A/N: I do not own Harry Potter nor the Advent of the Archmage. They are owned by J.K. Rowling and Mo Xiang respectively.

Admittedly, Dumbledore felt that he was a bit slow on the uptake just now. He knew something was wrong, that's why he returned. The first thing he did when he landed was to walk towards the third floor corridor. However, he hadn't even taken a few steps when he saw Rose Potter careening towards him on a broom.

'Huh… maybe I should allow broom travel in the castle… something to bring up with Minerva'

Due to the distracting, yet intriguing, line of thought he had, Dumbledore took a bit to understand what was happening. Rose was also panicked and didn't know how to properly explain the situation. Eventually realising what happened, he rushed as fast as he could. Hoping beyond hope that he will make it in time. No injury is acceptable in Hogwarts, let alone death.

Reaching the third corridor, Dumbledore was met with Fluffy fully awake. Though that did little to stop the Headmaster. The Cereberus knows who he is and went out of his way. It was obedient to those it knows. Jumping through the trapdoor, more like gliding down with how graceful he made it seem.

He had just reached the keys chamber when he heard the soft sound of feet touching the ground. He turned slightly just in time to see Rose putting the broom down. 'Really useful mode of transport in the castle… Focus'

He helped build these obstacles, so it was literal child's play for him to disengage all of them. He was moving, almost sprinting, towards the last room. He had to make it in time.

He was just stepping through the last door when he heard a screech. It was one of rage. His heart turned cold, wand in his hand, he prepared to step in to protect Link.

The scene before him was dumbfounding. Link was standing there as nonchalant and carefree as ever. A slight smile on his lips. The background of destroyed floors and chunks of stone a sharp contrast. The last vestige of a screaming wraith as it escaped the castle.

'Just… what happened here?'

Before he could verbalise that thought, he was interrupted by Miss Potter rushing towards the young boy, engulfing him in a strong embrace. 'Well, my questions can wait till after I take them to the infirmary'

She was flying, quite literally, in the castle following the Headmaster. All to go save her best friend. Her thought process was going both as fast as humanly possible, and as slow as sentiently possible. Her attention focused on her friend's predicament. She paid very little attention to anything else.

It wasn't until she reached the Key's chamber that her mind aligned with reality and she became aware of the situation.

She suddenly remembered what happened just now. She couldn't help but feel a little sense of awe towards the Headmaster. The ease with which he was dismantling obstacles that had blocked them for a while was inspiring. She had a great urge to improve herself to that standard. She wanted to impress the world, and Link, with her magical know-how.

Later, she should focus now.

They were walking through the last door when she heard a screech. It startled her so bad her glasses nearly fell off her face. Her head swept left and right to see where the sound was coming from. She caught sight of a black fog going through a wall. 'What was that?'

She quickly focused on Link, she barreled over towards him. Hugging him, she finally felt relief. Her friend was fine. There was no problem.

She felt his arms snake around her waist, hugging her back. After a bit, they separated. She could finally take a proper look at him. He doesn't seem to be injured, that's good.

"It is heartening to see that you are of good health Mr Granger. Though it would be remiss of my position as Headmaster if I do not accompany you to the infirmary to make sure everything is as it seems. Shall we?" Dumbledore asked smiling, gesturing to the door at the end.

"Of course Headmaster" As calmly as ever, Link took the lead. Walking with confident strides, no signs of a boy that just went through a fight. As though there were nothing wrong with the world.

'Such a remarkable child. Still calm, even in these circumstances' Dumbledore was impressed with his young charge.

Rose, visibly calmer, strode next to her friend. She was glad that nothing seems wrong with Link, to see that he was still as calm as he was, as confident. Not injured too. That's good.

The Hogwarts infirmary is also, unfortunately, a second bed for a lot of students. Magical accidents, or normal accidents for that matter, are a thing students can't help but get.

There are 20 beds lined up against the wall on both sides. Comfortable ones too. Rose had come here a total of 3 times this year. First, was right after the Troll incident. Second, was a month afterwards to confirm the effect of the panacea. She was deemed perfectly healthy then. In fact, she grew a few centimetres and was no longer as skinny, though she was still thin.

Today is the third time, but the first time it wasn't for her. Link was sat at one of the beds as Madam Pomfrey was casting diagnosis spells. The headmaster was at the side, where he stood quietly, waiting for the all-clear from the Medi-witch.

Luckily, they were alone there this time.

After a while, Link was deemed healthy with no injuries. 'Finally, now we will know what happened there'.

