The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Chapter 24

Hippogriffs Quidditch and Christmas

The plans for the Yule Ball had been coming along nicely. Neville had arranged for sprigs of mistletoe to be placed at strategic areas through out the Great Hall and enchanted all the hearths to burn in red and green flames. He had gone with Hagrid personally to supervise cutting six giant fir trees that graced the hall every year. Professor Sprout had enchanted the centerpieces for the tables, which were all made out of holly and poinsettias, to play soft Christmas carols.

Remus was in charge of the decorations and had spent a good deal of time conferring with Dumbledore. He had stayed with the fairy lights so loved by the late Professor Flitwick but decided to decorate four of the trees to correspond with each of the four Hogwarts houses. The Slytherin tree was decorated in silver serpents and green balls with silver garlands. Hufflepuff was done in little badgers with yellow balls and garlands. The tree for Ravenclaw had small ravens nesting through out its branches with blue balls and bronze garland. Finally, the tree for Gryffindor had little griffins with red balls and gold garland. The other two trees, which graced the front of the hall, were also decorated. One was devoted entirely to Quidditch. It was covered in little brooms. Each broom was being ridden by a raven, badger, serpent, or griffin playing Quidditch. The elusive golden snitch could be seen disappearing among the branches while the quaffle flew about with tiny bludgers trying to knock the house symbols from their brooms. The hoops were located at the top of the tree and kept changing to reflect each house color. The last tree was decorated in miniature versions of the castle itself with its lights ablaze and the motto flashing on top.

Harry had been given the most difficult task of all, arranging for the music and planning the food. She had not been happy but for the first time in her life was glad that she was Harry Potter. She knew her name would carry a lot of weight when it came time to hire the musicians. She had contacted a string quartet that was affiliated with the London Wizard's Symphony Orchestra. They were delighted to participate. Three of the four had been graduates of Hogwarts, the fourth from Beaubaxtons. She had also hired the Weird Sisters. The students would have both classical and rock music for the dancing. The popular group was delighted to be asked back again as they all were alumni of the school.

Harry elected to talk with the house elves about the menu for the ball. Appointing Dobby in charge, with Winky as his second in command, they began the arduous task of deciding what to serve. There was to be both fresh and smoked ham, roast turkey, goose, and capons, a selection of fish or venison along with a variety of vegetables. For dessert, there would be French pastries, various puddings, and a cake made in the shape of the castle. She also had them order additional Butterbeer, wine for the adults, an assortment of Muggle soft drinks, and the necessary fruit juices and spiced rum for some punch. Flavored coffees and teas would also be served. The ball was to be held on December twenty-eighth.

Dumbledore had been delighted. His staff and done an exemplary job and it would help to alleviate the fears of the students, most of whom would be staying over the holiday due to the increasing severity of the war.

Voldemort had been active again and the attacks were growing more frequent. He had blown up a small train station in the eastern part of London creating a diversion while the Deatheaters attacked St. Mungo's in an attempt to free Bellatrix. He had been furious by her capture but her injuries had been too serious to be fully healed and she remained partially paralyzed. When he had found her of no further use, his anger had been compounded. Upon learning that Harry had escaped through Bellatrix stupidity Voldemort had been furious with Bellatrix. Rather than use the killing curse, he tortured her to death, dumping her dismembered body in the center of Knockturn Alley, her head mounted on an iron spike, as a warning to all of his supporters. Anyone who cornered Harry and did not bring her to him immediately would be killed.

The Order and the Ministry had been active in their attempts to thwart the Dark Lord. They had been able to stop him from making a planned attack on the Millennium Wheel and the Tower of London. Unfortunately, an attack on the Leaky Cauldron and the crowded Muggle street that hid the entrance to the Pub had gone as planned although five Deatheaters had been captured. Harry had been relieved to know that Tom, the friendly barkeeper had not been injured. The Aurors were being run ragged. However, the populace and the press was impressed with the way the Ministry, under the leadership of Arthur Weasley, was handling the attacks and bringing the Deatheaters in. All Ministry of Magic law enforcement officials were working overtime in an effort to end the war. Unfortunately, Harry knew it was just a matter of time before she and Voldemort would have to face off in battle again, hopefully for the last time. She only prayed that things would go in her favor. She didn't fear death but she did fear that she would be killed before she could stop the Dark Lord's reign of terror. If she failed, countless generations would live under his tyranny, as he would be immortal.

These thoughts plagued her daily and her sleep had been disturbed by violent dreams. Fortunately, they were just that; her unconscious fears coming to the surface. Voldemort had tried to get into her mind but her ability at Occlumency had stopped him each time. She was tired and looking forward to the holiday recess and her protectors understood. Today was the last day of classes and tomorrow was Christmas Eve. The Great Hall would not be opened until the night of the ball. The staff wanted the room to be a surprise. Instead, the students were being sent meals up to their common rooms. There would also be a party for the younger students the afternoon after the ball so they would also be able to enjoy the decorations. There would also be a late feast on New Year's Eve and all students would be allowed to stay up to welcome in the New Year.

Harry was heading up to teach her Transfigurations class following her first year Potions class. It had been a disastrous morning in Double Potions. Mariah Flint and Morgan Blackthorn had tried to sabotage Lee Chang's Boil Cure Potion by adding additional porcupine quills before it was removed from the fire. The meltdown and acid green smoke and been made worse since there were too may quills. Lee had been covered in red boils and severely burned, and several other Gryffindors and Slytherins had been splashed with the mixture, resulting in ruined clothing and a number of boils. Harry reacted swiftly, pulling the students out of harms way with a summoning charm while Severus stormed in from his office and banished the noxious fluids and acid green smoke. Unfortunately, for Mariah and Morgan, they had chosen the wrong Gryffindor for their plans. Lee was well liked, even among the Slytherins. Their own house members had informed on them. Severus had been livid with anger. Harry dismissed the class and brought the injured students to the infirmary while Snape brought the two culprits up to Dumbledore's office. They had been shaking with fear from the look on Severus' face. Harry had taken the time to assist Madam Pomfrey heal the children and they were all released from the infirmary with the exception of Lee Chang. His injuries would take at least two days to finish healing and Poppy had praised Harry for her swift actions. If she had not acted so quickly Lee would have been scarred for life. Harry had been embarrassed by the praise. After promising to come and help more often to obtain the necessary credit towards her Healer's license she left to join Severus in the Headmaster's office.

