I DON'T OWN HARRY POTTER OR ANY OF ITS ORIGINAL CHARACTERS, ONLY MY OCS AND THE SITUATIONS I PUT THEM IN. WARNING: There will be cussing, lemons, and violence. (Also, someone said I should put: please don't steal. Didn't think I needed to, but ok. Please don't steal my stories.)
Some characters may seem OOC at some points at different times in the story, but I hope I explain that in the story when the time comes. Some things happen pretty fast at first (like certain relationships or legal stuff), but again I try to explain it. Some people may go back and forth at times, but I'll explain it! You get the idea. Spelling and grammar errors, I recheck constantly, so sorry if some slip by. Some character bashing in the beginning and for a little while, but that doesn't mean it will last the whole story. I don't hate certain characters though it may seem like that at times. THIS IS A WARNING. Though I will put a warning at the beginning needed. I do not condone all of these things, but my mind can be really fucked up, I apologize now. So, I am mixing both movie and book but I'm mainly following the movie. Though I will try to make a good blend between the two. Big thank you to everyone who reviewed, followed, and/or favorited. You guys rock! A/N: Hey everyone, I'll be posting the names and answering questions of reviewers in the beginning of part two. I don't know about you guys, but school and life are just kicking my ass. Thank you for all of your patient and great reviews. Like always, grammar will be double checked later on. Anyway, hope you enjoy.
Chapter 7: Big Surprises. (Part 1)
Vivian stretched walking up with a few pops in her back. Her body, like Harry's, was still healing itself after the abuse they had suffered.
She couldn't wait till there was a chance to sneak off and begin training. Her bones felt like they were growing faster than her skin. It was uncomfortable to say the least. 'Perhaps we can sneak something from Pomfrey's stash' she wondered.
'I don't want to brew my own-' she stopped as another thought abruptly hit her.
'It's potions today!' With that, Vivian jumped out of bed and went about getting ready with the excitement of a child on Christmas morning.
Daphne Greengrass muttered curses as she turned, trying to sleep still. Luckily, she was the only one to stir. Vivian playfully patting the pretty girl's blonde head getting another mumbled curse as Vivian chuckled and made her way down the stairs.
As she practically skipped down and through the common room, she couldn't help but think about how much fun it was going to be getting to spend time with her favorite professor again.
If she had any musical talent, she'd be singing like one of those Disney Princesses Hermione once showed her.
Vivian just couldn't wait to be face to face with Snape again. But this time…she was different. She was a powerful and confident.
Vivian knew that Harry and Neville were in the same spirits as she.
'We'll have to write the guys letting them know how the knobsnob is doing' she thought of her father and uncle fondly.
"Lupin" the voice of Draco Malfoy called out.
"If it isn't my favorite chew toy" she mumbled under her breath unable to wipe the smile from her face.
"Malfoy" she turned with a hint of a raised brow. Hands went to her hips as the robes parted slightly to show pants. Her short hair swayed briefly before the blunt, angled ends brought attention to her sharp features that were finally beginning to round out a little.
Thanks to nourishment potions and a big appetite, she was gaining much needed body weight.
Apparently, her overly skinny figure didn't put off the sharp faced blonde as he looked at her with a smug, favorable gaze.
"I was going to offer to escort you to breakfast" he said putting his arm out.
Vivian could see and tried to smother her amusement over Pansy fuming from the spot where she had been sitting. She had gotten up extra early in hopes of being the first thing her Drakeypoo saw!
'Ever since Potter's pet snake showed up, she's set out to ruin everything!' Pansy thought bitterly.
Vivian made her accent posher as she sniffed with exaggeration. "Sorry Blondie" she stated, "I can only be seen around the right sort".
With that, she met Ron who was casually leaning against the wall opposite the common room entry. She jumped into his warm, inviting embrace leaving a speechless Malfoy gapping in her wake.
The duo quickly made their way to join the others in the Great Hall.
"You know which class is after breakfast, don't you pet?" Ron looked down at his girlfriend with an easy grin on his handsome face.
"I do, why do you think I'm in such a good mood" she responded.
Ron feigned being hurt. "I thought that was from seeing me" he dramatically gasped with a hand clutching over his heart.
"Oh Ronald" Vivian raised her voice while touching his cheek. "Nope" she chirped going to make a run for it.
"Wha-? Cheeky" he called after, catching up and lifting Vivian to spin the laughing girl around.
"Weasley, Lupin!" the voice of Snape shouted as he stormed over to the pair. "Stop this nonsense. Ten points from Gryffindor. Ten points-" he cut himself off from taking points from his own house. A sour expression overtook him.
More sour than usual.
Just as he fully reached them, he caught Ron rolling his eyes with a sigh. Vivian, however, was positively beaming. The smile was so wide it was eerie.
"Now, both of-" this time he as cut off by Vivian.
"Black-Lupin" she said with happy primness.
"Excuse me" Snape's eye narrowed.
"My title. It's Lady Black-Lupin" she corrected as if he was slow.
His anger began to rise when Weasley opened his mouth.
"That's the proper ways to address her" he said doing a great impression of a pure blood elite as he looked down his nose at Snape.
A look the halfblooded professor was very acquainted with. "You insolent-" he went to spit, but once more he was interrupted. It looked as if a vein in his forehead was about to burst as he endeavored not to pull his wand on the two children. Obviously, they needed a lesson on respect.
