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Rating: PG-13 for now, may change later. Will be slash later in the story: HP/?, JP/LE
Spoilers: Books 1-5. Do not read unless you have FINISHED The Order of the Phoenix.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything except the plot. All Harry Potter™ characters and settings are the sole intellectual property of JK Rowling, Warner Bros. and various others who all aren't connected to me in any way. No money is being made with this fanfiction and no copyright infringement is intended.
Chapter 3: Four Weeks and a Full Moon
Harry tuned out the noise made by the gathering people in the hallway. His attention rested solely on the life-sized portrait of Mrs Black who was still laughing, having not noticed the arrival of Harry. He gestured to Remus, who walked up to Harry with a wary look.
"Remus" began Harry in an urgent whisper. He looked at the older man, his green eyes burning with fire, pleading with curious amber eyes. "Do you trust me?" Remus scrutinised Harry before nodding. "Then I need you to do something for me" and whispered what he needed Remus to do in his ear. Remus nodded once to show his acceptance and moved so that he was directly in front of the laughing Mrs Black. A grim, satisfied smile graced Remus' face before he raised his wand, casting a spell on the portrait before Mrs Black realised anything was awry. The small group of people looked between the stone faced Boy-Who-Lived, a smiling Remus, and a confused Mrs Black. There was a moment of silence before the screams of Mrs Black were heard again.
"HA! IS THAT ALL YOU CAN DO? FILTHY HALF-BREED! CAN'T EVEN CAST A SPELL! YOU CAN'T REMOVE ME FROM THE HOUSE OF MY FATHERS! PATHETIC CREATURE!"
All eyes turned to look at the man in question, who just raised his eyebrow at the portrait. Confused stares followed him as he nodded to Harry and walked away. In turn, Harry moved to stand in front of the portrait once more, hiding the object in his hand behind his body. Wide eyes filled with fear however, were locked on the item, torn between running away from Harry or watching with a morbid curiosity as to what was going to happen.
"SO THE HALFBLOOD-WHO-KILLED HAS RETURNED! READY TO HEAR MORE TRUTHS?"
"Actually, my parents were a witch and a wizard, so I believe that makes me a pureblood, of the Potter line" he drawled lazily as several mouths fell open in amazement. "You seem to be rather ignorant about bloodlines" commented Harry.
"SO WHAT! YOU STILL BEFOUL THE HOUSE OF MY FATHERS! YOU ARE MERELY ANOTHER BLOOD TRAITOR, LIKE THAT ABOMINATION YOU GOT RID OFF! HOPEFULLY YOU'LL GO THE SAME WAY!"
"Maybe I will, maybe I won't. Better to be a 'blood traitor' than to follow Voldemort. It won't matter to you anyway, you're still dead and soon no longer able to worry about who's a blood traitor or not" replied Harry.
"YOU CAN'T GET RID OF ME! THAT TRAITOR TRIED MANY TIMES AND SO DID THE REST OF THE SCUM IN THIS HOUSE! THERE ARE TOO MANY CHARMS ON THIS FRAME. YOU'LL NEVER GET ME OFF THE WALL! HA HA HA!"
"Famous last words" commented Harry as he casually held the knife he had brought from the kitchen in plain view of Mrs Black. He stepped up to the portrait and held the knife against the frame, occasionally tapping. Mrs Black's cries had stopped and she looked on confused until she realised what Harry meant to do. She moved, as if to leave and find safety in another frame, but found to her horror that she couldn't leave.
"Can't cast spells you say? I do believe the one I cast was rather effective, don't you think so Harry?" remarked Remus, who startled Tonks as he came up from behind her, carrying a large chair. Placing the chair in front of the portrait, he moved to stand next to Harry. "You deserve this. You made Sirius' life a misery for too many years, and now you're interfering with our work and our lives. This time it stops!" he growled.
"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE? YOU CAN'T DO THIS TO ME, I FORBID IT!"
"Shut up you horrible hag! You and most of your pureblooded idiotic family thought so highly of themselves? Look at what's happened, they're all dead! The last and best Black is dead" hissed Harry, tears in his eyes as he remembered Sirius.
"Sirius was a good man, someone who went to hell and came out fighting at the other end. He was a man who loved, he was someone worth loving! What are you, but a reminder of the past that should be burnt and forgotten. Your family, your pureblooded family are all dead, and the rest have marked their lives away to a madman, who will end up killing them all! You deserve everything you get. You looked down on Sirius, on muggles and muggle-borns, well SURPRISE! Magic isn't everything! You are no better than other people just because your blood is 'pure'!" Harry spat. "After all, I'm going to get rid of you using a muggle knife! What a pathetic way to end, isn't it?" he finished with a cold smile at the shocked woman in the fame.
With a quick look at Remus, he adjusted the grip on the sharp knife and stabbed it into the painting, resting just inside the bottom left corner of the frame. Pausing to savour the moment and feeling the blood pounding in his veins, Harry grit his teeth before dragging the knife across the bottom of the frame. The knife encountered little resistance, cutting through the paper as if it wasn't there. The cries and howls of rage filled the hallway and from the direction of Harry's back, joyful shouts were heard. With the help of Remus, Harry cut the picture of Mrs Black away from the frame, using the chair to gain height when he reached the top of the frame. As he made his way back down the side, he paused, holding the knife still, ready to cut the last section.
"This is where we part ways. You are no longer welcome here" he pronounced, and jerked his arm, the knife moving easily. Grabbing the painting, he rolled it up and handed it to Remus along with the knife. After receiving a nod, Harry turned around, planning to return to his room and not come out for several days.
To his surprise and horror, he realised that there was a small group watching him. Yes, he had known there were people there, but he had only thought it to be two or three. Not Ron, or Hermione, or any of the others standing there watching him, waiting for something, anything. Panicked green eyes looked to see if he could push through, but Harry quickly realised that there was no way to do so. As the first of many congratulations and questions were offered, Harry turned around and looked at Tonks in desperation. Understanding what he wanted, she pointed her wand as the crowd and told them to move away so they could make their way upstairs or she'd hex them.
"Look, I'm sorry, but I really don't want to talk about it right now. I just need to be alone for a while. Please" he begged. Following Tonks, he quickly passed the confused faces and hurried up the stairs until he reached the door to his room. "Thank you Tonks" he said, smiling in relief. "Could you tell Remus I need some time?"
"Of course!" and with no warning she grabbed him in a fierce hug. "I should thank you, Sirius would be proud!" she sniffed. Seeing his face, she quickly went on before he could disappear, "He really wanted to get rid of her and now you did it. He's probably kicking himself somewhere because he didn't think of cutting her off the wall! Besides, now I can trip over safely, knowing the old bat's not going to be screaming at me anymore!" Tonks finished with a small laugh.
With a small knowing smile, Harry just whispered "Thanks Tonks" before entering his room, closing the door shut behind him.
**********
"Wake Up! Harry, get up!"
Several minutes later, there was another knock on the door. "HARRY! Are you up yet?"
"Haarrrryyyy!"
Harry turned in his sleep, he could hear noises, but he disregarded them. For the last few nights, Harry had actually managed to sleep through the entire night. No nightmares, no reliving past events, his scar hadn't even burned once. It was bliss. Harry wasn't sure what had temporarily stopped the nightmares, but he wasn't about to complain. Remus had commented that he looked far better than he had been recently. Though still paler and thinner than normal, he had lost the purple marks under his eyes and had been eating slightly more. Ever since the confrontation with the portrait of Mrs Black, Harry had felt much better about himself. That was not to say he still wasn't suffering from the events his Fifth Year, or worrying about the Prophesy and what he might have to do. They were still there, but Harry had put them to the side for a few days.
