The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

"If it will make Hermione happy I will only do the one. You can have one of your brothers as best man."

"No, too much competition," Ron considered thoughtfully. "Neville, would you do me the honor of being my best man?"

"Who me? You want me for your best man?"

"Yup, next to Harry you are one of my closest friends. I was going to ask you to be a groomsman anyway."

"I will be honored, then...and Ron...thanks for asking." Neville's brown eyes were bright with enthusiasm. "I promise to make sure everything goes off okay."

"Draco, since you're my partner, my sister's boyfriend, and a member of the Order, would you be one of the groomsmen?" Harry knew Ron was suppressing a grimace but his genuine affection for his sister had won out over his dislike of Draco.

"You flatter me Weasley. I will be honored," Draco replied with dignity. Harry's empathic senses told her he was genuinely surprised and flattered that he had been asked.

"Yeah and it's a good way to get to know each other better," Tonks laughed. "I'm sure Ginny will be delighted."

"Who else are you going to ask, Mione?" Harry inquired curiously.

"Ginny, of course," she smiled at Ron, "Luna, and Tonks." She grinned wickedly at the now purple haired witch.

"Really, you're asking me? But I am liable to trip walking up the aisle." Tonks looked ecstatic and amazed at the same time.

"Yes, will you be one of the bridesmaids? I think you will do splendidly."

"Then I'll do it!" Tonks exclaimed delightedly. "I even promise not to morph and turn my hair all kinds of colors."

"Um...Tonks what do you really look like?" Neville asked timidly. "I have only seen you when you have odd colored hair, and you always seem to be changing your features."

"Oh, that," she flushed. "I am just in the habit of experimenting. I often need to morph in a dangerous situation on the spur of the moment."

"So what do you look like?" Draco wondered with interest.

"Cousin, I tend to favor the Black side of the family," she laughed, changing her features into their natural state.

Harry realized she was not kidding. Her hair was a deep chocolate brown and her face was heart shaped, as Draco's mother's had been, but her eyes belonged to Sirius. They were the same deep brown, with a hint of amusement behind them, off set by fine dark brows and thick lashes. Her mouth had full lips though, and Harry knew Tonks had inherited that from her father. Her nose didn't seem to belong to either side of the family. It was long and aquiline, but not large. Overall, Harry found her to be quite attractive.

"Tonks, you should be yourself more often. You're really quite pretty," Ron remarked. "My brothers will be impressed."

"Thanks." She flushed at the compliment, quickly changing her face again to hide her embarrassment.

"Have you given any thought to who else you will have for groomsmen?" Harry asked, rescuing Tonks.

"I think I will have my brother, Charlie, and if Harry thinks he would accept, I would like to ask Remus," Ron remarked trying to sound casual. Harry noted he was sneaking a surreptitious glance in Tonks direction.

"Why don't you ask him? I think he would be flattered, Ron," Harry said, amused. 'Hmm...Ron wants to play cupid. It would be an interesting match. I wonder if he realizes Remus is interested in Arsinoe. Then again, I could see Tonks with Sirius. I wish I didn't love him so much. Damn...why can't I make up my mind? I know he loves me too, but something isn't right. Well...I guess I will just have to wait and see. I know Sirius wouldn't have a problem dating Tonks though...all the Purebloods intermarry with their cousins and it's not like she's his first cousin after all..."

"Harry! Harry snap out of it!" Ron was shaking her arm.

"Oh...Sorry Ron. I was just thinking about something," Harry apologized. "What did you say?"

"I asked if you think I should go over and ask him now."

"I think he would like that. Just make sure you guys aren't getting married during a full moon."

"No. It will actually be during the new moon if we do it for Valentine's Day," Hermione put in knowledgably.

"How do you know that?" Ron questioned wonderingly.

"I checked all the phases of the full and new moons for the upcoming year so we could plan around Professor Lupin. It wouldn't be fair to him if he couldn't attend or was feeling unwell."

"That's our Hermione." Harry beamed.

"I think you should also check with Dumbledore to make certain that he doesn't mind your combining your wedding reception with the dance," Draco suggested.

"I don't think he will, but you do make a valid point Draco," Tonks agreed.

"Then we should go over and talk to them both right now," Hermione remarked, rising. "Oh and Harry, do you think I should have a flower girl? Phaedra has been helping me in the library and she is adorable. Do you think the Snapes would mind if she were in the wedding too? My family is really small and I don't have any little cousins."

"I don't think they will mind at all. I know Phaedra will be thrilled. Just hope she doesn't get herself into too much mischief. She is very precocious," Harry smirked, noting that Tiberius and Circe had entered the Great Hall. Phaedra looked a bit downcast and Harry knew she must have gotten into some kind of trouble.

"Humph," Ron grunted. "I am sure Fred and George will provide more than enough entertainment!"

"You don't think they will cause any trouble with their tricks do you?" Hermione looked nervous at the prospect.

"If they do I will hex them from here to Jupiter, love," Ron laughed, giving her a reassuring hug.

"Then let's go and talk with them now. Once everything is settled, we should owl our parents and let them know our plans. I will need to start planning." Hermione pulled Ron after her, heading over to where the Headmaster and Professor Lupin were sitting.