Dumbledore was not happy with the two young Slytherins and Morgan had broken down under his stare. Mariah, while frightened, had been stubbornly defiant and tried to blame Morgan for the whole event. The two erupted into a shouting match, which the Headmaster silenced immediately. Of course, he already knew what had happened. He always did. Harry merely recanted the events. Snape had sensed something wrong from his office, which had prompted him to get up in the first place.

"Headmaster, I see no other alternative but expulsion," Snape sneered angrily.

Harry had not seen him this mad in a long time. The students had still been working together for the good of the school and this was not a good sign.

"Nevertheless, Severus, the final decision will be mine. I shall make note of your recommendation." Dumbledore looked at the two students over his half moon spectacles. "I wish to speak with Professor Potter. You two are to go back to your common rooms and stay there until Professor Snape sends for you."

"Y...Yes...Head...master," Morgan stuttered, flying towards the door. Mariah followed, glaring defiantly back over her shoulder only lowering her eyes when they met Dumbledore's.

"Harry, do you believe they should be expelled?"

"I think, Headmaster," Harry sighed, "that Morgan Blackthorn was put up to this by Mariah..."she pursed the lips thoughtfully before continuing, "and he should be given some sort of detention and appropriate house points deducted."

"And Miss Flint, what are your feelings there?" Dumbledore questioned seriously, blue eyes intense.

"She's very young, Headmaster. Perhaps she can yet be saved from the darkness." Harry looked over at Snape, shifting uncomfortably. His dark eyes were unreadable but she could feel his anger...and...distress.

"Headmaster, might I remind you that Miss Flint's father was a staunch supporter of the Dark Lord."

"I am aware of your concerns, Severus. However, Lucius Malfoy is also a follower of Lord Voldemort, yet Draco found his way back to the light, as you yourself did."

Severus lowered his eyes.

Harry's mind was whirling with memories. She could hear Snape yelling at Ron and her telling them, 'Most unfortunately, you are not in my house, but if it were up to me you would be on the train home tonight!' This had occurred in the beginning of their second year when they had crashed Ron's father's car into the Whomping Willow after missing the train. Dobby had sealed the gateway to the platform to prevent her from returning to Hogwarts. She was also remembering how Hermione had almost been expelled in their sixth year when she had succumbed to Lord Voldemort and betrayed her to protect her family. Harry did not like Mariah Flint, but she also was at a loss as to what to do about her deliberate attack on another student. She did not want her personal dislike of the girl to influence her decision.

"Harry, do you wish to voice an opinion on this matter?" Dumbledore had seen the variety of expressions, which had crossed her face. Since the incident had happened in her class, he was interested to hear what she had to say.

"Headmaster, I think that as Severus is her Head of House this should be his decision along with yours. However, if I may make a suggestion, I think I may have a solution which might work." Harry glanced over at Severus who nodded his assent and she continued. "I think expulsion at this time is not a good idea. Her family is affiliated with the Dark Lord and like you said before, people can change."

"So what is your point, Harry?" Severus demanded curtly.

"I think she should be put on probation. It might be a good idea to make her work with the students who have Muggle backgrounds. Let's see if she is capable of forming her own opinions despite her present prejudices. If she persists in her behaviors and any other incidents occur then yes, expulsion would be necessary. We have all worked too hard on getting the four houses to work in unison to let one selfish child ruin it."

"Do you honestly believe she will change, Harry?" Dumbledore speculated.

"Severus and Draco did." Harry locked eyes with her soul mate.

"Severus, are you agreeable to Harry's plan?"

"If there is an appropriate detention to go along with it and she will have to lose house points." He scowled bitterly at his house having to lose further points. They were in last place for the house cup already, mostly due to the Flint girl.

"Very well then," Dumbledore beamed pleased with the outcome, "I believe fifty points from Miss Flint and twenty five from Mr. Blackthorn will do. Severus I leave it to you to determine their detentions and arrange for Miss Flint to work with the Muggle born students from all houses."

"Then I shall go and speak to the two of them now and make the necessary arrangements with the other Heads of House. I believe you finally appointed Lupin to head Ravenclaw?" Snape's familiar sneer crossed his lips.

"You asked Remus?" Harry perked up at this bit of information beaming at Dumbledore.

"Yes, although he has not yet firmly accepted the post but I believe he will."

"Severus, when you speak to him tell him that if he refuses I'll be very disappointed in him." She shook her head adamantly.

"Why don't you tell him yourself?"

"I have to go and teach my next class."

"I can have Minerva cover for you for a few minutes," Dumbledore smiled. "Go on with Severus. I believe Professor Lupin is teaching his third year class at the moment. He is showing them a certain hippogriff," Dumbledore explained, blue eyes twinkling.

"Good old Buckbeak," she laughed rising. "Well don't just stand there Severus, let's go!" Snape rolled his eyes following Harry out of the office.

They made their way through the castle in silence until they reached the second floor corridor when Severus finally spoke.

"You made a very adult decision in the Headmaster's office. I am proud of the way you considered your feelings towards Miss Flint."

"Was it that obvious that I don't like her?"

"Not really, but I have been watching how she likes to test you during class. You have been very patient with her. I can see you have been holding back."

"Severus..." Harry began tentatively, unsure of whether she should broach what was on her mind.

"What is it Harry? You know I don't like nonsensical questions."

"If I ask you something will you answer me truthfully?" She stopped and looked up at him.

"If it's within my power to do so."

"Did you dislike me as much as I do Mariah Flint?" The words came out in a rush and Harry wanted to kick herself for being so blunt. Severus just stared down at her making her feel like she was back in one of his classes. He was studying her so intently she had to drop her eyes. "Never mind, it was a stupid question," she finally muttered.

"Then why did you ask it?" he queried gripping her arm.

"I...guess I... just needed some kind of explanation."

"Very well then I shall answer your question," he stated holding her tighter. "I believed you to be like your father. I let myself be blinded by my dislike for him so I took out my petty animosity on you. I hated him, therefore I hated you."

"I see."

"No, you don't," he scoffed harshly. "I failed to judge you as a person. It was a mistake that will not happen again."

"Do you still hate my father?"

