The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Chapter 25

The Yule Ball

Looking back on it Harry had been glad that she had spent Christmas at the Shrieking Shack with her family. They had gone out of their way to make her feel comfortable and loved without being pushy. Her mum had made everyone's favorite foods, making sure to include Severus and Phaedra's favorite desserts along with something chocolate for Remus.

James had acted the charming host. He did his best to make the Snape's feel comfortable, spending a good part of the afternoon discussing the latest advancements in potion making. He had also delighted Phaedra by transforming in the magically enlarged living room pretending to be one of Father Christmas' reindeer. Lily had put a collar of bells around his neck while Phaedra rode on his back, handing out the presents. Of course, they had almost toppled over the tree but thanks to Remus quick wand action, that disaster was averted. Harry wondered idly if her dad would have done the same with her had he lived.

Lily and James had opened Harry's gift privately earlier in the morning. They realized it was something personal and understood that whatever was in the envelope Harry had intended for their eyes only. By the time Harry had arrived at the appointed hour through the secret tunnel her father had greeted her glowing with pride. She could tell her mother had been crying. Harry had been concerned that she had somehow hurt her mother's feelings. However, James, seeing the look on Harry's face quickly dispelled that notion. He explained that it had been the best gift they could ever have received. Her mother had been crying from happiness. Apparently, Lily had been worried that Harry had resented their having died, blaming them for the hard life she had suffered with the Dursleys.

Sirius, Remus, and the Snapes, who were seated in the living room, had also liked their gifts. Sirius had lost no time in charming his new snowmobile. Severus was pleased with the new Pensieve, actually going as far as teasing her about sneaking a peek to satisfy her insatiable curiosity. Remus had been humbled by Harry's generosity and concern for his welfare. It was obvious how much he appreciated her understanding about his condition.

Everyone had been startled when Fawkes had suddenly appeared in a burst of blue flames carrying a note from Dumbledore. At first, they had been concerned that something had happened. However, they all laughed when Harry had read the short missive. Dumbledore had been delighted with his fifty pairs of warm socks and the candy. He wanted them all to know that for the first time in his long life someone had finally gotten the hint and given him what he had really wanted. He also let Harry know that Hagrid had cried like a baby when he received the large winged Palomino, naming him Goldie. Dumbledore didn't have the heart to tell him Goldie was a girl's name.

Phaedra had been chagrined at first that Harry had not given her a toy until Harry explained that the dress robes were for the Yule Ball. She had leaped into Harry's lap beaming with delight that she was going to be allowed to attend the ball even though it was only for two hours. She had promised to be very very good and immediately asked all the men to dance with her. Circe just rolled her eyes and Justinian laughed. Phaedra was going to be quite a little flirt when she got older.

Harry had also been pleased with her gifts. Her parent's had given her a gold signet ring depicting a griffin standing on its hind legs brandishing a ruby encrusted sword. Her father explained that it was the Potter family crest and that the ring had been his. He had charmed it to fit on Harry's finger. Sirius and Remus had put their heads together gave Harry a tapestry similar to the one which used to be in Grimmauld Place. Only this one showed the Potter family tree. Remus had traced it back with a little help from James. Sirius had gotten it custom made. Tiberius, Circe, and Justinian had bought Harry a new gold cauldron to use for her Potion Masters exam in the spring. Phaedra had insisted that they fill it with Honeydukes best chocolates.

Nevertheless, it was Severus' gift which everyone caught everyone's attention. Harry was actually speechless when she opened it. He had painted a portrait of Harry without her glasses. Her face was set in a look of triumph as she brandished her wand, hair blowing in the wind, emerald eyes flashing as storm clouds gathered around. A small break in the clouds showed a bright beam of sunlight cascading down upon her. Her three protectors were standing behind her off in the distance with the castle as a backdrop. The painting had a small brass plaque on the bottom with the title of the portrait, The Ray of Hope. They had all known Severus liked to draw and would occasionally paint but the portrait was incredible. It was charmed to show the movement of her facial expressions and the wind rustling her hair and robes. The light also glistened with the subtle nuances one would expect with a break in the clouds. Ironically, Sirius was the first to speak, breaking the spell.

"Severus, you missed your calling. This portrait is incredible."

"I merely wanted to give something to Harry so that she could see how we all felt about her," he replied turning to Harry. "Do you like it?"

"No glasses?" she questioned trying to keep her voice light. However, she could feel her cheeks burning and would not look him in the eye.

"You hide behind them too much. I wanted to show how remarkable you look when you are faced with what for most would be insurmountable odds. Your eyes are the mirror to your soul. They reflect the power and grace inside just as the Headmaster's do."

"I agree, Severus," Remus said as he studied the painting. "I think you have captured her perfectly."

"I'll say." James eyed the other man shrewdly. 'He's in love with her. I wonder if Harry feels the same way. I know they're Soulmates but that doesn't always mean love. She's bound to him by blood through the Protectorship but does she truly understand what that means,' her father mused considering the possibilities. 'I will have to watch this situation closely and have a little talk with Dumbledore.'

"James, it's time to eat. The turkey will get cold," Lily interrupted his thoughts, "and I know Phaedra and Moony are looking forward to dessert along with Severus. It's chocolate mousse, strawberry shortcake, and peach cobbler."

"Can I have dessert first?" Phaedra begged helping to break the spell.

"No you may not," both her parents stated emphatically.

Everyone had laughed and they all moved in to the elegant table Lily had set. Even though she and James had no need to eat they sat down with their guests enjoying the dinner conversation. Since Phaedra was present, they didn't mention the war, talking about old friends and life at Hogwarts instead.

The only problem came at the end of the evening. Tiberius suddenly announced that he needed to leave. The adults were aware that the Dark Lord was summoning him. Each of them hoped that Voldemort was not going to cause any mayhem. Harry especially worried that Voldemort would murder someone on the holiday. She took Tiberius aside before he disappeared into the hidden passage.

"Tiberius, be careful. My scar isn't burning but that may not mean anything."

"I will be my usual self in the Dark Lord's presence, Harry. As you know I am in his good graces right now since he believed our little ruse about Justinian."

"I know, but you know how quickly his moods can change. I do hope he isn't planning on killing anyone tonight."

