AUTHOR NOTE
Dennisud: Oh yeah this moved quick as I didn't want to rewrite the entire book just hit the highlights that served to set the foundation for the later ideas. I sorta needed to lay the concrete pad to put the doublewide in to use a construction analogy. So fear not there will be more to this universe coming at some point. I kinda look at each story, or story group, taking place in the same parallel universe. Retold will be one universe and I have ideas that span clear out to the end of time just we have to get there first by laying the ground work with this humble little short. That and I think I have more fun writing the little quick bites and not the huge Stephen King Epic novellas. That being said what comes out of my head is what comes out of my head. Anyhow thanks for appreciating this.
Timekeeper: Ahh yeah. Sadly that is true. We see a lot of teen mothers here in valleys of Appalachia. Life can happen rather fast.
As for Dan and Emma. I personally chose them as a homage if you will to the beautiful actors who played the Harry and Hermione roles. Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson played the roles really well and grew up with those characters in such a way that its hard to think of anyone else in that role. As for the relationships between the characters in this story yeah there has been some heavy forshadowing going on and to quite Stan Lee give yourself a Noprize prize for figuring that out. (Old Marvel comics from the eighties) And yeah the encounter between Luna and Harry was on the one level absolutely innocent and on the other rather erotic. I was going for that. And yes getting him away from the Dursleys was an important change I wanted to make sure got emphasized. What the repercussions will be is going to come home to roost for good and for bad much more later. As for the Blood wards I may have to take the Noprize back as I tried to hint that the magic of them was in him, not the house, not his aunt but him. That Lily and her friends worked together to protect their sons (Neville has the same wards but they did not get activated as The big V went after harry not him.) But as they say that is a story for another day.
Anyhow thanks everyone and hope to see you in the sequel(s)
So how has the dance tutoring been going Harry?" Hermione asked carefully.
"Uh its been going okay. I think I can dance without injuring anyone now."
Hermione chuckled, "So you want to do a test run?" She blushed a bit as she said that.
Harry looked around and shrugged, "Uh yeah sure." he tried for nonchalant and it came out awkward with a slight blush.
Lavender turned to Neville, "Well good sir shall we dance?" She said holding her arm out to the grinning boy who suddenly stopped grinning and started sweating.
======xxxx====
The adults had been talking about the ramifications of Dumbledore's action and how this would affect Harry. Plus the odd comments Luna had made. They came to the conclusion that they would watch but not do anything too drastic yet. He had been removed from the most immediate danger and while Dumbledore kept hinting that the dark lord was still out there his other actions had undercut even Augusta's support for him. They heard music coming from the ballroom and checked on what was going on. The Grangers watching their daughter swing gently in the arms of Harry made them chuckle while Neville dancing properly with Lavender made Augusta and her parents swell in pride. The fact that both boys took the time to dance with their new friend Luna was not lost on any parent.
==========xxxx====
The next day Neville and his four friends arrived at Saint Mungos with his Gramma. He was hanging back even though they had all assured him they did not think any less of him or that there was a problem.
Arriving in the room with Frank and Alice they saw a clean shaven neatly trimmed middle aged man with receding curly hair. He had the round faced look that they saw in Neville's face. He was wearing clean pajamas and laying in bed staring blankly at the ceiling.
There was a tall slender woman wearing clean pajamas sitting staring out the window at a field of wildflowers. Humming a nice song and chewing bubble gum. Augusta sat down between the beds and began talking to and fussing over the man. Neville went to the woman and said hello. She looked up and smiled at him. Handing him a chewing gum wrapper then went back to her singing.
Neville sat on the side of the bed next to Lavender and Hermione. Harry sort of stood to the side next to Luna. Luna began humming along with the woman causing her to look at the young blonde and smile. She made a happy noise and reached out to hold Luna's hand cooing gently.
Everyone turned to look at the duo as Alice began to make combing motions through Luna's hair. She sat on the floor in front of her and let her.
Augusta had some unshed tears as she smiled at the scene. "Your mother loved you deeply Neville but she said she hoped her next one was a little girl."
"Oh. I can see." he choked out.
"I'm sorry ma'am. Do you want me to stop?" Luna asked uncertainly.
"No it doesn't seem to be bothering her and she seems happy." Augusta told her gently.
=====.
Arriving at Diagon Alley they had lunch at the Leaky Cauldron. Then went to Ollivander's.
"Ahhh Madam Longbottom Hello. You're a bit late for Neville's wand."
Augusta frowned at the old Ollivander who merely smiled enigmatically at her. Unconcerned by her stare. Finally she said, "Be that as it may he is here now for a properly fitted wand."
chuckling gently he merely turned to Neville, "Very well young man step up and let's see what we have to work with."
The tape measure flowed out of Olivander's pocket and began flitting around Neville a quill making notes as Ollivander studied the young man. Finally the measurements were completed and he Ollivander made a humming sound.
"May I see the wand you've been using?"
Neville handed over his father's wand. Reluctantly a bit but with a nod from Augusta did so.
"Ahhh yes Frank Longbottom. Oak 12 inches and with a Dragon Heartstring core. A wand of a warrior. Yes we remember the efforts of the Longbottoms. No wonder Neville has had trouble."
Augusta grumped, "Are you saying Neville's not a warrior?"
Chuckling Ollivander shook his head. "Oh no. Not at all. Neville's strength though is much more subtle and hidden. He is not at all weak. No not weak at all." And he turned to go into the shelves bringing back several boxes.
The first few had no reaction whatsoever. The fifth box though had a cherry And Unicorn hair wand. When Neville pulled that one out there was a brief flash of white light and he chuckled. "Its warm."
"Ahh yes. That is a wand of a surgeon. A skilled craftsman. One whose precision and ability are outstanding. The two of you should do wonderful things."
"I know. It feels like my arm is complete now." Neville said sighing.
Augusta looked at Neville like she was finally seeing him but nodded and paid for the wand. Luna had wandered off and was looking at various wands in a display cabinet.
"Hey Luna you see something?" Harry asked wandering over to see what she was looking at.
"This wand is very pretty Harry." Pointing at a yellowish green polished wand with acorns and vines burned into it to make a grip. It was laying on a blue velvet cushion.
"Ahh young miss that is a very special wand. It was given to me by an associate from the United States. She practices the ancient mountain hoodoo and made this from Osage Orange and a Wampus cat hair. She said it will enhance the creative and protective energies of the wielder."
"May I see it?"
"well you're a bit young but I suppose I can." Ollivander said looking at Augusta who merely raised her eyebrow."
"I will turn eleven in February. I was conceived on the Summer Solstice." Luna calmly explained.
"Well in that case a matter of a couple of months shouldn't hurt anyone." he said unlocking the case to bring the wand out on its cushion and holding it out to her. She took it and gave a gentle swish. A trail of glowing sparkling glitter issued from it as she did so and a small soft sound of tinkling chimes was heard. She smiled breathing deeply.
"Well most interesting. I expect we'll see some very curious things from you young miss."
Harry pulled out some coins and paid for the wand. Luna thanked him.
"Father will repay you when I get home Harry."
"No problem. I hadn't finished my Christmas shopping anyhow."
"Well thank you. Although this means we are betrothed now." She said earnestly to Harry's consternation before she began laughing.
