[Disclamer] JK Rowling owns everything etc etc. except for original characters, of which there are none so far ;)
Chapter 8: Return of the Mack
Most of the week had passed in a daze. Harry was being forced to take extra lessons from Snape in order to catch up with the school work he had missed. He still hadn't acquired a new wand and was supposed to pay a visit to Diagon Alley on Friday afternoon.
Harry rushed down the corridors of the castle, various potions books and supplies were packed into his school bag, making it difficult to run. If he didn't hurry he would be late, and Harry knew just how much Snape hated tardiness.
"Of all the teachers in this school I have to get stuck with the one who hates me" Harry mumbled his thoughts as he made his way into the dungeons.
As he entered the Potions Classroom Harry noticed that Snape was already there, this struck him as odd because Snape was usually a few minutes late for his classes. Harry checked his watch, it was 4 pm, he had to study with Snape till 9 pm. 5 hours with Snape, this was going to be hell.
"Hurry up Potter" Snape's voice cut through Harry's thoughts "I don't have time for your laziness, we have to much to cover. Get out your potion ingredients and follow the instructions I give you."
Harry obliged and quickly set up his cauldron and started following Snape's instructions. They were working on the Revilium Potion, which allowed the user to see through most obstructions at the users will (much like x-ray glasses). Harry smirked at what uses he could put for this potion.
Snape noticed the smile on Harry's face while Harry was working on his potion "I take it you know the uses of this particular potion?" Snape asked.
Harry blushed "Yes sir" and continued to work on the Revilium Potion. Snape was a pretty good teacher Harry thought, it had been well over an hour and so far his potion was exactly the way it should be. Hopefully his luck would carry on Harry thought.
After two and half hours Harry's potion was just the right color, a dark camel which reflected a greenish tint from the candles around the room. Harry smiled as he handed his cauldron over to Professor Snape.
Butterflies were dancing in Harry's stomach while he was waiting for Snape to finish analyzing the potion. After what seemed like ages Snape looked up at Harry.
"A little to much bat toes for my taste, but all in all a good potion. I would give it an A."
Harry smiled and exhaled, he had been unconsciously holding his breath the whole time.
"Looks like your smarter then you look Potter" Snape mocked, but it wasn't the usually cruel tone Snape reserved especially for Harry.
"What's going on?" Harry asked, surprised at his own boldness.
Snape chuckled, "What do you mean?"
"Why are you being so nice to me all of a sudden?"
Snape was about to reply but was cut of by Harry "I neither want, nor need your pity Professor! Just because I've been knocked out for a couple months doesn't give you the right to pity me." Harry's anger was boiling over the surface "I've handled much worse in my life and I don't need you to roll out the welcome mat, I don't need you to make things easier for me. I can overcome adversity just fine, I've been doing it all my life, and I've gotten good at it. So just start being mean to me again, I want to go back to the way things were." Harry's anger had subsided considerably buy the time he finished his outburst.
Snape had been camly waiting for Harry's anger to burn itself out, trying not to show how amused he was. "I'm glad you think so highly of yourself Mr. Potter, but you've misinterpreted my actions. The reason I am praising your work is that you have finally proved me wrong. Even though it took your 5 years to do so you managed to show me that your not just another handsome face, you not just some self proclaimed hero who everybody should worship. You have shown me that you are smart, smarter then smart in fact . . . Today I set out to embarrass you further by having you work on a potion which is taught in my advanced potions class during their seventh year. You were able to complete the potion almost flawlessly, and for that I owe it to you to recognize the fact."
"I had treated you cruelly, picked on you, and sometimes embarrassed for the soul purpose of showing you that not every Wizard was willing to bend over backwards for you."
The emotion in Professor Snape's voice compelled Harry to believe him without question. It was true, he had pressured him to reach his full potential, even though the method was very 'unorthodox' (which is putting it lightly) Harry had became a much stronger person because of it.
"Yeah it did take a while to get a potion right didn't it?" Harry chuckled, Snape quickly followed suite.
"Well before we continue with the lessons I just need to inform you of a few things you happened to miss out on. Firstly, as you probably already know your wand was destroyed in the fire on the Quidditch pitch . . ." Harry sheepishly smiled to himself ". . . therefore you must obtain a new wand, we will be leaving tomorrow at 4 o'clock sharp, make sure you are here on time because that is the only Portkey we can use tomorrow." Harry nodded his acknowledgment. "Secondly a Mr Griphook has requested your presence in his office at that present time to go over a few business dealings. That will be our second stop for the evening, after the meeting we will have to Floo our way back to my office, be sure to speak clearly because we do not want you getting lost in the network."
"Is that all?" Harry asked.
"One more thing, there is a Hogsmeade visit on Saturday, only 5th years and up, in light of the present circumstances, the other students have already been notified of it."
That's great Harry thought, just what I needed to help set some things right.
The rest of the class was spent reviewing previous Goblin Rebellions (much to Harry's disgust) and review of various plants for Herbology.
Harry arrived at Gryffindor tower tired, his mind was numb from all the information Snape had forced him to learn. The house elves had delivered dinner to the potions classroom, Harry and Snape joked about pranks he had played during his days, whenever the conversation wandered towards his father Harry noticed the mood change drastically, he quickly realized that this was a topic he would rather not go over with Snape.
After chatting with Ron and Hermione about the lessons, Harry made his way up to his dormitories and quickly fell into a deep sleep.
Harry woke up the next morning feeling surprisingly refreshed. Checking his clock Harry noticed that it was 6 am. He quickly mulled over the situation and decided to restart his workouts. It would take a while but it was worth it.
Harry quickly changed into his workout clothes and made his way to the common room. Much to his surprise most of the fifth year Gryffindors were already there, and by the looks of it were getting ready for a workout.
"What's goin on?" Harry asked.
Ron turned around and greeted Harry "we started a workout club a month ago Harry, most of us were getting lazy and using magic for everything."
Harry just smiled, most wizards were horribly out of shape Harry thought, and most of them wouldn't last 5 minutes without their wand to help them out.
