**Sorry this took so long, but if one person complains about the length I'm
going to shoot them with my laser gun and feed their brain to my dog! This
chapter is double what I usually write, so no complaining. Got it, good.
Enjoy!
Chapter 19: More then you Bargained For
After Kairi's little prank, Harry and Ron had had to sit and endure several hours of their two very pissed off girlfriends yelling non stop at them. Which they thought was immensely unfair seeing how they had no control over what Kairi did or didn't do.
It had only ended when Ginny had suddenly stop yelling mid sentence a look of brilliance crossing her face before she went dashing out of the tower without another word.
When Ginny had reappeared twenty minutes later it was with a look of pure satisfaction on her face and an evil glint in her blue eyes. When Harry had asked where she had been she had simple said, 'You'll see.'
Which, once translate meant, "Kairi was one dead elf."
* * * *
"Potter you will remain after class." Professor Snape voice rang out over the student's ruckus in their haste to escape the dark dungeons as quickly as possible.
Harry looked up surprised, wondering what he possible could have done now.
"What did you do now?" Ron asked snickering. "Did you solidify another caldron?"
"Ha Ha Ron." Harry said not amused. "How should I know. Besides when does Snape ever need a reason for keeping me after class?"
"Good point." Ron said throwing his book into his bag. "Do you want us to wait for you?"
"No, go to lunch I'll catch up with you there." Harry said holstering his bag onto his shoulder. "I wouldn't want to see you die of starvation."
"Glad to see you're think of my stomach." Ron said picking up his bag and hopping down from his stool. "I'd wish you luck mate, but I don't think it'll do you any good."
"Probably not." Harry said smiling reassuringly at Hermione before making his way to Snape's desk. Where his presence was completely ignored until the classroom door shut noisily behind the last student.
"Mr. Potter." Snape said, not even bothering to look up form the parchment he was currently writing on while pulling out a medium size vial from one of his robe pockets. "See if your tiny Gryffindor brain can identify that potion."
Harry gave Snape a look that clearly asked, 'Have you gone mental?' and was on the verge of saying 'Shouldn't you know? You are the potion master.' But thought better of it.
"May I examine it?" Harry asked instead.
Snape gave a curt nod handing the potion to Harry.
Harry examined the vial carefully noticing the substance was unnaturally dark in color and very thick in density. Uncorking the bottle Harry gave it a brief sniff and nearly dropped the vial in surprise.
"Be Careful Potter!" Snape barked snatching the liquid from Harry's hand.
"Sorry sir." Harry said quickly, still staring at the vial, dumbfounded.
"Well Potter?" Snape asked impatiently.
"The potion texture and aroma strongly resembles that of Mesqiere's gift. Yet it's darker then any Mesquiere's gift I've ever seen and the smell is off." Harry finally said.
"Can you tell me precisely what ingredient smell is off?" Snape asked.
"The lilacs." Harry answered immediately. "They spell . . . over cooked."
"Indeed." Professor Snape said returning back to his writing.
Finally after sometime Professor Snape spoke again. "You are corrected Mr. Potter. This is Mesquiere's gift, or at least a by-product of it."
"What do you mean?" Harry asked confused.
"This Mr. Potter is Mesquiere's Jewel, or at least that is what it will be called once it is brought to the publics attention." Snape said setting the potion down in front of him.
"Professor?" Harry asked, still not quite understanding him.
"Mesquiere's Jewel. Discovered a week ago as the known cure for stages two and three of Retrospection." Snape said shortly.
Harry jaw dropped, as he was rendered completely speechless. Mid-evil wizards, witches, and great potion masters a-like, all across the world, have been trying to discover this cure for decades.
"You are probably wondering why I am sharing this information with you?" Snape said looking up when Harry didn't speak.
All Harry could do was nod.
"You see Potter, this" Snape said waving the vial in Harry's direction. "Is your potion that you so nicely baked four weeks ago before solidifying over in ice."
"What?!" Harry cried. Suddenly wondering if he wasn't trapped in some bizarre dream.
"My thoughts exactly Potter." Snape said. "I unthawed your potion that day only on the intent of giving you detention for the rest of your life for destroying perfectly good ingredients. So you can imagine my surprise when I found, that not only was your potion still Mesquiere's gift, it had also become quite potent. Thus, I have been spending the last four weeks braking down the formula and testing it out with some of the most brilliant minds known to medical history trying to discover it's potential."
"And?" Harry prompted when Snape didn't continue.
"After testing the potion for two weeks we received permission from a girl's family to administer Mesquiere's Jewel to their daughter. The young girl had been admitted to the hospital five months ago after an accident that caused her to slip into a coma. She had been diagnosed under stage two of Retrospection."
"And she recovered?" Harry asked.
"Yes. Three days after administering the potion the girl come out of her coma. Her memory and body functions undamaged." Snape said eyeing the vial of potion critically.
"Has there been any side effects?" Harry asked interested.
"No, not so far at least. But discovers like this takes time to study and test." Snape said returning to his writing. "Although we have caught the attention of the Ministry awfully quickly. Possible due to the fact that many families have been demanded that this potion be administer to their afflicted family members."
"This is incredible." Harry breathed.
"Yes, I'll agree with you there." Snape said looking at Harry. "It's a major achievement for the medical field. Which brings me to the other reason I asked you to stay behind. The Ministry is demanded that the inventor of this potion be brought forth and that Mr. Potter would be you."
"What?" Harry asked dumbly. "I did not invent this potion."
"As much as it kills me to admit Mr. Potter, you did in fact invent this potion." Snape said rolling up the piece of parchment he had been writing on. "So what time shall I inform the ministry you can meet with them?"
"Professor this is ludicrous! All I did was nuke a potion, almost getting murdered by my potion Professor in the process! The entire thing was a completely accident! Besides you're the one that did all the hard work and researched this potion for its capabilities. This potion rightfully belongs to you!"
"Accident or not Mr. Potter your name will be placed under inventor." Snape said leaving no room in his voice for argument. "Furthermore Potter you are the only living person capable of making this potion."
"Excuse me?" Harry asked blinking.
"Are you deaf as well as dumb?" Professor Snape asked. "I have tried many time to make this potion and have failed ever attempt. It seems that the potion can only be created with the use of lightening and ice. For some reason the friction and the heat that is caused by your lightening bolt is what is required to make it more potent, while the ice traps in the potency before it can be dissolved. No spell seems to be able to match the lightning's potential."
"How much more do they need?" Harry finally asked in defeat.
"Right now St. Mungo's has asked for twenty more vials immediately. Seeing how I am holding the last remaining vial. We have also had requests from France, German, and America's Ministries of Magic for at least ten vials apiece as soon as it comes available. So I'd say seven cauldrons full should satisfy people. For now." Professor Snape said.
"Professor between all my other after school activities, there is no way I will have time to produce this potion as fast as people need it." Harry said shaking his head. "There's just no way."
"Then people will simple have to wait until the famous Harry Potter has time to spare." Snape sneered at him.
Ignoring the usual rude remark Harry said, "I have a better idea."
"I'm listening." Snape said.
"We go into this as partners. You make the potion and I will make the required additions when the time comes. We share the credit equally." Harry said, truly believing his Professor deserved this recognition.
"What makes you think I'd want to do this for you?" Snape asked bluntly. "I have no interest in dealing with the Ministry or the Press over this discovery. My name next to yours is a sure way to get me involved. Besides Potter isn't dealing with the press your field of expertise?"
"Listen Professor." Harry said starting to get angry. "You're the one who did all the hard research and discovered that my potion was a cure for Retrospection. If it had been left up to me I would have dumped the whole thing down the drain without a second thought! So stop being a stubborn jackass and accept the credit you deserve!"
"Fifty points from Gryffindor for your lack of respected Mr. Potter." Snape said through gritted teeth. "And I would like to make it very clear to you Potter that I want as little to do with YOU and your name as possible! It's bad enough I have to see your old face three times a week, ten months out of the year! Now get out!"
"Fine!" Harry shouted. "Inform the hospitals and other Ministries of Magic that I will get their potion to them as soon as I find time in-between my classes, eating, sleeping and trying to keep one step ahead of Voldemort's assassination attempts on me! I will talk to Dumbledore myself with regards to our Ministry so don't trouble yourself." And with that Harry turned on his heels and stormed out of the classroom.
Once Harry reached the Great Hall he stood outside for a moment taking deep breaths, trying to calm down before entering.
"Harry?" A gentle voice asked.
Looking up Harry meet the kind blue eyes of the Headmaster. "Hello Professor."
"Is something wrong Harry?" Dumbledore asked in concerned.
Harry shook his head and sighed. "Nothing that you don't already know."
"Uh, I take it Professor Snape talked to you?" Dumbledore said in understanding.
"Yes." Harry said wearily. "I offered to share the credit with him since he was the one who really discover the cure. He told me he would rather work with Professor Lockhart."
"Did he now?" Dumbledore asked surprised.
"Well not in those exact words, but he might as well have." Harry said shaking his head sadly. "I just don't understand where all this hate for me is coming from."
"It's nothing personal." Dumbledore told Harry.
Harry gave Dumbledore a skeptical look, but shrug it off. "I'm not entirely sure when Professor, but I will get you the next batch of potion as soon I can. As for the Ministry, I guess I have to face them sooner of later."
"Harry don't worry about producing the potion right away, the need for it will still be there when you do find the time to make it." Dumbledore said smiling gentle at Harry. "As for the Ministry, I will talk with Arthur personally and see if we can't keep your name out of it for the time being."
Harry gave the Headmaster a relieve smile. "Thank you Professor."
"No problem my dear boy." Dumbledore said smiling at him. "I do believe your friends are waiting for you."
Harry nodded and turned to leave when Dumbledore voice stopped him.
"Harry I would like to talk to you and Sirius tonight at seven. Will you pass the passage onto Sirius for me?"
Harry turned to the Headmaster to tell him he would, only to find Dumbledore already gone. 'How does he do that?' Harry wondered as he entered the Great Hall.
"So what did Snape want?" Ron asked the minute Harry seated himself beside Ginny.
"I'll tell you later." Harry said filling his plate with food. He really didn't want anyone to over hear this particular conversation.
"You better." Ron said before turning his attention back to his plate while Hermione continued to give him a calculating look.
"Later Hermione." Harry said smiling at her.
Nodding reluctantly Hermione turned her attention back to her Transfiguration text and buried her noise in it once again.
"Rough day I take it." Ginny said, frowning as Harry started playing with his food.
"You have no idea." Harry sighed. "Hope your days going better?"
"Oh I thing it is." Ginny said an evil smirk crossing her face.
"Do I even want to know?" Harry asked.
"As a matter of fact you do." Ginny said reaching into her robe pocket and pulling out a piece of parchment. "I received a letter today from George and Fred and they have agreed to meet us in Hogsmeade tomorrow."
"What for?" Ron asked looking up confused.
"Oh, I just informed them that I had some willing volunteers to test out their newly developed products on. After I offered to buy the products and then test them out free of charge, let's just say they were more then willing to meet my terms." Ginny said smiling innocently.
"Look out Kairi." Harry said with a groan. "Whose idea was it to start a prank war anyway?"
"Yours." Ginny, Ron, and Hermione said simultaneously.
* * * * *
Finally the last class of the day arrived and all the students were eagerly talking about the first Hogsmeade visit tomorrow.
