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.

27. A Grim Year at Hogwarts School of Magic

Hey folks, sorry for the long delay on this chapter! I just recently started a new fulltime job so things have been very hectic for me lately. I have however found myself with some more time to write. I'm sort of aiming for longer chapters these days (15k to 20k wordcounts) as such it's taking ages to actually get through it all. I actually finished this chapter ages ago but wanted to hold back on releasing it because it's a two parter, but I figured that I might as well put you all out of your misery. The next chapter (28) is around about 6k words atm so I expect that on my current writing schedule to get it done before Christmas. After that, I have a feeling that many of my chapters will once again become sporadic, maybe 3-4 chapters a year. That would still be around 80k words a year. I do get a long holiday period of around 5 weeks after Christmas so hopefully I can keep on a roll and keep writing, but that remains to be seen. The last thing I want to do is force myself to write and then make it into a chore. I write this story because it's a hobby and a passion. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this chapter. Forewarning, this chapter does contain scenes of self-harm, so a trigger warning is in effect. I'll put a little note further down as well. Otherwise, enjoy.

A Grim Year at Hogwarts School of Magic: Chapter 27

No matter how hard any student tried, the first day back at Hogwarts was always a challenge. So many of them woke up bleary eyed and stumbling through the hallways towards the Great Hall where they could refresh themselves with caffeine and a hearty breakfast. Others, found themselves waking up early in excitement for another year of learning. And lastly, there were those that were in the middle, those like Harry, who found waking up early a normal occurrence and were more than happy to take an easier pace to the start of the day. This year though, there was an ominous feeling that blanketed the school, like something was sucking the lifeblood out of its very walls. The only way to explain it would be to compare it with the constant feeling of dread right before taking a plunge into icy cold water.

Harry chalked it up to the presence of the Dementors, as it reminded him of the same feeling he got when the Azkaban guards approached the train. He didn't like it one bit, and found himself trying to distract his emotions by recounting what he would need for the day, even though he had no idea of his timetable. There was also the matter of Rose's birthday the following day, which meant that Harry had to wrap the present he had gotten her, in secret mind you because without a doubt she'd be hounding him all day about it.

So, come the morning of Thursday the 2nd of September, 1993, Harry found himself to be one of the first students awake. Of course, Hermione beat him soundly, Harry finding her hunched over a rather thick volume on one of the many study tables in the common room.

"Morning Hermione, sleep well?" Harry greeted as he slid in to the seat opposite her.

Looking up from her book, Hermione beamed at her friend. "I did thank you Harry, it's always wonderful the first day back. So many new things to learn, so many adventures."

"I certainly hope there's no adventures. A normal year would be quite alright by me thank you very much." Harry said.

"Oh Harry, face it, you're adventure prone." Hermione giggled, "Although to be honest, you really should try and stay out of trouble this year. With Pettigrew on the loose, who knows what could happen."

Harry leaned back in the chair and let out an almighty sigh. "If it's not one thing it's another. Face it, Hermione, no matter what I do I'll always be in danger."

"Well, you're lucky to have good friends by you through it all then."

Smiling at Hermione's comment, Harry nodded his head thoughtfully. "That I am. You lot are always dragging me out of the mud."

The two chatted for a while longer before they were joined by Rose and Luna. The pair said their good mornings, although Rose was certainly blearier eyed than Luna. Rose budged her brother along, laying her head down on his shoulder as she moaned about the early start.

"Why can't they just pour all the knowledge into our heads and send us on our way." Rose groaned.

"I would assume that it has something to do with making your mind explode." Harry suggested with a chuckle, "Otherwise I'm sure half the teaching staff would much prefer to be off in a pub enjoying a cold beer rather than dealing with the Weasley Twins."

Hermione looked scandalous at Harry's suggestion. "Our professors are here because they enjoy teaching, not because they have little aspiration elsewhere."

"Relax Hermione, it was just a joke." Harry defended himself, "Besides, you know how the Twins can be."

"That I do." Hermione groaned.

After a few more minutes of empty discussion amongst the small group, the next lot of students began to arrive down. Alec and Neville were closely followed by Dean and Seamus, whilst Ginny stumbled from the girl's staircase, shuffling like a zombie towards her friends.

"I see some things just don't change." Harry quipped as he saw the state that Ginny was in. She looked to be still half asleep, but still managed to find her way over to budge up next to Rose.

The younger girl couldn't help but giggle at Ginny's state, poking her in the ribs when her head fell on Rose's shoulder. "Oi you, come on, don't go falling asleep on me!"

"It's too early." Ginny groaned, "And why is it so bright in here?"

"I thought Ron was bad." Harry laughed, although in his mind he remembered that Ron was still to get up, so his condition would almost certainly be worse.

Ron wouldn't appear for another 20 minutes, by which time almost the entire house had gotten up and moved to the Great Hall to fill their bellies. When he did finally emerge, he looked almost as zombified as Ginny. Stumbling to the group, Ron had haphazardly thrown on his robes, which were backwards and loosely fitted. Feeling sympathetic, Harry helped his mate out and quickly tidied him up so he looked presentable enough to head downstairs.

Mumbling his tired thanks, Ron went to get up, only to head back towards the dorms. It took a quick guiding hand from Alec and Harry to steer Ron towards the portrait hole and out into the wider castle. The group moved together down to breakfast, waving and greeting their friends and acquaintances from other houses and years ass they passed by, presumably after finishing their breakfast. But like most days, by the time the group got down to the Hall, it was still teeming with life as students huddled around in their groups, exchanging stories and worries all whilst stuffing their faces with food that only Molly Weasley could perhaps have a chance at beating.

Once everyone had some hot food in their stomachs and some caffeinated tea or coffee poured down their throats, the energy around the table normalised, the sleep shaken away from those that were struggling through the morning. Professor McGonagall took this opportunity to come around and pass out yearly schedules, offering Harry a brief conversation when she passed his schedule to him.

"The headmaster has informed me of the details of your meeting last night, as such I'd like to have a brief discussion with you next Monday after Transfiguration, Mr Potter, to discuss our own 'meetings."

Harry nodded his head in understanding. "Of course, Professor, I'm looking forward to it."

McGonagall gave Harry a rare smile. "Excellent, I'm hoping you've read through some of Honorius' work?"

"Briefly Professor, although I will admit that it's rather more complicated than I thought."

The Transfiguration Professor gave a sharp nod in understanding. "That it is, but I have the upmost faith in you, as I'm sure your father would as well. He was an excellent Transfiguration student, a skill I have little problem in believing you've inherited. Good luck to you Potter."

With one last glance at the group, McGonagall continued on her mission to hand out schedules.

"What was that all about mate?" Ron looked quizzically at his best mate.

"I haven't told you guys yet, but at my birthday party, Professor Dumbledore discussed having private lessons together." Harry explained, "Professor McGonagall and Remus also want to be included in this 'private tutoring'."

Hermione scrunched her nose up a bit. "Why exactly are you getting private lessons?"

Harry went on to explain everything Dumbledore had mentioned just over a month ago. His friends seemed a little uneasy over the fact that Voldemort would more than likely return and hunt down Harry, although it seemed to make a fair bit of sense. Rose though, had a determined glint in her eye as she turned to her brother.

"Whatever happens, we'll both face him together."

Offering his sister a gentle smile, Harry ran a hand through her hair. "I knew you'd say that. That's why Professor Dumbledore has offered to include you in the lessons next year, once you've gotten all the basics down. He also mentioned that any skills I learn I would be allowed to pass on to anyone else…meaning you lot." Harry scanned his eyes over his friends.

"Well, that's rather useful." Alec quipped, "Seeing as we're all more than likely going to have targets painted on our backs anyway."

"Pretty sure you had a target on your back already with how loud your mouth is." Rose teased, earning herself a bout of laughter from around the table.

After breakfast, the rest of the day was rather smooth sailing in comparison to previous years, starting off with a Charms in the morning and Herbology in the afternoon. Flitwick had welcomed them back with some simple revision of last year's work before launching into a lecture on the Cheering Charm, a much-needed spell with just how gloomy the halls of Hogwarts were that year. In Herbology, Sprout set them to work harvesting the greenhouses Valerian sprigs, before the weather began to foul and the sun would hide away. Throughout the course of the day, there was talk of Pettigrew's escape throughout the halls and classrooms. Various students were pointing and looking in Harry's direction, with more than one giving him a look of pity. Harry surmised that they probably thought he was in some sort of danger, forgetting the previous two years already. Danger was part of Harry's life; he'd eventually accept that fact.

On top of the attention, more than one Slytherin student had reminded Harry of his encounter with the Dementors on the Hogwarts Express. Malfoy's cronies were more than happy to pretend to faint or hike their hoods up like a Dementor as they screeched like banshees. For the most part, Harry managed to ignore it, even if it did grind his gears. He knew that if he showed any regard to their attacks, he'd only end up making it worse. Besides, he had much larger things to worry about, namely a certain someone's imminent 12th birthday. Whilst last year Harry had managed to secure himself and Rose the day off, alongside Luna and Ginny, this year would be different considering it was not a landmark birthday. However, Harry had other plans for the evening, where he could throw his sister a surprise party.

Harry managed to briefly catch up with his sister, catching her at lunch alongside Ginny and Luna. The now second years had much to say about their first defence lesson with one Professor Lupin.

"Honestly Harry, he's probably one of the best teachers here already." Rose gushed.

"Isn't that a little bias Rosie?" Harry grinned as his sister spluttered, "Afterall, he is one of our favourite uncles."

Rose blushed and rolled her eyes. "So? I'm being serious when I say he was fantastic. We've already started on Expelliarmus, and he gave us the entire terms curriculum. Hopefully by Christmas we would have covered Banshees, Ghouls, Yetis, Rictumsempra and Petrificus Totalus."

Everyone was looking at Rose as she listed off Remus' goals for the first half of the year. Hermione looked quite impressed at the arrangement, noting that last year Lockhart hadn't even begun to teach them half of what Remus was planning to. "I have to say, I'm quite looking forward to tomorrow's lesson now."

"Sounds like we actually have a qualified defence teacher for once." Ron added, "Not like Lockhart and Quirrell."

"Lockhart wasn't as bad as Quirrell." Hermione tried to defend the previous teacher, although her heart wasn't in it.

Ron sat up straight at that point and looked Hermione in the eye. "May I remind you that he tried to erase Harry and I's memory? If it wasn't for Harry, we'd be both stuck at Saint Mungo's with drool hanging out our mouths!"

Hermione looked like she wanted argue, but kept her peace, deciding that her food was more interesting than debating Ron. In return, Ron rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Bloody barmy you are Hermione."

Having re-energised themselves with lunch, the group separated to head their respective classes. The third years had potions down in the dungeons whilst the second years had charms with Flitwick. Although Harry had never truly had much of a problem with Professor Snape, it was clear that there was animosity between the two of them, and an uneasy peace. As such, it caught Harry off kilter when the potion master immediately launched into a tirade on the increasing difficulty of this year's potions class. Snape was not taking any mercy that day, deducting points for so much as a sneeze, even from Slytherin students. Of course, the only one immune was Malfoy, who was more than happy to mouth off to antagonise the Gryffindors in front of him. At one point, he'd managed to throw a tack into the back of Harry's head, eliciting a yelp as the sharp object nicked the sensitive skin of Harrys head.

Turning around with a fury in his eyes, Harry was about to accuse Malfoy when Snape let out a crisp and sharp order. "Get back in your seat Potter. And see me after class."

Annoyed that once again Malfoy got away with his bullying, Harry fumed in his chair, hardly paying attention to the class as he thought about all the ways he wished he could get back at the snotty little shit.

Towards the end of the lesson, Harry managed to pay enough attention to jot down some brief notes, setting himself a reminder to catch up with homework that night. As everyone cleared out at the end of the lesson, Harry's friends sent him a sympathising look, letting him know that they'd be waiting for him. Finally, it was just Snape and Harry left in the class.

