Hey everyone,
So I decided not to change the genre of Family, but I did add Hurt/Comfort to it as the whole Heartstamp Spell, the future Sora, Riku and co came from and the plans Molly and Ginny had for Harry do make him need the comfort of everyone, both those already there and whoever else might come along for the ride.
I also have been contemplating on whether or not I should go back to the reading or focus a bit more on Harry. Personally, I think I am going to do a bit of Harry, then focus back on the reading and then throw him in sometime halfway through the chapter. His emotions are important, but so is getting through this book.
You know why,
Venquine1990
Chapter 40
Chasers And Seekers
14th of August 1995
Grounds, Potter Place
Harry's POV
I just run. After getting out of the basement where the meeting with Percy was held, have I done nothing but run. I somehow managed to reach the edge of the grounds, even if the magic of the border wall doesn't show this and from there I have just been running across the length of the edge, going by the direction the magic guides me to.
And while I am quite sure I should have gotten out of breath after passing the right side and front of the house, is this not the case. This I can only imagine is because I am inside my own home and the magic has recognized me as such, but even the fact that I am helped by my own home does not help with the shock or the pain.
"A mother that wants to kill off her own son – and then probably pretend to grieve over it so she can grow closer to us. I can't believe that woman! I can't STAND THAT WOMAN!" And with these thoughts do I just keep running, passing the other side of the house as well as large parts of the grounds in the backyard.
I spot the arena and notice that everyone is returning to it, but ignore this and hope they don't spot me as I really can't be around anyone right now. And to my relief do I manage to reach the other side of a small bit of wood before any of them see me. I hide behind it, ignoring how part of me is dying to have my mates near.
But I know that the twins don't have the same stamina as I do and neither does Lea enjoy the same luxury of the wards providing him a constant in his own stamina. They wouldn't be able to keep up with me and right now running feels like the only thing through which I can properly express how horrible this revelation is.
I reach the other side of the wood and turn to the right, running past the rest of it and noticing a very small pond, only deep enough to reach my ankles. I notice it shimmer with some kind of magic before a bit of wind blows some water out of the pond. It shoots at me and somehow, by instinct, I open my mouth and swallow it.
To my shock, the water actually tastes the same as if it were to come out of a tab and I realize that, while my stamina is still being kept constant by the wards, I was starting to feel thirsty. And while I have been crying the entire time I run, do a few tears of gratitude for the magic of Potter Place now join the tears of pain and horror.
At the arena
Sirius' POV
"Harry won't be joining us." I tell everyone who sits down and instantly Hermione asks: "What? Why?" At which Lea answers: "Percy came over with a report from the investigation into Molly and Ginerva's actions led by Bill and Madam Bones. The things they found horrified him too much. He needs time alone."
"Are you sure?" Ariel asks in concern and the twins nod as one of them says: "Yeah, the bonding experience we had last chapter allows us to sense his presence. He's running past the border wall. It even seems as if the magic of the border is keeping him going." At this James nods and says: "He is a Potter, after all.
And after all these years of being hidden away by the Glamour, there really isn't anything the border magic won't do for those who are of the blood that has grown and flourished upon the land within that border. It's as sentient as the magic of Hogwarts, just less powerful and more personalized, really." At which we all nod.
"Don't worry, once Harry is done running, the magic will probably stop providing him this constant boost in stamina. That will tire him and allow him to fall asleep. When that happens, I'll phase over and take him to his room. Best to let him run off the pain first and then sleep through the rest of how he feels over this."
At this everyone nods and then Angelina says: "We don't really know what was told at that meeting as the girls and I were staying outside of the room in the hallway, but the look on Harry's face when he ran out – it was like he was back there. Back at the Quidditch Pitch after he returned with Cedric's body. It was the exact same look."
This horrifies everyone and Arthur, who has not been his usual jovial self since hearing the news from Prewett mutters: "She wrote her plans in Gideon and Fabian's will. She planned to – to make the blank picture become a reality. She had more than one deadly victim on her list of plans." And true horror rings through the arena.
"Didn't you bring us here to read about Quidditch?" Katie then asks and when we nod, she says: "Then let's do that. Let's prove that wicked woman she can't beat us or get us down." And while this sparks a few tentative smiles, does the girl pick up the book from the center of the arena and page through it.
"We just finished chapter 18. It was about Harry agreeing to lead a secret group to learn actual practical Defense Against the Dark Arts, because Fudge thought Dumbledore would use such classes to raise an army against him." Hermione tells the girl and while all three look at her as if she's mad, does Katie then start to read.
The Lion and the Serpent
This makes all of the current lions look up and as one, they say: "Malfoy." Making the rest of us grimace. Yet then Ron starts to smirk and ask: "Remember what Luna said? About how his other actions just prove how he knows he's a bad player compared to Harry?" And this cheers the group up as Katie reads on.
Harry felt … bulging eyes.
"Wait, Umbridge is the teacher? That is so wrong on so many levels I can't even start to count them!" Alicia then suddenly says and James asks: "I imagine you have a personal reason for that?" To which the girl nods and says: "My House has been in vendetta against her and her father for years. They're horrible people.
There are rumors going around that the Umbridge line bonds with Muggleborns, Half-bloods or even Muggles and then destroys everything that other family stands for, ruins them financially, take those finances for their own and use those finances to get jobs they don't deserve. They're considered hypocrites of the worst kind.