"It is always possible but I think he is merely going over some kind of plan. Now I had best be going. You know what he will do if I am late."

Harry merely nodded, allowing him to disappear down the tunnel. The Dark Lord punished lateness with the Cruciatus. At least he had been pleased when Tiberius had presented him with the body of the poor man they had transformed to look like Justinian.

Tiberius had told the Dark Lord that he had surprised Justinian and used Avadra Kedavra, telling Dumbledore that they had both been attacked by Deatheaters in Hogsmeade. Voldemort had believed the story after he had probed his mind and saw him perform the curse. What he didn't know was that they had stood up the man and Tiberius had directed the curse at a corpse. Voldemort had also gone as far as to check his wand. Seeing that he did indeed fire the killing curse at the man he believed to be Circe's half-blood lover the Dark Lord had laughed with delight. Harry knew the ruse had worked when her scar burned and she could feel Voldemort's happiness. She silently said a thank you to the deceased Auror. He had died in battle and had no family. Moody thought that the man would be proud to have helped.

After Tiberius had left, the group had become more subdued until Sirius started to sing. Everyone joined in as he murdered a number of Christmas Carols, the funniest being a game with the Twelve Days of Christmas. He directed them all to add a silly verse as they went around the room. The song included a Werewolf in a Whomping Willow tree, two animagi, five magic wands, seven cauldrons boiling, nine Moon Calves dancing, and twelve Doxy's drumming. Harry had laughed so hard that tears were running down her face.

The party had finally broken up at about nine o'clock. When Harry had emerged from the tunnel, she discovered it was snowing. Sirius was ecstatic and she knew he would be riding on his new snowmobile in the morning...

The Christmas night snowfall had turned into a full-blown blizzard. It had been snowing for almost two days. Harry was frantic that the musicians would not be able to make if for the ball. Dumbledore however, reassured her that they would be there as he had arranged for them to floo to the Three Broomsticks. Hagrid would pick them up by a thestral drawn sleigh to bring them back to Hogwarts.

She was in the Great Hall inspecting the decorations that the staff had worked so hard on when Sirius came in from the rose garden. "Harry, come and see the garden. It's fantastic!" he called.

"You just want to get me into the garden for a quick snog," Harry teased.

"No, really," he laughed, "come and look! Dumbledore decided to add a few touches of his own."

"Really, what did he do?"

"He's created a winter wonderland," Sirius crowed pulling her out of the large glass doors. Isn't it beautiful?" His eyes were shining with delight as he grinned from ear to ear.

"I think the Headmaster has outdone himself," Harry gasped looking around.

The garden had been transfigured so that there were miniature Christmas trees, complete with fairy lights, holly bushes, and poinsettia plants instead of the usual roses. Ice sculptures of reindeer, snowmen, and gingerbread houses adorned the scenery. The reindeer had been magically charmed to shake their heads blinking their eyes when a person passed. The snowmen were waving and smiling as they tipped their top hats.

"Thank you, Harry." Dumbledore's voice came from behind her.

"I guess the roses weren't up to your liking this year?" she asked turning to face him. The twinkle in his blue eyes was unmistakable and he was smiling warmly.

"I thought that since you all did such a wonderful job with the hall that something more interesting was warranted. We will go back to the roses for Valentines Day. I am sure Miss Granger and Mr. Weasley will be happy with them for their wedding."

"I know Hermione is looking forward to having the doors open during the reception. How are the plans coming for the Valentine's dance?"

"We are having it the day before the wedding so that we can maintain security for the wedding reception. Miss Granger does not have a big family and those who were invited are aware that she is a witch. However, Arthur is the Minister of Magic so there will be a good number of people present who work at the Ministry along with all the Weasley family members and friends."

"That will take some very heavy duty magic to do the decorating for both affairs."

"Well, Harry, as you know Severus and I will be doing the dance decorations," Sirius reminded her, "but the wedding is being done by the house elves on a plan devised by Hermione and Professor McGonagall."

"Hermione is using house elves?" Harry chuckled.

"She insisted on paying them," Dumbledore replied with amusement.

"Did they agree?"

"No, they told her it would be their honor to do it for free. Winky reasoned with her saying it would be a wedding present from all of them."

"I still can't believe she agreed." Harry shook her head in amazement.

"I just hope she doesn't try and send them some clothes," Sirius remarked. "They will become basket cases."

"I'll talk to Dobby. If she does we can donate them to an orphanage or some other group for the needy," Harry told them thoughtfully. "Hermione will not need to know."

"That is an excellent idea," Dumbledore agreed. "Now if you will both excuse me I do have some duties to attend to. I am meeting with Alastor regarding the increased security measures he wishes to institute for the wedding." Dumbledore then strode off leaving Harry alone with Sirius.

"Now what were you saying about a bit of a snog?" Sirius asked taking her into his arms.

"Why Sirius Black, I do believe you lured me out here expressly for that purpose."

"And why would I do something like that?" he questioned pretending to frown.

"Why don't you tell me," Harry countered, cheeks flushed, green eyes sparkling.

"Hmm...Now let me think," he began playfully, "could it be because you are such a talented young witch? No, maybe it's because you're so pretty. Or maybe it's because you seem to have been avoiding me lately?"

"I have not! I have been busy with the ball and you know it."

"Ah...but now you have finished with the decorating so maybe you could spare me a few minutes of your time?"

"Perhaps," she answered coyly as he steered her over to one of the benches and sat down beside her. She looked up into his eyes with a grin. "Why do I think you're the devil in disguise?"

"Because I'm Sirius Black the Casanova of Hogwarts and animagus extraordinaire," he countered with a smirk, "and everything I said before is true."

They stared at each other for what felt like an eternity before he gently lowered his head, pressing his lips to hers. She felt his tongue press against her teeth. Her lips parted with his as they locked into a heated embrace. They separated slowly some time later, arms still wrapped around one another. Neither spoke right away, each content to sit and cuddle. Harry finally broke the silence.

"Sirius, I have to go and get ready for the ball."

"I know," he replied gently kissing his way down the side of her cheek to give her one last kiss on the lips. "Dumbledore told me he asked you to open the ball. May I have the pleasure of the first dance with you?"

