Chapter 35
So far, it had been four days since Harry's battle in the chamber of secrets, and he ended up in a coma and had shown no signs of waking up. Emily and Miwa stayed at Stevenson Manor and doing the remainder of their schooling for the year at the ICW. The former was beside herself, more so than the latter, ever since she had arrived at the medical wing to see her brother. Emily broke down crying and cursed whoever did this with a vengeance and blamed them for nearly taking him away from her. Miwa was silently praying that he would wake up soon as she had missed him dearly. Harry was more than a rival, more than her best friend. He was her brother in all but blood. The two girls often visited once they completed their assignments. In Emily's case, whenever she looked at the state he was in, her heartbroken, she tried asking her dad what happened in the chamber, but he refused to tell her anything.
Both the Stevensons and Blacks took turns coming to the infirmary to see if there'd been changes in Hadrian's condition. Healer Winston kept them informed of his progress as his body was completely healed, except for a few scars on his front and back. Jack gave Severus special permission to come whenever he could under the pretense of him, offering suggestions on helping Harry regain consciousness. Nothing seemed to work. Byakko had stayed nearby as the tiger often rested at the foot of the bed or walked around the room.
Many of the healers came into the room and asked if they could be of any assistance but were denied as Chief Winston told them that only he would be the one to oversee the boy's treatment. Lord Black said had scared him into submission as he knew the Black Patriarch meant what he said and had a dangerous reputation. Arnold may have been the head healer for the agents of the ICW, but he doubted that he could last long against the older man. Rather than risk anything, I watched over and made sure that the boy was still alive. Stepping out of his office, he went to go check on his patient only to see that there had been no changes "if only this boy were elemental. It could probably…" he didn't get to finish.
"Harry is an elemental," Emily spoke up.
The older man widened his eyes "are you sure?" he asked, "if so, then what kind of elemental is he?"
This time Miwa stepped in "he's a fire, water, earth, lightning, and" she didn't get to finish as she was cut off.
"He's a lightning elemental," Winston said in astonishment. Both girls nodded. He then began to think, "maybe we can wake him up."
Emily's heart skipped a beat as she would be able to have her brother back soon "what do you mean?"
"Based on what I know, individuals who are lightning elementals require a large jolt of power. Not only can they rejuvenate their powers, but it can also shock them back to consciousness," he answered.
"Then we should at least try," Miwa said.
"It's not that simple," he stopped her "you see, elementals are hard to come by, and the ones that at are lightning are the rarest. I could shoot a lightning spell at him, but it could take more than eight hours, given his current state. Before we get any answers", he explained.
"I'm a lightning elemental," Miwa said, getting up from her seat and generated some lightning from the palm of her hand while looking him in the eyes.
Once again, the healer was surprised. "Wait, here! I need to speak with Captain Stevenson" he rushed out of the room and went all the way to the captain's office. Upon arriving, he knocked on the door "come in," he heard the voice of his captain and opened the door to see that the commander, along with Lord Black, and a woman he has never seen before.
"Captain Stevenson, Commander Taymore," he saluted to them, to which they responded in the same manner. "I have some news about the young Potter boy."
"He is awake," Jack enquired with a hopeful expression on his face.
The man shook his head "no, but I think I found a way to help him regain consciousness.
Arcturus stood up and narrowed his eyes. "How" he barked loudly.
"Since he is a lightning elemental, he will be able to absorb the power, and that could probably wake him up."
Taymore stood up "then proceed," he said. "I didn't know you were an elemental?"
"I'm no sir," Winston said, "but one of the girls in the medical wing claims to be a lightning user."
The Kawada girl," Arcturus said in realization, "tell her to begin at once," he ordered.
Winston looked at the captain, who gave a single nod. He saluted and exited the room.
Jack looked at Arcturus "you think it will be possible for her to wake Harry up?" he questioned.
"Possibly," Arcturus replied, "but before that, I'm going to Hogwarts and have some words with Dumbledore." Arcturus was livid at what he saw from the recording about his nephew dueling that murdering bastard. He was even angrier when he heard how Dumbledore knew about Voldemort's true nature and kept it quiet. Were it not for the fact of the others restraining him. He would take great pleasure in making the goat's life as miserable as possible.
Jack could tell what he was thinking and sympathized with him as he too wanted to dish out some justice on Dumbledore. "Let's just hope that it will be enough to wake him," he commented, then turned to Mrs. Schwarber "do you have what you need?"
"I do," she said with a small smile on her face.
"Then let's go to Hogwarts," he said with a sadistic smile. They all proceeded to leave the room.
(0^0)
Deep within Harry's mind, he was standing in a forest wearing his combat uniform but didn't have either of his wands nor any talismans. Yet, he couldn't sense any hostility or darkness around. It was all calm. The last thing he remembered was being in the chamber of secrets and collapsing in the arms of someone familiar. Pulling out of his thoughts, he started hearing a beautiful melody in the distance, with caution. He started walking forward, expanding his senses to detect anyone or anything. The deeper he ventured into the forest, the louder the music got, he didn't know where to go, but he felt like something was calling him. Cautiously approaching what seemed like the center of the forest, he got a clear vision of what was in front of him. There he saw a beautiful phoenix trilling a beautiful melody. When he came closer, the phoenix stopped trilling and looked directly at him.
Harry immediately recognized the phoenix as it was the one that came into the chamber and stopped the basilisk venom from killing him. The power he was sensing from the phoenix was on the same level as Byakko's. "I know you! You're the Vermillion bird. The Suzaku of the heavenly magical beast" he gave a respectful bow.
Once again, the bird trilled happily. "It would seem that Byakko made the right decision when he chose," it commented in English.
"Yes, you are indeed very gifted and care deeply for the magical world." The phoenix continued. "Though you may be young, I can see that you have the potential to help restore the magical world into balance. You have already taken the first step in a long journey."
Harry was a bit confused. "what do you mean?"
"Your battle with the basilisk and that demon. You fought not only for yourself but the life of an innocent and have avenged another by ending that creature. It was a fine, fine thing you did. You were aware of the consequences and the risk and accepted them. That is why I have chosen to aid you as well. But before that, I have to know something. What is the power that you desire:"
"The power I desire," Harry repeated. "I seek the power to protect the people I love and the weak," he said with determination in his voice.
Suzaku stared at him critically, observing him and reading his soul and his future, then trilled happily. "Worthy you may yet, be," he chirped and trilled again.
(0^0)
In the mortal world, Arcturus and the others and a few agents approached Hogwarts' gates, where they were met by the caretaker, Argus Filch. "Let us in squib. We have pressing business to discuss with the headmaster," he ordered.
"What business do you have here, Black" Argus said bravely, but inside he was terrified of the man.
Before Arcturus could speak, Alex came in "that is something we need to discuss with Dumbledore. Now you can unlock the gates, or we can come back later and bring an entire squadron of agents," he threatened.
Argus heavily paled and took out the key to unlock the gate to allow them in.
Arcturus sneered at the caretaker "lucky," he commented in disgust and sent a cold glare to Filch that almost made him pee himself. The caretake led them inside and made sure to stay away from Lord Black as he feared for his life. As they entered the castle, they were led to the great hall, where Argus opened the doors, making the entire great hall go quiet when they appeared in the entrance.
The students wanted to speak, but the presence of Lord Black, the commander of the ICW with a few of his agents and a woman they remembered to be Potter's Lawyer, rendered them speechless. Albus got up from his seat and put on his best grandfather persona, "commander Taymore" he greeted warmly, "what brings you here today?" in the inside, he was cringing as to why they were here.