For the last few days, ever since the 'Event' as he had taken to calling it, Harry had tried to avoid the majority of the houses' visitors, not wanting to discuss what he had said or receive the congratulations of getting that thing off the wall. Nor did he want to talk about what she had said regarding his godfather's death. The only people he saw regularly were Remus and Tonks. He had talked to Ron and Hermione only the day before, but the conversation had been strange, stilted. No doubt, they had wanted to talk about what had happened, but Harry had made it clear that he was not willing. Thankfully, his friends had not pushed the issue this time, but he had wondered if he would be so lucky next time. He had also spoken to Moody once in the kitchen, but after receiving several curious glances from whispering Order members, Harry had once again retreated to his room.
"Harry Potter! If you don't get out of bed right now, I swear I'll … actually, I'm not sure, but get up! We're getting your Hogwarts stuff from Diagon Alley today" shouted Remus at the figure in the bed. Harry just pulled the pillow over his head and ignored the frustrated werewolf who was muttering under his breath. "Of all the … I don't believe it, how can he still sleep? Even James would have got up by now. He's doing a bloody Padfoot on me, wants to drive me crazy! Like I don't have enough grey hairs already! Grrr! That's it!" he exclaimed, and pulled the covers off the sleeping teenager.
"Bugger off!"
"Sorry, I don't think of you that way Harry" he chuckled.
"Go away!"
"No!"
"Yes"
"No!"
"Yes"
"No!"
"No"
"Yes! What! Now you're going to get it", shouted Remus. Before he could attack the sleeping teenager, Harry had jumped out of bed and was standing on the opposite side of the bed. "Oh, now he decides to get up! After he makes me shout at him for half a bloody hour!" muttered Remus in a deeply sarcastic voice.
"Talking to yourself is the first sign of madness you know" Harry lightly commented, watching Remus warily.
"You shouldn't tease a werewolf you know"
"I know"
"You're an annoying brat today aren't you?"
"I know"
"Arrghhh! That's it. I'm off! You are being absolutely unbelievable today and I hate you!" Remus exclaimed, throwing his hands in the air.
"Look me in the eye and say that again!" challenged Harry with a smirk on his face.
Remus turned around and glared at Harry. Seeing him smirk, he felt a tug on his lips. He tried to fight it, but unfortunately Harry saw the movement and smiled at him, green eyes sparkling with mischief. Remus gave in and let the smile grow. "You're a brat you know? Your father and Sirius used to do that to me when we were at school" he remembered, shaking his head. "Though it usually took both of them, you've got them beat!"
"Thanks. I'll take it as a compliment" said Harry as he walked out of his room to go to the bathroom.
"It wasn't meant to be!" shouted Remus after his retreating back. Shaking his head, Remus privately thought it was wonderful to see Harry lighten up, even if it ended up only being for a few days. Feeling more light hearted than normal, Remus decided that he would get some revenge.
**********
"REMUS!!!!!"
Harry's shout was heard in the kitchen where Remus had sat down for breakfast. Placating Molly by having a couple of pieces of toast with his morning coffee, Remus lifted his head to meet several eyes that were staring at him.
"What did you do Wolf-man?" asked Tonks.
"He sounded quite pissed off" remarked Ron.
"Ronald Weasley! Mind your language!" his mother reprimanded, while Tonks and Remus fought to hide their smiles. Hermione rolled her eyes before fixing Remus with her 'McGonagall Look'. Remus shivered, remembering the glare all too well, and wondered whether Hermione had practised in front of the mirror until she perfected it.
"Yes Hermione?"
"Professor, what did you do? You didn't do anything to make him … you know?" she asked.
"No, I don't know 'you know'" evaded Remus.
"He's not going to be in a temper today, will he? I mean, what with going to Diagon Alley" she worried.
"Perhaps" he answered with a wicked glint in his eyes.
"Wolf-man! What have you done?" quizzed a blonde-haired Tonks. "You got that look!"
Plastering an innocent expression on his face, Remus replied with a simple "Nothing".
"Oh come on Remus, you really want to tell us", she pleaded. "Do you want me to go shopping with Harry without knowing why he's going to be glaring at you all day? Please?"
Remus looked around and saw five curious faces watching him, waiting for an explanation. He was about to tell them what had happened this morning when the kitchen door slammed open. Turning around to face the door, they saw a red faced Harry standing in the doorway. Harry glared at him, ignoring the others sat at the table, or more likely, not noticing them. Remus finally let the smirk appear on his face, "Payback's a bitch, isn't it Harry?" he asked.
Focusing most of his attention on the irate teenager, Remus was only dimly aware of the scandalised gasps from Molly and Hermione, and the laughter from Tonks, Ron, and Ginny. Neville on the other hand, was looking fearfully between his ex-Professor and roommate.
Harry felt his teeth ground against each other. He couldn't believe Remus, no actually he could. He knew better than most that underneath the serious façade lay a mischievous personality, but this had gone too far. "Yes I suppose she can be, but as you can see" started Harry, waving his hand across his body "I seem to have found something to wear … no thanks to you!"
"Oh, but Harry! I thought my choice of outfit was, how shall I put it, quite inspiring!" exclaimed Remus.
With his hands on his hips, Harry frowned. "Inspiring? What the hell are you on Remus? Has Snape done something to your potion this time around?"
"Nope" replied Remus, knowing he was winding Harry up even more, but he thought it was well deserved for the grief he had been put through earlier that morning. With an amused glance at the captivated audience, he turned his attention back to Harry, whose face was turning a deeper shade of red.
"Then what in the name of Merlin were you thinking when you left me those bloody leather trousers to wear today!" he fumed, "to Diagon Alley of all places. I can't believe you took every single piece of clothing I had, apart from those trousers and this shirt! Even the clothes the Dursleys gave me! Are you MAD Remus?"
"No, quite the opposite" replied a grinning werewolf. "I was wondering if I'd be able to get you to wear them, but alas, you found those jeans from somewhere. Where did you find them, I thought I'd grabbed all of your clothes".
Ignoring the question, Harry instead asked, "Is this about this morning? Payback?"
"Yes. Never try to outsmart a Maurader"
"Aren't I immune, you know? Son of a Marauder?"
"Maybe"
"Grrr!"
"Careful there Harry, I'm the wolf!"
Harry looked at the smiling werewolf, eyes bright with amusement, even if it was aimed at him, and he decided that it was worth the embarrassment to see him happy, if only for a while. With a huff, Harry stalked over to the kitchen table and sat down across from Remus and next to Tonks. "You better watch out Remus" he hissed so that only Tonks and Remus could hear what he said, "I may get my revenge yet". In a louder voice, he complained "What IS it with everybody and those leather bloody trousers! You're all mad! I already said I'm not going to wear them, so leave off!"
Harry grabbed a piece of toast and got up, leaving the kitchen that was filled with his friends' laughter and smiled softly at the sound. With a parting shot he shouted, "Hey Wolf-man, are you ready yet? I've got to get my school stuff sometime today you know!" and ran back to his room to grab his cloak and moneybag.
**********
Harry looked around the interior of the Leaky Cauldron, a place he had not seen for some time, before returning his attention to his friends. Remus was the last to appear from the fireplace and as soon as he dusted off his robes, the group made their way to the back of the pub. Mrs Weasley tapped the third brick from the left above the dustbin and Harry watched as the archway opened, finally revealing Diagon Alley.
