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 20
By the time everything was dealt with over the attack on Hogsmeade, it was too late to go to Potter Manor. So Harry and I decided that we would leave sometime after breakfast tomorrow, since the main purpose of our day trip was to visit Andi and Teddy, to find out how they were settling in at Potter Manor. This led to Ron and Hermione deciding to give this weekends trip to the Manor a pass - choosing instead to stay at Hogwarts and work on their Animagus transformations here in the Room of Requirement.
Harry also made another offer to Ginny and Neville to visit Potter Manor with us. But unfortunately they both had previous commitments. Ginny was going home to spend some time with her parents, before they would all be attending a dinner party later that evening at Longbottom Manor. Neville had also been instructed to return home by his Grandmother in preparation for those very festivities. So it would just be me and Harry visiting today. I was rather looking forward to it. I hoped this would allow Harry and I to have a few moments alone. I envisioned the two of us taking a romantic walk through the gardens.
It was at this point that the daily mail arrived with a flurry of owls and the delivery of that day's Daily Prophet. Not surprisingly the morning issue of the magical paper had all sorts of news about the Dementor attack on Hogsmeade. A story and picture on the front page was all about our heroic efforts to fight off the attack on the sleepy Wizarding village. The article also revealed that we had somehow discovered a way to destroy several of the awful creatures that were involved in the attack. Below the fold was yet another story about the captured Death Eater who had used a stolen relic from the Department of Mysteries to cause the the whole episode. Inside the paper was a story about how several of the victims of the attack who were kissed had miraculously reawakened. In later issues of the Daily Prophet there would be story after story of other victims from the previous war that had also awakened after several months or years of being in a state of living death. The speculation was that somehow the death of a few Dementors during the attack on Hogsmeade was the reason for this miracle. That led to the editorial staff of the Daily Prophet to call on the Ministry of Magic to eliminate the rest of the terrible creatures. The hope was that by doing away with the rest of the Dementors it would revive more victims from their comatose state.
I for one wholeheartedly agreed with this sentiment. I hated the evil things, and wouldn't hesitate to kill any in the future that were unfortunate enough to cross my path.
As one would expect after what happened that day and with all the stories in the paper, we were all getting a lot of attention from our fellow students the following day. Of course Harry was getting the lion share of it, as usual. But the fact that the rest of us were also involved was not being overlooked, thanks to the front page picture of all of us in the Daily Prophet. Hopefully, things would return to normal in a day or two. Until then, a couple of days back in the kitchens would seem in order.
Eventually, we finished our breakfast and split up - going our separate ways. Harry and I made our way out the front doors and down into the courtyard as quickly as possible. There we used our family ring Portkeys to transport us to Potter Manor. Once we arrived Harry and I were greeted by the Elder Potters from their painting over the fireplace. Our two Elves showed up soon after to ask.
"Master Harry. Mistress Luna. How may we serve you?" Magnus and Corin happily exclaimed.
"Do you know where Andromeda and Teddy are?" Harry asked.
"Oh yes. I believe Mrs. Tonks has just put Teddy down for a nap. She is in the upstairs study," Corin answered.
"Thank you Corin, we'll just pop up and let her know we are here," I said to our female Elf.
"If you needs anything else just calls us," Magnus offered.
With that settled they popped away to continue on with their many appointed tasks, whilst we made our way upstairs to find Andi. The upstairs study was through a door just past Andromeda and Teddy's room. I didn't recall ever being in this part of the Manor before. Andromeda immediately noticed our arrival as she turned to greet us.
"Well, hello Harry and Luna! Teddy will be pleased to see you both when he wakes up from his nap. If I had know this was when you'd show up, I would have tried to delay his late morning nap a bit. I'm sorry, but he usually gets a bit fussy if I don't put him down about now," she apologized.
"Not to worry Andi. We plan on being around most of the day and perhaps as late as dinner tonight. So we'll have plenty of time to visit with him," Harry explained.
"I'd rather we stayed here for dinner Harry. With all the excitement in Hogsmeade yesterday it feels like we're back in the fish bowl again," I declared, frustrated at all the attention we were getting that morning.
"I heard all about it when I read this mornings Daily Prophet. My word! Did you really manage to destroy several of the Dementors?" Andromeda asked.
"Yes it's true Andi. We would have destroyed all of the foul things, if they hadn't fled when they realised that we found a way to actually kill them," I spat bitterly.
"But how on earth did you do it?" she asked. "From everything I've ever been told about the subject, it was impossible to kill one."
"Well I guess until yesterday that was all very true, at least till we accidentally stumbled on a way to do it. We had been moving down the High street with our friends. Using our Patronuses to repel or drive away the Dementors that were attacking the visiting students and villagers. When we eventually came upon a little girl that had just been kissed by a Dementor. The sight of one so young being struck down by one of those foul creatures proved too much for all of us. But Luna took it much harder and flew into a rage sending her Patronuses after the one responsible," Harry explained.
Andromeda looked surprised when Harry had said Luna's Patronuses. But chose not to interrupt at this point in the story.
"Can you blame me? I didn't want to just drive it away, I wanted it to suffer for harming that poor little girl," I spat thinking of what happened to her.
I went on to give my account of the story, explaining what happened when both Harry's and my Patronuses converged on that first Dementor we destroyed - before our group went on to eliminate as many of the Dementors that we could trap.
"So prolonged exposure to a Patronus can prove fatal to a Dementor?" Andromeda asked.
"We think extended exposure to any Patronus will eventually destroy them. The problem is trapping one long enough to have that effect, since Dementors usually flee from the stronger ones. We were lucky to have enough Patronuses that when we focused several of them on one, they had nowhere to escape," Harry answered Andromeda's question.
"Yes I noticed the part where you said that you and Luna both have more than one Patronus. But I've never heard of anyone that could summon more than one of them," Andromeda said.
"We think it has to do with the fact that we're soul-mates. For some reason the bond is particularly strong between us. Which becomes obvious if you see them." I offered, not really wanting to explain how we switched places and gained our enhanced magical abilities.
With Andromeda expressing her wish to see our Patronuses, Harry conjured his up. First he summoned 'Prongs', then my mothers doe 'Grace', and finally my Animagus form that Harry had apparently named 'Moonlight'. I smiled at the name Harry had chosen for her approvingly.
With the arrival of each of them in turn Andromeda grew more and more amazed. Harry finally dismissed the last one.
I then did the same as I too summoned each Patronus by name. Like Harry I called 'Prongs' first, next was my Mum's doe 'Grace', then finally Harry's Animagus form, 'Midnight'. Harry also seemed to like the name as he gave me a brief nod of approval.
I thought about my Unicorn form, the name Moonlight fitted her quite nicely. Moonlight and Midnight - two things that forever belong together.