Alex was not moved by Dumbledore's little act "cut the formalities, Dumbledore, I am here on official ICW business," he replied in a cold voice. "Care to explain why a twelve-year-old boy had to fight a basilisk in the castle you are in charge of" he pointedly looked at Dumbledore with narrowed eyes.
Albus went pale, and so did many of the other teachers and students. Harry Potter's fight a basilisk was shocking, to say the least, as the rumors about him going were true. Finding his voice, Albus spoke, "I assure you that I did not know that there was a basilisk in the school, and I had nothing to do with Harry going in there. If I may enquire on when he is returning to resume his education."
The commander didn't take his eyes off the man. "Hadrian is currently in a coma" his voice rang through the entire hall as people were whispering about the matter. Even his friends were wondering what happened, all the while Daphne paled considerably at what she heard. "What I want to know is why I was not informed of this matter from the start."
Albus gulped. "Believe me when I say that I would have informed you had I known. What was attacking the students."
"That is not the point" he glared at him. "Class-XXXXX magical creatures fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry and the ICW. Since the Ministry could not be trusted, I should have been informed. Thanks to your negligence of duty, Mr. Potter was bitten by a basilisk and is currently in a coma."
Daphne was now as pale as a ghost after what she heard. Harry was bitten. How was he alive? Her worry only increased. Many of the students paled considerably and started speaking louder than before about what had happened in the chamber. Alex took out his wand and fired a cannon blast to quiet them down.
"I hope your aware of the consequences you would be in should he have died" he paused for a moment. "The Ministry of Magic in Japan is already mad with the way Magical Britain tried to arrest the boy. If they found out that he was almost killed, that would mean trouble for the people. And you would have been responsible for creating an international incident. Not only that, but the other magical communities are also not too happy with us at the moment, and I don't blame them."
Taymore watched as Dumbledore went ghostly pale and secretly enjoyed watching as the supposed leader of the light being rattled. "Fortunately for you, he's still breathing. Now you will let me do my job" Alex turned to his agents. "I want this entire castle searched, no mistakes. If there is anything that poses a threat to the students, then take it back to the ICW and mark it."
"Yessir," all seven of them said and left the hall quickly.
"Alex," Dumbledore began but corrected himself after receiving a cold glare, "I mean, commander Taymore is this really necessary? The danger has passed, and the wards around the school have been strengthened."
"That may be good for you, but it is not for me. Due to your carelessness, I have to take action and inspect the school to ensure that this never happens again" no way going to take no for an answer.
Alex continued. "Now, take us to your office. We still have a few matters to discuss," he ordered.
Albus was positively seething at being ordered around but complied, nonetheless. Rounding the head table with Severus and Minerva behind him, he escorted everyone to his office. The trip there was dreadfully silent as they approached the gargoyle, and Dumbledore said the password "licorice wands." The staircase started moving, and they ascended the stairs until they got to the door and were allowed in. When everyone was inside, Albus closed the door and went to go sit behind his desk. Minerva and Severus were standing behind him, eyeing the others carefully. Severus was alerted to what was going on and what was happening to Hadrian at the current moment.
Arcturus was the first to speak "you brought this situation yourself," he began, "thanks to your recklessness, Hadrian has gone through more than what any student should have to go through in a single year."
Albus could tell that he was not pleased and looked about, ready to strike him in the face.
"Lord Black, I can only apologize for this mess. I swear I didn't know that a situation like this would get so out of hand. That was an obvious oversight on my part," Albus said. "We are just lucky that Harry survived the whole ordeal."
"No, you are lucky," Arcturus sneered at him. His voice was laced with anger "you say that this school is the best in the world, and yet you have allowed a basilisk to roam free. I have tolerated more than enough of your bullshit over the years, but this latest incident crosses the line. Because of your own inability to do your job, you nearly cost me one of the only few members of my family that I still have left."
"I assure you that there will be changes around Hogwarts" Albus tried to placate the man.
Arcturus narrowed his silvery-gray eyes at him. "That all you can say at the moment," he said condescendingly. "Were if the ICW never voted to send children to the schools from their native lands, Hadrian would never have left Mahoutokoro. I am very close to pulling him out of this school because you cannot seem to get your head out of your arse."
Albus paled at what Lord Black said as he was threatening to pull Harry out of Hogwarts. That was something he could not allow as he needed to guide the boy toward the path he needed him to be. The boy was supposed to be his champion of the light. Minerva had gasped at what Arcturus had said. This situation was terrible, very terrible.
"However, that is not for me to decide," Arcturus snarled. "Though, the rest of the family and I have decided to do this instead" he then turned to Jack and Mrs. Schwarber, motioning for them to come forward.
Jack took control of the situation "from now on," he spoke in a harsh voice. "You will no longer have any communications with Harry unless either myself or one of his guardians are present. If you want to talk to him, then you will wait four days and send either of you a letter informing us if you want to talk with him."
Albus stood up to his feet "no. I cannot allow that; there are things that I need to discuss with Harry that are for him to know." They were attempting to put more limitations on him.
"You do not have a choice anymore," Jack retorted. "In the time Harry has been at Hogwarts, you have called him to your office more than any other students, and each time, they do not end pleasantly. As for talking to him alone, that will not happen until he is of age; the same thing goes for his sister as well."
Dumbledore was about to protest, but the lawyer stepped in "this is for both of their safeties as they are minors, and you have no right's calling them to your office whenever you please. You will no longer refer to him by his given name nor the shortened version of it. Only by his family name will you address him."
She then reached into her briefcase and pulled out some documents "as you can see, his guardians have already signed the paperwork making this legal. Any infractions will result in your suspension as headmaster and time in Azkaban."
Albus paled even further, "is all this really necessary? The greater good of all" he didn't get to finish as he had just received a powerful punch breaking his nose courtesy of Arcturus Black. The Black patriarch had finally had enough of hearing Dumbledore dribble about the greater good and his excuses. Before Dumbledore could repair his bleeding nose, Arcturus grabbed him by his beard and pulled him till he was close to his face.
"Just so you know, that was a warning" Arcturus was furious "you have put my family through so much shite over the years, and now many of them are either dead or in Azkaban. I will be damned if I let you take any more of them. If I a younger man, I kill you slowly and painfully for what you have done and allowed to do. If he does not wake up soon, I will bring the House of Black's full weight down upon you. Got it!" he then ripped the beard right off Dumbledore's face making him scream in pain. Shocking everyone in the room.
Arcturus then turned his ire toward Minerva "the same goes for you bitch. If you ever use the memory of my nephew to manipulate the boy again, then I will drag you through hell" he then concluded by delivering another punch to Dumbledore's face and walked out of the office.
Mrs. Schwarber placed the documents on the desk "my secretary already has a copy of the information. Do not try anything cute, or the consequences will be dire."
Albus cleared the blood and fixed his nose. He idly wondered if things could possibly get any worse than this.
Commander Taymore resumed control. "I will require your Mr. Snape's help at the ICW."
Severus just sneered. "Why do I have to go back. I have already done all I can," he said with a sour expression.
"Severus," Dumbledore said in a tired voice, "if you please," he gestured for him to go with them.
