The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Part 9

Graduations and Reunions

Harry did not sleep well since her first meeting of the Order of the Phoenix. She was restless at night and kept waiting for word that Voldemort had returned, but none was forthcoming. She wanted desperately to know that the legend was just that, but every time she saw Dumbledore, he looked older and more worn. So much so, that she had taken to working on advanced Potions with the Snapes even harder than ever. She wanted to pass the Potion Master's exam in the spring, not to show Severus that she could do it, but to make Dumbledore proud of her. She was also studying Latin and had made an interesting discovery in a book on advanced Transfiguration. Sirius, Harry, and Professor McGonagall were animagi, each able to transform into a different animal. However, Harry discovered that there was also such a thing as an Animagimultiplico. This was an animagus with the ability to transform into more than one animal. It was extremely rare, as was her ability to turn into a phoenix, and she wondered if she could do more than one animal. Resolving to keep her mind off her worry about Voldemort, she decided that this would be a good way to do it. She would choose an animal and start trying to transform. The book had said that the most advanced animagimultiplico had been Merlin. She also resolved to improve her telekinesis, much to Phaedra's delight, and would practice at the breakfast table. Dumbledore allowed her to do so, under the pretense of using her ability as a reserve Auror.

This had been going on for the past three weeks, and today was the day she would be graduating from Hogwarts. She was happy and excited and knew that after today, she would be able to do any form of magic without having to ask permission. The ceremony was scheduled for eleven o'clock, and Sirius had planned a party afterwards, on the Hogwarts grounds, for Harry and her friends. All their families had been invited along with Sirius grandmother, and her namesake, his cousin Andromeda with her husband, Ted Tonks. They would be there for Draco, along with Nymphadora, who would actually be working as part of the security team. Sirius had also hinted that she was going to be very happy afterwards, and she wondered if he was up to something, as her birthday was in another week.

All the graduation robes were white, and each was trimmed in the colors of the house each student had been in, but they all now bore the Hogwarts Crest rather than that of the individual's house. Harry was graduating third in her class, tied with her old rival, Draco Malfoy. Hermione, of course, was graduating first, and Ron was fifth. The second place went to a boy named Phillip Thistlebush, a Ravenclaw, who would give the welcoming speech, and fourth place had been awarded to Marilyn Bloodroot, a chubby little Hufflepuff. They would both be sharing several awards with Harry and her friends, although they were not permitted to know exactly what awards they would receive until the actual graduation.

Ron's father, Arthur Weasley, who had just been named permanent Minister of Magic, was to make the presentation of the Awards, along with Professor Dumbledore. Hermione had been practicing her Valedictorian speech for the past week, and Harry and Ron probably knew it better than she did. They were both glad that after today they would not have to hear it anymore, and had lost count of how many times she had made them listen to it. Ron also had a special present for Hermione, and Harry had helped him to select it. The sun was shining, and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. It was a perfect summer day, and while warm, there was a slight breeze. Overall, the day was shaping up to be one she would always remember, and she determined to put her worries aside for a few hours, and enjoy this last day as a student with her friends.

Harry had just finished donning her robes and was fixing her hair into a French braid when Phaedra bounced into the room, all excited.

"Miss Harry, you look so pretty. Are you going to wear your glasses?"

"Do you think I should?" Harry asked, enjoying the child's scrutiny of her features.

Phaedra screwed up her face in a thoughtful frown, before answering, "No! I love your pretty green eyes, and so does Uncle Severus. I want you to wear the little round lenses you can put in them."

"You mean my contact lenses?"

"If that is what they are called, yes. You should be the prettiest girl at the graduation today," she said flopping on the bed, ignoring the fact she too was in formal robes.

"Okay, then I will wear them, but I think there will be prettier girls there than me, and don't let your mum see you wrinkling your robes! She will yell if she catches you on the bed like that."

"Humph, I wanted to wear the pretty pink dress you gave me, but mummy says it is too small now. She had me wear this green one and my dress robes."

"I got you that dress last year, and you have grown, so she is probably right. How about if I buy you another pink dress and you can wear it at the next party?"

"Would you? Oh, thank you Miss Harry. I love you!" Phaedra exclaimed, flinging her arms around Harry's neck.

"I love you too, Phaedra," Harry smiled, realizing it was true. "Now help me to pick out some jewelry to wear while I pop in my lenses."

"I think you should wear these pretty pearls, Phaedra told her, studying the items Harry had in the small jewelry box on her dresser, "and the pretty red ring with the Dragon that Mummy and Uncle Severus gave you for your last birthday."

"All right then, I will," Harry said, taking the items from the box. "Did you know that Mr. Sirius bought me these pearls when I was born? He saved them for when I was old enough to wear them. I think they are one of my most special possessions."

"Why?"

"Because if he had not gotten out of prison, I never would have received them. He gave them to me the first Christmas we were together after he was cleared of my parents' betrayal and murder, when everyone found out I was really a girl," Harry explained clasping the pearls around her neck.

"Do you think Uncle Severus will ever give me special pearls?"

"I'll bet he does," Harry replied, making a mental note to tell him to do so when Phaedra was a few years older. "Now hand me the ring, and I will have on something from both of them."

Phaedra did as she was told, and Harry placed the ring on her right hand. She immediately felt its power and knew that trouble was coming. The ring locked onto her finger again, and would help to warn her of danger, as it had in the past.

"Do you have anything from Mr. Remus?"

"Hmm...Not really, he doesn't usually give me jewelry. It doesn't seem right somehow that I have something on from Sirius and your Uncle Severus but not Remus," she frowned sadly.

"Wait here," Phaedra bounced up, "I have an idea." She ran from the room, and Harry could hear Circe yelling at her to calm down and not wrinkle her robes before they even got to Hogwarts.

