When Harry met Luna
Synopsys: What if Harry met Luna earlier than cannon but they kept their relationship secret.
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Harry was wondering through the halls of Hogwarts, under his invisibility cloak. The whole school had been calling him a Dark Lord in training because he was found to be a Parcelmouth. He had taken to using his cloak to avoid the stares and whispers of his fellow students. During his travels, he overheard a conversation between his two best friends, Ron and Hermione. Ron spoke.
"Hermione what if Harry really is the heir of Slytherin?"
"I don't know. Even if he is that doesn't mean he'll go dark." Hermione answered.
"But it is possible." Ron said.
"Yes it is but I'm not about to abandon Harry because of his possible bloodline. It's not his fault who his ancestors were."
"I know it's not his fault; I'm just saying it's possible. He's my best mate and I won't leave him; I'm just scared." Ron said strongly.
"I'm scared too." Hermione said mournfully.
Even they had their doubts about his intentions but refused to leave his side. He couldn't really blame them, he had his own doubts, but it still hurt. It was Saturday, so Harry just wandered around looking for some peace and quiet, but found nothing but hurtful conversations and insults he was never meant to hear. He hadn't felt this alone since his time before Hogwarts.
Harry happened upon an unused classroom on the fifth floor and removed his cloak. It was nothing special, just an empty room with a few desks and chairs. He sat in the teacher's chair and pretended to be a teacher of defense, since his current one was useless. He wandered over to the window and enjoyed the pleasant view of the courtyard when the door opened. He turned to see who was intruding upon his new found sanctuary and was met by the sight of a young girl. She had waist length dirty blond hair, silver-blue eyes that seemed to protrude from her sockets like she was surprised. She wore strange looking jewelry and her wand was tucked behind her ear. She spoke.
"Hello. Are you hiding from the wrackspurts as well?"
"What are wrackspurts?" Harry asked slightly annoyed and confused.
"They infect your brain and make your thinking fuzzy; the entire school in infested with them."
"That would explain a lot, but I doubt it. I was trying to find a place to think in peace. Who are you anyway?" Harry said annoyed.
"My name is Luna Lovegood. Who are you?"
"Everyone knows me."
"True, but it's impolite not to introduce yourself." Luna said in a dreamy voice.
"My name is Harry Potter," he said as his annoyance grew.
"It's nice to meet you. I don't believe you are a dark wizard; the Potters were always a light family."
"There's always a first time. How do you know about my family? What else do you know?" He asked fiercely.
"The Potters were always quite influential. I could tell you what I know, if you like?" Luna said sweetly.
"I . . . I'd like that. Thank you." Harry said politely.
The two sat down on the window sill and talked while enjoying the view. Harry learned so many things about his family he couldn't believe. During this time with Luna, he had forgotten about his other problems; at least for the moment. Luna was impressed with his cloak and she wrapped it around herself with only her head showing, pretending to be a haunted head looking for a body. Harry never laughed so hard in his life and felt better than he had in days. It was close to dinner time so they decided to part ways but promised to meet here tomorrow. Luna surprised Harry by hugging him and he said.
"Why did you do that?"
"You looked like you needed it. Hasn't anyone ever hugged you before?"
"No; not that I can remember anyway," he said regretfully.
"My mum always told me, if a person doesn't get enough hugs everyday they become cranky and irritable."
"Maybe that what's wrong with Snape?" He said.
"No, I think he just needs a laxative draught."
Harry burst into another fit of laughter and Luna joined him. She walked up to him and slid her arms around his waist. Harry wasn't sure what to do but Luna told him how to return the hug. They stood there for a few moments holding each other and enjoyed the simple comfort they were sharing. Each of them made a truly special friend.
The two new friends met in what they now called, their room, the following day. Harry learned more about the Potter family and about Luna. Luna spoke.
"The Potter's were never very political but had strong views on equality for all people."
"You mean like muggle-bornes and half-bloods?" Harry asked.
"Yes, but also for other magical races like Goblins and House Elves. That was one of the reasons they were always a prime target for dark wizards. That and the fact they were a very wealthy family."
"I saw what my parents left me. I didn't think it was that much compared to like the Malfoy's."
"You've been to the Potter Family Vault? Normally you wouldn't be able to enter it until you come of age. Is it as magnificent as the rumors say?" Luna asked excitedly.
