I do not own…
Chapter Thirty-Eight: Christmas day & The Firebolt
Vanessa couldn't help but turn back and forth in her sleep. In her dream she was three again and was standing in baby Harry's room. She heard her uncle dropping to the floor. When she heard her mother fighting Voldemort downstairs Lilly came in and started barricading the door. Then her aunt walked over to Harry and started chanting a love protection charm on him. When little Vanessa heard the killing curse again and started to cry, knowing that her mother was dead. After a few minutes the door was blasted open and everything that was barricaded was moved out of the way. Lily quickly placed herself in front of her and Harry.
"Move aside." Voldemort command
"Please, please, not Harry. Not Harry." Lilly said
"Move aside. Move aside." Voldemort commanded
Her aunt continued pleading with the dark lord for a bit until he had enough used the killing curse again. Vanessa watched in horror as her aunt fell to the ground and never got up. She did everything that she could to not cry at what was happening and not run away.
"What a beautiful and brave little girl you are. It would be a waste for your bloodline to end with you. Step aside and I will let you live." Voldemort said
Vanessa remembered what her mother told her and stood her ground. He sighed in annoyance at her before using the same spell but it didn't work. He used it again but on both of them and a green light infused the room.
Vanessa woke up with tears falling down her cheeks. It has been years since she dreamed about that night. The dreams had stopped when she was nine. Thanks to Fudge's stupid mouth the memories came back. Sensing her sadness Dude jumped onto her bed and did his best to comfort her. Vanessa smiled at the gester and lay back down as she held him close
When Christmas break came Vanessa couldn't help but worry about her cousin. Knowing that the person that sold out his parents to Voldemort was once his fathers' best friend would anger anyone. Harry did his best to hold in his sadness and anger at the news but it got hard when he looked through the photo album that Hagrid got him. He saw the picture that Sirius was in. It was in his parents' wedding photo; smiling and laughing. The laugh taunted him so much that his anger took over that he told Vanessa how wanted to get revenge on Black.
"Do you know what I hear when the Dementors are near me?" He asked "I hear my mum. I hear her pleading to Voldemort to spare me and he just laughed. You have no idea how..."
He stopped his ranting when he saw the cold glare she gave him. Harry knew that he made a mistake.
"Wow, so you can hear your mom being killed. That is so much worse than seeing it actually happen. Did you forget that I was three years old and saw it all happen. Hearing both your father and my mother die and then seeing your mother dying right in front me!" She glared "I still get nightmares about that night Harry. It's hard to unsee what I had to witness. So don't you dare say that I don't know how you feel, Harry."
Harry looked down with guilt on his face.
"Of course, I'm mad about what I just heard about Black but I'm not gonna risk my life for stupid vengeance cause I know that it's not what my mother wanted. And neither would your parents. Look what taking revenge did for my father. He's on the run and may never be free." She said as tears formed in eyes. " Do you really think you can kill a person, Harry? Do you think that you can live that for the rest of your life? It's a path that can't be washed away. It's something that will haunt you. When the Dementors finally capture him then justice will be done."
She got up from the bench that was in their backyard and was about to walk away. Before she left she looked at him over her shoulder.
"I know that your childhood was horrible and messed up. But at least we found each other. We are a family now. I don't want to lose anyone else." She said "Please think this over. Black is not worth your life."
With that said she left him alone sitting on the bench and went inside. Harry's shoulder slumped as he didn't mean to say that to her. He was caught up in his anger that he forgot that she was there that night. He didn't mean to hurt or upset her. Harry looked at his hands and thought about what she had said. Could he really take someone's life and live with it? A part of him wanted to say yes because Black betrayed his parents without a single thought. But another part, that was larger than the anger one, told him no.
The next day Harry was trying to apologize to Vanesa but she was still upset at him. He could only guess that she knew that he was still unsure about his decision. But when Hagrids letter to them came she was able to forget about the argument for a bit. He said that he wasn't charged for the accident with Malfoy but Buckbreak was. There was going to be a hearing for its sentence on April 20th. The two knew that Hagrid was heartbroken by this as there were large tear drops on the letter. Feeling sorry for Hagrid the two tried looking for some research. Vanessa even wrote to Artism about what happened and asked if his grandfather can help or knows any laws that can help with the case.
