He was running. Sprinting. His heart thudded crazily in his rib cage, begging to be let out. His mouth was dry with both terror and anticipation. He flew down the hallways and down the white marble staircase. It seemed easier this time to find his way down. He crossed the long hall in several sprints and found himself looking out into an even bigger hallway. This one, however, was somehow more pleasant. Much more familiar. He hurried across it ,passing two large wooden doors that touched the high ceiling, and stopped abruptly at the entrance. Looking out upon a large grassy yard, he sucked in a breath. It WAS familiar. The grass went on forever, vanishing beneath a creeping thick mass of fog. Small wisps of clearing in the low cloud showed a dark, dense forest behind it. He made to step out of the doorway before a scream froze him to the spot. It came echoing from the forest he had seen earlier. But before he could react, a mighty shove flung him from the grass, fog and stone doorway.
Harry popped open his eyes with a gasp to find himself lying on the floor of the Gryffindor common room, the books and parchments that had been on his lap now strewn all around him. With a groan, he pushed himself up and rubbed the back of his head. Clearly, he had fallen off the chair he had been asleep in, since it was now a few inches from him and tipped over. Harry staggered to his feet and looked around. Light was barely breaking in through the glass windows. With a great yawn, Harry gathered up his things and set the chair right. Light footsteps followed, coming from the staircase to the girls' dormitories. Appearing in her light pink nightgown, was Hermione, hair tied back into a tight braid. She quickly closed the flaps of her robe and walked over to him, frowning.
"Are you alright?"
Harry nodded, still feeling the faint throbbing of the start a rather large bump on the back of his head," Yeah, just dozed off and fell off my chair."
"Oh! Was THAT what it was? I heard a loud thump and went down to see what it was. I thought it was just Crookshanks," Hermione spoke, looking rather relieved. Upon hearing his name, Crookshanks, Herminie's grubby ginger cat, sauntered out from under the table and nudged affectionately at Hermione's leg. She picked him up and hugged him gratefully," Though I knew Crookshanks couldn't have possibly made such a loud noise, with him being so small and all."
Harry rose an eyebrow. Granted, the cat WAS small, it wasn't as if he was an angel. Little git scratched him several times last night when Harry refused to let him bat at the edges of his robes, which was both annoying and damaging. Harry's cloak now had numerous small cuts along the bottom of it thanks to Crookshanks.
"Anyways, I expect today will be pretty busy. What with the Ball this Saturday and all. This week is going to be filled with our teachers giving us last minute assignments and projects to do over Christmas break. Isn't it exciting?" Hermione exclaimed, slightly bouncing in her place.
Harry smiled and shook his head," Only YOU would get excited over extra homework."
Hermione beamed and leaned up to peck Harry's cheek," You'll be sharing the same view soon enough if I have anything to do with it."
And with that, she walked back to the her dorm, leaving Harry looking rather horrified.
Classes hadn't been as bad as he originally thought. All his classes had indeed ended in projects to be done over the three week break, but they were small, Christmas related spells, charms and essays.
For example, in Transfiguration they had been working with rats and turning them into various things. Much to Harry's surprise, Professor McGonagal had requested they attempt the transfiguring of the rats she had given them all into small Christmas trees. She gave them the spell to use and the counter curse. A record of their progress over the break was to be made, along with drawings of each attempt. Extra points were awarded if the trees were decorated and no sign of whiskers or tails were seen.
Professor Flitwick simply wanted them to keep practicing bewitching wrapping paper into folding itself around presents and charming a broom to sweep.
Potions was of course not as easy as the rest. Professor Snape refused to let the holidays be an excuse to slack in their studies. So, he ordered a four page essay on the uses of pine needles and the origin of all pine needle-based potions. Harry didn't even think there were four pages worth of pine needle potions actually in existence. But apparently Snape seemed to think so.
After the end of a Occulmency lesson on Friday, Harry gathered his things and made to walk out as quickly as possible.
"Potter! I would like a word with you."
Harry cringed and looked around. Snape hadn't spoken to him unnecessarily since Harry's statement back in early November. The only words he ever uttered to Harry were the spells for his Occulmency lessons and small criticism during class. Notice of Snape's decreasing taunting of Harry during class was more and more obvious. He now hardly ever passed Harry, and when he did, mumbled some sort of weak insult, though giving Harry practically perfect marks nonetheless.
"Y-Yes, Professor.."
Snape stood behind his desk and beckoned Harry forward. Harry did as he was told and waited anxiously .
"I just wanted to inform you that you have moved up to the second highest grade in the class," Snape muttered coldly, obviously trying to sound not thrilled.
Harry blinked," W-what???"
"Yes, I was quite astonished myself until I got to thinking...You and that Granger have been spending much more time together. Your essays and classwork have improved drastically the past month. Why, I asked myself, would Potter's work change for the better just as he was growing closer to Granger?"
Harry didn't like where this was going, and the oily smirk on Snape's face only increased his wariness," if you think I'm cheating or copying, you're WRONG."
Snape flinched, then snapped back," AM I? I think NOT, Potter. Its impossible for a student who averages between Acceptable and Poor to suddenly sky rocket to Outstanding! I say you're copying!"
Harry's apprehension fizzled as anger boiled in his veins," I do NOT copy! I've only been doing so well because you've stopped breathing down my neck every five seconds! And YES, I DO get help from Hermione, but only occasionally now! Is it just SO hard to believe that I actually understand what you're teaching?!"
It was Snape's turn to blink. It was obvious he was trying to pin something on Harry, his desperate attempts flickering in his black eyes," How DARE you raise your voice to a teacher! I have half a mind to slap you with detention and ban you from the ball!"
"Then do it! I'm sure your claims won't go past McGonagal soon as she hears! I'm INNOCENT! And just because you're still sore because of what my Dad did, you -"
"How DARE you mention that! IT IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS!" Snape bellowed, his pale cheeks flushing with anger.
"EXACTLY! EXACTLY my point! It IS none of my business, but you dragged me into it the moment you started harassing me my first year!," Harry screamed back, feeling his skin tingling with rage.
" Your situation had nothing to do with me! But you blamed ME for everything my father did to you while you were at school! WELL I'M NOT HIM! I never ONCE spun you upside down or humiliated you in front of dozens of people! And I would NEVER do that to another student! SO STOP THINKING I'M JAMES POTTER!"
Snape stumbled back at the force of Harry's voice. All of his screaming had apparently knocked Snape out of his determination to spite and loathe Harry. His eyes flickered emotion as his greasy, black hair hung in ruffled locks around his white face. "I.....I..." he stammered.
"I want nothing from you but an apology," Harry spat, feeling thoroughly disgusted with his Potions professor.
Snape looked at him baffled. The boy paralleled him in height, but his build gave him the impression of someone much bigger. His bright green eyes shot out at him with their fiery rage, almost daring him to continue his ranting of Harry cheating. Standing speechless, Snape fumbled with his hands, not knowing whether to give in or chance going on. What would Harry do anyway?
With a sudden face change, Snape advanced on Harry like an attacking cobra," Apology? APOLOGY, Potter? You deserve no apology-"
"I'm sure Dumbledore would beg to differ." Harry shot back venomously.
Harry's tone had started to scare Snape, never before had he spoken so forcefully and sharp.
"Now, I either want an apology or a promise to never speak to me again. I CAN make your life hell, Professor. Its not only one-sided," Harry threatened, his eyes growing more and more vicious.
Snape rolled this over in his mind. His courage was quickly fading, finding more and more resilience and bravery in young Potter. Being reminded far too much of James, Severus nodded reluctantly and sunk into his chair. He was beat and he hated it.
"Say it..." Harry muttered, not moving an inch.
"Mmsmmsrymm..." Snape mumbled under his breath.
"Excuse me?"
"I'm SORRY," Snape said louder, his cheeks flushing.
"Thank you," and with that, Harry turned round and started to walk out.
"You know...you're more like your father than you think," Snape commented, cementing Harry to the floor.
Harry slowly pivoted, looking over at what was left of his Potions master.
