Harry groaned as he hid in a secret passage way on the fourth floor of Hogwarts Castle. Ever since the ball was announced six days ago, he has been asked no less than 20 times if he would take so and so to the event. His reaction of course was no, run, and hope it didn't happen. At least until the first year came up and did it. He just didn't answer that.
"You know Harry, hiding isn't the best option here." A voice from behind him made Harry fall through the tapestry that hid the entrance. When he got his baring back, he saw two identical red heads laughing at him.
'gits' Harry thought as he got up. "What do you two want?" He grabbed his bag from the twin that offered it, and slung it over a shoulder.
"Well Harry, we felt it would be kind of us to tell you how to solve your issue." One twin began with the other picking the sentence up flawlessly. "Even though it was hilarious to watch you run from that first year…" The twins laughed as Harry blushed.
The trio of Gryffindors turned a corner to see a group of 7th years pushing a third year around.
"Loony Lovegood." The chants of the seventh years as they pushed the smaller girl around made the three's blood boil. In a flash, three wands pointed at the group, and spells fired.
Four people dropped to the ground, one crying when she hit the flagstones. Harry ran up, and knelt by her. "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine Harry Potter." The big blue eyes of the dirty blond girl met Harry's eyes with a vacant expression.
"You're Luna Lovegood right?" One of the twins asked as he picked through the pockets of one of the unconscious seventh years. Harry didn't even turn his head at the image. Fred and George often made sure that anything interesting was taken out of the hands of bullies. They had to pay for their "research" some way, they claimed.
"Yes, and you are George." The soft voice of the young Ravenclaw shook the twins. Rarely were they ever identified correctly when their brother was around.
"Well, let's get you off the floor." Harry helped her up, after tucking his wand away. Her smile was hesitant but sweet in response to his kindness.
"Thank you. Tell me, why are you in this part of the castle anyway?" Luna asked as she straightened her skirt.
Harry noticed that for the first time in their conversation, Luna blinked. This thought distracted him from answering for a moment. "Umm… I don't really have to attend classes so, I just wander the castle instead?"
Luna tilted her head, looking at Harry as if he believed her to be stupid. This stare continued for several seconds, as the twins silently snickered behind the young teen. Finally, Harry sighed and changed his answer.
"I'm hiding from the people who won't leave me alone about this ball thing."
"Why Harry Potter?" Luna asked as she started to walk down the hall. Harry followed her, not even realizing he was. The twins shared a look before following as well, leaving the formerly conscious bullies lying in a heap in the corridor.
Once Harry caught up to Luna, he answered the question." I don't really want to get attached to anyone. I also really don't want to get attached to someone who only wants to go to the ball with a Chosen. I am more than just the Chosen of Hogwarts, and many of the girls who run up to me asking don't even want to know who I support in Quidditch." Luna nodded as he finished his explaination.
"That sounds terrible Harry. On the Brightside, you could always ask a friend to accompany you to the ball. That seems like a valued solution."
"What friend? I ask Hermione, Ron becomes a git. Although, I don't swing that way, asking out Ron annoys Hermione." Harry points out.
"Are there no others that come to mind when you think of friends Harry Potter?" Luna asked as they stopped infront of a wall. She leaned against a pillar that supported a bust of an extremely ugly wizard.
"Not really. I mean there's Ron's sister Ginny, but I don't want to ruin my relationship with the Weasleys over a date that to me didn't mean what Ginny wanted it to." Harry turned to the twins behind him. "Sorry guys, but I don't think I could risk it."
The twins nodded. They both knew that Ginny and Harry would be a rollercoaster, and while funny, the risk of it exploding would be way too much for their liking either.
"You could not ask out Ginny Weasley anyway, as she is attending with Neville Longbottom." Luna stated without much inflection. For her, it was merely a fact. To the twins, it was news however.
"Oh? Neville asked our sister to the ball?" One twin began. The other, as was custom, continued the thought. "Well good on him. Ginny and Neville would be good together. What do you think Fred?"
Fred put a finger to his chin, making a comical face to simulate thinking. "Before I answer that, when did I become Fred?" At his twin's whispered answer, he nodded. "Of course, however could I forget. Now, back to the question my other half asked. I like it!"
"Would you two stop gossiping about your sister and get back to my issue?" Harry snapped as the two continued to talk about how Neville would be a great to the Weasley clan. Immediately the twins silenced themselves. Harry continued to glare at the two for a moment before turning back to Luna. "What do you think I should do Luna?"
"You will be on the top of the Grand Staircase at 6:45pm on the day of the Yule Ball, dressed to the best of your ability, and enjoy your date with me. Good night Harry Potter." With that, Luna turned to the bust and politely asked it to move. The bust and pillar shifted to the left, exposing a passage that cut through the wall, presumably in the direction of the Ravenclaw Dorms.
The twins clapped Harry on a should each, and the one on the left said," You know Harry, I think you just solved your issue."
Harry smiled and shook his head. "Thanks for the obvious. Come on, we need to leave the floor before a professor finds those bullies."
Minerva McGonagall surged forward, transforming into a cat midstep, as a blast of blue light struck where her chest was a moment ago. Shifting back to human in an instant, a flick of the wand brought three desks alive, stampeding toward her opponent. Three twists of a wand brought javelins into existence, banished towards her adversary. Her two-pronged attack was countered by two waves of bright flames, burning the desks, and melting the javelins as it blasted forward. In an instant, a rock was conjured, and transfigured into a wall that protected the Mistress from the searing flames.
Sirius grinned as he circled the wall, firing curses that curved in the air to slam into the exact center of the structure. As soon as he could see beyond the wall, he ducked as a swarm of arrows were banished toward him. A roll forward was countered by an animated rug attempting to bind him. A moment to fire the diffindo that cut through the rug, had three Stunning spells fired in his direction as the Rock wall crumbled, becoming daggers.
