Chapter 22 The Moon Appears
3rd September 1993, unknown location
It doesn't take long before Harry can look around and he sees a place he has never seen before. The place where he is seems to be almost endless. Dobby lets go of Harry and looks up to Harry.
Harry asks "Where are we, Dobby?"
Dobby says "A place where Master wanted to go. A place only a few wizards and witches know of. This is the come-and-go room. Dobby and the other elves at Hogwarts call it the come-and-go room, Dobby doesn't know if witches and wizards have another name or if the Founders had another name when it was made. Anything Master wants, the room can give. It should be in the castle only then the room can give it to Master."
Harry asks anything and Dobby nods enthusiastically like he always thought. Harry starts to think. The room starts to change. It turns into a living room. The living room resembles the living room that is at the Tonkses House with a fireplace and everything. The fireplace has a small fire and Harry wonders if he can use the floo from here for the chance he may ever need it. He doesn't want to try out as he hates floo travel. If he uses it he would need to be desperate and that is if it even works.
After a few minutes, he feels like someone is trying to find him. He wants to resist but he doesn't know how he can resist and he can't deny the magic feels good. It takes a good 15 minutes before the feeling and magic disappear. Without asking Dobby, Dobby has brought food and drinks. Harry eats during the feeling and notices that the food does make him feel better, but he knows that the girls, Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey will hate him for being weak.
Athena and Hedwig have both taken a place. Just like in his room with the Tonkses, there is a perch for Hedwig where she is. Athena on the other hand is near the fireplace with a small fire, that makes the room have a nice temperature, going.
Harry sits on a cosy couch. He sits close to the fire and the perch is next to the couch.
Harry feels tired and hungry but other than that he is slowly feeling better than when he woke up in the Hospital Wing ….. again. He used magic and that tired him out very much. He knows he didn't use a lot of magic and wonders why it was tiring him out.
Dobby pops in with food. Harry thanks Dobby for the food before he attacks it. When he is done Dobby has made some bacon strips for Hedwig and some small meat pieces for Athena if she is hungry. Dobby also has two bowls with water if they are thirsty.
As Harry sees that Hedwig and Athena are cared for his tiredness hits him hard and he immediately falls asleep. Dobby pops in and asks the room for a big and comfy bed. The bed appears and Dobby levitates Harry to the bed before he asks the couch to disappear and places the bed with Harry in that place so he remains close to Hedwig and Athena.
After they are done eating Hedwig starts to sleep and Athena starts to rest. She quickly falls asleep too although you cannot tell as she doesn't have eyelids to close her eyes but she does use the special transparent eye-lid that shields her eyes that she would kill or petrify anyone with her eyes although she doesn't have those eyes in her muggle snake form. Athena thinks in time she probably has or at least can control it if needed just as when she uses Harry's magic she has her mouth full with sharp teeth just like she had when she was in her original form as a muggle snake has only two fangs to inject venom if they have venom while every one of her fangs can inject venom.
3rd September 1993, the Come and Go room, Hogwarts
A couple of hours later Harry gets woken by Dobby. Dobby heavily apologizes but as it is already after dinner and Harry wasn't in the Great Hall during dinner Dobby has brought food for Harry as he should do that as his House-elf especially as he needs it and because of the potions.
Harry says "It is alright. Dobby. Thank you for the food."
Harry notices he still wears clothes with blood stains and asks if Dobby could get him some new clothes out of his trunk. Dobby happily nods and would hug his leg if Harry didn't ask him to do something. Dobby is so happy as Harry is such a good master to him. Harry appreciates Dobby which seldom wizards Dobby know does, not that Dobby knows many wizards. Dobby just knows the Malfoy's never did…. well Lucius and Draco Malfoy never did.
Dobby is barely away a minute before Dobby comes back with a set of new clothes. Harry wonders about a screen and it appears within seconds. He changes behind the screen. When he returns he asks for a couch again. Before Dobby can do anything the bed disappear and is changed to a couch. Harry sits down and notices that the couch is very comfortable as much as the bed if not more.
Dobby immediately disappears when Harry starts to eat. Harry sees bacon strips for Hedwig and the meat pieces for Athena. Athena sis that she doesn't need food and Harry just shrugs as Athena seems fine.
When Harry is done without asking Dobby pops in with a dessert that is Harry's favourite, Treacle tart. Dobby takes the empty plate and everything else away. Harry had eaten his plate twice but Dobby was so worried he brought way too much even with Harry's new appetite. After Harry is done with the dessert Dobby takes it away and leaves Harry alone beside Hedwig and Athena.
After a little bit of time, Harry starts that he needs to do something. It feels like a pull and feels he must go somewhere. It doesn't feel that far away. He casts tempus and sees that is very close to curfew. He didn't intend to go back to the Common Room so he doesn't care about curfew. Harry decides to wait for another hour before he decides to leave the room as then most of the students will be in their beds, hopes Hermione is also in her bed and not that one of her is still around.
3rd September 1993, Hogwarts
When Harry leaves he is in a part of the castle he has never been in before. Athena is around his arm again and Hedwig is on his other shoulder.
There is a window nearby and walks to it. He sees that he is high up and thinks he is on the top floor of the tower he is in. He thinks he is close to the Gryffindor Common Room as he is in or near the North Tower where he has never been before. The closest he has come here before was the Gryffindor Common Room if he is right.
He walks away from the Gryffindor Common Room and walks down to the sixth floor before ascending another stairs back to the seventh floor. He doesn't know why but keeps following the pull. It isn't realised until he almost reaches the destination that he is in the astronomy tower and the pull draws him to the top of the tower which is forbidden except when you have class. It is Friday night so there shouldn't be a class at this time even though it is quite clear.
He slowly ascends the stairs for the chance he is wrong but he doesn't hear anything.