"I'm sorry but I've already promised it to someone else."

"Oh?" he questioned taken aback.

"Are you jealous?" She smiled up at him flirtatiously.

"That would depend on who it is."

"I think I will just let you think about that for awhile. It will be interesting to see how you react. If you aren't too upset I promise to give you the next dance though," she smirked rising.

"And if I am upset? What then?"

"Maybe you could have a duel for my honor," Harry laughed slipping away from him. "If I were you I would come prepared." She then darted back into the Great Hall, leaving him alone in the garden.

'Damn, is there someone she fancies that I don't know about? Maybe she's seeing George again...or maybe Charley Weasley. They had a great time on the Quidditch Pitch and at the Three Broomsticks after the match," he fretted to himself. "I will just have to wait and see but I'll be damned if anybody hurts her..." Sirius continued to worry as he made his way through the castle to find Remus. He wanted to ask him if he had seen Harry with anyone other than her three protectors lately...

Harry was in a good mood as she prepared for the evening's events. She had indeed purchased a gown in a deep rose color. The material was iridescent and reflected the light as she moved. She had also bought coordinating dress robes in pale ivory trimmed in the same material as the gown. Her shoes were simple pumps in the same shade of ivory with a matching handbag. She put the pearls Sirius had given her two years ago around her neck and on her left hand chose to wear the gold signet ring from her parents since the serpent ring was on her right. Harry decided not to carry her usual wand. Instead, she chose the wand she had received at her graduation made from the antlers of a stag. The inner core was another one of Fawkes feathers, which he had given up expressly for this wand. She placed it carefully inside of her robe pocket.

Next, she tackled her hair. Even though it had grown out it still had a mind of its own. She finally decided to put it up in a simple French twist but left a few tendrils loose around her face in wispy curls. Harry then coordinated her make up to match surveying her appearance in the large floor mirror.

"My dear, you will be the belle of the ball!" The mirror exclaimed in satisfaction. "All the men will be asking for you to dance."

"Then maybe I should put on some different shoes," Harry replied thinking that her feet would be hurting tomorrow from the heels.

"Nonsense, you will be dancing on air if I know this school."

"Anything's possible," she laughed turning away from the mirror. Taking out her new wand, she gave it a wave to extinguish the lights. It felt different from her holly wand and she could feel its power. "Whoa, this will take some getting used to. I will have to do some practicing with it," she muttered leaving the room. Harry made her way down to the Great Hall and entered through the back by the dais rather than the main doors. As one of the staff, she was to be there before the students were allowed entry. She looked around as she entered the room.

Ron was already there with Hermione. They had arrived back the night before via

portkey due to the inclement weather. They were wearing coordinating robes in deep burgundy, Hermione's trimmed with soft velvet. Draco and Neville would be meeting with Ginny and Luna once the students were allowed in. Draco looked resplendent in dark grey trimmed with silver. Neville wore robes in deep brown trimmed with tan. All the Aurors were on duty tonight and would be intermingling with the students and staff through out the night. Some of the Order members were also there including Bill and Charlie along with Mad Eye Moody for additional security. Harry noted that Tonks looked quite pretty in a royal blue gown with matching robes and she was using her real appearance and hair color. McGonagall was in her usual tartan and Professor Sprout had on pale green with a dark green trim.

Her protectors had not yet arrived when she entered. Dumbledore came over to greet her. He looked resplendent in gold robes trimmed with white satin. Little stars twinkling on the material. He wore a hat to match.

"You look beautiful, my dear," he beamed. "May I have the pleasure of the first dance to open the ball with you or has some younger man captured your fancy?"

"I'm sorry, Headmaster. I have already promised the opening dance to someone as well as the second dance. Would you like to take the third?"

"It would be my pleasure. Which of your Protectors has been the lucky choice to open the ball with you?"

"None of them," she pursed her lips slyly.

"Indeed?" Dumbledore was clearly taken by surprise. "Is there someone new in your life?" he asked pleasantly but Harry sensed an underlying concern.

"You might say that," she smiled coyly. "However, I'm sure you will approve."

"If you have chosen him them I am sure I shall." Dumbledore smiled. Harry could sense him trying to probe her mind but her Occlumency skills were in place and he withdrew.

"Harry, we missed you at Christmas but Mum was glad when you called that night to say you had a good time with..."

Hermione interrupted him with a sharp poke in the ribs before he could mention her parents. "What Ron was starting to say was that Molly was glad you spent the day with their cousins from Australia."

"It turned out to be a wonderful afternoon but I still missed you guys." Harry hugged her friends affectionately. "Did you both like your presents? I didn't get to talk to you on the floo since my time was limited."

"Liked is not the word!" Ron was clearly elated. "How did you ever get tickets to the next Quidditch World Cup?"

"That was easy. It was one of the few times being Harry Potter actually paid off," Harry giggled. "What about you, Hermione. Did you like the cookbook?" Harry's cheeks flushed scarlet.

"I...er...found it very interesting. Molly liked the recipes too." Hermione's blush crept all the way down her neck as she referred to the charmed sex manual.

"I purposely made sure no one but you could read the important parts," Harry whispered to her friend. "I knew Molly would ask what I gave you so I made sure you could have it open and not be embarrassed." Both girls began to giggle conspiratorially and Harry was relieved that Hermione wasn't upset with her. "Actually, Harry, I had wanted to buy it for myself but was too embarrassed to do it."

"Well if it makes you feel any better I went and bought it using a concealment charm. I didn't want to be seen buying it myself. I get enough strange looks as it is."

"Now what are you two going off about?" Draco sneered, coming over to them.

"Oh, just girl talk." Harry rolled her eyes innocently.

"More like plotting some kind of scheme," the blond Slytherin grunted.

"I would think that would be more in your line of work, Draco," Hermione retorted.

"That's what we Slytherins are noted for, Granger. While you Gryffindors are out risking your necks we in Slytherin are making the plans on how you should do it."

"Yeah, more like bloody bad ones from the look of it," Ron chimed in. He still was not altogether friendly towards his partner but things were improving with Ginny and Molly's help.

