Once a Potter, Always a Potter

by WarMunger98

Harry is not the only Potter left. He was lucky enough to have a little sister born just before James and Lily were murdered. Follow their journey through Hogwarts and beyond as the tackle love, mystery and a war. They will meet new friends and be reunited with lost family. M for violence, language and later sexual situations/scenes. Hinny. Slowly updating.

23. Some Sense of Normality

Surprise, surprise, I managed to knock out this chapter in two days! Can you believe it? I certainly can't. I think what helped was that I finally sat down and did a plan on the upcoming chapters, so I know somewhat what will happen for the next 10 or so chapters. Hopefully I'll continue to have the motivation I need to keep writing. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this chapter as well!

Some sense of normality: Chapter 23

Dark storm clouds gathered over the Wiltshire; the moon blotted out by the thick, inky grey clouds. The only illumination was the streaks of lightning that came thundering down like sparks of electricity arcing off of a broken cable. Everyone had scattered for their own home, huddling by fires and televisions, or settling in with a good book and a cup of tea. All except one lone figure, cloaked in a long black, hooded robe. There was no sound as the figure walked along the road, their shadow spreading long against the path every time lightning passed over top. Eventually the figure found the location they were looking for, the ornate and prestigious home of the Malfoy Family. Looking up at the dimly lit windows, the figure sat outside of the gate for a moment, before vanishing from sight with the next flash of lightning.

Lucius was fuming, the ministry had raided his home after they were tipped off that he had been spreading dark artifacts, costing him hundreds of thousands of Galleons in bribes to try and scrub his crimes. Furthermore, his plan to remove Dumbledore from Hogwarts, whilst eliminating the mudblood and blood traitor population of Hogwarts, had failed in the worse way possible. The Potter snot had deprived him of his right to own Dobby the house elf, and the Weasley runt was still alive. Pacing the floor of his office, Lucius could only hope that by some miracle he would still have his place on the Board of Governors. Trying to calm his nerve, Lucius poured himself off a generous portion of Fire whisky, taking a stiff sip.

"Shouldn't you offer a guest a drink as well?"

Lucius almost choked as he dropped his crystal glass, whipping out his wand to train on the unwelcome guest. "How did you get in here!"

The cloaked figure held up two gloved hands, their face still obscured by the hood. "Nothing can stop me when I'm determined enough, Lucius."

"How do you know my name…who are you?" Lucius kept his wand trained on the figure.

The figure lowered their hands. "I know everything about you Lucius, I know your every thought, darkest secret and horrible addiction."

"How cliché." Lucius spat, "Give me an answer. Who are you?"

"I am known by many different names, I'm sure some of them would be familiar to you. For our purposes here though, you may call me…a Benefactor."

Gripping his wand a little tighter, Lucius watched the Benefactor warily. "A benefactor for who?"

"For you of course…and the man you serve." The Benefactor stated simply.

"And who do you think I serve then hm?"

The Benefactor chuckled. "Tom Riddle of course, or as you would know him, Lord Voldemort."

One would have thought Lucius would feel more at ease, knowing a potential ally was with him. But Lucius knew what kind of people Voldemort attracted. "Why are you here?"

"I have come to offer you, my help. It is obvious that your incompetence is standing in the way of bringing back Voldemort, so I thought it prudent that I step in and assist."

Going red with anger, Lucius just about blasted the Benefactor out the window after the insult. "I will not have you insult me in my own home, you cur!"

"Ooh, big words from, well, a little man." The Benefactor was unphased by Lucius' threat, "A few weeks from now you will be hosting another member of Voldemort's inner circle. You are to make sure he has access to everything he needs to complete his mission."

Lucius listened to the disembodied voice of the Benefactor as a mission was handed directly to him. "Who is the individual?"

"Peter Pettigrew."

Shaking his head, Lucius laughed. "You've obviously been hiding under a rock for many years now. That rat is in Azkaban, thrown in there by the Potter snots."

The Benefactor waved their hand in the air. "Pettigrew will find his way here, do not worry about that. Just be prepared to house him."

"What's in it for me?" Lucius asked.

"The return of your master." The Benefactor said, "And all the wonderful perks that come with his resurrection."

Thinking over his options, Lucius nodded his head slowly and lowered his wand. "Alright, I'll humour you. Should the rat show up here, I'll help him in whatever quest he has."

"Excellent!" The Benefactor clapped their hands together, "Try not to fail this time though Lucius. Your mistake with the diary is the only chance you get. Next time you fail, my services will be withdrawn."

"And what exactly are your services?"

The Benefactor folded their hands together. "You'll find that your bribe money has been returned, and all suspicion against you has been smothered amongst the Ministry."

Lucius' eyes bugged out of his head for a moment. "Who has the power to do that?"

"I do." The Benefactor said simply, "Now, if you excuse me, there's a man called John Demjanjuk who needs my help in the Middle East."

Lucius raised his eyebrow. "Who?"

"Someone very much like yourself Lucius." The Benefactor said, "We'll be in touch. Remember your task."

Lucius went to ask another question but as he did, a bolt of lightning lit up the room, causing him to close his eyes. When he opened them, The Benefactor had vanished, all trace of the mysterious figure gone. Rubbing his hand over his face, Lucius stepped forward and heard the cracking of crystal under his feet. The carpet beneath was soaked by the spilt Fire Whisky and broken crystal glass. Snapping his fingers, a house elf draped in a filthy pillow slip adorned with the crest of House Malfoy, popped into the room.

"Clean this mess up elf, and then bring me a fresh glass." Lucius spat.

"Yes master." The elf bowed down to the ground and quickly cleaned up the mess.

Taking a seat at his desk, Lucious mulled over the last few moments in his head, as a glass of Fire Whisky hovered over to his desk. "Be gone now elf." Lucius dismissed the elf as its task had been completed.

Taking a sip, Lucius knew now that he had room to manoeuvre. He thought about who he could bribe, who he could contact, who he could slip into his pocket to ensure that Pettigrew would succeed in whatever The Benefactor had planned. Lucius just hoped it involved getting rid of those fucking Potter brats.