"How many students do you think will be staying behind this year?" Ron asked as he took his normal seat beside Hermione in Transfiguration.
"I don't know." Hermione said frowning. "Though by the looks of it I wouldn't say many. Most of them are talking like nothings change."
"Maybe the students aren't aware of the new permission slips that were sent out." Harry said thoughtfully.
"I'm sure we'll find out at the end of class." Hermione said reasonable. "Professor McGonagall is bound to mention something at the end of class."
"Most likely." Ron said before turning his attention to the front of the classroom as McGonagall entered and started class.
"Today class you will be transforming your chairs into animals." Professor McGonagall said. "So if you will all stand and place yourself behind your chairs I will pass around this goblet full of parchment. Take one and open it and on it you will find the required animal you are to use."
Five minutes later the class was all situated behind their chairs, each with a piece of parchment in their hands.
"Ok class I want you to do this in groups of three, one performing the spell while the others watch to make sure nothing seriously goes wrong." Professor McGonagall said. "I will be walking around checking on your progress. You may begin."
"Ladies first." Ron said smirking at Hermione.
Hermione just glared at Ron, before saying 'fine' and raising her arm and reciting the spell.
With a small pop Hermione's chair slowly started to get shorter until all that was left of it was a cute white rabbit.
Hermione looked up at Ron smugly.
"Excellent work Miss Granger." Professor McGonagall announced coming to stand beside the three teens. "Twenty point to Gryffindor."
"Thank you Professor." Hermione said beaming.
"Show off." Ron muttered under his breath only loud enough for Harry to hear.
"You know you could be a show off too if you'd bothered to do your homework properly." Harry muttered back.
"Now where would be the fun in that?" Ron asked.
"Jeez I don't know, maybe you would actually pass your classes with a respectable grade." Harry suggested.
Ron didn't get a chance to comment back as Hermione had already returned her chair back to normal and was impatiently waiting for one of them to take their turn.
"Fine I'll go." Ron said stepping forward and reciting the spell. Seconds later a gray dog appeared, well except for the fact it still had stool legs for its limbs.
Harry and Hermione trade looks before bursting out laughing.
"It's not funny." Ron snapped irritably.
"Yes it is." Harry said laughing.
"It would seem Mr. Weasley that you need to spend a little more time studying your text." Professor McGonagall said beside the red head.
"Yes Professor." Ron reluctantly grumbled.
"Don't worry to much Mr. Weasley, it seems you will have plenty of your years mate to keep you company." Professor McGonagall said shaking her head disapprovingly. "Change it back Mr. Weasley and continue."
After griping some more Ron returned his chair back to normal and sat down on it heavily. "Alright Harry lets see you do it."
Harry shrugged and pointed his wand at his chair and said, "transformo baby tigress."
A second later the three teens were staring at a beautiful white tiger that was laying on the floor curiously staring up at them through dull gray eyes.
"Wow Harry." Hermione breathed. Cautiously bending down and carefully picking up the little white tiger and inspecting it. "He's beautiful."
"That he is Miss Granger." Professor McGonagall's voice suddenly said making Harry jump and wonder if she was watching any group beside theirs.
"May I?" She asked extending her arms for the tiger. Hermione nodded and handed over the white fur ball.
"Twenty five points to Gryffindor Mr. Potter and I compliment you on your admirable work." Professor McGonagall said after thoroughly examined the male tiger and handed it back to Harry with a smile.
"Thanks." Harry muttered embarrassed.
Professor McGonagall nodded before walking away to see what Dean, Seamus, and Neville were up to.
Once gone the girls instantly crowded around Harry trying to get a better look at the tiger.
"He's so adorable!" Patil said reaching a hand out to pet it.
"Can I hold it?" Another girl Harry didn't know asked.
"Er . . ." Harry said, but was luckily saved from answering.
"Class!" Professor McGonagall shouted. "Go back to your groups and leave Mr. Potter alone."
Very reluctantly the group of girls dispersed leaving behind a very relieved Harry.
"Man if that's all it would have took to get a girl I would have done my homework ages ago." Ron said, before suddenly remember Hermione was there. "That is . . . I mean, before I got smart and realized I already had a perfect girl right in front of me."
"Smooth Ron." Harry said rolling his eyes at his friend, wondering if he was ever going to learn to keep his mouth shut.
"You better get your chair change back." Ron said, hastily trying to change the subject as Hermione continued to glare at him.
"Must I?" Harry asked looking at the tiger that was contently resting in his arms.
"Harry he's not real." Hermione said. "He has no essence of life in him."
"I know." Harry said looking up at Hermione. Thus failing to notice that the little white tiger had found something interesting to play with.
"Harry . . ." Ron tried to warn his friend of the danger, though is came a little too late. The tiger's paws was now firmly grasping Harry's silver necklace that had come loose of his robes.
A flash of white light blinded the three teens seconds later, before Harry suddenly found himself laying flat on his back on the floor, while the little white tiger laid sprawled next to him dazed.
"Mr. Potter are you alright?" Professor McGonagall stern voice asked somewhere above him.
"I think so." Harry said slowly sitting up. Though a moment later when an eager male voice entered his head he wasn't quite sure anymore.
"That was so cool! Can I do that again?"
Harry looked down at the tiger wide eyed and stunned, only his quick reflexes stopping the tiger from grabbing his necklace again.
"Sweat Merlin!" Harry whispered in utter shock as he stared into the now lively sapphire eyes of the tiger.
"What happened?" Professor McGonagall demanded after perceiving that no one was hurt.
"I don't know." Harry said quickly, tearing his eyes away from the vivid blue ones and attempting to ignore the whining voice in his head.
"Oh come on! Let me just touch it one more time! I promise I won't hurt it!"
"Mr. Potter I suggest you tell me the truth!" Professor McGonagall said giving Harry a menacing look.
"Well you see." Ron jumped in quickly, "The tiger was playing and went for Harry's Nec . . . " But Ron suddenly trailed off as he caught sight of both Hermione's and Harry's warning looks.
McGonagall gave each of them a questioning look before comprehension suddenly dawned in her eyes.
"Mr. Potter I would like to see you my office." Professor McGonagall said in a calm voice. "The rest of you finish up and I will be back in a few moment to give you the new instructions concerning this weekends Hogsmeade visit. Miss Granger you're in charge."
With that the Professor swept out of the room motioning for Harry to bring the tiger and follow. Once seated in her office Harry explained what happened.
"What did the necklace's power do to the tiger?" Professor McGonagall asked after he was done.
"I'm not entirely sure." Harry said looking at the tiger that was now trying to escape his hold. "It seems to be alive now. Like it miraculously received a . . . a . . ."
"A soul?" McGonagall asked in astonishment.
"Yes!" Harry cried. "But I don't understand how? Yet I know it's true because I can now hear his voice inside my head, but the strangest thing is his eyes."
"What about them?" Professor McGonagall asked.
"When I first transfigured the tiger they were a dull gray color, but now their blue and so full of life. I don't understand?"
"Neither do I Mr. Potter." Professor McGonagall said. "Would you mind if I took him up to see the Headmaster after class?"
Harry shook his head. "No, I have to meet him tonight anyway."
"Good I'll inform him of the situation and then you can talk to him about it tonight." Professor McGonagall said. Then she suddenly looked over her spectacles at Harry. "It would seem Harry that you are still full of surprises. First potions and now this?"
Harry groaned. "I wish I could get through one year just being normal."
To Harry's surprise, McGonagall chuckled. "Harry we can never be anything but who we are. And that my boy is not normal for you."
Harry smiled slightly at his Professor. "I guess that means I can never be normal."
"No Harry you can't." Professor McGonagall said retrieving the tiger from Harry's arms and placing it in a cage she had just transfigured. "Come Harry, let's get back to class."
Harry nodded and stood to leave, but not before silently telling the tiger to behave, which surprised the little fur ball into tripping over its own feet and ending up on it's face.
"You speak my language!" The tiger cried in surprise after recovering from its tumble.
"Look we'll talk later, just behave." Harry said leaving the office with the tigers promise to behave.
Once back in the classroom Harry found a seat while shaking his head at his two friends silently telling them he would talk to them later. Nodding their heads in understanding they turned their attention back to Professor McGonagall.
"As you all undoubtedly know, a Hogsmeade visit as been scheduled for this weekend. Though what you may not know is that new rules have been set in place for your protection." Professor McGonagall said catching the attention of ever student. "First off, new permission slips were sent out to your parents or guardians over the summer warning them of the new dangers. Only those who are on the list posted outside this classroom or in your common rooms will be permitted to go to Hogsmeade this year. So make sure you look over the list carefully, anyone caught in Hogsmeade without permission will face immediate expulsion, no excuse." Professor McGonagall said, stopping to make sure every student understood. "If you do not find your name on the list it will only be a waste of my time and yours complaining to me or any other teacher. So unless you want detention for a mouth I would not approach a teacher about unsigned permission slips. Is that understood? Good. Class dismissed."
At her dismissal most students scrambled out of their seats and raced out the door to see the list. Harry, Ron, and Hermione hung back in the classroom to talk.
"So what happened to the tiger?" Hermione asked straight away.
"He's in Professor McGonagall's office." Harry told her. "She's going to bring him to Professor Dumbledore and explain what happened."
"Very reasonable." Hermione said nodding hear head in approve.
"Good old Dumbledore." Ron said. "Don't know what we'd do without him."
"Probable have I more peaceful life." Harry said as he and his two friends exited the classroom.
"Hermione what are you doing?" Ron asked as Hermione separated from them to go read the list. "You already know your names on there."
"I am just double checking." Hermione said defensively. "You never know if our slips got lost on the way."
"Right." Ron said rolling his eyes. "Come on Harry lets go drop are stuff off in the lair and head down to dinner, I'm starving."
Harry was about to answer Ron when Hermione voice interrupted them. "Harry your names not on here."
"What?" Harry asked, immediately echoed by Ron who franticly ran up to look for himself.
"She's right." Ron said turning back to face Harry. "I thought you said Sirius was going to sign yours."
"He was suppose to." Harry said. "Look I'm going to go find him. Why don't you guys go meet up with Ginny, grab some food from the kitchen and meet me in the Lair where I'll then explain everything that's happen to me today.
"All right." Hermione said quickly grabbing Ron's arm and leading him away before he could protest.
Smiling Harry headed off in the opposite direction arriving five minutes later in Sirius and Remus apartment. Remus hunched over some papers and Sirius nowhere in sight.
"Hey Harry." Remus said looking up from his work.
"Hey Remus. Is Sirius around?" Harry asked coming to stand beside Remus's chair.
"Yes I am, why?" Sirius asked coming out of a side room.
"Because I believe you have something that belongs to me." Harry said glaring at his Godfather accusingly.
"Whatever do you mean?" Sirius asked.
"The Hogsmeade slip you promise to sign." Harry said patiently.
"Oh, you mean this?" Sirius asked pulling out a piece of parchment and holding it in the air.
"Yes!" Harry cried, immediately grabbing for it only to have it yanked out of his reach.
"Sirius." Harry growled dangerously.
"What?" Sirius asked innocently. "You want this?"
"Sirius hand over the parchment and I will kindly let you walk away from this unharmed." Harry said, only half joking.
"Is that a threat?" Sirius asked in mock indignation.