"Wotcher, Harry, you look gorgeous. You too, Hermione," Tonks interrupted diffusing the situation before anything started.

"Thanks, Tonks," Harry replied. "You look pretty good yourself. It's nice to see the real you for a change."

"Ah...but is this the real me?" She wiggled her eyebrows mischievously.

"Do you even know what you really look like anymore cousin?" Draco sneered.

"Naturally, I look like the good looking side of the family. The Tonks side that is," she answered enjoying giving him a little dig about her Muggle relations.

The door opened again before Draco could reply and Arsinoe entered. She looked stunning in her native dress robes. Her dark eyes were sparkling and she had left her black hair loose around her shoulders. She moved with an easy grace and Harry was reminded that one of her animagus forms was a jaguar. She immediately came over to greet them.

"Good evening. You all look wonderful. I have never been to one of Hogwarts Balls. Are they as fun as the Headmaster has told me?"

"Depends on what you think of as fun," Draco answered looking her up and down in blatant admiration.

"I wouldn't let Ginny see you looking at Miss Darkmoon like that," Hermione warned. "She just might lose her temper."

"What? Can't I admire a beautiful woman?"

"Thank you, Draco," Arsinoe laughed. "I am sure once Miss Weasley gets here she will be the only one you look at for the rest of the evening."

"Damn right." Draco shook his head in agreement. "You lot all look nice but in my book none of you can put a candle to Ginny." It was obvious by his dreamy expression that he was in love with the youngest Weasley. "She is the sweetest smartest most beautiful witch in the world even if her brother can be a git at times," he snickered, looking at Ron.

"Ah...young love...I remember it well." Dumbledore looked at them all over his half moon spectacles, blue eyes twinkling. "Mr. Weasley and Miss Granger if I may have a few minutes of your time? I have a few suggestions from Alastor about the security measures for you upcoming nuptials I would like to discuss." He winked at Harry who understood that he really wanted to prevent Ron and Draco from going at one another.

"Of course, Professor Dumbledore. I'm sure he will be taking the utmost of precautions with so many important people and my Muggle relatives attending," Hermione stated following the Headmaster. She tugged on Ron's sleeve to follow.

"Harry, did you see what the Headmaster did to the rose garden?" Neville called over from where he was chatting with Professors Sprout and McGonagall.

"Yeah, isn't it wonderful?" She nodding giving her friend a smile. "You and Professor Sprout did great arrangements too."

"Thanks." He looked genuinely pleased.

The stocky little woman beamed beside him as the door opened again. Harry's three protectors entered accompanied by her parents and the Snapes. Phaedra immediately flew over to Harry.

"Miss Harry, you look like a real Princess!"

"So do you." Harry hugged the little girl. She had on the forest green velvet dress robes Harry had purchased her for Christmas and her mother had pulled up her golden curls on a cascading ponytail secured with a red ribbon.

"Are you excited to be at your first ball, Little One?" Arsinoe inquired.

"Oh...yes!" Phaedra jumped up an down. "I am just going to dance the night away!"

"Well for two hours anyway," Justinian reminded her coming over with Circe. She was resplendent in black velvet trimmed with dark red.

"Good evening, Harry." Circe gave her a quick hug.

"You look beautiful, Circe, and I like the way you and Justinian coordinated your robes." He had chosen to wear robes in the opposite colors of his wife.

"Thank you, Harry," Justinian answered kindly.

"Now if you will all excuse me for a second I see three people who are just standing there looking a bit shell shocked," she said indicating Sirius, Severus, and Remus. "I think I had better go and shake them out of it."

The others nodded in assent as Harry moved over towards where the three men stood by the door. Tiberius had moved off to speak with Mad Eye and Dumbledore but not before giving her a rare smile in greeting.

"Harry, you just get prettier by the day." James beamed. "I see you don't have your glasses on."

"No, I have my contacts in for the night."

"I think you look absolutely beautiful tonight dear," Lily hugged her daughter quickly. "That color becomes you."

"Thank you, Augusta. I think your gown is stunning," Harry replied keeping to her parent's anonymous identities. Lily was wearing pale blue satin trimmed in royal blue adorned with small crescent moons. "Julian looks handsome as well." Harry winked at her father. He was wearing navy blue with matching silk trim around the neck and cuffs.

"We need to see Albus for a minute, Harry. I hope you don't mind?"

"Not at all, Julian, I understand perfectly." Her parents moved off so that she could have a private word with her three protectors.

"Even though I am sure you have heard this before you do look beautiful this evening, Harry," Severus complimented her with a thin smile.

"I think she looks better than beautiful," Sirius eyed her boldly. He didn't want to be outdone by Severus.

"Scrumptious is more like it," Remus laughed.

"Remus," Harry grinned, "I don't think that is such a good word coming from a werewolf." She hugged him affectionately as he gave her a lopsided smile.

"I like your robes. You have all outdone yourselves," Harry said with admiration. Remus had chosen to wear deep chocolate brown trimmed with gold, which complimented his eyes. Sirius was wearing a deep charcoal gray similar to Malfoy's but trimmed in light grey silk. Severus, as always, was in black with black satin trim.

"That's because we are here with the belle of the ball," Sirius quipped. "We wanted to make sure you had eyes only for us."

"Do I detect a note of jealousy?"

"We are merely looking out for you, Harry," Severus remarked stoically but his dark eyes were glittered passionately. "I understand you have chosen your partner to open the ball."

"Ah...so you are all wondering who it will be?"

"Well, Princess since it isn't one of us we were curious."

"And who do you think I have chosen?"

"You seem to be on good terms with Charlie Weasley," Sirius scowled.

"I believe you have asked the Headmaster." Severus nodded in his direction.

"What about you, Remus? Who do you think I am going to dance with?"

"My guess is Ron. He is your best friend after all. We all know he doesn't like to dance so it would be a good prank on your part."

"Well you will all just have to wait to meet my first love," Harry chuckled wickedly. "I do hop you all approve of him. It would break my heart if you didn't." She let her eyes slide over the expressions on the three men. Remus looked worried, Sirius was openly scowling and Severus features looked as if they were set in stone. Harry was secretly delighted at their discomfiture. She felt is was only fitting for them to feel a bit jealous for a change in view of some of the things they had kept from her.

