A/N: Howdy everyone! Check out the HAPHNE discord #fanart for the illustrations from my wife. As always, thank you to those who review, favorite, follow and PM! See you next week!
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Just happy to be here!
Chapter 28
September 1, 1996 (King's Cross Station – Hogwarts Express – Mid-Morning)
"Daffy!" Astoria greeted jubilantly, throwing herself into her older sister's arms.
"Don't call me that," Daphne scolded without any force, a loving smile on her features. A smile that still didn't quite reach her eyes, but Astoria was far too distracted to notice.
"I'm trying out for the Gryffindor quidditch team this year!" Astoria said proudly.
"That's great!" Daphne exclaimed and gave her sister another hug before sitting down, having already levitated her trunk above her seat.
Astoria plopped down after levitating her own trunk and cast a few charms on the door, knowing that any who wanted to speak with them likely had nothing nice to say, especially with Daphne in the compartment.
"What are you reading?" Astoria questioned, pointing at the book in Daphne's lap.
"Oh," Daphne tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "Just this year's Potions book," she shrugged nonchalantly. "It's a long train ride and I wanted something to distract me."
An awkward silence fell over the room as all Astoria could do was nod. Despite being a Greengrass, Astoria was now well-known as Harry Potter's best friend, and therefore was nearly universally liked by those who didn't serve the Dark Lord, which, seeing as how almost every Death Eater was now dead, meant practically everyone.
Several students waved as they passed their compartment, and Astoria responded brightly by waving and smiling. Those same students didn't offer Daphne a passing glance, and those few who did only sent dark looks her way. Daphne did her best to remain oblivious, instead focusing on her studies.
Sasha uncoiled herself from around Astoria and slithered over to Daphne before raising up and giving the girl a kiss on the cheek with a flicker of her forked tongue. Daphne jumped slightly and looked up before giving a half-hearted smile and patting Sasha on the head.
"Thank you, Sasha," she said softly, the basilisk purring under her touch.
Daphne withdrew her hand when she felt a familiar pulse of magic react with her own. Her memories, nearly fully restored after almost a year of weekly healing sessions, not to mention the direct aid of Andromeda, easily allowed her to recognize the warm, strong, comforting magic resonating with the basilisk.
Sasha was, after all, Harry's familiar.
Sasha returned to Astoria who giggled as the basilisk got comfortable and flicked the girl on the cheek. Daphne watched the basilisk retreat with a forlorn expression, her mind assailed with memories of Harry and their brief time together before…
No. Daphne thought stubbornly. What's done is done. Dwelling on the past does me no good.
She sighed and returned to her book, missing Astoria's concerned expression. The feeling of Harry's magic still caused her fingertips to tingle pleasantly. Her eyes began to water, despite her valiant efforts to prevent it.
"Daph," Astoria said gently, sensing that perhaps privacy would best serve Daphne so she could regain her tenuous composure. Still, she did not want to give Daphne the impression that she was abandoning her. "I was going to go speak with the Gryffindor quidditch team for a bit… Do- Do you need me to-"
"No," Daphne interrupted, looking up after surreptitiously swiping her eyes and forcing a smile on her face. "Go enjoy your time with your friends. I'm fine, Tori."
Astoria narrowed her eyes and studied Daphne who was doing everything to not break down. Her efforts must have succeeded because, with a slow nod, Astoria stood and departed. As soon as the door closed, Daphne recast the necessary privacy charms and returned to her book.
She lost track of the words as her vision blurred from the rapidly forming tears. The first teardrop splashed on her text, staining it and Daphne slammed the book closed.
Damn it, Daphne thought irritably.
She sniffled and drew her knees up to her chin as she furiously rubbed her hand on the seat to try and remove the tingling it still experienced. Looking out the window, Daphne watched the countryside pass by for several minutes as silent tears ran down her cheeks. Finally, she sighed and stood, using the sleeve of her robe to dry her face.
I probably look a mess… Daphne mused. I should make a quick trip to the loo to fix my appearance, so Tori doesn't worry.
Daphne exited her compartment and timidly made her way to the nearby loo where she spent a good five minutes ensuring she looked immaculate. After washing her hands several times, the tingling finally left her fingers, allowing her to firmly regain her composure.
Satisfied, Daphne exited and returned to her compartment, swiftly reapplying the charms and wards. She turned to her seat and gasped as her Potions book, or what was left of it, was in tatters. Pages were burnt, ripped, and shredded, leaving a husk of a book. Daphne gingerly grabbed what remained and thumbed through it before dropping it as furious tears of hurt ran freely.
It's not true! Daphne told herself. I'm none of those things! I'm not! Andi said I'm not!
What remained of the book was covered with ugly, hurtful words that Daphne didn't want to repeat nor give any further thought to. With a remorseful wave of her wand, she cast a silent Incendio, removing the text from existence. Then, Daphne sunk into her seat, drew her knees up to her chest, and sobbed heavily into her knees.
Appearances be damned.
-GU-
September 2, 1996 (Hogwarts – Morning)
Daphne sat at the end of the Slytherin table, forcing herself to eat a heavy breakfast, as Andromeda and Tonks had beat into her that she needed to eat. She glanced over at the staff table where Tonks was chatting amiably with Flitwick and McGonagall. The new DADA Professor, with bubblegum pink hair proudly displayed, glanced over at Daphne and shot her a wink.