"Yes, I see it in your eyes. He was cruel, of course, but...He always had an air of confidence and a bravery showed in his eyes...Everybody liked him, as they like you...I just thought that you would turn out the same way if no one stamped it out of you...I couldn't allow you to turn out just like him..."
Harry frowned and slide onto a nearby stool. There was an almost sad tone to the professor's voice. It was as though he regretted treating Harry as he did.
"I didn't want you to have a bighead like him...I wanted you to be grounded and sensible. Not arrogant...But as soon as I saw your skill, I knew it'd be hard to not make you vain. No one else saw that you needed a good head on your shoulders in order to beat the Dark Lord...Vanity and arrogance would get you killed, Potter...And...despite how much I loathed your father, I...I couldn't very well see you destroyed by his biggest flaw."
Harry's mouth gaped open in utter shock, his heart thumping madly in his chest," You...You..."
"Yes, Harry...I was trying to protect you..."
//------------
"Protect you?! Is he off his rocker?" Ron exclaimed after Harry told him and Hermione about his argument with Snape.
Harry shrugged ,not taking his eyes off the chessboard where he and Ron were playing Wizard's Chess in the common room.. Commanding his black Knight to H-3, he demolished Ron's white pawn.
"It makes sense though if you think about it, "Hermione added, perched on a chair between the two.
"Snape hates Harry's dad, but yet he keeps getting Harry out of these scraps once in a while. Like back in our first year when Snape refereed Harry's Quidditch game, it was JUST to stop Quirrel from killing Harry, not to stop Gryffindor from winning. Then just last year when he made a fake truth potion for Umbridge AND lied to her when Harry said Padfoot was in trouble, then went to inform the Order. He's helped out a few times..."
Hermione's voice filtered off at the look of plain disbelief on Harry and Ron's faces. "Well, he has..," She mumbled, leaning forward to take the rest of Harry's chocolate frog. She nibbled on it miserably.
"Well, I think he's gone bloody mad. Wouldn't be surprised if he said all that JUST to get you off your guard, Harry," Ron remarked, then made his Queen crush Harry's Knight.
Harry sighed, secretly hoping Snape had told the truth. He WANTED the professor to actually like him...it was just getting to be too much if he continued to hate him just because of James Potter.
A groan came from Hermione as she got up and crossed the room.
"She's getting back into her Prefect swing. You seemed to have distracted her lately, which, by the way, Lee Jordan thanks you for," Ron commented, watching Hermione tell off a third year boy for lighting a little first year's hair on fire with a Weasley Rocket.
Harry couldn't help but smirk. Hermione losing her bossy nerves due to him. It was the other way around in his case. He'd gotten into the habit of taking more notes during class, double checking his homework after he'd finished it, and reading ahead in each of his classes the night before he had them. Granted, he still had his priorities straight (choosing to practice extra for Quidditch rather than study or work on a particularly long essay), his marks had vastly improved nonetheless. His teachers seemed more than pleased, and told him so on countless occasions. Harry shook his head and went back to his game with Ron. After somehow managing to beat Ron for the very first time in their friendship, Harry stood up and said, "Well, I need to take a shower before the ball. You coming?"
Ron was in the process of picking up the board after the pieces had magically restored themselves, "Yeah, in a minute. I need to ask Parvati Patil where she's going to meet me."
"You're going with Parvati?" Harry asked with wide-eyes.
"Yeah. What? You think you're the only good-looking chap alive who can get a date?" Ron asked with a smile.
Harry couldn't help but laugh, "Well ,no...I just didn't think..."
Ron smirked and leaned over extra close and whispered," You haven't seen Parvarti yet, have you?"
Harry raked his brain, never seeming to find a recent image of Parvarti in his memory. Shaking his head, Ron beamed.
"Wait...Just WAIT," Ron replied.
Harry shook his head confused, but left Ron to his puzzles and got up to gather his bathroom things from his bed. Ron entered not too later and set the chessboard ontop of Harry's trunk.
"Wanna come with me to the Prefects bathroom?"
Harry nodded and followed Ron out of the dorm, through the common room and down the hallway. Ron approached the door to the prefects bathroom, unlocked it and stepped inside. The room was as spacious and beautiful as Harry remembered. They each picked a shower stall and closed the door to it. Harry stripped down and tossed his clothes onto a bench against the wall hugging the door closely. Turning on the water and testing it, Harry called out to Ron," So, what's so remarkable about Parvarti this year?"
"Not this year, mate. Its like she blossomed overnight. FULL package. Everything you could want," Ron shouted over the drum of their showerheads.
Harry frowned and started to lather himself up," Like what?"
"Like WHAT? Like CURVES, Harry. You know, curves?"
With a stumped silence, Ron clarified," Hips, Harry. Hips and thighs and rumps and CHESTS. The best part. CHESTS."
Harry felt himself blush and quickly shoved his hands back up to his neck rather than in the spot they had been inches from. "Oh.."
Out of nowhere, a timid, girl's voice asked," Do I have a chest?"
Ron practically screamed while Harry jumped with surprise, slipped and landed butt first on the hard, tile floor. Groaning, he rinsed off the shampoo that had gathered on his face, and looked up with a start to see a transparent, grayish figure hovering at the door of his stall. Harry gasped and quickly covered himself with his hands," MYRTLE! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING!?"
"Myrtle??!" Ron shouted.
The ghost of the teenage girl giggled playfully, eyeing Harry over," My my Harry...you have grown since I saw you last."
Harry blushed furiously and waited until she drifted out of his stall to rush over and grab his towel. He stormed out, seeing Ron do the same, both dripping with water still.
"What's gotten into you, Myrtle! Spying on us like a bloody Peeping Tom!" Harry roared, his face still bright red.
"I'm so sorry, Harry, but...a girl can only resist so much..." Myrtle attempted, a big smile trying not to show on her pallid features.
Harry growled at her, so angry and embarrassed he couldn't even find words.
"I'm going STRAIGHT to Dumbledore and tell him you're spying on guys taking showers!" Ron yelled, his voice echoing in the empty bathroom.
Myrtle's smile dropped immediately," NO! Please, NO! He'll make me leave. I don't want to leave! I'm sorry! I only wanted a peek!"
Harry grumbled furiously to himself and marched back into his stall to dry off and change. He re-emerged in jeans and a blue shirt." We won't tell anyone Myrtle, but you've GOT to swear you won't spy on anyone else."
"I promise. I only wanted to see YOU Harry," She finished with a giggle and zoomed off.
Harry and Ron trudged back to the common room, rubbing towels in their hair." Leave it to the famous Harry Potter to even get DEAD girls chasing after him."
Harry chuckled and climbed the stairs back to their room. It only took them about five minutes to change into their dress robes. Harry's seemed to fit perfectly this year. Before, they were baggy and hung in all the wrong places. Now that he had filled out, his robes did too. The tops clung to his chest and arms, while his pants gripped his legs in a rather flattering way. Harry clipped his cloak in place, then went to help Ron with his tricky chains and buttons.
"Gah, there're so many you'd suspect a button machine went off when they were making this lot!" He complained, giving up on a clasp to let Harry do it.
They looked themselves over in the mirror just as Dean Thomas, Seamus Finnigan and Neville Longbottom came into the room, they too in their dress robes.
"Gran bought me a size too big. Look! It hangs all over the place! " Neville groaned, yanking at the floppy patch of cloth beneath his arms, around his waist and sleeves.
Harry smiled and walked over to him. He grabbed a pin from a pile he had used for his own robes and started on Neville's. He pinned the excess beneath Neville's arms inward, so the sleeves fit snuggly around his arms, then rolled his cuffs also inward and pinned them in place. As for his waist, Harry rolled it slightly and pinned, making it look as if it was a simple crease down both of Neville's legs.
Harry stepped back and let Neville look himself over in the mirror, "Wow, Harry! Thanks! It looks just fine now!"
