Harry blinked at his fiance as she smiled at him. He gave her a dubious look, "Snorkmaiden...What are you talking about?"

She tilted her head at him, "What else? I'm going to Hogwarts with you!"

Snufkin's shifted between the two before making himself scarce, going to the unrest that was the Moomin Parlor.

Harry fidgeted with his hands as he stared at her, trying to find a way to break it to her gently. "You...You can't go, Snorkmaiden. They want me as a Magician, er I mean, Wizard. I don't think it would be allowed."

Snorkmaiden gave a scoff, "And why not?! They can't expect my fiance to go compete in some Wizard game AND defeat some Dark Evil and not have me there!"

Harry went to protest when the door opened. Dumbledore came in with a bewildered look at the Moomin The parlor where everyone seemed to be a mix of anger and fear. He came up to Harry and Snorkmaiden.

"Oh, I hope this news didn't cause too much strife in your family." The older wizard muttered. Harry gave a bemused laugh, "No. The little one shouting and the nervous one pulling on his tail are always like this."

Snorkmaiden smiled and came up to shake hands with Dumbledore. Dumbledore smiled back as he gave her a gentle handshake.

She greeted him, "Hello Mr. Dumbledore or...Headmaster?"

"Either is perfectly fine." He reassured warmly.

"Good! I just wanted to introduce myself as Harry's fiance and tell you how excited we are to attend Hogwarts together."

Dumbledore looked taken aback a moment before schooling his features. Harry couldn't tell if it was the fiance part, her coming along or both.

Dumbledore paused a moment before speaking, "Well...That is...Congratulations to you both!" He gave a forced chuckle. Harry stepped forward with a huff, "Would you please tell her that not only is it too dangerous to go but that only I can go?"

Dumbledore scratched his chin. "Actually, she would be perfectly safe at our school...And technically there is no rule against a plus one. Especially under these conditions."

Harry frowned, "And you're sure she would be safe?"

"Oh yes, I would personally make sure of it."

Snorkmaiden gave a triumphant smile. "See? I'm going and that's final." Harry sighed as he ran a hand over his face. "Yes, so you've declared."

Snorkmaiden looked offended, "Don't you want me to go?"

Harry grabbed her hand. "I do! It would be nice to have someone I know with me. Especially you… But, I don't want you to be harmed or put out by anything. I've never even been to this place before."

Dumbledore cleared his throat to interrupt the couple. "I have to warn you. The wizarding world has its share of prejudice. Especially towards relationships such as yours… I feel it is only fair you know before making any final decisions."

Harry and Snorkmaiden looked surprised. "What do you mean? What is wrong with our relationship?" Snorkmaiden asked.

"I don't think there is anything wrong. By my personal opinion, you seem very in love with one another and that's what's important, isn't it? However, there are a lot of Witches and Wizards that are against other species...Especially in a relationship with a Wizard."

Snorkmaiden and Harry both looked to one another before Harry spoke. "No matter what, I'm sure it will be fine. After all, maybe they just need to see how happy we are as a couple."

Dumbledore gave a slight nod, looking like he wanted to say something further but chose not to... "Perhaps…" He paused before continuing, "Now, there are a few more things I'd like you to know. For one thing, you're much older than I expected! How old are you, Harry?"

"17 almost 18. What age did you expect?"

Dumbledore looked amazed. "Fascinating. Time here must flow differently than in the human or Wizarding world. You should have only just turned 14."

Harry blinked in shock. "Really?"

Dumbledore continued, "Your parents were known around Hogwarts. I imagine you have quite a bit of people that would like to see you."

Harry frowned, "Will they be… Confused when they meet me?"

Dumbledore gave Harry a solemn look. "People will be exceptionally surprised at you and how you look. Not to mention your choices as well as your magic levels. However, I'm sure all will work out just fine once you arrive."

Harry hadn't even noticed that the room had gone quieter or that they had an audience. He turned to see his family and friends listening.

Harry shuffled in place before speaking. "I suppose our time here is almost up. Should I go to pack?"

Dumbledore smiled, "I recommend it, yes."

Snorkmaiden looked startled. "Oh! Wait for me! I have to go pack AND tell Snork!" She dashed out the door without a second glance.

Harry would be lying if he said he didn't consider leaving while she was gone. For her safety as well as a part of himself feeling this was something he needed to do alone.

But he also knew that would be an awful mistake. She'd never forgiven him and it would be nice to have the extra company at this new strange place.

Harry sighed as he walked upstairs to go pack. Dreading at exactly when would be the next time he'd even come home...Then the scary thought hit him...What if he DOESN'T come home?

This dark Wizard had plotted his death once. What if he succeeds this time?

'You can't think like that. It isn't going to help anything.'

He went into his room and started packing. Getting a suitcase from one of the hall closets on his way in. He fumbled through his clothes, packing a bit of everything. Was it cold? Was it hot there? Did he have to wear a uniform? Was he allowed to take memorabilia?