Harry waited patiently, donning some eye makeup suitable for the afternoon, and studying her reflection in the mirror. Her hair was pulled back, but her bangs were covering her scar. She knew she looked like her father, but was thinner, and of course, her features were feminine. She was most definitely a Potter, but loved the way her mother's green eyes complimented her dark hair. She didn't think she was beautiful though, she was too short, and didn't have the olive skin that she always associated with exotic and beautiful looking women. Nevertheless, she did realize that men found her attractive, and for the life of her, she did not know why. She wasn't ugly, but she didn't have any features she felt you could call outstanding, unless you counted the scar, and that, in her opinion, actually marred her face. 'All those years spent acting as a boy, you would have thought I should have learned a thing or two about how they think,' she considered, shaking her head. Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of Phaedra coming back upstairs at a run.

"Miss Harry, I have something for you from Mr. Remus. I told him you felt bad 'cause you had on something from Mr. Sirius and Uncle Sev, but you didn't have anything from him. He did some special magic and asked me to give you this," Phaedra beamed, pulling her hands out from behind her back, displaying a wrist corsage of red and yellow roses to match her house colors. "I hope I didn't crush it."

"Oh," Harry half-sobbed, "it's beautiful."

"Miss Harry, why are you going to cry?"

"Sometimes people start to cry when they are really happy. Remus made this for me, so I wouldn't feel sad that I had nothing to wear from him, and now I do," she explained taking the corsage and putting it on her left wrist. "Now I think I'm ready. Let's go downstairs since it is almost time to leave," Harry said, placing her wand in her robes. "We are going to apparate to Hogwarts."

"I know, I am going with Uncle Severus. I like when we do it, it's fun. When will I be able to apparate?"

"Not till you're eighteen, or have finished Hogwarts. You have to have a license and if you do it wrong you can leave pieces of your body behind."

"Yech, does it hurt when that happens?"

"I'm not sure. We should ask and find out. It never happened to me, I only ended up in the wrong place once or twice when Dumbledore was teaching me," she said as they descended the stairs to the first floor.

"Mummy said they would wait for you in the Parlor. Uncle Tiberius isn't going. He had to do some work for the Order for Headmaster Mr. Dumbledore. I heard Mummy and Uncle Severus talking about it."

"Phaedra, you should not be talking about the Order, even to Harry." Her mother reprimanded her as they entered the parlor. "Harry, you look lovely."

"Thank you, Circe. Where are the others?"

"Severus will be along in a minute to take Phaedra; he is just locking up his potions lab. Sirius and Remus are making sure the dogs are fed and have enough water before we leave. I'm sorry Tiberius could not come, but he promised Albus he would do some more undercover work."

"I understand," she nodded. "I think I hear the others coming up the hall now."

"Harry, you look lovely." Severus studied her with approval, coming into the room.

"She looks more than lovely," Sirius beamed proudly, "she is exquisite."

"Flattery will get you everywhere," Harry teased, winking at Remus, who stood beside her godfather, a huge smile on his face. Harry thought he looked quite well considering it was the last night of the full moon. "Will you be staying for the party?"

"Yes, it should be over before it gets dark, but in any case Albus has made arrangements for us to spend the night at Hogwarts. I have already drunk my potion so there should be no problem."

"I didn't know we were going to stay the night. I don't have anything with me to wear," she said with dismay.

"Don't worry, Honey, the house elves will bring our things later," Sirius replied warmly. "When we get to Hogwarts we will have to separate since we need to sit with the staff. Will you be okay?"

"I think I can manage. I will show Phaedra the giant squid until it's time to begin."

"There is a giant squid?" Phaedra asked wide-eyed.

"He lives in the lake, and he loves to eat little girls," Severus grinned wickedly at his niece, "so I wouldn't go too near the edge."

"Miss Harry, is Uncle Severus telling me the truth?"

"The squid must eat something," Harry chuckled, as they went out the front door. Remus locked it, using a spell known only to the members of the household.

"Are you ready, Phaedra?" Severus asked at the front gate.

"Yes Uncle Severus."

"Then hold onto me as tight as you can, and we will be off. Your Mum will follow us with the others."

"Okay," Phaedra replied, wrapping her arms around her uncle as he raised his wand.

"Hogwarts," he said, and they disappeared into the morning sunshine.

Circe followed him immediately and then Harry went at the same time as Sirius and Remus. They arrived at the end of the road that led onto the grounds. Harry noted that there were other people arriving too. Some were coming from the town of Hogsmeade itself, having arrived by portkey, and others had come on brooms or used Muggle transportation, Hermione's parents among them. Harry reasoned that the Muggle born children had directed their parents and they were able to get through the barriers shielding the school since a witch or wizard accompanied them.

"Miss Harry, let's go. I want to see the squid," Phaedra begged, tugging at her sleeve.

"Phaedra, calm down," Circe warned firmly, "the squid might be underwater today. He doesn't always surface."

"It's okay, Circe, I don't mind. Come on Phaedra," Harry laughed, "I'll race you the rest of the way to Hogwarts." Harry took off at a slow run in an effort to allow Phaedra to win. Both girls were laughing and smiling with delight as they avoided bumping into the other families walking towards the school...

"It is good to see her so happy," Remus remarked as they walked up the hill towards the castle. "She has been rather quiet since the meeting."

"She's worried, we all are," Snape replied curtly.

"Then we need to make sure she has some piece of mind over the next few weeks. I hope she will enjoy our little surprise. I am looking forward to some time away myself," Sirius said smirked.

"We all are," Remus agreed, "even Severus needs some down time."

"I admit the change of scenery will do us all good. Besides there is a Potions Conference that is scheduled in Paris, and I was lucky enough to be able to reserve a seat for myself and Harry."

"You take her to the conference; I think she will prefer the Louvre or a nice walk along the Seine."

"I thought your family chateau was in the country?" Remus asked curiously.

"It is. In fact, it is in Brittany, not far from Merlin's Forest, Brocelainde. It is one of the smaller houses. My family being the way they were boastfully called it, Le Chateau de Noir," Sirius smirked.

"It will be good for Harry to learn some of our history," Severus mused, "up till now she has not had much information except what she has heard from the other students, or Muggle myths and legends."

