Welcome to Gaia! ::

Chapter 15: Tonks the Teacher.
Harry walked purposfully out into the bright sun light of the court yard and found Ron and Neville waiting for him.
“So what did you do now?” Ron asked lazily.
“Yeah, when is your first detention this year?” Neville laughed.
Harry sighed, it did seem like the proper start to a term, of his, at Hogwarts. It had happened often enough that is first detention was within the first week.
“I don’t have detention,” Harry said at last. For some reason the prospect of private lessons with Snape seemed far worse then the busy work of detention. “I’ve got private lesson with him again,” Harry said.
“Occlumency?” Ron asked.
“No, advanced potions and dark arts,” Harry sighed.
Neville’s eyes grew wide, “why?” he asked, “I would have through he would have kicked you out of potions as you didn’t get Outstanding on you potions O.W.L”
“I think he had to change his criteria now that we were accepted by Slughorn,” Ron said as he layed himself down on the low courtyard wall.
“I guess,” Neville said, “but then, why would Snape give Harry private lessons?”
“I don’t think he wants to,” Harry said, “but I think Dumbledore has asked him to.”
A screech filled the air and a flash of fire brought Fawkes to Harry’s shoulder. Seconds later Hedwig appeared and landed on his other shoulder, not taking much notice of the firey red bird.
Neville and Ron broke into wild laughter as Harry brushed feathers away from his cheek.
“You will be old man Potter, that all the kids are afraid of. The bird man,” Ron Laughed histerically.
“You are off your rocker,” Harry said rolling his eyes, “I wont live long enough to be old man Potter.”
The laughing stopped as the words left Harry’s mouth
“How could you say something like that?” Neville whispered.
“Because its true,” Harry sighed and Hedwig nuzzled closer to his cheek. Fawkes let out a high mournful cry. “If one of us is to live the other must dye and though I’m not going to give up without a fight, neither will Voldemort,” he added and staired up at the sky as the blue was filled with fluffy white clouds.
Their break passed faster then it seemed and soon, Harry, Ron and Neville had met up with Hermione outside the transfigurations classroom. It was located on the first floor of the castle where the floor opened up to the green houses. The sun flooded in the walls of windows and outside they could see more students heading off to join Professor Sprout in green house three.
“What do you think we can expect from Tonks,” Hermione whispered as more and more students gathered outside the class room.
“She’ll probably be a good Professor,” Neville said optimistically, “it just seems like its in her nature to be really good at transfiguring things, I mean she transfigures herself doesn’t she?” he asked
“Yeah she does, but she’s really clumzy,” Ron said rolling his eyes, “at least we all know the Reparo charm really well. It shouldn’t be to bad.”
“You mean Hermione knows the Reparo charm really well,” Harry laughed as he passed Fawkes over to Ron.
“You should have left them outside,” Hermione said still watching Harry and his feathered friends, “Professor Tonks isn’t going to be pleased,” she said.
“Alright that just sounds weird,” Ron said as Fawkes crept up his arm and onto his shoulder.
“What, we’ve never been aloud our animals in class before,” Hermione said.
“Except in transfigurations,” Neville smiled and took Trevor, his toad, out of his cloak pocket.
“No I mean calling Tonks Professor,” Ron said as he held Fawkes back, who looked hungily at Trevor. Harry had to hold Hedwig back as well.
“Weird or not, you’ll have to call her that,” Hermione said with an annoyed tone.
Suddenly the classroom door swung open and students began to file out, all looking amused and chatting light heartedly with each other. It almost seemed like more animal came out of the classroom then students did as they watched the feathered and furry exiting the room with the laughing students. Soon Ginny emerged with another group of Gryffindore students.
“How was it?” Neville asked as she walked passed them, followed by a proud black cat.
“Today has been the best day,” Ginny smiled as she scooped the cat, with brilliant purple eyes, into her arms, “she is an amazing Professor.”
“Where on earth did you get that?” Ron asked as he looked at the beautiful black cat.
“Don’t you recognise Arnold?” Ginny smiled.
“That’s your Pigmy Puff?” Ron asked stunned.
“Yes,” Ginny said beaming, “I did it on my first try, I told you, Tonks was an amazing Professor. Harry you had better be careful with Hedwig, Tonks transfigured an owl into a bear today,” she said and went on her way.
Hedwig squeezed closer to Harry’s neck at Ginny’s last words.
“You’ll be ok,” Harry said softly as he reached up and petted Hedwig lovingly, “she’ll turn you back.”
Hedwig ruffled her feathers angrilly and flew from Harry’s shoulder only to return moments later.
“Now you’ve made her mad,” Ron laughed.
Before Harry could retaliate Tonks stepped out of the classroom, her pink hair blazing in the sun, a look of excitement across her face.
“Good day everyone, please come in,” She smiled and stepped aside to let them pass.
Harry and Ron had to look twice when Tonks had exited the classroom to welcome the new wave of students. Her bubble gum pink hair was recognizable but not much else seemed like the care free, happy go lucky, Tonks, nor did she seem like the old, run down, Tonks that they had known the previous year. She was tall and proud, with her blue eyes shining with hope and confidence. She stepped aside and smiled brightly at the students she knew and even more brightly at the ones she was meeting for the first time. Her robes were a dark purple and floated all the way to the floor, nothing like the robes of an auror that Harry had seen in the ministry of magic but much more professional. She wore a scarf in her hair of black lace, that had ends that fell halfway down her back but that kept her hair from falling into her eyes. She looked generally happy, not over joyed, and not just alright but very content to be doing what she was doing.
“How has your first day been, Professor?” Hermione asked as she came up to Tonks at the door.
“It’s been wonderful. I can’t believe I didn’t do this teaching thing sooner, dare I say I am a better teacher than I was an auror,” she smiled sweetly at Hermione.
“I am very much looking forward to your lessons, I have heard only good things,” Hermione said brightly.
“Ah, yes, I’d forgotten how fast news spreads in this place,” Tonks giggled, “lets hope I live up to your expectations, Miss.Granger,” she said and motioned for Hermione to go into the classroom.
The room looked very much as Professor McGonagall had left it. The brilliant sunlight filled the room through the high windows. The grounds outside were well visible and a beautiful green, healthy colour. It was hard to not admire the beauty that Hogwarts grounds always portrayed but inside the classroom Tonks had added her own touches. A lazy black cat snoozed on her desk among other transfigured items. Much of the room was left clear and there was plenty of room to work with.
The students settled into their places. Again the class was smaller then what they had been used to but it was much bigger then Snape’s class that morning. They had all taken their seats and were placing their books on the tables when Tonks swept to the front of her classroom. As she passed Harry, Ron and Hermione she transfigured two perches out of think air for Hedwig and Fawkes and continued to her place at the front of the class.
“See Hermione, I told you she wouldn’t mind the birds,” Ron whispered as he moved Fawkes from his shoulder to the perch.
Hermione glared at him unnerved.
“Good morning everyone,” Tonks said brightly as she stood in front of the class, much like McGonagall had done before all of her lessons, “for those of you who do not know me, I am Professor Nymphadora Tonks,” she said proudly to the class, “I have been invited, very graciously, by Professor McGonagall to pick up where the new headmistress had left off. As this is the first class of the year it will be a little more fun and very much filled with review for you, and for myself, to see where you all stand in the extensive realm of transfigurations.” she smiled at them again and with a wave of her wand a wide arrangement of items appeared on the desks before them, from tea cups to paperclips and cotton balls. After a long moment of silence as the students admired the items in front of them Tonks cleared her throat and stepped behind her desk where the same items had always been with her lazy black cat.
“Sadly for all of you, the first thing I will be doing with you is a pop quiz,” she said sadly and a large grown rose from the ensemble, “please take out a piece of parchment and write numbers from one to fifteen along the margin and then we will begin,” she said.
Hermione scribbled quickly and enthusiastically onto her parchment and brought her eyes back up to Tonks, who stood patiently at the front of the room. Harry and Ron sunk lower into their chairs and sulkingly wrote down their numbers.
“Alright everyone, you will have five minutes to identify all fifteen items on my desk before and after transfigurations,” Tonks said when they were all looking at her again.
Frantically the students turned their eyes to her desk and their own items and crammed what was sitting on the desk into their short term memories.
“On the count of three, you may start writing,” Tonks said as she brought her wand up in front of her, “one, two, three,”and with a wave of her wand all the items on her desk and on the students desks changed into something else, including the black lazy cat.
Hermione’s hand shot up after the items changed.
“Yes, Miss. Granger,” Tonks said acknowledging Hermione’s hand.
“There were sixteen items on your desk,” Hermione said almost in a whisper.
“I was waiting for someone to notice that,” Tonks grinned, “it is your bonus question. Tell me what was the sixteenth item and what it became.”
But the black cat had disappeared from the desk completely and nothing had returned to its place. The students looked around the classroom to see if anything had changed but there was nothing that they could see anywhere around them. Hermione grinned to herself as she wrote down her answers and double checked them.
“How many do you think you got?” Ron whispered to Harry.
“I think I’ve gotten all fifteen but I don’t know the bonus,” Harry sighed as he continued to scan the room.
“Alright that was five minutes,” Tonks said and waved her wand again. All the rolls of parchment flew to her outstretched hand. She smiled as she sat down at her desk and scanned through the quizzes, “you’ve all done very well,” she said, “but only one knows my bonus object, though all of you have written down black cat to and then nothing,” she said as she placed the parchments in a desk drawer and walked out from behind the desk again, “Miss. Granger, what was the bonus item?” she asked Hermione.