And House Spinnet has always been against hypocrites, especially in social, political or the financial circles of society. It's that the majority of the Wizengamot has to vote positive for a High-Ministerial member to be put on trial or she would have been in Azkaban when I was three, if my mother is to be believed, that is."
"Umbridge has been the Minister's Undersecretary for that long?" Ron asks shocked, but Alicia shakes her head and says: "No, she was the Deputy Head of another high-standing Department back then. Did a lot of damage to it, which is why mum wanted her trialed, but the Wizengamot wouldn't hear a word of it.
It bothers and aggravates mum every time she thinks back on it. She's still working for the Ministry herself, but her contract – thanks to her own Head of Department – prevents her from coming in contact with the vile woman. And especially now, she's really grateful for that." At this we all nod and Katie continues to read.
He and … to dust.
This makes most of us smile, except Moody who grunts: "I get why Potter did what he did in the first meeting, but this doesn't sound too good. A bit too simple, if you ask me." But to this Remus sighs and says: "That's the fault of my and your predecessors, Alastor. They just held the students back horribly in their education."
Yet then he smiles at the scarred man and says: "But don't you worry. I know Harry and I'm sure he'll have that bunch up to speed in no time. We might even read of him teaching the others the Patronus." And while Alastor nods in satisfied agreement to this, do I smile as all of the current students get excited over this and Katie reads on.
He was … too often.
"That is just wrong. The Sorting Hat advised everyone to become united and the DA is doing exactly that." Luna mumbles in sadness and Kairi sighs as Riku says: "That's true, but right now Umbridge is there and she's suspicious of practically everyone unless they vow loyalty to her. It's just the way it is, Luna." The girl nods, but then Sora says:
"But hey, look around you. This group is probably just as big as the DA and it will only grow bigger. And it even has members that the DA didn't have. Isn't that great? Just think of how much more it will grow as we continue reading." And the way that this cheers everyone up makes me smile at my son in pride as Katie reads on.
She gave … mimic his."
Yet this last bit Katie reads in shock and she looks up, Angelina and Alicia following her example. But before Alicia can open her mouth, does Katie look back and say: "Wait! What we want to ask her is in the book. It's in a few paragraphs." And while Hermione has turned a little red under the three gazes, does Katie read on.
A blank … it is."
At this Ron rolls his eyes and says: "That's what shocked you? Hermione's the smartest witch her age and Harry can do a Patronus and has done so since he was in Third. Come on, you girls must be used to them being this talented by now." And while this does nothing to Hermione's tan, do the girls hum in agreement as Katie reads.
"How come … it with."
"You know, Ron. There is actually a club a few streets down from here that holds monthly Chess tournaments. And they award really good money prizes. Also yes, they hold both Muggle and Magical chess tournaments at the same time every month. They just never tell the Muggles about the Magical ones that they hold."
James suddenly tells the boy, who asks in shock: "Wait, there are things like that?" To which the man nods and then Arthur makes his day as he asks: "Do you think Albus will be okay with Ron leaving Hogwarts for these tournaments from time to time? Not every month, he does have OWLS, but – what do you think?"
To this James smirks and says: "I'm sure that, as long as he keeps studying and keeps his marks high enough, neither Minerva nor Albus should have any objections to this. Also, the Tournaments are usually over the weekends, so no classes will be missed." And this seems to relieve Hermione and Katie smiles widely as she reads on.
As the … won't you?"
This makes everyone smile, yet Augusta's smile looks a bit forced and she hums as she says: "That sounds good, but – I better make a note of that. Make sure I keep an eye on it in case they decide to do this for less-pressing matters or in more – unpleasant manners.""You don't believe that, do you? Surely they won't!"
Hermione gasps at this, but Augusta says: "Minerva has already proven that she isn't being a proper Head of House, I know how competitive she can get and I know all about Snape and what kind of Head he is. I'm just being precautious, though not just towards those two." And while this slightly dampens the mood, does Katie read on.
Snape was … the library.
At this Augusta turns to the girl and says: "If this happens, come to me instantly. I am the school's new High Inquisitor and my goal is to make the school great for the students. I will do so and will let Snape know what he can expect if he doesn't punish Bletchley for this." The girl smiles at her for this and her friend reads on.
Harry felt … miss more.
"Something we will be sure to help you with, Ron." The twins instantly chorus and the Chasers nod at this as they say: "And we will happily help on that. Maybe training against one of us one at a time, so you can make sure not to miss one goal we try to make?" At this Ron is smiling widely at all five of them and Katie happily reads on.
On the … four years.
"We're joking. We always say things like that as a joke." The twins instantly defend themselves, but then Luna says: "But if you do so too many times, the people you joke about will start to believe you, even if you add humor to your voices." Making the two of them cringe and apologize to their younger brother as their fellow player reads on.
The only … time, too.
"That's the difference. The difference between someone who grew up deeply loved and someone who grew up constantly belittled and insulted. Ron is the former and Harry is the latter, so he's more used to it." Luna says sadly and I can tell that she too is, if only slightly, in the same boat as my little boy. Katie sighs at this and reads on.
October extinguished … and faces.