"No Harry it doesn't." Augusta chuckled, "but buying girls expensive gifts can be misconstrued if you're not careful."
"Uh yeah. I just wanted to be nice."
"Well we have a bit more time so we can finish that shopping if you want."
====.
Back at the house Luna softly spoke to Neville, "I'm sorry if I took time away from your mother and you today."
Neville smiled and shook his head, "She sort of recognizes me but for the most part just sits there and hums looking out the window. So its okay Luna. That was the most animated I've ever seen her."
"It was nice. She must have been a very wonderful person." Luna smiled.
"Yeah so I've been told."
Hermione and Lavender hugged him gently. He patted their arms and stood up putting the bubble gum wrapper in a box on the mantle. "Yeah thanks."
====xxxx====
The 25th dawned early. Harry had woke up and was looking out the window at a soft gentle snow falling over the gardens. He felt strange not having to be up making breakfast or fighting with Dudley or avoiding Petunia's glare.
A knock on his door interrupted his musings as Neville ducked his head in, "Hey Harry you want to come down and open gifts?"
Harry got up. "Uh yeah sure. Is everyone else coming too?"
"Yeah."
Arriving in the drawing room Harry found a pile of presents around the tree. Everyone exchanging them and sorting them. Hermione saw him and smiling said, "Good morning Harry yours are in that pile there. We thought you might have decided to hibernate."
"No I was just enjoying the quiet. Usually I had to be up cooking breakfast by now." He said offhandedly causing Hermione to rip the wrapping paper she had been holding.
Harry began carefully unwrapping the paper and folding it to the side of him. Enjoying the broom servicing kit Neville had gotten him, Hermione had gotten him a collected works of Shakespeare book while Lavender had bought him a nice tie that had a golden snitch flying around on it.
Unwrapping a small narrow package he found a hand carved wooden flute. "Hey check this out Hagrid sent me a flute." Harry said surprised. "I forgot to send him anything."
"Well you can take care of that after Christmas. I'm sure he'll understand. Just write him a nice letter explaining you got caught up getting settled in here."
Harry nodded and carefully laid the flute to the side after experimentally playing a few notes. He opened the larger wrapped package carefully and found a beautiful silvery silken cloak. He stood up and put it on causing everyone in the room to gasp.
"Oh my Harry. You've definitely gotten ahead in life." Daniel quipped as Harry looked down and exclaimed, "MY Body's gone?"
"Nonsense dear you've just gotten an invisibility cloak." Augusta said curiously, "So who is that from?"
Taking the cloak off he looked at the card that had been with it. "It doesn't say. It just says this was my father's and to use it well."
"Now that's curious." Augusta said. "Wonder who brought that one. Pixsy."
"Yes ma'am?" The house elf appeared by her chair.
"Do you know who brought those two gifts for Harry?"
"Yes ma'am. A Hogwarts elf came from the school with them. Saying they where for Mr Potter. They did not seem to be dangerous."
"No they are not but it is curious that there was no card. They did not say who they were from?"
"No ma'am."
"Well thank you. Enjoy the rest of the day."
"Yes ma'am. Happy Christmas."
Everyone wished the small elf the same. They began talking about the mystery of the cloak which Harry carefully folded and set to the side. He was more curious to find out if everyone liked the gifts he got them. Luna of course loved the wand and was very grateful to Harry. Daniel liked the illustrated works of Shakespeare, Emma said that the eversharp knife set would serve them well but that Daniel was the cook. Hermione and Lavender both liked the charm necklaces they got. Hermione's had a snitch and Lavender's had an owl. Neville got a wand holster and a polishing and servicing kit. He wasn't sure what to get Augusta so got her a comb and brush set. The Browns he got a set of enchanted mugs. Luna gave each of them a drawn picture of the five of them with a chain of hearts that said friends.
"Harry you didn't have to go so crazy with your gift giving."
"I know but this was the first year I got to shop for a real family. So..."
He didn't get to finish as he got a three way hug from Luna, Lavender and Hermione. The rest of the morning was quite happy.
====xxxx====
That night Harry sat up in bed examining the cloak. Wondering where it came from and who had been holding it for so long. Wondering if his father had had it that night if he could have many thoughts and emotions from this one piece of cloth.
====xxxx====
The day of the ball Harry was nervously adjusting his suit. As the ball was also for the local muggle families they had to pretend to at least be muggles for today. Harry had not expected that. But he enjoyed it immensely. Hermione looked lovely in a pale blue dress that flattered her developing figure while Lavender wore a burgundy one that was covered with sparkles.
Luna and her father showed up wearing some very interesting clothes. He was wearing a suit that was at least a decade out of style and was garishly multi-colored. Luna at least was wearing a nice dress that was canary yellow with silver garland trim. Fortunately it seemed like most of the villagers just knew him as that widowed artist that lived on the edge of town so did not freak out.
Harry and Neville each took turns dancing with the girls. Discovering that while Luna was graceful and lithe she did not exactly go with the music that was playing but her own interpretation of it. Lavender and Hermione being more conventional with their steps.
====xxxx====
The days leading up to new years saw Harry playing with the cloak and practicing the flute. It did have a nice tone as Hermione called it. He wrote Hagrid a long letter thanking him for the flute and apologizing for not sending him anything earlier and sent along some tea and biscuits. He also sent some dog treats for Fang.
Hermione and her parents had to return to their home but gave an invitation for everyone to come for new years to their house. Harry and Neville agreed and would be able to visit. Luna said she would have to see but would be quite happy to expand her range of experiences. Especially if she was welcome.
====xxxx====
After having a very fun new years party in Crawley it was only a few days until they had to return to school. Hermione spent those days with her parents and Lavender was with hers.
Luna visited Harry and Neville and chatted with them about Hogwarts and how she would miss them. Harry and Neville promised to write her and keep her in the loop of what was going on, she said she looked forward to that.
====xxxx====
The train ride back was going well. Ron Weasley had looked like he was going to try and join them in their compartment but seeing their glares decided to move onward.
Draco and his goons though soon made an appearance, "Ahh Longbottom how nice for your family. They actually have a wizard among them again."
Neville chuckled then went back to talking to Harry about the upcoming Quidditch season. The girls ignored Draco as well.
"What did everyone go deaf as well as dumb?" Malfoy scowled.
"Harry do you hear something?" Hermione sighed.
"Just a churlish dog-hearted barnacle." he said with a shrug.
Hermione chuckled, "You've been talking to dad."
"Well just a bit." Harry confessed as Neville and Lavender laughed at Draco trying to figure out what exactly he meant. Unable to do so he just took it as an insult and sneered.
"You must think you've done so well coming up in the world eh Potter? Just try not to live above your level." He then turned and stormed off.
"What was that supposed to mean?"
Neville shrugged. "The Malfoys don't exactly like us. As you see we associate too much with muggles for their comfort."
"I thought the ball was wonderful Neville." Hermione said.
"Yeah I really enjoyed myself and that Luna girl is odd but charming." Lavender agreed.
"She is pretty cool. She misses her mom a lot." Harry said with a sigh.
"Well we'll be friends with her and maybe help her through it." Hermione said smiling.
===xxxx===.