Hermione’s cheeks turned red but she smiled proudly, “the jeweled butterfly in you hair,” Hermione said.
“Correct, ten points for Gryffindore,” Tonks smiled and took the clip out of her hair and set it on the desk, another flick of her wand made the clip return to its original form. The cat still slept after the transfigurations, “this is Pepper, my extremely lazy, old, cat, who is useless aside for practicing transfigurations on,” she said as she scooped the cat into her arms, “he’ll be here with us every day because we will be working very extensively on animagus and transfiguring living things this years. Please do bring your pets to class, I assure you that they will not be harmed as long as I am here, but Mr. Weasley I would suggest you bring you owl instead of Harry’s Phoenix. Can anyone tell me why?” she asked.
Hermione’s hand shot up again.
“Miss. Granger,” Tonks smiled.
“Because the Phoenix can only be transfigured if they want to be changed, and as they are a very proud bird, it is not likely that one would be able to convince a Phoenix into allowing itself to be transfigured,” Hermione said mater of factly.
“Very good, Miss. Granger, take another five points for Gryffindore,” Tonks smiled.
Ron rolled his eyes at Hermione as Fawkes stretched out his wings and let out a loud proud cry. Harry laughed at his birds vanity but knew very well that he was quite lucky to have him and that the bird was quite deserving of a vain side as it was one of the most powerful magical creatures.
The rest of the class was spent in rounds as each person transfigured the items on the table as fast as they could while the other two people timed the transfigurations and judged the quality of the transformations. Tonks also cruised around the room watching the magic fly and teaching very simple disguising techniques to students, for them to use on their pets. Harry had successfully turned Hedwig into a brown barn owl, much to her dismay.
When class was over and all the students were heading out, Tonks slipped Harry a note. She winked at him and shooed him away as other students had started to arrive. As he walked the halls on his way to his last class, he read the note.
Dear Harry.
You are to come to the room of requirements tonight after midnight, wear your cloak and come alone.
Professor Tonks.
Harry wondered for a moment why his professor was asking him to break school rules on the first day, especially to go to the room of requirements, a place he had no desire to go to and no idea what he would be looking for there. He couldn’t spend much time on the note as he joined a very excited group of seventh year students outside the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom. Everyone had very high hopes of an exciting class.

Chapter 17: Malfoy’s Mother.

Narcissa spent most of her time ordering the returning house elves to renew the splendor of the Malfoy mansion while Bellatrix continued to toil over a low boiling cauldron in the dusty kitchen. Narcissa had regained much of her composure knowing that Draco was once again under her roof and in a place where she could do all in her power to protect and cure him. But still there was a sinking in her heart as she moved about the huge empty house that overlooked the frightened little village, “they will all pay for what they have made us become,” she hissed as she looked out one of the broken windows. With a wave of her wand the glass was replaced, the fire in the hearth of the dusty room was lite and the furniture was returned to its former glory, “that is much better.” she said as she walked to the fire and felt its warmth.
Soon she found her way back down into the kitchen where dust was flying, sparks erupted from the boiling cauldron and Bellatrix cursed at herself when thing were not going properly and more so at Snape for concocting such a potion that she could not figure out.
“You will do as I say and you will make the young master comfortable,” Narcissa yelled as she spotted a very young, very rebellious house elf out of the corner of her eye. The little elf scurried off angrily, motioning vulgarly at his mistress as he went, “oh it is so hard to find good help these days,” she sighed.
“You should have never released your other elves,” Bellatrix said as she looked up from her cauldron. Her face was splotched and red from the potion and being so close to the fire.
“I did not let them go, they belonged to my husband,” Narcissa said angrily, “and because I killed him they will not answer to me. So I kicked them all out.”
“Where has this temper come from Cissy?” Bella asked as she leaned back from the fire and whipped her brow on her dirty sleeve, “you were never this angry before. Just be calm and I am sure you will figure out how to deal with this. You were always good at that,” Bellatrix said as she stood and dusted the dirt off her filthy robes.
“For heaven sake Bella, if you are going to stay here you are going to have to act like you belong here,” Narcissa said and waved her wand at Bellatrix.
“What did you do to my cloths and my hair!” Bella cried as her old, black hooded robes were transformed into brilliant blue dress robes, her hair was straightened and cleaned and though nothing had happened, she felt like her skin had been scrubbed by wire brushes till it was clean. Even the dirt was gone from beneath her finger nails and a coat of bright blue polish was on them, “oh my god I look like a woman,” Bella nearly screamed.
“That’s what you are, and as a relation of mine you must act like it,” Narcissa said.
“But you never cared before what I looked like,” Bellatrix sighed.
“I’ll not be know as a weakling and I will not have the name of Malfoy disgraced anymore then it has already been. I ow that much to my son,” Narcissa said, “I have a reputation to uphold and if you are to live under this roof then you had better get used to living in such a state.”
“You sound like our mother,” Bella sighed, “its why I left in the first place and ran off with a rebel.”
“You fell in love with the greatest rebel around,” Narcissa said viscously, “but you were never good enough for the dark lord and you know it. It is why you had to settle for that weakling Lestrange.”
“You know nothing of that subject and I would ask you to stay out of my personal affairs,” Bella said angrily as she turned back to the cauldron, “and as soon as possible I will be leaving you so you need not worry about me disgracing you.”
“Oh be grateful you have a place to stay,” Narcissa scolded.
“I would have had a place,” Bella said grumpily, “I do have many friends.”
“I’m sure you would and I am sure you do,” Narcissa rolled her eyes, “and how is the antidote?”
“If I knew what potion it was I would be doing better,” Bella sighed.
“How hard can it be?” Narcissa said angrily, “how many enchanted sleep potions could there be?”
“Before Snape started brewing or after?” Bella said starting to feel the pressure.
“What is that supposed to mean?” Narcissa practically screamed.
“Snape is known as one of the best potioneers in the world because he’s concocted so many different potions himself. This enchanted sleep could be unique only to him.” Bellatrix said as she started to pace the kitchen, “I’m mixed a warming drought for Draco but I don’t know if it will work.”
“At least you know how to treat some of it,” Narcissa said as she grabbed the vile off the table and stormed out of the kitchen.
“Why is it my task? You were always better at potions,” Bella hissed under her breath and turned back to the cauldron, “heaven forbid you should break a nail or something,” she said to herself looking at her well manicured hand and with a wave of her wand the colour was stripped from her nails, “that was taking it just too far, Cissy,” she hissed and went back to the cauldron.
Narcissa walked slowly into the bedchamber. It was grand and dark with the fire dying down. She pointed her wand at the hearth and soon the fire blazed again. The room became warmer very quickly as the sun set outside the windows. She walked to the large window and grasped the heavy curtains as she stared at the horizon and the setting sun, “how much longer must this go on?” she asked as she sighed. Closing the curtains, she walked slowly to her sons bed side.
The colour in Draco’s face had returned and though he still looked ill, he looked to be getting better. The fear that he would not make it started to fade but the dread of what Bellatrix had said was very fresh in Narcissa’s mind. Could Snape have poisoned Draco so terrible even after vowing to protect him. Could such a promise be broken so easily.
She paced at the bed side for a long time before she sat down next to him and brushed his hair out of his face, “I’m sorry this has happened to you,” she whispered as she pulled the stopper out of the vial that Bella had brewed and placed it against is hips, “I should have never made such a deal with such a terrible man. Who would have dreamt that Snape could deceive us in such a way. It seems almost impossible now, and yet it has happened. I am so sorry, my child, I will never let anything so vile happen to you again. I swear to you on my life,” she said to him as she grasped his hand and watched the liquid in the vile change colours.
The red liquid dropped into his mouth and seemed to seep on its own down his throat, “please let this work.” she whispered as she stood and began to pace the room, “I will not let them get away with doing this to you. Snape will pay and he will pay dearly for betraying us all.” she said and stormed out again, “the dark lord will avenge you my son, he has to.”
The potions effects were long lasting but slowly, as Draco lay in bed, the warmth of the fire and the warming drought pushed the poison of enchanted sleep from his body. It was not a potion any different in a sense that it was curable in the same way but the effects of the sleep were long lasting. Snape had made sure that if Draco was found it would not be easy to break him out of his sleep but it would not be impossible either and he had known that Bellatrix or Narcissa would have the means to save the child and therefore he betrayed them without breaking the bond. Many more days past before he woke but his mother was present to see it and with all the grace in the world she would not show Draco and ounce of fear.

Chapter 19: Lunch.

Hermione, Ron and Harry walked quickly and silently down to the great hall. All three were deep in thought as they went. Hermione was contemplating her weakness as a woman and if she would ever be able to hold her own ground and to fight like she needed. She knew that there were hundreds of thousands of people fighting this war and that many of them were indeed women but she was not sure with her own abilities. She was disappointed with her failure and was determined to put more time and effort into her defenses then ever before. Ron was furious that anyone would go after his woman in such a way and he was also very afraid of Hermione if she could ever find out that he felt that ways. To him she had always been the rock of their group and to have any weakness or failures for Hermione was nearly impossible to think of. Harry was lost in his own thoughts and his own worries for his friends. He knew the powers of the unforgivable curses but he didn’t ever think that they could ever happen to any of his friends. Had he been so naive to think that this would not happen eventually or was it just a hope that he held deep within him that they would never fall into any real danger. They had all come so far without perishing when would their luck run out? He was now questioning himself and how he would tell. It would be something he would need help with but he didn’t know who to ask anymore.
