A.N./Disclaimer: Most of the characters and the original plot belong to J.K. Rowling. I do not own them. Neither am I profiting from this nor do I plan to commercialize it. I am writing for fun.
A.N./Disclaimer: Majority of the part describing the dementor aboard Hogwarts Express and Dumbledore's speech at the Welcoming Feast has been taken from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as is with just a few minor changes. I have also borrowed the Sorting Hat's song from the first book.
A.N./Disclaimer: There's a song in this chapter by the famous band Queen. I don't own it. Neither am I profiting from this nor do I plan to commercialize it.
A.N.: Thank you for all the follows, favorites and reviews.
Chapter 10
September 1, 1993
Lily's Keep
Harry and the kids walked into the family dining room for their last breakfast at the mansion before leaving for Hogwarts. The kids were excited for a new school year. They were going to be learning quite a lot besides the normal school curriculum. However, when they saw the gloomy and concerned faces of the adults, the kids were a bit concerned as well. Sitting at the table, Susan asked, "What's going on? Why does everyone look so gloomy? We are only going to Hogwarts. We will be home for Christmas."
Amelia replied, "I was called in to the Ministry very early this morning. Peter Pettigrew has broken out of Azkaban. We believe it was late into last night and he might have had someone on the outside helping him. The cell he had been put in had anti-animagus wards to prevent him from escaping as a rat. One of the wardens was murdered. The only thing we don't understand at the moment is who broke him out. Whoever it was, only wanted to break Peter out and did not concern themselves with the other Death Eaters."
"I believe it could be to bring Riddle back. Or, someone had a bone to pick with the rat", replied Sirius.
"Whatever the case may be, the ministry has currently become the laughingstock. What has Cornelius decided to do about it?", asked Augusta.
"Cornelius has ordered to put aurors on guard at King's Cross. He has also stationed dementors around Hogwarts after Dumbledore agreed to it", replied Amelia. "The dementors are to remain outside the castle wards as guards. They believe Peter may try to break into Hogwarts to get to Harry. He has also issued 'Kiss on Sight' for Peter."
"Has he lost his mind?", questioned Sirius. The kids looked very puzzled and scared at the same time. In their classes with Remus, they had studied about dementors. These were filthy magical creatures that sucked out a person's happiness. A dementor's kiss would suck out the person's soul and render the husk soulless. "How can he put such filthy and dangerous creatures around Hogwarts?", asked Sirius.
Amelia replied, "It is not an ideal situation. However, Dumbledore and Fudge have promised to keep them in check and prevent them from coming near the castle or in contact with any of the kids."
"Whatever be the case, I am not happy with the solution. Not that I can do anything about it", said Sirius. "You kids don't go looking for trouble. Use your maps and if you feel something is off, report to Minerva and/or Moony. If Peter does go to Hogwarts, he will go in his rat form."
"Lady Hogwarts will warn me if he does", replied Harry. "She told me the first time. She will do it again, I am sure."
"Okay. If she does mention anything, let Remus and/or Minerva know. Send us a note as well", added Augusta.
"As you know, due to Moony's furry little problem", said Sirius, "you'll have a substitute professor for the days around full moon. We are sure that you kids won't tell anyone anything. However, knowing Dumbledore, we are sure that Snivellus will be the one substituting. Knowing Snivellus, he will try to downplay and humiliate Moony. We don't want you kids to be drawn into his stupid mind games. Just stay calm and ignore him. Of course, you can always prank him. Make sure your occlumency shields are top notch to prevent the slimy git from snooping your thoughts."
The kids nodded their heads in acceptance. Sirius continued, "We will be attending all of Harry's quidditch matches. Of course, we will be seeing you on weekends as well for your extra classes. Have fun during your tips at Hogsmeade."
"Yes, but not too much fun", added a stern Augusta.
"Besides, if you kids want us to join you for the trips, let us know. We will be there", said Richard.
"Don't you kids forget to call us every day using the mirrors", added Xeno.
"Yes, call us every day. You can write to us too if there's something you're shy to talk about on the mirrors", said Amelia.
The group then quickly finished their breakfast and departed for King's Cross. Arriving at King's Cross, they found Moony at the platform. He said, "Good morning everyone. Surprised to see me here?"
"Moony, what in the name of Merlin are you doing here?", asked Sirius.
"Dumbledore thought it would be best to have a teacher on board the Hogwarts Express. I thought who better than the new DADA professor?", replied Remus. "Seriously though, because of the whole Peter fiasco, Dumbledore thought it better to have a teacher on board. I will be in the teacher's compartment at the front."
"You know, sometimes the old goat does things you can appreciate him for", said Sirius. "For all his misgivings, sometimes he does the right thing." The adults and the kids laughed at Sirius' blatantly honest statement. The group was standing at the platform and seemed deep in conversation when the Weasleys joined them.
After initial greetings, Arthur asked for a private conversation with Sirius and Harry, who obliged. Walking to a side, Arthur put up privacy charms and said, "Lord Black –"
"Please call me Sirius, Mr. Weasley", cut off Sirius.
"Only if you call me Arthur", replied Mr. Weasley. Sirius nodded and Arthur continued, "Sirius, Harry, I am sure you have already heard of Peter. I just wanted to see how you were doing and also remind Harry not to go looking for Peter."
"That's nice of you, Arthur", replied Sirius. "We are not happy that the traitor escaped but it is what it is. We did discuss Peter in the morning before we arrived here. Harry has told me he would not go looking for Peter, and if he feels something is wrong, he will approach the relevant authorities."
"Oh, that's good. I am happy Harry has you now, Sirius", Arthur said.
"Thank you, Arthur. And thank you for looking after my son", replied Sirius, offering his right hand for a handshake. The three of them rejoined the group. Hugs and goodbyes were exchanged, and the kids boarded the train. Harry, Hermione, Neville, Luna and Susan were joined by Ron and Ginny in one of the compartments in the last coach of the train.
As the train left the station, the group got to talking. Ron asked, "So mate, how was your summer with Lord Black? What did you do?"