Harry waited for a moment at his desk, staring at the Potion master as the latter went and cleaned up the board he was using to teach. When he was done, he turned to face the elder Potter, with a look that sent shivers down Harry's spine.

"You need to control your anger, Potter."

Those words did nothing to quell the anger that was already stirring in Harry. "How can I control my anger when people like Malfoy live to antagonise me!"

"Because if you don't, then someone will exploit it." Snape said coolly, "I don't need to tell you who I refer to."

Biting his lip, Harry nodded his head. "Pettigrew."

"Correct. Your anger towards him is his advantage. Add your history of brash action and suddenly… Pettigrew has the upper hand."

Feeling resigned to the idea that Snape was correct, Harry just nodded his head as he studied the desk in front of him. "I understand Sir."

"Good. Let that be a reminder, now leave, I have your summer parchments to mark."

Startled at the briskness of Snape's dismissal, Harry quickly gathered his belongings and left the dungeon classroom. He found his friends waiting outside the door for him, looking rather worried.

"How much did you hear?" Harry asked.

"Enough." Alec replied, "Seems like someone needs a holiday.'

"I just had one, it wasn't very good." Harry retorted.

Alec rolled his eyes. "A proper one, somewhere nobody can disturb you. Just you and the wide-open sky."

It did sound rather appealing to Harry, who pictured himself laying on some deserted beach somewhere, clear blue water and warm sand under his feet, a certain redheaded someone laying next to him. Harry obviously looked like he was spaced out, as Ron made a clicking sound with his tongue. "Come on then, lets go pack our things away and grab some dinner, I'm starved."

Nobody disagreed, as the first day back was always one of the toughest mentally to get through, of course unless you were Hermione Granger. Making their way towards the Great Hall, Harry and his friends were intercepted by Rose's gang, falling into step with them as they descended from the staircase.

"How'd you go Rosie." Harry greeted his sister with a smile as she bumped into his side.

"Good! Flitwick just had us going through some revision and introduced us to this year's spells."

Harry listened to his sister discuss her day, giving her most of his attention, however he also devoted some to the new presence next to him. Ginny had sidled up next to Harry, staying close enough that their shoulders would occasionally brush against each other. As Rose continued to detail all the new gossip that she'd heard, Harry peered over at Ginny and gave her a soft smile, which was returned in full, although it didn't quite reach her eyes.

Discussion around the table at dinner ranged from how everybody found their first day back to various theories on where Pettigrew could be, or what he could be doing for that matter. The overbearing feeling of dread was still heavy throughout the school, Harry noticed. He wondered if the school would go back to feeling the same once the Dementors were gone, or if this was just the start of a greater storm.

That night in the common room, everyone distracted themselves from said dread by focusing on homework, playing games or just generally socialising. The group of friends were huddled around the fireplace in their usual seats, watching Ron thrash Alec at a game of chess, whilst Hermione worked on some revision, discussing the coming year. At one point, Harry pulled Ginny aside so he could talk with her privately.

"How was it?"

Ginny didn't need further explanation over what Harry was asking. "It was…bearable."

Harry's lips formed a thin line as he reached out to squeeze her hand. "Did anyone give you trouble?"

"No. I think very few people are even remotely aware of what happened last year, most just avoid me because I didn't really connect with anyone last year." Ginny sighed, "Without Rose and Luna…"

Squeezing Ginny's hand, a little harder, Harry got her attention from wandering. "Whatever happens, you know I'm there for you."

Ginny nodded and offered a small smile, but once again it appeared strained. "I keep having nightmares again. They were getting better but since coming here…with the Dementors, it's like they've started up all over again."

There was a silence between them as Harry mulled over Ginny's words, thinking about his own nightmare last night. "I've been having them more often as well, except mine are about…about my mother."

"Oh Harry…" Ginny felt her heart go out to him.

Harry didn't say anything, choosing to instead offer a supporting smile, pulling Ginny closer to him so she could rest her head on his shoulder. The move wasn't missed by their friends, alongside the others in the common room. There were various whispers and stares from the older years, and the Twins had a concerningly mischievous look in their eyes as they huddled together.

That night, Harry once again had a nightmare about his mother, this time he awoke to the screaming plea of his mum as she tried to protect her children. Covered in a thin sheen of sweat, Harry decided that he more than likely wasn't going to be getting anymore sleep, so instead he spent the rest of the early morning dawn preparing himself for his upcoming lessons, alongside wrapping Rose's birthday present.

Once the early mornings first rays of sunlight began to light up the dorm room, Harry decided to make his way downstairs. Nobody was up yet, leaving him to happily sit and read his Ancient Runes textbook in peace. He was expecting to have his first lesson in said elective that morning, followed by Arithmancy in the afternoon and finally Remus and his DADA class last. Of all of them, Harry was looking forward to seeing Remus teach, the most.

As the castle began to stir out from its slumber, Harry began to be joined by the early risers. Of course, Hermione was one of the earliest to get up, giving him a concerned look as she found him hunched over his book.

"You're up awfully early, Harry."

Harry just shrugged and offered a smile. "I woke up early and couldn't get back to sleep, so I decided to do a little prep work for this morning."

Hearing that Harry was preparing himself seemed to launch Hermione into a flurry of excitement as she discussed what they could possibly be learning to start with. Not long afterwards, Rose, Luna and Ginny joined Harry and Hermione. It wasn't a surprise to Harry to find his sister looking bushy eyed and alert, ready for the day, when of course it was in fact her 12th birthday.

Pulling his sister down next to him, Harry offered Rose and magnificently tight hug that put Mrs Weasley to shame. "Happy birthday Rosie!"

Trying to pry out of her brothers' arms, albeit half-heartedly as he showered kisses down on her, Rose slapped her brothers arm as she squealed. "Cut it out! You can be so annoying!"

"Well now, if you're going to act like that, I'll just have to give Hermione your present instead." Harry joked, "After all, she'll be 14 in a few weeks."

Rose gave her brother an incredulous look. "I think you have enough sense in you to know how to keep yourself alive dear brother."

"That almost sounds like a threat." Harry grinned, "Besides, aren't I allowed to shower my sister in affection? I do recall you stating that I don't do it as often as I should."

"I'm now regretting those words…" Rose moaned.

The group chatted for the rest of the morning, being joined by Ron and Alec earlier than the previous day. Much like the day before, breakfast was a simple affair, albeit with members of Rose's year dropping by to wish her a happy birthday. Zeus also made a visit with a letter attached to his leg for his mistress, earning himself a treat from Rose as she relieved him of his burden.

"Who's it from?" Harry peered over his sister's shoulder to get a better look.

"Mind your own business mister!" Rose whacked Harry on the nose with said letter, "If you really must know, it's just from Grandpa and Grandma, wishing me a happy birthday and telling me that their present would be delivered tonight."

"Think you can wait that long?" Alec teased.

In response, Rose was quick to throw a slice of buttered bread at his head, scoring a direct hit between his eyes. "Watch it you! Otherwise, the next thing coming at your head will be a hardboiled egg!"

"Can we not waste the food people!" Ron cried out.

"For once I'm in agreement with Ron here, perhaps starting a food fight is a bad idea for the second day back…" Hermione fretted as she helped Alec clean himself up.

Rose pouted as she crossed her arms and glared at Alec, who was grinning in victory. Thankfully the Great Hall was spared by a food fight massacre as the hallways chimed with bells, signalling that class were set to begin soon. Racing to finish their food and drinks, the group split up once again, with third years heading to electives whilst second years headed to the basement for potions.

Ancient Runes was a completely new experience to Harry, one that he wasn't quite sure what to think. Professor Babbling was nice enough, although she had a habit of rambling on at times, reminding Harry of when Hermione would get excited about a subject. The text book was something Harry was rather familiar with now, having studied it over the summer holidays, this left him at an advantage over most of the other students, excluding Hermione of course. He had no doubt in his mind that Hermione had read the textbook at least twice, if not more.

The lesson was simple to begin with, deciphering messages made from Proto-Germanic Runes using the cipher in the textbook. Professor Babbling made a game of it, letting students create their own messages before scattering them amongst their fellow students, making students guess who created them. Harrys was received by Susan Bones, whilst the message he received belonged to another third year Ravenclaw. It took him a good 20 minutes to decipher the message, rolling his eyes at the very Ravenclaw message, a riddle; 'Give it food and it will live; give it water and it will die'. It took Harry a moment to answer the riddle, thinking about food as fuel for the body, and there was only one thing that wanted fuel without wanting water…fire. Harry impressed the Ravenclaw by replying to the riddle with a fire rune, earning himself a nod of appreciation. By the time 2 hours had passed, Harry felt like he had a firm understanding of some of the basic Runes they'd be using this year, although he wasn't looking forward to the extra added homework of three new elective classes. He's managed to swap a study period over for Care of Magical creatures, purely for the fact that Hagrid would be teaching it. He knew that eventually he'd have to drop some of his subjects, but Harry thought that he could start with some of the least important first, like History of Magic and Astronomy.

After a short break, Harry and Hermione headed towards the Arithmancy classroom, where Professor Vector was waiting for them. Professor Vector was known for her strict and old-fashioned teaching methods, preferring tried and true methods rather than experimental practices that made classrooms much more interesting. In Harrys mind, Professor Vector was perhaps the younger, less caring version of Professor McGonagall, perhaps the latter had made an impression on the former. Arithmancy itself was a rather difficult subject, although Harry found that most of it was once again using a cipher, or in this case a formula, to solve set equations of numbers in the hopes of predicting the future. There was also the study of the power of magical numbers, such as seven, the most powerful number of all, as well as numbers representing the finality or beginning of a sequence, such as the last or first year of a decade or the last or first day of a month. Harry couldn't help but notice that his birthday fell on three of these circumstances, the last day of the seventh month in the first year of a new decade. It was slightly eerie to him, thinking back to what Dumbledore had told him a couple nights ago about how Voldemort was fascinated by him.

Harry was drawn out of his thoughts by Professor Vector slamming down a stack of papers onto her desk, shocking him back to reality. The task that Vector set them was simple enough, she'd created a sequence of numbers that would need to be solved, giving them an insight as to an event that would occur at the end of the class. Harry worked together with Hermione and another Hufflepuff student to solve the equation, although it was mostly Hermione and himself doing most of the work. It appeared as though most Wizards and Witches only had a basic understanding of mathematics, whilst Muggleborns, or those who went through the Muggle education system, were far better equipped for the task. By the end of the 30-minute allotted time, Harry and Hermione had deduced that the class would be visited by someone invested in the stars. Hermione guessed that perhaps Professor Sinistra would be visiting them, as she was their astronomy teacher. Harry had to agree, it seemed like the logical choice, and so they presented their answer to Professor Vector, who only gave them a firm nod to say that their deciphering was correct, although she did not inform them if their guess was correct.

So, when, towards the end of the class, a knock came at the door of the classroom, Harry and Hermione were thoroughly surprised to see none other than Remus Lupin in the doorway.

"Sorry to interrupt Professor Vector, but I've been informed that there's a Boggart hiding in one of the wardrobes in here. I was hoping I could borrow it for my next lesson?"

Vector gave Remus a curt nod as she stepped aside. "Be my guest. The last thing I need in here is a Boggart interrupting my lesson."

Remus nodded his thanks as he levitated the entire wardrobe out the door. He stopped to give Harry a quick wink before continuing with his mission. "Now, who here can tell me they were expecting our newest Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher?" Professor Vector asked.

Not a single hand went up. "I didn't expect as much. For those of you who did decipher the equation correctly, you most likely predicted that Professor Sinistra would arrive. Unfortunately, that is not the case, as I was very much aware of the presence of a Boggart in here and thus informed Professor Dumbledore. He no doubt made Professor Lupin aware of this detail."

One Ravenclaw student raised their hand and interrupted the Professors lesson. "Are you saying you set this all up? Then how is that predicting the future?"