"I think she should see Merlin's grave and some of our other historic sites such as the Fontaine de Barenton, where Merlin met Vivian, and the Val Sans Retour, where Morgane held the unfaithful lovers prisoner until they were freed by Lancelot," Remus agreed.

"Ah...Moony old friend, always the scholar," Sirius shook his head with a grin. "I still think she will enjoy Saint Malo. It is one of the finest bathing resorts in France."

"I think you just want to see her in a bathing suit. You know she will wear one of those Muggle styles," Remus laughed. "I hope for your sake she just doesn't decide to wear a sting bikini or a thong! I need not remind you that payback is a bitch. Can't you just see all the young men following her around on the beach?" Remus taunted wickedly.

Sirius growled softly in his throat, furrowing his brow in consternation.

"If I know Black they won't get within ten feet of her. He would just transform and go after them," Severus replied. "Of course the up side might just be that he is hauled off as a vicious dog by the Animal Control," Snape gloated.

"Now little brother, it is a good thing Harry is not here to hear you say that or you and Sirius might just end up tied at the wrists again," Circe admonished playfully, as they reached the castle. "I see that Phaedra got her wish. The squid is swimming in the middle of the lake today."

"Who is that with Harry?" Snape asked shielding his eyes from the sun.

"Judging by the hot pink hair, I would guess it is my cousin, Tonks."

"Sirius, I have to agree. Who else but Nymphadora would have hair that shade of pink?" Circe smiled.

"Sirius, what color is her hair, anyway?" Remus asked curiously. "Do you have any idea?"

"If I remember correctly, it is dark brown, and her eyes are blue."

"Isn't it time the three of you got inside? I am sure Albus is waiting," Circe said checking her watch.

"Yes, we should get going," Remus agreed. "Minerva said she wanted all the staff to help greet the families and make everyone fell welcome. She said it would help the Muggles feel comfortable."

"Circe will you tell Harry we will see her at the ceremony?" Sirius asked as he moved towards the castle doors, which were open to accommodate the throng of people.

"Certainly, I need to go and get Phaedra before she decides to find out if the squid it tame. She appears to be trying to attract its attention, and I don't need her to get soaking wet," Circe remarked, waving goodbye to the three men, who were grinning at the antics of the little girl, as they entered the castle...

"Phaedra, don't get so near the edge, you will get mud all over your shoes," Harry warned.

"Look Miss Harry, he is swimming towards us," Phaedra squealed with delight. "Do you think he really eats children?"

"He may not eat you, but he has been known to pull people into the lake!" Harry exclaimed. She knew the squid was actually harmless, but it did like to grab an ankle from time to time.

"Does it have a name?"

"I don't think so. Maybe you should name him."

"Okay, I will call him Blue Eye."

"That sounds good, since his eye is blue."

"Hello Blue Eye," Phaedra curtsied, as the squid swam closer to the shore, reaching one of its giant tentacles towards her.

"Phaedra! Step back from the edge now!" Circe yelled, as Harry pulled her back.

"Uh oh...I think my Mum is getting mad," she groaned.

"Now you're really in for it," Harry agreed. "I told you not to get too close. You're lucky he didn't pull you in." Even as Harry said the words, she heard a yell, and a splash. Turning around, she saw that the squid had zeroed in on Circe and latched onto her ankle, pulling her into the lake, before swimming off. Circe was standing waist deep in the water, walking slowly towards the shore.

"Oh, Circe, I'm so sorry!" Harry exclaimed as Tonks came running up from where she was standing under one of the large shade tress.

"Tonks, could you take Phaedra up to the castle while I help Circe?"

"Sure, Harry. I will meet you both in the Great Hall," Tonks replied taking the child by her hand and hustling her off towards the school.

"Circe, I feel awful. Your new robes are ruined," Harry cried in dismay.

"It will be all right, Harry. It was my own fault for not paying attention. I know how that squid likes to catch people off guard, and was so busy watching Phaedra that I failed to make sure I was out of his striking distance," she answered doing a drying spell as Harry followed suit and ran her wand up an down to iron out the wrinkled fabric. "At least the water was shallow and I didn't get my hair wet."

"I still feel like it is my fault," Harry answered regretfully.

"Well, I am as good as new, so why don't we get moving on up to the castle. I believe the ceremony will be starting soon."

"I for one will be glad when it is over. Ron and I know Hermione's speech better than she does. We are planning on doing an incendiary spell on it afterwards," she grinned playfully.

"Is it very long?"

"Maybe half an hour, but she worked really hard on it."

"What is it about?"

"Most of it is the usual graduation stuff, but she does say that the magical community and the nonmagical people need to learn to work in harmony and accept one another for their abilities. It is a nice theory but she doesn't seem to understand that many Muggles are frightened and jealous of the magic."

"And you do?"

"I grew up with it. My aunt and uncle considered me a freak. They hated anything magical. My aunt had always been jealous of my mother and severed ties with her before I was born. She only took me in since it afforded her some protection from Voldemort because she and my Mum were blood relatives, and her blood would act like my Mum's."

"So you agree we should keep our world separate?"

"That's a hard question. I would like to think my relatives are the exception to the rule. Hermione's parents while wary are very proud that they have a magical daughter. I would like to see more understanding on both sides. I think we all would."

"Me too," Circe agreed, as they entered the castle and Severus strode over to them.

"Circe, are you all right? Phaedra told me the squid pulled you into the lake," he questioned, dark eyes glittering with laughter.

"You do not want to go there right now, little brother," she warned.

"I can see that," he sneered. "By the way, she named the squid Blue Eye. Dumbledore loves it."

"Leave it to my daughter to name a giant squid," Circe laughed exasperated. "Where is she, anyway?"

"Sitting in the back with Tonks," Severus indicated, directing his attention towards where they were seated. "They saved you a seat. I believe you know Sirius' cousin Andromeda."

"Yes, she was behind me in school by a few years, but we were both in Slytherin. It will be nice to see her again. As I recall she was a very nice girl, not at all like her older sister Bellatrix. I will see you both after the ceremony." Circe told them as she moved over to where her daughter was sitting with the Tonks family.

