Standard Disclaimed: Me own nothing. Everything is the property of JK Rowlings. I'm just playing with these characters.
Professor McGonagall's Office, The Monday following the dance…
Harry was still walking around in a bit of a blissful daze; the dance with Ginny had gone very well! So when Professor McGonagall asked him to come to her office after breakfast, he wasn't too worried.
Professor McGonagall looked up from her desk as Harry entered; she looked at him as if evaluating him for a moment before speaking.
"Ah, Mr. Potter. Professor Snape told me about your achievement and I can't say I'm surprised. I am a little disappointed that you would wish to hide it from us however. I always suspected you were capable of such excellent work if you'd just apply yourself. And I'm glad to see I was right." Now her tone turned stern. "I strongly applaud your scholarship Mr. Potter, but if you ever hide something like this again I will be most displeased.
Now then, getting to business. Professors Snape have asked that several teachers meet them tonight in their private quarters to discuss your work and how it might possibly be expanded upon. I have no doubt that several people will wish for you to demonstrate your hypothesis. To that end, you will be joining us for dinner, rather than going to the Great Hall. We don't wish to put you on the spot, Mr. Potter, but this is necessary."
"I understand, Professor," Harry replied.
"Good. Now, as you have no class first period, you have two visitors who will be arriving in a few minutes. They will be able to spend some time with you before your class. You may meet them outside the entrance to the Gryffindor tower. Feel free to bring them into the common room if you wish. Off you go."
Harry turned around and started to exit the office when McGonagall called, "Oh, Mr. Potter?"
He turned. "Yes, Professor?"
She looked up from the paper she was grading, sent him a slight smile and said, "Well done, Harry."
Harry gave her a shy look before turning around once again and leaving the office. He hadn't taken two steps from the door when Hermione barreled past him, heading into the office. As she passed him, she threw him a quick smile and a breathless "Hi Harry!" before darting through the door.
Shaking his head, Harry headed up to meet his two unknown visitors.
Professor McGonagall looked up as Hermione Granger, one of her favorite students, rushed into the office.
"Miss Granger, please be seated. One of our students has made a rather impressive breakthrough and it's been suggested that you might be of assistance. Your organizational skills and research capabilities are some of the best we've seen in Hogwarts in many years. Rather than give you the entire document however, we've decided to give you a copy of the relevant parts. There were certain…umm… embarrassing pieces in the main document."
"Excuse me Professor, but are you talking about Harry's book?"
McGonagall eyed her student carefully then added dryly, "I see little escapes your notice, Miss Granger."
"Oh no, Professor. I only learned about it a few days ago from Ginny. She couldn't tell me much more than Harry had written something that looked important, but she couldn't understand it."
"Important may be an understatement Miss Granger. I've read his paper this weekend and, I must say, it's one of the most interesting things I've read in a long time. And it may very well play a pivotal role in our war against Voldemort. Be that as it may, I've taken the liberty of producing a copy on this scroll for you to read. You will be expected to attend dinner and a discussion of how to proceed with this information this evening in Professors Snape private quarters. There will be a number of teachers, including the Headmaster and Mr. Potter in attendance."
Hermione accepted the scroll and unrolled it. It seemed to be at least fifteen feet long. Briefly scanning the title and subsections she looked up in shock at Professor McGonagall, blurting out, "Harry did this!"
McGonagall favored her with a tight smile. "Quite, Miss Granger. Needless to say, I was as shocked by it as you are now. Now, unless you have something else you wish to discuss, you may get to your class."
Getting up, Hermione clutched her precious scroll and left the room.
Happy news from Remus and Tonks…
Harry's wait was a short one. Looking down one of the staircases, he saw Remus Lupin and Nymphadora Tonks climbing towards him. Remus looked up and grinned Harry, then rolled his eyes as Tonks started tugging on his arm to hurry him along. Harry smiled as he gave the password to the fat lady and held the door open for the two of them. Remus entered into the common room followed by Tonks with Harry trailing along behind.
Remus took up a position near the fireplace, still grinning. But before Harry could say a word, Tonks grabbed him and hugged him.
"Tonks…. air… breathe…" He tried to gasp. Tonks released him. He barely had a moment to take a breath and notice that she had tears streaming down her silent face when Remus grabbed him in another bone crushing hug.
"Remus… air… breathe…" This was getting repetitive he thought. Remus stepped back and placed an arm around Harry's shoulders. WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON HERE? He thought. Remus steered him over to the couch and sat next to him. Tonks took up position on the other side.
Harry looked back and forth between the two of them, puzzlement written all over his face. Finally Remus began to talk.
"Harry when you came to help me after the attack, you not only healed me, but you cured me as well."
"Well of course I cured you Remus. You were badly hurt and I couldn't let anything happen to you."
"No Harry, you don't understand. Listen to me closely. You healed my wounds, yes. But you also cured my Lycanthropy."
Harry sat back, astonished. How could that be? Is it possible? He's no longer a werewolf?
Tonks stepped in softly. "Harry, it was more than the phoenix's healing tears you gave that day. We think you must have somehow fused the healing power of the phoenix with your love for Remus. I don't know what you were thinking when you healed him, but we think that may have had something to do with it."
As Harry stared at Tonks, Remus touched his arm and asked, "Do you remember what you were thinking, Harry?"
Harry turned to look at the fire, frowning. What had he been thinking?
"Hogsmeade had been attacked by Dementors. I saw a little girl…she nearly died, Remus. I managed to save her. Then Fred showed up. He was yelling that you'd been injured and needed help. I went to Grimmauld Place and saw you lying there and I thought…I thought I just want it to stop."
"You wanted what to stop, Harry?" Remus asked quietly, noticing the silent tears falling down the boy's cheek.
"All the pain and suffering, my friends being hurt all the time. I saw you lying there and I wanted it to stop."
Putting his arm around Harry's shoulder, Remus pulled him in for a tight hug.
"You saved the girl, Harry," Tonks said, standing from the couch and moving to kneel between Remus and Harry. "But you also saved Remus. And not just from his injuries. As a werewolf, he wasn't able to hold a job. He had no means of supporting himself."
Lifting the boy's head up and wiping the tears from his cheeks, Remus smiled. "She's right, you know. As the only cured werewolf on record, I can now find employment. As grateful as I am for that, I'm more grateful because I can now legally marry."
"Marry?" Harry stammered. He looked down at Tonks. She smiled and held up her left hand. Spotting the ring on her finger, his eyes widened. "It's about time! Congratulations!" And with that, he launched himself at Tonks, bowling her over. As she shrieked in protest, Remus started laughing.
Picking himself up off the floor, Harry grinned at Tonks slyly. "Does this mean I get to call you 'Auntie'?
"If you do, you'll be The-Boy-Who-Learned-To-Regret-It!" She replied with a mock glare.
Harry turned to Remus and smiled. "I'm so happy for you."
Standing, Remus pulled him into another hug and said, "Harry, in a perfect world, your father or Sirius would have stood with me when I got married. Since that's not possible, I would be honored if you would stand with me when we're wed." Looking down into the upturned face of James and Lilly's son, he whispered, "First, you gave me Tonks. Then you gave me a way of sharing my life with her. Neither of us could enjoy that if you weren't with us."
"When?" Harry asked.
"Before Christmas," Remus replied.
Harry tightened his arms around the man briefly before stepping back. "I'd be honored Remus," he replied simply. Then he smirked.