"Since we have only spoken once, I'm sure it simply slipped your mind" Vivian pointed out how he excluded her from the usual head of house welcome speech. "All is forgiven. See you in class professor" she waved. Ron was dragged into the Great Hall.
Ron smirked giving a little finger wave at the furious man as they found seats with their friends at the Gryffindor table.
Snape only held in his temper at being treated in such a fashion due to the knowledge that soon he'd have Potter's group and the little half-breed in his class.
In his domain.
He was sure Weasley learned such an impudent manner from Potter. 'He's like Black was to Potter. Now they even have their own werewolf pet' he thought as the children's faces flashed onto people of his past.
'I wonder which will be their Pettigrew' he thought cruelly as he looked between Longbottom and Lovegood. It didn't occur to him that they too were like others who had fought, those who were close to both Lily and the Marauders. Friends, fighters of the past. Those no longer with them, in more than one way.
'Then Granger is…' he stopped. It seemed he was doing that a lot. This time it was due to his comparison of Granger and another brilliant, fierce muggleborn.
Shaking his head unnoticeably, Snape continued on with his hateful thoughts. 'Now they'll get a taste firsthand in why no one challenges me'.
Weasley's little wave made him grind his teeth as he stalked towards his seat.
"Who spiked his potion?" Harry asked seeing the look on Snape's face.
"I think he's got bubelings under his coat" was Luna's suggestion. "They're very aggressive you know. Remind me to get some unicorn snot and banshee hair to make sure we have a repellent" she advised.
"Whatever is happening, I'm sure we'll hear about it later" Neville shot a look at the too pleased Ron and Vivian.
"I'm surprised you noticed a change" Hermione really looked at the man. "He looks the same to me" she added.
"Well let's see if we can't put some gray hairs on that oily head" Harry suggested.
"I had an idea about him" Luna said before thinking, 'Let's discuss it after your class with him'.
For a moment only the clanking of silverware could be heard. The group ignored all the looks that were periodically aimed their way.
They talked and joked among themselves and table mates. Harry was counting down the minutes until lunch ended and classes for the days begun.
The time came and soon enough the six friends found themselves making the long walk to the dungeon. A reflection over the changed attitudes and emotions over the descent compared to the last time this journey was made, was shared amounts the whole group.
Neville remembered how afraid he had once been. How terrified Snape made him, belittled him.
Neville had greatly changed from his first walk down those dank, dark halls.
The change started before he even knew the man's full backstory. Before he had become one of Harry's lieutenants. Now, walking to face his former tormentor, Neville felt none of his young self's nerves or fear.
Then again, if any were to look at him, they'd have to question if the blank faced boy if he felt anything at all. A slightly unsettling sight on the boy who everyone was used to being shy, anxious but usually positive and very obvious to read.
If he were to be asked, Neville wasn't sure if he could feel anything anymore. Not much at least. He felt so empty before images of a long blonde haired and dazzling blue eyed goddess filled his head.
That definitely sparked emotion.
Vivian's expression was erratic, to put it mildly.
She continued to switch between glee and depressed anger. Her mind kept reminding her of Snape's cruelty. It had taken its toll when she was a scared, abused child. A werewolf child who was ashamed of herself and the horrors that were thrust upon her. It had taken a lot for her friends, Sirius, Tonks, and Remus to help her realize none of it was her fault.
Snape's cutting remarks certainly never helped. She was so fragile then. Vivian didn't think she would have been able to handle everything without her friends and family.
'I'm not that frightened little girl anymore' she told herself aggressively with a twitch of her straight nose and purple glossed lips. Striking green eyes narrowed with long lashes looming like dark shadows over her gaze.
'Now, I am the predator, and he is the prey. He will be the one to bend to my might!'
Ron's slightly muscled arm wound itself around her shoulder as he picked up her change of breathing.
He didn't say anything, just squeezed her into his side. Sure enough, her expression calmed falling into a relaxed state. Her shoulders eased as her body fell into a comfortable, normal posture. Soon she was a leaning into him.
Hermione was having to do something similar for a stoic Harry.
His earlier entertainment replaced by foreboding, swirling thoughts.
Snape… There was a complicated man through and through.
Because of that, opinions and viewpoints along with emotions became a mingled mess that felt impossible to unravel. Harry knew the man was technically good. Harry knew that.
However, certain actions didn't add up. Especially given the man's past coupled with the claims he made in his last few years alive. And Harry wasn't only thinking of the man's cruelty in the classroom during his spying.
It was the little things that Snape did that caused bigger, disastrous consequences. Like the night Sirius died.
Harry's eyes clenched, deep slow breathes escaping him. He didn't worry about seeing as he had complete trust in Hermione with guiding him.
Some passing students shivered. It felt like the hallway was even colder than usual. The Knights had to guess it was their Master's powers trying to react to the turmoil in his mind.
"We're here" Hermione's soft voice quietly rolled over him.
"Joy" was Ron's grunt.
"Hey Potter" Malfoy's still high voice rang out, sounding more nasally with the volume. Harry's eyes snapped open adjusting to the darkness of the dungeons lit only with a single torch.
"Weren't you pathetic enough with the bucktooth mudblood and poor Weasel?" Draco's insulted making the group's hackles rise. "You had to add the squib and a mad man's heir to your little collection?" He laughed as some Slytherins joined.