"I am trying to keep an open mind. Now let's get down and see Lupin. It would be unfair to keep Minerva waiting." He let go of her arm and wheeled about, black robes swirling as he strode purposefully down the stairs.

Harry followed in his wake racing to keep up. It was not the answer she had wanted to hear but it would have to do. At least Severus had been honest with her. She knew it had pained him to do so.

Reaching Hagrid's cottage they found Remus in the back paddock. He was explaining the nature of hippogriffs and their diet. He looked up in surprise as Harry and Severus approached.

"It seems we have visitors," he addressed the class. "Good day Professor Snape and you too, Professor Potter." He smiled mischievously at Harry. "What can I do for you both?"

"I need to have a private word with you. We have a message from the Headmaster," Snape answered. Remus arched his brow in surprise. "Give me a moment then." He turned to address the class. "No one is to approach the hippogriff without me being here. I want you all to line up and wait. I will then show you the proper manner in which to approach the hippogriff."

The students did as they were told as Remus stepped to the side to speak with Harry and Severus.

"The Headmaster has asked me to speak with each Head of House to set up a schedule for one of my Slytherin's to work with the Muggle born students," Snape advised briskly.

"I haven't yet accepted the position as head of Ravenclaw."

"I accepted it for you, Remus Lupin. You are one of the best teachers here and if I recall correctly you were almost placed into Ravenclaw yourself. You're smart, kind, and fair and those qualities are hard to find. Besides it affords you a permanent position here on staff." Harry crossed her arms over her chest, defiantly sticking out her chin practically daring Remus to argue.

"Harry it's not that I don't want to do it. You have to understand..."

"What, that you're a werewolf. Everyone here knows that. The student's parents all know it too and they sing your praises as a teacher. You think these kids don't tell them what an excellent teacher you are?"

"Have you considered what the Ministry will say, not to mention the Board of Governors."

"Arthur Weasley is the Minister of Magic and a great number of the Board just happens to be members of the Order. They will be delighted knowing you're not only teaching their children but also helping to protect them. Besides, maybe it will help people to understand that you aren't some kind of a wild animal. You're a human being that just happens to have a monthly affliction. Hell, you could say the same thing about most of the females in the entire school!" Harry exclaimed feeling the redness creep up her cheeks.

"Harry is right, Lupin, and if you attempt to argue with her I suspect she will have no qualms about hexing you into the next century. Especially if it is close to the time for her monthly affliction, as she so succinctly put it."

"Princess, I'm flattered that you have such faith in my ability."

"Listen, Remus, when I thought we had lost Sirius through that veil you were the only one who could offer me any true comfort. You never make rash decisions and you are a good listener. If those aren't qualities to make you a good Head of House I don't know what is. Just try it. If you think you're not up to it I'm sure Albus will understand."

"Very well," he sighed, "I see there is no arguing with either one of you. Which student and exactly what happened?"

Severus proceeded to tell Remus about the incident in potions while Harry looked on. Remus looked thoughtful and nodded. He said he would select a student later on this evening after conferring with Dumbledore to determine who would be the best candidate and get back to Severus by tomorrow morning. Both men agreed that it should be someone that she was familiar with though and close to her own age.

While they were talking Harry's mind began to wander back to that fateful night where she and Hermione had helped Sirius make his daring escape on Buckbeak. The hippogriff must have sensed her mood and she looked up suddenly to see his large orange eyes looking over at her. Walking over to the paddock, she addressed Remus' students.

"Since Professor Lupin is otherwise occupied at the moment would any of you like to meet Buckbeak?"

"Who's Buckbeak?" A young boy named James Portsmouth questioned. He was in Gryffindor.

"The hippogriff, of course, Mr. Portsmouth." Harry grinned.

"Professor Lupin said not to go near him." Sally McAllister from Ravenclaw remarked nervously.

"How about if I demonstrate? This way when he comes back you will have an idea of what will be expected and can ask him any questions you may have."

"Sounds neat, Professor!" James Portsmouth stated enthusiastically.

"Is there something special you have to do?" Another Ravenclaw girl, Salina Broommaker questioned.

"Yes. When you approach Buckbeak, you have to bow. Hippogriffs are very proud so you don't want to insult them."

"What happens if you do?" Tyler Skyseeker from Gryffindor asked curiously.

"You see those talons? They may just make mincemeat out of you."

"Ooo..." the girls all gasped, as the boys looked nervously over at the giant beast.

"Now as I was saying, you need to wait for the hippogriff to make the first move. They consider it the polite thing to do. You will walk up slowly and bow."

"Then what?" Sally McAllister asked wide-eyed.

"You wait," Harry replied. She did not see that Remus had moved over to the paddock again and was watching along with Hagrid, who had slipped out his back door. Snape had returned to the castle. "If he bows back, you can touch him."

"What if he doesn't?" Salina asked timidly.

"Then you get out of the way, and make it snappy because those talons are as dangerous as they look. Does anyone want to volunteer to give it a try?"

The group of third year Gryffindors and Ravenclaws looked decidedly nervous. As Harry expected there were no volunteers.

"Why don' yeh show 'em how it's done, Professor?" Hagrid's booming voice came from where he was standing with Professor Lupin. "Yeh 'ave the experience."

"Hagrid, Professor Lupin, I was not aware that you were watching."

"Yeh was doin' right well so we figured we shouldno' interrupt."

"I agree with Hagrid, Professor, why not show them?"

"Er...I have to be getting back. Professor McGonagall is minding my Transfiguration class. I need to go and relieve her."

"Don't worry about it Professor," Remus grinned wickedly. "Professor Snape said he would tell her that I requested your assistance since you are so familiar with Buckbeak."

"I see..." Harry smirked. She was going to kill Remus for this.

"Go ahead, Professor. Show us what to do." James Portsmouth begged.

"Yeah, let's see. Most of us have never seen a real hippogriff before. I'm Muggle born and never even knew they existed until today." Cassie Carlson from Ravenclaw told her.

"It seems I have been voted honorary Care of Magical Creatures instructor for today," Harry laughed. "All right. It's done like this." Harry turned to face Buckbeak. Approaching slowly she bowed and waited. The hippogriff bowed back with a shrill squawk of recognition and Harry moved over to his side, stroking the soft feathers. "See, he is really a darling when you get to know him."

"Why don't you show them how to ride him, Professor?" Remus was clearly enjoying watching her with the hippogriff.

