Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/10058765.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Underage, Graphic_Depictions_Of_Violence
  Category:
      M/M
  Fandom:
      Harry_Potter_-_J._K._Rowling
  Relationship:
      Draco_Malfoy/Harry_Potter
  Character:
      Harry_Potter, Draco_Malfoy
  Additional Tags:
      Explicit_Language, Out_of_Character, Self-Harm, Sexual_Content, Action/
      Adventure, Alternate_Universe, Romance
  Collections:
      HPFandom
  Stats:
      Published: 2006-12-11 Completed: 2006-12-18 Chapters: 2/2 Words: 1947
****** Changes ******
by icephoenix [archived by HPFandom_archivist]
Summary
     Harry, following the end of his sixth year, goes through some major
     changes, including everything from his appearance, to his name, to
     his sexualtity.
Notes
     Note from SeparatriX, the archivist: this story was originally
     archived at HP_Fandom, which was closed for health and financial
     reasons. To preserve the archive, I began manually importing its
     works to the AO3 as an Open Doors-approved project in August 2016. I
     e-mailed all creators about the move and posted announcements, but
     may not have reached everyone. If you are (or know) this creator,
     please contact me using the e-mail address on HP_Fandom_collection
     profile.
***** Prologue *****
Disclaimer: The characters, settings and anything else you recognize from this
fanfiction all belong to JKR - nothing is mine.
Prologue – Freedom
11:56… 11:57… 11:58… 11:59…
12:00.
Finally – oh thank God, it was finally here. It was his seventeenth birthday,
and, for the first time, Harry was ecstatic to be turning another year older.
Being seventeen meant that he was a legal adult in the wizarding world, that he
could get his Apparating license, that he could do magic outside of school –
that he was free.
Seventeen meant that the protection of his mother’s blood upon him while at the
Dursley’s no longer applied, and that meant that he could leave and never come
back.
Harry had been anticipating this moment since Dumbledore told him why he had to
return to the Dursley’s each summer back in fifth year. About two weeks ago
Harry began packing up all of his belongings, wanting to be ready to leave at
the earliest moment; he didn’t want to waste any time packing – which was
pointless, really, as he spent a total of an hour gathering everything.
But now it was here, and he could leave. Harry jumped up from the sheet less
mattress he had been lying on, grabbed his wand and his alarm clock, the only
items he hadn’t put into his trunk, and opened his bedroom door. After taking a
quick peek down the hall to make sure that no one else was awake, Harry shrunk
his trunk and shoved it into his pocket.
It was strange, really, knowing that on owl from the Ministry6 attempting to
expel him again would not be coming – that he could do anything he wanted, save
the Unforgivables, and no one could stop him.
Well, okay, if he was honest he knew that the Ministry could stop him from
doing another number of things as well, but that wasn’t the point.
The point was that Harry was free to be his own person now; and no one would
stop him.
***A/N***
I am in need of a Beta Reader - if you are interested, please let me know -
thanks!
The first chapter will be posted shortly - it is written, it just need to be
typed. I promise that it will be much longer than this one was ;)
***** Chapter One *****
A/N: Much love to Kim, my amazing BETA! :D
Chapter One – Leaving
As Harry opened the front door, a silencing spell erected so as not to wake the
Dursleys, he cast one last look around. While he had had nothing but miserable
experiences from this place, it was where he grew up, and it would always be a
part of him – whether that was a good thing or not.
His gaze swept over the mantelpiece in the living room, full of pictures of
Dudley holding boxing trophies, giving his mum a kiss on the cheek and even a
few of him just standing there, smiling for the camera (if you could call that
grimace a smile). He then saw the kitchen, where he had spent a good portion of
his time. While Vernon and Dudley spent at least three hours a day in the
kitchen, eating and watching game shows on the television, Harry had spent at
least that amount of time cleaning and cooking. He had learned how to use the
stove at age seven, how to use the oven at nine, and by the time he was twelve,
he could cook a three-course meal. More often than not, Petunia would feel too
“exhausted” to cook breakfast, lunch and/or dinner, and that job would fall
onto his shoulders.
Harry pulled his gaze away from the kitchen, only to land on the stairs he had
recently come down. Upstairs, asleep, were the people he had been living with
for the past sixteen years – the people who did their best to make sure he knew
he was not wanted there. Petunia, his mother’s sister, who hated him for being
a “freak”, and for connecting her, in any way, with the wizarding world.
Vernon, who had slapped him around for talking about a dream with a flying
motorcycle in it when he was ten, who made sure he went without food for at
least three days each week during the summer, and who, just the other day, held
both of Harry’s hands down on the top of the stove for letting a piece of bacon
burn; if it hadn’t been for his magic surging up to heal him afterwards, he
still wouldn’t be able to move his fingers. And then there was Dudley – his
whale-of-a-cousin. The one who loved “Harry-Hunting” growing up, who looked
like the pig he was despite the tail being removed years ago. Dudley had caused
so much pain to Harry, he didn’t even know where to begin, and he didn’t really
feel like spending hours reliving it all – so he moved his gaze one last time –
– Only to land on the cupboard under the stairs. The tiny space he had called
his own until the letter from Hogwarts had arrived; the spider-infested space
where he would pretend to be anywhere but there. That “room” was the reason he
was now claustrophobic, why he hated rooms with no windows, and why, according
to Madame Pomphrey, he was so small for his age.
Thankfully, Harry would never have to see any of this ever again – in fact, he
could march upstairs right then to give the Dursleys a piece of his mind, and
if he just happened to curse them for a bit, then so much the better.
But Harry couldn't do that; no matter how much satisfaction he would derive
from doing that, he knew that afterwards he’d feel guilty and would return to
apologize – and that wasn’t going to happen. The last thing Harry wanted to do
was to return to this place.
So, Harry stepped out of the front door and onto the front walkway, shutting
the door behind him. He quickly walked across the front lawn and, when he
reached the street, stuck out his wand in his right hand.
*BANG* The sound echoed, liked a bullet leaving a gun, signaling the arrival of
the Knight Bus.
A young woman with short, cropped, brown hair, soft blue eyes, and an eyebrow
ring stepped off the bus, wearing a conductor’s uniform.
“Good evening. My name is Emily Henderson, and I will be your host for this
ride. Welcome to the Knight Bus – transportation for the stranded witch or
wizard.” The woman appeared overly chirpy for 12:10 in the morning, Harry
thought, before realizing that he had been expecting Stan Shunpike to be there.
But no, he recalled, Stan was still being kept at the Ministry for
“questioning” about his “Death Eater escapades”, according to the Daily
Prophet, at least.
“Evening,” Harry replied. “I’d like to get to the Leaky Cauldron, please.”
“Righty-o; that’ll be 11 sickles please.” Emily said, moving over to allow
Harry on board. She then pointed to the back and told Harry to choose a seat,
and that they would stop at the Leaky Cauldron once they took Madame McKingsy
to Kendall Alley, in Tutshill.
Harry nodded, fishing the coins out of his pocket to pay for the trip. Once
Emily had received the required amount, she walked to the front, shut the door,
and told Ernie “hit-it” – and they were on their way.
*****
After 25 minutes of torture for his stomach – he really hated jerky, fast-
moving modes of transportation - Harry was dropped off at the entrance to the
Leaky Cauldron. He gladly jumped off the steps, and watched the bus shoot off,
narrowly missing a muggle bookstore which moved out of its way.
Harry pushed open the door to the pub, not surprised to see patrons still
there; it was only a quarter to one on a Friday night / Saturday morning, and
people would still be out and having a fun time. Harry quickly glanced around,
hoping not to see anyone he recognized, and hoping for once that no one would
recognize him.
He walked as quickly as possible to the back door, breathing in a sigh of
relief when he made it to the entrance to Diagon Alley without being stopped.
Tapping on the bricks with his wand, Harry watched the gateway form, somewhat
surprised to see the alley almost as busy at night as during the day. While he
had been expecting people in the Leaky Cauldron, he had thought that Diagon
Alley would be fairly empty – who shopped so late at night?
It was as he was on his way to Gringotts that Harry’s question was answered:
Vampires. There were vampires everywhere. While not every person there was one,
Harry saw more pointy teeth than he cared to admit.
Although the thought had never crossed his mind about when vampires shopped
before, he supposed it was logical that stores remained opened late at night.
It must be good for business as well, he assumed.
At that point, Harry had reached his destination: Gringotts Wizard Bank.
Pushing open the wide marble doors, he entered.
Walking up to the nearest available goblin, who happened to be named
Mobleganin, Harry pulled out his key. “I need to get some money from my vault
and exchange it for muggle money, please.”
Mobleganin picked up Harry’s key and examined it from every angle before
looking at Harry. When he did look at him, Harry felt as if he was being X-
Rayed. Seemingly deciding that Harry was the one to whom the key belonged, the
goblin motioned for Harry to follow him.
Following another fast-paced and jerky ride, Harry arrived at his vault. Once
Mobleganin unlocked it for him, Harry stuffed as many coins as he could into a
money pouch, before re-entering the God-forsaken device that carried him down
there.
A few minutes later, Harry was once again standing in front of Mobleganin’s
desk, waiting for his money to be exchanged for muggle currency.
“Cash or credit?” the goblin asked, peering at Harry.
“What?” Harry asked, almost laughing at the absurdity of a magical creature
asking such a muggle-sounding question.
“Would you like,” Mobleganin sighed, “your money exchanged into muggle cash, or
into a credit card?”
“Oh…” Harry replied, not sure how to answer. Never having been allowed to use a
credit card before, however, he thought it might be fun. “A credit card,
please.”
Mobleganin waved his fingers over Harry’s money, and Harry was fascinated to
see that giant pile shrink into a tiny piece of plastic. When the card was
handed to Harry, he looked at it and saw the Gringotts name and emblem on the
front, and a moving picture of himself, next to his name and vault number, on
the back.
“Won’t the muggles get suspicious if they see this?” Harry asked, genuinely
confused. He had heard of cards such as Visa and MasterCard, but never
‘WizCard,’ with the slogan “For all your magical needs.”
Again Mobleganin sighed, as if he went through this many times a day. “No, Mr.
Potter,” he replied. “If looked at by a muggle, it appears to become a type of
credit card commonly accepted in the muggle world.”
“Right,” Harry said, pocketing his card. “Thank you.”
“Have a pleasant rest of the evening to you, Mr. Potter,” the goblin replied.
“To you as well,” Harry nodded, before exiting the bank.
Mindful of the streets full of vampires, Harry quickly but carefully made his
way back to the Leaky Cauldron, and then back out of the pub. Once in muggle
London, Harry smiled. For once in his life, his plan seemed to be working.
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her father's studio. She could hear
voices, what was not strange per se, especially after her father started
running for minister of magic. But something was different this time. The
voices sounded scared, exasperated. Desperate even. "You don't understand
Jacques" one of the voices said in English " I cursed him! Dammit, how could I
destroy his life even more! He already suffered enough!" The man sounded
desperate, almost crying.
"No Remus" another english voice, this one sounding tired, "unless I am as
guilty as you! We both know who to blame here, who created this entire
situation…"
"Friends..." She headed her father's voice now "this conversation is no longer
private, Fleur darling, you may come in"
With a small jump, she opened the door. Fleur saw two very strange men in the
room with her father. They both look dirty and tired, almost scary, looking in
awe at her. Fleur was used to men looking at her, she was used to ignoring the
disgusting looks some throw, almost undressing her with their eyes. Her mother
taught her since she was very young not only how to live with and how to
control her allure, but also many ways to use it on her favour. But the looks
now direct at her were of a different kind. There was no lust on those strange
men eyes, but a mixture of surprise and admiration.
"Mon dieu…" the slin tattooed man, who had the hair and beard black as the
night said in a French with a heavy English accent. "You… you grow up so much…
you have became a beautiful young woman, just like your mother." He finished
looking at Jacques with a smile.
"I don't know if you will remember us Fleur..." The other ragged man, with a
big scar on his face said in a much better French, but with a more tired,
defeated voice. "The last time we meet, you were no older than three or four.
My name is Remus Lupin, and this speechless idiot here is Sirius Black." That
name sounded familiar, but she couldn't say from where.
"Oui." Her father said looking with curiosity at her. "The last time was on
James and Lily's Christmas party I believe… almost fourteen years ago." Yes,
there was something familiar, but Fleur couldn't put a finger on it.
Always polite, Fleur answered in an educated tone. "Can't say I remember
monsieurs, but is always a pleasure to meet my father's friends, specifically
ones who go back so long. But papa, you asked for me, no…" She was curious, her
father usually kept her out of his political meetings, though this men may be
too weird for that.
Jacques smiled at his daughter's assertiveness, in that manner she was like
him, just like she was beautiful and smart as her mother. "Yeas Fleur, I have
information concerning the actives of your school this year, dear." She looked
at him with curiosity. "I know for a fact that you, Gabby and some of your
colleagues will be travelling to Britain in a couple months." Now she looked
surprised. "But I will not lie, the news coming from there are not the most
reassuring ones. Not only we are seeing a rise of an extremely retrograde
pureblood movement." All three men smiled in approval at the disgust on her
face. "But there is also even scarier rumours of something moving underground…"
"I can take care of myself papa!" She interrupted with a prideful look that
made Jacques smile at her. "You know that! Please do not worry papa. Also, I
pity the fool who even looks the wrong way to madam Maxine" Fleur finished with
a smirk.
"Oui, I will not even try to dissuade you dear, it would do me no good. I may
say I am even proud of that. No, what I want is to ask to you to do something
for me… we need you to do something for us…" Fleur looked curiously to her
father and his weird friends, and started to feel excited. "Now… what I am
about to ask you is a secret, and, may i say, borderline illegal, and it can
generate some international… discomfort… but I would not ask if I didn't trust
you, and if was not from extreme importance to protect the students from
Hogwarts and possibly all other schools as well. Are you ok with it?" Fleur
didn't even bother to hide her smile. And for the next hour she listened to her
father's request.
An hour later, excited with her mission, and proud of the trust her father had
put on her, Fleur closed the studio's doors. Not even a second to late she
listened to the men starting talking again. "Do you think she remembers
Jacques?" The man called Remus asked, possible unaware of the veela's sensitive
sense of hearing.
"I don't know, it was a long time ago, she was too small, we don't even know if
it really means something and she had suffered enough already… but I doubt a
connection like that could be totally lost. But she is her own person now."
Fleur didn't know what they were talking about, but feel it was important, and
was sure it was about her.
That night Fleur had a really strange and vivid dream. She was naked, and there
was an enormous wolf with her. The beast walked to her, and instead of being
afraid, she felt touched by his eyes. The best had the most profound emerald
green eyes she has ever seen….
***** Chapter 02 *****
Chapter Notes
     Thanks to Master42 for helping me as a Beta
     Arriving at the school!
Chapter 02
 
The very last night of the cycle was always the worst. Harry could feel his
body at the brink of collapse. Every bone on his body hurt. His hypersensitive
senses made his head feel like it would explode.
But the worse was the thirst. His mouth and throat were so dry that he could
feel the cracks on his lips. Even opening his mouth to breathe was hard.
He was in the dark, inside the little shack at the backyard. The first rays of
sunlight coming through the cracks of the door. He listened, unable to move
just yet, as the locker was unlocked, and the door opened. He smelled, a smell
he had known all too well even before his enhanced senses take place. The smell
of excitement coming from the enormous man in front of him. It was nauseating,
Harry felt even weaker.
“Well, well, look at you” Vernon Dudley said, Harry could almost feel his smile
through the words “I didn't think you could become an even bigger aberration
that you already were… but look at you” his breath speed up, as Harry listened
to him unlocking his belt buckle “you know, the other freaks, your friends,
paid good money to get my permission to build this monstrosity here” he was
rolling his belt on his hand now, breathing even faster “but no one told me
about the noise… no sir… I couldn't get a minute of sleep this night, with all
your crying and howling” now he was panting. Harry was sure the man had an
erection “And poor Petunia, so scared… that woman gave you everything… I think
you deserve the buckle of the belt today, to learn a little gratitude, don't
you agree?” Harry found some strength to look up, only to see a smile on his
uncle face, and the belt coming in his direction.
 
Fleur had just finished packing her things for the school year in two large
trunks. One containing her books, quills, parchments and other practical
materials, like the potions kit and her broom. In the second, her robes, both
for day to day classes and the more formal ones, for special occasions, an
assortment of casual mundane clothes (she always loved muggle fashion,
specifically concerning lingerie) and for this year, a bigger number of cold
weather garments, as England were famous for its winters. Completing the space,
she was also taking some things she was sure Gabrielle would forget to take
with her, as always.
She closed her trunk with a smile, Fleur once again though about the wolf. The
dream kept coming every night now, maybe it has some meaning, she was lost in
thought when she heard a knock on the door. Apoline came in, looking as
stunning as always with her high couture clothes.
“Everything packed my little dove?” She asked “Yes mama” answered Fleur,
smiling at the nickname her mother used. “Say Fleur” her mother continued “I
try to stay out of it, but let me ask, anyone in particular you are looking to
see again this year?” Taking by surprise, Fleur blushed for a second, but
answered with resolution “Only Regine mama, and as a friend. You know I tried,
but was to no good. The boys can't see past the damn allure, and most girls
can't overcome their jealousy. And the ideas people have about us are simply
disgusting. So no, I had fun for a while, but not anymore” to her surprise,
Apoline just smiled. “I know how hard it is. It took me a long time to find you
father”
“Ah, now we are getting to the point” Fleur tough to herself.
“I assume you already talked to your father” Fleur nodded and her mother took a
deep breath “then, here goes” she extended her hand, and in it was a photograph
“It is not without pain I give this to you, but is for the best” Fleur didn't
understand, but grabbed the picture and looked at it.
There was, smiling and waving at the camera her mother and father, to the left
she could see the man she met early this month, Remus Lupin, to they're right
there was another young couple, Fleur tough the green eyes of the redheaded
woman looked familiar, and more to the right the man she now knows as Sirius
Black. But what really caught her was the kids. On the ground, side by side,
smiling like she didn't even know she could. She recognized herself, and a
little boy, no much more than a year old, with green eyes and messing hair. She
looked into them, hypnotized for some seconds.
“Why?” she asked.
“My dear… let me tell you about when your father and I were young…”
 
“Here, the books you asked” Daphne Greengrass said, giving Hermione Granger a
stack of 3 books. “I still don't understand what you want with it. I thought
you found the magical world to be too backwards”. “Actually they are for Harry”
Hermione said putting the books aside. “He told me about a plan of his on the
end of the last term”
As weird as it looks, both girls had become friends on the previous year, after
the broom incident, that had divided the Gryffindor golden trio. But, after
this summer, said trio may be no more…
Hermione looked around nervously, looking for Harry, she hadn’t seen her friend
for almost three months now, three lunar cycles, she didn't even know what to
expect.
She saw Hedwig’s first, inside her cage. Then she saw the mass of black hair
and couldn't contain herself. She ran in his direction and dove into his arms,
tears rolling down her face. She could feel his surprise and hiss, like
something hurt on his back, but he embrace her back and didn't let it go. “Oh
Harry” she started, sobbing, “I am so sorry, I tried to call several times,
your aunt would not pass you the phone!!! It’s not right to leave you like
that!!” She left his arms, a little blushed, and looked at him.
He was a mess. He looked thin, with big black bags under his eyes, and he was
pale… but his smile was the most sincere and warm thing she saw in months “how
can you be a mess like that and still beautiful” she caught herself thinking
and blushed even harder.
“Please, don't look at me like that Mione” Harry said looking at her, she bit
her lower lip, sending shivers through his body, “you know I had some bad
nights… I will make up to it in the train. Had you seen Ron?” She looked at him
with a weird expression, and he took the clue. “Never mind, let's find a
cabinet on the train”.
They entered the express and moved to their favorite cabinet on the back, the
Weasleys were late and Hermione was thankful for that. Neville joined then a
couple minutes later, and they started doing small talk about the summer and
the new school year. Hermione felt Harry's head leaning against her shoulder
and realized he was asleep, a warm fuzz ran through her body, and before she
realized, her hand were running through his hair. That was the moment Rob
showed up, his face becomes almost the same color of his hair, and he turned
away. Ginny entered the cabinet and looked at them. “He doesn't look well…” she
said in a low voice.
 
Harry woke up, or rather was awaken next to the arrival. “Believe it or not, I
am actually feeling better” he said to the other occupants of the cabinet,
while putting his robes, and some color had actually came back to his face.
“Where is Ron?” Nobody seems to know.
They exited the train and got to the carriages, Harry could see Ron some feet
way, with Seamus and Dean. He was about to ask Hermione with was happening when
they heard a loud voice. “Arry my lad” they could see Hagrid approaching. “So
good to see you” he gave the boy a big hug, sending Harry to a world of pain
for some seconds, only Hermione seem to notice. He released the teen and
continued “but I am getting carried away, I'm here to pass a message from the
headmaster. He want you to meet him at his office to discuss you new… eeeer…
condition” Neville and Ginny looked at him, worried, and he nodded his head as
if saying “later”.
“Also” Hagrid carried on “we will have a biiiiiig surprise for you all this
year!”
As they entered the carriage, Neville asked “What you guys think is that
surprise?” “I don't know” Harry said “I just hope is not something that tries
to kill me” he said with a grim. “Prat” Hermione said slapping him on the
shoulder.
The great Hall was all laughs and greetings, friends meeting each other.
Hogwarts was a prison alright, but at least a good one, Harry though. He
complimented his colleagues both from Gryffindor and from other houses, after a
long and solitaire summer he had decided this year he would try to make a
change. To hell with house rivalries, he remembered the Heir fiasco all too
well. It was an uphill battle, but one needed for his plans.
He sat at his usual place at the table, Hermione sat at his right side, and he
felt really good when their legs touch, she smiled at him. Ron decided to sit
at the other side with Seamus and Dean, leaving his left side empty and Harry
sighed, another uphill battle ahead. Angelina and Katie were passing, giggling
at his back when the Katie suddenly stopped. Angelina looked at her, while a
big grin appeared on her friend’s face.
“Hello Harry” Katie said touching his shoulder and sitting at the empty space
on his left, to his big surprise. They had been friends and played quidditch
together, but that was new. As Angelina sat on the other side of the table,
looking somewhat amused by the shy boy, Katie took what to Harry seemed like a
really deep breath and continued. “I am betting you had a really, really
interesting summer” “What do you mean Katie?” He asked confused, but secretly
enjoying the attention, the brunette was beautiful, and there was something in
her eyes. “I don't know Harry, you… look different…” Katie looked at a confused
Angelina and a somewhat bothered Hermione. “So, this year championship…” she
changed the subject and let the conversation flow.
After the sorting, Harry took a good look at the professor’s table. Up on his
feet, in a corner he saw the weird man full of scars, holding a strange looking
walking stick, like an old worn out soldier. But what really caught his
attention was the magic eye rolling on his socket. The eye stopped at Harry,
looking directly at him, and the man took a sip from a small bottle.
 
Hermione was trying to make sense of what was happening in front of her. She
knew Katie always had a crush on Harry, she heard the older girl talking to
Angelina once or twice, but the same was true to many other girls. What made
her act like that, with so much courage was the mystery, and although she would
not admit to herself, Hermione was a little envious of that. Katie was
practically leaning on Harry's shoulder, and Hermione was pretty sure, by the
way he was tense, that the girl's hand was on his knee or thigh. But it was
over when Harry and Katie, as well as Angelina and many others on the great
Hall said almost in unison “WHAT!!!”
“Yes” the headmaster master continued “there will be no quidditch championship
this year, as Hogwarts has been chosen to host the Triwizard tourney” he go on
to explain about the tournament, as most of the things wizards do, most of it
sounded unnecessary convoluted and dangerous to Hermione, but the prospect of
getting to know students from other magical schools around Europe was
fascinating.
After the initial shock, Katie came back to talk really close to Harry, he was
cute all clumsy and blushing this way, she thought. No, she was the only one
that knew what happened and that he needed help. Library first thing tomorrow!
 
Fleur stood at the desk after organizing her things at her dorm in Beauxbatons.
It was a cozy double bedroom, with mirror sides, each one consisting in a four
post bed with a trunk at its foot, a big closet and a writing desk. Fleur had
the side with the window and her best friend Regine has the door's side. On the
opposite side there was also a small door that leads to the common upper year
girls’ bathroom.
“I didn't know your family was friends with “The Boy Who Lived”” Regine said
after entering the room and looking over Fleur's shoulder. “What do you mean?”
“Here, those are your mom and dad right? Those two here are James and Lily
Potter, and I assume those beautiful kids are you and Harry Potter!” Fleur
looked at the picture once again, she couldn't remember. Regine had family in
England and past some time with them almost every year, so the blonde decided
to ask. “Do you know how he is like?”
“That depends if you believe the English media” she said after a while,
studying Fleur's face “They say he is a mentally unstable boy, with delusions
of grandeur and attention seeking issues…” she could see by the looks on her
friend's face that this was close to home for her, and she didn't buy it. “My
cousin plays quidditch with him…” she finally said. “Angelina always talks
about him with some kind of awe, she said that almost nothing the tabloids had
written about him is true, that he is a passionate and courageous person, an
incredible seeker, and if half of the things she thinks happened really
happened to him then he is more incredible than people can even imagine. She
says he even killed a basilisk when he was twelve or thirteen” “That is a
little hard to imagine, non?” Fleur said with a smile. “True, but as I see,
this boy had gone through hell and back, and for things he didn't even choose,
I mean, if you believe my cousin and her friends” she finished laying in her
bed. “It is incredible that your father didn't used this on his campaign,
people would kill for this kind of connection with the Potters” “Friendship and
respect were always more important to him” Fleur said a little annoyed “I know,
that is the reason he will win” Regine finished.
Fleur though for some time, looking at the picture, there was something there,
she wanted that smile back… then she got a piece of parchment, a quill and
started writing.
 
Albus Dumbledore watched as the boy entering his office with attention, looking
for signs of the curse.
“Good night Harry, would like a lemon drop?” “No, thank you headmaster”
“please, have a sit Harry”. The headmaster looked at him over his glasses, with
a grandpa expression on his face. “First of all, let me apologize for the
somewhat clumsy solution we could arrange for your summer, we had to do it in
such a short notice, also I understand that you got upset about losing the
quidditch world cup, bit been the smart boy you are, I believe you understand
the reasons” he said in a rather patronizing tone that he could see annoyed
Harry. “I do understand, professor…”
“Good, Harry, Remus has studied at Hogwarts for seven years, and we never had
any dangerous incident, and I wish to keep this record. All the relevant
professors had already been informed of your… condition…” Harry sighed “I am
glad to inform you that at the school, you will at least be allowed to run free
during the cycle, all the school wards had been updated, you will not be able
to enter any building during those nights, so that the other students will be
safe. Also Hagrid will be responsible for monitoring you during and after your…
changes… and Severus will provide you with wolfsbane every first night.” Harry
was astonished with that much information. “Well, any doubt we can discuss
later, people are perfectly capable of living with this curse Harry and you
will be too.”
Harry directed himself to the door, and turned to Dumbledore before opening it.
“Professors, what about Sirius…”
“It is been taking care, my boy”
Harry exited the office and the headmaster leaned on his chair, the boy looked
tired and defeated, he may even lost some weight during the summer, in other
words, he looked great for him.
***** chapter 03 *****
Chapter Summary
     Letters, and some ground rules
AN: I do not own HP, or dell for that matter.
Letters and some ground rules.
Chapter 03
"That was unacceptable!" Hermione said as they exited the first defence class
"Is he really that insensitive or was he just totally wasted! Either way, what
he did to you and Neville is unacceptable!" Harry looked at Hermione and waited
for her to calm down. "He is not drunk" he said, somewhat bothered with what
had happened, but more for Neville than himself, "there was not a single drop
of alcohol on the zip he kept taking, that it is something else…"
"How did you know Harry?" He looked at her with a smile and simple touched his
own nose.
After almost a week at Hogwarts, with some good food and no nightmares for the
time being, Harry was feeling a lot better, also his appetite has attacked with
total force. "Come, Lunch is starting and I am starving." Harry waited for the
comparison with Ron, but it never came.
During lunch Harry sat down again with Hermione at his right, talking about Mad
Eye, both the class and the time he turned Malfoy into a ferret. A couple
minutes later Katie and Angelina entered the hall, and take their now usual
places, Katie on Harry's left side and Angelina across the table. Harry didn't
mind the sudden new arrangement, both girls were pleasant and smart, and even
Hermione seem to enjoy the talking, when the subject was not quidditch. Harry
also didn't admit, but he liked the way Katie touch his leg or lean on his
shoulder, and her now familiar smell of grass and strawberries became one of
his favourites, together Hermione's mint and earth.
Then an enormous own descent upon them. It was brown and black, almost double
the size of Hedwig, with big yellow and grey eyes. "Wow" Harry said as it
landed in front of him. "This one is new…" "Doesn't look like a specimen
commonly seem in England" said Hermione looking curiously.
"It is French", said Angelina. "My uncle has one that looks like that, just not
that big". The three other nodded and the owl extended her leg showing the
letter. Harry took it and gave the big bird a nice piece of meat, before she
took off.
Harry looked at the envelope, and the smell hit him like a punch. Not the owl
smell, but the one that came from the envelope, it was floral… lilies and
vanilla. The three girls looked curiously to the name written on it, "Fleur
Delacour, Beauxbatons, France". "Well" said Katie "obviously a girl, maybe an
international fan girl trying to set you up before the tournament?" She
finished with a touch of jealousy in her voice.
"Well, my experience with mail is not the best one" answered Harry "but there
is only one way to find out", and he opened the letter.
The smell came before anything, even stronger than the envelope, he sniffed
deep, that smell could be addictive he thought, but it seems only him could and
Katie could notice. He started reading.
Monsieur Harry Potter
I know it can be weird and somewhat distressing to receive a letter from a
total stranger, although I imagine with your fame you must be somehow used to
it. At this point I must stress, do not worry, I am not any kind of fangirl.
Of course, I know of your deeds, as they are famous even in France, although I
have a way safer source of information than the news outlets (ask your friend
Angelina about her cousin) so I must ask, please don't be alarmed by this
letter.
I am writing you because this summer many things happened, and more than one
concern you. For one, I get to know " Moony  and  Padfoot " and I am glad to
say they are both safe, but rather concerned about you. There is more, but I am
afraid it would be forcing my boundaries, so I decided to write and get to know
you, as we may meet and even need each other later this year as I am sure you
are aware of the  triwizard  tournament.
If you are somewhat interested, I am looking forward to your response.
Respectfully
Fleur  Delacour
Harry gave a knowing look at Hermione after the mention of Remus and Sirius.
"Angelina?"
"I do have a cousin that goes to Beauxbatons, named Regine, she has a friend
named Fleur, he roommate I think".
"Sorry ladies" Harry said getting up, "I got a letter to write".
.oOo.
Hermione and Katie walked back to the Gryffindor tower after Harry had left.
Katie was a little confused by his rush to write the letter, but Hermione
reassured her it had more to do with the contents of the same than the sender,
"but that is his secret to tell" the bush hair girl said when they arrived at
the common room. She stopped before entering and took Katie's arm.
"Katie, what are you doing?"
Katie sighed, she knew that was coming.
"Look Hermione, I REALLY like you, damn, we actually look up too you, even the
older girls, you may really be the brightest witch of our time" she said with a
sincere smile. "And I truly do believe that you and that noble git can do
amazing things for the wizardry world, especially if he overcomes his self-
esteem problem, and dam, he really doesn't know how hot he is…" Hermione bit
her lower lip, in total agreement. "We have seen you two dance around each
other for a long time, but this time something is different, and I decided, if
you are not making a move, I will!"
"But… what changed?" Asked a little shocked Hermione.
"I guess you know, damn, knowing the kind of shit you two always get into, you
probably was there!" Katie turned to the portrait "as I said, I really like
you, as a model and as a friend" she gave Hermione a knowing look over the
shoulder "I am even willing to share, with the right girl…" she smiled and
entered the room.
Hermione blushed furiously, biting her lower lip.
.oOo.
Fleur came down to the common room for breakfast, thinking about the dream. The
same dream, where she was close to the big black green-eyed wolf keep happening
every night. She noted some small differences the last few days. Now she could
touch the beast, he's raven black fur, and feel his warm on her hands, even
after she waked.
There was no houses at Beauxbatons, so the tables at the common great hall were
divided by year. Fleur got sit on the sixty-year table and eat a very light and
frugal breakfast, with some hot black coffee, she was not looking forward to
beans and bacon, or some of the other things Regine told her about english
breakfast. After eating, she was enjoying her coffee and talking with her only
friend about the day's schedule when the owls entered the room, bringing the
mail, magazines and daily news. Bertrand, the big Delacour owl had come back
the day before, with no answer, to her disappointment.
But now, a beautiful white owl had landed in front of her. Fleur was stunned,
not only by the way it looked, but also by the spark of cleverness on his eyes.
"Hello pretty boy" she said, and the owl shook its feathers angrily, "sorry,
girl? Ah, a really pretty girl, do you want some water?" The owl drunk it
happily. "Do you have something for me?" Fleur asked trying to hide her
excitement. The owl extended her leg and the magical letter appeared on the
parchment.
"So?" Regine asked, making no effort to hide her excitement.
"He answered…" Fleur proceed to open the letter.
Dear (?) Miss Delacoeur
Sorry for the late response, as you may notice through this letter, I am not
very good with this correspondence thing. I had to actually start this letter
several times. For that, I am sorry in advance.
First of all, really, really thank you for the news about  Moony  and  Padfoot
, it makes me really relieved to hear about them, and, I believe you do
understand the reasons for being discreet about them.
I am also thankful that you get your information about me trough Regine (I
asked Angelina about her, please send her my thanks) and not from the media. As
you can imagine, my relationship with them is not the best, to say the least,
since my second year at Hogwarts, when they discovered that I was nothing like
they hoped, and I didn't want to be that person. They wanted "the boy who
lived" and I was just Harry. But I digress. I understand this is hard to
relate, sorry for that.
I must say I look forward for meeting you and to talk more at length about our
mutual  acquittances  as it is hard to do it by letter, I also look forward to
knowing more of you and learn more about wizardry people around the world.
Sorry if I annoyed you in any way.
Best regards
Harry Potter
PS: this beautiful lady that delivered the letter is called  Hedwig , if you
can, please see to her to get some rest and food, she loves bacon…
Fleur was astonished, the boy looked reluctant, a little shy and really
thankful, nothing like she expected, but what does she expect? Another pompous
prat like the ones she met at the political parties at Delacour manor? He was
worried about the well-being of his owl, what that says about someone? And,
goodness, he didn't imagine how well she understands about how he felt, about
not wanting to meet people's expectations about herself.
She looked at Regine "I think is worth a response" the girl said with a smile.
"If you would wait for just a little more..." Said Fleur looking at Hedwig now,
"I can get you some bacon, and a response to your master" the owl poured in
agreement.
.oOo.
"That giant moron bloody git!" Daphne Greengrass almost screamed at the table
at the back of the library, getting some angry looks from the other occupants.
"Daphne, language!" Hermione told her "we are in a library. Also, his behaviour
is nothing more than a symptom of a way more serious problem on the wizardry
world."
"How can you be so analytical about this!" The Slytherin asked. "I never
understood how you and Harry put on with him, you guys are leagues above him,
the brat only drags you both down! He is not even funny like his brothers" she
took a deep breath coming back to her ice Queen persona. "Did you told
Potter?".
"No, Ron was his first friend, and Harry already have too much in his mind, I
don't think is a good idea."
"So you know their Friendship will probably not survive this…" She was good,
Hermione though, but didn't answer.
After a couple minutes is silence, Daphne asked. "Should I assume you are still
in touch with professor Lupin?"
"Hum… why you would say that?" The Slytherin pointed at the large collection of
books on the table, most about lycanthropy, very good indeed, Hermione though
again, just like Harry said. "Not exactly, although is related…" she answered.
That made her remember. "What time is it? I need to go to the quidditch
practice!"
"Quidditch?" Daphne said with a grim, " I thought you didn't like it."
"Hey, I watched all the Gryffindor games last year!" Hermione said, pretending
to be offended.
"Watched the games or some player in particular?" Hermione blushed and gave
Daphne a wave before leaving the library.
Hermione walked to the quidditch field, to find that the training was not yet
over, she sat at the bench and watched. A couple rolls under her, she could see
Romilda Vaine, and some other fangirls, if only they knew… then she looked up,
and there he was, on his element, making loops and free falls just for the
pleasure of doing, then he bolted, and passing through the arcs faster than any
other player and emerged with the snitch in hands. She bit her lip when she saw
Katie flying and giving him a big hug, they looked beautiful there in the air,
Hermione though sadly.
As everyone landed and direct themselves to the dressing room, Harry caught a
glimpse of Hermione e flew towards her, the fan girls sending her murderous
looks.
The boy landed at her side, smiling. He lifted his ever-clean goggles up and
looked at her with those eyes. It was not fair, she thought. The way he made
her feel, down to her center…
She came back to earth when he asked "Are you ok?"
"Yeah yeah...", just lost in his thoughts.
"So... Quidditch practice Mione?"
"I needed to get you alone" she saw the fan girls leaving, looking at them. "I
had made some researched" she started, entering that full lecture mode Harry
was so familiar. "And discovered some things, it is impressive what they do not
teach us here" Harry sat down on her side, resting the firebolt on his
shoulder. "For example, the fact lycanthropy can only affect magical beings,
sure the muggles have their legends, but probably is because they crossed paths
with some infected wizard. See, the curse needs a magic core to grow, it feeds
on the wizard magic"
"Like a virus?"
"Kinda, I guess the best analogue would be the rabies virus". Now Harry looked
scared, and she quickly continued "but it is not deadly by itself. Quite the
contrary". Now he looked confused.
"As I said, the curse feeds on the magic of the host, at first I thought it
would use it to create and sustain the transformation, that is the reason
people feel drained after the transformation cycles, but then I discovered is
not only that. It uses the magic for other things too. As the transformation
approach, your physical attributes may increase, and your senses become more
and more enhanced."
"That explains a lot" said Harry.
Hermione sighed, "That is accompanied from a substantial increase in aggressive
tendencies and… appetites…" she seemed uncomfortable.
"I will get angry easily and eat more? Like Ron?"
"Not funny Harry! I mean really aggressive, dangerous even, and… there are
other kinds of appetites…"
"What do you mean…"
"Sexual appetite…"
They both stay there, blushing in silence for a couple minutes.
"Hum… well… there is more…" she continued as he buried his face on his hands,
"depending on the time and magical power of the wizard, the changes can become
permanent… not that you will be a wolf all the time, but senses, physical
strength... And… the other things… that's the reason werewolves can't be
professional athletes…"
He looked at the field in silence…
"Just my luck, don't you think?" he said finally, not looking at her "sometimes
it seems I am a character on the most weird story… And Mione, before you start,
for once, I don't regret it!"
He got up "I need a shower" he looked at her in the eyes, Hermione felt her
heart accelerating. "Hermione, when you are going to tell me what happened with
Ron?"
.oOo.
Harry saw the girl go a little pale, but she dismissed him, telling he got more
important things to worry about. He knew something was wrong, and he hated
sharing his time between his two friends. Although, expending some time with
Hermione, away from Ron, had made him rethink some of the boy's attitude, as
well as his own. How much of Ron's behaviour he had overlooked by the simple
fact he didn't want to antagonise his first friend.
With that though, he entered the dressing room and noticed that the other
players had already been gone. Good, he preferred that way, he didn't like
people looking at him as some sort of defenceless kid, like madam Pomfrey did
every time he ended up at the hospital wing.
He threw his pants on the wooden bench, as well as his boots, knee pads, gloves
and his goggles. A little blind he opened the shower and proceed to remove his
shirt. A second after it has pass through his head, he took a deep breath and
stopped, scared.
He was not alone.
He took another deep breath.
"Katie…?" he said, blushing, but without turning.
"You know…" he heard she saying in a low voice, "we can go after the bastard
that made this to you and make him pay."
Harry froze, he stayed there, on his boxers, knowing that she could see his
back. She approached him, and something started pouting on the back of his
mind… something that usually just appeared on the full moon nights. Amplifying
his senses … and needs.
A hand touched his shoulder and started turning him around, "You smelled me,
don't you? I knew it!" He was turned to her now, she was really close. He could
feel her warm breath on his neck. Her hands traced the scar of Remus bite.
"Interesting summer indeed" she whispered, then said on his ear, sending
shivers on his back "tell me Harry, what do I smell like?" his body responded
before his mouth, the wolf was close now…
"Like... the grass... of the field... mixed with fresh strawberries" he
answered without even notice, she was too close, Harry was uncomfortably aware
of his erection, and certainly she was too.
Katie slowly put the glasses on his face, and suddenly he could see her.
Harry's eyes went wide with the site, she had her shirt unbuttoned, showing her
flat and defined stomach, and the little valley between her breasts. Her legs
were toned and muscular, her body was fit from years of quidditch. Her knickers
were simple cotton blue ones, but well fitted, as he could discern the contours
of her center. He felt his member jump against his boxers, but couldn't bring
himself to speak.
"Thank you" she said with a grim. "You look good too, Harry…" she said tracing
her fingers through his chest and abdomen, getting dangerously close of his
boxers.
"Take her…" the wolf whispered on his mind…
Katie closed the distance between them and put her arms around his neck, their
bodies touching almost head to toe. They were almost the same high, she lifted
herself on the point of her feet and grinded her panties clad center on his
erection. She approached her mouth onto his. "You can touch me Harry…"
She kissed him, and his mind went blank for a second, then it started again,
but the wolf was there with him now. Her tongue liked his lips, as if asking
for permission, which he granted. She was almost mapping his mouth, her tongue
dancing against his own and his lips. Her hands runned through his messy hair,
forcefully grabbing it. Without though, Harry's hands grabbed her firm bum,
helping her grind against his member. "Yes" she whispered when she let go of
his mouth, gasping for air.
With one hand she grabbed and pushed Harry's hair, exposing his neck, which she
moved to kiss, bite and suck with much need, the other hand scratched his back
from top to bottom, as his own hands worked her ass. She increased the rhythm
of her hips until she came the first time, biting his neck. He left a small
grunt as she slowed down.
"We are not done yet…" she whispered on his ear, before lightning bite his
earlobe.
Breathing heavy, not thinking clearly, Harry let Katie take him, and lead him
to the wooden bench. "You… you are beautiful" finally could say after mustering
all the conscious mind he got left. "Thank you…" she answered, helping him out
of his boxers. She looked at Harry's member, pulsing with his heartbeat, and
liked her lips. "Now relax, let me do the work…"
She passed his leg over his lap, standing in front of him, Harry's hands
grabbed her breasts, and Katie let out a little moan.
With one hand, Katie grabbed his dick, and with the other, she pushed her
knickers to the side. Letting herself go down a little, first she rubbed
Harry's member head at her entrance, then, without let it in, slide all the way
to the base. Harry felt how dripping wet she was, spreading her juices on him,
she repeated the movement two more times, stopping only to tease her clit,
then, on the third, she aligned his cock with entrance and buried herself in
it.
She let out a loud moan, feeling full and Harry instantly thought that it was
one of the most beautiful sound he had ever heard. Katie looked at him, she was
suet, her hair was a mess, but there was a sparkle on her eyes, and the smile,
Harry loved that smile. The feeling his was getting from his member was
different from anything he ever imagined, hot, wet, cosy, delicious… he won't
know how to describe.
Then she started moving…
Harry gasped, it was amazing, her juices dripping into him, her hands grabbing
his shoulder, her moans, he felt alive. The tension building on his member was
almost unbearable. "Harry!" Katie screamed as she approached the climax. "Come
for me Harry…" that was enough to send both to the edge, screaming as they came
together.
Katie collapse into Harry's shoulder, panting. Both stayed there, still
connected in bliss for a couple minutes. He could fell the wolf subsiding,
satisfied, he felt a little guilty for letting himself get carried away like
that. But then Katie looked at Harry, and there was the smile, the one he would
do anything to give her. So radiant and beautiful. "Thank you, Harry" she
whispered, "it was amazing, better than I could ever expected…" she got up, and
both moan at the lost contact. "You, sir, need a shower". She took her things,
and move in the direction of the girl's dressing room.
"I see you at dinner" Katie said smiling, leaving a very satisfied, but also
very confused Harry at the bench.
***** Chapter 04 *****
Chapter Summary
     The first full moon and its afetermach
AN: At this chapter the plot of Gof and OoF start merging, so a reminder that
the tournament was transferred for the fifth year in this AU
Also i don't own nothing =]
 
Chapter 04
The first full moon he was to expend at Hogwarts was approaching, and Harry
could feel it stronger than ever. But this time the “wolf” was different.
At privet drive, it was usually all about rage and the thrive to hurt the
Dursley's, as bad as they done to him. That scared Harry, and he sometimes was
even thankful for his isolation.
But here was different, and he was pretty sure what had happened with Katie had
something to do with it. The rage was still there, but there was something
else… when he saw Ginny's freckles going down her neck, the beautiful color of
Parma’s skin, the power of Angelina at the quidditch field, Lavender's breasts,
and Daphne’s incredible figure. Specifically when he remembered the feeling of
Katie's bum in his hands, or Hermione's amazing hair.
Hermione was right, as always.
That scared him, a lot, maybe even more than the rage. He was not that guy, he
didn't want to be that guy, he didn't even like when Seamus and Ron started
talking like that about the girls.
But he remembered the way Katie smiled at him, and all this had gone away, at
least for a moment.
That was another thing; Harry was confused about where they stand. Katie
herself hasn’t changed the way she acted around him, at least in public,
although she had been way more randy under the table when they sat down
together at meals. He believed it was better this way. Harry needed to learn
about his new self first, and how to live with it. It was fun, and seems that
it was what they both needed for now. It was also somewhat fun trying to
deflect Hermione's questions about the marks on his neck for the first days.
He was alone at the table, early in the morning, his sleep patterns always got
a little erratic so close to the full moon. Almost like magic, as soon as the
bacon and sausage appeared in from of him, Hedwig landed in the table.
“Hello girl, how was France, did you get to know Fleur?” Hedwig shook her
feathers and extended the letter to Harry. He took it and gave her some bacon
slices with a smile. “You are waaaay too clever, you know that.”
The smell of lilies and vanilla hit Harry almost immediately, “addictive” he
though, and for some reason he got excited to open the letter and read it at
once.
Dear Harry Potter
It was with real Happiness that I got your response. I confess to be afraid,
but would understand if you choose not to write me back. I can really see how
hard it must be for you to trust a stranger in your position.
To be honest, I can completely understand what you were saying, to be binded
and judge by the accidental circumstances of your birth. Most people don't even
bother trying to know who you are, and assume things you should or should not
do. No matter what you do for yourself or how much you exede on something. And
now that I think about it, for you must be even worse, as said circumstances
are a constant reminder of the tragedy you been through. At least I have my
family to turn on too when things get too hard.
How can people turn such a beautiful and powerful act of love in something so
painful is beyond me.
Sorry for my little rant. So many things are wrong, even here in France. All I
wanted to say is that I understand you, at least in some level.
I am also looking forward to get to know Hogwarts, and specifically the
students (you and Angelina for the most part, of course), although I am really
afraid of that dread thing you call food over there. They say the lake at the
castle is beautiful, and so is the forest. It is true you have unicorns over
there?
Maybe you and your friends can take me on a tour. I really don't know how
exactly this tournament will work, or even if I will be part of it, all records
are really scary. But maybe is something I need to try for myself.
Thank you again Harry Potter, I hope to hear from you soon.
Fleur Delacour
PS: Hedwig is really an astonishing and smart owl, and I can see you treat her
well. Give her my thanks again.
 
