The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Part 18

Professor Potter

The two days following Harry's encounter with Voldemort in the forest were filled with activity. The Order began to prepare for a renewal of the war, as did the Ministry. All believed that the renewal of hostilities was immanent and did not want to be caught off guard.

Arthur Weasley, now the permanent Minister of Magic, had not taken Harry's suggestions to warn the public lightly. After much conversation with Dumbledore and several closed-door meetings with the Board of Governors, the general consensus was that Harry's ideas were sound, and her suggestions were taken to heart. No one wanted a repeat of the scandals that had occurred while Fudge had been in charge of the government.

A special press conference was called with the Daily Prophet, the Quibbler, and the W. W. N. to announce the strategy and make sure the public was aware of the potential danger. It was not only successful, it was heralded by the populace as Honesty in Government. The Wizarding community was decidedly nervous but they were prepared. Voldemort would not take them by surprise again.

Harry had encountered only two obstacles. The first had been Hermione. She was furious that Harry had once again found herself in danger. She had given Harry a thorough tongue-lashing expostulating on how she had told Harry not to go into the Forbidden Forest in the first place. She had also been upset that Harry didn't come to see her as soon as she had returned to the castle following the fight in the forest. She had been worried sick when the goblet had fired and Ron and the others went to help. Ron had been the one to tell her that they were safe when he had returned to Hogwarts. She had expected Harry to come and reassure her, but when she had not done so, Hermione had spent a sleepless night worrying about her friend. She had finally let it go after hearing that Harry had elected to stay with Sirius and Remus in the infirmary. Harry had apologized for having worried her so much and hugged her friend for showing such concern.

Harry's other problem stemmed from the Wizarding public. Once again, they were looking towards her to be their savior. This was made doubly so since the Ministry had made Trelawney's prophecy public as a part of their strategy. Up to that point, the public had only been aware of Harry's role in the Mathias Prophecy. It had been generally assumed that the prophecy, which had been destroyed during the battle in the Ministry, was the same one. Voldemort too, had not known what Sybil Trelawney had prophesized to Albus Dumbledore. He had never heard the last half of the prophecy. Unfortunately, he would now know its contents. This meant that he would step up his attempts to thwart Harry and turn the tide in his favor. Harry knew that if he couldn't kill her immediately he would find ways to weaken her. She could not help but think about his threat during their encounter in the Forbidden Forest. 'I have a surprise for you, Potter. I know your weakness.' Harry had no doubt in her mind that he wasn't lying. She had no clue as to what he would do next and feared for the safety of her friends and loved ones. She was considering all of the possibilities as she made her way through the castle for the start of term feast and the sorting ceremony. She was nervous and excited as she took her place at the head table between Sirius and Severus.

Looking out over the Great Hall, she remembered when she had first come to Hogwarts. It seemed so long ago. Harry blinked back tears, as the memories of her years as a student overwhelmed her.

"You never get over it, Princess," Remus whispered from his seat on the other side of Sirius. "No matter how many times I have been here as a teacher I always think back over my years as a student."

"Using Legilimency now Lupin?" Snape's sarcastic voice cut across to him.

"Don't have to Severus," Lupin grinned, "you can just look at Harry's face to know what she is thinking. You can't tell me you don't get a wave of nostalgia every time you sit down for the Welcoming Feast."

"Humph, such things are childish nonsense."

"Is that why you feel so nervous, Sev?" Harry smiled. Your emotions are quite open this evening."

"Are you scanning me?"

"Not intentionally. Sometimes it is harder to block when there are so many people and my own feelings are on edge."

"Can you tell what we are all feeling, love?" Sirius asked, flashing a wide smile.

"Yes. You are as excited as I am. It feels good to feel your happiness. Remus is also feeling nostalgic and Severus is anxious and excited, but he masks it well."

"Tell me, Harry, what is the Headmaster feeling?" Severus looked over towards where Dumbledore was sitting, blue eyes twinkling as he watched over his charges.

"Should I tell them, Albus?"

"Why don't we keep it our secret?"

"All right," Harry laughed. "It's fun to keep them guessing."

"How does it feel to be sitting with the Professors now Harry?" Professor Sinestra questioned from her seat beside Lupin.

"Scary, and kind of...I don't know...exciting," she responded, looking over towards the Gryffindor table. Ginny Weasley had just taken her seat with the other seventh years. She waved hello to Harry, who nodded and smiled back with a wink. Over on the Ravenclaw table Luna smiled up dreamily, nodding to her friend.

"OH...this is just so thrilling," Hermione remarked from further down the table. "I can't wait for the sorting."

"Perhaps we should put the sorting hat on you again Miss Granger and see if you would still be placed in the same house," Snape quipped.

"She was almost placed in Ravenclaw," Harry said.

"Indeed. It is a wonder she was placed in Gryffindor."

"Harry was almost placed in your House, Professor," Hermione replied. "Would you have treated her differently if she had been a Slytherin?"

"Now this is getting interesting. Would you have been nicer to Harry, Severus, if she had been in your house?" Sirius questioned with interest.

"I was unaware that she was treated unfairly," Severus responded curtly.

"He would have been no different," Harry stated flatly. "He hated me because I looked so much like my father." Harry looked sadly at Severus. He studied her calmly, placing a gentle hand on her back in a gesture of fondness and apology. She sensed his remorse, and gave him a wan smile before turning her attention back to the expanse of students.

The doors to the Great Hall had opened and McGonagall had entered carrying the stool with the Sorting Hat, followed by the first years. As soon as she had placed them in front of the staff table, Dumbledore tapped his glass for attention, standing to address the students and staff.

"Welcome back for another year at Hogwarts," he announced. "I am glad to see so many happy faces and wish to welcome the first years. As usual, I have several start of term announcements. Since the nature of some of them is quite delicate, I will wait until after we have all eaten before I burden your minds. However, before we start the sorting I would like to introduce our new staff members. Due to the retirement of Madam Pince, we have a new Librarian. I am sure many of you know Miss Hermione Granger." The older students clapped joyfully, some yelling hello. Hermione stood up and smiled. "Mr. Neville Longbottom will also be doing an apprenticeship with Professor Sprout and will be assisting her with her classes later in the year." The Headmaster continued amid the applause as Neville also rose.

