WOW! You guys are so amazing. I thank each and every one of individually with the greatest and deepest amount of respect, gratitude and love in my heart. I don't want to stop writing so I'm glad that you want some more. Alright so here is what I am thinking…..
Two sets of twins for both J/L and S/S. I do think it would certainly make things a little bit more exciting in the marauder household. Lol
Anyways I'll talk to you soon. Thanks again. :)
Tonks sat upright in bed with her back supported by two pillows. Remus was sitting in a chair next to her. They both wore warm smiles as they welcomed their friends into the room in St Mungos.
Lily and Shari arrived with two large bouquets of flowers, all variations of colours ranging from red, purple, yellow and orange. They placed them on her bedside table in two, water filled, glass vases. Sirius arrived with a large box of chocolates, fresh from Sam's chocolate factory in Hogsmeade which was Tonks favourite shop because they were all made fresh everyday in that shop. James arrived with some clothes as Tonks requested along with some of her favourite magazines.
Lily and Shari were standing over the two cots looking at the new marauders fondly. They were both sleeping soundly.
Shari picked up one of the baby's hand as she rubbed her little fingers softly and she smiled over at her friend who was smiling broadly.
"I can't believe that I forgot how delicate they are Lils." She whispered.
"I know Shars. They are so beautiful. In another six months we will be here too." They both grinned at each other before Shari gently released her grip on the child's hand and went over to the others, who were congregated around Tonk`s bed, with Lily.
James and Sirius smiled at their wives as they both swung an arm around their shoulders. Lily and Shari interlinked their fingers through their husbands.
"So have you guys thought of names yet for the twins?" James asked.
Tonks and Remus smiled at one another as Remus who was standing sat on the bed and placed his hand in Tonks`hands and said
"Yes we actually have James as it happens…."
"It wasn't easy mind you…..Tonks said with a sigh
"….But I think we have finally settled on two which suit them.
"Well come on Moony don't keep us waiting any longer mate." Sirius said impatiently.
Tonks and Remus shared another soft glance as they said….
"….Roxanna and Danielle…."
"That is what we have decided to call them." Remus said happily.
"Roxy and Danni Lupin…..it does have a certain ring to it." Sirius said as the others chuckled lightly.
"Well Remus, Tonks for what it is worth I love the names."
"Aww thank you Lils. I knew I could count on you." Tonks said smiling at her friend.
"Yeah they are simple yet different…."Shari replied smiling at everyone.
"I agree. They are definitely not what I personally expected but I think they are nice nonetheless."
"Well James my first name is definitely unique so we wanted something simple and not so tongue tying for the girls."
A few weeks later the third task was finally ready to proceed. James had managed to convince Fudge to postpone it until the middle of May as opposed to the end of April. All was quiet at Hogwarts. There was no more strange disappearances, no more unsolved murders….. James continued to be cautious around Karkaroff none the less.
The morning of the third task Moody had placed the Tri-wizard cup in the middle of the maze which is essentially what lay ahead of the four contestants. Obviously nobody but Moody knew the exact location of the cup. The marauders were patrolling the grounds extra carefully today however. If something was going to go wrong then today would be the day. Harry sprang up suddenly from his bed with sweat dripping from his forehead. His breathing was quite fast, faster that normal. He wiped the perspiration from his forehead with the back of his hand before reaching over to his bedside locker to find his glasses and put them on. He then turned to his left and could see that it was dawn; the light had just broken through the darkness. His fellow Gryffindors appeared to be sleeping soundly still so Harry got out of bed quietly, put on his jeans, jumper and shoes and left the Gryffindor common room. He wasn't quite sure where he was going. The only thing he did know was that he had to get out of there. As he made his way towards the large oak doors he heard someone calling his name but he kept walking nonetheless. The person calling him caught up with him as he got outside, grabbed him by the arm and turned him round to face him. Harry looked momentarily into his godfather's anxious eyes before paying attention to the ground. Sirius relinquished his grip on Harry's arm as he cupped his face with both hands.
"Harry what is going on? Did you not hear me calling you?" He asked anxiously as he removed his hands from his godsons face.
Harry looked at him sternly and said
"Yes, but I didn't want to talk. I just needed to get some air before….."
Sirius frowned noting Harry had trailed off and said….
"…..Before what?" He received a blank look. "Harry before what?" Sirius pressed grabbing him by his arms again.
"Nothing Sirius! I'm fine. Just leave me alone." Harry exclaimed wriggling out of his arms and running off across the grounds.
"Dumbledore was right. Harry is not dealing with this third task at all." Sirius said to himself as he turned to go see the infamous headmaster.