Compared to the few times Harry had been there, Diagon Alley did not seem quite as busy as it usually was. Perhaps it was because Harry normally bought his school supplies near the end of the summer holidays. This time, they were buying their supplies in the middle of August, the belief being that Voldemort would not anticipate Harry appearing in public this early. Harry could see the lines of tension on Mrs Weasley's face as well as several other shoppers. He supposed that now the return of Voldemort was public, people were beginning to suspect Dark Wizards of being anywhere and everywhere. Harry had been slightly disgruntled not to be doing his shopping with Ron and Hermione, but perked up when he realised his guards would be Remus and Tonks. If there was an attack while they were shopping, the older two were supposed to get Harry to safety. Harry did not want to tempt fate and so shook his head to clear his thoughts.
"Anything wrong dear?" asked a worried Mrs Weasley.
"Sorry. No, nothing. Just shaking the marbles about" Harry answered.
Mrs Weasley gave Harry another worried look, but Harry had become used to them by now and so shrugged it off. Instead, he waved off his friends. Hestia Jones accompanied his best friends as they walked off in the direction of Flourish and Blotts, on the insistence of Hermione. Neville and Ginny followed Mrs Weasley whose first visit was Ollivanders, presumably to get a new wand for Neville. Harry remembered that Neville's old wand had been broken the night Sirius … anyway, Harry believed that Neville's wand-work would greatly improve this coming year, now that he would get a wand that was attuned to him rather than his father.
Harry's first stop was Gringotts, where Bill Weasley met the three shoppers. Tonks remained in the marble hall with the red-haired wizard while Harry and Remus followed a goblin to the carts. When they had reached Harry's vault Remus gave a small start, but upon being questioned, he replied that it was nothing just old memories. Harry filled his moneybag with Galleons and they returned to the cart, both wizards enjoying the wild ride back to the surface. Making their way back to Tonks, Harry noticed that she was still talking to Bill.
"So Harry! I hear you had an eventful morning?" asked Bill, smirking.
Not wanting to be rude, Harry smiled pleasantly. "Yes I did, but Remus didn't manage to get me in the end, but I will be getting revenge!"
"I've heard about your promise. I'm hurt" he sniffed, affecting a hurt tone.
"Bill! Really, I'm sorry. I didn't mean it like that. It's a nice gift and all, but … I just don't think … well, it's just not. Merlin! Look, sorry, I've got to go! Got lots of shopping to do and Remus says we shouldn't stay longer than necessary. Gotta run! See you!" he replied, and with that he dragged a chuckling Remus out of the door and back into Diagon Alley. He never saw Bill wink at Tonks, who had hurried out after them.
"Of all the things! I can't believe it. Someone out there really does not like me! Remus! What was I supposed to say?" panicked Harry as they walked towards Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions. "Thanks so much for going to the trouble of getting me a present, but what made you think I would, or even could, wear leather trousers!" he said sarcastically. "It's not as if I'd look any good wearing them!" he said as he entered the shop.
"Well Sir, we can try and doing something about that for you? How can I help you dear?" asked Madam Malkin, who had obviously heard the tail end of Harry's rant.
Taking pity on the embarrassed teenager, Remus informed the witch that Harry was in need of a new set of school robes and maybe some everyday robes or clothes. Tonks was browsing in the shop while Remus and Harry sorted out the clothes and payment. Both wizards missed the look of delight on Tonks face as she found something, and soon enough, the clothes they had purchased were bundled up and the trio left the store.
Next Harry made the usual stops to buy quills, inks, and parchments before visiting the apothecary's. Harry had to buy refills for all the basic potion ingredients as well as buying those used in NEWT level potions. After they had left the store, Remus informed Harry that they should visit the Opticians. Harry was silent as he followed Tonks, remembering that this was Sirius' final gift to him. He was deep in thought when he was suddenly jerked back by the high pitched chattering of a young witch. Looking around he found himself in the store and quickly realised the witch was an employee, although currently she was more interested in the Boy-Who-Lived rather than the potential customer. Scowling, he asked "excuse me miss, but I have an open appointment and I'd like to be seen as soon as possible. I have other things to be getting on with today, so if you don't mind?"
The young witch blustered before leaving to presumably get the Healer. Half an hour later, Harry left the store. He now had his old glasses as well as two new pairs with a more accurate prescription. Tonks had insisted that he should get black rectangular frames, while Remus had argued that the gold oval frames would suit him better. Wanting to avoid taking sides, Harry took both frames as well as a pair of clear contact lenses. Luckily they were magical, and so could be worn for much longer, and were spelled to clean themselves automatically. Useful since Harry could not perform magic during the holidays.
The next stop for the three was the bookstore, Flourish and Blotts. Remus left to find The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 6 by Miranda Goshawk as well as Harry's coursebook for Care of Magical Creatures and Potions. Tonks went off in search for the books required for NEWT level Transfiguration and Charms. Harry instead headed for the DADA titles. He quickly located the coursebook for that year and started to browse the titles, looking for anything that interested him. Finding a book that was aimed at using Transfiguration during duelling, Harry found his guards and paid for the books.
"Well that's it. Have you got everything Harry?" asked Tonks, as she checked the street for any suspicious behaviour.
"Actually, I've almost spent my money already so I need to go back to Gringotts. I was also thinking of getting a second wand? You know, a duelling wand" he said, looking at Remus.
Luckily, Remus understood what Harry was referring to and agreed. They quickly agreed to split up. Tonks returned to Gringotts with Harry's key saying she would meet them at the wand-makers, while Harry and Remus made their way to Ollivanders. Once the three had completed their purchases, they walked over to Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes, Fred and George's newly opened shop. After spending a few minutes talking to the Twins and checking the others had flooed back safely, Harry managed to drag Remus away from one of the prank displays and they flooed back to Grimmald Place.
**********
Harry was pacing his room. It had only been a couple of days since his trip to Diagon Alley and he had unwrapped all of his new purchases. To his delight, Harry found that the new glasses (he was currently wearing the ones Tonks had insisted on) meant he no longer had to squint to see things in the distance and his eyes did not tire so quickly when reading. To his horror, he found that Tonks had managed to slip in a surprise as well. It seemed that she had bought him a wide leather belt with a platinum snake buckle. 'It's a nice thing' Harry thought, considering all his belts were too large having previously belonged to the male Dursleys, but for the note attached to it:
Dear Harry,
Saw this when shopping, thought you could use it. Would go fantastically with those killer leather pants! When do I get to see you in them?
Love, Tonks
'Never if I get a bloody choice' Harry had thought viciously. 'Everyone's mad! Off their rocker. Hasn't it occurred to anyone I'd look stupid wearing leather trousers?'
It was the full moon tonight, and Harry had been feeling nervous all day. Remus had looked more and more tired as he had neared the full moon. Remus had taken the Wolfsbane Potion about an hour ago before retiring to his room, waiting for the moon to rise.
As Harry paced, his mind raced, filled with arguments and counter-arguments. It was stupid, foolhardy … I would be a friend … It was my fault … Remus would kill me … If not literally tonight, then when he realised the full consequences of what I'd done … I would be unprotected … It was dangerous … I want to help, in any way I can … Help ease the pain, the loneliness.