"Attention, everyone," Dumbledore clapped his hands for attention. "I wish to welcome all of you tonight and thank you all for your help to make this event possible. I do hope you enjoy yourselves as much as I will. Now if you will all take your places it is time we opened the doors to allow the students in."

The staff all took places at one of the round tables in the front of the room. The band and string quartet came forward from where they had been waiting and took seats at the table designated for their use to have access to the dais where they had set up. The security staff took places at various points of the room. Dumbledore nodded to Mr. Filch who then swung open the double doors and the students flooded in. They all had various expressions on their faces from anticipation to anxiety. This was especially true for the fourth year boys and Harry knew they were dreading having to dance. She noticed Draco and Neville taking a seat over at a table with Ginny and Luna who had come in together. Bill was in the back of the room and she realized that fleur was there with her too. Tonks was sitting near the front with Charlie Weasley. The other Aurors had dispersed through out the room. Once everyone was seated around the dance floor, Professor McGonagall stood.

"Welcome to all of you and I hope you enjoy the evening. Various entertainments have been arranged but we shall have dinner before the dancing starts. Now, the Headmaster would like a word before we eat." She sat down as Dumbledore stood up, blue eyes twinkling as he surveyed the room.

"Good evening students, staff, and to all our invited chaperones. In these dark times, I hope this will give everyone a spot of brightness to help them forget for at least a little while what is going on outside of these grounds. Tonight we are celebrating the Yuletide and I wish you all many happy seasons to come. Now with that said, tuck in and have a good time!"

The hall erupted into cheers and excited conversations as the food appeared on the tables. Everyone oohed at ahhed at the splendid feast that had been prepared. Dumbledore looked over at Harry from where she was sitting across the table from him. His features were set into a smile, blue eyes eyeing the fare with delight as he reached for a large helping of turkey.

"Headmaster, will you be opening the dancing with Harry?" McGonagall asked thoughtfully.

"Alas no, she has chosen another. I shall be interested to know which of you three she has selected."

"None of us," Sirius scowled. "She did promise me the second dance though."

"And I have the third."

"May I have the fourth, Miss Potter?" Severus asked formally.

"I have a special dance planned for you Severus, but yes you may. I shall speak with the string quartet to have them prepared."

"Indeed, and what dance would that be?"

"You'll see. Suffice it to say your uncle has been practicing with me following some of the potions lessons you were not able to do with me."

"Then I shall look forward to our dance."

"Remus will you dance with me too?"

"I'm not a very good dancer." Remus looked up shyly.

"That's okay; I will enjoy dancing with you anyway."

"Than I will be happy to dance with you, Princess. Just let me know when you're ready."

"I will," Harry answered happily, looking around at her family.

"Harry, I understand you are a protected witch," James stated matter of factly. "It is most unusual. I believe such a thing has not been done in many years."

"So I was told. It seemed like a good idea at the time, although Sirius was not happy about it."

"That is understandable. It puts you in a unique position. Wouldn't you agree?"

"I suppose so," she shrugged aware that Dumbledore was giving her father a warning look. 'I wonder if there is something about this that Albus has not told me.' Harry considered watching the interaction of the two men. 'My dad must know something that I don't.'

"Harry, how do you like teaching here at Hogwarts?" Lily cut in. She was not fully aware of what this Protected Witch Status was herself being a Muggle born but she knew her husband understood something that Harry didn't. She did not want James to start anything with Albus during the ball.

"I love teaching. It is fun and often challenging."

"I understand Professor Snape has been working with you towards becoming a full Master of Potions. You must have done very well while you were in school."

"I did my best," Harry replied casually. She knew her mother was aware of how she and Severus had not gotten along and was merely trying to change the subject away from the Protectorship.

"How do you feel about your Protectors in general," James questioned stubbornly. He was not about to let Lily change the subject.

"They've always been there for me. Sirius and Remus were my father's best friends and at one time, my dad saved Professor Snape's life. I would think he would have approved of them given the circumstances." Harry knew she could not openly acknowledge her father and deliberately spoke to him as if he were a stranger.

"I'm sure he did." Lily gave James a dark look. "What was it like to kill a basilisk?"

"Bloody scary," Harry smiled at her mum, "but meeting Tom Riddle was even scarier."

"What was he like as a boy?" James wanted to know. He understood Lily was not going to let him continue with the questions he had about the Protectorship and Dumbledore's eyes held a real look of disapproval. Sirius and Remus shifted uncomfortably while Severus wore a closed expression.

"Tom was actually a very handsome young man. Cold as ice though and evil even then. I kind of wondered what went wrong. The Headmaster told me he was a brilliant student."

"Ah...Harry we may never know," Dumbledore said sadly. "He was an angry young man and thrived on being the center of attention."

"Humph," Severus snorted, "he still does. He has no feelings for anyone but himself and destroys everything he touches."

"I think it's rather sad. He could have been one of the greatest wizards of the time but his desire for power outweighed his need to admit he needed someone to love. What is the saying? Absolute power corrupts absolutely." Harry remarked.

"He would tell you that he is the greatest wizard that ever lived, Princess."

"No, Remus, he thinks he is. He is actually very weak."

"How can you say that, Harry, after all he has done? He has ruined more lives than any other dark wizard in history," Sirius stormed. "Look what he did to all of us."

"Sirius calm down. You are missing my point. He uses and takes. He has no idea how to give and that is what drove him over the edge. He doesn't want others to have what he was never able to attain. He has no understanding of how to love. If you can't love then you have no power. Not in the end anyway. Even if he were to win the war how long do you think it would be before his own followers rose against him? Ten years, twenty maybe? To him they are just objects to do his bidding and in time they would come to realize that. Eventually he would go after their families too."

"Enough of this dark talk," Dumbledore interrupted. "This is supposed to be a happy night and you are all talking about the one thing we wish to put aside for the evening."

"I apologize, Albus, I didn't mean to get you upset." Harry lowered her eyes.

"It is all right, Child. You were right about what you said. That is one of your biggest differences. Now, how about you open the ball? I for one am anxious to see which young man has caught your fancy."