Harry was astonished, Fleur really seemed to understand. Probably she has gone
through something like he had? Would it be polite to ask? As he decided to not
ask, and just keep the conversation going, Hermione sat by his side.
“Fleur?”
“Yep”
“So? Are you going to keep writing her?”
“I think so; she will be here in three weeks anyways”
Hermione bite her lip, sending shivers through Harry’s back, awaking the wolf.
 
Fenrir listened to the insane screams of Bellatrix Lestrange on the cell next
to his. He knew she wasn't half as insane people think, but she didn't know he
wasn't half as stupid people think he was, and that was the way he liked.
This time it is Voldemort, last time was Grindelwald, the name of the so called
dark Lord didn't matter to him.
He would outlive them all.
All it matters was to get his spoils, to make his pack bigger and stronger, to
become the alpha he was destined to be. If said dark Lord provided him with his
little girls, he would help, for a time.
These damn wizards didn't know the true strength of his people, no, not even
his people know.
All they had to do was taste human flesh.
 
“No Hermione, I don't need some kind of Knight in shining armor, specifically
if it is Gryffindor's golden boy!” Daphne said.
Daphne and Tracy had meet Hermione on their usual table at the library.
Something had happened that morning.
“You know, he really hates that nickname” Hermione told her with a faint smile.
“You have to understand Daphne, not only can he protect you, it plays all too
well on our own plans” Hermione took her hand. “And our plans need you to
succeed, and it needs to be done this year. There will be no stupid quidditch
cup this year, it is perfect!”
“I don't want to owe anything to Potter!”
“If you think you would, than you really don't know him. He is making an effort
to look pass all the crap Ro… Wesley fed him in the last four years!” Hermione
finished, and Daphne could see the hurt in her eyes.
Harry chose that moment to show up. Daphne looked at him walking to the table,
oblivious to the looks the other occupants gave him. How could someone have
such an effect on everyone, and not notice? Daphne assumed her ice queen stance
almost by reflex.
“Greengrass, Davis” he said with a nod when he reached the table, Daphne
couldn't perceive any ill tone on his voice, he was actually being… friendly?
“Potter” Daphne said coldly
“Sorry to interrupt, but could I talk with you for a minute, Hermione?”
The girl got up, and Daphne watched as they had gone between the shelves, not
exactly hiding, but talking in a low tone. Harry talked first, Hermione looked
concerned, he gave her a sort of reassuring smile that seemed to work. They
really knew each other, the Slytherin though with a little touch of envy, even
if the entire school turned its back on Harry again, he would have Hermione.
And she would have him. Maybe that was something worth having.
Then Harry showed Hermione a piece of parchment and she became really happy,
giving a hug. That was not a just friend’s hug, Daphne could tell. He whispered
something in her ear and a happy tear rolled down her cheeks.
That was real, Daphne though, that was what she herself wanted. She was growing
really tired of power games and junior death eaters.
They both returned to the table, Hermione sat down and Harry said “Sorry.”
“You really to stop apologizing Potter” Daphne said. “You don't need it, and it
doesn't suit you.” She tried to keep her expression as blank as possible.
He smiled at her, and turned to leave, but with a deep breath he stopped.
Harry turned to her, her eyes had changed, the shyness was gone, and there was
only resolve now. Daphne almost lost herself on the emerald green.
“Greengrass… no… Daphne” he said “I don't know what is wrong, but let me say
this, I don't care which house you are, Hermione trusts you, and that is enough
for me. If you need my help, for anything, I will do it!”
He looked her in the eyes, smiled and left. Daphne couldn't hide her surprise,
how did he know?
 
Fleur was fuming. One week detention, for defending her family nonetheless. She
entered the great hall and stormed at the sixty year’s table. The three other
girls looked at her expression and leave.
“Good!” Fleur thought, “That way I don't get tempted to extend my detention.”
A tear rolled on her face, she missed home.
“It is true you hexed Matthieu so hard that u broke both his legs?” Regine
asked sitting by her side.
“WHAT!!! No!!! I made him vomit every time he said the word Delacour, then he
slipped on his own goo” Fleur said “maybe he twisted an ankle, nothing more!!
Those liars!!”
“What did he do to deserve it, and I know for sure he did something.” Regine
asked in amusement, angry Fleur was a sight to behold.
“He had the audacity to accuse my father of using Mon, Gabrielle and myself to
get votes from the council. Said that we were using the allure, and that was
the only reason he got that far!!! Gabrielle hasn’t even awakened her allure!
She is eleven!”
“Breath Fleur, breath…” Regine tried, but couldn't contain a smile. “Don't mind
that bastard, he never got over the fact you rejected him last summer. Typical
entitle pureblood idiot.”
“I know, but… sigh…”
As she tried to calm herself, Hedwig entered through one of the big windows and
landed in front of her.
“Hello Hedwig, good to see you again” Fleur said with a smile. She took the
letter from the owl without hiding her excitement.
“Good to see I can't compete with a boy thousands of kilometers from here…”
Regina said with a grin.
“Ohh, shut up, you will always be first in my heart” Fleur said, opening the
letter.
Dear Fleur
I don't know what to say, that was the most precise and heartfelt description
of what goes on I had ever seen. You managed to put into words something I
never could. I don't actually know what you been through (and I know by the way
you wrote that you had or have been through something) but I really hope one
day you trust me enough to tell.
Everything you said was spot on, thinking about it, I even believe that's the
reason I play quidditch, to make something on my own, to be good on something
that I made myself.
Fleur, don't you ever, ever, feel sorry for relaying on your family, it is the
most important thing in the world to know we are not alone.
I must say I am really looking forward to give you a tour around Hogwarts,
maybe we can even get to see the giant squid at the lake, she is actually quite
friendly, and, if you got into the tournament, I will root for you, school
loyat be damned!
I hope you don't get to disappointed at meeting me anyway.
Thank you for understanding
Harry James Potter.
“For being the most famous boy in England, he sure has some self esteem
problems…” Regine said, giving the letter back to Fleur. “But he seems like a
really nice guy, and I wholehearted agree with him about your family.”
Fleur simply nodded,
She didn't want to say, but she was also afraid. What if her allure messed with
everything?
 
Harry was moving towards the dungeons, it was a couple hours before nightfall
and he needed to get out of the castle. The amount of stimulation was
overloading his senses. So much noise, people talking, smells… he could hear
excited talk about the arrival of the foreign schools, people gossiping about
other students, or how Harry himself broke the imperious curse at defense. The
smell of perfume, snacks and other not so pleasant things hit him like punches.
He wanted out, but he needed the wolfsbane potion from Snape first. He was sure
the greasy bat didn't give it to him before on propose, so he had to make the
walk to his office at the dungeons.
In a way, Harry didn't even care anyone.
He crossed very few Slytherin students, and it was thankful for that, but next
to Snape's office, he noticed something.
Something familiar.
The smell of fear.
Almost instinctively he made a left turn to an mostly desert and dark corridor.
Why the hell did a school have so many dark corners like Hogwarts, he wonders.
He stopped, there was a familiar voice.
“Now, you can blame this on your bitch of a sister” Harry could now see Crabbe
and Goyle, and behind then, Draco Malfoy was pressing a young girl with raven
black hair against the tapestry on the wall. “No one denies me. She didn't
learn with what happened with Zanbinni, but will now”
Harry's heart started pounding fast, what the heck was he doing? Was Draco
really that far gone?
“Let me go!!” The girl screamed defiantly. She was no more than a third year.
The fighting back seemed to pull Draco even more to the edge. He pushed the
girl forcefully to the wall, a hand on her neck.
That was enough.
“Let her go...now!” Harry screamed, his heart beating fast, his mind rushing.
He looked to the three boys, and realized he was not afraid.
“Prey…” the shadow in his mind whispered.
All of the other four people look at him, surprised. “Potter?! You two, stun
him now!!”
Harry's hand stormed to his pocket. “No!! No wand” the wolf said on his mind.
“They are prey.”
Faster than any of them could imagine, even Harry himself, he closed the
distance between him and Malfoy, shoving Crabbe and Goyle to the sided along
the way. For a second, Draco could see the rage in Harry's eyes, an inch from
his own, before feeling the pain radiating from his stomach.
Draco curved with the pain, and the next punch hit him on the face. Once the on
floor, Harry was over him, landing another punch.
Harry barely felt the stunner hit him on the shoulder, no more than a itching
feeling. He turned to see the astonished face of Crabbe, holding his wand. He
could hear himself growling.
“POTTER!!!!” Snape's voice rumbled through the corridor, bringing him back from
his rage. Goyle helped Malfoy from the floor, and the three Slytherin boys
started running on the other direction.
“I will get you for this Potter” Draco said, full of venom before disappearing
around the corner.
Harry turned to face the professor, still breathing fast. The girl appeared
from behind him, still quite pale.
“Professor, he helped…”
“You are already in enough trouble, Miss Greengrass, I suggest you to go back
to your common room at once, as for you Potter, my office, now.” Snape
interrupted in even tone. The girl looked at Harry and walked quickly through
the corridor.
Harry entered the dark room Snape called office, the mold smell was terrible,
making Harry dizzy…
“Sir…” Harry started.
“Running around the castle when you have an appointment with a professor” Snape
interrupted without turning to him, looking at his shelves, “assaulting a
fellow student and risking many others… I would say... 75 points from
Gryffindor.” He turned to Harry with a vial in his hands. “I would prescribe
you some detention, but I have the feeling your next nights will be bad
enough…”
 
Hermione looked at the moon through the window of the girl's dorm, she was so
happy when Harry said he had dropped divination and was starting runes. Ron
would be angry...
Harry didn't show for dinner, as she had expected. Very few people seem to
notice. Ginny and Neville asked, but she dismissed them, if Ron noticed, he
didn't show…
“Harry smelled Daphne's fear” she thought, “but he had not been infected for so
long, it should have taken at least a couple years… bloody hell Harry, not even
the curses work right with you” she smiled at this.
She looked at the pile of books over her bed, “but it has been too fast… why?”
Then she remembered last year, Sirius, Peter, and the dementors…
She remembered the cold, feeling so sad and so lost she thought it will never
be good again… Harry was bleeding profusely from Remus's bite… getting weaker
and weaker. When she had lost hope, Harry brought her closer, almost an embrace
and screamed the patronus charm. The air around then cracked, the stones were
lifted from the ground, she felt pure magic running through him and leaving at
his wand, the giant stag charged into the flying wraiths, with a wall of bright
energy behind him, only them she could see the astonishing number of dementors
surrounding them, and been repealed. At that moment, Harry was power…
A howling bring her back from the memory, it was not angry, not even sad… it
was lonely.
All the books she had read agreed in one point. A lone wolf was a dead wolf.
HPHPHP
Harry drift until consciousness slowly, his senses of smell and hearing waking
before his sight. He could hear the muttering of a voice, the anxious breathing
of a dog, he could even hear the bees flying around the sweet tea. He knew it
was sweet tea, he could smell it, almost taste it, alongside the warm bread a
couple feet away. The he felt the smell of the fur blanket covering him, and
Hagrid's strong musk
. Then he smelled the grass outside, and let his senses expand, the trees, the
lake, a fox, the stones of the castle, the breakfast been cooked by the elves
He could almost “see” it.
He opened his eyes and the pain on his body made him focus. Goyle’s hex came
back with a vengeance, making his left shoulder and arm really stiff and
painful. He was in Hagrid's hut, and the large man was looking at him.
“ 'ncredible don't ye think lad, been part of it all… feeling 'ware”
“What it this Hagrid?”
“U 'now 'Arry, we hunted together last night, some nasty spiders. Yer a
natural!”
Harry sat up, in pain.
“Don't worry, the pain will be gone with time, if ye learn… poor Remus never
learned… but ye m’boy, ya’re a powerhouse!!”
“What are you talking about Hagrid? I am still me, just Harry!!! Now I am just
cursed Harry, but I am still the same.”
“Ha!!! Ye wer never just 'Arry!!! And curse is a matter of perspective! Would
ye call what u just felt a curse?”
Harry thought for a second, no… it was… fulfilling?
“But Dumbledore and Remus…”
“Those are much wiser men than old me, of course… but not even then can know it
all… some people are too trapped on their own ways… 'ere. Take this.” Hagrid
extended him a tome.
“A book, you are giving me a book?” Harry was a little amused by the whole
situation.
“I got from a 'od friend, now, ye school clothes are on that chair, I believe u
going to feel better than u think after some food on yer belly”
It was true, it still hurts, but nowhere near like it did on privet drive,
Hagrid may really know what he was talking about.
“Since when are you so wise big man?” Harry asked.
“Well, no one ever asked” and he laughed.
 
A very curious Albus Dumbledore watched as Harry Potter entered the great Hall
for breakfast. Harry was walking a little slower and arched, true be told, but
even that was remarkable, usually newly cursed like him stay drained for almost
an entire day. Specifically with the special modified potion the headmaster had
ordered Snape to give him.
“The boy is really remarkable” Albus though with a smile. “I must test his
limits; it may be helpful in the fight to come.”
He made a mental note to ask Snape for a more potent mixture for the next
cycle, as he watched “his boy” sitting at the side of his muggle born friend.
 
The dummy golems laid in pieces at the ground of the defense class arena, as
did some of Fleur's frustrations. As if the attack on her person were not
enough, the attacks on her family had gotten a lot worse lately. The voyage to
Britain was around the corner, and two weeks after their arrival, the council
would vote on the new French ministry of magic.
Fleur was remorseful that she would not be there with her father; because of a
stupid, dangerous tournament she didn't even know she would be part of.
“Why am I doing this?”
She looked at the destroyed training golems.
“Because it would bring honor and fame to myself and my house? No, my father is
noble and rich enough to bypass even the pureblood bigotry of the council. To
prove myself to Madam Maxine and the other students, that I am much more than
just a veela? Fuck them” she amused herself with her own bravado, “even if I
got choose and win they would still despise me, maybe even more!”
She looked at her wand, carrying her heritage and coming to a conclusion. She
smiled.
“No, I will do it for myself, because I can. And because I WANT!
She got out of the training room feeling better with herself, and more
resolved.
And she wanted to write Harry about it.
 
The next day, Harry walked Hermione to her arithmancy class, telling her about
the weird conversation he had with Hagrid. He also told her that he was feeling
way better than he usually did on the Dursley’s. Hermione’s analytical mind
worked ever so fast talkin about better diet and ambient magic. She had a point
Harry though, but there was also something else.
He still had a free period before runes, so he decided to start on reading the
book Hagrid gave him. What would Ron think about Harry using his free time to
read a book? The thought made the boy smile.
But he would soon discover, as Ron crossed him in the Gryffindor tower common
room.
“What the fuck is happening mate?” Ron asked in a rather harsh tone, walking in
his direction.
“What do you mean?”
“You dropped divination without telling me; almost don't stay around for
practice…”
“There is no cup this year, Ron…”
“So? You are now too good for practice then?”
“I didn't say that...”
“You expend all your time with Hermione, slacking off…”
“WHAT? Slacking off? I am studying for once…”
“And then you vanished, without saying a word!!” Some other Gryffindor’s at the
common room were looking at then, Ron was a at least two inches higher than
Harry, and he was very close now.
“Ron, why are you doing this?”
“Are you shagging Hermione “mate”” he was really close now, gritting his teeth.
Harry couldn't believe that was happening. More people joined around then,
looking in silence.
“What the fuck Ron” Harry could feel the now familiar itching in his mind.
Ron steps closer, effectively looking down on Harry, to hum the situation was
totally surreal.
“Are you bloody shagging Hermione?”
“Prey…”
“WHAT IF I AM, RON!!!” Harry exploded, something sparkling in his eyes, that
made Ron take two steps back. “What if I am?” This time Harry stepped closer to
the other boy, for some reason he didn't look smaller anymore. “She doesn't
belong to you or me for that matter! You choose to step aside” his breath was
heavy and he could see the fear on Ron's eyes, and suddenly felt bad for giving
into the rage.
Harry stepped back and looked around the room, having flashbacks of the whole
Heir of Slytherin situation. He calmed himself down.
“She is my friend” he said to Ron, but loud enough so everyone could hear. “And
I don't like people talking like that about my friends. Please, don't do that;
don't make choose between you two.” Harry gave a last sad look at Ron, then
everyone one else, and leaved the room.
As he left the stairs and walked down the corridor he could not help but smile,
Hermione would be all over him for this, and not in a good way. He knew pretty
well she could defend herself, but he couldn't help.
Then a hand pulled him into a broom cupboard. He felt the strawberries smell,
and Katie claimed his lips with need. Pulling him by his tie, her tongue
dancing almost forcefully through his mouth.
“Damn, that was hot!” She said gasping for air, “I bet Wesley needs some clean
pants now” she pushed him to the wall, on a small shelf at his hips high. He
was almost leaning on the wall as she kissed him again.
Her hands dipped in need to his trousers, and he respond in kind, feeling bold
after the confrontation with Ron. He placed his hand on her thigh, and moved up
her skirt, finding her soaked knickers. He rubbed her center over the soft wet
fabric, gaining a moan as reward. He loved the sound.
“Hum… I like the new Harry…” she said against his lips. Understanding as an
encouragement, the boy pushed his hand inside her knickers, his fingers running
through Katie’s dripping inner lips, than sliding around her clit. “Yeas… try…
to… daaaamn… focus… your... senses on… meeeee…” she finished with a long moan.
Harry did just that, the smell of her sweet, mixed with her arousal, the
moisture of her breath and lips, her hand working his zipper, her firm thighs
around his hips… the overload of stimulus made him gasp, and let out a loud
moan, making Katie smile.
She finally freed his member, and grabbed it, stroking a little too strongly a
couple times, before repeating the slide motion with her inner lips, all along
his length, spreading her own juices over him, before align it with her
entrance. She kissed him profusely and sat down; feeling herself stretching
just enough to accommodate Harry, as he easily entered her.
Their hips touched as she had him completely inside her. Katie stood there,
enjoying the feeling of fullness for a while, before start rocking up and down,
in an ever increasing pace. Harry's hands grabbed her bum, and helped her keep
the movement.
Worked up as she was, I didn't take long before she was over the edge, calling
Harry's name, and that was enough for him to go with her. He released inside
her, biting her tie. Katie collapsed over him, and they both stayed there for a
couple minutes, in bliss, enjoying the contact. Harry looked at her, and there
was the smile, he felt great.
They both moan at the loss of contact when she got up. After a few drying and
cleaning spells, Katie kissed Harry again.
“It was amazing Harry.”
“Yeah, it was…” he looked at her, smiling. “Katie, what are we doing?”
Katie placed her arms around his neck. “I always had a crush on you Harry,
since my third year. But I was always afraid of these damn magical hormones”
she kissed him again and took a deep breath, enjoying his post coital smells.
“And you were always distant, in some adventure, kind like a platonic dream.
Even when we played together.”
“Everyone got me scared of this drive we have. And you were so hard to get
close. But then I felt you this year, you had changed, I could see it. And the
smell, damn, your smell is different of everything; it is not like any other
guy!!” He just looked at her, blushing. “I made a decision, I would make a
move, and man, I would try to have fun doing it. I would not need to refrain
myself for once, you could understand how I feel… I hope you don't think I am a
slag or something.”
“Katie” he said smiling at her, she lost herself in those deep eyes for a
second. “Who am I to judge you, it is your decision and I am happily going
along. It is actually helping me. I would never think any less of you; I think
I actually admire you”
She kissed him again.
“So… we… are…?” he asked.
“Having fun, for now?”
“Sounds good, and you can count on me for whatever you need”
“Oh, I am counting on it Mister Potter” she said grabbing his bum.
“Hum, can I ask when you were bitten?”
She moved away from him a little, and lowered her socks. He could see the scar
on her right leg.
“I was five, so I have been living with this for as long as I can remember”
Harry looked at her, astonished. “I have made my peace with it; my only sadness
is that I will not be able to play professionally.”
“Does the staff know?”
“The headmaster does, he allow me to be portkeyed home every full moon.
Angelina knows too”
Harry looked confused. “You don't stay on the grounds like me? Why?”
“Well, I guess the old man really wants to keep an eye on you, Boy-who-turned.”
 
Daphne was feeling nervous. She didn't know what to expect, and she didn't like
it. “Damn noble git”, she thought. Waiting with here there were two other
Slytherin girls.
There he was, walking to the great Hall with the other half-blood, Katie Bell.
“They look a lot closer this days” she said to Tracy, “I wonder what Hermione
think of that.” the three Slytherin girls waited.
Harry and Katie got separated, and Daphne seized the opportunity. Looking
around, with no other Slytherin students nearby, she walked to Harry and locked
her arms on his. “Come with me Potter” she whispered. He hesitates, but
remembered Hermione trusted her.
They entered an unused classroom, Daphne asked Tracy to stay at the door while
the other three entered the room.
“All right Greengrass…” Harry couldn't even finish the sentence; the other girl
threw herself at him in a hug. Feeling really embarrassed he looked at Daphne
who had her usual cold face, her arms crossed around her chest.
“Potter, that is my sister, Astoria”
The girl released Harry, and he finally recognized her, it was the third year
he had saved from Malfoy and his goons. She had the same midnight black hair of
her older sister, and a very similar slim build. She looked at him with watery
eyes and a shy smile.
“Thank you Harry, thank you thank you thank you…”
Daphne was surprised by the look on Harry's face, not a sign of mockery or
patronizing, only reassurance and honestly. Something she rarely had seen
outside her family.
“Don't worry Astoria” he said. “It's always a pleasure to put that little
ferret on his place.”
“OK Toria, that is enough” Daphne said emotionless. “Potter, you saved my
sister, and gave Malfoy a black eye. I don't even know what would had happened
if you were not there. I owe you. And I hate owing anything to anyone. So what
do you want?”
She tried to read the boy expressions, it started with confusion, then disgust
and then resolution.
“You owe me nothing Daphne. If anything I should thank you for being there for
Hermione when I was not.” To say Daphne was surprised by this was an
understatement. “She trusted you, and you bring her those books.”
Daphne was baffled.
“But I do want to ask for us to work together” Harry concluded.
“I am listening.” She said, curious.
“Don't you find it strange the everyone talks about the Potters, how important
they were, how much power they seem to have and yet I am a idiot in regards of
politics and pureblood tradition?” She nodded, it really was strange. “Well,
Hermione and I started to think that too, last year, so I had a talk with
Neville Longbottom about it. He told me about the Wizgamot, and of the house
sits. About how his gran is trying to fight the death eaters politically. I
didn't understand much I will admit. But then it struck Me.” he looked directly
in her eyes.
“Are you not tired of living for someone’s rules? Even the war we have to fight
is our parent’s war. That is not even close to fair. And if we keep using their
methods and laws, we will keep doing the same mistakes”
“And what do you propose Potter, to you to become ministry of magic?”
“I don't even know if I will be alive this time next year Daphne” he said
without looking away, she and her sister gulped.
“I want to start the changes here, I want Slytherin to stop been a internship
for death eaters, I want the Gryffindor’s to stop judging people by their
upbringing. House rivalries are stupid, to start with. Maybe I am being naive,
but I believe not half the people that follow Malfoy would do so without the
fear of been ostracized at their own house, of course there is his father,
again another bloody thing that generation failed us.”
“Neville is great, but he could only teach me and Hermione as much, to an
extent, he does better with his plants and I don't blame him. I need you to
school me, and in exchange I will teach you, Astoria and even Tracy to defend
yourselves and make front to Malfoy and his goons. I want YOU to take control
of Slytherin in his place”
Daphne was paralyzed, trying to digest everything that was said to her. A
chance to become the uncalled leader of her school house, but more importantly,
to learn how to defend herself and her sister. Harry Potter could be many
things, but everybody knew, since second year, he was someone you don't want
cross wands with. And if Hermione’s stories about dementors and killers were
true, he was even more powerful than people suspect.
“Think about it Daphne”
“I will Pot… Harry.”
As soon as Harry left the classroom Tracy entered and looked at the two
sisters. “So?” She started.
Daphne looked at her and seemed confused.
“I… I… I think I am in love…”
***** Chapter 05 *****
AN: I don't own Harry, i think is kinda wrong to own a person…
Just a Reminder, this AU is a mixture of years 4 and 5, so harry is 15,
hermione is 16 and fleur 17, I am also doing my best to improve both my
spelling and my grammar, thanks to my betas!
I am a Illustrator, if you are interested in see illustrations for this story
(Note that some are NSFW) you can go at you can go to: hpbayushi.tumblr.com/
archive
Thanx to AWR and eragonflyer for beta reading and helping me!
 
Chapter 05
Harry, sitting at the Gryffindor table folded the letter he just read. Bertrand
had delivered it and flew to the owlery to get some rest. He was very happy
with Fleur's last letter. Her tone was way more tranquil, and he felt some new
resolve from his French correspondent. He planned to write an equally happy and
reassuring response. Harry didn't want to bother the girl with his problems,
like Ron and the other student’s behavior, it was better for her to concentrate
on the training. He planned to have the letter done for the big owl to take
back with him, but Hermione’s exasperated voice behind him said otherwise.
“Harry James Potter, what is this history of you fighting Ron over me?”
“I see the gossiping central got a hold of you…”
Hermione sat down on his side. “What were you thinking Harry?”
“Sigh… first of all, I didn't fight over you, I know better… more like we
fought about you amidst other things…”
Hermione raised an eyebrow. “Harry, I don't know what to say… but that is not
an excuse to behave like thug!”
“Well, maybe when you feel comfortable, you can tell me what happened between
you two.” she bit her lip, taken by surprise. “It’s not your fault anyway, Ron
was being his usual selfish and jealous self, and maybe I really deserved it”
finished Harry.
“Why would you say that?” Hermione asked.
“Because I’d rather spend my time with you” Harry answered, hoping that the
girl didn't catch his blushing. “Anyway, I talked to Daphne” he tried to change
the subject. “I think she will agree, I also would like to include Neville,
Angelina, Katie and Ginny, maybe Ron…”
“Maybe…”
“Do you really think it’s a good idea? I never taught anyone.”
“You teach me as much as I teach you sometimes Harry, I think it will work. We
need to learn how to defend ourselves!”
Harry got up. “Well, I need to write a letter before Bertrand flies away, I
will think about how to proceed with that too, talk to you later.”
 
Katie Bell was cautiously happy. She really liked Harry, more than he needed to
know right now. And he was developing really fast, Maybe too fast.
She imagined what he could do for her family in the future. He was powerful and
famous. And now one of them.
Maybe they would no longer be third class citizens and seen as dark creatures.
They could even erase the stain people like that monster Fenrir Greyback left.
All while satisfying her own needs.
He only needed to learn and accept.
“Am I using him?” She tough. “No, I really like him; I really like to be with
him. I will help him become the Alpha he can be”
“If he survives until then...” she concluded with sadness
 
Fleur finished reading the letter that came back with Bertrand. She had a smile
on her face. How could one be so down on himself but so reassuring to others?
What could have happened to him? His letter was all cheer, a true admiration of
her resolve, and even a promise of a butterbeer if she found him worthy after
they met in person. At this point that was improbable.
And more than that, Fleur was certain that Harry would help on the mission her
father entrusted to her. Fleur was also pleased she would be able to offer some
more light on his past It was clear by his letter that he didn’t know who the
Delacours were. The witch was really puzzled by this. Why would his magical
guardian never mention them?
She thought about her father, the heir of a rich and powerful family, with both
relational and commercial ties to several other important magical families all
over Europe, and even so he still chose to marry a part veela. He and his
friends wanted to see the old world on fire. He told her this the day he asked
her help. “Do I?” She wondered.
Her thinking was suddenly interrupted by a fast-moving mass of silver hair. “It
is true?” Gabrielle asked in a high pitched voice. “You know Harry Potter?” Her
sister had always been somewhat of a fan, she loved the silly Boy-who-lived
book collection. Her smile was captivating and bright.
“I have been writing to him, yes” Fleur answered with a wink.
“Aaaaand?”
“Aren't you a curious little bird?” in response Gabrielle showed her best puppy
face to Fleur. “Well… he seems to be kind and caring, more interested in
hearing about you than talking about himself, a little shy, and naive, but
really proud of his friends, what? Why are you looking at me like that?”
“Nothing, nothing…” Fleur caught the knowing smile on the younger girl's face.
“Will you introduce us when we get on Scotland?”
“Of course I will, now, off to class!”
 
 
Daphne sat down at the back table in the library. The table was really becoming
their meeting spot. Hermione was already there, reading a book about the
history of the Wizengamot.
“You two are really going forward with this?” She asked Hermione.
“Yes, we are tired, Daphne. Aren't you tired of people like Malfoy? Your family
is older and wealthier than his.” Daphne could hear the hesitation in her
voice. This was not her territory; the Slytherin could hear the disgust in her
voice talking about the terms. Poor Hermione, so naive about how the wizardry
world worked.
“Your Slytherin impression is not very good, Harry did a better job…”
Hermione actually smiled at this. “Funny thing is that the hat wanted to put
him on Slytherin, but he asked not to.”
“Really, why would he do that?”
“He and Malfoy had a conflict on the train, over me and Ron, and again in the
boats. Even at eleven Harry was disgusted by the hatred displayed by Malfoy.
Add to that Ron feeding him some prejudice against Slytherin and finding out
his father was a Gryffindor and there you have it.”
Daphne though for an instant.
“That is actually good. It will be our starting point.”
Hermione looked at her, confused.
“We will feed Astoria with that story, leaving out his father part. She can
spread it to the right people, and in a couple days the whole of Slytherin will
know that the Boy-who-lived could had been one of us, if it wasn't for Malfoy.
We lost all this fame, and the best seeker in a century because of him… even
something small like that can go a long way.”
Hermione was baffled. “So, you will work with us?”
“Tell Harry the lessons will start as soon we can find a secure spot” Daphne
said with a grin.
 
“Potter and his idiotic entourage have been stealing from my stock again…”
Severus Snape exclaimed after entering the headmaster's office.
“And what makes you say that Severus” Albus Dumbledore replied, looking over
his half moon glasses to the slim, greasy haired man in front of him. All those
years of making potions in a dungeon were catching up to him. Snape looked at
least ten years older than he really was.
“Lemon drop?”
“Who else would do it? They did it his second year, and are doing it again.
Some mischievous plan to get more attention for sure” The professor responded
as he waved his hand, dismissing the candy.
“I find it hard to believe Severus. as you may have noticed, Harry's dedication
to his studies had improved substantially this term, and I believe Ms. Granger
is significantly responsible for it. It seems the boy has finally realized that
to excel in his studies is in his own best interests. I am sure he already
discovered he will not be able to pursuit a career as professional athlete.
Maybe you made some mistake at your last count?”
Snape looked at him with a sneer, offended by the suggestion. Dumbledore
rejoiced in his own ability to make him lose his temper.
Of course, Albus Dumbledore knew exactly who was stealing from his professor’s
stock. And for now, it suited his plans to have the impostor at the school,
though under extreme vigilance. At least until he found the whereabouts of the
true Alastor Moody. It would both keep Harry Potter on his toe, and be a source
of information about Tom.
“If not for that, why have you summoned me, sir?” Snape asked.
“Oh yes, I would like to request you to double the dose on Harry's potion over
the next lunar cycle, seems like we both underestimated the strength of the
curse in such a powerful young man.”
Snape looked thoughtful.
“Sir, why are you doing this? This may poison the boy beyond reversal; I don't
like him, but…”
“The alternative is way worse Severus. If we don't control it, we may end up
with another Greyback, or worse. Also we can build his own tolerance to the
curse, making him more able to control it.”
“But he can also lose control of himself in the process, becoming nothing more
than a puppet”
“That is exactly what I hope” Albus thought to himself, but his answer to the
man in front of him was different. “You underestimate the boy, Severus. He has
already proved himself capable of great things.”
“Now, if you will excuse me, I need to supervise the preparations for our
notable guests’ arrival, both domestic and from abroad. I heard Madam Dolores
Umbrage has some quite high standards.”
Sirius got back on his feet, panting and sweating profusely. “Damn French heat.
That was close, but not good enough, my mark was off by almost two seconds.”
He looked at the three people in front of him, they were some of his oldest
friends and allies, people he let down once… Remus had an apprehensive gaze,
Apolline looked beautiful and stoic, as always, and Jacques just appear to be
amused.
 
“Again…”
“Are you sure Sirius?” Lupin asked.
“Yeas, I am serious”
All three of them looked at each other.
“Seriously? A Sirius serious joke?” Apolline with her musical laughter doubled
up on the joke. This provoke and outburst of laughter from the three men.
“Yeah, I spent too much time in that hell hole. I am but a shadow of my older
self. I need to be in shape to teach Harry. You saw him Remus; those years with
the Dursleys took too much from him. The boy has all that raw power, but his
wand work is shit, and he acts only by instinct. He will need to make up for
all those lost years.”
“His lost years or yours?” Jacques asked?
“Humf, shouldn't you be at some boring political fundraising event right now
Jacques?”
“Non, this iz more fun.”
“OK” Sirius said resolute, then took a deep breath. “Again!”
All three raised their wands at the same time.
 
 
Hermione was torn. At one side, her plan with Daphne was going well, over the
last week, the rumors about Slytherin Harry had spread, even over to the other
houses. The fact Draco had a black eye and broken nose no one could seem to fix
also didn't help. Daphne was also quite busy building her connections with the
upper year students.
Hermione also couldn't deny a certain satisfaction in seeing a woman taking
power, even if slowly.
But the girls were not fooled; Malfoy would come back soon, and he would be
ruthless, Daphne was specifically afraid for Astoria. The girls knew the
Slytherin would have to do something bold and soon.
Harry was also quite dedicated to his studies, specifically ancient runes,
which he seemed to have a natural talent for. He was making up for the lost
time in a dedicated way that made her proud. Also gave her an excuse to spend
time with him.
Ron on the other hand didn't even bother trying to talk to them anymore.
But Harry also traded letters with Fleur right up to three days before she left
for Hogwarts. Most of the subject of the letters was just two friends
exchanging experiences and for some reason that made Hermione nervous.
And then, there was Katie. Katie was beautiful, fierce. Her body was fit and
she was not shy about it, she was a great player and that was a plus for Harry,
and she mostly definitely was sexually active. Harry took long walks with her,
sometimes an hour had gone by before they were seen again, smiling, the boy
with even messier hair. Most people realized something was happening, how could
a bushy haired bookworm like her compete? But Hermione also had other
suspicions.
Katie was also cursed. She must be.
But when pressed, Harry always said they were not together, just close.
But where did that leave her? She didn’t want the “friend” position anymore,
her nights spent dreaming of Harry, only to waking up soaked, her hands finding
herself in the silence of the bedroom. She had even done it in the library
after Harry left one of their study sessions to meet Katie. The thought of the
two of them together plus the almost empty library proved too much for the
witch to resist. She came with her hands inside her knickers, under the table
as images of Katie and Harry in a broom cupboard or the quidditch dressing room
went through her mind. Hermione had to run and change her wet underwear
thinking about how come she had the Gryffindor courage to do that, but not be
able to talk to the person who was her best friend and crush for almost five
years now.
With all that, plus Daphne’s problem on her mind, Hermione ended up having a
busy week. She barely notice when the ministry officials joined the professors
at the staff table.
 
 
“Hey, what are you laughing at?” Harry's voice brought Katie back.
“I was just thinking… next year's cup will be really unfair with both of us on
the team. Damn, it’s going to be great!” she laughed again. “Can you imagine
you and that blond git? He will never know what hit him”
Harry laughed. Katie could only admire him again. They were at the top of the
astronomy tower, looking at the lake and waiting. The sex had been great, once
again, and they both lay naked. For the first time, he appeared to be feeling
comfortable being completely nude next her. She felt he trusted her.
He was slim, but incredibly defined for fifteen years old. He was a little
short but not small in any other way, a true seeker through and through. She
found she liked that. And then there were the scars. His life as a werewolf had
just begun, but his body was already more marked than most men would ever get.
There was the bite scar on his left shoulder, and the strange marks Katie
suspect were from beatings on his back. There was also a big one on his right
bicep, like a piercing instrument had entered there, and something like a burn
mark around it. There was also an assortment of cut scars all over his upper
body. She could now understand why trust was a rare commodity for Harry. But
even more intriguing was his smell. For Katie, it was Harry's scent, and if she
had to describe it would be something like the strong wind before a storm,
mixed with… protection? It was a powerful combination, and she was somewhat
relieved she was the only that could sense it. Or she would have had to fight
off the other girls.
Katie knew he was not only her’s. If he was an alpha like the girl suspected,
there would be others, and she actually liked it. A lot!
Looking at him and thinking all those things made her wet again, and Harry
smiled at her, of course he could smell her arousal. “Damn, once he learned
what that scent was, I imagine how awkward it would be to smell Hermione when
she was around him.”
She got closer to him; she could also smell his own arousal. But there was
something else.
“Sorry to ruin the mood,” Harry said, “but I wanted to ask you something…”
“Sure Harry.” She sat at his side, their bodies touching.
“These feelings of anger, this… rage… how do you cope with it? Sometimes I want
to rip Malfoy's head off, specifically after what he did to Astoria. And
sometimes I feel like I am really close to doing just that.”
“I totally understand…” Katie stayed in silence for a while, thinking. How she
wished her Mom or grandfather were here, they could have done it much better
than she. “I am a half-blood, and have gone to muggle primary school you know.
Damn, I loved school. I think it’s because both humans and wolves are social
beasts” she looked at him and found only interest in those eyes. “Well, that
was until the day this kid entered our class. The boy was a prat. Picking on
others, stealing food, beating on the weaker boys. My mom had alerted me to
stay away, that I might have to leave the school if something weird happened if
you know what I mean. I was nine at the time; I was starting to understand the
division between wizards and muggles you know.”
She looked at the lake, the setting sun light reflecting on its gentle waves.
“But then, one day, he messed with a dear friend to close to the full moon, and
I lost it!” Harry could hear the emotion on the girl's voice and embraced her,
his protective instincts kicking in. Feeling reassured, Katie continued. “I hit
him hard. I don't even remember. They said I screamed, and punched, and kicked
and bit. When they finally got us apart, the kid was a bloody mess. The friend
I was defending was afraid me. I was expelled. When I got home, expected to be
grounded forever, but my family had other plans. First my grandfather, asked
for me to tell what had happened. And then, he simply asked how it felt. I
looked into his eyes and I couldn't lie, Harry. I said it felt... good.”
Katie looked at Harry's expecting the disgust look, but found only
understanding.
“Then he said it was supposed to feel good, that I should not be embarrassed by
that. The rage, he said, was part of me, and denying it would only make it
grow, I should embrace and dominate it, not let it dominate me. I asked him why
I have this thing in me. And his answer resonates with me until this day. He
said that the rage was there not to hurt those we hate, but to protect those we
love. To protect the pack.”
Harry looked deep into her caramel eyes, absorbing the words. Then he gave her
a deep, slow, caring kiss.
When they parted, Katie debated with herself about telling him about being an
alpha, love and hate. But they were surprised by movement in the sky.
A giant carriage, pulled by a great number of Pegasus appeared in the sky,
directing itself to the castle. At the same time an enormous and somewhat
sinister ship emerged from the depths of the lake.
“Well, that’s our cue” Katie said. “Our guests have arrived, and we really need
a shower”
 
 
Fleur finished her food feeling really tired. It had been a six-hour trip from
Beauxbatons to Hogwarts, on that dreadful carriage, and upon arriving, the
students had been shocked with the news that they would be sleeping on the
carriage.
Now sitting at the Ravenclaw table, she was annoyed that the only two boys not
acting like idiots around her were a blonde seventh year, who sat with an Asian
girl and a dark haired one who seems to be friends with the couple. She was not
fooled, the boy, who she learned was named Cedric Diggory, was affected, but
liked her girlfriend enough to pretend not to. As the other boy, Robert or
something, he appeared to be much more interested in the Slytherin table and
the Durmstrang committee. Weird lot that one, all boys, pretending to a
variable degree of success not to be impressed or even interested. Men…
The other girls quickly realized what was happening, and withdrew from her as
well, just like Beauxbatons, she was even trying to suppress herself.
So now Fleur was tired and feeling peeved.
At least Hogwarts was everything she had been told. The castle was enormous,
imposing. The lake was truly beautiful when they arrived, the sun setting
behind the forbidden forest. The entrance Hall was impressive, with all the
giant statues, and the ceiling of the great Hall was as beautiful as the
legends said. Fleur couldn't help but find the entirety of the castle a little
cold. Beautiful, but somewhat oppressive.
After the school delegations were presented, with her giving her better fake
smile (the same one she uses to give at the political parties at Delacour
manor) the Beauxbatons students were sat down at the Ravenclaw table. How she
wished it had been the Gryffindor's. Then an actually pleasant dinner was
served. The elves had prepared a variety of plates, typical from all the three
involved schools but it went all downhill from there.
The Goblet of Fire was presented, and as is common with many of those ancient
magical items, it was less impressive than the legends made believe. Headmaster
Dumbledore proceeded to present the tournament staff, starting with the
ministry officials. Fleur didn't pay much attention, she barely hide her
disgust when the small toad like woman with terrible fashion sense was
presented, then he moved to present madam Maxine and the Durmstrang headmaster
and finished explaining the tournament participation rules. After that all
students were liberated to interact or go back to their common rooms.
The two Ravenclaw girls in front of her simply stood and moved to another place
on the table, Fleur sighed.
“Come on little bird” Regine said coming closer to her. “It is not that bad…”
Fleur looked at her with a smirk.
“Here, let me do something to cheer you up”
“And what would that be?”
Let's meet my cousin” Regine said standing. Fleur promptly understood, and
followed her to the Gryffindor table.
“Fleur, this is my cousin, Angelina Johnson” Regine said in English, gesturing
at a tall, athletic girl, probably their own age, with a wide smile.
“it 'ez a great pleasure finally meeting you” Fleur said politely, giving the
tall girl a kiss on the check.
“Likewise, Reg has told me many good things about you, here, let me introduce
you to my friends.” She gave her a knowing smile that made the French girl
blush.
Around the table, Fleur notice the boys looking at her again. Even suppressing
the allure, it wasn’t hard to notice how they were affected, most went
instantly silent, making the girls aware that something was happening. A red
haired boy some places up front seemed particularly affect, looking at her with
dazed eyes. “Not again…” she thought.
Angelina rolled her eyes and said. “This silent git over here is my boyfriend
Fred, and the other one is obviously his brother George, congratulations, you
managed to shut then up, Alicia and I are trying to do this for a year now” she
said with no anger in her voice, pointing to the other girl on the left of the
twin brothers, “this is Katie” she moved along, pointing at a beautiful black
haired girl laughing at yet another silent boy, but this one was looking down
at the table. “The other girl is called Hermione” she said in a really low
voice as if trying not to get attention. Hermione got her eyes up and smiled at
her, there was Harry's best friend, the one he talked about with great care on
his letters. “And there, in the middle of then” Angelina said in her ear. But
Fleur almost didn't hear, there, between Katie and Hermione, trying to get
Neville's attention, apparently unaffected by her allure, with the black messy
hair, was “‘Arry…” she said.
Hearing his name, Harry moves his eyes from Neville and looked at her. He took
a deep breath and stand quickly.
“Fleur…”.he said with a big smile.
For a second, Fleur lost the control over her allure, the effect was so strong
that even some of the girls were affected, Neville actually got up and leave
quickly, the other red haired boy started opening and closing his mouth. But
Harry didn't even flinch, his smile stayed the same.
Fleur got hold of herself.
There, in front of her, appearing to look at her soul, were the wolf's eyes.
Her dreams materialized in front of her.
With a quick movement she embraced him and felt immense relieved when he
embraced her back.
***** Chapter 6 *****
Chapter Summary
     The goblet speaks
AN: I don't own Harry Potter, that is just for fun
thanks to my betas AWR and Master42, also thanx to my editor, you all have been
incredibly helpful !!
Thanx for reading!
 
