Standard Disclaimer: Me poor, characters and Potterverse, not mine. They belong to J.K. Rowlings.
Headmaster's office, early morning…
The door to the Headmaster's office opened and Professors Snape and McGonagall stepped in. Albus Dumbledore sat in his chair at the desk.
"Ah, good morning Minerva, Severus. Come in. Would either of you care for a cup of tea?"
Both teachers declined the offer. Minerva moved to sit in one of the three chairs before the Headmaster's desk, while Severus leaned against the wall near the window, overlooking the Hogwarts grounds.
"I have a couple items of business to attend to today concerning Harry Potter. First off Severus, I know you'd rather not give up any of your free time now that you're married, but can you see fit to squeeze in some time for Mr. Potter's Occulmency lessons, now that you've had a chance to evaluate his skill?"
"Headmaster, Potter doesn't need lessons from me. To be frank, the little bugger is probably capable of teaching you at this point!" Snape said with more than a little exasperation.
Professor McGonagall looked down at the carpet and smirked briefly. Although she had always tried to be strict and fair with her students, she'd always had a bit of a soft spot for Harry, and to hear what Severus had said was high praise indeed. She couldn't help but feel a bit of pride in what her Gryffindor had done.
"Ah… well that wasn't what I expected, but it is welcome news nevertheless. Minerva, here is a copy of Harry's new schedule. Due to…ahem… his unique circumstances, I feel it's necessary to enhance his education here at Hogwarts."
Minerva accepted the parchment from the Headmaster and glanced at it briefly, then looked again. THIS CAN'T BE RIGHT! She thought. Severus watched McGonagall's face blanch after reading the parchment.
Just then the door opened. As instructed by Professor McGonagall, Harry arrived in the Headmaster's office before breakfast.
Harry Vs Dumbledore…
Harry walked into the office, and found that the Headmaster was not alone. Professor Snape leaned against the wall near the window, an unreadable expression on his face. As Harry walked towards Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall stood up from one of the three chairs placed before the desk and indicated that he should take the middle seat.
After pleasantries were exchanged and the obligatory Lemon Drop offered, Harry began to grow uncomfortable. It was obvious that the Headmaster had something on his mind. Whatever it was, Harry had a feeling he wasn't going to like it much.
"Well Harry, I'm sure you're wondering why I've asked you here," Dumbledore said.
"Yes sir, I was. As Professor Snape is here, I had assumed it was about my Occulmency lessons."
"No Harry, not Occulmency. Professor Snape has assured me that you no longer require lessons, as you've come to master that talent. Is that not correct, Severus?"
Harry stared at Dumbledore for a moment, before turning in his chair to look at the dark professor by the window. Snape nodded to indicate that the Headmaster was correct in his assessment, before walking over to take the third chair. Harry had the unpleasant feeling that he was about to be ganged up on.
"Harry, it's come to my attention that you've been spending a lot of your free time with Miss Weasley. Is that correct?"
"Yes sir," Harry said, puzzled. He'd never known the Headmaster to pry into the personal, romantic relationships between the students of Hogwarts before.
"Do you think that wise, Harry?"
"What do you mean, sir?"
"Are you not concerned about the danger your relationship places Miss Weasley in? You are a target, Harry. Anyone close to you can be used against you."
"Yes sir, I've thought about that. Whatever else you may think Headmaster, I am aware of the danger."
"Excellent, Harry. Then I'm sure you will agree with me when I say that you dating Miss Weasley must end. While I'm sure the girl will be upset, I'm positive it's for the best." Dumbledore smiled at Harry, his eyes twinkling merrily. "Now then, I think we should move on to…"
"Wait, sir. Break up with Ginny? Why on earth would I do that?" Harry sat rigidly in his chair.
Dumbledore frowned. "Harry, didn't we just discuss the danger to…"
Calmly, Harry reminded himself. Keep yourself calm and collected. Anger won't help.
"Yes, Headmaster. However, Ron and Hermione, through their friendship with me, have been in danger for years. You've never been concerned about that in the past. Nor have you ever told me to give up those friendships. In fact, you've encouraged them. So why would I break up with Ginny? With respect sir, your argument makes little sense."
Harry cringed as he heard himself say those last words. He fully expected either Professors McGonagall or Snape to tear strips out of him for his comment. Strangely, neither said a word. He didn't dare look at them though, afraid it might invite remark.
Dumbledore looked at Harry, puzzled for a moment. "Perhaps we should come back to this later. I think, once you hear the rest, you'll understand."
Harry nodded and, unsure where this was going, slipped down in his chair slightly.
"Harry, I think what you need to be spending your time on now is Charms, Transfiguration and Defense Against the Dark Arts. With that in mind, you'll be dropping Care of Magical Creatures and Herbology. You won't have time for those classes, and because of your special circumstances, they really are not needed for your education. Due to the level of coursework you will be covering in these classes, your schedule this year will be much different than anything you've had before. As such, you will also be dropping Quidditch."
Dumbledore stopped, picked up a few pieces of parchment from his desk, and gave one of them to Harry to look over. "I think you'll find everything you need to know about your new schedule is there. Due to the time involved in your new studies, I do not believe you will have much time for a relationship with Miss Weasley, hence my…suggestion that a relationship may not be appropriate right now. If you have any questions, please let me know." It was a clear dismissal.
Harry glanced at the parchment, blinked and sat up straight. This can't be right, can it? Breakfast at 6am, classes all day, dinner at 9pm. Weekend classes? HOLIDAY classes? What is this garbage?
Harry looked at McGonagall and asked, "Have you seen this, Professor?"
"Yes, Mr. Potter, I have. As your Head of House, the Headmaster thought I should be aware of your new schedule."
"And you approve of this?" Harry asked in disbelief.
McGonagall's lips tightened for a moment and her expression became very stern. "No, Mr. Potter, if you must know. I do not approve of the Headmaster's new schedule. I believe that a well-rounded education is essential for everyone, as is time off from studies and the pressure of grades."
Harry read through the schedule one last time, before placing it back on the Headmaster's desk. Looking into Dumbledore's eyes, Harry said quietly, "I think I'll keep my current schedule as it stands now, sir."
"I don't think you understand, Harry. The new schedule is not up for debate. It's already been…"
"No sir, I don't think you understand," Harry interrupted, patiently. "I will not be changing my schedule. I do agree that Quidditch needs to go. I had already decided to drop it and spend more time on my studies. However, your 'suggestion' that I break up with Miss Weasley started, not as a factor of how much time I would have under your new schedule, but rather the amount of 'danger' she would be in. Which is it sir?"
Dumbledore sat back in his chair. "It is both, Mr. Potter," he said with some heat. "Your new schedule does not permit time for romantic entanglements. And due to your circumstances, you will be placing the young woman in a great deal of danger by continuing your relationship with her. I'm sure her parents, your new guardians, would not approve of their daughter taking such a risk. You do not wish to jeopardize your place in their home, do you?"
"As I have already asked Mr. and Mrs. Weasley for permission to date Ginny, and received their whole-hearted approval, I do not think my relationship with her will cause any problems in my home, sir. Nor do I see how my personal life is any of your business."
The Headmaster sighed and rubbed his eyes tiredly. Looking up, he saw a slight smile on Minerva's face. Severus looked bored by the whole thing. Time to take another track, he thought to himself.
Sitting up, he folded his hands on the desktop and look at Harry over his half moon spectacles.
"Harry, the new schedule is important. This is something that must be done. I know you do not see it that way now, but in time you will. To that end, I am perfectly willing to expel Miss Weasley from this school. Either way, you will not be seeing her."
Both Snape and McGonagall gaped that this.
The man is barking! He's gone completely mental! This is not happening. It can't be. Expel Ginny because she's dating me? What the hell is going on here? Looking at Dumbledore, his eyes narrowed in thought. This has come quicker than I thought. Remember what Sirius told you before the hearing at the Ministry. 'Keep your temper…be polite'
"You would expel Ginny because she was going out with me?" Harry asked for clarification. "I do not believe the Board of Governors would go along with that, sir."
"Suitable reason can be found for her expulsion, Mr. Potter. I assure you, the Board of Governors will find no fault in whatever reason I come up with."
"So, you would lie? Interesting."
"It would not be a lie," snapped Dumbledore. "Whatever reason I give the Board would be a factual, legitimate reason for expulsion!"
"As I said, it would be a lie," Harry snapped back angrily. As Dumbledore started to interrupt, Harry cut him off, his temper frayed. "You and I both know Ginny has done nothing to warrant expulsion from Hogwarts. Either way, it matters very little. As you know, I inherited the Black family fortune when Sirius died. Combined with what my parents left me, I have more than enough money to pay for private tutors for Ginny. And while I'm sure that Mr. and Mrs. Weasley would be disappointed with Ginny's expulsion, I think they would be more disappointed in the fact that the leader of the Order expelled her in the first place, on purely contemptible grounds!"
The Headmaster stood up, angrier than Harry had ever seen him. "Mr. Potter! I've put up with much from you over the years…"
Harry jumped out of his chair. His temper exploded and he started to yell. "Put up with? Oh, I like that!" The three adults in the room drew back as they felt the waves of magic radiating off the teenager before them. "Hogwarts is supposed to be safe for all students! Yet, in my first year, I had to face Voldemort because you failed to adequately protect the Sorcerers Stone. In my second year, I faced him again, while you, as Headmaster couldn't even find the Chamber! Ginny would have died if it hadn't been for me! Where was her protection? In the fourth year you allowed Cedric and myself to be kidnapped right out from under your nose, and we all know how that turned out!" The window Snape had been standing beside when Harry entered the room shattered outward with an explosive sound, the room rumbled ominously, and the fireplace flared to a roaring flame.
Grabbing the edge of the desk in front of him, Harry looked down and inhaled deeply, trying to rein in his temper and think.
After a few shocked, silent moments, Harry once again looked at Dumbledore, taking in the stunned expression on the old wizard's face. "Let us be clear on some things sir," Harry said, more politely, and in a calmer tone of voice than he'd managed since entering the office. "If you expel Ginny, I will leave the school. I've taken my O.W.L.s, and I can hire tutors for Ginny to complete hers, even if she wants to go on to N.E.W.T level. I can hire tutors for myself as well. Once that is done, I will immediately expel the Order from Grimmauld Place, and Ginny and I will be taught there.