Settling back into the routine Hagrid thanked Harry for the tea and biscuits as well as the treat for Fang. He was happy that Harry was enjoying the flute.
Oliver was pushing the Quidditch teams to practice in the mud and the rain which made everyone grumpy. Especially when the twins kept playing pranks and not being serious enough according to Oliver. Harry just found it wet, cold and miserable but still flying was flying, especially when the clouds were low enough that he could climb above them and be flying in bright blue sunny skies.
He was still working with his friends on their flying skills. Hermione had stopped trying to murder the broom and was more relaxed but still did not like going too high. Lavender had started wearing tights under her skirt which made her far more relaxed while Neville was more self confident causing him to make more smooth control inputs. Madam Hooch complimented Harry on his skills and ability to help others.
A few days before the first match of the new term Oliver called the team together after having a screaming fit at the twins for slinging mud and not being serious once again.
"Okay everyone. Madam Hooch got sick and so Snape drew the referee position for this game."
"Snape! We are so shafted." The twins simultaneously cried.
"Maybe it won't be that bad." Katie Bell shrugged.
"Won't be that bad. Snape hates us. He hates the twins. He is going to destroy us to make sure Hufflepuff wins. Just to make sure we lose." Oliver moaned
"Maybe someone could
set fire to him again." the twins joked.
"Not funny guys." Oliver said after seriously looking like he was considering it.
=====xxxxx====
"Guys Snape is going to referee the game Saturday." Harry said plopping down in the chair next to them in the common room.
Hermione looked up from her book and raised her eyebrow, "Well he'll be in front of everyone so if he was the one that tried to hex your broom he won't be able to."
"Yeah but if it was Quirrel he won't be able to protect Harry either." Neville pointed out.
"The twins suggested maybe he could catch fire again." Harry glanced at Hermione with a smile who merely frowned at him. "Okay yeah bad idea."
"You'll just have to do your best and we'll watch the crowd."
"Then she'll set fire to whomever tries to hurt you." Lavender said with a grin.
====xxxx====
The day of the match was mostly cloudy with a light drizzle. Harry had impervioused his glasses to keep the water off. A warming charm was also a good idea. Hermione gave him a hug before he mounted his broom for luck as did Lavender. When he looked at Neville he laughed and shook his head. "I like you Harry but not that much." He said as he smacked him on the arm. Harry laughed and took off to join the team.
Harry saw his friends take places in the stands where they could watch everywhere and still be able to react quickly. He waved then focused his attention on the game as the whistle blew.
He started patrolling the sky. A penalty shot for Hufflepuff caused him to stop temporarily as the Twins had allegedly sent a bludger at the Hufflepuff chaser's head. After the shot he resumed and spotted the glint of shiny gold against the clouds above the shoulder of the Hufflepuff Seeker. A brief burst of speed at the other player caused them to cry out as Harry pulled up sharply to follow the climbing ball. He arced over and reached out at the apex of his climb for a brief moment hanging motionless as he grasped the fluttering walnut sized ball. He flipped his broom around took his seat and spiraled down to the ground in a slow flutter holding the Snitch aloft.
The crowd went crazy. Absolutely crazy as the record for shortest game was set that day. 4 minutes 30 seconds. Even Ron was allowed to congratulate Harry at that point.
====xxxx=====
Harry and Hermione were hovering high over the Quidditch pitch with the sun a few degrees above the horizon still. She had managed to relax enough as long as she didn't look straight down.
"See how beautiful it is up here Mione. Its like you're part of the world but not part of it. Like a cloud or a bird."
"I guess it is rather nice." she managed to agree. Drifting close to Harry which made her feel a bit safer.
They saw a few people milling around the courtyard enjoying the sunshine that had arrived to finish out the day as the clouds blew off. They also saw a tall black haired professor come out a side door and cross cautiously off towards the forbidden forest.
"hey isn't that Snape?" Harry said pointing at the man.
Hermione took a deep breath and looked at where he was pointing. "It does look like him. Wonder where he's going?"
"Let's follow him and see. He said and slowly started moving over the path Snape took. Hermione not wanting to be left alone followed Harry. The distraction of keeping near Harry yet not attracting attention caused her to forget being nervous.
They soon lost him from their height and so dropped down until they were barely skimming the trees. Just as they were about to give up and turn back they heard Snape's voice talking.
"Just so long as you are clear where your loyalties stand Quirrel. We cannot afford to have any mistakes."
"i I I know wh wh where my loyalties lie Severus."
"He isn't happy right now. He's losing control of the situation and needs to get it back. One slip up and the entire plan could fail. I'd hate to see what would happen if you were the weakest link in this chain."
"I I If you are t-t-t-t-trying to scare me Severus you're failing. I'm not afraid of you."
"You should be."
When they didn't hear anything else for several minutes Harry nodded to Hermione and they flew back to the broom shed by the Quidditch pitch.
"What was that all about? Snape certainly sounded like he as trying to be as menacing as possible."
"I know. But that conversation could have been taken multiple ways. Who is angry at him? What chain? What plan? This is crazy."
"I know. We need to tell the others."
====xxxx====
"That does sound strange but impossible to figure out which one is on which side." Lavender frowned.
"Could they both be on the same side?" Neville asked.
"Why go meet in the woods then if they are on the same side."
"Maybe they didn't want to explain to someone else what they were talking about?" Neville hesitantly asked.
"They're both professors. They have offices and the teacher's lounge and who knows where else they could have talked. Furtive secret meetings in the forest is not usually a indicator of above board business." Hermione explained.
The rest of the group could come up with nothing constructive to argue against that.
====xxxx====
One afternoon as they were entering the library the quartet ran into a wall that usually wasn't there. When the wall moved they discovered that it was Hagrid.
"Oh sorry bout that ermione. Didna mean to get in the way." He said picking her up off the floor with one hand.
"Its okay Hagrid. I wasn't expecting you there. What brings you to the library?"
"Oh you know looking for things to while away me quiet nights."
Draco had been strolling by and snickered, "We didn't know you could read. Or do they have coloring books available." To the amusement of his friends.
Hagrid sighed and shook his head.
"Pay him no mind. He's just let all the hair pomade eat into his brain." Lavender said glaring at the blonde boy's retreating back.
"Thanks. But no I should be getting back to the fire. I got some eggs in the fire boiling. Evenin all."
Hagrid then left out. Not noticing he had dropped one of his books when Hermione ran into him.
"HEY!" Harry called only to be shushed by Miss Pince.
"Sorry." he said then looked at the title of the book. 'Dragon Breeds of the United Kingdoms.'
He showed the book to the others. "He dropped this."
Neville snorted in surprise, "Wonder why he's looking up a book on dragons. Its illegal to keep one."
Harry made a humming noise, "I dunno about that. Hagrid told me when I first met him that he wished he could have a dragon."
Hermione's shoulders slumped as she shook her head, "Oh no. You don't suppose that he has somehow gotten a dragon."
Harry sighed, "We better go find out before he gets himself eaten."
====xxxx===
Arriving at the Gamekeeper's hut they noticed all the curtains had been drawn and there was a roaring fire inside obviously by the amount of smoke coming out of the chimney.
Pounding on the door they heard Fang barking and Hagrid asking "Who's there?"