Harry ran until he could not run anymore. He eventually fell down by the great oak tree overlooking the black lake. He sighed deeply to himself as he rested his head against the tree trunk.
"So it's not just me who is feeling the pressure then." Harry started as he looked up to find Cedric standing there beside him smiling softly. Harry reciprocated lightly as Cedric sat down beside him and hugged his knees while he inhaled deeply. They both sat in silence for a few minutes staring out at the lake before Cedric broke it as he asked….
"Did you ever have this dream where it seems so real that when you wake up you kind of think for those first few moments that you are dreaming now?" He looked at Harry who shared his anxiety. Harry nodded and said "All the time. It's been happening more lately though."
"The third task is affecting you too then?"
Harry looks at him pensively before he answers.
"Cedric until this tournament I don't think I even knew that you existed. I must admit when I was first entered I was terrified that you and the other two might think I was some spoilt kid or whatever. I now regard you as a friend and I trust you which is why I'm going to tell you something that I think is important."
"You can tell me Harry. I'm listening." Cedric said sincerely.
"Ok well the thing is……my dreams for a while now have been based on Voldemort. I see things that I shouldn't see…."
"Well like what Harry?" Cedric asked anxiously.
"Well last night I dreamt that I was at this graveyard……I heard Voldemort`s voice……he was plotting something that I don't doubt involved me in some way…..he saw me but I woke up before anything happened."
"Wait a minute Harry. Are you saying that these dreams…..are real? Like you are actually really there and……"
"Yes Cedric. That is exactly what I am saying."
"Wow!"
"I have been doing occlumency with Remus but….."
"It's not working right now?"
"I told him I had it under control but the last few nights I guess I haven't….."
"Well you know that….."
"Harry there you are. I need you to follow me now please."
"What's wrong dad?"
"Hey Cedric……nothing I just need you for a moment so please follow me."
Harry stared at his father perplexed but got up and began to follow him.
"See you later James. Harry….you know where I am if you need me ok?" Cedric said smiling at his fellow contestant and what he now considered to be his friend.
"Yeah, thanks Cedric. I really appreciate that. The same applies to you." They both smiled as Harry left with James and Cedric focused his attention to the lake.
Back at the castle Sirius was waiting with Remus and Moody for James and Harry. As they arrived Sirius ran out to greet Harry who wasn't as keen to see his godfather.
"Did you rat me out Sirius? I hope you feel better now!"
"Harry I merely expressed concern of your behaviour earlier on. What is the matter with you kid?"
"There is nothing wrong Sirius! I just don't want to talk to you or anyone else here for that matter!" He ran off towards the common room with his name being shouted in the background.
"So what's plan B Prongs?" Sirius asked bemused.
"That was plan B Padfoot. Now we have to think of plan C!"
Harry sat on the couch with Ron and Hermione trying to forget all his problems but of no avail.
"Could everyone please evacuate the common room for a few moments? I do sincerely apologise for the inconvenience but I do desire to speak with Harry alone." Dumbledore explained to students as they passed him by either to go to their dormitories or to leave the tower completely.
"We will be in the great hall if you want us Harry." Hermione exclaimed as she left with Ron.
"I remember sitting on this couch for seven years either doing homework or just chatting with my friends….."
"What is it you want Professor?" Harry asked irritably as he stared into the fire as Dumbledore stood behind him with his finger tips resting on the neck of the sofa as he looked around the room.
"I do believe it is safe to say that your guardians are right to worry about you Harry." Dumbledore said as he walked around the couch and sat beside him.
"We can sit here in silence for as long as you desire Harry. I am no hurry to be anywhere else."
Harry continued to stare into the fire, hugging one of the cushions on the sofa.
"I do understand how you are feeling Harry….."
"You have no idea how I am feeling." Harry said in a tone of voice barely above a whisper as he still watched the fire. Dumbledore eyed his favourite student who he saw almost like a grandson with great anxiety. He removed his wand from his robes as he swiftly cast the "silencio" charm on the room so they could now speak in private.
"Harry…..the worst thing that one can do in times such as these is to shut out the people who care about them the most. You have such an amazing family and let's not sell your friends too short either. All of them want to help you simply because they all love you. That is all I am going to say on the matter." Dumbledore stood up to leave but Harry called him back as he got to the other side of the couch.