Minerva scowled as her spells were countered by a shield charm, and her daggers were transfigured into noodles. Sirius fired more spells at her, blue red and an orange one that passed through her hastily created shield charm. In a flash Sirius transformed, his Grim body crossing the distance in an instant.
Sirius transformed back into himself with his wand to the cheek of the Deputy of Hogwarts. He nearly pronounced his victory when he felt a sharp point to his stomach. Glancing down, he saw Minerva holding a very sharp dagger to this stomach. "Looks like a tie Professor."
"No, I lost. Even if I were to stab you, you could take off my head, and possibly survive." Minerva replied as they separated. With a swish of the wand, the dagger in her hand transformed back into a feather. Sirius waved his wand around the room and repaired the damage the two caused.
"You are recovering nicely however Sirius." The Transfiguration professor told her former student. And it was true. When they began these exercises, Sirius had barely been able to keep up with Minerva. Now, Minerva rarely won. Amazing what time with good food, company and work outs could accomplish.
"I'm still no where near where I need to be. Before Azkaban, I could duel you and Flitwick together. As it is, Flitwick would destroy me. I actually have to try against Cedric for crying out loud!" Sirius threw his hands up as he complained. Ever since gaining his freedom, he found his emotions to be more volatile, and explosive. Just like any explosive, his blast of anger and self-pity was gone in an instant. "But, I have only been recovering for a few months. It takes time. Sorry Minerva."
A smile from the Marauder stopped any dressing down from the Transfiguration Professor in its tracks. "I understand Sirius. You feel lacking. Yet you are also handicapping yourself."
"No. I refuse. I didn't need to before, and I sure as hell don't need to now." Sirius barked, his face a mask of fury.
"Sirius Black, I am not saying that you must, but that you may have to at some point. It is an asset, and if Harry is endangered you must utilize any asset you have!" The volume of Minerva's voice matched the venom in Sirius' as she rebutted his point.
"If?! Harry is endangered! This tournament will not let him go unscathed! Designed to maim, murder and burn the ashes!" Sirius yelled. "I can't save him Minerva! I can't do anything about this."
"You think I need saving Sirius?" A voice from the door interrupted McGonagall's counter. In the doorway, Harry surveyed the two arguing.
"That was not what I said Harry." Sirius sighed.
"No, it wasn't. It was what you meant. You think that I can't get through this tournament without being hurt." Harry calmly stated as he walked into the room.
"Now, Harry, I'm certain that Sirius-" McGonagall began to defuse before Sirius spoke up over her.
"Honestly Harry, yes. I don't see a way you can get through this without being injured. This tournament was designed to kill you. You weren't uninjured for the First Task either, and you only survived that because of a stupid fluke of magic. So no Harry, I don't think you can get through this without being hurt." Sirius strode forward as he spoke until he was in front of his godson.
Harry was about to speak when suddenly Sirius was spun around, and an echoing slap slammed into his cheek.
"Sirius Orion Black, how dare you. I understand that you are upset, and emotional now, but to say such untrue things to your godson is despicable. James and Lily would be ashamed of you. Harry maybe rough around the edges now, but he is 14 years old and is still learning. He is skilled, and a marvelous wizard!" McGonagall scolded Sirius as the man held his reddening cheek. She took a deeper breath to continue her rant when Harry interrupted.
"Professor, thank you but Sirius is allowed his opinion. It just means that when I win, I'll surprise him too." Harry calmly replied. He turned completely to Sirius and said," Sirius, I love you. I do. But if you aren't behind me, supporting me, get the hell out of the room. I have training."
The former Azkaban tenant strode towards the door, his balled fists shaking. Before he crossed the threshold, he stopped. He heard Minerva start teaching his godson about a concept in transfiguration. He sighed, ran a hand through his hair, and opened the door. Two bodies fell through the now open doorway. "What are you two doing?"
Hermione looked up and flinched. Sirius Black's eyes were dark, stormy, but strangely empty. He stared at her on the ground in front of him, atop Ron with a complete detachment. It was a cold detachment, as if she and Ron didn't matter to the former convict. Her surprise was interrupted by Ron mumbling,"Wanna get off me Hermione?"
As the two scrambled up, Sirius repeated his question. Ron was the first to answer for once.
"We saw something that would be of note to Harry. Some bullies were all over Luna we ran into Cedric and he said to tell Harry." Ron spat the story swiftly. Hermione began,"Now Ron,that's not-"
"I'll handle it you two. Now leave. Harry is busy, and I have to deal with some things." Sirius interrupted, flicked his wand, and levitated the two people out of the room, shutting the door behind him. He turned and strode toward his Godson and former professor.
"Harry, Minerva, sorry to interrupt. But we have something that came up. Harry, what is Luna Lovegood to you?" Sirius interrupted the transfiguration lesson. Harry blinked owlishly at the question, while Minerva was displeased.
"Sirius, why the hell does that matter? Harry is training."
"Do you feel it professor? In the air I mean." Sirius countered.
"What are you talking about?" The irritated tone of the professor was not lightened by Sirius' rebuttal.
"You mean the magic right Sirius?" Harry cut in, getting a nod from his Godfather.
"Yeah kid, I mean the magic. From what I've found in my research, the Goblet is a real git." Sirius spoke softly, as if the room itself was listening.
"That maybe true, but that doesn't have anything to do with Ms. Lovegood!" Minerva said before she gestured with her wand. "So kindly allow Harry and I to continue!"
