Warning Spoilers, If you haven't read all the books. The following story may contain spoilers.
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, I am only playing in the world created by J.K. Rowling. No money is being made from this story.
This story may also not be suitable for younger readers. You have been warned. Any complaints will be ignored.
Chapter Sixteen
"What's wrong?" Andromeda quickly asked - as she came into the nursery, sounding quite alarmed.
"Apparently Teddy can change a lot more than just his hair and eye colour, Andi," I declared, as I gestured in-between Teddy's legs.
"It would appear that your grandson is now your granddaughter," Harry added.
"Now that's something new," Andromeda reacted, sounding very surprised by this. But she was not nearly as taken aback as I would have thought she'd be.
"Aren't you worried, Andi?" I asked, surprised by her lack of concern.
"Not really. You have to learn to expect these sort of things when raising a child who is a Metamorphmagus. Nymphadora would sometimes change things about herself, and she wouldn't change back to normal till she fell asleep in her crib. I'll start worrying if I put him down for the night and he doesn't revert back to normal when he falls asleep," Andi explained.
"Well! Then I guess it's a good thing that his grandmother has lots of experience with this," Harry remarked.
So I continued to wipe Teddy down and sprinkled a little baby powder as I put on a clean nappy.
"There we go. All better," I cooed, to my cute little godson.
"You know... Now that I look closer, I think he looks a lot like a six-month old version of you, Luna," Harry teased.
"Is Teddy really a little girl, or does he just take on the appearance of one?" I turned and asked Andromeda.
"Well I think if a Mediwitch was to examine Teddy right now, I'd expect she would proclaim him to be a perfectly healthy little girl," she answered.
"So a Metamorphmagus can change themselves that much?" Harry asked, surprised by this.
"The ability varies from simple changes to the more complex. But I'd imagine if Teddy is already able to change himself this much, when he's older there probably won't be anything about himself that he can't change," Andromeda replied, with a thoughtful expression.
"What a truly amazing ability to have," I thought aloud.
"I can see why you might think so - but it can also be a curse. I can remember Nymphadora telling me that she'd never be able to fall in love. Because once any boy she dated found out she was a Metamorphmagus, they would always want her to become someone else and never her true self. I think that's why she fell in love with Remus, because he never wanted anyone but the real Nymphadora." Andromeda said this with a bitter-sweet tone to her voice.
"I'm sorry Andi, I didn't mean to bring up painful memories." I apologized.
She waved her hand dismissively. "What happened, happened. Just about every family lost someone during the war. And some families were wiped out completely. At least I still have my grandson. But the sad fact is there's very little about this house and everything in it that doesn't dredge up painful memories, Luna. Yet I can't bring myself to part with anything in it. It's like a painful wound that never fully heals."
"Would you consider moving in with us at Potter Manor?" Harry asked Andromeda.
"That's where we plan to live after we officially marry and graduate from Hogwarts. We'd love to have you and Teddy there with us. Perhaps a change of scene is exactly what you need for things to finally start to heal, Andi," I added.
"Wouldn't me and Teddy living with you and Harry be a little inconvenient for a newly-wed couple just starting out?" she asked, surprised by our offer.
"Not really. We have lots of room and a couple more House Elves that are just dying to be helpful. Besides, you and Teddy could never be an inconvenience to us, because you're part of our family," Harry stated firmly.
"And even if you lived with us, Andi. It wouldn't mean you'd have to give up your house or anything in it." I continued to press the issue.
"It's a very kind offer, Harry. Perhaps a fresh start is exactly what I need to be able to finally move on. I promise to give the idea some serious thought," Andromeda answered, with a look of relief.
With that subject settled at least for now. Harry and I decided to play with Teddy on the floor of the Nursery, with his blocks and stuffed animals. As I continued to observe Harry with Teddy, I couldn't help thinking what a wonderful father he would make one day. Meanwhile, the more time I spent with Teddy, I began to feel something stir in me that I couldn't quite place. Every time Teddy was in my lap, I felt the overwhelming need to shower him with affection. I would constantly hug and kiss his chubby little cheeks. We continued to play with our godson for what seemed like hours, until Teddy started yawning. Andromeda noticed this from her nearby chair, where she had been reading a book.
"It looks like it's past someone's bedtime. Would you and Harry like to put Teddy down for the night?" Andromeda asked.
"Could we, Andi?" Harry and I asked at the same time.
"Of course you can. After all you are Teddy's godparents," she responded, pleased that we both were taking an interest in Teddy's life.
As Harry and I both got up from the floor and brought Teddy to his crib, Harry pulled back the covers, while I laid him down in the crib. I pulled the covers back over him and positioned a couple of his stuffed animals.
"I love you very much, Teddy. I'm so happy to be your godmother." I said, as I leaned over and kissed his forehead.
"Good night Teddy." Harry said, as he to leaned over and kissed Teddy on the top of his little head.
Apparently we had worn the little guy out, because shortly after putting him down Teddy quickly fell asleep. And just like Andromeda said would probably happen, Teddy's blond hair returned to his normal sandy brown hair. And he no longer looked like a six-month version of me. Which I hoped meant that Teddy was a little boy again.
"I told you he'd change back when he falls asleep. It's the one time that a Metamorphmagus are their true selves," Andromeda declared, as we turned the lights out and left the nursery.
Once out in the living room, I turned to Andromeda.
"Thank you for everything, Andi. I'll do my best to live up to the honour of being Teddy's godmother," I said to the older witch.