"It was the best summer ever, Ron", replied Harry. "Hermione, Neville, Susan and Luna were also staying with us. We had a really great summer."
"Why did they stayed with you?", asked Ron.
"Well, Neville's, Susan's, Luna's and my families have been friends for generations", said Harry. "Hermione is a really good friend of ours. It totally made sense."
"How come you didn't invite me when you invited Hermione, mate?", asked Ron.
"Oh, come of it, Ron. You already had your plans to go with your family", replied an exasperated Harry.
"Still, you should have at least invited me", grumbled Ron.
Ginny stepped in and said, "It's okay, Ron. I am sure if we were here Harry would have invited us, wouldn't you Harry?" She fluttered her eyelashes at Harry, trying to appear cute. Hermione, Luna and Susan had a look of disdain on their faces. Neville was staring at the redhead second-year witch with bemusement.
Harry replied, "Sure." He didn't really see any positive outcome with the discussion and thus kept quiet.
Ginny then asked, "So Luna, what did you do with a bunch of third-years around you? Didn't you get bored alone?"
It was Susan who replied, "Luna isn't a second-year, she is a third-year like us. She took her advancement tests to skip her second year."
"What!", exclaimed Ginny. "You can do that? How come I didn't know of this? I wanted to be in third year as well. I could then go to Hogsmeade with you all." Ginny blushed at this statement and looked at Harry. Hermione who had been watching Ginny very closely, shifted a bit closer to Harry.
Luna replied, "Well, I finished as the top student in our year. When I was leaving for the summer holidays, Professor Flitwick had summoned me for a discussion with Professor McGonagall. They said that my academic standing had been excellent, and I could apply for the advancement tests. If I pass the advancement tests with an EE or higher, I can skip the second year and join the third year. Neville, Susan, Hermione and Harry agreed to help me prepare and revise for the tests which took place at Hogwarts in the week of August 16th. I passed them all with the required grades."
Ginny asked, "So, you could only take an advancement test because you were offered the opportunity by Flitwick and McGonagall? Can I not take one if I feel I can clear it?"
"I think", replied Hermione, "Luna took the tests because she was offered the opportunity. I think you can take one if you feel you can clear it, but you'd still need the clearance from Professor McGonagall as the Head of Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress."
"Maybe I will. It would be awesome to join you guys in fourth year", said Ginny. I can have classes with my Harry Potter, thought Ginny and blushed. Hermione, Luna and Susan had the same scowls again at Ginny's blush.
Ron, though, had another issue with the young Potter. "Mate, I can't believe you spent the summer studying. You should have flown in the summer or gone swimming. Who studies during the holidays? That's mental."
"Ron", replied Harry. "Neither of us spent the entire summer studying. We had a schedule that Hermione had prepared. Thanks to her, we actually enjoyed our summer to the fullest."
"Whatever", replied Ron. "I had the best summer.." and on and on he went about the fantastic summer the Weasleys had had in Egypt.
After around half an hour, the door of their compartment slid open. On the other side stood the blonde ferret, Draco Malfoy, flanked by his two pet baboons. "Lookie lookie", said the blonde. "Who have we got here? It's Potty and his band of degenerates. I don't know why they still let lowly scums like you attend Hogwarts."
Ron replied, "Shut it, Malfoy."
"Oh, poor weasel, did I hurt your ego?", retorted Malfoy. Crabbe and Goyle sniggered at either side of Malfoy.
Harry said, "Cousin Malfoy, how kind of you to grace us with your presence. Would you like to have a seat?"
"Shut it, Potty. I am no cousin of yours. Don't you ever call me that again", replied Malfoy.
"Oh?", said Harry with a confused expression. "Not to steal your line, Heir Malfoy, but my father will hear about this." Malfoy had a puzzled expression as the kids inside the compartment laughed at Harry's statement. Harry continued, "I will make sure my father knows that you don't wish to be my cousin. He can perhaps come up with a solution to fulfill your wishes. Hermione, what do you think? What options does my father have?"
"He has two options, Harry", replied Hermione. "Either he disowns you or he disowns Lady Malfoy. Oops, I meant Mrs. Malfoy."
"Why you, filthy mud–", was all Malfoy could say before he was hit with a silencing spell by Harry.
Harry said, "Don't you dare finish the sentence, Heir Malfoy. Let me remind you of something you seem to have forgotten. First and foremost, I don't take insults against my friends lightly. Secondly, if you have so much of a problem being my cousin, I can always ask my father, Lord Black, to disown Mrs. Malfoy. Have you ever wondered why your father isn't called Lord Malfoy, or why your mother isn't called Lady Malfoy but Mrs. Malfoy? Have you ever been told of your family history? Have you even been told why your family had to move to Britain all those years ago? Do you at least know where your family got the money from? The money that your dear Death Eater father likes to throw around. Do you know what will happen to your family if Mrs. Malfoy is disowned by House of Black? Let me explain it to you in terms you will easily understand.
"The House of Malfoy became a noble house when your father was born. Prior to your father's birth, the House of Malfoy was a minor house. Only the head of a most noble or higher house can be called a Lord or Lady. The House of Malfoy needs to be in Britain for the next nine generations after you to achieve that status in Britain. Now, let's see. You called us lowly scums, didn't you? Each one in this compartment belongs to a house much ancient and nobler than yours. And that includes Hermione. She comes from a revered ancient house. A status that the Malfoys may reach after thirty or so generations from hereon.
"Your family line wasn't even blessed with magic thirty generations ago, nor did your family achieve any sort of nobility in France, the country your family hails from. In fact, your family was exiled from France because your ancestors spouted the filth that is purity of blood. Your ancestor then moved to Britain and your family has been here since. However, it seems to me that your family history hasn't taught you anything.
"Prior to your parents' marriage, the House of Malfoy wasn't as rich as it is now. The marriage contract involving Mr. and Mrs. Malfoy is what brought the vast gold to the Malfoys. The gold came from House of Black. If Mrs. Malfoy was to be disowned by the House of Black, all of its resources will be returned as well, including the gold. What do you think will happen if the House of Malfoy loses a good chunk of gold? Mr. Malfoy will lose his influence on others. I am quite sure Mr. Malfoy will be very mad at you if such a thing were to happen because of your wish to not be my cousin which resulted in your mother getting disowned, don't you think?
