Chapter 34
The Start-of-Term Feast, Year 2 ½

Author's Note: This chapter begins moments before the last chapter ended.


Sunday, January 3rd, 1993 – Evening

As Harry entered the Great Hall with Hermione and Dora, they were confronted by the Hogwarts caretaker, Argus Filch. The recently revived Mrs. Norris, Filch's cat, was standing near his feet. Filch was holding a roll of parchment.

"Names?" Filch grunted.

Even though they were quite sure the caretaker already knew their names, Harry and Hermione gave their names to Filch. He nodded slightly, made a couple marks on the parchment with a quill, then walked out the doors with his cat following.

"What was that all about?" Harry asked.

"Roll call," Dora said, "Making sure all the students are present. Go find your seats, kids. I need to head to the Staff Table."

Harry and Hermione said their farewells to Dora, then headed toward the Gryffindor Table. Harry knew that Hermione was nervous, since this was the first time she was amongst so many people – the Great Hall was much more populated than Diagon Alley had been over a week ago – who didn't know her secret. Both knew her secret would be revealed by the end of the feast, but it would be on Headmistress McGonagall's terms. Until then, none of the students would know her secret due to the Notice-Me-Not Charm, even though her cat-ears and tail were in full view of the students; aside from the charm, she was doing nothing to hide them from view.

As Harry and Hermione made their way toward their usual seats, they noticed Ron sitting next to his brother, Percy, far from the area where they would be sitting. When Ron saw them, he waved at them. Harry and Hermione both glared at him, and he winced and looked away. Percy had noticed the whole thing, and merely nodded respectfully in Harry's direction. He nodded back, before walking down to where the rest of the second years were sitting. Hermione sat next to Neville, and Harry sat on her other side, next to Parvati Patil.

"Hi, Harry," Parvati said; then leaned toward him and said in a low voice, "Padma will meet us after the Feast."

"'Us'?" Harry asked.

"I have a few things I want to talk to you about too, Harry," Parvati said, "All of which can be said in private."

"Alright," Harry said.

Harry was slightly surprised Parvati was speaking to him so nicely. He had gotten the impression from her father's letter that she wasn't very happy with him. Uneasy about her sister's Betrothal to him – maybe jealous. Perhaps that was what she wanted to talk to him about.

"There's something different about you, Harry," Parvati said, studying him, "Where are your glasses?"

"Long story," Harry said, "I'll discuss it later. Just know that I can now see perfectly without the need for glasses."

Parvati looked thoughtful, but said nothing.

"Harry!" Colin Creevey said, from a few seats down the table, where he was seated next to Ginny Weasley "Hi, Harry!"

"Hi, Colin," Harry said, smiling, "Welcome back."

"Thanks!" Colin said, grinning, "I feel like a time-traveler! One day it was the middle of November, and next it was the last day of the year!"

Several of his fellow first year Gryffindors around him snickered and chuckled. Harry merely nodded and smiled. He caught Ginny looking at him, and when she saw him looking at her, she blushed and looked away. Harry sighed and shook his head. Hermione had told him that Ginny fancied him, and her behavior toward him was due to this. He wasn't looking forward to what her reaction would be when she found out he and Hermione were together, and he was Betrothed to other girls – though that news probably wouldn't become public for a while, thank goodness. Even though he had been Compelled to meet the Weasley family, and even though Ron and his mother had betrayed him, he liked some of the Weasleys. He wanted to be friends with them still. As long as he could trust them.

A buzz began amongst the students around the hall as Headmistress Minerva McGonagall and Amelia Bones strode down the aisle toward the Staff Table.

"A new era begins," Parvati quipped.

"Hmm?" Harry asked.

"The era of Headmistress McGonagall," Parvati said. "Daddy told me and Padma on the way to King's Cross, that we should expect a lot of changes around Hogwarts, now that Professor McGonagall is the Headmistress."

"Gran said the same thing to me," Neville commented, beside Hermione, "She was in charge of the Governor meeting that voted Professor McGonagall as Headmistress. She said that Professor McGonagall was talking about a lot of rule changes, and possibly even new classes starting next school term. She said she was highly impressed by Professor McGonagall's plans for the school now that she's in charge."

"New classes?" Hermione asked, "Brilliant!"