"I am sorry Professor…..for everything. My attitude towards you when you walked in here was a pure disgrace and I hope that you can forgive me for it." Harry who was sitting at the edge of the couch now leaned forward as he bowed his head in shame. Dumbledore placed a hand on his shoulder as he smiled at him. Harry looked up and faintly reciprocated his headmasters smile. He then took his seat beside Harry once more and said
"I understand your anxieties Harry believe me I do. An apology to me however is not what I am looking for. An explanation perhaps for why you are intent on shutting everyone out. Harry what did you see in your dreams?" Dumbledore pressed gently while looking Harry directly in the eyes. Harry turned and stared at him horrified.
"How did you know?" He asked perplexed. Dumbledore smiled and said "It was merely a hunch. Your exclamation and look of sheer terror told me the truth."
"I think Voldemort is plotting something sir." Harry answered flatly not really looking Dumbledore in his eyes for fear that he would see disappointment.
"Harry…..Voldemort is always plotting something. What is important right now is that you block him out of your mind. I am sure Remus would be only too delighted to help you with your occlumency……for now though you should try to unwind with your friends before tonight's event." Dumbledore saw the fearful look in his student's eyes. He placed a hand lightly on his shoulder and said gently
"Harry I give you my word that absolutely nothing will happen to you. After tonight…..it will all be over." Harry reciprocated Dumbledore's smile. Albus patted him gently on the cheek before rising, flicking his wand to remove the silencing charm and swiftly left.
At 7:55 that night Harry found himself standing beside his father behind the notorious Quiddtich doors. The first time he stood there came flooding back to him. He began to remember the great anxiety he had as he prepared for his first Quiddtich match. His stomach was churning and Gryffindor support rang in his ears. This was a similar situation. The only difference was Harry didn't believe that this anxiety would quite so easily conquered. That dream from the previous night ran fresh in his mind. He knew he was safe. He had his family and Dumbledore who would protect him at all costs but he still felt incredibly uneasy. Dumbledore began to call them out one by one. Cedric ran on first with his father in tow. The came Krum with Karkaroff, followed by Fleur and Madam Maxine. Harry finally came on the pitch with James. The arena erupted with applause and cheering which brought Harry momentary happiness. He looked up to see his family and friends standing and waving frantically in support of him.
"ATTENTION!" Dumbledore bellowed and immediately everyone fell silent and focused their attention on him.
"Earlier today Professor Moody placed the Triwizard cup within the maze you see here before you. Nobody but him knows of its exact location. Now our four contestants will embark upon their greatest challenge yet. When I count to three Cedric will be the first to enter seen as he at the moment is leading this tournament. Harry will follow suit and then our guests Fleur and Krum shall enter." Dumbledore then walked into the centre of the pitch as he beckoned the four contestants to gather around him. They all gathered in a tight circle as they listened to Dumbledore's wise words.
"Now I don't know exactly what you will be faced with here tonight. I do know however, that it will be your greatest challenge yet. You may be surprised to find the effect which this creature has on you because you see people tend to change in the maze. Of course the person to find the cup will rewarded greatly but just remember to not let the people you meet in this maze tarnish the character you have grown to know over this past year. I wish you all the best of luck. If either of you wish to be removed for whatever reason then just simply send up red sparks and your request shall be granted immediately." He smiled sincerely at them all and squeezed Harry's shoulder who smiled in turn as they broke up the circle. James and Amos who were nearby hugged their sons tightly before relinquishing them to face the terrors which lay within the maze. Harry and Cedric walked to the mouth of the maze. Each of them smiled warmly at the other and high fived.
"Oh I do hope Harry will be ok" Lily said anxiously covering her face with her hands. Shari, who was sitting on her left smiled over at Sirius who was on her right as he rubbed her back and said
"Prongslet will be just fine Lils you'll see! He has Potter blood running through his veins." Lily sat up and looked from the pitch to Sirius and said "You better be right Sirius but until I see him coming out of there alive and well I don't trust your judgement."
Sirius laughed heartedly and said
"Spoken like a true mother." She smiled as he winked at her and removed his hand from her back.
"On the count of three you will all enter the maze so be ready." Dumbledore warned them as his voice echoed around the arena. They each shared one last smile.
"One……two…….three….." The maze opened. Everyone inhaled deeply as each contestant took their first step towards the future. Nothing was ever going to be the same again.