Others rolled their eyes or simply watched.
The other second year Gryffindors all looked ready to jump in and start a fight. Then again, with the two houses history which Malfoy and even the staff seemed to constantly stir, a fight was an everyday possibility.
"Would you like to see how proficient I am with my wand Malfoy?" Neville's dark, serious voice stopped all noise dead. No one could believe it.
"Did-? Did Longbottom just challenge Malfoy to a duel" came a surprised Theo Nott.
"A challenge?" Harry said as Neville simply ticked his chin up with a single sharp brow raise. "I don't think someone as low as Malfoy could really consider himself a challenge compared to Nev. What do you think Ron" he threw it to his best mate.
"I'd call it more of a slaughter" the ginger looked at the steaming blonde. Blue eyes calculating as the lazily observed the pointy faced Slytherin. " A merciful one at that" he added.
"You filthy blood traitor! When my father-" Malfoy began. He was interrupted by a secretly angry Vivian.
"Don't you have any real threats" Vivian offered unimpressed. "You shouldn't start something you aren't able to finish" a smile twitched the corner of her mouth. That sounded suspiciously a lot like a warning.
Or a threat.
He went to retort when Hermione broke in primly. The surrounding children tried to hide their disappointment.
They were excited to see someone from the famous Potter's group put Malfoy in his place. Really, they just wanted to see a fight. Even Crabbe and Goyle had been waiting with excitement.
"Not now everyone" she sniffed. "Too many witnesses" she added smartly.
This got a few chuckles from all around the second-year class.
They were assuming she was joking in order to break the tension while still getting one up on the blonde bully. Of course, Hermione Granger wouldn't really suggest violence. Despite the adventure rumors that had been spread last year, the bookworm would never suggest anyone break a rule!
Hermione wasn't joking.
"What is happening here" the voice of Snape made many students jolt in shock. "Causing problems already Potter" he accused making Draco along with Crabbe and Goyle smirk. Pansy actually snickered.
Harry didn't get mad or try to point out Draco's actions. He knew it wouldn't matter to the man. For now, Harry would have a little fun.
"Everyone has to have a hobby" he muttered just loud enough. "But of course, I'd never do anything like that…Professor" he added with a sweet smile. "That wouldn't be nice".
"Five points from Gryffindor for cheek" Snape told him smugly. "Maybe you will try to improve your attitude in the future" he said before becoming confused at the amused looks the group tried to hide.
"Oh, most definitely" Harry nodded before taking Hermione's hand and leading her into the room cutting off Snape's entrance.
Snape's mouth tightened with nostrils flaring. He went to sweep forward again when this time Ron and Vivian cut him off.
"Opps, 'xcuse us Professor" Vivian sent him a sugary smile.
The tall thin man had all but jumped a step back in an effort to not touch her.
With a low growl he went to push past the dunderhead couples. However, he was once more cut off. This time by a bored looking Longbottom.
Neville barely spared the man a look, sucking some air through his top teeth unimpressed.
As he felt Snape practically vibrating with anger, Harry had to think 'This should be one rememberable lesson'.
####SCENE BREAK####
Remus and Sirius in his Rectus disguise walked to Gringotts with purpose.
The men had gotten it into their heads that they could pick up the cup horcrux. Hermione had been kind enough to tell them about the enchantments surrounding all of the horcruxes with Luna. Though the little blonde had confused them on more than one occasion.
'Just think of it as us getting in the game. We'll have one in' Sirius had excitedly told Remus.
'I'd rather just think of it as helping them, instead of you and the children competing' he told a then pouting Sirius.
Remus still wasn't totally sure about the plan, but if these horcruxes were as dangerous as Vivian led him to believe then he was determined to save any of the children from facing such a thing.
Sirius had mentioned a game, but really the man didn't want his godson to be put in any more danger. He thought the kids had been through enough and it was time that someone else did some of the heavy lifting.
The two knew that Harry had spoken to one of the goblins, but in order for Sirius' plan to work he had to appear in person. Even if he didn't look like himself.
He was going to challenge both Bellatrix's and Narcissa's marriages, claiming them and their husbands to be associated with the murder of his younger brother. This would hopefully see the women officially stricken front the Black name while allowing Sirius to fully take over their vaults.
Not to mention the back lash it would give the Malfoys. Both financially and socially.
But those were all pluses as the real target was Helga Hufflepuff's cup.
Technically, he could have signed the ability over to Harry, but then someone could challenge it. The same with Remus.
Blood tests were involved, they were the only undisputed system. So, 'Rectus' knew that his blood would allow him to pass the test with flying colors.
Thankfully, the spell didn't identify specific individuals. It only proved if someone had close family relations to whoever they were claiming.
This would allow Rectus to be passed off as a first cousin. Remus was working out believable explanations for no one knowing of Rectus along with his sudden reappearance and relationship with the men and children.
While Remus was busy worrying himself sick, Rectus appeared as if he didn't have a care in the world. He strolled up the steps of the bank with his now taller stature.
He had teased Moony about the werewolf no longer being the tall, lean one as Sirius new appearance gave some extra height. Not that one would have ever accused him of being short.
He wasn't, only seemed that way at times next to Remus. Though if you based the two off of attitude alone then you'd think it was Sirius standing at six-five as he had an air of cool, easy confidence.