"I already told you, it's my first true love." Harry noted that her three Protectors shifted in their seats as Dumbledore rose tapping on his glass.

"Attention everyone," he addressed the room. "Now that we have all finished our dinner we will start the dancing. It is tradition here at Hogwarts that the first dance is always a waltz but don't worry there will be rock music too." The students all clapped and the Weird Sister's waved jovially from where they were sitting while the string quartet took their places on the dais. They would alternate every fifteen minutes. Dumbledore continued as the applause died down. "Tonight I have asked Miss Potter to open the festivities with the partner of her choosing. So if you will give her a hand while she makes her choice.

Harry glared at Dumbledore as the students yelled, "Speech! Speech!" She put up her hands for quiet knowing she would have to say something.

"Tonight is a night for us all to remember, each of us in our own way. I hope we will all look back on it fondly with warmth and happiness. It is a time for sharing of friendships and finding new loves. A time to look to the future and know that on this day we were all a part of something special. For some of you here it will be your last Yule Ball and I hope you will remember it fondly. For the younger students it is a time to make new friends and get to know one another better. But listen to me, I am rattling on like the Headmaster," she grinned as the students all laughed, "so how about we get going and have some fun." They cheered as she moved onto the dance floor. Her father waited until she signaled him. "I have decided to dance with someone who holds a special place in my heart and hope that one day we will be able to dance together again under the stars," Harry could see Sirius still scowling as she made this statement and Remus just looked down at his plate. Severus jaw had set in his perpetual sneer. 'And they think I get jealous?' she laughed inwardly before continuing aloud. "I have selected a waltz from Johann Strauss so if the quartet is ready...?" The leader nodded his head as they brought up their instruments. "In that case, I would ask my partner to come forward and we shall start the dancing."

James slowly rose to give Harry a moment to steady herself and walked over to his daughter. Harry grinned wickedly as Sirius nearly fell off his chair, Remus jaw dropped, and both of Severus brows shot up. None of them had ever considered she would dance with her father. Dumbledore was beaming with delight and the staff and those who knew who Julian really was were clapping wildly. She could see her mother wiping a tear from her face and Hermione was crying openly. Even Draco looked pleased.

The music started and James took Harry in his arms and moved her gracefully around the room. Someone had dimmed the torches so that the stars in the enchanted ceiling shone brightly overhead. Neither of them spoke. They didn't have too. James knew she loved him. He was just so happy to hold her and dance. Harry also was happy. For one night at least she could be her father's little girl. She could have something to remember that was all her own and not someone else's memory of him. She could see the joy on her mother's face as the Headmaster escorted her to the dance floor to join them. Sirius and Remus were both grinning from ear to ear and even Severus had a thin smile, his dark eyes watching her with admiration. Tonight at least she could just be plain Harry. Not the girl in the prophecy or the one who would defeat the Dark Lord but just Harry.

All too soon the waltz ended and James looked down at her as Lily came to join them. He didn't say anything just kissed her gently on the forehead before he handed her to her mother for a hug. He then took his wife in his arms for the next dance. Sirius had come over from the table taking Harry into his arms for the next dance.

"You might have told us you had asked James to dance with you," he grinned sheepishly.

"It was too much fun to watch you squirm. You're always telling me not to get jealous so I just told you the truth. I chose my first love to open the dance."

"You're right, you know. They say a girl's first love is her father."

"You should have seen your expression," she giggled. "Who did you think I was going to dance with? You damn near fell off your chair."

"I...ah...thought maybe you were seeing Charlie Weasley."

"Sirius, Charlie is a nice guy but I think he rather likes your cousin Tonks." Harry nodded to where they were dancing together. "I did feel a bit sorry for Remus though. He looked so worried and sad."

"I thought he would go crazy earlier when I told him you said you were dancing with your love. He growled and got that wolfish expression in his eyes when he is angry and that doesn't happen too often."

"Poor Remus. I should have let him in on the secret," Harry remarked feeling badly for the werewolf. "What did Severus say about the whole thing?"

"He just said you had every right to dance with whom ever you wished but when we left the dungeon I heard him smash something."

Harry threw back her head and laughed. She was more relaxed than she had been for a long time and was thoroughly enjoying herself. She did the next dance with Dumbledore as promised. The quartet then took a break and the Weird Sister's started with a slow dance so she danced with Remus. He had lied about being a bad dancer and Harry suspected it was just his shyness and wariness of getting too close to people that kept him off the dance floor.

"I'm proud of you, Princess. I know how hard this whole thing has been for you."

"Remus, this was something I had to do. I owed it to them and more importantly I owed it to myself. I still have to keep my distance but for one night I just wanted to be me."

"I understand and I'm sorry I was jealous."

"Yeah, I heard you went wolf on poor Sirius today," she teased.

"Sometimes my other half has to let off a little steam," he whispered wickedly.

They both returned to the table then the music ended. Severus joined them a few minutes later. He had been dancing with Circe. James and Lily were still on the dance floor as was Sirius. He was dancing wildly with Hermione. Harry was surprised to see the healer, Dr. McBride, but realized he was a member of the Order and must have been invited too. He was paying a good deal of attention to Professor McGonagall who was blushing like a schoolgirl. Draco and Ginny seemed to be having a good time while Neville had just sat back down with Luna. She looked as spacey as ever. Harry laughed when she saw Phaedra dancing with Ron. He hated to dance, especially to fast rock music, but was not about to say no to the little girl.

"Harry would you like something to drink?" Severus asked leaning over so she could hear him over the loud music.

"A Butterbeer would be nice."

"Lupin, may I get you something also?"

"I'll have the same," the werewolf nodded.

"I shall be back shortly then," Severus said excusing himself.

"Are you having a good time, Princess?"

"For a change, yes. I haven't been this relaxed in ages," she admitted ruefully. "I just wish this whole night could go on forever."

"I know." Remus patted her shoulder gently. "How are Hermione and Ron's wedding plans going?"

"Ron is a nervous wreck every time he thinks about it. I just told him to think of it as being in a game of Quidditch. You're nervous when you first start out but then you relax as the game goes on. I told him once he has a few drinks at the reception he'll be fine."

Remus laughed in amusement. "What about Hermione. How has she been?"