It had been a very interesting class that they had just had with Professor Beck and yet they, all three of them, weren’t sure what to think just yet. He had opening their minds to new possibilities and though they always worked very well together they each held concerns now that they would all have to deal with on their own and by their own terms.
The great hall was a buzz with activity as the students settled in for a bit of a break. The members of the order of the phoenix patrolled around the tables, sticking very close to the students from slytherin, and taking reports on any suspicious activity from the house prefects. But, even with their ever growing presence the mood in the great hall was light and the students seemed to enjoy the security of such a service to them.
“They are so ‘no tolerance’ this year,” Hermione whispered as Mad Eye Moody passed by them.
“Yes, Miss Granger we are,” Moody said, his back to them as he passed, “most students don’t seem to mind however.”
“Oh I don’t mind, I think it is a very good idea,” Hermione said.
“I am very glad to hear it,” Moody smiled.
“Not just eyes at the back of his head, Hermione, ears too!” Ron giggled as Hermione turned bright red.
“That’s going to get annoying really fast,” Harry sighed as he helped himself to a sandwich.
“Maybe for you,” Hermione said, “but for many students who are not used to what we have seen and the danger we have come to live with, the fear is very real. I feel safer knowing that they are here and I would not hazzard to guess that many other students feel the same way.”
“We can learn a lot form them I guess,” Ron said taking Hermione side, “I am sure if we talked to some of them they would participate in some of our DA sessions. We could learn a lot from real Aurors.”
“That is exactly my point,” Hermione smiled and patted Ron’s hand, “thank you.”
“You’re welcome,” Ron blushed.
“Get a room,” Harry laughed.
“Good afternoon, Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss Granger,” Professor Beck said as he snuck up on them.
“Hello professor,” they all said as they looked at him in a very confused way.
“What did you think of class?” he asked as he sat down with them.
“Um,” Harry said feeling a little uncomfortable, “it wasn’t what I had, had in mind for Defense Against the Dark Art,” he said with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
“What he means professor is that he didn’t expect to have to face off against his friends,” Hermione said across the table, “he was a little caught off guard.”
“Splendid,” Beck smiled, “the exact reaction I wanted.”
“I beg you pardon,” Harry said angrily.
“Ah, you are offended, I do apologize,” Beck frowned, “but it is something that must be done. You see, Harry, you trust to well but you cannot trust magic.”
“What?” Harry asked impolitely.
“Well, you see, magic is so unpredictable that no matter how hard you try it can always be used against you. You have to outsmart it and sometimes that just doesn’t happen,” he said.
“You talk of magic as if it were its own complete being,” Hermione said a little skeptically, “why?”
“Because, in my opinion is to some extent is,” Beck answered, “it is the one thing that makes us different from muggles, isn’t that correct?”
“Yes,” Hermione said, “though every person if different in their own way and it is that, that helps witches and wizards to interpret the magic that flows through their veins. You can’t blame the magic you have to blame the decisions that people make. Muggles made bad decisions just as we do and those bad decisions lead to conflict for the muggles as well.”
“I have to disagree,” Beck stated, “because there is always an outside source to conflicts.”
“What do you mean professor?” Hermione asked completely captivated by the conversation now.
“Well take for example, the second world war, why did it start?” Beck asked.
“Because Hitler had a plan to dominate European society and promote the superiority of the German people,” Hermione said.
“That is incorrect,” Beck said, “it was not simply on the account of Hitler’s ideology, it was also because of British ideology and the idea that the civilized world is better then any other. The problem with that is all countries have a different idea of what civilization should be. It was because religion and fear. The biggest aspects in all conflict is fear. And fear over all is universal. The same problem arises with muggle and magic relations. Each group is afraid of the other. And that is the ruling figure in this war we are all involved in and that Voldemort is capitalizing on. He knows people are afraid and he will play on that. Therefore fear itself is what is to be concurred. My job is to teach you not to fear. ”
“How can you teach that?” Hermione asked, “everyone had different and justifiable fears.”
“Yes, which makes my job very difficult,” he said, “but by teaching you have to channel your magical skills and your fear I may give you the resources you need to control it just enough to make the right decisions.”
“I will not lie,” Harry said as he piped into the conversations, “I am skeptic that you will be able to achieve anything.”
“Why do you say that, Harry?” he asked.
“Because you started out by teaching us that we are not to trust anyone,” Harry said, “how are you to concur fear if you can’t trust anyone?”
“I did not teach you to fear your friends, I simply gave you a scenario for what may happen,” Beck said.
“But how does that teach you to control you fear?” Harry asked angrily.
“It teachers you to recognize the weakness,” Beck said.
“Hermione is not weak and she would fight an unforgivable curse with all her might,” Harry practically yelled as he stood and slammed his fists on the table.
“Ah, it has been nice chatting with you, but I must run, I am needed elsewhere,” Beck said looking around frantically, “this is for you Harry,” he said handing him a large portfolio and he dashed away.
“Don’t opening here,” Hermione hissed as she watched Ron and Harry whisper over the portfolio, “there are to many people. Take it somewhere else.”
“Good idea,” Harry said as he jumped up from the table, “the common room is probably empty,” he said and dashed off with Ron close behind him.
“But we haven’t eaten yet!” Hermione sighed and ran after them.
They ran quickly and without interruption as all the rest of the school had gathered out in the school grounds or in the great hall. The sun shown in the windows of the school as they ran. Hermione soon caught up to them as the walked through the portrait hole and into the common room. The large portrait of Dumbledore was empty as they walked in.
“I told you it would be deserted, even Dumbledore is gone,” Ron smiled as he flew into one of the sofas.
“That is because everyone is hungry,” Hermione sighed as she conjured some sandwiches out of mid air.
“We knew you would have that covered!” Ron said as he reached over and greedily grabbed one of Hermione sandwiches.
“Ron, you are so rude,” Hermione hissed.
“But you love me,” Ron smiled.
“Sometimes I wonder,” Hermione sighed, “what’s the matter Harry?” she asked as she watched him ponder over the portfolio.
“Why should he be giving me this?” Harry asked before even opening the folio.
“Maybe it was Dumbledore’s research,” Hermione said.
“Or maybe its names of all the death eaters,” Ron said with his mouth full.
“Or maybe its extra home work,” Harry sighed.
“Well, you’ll never know if you don’t open it. Just get it over with,” Hermione said.
“Here, you do it,” Harry said as he passed it to Hermione, “you’ll know better then I, if it something important.”
“Well clearly it’s important,” She said as she put down the plate of sandwiches and took the folio from Harry, “how important is the question,” she added and opened the folio.
“So what is it?” Ron asked as she stole another sandwich from Hermione’s plate.
“It’s a students record,” Hermione said a little confused.
“Are you sure?” Harry asked as he jumped up and ran to her side.
“Yes,” Hermione said passing a photograph to Harry from inside the folio.
“I’ve never seen her before have you?” Harry asked looking just as confused as Hermione.
“Let me see!” Ron cried and jumped up from his chair.
“What house is she in?” Harry asked, “that might be why we don’t know her.”
“It doesn’t give a house,” Hermione said as she frantically flipped through the pages.
“She looks old,” Ron said as he passed the photo back to Harry, “maybe she’s before our time.”
“No, her enrollment date was the same as ours,” Hermione said, “this is so strange, there is hardly any information in here and yet the portfolio is full. Listen to this, Helena no last name, enrollment confirmed by Albus Dumbledore. Height five foot, eye colour blue and green, pure blood from Britain. That’s all that is in here. She’s done her O.W.Ls and gotten excellent on everything, but she would have been in all of our classes. I’ve never seen her before.”
“And there is nothing about house? Her previous dwelling, boarding passes for the express, Hogsmade letter?” Ron asked.
“Nothing,” Hermione said, “finally examinations, marks, this one sheet on who she is and the photo and this,” she added as she pulled and envelop out of the folio, “it’s addressed to you Harry.”
“What?” Harry asked surprised.
“That is very odd,” Ron said as he took his seat once again.
“You best open it,” Hermione said as she handed it over to him, “it is yours.”
Harry took the letter and hesitantly opened it. He glanced at it, sighed heavily and threw it back to Hermione.
“Dear Mr Potter, Do not be late, midnight at the room of requirements. Come alone. Professor Maxwell Beck,” Hermione read aloud.
“It’s a conspiracy, they are all in it together,” Ron laughed.
“Oh this year is going to be so much fun,” Harry said sarcastically as his stomach growled.
“Here Harry, eat something,” Hermione frowned and passed him her plate, “we have to get back to class.”
“Who the hell is Helena and why does she matter to me?” Harry asked to no one in particular.
“You’ll find out tonight,” Hermione said as she handed back the portfolio.
“Yippy,” Harry sighed. “What class do we have next?”
“Um, well, magic history,” Ron said sadly.
“Hate my life!” Harry sighed.
“No you don’t,” Hermione said sadly, “you’re just having a bad day.”
“Let’s go,” Harry said as he stood up.
They walked slowly out of the common room, their spirits low, but all with the same question on their minds, Who was Helena?

Chapter 21: A Midsummers night.
Brindalette walked quickly from the Great Hall and as she left her other two friends stood up and walked with her. They followed a few paces behind each other. Into the darkening halls of the school. They walked quickly and with a purpose. Never did any of them turn to speak to the other but they followed in the same way that seemed almost suspicious but they stayed far enough from each other that they didn’t catch anyone’s attention. As they went, it almost seemed like each one would follow a different path, each on heading in the direction of their respective house but they soon met up once more in a dark dungeon hallways and without speaking they followed each other to a passage that lead out into the grounds.
