A/N: Here's chapter 17. It was very hard to write...nasty case of writers block. Anyhow thanks for all the great reviews. I'll be posting review responses at...hmmm check my profile - it doesn't like html in the document. Give me 24-48 hours to get those up though - I've got quite a bit of work to do over the next couple of days.

Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter...everyone knows that

17: Phoenix Lesson

Harry did not recall how he made it back to the common room and up to his bed the previous night – Ginny must have guided him to bed. Taking a deep breath, Harry realized that he could still smell her. His movement caused something red to shift from the pillow to his chest. It was Ginny; she had not left him.

You all right? came Ginny's sleepy voice.

Harry pulled her a little closer, Yeah. It's just a lot to take in at once. I always knew Snape was an evil slimeball, but…but he's the reason I don't have any parents. Him and Wormtail. Then there's the prophecy.

This time it was Ginny who gripped him tighter. It doesn't matter, the sleepiness had left her voice.

It's a prophecy – it is going to happen, protested Harry.

It has not told us anything we didn't already know. Everyone knows you have the power to defeat him – you did it when you a baby – and after last year it is not exactly a secret that he wants you dead.

I guess, but…I don't like the idea that my fate is sealed.

There was a long pause from Ginny as she considered his words, Your fate is not sealed. It did not say anything about you dying. Quit worrying about it – we haven't even heard the whole thing yet. Besides you've got other things to think about!

I do? Harry began to contemplate several ways to kill Snape.

Not that! Although, drowning him in his own cauldron does have promise…Ginny said distractedly before getting back to the point, The defense group is meeting tomorrow night – by the way it needs a better name. Harry frowned; the year was not turning out well. And…

…and?

Yes, and we need to help Ron with his transformation.

……………………….

Harry looked around the common room in frustration and a little bit of fear. Almost every Gryffindor in fourth year and above was waiting for him to take them to where the defense meeting was going to be held. Hermione was beaming at the large crowd; Harry resisted the urge to throttle her; besides, he knew he was not really mad at her. He was mad at Snape. It had taken all of his self-control not to hex Snape in class. The thing that had really saved him from hexing Snape was not his self-control though, it was Umbridge's presence. Seeing his two most hated professors having a silent battle of wills was even better than seeing McGonagall blowing up at Umbridge. He had no hope that she would put Snape on probation like Ron had told him she had with Trelawney, but he still was able to fantasize about what life would be like with a different potions professor.

"Er…can everyone…" Harry stopped as he realized he had almost said 'can everyone hear me?' and he did not want to quote that hack. "Can everyone follow me?" Everyone nodded or said a quiet affirmative. Harry stood for a few seconds before he realized everyone was waiting for him to lead them. Shaking his head in astonishment, Harry led them out of the common room and toward the Room of Requirement where he would meet Ginny. Ginny was currently meeting with those from other houses in the library so that she could lead them to the seventh floor.

No one spoke when the entered the Room of Requirement. Only Harry and Ginny had ever seen it before and neither of them had seen it setup like a training room. On one side of the wall were shelves of books dedicated to hexes, jinxes, and curses. The other three walls were lined with what looked like padding of some kind. Pillows were piled in one of the corners as well. Harry was sure they would be useful for practicing stunning.

Almost everyone from the Hogshead had shown up, even the annoying Zacharias Smith. Harry's eyes surveyed the rest of the gathered group. In addition to the Gryffindors, the other houses seemed to be well represented. Susan Bones, Hannah Abbot, and Ernie Macmillian from Hufflepuf were present. Ravenclaw had even more, which did not really surprise Harry as the Defense Association was a way to further knowledge. What did surprise him was the Cho Chang had shown. She was standing near a boy Harry only vaguely recognized. He was certain that the boy had said who he was at the Hogshead, but he did not remember. Harry smiled at their proximity.

Hey Ginny! I don't think Cho's interested in me any more.

Good…I guess everyone is here.

"Hey! This is fantastic!" announced George.

"But I thought it was a broom closet? Didn't we hide here from Filch once?" inquired Fred.

Harry grinned at the twins and just as he opened his mouth the door opened again. Luna Lovegood wandered in. She looked around and grinned dreamily before moving to stand beween Ron and Neville. Both boys gave Luna nervous glances as if gauging to see if she was going to say anything strange, but she did not.

Ginny gave him a mental prod, "Er…well I guess…" Harry began, but Hermione interrupted.

"Excuse me, but I think we should all remember that we agreed to keep what we are doing here secret – this means you can't tell anyone outside the group. except for those who might be interested in joining – we all signed on it," Ginny gave Hermione a piercing look. There was something in Hermione's voice and the way she had said "signed" that made her think that Hermione was hiding something important.

"We need a name," came a dreamy voice. Luna was smiling absently and everyone began nodding in agreement as if in shock that they agreed with something Luna had said.

"It needs to be something we can say without arousing suspicion," contributed Hermione.

"I know! The Ministry of Magic Are Morons Group!" announced Fred to chuckles.

"NO! Something that won't arouse suspicion," Hermione hissed and Fred mumbled something about it being a joke.

"It won't! We can call it the MMMG!" announced George to laughter.

"How about the Defense Association?" asked Cho seriously, "and the D.A. just for short – no one will know what were talking about."

"That sounds good," seconded Ginny who briefly toyed with the idea of suggesting 'Dumbledore's Army,' but decided that no matter how much she wanted to spite Umbridge and the Ministry in general she also did not want to be Dumbledore's army.

"Excellent. Let's vote on it then," said Hermione, "Raise your hands to vote yes," she commanded. Almost every hand went up. "That settles it. Welcomed to the D.A.; now we need a leader."

Several people shifted and looked at each other and then back at Hermione. Finally, someone in the back spoke up, "I thought Harry was the leader."