Daphne smiled slightly and returned to her meal as the Heads of House began passing out schedules. Astoria came blazing into the Great Hall, running late as she was still 'catching up' on all the sleep she had missed out on over the years. The vibrant girl gave her older sister a strong hug before moving to discuss the upcoming quidditch tryouts with the Gryffindors.
Daphne watched her go and smiled wistfully before a shadow cast itself over her. She jumped and looked up to see a large, balding man with a rotund belly, wearing Slytherin robes. Immediately, she recognized Professor Horace Slughorn, the new Potions Master, and Head of House for Slytherin.
"Professor Slughorn," Daphne greeted in a shy voice. "Good morning, Sir."
"Ah, Miss Greengrass," Slughorn smiled sympathetically before seating himself beside Daphne, causing the bench to groan in protest at supporting his weight. "I have your schedule for you, my dear, and I must say I'm quite impressed with what you've accomplished! Ten OWLS! Merlin's beard!"
Daphne blushed under the praise and demurely bowed her head. "Th- Thank you, Professor."
"Oh, the praise is well-deserved!" Slughorn chuckled, his belly jiggling slightly from the action. "Obviously, you have the pick of the litter, so to speak, when it comes to classes. So! What will you be pursuing?"
"A- Al- Almost all of them," Daphne stammered before expanding. "Charms, Transfiguration, Defense, Herbology, Arithmancy, Ancient Runes, and Potions."
Slughorn's eyes bulged comically, and his eyebrows raised to his hairline. "My goodness!" he exclaimed, shifting slightly in his shock, and sending the bench creaking once more. "Surely you know there is no career that requires seven NEWTS?"
Daphne nodded. "Yes, Sir. I- I just want to make sure I have lots of options."
Understanding flashed across Slughorn's irises and he nodded grimly. "I see, and given your current situation, I do not fault you." He pulled his wand out and tapped it to the blank piece of parchment he was holding, causing it to magically fill. "Your schedule, Miss Greengrass."
Slughorn forced himself to stand with a grunt, the bench echoing his sentiments, and turned to Daphne once more. "I do hope you know that I find bullying reprehensible. Should any student attempt to do so to you, I trust you'll make me aware?"
Daphne gave a hesitant nod.
"My office door is always open to you, Miss Greengrass," Slughorn promised. "And I look forward to seeing you continue to excel in your studies."
Daphne muttered an embarrassed thanks and studied her schedule, brightening slightly as she realized she had double Potions first. Her countenance dropped almost immediately, however, as she realized her Potions book had been destroyed on the Express.
Astoria sat down next to Daphne with a huff, causing Daphne to look at her in surprise.
"I really wish you hadn't burnt the evidence," Astoria grumbled. "Sasha could have easily tracked down the offenders."
Daphne gave a toothless smile as she listened to her sister rant on about the injustices of the world and how no one was going to bully her big sister and get away with it. Not while she had access to a lethal basilisk who was vibrating with excitement at the mention of exacting justice.
Sasha hissed and spat, occasionally baring her fangs, as Astoria continued to ramble on, apparently speaking with the basilisk as if she could understand her. Daphne watched for several minutes with a blank expression on her face.
"Does Sasha understand you, Tori?" Daphne questioned softly, causing both snake and sister to turn their heads in her direction.
"Um, yeah?" Astoria looked at Sasha, who swiveled to stare at her comically. "At least, she certainly acts like she does."
Sasha purred.
"I mean, she speaks her own language, yeah?" Astoria asked as she rubbed Sasha's snout. "So, why would she not be able to recognize other languages? What if Sasha understands us perfectly, but can't speak English?"
"Kind of like Fawkes," Daphne murmured.
Sasha spat and looked around the room for any sign of 'The Fawkes'.
"Oh, hush!" Astoria swatted Sasha, causing Daphne's eyes to nearly fall out of their sockets. "You know Fawkes enjoys riling you up!"
Did Astoria just swat a basilisk? Daphne asked herself, still flabbergasted.
Sasha appeared apologetic and settled down atop Astoria's shoulder. Satisfied, Astoria gave Daphne a parting hug and another promise to hunt down and bring justice to whoever destroyed her book. Once Astoria had gone, Daphne sighed and grabbed her bag, but not before another person plopped down beside her.
"Wotcher, Blondie," Tonks greeted with a grin.
"Are you sure it's a good idea to show favoritism this early in the term?" Daphne glanced around her, acutely aware of the many eyes now watching.
"As if I care," Tonks snorted and poked Daphne in the ribs, causing the girl to squeak. "I'm the Professor, yeah? So, I control their grades. Muahaha!"
Daphne blinked.
"But enough about my evil plans," Tonks waved off the discussion and leaned forward conspiratorially. "You didn't actually believe we weren't going to continue your lessons while at school, did you?"
Daphne paled and began hastily attempting to make a retreat, inhibited by Tonks latching on to her bag as she futilely tugged at it. "No! Please! Anything but that, Tonks!"
"Ah-Ah!" Tonks tutted teasingly. "That's Professor Tonks to you, Blondie! And I think a detention might be in order..."
Daphne sunk back into the bench, all strength fleeing her body. "You're evil…"
"It's for your own good, Daphne," Tonks whispered, her tone shifting to one of severity. "Do you remember what I told you just before you boarded the Express?"
Daphne bit her lower lip and nodded.
"Say it," Tonks demanded.
"I'm no one's punching bag," Daphne said in a warbly voice.
"Damn straight," Tonks grunted and gave Daphne a one-armed hug. "Tuesday and Thursday nights."