"What?" Remus asked.
"Oh, I was just thinking. The last of the Marauder's getting married? Sirius must be howling with laughter. I bet mum's happy!" Feeling the locket warm, he reached up and touched it through his robe.
The three spent a pleasant time together. Tonks and Remus told him about their plans for the wedding, and who was invited. Harry showed them pictures of him and Ginny from the ball. Tonks teased him unmercifully, causing the boy to glow a rosy shade of red. Changing the subject, he told them about what Hermione had done to Draco Malfoy. He also explained the prank they'd pulled in the Great Hall, including how they'd pranked their own house to avoid suspicion. Grinning, Tonks shook her head over their creativeness, and Remus roared with laughter.
All too soon it was time for Harry to go to class. After exchanging promises to write, the three split up at the entrance hall.
Later at lunch, Harry told the others about being required to eat dinner at a special meeting that evening. All these late night meetings had eaten into his DA time, but fortunately Ron and the others had taken up the slack admirably. He also told them about Remus and Tonks getting married and how everyone was invited. The group looked stunned but very pleased when he told them that Remus had been cured of his Lycanthropy.
Harry felt a little uncomfortable at lunch because Hermione kept shooting him strange looks. He didn't know what her problem was, but he figured that sooner or later he'd hear about it from her.
Harry and Hermione, early afternoon…
Harry and Hermione were sitting out in one of the Quidditch stands. Hermione was watching Ron as he put the Gryffindor team through their paces. Harry was reading another old volume he'd had found in the library, getting a bit of fresh air and waiting for Ginny to finish her Care of Magical Creatures class.
Every so often, Hermione would give Harry one of those looks again and to be honest, it was beginning to get on Harry's nerves.
Might as well get this over with, he thought.
"'Mione?"
"Yes, Harry?"
"You've been giving me these funny looks ever since lunch. Do I have floppy ears or something? Or do you have something you want to say to me?"
Hermione turned to face Harry.
"Harry, Professor McGonagall called me into her office this morning. She gave me a copy of something you wrote…" Seeing his stricken look, she hurriedly added, "… Not the whole book Harry. Just the important part."
Harry gulped nervously and nodded.
"I'm just curious Harry. For six years now you and Ron have copied my notes, checked your homework with mine, even asked me for help with extra tutoring on occasion. When I started to read the scroll Professor McGonagall gave me, I realized that you didn't really need my help all those years Harry… did you?"
This wasn't what I expected. I thought she'd be upset that I had done something without her help.
"'Mione, ever since our first year, I've needed your help. In some ways, you and I are quite alike. We both grew up as muggles. I'll always need you, 'Mione. There's so much about our world I don't understand. Ron and Ginny are the lucky ones. None of this stuff is new to them. There are customs and traditions I have no clue about. Heck, I barely know what's in the muggle world. It's not easy when you spent the first ten years of your life in a cupboard." He sighed and looked down at his hands before continuing.
"The scroll that Professor McGonagall gave you is the result of over two months of reading and writing. You could have done it in a week without breaking a sweat. Honestly, I don't understand all the fuss. It was something I really wasn't planning on showing anyone anyway and I hate the fuss everyone is making about it. There's probably some huge mistake in there somewhere that will make the whole thing collapse…"
Hermione stopped him with a touch on his arm. He looked up at her.
"You're too hard on yourself. All right yes, I was a little hurt that you didn't ask for my help. But after six years of helping you do research, can you blame me? I was also surprised with the information you managed to put together. It's brilliant, Harry."
"You're not mad then?"
She rolled her eyes at him. "Of course I'm not mad. I always knew you were a powerful wizard. But it's nice to know my brother is also smart…when he wants to be." She grinned impishly before adding, "Almost as smart as me!"
At his mock scowl, Hermione leaned over and hugged him.
Hugging her back, Harry thought, did Hermione really just call me smart? And does this mean I can't check her transfiguration notes anymore?
"Oy, Potter! Get your hands off my girlfriend!"
Pushing Hermione's bushy brown hair out of the way, he saw Ron hovering not far from where they sat. As Hermione pulled away from him, Harry shouted "Ron, look out!"
Whipping around, Ron dodged a bludger and shook his fist at one of the Gryffindor beaters. Wave to Harry and Hermione, he raced back out to oversee the team.
Dinner with the Snapes…
As the meeting time approached, Harry began to dread it more and more. He had some time off before dinner, so he decided spend it in the Room of Requirement, dueling. After a short grueling session that included more than a few cutting hexes getting through his shields, he ran up to his dorm for a quick shower before heading back down to the dungeons.
When he reached the apartment, he glanced at his watch. Great, I'm late. This is all I need! Scowling, he knocked on the door and waited.
Glancing up when the door opened, he was met by a smiling Serena Snape. She welcomed him warmly and invited him in.
Harry walked into the room and stopped in surprise. The Snape's living room had been transformed; it was larger and seemed to be filled with people! Hermione rushed over to him and grabbed his arm.
"Harry, we've all been waiting for you. Come on!"
He allowed her to drag him towards a chair at the table. As people started to find chairs, he noticed the Headmaster seated at the head of the table. Serena sat next to Harry and Severus sat across from him. Hermione was on his other side. Professors McGonagall and Flitwick took the last two seats.
Harry felt a twinge of panic. Hermione, seeing the look in his eyes, reached under the table and gave his hand a quick squeeze for reassurance.
After Dumbledore issued his customary "tuck in", the table filled with food. Harry found himself unable to eat.. He could feel his panic rising and sweat beaded his brow. Hermione looked at him with concern, but it was Serena that helped him snap out of it.
Serena noticed that Harry was showing all the signs of an oncoming panic attack. She touched his arm and told him to use his meditative methods to center himself. Harry closed his eyes and concentrated on his phoenix song.
With the song running through he head, he managed to relax enough to enjoy the meal. He even managed to talk with Serena and Hermione, mostly about inconsequential stuff, much to Hermione's annoyance. She wanted to talk about his work, but he kept turning the topic. She couldn't make a fuss over it though. Not in front of the teachers.
After dinner ended and the table was cleared, the Headmaster coughed to draw everyone's attention. Dumbledore looked embarrassed, but began to speak to Harry.
"Harry, the only thing worse than a fool is an old fool. I've made many mistakes in regard to you, as so many people here tonight have been so kind to tell me. And I dare say some of the more pointed footprints on my behind may fade eventually." His eyes twinkled slightly at that, then he continued.
"I was wrong to interfere with your relationship Harry. I was wrong in thinking I knew what needed to be done better than you. In my zeal to see you prepared for what will come, I found myself not only trying to run your life, but preventing you from enjoying it. I'm sorry for the pain I've caused you. I can only pray you'll forgive this old fool enough to at least allow me to work with you again."
Everyone turned to look at Harry. Briefly, he considered throwing another fit, but even he had gotten tired of all the tension caused by his break with the Headmaster. He closed his eyes for a moment listening again to his calming song. Then he looked at the Headmaster and spoke in a neutral tone.
"Headmaster, we have a lot of issues to resolve between us. Perhaps someday we'll truly resolve them. But for now, I'm willing to work with you on this, so long as you treat me as a person and not just some tool. I'm tired of the fighting. We have an enemy that profits from it while we run around in circles, accomplishing nothing."