"Worried about all the plans. She frets that something will go wrong."

"What did you say to her?"

"I told her it wouldn't matter. No one would probably know and that she would be married anyway. We ordered our dresses the other day."

"Are you going to wear robes?"

"No. The bridesmaids will be wearing traditional Muggle gowns but we have fur trimmed cloaks to wear over them since it will be February."

"Ron selected dark brown dress robes with brown trousers and white dress shirts for the men."

"That sounds nice. I like you in brown. It makes your golden eyes stand out."

"I would rather they didn't."

"Why, they're so beautiful."

Remus blushed giving her a small smile. "They weren't always this color. They were actually more of a hazel than gold when I was little."

Harry nodded in understanding. "Remus can I ask you a personal question? You don't have to answer if you don't want to."

"I can guess what you are going to ask."

"Oh and have you suddenly become a seer?" she teased.

"No, but I can see the look in your eyes and I can sense your anxiety."

"Then what is it you think I want to know?"

"You were going to ask me if I remember being bitten."

Harry frowned. "I won't deny it. Do you?"

"Some of it. I remember thinking the wolf was a dog and I wanted to play. Then all I remember is running when he started growling and chasing me. After that I woke up in St. Mungo's. My father looked defeated and my mother was crying. I was too young to understand why."

"I'm sorry. I didn't want you to dredge up a painful memory. I shouldn't have asked." Harry took his hand in hers.

"It was a long time ago, Princess. You have nothing to feel bad about. I accepted what I am a long time ago."

"If it's any consolation I want you to know that I think its kind of cool you're being a werewolf. I just feel badly knowing how painful it is for you when you transform."

"Would you love me less if I weren't a werewolf?" he questioned curiously.

"No, I would love you even if you were a vampire."

"That's more Severus speed," he joked as the other man returned with the drinks.

"I am not a vampire."

"He's just teasing, Sev. You would scare the crap out of any self respecting vampire with that glare of yours," Harry laughed giving him a peck on the cheek.

"I have no idea what you are talking about, Miss Potter," he stated putting on his most feared expression.

"You're right, Harry. He would scare any self respecting vampire away. Hell, he even scares me," Remus chuckled as Harry eyed Severus coyly.

"I believe you still owe me a dance, Harry." Snape remarked as the band again changed back to the quartet and Sirius plopped back into his chair.

"Then give me a minute. I have a special dance in mind for you tonight. Your uncle Tiberius taught it to me."

"So you told me before," he said standing to help with her chair. Harry went over to the musicians and had a rapid conversation. They seemed to like what she said and were shaking their heads in understanding.

"Now what is she up to?" Sirius wondered out loud.

"I'm sure we will find out shortly, Black. What ever it is she seems rather pleased."

"She did say she had a special dance for you, Severus. What ever it is your uncle helped her cook it up."

"That's what worries me," Severus frowned.

"All set, are you ready to dance?" Harry asked coming back to the table.

"I shall be honored." Severus took her hand escorting her back onto the floor.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, we have had a special request for the next dance. If you will please clear the floor for Miss Potter and her partner, Professor Snape," the lead musician announced. "They will be dancing the Tango!"

"A tango, Harry?" Severus eyes locked on hers glittering with undeniable excitement.

"I heard it is your favorite dance."

"I hope you're up to it." He arched his brow, sneering, but she knew he was pleased.

The music started and they began to dance. She followed his lead without a problem as he guided her through the steps of the passionate dance. She lost herself in the number as they weaved and dipped. The room was silent as they moved and all eyes were on them. Tiberius was actually smiling and Circe just shook her head amused. Harry's parents were watching with unabashed interest. Hermione was looking at Ron with a dreamy expression. Sirius had to take a large gulp of his drink to quell his own passions as he watched their synchronized movements. The Headmaster was enthralled and Remus had to suppress the urge to howl as the dance called to his inner beast. When the music finally ended Harry and Severus were locked in the final pose as the room erupted into applause. He gently released her and they walked back to their seats.

"Now that was fun," Harry breathed taking a sip of her Butterbeer.

"You certainly looked like you were enjoying yourself," Sirius scowled.

"Is that why you have your robes pulled over your thighs?" Harry asked feigning innocence. It was one of the few times she had ever seen Sirius blush. She was aware he was trying to overcome an erection. Remus was pretending to look at the ceiling.

"I think you all need a cold drink," James laughed. "Come on lets all go outside and cool down. You too Lil. I hear the garden is fantastic."

"Excuse me," Draco said politely as he came over to their table with Ginny. "I don't mean to interrupt but if Harry doesn't mind I would like to dance with her."

"So long as Ginny says its alright."

"Sure, Harry go ahead. I promised the next dance to Bill anyway," she replied waving to her oldest brother.

They all rose and Harry went to dance a fast Polka with Draco as the others went outside.

"So Potter, do you think my godfather would teach me and Ginny how to tango?"

"I'm sure if you ask him he would be happy to oblige. It's his favorite dance according to his uncle Tiberius."

"You two really had everyone going when you were out there. Ginny was holding her breath."

"I think she was just wishing it was the two of you."

"We both were," Draco admitted with a smile.

"You know, Draco, you're not half bad when you aren't acting like a spoiled prat."

"Neither are you, Potter."

They had finished their dance and Harry was on her way back to her seat when Justinian approached her.

"Harry, have you seen Phaedra? Circe wants to put her to bed but she can't find her. She's gone to check the bathroom but I know she's worried."

"I'm sure she's fine, Justinian. She has a habit of getting into mischief though. I'll go and check the garden. Why don't you go with Draco and check the halls and alert the Aurors just to be on the safe side."

Justinian nodded nervously and Harry went outside. She stood for a moment looking around. 'Now if I were Phaedra where would I go?' she considered. Nodding to herself with a grin she headed through the garden to look at the different sculptures. The garden was warm as the temperature was magically controlled all year and spells kept the ice from melting. Nearing the display of Santa and his reindeer, Harry heard the little girl talking to someone. She immediately quickened her pace.

"Do you like it here?" Phaedra asked.

"It's warm and I don't have to hide underground as much." Another voice replied.

"What do you do for food?"

"I hunt. There are plenty of mice and shrews to eat."