"Next I would like to announce that Professor Lupin will be taking over for Hagrid teaching Care of Magical Creatures and Professor Black will be teaching Charms." He did not mention the death of Professor Flitwick. "We also have some changes in our class schedules. We have a new Professor, Tiberius Snape, who will be teaching NEWT and OWL level Defense Against the Dark Arts." Tiberius stood to limited applause and whispers while the older students wondered if he was related to their Potions instructor. Dumbledore anticipated this with amusement. "Just in case you were wondering he is the uncle to Professor Severus Snape. I am sure you will treat him with the same courtesy as you do his nephew." Harry glanced over at the two Snapes who had arched their brows in amusement at the ripple of sighs and groans that followed. "Professor Severus Snape will be teaching NEWT and OWL lever Potions in addition to the first through fourth year Defense Against the Dark Arts." Harry could sense the anxiety this caused in the students and had to suppress a grin, as Dumbledore continued. "In addition, Ms. Circe Snape, Professor Severus Snape's sister, will be working in the capacity as my private secretary." Circe stood briefly to mixed applause and nods. "Should any of the older students be interested in babysitting, her young daughter, Phaedra will also be staying with her in the castle. If you wish to help her out you may leave your name with you Head of House and it will be forwarded to my office. Finally, I wish to introduce Professor Arsinoe Darkmoon. She will be offering special classes to fifth year students and up in Ancient Egyptian and Aztec Mysticism" Arsinoe stood gracefully amid whispers of excitement and applause. "A sign up sheet has been posted in each Common room. I will ask you to have them back to me by Wednesday so that she may start classes next week. Slytherin and Gryffindor will be held on Wednesdays and Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff on Mondays. They will be double period classes and I have made certain the years involved have free periods at those times for those who wish to attend. I also wish to tell you that due to additional administrative duties our Assistant Head Mistress, Professor McGonagall, will only be teaching the NEWT and OWL level Transfiguration classes. Our other new Professor will take over the first through fourth year Transfiguration and Potions classes. I am sure you will all recognize Miss Harry Potter." Dumbledore beamed in Harry's direction.

Harry was embarrassed, and did not wish to stand up as the cheers and applause rocked the Great Hall. Sirius was grinning from ear to ear, and deftly reached around to pinch her on the buttocks, to make her stand. She smiled at the tumultuous applause, but glared at her godfather as she sat back down.

"I knew I could get you to rise to the occasion," Sirius whispered wickedly. Remus was laughing and Severus maintained his usual scowl.

"Now I will hold the rest of the announcements till after the sorting and we have all eaten. Let the sorting begin," Dumbledore said resuming his seat.

The first years watched in awe as the Sorting Hat twitched, and the tear opened to form its mouth and the hat began to sing:

Welcome to our stately school

Hogwarts is its name

For the past one thousand years

It has gained renown and fame

For here within these walls

Each will learn the crafts

In the art of witching and wizardry

But before I sort you into each house

A warning I would proclaim

For while you will be divided

United you must remain

For evil lurks outside these walls

And will try to take control

So follow the leads of those who know

And have heard the call

To keep each individual house intact

Yet united one and all

For some will go to Slytherin

If you display the cunning and ambition

While others into Hufflepuff

Those of loyalty and hard work

To Ravenclaw the brightest go

Their minds to overstuff

And finally into Gryffindor

Whose hearts are brave and true

Yet I pray you to remember

How as one you worked before

To keep our Hogwarts free from peril

Lest these hallowed halls should fall

To one whose heart is cold as stone

A soul that's rotten at its core

So heed my warning here today

That we may say with pride

Hogwarts shall forever be

A house of learning and repute

For the good of wizardry

The Great Hall was silent for a moment as the students looked from one another to the head table before erupting into applause and cheers of Hogwart's forever. McGonagall gave the students a few minutes to calm down, and then unrolled the parchment she had been holding in her hands.

"As I call your name you will sit on the stool and place the Sorting Hat on your head. Once you are sorted, you will go over to sit at your house table. Allen, Tabitha," McGonagall stated crisply.

Tabitha Allen was a short plump girl with mousy brown hair and big brown eyes. She looked terrified as she sat on the stool and placed the hat on her head.

"Ravenclaw!" the hat bellowed. The hall erupted into applause and Tabitha ran over to the Ravenclaw table.

"Blackthorn, Morgan" McGonagall continued.

"Slytherin!" the hat called, even before the boy had placed it fully onto his head. Harry was reminded of when Draco Malfoy had been sorted.

The sorting continued through Brooks, Brownwing, Caldwell, Castlebury, and then came to Chang, Lee. Harry knew this was Cho Chang's cousin and the youngest grandchild of the elderly Mr. Chang, Cho's great grandfather. She watched in anticipation as the small dark haired oriental boy placed the hat on his head.

"Interesting..."the hat muttered. "You have many fine qualities...and a long family line of powerful witches and wizards...Hmm...Gryffindor!" the hat finally yelled.

Harry was delighted that the old Chinese gentleman's youngest grandchild had been sorted into her old house, and applauded merrily. The sorting continued for another half hour with Gryffindor getting twelve new students, Slytherin ten, Ravenclaw twelve, and Hufflepuff fourteen. As soon as the sorting was completed, Dumbledore led everyone in the school song. Harry noted Snape rolling his eyes and his Uncle Tiberius bore the usual family sneer. Circe sang happily, however, eyeing her brother and uncle mischievously. Harry wondered idly where Phaedra was, and as soon as everyone finished singing and the food appeared on the table she turned to ask Severus.

"Severus, where is Phaedra? It just occurred to me she is not at the feast."

"Phaedra is too young to come to the feast. Circe's house elf is minding her and her dinner was sent up. She will start in the school in Hogsmead tomorrow."

"Is she excited?"

"I believe she is rather nervous about making new friends, but her mother has reassured her that she will do fine."

"Honey, how are you feeling about teaching tomorrow?" Sirius inquired from beside her.

"Probably about the same way as Phaedra is about starting a new school," Harry laughed, looking at Sirius with affection.

"You will do fine, Princess," Lupin stated knowingly. "You have a talent for working with young children."

"That in itself is amazing since I never had a proper childhood myself."

"I would think you had an amazing childhood judging by some of the things you have accomplished since you started here at Hogwarts," Severus sneered.

"Oh, Merlin," Harry rolled her eyes, looking at the night sky reflected in the enchanted ceiling, "he's back in the nasty Potion Master Snape mode."

Sirius and Remus both laughed, and Snape scowled down at her, dark eyes glittering.

"If I were you Miss Potter I would remember that the nasty Potion Master is your supervisor and will be keeping a good eye on you," he scowled, giving her his best glare.

"Sorry, Sev, but you can't get to me anymore. I know you too well. Save it for the first years," Harry remarked, grinning.