"I can see how fond you are of him already. You're a very loving person Luna, I can see why Harry has picked you to be his bride. Be sure to always take care of him," Andromeda replied, as she came over and hugged me goodbye.
"And you look after her, Harry. After all she's your other half," she continued, as she to came over and hugged Harry.
"I will goodnight, Andi. Thanks for having us over tonight. We really enjoyed the visit," Harry declared confidently, as he took my hand in his and gave it a gentle squeeze.
"You're very welcome, Harry. You and Luna can always visit him any time you want. And thank you for the offer to live with you in your home. I'm definitely considering it," Andromeda replied.
"We'll probably be there sometime this weekend, if you want to visit Potter Manor. Are you still on the Floo network?" Harry asked.
"Yes, I'm finally connected to it once again," Andromeda answered.
"Good. Then we just need to add you and Teddy to the list of those who can enter Potter Manor. Or if you're not comfortable Flooing with Teddy to Potter Manor, I could also have Kreacher bring you as well," Harry offered.
"Why don't we wait till then to decide," Andromeda declared.
Harry nodded. "I'll Floo you when we are ready for you. It will probably be sometime Saturday afternoon."
"See you then Harry. Goodbye Luna." Andromeda waved, as Harry and I left.
We then Apparated back to Hogwarts. Then we made our way through the gates and up the path.
"Someone's very happy," Harry observed, smiling at me.
"How could I not be over the moon, Harry? I'm Teddy's godmother. He's still my godson. You can't imagine how happy that makes me! Not being Teddy's godfather was the one remaining thing I regretted about becoming you permanently. It's funny how everything just keeps falling into place. I gain a lot and lose nothing."
"Maybe Fate is finally rewarding you for all that you had to go through as Harry Potter. I personally think you are way overdue for some good karma, Luna," Harry remarked.
"Do you actually believe in such things, Harry?" I asked.
"Well, something certainly seems to be trying to make things right for you. After all you found me - your Soul mate. You became the woman you were always meant to be. And now you were made the godmother of your godson again." Harry continued to count off the positive things that had happened since we switched lives.
"I guess you're right, Harry. Fate, or what ever cosmic force that is at work, certainly seems to be trying to reward me with all the things I would have had if I was born a girl - like I was originally supposed to be. Now that Voldemort is gone." As I spoke, I realised that I had been tilting my head to one side, in thought. I smiled to myself. I was now even beginning to acquiring some of Luna's mannerisms.
"One thing I noticed as I was watching you with Teddy, I kept thinking what a terrific Mum you are going to be some day. You're an absolute natural with children, Luna," Harry pointed out.
"I was kind of thinking the same thing about you earlier, Harry. I'm sure you'll make a wonderful father as well," I responded.
"Well, until we have children of our own, we can practice our parenting skills on Teddy. He sure is a cute little boy, I can see why you love him so much."
We finally made it up to the main doors and proceeded up the stairs till it was time for us to part.
"Goodnight sweetheart. I love you very much." Harry took me in his arms and kissed me goodnight.
"I love you too, Harry," I responded in kind, as I reluctantly turned and headed up the stairs that led up to the Ravenclaw Tower. Once there I approached the statue near the entry as it again asked its question.
"What occurs once in every minute, twice in every moment, yet never in a thousand years?" it asked.
I thought about it for a moment, when it suddenly occurred to me there was one 'M in minute' and two 'Ms in moment' and none in 'a thousand years.' The answer was obvious!
"The letter M," I answered confidently.
"Very good, dear girl," it replied, as the door slid aside.
I walked through the mostly empty common room, then headed up the stairs that led to the girls dormitory. Since we had returned early enough from visiting our godson, all of my dorm mates were still awake in our Seventh year room.
"Hello Luna! What have you been up to this evening?" Su Li asked, greeting me as I entered.
"I went with Harry to visit his godson Teddy, he was such an adorable little boy," I gushed.
"Kind of makes you want one of your own doesn't it?" Padma added, with a knowing smile.
Padma was right, that was exactly how I was feeling with Teddy, I wanted him to be mine. These sort of feelings I guess were normal for most girls. But were new to me since I wasn't born female. I hadn't grew up all my life with the understanding that one day I could have a baby. And the more I thought about it the more I began to realise that I didn't want to have just any ones baby. I only wanted to have Harry's babies.
"I guess it does, Padma," I agreed with her thought. As I tried hard not to turn a lovely shade of pink.
"I heard some of your things were taken this morning, Luna," Padma announced, sounding a bit annoyed.
"I got them back already, everything is fine now, Padma. Thanks for your concern, though," I replied.
"That's good to hear, Luna. But all I have to say is it better not happen again." She looked sternly at Mandy, who had just returned from her first detention with Mister Filch.
"I wouldn't worry about that, Harry is having one of his House Elves keep an eye on my things. I'm not sure what will happen if someone tries to take my things again. But I don't doubt if someone was foolish enough to try that they would soon regret it."
As I started to undress and get ready for bed, Padma ran her fingers through her hair, looking thoughtful. She spoke again.
"Wow! Harry is really serious about you isn't he? Going with him to visit his godson and House Elf protection for your things."
"And let's not forget the most important thing Harry gave you, his old Quidditch jersey to sleep in," Su Li added.
"What can I say? He loves me," I announced happily. I continued to undress getting ready for bed and pulled on the Quidditch jersey.
