Excitement ran through the corridors of Hogwarts. Those who had seen the display of power were awed, but some were fearful. To them it represented an end to any hopes they had of reclaiming the position of power they held last year.
One of those who feared the rise of this new power was Pansy Parkinson. She had seen the final part of Harry's display, as he had taken on four opponents and won, seemingly without too much trouble. Any plans she had for revenge would have to be rethought until she could find a way around the skill of Harry Potter.
Pansy sat in the Slytherin common room and seethed. She thought it was bad enough that she had to return to Hogwarts this year, despite having been a seventh year student last year. Her return was caused by her abysmal performance in all subjects last year except Dark Arts, as the subject had been renamed then.
The death of her parents during the battle of Hogwarts had left her with no option but to try and secure employment, but her poor grades and reputation had seen her blocked at every turn. The children of Death Eaters were being shunned, and she knew her treatment of other students during the previous year was well known, even if she had evaded punishment for it.
The only option left to her had been to return to Hogwarts and attempt to achieve better grades, while hoping that a year away from the public might help to diminish the negative reputation she currently had. It had cost her every Galleon she had left to attend school, after she was denied a grant from the victim's fund. That rejection had come without an explanation, just a letter advising her she would not be receiving assistance at this time.
Now, just over a week into the new school year, she was plotting her enemy's demise, and cursing the wizarding world for the situation she now found herself in. She had watched as Harry Potter and his friends had been welcomed back as heroes, while she was shunned. She was also furious that she had not been offered a chance to take her exams early and leave this stone prison she felt she was trapped in.
And then had come the final insult. Her beloved Slytherin House was infested with mudbloods and blood traitors, worming their way in and taking her final refuge from her. The presence of mudbloods in her house had only become apparent after the twelve year old twins were assigned to Slytherin. At first she thought it was a mistake, but after their first day of lessons the twins had come back babbling about their famous teacher, Harry Potter, and how wonderful it was going to be to learn from him and his friends.
Pansy had been left numb by the revelation, and had taken it as a personal insult to her and her house. It had only gotten worse from then on, as other Slytherin students felt safe enough to reveal their birth heritage. The students from the first four years were a mixture of the pure blooded, half blooded, and mudbloods. She had been horrified as she realised what had been done to the ancient and noble house of Salazar Slytherin.
Now she and her few remaining friends found themselves as outcasts in their own school house. The fear she had instilled in people last year was nothing more than a memory and she feared that those who had suffered her wrath last year might now wish to ensure she suffered for her unpunished crimes. In fact, she wasn't entirely sure why she had been allowed to re-enter the school in the first place.
Her enemies knew what she had done last year, especially the blood traitor, Ginny Weasley. While she despised Ginny and her fawning behaviour around Harry Potter, she also feared Ginny, as the girl knew what crimes she had committed. The use of the unforgivable curses usually resulted in a stay within the walls of Azkaban, but Alecto and Amycus Carrow had encouraged there use by certain students last year, her being one of them. While she had revelled in the power she held last year, it had all turned to ashes on the night of the battle. Her parents had died and her friends had been taken from her.
Goyle was in Azkaban awaiting trial for his alleged crimes last year, Crabbe was dead at the hand of her enemies, and she had not seen Draco Malfoy for nearly eighteen months, but she knew he was still in hiding with his father.
Pansy wondered how she might make contact with Draco and attempt to rejoin him. While they had never been in love, or particularly close now that she thought about it; they had shared a relationship of physical comfort and she thought that ought to count for something.
The laughter from the other side of the common room drew her attention. She saw the little mudbloods from Harry Potter's class talking and giggling with the younger housemates, praising their new hero and his spectacular abilities. Pansy was not impressed by Harry and his skills. She viewed it as another obstacle to overcome if she was ever going to avenge her own losses.
*
The Headmistresses Office was currently playing host to a group of rather bewildered witches and wizards. Until today, their own abilities had been considered formidable by most, but their confidence had been badly shaken by a grinning teenager. Their only consolation at this point was that the teenager in question was Harry Potter.
Kingsley Shacklebolt paced in front of the fire place as he addressed the three people seated before him.
"Let me get this straight. Harry Potter just defeated four highly skilled witches and wizards, two of them being Aurors, without resorting to anything more powerful than a stunning spell?"
Gawain Robards glanced at Minerva McGonagall and Alicia O'Riley before he answered. He could see the same look of embarrassment and astonishment on their faces, as he knew must be on his.
"Kingsley, let me make this clear. What we witnessed this afternoon was a display of power so extraordinary that the wizarding world will be talking about it for a hundred years. At the moment I am just glad that Harry is on our side."
Minerva nodded as Gawain finished speaking. "He's right, Kingsley. I don't think even Albus could have beaten him." She glanced around the room. "I don't know about the others, but I wasn't holding anything back by the end."
Alicia grunted. "I didn't even have a chance to really get going. Once he started apparating around the hall, I may as well have put my wand away and waited for him to stun me, which is effectively what happened."
Kingsley was trying not to smile. He knew these people were extraordinarily gifted, and while Harry was apparently considerably more powerful than any of them, he would still need to keep all the allies on side that he could. After all, Harry was only just one man.