3rd September 1993, Astronomy Tower, Hogwarts
When Harry reaches the top of the stairs he sees that he is right. Nobody is there and he decides to sit near the edge of the tower to enjoy the sits and make sure Hedwig can fly around. Immediately Hedwig flies off his shoulder around the tower a few times before flying near Harry meaning also inside of the Tower's top floor.
Before Harry sits he looks at the beautiful night and looks at the moon. When he looks over the grounds he also sees Hagrid's hut with a light on meaning he is still awake. He wonders where Buckbeak is and looks at the Forbidden Forest but can't see anything.
Harry decides to just look at the beautiful night and not think about anyone or anything.
3rd September 1993, The Great Hall, Hogwarts
It is dinner time and Hermione is beside herself. She must have looked all over Hogwarts but she found Harry nowhere. She even tried to use his magic to find him but it just led her to the seventh floor near the North Tower at a blank wall. She doesn't know why he feels to be inside the wall but also not be there. Also, how can he be in the wall?
Professor McGonagall sees that Hermione is on edge. She is a bit surprised that Ginny Weasley is the same and both try to keep each other calm. She can see that Ginny has tears in her eyes meaning she probably knows about Harry being hurt by Buckbeak.
Professor McGonagall knows that she needs to let Andromeda Tonks and Sirius Black know that Harry is missing, but probably is still in Hogwarts. She knows she needs to ask Hermione to be sure if she still feels Harry close or at least close by if not in Hogwarts. Professor McGonagall also knows that she needs Hermione to ask the moment she doesn't feel him close anymore meaning he isn't in Hogwarts or on the grounds she needs to tell her immediately.
3rd September 1993, Professor McGonagall's office, Fifth floor, Gryffindor Tower, Hogwarts
Professor McGonagall asked Hermione and Ginny to her office. As soon as they enter Hermione says "I tried to find Harry, Professor McGonagall. I really did but I couldn't find him."
Professor McGonagall says "Please take a seat."
When they both said down Professor McGonagall says "I am sure you did Mis…. Hermione. Are you sure he is still in Hogwarts?"
Hermione nods her head. Professor McGonagall looks at Ginny and asks "Do you feel Harry too? And do you still think he is in Hogwarts?"
Ginny nods slowly and says "I think I do, but not nearly as much as Hermione. I think Harry will still be in the castle as I faintly feel him or at least I think it is him and it feels close for as much as I can feel …. him."
Professor McGonagall nods and says "I understand. Hermione, the moment you feel Harry is getting away from Hogwarts I want you to immediately come to me no matter what the time is or even if I teach a class or you are in class. I hope it will not come to that, especially with the Dementors at the border of Hogwarts."
"I know you want to find him, Hermione, but I think you should rest after today. Not only did you try to find him after the attack, but as you haven't been able to I think you need to rest and that Harry will come out sooner rather than later. I am sure of it. I think you can better return to the Common Room for the chance he returns there today, but I wouldn't stay up too late as he may not return today."
Hermione wants to refuse but she is tired and is worried about Harry. She decides to trust Professor McGonagall as she doesn't know what Harry wants. She feels lost without Harry and as she can't find him she has no other idea than to trust Professor McGonagall otherwise she will probably try to find Harry until she collapses because she will be dead tired and she is almost certain Harry doesn't want her to hurt herself and collapse.
Professor McGonagall is happy Hermione seems to accept that even though she seems worried. Normally, Professor McGonagall would make sure to find Harry or at least support Hermione to find Harry but not this time. She doesn't as she needs to let Sirius and Andromeda know that Harry is missing but still in Hogwarts.
Also, she wants them to come here as she can as Deputy Headmistress without the Headmaster needing to accept. She can't let them stay for very long as the moment Dumbledore finds out he can remove them and revoke her permission to allow people. She thinks that one night should be enough to find Harry especially because of Sirius's Animagus form as Padfoot has a heightened smell.
She hopes however that Remus hasn't recovered from the full moon two nights ago. She knows that the first few nights after the full moon when the moon still looks full but isn't is very hard for Werewolves. She knows it is not enough to hurt the Werewolves or make them very ill but she hopes it will prevent Remus from smelling Sirius because of his Werewolf side. As a Werewolf even outside of his Werewolf form, he has the benefit of canines like heightened smell and very good hearing as a perfect example but also the speed, endurance and agility of canines, especially wolves. However, the Wolfsbane potion may prevent Remus from also feeling the effect of the moon looking full but isn't.
As soon as Hermione and Ginny left the room she was already at her fireplace reaching for the floo powder. She had a letter from Andi delivered by Hedwig in her office that in an emergency they can floo call them with the address The Raven Refuge.
She immediately does.
3rd September 1993, Living Room, Tonkses House
Andi and Sirius are in the kitchen when they hear the floo. Andi immediately walks out with her hand already on her wand. She removes her hand when she sees Professor McGonagall's face in the floo.
Professor McGonagall says "Madam Tonks, I hope Sirius is close. I think you need to hear this."
Andi nods and calls for Sirius. Sirius has stayed in the kitchen if someone who doesn't know he is here sees him and lets the DMLE know.
As soon as Sirius enters Professor McGonagall tells them what has happened and that Hermione knows about the marriage contract between Susan and Harry. Also, she and Madam Pomfrey explained things to Susan, Hermione and Daphne about the bond which also explains that Harry is still in Hogwarts but doesn't know where.
Sirius immediately wants to go to Hogwarts to find Harry to see if he is really alright. First, he tries to call for Dobby but he doesn't come.
Professor McGonagall understands Sirius's eagerness but says that they have to wait until curfew for most of the students as Sirius cannot be himself and that if they see a Grimm walking through Hogwarts it will be known within a matter of minutes if it is before curfew. Professor McGonagall knows the patrol routes of all the Prefects, the head boy Percy Weasley and the head girl Penelope Clearwater. She will make sure that Sirius will know where to avoid.