Harry inhaled deeply as he watched his fellow contestants disappear throughout the maze. He then removed his wand from his jeans pocket as he whispered "Lumos" and proceeded in a northern direction. He followed the maze around for what felt like an eternity until he met a dead end. Suddenly he felt a sharp cold breeze on his neck. He looked around and saw the leaves of the hedge like maze start to shake frantically. Harry then took a few steps backwards until he stepped on a twig that was looped. As he fell to the ground the twig took hold of his ankle. The maze was closing in around him. He pulled frantically to remove his ankle but of no avail. He grabbed his wand that was on the ground beside him and shout "reducto" and the twig snapped. Harry sprinted out of his death trap and hit the ground hard just as the area where he was became sealed off. He sat up and muttered "wow" in between deep breaths. He smiled to himself, feeling lucky and exhilarated at the same time to have escaped that enclosure. His brief happiness was cut a lot shorter than he realised. Cedric stood in front of him with his wand held in a duelling manner. Harry eyes widened as he scooted back from him.
"Cedric….what are you doing?" Harry asked anxiously.
"EXPERLLIAMUS!" Harry turned around to find Krum standing behind him. They surely weren't going to dual here and now Harry thought to himself. Cedric ducked Krum's spell and instructed Harry to stay down. Harry obeyed even though his curiosity increased. "STUPEFY" Cedric shouted as he hit Krum squarely in the chest and sent him flying four feet back in the maze. Cedric ran over to him, kicked his wand out of his hand and nodded at Harry who was now walking towards him looking quite perplexed.
"He cursed Fleur. I had to send up red sparks to get her out before she came into any more danger." Cedric said matter-of-factly.
"So Dumbledore was right then. People do change in the maze."
"Yes. Harry now listen to me we need to find this cup and get out. I don't want to be here anymore than you do by the looks of things. We can win this for Hogwarts but I need you to trust me."
Harry nodded in agreement. "We need to help Krum first."
"Yes, of course. Do you want to do the honours?" Cedric asked smiling faintly.
"Umm…. Yeah….sure….ok….."Protago" Harry shouted as he pointed his wand to the sky and sent out red sparks. That area of the maze quickly began to seal so Cedric grabbed Harry by the wrist as he dragged him into the nearest section. After running half way up they both bent over, resting their hands on their knees and breathed a sigh of relief.
"That was close." Cedric said smiling broadly.
"Too close." Harry answered reciprocating his smile.
As they stood up they saw on their left that the cup was at the far end of the section where they were standing. Both slowly turned to look at the other, grinned and ran towards it.
"Come on Harry we can do it! We are almost there kid!"
"Yeah, Cedric I'm coming…..I'm coming…."
By now Harry was exhausted from dodging various parts of the maze all night. He just wanted it to be over. He was beginning to get a cramp in his side and would give anything just lay down in his large comfortable bed right now. Unfortunately for him he had to endure his worst nightmare first. They finally reached the cup.
"Ok Harry are you ready to bring Hogwarts some glory?" Cedric asked smiling happily. Harry nodded and said "Yeah let's do it Ced!"
"Ok….on the count of three we grab it together all right?" Harry nodded again.
"One…..two…..three!" Cedric and Harry grabbed the cup on either side expecting to be transported to Hogwarts grounds. Neither of them expected what was to come.
Harry and Cedric landed flat on their faces on hard ground, both holding onto either side of the cup. They let go and quickly stood up as they brushed dirt off their clothes. Harry takes in his surroundings carefully. He wonders why this place seems so familiar to him. Cedric walks over to an eight foot tall tombstone. He strokes it gently with his fingers and mutters to himself the name engraved on it in black bold captions. "RIDDLE" He then glances over at Harry whose head immediately jerks up at the hearing of that name. Cedric looks over at him anxiously as he approaches him and softly asks "Harry are you ok?" placing a hand on his shoulder.
"Cedric we are in serious danger. We need to leave nowwwwwww….."
Harry crouches down in pain, placing a hand over his scar. Cedric bends down beside him, places a hand on his back and asks "What is the matter Harry?"
"My scar….go and get help Cedric…..I need Dumbledore…..please go…."
Reluctantly Cedric stands up and grabs the cup as he returns to Hogwarts.
A loud cheer erupts in the stadium on Cedric`s return. Dumbledore and Moody glanced anxiously at one another before they rushed from the sidelines over to Cedric. Cedric, who is now standing does not acknowledge the crowd but instead focuses on his superiors running towards him. The marauders who are seated in the stand with their wives rush down to Cedric also along with Harry's friends and Amos Diggory.
"Cedric where is Harry? He has not returned yet." Dumbledore said anxiously as he grabbed Cedric by the shoulder. Cedric looked at him sadly and said
"The cup was a port key sir. We landed in a graveyard…"
"A Graveyard?" Moody exclaimed as he shared an anxious glance with Albus who released his grip on Cedric. He stumbled backwards a little as he pushed his glasses further up on his nose. He then began to walk away as he considered what Cedric had just told him.