Padma grinned. "I'd say it's official, Harry Potter is off the market. There are going to be a lot of disappointed witches out there."
It was at this comment that Mandy slammed her trunk closed.
"Got a problem, Mandy?" Padma asked.
"Of course I have a problem with it! How can the great Harry Potter settle for that!" Mandy yelled, as she gestured to me in my sleepwear.
"He's not settling for me, I'm his first choice," I answered firmly.
"But he could do so much better! You're not even from a distinguished family, you're not the prettiest or richest girl in school. Why would he pick YOU!? I never believed or expected him to choose me. But I just can't believe I'd lose to someone like you!" Mandy continued her rant.
"You're delusional, Mandy. After seeing Luna this morning in the Great Hall, I'd say she's definitely in the top five prettiest girls in school," Padma speculated.
"That's why you're a fool, Mandy. Harry doesn't care about those things. Gold? He's got a vault full - but he would trade all of it to have his parents and godfather back. Beauty is fleeting. And as for me not being from a distinguished family - again Mandy, you fail to understand that these are not the things that Harry values most. What he has always wanted more than anything is a loving family of his own. To be loved unconditionally for himself and not put up on a pedestal because he was 'The Boy Who Lived' or 'The Man Who Defeated the Dark Lord'!"
"I refuse to believe he'd pick a brain-damaged girl, who was obviously dropped on her head too many times as a baby by her crazy father. The only explanation is you're using a love potion on him. It's the only thing that makes sense," Mandy screamed at me.
"Mandy stop! You're making her angry again, remember what happened last time!" Lisa cautioned her friend.
"I won't stop until I prove that she's using the love potion on Harry!" Mandy yelled.
"You take that back Mandy! Or so help me you'll regret it!" I screamed in return, as my magical aura flared around me.
"Please Luna, she doesn't really mean it!" Lisa begged.
But it was to late, the die was cast.
"You're not just being childish, Mandy. You're a mean spiteful little bitch!" I angrily retorted.
As there was another brief glow around Mandy. The changes this time were not as obvious as last time. Mandy's ears became pointed and moved higher on her head. She screamed as a tail grew out from under her skirt. The next thing to change was her fingernails they turned black and became more pointed. I realised quickly that Mandy was literally turning into a bitch. The female dog kind of bitch. I panicked and tried to force my magic back under my control before Mandy lost her very humanity. The changes slowed then finally stopped and even reversed a little. But her canine ears, fingernails and tail remained.
Mandy looked at her hands shaking. Then she screamed and ran from the room.
"Well here we go again! Wait here. I'll get Professor Flitwick," Padma announced.
"I'm sorry Lisa." I sighed, ashamed that my temper and magic got away from me again.
"Don't be. What she said was way out of line, Luna. I just don't understand, this isn't the Mandy I've always known!" Lisa rubbed her brow, looking worried. "Things like money and prestige never seemed to matter to her before. I mean, sure she has always been capable of petty stuff like hiding your things. But something has changed in her recently."
"When did you first notice the change in Mandy?" I asked Lisa.
"I'd say about a day or so after you and Harry officially became a couple. I expected her to be disappointed, since she kind of fancied Harry. But her reaction was to vilify you, and say that Harry could do a lot better than you. At first I went along with it, thinking this was how she was dealing with her disappointment. But her behaviour lately has been over the top. It's like she isn't the same person anymore."
It was at this moment that the Headmistress - followed by Professor Flitwick and Mandy - returned to our Dorm room.
"Explain," the Headmistress demanded.
Several girls tried to speak at once. Padma, Su Li - and even Lisa - tried to defend me. They offered copies of their memories to show what happened.
"I want her expelled!" Mandy demanded in a rage.
"Professor!" I raised my hand, in an attempt to get the attention of the Headmistress.
"Quiet!" Professor McGonagall commanded.
"I think there is more going on here than just Mandy's usual idiocy. I think you should call Madame Pomfrey. Mandy might be under some kind of mind or personality-altering spell," I suggested.
"What makes you so sure, Miss Lovegood?" the Headmistress asked.
"According to Lisa, Mandy's behaviour has been very strange - and not at all like the Mandy she has always known. Even I don't believe that Mandy was dumb enough to have done some of the things she has recently, without some outside influence," I explained to Professor McGonagall.
"There's nothing wrong with me, except the things she's done to me!" Mandy continued to scream.
Professor McGonagall seemed to agree with me, because she immediately summoned a House Elf.
"Tippy," The Headmistress called.
"Yes, Headmistress?" the little Elf asked, as she popped into our dorm.
"Can you tell Madame Pomfrey to come to the Ravenclaw seventh year girls dorm. I need her to examine a student."
"Right away, Headmistress," the little Elf announced, as she quickly popped away.
"Why are you listening to her!? I'm the victim once again! She's dangerous and should be removed from the school. Otherwise, I'll have my father complain to the Board of Governors!" Mandy continued to rant.
"With your permission, Headmistress?" I asked as I tilted my head and eyes toward Mandy.
"Please do," Professor McGonagall agreed.
So I cast a silent stunner spell at Mandy and levitated her over to her bed before she even hit the ground. Shortly afterwards, Madame Pomfrey arrived.
"What's the emergency, Minerva?" Madame Pomfrey asked.
"We have reason to believe that Miss Brocklehurst may be under some sort of mind-altering control spell, Poppy. Could you cast a quick diagnostic spell to check for any possibilities?" the Headmistress asked her.