The potions professor grumbled as he left the room with Minerva behind him. When they were out of the room, Dumbledore started cursing for what just happened. He had been blocked from ever speaking to Harry alone. Now he was going to have to find another way to mold the boy into his weapon. Looking at the documents, he found no loopholes, and he couldn't comment or discuss the matter with anyone else. This was bad and probably going to require some Firewhiskey for the night. Unknown to him the sorting hat and Phineas enjoyed the show as they had just witnessed Dumbledore being put in his place. This was absolutely entertainment at its finest.
Heading toward the schools' entrance, the adults made their way to leave the building, all except for Minerva, who went back to her office. Their movements stopped when they saw Daphne, Blaise, and Tracey at the entrance waiting for them. "What are you three doing?" Severus asked in a silk tone.
The three Slytherins looked at each other then looked back at him. Daphne was the one to speak, "Professor, we were wondering if we could go visit Harry at the ICW."
"Please, sir," Blaise came in, "we want to see how he is doing."
Severus twitched his lips "that is not for me to decide," he drawled. "You need to speak with either Lord Black or Lord Stevenson on the matter," he indicated to the two men next to him.
Arcturus just grunted while Jack spoke, "unfortunately, we can only allow one of you to come. If all three of you left, then your headmaster will have a fit and demand to know where you have been."
The three pre-teens looked at each other. Only one of them could go. Daphne stepped forward and replied, "I'll go," she volunteered.
Jack then looked at the other two "are the both of you ok with this?" he questioned and received a nod of confirmation. He then looked at Severus, who also have a nod "alright, come with us."
Daphne followed them to the apparition point and took Professor Snape's arm so she could side-along apparate, with a silent pop that they were gone. The next moment, they arrived at the ICW building entrance, where Commander Taymore let them in, and proceeded to the elevators. He pressed the number for the medical wing and told her to hang on to one of the handles. Daphne immediately grabbed it, and they were off to the designated floor.
When the elevator stopped, they exited the elevator and made their way to the infirmary. Arriving at the closed doors, Alex stopped her from entering. "Miss. Greengrass, you are going to have to wait out here. I need to have a word with the adults."
Daphne gave a respectful nod, and the adults went down the hallway to the commander's office. Daphne took a seat in one of the chairs and silently waited for their return. Spending the next ten minutes in the waiting room, she heard some crackling and saw some blue light coming from the door. Her curiosity got the better of her, and she peeked through the window, there she saw Miwa Kawada firing lightning out of her hands at something.
When the Japanese girl shuffled to the right, she saw who the lightning was hitting. The same messy black hair of the boy she considered to be a close friend, taking out her wand, she burst through the door and fired a freezing spell.
Miwa sensed that a spell was heading her way and dodged left and retaliated with a blasting spell. Daphne blocked it, and the two instantly narrowed their eyes at one another.
"Are you insane" Daphne yelled "what were you doing to him? He cannot even move to defend himself."
Miwa did not like how the blonde girl spoke to her and retorted, "I was doing what I was supposed to do" she then fired an aqua eructo at her.
Daphne charmed the water, turning it into ice, then transfigured it into ice shards that went straight to Kawada. She was not going to allow her to harm him.
Miwa slashed her wand and turned the ice projectiles into grains of sand. She then fired a bone-breaking curse at the girl, only to become angry when she cast a similar shield to the one Hadrian developed, sending the spell back to her. Miwa quickly conjured her a shield. "You got a lot of nerve using that spell. You stole that straight from Hadrian" she then fired a ball of electricity.
Daphne dodged and levitated one of the chairs and threw it at her. Miwa saw the chair coming and blasted the thing to smithereens.
They would have continued, but they were bound in rope. "What is going on in here" someone exclaimed. Looking towards the office, they saw what appeared to be the head healer having his wand trained on the both of them. Next to him was Emily Stevenson, who rushed to her brother, ignoring the older girls.
"Well, do any of you want to answer," the healer asked again, this time vanishing the ropes around the girls?
Miwa was the first to speak, "Greengrass attacked me from behind while I was trying to bring Harry out of his coma."
"That's not what it looked like to me," she angrily retorted. "You were firing lightning, which would have killed him. He has already suffered enough without you trying to make it worse."
"If there were a brain in that head of yours, then you would have done your research about elementals and the different abilities that come with each attribute. Besides, what would you know about healing an elemental" she angrily enquired. "From what I've heard, you're still at the beginners level, while I'm at the advanced level."
"I may be a beginner, but I know how to control my abilities. Unlike you!" Daphne replied.
"Oh really, then how about I show you how much control I have" Miwa raised her left hand and started creating lightning.
"Fine by me. Let's see what you can do" Daphne raised her own hand and created some ice in the palm of her hand.
Winston stepped forward before the two could start again. "There will be no more dueling in my infirmary," he said in an authoritative voice. The girls stared dagger at each other while they flicked their wands back into their holsters. The healer then waved his wand, vanished the grains from the room then, with another wave, summoned a device from his office. Walking toward his patient, he held the device in front of him and saw the needle move from red to yellow "Merlin, he is still alive. But he still needs a large burst of power. Kawada if you please," he gestured for her to continue where she left off.
Miwa fired different volts of lightning from her hand and impacted Harry.
"That's it. Keep going," he said, looking from the boy to his meter, which was slowly rising. "He is going to need more lightning," he commented.
Miwa upped the voltage, and the meter continued to rise. "Almost there. Keep it up for about another half hour," he instructed.
Daphne was watching with fright as the lightning kept striking him. Glancing at the meter, he saw that it was rising slowly but still in the yellow zone. Deciding to take the chance to help him, she flicked her wand out and shot lightning out of it.
"Greengrass, are you crazy," Miwa said in between voltages. "Just get out of here before you do any more damage."
Daphne glared at her. Meanwhile, Winston was watching with astonishment as the meter rose faster, "Miss. Greengrass, keep up that lightning," he ordered. "At this rate, he will hopefully wake up soon."
Both girls pushed as much lighting as they could, and fifteen minutes later, the healer spoke, "alright, that's enough. It's full" the girls immediately stopped and took a few minutes to catch their breaths.
"Alright, I need to step out for twenty minutes. While I am gone, there will be no more dueling in here," narrowing eyes at them. Both girls nodded, and he swept out of the room.
When he was gone, Emily sat by her brother's side, and Miwa stomped over to Daphne and pushed her shoulder to get her attention "you're a real piece of work, Greengrass. Had one of your spells hit him, it would have worsened his condition."
"Well, excuse me for looking after a friend," she replied. "And while we're on the topic, that much lightning would have killed him had he not been an elemental. Besides, you don't even know how he even ended up like this. What makes you think you're the only one who cares about him?"
"I've known him since we were both seven, which is way longer than you have known him," she angrily replied. "As for his condition, I know he was bitten by a basilisk and had to use an exceedingly high-level amount of magic. All to save a girl who should have known better than to write in a magical diary."
Daphne was about to speak again when she was cut off by a loud roar. The two bickering girls looked at the entrance and saw Byakko standing there.
"Can't I leave this room for 10 minutes, without something going to hell?" he asked as he came over to them. When he got close enough, he looked at Emily "how is he?"
Emily answered, "he's stable and is full of lightning. I just hope he will wake up soon."
"He is trying," Byakko said.
The next moment there was a bright flash of fire near one of the other beds. All three girls took their wands out and aimed them at the fire, while Byakko just gave a tiger-like smirk. The fire then manifested into a large red and gold phoenix; the bird was much larger than Fawkes and radiated a lot of power. The girls lowered their wands as they didn't think that the bird would cause any problems.