Ron, Hermione, Lavender, Pavarti, Neville and Dean were the only people there. Harry gave them all a greeting "So, what kind of exercises do you guys do?" Harry asked.
"Well we take a lap around the grounds to warm up and then start on push ups and situps. What do you usually do to work out Harry?" Hermione responed.
"We'll I would conjure a punching bag and some gloves and practice some punches and kicks, then follow it up with push ups and sit ups."
Harry looked around the room and noticed that everybody looked different from the last time he had seen them, all the girls were a lot trimmer and there figures were becoming prominent. He also noticed that Lavenders was the most prominent. The guys also looked a lot stronger, Neville had gone through the most prominent change. He didn't seem like a kid anymore. He was slightly taller then Harry and seemed a lot stronger. Neville also seemed to have an aura of new confidence surround him.
"So Harry do you want to go running with us?" Parvati asked him, most of his friends were making their way out of Gryffindor tower. Harry shrugged his shoulder and followed suite. Him and Ron talked about Quidditch and girls all the way to the field.
Hermione interrupted their conversation and explained to Harry that they basically jogged a couple miles around the vicinity of Hagrids Hut. Harry thought this over, he was used to intense workouts, not jogs around a field.
"I think I'm gonna just run some sweet sixteens" Harry replied, after Hermione was done with her explanation.
"What's that?" Ron asked.
"Well it's a drill that most basketball teams do in the states." Harry replied "Basketball is a muggle sport, very popular." Harry had to explain Basketball to Ron which took a while but eventually they both gave up on it.
"Anyways..." Harry continued "Sweet sixteens are basically like this, you mark a distance to run, and start on one end." Harry paused and looked around to make sure everyone was listening and continued. "You then cut the field up into 4 sections. You have to start on end and run to the end of the first section, and then run back, then you run to the next section and run back and so on until you've ran the length of the field. Then you do it again."
Everybody looked around uncertainly, "Were not used to running like that Harry" Hermione spoke.
"That's the point, if you don't run you won't get used to it, you just need to get used to it, and you don't have to run all out, just go as fast as you can."
Harry was feeling awkward, no one seemed to like the idea. "Yeah your right mate, ill do it with you" Ron came to his side, Harry was glad, Ron was always there for him. Hermione was next and quickly everyone else agreed.
They set up the distance and cut it up into sections. After stretches they all lined up on one end. Hermione said a spell with counted down from three and gave a loud pop when it reached zero. Everyone was going at the same pace at the start. After the first two sections Neville, Dean and Ron started running as fast as they could, trying to be the first to finish the sweet sixteen. The girls followed suit. Harry stepped up his speed sightly, knowing that he would be needing his energy during the final few sections. After the Harry completed his first set everyone else was two sections in front of him. He started sprinting at full speed and quickly caught up to everyone during the second last section. Neville and Ron were leading the group and Harry was right on their tail, He could tell that they were tired and had used up most of their energy. Harry on the other hand had quite a lot of energy in reserve. He paced himself with Neville and Ron until the last sprint to the finish, Harry exploded away from the rest, leaving them in his dust. This caught everyone by surprise as Harry who had been behind for the majority of the race was now finished. Harry immediately started jogging lightly on the spot, not wanting to cool down until the end of the workout.
Ron walked up to Harry looking exhausted "that was brilliant mate" he smiled. Harry returned his smile "How did you do it?"
"It's how the muggles do it" Harry replied "They've got this technique figured out."
Ron gave Harry a pat on the back, before laying down onto the grass, trying to regain some energy. Harry looked over at Neville and noticed that Neville wouldn't make eye contact with him. Harry just shrugged it off, figuring that Neville was peeved at losing the race.
They all started on workouts after this. Everyone was already paired up so Harry did the workouts by himself. He quickly remembered how much he enjoyed working out as was finishing up his 50th push up. Alternating between push ups twice Harry had done the workout of two people (according to the rest of the peeps).
Harry got up and stretched his muscles once again, he could feel himself getting stronger as his muscles expanded and contracted according to the various stretches he was doing.
Everyone began to make their way up to the castle, Harry caught up to Neville and Lavender. "Lavender can I talk to you?"
"Um...sure Harry" Lavender replied, caught of guard.
"Can I talk to you alone?" Harry asked, noticing that Neville had stopped also.
"Ill see you later Neville" Lavender told Neville and followed Harry back outside.
"Whats up Harry?"
"I...I just wanted to apologize to you." Harry started.
"For what?"
"Well, for the way I treated you earlier this year, the way I broke up with you, I owe you an explanation."
"You don't have to explain anything Harry, I guess we were just to different."
"No, No that had nothing to do with it, Lavender, look at me, look in my eyes." Lavender complied with Harry's request. "I wasn't in my right mind at the start of the term, I know you probably think that I'm lying to you but I'm not. Im gonna tell you the truth and you can make your own decision, ok?"
Lavender agreed and Harry continued "I was afraid, afraid that Voldemort (Lavender flinched when Harry said it) would come after everyone I cared for, and I didn't want that to happen. That's why I broke up with you, and that's why I started isolating myself from Ron and Hermione. . . It took me a two month coma and running headlong into a Deatheater trap to realize that I have to live my life to the fullest. And what better way to live my life then spend time withe the people I care for?"
Lavender stopped Harry's tirade by planting a kiss on his lips. "If that's all it takes to get you to shut up I would have don't it a long time ago."
Harry gave Lavender a sheepish grin "So you forgive me?"
"I forgave you a long time ago." Lavender replied, taking Harry's hand.
They both walked back to Gryffindor Tower, and went into their separate dormitories to get ready for school.
Harry was drying his hair with a towel when Ron came in.
"So, you and Lavender again? Was wondering when you would come around" Ron teased "don't know what she sees in a skinny little prat like you." Ron chuckled and tossed a pillow at Harry, which Harry easily sidestepped.
"So, you and Hermione? About damn time, I was wondering how much longer you'd be moaning about her at night, seriously I've lost more sleep over those moans then the dreams of Voldemort."
Ron and Harry looked at each other for a moment and simultaneous burst out laughing. Times like these were ones Harry had missed lately and made a mental not to himself to make sure he had more of these times.