"Wait professor. If we can feel the Goblet's magic, that must mean something. The fact that Sirius asked about Luna, knowing I am just going to the ball with her as a friend, means that he thinks the Goblet may mess with my emotions. Right?" Harry reasoned quickly, his wand idling tapping his forearm as he thought with his arms crossed.
"Yeah kid, you're right. We know the Goblet can mess with emotions, as I told you before. It messed with Dumbledore and myself while we were in a meeting with the Minister. Dumbledore told me recently, that Occlumency helps." Sirius ran a hand through his hair again and sighed.
"So I should learn occlumency. My grimoire mentioned it, once. Teach me it Sirius." Harry nodded at his own plan of action.
"I can't kid. Azkaban has a drawback other than the tortured psyche. I will never be able to preform Occlumency. Brightside, no one wants in my head. My mind healer says,'Your mind echoes with the Dementor's breaths. It's as if I was in Azkaban while in your mind.' So, I have a built in defense."
Harry's brow furrowed. He rapidly went through his options of tutors. Dumbledore and the Ministry were out, as they could not teach him anything per the rules of the Tournament. "How is it taught Sirius?"
"The art of occlumency is taught by constantly invading your mind, pulling out before any harm comes to you. It takes extreme control of one's emotions, and one's own mind, to accomplish. Of those available to you Harry, I can only recommend Severus." Minerva answered the question for Sirius.
"I knew the guy was an Occlumens, I didn't know he was that good." Sirius' eyebrows rose in surprise. Severus started working on that when they were kids, for a reason he never really found out.
"Can he be trusted?" Harry asked Minerva. He was already planning on how to gain Snape's favor enough to get these lessons.
"Yes, I'll call him here. No matter what, Sirius keep your mouth shut. Harry, let me do the talking." Minerva swirled her wand around her head, a patronus darting out of the mist she formed with the movement. With out a word, the animal darted through the floor of the room.
"It will take him around 30 minutes to get here, since at this time he is likely brewing. We will continue our lesson. " As Harry began to conjure chains to transfigure the metal that they are made from, Minerva gestured to Sirius to join her. Once he did, she put up a silencing spell and whispered,"Go check on Mr. Diggory and Ms. Lovegood. Ms. Lovegood, undoubtedly feels the magic in the air, and it likely is affecting her. Mr. Diggory should be aware that his pupil is being taught occlumency."
"I can't stop the magic. Albus and I thought about it for several hours, and came to the conclusion that the Goblet would take it as interference, and in his words, "Slaughter us all in the most visceral way possible." Sirius whispered back,"I also don't want to leave without telling Harry I am just checking on something for him. Don't want him thinking I just left."
Minerva nodded and took down the spell keeping their words secret. Sirius walked forward, whispered in Harry's ear, and walked out the door swiftly. Harry continued to conjure chains, before he started intricate figure 8 movements of his wand to change the material.
"Remember Harry, that you must also maintain the shape, as the new material is different than the old." McGonagall instructed as on chain shortened by over a meter when it shifted from iron to ceramic.
Sirius transformed as soon as the door shut behind him. His dark nose lifted in the air, he took a deep breath. Luckily for him, the castle was extremely drafty. He could smell most of the scents in the castle from the 3rd floor. Likely due to the dozens of hidden passages that existed on this floor leading to every single floor of the castle. Several inhales later, Padfoot had the scent he was looking for. He darted off, into a secret passage that he opened with a slap of the paw on the right brick, and was on his way to the fifth floor before a student ever saw him.
Padfoot darted up the passage, the steps of the passage being eaten by the large dog's leaping bounds. The stairs ended at a blank wall, which didn't stop Padfoot a moment, hopping forward, he slipped through the wall, transforming back to Sirius once on the other side. Infront of him was another illusion of a wall, with a tapestry in front of it.
Sirius smiled as he tapped the illusion infront of him twice on a brick that was directly center of the wall portion. The illusion turned solid, and without looking behind him, he walked backwards until he went up three steps. As he turned, he heard a whoosh of magic signifying that the corridor closed.
He, James and Remus discovered these passages in 4th year. Remus thought they used a switching spell variant to shift the structure on was in to one connected to the passage above. Which likely got locked due to a pass mistake from some students. James thought that it was the Castle trying to ensure that it was in control to who got to the upper floors where the students were. These were the only passages ways the went from the third floor all the way up to each of the towers. Sirius agreed with James privately, especially after last year, when the passage would not work for him. It refused to go beyond the fourth floor, which were teacher's quarters primarily, and refused to go below the first to the dungeons where the Hufflepuff and Slytherin dorms were.
As he pounded up the stairs he came to another dead end. This one he walked through slowly, exiting opposite a bust of an ugly wizard on a pillar. Infront of him were two students, one younger than the other. The older was tending to the younger as she cried softly, her tears mixing with the blood that ran from her obviously broken nose.
"Shhh.. Luna, don't worry. I can fix this, or we can go to Madam Pomfrey. It will be okay." Cedric gently stroked the third year's hair as he puzzled in his head on how he would report this.
"I don't want to get the walldingers in trouble. It isn't their fault." Luna's voice was slightly warped by the broken nose and her tears, but Cedric understood the basics.
"Luna, it was their-"
"Kid, she's right." Cedric jumped as Sirius Black settled in a crouch infront of the two. The former convict pointed his wand at Luna, gave a clockwise turn, and a muttered spell that Cedric didn't catch. Cedric's eyes widened as Luna's nose slapped back into place, her bruises disappeared and her rumpled clothes and hair straightened.
"There, all fixed." Sirius sighed tiredly. It went against his nature to utilize such magic. He was a combatant, not a healer. But being in war gave you skills you never thought you would have had.
"Thank you Sirius Black. You too Cedric Diggory." A beaming smile lit up Luna's face as she thanked her saviors.