"Now that we are sure that there is no problem, Mr Granger, I believe it is time we understood what happened in there. Would you please shed light on this little mystery?" Dumbledore started.

"Of course headmaster. It really isn't much, but I will try my best to explain. I just stepped through the flames when I saw Professor Quirell. He was acting erratically. Mumbling to himself. He kept pacing back and forth. I confronted him. We exchanged a few words when all of a sudden I heard another voice there. Untethering his turban, Quirrel showed another face growing at the back of his head. It introduced itself as Lord Voldemort. That's when Quirrel started firring spells at me. I used to play dodgeball in school," That bit confused Dumbledore a little, as he had no idea where this was going, Rose had an inkling though, as she was familiar with the muggle sport. "So I was able to continuously evade his spells. If you look at the ground in the chamber, you will notice that it is riddled with holes and rubble. That is the result of my dodging frantically around. I was very lucky to not have been hit. Finally, after a while, I was able to cast a spell that, luckily, hit the target. I think he grew complacent with his overwhelming advantage that he forgot to dodge it. After that, I was able to use the ropes to bind him. I guess Voldemort didn't like that because next thing I know, he burned Quirells body to escape as a ghost I think."

Dumbledore was silently digesting the information he just got.

'The success of a lie depends on how much of the truth you let in.' though Link, keeping his usual calm facade.

"Thank you, Mr Granger, for telling me what happened. May I ask what happened with the stone?"

"Sure, I have it right here in my pocket. Here you go"

"Thank you, I'm sure the Flamels will be very happy to have the stone back in their possession. Now, you say that you were able to dodge these spells because of this muggle sport? Dodgeball you called it?"

"Yes sir, it is a sport with two teams. They race to get a ball, then throw it on the people of the opposing team. Whoever gets hit is sent out until the entire team is gone. The objective of the game is to dodge the ball as best as you can for as long as you can. So it helped force my body to adapt to a jump first and jump fast kind of instinct."

"Interesting, I believe we have quite a bit to learn from this sport. I shall see if it could be introduced next year as an optional recreational sport. Now, if there are no questions…"

"Umm… Headmaster, before you leave. I'd like to know if it is possible if you can tell me about things I want to know?" asked Rose, interrupting the conversation.

"Of course, Miss Potter. I will do my best to answer truthfully unless I cannot in which case I will refrain from answering at all"

"Vol- sorry, I mean, you-know-who…"

"Voldemort, say the name Miss Potter. Do not fear the name, it is but a name after all."

"Right. Voldemort, he's still alive, right? He will come back?"

"It is very possible. All we can do is to keep denying him the possibility."

"Is there a way we can help?"

"Not at the moment, my dear. Perhaps in the future, when you are older. For the moment, all you can and should do is try your best, and improve. Well, I'll take my leave now. Please take care. And I'll see you on the field tomorrow Miss Potter. Good luck"

"Thank you, sir"

They were silent for a bit after the Headmaster left.

"Let's get to your dorm, you need to be ready for tomorrows game." said Link, his eyes hinting at a little mischievousness.

"Yeah, I have to be ready"

"Yeah, playing against Ravenclaw. You need all the help you can get" he was smirking

"I- wha- you- Ooooh, is that how it is? I'm soo going to beat your house. I'll beat it so bad you'll become ravens. Without your claws" Her competitiveness was ignited, her previous anxiety gone.

"Oh, got witty comebacks now. Let's see tomorrow, shorty"

"You're not that much taller than me Link. Plus I grew a little"

"Whatever you say, shorty"

"LIINNNKK"

It was in this chase that Link learnt how fast Rose Potter really was.

Dumbledore kept his silence the entire time it took to get to his office. He was thinking over what had just transpired. He was a bit skepticval about what Link said. He believed that Mr Granger was indeed telling the truth, just not the whole truth. He omitted a few things, of that he was certain.

Looking back, the scene he walked into did fall in line with what Link had reported. It was just that he had a feeling that there was ,ore ti the story than what was shown.

For 1, Link is an 11, going on 12, year old boy. Not to detract from his accomplishment, but he had just been introduced to the magic world a year ago. How could he survive a fight against a trained wizard more than 4 times his age? Either someone interfered in that fight, or Lin Granger has grown considerably in the short time he spent within these halls.

Another thing, while inspecting the chamber, other than the remnants of various spells both dark and light, he descovered a different signature. He couldn't quite place the feeling. The closest he could get was a rune cluster. But that would be impossible, not with the little amount they spent in there.