"I might remind you that I have no first year classes."

"No, but I do. If I read my schedule properly I have a Potions class first thing in the morning and you will be monitoring it since you don't have any class until ten."

"Then perhaps I should give my little speech so they don't give you any trouble."

"I am sure I will not need you to help me control the class. You can just sit there and glare happily," she smirked.

"She told you, Severus," Sirius barking laugh informed him.

"If I were you, Black, I would worry about what Charms you will be teaching rather than something which doesn't concern you."

"Everything Harry does concerns me," Sirius shot back.

"Now both of you behave," Harry interrupted, "or I will just have to tie you both up again. Only this time you will have to sit and listen to one of Albus little speeches on the merits of ten pin bowling and chamber music!"

Sirius groaned and Severus scowl deepened. Dumbledore had overheard the conversation and leaned over watching them with amusement.

"I shall be happy to accommodate you should the need arise, Harry." His blue eyes twinkled merrily.

"I will keep you informed of the situation Headmaster. By the way, I would like to learn how to bowl. Would you like to show me some time?"

"Marvelous!" he beamed. "We shall make a date to go to the bowling alley in Hogsmead."

"I didn't know they had one," Harry commented.

"It is on the far side of the village. The alley is only a small one, but I think you will enjoy it."

"Then why don't we make it a date and bring my protectors along with us. We don't get to have too much fun these days. I could use a break from my worries about what is going on with the war starting up again."

"Excellent idea!" Sirius exclaimed, delighted at the dark look on Severus face. "I would love an afternoon with Harry. We haven't all spent too much time together as a group lately. I would like to see her smiling and relaxed."

"Here! Here," Remus agreed raising his glass in agreement.

"It is settled then. We shall go the first Hogsmead weekend."

"Oh, I am having lunch that day with Hermione and Arsinoe," Harry frowned.

"Then we will all lunch together at the Three Broomsticks and then Hermione and Arsinoe can do some shopping while we all go bowling," Dumbledore commented. He knew Harry wanted some time alone with her three protectors.

"I am afraid, Headmaster, that..."

"No excuses, Severus," Dumbledore said sternly. "This is for Harry. We will all have a grand time."

"Yes, Sir," the younger man acquiesced. Harry noted his scowl deepen as he reached for a piece of baked ham.

"I should think you would enjoy some free time with me?" she whispered.

"I dislike bowling and as for spending free time together I should prefer if it were just the two of us."

"Humph, she may be your soul mate, but she cares about all of us. Did you ever think it makes her happy when we're all together?"

"Eavesdropping again, Black?"

"Not really, since I am sitting right next to her and can hear every word."

"Please...stop...both of you. I don't like it when you both act like this." Harry looked from one to the other frowning.

"I'm sorry, Harry. I was merely trying to tell you that sometimes I prefer to be alone with you. I did not mean to get into it with Sirius." Severus face softened at seeing her becoming distressed.

"Me too. You know I just like to bait Severus." Sirius gave her a quick wink. "I apologize, Severus. I think we should all spend time both as a group and give Harry some individual time too outside of her additional studies."

"I think that is a marvelous idea.," Lupin chimed in. "I would like to take Harry to dinner one night. That is if she would like to go."

"I would love it, but will the Headmaster let me leave the grounds with things so tense?"

"So long as I know where you two are going," Dumbledore answered, looking at Lupin down the table.

"I will let you know. I think an emergency Portkey might be useful for all of us when we are away from Hogwarts," Remus added, smiling at Harry.

"I shall arrange them," Dumbledore agreed.

"You know, Remus, Harry was right," Sirius commented looking at his friend with amusement, "you really are a wolf in sheep's clothing. Severus and I didn't even get a chance to ask her to go anywhere and here you have already made a date for dinner."

"It's hardly a date. We haven't even decided when to go yet." Lupin replied with a boyish smile.

"Then how about this Saturday evening," Harry inquired, green eyes glowing with delight.

"Seven o'clock good for you, Princess?"

"I will be ready."

Sirius growled low in his throat, but his eyes were dancing. Severus merely looked disgruntled, but didn't say a word. Harry could sense he wanted to ask her out, but would not do so in front of the others.

"I think Severus is jealous," Sirius whispered loud enough for his old rival to hear.

"If Harry chooses to go to dinner with Lupin it is her business," he snapped.

"Well then I am going to ask her to go with me too," Sirius replied. "Harry would you like to go with me to dinner on the following Friday evening?"

"It would be my pleasure so long as we go on your motorcycle."

"Ah...an evening out and a wild ride under the stars. I shall pick you up at six."

"Humph...can't you do better than that Black?" Severus scowled, not giving him a chance to reply, turning his attention to Harry as the desserts appeared on the table. "Miss Potter," he addressed her formally, "would you do me the honor of accompanying me to a concert of the London Symphony on the twentieth of September? I believe the moon will be full so your other protectors will be otherwise engaged."

"I would be thrilled, Severus," Harry answered, glancing at Sirius and Remus. Neither seemed to be offended by his remark about the full moon.

"Then I shall arrange for the tickets. It is a Saturday evening."

"Ah...I wish I could accompany you both," Dumbledore interrupted, "but I shall be otherwise occupied with Order business."

"Will you be having a meeting, Headmaster? Severus and I could go another time."

"No, Child, to both your questions. I am expecting some new information to arrive at that time. I shall make sure you both have Portkeys and that the Aurors are notified. I promise they will not get in your way."

"Thank you, Headmaster." Severus nodded knowing the need for additional protection away from Hogwarts.

They finished their desserts and were relaxing when Dumbledore stood up once again.

"Now that we have all eaten I have a few more announcements. First, I need not remind the older students that the Forbidden Forest is just that. It is more dangerous than ever and anyone venturing in will be severely punished. Mr. Filch has also asked me to remind all students that no magic is to be preformed in the hallways, ever!" The students snickered quietly, as Dumbledore's eyes twinkled. I would also like to congratulate this year's Head Boy and Girl, Mr. Colin Creevy from Gryffindor and Miss Luna Lovegood from Ravenclaw." The hall erupted into cheers, and Harry noted that Luna was wearing an odd hat with a pelican on top. She had pinned her badge to its huge bill. "Now I have a serious subject which it is my sad duty to discuss. Lord Voldemort has returned once again through the use of some very dark magic in the form of Necromancy." A shudder passed through the Great Hall, all eyes on Dumbledore. "Hogsmead weekends will continue for third years and up, but I reserve the right to cancel them without notice. The war has started anew and it is imperative that we all continue to work together as we did last year. Heed the warning of the Sorting Hat. We only had a short reprieve from the dark times. I urge you all to use caution. Remember, it will be up to you to choose whether to do what is easy or what is right. I fear some of you may still take the wrong path. Think about your actions and their consequences before you decide whether you will stay in the light, for the path to darkness will lead to nothing but misery and heartbreak. That will be all. You are dismissed. Sleep well and try not to let the bed bugs bite."