If you chose not to expel her, I still will not follow your schedule, sir. I am no puppet. I will not dance to your tune. My current schedule stands. I refuse to allow you to ruin my life anymore than you already have." As Dumbledore tried once more to interrupt, Harry's voice hardened. "It is not up for debate! With all due respect, Headmaster, my life is just that. Mine. What I choose to do with it, and whom I choose to share it with is, quite frankly, none of your business. I will kill Voldemort, or die in the attempt. But I will do so on my terms, not yours. If I feel I need counsel, I will choose my counselors, not you. Your attempts to manage me, and my affairs, end now. Quite frankly Headmaster I no longer trust you or consider us to be on the same side. The only thing in common we share is an enemy and I'll deal with him my way, not yours."
Harry picked up Dumbledore's schedule from the desk, walked over to the fire and tossed it in. As he turned back to the Headmaster, he noticed Professor McGonagall's expression of shocked surprise and, strangely, Professor Snape's look of approval.
"With those facts in mind, Headmaster, I believe our meeting is over. Good day Professor McGonagall, Professor Snape." With that, Harry left the office.
Albus Dumbledore sat back down heavily, feeling very old all of a sudden. The power Harry had radiated in that brief outburst had been an overwhelming assault on his mental shields and he felt like he had been pummeled from head to toe.
McGonagall and Snape exchanged a quick look and exited the office. Dumbledore never even noticed their departure.
Outside of the headmaster's office McGonagall placed a hand on Severus's arm.
"Severus, please tell Serena I will be happy to join you for lunch today."
Breakfast…
Harry's trip from the Headmasters office to the great hall would have made Snape proud! The front of his robe open, Harry's brisk walk caused the back to billow out like some avenging caped hero. His face was set in a tight scowl and his eyes glowed an intense green. Harry didn't notice any of this, nor did he notice some of the younger students scurrying out of his path, He walked entirely on automatic pilot as he concentrated his entire being on the soothing internal sound of his phoenix. He had released enormous amounts of energy, but had managed to keep most of it in check. Had he released it all, it was quite likely the Headmaster's office would have ceased to exist. As he walked, the energy slowly bled off him as he listened to the calming phoenix song running through his head.
Entering the great hall, Ron looked up and spotted Harry entering. He nudged Hermione who spotted Harry a second later.
Hermione took a second look and breathed "Oh Merlin!" as Harry walked to his spot next to Ginny and sat down; his eyes still alight with power. Ron and Hermione exchanged a look between themselves then turned back to Harry. Ginny placed a hand on Harry's arm, she could feel him trembling slightly, but her touch was both comforting and calming.
"Harry?" Ginny asked.
"Later… we'll talk about this later I promise." Taking a deep breath he closed his eyes briefly and worked on centering himself. When he reopened his eyes they had returned to normal again. He leaned over to Ginny and kissed her on the cheek. She smiled shyly at him. Ron and Hermione visibly relaxed as they could see Harry had regained control over himself. Hermione turned to Ron to continue their conversation. Hermione picked up her tea and frowned.
"I really wish I had some apple juice today. Tea just isn't doing it for me this morning."
Ron got a smile on his face and said, "Allow me my lady!" With a flick and a swish he transformed Hermione's cup of tea into a tall glass of Apple Juice. She smiled at Ron warmly and took a huge gulp. Hermione's face screwed up in a grimace and she sprayed the juice all over Ron!
"RONALD! That was APPLE VINEGEAR!"
Ron was busy trying to wipe off his robe and looking at Hermione with a "What did I do?" look.
Hermione began to heatedly lecture Ron on transfiguration and how he never listens in class. Suddenly she stopped. Something was wrong! What was it? Ginny was sitting at her place at the table trying very hard not to laugh. And Harry? Where was Harry? She could hear him. Harry had slid off his chair and was currently under the table laughing so hard tears were streaming down his face. Ron started to snicker, and that was it for Ginny. Pushed over the edge, she joined Harry under the table, laughing.
Hermione took on a pained look and started to giggle with the rest of them.
Transfiguration Class…
Harry, Ron and Hermione headed off to their first class, transfiguration. They noticed Professor McGonagall standing by the door of the classroom. She handed Harry a note when he entered. This immediately set Harry to worrying. After the disastrous early morning meeting, surely this could only be more bad news!
As the rest of the class filed in, he opened the letter.
Mr. Potter,While I do not approve of the tone you took with the Headmaster this morning, you may rest assured that I wholeheartedly approve of your actions. As long as I remain Deputy Headmistress, I will not allow any harm to be done to either you or Miss Weasley's education. If necessary I will personally go to the board of Governors for you.
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress, Hogwarts.
Harry slumped in his chair with relief and looked up at Professor McGonagall, he mouthed a "Thank you" to her and for a brief moment, she allowed just a touch of a smile to appear on her face.
Professor McGonagall faced her class. "For those of you that signed up for the Revealus Animus potion, you will be taking those doses today. Not everyone can make the transformation so do not be upset if the potion does not work for you. As I call your name, come up to the desk and take your dose, then return to your desk. The potion will put you into a short sleep of less than five minutes. When you awaken you will have a firm idea of what your form will be.
For those that did not sign up for the potion dose, please turn to chapter 38 in your textbook and begin the exercise in conjuring base metals."
Professor McGonagall started to call from her list of students One by one they can up and took a dose of the potion and returned to their desks. In between calling the names she happened to glance up and noticed that the five of the six students who hadn't signed up for the potion dose were staring at the sixth. Harry Potter. Harry sat at his desk, small flashes of light seemed to flare off the end of his wand as he jabbed it slightly towards the desk. By now most of the students still awake had turned to watch Harry. Harry seemed to be oblivious to it all. His eyes appeared glazed over and he sat with a smile on his face as he continued working.
Minerva got up from her desk and made her way around the class to come up behind Harry. She wanted to see what he was doing. She was sure whatever it was it wasn't his assigned work. Coming up silently behind him, she gasped.
Floating above Harry's desk was a small spinning cube of metal. With each jab of his wand a piece would disappear. Entranced, even Minerva watched as Harry slowly formed a ring out of the silver metal. Harry seemed to be almost in a trance. His wand making rapid jabs towards the spinning band. He wasn't saying the spells. In fact, his lips were barely moving at all. His expression was best described as serene.
When the ring was complete, and without taking any sort of break, he slowly carved a shape out of one side by conjuring more metal and fusing it to the ring. Slowly but surely, a finely detailed phoenix appeared on the rings' face. As a final touch, he conjured two small green gems to mount into the eye sockets. Finally, the ring floated down to the desk and he seemed to shake himself slightly and sigh, like he was disappointed that it was over. Minerva placed her hand on his shoulder and he looked up startled.
"That was fine work Mr. Potter. May I see the ring please?"
Harry handed the professor the ring. He looked embarrassed, even a little ashamed, like he had been caught peeking into the girl's bathroom. "I was hoping I could keep it Professor", he added.
She peered down over her glasses and smiled at him. "I assure you Mr. Potter, I will return the ring to you by dinner. This is excellent work."
Shortly after that the class ended. McGonagall shouted out homework assignments to the rapidly disappearing students.
After Transfiguration Harry, Ron and Hermione headed off to their first potions class with Mrs. Professor Snape. It was a drastic and shocking experience to the trio. The classroom was brightly lit and Professor Snape welcomed questions. To their amazement, not a single house lost any points!
Two hours later the trio headed off to lunch.
Informal Teacher's Conference…
Around a table in Professor Snape's private quarters sat a carefully selected group of teachers. Severus and Serena Snape, Professor McGonagall, still clutching Harry's Ring, Professor Flitwick, Madam Pomfrey and Professor Sprout.
Serena stood up and faced the group.
"I've asked you all here today because I'm very concerned about one of our students. A student we all have in our classes, and one Poppy's attended on numerous occasions.
I'm sure by now you've all heard about what condition Harry Potter arrived in here at Hogwarts this year. The simple fact is, he has suffered under years of abuse, and if what Severus told me today is true, some of that abuse as been as a direct result of actions taken by our Headmaster. I'm afraid for Harry. He has very low self-esteem and one wrong action on our part either way could push him too far. If we're not careful, he could turn out to be another Dark Lord."
Everyone around the table shuddered at the thought.
"As you know, before I came to Hogwarts I worked at St. Mungos. Very often I was called to help patients that had undergone traumatic experiences and I often got to see mind healers work with their patients. I know that rebuilding someone's self-esteem is a slow, painstaking process, involving a lot of positive reinforcement. Now mind you, I'm not saying that we should let a bad grade slide or anything. But what I'm asking is that you take a little extra time to compliment his work when it deserves complimenting.
According to what I've heard, he's grown quite attached to Miss Weasley and she seems to have a very positive influence on him. I'm going to schedule a conference between myself, Mrs. Weasley and Miss Weasley to enlist their aid in helping Harry recover from his years of abuse. I'm hoping all of you will help with this. We owe it to Harry and ourselves to look out for him."
Minerva snorted then spoke, "I can't recall another student with the power he has. It's almost frightening. What he did this morning; he lost control for a brief instant and then pulled himself together. I don't think he got nearly as angry as he could have gotten! And if that isn't proof enough of his capabilities, take a look at this…" She handed the ring to Professor Flitwick to pass around.
Flitwick look at the ring carefully, then frowned. "This isn't…" Minerva interrupted him, "Yes Finius, that ring is Palladium, the Phoenix is Gold and he used Emeralds for the eyes. He conjured noble metals and precious gems!"
Everyone around the table gasped at that. Supposedly, a wizard or witch could easily conjure base metals, but no wizard has been able to conjure noble metals since the age of Merlin. The ring was passed around from teacher to teacher.
Minerva continued, "The really strange thing was as he worked he seemed to be in a state of peace, like he found what he was doing very relaxing and enjoyable. His expression bordered on sensual while he made that ring. I can't say I've ever seen anything like it, but it did seem to ease his tension considerably."
Poppy nodded and said "That is one of the first good things I've heard today. A creative outlet is a great way for him to work out some of his issues. I think we should encourage this. It's a common therapeutic technique; even the muggles use it. Ordinarily I'd suggest calling in a mind healer, but I don't think Harry would take that too well. I'm quite afraid it's entirely up to us."
Severus looked around the table, then pointedly at McGonagall before speaking.