"Now, I'm going to undo the silencing charm. You would do yourself a favor by leaving us in peace. Nod your head if you understand what I mean", finished Harry. The blonde wizard sneered and nodded his head. Harry undid the silencing charm and said, "Next time you come to us with anything to say, be sure it isn't anything stupid and baseless. Now, why don't you take your two baboons and scamper? We got better things to do." Before Malfoy could say anything, Hermione shut the door and locked it.
Everyone in the compartment broke into laughter. Hermione said, "Harry, even though Malfoy deserved it, you should have let me handle it. You do know that I can handle him, don't you?"
Ron added, "Bloody hell, that was brilliant mate. How do you know all this?"
"I read about my family history and about the families linked to mine through marriages", replied Harry.
"What was that about Hermione being from a revered ancient house? I thought she was a first-generation muggle-born witch. That's what she told us", said Ginny.
"I am a mundane-born witch, and I am the first witch in three generations of my family", replied Hermione. "This summer I received a letter from Gringotts asking me to appear for an inheritance test. It turns out both my parents have magical ancestors. My father is a descendant of House of Dagworth-Granger and my mother is from House of Draven. I am the only living magical descendant of both the houses."
"How come you never told me this before?", asked Ron with a slight edge to his voice. "Some friend you are."
"Weren't you listening, Ron?", retorted Hermione. "I came to know about this during the summer. I didn't tell you because I didn't have the opportunity to. Besides, why does it matter anyway? We are friends already. I didn't think it would matter if I was a first-generation witch or a descendant of an ancient house."
"Whatever", exclaimed Ron and went back to stuffing his face with food. Ginny had an irritated scowl on her face. Harry looked at Hermione and shrugged his shoulders. They went back to talking about their summer. It had now begun to rain.
The rain thickened as the train sped yet further north; the windows were now a solid, shimmering grey, which gradually darkened until lanterns flickered into life all along the corridors and over the luggage racks. The train rattled, the rain hammered, the wind roared, and the kids were talking at loud voices, just to remain audible.
"We must be nearly there", said Ron, leaning forward to look past Neville at the window which had now gotten completely black. Ron had hardly finished his statement when the train began to slow down. "Brilliant", grumbled Ron and walked towards the window. "I am bloody starving, and I can't wait to get to the feast."
"We can't be there yet", replied Hermione, checking her watch.
"Why are we stopping then?", asked Neville.
The train was getting slower and slower. As the noise of the pistons fell away, the wind and rain sounded louder than ever against the windows. Harry, who was nearest the door, got up to look into the corridor. All along the carriage, heads were sticking curiously out of their compartments. The train came to a stop with a jolt and distant thuds and bangs told them that luggage had fallen out of the racks. Then, without warning, all the lamps went out and they were plunged into total darkness.
"What's going on?", said Ron's voice from behind Harry.
"Ouch!", gasped Hermione. "Ron, that was my foot!"
Harry felt his way back to his seat.
Susan asked, "Do you think we've broken down?"
"I dunno", replied Neville. There was a squeaking sound, and Harry saw the dim black outline of Neville, wiping a patch clean on the window and peering out. "There's something moving out there," Neville said. "I think people are coming aboard."
Before anybody else could say anything, the door slid slowly open. Standing in the doorway was a cloaked figure that towered to the ceiling. Its face was completely hidden beneath its hood. Harry's eyes darted downwards, and what he saw made his stomach contract. There was a hand protruding from the cloak, and it was glistening, greyish, slimy-looking and scabbed, like something dead that had decayed in water. It was visible only for a split second. As though the creature beneath the cloak sensed Harry's gaze, the hand was suddenly withdrawn into the folds of the black material.
"Dementors", whispered Harry. However, before the kids in the compartment could react, the dementor drew a long, slow, rattling breath, as though it was trying to suck something more than air from its surroundings. An intense cold swept over them all. Harry felt his own breath catch in his chest. The cold went deeper than his skin. It was inside his chest, it was inside his very heart. Harry's eyes rolled up into his head. He couldn't see. He was drowning in cold. There was a rushing in his ears as though of water. He was being dragged downwards, the roaring growing louder. And then, from far away, he heard screaming, terrible, terrified, pleading screams. Screams of his mother. Screams he could only identify because of his eidetic memory and proficiency in occlumency. He wanted to help her, he tried to move his arms, but couldn't, a thick white fog was swirling around him, inside him –
"Harry! Harry! Are you alright?", came Hermione's voice, as if she was faraway. Someone was slowly slapping his face.
"W-what?" Harry opened his eyes. There were lanterns above him, and the floor was shaking – the Hogwarts Express was moving again, and the lights had come back on. He seemed to have slid out of his seat onto the floor. Hermione was kneeling next to him, and above them he could see Neville and Moony watching. Harry felt very sick; when he put up his hand to push his glasses back on, he felt cold sweat on his face. Neville and Hermione helped him back onto the seat.
"Are you alright, Harry?", asked a very worried Hermione. Harry nodded his head and looked towards the door. The dementor had vanished. Harry looked around the compartment. Everyone looked pale, especially Susan, Hermione and Luna, who were very close to tears. Moony had a bar of chocolate in his hand that he broke into pieces and handed a piece to each of them in the compartment.
Lupin said, "Eat it, you'll feel better."
As the kids started on their chocolate, Ron asked, "Ehm, what was that thing?"
"A Dementor", said Lupin. "One of the dementors from Azkaban." Rowena flashed into the compartment at that exact moment and started to serenade. The mood in the compartment seemed to change for the better instantly. Lupin continued, "Finish up the chocolate. I am going to have a word with the driver."
"I thought you were having a fit or something", said Ron, who still looked a bit scared. "You went sort of rigid and fell out of your seat and started twitching –"
"It was then that Professor Lupin's patronus drove the dementor away", replied Hermione.
"It was horrible", said Neville, in a higher voice than usual. "Did you feel how cold it went when it came in?"