"What does it mean that they are gold instead of the usual silver ones?" Andromeda asked.
"We think that it somehow means that mine and Harry's Patronuses are a bit more potent than most. Perhaps the happy thoughts we use to fuel them and our love for each other kind of supercharges them," I mused, trying to explain the significance of their golden colour.
"But how can you both summon the same stag and doe?" Andromeda put to us.
"We're not exactly sure why we can, other than the fact that we are soul mates. Making us two halves of the same soul, maybe that allows us to share Patronuses," Harry shrugged. He obviously did not want to explain that the stag and doe were the manifestation of James and Lily's Animagus forms. Such additional information would only make it seem even stranger that I could summon them as well. And I certainly didn't want to explain to Andi at this point that I used to be Harry Potter.
Andromeda seem to sense we were holding back something but thankfully she chose not to push the issue.
"Well, never mind our Patronuses and all the fuss in Hogsmeade yesterday, Andi. How are you and Teddy settling in here at Potter Manor?" I asked, wanting to change the subject.
"Oh, we're doing just fine, Luna. The Elves have all been very helpful at bringing my clothes and other personal items. As well as all the things I need to take care of Teddy. It's such a relief not having to worry about anything other than watching my grandson. I think this is going to be a good move for the both of us," she answered.
"That's good to hear, Andi. Because you and Teddy are our top priority," Harry stated firmly.
"That's sweet Harry. You make this old witch feel needed and loved. I'm sure that when Teddy wakes up he will be very happy to see his godparents are here for another visit."
"Well, I for one would much rather be here doting on our adorable godson, than be back at Hogwarts on display," I added my preference for being here.
"And staying late shouldn't be a problem since we have most of our homework done for class tomorrow. An hour at the most in the Library tonight, should be enough time to finish them," Harry suggested.
This seemed to settle the matter for now, as I turned to Harry. "So shall we head down to the stables to get a little more practice in on our Animagus training? We just need to practice a little more transforming our torso and legs at the same time," I suggested to him.
This was something we haven't had enough practice doing, since we were somewhat limited by how much we could change ourselves while still wearing our clothes. Transforming with your clothes on was an advanced skill that we hadn't even tried yet.
"Every day we practice gets us that much closer to trying the full body transformation," I added.
"Okay Luna, that's probably a fairly productive use of our time till Teddy wakes up," Harry agreed.
"Andi, just send one of the Elves down to the stables to let us know when Teddy wakes up. Then we'll head right back up here to see him," I requested.
"He probably won't wake up for another hour and a half. So take your time, but be careful," Andromeda replied.
That done, Harry and I made our way downstairs and over to the hallway that lead to the back door. Once through it we followed the path that led to the stables. When we got there we decided to use the same stall again.
"Since we don't have Ron and Hermione here to back us up, we should take turns so you and I can help each other if there are any problems," I suggested.
"Okay - I'll go first," Harry offered. He began to strip down to just his shorts then quickly removed them as well. He took off his spectacles, too - then closed his eyes in concentration.
His human form started to grow larger as a silky black fur started to cover most of his body. Each body part slowly morphed from human into their Unicorn counterparts, arms changed into front legs while legs became hind legs. Feet and hands transformed into golden hooves as a tail sprouted above his now larger hind end. Then his torso barrelled out into a larger equine form. His shoulders broadened into a longer thicker neck. But other than his ears moving up higher on his head and becoming more pointed in shape, Harry's head remained in it's still very human form. It was a very strange sight to see Midnight's strong masculine body with Harry's head and face on the end of his Unicorn neck.
"Wow. You're almost there!" I said amazed. "Everything okay in there Harry?" I asked.
Harry tried to answer but all that came out was a deeper sounding whinny and a brief snort. He couldn't respond vocally since his throat and vocal cords were now those of a Unicorn.
'Yes. Everything's fine,' he thought as he switched to non-verbal communications.
"Can you change back on your own to human form or do you need some help?" I asked him.
'Give me a moment and I'll try to change back,' he projected his answer to me.
He then closed his eyes and willed his body to change back into into it's human form.
His ears began to move back to their original locations becoming rounder then returning to their normal human form. His shoulders narrowed and neck became shorter. As his chest and torso grew smaller and smaller as they returned to a more human shape. His front and hind legs changed back into arms and legs. His hooves once again became hands and feet. As each body part slowly morphed back into their original human forms. The last remnants of the silky black fur was now completely gone.
"That was excellent Harry! It won't be long now. Was it hard to hold that form?" I asked.
"Not really. It felt like I could easily stay in that shape as long as I wanted to. It's really the transformation that uses most of my magic. Once I'm in my Unicorn body it takes hardly anything to maintain it," Harry answered.
"That's good to know. Are you ready to try it again, Harry?" I asked encouragingly.
"I'm ready. Here goes another try," he replied.
He once again changed himself into his Unicorn form almost completely stopping just short of his head again.
"That was pretty good Harry! Is everything still all right?" I asked him.
'I'm fine. How did it look that time?' he questioned.
"Well, I think this attempt certainly was faster and looked a lot smoother during the transformation," I observed.
'It did feel like it was quicker and a more efficient change for me as well,' Harry projected his thoughts back to me.
"All right then. Change back to your human form and try it again," I suggested.
With that Harry changed back, then made a third attempt to transform into his Unicorn body and back again - followed by two more tries. With each additional effort the results were even faster and made for a more purposeful transformation. By the time he finished the fifth try Harry was ready for a break.
"I need to rest a little Luna, Are you ready to give it a try?" Harry asked as he pulled back on his shorts, shirt, and glasses.
"Okay," I agreed as I started to remove my clothes.
After a few moments I had stripped down to just my bra and knickers. My hands behind my back had my bra unhooked and my breasts free from their silky confinement - I then slipped my knickers off. I was now ready to make my first attempt. I called up the memory of my Unicorn form and remembered what it was like to have that body at least from the neck down, stopping just short of my head. I then willed my body to change wandlessly into that form.
I felt my body start to grow larger as a silky white fur started to cover my body from the neck down. Then my arms and legs began to reshape themselves into my front and rear legs. Next, my hands and feet transformed themselves into golden hooves. A blonde tail sprouted from my expanding rear end. My breasts began to change shape as they relocated themselves to my lower belly - while my torso continued to grow larger reshaping itself into a more equine form. My shoulders broadened and transitioned into a longer thicker neck. It was a very strange sight to look down at my body and see Moonlight's Unicorn form while my human head and face remained on the end of her neck. I could feel my long blond hair transition into my mane. For all practical purposes from the neck down I now had a female Unicorn's body. I moved around the stall and flicked my tail feeling like I'd always had one. It took Harry asking if I was okay to shake me out of my revelry.
'I'm okay - it's just weird being this close to making the complete change. Yet stopping just short of it,' I thought to Harry as I switched to non-verbal communication.