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Dawn broke over the Scottish Highlands as sunrays illuminated the ancient walls of Hogwarts. Beams began to stray in through the infirmary windows, straight down onto Harry's face. The sunlight made the boy squirm in his bed, trying to avoid the sun at all costs. Finally deciding that he couldn't hide from the sun forever, Harry made to get out of bed. Scanning the room, almost everyone was still asleep. Sirius had taken to sleeping on Rose's bed in his Animagus form, whilst Remus was fast asleep on a chair next to Harry's bed. Next to Harry, Molly was sleeping with her hand over Ginny's own. His grandmother was curled up by Colin Creevy on a couch that his grandfather had sourced for her, whilst he sat between Hermione and Rose. The only other individual who was awake was Arthur Weasley.

Seeing that Harry was awake, the Weasley patriarch gave the boy a wide smile. "Good morning, Harry. Did you sleep well?"

Nodding slowly, Harry stretched out and felt his bones pop. "I did, thank you sir."

"None of that sir business Harry, call me Arthur." The elder man smiled, "Afterall, I think you deserve that right after last night."

Blushing hard, Harry swung his legs off the bed to look down at Ginny's sleeping form. The look wasn't missed by Arthur. "I did what was right. They would've done the same for me."

"You're a good friend Harry." Arthur smiled, "We're all thankful for the day you came into our lives."

"The Weasley's have done more than enough for Rose and I." Harry stated simply.

Nodding his head, Arthur tied on a tie and threw on his jacket. "Off so early?" Harry asked.

"Work beckons unfortunately. I want to try and nail Lucius Malfoy while the irons hot." Arthur explained.

Harry smiled. "The Ministry really doesn't deserve you, Arthur. Always dedicated to the cause."

"Someone's got to do it." Arthur sighed, "Merlin knows others don't care about Muggles."

After giving his wife and children a kiss in their sleep, Arthur bayed Harry farewell and departed the infirmary and school, off to work another woeful day full of red tape and bureaucracy. Not long after Arthur left, Madam Pomfrey was beginning to wake students and parents/guardians alike, either to kick them out or to give them a potion.

"Alright Mr Potter, let's get one last look at you before I dismiss you." Madam Pomfrey waved her wand over Harry's body, humming and hawing as various colours of lights beamed out of her wand and onto patches of Harry's body.

"Everything in check doc?" Sirius' voice startled Harry for a moment, who didn't notice his Godfather sneak up.

Pomfrey nodded. "It seems so. There's still a fair bit of bruising, to be expected, but otherwise you're the picture of health Mr Potter."

"Thanks Madam Pomfrey." Harry grinned, happy that he avoided having to take any potions.

Moving on to look at Ron's leg, Madam Pomfrey left Harry and Sirius to talk alone. "How're you feeling Pup?"

Harry shrugged. "Fine."

Sirius gave Harry an incredulous look. "How are you really feeling Harry?"

Letting out a sigh, Harry ran a hand over his face. "I don't know really. It kind of hasn't set in yet. I'm just…I'm just glad that Ginny's okay."

"You really like her, don't you?" Sirius grinned.

Harry flushed with embarrassment but nodded anyway. "I do…"

"Well, at least your dad would be happy." Sirius chuckled, "Just, take it easy okay Pup? I don't need to be a grand-godfather yet."

Blanching, Harry slugged Sirius' in the arm. "Seriously gross Sirius!"

"Are you traumatizing our godchild even more Pads?" Remus' sleepy voice came from behind them.

Sirius and Harry turned around to see the smiling face of Remus. "Never! I'm just telling Harry that he better keep his wand wrapped."

Earning himself another punch, Sirius put his hands up in surrender as Harry rounded on him. "Alright! Alright! I surrender!"

"You definitely deserved that Pads." Remus grinned.

"Probably."

Slowly, others began to awaken, friends and family looked around at each other with tired eyes. Hermione was the first to visit Harry, her hand gripping his. "How are you feeling Harry?"

"Hasn't really set in yet." Harry told Hermione the same thing he told Sirius.

"You really are a hero, Harry." Hermione said simply, "First the Stone, and now the Chamber of Secrets."

"It's almost like trouble follows him." Ron's voice pipped up as he hobbled over to his friends.

"And we're dumb enough to follow." Alec's voice joined in.

Harry and Hermione shared a look before rolling their eyes. "How's the cripple and sleeping beauty?" Harry asked his friends.

Ron flipped him the bird. "Legs fine, thank you very much. Just a little tender."

"I felt like I've slept enough for a lifetime." Alec replied, a little embarrassingly, "Didn't do much to help did I?"

All three of them gave Alec a look that said otherwise. "Don't think you can blame yourself Henderson. You've got nothing to be ashamed about."

The young Gryffindor rubbed the back of his neck. "Still feel pretty useless."

"Well yeah, you're no good as a knight in shining armour if you're the one who needs rescuing." Rose teased as she came over to sit on Harry's bed.

Alec sent a shy smile towards the youngest Potter, although he didn't meet her eyes. Harry meanwhile, wrapped an arm around his sister. "How're you feeling Rosey?"

"Just peachy. I feel like ripping that snake a new one." She seethed.

The group chuckled a little awkwardly at the comment, all except Harry who smiled brightly. "It's good to have you back sis."

Rose looked at her brother and felt her throat close up. "Missed you, Harry."

"Missed you too."

"Alright, enough of this mushy shit, I'm starved." Alec broke up the moment, earning him a scathing look from Rose.

It was too late though, the moment between Rose and her brother had been ruined, although she was still just happy that they were together again. Breaking up to go back to their own beds, the students gathered up their belongs and changed into a fresh set of clothes that Dumbledore had arranged to be brought down through the night. By the time Harry was changed into a fresh set of untorn and unbloodied robes, Ginny was fully awake and looking towards his way.

"Hey…" Harry smiled as he saw Ginny was awake.

"Hi." Ginny replied meekly, "What time is it?"

Looking at his watch, Harry saw that it wasn't even past 8. "Almost 8 o'clock. We didn't get much of a sleep in."