Hermione smiled like an indulgent teacher, "Yes, but I think we should make it official. It would give him more authority. So, all in favor?" Everyone raised their hands even Zacharias Smith, though he did so with a reluctant air.

Although incredibly nervous and unsure of himself, Harry knew he was expected to start, "Ok, I guess we should start with something simple like the disarming spell. The incantation is expelliarmus. Now if you would pair off and…"

In incredulous snort came from Zacharias Smith, "Oh please, if we are just going to go over simple stuff what's the point?"

"The Disarming Charm can be very useful," responded Ginny with an icy tone.

Smith evidently missed the tone because he just rolled his eyes, "How is it going to be useful against You-Know-Who?"

Ginny responded cuttingly, "How do you expect to face him at all if you can't even say his name?" Zacharias Smith glared at her.

Knowing that if this kept up Ginny would be demonstrating a few unique hexes on an unwilling test subject, Harry decided to act, "And Ginny is right," he placed his hands on her shoulders. "The charm is very useful. I've used it against him and it saved my life."

"Oh," said Smith coloring slightly. "I guess it wouldn't hurt to practice."

It quickly became clear that despite the simplicity of the spell many people needed practice getting their strength and accuracy under control. Ginny had paired with Zacaharias Smith. After she had sent him flying across the room for the fifth time he found someone else to practice with.

Enjoying yourself?

Ginny flashed him a brilliant smile as she moved to pair off with someone else. Harry continued to walk around giving helpful pointers and occasionally demonstrating the proper wand movement.

"Oww," came a loud groan that could only be Ron. After he and Hermione had gotten into a small argument, relative to their previous arguments, over proper wand movement he had paired with Luna and Hermione with Neville. Harry had not really been watching, but from what little he had seen he could not figure out how Ron had ended on the wall opposite Luna. She had been erratic for sure – sometimes her charm did nothing more than tickle – but her spell, even when it worked, had not send anyone sailing before.

Luna was kneeling besides Ron by the time Harry arrived at the side of the room. Everyone had gathered around the groaning Gryffindor. "What happened?"

Ron only groaned again and Luna turned her head to face Harry, "He said I was not doing the spell right." There was only a trace of concern on her face.

"Er…well it looks like you've got it right to me," Harry said.

Ginny snorted, "Boy Ron, you must be a great teacher!" Ron gave her a dark look.

"He is a wonderful teacher," said Luna her concerned face was gone, replaced by her standard dreamy look. Ginny giggled.

Look at Hermione!

The older girl was frowning as her eyes went from Luna to Ron and back to Luna. Harry was not sure if she was irritated that Ron had obviously been able to teach someone the correct wand movements or that Luna was flirting with him in her own, strange manner.

His question was answered when Hermione's frown deepened and a line formed on her forehead. Luna had pulled Ron up and was brushing him off, "Ronald, you need to be more careful when you fall! You almost hit the baby blibbering humdingers." Luna's hands lingered slightly longer than necessary as she brushed his shoulders and back.

Ron did not look like he knew how to handle the attention. "Yeah, um, sorry. Thanks, Luna."

………………………………………

The next two weeks went by rapidly. Harry was so busy, even with Ginny's help, with homework, quidditch, and the D.A. that he did not have much time to dwell on either the prophecy or Snape. Unfortunately, the time he did have to brood was spent brooding over Ron. He had not been doing well at the quidditch practices and as the game between Slytherin and Gryffindor drew closer it seemed the Slytherins were getting to him with their needling.

Harry and Ginny had discussed the issue at length and neither of them had a solution. Angelina refused to give up on Ron though, for which Harry was thankful. Harry had even gone to Sirius for advice, but the old marauder did not have any helpful suggestions, just saying that it was something Ron had to work through. Truthfully, Harry was becoming more and more worried about Ron. Quidditch was not the only area where Ron was having trouble. Ginny and Harry had been trying to work with him on his animagus transformation, but he was not making any progress.

Then there was Umbridge. While Harry and Ginny did not prank Umbridge, other than occasionally renewing a charm on a suit of arms, she had not spent the past two weeks in peace. Fred and George seemed to take over their role while they were busy. They took great glee in following Umbridge's decrees to the letter. Umbridge had not realized her mistake when she had prohibited the charming of decorative objects.

She had entered class one day to find that all the desks had been charmed to act as cattle. It had taken a plea to both Professor Flitwick and Professor Dumbledore (and half the day waiting for them to respond) before the charm was removed. Next, the twins targeted her meals. She had run screaming from the hall when the knives, all the knives, had suddenly stood on their ends and started flying at her. When the knives finally caught up with her, they had stopped only a couple centimeters from her before harmlessly falling to the floor.

Harry's favorite had been a tie between when the twins had somehow charmed the cushion of her chair to bite and when they transfigured the stupid bow on top of her head into a fly. Several Educational Decrees followed the twin's spate of pranks. All of them very specific in what should not be charmed. So far the list included (besides decorative objects) desks, chairs, silverware, quills, inkwells, tables, and professor's clothes.

……………………………………

Harry's hand clenched hard around the snitch. He was happy that the game was over; Ron's performance had been dismal – he had not saved even a single shot. Then there were the Slytherins with their equally awful song. Between the song and Crabbe's and Goyle's blatant fouling, which Crabbe was being told off for now by Madam Hooch, it was a wonder they had won at all. Harry shook his head as he was joined by Fred and George.

Unfortunately, Fred and George were not the only ones to join him on the ground. Malfoy's drawl came from behind him, "Hey Potter! I heard you stayed with those Weasels." Harry rolled his eyes and did not even both to turn around. The fact that Fred and George were weasels made the statement rather funny to him. Fred and George both grinned. "I don't know how you stand it. They live in a converted pigsty I understand. The smell has to be awful and then there's their pudgy, foul smelling, blood traitor of a mother." It was not Harry, but Fred and George who reacted.