"I know what you mean but it's still good practice. And shows just how much control we actually have over the transformation. Are you ready to change back or do you need assistance, Luna?" Harry asked.
'No I should be okay, Harry. Just give me a moment and I'll give it a try,' I answered non-verbally.
I called up the image of my human form and again willed my body to change back. I felt the changes start immediately. My Unicorn form slowly gave way to their human counterparts.
Like Harry with each attempt I made it was taking less time to complete the transformation into my Unicorn form and back again. By the time I completed my fifth change I was starting to feel exhausted and was ready to take a break.
"Are you ready to try another round, Harry?" I asked him.
"Sure! Now that I've had a rest," he answered, removing his glasses again.
Unlike Harry I hadn't bothered to put any of my clothes back on yet. Apparently the view was enough of a distraction for Harry that he forgot to take off his shorts and shirt. They didn't slow down his transformation at all, as they were ripped apart from Harry's rapidly expanding body.
"Forget something, Harry?" I giggled at my boyfriend's misfortune.
'I guess I was distracted by your beautiful naked body,' he thought to me sheepishly.
"Good answer, Harry. I guess you'll be going commando, unless I fix them for you," I teased him.
As I leaned over to pick up the ripped fabric that was once his shirt and shorts. A quick Reparo charm had the ripped items restored back to a recognizable shirt and shorts. I folded them and set them aside with Harry's other clothes. Harry continued to practice another four times by then he was ready for another break. I then started another round of transformations and had just finished my ninth try when Corin appeared with a pop.
"Master Harry. Mistress Luna. Mrs. Tonks says Teddy is awake now," reported our female Elf.
"Thank you Corin. We'll be right up," Harry said to Corin, who then quickly popped away to give our answer.
I decided to attempt one more try before heading back up to the house but in my rush to make it fast, I forgot not to change my head along with everything else. So when I willed my body to change this time I changed all the way into Moonlight. I quickly realised my mistake yet was also pleased by my unexpected success.
'I did it Harry, I'm a Unicorn!' I exclaimed wordlessly.
"You certainly did Luna!" Harry said excitedly as he cast a couple quick spells to verify the change was complete.
"Everything checks out correctly. Right now you're a perfectly healthy Unicorn mare, Luna," Harry confirmed.
'I'm going to try and change back now, Harry,' I thought to him.
I closed my eyes and recalled the image of my human form then willed my body to change back to normal. It took a little longer for some reason, but I was eventually human again.
"I think you may have forgot a couple things, Luna," Harry said with a smirk. "Although I must say they do make you look particularly cute."
I looked down and quickly noticed I still had a blond tail and my silky white pointed ears on the top of my head. I also noticed my fingernails were coloured gold.
"Well, I almost made it back to normal," I blushed.
I tried again to complete the change back. But my tail and ears still remained from my Unicorn form.
"Harry, I think I could use a little help here," I pleaded.
"Personally I think they're adorable," Harry teased.
"Adorable they may be. But I really think it's best that I don't have them while we visit our godson. Honestly, the last thing we need is for Teddy to start picking up these kind of traits as well, with him already turning himself into a little girl whenever we visit," I insisted, giving my tail a flick again without even trying.
"Oh, all right," Harry agreed reluctantly.
Harry then cast the Animagus reversal spell on me, as my ears became less pointed and moved back down to their normal positions. My tail seemed to pull back into my body and disappeared completely. But my fingernails for some unknown reason remained in their gold colour. I held them up to show Harry.
"That's odd," Harry said as he again cast the Species identification spell on me.
"What's it say, Harry?" I asked him, concerned that something was wrong.
"It says you're a perfectly healthy human female, Luna," Harry reported his findings.
"Then why are they still golden?" I asked confused.
I didn't really mind them being like this. I actually thought they looked rather pretty as they were now. It was like they were painted with a golden nail polish that would never chip or have to be reapplied.
"Maybe it has something to do with this being the first time you completed the change into your Unicorn form without having to use the 24 hour Animagus potion," Harry speculated. "Or perhaps this is one of those things that your human form has inherited from your Unicorn one. Can you still communicate non-verbally without using your little trick?" Harry questioned.
'Apparently I can still do it - even in my human form, without having to resort to my little trick,' I confirmed to him I still had the ability.
"I wonder if you also have the purifying abilities in your human form now, as well. We'll have to look into this further," Harry said.
"I agree. But in the meantime we have a godson who needs visiting," I said, returning to vocal speech.
We both grabbed our piles of clothes and quickly dressed. After almost a month of being female I was starting to get the hang of putting on a bra. Yet I was also beginning to understand why Harry was glad never to have to wear one anymore. Oh well, I had to keep reminding myself to take the good with the bad.
Once dressed we left the stables and quickly made our way back up to the house. Through the back door down the hallway and up the stairs. A quick check of Andromeda and Teddy's room revealed that they were somewhere else. Sounds heard in the nearby study confirmed their whereabouts. We opened the door and went in. Andromeda and Teddy both quickly noticed our arrival.
"There he is. Our favourite little man!" I gushed at seeing my godson again.
"We've come for another visit, Teddy!" Harry exclaimed
Teddy smiled and gurgled happily at us from Andi's arms, as we came in and sat in the nearby love-seat. Andromeda then got up and came over offering Teddy to Harry and me.
"Are you sure Andi?" I questioned her. "We don't want to intrude on Teddy's time with his Grandmother."
"Nonsense, I'm with him all the time. You and Harry only have the occasional weekend to see him," Andi insisted.
"Even if during our visit Teddy spends most of his time being Tabitha?" Harry asked.
"Of course. It's probably just a phase he'll outgrow eventually. If not... Well, Tabitha is a part of Teddy too. It will all work out. You'll see," Andromeda announced as she passed him to Harry.
And just like every other time either Harry or I held him, he quickly changed himself into a little girl with blond hair and Harry's green eyes. Even though we all agreed to call Teddy Tabitha when he was a little girl, when it was just us and no one else we still called her Teddy.
Harry kissed and hugged the sweet little girl that only moments before was a little boy. After a few moments of quality time, Harry passed Teddy to me for more hugs and kisses. I found myself wishing that this adorable little girl was actually my daughter, instead of just my godson. I was shook out of that thought as Corin arrived with a sudden pop.
"Lunch is ready in the family dining room, Master Harry, Mistress Luna and Mrs. Tonks," our female Elf announced.
We all made our way downstairs to the smaller family dining room, just off the much larger ceremonial one. I carried Teddy in my arms hugging and kissing her affectionately. When we arrived I placed Teddy in the high-chair between Andi and me. We both took turns feeding her with various games, sometimes the spoon was the Hogwarts Express going though a tunnel, other times it was a Quidditch Chaser with the Quaffle heading for the rings trying to score. Each time the spoon arrived at it's appointed destination, it delivered various puréed fruits or vegetables to little Teddy's mouth. The rest of us had to suffer eating our lunches the normal, mundane way. The food was excellent as always even if it wasn't delivered as spectacularly as Teddy's was.