"Th- Thank you, Tonks."
"Sure thing, Blondie," Tonks stood and twirled her wand. "Oh, and don't forget, my office is obviously open whenever you want to come visit."
"As is mine," a stern voice said, causing Daphne to drop her bag in surprise.
"Min- I mean, Profes- I mean, Headmistress!" Daphne finally managed to get out.
McGonagall cracked a rare smile. "Breathe, Daphne."
Daphne gulped in a huge breath and nodded, her face red.
"I trust you'll visit," McGonagall stated, not asking.
Daphne nodded numbly.
"Good," McGonagall appeared appeased. "I do enjoy our teatime." She began to walk back to the staff table before pausing. "Oh, and Miss Greengrass, we will discover who damaged your property and punishment will be remitted."
The statement was made in a louder tone, and the Great Hall chatter diminished greatly.
"Thank you," Daphne squeaked.
After Professor Flitwick also made a public showing of support, Daphne was finally able to scramble out of the Great Hall and to her Potions class. A part of her wanted to kill Astoria for telling Tonks, who then clearly told McGonagall who then told the rest of the staff.
But another part of her was immensely grateful that she did have friends who would stand up for her, even if they weren't her age.
-GU-
"Ah, Miss Greengrass, just in time!" Slughorn greeted as Daphne stumbled into the class, out of breath and clutching her bag to her. She took an empty seat, blatantly aware that none would partner with her, despite the class format almost requiring one.
She trusted Slughorn would have a plan and made her lack of Potions book clear, which Slughorn had already been informed of. He instructed her to retrieve a book from the shelves in the back and she promised she would order a new book at lunch.
When she found two textbooks to choose from, Daphne went with the older, more weathered version, feeling it had more character than the newer text. She was quite surprised, when turning to the instructed page, to find it was layered with notes in the margins in tiny, scrawling text.
Her desire to investigate was interrupted by Slughorn beginning the class and asking the students to identify three Potions. Daphne, having continued to delve into her studies, even over the summer, immediately recognized the first.
"It's Polyjuice," Daphne spoke up confidently.
"Right you are, Miss Greengrass," Slughorn chortled. "Take five points." He gestured to the next, a vibrant pink potion that smelled like broom polish and cedar and reminded her of…"
Daphne swallowed heavily, her eyes watering as a horrible truth settled on her shoulders. She struggled to retain control as she croaked out the correct answer. "It's Amortentia."
Slughorn gave her a sympathetic smile and nodded encouragingly, pointing to a vibrant gold potion. "And this?"
"Felix Felicis," Daphne replied in a watery voice.
"Well done, Miss Greengrass," Slughorn said in a gentle tone. "Take ten points, and you may return to your seat."
Daphne nodded gratefully and hastily returned, quickly burying her face in her arms as she struggled to comprehend why she smelled cedar and broom polish when exposed to the most powerful love potion in existence. Oh, she knew those smells; having recovered nearly every true memory of her times with Harry.
It's true, Daphne thought miserably. I've been trying to deny it to myself, but I still love him. I just… I never got the chance to tell him.
-GU-
September 6, 1996 (Hogwarts – Midday)
Daphne accepted the delivered package from the Owl Post, giving the owl a rasher of bacon as payment, and unwrapped her new Potions book with a sigh. She was quite enjoying the self-proclaimed Half-Blood Prince's book. Her desire to do the right thing, however, caused her to cut her lunch short and head to Professor Slughorn's office.
Arriving, she knocked gently on the door and waited for the call to enter. Pushing the door open, she found Slughorn lounging in his chair, grading third year essays.
"Miss Greengrass!" He greeted Daphne with a smile. "I trust all is well?"
"Yes, Professor," Daphne smiled politely. "I just wanted to speak with you regarding this textbook you loaned me."
Slughorn raised an eyebrow.
"You see," Daphne continued, "the textbook I ordered came in the mail, but I find I much prefer the one you lent me and was wondering if I…" she trailed off and took a deep breath. "If I could, perhaps, exchange my new one for this old one?"
"…I find that request quite… odd," Slughorn said after a pause.
"Yes, Sir," Daphne nodded and produced the weathered textbook, handing it to Slughorn who took it and began thumbing through it. "As you'll see, the previous owner took copious notes, many of which I am personally already aware. However, there have been quite a few techniques I was unaware of that sound very promising."
She looked down at her feet, her hair covering her face in a golden curtain. "I would like to continue learning from that text, if you'll allow it, Sir."
Slughorn produced his wand and cast several spells, many of which Daphne didn't know, before finally shrugging and returning the book. "A fair exchange, I believe," he gave a gracious smile. "I see no issue with you retaining that book, especially seeing you have the courtesy to replace it."
Daphne gratefully produced her new textbook and eagerly handed it over. "Thank you! Thank you, Professor!" she gushed excitedly. "I find the knowledge here truly fascinating!"
Slughorn chuckled. "It's my pleasure, Miss Greengrass," his expression shifted suddenly, and he leaned forward. "You will tell me if you find anything dark or harmful in there, understood?"
Daphne gulped and nodded fervently. "Of course, Professor!"
"Wonderful," Slughorn clapped his hands. "I don't suppose you'd like to stay and grade papers?" he asked teasingly, fully expecting Daphne to bolt from the room.
"Um, I'd love to," Daphne said timidly. "My next class doesn't start for another hour."