"I didn't want to leave him but he insisted I come back and get you professor Dumbledore." Cedric pressed with sadness in his voice. Moody smiled admirably at him but Cedric simply looked at him with sad eyes.
"Where is Harry? Please Albus….where is my baby?" Lily cried as she and the others reached them.
"I'm afraid Lily that Voldemort has struck." Albus replied gravely.
"Nooooooooo" Lily exclaimed as she fell to the ground on her knees.
James bent down beside her stroking her back and cradling her head against his chest. He kissed the top of her head.
"Albus there is still time. Voldemort cannot be back yet. We have to go back there."
"Well yes James of course we will. I am just trying to decide how many of us are required.
"As many as possible Dumbledore! Harry needs us so let's go."
"Sirius please let me think for a moment." Albus said placing a hand up to stop Sirius from going any further.
"Albus if we wait any longer then Harry will be dead." Lily looked over at him horrified but Sirius didn't notice.
"Sirius please……" Albus said heavily.
Sirius sighed as he rolled his eyes and joined his hands at the back of his head as he began to walk around the spot he was standing on in circles.
A moment or so later Dumbledore brought him and the others to attention.
"All right now here is what we are going to do. Sirius I am taking you, James, Remus, Moody and Hagrid with me and nobody else." He said eying Lily sternly.
"So is this like a boy's night out?" Tonks asked cynically.
"Tonks your body has been through a huge ordeal lately. I would feel much more at ease if you stayed here." Remus said softly.
"Aww babe….." She whined rolling her eyes.
"No Tonks! It's too dangerous. I promise you that we will bring Harry home safe and sound." He smiled at his wife as he said the last bit. She reciprocated as she took his hand and rubbed the back of it against her cheek. She then kissed it while looking him in the eyes. He lifted up her chin with his thumb and index finger as he gently ran his finger across it. Dumbledore ordered Amos to get Cedric to Madam Pompfrey as quickly as possible. Sirius and James hugged their wives tightly as Remus kissed Tonks lightly on the lips. Moody took the cup from Cedric who was now being held securely by his father who had an arm around his son. Arielle took refuge in Dean's arms as Hermione held onto Ryan securely. Then all six men took hold of the cup as they prepared for their journey.
As Dumbledore and company arrived at the graveyard they saw at least ten death eaters kneeling down before Voldemort. Harry was bound and tied up against the tombstone. It appeared that their presence had not been noticed which Dumbledore felt could be used to their advantage so they could now structure a plan to get Harry out of there safely. However, as they were doing so Harry cried out in pain and Sirius ran towards him. "Sirius!" They called but to no avail.
"Get away from my godson you piece of filth." Sirius bellowed at Voldemort who was standing over Harry, pointing his wand at him. He had his back turned to Sirius so he slowly turned around to face him. Voldemort stood approximately six feet tall. He had pale, scaly skin that seemed to glow in the moonlight. His eyes were shaped like a snakes; narrow slits at either side of his face with a cold blue colour perturbing from them. His nose, again similar to a snake's, was flat and practically non-existent.
His finger nails were long and pointed just like his toe nails appeared to be. He rubbed his bald, oval shaped head as he sneered at Sirius. He slowly raised his hand in which he held his wand and pointed it in Sirius`direction. Luckily for Sirius, Hagrid stepped forward and blocked the "Avada kedavra" spell. Dumbledore and the others followed suit as they took their stand behind, in front and beside Sirius.
"Well, well, well isn't this nice? An old enemy re-union. You are just in time James to watch me slowly but painfully drain the life out of your beloved son." Voldemort said slowly and smoothly in a voice that was barely audible. It was very easy to mistake his tone for politeness.
"You touch my son once more and I'll….." James said fiercely.
"You will do what James? Kill me? I would like to see you try." He smirks at James before he brings his attention to Dumbledore.
"I see Dumbledore that you bring along protection these days. It must be awful to be getting old." He grins at his former headmaster who stares solemnly at him. Harry takes this opportunity to run towards his protectors. Hagrid reaches out his hand for him so Harry immediately runs towards him.
"Oh please Harry don't worry. I am going to have fun playing with your family first."
"Ya go`wha`ya wanted so jus`leave àrry alone righ`?" Hagrid says bravely.
"Oh Hagrid you could always make me laugh. You really are stupid." Hagrid looks around at his friends who stare aggressively at Voldemort for that.
"For thirteen years Harry Potter has been made look like some sort of hero. Well believe me he is far from it. And tonight I will finally have my revenge." His eyes meet Harry's at this point as his lips spread into a slippery smile.