Ideally, Sirius wouldn't come but Professor McGonagall knows that it will not happen. Sirius will come even if she doesn't want him to come and try to find Harry. Also, his dog's nose and hearing will be of great value in an almost silent Hogwarts. Reluctantly Sirius agrees with Professor McGonagall's decision after Andi reminds Sirius that Harry is his biggest concern and this case means he doesn't do something stupid and get caught.
3rd September 1993, Professor McGonagall's office, Hogwarts
When it is finally curfew Sirius almost runs out of the floo already turning into Padfoot along the way. He already tries to get the door open in his dog form. When he is about to manage Andi also comes through the floo casts a stinging hex to stop him and tells him to stay here until Professor McGonagall tells them anything they may need to know.
Professor McGonagall hasn't told them anything about his scars as Sirius would do something stupid although she couldn't blame him if he did. Although Professor McGonagall wonders if it will be the Dursleys or Dumbledore he will go after. She wants to find him first and wants Harry to show them as if Harry shows them he can be the only one who can contain Sirius. Professor McGonagall isn't sure if even Amelia can.
Professor McGonagall tells them that they should stay on the top floors as the Prefects are on patrol duty and the Headboy who is on duty today are from the Fourth floor until the ground floor with Filch moving between them and Professor Snape is patrolling the dungeon. Professor Flitwick does the fifth floor and Professor McGonagall would patrol the sixth floor as the schedule said she should.
Fortunately, it will make looking for Harry a bit easier if he is on the top two floors or in a tower. All the towers are connected not higher than the sixth floor (meaning lower floors also connect the towers but the seventh floor does not). The seventh floor only connects the North Tower to Gryffindor Tower.
They soon leave her office on the fifth floor. As Sirius can cover a great distance as Padfoot and has a bigger chance of smelling Harry (and the rat) when he is alone Andi stays with Professor McGonagall as they start to look at the sixth floor while Padfoot goes to the Seventh Floor and start to search there. Sirius wants to go to the Gryffindor Common Room, but with all his willpower resists that as he is almost sure he will smell the rat and Harry is more important right now…. or actually he always was.
He starts to smell and suddenly, in front of a blank wall which is very rare inside Hogwarts as most of the walls have paintings, Harry's smell is there and compared to other smells it is quite fresh and he is the only one that starts at the blank wall. He starts to follow the smell. Before he turns the corner he smells that also Athena and Hedwig are with Harry although he already knows that from Professor McGonagall who told him and Andi. Sirius thinks she didn't tell them something but that can wait as he first needs to find Harry.
It takes a little under 15 minutes when Sirius is sure that Harry is close by. He needed to stop a few times as sometimes Harry smelled when in multiple different ways. It took him a little time to find the most fresh one. As he is still recovering he has a little more trouble picking the right trail than before Azkaban.
3rd September 1993, Astronomy Tower, Hogwarts
If Padfoot could smile he would as he is sure Harry is a the top of the Astronomy Tower. He knows it was one of James and Lily's special places and not just as a make-out spot which it is for all of Hogwarts unless one of them has access to the Prefect bathroom or has a private room like the Headboy or Headgirl although most still prefer the Astronomy Tower because of the incredible view.
However, for James and Lily, it was a special place. Sirius doesn't know why as that is the only thing James was secret about although he admits he was there a lot with Lily when they were a couple. James threatened to curse Sirius as Sirius implied they make out there and more which surprised Sirius and James had never done that before. Sirius was smart enough to not imply they did more and only make out a little bit which even James couldn't lie as that did happen a little bit.
For most of the relationship besides their real love, James keeps a secret but Sirius can understand as he imagines he would not tell everything if he had a relationship with his Amy what he hopes will happen the moment he is found innocent, he just needs the rat. Fortunately, just smelling Harry's scent makes him realize why is here again.
Padfoot walks up the stairs as silently as he can. When he reaches the top of the Astronomy Tower he immediately sees Harry sitting at the edge leaning on the rail that prevents people from falling down. Harry seems to enjoy the view of the full moon and the surroundings of Hogwarts. Sirius is happy he found Harry and that he doesn't feel any Dementor being close as that would be dangerous for Harry and for him. He would attack the Dementor as Padfoot if that was needed to protect Harry although he may die himself.
The appearing full moon isn't full. Sirius doesn't know if it would still affect Remus and if it doesn't he hopes that Remus is still recovering from the full moon just enough that Remus would not smell he is here or would recognize he has been here. Maybe he needs to trust Remus that if he reveals himself Remus will hear him out just like Amy did. Maybe he should ask Amy to be present, maybe that would remove any doubt that he is innocent. He is still ashamed he wonders if Remus was really loyal or not during the war against Voldemort. When he thinks about it he is ashamed but decides that his escape made a chance to make things right but first Harry.
He walks slowly so as to not scare Harry but after barely a few steps he hears Harry saying "Hello, Sirius."
Sirius looks around and when he is sure there isn't anyone else he becomes his own again as he has been Padfoot this whole time.
Sirius asks "Pup, how did you know I was here? I am sure I was quiet."
Harry says emotionless "Hedwig saw you enter and let me know seconds before Athena also let me know. They didn't do anything as they know you aren't a threat or at least not at this time."
Sirius takes a few steps and asks "WHAT ARE YOU SAYING, HARRY? PUP, I WILL NEVER HURT YOU KNOWINGLY. I know I was wrong all those years ago but losing your parents believing you will be safe until I got the traitor is why I went after him. I know I should have been there for you and for that, I am very sorry. I know you never forget just like your mother and father but I hope you can eventually forgive me just like your father and mother did when I did something I shouldn't have done. I must admit I am not sure if they would forgive me for this mistake."