Ginny smiled softly. "Any sleep was nice enough."

Their discussion was interrupted as Molly came steaming over from looking after Ron. "Ginny dear, you're awake. Let's getting you dressed and fed." Too weak to resist her mothers' overbearing kisses and embraces, Ginny just nodded as she slipped out of bed.

Harry waited for Ginny to get ready, thinking over the conversation they had before they had gone to bed the night before.

Having just finished saying goodnight to Rose, Harry wandered back over to Ginny, taking a seat close to her bed. The pair just sat there, looking at each other for a while before Harry finally broke the silence. "You're alive…"

"Thanks to you." Ginny replied.

Harry shook his head. "I thought you were dead…when I went down into that chamber, I…I couldn't feel you at all."

"Feel me?" Ginny raised an eyebrow, "What do you mean?"

Harry blushed a deep red. "I um…I…I feel you. I feel when you're near…when you're upset, when you're happy. This past year I haven't felt anything, not while you were…you were possessed."

"You…you can feel my emotions? Where I am?" Ginny looked at Harry in wonder.

"I can…"

Ginny blushed this time, and mumbled something. "What was that?" Harry asked.

"I said…I said that I feel like I know you, but like I know you from…from a past life. Am I crazy?"

Harry shook his head. "I've felt that too. You're not crazy."

Before Ginny could reply, Sirius came over, causing Harry to looked up at his godfather. "Hey uncle Siri."

Thinking back to what Ginny said last night, Harry was more than a little confused at what was going on between them. Their emotions had rapidly changed over the course of a few months. They had quickly developed into more than just friends, but they were still confused over what was happening. Shaking the thought off for now, Harry was brought back to the present when he saw the curtains that partitioned Ginny's bed from the rest of the room were peeled back. Ginny looked almost back to normal, her hair tied into a pony tale and a fresh set of robes on her. But her hair didn't shine, nor did her eyes, like they normally would. They were still dulled, like when she was possessed.

Molly was behind her, still looking concerned. Her daughter had been possessed by the spirit of Lord Voldemort; Merlin knows what he put her through. But she fought, she fought for 9 long months, holding him off for that long. Through it all, Molly was damn well proud of her strong daughter, who she knew would not let this stop her. "Alright dear, lets get you fed. Coming with, Harry?"

Nodding his head, Harry offered his arm out to Ginny, who quickly took it, wrapping herself close to him. Molly looked concerned for a moment, until she saw the look that Ginny was giving the young boy. It was one of complete comfort and safety, the same look she gave Arthur whenever he held her. It startled her, but she dared not interfere, especially in both of their fragile states.

Ron however, had other ideas. "Ginny! Don't be a cling on!"

Harry and Molly both sent Ron an absolutely scathing look. Marching over to her son, Molly grabbed Ron by the arm and dragged him away quietly. "Your sister is fragile at the moment Ronald. If she feels safe being close to Harry then let her. He obviously doesn't mind."

Ron blushed in embarrassment. "I just don't want to feel like we're a burden on Harry."

"You could never be a burden on me Ron." Harry spoke up as he went over to join them, "You're my best friend…my brother in all but name."

Molly felt herself tear up a bit as Harry said that last part. "Oh Harry…"

"It's true Mrs Weasley, Ron, the twins, even Percy, I all consider you, my brothers." Harry said.

"Oh mate…" Ron felt himself tear up as well as he awkwardly brought Harry into a hug, "I'm sorry…I just worry you know. I see how people treat you, I don't ever want you to think we're using you."

"I would never think that, Ron. I know you, and I know your family. You're good people." Harry said simply, returning the hug.

Once the two boys were done embracing, Ginny took her place back on Harry's arm, giving her brother a soft look. "I'm sorry Ginny, I know how hard things must be at the moment." Ron apologised.

"Yeah…It's okay." Ginny said softly.

With that confrontation dealt with, the entire infirmary emptied out. Luna and Neville were waiting outside the infirmary for their friends, giving them all relieved looks when they saw them. Luna was more than happy to give everyone a big hug, even the parents. Percy and the twins were also waiting, however Percy had eyes for the Ravenclaw student who had been petrified with Hermione and Rose. Penelope Clearwater gave Percy a smile as he held out her hand and escorted her down to breakfast, leaving the Weasley brothers to snigger at their elder sibling. Juni, Alex, Remus and Sirius all said goodbye to Harry and Rose at the entrance to the Great Hall, stating that they'd see them all soon at the end of the term. Molly and Lennox did the same for their children, making sure to give them all extra hugs.

Juni was also sure to let Colin know that she'd let his parents know he was okay, as would she let the Grangers know as well. The two Muggleborn students were thankful to hear this, as they were unsure if their parents even knew what had happened to them in the first place. Adults and children went separate ways as the students disappeared into the Great Hall, ready to fill hungry bellies. The normal cacophony of owls, students and cutlery went deadly silent as the group walked in. Gossip spread particularly fast around Hogwarts, so all eyes were on Harry, Ginny and Ron. Those who were petrified were welcomed back, particularly Hermione, Alec and Rose at the Gryffindor table. Colin, who had missed most of the year, was squeezed in between the twins after they had seen him nervously looking for a spot.

"Come on ickle Colinkins, lets get you filled up…" Fred said.

"You're skinny enough as it is." George added.

"And if there's one thing us Weasleys know." Fred continued.

"It's how to fatten someone up!" They both said in unison.

Colin looked truly entertained by the twin talk, although those around them use to it just rolled their eyes.

As everyone begin to get their fill of breakfast in, there was scattered talk along the table of the events of the previous night. Ginny in particular was getting looks thrown her way, especially by the other two room mates she had. Rose and Luna for their part were shielding her the best way they could, by either threatening to pluck their eye out with a spoon or by engaging with them in conversation about Crumple Horned Snorkacks.

Eventually students began to go back to their own business, although they were still happy to send sideways glances towards Harry and his friends whenever possible. Towards the end of breakfast, Harry received a surprise visit in the form of Hedwig, dropping down a letter to him.