"I felt weird", said Susan, shifting her shoulders uncomfortably. "Like I'd never be cheerful again." Luna, who was huddled in her corner looking nearly as bad as Harry felt, gave a small sob; Hermione went over and put a comforting arm around her. Harry didn't understand. He felt weak and shivery, as though he was recovering from a bad bout of flu; he also felt the beginnings of shame. Why had he gone to pieces like that, when no one else had?
Remus came back to check in on the kids. They all seemed a bit better than before. Of course, Rowena's serenade had calmed then down. Remus said, "We'll be at Hogwarts in ten minutes." He left the kids and went back to the teacher's compartment. They didn't talk much during the remainder of the journey. At long last, the train stopped at Hogsmeade station, and there was a great scramble to get out; owls hooted, cats mewed, and Neville's pet toad croaked loudly from under his hat. It was freezing on the tiny platform; rain was driving down in icy sheets.
As Harry and his friends made their way into the castle, Minerva called out to Harry. "Mr. Potter! Miss Granger! Please follow me to my office. Don't worry, you're not in any trouble." The last part was said to soothe the nerves of the Weasleys walking with the group. Harry and the remaining four knew that their Auntie Min probably wanted to check-in on her pseudo-grandson. Harry and Hermione followed Minerva to her office. Minerva asked, "Harry, are you alright? Remus had sent me a note describing what happened on the train."
"I am fine now, Auntie Min", replied Harry. "Moony gave us chocolates and Rowena appeared to help with her song."
Minerva nodded her head and said, "Okay, however, Poppy is on her way here to make sure you're alright. As soon as she clears you, you can return to the Great Hall. The sorting won't begin for the next twenty minutes at least." Harry nodded his head and waited. After five minutes, Poppy entered the office.
She said, "Mr. Potter, though you always find unique ways to land up in my care, I don't believe today's reason to be weird at all. Dementors are foul creatures, and they have no business being around a school filled with children." She carried on with her medical scans and said, "Everything seems to be fine with you, Mr. Potter. You just happen to be a bit weak, but you'll be fine after a good meal and a good night's sleep. Please visit me at the hospital wing tomorrow morning for another scan."
Harry nodded his head and said, "Thank you, Madam Pomfrey." The mediwitch nodded her head and left.
Minerva said, "Call Sirius and inform him that you're fine." Harry promptly did so. Sirius had been mad that his son had to experience the filth of exposure to a dementor. He told Harry that he would be having a word with Cornelius if the incident repeats or if the dementor comes close to any kid within the wards of Hogwarts. Harry and Hermione tried to calm him down. They promised to call him the following day and hung up. They thanked Minerva and left her office for the Great Hall. They joined Neville and Ron at the Gryffindor table.
Ten minutes after they came in, the doors of the Great Hall swung open again. Minerva walked into the hall, leading the new first-years. Adrian, the Sorting Hat, started off with his song:
Oh, you may not think I'm pretty,
But don't judge on what you see,
I'll eat myself if you can find
A smarter hat than me.
You can keep your bowlers black,
Your top hats sleek and tall,
For I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat
And I can cap them all.
There's nothing hidden in your head
The Sorting Hat can't see,
So try me on and I will tell you
Where you ought to be.
You might belong in Gryffindor,
Where dwell the brave at heart,
Their daring, nerve and chivalry
Set Gryffindors apart;
You might belong in Hufflepuff,
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true
And unafraid of toil;
Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,
If you've a ready mind,
Where those of wit and learning,
Will always find their kind;
Or perhaps in Slytherin
You'll make your real friends,
Those cunning folks use any means
To achieve their ends.
So put me on! Don't be afraid!
And don't get in a flap!
You're in safe hands (though I have none)
For I'm a Thinking Cap!*
After Adrian had finished his song, Minerva called the students one by one for their sorting. After the sorting was over, Dumbledore rose from his chair and said, "Welcome to another school year. I have a couple of announcements; however, they can wait till we have filled ourselves with tonight's feast. Please enjoy." He clapped his hands and plates of food appeared on each house table.
After everyone had finished eating, the plates disappeared from the tables. Dumbledore walked up to his lectern and said, "Welcome to another year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. My first announcement is very serious. As you will all be aware after their search of the Hogwarts Express, our school is presently playing host to some of the Dementors of Azkaban, who are here on Ministry of Magic business.
"They are stationed at every entrance to the grounds and while they are with us, I must make it plain that nobody is to leave school without permission. Dementors are not to be fooled by tricks or disguises – or even Invisibility Cloaks." Hermione glanced at Harry and squeezed his hand. "It is not in the nature of a Dementor to understand pleading or excuses. I therefore warn each and every one of you to give them no reason to harm you. I look to the Prefects, and our new Head Boy and Girl, to make sure that no student runs afoul of the Dementors."
Perfect Percy, the new Head Boy, was sitting a few seats away from Harry. You could see the redhead puffing his chest out, trying to appear as an important and impressive individual. Dumbledore paused and looked around the hall. He continued, "On a happier note, I am pleased to welcome two new teachers to our ranks this year. Firstly, Professor Lupin, who has agreed to fill up the post of Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher."
Harry and his friends led the round of applause for the newly appointed DADA teacher. Harry observed that while the majority of the school was applauding his honorary uncle's appointment, Severus 'Snivellus' Snape looked quite displeased. He pointed the same out to Hermione, and they both were smiling at Snape's displeasure.
"As to our second appointment", continued Dumbledore, "Professor Kettleburn, who was our Care of Magical Creatures teacher, retired at the end of last year in order to enjoy more time with his remaining limbs. I am delighted to say that his place will be filled in by our beloved Rubeus Hagrid, who has agreed to take on this job in addition to his duties as the gamekeeper."
Harry and his friends stared at each other. They had been stunned by the appointment. More so in case of Harry and Hermione, as none of the members of their extended family had told them of the appointment.
Ron said, "We should have known. Who else would send us a monstrous biting book!"