There was a collective sigh from all those present. It wasn't an offer of friendship, and it was conditional, but it was an offer to end the fighting. Dumbledore's eyes twinkled and he sat straighter in his seat. Nodding, he smiled at Harry.
"You've grown considerably in the past few months Harry and I am continually astounded by your capacity to reach out to others. Very well then, I accept your conditions. While the Ministry and others might not agree with me, from here on, I will treat you like what you are. A young but fully mature wizard.
"Now then, before we start talking about your work, let me assure you that Professors Flitwick and McGonagall and Miss Granger have only read a copy of the relevant portion of your notebook, not the entire book. So your other secrets are still safe…"
Harry leaned back in relief. He didn't want everyone in the room to see his doodles about Ginny. It was bad enough that some of the people here had seen them. Sitting back up, he turned to listen to what Dumbledore was saying.
"… astounded by what I had read Harry. The work is clearly one of the finest I have seen from a student here at Hogwarts. And its implications are nothing short of fascinating to our efforts. In order to simplify things however, I think it might be best if we break our efforts into pieces with several people handling each task. Harry do you have any ideas as to how we should proceed?"
Clearly this was more than a test of their ceasefire. It was his way of showing everyone that he meant what he said and intended to ask for Harry's input as an equal.
Harry thought it over carefully before speaking. "Sir, since Professor Snape is the only one here with a mark to test on, and I'm probably the only one capable of powering the crystals, I'd suggest that Professors Snape, you and I handle the practical aspects, while Professors Flitwick, McGonagall and Hermione check the theory behind it. I'm pretty sure its correct, but it wouldn't hurt to check."
Dumbledore nodded in agreement, but before he could speak, Professor Flitwick broke in excitedly.
"Harry, have you read Dorvis Masterson's work on crystal structures? It's considered the definitive guide in the field."
Harry nodded. "Yes sir, I have read that volume. The problem was he didn't take his ideas to the next step. He lacked the means to get beyond a single stage crystal. For example, the crystal we used the other night was a blending of Moonstone and blue Tourmaline. Masterson examined and defined the properties of individual gemstones. I found that, in order to get the precise level of control required, one needed to combine two or more stones."
McGonagall sat back in her chair with a broad smile on her face. This was a student from her house, after all. Meanwhile, Flitwick looked totally gob smacked.
Harry went on to explain what they had accomplished the other night, while Severus passed around the stone Harry had used. Harry offered to rerun the demonstration, but Dumbledore asked if there were any other modes of the bind that could be demonstrated without causing undue stress on either Severus or himself.
Harry thought for a moment, and then suggested that the awareness transfer might be suitable. It required a more complex crystal matrix, but it would allow Professor Snape to see through the eyes of anyone with the mark. Its range was limited, probably a kilometer or less. The crystal construct was more complex, because it would require three crystals. Harry pointed out that even if he made the matrix he needed, if there were no Dark Marks within a kilometer, nothing would happen.
Finally, he turned to Professor Snape and said, "Professor, this should be your decision. I don't think this will cause you any pain, but you're the one that will be doing the looking."
Severus looked over at his wife. Harry's ideas had worked so far. A second test would make the theory that much more sound in his mind. It was also one step closer to the removal of his accursed mark. As he caught Serena's eye, she smiled encouragingly.
Harry chuckled at his look and said, "Believe me Professor, I'm not trying to make you strip before all these people."
As the people around the table grinned, Severus turned to Dumbledore.
"Headmaster, I'd like to try this. If it works, it would be a second successful test of Harry's theories."
Dumbledore nodded in acceptance of Severus's remark. "Then by all means, let us try this. It will give everyone here first hand knowledge of Harry's abilities as well." Turning to Harry, he asked, "Do you need anything special to do this?"
"No sir, just a moment or two to prepare. It's a little tiring to make a three crystal structure."
Harry closed his eyes and placed his hands palm up on the table. He took a few cleansing breaths and started to focus. He needed a sunstone as a core, a fluorite and a green sapphire. Within moments, he was repeating the same process he'd used the other night.
Almost everyone at the table gasped. Both Severus and Serena, who'd watched the process once before, motioned them to be silent.
Harry had successfully fused the sunstone and fluorite together. With a flick of a finger, the stone moved out of the way. Concentrating, he created the sapphire and joined it to the stone as well. When it was complete, the glow from Harry's hands cut off and, opening his eyes, he caught the fused stone in his right hand.
He looked up as the table broke out in a confusing babble of voices, as everyone tried to speak to him at once. Harry looked around, feeling like the questions being hurled his way were physically hitting him. Finally, Dumbledore got everyone's attention.
"Harry, I must say that was most impressive. Judging from Professors Snape and their reaction, you did that in front of them the other day as well?"
"Yes Sir. Last time was easier however. The crystal needed was a simpler matrix."
McGonagall cut in. "Mr. Potter, I am surprised you have kept this hidden from us so long. I don't know whether to be pleased or disappointed with you…" seeing Harry flinch at that she softened her tone "Would you care to explain why you've been deliberately misleading everyone?"
"Professor, one of the best parts of last summer for me was when I worked for a new neighbor. He's an American, and used to be in the American muggle military. Part of one of their elite units, I guess. As it turned out, he's a squib. His father is a wizard, his mother a muggle. Anyway, over the summer and I had a chance to become close friends with him. He taught me many things about how muggles fight wars. One of the most important is something the muggles called 'operational security'. What that really means is, you hide your abilities from your enemies and your friends. If your enemy doesn't know what you can do, then you can surprise him. If your friends don't know what you can do, then they can't let your secrets slip out. I'm sorry if you don't like what I've been hiding from you Professor, but as my friend Jack says, if you want to win at war, you do whatever you have to do. Even if it means trusting very few people."
Professor McGonagall leaned back to considered that. "Very well, Mr. Potter. It's apparent you have your reasons and I can't find fault with your argument."
Professor Flitwick then piped up. "Harry, were you really conjuring those stones. It didn't look like it to me."
Harry always liked the little Charms Professor. Flitwick was one of the nicest teachers and he got along well with him. He leaned forward and turned to the diminutive Professor.
"Sir, I suppose the answer to that would be yes and no. I've found that I can't really conjured gems in sufficient size for what we need to do. So instead, I conjure small tiny fragments of the stones. You could say that, instead of conjuring them, I grow them. I know what I need and just keep conjuring the pieces and fusing them together until it's the right size."
Flitwick raised his eyebrows at Harry. "Indeed… hmmm"
Dumbledore rapped on the table. "Are we ready to proceed Harry? Severus?"
Severus stood and unbuttoned his shirt. Harry nudged Hermione, pointed at the bare-chested Professor and murmured, "Bet you never thought you would have seen that 'Mione,"
Severus sat back down in his chair and nodded to Harry. Serena touched Harry on his arm and gave him an encouraging look. Harry smiled, then turned and levitated the stone, rotating it until the sapphire pointed at Severus. Harry held out one hand. A bright beam of white light flashed out from his hand striking the stone. The stone started to pulsate as it continued to suck up energy. Finally, when the stone had all it could absorb, a pale yellow beam shot out from the stone striking Severus in the chest.
As the light struck him, Severus stiffened and his eyes closed. Harry continued to feed energy into the stone, his brow now beaded with sweat. The room was silent as the minutes passed. When the beam was cut off, Harry slumped in his chair and would have fallen had Serena not caught him. Severus relaxed, his eyes opened slowly.