Harry caught George, who was closest to him, and held him back. The Gryffindor chasers had joined them at some point and it was taking all three of them to hold Fred away from Malfoy.

Malfoy's glee at their reactions was evident in his voice, "Oh my, but that did hit a nerve. What about you, Potter? Don't you care? I suppose you wouldn't so long as you still get to do their sister." Harry felt his face color in anger, but still refused to face Malfoy's taunts. "Is she any good? Perhaps I'll find out." Malfoy's voice dropped so few could hear him, "There are a lot of dark hallways."

The next thing Harry knew his fist had impacted Malfoy's surprised face. The force of the impact sent Malfoy a good ten feet. George was rushing to join him; he had just thrown his first punch when something impacted them both, forcing them to fall away from Malfoy. "Mr. Potter! Why I never…in all my years at Hogwarts…how dare you hit another student!" Madam Hooch had evidently finished with Crabbe.

"Follow me. Both of you," came the stern voice of Professor McGonagall. Harry and George gave Malfoy looks of sheer hate before turning to follow McGonagall. The slight glow around Harry's hand faded. Harry allowed himself a brief smile as Malfoy was cursed with the bat-bogey hex. When the reached her office she commanded them to take the seats opposite her desk. "Muggle dueling! What got into you two? You should be ashamed of yourselves!"

"Hem, hem," Harry was not sure if it was him or George that groaned. Hogwarts High Inquisitor Dolores Umbridge had arrived.

The common room was in an uproar. No one was sure, except for Ginny, what had happened to cause the fight. Ginny was ignoring the entire affair in favor of pacing in front of the portrait hole. Eventually, Hermione had ordered everyone to go to bed. Despite her attempts, Fred and Ginny remained. Ginny was still pacing, but now it was mostly due to anger.

Umbridge is going to spend some quality time as a toad, she vowed, and then added, in the owlery.

Sounds good, came Harry's disgruntled reply.

The portrait slammed shut as Harry and George trudged through. George was the first to speak, "Umbridge banned us," his gaze shifted to Fred, "You too."

Silence greeted the statement and then Fred and George left for the dormitory without a word. "McGonagall wouldn't…" Hermione said lamely.

"Umbridge would," growled Harry in reply. Hermione nodded in understanding.

Ron chose that moment to walk through the portrait hole, his red hair plastered to his forehead. He had obviously spent a long time in the showers. "Hey guys," he said dismally. "I'm going to tell Angelina I quit in the morning. Thanks for saving my butt tonight Harry."

"You can't quit," Harry said with equal depression.

"What?"

"He, along with Fred and George, has been banned by Umbridge. If you quit then she will have to replace more than half the team," Ginny supplied.

Ron looked up and through the nearest window as if trying to find his courage. "Oh…I guess I have to stay th…" A surprised look crossed his face, "The lights are on in Hagrid's hut!"

"I'll get the invisibility cloak," Harry said as he surveyed three eager faces, quidditch troubles momentarily forgotten.

There was no way for all four of them to fit under the invisibility cloak. Harry looked around furtively before transforming, grabbing Ginny, and flaming to the back of Hagrid's hut. Hermione and Ron were left with the invisibility cloak.

Harry and Ginny waited for them by Hagrid's door. It was easily apparent when the pair was near.

"Ginny," said Harry loudly, "Can you tell me the point of using an invisibility cloak if you are only going to give away your position by arguing?

Giggling before responding, Ginny also answered in a clear voice, "Only if you are Ron and Hermione." The bickering ceased immediately.

"What do you mean?" asked Ron indignantly as he took the invisibility cloak off.

"What do you think they mean?" responded a flushed Hermione. Ron opened his mouth to respond when Hagrid's door opened.

"Should have known it was you – always breakin' the rules. I could hear you bickering from a mile away. Come inside, come inside," said Hagrid with a gruff smile.

The four of them quickly entered the cabin grateful for the warmth provided by the fire. "Where have you been?" demanded Hermione before anyone had a chance to speak.

Hagrid's back was back to them and he did not respond either because he did not hear Hermione or because he did not want to. The four of them gasped as Hagrid turned allowing them their first good look at him. His face was bruised and sported several nasty cuts.

"Hagrid, what happened?" Hermione's tone had changed from accusatory to conciliatory.

"It looks worse than it is; don' you worry about it. I wan' ta hear what's been happening her'," Hagrid said trying to brush her off. It did not work. He was forced to tell them what he had been doing during the summer, although none of them were happy with his explanation of why he was late. He just said that he had taken a longer road home.

"Now, tell me what I've missed. I haven' had any news since I lef'!" Hagrid demanded smiling.

They looked at each other not sure where to start. Harry figured he might as well start with the worst, "Well Umbridge is teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts, she's the Hogwarts High Inquisitor, I've been banned from playing quidditch, oh and Umbridge is inspecting teachers."

Hagrid's face was confused or at least they part they could see under the piece of dragon meat, "What? High Inquisitor? Umbridge, as in Dolores Umbridge?" Hagrid asked.

Hermione again came to the rescue giving an excellent rendition of everything that had happened since they had come back to school, "…so you see why you have to be careful with your lessons – Trelawney is already on probation and we already know that Umbridge has a grudge against half-breeds and anyone who supports Dumbledore!"

"Don' worry. I've go' somin special planned," Hagrid assured.

He's going to get fired, Ginny sent.

Yep.

Hermione obviously thought the same thing, "NO! I mean just stick to Professor Grubbly-Plank's syllabus and teach whatever is going to be on our O.W.L.s."

Hagrid smiled, "Why would you wan' that? I've got somin interestin planned."

"That's what I'm afraid of," muttered Hermione quietly, "Surely there's something else you can do!"