Although the positives were vastly outnumbered by the negatives, Harry felt they carried more weight to them. He would be there for his friend. Remus had taken the Potion all week, so as he had explained in Harry's third year, he would keep his human mind after he transformed, he would be a harmless wolf. Harry would wait until the moon had risen, and check the Potion had definitely worked before entering the room. Snape may be a git, but he knows how to make potions, Harry admitted. 'It's my fault that Remus doesn't have anyone anymore. It's the least I could do for him' he rationalised to himself.
A little more than an hour later, Harry found himself outside Remus' room. He listened for signs of the werewolf, but he heard nothing. Taking a deep breath, he knocked on the door, waiting to hear a response of sorts and after a moment, he heard a small whine from the other side of the door. Harry had his hand on the doorknob, when a voice made him jump.
"Harry! What in the name of Merlin do you think you are doing!" exclaimed Tonks.
"Shhh! Keep it down! We don't need to tell the entire house" he hissed back.
"I swear, if you don't tell me what you were going to do. No scratch that! I know what you were about to do! What I don't understand is why? What were you thinking Harry?" asked Tonks, her voice taut with suppressed anger. "If you don't tell me now, I'll hex you!"
"Tonks! Calm down!" Harry replied, his hands in the air trying to placate the irate witch. "Look, it's Remus in there. He took the Potion all week. He's not dangerous. I just want to keep him company tonight, so he has a friend there. It's my fault…" his voice cracking as he thought about Sirius. "It's my fault he's got to do it alone now. I won't be able to stay with him when I'm at Hogwarts. I just wanted … I need him to know that he's not alone. He has to know. I want to be there. I know he's safe, it's not the werewolf in that room, it's just Remus. You have to trust me" finished Harry, begging Tonks to understand.
Tonks still looked angry, but her eyes had softened as she listened to Harry. "But Harry, for starters, what if something went wrong? You're not supposed to perform magic. You know that. How would you defend yourself from the wolf?"
"It's Remus in there. He wouldn't do anything to me!" Harry retorted.
"Fine, then what about Remus? Did you even ask him?" she asked.
"Well … no. What do you think he would have said? No. I didn't want him to know; he thinks its something he should suffer alone. The only people who've ever been with him were my Dad, Sirius, and that rat-traitor!" Pausing to take a deep breath, Harry continued, "Yes, I'm taking a risk, but it's my decision to make. I know what I'm getting into, and if it seemed like Remus would bite me, I'd never have considered this! He's one of the kindest, gentlest and loving men I know, so what if he's a bit hairy once a month! He's letting the stereotypes about werewolves rule his life and he shouldn't. He should be able to have his friends with him!"
"He's not going to like it" stated Tonks.
"I know, but I hope he understands why I need to do it, and why he needs it" said Harry sadly.
"Well, considering he probably heard us arguing through the door, I would expect so" she said. Taking her wand, she disabled the wards on the room before casting Alohomora on the lock. Placing her hand on the doorknob, she asked a stupefied Harry, "Coming?"
"Wha- what? You're going in?" he questioned.
Tonks gave a small chuckle. "Did you honestly think I was going to let you in without any protection of some sort. Even if Remus were safe, he'd skin me if I just let you go ahead. He probably will anyway for good measure, and then send both of us to St Mungos! Besides you made a good point, he's our friend, and we should support each other, through the highs and lows, even if it's once every four weeks".
Tonks cautiously opened the door, ready to slam it shut if necessary, her wand ready in her other hand. Peeking through the gap, she noticed Remus sitting on his haunches in front of the door. Harry followed her in and shut the door behind him. Looking at the wolf she sighed, "You heard it all didn't you Remus?"
Her only answer was the wolf tilting his head. Slowly, as if Remus did not want to startle the humans in the room, he got up onto his paws and took a couple of steps towards them before stopping. Nose in the air, he seemed to sniff the air. Once he had made sure of their scents, he walked back over to lie in front of the fireplace, his head resting on his front paws, the amber eyes of the wolf reflecting the dance of the flames.
"You're not best pleased with us are you Moony?" asked Harry, deciding to stay where he was standing for the time being. Remus gave him a look that seemed to say You got that right!
"Look Remus", began Harry "I know you don't like this, but let us help you. We want to be here. You wouldn't hurt us, we know that, do you? Do you trust yourself enough?"
Remus stared at them with defeated eyes and snorted through his snout as if defeated. Harry and Tonks took this to be an acceptance of sorts and approached the fire. Settling down next to the wolf, Harry took the opportunity to examine Moony. He had light-brown fur covering his body and tail, but there were areas of grey, much like Remus' hair Harry mused. Amber eyes reflected the fire, and the long jaws were closed thankfully, hiding the sharp teeth that Harry knew to be there.
Harry slowly extended a hand towards Moony while Tonks watched on warily. Seeing that Moony was not going to attack ('Of course not, it's Remus in there!' Harry berated himself) he scratched behind the wolf's ear. Obviously, Moony liked the sensations because he started wagging his tail and both Harry and Tonks smiled in relief. In response, Moony gave them a wolfish grin as Tonks started to stroked his back.
"You know" she commented lightly, "he's really enjoying this. Mind you he should! It's not everyday you get two young people like us, touching you up Remus! Enjoy it while it lasts! Cause it ain't happening when you're human again Wolf-man!"
As the night progressed, Harry and Tonks talked about many things, told jokes and Harry recounted his first four years at Hogwarts and his many adventures with Ron and Hermione for his companions. Although Moony was unable to talk, he expressed his thoughts and feelings in many other ways, although Harry felt that Moony licking his face had gone a bit too far! Eventually, all three began to tire and so Harry and Tonks lay down on Remus' bed, while Moony curled up at their feet. Harry and Tonks chatted for a while longer after Moony fell asleep.
Just before sleep claimed them, Harry whispered to the Metamorphagus, "You know Tonks, I wish you could have been my older sister. I mean, after all, you've met Dudley and well, he's not really brother material. It would be nice you know. I'm sorry, I don't mean to … I'm not-, you don't have to say anything. I understand if you don't…"
Tonks smiled softly at the younger wizard. "Yes, I know what you're saying. Dudley is a bully isn't he? Seriously though, I think you'd have made a great older brother. You'd be protective enough and if you forget about the whole Voldemort wanting to kill you deal, well life would be fun. You'd have had a great time playing with a younger brother or sister even. It's a pity you can't".
Harry remained silent so she carried on. "If you want, you can be my 'little Bro'. I don't mind at all, in fact, it could be fun! I'd get to tease you, and make fun of you and I'd get away with it because you wouldn't curse your older sister, now would you?" she chuckled.
"Can I change my mind?" wondered Harry, a small smile on his lips.
"Nope, no can do. You're my little Bro! The pain in my side!" she laughed. "Hey! I can tease you mercilessly about those trousers now! Oh, oh, and I can tell anyone you fancy all your little secrets! Or if someone goes out with you, I can threaten them to treat you right or I'll hex them so hard they'll spend the week with Pomfry! I can't wait!"
Harry grinned, understanding what Tonks was really saying. "Thanks Sis. But don't think I won't get you back if you mention the trousers to anyone!"
Tonks laughed and soon enough the two fell asleep. They were awoken once the moon had set when Remus transformed back. Helping him back into bed, the two decided to remain where they were, after all they may as well get shouted at by Remus together, rather than somewhere else more public.
The sight of Tonks, Harry, and Remus curled up together, asleep on the large bed was what greeted Mrs Weasley the next morning as she checked up on Remus after the transformation. She frowned briefly, wondering where the other two had come from, before smiling at the sight. She closed the door, letting the three sleep some more, before returning to the kitchen to start making breakfast for the children.