In one swift movement Harry had crouched down and performed a quick leg sweep, catching his Godfather by the ankles and sending him crashing to the floor flat on his back, while firmly placed one of his knees on Sirius's chest pinning him to the ground.
"No Sirius, that was a promise." Harry said snatching the parchment out of Sirius's stun hands.
"Thanks." Harry said smirking. Quickly getting off of Sirius and retreating to the door. "Oh by the way Dumbledore wants to see us at seven tonight." Harry yelled over his shoulder before exiting the room.
"Ok what just happened?" Sirius asked sitting up and rubbing his back.
"Padfoot I believe you have just met your match." Remus said laughing. "Harry Potter one Sirius Black zero."
"Well we can't have that now can we?" Sirius said, an evil smirk spreading across his face. "A Potter will never be better then a Black."
Remus groaned.
After leaving Sirius and Remus quarters Harry made a quick stop in Demin's where Delia immediately pounced on him upon entering.
"Harry! What are you doing here? Did you come to see me?" Delia asked releasing Harry and staring up at him.
"As a matter of fact I have come to see you." Harry said smiling at Delia. "How have your lessons been coming with Madam Phomary?"
"Great! I've already shifted up three levels since I've been here and Madam Pomphry has even let me heal some of the minor injuries on the students! It was fun!" Delia said ecstatically. "Why?"
"Just wanted to make sure you can treat your father's heartache after your first flying lesson tomorrow." Harry said grinning at Delia.
"You mean it?!" Delia said hugging Harry tightly. "I'm really going flying tomorrow?!"
Harry was about to answer when a noise behind him startled him. Turning around he found Demin standing in the open doorway mouth set in grim line, while glass shards lay shattered at his feet.
"I gather you heard." Harry said giving Demin a smile.
"Daddy Harry's taking me flying tomorrow!" Delia said running to her father. "Are you going to come and watch. Harry says if you have a heartache I'll be able to heal you since I've been training so hard with Madam Pomphry, so don't worry."
"Well wasn't that nice of Harry." Demin said sarcastically, repairing the broken glass.
"Demin don't worry so much." Harry said. "She won't even be on her own broom. She'll be riding with me until she gets the feel of it."
"That's suppose to make me feel better?" Demin asked crossing the room and seating on the couch.
"Demin you're going to be there and so are Sirius, Remus, Kairi and my friends. She'll be fine." Harry said. "If it will make you feel any better I'll get you a broom to ride."
"Actually I'd like that." Demin said perking up. "I've seen teams out on the field practicing and it looks like fun."
"All right I'll borrow one for you. Harry said laughing at Demin's swift turn of mood "So I'll see you tomorrow at three on the field. I've got it for two hours seeing how I've giving the Gryffindor team today and tomorrow off before our first game."
"Thank you Harry!" Delia squealed hugging Harry again. "I'm going to go find Aunt Kairi and tell her!" Delia said before dashing out of the room.
"I'll see you later Demin." Harry said shaking his head and heading for the door.
"Harry thanks." Demin's voice said stopping Harry in the doorway.
"For what?" Harry asked looking over his shoulder at Demin.
"For being Delia's brother." Demin said turning to look at Harry.
"Believe me when I tell you it's been my pleasure." Harry said smiling at Demin before disappearing.
* * * * * *
Harry spent what little time he had after visiting Sirius and Demin explaining to his friends about the potion he had created and then filling Ginny in on the transfigured tiger.
To say his friends were more then a little overwhelmed would have been an understatement. Harry thought Hermione was never going to stop asking questions.
Finally Harry had to leave to meet Dumbledore leaving his friends to their homework.
Once out in the halls Harry sent out a silent call to his animal companies.
"Elle, Destiny can you please meet me outside the headmasters office?" Harry asked them.
"Of course Kiosk." Elle voice immediately answered him.
"I will be their as well young master." Destiny's voice said seconds later.
"Thank you." Harry said ducking through a secret passage and arriving minutes later outside the Headmasters office. Only to find his two friends already there and waiting for him.
Harry blinked in surprise. "What did you do, Apparite here?"
"No, Destiny used her magic to get us here." Elle said jumped into Harry's arms. "Is there something wrong?"
"No, I least I don't think so." Harry said reaching out to stroke his phoenix. "There's just somebody I'd like you to meet."
He's friends expressed their understanding as Harry gave the password and ascended the stairs. Once at the top he knocked and was granted entrance immediately.
The first thing Harry noticed when he entered was that his Godfather was already there sitting on the floor with a piece of string dangling from his fingers as a hyperactive tiger tried to grab hold of it.
"Hello Harry." Dumbledore said from his potion behind his desk watching Sirius. "It would seem that you will never cease to amaze me."
"I'll say." Sirius said looking up out at his Godson. "Why didn't you tell me about your new friends here?"
"Jeez I don't know, maybe because I was a little annoyed with you the last time I saw you." Harry said sarcastically. "Besides I wasn't entirely sure he'd still be here."
"Oh he's not going anywhere." Dumbledore said. "It would seem he as indeed acquired the needed essence to live."
"Mind telling me how?" Harry asked sitting across from his Godfather.
"Now that's the most interesting part." Dumbledore said eyes twinkling. "It would seem that when your young tiger here touched your necklace a spark of your magic was given unconsciously, yet willingly, to the young cub, consequently giving him life."
"What do you mean willingly?" Harry asked continuing to watch his Godfather tease the tiger.
"Meaning that somewhere in your subconscious Harry you wanted to give this tiger life. So when it connected with your necklace the power that still residing in it granted that wish for you." Dumbledore explained.
"That's the reason I can talk to it." Harry said comprehension dawn on him. "Because it was a part of my magic that gave it life, it has nothing to do with him being magical."
"Well you are right on one account." Dumbledore said beaming at Harry. "You can hear him because he is essentially a part of you, yet I don't believe he is just any ordinary tiger."
"Meaning?" Harry asked not really wanting to know the answer.
"Meaning young Harry that your cub my have well been given some of your powers." Dumbledore said smiling.
"Please tell me your kidding." Harry groaned.
"I'm afraid not." Dumbledore said chuckling. "It seems I must add yet another unusually pet to me exception list under your name."
"If my vote counts for anything, which it should since I'm really not a cat person, I like him." Sirius said scratching the tiger under the chin as Harry mumble "It doesn't."
"So what are you going to name him?" Sirius asked ignoring Harry's remark.
"How about Padfoot Jr.?" Harry asked innocently.
"Do it and you're dead." Sirius said given his Godson a death glare.
"You're right, we wouldn't want to insult the tiger." Harry said smirking. "Why don't you name him?"
"Me?" Sirius asked surprise. "Whatever for?"
"Because Sirius he likes you." Harry said with a shrug. "Merlin knows why."
"Must be my natural charm." Sirius said grinning at Harry who rolled his eyes.
"How about Cobalt?" Sirius finally asked.
"Cobalt. For his eyes." Harry asked more as a statement. "I like it."
"Me too." Sirius said grinning. "Cobalt it is."
"Good." Harry said introducing Elle and Destiny to Cobalt.
"So Albus, what other reason did you want to see us?" Sirius asked getting to his feet and dragging Harry with him.
"Uh that." Dumbledore said suddenly turning solemn, "Please have a seat."
"That bad uh?" Sirius asked slouching down in a chair.
"It all depends." Dumbledore said giving them both searching looks. "It would seem that Draco Malfoy is ready to return to school."
For a moment there was complete silence except for the telepathic voices inside Harry's head that he had tuned out the moment Dumbledore spoke Draco's name.
Finally Sirius spoke. "So soon?"
"According to his mother and Professor Snape he has made fast progress and is ready to come back." Dumbledore said sincerely. "I too have visited him and believe he is ready to rejoin the student body."
"It seems to me that you have already made your decision." Sirius said a little agitated. "So why are you involving us again?"
"Because I believe you and Harry should have the finally decision in this." Dumbledore said.
"Why?" Harry asked immediately.
"For several reasons Harry." Dumbledore said giving Harry a piercing look. "But the most important being I trust and respect your judgement."
"Well I'll tell you right now that I'm not thrilled with the idea." Sirius said grimly. "Nevertheless, if YOU believe he his ready to return then I see no reason to stop you. However, if he comes within five feet of Harry I'm not guarantee that he won't end up in the hospital wing."
"I wouldn't except any less." Dumbledore said smiling slightly at Sirius. "Harry?"
Harry looked at Dumbledore pensively for a moment before finally saying. "As long as he keeps his distance from my family, I don't see a problem either."
"Good." Dumbledore said. "I will inform the respective parties that Draco may return on Monday."
"Is that all you needed?" Harry asked wearily. "I've got some homework that needs finishing."
"Of course Harry." Dumbledore said dismissing him with a smile.
Harry nodded thankfully and stood from his chair only to have his Cubcat jump into his arms. "Kiosk I refuse to be friends with that . . . that . . . thing! He's ill-mannered and completely half-witted!"
"Oh come on I'm not that bad!" the tiger said defensively. "I just wanted to see how far her tail could stretch!"
"How would you like me to pull on your tail you impolite little ingrate!" Elle shouted back hissing angrily.
Harry looked from one cat to the other in total bewilderment, before turning to his Phoenix.
"Don't look at me." Destiny informed Harry. "They are both being utterly childish."
"I'm not being childish!" Both cats yelled simultaneously.
"See what I mean." Destiny said.
"I swear Kiosk, if you make me live with that monster he will be dead by morning!" Elle proclaimed.
"Like to see you try." Cobalt stupidly challenged back.
Before Harry had time to even blink Elle had jumped from his arms at Cobalt, sending them both spiraling across the floor.
"Elle stop it!" Harry cried in alarm.
Elle surprisingly just ignored him as she crouched down in a defensive position across from Cobalt growling dangerously.
"Does the little girl want to play?" Cobalt taunted. "Give me your best shot."
Which was exactly what Elle did.
Cobalt didn't even see it coming as the electrical shock hit him in the chest sending him flying across the room where he luckily landed on the couch.
"Elle! Cobalt!" Harry cried. "Stop it!"
Cobalt who had been slightly fazed by the attack didn't waste much time getting back on his feet and taunting Elle again. Both right out ignoring Harry.
"That was pretty good for a girl, but why don't you try this out." Cobalt said as a fireball shot directly out of his mouth straight at Elle, who dodged it easily.
"I guess I was right in assuming that Cobalt had obtained some of your magic." Dumbledore's amuse voice broke in.
Harry turned and glared at the Headmaster.
"So what are they fighting about exactly?" Sirius cut in before Harry could open his mouth.
"Territorial dispute." Harry said gritting his teeth as Cobalt took another trip across the room curtsy of Elle.
"Interesting." Sirius said. "Any bets on the winner?"
Harry shook his head in disbelief. "No, because I'm putting a stop to this before someone gets hurt."
Without further delay Harry froze both culprits in mid attack, flicking his wrist to disperse their spells before picking them both of up.
"Congratulation Sirius you have a new pet." Harry said dumping Cobalt into his lap. "And now if you'll excuse me I have other things to do besides baby-sit."
"Harry you can't leave him with me!" Sirius cried in dismay.
"Why ever not?" Harry asked. "He seems to like you and you said you liked him, so I don't see the problem. Besides you both seem to have the same personality, rude and unmanageable."
And with that Harry was gone, leaving behind one very amused Headmaster and one slightly stun, but delighted Godfather.