"In future I expect you to wait to be called upon." Vector frowned at the student, "But to answer your question, you were the ones predicting the future. Just because I knew of its happening, does not mean that everyone did. That is the beauty of Arithmancy, the ability to see into the future and predict the plans of others, to thwart attacks before they even begin. Entire divisions of the Ministry's Auror department were devoted to predicting You know Who's movements, as well as his followers. Their predictions saved hundreds of lives. That is only one part of this study."

The consequences of Professor Vectors words remained quite heavy on Harry's mind, who processed the information. If numbers could really be used to predict the future, then just how powerful were they? What else could numbers do? Once again, his thoughts were interrupted as Hermione tugged on his sleeve, making him aware that the class had ended.

With morning classes finished, Harry and Hermione headed towards the Great Hall for lunch, where they could discuss the latest developments with their friends, who had a free study period and Divination. The Great Hall was a flurry of activity as students chatted to friends and classmates, all whilst enjoying the delicious food provided to them by the castle. Harry and Hermione found the rest of their friends congregated in the middle of the Gryffindor table. Making a beeline straight towards them, Harry immediately noticed the slumped shoulders of Ginny, who sat there pushing her food around her plate. In comparison, Rose was absolutely bouncing in her seat, talking excitedly about her classes and her birthday celebrations once classes had concluded.

Sliding in between Rose and Ginny, Harry leaned over and gave his sister a peck on the cheek. "Did you survive, sister dearest?"

"Just barely. Professor Snape is really pushing us already this year, he spared no quarter that's for sure."

"He seemed rather interested in deducting points from Gryffindor." Luna commented, "Perhaps Nurglesprouts have made a cocoon in his frontal cortex, clouding his impartial judgement."

Everyone looked at Luna as if she'd grown a second head, although the moment was lost rather quickly as Rose continued. "In any case, he was more than happy to deduct points from Luna, even though her potion was the same shade as Ginny and I's!"

"Yeah, that sounds like Snape alright…" Ron sighed.

"How was Divination anyway?" Harry asked Ron and Alec.

"Ask Hermione, it was a bloody nightmare." Alec joined in the sighing.

Harry turned to look at his other best friend, finding her noncommittally reading her Arithmancy textbook. "But…Hermione was with me in Arithmancy?"

"She couldn't have been, we saw her in Divination!" Ron exclaimed.

"Honestly boys, I think you're both mistaken. It's not as if I can be in two places at once." Hermione waved off the accusations as she continued her lunch time reading.

"But…but…" Harry wasn't done with the conversation, wanting to know more, but was interrupted by a rather welcome figure.

"Hello you lot." Remus Lupin smiled down at his new and upcoming students, "How were your elective classes today?"

Harry smiled up at his uncle. "They were good. Professor Babbling is a little…babbling, and Professor Vector is almost as strict as McGonagall, but over all the subjects are interesting!"

"That's good! Sirius will be pleased to hear you're enjoying it so far. He quite liked Arithmancy, whilst I was more inline with Ancient Runes." Remus explained, "Anyway, I did come here with a purpose. Rose, Harry, would you care to join me in my quarters tonight for a little birthday dinner, instead of down here?"

Rose nodded her head straight away. "Absolutely, we'd love to!"

"Then it's settled, come after last period and I'll have the kitchens send up something nice to eat for your birthday."

Giving the group a wave goodbye, and a ruffle of Rose's hair, Remus departed to head up to the staff table. As Rose babbled on to the rest of the group about her birthday, Harry used the lull in the conversation to focus on Ginny. She was still hunched over, not really touching her food, only partially interacting with those around her.

"How was it?"

"It was what it was." Ginny said simply, letting out a sigh.

Harry wrapped an arm around her middle and pulled her just that ever bit closer. "Would you like to join Rose and I tonight?"

Looking up into Harry's eyes, Ginny searched for the sincerity she knew was there. "I could never impose on you like that…"

"Nonsense." Harry interrupted, "Rose would love to have you there, and so would I, so long as you can put up with an old Marauder."

There was a faint smile on Ginny's lips as Harry joked about Remus. "Only if, you're sure."

"I'm deadly sure, Rose would love her best friend to be there."

Finally, Harry earnt a full smile from Ginny, who in turn pushed herself even closer into his embrace. She didn't want to tell him about the whispers she had heard on her way from potions, how students pointed and stared and said mean things under their breath as she passed. Ginny thought that she'd be safe from rumours, but it appears that nothing is really safe in the Hogwarts rumour mill.

Turning to his sister, Harry leaned down to whisper in Rose's ear. "Invite Ginny to your birthday dinner tonight, I think she could use the pick-me-up."

Rose's head turned to look at Harry, seeing the concerning look in his eyes at once. Without a second though, Rose nodded her head and smiled an affirmative to Harry's plan.

The rest of lunch was a much more subdued affair, with all attention directed towards Rose. Harry and Ron however, where also giving each other silent looks in promise to investigate Hermione's whereabouts.

"So, Ron, what happened in Divination anyway?" Harry asked.

Ron shook his head. "Professor Trelawny, she's a nutter I tell you. Had us reading tea leaves, apparently, you're going to die soon."

Harry raised his eyebrows in surprise. "Am I? What from? And how soon are we talking?"

"No idea mate, all she told me was that my leaves were arranged in a way that meant there was a Grim attached to someone close to me, kinda just assumed it was you."

"What's a Grim?" Rose asked, a little concerned that it potentially meant something bad would happen to her brother.

"Usually it represents death." Hermione explained, "Although it can also mean great misfortune or something going horrible wrong. But I think it's all a load of rubbish."

"Perhaps you should open your mind further then Hermione." Luna broke in, "After all, Divination is still a magical practise."

Feeling miffed, Hermione huffed as she slammed her book shut with a bang. "The other magic subjects all have a grounding in reality! Divination is just interpretation and personal opinion!"

"Is that not Arithmancy though?" Harry butt in.

Looking absolutely scandalous, Hermione spluttered. "Absolutely not! Arithmancy uses the practise of magical numbers to give insight into the future, through careful use of mathematical science!"

"But Hermione, it is really about guessing, I mean, we had to guess who was going to come visit the class." Harry responded.

Hermione glared at Harry for a good while longer before she sighed. "I guess. But Arithmancy is much more complicated than Divination."

"Maybe it's just complicated in its own way, whilst Divination has its own perks and banes." Rose suggested, trying to be the voice of reason amongst the arguing teens.

Everyone appreciated Rose's input, although Hermione did look like she wanted to continue arguing. Before they could though, the end of lunch bell chimed through the halls, signally that it was time to head off to their last lesson for the day. For Harry and his friends, it meant their first lesson with Remus as their DADA professor.

Making their way through the halls again, students were anxiously talking about their new teacher, wondering what he'd be like, or how long he'd last. Harry himself was feeling giddy for Remus, although if Rose was to be believed, then Remus was doing a fine job already. When they stepped into the DADA classroom, the first thing that greeted them was the wardrobe that Remus had taken from the Arithmancy classroom this morning. All the chairs and desks had been pushed to one side, leaving plenty of space in the middle for everyone to congregate. The third-year students stood around in groups, waiting for their new professor, chatting amongst themselves excitedly, wondering what was about to happen. Once everyone had arrived, the door leading to the DADA professor's office opened as Remus strode into the classroom with a wide grin on his face.

"Welcome to third year Defence against the Dark Arts!" Remus said, "Now, I know that for all of you, the last two years have seen two different professors in this subjects with varying degrees of success in their teaching methods."

There was a murmur amongst the students, with some even giggling as they remembered Lockhart's incompetence. "In any case, I hope to break that cycle and provide to you all a well-rounded school year, with both theoretical AND practical lessons."

Hearing that they'd be able to do some practical defence magic sent another wave of excited whispering through the students. "For the first part of this lesson, I've managed to procure us one of our studied dark creatures for this year…a Boggart! Can anyone tell me what a Boggart is?"

Hermione's hand was the first to shoot up, although there were several other hands as well, including Ron's. "Mr Weasley, can you tell the class what a Boggart is?"

"It's a creature that takes the form of your…your greatest fear." Ron gulped, only wondering what his could be.

"That is correct, Mr Weasley. 5 points to Gryffindor." Remus smiled, "Now, would anyone like to add on to that statement?"

Once again, Hermione's hand was in the air at once. "Miss Granger, the floor is yours."

"Professor, a Boggart is an amortal shape shifter that often lurks in dark areas, preying on the fear of Magical and Muggle individuals alike. No one truly knows what a Boggart looks like in their natural form, as they take the form of their targets fear before it is revealed." Hermione took a breath as she finished her explanation, looking chuffed. Ron just rolled his eyes, but smiled nonetheless.

"Very good Miss Granger." Remus smirked, "Perhaps though, you could leave some of the teaching to myself as well? 10 points to Gryffindor."

Although the joke was good natured, Hermione still blushed. "Now, the way one defeats a Boggart, is really quite simple. The incantation is Riddikulus, alongside a simple flick of the wrist. It is important however, that you picture a happy or funny thought and how you'd like to see your fear pictured."

Everyone was looking a little nervous now, wondering what their fear would be. Seeing that his class was getting unsettled, Remus sort to relieve them. "Don't panic now, I'm right here to intervene, if necessary, no harm will come to any of you. Now, can we all get into a line and face the wardrobe. Once everyone is ready, I'll unlock it and free the Boggart."

The students arranged themselves in a line, with Neville somehow ending up in front. The boy looked completely out of his depth, fearing the worst as he readied his wand in his hand. Remus though, simply stood by him and placed a gentle hand on Neville's shoulder. "You can do this Neville, are you ready?"

Gathering his courage, Neville took a deep breath and nodded. With a flick of his wand, Remus unlocked the wardrobe. The door creaked open, and slowly a leg appeared, and then a hand. Everyone gasped when they saw the face of Professor Snape peer out from behind the door, his legendary glare levelled on Neville. Exiting the wardrobe, the Boggart began to slowly march towards Neville, who was now frozen in terror. Seeing that his student was stuck, Remus leaned down and whispered something in Neville's ear. It must have worked, as Neville stood a little taller and levelled his wand at the Snape Boggart.

"Riddikulus!" Neville shouted. There was a bang as the Snape Boggart twirled in place, before stopping on the spot. Gone were the classics robes of Professor Snape, instead there stood the potion master dressed in what could only be described as an older aristocratic woman's garb.

"Neville! Is that what your grandmother wears?" Dean called out in surprise.

Neville nodded as he smiled, letting out a weak laugh. "I pictured Professor Snape wearing Gran's clothes, even that ridiculous stuffed vulture hat she wears."

Everyone let out a laugh as they watched the Snape Boggart try to walk on uneven heels, stumbling as it tried to make its way back to the wardrobe. "Very good Neville! 5 points to Gryffindor! Now, who's next?"

Seamus was next up, giving everyone a fright as the Snape Boggart turned into a screeching Banshee. Covering his ears, Seamus was given a look of encouragement from Remus, giving him the strength to cast Riddikulus. The Banshee seemingly lost its voice, its hands reaching up to its throat in panic. After Seamus, Dean was next, with his disembodied living hand chasing after him along the floor before getting stuck in a mouse trap. After that, Padma Patil's giant snake turned into a Jack-In-The-Box, followed by her sister Parvati's Mummy tripping over its own bandages.

Ron was finally up next, following on from Lavender Browns rabid tiger which turned into a ginger housecat. Steeling his resolve, Ron stepped up wand in hand and made ready for what he could only presume would happen. His gut feelings were correct however, as the ginger housecat turned into a large Acromantula, based off of Aragog. The eight-legged beast came rushing towards Ron, who had to receive a brief shove in the back from Hermione to remind him to cast the spell.

"Riddikulus!" Ron cried out. The Acromantula suddenly began to flail around on the ground, unable to get a grip. On every one of its eight legs, there was a roller-skate attached to where its feet would normally be. Ron was joined by the class in watching as the giant spider was unable to move, only tripping and slipping whenever it tried to move its legs.

"Very well-done Ron! Hermione, you're up." Remus said.