"Harry, I believe Minerva wants all of the students to line up outside of the Great Hall. She brought you all in as first years, and she likes to bring you in as graduates," Snape informed her.

"I think that is rather nice. She was there when we came if for the first time, and she likes to be there when we come into the hall for the last time," Harry responded with a catch in her throat.

"Then I would suggest you not keep her waiting," Snape said looking at her down his nose. "I will see you later."

"All right," Harry agreed moving back towards the entrance foyer.

The students were waiting in one of the rooms across from the Great Hall where they were to line up before entering to take their seats. Professor McGonagall was signing them in as they entered to make sure everyone had arrived. She was dressed in her dark green robes with her Scottish Tartan. Harry sensed the old witch had been crying, knowing it was the last time she would see most of them until their children came through the massive front doors for the first time.

"Hello, Professor," Harry greeted her. "It is good to see you again."

"Thank you, Miss Potter. I was wondering when you would finally grace us with your presence. I understand you had some kind of mishap at the lake?"
"The giant squid pulled Professor Snape's sister into the water, but she's fine."

"I am glad to hear it, now if you would take your place in line..."

"Yes, Ma'am," Harry acquiesced going over to stand with Ron and Hermione as she greeted her other friends.

Scanning the room, she was relieved that they were all having the same flurry of emotions as she was; happy, sad, excited, and uncertain. Even the Slytherins were fighting tears. After today, they would all be considered adults in the wizarding world. She only hoped that her fears about Voldemort were groundless and they would all have bright futures in front of them. As the last of the students entered the room, Professor McGonagall rose to address the graduates.

"In a few moments you will be walking through the doors into the Great Hall for the last time as students. You will take your seats..."

"Trevor!" Neville's voice burst out, as he moved over to retrieve his toad, accompanied by the chuckles of his fellow students. "I'm sorry, Professor, but I figured Trevor was here on my first day so I kind of though he should be here on my last," he apologized sheepishly.

"It seems to me Mr. Longbottom he did the same thing on that day as just now," McGonagall's thick brogue agreed. "Please try to keep him in your pocket."

"Yes, Professor."

"As I was saying, you will walk through the doors and will sit in the areas designated for each of your houses. When it comes time for you to receive your diplomas you will each be called up to the podium by the sorting hat and Professor Dumbledore will hand you your diploma in your left hand so that you can shake with your right. Before we go in, I would just like to say that you have been among the finest students this school has ever seen, and it has been my privilege to teach you. I wish you all luck and happiness in your future endeavors," she said, a catch in her throat, as she held her head up high. "It is time to start."

They followed her across the hall and the doors to the Great Hall swung open. The ceiling was a crystalline blue, and fluffy white clouds scudded across it. Harry almost wished the ceremony had been at night so she could see the candles floating against the stars, but knew in a few weeks she would be back as a teacher and would get to enjoy them then. All the teachers were sitting on the dais, except for Firenze, who was standing to one side. Harry wiped a tear from her eye as she saw that two of the chairs were draped in black for Professor Flitwick and Professor Trelawney, who had been lost in the battle to save the school. Once all the students had taken their seats, Professor Dumbledore stood to address the room.

"Good morning, as Headmaster I wish to extend a warm welcome to all of our visitors. I know you are all anxious to get started, but I wish to remind our non-magical guests that their cameras will not work in the building and any pictures taken outside will also be blank. This has been done for security. If you would like a picture of your son or daughter there are teachers standing by who will charm your camera so it will work. However, you may not be facing the building or anywhere indoors. I would suggest you go down by the lake as it is a pleasant day, and a nice place for photographs. I will also ask our magical guests to also refrain from taking pictures while in the castle as a courtesy to our other guests..."

Harry and Ron were sitting patiently as the faculty each addressed the students briefly. Next, Ron's Dad, Arthur Weasley, Minister of Magic, rose to address the students.

"Good Morning everyone, I am happy to be here on this wonderful day. This graduating class will long be remembered. They have had to live through a violent war, and helped to protect this institution from forces that would seek to destroy the freedoms and opportunities to learn and understand one another for which it is noted.. I am proud to announce that every student here will be receiving The Order of Merlin along with his or her diplomas. Of the fifty-two students seated here, forty-seven will receive the third class, four the second class and one student will receive the Order of Merlin first class. However, before we give out these awards, there are other school awards to be given, and our Valedictorian, Miss Hermione Granger, will present her speech. Miss Granger, if you would please come up to the podium?"

The students all applauded as Hermione rose and walked up onto the dais. Harry leaned over and whispered into Ron's ear?"

"Did you know about all of us getting an Order of Merlin?"

"Hell, no, Harry. I bloody well would have warned you. I know how you hate this kind of stuff. Now I know why I saw Rita Skeeter in the back of the room representing the Quibbler, along with another reporter from the Daily Prophet."

"Oh great, that's all I need, my picture in the papers again. I just want to be left alone."

"Harry, you know that isn't going to happen. You're a celebrity. People want to know about the witch who defeated Voldemort."

"Yeah, and what will happen if he comes back? They'll all say I failed or faked the whole thing!"

"No they won't. There were too many witnesses, and his body was brought to the Ministry after Grimmauld Place. Besides, no one comes back from the dead!"

"Sh! Dumbledore is watching us. I think he knows what we're talking about," Harry warned uncomfortably. "I want to hear Hermione's speech anyway."

"We've heard it at least ten times. I love Hermione but enough already," Ron groaned, looking up at Hermione as she began her speech.

"On behalf of the graduating class of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, I would like to welcome you all here today. Seven years ago, we all came to Hogwarts for the first time, from all walks of life. Many of us come from non-magical families, others from a home where only one parent was a witch or wizard, and finally there are those from all magical families. Yet when we entered this building for the first time, we all had one thing in common. We were all afraid of failure...

Hermione's speech continued for the next half hour without incident, but just as she was getting ready to deliver her closing lines, Harry caught sight of Peeves, drifting up from the ceiling. He was holding a water balloon, and she could tell he was up to mischief.