The students erupted into nervous giggles at his final remark, lightening the somber mood somewhat. Harry was about to rise to go to her room when Ginny and Luna approached the Head table.

"Harry...er...Miss Potter," Ginny grinned, "good luck. Mum says to remind you, Ron, and Hermione not to forget to owl her at least once a week."

"I will, Ginny, don't worry."

"Miss Potter, I know you will overcome the obstacles ahead," Luna remarked dreamily. "The phoenix will burn and the dragon will appear in the night sky when the time is right."

"Luna, what are you talking about?"

"What?" Luna blinked her eyes. "Oh it is good to see you, Harry...er...Professor. Good luck." She smiled walking away with an odd expression as the group stared after her.

"Yes...um...Headmaster did Luna just utter a prophecy?"

"I believe so, Harry, but we should not discuss it here. I think we should all go up to my office. Minerva, you should come too, and bring Arsinoe and Mr. Weasley."

"Of course, Albus," Professor McGonagall replied with a worried frown.

The group left through the side door and headed up the stairs to Dumbledore's office but Harry stopped when she reached the second floor.

"Professor Dumbledore, I will be up in a minute. I wish to use my pensive. I want to store the memory of what Luna said before we go into it further."

"Very well, Harry, but I will expect you in my office within fifteen minutes," he instructed. His tone brooked no argument.

"I'll be there," she said, hurrying off towards her room.

Uttering her password, she let herself in, noticing that Snuffles was no longer there. Harry knew that Dobby had been instructed to take the dog down to Hagrid's so she did not worry about it but missed her dog's usual greeting. 'I'll have to go down and visit her as soon as I get the chance," she mused going over to her closet taking out the pensive. Pulling out her wand, Harry concentrated on the memory. Pulling the silver thread from her mind, she placed it in the pensive. She then listened to it again, and a chill ran up her spine. 'The phoenix will burn and the dragon will appear in the night sky when the time is right.' Harry knew this had something to do with Arsinoe and the feathered serpent. She hoped that either Dumbledore or Arsinoe would have some kind of answer to whatever it meant. She didn't take the time to ponder it further though, as she knew the Headmaster was waiting. Locking her room, she hurried off towards the Headmaster's office. She said the password, 'Canary Creams,' and mounted the spiral stairs.

"Come in, Harry," Dumbledore's voice called before she could knock.

Harry entered the office and took a seat on the sofa beside Remus. He poured her a cup of tea from the service that had been set up on the table. She noted that Ron was already there, along with Arsinoe. They were seated on either side of the fireplace. Snape was sitting on the other side of Remus. Sirius and McGonagall had seated themselves in a set of chairs off to the left. Dumbledore was facing them all in a rather overstuffed chair directly in front of the hearth.

"Harry, what is going on?" Ron mouthed silently. He had been on patrol with Tonks when McGonagall found him and was unaware of the evening's events.

"You will be informed shortly, Mr. Weasley," Dumbledore replied without ever having looked over to where Ron was sitting. Ron visibly jumped since he had not said anything aloud. "Harry may just have encountered another prophecy from Miss Lovegood." Dumbledore quickly brought Ron and Arsinoe up to speed since Arsinoe had not overheard what Luna had said. Ron looked stunned and Arsinoe nodded thoughtfully before she spoke.

"I believe you are right, Albus. I have been having visions with the Peyote and keep seeing a Phoenix in the flames, but I do not know what it means."

"Couldn't it just have something to do with Fawkes?" Harry questioned, looking over to where the magnificent Phoenix sat on his perch.

"That doesn't seem likely, Princess, since Luna was speaking directly to you."

"But Remus, Phoenixes burn when they die. If Luna was referring to me, could this be a warning of my death?"

"No!" Sirius shouted. "You mustn't say such things. She also said the dragon would appear in the sky when the time was right."

"Perhaps the dragon she referred to was the constellation, Draco?" Snape remarked quietly, dark eyes fixed on Harry.

"I refuse to believe that Snape!" Sirius jumped up from his chair and began pacing nervously. 'Harry can't die...not now,' he thought frantically. 'She's survived Voldemort this long. If this is a true prophecy it must mean something else.'

"Sirius, sit down," McGonagall told him calmly. "You are jumping to conclusions. We all know that Miss Lovegood is often in a daydream, but that does not mean she has the sight." McGonagall's practical logic seemed to calm Sirius somewhat and he resumed his seat.

"Professor, you are logical as always," Harry remarked giving her a small grin.

"I am merely stating a fact. Has Luna ever given you any indication that she has the sight, Harry? You know her better than any of us."

"Well...I have often wondered what she seems tuned into. She really can be quite odd. On the other hand she has never given me any reason to believe that she can see the future."

"Humph..." Ron snorted, "She's always been more than spacey. Reads the damn Quibbler upside down."

"Just because she can read upside down doesn't mean she's daft. I think it is a rather unique gift," Harry responded.

"I agree with Harry," Dumbledore said, blue eyes twinkling. "It took me some time to learn to read upside down. Miss Lovegood seems to have achieved the talent naturally."

Ron looked at the Headmaster with an expression of shock and Harry just grinned. Everybody knew that Dumbledore was a genius, but he was also a bit eccentric, much like Luna Lovegood. She wondered idly if he had been nicknamed in school, just like Luna. She had come to be known as Looney Luna. Harry had to suppress a giggle when Daffy Dumbledore popped into her head.

"Headmaster, if I may," Snape addressed the older man, who nodded, "Miss Lovegood also said that the time would be right. We may all be jumping to conclusions. If this is a genuine prophecy, it may just be a portent of something good."

"That is entirely possible, Severus. Prophecies are tricky to interpret. Jumping to conclusions can be detrimental. It will do none of us any good to worry about it. We are not even certain if Miss Lovegood is a genuine seer."

"Just the same, Albus, we shouldn't discount the possibility," Remus remarked.

"I think Remus is right," Sirius agreed. "We need to be prepared. If this is a real prophecy we need to figure it out."

"That could take years!" Harry sputtered. "In case you've all forgotten we don't have that kind of time."