* * * * *
After Harry had reassured Elle that Cobalt wasn't going to take her territory, she calm down considerable and apologized for her behave. Later Harry had gone to check on Cobalt, only to find that both Sirius and Remus was adapting quite well to their new house mate. Probably do to the fact he is a born troublemaker.
Then he had mistakenly told his friends that Draco was returning on Monday causing Ron to blow a fuse. He had ranted and raved for hours, right up until it was time to attend dueling class, where he had then promptly took at his frustration on poor Dean who had happened to partner him that night.
Tomorrow just couldn't come soon enough for Harry.
* * * * * * *
"Hey Ginny, Harry over here." A voice called out.
Harry and Ginny both turned to find Fred and George sitting at a far corner table in the Three Broom Sticks waving at them.
"About time you got here." Fred said once the two had seated themselves.
"Sorry." Ginny said. "Hermione and Ron got into a fight on the way here and it took awhile to convince them to calm down, then even more time to persuade them to go talk somewhere private. They said they'll meet us here when they're ready."
George snickered. "So are we going to take bets on how long their relationship is going to last?"
"A lot longer then any of yours." Ginny said smacking her brother.
"And why dear sister would prospers businessmen, like ourselves, want to find spouses who would do nothing but spend our hard earned fortune?"
Ginny snorted. "The way this families going the only grandchildren our parents are ever going to have will be mine."
"What?" Fred asked stunned. "You're pregnant?"
"Congratulation Harry." George said shaking Harry's hand. "You're going to be a father."
"That is not what I meant!" Ginny said.
"Besides if she is, it's not mine." Harry said shaking his head in amusement.
"Ginny how could you cheat on Harry." George reprimanded. "You know for a fact that the only bother-in-law any of us will ever except is Harry."
"Jeez, I'm honored." Harry said. "To think I'm stuck with Ginny whether I like it or not. Well that, or spend the rest of my life being hunted by seven Weasley men intent on killing me."
"So true." George said while Fred nodded beside him.
"I truly feel sorry for you mate." Fred added. "Ginny is not the easiest person to get along with."
"You're telling me." Harry said. "Ow!"
"Would you three shut up." Ginny said. "I did not cheat on Harry and I'm not pregnant. I simple meant then none of you boys seem to be able to find a girl stupid enough to marry you."
"Wait until I tell Hermione you called her stupid." Harry said laughing.
"Would you guys stop twisting my words around!" Ginny said "Besides I yet to see a ring on either Hermione or my finger."
"And there better not be for at least another five years." Fred said only half joking.
"Well there goes your Christmas present." Harry said.
"Urg!" Ginny growled in frustration. "Would you two just show us the products you brought with you?"
"But of course." Fred said bringing a box about a foot in length and six inches wide out of a bag sitting beside him and opening it.
"As you can see there is instructions next to each item. Read and do as it says and you will have one brilliant prank set into motion." Fred said closing the box and handing it to Ginny. "Though we want a full report on the results of each."
"Most diffidently." George said. "So are you going to tell us who your unfortunate victims are?"
"Let's see, there's are new DADA teacher." Harry said laughing at the horrified looks on the twin's faces.
"You want these to prank a teacher?" George asked stunned.
"Not just any teacher." Ginny said mischievously. "This teacher just happen to have messed with some of my property and now she must pay."
"Oh dear." Fred said noticing the dangerous glint in Ginny's eyes. "What did this teacher mess with?"
"You mean who." Harry corrected before quickly explaining what happened.
"That's brilliant!" Fred said laughing. "To bad we didn't think to do that to the girl's dormitory when we were in school."
"No kidding." George said dreamily. "Girl's in pajamas."
"You two are horrible." Ginny said tucking the box away in her bag. "So what do I owe you for the pranks?"
"You wound us." Fred said dramatically covering his heart. "You think we would charge are dear little sister for products?"
Ginny rolled her eyes. "You've never given any of your products away before so why would now be different?"
"That Ginny is easy." George said putting his arm around his sister's shoulders. "As you are now dating our soul investor we find it wise to let you have them free of charge."
"What?!" Ginny asked wide eyed before suddenly pointing at Harry and shouting. "I knew it!"
"Just don't tell your mum." Harry said desperately. "I really would like to live to see my seventeenth birthday."
"For a price I think I can remember not to mention anything." Ginny said smiling sweetly at Harry.
"Mention what?" Ron's voice suddenly asked as him and Hermione finally joined the four.
"That Ginny's pregnant." Fred said.
"And Harry's going to be a father." George finished without missing a beat.
"She's what!" Ron cried.
* * * * * *
At three o'clock Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione found themselves back at Hogswarts on the quidditch field with Demin, Delia, Kairi, Sirius, and Remus getting ready to fly.
Harry had borrowed school brooms and willing quidditch members brooms so that every one had at least a decent broom to fly. Except Kairi who had opted to fly with Sirius for her first time out, not that Sirius was complaining about it.
Ten minutes after explaining to the elf's how to handle a broom Harry asked. "So are we ready?"
"Yes!" Delia said excitedly jumping from foot to foot.
"Brilliant!" Harry said. "Let's get to it. Just try not to crash into anyone."
"Aye Aye Captain." Sirius said giving Harry a mock salute before pushing off the ground with a delighted Kairi hanging on behind him. Remus followed shortly after them shaking his head in exasperation.
With some coaxing from Ron, Hermione and him pushed off the ground next, leaving Harry, Delia, Demin, and Ginny.
"Just remember to take good care of Harry for me." Ginny said winking at a giggling Delia before pushing off and soaring up after the others.
Harry turned and smiled at Demin. "Ready?"
"No." Demin said as Delia squealed, "Yes!"
Taken that as his cue Harry secured Delia in-between his arms before lightly pushing off the ground and sailing up into the air faster then the others had with a thrilled Delia in front of him.
It took Harry a few minutes to get use to Delia's weight in front of him, but once he had, he didn't take long in giving Delia the ride of her life.
"Hey rookie." Sirius said as Harry pulled up beside him. "How about a race to the other end of the field?"
Harry raised his eyebrows. "You think you and Kairi are even a match for Delia and I?"
"And what's that suppose to mean." Kairi asked Harry.
"It means." Harry clarified. "That Delia and I are at least 100 pounds lighter then you and are currently riding the better broom."
"Ah, you forget dear Harry, that I have years more experience then you do." Sirius said.
"You may have experience Sirius, but I'm the one with the skills." Harry reminded him.
"Now that's harsh Harry." Sirius said looking mortal wounded. "So are we on?"
"What do you think Delia?" Harry asked his passenger.
"Let's kick their butts!" Delia said sticking her tongue out at the two adults.
"Well you heard the lady." Harry said smiling. "You've got yourself a race."
"Brilliant!" Sirius said. "Loser as to explain to Demin why we took a mad dash across the field."
"Deal." Harry said grinning. "Delia would you do the honors."
Delia nodded, "On your mark, get set, GO!"
They both took off, Harry immediately taking the led. Sirius and Kairi who were currently riding a Numbus 2001 were surprisingly keeping on Harry's tail. Probably do to the fact that Harry wasn't pushing his broom to max speed.
"Come on Harry faster." Delia shouted as Sirius and Kairi pulled along side them.
"All right hold on tight." Harry said as he kicked his broom up a speed at the same time a black object came out of nowhere and shot directly for them.
Delia screamed and Harry dropped several feet within seconds to avoid the object, only realizing too late that Ron was directly below him. Going to fast to stop, Harry quickly jerked his broom to the left, missing Ron by inches, while sending him into a dangerous downward spiral.
Three feet from the ground Harry was able to grasp control of the broom and pull it sharply upwards, though is relief was short lived as the black objected again appeared out of nowhere, clipping him painfully on the side of the head.
"Harry!" Delia screamed in terror. "Harry are you ok?"
Harry reached up wincing as his hand touched his open wound coating his fingers with warm sticky blood.
"I'll be fine." Harry said shaking his head to clear his blurry vision as he heard shouts of alarm and confusion from around him.
"HARRY LOOK OUT!" Ginny voice suddenly shouted from her spot above Harry where she was currently hovering, wand drawn.
Harry's reflexes kicked in immediately as he did a barrel roll flipping him and Delia upside down, just as the object once again whooshed past them missing them by inches.
By now all the others had their wands drawn and were unsuccessfully trying to stop the object with any spell they could think of before it decapitated Harry.
Harry didn't even have time to think what to do next before the object appeared right in front of him coming to a dead stop mere inches from his face.
Harry just stared at the object in confusion before his eyes widen in complete horror.
"Everyone put a shield up and get out of here!" Harry yelled spinning around and speeding away from the objected while throwing up his own shield knowing it was already too late.
The explosion came seconds later as the round ball exploded rocking Hogwarts School grounds to its very core and illuminating the sky. The eruption caught Harry and Delia full force, propelling them both from the Firebolt. Harry still clinging to Delia tightly using his own body and magical shield to protector her as they both went barreling into the quidditch stands.
As long as Harry lived he would never forget Delia's terror filled screams as they both went crashing through the stands and into the wooden beams under the stadium as they made their descent downwards, Harry's shield becoming weaker with each beam they hit.
Harry wasn't sure how long it took for them to finally hit bottom. It seemed like hours, though in reality Harry knew it had only been seconds. All he remembered was the searing pain that shot through is body as he hit the ground. Delia still securely tucked in his arms on top off him sobbing.
"Delia?" Harry asked after sometime. "Delia are you all right?"
"My head hurts." Came the soft muffled reply against his chest.
"Anything else?" Harry asked weakly.
"No." Delia said slowly sitting up and looking around.
"Good." Harry said in relief. "Can you see away to get out of here?"
"Yes." Delia said sniffing. "To your right there's sunlight coming through a hole."
"Good. Do you think you can make your way to it?" Harry questioned his vision becoming blacker by the minute.
"I think so." Delia said shakily. "What about you?"
"I follow after you." Harry said closing his eyes so Delia wouldn't see his lie.
"You lie." Delia said forcefully.
Harry cursed under his breath, he had forgotten the Eleven children could easily spot a lie with their magic.
"Delia I can't move." Harry said softly "But you can. You need to get out of here before the entire structure collapses."
"No." Delia said firmly latching her arms around Harry's neck. "I will not leave you here."
"Delia you have to." Harry said sternly. "Your father can not lose you."
"He can't loose you either." Delia said stubbornly, fresh tears forming in her eyes. "I will not leave without you. I promised Ginny I would look after you."
Harry shook his head, too tried to argue anymore.
Harry vaguely remembered Delia gentle lying her head on his shoulder after a while and starting to sing in old Eleven children song Kairi had sang to her as a child.
As Harry's last state of consciousness slowly slips away from him he prayed, deep from his heart, that Delia would make it out of there alive.
***Would this be a good time to tell you I'm not going to finish this story? . . . . . .. . . . .. Just Kidding! I was just kidding! I just couldn't resist. Anyway I know you people hate cliffhangers, but this chapter was already double what I usually write and I figured that was a great place to leave it.
Next Chapter? Not really sure. I'm leaving on vacation again for four days and then school starts again next week so I'm hoping some where within the next two weeks. But I promise I don't intend on quitting this story ever! I'm going to write it until the glory's end, which won't be for some time seeing how I've still got so much to do and explain. Anyway please be patient the next chapters coming!