"Ron, look," she said nudging him in the shoulder. "Peeves is going to ruin Hermione's speech! We have to stop him."

"Oh no!" he muttered anxiously. Bored as he was with Hermione's speech he did not want to see her embarrassed. Even as the thought struck him, he knew it was too late. Everyone in the room had spotted the mischievous ghost as he took aim at Hermione's head and let the balloon go.

"So now, as we prepare to leave Hogwarts for the last time," Hermione intoned unaware of the poltergeist's activity, I will say thank you...

At that moment, Harry jumped up, and pulling her wand, took quick aim, uttering a fast spell, "Verto globus aqua in fulgor," turning the water balloon into glitter, which drifted slowly down onto Hermione. The room burst into applause, as Peeves stuck out his tongue and disappeared.

Hermione suddenly realized what had been about to happen, and laughed out loud. "As you all can see, Hogwarts has not been without its times of fun and pranks. Peeves loves to catch us all unawares with his little tricks," she said altering the end of her speech, "and I think those are the things we will all remember the most," she finished, and resumed her seat, amid a round of applause. "Thanks, Harry; I should have seen that coming," Hermione whispered.

"Anytime," Harry grinned.

"Now I believe the Sorting Hat would like a few words, and then we will present the awards," Dumbledore said, addressing the audience from the dais.

All eyes were drawn to the tattered old hat sitting on the stool at the front of the room. Twitching, the large tear above the brim opened and the hat began to sing.

I am the Hogwarts Sorting Hat

As most of you do know,

I sorted them into each house

On their first day of school

Twas then they put me on their heads

To look inside each mind,

For each had suited talents,

For which they were assigned

The Ravenclaws intelligence,

With Slytherins so cunning,

In Hufflepuff hard workers go,

And Gryffindor the brave

Endeavoring to learn their craft

From morning until night,

With chants and spells and potions mixed

They passed from year to year,

Till now you see before you

As young adults today

Their minds all crammed with knowledge

Of Wizardry's best skills,

They learned them here at Hogwarts,

So now their time is done

For when I call their name and house

As I did so long ago,

They may come for their diplomas

Then God Speed them on I say,

To face the world outside this place

That started them on their way.

The room erupted into cheers and applause, and the Sorting Hat tipped its point down towards the brim in a show of gratitude. The parents of the Muggle borns looked on in awe. Even though they knew their children had magical abilities, the reality of how extensive the magical world really was astounded them, since their children had not been permitted to use magic while still in school.

Dumbledore rose along with Mr. Weasley and with a wave of his wand a small table appeared with the diplomas neatly tied with ribbons in the color of each house. Mr. Weasley also waved his wand, and a second table appeared with a stack of rectangular boxes each containing an Order of Merlin.

"We also have some school awards to bestow, and they will be given out by the Professors who taught the particular subject," Dumbledore spoke from the dais, "to save time we will present the awards with the diplomas. If our Sorting Hat is ready, we shall begin."

The hat twitched again, and yelled, "John Abbott, Hufflepuff."

"Congratulations, Mr. Abbott," Dumbledore said handing him his diploma. He then went to Mr. Weasley.

"Mr. Abbott it is my pleasure to bestow upon you the Order of Merlin Third Class for your heroism in the defense of this school, congratulations," he repeated, shaking the young man's hand.

"Susan Bones, Hufflepuff," the hat called again.

"Congratulations, Susan," Dumbledore beamed. "Miss Bones is also the recipient of the Muggle Studies Award, which will be presented by Professor Blackburn."

Susan went up to the dais, received her diploma from Dumbledore, and then was given a plaque from Professor Blackburn, for outstanding performance in Muggle Studies. She then was also awarded an Order of Merlin Third Class from Mr. Weasley.

This procedure was repeated until the only students left were Neville, Draco, Ron, Hermione, and Harry. Harry knew they had purposely been placed last due to the significance of the Order of Merlin each was to receive.

"Neville Longbottom, Gryffindor," the hat yelled and all the students applauded loudly.

"Neville will also receive the Herbology award, and Order of Merlin Second Class, for his outstanding help during the battle of Hogwarts," Dumbledore smiled, and Neville's mother could be heard crying softly, as his father cheered, and grandmother announced to those around her, "that's my grandson!"

Dumbledore then gave Neville his Diploma, while Professor Sprout gave him a small statue in the form of a tree inscribed with his name. He then received his Order of Merlin from Mr. Weasley.

"Ronald Weasley, Gryffindor," the Sorting Hat announced with a flourish.

"Mr. Weasley will receive awards in Divination and Care of Magical Creatures and the Order of Merlin Second Class for his outstanding performance during the battle of Hogwarts," Dumbledore smiled, winking at Ron. Taking his diploma, he then received his other award from Firenze, a crystal ball with an inscription on the base, as the Muggles talked excitedly about seeing the centaur. Hagrid then gave him a plaque engraved with magical creatures on the border. Finally, his father then presented him the Order of Merlin Second Class, hugging him profusely. His family cheered wildly, and Hermione wiped a tear from her eye. Harry gave him thumbs up, beaming proudly.

"Draco Malfoy, Slytherin," the hat called. His name was greeted with mixed enthusiasm, but you could hear Tonks, stating he was her cousin. Sirius also warmly applauded for his cousin, along with Ginny. Severus actually smiled for his godson.

"Mr. Malfoy will receive awards in Astronomy, and Potions, along with an Order of Merlin Second Class, for his organization of the students preceding the battle. As he received his awards, Draco held his head up proudly. He was the last of an old and noble line. Despite their association with the Dark Arts, he wanted the people in the room to know that he was not among those who would use such magic to their own ends.

There was a brief pause as Draco resumed his seat, and then the hat again called out, "Hermione Granger, Gryffindor, Hogwarts Valedictorian," and the room burst into applause. Hermione was receiving the most awards of the graduating class.

"Well done, Miss Granger," Professor Dumbledore approved as he gave out her diploma. "Miss Granger is receiving awards in Arithmancy, Ancient Runes, History of Magic, Charms, and the second of the two Potions awards. She will also receive the Order of Merlin Second Class for assisting the younger students to safety prior to the attack on the school."