"None of that…I've been plannin this since last year! I've probably got the only domesticated herd in all of Britain!" Hagrid proclaimed happily. "Now tell me about your summer." Hermione again took over the story, but she had not got far when Hagrid interrupted, "WHOA! Harry, Ginny you are both animagi?" Hagrid's gleeful face told everyone he thought there was nothing wrong with them becoming animagi or that Harry had not been staying with the Dursleys. Hermione seemed a little putout, but did not say anything.

"Well what are you waitin for? Show me!" Harry smiled at Ginny and the both transformed; Harry into a phoenix and Ginny into a panther.

"Harry's also a panther!" said Ron happily.

Even Hermione seemed to be ready to accept the situation, "It is remarkable. I don't recall ever reading about an animagus with two forms."

"Let's see the phoenix again," Hagrid prodded Harry's panther form and then he turned his attention back to Ginny. "What a sweet kitty you make." Both Hermione and Ron rolled their eyes; Ginny did not look like a sweet kitty to them. Hagrid looked up from examining Ginny's sharp teeth and inhaled sharply, "Who's that?"

Hermione quickly went to the window, "Umbridge! Quick we need to hide!"

There was not time for Harry or Ginny to rush towards Ron and Hermione, who had thrown the invisibility cloak over themselves. Not knowing what else to do they remained in their animagus forms.

"Hello," Hagrid said as he opened the door. Umbridge smiled and entered the cabin without invitation. Harry noticed that she was walking gingerly and her hand would often caress her backside.

I wonder what Fred and George charmed to bite her this time, Ginny's amusement was evident.

Oh, the possibilities are endless, snickered Harry.

Her nose crinkled in disgust as she looked around. When she saw the panther and the phoenix she widened her eyes in surprise, "Well…you must be Professor Hagrid. I'm Hogwarts High Inquisitor, Dolores Umbridge." She did not extend her hand, "As you may or may not be aware, I am charged with ensuring the education received by the students here at Hogwarts is up to Ministry standards. To that end I am inspecting every professor; so you can expect to see me soon." Her eyes flicked to the panther, which growled at her, and then to the phoenix. Her curiosity got the better of her, "I was under the impression that you only owned a dog."

Hagrid looked toward the two transformed students, "Er…yes…you see the panther…er…I found in the forest. She was…um…injured."

Umbridge raised an eyebrow, "Yes, see that it remains under control." Ginny growled louder and Umbridge took a half step back, "And the phoenix – how did you come to own one?"

A look of relief past over Hagrid's face. The large man was not a good liar, but the toad like woman had unwittingly given him a way out. She had asked him about a magical creature and Hagrid's knowledge on the topic was probably only second to Dumbledore's, "I don' own the phoenix. No one can own a phoenix. Not even Dumbledore owns Fawkes."

"Really, how interesting!" she lied badly. "Why is it here?"

Hagrid looked lost. "Well…um…er…he's…ah...agreed to help in my next lesson. Yeah, that's right, my next lesson." Harry chirped in encouragement.

Umbridge frowned, unable to find fault with the answer. "Term started on September 1st. Where have you been?"

"I was…um…coming back from my vacation," Hagrid stumbled over his words.

"Really? Hmmm…I will be taking that into account in your final evaluation," Umbridge turned to leave, but stopped and said, "You would not happen to know where the footsteps leading to your cabin came from do you?" Ginny growled deeply and shifted her weight; Umbridge noticed, "Oh, yes, well if you don't mind I will be leaving." She left quickly.

"That's a brilliant idea, Hagrid!" crowed Hermione. Hagrid and the others looked at her bewildered.

"You said that you were going to teach phoenixes next lesson! I bet Umbridge is going to inspect on your first class back – it would be so like her."

Hagrid looked doubtful, but did not know how to get himself out of it. Harry, however, saw promise in Hermione's plan, "It's a good idea Hagrid. All I have to do is pretend to be sick and she won't be able to find anything wrong with you teaching about phoenixes."

Hagrid still looked troubled, "I don' know – phoenixes aren' very excitin."

Ah, how could we forget – if it does not have razor sharp teeth or claws and could kill you as quick as it could blink, it isn't interesting, giggled Ginny mentally. "But Hagrid, you could make anything interesting! Besides," Ginny stopped as she realized what she was about to say and shuddered.

"and besides," Harry said taking over from Ginny as he moved to her side, "phoenixes are interesting – just look at what Fawkes was able to accomplish in my second year."

"Hmmm, yes that was impressive the way he blinded the basilisk," Hagrid mused. Hagrid was one of the few people who knew almost the entire story and it had surprised everyone, considering his fascination with dangerous beasts, that he had described the basilisk as a horrible creature. "Phoenixes are mighty powerful magical creatures," Hagrid seemed to be talking to himself. Repositioning the steak on his face, he looked at Harry, "So can you travel by fire? I've seen Fawkes do that many times."

"Yes, it's much better than flooing or portkey," Harry answered with a grin.

"Do you have all the other phoenix powers?" Hagrid's interest in creatures of all kinds seemed to be getting the best of him.

Harry crinkled his forehead in thought, "I can carry heavy loads and…well…besides that it is the only thing I've done besides flame travel."

"You haven' used healin tears?" asked Hagrid with interest evident on the half of his face that was visible.

"Hey! Harry, you could heal him!" interjected Ron.

"I suppose I could try."

"Go ahead, Harry," urged Hermione.

Harry transformed into a phoenix and flew to perch on the arm of Hagrid's chair. Hagrid removed the green the steak so Harry had access to the rest of his injured face. Blinking rapidly, Harry tried to summon tears. It did not work. He tried remembering every sad and traumatic thing that had ever happened to him, but still the tears would not come.