Ron shot Hermione a good luck smile as he brushed passed her, sending a thrill down to her stomach. Hermione had to admit that she was nervous, because truly there was not a lot that frightened her easily, which left it all a big mystery. The fact that it was a mystery in itself was enough to scare her, but Hermione did the same as Ron and everyone else and sort out her courage before stepping forward to allow the Boggart to latch on. Immediately, the spider ceased its movements before spinning in place and turning into someone nobody really expected.

"You've failed everything Miss Granger! I cannot believe that I ever thought you to be anything more than a failure!" A stern and angry looking Professor McGonagall stood in place of the giant spider, holding up a piece of parchment that represented Hermione's results.

"Never in all my years of teaching have I ever seen such a disgraceful performance! You'll simply have to repeat the year, or perhaps even leave the castle and the magical world forever!"

Everyone was a little shocked by the appearance of their Transfiguration professor, none more so than Remus. He had to place a steadying hand on Hermione's shoulder as she started to feel tears stain her cheeks. "Remember Hermione, it's not real, it's only your greatest fear. Now summon up that Lions bravery and give that Boggart what for!" Remus encouraged.

Sucking in a deep breath, Hermione levelled her wand at the creature and cast Riddikulus. The changes were obvious at once. "In all my years of teaching I have never met a finer student!"

Hermione smiled as she watched the now transformed McGonagall Boggart begin to praise her. "You'll simply have to be made head girl. I don't see why one day you couldn't become Minister for Magic!"

Feeling chuffed with herself, Hermione thanked Remus for his support before heading to the back of the line. After Hermione, Alec was next, stepping up to the front with a stomach full of butterflies. One of the first thoughts that went through his head was which monstrosity of the Australian Outback was about to attack him. It came as a surprise then that when the Boggart latched itself onto Alec, it did not turn into any wild creature, rather it turned into a shabby looking wizard with a gnarled face and broken smile. "Your mum should've just given me the money son."

Alec paled as the creature spoke to him. This was a face that he knew all too well, but hadn't seen in many years now. Raising his wand, Alec watched as the creature laughed maliciously, before firing off the needed charm. Instead of some comedic rendition of Alec's greatest fear, the man the creature disguised at simply disappeared, leaving only his robes behind.

Letting out a steadying breath, Alec shut his eyes for a moment as the class was filled with silence. It took the gentle pressure of Remus' hand on his shoulder to finally stir the boy from his thoughts. "I'm alright Professor." Alec said simply.

"Take this at least, it'll help." Remus pulled out a small Honeydukes chocolate bar, handing it to Alec.

Nodding his head in thanks, Alec returned to the back of the line, nodding at a concerned looking Harry as he stepped up to the front.

"Lucky last Mr Potter." Remus grinned, "The floor is yours."

Feeling giddy, Harry stepped up and readied himself. He didn't know what to expect, however Remus was standing close to him, giving Harry the thought that he'd intervene in case Harry's greatest fear was Voldemort.

Thinking about it though, Harry wasn't really afraid of Voldemort himself…instead there was a great hatred for him instead of fear. So, when the robes that Alec's Boggart had turned into began to move and twist and turn, Harry wasn't in the least bit surprised to find himself facing a Dementor of Azkaban. The creature began to haunt its way towards Harry, who found himself being filled with dread and terror. There was a scream once again in his head and he felt himself become lightheaded, before suddenly it was gone.

Remus had stepped forward to allow the Boggart to latch itself onto him. The Dementor was instantly replaced by a luminescent Moon, hovering in the sky with clouds obscuring it only ever so slightly. With a loud and deliberate Riddikulus, Remus turned the moon into a deflated balloon, that whizzed around the room.

Remus turned to the class once more. "Now! What really finishes a Boggart is a good hearty laugh, so, if everyone could join me in laughing at this frankly ridiculous display…1…2…3!" Everyone broke out into a hearty laugh, all except Harry who was still a little lightheaded. The Deflated balloon continued to whizz around the room before popping with a bang and a shower of sparkles.

"That was excellent everyone! Well done! Now, I hope that you all learned something here today, that whilst even simple and relatively harmless creatures such as Boggarts can be defeated with a simple spell, it is not always as easy as it was today. Some days all it takes is your demeanour to give a Boggart, or any creature for that matter, the upper hand." Remus explained, "That is why we must learn how to defend ourselves properly, and know the right spells and how to use them."

With a flick of his wand, Remus began to move the desks and chairs back into the centre of the room. "With that little practical session out the way, I thought it best that we discuss what will be happening over the course of the year, as well as what you as students want to achieve."

Students began to file into their regular seats, looking rather excited at the prospect of what they'd be learning from what already seemed like a very accomplished teacher. For the next half hour or so, Remus talked the combined Ravenclaw and Gryffindor class about what they could expect going forward from then. They'd be mixing practical and theory lessons so that there was a 50/50 mix of the two. Also, Remus informed them that they'd be going outside for physical training once per week, starting next week, if the weather permitted, otherwise they would practise inside the classroom. Everyone was seemingly, thoroughly interested in Remus' teaching style and were looking forward to the year ahead.

Towards the end of the lesson, Remus asked the class what they'd like to gain from Defence Against the Dark Arts, and how they think they went in today's lesson. Those that responded tended to say the same thing, that they wanted to know how to protect themselves, with many of them also saying that they need to improve on their bravery.

Finally, the lesson came to an end and students began to pile out of the classroom, waving to their new favourite Professor and gossiping amongst each other as they headed to dinner in the Great Hall. Harry however, stayed behind, as he'd be having dinner with his sister up in Remus' quarters.

"So, how'd I go?"

Remus came over to where Harry was leaning against a desk. "Brilliant! Beyond brilliant! I can see now why everyone is raving about you, so now people can't say I'm bias."

"Well, they still can." Remus grinned, "But thank you for the vote of confidence. I was a little nervous about this lesson, you never quite know what peoples Boggarts will be."

Harry's face grimaced as he pictured his own Boggart. "I guess I didn't really expect to see a Dementor. I was sort of expecting Voldemort."

"If I'm honest, so was I, hence why I was ready to step in." Remus smiled, "But you surprised me in more ways than one today. The fact that your Boggart is a Dementor means that your fear…is fear itself."

Raising an eyebrow, Harry looked at his uncle in confusion. "But…aren't Dementors my fear?"

"No Harry, you fear the feeling that they give, that sense of fear and dread in you when they approach, the way they exploit your memories as a weakness."

"That…makes sense." Thinking about it, Harry had to admit that he mostly feared Dementors for the effect they had on him rather than the creatures themselves.

"That's why I think we have a unique opportunity here cub." Remus grinned, "I'd like to start teaching you something called the Patronus charm."

Harry raised an eyebrow. "What's that?"

Pulling out his wand, Remus stood up straight and aimed his wand as he shouted out. "Expecto Patronum!"

A great silvery wolf came charging out of Remus' wand, dashing between the desks and chairs before it faded into a fine mist. "That, Harry, is the Patronus charm, and that is my Patronus. It's a force of pure energy, created by happy, loving memories, enough to overwhelm a Dementor and force them back."

"It would protect me from Dementors?" Harry's eyes lit up.

"It would, and already has. I used it to chase off the Dementor that attacked you on the train. I must warn you though Harry, that this spell is incredibly difficult, and is normally reserved for 7th years. And even then, not everyone can perform a Corporeal Patronus, as you just saw, most just produce a shield of energy." Remus explained, "But, that being said, if I had to place a bet on it, I'd say you're more than capable."

Blushing, Harry stared at his shoes as he tried to hide his embarrassment. "Thanks uncle Moony…that...that means a lot."

Remus placed a hand on Harry's shoulder as he came to lean against the same desk. "You're a brilliant young man, Harry, and nothing will change that. But now it's time to properly get you equipped for the fight ahead."

Nodding, Harry leaned himself against his uncle, savouring the moment. Of course, nothing lasts forever, with interruptions abound to happen. This time, it was the banging of the DADA door as a very excited looking Rose came bounding in, followed by a more contained Ginny.

"UNCLE REMUS!" Rose came flying through the classroom towards Remus with her arms out spread, impacting with enough force to knock him off his balance.

"Careful Rose petal, I'm not as young as I use to be." Remus grinned as he ruffled Rose's hair.

"Nonsense!" Rose grinned, "You look barely a day over 20!"

Remus rolled his eyes. "Now I know that's an embellishment."

Pouting, Rose pulled away from Remus, hooking herself arm in arm around Ginny. "I brought Ginny along as well! I thought we could use some more company."

Feeling nervous, Ginny gave everyone an awkward smile. "If you don't want me here that's fine…"

"NO!" Harry called out, before catching his voice, "No…it's alright, we all want you here."

A blush spread up from Ginny's neck as she looked at Harry with a smile. "Then it's settled! More company the better anyway." Rose spoke up, smirking at her brother.

Linking her arm through Ginny's, Rose pulled her best friend along as Remus lead them up the stairs and into the DADA professor's office. "I haven't been in here yet!" Rose exclaimed.

"I have." Harry said, "It's much better laid out than last time." Shuddering at the memory of Lockhart's egotistical furniture, Harry thought that Remus' setup was much more appropriate. In the corner sat a small bookshelf with some titles that Harry knew were defence orientated books or books about dark creatures. There was also a number of gadgets that Harry had no idea what they were for, alongside a coat rack that held Remus' wizards pointed hat, a few cloaks and his muggle petticoats.

Following on through the office, Remus lead them through another door which opened up into a small living quarter. It wasn't impressive by any remark, but it was better than nothing. The main room was a combined living, dining and kitchenette, all arranged into separate triads with a fireplace set in the middle. There was also another door off the kitchen that Harry assumed was the bedroom and ensuite.

The dining section only had a small table that looked like it sat two, or three at a squeeze. But with a flick of his wand, Remus expanded the table so it could quite easily fit 6, although there were 5 chairs around the table.

"Expecting someone else Moony?" Harry asked upon seeing the spare chair.

Remus gave a knowing smirk but declined to answer, instead he grabbed everyone a cold bottle of Butterbeer from the small cool cupboard in the kitchen. "Here, try some of this. It's not quite the same as Madam Rosmerta's warm Butterbeer, but it does the trick."

None of them were yet to try Butterbeer, so as soon as the three teens cracked open the bottles and poured the amber liquid down their throats, they were met with the surprisingly euphoric sweet taste of butterscotch.

"That…that's amazing!" Harry said, taking another swig of his drink, "Why have we never tried this before?"

"It's supposed to be something you have the first time you go to Hogsmeade, as a little treat. I thought since it is Rose's birthday that it'll be nice to have something special." Remus explained, "Besides, your sister won't be able to have any more until she's able to go to Hogsmeade next year."

"Bugger that!" Rose huffed, "We're getting some in at home if it's the last thing I do. You've got me hooked now Uncle Remus!"

Everyone laughed at that, even Ginny, who was decidedly looking awkward, nursing her drink. Guiding the group over to the table, Remus pulled out a couple of bowls full of crisps to serve to the table before heading off into the bedroom. "Now, stay right here you lot, I just have to grab Rose's present."

All three nodded their head and continued to talk amongst themselves, that was until they were interrupted by the fireplace roaring to life. Harry was ready to reach for his wand when he recognised his other uncle. "Uncle Siri!" Harry grinned.

"Hey troublemakers…ooft!" All the wind was crushed out of Sirius' lungs as Rose ran over and impacted with an almighty force.

"You made it! I had no idea you'd be coming!"

Sirius just grinned as he ruffled Rose's hair. "You didn't think I was going to forget my little Rose petals 12th birthday now, did you?"

Hearing Sirius refer to her as his 'little rose petal' made Rose tear up a bit, believing it would've been the same thing her father would've called her. Once Rose untangled herself from him, Sirius pulled out a couple of packages that he'd shrunk to fit in his pocket. "Now, this is from me…" He passed off one package, "And this is from your Grandma and Grandpa."