Yet this seems to shock Ron and Hermione and they share a look as Ron says: "Halloween passed? Just like that?" Yet Hermione seems to have the answer as she sighs and says: "I – I can only imagine that, because Umbridge is nasty 24/7, Halloween just passed on without trouble." This worries me and I ask them:
"What do you mean?" And Ron answers: "In our First Hermione, due to me being a heartless prat and our DADA teacher being possessed, got face to face with a Mountain Troll. In Second Riddle – through Ginny – opened the Chamber of Secrets. In third, you attacked the Fat Lady and last year, Harry became a Champion."
Here Hermione shrugs and says: "Something always seems to happen on Halloween. It always seems as if Halloween is the start of our latest adventure. But, I guess, because this adventure is against Umbridge and her craziness, it started earlier, so Halloween just got passed." And this makes me grimace as Katie reads on.
The skies … his mouth.
"When did that happen?" Arthur asks shocked and Ron answers: "Back in our Second. It was the first time Malfoy called Hermione a Mudblood and it was after the Willow broke my wand. I had it Spellotaped and tried casting that charm with it, but it backfired." And while his father looks at this concerned, does Katie read on.
"You just … read them.
Yet suddenly Axel and the twins look away from where we are all watching Katie read and look at the house before Axel says: "I'll be right back." But this isn't something the twins, James or I accept and we all grab hold of his robe just before he vanishes the way he usually does. And the sensation of phasing in utterly incredible.
At first it feels like I am walking into the darkest corner of Knockturn Alley in the middle of the night during a Lunar Eclipse. This is quickly followed up by a bright flash of light, as if someone suddenly opens the darkest of curtains to a bright summer sun, only to be quickly followed up by the former, darker sensation.
And while this all happens in only the span of a few seconds, does it still leave me feeling a little disorientated and befuddled. I shake my head and notice that we have been moved to the front of the house, near the front gates. I look around and then spot something that really pulls on my heartstrings and brings out my fatherly side.
Harry is leaning against the single tree on the right of the gate, has his legs crouched up and his arms wrapped around it. He is panting quite badly and his cloths are soaked with sweat, which is also running down his face, making his already long hair get stuck to his face, the back of his head and parts of his neck.
The boy has his eyes closed, but there are also tears still running down his face, mixing with the sweat running down his face. Instantly all of us move over to sit around him and James asks: "Had enough running done, kiddo?" And my son groans as he nods before, his voice sounding wheezy and out of breath, he tells us:
"I – I hate her – so much. Even – even – even Petunia never wanted me dead and – and I know she – she did a – a good job arranging a-a-a-aunt Lily's funeral. But – but – but NO! Molly Prewet! The nigh-on poster-woman for all good mothers! The woman who is considered to have a bigger heart than the Great Hall! A KILLER!
And for what? To make those that loved her son grieve with her and have them console and care for her. To have them exactly where she wants them so she can get her greedy little claws into them. So she can manipulate them to get what she wants. Her greed, her filthy, despicable, selfish, unethical greed – at the cost of her son!"
And while Fred and George want to console and comfort the lad, do I shake my head at them, silently telling them that this is what my son needs. Harry is the kind of person that needs to vent. That doesn't want others to talk, just to listen. That doesn't always want advice, but just someone to talk, yell, shout, rave and rant to.
The two nod, proving they understand and when my son is done, does Lea take over as he says: "And every day that we live lives that she would have never wanted for us and make sure that those photo's turn blank, we extract a kind of revenge that no justice system, Dark Lord or other kind of person could ever stand up to.
Keep that memorized, Little Flame." Harry smiles at him for this and then James says: "Let's get you to bed." And when Harry wants to object, do I say: "We can be the hosts for the reading, pup, but you need your rest. You are emotionally and physically drained and we just reached the first match. You're not fit to read along with that."
Harry looks down at this, but the twins chorus: "No one blames you, angel. They all understand." Making us all smile at them. We all then grab onto Lea, who puts his hand on Harry's shoulder and another Lunar Eclipse, opened curtains, Lunar eclipse sensation later are we back in my little boy's bedroom – with a surprise guest.
Riku is standing beside the bed and says: "I promised the Headmaster I would check Harry for the connection and that recurring nightmare he's been having of the corridor. Might as well do it while he's getting his energy back." And while Harry turns a little red at this, does James calmly tell the Longbottom Heir:
"Don't wake him up." And while his tone is calm, is the warning quite clear. Riku nods and both James and me give our pup a warm, loving hug, James adding another warning to boot: "Don't come down until you've rested." Making me snort. Harry receives a kiss on the cheek from the twins and a hug from Lea and then lies down.
And while we walk out, does Riku take a seat in one of the lounge chairs, pulling a book from the walled shelf nearby and showing Harry that he is willing to wait with his task until my son's fast asleep. The five of us then walk out of the room and suddenly the twins ask: "Why didn't Sora come along with us?"
To which Lea smirks: "Because he was seated with Riku, too far away to grab onto me in time." Making the two snort as James asks: "Do you think Riku got my message?" And I smirk: "I doubt he'll come down if he wakes Harry up with his task." But James shakes his head and says: "That's not what I meant."
This confuses me and he says: "I meant, if Harry does still have the nightmare, take it out. Don't let the nightmare wake him up." I nod at this and Lea says: "Riku got that. I could tell by the look in his eyes. He'll make sure." And this relieves the two of us, just as we pass through the double doors and out into the backyard.
We walk over to the arena and Ariel is the first to ask: "Is he alright?" We nod and I answer: "We gave him a chance to vent and express how he feels about Molly. Lea gave him some sound advice and we took him to his bedroom. Riku will also wait till he's asleep, check him for the nightmare and make sure it doesn't wake him.