"I don't suppose that you remember what happened to you thirteen years ago. Shall I divulge how I lost my powers? You see Harry it was love. Dear, sweet lovely Lily Potter placed a fortress of love around her precious son. I could not touch him. However, now Harry with your blood running through my veins that is no longer a problem."
Voldemort swept closer to Harry and attempted to grab him when Dumbledore intervened. What Voldemort did not see was that while he was telling his bedtime story….Dumbledore was constructing a plan with the marauders to get Harry out of there.
"Do you enjoy protecting Harry Potter Dumbledore? I do hope they are paying you well for it." Voldemort said cynically as he pointed his wand at him.
"Harry, unlike you is worth protecting Tom. So many times I offered you help and solace and each time you declined my offer. I knew when we first met that you were different from any child I had ever met. Unlike others you, at the tender age of eleven, you showed no remorse whatsoever for inflicting pain onto innocent victims. Eventually I realised of course that I was wasting my time trying to save you from yourself. Lord Voldemort does indeed work alone as you pointed out to me on more than one occasion. I just hope you relaise Tom that being alone does not salvage anything. In fact, some see it as cowardly."
Voldemort sighed as he rolled his head around in semi-circles.
At this point Dumbledore looked down at Harry and winked at him. Harry smiled weakly at him and before he knew it James had dragged him back to him. Sirius who was standing beside him, held the cup up to him. Harry smiled happily at Sirius who reciprocated.
Voldemort turned his attention back to Dumbledore as he said
"You cannot protect him forever old man. Anytime I want him I can get him and you know it just like now…..HARRY POTTER! GET OVER HERE NOW OR I WILL KILL ALL YOUR FAMILY INCLUDING YOUR SURROGATE GRANDFATHER!"
He sneered down at Dumbledore who turned to look at Harry. James held his son securely in a tight embrace around his chest. Harry gulped upon hearing Voldemort`s proclamation. Dumbledore's eyes told him to stay where he was but Harry being the hero was taking no chances. Voldemort wanted Harry and nobody else so there was no way Harry was going to make his family suffer for his cowardice. He relinquished himself from James as he came forward and stood beside Dumbledore.
Albus placed an arm around his shoulder as Harry looked at him for advice. Dumbledore looked at him sadly and said
"Please Tom….he is just a child….."
"A child which I no longer have any use for." He said smiling broadly.
Moody and Remus stopped Sirius and James from intervening, both knowing that there was a plan somewhere for Dumbledore would not let anything happen to Harry nor would Hagrid.
Harry bravely stepped in front of Dumbledore and Hagrid as he said
"Ok snake face…..if you want me then give me your best shot!"
Everyone was shocked at Harry's choice of words and looked at Dumbledore to do something but he instead held up his hand to stop them going any further as he continued to watch Harry proudly.
"With pleasure…." Voldemort replied smiling at him.
"AVADA KEDVRA" He shouted and at the same time Harry screamed
"EXPELLIAMUS"
Everyone except Dumbledore shouted at Harry but what happened next shocked them. Harry and Voldemort`s wand connected. At first a shot of white light emerged which lasted for a few seconds only to be replaced by a strong pink colour. Similar to the white light, it disappeared within a few seconds to be replaced by a blue coloured light.
Harry could hear Dumbledore shouting at him to not let go and Voldemort vowing to finish him off. Behind Dumbledore stood Moody and the marauders who could not believe what they were witnessing. All of a sudden three ghostly figures appeared out of Voldemort`s wand. One of them nobody recognised but the other two were most definitely Barty Crouch JR. and the muggle grounds keeper who Harry saw being killed in his dream last summer.
"Albus how much longer can Harry hold on for?" James asked.
"Do not worry James. I know when the time is right." He answered patiently as he continued to watch Harry.
"Well is that time likely to come anytime soon? I'm pretty sure Lily is beside herself."
"Yes, Sirius……ok Harry…..let go…..NOW!" Dumbledore shouted. Harry obediently did as he was told as Dumbledore dragged him back to the others. They all took hold of the cup which was still in Sirius`hands and apparated back to Hogwarts.
They landed on the Quiddtich pitch in a heap. Hagrid face down with Moody beside him, flat on his back and Dumbledore sprawled across them both. Sirius landed flat on his back with Harry on top of him, Remus landed the same way as Sirius with James falling full length on top of him.
Albus raised himself off Moody who then stood up and helped his friend up as they both helped Hagrid off the ground. Harry who by now had rolled off Sirius burst out laughing at the sight of his father.
"Well now I knew there was love there fellas but little did we know it was quite that much. Aint that right Pronglset?" Sirius asked humorously who was now standing beside Harry with his arm draped over his shoulder.