"Who's sending you a letter?" Rose asked.

Shrugging, Harry looked over and read the note.

Potter,

Meet me in my office after breakfast, alone.

Professor Severus Snape

Harry blanched as he saw that it was from the potions master. "What does Snape want from you?" Ron asked nosily.

"It's none of your business Ronald." Hermione said staunchly, although she was plenty curious herself.

"Blimey, I forgot what it's like to have you around…" Ron said quietly, earning him a look of disgust from Hermione, who promptly smacked him on the head with a copy of the Daily Prophet.

Slowly, students began to filter out from breakfast, heading to the last classes of the day. The group of friends looked a little lost, as the twins and Percy had left them to their own devices. Confused on what they should do, Professor McGonagall soon put them out of their misery.

"I've convened with the headmaster and we've both decided that it would be best if you all rest today. You're free to join your friends in your classes if you wish, however I think all of you have deserved a bit of respite before the feast tonight." McGonagall gave the group a rare smile.

"Thank you, Professor, I think I can say that all of us are a little shellshocked at the moment." Harry replied for everyone.

Everyone nodded their heads in agreement, in various states of eating. Harry had to snort as he watched bits of scrambled egg drip out of Ron's head as he nodded enthusiastically.

McGonagall either didn't see it or ignored it, as she gave everyone another warm smile. "And Mr Potter, Mr Weasley, you'll be receiving your awards for special service to the school tonight. Try to look your best." She placed particular emphasis on the looking good as she looked towards Ron.

As quick as she was to arrive, she was just as quick to leave. The group sat there in silence for a moment before Alec and Harry burst out laughing at the look on Ron's face. "Blimey Ron, can you stuff anything else in there?" Harry teased.

Swallowing his food, Ron gave Harry a glare. "I'm starving you know! After that bloody adventure last night, I need to refill my energy."

Ginny let out a soft snort beside Harry but didn't say anything. Rose gave her a look that said that she wanted an elaboration, but Ginny refused to give it. Instead, she just picked at her food as she rested her head on Harry's shoulder.

The various looks that Harry and Ginny had gotten had ranged in emotion. The twins looked like they had scored gold as they huddled together and whispered. Percy didn't seem to care very much, still too distracted by Penelope. Hermione was gushing with happiness, and Alec had given Harry a rogue wink. Rose just smiled, happy for her best friend and brother, but still a little wary after the incident at Christmas. Others like Luna, Neville, Dean and Seamus just smiled, exchanging knowing looks.

Eventually Harry finished up his breakfast. Knowing that he should see Snape sooner rather than later, he extracted himself from Ginny's embrace, the latter holding onto Harry until the very last minute. Giving her an apologetic look, Ginny reached out to grab Harry again, only to be startled as both Rose and Luna snuggled in close to the other girl and wrapped their arms around her.

"Alright everyone, wish me luck." Harry grinned cheekily.

"Give him hell mate." Alec grinned back.

Hermione rolled her eyes. "I'm sure it won't be that bad. Just go see him, Harry."

Not wasting another moment, Harry went down to the dungeons to where Snape's classroom normally was. Seeing that it was empty, Harry stepped in and made his way over to the door near the back that led through to Snape's office. Rapping his knuckles on the door, Harry was greeted by the terse drawl of Severus Snape.

"Come in."

Stepping into the office, Harry grimaced as he saw the Professor. "You wanted to see me, Sir?"

Snape looked up, his eyes widening for a moment before he motioned for the seat in front of him. "Sit."

Taking a seat in front of the potion master, Harry folded his hands in his lap as he waited for the lecture. "Are you alright, Potter?" Snape's question through Harry off.

"Um…I…I guess. Physically I'm just a little bruised, but it hasn't really set in yet."

Snape seemed to accept the answer as he nodded his head. "Potter…you're putting yourself in danger more and more often."

Harry furrowed his eyebrows. "What do you mean Sir?"

"Don't be dull Potter. Twice now you've almost died, performing some heroic stunt." Snape snarled, "It needs to end."

"Professor, with all due respect, had my friends and I not intervened, in both situations, the consequences would have been dire." Harry argued back.

Snape stood up suddenly and slammed his hands on the desk. "AND THE CONSEQUENCES OF YOUR DEATH WOULD BE EVEN MORE DIRE!"

Taken aback by Snape's outburst, Harry felt himself tense up as memories flashed before his eyes. Seeing the boy's discomfort, Snape calmed himself and sat back down. "You put yourself in too much danger, Potter."

"I understand that sir, but it's not in my nature to stand aside and let things happen."

Snape sighed, remembering another auburn-haired woman saying the same thing to him once. "You have more than just her eyes, you know."

Harry raised an eyebrow. "My mother's eyes?"

"Yes." Snape said, "She was strong willed as well, refusing to let others be hurt, even if it meant getting hurt herself."

Harry gulped. "You knew my mother?"

Snape nodded. "I did. We were friends for many years. Your family use to live near where I grew up. We stayed in touch and then found each other again at Hogwarts."

A tear fell from the hardened professor's eye, which he swiftly wiped with the back of his hand. "Professor…are you okay?" Harry asked.

"Yes…I'm fine Potter." Snape looked dead in the eyes of Harry, "You need to promise me that you'll be more careful from now on."

Nodding slowly, Harry promised. "I promise Sir, I'll try to be more careful in future."

Accepting the answer, Snape rubbed his eyes again. "You have a sister to look after Potter, don't ever forget that."

"I never do Professor, she's my number one priority. Always."

"Good, make sure it stays that way." Snape replied, "Now go on, go get some rest. Let us hope next year is not as exciting as the last two."

Harry managed to grin. "Oh, I doubt that Sir, danger seems to always find me."

"Or you it." Snape snapped back, "Go on Potter, go rest."

"Yes Sir…and Professor?" Harry looked into Snape's eyes, "Try and enjoy your holidays."

Snape nodded his head as he turned back to his work, leaving Harry to leave the office on his own. The boy was going to break his heart, he knew it, but he knew that the moment he saw those emerald green eyes.