Ron and Harry made their way to the Great Hall for some breakfast. "Harry mate, was that thing with Hermione that obvious?"
"Whadya mean?" Harry asked "You mean the whole moaning in bed stuff?"
"Yeah that?" Ron blushed.
Harry let out a laugh "Nah man, I was just pulling your leg."
Ron exhaled, and the two friends made their way to breakfast.
Ron took an empty seat beside Hermione and Neville, while Harry ended up sitting between Lavender and Parvati. Harry was on his 3rd helping of breakfast when Parvati interrupted him.
"Calm down Harry, you're acting like you've never had breakfast before."
Harry looked up from his food, swallowed the last of the eggs in his mouth and replied with his trade mark grin "feels like I haven't had a decent meal in ages." He gave Parvati a wink and set out to conquest breakfast once again.
It felt like Harry had gone through everything on the Gryffindor table before he felt like his stomach was at maximum capacity.
"Missed this Harry" Fred cried from the other end of the table, tossing an apple over to Harry. The table erupted in laughter and Harry bit into the apple. His teeth ran into the plastic surface of the apple and Fred and George went into hysterics. Harry was rubbing his teeth, he had tried to bite the apple at full force.
"What the hell is this?" Harry laughed, trying to hit George on the head with the apple. George easily swatted the apple away with this Beater reflexes and knocked it out of the way. "Some sort of muggle artifact my dad picked up, those muggle's crack me up with their contraptions."
"Better get going, we have Dark Arts first today" Hermione called towards Harry.
Harry and Lavender followed their fellow sixth-years towards the DaDA classroom. "Did know there's a Hogsmeade trip this weekend?" Harry asked Lavender.
[by the way DaDA=defense against the dark arts,so im a lazy fuck, sue me!!]
"Yeah, I caught wind of it" Lavender chuckled.
"Um, yeah, so do you have any plans?"
"Not really, I was thinking about catching up with my Divination homework."
Harry started laughing "You must be kidding me, your not serious, are you?"
Lavender gave him an angry look and she started walking briskly towards the other Gryffindors.
Guess she was Harry thought, jogging to catch up to her.
"Come on Lav, I was only kidding."
"I take Divination seriously Harry" Lavender replied.
"Your not gonna get mad at me for a little joke are you?" Harry said, giving Lavender a puppy dog face.
"Just don't let it happen again" Lavender gave in and laughed at Harry's face. "You look cute like that."
"Do I? I think I could get used to it for you."
"Yeah I love it, it reminds me of my Kneazle back home" Lavender laughed.
"Ok, ok, enough with the jokes. How about this? Instead of spending the day doing divinations, which I am sure is a very interesting, fun, worthwhile, and NOT a complete waste of time. You can spend the day, at Hogsmeade, with your favorite, most lovable, carefree, smart, handsome and most important of all sexy boyfriend!"
"Like a date?" Lavender asked.
"I was thinking more along the lines of a snog fest, but yeah, you could call it a date" Harry chided.
"Haha very funny" Lavender rolled her eyes playfully at Harry.
"So is that a I would love to snog you 'Haha very funny'?" Harry asked.
"It's more like a I would love to spend the day with you 'Haha very funny'" Lavender replied.
"I'll take what I can get" Harry smiled, putting his arm around Lavenders shoulder and pulling her towards him "meet you in your dorm around 6ish?"
"Um, how bout in the common room about 9ish", Lavenders tone changed, she pinched Harry's cheek and as if she was talking to a baby said to Harry "Lets get going to Dark Arts, wouldn't want Dumbledore's pet to be late for class now would we?" With that she jogged away from Harry and made her way to the DaDA classroom.
"I resent that" Harry yelled, following suite.
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Authors Notes
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That raps up this installment. Please read and review!!!!!
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Ha Ha gotcha !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! On with the story
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The rest of the day had been rather uneventful, before he knew it, Harry found himself racing towards the dungeon, trying to make it to the Portkey on time.
Harry burst through the Potions classroom door, sweating and out of breath. "Hurry up Potter, we only have a few seconds" Snape scolded.
Harry raced towards the snitch in Snape's outstretched hand. Harry grasped it just in time and felt a familiar sensation of being sucked into a vacuum. After a few seconds Harry landed on solid ground, he opened his eyes (which had been closed the entire way) and looked for Professor Snape, who had already recovered from the trip.
Harry gathered himself together, after taking a few deep breaths Harry spoke "Ollivanders Professor?"
"Yes Potter, now move along, I don't want to waste my entire evening babysitting you!" Professor Snape's tone was back to the usual hateful one Harry remembered. It didn't take much to figure out that Snape had to make it look like he hated Harry, the wink Snape gave him helped a bit also.
They quickly made their way to Ollivanders, where Harry bought his first wand. Harry thought about how much he had been through with the wand. If it weren't for it Harry would not have escaped Voldemort last summer. He only hoped that his new wand would be as useful.
Ollivanders was as messy and dusty as Harry remembered. The crooked face of mister Ollivander appeared from behind a pile of boxes. "Ah Mr Potter, I have been expecting you" came the raspy old voice "and Severus Snape, maple and viper fang 9 and ½ inches, excellent for curses?"
"Correct Mr Ollivander, we are in a bit of a hurry, can we continue with Harry's wand selection?" Snapes polite tone was back once again.
"It is the wand that chooses the Wizard Professor..." Ollivander started but was interrupted by Snape "We are in a rush, I don't mean to be rude but surely you understand sir?"
"Yes, Yes of course, now Harry hold out your right hand" Harry complied with Mr Ollivanders request, once again the magic tape measure began taking measurements on its own.
"Try this wand Mr Potter, I created about a month ago, I didn't know why I created such a temperamental wand but I think it is the right match for you."
Harry grasped the wand, it was grey with a green tint to it, slightly on the thick side, with a gold tip. Harry gave it a flick and brilliant red and gold sparks shot out the end of it.
"A perfect match, willow and Phoenix feather, 9 inches long, with a gold tip, excellent all-round wand. The willow was donated to me by Professor Dumbledore, from a particular one on Hogwarts grounds."