Harry just keeps sitting and says emotionless "Just leave, Sirius."
Sirius is surprised that Harry would say that.
Sirius says "Pup, I was worried about you. I came here to find you and hope you were safe. I am so happy you are."
Sirius again takes a step forward. Harry again says almost emotionless "Leave Sirius."
Sirius hears that Harry is close to crying or sobbing.
Sirius takes a few more steps and notices that Harry is shaken but not from the cold. He asks "Harry, if something is wrong just talk to me."
Harry without looking back breaks and says where you clearly hear he is crying "Just leave me alone, Sirius, everyone else will or something will happen to them what I don't want."
Sirius doesn't know what he means but knows something bad must have happened. Sirius decided to do the one thing when Harry was a baby always worked. Sirius turns into Padfoot and walks towards him before he pushes his face to Harry's and whines before licking his face.
As expected Harry gives a watery smile before he holds onto Padfoot and starts crying. Padfoot just lies beside Harry to make sure Harry lets everything out and he is here for Harry to hold onto what Harry does. Padfoot it was just like in Harry's youth when he babysit Harry without Lily or James present. It wasn't often but often enough for Sirius to know Padfoot always helped Harry when he was crying or sobbing.
It wasn't long before Harry managed to stop crying and just returned to enjoying the view. Padfoot licked his face again which made Harry have a little laugh. Harry seems still a bit upset and depressed but the laugh was at least real although not even close to his normal laugh.
They stayed like this for a little bit until they heard light footsteps walking up the stairs. Both know it is too light to be Filch and too heavy to be Mrs. Norris. It sounds like a younger student, however, it looks like this student doesn't wear shoes or boots.
It does take barely a minute before the student appears. It is a girl that Harry doesn't know. She is apparently a Ravenclaw and has blond hair almost the same blond as Daphne but still somehow different. Harry and Padfoot see that the girl doesn't wear shoes or boots. She only wears socks which are in Ravenclaw colour which is part of her school uniform she also wears. The socks are mostly white or black the only colour of your socks (or stockings) you can have is the colour of your house like the tie.
Padfoot whines as she looks just like Pandora as that is his first thought of seeing the girl he wonders if this is her daughter.
The girl says "The Nargles didn't tell me anyone would be here. Hello Harry Potter and Sirius Black. Or should I say Heir Potter and Lord Black?"
Harry asks a bit afraid of how she knows "What do you mean Sirius Black, this is Padfoot."
The girl cocked her head to the side and asks innocently but also like everyone knows "That is Sirius Black in his Animagus form isn't he?"
Harry looks at Padfoot and Padfoot looks back. Harry asks "I don't think ….. who are you?"
The girl gives a small smile and says "My name is Luna Lovegood. I am sorry if you didn't know that about Lord Black."
Padfoot immediately grabs Harry's arms with his paws as hard as he can without hurting Harry. Harry looks and Padfoot nods. One moment later Padfoot is gone and Sirius stands. During the transformation, Sirius pulls Harry up.
Harry immediately looks at Luna. He expected her to be shocked and scared for her life. Harry is surprised Luna isn't and just has a serene smile.
Sirius says "You are indeed correct, Miss Lovegood. I am Lord Sirius Orion Black and, yes, Heir Potter knew that before you told him. I think you understand Heir Potter lied to protect me as I am being hunted by the Ministry and the Dementors. I am sorry that the daft Minister placed Dementors at the border of Hogwarts and even though Dumbledore probably forbid them from entering the Hogwarts grounds I am sure the Dementors will cross the border and onto the grounds many times before this year is over."
Luna said nothing. Sirius asks "Miss Lovegood, may I ask why you are not wearing any shoes? I know that the castle especially at night is pretty cold for feet even if you are wearing socks."
Luna says "The Nargles stole them and I was following a couple before I lost them hoping they could lead me to my shoes and boots."
Luna shivered from the cold when a big gust of wind went through the top of the Astronomy Tower making it clear winter if fast approaching and that they were far up north.
Harry has still the boots he wore for Care of Magical Creatures. Before he even knew he had done it he pulled off his boots and gave them to Luna.
She looks surprised and says "I cannot wear them. They are too big for one."
Harry says "They should refit the moment you put your feet in. You can have them or at least until you have your shoes and boots back."
Harry gives a big smile when Luna grabs his boots and puts them on. Luna looks at Harry and she can feel herself blushing which never happened before. Even in her youth when she was with her best friend, whom she lost, she never blushed even though all the time it was about having a relationship with Harry. Sometimes they even pretended to share Harry and the only thing both felt was happiness for themselves and each other. Other times one of them pretended to be Harry to marry the other although she pretended to be Harry more than the other girl did but still both pretended.
Luna feels that the boots must have resizing charm as the boots aren't too large and they fit just right, not to mention they are very warm. While Harry keeps his smile up inside he knows what losing them means despite something called Nargles. He is almost completely sure that someone stole it from her and that is bullying which he will not allow.
As long as he is under the potion he will not call people out of it but he has someone who can get them back. He knows the elf for the job. As soon as he can he will call for Dobby.
Sirius gently nudges Harry forward and whispers do what Andi told you to do.
Harry decides to trust Sirius and says "Miss Lovegood, it is a pleasure to meet you. I am Heir Harry James Potter from the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter."
Luna says "I am Heiress Luna Pandora Lovegood of the Ancient House of Lovegood. You can call me Luna if you prefer. I hope I didn't inconvenience you by accepting your boots as you don't have boots or shoes with you, Heir Potter."
Harry smiles with makes Luna blush if she didn't use her Heiress persona which she hates to use but her mother taught her enough to fool those purebloods. Luna knows her mother taught her as she also didn't like the purebloods even though she was also one. She doesn't like the dark purebloods and sometimes you need to learn to be like them (to a far lesser extent) to be able to do things in the magical world.