"Depends on what the classes will be," Seamus said, "But I'm sure there would be some good ones."

"Hey, maybe she'll fire Binns!" Dean said, grinning.

"I think you mean exorcise him," Seamus said, snorting softly.

"That's not nice, Seamus," Hermione said, "Binns doesn't need to be exorcised, even if he does get fired."

"The geezer doesn't know he's dead, Hermione," Lavender said, from her seat on the other side of Parvati, "I agree with Seamus. Exorcising him would be polite."

A sudden shuffle of feet near the large doorsmade the conversation stop as several students, including most of the second year Gryffindors, looking toward the commotion. Several figures – Aurors and Unspeakables – stepped into the Great Hall and positioned themselves at various sections of the walls around the large room.

"Blimey!" Seamus said, "It is the same blokes who were greeting us at Hogsmeade Station. What are they doing here?"

"I'm sure Headmistress McGonagall will explain it to us," Hermione said.

A sharp ding stopped the conversation, as most of the students turned toward the Staff Table. Headmistress McGonagall was now standing in front of Dumbledore's old chair. Tiny Professor Flitwick sat on her right, and Madam Bones sat on her left.

"Good evening students, staff and guests," McGonagall said, "I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday. Before we begin the feast, there are a couple announcements I would like to make. I have a lot to say to you tonight, most of which can be said after we have finished with our meal. But I hope your empty stomachs can give me a few minutes of your time. To begin, I'm sure most of you have heard the news by now. Yesterday afternoon, the School Governors did me a great honor and named me the new Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."

The Hall roared in approval, as Harry and Hermione joined the staff and most of the students applauding the new Headmistress. Harry noticed that there were several students, however – most of whom were Slytherins, who were not applauding at all. Draco Malfoy and his goons were among those glaring at McGonagall, and at various students who were applauding.

"If you've been paying attention to the news," McGonagall continued, after the Hall went quiet again, "I'm sure you won't be surprised with my next two announcements. The former Headmaster, Albus Dumbledore, has begun his well-deserved retirement, and will not be returning to Hogwarts for any purpose. Former Potions Master, Severus Snape, was arrested last week, and charged with several crimes. He is now in Azkaban Prison."

There was some applause and a few cheers at this announcement. A few of the Slytherins, including Malfoy and his goons, were jeering. McGonagall raised her wand, and shot sparks from it, quieting the Hall.

"We have three new staff members amongst us," she continued; she motioned to Dora's mother. "Andromeda Tonks is a former Healer at St. Mungo's. She has also taught Potions at Brighton Auror Academy. Please give a warm welcome to your new Potions Mistress, Professor Andromeda Tonks!"

Harry and Hermione joined the applause from most of the students. Harry noticed Draco Malfoy glaring and sneering in Professor Tonks' direction. He knew that Andromeda was Draco's Aunt. Obviously he didn't like her very much. Or perhaps it was the fact that she was the replacement for Draco's favorite Professor. Maybe both."

"Astronomy Professor, Aurora Sinistra, has been named the new Head of Slytherin," McGonagall continued.

Much of the Slytherin table was clapping and cheering, though many of them, including Draco, looked shocked – and perhaps scared? – that Sinistra was the new Head of their House. Harry realized something. Snape obviously had plenty of bias toward the Slytherins. It was quite likely that Sinistra wouldn't share the same bias. Also, Draco had been able to get away with a lot while Snape was Head of Slytherin. Perhaps he realized it wouldn't be the same now.

"Obviously since I am now Headmistress, I am no longer in charge of the other positions I once held," McGonagall continued. "Taking my place in the Deputy Headmaster position is Charms Professor, and Head of Ravenclaw, Filius Flitwick!"

The Ravenclaw table burst out in cheers and applause, as if they had just won the House Cup. Most of the other students also joined in the applause.

"Next," McGonagall continued, "Remus Lupin has a history of teaching and tutoring, and was a brilliant student in several subjects including Transfiguration and Defense. During his time as a student in Gryffindor, he was named Prefect and was in the running for Head Boy. Please give a warm welcome to your new Transfiguration Professor and Head of Gryffindor, Professor Lupin!"

Harry and Hermione applauded loudly, as most of the Hall joined them. Many Gryffindors were cheering for their new Head of House.