Harry beamed and walked over to a different mirror, allowing Neville to bask in his new robes' appearance. Harry squinted at his own reflection, seeing his messy, slightly damp hair lying in its original state of chaos. He grabbed a comb and ran it through his hair several times, taming it somewhat. He then parted it on the side, covering his scar completely. With a nod, Harry walked over to his bedside table, grabbed a box he kept his extra contacts and contact solution in and wandered back over to the mirror. Almost professionally, Harry put on fresh contacts and placed the old ones back in their container. Looking over, he saw the other four boys staring at him in awe.
"Doesn't that hurt?" asked Ron.
"Nah, my uncle has contacts. Supposed to feel like nothing at all," Dean replied. Harry remembered Dean was brought up in a Muggle family and was accustomed to its strangeness already.
"So, who do you think that Muggle/Wizard band is?" Seamus asked, sitting down carefully on the edge of his bed.
"I hope its The Clash," Harry thought out loud. Only too late, he realized what he had done. Ron, Neville and Seamus gave him confused looks while Dean burst out laughing.
"The CLASH? You fancy them?" he asked through his guffaws.
Harry scowled at Dean, "HEY! The Clash are the BEST band ever! They surpass any other band!"
All 3 wizard boys kept their puzzled looks, obviously not in on the joke.
"The...Clash?" Seamus asked.
"They're this Muggle band from the early 80's. Kind of on the pu-" Dean started, then remembered that none of them aside from himself and Harry would know what 'punk' meant.
"They're kind of geeky. Now, give me some alternative or rock ANY day."
"They are NOT geeky! " Harry said indignantly." Over the summer I managed to steal Dudley's guitar and practiced all the time to their music."
"You can play the guitar?" Ron asked amazed.
"Well, not superbly. But I can hold my own, yeah," Harry replied.
"Oi! We're late!" Neville suddenly shouted.
Indeed, it was a ten to seven and they were supposed to be gathering on the landing to the third floor corridor in five minutes. The five boys quickly finished their grooming and zoomed down to the Gryffindor common room to find each of their five dates waiting, high-heeled toes tapping irritably.
Harry hurried sheepishly over to Hermione, who shot him only a slightly annoyed look, took his arm and lead the way out. About ten minutes later, they arrived on the landing to find others being lead inside a door down the hall.
The group quickly followed and filtered inside.
"Wasn't this where the Sorcerer's Stone was hidden?" Ron asked somewhere behind him and Hermione.
"Oh yeah! " She exclaimed." Horrid place to have a dance, don't you think?"
But the reality of Hermione's comment was very wrong. Yes, the long corridor to the room was still lit by motion-sensor torches, but the room that once held a massive, three-headed dog was now empty, except for the huge hovering crystal chandeliers, dozens of circular tables scattered alongside the wooden, square dance floor and a platform where musical equipment were already set up. Candles littered the air, floating near the ceiling which was bewitched to mimic a beautiful, starry sky.
"Wow, this room is BEAUTIFUL," Hermione gasped.
Harry leaned over and whispered in her ear," Not as beautiful as you though."
Hermione blushed madly, a grin making her eyes light up like the crystal.
Soon, they were all seated round two of the circular tables. For some reason Harry didn't feel as nervous as he did at the Yule Ball. Probably because he knew he wasn't expected to lead a dance or be gawked at the entire time because he was a Champion.
Professor Dumbledore followed by the rest of the teaching staff filed into the room and sat at a long table at the back of the room. With a loud clap made by Dumbledore, the room quieted down and he began," Thank you all for coming sixth years. I'm sure this is to be an enchanting evening for us all. I'm also sure many of you are asking yourselves WHAT we're doing in the third floor corridor, on the right hand side. Well, simple...Thought a change of scenery would be wonderful...Though, I'm sad to say, some of you," Dumbledore gave Harry, Ron and Hermione a look with a secret smile," Have already had the pleasure of visiting these premises."
The whole lot of the room looked over at the three, who had blushed at the mention of their previous encounter with the room.
"Now, without any further ado. I would like to present the simply fabulous band. The Ataris!"
The room gasped as the band ran onstage. It seemed only a scarce few were applauding, including Dean and Harry.
The band hopped onstage and the lead singer laughed into the mike," Its alright guys. We know what we're doing...How 'bout we let our hair down and have some fun?"
The room seemed to loosen up at their friendly demeanor and the band began to play a fast, upbeat song. Seeing as no one got up to dance, Harry took it upon himself to show The Ataris that they were wanted. So, Harry quickly grabbed Hermione's hand and lead her to the dance floor.
Gah, you get a break from dancing solo, and you go ahead and do it by CHOICE!, He complained to himself.
His friends caught on and quickly followed, causing a slow rift in the moods of their classmates. One by 1, couples littered the dance floor till it was packed and everyone was enjoying the music.
Harry found himself dancing to several songs, including some of their slow ones. Hermione enjoyed the slow ones to the fast, saying they allowed her to get better acquainted with him. This made him smile.
Before long, Harry was peeling off his jacket, finding the rhythm easier after each song. Soon, he was dancing somewhat normally and didn't feel foolish with his lack of dancing skills.
Three hours later, the band took an intermission, letting the couples filter back to their tables and take some well deserved rest.
"Gah, I've never danced so long in my entire life!" Ron groaned, sliding off his shoes and rubbing his sore feet.
Harry had to agree, his feet were also complaining in his dress shoes. He was now wishing he had opted for his school shoes rather than these black bear traps they dared call shoes.
"You're one to talk, look at MY shoes!" Hermione exclaimed, flexing her toes that were crammed in her pink high heels." They're torture devices posing as footwear!"
Harry smiled then noticed some commotion going on in the far end of the room. From what he could see, The Ataris were surrounded by some of the teachers and Madam Pomfrey was quickly scuttling towards them. Frowning, he got up and hurried over as did a few other people.
Nudging his way to the front, he saw the lead singer sitting on the floor, coughing up frogs.
A boy Harry recognized as a fourth year was standing nearby, looking grief stricken.
"I didn't mean to! I SWEAR! Gregory Smut was supposed to eat it, not him!"
Harry looked over at the boy fingered Gregory and saw him looking rather pale. Harry sighed and crossed his arms as Madam Pomfrey escorted the frog-mouthed singer away ,to the infirmary no doubt.
"What now???" One of the other band members exclaimed." We can't leave until midnight, our portkey won't work until then."
"We NEED a replacement," said another member. The three looked at each other devastated.
"What about one of us students?" Dean asked from nowhere.
Harry looked over his shoulder and saw Dean watching the band from behind him.
"Well...yeah, sure. If anyone knows any of our songs ,can carry a tune and can manage basic guitar notes," the first band member said.
Dean beamed and patted Harry heavily on the shoulder," This one does!"
Harry's mouth dropped as everyone turned to look at him incredulously. "Wait, no...I mean...I can't.."
"Can you play?" The bassist asked.
"Well...y-yeah...I'm not horrible, I mean..." Harry stammered.
"That's settled then, you'll fill in for Kris. I'm Mike," The bassist said, then pointed to the other two in turn." That's John,he's backup guitar and vocals, and that's Kid, he's drums. You'll be lead guitar. Think you can handle an electric?" Mike added, quickly hurrying Harry towards the stage. But before he could answer, they had ushered him to the main microphone and shoved a guitar in his hands. Harry stared at it dumbfounded, wondering if he knew any spells to torture Dean for all eternity. Death was just too gracious in his case. Slowly looking up, he saw every eye on him. Dumbledore seemed particularly pleased, sitting rather upright in his chair as the other teachers settled themselves in besides him. Harry stared at the mic, unable to find his voice.
"We're back ladies and gents...Now, I know you're all wondering ' WHAT is that kid doing up there?' Well, the answer is simple...Our lead guitarist, Kris, got a hold of some cursed cupcakes and is now spitting up frogs in the hospital wing." With this, Mike eyed the fourth year who was looking even more pale than before." This lad was kind enough to volunteer and keep the party going. Lets give him a hand!"