"The Womping Willow? That thing almost killed me my second year!" Harry cried.
"Just be glad it's on your side now" Professor Snape chuckled as Harry thanked Mr Ollivander and payed for his wand. It was 50 galleons, considerably more expensive then his last one, but well worth it.
Harry and Snape then made their way to The House of Beasts. Harry greeted the two security wizards, who immediately recognized Harry. After granting Professor Snape with a VIP pass Harry opened the black oak door that led to Griphook's office. He greated most of the workers, who either gasped when they saw him, or wouldn't stop squealing with glee. Harry ignored it and made his way to Griphooks office.
As entered he was greeted by Griphooks scratchy voice. "Harry, so good to meet you after several months, I offer my respects for the many hardships the have befallen on you the last few months."
"Don't worry about it, Im a survivor" Harry chucked along with the Goblin "What is this matter we needed to discuss, your letters were very vague."
"I will start with the good news, we will be debt free by the end of March, during our Third Quarter" Harry mulled over the parchments that Griphook handed him.
"That is wonderful Griphook, Im sorry that I haven't been around to help you run the store."
"No worries Mr Potter, your magical education is very important, I understand that. I have been able to adjust to managing this store."
"That's great, so what is the bad news?" Harry asked.
"I have learned from my superiors in Gringnotts that the Ministry is planning some sort of crack down at Hogwarts, Professor Dumbledore know more about this and has planned a meeting with the Great Goblin himself to discuss matters."
"So where do I fit in all this?" Harry asked.
"The Great Goblin has requested that you appear along Professor Dumbledore as a sign of good faith" Griphook replied.
"Me, im just 15, how could I be expected to contribute to the meetings?" Harry couldn't understand why the Goblins would want him at the meeting.
"It is because of the work you and I have accomplished together. Goblins and Wizards, working side by side has not happened for the last 400 years. The Great Goblin and Albus Dumbledore wish to rekindle this bond in light of the current situation. Therefore it is imperative that we are there for the meeting."
"Alright, I'll be there, when is it?" Harry asked.
"Midnight tonight, that is why I suggest you hurry back to Hogwarts and discuss this with Professor Dumbledore" Griphook opened the door for Harry and gave a bow "we shall meet tonight."
Harry returned the bow and quickly made his way outside where Professor Snape was waiting for him. "Lets Go Potter" Harry was greeted with Snapes 'public' attitude once again and followed him to the floo terminals.
They both paid 1 sickle and bellowed "Headmasters Office Hogwarts" and were engulfed by an emerald green flame.
Moments later they both landed in Dumbledores office, Harry charmed the away the dust on his robes and tucked his new wand carefully back into his pocket. Dumbledore was waiting for them at his desk.
"What's wrong Professor?" Harry asked.
"Severus could you please excuse us? This information could be very dangerous if it got into the wrong hands." Professor Dumbledore asked Snape as he passed Harry a parchment.
"Of course Professor, I understand" Snape replied and exited Dumbledores office.
Harry opened the parchment and read out loud:
"By order of the Minister of Magic, under the Care of Dangerous Animals Act of 1764 section 3 - 6c restriction of level 5 animals at schools. Hereby calls for the immediate and unconditional removal of Dragons from the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. You have 5 hours to comply with this order or legal action will be taken.
Thank you for your co-operation.
[Signed]
Cornelius Fudge
Minister of Magic"
Harry was left stunned, how could this be possible? Was Fudge really this thick headed? "So, this is what Griphook was so concerned about? Can they do this Professor?" Harry asked.
"I am afraid so Harry, I received wind of it from some allies in the Ministry, luckily I was able to remove the Dragons from school grounds before I received the letter. Now the letter is invalid and Fudge has no case against me" Dumbledore smiled.
"But then why do we have to meet with the Goblins sir?" Harry asked.
"Ahh that is a good question Harry, Hogwarts needs security, Goblins are very powerful magical creatures, and hiring them to work as security guards is perfectly legal. So I hope we will be able to convince the Great Goblin that this idea would be mutually beneficial."
"How so Professor?" Harry asked.
"I donated the Dragons to Gringnotts as a . . . 'gift'" Dumbledore paused.
"I see where your going with this" Harry smiled "build up our allies against Voldemort, before Voldemort can turn them against us."
"That is correct Harry, now we will be leaving for the meeting at 11:30 pm" Dumbledore flicked his wand and a bed appeared in the corner of his office "I suggest take a rest, I will return to pick you up at that time."
Not wanting to argue with Dumbledore Harry hoped into bed and fell asleep.
Harry woke up at 11:15 sharp, feeling well rested. Dumbledore was polishing his shoes.
"Why don't you use a polishing charm Professor?" Harry asked "wouldn't it be easier?"
"It would be easier, but a little labor never hurt. You've lived with muggle' most of your life, surely you don't use magic for everything?"
"Yeah your right, I hardly even use magic outside of class. Makes me feel lazy when I use it for every little thing" Harry answered.
Dumbledore checked his watch and looked up at Harry "We'd better get going Harry." Dumbledore pulled out a candy wrapper, which Harry correctly assumed was a Portkey. Harry took hold of it while Dumbledore counted down "3 . . . 2 . . . 1" Harry felt the similar vacuum sensation, a few seconds later they landed in a dark, dimly lit corridor.
"Where are we Professor?" Harry asked, his eyes were trying to adjust to the darkness.
"We are at the entrance to the Great Goblins Palace, just follow my lead" Harry nodded his understanding, "lumos" Dumbledore said, causing a bright light to erupt from the tip of his wand, Harry followed suite.
They walked a few meters to what seemed like a door engraved in the rock. Dumbledore placed his free hand, flat on the rock and instructed Harry to follow suite. When Harry's hand was also placed on the rock a sudden warmth engulfed it, as the door disappeared.
"WELCOME", Harry heard the squeaky voice inside his head, just before his eyes glazed over and Harry passed out.
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Real Authors Notes
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l0l hows that? Two chapters fit into one. Shiet I am good hehe.