"This morning, Minerva and I witnessed Professor Dumbledore and Harry get into a major argument. I won't go into any specific details except to say that the Headmaster threatened Harry's rights to his education, and the rights of Miss Weasley. Harry stood up to the Headmaster and basically told him to sod off. Dumbledore threatened and Harry counter threatened, and poked gaping holes in our Headmaster's arguments. Minerva, I hesitate to suggest this, but Dumbledore has known you the longest and respects your opinion the most. Perhaps you can talk with him and make him see his errors?"
Professor McGonagall put on her sternest teacher expression and glared at Severus for a while before nodding reluctantly.
Serena looked at her colleagues saying, "Well I will be the first to say it, but this has made me feel a lot better. We know what we need to do. We have a boy that needs help and he's going to get it. Shall we all get back to class before our students give us detention?"
The group chuckled, Minerva pocketed the ring and they left the apartment.
Dinner in the great hall…
Harry, Ginny, Ron and Hermione were having a conversation at the Gryffindor table when Professor McGonagall interrupted them. Handing back the ring to Harry she smiled at him and said, "Most excellent work Mr. Potter! If you don't mind me saying, I wouldn't mind seeing what else you're capable of doing."
Harry was never very good at being on the receiving end of a compliment, even one from the normally stoic Professor McGonagall. He tried to stammer out a reply, but McGonagall overrode him. "Nonsense Mr. Potter! You have quite a creative eye and should be proud of work like that." With that McGonagall headed up to the teacher's table. Hermione was eyeing the ring in Harry's hand.
"Harry, what did you use to make that ring?"
"Well the phoenix is gold, the eyes are emeralds…" He trailed off as she paled.
"Harry, you conjured noble metals and gems?"
Harry looked at Hermione with a puzzled expression on his face.
"What's a noble metal 'Mione?"
Hermione just rolled her eyes at Harry and leaned against Ron's shoulder shaking her head. Ron wrapped an arm around her and patted her back before saying, "Don't take it too hard 'Mione. He's just a guy and doesn't understand this girly stuff!" That caused Hermione to jerk back and Ginny to break into a fit of giggles. Ron looked perplexed.
"Wha… what did I say?"
Ginny took the ring from Harry and looked it over carefully before handing it back to Harry. "It's really quite beautiful Harry. I've never seen anything so pretty."
Harry suddenly got very shy. He was in totally unknown territory here. "Would… would… would you like me to make one for you Ginny? It isn't hard, and I find it sort of relaxing."
Ginny beamed up at him and gave him one of those hugs that immediately made him think a cold shower might be appropriate. Looking across the table he noted that Hermione was looking wistfully at Ginny. He chuckled and said, "Don't worry 'Mione. I can make one for each of us, including my pumpkin juice spewing brother."
Hermione sat back on her bench and gave Harry a quizzical eye. She'd just had an interesting idea; now to figure out a way to test it.
After dinner, Harry told the others he'd meet them in the common room in an hour or so. He had something he wanted to do. With that he headed off the to room of requirement for more training.
Much later that same night, Leaving Headmaster's office…
Minerva McGonagall slipped from the Headmaster's office and headed off to her Gryffindor private quarters. It hadn't been easy, but she had finally made the Headmaster see her point. Merlin that man is stubborn, once he gets an idea in his head its nearly impossible to budge him from it. She thought. She smirked to herself and continued walking. No, it hadn't been easy, but she had finally gotten to do what she had always wanted to do; dress Albus Dumbledore down like a third year caught in the act of sneaking into the girl's dorm!
Inside the Headmaster's office…
The echoes of Minerva McGonagall strident voice still rang in his head. He stared out the window, but he didn't really see anything. Albus felt worn down, and oh so tired.
Minerva had raged at him, threatened to personally report him to BOTH the Ministry and the Board of Governors. She pointedly told him his behavior was patently unfair and illegal. But it was two comments she made before leaving that cut him to the bone, wounded him so deep and he knew they were true.
"Oh Albus can you not see it? The boy is so much like Tom Riddle, raised by uncaring and cruel people. One strong push and he'll turn dark Albus and you very nearly gave him that push today! He desperately wants to be loved Albus and you nearly took that away from him"
"Tell me Albus, how can the boy be expected to fight for the light when your denying him everything that is good and wholesome?"
Albus wept. He wept because of how close he had come to ruining all their hopes for a safe future. He wept because he had damaged something precious in his attempt to secure that future. Most of all he wept for Harry. He had hurt him greatly and couldn't see a way of fixing it.
Fawkes, from his perch behind Albus, crooned a soft song of consolation. He was glad his friend had finally come to his senses. The past months had strained their relationship. The Phoenix / Human bond was strong only so long as the human remained firmly entrenched in the light. Albus might not have been able to feel it, but Fawkes did. Over the months the bond had weakened considerably. Humans are such strange creatures, Fawkes thought to himself. They could move from the light to the dark unchecked. In fact, Fawkes knew of only two humans that could not move back and forth like that.
Albus Dumbledore stared out his window, not really seeing anything and pondered his next move. He decided to leave Harry be. He'd let Harry become as normal a teenage wizard as possible. Their relationship was ruined, burned in the fire of Albus's zeal, but perhaps slowly, and only if Harry initiated it, they could build a new relationship.
The first DA Meeting…
That Thursday evening was the first DA Meeting. Not much would be accomplished here. Harry would have to explain his plans and try to convince everyone to see his point of view.
He paced nervously up on the dais the room had provided for him. There were a lot more people here than last year, the core group of about forty people, and nearly sixty newcomers. They had decided to open up the membership to the third years who would be trained for a specific task, and many of the current students hearing how well the original DA had done in the OWLS wanted to join.
Harry looked nervously at the larger than expected crowd. Ginny and Hermione smiled reassuringly up at him, Neville gave him a 'thumbs up'. Ron closed the door to the room and signaled to Harry to start.
Harry coughed nervously drawing everyone's attention while Ron, Ginny, Hermione, Neville and Luna joined him on the dais. Harry stepped forward. He started off nervously, but as he talked, his voice took on a note of confidence and command.
"Last year, six of our members took an ill fated trip to the Ministry of Magic where they proceeded to capture eleven high level death eaters, and I personally fought Voldemort again." He paused while the room collectively gasped. He rolled his eyes at the sound. I'll deal with that later.
"This year, we're going to be reorganizing the DA. We will continue teaching dueling, but we're planning on adding a twist to the idea. Before I go into that however, I'm afraid I'll need to weed out the serious from the not so serious. If you're currently in your OWL or NEWT exam years, you might want to reconsider being a member of the DA. The DA will take up a lot of your time. If you feel that the time used here would impact your studies, you may wish to leave.
Now, I'd like to see a show of hands as I ask questions. If you feel that the question makes you unwilling to commit to being in the DA, lower your hand. Those remaining at the end of the questions with their hands still up will be asked to see Hermione. You'll be required to give her a wizard's oath. If you put your hand down, we'll ask you to exit the room, no hard feelings."
"How many of you want to survive this war we're in?" Everyone raised his or her hand.
"How many of you are willing to commit to learning how to survive, at least two hours per day, everyday, maybe more?" At least thirty hands dropped at that point and people started to head to the exit. Harry waited for them to file out.
"How many of you are not only willing to fight to defend yourselves, but want to fight back, to take this war to Voldemort himself if necessary?" Another twenty or so people dropped their hand and exited the room. Harry waited again until they were gone.
"How many of you are willing to fight, willing to put your lives on the line for your family, for your friends, for someone you don't even know, just because you know you're doing the right thing?" The room remained silent. People looked around, hands still in the air. Harry smiled.
"Those of you remaining, welcome to the new DA! Please step over to Hermione. She has a little present for each of you after you give your oath."
The crowd milled around Hermione as she and Luna took wizard's oaths and passed out the Phoenix rings Harry had made.
Harry stood off to one side, watching impassively as the oaths were taken. His mind was whirling with ideas and concepts. He had his core group now. He listened to the murmurs of pleasure, from the girls in particular, as the rings were examined. It wasn't the same ring as the first one he had made, nor the same as the ones he had given to Ginny, Ron, Hermione, Neville and Luna. He'd probably better explain those first before getting into the really mind stretching stuff.
"Ok settle down people. Let me start off by explaining a few things that have already happened, and are going to happen. First off, those people who left the room passed through a charm on the door which Obliviated all memory of what happened here. The DA is secret. Don't talk about it to your mates. Don't talk about it to your teachers. Don't talk about it to your family. We've all taken an oath to that.
The rings you've been given are Phoenix Rings, made by myself. Each ring is charmed with some specific things. Tap the ring once with your wand and it will provide you with extra warmth, tap it twice and it cools you off. There is also a minor shield charm on it that will reduce damage to you if you're hit with a spell. Not a lot, but sometimes even a little reduction can mean the difference between living and dying. Finally, if there is a problem, if you're in danger, or hurt and alone, twist the ring once and all of our rings will become warm, letting us know one of you is in trouble and needs help. I strongly urge you never to take it off."
Harry paused and looked around at the expressions of shock, excitement and determination on the faces before him. Nodding to himself, he continued.
"Now Ron here," he said pointing and smirking, "should be telling us about what we're going to do. But, since he can't talk in front of a crowd without shaking like a leaf, it's going to be up to me. Our plan this year is to turn the DA into something more than just a fancy dueling club. We are going to borrow from the way the muggles fight because, believe it or not, they fight better than we do. They've learned the value of cooperating when fighting. We are going to form into groups called 'squads'; each squad will have a leader that will oversee the operation of the squad. Ron will work with each squad leader to ensure they know what they need to do and each leader will work with their squad passing that information down to each of you.
Your squad is your family! They protect you and you protect them. You give them your best because they are willing to give you their best. Learn to work with one another. Learn to play with one another. Forget about which house you're in. Houses keep us divided. If any of us hope to survive this war, we need to learn to lean on each other.
A squad will consist of ten people, one handling healing, three people shielding, five people casting offensive spells and the squad leader that can fit into any of the three roles. Hermione, Ginny and Luna will be teaching us all new offensive and defensive spells this year. You are not to use these spells in your DADA classes!" He waited until everyone nodded in understanding at this, then he continued.
"Neville will be teaching everyone healing spells and techniques. And I will float from group to group, helping where I can.