**********
Harry was sitting on Ron's bed, reading his Potions coursebook for the upcoming year. It wasn't something he was enjoying and he had wondered whether any of it would eventually stick in his mind, but he didn't want to give Snape any extra opportunities to ridicule him more than necessary. Not that he needed any reason to, Harry thought sarcastically. His concentration was broken by Ron running back into the room, saying that the Order meeting was about to begin and that he and Ginny were going to try and listen in using the Extendable Ears. Harry waved him off but before he could start reading again, Neville coughed and flushed as he asked him, "Harry, I was wondering, well … when did you start calling T-Tonks 'Sis'?"
"Oh, that's okay Neville. I don't mind. It was only just last week, the night of the full moon in fact" Harry answered with a soft smile.
"Oh. I mean, I know you don't have any … well you're an only child like me. I suppose, it's just, why?" Neville replied.
"I'm not sure, I just asked. It was something rolling around in my mind" Harry started. He remembered that night, sitting in the firelight with Moony and Tonks. It was like the outside world didn't matter for one night. No pressure, no expectations. Remus, one of his Dad's best friends, who saw Harry for Harry, not the Boy-Who-Lived. Could empathise with the fact that both of them were marked by a curse that shaped people's views of them. Tonks? Well, Tonks was Tonks to Harry. She was funny and lively. She had a wonderful talent that some feared and she could be clumsy. She escaped from her family's history and her exuberance lifted Harry's spirit. She loved to tease him, yet seemed protective of him. "Remus had fallen asleep, I don't think he was feeling upto this full moon because, well because Sirius was gone, but it's not like he had a choice. So Tonks and I just chatted some. It was a silly thing, but she thought it would be fun I guess. It's our 'thing'. I can't explain it well, it just is" he finished softly.
Neville smiled more as a response than understanding, but Hermione who had been listening silently spoke up, "I thought you did quite well Harry. It's a nice thing".
"Yes. Yes it is. Was useful the next morning when Remus woke up!" Harry remembered.
"Wait a minute, what did you just say? Oh Harry, did you just say you spent the night with Professor Lupin, on the night of his transformation!" she asked horrified while Neville turned white. "That's incredibly dangerous! What if something were to go wrong, you could have been hurt, or worse!"
"Hermone! I'm fine!" shouted Harry, an angry expression on his face. "Yes it could have been dangerous, but it's Remus, he was safe. You know the Potion makes him harmless! It was my choice and I didn't do anything wrong!"
"I know it was Professor Lupin, but oh Harry. I can't imagine he was happy about it either. I can't stop you, but please be careful. I'm just worried about you", she said.
Ignoring the latter comment, Harry instead gave a dry chuckle. "Not happy, try livid! Tonks and I were still sleeping when he woke up and remembered the night's events. He shouted at us for about 10 minutes, but his yelling was well, not as effective, as I'm sure you can imagine, we were all still in bed. Then Tonks just confused the poor bloke by calling me Bro". Harry snorted before carrying on, "Remus just sat there watching Tonks and I wind each other up, before muttering something about a bad potion. I think he understood why we did it, even if he's not happy about it, besides I think it helped a bit. Hermione, you should have seen him, Moony's not a bad looking wolf, we just had some rather bad luck last time".
"If you want to call it that" Hermione retorted, obviously remembering the events at the Shrieking Shack in their Third year.
As the three once again lapsed into silence, Ron stalked back into the room. "Mom's put up warding spells again, Ginny's keeping watch though" he sulked. "Mind you, it looked like a full meeting. I think something big happened. McGonagall looked more tense than usual, Tonks seemed grim, and Snape just scowled at everyone as he rushed in. I wonder what happened?"
Harry gave a pursed his lips before replying in a dark tone, "Nothing nice I assure you"
"Do you know something?" asked Ron eager for any information.
"No, not really. I couldn't sleep for most of the night; my scar was burning quite badly. I woke Tonks so she could go to the Ministry and she stayed up with me for a while" he answered.
Ron, Hermione and Neville looked at Harry, worry evident on their faces. Hermione asked "You're not still getting visions from V-Voldemort are you?"
Ron and Neville flinched at the Dark Lord's name but looked to Harry for an answer. "No, I can block my mind from his now, no thanks to that greasy git!" said Harry, but continued in a sad voice, green eyes shining with unshed tears, "No, the scar hurt because of the other thing".
"The other thing?" questioned Neville.
"The scar hurts you when You-Know-Who's near you? But- but he couldn't have been near Headquarters, Dumbledore said it's safe!" Ron rationalised.
"Ron! Obviously, he doesn't mean that! He means … that there were…" trailed off Hermione.
"He was killing last night" finished Harry in a dull tone. "Lots of muggles I suppose".
Ron paled, while Hermione chewed her lip, obviously thinking about what Harry just said. Neville, however, was trembling and Harry thought back to the Prophesy that had shaped both of their lives. Harry and the Headmaster to his knowledge, were the only ones who knew the entire thing, but Harry wondered whether Neville perhaps should know, to know why his parents were possibly tortured, why they were confined in St Mungos.
All four teenagers looked uneasily at each other and the air was thick with tension. Sometime later Ginny came in, saying the meeting had ended and the members of the Order were leaving the meeting, before leaving again with Ron to try and gain any information. Fred and George suddenly Apparated into the room with a loud crack!
"Big business going down with You-Know-Who" said Fred.
"Yeah, you should see McGonagall, I think her lips disappeared, they were that thin" George added.
"Yeah. I wish we could join, but Mom's still stopping us somehow! I don't understand. We've left school and we're of age!" whined Fred.
"I'm sure we'll find out sooner or later. If Harry was right, it'll probably be in the Daily Prophet tomorrow" Hermione stated.
Both Weasleys turned to face Harry, who flushed under their stares. "What do you know that we don't? No offence Harry, but you're younger than us" Fred complained.
Harry stayed silent. He couldn't tell the Twins, Ron and Hermione, Remus, Tonks, anyone, about what he knew. He just couldn't risk the information falling into Voldemort's hands. It was why he learnt Occumancy. It was his fault Sirius died; it was his burden, his guilt, and his secret.
"Shut up Fred! It's Harry, of course he knows. Do you want to be in his shoes? It was probably his scar anyway, not the Order" said George, admonishing a surprised Fred.
"Yeah, sorry Harry. It's just annoying, not knowing a thing. Anyway, we noticed Snape down there, that greasy git. Hey, can you imagine his face if one of our Weasleys' Wildfire Whiz-bangs went off in his lesson? Or the Portable Swamp?" with gleaming eyes the Twins turned to face Harry. "Dear Investor…"
"No!" interrupted Harry. "No, no, no! I am not doing that for you. I actually want to survive Potions! Besides, Snape will be looking for any reason to kick me out of his class, considering I didn't get an Outstanding in the Potions OWLs and Professor McGonagall had to get me into the class. Find some other sucker".
Grinning, George began, "Snape wouldn't take you in his NEWT level class because you didn't get an Outstanding?"
"McGonagall got you into the class" added Fred.
"What did Snape say about that?" they asked in unison.
"I wouldn't know, nothing good I imagine. McGonagall told me I was to attend Potions classes in my Hogwarts letter" replied Harry.
"Oh well Brother dear, we'll have to find someone else to help us prank Snape", Fred said, before turning to face Neville.
"Uhh … n-no" stuttered Neville, turning deathly white at the thought of having to prank the intimidating Potions Master.
"No, probably not" said George kindly. The Twins looked each other in the eye before turning as one to face the only other person in the room, Hermione.