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The conversation Harry had with Snape continued to bounce around in the boy's mind for quite a while, even while Ron challenged him to a game of chess. Frustrated by his friend's distraction, Ron moved on to versing Alec, albeit with less gusto than when he was versing Harry.

When Harry had returned to the Gryffindor common room, his friends were instantly wanting to know what had happened with Snape, all except Ginny who quickly clung back to Harry's side. That's how Harry found himself sitting on the couch with two redheads tucked into his side, Ginny taking one arm while Rose leaned her head on his shoulder.

"So, Professor Snape knew our mother." Rose mused as she fiddled with her hair.

"It seems like it." Harry confirmed, "He's afraid that I'm putting myself in too much danger."

Rose snorted. "I agree, you are putting yourself in too much danger."

"Yeah, but it's worth it." Harry said, looking down at the sleeping Weasley beside him.

Rose didn't miss the look, chewing on her lip as she asked a question she wanted to know. "Does she feel like her normal self again?"

Harry shook his head. "No, but she feels more like Ginny than she did before." Reaching over, Harry ran a hand through Ginny's hair, earning a light moan from the sleeping girl.

Jealousy was building in Rose, who turned away from the site. "Rose…" Harry called out to his sister.

"It's alright Harry…I understand."

"Rose, look at me."

Turning to face her brother, Rose just sighed. "What."

Harry gave her a look that only an older brother could. "Rose. You're always going to be important to me, you understand that right?" Rose nodded, "Ginny's been possessed for the last 9 months, she needs support…and yes…she's special to me. But you're my sister, I love you."

"I love you too Harry." Rose replied quietly. Snuggling back into her brother, Rose sighed contently as Harry placed a kiss on her brow and stroked her hair. The sensation brought back a memory of when Harry would brush her hair when they were younger, calming her down after a particularly nasty day of beating at the hands of the Dursleys.

The day passed like a blink of an eye for the group of friends, who soon found themselves packing their bags ready for the departure the next day. Soon they were being beckoned down to the Great Hall for the end of year feast. Harry didn't particularly feel like participating, instead wishing he and his friends could just stay up in the common room and be together. But they knew that if they wanted food, and Ron always wanted food, they would need to head back downstairs. When they walked through the doors, they were greeted by the bright banners in the colour of Gryffindor house. In all the flurry of the last few days, no one in the group had realised that Gryffindor had once again won the house cup.

Gryffindor's of all ages were excitedly discussing another win, wondering if last minute house points would be awarded again. Taking seats at their regular spots, the group were welcomed by the twins, who gave Harry and Ginny wiggling eyebrows. Both younger Gryffindors blushed as they realised that Ginny was still clinging to Harry's arm. The mutterings around the hall suddenly died down as Dumbledore took to the stage, behind his lectern.

"Good evening, students. Before you stuff yourselves up to your eyes, I wish to say a few words. This year has been one of hardship, with each and every one of your facing hardships." There were mutterings across the hall in agreement as students of all ages looked tired and weary.

"Some of you have suffered more than others, but together, we have continued to remain strong in the face of adversary." Dumbledore paused for a moment before continuing, "I will not lie to you, or cover your eyes with wool, the attacks on this school were led by none other than Lord Voldemort."

There were cries and yelps across the room as students and teachers alike recoiled. "Many of you will wonder how this is possible, as amongst you now is the very source of his destruction." Harry blushed as eyes were once more on him, "But the truth is, that a very powerful artefact was given to a student, who was then attacked and possessed by the spirit of Voldemort. This student, who shall not be named, resisted for 9 long months before finally losing control."

Ginny felt herself tense as some eyes began to scan the room, looking for the culprit. Rose made sure to reach under the table and give her hand a squeeze. "In no way should this student be criminalised. They were a victim of unmeasurable means, and they held off one of the most powerful wizards of history, by themselves. I applaud the student, for such bravery." Dumbledore began to clap, and eventually the entire school began to clap alongside him.

Harry made sure to look into Ginny's eyes as he applauded her resistance, letting her know that she was indeed a brave young lady, truly a Gryffindor. "Now, there is one last thing before I award the house cup. As some of you may have heard already, two of your fellow students made the brave attempt to stop the attacks around the school. They succeeded, at great personal cost and injury. Thus, myself and Professor McGonagall think it only fair that both these students receive a Special Awards for the Services of the School. Would Ronald Weasley and Harry Potter please make their way up to the stage."

Mutterings and whispers erupted across the hall as Harry and a limping Ron made their way up to the front of the hall, blushing furiously. Both of them had received numerous slaps on the back from fellow Gryffindors as they passed them, only adding to the embarrassment. Up on stage, the two boys stood side by side next to Professor Dumbledore, as Professor McGonagall held two plaques in her hand.

"To Mr Ronald Weasley, I present a Special Award for the Service of the School, in defeating the beast unleashed by the Heir of Slytherin, and protecting our school." The whole school clapped as Ron received his plaque from McGonagall. Even above the roar of the crowd, one could hear the whistles from the twins.

"And to Mr Harry Potter, I present a Special Award for the Service of the School, for defeating the Heir of Slytherins beast, protecting the school, and rescuing your fellow student. Well done boys." Another roaring round of applause went up as Harry was given his plaque. McGonagall laid her hand on his shoulder for just a moment as she smiled down at him.

"Your parents would be beyond proud, Mr Potter."

Blushing, Harry smiled and ducked his head as both himself and Ron made a quick exit off stage and back to their seats.

"Now, onto the matter of the House Cup. As you can see, Gryffindor has well and truly won the race this year, in no small part thanks to the actions of the two previous boys. As such, I would like to award the house cup for this year to Professor McGonagall!" Dumbledore passed over the gold cup to McGonagall, who smiled victoriously at her other heads of houses. Gryffindor house was celebrating loudly as the other houses, minus Slytherin, paid their respects with a soft clap.

"And now, the moment I know many of you have waited for, time to eat! Dig in!" With a wave of his hands, copious mounds of food sprung up on the tables to the ravenous students.