"Finally," McGonagall continued, "Several years ago, Professors of Hogwarts were assisted in their classes by Apprentices. These Apprentices would be substitutes when said Professors had sick-days, and many succeeded them as Professors for the subject after said Professor retired. I am currently testing the waters, so to speak when it comes to bringing back the Apprentice system. I believe many of our older students, especially Hufflepuffs, will recognize the youngest new staff member. She was a student here as recent as June when she finished her education. Please welcome Apprentice Professor to the Transfiguration post, Nymphadora Tonks!"

Harry and Hermione joined the older Hufflepuff students as they cheered loudly for Dora. Most of the students joined in, and her mother, Andromeda, stood and applauded. When Dora's hair turned from pink to red, several students laughed, while others murmured in surprise.

"As you can see, she is a Metamorphmagus," McGonagall continued, "If she has to take over the class as substitute, I'm sure she'll show off her talents, and teach you about Metamorphs. Finally, before we begin our meals, I have one last announcement. I would like to congratulate Madam Poppy Pomfrey, our Healer, on successfully reviving the Petrified victims. And I would like to welcome back Colin Creevey, Justin Finch-Fletchley, Gryffindor ghost Nearly-Headless Nick, and Mr. Filch's cat, Mrs. Norris."

The Hall roared with applause and cheers. Colin was looking excited for the attention, though he was blushing too. Madam Pomfrey was blushing fiercely as she smiled from her seat at the staff table.

"I have much more to say before the evening is over," McGonagall continued, once silence reigned again, "But I think it can be said after we eat. Without further ado, let the feast begin!"

A delicious assortment of food options appeared at every table. As everyone begin filling their plates, the discussion around Harry resumed.

"I have to question Professor – Headmistress McGonagall's decision for the new Deputy Headmaster," Lavender said, surprising everyone around her.

"Why?" Hermione asked, "Professor Flitwick is brilliant!"

"I won't argue with you on that, Hermione," Lavender said, "He's a great Professor. It's just something my father told me. Daddy is part of the Board of Governors, along with Neville's Grandmother. He told me that during the meeting to decide the new Head of Hogwarts, Professor McGonagall admitted she was rather overworked having three staffing positions – Transfiguration Professor, Head of Gryffindor, and Deputy Headmistress. Apparently Professors Flitwick, Sprout and even Snape were all more dedicated to the Houses they led than the Headmistress was. Think about it, Hermione. Has the Headmistress ever discussed in-House issues with the Gryffindors in general, or in private with various students like yourself?"

Hermione frowned and shook her head. Harry had to admit that Lavender had a good point. He was reminded of the night he, Hermione and Ron had rescued the Philosopher's Stone. They had warned McGonagall about it beforehand, and she had basically waved them off, instead of taking the three of them – members of her own House – seriously. Of course, it was possible she had been Compelled to do so through Compulsion Draughts. But that wasn't just a lone issue, was it? Lavender was right. McGonagall had never dedicated time to the Gryffindor House to discuss in-House issues.

"I thought Daddy might have been wrong," Lavender said, "So I talked to some Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs on the train earlier today, and they said that both Flitwick and Sprout were very dedicated to discussing things with the students of their House. They had meetings every week – at least once a week – to discuss in-House issues. Even though he was a git, I have to assume Snape did the same thing. My point, however, is now the Headmistress has put Professor Flitwick in the same position."

"Professor Flitwick must have accepted the position, though," Parvati said, "He must have agreed to it."

"Yeah," Hermione agreed. "Also, you have to take something else into account. Professor McGonagall has only been Headmistress for about a day. True, she's probably been prepared to take the position ever since Dumbledore's arrest. But these past twenty-four hours must have been really busy for her. Hiring two new Professors and an Assistant Professor as well."

"Plus everything that is happening with the Unspeakables and Aurors," Harry added. "That had to take up a lot of her time."

"Yeah," Hermione said, "Professor Flitwick, like the Headmistress, has been here for a long time. I don't think she felt there was anyone better for the job besides Professor Flitwick. It could have been a desperate move in her part. But I think she put a lot of thought into it."

There were general nods of agreement from the students in the vicinity who were paying attention to the discussion. Lavender merely shrugged, though she looked thoughtful.