Harry could NOT believe this was happening to him. Somehow, he always managed to get himself in the spotlight, saving the day in SOME fashion. This was the first though that didn't involve magic or anyone in grave peril. He wasn't used to regular crisis's. He was almost not prepared for them. But, with a deep breath, he took a step towards the mic, leaving his lips inches from it.
He glanced sideways and saw Mike looking at him.
"Know 'In This Diary'?" he mouthed.
Harry nodded dumbly and tried to remember the beginning notes. When they entered his brain, he started the solo pluck at the chords. The sound that echoed from the speakers was like nothing he had ever experienced before. And upon his lips parting to form the first lines, the band added each of their instruments to form the beat of the song.
"Here in this diary, I write you visions of my summer. It was the BEST I ever had. There were choruses and sing along and not a spoken feelings. I'm knowing that right now is all that matters," Harry sang, quite taken aback by the smooth voice that greeted each lyric. This was his first time singing, and to his utter surprise, he could SING.
"All the nights we stayed up talking and listening to 80's songs; quoting lines from all those movies that we love. It still brings a smile to my face...I guess when it comes down to it..." He continued, looking up from his fingers to see most of the room dancing to the song. The commotion made him flush, sending a rush of adrenaline surging through his veins, bringing out a grin.
"Being grown up isn't half as fun as growing up: These are the best days of our lives. The only thing that matters is just following your heart and eventually you'll finally get it right," The band sang together, probably more amazed he could sing than Harry himself. Nonetheless, Harry had never enjoyed himself more than this second. He was singing in a band like a regular teenager to a crowd who enjoyed his playing. Granted, they weren't his lyrics, it still felt like HIS moment.
"Breaking into hotel swimming pools, and wreaking havoc on our world. Hanging out at truck stops just to pass the time. The black top's singing me to sleep." He found himself relishing each chord more and more, smiling wider and playing the part.
"Lighting fireworks in parking lots, illuminate the blackest nights. Cherry cokes under this moonlight summer sky. 2015 Riverside, it's time to say, "goodbye." Get on the bus, it's time to go...Being grown up isn't half as fun as growing up: These are the best days of our lives. The only thing that matters is just following your heart, and eventually you'll finally get it right..."
The band repeated the chorus to the fulfillment of the crowd, who roared with applause at the end of the song. Harry felt his cheeks aching with his grin, knowing he was blushing just as hard as he breathing. The euphoria hung thickly around him, making him Harry, but a different Harry...And he liked it. The Ataris had him stand in well past midnight, the students never getting enough. But at last, the party had to end.
Walking them over to the infirmary, Harry held onto Kris' guitar like it was a priceless treasure.
"Liked it, huh?" John asked, heaving his guitar case alongside him.
Harry smiled, pulled his wand from his cloak's pocket and pointed it at the band's cases saying Locomotor equipment. The drums, guitar and bass cases, the two amps and speakers levitated off the ground and floated infront of the grateful members. "Thanks, guy. That's some pretty good wand waving," Kid complimented, twirling his drumstick around his fingers.
"Yeah, we left our wands on the bus. Completely forgot to bring them along...Been so long since we had a wizard gig, yanno?" Mike said, leading the way inside the infirmary.
"So, why DO you play both worlds? Aren't you scared you'll get caught?" Harry couldn't help but ask as he stood a bit away from the others and Kris' bed.
"Pays more for one...plus, we're Muggle-born. Just because we love music, doesn't mean we have to choose just ONE world. We love both, they're our homes." Kris muttered weakly, his throat obviously sore from coughing for over two hours.
Harry nodded, knowing it made more than enough sense. It was almost noble.
"Thanks for standing in for me, kid," Kris continued, despite Madam Pomfrey's wary looks. "By the way, whats your name?"
"Oh, sorry...I'm Harry. Harry Potter."
All four members dropped their jaws and lost their voice.
"H-Harry...POTTER?" Mike squeaked, sounding more like a trapped mouse than a singer in a band.
"Like the Harry Potter?" Kid inquired, looking at Harry in awe.
"As in 'I-survived-You-know-who-when-I-was-a-baby' Harry Potter?" John pressed on, disbelief streaked across his face.
Harry blushed furiously," Um, well, yeeaaahh...."
"WOW! Harry 'FRIGGIN' Potter, man!" Kid exclaimed.
"We had Harry POTTER play with us!" Mike shouted, grinning proudly.
"Would you boys PLEASE keep your voices down! For heaven's sake, this is an infirmary, not a party!" Madam Pomfrey scolded." Now, Potter, I'm sure these find young lads are grateful for your help, but we really must get them along. Their portkey will be expiring very soon."
Harry nodded and guided their equipment behind them as they helped Kris onto his feet and walked him to a tree that seemed to have popped out of nowhere. His only guess was that Dumbledore put it there for them especially.
"Why'd you use a portkey, anyway?" Harry asked, setting down their equipment besides them as they circled around the tree.
"Easier, don't you know. That blasted Knight Bus always cost us more trouble than convenience. Lost two guitars, a bass and FOUR sets of drums to that nutty driver." Kid explained, tethering a rope around his drum set then around his waist. The others did the same, tying a rope to their instrument, then to themselves.
Harry shrugged and backed up next to Madam Pomfrey. The band waved, reached out to touch the tree, then vanished in a swirl of color. Harry sighed and turned, following Pomfrey back to the school. She ushered Harry back upstairs to get some food into his stomach, then left for bed. Harry trotted back to the ball, finding it was half empty, and some enchanted instruments were playing neutral music.
Hermione rushed up to him and hugged him frantically, "Oh my god, Harry! You were WONDEFUL! I didn't know you could play!"
Harry found himself blushing once more as his friends gathered round him.
"Seriously, Harry. That was sensational. I even plum forgot you weren't apart of the band," Dean commented.
"You have a beautiful voice, too,' Ginny added, blushing her usual blush.
Harry smiled, not being able to help himself," Thanks guys...I honestly didn't think I could pull it off-"
"I bet you LOVED that, Potter," a voice snapped from somewhere behind him.
Harry turned and saw Draco Malfoy standing with his arms crossed, obviously very put off. Not a moment went by then Crabbe and Goyle caught up and flanked him.
"The fabulous, famous Harry Potter...threes nothing he can't do," Malfoy continued, looking more and more jealous by the minute.
Harry glared, turning from Hermione's tight grasp too look him straight on," Jealous much?"
Malfoy blinked, then quickly reestablished his scowl," Jealous, Potter!? Of what, YOU?! Just because you're a bloody canary doesn't mean you're better than everybody else."
Harry smirked," Not everybody. Just you."
Draco scowled more, stepping forward, again quickly sided by his bodyguards, Crabbe and Goyle.
Harry eyed them over, noticing their robes two sizes too small. Draco's was of the blackest silk, off setting his pale features and blonde-white hair. Harry couldn't help the surge of egotism that surfaced and tumbled from his mouth before he could think," If I were you, MALFOY, I'd clear out before I show you EXACTLY why I keep defeating your friend, Voldemort."
Draco spat fireworks. Like lightning, he lunged at Harry. Harry quickly side-stepped his assault and let Malfoy fall to the ground, his fists empty of Harry-flesh. Dean, Ron and Neville stood in the way of Crabbe and Goyle's second attack on Harry. Before Draco could get to his feet and try again, a group of boys stood in his way, blocking any further assaults on Harry.Harry smirked smugly, despite himself. He knew he had far more friends than Malfoy, and they were of the loyal kind.
Draco, Crabbe and Goyle stalked off, leaving Harry and his friends to laugh them out of the room.
Hermione was the only one not enjoying the sight of a humiliated Malfoy.
"Did anyone notice Malfoy before this? I don't think I've seen him since the beginning of the year..."
Harry turned and looked at her.
"He was probably hiding out, you know. Since his father's been labeled a Death Eater and all," Neville offered.
Hermione sighed and looked up at Harry. She smiled immediately and wrapped her arms around him," You never cease to amaze me."
"How about one more time?" He asked, grinning.
She stared at him in wonder, tilting her head a bit," What?"
"Hermione..."Harry started, seeing the anxiousness in her twinkling brown eyes." Would you be my girlfriend?"