The charms around their necks began to glow as they walked out into the fresh night air. The stars were beginning to show in the sky as the moon began to raise beyond the lake and yet the girls did not say a word to each other. There was no fear in them that they would be seen walking across the grounds of the castle. Something protected them as they went.
The order of the phoenix patrolled the grounds and yet they did not see the girls that walked, briskly toward the dark forest. It was like they pass through the night air like fire flies all that could be see was the glow of their charms.
They past by the front door of Hagrid’s hut. Smoke rose from the chimney and the windows glowed brightly. From inside they could hear voices, the familiar voices of Harry, Ron and Hermione. But still they walked on into the dark forest.
Into the dark forest the past until they came to a clearing. In the middle of the clearing stood and old, thick, black tree. Its branches reached to the moon like great dead fingers. There were no leaves on this tree and yet it still looked strong and menacing. The branches waved in the breeze as the girls came nearer to it. The stopped together, in a semicircle, before the tree and the glow from their charms united. The light flew from them and at the tree. The little glowing light hit the tree with such force that the ground shook and the girls stepped back as the light ran up and around the tree. It spread in ribbons of light through the bark and up to the sky then back down again in a strange writing and symbol patter and finally the light settled in the outline of a door. Brindalette walked forward, toward the tree, and reached out for the golden handle that had appeared. She grasped it and pulled and the door opened. The three girls stepped into the tree and closed the door behind them and the light of their charms faded away leaving the tree as they had first found it.
In the tree there was a small room. Candles floated in the air much like in the great hall, lighting the small cozy place. In the middle of the room sat a low, triangular, table and all around the table were silk pillows. Along the walls were many books and rolls of parchment. Between the rows of books there were doors. There were no windows in this room but about six doors in total. Each door looked different from the next but the largest door was the one that the girls had entered through. The other looked to lead to different places. One was beautifully ornamented with roses and filagree covering most of its surface. Another had a large wooden angel carved into it. It looked like it was weeping. The one that was right across from the entrance was black as coal. There was no decorations on this door and it didn’t look like it opened at all. Another door was covered with goblins and gold writing and finally the last door looked like the night sky and was draped with theatrical curtains. Each of the girls took up a space at one side of the triangular table. It looked as if many generations had gathered in this place and finally the girls spoke to each other.
“Oh it is good to be back,” Rae said as she leaned back into the silk pillows.
“I don’t know how anyone can get anything done in that place. It is always so noisy, even in the library,” Ally said as she pulled her school work from her book bag.
“We have nearly everything we need here anyways,” Rae smiled.
“Well not everything and the library is very helpful for most things but in our cause we can get on pretty well here,” Ally said as she pulled their mother spell book from in her book bag.
“You know it was very close tonight, Moody was on patrol, he would have seen us,” Brindalette sighed, “we should probably limit our coming out here this year.”
“You really think Moody would see us?” Ally asked.
“It’s Mad Eye Moody,” Rae said, “he does see everything, I wouldn’t want to chance being caught by him.”
“Alright, then I suggest we only come out here when we know that Moody is not in the grounds,” Brindalette said as she reached into her book bag and pulled out a crystal ball, “show me the grounds,” she said as she rubbed her hands over the clear class. A rise of pink smoke gather within the crystal orb and soon the grounds of Hogwarts around the castle appeared and so did Mad Eye Moody and other members of the order of the phoenix. Moody was on his way toward Hagrid’s hut. When he arrived he knocked on the door and Hagrid led the three that had come to visit him out to Mad Eye who lead them away from the hut and back up to the castle, “well we wont have to worry about them later,” Brindalette said as she pushed the crystal ball to the center of the table for all to see, “I’ll continue to monitor Moody.”
“That is a good idea,” Ally said as she flipped pages and cross references her notes.
“Have you found out anything from Potter?” Rae asked as she placed a scroll of parchment on the table and a quick quote quill jumped to life as Brindalette began to speak again.
“I can’t tell you all of what they talk of. Sometimes it is complete nonsense and then other times its all in whispers. I believe that Hermione Granger is the brains of the operation. Ron Weasley is a goof I don’t know what good he is. As for Harry Potter he’s paranoid,” Brindalette said never taking her eyes off the crystal ball.
“I don’t blame him for being paranoid,” Ally said, “I mean wouldn’t you be if you were marked by the Dark Lord in such a way.”
“Are we not all marked by the Dark Lord?” Rae asked, “I mean once Potter is out of the way, do you not think he will come after us because of what we have done?”
“The mistress will not let him harm us,” Ally said as she flipped more pages in their mothers book.
“What makes you so certain,” Rae asked, “I don’t think her powers are that far reaching or our mothers would still be alive?”
“It was foretold that our mothers must perish,” Brindalette said.
“That’s is exactly what I mean,” Ally said, “we do not know if we’ve already been marked as Harry has been.”
“Well we can’t worry about that now, we have other things to deal with. Like finding out as much as we can about Potter and what he knows,” Brindalette said, “I believe him and his friends are a bit suspicious of me.”
“That would be understandable if they knew who you were,” Ally said as she flipped through another book.
“I agree,” Brindalette whispered, “but they are always so secretive I can’t stand it.”
“You haven’t heard them mention us?” Rae asked.
“No,” Brindalette sighed.
“Are you sure they know?” Ally asked.
“They know of R.A.B” Brindalette said, “but they don’t have a clue as to who we are.”
“We are safe for now,” Ally said, “now lets get down to business.”
“Alright, what do we know so far?” Rae asked, “aside from the fact that the snake is always with Lord Voldemort.”
“Well we know that he is a parseltounge and can speak to the snake.” Ally said as she looked over her notes, “I do believe he also has a name for her.”
“He named his pet snake. Oh that’s so cute,” Brindalette giggled, “what does he call her? Fluffy? Please say it’s Fluffy!”
“That would be so funny but it’s not Fluffy,” Ally laughed.
“Then what is it?” Rae asked.
“Its name is Nagini,” Ally said.
“Oh that’s a boring name,” Rae sighed.
“How are we going to find the snake?” Brin asked.
“Well that’s easy,” Rae joked, “we just have to find Voldemort.”
“Actually,” Ally said a little squeamishly, “we know where Voldemort is, he’s at the old Riddle house, same place that Cedric Digory died.”
“Right,” Rae said.
“So that’s it, we need to go there and battle it out with a Snake to get its head and stop the Horcrux,” Brin said, “but it can’t be that easy.”
“It wont be,” Ally said, “there are too many spells around that snake to just let us kill it. We’re going to need help.”
“And who are we going to get help from?” Brin asked.
“I think our best bet would be Potter,”Ally said.
“We can’t just tell him,” Rae said.
“No but we can get in to his DA club,” Brindalette said.
“Wont he be suspicious?” Ally asked.
“Not if we are really careful,” Brindalette smiled, “I’ll ask Dumbledore about it next time I am alone in the Gryffindor common room.”
“Good plan,” Ally said as she closed the book and packed it away in her bag, “I think that is our next step.”
“But can we trust him?” Rae asked as she looked from one of them to the other, “I mean, he is very much involved in aiding Harry Potter with everything. He is like the poster child for all that Dumbledore every believed in. Do you honestly think he will give you any information?” she asked.
“No,” Brin answered frankly, “I am not really in search of information. I am just wanting to practice Defense Against the Dark Arts and have heard rumor of a club.” she said and winked at her friends.
“I hope for our sake, that you are a very good actress,” Ally laughed and together the three of them walked out of their hiding place and into the beautiful evening breeze of the summer nights at the castle. Their charmed began to glow again as they exited the tree and quickly they made their way, without notice, back into the busy halls of the castle.

Chapter 23: A Giants Welcome.

Once supper had ended, Ron, Harry and, after much persuasion to leave the library for another day, Hermione had fled from the castle themselves and made their way down to Hagrid’s hut. The sun was setting now but the fresh air was what they all needed. Harry and Ron longed to pull out their brooms but they knew that a visit to Hagrid was in order considering they were unable to see him with all the excitement and strange occurrences of the start of term feast. They were met by Fang’s excited barking and a very jolly sounding Hagrid.
“I’d wondered how long it would take you three to come down here, even though you shouldn’t, I knew it would never stop you,” Hagrid said as he opened the door and welcomed them all in.
“You’ve come to know us to well,” Hermione said happily, “but we don’t know how often we’ll be able to visit with you this year, Hagrid,” she said sadly, “there is so much to be done.”
“Aye and if things get worse then they already are, you’ll not be aloud out of the castle at all,” he said as he placed the tea pot on the table, “so I am glad that you’ve come. To be honest I was afraid that after what happened last year you wouldn’t want to come back here. Lord knows I almost left.”
“You can’t be serious,” Ron said.
“This is the only home you’ve ever known Hagrid,” Hermione said.
“But without Dumbledore I was afraid it wouldn’t feel right. I mean some of the professors do respect me and I am grateful for that but other are not so keen on having a half giant on the faculty,” Hagrid said sadly, “but Professor McGonagall convinced me to stay. She is going to be a wonderful head mistress you know. Fair and firm just like Dumbledore. I am glad I stayed.”
“I nearly didn’t come back,” Harry said.
“Oh I don’t blame you, Harry,” Hargid said, “but I am glad you did. It’s going to be safest for you hear.”