The room went wild with applause, Harry among them, but she also felt a stab of jealousy. She had hoped Severus would give her the Potions Award. She had worked so hard with him, and had actually surpassed Hermione, but she knew that was only due to the special tutoring she had received. Hermione was a natural with Potions. 'Stop feeling cheated,' Harry thought to herself, 'I know damn well she deserves the award. It just bothers me that Severus didn't recognize me for all that hard work I had to do to earn the NEWT he gave me. He also gave Draco the other award and that makes it hurt all the more.' She looked at Severus, and wanted to cry. 'What is the matter with me? I never cared about what he did before, why should I start now?'

"Miss Harry Potter, Gryffindor!" the hat yelled, interrupting her thoughts. Harry didn't want any awards. She just wanted some privacy, and now she knew her picture would be in all the papers again. She rose slowly as the room went wild with applause and cheers of "Our Savior," and quietly walked up to the dais.

"Miss Potter will receive awards in Transfiguration, Defense Against the Dark Arts, the Quidditch Flying Award, and the rarely given Natural Healer's Commendation. She will be permitted to seek Licensure by the Ministry of Magic following demonstration of her skills to three Senior Healers. She will also be given the Order of Merlin First Class, for her defeat of the Dark Wizard known as Lord Voldemort, her role in the evacuation of the younger students, and her defense of the school during the attack. She is the youngest person to ever receive this honor," Dumbledore announced proudly.

Harry was stunned. She had not expected the Healer's Award. She also was embarrassed by the continued applause from the students and families. Even the parents of the Muggle born students were aware of the role she had played in protecting both the Wizarding world and the non-magical world. She graciously accepted her diploma, looking mischievously at Professor Dumbledore. Sirius and Professor McGonagall hugged her as she accepted the Transfiguration Award, a plaque inscribed with a Phoenix. Remus beamed as he handed her the Defense Against the Dark Arts Award, a wand made not of wood, but the antler of a stag, with the core enchantment of another one of Fawkes feather's, to represent her Patronus and her heart. She then received the Healer's Commendation from Poppy.

"You just can't seem to stay out of my infirmary." The nurse whispered playfully.

"I like the company," Harry chuckled, making Poppy grin happily. She then received her Order of Merlin from Mr. Weasley amid furious applause and the flashing of cameras from the Daily Prophet and the Quibbler. She had a feeling Rita Skeeter was going to be looking for an interview later. As she moved to exit the dais she could feel Snape watching her, and decided to send him a mental message. 'Don't talk to me. I worked my ass off for you and you didn't even acknowledge my hard work. The one award I really wanted, I didn't get,' she glared, letting him know how hurt and angry she was feeling. He merely arched an eyebrow in her direction, a slight sneer on his lips.

"That concludes our ceremony for this year," Dumbledore announced. "Please try not to use all your magic skills at once when you leave here today, and be discreet so that those of you who live in non-magical communities are not seen. Other than that, I wish to say good fortune and enjoy whatever celebrations your families have planned. Class Dismissed!"

The graduating class cheered one last time and the air was suddenly filled with pointed hats as the former students cheered one another in jubilation. Harry quietly worked her way through the crowd and toward the doors at the front of the castle. She just wanted a quiet place and some privacy.

"I'll see you guys in a little while," Harry whispered to her friends as she reached the exit. I have something I have to do. Keep Rita Skeeter on ice for awhile," she chuckled in Ron's ear."

"Where are you going?"

"Visiting," Harry replied mysteriously, as they walked out into the warm summer sunshine. "Let Sirius know I will be back in a little while."

"Visiting?" Ron questioned. Who are you visiting?"

Harry merely smiled, transforming into her phoenix, and took off towards Hogsmeade."

"Now what? Sirius and the others will want to know where she went," Ron said rolling his eyes, putting an arm around Hermione.

"Ron, if you want to be an Auror you need to be more observant. She flew off towards the road to Hogsmeade, but if you were paying attention you would have realized she turned west."

"Of course, how could I have been so stupid? She's gone to the cemetery to visit her parents."

"Come on then, let's go and find Sirius and the others and let them know. She is probably feeling a bit sad, wishing they could be here too," Hermione tossed her head knowingly as they hurried off to locate Harry's three protectors...

Harry landed in the tree she had come to think of as Artemis Watching Tree, remaining in her animagus form. Resting, she looked about and noticed the fresh lilies neatly placed on her parent's grave. The sweet strains of a flute were drifting upwards and Harry caught sight of Artemis lavender hair as she swayed with the music. She was sitting in the shadow of the tree. The music had an aura of mystery to it, mesmerizing Harry, and the beautiful scarlet Phoenix began to trill contentedly.

""I have been waiting for you," Artemis soft childlike voice spoke from the shadows.

Harry jumped, startled, and looking down from the tree, saw that Artemis was smiling up at her. She immediately flew down, and transformed.

"I didn't want to startle you, and the music was so...wait a minute...how did you know I was coming?" Harry asked confused.

"Did you not just attend your rites of passage at the castle?"

"Oh, the graduation...yes, I did."

"Then I knew you would wish to speak with those who sleep here," she smiled, indicating the grave.

"Good old fashioned common sense; and here I thought there was some kind of magic involved."

"Common sense has a magic of its own. But I do wish to speak with you," the elf explained, her lavender eyes growing serious.

"You're worried, I can sense it."

"Yes, Miss Harry. I have already spoken to the wise one and he too is concerned," she answered referring to Professor Dumbledore. "I have been listening to the wind in the trees, much as the centaurs watch the stars. There will be great turmoil coming in the weeks ahead. You need to watch for she who shifts with the night. She will be your guide."

"I don't understand. What do you mean?"

"I can tell you no more, only that you will have to face a crisis within your soul. Do not fear your other selves, for they will be your salvation. Your heart is that of the Phoenix, but your cunning comes from the snake that lies upon the mother earth. When the two have been joined, you will have the power of the ancients. Remember...what is in our hearts is not always what is right. This is my gift to you for your right of passage into woman hood. I must go now, for another approaches." Artemis bowed, and vanished, before Harry could ask her more.