"I have a family vault? I never knew that. How did you know about it? Do you think it's still there?" Harry asked confused.
"There are books that give a general history of older families. We have copies in the Ravenclaw collection. It is strange that those particular tomes are absent from the school library. Perhaps the finkledings removed them; they enjoy hiding things."
"Maybe but I think someone removed them on purpose. I'm starting to feel that I'm being kept in the dark about a lot of things. I wish I was smart enough to make it into Ravenclaw, then we could hang out more often." Harry said.
"You don't seem to be a buffoon. What is the problem?" Luna asked bluntly.
Harry didn't want to tell Luna the real reason but she would see right through him. He took a deep breath and said, "When I was in muggle primary school, my aunt and uncle would punish me if I did better than my cousin in school. They never hit me but I would get more chores with less food."
"I understand. Does your cousin attend Hogwarts?"
"No, but I don't want to lose Ron as a friend." Harry retorted.
"So you replaced your cousin with Ron and now you slack off because of it. Interesting." Luna said in a dreamy tone. She continued, "If Ron was a true friend he would understand. Does he feel that way about Hermione?"
"He's always pestering her about studying all the time. He also begs her for help when his work is due. I do the same thing. I can't believe I'm using her like that but what can I do. The way Hermione studies is just; I don't know; it doesn't work for me." Harry said ashamed.
"There are other ways to study. I can teach you the way I study. I also know of several books on studying techniques in the school library. There is an old saying. Give a man a fish, he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish and he eats forever." Luna said smiling.
"You would teach me to fish; I mean study?" Harry said.
"Yes, to both. I enjoy fishing as well. On one condition."
"What is it?" Harry said nervously.
"Go to Madam Pompfrey and ask for an exam. Tell her you want some nutrient potions to help put on weight. You'll be starting puberty soon and any problems could become permanent." Luna stated plainly.
"What types of problems?" Harry asked.
"A wizard needs to eat properly everyday if he wishes to have a strong core. If your body is weak then it will not be able to handle the stress of more difficult spells or extended magic use. Besides, you seem a bit short for your age and you do want children someday." Luna said as a matter of fact.
"I never knew. I . . . thank you." Harry said.
"You're welcome."
In the short time he had known Luna, Harry learned much about his family history, this world and himself. Luna's blunt and straight forward demeanor was both annoying and welcome. Luna didn't pry nor judge; she just listened and spoke her mind. They separated for lunch then met again before dinner. Each time they separated they would share a hug that warmed them thoroughly. Harry never felt such comfort and was more than grateful.
That Monday after classes, Harry went to the hospital wing for an exam. Madam Pomfrey wasted no time complying with Harry's request. She prescribed nutrient potions, a specific diet, and exercise program and growth potions as well. By the end of the year, he should be at a normal height and weight for his age. Harry met Luna afterwards and told her Pomfrey's findings. If he had waited any longer, he would have always been short. She retrieved the books about ancient magical families and studying techniques and gave them to a sincerely thankful Harry. Over the course of the next two weeks, Harry learned different techniques that worked for him and his grades improved. He also learned that the Potter family had one of the largest private libraries in existence but had no idea were it was located. Harry's academic improvements did not go unnoticed by Hermione. She asked.
"Harry your grades are really improving. What are you doing differently?"
"You didn't do a dark ritual to make you smarter did you?" Ron teased but Harry was not amused.
"No Ron." Harry spat angrily. "I'm getting some tutoring, that's where I've been lately."
"I would have helped you." Hermione said in her bossy tone.
"I know you would have but I'm not being tutored in my subjects. I'm learning how to study properly. I don't mean to offend you Hermione but your way doesn't work very well for me. Besides, you won't always be there to help me; I need to stand on my own some time." Harry defended.
"I'm not offended but I still would have helped you if you would have said something." Hermione said unconvincingly.
"Oi, can I get in on this?" Ron asked.
"The books are in the library. I just found someone to help sort me out a bit. Ask Professor Flitwick or McGonagall to find someone to help; I bet Hermione would help you." Harry said.
"No thanks. It sounds like a lot of work. Want to play chess?" Ron replied.
Hermione just rolled her eyes and shook her head and went back to work. Harry politely refused to play and continued his work as well. Over the course of the school year, Luna and Harry would meet in their room whenever they could. They began decorating the room with things they found in other rooms and from what the House-Elves would find for them; Luna had befriended the Ravenclaw elf that was charged with cleaning the girl's dorm. Harry and Luna agreed to keep their friendship a secret because her house-mates didn't like her and Harry was still thought to be a dark wizard; besides they liked having this relationship to themselves. Harry asked.
