The grandeur of the Greengrass Yule Ball seemed like a distant memory as Harry and his friends huddled together in the cozy common room. The fire crackled softly, casting a warm glow over their faces as they discussed their strategy.

"We could use a summoning spell to bring Asmodeus into the chamber," Eddie suggested, his mind already racing with possibilities.

Marcus chimed in, "And while Fluffy is focused on the snake, the rest of us can try to get past without being noticed."

Tracey added thoughtfully, "If we time it just right, we might be able to slip through the trapdoor while Fluffy is distracted."

"Guys, come on there's no need to summon Asmodeus. Harry can just tell him to go through the door." Said Daphne with exasperation.

You're absolutely right, Daphne," Harry agreed. "Asmodeus can understand me. I'll communicate with him and guide him through the door when the time is if the Cerberus somehow figured out that this snake isn't here to hurt him he'll quickly turn his attention to us. So time is of the essence"

Eddie was practically bouncing with enthusiasm. "So, if we time the entrance just right, Asmodeus can enter the chamber and distract Fluffy. While the beast is focused on him, the rest of us can move quickly to get through the trapdoor."

Daphne chimed in, her tone cautious yet determined. "And once we're through, we'll need to navigate the challenges that await us beneath the trapdoor."

"We don't know if there are challenges" said Tracey

"Of course there are the teachers aren't gonna put whatever's down there in the protection of just the Cerberus. They probably made a bunch of traps to get us" replied Daphne.

Marcus added thoughtfully, "We'll have to be on high alert and stay vigilant. The unknown is always the most dangerous."

Tracey's brows furrowed as she raised a concern, "But what if Fluffy turns his attention back to us before we're all through the trapdoor?"

Harry's gaze swept over his friends, their expressions reflecting a mix of determination and apprehension. "We need to practice our timing meticulously. We can't afford any mistakes. And we must be prepared to think on our feet if things don't go as planned."

The group nodded in agreement, their resolve strengthening with each passing moment. They had faced challenges before, but this one was unlike any they had encountered. The Cerberus was a formidable guardian, and the path ahead was fraught with danger.

As the evening wore on, they continued to discuss their plan, refining the details and considering every possible scenario. They practiced summoning spells, ensuring that Asmodeus was comfortable with the process and that their timing was impeccable.

Amidst their preparations, Asmodeus slithered among them, his presence a calming influence that seemed to bolster their spirits. Harry reached out and gently stroked the snake's scales, a silent acknowledgment of the bond they shared. Asmodeus's eyes met Harry's, and in that moment, they understood each other without the need for words.

-x-

The day of reckoning arrived, and the group gathered in the library one final time before setting out. Harry's heart raced with a mixture of excitement and nervousness, his mind focused on the challenges that lay ahead.

Eddie clapped Harry on the back. "We've got this, mate. We've prepared for this moment."

Daphne's gaze held a mixture of determination and warmth. "Just remember, Harry, we're in this together."

The group shared a final round of encouraging words, a tangible sense of unity and camaraderie enveloping them. With Asmodeus by their side, they made their way to the forbidden corridor, their footsteps echoing in the quietness of the castle.

Fluffy's massive form came into view, guarding the trapdoor with a watchful gaze. Harry's heart pounded, his focus unwavering as he raised his wand and cast the summoning spell. Asmodeus slithered forward, his sleek form moving gracefully towards the Cerberus.

The three-headed guardian's attention shifted, its heads turning to fixate on the non-magical snake that had suddenly appeared. Fluffy's growls turned into whimpers, its massive body cowering as if in the presence of an ancient, primal fear. The effect was even more profound than Harry had hoped for.

"Now's our chance!" Harry whispered urgently, and the group moved swiftly towards the trapdoor. Asmodeus held Fluffy's attention, his presence captivating the guardian and allowing Harry and his friends to slip through the trapdoor without being noticed. But fate was not on Tracey's side.

Hey guys, sorry for the month long break. I was out of country so i couldn't post. now i am back and posting. ik really short chap.