Slughorn looked up in surprise and studied Daphne for several silent moments. He exhaled slowly and gave an encouraging smile. "I welcome your aid, Miss Greengrass."
"Daphne."
"Then you may call me Horace, Daphne."
-GU-
September 21, 1996 (Hogwarts – Evening)
Daphne sat in Headmistress McGonagall's office, humming to herself as she pored over several books she'd checked out of the library. Madam Pince had a soft spot for Daphne, who spent quite a bit of time in the library, never causing trouble, and therefore allowed the girl to check out more books than was usually allotted.
It didn't really bother Daphne that she spent all her free time either training with Tonks or reading. She at least had several locations she read in, like the library, or Professor Flitwick, McGonagall, Tonks or Slughorn's offices. The Room of Requirement, now public knowledge thanks to Harry's memories, was unavailable due to being put under strict guard.
Daphne found herself quite fascinated with who the Half-Blood Prince was. His knowledge was, well, staggering. Daphne spent hours poring over the tome, learning, and absorbing all she could. Just last week she had finally determined to unravel the mystery of the previous owner, and thus had checked out several lineage texts from Madam Pince.
It was getting late, however, and Minerva would scold her for stretching curfew. With a yawn, Daphne packed her things, finished her tea, thanked Minerva profusely, and departed.
Minerva watched her favorite student leave and finally let out a huff once the door to her office closed. Daphne remained isolated, and while Minerva wanted to punish any student foolish enough to even glare at the poor girl, she knew that simply wasn't fair or practical.
People were allowed to express their opinions, even if Minerva knew them to be wrong.
Oh, but how she longed to curse Rita Skeeter for continuing to infer the rubbish she wrote about Daphne being the sole reason Harry Potter had abandoned Britain.
Shaking those dark thoughts away, Minerva ran over the previous conversations she had carried out with Andromeda just the day prior. Progress reports on Daphne were a regular occurrence amongst those intent on seeing the girl healed. Both Minerva and Andromeda agreed that Daphne needed an outlet to focus her inquisitive and investigative nature, as well as to take her mind off what was going on around her.
The introduction to this textbook appeared to do the trick, and Minerva was glad to see Daphne enjoying herself. Horace had, of course, ensured that the book was harmless, although Minerva still scolded him for being lazy and not thoroughly scouring the notes.
Seeing Daphne humming and smiling to herself, however, had been enough for the usually stern Headmistress. She would continue to monitor Daphne and ensure the girl attained her goal of becoming an Auror. A goal recently expressed to both Andromeda and her through private conversations.
Minerva stood and suppressed a groan as her old bones protested. As she prepared for bed, she found herself hoping that Daphne's investigation would keep her occupied for months to come.
Especially if it made her smile.
-GU-
September 28, 1996 (Hogwarts – Evening)
"You want to try some random spell you found in an old textbook?" Tonks questioned incredulously. "You realize, Blondie, that there is no way to know what this spell does, yeah?"
"Which is exactly why we should try it, don't you think?" Daphne questioned innocently.
"Um… No?"
"And that's why you're here," Daphne added.
Tonks grumbled and waved her wand to bring a training dummy to the center of the room.
"Don't cast anything yet," she commanded, continuing to mutter charms under her breath.
Eventually, the DADA professor seemed satisfied, and she gave the go ahead to Daphne.
"Sectumsempra!" Daphne said, and then gasped in horror as deep gouges cut into the training dummy all along its torso.
"Holy shite!" Tonks swore, wide-eyed.
Daphne lowered her wand, barely holding on to it with how badly she was trembling.
"That would easily kill someone," Tonks commented after inspecting the dummy. She turned to see Daphne holding out the book with both hands.
"Take it," Daphne indicated to the outstretched tome.
"Why?" Tonks questioned, surprised.
"Anyone who invents a spell like that can't be good," Daphne said immediately. "I don't want to learn from someone like that."
"Have a seat, Blondie," Tonks instructed after kicking out a chair in Daphne's direction. She grabbed her own and pulled it over to Daphne who sat down, clearly befuddled. "You do understand that a spell like that one is dead useful in a fight, yeah? It could save your life."
"It would kill-" Daphne began to protest.
"A lot of spells can kill," Tonks waved away the argument. "Hell, a Windardium Leviosa can easily kill if you levitate the person high enough. Does that make it an evil spell?"
Daphne frowned. "That's not the same and you know it. This spell has no practical use outside of hurting someone."
"Use it for self-defense then," Tonks winked. "I'm not saying to cast it if someone is bullying you. But if someone threatens you and intends to hurt you? Use it freely."
Daphne sighed as her argument faltered and collapsed. "Fine…"
"Who knows, there may be a counter curse in there somewhere," Tonks quipped as she stood. "Well, since you're here, we may as well have a little spar, yeah?"
Daphne groaned.
"And no using that new spell, obviously," Tonks added with a laugh.
-GU-
October 31, 1996 (Hogwarts – Morning)
Daphne slowly ate her breakfast, smiling as Astoria happily gave a play-by-play of the recent Gryffindor-Slytherin quidditch game, in which she, being the Gryffindor Seeker,caught the snitch. Daphne, who had attended the game, had felt unspeakable joy at seeing her baby sister compete at quidditch and having fun without worry of a blood curse episode.