10 minutes is definitly not enough to create a rune cluster, certainy not one that was powerful enough to leave a distinct feeling under all the other spells used. Yet somehow, that is exactly what happened.

'THis will require a bit more study… I wonder…'

In the Ravenclaw common room after the match. The mood was a bit despondent. The game had been very intense, neither side had given an inch without a fight. It was the most thrilling match of the year hands down. Even though they lost, they were still proud of their team. It was very well played. The only issue, Rose Potter is truly remarkable as a Seeker. After a very intense bout against their own seeker, Rose was able to grab the snitch mere seconds before theirs.

It was a very close match, victory within their grasp. Not just victory of the game, but rather to be crowned as champion for the year and awarded the Hogwarts Quidditch Cup. It was all dependant on this match. They win, they would be Champions. They lose, Gryffindor would be. Unfortunately, it was their loss this time.

The only one not as disappointed as the rest was Link Granger. In fact, one could still see that smile on his face, it was infuriating. Especially so, when they saw him congratulate the opposing team.

Actually, they couldn't really blame the boy for supporting his friend. He did nothing wrong. But no one ever said that the British were rational when it comes to sports, magical or not.

So there he sat, at a corner. Surrounded by those of his year, yet not participating in the conversation.

"Hey Link, maybe you should wear purple. Supporting the reds while wearing blue" joked Terry Boots, a student in Link's same year.

"Oh? Do you mean the colour of Royalty? You're right, I am a king after all"

"No- That's not-"

"Yes, yes… Being speechless is a normal thing in front of Royalty. Don't worry 'WE' forgive you, boy" Link was full-blown grinning now. Enjoying the little banter he was having. Rose may-be his closest friend but he was very well acquainted with his housemates.

Believe it or not, he did spend some time with them when not with Rose. He developed some good ties with them. In turn, they too liked Link, he was a good person, even if he did support Gryffindor.

On the other side of the castle, the Gryffindor house was in full-blown party mode. The Twins got the drinks, some suitable for kids, some not so suitable. The team was the centre of attention. Rather the cup was. They were euphoric.

Their house finally won after losing for so long. The most inconsolable was Oliver. He is a sobbing, grateful mess. He would not let 5 minutes pass before he thanks Rose. or praise her for catching the snitch. No one could blame him, his dream has finally come true after 5 years in school.

Rose was passed around every member of the house. Even the reclusive 7th year that focused on their NEWT's all year long were there celebrating this momentous occasion.

"THREE CHEERS FOR ROSE POTTER FOR GETTING THE SNITCH" bellowed Oliver for the hundredth time that night, but no one seemed to mind. They were all in a great mood, happy, and willing to go along the hype.

"HIP HIP HIP"

""HOORAY""

"HIP HIP HIP"

""HOORAY""

"HIP HIP HIP"

""HOORAY""

Rose was experiencing for the first time, what it felt like for her cheeks to hurt from smiling too much. She could get used to this type of 'pain'.

Rose pushed open the doors to the Great hall. It was the end of year feast, so unfortunately she would have to sit away from Link. She made her way to the Gryffindor table.

She looked across to the blue sea, spotting Link among them. Her face still gloating over the fact they won. He just grinned in reply.

The hall went quiet as Dumbledore made his way to the podium.

"Welcome, students, to the End-Of-Year-Feast. I hope you had enjoyed this year as much as I did. It is always a pleasure to have such company."

*Applause*

"Before we enjoy our meals, allow me the time to give the final tally for House Points."

The hall was silent in anticipation.

"In fourth place, we have Hufflepuff with 352 points."

There were quiet applause, more of a courtesy.

"In third place, we have Gryffindor with 460 points."

There were some quiet groans, but some people were still smiling, knowing there was more to this. (A/N: As 'the golden trio' were not caught smuggling a dragon at midnight, they did not lose 150 points)

"In second place, Slytherin with 472 points."

There were some cheers from the Slytherin table, but mostly the Gryffindor table. Happy their rivals weren't first at least.

"Finally, with a whopping 509 points, Ravenclaw is in the lead!"

That invoked a great commotion. The Ravens were obviously ecstatic. Some even ruffling Link, knowing he was responsible for at least half of these points. The rest of the school also applauded.

"Now, to add the points from winning the Quidditch cup. 50 points to Gryffindor! That puts them at 510 points, taking the lead."

Like being dragged from the bliss of heaven to the despair of hell, the Ravens were frozen in shock. They had forgotten that detail.