Harry stopped dead in her tracks. She suddenly realized that she was listening to the little girl talking with a snake. Phaedra was speaking in Parseltongue. Creeping closer she looked through a display of fir trees and saw the child sitting down on a bench with a small garden snake at her feet.

"Yech, I don't think they must taste very good. I like to eat strawberries."

"What are strawberries?" the snake questioned.

"They're fruit. They are really yummy with cake and whipped cream."

"I don't know what that is either."

"It is something sweet that humans like to eat," Harry addressed the snake as she came out of the bushes. "I see you have met my friend, Phaedra."

"Yes, the small one has been talking with me. I have never talked with people before. I did not know you could understand my language."

"Only a few of us can. It is very rare. Have you lived in this garden long?"

"I was hatched nearby. I know no other place."

"Miss Harry, I didn't know snakes could talk English."

"They can't Phaedra. It seems you are able to speak Parseltongue just like me." Harry explained quietly.

"But I heard him talk English!"

"No, in your head you hear the English but you are actually speaking the snake language."

"I do not know what you are saying," the snake hissed.

"I was explaining to Phaedra why she can understand you," Harry hissed in Parselmouth.

"I must be going now," the snake hissed back. "I am on the hunt tonight. It is time to feed."

"I would suggest you try over by the far edge of the garden. I heard the grounds keeper saying he had found a new mouse burrow that way," Harry informed the snake.

"Thanks," it replied slithering away.

"Wait till mummy and daddy hear I can talk to the snakes just like you!" Phaedra beamed.

"Phaedra, you can't say anything about this. Not yet, anyway."

"Why?"

"Because they may get upset at first. Some people think only dark wizards are able to talk to snakes."

"But you're not a dark witch and you can talk to them."

"I got the ability from the Dark Lord when he put the curse on me."

"Did I get it from him too?" she asked fearfully.

"I don't think so. I have an idea you may have picked it up from me with your telepathy but I'm not sure."

"That's okay then, right?"

"Yes, but I still don't want you to say anything. At least not until I have time to think about this. It would be best if no one knows since it may get back to the Dark Lord."

"Will he be mad?"

"Maybe but I don't want you to take the chance of him finding out. In the meantime don't be afraid. This can be our secret until I can figure out what to do."

"Okay, Miss Harry. I won't tell and I won't talk to the snake any more."

"You probably won't see him. Most of the time the snakes are only out at night. Now let's go and find your parents. They have been looking for you. It is time for you to go to bed. Everyone forgot the time and you actually got to stay for an extra hour."

"Okay, Miss Harry. I'm tired anyway."

She took Harry's hand and they walked back inside together. Circe was understandingly happy that Phaedra was safe. Harry told Circe not to be angry. Phaedra had just been attracted to the lights and was sitting on one of the benches. She never mentioned the snake. Harry was about to go over to her table when she realized that the others were not yet back. She hadn't seen them outside so she surmised that they had gone the opposite way. Heading back in that direction she could hear voices and stopped to listen when she heard her name.

"You three have got to say something to her," Lily cried exasperated. "She should have been told from the beginning!"

"Lils, there is nothing to be getting excited about. It is a very ancient ritual and Harry agreed to it."

"Yes, but she was never told the entire truth."

"Listen Lily, we all decided among ourselves that it should be her choice. We never intended to keep her in the dark like this forever. I just felt she was too young at the time. She was barely seventeen for Christ's sake." Sirius agitated voice reached her ears.

"Sirius is right. I will talk to Dumbledore," James soothed his wife. "Harry is of age and should be made aware of what the entire ritual can entail."

"I still think it stinks!"

"Lily, Harry is a young lady. She may be a bit shocked since she was raised by your sister and her family but she is also a witch," Severus stated smoothly. "This is a part of her heritage. The choice will be hers."

"What do you think, Remus?" Lily's worried voice questioned.

"I think Harry will be angry more at Dumbledore for not telling her the full facts about a Protectorship. She may be a bit shocked but she has a good sense of responsibility and will realize that this was kept from her because it was believed she wouldn't be able to understand it. She knows there is nothing like it in the Muggle world."

"But it can affect her whole life and yours as well."

"We did not agree to this lightly, Lily. It is an honor to be asked and we all understood the various outcomes. It was one of the few things we all entirely agreed upon." Snape's cool voice responded.

"Very well, but I think she should be told and soon!"

Their voices dropped at that point and Harry could no longer hear what they were saying. Obviously it had to do with her Protectorship. Whatever it was she was not going to wait to find it out from the Headmaster. She was going to go and find out what she could with a little help from Hermione. There must be something somewhere in the library. Hermione had said she had read about it but she must have missed something or she would have told her. Taking a deep breath Harry proceeded the rest or the way up the path to where she knew they were sitting.

"Hey, I have been looking for you everywhere," she called rounding the path. She hoped she sounded convincing.

"Sorry, Princess, we got to talking and didn't realize you would be looking for us so soon. You seemed to be having such a good time dancing."

"There is only so long one can dance. I would dearly like to have some cake and coffee. It should be time for the elves to be putting it out."

"I'm right with you on that, Love," Sirius chuckled. "I could do with a bit of a snack."

"When aren't you hungry, Black? Between you and young Mr. Weasley the food budget must have tripled," Severus sneered as they all walked back to the ball.

They spent the remainder of the evening relaxing and chatting. Harry danced with her protectors and Ron after cornering him over by the dessert table. She deliberately took the last chocolate brownie and said he couldn't have it till he danced with her. Ron, always liking a good brownie, agreed. The sweet was left with Hermione for safekeeping. Harry would seek out her friend tomorrow and try to find out what was going on. In the mean time she wasn't going to let it worry her.

Finally, it was time for the last dance of the evening. Her mother looked at Harry and then glanced over towards her husband. Harry took the not so subtle hint and spent one final dance in her father's arms before she would have to deal with what she knew was coming.

Half way through the dance James grabbed Lily and danced with the two of them. He smiled happily at his two girls. Her parents knew that soon Harry would have to face the ordeal of having to say good-bye and how much it would hurt her. Their only solace was that each knew they would watch out for her until it was time for them to meet again...

19