"What do you think we should do, Minerva?" Kingsley asked with interest.
Minerva thought for a moment. "I don't see that we can do anything except make sure Harry can control the power. I had intended to train him in just that skill shortly, and how to stop his eyes giving away his emotions, but after seeing his eyes glow while he fights, I can tell you it doesn't disadvantage him at all. In fact, I found it very distracting, while it didn't affect him at all."
Gawain was shocked. "You've seen it before? I saw it in his first Charms class too. Do you know what causes it?"
Minerva shrugged. "Albus told us that it was power radiating from Harry. Apparently it occurs whenever his emotions are running very high. Great joy or anger can trigger it."
Gawain smiled at that. "I almost forgot to strike when I saw his eyes flash. It really was something, Kingsley."
Kingsley nodded. "I have also seen it before, a few months ago. Unfortunately that was during a period of... rage, if I had to guess." Kingsley shuddered as he recalled the incident and he saw Minerva pale for a moment. "What do you think he was feeling today?"
"It's hard to say," began Minerva, "but if I had to guess, I'd say happiness. He did seem to be enjoying himself, and he also used a verbal spell when he didn't have to. I suspect he may have been showing off for his students."
Gawain's eyes widened at that. "You're right, Minerva. He didn't need to say the spell out loud but he did anyway." Gawain shook his head. "Oh, please don't tell me he was just having a bit of fun by that point?"
Minerva chuckled. "He attacked me with two wands at once, Gawain, one of them being yours. I didn't even know you could wield two wands at the same time."
Kingsley was becoming confused. "You can use two wands at once, but they both fire the same spell at the same time, that's all. I've seen it done."
"You don't understand, Kingsley, he used two wands at the same time and produced two different spells one after the other," said Minerva.
"Actually, it was three spells, Minerva," said Gawain. "He produced a shield with my wand, and fired a stunning spell at you with his wand, and then he disillusioned himself."
Minerva felt her jaw drop. "So that's how he did it. I thought he had apparated again, but he didn't reappear for a long time. Just waiting for me to look the wrong way, the cheeky sod." Minerva smiled ruefully.
Kingsley stopped pacing and looked at Minerva. "So he didn't stun you, even though he could have?"
Minerva shook her head. "He disarmed me instead. The boy has some common sense at least. I would have given him a month's worth of detentions if he had stunned me in front of the students."
The group all laughed as they talked long into the night. Finally, Kingsley asked the question Gawain had been waiting for.
"Should we move Harry into the Auror training program now?"
Gawain desperately wanted to say yes, but now that the moment was upon him, he couldn't do it to the lad.
"I have already spoken to Harry about that possibility," said Gawain, ignoring the very stern glare he was now receiving from Minerva. "He told me he would not leave Hogwarts until he had fulfilled his commitment to you and Minerva to teach for a year."
Kingsley and Minerva shared a look. Both of them smiled as they considered this.
"Oh well," said Kingsley, "at least his little students will have a great teacher for their first year."
Minerva beamed as she tried to give Gawain a sympathetic look. "Don't worry, you'll get him soon enough."
"Right," said Kingsley, "now that I know where Harry and his friends will be at Halloween, may I impose upon the school to host a very special event on behalf of the Ministry, Minerva?"
Minerva raised an eyebrow. "What sort of event?"
Kingsley explained for a minute before receiving the full support of Minerva McGonagall, who was delighted as she imagined the possibility of rendering Harry Potter speechless.
*
Ginny brushed the black hair out of Harry's eyes and she saw that the glow was fading, to be replaced by their regular green shade. Harry kissed her gently as he rolled to one side and lay beside her, draping his arm across her body as the fire and moonlight danced within their room.
Ginny smiled and closed her eyes, savouring the feeling of contentment she now had. It had been six weeks since Harry had astounded everyone with his display in the Great Hall. She still felt giddy just thinking about it. The power and speed had been incredible, but it was the flashes from his eyes that stood out in her memory.
Harry's eyes had scared her when he was angry or upset in the past, but she had become used to it now. She hadn't seen him angry for over two months now, and again the glowing eyes represented only good things to her. During his duel, she knew it was adrenaline and excitement that had been running through Harry; he had told her as much later that evening.
At dinner after the duel, she had watched as Harry was congratulated and praised by nearly everyone. His little students had come to him as a group and kept shouting 'Expelliarmus' as they re-enacted Harry's disarming of Gawain Robards. After they had left, Harry explained to her, Ron, and Hermione, that he was teaching the kids that very spell in their Defence Against the Dark Arts lessons, and he had only performed it verbally so his students could see it in action. She and Ron had laughed, while Hermione had rolled her eyes, muttering something about showing off.
Back in their room that night, Ginny had asked Harry to teach her how to apparate. She had not had a chance to learn during the previous year, but she was now of age and could sit the test if she could learn how to do it. Harry had readily agreed and asked Minerva McGonagall if he could arrange to have the wards lowered to teach Ginny. Minerva had realised that a lot of students this year were of age and still couldn't apparate. She arranged for an early class to be run by the Ministry instructors for those of age, but gave Harry permission to join them to teach Ginny one on one.