"Harry would you like to use the Peyote with me? Perhaps you will be able to see something that I can't. Obviously, Miss Lovegood was imparting something meant for you to know. It is possible you will be able to see it within the flames."

"I...don't know. I don't like the idea of a drug induced vision. It gives me the creeps."

"The choice is yours to make. If you wish to try, we will do so one evening following your lesson. Your protectors can be there if you like."

"I wouldn't mind trying the stuff," Ron remarked. "I wonder if I would see anything."

"If you wish to try I will help you." Arsinoe looked at Ron thoughtfully. "I understand you did well in divination."

"How do you know that?"

"I told her Ron," Dumbledore answered. "When Arsinoe came I needed to fill her in on some of your background and role as Keeper of the Goblet."

"Oh...Why?"

"Because you are able to connect with Harry's mind when she is in trouble. In order to help her I needed to know how that was possible," Arsinoe explained. "It's a different kind of magic than I am used to."

"You know Ron, it might be a good idea for you to try the Peyote," Remus remarked thoughtfully. "You are closer to Harry in a different way than the rest of us. You've been with her through out all of her time here at Hogwarts. You may just see something that the rest of us wouldn't understand."

"Then I will try it, so long as Professor Dumbledore says it's safe."

"You will be in no danger, Ron, so long as you do as Arsinoe instructs."

"I would like to observe," Sirius added. "Someone should watch to make sure everything goes all right along with Arsinoe."

"Then if you're going to be drugged, I am going in with you," Harry stated firmly.

"What for Harry?"

"Even in a trance someone has to watch out for you. I know you Ronald Weasley and your visions may just be something...Ah...rated X. Somebody has to keep you on the straight and narrow for Hermione!"

Harry was almost as red as Ron was as they grinned at each other. Sirius and Remus were laughing aloud and Snape had raised his eyebrow in amusement. McGonagall pursed her lips while Arsinoe shook her head. Professor Dumbledore's eyes were twinkling merrily, his lips curled into a bright smile.

"Then I suggest we all retire for the night. Harry you and Ron are to let Arsinoe know when you wish to try the Peyote. Sirius you may of course attend to help Arsinoe make sure things go as planned.

"Headmaster...Miss Darkmoon...if you would both allow me to assist with the mixture I would be most grateful." Snape looked from one to the other.

"I have no objection, Albus. Professor Snape is a master at his craft and I understand his desire to learn something new."

"Very well, Severus. You may assist. Remus would you like to write down what happens?"

"Sir? They will be in a trance."

"We need to record what they saw before they have time to forget any of it. Sirius you can help too."

"Albus, are you sure there will be no danger to them?"

"I am certain. I used the Peyote many years ago with Arsinoe's grandfather. So long as it is used correctly, they will be in no danger. Arsinoe uses it and is an expert at mixing it and Severus is a master at potions."

"Then it is agreed. Harry let me know when you and Ron wish to try the Peyote so we can be ready."

"How about Sunday afternoon?"

"Is Harry's suggestion good for you, Ron?"

"No. I was going to spend Sunday with Hermione. I have the afternoon off. I would rather she didn't know about this," Ron looked uncomfortable.

"Keeping secrets from her already, Ron?" Sirius teased.

"Not really. I just know she will worry about what is going on."

"I agree with Ron. Hermione will go crazy."

"Won't she be more upset that you both kept it from her?" McGonagall questioned.

Harry and Ron both squirmed uncomfortably. Hermione would be furious with them for even doing this.

"I believe she will agree with the need to try," Arsinoe remarked thoughtfully. "She is a very intelligent young woman with a keen desire to learn. I think she should be allowed to watch."

"Who's gonna tell her?" Ron asked nervously. He knew Hermione's wrath when she was angry.

"I will, Mr. Weasley," McGonagall stated. "She will not become as upset if she hears it from me. I will tell her we need to try it in an effort to unravel Miss Lovegood's potential prophecy before the next meeting of the Order."

"Thank you Minerva." Harry beamed at the older witch. She knew that Hermione had been her favorite student while they were in school.

"Then it is all settled. We shall meet here in my office on Sunday at two. Arsinoe if you will stay for a few moments with Minerva I would like to discuss your classes," Dumbledore said to the two older witches. "In the mean time Harry, try not to worry. You have to concentrate on teaching and the extra studies you are pursuing with Severus and Arsinoe." He dismissed them with a wave of his hand.

"I'll try," Harry replied, as the group rose and headed out the door.

Ron turned in the opposite direction after bidding them good night since he had to finish his patrol with Tonks. Harry walked back to her room with Sirius. He had put his arm around her waist protectively and Harry noted that he seemed lost in thought. Remus was following behind them with Severus.

"Harry, are you all right with this?" Sirius questioned.

"You mean trying the Peyote?"

"Yes, you don't have to do it if you don't want to."

"I know, but maybe there is something to it. Dumbledore and Arsinoe seem to think so," Harry responded uncertainly.

"Nevertheless, divination is an imprecise form of magic. All those prophecies stored in the Department of Mysteries should tell you that. Many have been studied for years and still people don't understand them."

"Black is right, Harry," Snape remarked from behind them, "and you will be under a drug induced vision. What you see may not be a true vision at all, merely the effects of the narcotic."

"I agree," Remus added, "you may see things you wish to see or things you fear unconsciously."

"Hmm...Almost like a Boggart tapping into my brain."

"Exactly! It may not be a real vision at all, just your own fears and desires manifesting themselves from the drug," Remus answered, grinning as he remembered teaching her during her third year.

"Well it won't hurt to try. I would rather have a drug-induced vision than the ones I have when Voldemort and I link minds. Maybe I can find out what he's up to before it happens."

"Still love, I don't want you to do something just because you may feel pressured to do it. Voldemort has been quiet since the episode in the forest. He may be lying low for awhile," Sirius suggested.

"He's not," she responded flatly. "It's only been a few days and even though I haven't had any more nightmares, my scar has been prickling."

"Harry why didn't you tell us this sooner?" Sirius demanded.

"I don't want you to worry. It's happened before you know."

"Princess, promise us you will tell us immediately if you have any nightmares."

"Remus, you and Sirius are directly across the hall, and I usually wake up screaming anyway. Severus can be here in a matter of minutes via the secret passageway from the dungeon, so the point is moot."

"And if you don't wake up screaming, Potter, what then?"

"Then, Severus, I will wake you all up. I don't like to be alone after I have those dream connections. The last one was the worst one ever. I think it has something to do with his return."

"You did say it was more like you were there. That you actually witnessed his resurrection as it was going on," Snape mused.