"Well, well, well, look who decides to make an entrance," Byakko said as he moved over.
"Nice to see you as well," Byakko snakingly said. "It has been quite some time, Suzaku."
The phoenix trilled happily, "that it has been. I missed you, my friend" he then flew over and landed on his head.
"I take it that these three," he gestured to the girls, "are close to the boy?"
"That they are," Byakko confirmed.
"Some of us more so than others," Miwa said, looking at Greengrass.
Daphne sent daggers at her "this coming from the girl who can't even make it to first place in her year. Turns out she is only second best!"
"At least I know…" Miwa didn't get far as Emily stepped in "can you two put a cork in it. My brother is resting and will not be happy should he find you two arguing," she chastised both the older girls.
She then spoke again, "my brother cares for the both of you, and who he decides to spend time with is his choice. Now shut it" she narrowed her own eyes at them.
Both Daphne and Miwa looked bowed their heads in shame.
Having waited a few more minutes, Emily took off her necklace and pulled out a key from her pocket, and activated the music. The soft melody soon enveloped the room. This was a melody that they both had become very fond of. "Please wake up," she said in a low voice.
At hearing the melody and his sister's voice, Harry began to stir. "I never thought I miss the smells of vanilla,nemophila menziesii, and cherry blossoms," he said, opening his eyes.
"Harry," the three girls shouted happily. Emily wrapped her arms around his neck. The other two wrapped him in an embrace.
"How long have I been out?" he asked as they let go save for Emily, who still had her arms around him.
Miwa responded, "you were in a coma for four days."
Harry's eyes opened wide "four days. Damn!" he then looked at his partner. "Suzaku, I owe you my life, thank you," he gave a respectful bow.
The phoenix trilled happily. Byakko jumped on the bed and licked his face while the phoenix nuzzled his face. He just chuckled. "I missed you to my friend" he rubbed his partner's head. "How do you feel, young one?" Byakko asked.
Looking at himself, he saw that he was in pajamas. "I feel fine all things considered," he answered. "I bet my dad is pissed."
"Your damn right, I'm pissed," the familiar voice of his father was heard. Byakko hopped off the bed, and Harry saw the faces of his adoptive father, his two uncles, and the commander.
Severus was the first to reach him and enveloped him in a hug "dear Merlin, your alive," he then let go, and his expression turned severe "you and I are going to have a long talk when he when we get home. You had no right's going into that chamber alone."
"I am sorry, dad" Harry looked at his lap.
"You will be when I get done, with you," Severus said in a silk voice. He then turned to the girls "you three out!" he said in a cold steel voice that indicated that there were to be no objections.
The girls shot a smile at Harry and left the room; Emily retrieved her necklace and turned it off.
"Is my patient awake yet," the voice of the healer was heard by the door.
"He is Arnold," Captain Stevenson said, "kindly check him over."
Winston came over and pulled out his wand. Severus moved away and allowed the healer to do his job. After a few minutes, he spoke, "your injuries have all been healed. However, the basilisk venom in your bloodstream will be inactive make the phoenix tears. Whatever happened in that chamber, you came back with more injuries than any of the other patients I have ever had to treat and is lucky to be alive," he conclusively said.
"Thank you, Arnold. We will take it from here," Taymore said.
"Alright," the healer said, "I'll be clocking out for the day and heading home. The other medical officers will be here shortly" he then walked out of the room.
Alex followed behind and warded the doors shut and added anti-eavesdropping charms to ensure their privacy. He then walked back over to the boy "we saw the recording about what happened in the chamber and have agreed that you have shown immense bravery when fighting that creature and that version of Voldemort. You should have come to us about the matter. It also raises several questions."
Jack spoke up next, "like how Arthur Weasley's daughter got her hands on that book?"
"Remember that elf, Dobby I told you about," Harry said. Jack gave a curt nod "the family he serves is the Malfoy's. The little guy warned me to stay away from Hogwarts; apparently, he disagreed with whatever Lucius would do. My guess is that Lucius was not pleased about that muggle protection act being passed and wanted revenge against Mr. Weasley."
"That sounds like Lucius," Severus gritted his teeth. "He puts on the mask of a respectable Lord, but it's all for show. Though, I don't think he knew that a basilisk was roaming the castle."
"Why do you say that" Jack enquired.
"Lucius is many things, but doubt he put his own son at risk," Severus said.
Arcturus looked at the two ICW agents "this should be more than enough evidence to send him to the dementors. That French goat put hundreds of kids in danger and almost got a girl killed."
"Unfortunately, I can't do that," Alex said in an irritated voice.
"What" Arcturus roared.
"Believe me, Arcturus, I would arrest that bastard myself," he spoke before the older man could say anything "however, there is no clear evidence that he put the diary in the girl's school bucket."
"Not to mention that he has the minister of magic in his pocket," Jack piped up. "Cornelius would do anything and everything he could to ensure that his biggest money supplier stays out of prison."
Arcturus snarled and flared his nostrils. At the moment, he wanted nothing more than to end that miserable bastard's life for what he almost did to his nephew. "Fine, since I can't kill the bastard, I believe I may have a way to rattle him." There was no way in hell that he was going to allow Malfoy to get away with what he tried to do. If he couldn't kill the bastard, then he was undoubtedly going to cause problems for him.
"Uncle," Harry said, pulling him out of his thoughts, "I know how bad you want to get even with him, but keep in mind as long as he thinks I'm on his side. We can still get information out of him."
Arcturus just grumbled. "Fine, I won't hurt him. Much!"
Harry knew better than trying and stopping his uncle when he was like this "when you meet with him can you get Dobby free? That elf tried to protect me in his own way, and that is a debt worth repaying."
"I will do what I can. Now new business, do you want to release the recording to the public?" he attempted to change the conversation topic.
Harry thought for a few minutes, "do it. The people need to know what's been going on. I may have proven my innocents at the wizengamot, but I was still on the receiving end of many questionable eyes. This way, I can throw it back in their faces."
"But, I have one request," he said. "Nobody from the Daily Prophet writes about it. I don't trust them to send Skeeter to write about what happened. Knowing her, she just spouts a bunch of lies."
"You leave that to me," Black said. "In the meantime, we will let the international press release the footage."
Alex stepped in "that shouldn't be a problem. Is there anything else you would like?"
Harry had to think for a minute; his thoughts drew to the Weasley girl. The girl should have known better than to go writing into that diary. Hell, she grew up in the magical world and should have been able to tell the difference between a dark object. However, she did come from a poor family, and considering how her brothers are, he could see how Voldemort could play on her emotions and manipulate her. Then he remembered that he destroyed her wand. Coming to a decision, he spoke.
"Did Weasley receive any treatment from the object controlling her?"
"You want to help the girl, who is responsible for painting a target on your back and that you nearly killed over," Arcturus questioned the boy.
"If I had it my way, she is expelled by now," Severus said.
Harry let out a breath "while I have no love for the girl. I think she suffered enough as it is, and I did destroy her wand" he shrugged his shoulders. "Look, just send her to some healers and get her mind and magical core check, and I'll foot the bill for a new wand for her. She deserves that much."
Jack just sighed "alright, we'll take her to St. Mungo's tomorrow and take her to get a new wand. Shouldn't cost more than 8 to 9 galleons for the wand."
Harry gave the nod in agreement.