Like now as he walked up and strolled into the bank looking like some of the higher end clientele.
Soon enough the two men were looking for a teller. They were a bit on edge around the financially inclined race since Ron had told them of a goblin's betrayal during the hunt for the horcruxes.
The only problem was…neither of the men could remember the name.
Which goblin had betrayed Harry and the others?
So, right now every goblin was on their list. Everyone but Warwick at least. Harry had made a point of mentioning him repeatedly.
Sirius finally approached a teller, briefly reading the tag saying Griphook. "Name and business" the being looked up his sharp, long nose at the two. Quill went back to its holder as he waited.
"Lord Rectus Latronem. I'm here to challenge two marriages and seek claims on vaults and payments due on behalf of my cousin" Rectus said in a clear, crisp tone. That made Griphook's eyes take on a gleam of interest.
His quick mind began calculating how such an action could benefit him.
Griphook was the kind of goblin that gave others a bad name. Any steps his race took, he made some backwards. He was the embodiment of goblin stereotypes. Naturally, the idea of being on a big case and anything he could do to earn some 'extra' percentage, was always on his mind.
After all, it was rare that such a big request with such a wealthy client just fell at one's feet.
It was obvious that Rectus came from money, or he was a very good actor.
"And what cousin gave you this permission Lord Latronem" Griphook acquired neutrally.
"Sirius Black" came the unwavering answer.
Griphook's interest was now definitely peeked. "I see" he replied slowly. "Who is it you wish to penalize through this challenge?" Griphook had to wonder just which family would catch the fall out of this.
None that would take it lightly, he was sure.
Remus was watching the goblin closely with furrowed brows. He hadn't been trying to but, keen eyes caught onto the slight changes in the short man's stature.
He didn't think he liked what he was seeing. It was like his conscious and Moony were both trying to tell him something. A nagging whisper he couldn't quite make out.
Sirius was being as professional as possible. Now, he was glad that some of his father and mother's lordship lessons came in handy. He sent out a silent thank you to where he was sure they were resting, in hell.
He suppressed a snicker at that and focused on the task at hand. "Bellatrix Lestrange née Black and Narcissa Malfoy née Black" he said with a small mustache twitch.
Sirius had added Narcissa in there for two reasons. One, she was no longer the sweet if not high maintenance girl he once knew. Being married to Lucius had all but drained the compassion that once flowed through her veins.
She was now the persona that she pretended to be around their parents and the other adults. He was actually saddened by that, but he saw it happening in school. That part of Narcissa, the part that wanted to run away from home after Andromeda did. After Sirius ran away.
The Narcissa that would meet up in secret with him even after graduating from Hogwarts and marrying Lucius. Then, the meetings got fewer and fewer until he no longer saw his cousin.
He would mourn for that Narcissa. Another person to mourn for, even if this one was still walking around.
Sirius couldn't hold onto who she used to be. Voldemort had tainted her now, and she let him. The less said about her husband, the better.
Secondly, Sirius was a strategist, like Ron. He knew that this would definitely be leaked somehow. He was sure it would get to the Death Eaters and even the spirit Voldemort. Harry was still not physically in the place to catch him.
Yet.
If Sirius only went after Bellatrix, then it might clue the wrath into what they were doing. The thought of such a specter roaming around somewhere gave him chills.
Though he was doing and was willing to do anything in order to help Harry and the others in any way, shape, and form, Sirius had to admit he couldn't wait until Harry was about to handle finishing the bastard off.
If just relying on magic, he was sure that Harry could do it. The thought of what any of those kids could probably do blew his mind. However, as he heard, repeatedly, from Hermione, none of them were physically ready.
According to her the magic would literally make them blow up taking miles and miles worth of possible innocents with them. Apparently, even physical training couldn't totally help. Sometimes, the body had to properly age in order for things to grow correctly.
Though, she had 'assured' that they had a chance to still be able to do amazing feats of magic after.
The most powerful witches and wizards around, just translucent and ghost like.
None of them had been too keen on the idea, though Luna seemed a little too interested. Remus and Sirius were not. They worried for the kids, then themselves when Harry said he'd 'train' them, so they'd be caught up with the others.
Hermione was also worried about Voldemort connecting with the piece in Harry and hurting him. That was more of an old fear she had had for a long time and seemed to resurface not that the half spirit was sort of alive.
Snapping himself back into the present, Sirius' eyes narrowed briefly as he caught the tip of Griphook's lips rising in a parody of a sneaky smirk before he too straightened up. Like Remus, he didn't like the look.
Griphook seemed to pause, eyes widened in somewhat disbelief. He caught himself just before a smirk was able to overtake him. Those names led to two very powerful, rich and feared women.
Of course, the goblins didn't really have the same kind of fear for the wizards as others. However, that didn't mean that some humans didn't cause for a more cautious approach.
Griphook had to wonder if the man before him was either a brave fool or a clueless idiot.
Either way, any fall backs this action brought upon the man or Black didn't matter. The only important thing to Griphook was how he could benefit from such a move. Making sure he looked as unaffected as possible, Griphook began waving his hand for the needed parchments.
"Of course," he acknowledged. Pulling out an onyx bowl and gold blade, he continued. "I need a blood sample along with a written statement stating that you, and if your associate is to be privy, then he too has permission".
"He is, he will also enter the vaults with me" Sirius noted.