"No problem kid. Now, Cedric, before you report it, Dumbledore undoubtedly knows. And Luna was right. The fools likely didn't even realize they are doing it. The goblet-" Sirius explained rapidly.
"The Goblet messes with emotions with its magic as it works to 'spice up' the tasks. Yeah, Flitwick told me last week. I was more aggressive than usual, and he stopped me. It isn't an excuse." Cedric spat.
"You can't force the ignorant to understand Cedric. You can't force people to do what they do not wish too. Magic is strong, but not that strong." Luna's slightly whimsical voice cut through the anger the Hufflepuff felt.
"That doesn't excuse it! Violence isn't the answer!" Cedric exclaimed as he stood and started to pace.
"I would agree whole heartedly Mr. Diggory." The aged voice of the Headmaster of Hogwarts announced his presence to the students. Sirius just shot a grin and asked,"What took ya so long? I figured you'd beat me here."
"I stopped to deal with the perpetrators. Ms. Lovegood, you would be relieved to know that I took points, assigned detention and momentarily lifted the aggression from their minds. They were horrified by their assault, and agreed readily to their punishment, even asking for more." Albus Dumbledore spoke to the victim with a cool calm and collected respect that shocked Cedric nearly as much as how light the punishment was.
"That's it Headmaster? They broke her nose, kicked her down the steps, and then thought about continuing before I intervened. Why exactly are they still here?" Cedric growled, his handsome figures marred by an ugly grimace. That grimace fell from his lips as Albus Dumbledore looked in his eyes. In those ancient blue eyes, Cedric saw exactly how he measured to the Headmaster. A burning candle with endless potential, able to start fires, lighten a room, provide warm for hundreds.
"Mr. Diggory, you are also being influenced. Control your mind. I am certain you know some occlumency. Utilize it." Albus looked back at Luna. "Ms. Lovegood, occlumency would not help you would it?"
"No Headmaster. I can feel magic constantly. Daddy said that Mommy could too, and that it was why we moved away from many people." Luna's voice was happy and joyous even though her eyes were sad at the mention of her mother.
"It was as I suspected. Pandora never verbalized her ability, but I suspected it was a form of magical sensation that most magical people developed. You have had this ability since birth correct?" Albus lightly asked as the pillar and bust slid out the way with a flick of his fingers.
"Yes headmaster." The two started towards the entrance of the passage way to the Ravenclaw tower.
"Gentlemen, this is where we leave you. I have more to discuss with Ms. Lovegood, Sirius, you have to discuss somethings with Mr. Diggory. Goodnight." Albus spoke as he crossed the passage away threshold, the pillar and bust closing behind him.
"I love it when Dumbledore makes an exit. It's always entertaining." Sirius grinned before he looked at the bust seriously. "Calicula, Only professors of this institution and Ravenclaw students are allowed in past you tonight. I'm certain that the Headmaster will be adding protections to Ms. Lovegood, but I don't feel like taking chances."
For the first time in his memory the bust spoke, "An honorable idea, I require the passphrase to initiate however." Sirius nodded before he walked forward and whispered in the bust's ear. "Passphrase accepted, your orders are in effect."
Sirius and Cedric walked away, and made it down one flight of steps before Cedric's curiosity over took him. "Okay, what was that back there? I was there with Professor Lupin when he locked down the Ravenclaw dorm last year, and that didn't happen."
"We can discuss why you were headed to the Ravenclaw dorm at midnight last year another time." Sirius grinned at the blush that colored Cedric's cheeks. "That was something Remus didn't need to do. He was a professor, and well, I am not. I can't lock down the dorm. However the bust doesn't lead to the dorm kid."
"What are you talking about? That is how you get into the Ravenclaw common room and dorms." Cedric stated. That was the way Cho always took him.
"Kid, that's the back door. The front is a knocker that asks a riddle, and gauges intent. Many of the front doors to the common rooms do that. Even Slytherin's, though I suspect that it allows any student from that house in." Sirius explained as they went down another floor.
"I didn't know that." Cedric mumbled. Why hadn't Cho showed him the front door? Sirius seemed to read his mind.
"The knocker is another two floors up. The bust is closer to nearly every place in the castle except Gryffindor's tower."
Cedric made a noise of understanding as they stood outside Harry's practice room. Sirius grabbed his shoulder as Cedric reached for the doorknob. When he looked, Sirius gestured with his chin to a door further down. Without a word, the two went into the unused classroom and shut the door.
"Cedric, I'm going to be honest. If you can't control yourself around Harry, you won't be able to help." Sirius started.
"What are you- Oh. The goblet thing again." Cedric sighed as he realized what was going on.
"Yeah, the Goblet. I get it, the goblet affects me too. But Harry told me earlier that if I wasn't behind him supportively, get out. He's right. He can't just survive anymore. If he is going to live up to his Name, he is going to need to thrive, and he can't do that when people are being negative from his camp." Sirius related his godson's message.
Cedric nodded in agreement. "He's right. Give me a moment. I need to occlude." Cedric's eyes shut for a few moments as he went deathly still. Within two minutes, his eyes snapped back open and they were a duller color than before. Without a word to Sirius, he walked out of the room, and into Harry's Practice room.
"Interesting. Explains Snivellus' empty stare." Sirius snickered as he followed the Hufflepuff.
"In certain arts, Magic and the Soul and Mind are one and the same. Occlumency is one such art. In this art, your mind and soul are manifested on a plane most experts label the Mindscape. This mindscape is fueled into existence via your magic. In order for your magic to fuel the creation of the mindscape, one must experience an invasion into that very Mindscape." Severus Snape lectured Harry about the art that was his highest achievement. When Minerva asked him to teach the Last Potter about an art that he excelled in, he scuffed. At least until he saw a memory from his colleague about an exercise that Harry used to control something. The trio exercise had a wizard levitate an object of weight, while transfiguring a small object continuously, and holding a shield charm. It was designed to force a wizard to multitask and was a requirement for an O in the transfiguration OWL.