When Christmas morning came everyone had gathered around the large Christmas tree and opened their presents. Vanessa and Harry got gifts from Adam, Bell and all their friends. They got another sweater from Mrs. Weasley and this time it's a scarlet sweater with the Gryffindor lion knitted on the front, along with a box of nut brittle. To their surprise they got gifts from her father. Vanessa was given a beautiful designed shawl that was once her mothers. She and Harry were also both given daggers with the family crest on it. On the card he explained that they'll glow when they are in danger and can place shield charms around them. Then there were two other gifts for them that didn't have any notes. Vanessa was about this and carefully opened hers while Harry ripped the parcel open and gasped as a magnificent, gleaming broomstick rolled out onto the floor.
"I don't believe it." Harry gasped
It was a Firebolt.
"Wow dad." Vanessa smiled
"No, the broom that we got him is over here." Adam said, pointing to the wrapped broom that's under the tree.
"Then who…" Bell asked
"I don't know...I can't find a card." Harry said
"Vanessa, dear, what about yours?" Bell asked
She shook her head as she looked at the jewelry box. When she opened it she saw that it was a Ruby Onyx choker necklace.
"This is Goblin made." She said
She knew that Hunter didn't get this as Goblin jewelry was very expensive. Seeing that there was no note for either of them, everyone but Harry were worried. So, to Harry's horror, Adam called Fairy Godmother and she took both gifts to check them over. Harry was in disbelief at the whole thing and didn't believe someone could have Jinx or Hex them. Yes, he liked the broom that Adam and Bell got him but it wasn't a firebolt. It was a Thunderbolt, which was the second fastest broom in the world. He had looked to Vanessa for some backup but she was on her parents side.
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After opening presents Vanessa hurried upstairs and got dressed. When she was ready Hunter was already waiting downstairs.
"Merry Christmas, Vanessa." He smiled, as she came down and hugged him.
The two smiled at each other before they started to kiss.
"Merry Christmas, Hunter." She smiled
The two exchanged gifts. She gave him the newest addition about herpetologist that he wanted while he gave her a music box that plays when it senses someone in love. It made him smile a little as it started playing.
"It's lovely, Hunter. Thank you." She smiled and kissed him again.
She handed the jewelry box to Mrs. Potts so she could place it in her bedroom before grabbing her jacket and telling her parents that they are leaving. They have gone to the Enchanted Lake to go ice skating where Cerberus (in his normal dog form) was waiting for them. This was Hades' believing that he was doing his duty as a father and Godfather to both of them. When they went skating Vanessa had to help him out a little as he didn't know how to stake on ice well. After a bit he was able to get the hang of it. When they turned on the heat lamps they had a picnic that Hunter had made for them. He had placed a large blanket on the ground, placed the basket in the middle. There were warm pulled pork sandwiches, with tomato soup, loaded mashed potato, Toffee apple pie with dulce de leche and two hot chocolate bottles. Hunter had to toss a leg of lamb to distract Cerberus as the creature was eyeing their food. The demon dog gladly ate his meal on the side while they enjoyed their own.
"Well, Evie helped with the cooking." He said "Mal helped with the baking. I don't trust Evie with baking after what she did with those cupcakes last spring. Thank Merlin, Lupin was able to find an antidote."
Vanessa let out a giggle as they started eating their lunch. During their meal she told him about what has happened in the last few days. Hunter believed that she and her parents were right in taking the broom and necklace away to check them for jinks or hexes. He was a villain kid after all and knew almost everything a villain would do.
"I'll try and talk to him." He said, taking her hand into his.
Cerberus was lying on his side when he had finished the meat and bone but stood up when he smelled newcomers coming near. He let out a growl that got Hunter and Vanessa's attention. They got up to see who it was and mentaly groan when they saw that it was Lucas.
"Well, isn't this cozy." He said
"What are you doing here, Lucas?" Vanessa asked
"You didn't come to my family Yule ball again. I wanted to know why as I know you were sent an invitation." Lucas said, glaring at Hunter. "But I guess I can see why."
"Lucas, I have never gone to your family's Christmas party in the last five years." Vanessa said "When are you gonna take a hint. I'm with Hunter."
"And I don't see why." He muttered
"The fact that I don't stalk her is one of the reasons." Hunter said
Before anything else could be said two CRACK noises were heard. Coming out of the woods were both Lucius and his wife Narcissa.
"Oh great, now what." Hunter muttered
Cerberus seemed to have agreed with him as he growled again and stood between the two teens and the Malfoy family.