“Yeah I guess,” Harry said, “but it’s not why I came back.”
“Course it’s not,” Hagrid laughed, “I was there when Dumbledore told McGonagall to write to you and make sure you came back. He’s got more information then he ever had before. Can get to a lot more places and talk to a lot of people that the living can’t talk to. I wouldn’t bet he’s got everything figured out as it should be so that you can beet you know who once and for all.”
“You really think so?” Hermione asked.
“Oh yeah, but you all didn’t hear this from me,” Hagrid winked, “he’s a brilliant man that Dumbledore. If I didn’t know better I would have thought that all this was planned long before any of us could have ever imagined it.”
“But what makes you think he will tell us anything?” Harry asked.
“Yeah, he is very good at keeping secrets,” Hermione said.
“What secrets does he have now?” Hagrid laughed, “nothing can hurt him now and you know one of his last wishes was that his portrait be hung all over the place. It’s in some of the strangest places and before he died, last year, apparently that is one of the things that he had been doing. Placing frames for his own portraits all over Britain.”
“Sounds a little vain to me,” Ron said as he sipped his tea.
“Aye, a little, but very smart too. He can be almost anywhere at any time,” Hagrid smiled, “he’s a brilliant man.”
“How come you don’t have a portrait of him?” Hermione asked, “he was such a father figure to you. I would think that he would have given you one.”
“Oh I have one,” Hagrid said and pointed to a small frame that hung on his fall between a portrait of his father and a crayon drawing that looked as if it was done by a two year old, “he hangs on my wall of favorite things. My father, and a drawing Grawp just recently done for me. He’s getting along well don’t you thinks. That’s me and him he says.”
“That’s so nice,” Hermione said trying to sound excited.
“Oh yeah, he’s become quite the affectionate one,” Hagrid smiles, “still doesn’t like strangers much.”
“So do you see Dumbledore often?” Harry asked still looking at the empty frame.
“Yeah, he pops in and out of his portrait now and then,” Hagrid smiles, “but you know, even in death, he’s a very busy man.”
“I can imagine,” Hermione said as they heard a soft rapping at the door.
“Who could that be at this time,” Hagrid said as he rose and opened the door, “ah Alister, nice to see you, come in, come in.”
“And you Hagrid,” Mad Eye Moody smiled, “but I can’t stay. I’ve been sent down here to bring those three back up to the castle.”
“But it’s not after curfew yet,” Ron said looking at his watch.
“No, do not worry Mr. Weasley,” Moody said, “you are not in trouble. Professor Dumbledore would like a few words with Miss Granger and yourself Mr. Weasley, and I believe Mr. Potter is expected elsewhere.”
“Yes that is true,” Harry sighed.
“Then we best be getting back,” Moody said and soon the three of them followed him out of Hagrid’s hut, but not before they promised to come back to visit very soon.

Chapter 25: Friend of Foe.

Harry walked quickly through the halls of the deserted castle. It was now after curfew and the halls seemed quieter then they had ever sounded before. None of the portraits hummed with the sound of the sleeping occupants. None of the students snuck out of their common rooms. The halls were empty and not even the members of the order could be heard in them. It was a silence far different from any silence he had ever heard before. It was the same silence that had fallen after Dumbledore had died, and yet it was a different silence. There wasn’t the weeping, only a stillness that seemed more fragile then anything Harry had ever encountered. It was an eery silence and as hard as he tried, Harry’s feet echoed of the stone walls. This noise seemed so out of place, as did everything else in the quiet halls and Harry longed to be away from it and back to the natural noise that always followed the students.
He held the folio tightly as he walked, closed to his body and though he didn’t quite understand what it all meant he was more certain then ever that it was something very important to everything. He hoped beyond anything that Helena would link everything together. That some how she was the missing link that he looked for. It was a far fetched idea but it was hope and that had been something Harry had scarcely allowed himself since he came to terms with his destiny.
His mind also wandered now and then as he walked through the halls and passed the portraits that hung ceremonial on almost all of the castle walls. He wished that he could see his parents following him through the portraits and for the first time, though he knew that somehow it had been possible, he was still very surprised. He scolded himself for some of the things he had said to them, even though they did not seem to be angry by any of his words. His father seemed very proud of him but there was still the image of his sobbing mother in his mind. He had never remembered her before, except for her scream that still haunted his dreams. He had hoped to one day hear joy in her voice as he had always imagined it, but their first meeting was not what he had expected. He wished it had been better but swore that the next time he would not allow there to be any tears.
He made his way quickly up to the sixth floor and to his surprise found that the door had already appeared. Nervously he looked from one end of the hall to the other and to the portraits that hung in this hall. Some still showed the damage of what had happened the previous year. The remains of curses that flew between the wizard left dark scorches on the stone wall and it pained Harry to remember what had happened and the silence that had fallen when all was over. It was the same silence that followed him now and he waited with horrified anticipation for the screams and the sobs that would break it. But they never came.
He was very hesitant as he reached out and grabbed the handle of the door. Something inside of him told him not to. It was to soon after what had happened. He had sworn to himself that he would never pass through this hallway, never seek out this door again but here he was by orders of his professors. It was a lot to take in and he was so very unsure of himself. He had surprised himself at just how frightened he was. His hand shook as he pulled open the door, afraid he would see what he had seen last year in the room of requirements.
Harry stepped through the door and as he did he noticed the great change that had occurred. All around him the windows that once lined the walls, when he had used the room for his DA meetings were gone and instead there were portraits that covered the walls. The strange thing about the portraits was they were all empty. Not a frame boasted the image of its inhabitant. Instead the dark back grounds and bookcases that covered the canvases were all that were visible to him.
He was a little confused by the change in the room. The clutter that had been there when he had seen it last year was also gone. There were no signs of any of the evil that had passed here and he wondered if ever the room would go back to what it had been. If he walked out of it right now would it change from what it was to what it had been if he willed it to be? A strange curiosity crossed his mind at that moment but faded as a sick sinking feeling took its place. Would not the professors of the school and the members of the Order have destroyed all the evidence of what had happened. He guess that, that would have been the case and was forced to put the idea from his mind.
He walked the length of the room, which seemed much smaller with no windows, and he marveled at the unity of the portraits. Ever single one seemed to be of exactly the same size and with exactly the same frame. The only thing that was different was the place where the portrait owner would have been painted. The only gimps of light was from windows or bright coloured back grounds and yet the room was not in complete darkness. Harry could make out the four walls and the door, but other then that it was a square box of a room. At the far end, however, there was a curtain, framed in gilded gold and thicker and bolder then any of the other frames that occupied the walls around it. It was about the size of a door and the curtain was a thick red fabric, almost like a velvet.
Harry walked slowly toward the frame. His invisibility cloak hung loosely around his shoulders now. The folio he held in his other hand and his wand was at the ready. The silence in the room was complete, even his shoes did not echo on the floor now.
“Hello?” he said, “is there anyone here?”
Suddenly the curtain parted and Harry stopped walking. A figure stepped out from behind the curtain and as it did a light fell from above, though there was no origins of the light, in a cone around the figure.
It was a woman’s form. She was short, with long hair that seemed to change its colour at every angle. She had a pleasing form, even enchanting, and she moved with a gentleness that seemed to put him at ease. She wore a school uniform and yet there was not a sign of what house she belonged to. An eery feeling came over him as he was suddenly filled with a sense that he should not trust anything that he saw. Placing himself in a way that he was ready to battle, he hardened his stance and thought he did not utter a word the end of his wand began to glow and yet the figure continued to come toward him.
“You must be the chosen one,” a sweet voice whispered and filled the space as it moved toward him.
“I prefer Harry,” He said, “and you must be Helena.”
“For now,” she whispered and still came closer.
She put out her hands to him. She was un armed and he lowered his wand.
“What do you mean, for now?” Harry asked.
“You will know in due time, you do not expect me to trust you upon our first acquaintance now do you?” she asked, “and so for now you will know me as Helena.”
“Ok,” Harry said feeling the confusion that he was sure his face was showing.
“Why have you come here?” she asked her eyes sparkling in the light.
“I was told to meet a professor here,” Harry said as he pulled out the letter.
“Yes, but why did you accept it?” Helena asked.
“Because they are helping me,” Harry said but questioned it himself.
“And you trust them when they tell you to break the school ruled?” she asked.
“I guess so,” Harry answered.
“You are too unsure, I cannot help you with anything,” Helena said abruptly and turned away from him and walked through the curtain.
“Wait,” Harry shouted and tried to follow her but as he reached the curtain he could not find where to part it and pass through to the other side, “what is going on?” Harry shouted angrily as he spun around.
Once again light erupted from the ceiling, falling in cones on the floor and causing round spots of light to make like a poka-dot pattern all around him.
The door at the end of the room opened and Tonks, along with Beck, Snape, and the rest of the Order of the Phoenix walked in.
“I am sorry to leave you so long,” Tonks said as she walked to him.
“It’s alright Professor,” Harry said as he tried to calm himself.
Tonks smiled for a moment then turned back to the rest of the Order, “will you please ready the space?” she asked Moody.
He nodded and with a wave of his wand the room was filled with a solid light, not just the strange cones and a long table and chairs appeared. With the light the portraits on the walls filled as well. Harry could see all kinds of people all around him. He recognized Dumbledore right away and very near to him he spotted his mother and father as well. But for the most part the people in the portraits he didn’t know.