Dumbledore continued, "Last piece of announcement. The Hogwarts Board of Governors, in their attempt to ease your lives at school, had made provisions for each of you to receive a copy of the Hogwarts charter and the Hogwarts Board of Governors charter. I hope you've gone through the rules and rights mentioned in the charter. In order to make it easy for you, the students, to reach out the Board, the Board has established a protocol. All of your complaints and suggestions can be filed with Professor McGonagall, who will in turn, relay them to the Board. I hope this makes your lives easier at Hogwarts. Now, that's all from –"
The Hogwarts headmaster stopped midsentence as all the lights and candles were blown out, and the hall had gone completely dark.
There was a sudden flash and only Dumbledore and Snape had lights thrown on them. It was like a stage play and the light was the spotlight. Snape got off his seat and walked to Dumbledore.
He knelt in front of Dumbledore and said, "Headmaster, with all these rules in place, I think we will only have more dunderheads coming through Hogwarts. You don't understand, we need to discipline them. Especially the ones who are not in Slytherin."
"Now, now, Severus", replied Dumbledore. "You can't be that harsh with everyone. They will call for your expulsion."
"Headmaster", said Snape, "all I need you to do is let me handle the ones we've already discussed. You know, the usuals. Like the brat I hate."
"Very well, Severus", replied Dumbledore. "Him and his friends alone. Nobody else."
Snape replied with an evil smirk, "That's plenty, Headmaster. I plan on looking into their minds as well." He got up and stood in front of the lectern. He spread his arms out and started to sing,
Tonight, I'm gonna have myself a real good time
I feel alive
And the world I'll turn it inside out, yeah
I'm floating around in ecstasy
So, (don't stop me now)
(Don't stop me)
'Cause I'm having a good time, having a good time**
As Severus started the next verse, all the other teachers started to dance in the background. Snape had a devilish smirk every time he said 'Don't stop me', and each time he had an evil smirk, Minerva would reprimand him. After finishing the song, Severus knelt down in front of Albus and said, "Thank you for this power, headmaster." The entire student body was finding it hard to keep themselves from laughing.
Minerva rose from her seat and said, "Professor Snape, the Board of Governors would like to have a word with you about your behavior. Just because the students don't know occlumency, doesn't mean you can read their minds. It is illegal."
Professor Flitwick stood on his chair and said, "And that, students, is why you need to practice occlumency. It helps you in recall as well. You can order books on occlumency via owl from My Wish Mag. They don't charge you for delivery."
Professor Sprout said from her seat, "May be that is why I find students having headaches after a certain class. I always thought it was due to the stench of grease."
Professor Lupin added, "While we are at it, occlumency also helps in protecting your secrets. Secrets about your pranks, post-curfew adventures, detours to broom cupboards.."
Professor Sinistra, the astronomy teacher said, "Or your romantic getaways at the Astronomy tower."
Hagrid added, "Or a certain exotic magical creature, like Fluffy, the Cerebrus."
Professor Vector finished, "Occlumency will help you protect them from nosy people."
Professor Dumbledore said, "Now, was there anything else we had to say? Oh, yes. We intended to start this year with a bang, and we did."
All the teachers chorused, "We solemnly swear we are up to no good, but we assure you, we will make this year eventful for you."
Everything went dark again. The ceiling now had a message, that appeared one line at a time:
Welcome to a new year at Hogwarts
We have an announcement
An announcement that you will all love
An announcement so unique
So unique that we had to do it
Well, to be honest
Since nobody else wanted to do it
We thought we should do it
We take great pride and honor
As we declare that
The Prank Wars is officially a go
Let's laugh a little more
Have fun a little more
Enjoy our school a little more
Prank, but don't bully
Don't bully like a greasy git
A certain greasy git we all know
The best pranksters would be rewarded
Rewarded with gifts and opportunities
And above all
Recognition like the Marauders
The best pranksters ever
To have graced Hogwarts
With their presence
We will be watching
With hope that someone
Or a certain pair
Or a group
Can better us.
On a side note,
Write to My Wish Mag.
We are watching, Hogwarts
WE
ARE
WATCHING
YOU
(NOT IN A CREEPY MANNER LIKE THE GREASY GIT)
The ceiling went back to its normal state and lights were restored in the hall. The students were clapping their hands and cheering. The cheering and laughter grew louder when everybody's hair color had changed to match their house's color.
The teachers looked a bit confused to find themselves in different positions. Professor Snape was still on his knees in front of Dumbledore. Flitwick was still on his chair. Minerva, Pomona, Sinistra, Remus and Hagrid were standing at their assigned places on the staff table.
There was another bang, and firecrackers went off behind the staff table. A huge banner now appeared on the wall behind the staff table. The banner read: WE PRANKED THE ENTIRE SCHOOL, INCLUDING TEACHERS, ON THE FIRST NIGHT OF THE YEAR.
The applauds grew louder. Dumbledore calmed the applauds and said, "That was a really good and humorous piece of magic, I am sure. Now though, I request to whoever did it, please take down the banner." There was no movement, and the banner was still there. Dumbledore drew his wand and tried to remove the banner by a banishing spell.
Instead of the disappearance of the said banner, there was another bang and a new banner right below the one already in place. WHY THE HURRY? THIS IS A CHALLENGE TO EVERYONE. REMOVE OR REPLACE OUR BANNERS IN TWENTY-FOUR HOURS, WE DARE YOU.
There was another huge round of cheers and applauses. Dumbledore, though he didn't like it, smiled as well along with the other teachers but Snape. Snape was the only human inside the Great Hall who wasn't smiling. Of course, that was because he had been in the most embarrassing position out of the teachers. He sneered, "100 points from whoever was behind the act." Everyone turned to the points jar but nothing happened. Snape repeated his statement, and nothing happened.
Dumbledore, in his attempt to prevent any further embarrassment for his dear potions master, said, "Okay, that will be all for tonight. Chop, chop, off you go to your dorms. Have a good night."