Madame Pomfrey walked over to Mandy's bed and began to examine her. She cast several different diagnostic spells, until she got a positive reading on one. Madame Pomfrey suddenly turned white as a ghost.
"What did you find, Poppy?" Professor McGonagall asked, concerned.
"The poor girl is under a very dark spell, that can't be cured, Minerva. It will wear off eventually - but the effects can become permanent if it's cast on a person enough times. Whoever has done this would have to recast it on Miss Brocklehurst daily to keep the effects going on her," Madame Pomfrey declared.
Professor McGonagall's face turned paler. "How long has she been under the spell, and what does the spell do, Poppy?"
"About ten days so far, Minerva. The spell is a lesser form of the Imperious curse. It is also used to alter personalities, and amplify certain thoughts or feelings to the level of an obsession."
"So basically you can't cure Mandy - and the effects have to wear off by themselves. Yet whoever did it has to cast it again on a daily basis to keep the effect going?" I asked Madam Pomfrey.
"Unfortunately that's all correct, Miss Lovegood." The Mediwitch verified.
"Then we'll have to catch them in the act, when whoever it is recasts the spell on Mandy tomorrow."
"My goodness! How do you plan on catching them? When you don't know when and where the person recasts the curse?" Professor McGonagall asked me.
"It has to be done when Mandy is alone, since Lisa is almost always with Mandy. It will be at a time that they are not together. Think hard Lisa! Has there been a time that Mandy has left you alone repeatedly?" I turned to ask her.
"Now that you mention it, every morning on the way to breakfast. Mandy always forgets something back in our dorm, and has to go back and get it. Sometimes it's a book for a class or a homework assignment that's due. But she insists I go on to breakfast without her and that she'll meet me in the Great Hall. It usually delays her for 15 to 20 minutes. I did think it was a little strange. Mandy's never been particularly forgetful. It got so bad that I'd ask her if she had everything before we left the tower. But it never fails, she always forgets something and needs to return to get it alone!" Lisa confirmed.
"I would have guessed it happens in the morning before classes, I'd say this confirms it. Madam Pomfrey, does this curse allow the caster to give the victim a post-curse suggestion?" I asked.
The school nurse nodded. "The whole spell pretty much works like that, Miss Lovegood. The spell is cast and alterations are made or suggested to the victim. Commanding them to return to a specific place or time would be a simple matter."
"Well then. We have the time, but we still need the place. I would guess an empty classroom somewhere between the Ravenclaw tower and the Great Hall would be a safe bet. I'll have to follow Mandy and Lisa tomorrow morning, to find out who and where the curse is recast," I explained my plan.
"But how can you follow without being seen by them?" Professor McGonagall asked.
"I'll ask Harry if I can borrow his invisibility cloak," I answered.
"But how can you ask him for his cloak this time of night, dressed like that?" The Headmistress sceptically raised an eyebrow.
"There are other ways of solving that problem," I explained.
"Kreacher!" I yelled out.
"You called, mistress?" he asked, as he appeared with a pop. And a few surprised screams from my other room-mates.
"I need you to go to Harry, and tell him I need his cloak and the map. It's an emergency," I requested of the old Elf.
"Right away, mistress," Kreacher answered as he quickly popped away.
"Why did Harry's Elf call you his mistress?" Professor McGonagall asked, surprised by the Elf's manner of address.
"Would you believe Harry commanded his Elf to obey me, as if I was his mistress?" I asked hopefully.
"You and I both know, House Elf's magic doesn't allow it to work like that." The Headmistress gave me a look that said try again.
"All right, there's more to the story - but now really isn't the time or place to discuss this, Professor. All I'll say is it has something to do with the other matter we discussed with you a few days ago in private." I hinted at our conversation about our Animagus forms.
"Very well, I look forward to hearing you and Harry's explanation after this situation is resolved." She gave me a stern look that made it clear that the matter wasn't over. Then she addressed my room- mates.
"And I expect you ladies to keep this to yourselves - out of respect for Harry and Luna's privacy."
I'm sure they were already speculating about what it all meant. I wouldn't be surprised if they all think Harry and I eloped while off school grounds.
By this time Kreacher had returned with the cloak and map.
"Mistress, here are the items you requested. Master Harry was quite concerned about the emergency, and has asked for mistress to give more details."
"Tell him Mandy's horrible behaviour lately is because she has been under a very awful dark spell. I intend to use these to catch the culprit who did this to her, tomorrow morning," I explained to our Elf, as I gestured to the cloak and map.
"Thank you, mistress Luna." Kreacher nodded and then disappeared with a pop.
I turned to Lisa. "I'll need you to act normal in the morning, when Mandy and you go to breakfast. Don't follow her when she goes back to get whatever was left behind. I'll make sure to protect Mandy from any more harm. But, above all, Mandy can't know about any of this," I announced, as I tried to reassure Lisa.
"How do you expect to get Mandy to behave normally tomorrow?" Professor McGonagall asked.
"The Headmistress is right. Mandy is going to have a fit once she is woke up," Padma pointed out.
"That's easy. Let her think she's getting what she wants. Tell her there will be a hearing tomorrow, where I'll probably be expelled," I suggested.
"Very well, Miss Lovegood. Cast the spell to wake Miss Brocklehurst up," the Headmistress requested.
I performed a quick flick and a swish with my wand. "Ennervate!"
Mandy quickly regained consciousness, and promptly started screaming again.