Hermione looked up from her Transfiguration coursebook and arched her eyebrow. "You are asking me to prank a Professor?"
"No" laughed George.
"Not Little Miss Prefect" Fred added.
"Never would have considered it" George finished.
"Good" answered Hermione in a dry voice.
"Pity" muttered Fred under his breath.
"Maybe you could visit Ron and Ginny at school and do something then" suggested Harry.
Fred and George considered the idea before identical evil grins appeared on their faces.
"Oooo, I have such a good plan" started George, but he never got to finish because the sounds of shouting voices drifted up the stairs, as Ron and Ginny ran into the room.
"Harry!" panted Ginny. "What have you done?"
"What? I haven't done anything … at least I don't think so" he replied bewildered.
"You must have Harry. He's having a fit down there, I swear" laughed Ron.
"Who?"
Ron and Ginny opened their mouths to reply, but were cut off by a very loud shout.
"POTTER!"
Ron and Ginny said in unison, "Him".
Neville paled further, while the Twins snickered.
"Glad to see you're enjoying the fact that I'm about to get yelled at for something I don't even know about!" Harry said sarcastically.
"Sorry mate! It's just, well, no-one can get him to shout like that except you. Seems like you have a skill there", Fred gasped out between laughter.
"POTTER! GET DOWN HERE AT ONCE!"
"Lucky me" muttered Harry, getting off the bed and slowly making his way out of the room.
"Come on George, we have to see this!" shouted Fred as he followed Harry to the door. Behind them followed the others, all obviously wanting to see what Snape wanted this time. They stood at the top of the stairs, hidden by shadows, as Harry slowly made his way down, privately repeating the mantra, 'I have done nothing wrong. Don't lose your temper with Snape'.
Reaching the bottom, Harry glanced at the empty frame where Mrs Black once stood. He was even more grateful now that he had got rid of the old cow, since having to put up with Snape and Mrs Black would have probably led to hearing loss. Looking for the Professor in question, Harry saw him, standing with Professor McGonagall and Remus.
Snape was his usual greasy self, with his black robes wrapped around him like a barrier. His face was contorted with anger, and two small spots of red were found high on his cheeks. Professor McGonagall looked quite flustered, though also quite disapproving at something or, more likely, someone. Harry's heart sank, maybe he had done something wrong he thought, and now Snape and McGonagall were going to tell him off. A quick glance at Remus gave him some hope and courage and with a deep breath to calm his thoughts, he looked Snape in the eye and asked quite politely, "Yes Professor. You bellowed?"
"It seems that your Head of House had decided to play favourites again. After all, perfect Potter wants to be an Auror, so why don't we all bow to his whims!" he sneered. Harry saw McGonagall's lips grow narrower, the frown deepening, while Remus made an aborted motion to move towards Snape.
"Circumstances have been such that I will allow you into my classroom Potter, but if you make the slightest mistake, or if your grades start to fall, I will have no hesitation whatsoever in throwing you out of my class" threatened Snape.
"Understood sir!" snapped Harry, having expected something similar anyway. Harry saw a small smile on Remus' face and the glimmer of pride in McGonagall's eyes. He saw Tonks approach from behind Remus, a curious expression on her face. Seeing Harry and Snape, her face shifted to a look of concern.
Quietly, so not to attract the attention of Snape, she whispered to Remus "What in the name of Merlin is Snape shouting about?"
"Potions lessons. McGonagall had to bribe him so he'd let Harry into his class. Draco Malfoy gets to do Transfiguration and Harry gets into Potions".
"McGonagall only asks for Exceed Expectations!" came from an astonished Tonks.
"Amusing isn't it" replied Remus before returning his attention to Snape, who was still threatening Harry with regards to his behaviour in Potions.
"… and the Headmaster has asked me to resume your Occumancy lessons. Yes Potter, Occumancy. Stop frowning boy, it's not like I want to teach you anymore than you want to have the lessons. Especially not after that incident last year. I have not forgotten that Potter!"
"Severus", McGonagall reprimanded, looking slightly at unease. "Back to business please".
"But sir-" Harry started to say, before being interrupted by the angry Potions Master.
"Shut up and listen Potter! You will attend these lessons and I should hope you actually try this time! I shall arrange for some remedial Potion lessons for you" he snarled at the pale faced teenager.
Harry's self-control broke and he took several steps towards Snape. "What do you mean remedial potions Professor?" he sneered back. "If I'm taking that when I gained an 'Exceed Expectations' in my Potions exams, what the hell do you call lessons with Crabbe and Goyle? 'Potions for Dimwits'? Stuff your remedial potions and stuff your bloody Occumancy lessons. You were a pathetic teacher anyway" he snapped back and turned around ready to go back upstairs.
Professor McGonagall, Remus and Tonks stood shocked at Harry's words. Upstairs, the small huddle of teenagers were divided between shock and awe, already being used to Harry's mood swings and hot temper.
Snape blinked. Once … twice … before sneering with a voice dripping with contempt, "So, the Golden Boy of Gryffindor thinks so highly of himself that he doesn't need any help blocking his mind from the Dark Lord's influence. You somehow managed it once and now you think you're invincible? Pity about Black I suppose. But then again, like father, like son, arrogant to the end".
With that, Snape raised his wand and aimed it at Harry, who was still within striking range. Harry felt a strange burning sensation at his throat and stiffened. Before the other adults could react, Snape had started the incantation, "Legim-"
Snape did not get a chance to finish his incantation, because Harry had fallen to the floor, before extending his right leg and using his foot to hook behind Snape's left knee. Harry jerked his leg causing Snape to fall onto his knees. Harry was running on instinct, one to protect himself. He did not hear the shouts of his friends or the horrified gasps of the adults above the pounding of heart, as his blood raced with adrenaline. Getting to his feet quickly, he grabbed Snape's wrist, the one holding the wand, and twisted slightly, causing the shocked Professor to drop his wand. At the back of his mind, Harry noted that he shouldn't be able to do this. He was only a teenager, one that had not been eating regularly, nor sleeping recently. Snape was an adult and had a larger build to him. It must be shock.
Quickly returning to reality, Harry found that he had manoeuvred Snape's arm behind his back. As Snape made to grab his wand with his free hand, Harry hissed in the older man's ear "I wouldn't do that Snape!" Releasing the arm, Harry moved away from Snape.
Green eyes bored into him, filled with a fire from deep within. "You deserved that Snape. What made you think you can attack someone like that? An unarmed wizard who had his back to you? An underage wizard! One who can't perform magic during the holidays!" he snarled. "What kind of behaviour is that?
"Do you really hate my father that much? Do you hate me that much? You know what? Yes, James Potter was a bully, he was arrogant, and yes he embarrassed you and many others who knows how many times! So what? You weren't perfect either!" he carried on, voice increasing in volume. Seeing Snape's face grow paler, Harry continued on regardless.
"Yes, I've heard about what you did to my father, and to Sirius and Remus as well. You were never an innocent! The difference is that my Dad grew up and you haven't! Instead now, you terrorise students who aren't even half your age, while you let the Slytherins get away with near-murder! No wonder they think they can walk over anyone and anything, it's not like you stop them!
"I may look like James Potter, but I am not my father as you remember him! Can you accept that? I'll tell you now, don't you ever dare attack me like that again", he threatened in a lower harsher voice, "and I still don't need your Occumancy lessons, Snivellus!"