Hermione beamed far past any normal beam. She leapt at him, hugging him tighter than ever," Of COURSE, Harry! Of COURSE!"
The rest of the dance was a blur, where Harry found himself and the others back in the Gryffindor common room, finishing the party with the rest of the Gryffindors well into Sunday morning. All the while, Harry not being able to cease a blush or get feeling back into his shoulders from being patted so often.
Harry popped open his eyes with a gasp to find himself lying on the floor of the Gryffindor common room, the books and parchments that had been on his lap now strewn all around him. With a groan, he pushed himself up and rubbed the back of his head. Clearly, he had fallen off the chair he had been asleep in, since it was now a few inches from him and tipped over. Harry staggered to his feet and looked around. Light was barely breaking in through the glass windows. With a great yawn, Harry gathered up his things and set the chair right. Light footsteps followed, coming from the staircase to the girls' dormitories. Appearing in her light pink nightgown, was Hermione, hair tied back into a tight braid. She quickly closed the flaps of her robe and walked over to him, frowning.
"Are you alright?"
Harry nodded, still feeling the faint throbbing of the start a rather large bump on the back of his head," Yeah, just dozed off and fell off my chair."
"Oh! Was THAT what it was? I heard a loud thump and went down to see what it was. I thought it was just Crookshanks," Hermione spoke, looking rather relieved. Upon hearing his name, Crookshanks, Herminie's grubby ginger cat, sauntered out from under the table and nudged affectionately at Hermione's leg. She picked him up and hugged him gratefully," Though I knew Crookshanks couldn't have possibly made such a loud noise, with him being so small and all."
Harry rose an eyebrow. Granted, the cat WAS small, it wasn't as if he was an angel. Little git scratched him several times last night when Harry refused to let him bat at the edges of his robes, which was both annoying and damaging. Harry's cloak now had numerous small cuts along the bottom of it thanks to Crookshanks.
"Anyways, I expect today will be pretty busy. What with the Ball this Saturday and all. This week is going to be filled with our teachers giving us last minute assignments and projects to do over Christmas break. Isn't it exciting?" Hermione exclaimed, slightly bouncing in her place.
Harry smiled and shook his head," Only YOU would get excited over extra homework."
Hermione beamed and leaned up to peck Harry's cheek," You'll be sharing the same view soon enough if I have anything to do with it."
And with that, she walked back to the her dorm, leaving Harry looking rather horrified.
Classes hadn't been as bad as he originally thought. All his classes had indeed ended in projects to be done over the three week break, but they were small, Christmas related spells, charms and essays.
For example, in Transfiguration they had been working with rats and turning them into various things. Much to Harry's surprise, Professor McGonagal had requested they attempt the transfiguring of the rats she had given them all into small Christmas trees. She gave them the spell to use and the counter curse. A record of their progress over the break was to be made, along with drawings of each attempt. Extra points were awarded if the trees were decorated and no sign of whiskers or tails were seen.
Professor Flitwick simply wanted them to keep practicing bewitching wrapping paper into folding itself around presents and charming a broom to sweep.
Potions was of course not as easy as the rest. Professor Snape refused to let the holidays be an excuse to slack in their studies. So, he ordered a four page essay on the uses of pine needles and the origin of all pine needle-based potions. Harry didn't even think there were four pages worth of pine needle potions actually in existence. But apparently Snape seemed to think so.
After the end of a Occulmency lesson on Friday, Harry gathered his things and made to walk out as quickly as possible.
"Potter! I would like a word with you."
Harry cringed and looked around. Snape hadn't spoken to him unnecessarily since Harry's statement back in early November. The only words he ever uttered to Harry were the spells for his Occulmency lessons and small criticism during class. Notice of Snape's decreasing taunting of Harry during class was more and more obvious. He now hardly ever passed Harry, and when he did, mumbled some sort of weak insult, though giving Harry practically perfect marks nonetheless.
"Y-Yes, Professor.."
Snape stood behind his desk and beckoned Harry forward. Harry did as he was told and waited anxiously .
"I just wanted to inform you that you have moved up to the second highest grade in the class," Snape muttered coldly, obviously trying to sound not thrilled.
Harry blinked," W-what???"
"Yes, I was quite astonished myself until I got to thinking...You and that Granger have been spending much more time together. Your essays and classwork have improved drastically the past month. Why, I asked myself, would Potter's work change for the better just as he was growing closer to Granger?"
Harry didn't like where this was going, and the oily smirk on Snape's face only increased his wariness," if you think I'm cheating or copying, you're WRONG."
Snape flinched, then snapped back," AM I? I think NOT, Potter. Its impossible for a student who averages between Acceptable and Poor to suddenly sky rocket to Outstanding! I say you're copying!"
Harry's apprehension fizzled as anger boiled in his veins," I do NOT copy! I've only been doing so well because you've stopped breathing down my neck every five seconds! And YES, I DO get help from Hermione, but only occasionally now! Is it just SO hard to believe that I actually understand what you're teaching?!"
It was Snape's turn to blink. It was obvious he was trying to pin something on Harry, his desperate attempts flickering in his black eyes," How DARE you raise your voice to a teacher! I have half a mind to slap you with detention and ban you from the ball!"
"Then do it! I'm sure your claims won't go past McGonagal soon as she hears! I'm INNOCENT! And just because you're still sore because of what my Dad did, you -"
"How DARE you mention that! IT IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS!" Snape bellowed, his pale cheeks flushing with anger.
"EXACTLY! EXACTLY my point! It IS none of my business, but you dragged me into it the moment you started harassing me my first year!," Harry screamed back, feeling his skin tingling with rage.
" Your situation had nothing to do with me! But you blamed ME for everything my father did to you while you were at school! WELL I'M NOT HIM! I never ONCE spun you upside down or humiliated you in front of dozens of people! And I would NEVER do that to another student! SO STOP THINKING I'M JAMES POTTER!"
Snape stumbled back at the force of Harry's voice. All of his screaming had apparently knocked Snape out of his determination to spite and loathe Harry. His eyes flickered emotion as his greasy, black hair hung in ruffled locks around his white face. "I.....I..." he stammered.
"I want nothing from you but an apology," Harry spat, feeling thoroughly disgusted with his Potions professor.
Snape looked at him baffled. The boy paralleled him in height, but his build gave him the impression of someone much bigger. His bright green eyes shot out at him with their fiery rage, almost daring him to continue his ranting of Harry cheating. Standing speechless, Snape fumbled with his hands, not knowing whether to give in or chance going on. What would Harry do anyway?
With a sudden face change, Snape advanced on Harry like an attacking cobra," Apology? APOLOGY, Potter? You deserve no apology-"
"I'm sure Dumbledore would beg to differ." Harry shot back venomously.
Harry's tone had started to scare Snape, never before had he spoken so forcefully and sharp.
"Now, I either want an apology or a promise to never speak to me again. I CAN make your life hell, Professor. Its not only one-sided," Harry threatened, his eyes growing more and more vicious.
Snape rolled this over in his mind. His courage was quickly fading, finding more and more resilience and bravery in young Potter. Being reminded far too much of James, Severus nodded reluctantly and sunk into his chair. He was beat and he hated it.
"Say it..." Harry muttered, not moving an inch.
"Mmsmmsrymm..." Snape mumbled under his breath.
"Excuse me?"
"I'm SORRY," Snape said louder, his cheeks flushing.
"Thank you," and with that, Harry turned round and started to walk out.
"You know...you're more like your father than you think," Snape commented, cementing Harry to the floor.
Harry slowly pivoted, looking over at what was left of his Potions master.
"Yes, I see it in your eyes. He was cruel, of course, but...He always had an air of confidence and a bravery showed in his eyes...Everybody liked him, as they like you...I just thought that you would turn out the same way if no one stamped it out of you...I couldn't allow you to turn out just like him..."
Harry frowned and slide onto a nearby stool. There was an almost sad tone to the professor's voice. It was as though he regretted treating Harry as he did.