Chaopter 06
Fleur looked at herself in the full body mirror she had transfigured on the
wall.
“You know you’re still drop dead gorgeous, right?” Regine said as she entered
the room she was sharing with the veela in the Beauxbatons carriage. Fresh out
of the bath, a towel over her head. “But it's good to know you are human like
the rest of us.”
Fleur was indeed a sight to behold, dressed only in white lace panties, perfect
fit on her round bum. Her breasts perfectly balanced her figure, with small
pink nipples, the same color as her lips, and long legs with perfect skin.
“What do you mean by that?” She looked curiously to Regine, who grinned at her,
drying her own curly black hair.
“Let me see… you meet a cute guy that is totally unaffected by your allure,
said guy happens to be no less than Harry Potter, whom by the way, you came all
the way from France to see… I guess you are feeling just a little insecure,
like us mortals who have to put some work to look good…” a pillow hit her in
the face before she finished.
“Bint” Fleur said with a smile. “He is just a friend.”
“Uhum… I wish I had a frieeeend like that.”
“He is almost two years younger than me…”
“And that is a problem because? If even half the stories are true, he has seen
and lived more than most grown men ever will. There was something in his eyes…
and the way you keep touching him…” Regine said with a smile.
“I didn't!”
“You didn't even realize, did you? How cute! So much for your veela heart
breaker fame.”
Fleur looked thoughtful. She sat on the bed, besides Regine. “I don't know. I
came here to compete, and…”
“Yes, but why can't you enjoy being with some guy who will not be hormone crazy
all over you, even if just a friend? And I am not talking about only him. We
had some great conversation yesterday, that other girl, Hermione I think, she
is a very smart witch, and so is Harry. They talked with us without holding any
prejudice. You need it, before you become a bitter old bint.” Fleur slapped her
in the arm. “I am not saying to pursue romance or anything, just not to be the
cold Fleur of the past but be open to it. And girl, you really seemed to enjoy
that hug!”
Fleur slapped her arm again, giggling.
She really did enjoy that embrace...
…
 
Hermione was lying on her stomach, on her bed at Gryffindor tower, recounting
the day’s events.
“We finally met Fleur” she thought, “and not only is she intelligent, educated
and understood Harry, she had to be a bloody Victoria’s Secret model! And
what's up with Katie, she looked happy, she even gave her seat next to Harry
for her!”
She buried her face in the soft pillow. “Come on Hermione Granger, you are not
like that! You are a strong independent woman, with objectives and plans!! You
are going to be the founder of the first magical feminist group and change the
magical world!”
“But... I am also in love and those things do not need to be mutually
exclusive. Wait... Am I in love?”
No one could see, but Hermione bit her lip. “Yes, I am in love with Harry
Potter, the most troubled, humble and caring guy I ever met. Man, he would love
to listen to the Descendants”, she thought with a smile, imagining Harry with
her, listening to muggle music, talking, drinking, far away from Dark lords,
politicians and fan girls. Her hips started moving almost by themselves. “But
Katie and Fleur are stunning…” her mind drifted, again imagining Harry with the
other girls. Her hips moving more forcefully against the sheets. “Goodness,
when did I become such horny girl?”
Images of Harry with the other girls started running through her mind. She
could see Harry holding Fleur and giving her a true deep and wet French kiss,
his hands running over her body while their tongues danced right in the middle
of the Great Hall. Hermione's own hands traveled slowly over her body, her hips
moving against the sheets. In her imagination, she pictured Harry's hands under
Katie's skirt, moving in and out, the girl’s juices flowing down her thighs,
making a mess on Harry’s fingers. The bushy haired witch let out a soft moan as
her hands entered her sleeping shorts, touching her own center. “I am a horny
and perverted little girl…” She could feel the moisture on her inner lips as
she imagined Fleur taking Harry into her mouth, swallowing his manhood again
and again. Harry would look across the Gryffindor table at her with lust in his
eye. She gathered her own juices on her fingers and moved to make small circles
against her clit, moving her hips at the same time. The images kept running in
her mind, Harry taking Fleur and Katie in the great Hall. Her movements and
breathing getting faster, and as she felt close to her climax did she imagine
her friend taking her, bending her over the table, as the other girls watched,
smiling with acceptance as Harry’s member slid inside her, making her scream in
ecstasy. She had to bite her pillow to avoid screaming her best friend's name
as she fell into her orgasm.
Panting, Hermione turned on her back. “Good, with that out of the way for now,
I can concentrate on real problems”. With that reassuring though, she finally
gets to sleep.
…
 
In the fifth-year boy’s dorm, on the other side of the tower, Harry couldn't
sleep either. His mind was racing, trying to make sense of his feelings.
The night had been great, even magical in a sense. He along with Fleur,
Hermione, Katie, Angelina and Regine, plus Alicia and the twins had stayed up
talking until curfew. They talked about Hogwarts and learnt about Beauxbatons,
about Victor Krum and quidditch, Hermione told about her vacations to the
Riviera and spoke with the French witches in their native language, much to
everyone’s surprise. For a moment Harry could forget about the lycanthropy,
Voldemort, Malfoy or the Wizengamot. Hogwarts once more felt like home, like it
had back in first year. Even Hermione let her usual stiffness go and accepted
some of the twins’ jokes. Harry noticed that Fleur's effect over them
diminished as time passed. Later, as they were walking back to the tower,
Hermione told him that Fleur was probably part veela, and explained a little
about the allure. Interestingly, other than feeling a slight warmth in his
belly, Harry didn't feel the compulsion Hermione described as the effect of the
veela magic.
But there was something else, much subtler, but powerful, even if he didn't
know exactly what it was. When he felt Fleur’s lily scent in person, it was
like a switch had turn on his head. Every time she touched him (and there was a
lot of touching, hands, shoulders, legs, he suspected she didn't even notice
it) Harry felt something strange; he couldn't put his finger on exactly what it
was. The best way he could describe it was an intense sense of nostalgia, like
he really missed somewhere he had never gone. Katie and Hermione noticed
something, but while his best friend just bit her lip, Katie smiled wide every
time Fleur touched him. He thought for a moment he would never stop blushing,
and concluded that Katie was trying to embarrass him to death.
What was happening… he could understand at some level why Hermione, his best
friend, first kiss, first platonic love and Katie, his partner and lover in his
new life, made him feel that way. But why Fleur? Sure, they had many things in
common. Was that the reason he felt like he’s known her since… forever?
“Maybe I am over thinking it; maybe I should just enjoy the ride, like Katie
said.”
Thinking about it, Harry finally got to sleep.
…
 
Some hours later, in France, at the Delacour manor, a goblin dressed in a fancy
styled suit and a briefcase arrived through the floo in the studio. Behind him
was a pale man with deep blue eyes and midnight black hair. Apolline, Jacques,
Sirius and Remus all got up as soon as the short dignitary entered the room.
Sirius watched the black eyes of the creature scan the room, stopping a bit
longer over him. Then with a smile full of sharp teeth he said. “Good morning
gentleman and milady. I am the requested Gringotts’s representative. You may
call me Grimpod.”
“Good morning mister Grimpod” Jacques said with a formal voice, “hello Anders,”
he greeted the Greengrass patriarch with a soft smile. “Please everyone, have a
seat.” As he gestured to the chairs in front of his big table. “Grimpod, thank
you for helping us in this dangerous ordeal. May I offer you a beverage?”
“No thanks required Mr. Delacour. Actually, I should be the one thanking you
for bringing some terrible irregularities to light.” You and Mr. Greengrass are
expending significant capital to find those dirty files, you don't need to be
thanking me.
The goblin silently placed his briefcase on the table, opened and produced some
parchments and a blood quill. He aligned all of them perfectly in front of
Jacques Delacour, but moved to face Sirius.
“Now… Mr. Black. Much of what you told us is true. The boy truly is in some
sort of bureaucratic limbo. Most of his papers, other than his birth
certificate, and his parent’s obituaries could not be found. We could not even
determine who was supposed to be his legal magical representatives. By default,
in this situation, this obligation falls to the school’s headmaster. It seems
he has been using this unusual legal loophole to gain access, even though it is
limited, to the family vaults.”
“Who was the ministry official responsible for his case at the time of the…
tragedy?” Apolline asked.
“A former secretary, now director of the disciplinary department, Dolores
Umbridge.”
“Now, it is only because of those irregularities and Mr. Delacour’s influence
that we were willing, together with some friends at the ministry to move
through with this. Understand Mr. Black, if what you are saying is not true,
and you in fact are a convicted criminal, you are sending yourself back to
Azkaban, and probably all the other wizards in this room with you. But, if it
is true, and no trial was made, then there will be no magical records about it,
and by signing this, not only will you get what you want, but will also have a
legal base to reopen your case. Are you sure you want to proceed?”
“Absolutely, they stole thirteen years of my life!”
“Then, Mr. Black, please sign these papers, and all will be done.”
Sirius took the blood quill, read the documents, and with a smirk signed.
Silence fell in the room, all the occupants tensed, minus the goblin, who
smiled. Suddenly, a golden light flared up from Sirius's signature, then the
piece of parchment floated up in the air and copied itself. One of the copies
disappeared in a small burst of green flames. The other flew into Sirius's
hand.
“Congratulations Lord Black” the goblin said, closing his briefcase. “You have
just adopted Harry Potter.”
…
 
Fleur stepped out if the carriage, looking at the imposing castle in front of
her. She woke feeling a lot lighter, the memories of the previous night
bringing a smile to her face. She turned around and called, “come on Gabby, I
want to put my name in the Goblet before breakfast.” The younger French girl
came out of the carriage jumping and giggling. Regine followed along after her.
Gabrielle was full of energy, looking at everything with curiosity.
“I can't wait to taste the sausages” she said with a smile, and Fleur suspect
it was only to upset her, Gabby knew her sister was having a hard time with
English food. “Hey Fleur, do I look good? Do you think Harry will find me
pretty?”
She did look radiant in her informal school clothes. Fleur rolled her eyes. “I
am sure he will find you… cute.” Regine laughed, and Gabby showed her tongue.
As they entered the great Hall, Fleur saw Harry, Hermione, Katie, and a red-
haired girl she didn't know, but looked remarkable like the twins, waiting for
her. Harry was in a happy conversation with the two older girls, and the
younger saw the French witches approaching. “Does he even notice he is always
surrounded by girls” Regine asked in a low, almost evil tone.
Harry looked at them with a radiant smile. “Good morning Fleur, Regine. We
thought about accompanying you to breakfast, and maybe giving you a tour
through the grounds.”
“That sounds great 'Arry, but first will you accompany me to the Goblet? I
should put my name in there.”
“Sure thing, Fred and George are there putting their own in. But before that,
who is this beautiful lady behind you?”
Fleur noticed Gabby almost hiding behind her. All that bravado and energy, and
she gets shy now, she thought. “This is my little sister, Gabby, but be
careful, she’s a dangerous fangirl!”
“Heeey, what are you telling him about me!” She asked in French. “'ello 'Arry.
English zis not good”
“Don't worry, it is a pleasure! I hope we can be friends, and this is Hermione,
Katie and Ginny.” Fleur notice that he talked to her like he talked to anyone,
not patronizing because of her age.
“I like him!!” Gabby said in French, blushing.
At that, the strange group started moving to the Goblet, talking about
breakfast. Fleur started noticing the other student’s looks, and started
closing in on herself, her good mood draining away, until she realized those
looks weren't exactly for her, but for Harry. Some looked in admiration, others
in disgust, many looked fearful. Fleur could see Harry trying to ignore it,
while he and Hermione talked with Gabby about the statues.
They arrive at the entrance to the Great Hall where the Goblet was placed. The
goblet’s fire radiating a blue light on the people surrounding it that were
watching the contestants present their names. In a circle on the ground, runes
were inscribed, shining with magic and preventing the underage students from
participating. Some Gryffindor third years were cheering as the Weasley twins
put in their names.
“Wish me luck” Fleur said. She was surprised when Harry reached for her hand
and confidently said. “You will get it.” For some reason she didn't want to let
go of his hand.
She proudly walked to the pile of parchment and signed one with the blood
quill. Then entered the runic circle and put the parchment into the fire. The
flames engulfed it and launched a bright blue light, accepting her inscription.
She came back smiling, and then Regine did the same. Some other Beauxbatons
students also entered their names into the Goblet, while also giving Fleur an
angry look. She sighed and gave them a smirk. Typical insecure bitches, she
thought.
Then she heard a high-pitched irritating voice behind her. “What an entourage
Potty, a blood traitor, a mudblood and now a half-breed? If you sink any lower,
you will be sleeping in the barn with your giant friend!” Fleur turned to see a
slim, greasy blonde boy with a nose in bandages followed by two other bigger
boys giving them a mocking look of disgust.
Fleur was angry, how could someone be so low, how can someone say such
disgusting things? To her and her sister! She could feel the heat building up
on her hands as the veela nature started getting the better of her. She was
about to say something, when Harry walked in front of her and as she looked at
him, she could see the wolf's eyes again. There was no mistake this time. Some
people around then took a step back. Hermione held his hand. Appearing to be
afraid.
Harry took another step forward. “Really Malfoy,” he said in a low, even tone
that was even more scary than if he had shouted. “Racial slurs coming from a
coward whose only company are two inbred grimlocks, who can't even cast a
stunner?” Harry took some more steps towards them. “Any of these witches are
miles better than you any day, so much for blood superiority.” Fleur could
“see” his aura now. The wolf was there. Hermione was biting her lips. She could
hear Katie whispering “control it… protect the pack…”. There was something
happening that she didn't understand.
Harry was very close to them now. “I can see your nose is still in the wrong
place. If you say anything to any of my friends again, I will help you fix it
the same way I messed with it before”. Everyone tensed as hands were going to
wands.
“You know you can't handle him blondie". Fleur and the otter students turned to
see the scary professor with a fake eye approaching. “So why don’t you go run
to your daddy. The rest of you, move along. You too Potter, but watch your back
because that one is sneaky.”
Fleur touched Harry's hand, and his aura subsided.
He looked at her with a guilty look. “I am sorry, I know none of you need my
clumsy protection, but I couldn't stand it”
“It’s OK 'Arry. He's just a li’ee boy. Let's go eat something.” She smiled at
him. Fleur looked at Hermione's relieved face and realized she was not afraid
of the blond boy, she was afraid of what Harry could do to him.
…
Daphne watched the scene that unfolded in front of her with fascination and
excitement. She saw Harry intimidating the monster that tried to attack both
her and her sister with ease. She saw the fear in Malfoy's eyes. And rejoiced
in it.
Thinking coldly though, it was not a smart move on Harry's part, unless he
wanted to exert power through fear, and she firmly believed he didn't, that was
not him. That was the reason she wanted to help him, he was different from the
pureblood animals like Malfoy.
But looking at the fear in Malfoy's eyes, she saw an opportunity to leverage
the situation, and protect her and Astoria, and she was going to grab it. She
waited until Malfoy entered the Great Hall followed by Harry and his group a
couple minutes later.
As her sister passed by her, she grabbed her arm and whispered, “Tory, you are
going to enter the hall and sit next to Tracy, as close as possible. Sit on the
opposite side of Malfoy and wait for me.”
Astoria nodded and did just that. Daphne waited a couple more minutes, took a
deep breath, straightened her hair and walk into the great Hall alone. She
stopped at the big open doors and wait until some of the Slytherin eyes were on
her, specifically Draco Malfoy.
When she was sure he was looking, Daphne walked straight toward the Gryffindor
table and touched Harry on the shoulder. She noticed that the boy seemed to be
waiting for her, as she saw no surprise in his eyes, at least until she kissed
him. A quick, chaste kiss, but enough to send the great Hall into silence.
Before she lifted her head, she whispered in his ear. “Walk with me to the
Slytherin table” Harry seemed to promptly understand and did as he was asked.
Daphne could see the looks of surprise on the faces of the other witches around
the table, and let out a smile.
Harry walked with her to the Slytherin table to the place saved by Astoria in
front of Draco Malfoy. Daphne’s face remained cold as ice the entire time. She
sat down as Harry stood behind her with a hand on her shoulder looking directly
at Malfoy. The message was clear. She was under his protection.
After a couple seconds, he came back to Gryffindor's table looked at the girls
and left the Hall.
“I should have really kissed him …” Daphne thought as she watched him leave.
…
 
“'Ermione, what just happened?” Fleur asked in French. “Is that 'Arry’s
girlfriend? Why did he leave?”
Hermione sighed. So typical of Harry to leave and let her do the explaining.
“That was someone who is helping us, and no, she is not his girlfriend at least
as far as I know, he doesn't have one. Daphne is a friend who is in a dangerous
situation.” Hermione then explained about the attack on Daphne's sister and how
Harry save her and the plans to help Daphne gain control of Slytherin house
while she helps Harry learn how to use any political power he may have. “Malfoy
is getting ever bolder and dangerous; I can't even imagine what he would have
done to Astoria. There is a divide in Slytherin, and today Daphne made him
publicly take a side. I figure that if you want to be his friend, you need to
know he has a talent to paint himself into some pretty dangerous corners.”
“Why does 'Arry need someone to teach him that, why doesn't his magical
guardian do that?” Fleur asked, a little shocked by situation.
“Fleur, he didn't even know about the magical world until he was eleven.” Fleur
looked at her with a shocked expression.
“Mon dieu, that explains so much…” the French witch whispered.
“And every year at Hogwarts since the first one was terrible for him… he really
thought that with the tournament, he could have some time to learn this year.”
Hermione studied Fleur's expression. She saw some genuine concern there.
“So, why did he run away?”
Hermione bit her lip. “That is the question; Harry is not one to run. Sorry, I
need to go look for him.” she said as she got up. She quickly ran to the
Gryffindor tower, and after making sure no one was paying attention to her,
entered the fifth-year boy’s dorm and secured the marauder's map. It was a good
thing that Harry let her know where he kept both the map and his cloak.
Hermione scanned the map for a minute, before finding him outside at the edge
of the forest. He was not moving, good.
“Why do you always do this Harry” she thought to herself as she got after him.
“Keep the feelings inside for yourself.”
She walked quickly through the grounds, passing Hagrid's hut, and saw him
sitting on a tree trunk with his back to her.
“Hi Hermione” he said without looking at her. “Funny how now I always know who
is coming behind me…” he turned to her with a sad smile. “Before you ask, I
know the full moon is a couple weeks away, but I can smell you…”
She sat down on his side.
“You smell good Mione…” he whispered.
They stayed there, in silence, just enjoying each other's presence for a time.
“Harry, why did you leave like that? Fleur was confused… and you got me
worried.”
He buried his face on his hands.
“Bloody hell, one day in, and she must already think I’m a freak. She wouldn't
be too far off anyway…”
Hermione got closer to Harry and wrapped her arms around his shoulder. “You are
not a freak Harry… you are my… best friend…” she whispered.
“I am a monster Mione… you were right, that day in the field… everything you
said. I am dangerous.” he looked at her, ashamed. “I saw the way you looked at
me when Malfoy started talking shit…”
“Oh Harry, I am sorry, I…”
“Don't be, you are right, you have no idea what was going on in my mind that
time… and again at the table… when I remembered what he was doing to Astoria… I
wanted… I wanted… to break… him… and not as figure of speech… I wanted to rip
his body apart, and I was ready to do it, that is why I had to leave.”
“But you didn't, you controlled yourself, and you did it to protect us.”
“Only because you and Fleur were there.” He blushed. “You two… pulled me back,
but what will happen the day you are not there with me? I can't even get help
from the bloody professors, and Remus is somewhere in France!”
Hermione put both hands on his shoulder and turned him to herself. Harry’s eyes
were full of guilt, anger, and... Something else…
“Harry, I will never leave you. We are going to get past this together, as
always! This is not a hundred dementors!!”
“I don't know if that is true anymore! No, not because of you! Hermione, the
other things you said are also happening, and I am feeling awful, I am feeling
dirty!” He moved away from her a little. He was blushing furiously now.
Hermione looked at him confused, but understood a second later. “The way I feel
when I look at you, when I smell your scent” now it was Hermione’s turn to
blush. She wanted to say something, but let him finish instead. He needed to
vent. “I thought it would take years, damn, maybe this is just the beginning,
what if it gets worse. Will I become more dangerous? It’s not even all the
girls! Damn, I am not like that!” At this point, he had stood up and was
breathing rapidly. “Sorry.”
“Please don't, Daphne is right, stop apologizing.” He blushed again, like a
little boy. “I am also alarmed by the speed things are happening Harry. But
when were you ever normal? Maybe your magical ability is too strong, maybe it’s
all the emotions you keep locked inside feeding it. Maybe it’s your connection
with Voldemort…”
“You think…"
“I don't know Harry, I am just conjecturing. You know I just pretend, right?
That I don't really know it all.”
He gave her a smile.
“What does Katie say?” Hermione asked. “I believe she lived with it for some
time.”
“How did…” Hermione raised an eyebrow. “Of course, you know... she is trying to
help me. She said I should not fight against it, but to use it to protect the
pack or something…”
“You said it’s not all the girls? What do you mean by that?” Harry blushed
furiously again and remained silence. “Harry, you can trust me… please”
“I… I… I notice the other girls of course” he said in no more than a whisper.
“But I discovered that what really messes with me is … the scent… and only a
few scents really got me…” he couldn't finish.
“Who?” Hermione asked and immediately though. “Why am I asking this?”
“Katie, Daphne, Fleur, I could feel her scent even in the letters, and… you…”
She blushed. They stayed in silence for some time. Harry couldn't see to look
at her.
She got up. “Harry, look at me…Harry, I… I don't mind it. I think… I even like
it… and I know for a fact Katie likes it… Harry, we will get through this,
together.” She said and hugged him, trying to convey as much feeling as she
could to him. The girl felt relieved and happy when he returned the affection.
“Thank you, I am feeling better…”
“Do you want to stay here a little more?”
“Yeah, the forest's smells help me to calm down…” They both leaned back against
the tree trunk, holding hands.
Hermione's mind started running, making mental notes and calculations…
…
 
Apolline Delacour poured the Dom Perignon champagne into the six crystal
glasses. The half veela and her husband where sitting in the living room,
accompanied by Sirius Black, Remus Lupin and Anders and Sarah Greengrass. Each
one of them picked up one of the glasses.
“To the new generation, may they achieve what we could not” as she raised her
glass in a toast. “May they set the world on fire!”
The other raised their glasses. “To the new father!” Jacques congratulated.
“To the new ministry of magic!” Remus and Sirius finished, and they all drank
the champagne.
“Exquisite taste, my dear Jacques” complimented Anders. “Once we start the
process to give Sirius a new trial, I will move to block Narcisa’s access to
the Black assets on the Wizengamot. If Harry is correct, and I believe he is,
when Voldemort indeed returns, that will be a great blow on his finances.”
“I can't believe Harry doesn't know anything about his family or us…” Sarah
Greengrass said sadly.
“That is in part my fault.” Remus sighed. “No Sirius, it is. I was so
devastated when the things happened, Michel had died only a week before, I was
so desperate that I believed everything Dumbledore said. I believed when he
said Harry was safe with the Delacours. When I discovered he was not here, I
broke…”
“We all did Remus…” Apolline said, holding his hand.
“I just hope our kids understand” said Sirius. “Ultimately, we are doing the
same thing as the old fart, deciding part of their destinies for them, removing
their choices… I just hope they don't hate us in the end…”
...
“And the champion for Beauxbatons” headmaster Dumbledore announced with his
voice magically amplified. “Is Fleur Delacour!”
Fleur proudly stood up. Applause and cheering all around her, even the girls
who usually hate her got caught up in the celebration. “Fake bitches.” She
thought with a smile. She knew half of them would be cheering for the pretty
Hogwarts's champion tomorrow. Regine gave her a hug and, as Fleur moved to the
champions room, she could hear the cat calls of some male students. She stood
even prouder.
Then, amongst the students she saw Harry's face. He was calm and smiling a
reassuring smile. She hoped his eyes could see her, not the veela, not the
champion, but Fleur, as she could see only Harry. “Come on Fleur, you have been
chosen. He is your young friend now, concentrate on the tournament ahead!”
She entered the room to see the other two champions. Victor Krum stood in the
corner; arms crossed over his chest, and only gave her a nod. She answered in
kind. “Is he so insecure that he has to keep this facade all the time?” She
thought and smiled, “men can be so fragile.”
“Congratulations Ms Delacour” Cedric Diggory said, extending his hand. She
admired his will power fighting the allure so close to her. His girlfriend was
a luck girl.
“Likewise, mizer Diggory, I see ‘ogwarts is well represented.”
“Here I am with a chance to prove to myself that I am capable. The school, the
purebloods, all that people that doubt me will see! What a bravado, I am
terrified!!” she tough to herself.
Fleur then noticed that the noise outside stopped. Something was wrong. She
barely could hear the headmaster. Cedric and Victor noticed it too. Fleur
tensed.
The door opened, and Harry Potter walked into the room looking at the floor.
“'Arry? It's everything alright? They need us?” Harry looked at her, and she
saw fear and anger in his eyes.
“I am so sorry Fleur…” he whispered, but she could hear.
“Non…”
...
The door slammed open, Dumbledore, Madam Maxine, Karkaroff and the ministry
officials entered the room. With intensity in his eyes, Albus Dumbledore holds
Harry's shoulders with both hands and asked.
“Did you put your name on the Goblet of Fire?
“No sir!!”
“What zis ze meaning of zis…
“Cheated of course. The boy…”
“Let’s all calm down. If Harry…
“Hogwarts is going to have an unfair…”
“Is not legally of age…”
“How did you manage boy…”
“Let me see your wand boy!!”
“Cheaters, both of you!!”
“Give it to me, let's see the last spells…
“He must compete; it is a magic contract…”
“Go stand over there Harry…”
“How could he!!!”
“... The magical wards…”
“Just a li’ee boy!”
“Zis is unacceptable!!”
“Could not stand to not be the center of attention, Potter?”
“I should have imagined…”
Fleur's eyes hurt him the most; it was her silence that brought Harry to the
edge.
“SHUT UP!! SHUT UP! He screamed almost in pain. “I didn't put my name in it! I
didn't even want to compete! I just wanted to be left alone, someone is trying
to kill me, and no one cares!”
Harry stormed to the door, but Dumbledore held his arm. “Harry please listen…”
“Dangerous…” the voice on Harry's mind whispered.
“Let go off me Sir…” the last was more of a growling than a word, Harry saw the
spark of fear in his eyes, and the headmaster released him.
Harry got out of the room, the other students looking at him in confusion and
disapproval. Harry passed through them, trying to get out of there as fast as
he could. People moved out of the way for him; he barely registered Hermione's
and Katie's voice calling for him. Until Ron appeared in front of him.
“Couldn't keep to yourself Harry?” Ron said with gritted teeth, anger and
jealousy in his eyes. “You must have everything? Can't you just step aside,
“mate”?”
Harry was shocked. He couldn't believe his friend was saying that.
“Prey…”
Harry snapped, his hands flew to Ron's neck and shoved him into the wall. Ron
lost his breath with the impact. His feet were not touching the ground.
“Aaaargh!! How could you!”
“HARRY!” Hermione's voice called him back, he saw the fear on Ron's eyes and
let him go.
He turned and looked at Hermione and Katie, before turning and running. The
wolf was too close now. He could feel it lurking, wanting out.
Harry ran out of the great Hall, through the doors, he could feel the tears
starting to burn his eyes. He kept running, maybe he could outrun everything…
He ran until he reached the edge of the lake. His feet went into the water and
he screamed.
“AAAARGH!!! WHY!!!
He turned to the castle, his heart was heavy, he felt like his head was about
to explode.
“WHY IS THIS HAPPENING!! WHY DO YOU WANT TO KILL ME!!! WHY!” The water started
boiling and swirling around his feet as he turned and cursed the castle.
“WHY DO YOU HATE ME SO MUCH!” The surrounding water started splashing in a
swirl, the stones being pushed away from him. “I HATE YOU, I HATE YOU! He
dropped to his knees. “I hate you… why …” he started sobbing violently, the
tears flowing now.
Harry felt an embrace around him, he cried out loud, letting himself go with
the smell of lilies and vanilla. He let himself go into the embrace. “I am
sorry Fleur, I am so sorry…”
***** Chapter 7 *****
AN:I don't own Harry Potter, just playing…
Thanx to my betas AWR and Master42, also a big thank you to my editor. I know
first chapter are rough, i writed them more than four months ago and i am
learning a lot with that experience, but as i got time and help, i am coming
back and editing them too!
Thanx for reading, hope you have fun!
Chapter 07
Fleur didn't know what to do, all the excitement, all the pride, all the
anticipation was gone now that all she held the broken young man in her arms.
His aura had been so powerful, so damaged, that she could feel his pain, how he
felt betrayed and lost. She could barely handle the emotions running through
her as Harry sobbed at her shoulder, and she knew he endured it every day.
The surge of magic had been so powerful that Harry was totally expended. When
the professors arrived, accompanying Hermione and Katie, the boy let out a deep
sigh and passed out, his body still hot to the touch from all the magical
energy that ran through it. Fleur noticed how sad he looked, even unconscious.
“My most sincere appreciation to you, mademoiselle Delacour” Dumbledore said as
he levitated Harry with a flick of his wand. “You conducted this situation with
all the grace and resolve we came to expect from someone of your position. Your
father would be proud. Now, I need to conduct Mister Potter to the hospital
ward for testing and rest, as this magical surge was indeed outstanding. But I
am sure he will actually feel a lot better after all that emotional relief.”
Fleur didn't know what to think about the patronizing tone of the headmaster.
Talking to her like an old fable book grandfather, filled her with suspicion
and she could see Hermione had a similar reaction. But there was nothing she
could do now, but watch Harry being taken away to the hospital wing.
Hermione turned to follow him, but Fleur held her by the arm.
“'Hermione, wait.” Fleur pleaded in a low voice. The younger witch bit her
lips, clearly worried. “I need to show you something…”
“Fleur… I am sorry, but Harry…”
“It is about him.”
Hermione sighed and followed the French witch to the carriage, she probably
knew there was nothing she could do now, besides letting the Matron do her job,
and wait for Harry to wake. Fleur took her to her room and with a wave of her
wand cast a drying spell on her clothes.
“Please 'Hermione, ‘have a seat.” Hermione sat down in one of the two beds in
the room, while Fleur went to her trunk to look for something. She came back
and sat at the brunette's side with a book on her hands. “I was planning to
show this to 'Harry first. But clearly something ‘as happened that Sirius,
Remus and my parents didn't tell me, or maybe they don't even know. 'Hermione,
I want to help, and I am sure you know why he is broken. I know you don't ‘have
any reason to trust me, so I want to show you this.”
Fleur handed her the photo book. Curiously Hermione opened it and the first
magical photo she saw was the one with the Delacours and the Potters at a
Christmas party. “This one is me.” the French which pointed to the beautiful
little girl smiling brightly, holding the younger baby’s hand. “And this one
is…”
“Harry…”
Hermione kept passing through the pages in awe, photo after photo of the
Delacours, the Potters, Sirius, Remus and some other family. “Those are the
Greengrass.” Fleur pointed noticing Hermione's curiosity. The witch was
astonished seeing the families on Yule, at the beach, dancing, and sometimes
with other families showing up. They were young and full of life. She smiled at
little Fleur playing with babies Harry and Daphne on the sand as a loving Lily
looked over them.
“That girl that kissed Harry today.” Hermione said to Fleur, who just looked at
her curiously. “Daphne Greengrass.”
Fleur smiled a sad and tired smile.
“That is why you wrote to Harry?”
“At first yes, I needed to know if he hated us, or if he even remembered us. It
seems ‘e doesn't even know about our families and I was confused. But then I
realized I really liked to talk to him, ‘e became somewhat of a true friend
along the way.”
Hermione closed the album and took a deep breath. “Right Fleur, this is going
take time, I need you to listen, and if you don't want anything to do with us I
will totally understand.” The French girl looked at her with resolve. “Harry
didn't know about the magical world until he was eleven…” Fleur had an
incredulous expression on her face.
For the next three hours, Fleur heard about all the events that had happened
while Harry and Hermione had lived at Hogwarts. The mostly peaceful first year,
when he found out about who he was and the philosopher stone, the second year,
with the heir of Slytherin and the Chamber of Secrets problems and how the
whole school suspected him. Fleur almost didn't believe the story with the
basilisk. Hermione told her about how scared she was for Ginny’s life. Then
came the third year, the dementors and Sirius Black and how Harry was forced to
relieve his parent’s deaths again and again. Hesitantly, Hermione told her
about Peter Pettigrew and Remus’s bite. At the end, Fleur was in tears thinking
about how all this affected him. That was the reason he didn't feel safe.
“Fleur,” Hermione continued almost in a whisper. “There are some things that
happened he never told me. Things that happened during the ten years he spent
with the Dursleys and I think are still happening at some level. He has this
annoying habit of keeping all the pain to himself.” Hermione was crying now.
“He has no help! I have asked the professors, even the headmaster.” Fleur
didn't know what to think of it, but she ended up holding Hermione in a hug.
“He tries to act like nothing's wrong. But sometimes I can see his light
fading. I thought Katie and I would be able to do it this year… we want to make
him understand that he needs us as much as we need him.”
“Such loyalty” Fleur thought.
“You are a smart witch ‘Hermione, why do you think someone would put Harry's
name in the Goblet?”
Hermione stopped sobbing and thought. “To make his death appear like an
accident. Goodness, that put all the competitors at risk too, you…”
“Yes, I thought so. Thank you for sharing all this with me Hermione. I can see
‘e has not been a boy for a long time. But I need to think, and you need to
rest. I will talk with you tomorrow.”
“Thank you for letting me cry on you, and sorry…” Hermione said, a little
ashamed. Fleur just smiled at her.
After Hermione left, Fleur laid back on her bed, tears in her eyes. She had
felt the connection with Harry, something in the back of her mind; like she had
found something she had missed but didn't even know existed. At first, she was
worried about him being two years younger, that he hated her and her family for
abandoning him. Knowing what she knew now, she felt how shallow she was being,
judging before knowing the facts, just like people did with her.
But was she brave enough to face that storm?
...
Albus Dumbledore watched as Dolores Umbridge sat heavily onto one of the less
than comfortable chairs in front of his big desk. All dressed in pink and
orange, she looked like a giant frog cupcake. The headmaster smiled at her.
“Good evening Dolores, May I offer you some lemon drops?"
“Cut out the chit chat headmaster, what is the reason you summoned me at this
dreadful hour, specifically after those heated events.” She said in her high
pitch voice without hiding her giggling.
Dumbledore closed his eyes, his head hurt; she had always been hard to handle,
specifically since that messy deal about Harry Potter's papers 14 years ago.
But she was too important of an inside agent at the ministry. Without her, many
of his own laws securing his power over Hogwarts would have never seen the
light; fortunately, her vision was always too narrow regarding blood status.
“Dolores my dear, May I ask why you thought it would a good idea to include
young Harry's name in the tournament? Should I remind you of how delicate our
situation can be?”
“I did it because from the moment I set foot on this school, I realized you had
completely lost control over him!” She said, her voice making Dumbledore's head
hurt even more. “His best friends are all muggleborn born or half-blooded, far
from what we had planned for him. And he is even consorting with a half-breed!
Delacour's little animal nonetheless! Your… desire for this boy has blinded
you! He no longer serves our objectives in bringing about the Greater Good.
Once he realizes his political status, he will undoubtedly hurt us!”
“Your little rant was indeed very elucidating about how your head works my
child.” the headmaster dragged the word, making clear who was in charge. “But
failed to answer my question.”
“The boy has outlived his purpose, but he is still famous, so why not give him
a glorious death in the tournament? And we can get Delacour's daughter as a
bonus. My sources on the French council are certain of his win tomorrow. Need I
remind you what that man really stands for?"
“I know very well what said man believes he stands for, Madam, must I remind
you that I faced men like him before you even walked these same school halls?
No Dolores, I think it’s pity to see such a beautiful and prodigious young
woman not living to her full potential, but can understand the need to remove
her, but it is imperative that the boy live through it.”
“And why is that? The little half-blood prat is being nothing but trouble, just
like his parents!”
“Dolores, the only thing that would make me happier than see the Potter line
washed out, is to bring said ancient line back to the rightful ways, bringing
them back towards the light. Although, that is not the reason. The boy has an
important part to play in events yet to come”
“You are blind by desire!”
“Dolores Umbridge” Dumbledore stood, and project his aura; the woman had
crossed all the limits of his patience, refusing to listen to reason. He knew
better, he was the greatest wizard alive and people would listen to him, like
it or not. “Must I remind you whom you are talking to? Who holds not only yours
but also Fudge’s and Bagman’s jobs in his hands? Get out of my office; I need
to ponder on what to do with this turn of events.”
Fearing the Headmaster’s rage, Dolores quickly got up and left the room,
leaving Albus Dumbledore to his plans.
...
Harry saw the enormous snake sliding to his side; he was getting carried in the
direction of an unknown manor like a baby by someone. The place looked old and
abandoned, the mold eating up the walls, the floor dirty with years of dust
layers. Once inside, he was laid on a big bed. Why was it so hard to move?
Then, he heard a serpentine like voice hissing. “Call for Narcisa and her
useless husband.” At this point Harry realized with a growing fear the voice
was his own. “They need to get the right ingredients; it needs to be ready in
time”
“Yes, my Lord" he heard, it was a voice that sent shivers up his spine. He woke
with a start just as he saw the traitor's face in front of him.
He was feeling dizzy, and could barely see without his glasses in the dark.
Madam Pomphrey came closer to him, waving her wand and said with a tired voice.
“Here we are again Harry; two months may be a record for you. Nah! Don't try to
get up; you are still weak Mr. Potter. Please take this potion and rest, my
trainee will assist you.”
“This is new.” Harry thought as a gentle pair of hands helped him take the
potion. Dizzy as he was, he barely recognized the blueberry scent.
“Daphne?” He whispered as he drifted back to sleep.
...
Ronald Weasley was walking alone through the grounds, heading for the quidditch
field after declining a game of Exploding Snap with Seamus. For the first time
he that he could recall, since starting Hogwarts, Ron wanted to be alone. He
was feeling angry. How could his so called best mate humiliate him like that?
And in front of the entire Gryffindor house? It was not enough for him to have
everything he wanted? He had money, fame, was probably shagging Katie and
Hermione and now had that French witch too? And what about Hermione, would she
ever talk to him again? He did nothing wrong! Not even his brothers were
talking to him now. Traitors, just after his ex-friend’s money and fame, he
thought.
“Tough day Weasley?” Ron heard the last voice he would want to right now. The
last thing he needed was a detention for breaking the little gits nose, again.
“Leave me the bloody hell alone Malfoy! Looking for another black eye?” He
turned to see the blond boy behind him, next him was a strange looking slender
woman wearing glasses and a notebook. She had a predatory smile on her face
that sent shivers down Ronald’s back.
“Cool down Weasley, I came in peace.”
Ron looked at him in disbelief.
“Tough business last night wasn’t it. Being attacked like that in front of the
whole school. Such a friend, this Potter, I knew it all along! I bring you an
opportunity for pay back.” Draco stated as he pointed to the strange woman
behind him. “My friend here wants to tell your side of the story. Maybe we can
even get some of the prestige of your family back. Purebloods stick together.”
The woman stepped forward before Ron could say anything and extended her hand.
“Hello Ronald, my name is Rita Skeeter.”
...
After breakfast, Katie was worried that Harry hadn't showed up, and she made
the quick trip to see him in the hospital wing. She found the boy laid in bed,
still sleeping, his scars covered by the blanket, looking almost peaceful.
Daphne was at his side, finishing the sorting of a lot of potions before taking
the rest of the day off.
“He is going to be okay.” The Slytherin said, approaching Katie, with a
reassuring smile almost never seen outside the hospital. “He is just drained. I
will look after him tonight…”
Katie looked at her with surprise. “Thank you…”
Daphne sat at her side, Katie found it weird to see so much emotion, so
different than the usual persona she presented to the school. She looked at
Harry with real caring, her scent betraying the girl’s real emotions. Katie
knew she was more worried than she showed. The ice queen was not really that
cold after all.
“So…” Daphne moved her ice grey gaze from the boy to Katie, looking like her
normal cold self now. But Katie knew better, the girl’s scent betrayed her
nervousness. “If what people are saying, you and Harry have been… intimate the
last few days…”
Katie gave her a knowing smile. Daphne rolled her eyes, and Katie caught a
different scent coming from her now.
“OK… so you have seen his scars...And he is also a little too thin, even if
fit, thank goodness for quidditch.”
“Not only quidditch…” Katie said remembering the stories he told her. “But yes,
I see your point.”
“Something happens to him during the summers. How can someone as famous and as
important as him get like that? Some of those scars are years old. How can his
magical guardian allow that?” Katie looked at Daphne, who had returned her gaze
to him, the tenderness back to her eyes.
“He is cute isn't he…” Katie said suddenly.
“What! Sorry… I mean… he is your boyfriend… and…” Katie laughed at the girl’s
sudden awkwardness.
“He is not my boyfriend, don't worry. I don't own him or anything, he is too
much for me to handle alone anyway…” both girls blushed at that. “Daphne, he is
special, not that boy who lived shit special… and the magical world has been
doing a crap job on him…” The Slytherin looked confused.
“Anyway.” Katie continued. “I need to find Hermione…”
“She came by earlier, with that French witch… said she would researching
magical exhaustion and emotional accidental magic in the library…”
“Thanks…” Katie got up and approached Harry’s ear, whispering to him, making
Daphne blush at the things she said to the young wizard, things she would do to
him when he woke up. “Remember Harry, protect the pack…” she finished with a
soft kiss on his cheek.
She winked at Daphne and left the hospital wing to look for Hermione. On the
way she thought about Fleur, and how she had handled Harry's outburst, how his
magic didn't hurt her as she approached and embraced him. Maybe she was wrong,
she thought his equal would be Hermione, but maybe it was the French witch.
Katie only knew that wasn't her position to take, she didn't like to lead.
As expected, Katie found Hermione in the library, alone at the back table.
“Hello Hermione…” Katie greeted as she approached and sat down on the chair in
front of the other witch.
“Hi Katie… did you stop by to see Harry?”
“Yea. Sleeping.”
“I think he will wake up tomorrow, a normal wizard would take a couple more
days, but you and I both know that is not the case.”
“About that… Hermione, I am also…”
“I know, I figured it out a couple days before you and Harry started doing
whatever it is that you have been doing… what? Smartest witch blab blab blab…”
both girls had a laugh.
“Hermione…” Katie thought on how to approach this, and decided to be the most
direct possible, Hermione would listen and understand, she hoped. “Harry needs
a pack… he is powerful, his Wolf is like nothing I ever seen, I am afraid it
may consume him if he is not helped… the last time something like that happened
with a powerful wizard, it was not pretty. You may know the stories about
Fenrir Greyback” Hermione nodded. “Let me assure you that what is known is only
the tip of his evil… Harry is different though… his protective instincts are
powerful. That is the way we can get to him, that we can help him. We have to
make him come to terms with his inner wolf and accept his pack…”
“He needs other werewolves?”
“A pack is not necessarily made of just werewolves, it’s more like and extended
family bound by love.”
“I didn't know werewolves had such a developed culture like that. But again,
they fail to teach many things to us here.” Hermione raised an eyebrow.
“We keep it away from other wizards, as they are not a paragon of tolerance as
you may have noticed.”
“I did. You seem to know a lot.”
“Family tradition.” the girl quickly answered and continued. “A pack shares the
emotional load of its members, and helps direct the instincts of the Alpha in
the right direction. It gives him propose and identity, a place to stay and a
place to be. The pack needs to guide the Alpha as much as they need him for
guidance…”
“Beautiful words…”
“Heh, my grandfather told me that when I was ten.”
“So, we need to find him a pack of some sort?”
“This kind of thing cannot be forced, and I understand Harry is fed up with
people deciding things for him.”
“So, there is nothing we can do?”
“Hermione, he has already chosen his pack…”
...
Fleur was irritated. She had little sleep and the people glaring at her were
not helping her mood. Harry was still asleep, and she was craving talking to
him. Damn these people looking! Who do they think they are? English people were
turning out to be ruder than she had ever imagined. One day in Scotland and her
life was already turned upside down. And the only one who cared was in a
hospital bed because some monster wanted to take control of his life. And she
hated being followed.
She stopped outside of the great Hall, the autumn wind moving through her hair,
she suddenly turned around with a swift movement only possible by years of
dueling practice and caught the glare of the red haired young girl from the day
before.
“It is not polite to follow otter people, little girl.” Fleur gave her an evil
look, in the hopes of the girl going away. To her surprise the girl didn't back
down as she expected, quite the contrary she step forward with a fierce
expression that amused the French witch.
“What did you do to Harry?” She asked in an accusatory tone, her voice full of
venom and jealousy.
That was it. To Fleur that was enough. She would not stand been accused of
hurting the only person of this forsaken school that cared for her. The person
she only tried to help, especially by a jealous little girl.
“And who are you little girl?” Fleur felt her veela nature taking over her
emotions. “Are you his girlfriend?”
The girl seemed startled by the question, Fleur felt even angrier at this,
people around them started looking and she could feel the warmth building up on
the point of her fingers.
“That’s what I thought, you are just a little stalker” the veela continued,
aiming to hurt now.” Tell me, you stalk Harry too?” Fleur was feeling like
something was burning inside her. She approached the girl and talked in a low
tone. “I didn't do anything to him. But when I do, girl, I assure you he is
going to like it!”
There were tears on the girl's face, but they were angry ones. With a decided
move the girl turned around and stomped away.
“Damn, you are an evil bitch” someone said in French. Fleur turned fuming to
look where the voice was. Regine was standing behind her, holding her hands in
the air. “She really got you angry, if I didn't know better, I would think she
had attacked Gabby.”
Fleur started to calm down. She regained control of her emotions and the fire
subsided. It was true; the only other times she got that angry was when someone
attacked her family. She was not one to lose control of her veela nature like
that.
“Poor girl.” Fleur said, a little sad. “She didn't deserve it…I don't know why
I got so upset…”
“Really? Well, damage is done. Come, let's find Gabby and grab some lunch.”
...
Harry woke in the dark but sensed familiar feeling sheets of the infirmary. His
vision was blurred, but the smell of blueberries let him know that he was not
alone. He felt around searching for his glasses and wand, but not finding them.
“Here”, He heard Daphne's voice as she gently placed the glasses on his face.
After a second the vision of her striking angular face and black midnight hair
focused in front of him. “Better?” She asked softly.
“Yes, a lot, thank you.” He said, suddenly very conscious of her proximity.
“What time is it?” He asked, glad that the dim light of the room concealed his
blushing face. She was sitting on his bed, beside him, using a white robe, much
like the one the matron used although looking much better. Her hands over her
lap as her straight hair ran over her shoulders and back.
“One in the Morning… you have been out the entire day, Hermione, Ginevra, Fleur
and Katie all came to see you. Katie said some really dirty things she was
going to do to you once you awoke,” She finished with a teasing smile that made
Harry blush even more, but with a silly smile on his face.
“Wow… I guess I outdid myself this time… wait, what are you doing here so
late?”
“I am apprenticing with madam Pomphrey, I want to be a healer like mom when I
finish school…” she answered with a kind look, totally different from the one
he had learned to expect from her. It made her even more beautiful, harry
thought.
“That is great, but I don't think you had to stay with me this late. I mean, I
really appreciate it, but I didn't expect that with your… fame.” “Great Potter,
put your foot in your mouth talking to the girl you crushed on since day one…”
he thought.
“My facade is a way to protect myself and my sister, Harry; here at the
hospital wing I don't need it…” she said before her voice turning cold again.
“But I can still hex you into oblivion.” she giggled, before turning serious to
him again. “I… I wanted to see you… you mutter in your sleep…”
“Sorry.” He said with shame.
“Some of the things you said are really scary…” she said with a shiver.
“especially about Tom and Vernon, whoever they are… also Harry, I am sorry…”
“Why?” Harry felt he cannot be more ashamed than he already was.
She got a little closer to him, her dark straight hair falling over her
shoulders and breasts and Harry silent cursed both his hormones and the wolf.
Her scent was intoxicating, and he hope she didn't notice his arousal.
“I always thought you had forsaken your lineage because you were weak,” she
said looking deep into his emerald eyes, confusion and guilt on her face. “That
you don't acted proud of who you or your parents were because you didn't like
the wizard blood in you. But I can see now it is a lot more complicated than
that, right?” He gulped. “Seems like someone beat the pride out of you…”
“You could say that…” He answered after a while, turning away in shame from her
gaze. “I want to change Daphne. I really do… but every time I think I can, some
shit brings me back to the mud.” He was becoming angry again now. “I don't even
know who I am anymore. Or who I want to be!” his hands became closed in fists.
She placed her hands softly on Harry's own.
“Sorry.” He said. “It’s not fair dumping that on you, we barely know each
other, even though I want to change that?”
“There are the apologies again, it really doesn't suit you Harry.” She said in
a commanding tone. “Did you know we meet before Hogwarts?” He looked at her
with confusion. “Our parents were good friends. My mother went to school with
yours, and our fathers were political allies. I spent my first Yule at your
parent’s house.”
“Wow… why does everyone know more about my family than I do?”
“That, Mister Potter, is a really good question. It seems like someone wanted
to keep you in the dark…”
“I don't know what to do.” He buried his head on the pillow behind him, looking
at the ceiling.
She leaned closer to him. “I know two Harry Potters.” He could feel her breath,
her blueberry scent driving him mad. “One is a shy boy, who keeps apologizing
for things out of his control and makes me angry…” Her thumbs started making
circle motions on his hands. “The other devised a plan to teach people how to
defend themselves, saved my sister from a monster and was not afraid to make a
stand in front of the Slytherin table, that one is not a boy, that one I have
had a crush since the second year... that one I could fall for…”
She leaned and gave him a kiss, her smell inebriated him, and without thinking
he kissed her back. She parted her mouth as an invitation, and his tongue met
hers. It was different from Katie. he felt like his whole body responded to it,
as their tongues caressed each other, their lips softly touching. It was deep,
sensual, as each one took time to explore the other’s mouth, her taste driving
Harry’s mind blank.
When they parted, she was still holding his hand with force, taking quick
breaths.
“Sorry…” she said, blushing.
“You lecture me about apologizing and then say you're sorry.” He smiled at her,
who returned an evil glare at him. “For once, I am not sorry.” She probably
could tell by his silly smile.
“Prat!” She said slapping him on the shoulder. Daphne recomposed herself and
her expression became a little colder.
“Harry, my parents have returned from France today and sent me an owl. Along
with their letter, there was one other for you…”
“For me?”
“Here” She extended him the parchment.
“Lumos,” He said, and Daphne noted that his wand was still on the table beside
the bed, a tiny ball of light appeared next to his head, she was astonished.
Harry couldn't believe what he was reading, and Daphne caught his weird
expression.
“What?”
“Sirius Black just adopted me!”
HPHPHP
 
 
The boy who cheated!
The new Triwizard tournament has barely started and it is already brimming with
irregularities. After the weird announcement done by Barty Crouch about a
fourth champion chosen for the competition, none other than Harry Potter, this
intrepid reporter ventured onto Hogwarts School of Magic grounds to bring you
more information about this incredible story.
It was found out, that not only the Boy Who Lived name came out of the Goblet
of Fire, giving Hogwarts an extra champion, thus creating a big disadvantage to
the Foreign schools, but also that a great tumult had upset the choosing
ceremony.
No one seems to know how Harry Potter’s name ended up in the Goblet of Fire or
what kind of spells he used to circumnavigate the protections cast upon the
artifact. Some students suspect the use of dark arts given the boy’s record of
parselmouth and the rampage that followed the nomination.
“Potter is out of control, not even a week ago he broke my nose without any
provocation!” Revealed Draco Malfoy (15) a beautiful young man, heir to a great
fortune that now has his face covered in bandages.
After the nomination, it is said that Harry Potter came out of the room in a
hurry, where he was caught cheating and on his way out of the castle assaulted
a fellow student. Then proceed to a rampant of raw magic that endangered many.
Even his own house colleagues are afraid. “He is getting distant from everyone
and has no friends, he can’t stand not being the center of attention. I am
afraid he may even put others in danger because of it” said a Gryffindor
student who prefers to remain anonymous.
For more on this see page 12.
Rita Skeeter.
...
 