And Harry knows that, if he comes down while still tired or sleepy, James will let him have it. He's not coming down for another few hours." To which Katie says: "Then let's make sure we cover as much as possible. Seeing how this book targets Harry something horrible, we might as well spare him as much as possible."
We all nod at her and then I notice it. The minute Katie spoke, Luna looked up into the sky, a bit of a drift making her hair flow across her shoulders. The girl's eyes turn a little bit sharper and she says: "Good, those pictures will just break him if we don't." And while her voice is loftily, her warning is very clear as Katie reads on.
They received … by accident."
This startles everyone, but then Angelina turns to Ron and says: "I promise you, Ron. When we get to that match, Wood will be green with envy on what you can do and will be in your shadow. You might still have a few accidents like that, but I will make sure they will be few and far between." Ron smiles at this and Katie reads on.
"Well," said … vicinity jump.
This really startles a lot of those around, but also impresses a lot of the adults and James instantly turns to Luna and asks: "Want to work on making that together, Luna?" The girl tilts her head and then says: "Sure, I'd love to. But are you sure?" And James happily answers: "Totally, I can't wait!" Making me grin as Katie reads on.
"It's good … whispered urgently.
But at this Augusta starts to glare and says: "If those badges are meant to be discouraging or in other ways demoralizing to just one player, they are against the Hogwarts rules. Looks like I have something else I might have to take note of." And as if on cue, does a House Elf pop up with stationary. Augusta thanks him as Katie reads on.
Harry looked … Our King
This confuses Ron, but makes the rest of the students frown and grimace and Hermione says: "There's a hidden meaning behind that. Just like Buckbeak and those Support Cedric Badges from last year." Yet then the girl gets shocked as, from the forest, a blur of grey jumps out, makes a bit of a twirl and then dives back in.
"Wait, when did Buckbeak get here?" Ron asks shocked only for Seamus to ask: "Hold on, isn't that that crazy –?" But then the twins chorus: "Malfoy." And instantly the Irish lad groans: "Right. Sorry, I forgot it was him who called it that." And while he quietly seems to explain the whole thing to his mother, does Katie read on.
With an … assured her.
"They're really not." Luna suddenly says and the tone of her voice has us all turn to her in shock. It's dark and dreary and is nothing like the light, airy voice she has spoken with before. "Whenever those two aren't with Malfoy, like when they're in different electives, everyone gets scared and hurries to their next class.
The First years are their targets almost every year, but they pick on outsiders a lot too. Or encourage and advice other bullies." And just by the tone of her voice does everyone know that the girl has personally experienced all of this. Augusta goes to sit with her and whispers: "Tell me everything when you're ready, dear."
To which Luna nods and I ask: "Maybe end the reading after this or the next chapter? We do still have 2 ½ weeks until school restarts. And Potter Place is big enough for all of you to stay at whenever you're not out at work." Everyone nods at this, the Ministerial workers and Finnegans smiling gratefully as Katie reads on.
They could … good luck."
At this Ron gulps and says: "I think book-me could have really used a Harry-speech right around that point." To which the twins chorus: "Another good reason to make him Captain." And everyone nods in agreement at this, obviously remembering the speech in the Hogs Head chapter, making me proud of my son as Katie reads on.
The team … his chest.
"He's relying on a trick to win the game." James growls and while I hate that I am, actually related to this blonde, do I sigh and mutter: "He really is a bad player." And Ron sighs as he says: "I just hope my book-self will realize this as well. Doubt it, though." And while he gets a comforting hug from Hermione, does Katie read on.
"Captains, shake … our King."
And this is instantly followed by the scratching of Augusta's quill as she says: "I will make sure to have both Jason and Snape aware of this. Snape can consider that his one chance to prove that his House is more than just rule-breaking over-achievers and Jason to have the Board of Governors punish Slytherin as a whole if this happens."
"YOU CAN DO THAT!" Ron asks in utter shock and Augusta smirks at him as she says: "First of all, never think I got my reputation pushing up daisies or something. Second, as the new High-Inquisitor, set to make Hogwarts better for the students, I will be honor-bond to. It will look bad on me, if I don't." At which Katie happily reads on.
"– and Alicia … QUAFFLE IN…"
But while Ron is obviously upset that he missed his chance to be a good Keeper, does this song actually seem to cheer him up. "Why are you smiling?" Hermione asks and Ron answers: "Every time that song comes up, I remember Lady Longbottom's promise." Making his brothers laugh and Augusta smirk as Katie reads on.
"– and Gryffindor … the pitch.
And while the arena has been, what I can only imagine, resembling what the Quidditch pitch side for Gryffindor would have been like during this match and while Ron's grin actually returned and grew every time the song came back, does excitement and joy now fill everyone who has ever seen my son play a game.
Everyone, I suddenly notice, except for Katie, who is frowning in confusion and concern. "I – I don't think he'll catch it. There's still quite a bit of story left. Either that or – urgh, his First Match of the Year curse is going to strike again." And yet again I feel both confused and concerned as I ask: "I beg your pardon? His what?"
To which Angelina says: "First match of the Year curse. Harry, like with Halloween, can never have a normal first match of the year. His broom got cursed in his First, he got a rogue Bludger chasing him in Second and the Dementors in Third." And instantly everyone is tense, worried for what could happen next as Katie reads on.