With that Harry turned around and stalked back up the stairs to his room, his face devoid of any emotion, green eyes cold and hard. The group of teenagers at the top did not try to stop Harry, all having a healthy respect for their lives. Instead, they focussed their attention back onto the four adults, who were staring dumbly after Harry's retreating figure.
"You know Snape, you're lucky I'm not going to curse you right now for that incredibly stupid stunt you just pulled!" growled Remus, amber eyes glinting dangerously.
"What about Potter? He physically attacked me!" scowled Snape.
"After you threatened, no, actually started to curse an unarmed opponent! A student!" shouted Tonks, appalled. "What were you thinking? Merlin! Were you thinking at all Snape!"
"What? He was arrogant enough to believe he had mastered Occumancy! The idiotic boy could hardly close his mind to me last year and with the demise of Black, well the evidence speak for itself!" he sneered.
Tonks and McGonagall both had to hold back Remus, who had narrowed his eyes and curled his lips at Snape's words, looking very much like the wolf he transformed into once a month. "You don't know Harry, Snape! You can't see past his looks" Remus spat angrily at the sneering Potions Master. "He didn't learn a damn thing from you last year. Did you even try to teach it to him properly? He's doesn't talk much about those lessons, but I can see it in his eyes.
"He learnt how to shield his mind this summer. He knows the consequences of what happened Snape! He lives with it each day, from when he wakes up 'til he goes to sleep. And even then, it plagues him in his sleep! You've never sat by his side, watching him cry out in his sleep, begging Sirius to forgive him! He knows dammit!"
"I'm afraid I'll have to let the Headmaster know of what happened here tonight Professor Snape!" snapped McGonagall. "Mr Potter is not a Gryffindor Golden Boy as you describe him. He has the makings of an excellent Auror, and to do that, he needs Potions. I assure you now, he will be attending Potions whatever your feelings are on the matter. I will also keep to the terms of our agreement. I must say though, I have never seen such behaviour from a Professor" she said angrily. "You really must do something about your behaviour regarding Mr Potter, preferably before term starts".
"And what about Potter's behaviour tonight" asked Snape. "He insulted my teaching methods. What of his punishment?"
"Do you have any idea of what Harry has to go through? Do you know that he had no sleep whatsoever last night" replied Tonks scathingly. "He was up all night, his scar burning continuously. He told me each time Voldemort cast a Cruciatus curse, and every time he killed. Oh god, it was horrible! He was in so much pain. And then, tonight, you insult him and his father. You mock him about Sirius' death. WHAT DID YOU EXPECT! Him to roll over and just take that kind of abuse? Harry's right, you're pathetic! I can't look- just go away! I'm going to check on my little brother!" and with that she hurried up the stairs.
Remus stared at Snape, who had finally put away his wand and had gathered his robe about him. "I think you better leave Snape. You're not welcome here tonight. I can't guarantee your safety if you stay" he ground out between gritted teeth.
"Gladly" snorted Snape, stalking out of the front door.
"I'm sorry Minerva to leave you, but I'd like to check on Harry" apologised Remus.
"That's perfectly fine. Give him my apologies for Professor Snape's behaviour would you? I'll just check on Molly and assure her everything is, well, as well as it can be I suppose, before I floo back to Hogwarts" replied McGonagall.
Remus walked up the stairs, ignoring the wide-eyed teenagers and walked over to Harry's door. Knocking, he called out "It's Remus. Can I come in?"
The door opened, and Remus entered. He found Harry sitting on the bed, obviously meditating. Tonks whispered that he'd been like this ever since she came in, as Remus' sharp eyes took in Harry's appearance. Even while performing the meditation exercises, tension radiated from Harry. With a sigh, the two of them settled down to wait for Harry to come out of his meditation, hoping that he wouldn't ignore them. 'Damn Snape' thought Remus.
Over an hour later, Tonks left the room to go to the kitchen and get something for the three friends to eat. Harry had not yet come out of his meditation, although Remus noticed that Harry was aware of their presence. It wasn't until after Tonks had arrived, carrying food obviously provided by Molly that Harry stirred.
"Harry" exclaimed Remus.
"Harry?" asked Tonks in a soft voice.
"Hi guys. Do you mind if we don't…"
"Nope, the less said the better. It means he might escape the next time we meet without me hexing him. Although, I was looking forward to doing something to that thing he calls hair. I swear that something is growing in there!" exclaimed Tonks.
Remus snorted, "I doubt it, the grease would kill anything off".
"What if there was something that fed on grease?" asked Tonks.
"You mean something like Dudley?" said Harry, still slightly subdued.
Remus and Tonks coughed several times, before bursting out in laughter, pulling a smile out of Harry in response. "Can you imagine your cousin living in Snape's hair!" gasped out Tonks in between laughter.
"I've no idea who I'd feel more sorry for, Snape or Dudley!" replied Remus, tears in his eyes.
Tonks composed herself before sitting down next to Harry. "Look Bro. I just want to say I'm proud of you. Snape had no right to say what he did, so don't feel too bad about it" she said, giving him a quick hug and a kiss on the cheek. "Now, it's a Snape-free zone for the rest of the night!"
"Wait, wait!" shouted Remus, wiping away the tears. He walked up to Harry and pulled him up into a fierce hug. Turning downcast eyes to his own, he told Harry, "What Snape did was unacceptable Harry. You did the right thing, even though it would have been easier to let him give you the lessons. He didn't have any right to say those things to you, nor to humiliate you with any sort of remedial lessons, and he doesn't know you at all. He sees James, and he sees the Boy-Who-Lived. He doesn't see our Harry, okay?"
Remus sat back down before saying, "now it's a Snape-free zone".
"Yay!" cheered Tonks, eliciting a smile from Harry. "Food?"
"No thanks Sis. I'm not hungry anymore" replied Harry.
"Oh well, I guess I won't be eating either" said Remus in a falsely light tone.
"Why?" asked Harry, confused.
"Our pact, remember?" Seeing the confused look on Harry's face, Remus elaborated further. "At the Dursleys? You don't eat, I won't eat?"
"Oh", silence followed before Harry spoke again. "I suppose I'll try to eat something then".
Remus smiled and as he turned to serve the food, he heard a quietly muttered "manipulative bastard" but just chuckled.
**********
Harry stood on Platform 9¾. It was finally the end of summer, the start of his 6th Year at Hogwarts. His trunk had been packed and then repacked by Tonks. The scarlet train was already waiting at the platform, smoke billowing out of the engine compartment. Students and parents were milling around with last-minute checks and tearful goodbyes. This time last year, Sirius had come to wave him off, well more like wag Harry supposed. It seemed that Harry had less and less people to say goodbye to. Absently, he noticed that there were Aurors positioned in various spots in case of Death Eater troubles, although Harry doubted there would be an attack, what with several children of suspected Death Eaters on the Hogwarts Express. Even so, Remus had given Harry a portkey that morning before they had left Grimmald Place.
"It's been specially made. You can activate it with a particular keyword, which is 'Lilyflower'. Only you can activate it Harry. If you need to get the others out, they've got to be in contact with you. The other feature is if there's a direct attack on you, the portkey will immediately activate. It will bring you to the Entrance Hall at Hogwarts. Now, I know you don't like portkeys, but it's for your safety".
Harry had put it in his trouser pocket and he hoped that he wouldn't have to use it. An uneventful year would be nice, though deep inside, Harry knew there was no chance of that.
Remus' voice jerked him from his thoughts. "Shall we get your trunk onto the train then? Where did Ron and Hermione put their stuff?" he asked.