Suzaku introduced himself and announced that he will be aiding Harry in the years to come, which shocked everyone in the room. No one was more shocked than Harry as another god was seeking to help him. Turning his head toward Byakko, the two silently engaged in a conversation where Byakko explained about his feathery companion and what part of the magical world he ruled over. After 15 minutes of debate, Harry formed a pact with Suzaku, the phoenix announced that he would be his guide. From now on.
"One last thing before we leave you for the day," Alex said. "Since you saved her life and fended off a basilisk. You're more than likely going to receive an Order of Merlin for your bravery. By international laws, it is to be given to you by the head of your native land, and you are entitled to one wish."
"I will not accept anything from the ministry," he dejectedly, Harry said cutting him off.
"We figured that," Alex resumed, "however the alternative is that the ICW gives you the award."
Harry sighed in relief. "ICW, please," he requested.
That received a chuckle from Taymore. "I'll handle it, don't worry. And your wish."
Harry replied, "I like some time to think about that if you don't mind."
Alex chuckled happily "that's more than fair." He then made a move to leave the room. Jack gave Harry a smile. "I have to get back to work, but I'll be back later," he said and went as well.
When the two agents left the room, the girls walked back in with the two other adults, and they all agreed to keep Hadrian company until they had to go. The rest of Harry was checked over by some of the other medical officers, and after what seemed like forever, they concluded that he would be free to return to school tomorrow morning. Eventually, it came time for Severus to take Daphne back to Hogwarts, and after receiving a hug from them, they were gone leaving Harry alone with Arcturus, Emily, and Miwa. The two girls wished they could stay, but they were asked to leave by one of the healers and grudgingly left.
(0^0)
The following day Harry soon found himself in his two uncles and the commander who would escort him back to Hogwarts. The healers had tested him again to see if anything was wrong with him, and after going through some examinations, they released him. As they were leaving the building, Arcturus informed him that Dumbledore now had many restrictions on him, meaning that if he wished to speak Harry, he must send a letter to one of his guardians and wait four days. Harry asked if the same rules extended to Emily which the older Black answered yes. He then elaborated how he punched the goat twice and ripped off his beard, making Harry laugh.
Reaching the apparition point, Harry took his uncle's arm and was apparated to Hogwarts. The next moment they stood in front of the gates, they were quickly opened by Argus, who escorted them to the castle. Arriving inside, Arcturus delivered a hard punch to the caretaker breaking his nose and a tooth that sent him tumbling to the ground. Truthfully, he had been wanting to punch the squib since he laid a hand on his nephew. Since there were witnesses around, he couldn't curse him, so he settled for hitting the idiot. Ignoring the whimpering man, they walked into the great hall where everyone averted their eyes away from the crystals and stared in astonishment. Harry silently wondered what they were watching and turned his head to the viewing screen, there he saw the recording of his battle with the basilisk and Voldemort.
Many of the teachers were staring in amazement. Professor Flitwick was bouncing in his chair as he was exceedingly impressed with the boys' skills in battle charms. Babbling was beaming with pride at his ability to use runic clusters and talismans to an exceptional degree. Ever since the boy had shown her how to use talismans, she had been determined to try it herself. Throughout trying them out, she found it more difficult as she wasn't using her wand but her own magic as a focusing point. McGonagall and Dumbledore were highly impressed with his level of battle transfiguration as he was able to perform spells that were difficult for most in their NEWT years. Dumbledore had to grudgingly admit that his skills in Alchemy were commendable. No one couldn't have been prouder than Professor Black as she beamed with pride at how he conducted himself in the chamber. He was not a boy. No, he was a warrior.
The students resumed watching the footage, and when they saw him merge with Byakko, they thought it was entirely out of a fantasy book and thought they were dreaming. What shocked them next was the fact that he changed the sword of Gryffindor into Excalibur. When they were kids about how King Arthur had a sword, they told stories believed to have disappeared years ago. Turns out it was the sword of Gryffindor the entire time. They saw as he told Fawkes to bring the basilisk to him and watched as he jabbed it through its mouth killing it, while also infecting him with its venom. Madam Pomfrey paled as a sheet and gasped as the boy had been poisoned with the most dangerous venom in the world. No one dared to look away when he was healed by a phoenix who cried into his arm, and he finally stabbed the diary in Weasley's possession and watched as the dark lord's sixteen-year-old form explode into nothing.
When the footage stopped, everyone looked at him, sporting mixed feelings. Harry took a breath and decided to get things over with sooner than later "as you all just witnessed, I did, in fact, go into the chamber of secrets where I was almost killed. Not my best idea. However, I am fortunate to be alive, and that is something that I am thankful for. Many of you here have targeted me and accused me of attacking the students, even the members of my own house" he glared at the Gryffindors. The house of lions looked down in shame.
He continued. "Even after I was cleared of all the charges against me. Many of you have didn't believe me, especially after I gave a magical vow. Newsflash people know one can lie under a magical vow once it's been given. However, a few of you have stood by and believed in me. So, I am grateful to you. That said, I have some beef with my so-called 'housemates.' You, the people in the house of lions, are a disgrace. When I was targeted by the other students, only a few of you stood by me. The others were just happy to toss me away like a rag doll. Even though I brought in the most house points and helped bring the quidditch team to victory. You still turned your backs' on one of your own. How pathetic that the so-called house of brave couldn't even find the courage to stand up for one of their own."
The House of Gryffindor now looked utterly miserable. Potter was right; he did a lot for them, and many of them just turned their backs on him when they should have protected him.
"As the Hogwarts by-laws state, if the majority of the person's house has ostracized the without any proof. Then he or she is well within their right's to dish out the punishment of their choosing," he spoke in a firm tone.
Albus immediately stood up from his chair "come now, Mr. Potter, is this really necessary? What you went through this year was not pleasant, and while you have a right to be angry with your housemates. I'm sure that they will never do it again. Please, I insist that you forgive them for what they did to you, and everything can go back to normal" he didn't want the Gryffindors to lose any more credibility within the school. Already their reputations were being shown in a bad light, and now that Harry had proven what he said to be accurate, he wanted to punish his housemates. He was already angry that he was barred from talking to the boy alone, but now he had to worry about making sure that the reputation of Gryffindor sinking even further.
"That might work you, headmaster, but not for me, and the By-laws are absolute. If you want to change them, then you need to have all the staff members and the board of governors agree to the changes," Harry spoke in a severe tone.
"Now, let's see. How shall the house of Gryffindor be punished?" he asked in a questioning tone. "I could quit the quidditch team and let the Slytherins win the cup next year" the Slytherins already liked that idea and were sporting giant smiles. "However, my fellow quidditch teammates stood by me and never once attacked me. To deny them a chance at the cup will be cruel, and punishing them for the entire house's sins will be unfair. So that's a no!" the Gryffindor quidditch team sighed in relief.
"Oh, I have an idea," he said with a big grin on his face. "The number of points that I have earned this year and the points I might earn in the future will be divided between the houses of Ravenclaw and Slytherin, and whatever points Gryffindor house loses gets doubled from now on." Everyone stared at him with shocked expressions on their faces. The Gryffindors looked like they were about to cry as they would be losing a lot of points and were not likely to win the house cup this year.
Harry then turned to face the head of Hufflepuff. "I would have included the house of badgers, but considering the way, the majority treated me this past year. I am not going to be so nice. That said, only three of them stood by me: Cedric Diggory, Susan Bones, and Hannah Abbot. You three were above fair with me and have never once attacked or accused me of being responsible for the attacks. That has earned my gratitude and my respect, thank you." The three hufflepuffs gave him a warm smile that he returned.