"Its us Hagrid."
The half giant opened the door a crack and stuck his head out. "Look right nows not really a good time for a visit."
Harry held up the book. "Do you have a dragon Hagrid?"
Looking down at the book in Harry's hand the big man sighed, "Oh. That. Well technically no."
"So it hasn't hatched yet then?" Hermione surmised.
"Well no. Come on in."
The inside of the hut was stifling hot and the four of them were soon sweating. In the fire on top of several logs and pieces of coal was a melon sized roundish black egg with silvery speckles on it.
"That's a dragon's egg?" Harry asked
"Yeah won it down at the pub. Me and the fella was trading shop talk about Fluffy and he struck it in a a game o chance."
"Fluffy? What's that?" Hermione asked.
"Oh. I shouldna said that."
"Well. I mean Fluffy that doesn't sound like something all that bad." Lavender smiled giving him the pout.
"Well o course not. Jus cause he's a 12 foot tall cerberus don mean he's a bad doggie."
Harry groaned at the concept of a 12 foot tall dog good or bad.
"I don think I shoulda tol you that."
Hermione though was frowning, "What in the world was the reason for putting a cerberus in the school? That's a massive guard dog."
"Well he said we had to guard the stone with some serious protections." Hagrid said then frowned.
"Ah geez you guys. Ahm na supposed to be saying any o this. None o yer business. Now get back on up to the castle."
"Hagrid just one more thing. You do realize that you live in a wood hut right?" Hermione pointed out as he was shooing them out of the door.
====xxxx====
Walking back to the castle Hermione was livid, "He's going to get himself killed or injured. Dragons do not make good pets I am sure. Why did he not listen?"
Harry shrugged, "He wants a dragon for a pet. He's a half giant so he probably thinks they're no big deal."
"Well I am sure that's not something the school would appreciate. Besides do you know what a dragon eats? How big they'll get? "
"No I don't but in fairy tales they eat knights a lot. I remember Dudley found that the best part of the story." Harry sarcastically remembered.
"Yes well I sincerely doubt that the student body would be far different."
Neville shrugged, "Well maybe its a vegetarian dragon?"
"oy what're you talking about. There is no such thing as a vegetarian dragon." Ron said overhearing their conversation as he was walking back from the Quidditch pitch.
Hermione paused and looked at the red head, "And how would you know?"
"My brother Charlie took his OWLS early and got an apprenticeship at the Romanian National Dragon Preserve. He knows a lot about them and that's practically all he talks about."
Harry turned and looked at Ron, "Really? Well then what sort of dragon has a black silvery speckled egg?"
Ron seemed to think for a moment then said, "Sounds like a Norwegian Ridgeback. The Firebolt has a golden red egg, the Welsh has a green speckled with blue egg and the Hungarian Horntail has one that looks like cast iron."
"So how dangerous would a baby one of those be?" Hermione asked.
"You guys are asking some very specific questions." Ron started looking at them suspiciously then looking back at Hagrid's hut with its chimney roaring smoke. "Aww no you ain't saying the guy has a dragon egg in there he's trying to hatch?"
The four of them looked at each other then back at the red head. "What would it matter if he did?"
"Because if the authorities caught him its 5 years in Azkaban. Breeding dragons is illegal. Too many problems from them in the civilized areas. That's why they are trying to move them to the wilderness regions. But muggles keep pushing back the wilderness." Ron glumly said.
Harry took off jogging towards the castle.
"Hey wants with him?" Ron exclaimed.
"I don't know." Hermione said then took off after him with the other three sighing and falling in behind.
They arrived at Professor McGonnegal's office just as Harry was being let into it. McGonnegal saw the rest of them arriving behind him and held the door open.
"Very well what's the grand emergency that the five of you needed to be rushing in here."
Harry looked at her. "Ma'am you need to stop Hagrid from making a major mistake. He has a dragon egg in his hut."
Walking behind her desk she said something in Gaelic then sat down. "And you know this how?"
"We saw it. Ron said it was probably a Norwegian Ridgeback. But you need to stop him before he gets in trouble."
"How in the world would he even get his hands on an egg?"
Ron grumbled, "Charlie says there is a major black market in them. Some people actually eat them."
Minerva raised her eyebrow while the other four looked varying degrees of sick. "Well that is unpleasant. From what I recall your brother is at the RNDP?"
Ron worked out the acronym then nodded vigorously, "Yeah he is. Maybe if you contacted him he would help get the egg from Hagrid."
Harry got an idea, "Maybe if you asked him he could get Hagrid a job at the Preserve? He would love to be around dragons all the time."
Minerva looked surprised but nodded, "In many ways that might be a better use of his talents than here. A very good idea gentlemen. 10 points to Gryffindor. And another 10 for being brave enough to do the right thing. Now if you will excuse me I need to write a few letters."
They beamed at the compliment and left.
=====xxxxx=====
Ron was grinning, "So hey. Can I be a friend of yours now?"
Harry looked at the others who shrugged. Hermione was the most negative in the group but she just seemed to leave it up to Harry. He merely sighed and looked at the red head.
"Fine. Your in but on a probationary condition. And you have to explain why the headmaster would think you were our friend before Christmas."
Ron got a strange expression on his face. Almost like a cross between confusion and worry.
"What makes you think the headmaster thought we were friends?"
"Because when we first visited Hagrid he was expecting you to be with us not Neville and Lavender." Hermione explained.
"Oh really. Well uh I dunno." He tried to play casual and cool but Harry wasn't buying it. Weasley reminded him of Dudley when he got caught bullying or misbehaving at school.
"You're lying. I told you I don't like liars. You're back out." Harry said and started walking off. The others turned and followed him. Neville glaring at Ron when he started to follow them.
They had taken a few steps when Ron called out, "I don't know why he wanted me to be your friend but he asked mom to talk to me and encourage me to try and make friends with you."
Harry and his friends stopped and turned around. Looking at Ron with a frown Harry asked, "Why? Why? What did he say?" He said stepping towards the redheaded boy who was beginning to sweat.
"I don't know the details. Mom just said that we were to try and meet you outside the barrier at King's crossing. She about had a cow when you weren't there but she wanted me to try and make friends with you because you would need the right sort of friend. Someone to help you understand the wizarding world and make sure you didn't have too stressful a time here."
"So the headmaster put your mom up to trying to get you to be my friend?"
"Yeah. She said that you wouldn't understand a lot of our culture and would need my help."
"I seem to be doing pretty good without it."
"So I noticed. But she keeps nagging me. That and she has some kind of strange hope that you and Ginny will get married someday."
"Ginny?"
"My sister."
Lavender made a noise of recognition, "Yeah Luna mentioned her."
"Oh hey you guys know Loony?" Ron said with a chuckle.
"What did you call her?" Harry growled at him.
"Uh I called her Loony. You know a little nickname. No big deal. She's a bit soft in the head..."
Harry punched the red head as hard as he could before he finished his comment. He felt something pop under his fist. Ron's head rocked backwards and he fell down.
"OW! What the Hell mate?" Ron exclaimed clutching his nose.