"Yeah, that's what was so weird. Arsinoe thinks I may have had some sort of astral projection."

"She may be right, although it is rare," Remus concurred, "unfortunately we may never know for certain unless it happens again."

"Well I for one hope it doesn't," Harry pouted.

"Would you like one of us to stay for awhile while you fall asleep?" Sirius asked when they had reached her door.

"No, I'll be all right. I miss Snuffles though. I sort of got used to her company."

"I could fill in." Sirius grinned, transforming.

"Now Padfoot, any other time I would love for you to stay, but there are students in the building."

"That never seemed to matter before," he replied, taking on his human shape. He met her gaze, brown eyes studying her intently.

"We weren't both teachers then and I was still underage. The godfather keeping an eye on his charge won't work anymore," she laughed, blushing. 'God I wish I weren't such a prude. If Sirius knew how much I wished he would stay and just snog with me...' Harry blushed at the thought. She was happy he was back to paying her so much attention and her heart was beating fast. 'I wonder if Moony can sense what I am feeling about Sirius, or if he can hear my heart racing?'

"One of us could remain in the hall for awhile," Snape interjected, dark eyes glittering. Harry could sense his was jealous.

"Princess, I would be happy to sit with you too. This way we would all be with you and could say we were just giving you advice on how to conduct your classes."

"Honestly, you three, I will be fine. Now I would like to go to bed," Harry asserted opening her door. "So please don't worry."

"All right then, Honey, just remember to wake us if you need us," Sirius replied.

"I promise I will, and if you hear any moans just ignore them. It will only be me having erotic dreams," she joked.

Ducking into her room with a chuckle, Harry closed the door before they could say anything more, but their expressions had been priceless. Severus had blinked and both eyebrows had shot up, Sirius roared with laughter, and Moony turned red, giving her a low howl. If she hadn't been in such a hurry she would have seen Sirius look at Remus and Severus. Taking a fast shower Harry crawled into bed. She had no idea they were waiting for her to fall asleep. Her protectors would not let her off so easily.

Harry slept fitfully with odd dreams, which she couldn't define. They were full of shadowy figures, and occasional flashes of red light. However she couldn't see what was going on, and they did not turn into full-blown nightmares. She awoke with a start at about three in the morning. Her mouth was dry, and she needed to go to the bathroom. Slipping from the bed she padded towards the loo, when she became aware of another presence in the room. Turning abruptly, she spotted two eyes glowing in the dark, reflected in the dim moonlight light shining through the window. Someone or something was in the chair of her sitting room. Harry froze in her tracks, cursing herself for not having her wand, when she realized the outline was that of a large black dog. He thumped his tail softly in greeting.

"Padfoot! You damn near scared me half to death," she admonished. "I see telling you I didn't need a babysitter didn't faze any of you in the least. Where are the other two?"

"Sleeping, I expect," Sirius informed her transforming. "We took shifts. I will be here for a while, Miss Wings. I only relieved Moony a few minutes ago, and he relieved Severus. I hope we didn't wake you."

"No, I need to use the loo," she answered, turning to go into the bathroom. Harry noted that Sirius had transformed back into Padfoot when she came out. He was lying languidly on her sofa. He cocked his head and appeared to be giving her a sly smile. She just shook her head and climbed back into her bed. She lay awake, with her back towards the sitting room for a few minutes and then gave in. He had to be uncomfortable on the sofa. "Come on, Padfoot," she called softly, patting the bed next to her. "You might as well be comfortable since I know you aren't going to leave." A minute later she felt the big dog climb onto the bed beside her.

"Thanks, love," he whispered, having transformed once again. "You smell nice." He kissed her hair.

"New shampoo," she mumbled sleepily, as he put his arm around her, and molded his body to conform with hers.

Harry was acutely aware of his presence and wanted to turn and look at him, but held back. She knew that if she did she would either make a fool of herself or end up doing more than snogging. She suspected he knew it too, so she took his hand from where it was resting around her, and held onto it affectionately. He kissed her again, and she relaxed beside him, allowing sleep to claim her once again. This time her dreams were filled with Sirius laughing face and she did not wake until her alarm sounded, jarring her back to reality. The bed beside her was cold and she almost believed he had not been there except for a piece of black fur that had stuck to the blanket before he had transformed. Dressing quickly in a set of dark green robes to off set her eyes she pulled her hair up in a chignon and applied some light make up, studying her face in the mirror.

"You look lovely," her mirror remarked, "much nicer than the other teachers."

"Humph, I'll bet Arsinoe looks better."

"Ah...well...Miss Darkmoon is a beautiful woman, but you still outshine her. She does not have the aura of innocence that you do."

"I'll take your word for it," Harry stated turning away from the mirror. "Let's just hope the students don't take innocence for stupidity," Harry called over her shoulder as she left the room. Making her way down to the Great Hall she took her seat at the head table. She noted that none of her protectors were present and concluded that Sirius and Remus were probably sleeping in as they did not have early classes. Severus had probably already eaten since he was an early riser. As she mulled this over, Hagrid came in and took a seat beside her.

"Harry, I 'ave not seen ya too much. I 'ave been busy gettin' the critters ready fer Professor Lupin. How 'ave ya been?"

"Fine, Hagrid." She beamed up at the half giant. "I'm sorry I haven't been down to visit, but I have been really busy myself."

"No problem. I expect we'll be seein' quite a bit o' one another now that yer teaching 'ere."

"Me too. It will be almost as if Hermione, Ron and me had never graduated."

"Yup, and now ye'll be able to come down any ol' time ya want without 'aving to worry 'bout gettin' detention. Not that that ever stopped ya before."

"No, it didn't. That is the advantage of owning an invisibility cloak," she laughed. "Have you spoken with Ron and Hermione yet?"

"I saw Ron with Tonks on patrol and Hermione stopped by with 'im just before I left to come ta the castle. They were out fer an early mornin' walk. She said she was too excited to eat, it bein' 'er first day an' all."

"Well I have an early morning Potions class so I am going to eat something before I have to deal with a group of first years and Severus at the same time. He will be observing."

Hagrid laughed jovially, and they continued to chat for a while over breakfast and he filled her in on what he was up to. Phaedra was starting school in the village and he needed to see Dumbledore for his final instructions. It turned out the Headmaster was taking breakfast with the Snapes this morning to make sure Phaedra was not too nervous before sending her off. Some of the other teachers had come down while she was talking to Hagrid and were engaged in conversations with one another. Hagrid stayed for a little longer before excusing himself to go and see the Headmaster and fetch Phaedra off to school. Harry finished her coffee before deciding it was time to go and meet her first year class. She was just leaving the Great Hall when Professor McGonagall came in, stopping her.