As the students left their seats, their hair went back to their normal color. Snape shouted, "Potter! Weasley Twins! Stay back." Harry reassured his friends that he didn't know why he was being asked to stay back even though he knew. They had pulled off a masterful prank and declared Prank Wars. Harry's friends, that is, his real friends who had stayed with him over the summer were in the prank as well. They weren't too much worried about Harry as they knew he would be fine, and that Snape did not have any evidence to pin it on him. After all the students had left, only Harry and the Weasley twins remained with the teachers.
Harry asked, "What is it, Professor Snape?"
"Don't you act like you don't know", replied Snape. "I know either of you had something to do with it. I don't know how you did it, but I know it's got be to one of you." The Weasley twins were admiring the banner when Snape said, "Which of you dunderheads was it?"
Fred said, "We are sorry to disappoint you, Professor Snape-"
George added, "but it wasn't us. We hate to admit it-"
Fred continued, "but it wasn't us."
George added, "This was so cool that-"
They finished together, "we might just have become their fans."
Snape performed a silent legilimency on them to confirm the truth in their statement. He turned to Harry and said, "It has got to be you, Potter."
"That was an advanced level of magic", said Flitwick. "Certainly beyond a third-year's capability." It was true. The spells, runes and potions they had used to pull off the prank required a lot of prep work that they had done in their free time in the trunk. The kids along with the help of house-elves were able to pull it off.
Harry, who had now been given the perfect alibi by Professor Flitwick, said, "Professor Snape, how can I, a good for nothing, arrogant celebrity, who also happens to be a dunderhead and useless brat, pull off a prank that requires an advanced level of magic? I barely manage to perform the spells required by us for our coursework."
Whatever it was that Snape and perhaps, Dumbledore, were expecting, wasn't this. Harry, instead of arguing or raising his voice, had replied in a sarcastic manner. Snape twitched his lips and said, "Ah, I see. In that case, you wouldn't mind submitting your wand for inspection, would you?"
Harry removed his snakewood wand and was about to hand it to Minerva for inspection. Snape extended his hand and snatched the wand for inspection. He looked into Harry's eyes and performed legilimency silently. Harry immediately stroked his head and looked away from Snape. He said, "I got a sudden headache as Professor Snape looked into my eyes."
Dumbledore's eyes widened with realization. He asked, "What do you mean, Harry?"
"Headmaster Dumbledore", replied Harry, "I believe I requested you not to address me by my first name at the end of last term."
Before Dumbledore could reply, Snape said with his usual sneer, "Why, you little brat? Headmaster can call you whatever he likes."
Harry turned and looked at Snape. He said, "Oh, can he? I might have missed something because I clearly remember it being mentioned in the Hogwarts charter that each and every student must be addressed by their last name with appropriate prefix by every member of the staff, including the Headmaster, unless and until familiarity is granted by the said student. And while we are at it, Professor Snape, you are currently in illegal possession of my wand. An inspection of a student and his belongings can only be carried by the student's head of house. Only after an initial inspection has been carried out can the other heads of houses take part in the inspection, that is, if the majority of the heads of houses aren't satisfied by the outcome of the initial inspection."
Harry turned to Dumbledore and asked, "Headmaster, if I performed legilimency on you, would you get a headache?"
Dumbledore was at a loss of words. He was trying to formulate a reply without throwing Severus under the bus. Dumbledore replied, "I am quite sure Professor Snape didn't perform any legilimency on you, Mr. Potter. You headache could be .."
Harry cut him off and asked McGonagall, "Professor McGonagall, would you get a headache if I performed legilimency on you?"
Minerva replied, "Yes, extended or powerful legilimency probe will result in a headache."
"I see", replied Harry. "Am I right in assuming that it is illegal to perform legilimency on a minor, let alone by a teacher on a student?"
"Yes", said Minerva. "Legilimency without permission on a minor itself is a punishable crime. The culprit is sentenced to Azkaban for a year. However, if a teacher performs on a student, a student may push for charges. This will result it in a minimum of 5 years in Azkaban. If there have been multiple attempts, the punishment is ten years to life imprisonment in Azkaban."
"I see", replied Harry. The temperature plummeted as he turned to Snape and said icy cold voice, "Professor Snape, consider this the only warning before I write to the Board of Governors, the Head of DMLE and the Minister about your illegal legilimency probes."
Harry then turned to Dumbledore, who looked a bit terrified of Harry's sudden change in demeanor. Throughout his extraordinarily eventful life, Dumbledore had only seen two other wizards who terrified him. He had dueled Grindelwald, the most powerful and terrifying dark wizard in the 1940s and he had also battled Tom Riddle but neither of these terrified him like the two generations of Potters before Harry. There was something about the three generations of Potter men he had interacted with that sent shivers down his spine.
He quite clearly remembered when Charlus had gifted him the phoenix egg from which Fawkes was born. After handing him the egg, Charlus had asked him for the Elder Wand as it belonged to the Peverell family. In his greed for the Deathly Hallows, he had kept the Elder Wand with a simple statement that he had won the wand's allegiance. Charlus' response had shaken him to his core. Charlus, his eyes glowing with power and magic, had replied in a bottomless, cold voice, 'Ah, I see. You're one of those then. I thought you were different but perhaps, you're just better in comparison to the rest. But still greedy for power, looking for the infamous Deathly Hallows. You can keep the wand, but know this, Mother Magic is watching. Put a foot wrong or cause imbalance to her creation, she will come for you, and she will come when you least expect it.' After having finished his speech, Charlus had apparated out of his house, which had anti-apparition wards. Dumbledore, for the first time in his life, had been scared.
Ever since then, he had been wary of Charlus Potter and his wrath. Some years later, when James Potter was just fresh out of school, he had seen James' eyes glow during a battle against Death Eaters. One of them had managed to land a hit on Lily and that was all it took for James to unleash hell on those death eaters. Dumbledore had known that James had begun his training to become an archmagus like Charlus and generations of Potters before him. However, seeing it in person made him feel terrified and thankful at the same time. He was terrified of the power that James wielded and he was thankful that James hadn't been a Death Eater. James later had admitted that he was still training and that he couldn't get his magic swirling like that at will, something he should have been able to do soon if not for the fateful Halloween night a year later. The fact that James wasn't completely trained to be an archmagus was one of the reasons why Riddle could best him. However, Dumbledore had seen enough in his fight against the Death Eaters to be wary of James' potential. Though he didn't want to get on the worse side of the Potters, he had to do it for the Greater Good. After all, it wasn't fair that the Potters were so richly blessed by Lady Magic.