"Her name is Luna. She is not soft in the head she is pretty nice and a better person than you are. Stay away from us. Just stop trying. Tell your mom that you are not going to be my friend and you blew it forever." Harry stomped off. Hermione smirked at Weasley and followed Harry. Lavender shook her head, "You really should respect his wishes. Next time he might get mad." Then she too walked off.
"He's already barking mad." Ron grumbled as his nose gushed blood.
Neville helped Ron up then pointed his finger in Ron's face. "No he just doesn't like people who disrespect others. You've done nothing but be disrespectful and manipulative. I'm surprised you're not in Slytherin with the way you act."
Ron's mouth dropped open as Neville shook his head and walked off.
=====xxxx====
Harry was standing on the top of the Astronomy tower watching the last few rays of the setting sun vanish over the mountains. Hermione and Lavender was sitting quietly nearby while Neville stood by him looking over the rail.
They heard someone coming up the stairs and the door open. The headmaster walked out and quietly cleared his throat. "Ah Harry. I was wondering if we might speak for a moment."
Harry turned and nodded, "Yes sir."
Dumbledore looked around and sighed, "I was hoping to speak to you alone but I suppose your retinue would not depart without some struggle?"
Harry smiled, "They are my real friends." He said as they gathered around him.
"So I gathered. Which is the root of the difficulty with young Mr Weasley."
Harry frowned, "How is them being my friend Ron's problem?"
"I think you misunderstand me Harry. Ron approached you too heavy handedly in his efforts, while these fine people grew their connections to you more naturally."
"Yeah. He told me that you talked his mom into pushing Ron on me."
"Yes I spoke with his mother. I had hoped to ensure at least one friend for you at the school here as I did not count on you making friends easily. The way people might react to your fame and how you would react to them. I underestimated your resiliency I see."
"So it would seem. Sir." Harry said evenly.
Dumbledore chuckled, "Your father had the same force of personality that you do. Although he was not as measured as you are in his behavior. He and his friends caused me no small amount of havoc during their tenure here." He said coming over to the railing.
Harry was confused but turned to look over the dark valley below. The stars reflected in the lake. Like an upside down sky.
"I have lived a very long life Harry and I may have forgotten what it means to be young. In many ways I think my shoes are too tight and I have forgotten how to dance." He seemed to be slightly lost in his own memories. Harry and the others didn't know what to do so they stayed quiet.
They stood like that for several long minutes. The headmaster quietly staring over the lands but seeing whatever memories his mind was replaying. Harry contemplating what was going to happen next.
The professor started chuckling for a moment before sighing deeply. "Harry. I will have to give you some sort of punishment for striking Young Mister Weasley. As much as you may have been justified."
"Yes sir I understand." Harry bowed his head in understanding expecting to be severely punished.
"Well I suppose a few nights of detention with myself would be sufficient. So starting tomorrow you shall come to my office a half hour after dinner and we shall discus things."
Harry was surprised by the lightness of the punishment he was receiving. Or at least he hoped it was light.
====xxxx====
The first night of his detention he gave the password he was told and rode the stairs up. Entering the Headmaster's office he looked at the various shelves filled with strange devices and gadgets. A strange bright red and yellow bird was sitting on a perch in the corner over a plate of ashes.
"Ahh good evening Harry. I trust you enjoyed dinner?"
"Yes sir. It was great as always."
"Well let's sit down and talk. We can consider this a bit of a clearing of the air shall we?"
"Uh yes sir?"
"You're very confused. I can understand that. Things have been coming at you for the past year at an alarming rate and things you thought you understood are not what it seemed. Am I correct?"
"Something like that sir. I've got a bit of a handle on most of it. There are a few things I don't understand though."
"Only a few?" The headmaster said eyes twinkling.
"Well maybe more than just a few. But you'll answer any questions I ask?"
"Unless I feel an overwhelmingly compelling reason not to is required. So do you accept that condition?"
"Yes sir. Everyone says I must have done something to defeat Voldemort but I was a toddler then how could I have done anything at all? And why was he trying to kill me anyhow?"
"Ahh yes well as to how you survived I must admit that it was mostly luck and the efforts of your mother. She was an extraordinary student. Miss Granger has quite a bit of the same mental acuity your mother did. A bit of a difference in temperament though. However she was brilliant at charms. Her friends Pandora Lovegood and Alice Longbottom complimented her skills with their own unique talents and abilities. So I firmly believe the three of them came up with some method of helping protect you and empowering it with the love of a mother's sacrifice."
Harry sadly stared at the table. "And why he came after me."
Dumbledore frowned and stared over Harry's left shoulder at one of the various portraits on the walls. The inhabitant stared back at him. "Yes well he had his reasons I suppose. He did not exactly share his thoughts with any outside his inner circle."
Harry nodded as that made sense. Dumbledore supposedly led the forces of the light and Voldemort led the dark forces. At least that's what the history books seemed to claim.
"So why did I wind up with the Dursley's sir?"
Dumbledore frowned. "Alas that was my doing. As they were your only living relatives I thought they would be pleased and happy to take care of you. It would seem that they did not feel the same."
Harry made a derisive snort. "No they didn't. Trying to beat the magic out of me. Starve me into obedience. Turn their animals on me. That doesn't seem very happy or pleased. You didn't know about any of that?"
Dumbledore hung his head briefly then looked at Harry. The boy was staring at him unblinking and cold. Like a predator Dumbledore briefly thought. Wondering if the Dursleys had pushed him too hard and broken him. His close friendship and loyalty with his circle made Dumbledore question that though.
"No Harry I am sorry to say but I trusted that their better nature would prevail. I misjudged them. They are being punished now for their actions and you are with a much better guardian. So in the end it has worked out for the best."
Harry just inhaled strongly then exhaled a moment later. Like he was trying to remain clam. "Mrs. Longbottom says you believe that Voldemort is going to come back is that true?"
Oh yes. I firmly believe that he made arrangements that would allow him to survive. He did not actually die that night."
"So how could he have done that?"
"I am not entirely certain. I have several suspicions as to his methods. Unfortunately again he was not entirely forthcoming with anyone."
Harry growled softly. "So what's in the third floor corridor sir?"
Dumbledore chuckled, "I thought you only had a few things you were confused about?"
"Ok so I'm a bit more confused than I thought."
"Ahh the natural state of the world summed up succinctly."
Harry tried not to smile at that, "Yes sir. But still what's being guarded there?"
"Something that if things go well will confirm a suspicion of mine."
"And if they don't?"
"Then the students will have had a year of amazing gossip eh? And another legend will join the others in these halls."
"So is Hagrid going to be in trouble?"
"Why would he be in trouble? He made a small error in judgment. Not uncommon among people. There won't be any harm done and the dragon reserve will see if they have a spot for him so that he may achieve his dream job if he chooses."
Harry smiled, "He'll love that."
"Oh I have no doubt. He has enjoyed his time here but everyone must follow the path their life has set for them. And seems that for Hagrid his path is taking him from us."
Harry was thinking hard for something else. But he was drawing a blank. Dumbledore had leaned back in his chair with his hands steepled studying Harry. Harry didn't know what the wizard was thinking but he felt like he was being studied for some reason.
"Perhaps you should take some time to process these things. We can continue again tomorrow. I'm sure your friend's would be willing to help understand our conversation."
"Yes sir."