"Over there I think" indicated Harry, leading the way. Finding the correct compartment, he saw that Ron and Hermione had indeed put their trunks and other luggage there. As had Neville and Ginny. Seeing there was not enough room for his trunk, he dragged it across the compartment, under the window. Not wanting to face the small group that had served as a 'guard', Harry decided to remain in the compartment and wait for his friends to arrive.
He had already said his goodbyes to Remus. Harry realised that he was going to miss the gentle werewolf, his quiet assurance and confidence. He had promised to write often and Remus had fixed the mirror that Harry had broken at the end of last year, after he'd found out that his godfather … that Sirius was dead.
There was a loud crash and a familiar voice muttering about stupid doors, that caught Harry's attention. "Harry! Hey little Bro! Hey! Were you going to leave without saying goodbye to your Sis?" she sniffed, affecting a mock hurt tone, with Remus grinning behind her.
Harry noticed that they were attracting a fair amount of attention, what with Tonk's bubblegum pink hair, Remus their ex-DADA Professor, and Harry standing in the compartment. Ushering them in, Harry looked over his glasses, pouting. "Of course not Sis! I knew you wouldn't let me leave without a kiss so I just decided to wait for you" he replied. "Now you be safe doing that Auror-slash-Order-slash-dangerous things you do. I need my big Sis to tease me! Besides who else would I trust to look after Wolf-man here!" he laughed.
"Hey!" retorted Remus, blushing. "I'm old enough to look after myself"
"And you have the grey hair to prove it I suppose, but you're a Maurader, trouble follows you. Besides, you have to stay safe Remus. You have to" Harry begged.
"I'll try Harry, the same for you too. Remember what I told you Harry, I know you can do it, that you can accept it".
Harry spent the next few minutes talking to the two before both hugged him goodbye and wished him good luck. As they started to leave the train, Harry quickly ran through the students and yelled to Tonks, "Hey Sis, don't I get a good luck kiss?" Harry laughed, joined by the many Weasleys and Remus as Tonks ran back to Harry. She gave a show of puckering up and giving him a noisy kiss before actually giving Harry a small kiss on the cheek. "Good luck Bro" she whispered in his ear. "I just know somehow that you'll need it. Remember, Remus and I love you".
Harry words got caught in his throat before replying "I love you two too. Thanks so much, for everything". Another hug later, she ran back to Remus and Molly whilst Harry yelled at Ginny to get on the train or miss it. His green eyes were bright with unshed tears, happiness and sadness, as the train began to move away from the platform. He watched as Tonks and Remus disappeared from view, but took solace in the fact that he would see them soon.
Harry was sitting in the compartment with Neville. Ron and Hermione were at their Prefect's meeting, but would be back soon, while Ginny was visiting some of her friends. Neville seemed content in reading his new Herbology coursebook while Harry absently petted Hedwig as he watched the countryside pass through the window.
Some time later, the door to their compartment crashed open and Ron fell in, followed by Hermione and Ginny. Ron was complaining about Prefect duties while Hermione argued back regarding their importance, Harry had become so used to the bickering that he tuned it out. He was brought out of his trance-like state by a red faced Ginny.
"Stop it you two. Just agree to disagree!" she yelled.
"Well said Ginny" Harry agreed.
"Hey!" complained Ron as Hermione let out an unlady-like snort.
"This'll keep your mouth occupied for a few minutes at least" said Ginny, as she passed around what seemed to be a white gummy sweet. Harry, Ron, and Hermione took one while Neville politely declined. All four started to chew the sweet, which had a pleasant peppermint taste when Harry felt a strange sensation pass over his body. Looking down, he gasped. "Umm, guys? Is this supposed to be happening?"
Neville looked up and burst out into laughter, obviously pleased to have escaped a joke sweet. "Ginny?" he questioned.
"Oooo, I am going to get Fred and George I swear! We look like ghosts!" she cried out.
Ron just looked at himself and then his friends and burst out laughing. Soon the other three joined him, after all, it seemed rather harmless for the Twins. The compartment door opening again, however, cutting off their laughter. This time revealing Harry's nemesis, Draco Malfoy. Harry grabbed his wand instinctively, not liking the look on the blonde's face.
"Potter" he spat. "It's all your fault my father's in Azkaban!"
"No, it's his fault for following an idiot like Voldemort" replied Harry, ignoring the winces from the other purebloods as he said the Dark Lord's name.
"He's more powerful than ever and he will kill you Potter" Malfoy sneered, "After you watch everyone you love die. The dog was the first"
"Shut up Malfoy! You don't know anything! Get out before we make you", warned Harry, temper rising fast. He was aware that his friends had risen and were pointed their wands at Malfoy and his two cronies, Crabbe and Goyle, who were at their usual positions behind Malfoy.
"This is for my father" cried Malfoy and threw a curse at Harry. At the same time, Harry shouted a curse he had learnt over the summer, one that would cause Malfoy to be temporarily blinded. Time seemed to slow as various curses from his friends and Malfoy's cronies passed through the small space. He saw his curse head towards Malfoy, and Harry ducked trying to avoid the one sent his way, but he was not fast enough. Harry fell onto his trunk, Hedwig hooting as he came into contact with her. He wasn't aware of the curse hitting, but he felt the pull behind his navel as the portkey activated. A bright white light blinded him before fading away. Blinking several times, he made out the doors of the Entrance Hall at Hogwarts, before darkness claimed him. Seconds later, Harry lay unconscious, draped over his trunk, Hedwig hooting loudly as she tried to awaken her master.
**********
Notes:
Oh my god! I've just written more in the last 3 days than I did for my dissertation, and that took me months! As promised, I've finished Chapter 3, without too long a wait! I've posted it, I had a couple of problems writing this one. I'm not sure I got what I wanted to say across, but it seems to read fine. Let me know! If you enough of you agree, I may try to re-write it. (Perhaps I should mention I stayed up the entire night checking the chapter so I could post it this morning.) The chapter wasn't meant to be this long, but I didn't want to draw it out any longer, so here you are!
The next chapter may be a little while. I've only plotted out about half of it, and the rest well, currently they're just events. Like I said before, this was an idea in my head and I just ran with it, hence no prep work unlike the other piece I'm planning meticulously. What was I thinking? I may have been drunk! Anyway, apart from the lack of a proper plot, I've agreed to go visit the Parents next week and I'm not taking my laptop with me (it's old and about to fall apart) so I'll post as soon as Ch 4 is done.
Now most of the foundations have been set, and there are some clues and hints everywhere. Feel free to guess! If you have any questions so far, e-mail or review and if I can I'll answer them. Any ideas you have are also welcome!
Thanks to Chrissi, hpcrazy, Romm, Acacia Jules and Facade1, Ping*Pong5 and Serendipity1 for reviewing! You got me through the last two nights as I stressed over this!
Ping*Pong5 - The egg is a surprise! You'll have to wait and see, unless you want to guess!
Serendipity1 - I can assure you that the dragon tooth necklace is NOT a power-based object. It is special though, in more than one way. The presents weren't really meant to be plot devices, mainly symbolic or just what I thought Harry would/should receive. The 'box' from the Twins came about because I thought it would be tiresome to write down every prank/joke item they gave Harry, so it's all been condensed into that box!
I apologise in advance for any mistakes, spelling, grammatical or otherwise. It is all my fault since this is unbeta'd. Please review (long is good!) and send any helpful comments, all will be appreciated. Any flames, however, will be, in all honesty, read then disregarded. Thank you for reading!
SStar