"You plan on entering the vaults today?" Griphook needed clarification.
"I do", Sirius waited for the goblin to list the enchantments placed upon the vaults.
He didn't.
This lack of procedure didn't go unnoticed by either man. Even so, they decided against pointing the breakout. They had to wonder if this was the goblin the kids had talked about, or if he was simply another with a similar mind frame.
With that in mind, both of their suspicions went up tenfold.
"Cut your palm over this" Griphook instructed, handing the blade to Sirius. Easily, he cut a thin line down his palm. After the required drops met the bowl, Remus silently took his hand and cast a nonverbal healing charm.
Sirius silently vowed to get at good as nonverbals as Remus, at the very least.
The bowl glowed gold as Griphook's hand waved over it. "Everything seems to be in order. The slip please" he held his hand out for the parchment. Sirius took them from Remus and handed them over.
A few stamps and copies later led to Griphook announcing "Follow me".
The three moved to one of the carrier carts. At a roller coaster speed, they took off. Deep, deep down in the tunnels they rode. Soon, they approached the Thieves Downfall.
Remus tensed up from his spot in the back while Sirius was too busy enjoying the ride with gleeful laughter. Ever since his escape, any fast form of transportation seemed to energize the man. He was still working out how to get his motorcycle from Hagrid.
Remus' wand slowly, stealthily peaked its way out of his extended pocket. He prepared to stun the goblin before he had a chance to see Sirius' enchantments wash away.
However, before he got the chance, they were zoomed though the down pour.
Griphook looked back to check, raising a brow at a wet and stunned Remus. "Moony old boy" Rectus looked at his friend with delighted blue eyes that had a twinkle in them at the moment. "You were going to dry us off. Good show" he played off.
Remus snapped back into the present and dried them all. Once more he had to be amazed over Harry's power. The children's enchantment continued to wow him. He felt a bit of pride as well as Harry and Vivian's grinning faces flashed through his mind.
Sirius never doubted his godson. He didn't doubt any of the powerful kids. Then again, he was also confident that if he was caught then not only could he and Remus handle it, but also Harry and the others would find a way to save them.
A bit of a daring sort of mindset, but that was just how Sirius worked.
They pulled up to the first vault, Bellatrix's.
Stepping out of the cart, the two followed and watched as Griphook ran his hand down the rounded door unlocking it.
Once more, the two waited for Griphook to list enchantments.
Once again, he failed to do so.
The vault door opened revealing a room filled to the brim with valuables and coins. Some things both recognized, some dark artifacts that only Sirius knew. Then there were the odd dark objects that eluded them both.
Griphook stayed well out of the room. "You may enter" he explained. "We will have to categorize anything that you take, should your challenge of the marriages be overturned" he drawled out.
His gaze kept snapping around the room with great interest.
"Curses and enchantments?" Sirius finally voiced, his cold exterior looking far too much like Malfoy. Griphook slightly scowled before catching himself putting on a duller expression.
He had hoped that they wouldn't ask. There were so many items in here that he was sure was goblin made. The wizards didn't deserve such valuables, he did!
Griphook just wasn't sure how he would be able to obtain them. He had been able to take a few items and gold from past clients. Claiming them as expense fees or even falsely reporting them as dark and dangerous before they 'mysteriously' disappeared.
However, he only did that trick when he was positive that he could get away with it. Never before had it tried it with a client tied to such wealth and infamously, like Black.
He believed that if he really wanted to take what he was sure should be rightly his, then he'd have to put in a little planning and patience.
"There is a geminio charm on most of the objects and coins. Along with a burning curse, though that is only on the tomes. If you'd like, I can go through everything and get back to you" he offered.
"That won't be necessary" Sirius immediately shot down. He didn't trust the little being. Something about him was just far too sketchy.
"Of course," Griphook's eyes hooded. "Tap this stone three times" he pointed to the slightly lighter stone by the door. "When you are ready for the cart to retreat you. If you need me, I shall be upstairs finishing your paperwork".
With that, he left them too it with one last look at the vault.
"Where is it?" Sirius asked looking around as Remus made sure they had privacy. "They said it looked like a chalice" he looked around. "I wish we could summon it, but that would trigger the hex".
Remus walked up, "Well, at least we knew that coming in" he mentioned. "Though I think you made the right call. I wouldn't want Griphook going through everything, even if he's just taking the charms off".
"He seemed off to you too?" Sirius asked, "Good, I was worried I might just be a a few galleons short. Being suspicious of everyone and all" he added in a mumbled.
"Not this time" Remus assured easily, making sure not to make too big of a deal out of what Sirius admitted. "Besides, we don't need him to find it" he said confidently.
"Why not?" Sirius looked at him slightly befuddled.
"Because it's there" Remus pointed to the two handled cup on a higher shelf. The Hufflepuff crest was very clearly stamped on the handle.
Seeing how it seemed to all but stand out invitingly, hence how quickly his companion had found the chalice led Sirius to simply saying "Ah".
"So…how do we get it?" Remus looked at the now grinning Sirius.
####SCENE BREAK####
"Potter!" Snape yelled, again.
No one was even sure what the class was supposed to be about as Snape had simply spent thirty minutes shouting questions at Harry.
"Hmm, yes" Harry lazily answered pleasantly.
Snape's hands were clenched so tightly that some of the students wondered if he'd have to visit Poppy for popping something.