Daphne stayed awake with Harry discussing about the ramifications of the
adoption news. Harry had told her about his last year, how he discovered that
Sirius was innocent, and that Peter Pettigrew had betrayed his parents, then
about the escape of Remus and Sirius, as his godfather was still accused of the
crimes he did not committed.
They deduced that Daphne’s father, Artus, knew it all and had been in contact
with Sirius in France, which would explain the first of Fleur's letters. The
Delacours, Daphne explained to Harry, were a prominent and ancient family, and
had been in business with the Greengrass family for many generations. They had
grown distant after the war ended, but their connections still ran deep. The
family head, Fleur's father, was probably going to be the next French minister
of magic. Then they discussed the notification itself.
“For starters, if there is no conviction to him, you automatically became the
heir of the Black family. That will block Narcisa Malfoy's access to the Black
fortune! That is huge!” Daphne said looking at the official ministry documents
with an understanding gaze.
“Narcisa Malfoy?” Harry asked.
“She is Sirius’ cousin, Draco was the Black family heir until tonight. That is
rich…” she gave Harry an almost evil smile. “You are now heir to two ancient
noble houses. Now you need my help more than ever, mister Potter-Black” They
kept talking, not noticing the time. Daphne realized how close she was to him
as she sat on his bed. Their hands touching as they talk. She was pleased with
how hungry he was for knowledge, how his mind started making plans. “He really
would fit well in Slytherin…” she thought. As the first rays of the sun entered
the room, Daphne leaned close to Harry, thinking about all the time she had
lost because of false assumptions and house rivalries. She put a hand on his
chest and said in a whisper.
“You know, I am a girl who usually gets what I want, and right now Harry, I
want another kiss before this night ends… and we have to come back to the real
world.”
Harry moved forward, put one of his hands on the back of her neck and kissed
her, another slow, deep kiss, and her tongue moving sensually in his mouth.
“There is his Gryffindor side…”
When they parted Harry smiled. “If it wasn't for before, I would think you are
after my money.”
She slapped his arm again. “I hate you!” And laughed, more than she ever dared
to do at the school. Not a minute later madam Pomphrey entered the room and
gave the two students a questioning look.
“Did you stay here all night dear?” The matron asked.
“Yes madam, Harry woke up and we ended up talking, we didn't notice the time
passing.”
She gave her a knowing smile as she ran through some diagnostic spells on
Harry. “You are released from classes this morning, Mr. Potter, but you are
good to go if you want.”
He looked at Daphne. “I would like to go to class madam Pomphrey.”
“Sure honey, then I would like you to see something, to get yourself prepared,”
as she handed them a copy of the Prophet.
Harry and Daphne read it. Daphne found it horrendous, but Harry just sighed.
“That... changes nothing… I have been through worse.” He said. “Can we eat
something in here before classes, madam Pomphrey”?
“Of course, honey.” madam Pomphrey answered. The elves brought them some
breakfast that Daphne and Harry ate together. Daphne realized how starved the
boy was after the surge of magic and the day asleep. After breakfast, they said
goodbye to Madam Pomphrey and went to class.
“OK Daphne” he said as they moved to potions. “I will need your help on this
one, I don't want another skirmish with Malfoy.” She nodded at him.
As they walked down to the dungeons, without touching each other, Daphne
noticed the looks people were giving them, especially Harry. “So, that is how
it feels.” She thought. “They usually watch and measure me, but that is a whole
another level. Some people are actually afraid of him.” She looked at the boy.
He didn't even flinch, He looked used to it, and she thought how sad that was.
As they approach the classroom she could see the gathering of students,
Slytherin on the right side and Gryffindor on the left and she clearly saw what
he meant on that day a week ago. They were divided by an invisible line, drawn
by other generations. She didn't even know the names of half of the lions, and
she had been in class with them for more than four years now.
“Look if it isn't the Ice Queen and the Boy Who Cheated!!” They listened to the
high pitch voice of Draco Malfoy.
“Well, that didn't take long.” She thought looking at Malfoy. He had his
bandages off, but his nose looked shallow. She was ready to respond but Harry
beat her to it.
“Seriously Malfoy, all your daddy could buy with his money was a third-grade
insult?”
“Isn't it strange that he focuses on you so much?” Daphne continued, talking
loudly to Harry, ignoring the blond boy. “Must be the lack of accomplishments
of his own offspring. Maybe he does that because he wished for a son like you.”
“Of course, he couldn't even make the team on its own…” for Daphne's and
Harry’s surprise, it was Blaise Zabini who said that. The tall Italian
Slytherin moved forward in front of Draco. He was a way better seeker the
Malfoy, and seized the opportunity to pay the boy back. “Imagine his shame
having to buy his son’s place.”
“I don’t believe he even feels shame anymore.” finished Daphne, with a cold
expression.
Draco Malfoy looked lost and angry, the Slytherin students were astonished, and
the Gryffindors looked confused. There was a divide between the snakes, and
people were starting to take sides. And Harry was in the middle of it. Only
Hermione and Blaise smiled at them.
Daphne saw that Harry gave Hermione a strange look, and she nodded,
communicating like only people who had been friends for so long could. She
understands what they agreed on as soon as they entered the classroom. Daphne
took her usual place, together with Tracy, and looked astonished as Harry sat
down, in front of her, with Blaise Zabini.
...
The return to classes had been a blessing in disguise for Fleur. She could use
her time in the carriage to think about all the things happening to her. On the
first day of classes, amidst the congratulations she along with the other two
champions received, she noticed that Harry didn't come to the great Hall for
breakfast. For some reason that unsettled her, but classes were starting, and
it was her last year, tournament or not. Later that day, the news came of her
father winning the council vote and becoming the new French minister of magic.
She felt a mixture of pride in her family, and sorrow, for not being there with
them. Later that night, Madam Maxine arranged for Fleur to talk with her
parents through the flue in the headmaster’s office, to congratulate them. She
had many other things she wanted to talk about, Harry, his family connection
with her, why they abandoned him and what she should do. But Dumbledore and
Maxine didn't leave her alone. She decided to figure it out by herself.
Then, the next day, she finally saw Harry and she could see the way people were
treating him. “Boy who cheated” was the word at the Ravenclaw table. She also
noticed some hostility amongst some people within his own house. Hermione,
Katie and the chubby boy seemed to be the only ones talking to him at
breakfast. He tried to pretend he didn't care, but Fleur knew better.
Fleur wanted to go to him, tell him she didn't believed for a second that he
cheated, to give him a hug, tell him the news about her father but didn't know
what to say about the whole tournament business. Were they rivals now? When she
saw his eyes, there was no sadness, only exhaustion… like an old man, she
remembered Hermione saying, “sometimes I can see his light fading…”. He looked
at her for a moment, and with a little smile, he got up and left.
She was ready to go after him when Regine showed her the Daily Prophet. She
couldn't believe it. The paper started smoking in her hands and all the girls
around her got subjected to a succession of French curses, “Screw the
tournament, screw rivalry, I will not be like those horrible people” she
thought. But she didn't see Harry all day, or the next.
People kept talking about the champions, all the hatred people had towards her
before was now directed at him, the Slytherin blonde boy was actively
campaigning against him, and Harry’s own isolation was not helping. She was
getting restless, even Gabrielle couldn't lighten her mood.
The next day, she noticed only Hermione and the others had come down to lunch.
She walked to the Gryffindor table and sat down besides the younger witch.
“'Hermione, where is Harry? Why hasn't he talked to me?” Fleur asked a little
harder than she intended.
“He didn't tell me, I think he is afraid of you being angry at him… also…”
Hermione looked around and leaned closer to her, whispering. “Today is the
first day of the cycle. He doesn’t like to be around us…”
“Nonsense, what do you mean by being around us?” Fleur asked impatiently.
Hermione bit her lips, there was a commanding tone on Fleur's voice that made
difficult not to answer.
“There are some… persons, whose smells can get him” Hermione blushed furiously
and didn't manage to finish.
“Where is he now?”
“On the way to the dungeons, to get a wolfsbane potion from professor Snape.”
Fleur stood. “Point me to the dungeons…” She had decided to sort this, one way
or another.
Fleur wandered through the castle a bit, following Hermione's s directions.
After a while she finally met Harry, coming out of the dungeons, with a vial in
his hands. He looked scared to see her. Without a word, she pushed him to an
empty classroom. “Why does this castle have so many unused rooms?” Fleur asked
herself.
“Full moon or not, we are going to talk!” She said angrily, closing and
silencing the door behind her, before turning to Harry with her arms crossed.
“Let me guess, Hermione told you…” Harry leaned against a table.
“Yes, she did.” She looked at his green eyes. “Listen 'ere, if you 'have a
problem with me, you are going to talk with me! I know you better than this
push me aside crap! If you don't want to be treated like a little boy, don't
act like one!” Fleur was angry, but strangely, around Harry she could keep
control, but she noticed he seemed a little uncomfortable. “Harry, is my allure
bothering you?” She asked with a sigh, afraid of the same things happening
again and again.
“No Fleur, I didn't even know what a veela was until the day after you arrive.
It’s not you, I mean, it is, but it’s not your doing.” Fleur was confused. “It
is your scent… it gets into me…” He took a deep breath, was he smelling her?
“Also, I saw your eyes that night when you realized what happened, this
tournament was yours, you were so happy to be chosen, so proud and I was afraid
you hated me because some idiot is using the tournament to try and kill me
again. I don't want to lose one of the few people I can talk to…”
“Idiot…”
“I am sorry, what?”
“You are an idiot if you think that Harry, I see what this school is doing to
you. I would never turn my back on you.” She felt a little calmer now, talking
to him again. “this school's staff failed to keep you safe, your relatives
failed to give you a home, but I am not one who fails, Harry Potter. It is not
pity…” she said as soon as he opened his mouth, silencing the young wizard. “I
would not dare pity you, I can see what you could have been and what you've
become and even feel a little jealous.” He was about to ask why, but refrained
himself from it.
“Fleur, you must know how dangerous it is to be around me, how dangerous it can
be and how alienating too. But I want to fix my life and myself, I want to find
my own place in all of this, not the one they choose for me, so I will say
this, I would never drag anyone into this shit with me, but if after knowing
and seeing it all, you still want to try, I will never push you away… I will
never do that to anyone anymore, never again. I am done being alone. So, it’s
your choice. Just know that whatever you choose, I know you are more than a
veela or the daughter of a politician. We are not the circumstances of our
births.” He took a deep breath. “That sounded way better in my head…”
Fleur looked deep into the wolf's eyes, and was not afraid. She quickly closed
the distance between then and gave him an embrace and he hugged her back. They
stood there for several minutes, enjoying the feeling of each other. He was
certainly smelling her, she realized. And she liked it.
“Fleur” he said still with her in his arms. “I owe you a butterbeer. Do you
want to go to Hogsmeade with me?”
“Yes Harry, I would love to…”
 
Harry heard the voice in his head, the one he came to identify as the wolf, as
his instincts. It never really used words; it was something subtler yet almost
primal. It strongly manifested itself when Fleur embraced him, when he caught
her scent, with one powerful feeling that could only be translated as...
“Equal.”
***** Chapter 8 *****
AN: I don't own Harry Potter
Writing is hard (almost as hard as drawing), my biggest respect to anyone who
tries and post stories on this or any site, i am learning a lot. Thank you to
everyone who tooke time to read, reviewing and pointing out the mistakes!
Thanx to my betas AWR, Master42 and Finkaness
 