Daphne also had to admit she found Sasha's participation hilarious, considering the basilisk flat out refused to be parted from Astoria, even when she was playing quidditch, and no one was foolish enough to attempt to separate them. There were no official rules against a basilisk's participation, and therefore no ability to penalize said basilisk using her death glare on an incoming bludger that suddenly wobbled precariously in the air before plummeting lifeless onto the pitch.
Madam Hooch had been at a loss upon seeing a bludger rendered inert. Astoria chose to capitalize her opportunity by laughing maniacally while flying around in pursuit of the snitch. Seemingly sensing Astoria's intention, Sasha had reared up and bared her fangs at anyone who came remotely close. No one blamed the Slytherin seeker for staying on the opposite side of the field, and no one begrudged the sound thumping Gryffindor gave Slytherin.
At least not publicly… Turned out, as Daphne already knew, that Astoria was a very sore winner.
But Daphne currently found her mind caught up in the monumental discovery she had made regarding a certain textbook she found herself quite fond of. Said textbook now sat untouched in her bag as she debated who to tell first. A flurry of owls diving among students distracted her from her thoughts – and Astoria from her story.
Daphne retrieved her copy of the Prophet, placing her sickle in the pouch, and began reading. It didn't take long for her blood to run cold. Astoria, sensing the change in atmosphere, immediately leaned over, poking her head beneath Daphne's arm.
"What happened?"
"Dumbledore escaped…" Daphne said, her voice strained and choked.
"WHAT?!"
Astoria forced Daphne to accommodate her so she could read alongside her older sister.
DUMBLEDORE ESCAPES GRINGOTTS MINING PRISON
Gringotts was in uproar this morning as it has recently been discovered that the dastardly Albus Dumbledore – whose fall from grace can be read about in my upcoming book, 'The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore' – has escaped his imprisonment by the Goblin nation.
Gringotts was unable – or unwilling – to provide a response regarding their ongoing investigation. However, never let it be said that this reporter does not do her due diligence! I have obtained, at great personal risk, photographs of the crime scene. I must warn you, dear readers, that the following images may be disturbing…
Astoria and Daphne both gasped as they saw the images of several Goblin bodies. Astoria gasped at the amount of blood and gore, but Daphne gasped for a completely different reason. For there were several Goblins whose chests appeared ruptured with many deep cuts. Cuts that looked suspiciously…
Sectumsempra, Daphne thought in shock. The Greengrass girls continued reading.
…It is unknown if this is the work of Albus himself, which brings into question exactly how the legendary Wizard was able to use magic when under three suppressing cuffs. Or did he have aid from an unknown accomplice? I admit I myself have speculated that Severus Snape aided in this tragic escape.
However, let me remind you, dear readers, that Severus Snape was freed from Azkaban during an assault by You-Know-Who, who made his displeasure with his previous servants most known. The fact that Snape's body was never found indicates that he is firmly on the side of the crazed He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named.
Alas, one must bring to question, 'What if?'
As everyone now knows, Harry Potter easily disarmed the great Albus Dumbledore with a mere snap of his fingers. One must ask, 'What if Harry Potter were still in Britain?'
Would You-Know-Who still be lurking in the shadows? Would Albus Dumbledore dare to escape knowing such a powerful foe stands vigilant over this great nation?
Sadly, it seems we shall never know, as Harry Potter remains absent from our world. No credible sightings of Harry Potter have been made in a year, and the Ministry has rightly added hefty fines for those who dare give false reports of Harry Potter's whereabouts.
Minister of Magic Amelia Bones had this to say:
"I hope that, wherever Harry Potter is, he is happy and enjoying his freedom. While we recognize the loss of a national icon, Mister Potter made his decision, and no one can fault him for it. For now, know that the Ministry is working closely with the Goblin nation to ascertain how Albus Dumbledore escaped, and to bring him to swift justice once he is apprehended – Which he will be!"
A wonderful statement from our strong administration, and this reporter breathes a sigh of relief when she hears such confident words. I hope the rest of you will join me in wishing Harry Potter all the best, wherever he is. As you know, he endured hardship that boggles the mind.
For more on Harry Potter, his past, experiences at Hogwarts, and his tragic, ill-fated romance with Daphne Greengrass, see page 6.
Rita Skeeter
Daily Prophet Reporter
The general din of chatter in the Great Hall began to rise in volume as more and more students began discussing the great escape of Albus Dumbledore. Astoria snarled as she finished the article and slammed it down on the table.
"Don't you listen to this shite, Daphne!" Astoria said viciously. "Rita Skeeter will get what's coming to her one day, mark my words!"
Daphne offered a half-smile as her eyes frantically sought out Headmistress McGonagall.
"I have to go, Tori," Daphne said distantly.
"Go ahead," Astoria said glumly. "I'll deal with anyone who wants to voice their opinions too loudly." Sasha hissed angrily and bared her fangs in agreement.
Daphne darted away, hurrying to the staff table. "Headmistress!" she called.
"Yes, Daphne?" McGonagall questioned, her face pale as she too read the article.
"I need to speak with you. It- It's urgent."
"Daphne," McGonagall said, leaning forward and lowering her voice. "As you can see, I'm quite busy-"
"It's Snape," Daphne blurted.
"What?"
"Snape," Daphne said again. "He's the one who freed Dumbledore."
McGonagall sat back in her chair, a frown marring her features. "How?"
"I don't know," Daphne shook her head, confused.
"No, not how did he free Albus," McGonagall clarified. "How do you know Severus is the one who helped Albus escape?"
Daphne fidgeted and looked over at Tonks who gave her an encouraging nod.