Thank you viridis for point out my really stupid mistake. You're right it is Destiny not Silver. I was original going to use Silver but went with Destiny, Duh me! So Stupid. Anyway thanks viridis.
Chapter 19: More then you Bargained For
After Kairi's little prank, Harry and Ron had had to sit and endure several hours of their two very pissed off girlfriends yelling non stop at them. Which they thought was immensely unfair seeing how they had no control over what Kairi did or didn't do.
It had only ended when Ginny had suddenly stop yelling mid sentence a look of brilliance crossing her face before she went dashing out of the tower without another word.
When Ginny had reappeared twenty minutes later it was with a look of pure satisfaction on her face and an evil glint in her blue eyes. When Harry had asked where she had been she had simple said, 'You'll see.'
Which, once translate meant, "Kairi was one dead elf."
* * * *
"Potter you will remain after class." Professor Snape voice rang out over the student's ruckus in their haste to escape the dark dungeons as quickly as possible.
Harry looked up surprised, wondering what he possible could have done now.
"What did you do now?" Ron asked snickering. "Did you solidify another caldron?"
"Ha Ha Ron." Harry said not amused. "How should I know. Besides when does Snape ever need a reason for keeping me after class?"
"Good point." Ron said throwing his book into his bag. "Do you want us to wait for you?"
"No, go to lunch I'll catch up with you there." Harry said holstering his bag onto his shoulder. "I wouldn't want to see you die of starvation."
"Glad to see you're think of my stomach." Ron said picking up his bag and hopping down from his stool. "I'd wish you luck mate, but I don't think it'll do you any good."
"Probably not." Harry said smiling reassuringly at Hermione before making his way to Snape's desk. Where his presence was completely ignored until the classroom door shut noisily behind the last student.
"Mr. Potter." Snape said, not even bothering to look up form the parchment he was currently writing on while pulling out a medium size vial from one of his robe pockets. "See if your tiny Gryffindor brain can identify that potion."
Harry gave Snape a look that clearly asked, 'Have you gone mental?' and was on the verge of saying 'Shouldn't you know? You are the potion master.' But thought better of it.
"May I examine it?" Harry asked instead.
Snape gave a curt nod handing the potion to Harry.
Harry examined the vial carefully noticing the substance was unnaturally dark in color and very thick in density. Uncorking the bottle Harry gave it a brief sniff and nearly dropped the vial in surprise.
"Be Careful Potter!" Snape barked snatching the liquid from Harry's hand.
"Sorry sir." Harry said quickly, still staring at the vial, dumbfounded.
"Well Potter?" Snape asked impatiently.
"The potion texture and aroma strongly resembles that of Mesqiere's gift. Yet it's darker then any Mesquiere's gift I've ever seen and the smell is off." Harry finally said.
"Can you tell me precisely what ingredient smell is off?" Snape asked.
"The lilacs." Harry answered immediately. "They spell . . . over cooked."
"Indeed." Professor Snape said returning back to his writing.
Finally after sometime Professor Snape spoke again. "You are corrected Mr. Potter. This is Mesquiere's gift, or at least a by-product of it."
"What do you mean?" Harry asked confused.
"This Mr. Potter is Mesquiere's Jewel, or at least that is what it will be called once it is brought to the publics attention." Snape said setting the potion down in front of him.
"Professor?" Harry asked, still not quite understanding him.
"Mesquiere's Jewel. Discovered a week ago as the known cure for stages two and three of Retrospection." Snape said shortly.
Harry jaw dropped, as he was rendered completely speechless. Mid-evil wizards, witches, and great potion masters a-like, all across the world, have been trying to discover this cure for decades.
"You are probably wondering why I am sharing this information with you?" Snape said looking up when Harry didn't speak.
All Harry could do was nod.
"You see Potter, this" Snape said waving the vial in Harry's direction. "Is your potion that you so nicely baked four weeks ago before solidifying over in ice."
"What?!" Harry cried. Suddenly wondering if he wasn't trapped in some bizarre dream.
"My thoughts exactly Potter." Snape said. "I unthawed your potion that day only on the intent of giving you detention for the rest of your life for destroying perfectly good ingredients. So you can imagine my surprise when I found, that not only was your potion still Mesquiere's gift, it had also become quite potent. Thus, I have been spending the last four weeks braking down the formula and testing it out with some of the most brilliant minds known to medical history trying to discover it's potential."
"And?" Harry prompted when Snape didn't continue.
"After testing the potion for two weeks we received permission from a girl's family to administer Mesquiere's Jewel to their daughter. The young girl had been admitted to the hospital five months ago after an accident that caused her to slip into a coma. She had been diagnosed under stage two of Retrospection."
"And she recovered?" Harry asked.
"Yes. Three days after administering the potion the girl come out of her coma. Her memory and body functions undamaged." Snape said eyeing the vial of potion critically.
"Has there been any side effects?" Harry asked interested.
"No, not so far at least. But discovers like this takes time to study and test." Snape said returning to his writing. "Although we have caught the attention of the Ministry awfully quickly. Possible due to the fact that many families have been demanded that this potion be administer to their afflicted family members."
"This is incredible." Harry breathed.
"Yes, I'll agree with you there." Snape said looking at Harry. "It's a major achievement for the medical field. Which brings me to the other reason I asked you to stay behind. The Ministry is demanded that the inventor of this potion be brought forth and that Mr. Potter would be you."
"What?" Harry asked dumbly. "I did not invent this potion."
"As much as it kills me to admit Mr. Potter, you did in fact invent this potion." Snape said rolling up the piece of parchment he had been writing on. "So what time shall I inform the ministry you can meet with them?"
"Professor this is ludicrous! All I did was nuke a potion, almost getting murdered by my potion Professor in the process! The entire thing was a completely accident! Besides you're the one that did all the hard work and researched this potion for its capabilities. This potion rightfully belongs to you!"
"Accident or not Mr. Potter your name will be placed under inventor." Snape said leaving no room in his voice for argument. "Furthermore Potter you are the only living person capable of making this potion."
"Excuse me?" Harry asked blinking.
"Are you deaf as well as dumb?" Professor Snape asked. "I have tried many time to make this potion and have failed ever attempt. It seems that the potion can only be created with the use of lightening and ice. For some reason the friction and the heat that is caused by your lightening bolt is what is required to make it more potent, while the ice traps in the potency before it can be dissolved. No spell seems to be able to match the lightning's potential."
"How much more do they need?" Harry finally asked in defeat.
"Right now St. Mungo's has asked for twenty more vials immediately. Seeing how I am holding the last remaining vial. We have also had requests from France, German, and America's Ministries of Magic for at least ten vials apiece as soon as it comes available. So I'd say seven cauldrons full should satisfy people. For now." Professor Snape said.
"Professor between all my other after school activities, there is no way I will have time to produce this potion as fast as people need it." Harry said shaking his head. "There's just no way."
"Then people will simple have to wait until the famous Harry Potter has time to spare." Snape sneered at him.
Ignoring the usual rude remark Harry said, "I have a better idea."
"I'm listening." Snape said.
"We go into this as partners. You make the potion and I will make the required additions when the time comes. We share the credit equally." Harry said, truly believing his Professor deserved this recognition.
"What makes you think I'd want to do this for you?" Snape asked bluntly. "I have no interest in dealing with the Ministry or the Press over this discovery. My name next to yours is a sure way to get me involved. Besides Potter isn't dealing with the press your field of expertise?"
"Listen Professor." Harry said starting to get angry. "You're the one who did all the hard research and discovered that my potion was a cure for Retrospection. If it had been left up to me I would have dumped the whole thing down the drain without a second thought! So stop being a stubborn jackass and accept the credit you deserve!"
"Fifty points from Gryffindor for your lack of respected Mr. Potter." Snape said through gritted teeth. "And I would like to make it very clear to you Potter that I want as little to do with YOU and your name as possible! It's bad enough I have to see your old face three times a week, ten months out of the year! Now get out!"
"Fine!" Harry shouted. "Inform the hospitals and other Ministries of Magic that I will get their potion to them as soon as I find time in-between my classes, eating, sleeping and trying to keep one step ahead of Voldemort's assassination attempts on me! I will talk to Dumbledore myself with regards to our Ministry so don't trouble yourself." And with that Harry turned on his heels and stormed out of the classroom.
Once Harry reached the Great Hall he stood outside for a moment taking deep breaths, trying to calm down before entering.
"Harry?" A gentle voice asked.
Looking up Harry meet the kind blue eyes of the Headmaster. "Hello Professor."
"Is something wrong Harry?" Dumbledore asked in concerned.
Harry shook his head and sighed. "Nothing that you don't already know."
"Uh, I take it Professor Snape talked to you?" Dumbledore said in understanding.
"Yes." Harry said wearily. "I offered to share the credit with him since he was the one who really discover the cure. He told me he would rather work with Professor Lockhart."
"Did he now?" Dumbledore asked surprised.
"Well not in those exact words, but he might as well have." Harry said shaking his head sadly. "I just don't understand where all this hate for me is coming from."
"It's nothing personal." Dumbledore told Harry.
Harry gave Dumbledore a skeptical look, but shrug it off. "I'm not entirely sure when Professor, but I will get you the next batch of potion as soon I can. As for the Ministry, I guess I have to face them sooner of later."
"Harry don't worry about producing the potion right away, the need for it will still be there when you do find the time to make it." Dumbledore said smiling gentle at Harry. "As for the Ministry, I will talk with Arthur personally and see if we can't keep your name out of it for the time being."
Harry gave the Headmaster a relieve smile. "Thank you Professor."
"No problem my dear boy." Dumbledore said smiling at him. "I do believe your friends are waiting for you."
Harry nodded and turned to leave when Dumbledore voice stopped him.
"Harry I would like to talk to you and Sirius tonight at seven. Will you pass the passage onto Sirius for me?"
Harry turned to the Headmaster to tell him he would, only to find Dumbledore already gone. 'How does he do that?' Harry wondered as he entered the Great Hall.
"So what did Snape want?" Ron asked the minute Harry seated himself beside Ginny.
"I'll tell you later." Harry said filling his plate with food. He really didn't want anyone to over hear this particular conversation.
"You better." Ron said before turning his attention back to his plate while Hermione continued to give him a calculating look.
"Later Hermione." Harry said smiling at her.
Nodding reluctantly Hermione turned her attention back to her Transfiguration text and buried her noise in it once again.
"Rough day I take it." Ginny said, frowning as Harry started playing with his food.
"You have no idea." Harry sighed. "Hope your days going better?"
"Oh I thing it is." Ginny said an evil smirk crossing her face.
"Do I even want to know?" Harry asked.
"As a matter of fact you do." Ginny said reaching into her robe pocket and pulling out a piece of parchment. "I received a letter today from George and Fred and they have agreed to meet us in Hogsmeade tomorrow."
"What for?" Ron asked looking up confused.
"Oh, I just informed them that I had some willing volunteers to test out their newly developed products on. After I offered to buy the products and then test them out free of charge, let's just say they were more then willing to meet my terms." Ginny said smiling innocently.
"Look out Kairi." Harry said with a groan. "Whose idea was it to start a prank war anyway?"
"Yours." Ginny, Ron, and Hermione said simultaneously.
* * * * *
Finally the last class of the day arrived and all the students were eagerly talking about the first Hogsmeade visit tomorrow.
"How many students do you think will be staying behind this year?" Ron asked as he took his normal seat beside Hermione in Transfiguration.