"I can not believe it." Narcissa whispered "It is true."
She looked like she was on the verge of tears when she saw Hunter.
"What is true?" Hunter asked
"That you look just like your father. We didn't get to talk much last time we met." Lucius said
"You thought I was this guy, I really don't know how." Hunter said
"Father. Mother. Why did you come here?" Lucas asked
"Your mother and I believe that it was time for a little family reunion between you two." Lucius said, still looking at Hunter. "Tell me, Hunter, do you know who your real parents are?"
"Partly, but I don't care to know the rest." Hunter said
That made Narcissa gasp in disbelief.
Blue fire started to form a circle around Vanessa, Hunter and Cerberus and Hades appeared. The sight of him made Narcissa grab Lucas hand and pulled him behind her while Lucius told out his wand and stood in front of his family.
"Well, well, well...what's going on here?" Hades said
"Hi dad." Hunter said
"Hunt. Vanessa. Having a good Christmas?" Hades asked
"Was. Until we got interrupted." Hunter said
"Oh really." Hades said, stepping in front of Lucius. "The name is Hades, God of the Underworld. What brings you here Malfoy?"
Lucius looked at him with distaste.
"So you're his...caregiver." He said
"His father. Or adopted father if you prefer." Hades said "But I don't see how that's any of your business. Though I have to admit that I'm surprised that two purebloods such as yourselves are in this area that's filled with muggles." Then he looked over at Vanessa and Hunter. "Why don't you two finished off your day." Then glanced back at Lucius with a glare. "I'll finish this conversation with them."
Hunter nodded and took Vanessa by the hand and backed everything up. They were about to leave until Narcissa took a few steps forward.
"He is a descendant of the Black family. He is the son of my dear cousin, Constance Black." Narcissa glared "You stole him from her."
Hades just let out a laugh.
"Stole. Oh lady, you have no idea what you're talking about." Hades smirked
Not wanting to hear about his mother Hunter turned on his motorbike and took off with Vanessa. Neither Lucas or his parents tried to stop him but only because both Hades and Cerberus were keeping them at bay.
They continued on with their day without any interruption. After dropping off the blanket and picnic basket at his place they were able to see the movie that they wanted to see. Then they walked through the park that was filled with Christmas decorations. They had met with a few of their friends around; build a snowman and had a bit of a snow fight with them. When it started to get dark he took her back home where a christmas dinner was ready for them. Mal was already there, along with Evie, Jay, and Carlos. Besides the littles bits that had happened, it was actually a nice day.
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When they had all returned to Hogwarts Harry was still upset at what his family did and told his friends what happened. Ron was on his side while Hermione was on Vanessa's side. Hunter, Fred, and Geroge were staying out of it as they knew better than to get on Vanessa's bad side. Harry had finally backed off when she started to call him a spoiled brat because he didn't get what he wanted and started to act like Malfoy. That he had another brand new fast broom so he shouldn't be whining about it just because it wasn't a Firebolt. That if he wanted a Firebolt so badly he could have hers and she'll take the Thunderbolt.
Then shortly after New Year Wood sought Harry out in the Gryffindor Tower. He wanted to know if he had gotten a new broom yet. Harry was gonna say yes and tell him about his Thunderbolt but Ron told him about how he got a Firebolt. Wood was excited after hearing that but Harry told him that Vanessa's parents had confiscated it because they believed it was jinxed. When he told Wood that it was gonna be stripped the guy nearly had a heart attack. He told Harry that he'll talk to Vanessa and make her see reason.
That didn't go so well.
Vanessa was in the courtyard with her friends when Wood came towards them.
"Vanessa. We need to talk." Wood said
"If this is about Harry's Firebolt, Wood. I'm standing by my parents' choice." Vanessa asked
She told Wood that her cousin has another good broom but like Ron, he thought that the Firebolt was the better choice. He tried to make his reason but Vanessa cut him off and told him that Black could have Jinx or hex to hurt Harry. Wood made the mistake in saying that he didn't care if Harry got kicked off his broom as long as he catches the Snitch. With a wave of her hand Wood was lifted off the ground and pinned him against a wall.
"You know what Wood, I don't care if you are my captain. I've had about enough of your obsession with Quidditch. My cousins' life and safety is more important than winning. I tolerated your choices for the last two years and now is enough." She glared "You are a horrible captain for caring more about winning than the safety of his teammates. If you keep this up I am quitting and I will make sure you are revoked from being captain. Do you understand me?"