"Can we… Can we talk elsewhere? Please?" Daphne pleaded.
"My office. Five minutes."
Daphne nodded and scurried away. Minerva turned to Tonks and huffed. "You too, Dora."
"Yes ma'am," Tonks mock-saluted and bolted.
-GU-
"Explain," Minerva demanded once she, Dora and Daphne were all comfortable in her office.
"I figured out who the Half-Blood Prince was," Daphne said shakily.
Tonks gasped. "You never told me!"
"I only figured it out last night," Daphne admitted.
"And what does your Potions textbook have to do with Albus escaping prison?" Minerva demanded sternly.
"Th- The spell," Daphne fumbled for words. "The one pictured in the paper."
"The spell used to kill the Goblin guards," Tonks clarified.
"It is detestable our Ministry would even allow such a thing to be shown," Minerva spat.
"It's called Sectumsempra," Daphne said timidly. "Tonks and I tried it once after I discovered it in the book."
"Obviously, I explained when it was acceptable to use," Tonks defended as Minerva turned her rising ire toward the newest DADA Professor. "You know as well as I, Minnie, that any spell can be used for hurting."
"True…" Minerva begrudgingly admitted. "You are convinced then, that Severus is the Half-Blood Prince?"
"Yes ma'am," Daphne nodded solemnly.
"Elaborate."
Daphne took a deep breath. "The book was found in the Potions classroom, so I assumed it was a former student who had left it behind. Seeing as all I had was a potential surname, I began researching the student logs for anyone with Prince as their last name. It took several weeks, but eventually I stumbled across someone named Eileen Prince."
McGonagall's nostrils flared. "The President of the Gobstone Club?"
"Yes," Daphne nodded eagerly. "She was captain of the Hogwarts Gobstones team during her fifth year, while concurrently the President of the Gobstone Club."
"…And?" Minerva pressed.
"…And she married a muggle named Tobias Snape," Daphne said nervously. "Once I had confirmed the name Prince was a former Wizarding family, I checked known Wizarding heritage trees and found that Eileen married a muggle named Tobias Snape and caused the Prince line to end with the birth of Severus Snape and her subsequent lack of producing other heirs."
"How in Merlin's Beard did you get information on family heritage trees?" Minerva asked in awe. "Those are heavily protected, as you well know."
"I may have asked Professor Slughorn," Daphne admitted sheepishly. "He is good friends with the current Head of the Department of Commerce…"
"Of course, he is," Minerva rolled her eyes.
"…and I may have told him I wanted to review some heritage trees for a project I was working on…"
"A project?" Tonks asked dryly.
"I didn't say it was for school!" Daphne protested.
"You must have deeply endeared yourself to Horace, dear," Minerva said wryly.
"…I may help him grade papers…" Daphne mumbled.
Tonks burst into laughter, and Minerva allowed herself to release a very unladylike snort.
"You're like a niffler seeking treasure!" Tonks teased her friend.
"I didn't offer to grade papers because I needed something!" Daphne defended, incensed. "I started helping him grade papers shortly after term began. My desire for those heritage trees came much later!"
"Do you help Dora grade her papers too, Daphne?" Minerva asked, causing Tonks to quickly sober up and began miming for Daphne to keep her mouth shut.
"Yes."
"Oh, you are so going to pay, Blondie!" Tonks promised in mock outrage.
"I also help Professor Flitwick and you," Daphne indicated Minerva who shot a sly smirk at Tonks.
"Headmistress!" Tonks gasped if faux shock. "How could you abuse your power so?"
"Take it up with the Board," Minerva snarked before stalking over to the floo. "Daphne, are you willing to give a statement to the DMLE and Minister?"
"Y-Yes," Daphne stammered.
"Good," Minerva sniffed and ducked her head into the fireplace after casting the green powder in. A short conversation ensued, and Minerva stepped back, returning to her desk while the floo flared and Amelia Bones stepped out.
"Amy," Minerva greeted casually.
"'Hiya, Boss," Tonks saluted.
"Morgana, Minnie!" Amelia groused. "Please tell me I was not called here because of something Dora did!"
"I have a student here who has information on the escape of Albus Dumbledore."
"Oh?" Amelia perked up. "Who?"
"Me," Daphne waved shyly.
"Daphne Greengrass?" Amelia said, disbelief in her tone evident.
"Hear her out, Boss," Tonks pleaded. "I know you'll be impressed."
-GU-
"…I'm impressed," Amelia admitted roughly an hour later. "You recognized a spell, having only been used once by yourself, from a picture. Not to mention your tenacious pursuit of discovering the identity of this Half-Blood Prince."
Daphne flushed under the praise.
"Although I'm going to have to ignore what you told me about John…" Amelia grumbled, referring to the Head of the Department of Commerce.
"Horace can be quite persuasive," Minerva said dryly.
"Don't remind me," Amelia muttered before giving Daphne a critical eye. "You've got a sharp mind, kid, and you think like an Auror."
"Th- Thank you, Minister," Daphne stammered, trying to not wither under the praise. "It's my dream to one day be an Auror."
Amelia studied Daphne for several moments before apparently coming to a decision. She moved to the floo and called for someone. A tall, striking man entered shortly after; his hair arranged to look like that of a lion's mane. Daphne recognized him as Rufus Scrimgeour, the Head of the DMLE.
"Minister Bones," Rufus inclined his head. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"Rufus, I'd like you to meet Daphne Greengrass," Amelia gestured to the girl.