After lunch we returned to the upstairs study where Harry and I played with Teddy on the floor as we wandlessly animated various stuffed animals to prance around and kiss Teddy's chubby cheeks. The black and white Unicorn's would also occasionally kiss each other from time to time. Harry and I immediately took to calling them Moonlight and Midnight. They both proved to be Teddy's favourite toys. We must have played with Teddy for hours when I started to noticed Teddy yawning every once and a while. Andromeda noticed as well and offered us the chance to put Teddy down for his late afternoon nap. Harry and I got up from the floor as I picked up Teddy in my arms. We then left the study and made our way over to Andromeda and Teddy's room. A quick sniff confirmed that Teddy's nappy also needed changing. It also proved that Teddy was indeed still a little girl. Once Teddy was all cleaned up and had a fresh nappy, I carried her over to her crib and put her down for a nap. It didn't take long for her to fall asleep. And just like Andromeda had always said Teddy slowly reverted back to his real self as his blond hair returned to the sandy brown hair that matched Remus's hair colour that hadn't prematurely turned grey. He was definitely his fathers son when he looked like this. Harry and I crept slowly out of the room. Andi had been watching us from the doorway.
"Someday in the not-so-distant future you both are going to make wonderful parents. I'll take it from here," she declared.
"Thank you for letting us put him down, Andi. We can always use the practice," I said happily.
"Not from what I saw in there you don't. You both look ready to me. You just need to finish school and get yourselves properly married. Otherwise you both are pretty much good to go." Andromeda smiled.
"It's nice to know we have your support, Andi. But don't forget you have ours as well," Harry said in return. I nodded in agreement.
"We'll leave you with Teddy. Right now, I want to spend a little quality time with my boyfriend."I said. "So how about it Harry? Feel up to a romantic walk through our gardens?" I asked him.
"With you?" Harry asked. "I'd go anywhere with you, just lead the way - pretty lady." He wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.
"Careful Harry. Don't start something unless you plan to finish it," I teased him back.
"Where you are concerned, sweetheart. That's never a problem. So lead on my little vixen," He smirked back at me.
I really didn't need any encouragement as I took Harry's hand in mine and led him down the stairs through the hall that led to the back door. We followed the path past the stables and out into the gardens. It really was beautiful here and the person next to me made it even more special. Harry noticed my brief glance towards him as he gave our joined hands a gentle squeeze. Then leaned down and claimed my willing lips with his. I turned to him deepening the kiss as I moved to put my arms around his neck. He followed my lead by putting his arms around my waist. I was wearing socks earlier but after a a few moments in Harry's arms I wasn't so sure anymore. All I can say is WOW, Harry was a great kisser! Eventually we had to come up for air as we continued to wandering through the gardens - until we found ourselves at the front of Potter Manor near the main fountain. A nearby bench gave our tired legs a rest, as Harry sat down and pulled me into his lap. I rested my head on his shoulder as he wrapped his arms around me. No words were needed as I felt safe and secure in Harry's arms. Nothing else mattered as we continued to drift away in our own little world.
I was eventually brought back to earth as I felt a cool breeze and noticed the sun was slowly disappearing over the horizon. I leaned into Harry, feeling the warmth his arms around me provided.
"I was going to ask if you wanted to get some more flying practice in down at the pitch before next Saturday's game. But time seems to have flown by quicker than I thought, and it will be dark soon," I said to Harry.
"That's okay Luna. I'd much rather spend my free time with you. Besides, Ron has had us out practising every time the Pitch is available," he replied.
It was hard to believe that it was almost time for the first game of the Quidditch season and that next Saturday would be Harry's first real game.
"Are you ready? Do you feel nervous, Harry?" I asked him.
"I think I'm ready. Perhaps a little. That's normal I would expect," he answered.
"Draco better play fair - or I'll hex his bits off," I threatened.
"I don't think I have to worry about Draco. It's his team-mates I'm more concerned about," Harry speculated.
Harry was probably right. Draco had been going out of his way to be very civil to me when I was still Harry Potter. I expect this was due to the testimony I gave at his mother's trial. It probably saved her from serving a possible sentence in Azkaban. But many of the children of various Death Eaters weren't as kind. Several of them still held grudges against Harry Potter. Some were even on the Slytherin team.
"Besides, Astoria Greengrass might retaliate if you did - and I quite like having my bits," Harry smirked.
That's right - Draco and Astoria Greengrass were dating. I had always thought that Draco would end up with Pansy Parkinson. But apparently she took Draco's and his mother's betrayal of Voldemort personally, and had broke things off with Draco. He didn't seem very upset about it.
"Don't worry, Harry I'll protect your bits. After all, they're quite important to me as well," I reassured him.
"I feel better about the game against Slytherin already," Harry laughed.
"But if anyone else on the team tries to hurt you, all bets are off," I stated firmly.
"Fair enough, but in the meantime let's go in before I freeze those very important bits off," Harry joked.
I laughed at Harry's attempt at humour and got up off his lap, feeling the loss of warmth we had been sharing. Not wanting to waste any time we made our way to the front doors and went in. Just as I had expected behind those double doors was the entry room that our family rings always transported us to.
"Hello, Harry and Luna. Did you have a nice time together out in the gardens?" the elder Potters greeted us.
"It was lovely," I answered in a dreamy voice.
"The time I spend with Luna is never long enough for me and always seems to pass far too quickly for my liking," Harry added.
"Spoken like a lad who has found his one special lady. No time together is ever long enough and every time you're apart seems like an eternity," Grandfather said as he leaned over and kissed his wife.
"I think us ladies feel the same way about our special guys. Isn't that right, Grandmother?" I said, as I winked at her in the painting.
"I couldn't agree more, my dear girl." She nodded.
"Well, if you'll excuse us we have a godson who needs our love and attention," Harry said, as we made to leave them.
"Not at all my dear boy, spoil him rotten for us too." Charles Potter called out.
Harry and I then quickly made our way upstairs to find Andromeda and Teddy. A quick check in their room showed Teddy's crib was empty. Additional noises from the study told us where they were. Once inside we continued to heap love and affection on the blond haired, green-eyed little girl who seemed determined to be our daughter. Who was I to argue with this adorable little girl. If she wanted me to be her mum. I'd happily comply and try to be the best mum I could possibly be for her.