He dived … his broom.
At this I surge off my seat, onto my feet, furious rage filling me up as I can only imagine which of those spineless cowards dared to try such a thing. "Augusta, tell both Snape and Jason that, if this happens, House Black will demand a Blood feud on the guilty party. I will not have my son risked with injury over a victory that way."
At this Augusta nods and when Hermione asks: "Do you think it wise to let Snape know that?" Do I snort and say: "I couldn't care less what Snape thinks, Hermione. His players are in the wrong and if he's willing to let them injure my son, he's got me to deal with. Harry can handle himself, I won't deny that, but he deserves protection too.
And Snape can whine and nag about the past all he wants, this is the future. If this happens, it will be done by someone who has nothing to do with the feud we once had as kids and Snape, for all his hate of me, can't say I am in the wrong here. I am a father defending my son. He can sneer all he wants, he knows I'm in the right."
At this Hermione nods before I roll my eyes and say: "Besides, I said it before and I'll say it again. Those arguments with Snape just bore me. I got better things to do than stroke his ego and make him think I still care about the past like that. I live in the here and now, thank you." Which makes my husband smile at me as Katie reads on.
Luckily he … lyrics, Potter?"
And the grin that grows on Augusta's face over this says it all and makes Ron squeal as he asks: "What? What you'd got?" His excitement clear in his voice. "Players are not allowed to ask, seek or receive help during a game, unless under extreme conditions. Malfoy admitting that this was his song proves he planned this.
He may not be Team Captain, but this is a strategy not planned by his team. That makes him guilty of breaking that rule. There are, naturally, no rules that say the Houses can't support their own before the game – even if Snape obviously took that rule to heart a little too much – but this happened during the game and was done by outsiders."
"But what about Harry? During the first match of Third, Hermione had to cast a spell on his glasses to make sure he could see.""Was it raining?""Bad enough even Lee couldn't see a thing." To this Augusta nods and says: "That would make it an extreme condition. This started when the match did. A different situation entirely."
This makes all of the Gryffindor kids smile at each other and Hermione proves she hates Malfoy just as much as the others as she asks: "So, what's the punishment?" To which Augusta ruins the mood slightly as she says: "If he still comes up with this – or his team mates – they'll be suspended from the Final match entirely."
Yet while the reminder that this has yet to happen and might not dampens the mood slightly, do the mouths of the Lions still drop when they hear this and Ron asks: "Suspended? From the Final match?" And Augusta nods and says: "Or the next match against the same team, if the guilty team doesn't play in the Finals."
At this all the kids turn to each other and Ron asks: "Do we really want to give Malfoy a head's up about this?" But then Luna says: "If you don't, you'll be no better than him." They all instantly turn back to Augusta, but the woman shrugs and says: "I'm duty bound. I would have done it regardless." Katie nods at this and reads on.
Harry didn't … you know –"
"Is he trying to prove that he's a sore loser? Or trying to prove that he's a bad player?" Luna asks, but Neville looks grim and says: "This is it. This is where Harry's curse will strike. Malfoy will get under his skin and he'll lash out. He's trying to get Harry in trouble." Which completely ruins the previously happy mood as Katie reads on.
Fred and … Bludger attack.
"Why in Merlin's name isn't –?" James wants to ask, but I have already thought ahead and glare at the book. I then turn to Augusta and say: "Forget warning Snape. The bastard deserves a Blood feud of his own." This shocks the whole group and he says: "Snape would never let his Snakes do something this rule breaking so openly.
He's stalling Minerva, so Malfoy can have his little spiel. He's in on all of this." Everyone looks at this shocked and then James growls: "He didn't deserve that trip down to the cellar." He then turns to me and then we both turn to Remus. The man sighs and says: "Let's put the past where it belongs, once and for all."
We both nod and James says: "Sora, you'll be in charge after either this or next chapter. It will be up to you to entertain and host our guests, see to it that the House Elves provide them where needed and to sit at the Head of the Table during meals if we're not back by then." This worries my son and while he nods, does he ask:
"Where will you be?" And James answers: "At Hogwarts. Snape is stuck in the past and believes all Lions to be bullies who deserve to be put in their place. It's time he gets to see the truth. It's time he starts living in the present, even if it has to be his haunting past that pulls him out of there." Yet to this my son asks:
"What do you mean?" And I sigh as I say: "Snape is your typical bully victim, Sora. He bullied us a lot during our teenage years, but we did the same to him ourselves. He just doesn't see it like that, so he has this jaded view that everything – especially Gryffindor – is still the way it was in the Seventies – or better said, his Seventies.
He doesn't just make all Gryffindors out to be bullies, he thinks Gryffindors can only be three kinds of people. Who I was as a teen, who James was as a teen and who Remus was as a teen. Arrogant and proud, cocky and sometimes mean with his jokes, or unwilling to go against his friends, even if it's to uphold the rules.
He's stuck in those beliefs and thinks himself some kind of saint, someone who went through this, just to keep others like him from experiencing the same. He just doesn't realize that, in that belief, he's become no better than what we were like. That he's become what we were back then. And the craziest of it all.
He doesn't realize that people grow up. That they can change. He doesn't want to believe that, because then his whole world will collapse. He's build his entire world around that belief and normally, I'd be okay with that – but not if it hurts or endangers my son." At this Sora nods, but then Hermione makes me grimace as she asks:
"Surely you won't do anything stupid?" But James shakes his head and says: "Just going to give Snape the wake-up call he needs." And I say: "Hermione, Albus wanted us to leave the past behind us back in June. Snape here proved he didn't feel like doing that, but for the sake of my son, I will force him if I have to."