"I didn't want you to have a bighead like him...I wanted you to be grounded and sensible. Not arrogant...But as soon as I saw your skill, I knew it'd be hard to not make you vain. No one else saw that you needed a good head on your shoulders in order to beat the Dark Lord...Vanity and arrogance would get you killed, Potter...And...despite how much I loathed your father, I...I couldn't very well see you destroyed by his biggest flaw."
Harry's mouth gaped open in utter shock, his heart thumping madly in his chest," You...You..."
"Yes, Harry...I was trying to protect you..."
//------------
"Protect you?! Is he off his rocker?" Ron exclaimed after Harry told him and Hermione about his argument with Snape.
Harry shrugged ,not taking his eyes off the chessboard where he and Ron were playing Wizard's Chess in the common room.. Commanding his black Knight to H-3, he demolished Ron's white pawn.
"It makes sense though if you think about it, "Hermione added, perched on a chair between the two.
"Snape hates Harry's dad, but yet he keeps getting Harry out of these scraps once in a while. Like back in our first year when Snape refereed Harry's Quidditch game, it was JUST to stop Quirrel from killing Harry, not to stop Gryffindor from winning. Then just last year when he made a fake truth potion for Umbridge AND lied to her when Harry said Padfoot was in trouble, then went to inform the Order. He's helped out a few times..."
Hermione's voice filtered off at the look of plain disbelief on Harry and Ron's faces. "Well, he has..," She mumbled, leaning forward to take the rest of Harry's chocolate frog. She nibbled on it miserably.
"Well, I think he's gone bloody mad. Wouldn't be surprised if he said all that JUST to get you off your guard, Harry," Ron remarked, then made his Queen crush Harry's Knight.
Harry sighed, secretly hoping Snape had told the truth. He WANTED the professor to actually like him...it was just getting to be too much if he continued to hate him just because of James Potter.
A groan came from Hermione as she got up and crossed the room.
"She's getting back into her Prefect swing. You seemed to have distracted her lately, which, by the way, Lee Jordan thanks you for," Ron commented, watching Hermione tell off a third year boy for lighting a little first year's hair on fire with a Weasley Rocket.
Harry couldn't help but smirk. Hermione losing her bossy nerves due to him. It was the other way around in his case. He'd gotten into the habit of taking more notes during class, double checking his homework after he'd finished it, and reading ahead in each of his classes the night before he had them. Granted, he still had his priorities straight (choosing to practice extra for Quidditch rather than study or work on a particularly long essay), his marks had vastly improved nonetheless. His teachers seemed more than pleased, and told him so on countless occasions. Harry shook his head and went back to his game with Ron. After somehow managing to beat Ron for the very first time in their friendship, Harry stood up and said, "Well, I need to take a shower before the ball. You coming?"
Ron was in the process of picking up the board after the pieces had magically restored themselves, "Yeah, in a minute. I need to ask Parvati Patil where she's going to meet me."
"You're going with Parvati?" Harry asked with wide-eyes.
"Yeah. What? You think you're the only good-looking chap alive who can get a date?" Ron asked with a smile.
Harry couldn't help but laugh, "Well ,no...I just didn't think..."
Ron smirked and leaned over extra close and whispered," You haven't seen Parvarti yet, have you?"
Harry raked his brain, never seeming to find a recent image of Parvarti in his memory. Shaking his head, Ron beamed.
"Wait...Just WAIT," Ron replied.
Harry shook his head confused, but left Ron to his puzzles and got up to gather his bathroom things from his bed. Ron entered not too later and set the chessboard ontop of Harry's trunk.
"Wanna come with me to the Prefects bathroom?"
Harry nodded and followed Ron out of the dorm, through the common room and down the hallway. Ron approached the door to the prefects bathroom, unlocked it and stepped inside. The room was as spacious and beautiful as Harry remembered. They each picked a shower stall and closed the door to it. Harry stripped down and tossed his clothes onto a bench against the wall hugging the door closely. Turning on the water and testing it, Harry called out to Ron," So, what's so remarkable about Parvarti this year?"
"Not this year, mate. Its like she blossomed overnight. FULL package. Everything you could want," Ron shouted over the drum of their showerheads.
Harry frowned and started to lather himself up," Like what?"
"Like WHAT? Like CURVES, Harry. You know, curves?"
With a stumped silence, Ron clarified," Hips, Harry. Hips and thighs and rumps and CHESTS. The best part. CHESTS."
Harry felt himself blush and quickly shoved his hands back up to his neck rather than in the spot they had been inches from. "Oh.."
Out of nowhere, a timid, girl's voice asked," Do I have a chest?"
Ron practically screamed while Harry jumped with surprise, slipped and landed butt first on the hard, tile floor. Groaning, he rinsed off the shampoo that had gathered on his face, and looked up with a start to see a transparent, grayish figure hovering at the door of his stall. Harry gasped and quickly covered himself with his hands," MYRTLE! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING!?"
"Myrtle??!" Ron shouted.
The ghost of the teenage girl giggled playfully, eyeing Harry over," My my Harry...you have grown since I saw you last."
Harry blushed furiously and waited until she drifted out of his stall to rush over and grab his towel. He stormed out, seeing Ron do the same, both dripping with water still.
"What's gotten into you, Myrtle! Spying on us like a bloody Peeping Tom!" Harry roared, his face still bright red.
"I'm so sorry, Harry, but...a girl can only resist so much..." Myrtle attempted, a big smile trying not to show on her pallid features.
Harry growled at her, so angry and embarrassed he couldn't even find words.
"I'm going STRAIGHT to Dumbledore and tell him you're spying on guys taking showers!" Ron yelled, his voice echoing in the empty bathroom.
Myrtle's smile dropped immediately," NO! Please, NO! He'll make me leave. I don't want to leave! I'm sorry! I only wanted a peek!"
Harry grumbled furiously to himself and marched back into his stall to dry off and change. He re-emerged in jeans and a blue shirt." We won't tell anyone Myrtle, but you've GOT to swear you won't spy on anyone else."
"I promise. I only wanted to see YOU Harry," She finished with a giggle and zoomed off.
Harry and Ron trudged back to the common room, rubbing towels in their hair." Leave it to the famous Harry Potter to even get DEAD girls chasing after him."
Harry chuckled and climbed the stairs back to their room. It only took them about five minutes to change into their dress robes. Harry's seemed to fit perfectly this year. Before, they were baggy and hung in all the wrong places. Now that he had filled out, his robes did too. The tops clung to his chest and arms, while his pants gripped his legs in a rather flattering way. Harry clipped his cloak in place, then went to help Ron with his tricky chains and buttons.
"Gah, there're so many you'd suspect a button machine went off when they were making this lot!" He complained, giving up on a clasp to let Harry do it.
They looked themselves over in the mirror just as Dean Thomas, Seamus Finnigan and Neville Longbottom came into the room, they too in their dress robes.
"Gran bought me a size too big. Look! It hangs all over the place! " Neville groaned, yanking at the floppy patch of cloth beneath his arms, around his waist and sleeves.
Harry smiled and walked over to him. He grabbed a pin from a pile he had used for his own robes and started on Neville's. He pinned the excess beneath Neville's arms inward, so the sleeves fit snuggly around his arms, then rolled his cuffs also inward and pinned them in place. As for his waist, Harry rolled it slightly and pinned, making it look as if it was a simple crease down both of Neville's legs.
Harry stepped back and let Neville look himself over in the mirror, "Wow, Harry! Thanks! It looks just fine now!"
Harry beamed and walked over to a different mirror, allowing Neville to bask in his new robes' appearance. Harry squinted at his own reflection, seeing his messy, slightly damp hair lying in its original state of chaos. He grabbed a comb and ran it through his hair several times, taming it somewhat. He then parted it on the side, covering his scar completely. With a nod, Harry walked over to his bedside table, grabbed a box he kept his extra contacts and contact solution in and wandered back over to the mirror. Almost professionally, Harry put on fresh contacts and placed the old ones back in their container. Looking over, he saw the other four boys staring at him in awe.