"Now, as for the fools who were named at the wizengamot by the deceased Lord Morrison," he spotted a few of them and saw that they were pale as they were scared as to what he would demand from them. "As much as I would like to have you idiots punished with another heavy fine. None of you is worth the effort. Consider that merciful as I have bigger things to deal with than waste time dealing with you all. However, should any of you try to accuse me of something like this again, then you had better hope that I am in a good mood," he warned them.
Up at the head table, Professor McGonagall stood up. "Mr. Potter, are you content with your decisions?" she asked in a defeated voice. The boy was absolutely correct in what he said about the by-laws allowing him to punish his house.
"I am, professor" he glared at her.
Bowing her head in shame, she spoke again, "as the head of Gryffindor house, I Minerva McGonagall hereby transfer all the points Mr. Potter has earned this year and all the points he may earn in the future to be divided between the Houses of Ravenclaw and Slytherin." The house points from the house of Gryffindor dropped significantly and split between the eagles and the snakes. That had fallen the Gryffindors to fourth place.
Albus looked as if he wanted to cry as this was turning into a nightmare. "Is that all, Mr. Potter?" he silently hoped that the boy was done.
"That's all I want" Harry took a seat at the end of the table next to the female chasers. "Commander, the floor is yours."
Albus looked at Commander Taymore and was hoping just to end things for the day. Oh, he was going to be drinking heavily today when he got back to his office.
Taymore stepped forward. "Ginevra Molly Weasley, you are to come with us and leave school" everyone was now looking at the pale youngest Weasley, who looked like she was about to cry. Shakingly, she got up and went to the commander of the ICW. "Miss. Weasley, you are not in trouble. We are just taking you to got to St. Mungo's for treatment and then to Diagon Alley to get you a new wand."
The red-headed girl's eyes lit up with tears. She was not going to be expelled from Hogwarts but then remembered that neither she nor her family could afford for her to see a healer, let alone get a wand to replace the one that was destroyed. "Um, sir, my family can't afford any of that," she said in a low voice.
Alex was about to speak but was cut off by Arcturus "not that you deserve any of this. My nephew has agreed to foot the bill for a new wand and sessions with a mind healer. Be glad he is more lenient with you than I am because if I were younger, then I would end your life on the spot for all the trouble you caused" his sliver eyes met her brown ones, and his harsh voice was enough to almost make her cry.
"Uncle," he turned his head to the boy. "There is no need to scare her; she's already suffered enough."
Ginny turned to him and looked at him as if he was her knight in shining armor. He not only saved her life but was agreeing to pay for her medical bill and a new wand. She already thought of how terrific Harry was, but now she saw him as even more. He was sticking his neck out for her and assumed that she may have been unique to him. Ginny even started thinking about her future with him.
"Also, I'm getting this out of the way," he declared. "I, Hadrian James Potter, hereby release Ginevra Molly Weasley from the life debt she owes me. So, mote it be" when he finished, she was enveloped in a white light that dissolved her of her life debt.
"Come along, Miss. Weasley," Jack spoke, "your father is already waiting for us" he then led her and the others out of the room.
The entire great hall was silent, with no one able to say anything, including the quiet staff members. No one seemed to care that the headmaster left the room in a heartbeat and retreated to his office. Some of the students wanted to ask Potter why he would go into the chamber? But they couldn't find the strength to do so. The one's that he spared for happy that they were not being punished even further as their parents gave them a severe tongue lashing. The fine they had to pay had cost them quite a bit of money, and the parents were not pleased and would be punishing their kids when they got home.
By the name of Percy Weasley, a Gryffindor got up from his seat and motioned for his siblings to follow him. The twins were on their feet and had to forcibly get Ron to his feet while eating. The brothers made their way to the end of the table, where Potter was just about to get up and leave.
"Harry, please wait," Percy said.
The raven-haired boy stopped in his tracks and turned around to see the four male Weasley coming his way. "What do you four want?" he drawled in a cold voice.
"We just wanted to say thank you for saving our sister," Percy said tersely, "and we appreciate you paying for a new wand and her medical bill."
"Harry, we are also," Fred started off.
"Very sorry about what you were" George took over.
"Forced to endure. This year." Fred finished.
"We know that we are not your favorite people," George said
"But we want you to know that we are extremely grateful," Fred spoke.
"For what you are doing, despite what has been going on," they said in unison.
"Just be better brothers to your sister, and that will be it" he whirled around and headed for class.
Harry went to his charms class with Professor Flitwick until he stopped in his tracks when he sensed multiple magical signatures coming toward him. Turning halfway around, he saw that Blaise, Tracey, and Daphne were coming his way. Blaise gave him a brotherly hug, and Tracey went to hug herself when he let go.
Blaise was the first to speak, "you have got to be the craziest son of a bitch I have ever met in my entire life," he commented, only to receive a slap in the back of the head courtesy of Tracey.
Harry let out a chuckle "knowing you, I will take that as a compliment."
All the humor died when Daphne grabbed a handful of his robes and brought him closer "this is not funny. You have nearly killed" the look of rage on her face was clearly present, but also Harry could see that she was genuinely concerned for him.
Harry had to admit that he was touched that she seemed to care so much and was thinking of a way to calm her down "easy sapphire. I didn't know you cared that much; perhaps I should get in trouble more often," he joked.
Daphne was not amused by his humor and slapped him in the arm.
"Ouch! Come on, woman; haven't I been hit enough this month?" he asked. "Besides, I'm going to be in for it when I get home. My guardians are less than pleased with me at the moment."
Blaise was laughing and let out a whistle "sucks to be you, man," he resumed laughing, only to stop when Daphne turned her head to him and sent a heart-stopping glare his way. The poor boy had to take a few steps back as he did not want her anger directed at him.
Daphne then turned back to Harry and released her grip on him. "There is something else you guys need to know. "I'll tell y'all in there" he emphasized the last word to indicate where they were going to meet and hustled to his charms class.
"That was the smart thing to do," Blaise snickered as he started to leave the corridor. The girls soon followed and went to their first class for the day.
When Harry made it to charms, he opened the door. He saw that no one was there and relished in the silence. Taking a seat in the first row, he closed his eyes for a bit and engaged in a mental conversation with Byakko and Suzaku. Spending the next few minutes talking with the gods, Harry soon sensed the presence of the half-goblin professor coming into the room.
"Oh, Mr. Potter, welcome back," the tiny professor squeaked when he saw him.
"Thank you, sir," Harry responded, "I hope things haven't been too boring for you since I've been gone."
Flitwick just gave a jovial laugh "it's the end of the year so, I've been keeping busy with marking essays and prepping the students for their end-of-year exams."
Harry had grown to like the tiny professor and could see that he definitely earned his reputation as a sorcerer. Despite his physical appearance Filius Flitwick was no slouch with a wand and could probably give even the elite duelists a run for their money.
"Anyway, I was wondering if I could ask you something before class starts," Filius composed himself.
"By all means, ask away," Harry said.
Flitwick cleared his throat. "Those spells you used in the chamber of secrets were highly exceptional. I would say that they were on par with the elites, and I can clearly see that you have been trained very well. While I understand that some of those spells were family magics, three of them caught my attention. That shield you used with the yellow in it, along with that fire shield you conjured, and how did you make the fire columns come up? I have never seen anything like them before in my life."