Harry watched the scene unfold with interest. Dumbledore was listening to them intently, blue eyes twinkling merrily, as he glanced over at Harry. She saw him make a few comments and nod happily. Professor Lupin looked uncomfortable, but she could tell they were assuring him that there would be no full moon. He seemed to consider their proposal for a few moments. Harry noted that Sirius was resting his hand on top of Remus' from across the table. Remus caught her gaze and deftly withdrew his hand. He said a few more words to Ron. Glancing back at Harry with a nod, a faint smile played about his lips as he shook Ron's hand in acceptance. Ron was grinning from ear to ear. Sirius whispered something to him while Hermione moved off to speak with the Snapes, who had joined Severus and Professor McGonagall. Whatever Sirius had said Ron's, face was bright red. Harry thought his face would crack if his smile got any bigger. Her attention was suddenly interrupted by a loud whoop from Phaedra. The child was bouncing up and down with excitement, hugging her mother. Leaping up from the table, she ran over to Harry.

"Miss Harry, Miss Harry!" she squealed. "I am going to be a flower girl in Miss Hermione and Mr. Ron's wedding. Are you in it too?"

"Yes, Phaedra, I am the maid of honor," Harry answered warmly.

"That sounds very important. What do you do?"

"I make sure all of the bride's needs are taken care of and help her get ready for the ceremony."

"Oh...that is a very special job," Phaedra replied, shaking her head.

"When you marry Uncle Sev will I be in your wedding?"

"Ahem..." Harry cleared her throat, "what makes you think I will marry your Uncle Severus?"

"This should be quite interesting, Potter," Draco chimed in from where he was sitting beside Tonks.

"I just know Miss Harry is going to marry him. I dreamed about it."

"Phaedra, just because you dream about something doesn't mean it is going to happen. It is just your hidden desire that it will happen," Harry explained, trying not to upset the little girl. Her heart was racing in her chest as she remembered the scene in the dungeons that afternoon.

"No, Miss Harry, it is going to happen but not for awhile yet. I know it will." Phaedra was looking at Harry with an odd expression in her eyes. It reminded her of Luna...or maybe Trelawney...far away and spooky. Harry suppressed a shudder, and smiled at the little girl.

"They say if you want something bad enough it will happen," she told Phaedra.

"They also say be careful what you wish for," Draco sneered.

"It isn't my wish, Draco. It's Phaedra's."

"Don't believe me!" Phaedra pouted stamping her foot. "But I know it will happen."

Severus had been sitting watching the exchange and noticed his niece becoming angry. He silently rose, walking over to where Harry and Draco were sitting with Tonks and Neville. Seeing Severus approach, Neville hurriedly excused himself, stating he needed to speak with Professor Sprout. He still had an irrational fear of Snape.

"Phaedra, what is the problem? I believe you were told earlier about your behavior?"

"Uncle Sev... Miss Harry and Draco were making fun of me! They don't believe that she is going to marry you just because I dreamed it!" She tossed her head in frustration.

"That will be enough, Phaedra. A dream does not mean that something you saw is real. All people dream about things they would like," he said annoyed. Harry didn't fail to notice the edge to his voice as he glanced swiftly over at her, eyes unreadable.

"Uncle Sev, I dreamed it. I know it is going to happen!"

"I said that is enough and I meant it," he warned his niece sternly. "Very few dreams foretell the future."

"Then why do I have to tell everyone when I dream about the bad wizard?" she protested defiantly.

"The Dark Lord is able to get into people's minds and make them do things. We are merely making sure he is not doing this to you."

"Oh...could he make me hurt someone?"

"Phaedra why would you ask that?" Harry questioned.

"Because I want to know. I know he is a bad man and I am afraid he will make me do something bad to you."

"Phaedra, he can't make you do anything bad to me," Harry responded, giving her a gentle hug, "but he may try to find out what I am doing so you need to be careful. If you dream about him you're to yell at him and tell him to go away."

"I will, Miss Harry, and if he says bad things I will tell my Mummy right away."

"Good girl. Now go on and eat your dinner. I know you must be hungry."

"I am. What is for dessert?"

"Treacle tarts, pudding, or ice cream."

"Yummy," she giggled patting her stomach. "I am going to eat all my dinner and maybe Mummy will let me have an extra dessert." The adults all smiled at the child's fondness for sweets.

"Go on then, Phaedra. I see your mother is waiting for you," Severus directed. The child scampered off and Severus turned his attention back to Harry. "Harry, I need not remind you that you have a lesson in the morning following the staff meeting. I will expect you to be on time and have that parchment done."

"Yes, Professor Snape," she laughed, pretending to cower under his gaze. Harry didn't miss the slight smile that passed his lips.

"Good night then. Enjoy your evening with Lupin and Black," he said nodding. Harry watched him leave before turning to her friends. Ron and Hermione had just returned.

"Well, mate, everything is all set. We will be married on Valentine's Day and the reception will be here in the Great Hall. We're off now to the owlery to let our parents know the good news."

"Molly will be delighted, as well as your folks, Hermione."

"I can't wait to tell them," she beamed. "Harry, we need to start looking at dresses. Do you think I should go with robes or the traditional Muggle wedding dress?"

"Do both, you can wear a white robe over the gown or since it will be winter you might want a long cloak."

"Hmm...That might be a good idea."

"Come on, Mione, lets get on up to the owlery and get our letters off.. You and Harry will have lots of time to talk over the next couple of weeks."