Rose took both packages with restrained excitement, taking them over to a small coffee table that sat in the middle of the living area. "Do I get to open them now?" Rose excitedly asked.

"Not yet Rose Petal." Sirius chuckled, "Wait until after dinner."

At that moment, Remus came back out with another package, smiling when he saw his old friend. "I thought I heard the fireplace go; I'm surprised you're on time for once."

"Hey! I'm trying to get better with my tardiness!" Sirius defended himself.

Letting out a chuckle, Remus embraced Sirius in a quick hug before giving his own present to Rose, who promptly stored it with the other two.

"Now, I've instructed the kitchens to send some food up in about 15 minutes, so we've plenty of time to have a chat and catch up." Remus said.

"It's only been two days Rem, what could've happened since then?" Sirius laughed.

There was a rather serious glint in Remus' eyes. "Besides the Hogwarts express being attacked by Dementors?"

Sirius face lost all its jovialness, turning dark instead. "What…"

Remus went on to explain what occurred on September 1st, including the one Dementor that latched onto Harry. Throughout it, Sirius was looking more and more livid by the series of events that occurred to his godson. By the time Remus had told the entire story, including what Dumbledore had relayed to him, Sirius was looking infuriated. He knew more than anyone else what the Dementors were capable of, having spent almost 10 years around them 24/7. It took a gentle hand on his wrist to finally pull him out of his anger.

Rose was looking up at her godfather with pleading eyes, imploring him to calm down. "Sorry Rose Petal, that was a little too much for me to handle, that's all."

"We'll deal with it as it happens Uncle Siri. Just be thankful Uncle Moony was there to help." Rose said.

Giving his goddaughter a tight smile, Sirius nodded and turned to Remus, giving him a knowing smile. "Thanks Rem."

"No need to thank me, we both made a promise, remember?"

Nodding, Sirius reminded himself of the promise the pair had made, to look after the two Potters.

Whilst the two adults reconvened over past events again, Harry was busy talking to Ginny in hushed tones. He was once again concerned about her wellbeing, seeing her hunched over at the table at Lunch was incredibly concerning to him. "What happened?"

Normally Ginny would skirt around answering that question if anyone else asked, but this wasn't anyone else…this was her Harry. "Just…people whispering about me." She said, "Pointing and staring. It could be because I'm a Weasley but I doubt it. I think people are beginning to put two and two together and spread around the news that I'm the girl that almost killed off the Muggleborn population."

Gritting his teeth, Harry felt himself seething at the possibility that people were blaming Ginny for the events of the previous year. It took the quiet yelp from Ginny to bring him back to reality as he realised, he'd been squeezing her hand too hard. "Sorry Gin, it's just…it's not right."

Shrugging, Ginny continued to put her head down. "It is what it is. People were going to find out one way or another. No doubt Malfoy was informed by daddy dearest."

"I should blast them both into pieces." Harry frothed.

"That would only put you behind bars…and then what would I do without you?" Ginny said quietly.

The thought that Ginny couldn't picture herself without him sent a funny feeling down into the pits of Harry's stomach. Somehow, he knew that he would say the exact same thing. Before he could though, the two adults in the room finished up with their conversation, with Sirius directing questions about Arithmancy to Harry.

For the next 10 minutes or so, the group chatted and caught up on how the students' classes were going. Remus was surprised that Professor Vector had set a task predicting his entrance into the classroom, looking a little concerned when Harry asked him why it said he was invested in the stars.

"Probably because he's always thinking about me, hey Rem." Sirius grinned, "There always were rumours about us you know."

Remus appeared to make a gagging sound, eliciting a laugh from everyone present. "No offence Padfoot, but even you're not good looking enough to make me swing the other way."

"I take great offence to that Moony." Sirius pretended to be hurt, "I always had a special place in my heart for you that no other witch or wizard could fill!"

Remus rolled his eyes at the overly dramatic performance that Sirius was putting on. "Alright you old mutt, cut it out before I have to leash you up."

"Oooh Remus, promises, promises."

Remus was quick to whack Sirius on the head with a rolled-up newspaper before he could say anything more to scar the teens present. Thankfully it seemed to go over everyone's head as they chuckled at Sirius being put in his place.

Soon after there was a gentle chime that sounded off throughout the room. Remus clapped his hands together and grinned. "That would be our dinner! Everyone, make sure the table is clear."

Everyone scrambled to clear the table of all unnecessary items, before suddenly plates, cutlery and dishes full of food appeared in front of them. "Wicked!" Harry grinned, "How does that work?"

"Elf magic, Harry." Remus grinned, "It's different from our magic, it's ancient and complex, something that not even the wisest and most venerable of our kind can understand."

"You mean house elves make the food at Hogwarts?" Rose asked.

Sirius nodded. "They do almost all of the menial labour in the castle, from cooking to cleaning and even getting your luggage up to your rooms."

"That sounds terribly like slavery…" Rose frowned.

"To an outsider it does appear to be rather uncivilized, but elves draw their magic directly from their 'masters' or 'owners'. The elves here at Hogwarts draw their magic directly from the castle, meaning they serve no one and everyone at the same time. It's very egalitarian, but I must admit that there are plenty of owners who mistreat their elves." Sirius let out a sigh.

Harry thought back to how Dobby was treated by Malfoy senior, how Dobby would constantly feel the need to punish himself for even the smallest degree of disloyalty. In that moment, Harry felt a deep shame rise up in his gut as he remembered how he loathed the little house elf for sending the bludger after him. He should have recognised the signs of abuse, after all he'd been a victim of it himself.

Sirius must've seen the pensive look on Harry's face, leaning over to squeeze his shoulder to gain his attention. "You alright Pup?"

"Yeah, I'm fine." Harry lied, "Just remembering Dobby."

"That silly little elf that tried to 'save' you?" Rose frowned, "What about him?"

Harry frowned at Rose's comment. "He was abused terribly by the Malfoy's, and he could've just let his master try and kill me but he didn't, he tried the best ways he could to protect me."

Rose was thoughtful for a moment, before she nodded slowly. "You're right. I'm sorry."

"There's nothing to apologise for." Harry smiled, "Now come on, lets eat before it goes cold."

"There's probably a warming charm on it anyway." Ginny quipped, giving Harry a grin.

The pair looked at each other for a moment before Harry looked away, blushing. Sirius and Remus both noticed the interaction with mild interest. Sirius had already informed Remus of Harry and his conversation that they had towards the end of the holidays and how Harry believed that he knew Ginny from another life. It was both fascinating and terrifying at the same time, for both of them.

All thoughts of house elves or past lives were put aside in that moment though, as the small group of revellers piled their plates full and enjoyed the good food that the house elves of Hogwarts had prepared them especially. About half an hour after the main course arrived, there was another chime throughout the room as dirty dishes and empty serving platters vanished, only to be replaced by a fresh set of cutlery and dishes. In the centre of the table however, was a new addition to their meal, a strawberry shortcake, coated in pink frosting and freshly cut strawberries on top. Rose squealed in delight as she took sight of the cake, which had 12 candles already lit and ready to be blown out stuck atop of it.

"This is amazing! Did the kitchens make it?" Rose asked.

Remus grinned and shook his head. "Actually no, your grandmother whipped this up yesterday and had me deliver it to the kitchens for them to serve."

Feeling touched that even at Hogwarts her grandmother had made her a cake, Rose felt herself tear up as Remus dimmed the candlelight. Whipping out his wand, Remus conducted the other three into singing happy birthday for Rose, who began to blush as her loved ones sang for her. Sirius tried to continue the song with claiming Rose smelt like a monkey but was quick to end his attempt after Remus whacked him over the head with his wand.

Rose though, was completely oblivious to the attempt, instead grinning like mad as she blew out her candles and made a wish. "So Rose Petal, what did you wish for?" Sirius grinned.

"I can't tell you that! It won't come true then!" Rose seemed aghast at the notion of giving up her wish.

At that moment, Sirius seized his chest with his hand and pretended to stiffen up as he slowly fell from his chair. "I think…Rose wished…for me to have…a HEART ATTACK!" Sirius dramatically ended his tirade as he flumped to the floor with a bang.

Everyone was cracking up at this point, even Remus, who simply stepped over his friend and began to slice up the cake. "Oh well, guess Rose will have to have Sirius' portion."

"Hey! Wait, no! That's illegal!" As if revived from the dead, Sirius quickly reanimated himself and bumped Remus out the way before he could hand the overly large slice to Rose.

There was a brief stare off between Rose and Sirius as the pair mentally battled each other for the slice of cake. "You're really going to steal my cake on MY birthday?" Rose huffed.

Sirius huffed right back. "This cake is to die for…are you ready to duel, Potter?"

The standoff continued for several more moments before it was ended by Harry simply plucking the plate out of Sirius hand and having it for himself. "Too slow."

Both Sirius and Rose turned to Harry with a look of pure shock as he tucked into the piece of cake. Ginny was hysterical at this point, giving off a full body laugh as Remus just shook his head and continued to serve up cake.

"Oh…you are so done for now Prongslet." Sirius grinned, "I'll get you back, when you least expect it."

"Good luck with that." Harry said through a mouthful, "I've got reflexes like a hawk."

Apparently, Harry was exaggerating his reflexes however, as at the moment, Rose decided to throw a piece of cake right at his forehead, landing it straight between the eyes. Letting out a yelp, Harry jumped in surprise before glaring at his now grinning sister. "Reflexes like a hawk huh?"

Grumbling, Harry cleaned himself off as Remus finished serving everyone cake. "Now, I think that's enough fighting over cake. There's plenty here for at least 3 servings each, so relax people."

"It's not a matter of portion size Moony, it's a fight for dignity now!" Sirius stated melodramatically.

"Honestly Sirius, are you 13 or 33?" Remus admonished.

Once again clutching his heart, Sirius shook his head. "Say it ain't so Moony, I can't be 33!"

"You're getting old Uncle Siri." Rose teased, adding salt to the wound, "Almost time to put you in a retirement home."

"Madeline-Rose Lily Potter!" Sirius gasped, "You are so grounded!"

"Grounded? How can you ground me at school?" Rose continued to tease.

"I'll ground you once you're home then, for ruining my pride. 1 day, grounded!"

Rolling her eyes, Rose continued to eat her cake as Sirius huffed. "Retirement home…cheek of the working class."

The war of cake and ages came to an uneasy stalemate as both Potters and Black eyed each other nervously. When it was clear that there was peace, albeit fragile, the three relaxed and began to enjoy their desserts. Looking next to him at Ginny, Harry was relieved to find a great big smile plastered on her face, one that he hadn't seen since at least her birthday.

"Sorry it's so chaotic." Harry laughed.

If possible, Ginny's smile widened even more as she returned Harry's attention. "Oh, don't worry, this is nothing compared to breakfast at home. It's nice to have a little chaos every now and then."

Harry smiled back as he snuck his hand underneath the table to softly squeeze Ginny's. It was only a temporary moment however, as Sirius was quick to jump up and grab Rose's presents from the table.

"I'm surprised you haven't tried to rip them open yet, Rose petal!" Sirius joked, "Come on, open them up."

Rose was absolutely giddy as Sirius placed the parcels in front of her. Without wasting a second more, Rose snatched the present closest to herself, which so happened to be from Sirius. Opening up the box, Rose was surprised to see a set of protective riding equipment, very similar to what Sirius had given Harry.

"Motorcycle gear? Does that mean…" Rose looked up at her uncle, "Do I get to ride as well!"

Sirius grinned as he nodded his head. "Absolutely Rose Petal. Couldn't let your brother have all the fun!"

Bouncing up from her chair, Rose ran over and wrapped her arms around Sirius' middle. "Thankyouthankyouthank!"

"Careful around the sides! I'm getting old you know!" Sirius chuckled.

There was a scoff from Rose as she pulled back from the hug. "You know I was joking right?"

"Oh, I know. But you're still grounded."