"Professor, how does one invade a mindscape that doesn't yet exist?" Harry asked. Severus hid a small smile, as that was the exact question that he asked Albus Dumbledore when he started to learn this in 6th year.
"The mindscape is a mix of magic, soul and mind. All these things already exist inside you, and will form a rudimentary defense at the first level of invasion. It is likely that you already have this defense, especially since the Dark Lord attacked you as a child." Severus explained patiently.
"Voldemort invaded my mind before attempting to kill me?" Harry's face scrunched up in disgust.
"Do not say that name!" Snape snapped. He took a calming breath and continued." The Dark Lord scanned the minds of most every one he encountered at least passively. It, along with various rituals and rites, gave him near precognitive reflexes in a duel. I have only seen him matched twice, and of them the Headmaster was the most capable."
"My dad pulled it off…" Harry mumbled. Everyone in the room was surprised when Severus nodded in agreement.
"Your father was, in my experience, a bully, an arrogant fool, and a dunderhead. However, I do not scorn the dead. He was also an extremely gifted wizard, who had access to tools that most do not. It was only via these tools that he was a match for the Dark Lord." Severus spoke calmly, and his eyes met Harry's as he spoke. Harry nodded in acceptance. He didn't agree with Severus, but he was allowed his opinion.
"You're an arsehole Snivellus." The voice of Sirius Black interrupted the lesson.
"Oh, the mutt returned. Minerva, please put a muzzle on him so I can get back to teaching his godson how to survive in a world of people who crave his secrets." Severus didn't even look up as he gazed into Harry's eyes.
Sirius sighed as he was faced with the glares of Minerva and surprising Cedric. "Sorry Snape. I don't like you. But you didn't deserve that."
"Apology accepted Sirius, now please let Professor Snape teach." Harry's voice caused Sirius' lip to twitch.
"Arrogant brat." Severus spoke in a monotone, but his eyes had a dulled sprinkle of humor in them that only Harry could have seen. "Luckily, you do have a rudimentary mindscape, it seems the Dark Lord did scan you before you were attacked. Now comes the harder practice. Forming it into something that reflects your soul, mind, and magic that can protect you in some way."
"Wouldn't a wall work?" Harry asked as he envisioned a wall around his mind.
"You are thinking too literal. A protective mind doesn't mean an isolated one or even a mind that is defended actively. The first step is to clear your mind. Clear it of all but your mindscape. When you are ready nod, and I shall enter your mind and we will continue there." Severus instructed quietly.
After a few minutes of relative silence, Harry nodded. With a look of concentration, Severus spoke."Legimens."
In Severus's mind's eye he saw an empty plan, with rocks and grass but little else. Speaking softly, knowing that Harry could hear him, he spoke. "Good. Now, think of a structure, the first structure that comes to mind, and plant it here."
In an instant, Hogwarts appeared in all her glory. Severus allowed himself a moment of surprise, as he expected something less intense. "Good. Imagine everything about this structure. Now, think of the first thing that comes to mind when you think of it, other than people."
Snape's eyes widened as phoenixes appeared flying above the building, their song adding force, texture and even scent to the mindscape. Severus exited Harry's mind and spoke verbally for the first time in several minutes.
"Good. Keep that mindscape. Now, you must organize your mind. Your memories, thoughts, emotions. I recommend doing so outside the mindscape structure, then moving it into the space. This is the part that your soul reflects on. How you organize, sort, and categorize is unique, and impossible to teach. It will take you a while, but whenever you feel you are done, come find me." Severus spoke softly, knowing Harry's head likely hurts.
"That's it?" Sirius spoke up from the corner, getting a grimace from Harry as his head pounded.
"Yes. If I was on a stricter time table, and there wasn't a homicidal cup asking for a reason to slaughter us, I would repeatedly invade his mind, and create the rudimentary defenses myself with each attack. But that would cause pain that could be counted as debilitating."Severus explained as he fluidly stood up. "As long as he cleared his mind every night, he would be an occlumens within three sessions, or in less than a week. As it is, depending on his concentration, he could finish in a week to three months."
Cedric spoke up next. "Did you mention the benefits of Occluding?"
"Of course. He knew that it would empower his spell casting to higher levels. He mentioned that he felt a pinnacle of focus, as if the entirety of his surroundings were analyzed and assessed within a millisecond when he was in the first task. That, in a nutshell is occlumency." Severus spoke as he started to leave. Sirius' eyes were wide and Snape saw as he passed. "I see you figured something out mutt. You are asking yourself, 'I have felt that since I escaped.'"
"My mindhealer said…" Sirius repeated.
"Your mindhealer is a dunderhead. Occlumency is a not a purely mental art. I'd suspect that as soon as you accept your soul, you would be able to Occlude." Severus stepped out of the room as Sirius looked on in confusion.
"So, the question is Sirius, what are you denying about yourself?" Cedric pointed out as he helped Harry up.
Harry was settled into bed the next day exhausted from training. For the first time today, he dueled Cedric and Sirius at the same time. They thoroughly beat him, each time. It was humiliating but a great learning experience. Minerva tucked him in, smiling slightly at his soft snores. As she left the dorm, she remembered how the day went.
Flashback
Cedric danced around Harry's spells like he was a wrath, countering with charms and jinxes until he had a sure way of hitting hard. Sirius' style never changed, a furious assault of magic that was protected by a knowledge of curses and shields that Harry had barely even cracked.