"All right, Ron. Harry we will see you tomorrow. Have fun and be careful."

"Yes, Mummy," she answered sarcastically. Ron laughed and Hermione just shook her head as they moved off.

"We have to get going too," Tonks informed her. "Draco is on night duty with Kingsley Shaklebolt. He could do with a nap before he has to report and I have a volume of paperwork to catch up on."

"I will walk out with you then. I still have to do Severus little homework assignment before I go out and would like to take a fast shower."

Harry, Tonks, and Draco left the Great Hall together. On the way out Harry noticed that Sirius and Remus had already gone up. The moon would be rising soon and she knew that Remus needed to rest for the transformation.

Reaching her room, she was greeted by Snuffles. Harry was happy to see that Dobby had fed her. The house elf had taken it as his solemn duty to take care of Harry's dog. He saw to it that she was fed and walked several times a day. He was also helping Phaedra with her dog, Hannibal. The two pets would soon be sent down to Hagrid though, as Dumbledore felt it would be better once the school term started. The Headmaster had assured Phaedra that she could visit Hannibal whenever she wished.

Harry decided to get her homework over with first. Sitting down at her desk, she pulled out some parchment and her Potions books. It didn't take her long to find what she had done wrong. 'What a stupid mistake. I put the two main ingredients in backwards,' she muttered to herself ruefully. 'At least I had them all correct, even if they were in the wrong order.' It took her about an hour to write them out correctly and explain how the potion had been affected by her error. She also discovered that she had inadvertently created a slow acting poison. Shuddering, Harry realized why Severus was so particular. She could have killed someone if they had drunk it.

Satisfied with her work, she sighed, and put her books away. Taking a good stretch, she checked her watch. It was nine thirty and she would have to hurry to be downstairs by ten. Following a quick shower, she put on clean robes and put her hair up in a ponytail. Satisfied with her appearance, she gave Snuffles a quick pet and a dog treat before leaving the room.

Reaching the main doors Harry went outside and looked around. The moon was casting its silvery light over the landscape. She spotted Padfoot waiting patiently with Moony, or as she had come to call Remus' wolf form, Captain. Harry did not transform immediately. Instead, she walked slowly over to where they were both sitting beneath the large Oak tree, not far from the Whomping willow. Padfoot wagged his tail in greeting. Moony looked on warily and Harry approached him slowly with a soft greeting.

"Hello, Captain Moony." She cautiously extended her hand, while his sensitive nose identified her scent. He wagged his tail in greeting, yellow eyes reflecting the moonlight. "You are one beautiful wolf," she told him, running her hands over his thick coat. Padfoot gently nudged her from behind, playfully poking his nose to her rear, in a doggy style greeting. "Hey, that isn't funny Padfoot," she flushed. She could see he was grinning wickedly. "Who ever thinks dogs don't smile needs to have their eyes examined!" she muttered. Moony tilted his head, looking towards where the lawn sloped gently away from the castle. Harry knew he wanted to run and play. "All right you two. I know you want to have some fun. Just give me a second to transform." Stepping back gingerly, she closed her eyes. A split second later, her beautiful phoenix was standing majestically in front of them.

"Very nice, Love," Padfoot's voice came into her mind. Harry knew they could understand one another mentally.

"How do you feel Moony?" she asked the werewolf, ignoring her godfather.

"Fine, but I need to let off some steam." He circled around her, nose twitching as he studied her animagus form and scent. "Obey our leads, my little cub, since you are new to our pack." Harry understood that the wolf part of Moony was putting her into the pecking order of the pack. He would protect her, but would brook no nonsense.

"Now Moony, you know Wings will behave. It is her first time out with us and I think she understands enough to follow our orders." Padfoot touched Moony's nose with his own affectionately.

"So long as I have the room to fly; just don't let me lose sight of you in the underbrush."

"We will make sure you don't become separated from us Wings," Moony nudged her gently with his soft muzzle. "Now let us be on our way," he howled, running in the direction of the Forbidden Forest, Padfoot on his heels.

"Shit! I forgot to ask them to avoid the forest...not that they would have anyway..." Harry muttered flying after them.

Moony and Padfoot were enjoying their run through the forest and Harry could see them romping and growling as they chased some small animal. Remus actually caught a rabbit, but Harry let out a screech of anxiety when she saw it, so Moony released the terrified animal from his jaws, holding it down with one paw. Padfoot was laughing wildly.

"See Moony, I told you she would yell. She just doesn't appreciate a good rabbit."

"Moony is well fed and doesn't need to hunt his food!" Harry protested.

"What about me, love? I could use a snack. Chasing after Moony does cause me to work up an appetite."

"Stop teasing me, both of you!" Harry was growing upset, and she knew it was the Phoenix in her that wanted to make sure the rabbit was truly unscathed. Going over to the small rabbit, she began to trill a Phoenix song, and it immediately calmed down. Seeing a small scratch on its back, Harry noted that it had been injured in the undergrowth and would not last long in the forest. The predators would kill it. She began to cry. Her tears fell on the soft grey fur of the rabbit. Padfoot and Moony could not believe their eyes. Harry's natural healing ability had also manifested itself in the Phoenix tears!

"Miss Wings, did you know your tears had healing powers, just like a real Phoenix?" Padfoot questioned.

"No...This is...the first time that...has ever happened."