Harry says gently "Don't worry about it, Luna. You are of course allowed to call me Harry."
The moment Harry allows her to call him Harry, Harry and Sirius see Luna have a serene smile again like she looked when Harry and Sirius saw her when they entered the top floor. Harry doesn't know why but he feels some kind of pull to her although it is only small and isn't sure if it is the same pull as he has to Susan, Hermione, Daphne and in a lesser way Ginny. Harry tries to feel the push and does feel it is close to that feeling he has for the others. He certainly cares for Luna although he just met her.
He also feels that while it isn't the same as the feeling for the others there is a big chance that the feeling will increase and will feel like he feels for the other girls. Inward Harry groans as he doesn't what he feels for the others besides that he certainly cares about them. Harry wonders if he feels for all besides Luna the same or not as Susan is his wife and the others are not nor will they ever be. He is certain none of them want to have a relationship with him that Susan does is a bloody miracle that will never happen twice.
Luna walks towards the edge and sits down looking at the moon. Harry shrugs and takes his place again which is so close to Luna that he almost touches her. He could have sat further away but Athena and Hedwig didn't move from the place from where he sat before.
Sirius turns back to Padfoot and lies back next to Harry. Harry doesn't know what to do with Luna as he doesn't know her at all. He could talk to her but she seemed to really like the view with a serene smile and decided not to interrupt.
3rd September 1993, the sixth floor, Hogwarts
Meanwhile, Professor McGonagall and Andi are searching for Harry on the sixth floor hoping he doesn't go to a lower floor. They say nothing for a few minutes.
After a few minutes when Professor McGonagall is almost completely sure they are out of Sirius's (enhanced) hearing range she says "Madam Tonks, I am afraid I need to tell you something that I didn't want Sirius to know at this moment. I will also give you a bit more details. One of the things that happened is one of the reasons which is the reason Harry is missing but also why I am completely sure he is in Hogwarts. As you mentioned Harry is very guarded about his relatives and I now know why. I am ashamed that I didn't put up a harder fight with Dumbledore when he placed Harry with the Dursleys."
Andi says "You can call me Andromeda or Andi whatever you prefer."
Professor McGonagall says "Andromeda it is. The same goes for me you can call me Minerva."
Andi nods and says "That is fine, Minerva. Now the more important part what do you mean?"
Professor McGonagall doesn't want to say this but she offered to tell her. Also, Andromeda is Harry's magical guardian she has the right to know everything even the things she didn't tell before. She wonders if Harry wants Andromeda to know, probably not but it is in his best interest that she does know. She decided to tell the whole story again with everything she hadn't told Andi and Sirius before.
Professor McGonagall says "Today Harry had his first class of Care of Magical Creatures and Hagrid had a good class planned as I understand it. It was maybe a bit too advanced for Third years but not that much. I know the previous teacher waited until the second term of the fourth year but that was his decision. Anyway, the class was about Hippogriffs and I think you know we have a herd here at Hogwarts."
Andi nods as she knows. She has also followed that class although she doesn't remember who her teacher was and when she learned about Hippogriffs. However, she does still know what she was taught.
Professor McGonagall sees that Andi doesn't say anything and decides to continue.
"Harry was somehow being the first to approach the alpha from the herd. The Hippogriffs is named, Buckbeak. He did marvellously if I must believe what Hagrid told me. He is probably biased but on the other hand, I have no reason to believe otherwise especially when he told me how Harry got hurt."
"Before you ask yes it was Buckbeak but it wasn't Buckbeak's fault. Buckbeak acted like a Hippogriff would in this situation. Malfoy insulted Buckbeak and Buckbeak attacked him. Apparently, Malfoy's goons as they are called by many, Crabbe and Goyle pulled Malfoy away after one of the talons hit Malfoy. Buckbeak was advancing on them and was already wanting to attack. He started the attack and at that moment Crabbe and Goyle pushed Miss Bones and Miss Greengrass towards Buckbeak to make Buckbeak attack them and save themselves and Malfoy."
"Harry saw that happening and immediately went in front of the girls to protect them. As Buckbeak couldn't stop the attack he hit Harry with both of his talons. The first one on Harry's back and the second one on Harry's front. Buckbeak didn't attack again but the wounds were very deep. I do not know all extent of his wounds but you can ask Poppy before you leave."
"However, that is not the reason he is missing. Poppy, gave him potions to keep him asleep as he was magically drained and needed his rest although he was also asleep on his own. Poppy was certain he would stay asleep but as we removed his shirt to have Poppy examine his wounds he woke up which according to Poppy would be impossible."
Andi says "I will ask Madam Pomfrey, however, this does not explain Harry for being missing and how do you know he is still in Hogwarts?"
Professor McGonagall knows she needs to say what she saw on Harry's body, but she blames herself and Dumbledore for the torture Harry went through especially when he was a young child because quite a couple of scars looking years old. She is afraid to see Harry's back as she is certain two scars that looked very large went to his back.
Professor McGonagall decided to tell Andi in the order she asked. First, it will be bad news and the second will be good news hopefully to at least prevent Andi and Sirius for that matter from killing the Dursleys.
Professor McGonagall looks around to make sure nobody is around and that none of the portraits is awake, able to listen in and where is as little as possible. When she is sure it is safe Professor McGonagall says "I will not beat around the bush Harry was beaten if not tortured from a young age. When Poppy and I removed his shirt to take a close look at the wounds we saw many scars. Most of them look old while also quite a couple from the previous years and some were probably less than a year old if not even closer to the present."
"As I said he woke up. He should be magically drained and maybe he was but he called for Athena. Athena was around Miss Granger but dropped to the ground and fire appeared around her body that looked like it consumed her. Fire appeared around Harry's right arm and Athena was suddenly there. Only a few seconds later a large white flame appeared slightly behind Harry and Hedwig. She landed on his left shoulder. It looked like Harry was sure they were with him when he called for Dobby. I didn't know who or what Dobby was but when he appeared it was clear it was a house-elf. He told Dobby to take him to someplace where no one could find him. Dobby popped him out."