"Did you see that? She attacked me again in front of witnesses!" she yelled.
"Yes, yes, Miss Brocklehurst. It will all be settled tomorrow at the hearing to expel Miss Lovegood. Now, all of you to bed! We'll settle this in the morning after breakfast," the Headmistress ordered.
So I walked over to my bed, trying to play the part of the condemned criminal. I closed the curtains around my bed, and put the map and cloak under my pillow. I could hear the Professors and Madame Pomfrey leave, as Mandy continued to go on endlessly about me being expelled and having my wand snapped. I cast a silencing and impenetrable spell on the curtains around my bed. Settling down for the night, I was almost asleep when Kreacher dropped Harry on to my bed, then quickly popped away.
"Harry! What are you doing here?" I asked, surprised by Harry's sudden appearance.
"Well. Surely you didn't expect me to wait patiently back in the Gryffindor Tower, while you put yourself in danger yet again! You wouldn't let me get away with that, would you?" Harry asked incredulously.
"No. I suppose I wouldn't allow you to take a risk without me being there to watch your back," I answered him.
"What exactly is going on, Luna?" Harry asked.
So I took a few moments to recap what had happened tonight and how it explained Mandy's behaviour lately. As well as how I planned to catch whoever had done it to her tomorrow morning.
"I see... All right, we'll keep on with your plan. But with one change. I'm coming with you, Luna! I can't take the chance that someone might harm a hair on my future bride's head," Harry said firmly.
"You know Harry, I'm more than capable of taking care of myself," I pointed out to him.
"I know you can sweetheart. Just humour me will you? I'd feel a lot better being there - just in case I'm needed, Luna," Harry pleaded.
"Oh all right, Harry," I reluctantly agreed. "So I take it you're planning on sleeping here with me tonight?" I asked him.
"It might be a little tight, but that's the general idea. That way we'll both be ready to go in the morning under the cloak," Harry explained his thinking.
So I pulled the covers over so Harry could get under them as well. I then rolled over on my side, as Harry moved in behind spooning me. He then wrapped his arms around me and held me close.
I sighed contently as I slept happily in Harry's arms that night.
I awoke the next morning to Harry saying: "Rise and shine sleepyhead. We need to get up if you plan on catching whoever put the spell on Mandy."
I poked my head out between the curtains to see who was awake and in the dorm, whilst being very careful not to reveal that Harry was in my bed as well. I saw Padma and Su Li awake and dressed.
"Where's Mandy and Lisa?" I asked Padma and Su Li.
"They're still in the showers. But I'd expect them to be finished in about another ten minutes," Padma quickly answered.
"You better hurry, Luna," Su Li added.
So I got up keeping the curtains closed on the side facing my dorm-mates. And quickly pulled on a pair of jeans from my trunk as well as my pair of trainers. While Harry transfigured his socks into a pair of shoes. I then pulled out the map and cloak, handing the map to Harry. That was when Mandy and Lisa returned with their bathroom things.
"Not wearing your uniform again?" Mandy asked with her normal snotty attitude.
"What difference does it make if I'm going to be expelled today," I replied airily, keeping my expression guarded.
"At least justice will finally be served! Come on Lisa. Let's get some breakfast," Mandy said, as she and Lisa turned and left the dorm.
I gave a quick nod to Padma and Su Li as I went behind my bed where Harry was waiting ready with the map and cloak. He then quickly covered us with the cloak as we followed Mandy and Lisa down the stairs and through the common room. We had just caught up to Mandy and Lisa as they made to leave through the entrance. The two of us shadowed them down the hall till they were halfway to the Great Hall.
When Mandy turned to Lisa and said, "Merlin! I forgot my Herbology essay that's due today! You go on. I'll catch up with you later in the Great Hall."
"Okay Mandy, I'll see you there," Lisa said reluctantly. Then she turned and continued on.
Mandy then doubled back the way she came from, and made her way to an unused classroom.
Harry whispered to me. "According to the Marauders map, there are four girls in the classroom ahead."
"Okay Harry. Just like we planned, we followed Mandy in and try to find out what their motivation is. But the moment they try to cast the spell on Mandy you cast a Protego shield spell to protect her. Then I'll quickly stun whoever is the greatest danger to us," I said as we followed Mandy inside.
"So good of you to join us, Mandy." A Slytherin girl I didn't know spoke.
"What happened to you?" an unknown Hufflepuff girl asked as she noticed Mandy's ears and tail.
"I got cursed again by Loony Lovegood! But because of it she's going to be expelled today," Mandy answered, with a hazy eyed look.
"Excellent! That should put an end to her and Harry Potter's relationship," declared a fifth year girl from Ravenclaw.
"Let's just get this over with. It sounds like we are finally going to get what we want. Lovegood will be ruined and her relationship with Harry Potter destroyed." This came from a sixth year Gryffindor girl that I vaguely recognized from my time there.
The Sorting Hat had always said that all Houses should work together for the good of the school. Somehow I didn't think this scene was what it had in mind.
"So Mandy. Are you ready for your next treatment?" The Slytherin girl asked.
"No! Please don't," Mandy begged weakly.
"It looks like it's starting to wear off. You better cast it quickly!" The fifth year Ravenclaw said in a panic.
"All right. If you insist," the Slytherin girl responded, as she pulled out her wand and prepared to cast the curse on Mandy.