"Luna why don't your dorm-mates like you?"
"I have different beliefs than they do. I believe in magical creatures that no one else does and it makes them feel uncomfortable. My father is the editor of the Quibbler and most people don't care for it." Luna said solemnly.
"I've read the Quibbler and I think it's interesting. You and your father have traveled to some interesting places and seen some really cool things. Just because you haven't found the Snorkacks yet doesn't mean you should give up because other people say so." Harry replied.
"Do you believe in the Snorkacks?"
"I honestly don't know. I do know that in the muggle world, scientists are finding new species all the time; they even found a prehistoric fish thought to be extinct. I hope they do exist so you can prove them wrong."
"Thank you for believing in me." Luna said blushing.
"Thank you for being my friend." Harry said.
The two shared a warm hug that felt different somehow; at least to Harry it did. Although they were still young, they both felt something; something wonderful.
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The weeks went on and the attacks on the muggle-bornes began. Harry was more frightened than ever but also thankful for his secret friend. Harry met Luna in their room and said.
"Now I'm hearing voices that no one else can hear. What if I am going mad?"
"You're not going mad, you're probably hearing the Basilisk in the walls."
"The thing that attacked Mrs. Norris and Colin was a Basilisk? What exactly is a Basilisk?" Harry asked.
"The Basilisk is the king of serpents. You are a Parcelmouth so you can hear it speak. It is strange that all of the books that contained anything on Basilisks have been removed from the library and the Ravenclaw collection as well."
"That can't be a coincidence but how did you find out?"
"I have my own copy of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them; it's a must for the serious Snorkack hunter."
"But why remove the books? Since they all contain the information, someone already knows what the creature is."
"The only people that can remove books from the library are Madam Pince and the Headmaster." Luna said plainly.
"But why? Why would Dumbledore hide that information?" Harry said confused.
"He knows it's a Basilisk and he knows you are a Parcelmouth. Perhaps, he doesn't want you to look for it." Luna said.
"Or maybe he doesn't want me to look for it yet. He's setting me up like he did last year." Harry admonished.
"What do you mean?"
"Last year, he left clues about the Philosopher's Stone. All year he let me learn just a bit more and in the end, I went after it. Maybe he's doing it again. What does that book say about them?"
"Not much but there are other books at Flourish and Blotts that contain more information. I could ask daddy to pick them up but they are a bit pricey." Luna explained.
"I have more than enough money. Let me know how much. The more I learn the better prepared I will be." Harry said strongly.
"You're beginning to sound like a Ravenclaw Mr. Potter." Luna teased.
"I think you're a bad influence on me Miss Lovegood." Harry replied with a smile.
"Who me?" Luna said in a dreamy tone fluttering her eye lashes.
The two friends burst into laughter and made plans to buy a few books.
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The year went on and Harry was the center of attention because of the recent attacks. Luna was returning home for the Christmas holiday and promised to buy the books they needed. The two friends exchanged gifts prior to her departure. Luna gave Harry a butterbeer cap necklace, like hers, that Harry wore proudly. Harry gave Luna a charm bracelet he owl ordered. She never received such a wonderful gift and asked Harry to place it on her. The two friends shared a warm hug that for some reason, to Harry, continued to feel better. He gave Luna a large amount of galleons to buy the things they needed and made her promise to treat herself with any left over. She agreed only if Harry saved some of the polyjuice potion Hermione was making. He agreed but didn't want to know why.
When Luna returned, the two met in their room. Even though it had only been a short while, they missed each other greatly. Luna had purchased several books on magical creatures and others. Harry spoke.
"How did you buy so many? Why did you buy this one?" He asked holding a book.
"I know where to find the best deals. We don't have much money so we have to shop around. Diagon Alley isn't the only place to go, it's just the most centrally located. That particular book I wanted you to look at and give me your opinion." Luna responded.
"I wonder why the Weasley's don't shop around. They said they go to Diagon Alley for everything."
"We had to do multiple apparations to get to the other shops. It's probably not very convenient for them to do that sort of thing. The shops we go to aren't bunched together like the alley." Luna explained.
Harry accepted this explanation and began glancing over the book Luna suggested. He quickly realized it was a type of math book and he was familiar with most of the formulas. He spoke.