"So those fellows in the strange get-up are Unspeakables?" Seamus asked, "Aren't they from the Department of Mysteries?"

"Hey!" Neville said, "One of those 'fellows in the strange get-up' is my Great-Uncle Algie, Seamus!"

"Sorry, Neville," Seamus said, grinning. "Anyway, I heard those guys don't leave the Department of Mysteries much, and there's a whole group here. What are they doing here?"

"Have you heard anything from your Great-Uncle about it, Neville?" Dean asked.

"He was at my house for dinner last night," Neville said, "But all he said is he was pretty busy, but that he had plans to be here at Hogwarts today."

"What did you expect?" Seamus asked, "There is a reason they're called Unspeakables. They don't speak about their work with just anyone."

"You said the Unspeakables and Aurors were taking up a lot of the Headmistress' time, Harry," Parvati said, "What did you mean by that?"

"Hermione and I met Neville's Great-Uncle and Madam Bones on New Year's Eve," Harry said, "When they were here to arrest Dumbledore and Snape. I'm not willing to discuss more about that in front of everyone."

"Dumbledore was cleared of all charges," Parvati said, "And Snape was arrested. So they can't be here because of that."

"Maybe it has to do with the Chamber of Secrets?" Neville suggested. "Maybe they're here to investigate?"

Harry merely shrugged. He and Hermione, of course, knew more about that. But he wasn't going to say too much.

"Madam Bones is sitting at the Staff Table," Hermione said, "I'm sure there's a reason behind that. She's probably here to make some sort of announcement. So I'm sure we'll all know more about it by the time the Feast is over."

"Definitely," Harry said, "So what do you guys think of Snape's replacement, Professor Tonks?"

"Headmistress McGonagall did say that Professor Tonks taught at Brighton Auror Academy," Parvati said, "They're supposed to be the best Auror Academy in not only Great Britain, but Europe. So I can't imagine they'd hire just anybody who submitted a CV. If she was a Professor there, then I'm sure she's brilliant."

"She has to be better than Snape was," Dean said.

"Yeah," Seamus agreed, "Because if not, then it might just be better to stop going to Potions."

"Probably better you stop going either way, Seamus," Neville said, grinning, "One more explosion and your eyebrows may never grow back!"

Seamus scowled as his year-mates – all of whom were well-acquainted with the boy's history with fire and explosions - laughed raucously. After a few moments, however, he joined in with the laughter.

As dinner continued, so did the conversations as Harry and Hermione joined in discussing various topics. Both knew that every minute that passed inched closer until everyone would know about Hermione's new lifestyle. They both wondered if the friendly behavior from their house-mates around them would continue once the truth was revealed.


Sunday, January 3rd, 1993 – Evening

Half-an-hour later, dinner had moved onto dessert. Headmistress Minerva McGonagall, herself, was enjoying a bowl of vanilla ice cream. At the exit behind the staff table, which two Aurors were guarding, Aurors Moody and Shacklebolt entered. Moody walked over to Amelia Bones, who was sitting to Minerva's left. Moody whispered something in Amelia's ear, then backed away.

"Thank you, Auror Moody," Amelia said.

Moody nodded once, then moved off to find a position amongst his fellow Aurors.

"Four Aurors are now watching the prisoner," Amelia said softly to Minerva, "Two inside the room where the prisoner is, and two guarding the room. Probably overcautious. The prisoner is stunned, back in his Animagus form, and in the cage."

"Auror Moody's orders, I presume," Minerva said, her lips twitching.

"Indeed," Amelia said, with a soft smile, then she sobered. "We need to continue now, Minerva. If the culprit is sitting before us, they must be suspicious of the presence of Aurors and Unspeakables. We must find them before they decide to do something dire."

"Surely they wouldn't do something so foolish?" Minerva replied, "They're surrounded by Aurors and Unspeakables, all of whom would cast spells on the suspect if they did something."

"Fear and paranoia are dangerous things, Minerva, "Amelia said, "Especially amongst children and teens – especially the guilty ones."

Minerva frowned, conceding her point. "How should I go about this? Investigation announcement first then announcement of new rules and rule changes?"