Lemme know what you think aight?
Chapter 8: Return of the Mack
Most of the week had passed in a daze. Harry was being forced to take extra lessons from Snape in order to catch up with the school work he had missed. He still hadn't acquired a new wand and was supposed to pay a visit to Diagon Alley on Friday afternoon.
Harry rushed down the corridors of the castle, various potions books and supplies were packed into his school bag, making it difficult to run. If he didn't hurry he would be late, and Harry knew just how much Snape hated tardiness.
"Of all the teachers in this school I have to get stuck with the one who hates me" Harry mumbled his thoughts as he made his way into the dungeons.
As he entered the Potions Classroom Harry noticed that Snape was already there, this struck him as odd because Snape was usually a few minutes late for his classes. Harry checked his watch, it was 4 pm, he had to study with Snape till 9 pm. 5 hours with Snape, this was going to be hell.
"Hurry up Potter" Snape's voice cut through Harry's thoughts "I don't have time for your laziness, we have to much to cover. Get out your potion ingredients and follow the instructions I give you."
Harry obliged and quickly set up his cauldron and started following Snape's instructions. They were working on the Revilium Potion, which allowed the user to see through most obstructions at the users will (much like x-ray glasses). Harry smirked at what uses he could put for this potion.
Snape noticed the smile on Harry's face while Harry was working on his potion "I take it you know the uses of this particular potion?" Snape asked.
Harry blushed "Yes sir" and continued to work on the Revilium Potion. Snape was a pretty good teacher Harry thought, it had been well over an hour and so far his potion was exactly the way it should be. Hopefully his luck would carry on Harry thought.
After two and half hours Harry's potion was just the right color, a dark camel which reflected a greenish tint from the candles around the room. Harry smiled as he handed his cauldron over to Professor Snape.
Butterflies were dancing in Harry's stomach while he was waiting for Snape to finish analyzing the potion. After what seemed like ages Snape looked up at Harry.
"A little to much bat toes for my taste, but all in all a good potion. I would give it an A."
Harry smiled and exhaled, he had been unconsciously holding his breath the whole time.
"Looks like your smarter then you look Potter" Snape mocked, but it wasn't the usually cruel tone Snape reserved especially for Harry.
"What's going on?" Harry asked, surprised at his own boldness.
Snape chuckled, "What do you mean?"
"Why are you being so nice to me all of a sudden?"
Snape was about to reply but was cut of by Harry "I neither want, nor need your pity Professor! Just because I've been knocked out for a couple months doesn't give you the right to pity me." Harry's anger was boiling over the surface "I've handled much worse in my life and I don't need you to roll out the welcome mat, I don't need you to make things easier for me. I can overcome adversity just fine, I've been doing it all my life, and I've gotten good at it. So just start being mean to me again, I want to go back to the way things were." Harry's anger had subsided considerably buy the time he finished his outburst.
Snape had been camly waiting for Harry's anger to burn itself out, trying not to show how amused he was. "I'm glad you think so highly of yourself Mr. Potter, but you've misinterpreted my actions. The reason I am praising your work is that you have finally proved me wrong. Even though it took your 5 years to do so you managed to show me that your not just another handsome face, you not just some self proclaimed hero who everybody should worship. You have shown me that you are smart, smarter then smart in fact . . . Today I set out to embarrass you further by having you work on a potion which is taught in my advanced potions class during their seventh year. You were able to complete the potion almost flawlessly, and for that I owe it to you to recognize the fact."
"I had treated you cruelly, picked on you, and sometimes embarrassed for the soul purpose of showing you that not every Wizard was willing to bend over backwards for you."
The emotion in Professor Snape's voice compelled Harry to believe him without question. It was true, he had pressured him to reach his full potential, even though the method was very 'unorthodox' (which is putting it lightly) Harry had became a much stronger person because of it.
"Yeah it did take a while to get a potion right didn't it?" Harry chuckled, Snape quickly followed suite.
"Well before we continue with the lessons I just need to inform you of a few things you happened to miss out on. Firstly, as you probably already know your wand was destroyed in the fire on the Quidditch pitch . . ." Harry sheepishly smiled to himself ". . . therefore you must obtain a new wand, we will be leaving tomorrow at 4 o'clock sharp, make sure you are here on time because that is the only Portkey we can use tomorrow." Harry nodded his acknowledgment. "Secondly a Mr Griphook has requested your presence in his office at that present time to go over a few business dealings. That will be our second stop for the evening, after the meeting we will have to Floo our way back to my office, be sure to speak clearly because we do not want you getting lost in the network."
"Is that all?" Harry asked.
"One more thing, there is a Hogsmeade visit on Saturday, only 5th years and up, in light of the present circumstances, the other students have already been notified of it."
That's great Harry thought, just what I needed to help set some things right.
The rest of the class was spent reviewing previous Goblin Rebellions (much to Harry's disgust) and review of various plants for Herbology.
Harry arrived at Gryffindor tower tired, his mind was numb from all the information Snape had forced him to learn. The house elves had delivered dinner to the potions classroom, Harry and Snape joked about pranks he had played during his days, whenever the conversation wandered towards his father Harry noticed the mood change drastically, he quickly realized that this was a topic he would rather not go over with Snape.
After chatting with Ron and Hermione about the lessons, Harry made his way up to his dormitories and quickly fell into a deep sleep.
Harry woke up the next morning feeling surprisingly refreshed. Checking his clock Harry noticed that it was 6 am. He quickly mulled over the situation and decided to restart his workouts. It would take a while but it was worth it.
Harry quickly changed into his workout clothes and made his way to the common room. Much to his surprise most of the fifth year Gryffindors were already there, and by the looks of it were getting ready for a workout.
"What's goin on?" Harry asked.
Ron turned around and greeted Harry "we started a workout club a month ago Harry, most of us were getting lazy and using magic for everything."
Harry just smiled, most wizards were horribly out of shape Harry thought, and most of them wouldn't last 5 minutes without their wand to help them out.
Ron, Hermione, Lavender, Pavarti, Neville and Dean were the only people there. Harry gave them all a greeting "So, what kind of exercises do you guys do?" Harry asked.