For five minutes he continued his attempts to cry, but to no avail. Finally, he gave a frustrated trill. He almost fell off his perch in shock. Light seemed to shine out of Hagrid's wounds and a great sadness overtook him as he examined the escaping light. A single pearly tear fell from his right eye onto Hagrid's face. It was soon followed by another and another. They refused to stop until Hagrid's wounds were healed.

When the last of Hagrid's wounds closed Harry felt a great sense of accomplishment and he gave another trill by instinct and he found himself searching Hagrid for any escaping white light.

Merlin, Harry, that was amazing!

Yeah, Harry was still in a shocked state from the experience.

"Thanks, Harry, that was amazin!" interrupted Hagrid.

"Great work, mate, thought you weren't going to be able to do it for a moment there," said Ron.

Harry transformed back into himself. "I couldn't at first, but then I gave that short burst of song and something happened." Both Hermione and Hagrid eagerly leaned in, "I saw this light, white I think, emanating from your wounds and then tears started to fall."

Hagrid ran his hand thoughtfully through his beard, but did not say anything. Hermione, however, was eager to start hypothesizing, "That's astounding! I wonder if it has anything to do with the phoenix song being able to instill courage or fear."

Hagrid nodded in agreement, "Perhaps, but I think you four better get back to the castle." He cast a furtive eye to the bed, "Been a long journey and I'm needin some rest and sleep."

Hermione and Ron once again hid under the invisibility cloak, while Harry flamed both Ginny and himself. He was sure Hagrid enjoyed seeing him flame.

……………………………

Pushing all of his books into his bag, Harry made to leave Transfiguration for lunch.

"Mr. Potter, a word," called McGonagall from the front of the room. Harry motioned for Ginny and the others to leave; he could catch up to them at lunch. "I understand you are feeling under the weather." Harry gave her a perplexed look. McGonagall's stern look faltered, "An affliction that is going to hit you quite suddenly – just before your Care of Magical Creatures class." Harry's eyes widened in realization and he was about to explain when McGonagall cut him off, "It will not be necessary. Immediately after lunch you are to report to the Headmaster's office for the duration of class. He has something he wishes to discuss with you."

"Thanks, professor," said Harry and McGonagall gave him a curt smile.

Soon after lunch Harry found himself in Dumbledore's office. "This is a very good thing you are doing Harry," Harry jumped slightly at the headmaster's unexpected voice. "I think you need to be somewhere else."

Harry flamed above the Forbidden Forest and made a few large circles as he waited for the class to arrive. He reveled in the simple freedom of flying. It was even better as a phoenix than with a broom.

In case you haven't noticed…we're waiting, came Ginny's amused voice.

Harry began a leisurely dive.

Below, the class had gathered around Hagrid.

Ginny decided that now would be the best time to inform Hagrid of the change of plan, just in case Umbridge questioned Harry's absence. "Professor Hagrid, Professor McGonagall wanted me to tell you that Harry is in a meeting with Dumbledore."

"Oh, okay. Gather round class, gather round," Hagrid said waving his large arms. "I've got a special treat for ya today." Hagrid looked up expectantly and Harry steeped his dive startling most of the class with his arrival.

Ginny grinned wickedly, "Professor! Is this the phoenix Ruffles you were telling us about?" she sincerely hoped Hagrid would pick up the name.

The phoenix turned to glare at her. Was that necessary?

I could have let Hagrid name you.

Yeah, well he named Fang…Fang. He probably would have named me something vicious and manly.

You're forgetting that he thinks that phoenixes are interesting…remember Norbert and Fluffy?

Yeah, your right…he might have named me something like Ruffles.

Oh quit, mopping.

Unaware of the mental conversation, Hagrid was continuing with his lesson, "Er...yes that's right, this is Ruffles. Phoenixes are powerfully magical creatures. Now who can tell me their powers?"

To now one's surprise Hermione's hand was the first into the air. Several other people also raised their hands.

"Neville, name one power," said Hagrid pleased at the many hands.

"Hem, hem. Ah…Professor Hagrid, why did you not wait for my arrival? I sent you a note telling you I would be inspecting today," said Umbridge silkily. Harry glared at her as much as a phoenix can glare.

"I can' start me class late professor," answered Hagrid. "Well, Neville?"

Now that it came time to answer, Neville looked nervous, "Umm…I heard phoenixes can travel by fire."

"That's right – five points to Gryffindor," Hagrid gave Harry a look. He took off into the sky and flamed to Hagrid's hut still in view of the students before flaming back near them and perching on Hagrid's large shoulder. The class made appreciative noises of "oohs" and "aahs."

"Who's next? How about you," Hagrid pointed at Pavarti.

"Well, sir, phoenixes can also carry very heavy loads," she answered clearly.

"Another five points, how about someone from Slytherin?" said Hagrid trying not to be biased.

"Their tears have healing powers," came a voice from the back.

"Very good, Mr. Zibini; five points to Slytherin. Anything else?"

At his point Umbridge interrupted, "How long have you been teaching here?"

"Er…It's only me third year teachin," Hagrid said clearly losing his train of thought from the interruption.

"Oh, really?"

He cast Umbridge a glance as she began mingling among the students, "Um…yes…er…can anyone think of any other powers phoenixes have?"

Hermione's hand was the only one up this time. "Hermione," Hagrid called.

"Their song gives courage and hope to the pure of heart, while those who are impure will quail from it," she answered giving him the textbook response.

"Another five points to Gryffindor," said Hagrid trying to ignore Umbridge's hurtful questions to the students.

Harry decided to give a trill to help him. Hagrid did perk up as did many of the Gryffindors and even a few of the Slytherins. What surprised Harry were those who flinched. While Malfoy and most of the Slytherins flinching did not surprise him, both Dean and Seamus flinched as well. He did not get to see if Umbridge had flinched, not that he needed to see, but when she began asking Malfoy about Buckbeak's attack Harry gave another loud trill. He ruffled his feathers proudly as Malfoy and Umbridge flinched, but felt his elation disappear as he caught both Seamus and Dean flinching again.