Rufus' eyebrows disappeared into his mane of hair before he composed himself, clearing his throat. "Miss Greengrass, a pleasure."
"Thank you, Sir," Daphne said meekly.
"Daphne here gave us a huge lead on the Dumbledore escape," Amelia said. "I'll fill you in shortly, but I wanted to inquire if you're still breaking down the Trial files?"
"You know we are, Minister," Scrimgeour replied stiffly.
"I'd like a copy of all the files sent to Daphne here."
"I'll have them to her by the end of the day," Scrimgeour said, not questioning the order.
"Excellent. I'll be by your office within the hour to discuss what we've learned."
"I look forward to it," Scrimgeour bowed and made his exit through the floo.
"Wh- What are the Trial files?" Daphne asked in confusion.
Amelia took a seat across from Daphne and grinned at her. "The Trial files are all of the interviews, raid reports, and transcripts of the trials that occurred for each and every Death Eater along with Fudge, Umbridge and Dumbledore."
Daphne blinked.
"Listen, kid," Amelia sighed and leaned back in her chair. "The Ministry is still at war. Harry Potter and yourself both got the short end of the stick for different reasons in this mess. What I know is we have two very dangerous Wizards on the loose: Voldemort and Albus Dumbledore."
"What does this have to do with some files, Amy?" Minerva asked, also confused.
"Nothing," Amelia admitted wryly. "This is my way of repaying a debt the Ministry owes Miss Greengrass here." She turned back to Daphne, "You want answers, yeah?"
Daphne nodded.
"You want to know exactly what you said, and what was not you."
Another nod, this time much more fervent.
"Then consider our debt settled," Amelia clapped her hands and stood. "If you find anything of import, I'll trust you'll contact me through Minnie here."
Daphne nodded a third time, completely dumbfounded.
"Oh, and don't worry about your dream, Daphne," Amelia smiled down at her. "Once you've graduated, I'll fast track your application. We can always use bright minds like yours in the force."
"Thank you!" Daphne gasped, shocked and humbled.
"No, thank you, Daphne," Amelia said and, with a final wave, vanished in a flash of green flame.
"What the bloody hell was that?" Tonks asked the room.
"Politics, Dora," Minerva rolled her eyes. "I would have thought you'd have experienced that by now."
Tonks scoffed. "You kidding me? I barely made it through the Academy. It's a good thing we've been training together, Blondie. The Auror program is hell!"
Daphne wasn't listening, too intent on the revelation that all the data would soon be at her fingertips. She could finally answer the burning questions that lingered in her mind regarding all that had occurred over the years. Questions which her limited participation in the trials and the news articles she had read simply had not been able to answer.
And, once I understand, I can tell Harry! Daphne thought feverishly. I'll find him and explain everything.
As Daphne began bouncing in her chair with barely repressed glee, she failed to note the sad gleam in Minerva's eyes.
Then maybe there can be a chance again, Daphne told herself. A chance we can be together.
-GU-
December 25, 1996 (Hogwarts – Midday)
My Dearest Daphne,
It pains me to write this, my daughter, but I feel you deserve the truth.
The Greengrass fortune is nearly spent.
When 'he' died, many of our business dealings that were illicit crumbled, cutting our fortune in half. Upon learning of the assault on your character by the Daily Prophet, I contacted a Solicitor and began a suit against the Daily Prophet, namely Rita Skeeter, for defamation of character.
For months I have been silently fighting a battle so that you, my baby girl, no longer must suffer such an injustice as having your person attacked verbally for other people's entertainment.
Sadly, the Daily Prophet is backed by the Ministry, and the Ministry has far deeper coffers than our family. I now run the risk of bankrupting our family if I continue the fight. My anticipated Christmas gift to you was the assurance that your name would no longer be slandered.
I have failed in that pursuit, and I feel I have failed you as a mother in the process.
I tell you this as I leave the decision to you now, my baby. Do I continue to fight for you and risk losing what we have left? Or do I stand by and allow this injustice to continue?
My heart tells me to fight on and damn the consequences. But I believe that the decision should be yours, as I could not bear bringing further heartbreak to you, Daphne.
To alleviate your concerns, I have the means to finish putting both you and Tori through Hogwarts and am actively seeking employment so I can better support you both.
I love you so desperately, my daughter, and am so very proud of you. I only wish I could have provided you with the Christmas gift you deserved.
With love from your mother,
Aria Greengrass
Daphne lowered the letter, uncaring of the tears she freely shed. Her mother loved her and was fighting for her. The thought, however, that it was going to cost what little the Greengrass family had left to its name devastated her. Daphne couldn't bear the thought of Aria spending the last remnants of the Greengrass family fortune fighting a losing battle over her character.
Simply put, Daphne didn't feel she was worth the battle.
So, with a heavy heart, Daphne trudged up to the seventh floor, prepared to fully humble herself, and entered Headmistress McGonagall's office after providing the password.
Minerva never withheld the password to her office from her.
"Daphne?" she heard the worried voice of her mentor call but was unable to register it through her sobs. "What's wrong?"
She held out the letter with a shaking hand before collapsing into a nearby chair and sobbing bitterly as Minerva read the letter stoically. Daphne felt the elder woman embrace her lovingly after having finished reading the letter.
"Hush, child," Minerva whispered comfortingly. "You know I will fund your education. You never had to ask."