"Merlin that was… unlike anything… It was like legilimency, yet different. I could see through the eyes of people… I was that person!"
Then it dawned on him what he was talking about. He breathed in sharply and looked at Dumbledore.
"Headmaster, we have three students with the Dark Mark here in the school!"
Everyone except Harry, Hermione and Serena sat up sharply at that moment. Serena and Hermione were helping Harry over to a couch were he could rest.
"Are you sure, Severus?"
"Yes Headmaster. I flashed through three people and was able to identify them."
"Who did you see, Severus?"
"Pansy Parkinson, Michael Corner and Marietta Edgecombe."
Dumbledore sat back thoughtfully for a long moment before speaking again.
"Professors, I suggest that we do nothing to alert these students for the moment. We will watch them carefully, but do nothing else until we've had time to evaluate the situation."
Hermione and Serena returned to the table.
"Ah Serena, how is Harry?"
"I think he'll be fine Headmaster. He overextended himself and is very tired, but I don't think he's going to suffer any ill effects. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if he were sleeping right now."
"Very well. Let's keep out voices down so as to not disturb him. This is the second successful test of his theory. Professors? Comments?"
Minerva McGonagall started. "Albus, he… that was the most incredible display of wandless magic I have ever seen. Merlin, the energy he expended! As to his research, I agree with Harry's idea. Filius, Hermione and myself are probably the best suited to examine the theory behind it. Unfortunately, I don't believe we have the ability to test any part of it."
Albus and Flitwick nodded in agreement
Folding his hands on the tabletop, Dumbledore said, "I quite agree with you Minerva. Harry and Severus are best suited on the practical side, with Serena and myself observing. We'll follow Harry's suggestion. As to how we approach this?
Severus, I know that you would dearly love to be rid of that mark however, I'm afraid I must ask you to be patient. We will remove that it, but right now you're the only willing participant we have that carries it.
Serena? One suggestion, if I may. Go over the details with Miss Granger and prepare everything in advance, should it become necessary to remove Severus's mark in an emergency."
Serena nodded in agreement.
It was decided that Severus and Harry would meet at least once a week to discuss the more practical side of this. Since Harry was already meeting with him to help him learn to control his power levels, Severus decided they could do both at those meetings. He chose not to mention the problem of Harry's power levels to the Headmaster, however.
The meeting broke up shortly afterwards. Professor McGonagall conjured a stretcher and levitated the sleeping Harry onto it. Then, with Hermione in tow, they left the apartment and headed for the Gryffindor tower.
Ginny was shocked when Professor McGonagall entered the common room with Harry on a stretcher, but Hermione explained the situation to her. Once Harry was in his bed, Ginny sat beside him and smoothed his hair while he slept. She stayed there until chased from the dorm by Ron.
Passing time…
As November slowly passed into December, Harry continued to work with Professors Snape, and occasionally Dumbledore, on advancing the more practical aspects of Harry's work. They had successfully manufactured all of the crystal structures they would need for the known functions, including the Dark Mark removal crystal. This was something Professor Snape now carried with him at all times.
Harry continued to work on controlling his power with Severus. It was slow going, as Harry still had to think about how much power to place behind each spell cast. Until Harry could feel, instinctually, how much power to use each time, Severus would not allow him to return to dueling in his Defense Against the Dark Arts class.
Harry's relationship with Dumbledore mellowed over time. While Harry was more willing to work with Dumbledore, he wasn't ready to trust him fully yet. The Headmaster had kept this word so far however, and treated Harry as an equal when it came to his research. The working relationship they had forged helped to ease the strain between them.
Harry continued to make his late night forays into the Room of Requirement to train at his own level. His evenings were spent with Ginny at the DA, or meeting Snape. The amount of time Harry had to be alone with Ginny was limited, and it was beginning to bother him. Sure, she was in her OWL year and swamped with work as well, but they needed some time alone.
One night near the end of November, he planned a little timeout for the both of them. Informing the DA that tomorrow would be a day off for all of them, he set his plan in motion. The DA was really shaping up and was working very well. Ron had worked wonders with them.
After Harry finished his late night training session, he transformed into Wings and flame traveled to the top of the girl's stairway. Stealthily, he crept into Ginny's dorm and left a letter floating above her head.
Ginny…
Ginny woke up slowly and groaned. She hated getting up this early. But today she was going to run with Harry. Sitting up, she hit something floating just over her head. Next to her pillow was a white lily. She snatched the letter out of the air and read.
Miss Ginevra Molly Weasley,Mr. Harry James Potter begs the honor of serving you a quiet dinner this evening in the Room of Requirement. He pledges his undying love to you and hopes you will join him for an evening of fine dining.
HP
PS. If you accept this offer, please wear the white lily when you come to breakfast.
When she went down to breakfast that morning, she entered the Great Hall smiling and wearing the white lily tucked behind her ear.
Harry and Ginny…
Harry was very nervous. He wanted everything to be just right. He had talked to Dobby earlier in the day and made special arrangements. Now, he found himself pacing back and forth in the transformed Room of Requirement.
He had set the room with a huge window overlooking an ocean somewhere. The room was intimately lit with a table in one corner. There was a couch in front of a fireplace, and a group of enchanted instruments in another corner.
There was a knock on the door and Harry jumped nervously to answer it. Ginny stepped in and her eyes widened as she noticed he was wearing the black and silver trimmed robes he had purchased in Gladrags at the last Hogsmeade visit. The robe had an identical cut to the one he'd worn at the Halloween Ball.
"Harry if I knew you were going to get dressed up…"
He placed a finger over her lips, saying, "Its not important Ginny. I wore this for you. Now, may I escort you to your table Miss Weasley?"
As she linked her arm through his, Harry cast a locking spell on the door, and then led her to a chair. Once she was seated, he sat down across from her, picked up a small bell from the table and rang it. With a pop, Dobby appeared.
"Harry Potter and his Miz Weezy! Dobby is glad to be seeing you again!" With that, Dobby snapped his fingers and the enchanted instruments began to play. He then handed them each a menu and waited while they made their selections. After a short wait, their meal was delivered and they spent a pleasant time enjoying each other's company.
They talked of silly stuff, school, gossip, what Ron had done lately, even planned their next prank. Finally full, they moved over to the couch and continued their conversation and let dinner settle.
After a short while, Harry stood up and gently grabbed her hand, and pulled her toward him. They moved behind the couch where there was more room and began to dance to the music.
Ginny looked up at Harry, her heart in her eyes. "Thank you, Harry."
Harry leaned down and kissed her gently on the lips before murmuring, "Anything for you, Gin."
Tired of dancing, they moved back to the couch and Harry talked openly for the first time about what he wanted after Hogwarts. Ginny learned that Harry wanted to teach at Hogwarts and that he hoped to have at least a couple children. He made it very plain that his plans were incredibly simple, reaching for all the things he was denied as he grew up. Finally, he looked at her shyly and told her that all of this was in her hands.
The look he gave her sent shivers down her spine. She leaned in to him and gently removed his glasses, putting them on an end table. Then she kissed him. As their passion deepened, she felt he was reaching the point where he was going to pull away.
Whispering in his ear she said, "Love, there are still things we can do without doing that."
He looked at her, puzzled. Gently, she guided his hands, letting him explore her. She showed him where to touch and how.
Harry's senses reeled; this was a totally new experience for him. Never had he experienced such exquisite sensations. Ginny writhed against him as he continued to explore her. When she went rigid, shuddered violently and cried out passionately, he wrapped his arms around her and held her tight.