Chapter 08
Harry woke up at Hagrid's hut, feeling pain in his limbs, while the smell of
hot bread, honey and tea filled the air around him. He could see some scratches
on his arms and legs, even felt a little drained, nothing compared to his night
at the hospital wing after his name came out of the Goblet, but enough to feel
tired. Almost immediately, after seeing his big hairy friend, he felt guilty
though. The book, he hadn't even opened it yet. Like last time, when Hagrid sat
on the big chair, humbling a light happy song and preparing tea, waiting for
him to wake.
"'ello lad, how ye doin today?" He laughed loud. So loud it made Harry's head
hurt.
"Really funny big guy." Harry said. " Hagrid, I am sorry, I didn't have the
time to read your book…" He finished looking to the floor, a little ashamed.
"Is yer book now lad." Hagrid answered. All this while he dripped some honey on
a slice of bread, with an understanding smile. "I understand, with all that
tournament mess. But give it a try Harry…" Harry nodded, he really wanted to
read, but things just happened, as they usually did with him. Hagrid looked at
him with thoughtfully. "Harry, what ya remember from last night's?" Harry
looked at him confused. "Try to make an effort to remember what we did…"
Harry thought that Hagrid's suggestion was a little weird, but he had time
until he would be able to move somewhat comfortably again, and he was feeling
guilty about the book. He tried to concentrate, the last thing he remembered
was the pain of the transformation. It felt like every bone in his body was
being broken at the same time, and his skin was being ripped open from the
inside, before his mind went blank. Even remembering it sent shivers down his
spine. "I don't know Hagrid, I can't remember…" he sounded defeated.
"Try not to focus on the memories," Hagrid said, taking a sip of the tea. "But
the sensations, that ye saw, ye ear, ye taste and especially what ya smell…"
Harry tried just that. It seemed really hard at the beginning, He felt like
couldn't grab the right sensations, but then he tried to use the surrounding
smells to help, just like last time. He focused on the scent of the trees and
the dirty, and felt a spark in his mind. Much like the feeling of remembering a
dream than an actual memory, like when he saw the trees of the forbidden
forest. The smell of the oaks and evergreens, the cold breeze, he wanted to
run, to hunt… than he felt danger… spiders … himself… alone…
Hide…
Harry opened his eyes in awe. "How... Remus told me it was impossible to
remember anything! It was far away, like a dream… but I know it's a real
memory!" Hagrid smiled at him. After that they ate in silence, Harry trying to
process what happened, at least the food made him feel even better.
"What are you not telling me Hagrid?" Harry finally asked, with a piercing look
to his friend.
" I… Harry, I don't think you should let any of the other professors see ye, at
least until lunch…" The half giant looked concern.
"Why?"
"Because, if that burger Snape see ye that well, he might do something… I
shouldn't be helping ye like that. They think you're cursed, but I don't!"
"I… sure Hagrid." "Weird." Harry thought. But Hagrid's worry looked all too
real for Harry to ignore. There was something happening. In theory, only the
headmaster, Hagrid and Snape knew about Harry's condition. Maybe it was
something about that.
"Oi Dobby!" Hagrid said out loud and the frantic house elf appeared with a pop.
"Yeas Hagrid sirs… HARRY POTTER SIR! Dobby is so happy to see the greatest
wizards of them all Harry Potter!" The little Elf hushed and hugged Harry's leg
with genuine happiness, scaring the wizard to death in the process.
"Dobby, what are you doing here?"
"Is works at Hogwarts now Harry Potter sir, what can Dobby do to helps you?"
"Can ya take Harry back to Gryffindor tower without anyone noticing?" Hagrid
asked, with a big slice of bread in his hands.
"Of course, anything for greatest wizards of them all!"
Within a quick thought, Harry remembered his friends and his projects that
needed a place and had an idea. He turned to the little elf and asked. "Dobby,
is there a place in the castle where I can meet my friends without anyone
noticing?"
"Yes, there is Harry Potter sir."
"Can you take me there please?"
Dobby held Harry's arm and with a pop they were inside a dark corridor in a
place of the castle that harry never had been, a great tapestry hanged on the
wall in front of them."This is" Dobby said pointing to the tapestry. "Is the
coming and going room…"
.oOo.
Harry didn't show for potions that morning, and even knowing the reason, Daphne
couldn't help but miss him. The school was getting really worked up with the
tournament at this point. Most of Gryffindor house were now openly rooting for
him, although most yet avoided any contact with the wizard. Sitting there with
Tracy, she remembered the night at the hospital again. The same way she did all
through the weekend. Was she being serious or just teasing him? The Slytherin
was not sure anymore. So much for an ice queen, she thought. He was making a
real effort, if not to get closer, to at least have a peaceful coexistence with
the students of her house. He was serious about wanting to try to make changes.
But, the things she heard when he was sleeping at his hospital bed were
troublesome. The pleading, the fear, the anger. She had expected an arrogant,
self entitled wannabe hero, but found only a broken young man. She didn't know
if it was the healer in her, but she wanted to understand, and to offer help.
The letter his father sent her this morning didn't help to ease her worries
either. To her surprise, following Harry's move on the last week, Hermione sat
down with her and Tracy, getting an evil snare from Weasley and a smiling nod
from Longbottom. The lines kept been erased and redrawn between the students.
Blaise also gave them an approving nod. The tall boy was proving to be an eager
ally. "That is new…" Tracy said to the Gryffindor. "Won't you get in trouble?"
"If I get in trouble, then doing this is even more necessary than we thought.
Besides, you two are great at potions, so I think the three of us will make a
good team." Hermione said with a wink at the blond, who rolled her eyes, but
smiled back. Snape entered the room, and scanned the students with his blank
emotionless eyes, he held his gaze a second longer on the three girls before
turning to the board and starting the day's lesson.
"How is Harry?" Daphne finally asked.
Hermione bit her lips. Daphne knew right there that Hermione knew about the
curse. "He… was not feeling well, so… hum, he had to lie down. Might be better
at lunch."
"Goodness Hermione, you are really a terrible liar…" Daphne shot and the other
witch blushed. "Well, I will have to talk to him myself and figure it out
them." She sighed.
"I am sorry Daphne. I don't know what to say."
"This will only work out if you let me in entirely. I already know about his
little problem." She was now using her cold calculated tone. "I appreciate what
you two are trying to do, but I don't like being worried and not being included
in things. We are in this together, or I'm out"
"Are you worried about Harry?" Hermione asked with a raised eyebrow. Daphne
didn't even change her expression, she just looked deep inside Hermione's eyes.
"I would not worry about being included Daphne." Hermione said with a shy
smile. "The feeling is mutual. Trust is something Harry hardly gives away, and
you earned it. The idiot probably thinks he is protecting us, keeping certain
things to himself, but he will come around, or we will make him."
"Us?" Daphne though before having to focus on the task Snape had just passed to
the class.
.oOo.
Fleur didn't bother getting to the great Hall for breakfast that morning. As
much as she enjoyed Gabby and Hermione's company, she was not in the mood that
day. She barely had any sleep, knowing that Harry was out there alone, she even
heard him howl, making her shiver in bed. At first, she believed it was fear,
and kept thinking about the wards around the castle, the professors and aurores
form the ministry ready to take action if needed. But later she realized this
was not it. She was not afraid, not of Harry. He was out there, alone, the wolf
she had been dreaming on was out there. It was frightening and exciting all at
the same time. What could that mean?
The talk she had with Harry before the full moon had her feeling good, but in a
weird kind way. They stood in each other's arms for a while just enjoying the
proximity. At the first when she started talking, she was afraid her veela
nature would take over and make her scream at him. But it didn't. She remained
in control, at least until that embrace. When she felt his scent, Harry's body
next to her, his hands, one on her back and the other around her shoulder, she
felt herself losing control of her aura. Letting go of feelings she didn't even
know she could have. Fleur stayed on Harry's arms for way more time than
needed. Her allure was not affecting him, and it felt so good to know, so
reassuring, he felt that way not because of some stupid magic compulsion, he
stayed there because he liked her, Fleur, not the veela. Then her heart started
beating even faster, her breath became quicker, drinking on his scent, and she
felt her arousal growing, feeling warm in her entire body, down to her center,
the moisture between her legs. At this point, Harry whispered softly in her
ear, sending chills down her spine. "I wish I could stay here forever… but...
the moon is about to rise Fleur, I need to go…"
Gathering all her willpower, she released him; he was blushing furiously,
taking deep breaths too, but with a silly grin on his face. Fleur though he
looked cute. "See you in a couple days, we are going to own this tournament
together!" He left to the night.
During the morning classes, Fleur thought a lot about the tournament. The first
task was a little more than a month away and would test their courage in front
of the unknown. She had no idea what that meant in the contest of the
tournament, but she felt the need to create a training routine. The French
witch knew she needed to give special attention to her weaknesses, Fleur knew
she was fast and magically powerful, but her body was a little more fragile
than the average person thanks to her veela hereditary. Shields and resistance
spells would be her starting point. Maybe Harry could help her. By the stories
she heard, he was quite the fighter.
At lunch, Fleur was starving; the girl was so hungry she didn't even mind the
food, like she normally would. She gathered Regine and Gabby at the carriage,
and walked to the great Hall. This time Harry was there, at the edge of
Gryffindor's table, seated alone, the other students of his house, a couple
sits away. She took a deep breath to control her anger towards some of those
people, they could cheer for him because of house loyalty, but cannot bother
eating with him, and she sat down beside him. He gave her a brilliant smile,
making her anger of his colleagues evaporated. "Hello, how are my favorite
French witches today." he asked in an unusual jovial tone.
Gabby giggled furiously, and answered. "Bonjour 'Arry."
"That was a terrible pickup line 'Arry." Fleur rebuked, looking at the young
wizard with curiosity. He was supposed to be drained and ragged looking, but
was nothing like. He seemed reassured of something.
"Can't blame a bloke for trying." he shrugged. "And at least I am telling the
truth. You are all my favorites." The girls smiled at him.
"You seem in an oddly good mood, given the situation." Fleur said, curious.
"Not that I'm complaining, it suits you better…"
"Some things are starting to work out, it seems. I want to ask you three,
something. I am creating a kind of defense group, with some very close friends,
to help people be prepared when bad things happen. Hermione thinks this is a
good idea, as I have experience with bad things. I would like to know if you
want to join us. I think it will help with our tournament training too, and we
could use the help of a future curse breaker." He said with a smile,
remembering one of the subjects Fleur had told her in one of their letters.
"Sounds too fun to pass up for me." Said Regine with a grin.
"What is he saying?" Gabby asked in French. Fleur gave her a quick explanation.
"Oui, oui, s'il vous plaît, Fleur." The young witch gave her sister her best
puppy eyes. Fleur rolled her eyes and nodded.
"Cool, meet us tonight at…" Harry started saying, looking excited.
"'Arry, we can't leave the carriage after curfew. How are we going to make it?"
Fleur interrupted.
"Don't worry, I will send someone to your room. No, not myself, although, it's
not a bad...…" Fleur hit him in the arm and Regine laughed. It seems that the
strangeness of the days before had finally gone, much for Fleur's relief.
"Not yet 'Arry, maybe if you behave." Fleur said playfully.
At this point Hermione arrived with the chubby boy. "Why can't I never remember
his name?" Fleur thought. They joined the conversation and Fleur noticed the
red haired girl from the other day coming to sit with them, but the younger
witch seemed to change her mind when she saw the French girls. Fleur even felt
a little guilty.
.oOo.
The headmaster watched his boy from the staff table. Harry had been in Hagrid's
hut all morning, seemingly drained. Perhaps the new dosage will do, for now at
least.
But now the old wizard had a new concern, Harry was getting too close to the
Delacour girls, specifically the older one. How much she knew of her parent's
doings and aspirations were a mystery for him, and the headmaster didn't like
those kinds of mysteries. Being a foreign student and daughter of an important
politician, she was somewhat out of his reach, he came to like that even less.
Perhaps Dolores's idea had its merits.
There must be something in the magic of those families that attracted each
other, something dark and dangerous. It was happening just like sixteen years
ago. He needed to check if the Delacours had been in contact with the
Greengrasses too, that would be disastrous. For now, Albus Dumbledore had
decided to wait and see on the kids. His plans seemed to be working, the
impostor was being under constant surveillance, and the order had even
discovered some of its contacts, getting ever closer to Tom's hideout. In the
right time they would be ready to act.
Now he needed to find Sirius Black.
.oOo.
At the edge of woods that surrounded the Bell family state, Katie Bell took a
deep breath. Her hands caressing the old oak trees that kept her safe for so
many years. She couldn't help, but feel a little sad about the decision she had
finally made. But her inner wolf knew this was the right choice, and denying it
would bring only more suffering, to much more people than herself.
"Want to tell me what's happening, little cub." Her grandfather, Benjamin Bell
asked her with a voice full of concern. As he approached, Benjamin was a tower
of a man. Even missing his right arm on shoulder high, with a tall strong
build. His grey hair was cut just above the shoulders, and his almost totally
white beard was short but full. His eyes were of a very light brownish color,
almost yellow, shining with an almost predatory gaze.
"I haven't been a little cub for a while, grandpa." She answered with a smile
to the man that had always been her rock.
"Indeed…" He placed his one hand over her's on the tree, covering it entirely;
Katie could feel his warm, and also the calluses of years of hunting and caring
for his pack. "But that doesn't mean I can't be worried about you." He looked
deep into her eyes. "You hunted with us this night, but you were not truly
there; I could feel that your heart was elsewhere."
"Grandpa… I found an alpha… and I decided to follow him…" She looked him in the
eyes, almost defiant.
"The boy you told me about? Potter?"
"Yes… I can't let him go; I can't leave him alone anymore. My heart keeps
calling, and my howls try to reach him."
Benjamin stayed silent, looking at the big tree. Katie tried to read his eyes,
but her emotions got in the way. "I heard the boy is quite powerful. I need to
ask, it is his power that is bringing you to him?"
"No… he is powerful, that is true, but he is also much more. He is kind,
passionate and protective. There is also darkness in him, it is true, as if he
has been through hell and back, and yet he always tries to do what is right…not
for him, but for the otters. But I can see it is taking a tough on him. I want
to help him fight this darkness, and I don't want him to be alone anymore."
Benjamin sighed. "You must do what you think is right. Your resolve and your
instincts had always being your forte. But please remember, we will always be
your family and you will always have a place with us. I just ask you, run with
us one more time before joining him. For me and your mother."
She hugged him tight, with tears in her eyes.
"Of course grandpa…"
HPHPHP
My name is Christopher Bell,
"I wonder if he is Katie's relative…"
As I write those words, I complete 254 years of life, 206 of those as the Alpha
of the most powerful pack oh the entire England. I have been bitten by my own
mother at age five, and took the role as the Alpha after my grandmother passed
away. Now I prepare the groundwork for my son to take the role after me, as
even our kind can't live forever. My objective with this tome is to shed a
light over myself and my kind, and what it means to be on a pack. Through all
my years, I had seen many people came and go from the pack, both wolves and non
wolves. Some of our cubs had gone to create packs of their own, but so strong
are our bound that most only leave us at time of their death.
Harry was astonished. Seated in the tree trunk where he had talked with
Hermione, he turned the page. A book written by a werewolf. One that seemed an
important one. How could Hagrid had come in possession of this?
Most of the "normal" wizardry society has labeled our kind as dark creatures,
little more than monsters to be suspected on a daily basis and feared at the
high of the moon. The big bad wolf of their kid's tales. Although it is true we
possess an undying rage Inside us that can easily drive us to violent behavior
(but isn't that true about any normal wizards and non magical humans too?) And
the sins some of our kind committed are amongst the most terrible imaginable (I
will delve more on that later) I honestly don't believe that is the reason they
had ostracized and hunted us. The real reason is more subtle, and because of
that, way more dangerous.
We see magic differently.
Normal wizards often see magic in black and white, light and dark. Champion of
the light, dark Lord. They rely on their limited vision and the sense of the
magic around to do it.
Magic speaks to us differently, it speaks to us through colors that only we can
understand, it flow through us in scents so unique that the average wizard
would go crazy just to imagine, we can hear magic singing, we can taste it and
we can relinquish when it kills. To us, magic is not black or white, not some
shades of grey or light and darkness. To us, magic is that and much more, magic
is vibrant, creator of life and harvester of death. Magic is alive (and I am
pretty sure it is female.)
"Hermione will like that" Harry thought. Still mesmerized by what the book on
his hands were saying.
That is the reason I think they really fear us and label us as dark creatures.
Haven't they done the same with all other magical sentient creatures? They had
done the same to the veela, the fey, the goblins; they almost exterminated the
dragons, the most ancient of us all. They fear the different.
Now, for one to understand us, first he needs to understand the most important
thing to our kind. The reason to our world.
The pack.
.oOo.
"HEY Potty!" Hermione turned around to see Draco Malfoy with a cardboard box in
his hands. He walked towards Harry and her with a slick, evil grin. "Look what
the owl brought me this morning, do you want one?" He shoved his hand inside it
and took one a bottom just like the one pinned on his robe. The circular bottom
was in blue and yellow, almost twice the size of a galleon. Printed on it was
the smiling face of Cedric Diggory, and the words qritten with shining magical
letters read, "support Cedric, the true Hogwarts champion"! Hermione saw that
Crablee, Goilee, Parkinson and Millicent were all wearing one like that, just
like some other Slytherin students too, but for the witch's relief, less people
than she expected. "I did those to show my support to the true Hogwarts
champion, and look that is not all!" Draco touched the bottom he was wearing,
it made a swirling move and a whistle sound as the colors changed to red and
gold, with an image of Harry's angry head in it, and the shining words "Potter
sux!". "Cool isn't it, here, you can have one for each of your lesser blood
friends!"
Hermione looked at Harry. The girl was fuming, her cheeks red, but the young
wizard only shook his head. He was not biting the bait. She knew he didn't want
risk detention today. "Hey Greengrass!" Draco theatrically called turning to
the black haired girl leaving the classroom with Tracey and Blaise. "Want one?
Show some house and school loyalty here" Draco smirked and moved to place the
bottom on her chest. Hermione could feel Harry tensing besides her, the warm
emanating from his body was almost like standing close to a flame. That was the
line it should not be crossed anymore, she could see his protective instincts
kicking in. Katie was right. Harry gave a step closer to them, and Hermione
herself tensed.
But Daphne was faster, with a quick movement she pointed her wand at Malfoy's
manhood, making the boy stand cold, and hissed at him. "If you ever try to
touch me again," her voice sounded cold and controlled, making it even more
scary, "I will curse your little balls so bad that your mother will have to
endure your joke of a father one more time just to ensure that your weak
bloodline don't die…"
Draco was flushed red with rage, Parkinson, Crablee and Goyle drawn their
wands, as did Tracy and Zabini, Hermione saw Harry moving even closer, and so
did Draco. The look on the blond boy's eyes a mixture of rage and fear.
"Enough of this!" Minerva Mcgonagall's voice echoed through the corridor.
"Malfoy, remove yourself and your stuff from here before I vanish it. I will
not tolerate any more conflict between students." Hermione noticed that all
bottoms reverted to support Cedric as soon as the professor walked in, Daphne
collected her wand, and Draco moved to the great hall with a furious gaze both
to Harry and the Ice Queen.
After making certain Daphne, Tracy and Blaise were not been ambushed, Hermione
and Harry continued their path to Gryffindor's common room. "We need a training
plan for our little defense project." Harry said on the way. "And a training
schedule. Maybe you can work that out?" He asked her with a knowing smile. He
really knew her, Hermione though, she loved scheduling things.
"Of course I will, but before we need to know at which level each one of us
are, then we can divide ourselves into training tiers, each tier learning from
the above and teaching the below. I believe you and Fleur will be the top tier.
We go from there."
"Sounds good! You are brilliant, I am lucky to have you!" Hermione waited for
the "but I am not that good line" from Harry, but it never came. "About Ron…"
he asked instead.
She bit her lip, making Harry blush. Interesting….
"I don't think is the right time Harry, especially after that hideous piece at
the Prophet. He needs to come around on his own." She was secretly relieved for
not having to deal with the red haired boy anymore. Harry was doing better in
classes, and she got to expend time with him by herself, without been
constantly reminded of what a bastard Ron was. But she knew it hurt Harry. "I
will talk to Katie." She's tough. "Maybe she can help me tell him what happened
in a way that will not make Harry go after Ron and hurt him."
Harry then started talking about Christopher Bell's book and how it was
changing his views, how he could feel what he was writing about, and it was
fascinating, almost as fascinating as hearing him talk. "Dammit Hermione." She
mentally hit herself in the back. "There you go, acting like a little girl in
love again, get a hold of yourself!"
"Harry, Hermione!" Katie entered the common room; she was finally back from
home. The young woman gave Hermione a kiss in the check, making the girl blush
in surprise, and a hug on Harry pressing her entire body on him, so they could
feel each other in a not only friendly way. People around the room looked at
them, but Katie didn't seem to care. Harry blushed furiously, trying to hide
his erection from the hug, but smiled, Hermione thought the embarrassment made
him even cuter.
Instantly, images of the two persons in front of her bombarded Hermione's
brain, and she felt the already familiar warm of her arousal between her legs.
They both looked at her at the same time. Harry seemed confused; Katie just
gave her an evil smile. Hermione realized they smelled it. They knew.
.oOo.
Bellatrix rested her head at the wall of the dark cell, there was no windows,
so she couldn't tell what time was it, or even if it was day or night. It was
part of their punishment at this hell hole to let them go slowly insane.
"Good", she thought, it helped with her act of playing the insane woman.
Bellatrix Lestrange was far from insane. She was mischievous, calculating, and
intelligent. She found out her act helped her not only to survive, but to
thrive amidst some of the wickets men she ever knew. Because of this she could
work with no boundaries, killing, torturing, raping… and she liked it. She felt
empowered, and excited, seem all those men and women trembling at her name. But
now it ended, she was stuck here, abandoned. Alone.
"Why did you follow Voldemort?" Bellatrix didn't know what scared her the most,
the casual mention of the Dark Lord's name, or the deep feral voice saying it
with so much easy, in a tone much more calm than she even believed possible
coming from a monster like him. But her trained mind quickly put the surprise
aside and got a hold of the situation.
"Why you want to know, beast!" She said angrily to the wall behind her. The low
laughter at the other side was even scarier than before, when did Fenrir got so
controlled?
"Because I am bored, bitch!" The last world resonated through the wall, making
her tremble, how that animal dare call her that. Even so, there was something
on his voice, something deep and unsettling, that she only had felt on the dark
lord's voice before, something almost compelling. "Don't even try to fool me
bitch." There was that word again, she was fuming now. "I can see right through
your act."
She stayed in silence for a while. She felt angry, but also lonely. Something
was compelling her to answer, she was not sure if it was the monster's voice,
or her own will to talk to another person. Even if he was not entirely a person
at all. "Some… people need to be put in their places." she started. "There is
an order on this world, and some are born to serve the others. He was powerful
enough to impose that order."
"Bullshit…" his deep voice simple echoed through the wall, hitting her like a
punch. "I didn't ask for his bloody stupid pureblood propaganda pamphlets. I
can smell your lies, I am asking about the murders, the torture, I am asking
about Bellatrix!."
She closed her eyes; this was not the Greyback she knew. This one was way more
frightening, but also more interesting. She kept going. "At first I think it
was about getting revenge on the world. I was a woman, a pureblood, I was
taught pride, but was sold like a milking cow by my sister…"
"And then…"
"And then I discovered that I liked." Bellatrix smiled, an evil and lively
smile, and she almost felt the grim coming from the other side of the wall.
"And you, beast, why did you serve the dark lord?
"There is where you are wrong, bitch… I never served the little Voldemort."
Bellatrix was both scared and intrigued as how could someone treat the dark
lord so lightly. "I approached him when he was young and you were just a child.
I had a deal with him." Shivers gone down her spine…
"Why?"
He laughed a bestial laugh. "I like them young…"
.oOo.
Fleur, Regine and Gabby were waiting at the older girl's room. They had
conjectured how Harry was going to take then to the castle's seventh floor.
Invisible cloak? Aparating? All seem so unbelievable, but the truth was going
to show itself even weirder. About forty five minutes after curfew, Gabby was
getting impatient when they heard a pop in the room. The most weirdly dressed
house elf they had ever seen appeared in front of them. He was wearing one sock
of each color, and a jersey with Harry's name and number over him, tied by a
rope on his waist. But his attitude jumpy was even weirder.
"My name's is Dobby," the weird elf presented himself with an exaggerated bow
to the girls, "mister Harry Potter sir asked me to take his flower and her
friends to him." Gabby was ecstatic, jumping with an enormous smile.
Regine couldn't handle herself and started laughing. "This guy is really full
of surprises all right! Let's go, flooowwer." She dragged the last word looking
directly a Fleur, who seemed torn between disgust and amusement at the little
creature in front of her. Fleur gave Regine an evil look and sighed, accepting
the hand the weird elf was offering. In a blink of an eye and a pop they found
themselves at a dark corridor with a big tapestry on the wall. Gathered there
were Harry, Hermione, Katie, the chubby boy (how is his name?) and Daphne.
There were also three more Slytherin students she didn't know and the red
haired angry girl.
Harry gave Fleur a smile that she earnestly returned. It was weird how she felt
like they could almost communicate without exchanging a single word. Gabby ran
and gave Harry a hug, storming him with a barrage of words both in English and
French.
"Hum, Potter, why are we here in front of a wall?" The tall and dark Slytherin
boy suddenly asked.
"Allow me…" Harry said, and walked over the tapestry three times, when
suddenly, without a sound, a big double door appeared behind it. Everyone
looked astonished. Harry opened the door and invited they in. "Harry, what is
this place?" Hermione asked as they entered a big room with some chairs, many
training dummies and a big duel ring at the corner.
"Dobby called it the coming and go room. As he explained me, the room adjusts
itself accordingly to what the person in front of it needs. Once the door is
closed, no one else can enter until we leave. I tested it a couple times, and
got a replica of the Gryffindor common room, the burrow and even a small pool!"
He said excited to the amazed little student group.
"But there is nothing about it in Hogwarts a history…" the bushy haired girl
whispered. Fleur was astonished. Gabby didn't leave Harry's side, holding his
left hand and Fleur approached then both to the right.
"Ok, I am not very good with this. But…" Harry started, talking a little louder
so everyone could listen to him and pay attention to his words, Fleur could see
a subtle change on his posture. "Well, You were all called here because I trust
and care about you, and we are here to learn, not only how to defend ourselves,
but most importantly, how to defend those we care for. Saving last year under
professor Lupin, the defense classes here were all a joke at best. I know many
people don't believe me, but Voldemort isn't finished…" Fleur noticed some of
the people flinching at the name, interestingly, Hermione, Katie and Daphne
kept their cool. "He will be back and I want to be prepared this time, and I
need you to be prepared as well" Fleur watched Harry, and it was amazing. His
aura changed, emanating a sense of leadership and strength, the other people
couldn't help but listen. Even her. "Even if for some reason any of you here
don't believe me, you all need to learn how to defend yourselves, and those you
care for. The staff of this school don't care half of the time, or even cover
some dangerous entitle individuals. The people on this room are friends and
people I trust and I hope to bring more with time… we need to prepare and
better ourselves, screw house rivalries, or blood status, we are the change we
be waiting for. We need to be more for those we love. We are pieces being
playing by others, we are not stories to be told, we are our own selves, we
must show that we are awake and we are in control! I will not let Voldemort or
anyone for that matter take anyone from me anymore, and I hope you are ready
for that too." Silently nods, Fleur saw Hermione and Katie smiling. Daphne
looked could, but her eyes were shining at the wizard in front of her Here were
the Harry they loved. "Before we start any questions?"
"Hum… why is French Blondie and her friends here? This doesn't concern then, we
are your friends!" The red haired girl asked, with a voice full of venom and,
Fleur noticed, a little of jealousy. Fleur gave her a fierce look, even if her
own reaction had been exaggerated the other day, the little girl was starting
to push it. She was about to speak, but Harry was faster.
"Her name is Fleur and you know it Ginny. She is a friend, and you are naive if
you think this fight don't affect her as much as us. She is also the top
duelist of her school, and I believe she can help us a lot. I know she can help
me a lot." Harry smiled to Fleur and looked back to Ginny. "If we start with
this kind of attitude between ourselves, we are doomed to fail." the red haired
girl, Ginny looked embarrassed under Harry's hard look. Fleur also felt a
little ashamed of her previous attitude and made a mental note of apologizing
later. "Any other questions before we start?"
"It is true you can perform a corporeal patronus?" Tracy asked.
"Well… yes… is no big deal…"
"Shut the fuck up Harry, of course it is! Show us!"
Harry drew his wand, Fleur saw the concentration on his eyes for a moment, and
he looked at her. Was he using her as a happy feeling? He waved his wand and
said the incantation. "Expecto patronum."
A burst of light came out from his wand and ran around them, as the powerful
form of a great dire wolf started to form. It was beautiful and powerful, he
encircle the group a couple times then stopped and touch his enormous head to
Harry's forehead, before dissolving in a silent howl. Fleur looked at Harry in
awe; even now he was full of surprises. What an intriguing person. But he
looked confused.
.oOo.
Harry proceeds to separate them by pairs in order to test their skills in a
friendly duel. As they get prepared, Fleur approached him and lightly touched
his hand. "Are you OK 'Arry? You look a li'ee confused."
"I'm ok," He answered, sound a less confident than he wished for, "just a
little weird. Did you ever read about a patronus changing form before?"
"Yours changed?"
"Yes, it used to be a stag, today it was a wolf…" He sounded a little ashamed,
but he didn't even know why, he felt strange talking about something so
intimate with Fleur, yet he felt the French witch could understand.
"Well, I think you, Harry, changed, and your patronus is reflecting that,
don't? The wolf is incredibly fitting to the Harry I know…" She gave him a
predatory smile that sent shivers down his neck.
"You probably right, but I think I will miss Prongs" Harry looked at her
confused face with a little sadness. "The stag was my father's animagus form…
it was somewhat of a connection I had with him… I know it sounds silly..."
Fleur gave him a nice, caring hug, Harry let himself drawn in her scent,
letting it make him calmer. When they finally parted, she said.
"Maybe it happened because you are ready to move out of their shadows. I am not
saying to forget them or not to honor their memory, but maybe is time for you
to be your own man. To make them proud by being 'Arry Potter, not le
survivant."
Harry took it to the heart, and after a deep breath finally said, with a smile
of his own "Thank you, that actually… helped."
"Are you sure it was not all a plan for me to hug you again?" She said with a
mischievous grin 'You could had just asked…".
"I cannot deny nor confirm such statement," Harry said proudly, "but that hug
helped me a lot too…" This time he was the one with a grin.
"Cretin…" she said softly.
Harry blushed and moved to the front. "Ok, let's start. Neville and Tracy
first. Remember, minor hexes and shields, this is a friendly duel to determine
where each person stands only."
Harry had based his pairings in accordance with what he have seen from his
friends in defense classes, and he knew from the letters they exchanged, that
Fleur was Beauxbatons duel champion. Regine and Gabby were mysteries to him.
Harry watched as Tracy quickly defeated Neville, thought he could see that the
boy really held back because of his shyness. It was something he would have to
work on. Then he moved to Gabby and Astoria. Harry was actually happily
surprised with Gabby, who won against the older girl and showed great knowledge
of duel techniques. Fleur explained that they parents trained both of them
since very early age.
Ginny defeated Blaise, even if barely, Daphne won against Katie, her shield
work and her legendary stingers doing had being put to work. Hermione had a
hard time with Regine, the older girl clearly had knowledge of more advanced
duel techniques, but managed to defend herself with proficiency as Hermione
probably had more practical experiences in fighting than any other there, save
himself. All the time Harry took notes. As they finished, Harry had a list of
all of them, listing their strengths and what he think they need to work on, he
was dividing them in groups when Fleur touched his shoulders. He turned to see
a predatory fire in his eyes, that made her even more beautiful to him.
"We are not done yet 'boy'." She said with an evil grin. "Don't you think you
will escape me?" She pointed at the ring. Everyone else is watching them. "I am
dying to see the true 'Arry, after all those stories… we can really learn about
someone in a duel, don't you think? And I really want to learn about you
'Arry." She said on his ear now, sending shivers down his spine, awaking the
wolf.
Harry responded kindly. "Why do I feel you witches are trying to literally kill
me?" They walked onto the ring, all eyes on them; Fleur tied her platinum hair
in a ponytail, moving with grace and speed. She gracefully assumed the dueling
position, looking right at his eyes."Shit," Harry thought. "She looks beautiful
and dangerous…" He looked at her almost perfect stance, perfectly balanced,
ready to attack or block, even now he couldn't find a breach. Her wand slightly
pointed down. He felt a little ashamed of his own slope position, but that too
was an act. She probably knew it. Harry realized he felt excited about this.
It was also the first time he dueled after being bitten. The wolf was eager to
prove himself. He could also smell her excitement, hear her breath. "Maybe this
will even things out for me, otherwise I am pretty sure I didn't stand a
chance." he thought, feeling a smile on the corner of his mouth.
They bowed at each other, as Remus had taught him, with moving his eyes from
the opponent. It proved to be the right thing to do, less than a second later
Harry dodged to the right, feeling the air movement produced by the ropes of
her non verbal incarcerous spell, Harry promptly respond with an Impediment
Jinx of his own, moving to the left as Fleur conjured a shield. A stunner hit
the ground where he was not a second before, his reflexes starting running at
full speed. To the watchers, it was almost like a dance, as they move around
and with each other. Harry looked like he was flying through the ring, relying
more on dodging with his newfound reaction speed hovering up and down, left and
right, as Fleur looked like a fey or a goddess at the centre of a worship
ritual, surrounded by the light of her shields, and the repealed spell's sparks
flying around her as she gracefully rotate to accompany her partners fast
movements around her. Even with the speed and the lights, Harry looked at her
in awe, with the movement of her hair accompanying her own, flying behind her,
shining like silver reflecting the light of the spells, and he could see she
was smiling, and realized he too was smiling. Then he saw a breach on her
defenses and quickly stepped closer to her, only to realize it was a trap.
"Expelliarmus!" They both said at the same time. Their breath was fast, both
their hearts pounding, at mere inches of each other, their bodies almost
meeting when they stopped. They laughed, and each hand back the wand they got
to its owner.
"I guess it's a tie…did you learned what you think you would?" he asked.
"For now… and got even more questions..." she answered, getting closer.
They were disturbed by Gabby happy cheering and babbling in French. Harry
looked at the others students, breathing fast.
"That was amazing!" Blaise said in awe. "You were both so fast, and silent…
wow…"
"It was actually … beautiful!" Daphne complemented.
Harry and Fleur both blushed. Gabby hugged both of them. "Well…" Harry said,
still a little ashamed. "I think that, based on what I had seen, we can work on
the strengths and weaknesses of each one. We meet again in two days; if you
have some other people in mind, let me know so we can discuss bringing them in.
Dobby." The elf popped into the room. "Please help everyone back; I need to go
to the hospital wing with Daphne."
.oOo.
Daphne and Harry came back to the hospital wing under the wizard invisibility
cloak. They walked side By side, their shoulders and arms touching. Harry still
a little worked up from the amazing duel with Fleur, and Daphne couldn't miss
the opportunity seeing the silly smile on his face, He was one the fell she
felt like losing up, along with Tracy and maybe Hermione. "Enjoying yourself
Potter?" she asked in a teasingly tone, rubbing her fingers on his hand.
"Hey," He said, blushing a little, "in my defense, any bloke would, been this
close of a beautiful witch. Last I remember I am a guy." He laughed at his own
cheekiness. "I am awful at this…"
"If you behave I may let you hold my hand…"
"Tease!" He rolled his eyes.
"Am I?" She thought. She couldn't deny, she was enjoying herself, but her mind
keep coming back to their kisses… she brought herself even closer to him,
feeling his warm nest to her, feeling protected. As they reach the hospital
wing, Daphne checked to see that madam Ponphey had already gone to bed. There
were no patients in serious conditions right, only a Durmstrang student who got
too close of the screaming bulbs sleeping soundly, and the wards would let her
know if something happened. She then casted a quick tempus, checking the hour.
"We still have five minutes, let's get to the fire place and I will set the
wards."
"I was thinking." Harry said as he watch her, waving her wand around the
fireplace, again stunned by how beautiful she looked, just like he did in that
second year train encounter. "Maybe we can use that room for you to teach me
to."
"That sounds good." She answered in her analytical tone.
"What you think I need to learn?" There was a real curiosity in his voice.
"Next year, you can apply for emancipation." She started, sitting at his side.
"The usual age is seventeen, but under unusual circumstances like yours it can
be lowered to sixteen. Although a lot of people will not be happy by seen the
Potters's wizengamot sit occupied again"
"You are saying that after this summer I would never need to come back to the
Durlleys again?" His face was so hopeful, Daphne though it looked like a child
desperate to run away, her heart felt heavy, how can the prideful young man she
just witness revert like that? His self esteem really was destroyed.
"You need to learn how to present yourself to the Wizengamot first to present
your case. The actual structure is not like the books you read, not since the
last war. Some families lost too much, others gained too much power, You need
to learn the pureblood costumes, even if you don't like it, actually, most of
the wizards costumes so you can navigate around them without been crushed. It
won't hurt to learn how to drink and how to dance too…"
"Dance? I can't dance!"
"After what I saw tonight I really doubt it." She smiled at him.
"Why do I have to dance, what it has to do with politics?" He looked sincerely
confused.
"Harry, you are the heir of two ancient noble houses… you will need to learn
how to behave with the ladies, there are other forms of politics beyond the
Wizengamot. More subtle, but maybe even more powerful, making alliances and
supporting other families, remember that our political system is two hundred
years behind, and wizards gave a lot of importance to bloodlines and magical
power, and you have both.."
"You are talking about marriage…"
"You might even consider more than one."
"Why would I get married, divorced and married again? Isn't better to make the
first one work?"
"I mean at the same time Harry." She chuckle at him.
"What is that even legal?" Now he was scarred, and she tough he looked cute
like that. "Well, it doesn't matter now, I am much too young… also," he leaned
closer to Daphne. "I know how to behave with the ladies, especially when they
are not teasing me."
Daphne leaned even closer, her deep blue eyes fixed on his.
"You wish Potter…"
As if a hint had happened, the fireplace lifted by itself with green flames,
catching both teens attention, a man's head appeared through it. "Hello
father." Daphne said after recovering from the scare. "Harry, this is my father
Artus Greengrass."
"Hello Mr. Greengrass, is a pleasure meeting you."
"It is my pleasure seen you again Harry, you became quite the notable young
man. I know you must heard it all the time, and it must not be pleasant, but
for a second I felt like I was seen James again. But now I see much of Lily in
you… but I digress, just a second, they are almost ready."
"They?" Harry looked confused.
With another green flash, the head of Sirius Black appeared aside from Artus's.
"Really complex this untraceable double floo don't? Hello pup!"
"Sirius!" Daphne could hear the warm of Harry's voice. "Are you ok? Where are
you? It's so good to see you!"
"It's good to see you too pup. I needed to check on you after this tournament
bullshit. How are you holding on?"
"Well, apart from someone sabotaging the tournament, probably to see me dead,
things are getting… better, I think."
"Are you preparing yourself? I will not lie pup, you have potential, but you do
need some damn good training! Sometimes you are sloppy as hell."
"I know, Remus told me that last year. The Beauxbatons champion, Fleur will
train with me." Sirius and Artus looked at each other through the flames;
Sirius looked like looking to someone behind him.
"Maybe i can help with that too." Daphne could feel the innuendo on Sirius's
voice and rolled her eyes.
"Harry, who do you think it put your name in the Goblet?" Artus asked.
"I have no idea. Maybe a follower of Voldemort, someone like Lucius Malfoy. He
had interfered at the school before on the third year."
"It is possible…"
"Harry." Sirius said after a couple seconds, sounding worried. "I believe you
received a notice from the ministry of what I did… first I would like to say I
am sorry."
"Why are you sorry for adopting me?" There was real concern in his voice,
Daphne noticed.
"Don't think for a second I don't want you both as an heir and as a soon, pup!
I am sorry because I did it behind your back. Because with this I became just
another grown up bastard trying to control your destiny, I will understand if
you got mad…"
"No Sirius, I am not mad at all. Please don't think like that… for once I am
happy someone did it. Bit how did you manage it?"
"There was never a trial. I survived that hell hole without being convicted.
That meant, for the magical records and Gringotts that I retain some of my
rights as house head."
"Sirius adopting you," Artus continued, "creates a cabal magical prove that he
was never convicted. With that, the new minister of France, Jacques Delacour,
can start an political asylum process, and I will move a petition to his case
to be reopen in the next Wizengamot meeting. It will not be easy, quick or
pretty, the persons who wanted Sirius looked up in the first place will fight
against it"
"And also important." Sirius said. "With that, having an able, but not of age
heir, the Black family accounts became blocked. Narcisa and that trash of a
husband of hers cannot touch the Black family assets to promote their pureblood
agenda, or to help Voldemort."
Harry took a moment to soak things in. He may be able to help freeing his
godfather and became free of Vernon Durlley at the same time. "Does Dumbledore
know about all of this?" He finally asked.
Sirius looked deep into his eyes through the floo, with a severe expression.
"Harry, Dumbledore is the reason why I am hiding…"
***** Chapter 9 *****
AN: I don't own Harry Potter, Doing it for fun =]
Thanx to AWR adn Master42 for being such cool betas, and to my editor for all
the help!
Thank you for reading!
Chapter 09
Currently, my pack consists of eighteen people; eight of them are fully turned
werewolves, the remaining are not normal wizards and witches either, though it
may seem like it to the unassuming eyes of the wizarding society. They are not
like other normal wizards because they all experience the bond of a pack.
The pack is the most important thing in a wolf's life. We live and die in the
pack and for our pack. It is extremely hard to put into words what the pack
means. It is a hunting party, but also much more, it is a family, but is also
more. We are lovers, parents, children, brothers and sisters.
The pack is bound by love. Through the bond we all share each other's happiness
and sadness, wins and losses, love and hate. It is not always easy. The bond
can be so powerful that a non-wolf member can still feel his brother's rage
running through himself and that can be devastating. Through the pack, we also
share our magic. Magic flows through the fully bonded as free as the wind
around as.
Many are stronger than one.
Contrary to what most wizards believe, the true bond cannot be forced upon
someone; rather it is built over time, and by choice. The things that influence
its creation seem to be love, lust, blood relation and magical compatibility.
But most of all, the person must be willing to become a member, to embrace the
wolf in all its good and bad, to accept their loved ones as they are, not as
they desire them to be. There is, indeed, a way to force sort of a bond over
others, but to do so is a sin in the eyes of our kind, and its results are more
akin to slavery than a true pack.
The pack also gives us a way to direct our rage and to share our loads. That is
the reason non-wolves can be bound. If not careful, one may lose touch with
their humanity and be consumed by anger. The lone wolf is a dangerous wolf.
The lone wolf is a dead wolf.
.oOo.
Daphne strongly held Harry's arm, not letting him go, she could see the anger,
the fear, and the betrayal in his emerald eyes. The witch could feel one more
fissure forming in his heart. One more person he trusted that had wronged him.
She could almost share his pain. "Harry wait!" She said. "If you confront the
headmaster now, you will just put Sirius and my father at risk. Let's think
this through. You need to calm down…"
"I trusted him…" Daphne felt the temperature of his body rising. "I looked up
to him! He was almost like family… and he kept me away from the only real
family I may have left…" the wizard closed his almost wolf like eyes, Daphne
saw a tear running down his cheek. "All of this for him to use me as a stunt?
As a weapon? What if he is the one that put my name in the Goblet… he out and
out lied to me about Sirius!" Harry opened his eyes again, his pupils were
vertical lines. "Why does he make me come back every summer Daphne? Why has he
kept me locked? Why does the magical world hate me so much…? I just wanted to
be part of it... part of something!" He was holding his tears in, his hands
closed in fists. "I didn't want to be a weapon or a Savior… I just wanted to
belong…"
For the first time, Daphne could really see it clear as a day. The witch knew
who she was. She had someone to care for her, to nurture her; she had a sister
she loved, and parents who would do anything to keep her safe. Daphne was the
cold bitch who secretly want to be a healer like her mother. She owned who she
was, invented persona or not. They tried to take even that from him.
"Harry, look at me." Her voice was calm, controlled, but full of care and
warmth. "You are not alone. We are here." Daphne placed her free hand on the
boy's cheek, wiping away the tear. "I know we've been talking for just a couple
months now, but I want to believe we have become friends. We will help you find
your place… or we are going to punch our place in the world through that old
bastard's face! Remember what you said to me… for us to not live by the older
generation's standards, to escape their machinations, to make our own mistakes.
That opened my eyes Harry. Please, don't let them do this to you…" Harry looked
at her; she saw so many emotions in those eyes that he was holding in. Anger,
surprise, fear, care… he cared for her… he really did.
She did the only thing she could think of; Daphne threw her arms around his
neck and gave him a hug. She tried to embrace him and all his pain. To show him
she would be there and that she wanted him there with her. Slowly the young
wizard returned the hug. They stayed in each other's arms in silence for a
while. Daphne felt him calming down, his body temperature returning to normal,
his breathing slowing.
"Thank you, Daphne, I am feeling better…" He whispered in her ear, making her
shiver.
"First lesson, no acting before thinking…" Daphne answered, holding him more
strongly.
Harry giggled. "Yes ma'am…"
They parted. Harry looking her in the eyes. "Shit, here I am having a breakdown
in front of one of the most beautiful girls in the school, again… I am
pathetic."
"No self-pity Mr. Potter. It does not fit you, I already told you that. You are
anything but pathetic Harry. I would know. I don't like pathetic people… and I
like you…"
"I like you too Daphne…"
.oOo.
Fleur and Harry had decided to meet at the weird room for the tournament
training on the days the "defense club" didn't have meetings. After their
"dance" together, Fleur was sure Harry was the right training partner. She'd
never felt so in tune with someone as she felt with him. His strengths covered
her weakness and vice versa. "It is a shame this was an individual tournament,
otherwise we would be unstoppable." The thought brought a smile to her lips.
As she expected, several of the Beauxbatons students, specifically some of the
girls moved to cheering openly for Cedric Diggory. She really didn't mind,
until the day one of the girls appeared in class with one if those disgusting
buttons. Fleur discreetly hexed her, and was overjoyed when the girl was moved
to the hospital wing because she was throwing up slugs every time she opened
her mouth.
Harry, himself didn't seem to mind much. After the first meeting, he obviously
had other things in mind. He told her about the floo conversation, and
personally thanked her for accepting Sirius into her house. It was not her
choosing, but she accepted it in her father's name. He smiled so sincerely at
this that she almost couldn't believe how cute he looked. That night they
started with the real training. She helped him with his wand work and focus. He
tested her shields. They exchanged ideas, tactics, and "danced" together yet
again. They both had smiles on their satisfied faces as they lay panting on the
cold wood floor as they cooled down.
"Your wand work is still shit, 'Arry…" Fleur said turning her head to him.
"Hey, it's not easy to concentrate when you are dueling against the most
beautiful woman on this side of the magical world." Harry answered smiling.
She laughed. "Really? That's your excuse?"
"You bent over on propose…"
"Maybe…" they both laughed together feeling truly happy. Fleur sat up and
looked at him. "Thank you 'Arry."
"Why?" The wizard asked, still lying on the floor.
"I almost forgot what it's like to be me… ever since the allure came to me, I
had to learn how to drive people away. It is hard to know who is being truthful
and who was just being caught by it. People changed around me, and I changed
with them..."
"I understand… I really do." He looked directly into her eyes, Fleur could feel
Harry looking at HER, not just her veela. "I like you, both the smiling and
evil Fleur."
"Evil Fleur?" She giggled.
"I like it." Harry looked at the ceiling, blushing a little. "When you walk all
prideful, knowing you are beautiful, or the way you scare the guys that are
drooling over you, or when you are sarcastic with the girls. But I also like
when you show your love and patience for Gabby and Regine, or how loving you
sound talking about your family. I believe both Fleur's are real, and I like
them both." Fleur didn't know how to react. Harry was still lying down, looking
at her in a way Fleur now knew was when he caught her scent.
"Do you have a girlfriend 'Arry?" He finally blushed and looked away.
"No… never had…" He whispered.
"You never took advantage of one of your fan girls?" Fleur said with a smirk.
"Evil Fleur…"
"'Ermione?"
"Can't say I never thought about it, but no."
"She likes you, you know?"
"I do…" He sighed.
"Katie?"
"It's... complicated…" he said with a blush. "But no, she is not my girlfriend.
I haven't ever asked someone out until I asked you, to be honest."
"Now I am flattered…" She giggled.
"And you?" he finally sat up. "Is there a lucky bastard I have to kill back in
France waiting for you? Or … a lucky girl?
"I tried, both." She grinned at his blushing. "But no… there isn't."
They remained in silence, looking at each other. Fleur came a little closer.
"It is hard, isn't it?"
"We are teenagers." Harry said with a laugh. "There is supposed to be drama."
She placed her hand over his. "I want to say I am glad to be your first date,
Harry."
"Me too."
.oOo.
The next day, Katie found herself running alone around the quidditch field.
Ever since she was a kid she enjoyed the feel of running, it made her mind
clearer, her feelings easy to understand. And right now, dressed in a quidditch
jersey, with black leggings and a blue trainer, she needed to think. Not about
adopting another pack, her mind was settled on Harry ever since the night he
was chosen by the Goblet. She needed to think about how to best approach him
and the others. She knew the young wolf had already found his inner circle, but
how would they accept it, would they be able to embrace it and let any
prejudice out?
After many laps, more than she could count, Katie finally stopped to catch a
breath and drink some water, when she caught a now familiar scent. Her inner
wolf whispering in her mind, "alpha." The Witch turned around and looked at
Fleur approaching. "Damn, she is truly beautiful…" the she-wolf mused as she
looked at the French girl. Fleur's silver hair shone in the morning sun like a
halo around her head and shoulders. She moved elegantly in her blue Beauxbatons
uniform which almost the same color of her feral eyes.
"'Ello Katie." Fleur said in an almost friendly tone, as the brunette took a
sip of the water.
"Morning, Fleur… looking for something, are you lost?"
"No, I was actually looking for you."
"There we go." Katie though. "Well, she is a veela and French… I hope she
understands better than the others." But her hopes were not high, at least not
yet. "You found me" the black-haired girl said. "Why do I have a feeling that I
know what this is about…"
Fleur looked at her with curiosity. She elegantly sat on the bench, crossing
her legs and fixing her skirt, trying to look calm, almost distracted.
"Interesting act." Katie thought, but the wolf could smell the Veela's
insecurity. She wasn't nearly as certain of herself as she wanted to believe.
"I wanted to ask you about 'Arry…" The French girl finally said, turning her
predatory gaze on Katie. "She really must scare the little girls" The amused
brunette imagined.
"Hum… what about him?"
Fleur put on her mask of confidence and disdain, but Katie could see right
through it. "What's happening between you two? And I know something is
happening."
"Let's remove the bandage." Katie thought. "Let's test her reaction."
"We have sex, Fleur." Katie said casually, taking another gulp from the bottle
of water. A look of surprise, and a little hurt appeared on the French narrowed
eyes.
"'Arry told me he did not have a girlfriend!"
"He didn't lie, I am not his girlfriend." Katie shrugged, playing Fleur's game
back at her.
Fleur now looked confused and worried. "Is he using you?" She said with a
little anger on her voice, Katie was not sure if for Harry or for herself.
"No, unless I am using him too… Fleur, Harry would never use someone like
that." Katie could not help but be entertained by the confusion she was
witnessing on the goddess of a girl in front of her. How someone like her could
be so insecure about this? It was even funnier than Hermione. "I assume you
know about Harry and professor Remus Lupin?" Katie asked. Fleur nodded
affirmatively. "Ok, let me show you something." Katie put her foot on top of
the bench next to Fleur and lifted the left side of her leggings, exposing her
scar. "You will learn about it at some point anyways, if you want to stay with
us…"
"You are also cursed…" The veela said in a whisper, comprehension dawning on
her.
"Damn, I hate that word." Katie sighed.
"Sorry."
"But yes, and I am helping Harry deal with his urges, while dealing with my
own."
Fleur looked thoughtfully at the young woman in front of her, narrowing her
eyes. Katie sat beside her, looking up to the sky. "Fleur, I know it's weird,
but I have chosen to stay with Harry, I will never let him be alone anymore, he
is my pack now… and damn! He is good to ride on…" Fleur blushed and looked with
a little jealousy at the smiling girl. "But I cannot be his mate. Or girlfriend
if you want to call it that."
"Why not?" Fleur asked. Katie could see she was confused.