"I know most of this stuff; I learned it in muggle school. It's basically an algebra book but some of the stuff further back I never heard of. What is this book anyway?"
"That is the current text book for beginning Arithmancy. If you already know most of it, you should take it next year." Luna explained.
"I was going to take Care and Divination but this seems easy." Harry said.
"Divination isn't something you can learn; you either have the gift or not. If you're still interested in it you can buy the text book and self study."
"I might do that. I never knew there were other places to shop. What kind of stores are there?" He asked.
"Diagon Alley is our equivalent of a muggle shopping mall and most of the stores have contracts with Hogwarts and the Ministry. There are other stores spaced all over the country but most people don't bother with them; unless they need specific things or are in the area. The stores are smaller and more family oriented and they can't afford the rent of the alley. Knockturn Alley is the same way. There are many disreputable stores there but many are just specialty shops that can't afford the rent. Do you think that Ollivander's is the only wand shop around? If he were to die; what then?" Luna explained.
"I never thought of it that way. The more I learn about this world the more questions I have. What would I do without you?" Harry asked playfully.
"I feel the same way about you. You're my best friend." Luna said bashfully.
"You're my best friend to."
"What about Ronald and Hermione?"
"They were my first friends but I've talked to you about things I've never talked to them about. You've helped me in ways they couldn't. I don't think I can thank you enough." Harry said hiding his embarrassment.
Luna felt her heart flutter; she was taken aback by Harry's statement. She walked over to Harry and hugged him warmly. She always felt something for Harry but now it was different and she liked it. Harry returned the hug with equal warmth and never wanted to let her go but didn't know why but at the moment he didn't care. The two friends separated then Harry told Luna about his adventure over the holiday. When he got to the part about Hermione's mishap with the cat hair, Luna chuckled aloud. She asked Harry if he saved the potion and he handed her the remaining potion that had been properly stored. He asked.
"Why did you want this?"
"It's not for me, it's for you."
"Huh?"
"You have a hard time going out in public because people recognize you. You drink this and you can walk around unnoticed for a while." Luna explained.
"I never would have thought of that." Harry said.
"That's what I'm here for silly." Luna exclaimed playfully.
"I'm surprised you're not a Slytherin."
"The only difference between Ravenclaw and Slytherin is the fact that we want knowledge for knowledge sake. Slytherins want knowledge for personal gain. Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs aren't much different either. Gryffindors are lions and they are loyal to the pride; Hufflepuffs are loyal to their house and ideals." Luna explained.
"I never thought of it that way. The houses are more alike than people want to admit. Hermione could have been in Ravenclaw but she asked for Gryffindor but she never said why." Harry replied.
"Probably because of you. I know of several people in my house that wanted to be a Griff because of you." Luna said.
Harry agreed with her assessment but didn't like it. That fact that someone would deny themselves their proper house because of him was disturbing. The only reason he didn't want Slytherin was because of the bad publicity he received prior to his sorting. He began feeling more and more used by the moment.
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The school year continued along and Harry was feeling more and more uncomfortable. The insults and whispers were getting to him. Even though Ron and Hermione were with him; he knew they had their doubts. If it wasn't for Luna he would have been completely alone. The whispers finally stopped with the latest attack just before the Gryffindor/Hufflepuff game. Hermione had been petrified.
When Hermione had been petrified, Harry leaned on Luna heavily and was thankful for her presence.
One day after visiting Hermione in the hospital wing, Harry found Luna writing on the walls. He asked.
"What is that you're writing?"
"These are Runes but I'm not going to tell you what they say." she said mischievously.
"Why not? What are you up to?" he asked.
"If you want to know what this means, you have to translate them yourself. I promise you'll like what it says." She said in a dreamy tone.
"But how do I translate them?" Harry begged.
"Shall I get some cheese to go with that whine. You have to take Ancient Runes to learn how. My mum taught me some before she died. Trust me it's worth it."
"Okay you win. Next year is going to be tough though. Care, Arithmancy and now Runes. Oi. What are you trying to do to me woman?" He teased.
"Whatever do you mean?" She said sweetly while batting her eyes.
Harry just threw up his arms in defeat and agreed. He was truly curious as to the meaning of this strange message. He grew to trust Luna; she never once steered him wrong. She was painfully honest and forthcoming with answers; plus he didn't want to stop getting hugged.