With gusto, students began to tuck into the food around them. Ron managed to pile up several chicken legs, a small mountain of peas and veg, a ladleful of mashed potatoes and a boat of gravy onto his plate. Those around him were confused, amused and disgusted by what they saw.

"Honestly Ron, how can you eat like that." Hermione chastised.

"Well, you see Hermione, I put it in my mouth, then I chew, and then I swallow. Repeat." Ron replied cheekily.

"I think the chew part only happens 50% of the time Ron." Alec interjected.

Spluttering, Ron blushed as everyone had a chuckle at the reality of the comment. Food, good company and warm air made the group feel alive again, and happy to be with each other. Jokes were shared, the twins pranked those around them, and Ginny was content that she was next to her Harry. Things were on the up, and so they should be.

As the night continued on, the piles of savoury delights turned into dishes of sweet treats, welcoming another serve onto everyone's plate. There were comments made about fattening up the students to feed the werewolves in the Forbidden Forest, making everyone but Harry and Ron laugh. They knew all to well what really tried to eat you in the forest. Towards the end of the night, the doors to the Great Hall burst open again, revealing a dishevelled but smiling Hagrid. Students looked towards the ground keeper as Harry quickly got up and run over to the giant.

"Hagrid! They let you go!" Harry cried as he tried to wrap his arms around Hagrid.

Wrapping his arms around Harry in a tight hug, Hagrid lifted the boy off the ground. "'Arry! I'm glad teh see you!" Putting Harry back down on the ground, Harry looked up at the groundskeeper as the hall erupted once again into a round of applause.

"Seems like we're all glad to see you too." Harry smiled.

With a tear in his eye, Hagrid made his way back up to the front of the hall where Dumbledore welcomed him back with open arms. "I'm glad that they got my letter."

"Thank yeh for tha' Professor, didn' particularly wanna' stay in there long."

Nodding his head, Dumbledore beckoned Hagrid into his chair as Harry went back to his own seat, but not before giving Hagrid another smile.

When he returned, Harry was questioned by Rose and Hermione about why Hagrid was missing. "They sent him to Azkaban, just after you were petrified." Ron explained.

"Remember how I said that Tom showed me Hagrid in that memory, everyone believed he opened it last time so the ministry pinned the attacks on him again this time too." Harry added.

Ron grunted in disgust. "So, they sent him to bloody Azkaban, without a trial or anything."

Hearing that, Rose paled as she saw the correlation there. "Just like they did with Sirius. How can they get away with that?"

The table was silent for a moment, before Alec spoke up. "It's bloody wrong, but nobody does anything about it."

"Well maybe we should do something about it!" Rose fumed, "Can't your dad do anything?"

Alec shrugged. "He could probably lobby for a law to be passed, or to change something. But he has to balance influence with keeping people happy, otherwise they'll vote him out."

Rose sat there with her arms crossed, furious at the injustice played on her friend, as her godfather for that matter. Sensing her anger, Harry leaned behind Ginny and placed a hand on her shoulder, beckoning for her to calm down. Her brothers touch seemed to do it, as Rose settled down to a mere simmer, which was all that anyone really asked for from the feistiest Potter.

Soon enough, everyone was finished with their dinner and the students were led back off to their dormitories so that they could all sleep off the feast that they had consumed. Harry and Hermione had a very interesting discussion on how they thought they got everyone to eat so much at the end of year so that they would fall asleep instantly and be ready for the trip home the next day. Ron just told them not to spoil his love of feasts. The group sat and talked a little while longer by the dying fire, mainly catching their petrified comrades up on the events that transpired whilst they were in the infirmary. Harry also told a very cut down version of the events in the Chamber, how he versed Riddle, defeated the Basilisk, was rescued by Fawkes and the Sorting had, and of course the mysterious voice in the Sorting Hat itself.

"Are you sure it wasn't just the sorting hat?" Hermione asked.

Harry shook his head. "No way, this voice was Scottish for sure."

The group brainstormed who it could have been. "Maybe it was Godric Gryffindor?" Alec suggested, "I mean, he did create the damn hat in the first place, surely he could've put some of his own personality in there."

"It's a good guess." Hermione commended, "But I guess we won't really know unless we try and talk to the Hat again."

Harry shrugged. "I doubt Professor Dumbledore would just let me waltz into his office and pluck the Sorting Hat out of his spot and put him on my head."

"You never know, Fawkes might bring it as payment for the scratches." Ron teased.

"Don't worry, he's paid for a lifetime of scratches with what he did for me down there." Harry chuckled.

Eventually the group decided that they couldn't put off going to bed forever, so one by one the group decided to say goodnight and depart for their beds. Eventually it was only Harry and Rose left, as Ginny had fallen asleep on Harry's lap and was extracted by Hermione and Luna, carrying her up to her bed.

With just the Potter siblings left, Harry sat and watched the fire die off as Rose put her head on his shoulder. "You're making a habit out of saving my life you know."

"It's what big brothers do." Harry said simply, "Besides, I didn't save your life this time, the Mandrakes did. As well as Hermione's mirror."

Rose shrugged. "You still killed the Basilisk, stopped it from attacking anyone else. I count that as saving my life."

"Well, if that's the case, I might as well just punch someone and say they were thinking about killing you." Harry joked.

Rolling her eyes, Rose hit her brother softly. "Don't be a muppet Harry, you know what I mean."

Silence fell between the siblings again before Rose asked a question. "Do you love Ginny?"

Caught off guard, Harry stiffened up before relaxing. "Yes…I do."

Rose just hummed in thought as she twisted her hair between her fingers. "I know. It's hard not to know."

"That obvious huh?"

"Very." Rose snorted, "But I'm glad you do. I want Ginny as a sister one day."

Harry almost choked as he listened to Rose. "Okay Rosey, don't get ahead of yourself there!"

"Admit it Harry, you two are like glue. There's no way we can unstick you."

Harry couldn't deny it, nor did he want to. He and Ginny were inseparable. The shared experience down in the Chamber only solidified that bond. "Come on Rose, I think it's about time we both head to bed."