Neville sure hoped so.
Hermione once more had to question why this man was allowed to teach. Pushing past everything he did to children; it was extremely obvious that he didn't want to be here. 'Why couldn't Dumbledore give him some other job' she sighed doodling different theories on string theory as her mind wondered.
"What potion does lacewing flies, leaches, and knotgrass create" Snape demanded with a straight back and smug smirk settling over him.
"Those would be ingredients for polyjuice potion" Harry said getting an extra grin from Ron and Hermione, though unlike the brunette with the fast-moving quill, Ron wasn't attempting to hide his amusement.
Neville gave a small grin as Vivian snuggled deeper into Ron's side, hands playing with the work calloused fingers he had hanging off her shoulder.
Unable to handle Potter getting the answer correct, he spun to Granger. "Granger, stop helping Potter cheat" he accused.
"Noted" Hermione barely acknowledged the man.
Now many students and even Snape himself were shocked! Hermione Granger always respected teachers. She seemed terrified to displease one. Then again, she usually had her hand in the air, not one on her chin as she wrote away casually.
Before Snape could try to yell at Hermione, Harry spoke up. He had the innocent look on again, making it a bit hard for his friends to keep their composure. "Perhaps my mother's talents for potions are finally setting in" Harry said.
He threw that emotional barb out there and it definitely stuck.
Snape's sneer froze as his eyes zeroed in on the boy. The shocked look was so intense that the other Knights instinctively tensed for a fight.
The tall, sallow man spent an awkward amount of time looking into Harry's eyes. Slowly, his expression turned…depressed.
A deep sorrow took over the anger that had previously consumed him. Quickly, he spun around as page numbers wrote themselves on the chalkboard after a stunted wave of his hand. "Finish reading until the end of class" came the deep timber as he marched to his office without looking back.
The students were confused, not sure what just happened.
Harry wasn't. In fact, he was feeling pretty good. There was no guilt or remorse over his words. Snape had hurt him plenty in the past, not holding back. Now, Harry gave him a small dose of his own medicine.
He should be grateful that was all Harry had restricted himself too.
Hermione didn't really notice the man's exit. Neville's smile grew and he idly went on to rereading one of his favorite herbology books.
Vivian totally snuggled into Ron's side as he held her tightly with one arm and held up a quidditch magazine with the other for the two to read.
"Do you think that's the end? Do you think he'll stop" Hermione had to ask Harry lowly, finally looking away from her paper.
He gave a gentle snort, hand lightly playing with one of her curls. "Not even close" he answered. "But neither will I".
####SCENE BREAK####
Albus felt as if something was off. It was as if the castle was attempting to tell him something. Yet, he couldn't figure out what it was.
There were no intruders in the castle. The ceiling would act up if they did. Also, he had the ghosts reporting to him along with the paintings. Still, there was an unusual feeling in the air. Like something wasn't right.
He didn't like it at all. Then again, he would admit that this feeling could have been more to do with the fact that Lucius Malfoy was sniffing around the school. Fudge had flooed Albus explaining how Malfoy represented many concerned council members and parents. Apparently, some rumors of last year had gotten out.
They were unflattering about the school to say the least.
Now, Malfoy was asking to send an inspector about the school. And Fudge had been more than willing to agree.
Albus was doing his best at trying to push any unwanted visits at bay. He didn't think the school needed someone poking around it.
Hogwarts was the safest place in Scotland or Britain after all.
Also, Albus didn't trust most of the people Fudge associated with. He definitely didn't trust Malfoy. He had had a bad feeling about that boy when he was in school, which proved to be true.
'If only I had followed my intuition about Tom' he thought with a tired sigh. 'So many could have been saved' he knew, then another thought hit him. 'Am I making the same mistake with Harry' the disturbing notion slithered back into his mind. Not for the first time.
He hadn't known for certain, but he definitely suspected that the Dursleys hadn't been the best to Harry. 'But they're family' he tried to convince himself again.
Albus remembered what Harry had said at his birthday party. It worried him, but he had to think a part of that might have been because he was losing control over such an important aspect…person.
'Tom soon found his problems at the orphanage dissolving as time went on. Though he had been much older' Albus made the comparisons.
Unwilling to go down that dark, terrifying thought, Albus shook himself.
"No, Harry isn't like Tom" he spoke out loud. "He's a good boy. He's what's going to defeat Voldemort and start a new age. I shall guide him, be his mentor" he said happy at the idea and sound of that. "He needs me" he then hummed, "I shall need to speak to his guardians" he rubbed his chin.
"Though that Rectus might be a problem. Remus should be able to help. I did help him attend school" he said to the disgust of some of the listening paintings.
"Then, if I help Sirius, if he's really innocent" he continued and fell into muttering that only he could understand. "Though proving so may be difficult. Possibly better left for later. There are more important things".
"More import-" Phineas Black sputtered in rage. He didn't care if Sirius was guilty or not. He was a Black! That's what mattered. Phineas had heard that his heir had added an heir and wards of his own. He'd have to look up on that.
Portraits got around a lot more than wizards knew.
With a huff, the old, deceased headmaster left his frame.
"Hmm, but how to go about setting up the meetings" Albus had to wonder. He could just ask, but he wanted to be sure that he was prepared.