Everyone will learn the same set of spells. Based on your strengths and weaknesses, that will determine your position within the squad. Once the squads have learned to work as a team, then we'll turn to working as a group together."
As he spoke, the other five had been busy amongst themselves, breaking down the crowd into manageable groups. Hermione was taking notes of course.
"We've covered a lot of material tonight, and Ron still has some stuff, including your squad assignments. Please see Ron as soon as I'm done. If you have any questions, suggestions or ideas see Luna, Hermione or Ginny.
I know we can do this, and I know that if we can keep this to ourselves, Voldemort's Death Eaters are going to be in for one nasty shock when we go up against them. They won't know what hit them. But we'll know!" he said, fiercely. Scanning the room again, he nodded one last time.
"We'll meet again tomorrow night just after dinner," he finished.
The DA members walked over to Ron to get their squad assignments and reading material's he had prepared. Hermione handed out spell sheets covering the new spells they would be learning. A number of members came up to Harry to voice their support, and their thanks for being given a chance to make a difference. A number of them told him about friends and family they've already lost this past summer. Each report of loss hit Harry like a blow to his soul.
When only the six remained, the room transformed itself again, turning it into a cozy room with a fireplace and some couches and one lone armchair facing the fire. Harry took the armchair and stared moodily into the fire while the others looked at each other. The others took up positions on the couches and looked at Harry. Finally, in a low voice and with a bowed head, he began to talk.
"Justin told me about his little niece he lost this summer. She was only six years old. Hannah lost an older brother and his wife. Susan lost a cousin. Even Blaise lost a neighbor, including two kids, ages four and ten. The ten year old would have been sorted into a house by now. They shouldn't have to do this. They're just kids. They should be worried about snogging or grades or Quidditch. They have futures ahead of them, lives to live and loves to enjoy…" Harry tried to fight it but finally one shuddering sob broke through his control. In an instant Ginny was holding him and Hermione and Luna had their arms around him. Ginny spoke;
"Oh Harry, you feel every loss as if it were your own. They know why they do this and they know the risks. But everyone one of them also knows how much you care and would follow you anywhere. We all do it because we know how much you love and because we love you." Ginny wiped the tears from his face and gave him a smile. Harry calmed himself in that three-way embrace.
He leaned his forehead against Ginny's and took a couple of shuddering breaths. Then he pulled back and, with a wobbly smile, said, "I don't know what I'd do with out you, all of you." He looked each one of them in the eye. "You aren't just friends, your closer, more important, your family."
Late Night Revelations…
A few nights later, Harry woke from a sound sleep screaming, his hands clasped to his scar. The scar had been burning fitfully every couple of nights for weeks now. Fortunately for his dorm mates, he routine cast a silencing charm on his bed to prevent his screams from wakening everyone. Usually it wasn't too bad, more annoying really. But tonight was a different story. Harry stumbled from his bed and headed into the bathroom, where he was promptly sick. He decided he wouldn't be able to go back to sleep for a while so he pulled on his robe and stumbled down to the common room. Maybe he could read for a while? He lurched over to one of the couches and sat down weakly, his limbs trembling. He closed his eyes and gasped as the scar flared again, tears forcing their way out from behind his eyelids. His awareness barely connected to his body. The link to what Voldemort was seeing and thinking was firmly closed off, but he couldn't block the pain.
Slowly he became aware of a pair of arms around him and a cool damp cloth pressed to the scar. He opened his eyes to see Ginny holding him and an anxious Hermione hovering nearby. He looked at Ginny. "He's killing people tonight personally Gin. Normally its not this bad but I can feel him killing." Ginny pulled his head to her breast and rocked him back and forth.
"Sleep Harry, just relax and let me hold you." Slowly but surely Harry's breathing slowed, becoming more regular and his trembling ceased. Hermione looked questioningly at Ginny.
"Should I get Madam Pomfrey, Ginny?"
The younger girl shook her head, "No, Madam Pomfrey has nothing for him that will help, short of a dreamless sleep potion, and he's been using too many of them lately. He's been trying to hide it from me, but I know his scar has been bothering him off and on for a while now. Why don't you go back to bed 'Mione? I'll stay with him."
Hermione conjured a large blanket and some pillows and covered the two of them. She walked to the girl's stairs, and then took one last look. Ginny was holding Harry, one arm around him, the other hand playing loosely with his hair. Harry was fast asleep and Ginny seemed not far behind him. Hermione smiled and told herself to set her alarm a little early so she could wake them before the others came down, then returned to her own bed, a little envious of Ginny. They might not be doing anything but sleeping, but it must be nice to sleep with the man you love.
Passing Time…
September slipped into October. Ron, the new Gryffindor Quidditch Captain had managed to convince Madam Hooch to start up a physical fitness club for the Quidditch teams, but within a few days a great number of students had joined the club and spent their first hour of the day jogging around the Quidditch field and running around the lake. Most of the members were DA members, and the odd Quidditch player who didn't have a clue why the people running next to him were so motivated.
The DA met daily, and was starting to really shape up. Hermione's list of spells was growing slowly as people mastered them old ones. Ron drilled the squads, challenging them to excel. Ginny and Luna spent what time they could spare from homework and DA scouring the library for new possibilities. Harry's research into magical connections and bindings continued. He had managed to locate several volumes that Hermione had overlooked.
Ginny was somewhat frustrated. Harry would disappear for several hours each day, and then return to sit quietly with her while she worked on her homework. The couple managed to find some time to be alone, but not a lot and that didn't suit Ginny well. Ginny finally decided to find out where Harry was going every night. She knew he was sneaking out of the dorms. She could tell from his eyes that he wasn't sleeping well again and was afraid his nightmares had returned.
Finally unable to take anymore, she enlisted the aid of Hermione to help her find out where Harry was going. The two waited silently one night to see where Harry was running off too. Ginny kept Ron out of this loop because, prat that he was, when she first mentioned Harry sneaking out he joked that maybe he'd found some action on the side. Ginny had turned his hair blue for the whole day for that remark and even Hermione was seriously put out with her boyfriend.
The two waited for nearly an hour after Harry had left the tower before heading to the room of requirement. They were sure that was where he had gone. Both girls were using Harry's invisibility cloak, so they felt fairly safe that they wouldn't get caught on the way to the room. Opening the door just enough, they slipped in. Hermione clutched at Ginny and vice versa, trying to muffle their gasps.
Harry was barefoot and he had stripped down to nothing more than a pair of pants. His torso was covered in sweat, and his muscles rippled as he dodge six of his simulated opponents dressed as Death Eaters. His speed was incredible and what was most unnerving of all, he fought completely silently. It seemed to be some strange ballet of death. His eyes glowed with power as he cast spells with both his wand and his empty hand. He dodged spells, ducked, tumbled, and leapt out of the way. In a couple of instances, he seemed to blink, one moment here, the next moment a couple feet away, with no visible movement between the two locations. The speed of the spells being cast was almost too fast to see. These were no stinging spells like the DA practiced with; the cut on his arm with blood flowing down it gave mute testimony to that. The girls watched for only a minute or two when a rebounding spell hit just to the right of Hermione causing her to let out a small squeak.
Harry immediately deactivated his opponents and stared in the direction of the noise. His eyes narrowed and he started to chuckle, the glow fading from his eyes.
"You know Gin and 'Mione, I actually expected you two to figure it out sooner than this."
Ginny let the cloak slip to floor saying.
"You knew we were here?"
Harry looked sheepish and nodded affirmatively. "I heard the two of you when you were coming in. That's why I cast a shield in front of you, incase something rebounded in your direction."
Ginny looked at Harry's bare chest. He had muscle definition, not a lot; it was more like he was built for speed, not strength. Her face took on a hungry gleam. Hermione glanced at Ginny thinking, oh Merlin I better do the talking for us both.
"Harry, what do you think you were doing? Those are dangerous spells those things were using! Look at your arm. You're bleeding!" she said in exasperation. "Here, let me heal it." Before Hermione could move, Ginny dashed to his arm, wand out and started to heal it. Hermione was sure most healers didn't touch their patients quite as much as Ginny was touching his arm and shoulder.
"Hermione, you and I both know the DA is designed to handle Death Eaters, not Voldemort himself. That's my job and I have to prepare for it as well."
Hermione knew she couldn't fault that logic. The DA was set up to handle regular opponents, it was meant to clear the field so that Harry would be able to deal with Voldemort without any distractions. She was about to say just that when she spotted Ginny, who was running her hands over Harry's chest and back, a glazed look in her eye. Harry looked EXTREMELY nervous and he gave Hermione a look that said, "What do I do?"
Hermione chuckled then said "Ginny… Ginny? GINNY!"
Ginny's head whipped around to glare at Hermione and Hermione asked her calmly.
"What are you doing, Ginny dear?"
Ginny blushed from her toes to the roots of her hair. She became a solid mass of red, she said hopefully, "Umm… looking for more cuts to heal?"
Harry looked at the two of them slyly, "Would you like to return to the tower without getting caught?" He grinned with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. Ginny grinned and grabbed the invisibility cloak from the floor.
"Each of you grab a feather when I'm aloft."
Harry transformed to Wings and when he felt the pull from two hands he flame-traveled to the Gryffindor Common room. Depositing the two girls to the floor, he changed back to his regular form. Strangely, he felt refreshed from that short trip. Saying good night to the girls, Harry waited 'til they had disappeared up the girl's stairway before he transformed back into Wings then flame-traveled above the castle.
OH THE JOY OF IT! Harry thought. He soared above the castle reveling in the ecstasy of flight. Harry screamed a song of pure delight as he dived and swooped. His eyes could spot the smallest rodent many hundreds of feet below him. The castle, the land of the Dark Forest, all came into sharp relief. Suddenly, next to Harry, another Phoenix appeared. Fawkes! Harry swooped around Fawkes and sang a song of welcome, much to the amusement of Fawkes. Harry faltered in the air, startled as a voice filled his head.
"Welcome fledging. Come perch with me on the Astronomy tower."
The two phoenixes glided down to land atop the top. Harry thought Fawkes, is that really you?
"Yes, in this time and place I am Fawkes. I just wanted to thank you for Albus. He strayed perilously near the dark side and your refusal to perform as he wanted jerked him back to the light."