Harry just stood there open mouthed, wondering what it was that Artemis had just told her. What was all that stuff about someone who will shift with the night and the power of the ancients? Obviously, this was some kind of warning. A knot was forming in Harry's stomach, and a cloud passed over the sun, causing a chill to run over her spine. Artemis had used the same words as her father and Dumbledore, 'what is in our hearts is not always what is right!' Glancing up the path, she saw Artemis had been right. Severus was hurrying in her direction.

"Weasley and Granger told me I would find you here. Black and Lupin are waiting for you. Everyone is gathering in the garden for the party."

"I needed some quiet time, not that you would care."

"I am more that aware of your adolescent outrage towards me over a silly little award. You are acting like a spoiled and jealous child."

"I worked harder for you than anyone else. I deserved your recognition. That Potions Award really would have meant something to me," Harry yelled angrily.

"Oh, and what is that?" he sneered.

"It would have told me that you had real confidence in my ability to pass the Potions Master's exam. It would have been proof that you really cared, but you don't know me at all."

"My dear girl, just the fact that I am sponsoring you to take the exam should have told you that I care."

"All that tells me is that you don't want to be embarrassed so that you are making sure I pass. You could care less about me," Harry said turning to walk away from him. Before she had taken more than two steps, she felt the pressure of his long slender fingers digging into her arm with a vise like grip, spinning her round to face him.

"You think that I don't care, Potter, that I don't know you? You're wrong. I know you better than you know yourself," he hissed. "You aren't happy unless you're challenged. You need a goal to focus on to satisfy that stubborn Gryffindor pride. You claim not to enjoy all the attention, yet you thrive on it. I care about you more than you know. I understand the lonely aching within your soul better than Lupin does or Black ever will." Severus stared down at her, black eyes glittering furiously, embracing her, as he crushed his lips to hers.

Harry struggled against his onslaught as he forced his tongue to meet hers, before she relaxed and responded to his embrace. 'This is not happening,' she thought confused. 'I can't be in love with him...Sirius...' Jerking free, Harry stared up at him in disbelief. CRACK! She slapped him across his right cheek. Shaking her head, she started backing away from him. He threw back his head, laughing, ignoring the stinging of his cheek.

"You aren't ready to admit you love me yet, but I'll be waiting, Harry...I'll be waiting," Snape sneered softly.

Harry continued to stare at him in shock, taking deep breaths to calm herself down, before she was able to transform and fly back towards Hogwarts.

Severus just stood watching until she disappeared from sight. Turning, he conjured another bouquet of flowers, placing it on James and Lily Potter's grave.

"Potter, if anyone had told me twenty years ago that I would fall in love with your daughter I would have hexed them into oblivion. I did though, and I am telling you and Lily now that I will marry her, and she will always be happy," Snape remarked, looking down at the quiet grave. Nothing moved, and a peaceful quiet had settled over the little cemetery, as Severus raised his wand, apparating back to the bottom of the hill where the path led back to Hogwarts...

Reaching the castle, Harry spotted Professor Dumbledore, and flew over alighting on the grass beside where he was talking with Rita Skeeter.

"Ah, our Little Phoenix, we were wondering when you would return. Did you have a nice visit with your parents?"

"I ran into an old friend," she replied, having resumed her human shape. Her green eyes reflected some of her worry, and his blue ones met hers with understanding.

"You can tell me all about it later, but I believe you promised Miss Skeeter a brief interview," Dumbledore answered looking sternly at the reporter.

"Yes, I will be happy to answer a few questions for Miss Skeeter."

"Then I will excuse myself. Harry we will talk later," Dumbledore assured her before moving off in the direction where Sirius and Remus were talking with the Longbottoms.

"Thank you, Miss Potter," Rita nodded. "I will be brief, as I am also here as an associate of Mr. Lovegood and his daughter. I know they are friends of yours."

"Yes, they are. Now tell me what I can do for you?"

"The world is still waiting to hear how you defeated the Dark Lord."

"I killed him with the killing curse and a lot of luck. I prefer not to go into details," Harry said quietly.

"Ah, the modest heroine," Miss Skeeter commented. "What will you be doing now that the war is over?"

"I will be teaching here at Hogwarts, Miss Skeeter."

"Yeah, she turned down a position as a relief seeker playing professional Quidditch and working for the Ministry of Magic as an Auror." Ron's familiar voice said from over her shoulder.

"Really? How about you Mr. Weasley? You were also at the final battle when the school was attacked. Can you tell me what happened?"

"I'm sure Luna has already told you and her father as much as she has wanted to, Miss Skeeter. So why don't you just relax and enjoy the party?" Hermione remarked coming up behind Ron.

"But the public really wants to know how everything went. You kids are all news. The Quibbler would like to tell all of your stories."

"Miss Skeeter," Harry frowned, "we have all gone through a horrible experience. I for one wish to try to forget the horrors I witnessed that day. Good people were killed, and others maimed for life so please let it go. If you would really like a story why not write about how we are going on with our lives?"

"Ah...very well...I can see none of you are going to give me the details of the battle."

"Did Luna?" Hermione questioned.

"No, she also refused to give us the details. According to her father, she is still having nightmares."

"We all are," Harry stated matter of factly. "Print something happy. I'm sure the world would like to know how we are really coping, instead of telling of the blood and gore. It will come out at the trials anyway."

"All right then, you are going to teach. What about the two of you?" she asked Ron and Hermione.

"I'm in Auror training with Draco Malfoy," Ron explained, "and Hermione is going to work at the Ministry in Muggle Relations."

"You're Muggle born, aren't you, Miss Granger?"

"Yes, I am. That is why I am so interested in working to further the relationships between the two worlds. We need more understanding, and less distance if we are ever going to bridge the gap between the two worlds."

"Yes, well, that is one way to put it," Miss Skeeter agreed, her bug like eyes studying Hermione shrewdly.