"Yes," Amelia said, "Let me do the announcement about the investigation, and then I will turn it over to you for the rest. The duration of your speech will give the team time to discover the culprit and prepare. I know you're going to reveal Miss Granger's situation to the students. Don't do so until I can give the word. It might present a nice distraction if we discover who the culprit is."

Minerva raised her eyebrows, as she looked at Amelia. She then understood Amelia's train of thought. If the culprit wanted to do something, perhaps the revelation of Hermione Granger's new lifestyle would shock them, and distract them.

Minerva nodded once to Amelia, then moved her spoon from her ice cream to her glass and tapped it three times. As she stood up, the students went quiet and turned their attention to the staff table.

"I'm sure your bellies are fit to burst, and you're ready to go to sleep for the evening," Minerva began, "However, the evening isn't over just yet. I have several things to speak to you about. To begin, I'm sure you've all noticed our many guests joining us this evening. For those of you who do not know her, seated beside me is Madam Amelia Bones, Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, British Branch. She is here to discuss something very important with you. Madam Bones?"

Minerva sat down as Amelia stood up.

"Thank you, Headmistress McGonagall," Amelia said, though she was looking at the students, "Thank you for allowing myself and my friends to join you for the Feast this evening. It has been many years since I have been able to enjoy the splendors of a Hogwarts Feast. By now, I'm sure all of you have noticed the Aurors and Unspeakables standing around the Great Hall. I'm sure you're all wondering why we're here. The Aurors and Unspeakables here have done a great service to Hogwarts. While most of you were at home enjoying the holidays with your families, the Aurors and Unspeakables, and myself, were all here ridding the castle of a terrible threat. It is my great pleasure to announce that the Chamber of Secrets threat is finally over!"

As the Hall roared from the applause and cheers from staff and students, the Unspeakables and Aurors around the Hall were studying each and every student. Each Auror and Unspeakable had their own area to study. It was a very tense moment for Minerva as she looked around the Hall. Had the plan worked? Were the Aurors and Unspeakables able to find the culprit?

"Through hard work and investigation," Amelia continued, "the location of the Chamber of Secrets was discovered. I'm sure all of you will understand that I cannot divulge the location of the Chamber. Know that it has been closed off permanently, thanks to the work of Unspeakables. The beast which, in the months since Halloween, Petrified two students, a cat, and a ghost was a Basilisk."

There were several gasps, shudders and other emotions.

"It is believed that the Basilisk was around one-thousand years old," Amelia said, "And that it once belonged to Salazar Slytherin himself. The beast survived all these years due to the enchantments Slytherin himself placed on the beast, and the Chamber itself. The beast has been destroyed, and cut up into pieces. The threat is over. You are no longer in danger from the beast."

Out of the corner of her eye, Minerva noticed Auror Moody walking behind the table again. He was headed over to Amelia. Had he, or one of his colleagues, discovered the culprit. As Amelia sat down so she could speak to Moody, Minerva stood up.

"Thank you, Madam Bones," Minerva said, "And thank you Aurors and Unspeakables. I believe I speak for everyone in here when I say you have my gratitude."

She clapped, and the hall erupted in applause and cheers again. Amelia took advantage of the applause to lean over to Minerva.

"Auror Moody believes the culprit has been discovered," Amelia whispered to her, "There are several possible suspects, but he is quite certain of one in particular."

"Who?" Minerva asked.

Amelia's expression went grim. "Ginny Weasley."

Minerva gasped, her eyes wide, and her hands shaking. Ginny Weasley? One of her own lions. It couldn't be possible! She couldn't be the Heir of Slytherin, responsible for the attacks!

"You're certain?" she asked.

"Ninety-nine percent," Amelia said, "Moody says the other suspects were likely just students who approved of Muggleborn getting attacked. It was expected. Moody said that Miss Weasley looked absolutely frightened, but it wasn't due to the news of the Basilisk. She looked frightened from the moment she heard the investigation was solved. She will be taken aside as the students leave the Hall. These men and women know what they're doing. There's no doubt, Minerva."

Minerva tried to control her emotions. She knew she had a lot more to say, including the news of Miss Granger's new lifestyle. If she didn't calm down, the students would surely notice something was wrong. She cleared her throat and straightened herself.