While those two were impressive, Minerva only had eyes on her pupil himself. She was astonished by the improvement she saw. Harry dueled them both, and while he wasn't winning by any means, he wasn't being destroyed either. Flicking into existence items to block Sirius' curses, moving fluidly around spells from Cedric, and always shifting himself into favorable positions, Harry dueled as if he was flying. It was pure unadulterated skill. And much like when he was flying, it was not even noticed by the boy.
While she was distracted by her thoughts, a cutting curse sliced across Harry's chest, that was retaliated with a bludgeoning curse that sent Cedric flying. "This duel is done!" Minerva called.
Instantly all wands were by the men's sides and Harry held a hand to his chest. Sirius went over and healed the cut easily enough as he spoke to his godson. "You did good kid. But next time, don't focus on one of us. We are as good as you if not better, so its important to realize that we take a shot if we see it." Harry nodded as he accepted the advice and asked to go again.
Minerva bit her lip as she approved them to begin again. This was the worst part of this. She remembered doing this exact thing with James Sirius and Remus with Peter acting as support. She remembered justifying it due to the war and allowing them to duel each other under her supervision. She remembered hating it then as well.
Flashback end
Minerva went to her office and a bottle of Olden's Finest.
Three weeks pasted in this way. Every morning, Harry would be out of bed, sitting in the common room meditating before even the brightest Seventh year attended their earliest class. Hermione and Ron would sit in the common room at the end of the day and watch as Harry was carried exhausted back to his bed.
It wasn't until the last day of term that they found Harry waiting in the common room for them instead of meditating. "Hey guys. Your classes are going to be cancelled today, thought I'd tell you myself. Especially since Dumbledore is doing it for the Chosen."
"What are you talking about Mate?" Ron asked as the trio started to head towards the great hall, bags forgotten in the wake of the news.
"You'll find out. It's a pleasant surprise." Harry smiled at Hermione's huff of annoyance. "So Hermione, how is runes?"
As Hermione started talking about Celtic verses Nordic runes, Harry nodded. He idly threw an arm around Ron's shoulder and whispered in his ear,"You asked her to the ball right?"
Ron replied,"Of course, that first weekend after finding out about it. I had to make sure I'd have dress robes for it."
"Good mate, cause if you didn't I'd have to curse ya." Harry joked.
"If you two are done gossiping, I would like to continue my explaination of runes!" Hermione scolded with a smile.
"Sorry!" The two separated and pretended to stand at attention.
The three broke down into laughter that continued even during breakfast.
"Attention Breakfast goers! Today, classes are cancelled, and if you look outside, you will notice an abundance of snow. I was informed by a wonderful first year from Hufflepuff, that certain schools would give snow days on such days. So, I have decided to attempt it just once, since all classes have finished their exams. Enjoy your break, and if you are leaving the castle for it, the Express will leave tomorrow at 9 am as is custom." The voice of Albus Dumbledore called over the excited chatter of the students who were just told their break came a day early.
As he settled in his chair he smiled wide. This was the best part of his job. The ability to see the hundreds of smiling students eager to live, learn and prosper. On his right, Madam Maxime nodded in approval. "Dumbly-dore, I am in agreement with your choice. The Professors would merely have the students reviewing."
Karkaroff smiled softly at his students who were looking at him for instruction. "Durmstrang Students, you may also partake in this snow day instead of your scheduled lectures today. Enjoy this free day." The emphasis of the word Free was taken as an insult by the other schools, while the Durmstrang students knew what the Headmaster meant.
Krum stood swiftly and headed out the door. He would not waste a single moment of this day. Fleur and the rest of her fellow Beauxbatons students did the same, as snow days for them were unheard of. The rest of Hogwarts swiftly finished breakfast, before getting ready to brave the snow and wind.
"Harry! Grab your broom!" Angelina barged into the Fourth year male dorm out of breath. Harry was pulling on an extra sweater and asked a muffled,"Why?"
"Viktor Krum and Durmstrang are about to play an impromptu game and I may have said you were the best seeker in Hogwarts for the last 10 years." Angelina blushed slightly when Harry gave her a flat stare. "Well its true! Wood reckons you are better than Charlie Weasley when he was here and he was good enough to go pro easily."
"Fine. I'll fly against Krum. But don't expect me to win." Harry grabbed his Firebolt from his trunk and walked out with Angelina.
As the two walked towards the pitch, the rest of the Gryffindor team assembled behind them. The twins were grinning ear to ear, their red hair clashing wonderfully with their red sweaters. Between them, Oliver Wood was giddy with excitement. Katie Bell and Alicia Spinnet were joking to each other about how many goals they will get before Harry wins the match.
As the team walked towards the entrance hall, they got good luck chants from every single Hogwarts student they passed, no matter the year or house. Even the Slytherin captain nodded towards them and said,"Win for Hogwarts." Finally, the team exited the Castle and headed towards the Pitch.
Harry took a deep breath as they settled into the locker room of the Pitch. They heard the thuds of hundreds of feet finding places to sit. As they settled in themselves, the room started to heat up as the audience started casting warming charms around themselves. Wood stood and opened his mouth, as he normally did to begin a pep talk, but nothing came out of it. He tried again, and nothing came to mind.
"I don't know what to say. If anyone has anything to say, before we go out there and play… come on up." Wood sat as soon as Fred and George stood.
"You all know… We have been in our brother Charlie's shadow in this game for years. We were never bitter were we Fred?" The left one, George, said.
"Of course not George, we have many more talents than just the amazing quidditch ones." Fred joked back, and the team chuckled along.
"Today, we do something that Charlie never did. We get to play against a pro Quidditch star." George continued. The team was quiet as that settled in.
The team continued to sit in silence before hearing a whistle announcing the 1 minute warning before the game began. Harry gathered his courage and stood. In an instant the whole of the team was looking at him.