That was when we finally acted against them. Harry quickly cast a Protego spell to defend Mandy from the curse, whilst I quickly cast a stunner at the Slytherin girl. She dropped like a stone. Next, I followed up with two more stunner spells - getting the drop on the Hufflepuff and Gryffindor girls. That was when the Ravenclaw girl caught me off guard and cast a Stupefy at me. She would have got me if Harry hadn't countered with another Protego, followed quickly by an Expelliamus. That last spell disarmed the Ravenclaw girl - throwing her against the wall, and knocking her out. Apparently, Harry put a little more magic into that final spell.
"Thanks Harry! I thought for sure she had me there," I breathed, recovering my breath.
"Oh I don't doubt that she would have got you, Luna. Still think you should have done this by yourself?" Harry asked.
"No, you were right as usual, Harry," I replied. That answer seemed to satisfy him for now.
"Remember, Luna. We're stronger together than when we are apart," Harry declared.
I heard a sudden whimper from Mandy as she started to sway. I quickly made my way over to her. Just as her legs gave out, I caught her and cradled her head in my lap.
"Mandy! Are you all right?" I asked.
"I don't feel well." She continued to whimper.
"The spell must be wearing off, Luna. We need to get her help. Kreacher!" Harry called our Elf.
"Yes, master Harry?" our elf asked.
"Get Madame Pomfrey and bring her here, please," Harry asked Kreacher.
"Yes master. Kreacher obeys." He quickly popped away.
"Stay with me Mandy," I said to my most troubling room-mate.
"I'm so sorry, Luna! I've wanted to apologise for sometime now - but I just couldn't do it." She looked at me, her eyes glistening with the onset of tears.
"It's all right, it wasn't your fault. You were being used, I know now that you didn't mean it. There's really nothing to forgive, Mandy. You'll be all right now, just hang in there a little longer. Help is on the way," I pleaded with her.
Mandy started to glow. The curses on her were breaking, Mandy's ears and fingernails returned to normal. And her tail vanished, as she started to return again to her original 17 year old form.
It was at this point that Madame Pomfrey arrived with Professor McGonagall and quickly started sorting things out. Harry gathered up all the girls' wands, while Madame Pomfrey examined Mandy in my lap.
"She's going to be fine - she's just passed out. The spell seems to be wearing off. She might need to spend a day or two in the Hospital wing but she'll make a full recovery," the school nurse assured me.
It turned out that all four of the girls were mostly fifth years as well as one from each House. Ellen Whitshire from Hufflepuff, Brook Mayfield from Ravenclaw, Amanda Thickness from Slytherin and Romilda Vane from Gryffindor.
As it turned out, each girl had their own reason for being involved. Amanda Thickness wanted revenge against Harry Potter for her father being sentenced to Azkaban. But to be part of this conspiracy, she had convinced the others that she also wanted to break me and Harry up. Whilst the rest of them wanted Mandy to provoke me into doing something to cause me to be expelled or imprisoned. Basically, whatever it took to get me out of the picture. They didn't know just how close they came to succeeding with their plan. If I hadn't managed to stop myself, Mandy would have been transformed completely into a female dog. And no matter how much she might want to apologise to me to break the curse, barking an apology probably wouldn't have worked. Then there was the matter of how guilty I would have felt doing that to her, when she was even more of a victim than I was.
It was still hard for me to believe that there were girls that were so unhappy about Harry and I being together, that they would actually go so far as using dark spells on a fellow student, just to break us up.
Needless to say, all four girls where promptly expelled and turned over to the Aurors - then charged with multiple counts of using a dark spell on a fellow student. They would all remain in the custody of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement until their trials. I was happy that we caught them and were able to help free Mandy from their influence. Now that it was all over, I hoped that I would be able to get along better with her.
Once Harry and I gave our statements to the Aurors, we were allowed to return to our dorms to get ready for the day. If we hurried we might be able to grab a quick bite to eat before heading to our first class of the day.
After all the excitement from this morning was finally over, the rest of day proceeded normally - with Herbology first, then our regular Charms class. Charms was nearly over, when a House Elf appeared with a pop next to Professor Flitwick and handed him a note. He took a moment to read it, before telling Harry and I were to report to the Headmistress's office during our free period. After Professor Flitwick gave us our homework assignment he promptly dismissed Charms class for the day. Then Harry and I made our way to the Headmistress's office. When we arrived at the Gargoyle statue, we gave the password to it that Professor Flitwick told us: 'whiskers'. I was beginning to see a pattern with Professor McGonagall's passwords. I thought it was funny that she chose cat-related things as her passwords - while Professor Dumbledore was always partial to various confectionery treats as his passwords.
The gargoyle jumped out of the way as we proceeded to climb the stairs that led to the Headmistress's office door. Harry gave it a quick knock. A familiar voice inside said, "Enter." so we did.
"I'll be right with you. Have a seat." Professor McGonagall continued to finish what she was working on, then set it aside and gave us her full attention.
"Mr. Potter. Miss Lovegood. I wanted to thank you both for helping resolve this morning's unfortunate events. There will be a special merit award to you both for services rendered to the school," Professor McGonagall began. "I sometimes forget, Harry, that you are also a public figure in our world. Which means that everything you do can sometimes have repercussions well beyond anything you or I could possibly imagine - whether you like it or not. And because of that, I failed to see how your growing relationship with Miss Lovegood could result in anything more than a few disappointed witches. I just never could believe that some would be so dissatisfied that they would resort to using Dark spells on another student - in the foolish belief that by destroying Miss Lovegood, they would effectively end your relationship with her. It saddens me greatly that four girls have ruined their futures, with a petty act of jealousy."