"He did not choose me…I am not what he needs now, our bond is of a different
kind. I think he didn't even notice he already chose others… may I ask, why are
you so interested?"
Fleur looked out to the field. She sighed. "I guess I thought I could protect
him, I had my heart broken before, and didn't want him suffer through it. Silly
I know, who am I to decide if anyone is good or not for him. But he killed a
basilisk and never asked a girl out. You are older and have more experience
than him, I was afraid…"
"Aren't you also older than him?"
"It's not like that!" Fleur stated.
Katie smiled. "You can't lie to us, you know, just to yourself…" Fleur looked
at her, astonished. The wolf girl grinned at her. For a second the French witch
confidence mask was gone only to return along with a smug face.
"Would you stop having sex with him?" Fleur asked blatantly.
"If you command me, yes. I would miss it, but yes."
"Command? I am not that kind of bint!" Fleur looked offended.
"Of course, not Blondie, but it is in our nature to follow the Alpha…"
.oOo.
Minerva McGonagall could not believe her eyes. For the second time in the old
witch's long life, her favorite students were attempting the unthinkable, or so
most pureblood families would think. Sitting before her, a couple instants
before lunch at the Gryffindor table, her house's table, was one of the most
interesting assemblies of students she'd ever seen. Obviously most of the
participants were members of said house, but with them were two from
Hufflepuff, a Ravenclaw and most importantly four from Slytherin, sitting
together, talking, laughing, and planning for something. To complete the group
there were three students from Beauxbatons, including their own champion.
There was no fighting, only teasing and laughing, as they all worked on a
project. All centered around her two favorite students, Harry and Hermione.
Unaffected by the other students' distrustful looks at them. Minerva felt
tempted to simply walk by the table to try and discover just what they were
working on, but she feared that would ruin the unusual moment of unity.
It was so rare for different houses, different blood status and social classes
to be seen like that, especially after the last war, which had shredded the
very moral fabric of the magical Britain. Wizards exacerbated some of the worst
traits of human prejudice after that. Maybe some long overdue healing was
starting to happen. Maybe that was the true destiny of the so-called boy who
lived, to bring unity, not some half-listened prophecy.
But why does Albus look so concerned then?
.oOo.
After deciding on the schedule for the next defense meeting, Harry quickly
excused himself and left the hall alone. Hermione and Daphne seeing his
concerned frown, made a move to get up, intending to follow him, but with a
smile and a wave, he calmed them down. He needed some time alone to think.
Harry walked through the grounds, absorbing every sound and every smell of the
autumn, absorbing them, trying to understand the different colors he could see
now. The young wolf remembered Bell's book, "we can see magic differently" It
was so true. He passed Hagrid's hut, and came to his tree trunk, between the
lake and the forbidden forest. He imagined he would visit there in his wolf
form too, to rest and get some peace. Then he started laughing a loud, a
maniacal laugh. He had most definitely lost it. He sat down still laughing.
His mentor, the closest he had for a father figure all these years, had lied to
him for who knows how long, his fugitive godfather had just adopted him, a semi
living maniacal sociopath was trying to kill him, someone threw him into this
tournament probably for the same reason and yes, he had a raging hormonal
monster inside him…
And all he could think about was his girl's problems… "What a joke."
But it was true; he couldn't stop thinking of them. Not only that, he was
starting to feel responsible for those in his "club". Blaise, Ginny, and
Neville… all of them and not just as a teacher of sorts, something was shifting
inside him, in Harry's own instincts. And then there was the three girls, he
was utterly attached to all of them, and felt great and awful about it at the
same time, he felt almost possessive of them, and hoped that was the wolf
inside him, not the wizard himself. But again, wasn't Harry the wolf, weren't
they one and the same now?
He fancied Hermione since the last year, although he suspected it had started
even before that. She was incredibly intelligent, quick, and revolutionary in
more than one aspect.
He had always found Daphne the most beautiful girl at the school ever since the
day she abandoned him on the train, years ago. Harry thought she hated him, and
only watched from afar, but now that he got to know how resourceful and
cunning, and yet loving and caring she was, Harry found her even more alluring.
Then there was Fleur, the one who understands him, proud, smart, protective and
powerful, but almost untouchable.
Harry didn't know what to do; the simple thought of losing one of them was
unbearable. He knew Hermione liked him, and Daphne probably fancied him too,
though he didn't know how much. Fleur was a dream… he would take her on their
date, but he knew she was completely out of his league.
Thoughts of himself together with the other girls, and even Fleur at the same
time ran through his mind arousing him. Teenage fantasies rolled through his
mind, before he started feeling guilty. "I am an idiot and a hypocrite, they
would never go for that, and to ask that of any of them is awfully egotistical
of me…" he said to himself. "Katie will laugh her ass off at me…" He chuckled.
Harry let himself calm down.
What was it that Daphne had said about multiple wives anyway…?
.oOo.
Pansy Parkinson looked apprehensively at the fireplace in the Slytherin common
room, waiting. The note she received had an urgent tone that scared her, and
she knew best not to disobey Narcissa Malfoy. The woman had been her tutor
since she was little, teaching her how to behave, and more importantly, how to
make things happen. The older woman even knew how much Pansy despised Draco,
and the girl had a feeling that Narcissa agreed with her, she always sounded
disappointed in how her son turned out like the father. The older witch had
even promised to let Pansy know how to control her fiancé. But now something
else was happening. Something was lurking in the shadows, scaring Narcissa, and
Pansy was afraid it would affect her too. Especially because the old headmaster
was too cunning, the old man had plans inside of his plans.
But Pansy also knew her tutor was an intelligent woman, she would not be
controlled by this old man, the same way she was not controlled by her husband.
There was only one man in the world Narcissa was afraid of, and he was dead,
because of Harry Potter.
.oOo.
Ginevra Weasley was feeling really confused as she walked through the hallways,
all because of that damn green-eyed wizard.
At first the girl thought she had outgrown her crush on him, specifically after
spending time with Harry and Hermione at the burrow. Ginny had discovered that
he was nothing like the books, no powerful hero with well thought out speech
and amazing super powers. He was a boy, powerful, it's true, but also a little
shy, caring and easy to talk to. Her fan girl crush on the boy-who-lived was
gone. Now Ginny had a crush on the real Harry Potter.
Then last year, she and Hermione decided to go a little crazy and be little
teenage rebels, or so Ginny thought at first, they bought a bottle of fire
whiskey using a charm spell and drank it while hiding in the prefect's
bathroom. It was so funny watching Hermione get drunk; she poured the shots
almost like doing an experiment. But then Ginny discovered that her older
friend was really upset by her parents' divorce. It turned Hermione's world
upside down and she also discovered how much Hermione liked Harry, just like
herself, maybe even more… the drunken girls even made a pact to share him,
though they never spoke of that day again.
The idea of competing with Hermione was not a pleasant one, but Ginny knew she
was pretty, funny, intelligent (maybe a little too confident) and played
quidditch, which was a plus in Harry's book, or so she thought, and maybe the
older witch had been serious about sharing. This kind of situation was not
unheard of in the magical world, didn't Tracy Davis' father have two wives?
Yet, Harry was difficult to approach. That overprotective git of a brother of
hers didn't help either. Specifically, after what he tried to pull with
Hermione this summer. Ginny was sure his friendship won't save him from Harry
if he found out what had happened.
Then there was Katie, she was obviously shagging Harry, and Hermione even
seemed ok with it! Then Greengrass showed up, trying to play her sneaky games
with him. Ginny was in a total loss about what to do.
Then the fucking French model appeared. Older, proud, with that weird aura
around her. Shit, she always looks like she is floating! Lavender and Parvati
said that she was a veela, a goddamn veela. Why did she have to keep touching
Harry? She was obviously using her weird veela magic on him.
The other thing she didn't like was being followed (how ironical.).
"Why the hell are you following me Zabini?" She said turning to the tall dark
boy walking behind her, his eyes were amber colored, and his Italian hereditary
could be seen on his nose and jaw, he was slim, and his movements were elegant
and precise.
"I am not following you Weasley." He said with a sigh. "In case you don't
remember, we are going to the same place." She blushed, indeed they were.
They walked on in an uncomfortable silence for a couple minutes, when Blaise
asked. "I heard you were going to try for the quidditch team this year. You
play seeker, right?" The wizard raised his eyebrows curiously.
"Yeah, if it wasn't for this stupid Triwizard thing…" Ginny said with disdain,
this tournament had been nothing but headaches for her.
"Harry said you are very good."
"He said?" She sounded a little happier than she wanted to show. "Wait, since
when do you talk with Harry."
"Well, we sit together in a number of classes now". The Italian wizard shrugged
with a smile. "He is really a cool guy, and he is trying to get rid of house
rivalries…"
"Wait, you play seeker too, don't you!" Ginny finally realized. "I remember the
game that Davis threw Malfoy on the ground and you replace him… you are miles
better than that git!" And he really was, maybe as good as her, she thought. He
gave her a sad smirk.
"I know… but my mother is not as influential as his father, or as rich, so
there I am, on the bench." Ginny realized he sounded more tired than sad.
"That arse…" the red-haired witch said as they arrive at the room's door. Harry
started calling it the room of requirement. It suited the place. Inside there
were some new faces. Her twin brothers had joined with Angelina and Alicia,
Neville had brought Hanna Abbot and Susan Bones from Hufflepuff, and Ginny
herself had called Luna Lovegood to join in.
Susan approached Harry with watery eyes and talked with him in a low voice, the
raven boy smiled tenderly at her and gave her a hug, and Ginny thought. "No!
Not one more, fuck!" Harry came back and divided them in groups again.
"Ginny, Blaise and Tracy" He said in a commanding voice that made her shiver.
"Your hexes have a good potency, but you need to learn how to defend
yourselves, it's not always possible to be on the offensive. You need to
practice shielding yourself and then others. After that let's see if you can
improve those hexes to something even more powerful." Unfortunately for Ginny,
the French blonde was the one training them tonight. Blaise was a little shaky
at first and Ginny frowned at Tracy.
"It will be hard to train you with that bulge in your trousers, Zabini!" The
blond Slytherin joked, Ginny laughed with her, making the boy bend and blush
furiously. He looked at them with murderous intent in his eyes, making them
laugh even more. The French witch showed them how to improve their shield spell
and watched as they practiced. Ginny was not happy about being bossed around by
the veela, but had to admit she knew what she was talking about.
"Are you gonna wear that face the entire night?" Blaise asked her.
"Is the only one I have…" She answered him, angrily.
"Never mind Zabini, she's just jealous," Tracy said with evil smirk. Ginny
wanted to hex her so bad, but she restrained herself. That was just how Tracy
acts with everyone, no filter between mind and mouth, much like herself
sometimes...
"Right, I think we can test your shields now." Fleur said, and Ginny could
swear there was an evil grin on her face. The sequence of stinging hexes was
fast and brutal, Ginny could shield herself from the first ones, but as Fleur
increased the speed it became almost impossible. After the three of them got
stung without mercy, Harry called the meeting over. Fleur gave a predatory
smiling to the hurting group in front of her.
"I like her!" Tracy commented to her companions as they walked out in pain.
"Are you crazy." Ginny answer in between her teeth. "She is evil!"
"I like her because she is evil!" Tracy finished as all three of them laughed.
"See, way better Weasley, you look much prettier smiling." Blaise said calmly,
looking at her. Ginny blushed and the Slytherins laughed even more.
HPHPHP
Albus Dumbledore got the big pile of parchments and put it away in his personal
travelling stash as he gathered himself for one more draining day of politics
while his students, his children, got a free day for themselves. He did
everything for his children. He would not fail them again.
They were the reason he accumulated the position of chief warlock of the
Wizengamot and Hogwarts headmaster. Some people say it was too much power in
one man's hand. But it was his way to keep his kids safe. As he looked out the
window of his office at his students getting ready for their short trip to
Hogsmeade to have a pleasant autumn day. He once again let the weight of his
realization fall over his shoulder, and felt all his long years falling over
him.
Some kids were more important than others.
And some had to be sacrificed for the others to live to their fullest.
He took his stash, walked to the fireplace and said. "Ministry of magic." Then
disappeared in a flash of green flames.
.oOo.
Harry felt more than little nervous. Just Like he did before an important
quidditch match. The young wizard had never gone on a date before. He should
have taken Hermione last year, but didn't out of respect for Ron, who doesn't
even speak to them anymore, what a waste. At least the red-haired boy doesn't
wear one of those stupid bottoms.
Harry really wanted to take all three girls, but he realized it was not a good
idea. It was Hermione who suggest taking Fleur, not only because she didn't
know the settlement, but Harry and the foreign girl had a lot to talk about.
That left Harry a little confused. It was a little weird how well Hermione
dealt with both Fleur and Daphne, even becoming friends with the French witch.
"Here I am having illusions of grandness again." He thought. "As if I will end
up with any of them." He concluded and smiled, as he waited at the castle's
gates. He tried his best to look good, without forgetting to be himself. Harry
did not try to copy the super fancy pureblood style, leaving that for the
Wizengamot meetings of the future. How good it was to imagine a future… Harry
put on his best new jeans, cleaned his red converse sneakers, a white
undershirt and a red and black plaid shirt over it. He had to transfigure some
of the items, as the wizard realized he had grown around one and a half inches
since the term started, he didn't know exactly why, but was not complaining.
His hair was a lost cause, no matter what potion, muggle lotion or anything he
used, it was barely tamed at best. Maybe there was some magic involved. A
jacket over all and the good casual looking teen was ready.
Dobby then brought him a charmed basket that kept the food fresh all day. The
Three Broomsticks would be packed, and it was a nice autumn day.
Harry watched the students get into the carriages looking happy, friends and
couples, some students from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang going too. That was
something worth fighting for that was a magical world he wanted to save… He
waved to the twins, escorting Angelina, Alicia, and a very happy Regine. Harry
knew something was happening there, he could feel all five smells mixed up in
all of them during the last defense meeting. If they were having fun, who was
Harry to judge.
Hermione, Daphne and Tracy came down the path to the carriages next. Harry was
baffled. Hermione was wearing a casual muggle outfit, tight jeans and blue
tennis with a rainbow-like belt. She had a white blouse with a generous
neckline, falling over her left shoulder, revealing the strap of a black tank
top. The graphics on her blouse were of a stylized fist inside of a heart.
Probably from one of the muggle bands she liked so much. Her untamed hair
floated curly around her head, giving her a strong and independent look. She
was beautiful in a strong way. At her left, Daphne was a vision. Harry always
thought of her as the most beautiful girl in the school, even on par with
Fleur. Her midnight black hair was straight and flowed flawless over her
shoulders contrasting beautifully with her marble skin and almost grey eyes.
Ice queen all right. She was wearing a neck tight blouse, with lace details
both at the neckline and wrists. Her skirt resembled the uniform one, but in a
dark green with dark purple lines, also suggestively higher than regulation.
Her legs seemed to go forever, covered in a black mid-thigh stocking which he
could see the top of when she walked. A pair of black leather boots with metal
spherical pins completed the looks. At her side Tracy was wearing a blue skirt
too small for any regulation. Knee high boots and a nicely fit shirt, with the
top bottoms unbuttoned just enough for people to get lost in it. And their
scents, if only he could only smell it for the rest of his life; he would be
happy. The wizard damned his teen hormones as he felt himself get hard. The
smile on the girls faces telling him that was exactly the reaction they were
looking for.
"You can stop drooling now Potter, you will get yours later." Tracy said with
an evil grin and a wink, as Hermione rolled her eyes. Hermione gave him a kiss
on the cheek. "Have fun on your date Harry, you deserve it."
Daphne gave him a hug, pressing her body to his, much closer than needed, and
whispered in his ears. "Have fun, but not too much without us." The words sent
shivers over his body.
"Teaser." Harry answered and watched the three girls get in a carriage as they
laughed at him. He felt confused, but happy at the same time.
Then Harry saw her.
Descending the path, looking like she was floating, the morning sun reflecting
off her platinum hair and a smile just as shining. Fleur was wearing a pearl
strapped dress that fit her breasts and waist perfectly. Under her waist the
dress was flowing and danced around her legs with each step, finishing a couple
inches over her knees. The draped bottom of the dress only accentuates the flow
illusion further. There was a subtle flower pattern over the right side of the
dress, over her shoulders there was a short jacket and red shoes with a small
purse completed her outfit. Harry couldn't speak; just look astonished as she
approached.
"Goodness." He half said, half stuttered when he finally got to speak again.
"You look beautiful Fleur…"
Thank you 'Arry." She answered, giving him a kiss on the cheek, her scent
making Harry almost jump in delight. "You look good yourself." Harry catches
the "evil" Fleur smile for a second and the wolf scratched the back of his
mind.
Harry helped her into the carriage and for a second debated if he should sit
next to her. Gathering all his courage, he sat down on her left side. She slid
closer to him, their shoulders touching, as soon as the door closed. Harry was
again hit with a nostalgic warm feeling and drank in her scent. Fleur looked at
him as he got stiff with the sudden proximity, giving a beautiful knowing
smile.
"Evil Fleur…" He said rolling his eyes.
"I know, what about that basket 'Arry?
"You will see."
.oOo.
Ronald Weasley watched as the carriages departed. A feeling of anger came over
him as he watched Harry enter one with the French veela. His so called "mate"
had taken Hermione from him, was on the quidditch team, had managed to enter
the Triwizard tournament and had money. Now he had a veela whore. Ron doesn't
even have clothes of his own. Not even his brothers believed him about how bad
Harry was. He had seen Harry's true eyes that day and those were evil eyes, he
knew.
Ron was fuming, he had enough. Enough of dangerous adventures, enough of
picking brothers, enough of Harry Potter.
"Hello Weasley." Ron froze; he turned around to the knowing feminine voice.
Drawing his wand.
"I am not in the mood… wait, where is Blondie?" Ron asked. In front of him he
could see Pansy Parkinson, but no Draco Malfoy. Behind her a couple steps he
saw Crabbe and Goyle, but they were looking to the carriages, not at him.
"That lame excuse of an heir is at his daddy's lap crying over something… some
family crises or whatever. Fuck him… I am here to talk to you Wesley."
"And why would you want to talk to me Parkinson? I just want to be left alone."
"There is a seizure in power happening Wesley. Because of your little friend…"
"He is not my friend… not anymore…"
Pansy Parkinson smiled, looking hungrily at the red head boy.
"What about some retribution, Ronald…" she finally said.
.oOo.
Albus Dumbledore pinched the bridge of his nose. Those small people were so
tiresome, always so caught up in their own small feuds about money and illusory
power, they all lost sight of the Greater Good that lay ahead. But thankfully,
the day was almost finished.
He got some new legislation on the control of dark creatures, specifically
werewolves passed, that way he could keep a closer eye on Lupin, the Bells and
others of their kind and when the time comes, Harry. To do that he had to give
up some control of Hogwarts to Dolores and the ministry. Smart player this one,
he must be more careful around the small bitter woman. He would need to remind
her who was truly in control. For now, what the ministry wanted was almost
harmless, to get a registry of the classes and active control of all the
muggleborn and half-bloods. In the end that would serve his own purposes as
well. Amelia Bones did not seem pleased about that, which was a plus.
"The floor is now open to the honorable members of the council." He said with
his magical amplified voice hoping to finish as fast as he could, so he could
get back to his quarters at the school for some sweet liquor and a nice food.
The ever-weak Lucius Malfoy stood up. Dumbledore looked at him with a pinch of
disgust, weak man of a weak house, climbed to some power because his marriage
to a formidable woman and Tom's machinations before the last war. "There
appears to be some mistake in the records concerning Gringotts. Although I'm
the father and guardian to the Black family heir, my access to its assets had
been terminated." Always about money… Albus closed his eyes. "Neither I nor my
wife could get answers from the goblins. For that I intend to make a formal
complaint and demand this council seek reparations for an insult to both the
Malfoy house and the most ancient and noble house of Black."
"You should know by now Lord Malfoy", Artus Greengrass stood from his seat
turning every head to him. Dumbledore looked at him with concern, something had
happened, he could see it now, and if Lord Greengrass was involved, it could
not good. "The goblins do not commit those kinds of mistakes. I actually have
information concerning that matter and others that I desire to give to lady
Bones, as it concerns her as the head of the DMLE."
"What are you trying to say Lord Greengrass?" The fierce woman said, looking at
her old ally with hard eyes.
"I have here some documentation that sheds light not only on the Black assets
situation, but also on a number of irregularities concerning not only the
current Lord Black, but Harry Potter as well." Dumbledore eyes widened as he
watched Lord Greengrass produce the parchments, and with a swift move of his
wand move it, not to his table, as it should, but directly to Amelia Bones.
"There is no current Lord Black!" Lucius Malfoy screamed from his seat. "Not
until my son comes of age!"
Dumbledore ignored the man and watched as lady Bones read the parchments, her
eyes going wide. A flick of her wand testing for altering magic, only to find
none.
"I would like to move an action to investigate the reasons why the Potter's
will wasn't read." Lord Greengrass said with commanding tone. "And the
whereabouts of the same. I would also ask for an investigation into the reasons
why the scion of the Potter family was never moved to his original designated
magical guardians and put under the care of the headmaster and chief warlock
Albus Dumbledore, giving him access to the Potter assets." Dumbledore watched
as the eyes of the head of the DMLE stared at him with each request from Lord
Greengrass.
"And with the support of the French minister of magic and the legal backing of
these adoption papers, I move to reopen the case against Lord Sirius Black, as
it's proven that a trial or conviction of any sort was never held before Lord
Black was thrown in Azkaban!"
Albus Dumbledore watched astonished as all hell broke loose in the Wizengamot.
.oOo.
Fleur was having an amazing time. Hogsmeade was overflowing with students from
Hogwarts, friends and couples having fun, buying gifts and spending time trying
to know the foreign visitors outside the school environment. Fleur loved the
welcoming feeling of the town. There were stores for everything you could need,
from candy to books, to brooms. But it was all made even better by her company.
From the moment she entered the carriage Harry had been great, he told her
about the thestrals, talked about the village and when they arrived he was
genuinely curious about her own view of things. "Back in France," she said to a
curious Harry. "We are a little more integrated with non-magical people; there
is no place with only wizards like this village."
"It is a double-edged sword, don't you think?" The young wizard asked her with
a thoughtful look.
"Why?"
"Because, you may lose the awe of places like Hogsmeade, but the idea of a more
integrated and tolerant world seems great! Non-magical people have amazing
things of their own, like movies and music."
"I think you can say zat…" She shrugged.
"What do you like to do at home? To pass your time?"
"Other than seduce little wizards?" She said coming closer to him and running a
finger through his shirt with an evil smile.
"Damn evil witch… You are trying to kill me!" They laughed a little of the
tension away.
"I like to spend time with Gabby of course." She said a little more serious.
"And play music. When it is warm I like to go to the beach to swim and get a
tan…" she looked at silly grin on Harry's face and giggled.
"You said you play music? Like, actually sing or play an instrument?" He said
clearly trying not to linger on the images she just put in his head.
"I couldn't sing to save my life." She laughed. "I play the Viola."
"I hope I can visit one day and hear you play."
"Or see me at the beach." Now he blushed, and she giggled again.
After a while, they came across Regine, Angelina, Alicia and the twins at Madam
Puddifoot's Tea Shop. The girls quickly excused the boys to go to the Quidditch
sports shop. They all sat at the table, Fleur with an espresso with cream and
the others with some mocha. "So?" Regine promptly asked. The other two girls
looking at her too.
"So, what?" Fleur took a sip, pretending not to know.
"Come on Fleur." Angelina asked. "That is our little brother there! Is he
behaving?" Fleur was once again astonished by the kind of loyalty Harry
inspired.
"Although Katie says he is not little…" Alicia said with a grin.
"Or easy to tire…" Angelina continued, and Fleur blushed, without knowing why.
"He has been the perfect date." Fleur said rolling her eyes. "And not everyone
is as sexually obsessed like you girls." She said in a joking voice.
"Hey, we're just having fun!" Regine faked an outrage. She had already talked
about her situation with Fleur, the veela knew that the twins, Angelina and
Alicia all dated each other, and Regine had accepted their invitation to have
some fun. Fleur was more than ok with that. Her veela nature helped the witch
see sexuality as something normal and beautiful, so long as everyone involved
was willing to participate, but teasing her best friend was also fun.
"You know I love you…" Fleur teasingly kissed Regine's cheek. "I don't know, he
is a little young."
"Bullshit" Angelina said with a wave of her hand. "My Mom is five years older
than my father. Harry has survived more than most old men, suffered more than
most, damn; he is more mature than Fred and George! Combined!"
"If he is so young for you," Alicia continued, as she played with her cup" why
did you declined all other blokes to come here with him?"
Fleur thought about it for a while, she didn't know.
"Anyway Fleur, he is our little brother, and if you hurt him we will break your
legs…" Angelina said in a casual tone causing Fleur to laugh. When the boys
returned, Harry was as red as their hair. Fleur could only imagine the teasing
he must have endured. Lunch time was close, and Fleur was starting to get
hungry.
"So, the Three Broomsticks will be full, but I have promised you some
butterbeer, don't worry, I got this." Harry said with a smile as they headed to
the pub.
On the way, they came across Hermione, Daphne and Tracy, carrying shopping bags
and chatting happily. Fleur got a little nervous, she knew at least Hermione
and probably Daphne fancied Harry. Probably even more than just fancy. She
really had come to like the girls and didn't want to change that. But to her
surprise, the girls were incredibly polite, they joined the couple on the way
and talked about their purchases, and even gossip with Fleur a little. For the
first time Fleur felt included, wanted, "I can grow to like that", she thought.
The Three Broomsticks was really packed as Harry said, about an hour of
waiting, but Harry smiled at her and winked. "Hey Rose!" He called at the door.
"Harry!" The attendant said back with a big smile. "So good to see you my boy.
If you want a table I can kick someone out for you!"
"Please don't do that Rose, but if I can have some butterbeer to take out would
be great!" The woman flicked her wand and four bottles traveled to Harry. He
picked them up and shoved them in the basket, then turned to Hermione, Daphne
and Tracy. "Rose will get you a table, unless you want to join us for a
picnic."
"Thank you, Harry." Hermione said looking at Fleur, giving her a nod. "You two
go ahead and have fun."
As they left the pub Fleur asked.
"A picnic?"
.oOo.
"Sooooo… what's the plan?"
"What are you talking about Tracy?" Hermione asked sitting at the table.
As Harry predicted, Rose was fast in getting his three friends a table close to
the windows. Three bottles of butterbeer appeared at their table as soon as
they were seated. Tracy didn't lose any time either.
"Come on. I can understand the little friendly competition between the smartest
witch of her age and the ice queen of Slytherin over the boy who lived." She
put a lot of emphasis on the titles. "It's even fun watching you all blushy and
fluffy. But you are both Hogwarts's. So, what are we going to do about the
French sexy model? I mean, I like her, she can be super mean, but she is not a
sister."
The other two witches looked at her, eyes widened before laughing. "What?"
"It's not for us to decide don't you think? There is another very interested
part in this little conspiracy of yours." Hermione said taking a sip from her
beer.
"Nah, you and your muggle morals, we witches know what is better for our
wizards! Daphne?"
"I will not do anything…"
"WHAT! Why?" Tracy looked genuinely surprised.
"Because I don't want anyone interfering when it's my turn." Daphne said with
an evil grin.
"You girls are insane! She… Is… A…Veela!" The blond shot her hand in the air,
in an overdramatic move.
"And the allure doesn't work on Harry for some reason, although I have some
theories." Hermione said and both girls looked at her curiously. "Later…" She
waved.
"Anyway, some other things came up; anyone who wants to be with him may have to
learn to share anyway." Daphne stated looking at Hermione.
"Wait, you are not taking this to serious?" Tracy interrupted. "I am talking
about some good snogging, maybe a nice shagging after a while, not something
for the long run! Not marriage!"
"Harry would never get involved with someone if he can't to devote himself and
make it work." Daphne said looking over her bottle at a very astonished
Hermione. "We… talked a lot over in the hospital wing." She admitted to the
brunette.
"If he is so noble like that, what about Katie Bell? They keep saying they are
not together, but sometimes he shags her until she can't walk right." Both
other girls blushed. Tracy laughed at the mixture of shame and lust on their
faces. Hermione talked first.
"Katie's situation is completely different…" she looked at Daphne, who nodded
in understanding. "But you fool yourself if you think she is not there for him
for the long term. Even if they stop having sex, Katie will still be there, and
he would still be there for her. But I believe he would let the person he is
with decide about her joining in or not."
"You witches are crazy and like to talk in riddles…" Tracy moved her hands in
surrender.
"Also…" Hermione said in just a little more than a whisper. "I don't mind
sharing…"
Tracy had a big smile on her face, almost predatory. "You don't?"
"That is just a social convention, if it prevents you from being happy, to hell
with it!"
Daphne looked at Tracy in disbelief. "I like the new Hermione!" She said
lifting her bottle and they laughed. Lunch arrived, and they ate in almost
complete silence, each absorbing the conversation in their own way. After they
finished, Hermione looked at the two girls.
"Now, about Fleur, there is something I noticed. Do you remember the night she
arrived? A month and a half ago? Do you remember the effect of her allure? Some
boys couldn't even talk to her." The other two nodded. "Now think about our
last meeting, or even our meeting with her here. Did you notice something?"
"Yes. Now that you say that." Daphne quickly picked up. "The effect is much
less now."
"Yea, it is still there of course, and I am sure she can use and direct it if
she wishes… But the residual effect is much less… I wonder what happened. There
is almost nothing about veela in the library." Hermione finished her curiosity
coming out.
"Maybe it's because of Harry" offered Tracy.
.oOo.
Harry chose a beautiful and quiet space, under a big oak tree, with most of its
leaves already an earthy orange tone. The smell of the tree, combined with the
lilies from Fleur's scent, had a calming effect on him that he appreciated.
"That is a beautiful spot 'Arry" Fleur said looking around. "Why is it so calm?
There is almost no one around."
"People think there is a monster in the house down there." He said with a
shrug. "But it was just professor Lupin last year…" Harry took a blanket from
the basket and laid it on the ground for them to sit. Fleur giggled at the
idyllic scene.
"He is the one who bit you, yes?" She finally asked.
"Yes, it was me or Hermione, and I made my choice. For once it's something I
can accept. Here" He said giving her a bottle of butterbeer, still cold from
the charms on the basket. "Let it not be said that I don't keep my promises."
He laughed.
Harry watched as the beautiful witch took a sip and made a disgusted face. "Mon
dieu! How come you English are not a band of obese whales with this much
sugar!"
"I see you know uncle Vernon…" Harry instantly kicked himself for making that
comment, of course Fleur caught it, and although he felt she wanted to pursue
the subject, thankfully she didn't.
"If Rose could get us a table, why not have lunch there? Not that I am
complaining, I actually like it here." Fleur asked looking around. "Maybe a
conspiracy to get me alone, monsieur wolf?"
"Too many people. Lots of noise and smells, I thought it would be hard to
focus…"
"That's the reason you are always eating early." She whispered as understanding
dawned on her. He smiled at her
"Anyways, after you complained so much about our food, nah, don't look me like
that, you know you did. I thought you may not like the butterbeer, so I asked
Dobby for this." Harry put his hands on the basket and produced a bottle of a
Domaine Romaneaux-Destezet Syrah, Harry had learnt to select table wines from
his time preparing Sunday meals for the Dursley's. Fleur's face brightened up,
and he knew it was worth it; Dobby had to do some travelling to get him a
bottle. He poured her a glass and started pulling food out of the basket. A
selection of breads, croissants, a Mediterranean salad and a smoked fish. Harry
explained he got some money so Dobby could arrange the fish. Fleur smiled as
they eat and talked more about her family and life in France. She wanted to
know more about his life outside the school, but sensing his discomfort, didn't
press him.
After the meal Harry put the dishes and leftovers back in the basket. Fleur
moved closer to him; he noticed her cheeks were a little red from the wine.
"You, Mister, zis trouble…" she said with a dizzy smile.
"Am I now?"
"Ask 'Ermione, or Daphne…" she giggled. Her face turned a little more serious.
"'Arry, I got something for you." He looked at her curiously as she took a book
from her purse. "Tell me, how much you know about your godmother?"
"Alicia Longbottom? I know she is Neville's Mom, and is at St. Mungo's…" Fleur
expression was one of confusion.
"Who told you that?"
"The headmaster." Harry expression hardened as he remembered the lies, and his
instincts calling the old wizard dangerous.
"'Arry, that woman is not your godmother…" she handled him the book, Harry saw
it was a photo album, and his eyes widened at the sight in front of him. There
they were, smiling and waving at him. It was a different picture from the only
one he had ever seen of his parents. They looked so happy. The nostalgic
sensation hit him, he saw a baby that could only be himself, holding hands with
a small girl that he recognized as Fleur instantly.
"How… why… why didn't you tell me?"
"We... weren't sure how much you knew… Sorry… papa and mama looked so much for
you… I was not sure… I was afraid you hated us…" Fleur looked ashamed. "But
then it was clear you didn't even know us…" She pointed to the blond woman on
the right side of his mother. "That is your godmother 'Arry, Apolline Delacour,
my mama. Look at the album." Harry turned the pages, almost afraid of losing
the moment, but there they were again. His parents, Sirius, Remus with a man
Harry didn't know and Fleur's parents. There he was, with her, playing at the
beach, at a manor… at some photos Fleur pointed to some of the other kids and
babies… Regine and Daphne.
"Those were taken just a little before the violence escalated out of control.
Mama said they kept meeting to have hope for the future, our future. The death
eaters weren't their only enemy it seems… but they wanted to keep living."
"What happened? Why are you and Daphne not close then?"
"Everything fell apart when… it happened… and you disappeared. Sirius went to
Azkaban, Remus disappeared drowning in grief, the Greengrass's and my parents
kept their distance, afraid of their political adversaries… oh Harry, they were
so happy when you came back… they sent you so many letters, but you never wrote
back. I am betting you never even received them…"
"No. I would never…"
"They knew… it was all a mess of a situation, they thought Sirius had betrayed
your parents, Lupin didn't want to contact anyone. I thought you had forgotten
us. It took me a while to muster courage to write you…" she hugged him
tentatively, tears I'm her eyes. "We… I am sorry… "
The feeling of her embrace was so good, so warm, in a sea of coldness. He was
even surer now that his isolation had been intentional. He hugged her back
letting her know he didn't blame her. "Thank you, Fleur…" he said handing her
the book.
"Non 'Arry, it's yours, a reminder you are not alone, never again…"
***** Chapter 10 *****
AN: I don't own or make money on this
Big thanx to AWR and Master42 for the beta reading and ideas, and to
TheDeadDodo for helping with editing, you guys rock! Also my quest to refine
the first chapters is a little slow, but it's happening.
Some reviews and pms asked about Katie, i am trying to give each char a time on
the spotlight, so don't worry, she is in no way forgotten, remember, only her
share a big part on Harry's life, but i like focusing on certain characters at
times=]
thank you for reading and sorry for anything! ^^
Chapter 10
I had been bitten, by my own mother in the year of 1758, at the age of five. I
understand why some people may find it a terrible thing to happen, but there
are reasons why it is made this way. When bitten at a younger age we have more
time to learn how to deal with the way we see magic, to learn about the pack
and our bodies. And most importantly, is easier to learn how to deal with the
rage.
To become the wolf is more than just been  bitten . Many of the people, who
were bitten, actually are unable to become the wolf. They are too devoted to
the wizards views about magic and the so called dark creatures, that they
become trapped. For those, the wolf ended up being really the curse they had
being led to believe all their lives. Draining their magic and body, killing
them slowly. They became but shadows of both wolf and man, dependent on 
Wolfsbane  potions and chains like animals. Others became consumed by the rage.
Usually people of malevolent tendencies that are bitten later in life or in
pure search of power. Those become monsters, killers and cannibals, the ones
who gave us the fame of dark creatures, they are our own sins.
The rage that burns within is not an easy thing to cope with. It may drive some
crazy, especially those without the support of a pack. The overwhelming notion
of magic as an amoral force of nature, where there is no superior good or evil
to guide you, sometimes can be too much, driving some insane. All the burning
rage can lead many to murder, rape or suicide. The same forces that set us
free… can break us.
To become the wolf is to walk the most dangerous path without losing yourself.
It's terrifying, but the reward is a complete different view of the world,
magic and it's creatures. One that is more complete and fulfilling. One that is
free.
That is the reason we try to teach our young from a tender age, so they can
have time to learn.
The first thing we teach them is how to not lose themselves under the influence
of the full moon, to let themselves go with the instincts, but remaining
conscious of who they are. With that they can not only control themselves, but
also remember…
They can start becoming the wolf.
.oOo.
As he waited, seated on the big armchair of his office in Hogwarts, surrounded
by piles of books and weird little magical instruments, designed to watch over
his students, the headmaster Albus Percival Dumbledore, reflected about the
happenings of the last two days. The Wizengamot council was immersed in total
chaos at the moment. Amelia Bones had gripped the chance to reopen the case
about her former lover with haste, and a passion he had rarely saw coming from
the head usually cold head of the DMLE. Soon, too many questions would be asked
about the Potters' will and Albus little order. Maybe it would even end up with
someone stumbling on the prophecy, The Greengrass / Black affair would be
public in just a matter of time, and he may lose the grip on his golden boy,
the foundation of the new order to come after the dark lord's defeat. Maybe
Dolores Umbrige's idea had merit after all. Weren't both boy and girl not even
fully humans anyway? The headmaster may have to speed up his plans. And for
that he had requested the presence of Harry is his office.
Precisely on time, Harry arrived at the room. "Good night sir, you asked for
me?" The boy said without looking the headmaster in the eyes. He seemed
distracted by something, looking around without really focusing on anything.
"Yes, Harry my boy. First let me ask, after a couple of moon cycles at the
school, how have you been feeling?" The headmaster asked with a caring voice,
and looking concerned under his half-moon shaped glasses.
"It still weird, I will admit, sir, it also drains me a lot. I am glad
professor Snape's potions are able to help me with it, even if he is not happy
to do so." The boy answered, looking around the room, distracted indeed.
"Although right now I'm more worried about the tournament, as I have no idea
what to expect."
"True indeed Harry m'boy, and that is exactly why I summoned you here. You see,
I am afraid whoever placed your name at the Goblet may try to reach and harm
you in other ways during the tournament. Tell me Harry, have you ever heard
about occlumency?" Albus looked at him, but the boy seemed lost looking at one
of the magic instruments at his table "Why is he not looking at me?" The
headmaster thought.
"No sir." Harry answered distracted.
"It is the ability to protect one's mind from unwanted incursion. I believe
that due the connection you share with Voldemort, and the suspicion we may have
one of his followers working to end you during the tournament, it would be
imperative that you learned occlumency."
"You can teach me sir?" The boy sounded hopeful.
"Look at me dammit" Albus though, he needed access to his mind, and he needed
to be sure of how much Harry knew about the Delacours and Sirius.
"Unfortunately I will not have the time my son. A political tempest approaches,
and it may affect the school greatly. I need to take precautions to protect
both the students and the tournament. But there is another who can. A master
occlumens."
"Who?" Harry sounded disappointed, and tired.
"Professor Snape."
"Why am I not surprised…"
"I know you had your feuds with professor Snape in the past Harry, but rest
assured he is totally trustworthy. I want you to present yourself to him for
lessons in occlumency."
"I will see to it sir. Is that all?"
Really distracted indeed, maybe it is the effect of the altered wolfsbane
potions. "Yes Harry you may go."
.oOo.
Harry moved fast through the castle's hallways on his way to the seventh floor.
He was desperately trying to calm himself. "He really did try." Harry thought.
"Just like Daphne and Fleur warned me, the old man really tried to read my
mind!" The painful tug on the back of his head fanning his wolf instincts,
serving as a painful reminder of his lost trust on the elderly headmaster.
He arrived at the room of requirement just to find a door already in place. As
Dobby had explained, if he could see the doors, it meant he was expected. He
entered just to find Daphne reading a book, sat down on a luxurious couch, with
her legs over the soft stew, in front of a din fireplace. The reflection of the
fire on her hair was of a beautiful reddish tone, she was still in her school
uniform, without the robes, her legs over the couch revealing a delicious
amount of ivory thighs. Harry gulped, her blueberry scent hitting him as soon
as he crossed the doorway.
"Enjoying the view Potter?" Daphne said with beautiful and scary grin.
"Definitely." Harry knew her game; they had played it many times. She would
tease him, test him, and he enjoyed it. It was her way of opening up from her
normal cold self. The young wizard sat down on her side and buried his face on
his hands, with a loud and tired sigh.
"He tried to read your mind, like we thought?" The pretty Slytherin asked and
Harry nodded sadly, without looking at her. He felt her arms around his neck
and lifted his head to see that Daphne had shifted her body in his direction,
the book closed, resting her head on his shoulders. "I am sorry, I know how
much he meant to you."
Harry gazed at her, thinking about the last two and a half months. How she came
to know and trust him, he remembered their first night at the hospital wing,
remembered her comforting him after talking to Sirius. When the lessons about
the wizard society and the teasing began. She taught him how to become more
connected with his own hereditary at the same time that she voiced her hope
that Harry could grow and help her and everyone else break beyond their own.
Daphne showed him her real self, more than an ice queen, a sexy, teasing and
intelligent young woman, as cunning, and she was caring of the ones she loved.
Ambitious and eager. He even remembered the first time he really laid eyes on
her at the second year, and thought she was beautiful, and how he felt like she
was familiar even before it, without knowing how, and made a decision, it was
only fair if she wanted to stay near him that he was honest with her. "Daphne,
do you remember professor Remus Lupin?"
Daphne looked at him, sitting straight. "Harry, the night your name came out of
the Goblet and you ended up on the hospital wing, we knew it was magical
exhaustion, but Poppy asked me to run some diagnostic charms for training. I
saw the broken bones, the basilisk poison, the burns and I saw the curse…"
"I am starting to hate that word." Harry rolled his eyes.
"I remember both of us talking that night, we kissed… so, I think I don't
really care… although you don't seem half as ragged as professor Lupin." She
said with an evaluating expression.
"That doesn't scare you?" Harry asked a little uncomfortable. "I am starting to
see this differently now… especially people around me… I am not the same person
i was last year, I am, but I'm not… shit… that didn't make sense."
"It does scare me of course... but it also excites me… I guess you are helping
me see things differently too… and I know about Katie before you ask. She
talked with Hermione, Fleur and me. Hermione even gave me a class about the
effects of your… condition… after Katie talked to us in that school teacher
tone of hers."
"Sounds like her. It is a little weird, Katie kept it secret for all those
years, now she opens up to you." Harry wondered.
"Some side effects Hermione described were really interesting…" she rubbed a
finger over Harry's chest, he understood Daphne wanted to change the subject.
"Maybe one day you should show me…"
"Keep teasing me like that and maybe I will." Harry felt himself getting hard
as the witch looked up with a sultry expression and subtly licked her lips.
"So, what aspect of the beautiful pureblood costumes we are going to review
today." Now he was the one who wanted to change the subject.
"Marriage!" She said in a happy voice
"What? Why?"
She sat straight, with a more serious expression, the one she adopted when she
was teaching him. The true pureblood lady Daphne was educated to be. "Harry, it
will not take long before the Black family affair gets public, and you are also
the heir of another noble house. You should expect some betrothal propositions
very soon."
"Like Malfoy and Parkinson? That actually sounds terrible!" The wizard said
with an angry expression.
"That is how alliances are made and house lines are preserved." Daphne
continued, ignoring his outrage. "Family magic is important. I do see your
point tough, and, as much as I agree with it, sad things will happen anyways.
Both your families are immensely powerful and at least one is incredibly
wealthy. But the most important is the political seats." her hand was going up
and down the young wizard's thigh while she explained, and Harry relinquished
himself to the intimate feeling.
"But I don't want that kind of thing, if I am going to be with someone I don't
want it to be because of some contract." He tried to protest.
"Very noble Potter, but I don't think you should discard the possibility… well,
at least you have to learn how to write a polite decline…" Daphne finished, in
an assertive voice.
In a surge of courage, Harry moved his hand to her knee; she raised an eyebrow,
but kept smiling. "Now that you said that, isn't it weird I never received one
for the Potter's line?" Harry felt Daphne shivering under his touch, making
himself feel even more confident.
"Hmmmm…" The witch let a pleased sigh out. "The Potters were always notoriously
against it… but it is true… specifically after your parents…" He nodded,
reassuring her. "Unless someone is blocking it, or there is an already active
one…" The ding sounds startle both teens, announcing that someone was at the
door. Time for the meeting.
.oOo.
Fleur entered the small improvised headmistress's office inside the Beauxbatons
carriage. Madam Maxine was enormously sat in the chair, her magnificent size
making the office and the piles of parchments around appear even smaller. It
would be almost comical if the woman didn't have an enraged semblance holding a
paper that she handed to the young witch as soon as she sat down. "This is
outrageous, how could that terrible little woman write something like that? Is
insulting!"" The woman yelled in French.
Confused, Fleur looked at the paper, seeing a big picture of Harry and her at
the wand weighing ceremony night. She quickly read the piece in question,
accusing the veela of using her "less than human" charms to steal the boy's
heart and will, painting Fleur like some kind of scarlet woman and Harry like a
lost little boy, the very same person they called the "boy who cheated" a
couple months ago. Fleur remembered that night well, how Harry's wand showed
way more signs of use than any other, and how both of them were close to each
other. It was no secret they were friends, at least not in the school. She told
him about her grandmother's string of hair, and he was genuinely fascinated,
just like . Fleur also remembered the annoying and poorly dressed little woman
making impolite questions, and how she wished to burn her because of how she
glued herself to the young wizard. All in all, after reading the article from
start to finish, she could see that it was just a piece of pureblood
propaganda, and smiling, she realized it didn't matter. "I don't care…" she
said calmly to the complete astonishment Maxine. "Everyone can think whatever
they want, I don't care. As long as Harry and I know the truth."
"Fleur! Being close to this boy is damaging your image! And the school's image
too!" Madam Maxine hit both hands on the paper, in angry disbelief.
"You are naive if you think that headmistress." Fleur raised her head proudly.
"They don't like me because I am a veela and a champion. Because I had the
audacity of being better them the so called pure ones… and they hate him
because he doesn't care about that!" Maxine eyes widened. "And you are a fool
if you think my parents won't seek reparations, in a swift and destructive way…
you should be concerned about more important things." Fleur returned her the
paper, opened on the article about professor Hagrid.
Fleur got up, standing proud and leaving a startle Maxine to her own thoughts.
Walking out of the small office, the witch realized that she indeed felt pride.
Harry and herself had become even closer after their hogsmeade date, and she
saw that, not only the young man, but also all of his close friends had come to
accept her for who she was. She was Fleur Delacour, top student, champion,
duelist and a veela, there was no point in hiding it. They were not just
Harry's friends anymore, Hermione, Daphne and Katie were also her friends now.
Talking with Harry and Katie, she also could see some compelling parallels
between their own condition, and being a veela. The obvious ones, the passion
and the outbursts of emotions were the first ones Fleur noticed, but the most
intriguing were about the magic itself. Both of them, specifically Katie, saw
magic differently than most wizards and witches, or better saying, felt magic
differently. They talked about smells, and dancing colors, and for the first
time outside her own family, Fleur had the courage to speak about how veela
felt the emotions around her, about how, to them, magic and emotion were the
same thing. Fleur also noticed that something had happened to her allure. She
felt like it had been tamed somehow. If Fleur concentrate herself, she could
have it working at full force still, but in normal times, it was severely
weaker. The veela knew her parents would come all the way from France to watch
the first task, and she planned to ask her mother about it them.
Fleur walked the hallways with her head up. Looking back with an evil grim to
anyone who gave her a bad look, or were reading the Prophet. Her mother would
have a field day with the paper, and she would enjoy it. The first task was two
weeks away yet, but there was a full moon in a week. She wanted to be there for
Harry this time, the emerald eyed wizard had showed an amazing will to move
forward, whatever had happened in his past, he wanted to heal, for himself and
his friends .And Fleur wanted to help him, first she would take the lead of the
defense club on the last night before the full moon, as Harry could be a little
too worked up on that night.
It had been a busy week. As expected, after the news of Harry becoming the heir
of the Black family got public by the Prophet, he was flooded with marriage
proposals, as no one knew how to reach the family's head right now most were
addressed direct to the young wizard. Harry, Daphne, Fleur and Hermione even
got some fun sorting the letters. They had gone with Harry to his favorite spot
by the lake, and starting reading them. Most were pretty boring, reading more
like business proposals, until Daphne giggled. "What?" Harry asked curiously.
"You may want to keep this one Harry, for when we are not around to tease you."
Daphne answered handing him one of the letters. Fleur had to admit she liked
the dark haired girl; she was very intelligent, in a different way than
Hermione, and really beautiful.
Harry took it and blushed furiously with some more than suggestive photos of
the daughter of an Italian family. Fleur smiled at him trying awkwardly trying
to hide his arousal. She also noticed that Hermione and Daphne seemed eager to
help him with that, even without telling. In the end, she noticed, he did keep
the photos. Fleur couldn't help but laugh out loud of the situation, breaking
the tension and making everyone laugh with her. Daphne and Fleur also have
talked about their families strange connections. Fleur was happy the English
witch also spoke French, and the three girls made a vow to teach Harry. They
made plans to travel together, to visit Fleur's home, and the French witch
noticed the happy and hopeful look on Harry's face, even if for just a
moment…Like he didn't believe any of this was real.
Fleur was thinking about that when she heard the scream. The witch started
running in the sound's direction, she turned the corner just to see Harry and
Hermione surrounded. At the door of a classroom four other boys and a girl
sending continuous hexes at them. Fleur could actually see their defense
training taking effect. Harry and Hermione were back to back, slowly rotating
around in almost beautiful synchronized movements. Harry was the attack,
Hermione was the defense. The bushy haired witch lifted shields, deflecting the
hexes as Harry attacked with uncanny speed, stunning and disarming, they were
five against two, and the five never stood a chance, the skill level difference
was evident. Daphne was also approaching through the door, as Fleur cast two
disarming spells in sequence at the attacking girl. A little blond boy was
screaming in blind rage. Harry managed to make him trip on his own legs as
Hermione disarmed one of the other bigger boys, the last one standing. Fleur
passed through blond boy with a mocking smirk, they were defeated. "Are you
both ok?" Daphne asked approaching Hermione and Harry.
"Yes, they ambushed us…" Hermione started to saying when Fleur heard a scream
full of anger, and raised a shield by instinct, but it was one second too late.
It was no hex that hit Daphne; it was a full-fledged curse. Harry held her as
she fell and the blond boy started screaming, with a dim light coming from his
wand. "You will pay for stealing from me!" Daphne's shoulder turned into a
weird angle and she spilled blood on Harry's face, passing out without a
scream, the blond boy got up and started running away, Harry was breathing
fast, Hermione took Daphne from him and Fleur saw the feral predatory eyes of
the wolf. He gritted his teeth, and for a second Fleur could swear they were
sharper, with a scream, no, a roar, Harry ran after the boy.
"Go after Harry! He is not thinking straight! He is going to do something rash.
I will take Daphne to the hospital wing." Hermione screamed and Fleur dashed
after her wolf.
Harry was fast. Faster than Fleur, and certainly faster than the blond boy.
Fleur watched in terror as Harry pounced at him like a predator. She watched,
almost in slow motion, as the boy hit the ground with Harry over him, the witch
told herself "faster, faster" as she saw Harry grab the blond by his robes and
slam him on the wall, a trail of blood leaving his mouth. People started
gathering around to witness the surreal scene. Fleur could see Harry's eyes,
bright with magic and rage. She did not felt any fear, not for her as he
slammed the boy again at the wall. Harry was growling.
Fleur approached him; the blond boy has blood coming from his mouth and nose,
but not much more damage. She could see the battle for control on Harry's eyes.
Without any hesitation, Fleur wrapped her arms around his neck. His body was so
warm, like he had a strong fever. She tried to show how much she cared trough
the hug. She felt his chest moving fast with his heavy breath. "'Arry, it's ok…
listen to my voice… Daphne is ok… you did, you protect her… Let go… if you hurt
him, they will take you away from us… we need you with us 'Arry… don't give
them a reason to take you away"
Harry's breath slowed down…
HPHPHP