"Harry, I just want to wish you good luck with Severus. I just ran into him coming down from saying good-bye to his niece. He is in one of his moods this morning."

"When is he not?" she laughed.

"I think he didn't sleep too well last night."

"It's possible; he's had a lot on his mind lately." Harry didn't tell her he had stayed up part of the night guarding her. "We all have. Thanks for the warning though."

"I will see you later. You have a third year class this afternoon after lunch."

"Don't remind me. These kids may be even tougher than facing Voldemort," she quipped. McGonagall flinched at the name, but smiled in amusement, as Harry headed off to go to the dungeons.

As she neared the Potions classroom in the dungeons Harry could hear the first years talking animatedly amongst themselves. She had deliberately waited to enter the class until after they had all arrived. She also noted that Severus was waiting in the hall. Her stomach was doing flip-flops and she wasn't certain what made her more nervous, teaching the class of first year Gryffindors and Slytherins, or the fact that Severus would be observing. She nodded as he stepped beside her without saying anything and they entered the classroom together.

"Settle down, class, we aren't here to socialize," Harry stated firmly as she made her way towards the front of the room. Severus had gone into his office but he had kept the door open. "You will not need your wands for this class. Potion making is a subtle science. Whether you become a skilled potion maker or are just limited to basic household and medicinal potions makes no difference. Each of you is here to learn how you will best be able to use this skill later on after you finish school. I will brook no nonsense and expect you all to follow my direction. There is a certain danger involved in potion making and I have no desire to be sending any of you up to the infirmary. A melted down cauldron will cost your house ten points. Is that understood?"

"Yes Miss," the class chorused nervously.

"Good. I will go through the register and then you will be paired with a partner of my choosing. After which, the class rules will be placed on the blackboard. I will expect you to have them memorized by your next class as there will be a quiz." The students audibly groaned but Harry ignored them and continued. "No one will be permitted to mix a single potion until they have attained a minimum grade of "B" on the quiz. At the end of class I will answer any questions you may have."

Harry then sat down and called out the names of the individual students. She gave Lee Chang a brief smile when she called his name. She also noted that there was an Amanda Weasley, whom she knew to be a second cousin of her friends. In the Slytherin group she found a Mariah Flint, who bore a distinct resemblance to the former student, Marcus Flint. There was also a set of twins, Peter and Peregrine Parkinson. She suspected they were related to Pansy. Once she had completed this register, she set about pairing them off, one Gryffindor to one Slytherin.

"Why do I have to work with him?" Mariah Flint objected when seated with her partner, Jules Abercrombie. "He's a Muggleborn!" She hissed in abhorrence.

"In this class everyone is either a witch or a wizard, Miss Flint. There will be no talk of whether a person is Muggleborn, Half-blood, or Pureblood," Harry said sharply. "Do you understand?" Snape had come to the door to watch.

"Yes, Miss Potter," she huffed taking her seat. "Filthy Mudblood," she muttered under her breath looking at Jules as soon as Harry turned around to flick her wand at the board. She was unaware that Harry had overheard her.

"Miss Flint," Harry stated spinning around, "I expect you to apologize to Mr. Abercrombie immediately," she knew the Slytherins were testing her, and Snape was watching with a sneer.

"I apologize, Mudblood," she stated looking at Harry with a smirk amid giggles from some of the other Slytherins.

"That will be one hundred points from Slytherin," Miss Flint, "and you will do detention on Saturday with Professor McGonagall. I will not tolerate any form of discrimination or house rivalry in this class. Do you understand me?" Harry questioned menacingly.

"Yes, Miss Potter," she replied looking over at Snape, who was glaring at her for the huge amount of points she had cost their house.

Harry suspected he was also going to hit the roof with her, but didn't care. The war was starting anew and she didn't need a class full of junior Deatheaters.

"I might also remind you that I will be teaching both of your houses again on Thursday for Transfiguration and this same rule will apply there as well! Now get to work and start copying the class rules." The students immediately started to write, but Harry noted the delighted looks on some of the young Gryffindors. She had to stop that as well. "I also will not stand for the smug looks I see from those of you in my former house. Twenty five points from Gryffindor!" The Gryffindors looked a bit shocked, and Snape went back into his office. Harry knew he would complain to Dumbledore about how many points she had docked his house, but she didn't care. It was imperative that the students work together. She wondered idly if she sounded a bit too much like Severus, but decided that she was at least trying to be impartial. He never did. The rest of the class went smoothly and she allotted the last half hour for any questions they might have, as promised.

"Miss Potter, Er...this doesn't really have anything to do with the class...but...Um...do you really...Uh...have a scar like a lightening bolt?" A shy boy by the name of Scott Moody questioned.

"Yes, Mr. Moody, I do," she sighed pushing her bangs away from her forehead. There was an audible intake of breath amongst some of them. "Now that I have answered that question I have one I wish to give you."

"What is that?" he asked eyes wide with awe.

"Are you related to Alastor,"Mad Eye," Moody?"

"Yes, Miss Potter, he's my great-great uncle, but I don't really know him well."

"He's a good man," she nodded. "Now does anybody have any other questions?"

"I do," Mariah Flint spoke up loudly, "have you really dueled with the Dark Lord or is it just a lot of crap put out to make you look good?"

"I have, Miss Flint, and in view of the fact that Voldemort is once again causing havoc I believe I will have to do so again. Perhaps when that happens you would like to be there?" Harry remarked shrewdly. The girl may be outspoken but she had visibly gasped at Harry's use of Voldemort's name and sunk down in her seat. "Now if there are any questions in relation to this class I should like to hear them."

Several of the students were anxious about the quiz and she reassured them that if they did their homework and studied they should have no problems. They were also curious about what kinds of potions they would be making and Harry gave them a brief description. Two Muggle born girls grimaced about having to chop up salamanders, newts, and various innards, but didn't say anything. Finally, Harry assigned the class a foot of parchment for homework. They were all to write out the safety rules and then give a brief synopsis of what they thought Potions would be like. She then dismissed the class. As soon as the room was empty, she sat back with a sigh of relief. Severus entered from his office without a sound.

"One hundred points, Potter? Surely you were being a bit over zealous?" He glared at her.

"You could have interrupted at any time, Professor. Besides, I was not going to let them get the better of me. In case you missed it a certain Dark Lord is again in our midst and I am fairly certain her family still remains loyal to him."