"I wouldn't let it bother you too much, Professor. Because we really didn't see it as a real possibility either," Harry offered.
"In a way, it was a brilliant idea using Mandy - rather than acting directly themselves. Mandy was so obnoxious at times, that it was difficult to see how someone else might be involved. Their mistake was going too far and having Mandy do things that even she wasn't foolish enough to do without some outside influence. The sad truth is that their plan almost worked. I almost did something to Mandy, that I know I would have never been able to forgive myself for. Had I allowed my anger at her to prevail against her, I could have been the one awaiting trial," I declared, feeling ashamed that my magic had once again got away from me.
"According to Professor Flitwick, you've always been saint-like in your ability to restrain yourself. What has caused this change in you, my dear?" Professor McGonagall asked.
"I guess my relationship with Harry is what has changed, Professor. I love him and want to protect what we have together. In the past people could say and think what they wanted about me. Their comments didn't bother me because they came from people whose opinions I didn't value. But the moment they bring Harry into their problem with me, they cross a line that I find difficult to ignore. Harry has sacrificed so much for the magical world, that I refuse to allow others to tear him down, just because he willing chooses to be with me."
"Well said, Miss Lovegood. And what do you think about all of this, Mr. Potter?" Our Headmistress asked.
"Only that I'm very lucky to have Luna - and with every passing day, my love for her continues to grow and grow. And that hopefully someday soon she'll consent to be my wife, so we can have a family of our own and grow old together. It's all I've ever wanted and I can see that future with her," Harry answered with total conviction.
"Based on how your House Elf addresses her, I had thought she had already given her consent to marry you, Harry. In fact I was beginning to think you had already made that commitment to each other in one of your many trips off school grounds lately. I wouldn't be surprised if your dorm-mates are thinking along those same lines, since they're all in Ravenclaw. In fact I was so sure, that I checked the book that contains the names of all students that currently attend Hogwarts. It magically updates, so if there had been a change in Miss Lovegood's marital status it would have shown her to be Luna Potter. But much to my surprise it still showed her to be Luna Lovegood. So I ask again how is it possible for your Elf to refer to Miss Lovegood as his mistress, if you are not married?" Professor McGonagall asked, giving us a steely look.
"Quite the mystery, isn't it, Professor? Just like the mystery about how Luna and I also share each others Animagus forms. Well, if Luna and I hadn't made a trip to Gringotts last week, we would still be in the dark about that as well. Because as it turns out the answer is the same for both questions," Harry stated simply, as he turned to me for permission to reveal that we were soul-mates to our favourite Professor. I gave a quick nod of agreement.
The Headmistress looked on - noting our silent exchange with continued interest.
"Imagine our surprise when we met with Director Ragnok who handles the Potter and Black family accounts. When he addressed us as Mr. and Mrs. Potter," Harry announced to Professor McGonagall.
"But that would only be possible if you were both...," the Headmistress trailed off, as her eyes grew large with shock. And our normally unflappable Professor was momentarily struck speechless.
"Exactly Professor. Director Ragnok had assumed that the fact that we are soul-mates was the very reason for our visit. I had never known this about Goblins - but apparently they have the ability to recognize such connections in their customers," Harry explained. "Which I suppose is quite handy, because as Director Ragnok pointed out, it changes our relationship as far as how Gringotts views Luna and I. As far as the bank is concerned, we are already married to each other. Ragnok even told us if we filed certain papers and paid the fee, we would also be considered married in the Wizarding World."
"Do you intend to make your union official? If so, it would also change your status here at Hogwarts. Since there are special accommodations for married students, such things are not very common these days. But back in my time as a student it wasn't unusual for students to marry before graduating. Such lodging is still available," Professor McGonagall offered.
I immediately thought of the previous night I spent in Harry's arms. Being able to do that every night was very tempting. But to make our marriage official, it would mean going public about our being soul mates. And that was something I'd rather not do at this point. I could already see the headlines in the Daily Prophet: HARRY POTTER MARRIES HIS SOUL MATE - LUNA LOVEGOOD!
"It's very tempting, Professor. But I think Harry and I would prefer to avoid all the attention this would cause. Both here at school and in the Wizarding World. I really think it would be best to keep this quiet for now. Don't you agree, Harry?" I asked.
"I certainly want everyone to know that you're mine, Luna. But I would rather keep this a secret - like our Magical Animagus forms - at least till we graduate," Harry agreed. "When it does finally come out, we can then hide from all the attention at Potter Manor.".
"It's really a shame. Being married would allow you to join your husband in his House. You could be a real Gryffindor instead of an honorary one. But if you're both sure...?" the Headmistress asked.
"Nothing would make me happier than to be in the same House as Harry, Professor," I answered. "In fact, if I had known my future husband would be in Gryffindor, I would have insisted the sorting hat put me there instead of Ravenclaw. But for now I think it's best I stay where I am."
"I don't think I've seen a couple that clearly belonged together - or were more in love - since your parents final year, Harry. You may look like your father and share his ability to get into trouble, but your caring heart and personality are closer to your mothers," Professor McGonagall declared.
"I wish I could have been allowed to know them as well as you did," Harry replied solemnly.