"Moving on," Minerva said. "When I decided I wanted to become the Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, I had several reasons for doing so. Every new Headmaster and Headmistress of this school has had the dream of improving Hogwarts to be better than the last Headmaster or Headmistress had left it. It is no secret that I greatly admired Albus Dumbledore as a man. But as the Headmaster of this school, he had his many faults."

There were expressions of shock, and murmurs and whispers from students who voiced such shock that the Headmistress had dared to say such a thing. But many other students seemed to be in agreement with her.

Minerva cleared her throat again, this time loudly, and continued. "In the past, during Dumbledore's tenure, rule-breaking was either met with less-than-deserved punishments or rules were outright ignored. I understand what I am about to say might be met with opposition. You might believe I am being too strict. But I believe this will benefit everyone here greatly. Rules are meant to be followed, and enforced, after all. But it isn't simply the students who must follow these rules, but also the Professors."

Several students, who had been showing emotions about the announcement that rules would be enforced, were now showing expressions of shock from the announcement that Professors would also have rules to follow.

"Therefore, I have several rule changes or improvements," Minerva continued. "First. The House Points System. In the past, there were several incidents of unfair loss of points. Points would be taken away for foolish reasons. On the opposite end of the spectrum, there were also Professors who rewarded points for foolish reasons. That will come to an end as of today. At the end of every day, there will be a review of all points received and lost for that day. If there is any issues of unfairness in loss or gaining of House points, it will be remedied. In addition, if any student here feels that they were unfairly docked points, you have permission to discuss it with either myself, Professors, the House Prefects and the Head Boy and Girl. Prefects and Head Students, please stand up and make yourselves recognized."

The choice students did as requested. Minerva thanked them and they sat down.

"However," Minerva said, "I do not want you to complain about every point you were docked. If you complain and it turns out the docking of points were fair, you will be docked additional points for unnecessary complaining. So choose your complaints wisely."

Minerva smiled as most of the Hall showed their approval of this announcement.

"In addition," she continued, "Detentions will be put under the same review system. At the end of every day, detentions will be reviewed. Because of this, no staff member can hand out detentions that are to be served on the same day. If you feel you were given a detention unfairly, again, report it to staff, Head Students, or Prefects. Once again, choose wisely, however. Additional detentions will be given for unnecessary complaints."

Once again, approval was shown from students around the Hall.

"In addition to the changes in Points System, and Detentions," Minerva continued, "There are changes in rules, enforcement of rules, and new rules in place. First, I will discuss the creation of the four-strike system. Each strike refers to the breaking of most rules discussed tonight. First strike, a warning and a severe loss of house-points. Second strike, detentions ranging from possibly one to numerous detentions depending on the severity of the crime. Third strike is suspension from school. You will either be sent home for a number of days, or you will serve an in-school suspension depending on the severity of the crime. Fourth and final strike is expulsion. Permanent removal from this school. Expulsion would not look good on your records, ladies and gentlemen."

There were several whispers and murmurs around the Hall. There were also looks of approval, as well as disapproval.

"Now, onto the rules," Minerva said, "All rules, including those discussed tonight, will be available to be read at any time in each of your classrooms and on the noticeboards in your dormitories. There will be no excuse for not understanding the rules. The first rule improvement... concerns bullying."

Minerva noted, unsurprisingly, several grimaces and other similar expressions from students, especially many at the Slytherin table.

"In the past, bullying was usually met with a slap on the wrist," she continued. "No longer. There are several forms of bullying. First there is verbal bullying. Any insults or remarks regarding race, gender, blood, sexuality, or species are unacceptable."

There were several confused reactions when she said 'species'. She would clear that up soon, but first she needed to clarify the others.

"Insults such as 'Mudblood', 'blood-traitor', and derogatory terms regarding Houses are not allowed," Minerva said. "I warn you now. Do not think that just because there isn't a staff member, Head student, or Prefect around, that you won't be caught if you break this or any rule. You will be caught. You noticed that I noted the word 'species'. I did so for a reason. In the past, Hogwarts has accepted werewolves, Veela, Nekos, Metamorphmagi, and other types of of half-human students into this school. Two of your fellow students is one of these types. Would said students please reveal yourselves?"

Minerva smiled encouragingly in the direction of Hermione Granger and Harry Potter. Harry looked mildly shocked that he had to reveal himself too. Hopefully he understood that she was doing this for a reason. Revealing the pair together would offer the other courage that their Mate was doing this at the same time.