Corin appeared and announced that dinner was ready. So we all made the trek down to the family dining room. And had yet another wonderful meal with our growing family. But all good things have to come to an end. Harry and I needed to get back to school. We had at least an hour in the library to finish our homework for tomorrow's classes. So we bid farewell to Teddy, Andromeda and our Elves. Then we Apparated just outside the main gates of Hogwarts and made our way up to the courtyard. As soon as we passed through the main doors I started to notice the attention we were once again getting from our fellow students. I turned to Harry and gave him a quick kiss and said only loud enough for him to hear.
"I'll get my books and meet you in the library, Harry."
He gave a brief nod and said,"I'll see you there."
We then split up and headed up the staircase that led to our respective common rooms. Once I arrived at the door I gave the bronze eagle statue in the form of a knocker a quick tap.
"What has one eye but never sees?" it asked.
I thought hard till the answer became obvious. "A needle," I replied.
"Excellent, dear girl!" it exclaimed, as the door slid open.
I quickly made my way up to the seventh year girls dorm room and went in. Most of my dorm-mates were there and greeted me in turn. Except Mandy who I passed on my way through the common room.
"What have you been up to today, Luna?" Padma asked curiously. " I haven't seen you since this morning."
"Harry and I went to visit his godson again," I answered. "He's such a sweet little boy."
"Sounds like a nice way to spend time with your boyfriend," Su Li said enviously.
"Going with Harry to see his godson says a lot about your relationship with him," Lisa added. "It's almost like you two are already married."
I could tell they wanted to ask if Harry and I had already eloped.
"All right ladies. Let's cut to the chase and just ask what's really on your minds," I declared to my room-mates.
"I know we all promised to keep quiet about it. And we've all kept that promise and haven't told anyone else. But we're dying to ask why Harry's House Elf called you his mistress." Padma summed up their joint question.
"Oh that," I replied like it was no big deal. "Why do you think Kreacher called me his mistress?" I asked coyly.
"Well, we think you and Harry eloped when you were off school grounds," Su Li surmised what they were all thinking.
"That's a very good guess. Yet I hate to disappoint you girls. But my surname is still Lovegood. The real truth of the matter is even more amazing," I teased them.
"But how is that possible?" Lisa asked, even more curious as to what the answer was.
"I'll tell you if you promise not to breath a word of it until Harry and I go public about it," I offered.
"Do we need to swear on it?" Padma asked.
"No. I'll take your word for it. Just know if you let it slip out, it will probably make things even more difficult for me and Harry," I answered.
"We promise!" all three exclaimed.
"Harry and I are soul-mates," I declared.
"WHAT! REALLY! HONESTLY!" all three shouted in shock.
"Soul-mates are incredibly rare. You're not kidding... This would be big news!" Padma said excitedly.
"How on earth did you find out?" Su Li asked.
"Quite by accident. It happened when Harry and I went to Gringotts, a few weeks back. Apparently Goblins can see these kind of bonds in their customers. Harry's account manager immediately noticed we were soul-mates. And thought that was the reason for our visit. He even addressed us as Mr. and Mrs. Potter. As far as the Goblins are concerned, Harry and I are already married. I'm already wearing the Potter family ring, and have all the rights a privileges as the next Lady Potter," I announced, as I revealed the ring on my finger.
My dorm-mates 'ooh'ed and 'aah'ed at the ring.
"Well. That settles it! You and Harry are not really a matter of 'IF' - you're more of a matter of WHEN," Lisa stated the obvious.
"I'd love to stay and chat more, ladies, but I'm already keeping Harry waiting. Remember, I'm counting on you all to keep quiet about this," I announced, as I grabbed my book bag and hurried downstairs through the common room. I then headed towards the library.
When I arrived Harry was at a table towards the back, as far away from everyone as was possible. It was probably to make me happy, since he knew I hated all the gawking. I noticed he was folding and putting away the cleared Marauders Map.
I sat down next to Harry. "Sorry I'm late, but the girls wanted to know why Kreacher called me his mistress the other day. Since they have kept it to themselves I thought they deserved the real answer, instead of them thinking we had eloped," I explained to him.
"So that's what was going on. I was afraid you were getting picked on again," Harry stated, relieved.
"No, we all get along great now. Even Mandy's been really nice to me lately," I replied.
"How much did you tell them about us?" Harry asked.
I told him, making sure that my voice was soft enough for only him to hear me.
"You're not mad, are you?" I put to him.
"No. They already knew enough to figure it out, if they really wanted to. They probably didn't even try that hard, figuring the easy answer was that we eloped." Harry smiled gently at me – in the way that he always did when he was Luna.
"True, but I wouldn't want to get married that way. I want a big wedding, with all our friends and family present," I declared, with my dreamy Luna voice.
"And you shall have it – but it can't happen soon enough for me, sweetheart. I want you to be my wife as soon as we can manage it," Harry whispered in my ear. Then he sighed. "But for now we have some homework that needs seeing to!"
So we turned our full attention to finishing the homework for Potions, Transfiguration and Care of Magical Creatures. Harry finished first, since he had a head start whilst I was busy in my dormitory. It took me an extra twenty minutes to finish mine. We then packed up our books and left the library, walking together until it was time to split up and go our separate ways. I sat my bag down and wrapped my arms around Harry's neck.
"Thanks for today, Harry," I cooed in his ear. "You know, it's a good thing that we have Teddy – because if I didn't have him to direct my maternal instincts towards, I'd probably end up pregnant before we're even out of school. And I'd rather not be several months pregnant on my wedding day," I teased him.
"The thoughts you give me before we separate. I swear you'll be the death of me yet, Luna," Harry groaned. He reflected inwardly for a moment, and checked that we were alone before speaking again. "When I was the old me, I wouldn't have said something like that. I guess I definitely think like a young man, now!"
"I reckon you do. And it's not easy being a slave to the male sex drive – is it, Harry?" I smiled, and then nibbled on his earlobe. I felt little Harry pressing against my belly, and knew my objective was complete.
"No, it isn't. Especially when you know very well we haven't the time to explore it, Luna." Harry's face was a picture of frustration.
"I'm sorry, Harry," I cooed in his ear, pleased by the reaction I was getting from him – knowing that he wanted me as much as I wanted him.
"Goodnight, Harry. I love you!" I declared airily, as I picked up my book bag and quickly made my way up the stairs leading to my common room.
Once inside, I went up the girls' stairs to the seventh year dorms and over to my bed. I stripped down to my knickers and pulled out my old Quidditch jersey, then slipped it over my head. It was clean, but still held Harry's scent. I slipped under the covers and knew I would be visiting Harry in my dreams.
The week that followed passed by in a blur. It consisted of going to class, doing our homework, Quidditch practice, or yet another session of Animagus training. Michael Corner had us training three times a week, even though our first game was still weeks away.