Ginny smiled as she thought about the apparation lessons. It had taken her a few lessons before she had been able to apparate with confidence. Then Harry had told her to follow him before he apparated around the hall and she had chased him, laughing as she finally caught up with him. The Ministry instructor had then informed her that they were disrupting the other students and that she no longer needed any further training. The instructor gave her a certificate and politely asked her to leave.
Harry had turned to the instructor at that point and informed him he had not received a certificate either, as he never took the lessons. The instructor had muttered under his breath as he quickly made out a certificate for Harry, and then showed them the door.
Since then, she and Harry had been going to the forested area between the school and Hogsmeade, practicing apparating as they chased each other through the trees. To Ginny it was a feeling like flying, and while Harry could move faster than her, she was starting to get faster.
Ginny had also gone to the Quidditch trials with Harry four weeks ago. As she watched the younger students flying, Harry had told her he wasn't going to try out for the team because it wouldn't be fair to the others as he was a teacher. Ron had also decided not to try out because he wanted to spend his free time with Hermione, who had no interest in Quidditch.
Ginny had tried out briefly, but her heart wasn't in it as she saw Harry watching her from the stands. He was standing and cheering for her as she flew, but all she could think about was being with him, and how much time she would lose with Harry if she made the team. Suddenly Quidditch had seemed so trivial compared to her other goals in life, so she had withdrawn herself from the trial, much to the disappointment of the new captain.
Harry had understood her decision. He too found he could no longer maintain the enthusiasm he had once held for the game. Upon learning of Ginny's withdrawal, Minerva had come to see her and ask her to reconsider; but Minerva had quickly realised that Ginny wasn't going to budge. It was apparent to Minerva that Ginny didn't want to try and recapture her previous years at Hogwarts. She was aiming higher.
As a consolation, Harry had asked Ginny to become the teacher of the muggle born classes flying lessons. Ginny had jumped at the chance, and had found the teaching role just as rewarding as winning the Quidditch Cup, as she watched her students develop under her guidance.
Now, as the cold weather had fully set in, Ginny was warm and comfortable as she lay with Harry, listening to the fire crackling in the fireplace and contemplating the recent announcement of a Ball that was to be held on Halloween, instead of the traditional feast. It was only two weeks from now, and she would get the chance to dance with Harry; something they hadn't done since his birthday, and she couldn't wait.
*
The following morning in the Great Hall, Harry had been surprised to find two letters had arrived for him. The first was from Luna Lovegood, wanting to know if he was still willing to give an interview to the Quibbler. The second had almost caused Harry to choke and his eyes flashed for a moment, startling Ginny.
Harry showed the letter to Ginny. It was a request from Narcissa Malfoy to testify on her behalf as to her actions on the night of the Battle of Hogwarts. Ginny had been offended that the woman had even had the nerve to consider the possibility, let alone actually write to Harry and ask.
"What is she thinking?" asked Ginny angrily.
"That she doesn't want to go to Azkaban," said Harry, shaking his head. "She thinks that if I testify that she lied to Voldemort in order to save me, the Wizengamot might be lenient towards her."
"But she didn't lie to save you, she lied to save Draco," insisted Ginny.
"I know, Gin, but that same lie did save my life."
"Harry, you can't be seriously thinking about doing this. Hermione would be very upset," said Ginny.
"Very upset about what?" asked Hermione.
Harry and Ginny both cringed. They had been so absorbed by their own concerns they hadn't noticed Hermione and Ron had arrived at the table and were now standing beside them. Harry felt the blood drain from his face. He wasn't sure of what he should say.
"Uh... nothing important, Hermione. I wasn't going to do it anyway," said Harry quickly.
Ginny nodded her head in agreement. "Nothing to worry about."
Hermione and Ron sat down with Harry and Ginny. Hermione fixed them with a piercing stare.
"One of you had better tell me what's going on, right now."
Ginny bit her bottom lip as she looked from Hermione to Harry and back again. She slowly stretched her hand towards Hermione and gave her the letter from Narcissa. Hermione read the letter quickly before she threw it onto the table and scowled.
"She thinks you can save her, does she?" hissed Hermione through clenched teeth.
Harry nodded, as Ron picked up the letter and read it. He handed it back to Harry as he put an arm around Hermione. Harry watched Ron cautiously as he sat beside Hermione, apparently unmoved by the request.
"I think you should do it," said Ron thoughtfully.
"What... why?" asked Harry, startled by his best friend's comment.
"If she thinks you can save her, she is being very selective with her memory," said Ron darkly. "When they ask you to describe what happened, remember to start at the very beginning. Don't forget to mention the parts about torture, kidnapping, and murder, all carried out in her home with her permission."
Hermione put her head on Ron's shoulder as a tear rolled down her cheek. Ron held Hermione and waited for Harry to respond.
Harry was shocked by Ron's idea. He looked at Ginny and saw a grin on her face, but he didn't think it had anything to do with being happy.
"I need to talk to McGonagall about this," said Harry. "I'll testify against her if I can, but not for her. It's the least Hermione and Dobby deserve."
Hermione gave Harry a weak smile as Ron looked at him. He nodded his head once at Harry before returning his attention to Hermione. Ginny took Harry's hand.