"Well we take a lap around the grounds to warm up and then start on push ups and situps. What do you usually do to work out Harry?" Hermione responed.
"We'll I would conjure a punching bag and some gloves and practice some punches and kicks, then follow it up with push ups and sit ups."
Harry looked around the room and noticed that everybody looked different from the last time he had seen them, all the girls were a lot trimmer and there figures were becoming prominent. He also noticed that Lavenders was the most prominent. The guys also looked a lot stronger, Neville had gone through the most prominent change. He didn't seem like a kid anymore. He was slightly taller then Harry and seemed a lot stronger. Neville also seemed to have an aura of new confidence surround him.
"So Harry do you want to go running with us?" Parvati asked him, most of his friends were making their way out of Gryffindor tower. Harry shrugged his shoulder and followed suite. Him and Ron talked about Quidditch and girls all the way to the field.
Hermione interrupted their conversation and explained to Harry that they basically jogged a couple miles around the vicinity of Hagrids Hut. Harry thought this over, he was used to intense workouts, not jogs around a field.
"I think I'm gonna just run some sweet sixteens" Harry replied, after Hermione was done with her explanation.
"What's that?" Ron asked.
"Well it's a drill that most basketball teams do in the states." Harry replied "Basketball is a muggle sport, very popular." Harry had to explain Basketball to Ron which took a while but eventually they both gave up on it.
"Anyways..." Harry continued "Sweet sixteens are basically like this, you mark a distance to run, and start on one end." Harry paused and looked around to make sure everyone was listening and continued. "You then cut the field up into 4 sections. You have to start on end and run to the end of the first section, and then run back, then you run to the next section and run back and so on until you've ran the length of the field. Then you do it again."
Everybody looked around uncertainly, "Were not used to running like that Harry" Hermione spoke.
"That's the point, if you don't run you won't get used to it, you just need to get used to it, and you don't have to run all out, just go as fast as you can."
Harry was feeling awkward, no one seemed to like the idea. "Yeah your right mate, ill do it with you" Ron came to his side, Harry was glad, Ron was always there for him. Hermione was next and quickly everyone else agreed.
They set up the distance and cut it up into sections. After stretches they all lined up on one end. Hermione said a spell with counted down from three and gave a loud pop when it reached zero. Everyone was going at the same pace at the start. After the first two sections Neville, Dean and Ron started running as fast as they could, trying to be the first to finish the sweet sixteen. The girls followed suit. Harry stepped up his speed sightly, knowing that he would be needing his energy during the final few sections. After the Harry completed his first set everyone else was two sections in front of him. He started sprinting at full speed and quickly caught up to everyone during the second last section. Neville and Ron were leading the group and Harry was right on their tail, He could tell that they were tired and had used up most of their energy. Harry on the other hand had quite a lot of energy in reserve. He paced himself with Neville and Ron until the last sprint to the finish, Harry exploded away from the rest, leaving them in his dust. This caught everyone by surprise as Harry who had been behind for the majority of the race was now finished. Harry immediately started jogging lightly on the spot, not wanting to cool down until the end of the workout.
Ron walked up to Harry looking exhausted "that was brilliant mate" he smiled. Harry returned his smile "How did you do it?"
"It's how the muggles do it" Harry replied "They've got this technique figured out."
Ron gave Harry a pat on the back, before laying down onto the grass, trying to regain some energy. Harry looked over at Neville and noticed that Neville wouldn't make eye contact with him. Harry just shrugged it off, figuring that Neville was peeved at losing the race.
They all started on workouts after this. Everyone was already paired up so Harry did the workouts by himself. He quickly remembered how much he enjoyed working out as was finishing up his 50th push up. Alternating between push ups twice Harry had done the workout of two people (according to the rest of the peeps).
Harry got up and stretched his muscles once again, he could feel himself getting stronger as his muscles expanded and contracted according to the various stretches he was doing.
Everyone began to make their way up to the castle, Harry caught up to Neville and Lavender. "Lavender can I talk to you?"
"Um...sure Harry" Lavender replied, caught of guard.
"Can I talk to you alone?" Harry asked, noticing that Neville had stopped also.
"Ill see you later Neville" Lavender told Neville and followed Harry back outside.
"Whats up Harry?"
"I...I just wanted to apologize to you." Harry started.
"For what?"
"Well, for the way I treated you earlier this year, the way I broke up with you, I owe you an explanation."
"You don't have to explain anything Harry, I guess we were just to different."
"No, No that had nothing to do with it, Lavender, look at me, look in my eyes." Lavender complied with Harry's request. "I wasn't in my right mind at the start of the term, I know you probably think that I'm lying to you but I'm not. Im gonna tell you the truth and you can make your own decision, ok?"
Lavender agreed and Harry continued "I was afraid, afraid that Voldemort (Lavender flinched when Harry said it) would come after everyone I cared for, and I didn't want that to happen. That's why I broke up with you, and that's why I started isolating myself from Ron and Hermione. . . It took me a two month coma and running headlong into a Deatheater trap to realize that I have to live my life to the fullest. And what better way to live my life then spend time withe the people I care for?"
Lavender stopped Harry's tirade by planting a kiss on his lips. "If that's all it takes to get you to shut up I would have don't it a long time ago."
Harry gave Lavender a sheepish grin "So you forgive me?"
"I forgave you a long time ago." Lavender replied, taking Harry's hand.
They both walked back to Gryffindor Tower, and went into their separate dormitories to get ready for school.
Harry was drying his hair with a towel when Ron came in.
"So, you and Lavender again? Was wondering when you would come around" Ron teased "don't know what she sees in a skinny little prat like you." Ron chuckled and tossed a pillow at Harry, which Harry easily sidestepped.
"So, you and Hermione? About damn time, I was wondering how much longer you'd be moaning about her at night, seriously I've lost more sleep over those moans then the dreams of Voldemort."
Ron and Harry looked at each other for a moment and simultaneous burst out laughing. Times like these were ones Harry had missed lately and made a mental not to himself to make sure he had more of these times.