The next time Harry and I practised our Animagus transformations, I learned that Harry had been holding back on me. When he attempted what I thought was his first try at a full body transformation, he succeeded effortlessly and changed back into his human form just as easily. But unlike me, he didn't gain gold fingernails. Harry said that was because subconsciously I probably liked having them. I think he was right. Whilst he of course would have looked funny with gold fingernails. When I asked why it was so easy for him to make the transformation, he stated it was probably because being a unicorn was his native form. And he speculated that I would very likely have an easier time with our Phoenix forms than he would.
The strange thing about it for me was I had no problems changing myself into Moonlight, but every time I reverted back to human form, I usually retained some feature from Moonlight – usually my ears, tail, or often both. One time, even my breasts remained down on my lower belly. Now that was a weird experience. Each time it happened Harry would tease me about it, saying I liked being a unicorn so much that I didn't really want to change back completely. I didn't think that was the reason. Certainly, I liked being able to transform into Moonlight – but I also liked being Luna, especially when Harry and I made love. Personally, I think it was another subconscious reaction to Harry saying how cute I looked with the ears and tail.
The night before Harry's first real Quidditch game I suggested to Hermione that we help our boys get good and tired before going to bed that night. I told her how I had changed the Room of Requirement into a perfect copy of the Prefects bathroom, as well as mentioning the skimpy bikini I wore to get Harry in the mood. And how the Room of Requirement then gave us a private room to make love in. I would wear the one-piece blue swimming costume, whilst offering the yellow bikini for Hermione to wear. In the end, everything went as planned – and Harry and Ron slept through the night, so none of us bothered to return to our dorms. Both of them woke up well rested and ready for the big game.
The first time I saw Harry in his Quidditch robes I thought he looked very handsome wearing them. And since I was now a member of a house team, I wouldn't be allowed to do the commentary for our final year at school. Just as well, I thought – I wasn't confident enough to carry it off with the same flair as the original Luna did, when I played against Hufflepuff during my sixth year. So instead, I made sure to bring my lion hat – making it clear who I was supporting in the Gryffindor-Slytherin game.
Now that we were all dressed, we left the Room of Requirement and made our way down to the Great Hall for breakfast with our friends at the Gryffindor table. I was impressed as I watched Harry eat his breakfast as if it was any other day. I remembered my first game. I was so nervous that I couldn't manage to eat more than a piece of toast. The new Harry seemed to be made of sterner stuff – hopefully that would serve him well in the game.
Once breakfast was over we made our way down to the pitch early, wanting to get good seats for the game. We each walked with our respective boyfriend or girlfriend. Me with Harry, Hermione with Ron, and Neville with Ginny. The rest of the Gryffindor team followed along behind us. When we arrived outside the Gryffindor locker rooms, the rest of the team went in. I turned to Harry and kissed him.
"That was for luck, Harry," I said to him. "I know you'll do great today - but be careful. I have big plans for us tonight, and they don't involve the Hospital wing."
"I'll do my best, sweetheart!" Harry exclaimed confidently. He smiled. "You look adorable with your lion hat, on."
"Well, I have to be clear about which team I'm supporting. Not that I was likely to support Slytherin – since my big, strong boyfriend is on the Gryffindor team," I teased him back.
Harry grinned, and then joined the rest of the team in the locker room.
Hermione, Neville, and I made our way up to the Gryffindor section of the stadium. As we waited for the game to begin, more people showed up. Neville got up and asked, "Can I get anything for you ladies at the sweet stall?"
"Some popcorn would be nice. Thanks, Neville," Hermione requested. I nodded in agreement.
"Won't be long. Save my seat!" Neville called out, as he departed.
Once he was gone I turned to Hermione. "So how are you and Ron managing your little gender problem?" I asked curiously, only loud enough for Hermione to hear.
Hermione looked around - then cast a Muffliato spell to give us some additional privacy. She looked worried. "It's been a little more than two weeks since we reverted to our true forms. But so far there hasn't been any real change – our souls have remained exactly the same, Luna!" she answered. "Ron's is still a pretty red-headed girl with blue eyes, while mine's a handsome young man with curly brown hair and brown eyes. We've both had more sex as we are now, yet nothing's changed!" Hermione answered.
"Well, I think it's a bit early to give up. Harry did say that it would take longer for them to revert, since you're essentially working against how you both experienced sex the first time round," I put to her. "I think what you really have to ask yourself is how you feel about sex as a woman. How does it compare to when you experienced it as a male, Hermione?"
"That's just it, Luna. It's wonderful whenever Ron and I make love, even as a woman! But on a fundamental level it somehow feels wrong. I feel that I should be the one who penetrates Ron. Does that make any sense to you?" she asked, confused.
I considered what she was telling me. "Actually, it makes perfect sense, Hermione. You both love each other, and are very committed. Yet it sounds like you'd probably be happier being the male in your relationship. I wouldn't be surprised if Ron feels that he'd rather be the lady. Each time you have sex as you are now probably only reinforces the feeling that you should both change back."
"But all my life I've been very happy being a girl. I never once thought I wanted to be a boy," she insisted.
"I don't doubt you. I never wished to be a girl, either, when I was still Harry. But as you know, I'm quite happy to be one now. Sure, I've hated just about everything about being Harry Potter – but just changing my sex wouldn't have solved anything. It was not having to be Harry that freed me from all the guilt I was suffering. It took Luna offering me the chance to be her for a while to open my eyes." I paused, reflecting on how I mentally adapted to my life as Luna. "I think that having sex for the first time, as a woman, changed something deep inside me. I didn't realise it at the time, but I know now that even if we had changed back, I probably wouldn't have been happy – and would have eventually begged for us to switch back again, only for good. Fortunately for us we couldn't make the change back when we planned, and when we finally could… Well, by then we both realised we didn't want to, anymore."
"Ron and I both agreed to tough it out for at least a month – then we'd decide what to do about it," Hermione declared. "At that point we'll either switch back for keeps – or stay as we are."
"Would it really be the end of the world if you did end up switching back?" I asked her.
"Not for me, it wouldn't. I can think of several advantages to being a pure-blood wizard that could only help a potential career at the Ministry of Magic. I'd like to think that being a Muggle-born witch doesn't matter. But I'd be naïve to think that Voldemort's defeat would change everything overnight that's wrong with the magical world," Hermione replied.
"It wouldn't surprise me if some of this has already occurred to Ron, as well. After all, he did have your formidable brain for three days," I pointed out to Hermione.
"But do you honestly think Ron truly feels the same way?"
"If there hasn't been any change in how your souls appear, then he most likely does," I answered her. "Haven't you and Ron talked about this?"
Hermione nervously shifted in her seat. "I didn't want my preferences to colour his decision. If he truly wants to switch back again permanently, I want it to be because it's what he wants. Not because I might fare better at the Ministry."
"Maybe that's why he hasn't said anything, either. Perhaps he's waiting for you to express what you want, before saying what he'd prefer," I suggested.