With that, Albus set out planning possible meetings between Remus and Rectus in hopes of speaking to Black. Then he'd speak to Harry alone.
All this planning thankful put the thoughts of Malfoy out of his mind.
However, the pecking of an owl at his window distracted him. "The paper's already come" he looked confused at the Prophet that was in the bird's beak. The front page enlightened him on the unusual post.
'DEATH KNIGHTS STRIKE AGAIN', that made him tense up. As he began reading the article and the disgustingly detailed photographs accompanying it, he felt sick beyond belief.
He had thought he'd seen everything. As he got down further onto who the victim was and the horrendous acts committed, he couldn't help but mutter 'Dear Merlin'.
####SCENE BREAK####
Rita Skeeter couldn't believe her luck. These Death Knights and their Master were great for business. Or more importantly they were great for her.
They were new and fresh. Some said they were doing what people had wanted to do for ages while others painted them as Morgana le Fay reincarnated. Though, those giving them the praise were more like talk between friends or around the water cooler.
Definitely when they thought they were alone. With Rita on the case though, nobody was ever alone.
All those whispers, all those 'just between us', every little tidbit, she caught.
"Whether they're good or bad, it's good for me. I can work both angles" she spoke to herself. "Is Black innocent and there is a cover up scandal? Who is involved and how far does it go? Is he just a pawn in a new dark lord's scheme" she was practically salivating at the headlines she could publish.
"Now this is beautiful" she hummed looking at the shots Bobo had taken of Macnair's body and property.
She was doing her own research on cracking the odd coded message that was carved into the flesh on his chest. It seemed some of the aurors had an idea about where they could find the language. Rita was sure it was a mix of Latin with something else she had to figure out.
Rita had heard some unspeakables being called in, but she couldn't risk hanging about. Unspeakables had shown her that they were not to be tested.
She looked at the symbol around the house. The death knot was easy enough to recognize.
Macnair's body placement was brutal to put it mildly.
"Now" she hummed, "Should we make you villains or heroes" Rita had to wonder. Luckily, she knew it wouldn't take too long for her imagination to take root and figure something out.
####SCENE BREAK####
"Do you think they'll try to get one on their own?" Vivian asked Harry in a slightly low tone. The five had just left herbology and were heading to lunch to meet up with Luna.
Surprisingly, or maybe not so surprisingly, Snape hadn't come out for the rest of potions class. That left the students to their notes and then the next two classes before lunch. Harry had to wonder if Snape would appear at lunch, or if he was still caught up in his memories.
Vivian had then asked about Remus and Sirius, wondering if they men were doing more than training themselves up and getting ready for the meeting with Madam Bones.
Harry had been wondering the same thing. Both he and Vivian knew the two men on a whole other level than the others. Though Ron and Hermione vowed to themselves to take the chance to really get to know the two men that meant so much to their significant others.
They hadn't taken the chance the first time. They hadn't really been able too, and they had been too blinded by other issues and opinions to really try.
They weren't going to make that same mistake again. They swore so.
Neville and Luna just wanted to better know the two in general. They wouldn't mind having a close friendship with the two.
Vivian and Harry knew that sitting and waiting was not Sirius' style. And when Remus got around Sirius, he became a bit more like his younger more relaxed self. That meant he sometimes went along with Sirius' plans. Letting himself go and be the real Remus that wasn't buried under hundreds of worries.
"We know how they are. What they've been thinking" Harry said in an equally quiet tone. "They did ask a lot about each one".
"Precise questions" Vivian agreed.
"Do you think that they'll go after one then?" Neville asked curiously.
"Which one could they go after? Harry has the ring" Ron pointed out. "And we've got the diary".
"It would be too risky for them to go for the diadem" Hermione interjected. "That would be easier for us to get unless they were planning to visit. Even then, it wouldn't make sense". Then it seemed like a light went off atop her head.
"The cup" she added a little too loudly.
"Blimey Mione" Ron shot her a look, "Might want to try again. I don't think Hagrid heard you" he added making her shoot them all an apologetic look.
"It's fine" Harry assured them giving a casual look around the room as they walked over to the Ravenclaw table taking seats around the calmly waiting Luna.
"Hello Luna Be-" Neville cut himself off from almost calling her his favorite nickname. Luna gave him a somewhat sad smile as the others didn't know what to say.
"Hello Neville Bear" she responded very softly. Neville felt a lump form in his throat at that. He sat close to her, the same smile reflecting off of his face.
Their friends felt their own hearts ache at that and hoped that this was a good step for the two to heal and maybe even accept that they were so obviously still in love.
"What were you all talking about" Luna went to move the conversation as Neville cleared his throat.
The others noticed some of the students shooting Luna odd looks then whispering.
"Rectus and Remus" Neville answered, "How's the warpsurs" he asked.
"Promising" she replied without missing a step. "Some are very promising. I'd like to talk to Harry about adopting a bat".
Harry actually blinked at that. It wasn't that he totally didn't understand, it was just the idea shocked him, "What?" Harry had to ask making Luna smile.
"A bat, a big bat with an interesting snout" she elaborated while adding far too much pudding to her plate.
"And you want to adopt this large snout creature, even with its unpleasant disposition?" Harry wondered taking a sip of pumpkin juice. "What would you even want him for? What good could it do us to take on such a volatile and complicated pet?"
"Especially one that I doubt is trainable" Ron added sending a curious look to the still empty seat which Snape usually occupied.