His concentration was interrupted by a burst of flames high in the sky. A crimson and gold phoenix was now sailing downward towards him. Fawkes chirped above the class, "Hello, young one. It is good to see you again; it is a pity you no longer fly as much. I have missed our lessons."

"I've been afraid that Professor Dumbledore…"

Fawkes gave a trill that could only be a laugh, "Yes, my human is keeping a close watch on you with that glowing ball of his. But I insist that you and your mate come fly with me soon. If I am away at the same time, he will not worry."

Harry was not sure how to answer. Flying with Fawkes was always fun and almost always a learning experience; at the same time he did not want to alert Dumbledore that Ginny was a phoenix too. He saw little option but to be honest with the phoenix, "I don't want him to know Ginny is a phoenix too." The chirp he gave was decidedly sullen.

"Do you believe he does not already suspect?" replied Fawkes enigmatically. Harry blinked. "You can trust him. He is not always right, but his heart is in the right place." Fawkes settled down on the paddock's highest railing and gave him a piercing look, "Albus has lived alone for too long with the full weight of the world in his care. I fear that you may soon understand, but do not judge him too harshly. Remember that you will bear his burden one day, but you will have your mate. He cares a lot for you," Fawkes finished.

Harry fidgeted from foot to foot on Hagrid's shoulder. Both he and Ginny had been listening intently. Fawkes rarely spoke for so long. The class had been paying close attention to the chirps and trills they had been exchanging. Seeing one phoenix was a rare thing, but seeing two was unheard of.

Harry gave a trill of understanding and thanks. Again, he saw Dean and Seamus flinch. "Why do they flinch?"

Fawkes looked over the class and gave a long trill. Many of the Slytherins flinched and Harry noticed that, this time, neither Seamus nor Dean flinched. He cocked his head quizzically at Fawkes, "Remember, you are a phoenix, but you are also human." Harry considered the statement.

"You mean they're reacting to me?"

Fawkes gave an affirming chirp. "I can understand why Seamus might, we still aren't talking, but why Dean?"

"Human emotions are complex and there are many besides ill intent, which could make your song unpleasant to them," Fawkes explained as he preened. Hagrid was busy showing off the two phoenixes.

"What?" Harry asked confused.

I think Fawkes means things like envy, jealousy, or some other personal reason, Ginny sent while trying to pretend she was paying attention to Hagrid's lecture.

"Your mate is correct," said Fawkes.

Harry almost fell of Hagrid's shoulder in shock and gave a surprised caw that sounded very un-phoenix like. With a flap of his wings, he relocated to the paddock's railing. "How?"

Fawkes cocked his head to the side and stared hard at Harry as if judging him, We are phoenix.

Fawkes did not say another word, but sailed into the air and Harry knew that he was supposed to follow.

You can hear us?

Your thoughts must be focused to me. What we share is different from the bond with your mate.

Why didn't you say anything before? Asked Harry. He was slightly uncomfortable with having another voice in his head.

All creatures have secrets. Some more than others and many are not for humans, it was left unsaid that Fawkes expected Harry and Ginny to keep it a secret.

There's more to this, isn't there?

Fawkes tone held a bit of amusement, There is always more.

Harry followed Fawkes through a few dives and fast turns before deciding to return to Hagrid's class. He arrived just in time to hear Umbridge ask where he was and Ginny inform her that he was with Professor Dumbledore.

……………………………….

Albus Dumbledore looked across the desk at his two most remarkable students. They also happened to be his most worrisome. The past couple weeks had been very eventful. Professor Umbridge had spent almost the entire time as a toad; he could only assume it was in response to Harry's and the twins' quidditch ban.

"Mr. Potter, Mrs. Potter," he began. He hoped that by using 'Mrs. Potter' he was conveying both the seriousness of the situation and ensuring that Ginny remained calm. She was not going to like him taking away her fun.

"I have received disturbing news," he watched them unconsciously move closer together, "that the Ministry is going to try to put you on trial Harry. We will probably hear something about it shortly before or just after the end of term. But, I do not want you to worry about this – their charges should be easy to refute. However, I do not believe it would be wise for anything untold to happen to Professor Umbridge between now and then…though she does make for a rather fetching toad," Dumbledore allowed himself a small smile. He was going to have to invest in the twin's joke shop when it opened. "You both must watch each other's actions carefully – you are being watched closely!"

They both nodded their understanding, "Very good, are you sure you would not care for a lemon drop? No? They really are quite good. I've been addicted for…well," Dumbledore cleared his throat as he realized that he had gone off on a tangent. "There is one more thing I wanted to ask you. It is about Voldemort."

The two students stiffened, "What is it?" asked Harry with a tone of worry.

"Have you been having any more dreams?" Dumbledore could not think of an easier way to ask.

Harry fidgeted and looked down. Ginny answered, "He still dreams about the Department of Mysteries every once in awhile." Dumbledore nodded, it was to be expected.

Harry mumbled something, "What was that Harry? My ears are not as good as they used to be."

Looking up, Harry breathed in deeply, "I think he's getting frustrated." Dumbledore sent him a questioning look, "The dreams, when I have them, are more intense and the more I think about, the more I think its frustration. I didn't really notice until you asked…" he trailed off, unsure of what else to say.

"Quite alright. Are you sure you would not care for a lemon drop?" asked Dumbledore.

The question lightened the mood, "No, thank you, professor," they both chorused.

"You may go. Please, remember to be careful and do not antagonize Professor Umbridge," Dumbledore's beard shifted, "It will not be for too long. I expect everything to be cleared up by the end of the holidays."