Andi becomes mad at the Dursleys, Professor McGonagall and Dumbledore. Professor McGonagall sees her anger that overcomes Andi's Slytherin teachings or not showing emotions.
Andi says "Dobby" but as she expected Dobby doesn't appear.
Professor McGonagall looks to the ground and says "Andi, I understand you will be mad at me I am too but I am also ashamed of myself. I knew Harry's relatives were the worst kind of muggle I had seen but I also knew that Lily and her sister hated each other. Not from the start but during Hogwarts and after they grew apart eventually hating each other or at least Lily's sister hated Lily. Lily was not happy with her sister but I am not sure if she hated her sister."
"I should have refused harder when Dumbledore placed Harry at their doorstep with a letter. I should have checked on him at least during the Holidays. I should have done more. I should believe myself that Sirius wouldn't betray James, Lily and Harry. I am so ashamed of myself."
Andi sees and hears the truth, no matter, how much she didn't like Professor McGonagall's actions she feels the responsibility she had and now she is trying to make up for it. She already did as she immediately let her and Sirius know when Harry was missing.
Andi says "Minerva, I cannot say I am not mad at you, but I am furious with Dumbledore and those damn muggles. You said you wouldn't follow Dumbledore blindly anymore and I think you showed it by letting me and in addition the mutt know immediately when something happened just like the attack from the Dementors and now this."
Professor McGonagall gives a small smile as Andi believes she is trying to better herself.
As Andi sees that Professor McGonagall is feeling less guilty she asks "Alright, now that we know why he went missing how do you know he is still in Hogwarts?"
Professor McGonagall's smile widens as she starts talking "I think you will be surprised and for Harry, it is wonderful if Miss Granger can accept it despite her muggle upbringing. If she accepts it especially if Miss Granger decides to be a part of it."
Andi is not happy Professor McGonagall doesn't answer her question. While she may start to see Professor McGonagall wanting to do better and already did do better doesn't mean she can say something that will not answer her question.
Professor McGonagall says "Sorry, well Miss Granger told me."
Andi asks "Does she know where he is? He shouldn't be missing then."
Professor McGonagall shakes her head and says "No, she doesn't know."
Andi asks "Then how does she know?"
Professor McGonagall smiles even wider if she can and says "Because she felt his magic and used it to find Harry. She couldn't find him but he felt close."
Andi demands "Tell me everything."
Professor McGonagall tells Andi what happened in the Hospital wing including Susan revealing the marriage contract to Hermione and Daphne.
Professor McGonagall says "I asked Miss Granger to tell me the moment it feels like Harry left Hogwarts. Miss Granger hasn't come to me and I wouldn't be surprised if she is still awake making sure Harry won't leave Hogwarts without her noticing."
Professor McGonagall has no idea how right she was.
3rd September 1993, Gryffindor Tower, Hogwarts
Hermione has been worrying the entire day after Harry left with Dobby or at least that is what he called the elf. Sure she heard about Dobby but this elf looked much better than the Dobby Harry spoke about. Also, this Dobby doesn't wear that dirty pillowcase for the few seconds with watery eyes she could see. Dobby wears almost servant-like clothes. Also, the clothes Dobby wear aren't dirty at all. Dobby wears what she would call some kind of muggle butler clothes but somehow more elf-like if that makes sense. She is also almost sure that Dobby smiled when Harry called for him.
Hermione isn't sure what to think of it, but she immediately knows she doesn't care at this time Harry Is much more important. Also, Harry wouldn't treat house-elves badly and certainly not as the Malfoy's. She forgets about Dobby right that second as Harry is still the most important. She has been trying to feel his magic inside her and try to find him. She tried to do that most of the afternoon and after dinner, she was very tired, but her willpower was the only thing that kept her going and trying to feel his magic. She knows searching for Harry at this point is useless but she can still feel him close and that is enough for now as that means he is still in Hogwarts.
She has felt him coming closer. When she felt him the closest since his disappearance she was in front of the boy's dormitory for third years where Harry should sleep within seconds ready to burst in to see Harry again when she felt him moving away. She ran down to the Common Room but he wasn't there. It was after curfew but as it was Friday night some fifth year, almost all the sixth year and all the seventh years were still in the common room. She is sure Harry isn't here or even was here as the others would have seen him. Even if he was under his invisibility cloak some would have noticed the portrait opening without someone being there or he may have knocked into someone or something over.
It seems the twins Fred and George see her. She sees that they are talking with Lee Jordan. She asks if they have seen Harry and all three shake their heads. She walks back up the stairs to go to the left and the girl's dormitories she looks back to make sure she doesn't see something out of the ordinary as far as witches and wizards in Hogwarts are ordinary. The last thing she sees is Angelina and Alicia looking with narrow eyes at the Twins and Lee Jordan. She thinks that Angelina and Alicia look as if they suspect the twins and Lee Jordan to be planning something. She wonders if she has the same look when Harry is doing something, especially something he wouldn't do. The twins and Lee Jordan are probably planning a prank and that is why Angelina and Alicia are glaring at them.
When Hermione is back in her own dormitory and sees the others are asleep. She lies down on her bed but not to sleep. She doesn't want to sleep because of Harry and also what Professor McGonagall and Susan told her. She will never leave Harry, but why did she tell her biggest fear of not being with Harry?
Does she really love Harry? That answer is yes but does his magic affect her real feelings? Are the feelings of loving Harry even her own feelings? She hopes it is but she knows that even before she felt any of his magic she already liked Harry a lot. Sure jumping on a troll and saving her wouldn't hurt him at least not as much as he was hurt. She knew after a few days that she didn't like Harry because of the Troll but liked the real him so much she even tolerated Ronald Weasley.