Spent, she collapsed against him for a moment, breathing heavily while he continued to hold her. Eventually, Ginny reconnected to the here and now. Then she started to explore him in return. She started by opening his robe and softly kissing every newly exposed part. Once his robe was open, her hands drifted to his waist. Harry froze as her hand slide between clothing and skin and…he was lost, floating on a sea of sensation that ended with his own cries of passion.
Afterwards they lay entwined in each other's arms, some clothing on the floor, some still on their bodies. Ginny smiled inwardly. She knew that tonight had been a milestone in their relationship, one that Harry had resisted for a long while. Of course, it wasn't as far as Ginny wanted to go, but they had definitely crossed a line. She snuggled closer to Harry and he tightened his grip around her, one hand lazily playing with her hair.
Harry seemed to be mumbling something. That was what roused her from her comfortable state. She looked at him.
"Harry, what are you thinking about?"
Harry's face grew red and he said, "I'm sort of wondering if your parents would allow you to get married while you're still in school. Oh not this year, but maybe the end of the next one when I graduate."
Her eyes widened and she looked at him carefully to see if he was kidding. "Was that your idea of a proposal Mr. Potter?"
He grinned impishly at her and said, "Nope, I'm going to do this right. First I'll ask your parents for their blessing, then I'll ask you…" he suddenly turned all shy again "… that is, if that's what you'd like."
"Are you serious?"
"Very, Miss Weasley. Especially when it comes to you."
She tightened her grip on him and started to cry. Harry got concerned. "Ginny? I'm sorry! I didn't mean to make you cry. If that isn't want you want I…"
His words were cut off suddenly as Ginny kissed him fiercely. When she broke the kiss, she smiled at him. "I was crying because I was happy, silly. I've waited a long time for you, Mr. Potter. There's no way I'm letting you get away from me now."
A few days later, Azkaban Prison…
There were no walls at the wizard prison of Azkaban. The prison was on an island, unplottable, hidden from the muggle world. In days past the island prison had been guarded by Dementors. But with the rise of Voldemort, they had once again returned to his service. Now wizards guarded it; ten Aurors and over thirty civilian guards patrolled the facility. The only way to and from the island was by enchanted boat. Anti-Apparation wards covered the island and the surrounding sea for more than a mile beyond its shores. It was one of the bleakest, most uninhabitable places on earth. There was a small cluster of cellblocks, quarters for the human staff, a small cemetery and nothing more.
Auror Michael Wood was assigned to guard duty. It was boring work. The prison wasn't filled to capacity, but it had more than it's fair share of unsavory types, including eleven recently captured death eaters and all those still remaining from the last batch caught years ago. There were even a few muggles here.
Wood made his rounds routinely. This was boring duty that dulled the mind. He checked each cell, taking a head count. The non-Auror guards rarely ventured into the cellblock area. Prisoners were delivered their meals by house elves who were normally housed underground.
Checking the last cell, Auror Wood never even noticed the chill that crept into the air around him. An alarm sounded somewhere in the distance. He tried to run, but the corridor in front of him was full of Dementors, the corridor behind a dead end. With a soul-tearing scream he crumpled under the assault of multiple Dementors.
The long expected breakout of Azkaban had begun.
Lunch Time, Hogwarts…
Harry sat at the table with his friends; Ginny smiled mysteriously and kept one hand under the table, resting on his knee. Hermione suspected that something had changed between the two of them, but hadn't managed to pin Ginny down on it yet. She had every intention of getting the girl to talk tonight.
Harry suddenly stood up. His body trembling, the blood drained from his face. Serena looked up from the staff table and saw him.
Something's wrong. Something's happened, she thought.
Harry took a lurching step away from the table, stumbled and righted himself. Ginny, Ron and Hermione got up to follow him, looking worried.
"Harry?" Ginny asked.
Serena got up and darted over to Harry. Her departure alerted the rest of the teachers. Dumbledore looked over at Harry, stood up and moved towards him.
Harry took a few steps, his movements more sporadic. His hands whipped to his forehead, his back arched perilously and he pitched backwards with a scream. Blood spurted from between his fingers as he pressed them against his scar. Ron grabbed him, trying to keep him from banging into the table as he writhed in agony.
Serena dropped to her knees beside the boy. Noting the blood, she pulled his hand away from his forehead. His scar, pulsing a malevolent red, bled freely. As Ron continued to restrain him, she looked up at the Headmaster in anguish.
Hermione held a weeping Ginny, ignoring her own tears. Watching her friend suffering, holding the tormented girl close, she screamed, "Can't someone do something? He's in so much pain!"
As they looked helplessly at each other, Harry's body went limp. His face was ashen and his chest barely moved. Serena grabbed his wrist, checking for a pulse.
"Headmaster, we need to get him to the infirmary right away. And we need Severus there as well. He's pulse is very weak. We'll need some special potions made."
Dumbledore conjured a stretcher and levitated Harry onto it. Serena sent Ron to find Professor Snape while the rest of them escorted Harry to the infirmary.
Hogwarts Infirmary…
Harry shifted in bed, opened his eyes and blinked at his surroundings. Then he sighed loudly. This was becoming a most annoying habit! He fumbled for his glasses. Someone moved them into his hand and he put them on.
Ginny was sitting next to his bed. Professors Snape were standing behind her. Dumbledore stood at the foot of the bed, eyeing him with concern.
Harry grimaced and murmured, "I'm getting tired of waking up in the infirmary."
Professor Dumbledore spoke up. "You only have to stay one night, Harry. Madam Pomfrey wants to observe you tonight, to make sure the potions you've been giving are working properly. Now tell me. What did you see?"
Harry's temper flared. No 'How are you feeling Harry?' or 'I hope your feeling better Harry'. My entrails could come spilling out of my stomach and he wouldn't give a shit, so long as I told him what I saw before I died.
Ginny reached out to touch him. He leaned into her hand for a moment, drawing comfort from it and calming himself.
"I'm sorry Professor, but you're doing it again. You didn't even ask how I was feeling. You just wanted to know what your useful little tool saw."
Harry rolled on his side closed his eyes for a long time before he spoke again.
"Professor I saw nothing. I've been blocking his visions and attempted intrusions for months now. The only thing he's able to do is inflict pain. He does that when he's happy, or when he's killing someone. The pain is what started me down the path to the Protean. No one, other than my friends, seemed to be the slightest bit interested in the pain he causes me. So I started researching magic bonds, hoping to find a way of making the pain stop.
I'm sorry Professor. I shouldn't have snapped at you. But I'm just so very tired. I want to enjoy whatever time I have left to my life, Sir. Everything seems so out of control to me. My future is tied to a monster. My meeting with him is foretold and looms ahead closer than anyone realizes. I can't see what lies beyond that. I live today with a dream and I'm not sure if I'm even allowed that. As you pointed out to me once, 'it does not do to dwell on dreams…'"
Ginny moved to his bed and swept him into her arms, shooting Dumbledore a vicious look. As Harry drifted off to sleep, he mumbled, "Ginny is hope sir, she is my dream… for me"
Dumbledore sighed. "I'm sorry Miss Weasley. In my attempt to find out what had happened, I victimized him again. And I wronged you as well, Miss Weasley. He needs what you represent to him. When he reawakens, tell him I hope he is feeling better. Also please tell him that if I didn't think he had a chance, I myself would have taken him and gone to a place where Voldemort would not have been able to find him."