Tonks motioned for everyone to sit as the door opened again and Professor McGonagall walked in and took the place at the head of the table. Harry was ushered to a spot at her right and Beck took the place at her left. McGonagall reached out and shook Beck’s hand and then turned to Harry.
“It is good to see you Mr. Potter,” She smiled and held out her hand.
“And you as well Professor,” Harry said a little shakily but shook her hand.
“Welcome everyone,” McGonagall said as she motioned for everyone to sit, “I believe this should be enlightening,” she added as she sat down and looked to Harry once more, “Harry,” she said once everyone had grown quiet, “there are a few things you must know, on this your last year here at Hogwarts. We, and by we I mean the order of the Phoenix, are vowed to aid you in any way you may need. This place,” she said and motioned around the room, “though it may hold very negative memories for you, it is meant just for you and your cause. To everyone else it is but the room of requirements and will take on the form of what ever they need it for, but for you, you will always have this place as a place where you will find us.”
“You will always be here?” Harry asked confused.
“Someone from the order,” McGonagall said, “there are portraits for each of us that are direct links to offices, and there are portraits of very important and influential members of the order that you know have passed on,” she added and motioned to Dumbledore’s portrait, “whenever you have any questions or may need information you will be permitted to come to this place at any time.”
“So long as you pass through the halls unseen,” Beck added with a wink.
“I can do that,” Harry said, “but why are you allowing me to break the rules?” he asked.
“Because it is imperative that you are as prepared as you can be if you are to do good,” Tonks said, “we are all very determined to help you in anything you may need and my fellow Aurors and I plan to use all of our expertise to help and train you for anything.”
“Thank you, Professor,” Harry said, “but what about my friends? They are in just as much danger as I am.”
“You may bring whom ever you choose here,” Beck said, “provided you are not breaking to many rules by doing so. We would be pleased if you had a chaperone if you are going to do anything after curfew, but otherwise you can bring whom ever you choose to this place.”
“We would also like to have a weekly meeting with you, and if you feel it is important, Hermione and Ron,” McGonagall said, “they may be involved in the meetings as well. As for your Defense Against the Dark Arts club, we would be more then happy to encourage you to run it and if you need any help at all the aurors as well as your professors would be more then happy to help you.”
“I will talk to Hermione and Ron and see what would be a good time,” Harry said after he was silent for a moment, “then I will tell you when we will have practices and I would be more then happy to have anyone that would like to come and help.”
“That sounds splendid,” Beck said, “allow me to give you my full support. I would, indeed, like to take on that club.”
“Then it is settled,” McGonagall said, “Professor Beck will be your official advisor for the DA.”
“Ok,” Harry said.
“Do you have any other concerned,” McGonagall asked, “I know this was short notice and a bit of an unorganized attempt but in the weeks to come I am sure you will be able to establish a list of concern or questions you may have for everyone.”
“Um, I guess first of all, I would like to know how I can get access to the restricted section of the library,” Harry said thinking instantly of Hermione, “it would be of great use for research.”
With a wave of her wand, parchment and a quill were on the table before McGonagall, “I am going to assume that you would like Miss Granger to have the access,” she smiled and wrote out the permission form.
“Yes,” Harry said and coloured a little.
“Is there anything else?” Beck asked.
“Yes,” Harry said as he put the portfolio on the table, “why was I given this?” he asked.
“Ah, did you not meet Helena?” Beck smiled.
“I did, but I think I offended her,” Harry said.
“What did you say?” Beck asked.
“She asked me why I came here?” Harry said, “I told her because I was told to and she came to the conclusion I was indecisive and that I was wasting her time, I guess.”
“Ah yes,” Beck chuckled, “that does sound like her. No worries you will see her again in this place. Just make sure you know why you want to see her.”
“Is she really to be trusted?” Harry asked.
“We’ll find out I suppose,” Beck said as he shrugged his shoulders, “there is still much to know about her.”
“Like what?” Harry asked.
“If I knew that I would tell you,” Beck said.
Harry was growing angry now by the lack of information and seriousness he was feeling from the group.
“Is there anything else Harry?” Dumbledore asked from his portrait on the wall.
“I guess,” Harry said. He looked around the room hesitantly for a moment and then speaking to Dumbledore in almost a whisper he said, “is there anymore information and the ‘you know what’?”
“Ah, the horcruxes,” Dumbledore laughed, “don’t worry Harry, everyone in this place knows about them now and we are all working to locate and understand them.”
“So what do we know?” Harry asked the people at the table.
“Well for one we know that four are destroyed,” Moody said.
“Four,” Harry asked, “how do we know that?”
“Well Dumbledore took care of Slytherins ring and you took care of the diary,” Moody said, “our sources tell us that two others have been located and destroyed by a group out side of the order.”
“Do they go by the initial, R.A.B?’ Harry asked.
“Yes, though there have been two groups that we know of that have gone by those same letters, which means there could be more then one group looking as we are looking,” Remus Lupin said.
“And we know nothing more about RAB?” Harry asked.
“We have a few leads, but nothing concrete can be found in the ministry, we hope that Hogwarts may unearth something a little more substantial,” Moody said.
“Alright, well I hope it does,” Harry sighed, “what about the rest of the Horcruxes, how many are there?”
“We are sure now that he indeed made seven,” Remus said, “though I don’t know how he could have divided his soul into so many piece.”
“What are they?” Harry asked.
“We believe that he has made Ravenclaw’s spectacles into one,” Tonks said, “they went missing years ago from the ministry. We believe that the worker charged with the theft was under the imperious curse and was working for Tom Riddle at the time.”
“Also we believe that he keeps a snake and thought it is uncommon, we believe that he has made a living creature into a horcruxes as well,” Beck said, “which would give us some indication as to why his appearance has become so reptile like. He is becoming one with the snake.”
“And last, and this is the most vague,” Moody said, “is the belonging ring.”
“The belonging ring?” Harry asked.
“Yes, it is the name that Voldemort has given the final horcrux and it was the last to be created before Voldemort lost his powers to you,” Moody said, “but that is all that is know about it.”
“I am devoting much of my time to said ring,” Dumbledore said, “I am hoping to find something berried in the minds of some of the dead.”
“Alright, and I will put my focus on the spectacles,” Harry said.
“Why would you not go after the snake?” Snape asked, “you already know it is Nagini.”
“Yes, but Voldemort keeps Nagini with him at all times,” Harry said, “and I want to put off meeting up with him until we can guarantee that all the horcruxes can be destroyed.”
“That is a smart plan,” McGonagall said, “what good is Harry if he faces off with Voldemort too soon.”
“He’s faced him before,” Snape said.
“He got lucky,” Remus said angrily.
“What if Voldemort has gathered the Horcruxes to him?” Snape asked, “he knows that we are after them.”
“It defeats the purpose of splitting your soul and hiding it,” Moody said, “I believe he thinks he has a lot of time before we find the last three. And I believe he is confident that no one will come after Nagini.”
“Good point,” McGonagall said, “not to mention he is planning something.”
“Do we have any idea of what?” Harry asked.
“Not yet,” Beck answered, “Sirius Black is working on it.”
“Sirius?” Harry asked as he spun around and looked to the portraits on the wall. There in a frame beside his mother and father stood Sirius, looking handsome and strong. Older then Harry had seen him in the pensieve but he looked way better then the last time Harry had seen him.
“Yes,” Beck said, “he has access now to many of the darkest wizard families.”
“Finally it is paying off to be a Black,” Sirius said and Harry could hear his father laugh at Sirius’ joke.
“Alright,” McGonagall said after a moments silence, “is there anything else Harry?”
“No,” he said with a sigh.
“What’s the matter Harry,” Tonks asked as she watched him close the portfolio.
“I want to know when am I supposed to have time for school work, quiddich, extra lessons with Professor Snape, the DA club and this,” he sighed again and pulled the invisibility cloak up around his shoulder once more, “I guess I just wont sleep.”
“I know this is a lot for you,” McGonagall said, “that is why we are hear.”
“And I do appreciate it,” Harry said, “thank you.”
“You are welcome,” she answered.
“Can I go now?” he asked looking very tired and disappointed.
“Yes,” McGonagall said and they all turned and watched as Harry pulled the door open and pull the cloak over his head. The door shut slowly behind him.
The assembly around the table began to disburse and chatted to each other as they began to leave the room. Some hung back chatting with the portraits before heading off to their regular duties in the castle.
“Do you think it’s to much for him?” Snape asked as he walked up to the portrait of James and Lily.
“No, it builds character,” James said.
“He’s just a boy,” Lily said as she looked at her husband.
“And you never had to deal with anything as dangerous as he is now so how would you know it builds character?” Snape said, “you have no idea what hard work really is. Harry is in for it.”
“What are you saying?” James asked angrily.
“I’m saying that I know he doesn’t have your work ethic and it might be that difference that keeps him alive,” Snape said, “I think everyone has come to the conclusion that he will die but when and how is the question.”
“I know of no prophecy stating anything of the kind,” James said.
“I’ve heard rumor of one,” Snape said, “a very vague one at least.”
Lily gasped.
“Will you watch out for him?” James asked.
“I have to, I have no choice,” Snape sighed angrily, “it’s been foretold.”
“Thank you Severus,” James said lowering his eyes.
“That’s the first time you’ve ever thanked me for anything,” Snape said and walked away from the portrait.

Chapter 27: strange girl behaviour
Harry doddled around the great hall for a half hour as he picked through the remains of what was left for breakfast. Dobby scurried around him with clearing away dirty dishes and speaking nonsense as he ate. None of the other house elves would come near Harry, but Dobby would work on no matter who was present.