"Come on, Harry," said Ginny. "We can talk to her before lessons start if we hurry."
*
"Enter, Mr Potter."
Harry stepped into the Headmistresses Office and found Minerva McGonagall sitting behind her desk as if she had been waiting for him. He had been given the password to get passed the gargoyle some time ago, but he still thought it was polite to knock first.
"And Miss Weasley, I see. What can I do for you both?" asked Minerva.
Harry took the letter out of his pocket and handed it to Minerva. "I received this today. I would like your opinion on what you think I should do."
Minerva read the letter before handing it back to Harry.
"This is a matter between you and Narcissa Malfoy, Harry. My only advice would be to do what you think is right."
"Do I have to testify?" asked Harry, not entirely sure how wizarding courts worked.
"Of course not. This is a request only, and you are not bound to do anything," said Minerva.
Harry looked at the letter in his hand. He had known he would be called to a hearing sooner or later, but he had never imagined it would be by a Voldemort supporter.
Minerva watched Harry closely. She had known he would receive this letter today. Harry didn't know it, but his mail was still being scanned by the Ministry, and was being held there with only a few exceptions being passed on. Mainly Harry's mail consisted of hundreds of marriage proposals and the occasional death threat, but every now and then a genuine letter arrived, and Kingsley had notified her of this letter last night. She was surprised Harry had come to her though; she had thought he would simply destroy the letter.
"What's troubling you, Harry?" asked Minerva kindly.
Harry looked back up. "Something Ron said gave me an idea, Minerva. He said I should testify about everything Narcissa did, not just what she did in the forest. I was wondering if I should testify against her, not for her."
"Would it serve any purpose to testify at all?" asked Minerva.
Harry considered his response. "It would give Hermione and Dobby a voice."
Minerva smiled at Harry. "Then your way forward is clear. Would you like me to notify the Wizengamot of your intention to testify against Narcissa Malfoy? I'm sure they would be very grateful for your assistance."
Harry looked at Ginny. "What do you think I should do?"
Ginny put her forehead against Harry's for a moment. As she pulled back Harry could see a tear in her eye.
"I will support your decision either way, but personally, I think you should make sure she is never free to hurt others again," said Ginny fiercely.
Harry nodded and turned back to Minerva. "Set it up, Minerva."
"Very well, Harry. Now, while you're here, I have had another request for your services," said Minerva with a smile.
Harry raised an eyebrow at that. "Oh yes, and what service may that be?"
"To teach," said Minerva, a twinkle in her eye.
Harry was confused. "To teach what? I already teach."
Minerva sighed. "I take it then, that you haven't noticed the looks of envy your students are receiving from the other first and second year students?"
Harry shook his head, while beside him, Ginny beamed. She had noticed for weeks now, how the other students watched Harry's class as they practiced spells together out in the grounds.
"Harry, the results achieved by you and your fellow teachers have been nothing short of remarkable. Your students are nearly at the appropriate level to begin the second year, after less than two months. Added to that, they are happily disarming each other out in the grounds as they re-enact your victory against Gawain and I," said Minerva, giving Harry a withering stare.
Harry blushed at this, still feeling a little guilty for disarming his Headmistress.
"These are spells that the regular second year class have not begun to learn yet," continued Minerva. "Hence to say, a group of the first and second year students took it upon themselves to start a petition, asking that they also be taught by Dumbledore's Army."
Harry gaped at Minerva. He knew his students were doing well, but he hadn't really noticed the other students looking at them. He had gotten so used to being looked at himself, that he just tuned it out.
Minerva chuckled as she saw Harry struggle with his words. "Relax, Harry. I wouldn't ask you to take on any more teaching duties. I just thought you might like to know that I am very proud of what you have all achieved, and that you have also inspired other youngsters to want to learn more."
Harry looked at the floor. "Yes, Minerva... thanks."
Minerva shared a quick grin with Ginny. "Before you both go, there is one more thing. Please make sure you have secured appropriate attire for the Halloween Ball. If you haven't yet, I suggest you do so, as you two will be called upon to lead the first dance."
Harry swallowed at that piece of news. Ginny bounced up and down.
*
"Can we come to the Ball, Harry? I swear we won't get in the way," begged Alex.
Harry gave his students a sad smile as they looked at him hopefully. "I'm sorry kids; the Ball is for fourth year students and above. It wouldn't be very fair to the other youngsters if you were allowed to go and they weren't."
Alex glared at Harry for a second. "They got to go to school last year and we didn't. That wasn't very fair."
Harry thought Alex had a point, as Vicky and Jack nodded their agreement. It was also the first time any of his students had mentioned their omission from Hogwarts last year. This was an interesting way to start the week.
Harry had to be careful here. "Alex, it wasn't the other students who stopped you from coming to school. They would have been happy to have you here. It was Voldemort and his supporters that kept you from attending this school."
Alex considered this for a minute, before he slowly nodded his understanding.
"I tell you what," said Harry, "Professor McGonagall told me this morning that you are all doing very well, so why don't we change our last class on Friday to an extra flying lesson as a little reward?"
Jack almost jumped out his seat. "That would mean we could fly all afternoon because we already have flying straight after lunch."
Harry grinned. "Yes, I suppose it would."