The voice sounded awful familiar to Harry, but he couldn't quite place it. As far as Albus Dumbledore was concerned he should be angry, but apparently anger was an emotion unknown to phoenixes. Finally, in frustration, he thought, "I don't know what to do about Albus, Fawkes. I should be angry, but I can't be. He's hurt me so badly and tried to hurt me even more. I'd like to make peace with him, but I can't, not yet. Merlin knows I need his help, but first he needs to see me for what I am and not some tool he can use."
"All will become clear in time fledging. Now is a time for you to spread your wings and enjoy what life brings to you. Albus and you will come to a peace in time, but both of you need to grow before that can happen. Your desire to make peace with him does you credit. But enough for tonight! Let us retire to our perches; tomorrow brings a new dawn and new things to experience for all. We will talk again fledging. Know that you have my thanks!"
Fawkes vanished in a plume of fire; Harry followed right behind him, heading for his own bed and for once, a peaceful sleep.
Picnic…
The following morning was a Saturday and for the first time in weeks, Harry slept in. Ginny was surprised when he didn't show up at the morning run. Ron said that Harry was sleeping so soundly he didn't want to disturb him. When Harry still didn't show by the time she'd returned from breakfast, she became concerned. Walking up to the dorms, she found Harry lying on his bed, sleeping peacefully. She bent down and brushed her lips against his. Harry stirred slightly, so she tried it again. His eyes opened dreamily and he looked up at her.
"Hello love, did you sleep well?"
"That's a grand way to wake up Ginny, I might just throw out my alarm clock in favor of your method from here on. And yes, that was the best sleep I've had in a long time. I really think it had to do with my taking Wings form last night."
She looked at him warmly; he looked rumpled from sleep, but much better than he had in a while. Then she smiled impishly, "Well get out of bed lazy bones, breakfast is long over and I've had Dobby prepare us a picnic lunch. Parvati told me about this wonderful spot down by the lake, nice and peaceful, and very private." She stressed those last two words and gave him a suggestive look; inhaling deeply to enhance her assets and watching him eye those assets. Harry turned beet red and told her he'd need to shower first, but he'd meet her in the common room.
A short while later, the two were sitting near the shore of the lake, an outcropping of large rock hid the school from view. It was one of those perfect autumn days, sunny, not too chilly, but not to hot. Ginny was wearing a pretty floral print blouse that was unbuttoned a little too far down from the neck, and a matching skirt that seemed a little too short. Harry had trouble concentrating on the meal because the skirt kept hiking up her legs, showing him more and more.
Ginny laughed to herself and thought, Boy he's really getting distracted. It's all part of my master plan Mr. Save-the-world Potter! I don't think you'll disapprove of my plan either Harry, but you're really an innocent. Well so am I, but I know how to push your buttons!
Harry wasn't sure what Ginny had planned for today. But for some reason she kept giving him looks that were making him nervous. Almost as if she were stalking him as her next prey. As Ginny leaned over to Harry, her blouse pulled away from her body, the open buttons offering him a view he never saw before, and asked in a soft voice. "Am I making you nervous, Mr. Potter?" Harry tore his eyes away from the blouse with the wonderful internal view and nodded mutely.
Now it's time to go for the kill, Mr. Super-Wizard. You might scare Tom Riddle, but you don't scare me. You're mine now!
She leaned in closer and started to kiss Harry. Their kiss deepened with passion and she ran her hands up under his shirt. Harry's senses reeled. Incapable of rational thought, he first started to copy her hand movements as he held her. She dribbled kisses over his face, and then started on his neck. Harry's senses spun wildly and something seemed to ignite within him. He pulled her to him roughly and held her tight, kissing her like he was trying to drink her very essence. He felt like he couldn't get enough of her, his hands roaming under the back of her blouse. He kissed and nibbled along her neck and one hand slide around to her front, reveling in the sensual softness of her skin. His hand slid higher to cup her breast. Harry was in heaven; never had he felt anything so exquisite.
With a jerk, he suddenly realized exactly what he was touching. He let go of Ginny and backed quickly away, out of arms reach.
Ginny thumped to the soft grass and looked up both concerned and annoyed. Things had been going so well! Harry was sitting a few feet away looking at her fearfully and started to stammer.
"Gin… I didn't mean… don't be angry… I'm sorry…"
Ginny moved over to Harry and wrapped her arms around him. "Shhh Harry, its ok. I wanted you to touch me there."
He looked at her, surprised. She picked up one of his hands and placed it directly atop her breast and kissed him again. Again their passion started to spiral out of control. After what seemed an eternity Harry gasped. Grabbing Ginny's busy hands with his own, he held them tight. Looking down, he panted with the effort to calm his racing pulse. The blood flow problem wasn't helping matters either! Ginny whimpered and tried to move closer. "Wait Gin, give me a minute," Harry said, breathing heavily.
Once he'd regained control of his raging hormones, once his breathing returned to normal, he looked up at the beautiful young woman before him.
"Ginny, I want you so badly, I need you so much it hurts. But not like this. Please, I want our first time to be really special. I promise you it will happen, it's too important to both of us. But we need to do this right. Please?"
Ginny looked deeply into those emerald green eyes, hovering just inches away from her own, and could see the truth in them. He did want her, he did need her, but he wanted it to be just right. Reluctantly she nodded and felt his joy as he pulled her into a hug. On one hand, she was annoyed, but on the other hand, she was pleased with his request. He was a man of honor and put hers even above his own.
Later, they sat next to each other, simply enjoying each other's company over a couple butterbeers. Ginny turned to Harry and asked, "Harry, do you ever think about the future?"
"I heard Ron and Hermione talking the other day about what they wanted to do. Ron talked about either being an Auror or maybe trying out for professional Quidditch. 'Mione talked about either being a teacher or an unspeakable and raising a family."
"But what about yourself Harry. What do you see for the future, for yourself?"
Harry looked down at the grass and said in a low voice.
"I don't know Gin. I'm not sure I'm allowed to have one. I have a dream of what I'd like, but like Dumbledore once told me in my first year, 'It does not do to dwell on dreams…' I have a sweet dream, but I try to forget about it, only I can't forget it."
Ginny looked at him and blinked. Then she stood up, placed her arms on her hips, and glared at him.
"HARRY JAMES POTTER, IF YOU DON'T PLAN FOR A FUTURE YOU MIGHT AS WELL CALL TOM RIDDLE RIGHT NOW AND ASK HIM TO KILL YOU BECAUSE HE'S ALREADY WON! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU'D BE SO SELFISH! YOU DO HAVE A FUTURE HARRY JAMES POTTER AND IF YOU DON'T BELIEVE ME, I'LL HEX YOU INTO NEXT WEEK!"
Dripping with anger, she finished in a low, steely voice. "Do you honestly think I'd go out with a man that has no future?" Then she softened her tone, "Tell me your dream Harry."
Harry gave her a look that she had learned to call 'The embarrassed Harry'.
"I won't laugh at your dream Harry, I promise." She sat down next to him again and nudged him with her shoulder.
Harry looked down at the grass again and sighed. She reached over and pulled his chin so he was looking at her. Harry lost himself in her chocolate brown eyes, Ginny whispered, "Please tell me…"
Harry stared into her eyes and couldn't refuse her. In a whisper he said, "To spend my life with you; to fall asleep in your arms and wake up to your kiss. To have a home and a place were our children could grow up happy, like your family, a place where I can be Harry, not the Boy-Who-Lived…"
Ginny's eyes widened and she rocked backwards, looking at Harry. She had thought he'd talk about a job, like teaching or being an Auror, or maybe even Minister of Magic someday. She'd hoped he'd make room in there somewhere for her, but his dream shocked her to the core. His dream didn't center on a career or a lifelong ambition. It centered on being loved by her and loving her back.
Harry looked at her nervously and muttered, "I guess it's a real silly drea…" Ginny stopped him mid-sentence by flinging herself on him and covering his face with kisses.
Ginny stopped kissing him long enough to say, "Its not silly Harry. Your dream sounds so sweet, and I want you to know Mr. Harry Potter, I intend to help you make that dream come true!"
It was only a day, and like so many good things in life, it ended much to soon. It was one of the best days of Harry's life. In the years to come, they would look back on that day with a fondness, for such days are more powerful than all the magic in the world.
Teacher Conferences…
The first Hogsmeade visit was next Saturday, barely 2 weeks away. Autumn had turned chilly and the school was talking about the Halloween Ball in two weeks. Harry, Ginny, Ron and Hermione were sitting at the table enjoying their breakfast when Professor Serena Snape stopped by the four of them and spoke.
"Miss Weasley, tonight your mother will be here at 6pm for a Parent-Teacher Conference. I expect you to join us in my private quarters at 7pm."
Ginny paled even further than anyone would have thought possible and nodded fearfully. Professor Snape moved to join the teacher's table thinking to herself, "A little reflection on her past actions and performance in class won't hurt her. OH MERLIN! I'm getting as bad as Severus!"
Harry, Ron and Hermione turned to the trembling Ginny. Hermione spoke up, "Ginny, you really have nothing to worry about! Your grades are nearly as good as mine were in that year and you've not ruined a single potion."
Ginny nodded her head rapidly. Harry shrugged and said, "Say the word Gin, and I'll kill her for you." Ron, Hermione and Ginny gaped at Harry. Grinning, he continued, "Hey, a teacher has got to be easier than your all powerful Dark Lord. Cheer up, Ginny. Things have been entirely too serious around here lately. This is a job for the Marauders! Pick your victim Gin, and we'll put together a prank that will put the twins to shame!"
Hermione frowned at this and muttered, "I'm not hearing this. I'm not hearing this! Ahhhh… there's Professor McGonagall, I need to speak to her about something." With that, she got up to talk to McGonagall at the teacher's table.
Ron shook his head saying, "You know I love that girl, but sometimes I think she's barking with less than a full set of fleas!" He blinked rapidly as it dawned on that he's just compared his girlfriend to a dog.
Ginny choked on her drink spraying Harry's left side with pumpkin juice. Harry looked at his robe and sighed. It seems that some times there really was no justice in the world.
Ginny, who'd started laughing, pulled her wand out of her pocket. And thus the world learned that casting the 'Scourgify' charm while giggling, turns the intended target bright yellow. Ron looked at Harry, goggling at him, and Ginny crammed her fist into her mouth, trying to calm the hysterical laughter gurgling in the back of her throat. Harry yanked out his wand.
"Finite Incantatum," he murmured, returning his robe to normal. He pointed his wand at Ginny and tried to look menacing at her.