Daphne woke up in a very familiar hospital bed, with a strap around her
shoulder, holding it immobilized, Madam Pomfrey smiling warmly at her. "There
you go. I knew my best apprentice wouldn't let me down." The girl looked around
to find Tracy, Hermione, Astoria Blaise and Fleur around her. She looked for
another face, but couldn't find, feeling a little disappointed.
"'Arry is at the headmaster's office." Fleur told her, catching her searching
gaze.
"Did he made something heckles yet again?" Daphne asked, with a worry tone,
some of Katie's stories were rather scary.
"Other than break one of Draco's teeth and make him piss himself, no." Blaise
answered with a grin. Daphne gave a relieved sigh and sank her head back in the
soft pillow. "I mean that, the blond git actually piss himself." He laughed and
madam Pomfrey gave him a disapproving look.
"Everything is fine dear." The matron said. "Thanks to Ms. Delacour's shield,
the bludgeoning curse deflected and only barely hit you. There was some bone
damage, but nothing serious. Anyway I would like you to spend the night for
observation, a curse is always dangerous, especially one done so poorly." The
old woman gritted her teeth. "A student using a curse! No matter whom his
parents are, the boy needs to be severely punished!" Everyone looked around
knowing that this would be improbable.
"Thanks Fleur." Daphne said. "Thanks everyone for being here." Daphne tried to
sit, but her shoulder hurt, and the girl stayed down in pain.
"Nah! Madam Pomfrey said. "Take it easy girl. Rest for now"
"Yes Poppy…"
"Draco is done." Blaise said after madam Ponphey got back onto her office.
"After today and the whole Black family heir thing, he will be lucky if even
Parkinson keep following him around. I know that is not how Harry wanted it to
happen, but you two need to seize the opportunity…"
"It is not time for house politics, Blaise." Hermione intervened. "We are here
to cheer Daphne up."
"But that did cheer me up! After what that little monster did! I wish I could
have seen his face when Harry got him!" Daphne said with a smirk. Hermione had
a concerned face, but Tracey and Blaise both had understanding smiles. Fleur
finally said.
"Harry was protecting his pack, like Katie said. Malfoy was even paler than
normal. I bet he will not be able to walk straight for some time…" the French
completed with an evil smile.
"I am surrounded by evil…" Hermione said raising her hands in defeat, and
everybody laughed at her. They talked a little more before dinner. Madam
Pomfrey showed everyone out and gave Daphne dinner and a potion for pain.
Drained as she was, Daphne ended falling asleep. She woke in the middle of the
night feeling a little stiff, just an ever bright candle illuminating the side
of bed with a dim glow. Someone was sat beside her on the bed. She didn't need
to ask to know who it was. "Hello Harry, I knew you would come."
"Of course, I would never miss my probably only chance to be on this side of
the bed." He said in a smug tone and moved a little closer to her.
"Did you get in trouble?" Daphne asked, concerned about him.
"One week detention with Snape, after the full moon. How are you? I mean, for
real, I have been in your place many times and I know it can be...hard." There
was real caring and concern on his voice, and Daphne couldn't help but feel
warm inside.
"I am OK. Our friends support me, and now you are here." She smiled at him, and
Harry came even closer to her and took her hand.
"Aren't you afraid?"
"Of the big bad wolf? Do I look afraid? Will you protect me?
"Even from myself" They stayed silent for a time, Harry holding Daphne's hand,
making small circles with his thumb over it. She felt safe.
"Harry, do you like me?" She asked suddenly. Harry blushed and smiled at her.
"Ever since the day we first met on the train, I always thought you were the
most beautiful girl I ever saw… and then I discovered how incredible and scary
you really are…"
"Prat…"
"So yes, I do." He finished with a confident voice.
"I fancied you since second year… you know. But I was always afraid, you were a
Gryffindor and always so distant, in some kind of dangerous adventure… And the
things they said about you" Daphne said, feeling ashamed. He smiled beautifully
for her, no judgment on his eyes, but it only lasted for a second.
"Me too, but…"
"It's complicated?"
"It's complicated…"
"I know, but we can get around it… I know we can!" She said hopefully, more to
herself than anything…
.oOo.
In the week that followed, Katie saw things happening that at the made her
happy, but at the same time also uncertain of what to feel. She came to accept,
those people were her pack now. Blaise, Ginny, Neville, Tracy and the twins had
answered the call. More than that, Harry had chosen Daphne, Hermione and Fleur.
He loved all of them, even if he didn't realize it. Love grows, and he was
certainly powerful enough. Katie was happy, the witch knew she belonged here.
But she also knew her time of being intimate with her alpha may be ending. Once
one of the girls came around and claimed their place, she may be asked to step
down. She had never felt this kind of urge, running at her grandfather's pack.
But with Harry as an alpha it was different; the pull she felt was too real and
too strong. "But we are not made of just instincts…" she thought for the
thousandth time.
Harry was teaching all he knew to them, making plans, researching. He was being
somewhat successful in directing his rage to productive things, although the
incident with Malfoy almost ruined it all. She had also talked with all the
three girls. Other than Hermione, they may not be comfortable with the idea of
sharing. Fleur seemed especially possessive, maybe it was a veela trait, but
Katie remembered Harry's speech, and thought that could be just a prejudiced
view of her own. In the end, it was his choice, she had already made hers. And
Katie decided she would have a hell of a good bye.
Daphne had returned to the club for everyone's relief. It was a joy to watch
the bonds being formed between them. When Harry came to correct Daphne's wand
movement that night, and the girl had teasingly rub her body on the boy in
front of everybody, making him blush furiously and choke on his words, and
everyone laughed, Katie knew she had found it, she had found her pack.
At the end of the session, Katie held Harry's hand. "I need to talk to you."
she said. Harry nodded as Dobby took Fleur, Regine and Gabby back to the
carriage and the other people returned to their house's dormitories. Katie
noted Hermione looking at them, and she gave her a knowing look. "Follow us
later." Katie whispered to the witch.
When she and Harry were alone, she held both his hands and looked her new alpha
in his deep green eyes they were almost completely wolf eyes now. "Harry, I
have made a choice… I talked to my grandfather… I choose to run with you Harry,
do you understand that?" she asked hopefully.
"You mean… you want to be in a… pack… with me?" He said, sounding a little
confused.
"Yes Harry… you told me you read my ancestor's book right? You know what that
means?"
"Katie, I don't even know an alpha, and they are your family…" Harry now
sounded worried, but Katie could smell his power.
"And they will always be. But wasn't you who said we must move over our
predecessor shadows, that only in that way we can make them justice?"
"Yes."
"Harry, you are the Alpha I choose." The boy looked at her with widened eyes.
"Harry, I need to run with my family once more, to make amends and say goodbye.
After that you will never hunt alone anymore. We will make our enemies tremble
at your name." she laughed in an exaggerated manner.
"Katie, if it's really what you want, I promised myself not to push anyone away
anymore, but you do need understand what it means?"
"Yes Harry, I understand your concern, but it's my choice to make and I made it
on my own."
"So I will accept you, as an equal." Harry said with a warm smile that made her
tremble.
"So noble…" and so naive, she though.
"Harry, before I go I need to ask you two things. Please, please don't take the
wolfsbane potion anymore, it only hurts you, embrace your Wolf. And secondly,
for one last time, I need you… to… fuck… my… brains… out…" she whispered the
last words on his ears, making Harry tremble.
She knew his wolf had awakened.
.oOo.
Hermione took the marauder's map and recited the vow. For the first time, the
witch thought, she could say that she was really up to no good. "What the hell
am I thinking? Did she really say that to me?" With a quick glance at the map,
she found Harry and Katie. They were leaving the room of requirement together.
Casting a 'notice me not' spell on herself, and with a deep breath, she exited
the Gryffindor tower with the map open. Flitch was close to the dungeons now,
so she should have no trouble passing through the hall. Looking at the map she
quickly realized were they headed. The prefect's bathroom. "Do I really want to
see that? Morgana tits, I do!" She tough as she covered the ground to the door.
Always looking at the map, making sure no one would surprise her. For some time
now Harry had decided to lend the map to her. His senses close to the full moon
gave him enough aware of his surroundings for him to need it to move around.
"Would that be wrong to Harry? To Fleur and Daphne? Should I base my decisions
on them anyway?" The flow of thoughts rushed through her head, as she felt the
cold night air. Hermione felt a rush of adrenaline; she was defying the rules
once again, and this time for pure selfish reasons, as it had become more and
more common after her parents' divorce had sacked her trust on authority.
Thinking like that she reached the prefect's bathroom, finding the door was
slightly open. Almost like an invite.
Every cell on her brain screamed for her to turn around and go to bed, but her
hormones pushed her forward. Hermione entered slowly, trying not to make noise.
The notice not spell still working, she listened to a moan next to one of
pools, she tried to position herself in a way where she could see them, but
maybe they would not see her. When she finally laid eyes on Harry and Katie,
she lost her breath.
Katie had Harry pinned against the wall, kissing him with an almost violent
passion, muffled moans coming out of her mouth, one of her hands running
forcefully through Harry's hair, the other pushing his tie. The boy's hands
traveled from her back, to her legs, entering under her skirt on the way back
up, and grabbing her ass. Katie moaned louder. Hermione watched mesmerized. The
passion, the need, it was so much more alive than her fantasies. The bushy
haired witch started rubbing her thighs together, feeling the warm forming on
her center.
Harry's hands grabbed the sides of Katie's white panties and pulled them down.
Moving her legs, the girl let them slide down as her hands started working on
the boy'
s trousers. Harry moved his left hand back to her bum, grabbing and caring, and
his right hand moved to her pussy. Hermione watched as his finger gathered
moisture from the juice on Katie's inner lips, then he pressed his middle
finger all the way inside her. He pulled it back and forth a couple times
before coming out completely, using her own juices to make circular movements
over her clit. Katie moaned loud, and bit Harry's neck. Hermione own hands now
sought her moistened panties, the girl biting her lips. While Harry worked her
clit and folds, Katie finally freed his member; Hermione gasped as the other
girl grabbed and stroke it a few times, now was Harry's time to moan.
With a swift movement Harry turned them around, pressing Katie on the wall. He
kissed her mouth, chin and neck, before kneeling. Hermione hands had started
working on their own, rubbing her own clit through her panties. Harry lifted
one of Katie's legs up and with a movement licked the entire length of her
pussy, before starting giving attention to the girl's inner lips and clit.
Almost like kissing, his tongue exploring her with gusto. Katie grabbed his
hair, calling his name. Hermione thought on how beautiful they were, the
pleasure expressions, the dripping sweat, the wet noises… she was losing
herself in it. She wanted to be in Katie's place, but she knew she also wanted
to be in Harry's place.
Harry let go of Katie's leg and stood up, turning Katie around, her hands on
the wall in front of her. The girl's eyes shining in anticipation. She bent
herself, lifting her bum, on the tip of her toes. With one hand Harry held her
hips, and with the other guided himself to her entrance. Katie let a loud moan
as he slowly penetrate her, Hermione's hands worked her clit, while the other
buried two fingers inside her as she watched Harry increased his rhythm more
and more and more, Katie's bum slamming on his lower abdomen, her face a mask
of pure bliss. Hermione herself increased her own speed, sensing what was about
to happen.
Katie came screaming Harry's name, Hermione was over the edge, in almost
complete silence, biting her lips. She was panting rapidly as she looked
astonished that Harry was still hard. He sat down on the edge of the pool, than
Kate positioned herself on top of him and looked at Hermione. There was no
mistake, she knew Hermione was there, them it dawned on bushy haired witch that
Harry must knew too, he could smell her.
Katie smile at her while she lowered herself again, engulfing Harry's cock on
her a second time. Hermione blushed, but manage to smile at her before turning
and leaving. She already had enough fun for one night.
HPHPHP
The pain… gone…
Trees, cold, prey… hunt!
Faster, stronger!
Wait! Not alone… smell dangerous…
Search…
Two, one is dangerous… other… big friend… knows I am here…
Follow… attack? Hunt? Kill?
No! Big friend!
Want me to see…
Big… stone and metal… not cold anymore…
Hide… search… like hunting…
No one can see me…
Warm? Why so warm?
Slow… no killing… old man is dangerous! Smell is fake! Keep hiding.
More people… many prey… what?
What is this smell? What is this feeling?
Magic! Power! Flesh and fire!
.oOo.
Harry woke with a startle. He was back at Hagrid's hut, the trilling and
excitement running through his body, together with the now familiar pain.
"Hagrid, I remember! I saw them I felt them! I remember the dragons!
***** Chapter 11 *****
AN: Do not own, and don't make any money.
Thanks to AWR and Master42 for the beta reading, and to thedeaddodo for the
help editing, you guys rock!
Chapter 11
While the Alpha is the central member of a pack, it isn't the most important
member. He guides the other members, while he himself is guided by their
necessities and need for protection.
There is a misconception about the role of the Alpha as a form of tyrannical
leader, a position earned by force. We are not animals, strength is only one of
the many traits an alpha must possess. More important than sheer strength is
the ability to acknowledge each member of the pack as its own person, and
provide what that person with his own needs. The Alpha leads the hunt, but must
be able to recognize the other pack members strengths and weaknesses. He is a
guide that also needs guidance, and only the other pack members can provide
such thing. The Alpha is chosen by the pack, in a very subtle way, he is the
one capable of connecting with all the members in different levels, so in the
end all others circle around him.
But what is more important, through the Alpha, all the bonded can share the
magic. He serves as a beacon and also as a hub. Through him, even the non-
bitten can experience the way we see and feel magic. The Alpha shared his
magic, and all other share their own with him. Many are stronger than one.
But he also shares his emotions, fears and rage; an alpha can lead his entire
pack into madness, or worse. The Alpha must earn his position, to force it only
leads to pain and rage. And it cannot be earned by power alone.
What most outsiders fail to understand is, the Alpha is a position not of rage
or strength, but love.
The Alpha also needs an inner circle, those closest to him, to help bring him
balance, without them, the Alpha is doomed to lose control.
.oOo.
"My name is Fleur Delacour, first daughter of the house Delacour, the first
daughter of the minister of magic, champion of Beauxbatons, and now, I am a
proud veela." Fleur thought looking at herself in the big mirror of her new
champion bedroom. "If I want to change the world, first I need to change
myself, accepting who I am. And I am a veela and much more." She recited the
words Harry said about himself before leaving two days ago for his cycle of
transformation and acceptance. Fleur felt the truth of this statement, the
allure was part of her, like the wolf was now part of him, and like him, she
was not to be defined by it, but should embrace it as her own. With a proud
smile, she finished grooming her hair and prepared herself for the day.
She wanted to thank Harry, but she knew he wasn't going to be there this
morning. But her other friends would, gathering Gabby and Regine, she directed
herself to the great Hall. Fleur sat on her now usual place, at the end of
Gryffindor's table, besides Hermione, soon to be joined by Neville and Ginny.
People still think it was weird, especially of their own house, the lions could
be as prejudiced as the snakes, the French witch discovered. That was what this
tournament is about, integration, she thought.
They chatted animatedly about the last meeting, when Fleur took Harry's place
as the leader. Even Ginny seemed more comfortable with her now. In this weird
little group, she found acceptance. Maybe even love. With them, many of the
insecurities she hid inside herself could be washed away. Fleur was happy.
The morning classes flew by, and before lunch Fleur waited besides the
carriage, searching for him. "I just want to thank him, and show him the same
kindness he showed me…" she tought as the young man approached. His messy hair
flying with the wind, his predatory green eyes, the eyes of the wolf… and
smiling. They stood in front of each other smiling. Regine and Gabby watched
giggling as Fleur gave Harry a hug. "Welcome back." She whispered.
"Thank you…" he said, looking in her eyes. They found only acceptance in one
another. "Fleur." He said after a while, with a triumphant smile. "I discovered
it, the first task, It's dragons!"
.oOo.
After the day classes, Harry and Fleur gathered Hermione, Daphne and Katie, he
was thrilled, but also feeling completely lost. He had never faced a dragon
before, and somehow he doubted his new physical achievements would be of much
help. Walking through the hallways, under the other students gaze, the group
directed themselves to Harry's favorite spot near the lake. But before they
left the castle, the young wizard suddenly stopped near the exit.
"Anything wrong 'Arry?" Asked Fleur. Harry pointed to a group of students near
them. He could see Cedric Diggory and Cho Chang, surrounded by their usual
entourage of Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws. The tension between the two groups had
been palpable before, specifically because some of them, including Cho,
insisted to use those buttons Malfoy had distributed to the school.
"Karkaroff was there last night, I could smell him, I am pretty sure Krum
already knows." He turned to Fleur with a worried expression. "I think I should
tell Cedric…"
"I don't know 'Arry." Fleur responded with a hard look. "Although he never said
a bad thing or wear one of those disgusting buttons, he never did anything to
stop his friends doing so either."
"Well, maybe I can offer this as a peace offering. He is a good guy Fleur, just
caught up on the confusion of this situation. I don't think is fair the three
of us knowing what we are going to face and Cedric doesn't." Harry looked at
Hermione and Katie, and they nodded in approval, but Daphne had a doubtful,
cold expression, she couldn't care less for Diggory.
"Then you are a more forgiving person than me, but I can understand and respect
that." Fleur finished, sounding a little harsh. Harry nodded with a smile and
signaled for the girls to wait. He approached Cedric and his group with heads
up, he was not ashamed for being in the tournament, not anymore, angry yes, but
not ashamed. Cedric looked at his approach them with curious eyes. But made no
mention of going away. The tall blond young man gave a quick look at Fleur and
the others, and then returned his gaze to Harry.
"Diggory… Cedric, can I talk to you?" Harry asked, looking at the other wizard,
trying to appear the most honest as possible.
"He has nothing to talk about with you Potter!" Cho said from his side, with an
angry look, but Cedric squeezed her arm and looked at her with a reassuring
gaze.
"Go on Potter. We always meet eye to eye in the field, and I respect you. I
have yet to make my mind about all this mess, but in the end, this is just
another competition, right…"
"Yes, and even if I hadn't entered it from my free will, I want it to be fair
for all of us, Cedric. We don't need to be enemies. Fleur and I are not enemies
as you can see." Harry said, trying to keep his voice as neutral as possible.
"Totally agreed." Cho gave the blond boy an astonished look. Cedric just smiled
at her and shrugged.
"Krum already knows by now, as do Fleur and I… Cedric, the first task, it's
dragons." The Hufflepuff eyes widened in disbelief. "I don't know exactly what
they expect from us, but now you can at least better prepare yourself."
"Thank you, Harry; I don't know how I can repay you for that…"
Harry gave a look to the circular bottom pined on Cho's robes. "I guess you
do…" And Cedric nodded. The green-eyed wizard waved his hand. "Good luck
Cedric." Harry walked back to a proud fully smiling Hermione and got a pitiful
smirk from Daphne. "What?"
"Noble git…" the Slytherin said with a grim and a hand wave. They walked to the
tree trunk; Harry was silent, as the girls entered funny discussion about
hexing Cho. Harry knew was a joke or at least he hopped when he saw both
Fleur's and Daphne's evil gazes.
"Dragons." Harry finally, said looking at the lake. "What the fuck are we
supposed to do? I doubt they expect us to kill them or something like that.
Especially with all people looking. So it must be some other thing." He
finished turning to his friends.
"The most probable." Hermione said. "Is for you to have to get past the dragons
for something, testing your courage. What kind of equipment you can carry to
the task?"
"For the first task, only our wands." Fleur answered.
"That looks awful dangerous for a competition between teenage students." Daphne
complete, to everyone's agreement. She thought for a couple seconds. "OK, first
let's think about your strengths. What are you too really good at?"
Harry and Fleur looked at each other… "I can't think of anything…"
"I am a veela, so the fire would probably not be a problem, as I can manipulate
and resist a reasonable amount of it… I am also good a mental magic, and
suggestion charms, we learn about this kind of magic since a young age, to both
use and control the effects of the allure, but I don't think that would help.
Also, my aim is quite good." She said proudly."
"Huuum, that can actually matter, I mean, the mental magic." Hermione said,
adopting her lecturing tone. "Dragons are sentient creatures, although some
wizards prefer to forget it. Maybe you can get to it that way. Or maybe you can
get close enough to his eyes; they're the only exposed weak spot. As we imagine
you don't have to kill it, just gain some time, enough to pass it."
"It might work." Fleur said thoughtfully.
"We need to train your aim, and improve your natural fire shields then, I will
look for some spells you can use if you get close enough." Hermione conjured a
parchment and a pen (happy that no professor was looking) and started making a
list.
"Sounds like a good plan, Harry?" Daphne asked.
"As I said, I can't think of anything. My reflexes and senses have improved by
a mile, but I doubt they would be any help. I am very good with runes, or so
professor Bathsheda says, but even my most powerful spells wouldn't hurt the
thing. And my aim is shit, so, no going for the eyes…" he said a little
ashamed.
"Well, I can think of something you are really good at…" Katie said with a jump
and a grin on her face.
"Katie, that is not the time for that." Hermione said with a sigh.
"Although I know you are all eager to have a taste of that..." Katie said with
an evil smirk and everybody but Fleur blushed. "That is not what I am talking
about."
"What do you mean them?" Harry asked curiously.
"Flying Harry, you are good at flying!"
.oOo.
Draco was angry. Not only had Potter taken Draco's rightful place as the Black
family heir, now, because of their fight, they had taken his wand. They even
wanted to punish him further for using the bone breaking curse, but his
father's connections on the school board had ensure his permanence at Hogwarts,
but under house arrest. He had already worked on how to get a new wand, one
without the trace from the ministry. Then the he would show a world of pain to
Potter and his bitches.
"Where the fuck is Pansy! Where is that bitch." He screamed.
.oOo.
Pansy Parkinson stopped in from of the gargoyle that stands at the headmaster's
office door. She knew all too well why she had been summoned. There, standing
with professor Snape, she knew it has to be with Narcisa Malfoy. "Bouncing
frogs." Snape said with an even tone and the ugly statue walked aside, letting
them enter the room. Narcisa Malfoy was already inside. Her expression one of
beautiful hate. Pansy looked at the headmaster seated on his big chair. He had
a stem, even worried look on his usually light face that scared Pansy.
As soon as Pansy and Snape entered the room, Narcisa started with a hiss. "We
had a deal headmaster. I kept my part of it, bringing you those evil… profane
things!"
"Before we continue, my dear." The headmaster raised his hand, effectively
shutting the woman down. "May I ask why Misses Parkinson is present? Isn't she
a little too young for this discussion?"
"I was younger when I was sold headmaster! I was younger when my training as a
lady of society started and you know it very well. Ms. Parkinson is my protégée
and was supposed to be the next lady Black!" Pansy has never seen her tutor so
angry.
Dumbledore looked at the woman with fascination, then looked at Pansy with a
measuring gaze, and gave her a smile. He turned to Narcisa once more. "Rest
assured, my dear. I'm still going to honor my part of the deal. Your son will
be the bearer of the Black name."
"And how is that headmaster? Not only Sirius is still alive, he assigned
another heir, right under our noses!" Narcissa's tone was now very cold.
"Sirius can still be convicted, and if so, his adoption of young Harry Potter
can be overwritten. If not, there are other… ways of doing so, May I remind
you, Harry Potter is just a boy, and still under my guidance. Draco is still
the next in line after Harry, so don't worry about it. Now, I believe the
purpose of your delightful visit was not only to vent about bloodline
succession, am I right?"
Narcisa gritted her teeth. She removed a small velvet box from her robes and
placed it in front of the old man with a shiver. "There is two more that I know
about, but I will only tell if you assure that no matter what happens, both my
son and protégée are to be kept save."
"I assure you that, my lady, as long as they remain inside the castle grounds,
they are under my personal protection."
Narcisa took a deep breath and studied the man in front of her. He appeared
calm and secure. Pansy hoped her tutor knew what she was doing. "One is a
chalice, inside my sister's vault at Gringotts, she told me herself before
going to Azkaban, the other is his goddamn snake!"
"Thank you lady Malfoy, rest assured your services to the wizardry society will
not be a miss. After all is done, I will make sure you and yours will be
recognized."
Narcisa sighed, looking fed up with the headmaster. "Could I have a word in
private with Ms. Parkinson?"
"Of course lady Malfoy. You may use the adjunct chamber to your left." The
headmaster pointed at the door.
"Thank you headmaster." Narcisa said, and entered the chamber, followed by
Pansy and professor Snape. The room was circular, with four wooden chairs and a
small coffee table at the center, the red carpet looked old, but clean. The
imposing woman didn't even bother sitting. Pansy knew all too well that the
submissive wife act was nothing more than that, an act. Narcisa was a cunning
decisive woman, trying to escape not only a worthless husband, but also the
grip the so called dark Lord had on her and her son. "Pansy, Draco is
worthless, Yes Snape! He is! There is too much Malfoy in him, too little Black;
he is too entangled by the dark Lord's lies. Listen to me; don't make the same
mistake I did. Get a hold of him, control him, and break him!" Snape's eyes
widened, but Pansy gave her a smirk. "I don't care as long as you give me an
heir. After that you can even find another man-toy if you want, I just want my
family away from that monster."
"And the Black assets?" Pansy asked.
"I will not let Lily EVANS steal another thing that is rightfully mine! That
half-blood bastard will have nothing!"
Pansy smiled, amazed by the woman in front of her.
.oOo.
Hermione entered the room of requirement with a book in her hands, necktie
undone, her robes thrown to the side, tired of the intense research at the
library. She saw Fleur trying to move projecting a strong shield, while Daphne
and Harry were sat at a table, surrounded by books working on a fire protection
rune for both Fleur and himself. The concentrating mood was intoxicating, but
Hermione could tell how nervous both champions were. "Dragons." She thought.
"Who the hell bring dragons to a school competition? Who put that many children
in danger like that? Sometimes the magical world could really be as bad, if not
worse than the mundane."
She approached Fleur, who was sweating from the magical exercise, and was
beautiful, even then. "So unfair." She quickly thought, before opening the book
she was caring in front of her. "I think I found a spell that can be used as
safeguard. It can gain you time if the primary plan doesn't work. And it plays
on your strengths. Take a look."
Fleur looked at the book and instantly understood what she said. "Thank you
'Ermione, I will practice it right now." the French girl read the book with
interested, moving her wand at the side, learning the movements and whispering
the incantations. No doubt she was the champion of her school. Hermione admired
her concentration for a while, before turning to Harry and Daphne.
"Harry, I know you want to protect Fleur…" Hermione said with a critical voice,
even that professor Bathsheda saying he was a natural. "But shouldn't you be
working on the summoning spell?" Without looking or even a wand, with just
quick movement, Hermione's tie found its way to Harry's hand, some five feet
away. He didn't say a word. He looked at the girl confused face, the other two
giggling.
"I figured it out while you still at the library." Harry said with the piece of
fabric in his hand. "it Is not exactly an acio spell… is more like a… calling…
hunting magic..." Hermione looked at him confused, but with a hungry look, she
was about to learn something new. "It's hard to explain. It's like a
combination of smell, sight and memory; the three together have a... color,
with a very distinct trail. I just let my magic follow that trail." Hermione
could clearly see his eyes now, they were different, his gaze almost feral.
"Like in Bell's book?" She asked.
"Exactly. When you use different senses to do magic, you can make different
magic... I think…" he finished, somewhat disappointed and embarrassed for not
being able to explain. Hermione saw how Daphne was also confused, but Fleur had
an understanding smile. "Anyways." He shrugged and continued. "Katie will make
sure my firebolt is not tied or trapped in a broom closet at the quidditch
dressing room, so I figured out I needed to do more…" the girl could see he was
really worried.
They stayed there until both the rune work and the spell were perfected to the
max of their capabilities. It was around two in the morning when they finished.
All of them felt tired, and fearful. Hermione saw Harry take Fleur aside and
talk to her. He seemed almost reassuring. Fleur was trying to hide her fear,
but the English could see she was afraid. Just like them.
Harry called for Dobby to take both Fleur and Daphne to their rooms, after they
were gone, the boy took his invisible cloak and gestured to Hermione join him.
"Just like old times." He said.
"When we were smaller." She finished with a smile, passing her arm around his
waist. They exited the room and walked in silence. Hermione strongly holding
Harry with her arms, afraid to let go, drinking in his proximity. His own arms
around her shoulders. In the back of her mind, Hermione noticed that her body
was just a little taller. They walked like that, silently, until they reach the
tower's staircase. Hermione abruptly stopped.
"Harry..." She said in a whisper. "I am afraid… I… I… can't lose you." Harry
removed the cloak from them, and lifted her head with his fingers in her chin,
so she could look on those eyes, they were definitely different, but just as
deep, Hermione liked it.
"I am afraid too Mione. I am sorry for putting you through this kind of mess,
again… but I have no plans to leave you anytime soon." Harry tried to reassure
her.
"But what if the person who placed your name in the Goblet somehow rigged the
task?" She grabbed his shirt with her fists. "Harry, we need you here, you
hear." Now the witch was looking angry. "Don't you dare leaving us!"
"I can't…" he looked deep into her eyes, his thumb moving light over her lips.
"Not until I figure out what to do about you…"
They hugged each other, and Hermione noticed they were both shaking.
"Harry, can I have Christofer Bell's book? I want to understand it better…"
Hermione finally asked.
HPHPHP
Daphne woke with an uneasy feeling as she looked around the Slytherin fifth
year's dorm. Five big four post beds occupy the room, of those only one was
unused this year. Each bed had a trunk on its foot, and a bedside small table.
To her left, there was bathroom door, with a green curtain over it. But what
with really upset her was Pansy Parkinson, sitting on her bed, dressed in her
nightgown and looking at her. Daphne reached for her wand and pointed it to the
girl.
"Easy Ice Queen." Pansy said in a low voice. "I am not stupid. After I saw what
happened with the idiot that is my betrothed, I know is not a good idea to mess
with any of you "golden girls."
"What do you want Parkinson?" Daphne asked without lowering her wand.
"Peace, you have won, Draco is done. But I can still salvage the situation.
Keep Potter away from him, and I will keep Draco at bay."
"Why now? What happened?" Daphne asked after a brief silence, evaluating the
situation.
"Potter is the Black and Potter family's heir, and I was educated on the
pureblood traditions. What happens when Draco crosses the ultimate line? If
Potter doesn't kill him, he can strip everything we have. Money, political
power. Draco may be an imbecile, but I am not. I can't escape that contract,
but I refuse to live in poverty. That's it." Pansy got up. "We will never be
friends, I am just asking for us to be civil." Daphne didn't know what kind of
game Pansy was playing, but she was also no fool. She nodded, and prepared
herself for the treason to come. She decided to tell Harry, but only after the
task. "By the way," Pansy said removing her nightgown. "Good luck to Potter
today, I hope he survives…" the girl finished with an evil grin. After Pansy
left, Daphne waited for Tracy, and after the blond girl got ready, they headed
for breakfast in silence.
The great hall was packed, practically all of Hogwarts students and also the
foreign delegations were eating at the same time today, no one wanted to get
late to watch the task. Daphne had to sit on the Slytherin table, besides
Tracy, Blaise and Astoria. From her seat she watched Harry, who did not seem
like eating anything, at the Gryffindor table, with Katie and Hermione, and
then Fleur, with Gabby and Regine with the Ravenclaws, in silence. Even Krum,
sat a few places away from her, seemed nervous. The hall itself was noisy,
about what the first task was to be and Daphne could barely hear her friends.
She then saw a ministry deputy came to each of the champions, taking then, so
they could get prepared for the task. Fleur hugged Gabby and Regine, Cedric
hugged Cho, and Harry Hermione and Katie, and a handshake from Neville. Daphne
got up, she wanted to hug him so badly, he looked so scared, but before she
could, he was gone. She sat back down. Tracy put her hand over her's and said
to her ear. "Don't worry; your little lion will be fine"
"Wolf," Daphne thought, "he is a wolf…" but she just smiled Tracy.
After the breakfast, people from outside the school began filing the grounds,
parents, politicians, Aurors, the press. Astoria stormed out when she saw Artus
and Sarah Greengrass. She hugged her parents before Daphne did the same. Daphne
noticed Gabby and Regine were next to her. The little veela also running to
someone. "Daphne my dear, I missed you." Sarah said giving her daughter a
strong hug and a kiss on the check. Artus gave her another hug as soon as her
mother released her.
"Daphne, Astoria, let me reintroduce you to the Delacours.". Her father said
pointing at the couple behind them. Daphne finally understood the surrounding
press. "This is Jacques, the minister of magic and his wife Apolline." Daphne
made polite a measure in front of them, the woman was an almost exact copy of
Fleur, only slightly older and with a channel haircut.
"Nice to meet you. I am aquatinted with your daughters and dare to say Fleur
was the right choice as a champion." Daphne spoke in almost flawless French.
"No need to be so formal dear." Apolline smiled at her. "We've know you since
you were a baby. We are here to reform old alliances and friendships, and
celebrate new ones. You grew up to be a remarkable young woman if we can go by
what Fleur said in her letters."
"She is mama." Gabby said. "She is almost as evil as Fleur." the adults laughed
at the statement, and Gabby gave Daphne her pup eyes. The older girl rolled her
eyes.
Daphne watched as Jacques and Apolline complemented dignitary after dignitary,
presenting her parents as personal friends, cementing her own family power
before other pureblood families. Shortly after the headmaster himself came to
acknowledge the French minister. "What a perfect act." She thought studying the
old wizard warm smile. Daphne played her part, as the perfect educated
pureblood daughter, but her mind was far away from there. The group of
reporters circling around them called her attention.
"Oh yes, I am impressed by Hogwarts's hospitality." Jacques said for all the
press to hear, both Britain and French. "Putting out an event of this magnitude
is no easy task. Yes, of course I am here to cheer for my oldest daughter, but
I confess I am also rooting for young Harry Potter. The wizardry society,
specifically some articles of the British press, had not been treating the boy
fairly, I hope that any mistake that lead to his unwilling participation got
solved and it's responsible punished."
After a while minister Fudge himself showed up, and Daphne could not be more
aware of the differences between the two men. The English minister looked
dwarfed next to the French. Jacques and Apolline were magnetic and outspoken.
She thought on how fudge looked like a relic from a different time.
They walked to the quidditch field, amazingly adapted for the task, extra bench
rolls and a VIP box areas were added. A big dome covered half of it, and two
big tends stand outside. Daphne saw people cheering, wearing Hufflepuff colors
and those terrible buttons. Daphne saw Hermione and the rest of the defense
club walking to the benches.
"You can go with them if you prefer." Her mother said, realizing where she was
looking. "I understand you would prefer to cheer for Harry next to your
friends."
"Thank you mother." She took Astoria's hand but before she leaved, Jacques
said.
"And please tell mademoiselle Granger we are thankful to both of you."
.oOo.
Ron walked to the bleachers with Seamus and Dean, the other two boys betting on
the scores, together with other students. They didn't even know yet what the
task was about, but rumors had run wild. Ron actually had an idea of what it
was, having seen his brother Charlie on the grounds. But his eyes were locked
on something else. Hermione was a few rows under them, with those new friends
of her. He clutched his fists. The word forming on his mind again and again.
"You can do better, Weasley." Ron recognized the voice and turned around. Pansy
was sat with Millicent, dressed in dark blue trousers and a laced blouse, with
a Slytherin colors scarf around her neck. Crabbe and Goyle were in the row
right behind her, but no sign of Malfoy.
"Where is your fiancé, Parkinson?" Ron asked. "Did he let you go out alone?"
"Draco is under house arrest, that idiot. And not he or anyone else decides
what I can or cannot do, Ronald…" she dragged the last word. Ron raised his
eyebrow. "As I said, you can do better than the bossy know it all mudblood.
Besides, we both know who is shagging her out. You can be more than his
sidekick, eating his leftovers, just saying…"
"I can do better, like you?" He said, his voice filled with sarcasm.
"If you say so… Ronald." She smiled at him, an evil spiteful smile, but there
was something more there, something he couldn't identify.
.oOo.
Fleur and Harry were sat in chairs at the corner of the champion's tent. Fleur
was wearing a version of her blue duelist robes, designed to provide some
protection while permitting maximum freedom of movement. Harry was dressed in
his quidditch uniform, with the tournament jersey over it. Fleur had Harry's
hand on her own, attracting looks from both Cedric and Krum. She noticed
Harry's legs shaking up and down on a quick pace. "Too many smells… so much
noise" she heard the young wizard whispering to himself.
"Try focusing on me 'Arry" she said also in a whisper. His green eyes meet her
deep blue ones, and he took some deep breaths, the way she knew he did when
absorbing her scent. Far from being offended, she relinquished in the effect it
had on him. His leg stopped, and his breath slowed down. "Killed a giant
basilisk, but afraid of dragons?"
"I know…" he smiled. "At that occasion I was trying to save a friend, it seemed
worth the risk, now… I don't know, I really don't care for glory and stuff… I
wish I could be just cheering for you." He rested his head at back of the chair
and looked up. "I know you're afraid too…"
"Yes. I am, terrified." She giggled. "But what can I say, I am friends with a
werewolf … I like the danger!" Harry smirked at her.
The entrance of the tent opened, and Cedric Diggory's parents entered and
greeted his son, the Hogwarts champion seemed happy and somewhat relieved by
their reassurance words. Fleur notice a sad smile at Harry's face, before her
own parents entered the tent, Krum's mother right behind. She quickly got up
and hugged her mother, letting out a sob she didn't even know was there. "Mama,
papa! I did, I did…" She said in French.
"Yes little dove." Her mother said also in French. "You did. And we are so
proud!" She got both hands on Fleur's cheeks and watery blue eyes. "Proud and
afraid! This madness seems so dangerous! How could all the headmasters agree
with it?"
"Yes mon cheri." Her father embraced her them. "It is dangerous, but I know you
can do it, you have always been a stubborn little bird, if you put something in
your head you can do it. And I know this is no different. We believe in you
Fleur!"
"Thank you mama, papa, I missed you, so much had happened, so many things are
different! I need to talk with you so bad, but now I have to face this…"
"And you will, and we will fix everything little dove." Her mother gave her a
sound kiss, like when she was a small kid, and she felt cared for just like
that.
"Mama, papa, I need you to know…" she looked at Harry and it dawned on her. All
the other champions had their families there, getting encouragement and
reassurance, happy in each other arms, smiles and tears. Even herself, feeling
secure and proud on her mother's arms, feeling a little like home, giving her
courage. And there he was, sat down, looking so small, alone in the corner of
the tent, trying to look to the wall. Almost like he wanted to disappear. Fleur
felt a heavy weight on her chest, and when she looked back, saw a tear at her
mother eyes. She held her hand and walked towards him.
"Harry?" Fleur called in a low voice, almost afraid of breaking him. He turned
to look at her, his emerald eyes as deep as never, with a smile on his face. "I
want to present you my mama and papa…"
Apolline step forward with determination and knelled in front of the boy,
holding both his hands in a strong embrace. Hi seemed a little scared at the
sudden affection demonstration.
"Hello Harry, I have waited for so long to see you again..." Tears were running
down her cheeks. "My name is Apolline, and I am your godmother…"
HPHPHP
The improvised stadium was in turmoil; people were screaming, chanting and
cheering. It reminded Hermione of the quidditch world cup, or the soccer world
cup her father liked so much. The Hogwarts students were thrilled, not only had
they discovered the dragons, they had just watched Cedric brilliantly blind the
Swedish Short-Snout and quickly distract it with sounds at the other side of
the arena in order to recover the golden egg. Bagman exaggerated narration of
the events helped the overall festive event climate. But Hermione was still
nervous, she knew anything could happen.
She heard Bagman announcing the next competitor, Fleur would be the next to
face the dragon, and her objective was the same as Cedric. The girl watched as
the dragon keepers prepared the arena after removing Cedric's Short-Snout and
with a bang of fire and light sparkles, Fleur walked through the entrance
tunnel. She looked like a warrior goddess on her light dueling armor. Her
movements were fluid, and as always she appeared to be floating as she walked
with determination inside the arena. The rune Harry had drawn on her armor
almost invisible at the chest. Her hair done in a series of braids and held
together on the back of her head. Her smile was proud and beautiful, and
without noticing, Hermione's hand held Daphne's.
With the sound of a trumpet, her time started running and the Chinese Fireball
was released. The long, snake like best moved ever so slow looking at her, his
beards trembling with a growl, studying the little creature in front of her,
trying to steal one of her eggs. Hermione could see Fleur smiling, that was
exactly what she needed, for the dragon to look her in the eye. They looked
like having a silent conversation, as ever slowly, Fleur moved her wand and
pronounced an enchantment in a low voice, her movements contained and precise.
A chunk of wood from the dragon's nest came slowly flying into the air, being
transfigured along the way. When it finally reached Fleur, it was a violin like
instrument, but without the strings. The dragon looked intrigued, but was still
standing his ground, Hermione watched Fleur assume the position and starting
playing the instrument with her wand.
Music flooded the arena, not wizard music, Hermione noticed, Chopin's Nocturne,
the witch recognized. All the time Fleur kept her eyes locked at the dragon's
own, people watched mesmerized as she took a step forward, still playing,
beautifully. She took another step and the dragon's head started slowly shaking
in the music's rhythm. With her third resolute step the beast laid his head
slowly on the ground and closed its eyes. Fleur kept playing, the arena
spectators in awe as she reached the nest and grabbed the egg.
At that moment however, Hermione saw something that froze her heart. A bolt of
electricity rushed through the dragon's chain awaking the beast with a roar of
pain. Many in the benches screamed, including Astoria at Daphne's side. The big
creature looked at the French witch at his nest, and with a Hiss of warning
inhaled deep. Fleur barely had time to make a shielding spell before the flames
engulfed her. The stadium screamed and Hermione pressed her hand at Daphne with
strength. But they all silenced when Fleur walked to the side of the flames.
Waving her wand at the beast, seemingly unharmed except by some burned fabric
of her robes. Her natural protection, shields and Harry's rune work protecting
her for enough time to cast the spell she had practice with Hermione. The
dragon kept blasting the spot where she was, and when he moved to her new spot,
she was already a couple feet away, waving her wand. Bagman screamed like a
madman, without understanding what was happening. Hermione remembered the
spell; it made the censorial communication of the brain slow down, while Fleur
kept eye contact and made the incantation, the dragon would perceive her where
she was a couple seconds before. It was hard to keep concentration with the
flames exploding at her side, but Fleur managed to keep going, sweat both from
the heat and her fear dripping on her face, creating the illusion of a shining
skin. Hermione and Daphne held their breaths with her, as she got ever close to
the tunnel. On the last few feet, she stopped her wand movements and jumped to
safety with a gracious movement, smoke coming out of her vests. The public
maniacally screamed, cheering and applauding, Hermione sighed in relief.
But the feeling was not long-lasting. Hermione knew someone had purposely
awakened that dragon.
.oOo.
Harry heard the beautiful music from Fleur, then the cheering, the roar and
smelled the fire. His heart was racing, but also confident on her skills. As he
tried to figure out what was happening, he looked at Viktor Krum at his side.
They exchanged nervous looks before Viktor said, with a heavy accent. "Is
almost like the world cup finals, only safer." He smiled and Harry smiled back.
"I have being watching you Potter. How you act with people and with the French
champion."
"I know we didn't start with the right footing Krum…"
"Call me Viktor, Potter. Before I go face the beast, I just want you to know
that I believe in you. I believe you didn't choose to enter this tournament"
"Thank you, Kru… Viktor, it means a lot. And please call me Harry." A ministry
official entered the tent and called for Viktor. "Good luck."
"Thank you." Harry watched the young man walking to the tunnel and stayed
behind alone. He listened to the sounds of the battle, and the cheering for
Krum. His palms were sweating. The ministry official came after fifteen minutes
and asked for him to get ready. He stood up, walked to the tunnel entrance and
took a deep breath.
"My name is Harry James Potter." he whispered, "son of James and Lily Potter,
and I am not the boy who lived. I am my own man, a wizard and a werewolf. My
magic speaks to me in a strong way only I can understand, I am a wolf, and I am
proud. I will live for those I need to protect. I am the Alpha…" he finished, a
little unsure of the last part, but feeling a little more confident none the
least. He placed his wand on the holder, put on his ever clean goggles, and
waited for his time. He remembered, one minute and twenty seconds. It was the
time Hermione calculated his broom would take from the closet to the arena. He
only needed to survive that much.
The official called for him, and he walked through the tunnel. The light of the
bright day waiting for him on the other side. Cheers and boos filled his ears
as he stepped in the arena, rolls and rolls of benches and VIP boxes. Thousands
of eyes looking at him. All the sounds and smells overwhelming his senses. But
not for long.
All his senses screamed "danger" at the same time, add the enormous dragon
head, full of horns appeared from the dome in front of him. The reddish purple
color of its scales contrasting with the yellow of his fangs, and the dark grey
of his horns. "So many horns, of so many sizes." Harry though. A long
serpentine neck was connected to a muscular body with long wings, a black fin
run across his back all the way to its tail, full of sharp spikes. The creature
looked at him with cunning on his big yellow eyes. "How interesting…" that
dragon hissed in parseltongue to Harry's surprise. "It has been many years
since I last saw a little wolf. "
"Well." Harry answered and the benches had gone silent from hearing the boy
speak the snake language. "I am full of surprises." Harry raised his hand and
watched the colors in the air, silently calling for his broom. Although, he was
sure the dragon could sense it someway.
"How delightful, not only you are a powerful little wolf, you also speak the
ancient language, is a pity I have to finish you…" the arena still in silence,
watching the scary exchange between the boy and the giant beast. Even Bagman
was quiet.
"So don't finish me, all I need is the fake egg, no one needs to be harm."
"Poor little wolf. That can't be. You will learn, perhaps too late, that you
can't trust wizards." The dragon heavily stepped forward. "Do you believe those
humans are your friends? Your peers? No, they have a sight so narrow that they
can't see beyond their own kind. No little wolf, they are afraid of you and me…
what do you think awaits you when they found out what you really are?
Understanding, friendship? All you are going to have is a leash and a chain,
just like those I am wearing!" She finished with a roar. "They promised to kill
my babies it I didn't kill you little wolf… blame the scared little wizards,
but you are not leaving this place!"
"Not if I have a say!"
With a roar the dragon moved forward with unbelievable speed.
.oOo.
After being tended in the medical tent by madam Pomphrey, and released after
just some minor burns, Fleur rushed to watch the remaining of the competition.
Like everyone else, the witch watched in amazement as Harry looked like he was
communicating with the giant beast. Fleur covered her mouth as she watched in
horror as the dragon stomp forward trying to swallow the wizard whole. But
their plan was in effect, Harry's firebolt flew right into his hands, and with
a swift move he was mounted on if, escaping the deadly jaws by a fraction of a
second.
Fleur watched as he flew around the dragon's head with precision and speed, the
beast trying to accompany his movements. The French witch saw how the broom was
like an extension to his body. No unnecessary moves, no more distance than
needed. Harry got closer, testing the creature's reflexes, passing over claws,
under wings and head, trying to get closer to the nest. Harry tried to get the
beast's attention, escaping another quickly bite only to perform a loop and
approach upside down to the nest. The dragon however noticed the faint and with
a deep breath released a barrage of fire at the small flier. People screamed as
enough fire to engulf a small room exploded in Harry's direction. With a quick
turn to the left, the wizard rolled in the air and escaped the fire. But the
bottom of his broom started smoking. Fleur could hear her own heart pounding.
"Come on Harry, you can do this. Please, you need, you can't leave me again…"
she thought without even notice.
Harry turned around flying right into the dragon's face, "What is he doing? Is
he trying to annoy this monster even more?" It seemed he was flying closer,
escaping the jaws only to gain some distance. The monster roared, enraged. With
another deep breath a barrage of fire left her mouth, only for Harry to gain
altitude. His broom smoking even more. Another jet of fire, another quick
dodge, circling around the beast's head. The dragon hissed in frustration and
extended her enormous wings. Fleur finally understood what he was doing. The
dragon flapped her wings, producing a great wind, as first her arms, and then
her legs left the ground. The public could not believe what they were seeing.
The dragon launched fly, pursuing Harry, the young wizard taking care to keep
the right distance. With a roar, the dragon released another breath of fire,
following his circular movements, creating an incredible fire twister in the
air. They were getting higher and higher. Fleur almost could not see the small
dot maneuvering over her head, leaving a trail of smoke. The veela held her
breath as she saw Harry letting himself free fall for a couple seconds, passing
through a wall of fire, faster than the dragon could turn around, he gained
speed, going down fast, too fast. The dragon following just a second behind,
with her wings closed like a bird of prey. But Harry was no prey. He kept
descending, a shower of fire behind him, until he was close to the ground he
made a perfect turn around, close to the nest and Fleur could breathe again. He
grabbed the golden egg only to be engulfed in a wall of dust and smoke produced
by the dragon's landing. Harry tried to gain a little altitude again, directing
himself to the tunnel. But Fleur knew he couldn't see the tail. But she could,
fast with all the sharp spikes. It swapped like a whip hitting Harry and
sending him to the ground. His momentum launching him forward rolling. Fleur
screamed. The arena was silent, as the boy rolled in the ground in a cloud of
smoke and dust. " Non, non non. You can't take him from me. I finally found him
again, he is mine… don't take my Harry…" She watched as he rolled, almost in
slow motion, to the entrance of the tunnel. She barely noticed the dragon
keepers containing the beast, or madam Ponphey running to the boy, all his
focus was on her wolf. Her Harry. He stopped rolling, and unbelievable, slowly
stood up, a number of spikes coming out of his shoulder, piercing his flesh, a
mess of blood and smoke. And he lifted the golden egg over his head. The arena
exploded in cheers. Fleur smiled.
"My Harry!" She thought. "My Harry? What am I saying! He is my wolf?" She
looked at him with tears in her eyes. "Yes… he is my Harry, and I am his…"
Harry collapsed to the ground. Fleur let out a silent scream and rushed to the
hospital tent.
"Please let me pass, excuse me. GET OUTTA MY WAY!" She screamed, so many people
in front of her, she needed to get to him. People let her pass. Someone called
her name, but she ignored it. There was only one thing she needed now. Panting,
Fleur reached the medical tent, tears on her eyes.
She found him sat on bed, his back to the entrance, without the upper half of
his vests. The matron was attending to him. Bandages and blood, the spikes
painfully coming out of his shoulder and arm.
"Hello Fleur…" he said without looking at her, sounding ashamed. His body was
slim but strong, and Fleur found herself looking at the scars. Back, shoulders,
arms, cuts, burns, she got closer, and her fingers traced Remus's bite scar.
Pomphrey looked at her and got up with a nod. "I am sorry you have to see me
like this… but there you go, that is the whole me…"
Finally, in front of him, Fleur took both her hands to his face and made him
look directly at her. Pain, courage, desire despair, all there in the infinite
green. "I wouldn't want you any other way, but yourself." She whispered, and
her lips touched his. Time stopped, for a moment only the two of them existed.
When they moved and her tongue wandered over his, was like a fire burning
inside her. She explored his mouth, his lips and teeth, one hand kept on his
face as the other turned through his hair, Harry's own hands found their way to
her neck. They let the kiss linger until both could not breathe anymore. They
parted smiling at each other, their foreheads touching…
"He is my Harry, and I am his Fleur…" she finally thought.
***** Chapter 12 *****
AN: I don't own Harry or his world, i am just having fun in a parallel
universe.
Thanks to Master42 and AWR for the beta helping. And thank you for reading. The
first year is almost all layd out, but i will take my time editing it, and also
coming back to the first chapters. Thank you!
Chapter 12
If the alpha is the heart of the pack, his inner circle is its soul. They act
as counterbalance and support. They share the magic and emotions, their bond to
the alpha and each other is so strong that even only one of them can save or
destroy the entire pack. The inner circle is formed for those closest to the
alpha, fiscally, emotionally and magically. It is not unusual that most of them
became even romantically involved. Using myself as an example, my circle is
formed by my three wives, my two children, and my oldest friend. Two of them
are not bitten.
Through their bond, the alpha and his inner circle can share many things. Magic
is the first. They can learn spells known by the alpha with almost no effort
and vice versa. Drinking in each other's magic also allow for stronger magic
than any could do by himself. The shared magic also seeks to heal and protect
its bearers.
But the real bond happens when they share emotions. Love, hate, and lust. For
this reason, usually, the inner circle is formed for a variety of people.
Different views and feelings over a situation lead to the best results. That is
the reason an alpha must seek the inner circle for guidance, and not blindly
guide the pack on his own.
But sharing emotions also means to have a closeness rarely seem on the magical
world. Maybe only the veela bond or the familiar ritual is so strong. So is,
not surprising that many times it leads to romantically or physical
relationships. In many cases, the romantic love may even come first then the
pack bond.
But the inner circle also shares the rage and the sins of the alpha, even when
they are not wolves themselves. A corrupted alpha can lead his entire inner
circle to madness. They also share his moments of rage. That is why seeking
balance is essential. The alpha needs its inner circle so that he can remain
focused and in control. The inner circle needs the alpha for protection and
love. They are the bridge between the leader and the pack.
Inside the inner circle, there is also a hierarchy. One of its members is the
alpha's pair. The one he considers his equal. The one he shares the most. The
one he cannot live without.
.oOo.