“Dobby is so happy to see Harry Potter back at Hogwarts. Dobby was worried he would never see Harry Potter again after what happened to Dumbledore,” Dobby said as he jumped up on the bench beside Harry.
“I am happy to see you too Dobby,” Harry smiled, “why did you stay here?”
“Because Hogwarts is the best place for Dobby and his friends. Dumbledore was very kind and generous to Dobby and the rest of us. He gave us all things and beds and gold for working here.”
“And the rest of the house elves accepted things from Dumbledore?” Harry asked.
“Not at first no, they had thought they had been bad house elves and were crying and unhappy and wanted so very badly to stay in the castle but that was not what Dumbledore meant by giving things to Dobby and his friends. He meant to make us more happy and we all are. First he gave us better housing. We have beds and pillows now to make our nests in and it is warm and we have fires to keep warm by. Then he gave uniforms to the house elves to wear that all said Hogwarts on them. Some of the other elves were confused by the new items because by giving us clothing he would set us free but because of the words that linked us to Hogwarts we had to stay. Then he started giving gold and items that elves want to put in nests and keep as treasures to keep us all here,” Dobby said, “Dobby feels very lucky to be working at Hogwarts because now with Professor McGonagall, what Dumbledore was doing is being carried out for all of us. We are happier and work harder and are loyal. And more elves come all the time. It is known as a refuge now for elves.”
“That is so nice to hear,” Harry smiled as he finished his food, “Hogwarts is one of the best places in the world.”
“Oh the best, the best indeed,” Dobby shouted, “Dobby is the luckiest elf in the world to be here, lucky, lucky, lucky.”
“Oh I guess I should go to class,” Harry said as he looked at his watched and then looked to the windows of the great hall.
“Yes, yes, Harry Potter must go to class,” Dobby said, “and Dobby must clean the hall so that it is ready for lunch.”
“Alright, then I will leave you to your cleaning,” Harry said as he stood from his place and pulled his book bag over his shoulder.
“Yes, good, good and Dobby will leave Harry Potter to his learning,” Dobby said and waved at Harry, “good bye Harry Potter,” he called after him.
“Good bye Dobby,” Harry laughed and waved back to the little elf.
Harry walked quicky to the green houses and found Neville and Ron standing in the line for their next class. It was a beautiful day and even though the green houses were already open to the students, Professor Sprout was nowhere to be found and so they remained in the yard to enjoy the sunshine.
“Well look who finally got out of bed!” Ron laughed, “late night eh?”
“Oh yeah,” Harry laughed, “very.”
“What was it all about,” Neville asked.
“Everything and nothing all at the same time,” Harry answered.
“Did you see your parents?” Ron asked, “they were with Dumbledore when we got back from out cookie hunt and then they left with him for some secret meeting of great importance.”
“It couldn’t have been that important,” Neville said, “or else he wouldn’t have laughed and winked at us before he left.”
“Yeah, I saw them,” Harry answered, “they were at my meeting.”
“They do get around,” Ron said with a sigh, “but you would have thought that they would have come to see you sooner. Do you think they meant to stay away?”
“Yes,” Harry said sadly, “I’m not sure why.”
“Well that’s just rude,” Ron said.
“They much have had their reason,” Neville said softly.
“I’m sure they did,” Harry said and shrugged his shoulders.
“Where’s Hermione?” Ron asked after a long silence between the three of them.
“I haven’t seen her,” Harry said as he reached into his pocket, “I have something for her.”
“Sure you get her presents,” Ron sighed, “but what do I get?”
“You get to play keeper for the Gryffindor quiddich team and Hermione gets into the restricted section of the library,” Harry said, “what would you rather have.”
“Quiddich!” Ron said happily, “when do we start?”
“As soon as I can get the team together,” Harry smiled.
“There you are!” Hermione said as she ran up to them, “I have been looking all over for you.”
“We’ve been right here waiting for you,”Ron said as he watched Ginny and Luna come up to Hermione.
Ginny whispered in Hermione’s ear as Luna reached into her book bag and stuffed something into Hermione’s.
“no you haven’t!” Hermione said impatiently, “I’ve already come here looking for Harry and you were not here.”
“Well we have been here quite a while,” Neville said softly, “how long ago were you here.”
“Only minutes ago,” Ginny said before she grabbed Luna by the arm and pulled her away.
“Were you using a time turner?” Ron whispered.
“Absolutely not!” Hermione said angrily, “I told you I would never use one again.”
“Then you must have missed us or didn’t see us,” Ron said.
“No,” Hermione said angrilly, “you were not here.”
“But we were,” Harry said trying not to sound annoyed.
“What would you know anyway?” Hermione practically yelled and stormed off.
“Where is she going?” Ron asked.
“Class starts in minutes, do you think she would really miss the first class?” Neville asked nervously.
“It’s not like her,” Harry sighed.
“She’s gone berserk,” Ron huffed, “we’ve been here the whole time.”
“Yeah and what was up with the other two?” Harry asked.
“Not a clue,” Ron said, “girls are so strange. If I didn’t like them so much I would swear them off all together.”
Hermione didn’t return to the class that day. Professor Beck had come to the class minutes after the class had started and asked that Hermione be excused on account of a project she had undertaken for him. He stated that she would return for the following class and that it would not happen again. It was clear to many of the students present in the class that Professor Sprout rather fancied Professor Beck and so she remained giggly and completely compliant until Beck left, then she was back to her strict normal self.
Brindalette and walked in nearly unnoticed after Harry, Ron and Neville and when she noticed that Hermione had not joined their table and saw that there were two empty seats she settled in with them.
“I hope you boys don’t mind me joining you for Herbology,” Brindalette whispered as Professor Sprout started, “you are the only other Gryffindors in the room.”
It was a true observation but Brindalette was never one to hang out with the Gryffindors on a regular basis. She seemed to prefer the company of the Ravenclaws or the Hufflepuffs, to anyone else and there were plenty of those students in the herbology greenhouse, but the boys didn’t protest and she settled in between Harry and Neville.
“I don’t mind,” Neville said as he pulled his gloves on and offer her a pair as well.
“And you?” she asked Ron and Harry.
“It’s fine with me so long as you understand that I am a slacker and I will entrust you with as much work as possible,” Ron said as he leaned back in his chair.
“I can handle that,” Brindalette giggled, “I do consider myself rather good at all this plant stuff,” she added.
“Not as good as Neville I bet,” Ron said, “he’s got the greenest thumb I have ever seen.”
“Hence why I would want to be seated with the smartest person in the class,” Brindalette said as she winked and Neville and he blushed.
“What about Hermione?” Harry asked as he looked around again, “you heard Beck she’s got an excuse today but what about next week?”
“There’s another chair,” Ron said as he pointed across the table, “besides we are now grouped with the smartest in the class, do you know how great this will be for our marks.”
“You can’t copy everything,” Neville sighed.
“No, we don’t plan to copy,” Ron stated, “we only hope that you are prepared to tutor when it comes down the end of term and the NEWTs exams and we don’t know what the hell is going on.”
“Speak for yourself Ron,” Harry said, “I plan to pay attention this year.”
“When will you find time?” Ron laughed, “you are going to need just as much help as me!”
“Will you four settle down?” Professor Sprout shouted from the front of the class.
“Yes ma’am,” all four of them answered.
“That wouldn’t have happened if Hermione was here to put a charm on the table to stop her from hearing,” Ron huffed.
“Here,” Brindalette said and with a wave of her want that was sheltered by her gloves she blocked the Professor from hearing them.
“She can stay,” Ron said as he leaned back again.
“Thank you Ron,” Brindalette smiled.
“No problem,” he answered as Professor Sprout moved off into the class and the rest of the students started work on the knobby plant that was placed in front of them, “did you get all that, Neville?” he asked as he pulled on his gloves.
“Aye,” Neville frowned, “but I can’t handle this plant?”
“Why not?” Harry asked as he broke out of his train of thought and rejoined the conversation.
“Because it only likes to be handled by women,” Neville said and fell back into his chair.
“Well I guess it is good you sat with us after all,” Harry said to Brindalette and sat back and watched and she proceeded to handle the harvesting of the knobby plants buds and leaves. She then passed them on to the boys to milk or dry and they continued on in easy conversation for the remainder of the class.
As it ended Brindalette hurried off with her friends who had come to meet her and Harry and Ron made their way to the great hall, once again, for lunch. They found Hermione waiting for them and looking rather annoyed as she drummed her fingers on the table top.
“There you are,” she said.
“Class just finished. Where were you?” Harry asked.
“Trying to do some research and preparing something important for Professor Beck,” Hermione said.
“If it has to do with the DA,” Harry whispered across the table, “I already know.”
“How could you?” Hermione asked in astonishment.
“I told him to go to you,” Harry laughed, “I can’t take every last one of the responsibilities around here. I need help!”
“Who told you that?” Ron asked sarcastically, “you are the chosen one. You are going to win on sheer luck!”
“Don’t joke, Ron, this is very serious,” Hermione said as she reached into her book bag and pulled out a wad of cloth and unwrapped it to show Harry, “I’ve been trying to get the coins to work again but I can’t make them disguise themselves against all of the new charms and curses that are on the castle. Ginny and Luna have been helping me round up all the coins that I had given out and have been asking the people that still have the coins if they are willing to participate in the DA still. Many are very interested as they are sick of just sitting around and doing nothing. I suppose fear does that to people and after a while everyone just going to want to act on it but I still think we should exercise some discretion on how many and who are admited into the DA. What do you think Harry?” she asked.