Groaning, Rose refused to leave her spot, until Harry stood up and her head gave way to flop onto the couch below. "You dick!"

Chuckling, Harry helped his sister up and gave her a tight hug. "I think you've grown while you were asleep."

"Don't tease me like that!" Rose growled.

"I'm serious, look!" Harry measured where Rose's head stood on Harry's body, just below his neck, "You used to be at my chest, now you're at my neck."

"Maybe you're just shrinking then." Rose teased.

Harry snorted. "Rack off brat. Get up to bed, go on!"

Reaching up to give her brother a kiss on the cheek, Rose scampered off to bed before Harry threw a pillow at her. "Goodnight, Shorty! Love you!"

Harry just rolled his eyes. "Love you too Rosey."

Making his own way up to bed, Harry sat down on his bed and listened to the snores of his friends around him. It comforted him knowing everyone was safe once again. Tucking himself into bed, Harry shut his eyes and tried to send himself to sleep. But no matter what he did, he still couldn't sleep. Images of Ginny laying dead on the cold Chamber floor kept popping into his mind. Then they would switch to Rose, begging him to save her from the Basilisk before she stared into the giant golden eye of the beast and dropped dead. He saw Hermione do the same, and then Ron snapping his neck as he landed funny coming out of the slide. He saw Alec drop dead from the Basilisk, and then Luna, Neville, Sirius, Remus, his grandparents and finally himself before he woke up in a startled heap.

Covered in sweat, Harry peeled the sticky sheets off of himself and hopped out of bed. He knew there was no getting back to sleep now, so he decided to take a book down and try and get some studying done in the common room. When he got down there, he was surprised to see Ginny huddled up on the couch, staring into the dying embers of the fire.

"Ginny?"

Hearing her name, Ginny jumped, until she saw that it was her Harry. "Harry…what're you doing up?"

"I had a nightmare." He said simply, "Mind if I join you?"

Ginny shook her head and patted the spot next to her on the couch. Sitting down next to her, Harry automatically opened up his arm so Ginny could lay down in his lap. "I had a nightmare too." Ginny said.

"About the Chamber?"

Ginny nodded. "Yeah…and the possession. I can't…I can't get the things he showed me out of my head."

Harry blanched. "What did he show you?"

Ginny shivered for a moment. "I…he showed me what he did to people he didn't like…how he tortured and bullied people at Hogwarts for years without anyone knowing."

Feeling the distress in Ginny's voice, Harry ran his fingers through her hair in a calming movement. "And then…then he showed me what…what he used to do to girls…"

Harry felt himself become sick as he realised what Ginny meant. "You don't need to say anything else if you don't want to."

Letting out a sigh of relief, Ginny shut her eyes and let the feeling of her Harry's hand in her hair calm her. "Thank you."

"For what?" Harry asked.

"For everything. For saving me, for being there for me, for stroking my hair. You do so much for me."

Harry hummed. "I'd do anything for you Gin. I only wished I'd helped you earlier."

"It's not your fault. I kept running away and avoiding you. I was stupid…weak."

"Don't you dare say that." Harry said, "You heard what Dumbledore said, you were so bloody strong fighting him off for 9 months. You're only 11 and you managed to hold off the darkest wizard of our history, when adult witches and wizards have failed."

Hearing Harry's praise for her made Ginny blush, but she liked hearing it nonetheless. "Thank you…you're too good to me."

"Never. You're my Gin."

"And you're my Harry."

Craning her neck to look up at Harry, Ginny stared up into the emerald eyes that met her own fudgy brown eyes. Reaching her hands up around Harry's neck, Ginny leaned up and pressed her lips against Harry's in a featherlight yet loving kiss that sent sparks throughout her body. Harry was not immune to this affect either, feeling his whole-body light up with a million sensations as Ginny's soft lips felt like velvet against his own. Pulling apart, Harry smiled gently as he placed a hand on Ginny's cheek.

"What was that for?" He asked.

"For everything. That's your reward for…for being you. For being Harry." Ginny smiled.

Feeling himself blush, Harry continued to look at Ginny, lost in her once more alive and bright eyes. The two stayed like that most of the night, only shifting so that they could lay on the couch together. At some point, Harry fetched them a rug and the two slept through the night, together, protecting one another from the nightmares.

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Sometime just before dawn, Rose Potter woke with a start. She had been having a lovely dream about living with all her loved ones; her brother, her parents, Sirius, Remus, her grandparents, and surprisingly Alec as well. The dream had turned sour though as she pictured her parents dying once again, joined by her Godfather, Remus and her Grandparents. Next was Alec, who died to a mysterious green light. Finally, Harry was cut down and an evil laugh echoed through her mind. Knowing there was no chance of her getting to sleep again, she decided on an early start, hoping she could make up for sleep on the train home. Heading downstairs, she was startled to find two sleeping forms on the couch by the fire. Wandering over, Rose gasped as she saw her brother and Ginny curled up together, covered by a blanket.

Not wanting to know what would happen if Ginny's brothers found her and her brother like this, Rose decided to wake the pair up. "Harry! Harry wake up!"

"Wassapping!" Harry jumped as his sister shook him awake, "Rose? What time is it?"

"Not quite dawn. You need to head back to your dorm before Ginny's brothers wake up and find you like this."

Harry was confused at Rose's words for a moment, until he heard the soft snores of Ginny next to him, alongside the heat that was radiating off her body. Embarrassed at being caught in such a position, Harry blushed. "Help he get her up."

Rose rolled her eyes but helped her brother anyway. "Ginny? Ginny, you need to get up."

Slowly but surely, Ginny pried her eyes open and looked up at the youngest Potter. "5 more minutes…" She mumbled.

"No Ginny, you need to get up now and head back to your dorm, before your brothers catch you!"

Realising the position, she was in, Ginny quickly jumped up and backed off of Harry. "I'm sorry Harry!"

"It's okay!" Harry put his hand up, "We'll talk more about it later, just head up to your dorm, okay?"