Ron and Harry made their way to the Great Hall for some breakfast. "Harry mate, was that thing with Hermione that obvious?"
"Whadya mean?" Harry asked "You mean the whole moaning in bed stuff?"
"Yeah that?" Ron blushed.
Harry let out a laugh "Nah man, I was just pulling your leg."
Ron exhaled, and the two friends made their way to breakfast.
Ron took an empty seat beside Hermione and Neville, while Harry ended up sitting between Lavender and Parvati. Harry was on his 3rd helping of breakfast when Parvati interrupted him.
"Calm down Harry, you're acting like you've never had breakfast before."
Harry looked up from his food, swallowed the last of the eggs in his mouth and replied with his trade mark grin "feels like I haven't had a decent meal in ages." He gave Parvati a wink and set out to conquest breakfast once again.
It felt like Harry had gone through everything on the Gryffindor table before he felt like his stomach was at maximum capacity.
"Missed this Harry" Fred cried from the other end of the table, tossing an apple over to Harry. The table erupted in laughter and Harry bit into the apple. His teeth ran into the plastic surface of the apple and Fred and George went into hysterics. Harry was rubbing his teeth, he had tried to bite the apple at full force.
"What the hell is this?" Harry laughed, trying to hit George on the head with the apple. George easily swatted the apple away with this Beater reflexes and knocked it out of the way. "Some sort of muggle artifact my dad picked up, those muggle's crack me up with their contraptions."
"Better get going, we have Dark Arts first today" Hermione called towards Harry.
Harry and Lavender followed their fellow sixth-years towards the DaDA classroom. "Did know there's a Hogsmeade trip this weekend?" Harry asked Lavender.
[by the way DaDA=defense against the dark arts,so im a lazy fuck, sue me!!]
"Yeah, I caught wind of it" Lavender chuckled.
"Um, yeah, so do you have any plans?"
"Not really, I was thinking about catching up with my Divination homework."
Harry started laughing "You must be kidding me, your not serious, are you?"
Lavender gave him an angry look and she started walking briskly towards the other Gryffindors.
Guess she was Harry thought, jogging to catch up to her.
"Come on Lav, I was only kidding."
"I take Divination seriously Harry" Lavender replied.
"Your not gonna get mad at me for a little joke are you?" Harry said, giving Lavender a puppy dog face.
"Just don't let it happen again" Lavender gave in and laughed at Harry's face. "You look cute like that."
"Do I? I think I could get used to it for you."
"Yeah I love it, it reminds me of my Kneazle back home" Lavender laughed.
"Ok, ok, enough with the jokes. How about this? Instead of spending the day doing divinations, which I am sure is a very interesting, fun, worthwhile, and NOT a complete waste of time. You can spend the day, at Hogsmeade, with your favorite, most lovable, carefree, smart, handsome and most important of all sexy boyfriend!"
"Like a date?" Lavender asked.
"I was thinking more along the lines of a snog fest, but yeah, you could call it a date" Harry chided.
"Haha very funny" Lavender rolled her eyes playfully at Harry.
"So is that a I would love to snog you 'Haha very funny'?" Harry asked.
"It's more like a I would love to spend the day with you 'Haha very funny'" Lavender replied.
"I'll take what I can get" Harry smiled, putting his arm around Lavenders shoulder and pulling her towards him "meet you in your dorm around 6ish?"
"Um, how bout in the common room about 9ish", Lavenders tone changed, she pinched Harry's cheek and as if she was talking to a baby said to Harry "Lets get going to Dark Arts, wouldn't want Dumbledore's pet to be late for class now would we?" With that she jogged away from Harry and made her way to the DaDA classroom.
"I resent that" Harry yelled, following suite.
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Authors Notes
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That raps up this installment. Please read and review!!!!!
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Ha Ha gotcha !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! On with the story
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The rest of the day had been rather uneventful, before he knew it, Harry found himself racing towards the dungeon, trying to make it to the Portkey on time.
Harry burst through the Potions classroom door, sweating and out of breath. "Hurry up Potter, we only have a few seconds" Snape scolded.
Harry raced towards the snitch in Snape's outstretched hand. Harry grasped it just in time and felt a familiar sensation of being sucked into a vacuum. After a few seconds Harry landed on solid ground, he opened his eyes (which had been closed the entire way) and looked for Professor Snape, who had already recovered from the trip.
Harry gathered himself together, after taking a few deep breaths Harry spoke "Ollivanders Professor?"
"Yes Potter, now move along, I don't want to waste my entire evening babysitting you!" Professor Snape's tone was back to the usual hateful one Harry remembered. It didn't take much to figure out that Snape had to make it look like he hated Harry, the wink Snape gave him helped a bit also.
They quickly made their way to Ollivanders, where Harry bought his first wand. Harry thought about how much he had been through with the wand. If it weren't for it Harry would not have escaped Voldemort last summer. He only hoped that his new wand would be as useful.
Ollivanders was as messy and dusty as Harry remembered. The crooked face of mister Ollivander appeared from behind a pile of boxes. "Ah Mr Potter, I have been expecting you" came the raspy old voice "and Severus Snape, maple and viper fang 9 and ½ inches, excellent for curses?"
"Correct Mr Ollivander, we are in a bit of a hurry, can we continue with Harry's wand selection?" Snapes polite tone was back once again.
"It is the wand that chooses the Wizard Professor..." Ollivander started but was interrupted by Snape "We are in a rush, I don't mean to be rude but surely you understand sir?"
"Yes, Yes of course, now Harry hold out your right hand" Harry complied with Mr Ollivanders request, once again the magic tape measure began taking measurements on its own.
"Try this wand Mr Potter, I created about a month ago, I didn't know why I created such a temperamental wand but I think it is the right match for you."
Harry grasped the wand, it was grey with a green tint to it, slightly on the thick side, with a gold tip. Harry gave it a flick and brilliant red and gold sparks shot out the end of it.
"A perfect match, willow and Phoenix feather, 9 inches long, with a gold tip, excellent all-round wand. The willow was donated to me by Professor Dumbledore, from a particular one on Hogwarts grounds."