"You have saved this little rabbit tonight, Wings. I did not intend to eat him. However, another wolf would have made short work of him with the injury." Moony gently nudged the rabbit and it ran off into the underbrush. He then studied Harry thoughtfully. "Albus will want to know about this newly manifested ability of your bird," he nuzzled her affectionately. "Perhaps we should make our way back now. I can sleep until the moon sets."

"Just when I was having fun," the Phoenix chirped.

"Me too, Moony, let's stay out a bit longer. We can skirt the edge of the forest and come back by way of the Quidditch pitch."

"Very well, Padfoot. Let's go. Miss Wings, you will need to fly low as the trees are dense and we will be very near to Aragog's nesting sites. It would do you no good to get snared and become a spider snack."

"Yech...I was already nearly a troll's dinner. Must we venture so close to Aragog's territory?"

"What, getting like Ron now?" Padfoot teased, aware of her friend's fear of spiders.

"No, I just don't need the added excitement in my life right now. The Dark Lord is quite enough thank you."

Remus suddenly stopped, lifting one paw as his nose twitched furiously. His hackles were raised on his back, and his golden eyes were wide as his ears pricked. Padfoot too, was sniffing the air, and Harry could sense they were in danger. Something or someone was in the forest with them.. In that moment, she wished the Phoenix had the sense of smell that the canines did.

"Wings, you need to get back to the castle as fast as possible. You are in danger. We all are," Moony growled softly.

"What is it, Moony. What do you and Padfoot smell?"

"There is something unnatural in the forest tonight...and another wolf."

"I don't think it is a werewolf though. It doesn't have the human scent with it," Padfoot commented.

"No, but it is accompanied by the something cold...something inhuman...come on. We need to move with caution. Fly low and stay near us."

Harry did as she was told. Her empathy told her that Remus was nervous. Whatever was in the wind it was ahead of them. It was too far to turn around and go back the way they had come.

"Padfoot, I think there is something else in the forest tonight too. I have the feeling we are being followed."

"I know, Miss Wings, but I do not sense any danger from whoever is following."

"Have they been there long?"

"No," Moony interrupted. "Now both of you keep quiet," he directed, as the baleful howl of another wolf filled the air from up ahead of them...

The silent figure of a canine followed the three Marauders furtively. It had picked up their trail about ten minutes ago, having followed the scent of the werewolf from where they had left the castle. Staying downwind to avoid having its scent picked up, the dark gray of its coat helped to shield it in the darkness. The animal meant merely to follow and watch, but now realized that there was trouble ahead. The scent of evil was in the air, along with that of a wolf. There was also a new and unfamiliar scent, which was reminiscent of dung. Keeping low to the ground, it slunk in the shadows, muscles taught and ready to attack that which was waiting up ahead....

The tall blond man stood silently, watching the caged wolf pace back and forth. He was awaiting the arrival of his master, who had gone to get one of his favorite toys. Tonight would be the last time that annoying little half-blood Potter would cause them any more trouble. It had been sheer luck that he had seen Potter leave the castle with the werewolf and Black. The Dark Lord had been pleased and immediately went into action. He had sent him on ahead with the wolf he had secured from the Italian Alps. The Dark Lord originally intended to have the wolf maul a few Muggles and Muggle borns, blaming it on Lupin. The werewolf would have been hard pressed to prove otherwise. Even with his friends in control of the Ministry, at the very least he would have been sent to Azkaban.

Black was now an added bonus, as was the Potter brat, herself. Now they could stop her once and for all. There was no way the three of them could stand up to this little trap, and Potter would have to transform back to human form to fight. They would see to it that she could not fly out of the forest this time. She would be outnumbered and away from the castle. There was no way she could get help in time. A soft pop announced the arrival of the Dark Lord.

"Master, I have been awaiting your arrival," he said kneeling and kissing the hem of the taller man's robes. "The wolf is most anxious to go on the hunt." His master made a swift motion indicating he should stand.

"Yes, Lucius, he will be freed soon." Voldemort's red eyes shown with glee. "Blaylock will be here in a minute," he laughed, looking towards the loud rustling coming their way. "I have also summoned several of the Dementors. They are moving through the forest amongst the shadows as we speak. Potter will find herself in quite a little battle. Her weakness is that she will want to protect the werewolf and Black. She will have to transform to fight the Dementors. Blaylock and the wolf will keep the other two more than busy. I promised one of them to Blaylock. He hasn't had fresh meat in awhile..." The Dark Lord laughed maliciously. Suddenly a large troll stepped from the trees. He was close to eight feet in height with gray skin and large yellow eyes. He leered at Lord Voldemort, displaying gaping spaces between his rotting teeth. His breath was fetid and his body smelled of rot and decay, reminiscent of fertilizer. The wolf whined in fear.

"Blaylock has arrived, My Lord," Malfoy addressed his master, wrinkling his nose in disgust.

"I can see that for myself, Lucius. You may release the wolf. Blalock will follow him."

"Yes, My Lord," Malfoy replied opening the cage. The wolf ran as if possessed into the forest, Blaylock charging in after him. He carried a primitive slingshot and spiked club.

"Come Lucius, this should be quite interesting." Voldemort glided into the forest, following in the wake of the troll. Lucius Malfoy dutifully followed two steps behind...