"I love Ron too much to ask him to willingly become a second class citizen, so that I might get a leg up in a Ministry career," Hermione stated.
I tilted my head. "Whilst it's true that many aspects of the magical world are behind the times, compared to the Muggle world, I don't feel that my being a witch makes me a second class citizen…"
"Yet there are still parts of the Muggle world where we girls are culturally treated less favourably than boys or men, Luna," Hermione pointed out.
"True. We're lucky in that regard! And hopefully the more level playing field in this country will help me to realise my own dreams. I'd like to play Quidditch at a professional level. Then, after that, maybe teach Defence or Transfiguration at Hogwarts – as well as having a family with Harry. All those doors are still open to me. Male or female, I'll try to achieve my dreams!" I stated firmly.
"In the end it's up to us, isn't it?" Hermione sighed.
I gave her a quick nod of agreement. "No one has more control over your personal happiness than the person you see reflected back in the mirror. It's up to you and Ron who that person will be. And which life will help or hinder you on the way to the things you want most. Rest assured whatever you both decide; Harry and I will support your decisions. Because no one understands the choice you have to make more than us," I answered.
Hermione gave a wry smile. She squeezed my hand. "You're definitely become wiser since you turned into Luna, Harry."
I smiled back. "Well, I'm a Ravenclaw now. With luck, I'll get to be everything that's good about the old Luna – and Luna, as Harry Potter, will be the best of me, as well as holding onto her old perceptive wisdom."
"I'm missing Luna's remarks about Crumple-Horned Snorkacks and the like." Hermione shook her head in amused disbelief. "I didn't think I'd ever say that…"
"Oh! Leave it to me, Hermione. I'll get Harry to fill me in on the creatures she talked about," I replied. "After all, when I'm at the Rookery, I'll need to sound completely like my father's daughter! And think somewhat like her, too, so that dad - sorry, daddy - doesn't suspect the truth about me."
It was at this point that Neville returned with a tub of popcorn. Hermione cancelled the Muffliato spell, and we took the popcorn.
The stands were now filled to capacity, with the game about to begin. The announcer introduced the team players and their positions.
"Here comes Gryffindor! Playing Chasers for today's match are Ginny Weasley, Demelza Robins and Dean Thomas. The Beaters are Jimmy Peakes and Ritchie Coote. Team Captain and Keeper is Ron Weasley. And finally, here's Harry Potter's triumphant return as Gryffindor's Seeker!" the announcer exclaimed excitedly.
The applause grew as each member was announced and took the field. My lion hat roared in support for the Gryffindor team. Cheers came from everywhere in the stadium – except for the Slytherin viewing stands, where the pupils booed and jeered.
"And here comes Slytherin! Playing Chasers for today's match are Blaise Zabini, Emmeric Vaisey, and Alex Harper. Beaters are Theodore Nott and Samuel Travers. Playing Keeper is Quinton Avery. Finally, here's the team Captain and Seeker, Draco Malfoy!" The announcer tried hard to sound just as excited for the Slytherin team.
Ron and Draco approached Madame Hooch.
"Now, I want a good clean game. Shake hands and mount your brooms!" Madame Hooch urged them.
Ron and Draco reluctantly shook hands, then turned to mount their brooms and flew up to join their teams. Madame Hooch released the balls and blew her whistle. Ginny was the first to reach the Quaffle as she sped towards the Slytherin rings. A quick pass to Demelza and back – then a fake pass to Dean was enough to fool the Slytherin Keeper.
"Gryffindor scores, 10-0!" the announcer yelled.
My lion hat roared, in response.
Slytherin's Chasers now had the Quaffle, and were streaking towards Ron - with Ginny, Demelza and Dean in hot pursuit as they bashed or banged into each other. Whilst Beaters Jimmy Peakes and Richie Coote hit the Bludgers at the approaching Slytherins.
"Emmeric Vaisey passes to Alex Harper, who then tosses it back to Blaise Zabini. He shoots… But is blocked by Ron Weasley, who then passes it to Demelza Robins – as Ginny Weasley and Dean Thomas make for the Slytherin rings," the announcer declared, giving a play-by-play of the action. "Another pass to Thomas. Back to Robins, who shoots. Blocked by Quinton Avery – who then hands the Quaffle off to Emmeric Vaisey and over to Alex Harper, as they speed down the pitch. Jimmy Peakes hits a Bludger at Alex Harper, who drops the Quaffle - and it's quickly recovered by Ginny Weasley. Who then passes to Thomas, and over to Robins – then back to Thomas… Who shoots…and scores! 20-0 to Gryffindor!"
My lion hat roared again at the result. Meanwhile, I'd been keeping an eye on Harry and Draco as they continued to shadow each other high above the furious action below. Harry suddenly raced towards the Slytherin rings at the Firebolt's top speed, with Draco right on his heels. Harry reached out for the Snitch – then Theodore Nott hit a Bludger right at Harry's head.
'Duck, Harry!' I screamed through our mental link. I conveyed the image of a Bludger speeding at his head.
Harry reacted to my warning just in time, as the Bludger just passed over his head. My warning might have prevented him from getting a very serious head injury. The Bludger still had the desired effect of distracting Harry long enough for him to lose sight of the Snitch. Generally, anything goes in Quidditch – but hitting a Bludger directly at the head of an opponent, with the intent to do serious injury was crossing a line. But that was the problem – it was hard to prove that it was intentional, or merely off target.
Besides me, Hermione and Neville gasped with relief at Harry's close call.
'Be careful, Harry. I think that some of the Slytherin players have a personal grudge against Harry Potter,' I sent to him, now worried about his safety. Many of the Slytherin team players had fathers who were put away in Azkaban, or killed during the war. So it wasn't surprising some would want to take it out on Harry. While Draco on the other hand was playing as hard as he could to win, but so far he hadn't done anything to intentionally hurt Harry. I was grateful for that. Too bad that the same couldn't be said for some of his team mates.
Meanwhile, the rest of the game continued at an ever quicker pace. Gryffindor added four more goals, while Slytherin answered with two – bringing the score to 60-20 in Gryffindor's favour. But it was still anyone's game to win. My eyes swept the stadium, looking for the Snitch – hoping to help Harry end the match before he was seriously hurt, or worse, killed. But Harry sighted it before me, spotting it below the Gryffindor goals. He was closer than Draco and dived toward it as quickly as he could. He was suddenly run into by Emmeric Vaisey, who almost knocked Harry off his broom. It was clearly intentional at the time, as there were no other players, or Quaffle, near to Harry when Vaisey struck him. Hermione and I cried out, hands shooting to our faces. Neville's face turned red, as he shouted "Foul!"
The majority of spectators booed and hissed at Slytherin's obvious attempt to take out the Gryffindor Seeker. Madame Hooch whistled.