Knowing that she wasn't kidding, Wood quickly nodded and ran off when she let him go. For a week everyone stayed clear of Vanessa, fearing for her wrath, but she didn't notice as she was foucing on her studies.
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Next week Harry had started on his anti-dementor lessons with Professor Lupin. They had to use a Boggart for their lessons and it didn't go well for his first lesson. This time he started to hear his fathers voice along with mother. It was getting bad to the point that Harry was kind of letting it happen just so he could hear their voices but he was able to create a silver shadow for a few minutes.
Ravenclaw had played Slytherin a week after the start of term. Slytherin narrowly won. According to Wood, this was good news for Gryffindor, who would take second place if they beat Ravenclaw too. He therefore increased the number of team practices to five a week. It was hard for most of the team but they were able to work at it. No one talked about Harry's Firebolt, not even Wood. Harry was doing great with his new broom. The Thunderbolt was faster than his Nimbus 2000. On one of their practices a raven flew around the Quidditch field before landing on one of the stands. It looked at the players before focusing on Harry. Its eyes glowed blue and suddenly Harry's broom started to jerk and roll. Harry did his best to hold on but when it rolled the third time he was flipped over. He did his best to hold on. Vanessa and others did their best to save him but something kept blocking them away. Dude who was watching everything, sniffed around to search where the magic was coming from. The scent was coming from the stands and he followed it. When Harry's broom zoomed away and was about to hit one of the towers Madam Hooch used her wand and saved Harry. The broom hit the tower and broke into pieces. Madam Hooch had used a hover charm to lower him down. Dude growled when he smelled the magic was coming from the Raven. He barked and started chasing after it. The Raven cawed at him before flying away in fear before leaving a few feathers behind. Dude took one of the feathers and headed down to the field to show Vanessa what he found. Then Vanessa and Harry took it to show Professor Dumbledore.
"Professor Dumbledore, my father told us that there was another that's trying to kill us." Vanessa said "Baba Yaga. He said that she could change forms. Could this be her?"
"It is hard to tell but I wouldn't doubt it. Baba Yaga is very old and a dark witch." Dumbledore said as he looked at the feather.
"How dangerous is she, Professore?" Harry asked, "She can't be worse than Voldemort."
"No, Harry. She was worse in her own way." Dumbledore said "Her greatest crime was devouring children."
"Sh-She...She ate children?" Harry asked in discused.
"Yes. Muggle or Magical alike. It didn't matter to her as long as it gave her long life." Dumbledore said
"Why would she be working for Voldemort if she's more powerful than him?" Vanessa asked
"Sadly, I could only guess, Vanessa. Voldemort must have offered her the souls of muggles' children if she helped but I doubt that she would have been satisfied with that." Dumbledore said "I'll warn the Dementors, hopefully the scent from this feather will help them find her. But after what had happened you two understand the seriousness this is. For your protection I would have to take you both off the Quidditch team."
"What...no Professor...please...we are so close to winning the Cup." Harry said "Madam Hooch was able to save me just in time."
Vanessa would have shot a glare at her cousin for this but was able to keep a neutral face.
"If it's okay Headmaster, Dude is the one the tracked the magic that did this. He could alert us in time if the same one comes back." She said
Dumbledore wasn't so sure about this but knew of Dudes' new special ability and heightened senses. After a few minutes he had agreed but warned them that if this happened again he will pull them out. Harry knew that he was serious but didn't argue.
His only problem now is trying to get a new broom before the next game. He knew that Adam and Bell were gonna be mad cause that was a brand new broomstick but didn't know if they'll get him a new one. A day later Harry had just finished another anti-dementor lesson and he was getting better. When he left the room he bumped into Professor McGonagall who had his Firebolt. She told him that Fairy Godmother had checked it and classified that it was safe to ride, as well as the necklace Vanessa had given him. After thanking her he took the broom and showed it to his friends and everyone in the Gryffindor tower. Everyone was amazed by his broom but sadly the happiness didn't last for the golden trio. When Ron went to place the broom in their dorm he saw that Scabbers had gone missing and blood was on his sheets. He believed that Hermiones' cat killed him. This put a huge stain on Ron and Hermiones' friendship.
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A/N: This story ranting might change to M soon