While she has many more questions one question is the most important. That question is 'While she be able to accept being one of Harry's wives and not the only one?' she wonders in her mind if her parents would be able to accept that.
The only things that are in her mind are the words 'Yes' and 'If they see me happy I think my parents will accept that and if they don't that is their problem.'
After the second thought, she almost shouts as she cares a lot about her parents and their feelings. Normally she would never do something her parents would have trouble accepting but why not know? It is because of Harry, because of what Professor McGonagall and Susan said or a combination?
She doesn't know but she knows she loves Harry and if Susan accepts her to be with Harry and Harry wants her to be his Lady Potter or even just a girlfriend at this time she will not hesitate to accept. Maybe she should just do so as there is a big chance she can protect Harry from bad girls or at least give her opinion and hope Harry will follow her advice or at least be very cautious. Hermione knows on the other hand she doesn't know many girls. The only girls she will accept if she has the choice will be Susan, of course, Daphne, Ginny, Padma, probably her sister Parvati too and Katie.
There are a few others she considers like Tracey or Sue Li but she isn't sure if they are interested in Harry while she is sure the others are at least a little, maybe not even as romantic interest but as friends they surely are. Although if you look at friends Tracey already is but does she want more?
Hermione hates not knowing the answer. Fortunately, for her, she knows the answer to the most important question, she wants to be with Harry and never leave him even if it is just as a friend although she hopes much more. She hopes that both Susan and Daphne speak the truth although she highly doubts that they spoke the truth. Harry's actions seem to support them though or at least it looks like that.
Eventually, her mind stops working and her willpower is depleted which causes her to fall asleep. She is lucky if it is Saturday or she would at least miss all her morning classes.
3rd September 1993, Hogwarts
Professor McGonagall and Andi searched the remaining sixth floor in silence. Although they were worried about Harry they had a small smile on their face. In the end, they haven't found him but as Sirius hasn't returned and Professor McGonagall wasn't summoned by Dumbledore, the most likely situation was that Sirius found Harry.
Andi seems to have the same idea and says "We can better search for the mutt on the seventh floor."
Professor McGonagall nods. They walk the closest to the seventh floor. They are near the Astronomy Tower. Within 10 minutes they are in the Astronomy Tower. They decide to get to the top of the tower.
3rd September 1993, Astronomy Tower, Hogwarts
There they find Harry, Luna, Padfoot, Hedwig and Athena. They cannot see Harry's face but they can see Harry is looking at the moon and is probably calm.
Professor McGonagall sees the girl and wonders who it is. Also can't suppress a smile as the girl sits close to Harry and wonders how Harry can have bad luck with magic but the best luck with the opposite gender especially as the girl seems to lean into Harry. Although Harry tries to get away Padfoot blocks his path so it does work. It almost looks like Padfoot pushes Harry into the girl.
The moment the girl fully leans into Harry Professor McGonagall sees that Harry looks paralysed although it is only a few seconds before he relaxes. Professor McGonagall and Andi look at each other before the smile gets even wider as it looks like a happy time for Harry and almost as a family although they both know Harry misses a few wives by his side.
They hear hooting and see that Hedwig has returned as they didn't see Hedwig when they arrived. They expect Athena to be somewhere but they don't see her.
Hedwig hoots something and they hear Harry say "Oh bloody hell."
Without looking he says "I am sorry Professor McGonagall and Andi."
Andi asks "Dear, what for?"
Harry uses all his willpower to not show how weak he is and cry.
He says "For being weak. For not being strong enough to protect myself."
Within a second he is hugged by three pairs of arms and a dog is nudging his side.
Harry can't understand why would they hug him. He was weak, weak enough to protect himself, weak enough to resist and good for nothing. Eventually, he learned what he should never do or ask for. They broke him there is no other word for it. Now Susan, Hermione and Daphne know too they will surely think him of being weak and useless. He knows he is weak, useless, worthless and good for nothing just like his relatives always said he was.
He looks away to avoid looking into their eyes. Suddenly he feels one pair of arms letting him go while another hand goes for his face and gently demands his face to look at the owner of the hand. The owner is Andi and she says "Harry, you are not weak. You withstand it without becoming a bitter man. You became a caring and wonderful man who says more about yourself and that you are stronger than anything else. Of course, being the wonderful son of James and Lily does help, but you are not weak Harry."
" We don't think that you are all four of us…."
Hedwig starts to hoot loudly.
Andi says "Sorry, I mean all six of us don't think you are. You are strong not only with your magic which is very strong but also mentally as there would be many wizards and witches even adult wizards and witches who would have broken years ago."
Harry starts to shed tears and shouts "But I am broken. I am also weak, useless, worthless and good for nothing. Now you, Professor McGonagall, Sirius and Madam Pomfrey know it. Hermione, Susan and Daphne know it now too."
Andi's hearts almost break as she sees in Harry's water eyes that he believes that. She also sees in the corner of her eye that Athena was around Harry's arm under his clothes and that is why she didn't see Athena before.
"Now all of you will leave me," Harry says. In only a few seconds he really starts to cry.
Andi pulls Harry towards him so she can hug him. Andi didn't expect the girl to hug him in the first place but certainly not that she held on. Now Harry is hugged by Andi between her breasts with the girl hugging his side. Andi decide to move her arm a bit to not be uncomfortable for her, Harry and the girl. Mostly to not push the girl away. Padfoot was pushing his head against Harry's hip from the other side.
Andi just looks at Professor McGonagall. She understands and immediately leaves.