====xxxx====
Back at the common room Harry joined his friends at their table. Ron was sitting across the room playing chess with Seamus.
"So how was the detention?" Neville asked.
"Strange." Harry then explained what they had discussed and how he felt like the headmaster was holding things back.
"Well it certainly sounds like it." Lavender and Hermione both agreed.
"Just keep your head up and pay attention to things around here." Neville said.
"On the other note we did some research while you were at Quidditch practice today. We discovered that the Cerberus is a giant three headed dog from Greece. They can be used for guard duties but they have a serious weakness. They can be put to sleep by simply playing music." Hermione stated.
"So not a very effective guardian?" Harry was thinking.
"No not really. Especially as the information is not too difficult to find out. We had to go through about four different books to find it but its not like it was even in the restricted section." Lavender pointed out.
"So there would have to be more things guarding the whatever it is than just that."
"Do you think we could get Hagrid to tell us some more?" Lavender suggested.
Harry sighed, "Maybe. If he's not angry with us for telling about the egg."
"There is that but I don't think he's the sort of person who will hold a grudge." Hermione pointed out.
"True maybe tomorrow before dinner we can go down and talk to him?" Neville suggested.
====xxxx====
Knocking on Hagrid's door the quartet waited nervously. Hagrid opened the door with an odd expression. He seemed somewhat nervous, ashamed and happy at the same time. He looked down saw Harry and grinning picked him up in a hug before setting the winded boy down.
"Well come in come in. I hafta thank all o yea."
"You want to thank us?" Harry said checking his ribs.
"Yeah if you hadn't done the right thing and told Professor McGonnegal about my having the egg then they'da na got in contact wi Charlie and then I wouldna have a job with em after the end of this year."
"They found a position for you?"
"Ay tha they did." The giant man said with a grin. "All thanks ta ye four."
"Well that's good Hagrid. We'll miss you." Lavender said with sad puppy dog eyes.
"Ahh. Ye'll forget abou me soon enou."
"I sincerely doubt that Hagrid." Harry said with a smile.
The giant man started to sniffle a bit, "Well I'll nevah forget about your four."
They sat in an awkward quiet for a few moments before Hermione remembering why they came cleared her throat, "Hagrid since a Cerberus can be knocked out with a musical lullaby that must not be the only thing keeping professor Snape from getting to the item at the end of the third floor corridor."
Hagrid shook his head as he let out a sigh, "Are ye still on abou that? Professor Snape is one o the ones tasked with protecting the stone." he suddenly realized what he said and said, "I shouldna said that. I shouldna said that."
Hermione's eyes raised and she continued though, "Still though someone is going to be coming for this stone. And as fearsome as a Cerberus can be their weakness is not exactly a state secret. They are an ancient breed of magical animal."
"Oh I know that. So does Albus. That's why each o the professors have contributed to the test."
"Ah oh course. Its a test for the upper years to see if they can figure out the puzzle or have the curiosity to even try. Ye didna think he'd actually do something that would be dangerous to the students or anything?"
"Well we might have." Hermione confessed guiltily.
Hagrid laughed, "Ah glad to see the rumor mill still works hard then eh? No Albus had this grand plan last summer to set up a giant test for this year. A mystery puzzle he called it. He'd put rumors out and see which students would go after the treasure and those that did would get a chance to talk to the ministry about a job with the department o mysteries or the Aurors. He made all of us promise to keep it a secret but I guess you four are too smart fer yer own good. Able to dig it outta me." He smiled at them like a proud papa.
"Yeah that's it Hagrid. We knew you'd know everything that goes on around here so we went for the one person who could put it all together." Harry said with a grin.
"Well thank ye Harry but I really don know all that much. Jes tha Professors, Snape, McGonnegal, Flitwick, Quirrel and meself all contributed tasks to get through and none oh them were to be more difficult than a seventh year student should be able to handle." He seemed to be relaxing now that he thought they had figured it out already. "Although the four o you as good as ye are should be able to get through there no problem."
They blushed a bit at the praise but smiled none the less. "Yeah but it would be kinda pointless don't you think? If the point is to get a job with the ministry. I doubt they're going to hire a first year. No matter how advanced our skills are." Lavender said.
"Eh true but it'll get yer names noticed and all. But I'll leave that up to you."
They stayed and chatted a bit longer as the conversation turned to what Hagrid was going to be doing at the Preserve and how excited he was to be going. Charlie and his friends from the Preserve had come with the equipment to handle the egg and promised Hagrid they would take good care of it until he got there.
====xxxx===
"So whatever Dumbledore is planning with that stone, whatever IT is, he didn't share the truth with the other professors." Harry grumbled after making sure they were alone.
"No but he did convince them to participate in designing the protections." Hermione considered the options.
"So that means there is something plant based, something transfiguration, something charms, something animal, and something potions as well as something dark they'd have to get past."
"And one of the professors if not two are working for Voldemort." Harry declared.
"Well we know its not Professor McGonnegal." Hermione declared daring Harry to contradict her.
"No I doubt it would be her. Its got to be Snape or Quirrel."
"Or both." Neville pointed out.
"That is not something I want to consider. How we could go up against both of them."
"Are we seriously considering going after this stone thing?" Lavender frowned.
"No. But we should tell Professor McGonnegal our suspicions about Snape and Quirrel. That way she can do something about it. Maybe."
"What do you mean maybe?" Neville grumped.
"Because maybe Professor Dumbledore has convinced her to ignore anything like that. I dunno. I am trying to figure this out as I go."
"So do you want to go to Professor McGonnegal and discus this. We've only got about half a month to the end of the year."
"Yeah Mione we better."
====xxxx====
Once again Professor McGonnegal was sitting behind her desk looking at the quartet. They had come to her with a very interesting story about suspecting Professor Snape or Quirrel or both from trying to steal an item that Professor Dumbledore had hidden at the end of the third floor corridor. Something about a stone of some sort. They had explained their logic and reasons and told about the conversation they overheard. Minerva was not sure what to think.
"The headmaster has assured all of us that there is no truth to the rumors of anything dangerous being held within the school. And I know that Professor Snape is a rather dour individual with a less than charming personality that does not mean that he is working against the headmaster. Albus has personally assured everyone of Professor Snape's loyalty.
"But what about Professor Quirrel ma'am?" Hermione wanted to know.
"The Professor has had some emotional difficulties this year. Albus says that he will be retiring for some treatment after the term is over."
Harry shook his head. "None of this makes sense. I don't understand. The item that was almost stolen from Gringott's, the item Hagrid picked up, the item that is supposedly hidden at the end of the corridor, the Cerberus. It all just doesn't make sense."
Minerva sighed, "Mr Potter there are a great many times when you become an adult you will look at the world and say those exact same words. I'm sorry."
"Yes ma'am. I suppose so."
Minerva looked at Harry and shook her head, "I understand your concerns but you are not really bringing me enough to go against Albus with. He has made mistakes in his life, who hasn't. But this is something I would need a lot more proof to go after. I'm not dismissing you out of hand. I just need more proof of malfeasance involved. I appreciate your bringing this to me and I will do what I can but the year is almost over. No students have penetrated past the first door I assure you. "
Harry nodded his head. "I understand. We just want to make sure."