Once Harry and Ginny had left, Dumbledore unfolded the letter and read it again. Yes, things will be cleared up…one way or another. Fudge was becoming increasingly troublesome and Umbridge's presence at the school was only making matters more difficult for Dumbledore. He was thankful for the letter's warning; he was also positive he had seen the neat and precise handwriting before.

Severus was also providing some disturbing news that confirmed what Harry had told him. An unspeakable had been put under the Imperius curse, Bode if he remembered correctly. Voldemort had sent him to try and retrieve the prophecy. In many ways it was a relief. Voldemort still did not know that only he and Harry could retrieve it from the self.

He was also becoming increasingly eager to begin testing his hypothesis about why Voldemort did not die when the Killing Curse rebounded. Dumbledore was trying to figure out a way to leave Hogwarts without arousing suspicion – he could not confirm his hypothesis if he was here.

He had suspected since that Halloween night that Voldemort had split his soul; however, the appearance of Riddle's diary had forced him to consider ideas that should have been impossible. The study of Horcruxes was extremely dark and, as far as Dumbledore knew, no one had ever succeeded in splitting their soul more than once.

Tom Riddle evidently had found a way. Dumbledore doubted Riddle's knowledge of Horcruxes was more extensive than his own. Few had access to those books and there were precious few alive who knew anything more than myths. Of course, Riddle had found valid information on how to perform the ceremony. Dumbledore shuddered; Riddle had not only split his soul in half, but had done so several times evidently. None of the literature said that it could not be done; indeed, not one even mentioned it. It would take an evil and twisted mind to even think of it. He shook his head in amazement; even among those who immersed themselves in the Dark Arts, few were willing to split their souls in their quests for immortality. Splitting the soul transformed it into something less than human. Hagrid had been right; there was not enough human left in Voldemort to die. Again, Dumbledore wondered how many times Riddle had split his soul.

Most had not even believed it was possible for the soul to be split more than once, but it appeared that when Tom Riddle, or Harry Potter for that matter, was involved the impossible became possible.

Behind him, Fawkes gave a reassuring and uplifting trill. Dumbledore turned around and softly stroked the phoenix's head. Ever since Hagrid's phoenix lesson the orb on his desk had softly glowed blue every weekend. Each time Fawkes had been missing as well so he had not been worried that Harry had left the safety of Hogwarts. He eyed the phoenix. Sometimes he thought that the bird knew more about was going on than anyone else. He was sure now that the phoenix knew that Harry had been an animagus long before anyone had suspected. Truth be told, Dumbledore was extremely happy Harry had become one. Especially his phoenix form; it provided an easy and almost unstoppable avenue of escape.

The panther form was also very formidable. It certainly reflects Ginny's personality, mused Dumbledore. The fact that Harry was also a panther made him wonder. It would make sense for Ginny to be a phoenix too – it would explain why Harry had two forms. The qualities of the phoenix fit Harry just as well as the panther's did Ginny; Dumbledore imagined that the bond must have made two animagus forms possible. Never had it been recorded before, but then a bonded pair had never become animagi after they had become bonded.

Harry and Ginny quietly made their way back to the common room.

He looked older, Harry sent. For the first time, it really hit him that Dumbledore was an old man.

He did. I think he's worried about something.

That doesn't narrow things down…Harry looked around, You know we don't have to go back so soon.

Ginny stopped walking and turned to face him. She leaned her back and cocked her head, Oh we don't? And what else do you have in mind?

Harry looked down into her mischievously glinting eyes and was about to suggest they duck into the nearest alcove, but the soft patter of feat distracted him. Mrs. Norris…I've got an idea. Harry changed into a panther, followed shortly by Ginny, and they were racing after a thoroughly terrified cat.

Twenty minutes later they were walking through the portrait hole, "I must say, Harry, that when you said we did not have to come back immediately I thought you were suggesting something a tad bit more provocative." Harry blushed and Ginny gave a small laugh. They both knew exactly what he had been thinking. It amused Ginny to no end that Harry blushed even though he knew that she was more than a willing partner. "But, I must say, you do know how to show a girl a good time."

They collapsed on the nearest couch. Harry looked at the stairs with a little trepidation. Dreams were not really bothering him, but going to sleep would mean tomorrow would only come quicker. Despite their near constant pranking of Umbridge, this year was turning out to be Harry's worst year at Hogwarts. Umbridge was trying, quite effectively to make his life miserable. Her most notable achievement was his quidditch ban. Hermione had tried to cheer him up by telling him it would give him more time to study for O.W.L.s, but he missed quidditch.

Ginny had joined the team and taken his spot as seeker. Between her natural talent, flying at the Manor, and her firebolt she was very good. Despite this, she was constantly complaining about how it would be far more interesting to be a chaser – she said that seeking was boring. Unfortunately, the two new beaters were nowhere near as good as Fred and George had been. To make matters even worse, Ron was still playing dismally at practice.

Beyond quidditch, there was Snape. Snape's response to their confrontation was to studiously ignore Harry. Harry would have found his behavior a breath of fresh air, but every time he looked at the greasy haired professor he remembered what he had seen in Snape's mind. It made Potions even longer than the classes already were.

The only thing that was giving him any joy was the D.A. He enjoyed the teaching, especially since it was something Umbridge and Ministry obviously did not want them to know. Just thinking about the Ministry made his blood boil. He could not believe that Fudge and his cronies were being so stupid and blind. They were going to get people killed if they did not allow them to properly prepare.

It was with this in mind that Harry now spent most of his time studying Defense Against the Dark Arts. His studies were remarkably different than the dull reading Umbridge assigned. Harry focused on anything he thought could be useful. His knowledge of curses was already pretty extensive thanks to the Tri-Wizard tournament, but his studies had increased this knowledge greatly.