Ginny eyed him distrustfully, but nodded. At her nod, Dumbledore turned and walked away.
Serena sat down on the edge of the bed and watched the couple closely. Running a weary hand over her face, she sighed.
"I envy you Ginevra. He touches so many with his heart, and we are all better because of it. But I suspect this one will give his heart only once in his life and he has given it to you. He will sleep for a while more. When he awakes, make sure he eats something. He should be fine by morning."
Hermione, Harry, and Ginny...
Harry, Ginny and Ron sat at lunch the following day, pouring over a copy of the Daily Prophet.
Escape from Azkaban!
By Rita Skeeter
In a bold daytime attack, an estimated 200 Dementors and Death Eaters assaulted the island prison of Azkaban yesterday morning. More than forty guards were killed in the attack. And at least twenty imprisoned Death Eaters were set free along with other prisoners.
The Daily Prophet considers this the final straw of an ineffectual administration and calls for a vote of no confidence against Minister Fudge and his administration. Percy Weasley, Minister Fudge's executive assistant is quoted as saying, "The Minister cannot be held responsible for the breakout of a few convicts. There are people in charge of security at the prison and he had far more important duties to attend to."
The Prophet has learned that there will be a special meeting of the Wizengamot today to consider new proposals presented by Amelia Bones, director of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.
And what of the Boy-Who-Lived? He saved us once 16 years ago; he sits safely at Hogwarts ignoring the peril of the wizarding world. Shouldn't he help us as he did in the past? Rumor has it he is romantically involved with one Virginia Weasley, the youngest child of a minor ministry official, and too busy to save the lives of our world.
Harry frowned after reading the article. Blasted paper! It was bad enough seeing his own name in print, but why did they have to drag Ginny in as well?
Harry leaned over and banged his head against the table a few times in frustration.
Neville walked over to Harry and placed a hand on his shoulder. "No worries Harry. I've talked to our housemates. We'll screen your mail for you and get rid of the howlers and jinxed letters."
"Thanks Nev," Harry replied.
"Do you think Gryffindor would mind doing mine as well, Neville? Blasted paper!" Ginny said as she angrily tossed the Daily Prophet away.
"We'll take care of it, Ginny. Operation Post Office will be up and running for both of you by the end of the day. I'll let everyone know," Neville said, smiling in sympathy. Giving Harry's shoulder a squeeze, he left to pass the word to the rest of their house.
"I'm sorry about this luv," Harry said with a grimace. "It's one of the problems of loving the Bloody-Boy-Who-Lived-But-Can't-Keep-his-Name-Out-Of-The-Paper!"
Ginny frowned at that, replying dryly, "Ok, I can live with Operation Post Office, but don't you get in your head that I love the Boy-Who-Lived. If you do, I'll make you the Boy-Who-Sings-Soprano!"
Harry grinned at her. "Don't hurt the plumbing luv. I think someday you're going to want everything in working order."
Ginny grinned back and murmured, "You bloody better believe it, Mr. Potter."
Hermione appeared at the door of the Great Hall and she had 'that look'. She was a witch on a mission. Purposefully, she strode over to Harry and thrust two sheets of parchment under his nose.
"Harry, these two diagrams were also in your notebook. I had the Headmaster go through your book again, looking for anything that looked similar to what you put in your paper. Why didn't you include these two?"
Harry looked over the two diagrams as Ginny peered over his shoulder. By now, everyone knew that the teachers were working with the information in Harry's notebook and looking over his research.
Harry laid the two sheets onto the table. "Hermione, the first one is a five gem matrix. To be honest, I'm not sure I can make it. The second one looked interesting, but I couldn't see the use behind it. Basically, it would absorb the energy but do nothing with it."
Hermione looked thoughtful for a moment, then pointed to the second parchment. "Harry, think carefully. It will absorb the energy right?"
He nodded in agreement.
"Where will the energy go, Harry?"
"No where 'Mione. It'll just sit there."
"Harry! Think muggle for a moment. What does that sound like to you?"
Harry sat back thinking, then his eyes widened. "A battery? But how would we tap into it?"
Hermione looked smug and said primly. "You're not the only genius in this school Harry. I found a hex we can modify that will drain and channel the magic."
Harry moaned and said, "Why do I get the feeling you've been saving that one to bludgeon me with, 'Mione?"
Hermione took on an innocent air while Ginny giggled.
She once again drew his attention to the first parchment. "Harry, what was your intent with this?"
"It would have been a detector. Basically, it would have copied an echo of a mark and would have glowed in the presence of a mark. But its too complex 'Mione. Five stones? I'd collapse before I was done making the thing."
Hermione waved her hand at him, dismissing the complaint. "Harry you're thinking size and number of stones, but you've been making pretty large stones. What if you make this a lot smaller and use the Engorgio charm on it?"
Harry rocked back like he had been slapped and mumbled something.
Hermione pressed him "Harry? What was that?"
Harry looked sheepish. "I never thought of doing it that way."
Ginny snickered into her drink. Hermione shook her head and said "Oh Harry! That's a first year spell, remember?"
The Snape's private apartment…
A few days later, Harry met with Professors Snape, the Headmaster, and unsurprisingly this time, Hermione. This would probably be their last meeting until they returned from the Holiday break. They had completed making Hermione's battery and even a couple of the dark detectors. Those had been a problem. Harry had to make them very small. They were simply too complex to make at anything larger than the size of a pea. Once made however, they'd managed to enlarge them with the Engorgio.
Tonight's meeting was to review how far they had come and make plans so that should Severus need it, Harry would be able to get to him quickly enough to remove the mark. Harry was feeling a bit off tonight. He was a little pale and relieved that he didn't have to make any more crystals or charge up any more of Hermione's batteries. His scar had been burning fitfully all day and it was really wearing him down. Sighing, he turned back to what Hermione was saying.
"… Professor Flitwick and myself have successfully tested the channeling hex on one of the charged crystals Harry made last week. With the help of Professor Snape, we repeated the transference test without a problem. Professor McGonagall and Professor Flitwick seem to agree that we can get enough magic out of a charged crystal for several uses. They don't think there would be enough power however, to do something like attack the bond or remove it. I think they're right. We now have close to fifty of the detector crystals. Harry had been making them one at a time when I tried Replico on one just on a hunch. Replico greatly sped up the making of them. I'd suggest we get each crystal mounted into a piece of jewelry and distribute it among the Order members. These crystals don't need Harry to power them. They merely pulsate with a soft light in the presence of a Dark Mark…any Dark Mark. We've tested one secretly against two of the students with marks. As you get closer to the mark, the pulsation increases in speed until its nearly continuous…"
Dumbledore raised a hand, stopping Hermione. He looked at Harry with concern.
"Harry, are you all right? You look quite pale."
Harry looked around the table at the concerned eyes facing him.
"I think I'll be fine Sir. It's just my scar burning again. It's not as bad as it was the other week though. I think it's somehow tied into what he's doing. When he personally kills, the pain is unbearable. When he's very pleased with something, the pain is unbearable. When his minions are doing what he wants, its pretty much like now. Painful but not that bad." He stopped and rubbed his scar. The room was quiet as the people in it looked at the boy helplessly.
Finally, in a small voice that seemed so devoid of hope, he asked, "Sir, do you ever think I'll be able to spend a day with pain?"