"I created those three myself," Harry replied. "The shield is purely for defensive purposes, those columns of fire were meant for offense, and that shield you saw with the whips were meant for offensive and defensive purposes."
"Brilliant," Filius squeaked, "to think that a twelve-year-old boy was capable of spell crafting."
"Well, my family does have a history of composing warriors," Harry happily said.
The goblin just laughed. "That y'all do," Filius agreed. "If I may ask, can you come by after your classes are over with for the day and demonstrate them?"
"That seems alright, with me," Harry replied, "can we meet on the quidditch pitch instead?"
"We can indeed," the half-goblin said. Then the bell rang, and the students started coming in. When they saw Harry, they froze in place as they were having mixed feelings about him, while some were glad that he had no desire to attack them or was innocent of the whole debacle. They were still afraid of him, especially after they saw how he dueled in the chamber.
The students handed in their assignments, and Filius went through some of the spells they expected to see on their OWLs. Many were purely tired and just ready to finish the year off by taking their exams and going home. When class was over, they were given more homework, and Flitwick gave Harry the assignments that he missed out on while he was 'indisposed. The rest of the day passed quickly, with Harry catching up with all the classes he had missed. While it didn't deter him, he already completed the syllabus for all of his classes and went over the syllabus for next year.
True to his word, he met Professor Flitwick on the Quidditch pitch, where he could sense that his dad and aunt in the stands were watching them. Harry asked if they could be present, and Severus immediately agreed as he was still not happy with what he did by going into that chamber alone. Cassie was there and told him that there was something they needed to talk about after dinner. Both of the adults were under the disillusionment charm watching as he began performing the spells he used in the chamber.
Filius was giddy at the spells he had witnessed. The boy explained that each of them took a while to get a handle on. Filius magic was more attuned to charms with transfiguration following after, so they began with the shielding charm he developed. Harry explained that the shield could deflect the person's spell right back at them with much more speed and power. To demonstrate, Harry asked him to fire a stunner at him. The half-goblin agreed and fired a stunning spell and was in awe as the boy managed to send the spell back with more incredible speed and power than before. Next was the attack and defensive spell; Harry explained that it was more of a battle transfiguration spell and demonstrated it using water this time. Instead of fire, to cast the spell and keep it up, the caster elegantly moved his wand, almost like a dance. Last was the offensive spell. It involved shooting different variations like fire, water, earth, lightning, air, and ice from beneath the ground and making them erupt.
Harry was impressed by the fact Filius was able to get a hold of two of the three spells but could tell that the professor was going to test them out in his free time. Most likely during the summer. When they were done, Filius awarded him 80 points for not only creating the spells but for taking the time to teach him. Automatically the points were split in half between the snakes and eagles.
When they were done, they headed to the great hall for dinner. Harry sat at the Slytherin table with his group of friends, where they engaged in a conversation. Adrian, Aaron, Ulrich, and Nicole congratulated him on his success in the chamber of secrets, but he waved it off as it was careless of him to go alone. The majority of the Slytherins have grown fond and accustomed to him sitting with them, save for a few who were not happy about the matter but said nothing. Some of the other students came by and asked how he could merge with his true familiar. That was a topic he wanted to avoid, so he just said it's a unique ability only exclusive to those who have true familiars. He proceeded to divert the questions like what he intended to do with the remnants of the basilisk by saying he didn't know. He used the spells in the chamber; all he said was that they were from Japan, his different family magics, and the three he created.
The most annoying came from Granger with Weasley behind her "where is the sword of Gryffindor?" she asked him.
He just shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know where it is" it was the truth as he didn't know where the sword was.
"What do you mean, you don't know where it is you vanished it away," Ron asked, thinking he grew a second head in not knowing where he vanished the sword.
Harry groaned. "Listen, Weasley, I don't know where the sword is. If you want to ask anyone, then ask the sorting hat."
"You're the one that vanished it, so you should know," Ron replied, "also, what did you do to make it change like that?"
"That is a family matter," he said in a bored tone. "Now, can you two leave? I already have enough to think about without having to deal with you two."
"We are not leaving until you tell us where you sent the sword of Gryffindor" Hermione crossed her arms around her chest. "That sword belongs to the school, and you need to return it to the headmaster," she said with an air of superiority.
"Bugger off Granger," Daphne said, noticing his irritation "he doesn't have to justify anything to either of you. Besides, even if he did know where it was, he has no obligations to give it to Dumbledore. He may be the headmaster, but he has no claim to the sword. You don't see him going to the Smith's and demanding that they hand over what Helga Hufflepuff had to him."
"Shut it, snake," Ron snapped "this matter does not concern you."
"Very, original," she drawled and rolled her eyes. "And besides, you two should be showing some gratitude, Harry not only stepped in to clean up the mess the headmaster failed to do, but he is also helping your sister by buying her a new wand and paying for her sessions with the mind healers. That is more than what she deserves all things considered for what she put him through."
Weasley was now red in the face. The entire Slytherin house was sending death glares at the two Gryffindors. While some didn't like Harry, they hated Granger and Weasley even more. Ron was about to speak again but was cut off by the arrival of Professor Snape.
"What is going on over here?" he asked in a silk tone with a sour tone.
Hermione was the first to speak "professor we were asking, telling Harry that he should return the sword of Gryffindor to the headmaster, but he claims that he doesn't know where it is. Greengrass said that we should be grateful that he killed the basilisk and is helping Ginny by getting her a new wand and sending her to a mind healer, even though she was already checked over." Ron immediately agreed with her.
Snape looked from the two Gryffindors to Harry then back to them. "Alright, Granger, you clearly need to take a look at Hogwarts by-laws, the headmaster may be in charge of this school, but he has no claims to the sword itself. As for you two," he glared at Weasley, "you two should be glad that neither of you was killed by that snake. Shame things were starting to become peaceful around here. Now we have to suffer more of your insufferable miss know-it-all attitude. I swear ever since you came to this school, things have been unbearable."
Hermione now had a few tears rolling down her eyes after what he said to her.
He then looked at Weasley, "and you and your brothers should be grateful that Potter hasn't decided to press charges against your sister for what happened. By all right's, she would have been expelled if I had a say in the matter. Luckily for you, he" Severus gestured to Harry "is more merciful than I am. Obviously, your parents neglected to teach you anything about gratitude, among other things. Now get back to your seats; you two have already lost your house 15 points for causing a disturbance, don't make me give you detentions."
"But Potter is just going to hoard the sword for himself," Weasley complained.
"Congratulations! Mr. Weasley, you just bought yourself detention for the next two nights with Mr. Filch," Severus sneered at him. "Would you like to double it?"
Ron was almost purple with rage and had to be dragged back to the Gryffindor table by a teary-eyed Hermione.
Severus left the great hall with his capes billowing, leaving many of his Slytherins were snickering at the way he just put Granger down. Harry and some of his friends didn't laugh as they just chose to go back to their conversations.
(0^0)
After dinner, the four friends found themselves with Severus and Cassiopeia. True to his word, Harry was about to tell them what the big news was. His dad already had a feeling what he was going to show them; that and Cassie apparently made a significant discovery. Cassie was the first to start things off. "I believe what's been making Professor McGonagall act the way she's been lately."
Hadrian snorted. "Please, that woman is nothing but a lap dog who is too happy to kiss Dumbledore's hairy butt."
Cassie narrowed her eyes at him "despite your feelings toward her. Something was off about her."