"Do you want some of this?" He asked.
She stopped giggling and leaned up to whisper in his ear; "I'd rather play with your other wand!" Laughing, she caressed his cheek with one hand while Harry sat there, frozen to his seat, looking at her.
Professor McGonagall's Office…
The professor sat, looking bemused, as one of her favorite students paced back in forth in front of her desk. Clearly she was concerned about something. Finally, Minerva cleared her throat and pierced her student with the patented McGonagall look, designed to strike fear in the hearts of all students.
"Miss Granger, I realize that something's gotten you upset, but I can not help you if you continue pacing back and forth, muttering to yourself."
"Oh I'm sorry Professor. The problem is…well this is just too weird for me to believe it, but I'm becoming convinced its true." Hermione stopped pacing and faced McGonagall. "Professor, I'm concerned about Harry."
"Harry? You refer to Mr. Potter, I presume? What sort of trouble has he gotten himself into this time? Or are we talking about something else? I thought Miss Weasley was overseeing his ahem… romantic interests."
"Oh no Professor, its nothing like that," she stammered. "It's just that I've begun to notice a few things about Harry that have struck me as…well, odd."
Professor McGonagall leaned forward with a sense of foreboding and motioned for her to continue.
"Are you aware that Harry does not know what a noble metal is Professor? And he apparently is unaware that it's supposed to be impossible to conjure gemstones, let alone precious gems. Professor, I have a theory about this, but I need help in proving it.
Harry would suspect me if I asked him to try this, but he'd go along with this from you Professor. He respects you and sees you as a trustable authority figure. All I ask is that you give him a piece of metal and tell him to try this incantation. 'Comburo Fonticulus'. Tell him it will produce a small fountain of fire in the midst of the metal object you gave him."
"Really Miss Granger... Comburo Fonticulus? Burning Fountain, if I remember my Latin properly. But this isn't a real spell Miss Granger. Nothing will happen."
"That's quite true for you and I Professor, but Harry doesn't know that."
"You mean…"
"I think so Professor. I wasn't sure of it before, but now I'm convinced it's true."
Later that Day, Transfiguration Class…
The class was still split. Another three students joined the original six who had opted not to test for their animagus form because they couldn't transform at all. While the larger group studied the process and the laws governing wizards who transform, the smaller group concentrated on conjuring metal objects and molding them to the desired form. In the past few weeks they had made buttons, flatware of all types, pots, pans, even cauldrons.
To be honest, Harry was beginning to get bored. He was consistently conjuring objects, then adding artistic designs to them. Over the course of a few days, he'd conjured up a setting of flatware for twelve and inlaid the flatware with the crest of Gryffindor. McGonagall was so impressed, he earned ten points for his house and she said she'd keep the set to use at teacher meetings. This was a clear indication of her desire to annoy the Slytherin Head of House.
"Mr. Potter, may I see you up here for a moment?"
Harry got up and walked to McGonagall's desk.
"Yes Professor?"
"I'd like you to try something for me, Mr. Potter. I found an old spell that creates a pillar of fire from a block of metal. I thought it might be useful for heating some of the metals you've been using, making them softer. Simply point your wand at the metal block on my desk and use the incantation 'Comburo Fonticulus'."
This could be useful, Harry thought. He looked at the block McGonagall had provided; it appeared to be a piece of regular iron, about the size of a small book.
Harry pulled out his wand and murmured, "Comburo Fonticulus" over the block of metal. The metal seemed to glow briefly, and then a small jet of flame appeared, coming from the center of the block of metal. The flame shot up a good six inches, burning an intense blue white. Waves of heat radiated from the pillar. Both McGonagall and Harry stepped back. McGonagall looked at Harry and said, "Very good Mr. Potter, quite impressive really. Now, let's see if you can turn it off with a 'finite incantatem'."
Harry pointed his wand at the pillar and cast the spell. The pillar flared once and extinguished itself. McGonagall eyed Harry carefully, looking for signs of fatigue or stress.
"Tell me Mr. Potter, how do you feel after doing that?"
"I'm fine Professor. I don't think I'd want to make a bigger fountain though. That was harder than it looked."
"Very well Mr. Potter, you may return to your seat. If you need to, rest for a bit before resuming your lesson."
"Yes, Professor."
As Harry returned to his seat, Professor McGonagall caught Hermione's eye. She nodded to the young woman and returned to the task of teaching her class.
Slytherin Private quarters, that evening…
Serena Snape glanced up at the clock on the living room wall. Molly Weasley was due in a few minutes, and Serena was feeling nervous. This meeting was more important than grades, or behavior. A boy's sense of self-worth was on the line, and Serena desperately needed help if her plan had any hope of succeeding.
After making sure the tea service was in place, she tossed her hair over her shoulder and once again straightened her light green sundress. She fidgeted slightly, attempting to make the hem hang just so.
"Now this is something I never thought I'd see," said an amused voice from the doorway.
Serena whipped around and glared at the man leaning against the door jam. "What?" She asked, suspicious of the half smile on Severus' face.
"The woman who can brew an immolation potion, grade papers, and give a lecture on the addictive ingredients of a Dreamless Sleep Potion to a room of fourth years, all at the same time, finds herself nervous at the thought of talking to a student and her mother? Amazing," he drawled, pushing himself away from the door and walking towards her. "I never thought I'd see the day…"
"Shut it, Severus. I'm not in the mood for your humor tonight," she scowled at him. "You know what's at stake. You know why I'm meeting with Molly and Ginny Weasley."
Snape wrapped his arms around his wife and looked down at her with a sigh. "Yes, I do know. I just don't see the need for nerves. They certainly won't help matters. Besides, Molly Weasley has thought of the boy as one of her own for many years. Thanks to the Ministry's involvement, he IS one of her own now. The only thing you have to remember about Molly is, she'll go to hell and back for one of her children, and Harry is now, officially hers. Think of her as a mother lion, protecting her cubs. She'll help you, Serena. Relax."
Serena laid her head against her husband's chest. "True. And there's no question of Ginny's willingness to help. That girl would have herself magically connected to the boy's hip, if given half the chance!"
"Connected at the hip? No, somewhere more…interesting, if I don't miss my guess."
Serena slapped his arm. "Severus, behave!"
"But I thought you like it when I was …"
Serena slapped her hand over his mouth to shut him up and glared. "That's it, I think it's time for you to leave. Don't you have papers to grade or something?"
Severus bit her palm, kissed it, and then removed it from his mouth. "Sadly, yes. As much as I'd love to stay and listen, I don't think I could put up with a night of 'girl talk'. I'll be in the library when you're done." Giving her hand one last squeeze, he walked out of the room.
That man, she thought to herself. One of these days I'm going to…
Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Taking a cleansing breath, she walked out to the entry hall and opened the door. Standing before her was short woman, with a very motherly figure. The red hair, so typically Weasley, was in a tidy twist at the nape of her neck.
"Mrs. Weasley? It's so nice to meet! I'm Serena Snape."
"Professor Snape, it's good to meet you at last. Ginny sent us an owl about her new Potion Mistress of course, but it's so nice to finally be able to speak with you. Although, I wish it could be under better circumstances."
Serena stared at the woman for a moment, before remember her manners and inviting her in. Once settled in the living room, the tea poured, Serena asked, "You mentioned something about 'better circumstances'?"
"Well, yes. I'm assuming one of my children have done something to warrant this meeting. So which of the three darlings am I going to be shrieking at tonight, Professor Snape?"
"Three?" Serena asked, trying not to smile.
"Ron, Harry or Ginny," Mrs. Weasley said, with a roll of her eyes. "I swear those three are almost as bad as the twins. Not with pranks so much, mind you. But if there's trouble to be found, one or all of those three, along with Miss Granger of course, will find it!"
Serena couldn't help herself. She started to laugh quietly. She already thinks of Harry as one of hers, she thought. Severus was right, drat that man. Just once I'd like him to be wrong. Not in this, of course, but…She was brought back to the present conversation when Mrs. Weasley started speaking once again.
"I'm not sure which one did it, or even what they did, but I assure you Professor, Arthur and I take these things very seriously."
Smiling, Serena said, "I'm afraid you've come here with a slight misconception, Mrs. Weasley. None of your children have done anything wrong. Actually, I find all three of them bright, capable students."
Putting her teacup down, Molly asked, puzzled, "Then I'm afraid I'm at a loss. Why am I here, Professor?"
"First, please call me Serena, if you don't mind. I've always hated formalities."
"Of course. Please call me Molly. But Prof…Serena, I'm afraid I still don't understand."
Frowning into her teacup, Serena thought to herself, here goes nothing.
"Molly, I've asked you here to discuss Harry. No, no, he's done nothing wrong," she added quickly, as Molly stiffened and sat up on the edge of the couch cushion. "It's more in the manner of how we can help him."
"Help him? What's wrong? What's happened? Is he all right?" Molly asked, beginning to panic. Merlin! What now? That child has been through enough!
"Molly, please. Nothing's wrong. I'm sure Harry is in the Gryffindor common room right now, doing his homework, or playing wizards chess with Ron. No, what I want to discuss is Harry's self esteem.
I don't know all of Harry's past. I know some of what happened when he lived with his aunt and uncle. And I know what happened to him just before he came to Hogwarts this year. Severus was in the infirmary when Harry arrived, and told me what followed. Mrs. Weasley…Molly, have you noticed how…fragile Harry's sense of self worth is?"
Molly sat back. Frowning, she said, "Yes, Arthur and I have discussed this over the years. Harry is a hard one to figure out sometimes. Push him on something and he'll dig his heels in faster than you can spit. We thought, if we could just get him to talk to us, to someone, about what was happening to him on Privet Drive, it would help. But he won't. The walls that boy's built over the years come up fast and he shuts down. Hermione said once that she felt like Harry thought he deserved what his aunt and uncle did to him. Damn those wretched people," Molly exclaimed fiercely.
Setting her teacup on the coffee table, Serena turned to Molly. "This is why I've asked you here, Molly. We need to find a way to help him. Harry is a bit of an enigma. What he's suffered through should have produced a young man who is distrustful of all those around him, with no sense of what it is to love anyone else."
"Voldemort…" Molly whispered, then flinched when she realized what she just said.