"Harry, I want you to fly out of here as quickly as possible," Moony growled softy. The other wolf is coming towards us."

"Moony, if I am not mistaken a troll is following behind him." Padfoot sniffed the air. The odor of the troll caused him to sneeze violently.

"They aren't alone...I...can feel...Dementors..." Harry gasped, a wave of cold and despair washing over her. "Oh...he's...coming...too..."

"Who?" Moony and Padfoot asked in unison.

"Vol...Voldemort..." Harry managed to utter as a gasp of pain shot through her head and six Dementors materialized amongst the trees.

"Harry, what ever you do, don't transform!" Padfoot hissed. "They can't discern your emotions as an animal."

Harry nodded, as a loud squawk erupted from her throat. "Moony, look out."

The wolf had come through the trees and was circling Remus. Padfoot moved to help just as a huge gray troll erupted from the trees, wielding his club at Padfoot.

"Harry, get out of here now!" Moony yelled as he moved to attack the troll and help his friend just as the wolf leaped onto his back.

Werewolf and wolf were locked in a life or death struggle. Padfoot was growling at the troll, hackles on end, as the mighty creature swung his club, missing as the huge black dog leaped to the left. Harry wanted to help but knew they wanted her to leave, and she would have done so but she was feeling the cold of the Dementors, as they closed in around her. Her animagus form was not helping...Voldemort must have told them to go after the Phoenix! Harry had no choice but to transform, and go for her wand.

"Expecto Patronus!" she screamed, thinking about kissing each of her protectors. Immediately the stag appeared. Harry noted that he seemed bigger and stronger than usual as she directed him towards the ring of Dementors closing in on her.

Padfoot suddenly yelped in pain, as the Troll's club connected with his back leg. Crack! His hip was broken and he fell to the ground. The troll moved in for the kill. Harry raised her wand directly at the horrible creature. "Stupefy," she yelled as the red stream hit the troll in the head and he crashed to the ground just as a second onslaught of Dementors arrived. Unfortunately, the troll was only stunned, and sat up groggily just as Harry sent another Patronus out towards the Dementors.

Padfoot was trying to stand, and the troll once again raised his club as a small gray animal the size of a dog raced into the foray and attacked, biting him on the back, but the troll threw him off. Harry vaguely recognized the animal as being a coyote, and not a dog. Somewhere in the back of her mind, she found this rather odd, as coyotes were not native to Britain. In the meantime, Remus was still engaged in battle with the wolf. The werewolf had the wolf by the throat, shaking him vigorously, but the wolf was somehow able to free himself just as the troll made a move towards Harry.

The next thing she knew the coyote was racing back into the foray, and Harry froze in shock. The coyote was changing shape...growing larger and more compact. It's coat was also going form gray to golden with dark spots, and a deep growl came from its throat as long claws erupted from its paws, as the jaguar, for it was now a jaguar, sprang onto the troll's back, slicing it open. The troll howled in pain, and Padfoot took the opportunity to bite his foot, where it was resting beside his injured body on the ground.

Just when Harry thought they were going to win, a sharp pain pierced her scar, tearing it open. She new Voldemort was watching, and looked up to see him gliding towards her through the trees, Lucius Malfoy following. Still she refused to give up, and hit the troll with another stunning spell, while the jaguar joined Moony in the fight with the wolf.

"Don't kill the wolf!" Harry yelled out. "He was merely used by Voldemort."

"Potter! We meet again!" Voldemort's icy voice drifted through the trees. "I see you are as devoted to your friends as ever, but it won't help you this time. I cannot be killed in the conventional manner. For me there will be no more death, nor for my faithful servant, Lucius."

"Incendio!" Harry shouted aiming her wand at the trees separating the two men from them. The forest floor immediately was ignited into a ball of fire. The troll bellowed in anger, as he regained his footing and picked up Padfoot, slinging him over his shoulder. The animagus was helpless and immediately transformed, as the wolf, recognizing defeat, ran off in terror. The jaguar was about to leap onto the Troll when a stream of what appeared to be rope looped itself around the troll's ankles.

"Harry, get out of here, now!" Padfoot screamed. "The spiders are attacking!"

"I will not leave you," she sobbed, just as she saw a green bubble shoot into the sky. Voldemort had sent up his dark mark.

"Good night and farewell Potter," his maniacal laughter filled the forest. I didn't summon the spiders, but they will finish what my servants started. Should they fail to do so, I will stop you with the one thing even you will be unable to resist. Lord Voldemort knows what secrets hide within your soul," Voldemort glared, red eyes glowing against the backdrop of the flames, laughing ominously. This was followed by two pops as Voldemort and Malfoy disapparated.

Harry flicked her wand to put out the fire, and stood at the ready to defend Padfoot. He had fallen back to the ground when the troll was flung off balance. The jaguar and Moony had also positioned themselves in front of Harry and Padfoot. The troll was slowly being dragged away as more spider silk wrapped itself around his struggling body. This was followed by a loud clicking noise. The group was suddenly confronted by Aragog's enormous body.

"Hello friend of Hagrid," he addressed Harry. "You have done well to stand up to the evil one who blamed Hagrid and me for the death of that girl so long ago..."

"Thank you Aragog," Harry replied, glancing around nervously. She knew that his children were somewhere nearby. "I see you have trapped the troll, but what of the wolf?"