"Go on, Harry. Ol' Buckbeak 'asn't 'ad a good turn round the grounds fer awhile," Hagrid teased. "He ken use the exercise."

"Go on, Professor. I'll volunteer to try if I can see how it's done," James Portsmouth said excitedly, the other students nodding in agreement. They were clearly excited to see Harry Potter fly on the hippogriff.

"I can see that you will all give me no excuse to say no," Harry smiled mounting Buckbeak. "Hagrid, if you will release his tether for me, please?"

"Right, are yeh all set?"

"Sure am," Harry grinned at the gentle half giant. They were both remembering the first time she had ridden the huge animal.

"Then off with yeh." He gave Buckbeak a sharp slap on the hindquarters and they took off.

"Yahoo!" Harry screamed into the wind as the giant half eagle half horse flew over the grounds in a large circle. Harry was exhilarated and noted that Professor McGonagall was watching from her classroom as they flew past the castle. A thin smile was playing about her lips. Harry took Buckbeak around a second time before landing him back in the paddock. The students were ecstatic and clapped with enthusiasm as she dismounted and gave Buckbeak a dead ferret to eat.

"Mr. Portsmouth, I believe you volunteered to be the first to try and approach Buckbeak," Remus remarked to the young man.

"Yes, Sir. Will I be able to ride him?"

"That is entirely up to Buckbeak."

The boy did as Harry had shown him. The hippogriff was unsure at first but then he bowed and it was clear that James was thrilled.

"Excuse me, Remus," Harry whispered, "but I have to get back."

"Did you have fun?"

"Yeah, but you owe me big time for this," she teased under her breath. "I'll see you at lunch in the staff room."

Remus nodded and went over to help Hagrid. He was showing James how to mount the hippogriff. Harry was almost to the castle when she heard the boy shout with glee as Buckbeak's shadow passed overhead. She smiled to herself. Obviously, she wasn't the only one who would have a story to tell later on. Reaching the transfiguration classroom, she could hear Minerva assigning the homework for the recess. There were still a few more minutes to the class and since she was in such a good mood Harry decided to give the students a little treat. Deftly pushing the door open a crack, she transformed into her snake form and slithered in hoping to make an impression on the Slytherin first years.

The class was startled at first and moved out of the way not sure what to do. Minerva simply told them to stay in their seats. She knew it was Harry and looked on amused. Harry glided up to the desk and slid up into the chair, which the older woman had vacated. Harry hissed at her. Minerva didn't understand Parseltongue but had a suspicion as to what Harry had said, so she replied briskly.

"You're welcome, Miss Potter. I thoroughly enjoyed covering your class today. They are an extremely bright group."

The students' expressions were priceless, as their jaws all dropped at once and Harry transformed back to herself. They all started clapping at once.

"That was brilliant!" Morgan Blackthorn exclaimed.

"But a serpent is the symbol of Slytherin house," Charles Ogden, a first year Gryffindor gasped.

"I am also a Phoenix, and who knows, maybe I will be able to do a Griffin one day too," Harry responded. "Snakes are not the enemy. You are reading too much into my form. This school is made up of all of its houses. If you have ever noticed the gargoyle outside of the Headmaster's office, you would have noted that it is a Phoenix. Slytherin House has suffered over the years but originally we were all one just as we are today. I don't ever want any of you to forget that. When the Dark Lord attacked the school, we all worked together and one day soon, we may just have to do so again. It's all about unity. Do you all understand that? You are separated into the houses since that is where your talents are. Gryffindor's are the bravest. Ravenclaw's the brightest, and Hufflepuffs are the most loyal. Slytherin house are the most ambitious. There is nothing wrong with cunning and ambition so long as it is put to the right uses. It should never be allowed to consume you with hatred or prejudice in order to obtain your goals."

"I'm sorry, Professor. You're right of course," Charles apologized.

"Now since it is time for lunch I hope you all enjoy the holiday parties and have a good Christmas. I will expect your assignments to be done when you return. Class dismissed."

The students filed out of the classroom wishing the two Professors 'Happy Christmas.'

"You couldn't have explained it any better, Harry," Minerva approved, "however I'm not certain how Albus will feel about your showing the students your other form."

"I know but it was necessary in light of today's events. It may also throw Voldemort for a loop. If you get my drift."

"Understood." Minerva McGonagall nodded thoughtfully. "Shall we adjourn to the staff room for lunch?"

"That is the best idea I have heard all day," Harry stated. "That wild flight on Buckbeak made me hungry."

Professor McGonagall had been right. Dumbledore reacted with mixed emotions to her transformation. It worried him that Voldemort would now learn about her second form. Nevertheless, Harry reiterated her feelings about house unity, especially in front of the younger students in view of the afternoon's incident during Potions. Dumbledore agreed that it would certainly help to promote cooperation amongst the younger students, the Slytherins in particular. He knew better than to press the issue. They were in the middle of this discussion when Hermione suddenly burst into the staff room, her face flushed with excitement.

"Harry, Professor Dumbledore, come quickly! We have cracked the final code on the translation of the spell. The key Arsinoe found worked. Professor Darkmoon is deciphering the rest of it now!"

"Well, that is good news," Dumbledore beamed, standing. "Tell Arsinoe that we are on our way."

"Yes, Sir," she replied running from the room.

"Are you all right Love?" Sirius had seen Harry's expression at this news. She had gone visibly pale, a deep frown etched into her forehead.

"Harry, you knew this day would come," Remus added softly. "It is better to be prepared for what you will have to do."

"There is no shame if what you are feeling, Harry. It will be awhile yet before you will have to face the Dark Lord and undo that which should not have happened in the first place," Snape told her soberly.

Harry merely nodded, grateful that her parents did not come down to the staff room that day. They had gone back to the Shrieking shack since they had no need to eat. James and Lily only joined the group occasionally in order to keep abreast of any developments but with the holiday fast approaching they wanted to decorate their temporary home.

Harry's parents had insisted that Harry, Sirius and Remus come and spend Christmas day with them. James had also asked Severus to attend along with the rest of the Snape family. Justinian had been confined to the castle since his return and was glad of the diversion. Harry had been reluctant to spend Christmas with her parents since she had been invited to the Burrow. It had also angered her that Lily and Molly had had a major row over this. Molly was the only mother Harry had ever known and she was looking forward to dinner in the Weasley home. However, Lily had won the argument by stating that Molly would have Harry for many years, and sobbing, she told the other woman that the only other time she had spent Christmas with her child was when Harry was an infant. She only wanted Harry to have some good memories of them before they had to be returned to the afterlife. It was the first time that any of them had ever known Molly to cave in.