This worries the girl, but then I shrug and say: "Besides, I already know a way to get that done – without having to even so much as take my wand with me. I will, because I no longer trust the guy – never really did beyond the surface – but that's not the point." The girl looks relieved, but also intrigued by this and Luna proves her smarts.
"Snape thinks everything in regards to him, Lord Black and Lord Potter revolves around the past. What they do, how they live their lives, how they raise Sora and Harry, all of it. He thinks it's all to spite him, to bring up the past in the most, for him, hurtful ways possible." At this I nod at the smart girl and say:
"So all I really have to do – is prove the guy wrong, prove that he's the self-centered one and show him the mirror that should have been put in front of him years ago. And whether that mirror becomes an imagined or a real one – will be up to him." At this Hermione nods, her eyes proving she likes this idea as Katie reads on.
"Or perhaps … of it –"
And while my explanation has actually calmed everyone else down, does this erupt a volcano of rage and anger inside me and I shout: "THAT'S IT! THAT RIGHT THERE! THAT PROVES THAT THIS IS ALL SNAPE! Malfoy, unless he was raised solely by Lucius, which I doubt, should have at least learned respect for the dead."
But then Ron shocks me as he says: "He hasn't." His assured tone taking my anger like a sudden gust of wind. I look at him and he shrugs as he says: "Malfoy has been using the dead for years. In First, last and several other times too. He really doesn't care a bit. This is him, all him." And this angers me all the more as I growl:
"Then I guess I have no choice. I'll need a word with Narcissa." To this Andy wants to speak up, but I shake my head and say: "No, Andromeda. This meeting will be between a Head and a member of his House." And while I know the woman really wants to see her sister again, does she nod in compliance before Katie reads on.
Harry was … feet away.
This makes Augusta frown and she says: "That too is against the rules. Teachers, unless they are a Head of House, are not allowed such spellwork upon students, even if it is part of their own subject or for the sake of protecting another student. They are only allowed a weak summoning charm, not cast spells that can potentially be harmful.
And the Impediment Jinx can be harmful as it can shoot a student into a wall or other form of obstruction, causing them physical harm. I will have to remind Rowanda of that when I meet her." Yet here I notice all those in my son's year sharing shocked looks and I ask: "Do I even want to know?" Part of me already thinking: "No."
"Last year. The Fake Moody put us all under the Imperius Curse. He said it was to really teach us how those spells work, so we could learn how to overcome them." And while this infuriates me, does Dean say: "And in our Second, did Lockhart do a lot of reenactments and always with Harry. And he casts spells at Harry from time to time too."
This instantly horrifies and worries me, because I remember what Harry found out about the man, but then an elder, calming voice says: "Which is exactly why the Healers are now working twice as hard to get his memory restored, so he can stand trial and face the consequences of his actions." And we see Albus come to sit with us.
Instantly I share another glance with James and Remus and say: "Katie, please read the part that made us decide on our upcoming break and trip." And while she obviously doesn't like it, does Katie do as asked. She reads of Harry catching the Snitch, the Bludger hitting him and of everything Malfoy said, right down to the part about Lily.
The man looks horrified and shocked at hearing all of this and I say: "And all the while Hooch is too busy with Crabbe to see or hear anything and Minerva is nowhere to be found. Coincidence? Yeah, if your name is Severus Snape. This was planned, Albus, and goes way beyond breaking a few simple school rules.
This was moral, emotional and even physical abuse. You know James and I now have a right to demand more of Snape in return than he can give to us even if he were to work in your job three lifetimes over. But we also know how vital he is to the war. So here –." But then Luna interrupts me and says:
"He isn't." We all turn to her, shocked to see her hair covering her entire face, even though she spoke so clearly and I think: "The winds hate that guy with a bigger passion than we do. Because he's pretending to be useful? Now there's a surprise." And as I roll my eyes at this, does Albus ask: "Dear girl, what do you mean?"
And Luna speaks the words on an angel as she says: "Harry is only needed for the war as long as we need him for that. If we prove we need him for other things, he becomes way more important and others can, much easier and much better, take his place. Snape knows this and is manipulating it where and when he can.
He knows that out there, in England – all over England really – there are people that can help you much better and faster than Harry ever could, but he doesn't tell you of this. He only tells you of Harry, because he wants you focused only on Harry. His abuse is mostly emotionally, so –." And James growls in rage as he says:
"He wants my son emotionally broken as payback." At this Albus tries to object and say: "Severus –." But then Katie interrupts him and again reads the part she just reread. The man winces and says: "Never mind. I understand." And while the man hangs his head, do I hate myself as I know this needs to happen.
"Albus, Snape is stuck in the past, but at the same time, he's only focused on the present in such a way he thinks he isn't being rewarded enough for the few good things he's done and ignores the fact that that's because he's done so much more wrong in return. Yes, I should be grateful for what he did for my son and I am.
But not to the point that I will hero-worship him or believe him a saint who can do no wrong. If he does something good, I'll admit it. If he does something good for my son, I'll thank him. But if he keeps pulling stunts like this, I deserve – like any father or parent – to stand up for my son and his rights not to be abused like this.