"He was an innocent victim. If you wish we will return him to you."

"Please. He was cruelly used."

Aragog said something in an odd clicking tongue that they couldn't understand. Another spider moved forward and dropped a small sack in front of Harry. She could tell the wolf was still alive as it was moving, trying to fight its way out of the spider's silken cocoon.

"What of the troll?" Sirius asked quietly.

"He shall provide fresh meat for my children," Aragog stated matter of factly. "He shall not be returned. He was a follower of the evil one."

Harry thought she would be sick. Moony was sniffing at the silk sack containing the wolf, and the jaguar continued to place its body between where Harry was kneeling beside Sirius and the giant spider.

"This one is new to our forest and comes from a land far away, as I did. You will be welcome here as are the werewolf and the animagi. I know what you are, but take heed...the forest is a dangerous place. While you have my promise of safety, there are other perils for which I cannot guarantee protection."

The large cat growled in understanding as Aragog called the other spiders to return to the nest, just as Dumbledore, Ron, Severus and Hagrid came through the trees.

"Aragog!" Hagrid called. "Aragog...don't hurt my friends."

"Hagrid, I will not cause them any injury. They are welcome here any time."

"What happened?" Dumbledore questioned.

"The evil one was here. He is an abomination of nature and must be stopped," Aragog explained.

"The Dark Lord was here?" Snape narrowed his eyes.

"Bloody Hell, Harry. Can't you even go for a night out without getting into trouble?" Ron grinned.

"It just seems to find me," she shrugged. "Aragog came along just in time," Harry indicated the giant arachnid. Ron gulped, and was noticeably paler. "I guess the goblet fired?" Ron merely nodded, eyeing Aragog warily.

"It was my pleasure to assist. It also provided us with our meal. Now I will leave, friend of Hagrid." The spider disappeared into the darkness of the forest.

"Uh...Harry...did you know that you are standing with a jaguar?"

"Ron, I am aware I have a jaguar standing in front of me. In fact this cat used to be a coyote."

"Potter," Snape drawled, "neither animal lives in this country, and to top it off you appear to be prattling."

"Phoenix's don't either, but I can still become one. I think you will all find that this jaguar is in fact Arsinoe Darkmoon. She is an animagus multiplico." Harry glanced at Dumbledore, who was studying her shrewdly, blue eyes twinkling merrily.

"You are quite correct, Harry," Arsinoe smiled as she transformed.

"I'll be damned," Sirius growled, and Remus wagged his tail.

"Hagrid if you will take that spider sack, I think you will find it contains a wolf. He may be injured and I know he is frightened. Can you help him?" Harry asked solemnly.

"Course I ken," he smiled. "I'll jus' go and see to 'im now." He scooped up the sack, putting a small slit into it for air, and headed off back towards the castle and his cottage.

"Padfoot, let me heal you," Harry said brushing the hair from his face, leaning over to give him a soft kiss on the forehead.

"I'll be all right, love. You need to get back to the castle. Poppy can tend to me there."

"Not until I know you're all right," she argued, running her hands over his injuries. "I will just patch you up quickly so that you can walk. Poppy can do the rest."

Harry was tired, and felt drained, but knew she had enough energy to at least mend some of Sirius injuries. She moved her wand over him along with her hands, and smiled in satisfaction. His hip was healed enough for him to stand, and she helped him up.

"Thanks Honey. Have I told you lately that you are amazing?" Sirius brown eyes were warm with tenderness and affection.

"Not really, but I kind of think you're pretty amazing too," she answered as he balanced himself between Severus and Ron to keep the weight off his partially healed hip.

"Are we going to have another moment of greeting card drivel?" Snape sneered.

"I think it's more of a love scene where the heroine kisses the handsome rogue, Severus," Dumbledore remarked amused. Harry just smiled. Sirius leaned down and tilted her head up, kissing her passionately.

"Ahem...If you two are done giving each other a tongue lashing I have some things which need attending to up at the castle. Headmaster...their behavior is most..."

"I do believe you are jealous, Severus. You didn't seem to mind when you kissed Harry earlier in the day."

Harry pulled away from Sirius, who was looking from her to Severus. The other wizard had drawn himself up to his full height, and Harry was unable to meet either of their eyes. She wondered if there was anything Albus Dumbledore didn"t know that went on inside the walls of Hogwarts.

"Love," Sirius soft voice breathed, "you don't have to feel embarrassed or upset over kissing the greasy git." He glared at Severus. "You know we all care for you, and want you to be happy. It will be up to you if it will be with one of us or someone else."

Harry shyly looked up at her godfather, who gave her one of his famous smiles, then kissed her again. "Come on, let's get back up to Hogwarts."

The small group walked through the forest in silence, Moony leading the way, tail wagging. He was followed by Arsinoe, who was walking with Albus. Harry was behind them, and Ron and Severus were helping Sirius.

"Harry, may I inquire as to whether you tried your new animagus form tonight also?" Arsinoe questioned as they left the forest and headed up the lawn.

"What new animagus form?" Sirius questioned. Moony turned his head, ears pricked.

"Harry has discovered her other half," Snape sneered. "The one she generally likes to deny exists."

"Knock it off, Severus," Harry pouted. "I have never denied that I was put into Gryffindor after I told the Sorting Hat not put me into Slytherin."