"It would be unwise to think anything else," Severus agreed, "however I still think it was a bit harsh in view of the fact you only docked Gryffindor twenty five."

"If you had been the teacher Slytherin would not have lost any points and Gryffindor still would have. I have a long memory, Severus."

"Oh, are you playing at getting even now, Miss Potter?"

"No Sev, I'm not. I just don't want all the work I did last year to get the houses to work together to fall apart," Harry sighed. "I had to make a point with them. They really have no idea how much danger there is."

Severus placed his hand on Harry's shoulder, looking down into her eyes. "No, Harry they don't. Nevertheless I still think the deducted points were excessive."

"Look, I'm not going to fight with you. If you want to be stubborn about it we can let Albus decide."

"No, that won't be necessary," he grinned evilly. "Now, I have to go. I have the fourth year Defense Against the Darks Arts class with Gryffindor and Slytherin." He spun on his heels and headed for the door.

"Severus," Harry called after him, "please don't do what I suspect is in your mind. They have to learn to work together!" Snape ignored her plea. Harry stared after him for a few minutes and then gathered her papers and headed off towards the Transfiguration classroom to prepare for her next group, scheduled in half an hour.

Her Transfiguration class was a much better experience, as it was Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw. They were avid students and once past the fact that Harry was the instructor the class went smoothly. It was easier in that they were also third years. Harry enjoyed their enthusiasm and was more than eager to answer their questions. She had been smiling for most of the class since there was a gray tabby cat sitting beneath her desk. She knew Professor McGonagall was trying to keep her from feeling intimidated by her presence and was more than grateful. As Harry was winding up and assigning homework, the cat came out and jumped onto the desk. The students were surprised, and some laughed while others looked nervous. They were all aware that it was the Deputy Headmistress.

"Well third years, it looks like we have had a visitor," Harry laughed. "It was nice of you to join us Professor."

"It was a pleasure to be here, Miss Potter," McGonagall replied after transforming to the delight of the students.

Harry knew that the older witch was giving her a compliment and was pleased with the way she had handled the class.

"Thank you, Professor," she answered as one of the Hufflepuff students raised his hand. "Yes, Mr. Draconius?"

"Miss Potter, we've all heard that you are an animagus too, like Professor McGonagall. Would you transform for us?"

Harry glanced at McGonagall, who nodded.

"Very well, are you all aware of what my animagus form is?"

"I read in the Prophet that you are a Phoenix," Annabel Fortescue, a third year Ravenclaw called out. Her grandfather owned Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor on Diagon Alley.

"You are correct, Miss Fortescue," McGonagall replied. "Go on and show them, Miss Potter. Most of them have never seen a Phoenix."

Harry smiled and transformed. There were Ooh's and Aah's from all over the room. She then spread her wings and flew over to sit on Annabel's desk, delighting the young girl, before flying back to the front of the room and resuming her human form.

"That was amazing!" James Willoughby, another Hufflepuff exclaimed. "I am a Muggleborn, Miss Potter, and didn't even know there really was such a thing as a Phoenix until I came to Hogwarts. "Do you think we'll ever be able to transform?"

"Professor McGonagall will test those of you who are in NEWT level Transfiguration in your seventh year. It is a very rare ability, so don't feel too disappointed if you can't do it. I am the only one from my year who can transform. Now, that said, it's lunchtime. Class dismissed." The students hurriedly gathered their books and wands leaving Harry alone with Professor McGonagall.

"Harry I am more than pleased. You did an excellent job."

Harry beamed, "Thank you Professor. I wish Potions had been as easy."

"I heard about what happened. Severus is in quite a tizzy over those hundred points. The Headmaster summoned him to his office following your class."

"Ouch, I had a feeling that would happen. What did Albus say?"

"He laughed."

"What?!"

"What neither of you knew was that he was there the whole time. You know he doesn't need a cloak to make himself invisible."

"I know," Harry grinned. "So what did Severus say?"

"There was nothing Severus could say other than he felt you were a bit over zealous, but Albus agreed with your handling of the situation. He was quite proud, actually, but don't let him know I told you. I am sure he will want to tell you himself."

"I promise I won't let on."

"Good. Now I am starved, so how about we go on down to the Great Hall and have some lunch." McGonagall steered Harry out of the classroom.

Lunch was an interesting experience. Severus was obviously disgruntled with both Harry and Dumbledore and spoke very little. Sirius was more than jovial, having heard through the school grapevine about Harry's handling of the Slytherins. Remus just shook his head.

"Severus, I heard Harry is giving you a run for your money in the points department," Sirius taunted.

"Hardly," Snape responded curtly. "She is merely inexperienced with a whole class and got a bit carried away."

"Yeah, against the Slytherins." Her godfather gloated.

"Listen, you two, knock it off. I did what I felt was necessary. You're both acting like a couple of prats! We have to keep some semblance of unity, even if it means doing something harsh."

"Well spoken, Harry!" Dumbledore cheered, and both of her protectors raised an eyebrow. "You would both do well to listen to our little Phoenix. She has all of our safety at heart."

"Headmaster, I mean no disrespect, but I still think the points were excessive."

"What's the matter, Snape, can't take your house being treated fairly?" Sirius jibed.

"That's enough, both of you. I'm going out for a walk. I will not listen to two grown men act like a couple of first years," Harry stated annoyed. Throwing down her napkin, she left the Great Hall, Sirius and Severus gaping after her.

Twenty minutes later, they both found her by the lake, watching the giant squid.

"Harry, we've come to apologize," Sirius said, looking at her fondly.

"We were out of line," Snape added. "You were right, I could have interceded when you docked Slytherin the hundred points."

"And you know I love to try and irritate Severus," Sirius grinned. "We both think that you did the right thing, and I shouldn't have taunted Severus the way I did."

"All right, I'll forgive you this time, but don't let it happen again. It makes me happy when I see the two of you getting along. I also don't want Sev to think I took those points out of spite for all the times he would ride me in class."

"I know you didn't, Harry, and I am sorry for being so angry with you after class. Which, by the way, you conducted quite well." He gave her one of his rare smiles. Harry beamed back at her two protectors, as they went back towards the castle. The rest of Harry's day went well, and she took the time to visit Hermione in the library. Her friend was in her element, and Harry could see that she was going to be an excellent librarian. Hermione loved books. She would go far using her knowledge to help others in their quest for information and facts. It had already been invaluable to Harry in her battles with Voldemort. She couldn't know that shortly she would need to rely on Hermione's research abilities again. Events were about to be set in motion which would test Harry's strength of character to its limit.

21