Within a few minutes, the comes back running with Madam Pomfrey. They are both out of breath as it is quite a distance between the Astronomy tower and the Hospital wing. Madam Pomfrey has a bag with her. Andi as a healer knows that all mediwitches and healers have a bag ready for the change they need to respond quickly. It seems despite being in Hogwarts Madam Pomfrey didn't forget that.
Madam Pomfrey opens the bag and pulls out a vial. Andi immediately recognizes it is a calming potion. Andi knows they need Harry to drink it before he goes back to the Hospital wing and hopefully make him show them his scars. She hopes that she will not become murderous as Sirius certainly will. Dora should know too soon as well or she will become just as murderous, if she accidentally sees it, just as Sirius if not more so.
It takes some time before she feels Harry slowly let go. She takes the vial offered by Madam Pomfrey. She says "Harry, I need you to drink this. It will help."
Without refusing Andi Harry drinks the vial completely empty. Andi knows it may take a while to be effective. Andi is surprised when it doesn't take long at all, but she can understand that Harry may already be a bit calm as this was probably very tiring for him especially as he shouldn't been able to wake up until tomorrow morning.
When Andi sees that Harry calmed down she looks at Padfoot to take Harry from her before she looks at the girl. She remembers Andi of someone but for the love of Merlin Andi can't remember who.
Andi asks "And Miss who may you would be?"
Luna looks up and says "I am Luna Pandora Lovegood, Regent Potter."
Andi keeps her shock behind her Slytherin mask before she asks "Miss Lovegood, what do you mean?"
Luna looks innocently as she asks "Doesn't Harry know? I am sorry if I shouldn't tell Harry."
Andi sighs and says "It is no problem, Miss Lovegood, Harry does know I am his magical guardian although those that know besides those here are my daughter and Amelia Bones. We want to keep it from being known at this moment. Can I trust you to not tell anyone else?"
Luna nods and says "Of course, Regent Potter. The Nargles tell me if it will become known too soon it will be a big problem."
Andi has no idea what Nargles are but as Luna knows more than she should Andi will not question Luna…. Or at least not at this time.
Madam Pomfrey says "We need to go back to the Hospital Wing and yes Mr. Potter you need to as I am sure Regent Potter would agree, would you not?"
Andi immediately nods before she looks at Harry. Harry doesn't seem happy she says "Harry, it is better if you do."
Harry doesn't want to agree but seeing that Andi is serious he gives a reluctant nod. Andi asks "Harry. Where are your boots? I see you are not wearing them and only your socks."
Harry doesn't say anything. As nobody does Padfoot comes out of his Aniamgus form and says "Pup, gave them to Miss Lovegood here as she didn't have any shoes on as apparently she lost them and were stolen by Nargles. When wind was blowing through here she was cold with only socks on so Harry was a real gentleman by offering her his boots until hers are found."
Sirius stares into Professor McGonagall's eyes. She knows why he does that. While the marauders were mostly pranks some were borderline bullying or bullying outright. She knows Sirius knows that bullies probably stole those shoes and boots from Luna.
Professor McGonagall waves her wand and almost one minute later one pair of shoes and one pair of boots appear.
Professor McGonagall asks "Are these your Miss Lovegood?"
Luna smiles and says "They are Professor McGonagall. I will find the other two pairs at a later time."
Professor McGonagall asks surprised "Other two pair?"
Luna nods and says "Yes, Professor McGonagall. I had another pair of shoes that are both shoes and boots for the fall and winter. And one pair that is for spring and summer when the weather becomes better."
Professor McGonagall says "I will deliver them to you when they are found."
Inward she thinks 'Filius needs to know this. He will be furious that one of his claws is being bullied by her fellow claws.'
Madam Pomfrey says "As Miss Lovegood seems to be alright can we get a move on? Miss Lovegood, we will bring you to the Ravenclaw Common Room before we return to the Hospital wing."
Luna says "I don't know if that is possible. The entrance is closed."
Professor McGonagall hides her surprise as she never knows if that is even possible. Sure, the portrait of the fat lady can refuse to open but as long as you give the right password she will open even if she doesn't want to.
Professor McGonagall says "As Professor Flitwick has probably already retired for the night Madam Pomfrey can you let her spend the night in the Hospital wing?"
Madam Pomfrey would normally never allow that but she sees that Professor McGonagall really wants her to. Also, she sees that Miss Lovegood seems to like being close to Harry as she still hasn't let go.
She says "I suppose once couldn't hurt. Miss Lovegood, I will allow it once as you don't seem to be hurt. The next time it happens just go to Professor Flitwick and if it isn't possible Professor McGonagall or if she isn't available you can always come to me. I was a Ravenclaw after all."
Luna nods almost happily.
Madam Pomfrey continues "Now first thing first. Miss Lovegood if could give Mr. Potter his boots back and you put on your own we can move towards the Hospital wing without anyone being too cold."
Reluctantly Luna let Harry go as she can't give his boots back and put her own on otherwise. Barely a minute later they leave the top of the astronomy tower. Hedwig doesn't want to leave Harry as she feels he will probably need her she has flown to his left shoulder with Athena with her head on his right shoulder.
Luna walks very close to Harry and it almost looks like they are together or at least very familiar with each other if not brother and sister although all the adults know that Luna may desire more. They all notice that during their walk Luna glances at Harry a lot and refuses to be more than a few small steps away from Harry. Also, when Harry hurries up or slows down she does the same. It is almost like she follows him despite walking beside him. Harry doesn't seem to notice.
Let's end here for now. This one was long in the making with many interrupts on my side and a little writer's block. In the next chapter, we see Harry in the hospital wing and Daphne wants to talk to Susan. More, if the words allow it.
Heads up in the coming week(s) many of the older chapters will be uploaded again to fix mostly grammatical errors and probably a few errors in my story like a different name or different item things like that or formulate some sentences differently. The story will not change (much).
Please read and review. PMs are appreciated by both me (Coco29) and ANUBIS the god king.