They spent another fifteen minutes telling her what some of the other students would now be doing, and she was particularly interested in Neville Longbottom. She knew there would be a good story there, with his parents returned and how they were all adjusting so she drifted off in their direction.

"Thank god that's over," Hermione remarked. "Now we can have some fun."

"I will drink to that, "Harry grinned. "Do we have any Butterbeer?"

"Of course, it is over there," Ron replied pointing to where all the tables were set up. "Let's get something to eat. I'm starved."

"So what else is new?" Harry teased. "I will meet you two in a few minutes. I just want to see Sirius and Remus first."

"Okay, but try and hurry," Ron replied. "Hermione, I forgot to tell you, but Mum wanted to see you about staying over for a few more days. I told her you were going to start you job on Monday and to talk with you about it."

"Oh, Ron, I wish I could. Let me go and see her and I will meet the two of you over by the buffet table," she responded moving off to find Mrs. Weasley.

"I suppose you did that to get rid of her for a few minutes so we could talk about that little surprise you have planned for her?" Harry grinned slyly.

"I purposely didn't tell her about Mum's wanting her to stay longer since I knew I would need to talk to you for a few minutes. I'm a nervous wreck."

"Take a hint from George, he did okay the day of the meeting."

"Oh, Harry, stop it!" Ron blushed. "I really want to get this over with."

"Let me just go for one minute and then I will help you out."

"You're sure?"

"We will make the announcement together. After all, what are best mates for? How do her parents feel about it?"

"They're really happy and understand the final decision will be up to Hermione, but they seem to think she will be willing."

"Then let me give Sirius and Remus a quick hug and we will be off." Harry laughed running over to where her two protectors were still deep in conversation. Snape had also arrived on the scene, but she could not meet his eyes.

"Harry we all have a surprise for you. It is a combination graduation and birthday present," Sirius beamed, hugging her.

"Do I get it now?" She questioned with a smile.

"Remus do you think we should make her wait?"

"I don't know, what do you think, Sev?"
"I for one would like to see her reaction. I hope she will appreciate our little present."

"I'm sure if it comes from the three of you, I will love it," she replied, finally looking up at Severus, who had on a wry smile.

"In that case, here it is," Sirius smiled, handing her a large envelope.

Opening it, Harry gasped, "Travel papers to France!"

"That's right, Princess, we're going on holiday in Brittany. We all thought you could use a little fun and rest away from here," Remus beamed, while Sirius hugged her and Snape arched his brow sardonically.

"I love all three of you. When are we going?" she asked looking at the papers.

"We leave in the morning. That is why we are staying over at Hogwarts tonight," Sirius explained.

"I need some new clothes!"

"Relax, Circe has seen to it. She and Phaedra will be coming too," Snape informed her.

"I thought she had to work?"

"I had already put in for my vacation so it all worked out well," Circe smiled, coming over to stand beside her. "The house elves have all your belongings packed, and we will go by Portkey at ten tomorrow morning."

"Does Phaedra know?"

"I told her a little while ago. Speaking of Phaedra, where is she?"

"Young Longbottom is showing her the Whomping Willow," Severus remarked, staring in the direction of the tree.

"Oh great, I had better get over there. No telling what she will do if she wants to see it move." Circe hurried off, nervously.

"Listen, I have to go and meet Ron. He is about to have a case of nervous prostration worrying about giving Hermione her present."

"What is Mr. Weasley giving her?" Snape asked.

"You mean you don't know?"

"Neither do I, Princess."

"I didn't tell them. I wanted to see the look on their faces," Sirius chuckled.

"Oh, well, then I had better get going," Harry smiled, giving her godfather a wink.

Dashing over to find Ron and Hermione by the buffet table, Harry decided to help Ron end his agony quickly. After filling her plate with food, she took her wand and pointed it at her throat. "If you will all give me your attention," she addressed the crowd. "I would like to thank you all for coming today, and would appreciate it if you would all listen up for one minute. My best friend, Ronald Weasley, would like to say a few words, he would like to share with everyone," Harry grinned wickedly as Ron blanched.

"Ah...right...ah..." Ron stammered, then looked at Hermione, and fell onto one knee. "Hermione Granger, would you marry me?" he managed, his voice shaking, as he pulled out a sapphire and diamond ring from his pocket.

Hermione started to cry, stunned, and managed to nod and sob, "Yes, Ron, I'll marry you."

Everyone at the party whooped and cheered. Their parents came over, and hugged them both. Mrs. Weasley and Mrs. Granger both were crying. Harry just quietly drifted back into the crowd, wiping the tears sliding down her cheeks. She wished her life could be so uncomplicated and happy.

The rest of the afternoon was spent eating, dancing, drinking, and having an overall good time. Harry danced with all three of her protectors, making sure to step on Severus feet. He merely arched his brow amused, and kept dancing. Remus was hurting since it was the last night of the full moon, so he begged off, and retired early, but Sirius stayed. She felt happy and safe, and spent most of the evening by his side. She laughed when he and Snape gave Phaedra a dancing lesson, while Circe looked on. Overall, it had been a good day.

Harry was glad when everyone had gone though, and retired to her new rooms to get ready for bed. She had been given rooms on the second floor, over near Professor McGonagall, and was pleased with the comfortable sitting room, with a large bedroom and bath adjoining it. They would be her rooms when she returned to teach in the fall.

Dumbledore was happy that she was satisfied, having come by to speak with her as he had promised. Harry told him what had happened at the cemetery, leaving out the part about Severus. He was thoughtful and had her repeat exactly what Artemis had told her. Blue eyes serious, he told her not to worry, and that things would work themselves out. He was certain she was in no immediate danger. Harry questioned him about this shape shifter, but he merely shook his head, blue eyes twinkling. She knew he was aware of something, but was not yet ready to divulge any information. Finally, he kissed her forehead, and he too retired for the night.

As she lay in bed, she heard a dog barking outside, and then heard the howl of a wolf from the forest. She recognized the voices as those of Padfoot and Moony out for a midnight run in the moonlight, and smiling to herself, fell asleep.