"It's hard," Daphne hiccupped. "I want mum to keep fighting – but I can't allow it. Tori deserves to have a normal life, even if that means mine is forever shadowed by Rita Skeeter."
Daphne fell silent for several moments, the only sounds were her sobs and sniffles. "But it still hurts…" she admitted.
"How is your project going, dear?" Minerva asked as she gently stroked Daphne's hair, wanting to deviate away from the current subject.
"I've organized the files so I can begin reviewing them," Daphne admitted. "It's been therapeutic in a way, knowing that I will soon be able to better understand what was really me and what was all them."
"That's good," Minerva praised calmly. "I'm happy you've found something to keep you occupied that isn't just studying and reading texts."
"Or practicing spells or dueling Tonks," Daphne blurted with a shaky laugh.
There was silence once more before Daphne spoke in a broken voice that nearly shattered Minerva's typically stoic façade.
"I wish I wasn't a burden, Minerva."
"Who accused you of being a burden?" Minerva whispered harshly.
Daphne didn't answer. Her shoulders shook with silent sobs as Minerva continued to run her hand through Daphne's hair. After several minutes, Daphne finally spoke in a husky voice, thick with emotion.
"Everyone looks at me like I'm a pariah. I don't want mum to bankrupt our family trying to fight a losing battle… Especially when Rita's right." Daphne took a stuttering breath. "I'm the reason Harry left. It's my fault."
The words were uttered in such a defeated tone. Minerva found herself unable to comment and instead continued her soothing motion until Daphne fell into a light slumber. Standing, Minerva made a floo call, exchanging a few whispered words, before she stepped back, and Andromeda Tonks entered the office.
"Daphne," Andromeda whispered as she knelt, gently forcing the girl to look at her. "We've been over this. Nothing that happened was your fault, dear."
Daphne didn't question why Andromeda was suddenly there. She stubbornly shook her head.
"I broke my promises to him, Andi," she sobbed. "Both of them! I hurt him…" She sniffled before croaking out, "I left him…"
"Are you having nightmares, Daphne?" Andromeda asked gently.
Daphne nodded slowly.
"Frequently?"
Another nod.
"They are always of…" Daphne swallowed heavily. "My mind being altered."
"Your Occlumency barriers are still extremely fragile, Daphne," Andromeda explained. "It will take years for your mind to heal. Unfortunately, nightmares will still be prevalent until your mental shields strengthen."
Daphne sighed heavily.
"You still haven't forgiven yourself," Andromeda observed.
Daphne shook her head. "I can forgive myself when I give him the completed binder and fulfill my last promise."
"Daphne, you wrote that letter when you were eight."
"I know," Daphne sniffled. "I know it's silly."
There was a long silence before Daphne took a deep breath.
"I still love him, you know," she admitted.
"We know," Minerva and Andromeda chorused, both smiling encouragingly.
"It doesn't make sense for me to," Daphne shrugged. "But I do. Professor Slughorn brewed amortentia earlier this year, and it smelled just like Harry…" She bit her lower lip. "It confirmed what I knew deep down."
"Have you worked out why you love him?" Andromeda questioned.
Daphne hiccoughed and covered her face as she began to sob. "He always protected me. How can I not love him? He endured so much just for the promise of being with me. Malfoy, a Mountain Troll, a basilisk… His family…"
Minerva passed Daphne a cup of tea which she took with shaky hands.
"I think I first fell in love with him when he hid me from them. He was so worried, and he didn't care that he was going to be beaten. He just wanted me to be safe. As soon as his uncle left the room, he ordered Dobby to take me away so I would be safe."
She tried to have a sip of tea but found herself shaking too badly.
"He offered himself in my place so Draco would leave me alone," Daphne whispered miserably as her shoulders bobbed up and down from her sobbing. "He took a basilisk fang for me."
Andromeda carefully removed the steaming teacup and set it aside on the nearby side table before embracing Daphne.
"Skeeter thinks Harry is tragically bound to love me because of his family magic," Daphne muttered into Andromeda's chest. "Family magic doesn't work that way. I refuse to believe his feelings were manufactured, Andi."
"I've spent countless hours with Harry in his mind," Andromeda whispered as Daphne continued to cry. "You always held a special place in his mindscape. I want to agree that no family magic could force such a thing, but I also went through those moments where he was physically ill from attempting to pursue anyone other than you."
Daphne nodded and pulled away, uncaring about her appearance. She moved her hair, currently in disarray, from her face.
"Well, whatever it was, he broke it so he could be free of me," she whispered with a grimace. "I don't expect forgiveness, or even understanding, should I ever find him. I just want to be able to tell Harry that I'm sorry and ask him what he wants for healing Astoria."
"Harry won't want anything," Andromeda said.
Daphne shrugged. "Maybe. Once I fulfill whatever he requests, then I can forgive my part in what happened. I'll know that I at least didn't break the first promise I ever made to him."
She stood before Minerva or Andromeda could comment. "Thank you both for listening. I'm tired though and would like to sleep."
"Daphne, it's only just past noon."
Daphne replied with a pained smile.
"You can join us for dinner?" Andromeda offered, looking at Minerva who gave a short, approving nod.
"I don't think I'd be good company," Daphne muttered as she made her way to the door. "Thank you though. Tell Tonks and Ted, 'Happy Christmas' for me."
Andromeda watched Daphne depart and sighed softly when she heard her door close.
"She's half right, Minnie," Andromeda whispered to her friend. "Harry did want to be free, but I'm not convinced it was to be free from Daphne."