"Yes, exactly! Instead, we have a respectful, moral, trusting young man, willing to help anyone in need. He also has an incredible willingness to love, and a need to be loved in return. However, with his low self esteem, and all that's come before with Cedric and his godfather, he feels he doesn't deserve to be loved, or trusted."
"Harry knows that we love him. The children have thought of him as a member of the family since his second year. Well, perhaps not Ginny, but…"
"While I'm sure that's true," Serene interrupted, "do you believe that Harry has accepted your feelings for him? And what would happen if he were rejected by your family?"
Molly reared up off the couch, incensed. "How dare you suggest we would ever turn our backs on Harry! We love that boy! He's like our son. He IS our son!"
As the woman continued her rant, Serena thought to herself, Mother lion indeed; ten points to Slytherin, Severus. You were right once again, damn you…Smiling at the thought, she coughed suddenly when she realized Molly had wound down, and was now glaring daggers at her.
"Molly, I was not suggesting your family would ever turn their backs on Harry. I was trying to think like a boy who feels he doesn't deserve it. As I said, Harry is an enigma. Trying to figure out what that young man is thinking or feeling is difficult. I apologize for any insult I may have inadvertently given you or Arthur."
Molly grimaced and sat back down with a sigh. "No, no. I'm sorry if I overreacted. You're right. Harry is a hard one to figure out. Arthur and I have wanted nothing more than to bring the boy into our home, into our family for years. He needs a stable home environment, a family's love. He needs normalcy in his life, something he's never had. The problem is getting him to realize that he deserves these things, and to accept them when they're given."
"Self confidence," murmured Serena.
"Simply put, yes," Molly replied. "But how? Harry doesn't take compliments well. He gets embarrassed when I fuss over him or give him praise."
"But that's just what he needs, embarrassed or not. We need to help him build his sense of self worth, Molly. I can do some of that in the classroom, but you and Arthur, as his parents, will be in a position to help the most."
Noticing the tears in Molly's eyes, Serena leaned over and took a few tissues from a box on the coffee table and handed them to the weeping woman with concern. "Have I said something to upset you, Molly?"
"No, no…it's just…his parents. The paperwork is complete of course, but no one's ever called us his parents before," she said, mopping her face and smiling.
Nodding her understanding, Serena picked up her teacup and took a sip while the woman next to her collected herself.
"So, Arthur and I will do what we can as his parents. Perhaps we should speak to Hermione as well. My Ron, well, he's not the most sensitive person. But Hermione is. And Ginny. Ginny will help of course."
"Yes, Ginny. That's something else I wished to speak to you about…"
Gryffindor Common Room…
Ginny sat at a table in the common room, trying to finish her Herbology homework; one foot of parchment on how to eradicate Puss Beetles from the Stink Sap plant. Honestly, thought Ginny, who cares? Let the nasty little buggers have the plant. Sure, it's pretty, but the smell! Hmm, I wonder if Hermione would consider starting a campaign to save the Puss Beetle? Not that it would get me out of this homework assignment!
Sighing, she shoved the parchment away in frustration and glanced at the clock. Almost time, she thought, as a pair of hands came down on her shoulders, gently.
"Relax Gin," Harry said softly in her ear, sending shivers down her spine. "It won't be that bad. The most they'll do is yell at you and maybe give you detention. If it were really serious, you'd be going to the Headmasters office, not Professor Snape's quarters."
Ginny leaned back against him, taking comfort from his warmth. "I know. I just hate not knowing why I'm being called down there."
Taking her hand, Harry pulled her out of her seat and turned her to face him. "Gin, relax," he repeated. "It'll be ok. I'll wait up for you and we'll talk about it when you get back. But you better get going. Professor Snape may be nicer than her husband, but I don't think she'd be real happy with you if you were late."
"Gee, thanks Harry! You sure know just what to say to a girl to make her feel better," Ginny huffed.
Laughing, Harry bent down, touched his forehead to hers and whispered, "I'll think of something to cheer you up when you get back." He then kissed her gently, sweetly, on the mouth, while Ron made retching noises in the background where he was playing chess with Dean.
"Well, if it's more of that, this will be the fastest parent/teacher conference in the history of Hogwarts," Ginny said with a grin, before heading for the portrait hole.
On her way to the dungeon and Professor Snape's quarters, Ginny's nervousness came back in a rush. I hate this. Called to a conference and having no idea what it's about would drive anyone mad. Maybe that's the point. Maybe Serena Snape is more like her husband than anyone thought. This would be something he'd do, slimly git that he is. Oh Merlin, what if they found out about the dung bomb I dropped from the third floor stairwell last Monday? No, no, it can't be that. No one saw me. Maybe it was the invisible ink I added to the pumpkin juice at the Slytherin table on Wednesday morning. No, it can't be that either. The affects didn't show up for over an hour. And honestly, it's not like black stained teeth every hurt anyone!
Ginny was startled from her reverie when she found herself at Professor Snape's door. She knocked, very softly. Maybe she won't answer. She can't answer if she doesn't hear me. 'I'm sorry Professor. I did knock, but no one answered.' Yes, that could work. I'll just say…
The door opened and Ginny jumped back with a small squeak. So much for that idea, Ginny thought as she looked up into the glaring eyes of Severus Snape.
"Miss Weasley," Severus drawled, noticing the girl's nervousness. "Your mother and Professor Snape are in the living room. If you'll follow me?"
Following the Professor's instructions, she entered the hallway as he closed the door. Trailing after him, she entered the living room to find her mother and Serena Snape sitting on the couch, drinking tea.
"Ginny darling," her mother cried as she stood up and walked around the couch to hug her. "It's so nice to see you. Severus, thank you for escorting her in."
"Of course, Molly. If you'll excuse me?" Noticing the woman wasn't paying any attention to him as she seated her daughter on the couch and served her tea, he glanced at his wife, one eyebrow raised.
Serena gave him a wink, before waving her hands in a shooing motion. Rolling his eyes, he turned and left the room. Dismissed like a house-elf, Severus thought. Women! I mean, honestly…
Serena tried not to laugh at the put upon expression that crossed her husbands face before he turned away. He's a good man, but he really needs to lighten up sometimes.
Turning back to her guests, she saw that Ginny had been seated and served by her mother. Taking the chair across from the couch, Serena sat and waited patiently for mother and daughter to get caught up.
Ginny could be the lynch pin in this whole plan, Serena thought. The girl's obviously crazy for Harry. I know she'll want to help. She may even have a few ideas about how to approach the problem. He's probably closer to her than anyone. Well, maybe. They haven't been going out that long…
"Um, Professor?"
Blinking, she glanced over at the young red head and smiled. "Hello, Ginny. I'm sure you're wondering why I've asked you here."
"Yes, Professor. Worried, actually. I haven't done anything wrong, well ok there was those dung bombs, but still Professor. Honestly. I really like potions now. You're a great teacher, much better than…" Ginny stopped, horrified at what she'd just said. "I'm sorry, Professor, I didn't mean…"
Serena laughed, interrupting Ginny's rambling apology. "My dear girl, you've nothing to apologize for. Of course I'm a better teacher then Severus," she added, noting the shadow of her husband in the doorway. Revenge is sweet, husband! As you are about to learn, you sneaky Slytherin! "I mean really, who wouldn't be? He's dark, broody, and just so Slytherin! Always sneaking around, spying on people…" She stopped as a rude noise came from the doorway. "Would you like to join us, Severus? Or would you rather continue to lurk in dark corners as usual," she called out with a wink towards the Weasley women.
"I'll speak to you later, wife," Severus said menacingly from the doorway, before stalking away.
Serena grinned knowingly at the two women. "The training process is slow, but I have great hopes for that man," she said as Molly laughed. Ginny snickered.
"Well, now that the Slytherin's been taken care of, why don't we put Ginny out of her agony and explain why she's here." Serena looked Ginny in the eye and said, "It's about Harry, Ginny. We need your help."
Ginny stiffened. Harry had told her about his 'talk' with Dumbledore. Now a teacher was wanted to talk about him? Did the Headmaster have anything to do with this? Was he trying to use Ginny to get to Harry again?
"I'm sorry Professor. If this has anything to do with what happened between the Headmaster and Harry, I won't help you. I love Harry, and I will not allow you, Dumbledore or anyone else to hurt him!"
"Ah yes. I'd forgotten about that. Severus told me what took place in Dumbledore's office." This could be a problem.
"What's this? Something's happened between Dumbledore and Harry?" Molly asked, concerned.
Still staring at her Professor with hostility, Ginny said, "I'll explain later Mum. If that's all Professor, I still have homework to complete tonight."
"No Ginny, I'm afraid that's not all," Serena said, a hint of steel in her voice. "What happened between the Headmaster and Harry is between them. For what it's worth, I believe Harry was entirely correct in what he said to the Headmaster. However, that is not what your mother and I wish to discuss with you."
Ginny tilted her head and stared her professor, thinking. "Alright," she said a few moments later. "What did you want to talk about?"
"Ginny darling," her mother said, gaining her attention. "I'm sure you've noticed Harry's self esteem issues."
Serena flinched inwardly. All the finesse of a steam roller there, Molly, she thought. It might have been better to…
"Of course," Ginny replied in the equivalent of a verbal shrug. "Anyone who knows Harry realizes that except for Harry himself. I'm trying to work on it though. Why?"
As Molly explained the problem to her daughter, Serena relaxed in her chair. Obviously the woman knew how best to address the issue with her child. As she continued to listen to the young girl and her mother speak, throwing in a comment herself from time to time, she began to realize that this just might work.
Ginny's revelations…
Thirty minutes later, the discussion of self-esteem and how best to help the green-eyed lad was winding down. Serena was pouring more tea into her cup when Ginny's response to her mother's last question nearly made her drop teapot.
"That would NEVER happen," Ginny yelled furiously, leaping to her feet. "I can't believe you would even THINK that Mother! Harry, the next Voldemort? Are you insane?" She shrieked.
"Ginny! Calm down and listen to me!" her mother said loudly. "With everything that Harry's been through, it would be easy for him to…"
"Easy? You've gone mental!" Ginny started to pace. "Voldemort killed his parents, Mother! He's fought Voldemort four times and despises everything that…that…THING stands for! He can't stand to see anyone get hurt. Do you honestly believe he'd be able to kill someone? Barking, you are!"
"Ginerva Weasley! You will not speak to me in such a way, young lady!" her mother said heatedly. "You will sit down and listen to me."