Most of the students gasped as Harry and Hermione stood from the table. There were even louder gasps when Harry changed his hair color to turn multiple colors, before changing back to normal, and even more when Hermione's Notice-Me-Not Charms vanished, revealing her true form.

"Mr. Potter is a Metamorphmagus," Minerva said, "He has been one since birth, but only recently discovered his abilities. He is not the only Metamorphmagus inside this castle at the present time. Apprentice Professor Tonks?"

Nymphadora stood up and changed her hair to several colors before changing it back to hot pink.

"I am sure Apprentice Professor Tonks will be pleased to teach you about Metamorphmagi," Minerva continued, "if she takes over the class of Transfiguration as substitute in the future, so that you can better understand Metamorphmagi. Please do not bother Mr. Potter about it. He is not your Professor. In addition, Miss Hermione Granger is what is known as a Neko. This is a recent development due to an accident she was involved in. This is her lifestyle from now on. She has bravely decided not to hide herself from you. Please treat her just the same as she was. Any bullying due to her new lifestyle will be met with severe punishment. Thank you Mr. Potter, Miss Granger."

Harry and Hermione returned to their seats.

"To better understand Nekos," Minerva continued, "Professor Lockhart has decided to dedicate the next few classes to that very subject."

Minerva had difficulty refraining from rolling her eyes when Lockhart stood, bowed and smiled. When he sat back down, Minerva continued.

"In addition to verbal bullying, there are other causes of bullying," she said, "Physical bullying, such as tripping, shoving, knocking others over, to name a few, will not be tolerated.

"Similar to the physical act of bullying, is of course dueling. I'm sure I do not have to tell you that no magic is to be used in the corridors. This includes dueling. Dueling is not only harmful to all students, but it can lead to further issues. Those of you who are members of notable Houses of Great Britain should already know this. Dueling without the permission of your Head of Familial House is not only forbidden in Hogwarts, but forbidden in Great Britain. In this case, dueling does not pertain to the four-strike system. All cases of dueling or attempts to duel will be met with the appropriate punishment, including but not limited to the possibility of DMLE involvement."

She looked at Amelia, who nodded to enforce this.

"Another crime that goes outside the four-strike system," Minerva said, "is sexual harassment. If you found committing any kind of sexual harassment or assault, you will be met with the appropriate punishment, which could include not just DMLE involvement but prison time. Again, I should not have to inform you of that. It should be common sense."

Minerva paused and took a sip of her drink, so that the students could let the information settle.

"I am also enforcing what I refer to as the betterment of student education," she continued. "Students, you are here to learn and prepare for life after your education. Studying, classwork, lessons, homework, and exams should be important to all of you. If you have repeated cases of truancy, constant bad grades, or repeated incidents of failing to turn in assignments, you will be met with punishment. This punishment, however, does not follow the four-strike system. There will be a different system in place to encourage you to do better. More information about this will be presented to you if you qualify for it."

Minerva continued discussing the usual rules but also implicating the four-strike system with them. This included truancy from curfew, and venturing into the Forbidden Forest, among other things.

"Before I continue with the final announcement," Minerva continued, "I have to say this. If you see something suspicious, please report it to the staff, Prefects, or Head Students. I believe if this was done, the Chamber of Secrets incident could have been concluded weeks ago. I know none of you want another repeat of this incident, or any other incidents or threats. If you report something and it turns out to be a good report, you will be rewarded.

"With that said, I have one final announcement. Starting now, there will be some improvements to the Quidditch system here at Hogwarts. Over the past couple of days I have been in contact with various broomstick companies around Europe. Within the next couple of weeks, I am happy to announce, that all four Quidditch teams will have brand new brooms to use for the Quidditch Matches!"

The Hall erupted in cheers and applause that lasted for nearly a minute. However, there were several amongst the Slytherins – most of the Quidditch team, for example – who disapproved, obviously realizing their advantage of great brooms would now be taken away.

"Before the end of this week," Minerva continued, after the Hall went quiet, "I will be meeting with the four team captains to discuss this news further. With that happy news, I believe we are finished. Think about what I have said, and make sure to understand the new rule system as you go to sleep this evening. Have a good evening everyone."