Nodding, Ginny quickly slipped past Rose, her face bright red in embarrassment. Harry watched her retreating form slip up to the dormitory, before levelling his eyes to his sisters.

"It's not what you think."

Rose shook her head. "You two need to be more careful. You can't just go around sleeping on couches together in the middle of the night. People will get the wrong idea!"

Harry blushed but nodded. "We just needed each other last night. We both had nightmares and found ourselves down here. Nothing happened, I swear."

"It's okay Harry, I know that." Rose sighed, "I just don't want either of you two being hurt by the bloody gossip machine of Hogwarts."

"It does seem to be rather efficient, doesn't it?" Harry joked.

Rolling her eyes, Rose slugged her brother on the arm with a punch before pointing back at the boy's dormitory staircase. "Go on, go get ready for the day would you."

"Yes ma'am." Harry teased as he quickly ran up the stairs, leaving Rose to sit there on the couch.

Seeing her brother sleeping next to her best friend had shocked her, even if it was only innocent cuddling. It made her realise that her brother was growing up, and that would mean that she would be growing up soon as well, and that…that scared her most of all.

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Whilst Rose, Harry and Ginny had been up for hours before daybreak, the rest of Hogwarts had slept soundly in their beds. A long year and good food the night before meant that they easily fell into a deep sleep within minutes. As dawn broke on Hogwarts, the drowsy students began to rise from their food comatose slumbers, shambling around like the dead as they organised themselves for the trip home. Some dragged their feet, taking their time as they got ready, whilst others rushed about in a panic trying to pack their trunks. Those that were prepared simply enjoyed their morning, watching others run around like headless chooks. Harry was one of those who was prepared, and he thoroughly enjoyed watching his room mates run around in a panic.

"Has anyone seen my hat?" Ron asked as he tore through his bed sheets, looking for his pointed wizard's hat.

Seamus was busy trying to stuff his textbooks into his trunk, swearing in a mixture of English and Irish. "Foc! Get in there you bloody piece of cac!"

"I've lost my wand! Oh my god I've lost my wand!" Dean panicked as he felt around in his pockets for his wand.

"Bloody shitfuck, where's by bloody shoes!" Alec swore.

The only other individual who was packed and ready was Neville, who was trying to help his friends find things. "Ron! I've got your hat, her…oof!" Hearing that Neville had his hat, Ron turned around quickly, only to knock his cauldron into Neville's head.

"Bloody hell! Sorry Neville, are you okay?" Ron made sure the boy was alright before going back to panicking.

Neville for his part, was sporting a sore head but was otherwise alright. He decided then to just stay back and watch the carnage unfurl, much like Harry did.

Finally, the group of students were organised to the point where they could safely head down to breakfast without feeling like they were forgetting anything. Harry and his friends caught each other on the way down to breakfast, where Rose made sure to tease Alec and Ron for being late.

"I thought you two boys would've been ready last night, just so you could stuff your mouths full this morning."

Ron rolled his eyes as Alec gave Rose a half-hearted glare. "Watch it Potter, I doubt you were ready this morning either." Alec teased back.

"I'll have you know I was ready last night." Rose said indigently, "Isn't that right girls?"

Turning to Luna and Ginny for support, both girls backed up their friend's statement. "Rose was very organised this morning, so much so that she even managed to keep the wurtsprouts out of her hair." Said Luna.

The group looked confused but accepted Luna's assessment anyway. At some point, Ginny had once more found herself clinging to Harry's arm, getting odd looks from her brother. Ron didn't say anything though, instead he kept his mind focused on the upcoming breakfast. Students were milling about their house tables, busily discussing holiday plans and how they think they went with their NEWTS and OWL exams. It seemed like everyone had put the events of the last few days behind them as the realisation that they'd be going home and enjoying time with their family finally sunk in. Fitting in another feast of breakfast goods, the group of friends were feeling much more upbeat this time around. It helped that Percy was busy making love eyes towards the Ravenclaw table, more specifically Penelope Clearwater. The twins, and Ron, had taken to teasing their elder brother, giving everyone a laugh as George and Fred pretended to have a furious snogging session at the table. Eventually breakfast was called to a close, sending students and staff alike to ready themselves for the trip back home. For those still yet to pack, it was a frantic dash up to their dorms to be ready in the short amount of time they had. For Harry and his friends though, it meant a bit of time to enjoy wandering around the castle grounds before being cooped up in a train compartment again. Finally, the signal to depart down to the train station was given, as students piled out of the front gates, a smiling Dumbledore waving them all off.

"Enjoy your holidays students! Don't let your heads be too empty by the time you get back!"

Boarding the horseless carriages, Harry felt himself relax in the seat as he realised that the drama of the year was over, he could go home and finally relax over the summer holidays. Still though, the events of the last few weeks especially, continued to play in his head. Somehow, he knew that things were going to change, maybe not entirely for the better.

The journey back to London was quiet, which everyone appreciated. Malfoy didn't make an appearance, and Ron managed to get everyone into good spirits by playing a game of exploding snap with the group. Ginny was snuggled up next to Harry for the entire ride home, while Rose thought herself cheeky by using Alec's legs as her own foot stall. The boy didn't seem to mind however, using the opportunity to tease her about her tiny shoe size.

Stuffing themselves full once more with a feast of lollies off the trolley, Rose, Ginny and Harry soon found themselves falling asleep as the warm spring sun shone through the windows. Catching up on some very well-deserved sleep, the three were awoken by their friends and siblings on arrival to Kings Cross Station. The platform was lined with families, waving to their children as they stuck their heads out of the window.

"One day, someone's going to lose a head doing that." Hermione mused.

Students began to pile out of the train, running or walking into the arms of their parents or guardians. Rose and Harry made a beeline towards their grandmother and Sirius, who were waiting with wide smiles. Juni pulled Harry into her arms as Sirius lifted Rose up into his.

"I'm so glad you're home and safe darling." Juni cooed into her grandson's ear.

"Trust me, I'm glad to be home myself."

Sirius hummed in agreement. "It's been a long year. Let's get you home."

Rose smiled brilliantly. "Yeah, home…at last."