"Harry, are you telling us you can also change into a serpent?" Sirius questioned with interest.

"Harry, doesn't Vol...Voldemort...well doesn't he turn into a serpent too?" Ron asked nervously, stumbling over the Dark Lord's name.

"Yes to both of your questions, but Voldemort's serpent is a viper. Mine is a constrictor. It happens to be a green tree boa. I think they are from South America."

"You are quite right, Harry," Arsinoe beamed. "They're also among the prettiest snakes in the world."

"Can we see it, love?"

"I already have, along with the Headmaster and Arsinoe."

"You showed Severus and didn't even mention it to Moony and me?" Sirius asked, sounding a bit miffed.

"I would have told you both tonight, but something told me not to do so until later. I think it best if Voldemort does not learn of this either. Not yet, anyway."

"You are quite correct, Harry," Dumbledore agreed. However, I believe it would be safe to transform now. We can circle around you for added security should you be worried someone may be watching."

"I think after that battle in the forest, my two canine protectors would like to see what I look like, but I would prefer to wait until Moony is back to his human self."

"I didn't mean to press you," Sirius apologized. Moony whined softly indicating he understood. "Why don't you come to our room in the morning and have breakfast with me. We can help Moony to recover together. You can show us then."

"My goodness, Mr. Black, are you trying to get me into a compromising position?" Harry teased, and they all laughed.

"Well, Miss Potter, I would never do anything that you didn't agree to. Besides, you have been known to sleep with me in the same bed on occasion." Except for Arsinoe, they all knew he was referring to the times when he would stay with Harry when she was hurt or upset. The older witch merely ducked her head trying not to look shocked.

"Arsinoe, Harry and Sirius are pulling your leg. He stays with Harry when she is upset or injured, and the others will too," Ron laughed as they reached the castle.

"Oh...was my...er...I didn't mean to misconstrue..."she faltered.

"No offense taken, Miss Darkmoon," Sirius smiled. "Harry and I like to tease once in awhile."

Arsinoe nodded, as they made their way to the infirmary, and Dumbledore went to wake Madam Pomfrey. They returned a short while later to find Harry alone with Sirius, helping him off with his robes. Moony was sitting at the bottom of the bed, ears pricked, watching. The moon was low in the sky but would not set for at least two more hours. Harry had not realized they had been roaming the forest for several hours before they were attacked.

"It is good to see that you are uninjured for a change, Harry," Poppy chuckled. "I felt sure that the Headmaster was waking me up to patch you up again."

"Sorry, Poppy. I'll have to remember to keep you busy in the future."

"That won't be necessary. I am busy enough now as it is." Madam Pomfrey turned her attention to Sirius. "Well, Mr. Black," she remarked running her wand over him, "I see Harry partially healed you. What happened, Harry? Did you run out of healing energy?"

"Not completely, but I am exceptionally tired and had to not only transform, but take on a troll, a group of Dementors, and a certain evil wizard."

"So...it's true...the Necromancy worked. He's come back."

"Unfortunately, Poppy. Now that we have all actually seen him I must go and notify Arthur."

"Headmaster," Harry looked up, "I think it would be wise to notify the public that he may be about. Just let them know enough so they can be prepared in the event of an attack."

"What would you have us say, Child?"

"Tell them that the Deatheaters have tried a dark spell involving Necromancy in an effort to revive the Dark Lord's body. Let them know that is why it was stolen. Don't tell them he has been seen yet. Just warn them that it is unclear if the spell worked and they should remain on guard."

"I think she's got a great future in politics. She just said everything and nothing," Sirius quipped.

"Indeed, I shall discuss her idea with Arthur. Poppy when can Sirius return to his room?"

"I want him to spend the rest of the night here. I will release him in time for the staff meeting in the morning."

"Now, Madam Pomfrey..."he stared to object.

"You shut up and lay down, Sirius Black," Harry admonished, pointing her wand at him. "You will do as Madam Pomfrey says."

Poppy and Dumbledore both burst out laughing at the exchange, while Moony nudged Sirius gently with his nose, pushing him down on the bed with his front paws.

"I can see that it will do no good to argue," Sirius grumbled good-naturedly. "Harry will you see that Moony gets downstairs okay?"

"Moony and I are both staying here to make sure you don't sneak off."

"Now, Harry, I do not believe that will be necessary," Dumbledore told her quietly.

"No, I am staying, Headmaster. So unless you plan on stunning me and levitating me back to my quarters..."

"No," Dumbledore laughed, "even I know better than to argue with a powerful young witch once her mind has been made up."

"Thank you." Harry beamed happily. "Poppy, why don't you go on back to bed. I think I can manage Sirius for the rest of the night."

"It isn't Sirius I'm concerned about. Professor Lupin will be transforming soon..."

"He will be fine. I can help him once the transformation is completed. Is there anything you usually give him?"

"He likes hot chocolate and I give him a glass of the Pepper-up Potion mixed with healing herbs."

"Do you have the potion ready?"

"I will see that it is left out for you before I retire to my room. You can summon the house elves for his cocoa, and he will need clean robes."

"Right," Harry nodded. "Moony, get up on the other bed on the opposite side of Sirius'. I will rest on this one." Harry indicated the two beds, and watched the wolf do as he was told. She then stretched out on the other bed

"I shall bid you all good night, then," Dumbledore remarked, blue eyes twinkling. "I will send Arthur an owl as soon as I get back to my office and request that he reply by floo first thing in the morning."