"I've heard that I am the best flyer to be at Hogwarts in a decade. I don't know. I do know that Krum is considered the best Seeker in the world today. But, Krum is one man. His team isn't the best in the world, his chasers aren't Ireland, and his keeper isn't English. We have the best keeper at Hogwarts, the best chaser line this side of the Holyhead Harpies, we have the best beater duo I have ever had the priveledge of knowing of. I can't promise I can out fly Viktor Krum. But I can promise, that I am going to do my best to try. In exchange, I want you all to win. I want you all to do the absolute best you can to win this for us." Harry spoke softly at first, before he built into a strong finish, shoving his hand into the circle of people. "We no longer represent just Gryffindor. We represent Hogwarts. And Hogwarts doesn't make losers!"
Wood slapped his hand on Harry's followed by the twins, then the chasers. Wood nodded at Harry and said,"Well said. Hogwarts on three. One Two Three."
"HOGWARTS."
The crowd was massive for the impromptu game. Organized in under three hours, students, professors, and Hogsmead villagers showed up. Then came the guests from all over Britain. Mostly parents, but a few standouts also attended. The most impressive being the director of British Quidditch League, and Ludo Bagman. Ludo in particular was arguing with Minerva McGonagall over who was going to commentate the match.
"Now Minerva! We have pro level talent in this match, and as such I should definitely commentate!" The smile on Ludo's face didn't melt the stern visage of Minerva.
"I have told you multiple times Mr. Bagman, that this event was created by the students. As such they will commentate, as is their right!" Minerva countered.
Their argument was interrupted by an amplified voice covering the stadium. "Ladies and Gentlemen! Welcome to the first ever, Hogwarts Durmstrang Snow Day Playoff! I am your commentator Lee Jordan, and beside me is my collegue in this unprecedented event is Clyde Notewich!"
"Greetings! As my young collegue said, I am Clyde Notewich, and for the first time in history, we will see a pro level Quidditch Player against a non-pro."
"I don't know Clyde, our Harry down there, he is definitely skilled. I would say he is definitely better than Lynch was at the World Cup."
"That's a strong claim Lee, not many people can fly with Viktor Krum. If what you say is true, we are gonna see one today. But as we know from the World Cup, the Seekers only end the game, they don't win it."
"You can say that again Clyde. This game will come down to the chasers, keepers, and beaters. And since it is that time, we should introduce them. Representing Durmstrang! Playing Keeper, and as acting captain of the Quidditch team, Adal Hauss! Playing Chaser Left Wing, Jolan Nanu. His brother, Jurgen Nanu is playing Chaser Right wing! Leading Chaser is Renke Fure! The beater Duo are Jasper Lewis, and Flexina Kuid! Their seeker, said to be the best seeker in the world, VIKTOR KRUM!" As they were introduced, the Durmstrang team flew out, doing a lap of the pitch before settling into their representative locations for the toss-up.
Clyde continued from where Lee left off." Representing Hogwarts, and I have been told Gryffindor House! Playing Keeper, and current team captain! Oliver Wood! Playing Chaser Left wing! Angelina Johnson! Playing Chaser Right Wing, Alicia Spinnet! Leading Chaser is Katie Bell! The beater Duo are Fred Weasley and George Weasley! Their seeker, seeking to beat Krum at his own game, HARRY POTTER!" The Hogwarts representatives repeated what the Durmstrang team did, before lining up opposite their counter parts.
Viktor called over the wind and the announcers stating who would be officiating the game,"I hope you are good on that broom Harry!"
Harry grinned back as a gust of wind ruffled his hair. "I just hope you aren't all hype Viktor! It will be a first that someone can keep up!"
"I was about to say the same thing! Good luck Harry Potter. You are going to need it." Just as he finished the Snitch flew up from the box, and hovered infront of them both. Locking eyes on their prize, the two seekers exploded into motion. Viktor flew high, shooting upwards to get a bird's eye view, as Harry dive bombed the Durmstrang Chasers who were attempting to take possession of the Quaffle from Alicia.
"And we immediately see different strategies from our Seekers!" Lee's voice blasted out over the remnants of the whistle and the roar of the crowd. Clyde's voice continued the thought. "We have a supportive seeker role from Potter, supporting the continued passing of the quaffle between Spinnet, Johnson and Bell. Krum is going proactive, hoping to end this fast. Likely a good idea since Bell just faked, Johnson has it, Goal for Hogwarts! 10-0 Hogwarts."
Harry shot by a bludger headed towards Fred or George's bat as he started to fly a circular pattern around the pitch. His eyes tracked any sense of movement, and he rolled just in time to avoid Viktor.
Krum dived towards Harry. His school team wasn't good enough to keep up with those chasers and worry about a supportive seeker; most teams weren't. He started to fly around Harry, constantly attempting to drive him off course.
Harry grinned before he dived toward the Chaser formation again, this time with Krum attempting to push and nudge him around. Right before he would be in line with the chasers, he dived lower, forcing Krum, who was above him, into the chaser's formation, breaking it up. In that moment of confusion, Harry shot up, and swiftly surveyed the area for the snitch.
"And Harry just did a marvelous Driftveil Screwjob! Forcing Krum into his own chaser line, anddd Madame Hooch just called a penalty on Krum for touching the quaffle! That was beautiful!" Clyde's voice called out the play. Krum responded by shooting up and flying alongside Harry.
"You know Harry, when I said I hoped you were good on that Broom, I didn't expect this."
"Well Viktor, I don't like to disappoint, so…" Harry grinned before he focused on a spot towards the stands, shooting off after it. He heard as he dove Viktor swear in German. His eyes were focused on the patch of gold hovering by the wall of the pitch.