Halfway through packing, a knock on the door sounded before a big white figure stepped in. Moomin frowned at his brother as his eyes saw the suitcase.

"You're really leaving."

Harry looked away with his own frown. "I don't have a choice, Moomin."

There was an awkward silence as Harry packed. Moomin cleared his throat to speak. "Will you write?"

Harry looked at him a moment before nodding. "Of course."

There was another moment of silence before Moomin spoke up again. "Everything is changing too fast. It seems like we were all just kids going on adventures and now everyone is leaving of moving on with their lives."

Harry sighed as he struggled to close his bag. "I know what you mean. If it wasn't for this Wizard thing, Snorkmaiden and I would have stayed in Moomin Valley."

Moomin shook his head, "Yes but you would have moved out."

Harry shrugged a bit. "Well...Yes. Snorkmaiden and I would have eventually."

Moomin helped Harry shut the suitcase. Harry smiled. "Thanks. I'm a bit too frazzled right now to get in my Snork form."

They stood there a moment before Harry stared earnestly at Moomin. He put a reassuring hand on Moomin's shoulder.

"I hope Snorkmaiden and I will be back sooner than Dumbledore suggest. I really do...Besides, Snorkmaiden wants a wedding as soon as possible...I want you to be my best man."

Moomin's eyes light up. "You really mean it?"

Harry grinned, "Of course! You're my brother!"

They both stood a moment longer before giving each other a quick hug. Patting each other on the shoulder before parting.

Harry lugged his suitcase out of the room as Moomin followed. "Don't let Mama and Pappa worry too much about me. I'll write whenever I can." Harry said as they made their way downstairs. He saw his family waiting.

Dumbledore lightly chuckled. "I feel you may be overpacking."

Harry quirked a slight smile. "Really? Well, if you think I'm overpacking, wait until you meet my fiance."

Dumbledore laughed warmly, "We shall see. I'll wait outside for you."

With that, Harry was left with his family and friends. To his shock, Little My was the first to come forward. She had a slight blush on her face as she glared at him.

"Don't get yourself into too much trouble and don't you dare be an idiot and make all of us worry about you either!"

He didn't even have time to react as she punched him in the arm (Or where ever she could reach). He winced as she walked out the door grumbling to herself.

Snufkin walked up to him with a small smile. "Huh, she must like you more than you think."

Harry mumbled an 'I guess'. Snufkin placed a hand on Harry's shoulder. "I hope your back home by the time I return next spring. Take care. I've got to get going soon myself."

Harry nodded and replied in kind, "Take care of yourself as well, Snufkin. " Snufkin walked out of the room as Moomin looked away with a frown.

Next up was Sniff. He wobbled up to Harry and practically threw himself into the Wizard's body. "You be safe, okay! I don't want to get a letter saying you were turned into a frog or something."

Harry chuckled, "I think being turned into a frog is the least of my worries but thanks, Sniff." Harry patted his back as he let go, shuffling out the door as well. Mumbling to himself about getting home to eat and sleep.

It left the Moomin's alone in their home. Moominpappa came forward. He cleared his throat, "Be the best wizard or magical being you can. Write often to us all." The older Moomin sniffed his emotions away, but Harry knew better he hugged his Pappa before his Mamma came in for a hug as well. "Have fun and learn too. Mr. Dumbledore seems like a very kind teacher." She gave her son a motherly smile.

Finally, Moomin pulled Harry in for another hug. "Be back soon."

"I'll try," Harry replied as he lifted his suitcase and left. He met Dumbledore and Hobgoblin outside. A pain of guilt washed over him as he saw his old teacher. An idea struck Harry as he approached the older wizards.

"Mr. Dumbledore. Is it possible Hobgoblin and I can walk to get Snorkmaiden while you wait here? Moominmama has more tea waiting."

Dumbledore's lip twisted in an unsure expression before relenting. "Alright, but we don't have too much longer to be in this realm."

"Of course, it will be quick, I promise!" With that, Harry and Hobgoblin started their walk to Snork house. Harry looked back at his home as Dumbledore went back inside. Sadness washed over him as he eyed the only home he has ever known.

They walked, the air thick with tension before Hobgoblin spoke up. "It was never my intention to lie to thee out of malice. I thought it was the best way to protect thee...I see many paths in the future but even this one surprised me. I thought that after you were a certain age, they'd give up and let you go. I can assure you, had I known this path would commence, I would have warned thee a long time ago."

Harry thought for a moment before smiling at his mentor. "I'm sorry for being so angry with you earlier. It was just such a shock...But...I guess I understand why you lied. I'm the type that would have surrounded myself with finding answers and avenging my real parents."

"Precisely why I thought ignorance was bliss in this case. It was for naught."

They continued their walk, not taking long to reach a neighboring house in Moomin Valley.