Unfortunately, no one had asked Harry where she wanted to spend the holiday. If either woman had not been so emotional, they would have realized that either everyone could have gone to the Burrow or that Harry could have spent several hours in both places. As it was, Harry was considering staying at Hogwarts and having a quiet afternoon to herself. She had really wanted to spend time with Ron and Hermione one last time as a trio, before they married and became a permanent couple; leaving Harry on her own.

"Harry, are you coming?" Dumbledore interrupted her reverie.

"What? Oh sorry, I was just thinking," she said standing. "I'll see you all later." She fled the room, Dumbledore following in her wake, a look of consternation etched into his old features. He caught up with her in the hallway.

"You're troubled, Child." It was not a question. "Do you have something you wish to discuss?"

"Not really. It's something I will have to work out for myself."

"Very well, but if you should change your mind you know my door is always opened," he remarked dismissing the subject. He knew better than to press Harry. She would only close off further.

Neither spoke again until they reached Arsinoe's office. She and Hermione were pouring over an old stone tablet, Arsinoe writing swiftly on a long parchment. She looked up as they entered.

"Albus, this is fantastic. It is a set of detailed instructions on how to perform the reversal spell. I must tell you though, that it was Hermione who discovered the final key."

"It was just a fluke, Professor," Hermione blushed. "All I did was remark that the circles on the tablet reminded me of the full moon."

"Yes, but it made sense. It is from the Temple of the Moon. My people were not correct. The reversal can only be done when the moon is dark, in other words the new moon and not the full moon."

"That is interesting," Dumbledore mused. "The spell to raise the dead is done under the new moon also."

"Yes...that is why it must be performed under the same conditions. You need to speak to the serpents of the light as well as the serpents of the dark." Arsinoe's eyes glittered. "I am just confused as to why."

"Well that should be simple." Harry spoke for the first time. They all turned their eyes on her. "Serpents are active during periods of darkness. It is when they hunt just like real snakes and dragons but all are capable of moving about in the light. A true serpent is neither good nor bad, just like the ancient serpent gods. I will be tapping into both light and dark magic which has not been done for centuries."

"Harry, you're a genius. We never thought of that!" Hermione beamed.

"Yes, but there is another problem," Arsinoe frowned. "It only seems to be the instructions for doing the spell. This does not appear to be the spell itself."

"Are you certain?" Dumbledore queried dismayed.

"As far as I can tell the tablet merely ends in a series of designs and not in any form of language." Arsinoe turned the tablet around for them to look at.

"Perhaps there is another tablet that needs to be discovered," Dumbledore remarked thoughtfully. "I shall contact Bill and Charley Weasley and ask them to return to your people immediately to institute a search." The old man looked weary and defeated. Harry's heart went out to him as she glanced down at the tablet.

"Headmaster," she gasped taking a deep breath, "I don't think that will be necessary." She was staring at the tablet a look of shock on her face.

"What is it, Harry? You are looking at the tablet like it is going to leap up and bite you." Dumbledore was studying her over his half moon spectacles, blue eyes reflecting his concern.

"These designs...they aren't designs...not really," she stammered still studying the piece of stone.

"What do you mean?" Arsinoe questioned.

"I don't know how your ancient ancestors did it but this is a language that has never been seen in writing. The spell is right here. It has been cleverly written in Parsel tongue to hide it. They must have done it when the other spell to raise the dead was misused."

"Harry are you sure?" Hermione questioned doubtfully.

"Yes, I can read this."

"How is that possible?" Arsinoe demanded. "You do not speak Nahuatl."

"I told you it was somehow written in Parseltongue. These odd designs are a series of sounds. I can hear them in my head when I look at them and know what they mean. I don't know how they did it but it is all there as plain as day." Harry looked up at them green eyes wide with amazement. "If I had seen the tablet sooner I would have known this from the beginning."

"Harry, there was no reason for you to look at the tablet," Dumbledore remarked.

"We all assumed that it was written in Nahuatl or ancient Egyptian."

"In a sense it is. The serpents to be summoned are from both cultures."

"Hmm...That would reinforce the theory that the two cultures, although centuries apart, had some kind of connection," Arsinoe mused.

"Oh, this is just so exciting. What does it say, Harry?"

"I can't tell you."

"But you said you could read it," Hermione stated confused.

"I didn't say that I couldn't read it, I said I can't tell you what it says. It is meant for only the eyes of a Parseltongue and there is a curse on it should I divulge its contents to someone who is not."

"What kind of curse?" Dumbledore queried.

"My soul will be condemned to be taken by Am-Mut and forever denied its place in the afterlife."

"Ah, the Eater of Souls, I understand Harry. Perhaps this is why the Dementors have such a strong effect on you for that is what they do. You are wise not to mention what is written on this tablet. My ancient ancestors wanted to preserve the reversal spell from those who would continue to do harm by sending the good souls back thereby insuring the victory of all that is evil. Legend says that the two spells were originally used in times of war to raise an army to fight for the righteous. Somehow it was misused to try and stop the powers of the light."

"Can you imagine an army of Deatheaters scattering all across the world," Hermione shuddered.

"That is very probably what Voldemort had in mind. He would be unstoppable. Any of his followers who have died could be raised as his slaves and would therefore be immortal. He is just too consumed with stopping Harry right now. The Deatheaters who have been killed were all cremated except for the ones he deemed unfit to serve. Otherwise he might well have begun to put some such plan into action already," Dumbledore stated matter of factly. His blue eyes were the color of steel, a look of disgust and anger on his features.

"Yet he is still recruiting followers," Hermione whispered.

"But we now have the power to end this once and for all." Harry's green eyes flashed. "Arsinoe I need to memorize this spell."

"You make take the tablet to your room so long as you lock it up safely."

"I won't need to. I have a better idea." Harry drew her wand and pointed it in the direction where she thought her room would be. "Accio Pensieve." A few moments later Harry's Pensieve flew into the room and into her hands. Placing it carefully on the desk beside the tablet, she reread the spell several times before placing the wand to her head. She then extracted a long silver thread and placed it into the swirling mass reflected in the bowl. "That should do it. I will study it over the next few nights until it is committed to my memory."