"Hell yeah Sirius! Maybe we should go so they can be alone." He turned to his godfather who laughed heartedly with him.
Both James and Remus stood up as they brushed down their clothes and said cynically "ha ha real funny you two."
Harry and Sirius looked at one another and grinned and said
"We try! HIGH FIVE!" James and Remus shook their heads amused.
All of Harry's friends and the rest of his family then suddenly ran on to the pitch.
Hermione swung her arms around his neck only to find Harry wincing at her touch.
"Oh my god what happened to you?" She asked tearfully as she stood back and looked at him.
"Voldemort is what happened babe." Harry said matter-of-factly.
Hermione and Arielle gasped as they covered their mouths with their hands.
Lily ran over to him and cupped his face in her hands as she pushed back his fringe. She then hugged his head to her chest as she kissed the top of his head and tearfully said
"I am so sorry sweetheart." She released him after a few seconds. Harry looked at her and said truthfully
"This is not your fault. We knew that sooner or later he would return. Now we got to figure out how to bring him down."
"Spoken like a true marauder but you must get Madam Pompfrey to check you over first son." James said gently as he ruffled his hair.
James threw his arm around his son as he escorted him to the hospital wing. Harry patted Ron on the arm as he passed him by. He smiled in return but was in shock at seeing what his friend had gone through. Hermione approached him as they smiled weakly at each other and headed to the hospital wing with Rob, Dean, Arielle, Neville and Seamus.
Luckily Harry didn't have any serious injuries although the cut which was made in his arm to get his blood for Voldemort was quite deep. Dumbledore was immediately drawn into a meeting with Fudge and the marauders followed suit leaving Harry in the care of his friends. Even though he was instructed to get some rest he could not.
His curiosity got the better of him so he snuck up to Dumbledore's office.
Hermione of course protested but to no avail. Ron and Rob understood as did Fred and George. Dean and Arielle were asleep in each others arms on the bed beside Harry so they were oblivious to what was going on. As Harry ascended the spiralling staircase he heard shouting coming from inside the office. He recognised the voice as his fathers.
"I hope you are not calling my son a liar Fudge!" James shouted angrily.
"Well no….no….its just…..there is going to be fear and we don't know if people should be made relive that fear…."
"Fudge…..ole Voldie is back so do us all a favour and get with the programme. None of us like the idea but we don't have the time to be burying our heads in the sand so man up!"
"WHAT DID YOU SAY? I CAN ASSURE YOU SIRIUS THAT….."
"Excuse me gentleman but it may interest you to know that this conversation is no longer private." Moody said flatly. He turned to Dumbledore who was sitting at his desk looking anxious with his fingers crossed as they supported his chin. He nodded at Moody to let whoever it was in. He then un - crossed his fingers as he began shifting parchments of paper out of his way. Moody opened the door using his wand and Harry stood there aghast.
"Oh Harry….congratulations on winning the tournament. The youngest contestant…. I do hope you will enjoy this title and do something great with your winnings."
"Yeah, maybe I could bribe old Voldie to disappear again. What do you think Minister?" Harry asked curtly.
Sirius and Albus smirked whilst the others stared him for an answer. Fudge, who held his green bowler hat, began twirling it as he smiled uneasily.
"Yes….well…..you give it some thought Harry. I'm sure you will think of something." He smiled wryly at him as he turned to Dumbledore and said….
"I will be in touch Dumbledore." He waved shortly at him as Dumbledore who had re-set his hands under his chin waved his index finger at him and continued to look down at his desk. Fudge, who felt very uncomfortable with dangerous eyes glaring at him from all angles quickly left. Harry stood aside to let him pass as he stared at the ground and shut the door once he had gone.
James guided Harry over to Dumbledore's desk as he sat in his usual seat.
"You look pretty wrecked sir if you don't mind me saying so."
Dumbledore smiled warmly at his student as he placed his two hands out in front of him.
"How much of the conversation did you hear Harry may I ask?"
Harry removed his gaze from Dumbledore as he focused on the ground and looked shifty.
James placed a hand on his shoulder as he gently said
"There is nobody here who is angry at you Harry so please answer Professor Dumbledore." James and Albus smiled softly at each other. Harry raised his head and said
"I only heard that Fudge……doesn't believe that Voldemort is back?"
Snape and Mc Gonagall who were standing on either side of Dumbledore looked at one another sadly. The marauders did the same whilst Harry and Albus just looked at each other.
Dumbledore folded his arms on his desk as he looked gravely at Harry who was waiting patiently for an answer.