"Oh, common, just 1 point"

"We just needed 1 point"

"Unbelievable"

Cries of outrage and despair rang loud with the Great Hall. The Slytherins weren't any better. They were about to start gloating on the Gryffindors, even if they weren't first, they were at least ahead of them. But who would have thought this would happen.

In contrast, the Gryffindors were ecstatic. They won both cups this year.

In the middle of this, Rose looked at Link and was smiling cheekily. To which he replied with a mature sticking of the tongue.

"Finally, some last-minute points that I would like to add. For exceptional bravery and determination, I award Rose Potter 80 points." continued Dumbledore.

Cheers erupted once again. Though amid the hype, Rose's eyes widened. 'Oh no' she knew what was coming. And sure enough, Dumbledore continued, looking far more pleased than he had a right to be.

"For usage of great wit, knowledge and duty, I award Link Granger with 82 points. With no more points to add, I declare the winner of this year's House cup to be… RAVENCLAW."

Though he finished strongly, he was met with silence for a bit, as they were too stunned by the rollercoaster of events that just transpired. After tasting despair, Ravenclaw was brought back up to bliss, waking them from their stupor. They erupted into cheers.

It was the Gryffindors turn to lament. Especially Rose, she just couldn't look towards the very obvious smug look Link was sending her way. She pouted.

"I still think it's unfair"

"It was very fair"

"It was favouritism, he shouldn't have given those last-minute points."

"Yet he did"

"Just stop"

"You started it"

Rose, Ron, Neville and Link were on the train back to London. The two Gryffindors were watching with amusement the byplay of their two friends.

Rose was worried though, in a few hours she will be back at the Dursleys. The life she dreaded is coming back quicker than she wanted. She didn't want to be there. She just had to remind herself that Link promised he will visit her there. Hopefully, all goes well.

Eventually, they made it to the platform.

Neville was the first to leave with his gran. A stern woman that wore a vulture for a hat. Pretty intense woman.

The group of three made it to the Weasley family, greeting the kindly woman. Upon knowing that they were friends, she extended an invitation for the two kids to join them at the burrow during the summer. The last week before going to Hogwarts. To which, Rose agreed instantly, while Link said he would have to take permission from his parents.

Bidding farewell, the two pre-teens made their way to the muggle side of the station. The moment they were out Link's parents, the Grangers, were the first to see them.

"Link over here" his mother shouted, beaming. She immediately brought him in for a hug as soon as he was close enough. Rose stood to the side, unsure of what to do.

It was then that Dan Granger noticed the girl, instantly knowing who she was. Nudging his wife, Emma let go of Link. They both turned to the girl with small smiles as they introduced themselves to her.

"So you're Rose Potter. Link told us all about you"

"Really?"

"Yes, every single one of his letters home mentioned you in some way or form."

Rose had a smile at that.

"Link had asked us to allow him to go over to your side of London every now and then, naturally we went there first just to make sure the commute was easy. I'm sure both of you would enjoy spending more time together"

"Yes, ma'am, I would love that"

"Great, we can also have you come over sometime. I'm sure Link wouldn't mind showing you the way"

Still beaming, Rose was nodding enthusiastically. Anything to leave the house, and if she got to spend more time with Link, there really was no loss.

"Oh, I think that is your uncle. Let's go and talk to him about it. Shall we?"

The smile dimming slightly, something the Granger trio noticed, she nodded nonetheless. They made their way over to the big man.

"Mr Dursley, how are you?" greeted Dan, extending his arm in greeting.

"Dr Granger, what a pleasant surprise" Vernon was truly taken aback at the chance meeting of the doctor. "What brings you here?"

"Oh, we're just here to pick up our son from his school. He told us he made a friend in your niece. So we came over to speak with you in regards to letting them see each other over the summer."

"...oh, your son is one of them" he spoke almost darkly. Something the parents noticed but ignored. They will be sure to make sure Link is prepared when he goes over.

"I don't want any more of their kind in my house"

"Then, he will just wait for Rose to meet with him outside your house"

"...ok" was the gritted reply. He can't be too hard, but his displeasure was visible to all who saw it. Dan and Emma held each other tightly, they were afraid to make things worse. They had to make sure life for Rose wouldn't get difficult because of them. Though, they could make it easier if they could come by every now and then.

Rose, although nervous, was very grateful for the Granger parents. At least she's sure that Link will be able to come over every now and then now. Hopefully, Vernon doesn't make things more difficult.

A/N: Sorry for the late chapter. Hope you enjoyed it. Even though it was shorter than usual.