"Arsinoe, if you and Miss Granger are finished with the tablet I will see that it is safely locked up in my office."

"Thank you, Albus. I shall leave it in your safekeeping over the holiday. I know my grandfather will approve."

"Are you going home for the holidays?" Harry asked.

"Yes, but I will be back for the ball. I will be leaving within the hour."

"Is it possible to apparate that great of a distance?" Hermione questioned with interest.

"No, I will apparate into London and then take a long distance Portkey to New York. Then I will take another to Southern California. From there I can apparate home."

"Will it take very long?" Harry questioned.

"It should be about two hours in all, depending on the Portkey transfer sites," Arsinoe explained. I will be back here the evening before the ball on the twenty-seventh.

"I know I need not remind you to be careful, Arsinoe," Dumbledore warned, "and do give your family my best regards."

"I will, Albus. Now if you will all excuse me I need to go and get ready for my trip. Have a good holiday, Harry, and try not to worry. I know this is difficult for you."

Harry nodded and flashed a wan smile before leaving the room with the Headmaster and Hermione. Dumbledore excused himself as he wanted to speak with Tiberius on Order business and Hermione went back to work in the library. Harry returned to her room with the Pensieve...

Harry was relaxing in the staff room following dinner. She had been taking a good deal of ribbing from her friends and colleagues about her wild ride on Buckbeak that afternoon.

"So, Harry, I heard about your bit of excitement on a certain hippogriff today," Sirius teased.

"I have no idea what you're talking about," she answered trying to keep a straight face and failing miserably.

"Aye, she sure knows 'ow ter get that big ol' critter ter take off," Hagrid laughed.

"Humph, more likely he shot up like that because you gave him a good whack on his flank. It's a damn good thing I knew what to expect having gone through it a few years back." Harry pretended to glare at the half giant.

"I don't know, Princess, it seemed to me that you were quite enjoying the ride."

"No thanks to you, Remus Lupin."

"I wish I had been there. I heard you weren't even holding on part of the time." James looked at his daughter with admiration. "Do you do as well on your broom?"

"Better than you ever did," she shot back playfully.

"Oh really, maybe we could do a little one on one over on the Quidditch pitch sometime."

"Just name the time and place. I guarantee to give you a run for your money."

"Oh, are we betting now?" Sirius eyes lit up at the prospect.

"Why not? Better yet maybe we could get enough people together to have a game of Quidditch," Harry challenged her father, green eyes dancing at the prospect.

"How about tomorrow?"

"Will we have enough people?" James asked.

"I think I can scrounge up a few on short notice. That is if the Headmaster will let one or two students play." Harry looked over at Dumbledore.

"So long as the students are not allowed to bet I don't see any problem."

"In that case, I will need to get some players together."

"I claim Sirius for my other chaser and Remus for my keeper," James laughed.

"So you want to play against me again?" She looked between the two Marauders.

"Still think we can't beat you, Love?" Sirius laughed.

"What about you, Remus? You generally don't like to play."

"You know that doesn't mean I don't know how. I am a fairly good Keeper."

"Humph, some Protectors you are," she teased. "In that case," she glanced down the table, "Severus would you like to play Beater for me? Ron of course will act as Keeper."

"You're on, Harry," Ron called up the table from where he was sitting with Hermione.

"Sorry Harry," Severus said giving the three Marauders a wicked sneer, "but James just recruited me for the other Chaser spot."

"Ron, would you go and ask Ginny to play in one my Chaser positions?"

"I'm on it, Harry. I'll try to get Bill, Charley and the twins to come too. Maybe we can make up two full teams!"

"Right, that will make it a great match," she called as Ron raced out the door. He was enthusiastic to play again.

In the end, they were able to find enough people to play. The only student turned out to be Ginny. The game was planned for ten the next morning. Harry's team consisted of Ron, and Harry in their old positions as Keeper and Seeker, along with Fred and George taking up their former spots as Beaters. The Chasers were Ginny, Draco, and Tonks. Harry hoped she wouldn't have too many accidents due to her clumsiness.

James Potter's team was made up of his two former Marauders and Severus along with Bill Weasley and Kingsley Shaklebolt acting as Beaters. Charlie Weasley had agreed to play in his old position as Seeker. Everyone agreed it was going to be a fun match. Rather than wear the school's Quidditch robes Harry's team decided to wear white and James' team would wear black. It would be a simple matter for everyone to charm his or her robes the appropriate colors. They would use the Quidditch balls and protective gear from the school's Quidditch supply shed. Madam Hooch would act as referee.

What Harry and the others didn't know was that Dumbledore had secretly asked Hermione and Lily to hang up notices in all the common rooms about the match. They had billed it as A Hogwarts Christmas Quidditch Match and invited all the students to attend. They had also contacted Arthur and Molly Weasley who were delighted to come. They would return to the Burrow with their children and Hermione following the match. Ginny, being the only student involved had been sworn to secrecy when she discovered the notice on the Gryffindor notice board.

Christmas Eve dawned crisp and cloudy with the hint of snow in the air. Harry was excited. She hadn't been in a real Quidditch game since last year. Today promised to be great fun and she liked the idea of being opposing seeker to Charlie. Like her, he had turned down a position as a professional player and had been one of Hogwarts best players. He played to win but so did Harry. When she went down to the staff room for breakfast, she was surprised to see a group of students standing in the hallway chattering about the upcoming match, Colin Creevy among them.

"Good luck today, Harry. The whole school will be at the game, just like old times, huh?'

"What, how did you know I was playing Quidditch today?"

"It was posted in all the common rooms last night, Professor." A fifth year Hufflepuff told her animatedly. "I can't wait to see you play again and against the legendary Charlie Weasley! My older brother graduated Hogwarts with him and told me all about how good he was."

"I see...uh...well thanks. I hope you all enjoy the match." Harry practically dove through the door to the teachers lounge.

"Ah...I see you've heard about the match," James laughed. "A bit nervous now are we?" He was deliberately teasing her.

"No more so than usual," she countered.

"Don't let him fool you, Harry, your father was always too nervous to eat before a game too," Lily admonished.