In front of him was the third generation of Potter he had come to know in his lifetime. He saw Harry, who had the same glowing eyes as his father and his grandfather, the only difference being they were green. However, what terrified him more was that Harry seemed to move into this powerful persona as seamlessly as Charlus in his later years. His voice seemed to have the same icy edge as Charlus' that seem to send shivers down the spine. What in the name of Morgana happened to the shy and nervous little Potter brat in the summer?, thought Dumbledore. Where is this magically powerful persona coming from? Could it be that all his binds have been broken? Did Riddle take over him? No, it can't be. If Riddle had taken over him, the magical world would be in a mayhem by now. What are you hiding, Harry?
Harry, who was now looking at Dumbledore, said in the same icy voice, "The same goes for you too, Headmaster Dumbledore. I was told a few things this summer about a certain arrangement regarding a certain someone. I am quite sure you wouldn't want your name being dragged through the dirt because if I write to the said authorities, what do you think people will think of you? That despite you being the Chief Warlock and the Headmaster, a crime occurred inside the school, right under your nose, and you did nothing about it. And because you did nothing about it, I had to write to these people. I know you're wise enough to know what the outcome of the entire fiasco will be."
Harry's eyes went back to their normal demeanor as he continued in his normal voice, "Professor Snape, I think you have something of mine." Snape returned Harry his wand with a bitter look on his face. Harry turned to Minerva and handed his wand for inspection. "Professor McGonagall, I would like to submit my wand for inspection. I don't want to give Professor Snape a reason to attack you or Gryffindor."
Minerva nodded her head and checked the wand for past spells. The only spells that had been cast were the drying and heating charms. Minerva said, "The only spells cast by Mr. Potter are drying and heating spells. Does anyone have any objections?" Flitwick and Sprout denied of any objections, which meant Snape's decision didn't really have an impact. Minerva returned the wand to Harry and said, "You are clear, Mr. Potter. I apologize for Professor Snape's roguish behavior."
Harry accepted his wand and thanked the Transfiguration teacher. Dumbledore, who had now gathered himself, added, "I apologize as well, Mr. Potter and Messrs. Weasley. I will look for the actual pranksters. I also apologize for Professor Snape's behavior. He has been having a bad day and I assure you he will be back to his best soon. As for your complaints, Mr. Potter, I will have a discussion with Professor Snape. I am sure Professor Snape never meant to do anything illegal."
Harry couldn't believe the old manipulative goat. Was he even listening to his own words? Harry replied in a flat tone, "Be that as it may, Headmaster, performing legilimency is illegal, which is what he did. If he repeats, I will inform the concerned authorities." Harry stepped closer to Snape and whispered under his breath so that only Snape could hear, "And that means you will go to Azkaban, just like you should have before." Snape shuddered at the mention of Azkaban. Harry put his wand away and turned to McGonagall. He asked, "Professor, is there anything else or can we return to our dormitories?"
Minerva looked around to see that none of the professors had anything to say. She replied, "You may return to the Gryffindor Tower. And Mr. Potter, please keep an eye on Messrs. Weasley. I don't want them terrorizing the school to outdo the prank we just witnessed." Harry nodded and left the Great Hall with the twins.
As soon as they left the Great Hall, Fred said, "Harry, you cheeky little bastard."
George added, "Ickle Harrykins has grown up, Fred."
"Right you are Goergie."
"It was only yesterday"
"He was so little"
"Always nervous"
"Only battling trolls"
"And basilisks too"
"Now not only did he"
"Pull a prank on the entire school"
"Including the dungeon bat and the old goat"
"For which I am sure he had help"
"Probably a group of pranksters"
"He then rips the dungeon bat a new one"
"And absolutely demolishes him"
"While he was at it, he sticks one to Dumbledore as well"
"All this without breaking a sweat"
"As cool as a cucumber"
"Merlin's pants", said both together, "we are impressed. Teach us, O great heir to the land of all that is mischief."
Harry laughed at the twins' byplay and replied, "How did you know it was me? Was it the message that the teachers said together? And please, reply one at a time without the ping-pong byplay."
Fred replied, "We were thoroughly impressed and enjoying the prank. We had this question in our head that who could have pulled it off. We had a few suspicions, but that Marauders' phrase confirmed our suspicion that it might have been you. So, how did you do it Harry?"
Harry said, "A prankster never reveals his secrets."
"Oh?", said George, "Are we at least right in assuming that it was a group of pranksters?"
"Maybe", replied Harry. "We expect full blown Prank Wars, dear jesters. I am told that our dear Padfoot of Mischief Land is going to gift something from the Marauders Inc. to the best group of pranksters."
"You're on, Ickle Harrykins", replied Fred.
"We the harbinger of chaos", added George.
"Will unleash a hell of laughter"
"And take the crown"
"of the best pranksters", finished both together.
Harry chuckled, "Very well. You already have a challenge to beat. Just make sure to not let anyone know the identity of the prankster behind the prank tonight, not even Lee Jordan." The twins had a puzzled expression, to which Harry replied, " You won't say anyone anything about me being the prankster, right?" The twins nodded. Harry added, "Alriht then. The banners. You've got 24 hours, dear harbinger of chaos. Tick tock, tick tock." The three of them returned to the Gryffindor common room, where Hermione, Neville, Ron, Ginny and Lee Jordan were waiting for them.
Hermione saw Harry and instantly felt that something was different. She couldn't put her finger on it, but she knew something had happened. The change was subtle, but it was there. She was staring at Harry's eyes with a little more concentration when the realization hit her. Harry's eyes were glowing with magic. The glow was dim, but they were glowing. Harry and the twins were telling the others what had happened in the Great Hall with the teachers after everyone had left. They had a good laugh. Slowly, everyone started to head to their dormitories.