Hadrian just sneered at the implication, "what did you find?"
She replied, "Minerva has been subjected to multiple memory charms, along with a loyalty potion and a quick to anger potion directed at you."
Harry wanted to burst out laughing, but he saw the seriousness in her eyes and knew she was not kidding. "How did you find this out, and who drugged her?"
"Only a select few people like Severus, Dumbledore, and myself are capable of that level of mind manipulation," she answered.
Tracey came in "you think Dumbledore altered her memories and drugged her to turn her against Harry. Isn't that a bit farfetched? I know the old coot cannot be trusted and has a knack for getting what he wants but do you really think he would go this far?"
"Believe what you want, Miss. Davis," Severus said, "but keep in mind Dumbledore has no qualms against doing underhanded things to get his way. How long has she been under his influence?" he asked Cassiopeia.
"Hard to say," she shrugged her shoulders, "though if I had to make a guess. I have to say she's been under it since the second half of last year. Judging by how much I was able to find in her system."
"Ok, so we concluded that Professor McGonagall has been drugged," Daphne stepped in. "But how were you able to find this out?"
"When she was in my office a few days ago. Minerva accidentally cut herself; when she leaned against the wall, some of her blood fell on the wall. I took it analyzed it for anything out of the ordinary. Honestly, I was just as surprised when I got the results myself."
"Any chance you can fix her" Harry enquired "no offense, Aunt Cassie, but I hope you don't expect me to just roll over and be nice to her. Especially not after what she put me through or give her information that she could pass onto the goat."
Her eyes softened a bit. "I understand your feeling Harry, and while you may not have to like her, I will ask that you keep your distance from her. Until I can get her fixed."
"Fine by me" he was not ready to just go and forgive the woman. Not so quickly, she was going to have to earn his forgiveness. "When can you have her fixed?"
"I will probably have to do it when school is over," she said. "This way, she can be away from Albus long enough for me to do my job."
Harry deflated and took a seat on the couch. This had turned out to be one hell of a school year; massaging his temples, he leaned back in his chair.
Tracey turned her head in his direction "so, Harry, what did you want to tell us that was so secret?"
Taking a breath, he got back to his feet and faced them. "Alright, but I am going to need you all to remain calm."
Everyone sucked in a breath and readied themselves.
Harry undid his robes and started unbuttoning his shirt, unaware that he made Daphne blush at seeing his developing chest. When it was utterly undone, he took it off and let Byakko out of his tattoo form, along with a tattoo of a phoenix that emerged from his back.
"Everyone, I like you to meet the Vermilion bird, Suzaku," he gestured to the phoenix resting on his shoulder.
"Greeting's everyone," the phoenix trilled happily.
Everyone was staring in disbelief as the phoenix just spoke in English like Byakko. Daphne had gone entirely red when she saw Harry's entire upper body. She already thought he was handsome and labeled as one of the best-looking guys in the whole school but seeing him like this completely shut her brain off. That was until she shook her head and composed herself. She saw a few new scars on his body before diverting her eyes to the phoenix.
"I-is he a g-god?" Blaise asked shakingly.
"That I am mortal," Suzaku trilled in confirmation.
Blaise then looked at Harry "you are a magnet for attracting dangerous creatures," he said jokingly.
Harry held his hands up "hey, it's not like I ask for weird things to happen to me" he glared at him.
"Anyway," Suzaku began speaking, diverting the attention away from the two boys back to him. He then explained how he had chosen to be Harry's guide as he continues to go through life and help restore order. After giving them an overview of why he was here, they were all silent except Severus, who already knew about the matter and was not happy.
(0^0)
Over at the Ministry, things were in complete chaos, and Cornelius looked like he had seen a better day. Earlier today, there was a riot in the atrium full of angry adults, and if that weren't bad, members from the other magical communities were outraged when they saw the morning news report. It was bad enough that the Indian Ministry put a suspension on trade goods but now so did four others like the Macusa branch, the Chinese, Japanese, and the Oceania ministry have all put a suspension on goods from their sovereign lands. If that weren't bad enough, some of the other countries demanded that Magical Britain pay back some of the debts it owed them. Right now, all Cornelius wanted to do was go home, lock himself in his room, and cry. He needed to do something to get back into the people's good graces. Perhaps the International dueling competition would be a good start. From what he heard from Ludo Bagman, Potter had signed up for both divisions this year.
If Cornelius thought he had it bad, it was nothing compared to what Delores Umbridge was receiving. She lost so much respect and fear within the Ministry many of the workers she used to walk on were now standing up to her. Delores positively hated the Potter brat with every fiber of being, and when she saw him losing against a basilisk, she was filled with sick pleasure at seeing him in pain. But the brat managed to come out of the chamber alive and was once again the hero. She tried to get him punished for being an unregistered animagus, but his lawyer arrived and showed that he had already been registered with the ICW. One day she would get that brat back for all the trouble he had caused her and the Ministry, but that was easier said than done as the boy was to protect, and she feared both his uncles. Especially, Lord Black, he might have been in his advance years, but the power and respect he commanded made her shrink in fear.
Madam Bones was currently in her office drinking a bottle of scotch while looking over the arrest reports her Aurors made. Today was hell, in her opinion; not only was there a colossal riot this morning that her Aurors had to push back but, Cornelius and Delores were trying their patience. The infuriating toad wanted to arrest Harry for being an animagus, but after it was proven that he was registered, the woman demanded that the boy be brought in for questioning. It had taken well more than two hours to tell her that it would be a wrong move and judging by the state the British Ministry was in at the moment. That would only cause them more problems. Deep down, she enjoyed watching Delores lose her cool and be beaten; the ghostly paled minister was an added bonus as she had no love for either of them. Placing the last of the reports in her filing cabinet, she took a swig of the last of her drink and made to go home for the night.
A/N: Daphne and Miwa had their little spat. Both girls were concerned for Harr's well-being but didn't communicate how he was being treated. Harry has awakened from his coma and gained a new ally. The second of the Heavenly magical beast, the Suzaku. I will be the first to admit that Harry should not have been the one to go in the chamber, especially not engage in a battle between a thousand-year-old basilisk. Arriving back at Hogwarts, he has decided not to press charges against Ginny as he felt sorry for her. I know many of you will be disappointed that she wasn't expelled, but I believe she has suffered enough. Also, I still need her in this story.
Dumbledore is now pissed that he can no longer talk to Harry without having one of his guardians present. Serves him right, in my opinion. The amount of damage that he causes and has allowed to happen, would any of you let your children be alone with him?
As for the Minerva problem, she was indeed drugged and charmed into being against Harry courtesy of Dumbledore. Let's face it, Dumbledore is a manipulative man and has manipulated certain aspects of people's lives. The first example would be Harry; he placed him with his muggle relatives, knowing that he would not be happy and mistreated but did nothing to help. All he did was give an apology and some 'pretty words,' like any justifications to meddle with the boy's life. On top of that, he waited until after he had just lost Sirius to tell him about the prophecy. That not cool! The second example was Sirius. After Peter was discovered to be alive, he did nothing to get him a trial. He had all of summer and Harry's entire fourth year to get him a trial; hell, he was a chief warlock. He had the power. If he really cared about Harry, why didn't he attempt to make his life better? Going to Hogwarts to get away from the Dursleys may sound good, but it wasn't as grand as Harry had to endure a lot of shit from the magical world.
Next Chapter: The award ceremony happens at the ICW.