"Must run in the family," Ron grunted, unable to eat himself. "Did you know the Slytherins are running bets against us?"

"What are the odds?" Harry demanded.

"Eight to one in favor of the older team," Ron pouted.

"Then we'll just have to show them that we're better."

"Right on, Potter," Draco remarked. "It seems to me they're all out of shape. Getting too old for the fast pace of Quidditch," he sneered at his godfather.

"You will be quite surprised then, Draco," Snape sneered. "I never taught the house team all my nasty little tricks."

"Oh no, here we go with all the baiting from the opposing teams," Lily sighed. "Some things never change."

"Well Harry is a cinch to catch the snitch," Ron grinned, his faith in his friend evident in his face.

"Don't count on it little brother." Charley Weasley's cocky voice came from the door. He had just entered with the twins and Bill.

"I wouldn't be so sure of myself if I were you, Charlie," Harry baited him.

"You forget I've seen you play, Harry."

"And you forget that we have played many a time in your parent's field."

"How about a little side wager then?"

"Like what?" Harry asked suspiciously.

"Oh...I dunno, how about the one loses the snitch buys the first round after the game at the Three Broomsticks?"

"You're on and the losing team should it happen that way buys the next two rounds," Harry countered.

"That's my girl! Generous to a fault," James laughed as Lily slapped his arm playfully.

"Ah...a fool and his money are quickly parted." Harry patted her father's hand playfully. "Now if you will all excuse me I wish to go and confer with my team mates. I need to review our strategy." Harry rose and motioned for Ron, Draco and the twins to follow; turning to them once they were out in the hallway. "Come on we have to find Ginny and Tonks. I'll be damned if we are going to let them beat us too easily."

"What? You think we're going to lose, Potter?" Draco sneered.

"Not if I can help it, and we all know how most of them play. The ones we will have to watch out for are my dad and Kingsley Shaklebolt. They're the unknown factors. We also have to remember to call my parents by their assumed names."

"Not a problem," Ron agreed. "After all, it is Weasley."

"We'll keep them busy, don't worry, Harry." She didn't like the way the twins were grinning.

"Just don't cost us any penalties and do your best to keep Tonks out of trouble. She's our weakest link," Harry said as they made their way through the castle.

Tonks and Ginny had already eaten and the group met them in the main hall. They all agreed to go to the changing area beneath the stands and plan their game. Meanwhile the other team was doing the same thing in the staff room...

Harry could hear the crowds in the stand as they waited for the doors to open onto the pitch. She and Ron had formed a quick plan. Remus was a weak Keeper so they needed the Chasers to try to score fast and frequently. Harry also warned the twins to do their best to keep the quaffle away from her father. They had all seen his trophies and knew he had been one of the best Chasers in Hogwarts history. Finally, the doors swung open and the two teams took to the field.

"I want a nice clean game," Madam Hootch announced smirking as the captains shook hands. "Mount your brooms!"

They all rose into the air, Harry and Charlie both moving into position halfway up the stands. Harry barely heard Dennis Creevy, who was doing the commentary. She had her eyes scanning the area intent of getting to the snitch before Charlie. As she scanned the sky, she noted that Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were sitting with Dumbledore when she was suddenly distracted by Dennis.

"Julian Weasley is in control of the quaffle...and Ron is moving in for the block...Ron Weasley missed...ten points for the black team!"

"Damn! Come on Ron, don't let them throw you," she muttered.

"Nice block by the twins," the crowd was on its feet. Fred had hit the bludger towards Kingsley, who had nearly been knocked off his broom. "This game is going to get rough folks!" Dennis announced with glee. "Let's see how long the old timers will last!"

Harry was trying to follow the game while scanning for the snitch but suddenly she saw Charlie take off up the field. She had an idea that he was merely trying to draw her out, and was right. He stopped when she did not follow grinning at her over his shoulder. It got colder as the game wore on, and Harry could see Severus and Draco racing up the field both trying to get control of the quaffle when Tonks flew up on the other side. She never saw the bludger Bill fired off at her and took a direct hit to the shoulder, spinning wildly on her broom. Harry almost went to her rescue when she saw Sirius speeding up the pitch with her father, the twins in pursuit. That's when everything seemed to happen at once. Sirius was able to get hold of the quaffle and pass it to James before the twins fired off another bludger. The black team scored off Ron again. The score now stood at seventy to twenty in favor of the black team. At the same time, Bill knocked a bludger towards Ginny but she dodged and it crashed into Ron. He was knocked to the ground leaving their goals unattended. He was unhurt but his broom was broken. Harry had to find the snitch! Scanning the pitch again, she let herself drift. That's when she spotted it. The snitch was behind Charley over near the Headmaster's box. She had to keep him away from it. Taking a deep breath, she took off in the opposite direction.

"Harry Potter has spotted the snitch," Dennis yelled in excitement as Harry pretended to reach out in front of her. "Charlie Weasley is trying to catch up and is in hot pursuit.

Harry could sense the excitement and suddenly dove towards the ground coming up behind Charley. He realized she had duped him. The snitch was now on the move and Harry could see it buzzing high above the Slytherin box. The crowd was roaring as she pointed her broom up but Charley was catching up fast when the snitch took off again towards the opposite side of the field. Charley was directly on her tail.

"Give it up, Harry," he yelled.

"No way!" she screamed back. "The snitch is mine!"

They were neck and neck now and the snitch was directly in front of them. Both were reaching out for it and Harry knew Charley had a longer reach. Hunching her body forward to gain momentum the snitch flew directly between them both. They collided and began tumbling to the ground, barely getting control of their brooms as they fell. The crowd was roaring in her ears and Harry was aware that Charlie had his hand over hers as they landed in a heap.

"You okay, Harry?" he asked with a grin.

"Yeah, never better." She was grinning like a Cheshire cat.

"Nice game," he said removing his hand.

"Thanks," she laughed back and held up her hand for them all to see. The little glittering ball was tight in her grip

"Harry Potter has caught the snitch!" Dennis exclaimed. "The white team wins one hundred and seventy to seventy!"

"Guess we're buying all the drinks, Huh?" Charlie teased.

"It sure looks that way," she said as he hugged her in congratulations after helping her up. Both teams gathered around. "Too bad I lost five galleons though."

"What?! You mean you bet against us?" Ron gasped in dismay. "Why did you do that?"