Pouting, Rose dragged her feet over to the table, where she pulled the next present towards her. Seeing it was from Remus, Rose's giddiness soon came back. Tearing it open, she was surprised at what was inside. It was a glass bowl, filled with dark soil with various multicoloured flowers and plants sprouting from the dirt.

Eyes shining from amazement, Rose looked over at her other uncle in wonder. "It's beautiful, what is it?"

"It's a terrarium, a mini ecosystem of different plants and flowers all contained in that one tiny glass bowl." Remus explained, "All you need to do is give it a little water every week and it should keep itself alive through its own nutrients."

"They're so bright though, unlike anything I've seen before. It has to be magical, surely." Rose asked.

Remus grinned and nodded. "Of course, it'll stay flowering all year round, however it should change colour according to the seasons."

Unlike with Sirius, Rose was gentler in her thanking of Remus, wrapping her arms around him like he was a fragile doll. "Thank you Uncle Moony."

"You're very welcome cub. I thought that at least this way, you could satisfy your green thumb while at school."

Smiling, Rose untangled herself from Remus, moving back to the final present that was on the table. It was from her grandparents. Opening it up, Rose was smiled as she saw her grandparents had gotten her a couple of muggle perfumes. The note that was sent along with it explained that one was a sweet and light scent, perfect for summer, whilst the other was heavier and slightly more musky, perfect for winter.

With presents sorted and out the way, Harry reminded his sister that there were probably more presents waiting for her back at the common room. Thanking their uncles for a lovely dinner, Harry and Rose, with Ginny tagging along, headed back towards the Gryffindor Common Room.

Somehow, Harry had been conscripted to carry Rose's presents, allowing the birthday girl to skip along with Ginny, arm in arm. It warmed Harry's heart to see two of his favourite girls in the world acting so carefree, especially Ginny. The youngest Weasley was finally regaining some of that adventurous attitude that intrigued Harry the moment he laid eyes on her. It didn't take long to get back to Gryffindor tower, being as the defence classroom was on the same level as their dormitory. Before Rose burst through the portrait entrance, Harry called out, hoping to stop his sister from barging into her surprise party before he could be there to soak it all in.

"Honestly you two, it would've been nice to have a little bit of a hand." Harry complained as he huffed up to the door, his arms full of Rose's presents.

"Come on Harry, you're supposed to be in shape with all that 'sport' you do." Rose teased, although she had mercy on her brother, taking a couple of the lighter presents to carry.

Rose had to hold onto her presents tightly though, as when she came through the portrait door, there was a cacophony of noise that made her jump right out of her skin.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROSE!"

There were various cheers and shouts of greetings from both the 2nd and 3rd year Gryffindor cohorts, along with a few other older and younger Gryffindors who'd merely stayed around to party.

Covering her mouth in surprise, Rose felt tears of joy sting her eyes as her knees began to wobble. Harry was quick to grab the rest of the presents before she dropped them, giving her a light push forward so she could be received by her friends.

"Go on, don't keep them waiting." He whispered.

Without wasting another moment, Rose sprinted full bore into the crown of well-wishers, a broad grin on her face. The first person she came into contact with was of course Luna, her other best friend. The blonde gave a signature Lovegood smile as Rose allowed herself to cry.

"Has something we've done upset you Rose?" Luna asked.

Pulling away from the embrace, Rose shook her head and laughed. "No, of course not! I'm just surprised, that's all."

"It was your brothers' idea." Hermione spoke up, "He said that you hadn't had a surprise party before."

"Of course, he had a little help too." Ron supplanted, "Alec and I helped supply the food, whilst Hermione and Ginny sourced us some butterbeer!"

Rose turned around to look at her best friend, who had taken on a bright red exterior to hide her embarrassment. Sending Ginny, a smile, Rose stuck her arm out indicating that she wanted Ginny to join her in a hug. With a shove from Harry, Ginny found herself caught up in the arms of both Luna and Rose, the latter squeezing the life out of them both.

With her best friends out the way, Rose went on to give everyone else a hug, including Ron and Alec who both spluttered and were equally red in the face from blushing afterwards. Hermione was kind enough to show her a table full of sweets, cake and nibbles that was tucked away in a corner, but that wasn't what caught Rose's attention. Instead, it was the small wooden box that sat next to the table, full to the brim with ice cold bottles of butterbeer, just waiting to be opened and drunk liberally.

Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, especially once the Twins managed to amplify an old wireless and get it onto one of the more 'hip' radio channels that broadcast the wicked sisters. All thoughts of homework and private study was removed from the thoughts of the remaining Gryffindors, as years began to mingle and dance on a makeshift dancefloor that was created by the Twins with the help of Lee Jordan. Even Percy managed to get himself wrangled into a dance, after Rose dragged him into the middle and began to dance with him. It was quite a comical sight, considering that Rose was just barely half of Percy's height. Eventually though, Professor McGonagall made a visit to insist that her students begin to end the party. This was all it took for those not closest to Rose to begin to head back to their dorms to sleep off the sugar highs that they'd induced on themselves.

Once it was proficiently quiet, Harry brought Rose over to the fireplace and chairs that had been set up around it, where her friends waited for her around a grand pile of presents. Eyes widening, Rose felt herself tearing up again as she realised then and there that she truly did have friends that loved and cared for her.

"Thank you so much…you really didn't have to go through all this effort." Rose said.

"You think we did it for you? We just wanted cake and butterbeer!" Alec joked, earning himself a hard whack on the head from Ginny's rolled up witch weekly.

Said boy threw his hands up in defeat as he shrunk into the back of his seat. "Of COURSE, we wanted to do this for you Rose." Hermione interrupted before more violence could be shed, "I think you need to understand that you have quite the impact on people here at Hogwarts. You're kind, funny, smart and oh so fierce. People like you, and we all adore you."

It was rare to hear Hermione say such a passionate statement in public, but it made Harry appreciate his other best friend all the more. Anyone who showed his sister such care and adoration deserved his own adoration straight back. "Come on now, let's not get too sappy before the nights over. Go open your presents, Rosie." Harry gave his sister a smile as he sat down beside the table, patting the floor space next to him.

Not needing a second invite, Rose dived straight in with opening presents. The first was from Hagrid, who'd made her a lovely purse that was made of pink dyed Mokeskin. It would protect whatever belongings she placed in there from any would be thief, as it would shrink out of their grasp.

Next was a collective pile of chocolate from various wizarding stores, namely Honeydukes., alongside some choice joke items from the Twins and Ron. Most notably was a stack of 5 'get out of detention free' cards that Fred and George had hand crafted. Rose laughed, but doubted that they would ever work, although she was happy to try, perhaps not with Professors Snape or McGonagall though.

After that, Rose moved onto the other Weasley gifts, with Percy gifting her a book on leadership and how to become an effective figurehead. Percy explained that he thought he saw quite the potential for her to become a prefect, or even head girl one day. Rose blushed, but thanked the calmest of the Weasley's either way. Molly and Arthur had also sent along a handmade summer dress that Molly had made herself. She wrote a note alongside it stating that she believed that white and green would match best with her auburn hair. Rose admired the dress, spinning around as she held it to her body to see how the trim would flutter in the air. She was determined to wear is as soon as the weather permitted.

Moving away from the Weasleys, Rose picked up presents from both Hermione and Alec, the former gifting her a new set of fancy stationary that glittered and sparkled. It was certainly a very 'girly' gift, but Rose enjoyed those sorts of things. Hermione also gifted a bag of sugar free lollies to contend with the cavity inducing amount the Weasley's had gifted her. Alec's present was surprisingly thoughtful, having given Rose a packet of magical rose seeds whose petals would bloom into a multicoloured spectrum. That earned him a cheeky peck on the cheek, although if one was to believe the mischievous glint in Rose's eye, her actions were certainly a form of payback for his earlier teasing.

The last three presents were arguably the most important to Rose. One from Luna, one from Ginny and the last being from Harry. Luna had given her a necklace that was adorned with opals, magically preserved marigolds and white rose petals. Whilst beautiful, it also had a secret meaning behind the choice in jewellery. The necklaces motif was based on Rose's birth month of September, fitting quite nicely with her complexion. Ginny meanwhile had gotten Rose a yearlong subscription to Witch Weekly, earning a groan from Harry who knew that he'd never hear the end of the constant drama the magazine would dig up about him and his life. Rose though, thought it was fantastic, as the magazine also held various fashion ideas, girly tips and genuinely interesting topics for young women, if one ignored the gossip columns.

Finally, Rose got to the very last present, a weighty package from her brother that made her give him a quizzical look. Harry just shrugged and coxed her into opening the present. Once the wrapping was off, Rose was greeted by three blank books that were of equal size and content…that being nothing.

"Well, I do love drawing books…" Rose remarked dryly.

"Give it here for a second would you." Harry asked. Rose happily handed the books over as Harry accepted a quill and ink bottle that Hermione had stashed away in her bag.

Opening both books side by side, Harry began to write on the page of one, where slowly the same words he wrote would appear on the other books pages. Finally, Rose understood the utility behind the books, smiling broadly as she wrapped her brother up in a hug. "That's brilliant!"

"It's a communication book." Harry managed to get out whilst being squeezed to death, "You can give someone else the other book and have conversations with them. It'll chime whenever there's a new message written in there, and every month it'll clear the pages and you can begin again."

Rose knew straight away who'd she'd give the other two books too, handing one straight to Ginny and the other to Luna. The two girls both had two very different reactions, as Ginny stuttered and tried to refuse, whilst Luna simply accepted the book with a beaming smile and hug.

"Ginny, please take it. You're my best friend and sometimes we don't see each other every day, and I'd still like to be able to talk to you!" Rose said.

Ginny finally relented, accepting the book and pressing it too her chest as she smiled faintly. Harry could see that Ginny was still unsure of her relationship with Rose, still sensing that she felt responsible for Rose's attack last year. It would take time, but Harry believed that eventually the two would come out of this period with an unbreakable friendship.

With presents now tucked away upstairs in Rose's trunk, everyone took the opportunity to head off to bed to sleep off the massive amount of food that they'd consumed. The last two to head to bed where the two Potter siblings, who sat by the fire for a little while longer to sit and chat.

"So, best birthday ever?"

Rose looked at her brother and smiled deeply. "Absolutely. It would've been the best one yet with just that dinner with Ginny, Remus and Sirius…but to have a surprise like that waiting for me when I got back…"

"Gotta spoil you sometimes you know." Harry chuckled.

"Just sometimes?" Rose grinned back.

Rolling his eyes, Harry pushed his sister's shoulder with his own. "Don't push it you. Christmas is going to be scant; I've already blown my budget on you this year."

"Oh Harry, you could get me a pair of socks and I'd still be happy. I think you spoil me too much as it is."

Looking down at his sister, Harry frowned as he noticed the forlorn look on his sister's face. "You know I do it because I want to right? I don't do it out of some obligation…I want you to be happy, I want to spoil you as every older brother should for their younger sister."

"I know." Rose sighed, "It just feels like I don't deserve it."

"Why don't you deserve it?" Harry asked, curious as to why she thought so.

"Because for years, it was you who took the brunt of the violence against us. You were the one who gave up our measly meals just so I could have more. You made sure that Dudley didn't hurt me, only leading to you being beaten yourself. I feel like I've done nothing but take and take and take but given nothing back to you."

Harry shifted on the lounge so he faced his sister head on, reaching out to grab her hand. "Don't ever think that Rose, I did all those things to protect you because I love you…and it was the right thing to do. Mum and Dad might be gone but I'm not, and I'll be damned if that means that I don't look after you."

"But that's the point, you do look after me and I don't do anything for you." Rose argued.

"That's not true. You look after me when I'm sick, you support me at Quidditch games, you help me with my problems by being an ear that can listen. You give me strength to keep going on…to keep fighting." Harry let out a sigh as he squeezed his sister's hand hard, "Don't you ever think otherwise, okay?"

Rose nodded but said nothing, as she returned her brothers hand squeeze. "One day, it'll be Ginny that will give you the strength to keep going."