In the D.A., Harry was trying to put the knowledge to good use. It had only taken a few sessions for him to realize that most people desperately needed to master the basics. Thus, the majority of the D.A. meeting was focused on the simple hexes and jinxes. Expelliarmus, impedimenta, diffindo, and stupefy were the main four. Along with the more offensive spells, every meeting spent sometime on protego, which he was convinced was going to be an extremely useful spell after his experience with Snape.

However, Harry was also aware that, thanks to multiple comments from Zacharias Smith, no one wanted to only practice simple spells. Conjuring spells like incararcerous, avis, and aguamenti were also practiced. Smith had been rather vocal about not seeing how sending birds or water at an opponent was useful. A quick duel had shown him how useful a distracting and unexpected type of attack could be. That they were all sixth year spells was also seen as impressive. Harry was trying to build them up to casting a patronus.

Arranging meetings had become much easier after Hermione had figured out the protean charm. She had charmed fake galleons to display the time and day of the next meeting. Everyone had been extremely impressed as the charm was extremely complicated. The amazement had been broken by Ron suggesting that she do the same to her History of Magic notes. His suggestion had not been well received.

The other activity that he had anticipated enjoying, but now found dreadful, was helping Ron with his animagus transformation. Ron was showing no more talent at the transformation than he was at quiddtich. Harry was beginning to wonder if there was any hope for him. The most Ron had been able to achieve was making his nails slightly longer.

The rest of term crawled by slowly. Fred and George seemed to tire of harassing Umbridge and had returned to testing products for their joke shop. The inevitable confrontation between them and Hermione had occurred with Hermione forcing them to back down only by threatening to tell their mother. The result had not been what Hermione had anticipated Harry was sure. The twins had stopped testing their products on first years and had turned to testing it on themselves. Although, they secretly confided in Harry and Ginny that most of the uncomfortable part of the research was done.

Hermione had been indignant for a week when they had started to sell skiving snackboxes, but she could not find a rule to stop them. Then she had caught Ron with a few during the last few days of term. The resulting row had been extraordinary. Harry and Ginny had sat transfixed as the argument went from prefect responsibilities to personal lives. When it had reached the latter the row had exploded. Ron had accused Hermione of writing to Krum. Hermione had not responded as Harry had expected. Instead of denying it, she had admitted it and said that at least Krum had enough courage to ask a girl out. Ron had then accused her of consorting with the enemy.

The next day Ron and Hermione spoke only in clipped tones, but Harry took it as a good sign that they were speaking at all. Unfortunately, Harry was wrong. The next night Ron and Hermione were once again arguing fiercely about their personal lives. Harry wished Ginny was there; she would be better at understanding what exactly the problem was…if she did not understand what it was then she would have solved the problem simply by hexing one or both of them. But, Ginny was not there. She was serving detention with Filch after being making a flippant remark about Umbridge making a better toad than a person in DADA. Normally she would have eagerly helped him, but all of her attention was focused on carefully repotting some rather dangerous plants.

"I. Don't. Consort. With. The. Enemy! YOU. DO!" Ron said pronouncing each word like a whip.

Hermione looked like if she were any angrier her bushy hair would explode in flame, "NO – you just try to kill him for dating your sister!"

"I APOLOGIZED FOR THAT! You insufferable know-it-all," Harry groaned.

"HA! That's why I'm doing better in all my classes than you – because I study! Unlike you, you spend all your time playing that stupid game quidditch," responded Hermione. Harry had a sense of foreboding. Quidditch was a very sensitive subject for Ron right now.

"Oh really?" Ron's voice had taken on a reckless tone and Harry knew instinctively he needed to stop what ever the redhead was going to say. He began moving toward them, but it was too late. Ron opened his mouth, "Well I'm learning to be an animagus!"

Hermione's eyes went wide and several emotions crossed over her face. She rounded not on Ron, but on the approaching Harry, "YOU ARE TEACHING HIM?" It would have been futile to deny it so he nodded, "…and not me?" her voice was small and betrayed. She did not wait for an answer and ran up to her dormitory.

"What did you have to do that for?" demanded Harry as he rounded on Ron.

Ron looked shocked and mortified. "I didn't mean to…I just…I…"

"You wanted to show her up! That's what you meant to do!" accused Harry in a frustrated voice. Harry waved off further attempts by Ron to apologize and went to bed. He would talk to Ginny tomorrow and figure out what to do.

Harry woke with a sudden yell and his hand went to his scar. It was burning painfully. Voldemort was extremely irritated and frustrated. Something had gone wrong. He looked around; no one else in the dormitory was awake. He knew that Seamus and Dean, after almost five years, had grown used to loud sounds due to Ron's and Neville's snores.

It came as no real surprise when the door to the dormitory creaked open and admitted a mane of red hair.

Are you all right? asked Ginny as she sat on the edge of Harry's bed, one of her hands clasping his.

Yeah, but Voldemort's angry. It must be something big for this to happen.

Should we tell Dumbledore?

Harry considered, In the morning. I don't even know what he's angry about.

Ginny nodded and pushed him over so that there was room on the bed for her to lie down.

Harry willingly wrapped his arms around her and chuckled quietly before whispering in her ear, "Ron – you know your brother, who happens to be in the bed next to us – is more understanding, but I think you're trying to push him over the edge."

I don't hear you complaining. Unless you want me to leave? She teased back mentally.

No, as if to emphasize his statement Harry's arms tightened around her, Just pointing out the obvious.

He can't get mad at you anyway.

Why's that? Asked Harry thinking that Ron still would not take well to seeing his little sister in bed with him.

Because he told Hermione about the animagus training, she responding with a hint of frustration and anger at the carelessness of her brother.

What are we going to do about that?

Figure it out tomorrow, Ginny sent as she closed her eyes. Harry smiled and closed his eyes contentedly; his previous scar trouble forgotten.