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After Harry rescued Ginny from the Chamber of Secrets, he told Luna everything that happened. She just listened and thought about what had happened. When Harry finished his story, Luna spoke.
"What do you know about the Phoenix?"
"Just what Dumbledore told me and what I've read. They are virtually immortal; their tears have healing powers; they can lift very heavy loads and their feathers are used as wand cores."
"You forgot a very important fact. Phoenix are fiercely loyal to their bonded. They would never abandon them for another no matter how loyal that person was to their bonded."
"Dumbledore sent Fawkes to me. He knew I needed help but didn't want to come himself. Why? Why is he doing this?"
"You told me that last year you faced You-Know-Who then you faced him again this year. This can not be a coincidence. Maybe you should ask him why." Luna said.
"I did ask Dumbledore, twice, why Voldemort came after me but he won't tell me."
"Not Dumbledore, ask Mr. Riddle why. If things keep going the way they are, you will face him again. I believe he would answer you truthfully if only to gloat."
"The thought of facing him again makes me nervous but you're probably right about him telling me." Harry said sadly. He felt betrayed by his supposed mentor.
"What are you going to do with the Basilisk?" Luna asked.
"What do you mean?"
"The law states that if you kill a magical creature in self defense or in defense of another; it is yours to harvest; if its parts are useful. I know that Basilisk parts are rare and expensive and you would fetch quite a large sum if you harvested it."
"You mean we would make a large sum. I couldn't do it alone; I wouldn't mind a nice pair of boots though." Harry said.
"I'll talk to daddy about helping us. He knows much about such things. Basilisk skin is supposed to be very beautiful; I wouldn't mind a nice jacket myself or maybe a dress." Luna stated.
"The dress would look good on you." Harry said. He thought to himself, why did I say that? It's true though.
"Thank you Harry." Luna said hiding her blush. Luna thought to herself, did Harry just flirt with me? He's the only one that can make me blush. We are much too young for that but a girl can dream can't she.
The two chatted for a while then parted ways. Hermione awoke and gave Harry a bone-crushing hug for his actions. Harry's only thought was, Luna's hugs are way better.
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Before the end of term, Harry and Luna met for the last time. Harry said.
"I'm going to miss you."
"I'll miss you too. Daddy and I are traveling to Sweden so we won't be able to write until we return." Luna said sadly.
"I wish I could come with you."
"Me too." Luna said.
"How do you do it? I over heard several people talking badly about you. I wanted to hex them into next year for it. How can you let them do that without getting angry?"
"It does bother me but in the end they are just words. I know they call me Looney but I know the truth and so do you and that helps. Sometimes I take their words and reverse them and think of something funny about them instead. Getting angry just gives them fuel for the fire and proves they beat me."
"I'll try to remember that when I'm back with my relatives. I just don't know how I'll stay on my diet while I'm there."
"You have grown some. You look much healthier than when we first met." She said fighting a blush. "What about asking that house-elf you freed? I'm certain he would help."
"I'll ask. Dobby can you hear me?" Harry said.
"Harry Potter is calling Dobby. What can Dobby do for bestest wizard of all."
"Dobby this is my friend Luna. Luna this is Dobby." He introduced his friends to each other.
"Dobby would you help me this summer please?" Harry asked.
"Dobby would be happy to help the great Harry Potter. What is Harry Potter needing from Dobby?" The excitable elf said practically bouncing.
"I need you to bring me food this summer. I'm on a special diet and need to keep it up. Can you do that?"
"Dobby can do. Headmaster is giving Dobby a job here with pay. Dobby can bring Harry Potter food from kitchens to make him strong."
"Thank you Dobby."
"Harry Potter is thanking Dobby." He said crying and hugging Harry's legs tightly.
Luna smiled at Dobby's antics and Harry's apparent distress. She knew Dobby would be relentless in helping Harry. Harry separated from Dobby and the excitable elf disappeared. The two friends shared one last hug before departing; this would be a difficult summer for both to bear.
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Disclaimer: I do not own anything Harry Potter.
A/N: This will be more of a back story instead of a retelling of cannon; hopefully. Harry will have someone other than his standard friends to rely upon and give him a different viewpoint. The thing with the missing books about Basilisks is a speculation but it made sense. If Hermione could find the information, others could as well; most certainly Dumbledore. The thing about Fawkes is speculation as well.