"She already does in a way, but you'll always be my sister Rose, and you'll always be my family. I love you Rosie." Harry pulled his sister in close to his chest so that she could rest her head underneath his.

"I love you too Harry, I'm just a little emotional at the moment and not thinking very straight."

"You've had a long day full of emotional moments and way too much sugar, so no doubt you're coming off that high right now. What you need is a healthy night's sleep so you can be back to your normal bubbly self that everyone loves."

Rose didn't argue with her brother there, happy to give him a quick kiss on the cheek goodnight before heading up to her own dorm where her bed awaited her. This left Harry alone in his thoughts for the first time since that morning. It gave him solace to know that his loved ones were protected and were happy, for the most part. Now, if only he could figure out a way to keep them safe from what he knew would be the inevitable showdown between himself and Tom Riddle.

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The Gryffindors thankfully had the weekend to recover from Rose's birthday party, an immeasurable pleasure that everyone took advantage of considering they had sugar hangovers from the vast quantities of lollies and butterbeer consumed that night. Come Monday morning though, school was back into the full swing of things. The third years had an elective in the morning, followed by charms and Transfiguration afterwards. For Harry, it would be his first lesson of Care of Magical Creatures, and his first lesson with Hagrid as his teacher. The group had visited Hagrid that weekend to see how he was fairing for his first lesson. In truth, Hagrid was worried, not willing to ruin the opportunity that Dumbledore had given him by uplifting him into the position of a teacher. Hermione though, saw this as a grand opportunity to show the whole of Hogwarts that Hagrid was not just a simple groundskeeper, but that he also had an extensive knowledge of magical creatures. What Hermione forgot however, was that Hagrid also had a rather strange perception on what he considered a 'dangerous' creature and what everyone else would consider one.

After a rather brilliant start to his first lesson with the third years, Hagrid found himself wallowing in despair as Malfoy was dragged off to the infirmary with a gashed arm.

"I knew I'd ruin it I would. Professor Dumbledore gave me thi' chance and I stuffed it all to buggery!"

Hagrid had started off the course by introducing his students to Buckbeak, a 'tame' Hippogriff, and his herd. It was supposed to be simple, showing students that one must bow and show respect to the proud species before approaching them. Harry had ended up being 'volunteered', but had performed admirably and earned the respect of Buckbeak to the point where Hagrid hoisted Harry up onto the Hippogriffs back before promptly taking him for a flight around the paddock where Hagrid had brought the class too.

After that, most of the other students seemed to understand how to interact with the creatures, allowing them to introduce themselves to the other Hippogriffs in Buckbeaks herd. Malfoy though, in his typical chauvinistic attitude, found himself on the wrong end of Buckbeaks claws after pushing Harry out the way and insulting the proud creature.

And so, that's how Hagrid found himself moping against a large oak tree, surrounded by Harry, Ron, Hermione and Alec. "It's not your fault Hagrid, that bloody git Malfoy always ruins it for others." Ron spat.

"I do have to admit that his actions were rather foolish." Hermione agreed, "You can't blame yourself Hagrid. Besides, accidents happen all the time."

Hagrid shook his head. "No doubt tha' boy will tell his daddy, then the board of governa's will get involved."

"And then the ministry will get involved." Harry said cynically, "They'll want to punish Buckbeak."

"But that's not fair! Buckbeak is just an animal, he doesn't know better!" Ron spluttered.

Everyone looked at Ron and shrugged. "The ministry is corrupt, no doubt there'll be some money being passed around to make sure Malfoy's honour stays intact." Alec said.

"Bloody mongrels…" Hagrid said, "If I 'ad my way…I'd wring their necks."

"And then you'd be heading to prison…again." Harry tutted.

Looking sheepish, Hagrid nodded solemnly. "I jus' don't wan' old Buckbeak to get 'urt tha's all!"

"And he won't Hagrid, we'll make sure of that! I'll read up on all the cases involving Hippogriffs and find a way to make sure Buckbeak is proven innocent!" Hermione stated passionately.

Feeling much better, Hagrid decided that he'd play it safe for the rest of the semester and get them to work on Flubberworms instead, although he did state that maybe once the class was ready, he'd move them onto something a little more interesting.

Sufficiently sure that Hagrid would be alright for the rest of the day, the four students headed off to their next class. After a simple Charms lesson involving some revision of the cheering charm, Harry and his friends had Transfiguration with McGonagall. For once in their life, Harry and his mob found themselves early to class, being the first ones to arrive. They found the classroom empty, even McGonagall was nowhere to be seen, only a tabby cat that sat on her desk.

"Afternoon Professor." Harry waved off to the cat.

Alec and Ron gave him a look like he was barmy, but was startled when the statue like tabby cat leapt off the desk, only to turn into their surly looking Professor. "Good afternoon to you too Mister Potter. Weasley, Henderson, perhaps you should pick your mouths off the ground?"

Blushing deeply, Ron and Alec were quick to apologise and find their seats. Harry just chuckled as he shared a look with Hermione and rolled his eyes. "Honestly you lot, it's almost like you forgot she was an Animagus."

"Look, I don't go around keeping an eye on who can turn into a bloody cat or not." Ron huffed.

"Besides, it's not like she does it often." Alec concurred.

Hermione tsked as she took out her Transfiguration book. "It's quite easy to recognise her boys, the Professor has markings around her eyes where her glasses normally would sit."

"Well spotted Miss Granger." Professor McGonagall called from the front, "5 points to Gryffindor."

Bristling with pride, Hermione found herself set up for the rest of the lesson on that simple achievement alone. It wasn't long until other students began to filter into the class, with the stragglers only just barely making it into the classroom before McGonagall shut the doors.

"Welcome to third year Transfiguration. You will all find that this year will be a step up from the previous two years. As your magical cores begin to mature and your magic becomes more stable, we at Hogwarts can begin to teach you more complex spells."

McGonagall's lecture about the year went on for another 10 minutes or so, outlining what she would be teaching them that semester and the next. The less attentive of the class began to nod off, Ron included, only to have a sharp drop wake them up as McGonagall vanished the legs from their desks. That was enough to keep everyone alert and attentive on the Professors lesson. Once the outline for the year had been discussed, McGonagall started with a revision of the basic transfigurations that they had achieved last year. Harry didn't have a problem with this, as he'd been readily practising throughout the holidays. Satisfied that the majority of the class remembered what she had taught them, McGonagall continued on with the beginnings of the Lapifors Spell, turning a target into a Rabbit.

Harry had seen the spell previously when reading ahead in his textbook, so he managed to achieve an acceptable transfiguration of his cat statue into a Hare instead of a Rabbit. "Interesting result there Mr Potter, perhaps a mix up of your Latin phonetics?"

"I think I accidentally said Lepufors instead of Lapifors." Harry supplied.

"That would be it then Mister Potter. Lepus is Latin for Hare, Lapin is the French word for rabbit, where the spell originates. A very good effort nonetheless. 5 points to Gryffindor."

Harry beamed as he controlled his oversized Rabbit. Hermione had been the only other one to achieve the spell during the lesson, although she couldn't quite get the colour to turn from stony grey to a more natural brown, black or white. After playing with his hair for a while longer, Harry transfigured the Hare back into a statue before trying again with the proper phonetics, producing a snowy white Rabbit that began to hop and bounce on Harry's command.

Overall, it was a very successful lesson for most, whilst others only found themselves more frustrated by the end of it. Once the lesson had ended and students began to pack their belongings away, Harry was called aside by Professor McGonagall. Remembering that the Professor wished to speak with him, Harry waved his friends off as he made his way up to the Professors desk.

"I'm assuming that Professor Dumbledore has discussed with you the 'extracurricular' training that he wishes you to have?"

Harry nodded his head as he took a seat in front of McGonagall's desk. "He has. We had a talk the first night back about my training. Remus…I mean, professor Lupin, is also going to be training me, starting with the Patronus Charm."

McGonagall's eyebrows rose a smidge in surprise before settling back into their usual place. "A wise decision, considering the current guests that we house. I'm quite interested to see how you fair with the charm Mister Potter. It's quite advanced, although if anyone would be able to perform it at such a young age, I would most certainly suggest it'd be you."

Blushing, Harry nodded his head. "Thank you, Professor."

"Now, I haven't just kept you to talk about your skills, Potter. I know just as well as Professor Dumbledore and yourself know, that You-Know-Who will no doubt be returning. We…I…the Magical World, needs you prepared." There was a slight quiver in McGonagall's voice, "Can you tell me Potter, what are some of the ways you can block a curse or spell?"

"Um…you can use a shield charm? You can also block it with an object or simply dodge it."

"Correct. There is no way, however, to block an unforgivable curse…except if one intercepts it with another object." McGonagall added, "I have no doubt that in the future, you will be faced with these spells, the most dangerous of these being the Killing Curse."

Harry's hand instinctively went up to his scar. "You may have miraculously survived one curse Potter, but that doesn't mean you'll be as lucky next time. That is why you need to learn how to use Transfiguration in battle. It is the best option you have, besides dodging, to keep yourself alive against an Unforgivable."

"I understand Professor." Harry nodded.

"I'm glad you do, Potter. Your father was exceptionally bright at using Transfiguration for battle, using even simple Transfigurations to help turn the tide of a battle. I only ever got to see him duel a handful of times, however I believe that after seeing him, and now you, you will have what it takes to use Transfiguration in battle."

Harry allowed himself to smile in the presence of his strict Transfiguration Professor. "What else can you use it for?"

"Good question Potter." For the next hour or so, McGonagall went through the finer points of how one may use Transfiguration in a battle situation.

McGonagall explained how one may use Transfigured objects to aid them, distracting their opponents or outright attacking them. This was especially useful if one Transfigured an object into a dangerous beast, such as a Lion or Tiger. Other ways that a one may use Transfiguration to their advantage, is by changing the terrain around them, using it to impend their opponent by forcing them to fight through nonideal conditions, or to trap them in something like a quicksand pit.

Once the hour was up, McGonagall dismissed Harry with the promise of organising a schedule with his other Professors no later by the end of the week. Happy to hear this, Harry bid McGonagall farewell before heading down to the Great Hall, where dinner had already been served.

He found his friends and family sitting huddled together by their section of the table. Rose was the first to spot him, offering him a smile as she nodded down to the spot between herself and Ginny that she'd saved for him. Returning the smile, Harry made a beeline for his sister, looking around the Hall as he did so. Harry had to scowl as he saw the attention that Malfoy was receiving from his cronies, especially Pansy Parkinson. They were fawning over him as Malfoy exaggerated the incident with Buckbeak, going so far as to state that he was almost killed. Harry in that instant wished that the smarmy git had more than a few cuts to his arm.

"So, how many nights of detention do you have?" Ron joked as Harry sat down at the table.

"Only a semester worth, but the real kicker is no Quidditch." Harry shot back.

Ron stopped eating for a moment before looking up at his mate. "You're joking right. I was only joking, please tell me you're joking!"

Harry laughed at the panic in his friend's voice as he waved the notion away. "Of course, I'm joking. No, Professor McGonagall was just organising the same 'extracurricular activity' as Professor Dumbledore and Uncle Remus."

"That's very exciting Harry, imagine what you'll get to learn. How did you manage to get that spell almost right the first time by the way?" Hermione was leaning forward, almost to the point where her bum was off her seat.

"You know how they always say it's about intent? Well…I really wanted to control a rabbit." Harry smiled, "Thought it would've been cute. And it was."

"I see…well done either way Harry. Seems I have some competition." Hermione frowned.

"Relax Hermione, you're still the smartest Witch of the age." Harry reassured. It seemed to do the trick as Hermione returned the smile and began to eat again.

Turning to his sister, Harry leaned down and gave her a peck on the cheek. "How was your day sis?"

Rose swatted her brother away as she tried to finish her bite of food. "It was fine thank you very much! You can be so annoying."

"Ah ha…I can't wait to hear later on how I 'don't show any emotion." Harry teased.