"Well the truth is Harry, the minister is in denial about Lord Voldemort`s return. Of course we will continue to attempt to make him see sense……"
"Why doesn't he believe he is back though?" Harry asked anxiously.
"Because he is an idiot!" Sirius barked.
"Sirius….." Mc Gonagall droned.
Sirius shrugged his shoulders and James offered him a small smile.
"I believe that he does not wish it inflict pain and anguish on his people Harry but like I said we are going to try to make him see sense."
"Well what if I spoke to him...." Harry offered desperately.
"I have my doubts that would make a difference Potter. Fudge is stuck in his ways. When he refuses to see something then he won't." Snape said making Harry look at him for the first time since he entered the room.
"Severus is correct Harry. But all you have to be concerned with is getting better."
"Professor Dumbledore……I want to help. Please let me do something." Harry pleaded as he looked around at everyone in the room.
"Harry we will speak about this later. I want you right now to go back to the hospital wing and get some rest." James said firmly.
"But dad……" Harry whined.
"I said NOW Harry." James ordered sternly as he pointed to the door.
Harry rose from his seat as he glumly looked about the room and bid everyone a good night. As he got to the door however, Sirius called out to him.
"Padfoot will be down in a while mate." He winked at a now grinning Harry. He waved at them and left.
A few days later when things had calmed down at Hogwarts Snape, on Dumbledore's orders, summoned Harry to his office. Of course Sirius wanted to accompany him just in case Snape did anything but James and Remus managed to make him see sense and reminded him that with Voldemort`s return this was a fresh start for everyone.
Harry knocked on Snape`s door and was commanded to enter immediately. However, to his surprise Snape wasn't alone.
"Harry m`boy! How are you doing? Slughorn asked who was standing next to Snape at the top of the room with some folders over loaded with parchments in them.
Harry stared at him aghast for a few seconds and politely said
"Yes, I am fine thank you sir." He offered Slughorn a small smile who returned it widely. He then turned to Snape and said
"I will have these back to you soon Severus. I hopefully will see you at the meeting."
"Yes, I expect you will." Snape said smiling wryly at him.
"Right well I shall leave you to it. Good seeing you again Harry." He said as he patted him on the shoulder, passing him by and left the dungeons.
"I expect you are wondering why I summoned you here Harry." Snape said bringing Harry to attention. He was still standing in front of the door. Snape, who was sitting up against his own desk, beckoned Harry to come forward.
"So are you going to tell me what this is all about Professor? If it has anything to do with occlumency then the answer is no. I have it under control and besides Remus helps me. Its just easier….." Snape put up a hand to stop him.
"This has nothing to do with occlumency Harry. This does however have everything to do with you." Harry stared at him perplexed as he sat at a desk opposite him.
"You are aware I am sure that you will be living from now on in the headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix?" Harry nodded his head.
"As you should also be aware with the return of Lord Voldemort there will be meetings taking place on a regular basis. We have yet to clear this with Lily but I know that I would be happier if you were present at some of them since you were the first to witness his return."
Harry quirked an eyebrow at Snape who continued to stare at him softly. Harry then looked around the room, leaned forward and asked with a smile
"Is this a wind up?"
"Why would you think that?" Snape asked anxiously.
"Well even though you started off treating me ok at the start of the year it all went back too normal within a matter of months and now you are being nice to me again so why should I believe that you are for real this time?"
"I understand your concerns Harry but I did mean what I said to you at the start of term. I do want to put the past behind us. The only reason that I kept my distance from you was because of an incident which occurred between your father and me. That is all in the past. We need to stick together from now on."
"I aint sticking nowhere with you Snape, not until I know I can trust you." Harry said standing up. Snape did the same as he shrugged his shoulders.
"I understand your grievances Harry and I respect your honesty. I just want you to know that I do want to be a protector of yours."
"Respect has got to be earned Snivelus….."
"I agree which is why I am not going to be harbouring you to trust me. That has to be your decision so I will be patient until then.
Harry stared at him perplexed for a few moments before shaking Snape`s offering hand. Two thoughts ran through Harry's mind as he left the dungeons. Firstly was Snape truly honest about wishing to gain Harry's trust or was this just another one of his sick ploys of deceit? Secondly why did he feel like he could trust Snape nonetheless?
I am sooooooooooooooooooo soooooooooooooooooooo soooooooooooooooooooo super sorry you guys for the crazy delay in updating!!! If you hate me then I totally understand. I did try to make this chapter really cool for you all sooooo hopefully you enjoyed it!! Let me know what's on your mind. :)