Dumbledore looked thoughtful for a moment.
"Harry, I firmly believe there will come a time when you will not only experience many days without pain, but also many other things that have been denied to you for so long. But I think that's enough for us tonight. You obviously need some rest." He paused for a moment, eyes twinkling merrily, and then said, "Miss Granger can escort you back to your common room where, undoubtedly, Miss Weasley will be more than happy to help sooth your pain."
Harry nodded and, with Hermione in tow, they left the apartment after bidding everyone a goodnight.
Elsewhere in England, location unknown…
Lucius Malfoy stepped into the chamber. Behind him floated a body.
A voice came from the far end of the darkened chamber.
"Lucius… my servant, come forward. I trust you found your stay in Azkaban enjoyable. I am pleased to see you again."
Lucius walked closer. At the precisely correct point he dropped to his knees and kissed the hem of Voldemort's robe.
"Lucius, explain yourself. Why do you bring me this… thing?" Voldemort pointed at the body still floating behind Malfoy.
"My lord, this muggle is insane, but his insanity has a purpose; one that can be used. He lives for one purpose my lord. To kill Harry Potter."
"POTTER!" spat Voldemort. "Too long has he irritated me from a far. Do you really think this muggle can kill the boy, Lucius?"
"My lord, the muggle was put into Azkaban because he had beaten Potter severely, nearly killing him. I am certain that in the right time and the right place he will kill Potter. It will just be a matter of picking the time and place and getting the muggle there."
Voldemort laughed. It was an evil sound with no trace of mirth in it.
"Very well. We will try it your way Lucius. For your sake I hope it works. You have not displeased me. Send in Wormtail!"
Peter Pettigrew scurried forward and groveled in front of Voldemort.
"Wormtail, tell me, does Snape still live?"
"Our spies within the school report that Snape still lives my lord. They are unable to get close enough to deal with him. They also report he has taken a wife my Lord, who is the new Potions Mistress, while he teaches defense. Neither of them has left the castle since mid-summer."
"Your report is not pleasing to me Wormtail, but perhaps I can use some of it. Yes… it might be interesting to allow Mrs. Snape to watch her husband as his mind is driven into madness. I will consider this."
Pettigrew started to move back to his previous position.
"Oh Wormtail… your reward…Crucio!"
The screaming seemed to go on forever.
Alls fair in love and Prank Wars…
Remus Lupin was sitting in the living room at Grimmauld Place. Having gone over the daily correspondence for the Order, he now looked over the material that was addressed directly to him. There was more than usual, but that was to be expected. With little more than four days until his wedding to Nymphadora Tonks, there were a lot of details to arrange still.
One item caught his eye. Hmmm… Addressed to me as portfolio manager for one H. Potter? He thought. A mighty odd way of addressing a letter.
He opened the letter to find two parchments.
Mr. Potter,As a result of your foresighted investment in our establishment, we are pleased to enclose a copy of our yearly statement and a listing of funds that have now been deposited to your Gringots account.
Weasleys Wizarding Wheezes has turned out to be an outstanding success. We acknowledge that without your most generous support, this would not have been possible. We look forward to a long and profitable relationship, and pray this letter finds you in good health.
Fred and George WeasleyOwner and Owner of WWWPS. Good show on joining the family Harry! And if the rumors are true, you might even make it a more official relationship!
Hmmm ok seems fairly standard although a bit dry to be from the twins, considered Remus. Now lets look at how things have done for that investment.
Remus picked up the second parchment and started to scan it. His eyes widened when he saw Harry had seen a several hundred percent return at this point.
Suddenly, there was a bright flash of light. When his eyes cleared, Remus looked around carefully. Something was dangling and tickling his neck. Standing up, he looked in the mirror over the fireplace and saw that his ears had been transformed. He now wore a perfect set of Basset Hound ears.
Remus started to chuckle. Those Weasley boys! It should be fun to figure out how they did this. Shaking his head, he quickly discovered that was a mistake as first his right, then his left ear flopped forward, slapping him in the face.
Not good. If I can't get rid of these before the wedding…TONKS! Oh Merlin, she's due back soon! What's she going to say when she sees this? She's going to kill me…
After trying several counter spells, he gave up. Thankfully, the twin's pranks never lasted long. But if the ears weren't gone by his wedding day, he was going to hurt those boys!
Sitting back down, he looked over the letter once again. Hmmm…this gives me an idea. And it's just what they deserve!
Grabbing a blank piece of parchment, he started to write…
Hogwarts, breakfast time…
Harry and his friends were sitting around having breakfast and talking. Harry, Ron and Ginny were a little disappointed that Hermione couldn't spend Christmas at the Burrow with them. But she would see them for Remus's wedding, and they would arrange to meet in Diagon Alley before they had to return to Hogwarts.
As the morning Owls started coming in, Harry looked up in surprise as one of the Order owls dropped off a letter from Remus.
Wings
This is an official Marauder notice. In an
unsuspected and dastardly surprise attack, those red headed twins,
Carrot Top I and Carrot Top II, subjected Moony to a most unsavory
alteration. THIS IS WAR! TOTAL GLOBAL PRANK WAR!
Moony
PS. Tonks is interested in helping. Should we induct her as well?
Harry read the note from Remus, then passed it over to Ginny. She took the letter and read it as well. Her eyes took on a predatory gleam. Excusing herself, she sprinted over to the Ravenclaw table where Neville and Luna were sitting. She showed the note to Luna, who read it and turned to look at Harry, giving him an evil grin.
Harry grabbed a piece of parchment and scribbled a reply to Remus.
Moony my friend,Wings and his apprentices stand firm with the Marauders! We of the New Marauders are ready, willing and able to do our part to prank the enemy into oblivion! Take no prisoners! Keep a firm upper lip!
Wings and Company.
PS. Tonks needs a name!
Harry attached the letter to the Order owl and sent it on its way.
Grimmauld Place…
A very floppy eared Remus sat with a very floppy eared Tonks; waiting for an owl. Tonks felt sorry for Remus and thought she'd cheer him up by transforming her own ears to match his.
When the owl finally arrived, Remus quickly scanned the parchment before passing it to Tonks. While she was reading, he attached another letter to the owl and sent it out again.
Weasleys Wizarding Wheezes, Diagon Alley…
Fred Weasely was attending to a customer when George yelled at him.
"Oy Fred! We just got a letter from Remus. I wonder what the old fellow has to say that he couldn't floo us about?"
"Well open it George! We're not going to find out without opening it."
George opened the letter and two parchments fell out. Fred picked up the top parchment and, with George reading over his shoulder, scanned the contents.
Fred & George,As portfolio manager for Harry Potter, I admit to being most surprised and pleased with how well this particular investment has turned out. I can assure you that Mr. Potter is also pleased, and has no intention of terminating the relationship anytime in the foreseeable future.
In reply to your yearly statement, Mr. Potter has taken the liberty of hiring an accounting firm to explain it to him. You will find their detailed analysis on the attached parchment.
I do so look forward to seeing you both over the holidays.Remus Lupin.
George picked up the second parchment. As he read, his face paled. Seeing his brother's ashen appearance, Fred grabbed the edge of the parchment, leaned closer and read:
Gentlemen!Our good friend Remus Lupin explained what happened to him upon reading your yearly statement. We find your sneak attack to be admirable, if a bit primitive. Since Remus is a dear friend, family in fact, we have no choice but to consider your attempt at humor as a declaration of Prank War. You will be contacted when we are ready to accept your surrender. In the meantime, we suggest more care be given to whom you unknowingly prank.