Rolling her eyes, Rose ignored her brother as she continued to talk to Luna while having dinner. Seeing that he was no longer receiving his sister's attention, Harry turned to Ginny, who was currently looking rather morose as she pushed her food around on her plate.

"Gin? You okay?" There was concern laced throughout Harry's voice.

It took a gentle shake on her shoulder from Harry to break Ginny's catatonic state. "Sorry, did you say something Harry?"

"I asked if you were okay…obviously not." Harry frowned, "What happened?"

Ginny shrugged her shoulders, leaning against Harry as she explained her state. "The gossip mill is in full swing…I um…I got accused by some Hufflepuffs of trying to…trying to murder them."

Gritting his teeth, Harry reached down to cup Ginny's hand in his. "That's fucking ridiculous. How dare they."

"That's tame compared to what some of the Ravenclaws are doing. They're jinxing pieces of paper and sending them towards me as paper planes."

"What kind of jinxes?" Harry asked.

Ginny sighed. "Simple but annoying ones. Stinging, numbing, even a jelly fingers jinx. All of it affects my classwork though, so the Professors start getting argy-bargy at me."

"That's not fair at all. Have you told them what's happening?"

Ginny shook her head. "What's the point? It won't stop people from gossiping. It's better to just let it all pass over…eventually."

Harry was about to reply when a loud bang followed by some choice swearing interrupted him. Seamus had gone ahead and tried his water into rum spell again, once more singeing his eyebrows. The loud noise caused Ginny to jump out of her seat and make a run for the door, Harry's grip on her hand failing to stop her. Preparing to give chase, Harry was stopped in his tracks as owls began to descend from the ceiling, carrying newspapers in each of their claws.

"Must be a special nightly edition, I wonder what's happened." Alec mused.

His questions were answered when Hedwig and a brown Hogwarts barn owl landed in front of Harry and Hermione respectively. In that moment, Harry cursed himself to buying a subscription to the blasted daily Prophet, but decided to humour it and see what all the fuss was about. As wrappings were torn off and papers unfolded, there was a collective gasp from throughout the hall as the front page stared directly up at them.

"Pettigrew Sighted in Dufftown!"

Harry sighed as he began to read the article, Rose co-reading it over his shoulder. Hermione meanwhile decided to read it out aloud for those without a copy.

"A muggle woman sighted the known fugitive when she went out to put the rubbish in the bin. Pettigrew was spotted rummaging through her bins before her scream alerted him, allowing him time to change into his illegal Animagus form of a common house rat." Hermione surmised, "The woman then rung the specially designed Muggle Crime Watchers hotline, who informed the ministry of the event. Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge, responded by sending hundreds of trained Aurors and Hitwizards assigned to the Witch Watcher taskforce. Dementors were also dispatched, however Pettigrew was not found, with Aurors stating that he likely fled before they had arrived. The presence of the Dementors however, caused considerable panic amongst the Muggle population, and more than one Muggle had to be hospitalised from attack by the Azkaban Guards. Ministry workers took four hours to calm the town down before altering their memories in order to erase any evidence of the Dementor attack."

Everyone shook their head, reading that once again innocent people were being affected by Dementors. "What happened to the Muggles that were attacked?" Alec asked.

"They were taken to Saint Mungos, however it is unlikely that they will ever recover and a back story is being created in order to cover for the attack. The minister is being questioned as to why he deemed it necessary to dispatch the creatures." Harry informed them.

"Useless git." Ron grumbled, "But Dufftown isn't that far from here, is it Hermione?"

Hermione shook her head. "Not far at all. That's why everyone's panicky. I think they believe he's heading here."

"That would be the logical conclusion." Harry frowned.

Rose reached down to squeeze her brothers hand, reassuring him as best she could. "It'll be alright. There's no way Dumbledore would let anything happen to you. We're safe here."

Surprised that Rose was defending the headmaster, Harry cocked an eyebrow and shook his head. "He'll find a way. I just have a feeling that it won't be until much later..."

"At least they care about your education enough to leave things till the end of the year!" Alec joked, earning him a sharp nudge in the ribs from Hermione.

The joke was well meant though and gave Harry a reason to smile at least. Once order had been restored in the hall, due in no small part to the slabs of chocolate laid out for dessert, students were sent back upstairs briskly with a warning to stay alert for anything out of the ordinary. Of course, when one lived in a magical castle, it was hard to tell what was normal and what was strange. Once Harry and his friends reached the Common Room, they were greeted by pandemonium as students panicked amongst each other over the possibility of a mass murderer breaking into the castle. The way they were acting, was almost as if Pettigrew had already attacked the school.

One group of fifth years almost collided into Ron, who was quick to let out a few choice words. "Put your head on straight you bloody dickhead!"

"Ron! Relax would you, people are scared. The last thing they need is more reason to be upset." Hermione admonished.

"Doesn't mean they should go around trying to give people concussions, 'Mione." Ron grumbled, "Besides, the bloody rat isn't even here yet, and it's not like he'll get into the castle."

"We don't know that yet, Ron." Harry spoke up, "For all we know, he might know of a secret entrance into the castle."

Ron jerked his head back in surprise. "Never thought of that...Bloody hell, suppose he tries to come back and murder the lot of us in our sleep!"

"See what I mean Ron." Hermione huffed, "You have to be cautious now."

The lot of them moved over towards the fireplace, huddled together to discuss their findings much like everyone else in the room. At one point, Rose and Luna went off up to the girls dorm to find Ginny. When they returned however, they seemed quite distraught over the fact that she wasn't anywhere to be found.

"I'm worried about her, what if she's holed up in a bathroom somewhere, crying her eyes out." Rose worried.

"She's a big girl, I'm sure she'll be alright." Ron commented.

Rose rounded on Ron in a split second, glaring at him as she got right up in his face. "She just went through a year of being possessed by the darkest wizard in British history and YOU, her BROTHER, has the gall to say that she's a BIG GIRL!" Rose shook her head, her fist clenched at her side, "I would've thought that of all people, you'd understand that she's in a delicate state!"

Ron had shrunk back several inches, scared for his life as the fury of Rose Potter came full bore at him. Thankfully, Harry pulled his sister away before she could do any physical damage to him that she was clearly thinking of doing. "I'll go look for her okay? Luna, could you take Rose back up to the dorm?"

"What? I'm coming with you!" Rose argued.

"Not this time, you're upset and you need to calm down." Harry wrapped his arms around his sister and laid a kiss on her brow in reassurance, "I'll find her, I promise."

Rose went to argue further, but was stopped as Luna grabbed Rose's hand and led her away. "Come on Rose, let's go pick the Nargles out of your hair."

The suggestion went unnoticed by Rose, who instead stared at her brother for a moment longer before nodding her head. Watching as Luna led his sister away, Harry turned back to his friends. "I'll find her. Best you stay here." Looking specifically at Ron, it was clear that Harry was also annoyed at his best friends comments.

No one dared to comment though, instead just nodding in acceptance as Harry went storming out of the common room. He had no idea where Ginny could have gone, but decided that it was best to start looking in the places where she would most likely not be found. He started with the girls bathroom, only sticking his head in and calling out her name, but being met with screams and shouts to get out.

Next, Harry tried some of the abandoned classrooms, or at least the ones that weren't locked. Once again, he was met with failure. Searching through several different locations, Harry was beginning to go mad, frantic even, as his search continued to prove a failure. With nowhere else to turn, Harry went to the last place he thought he'd ever go back to, Moaning Myrtle's bathroom. As soon as he stepped in, he was greeted by the wailing of Myrtle, who was sobbing in one of the stalls.

"Um, Myrtle? It's me, Harry Potter."

The sobbing suddenly stopped, as Myrtle's ethereal body floated through the solid wooden frame of the toilet cubicle. "Oh Harry! You've come to visit me! Or have you come to join me?"

Put off by the way Myrtle fluttered her eyelashes at him with the last comment, Harry slowly shook his head. "Sorry Myrtle, I don't plan on dying for a while longer. I'm looking for my friend, Ginny Weasley, has she been here?"

"Oh, the redhead who almost died last time? No, I haven't seen her today." Myrtle frowned, "She use to come so often, it was nice to have some company, even if she didn't talk."

Being reminded that Ginny was possessed to come down into the bathroom to unleash the Basilisk sent a shiver down Harry's spine. "You do know she was possessed right? Did you never think to tell anyone about it?"

"Why would I do that? I was hoping that she would come and join me. It gets ever so lonely..." Myrtle was about to start wailing again, when she perked up at a thought, "Do you think maybe you could convince her to come back?"

Harry was about to give an angry retort, when he doubled over in pain. It was the same sort of pain he felt just before Ron and himself had learnt that Ginny had been taken down into the Chamber. Joining the dots together, Harry realised that Ginny's life must have been in some sort of danger. "Oooh Harry, are you going to die now too?"

"Stop it Myrtle! I'm not dying!" Harry seethed. His reply made Myrtle burst out into tears as she flung herself down one of the pipes again.

Staggering in pain, Harry made his way out of the bathroom, gripping his side as he steadied himself against the wall. As he recovered, Harry began to see flashes of images before his eyes; An inky black, starless sky. Old telescopes, thrown to the side in abandonment. Large windows with constellations adorned inside them. And then Harry felt it, a cold shiver and a sense of impending doom...like he was looking over an edge with a great fall.

TRIGGER WARNING AHEAD

Wasting no time, Harry immediately began sprinting for the astronomy tower. He had no idea why he thought Ginny was there, but he wasn't about to waste anytime second guessing himself. Knocking over several sets of armour and waking up a multitude of portraits, Harry found himself running faster than he ever had before. It was almost as if his body was reacting to the events as well, pumping him full of adrenaline. Once he reached the staircase to the tower, Harry took the steps three at a time, flinging himself up the narrow passage in a desperate attempt to avoid whatever was coming next.

Finally, Harry reached the door that lead to the top of the astronomy tower. Bashing it wide open with his entire bodyweight, Harry had to stop and catch his breath as he caught site of what lay in front of him. Ginny was standing by the very edge of the astronomy tower, her feet mere inches away from the ledge. The noise of Harry breaking into the tower had obviously alerted Ginny to his presence, as she gasped and turned around immediately.

"H-Harry? You shouldn't be here!"

"What're you doing Gin! Get away from the ledge!" Harry pleaded, as he began to quickly stride forward.

Ginny raised her wand at him, as tears began to stain her cheeks. "Please...please stay back Harry. I don't want to hurt you."

Rooted on the spot, Harry could only watch as Ginny began to cry. "Gin, please...just take my hand, I promise you, I'll make things better."

"You can't promise me that Harry! Nothing can make it better...except this." Looking down at the ground below, Ginny let out a sigh, "It will never be the same. People hate me...all they see when they look at me is the little girl that let herself be possessed by Tom Riddle."

Harry shook his head. "Gin, it wasn't your fault, it never was! If you come with me, right now, we can go see Dumbledore and put a stop to this...just please...don't."

Ginny gave Harry a sad smile. "If I knew it would work, I would...I really would Harry. But you deserve someone who isn't broken, someone who isn't a weak little girl."

"You're none of those things Gin, you're my brave warrior...you resisted for so long, so, so long. And I know that you can fight this now too. Don't give up." Harry was desperate now, his own tears beginning to run down his cheeks.

Lowering her wand, Ginny shut her eyes and shook her head. "I'm tired Harry, I can't do this anymore. I just want to sleep."

Moving quickly towards her, Harry was determined that nothing would happen to her. "Gin, please don't do this. Think of the people that love you...think about your parents, your brothers, Rose and Luna...we need you...we love you all." Harry swallowed painfully, "I love you..."

Those three words seemed to break Ginny in that moment, as her tears turned into sobs. Covering her mouth, Ginny shook her head violently. "I know...I know Harry. But you shouldn't. I'm sorry Harry..."

In that moment, Ginny took a step towards the ledge. Harry was quick to react, sprinting towards her as he watched her entire body begin to fall. "GINNY!"

The last thing Harry saw, were Ginny's tear clouded eyes as she begged for forgiveness.