"Doesn't that hurt?" asked Ron.
"Nah, my uncle has contacts. Supposed to feel like nothing at all," Dean replied. Harry remembered Dean was brought up in a Muggle family and was accustomed to its strangeness already.
"So, who do you think that Muggle/Wizard band is?" Seamus asked, sitting down carefully on the edge of his bed.
"I hope its The Clash," Harry thought out loud. Only too late, he realized what he had done. Ron, Neville and Seamus gave him confused looks while Dean burst out laughing.
"The CLASH? You fancy them?" he asked through his guffaws.
Harry scowled at Dean, "HEY! The Clash are the BEST band ever! They surpass any other band!"
All 3 wizard boys kept their puzzled looks, obviously not in on the joke.
"The...Clash?" Seamus asked.
"They're this Muggle band from the early 80's. Kind of on the pu-" Dean started, then remembered that none of them aside from himself and Harry would know what 'punk' meant.
"They're kind of geeky. Now, give me some alternative or rock ANY day."
"They are NOT geeky! " Harry said indignantly." Over the summer I managed to steal Dudley's guitar and practiced all the time to their music."
"You can play the guitar?" Ron asked amazed.
"Well, not superbly. But I can hold my own, yeah," Harry replied.
"Oi! We're late!" Neville suddenly shouted.
Indeed, it was a ten to seven and they were supposed to be gathering on the landing to the third floor corridor in five minutes. The five boys quickly finished their grooming and zoomed down to the Gryffindor common room to find each of their five dates waiting, high-heeled toes tapping irritably.
Harry hurried sheepishly over to Hermione, who shot him only a slightly annoyed look, took his arm and lead the way out. About ten minutes later, they arrived on the landing to find others being lead inside a door down the hall.
The group quickly followed and filtered inside.
"Wasn't this where the Sorcerer's Stone was hidden?" Ron asked somewhere behind him and Hermione.
"Oh yeah! " She exclaimed." Horrid place to have a dance, don't you think?"
But the reality of Hermione's comment was very wrong. Yes, the long corridor to the room was still lit by motion-sensor torches, but the room that once held a massive, three-headed dog was now empty, except for the huge hovering crystal chandeliers, dozens of circular tables scattered alongside the wooden, square dance floor and a platform where musical equipment were already set up. Candles littered the air, floating near the ceiling which was bewitched to mimic a beautiful, starry sky.
"Wow, this room is BEAUTIFUL," Hermione gasped.
Harry leaned over and whispered in her ear," Not as beautiful as you though."
Hermione blushed madly, a grin making her eyes light up like the crystal.
Soon, they were all seated round two of the circular tables. For some reason Harry didn't feel as nervous as he did at the Yule Ball. Probably because he knew he wasn't expected to lead a dance or be gawked at the entire time because he was a Champion.
Professor Dumbledore followed by the rest of the teaching staff filed into the room and sat at a long table at the back of the room. With a loud clap made by Dumbledore, the room quieted down and he began," Thank you all for coming sixth years. I'm sure this is to be an enchanting evening for us all. I'm also sure many of you are asking yourselves WHAT we're doing in the third floor corridor, on the right hand side. Well, simple...Thought a change of scenery would be wonderful...Though, I'm sad to say, some of you," Dumbledore gave Harry, Ron and Hermione a look with a secret smile," Have already had the pleasure of visiting these premises."
The whole lot of the room looked over at the three, who had blushed at the mention of their previous encounter with the room.
"Now, without any further ado. I would like to present the simply fabulous band. The Ataris!"
The room gasped as the band ran onstage. It seemed only a scarce few were applauding, including Dean and Harry.
The band hopped onstage and the lead singer laughed into the mike," Its alright guys. We know what we're doing...How 'bout we let our hair down and have some fun?"
The room seemed to loosen up at their friendly demeanor and the band began to play a fast, upbeat song. Seeing as no one got up to dance, Harry took it upon himself to show The Ataris that they were wanted. So, Harry quickly grabbed Hermione's hand and lead her to the dance floor.
Gah, you get a break from dancing solo, and you go ahead and do it by CHOICE!, He complained to himself.
His friends caught on and quickly followed, causing a slow rift in the moods of their classmates. One by 1, couples littered the dance floor till it was packed and everyone was enjoying the music.
Harry found himself dancing to several songs, including some of their slow ones. Hermione enjoyed the slow ones to the fast, saying they allowed her to get better acquainted with him. This made him smile.
Before long, Harry was peeling off his jacket, finding the rhythm easier after each song. Soon, he was dancing somewhat normally and didn't feel foolish with his lack of dancing skills.
Three hours later, the band took an intermission, letting the couples filter back to their tables and take some well deserved rest.
"Gah, I've never danced so long in my entire life!" Ron groaned, sliding off his shoes and rubbing his sore feet.
Harry had to agree, his feet were also complaining in his dress shoes. He was now wishing he had opted for his school shoes rather than these black bear traps they dared call shoes.
"You're one to talk, look at MY shoes!" Hermione exclaimed, flexing her toes that were crammed in her pink high heels." They're torture devices posing as footwear!"
Harry smiled then noticed some commotion going on in the far end of the room. From what he could see, The Ataris were surrounded by some of the teachers and Madam Pomfrey was quickly scuttling towards them. Frowning, he got up and hurried over as did a few other people.
Nudging his way to the front, he saw the lead singer sitting on the floor, coughing up frogs.
A boy Harry recognized as a fourth year was standing nearby, looking grief stricken.
"I didn't mean to! I SWEAR! Gregory Smut was supposed to eat it, not him!"
Harry looked over at the boy fingered Gregory and saw him looking rather pale. Harry sighed and crossed his arms as Madam Pomfrey escorted the frog-mouthed singer away ,to the infirmary no doubt.
"What now???" One of the other band members exclaimed." We can't leave until midnight, our portkey won't work until then."
"We NEED a replacement," said another member. The three looked at each other devastated.
"What about one of us students?" Dean asked from nowhere.
Harry looked over his shoulder and saw Dean watching the band from behind him.
"Well...yeah, sure. If anyone knows any of our songs ,can carry a tune and can manage basic guitar notes," the first band member said.
Dean beamed and patted Harry heavily on the shoulder," This one does!"
Harry's mouth dropped as everyone turned to look at him incredulously. "Wait, no...I mean...I can't.."
"Can you play?" The bassist asked.
"Well...y-yeah...I'm not horrible, I mean..." Harry stammered.
"That's settled then, you'll fill in for Kris. I'm Mike," The bassist said, then pointed to the other two in turn." That's John,he's backup guitar and vocals, and that's Kid, he's drums. You'll be lead guitar. Think you can handle an electric?" Mike added, quickly hurrying Harry towards the stage. But before he could answer, they had ushered him to the main microphone and shoved a guitar in his hands. Harry stared at it dumbfounded, wondering if he knew any spells to torture Dean for all eternity. Death was just too gracious in his case. Slowly looking up, he saw every eye on him. Dumbledore seemed particularly pleased, sitting rather upright in his chair as the other teachers settled themselves in besides him. Harry stared at the mic, unable to find his voice.
"We're back ladies and gents...Now, I know you're all wondering ' WHAT is that kid doing up there?' Well, the answer is simple...Our lead guitarist, Kris, got a hold of some cursed cupcakes and is now spitting up frogs in the hospital wing." With this, Mike eyed the fourth year who was looking even more pale than before." This lad was kind enough to volunteer and keep the party going. Lets give him a hand!"
Harry could NOT believe this was happening to him. Somehow, he always managed to get himself in the spotlight, saving the day in SOME fashion. This was the first though that didn't involve magic or anyone in grave peril. He wasn't used to regular crisis's. He was almost not prepared for them. But, with a deep breath, he took a step towards the mic, leaving his lips inches from it.
He glanced sideways and saw Mike looking at him.
"Know 'In This Diary'?" he mouthed.
Harry nodded dumbly and tried to remember the beginning notes. When they entered his brain, he started the solo pluck at the chords. The sound that echoed from the speakers was like nothing he had ever experienced before. And upon his lips parting to form the first lines, the band added each of their instruments to form the beat of the song.