"Ron when have I ever won in any of the betting pools?"

"Never, now that you mention it," he laughed.

"Exactly," she laughed as everyone joined in, "and truth be told if we hadn't collided Charlie would have caught the snitch," Harry admitted sheepishly. "So I will still buy the first round."

"Here, here!" The black team cheered as they hoisted Harry onto Sirius shoulders with Remus, and Severus beside him. Her father leading all the players from the field.

After they had cleaned up the two teams went over to the village accompanied by Molly, Arthur, and Dumbledore. After toasting each other and having several drinks to celebrate the holidays the Weasley clan departed with Hermione for the Burrow. The others went back up to the castle.

Harry was tired and still had some wrapping to do so she excused herself early and went back to her quarters. It had been a good day and her parents had beamed at her with such a look of pride that she felt ashamed for not wanting to spend Christmas with them.

Settling down on her bed, she surveyed the gifts she had bought. Dumbledore would love the fifty pairs of warm socks she had gotten him. He still insisted that was what he always saw when he looked into the Mirror of Erised yet no one ever gave them to him. There was also a big box of Muggle M&M's with a big Yellow M dispenser. It had arms and legs with a smiling face. Dobby was to receive a white shirt, knickers, and a pair of socks along with some shoes. She had bought Severus a small Pensieve of his own to store any memories he wished to keep. Remus was to receive a Wizard's trunk. It was fully furnished with three rooms. There was also an empty room with a heavy wooden door and stone floors, should he ever need a safe place to transform. Sirius loved the winter snow so she had gotten him a Muggle snowmobile, which he could charm later on to his likes. She had shrunk it down so he could open it just as Dumbledore had done with his motorcycle.

Harry had gotten Phaedra a set of children's dress robes after begging Dumbledore to allow her to come to the ball for the first two hours. He had been reluctant but had finally given in when he had seen how much it would mean to Harry. She had sent Circe a home made gift certificate entitling her and Justinian to one weekend of baby-sitting on the weekend of their choice. This way they could have some time alone together. It had been Harry's way of apologizing for being such a prat and having caused so much trouble. She had given Arsinoe and the other teachers gift certificates for their favorite shops in Hogsmeade. Hagrid had been a bit of a problem but she had finally found something she knew he would like. Dumbledore had helped her to secure an Abraxan; one of the giant winged palominos, which was large enough for him to ride. It had been expensive but Hagrid had been her first friend in the Wizarding world and she wanted him to know how much she had always appreciated him being there for her.

Harry wasn't sure what Hermione would do with her present and hoped she would not hex her. With her nuptials coming, she wanted to give her something funny and useful at the same time so she had gotten her a copy of the Witches Kama Sutra. It was charmed to be disguised as a cook book should anyone ask to see it other than its owner. She had bought Ron a pair of tickets for the Quidditch World Cup scheduled for the following summer. It was to be held in France and she had arranged with Moody and Kingsley to make certain that he was given the time off. The other Weasley brothers were sent various articles of clothing. She had gotten Ginny new dress robes for the ball. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were to receive a new owl, since their old owl, Errol, had recently died. She had also sent them a new hand for their clock with Hermione's name on it.

Finally, she had been forced to find something for her parents. Harry had known there was nothing she could buy for them. Her solution had been to write down her feelings in a letter. The letter expressed her feelings about them. Slowly placing it on the bed, she read it final time.

Dear Mum and Dad,

I am writing this to you since I know there is no gift I can buy that you can take with you. I wanted you to know how I really feel about the both of you. I know that most of the time I have been acting like a real prat but that is because of the enormous task, which we all know I must undertake. You did not ask for the dark magic that brought you back to me after all these years. Yet you have never complained about my behavior. You accepted me and accepted what I would be forced to do. You have tried to comfort me in my pain and I turned away. Please understand that I must continue to do so even though I don't want to. If I let myself get too close, Voldemort will win. Every day that I see you my heart aches with the knowledge that what is right is not always what is easy or what we may want. Fate has dealt us all a dirty hand and likes to play cruel games. You were torn from me as a baby and again when I was sent back in time to that fateful night at sixteen. Now it seems we must face that awful blow for a third time. I keep trying to hold my head up high and pretend that I don't want to curse up at the four winds and whatever gods that could be so cruel to do this to us. I cry myself to sleep at night when I think about what my final act will do to Padfoot and Moony. It is killing me with worry about how they will react to your loss for a second time or how they will look at me. Molly Weasley told me that your being here, for whatever time we are allotted, will give us the closure we have sought for so long and allow us to go on. I can only pray that she is right because if she is not I think I will go crazy. I don't think I could bear to be left all alone again or to see the hollow look in Sirius' eyes and hear the hidden pain in Remus' voice. Did you know that I'm an Empath? Yes, of course you must; but did you know that I can feel the ache in your hearts too? I know when Mum wants to hug me and how much she hurts when I shun her. I can feel your desire to tell me how proud you are of me but I just hurt you by shrugging it off instead of hugging you too. I know how you both want to tell me you love me but I won't let you. You see, I know it's there but what you may not realize is that I too want these things. That is why I let you stay for my transformation lesson and took such delight in seeing Prongs. He's my Patronus and always will be. It's why I let Mum softly stoke my feathers and take pleasure in the comfort of my song when I became my Phoenix. It is why I finally allowed Sirius to tell you I had been seriously injured. The little girl inside of me wanted the comfort that only her parents could give but I still had to push her aside. It is why I played that Quidditch match so that you could have something personal to take back with you. Something you were truly a part of. It is why I will wear a rose colored robe for Mum the night of the ball and why I shall give Dad the first dance. These will be my memories as well. I will carefully preserve them in my Pensieve and within my heart. It is why I can only say I love you in a letter and why I have to say thank you. Thank you for having me, thank you for finding a way to hide me and thank you for loving me enough to give your lives for me. You died so that I could live. I promise that your deaths will not have been in vain and that I will always do what is right even if it isn't easy. I love you.

Your Daughter,

Harry James Potter

Harry finished reading the letter. Silently folding it she placed it into an envelope, the tears running down her cheeks. She then put it with the other gifts to be delivered by the house elves. Turning off her light, she curled up in a fetal position and cried herself to sleep. The one thing she really wanted for Christmas was the one thing she had to deny herself. The comfort and love of her parents.

18