"Do we get to hear his answer?"

"I happen to know it will do no good to try and keep it a secret from a certain Little Phoenix."

"I'll take that as a yes," Harry responded, grinning. "Poppy, I promise to call you right away if either of my two charges has a problem."

"See that you do, Miss. I am still waiting for you to do your hospital study for your healing license."

"I fully intend to, but first we have a few more important matters to deal with. In the mean time I think I read that I can do some clinical hours with a licensed healer in a clinic or infirmary type setting?"

"Ah...so she wants to work for me, Albus."

"I think we may be able to work it in from time to time, Poppy," Dumbledore told her as they both left the infirmary. "Although she has quite a bit...." Harry didn't hear the rest of the conversation as the door closed behind them.

"Now let me see..."she considered, then tapped her wand and called Dobby's name.

"Harry Potter, Dobby is happy to see you are unhurt."

"Dobby I am not even going to ask how you know I had an altercation with a certain wizard tonight. Right now I need you to bring Professor Lupin clean robes, and see that we all get some hot cocoa and breakfast at about six in the morning."

"Dobby will take care of Professor Lupin's clothes and see you all get the cocoa and something to eat."

"Thank you, Dobby," she said patting him on the head. The elf blushed and then snapped his fingers, disappearing with a pop.

Rising from the bed, Harry went over to where Remus had stretched out on the other bed. She sat down slowly, and began to pet him gently. She could sense his anxiety, noting he was starting to pant and look out the window at the slowly sinking moon.

"He was right, Honey, it was a rough one this month."

"Is there anything we can do for him?"

"Just what you are doing now. He knows we're here for him, and has told me on more that one occasion how much that means to him. Somehow it makes it more bearable."

"Then I will just stay here and keep petting him till the moon sets and he starts to change."

"Ah...Harry...you know he will be stark naked?"

"That's why I sent for his robes. He has nothing I haven't seen before..."

"Excuse me, Miss Wings?"

"Sirius, you seem to forget I posed as the opposite sex and lived in the boys' dorm for a number of years."

"But there was no way you could go around undressed."

"Only before my breasts developed. I could leave off my shirt and I wore boys underclothes...remember?"

"Still you kept yourself covered down below...Oh..."Sirius eyes widened for a minute as he realized that Harry may have kept herself hidden but her roommates certainly did not.

"Yeah, right..."she blushed. "They got me out of there in the nick of time."

"I should say so," Sirius frowned.

"Especially with Seamus Finnigan. He liked to call himself the Magic Wand of Ireland, and he wasn't speaking about the one he bought at Ollivander's," Harry snickered. "He was...shall we say...quite open and proud of what Mother Nature had given him?"

"Harry!" Sirius exclaimed pretending to be shocked, but he was laughing.

"What? You think it was easy pretending not to notice. Anyway, we all fixed him. Dean put a spell on his privates while he was asleep. He turned them green and put an engorgement charm on him at the same time..." Harry started laughing hysterically at the memory. "Needless...to ....say...he couldn't...go...to class...that day. He was too...embarrassed to...come to....Madam Pomfrey....too."

"I have a good mind to take you over my knee, young lady," Sirius stated trying to sound firm and parent like, but failing miserably.

"Now don't go getting kinky on me," she teased. Sirius laughed and threw his pillow at her. Moony looked up, and Harry swore he was smiling.

They just rested and dozed for the rest of the night until the moon disappeared below the horizon. Harry tried not to watch as Moony transformed, but could not remove her eyes. She cringed as she heard his bones breaking and reshaping. His face flattened and the hair on his body reminded her of a camera being run in reverse as it disappeared back into his follicles. As soon as the transformation was completed, she pulled the sheet over his body to allow him some privacy, gently kissing his forehead. Sirius had come to stand beside Remus bed.

"He's okay, Honey. He just needs to rest."

"I know. I just hate to seem him hurting like that."

"I hate to have you see me hurting," Remus remarked, opening his eyes, "but I'm glad you're both here with me."

"We aim to please," Sirius answered with a chuckle.

"So are we going to get to see your snake? Or was that Seamus Finnegan's?" Remus quipped.

"I am going to pretend I didn't hear that." Harry blushed rolling her eyes. "I will do a quick transformation before Dobby gets here and brings us our breakfast."

Harry stood back and did the spells in her mind, and while she still was not used to doing the snake, she executed the difficult magic with little effort. Sirius and Remus were both pleased, and she climbed up Remus bedpost and coiled her tail up next to him before changing back. They were both excited over her new animal and remarked that it was in the colors of Slytherin. Harry just grinned and told them Severus needed a little attention too. They talked for a while and Harry rubbed Remus sore muscles until Dobby came with their food and cocoa. Harry was happy to be with them like this, and relieved that Sirius seemed to be acting like his old self.

Madam Pomfrey came back at about eight and pronounced them free to go, pleased that Harry had taken such good care of them. They all walked back to their quarters together and following a shower, Harry went down to her first staff meeting. It was long and dull. She managed to get through it before going off with Severus for her lesson, which went better now that she knew what she had done wrong with her potion the day before. The new term was going to begin in two days, and she was both excited and apprehensive. Time would tell what kind of a teacher she would be.

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