“That’s is up to you and Professor Beck,” Harry stated, “I will be there to work and to learn and to teach. Aside from that I can’t worry about it with everything else that I have going on,” he said.
“What else did you learn at the meeting,” Hermione asked as she leaned across the table and whispered, “do they know anything else about the Horcruxes?”
“Yes,” Harry said, “they are almost certain they know what they all are.”
“Are they going to be easily found?” Ron asked.
“Well one is,” Harry answered.
“What is it?” Ron asked excitedly, “I can’t wait to get into this, it sounds like such an adventure.”
“Voldemort’s pet snake is one of them,” Harry said.
“Nagini?” Hermione gasped.
“Yes,” Harry said.
“Alright, I am not so excited now!” Ron sighed.
“What else do you know about the Horcruxes?” Hermione asked.
“Not much,” Harry said, “that’s another bit of searching I am not looking forward too and I have no idea when I will find the time.”
“If only I could get into the right books in the library,” Hermione said, “I am sure we could find something in there.”
“Would this help?” Harry asked as he handed her the permission slip and watched as her eyes grew wide as she read it.
“How did you get this?” she practically screamed.
“I asked for it,” Harry said.
“And they just gave it to you?” she asked.
“Oh yeah,” Harry said sounding bored, “anything that will help in the cause. I told them you were the person that would know where to look. So Professor McGonagall had no problems giving you access to all of the restricted books you will need to look into.”
“I love you!” Hermione said as she jumped up from her seat and ran off out of the great hall.
“What is going on?” Ron sighed, “is she literally going mad?”
“More like mad for literature,” Harry laughed
“She is far to excited by books,” Ron added, “something must be wrong with that girl.”
“She needs to get out more,” Harry said in agreement.
“Women are so weird,” Ron said with his mouth full of food.
“Yes they are,” Harry added and began to eat himself, “but she’ll find what we are looking for.”
“And we wont have to do any work!” Ron smiled.
“Only the really hard work when she finds out what we are looking for,” Harry said.
“And the battling it out with another giant snake,” Ron sighed, “you better see if you can get Gryffindor’s sword back.”
“Oh that’s a good idea,” Harry said, “I’ll have to ask for that at the next meeting.”
“You are having more?” Ron asked.
“Oh yes, once a week,” Harry said, “and next week you and Hermione get to come.”
“Don’t tell her till closer to the meeting,” Ron said, “she’ll sucker us both into millions of hours in the library if she knows she needs to look smarter at the meeting.”
Harry laughed and finished his lunch. He knew what Ron was saying was merely for fun but at the same time it was true. And sooner or later they would all have to give up the care free mood and turn to a more serious nature, but for now he had only to worry about quiddich and when he and Ron had finished, they rushed off in search of the Gryffindors team.

Chapter 29: Push to Act.
With a very open mind Harry left his lesson with Professor Snape. He never thought he would learn so much in a short time and though there was a dread of returning he knew he would have to. Snape had for the first time really put things into persective. It was no longer about just defeating the Dark Lord, Harry and his friends would have to outwit him as well and to do so he would need all the lessons and all the experience he could get. This would be the one thing, though he knew that Voldemort had an army, he did not trust anyone and this, Harry knew, would be the one thing that would help him to prevail. For the first time he realised that he was not alone in all of this and he was glad to see that his friends would stand up with him and work for the greater good of wizard kind. Never before had he ever though of his professors not as above him but as equals and, though he would have never admited it before, he realised that his best ally was someone he had despised for a very long time.
For the first time Harry had rather enjoyed a lesson with Snape, an understanding and a sense of trust had been formed there for the first time. He knew better then to push his luck with Snape and he would never see a preferential treatment that the Slytherin students had seen from their house master but he knew that Snape was the one person that would be able to lead him in the right direction when it came down to breaking up Voldemort’s power. Harry was even guilty and remorseful for the fate that Snape would ultimately face. Harry had never before liked Snape but he knew that he would never wish upon him any serious harm, but to know of his being marked, as his parents had been, brought a great dread and quilt to Harry’s heart and mind. The most frightening though, however, was what was Voldemort planning. He could no longer rely on the Horcruxes so he would have to find another way to live forever.
He was almost more worried now about what was to be Voldemort’s new plan then how they would locate the last horcruxes and destroy them. The potions surrounding the horcruxes were very complicated and took a long time to brew, as Harry had learned that morning but they were breakable and there were other potions that Professor Snape had been working on that would possibly cure many of the illnesses or counteract a lot of the curses that Voldemort would use. Snape had sent him away with many loose sheets of parchment and potions he had developed, to become familiar with and with Snape’s help the brewing of the potions were clearer to understand. Harry had learned more in one lesson with Snape then he had ever learned in a potions class before, even though it was with the same professor he was almost shocked at the changes that had occurred in Snape.
The one thing now, to set Hermione’s mind to, would be to figure out what Voldemort was planning. Harry would plant the idea in Hermione’s head and she would be off to comb the resources at her disposal in the library and he would be left to quiddich as he so very wished to get into.
Harry reached the common room to find Hermione curled in an arm chair her nose in a book and Ron and Ginny, already dressed in quiddich gear and playing wizard chess.
“You look surprisingly unscathed,” Ginny said as Harry walked in, “how was it.”
“Really good actually,” Harry smiled.
“Why are your hands gold?” Ron asked.
“Oh it’s a repelling potion that Snape devised that makes it easier to handle delicate things so that gloves do not get in the way,” Harry answered, “it should come off easily he says, when it stops repelling water.”
“And when will that happen?” Hermione asked excitedly as she dropped her book and ran to Harry and looked at his hands.
“In a few hours,” Harry said.
“What about quiddich, is it going to repel everything?” Ron asked.
“No,” Harry said, “I’ll be wearing gloves then!”
“I am shocked that you enjoyed a lesson with Snape,” Ginny said as she walked over and felt his forehead, “are you feeling alright?”
“Yes,” Harry laughed, “I am fine, it was very enlightening and I have a pile of work to get done before next Sunday but I did find out a lot.”
“Like what?” Hermione asked as she walked back to her chair and the book she had left there.
“Like how the Horcruxes are made, and how to destroy them once we’ve found them,” Harry said.
“I was just reading about that,” Hermione said happily, “it was the first book I found in the restricted section.”
“Well learn as much as you can about them because now that I have a general knowledge of them I am not going to be bothering with them,” Harry said.
“Why not, isn’t that the goal?” Ron asked.
“No, there are more important things to worry about right now,” Harry said, “and Snape is going to prepare me for them. But I have something different for you Hermione.”
“What is it?” she asked as she put the book down again.
“Voldemort knows he can’t rely on the Horcruxes forever, so he is planning another way around the living forever thing. Can you look into it?” Harry asked.
“Where do I start?” Hermione sighed.
“Eternal life, I suppose,” Harry said, “we already know about the horcruxes and about the philosophers stone so you can leave those out. But maybe there is something else out there that is so recluse that we would never otherwise hear about it.”
“I’ll do my best,” Hermione said as she stuffed her book into her bag and began to leave, “I guess I have nothing better to do while you are all off playing quiddich,” she sighed.
“As soon as Quiddich practice is over, I will join you in the library,” Harry said to her as she looked down trod, “there is a lot I need to talk to you about because I know you will understand it and take it seriously. I am not supposed to share this with anyone but I trust you so I am leaving it with you,” he said and slipped the parchments from Snape into her book bag.”
“What are they?” she asked.
“Potions,” Harry smiled, “really good ones.”
“And what am I to do after quiddich?” Ron asked felling left out.
“Do you want to spend your evening in the library?” Harry asked.
“Not really,” Ron said honestly.
“Then we shall put you to another task,” Harry said as he reached into his book bag and pulled out a list of plants and minerals that he had been given, “you can get Neville to help you gather these up for me.
“What are they for?” Ron asked looking at the list a little confused.
“For potions, apparently Hagrid will have most of them and the rest are just ready with Professor Sprout. There is a note from Professor Snape to get the ingredients,” Harry said.
“Alright, this will be better then sitting around in the library,” Ron sighed, “I hope Neville doesn’t mind the leg work.”
“He wont,” Hermione said, “he loves plants.”
“And what am I to do?” Ginny asked looking just as cast down as Ron.
“You need to convince who ever you can that the DA is a good thing and that we need as many people as we can to fight. It’s a noble cause but a dangerous one,” Harry said, “it is more important then ever that we all be very, very prepared for what is to come.”
“Alright,” Ginny smiled, “I can do that. Plus I will distribute more of your coins Hermione, now that they are working.”
“That is a fantastic idea,” Hermione said as she reached into her book bag and pulled out a velvet bag and handed it to Ginny. She then turned back to Harry and with a confused look asked, “I need to know Harry, why this sudden change of heart toward everything?”
“Because there is some hope,” Harry smiled, “and it took me long enough to find it. I am ready to accept whatever comes my way now. Besides, we are going to need something to present to the Order tomorrow when we attend the meeting.”
“I wish we could all go,” Ginny sighed.
“I am going to make a point of asking that you all be aloud,” Harry said finally, “I need everyone to be in the loop with this, or else it just isn’t going to work.”
“I agree with you there,” Hermione said.
“Thanks,” Harry smiled, “and now I need to get ready for Quiddich,” and with that he ran up the stair of the dormitory to get ready.