"No mum, I won't! You don't understand," she said. "But then, you wouldn't know would you," she muttered to herself. "I can't tell you, but you need to know. I promised…I think I did. Oh, I don't know!" She stopped pacing and stared at her mother, scowling.
"Ginny, what is it," Serena asked gently.
Ginny jumped and whirled around, having forgotten all about her professor. Oh Merlin! If they really think Harry capable of something like that; Harry, the next Voldemort? They have to know, but…Oh Merlin. Harry, forgive me!
"I have to tell you both something. I don't want to, but I have to. So, you're both going to swear a witch's oath that you will NEVER reveal what I'm about to tell you. Will you do that?" Ginny asked, sternly.
"Ginny, I hardly think that's necessary," her mother began.
"It is mum. Very. And if you can't give me that oath, then I'm not going to tell you one more bloody thing!"
"Ginerva! Language!" her mother admonished.
"I mean it mum. That goes for you too, Professor!" Ginny said, surly.
Serena eyed the young woman before her with interest. This one is fierce in her loyalty. All the better for Harry.
Making a decision, Serena stood and pulled out her wand. Casting a silencing charm on the door, she turned to Ginny. "I give you my oath as a witch, not to reveal what you say from this point, until the charm is removed from the door." Then she placed her wand on the table in plain sight.
Ginny nodded then turned to her mother, one eyebrow raised.
Molly huffed, but repeated the oath, word for word.
Ginny sighed in relief, and then rubbed her forehead. "Alright. Harry wouldn't…no, cannot become like Voldemort. He simply cannot turn from the light. He is incapable of it," She said with conviction.
The two women were startled by the girl's certainty, but both were still unsure.
"Ginny, I know that loving someone means seeing only what's best and good in that person," Serena began.
Ginny snorted. "You obviously don't know Harry. A more stubborn, hard headed, clumsy…I mean honesty, you should have seen him when he accidentally touched one of my breasts down at the snogging place at the lake. I mean…" Ginny stopped in shock, staring at her mother. "Umm, I didn't mean to say that. Really mum, it was an accident. I mean, not that we were there, but that he…I mean, we weren't doing anything…well, we were, but it was just kissing…really, mum, we didn't…it was just KISSING," she ended, desperately.
Molly, who'd turned an alarming shade of red by this point, opened her mouth, but Serena cut in.
"Molly, we'll get back to that. But right now, I think we need to come back to the topic at hand."
Molly looked mutinous for a moment, before finally nodding. "We'll discuss this in a bit, young lady. Now, if you don't mind?"
"Mind? Mind what," Ginny asked in confusion, eyeing her mother warily.
"The silencing charm was put up for a reason Ginny. Remember?" Serena asked gently, heading off Molly's temper.
"What? Oh yeah. Umm…"
"You were telling us why Harry could never be like Voldemort," Serena said, trying not to grin.
"Right. Yes. Harry could never be like Voldemort," Ginny parroted, still staring at her mother.
Sighing, Serena walked over to Ginny and turned her away from her mother. Tilting the girl's head up, she looked into her brown eyes. "Ginny, with everything that's happened to Harry over the years, it wouldn't take much to send him over the edge. With his poor sense of self worth…"
"No, it just can't happen," Ginny said softly, finally refocused.
"Why?" Serena asked, just as softly.
"His animagus form won't allow for it, Professor."
Serena was shocked. Animagus?
"His what, dear?" Molly asked.
"His animagus mum. He practiced it over the summer. Right good he is too. He's got it down perfectly now."
"Being an animagus does not preclude one from being evil, Ginny," Serena said calmly.
"That would depend on what form a person took, Professor."
"True enough." Serena replied. "But that would mean transforming into a magical creature and that's exceedingly rare. There hasn't been one in ages," she continued, almost to herself. Starting to pace, she continued. "But a form that would preclude evil? That would have to be something like a Unicorn or a…" She stopped and whirled around to stare at Ginny in disbelief.
"Or a Phoenix," Ginny said simply.
Serena felt her jaw drop, but for the life of her, could do nothing about it. A Phoenix? Bloody hell! No wonder Ginny was so certain! And that would certainly explain the ring Harry made. This meant…
Closing her mouth, she glanced over at Molly, who sat in stunned disbelief. "You're right Ginny," she said quietly, turning back to the girl and, for the first time, noticing the ring on her finger. Taking Ginny's hand and passing a finger over the ring, she smiled. "Harry cannot become evil."
"Harry has a lot of problems, Professor. But being evil isn't one of them," Ginny said, impishly. Turning towards her mother, she grinned. "Oh snap out of it, mum. Harry's safe for now. His animagus won't allow him to be the next Voldemort. I'd think you'd be happy about that, not gob smacked!"
Molly sighed and rubbed her eyes tiredly, mumbling, "An animagus in the family. An animagus. Unregistered to boot. Merlin." Looking up at her daughter's impish face, she huffed. "Well, at least he didn't become a dog! The cat would go bonkers!"
Ginny burst out laughing, while her mother looked a bit sheepish. Serena just looked puzzled.
"Family joke dear," Molly said to Serena. "With this new information, I certainly feel better," she continued, changing the subject. "I don't think we have to worry about Harry turning away from the light, Serena."
"No, thankfully. Thank you for telling us Ginny. It's a relief."
Ginny shrugged. "I only ask that you keep your oaths."
Both women nodded.
"Now Ginny dear. I believe there was something mentioned about a 'snogging place'? Perhaps we should be discussing a new topic, hmm?" Ginny cringed.
Molly started to say something and Ginny cut her off. "Mum you really have nothing to worry about. I tried very hard with Harry, but he… he…" She sighed and kicked herself mentally.
"We were out in a place Parvati told me about. It's secluded and the school's hidden by a large rock. We started kissing. Harry touched me accidentally and was so afraid and scared I would be angry with him, he jumped away like I was going to hex him. He was in tears, begging me not to be angry.
When I tried to convince him it was ok, he still wouldn't go any further than kissing. I tried very hard mum, and maybe I should be ashamed of myself, but I'm not. At first I was a little hurt, but he said he wanted our first time to be special, to be perfect. It still hurts a little, but I think I understand what he was trying to tell me. I know he wanted me, I could see him fighting with himself over it.
So instead we sat there and talked. I ended up yelling at him because he told me he wouldn't make any plans about his future. He said he had a sweet dream, but he didn't believe in it, partly because of what Dumbledore once told him. How did he put it? He said Dumbledore said to him 'It does not do to dwell on dreams.' Oh Merlin, he's taken so much from Harry!"
Ginny was sobbing at this point but she continued.
"I pressed him about his dream and he finally admitted he wanted to spend the rest of his life with me, raise children, have a loving family like we have, he said. But for him, it's a dream only, something he doesn't think will happen because of who he is and what he has do to."
Ginny wound down and looked at her mother, her eyes pleading that she tell her everything would work out ok. Molly looked at her daughter for a moment, her own eyes brimming over.
"Ginny dear, that boy is a keeper. Even I can see he cares very much for you. And now that I know about the animagus issue, it explains how you two managed to grow so close over the summer, despite his being locked up with those awful muggles. I can't say I'm pleased that you're so willing to give yourself away like that, but I shouldn't be one to cast blame. I was your age when I decided your father was the one for me."
She grinned sheepishly and said, "It might have been nice if Arthur had shown the same restraint."
Molly paused for a moment, thinking. "Ginny, I just want you to promise me one thing. I don't expect you to keep your hands to yourself, but I do ask that you take all the precautions necessary to insure you don't make me a grandmother until you've at least graduated. Merlin knows I love Harry like my own sons, and would dearly love to see the two of you together, but I'm too young to be a grandmother yet. My advice would be to go very slowly with him. He's not like other boys you've dated."
Serena frowned and interrupted Molly before she could continue. "Ginny, I'm curious. Are you saying Harry doesn't believe he has a future?"
Ginny nodded.
"I told him to knock off that kind of talk and I intended to make sure his dream came true, but I'm not sure he really believes it."
Serena asked quietly, "Do you know why he believes this?"
Ginny nodded in affirmation, then said, "I'm sorry that I can't tell you, even with the oath. It's a secret and Harry would never forgive me. All I'll say is, he tells me that I'm the reason he even has a chance at a future."
"Well Ginny, I guess you'll have to convince him there is always a reason for hope. Who knows, you might even be able to wear the lad down. I have to admit that, hearing of a 16 year old boy with that kind of restraint seems unnatural. At the very least, you'll force him to take many cold showers. I can't say I'm entirely happy with what I've heard, but I am reassured.
"Ginny, is Harry waiting for you back in your common room?"
Ginny nodded worriedly.
"Alright, let's give him an excuse for this meeting. How about an hours worth of detention tomorrow, here in my quarters, for those dung bombs of yours? We'll have some tea and talk about how our iron willed Mr. Potter might find his will eroded. After all, I tamed the ominous Severus Snape, I might have some advice as to wearing down Harry Potter's resolve." Molly chuckled, and Ginny glanced down at her feet.
Molly and Ginny stood up and thanked Serena for her time, then exited the apartment. They hugged before Ginny left for her common room. As Molly left Hogwarts wards, she took a deep breath, blew out the air from her lungs, and apparated back to The Burrow with a 'Pop'.
Authors Notes:
This is got to be the largest chapter to date. I hope the others won't be as long. But there was a lot of ground to cover.
The rift between Harry and Dumbledore will mend eventually, but don't look for it anytime soon. The first problem was to create the rift without destroying either of them or the surrounding countryside. Now it's out in the open with this chapter.
I know that some people are uncomfortable with a nicer Snape, but it's not a totally alien idea. I don't pretend to know what JKR has in store for Snape, but in this story, and rather soon, Severus and Harry will become friendlier to each other.
If the concept of a Snape/Harry friendship intrigues you, I'd strongly suggest the stories written by Celebony. Mind you, I'm talking about a friendship, not some slash thingie. To be honest the slash stories make my flesh crawl, but that's just me.
Finally some have commented about why Harry didn't use magic against the Dursleys. Well forgetting there are laws against magical abuse of muggles. There is still the abuse issue. Long time victims of such behavior tend to develop attitudes that imply that they are somehow at fault and deserving of the abuse. Also remember that Vernon surprise Harry at the end of the summer, stunning him with the first blow. He wasn't in any shape to fight back.