Only Hermione and Harry remained in the common room. Ron had left to play a game of exploding snaps with Seamus and Dean. Ginny had gone with her classmates, talking about the prank they had just seen. The twins left with Lee to come up with their response to the banner. Neville had left to read a book he had recently bought from Flourish and Blotts.
Hermione turned to Harry and asked, "What is it, Harry?"
"Huh", replied Harry, "what do you mean?"
"Something is different. Your eyes are glowing. It's not that bright that you can easily pick out, but they are glowing. What happened?"
Of course, Hermione would have picked it up, thought Harry. He replied, "W-well, to be honest, it's nothing to worry about. You know how generations of my family members have been archmagi, right? They have all had a trait in common. When they were angry or power was oozing out, you could see it in their eyes. They had this persona of a very powerful archmagus, which they could move into and out of seamlessly. My father had started his training after his school. He didn't have the opportunity to do it before. Else, he might have been more proficient in harnessing his magical power and wild magic, like my grandfather Charlus.
"Anyway, during my time in the Time Chamber, I started reading my Family Grimoires to learn how to control and manipulate my magical core. I can now move into and out of the powerful persona demeanor at will. With the help of occlumency, I keep my temper in check to avoid them from glowing all the time. Besides, due to my familiar bond with Godric, when I get angry, he can raise thunderstorms. I let my magic run wild to warn Snape and Dumbledore about Snape's use of legilimency. I had gotten myself in control after it but right when I was about to leave, Dumbledore tried defending the greasy git again. The man is not in Azkaban only because of Dumbledore's arrangement with the Wizengamot, and he still keeps on committing crimes and Dumbledore keeps on defending him. I guess I am still mad at that."
Hermione took Harry's hand in hers and squeezed it. She said, "They will pay for it and their other crimes soon, Harry. We first need to deal with Voldemort and his band of death eaters. After that, Dumbledore and Snape will pay for their crimes." As Harry seemed to relax a bit, she continued, "We are all here for you. You can always talk to us, you know?"
Harry nodded his head and said, "Thanks, Hermione. You're the best friend I could ever wish for."
"You're welcome, Harry", replied a blushing Hermione. "You're best friend as well." Now it was Harry who was blushing. Hermione continued, "You have to show me your powerful persona someday. I want to see it."
Harry nodded his head and said, "I will, very soon." He continued, "The twins were able to guess that I was behind the prank. They're not sure if there were others involved but they knew it was me at the instant the Marauders passphrase was chorused by the teachers. I didn't tell them about the group but challenged them to outdo the prank." Harry then recounted his conversation with the twins to Hermione.
Hermione replied, "Oh, I can't wait to see what they do."
Harry's communication mirror vibrated at that instant. He retrieved it from his pocket to see that it was Sirius' call and answered it. Sirius' face appeared on the mirror. He said, "My, my, Prongslet. Moony told me that you kids pulled off an amazing prank on the entire school, including the teachers, and declared Prank Wars. I am so proud of you kids that I think I might cry happy tears."
Harry and Hermione were chuckling. Hermione replied, "Padfoot, you've got to see the entire incident."
Harry added, "I am sending you a copy of my memory of the incident." Harry called for Tony and handed him a vial with his extracted memory. He said to Tony, "Take it to Dadfoot." Tony bowed and left.
Sirius, without hanging up the call, watched the memory on the projection pensieve. Harry and Hermione could hear his bellowing guffaws. Sirius exclaimed, "That..haha..That…hahaha….That was bloody..oh hahahaah….That was bloody brilliant." He continued laughing. Trying to rein himself in, he added, "You people made Snivellus sing and dance….hahah…in front of the entire school. Hahahaha…and Minnie's expression…oh boy…you made it seem like an elaborate advertisement." He broke into laughter again. "The banners, they were great." He stopped laughing and took a deep breath. He finished, "That was brilliant. I can't to see your other pranks."
Harry then told Sirius about the conversation with the teachers and the twins. Sirius replied, "Dumbledore is going great lengths to protect Snape even though Snape should have been the first one to be put in Azkaban. I know you don't like to hear it, but we just have to keep playing the waiting game. He's more or less toothless for now. If he tries to do something stupid again, we will deal with it accordingly. Just don't pick a fight with the miserable bastard, pup. You got me?"
Harry nodded his head and said, "Yes, Dadfoot. Good night." Sirius wished them good night and hung up.
Hermione stretched and got off the couch. She said, "Alright, Harry, I am heading up to my dorm and you should head to yours as well." Harry nodded and got up. They walked to stairs to the girls' dormitory. Hermione hugged Harry and said, "Good night, Harry."
Harry returned the hug and said, "Good night, Hermione. And thank you for listening to me."
"Anytime, Harry", replied Hermione and set off for the dormitory.
Harry turned and climbed the stairs to the boys' dorm. It had been a long and eventful day. Though not everything had been completely pleasant or completely unpleasant, one thing that stuck out was his encounter with the dementor. Harry had never felt as miserable as he did when he was exposed to the dementor. They had studied about the dementors and that they can only be driven away by a patronus, which is what Hermione said Moony had used against the one who had attacked him. Harry didn't want to feel the same pain and the misery ever again. Nor did he wish any of his friends and family to feel it. The fact that Sirius had been exposed to them for a long period of time was also making him a bit angry. Realizing that there wasn't much he could do right away against the perpetrators didn't make him feel any good either. Taking a deep breath to calm himself down, he decided to speak with Moony about patronus in the next few days. With nothing else to do, he entered his dorm and joined his dormmates for a couple of games of exploding snaps.
As he changed into his sleepwear and got into his bed, he could hear the torrential rain. The howling wind had picked up speed and the rainfall had only gotten heavier with every passing minute. It reminded him of the evening's incident in the train. He strengthened his mental shields and tried to think of happy memories, not his mother's scream. He thought of the times they had spent on the beach during the holidays and took longer and deeper breaths. The sound of the heavy downpour and the howling wind seemed to slowly disappear as sleep finally took over him.
*Adrian's song from the first book.
**The song Snape sang is Don't Stop Me Now by Queen.