Harry swerved to the left of George who slammed a bludger towards Krum. Krum just casually rolled, not losing any speed or trajectory as he blasted after Harry. The snitch darted to the right and Harry strained his broom to make a sharp 80 degree corner, losing precious speed in the process. Harry growled when Krum swirled in between him and the darting snitch, missing with a swipe as the snitch slipped lower than expected. Harry smiled as Krum grunted from the G forces to make the corner as they both dived after the golden ball. As they dived, Krum got a slight lead. As he reached for the Snitch, Harry launched himself off the firebolt, making a swipe for the Snitch. His fingertips brushed up against it, forcing it into Viktor's grasp.
Harry landed hard on the ground, rolling forward until the momentum was he popped back to his feet, completely uninjured from the 15 foot fall at over 90 kmh.
"And with the snitch, in a marvelous Seeker battle, Viktor Krum WINS THE GAME. 150 to 140 Durmstrang." Clyde's voice called out over the crowd.
"You will make a marvelous Pro-seeker Harry. You understand instinctually what you need to fly well. This game was a matter of experience." Viktor smiled as he held his hand out to shake.
Harry grinned back shaking the offered hand. "Revel in it Viktor. It's the only win you will get from me."
The Bulgarian laughed heartedly at that," Harry, I like you. You are confident, and that is refreshing. You are wrong of course, but its still refreshing. I'll see you at the ball friend."
As soon as Harry said good bye in return, the crowds from the quidditch match descended upon them.
The days to the ball passed quickly, with many couples being formed and many of them attending the Gladrags Hogsmead branch. All the preparations led to this day. The Hogwarts Professors kicked people out of the Great Hall after lunch.
As students started to drift towards the Great Hall, Harry found himself standing on the Grand Staircase. He was in his dress robes, which Sirius picked up after the ones from Diagon didn't fit well. The dress robes were of a shimmering black material with symbols in dark blue around the sleeves. As more and more couples started to line up, to enter the Great Hall, Harry was left alone.
It was exactly 6:45pm, when Harry heard a soft hello from behind him. After he turned he took in Luna's dress.
A dress of silver fabric that flared from her hips, the dress clung to her torso as if it was a second skin. Symbols of dark blue covered the fabric, swirling gently as if in a breeze. Harry smiled softly as he offered his arm.
"Shall we?"
"Of course, Harry. One must make a grand entrance." Luna replied as she entwined her arm with Harry's. They walked slowly down the stairs. Within moments, they were surrounded by other couples dressed in finery. Eventually they were infront of the doors to the great hall and greeting the other Chosen.
Fleur was the most dazzling of the chosen. In a purely white dress, she was the most beautiful woman that Harry had ever seen. Her skin seemed to glow, and on her arm was Cedric Diggory, in pure white and gold robes.
"Okay, you have a story to tell me Cedric." Harry said to his friend.
"After a few dances." Cedric winked.
Harry turned his gaze onto the other Chosen. Viktor stood in blood red military style robes. Beside him was a beautiful man, with swept back golden hair, and soulful blue eyes. An easy smile decorated his lips, and he was clasping one of Viktor's hands.
"Viktor, who are the young ones?" The beautiful man asked. His voice was melodic, and his thin blue robes shifted as he leaned into Viktor.
"This is Harry and his date. Harry, this is Fredrick Gartho my engaged." The group was silent until Luna asked about Fredrick's necklace.
He lifted out the pendent from under his robes and showed the lightingbolt that was on fire. "Oh, it was a gift from my dad. He owes the Firebolt company."
"That's where I knew your name! Gartho sent me a letter this summer about my firebolt." Harry spoke up. Cedric looked interested at the concept of a broommaker's son.
"Really? That's interesting. They are normally just for professional players. You must be good." Fredrick smiled at Harry. Viktor laughed," Good? Harry touched the snitch before me!"
"Oh? Touched before you? I assume you caught it dear?" Fredrick teased lightly.
"Of course I won. I don't lose." Viktor sassed back.
"Wonderful, you three are here. We can open the dance now. Who is dancing with whom?" Minerva darted over, and started fussing over Harry's hair. With a swift glance, she took in the couples. "Viktor, I assume that is Fredrick? You two are beautiful together. Fleur congratulations on Mr. Diggory. He is the pride of Hufflepuff. Harry, your hair doesn't ever flatten does it?"
"No professor. Sorry." Harry's blush nearly matched Viktor's robes. Luna was the only one openly laughing at him, but everyone else was snickering.
"Enough picking on the youngest Minerva. Its time to open the ball." Sirius spoke from McGonagall's side, his dress robes matching hers.
"Of course. Once we go through, count to ten, and open the doors. Have fun!" Minerva and Sirius entered the hall, shutting the door before the Chosen and their dates got a peek inside. It was only then that they noticed that there was not anyone else in the Entrance Hall.
Fleur started the count, in French. "Un." Cedric followed, in French."Deux". Fredrick picked up the count smiling,"drei,vier." Viktor continued the trend in Bulgarian. "Pet, Sest". Luna continued in Greek," Exi, epta, octo!" Harry finished, in English. "Nine, Ten."
The Great Hall doors opened.
An: So, it has been a while. My last few weeks have been hectic, crazy, and full of IRL things. Brightsides, I have a significant other now, and I got a raise. but these things happen. Now for the Chapter. There is a lot going on here, and while I could have split it up, I didn't think it was a good idea. We have an impromptu Quidditch Game, which will be used later on as important. We have Viktor announcing his sexuality to the world, which will be fun next chapter. Fleur and Cedric are a thing, at least for the dance. That story will be next. Oh and the Yule ball tells us about how the Second Task is gonna try to kill them this time. I suspect, I will switch POV alot next chapter. So until next time.