"Penalty against Slytherin!" she called out.
Harry looked dazed. How he managed to stay on his broom after being hit so hard, I'll never know. But the impact by Vaisey had allowed the Snitch to escape capture once again.
Ginny took the penalty shot for Gryffindor, and scored.
"Gryffindor scores, 70-20," the announcer yelled.
My lion hat roared again as Ginny raised an arm in triumph.
Ron called for a break as he flew up to check on Harry. After a few moments, Harry waved him off. Madame Hooch blew her whistle and tossed the Quaffle as the game resumed.
Harry and Draco were once again high above the normal game play, looking for the Snitch. The Gryffindor Chasers continued to rack up more points on the scoreboard. Slytherin added two more – making the score 110-40 in Gryffindor's favour. With the aid of her new broom, Ginny was really dominating the game - with assistance from Dean and Demelza.
I continued to look desperately for the Snitch. I didn't really want to cheat. But I also didn't want Harry killed because of a Slytherin grudge against me from my previous life. If something happened to Harry I'd never forgive myself.
The game grew rougher as Gryffindor continued to add to their lead. Between the superior performance by their Chasers and Ron's better than usual goal keeping, they were well on their way to having enough points to win, even if Draco caught the Snitch. That was when Harry and Draco saw the Snitch again. Draco may have seen it first, but Harry was a little closer. Soon they were neck and neck as they continued to give chase after the Golden Snitch. It bobbed and weaved, trying very hard to escape the ones chasing it. Fortunately, no Bludger or Slytherin player got in the way this time. It came down to a contest between the two lads. Which one was the better Seeker? Draco was as good as he had ever been. But Harry was even better as he easily outmanoeuvred Draco to capture the Snitch and win the game for Gryffindor.
"Potter has caught the Snitch! Gryffindor wins the match, 280-60!" the announcer screamed the final score.
The crowd went wild as Ron, Ginny and the rest of the team flew over to Harry and pulled him into a big celebratory group hug. I was so proud of Harry, as my lion hat continued to roar at Gryffindor's victory. Eventually Harry pulled away and flew over to the Gryffindor section for a well deserved victory kiss from his girlfriend. I of course happily complied with great enthusiasm. He then surprised everyone by pulling me onto his broom in front of him and wrapping his arms around me.
"What are you doing, Harry?" I asked, confused.
"Making sure the most important person to me is going to be at the victory party," Harry answered. "I'll meet you back in the Gryffindor common room for our victory party, everyone," he called out, as he then flew directly from the pitch to a window outside Gryffindor tower.
A quick "Alohomora" had one of the windows that led to the Gryffindor common room unlock and open. We flew in and dismounted. There wasn't anyone here, since everyone was still down at the pitch. I hadn't been in the Gryffindor common room since I became Luna. Sometimes I really missed not being in Gryffindor. It was a shame Luna wasn't sorted into Gryffindor with the rest of us. I'm sure she wouldn't have been picked on nearly as much.
"Are you all right, Luna?" Harry asked, noticing my melancholy mood.
"I was just thinking I haven't been in here since I became Luna. It feels strange being back. That, and wishing we were in the same house," I answered wistfully.
"I could have been in Gryffindor. The Sorting Hat couldn't make up its mind - and it asked which house I preferred. I told it to put me in Ravenclaw, because my Mum was sorted there as well," Harry told me. "Daddy always said I was so like her that I thought it would please him. If I knew then that my future spouse would be in Gryffindor I would have insisted it put me here, instead."
I wasn't surprised that the Sorting Hat had seriously considered putting the original Luna in Gryffindor. I knew during the battle at the Department of Mysteries that she was brave. She went on to defend the school from Death Eaters in my sixth year – and of course during the final battle at Hogwarts.
"I can understand the Sorting Hat's dilemma, with your brilliant mind and limitless courage. Placing you in one or the other would be difficult," I said to Harry.
"That's very nice of you to say, sweetheart. But if you really want to be a Gryffindor, you can be. All it would take is us getting married. Then you could join your husband in his house," Harry teased.
"Don't tempt me, Harry. You and I both know it would create more problems than it would solve at this point. Besides, I don't need to be your wife to know you're still all MINE," I said suggestively.
"Very true. I feel the same way," he replied. "I need to go take a quick shower. See if you can arrange some food and drink for the victory party." He then turned and went up the stairs to the boy's dorms.
"Kreacher," I called our older house elf. He quickly arrived with a pop.
"Yes, Mistress Luna?" he asked.
"Gryffindor won the Quidditch match today, and we are going to have a victory party. Could you arrange for some food and drinks for us with the other Elves in the kitchens, please?" I asked sweetly.
"Oh yes. Kreacher can do this for his mistress," he answered, and disappeared.
In a couple of minutes a large table appeared with all manner of food you could ever want for a victory party. A large metal tub was nearby, full of warm bottles of Butterbeer. It was ready just in time as people started to return from the Quidditch match. Harry came back down from getting cleaned up and he pulled me over to a chair near the fireplace, after grabbing a bottle of Butterbeer. He then sat down and pulled me into his lap and wrapped his arms around me.
"There. Now I have everything I need to celebrate," he declared, before claiming my lips with his.
Well, who was I to argue with the man who had caught far more than just the Snitch. My lion hat roared once again at yet another unknown victory – and my lips were apparently the prize.
(To be continued)
Beta reader / Proof reader / Helpful edits gratefully provided by Ravenclaw Midnight Blue!
Well here we are again with an update on the second anniversary of this story. Yes I know it's been a while and I'm terribly sorry about the wait. I really wish I was one of those authors who was able to update weekly. But sadly that just isn't me, so unless you want really short chapters with even worse grammar and punctuation. They will take a bit longer. But any update is better than no update, right?
I myself usually prefer the longer chapters when I read Fanfiction. Yet I know first hand the disappointment of a really good story that has been abandoned. So I again promise to finish this story only death itself would ever stop me from finishing it. And clearly I'm still among the living, so to reward you for your patience here is all of the next chapter that has now been completely Beta'd. I had originally intended to post all of chapter 20 today since it was all written but my Beta reader had unfortunately fallen ill and wasn't able to finish with the final parts before the tenth. So I want you all to send your good thoughts and positive feelings towards Ravenclaw Midnight Blue. Hopefully it's nothing serious as we all wish RMB a speedy recovery. So I chose to post the whole thing as is till I got the rest, but keep in mind that RMB usually makes each chapter a lot better. I'll update the rest of chapter 20 as I get them from RMB. (Note: All parts are now back from RMB)
I'm hoping to get at least two more Chapters out before the end of the year, so keep your fingers crossed. One hopefully in late November sometime, the other one on Christmas day!
Till then, on to Chapter 21
TTFN
IamMegumi