"It would be fun" Luna began, "Also, he is a very talented pet. You can't deny that" Luna put in.
"And so humble, as we all know" Neville muttered.
"I think Luna's right, don't you Mione?" Vivian spoke up. "It could be a lot of fun" she started to grin.
"It would definitely be interesting" Hermione added thoughtfully. "And training could be…oh so enjoyable" her voice dropped as an almost painful looking smile broke over her face. "Think of what he must be able to endure" she suggested before catching herself.
They had to remember they were nowhere close to being alone.
"I wish to make him a usable pet" Luna interjected. "I know how much fun you have with training" she told the other two girls. "But I believe he has great potential which we were robbed of before" she 'accidentally' flipped some mash at two girls looking at her and whispering.
They squeaked and scooted farther away.
Vivian and Ron snickered as Hermione pouted. Neville was a little worried for Luna but tried to tell himself that she could take care of herself.
Harry was concentrated on if he should even entertain Luna's idea. He didn't like Snape, that was obvious. He didn't think he would ever like the man. However, he didn't hate him, not really.
Harry used to, especially after Sirius' death. He had thought the man basically orchestrated the event.
Yet, as he grew older and wiser, he realized that Snape was really a pawn, a chess piece in a much bigger fight.
Even some of his own acts were beyond his control, because of his two masters.
'But could he be an asset to me. He would have a new master, only one' he knew that thought wouldn't unburden the bitter man. 'Snape would hate serving me. Though he is talented to be sure' he nibbled on his food some more as the others talked about unimportant things.
'But would it be worth it to bend him to me?' Harry asked himself again.
'Yes' came the mental voice of Luna making him send the blonde a flat look.
She munched on her gravy covered beef with the biggest, most innocent eyes she was capable of making. Light blue fairy lights, that's what they reminded him off.
Harry had to chuckle as she continued to stare at him, cheek humorously stuffed as she chewed.
"Alright Luna" Harry finally agreed making the girl almost choke on a happy cheer. Neville had to pat her back to help. "This is your new mission" he said lowly, and she nodded eagerly. "You can ask any of us for help, but I'm going to rely on you to lead this" he said seriously.
"I won't let you down" she said, stopping herself from saluting.
"I know you won't" he nodded, accepting the extra food Hermione put on his plate.
"Neville" Luna turned to the boy at her side. "Do you think you could help me with this?" she asked hopefully.
"I'd love too. Whatever you need!" Neville rushed to agree, knocking his cup over and spilling onto the unamused Ron. Vivian chuckled and quickly waved her wand, cleaning up the mess and her boyfriend.
The sputtering Neville seemed to have been flustered, excited about the request making him act so much like the young uncoordinated boy he had been.
Hermione and Vivian had to smile at that.
"I mean yes, I'd love to help you" Neville breathed out, gaining control again.
"Thank you" she grinned softly, going back to her pudding.
"Now" Harry spoke up as his eyes caught the Headmaster. "Who wants to bet that he'll call me to his office before my meeting with Bones?"
"Sorry" Ron scoffed as the others shook their heads and made noises of agreement. "I'm not keen on betting against a sure thing".
####SCENE BREAK####
Lucius Malfoy was one pissy wizard. So far, he hadn't heard any trouble coming from Hogwarts. Not any real trouble anyway. Draco's continuous letters grew by the day. The boy was both whining about the Potter brat and testing Lucius' patience.
Lucius was sure something was supposed to be happening! He just didn't know what. He had been told it was immensely powerful. Voldemort hadn't told Lucius what it was, or even if he should pass it down. Though, he had hinted at it. At least, Lucius hoped he had. He was still terrified of the dark wizard even in his apparent death.
When bestowing the diary to his care, his lord had impressed upon Lucius two things.
One; never, ever lose the diary or tell anyone about it. Lucius almost flinched remembering the cocky tone from the Master of death when mentioning knowing of his plan.
Two; the diary would somehow bring the cleansing of the scourge known as mudbloods if it ever found its way into Hogwarts.
So far, Malfoy was down two for two. No dead children and someone knew of the diary's location.
In order to sniff around and see what was really going on, Lucius decided to pay a visit to his dear 'friend' Fudge. A few mild suggestions and a play into the man's ego should definitely see the tall blonde man having free rein over inspection of the magical school.
####SCENE BREAK####
Harry met with his Knights in the room of requirement. Until he figured out a plan for the basilisk, this would be their meeting space.
As they went about getting situated, none of them knew what Remus and Sirius were up too. Or the spot of trouble they found themselves in. That would soon change.
The group relaxed having decided to eat alone.
"Alright" Harry brought attention to himself. They sat around a round table, all of them liked the symbolism. They blamed lack of proper parental supervision for their theatrics.
"We have another target to hit this weekend" Harry went on as the others looked from their lounging chairs. "We also have a few…important things to see too" he hinted getting smiles and chuckles. "But right now" Harry laughed pulling the diary which reeked of dark magic out.
"I believe we have a pen pal who's been dying to see us".
A/N:What do you guys think? It was longer, but I decided to make it two parts for various reasons. I also really wanted to get something up as I've been swamped with school. Anyway, hope you enjoyed this chapter and I'll try to get the next one up sooner. Review, ask or suggest if you'd like. Until next time, stay safe and have a great day.