That's all I want and that's all I care for. In any other way, Snape's a joke. He doesn't bother me, doesn't get under my skin the way he thinks he does – and yes, I make him believe that, because I think it makes him happy and makes him more willing to cooperate – he and the time I was a teen aren't that important to me.
Why should they be when I have my son to care for?""So does that mean –?" Albus tries, but I already know what he wants and snarl: "Absolutely not. I might not care for the guy, but I also don't trust him not to draw his wand because the truth got under his skin. I won't draw mine unless he draws his, but I won't go wandless either.
I am not going to give that bastard the chance to get what he wants; my son emotionally abused because his father got hurt." And this seems to do the trick, making me think: "Really? The fact that I think of my son first and myself second convinced you? Really?" But I ignore this and just listen as Katie finally reads on.
Malfoy was … for release.
At this Augusta grimaces and she says: "That, I hate to say, is actually against the rules as well. The balls aren't supposed to leave the pitch, unless they are in the crate. And the fact that Harry used that hand to punch Malfoy doesn't make things better, either.""What does that mean? Harry didn't even realize he still had it in there."
Ron says, but Augusta sighs: "Maybe not, but it's better if people think he did. Purposely hitting Malfoy with the hand that has the Snitch in it is one thing. If we don't leave it at that, people will think Harry always hits with his right, which will just feed the rumors saying that he's violent or something. It really is the better option."
"And what's the punishment?" Hermione asks, clearly concerned. "For hitting Malfoy with it? nothing as it was both Self-defense and Defense of the honor of House Potter. For taking the Snitch off the field – if he does that in the future, he will have to sit out the game until the first goal." Which makes the girl sigh relieved as Katie reads on.
They had … the door.
Yet thanks to the last couple of chapters, does this instantly raise my hackles. "Either she's heard what Malfoy said and is just pissed in Lily's defense or over the fact she can't follow their example.""She realized she was tricked and foiled by Snape and feels furious for not noticing sooner." And I finish my friends' thought pattern and say:
"Or she is going to prove her lack of being a Proper Head of House who hears out her students and treats them and any case they may be in with dignity and respect and just judges them on face value." And just by the way that Ron, Hermione and Neville share a concerned look, do I know I have my answer even before Katie reads.
Harry and … Explain yourselves!"
This already has me unimpressed and I say: "I can already hear Snape and his commentary if he heard that one. Never seen such things before? Two on one? How's three or four on one? Not that he'd be in the wrong, though." Yet this really upsets James and he says: "She shouldn't try to right her past through others.
Harry and George were defending themselves as well as House Weasley, Prewet and Potter. If she punishes them, whether she hears them out or not, it won't make the past any better or make her able to atone for her sins. Why can't that woman just know what makes a good Head of House?" And Katie reads on, while grimacing.
"Malfoy provoked … what you've –?"
"Am I the only one getting Year One flashbacks here?" Neville asks and Ron and Hermione shake their heads, but then Katie shudders and says: "I am not going to read that bit. Just reading it to myself gives me shivers of disgust." And already I just know that this whole situation is about to go from bad to worse as she reads on.
Harry and … you ever –"
"Yep, just like First year. Scarily so too." Neville moans and Augusta asks: "How do you mean, Neville?" To which Neville answers: "It's a long story, gran, one that even I don't know all the details of. Just know, we had good intentions, she had – ehm – intentions and they clashed." At which Ron and Hermione nod as Katie reads on.
"Hem, hem … does count.
And instantly I remember what happened last chapter and instantly I sigh and say: "Called it. Minerva should have done that stuff with getting Gryffindor approved by herself. Umbridge sees her as your Second, Albus, so she sees you doing that for Minerva as Power Play." And while Albus grimaces at this, does Katie read on.
Now, where … common teachers!
"Is she even hearing what she herself is saying? That alone proves how crazy big her ego is!" Ron yells, but Alastor says: "Maybe, but it also proves something else. Even if Minerva, in her eyes, wasn't Albus' Second in Command, she was still a target for the woman. Minerva, after all, has not one role, but three of them."
This startles the boy and he says: "Hey, you're right. McGonagall is a teacher, a Head of House and a Deputy Headmistress. She has power and Umbridge wants that. And this, the way she just called McGonagall a common teacher proves it.""Exactly, lad. Well done." Alastor compliments the boy, who turns red as Katie reads on.
And you … Dreadful tempers…
"Tempers you just love to use for your own selfish gains, you evil witch." Beast growls in raging fury, which startles us as he has done nothing, but growl so softly it has become a bit of a background noise, but then Andy says: "Which I will remedy by teaching anyone interested some Occlumency lessons." Which really relieves me.
"Oh!" Luna suddenly gasps and we turn to her as she says: "That – is incredible. I – I didn't think that could be possible." And I notice that the girl is only slightly trying to keep the wind out of her face. Instantly I know something big has happened and Sora asks: "What? What is it?" His voice echoing our anxiety and need for answers.
"The future. It has changed. The chance of it now happening – has become 71% less. And one of the pictures has changed as well." Instantly Lea reaches into his pockets and while I only slightly wonder how he ended up with them, does he look through each of them. And the way his eyes widen proves he found the one.
Instantly we all gather around the man and try to gaze past the others and over his shoulder. I manage to get right behind him and what I see makes tears of both relief, concern and joy spring from my eyes. Harry is still with Ginny in the picture – even if shades of two others are behind them – but there is also something else.