"The Womping Willow? That thing almost killed me my second year!" Harry cried.
"Just be glad it's on your side now" Professor Snape chuckled as Harry thanked Mr Ollivander and payed for his wand. It was 50 galleons, considerably more expensive then his last one, but well worth it.
Harry and Snape then made their way to The House of Beasts. Harry greeted the two security wizards, who immediately recognized Harry. After granting Professor Snape with a VIP pass Harry opened the black oak door that led to Griphook's office. He greated most of the workers, who either gasped when they saw him, or wouldn't stop squealing with glee. Harry ignored it and made his way to Griphooks office.
As entered he was greeted by Griphooks scratchy voice. "Harry, so good to meet you after several months, I offer my respects for the many hardships the have befallen on you the last few months."
"Don't worry about it, Im a survivor" Harry chucked along with the Goblin "What is this matter we needed to discuss, your letters were very vague."
"I will start with the good news, we will be debt free by the end of March, during our Third Quarter" Harry mulled over the parchments that Griphook handed him.
"That is wonderful Griphook, Im sorry that I haven't been around to help you run the store."
"No worries Mr Potter, your magical education is very important, I understand that. I have been able to adjust to managing this store."
"That's great, so what is the bad news?" Harry asked.
"I have learned from my superiors in Gringnotts that the Ministry is planning some sort of crack down at Hogwarts, Professor Dumbledore know more about this and has planned a meeting with the Great Goblin himself to discuss matters."
"So where do I fit in all this?" Harry asked.
"The Great Goblin has requested that you appear along Professor Dumbledore as a sign of good faith" Griphook replied.
"Me, im just 15, how could I be expected to contribute to the meetings?" Harry couldn't understand why the Goblins would want him at the meeting.
"It is because of the work you and I have accomplished together. Goblins and Wizards, working side by side has not happened for the last 400 years. The Great Goblin and Albus Dumbledore wish to rekindle this bond in light of the current situation. Therefore it is imperative that we are there for the meeting."
"Alright, I'll be there, when is it?" Harry asked.
"Midnight tonight, that is why I suggest you hurry back to Hogwarts and discuss this with Professor Dumbledore" Griphook opened the door for Harry and gave a bow "we shall meet tonight."
Harry returned the bow and quickly made his way outside where Professor Snape was waiting for him. "Lets Go Potter" Harry was greeted with Snapes 'public' attitude once again and followed him to the floo terminals.
They both paid 1 sickle and bellowed "Headmasters Office Hogwarts" and were engulfed by an emerald green flame.
Moments later they both landed in Dumbledores office, Harry charmed the away the dust on his robes and tucked his new wand carefully back into his pocket. Dumbledore was waiting for them at his desk.
"What's wrong Professor?" Harry asked.
"Severus could you please excuse us? This information could be very dangerous if it got into the wrong hands." Professor Dumbledore asked Snape as he passed Harry a parchment.
"Of course Professor, I understand" Snape replied and exited Dumbledores office.
Harry opened the parchment and read out loud:
"By order of the Minister of Magic, under the Care of Dangerous Animals Act of 1764 section 3 - 6c restriction of level 5 animals at schools. Hereby calls for the immediate and unconditional removal of Dragons from the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. You have 5 hours to comply with this order or legal action will be taken.
Thank you for your co-operation.
[Signed]
Cornelius Fudge
Minister of Magic"
Harry was left stunned, how could this be possible? Was Fudge really this thick headed? "So, this is what Griphook was so concerned about? Can they do this Professor?" Harry asked.
"I am afraid so Harry, I received wind of it from some allies in the Ministry, luckily I was able to remove the Dragons from school grounds before I received the letter. Now the letter is invalid and Fudge has no case against me" Dumbledore smiled.
"But then why do we have to meet with the Goblins sir?" Harry asked.
"Ahh that is a good question Harry, Hogwarts needs security, Goblins are very powerful magical creatures, and hiring them to work as security guards is perfectly legal. So I hope we will be able to convince the Great Goblin that this idea would be mutually beneficial."
"How so Professor?" Harry asked.
"I donated the Dragons to Gringnotts as a . . . 'gift'" Dumbledore paused.
"I see where your going with this" Harry smiled "build up our allies against Voldemort, before Voldemort can turn them against us."
"That is correct Harry, now we will be leaving for the meeting at 11:30 pm" Dumbledore flicked his wand and a bed appeared in the corner of his office "I suggest take a rest, I will return to pick you up at that time."
Not wanting to argue with Dumbledore Harry hoped into bed and fell asleep.
Harry woke up at 11:15 sharp, feeling well rested. Dumbledore was polishing his shoes.
"Why don't you use a polishing charm Professor?" Harry asked "wouldn't it be easier?"
"It would be easier, but a little labor never hurt. You've lived with muggle' most of your life, surely you don't use magic for everything?"
"Yeah your right, I hardly even use magic outside of class. Makes me feel lazy when I use it for every little thing" Harry answered.
Dumbledore checked his watch and looked up at Harry "We'd better get going Harry." Dumbledore pulled out a candy wrapper, which Harry correctly assumed was a Portkey. Harry took hold of it while Dumbledore counted down "3 . . . 2 . . . 1" Harry felt the similar vacuum sensation, a few seconds later they landed in a dark, dimly lit corridor.
"Where are we Professor?" Harry asked, his eyes were trying to adjust to the darkness.
"We are at the entrance to the Great Goblins Palace, just follow my lead" Harry nodded his understanding, "lumos" Dumbledore said, causing a bright light to erupt from the tip of his wand, Harry followed suite.
They walked a few meters to what seemed like a door engraved in the rock. Dumbledore placed his free hand, flat on the rock and instructed Harry to follow suite. When Harry's hand was also placed on the rock a sudden warmth engulfed it, as the door disappeared.
"WELCOME", Harry heard the squeaky voice inside his head, just before his eyes glazed over and Harry passed out.
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Real Authors Notes
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l0l hows that? Two chapters fit into one. Shiet I am good hehe.
Lemme know what you think aight?