"I don't know." Hermione said frowning. "Though by the looks of it I wouldn't say many. Most of them are talking like nothings change."
"Maybe the students aren't aware of the new permission slips that were sent out." Harry said thoughtfully.
"I'm sure we'll find out at the end of class." Hermione said reasonable. "Professor McGonagall is bound to mention something at the end of class."
"Most likely." Ron said before turning his attention to the front of the classroom as McGonagall entered and started class.
"Today class you will be transforming your chairs into animals." Professor McGonagall said. "So if you will all stand and place yourself behind your chairs I will pass around this goblet full of parchment. Take one and open it and on it you will find the required animal you are to use."
Five minutes later the class was all situated behind their chairs, each with a piece of parchment in their hands.
"Ok class I want you to do this in groups of three, one performing the spell while the others watch to make sure nothing seriously goes wrong." Professor McGonagall said. "I will be walking around checking on your progress. You may begin."
"Ladies first." Ron said smirking at Hermione.
Hermione just glared at Ron, before saying 'fine' and raising her arm and reciting the spell.
With a small pop Hermione's chair slowly started to get shorter until all that was left of it was a cute white rabbit.
Hermione looked up at Ron smugly.
"Excellent work Miss Granger." Professor McGonagall announced coming to stand beside the three teens. "Twenty point to Gryffindor."
"Thank you Professor." Hermione said beaming.
"Show off." Ron muttered under his breath only loud enough for Harry to hear.
"You know you could be a show off too if you'd bothered to do your homework properly." Harry muttered back.
"Now where would be the fun in that?" Ron asked.
"Jeez I don't know, maybe you would actually pass your classes with a respectable grade." Harry suggested.
Ron didn't get a chance to comment back as Hermione had already returned her chair back to normal and was impatiently waiting for one of them to take their turn.
"Fine I'll go." Ron said stepping forward and reciting the spell. Seconds later a gray dog appeared, well except for the fact it still had stool legs for its limbs.
Harry and Hermione trade looks before bursting out laughing.
"It's not funny." Ron snapped irritably.
"Yes it is." Harry said laughing.
"It would seem Mr. Weasley that you need to spend a little more time studying your text." Professor McGonagall said beside the red head.
"Yes Professor." Ron reluctantly grumbled.
"Don't worry to much Mr. Weasley, it seems you will have plenty of your years mate to keep you company." Professor McGonagall said shaking her head disapprovingly. "Change it back Mr. Weasley and continue."
After griping some more Ron returned his chair back to normal and sat down on it heavily. "Alright Harry lets see you do it."
Harry shrugged and pointed his wand at his chair and said, "transformo baby tigress."
A second later the three teens were staring at a beautiful white tiger that was laying on the floor curiously staring up at them through dull gray eyes.
"Wow Harry." Hermione breathed. Cautiously bending down and carefully picking up the little white tiger and inspecting it. "He's beautiful."
"That he is Miss Granger." Professor McGonagall's voice suddenly said making Harry jump and wonder if she was watching any group beside theirs.
"May I?" She asked extending her arms for the tiger. Hermione nodded and handed over the white fur ball.
"Twenty five points to Gryffindor Mr. Potter and I compliment you on your admirable work." Professor McGonagall said after thoroughly examined the male tiger and handed it back to Harry with a smile.
"Thanks." Harry muttered embarrassed.
Professor McGonagall nodded before walking away to see what Dean, Seamus, and Neville were up to.
Once gone the girls instantly crowded around Harry trying to get a better look at the tiger.
"He's so adorable!" Patil said reaching a hand out to pet it.
"Can I hold it?" Another girl Harry didn't know asked.
"Er . . ." Harry said, but was luckily saved from answering.
"Class!" Professor McGonagall shouted. "Go back to your groups and leave Mr. Potter alone."
Very reluctantly the group of girls dispersed leaving behind a very relieved Harry.
"Man if that's all it would have took to get a girl I would have done my homework ages ago." Ron said, before suddenly remember Hermione was there. "That is . . . I mean, before I got smart and realized I already had a perfect girl right in front of me."
"Smooth Ron." Harry said rolling his eyes at his friend, wondering if he was ever going to learn to keep his mouth shut.
"You better get your chair change back." Ron said, hastily trying to change the subject as Hermione continued to glare at him.
"Must I?" Harry asked looking at the tiger that was contently resting in his arms.
"Harry he's not real." Hermione said. "He has no essence of life in him."
"I know." Harry said looking up at Hermione. Thus failing to notice that the little white tiger had found something interesting to play with.
"Harry . . ." Ron tried to warn his friend of the danger, though is came a little too late. The tiger's paws was now firmly grasping Harry's silver necklace that had come loose of his robes.
A flash of white light blinded the three teens seconds later, before Harry suddenly found himself laying flat on his back on the floor, while the little white tiger laid sprawled next to him dazed.
"Mr. Potter are you alright?" Professor McGonagall stern voice asked somewhere above him.
"I think so." Harry said slowly sitting up. Though a moment later when an eager male voice entered his head he wasn't quite sure anymore.
"That was so cool! Can I do that again?"
Harry looked down at the tiger wide eyed and stunned, only his quick reflexes stopping the tiger from grabbing his necklace again.
"Sweat Merlin!" Harry whispered in utter shock as he stared into the now lively sapphire eyes of the tiger.
"What happened?" Professor McGonagall demanded after perceiving that no one was hurt.
"I don't know." Harry said quickly, tearing his eyes away from the vivid blue ones and attempting to ignore the whining voice in his head.
"Oh come on! Let me just touch it one more time! I promise I won't hurt it!"
"Mr. Potter I suggest you tell me the truth!" Professor McGonagall said giving Harry a menacing look.
"Well you see." Ron jumped in quickly, "The tiger was playing and went for Harry's Nec . . . " But Ron suddenly trailed off as he caught sight of both Hermione's and Harry's warning looks.
McGonagall gave each of them a questioning look before comprehension suddenly dawned in her eyes.
"Mr. Potter I would like to see you my office." Professor McGonagall said in a calm voice. "The rest of you finish up and I will be back in a few moment to give you the new instructions concerning this weekends Hogsmeade visit. Miss Granger you're in charge."
With that the Professor swept out of the room motioning for Harry to bring the tiger and follow. Once seated in her office Harry explained what happened.
"What did the necklace's power do to the tiger?" Professor McGonagall asked after he was done.
"I'm not entirely sure." Harry said looking at the tiger that was now trying to escape his hold. "It seems to be alive now. Like it miraculously received a . . . a . . ."
"A soul?" McGonagall asked in astonishment.
"Yes!" Harry cried. "But I don't understand how? Yet I know it's true because I can now hear his voice inside my head, but the strangest thing is his eyes."
"What about them?" Professor McGonagall asked.
"When I first transfigured the tiger they were a dull gray color, but now their blue and so full of life. I don't understand?"
"Neither do I Mr. Potter." Professor McGonagall said. "Would you mind if I took him up to see the Headmaster after class?"
Harry shook his head. "No, I have to meet him tonight anyway."
"Good I'll inform him of the situation and then you can talk to him about it tonight." Professor McGonagall said. Then she suddenly looked over her spectacles at Harry. "It would seem Harry that you are still full of surprises. First potions and now this?"
Harry groaned. "I wish I could get through one year just being normal."
To Harry's surprise, McGonagall chuckled. "Harry we can never be anything but who we are. And that my boy is not normal for you."
Harry smiled slightly at his Professor. "I guess that means I can never be normal."
"No Harry you can't." Professor McGonagall said retrieving the tiger from Harry's arms and placing it in a cage she had just transfigured. "Come Harry, let's get back to class."
Harry nodded and stood to leave, but not before silently telling the tiger to behave, which surprised the little fur ball into tripping over its own feet and ending up on it's face.
"You speak my language!" The tiger cried in surprise after recovering from its tumble.
"Look we'll talk later, just behave." Harry said leaving the office with the tigers promise to behave.
Once back in the classroom Harry found a seat while shaking his head at his two friends silently telling them he would talk to them later. Nodding their heads in understanding they turned their attention back to Professor McGonagall.
"As you all undoubtedly know, a Hogsmeade visit as been scheduled for this weekend. Though what you may not know is that new rules have been set in place for your protection." Professor McGonagall said catching the attention of ever student. "First off, new permission slips were sent out to your parents or guardians over the summer warning them of the new dangers. Only those who are on the list posted outside this classroom or in your common rooms will be permitted to go to Hogsmeade this year. So make sure you look over the list carefully, anyone caught in Hogsmeade without permission will face immediate expulsion, no excuse." Professor McGonagall said, stopping to make sure every student understood. "If you do not find your name on the list it will only be a waste of my time and yours complaining to me or any other teacher. So unless you want detention for a mouth I would not approach a teacher about unsigned permission slips. Is that understood? Good. Class dismissed."
At her dismissal most students scrambled out of their seats and raced out the door to see the list. Harry, Ron, and Hermione hung back in the classroom to talk.
"So what happened to the tiger?" Hermione asked straight away.
"He's in Professor McGonagall's office." Harry told her. "She's going to bring him to Professor Dumbledore and explain what happened."
"Very reasonable." Hermione said nodding hear head in approve.
"Good old Dumbledore." Ron said. "Don't know what we'd do without him."
"Probable have I more peaceful life." Harry said as he and his two friends exited the classroom.
"Hermione what are you doing?" Ron asked as Hermione separated from them to go read the list. "You already know your names on there."
"I am just double checking." Hermione said defensively. "You never know if our slips got lost on the way."
"Right." Ron said rolling his eyes. "Come on Harry lets go drop are stuff off in the lair and head down to dinner, I'm starving."
Harry was about to answer Ron when Hermione voice interrupted them. "Harry your names not on here."
"What?" Harry asked, immediately echoed by Ron who franticly ran up to look for himself.
"She's right." Ron said turning back to face Harry. "I thought you said Sirius was going to sign yours."
"He was suppose to." Harry said. "Look I'm going to go find him. Why don't you guys go meet up with Ginny, grab some food from the kitchen and meet me in the Lair where I'll then explain everything that's happen to me today.
"All right." Hermione said quickly grabbing Ron's arm and leading him away before he could protest.
Smiling Harry headed off in the opposite direction arriving five minutes later in Sirius and Remus apartment. Remus hunched over some papers and Sirius nowhere in sight.
"Hey Harry." Remus said looking up from his work.
"Hey Remus. Is Sirius around?" Harry asked coming to stand beside Remus's chair.
"Yes I am, why?" Sirius asked coming out of a side room.
"Because I believe you have something that belongs to me." Harry said glaring at his Godfather accusingly.
"Whatever do you mean?" Sirius asked.
"The Hogsmeade slip you promise to sign." Harry said patiently.
"Oh, you mean this?" Sirius asked pulling out a piece of parchment and holding it in the air.
"Yes!" Harry cried, immediately grabbing for it only to have it yanked out of his reach.
"Sirius." Harry growled dangerously.
"What?" Sirius asked innocently. "You want this?"
"Sirius hand over the parchment and I will kindly let you walk away from this unharmed." Harry said, only half joking.
"Is that a threat?" Sirius asked in mock indignation.
In one swift movement Harry had crouched down and performed a quick leg sweep, catching his Godfather by the ankles and sending him crashing to the floor flat on his back, while firmly placed one of his knees on Sirius's chest pinning him to the ground.