Alex, Vicky and Jack all jumped up and down as they contemplated a whole afternoon of flying. Max and Mary sat quietly and Harry was a little disconcerted by this. The twins loved to fly; they were naturals at it and he had expected them to be happy at the prospect of more flying time. Instead, they almost looked scared.
"Max, Mary, is something wrong?" asked Harry softly.
The twins looked at each other and Harry saw that they were definitely worried about something.
"Kids, settle down," said Harry to Alex, Vicky, and Jack. "Mary, are you okay?"
Harry thought Mary was about to cry as her bottom lip trembled. The other kids had noticed something was wrong now and had fallen silent.
"Sweetheart, it's okay, whatever it is I'm sure we can fix it," said Harry soothingly.
Max put his arm around his sister and looked up at Harry. "We heard something, Harry... something bad."
Harry was concerned now. Whatever was going on, it had clearly frightened his students.
"What did you hear, Max?"
"We heard some older kids talking about hurting you," said Max, now clearly shaken. "You and Ginny."
Harry felt his heart skip a beat before it restarted at an alarming speed. He didn't really worry about threats to him, but a threat to Ginny was something he couldn't ignore. He took a deep breath to calm himself before he spoke.
"Max, it's alright. Why don't you just tell me what you heard and I'll make sure it's taken care of?"
Max nodded. "We were in the common room, and it was late. Mary and I were heading to our Astronomy lesson at midnight, but we heard voices as we came down the stairs. We heard them talking about how they could attack you. Some of them were saying that you were too powerful, but one of them said you would be easy to get if they could get Ginny first. They said you had died for her, and you would do it again."
Harry's blood ran cold. This had happened on Friday night, and they were only just telling him now, two days later.
"Do you know who they were?" asked Harry, a little too forcefully he realised as he said it.
Max cowered under his glare.
"I'm sorry, Max," said Harry, getting himself back under control. "I'm not angry with you, but I really need to know everything you heard."
Max nodded again. "I'm sorry, Harry; we didn't see them because we were too scared to go passed them. When they finished talking they came up the staircase and we hid behind a statue. After that we went to our lesson."
Harry knew Max wasn't lying, but he might get Professor McGonagall to check further using Legilimency. She was far better at it than he was.
Harry was also kicking himself for not noticing something was troubling Max and Mary sooner. He had seen the twins several times in the Great Hall over the course of the weekend. He tried to recall if their distress had been obvious before now, but he just couldn't remember.
"Were the voices familiar to you?" asked Harry.
Max and Mary both shook their heads. "No," said Max, "but the one who said they should hurt Ginny first was a girl."
An idea occurred to Harry. "Max, would it be okay if I had a look at your memory of that night? Maybe I would recognise the voice."
Max nodded slowly, but Harry could tell he didn't really understand how Harry was going to look at his memory.
"Alright kids, we're going to go and see the Headmistress. She will be able to help us."
Max and Mary looked relieved as Harry led them through the corridors and up the staircase towards Professor McGonagall's office. Harry suspected they had been struggling with the idea of telling him about what they had heard for a while now. They may not have told him straight away because they were unsure of how he would react; or they may have feared he would not believe them. Harry remembered having the same problem during his second year when Dumbledore had asked him if he had anything he wanted to tell him about the Chamber of Secrets.
"Harry!" exclaimed a startled Minerva as Harry entered her office without knocking. Her eyes widened as she saw Harry also had his class with him. Her demeanour rapidly became very stern. "What is the meaning of this, Potter?"
Harry registered the use of his surname. "Professor, we may have a problem that needs our attention."
"Go on."
"Max and Mary overheard a conversation on Friday night. This conversation revolved around the best way to attack me. I think we should have a look at the kid's memories and see if we can learn any more. Unfortunately, they didn't see who was talking, they only heard it, but maybe we will recognise a voice," concluded Harry.
Minerva regarded Harry for a moment. She knew he would make a wonderful teacher if he ever changed his mind about being an Auror, but judging by the way he was going about trying to solve this little mystery, he would probably make an even better Auror.
"Very well, Mr Potter. Have you explained the process to your students?" asked Minerva.
Harry nodded. "They know what is going to happen, but I would be happy to demonstrate first, so they can see there is nothing to be worried about."
Minerva nodded as she made her way to the Pensieve. Harry looked at his students.
"Max and Mary, come with me. You three, why don't you have a look around at the portraits," suggested Harry. "These are all the previous Heads of the school."
Alex, Vicky, and Jack began making their way around the room while Max and Mary stepped to the Pensieve with Harry. Harry quickly extracted the memory of their earlier conversation in the classroom and placed it into the Pensieve. The twins had looked on with fascination, as they saw images of their conversation with Harry swirling around in the stone bowl.
Minerva asked Max and Mary both to think about the conversation they had overheard as she placed her wand against their temples one at a time. She extracted the silvery thread of memory and placed it into the Pensieve. Harry thanked the kids and sent them off to join the others while he and Minerva put their faces into the Pensieve and watched the memory.
After only two minutes, Harry pulled his face out of the stone bowl and looked at Minerva, his concern mirrored in her face.
"So," said Harry, his voice rasping, "Pansy Parkinson thinks she can get at me by hurting Ginny."