A huge black dog, that is obviously wearing and suffering under some kind of dark magical collar, is lying between the two of them, his tail up in the face of the blasted girl and his head rubbing the chin of the boy, who is obviously trying to, secretly, get the collar off while also drawing comfort and strength from his presence.
"The Heartless are gone. That's a great sign." Sora happily says, but then Ron looks at him shocked and asks: "Are you blind or something? Your dad just entered the picture and you focus on the Heartless?" But Sora proves how deep our bond is as he asks: "What do you think got rid of them? That's why I mentioned it."
At this I want to smile, but I can't. "How is she still there? She's been sent through the Veil, so the picture should have changed and replaced her for someone else. How is she still there?" I think to myself and looking at Lea, I can tell that he too has noticed this. He nods at me and then puts the picture back in his pocket.
"Seen anything new?" Someone asks, startling us and we notice Riku walking over. The fact that Harry isn't with him relieves me and I ask: "Still asleep?" Riku nods and then turns to his grandmother as he says: "There was not a single nightmare and only one platform for me to be on." And everyone gets the message as Katie reads on.
anyway, I … my ban.
Yet at this Augusta smirks and says: "Even the Board overseeing all National and International Games and each respective Board overseeing their own National or International Team doesn't have that right. Another thing that will get Dolores in trouble with the MACUSA if I don't stop her from making this simplistic little mistake."
But while we all snort and snicker to express how great we feel over the fact that she is treating Umbridge no better than the nasty woman treats me son, does Riku not seem amused and ask: "Are we really sinking down to her level?" Ruining everyone's fun and Sora says: "Spoilsport." At which Riku shrugs as Katie reads on.
But I … to do?"
But the look on Belle's face actually makes me feel a touch of hope even as Katie imitates her friend's hollow voice perfectly. "What?" Everyone who cares for Quidditch asks and the woman says: "The ban is on playing Quidditch, right? Not on helping a team play." This doesn't seem to make any sense and the young woman explains:
"Harry doesn't need to be seen playing. If he tells whoever gets picked about his experiences, it will prevent Malfoy and his dumb lackeys from ever winning another game or pulling another one of those tricks. And if he does it right after the picking but long before any potential match or even before a match against a different team."
And Augusta smirks herself as she says: "Then neither he nor the players will be breaking the rule Malfoy broke when he made that song. You, young lady, are one wicked genius." And while everyone cheers for this idea, does Belle then giggle and ask: "Does that mean you want to hear my other idea?" Everyone nods and she says:
"Like I said, the ban is on Quidditch, not on flying. And like Madam Longbottom said, no one has a right to take a flyer his broom. So if someone were to accidentally spot Harry flying in a way that could be considered a Quidditch maneuver and then copy him during the match – it wouldn't be against the rules or the ban."
This actually mind boggles me and the twins voice my thoughts as they chorus: "Remind us to keep you on our side." Making the young woman laugh and I think: "People fear Voldemort? They should fear getting on this brunette's bad side." And while I am beyond glad my son's friends with her, does Katie read on.
It did … at dinner."
"And there is no way Umbridge would use the same illegal quill on him. She probably won't even oversee his detention." Ron growls, but then Hermione says: "I'm not so sure. She could actually use that detention to give him some more advice on how to make Harry's life miserable. He does work for Malfoy, after all."
"Great, so that lot is working together?" Ron asks and Hermione mutters: "Maybe not yet. I have no doubt that sooner or later, Umbridge will try to create something that will give them that chance. For now, I just think they are two parties with the same agenda." Making Ron grumble his displeasure over this as Katie reads on.
"And banning … played yet …"
"I saw one of Harry's thoughts – when I was diving into his Heart, that is. There was actually one point in the reading where he was wishing the same thing." Riku tells us and I ask: "When was that?" And Riku grimaces as he says: "When he saw Luna shake her head at something." I grimace at this as well and Katie reads on.
She was … the pane.
This makes Neville snort and he says: "Harry wants to do that all the time. He's just too noble and loyal to you guys to do so. Though, going by the book he has gotten better at it." And while the two obviously don't like to hear that their arguments are such troubles to their best friend, does it stay at that as Katie reads on.
"Look, drop … "Hagrid's back."
And while this cheers everyone else up, while Katie happily slams the book closed and while James says: "That's it, we're breaking after the next chapter." Making the kids excited as they know it will be about Hagrid, do I turn to Lea. The man has a look in his eyes that proves he is on the same wavelength as me.
He nods at me and as we lock eyes do I feel better about the fact that this young man is meant for my son than I have ever felt since he arrived. "I will find out how Ginny is still in that picture and I will make sure the twins and I replace her in it." But while I read that in his eyes, do I still wonder one important thing. How is she still there?
How IS Ginny still there?
Trust me, I have plans for that. To be honest that has two reasons. One, I keep forgetting from time to time that the girl is dead and add her to the reading bits. I am getting better, but I slipped up even last year, in chapter 28. The other, I keep adding to their crimes, so leaving them only punished once is starting to bother me.
So yeah, Ginny is going to come back. If Molly is too, I am still unsure, but she will make a return. In fact, I already have a plan in mind on how to do that, but you won't get to see it until sometime next year. It won't come to pass until OotP is read and its climax is 100% prevented. I think you can already guess my plan, right?
Have fun,
Venquine1990