"No Sirius, that was a promise." Harry said snatching the parchment out of Sirius's stun hands.
"Thanks." Harry said smirking. Quickly getting off of Sirius and retreating to the door. "Oh by the way Dumbledore wants to see us at seven tonight." Harry yelled over his shoulder before exiting the room.
"Ok what just happened?" Sirius asked sitting up and rubbing his back.
"Padfoot I believe you have just met your match." Remus said laughing. "Harry Potter one Sirius Black zero."
"Well we can't have that now can we?" Sirius said, an evil smirk spreading across his face. "A Potter will never be better then a Black."
Remus groaned.
After leaving Sirius and Remus quarters Harry made a quick stop in Demin's where Delia immediately pounced on him upon entering.
"Harry! What are you doing here? Did you come to see me?" Delia asked releasing Harry and staring up at him.
"As a matter of fact I have come to see you." Harry said smiling at Delia. "How have your lessons been coming with Madam Phomary?"
"Great! I've already shifted up three levels since I've been here and Madam Pomphry has even let me heal some of the minor injuries on the students! It was fun!" Delia said ecstatically. "Why?"
"Just wanted to make sure you can treat your father's heartache after your first flying lesson tomorrow." Harry said grinning at Delia.
"You mean it?!" Delia said hugging Harry tightly. "I'm really going flying tomorrow?!"
Harry was about to answer when a noise behind him startled him. Turning around he found Demin standing in the open doorway mouth set in grim line, while glass shards lay shattered at his feet.
"I gather you heard." Harry said giving Demin a smile.
"Daddy Harry's taking me flying tomorrow!" Delia said running to her father. "Are you going to come and watch. Harry says if you have a heartache I'll be able to heal you since I've been training so hard with Madam Pomphry, so don't worry."
"Well wasn't that nice of Harry." Demin said sarcastically, repairing the broken glass.
"Demin don't worry so much." Harry said. "She won't even be on her own broom. She'll be riding with me until she gets the feel of it."
"That's suppose to make me feel better?" Demin asked crossing the room and seating on the couch.
"Demin you're going to be there and so are Sirius, Remus, Kairi and my friends. She'll be fine." Harry said. "If it will make you feel any better I'll get you a broom to ride."
"Actually I'd like that." Demin said perking up. "I've seen teams out on the field practicing and it looks like fun."
"All right I'll borrow one for you. Harry said laughing at Demin's swift turn of mood "So I'll see you tomorrow at three on the field. I've got it for two hours seeing how I've giving the Gryffindor team today and tomorrow off before our first game."
"Thank you Harry!" Delia squealed hugging Harry again. "I'm going to go find Aunt Kairi and tell her!" Delia said before dashing out of the room.
"I'll see you later Demin." Harry said shaking his head and heading for the door.
"Harry thanks." Demin's voice said stopping Harry in the doorway.
"For what?" Harry asked looking over his shoulder at Demin.
"For being Delia's brother." Demin said turning to look at Harry.
"Believe me when I tell you it's been my pleasure." Harry said smiling at Demin before disappearing.
* * * * * *
Harry spent what little time he had after visiting Sirius and Demin explaining to his friends about the potion he had created and then filling Ginny in on the transfigured tiger.
To say his friends were more then a little overwhelmed would have been an understatement. Harry thought Hermione was never going to stop asking questions.
Finally Harry had to leave to meet Dumbledore leaving his friends to their homework.
Once out in the halls Harry sent out a silent call to his animal companies.
"Elle, Destiny can you please meet me outside the headmasters office?" Harry asked them.
"Of course Kiosk." Elle voice immediately answered him.
"I will be their as well young master." Destiny's voice said seconds later.
"Thank you." Harry said ducking through a secret passage and arriving minutes later outside the Headmasters office. Only to find his two friends already there and waiting for him.
Harry blinked in surprise. "What did you do, Apparite here?"
"No, Destiny used her magic to get us here." Elle said jumped into Harry's arms. "Is there something wrong?"
"No, I least I don't think so." Harry said reaching out to stroke his phoenix. "There's just somebody I'd like you to meet."
He's friends expressed their understanding as Harry gave the password and ascended the stairs. Once at the top he knocked and was granted entrance immediately.
The first thing Harry noticed when he entered was that his Godfather was already there sitting on the floor with a piece of string dangling from his fingers as a hyperactive tiger tried to grab hold of it.
"Hello Harry." Dumbledore said from his potion behind his desk watching Sirius. "It would seem that you will never cease to amaze me."
"I'll say." Sirius said looking up out at his Godson. "Why didn't you tell me about your new friends here?"
"Jeez I don't know, maybe because I was a little annoyed with you the last time I saw you." Harry said sarcastically. "Besides I wasn't entirely sure he'd still be here."
"Oh he's not going anywhere." Dumbledore said. "It would seem he as indeed acquired the needed essence to live."
"Mind telling me how?" Harry asked sitting across from his Godfather.
"Now that's the most interesting part." Dumbledore said eyes twinkling. "It would seem that when your young tiger here touched your necklace a spark of your magic was given unconsciously, yet willingly, to the young cub, consequently giving him life."
"What do you mean willingly?" Harry asked continuing to watch his Godfather tease the tiger.
"Meaning that somewhere in your subconscious Harry you wanted to give this tiger life. So when it connected with your necklace the power that still residing in it granted that wish for you." Dumbledore explained.
"That's the reason I can talk to it." Harry said comprehension dawn on him. "Because it was a part of my magic that gave it life, it has nothing to do with him being magical."
"Well you are right on one account." Dumbledore said beaming at Harry. "You can hear him because he is essentially a part of you, yet I don't believe he is just any ordinary tiger."
"Meaning?" Harry asked not really wanting to know the answer.
"Meaning young Harry that your cub my have well been given some of your powers." Dumbledore said smiling.
"Please tell me your kidding." Harry groaned.
"I'm afraid not." Dumbledore said chuckling. "It seems I must add yet another unusually pet to me exception list under your name."
"If my vote counts for anything, which it should since I'm really not a cat person, I like him." Sirius said scratching the tiger under the chin as Harry mumble "It doesn't."
"So what are you going to name him?" Sirius asked ignoring Harry's remark.
"How about Padfoot Jr.?" Harry asked innocently.
"Do it and you're dead." Sirius said given his Godson a death glare.
"You're right, we wouldn't want to insult the tiger." Harry said smirking. "Why don't you name him?"
"Me?" Sirius asked surprise. "Whatever for?"
"Because Sirius he likes you." Harry said with a shrug. "Merlin knows why."
"Must be my natural charm." Sirius said grinning at Harry who rolled his eyes.
"How about Cobalt?" Sirius finally asked.
"Cobalt. For his eyes." Harry asked more as a statement. "I like it."
"Me too." Sirius said grinning. "Cobalt it is."
"Good." Harry said introducing Elle and Destiny to Cobalt.
"So Albus, what other reason did you want to see us?" Sirius asked getting to his feet and dragging Harry with him.
"Uh that." Dumbledore said suddenly turning solemn, "Please have a seat."
"That bad uh?" Sirius asked slouching down in a chair.
"It all depends." Dumbledore said giving them both searching looks. "It would seem that Draco Malfoy is ready to return to school."
For a moment there was complete silence except for the telepathic voices inside Harry's head that he had tuned out the moment Dumbledore spoke Draco's name.
Finally Sirius spoke. "So soon?"
"According to his mother and Professor Snape he has made fast progress and is ready to come back." Dumbledore said sincerely. "I too have visited him and believe he is ready to rejoin the student body."
"It seems to me that you have already made your decision." Sirius said a little agitated. "So why are you involving us again?"
"Because I believe you and Harry should have the finally decision in this." Dumbledore said.
"Why?" Harry asked immediately.
"For several reasons Harry." Dumbledore said giving Harry a piercing look. "But the most important being I trust and respect your judgement."
"Well I'll tell you right now that I'm not thrilled with the idea." Sirius said grimly. "Nevertheless, if YOU believe he his ready to return then I see no reason to stop you. However, if he comes within five feet of Harry I'm not guarantee that he won't end up in the hospital wing."
"I wouldn't except any less." Dumbledore said smiling slightly at Sirius. "Harry?"
Harry looked at Dumbledore pensively for a moment before finally saying. "As long as he keeps his distance from my family, I don't see a problem either."
"Good." Dumbledore said. "I will inform the respective parties that Draco may return on Monday."
"Is that all you needed?" Harry asked wearily. "I've got some homework that needs finishing."
"Of course Harry." Dumbledore said dismissing him with a smile.
Harry nodded thankfully and stood from his chair only to have his Cubcat jump into his arms. "Kiosk I refuse to be friends with that . . . that . . . thing! He's ill-mannered and completely half-witted!"
"Oh come on I'm not that bad!" the tiger said defensively. "I just wanted to see how far her tail could stretch!"
"How would you like me to pull on your tail you impolite little ingrate!" Elle shouted back hissing angrily.
Harry looked from one cat to the other in total bewilderment, before turning to his Phoenix.
"Don't look at me." Destiny informed Harry. "They are both being utterly childish."
"I'm not being childish!" Both cats yelled simultaneously.
"See what I mean." Destiny said.
"I swear Kiosk, if you make me live with that monster he will be dead by morning!" Elle proclaimed.
"Like to see you try." Cobalt stupidly challenged back.
Before Harry had time to even blink Elle had jumped from his arms at Cobalt, sending them both spiraling across the floor.
"Elle stop it!" Harry cried in alarm.
Elle surprisingly just ignored him as she crouched down in a defensive position across from Cobalt growling dangerously.
"Does the little girl want to play?" Cobalt taunted. "Give me your best shot."
Which was exactly what Elle did.
Cobalt didn't even see it coming as the electrical shock hit him in the chest sending him flying across the room where he luckily landed on the couch.
"Elle! Cobalt!" Harry cried. "Stop it!"
Cobalt who had been slightly fazed by the attack didn't waste much time getting back on his feet and taunting Elle again. Both right out ignoring Harry.
"That was pretty good for a girl, but why don't you try this out." Cobalt said as a fireball shot directly out of his mouth straight at Elle, who dodged it easily.
"I guess I was right in assuming that Cobalt had obtained some of your magic." Dumbledore's amuse voice broke in.
Harry turned and glared at the Headmaster.
"So what are they fighting about exactly?" Sirius cut in before Harry could open his mouth.
"Territorial dispute." Harry said gritting his teeth as Cobalt took another trip across the room curtsy of Elle.
"Interesting." Sirius said. "Any bets on the winner?"
Harry shook his head in disbelief. "No, because I'm putting a stop to this before someone gets hurt."
Without further delay Harry froze both culprits in mid attack, flicking his wrist to disperse their spells before picking them both of up.
"Congratulation Sirius you have a new pet." Harry said dumping Cobalt into his lap. "And now if you'll excuse me I have other things to do besides baby-sit."
"Harry you can't leave him with me!" Sirius cried in dismay.
"Why ever not?" Harry asked. "He seems to like you and you said you liked him, so I don't see the problem. Besides you both seem to have the same personality, rude and unmanageable."
And with that Harry was gone, leaving behind one very amused Headmaster and one slightly stun, but delighted Godfather.
* * * * *
After Harry had reassured Elle that Cobalt wasn't going to take her territory, she calm down considerable and apologized for her behave. Later Harry had gone to check on Cobalt, only to find that both Sirius and Remus was adapting quite well to their new house mate. Probably do to the fact he is a born troublemaker.