"I was always very fond of them both. They were truly two of the best our world had to offer. So it's no surprise that their only son would be destined to save that same world. It's always those rare special individuals who are taken from us far too soon," the Headmistress announced sadly.
I couldn't help feeling that she was referring to someone else rather than just my parents. Was it a lost love from her distant past? Was there someone she was promised to, only to lose him in a previous war? I had wondered why such a great lady had never married.
"Enough of sad things... How have you been progressing with your Animagus training?" Professor McGonagall suddenly changed the subject.
"Well, we had been studying the various methods, getting ready to start the traditional one. When we found my father's journal in the Potter family vault, we found it had an unconventional method that he used to teach my Mum to become an Animagus," Harry told her.
"Really? Lily learned to be an Animagus? What was her form?" Professor McGonagall asked excitedly.
"According to my Dad's journal, she was a falcon as well a doe," Harry replied.
"Two forms - and the second was a doe. Good heavens - she also shared your father's form as well!" our Headmistress exclaimed.
"Yes, apparently we take after them in more ways than one," I answered.
"Amazing... How does this alternative method differ from the traditional one?" she questioned us.
"It involves making and taking a potion that will transform you into your animal form for 24 hours. We already did that part this last weekend," Harry answered.
"You already spent 24 hours in one of your animal forms... My word... Do you know how dangerous that was!? The first complete transformation is the most dangerous part of your Animagus training. Because it is the one time you are in the most danger of getting stuck permanently in your animal form. Unless you spend a lot of time meditating and fortifying your human self image. Attempting a complete transformation is just too risky." Professor McGonagall momentarily took off her spectacles and rubbed her eyes, in her agitation.
"We know Professor. My father's notes in his journal explained all the potential problems using this method. He also listed several techniques to help prevent that from happening. They obviously worked for us and my Mum since we were all able to return to our human forms," Harry explained.
"But what did being in one of your animal forms for 24 hours help accomplish towards your Animagus training?" Professor McGonagall asked.
"It helped in several ways. The first of which was to give us experience being in our animal form. Then in the final hour a special memory Charm is cast on us, giving us perfect recall on what it was like to be in our animal form - even after we returned to our human forms. It worked because I can still remember exactly what it was like to be a Unicorn," I explained to her. "We just need to practice wandlessly transforming our bodies into our Unicorn forms. Unfortunately, so far, that's not something we've had much time to practice yet."
"By using this method, we should be able to master the Animagus transformation much quicker than using the traditional technique. According to my dad's journal, my Mum was able to master both forms in a little more than six months," Harry stated the results.
"But that's impossible! Even the most talented Animagus is barely able to master their form in less than three years," the Headmistress declared, sceptically.
"That's because the traditional method actually works against your ability to complete the transformation sooner. While it's true that meditating and fortifying your self image helps prevent getting stuck in your animal form - that stronger self-image also makes it more difficult to eventually complete the change. It adds years to the time it takes to master the transformation. It makes sense if you think about it logically," I explained to our Transfiguration Professor.
"All right then... Let the results speak for themselves. Using the traditional method, it took months before I was able to get even a minor result of changing a fingernail into a claw. Pick something from your Unicorn form ,and try to change it on your human form," the Headmistress challenged me.
"Okay, Professor. I'll give it a try," I responded, as I recalled my Unicorn form in very precise detail. Then I focused on my ears.
I summoned my magic wandlessly, willing my ears to change into their Unicorn equivalents. I felt a slight tingling sensation in my ears as they became more pointed and gradually moved up higher on my head. When the transformation was complete I had two perfectly formed Unicorn ears, covered with the same silky white fur I had when in my Unicorn form. I quickly noticed the shocked look on both Harry and Professor McGonagall's faces. I quickly conjured a mirror to see the results for myself. I thought looked rather cute with Unicorn ears.
"Well Professor, I'd say the results are quite impressive for a first attempt. Wouldn't you agree?" I asked.
"They are indeed, if this is any indication you may very well be able to master the transformation in as little as three months. Very impressive, Miss Lovegood. Twenty points to Ravenclaw." She awarded me for my successful transformation.
"Thank you, Professor," I replied, smiling.
"Now, can you change them back to normal?" she asked.
"I'll try," I said, as I again concentrated on my human form's ears and willed my magic to wandlessly transform them back to normal. With another slight tingling sensation, my ears successfully morphed back into their original human forms.
"Excellent! I'd recommend trying to change various body parts separately, until you are satisfied - before attempting a full body transformation. It's best to start with the basics: hands and feet to hooves; arms and legs to front and back legs; then tail and torso. Finally finishing with your head. Later on, you can attempt a complete transformation," Professor McGonagall suggested. "But never attempt it alone! Make sure someone who knows the Animagus reversal spell is always present, in case you get stuck."
"We will. Thank you, Professor," Harry and I answered.
"I believe that covers all the subjects I planned to discuss with you both. Now run along to lunch. And remember my door is always open to you, should you need advice about anything," Professor McGonagall offered.
"We'll keep that in mind, Professor. Thank you for everything you've done for us," I called out, as we turned and left the Headmistress's office and started making our way down to the Great Hall for lunch.
(To be continued)
Beta reader / Proof reader / Helpful edits gratefully provided by Ravenclaw Midnight Blue!
I am very grateful for the time and help RMB has offered, this story is far better because of it!
And if you're looking for a very good Harry and Luna story, check out Ravenclaw Midnight Blues - The Lycanthrope Legacy. I highly recommend it! ^_^