Messrs Padfoot, Moony and Prongs of the Marauders and the New Marauders.
Fred and George looked at each other in consternation. Fred tried to drop the letter and couldn't. Neither could George. For a good ten minutes they tugged, tried tearing the letter in half, nothing seemed to work! Finally, Fred got his wand out and attempted to banish the letter. The parchment had other ideas. When the smoke cleared, George was surprised to find his twin covered from head to toe in a suit of armor and unable to move.
George sighed. This would be fun if they knew who to retaliate against.
Elsewhere in England, location unknown, last night before holiday…
Voldemort sat in his chamber with most of his servants gathered around him. Tonight was a special night. Tonight he would give the Snape's a yuletide gift they would long remember.
Voldemort cackled gleefully and activated his link to Severus' Dark Mark.
Gryffindor Private Apartment…
It was late, well past midnight when a loud banging woke Minerva McGonagall. Grumbling to herself and thinking it was probably nothing more than another sick first year student, she threw on a robe, hurried over to the door and flung it open.
She was shocked to see Serena standing there. Her normally well-composed features contorted with fear. Serena wrung her hands.
"Serena? What is it? What's wrong?"
"Harry. I need Harry, Minerva! Oh Merlin, please I hope its not too late."
"You go back down to your apartment Serena, I'll bring Harry down there…"
"Hurry Minerva, I don't know how much longer he can last…"
McGonagall nodded and hurried back into her apartment to use her private door to the common room. Hurrying up the stairs into the boy's dorm, she quickly located the correct room. Finding Harry's bed, she drew back the curtain. Harry was sleeping fitfully again tonight. What ever was happening, it was bleeding over to Harry through his scar. Before she could rouse him, his eyes snapped open.
"It's time, isn't it Professor?"
"Yes Mr. Potter. Professor Snape was here a moment ago; she says her husband is in great trouble. You must hurry."
Harry climbed out of his bed, pulled on a robe and some slippers, and then led Professor McGonagall from the Gryffindor tower. The pair hurried down to the dungeons where a worried Serena met them at the door and led them into the bedroom.
"I will go get the Headmaster," Minerva said.
"No need Minerva. I am here," said Dumbledore, walking into the bedroom.
Harry looked at Professor Snape. He lay on the bed, trembling but stiff as a board. The mark on his arm glowed a spiteful red. His eyes were rolled up in his head, only the whites were showing. His teeth were clenched tight and a trickle of blood flowed from his nose.
Serena pushed the removal crystal into Harry's arms, a look of desperation in her eyes. "Please Harry…"
Harry glanced at the Headmaster who nodded at him. Harry turned back to Serena. "It will be ok. I promise."
Harry walked around the bed and placed the crystal on Severus's chest. Holding both hands out over the crystal he closed his eyes and took a few calming breathes. He concentrated on the crystal, then opened his eyes and began.
Both of Harry's hands suddenly blazed with a dazzling white energy. The glow continued to increase in intensity as the crystal on Severus's torso rose up slowly to hover between Harry's hand Snape's chest. Once the blended diamond and emerald had reached the midpoint, the light blasted down into the crystal.
Unlike previous uses of the crystals, this time there was no charging period. The energy passed from the emerald facing Harry's hands to the diamond facing Severus. The beam that hit Severus wasn't a single color; it was a rainbow of colors. Harry gritted his teeth and increased the power flow to the crystal.
Suddenly, there was a flash of light traveling back up the crystal to Harry. In a second's time, Harry was covered in a blazing nimbus of white light. A similar flash traveled down to envelope Severus, only his color was that of an ever-changing rainbow.
Severus was suddenly released from his paralysis, his back arched and both he and Harry began to scream at the same time. The sound was awesome and yet it wasn't complete. As Harry continued to pour energy through the connection, another voice joined their chorus…
Elsewhere in England, location unknown…
Voldemort was enjoying himself. He was pouring power into his connection to Snape. Through it, he could feel an echo of the pain Severus was feeling.
His servants laughed as they watched their master torture and torment the spy.
Voldemort was concentrating on the connection, intent on making Snape suffer as much as possible, when a surge of coruscating power flooded up the link in his direction. He staggered to his feet screaming, his mind pounding within his head, and an intense burning on his arm.
Voldemort fought for control of the connection, but the power coming through was too great. Frantically, he tried breaking the link. He tried slamming his mental shield down tight, but they promptly collapsed under the onslaught.
His servants were of no help! They rushed forward, but were afraid to touch him. A few, a foolish few, fled the room. Most were simply frozen in shock.
He stood there wracked with pain, screaming. And he didn't scream alone. For two other voices were screaming with him. The more he tried to control the link; the more his arm burned; it was already smoking.
The sleeve of his robe bust into flame; he staggered a few steps under the pounding assault, and then the link collapsed, gone entirely. His eyes rolled up in his head and he pitched face down onto the hard stone floor. The chamber was finally silent again, except for the shuffling of feet from the uncertain Death Eaters.
Snapes Quarters…
Harry and Severus continued to scream as the power poured through the link. The crystal was spinning wildly now, faster and faster, throwing a rainbow of light about the room. The strange third voice vanished from the chorus of screams, the light surrounding Harry and Severus flared once more blinding the stunned onlookers. When their eyes adjusted again, Severus was silent on the bed with Harry lying over his legs, face down.
McGonagall leapt to help Harry while Serena went to check on Severus. Dumbledore helped McGonagall get Harry into a chair.
Serena looked up in surprise. "Headmaster, the mark is gone!"
Harry roused himself to mumble, "I hope so. I don't think I want to do that again."
As Severus started to come around, those in the room heard him murmur, "Did anyone get the number of the Hungarian Horntail that hit me?"
Author Notes:
I'll try to make this clearer. This is a collaborative effort between my wife and myself. If it weren't for her Serena wouldn't exist. Here's how we do this. I write the basic chapter, then pass it over to her. She proofs it and fleshes out places that need fleshing out. Sometimes I'm just a little too concise I'm afraid. So its both of us really writing this, not just me.
Now to address some issues raised by our wonderful reviewers.
Losing the book was about the only way you would have pried it out of Harry's hands. We made it clear that Harry was not about to give it to anyone or show it to anyone. If that's a cheap plot device, well you are reading a free fan fic. It doesn't get much cheaper than that.
Herbology owl missing. Well damn someone spotted that. I'd fire my editor but since I don't like sleeping on the couch I'll just say I'm sorry.
This story is not posted elsewhere. Believe it or not it's a work in progress. It helps that my wife is a touch typist and I can use ummm six fingers or so when typing. I'm not a touch typist but I'm spent over 30 years in front of computer keyboard at this time. AND YES, I'M THAT OLD! And if I don't take a potty break soon my dentures are going to float away!
I guess I should warn people, we plan for this fic to end shortly after the end of the sixth year. DumbledoresArmy will have a sequel however which will take it to a point past the final battle. Damn I'm talking about sequels already and I'm not finished with this one! Take note, if you're a Hollywood producer looking for scripts, we work as a team, but we're available.
Please remember and be patient with us. We're writing this story and posting the chapters as best we can. You won't always see a new chapter per day. We'll do our best, but no promises. And don't forget to tell your friends about this story!