Then he had mistakenly told his friends that Draco was returning on Monday causing Ron to blow a fuse. He had ranted and raved for hours, right up until it was time to attend dueling class, where he had then promptly took at his frustration on poor Dean who had happened to partner him that night.
Tomorrow just couldn't come soon enough for Harry.
* * * * * * *
"Hey Ginny, Harry over here." A voice called out.
Harry and Ginny both turned to find Fred and George sitting at a far corner table in the Three Broom Sticks waving at them.
"About time you got here." Fred said once the two had seated themselves.
"Sorry." Ginny said. "Hermione and Ron got into a fight on the way here and it took awhile to convince them to calm down, then even more time to persuade them to go talk somewhere private. They said they'll meet us here when they're ready."
George snickered. "So are we going to take bets on how long their relationship is going to last?"
"A lot longer then any of yours." Ginny said smacking her brother.
"And why dear sister would prospers businessmen, like ourselves, want to find spouses who would do nothing but spend our hard earned fortune?"
Ginny snorted. "The way this families going the only grandchildren our parents are ever going to have will be mine."
"What?" Fred asked stunned. "You're pregnant?"
"Congratulation Harry." George said shaking Harry's hand. "You're going to be a father."
"That is not what I meant!" Ginny said.
"Besides if she is, it's not mine." Harry said shaking his head in amusement.
"Ginny how could you cheat on Harry." George reprimanded. "You know for a fact that the only bother-in-law any of us will ever except is Harry."
"Jeez, I'm honored." Harry said. "To think I'm stuck with Ginny whether I like it or not. Well that, or spend the rest of my life being hunted by seven Weasley men intent on killing me."
"So true." George said while Fred nodded beside him.
"I truly feel sorry for you mate." Fred added. "Ginny is not the easiest person to get along with."
"You're telling me." Harry said. "Ow!"
"Would you three shut up." Ginny said. "I did not cheat on Harry and I'm not pregnant. I simple meant then none of you boys seem to be able to find a girl stupid enough to marry you."
"Wait until I tell Hermione you called her stupid." Harry said laughing.
"Would you guys stop twisting my words around!" Ginny said "Besides I yet to see a ring on either Hermione or my finger."
"And there better not be for at least another five years." Fred said only half joking.
"Well there goes your Christmas present." Harry said.
"Urg!" Ginny growled in frustration. "Would you two just show us the products you brought with you?"
"But of course." Fred said bringing a box about a foot in length and six inches wide out of a bag sitting beside him and opening it.
"As you can see there is instructions next to each item. Read and do as it says and you will have one brilliant prank set into motion." Fred said closing the box and handing it to Ginny. "Though we want a full report on the results of each."
"Most diffidently." George said. "So are you going to tell us who your unfortunate victims are?"
"Let's see, there's are new DADA teacher." Harry said laughing at the horrified looks on the twin's faces.
"You want these to prank a teacher?" George asked stunned.
"Not just any teacher." Ginny said mischievously. "This teacher just happen to have messed with some of my property and now she must pay."
"Oh dear." Fred said noticing the dangerous glint in Ginny's eyes. "What did this teacher mess with?"
"You mean who." Harry corrected before quickly explaining what happened.
"That's brilliant!" Fred said laughing. "To bad we didn't think to do that to the girl's dormitory when we were in school."
"No kidding." George said dreamily. "Girl's in pajamas."
"You two are horrible." Ginny said tucking the box away in her bag. "So what do I owe you for the pranks?"
"You wound us." Fred said dramatically covering his heart. "You think we would charge are dear little sister for products?"
Ginny rolled her eyes. "You've never given any of your products away before so why would now be different?"
"That Ginny is easy." George said putting his arm around his sister's shoulders. "As you are now dating our soul investor we find it wise to let you have them free of charge."
"What?!" Ginny asked wide eyed before suddenly pointing at Harry and shouting. "I knew it!"
"Just don't tell your mum." Harry said desperately. "I really would like to live to see my seventeenth birthday."
"For a price I think I can remember not to mention anything." Ginny said smiling sweetly at Harry.
"Mention what?" Ron's voice suddenly asked as him and Hermione finally joined the four.
"That Ginny's pregnant." Fred said.
"And Harry's going to be a father." George finished without missing a beat.
"She's what!" Ron cried.
* * * * * *
At three o'clock Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione found themselves back at Hogswarts on the quidditch field with Demin, Delia, Kairi, Sirius, and Remus getting ready to fly.
Harry had borrowed school brooms and willing quidditch members brooms so that every one had at least a decent broom to fly. Except Kairi who had opted to fly with Sirius for her first time out, not that Sirius was complaining about it.
Ten minutes after explaining to the elf's how to handle a broom Harry asked. "So are we ready?"
"Yes!" Delia said excitedly jumping from foot to foot.
"Brilliant!" Harry said. "Let's get to it. Just try not to crash into anyone."
"Aye Aye Captain." Sirius said giving Harry a mock salute before pushing off the ground with a delighted Kairi hanging on behind him. Remus followed shortly after them shaking his head in exasperation.
With some coaxing from Ron, Hermione and him pushed off the ground next, leaving Harry, Delia, Demin, and Ginny.
"Just remember to take good care of Harry for me." Ginny said winking at a giggling Delia before pushing off and soaring up after the others.
Harry turned and smiled at Demin. "Ready?"
"No." Demin said as Delia squealed, "Yes!"
Taken that as his cue Harry secured Delia in-between his arms before lightly pushing off the ground and sailing up into the air faster then the others had with a thrilled Delia in front of him.
It took Harry a few minutes to get use to Delia's weight in front of him, but once he had, he didn't take long in giving Delia the ride of her life.
"Hey rookie." Sirius said as Harry pulled up beside him. "How about a race to the other end of the field?"
Harry raised his eyebrows. "You think you and Kairi are even a match for Delia and I?"
"And what's that suppose to mean." Kairi asked Harry.
"It means." Harry clarified. "That Delia and I are at least 100 pounds lighter then you and are currently riding the better broom."
"Ah, you forget dear Harry, that I have years more experience then you do." Sirius said.
"You may have experience Sirius, but I'm the one with the skills." Harry reminded him.
"Now that's harsh Harry." Sirius said looking mortal wounded. "So are we on?"
"What do you think Delia?" Harry asked his passenger.
"Let's kick their butts!" Delia said sticking her tongue out at the two adults.
"Well you heard the lady." Harry said smiling. "You've got yourself a race."
"Brilliant!" Sirius said. "Loser as to explain to Demin why we took a mad dash across the field."
"Deal." Harry said grinning. "Delia would you do the honors."
Delia nodded, "On your mark, get set, GO!"
They both took off, Harry immediately taking the led. Sirius and Kairi who were currently riding a Numbus 2001 were surprisingly keeping on Harry's tail. Probably do to the fact that Harry wasn't pushing his broom to max speed.
"Come on Harry faster." Delia shouted as Sirius and Kairi pulled along side them.
"All right hold on tight." Harry said as he kicked his broom up a speed at the same time a black object came out of nowhere and shot directly for them.
Delia screamed and Harry dropped several feet within seconds to avoid the object, only realizing too late that Ron was directly below him. Going to fast to stop, Harry quickly jerked his broom to the left, missing Ron by inches, while sending him into a dangerous downward spiral.
Three feet from the ground Harry was able to grasp control of the broom and pull it sharply upwards, though is relief was short lived as the black objected again appeared out of nowhere, clipping him painfully on the side of the head.
"Harry!" Delia screamed in terror. "Harry are you ok?"
Harry reached up wincing as his hand touched his open wound coating his fingers with warm sticky blood.
"I'll be fine." Harry said shaking his head to clear his blurry vision as he heard shouts of alarm and confusion from around him.
"HARRY LOOK OUT!" Ginny voice suddenly shouted from her spot above Harry where she was currently hovering, wand drawn.
Harry's reflexes kicked in immediately as he did a barrel roll flipping him and Delia upside down, just as the object once again whooshed past them missing them by inches.
By now all the others had their wands drawn and were unsuccessfully trying to stop the object with any spell they could think of before it decapitated Harry.
Harry didn't even have time to think what to do next before the object appeared right in front of him coming to a dead stop mere inches from his face.
Harry just stared at the object in confusion before his eyes widen in complete horror.
"Everyone put a shield up and get out of here!" Harry yelled spinning around and speeding away from the objected while throwing up his own shield knowing it was already too late.
The explosion came seconds later as the round ball exploded rocking Hogwarts School grounds to its very core and illuminating the sky. The eruption caught Harry and Delia full force, propelling them both from the Firebolt. Harry still clinging to Delia tightly using his own body and magical shield to protector her as they both went barreling into the quidditch stands.
As long as Harry lived he would never forget Delia's terror filled screams as they both went crashing through the stands and into the wooden beams under the stadium as they made their descent downwards, Harry's shield becoming weaker with each beam they hit.
Harry wasn't sure how long it took for them to finally hit bottom. It seemed like hours, though in reality Harry knew it had only been seconds. All he remembered was the searing pain that shot through is body as he hit the ground. Delia still securely tucked in his arms on top off him sobbing.
"Delia?" Harry asked after sometime. "Delia are you all right?"
"My head hurts." Came the soft muffled reply against his chest.
"Anything else?" Harry asked weakly.
"No." Delia said slowly sitting up and looking around.
"Good." Harry said in relief. "Can you see away to get out of here?"
"Yes." Delia said sniffing. "To your right there's sunlight coming through a hole."
"Good. Do you think you can make your way to it?" Harry questioned his vision becoming blacker by the minute.
"I think so." Delia said shakily. "What about you?"
"I follow after you." Harry said closing his eyes so Delia wouldn't see his lie.
"You lie." Delia said forcefully.
Harry cursed under his breath, he had forgotten the Eleven children could easily spot a lie with their magic.
"Delia I can't move." Harry said softly "But you can. You need to get out of here before the entire structure collapses."
"No." Delia said firmly latching her arms around Harry's neck. "I will not leave you here."
"Delia you have to." Harry said sternly. "Your father can not lose you."
"He can't loose you either." Delia said stubbornly, fresh tears forming in her eyes. "I will not leave without you. I promised Ginny I would look after you."
Harry shook his head, too tried to argue anymore.
Harry vaguely remembered Delia gentle lying her head on his shoulder after a while and starting to sing in old Eleven children song Kairi had sang to her as a child.
As Harry's last state of consciousness slowly slips away from him he prayed, deep from his heart, that Delia would make it out of there alive.
***Would this be a good time to tell you I'm not going to finish this story? . . . . . .. . . . .. Just Kidding! I was just kidding! I just couldn't resist. Anyway I know you people hate cliffhangers, but this chapter was already double what I usually write and I figured that was a great place to leave it.
Next Chapter? Not really sure. I'm leaving on vacation again for four days and then school starts again next week so I'm hoping some where within the next two weeks. But I promise I don't intend on quitting this story ever! I'm going to write it until the glory's end, which won't be for some time seeing how I've still got so much to do and explain. Anyway please be patient the next chapters coming!
Thank you viridis for point out my really stupid mistake. You're right it is Destiny not Silver. I was original going to use Silver but went with Destiny, Duh me! So Stupid. Anyway thanks viridis.