"Here in this diary, I write you visions of my summer. It was the BEST I ever had. There were choruses and sing along and not a spoken feelings. I'm knowing that right now is all that matters," Harry sang, quite taken aback by the smooth voice that greeted each lyric. This was his first time singing, and to his utter surprise, he could SING.
"All the nights we stayed up talking and listening to 80's songs; quoting lines from all those movies that we love. It still brings a smile to my face...I guess when it comes down to it..." He continued, looking up from his fingers to see most of the room dancing to the song. The commotion made him flush, sending a rush of adrenaline surging through his veins, bringing out a grin.
"Being grown up isn't half as fun as growing up: These are the best days of our lives. The only thing that matters is just following your heart and eventually you'll finally get it right," The band sang together, probably more amazed he could sing than Harry himself. Nonetheless, Harry had never enjoyed himself more than this second. He was singing in a band like a regular teenager to a crowd who enjoyed his playing. Granted, they weren't his lyrics, it still felt like HIS moment.
"Breaking into hotel swimming pools, and wreaking havoc on our world. Hanging out at truck stops just to pass the time. The black top's singing me to sleep." He found himself relishing each chord more and more, smiling wider and playing the part.
"Lighting fireworks in parking lots, illuminate the blackest nights. Cherry cokes under this moonlight summer sky. 2015 Riverside, it's time to say, "goodbye." Get on the bus, it's time to go...Being grown up isn't half as fun as growing up: These are the best days of our lives. The only thing that matters is just following your heart, and eventually you'll finally get it right..."
The band repeated the chorus to the fulfillment of the crowd, who roared with applause at the end of the song. Harry felt his cheeks aching with his grin, knowing he was blushing just as hard as he breathing. The euphoria hung thickly around him, making him Harry, but a different Harry...And he liked it. The Ataris had him stand in well past midnight, the students never getting enough. But at last, the party had to end.
Walking them over to the infirmary, Harry held onto Kris' guitar like it was a priceless treasure.
"Liked it, huh?" John asked, heaving his guitar case alongside him.
Harry smiled, pulled his wand from his cloak's pocket and pointed it at the band's cases saying Locomotor equipment. The drums, guitar and bass cases, the two amps and speakers levitated off the ground and floated infront of the grateful members. "Thanks, guy. That's some pretty good wand waving," Kid complimented, twirling his drumstick around his fingers.
"Yeah, we left our wands on the bus. Completely forgot to bring them along...Been so long since we had a wizard gig, yanno?" Mike said, leading the way inside the infirmary.
"So, why DO you play both worlds? Aren't you scared you'll get caught?" Harry couldn't help but ask as he stood a bit away from the others and Kris' bed.
"Pays more for one...plus, we're Muggle-born. Just because we love music, doesn't mean we have to choose just ONE world. We love both, they're our homes." Kris muttered weakly, his throat obviously sore from coughing for over two hours.
Harry nodded, knowing it made more than enough sense. It was almost noble.
"Thanks for standing in for me, kid," Kris continued, despite Madam Pomfrey's wary looks. "By the way, whats your name?"
"Oh, sorry...I'm Harry. Harry Potter."
All four members dropped their jaws and lost their voice.
"H-Harry...POTTER?" Mike squeaked, sounding more like a trapped mouse than a singer in a band.
"Like the Harry Potter?" Kid inquired, looking at Harry in awe.
"As in 'I-survived-You-know-who-when-I-was-a-baby' Harry Potter?" John pressed on, disbelief streaked across his face.
Harry blushed furiously," Um, well, yeeaaahh...."
"WOW! Harry 'FRIGGIN' Potter, man!" Kid exclaimed.
"We had Harry POTTER play with us!" Mike shouted, grinning proudly.
"Would you boys PLEASE keep your voices down! For heaven's sake, this is an infirmary, not a party!" Madam Pomfrey scolded." Now, Potter, I'm sure these find young lads are grateful for your help, but we really must get them along. Their portkey will be expiring very soon."
Harry nodded and guided their equipment behind them as they helped Kris onto his feet and walked him to a tree that seemed to have popped out of nowhere. His only guess was that Dumbledore put it there for them especially.
"Why'd you use a portkey, anyway?" Harry asked, setting down their equipment besides them as they circled around the tree.
"Easier, don't you know. That blasted Knight Bus always cost us more trouble than convenience. Lost two guitars, a bass and FOUR sets of drums to that nutty driver." Kid explained, tethering a rope around his drum set then around his waist. The others did the same, tying a rope to their instrument, then to themselves.
Harry shrugged and backed up next to Madam Pomfrey. The band waved, reached out to touch the tree, then vanished in a swirl of color. Harry sighed and turned, following Pomfrey back to the school. She ushered Harry back upstairs to get some food into his stomach, then left for bed. Harry trotted back to the ball, finding it was half empty, and some enchanted instruments were playing neutral music.
Hermione rushed up to him and hugged him frantically, "Oh my god, Harry! You were WONDEFUL! I didn't know you could play!"
Harry found himself blushing once more as his friends gathered round him.
"Seriously, Harry. That was sensational. I even plum forgot you weren't apart of the band," Dean commented.
"You have a beautiful voice, too,' Ginny added, blushing her usual blush.
Harry smiled, not being able to help himself," Thanks guys...I honestly didn't think I could pull it off-"
"I bet you LOVED that, Potter," a voice snapped from somewhere behind him.
Harry turned and saw Draco Malfoy standing with his arms crossed, obviously very put off. Not a moment went by then Crabbe and Goyle caught up and flanked him.
"The fabulous, famous Harry Potter...threes nothing he can't do," Malfoy continued, looking more and more jealous by the minute.
Harry glared, turning from Hermione's tight grasp too look him straight on," Jealous much?"
Malfoy blinked, then quickly reestablished his scowl," Jealous, Potter!? Of what, YOU?! Just because you're a bloody canary doesn't mean you're better than everybody else."
Harry smirked," Not everybody. Just you."
Draco scowled more, stepping forward, again quickly sided by his bodyguards, Crabbe and Goyle.
Harry eyed them over, noticing their robes two sizes too small. Draco's was of the blackest silk, off setting his pale features and blonde-white hair. Harry couldn't help the surge of egotism that surfaced and tumbled from his mouth before he could think," If I were you, MALFOY, I'd clear out before I show you EXACTLY why I keep defeating your friend, Voldemort."
Draco spat fireworks. Like lightning, he lunged at Harry. Harry quickly side-stepped his assault and let Malfoy fall to the ground, his fists empty of Harry-flesh. Dean, Ron and Neville stood in the way of Crabbe and Goyle's second attack on Harry. Before Draco could get to his feet and try again, a group of boys stood in his way, blocking any further assaults on Harry.Harry smirked smugly, despite himself. He knew he had far more friends than Malfoy, and they were of the loyal kind.
Draco, Crabbe and Goyle stalked off, leaving Harry and his friends to laugh them out of the room.
Hermione was the only one not enjoying the sight of a humiliated Malfoy.
"Did anyone notice Malfoy before this? I don't think I've seen him since the beginning of the year..."
Harry turned and looked at her.
"He was probably hiding out, you know. Since his father's been labeled a Death Eater and all," Neville offered.
Hermione sighed and looked up at Harry. She smiled immediately and wrapped her arms around him," You never cease to amaze me."
"How about one more time?" He asked, grinning.
She stared at him in wonder, tilting her head a bit," What?"
"Hermione..."Harry started, seeing the anxiousness in her twinkling brown eyes." Would you be my girlfriend?"
Hermione beamed far past any normal beam. She leapt at him, hugging him tighter than ever," Of COURSE, Harry! Of COURSE!"
The rest of the dance was a blur, where Harry found himself and the others back in the Gryffindor common room, finishing the party with the rest of the Gryffindors well into Sunday morning. All the while, Harry not being able to cease a blush or get feeling back into his shoulders from being patted so often.