"Well thank you and I'll do what I can to reassure you."
====xxxx====
A few days later the quartet were relaxing after dinner at their table in the common room. They had made some discrete inquiries and discovered that it was relatively common knowledge that there was a Cerberus behind the door which served to dissuade most of the younger students. The Weasley twins had managed to learn the secret of putting the massive dog to sleep but could not figure a way to get past the giant carnivorous plant in the next room.
The quartet decided that they would turn to more pleasant topics and try to put the puzzle aside for the evening. Discussing the upcoming summer vacation and how they would be getting together to visit and have fun. The portrait door opened and Professor McGonnegal came in. Voices hushed as they became concerned that she was here to mete out punishment somehow. The Weasley twins sliding their notes off the table in front of them guiltily.
"Carry on. I need to speak with Mr Potter and his associates." She said warmly. Smiling to a few of the younger students as she passed through the room.
Arriving at the quartet they looked at her expectantly.
"If you would be able to spare a few moments I'd like you to come with me."
They looked at each other and nodded, "Certainly ma'am." Harry said as they rose and followed her. Once in the Hallway she began to speak.
"Well I spoke with Albus about your concerns and he has agreed that perhaps showing you the gauntlet and letting you see what you make of it might serve to help allay those concerns."
"Perhaps ma'am but if its as harmless as he claims why has no one managed to get all the way through?"
"I am not certain. It does make me sad though. I though there might be a better sort of student around here." She glumly said.
"So you're going to show us this test?"
"Well actually I was going to go through it with you and let you see what you could make of it."
"Do you really think that's a good idea ma'am?" Lavender asked as she could see Harry and hermione already getting their thinking faces on.
"Oh yes. If the four of you can't make it through then I seriously doubt anyone else could. And if you stroll through like on your way tot he Great Hall for Breakfast then Albus might want to reconsider his traps."
"Yes ma'am as you say." Lavender sighed looking to Neville who was just grimly following along.
====xxxx====
Arriving at the third floor east corridor they stopped in front of the door.
"As you can see it appears to be a basic door that is locked how would you get past it?"
Hermione pointed her wand at the door and said "Alohomora." There was a click and the door popped open.
"Yes very good."
As soon as they stepped through the doorway the massive black three headed dog jumped up and started growling. Saliva dripping on the floor. Minerva tapped a large golden harp that was standing nearby which began to play a soft and gentle tune. Soon the dog's eyes were thudding shut and it dropped to the floor with a resounding thud.
"I admit they are a rather fierce but fragile guardian." Walking around the creature to the next door. The quartet stared carefully at the creature then followed her.
Opening the next door there was a large spiny vining plant covering the entire room. Neville grinned and said, "OH nice. That's a fine specimen of Devil's Snare."
"Professor Sprout would be quit proud of you Mr Longbottom. Now tell us how would you get past this?"
"Well the Devil's Snare is a nocturnally active plant. Bright light causes them to become dormant. So uh. A Lumos Solem." He said and cast the spell as the plant shrank back and the gently waving vines fell quiescent."
The next room was smaller. It was moderately lit and had a heavy oak door with iron banding set into the opposite wall. There was seven locks on the door but a large pile of keys sitting on a desk beside the door.
"So what do you think about this one. It seems rather complicated. Don't you think?"
The quartet studied the keys and the door. Quietly talking among themselves Hermione suddenly started smiling. "Its a Fibonacci series. Look each key has a certain number of teeth cut into them. There are several keys each with multiple teeth but only one key with no teeth, two with one tooth, and one each with two, three, five and eight teeth. All we have to do is determine the corresponding lock sequence and then the door can open."
Neville was hanging back letting everyone else take the lead on this. He was frowning as the puzzles seemed rather oddly specific for each of them. A plant based puzzle, an animal based puzzle when Harry was friends with Hagrid and now a math puzzle when it was well known that Hermione was one of the most brilliant minds in the school that could do incredibly complex equations in her head. Lavender was a healer and studied various potions rather well. And he bet there would be a troll at some point. This was not making him comfortable.
The locks had been figured out and the door opened. Yes there was the troll as he had expected Neville saw. Professor McGonnegal took care of that one with a highly powered stunning charm to the face of the creature then a set of bindings on its arms and legs. "Sorry I know you already dealt with a troll but I did not think we could risk a repeat of the circumstances"
"That's okay ma'am. We don't mind." Hermione said sweetly.
The last two doors passed just as swiftly with Lavender solving the potion puzzle and the four of them working together to solve the shape-changing puzzle that Professor McGonnegal had positioned before the final door.
The final room turned out to be rather anticlimactic. A large circular room with a domed ceiling. There were seats around the room like an amphitheater. In the center of the room on a dais was an ornate large Victorian freestanding mirror. Around the edge it said some strange words it seemed like. Hermione was mouthing them out and talking softly to Lavender who loved word puzzles. Neville saw though that the professor was grinning maniacally. Definitely not the stern and taciturn Scotswoman they were used to. He elbowed Harry and nodded in the direction of their professor. Harry glanced at her and nodded back that he was aware of the problem.
Neville and Harry stepped up and whispered something in the girl's ears. They turned and looked at McGonnegal who was watching them with a curiously eager expression.
"So have you got this last bit figured out?"
"Well uh yeah. Maybe. We have a bit of a problem with the translation of the words." Hermione tried to bluff but the professor sneered.
"Don't give me that little girl. You're not that stupid."
"And you're not Professor McGonnegal!" Harry said from the side as he cast a stunning charm at the figure. Simultaneously from the other side Neville did the same. The figure parried Harry's spell and blocked Neville's.
"You fools. You have utterly no idea who you are dealing with." The harsh guttural voice issuing from the face of their favorite professor confirmed what they had suspected.
"Just who are you?" Harry demanded.
The cruel smile that appeared on the face made them shrink back a moment but with four wands to one they did not feel entirely helpless.
"Ohhh Harry. I'm sorry. You probably are a bit confused. Give me a moment." The being said unconcerned, like they were talking about the last Quidditch game. The body started melting and shifting. Its features realigning into a cruel and nasty version of Professor Quirrel.
"Professor Quirrel?" Hermione exclaimed.
A high cruel laugh issued forth from the person in question. "In the body, at least. Let's just say that while he is in here with me he is not the driving force right now."
"You're Voldemort!" Harry growled and looked like he was going to launch a spell when suddenly his wand was flying out of his hand. As were the wands of his friends.
"You little children. How brave and foolish to think you could dare threaten the Dark Lord himself." He sneered.
Lavender shouted out. "Dumbledore won't let you get away with this he'll stop you!"
"Oh yes. Your precious little discount Father Christmas. He's not in the castle tonight. He got called to London on an emergency. So get over here boy and get the stone out of the mirror for me now! Or your pretty little girls won't be quite so pretty." He sneered as he launched a spell at Lavender that caused her to fall tot he floor curled in a ball screaming.
Neville and Harry launched themselves bodily at the man only to see Neville flung into the wall with a sickening thud and Harry held in mid air. Hermione had frozen unable to move from another spell.