Harry felt his blood boil for a second. His power meant he was no longer an easily reachable target, so now people plotted to hurt those closest to him to get at him.
Minerva frowned. "It would seem so, but there was no direct threat indicating anything more than just talk. I'm afraid I can't do anything at the moment, Harry, but I will have Miss Parkinson and her friends watched from now on."
Harry almost objected until he saw the troubled look on Minerva's face. She was worried, but there was nothing more she could do. Harry nodded.
"Thank you, Minerva. I'll tell Ginny to be careful."
Harry looked around the room and saw his students standing in front of the portrait of Albus Dumbledore, listening to a story in rapt fascination.
"I think I had better get my students back to class before Professor Dumbledore starts telling them less than flattering stories about me," said Harry, making his way over to his students.
"Ah, Harry," said Albus Dumbledore brightly, "these delightful students have just been telling me what a wonderful teacher you are."
Harry looked down at his students and felt his cheeks redden. "Were they just?"
Harry's students looked at the floor while Dumbledore beamed at Harry.
"Look after them, Harry. Children are, after all, our greatest treasures."
"I will, Professor," said Harry, before turning back to his students. "Come on, you lot. We have a lesson to finish."
With that Harry ushered his class out the door and gave a small wave to Minerva as he left. Minerva chuckled as she watched them go. After the door had shut she addressed the portraits.
"Report back to me if you see or hear any suspicious activity in relation to Miss Pansy Parkinson, she is a seventh year Slytherin student."
*
The rest of the week passed by without incident, as Harry and Ginny kept an eye out for Pansy Parkinson and any of the older Slytherin students. Professor Slughorn had watched the memories of Max and Mary, but he had been unable to identify the other voices, but he was sure they would be fifth or sixth year students; after all, there were only a few seventh year students in Slytherin as most had chosen not to return to Hogwarts.
Gawain and Alicia had also been informed of the situation and were now paying extra attention to the older Slytherin students, but other than the usual grumbling about Harry, they detected no further hint of any plot to attack Harry or Ginny.
On Friday evening, following a very tiring double flying lesson with the muggle born class, Harry and Ginny were summoned to the Headmistresses office following dinner. When they had arrived at the office, they had been surprised to find Kingsley Shacklebolt was waiting for them.
"Hello Harry, Ginny. How are you both?" asked Kingsley, his deep voice booming as he greeted his young friends.
"Very well, thanks Kingsley," replied Harry with a smile, as he shook Kingsley's hand, "And you?"
Kingsley gave Ginny a quick hug before he moved to the sofas by the fireplace, a warm fire already merrily burning within. Harry and Ginny sat on one sofa while Kingsley and Minerva took the other. Kingsley regarded the young couple before he continued.
"To be honest, I'm troubled by some unusual developments concerning you, Harry."
Harry wasn't shocked by this. "What events exactly?"
"Several weeks ago, four bodies were discovered at an isolated farm house in the far north of the country. All four showed no signs of injury, or any other marks which would explain their deaths to the muggle authorities. As two of the victims were young men, it is causing quite a stir in that part of the country," said Kingsley.
Harry grunted. "The Killing Curse, I take it?"
Kingsley nodded. "Indeed. Our best information suggests it was the Malfoys, and judging by the evidence left behind, they are no longer alone."
Harry felt his body tense at the mention of the Malfoys. He had not consciously thought about Lucius and Draco for some time.
Kingsley continued. "Minerva has informed me of your wish to testify against Narcissa. I would like to give you the opportunity to reconsider in light of what you have just learnt. Lucius has become desperate and reckless enough to kill muggles without cause. He may come after you if he learns that you have testified against his wife."
Harry was baffled. "But Lucius left his wife behind, Kingsley, why would he care if I testified against her or not?"
Kingsley understood Harry's confusion. "Harry, I don't believe Lucius Malfoy is in his right mind anymore. He may view any attack against the Malfoy name, even one against the wife he abandoned, as a personal attack and seek revenge for it."
Harry chuckled. "I think Lucius has more than enough reasons to come after me, Kingsley. I will go ahead with my decision to testify."
Kingsley nodded. "Very well. Now, onto the matter of the threat made against the two of you by the charming and delightful Miss Parkinson."
Harry and Ginny smiled at each other as Kingsley's voice dripped with sarcasm.
"While no specific threat has been made, I would like you two to take extra care when you move around the castle. Make sure you don't go anywhere alone," said Kingsley.
Harry and Ginny nodded their understanding.
Kingsley continued. "I will look further into the original allegations made against Miss Parkinson following the overthrow of the previous administration of this school, and see if I can find anything that might give me the power to remove her from Hogwarts. Ginny, we may need to review your statements in relation to Miss Parkinson as well, okay. Until then, look after each other."
"Yes, Kingsley," said Harry and Ginny in unison.
Harry looked at Ginny, wondering why she had never told him she had made an official statement regarding Pansy Parkinson. He decided he would let Ginny talk about it later if she wished, but he wasn't going to demand an explanation. He understood wanting to keep something to yourself.
"Excellent," said Kingsley, smiling now. "Have you got everything ready for the Halloween Ball next Sunday?"