"I'm gonna miss this place." Harry sighed. Hobgoblin nodded in agreement. "You'll be back soon enough. Your parents must have placed a protective spell on thee like a baby. It's why this dark one failed the first time."

Harry subconsciously touched the scar on his forehead. Hobgoblin continued, "I see multiple paths for you now but I'm certain the paths that sticks out the most, are you returning and Marrying your fiance."

Harry smiled before turning to his mentor. "Thank you."

It wasn't long before Snorkmaiden came rushing out of her home, Snork fumbling behind her. "What do you mean you're leaving for a wizard kingdom?! When?! Why?!" He urgently asked as his sister kissed his cheek and rushed towards Harry and Hobgoblin.

"I'll write to you about it, Snork! I'm running late as it is! Love you and talk to you soon!" She called behind her as Snork stared after her in confusion. She huffed as she walked with Harry and Hobgoblin.

"Sorry, I'm late! Where is Dumbledore?"

Harry replied, "Waiting at my house. Is Snork going to be okay?"

"Oh yes, he'll be fine! He'll get into his inventions and lose track of time anyways. Before long, he'll be walking me down the aisle!" Her fur turned pink with joy at the idea. She hummed as she walked with a skip in her step. Harry wished he could be as optimistic as his love about all this. Perhaps he will be soon.

Hobgoblin halted Harry, "I shall allow you both to part. I'm a call away and I'll be watching...I'm proud of you, Harry."

Harry felt a lump in his throat as he hugged Hobgoblin. The older man was a bit stiff but hugged him back. Harry pulled away, "You've been an amazing teacher. And you're family to me. I'll be back soon enough, I swear it."

Hobgoblin smiled and bowed. "I count on it, young Magician." His form slowly materialized into a shimmer of light before he left. Snorkmaiden turned around to see Harry smiling and Hobgoblin vanished.

"What happened to Mr. Hobgoblin?"

Harry shook his head with a soft smile. "I guess he's not good with goodbyes. He wanted to let me and you go with Dumbledore alone."

It wasn't long before they arrived back at Moomin home, Dumbledore waiting. Harry and Snorkmaiden watched as Dumbledore created a portal similar to what he used to arrive. Harry sadly watched his family wave from his home. Entering the green swirling light and leaving Moomin Valley for the first time in his life.

Meanwhile, in a distant part of the realm snakes twisting darkness. A feeble form lay dormant against a dark throne. Eyes heavy and breathing labored but the dark magic threatened to radiate from him in such an intensity as to burst.

Though his form was something small, he knew he'd grow. This was a terrible inconvenience but it would soon be remedied. He would become what he wished in a short time, not long at all. So did his death eaters know this fact as well. His followers adored him as their lord, the one to rule the Wizarding world and beyond it. One entered the room with a deep now to the creature.

"My lord! The bastard Potter child has arrived! It worked! We have yet to see him but Dumbledore found him and fetched him from his world."

The creature, no longer a man, looked over at the henchman. "Of course it worked. My only anger lies in not finding the boy sooner...No matter. His name has been placed in the Goblet and he shall have no choice. Everything will fall into place, and I shall rise to my former glory. We shall rise." The small dark lord wheezed out. It didn't affect his henchman as the scrawny man bowed deeply with a grin.

The dark lord raised a feeble hand, "Bring me to the meeting hall. I wish to address my other death eaters of just how close my victory will be."

The man gingerly picked up the dark one, cradling him like a child. "Yes my lord, right away!" He eagerly obeyed.

Harry felt Snorkmaiden gasp and clutch onto him as light whirled around them, feeling their bodies shoot forward.

"Just close your eyes." Harry murmured to his fiance. He had traveled once or twice in this way with Hobgoblin but Snorkmaiden had never experienced anything like this before.

"Please let this be over soon, please let this be over soon, please-" She chanted to herself as Harry chuckled and wrapped an arm around her. It was a bit easier with him still in his human form with his long arms. "It's okay! Think of it like that time we rode on those clouds when we were kids."

"This is NOTHING like that!" Snorkmaiden exclaimed, practically crawling on top of Harry in fear. She hung onto his sleeve for dear life and screwed her eyes shut. It wasn't long before the portal evaporated and they stood on grass once more. They had to balance themselves at a sudden stop.

"Is it...Is it over yet?" She clamored. Harry chuckled and kissed her forehead, "Yes dear, it is."

She opened her eyes and Harry watched them widen in wonder. His gaze followed her own, looking straight ahead in amazement. His breath caught at the giant structure before them. A huge castle-like something from Snorkmaiden's fairy tales.

A few witches and wizards laughed in their uniforms as they went into the school. Two students played with their wands, lights flashing about them in a show.

Snorkmaiden gasped beside him. "How incredible…" She breathed out, clutching his hand in her own.

Dumbledore straightened his robes. "I would have usually had you take the scenic route by train but I wished to get here as soon as possible to get you both settled." He drew his hand out to observe the school before them.

"Welcome to Hogwarts."