"Stop it you pathetic little worms. I dueled far more threatening adversaries long before you were born. Now let's get that stone." Harry floated over to the mirror in front of Quirrel. He was able to glance at Lavender and see that while she had stopped screaming she was still curled in a ball holding her stomach moaning gently. Hermione was trying to glare Quirrel into exploding it seemed like as her eyes were the only part of her moving. Harry couldn't see Neville but hoped he was alive. Quirrel dropped him to the floor and stood just behind him.
"So boy. Tell me what do you see? Do you see the stone?"
Harry swallowed hard and looked into the mirror to see himself standing on the floor surrounded by people. His mother and father from what all people had described them. A beautiful red haired green eyed woman in her early twenties. A messy black haired, glasses wearing man with thick sideburns and bell bottoms beside her. Both of them with their hands on his shoulders. Other people stretching backwards smiling at him. Hermine, Lavender, Luna and Neville off to the side of them. Augusta and Amelia. All the people who had shown him love and care smiling and showing him their support.
"SO. Where is the Stone!" He felt a wand poke him in the back."
"I don't know. All I see is me standing here."
"Impossible. This mirror shows you your deepest desires. Concentrate you little twerp. Your little girlfriends lives are at risk."
"I am trying to concentrate but the reflection is kinda embarrassing."
"I don't care about your adolescent fantasies Potter!"
A new voice entered the chamber "NO but I am certain his friends would."
"Dumbledore! You're not supposed to be back yet." Quirrel hissed as he grabbed Harry around the throat pointing his wand against Harry's head. Spinning them around to put Harry between the voice and himself.
Striding into the room as casually as if he was walking into his own kitchen Dumbledore came to a halt about 20 feet away from Quirrel. McGonnegal and Flitwick came in and gathered up the other students. Hermione once she was freed from the spell had to be dragged out by McGonnegal as she wanted to run to help Harry.
"You have heard of this wondrous invention called the Floo network haven't you Tom? It can allow a person to travel from London to the school almost instantly. No mucking about on brooms or other slow things."
"I have your little pet Dumbledore. Don't make me kill him."
"You failed the last time. What makes you so certain you'll get it right this time?" Albus Dumbledore said drawing his wand.
Harry wasn't sure he liked the way this conversation was going so he decided to get out of the grasp. He reached up and grabbed Quirrel's bare hand and started bending the finger back. Unfortunately it snapped off in his hand as the finger and hand crinkled and charred like burnt paper.
Quirrel screamed and released Harry pulling his arm back from him. "What foul sorcery is this? What did you do?"
"Harry run!" Dumbledore shouted as he fired off several spells at Quirrel staggering him.
Harry crawled and rolled away but Quirrel followed him dodging the spells "I'll kill you Potter! You little cockroach!"
Harry tried to get up but Quirrel fell on him and tried to strangle him with his other hand which when it touched his flesh crinkled and burned like the other one. Harry didn't think hard and slapped both of his hands on Quirrels head. He screamed as he crinkled, glowed and exploded in a shower of foul bitter sulfurous smelling fine ash. Just before the lights went out Harry thought he saw a strange vapor with an ugly yellow eyed face in it fly off.
====xxxx====
Harry woke up in a soft warm bed. He felt achy and sore but otherwise alive. He had no idea where he was but opening his eyes he figured out there was a bedside table that had his glasses on it.
Looking around he was in the hospital wing he sensed. Lavender was in the next bed over and Neville was in the one across from him eating. Lavender was reading a magazine when she heard him stirring. She smiled and sat facing him.
"Hey you're awake."
"Yeah I think so. Neville and Hermione ok?"
"Yeah Hermione got held by a petrificus totalis briefly but aside from being mad enough to destroy most of the moors she's fine. Neville got the wind knocked out of him and a couple ribs but is mending."
"How about you?"
Lavender licked her lips and sighed, "I'm okay. I just feel bad that I couldn't do more to help."
Harry groaned as he sat up, "You did plenty Lav. Thanks for being there. But that was Voldemort. I don't think there was anything any of us could have done."
"You are quite correct Harry." Dumbledore said coming into the room.
"Sir?" Harry said turning to look as he got glomped by Hermione hugging him. "Ow ow Mione. Breathing is nice."
"Oh I'm sorry. I wish I could have done more to help."
"You did fine Mione."
"Yes all of you did quite fine. You did far better than anything anyone could have suspected."
"Sir what was he wanting?"
"An item called the Philosopher's Stone. It would have allowed him to brew an elixir that granted an extended life."
"But why would he want that?" Harry asked in confusion. Extending ones life not important to a young person who saw an eternity before he got old.
Hermione huffed, "Oh Harry we need to teach you French. He calls himself flees death. He's afraid to die."
"Rather succinctly put young lady. Yes he is afraid to die. He wishes to live forever. Unfortunately he has become willing to sacrifice the very reasons for living to do so. Love, friendship and family. All the things that make a life worthy and enjoyable."
Harry nodded as he looked at Hermione with a smile. She was sitting on the side of his bed holding him like she thought he was going to vanish.
"So is he gone?"
Dumbledore frowned and shook his head, "No Harry. I am sorry to say that he will be back at some point."
"How can you be so sure?" Hermione asked.
"I'm afraid I cannot tell you, yet. In due time Harry I will take you under my wing and tell you all that you need to know. Right now though you must try and enjoy the pleasures of youth. They are far too fleeting."
"Uh yes sir."
"Well as you appear to be in good hands here. I shall see you at the leaving feast."
====xxxx====
A few days later the great hall was draped in red and gold as the points had added up in the favor of Gryffindor. Harry winning the last game of the season had pushed them over the top.
The story of what happened had managed to make it to the rumor network and all kinds of stories were going around. Harry and his friends tried to keep them from getting too wild at first but just eventually gave up and smiled enigmatically and said that was an interesting story no matter what was said.
====xxxx====
Just as Harry was heading to the train Hagrid came up. "Arry. I got something for ye."
Harry stopped and smiled at the gentle giant. "Yeah Hagrid?"
"I wrote to a bunch of the old gang and asked them to send me any pictures of yer family they might have. They sent me some along with some letters and notes. That way if ye wanna contact them you could." He said as he handed Harry a small box.
Harry choked up briefly then smiled and hugged the man. "Thank you Hagrid. Are you going to be okay?"
Hagrid choked back some tears and said, "Oh yeah. I pack up a few things and then I'm off to Romania. Working with Dragons in a land apart. So thank ye Harry. And thank yer friends for me too."
"I will." He said as the whistle blew calling stragglers to the train.
"Well ye better get going. Don wanna miss the train now."
"Write to us?"
"Aye that I will."
====xxxx====
Sitting on the train watching the countryside roll by back towards London Harry contemplated the last year. He had begun it angry, bitter and alone. Now he had friends. He had a family he felt like and he had the most important and fragile thing hope. But he also had a darkness on the horizon threatening that. A darkness he felt like no matter what he was going to have to fight.
"Knut for your thoughts Harry." Lavender called gently breaking into his thoughts.
Turning to her with a smile. "I finally have a home and family."
They all smiled back at him. "Thanks."
"I'm not going to let anyone take that from me again. So we're going to have to get strong enough to fight back. To fight for our family."
"Together forever." They said.
====xxxx====
To Be Continued in: RETOLD The Year of the Basilisk.