"Ah, not quite," said Harry, noticing the mischievous look on both Kingsley and Minerva's faces.
"Well, I suggest you stop wasting time sitting here and get to it, Harry. The evening will be remembered for how the first dance was performed, so best to make a good impression."
Harry was looking very carefully at Kingsley and Minerva. They were very insistent that he and Ginny be presentable for the Ball, and Harry was sure they were up to something, but he couldn't figure out what it was yet.
*
The next day, Harry and Ginny took the opportunity to go to Diagon Alley with Ron and Hermione to meet Arthur and Molly for lunch, before trying to find suitable robes for the Halloween Ball. Despite the fact they had already bought dress robes for this year, Harry thought they should really try and do something grander if they were going to be leading the first dance.
"So, dears, Minerva tells me you have all been very busy at school lately," said Molly, as they all sat at a table in the Leaky Cauldron having a lunch.
Ron was unable to answer due to a mouth full of sandwich. Ginny nodded at her parents.
"I've only got two subjects now, but I'm also teaching Flying Lessons to Harry's muggle born class, and my Prefect work is starting to pick up as we get further into the year. And of course, Gawain Robards has started training us for the Auror program," said Ginny, and Harry could hear the excitement in her voice.
Molly regarded her daughter with a concerned look. She had hoped Ginny would follow in her footsteps and choose a career as a Healer. Instead, she would be out there battling the dark arts with Harry and Ron, and it made her nervous. Most of the friends she had who had been Aurors were now dead, and now three of her children would be engaging in the perilous job.
Harry thought about the Auror training. Following Harry's initial test with Gawain, they had begun to hold a few lessons each week for the Dumbledore's Army members who were going to continue on to the Auror program next year. As all of Dumbledore's Army had already passed Defence Against the Dark Arts, the Auror lessons were being held in their place.
Harry and Gawain had been concentrating on duelling to begin with, as Gawain had wanted to see if others could apparate in the middle of a duel like Harry had done. So far, they had achieved limited success, as most of the students still had to spin before they apparated, leaving themselves vulnerable for a second. However, they were getting faster at it, and Harry was confident at least some of them would soon be able to apparate without the need to spin first.
"What about you, Hermione? Minerva tells me you are also teaching Harry's class," said Molly.
Hermione grinned at Molly. "I'm teaching History of Magic."
Harry laughed as he listened to Hermione. She was the only person he knew who was excited by the history of magic, but he had to admit, his little students did seem to enjoy her lessons.
"What fun," said Molly, with a bemused expression on her face.
"Oh, it is," said Hermione. "I started by teaching them nursery rhymes, and then I changed the words to match various historical facts. The children picked it up so quickly."
Molly was intrigued as she continued to question Hermione about her teaching method, while Harry now understood why his students liked Hermione's lessons. They were sitting around singing for an hour twice a week.
As lunch continued on, Harry noticed they were starting to be watched by a large number of people. He wasn't surprised, as this was a gathering of some of the most famous witches and wizards in the country. He just hoped the wizarding community would get used to seeing him in public soon, because he couldn't hide away forever.
Harry was delighted, and Molly beamed, as Arthur told them about his promotion at work. His old department had been disbanded, with most of the witches and wizards who worked for Arthur being transferred to the Magical Law Enforcement Department to help make up the numbers. Arthur had been promoted to be the Assistant Head of the Magical Law Enforcement Department. While he had been the Head of his previous department, his new role of Assistant Head actually came with far more responsibilities and staff to look after.
Following lunch, the whole group made a visit to Gringotts, and the Burrow Family vault. Ron was left a gibbering mess as the vault door had opened to reveal the immense amount of gold and treasures within. Beside him, Hermione had managed to retain the use of her limbs, but was unable to speak for several minutes.
Harry and Ginny poked around the treasure, looking for some jewellery for Ginny to wear to the Ball. A number of beautiful silver pieces were found, following which Hermione and Ginny had made their way out into the muggle world to purchase a dress for Ginny which would match the jewellery she was now wearing, while Harry and Ron were fitted for new dress robes.
Once Hermione and Ginny had rejoined Ron and Harry at Madame Malkin's, Hermione had tried on a few dresses until Ron had told her that while the dresses she was trying on certainly highlighted her beauty, the one she had already had fitted before the school year was prettier than anything she was trying on. Harry and Ginny had shared a look between themselves, wondering where Ron had acquired his sudden gift for charm and tact.
Ginny, meanwhile, was carrying a box which Harry assumed contained a new dress. His requests to see the dress were dismissed, as Ginny would only concede that the dress was white and Harry should make he sure he wore something to match.
As they group stepped back out into Diagon Alley from Madame Malkin's, they suddenly came face to face with a number of reporters. Harry scanned the crowd and was relieved to see Rita Skeeter was not among them. After standing for photos for a few minutes, and answering only a couple of questions, they had made their way back to the Leaky Cauldron and flooed to the Burrow for a home cooked meal.
*
Arthur Weasley looked at his surrogate son carefully. Around him sat all manner of muggle items he had taken apart and rebuilt over the years, yet he was still no closer to understanding how they worked.