Minerva sat down, as most of the students stood.

"Aurors Moody, Shacklebolt, and others are in the Entrance Hall right now," Amelia said, "I have instructed them to collect not only Ginny and Ron Weasley, but their brothers as well. Harry Potter and Hermione Granger will also be collected."

"Very well," Minerva said, then sighed gravely, "Ginny Weasley. I cannot believe this! You're sure?"

"It is possible she was controlled from an outside source, Minerva," Amelia said.

"Neither Arthur or Molly Weasley are capable of doing this, Amelia!" Minerva said, "I know Molly has been under suspicion lately, but... no, she's not capable of this."

"We will get to the bottom of this, Minerva," Amelia said, "I assure you."

Minerva sighed again. "Okay. We'll speak with everyone in my office. I'm going to have to contact Arthur and Molly, however. They'll have to be here before anything happens."

"Of course," Amelia said, nodding.

Minerva cleared her throat and looked at the rest of the staff.

"Ladies and Gentlemen," Minerva said, "The human threat has apparently been discovered this evening. I cannot say anything else until we're sure of it. There will be another staff meeting tomorrow night to clear everything up. You're all excused. Remus, you're welcome to join Amelia and I, as was discussed earlier this evening."

Remus nodded. Minerva stood and led both Amelia and Remus around the table and out of the Great Hall. When they stepped into the Entrance Hall, they found Aurors Moody and Shacklebolt, Unspeakable Croaker, and a few other Aurors around them. Percy, Fred, George, Ron and Ginny Weasley were near them, as was Harry Potter and Hermione Granger. Also the Patil twins were there, to Minerva's surprise. Then Minerva realized exactly why they were there.

"Miss Patil, Padma," Minerva said, "I believe I know why you're here instead of heading to your Common Room, and I assume your sister is here for a similar reason. It will be taken care of tomorrow. Mr. Potter is busy elsewhere for the rest of the evening. Please join the rest of your dorm-mates this evening. You too, Parvati."

Padma frowned and looked in Harry's direction. Then she nodded and the twin sisters headed toward the Grand Staircase.

"What is going on, Headmistress?" Percy asked, "These Aurors prevented us from heading back to our Common Room. This particular Auror -" he motioned to Moody "- has not taken that weird eye – off my sister since he saw her! I demand to know what this is all about!"

"If you will all follow us to my office," Minerva said, "You'll all understand soon enough."

"Aurors, report," Amelia said.

"Aurors have been sent to the suspect's dormitory to search the belongings," Moody said, "It should have been done before the Feast, and it wasn't. If there is anything suspicious, it will be found."

"Suspect?" Percy asked, "Headmistress -"

"Enough!" Minerva snapped, "All will be explained soon. To my office!"

Percy, his siblings, and Harry and Hermione looked surprised at Minerva's snappish tone. But she made no expression of apology yet. There were questions that needed to be answered, and she was going to get those answers.

The youngest two Weasleys were somehow involved with some very dark subjects – the Chamber of Secrets, and Peter Pettigrew, who allegedly betrayed Harry's parents and killed a dozen innocent Muggles. Minerva was in a panic. How could two children so young - children from a familyknown to be Allied with the Light - be involved in all of this? And worse... it was two of her Lions!

This was not a great start to her tenure of Headmistress. She needed answers, and she needed them tonight!


And she'll get them... next chapter!

I almost had Draco, or Ron, insult Hermione as soon as her secret was revealed. But Draco isn't stupid enough to do so in front of everyone, especially moments after the enforced rules announcements. And Ron... was seated next to Percy. He's stupid, but... he's not that – er... I mean... Percy probably would have shut him up first.

Minerva revealing Harry as a Metamorph was also probably controversial. But it was better that she did it with him actually there, though he probably should have done it on his own terms. That will be brought up.

Next chapter: There will be answers... but they will only lead to more questions! And even after the meetings are done, and Minerva is about to go to bed... her surprises for the day are not over! Is that enough teasing? I think so. –evil laughter-

I know I alluded to the fact that this chapter might not be updated for a few days. But I already had... 1/3rd of it done, and the rest just flowed out once I concentrated on it. So I am publishing it now. The next chapter... well, it might take a few days. Maybe. It needs to be PERFECT.