Harry surveyed the large shed and its dusty contents as he waited for Arthur to begin. He was not sure why Arthur had wanted to talk to him privately, but he knew the man wouldn't have asked without a reason.
Arthur took a deep breath. "Kingsley tells me you are going to testify against Narcissa Malfoy."
"Yes, I am," said Harry warily.
"I understand why you want to do this, Harry, but I want you to understand just what it is you're letting yourself in for."
Harry stared intently at Arthur. When Arthur had mentioned testifying, he thought he would try and talk him out of it. Instead, Arthur was doing something else.
"What do you mean, Arthur?"
"You must be prepared for the people representing Narcissa Malfoy. Their job will be to make her look like a victim, and they will go to any lengths to do so. They may also use this opportunity to question you about your actions during the war, and you will not be in a position to lie about any of it. If you do, Narcissa will have all the leverage she needs to get the case against her withdrawn. Do you understand?" asked Arthur.
Harry's mind raced. He hadn't considered this at all. He thought he would be able to go in and say his piece, and then leave. Now he learned that he could be questioned about anything and everything Narcissa thought might help her case. A troubling thought occurred to Harry.
"What about the Horcruxes? Would I have to reveal anything about them?" asked Harry, suddenly very nervous at the prospect of testifying before the Wizengamot.
"Yes, Harry," replied Arthur. "If they ask, you will have only two choices. You can tell the truth and reveal to the magical community what you were doing for the last year, or you can lie, setting free the woman who is partly responsible for the suffering and misery endured by countless witches and wizards."
Harry was stunned. The implications were enormous.
"Arthur, why didn't Kingsley and Minerva mention this to me?"
"To be honest, I don't believe they actually thought you would testify. They also believe that anyone who had any involvement with the Horcruxes, such as the Malfoy family, would be sealing their own fate if they ever acknowledged their involvement. Those objects are considered so dark that it would mean a very long sentence in Azkaban if it was revealed that someone had, for instance, sent a Horcrux to Hogwarts in the hands of a young girl in the hopes muggle born children would be killed. Even just being a member of that family would be harmful to your chances at trial."
Harry grimaced. "I don't want to drag Ginny into this."
Arthur gave Harry a sympathetic look. "I know, Harry."
Harry nodded. "What happens if I don't testify?"
Arthur shrugged his shoulders. "Narcissa will be tried on the evidence available, and she will almost certainly face time in Azkaban; but she will also defend her actions and claim that she saved your life in the forest on the night of the battle. From what you've told me, that is actually true, although not for the reasons she will claim at trial, and if you don't contradict her it will go a long way towards her plea for mercy."
Harry shuddered at the thought. A Voldemort supporter using him to attain mercy for themselves made him feel sick to the stomach.
"I'm going to need to think about this, Arthur. I didn't realise how complicated it could get."
Arthur stood and put his hand on Harry's shoulder. "I don't envy your position, son, but we will support whatever you decide to do. I'm always here if you need to talk about anything."
*
The next week passed by in a flurry of activity. As no further information was discovered regarding Pansy Parkinson and her plans, Harry and Ginny had put the worry to one side so they could concentrate on school, teaching, the Halloween Ball, and each other.
As their schedules began to run out of space, Harry and Ginny found they were spending less and less time alone together. They had both started to yearn for their peaceful summer at the Burrow once more.
Ron and Hermione were also feeling stretched, as they tried to make time for each other in between lessons, Auror training, teaching, and their duties as Head Boy and Girl.
As the four friends sat down to have dinner on the eve of the Halloween Ball, they had all agreed to make more time for each other, and not to take on any more commitments this year.
After dinner, Harry and Ginny had curled up together on the sofa in their room, talking about what they thought Kingsley and Minerva were up to, and discussing whether or not Harry should testify. After a long talk involving many tears, Harry made his decision. He would not let Narcissa use his name in an attempt to avoid justice.
*
Draco looked at the picture on the front page of the Daily Prophet again. Four of the people he had most despised since his first year at Hogwarts were standing in Diagon Alley, all looking put out by the attention they were receiving. Draco read the article which described the trip Harry and his friends had taken to Diagon Alley again. He was surprised to find he didn't care. Previously he would have been angry to see Harry in the paper, now it seemed like so much wasted effort.
His father made it a point of showing any pictures of Harry and the others to him. He supposed his father thought it would remind him of why they needed to take their revenge; but instead, Draco didn't feel jealousy or anger, just a quiet yearning to be able to enjoy a similar life. He knew it was impossible now, but he had started to harbour a very different dream to his fathers.
Draco made a show of balling up the paper and throwing it at the wall, as he had done with the issue which had featured a photo of Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley kissing, while Harry and his girlfriend stood behind them and grinned.
The other members of the Malfoy's ragtag group had nodded and grunted in appreciation at his show of disgust. Draco glared at them and wondered if any of them were having the same doubts as he was. A peaceful life without power was certainly preferable to this.
YOU ARE READING
Harry Potter and the Wrath of the Fallen
FanfictionThis story belongs to sjg74, not me. I give all credit to him, I just wanted to read his story through Wattpad. Harry Potter and the Wrath of the Fallen A Novel by J. G. Simon Word Count: 274,045 Rating: Mature Warnings: Mild Language, Strong Violen...