When their lips locked and their tongues caressed each other, for a moment,
Fleur felt like everything came into place. This was right. For a moment, it
seemed like only Harry, and she existed in the world. All her senses focused on
him, even her allure worked just for him, to feel him, to read him, to be his.
And because of it, she could feel the same form him. At that moment, Fleur knew
Harry could only see, smell and touch her. She felt vulnerable, yet she felt
protected at the same time, and Fleur wished it could last forever.
When they reached for air, smiling at each other, their foreheads touching, she
found herself laughing like a child. Madam Pomfrey looked at them with an
annoyed look, she pointed at Harry's shoulder, then at the entrance of the
tent. Harry and Fleur turned to see Hermione, Katie, and Daphne looking at them
with wide eyes. They seemed surprised, confused, but, most of all, relieved.
Fleur proudly steps aside, refusing to feel guilty or ashamed of what just
happened. Hermione was the first to react. The girl rushed and hugged Harry
forcefully. Kissing his cheek, "You reckless prat. You keep doing that again
and again… I am so glad you are OK…" The bushy haired witch babbled.
"Well, most of it." The matron said. "There are too many residues and spike
points of the Bulgarian's tail at your shoulder and arm Mr. Potter. We will
need to move to the hospital wing to remove them and make sure your bones are
not affected."
Daphne came forward and embraced Harry, slowly, making the wizard blush. She
proceeded to give him a soft kiss on the lips. Fleur raised her eyebrows,
fighting the urge to burn the girl. "I glad you came back, Harry…" Daphne
whispered, loud enough for the other girls to hear.
The entrance of the tent opened again, and the Delacours, led by a jumping
Gabby, entered the space. Fleur noticed the knowing look her mother gave Harry
and the surrounding girls, and Gabby was storming Harry and Fleur with a
barrage of questions in French. Unfortunately, the pain potions choose this
time to fade. Harry gritted his teeth swallowing a screen as the spiked points
trembled on his shoulder. Fleur held him from falling off the bed, and her
parents approached them quickly. Daphne catches him from the other side. "I am
here 'Arry…" Fleur whispered to him. "We are not leaving you!"
He looked at her with a thankful looking, before Pomphrey knocks him
unconscious with a flick of her wand. "Don't worry." The matron said after the
murderous look Fleur direct to her. "It is an inoffensive version of the
stunner spell, that way I will be able to move him to the hospital wing and
take care of his wounds properly, Miss Delacour." The matron gave Fleur a
reassuring look. "I care for this boy more than you can imagine. I couldn't
save him from what he's been through, but I can help now." Fleur look surprised
at her, the determination on the old witch eyes, and the regret. Fleur nodded,
and the matron levitates Harry with care, moving him to the hospital wing. "You
can all come to visit later, let me attend to him now." Pomphrey firmly
finished, as she left the tent.
Fleur could notice the fire in her mother's eyes as the woman saw the young
wizard's body passing through her. The rage was only met with his father's
resolve expression. Fleur felt a hand holding hers, and surprised looked at
Hermione. "He has been through much worse Fleur. He is strong, and he will be
fine…"
Fleur smiled at the younger witch and looked at both other girls. "I know. And
it makes me mad he has to be through so much. But that's who he is." Fleur
reached Daphne's hand with her free one. "We need to talk… not now, I need to
think first." Her voice was firm, but Daphne held her gaze. "Something happened
here, and I need to organize my thoughts first. Please give me some time…" The
younger witches looked at her with astonished expressions.
"I am glad you are OK too, Fleur," Hermione said after taking a deep breath.
She kissed the French girl in the check. "We will talk when we are all ready."
Daphne kept a cold expression and just nodded.
"My dear." Her father said approaching the girls. "Sorry for interrupting, I
need to see the headmaster now. I will come to see you later, OK?" Jacques
kissed Fleur on the forehead and leave, followed by Hermione, Katie, and
Daphne.
Apolline looked at her and calmly said. "I believe you want to talk?"
"Oui mama, I would like that…"
.oOo.
Ron watched as Hermione and Daphne entered the healing tent, probably looking
after Harry, and clenched his fists so hard that later he would see the marks
of his nails at the palms. He felts his neck warm. It was not fair. Seamus and
Dean were oblivious to him, talking about how awesome Harry's flying was. And
he got second nonetheless. Ron stopped and let some distance build between him
and his friends. Looking around, he saw Ginny discussing the maneuvers with the
tall Slytherin boy, and felt isolated.
"I already told you, Weasley, you could do better." He turned to see Pansy
behind him, with Millicent standing silent behind her. With a nod she made the
bigger girl move on.
"What do you want now Parkinson?" He sighed, feeling tired.
"To talk… walk with me if you want…" she started walking, her hair, that was
cut on her jaw's line, bouncing up and down. Curious, he followed her. "You
should just let go, Ronald. That is a fight you cannot win, you know… the bossy
knows it all was in love with Potter since the second year…"
"Are you just going to shove it on my face now?" The boy answered, getting
angry.
"No, I am telling you to let it go, don't become obsessed with them and fuck
yourself because of it."
"Like Draco?" The boy raised his eyebrow, hoping to get a reaction from the
girl.
"Exactly, just like that idiot. Look at all the shit he has got into because of
it. Sometimes I think there is even more to his… obsession to Potter, but, in
the end, I just don't care…" Pansy shrugged.
"So, you don't hate Harry?" Ron asked, in disbelief.
"I don't even care about Potter; I am just stuck with an imbecile. I care only
about myself Ronald, and so should you…"
.oOo.
Albus Dumbledore poured himself a dose liquor, and another one for the visitor
he was sure would arrive at any minute now. "How interesting this competition
is going to be. At one side the purists trying to kill both Harry and Ms.
Delacour, on another the impostor Moody trying to make sure the boy lives.
Interesting, it also means the death eaters need Harry alive for something."
His train of thought was interrupted by his gargoyle's announcement.
"Headmaster, Minister Delacour is here to see you." Dumbledore smiled. "Using
official titles, setting the tone of the conversation even before we start, you
haven't changed at all Jacques."
"Let him in." The door opened with a heavy, stony noise, and the French
Minister of magic, Jacque Magnon Delacour, entered the room. The man had a calm
semblance, dressed in a well-tailored dark blue Armani suit, and an equally
dark tie, over a beige shirt. Pointed shining shoes and a well-trimmed hair
with some sparse grey and white loins complete the imposing, but formal look.
As expected from him, the man did not wear a wizard robe, preferring the
complete muggle attire. Albus knew the man in front of him was clever and
dangerous, and he could almost see the dark aura around him. Albus Dumbledore
smiled broadly at the sight. "I bid you welcome Minister Delacour. I hope you
are finding your visit to Britain and Hogwarts to be the most pleasant."
"Indeed I am headmaster. The grounds are still as beautiful as I remember."
Jacques answered in an equally jovial tone.
"True, it has been an awfully long time, how much now?"
"Almost thirteen years since last time. I can see we both have been pretty
busy, non?"
"Indeed. May I indulge you some liquor, maybe a toast to the good old times? If
I remember well, this is your favorite brand of liquor." The Frenchman took the
glass and held it up.
"For the good old times, before everything gone astray…" Jacques said before
their glasses touched. "I must confess I am surprised by how well you managed
the boy's situation so far headmaster. Changing the tasks dates and even the
media access. I could only imagine the mess it would be if the international
community discovered that the illegal champion is also a non registered
werewolf. My applause to that." Jacques cut directly to the point.
The headmaster was surprised, but just for took second before understanding
dawned on him. "I see you have being in contact with Mr. Lupin." The French
smiled. "Or perhaps since you are a ministry official now, you have access to a
no traceable owl." The Minister smiled again. "But compliments apart, to what
do I owe this visit Minister Delacour, when not even our own Minister had such
an honor."
"My daughter is not staying at Mrs. Fudge's house, is she? Nor the Potter boy.
We will be leaving in two days headmaster; I just want permission to pass this
time with my daughters and her friends without being disturbed, a courtesy for
old times' sake."
"I can prepare some quarters for you at Castle if you so desire."
"Don't worry; we rent a nice little house in the village for a couple of days.
But it seems we are going to have to stay at the school grounds way beyond
visiting time. What I asked it to have our presence allowed by the wards for a
couple more days." Jacques produced a parchment from his internal pocket. "Here
are the official ministry papers granting permission. And I you like a private
meeting with the boy" the headmaster took the papers and smiled at him.
"Although the influence of the ministry is limited at the school, I will grant
your request Minister" Albus concentrate for a couple of seconds. "There you
have it, both you and wife have access both in and out of the grounds."
"For the old times?"
"No my dear boy, consider it a goodwill gesture for the times ahead of us."
.oOo.
"Wow!" Blaise Zabini said to the red-haired girl sat at his side. "That was
some serious flying! The guy just made a dragon faint!" It had been an
incredible presentation, especially for both seekers that watched together from
the benches. "I bet he has a good chance going pro. I just hope he is OK…"
"Nah, Harry had worse," Ginny said blinking an eye. "One night at the
infirmary, and he is good to go!" The tall wizard notices she was more
concerned than she tried to appear. They had watched the task close to
Hermione, Daphne, and Tracy, but the two girls run into the hospital tent, and
Tracy bailed out with a wink in his direction, leaving them to come back to the
castle on their own. Blaise enjoyed talking to the beautiful athletic Weasley,
she was smart, sarcastic, and even a little rude sometimes, but always deadly
honesty, and he found it to be a nice break from all the innuendo and games
from the other Slytherins. Taking courage, he said.
"I can see why you like him, and I don't blame you…" She looked at him with
those wide brown eyes. "Damn, I even like him myself." He smiled at her. "I
seriously hope one day I can call him a friend."
She looked at him with sad eyes. "I had a big crush on the boy who lived you
know, like the prince charming from the books, I was even friends with Romilda
Vane and her stupid fan club." She took a deep breath. "He is not the boy who
lived, and for sure he is not prince charming… he is so much more… but how am I
to compete against his best friend, the ice queen or a veela…"
"I think you can…"
"What?!"
"Compete with them… but I rather see you compete for something of your own,
maybe trying to focus on Quidditch or the defense team. I believe you can be
great if you stopped letting this bug you. Maybe even he would see it."
Ginny looked at him. He was smiling with just the corner of his mouth. "Are you
making a pass at me Zabini?"
"Who am I to compete?" He said rolling his eyes and using the same tone she did
before.
"Prat! You are not too bad yourself." She stopped and looked at him. "Hey, I… I
need to get prepared for the selection, so… you want to fly with me tomorrow, I
mean, for training?"
"Of course Ginny, we can both practice together." He answered with a smile.
.oOo.
As her mouth locked into Alicia's, all shadow of doubt left Regina's mind, that
was too good to be wrong, her tongue exploring the other girl's lips, teeth,
jaw, and neck. A soft moan left the blond which as Regina worked her neck,
lightly biting her pulse, them kissing her shoulder, one of the French's hands
captured her breast, playing with her nipple. Regine kept kissing down until
her mouth and tongue reach the nipple on the other breast, making Alicia moan
even louder, sending shivers of pleasure down Regina's body.
The dark-skinned which kept its ministrations, kissing the blonde's belly and
caressing the inner side of her tights. Regina's mouth reached the small spot
of well-trimmed pubes, the same sand color of Alicia's hair and right below it
reached her prize, the soft mound of the witch's dripping center. She licked
all the extension of her folds, savoring her juices and then proceeds to kiss
Alicia's hood and clit, making the other girl arch her back in pleasure. At the
same time, Regina's finger found its way inside the girl's inner lips. The
French felt another pair of strong hands lifting her hips, positioning her on
her knees as her head was deep between Alicia's legs. Fred's fingers played
around her cunt and anus, getting wet from her already dripping juices. The
red-haired wizard positioned his member on her entrance, making Regine moan
with teasing anticipation. He slowly drove all his length inside her, making
the girl trembled, her head firmly held in place by Alicia's strong hands. The
blonde's moans suffocated by George's member, whom now she kept almost whole in
her mouth.
The four stated moving, almost perfectly synchronized, Regine could fell how in
tune they were, how she loved Alicia's taste and any of the two nearly
identical cocks inside her. They reached their peaks almost at the same time,
Fred's hot seed bursting inside her as she moaned loud in bliss. She kissed
Alicia on the mouth and could taste George's sperm on her, and loved it…
Yes, nothing wrong at all.
HPHPHP
Apolline watched her older daughter nervously sit in front of her at the
improvised common room inside the Beauxbatons carriage. She noticed Fleur
looking from one side to another, her hands moving frantically over her lap.
"He will be OK Fleur, and we will all be able to see him shortly." Apolline's
voice seems to bring Fleur back to the present. Apolline smiled at her daughter
when their blue gazes meet. "How long this has been happening?"
"What?" Fleur looked confused at her, but her blushing cheeks betrayed her.
Apolline smiled at the unusual sight of her usually prideful and resolve
daughter blushing.
"You know very well, my little dove… you and Harry looked as beautiful today as
when you were small." Apolline said with a dreamy tone. Fleur seemed to give up
her act.
"I don't know… we are friends… he… understands me, respects how I feet. We
started getting closer and closer. Oh mama, he had been through so much, and
yet he ended up so strong and passionate. He has a real thrive to change him
and the world for better, but he is so afraid of not living to see another
year." Apolline fouled. "I can see that, even if he doesn't say so. He
listened, he helped Gabby and me… mama, he is so strong that not even the
allure affected him. He had been bitten to save 'Ermione and is trying to make
the best of it…" at this time the girl was a little more than bubbling.
Apolline looked at her with compassion.
"So, you are in love…" The older veela said in a soft voice.
"I… I don't know… we haven't even kissed until today." Instinctively Fleur
brought her fingers to her lips, her mother giggled. "He is young…"
"I am four years older than your father," Apolline said with an amused tone.
Fleur finally noticed something her mother had said before.
"What do you mean when we were little?"
"After you met Harry, when you were three, you two were impossible to separate.
To the point that Lily and I had to put you both to sleep in the same bed if
you were at the same house. You may not remember, but you suffered so much when
he disappeared…" Apolline finished sadly.
"But... what does that mean?" Fleur sounded confused.
"I don't know Fleur, maybe nothing. I believe we make our own destiny. Magic
only helps. Maybe it means something, and maybe it is nothing. You were so
little…" both veela stayed in silence for a while. "Something else happened?
Something you didn't say in your letters?"
"My… allure is acting weird… he is coming and going, not like it is weaker, is
more like, it's directed…" she tried to explain.
"Direct to…"
"'Arry…" she whispered.
Apolline looked at her. Her daughter seemed lost. For the first time, she found
someone with whom she could have a future. Apolline remembered herself when she
met Jacques. "Little dove, we never lied to you about how dangerous all of this
is. The decision is yours and only yours to make. Maybe is destiny; maybe is
magic, but whatever it is you must decide if it is worth. You know what may lay
ahead for Harry and all of us. And whatever you choose, your father and I will
be by your side." She held her daughter's hand and smiled as she saw the
determination come back to her gaze.
.oOo.
Harry woke at his usual hospital bed, the smells hitting him right the way,
making his head feel a little dizzy, he noticed his arm immobilized and
thankfully noticed he was wearing one of the hospital scrubs. His right arm and
shoulder felt like burning, but not as bad as the transformation pains. Feeling
relief, he noticed he could move his fingers with no problem. He looked around
and found himself surrounded. He could see Hermione, Fleur, Katie, and Daphne
next to his bed, Neville and Blaise were also close to him, as well as Ginny
and Tracy. Apolline Delacour, whom Harry thought looked just like an older
version of Fleur, was sat in a chair next to Madam Pomphrey, who talked
vigorously with a well-dressed man, that he recognized it was Jacques Delacour.
But the one closest to him was Gabby. "'ARRY!" The young French girl screamed
when she noticed he had awakened.
"Nothing like waking up my own reserved bed, surrounded by friends…" Harry
smiled.
"Your own bed?" Apolline asked with a playful voice.
"It literally has his name on it." Daphne pointed to the little sign on the end
of the bed we're Harry's name was written over the number. "He had used this
bed so many times over the years that I decided to make it official." Even
Harry couldn't help but laugh, looking at the witch grin made him feel
lightheaded.
"Very funny Daphne…" he sighed, his arm still in pain. The well-dressed man,
Jacques, approached with madam Pomphrey at his side, smiling broadly.
"Hello, Mr. Potter, Harry, glad to see you wake." He extended his left hand,
which Harry took, ready to open his mouth to ask, but Jacques spoke first.
"Now, I know you may have many questions, but now is not the time nor is the
place. The matron told me you will be as good as new tomorrow, so I would like
to invite you to dinner. If you accept, all the details and permissions are
already set with the headmaster."
Harry looked at the hopeful expression on Gabby and the reassuring smile from
Fleur before answering. "It will be my pleasure Minister Delacour."
"Jacques please… we are as good as family, Harry." Harry noticed the shocked
looks on some of his friends' faces. Apolline got up from her chair and Harry
tough she looked almost supernatural, indeed like a slightly older version of
Fleur but with a channel haircut, dressed in an elegant beige jacket and
trousers. She approached him with a smile and kissed him on the cheek. Harry
tensed as the other people in the room widen their eyes.
"We waited so much to find you," she whispered. "We can wait one more night to
talk, get well Harry; we are going to let you with your friends." With that
said both her and her husband kissed their daughters and left the infirmary.
"That was weird…" Blaise commented. "You are better connected than I thought."
He finished with a giggle. "Maybe you really are a good contact."
"So it seems." Harry turned to Hermione, Daphne, and Fleur. "Can you teach me
French?" The girls laugh, but Harry noticed that Fleur was keeping her
distance. "Maybe it was just a dream after all, from the potions…" he thought.
They quickly started talking about the task, and Harry's flying, Daphne had
even saved some of the dragon's spikes that got stuck on his shoulder for him.
Harry drew on the scents of those people, their concern for him and their
relief, and watched the magic start dancing around them, his eyes widened, he
felt like it was speaking to him, the wolf felt calm, maybe Katie was right,
perhaps those were his pack after all.
After a while, madam Pomfrey led everyone out, so he could rest. Fleur distance
still felt weird, but he could smell her confusion. After a meal and a good
dosage of pain and dreamless sleep potions, Harry finally got to sleep,
thankful for not having to worry, even if for one night.
.oOo.
Apolline thoughts were interrupted by her husband's hand on her shoulder. She
looked at him with a half smile and took the glass of wine he was offering.
"What's on your mind dear?"
"It was a busy day, don't?" She answered taking a sip of the wine. "I am so
happy and worried at the same time. It was so good to see Harry alive, but I am
sure you noticed…" the man nodded. "The scars, he looks almost like Sirius
after Azkaban… and his aura… I was ready for the wolf, though his is way
stronger than Remus's. But there is something more… there is an evil trying to
get in, an evil thing lurking around his very soul Jacques. And is coming from
that thing on his forehead."
"What does that say about him, that he is able to fight it, even though all the
things he has endured? Most people in his place would have already
surrendered…" Jacques said, with a hint of pride in his voice.
"He is indeed Lily and James's son… maybe there is a way to remove it from
him…"
"Or maybe is already part of who he is… what makes him so strong." Both stared
in silence at each other, contemplating the possibility. Jacques took a sip of
his wine and passed his arm around his wife's shoulders, holding her close on
the love chair. He could see there was more she wanted to say and waited until
she was ready.
"Fleur… is bonding to Harry…" She finally said, looking at the wall. Jacques's
eyes widened. They had discussed the possibility, but to see it happening was
different. "It is not complete yet, but she has all the signs. Her allure is
already responding. And it is strong."
"It is dangerous…"
"And is also her choice, there is still time. She can simply walk away… but you
saw their kiss… I hope Harry is strong."
"He is, otherwise he would not have survived. My Fleur…"
"There are also the other girls; I can see it clearly as a day… Sirius will be
proud. And Fleur in trouble" She giggled.
"Those are their mistakes to make Cherie, and we can only be here for them."
.oOo.
Daphne finished sorting the potions on the trail. She took the parchment and
wrote the ones needing replenishment, potions for pain, headache,
contraception… she took a sip of her tea and looked at the young wizard
sleeping in front of her. He looked so peaceful for once; even that she knew it
was just the effect of the dreamless sleep. And then she felt it again, the tug
on the back of her head, like she should know something, but forgot… it had
started right after she kissed him and only got worse with time. She had no
idea what it was. Maybe Madam Pomphrey could help her. Thinking of that, she
turned her head when she heard the now familiar poof of Dobby apparating.
Daphne turned to see Dobby and a surprised Fleur in the infirmary.
"I didn't expect you would be here…" the French which whispered. "Are you going
to stay with him all night?" Daphne could detect something in her voice, and
she was not sure if jealousy or envy.
"No… I'm taking the first turn; madam Pomphrey will replace me in an hour or
so." They stare at each other. Daphne definitely respected the older girl,
maybe even liked her. "Is Dobby now responding to you?"
"I wanted to see Harry and decided to try calling him." Fleur shrugged. "It
worked, a very unusual house elf this one, he really loves Harry."
"True…" They both looked at the young man on the bed, then at each other again.
"So… why did you come?"
"I wanted to spend a little more time with him, strengthen my resolve… I
thought he was going to be alone."
"Sorry." Daphne's voice was neutral, making Fleur raised an eyebrow. "He will
be sleeping until morning anyway…"
"You really like him don't you?" The older witch interrupted with an even but
sure tone. Daphne didn't flinch, summoning all her training, she sustained
Fleur's gaze on her. The black haired girl saw something she could only
understand as recognition in the French's face.
"Yes." Daphne finally answered.
Fleur caressed Harry's cheek with a light touch. "Some things changed today…"
She looked at Daphne again. "Do you know something about veela magic?"
"I am not sure anymore, ever since I know you, every stereotype has being
proven wrong, I am rethinking what I thought I knew, both about veela and about
the werewolves, because of him…" Fleur gave her a warm smile. "I respect you
Fleur. I think I even like you, because of Harry, but… I can't, and I won't
back out! People had been doing this to him his entire life, and I will not be
one of those!" They look at each other in silence.
"You know…" Fleur sighed. "If it were any other girl, I would probably have
burned you already… but I understand what you are saying, and I… respect that…
Harry likes you… and me…"
"And Hermione, and Katie…" Daphne rolled her eyes.
"I have handled Katie…" Fleur waved, looking irritated.
"The way she talks about him, do you think she can keep away?" Daphne smirked.
Fleur seemed to think for a while.
"Is up to him to decide." The French girl finally said.
"I don't think so. If he is with you, he will do anything to make it work that
is how he is. In the end, you will decide…" Daphne approached Fleur. "You two
have something special… but harry and I could have it too and can't just let
him… and I am not sorry for that."
"I appreciate your honesty. I am not asking you for that, I am asking for being
allowed to try. As you noticed, there something happening that even I don't
understand completely, but I owe him to take that chance, as I know he will…"
They stayed in silence with Harry for a little while, both witches thinking
about the next steps. Daphne finally broke the silence in a cold, calculating
voice. "I will give you space, at least for now. He deserves it. Now you should
go, Madam Pomphrey will come back soon."
Fleur nodded and called for Dobby, vanishing in a pop a second later. Daphne
approached Harry and gave him a soft kiss. "You are not alone anymore…" she
whispered.
.oOo.
Katie looked at the fireplace. She was witnessing her new pack getting formed.
Harry was starting to accept his new role; the inner circle was coming
together. She could only be in awe about the multitude of people that had
answered his call. So many different lives and views. She was excited. They
would do great things, and no one could stand in their way. If they play it
right, she could see no more registration laws or stupid mandatory potions.
Daphne could help Harry and her with the political aspect. She really could
conquest what her family was trying at generation, or at least start some real
changes for the future.
HPHPHP
Harry woke up the next day to an abundance of smells. As was now usual, the
scents hit him first. The clean sheets, the wood burning on the fireplace, the
sweet and sour smell of the potions, the comfy old parchment and roses scent
from Madam Pomphrey. He could even feel the faintest aroma of blueberries and
lilies, making the wizard aware that Daphne and Fleur were there during the
night. Harry opened his eyes and was surrounded by colors and light. Even
without focus, it was beautiful. He reached for his glasses, bringing some
order into to the chaos.
"Good morning Harry." The matron approached him and cast some diagnostic
spells. "How are you feeling?"
"A little stiff, especially on the shoulder, but OK I guess…"
"Can you move your fingers for me? Yes, like that…" there was relief on her
voice. She looked at him with sorrowful eyes. "I wish I could do more for you…
but magic healing can only go so far… I wish I could give you back some of
those years…"
"It is not your fault; you've been helping me since you saw me in the first
year. I would be way worse it wasn't for you."
"Maybe I can try to intercede with the headmaster again."
"Maybe, but you and I both know that is futile." Harry held her hand. "Don't
worry; I am getting out there on my own. Other people are helping me." Pomphrey
let out a loud sigh.
"I would ask for you to stay out of trouble, but we both know that wouldn't
fly, right?"
"In my defense, it's usually the trouble that finds me!" He smiled at her. At
that point, the doors of the infirmary opened, letting Neville and Blaise into
the room. The two boys were talking happily about plans for the next Hogsmeade
weekend.
"Hey Potter, don't be a lazy troll," Blaise said with a smile. "Get dressed;
your escort is here!"
"Is he good to go, Madam Pomphrey?" Neville asked more politely.
"Yes yes, just keep him on the ground for a day or two, will ya." The matron
smiled at the boys. "Off you go Harry; there is still time for breakfast."
As he dressed, Harry thought about the two young wizards, and how they had
grown in him. Even they now familiar scents were reassuring to him, even if
different than the girls. Neville was Earth-like, the same smell of the dirty
in the greenhouse, feeling reassuring and strong. Blaise in his turn felt like
something Harry could only describe as salt. Harry never visited the sea but
imagined that it was how it felt. For a moment he got sad about Ron's distance
but brushed it away. They leave the hospital wing, and quickly Harry noticed
people waving at him, or complimenting him for the task. "One day no one wants
to talk with me, the next people are shaking my hand…" Harry commented to his
friends.
"That is the wizardry world in a nutshell for you," Blaise responded. "And they
say is a Slytherin trait, humph! I doubt most of them understand even the
simplest thing about loyalty."
"Yeah, people talk so much about house loyalty and magic inclination that is
funny…" Neville jumped in.
Harry smiled broadly. They get it. "I guess it's easier to be loyal to an
abstract concept like a house or a Quidditch team than to a person with real
flaws and emotions I think, and people feel safer that way." Harry waved to
another random person. They changed to lighter topics as they approached the
great hall.
"Harry!" Hermione charged at him as soon as he entered, Harry welcomed her in a
big hug, which was also good to distract him from the many smells in the room.
Blaise rolled his eyes at him, with a smile, before moving to his place at the
Slytherin table, not before giving Ginny a discrete wave with his hands. It
took Harry a couple of seconds to focus his senses to a point he could almost
function normally. Katie was next to hug him. Harry halted for a second when
the brunette gave his but a discreet squishy.
"That fly was amazing Harry! Next year we will destroy the cup!" She said
aloud.
"Hear hear!" Fred and George lifted their cups, Angelina and Alicia gave him
whistles. He smiled at them, feeling welcome. "That my dear Harry…"
"Was some quality flying…"
"Almost as good as ours…"
"Almost…"
Ginny rolled her eyes, before fixing her gaze on something behind Harry. The
lilies scent surrounded him, he felt the palms of his hands becoming warm, he
was not sure how to proceed, Harry was not even sure it hasn't been a dream.
Harry turned to see Fleur, Gabby, and Regine entering the hall. The younger
veela ran to him and hugged him, asking him something in French, the only words
he could discern were mama and papa, before sitting next to Hermione. Regine
waved at him and sat down beside Fred with a smirk.
Harry turned nervously to Fleur, running a hand through his own messy hair.
"Fleur, I am so glad you're OK… I… I'm… sorry."
"'Arry…" she interrupted him harshly. "Shut up."
She threw her arms around his shoulders and locked her lips on his. The great
hall went silent as he put his arms around her waist and pulled her closer,
their tongues dancing with each other. People watched in astonished silence as
the couple held each other. The silence was only broke by the wolf whistles of
the twins, breaking the spell and sending the great hall into a noisy chaos.
Harry and Fleur just hugged each other, ignoring the surrounding mess.
.oOo.
Hermione didn't know what to feel. She looked at the couple in front of her;
there was no other word to describe, they were a couple now. Holding hands, the
bliss on their faces. She felt so happy for Harry, but also so envious. Fleur
had made a very public statement. She had talked with Daphne about precisely
that. Now was not the time to move, she could be happy for them. They looked
beautiful together. She was sure Harry would never push her aside. And a warm
look from the young wizard confirmed that. Katie seemed happy at her side. "I
guess I will never understand her, maybe is a wolf thing." She thought. In a
certain level she felt even relief, she could focus on being her best self now,
if there were a space for them, the three of them, they would let her know. She
liked Fleur; she was independent, proud, smart and powerful. After today, she
could add courageous to the list.
They kissed again… so beautiful and exciting, the younger witch though, biting
her lip. The conversation moved as time passed, Hermione and Fleur vow to teach
Harry French. Gabby seemed a mix of proud and jealous. Hermione smiled,
identifying with the girl. She felt a hand on her's and looked at Katie, and
she nodded smiling at her. "Goodness, what a roller coaster!" She thought
again. Hermione barely registered when the headmaster announced the Yule ball
and had only brought herself back when she saw Viktor Krum and Roger Davis
approaching. "Krum and Davis seem an awful closer, don't you think?" Ginny
whispered to her.
"Aren't they both seekers?"
"Hello Mr. Potter" Viktor greeted with a heavy ascent. "Ms. Delacour."
"Harry, please Mr. Krum."
"Only if you call me Viktor." Both nodded respectfully at each other. "Your
flight against the dragon was fantastic Harry. I have rarely seen that much
skill outside the professional field. I don't know what weird circumstances led
you into the tournament, but I can clearly see it was not under your control.
And I am sorry for not speaking up before."
"Don't worry; I would be suspicious too if I were in your place, in any of your
places," Harry answered looking at him then at Fleur, receiving a pick on the
lips in return from the French. "I don't hold it against you, even if I could."
Viktor smiled at him. "Great indeed. Maybe we could do some practicing
together, what you think? Roger told me stories about your games. The Youngest
seeker in a century he said!"
"It would be my pleasure and an honor!"
"But not today…" Fleur interrupted holding Harry hurt shoulder. "Today Mr.
Potter here needs to rest and prepare for dinner with his new girlfriend
parents."
"That was fast!"
"You really don't…"
"Play in duty…"
"Harry…" the twins finished in unison making Harry blush. Hermione saw the
Quidditch players setting a date and got up. She needed to walk, to get some
air, to think. Hermione walked down the entrance hall onto the grounds,
wandering aimlessly until she found herself at Harry's spot. The tree trunk by
the lake. Most of the trees had already lost their foliage by that time,
covering the ground in a gold and brown carpet. She sat at the trunk and looked
at the lake.
"I hate to say I told you so…" she heard from behind her.
"Oh, fuck you, Tracy!" Hermione said turning to see the blond girl approaching,
accompanying Daphne, Katie, and Ginny. The girls all sat around her.
"Girl…" Tracy kept going. "That was a claiming if I ever saw one! Frenchie's
got some balls. You don't seem surprised Daphne, or you Kat Kat. Why?"
"Fleur talked to us…" Daphne said in an even tone but giving Tracy an angry
look. The blonde lifted her hands. "Hermione…" the dark-haired witch held
Hermione's hands. " Remember what we talked that day at the three broomsticks,
this is not over, and will not be easy. But he needs to give it a try."
Hermione looked her in the eyes then over to Ginny, who had a confused
expression. Katie looked calm as if she knew something would happen.
"Can… can we not talk about this?" The bushy-haired teen asked. They stay in
silence for a couple of minutes, lost in thought, enjoying the lake.
"You know, that's my sixth year…" Katie said after a while. "One more to go…
and I have no idea what I will do after Hogwarts. Have any of you thought about
it?"
Ginny jumped in. "Quidditch! I will try out for the Harpies in my last year?!"
The redhead said excitedly. "Wait!" She turned to Katie with an incredulous
expression. "What do you mean? I thought we were going to play together. You
are one of the best chasers I ever saw!" Katie let out a sad smile.
Seeing the discomfort of the older girl, Hermione called the attention to
herself. "I actually thought about that a lot. Yeah Tracy, big surprise. I
think a lot." The girls laugh at the blonde half-open mouth. "I keep saying I
want to change the world, and make a difference, at first I thought I would do
that by learning all I could about magic and how it works. So I thought about
going into mysteries. But then I started to realize the many wrong things in
the magical world."
"And there are many things wrong." Daphne said.
"Yes, for a while I thought about dropping all out, going to a mundane college
and letting go of magic, some Gryffindor, don't. But I realized that I care too
much for many people here to simply leave." The four girls smiled back at her.
"So I thought about many things, and what would make more difference. Law
enforcement, politics? I don't think I'm fit for any of those. Then I realized
a way to reach many people, and make real progress…"
"You are coming back to Hogwarts." Daphne concluded.
"Yes, first as a teacher, but hopefully more. I want to plant the seeds of
destruction on young minds." Hermione concluded with an evil smirk.
"I am the heiress of my house…" Daphne said, looking at the lake. "Possibly
more than one." She smiled at Hermione. "And I like the game. I really do. But
I also love healing, like my mother. I am torn between the two, politics or
healing."
"Why they need to be mutually excluding?" Katie asked. "I heard the director of
St. Mungo's was undersecretary before that pig Fudge took the chair."
"Maybe, I don't know."
"They are not opposites." Hermione dove in. "The right politics can save lives
just as much as healing."
"You got a point there, Hermione, a good one." Daphne smiled. All the girls
turned their gaze to Tracy, who blushed furiously.
"I want to be a mom and have a big ass family!" The blonde witch said rapidly,
blushing even more. The other four looked at her, with incredulous looks. Even
Daphne seemed surprised. "What? Just because I am a tiny little brash, I can't?
My father has two wives, and I grew up with two Moms. It was amazing! Roger and
I have almost the same age, and the clan is big. Family dinners at the Davis
are always an event!"
"That's true!" Confirmed Daphne. All the girls laughed
"A big family can be annoying, is true." Ginny nodded. "But is also lots of
fun. And love…" Hermione smiled, she liked the prospect of a big family too.
.oOo
"Girlfriend?" Harry asked Fleur as they leave the great hall holding hands.
Fleur noticed the looks, and for once she felt good about the envious gazes she
received.
"Unless you British have another word for it that I don't know…" she stopped in
front of him at the almost desert hallway. "Then yes "Arry, girlfriend, or you
don't want me?" The incredulous look on the wizard's face was all confirmation
she needed, filling her with pride. They walked a little more, and Fleur
noticed her was guiding him to even more desert corridor. He stopped and asked
without looking at her, sounding a little shy.
"Fleur… can I kiss you again?"
She smiled. "You always have permission 'Arry…"
With a fast movement, Harry turned around and gently but surely pinned her
against the wall, with a gentle but secure move. He looked at her eyes, and
Fleur lost herself in the green. The wolf's eyes. Her wolf eyes. He kissed her,
his hands on her thin waist, as she hovered her's on his hair. The kiss quickly
deepened, their tongues battling for dominance, a battle she hoped to have many
times in the future. Her hand left the wolf's hair and moved to his waist,
pushing him even closer to her. She moaned on his mouth as they hip meet. The
veela felt the bulge in his trousers and clawed his back. She fought to keep
her veela nature in check and could feel him doing the same.
"Mon Dieu…" she whispered when they finally parted. Harry was blushing, but the
predatory wolf eyes were still there. They laughed together.
"I hope you know what you are getting yourself into." The wizard said,
releasing her from the wall. Their breath still fast.
"Don't you start with a 'have to protect the witch' speech, mister. I know very
well who you are and what you are. You are my wolf! My survivor." Fleur said in
an almost commanding tone.
"I wouldn't dare… I have no idea why you chose me, but thank you, for giving me
a good reason to keep surviving." He smiled at her. Fleur gave him another
kiss, much more tamed this time.
"The allure is a form of protection you know. Beauty is a relative concept. Is
subjective, each person or sentient species got its own beauty standards. Yet
everyone affected by the allure finds the veela beautiful. We think is a form
of self-preservation. But it can also be dangerous; some people can be…
possessive."
"I think I understand… but your allure affects me differently… I mean, I can
still feel it but is more like a warm, cozy feel. I mean, don't get me wrong, I
find you beautiful and dare I say hot as hell!" He blushed, and Fleur gave him
her evil smile.
"And that is only one of the reasons I chose to be with you. I was afraid you
wouldn't want me, but I needed to try…"
"I liked you even before we meet Fleur. I liked the person you are before I
even discovered how beautiful you look. I am the monster here remember. The
young and a rabid wolf… the insecure role is mine."
"Prat." Fleur smiled and got closer to him, grabbing his arm. "About that
ball…"
.oOo.
Harry stood in the entrance hall, nervously walking from one side to another.
He was about to have dinner with the French minister of magic, that also
happened to be married to a woman who claimed to be his godmother, they both
were friends if his parents and the worse, they were parents of his now
girlfriend. The fact that his nerves were making him lose focus on his senses
was also not helping. The smells and sounds were driving him mad. Damn, Harry
didn't even know what to dress.
The smell of lilies and vanilla brought him back to his senses. He turned to
see both Fleur and Gabrielle coming from the Beauxbatons carriage. Gabby was
dressed in dark jeans and a light pink blouse, with a heavy and furry purple
coat over it. The young girl seemed as energetic as ever, talking with her
sister. Fleur looked beautiful to Harry, and he almost couldn't believe. She
was dressing a blue dress, with a high neckline and knee-length. With a very
subtle geometric pattern on the bottom. White pantyhose and black boots. She
was wearing a dark blue jacket and a scarf around her neck.
"Mon Dieu, it's cold." She said before kissing Harry. "And the snow is not even
here yet, how can you manage?"
"Lots of firewhiskey…" Harry laughed. They heard steps behind them, his senses
gave him a warning, and he turned to see the headmaster coming through the
entrance hall.
"Good evening Harry my boy, and good evening to you both Mademoiselles, may I
say you both look stunningly radiant tonight." The old wizard said giving them
a warm smile. Harry instincts kicked in, and he tensed. Fleur must have
noticed, as she held his hand in reassurance.
"Merci monsieur Dumbledore," Fleur answered politely. "Thank you for allowing
us to see our parents."
"It is my pleasure. The carriage will take you to the village and back. I trust
Mr. Potter completely to keep you safe, but as a Matter of precaution, having
two of the champions and the daughters of a foreign dignitary, a second
carriage will follow, with some Aurors. A perk requested by the ministry
officials itself."
"Thank you sir." All three of them nodded. The headmaster gestured to Harry to
approach him, wearing his signature grandfather smile. The scent of the man was
strong and dominating. Harry needed all his concentration to come closer to
him.
"Harry my boy." Dumbledore said in a low tone. "Now, I am well aware of your
new-found relationship with misses Delacour. I want you to go and have fun, and
look after them." Harry nodded at him. "But I must warn you, the persons you
are about to meet are politicians, and outstanding ones at it. And you are a
prestigious influential public figure, so be prepared. They may try to leverage
this for their political advantage. But you are an intelligent young man, and
even though I hoped to keep you always from politics for a couple more years, I
am sure you will handle yourself brilliantly."
"Isn't that what you being doing all those years?" Harry though, but instead he
just said. "Yes sir." Without looking in the old wizard's eyes.
The headmaster waited until the carriage arrives. Harry saw the now familiar
skeletal horses, and noticed with a smile that both girls couldn't. The old
wizard wave them goodbye as they entered the strange vehicle and Harry let out
a breath, sitting down on the soft bench. Fleur noticed his tension and rested
her head on his shoulder. "So that is how is going to be now… always something
happening around you."
"I hope you're up for a ride mademoiselle…" Harry said brushing a hand over her
hair.
"You can bet on that." The veela answered with a smile, giving him a soft kiss,
on the other bench, Gabby blushed and tried to look away. Harry, feeling her
discomfort, asked what she was thinking about her first school year, and help
with some French words to impress her parents, making her feel more welcome.
Fleur squished his hand and smiled in approval. It took about forty minutes to
the carriage to arrive at Hogsmeade and the beautiful chateau the Delacours had
rent for the weekend, the young wizard nervously knocked on the door, and was
received by the almost supernatural vision of Apolline, dressed in a more
informal long-sleeved white dress.
"Good night Harry." The older which said, pulling him into a kiss on the cheek,
making him blush furiously and the girls giggle. "Please come in. Ma cherries!"
She said in a warm voice, hugging and kissing both her daughters. The chateau
was not big, but was really comfortable and welcoming. A lit fireplace emanates
a light warm, and a dining table was placed on the left corner, closer to the
big windows. Jacques finished opening a bottle of wine and poured four glasses.
Approaching he handled one to Harry, who took with a little hesitation, before
shaking the man's hand, the right one this time.
"Good to see you out of bed Harry. You put on quite a show!" He said with a
bright smile, before moving to hug his daughters. Both Fleur and Apolline got
their glasses, Gabby get herself a cup of grape juice, and they all sat around
the coffee table next to the fireplace. Harry and Fleur dividing a loveseat'
"So, how are your shoulder Harry? Still hurt?"
"A little stiff, but getting better by the minute, thank you sir."
"Please Harry, no sir… Jacques. We can dish the formalities, let them to the
public."
Apolline was looking carefully at both Harry and Fleur, playing with her glass.
She gave her older daughter a knowing smiled. "Anything interesting happened
today?"
"Fleur kissed Harry!" Gabby said out loud in French, although Harry was sure he
knew what she had said. Fleur looked at her with evil eyes, and both Jacques
and Apolline looked at each other. Harry waited for the barrage of questions,
but Jacques only shrugged his shoulders.
"I hope you know what you are getting into Harry, being with a veela can be
marvelous and scary at the same time." Jacques said, holding his wife's hand.
"Anyway, dinner is ready, and I am starving!"
"Weird, they seem really OK with it, maybe is a French thing?" Harry thought.
The smell of the food was delicious, and Harry let himself drown into it for a
moment. They eat talking about pleasantries, school subjects. The young wizard
noticed they were actively avoiding asking him about more touchy subjects, like
his life outside of school. After dinner, Jacques pulled them another glass of
wine, while Apolline talked to Gabby. A very upset little veela came to say
goodnight to them, before apparating with her mother. Jacques, Fleur and Harry
came back to the living space next to the fireplace. Fleur was now openly
holding his hand Apolline apparated back a couple of minutes later. "Madam
Maxine sends you her regards, darling." She took her own glass and sat with her
husband. "Now Harry, I know you must have many questions, and we will do our
best to answer it. It's not going to be easy on any of us, but is a step we
need to make together."
Harry looked at her pale blue eyes and nodded. "Do you know where Sirius and
Remus are? Are they OK?"
"First thing he asks is about the well-being of otters, well choose Fleur"
Jacques raised his glass. "Yes Harry, they are at Delacour manor as we speak.
There is a process to grant Sirius the status of political refugee running on
the French magical court, at least until a new trial is held on Britain." Harry
took a deep, relieved breath, before looking at Fleur for reassurance. She
smiled at him. Harry turned to Apolline next and asked in a low voice. "Are you
really my godmother?"
"Yes Harry" Apolline answered with watery eyes. "Sirius and I took the vows
together a month after you were born. We have been friends with your mother for
years them. Fleur probably doesn't remember, but she was there too. She wanted
to take you home with us." She smiled at the memory. Harry looked at her in
silence, magical colors dancing around her, her lilies scent betraying her
emotions, there was no signs of lies, just sorrow. "We had so many plans…"
"Why… why I never knew? Why no one told me?" Fleur stiffened at his side.
"You disappeared Harry." Jacques said. "After the... fall, after Sirius was
sent to Azkaban and Remus run away, we looked for you. We looked for you
everywhere. Not even the ministry of magic knew your whereabouts. We hired
detectives. Whatever happened, you simply disappeared from the magical world,
and the only person who knew was Albus Dumbledore. And we pressure him, yes we
did. But the man is too powerful, too well connected."
"It is true Harry." Fleur said looking at him. "Ever since I can remember, mama
and papa were looking for you." She looked at the floor, ashamed. "During a
time I even hated you, for the attention they gave to your searching."
"I am sorry Fleur." Her father said with a heavy voice. "The only thing we knew
was that you were alive. We even visited privet drive, more than once. Some
notice me not for magical beings kind of ward must be active there; to us the
house just seemed empty."
"I was there…" Harry whispered, swallowing his own years. "Wishing I could
escape." The watery eyes turned to him.
"Harry…"
"I only learned my name was Harry when I was five, at the school… before that I
thought my name was freak…" Fleur and Apolline gasped. The younger which could
see the mixture of fear and rage in the wolf's eyes. Jacques swear in French.
"Then you reappeared." The man pressed on, feeling it was not the time to press
the boy for more. "When you started going to Hogwarts."
"Why didn't you try to contact me then?"
"We did…" Apolline spoke, a touch of desperation in her voice. "We sent you
owls, cards, gifts, and never got an answer."
"I… I never got them, any of them…"
"Now we know, but for a while we thought you hated us. We thought you hated us
for abandoning you, for letting you alone. We watched from afar. Heard the
scary stories. We thought you hate all of us, until Remus and Sirius turned in
our door. When we heard what you had been through, that you don't even know we
existed."
"But… how come Fleur could send me letters?"
"Bertrand is a special owl, after I got my candidacy for the ministry, he was
granted an untraceable charm, so he could not be blocked like our other owls."
Harry was actively crying now, sorrow for what he lost, and rage at the ones
responsible mixture together. If not for Fleur's embrace he was afraid of
losing control. His life was an even bigger lie than he knew.
"Why… why he did this to me? Why condemn me to be alone, to live in hell…"
"He wants to use you Harry." Jacques said after a moment of silence. "Your
parents were already having trouble with him, when they discovered that. He
knows something that concerns you and Voldemort. I also think he wants to
leverage you for his own political goals. He knew Sirius was thrown in jail
without a trial. He is the only one who knows about your parents will."
"Why can't we confront him?"
"We tried, he has too much political power, we need to be smart, or he can take
you away for good. Why do you think he didn't register you as a werewolf? He is
keeping this card. Just now we are starting to get the power to fight back, but
it must be done right. We need to expose him. And there is also Voldemort."
"Don't be fooled, he is an enemy of the Dark Lord. He wants him destroyed as
much as we do. To erase his own mistake." Apolline said.
"I can't go on as nothing had happened!"
"You don't need. He knows very well who we are, and probably knows we are
telling you all of this. Now you know, now you can defend yourself. He will try
to win you back. To break your will again, like he tried all those years."
Fleur held both her hands in his face, turning Harry to look at her. "Just now
you are not alone anymore, I am here, we are here with you 'Arry."
***** Chapter 13 *****
AN: I do not own Harry Potter and don't make any profit!
Thanx for reading!
                                  Chapter 13
 A rage, stronger than any fire, burns deep inside each one of us. There is no
other way to put it, it burns, and it consumes us. It is our greatest weakness
     and also gave us incredible power. You must understand, young pup, as
       everything magic gives us, is neither good nor evil. It just is.
The rage is frightening, both for ourselves and for others. The first time you
 swell in it, is intoxicating feeling of strength, the speed, the raw magical
power. But, the bloodthirsty, the need to hurt, the lust, are all also all too
   real. Magic creates life but also destroys it. The rage makes us magic's
                                   hunters.
Without proper guidance, we can quickly fall prisoner to the anger that burns.
   Its power is addictive. To let it take over us, to fight and kill without
  mercy, is tempting. But, fighting against it is the recipe for failure and
 despair. Fighting it only results in death. The death of the wolf, or in most
                     cases, the death of those around him.
One must embrace it. The rage is part of us, and only through accepting we may
   conquer it. The anger gives us the power to kill, but also to protect. Is
  through it that we can see magic's colors. We are magic's ultimate hunters
because of it. With time, as you learn how to embrace your anger, it will make
you stronger, your senses sharper, you speed will increase, and magic will run
                              through you easier.
                 We are magic's hunters, and we are the rage.
                                     .oOo.
Fleur felt Harry finally calming down as the carriage stopped in front of them.
She was feeling weird, and a little earlier she almost could feel his anger
bleeding through her. Veelas were empaths, and it was easy for them to detect
and read other people's feelings, but that was different. Fleur could feel his
rage, like a scratch on the back of her mind, mixing with her feelings. It was
scary and exciting at the same time.
They hopped in the carriage and sat side by side, and Fleur could see that his
resolve was coming back. Harry had the gaze he usually did when trying to think
ahead. "Sorry for my little outburst back there. Sometimes it's hard to control
myself." He said suddenly to her, holding her hand tightly. Fleur smiled at
him.
"Who am I to lecture you about it 'Arry. I wanted to burn the bastards to the
ground myself, I confess. I am not an example…" She giggled, and Harry smiled
and kissed her. There she felt again, the scratch on the back of her mind. So
subtle Fleur almost missed it. She looked at him, trying to read his emotions.
The anger was still there, but under layers of caring, awe, pride and… lust.
Fleur moved a finger over Harry's lips, and licked her lips; the wolf smiled at
her, and in a quick movement captured her lips. She opened her lips, letting
his invading tongue play with her own. As before, they battle for dominance,
Harry's hand on her waist and the other on her neck. Fleur felt his passion,
all his resolve running through his lips. Her arousal was growing. The veela
let her allure run free, focusing on the wizard in from of her, feeling his
temperature rising, his hands mapping her back from top to bottom.
Fleur felt like she was drinking on their passion, feeding each other's needs.
The witch let herself go in her wolf's arms. Never had she felt anything like
that. In a bold move, Harry moved both his hands under her bum and pulled her
to him, and Fleur let herself be taken, running her leg over his lap, not
allowing their mouths part, kissing and biting, moving her hands in his hair.
When their hips met, she felt the bulge of his stiff member under his trousers,
pressing against her panty clad folds; she cursed the layers of fabric between
them, clawing his chest. Harry's hand ran in her tights, under her dress to
find her perfect ass. She moaned with his callous touch, his hands were rough
but carrying. Fleur started rocking in his lap, Harry's strong grab helping her
move. She cried and gasped for air, as the wizard attacked her neck and
shoulders. The veela bit her lips feeling the small orgasm building in her
core. When she looked at his face, he was smiling, the most predatory smile she
had ever seen on his face, and that was enough to push her over the edge. Fleur
bit his neck as she came, trying not to make too much noise.
She stayed there, on top of him, Panting and smiling. His hands were running
through her back slowly, caressing her. Harry gave her neck small, loving
kisses. "How you do this to me?" She asked. "I am the adult here!"
He looked at her with a grim.
"Magic!"
                                     .oOo.
Platform 9, ¾, five years ago.
Severus Snape stood looking at the sea of children in front of him with a fake
air of disdain. At his side Kingsley Shacklebolt did the same with his hawk
like eyes. Severus was actually shocked with the number of children; he
remembered when he took that ride for the first time. There must have been at
least two times the children then than what he saw now. The war had really
taken a heavy tool in the magic population of Britain. No wonder Hogwarts had
so many unused classrooms.
"Remind me why I am here again?" He asked the big man on his side.
"Because you owe your life to the old man, and forever you will do his dirty
work." The man answered without looking at him, making no effort to hide the
disgust on his voice. Severus sighed. As much as he hated it, Shacklebolt was
right. He was trapped, maybe forever. Even so, the dark man knew he deserved
it, it was the price to pay for not spending the rest of his days in Azkaban,
and also, he still held hope to help.
That's when he saw the boy, Lily's son, amidst the procession of red haired
kids. The first thing that struck him was how much he looked like James, but
missed the arrogant air the pureblood had. No, his manners and walk where all
Lily's. He seemed in awe, looking around, walking with his beautiful white owl.
The second thing Snape noticed was how small he looked. Something was not right
there. He was even smaller than many of the girls in his own year. He nodded to
Shacklebolt and showed him the boy. The big man seemed sad. "Well, I will
patrol around the station; you keep an eye on the kid." Snape nodded as the man
walked away.
The boy seemed lost, looking around. He clearly hadn't any contact with the
book for muggleborns. Once again, Severus questioned the idea of keeping the
kid ignorant about who he was all these years. Looking closer he could see the
oversized clothes he was wearing, and the broken glasses. The boy who lived
looked like a small bun.
Then a girl approached him, black hair, with Ivory skin. She looked proud with
her new school uniform, and eager to help him. The boy smiled at her, and the
girl helped him to the train. Severus heart hurt when he saw the girl's parents
and knew what he had to do; the headmaster had been very specific in his
instructions. He followed the small couple inside the train.
It broke his heart seeing them talk happily, the boy seemed to crave contact,
and the pretty little girl was eager to give him. They sat in a cabin, and
Snape could hear the girl talking. "Wait here a little Harry, I will fetch some
of my friends, Tracy and Susan will love to know you! Be right back!"
"O... ok…" the boy answered shyly. The girl came out of the cabin with a big
smile on her face and stopped in front of Snape, with a jump.
"I'm sorry sir…" She said with her hands in the chest. "You scared me a
little."
"No problem." Severus said in an even tone. "I am professor Snape, you are..?"
"Greengrass, Daphne Greengrass sir."
Snape sighed. "I am sorry Ms. Greengrass, I hope you forgive someday." The cute
girl looked confused, then scared when he pointed his wand at her and said.
"Confundus…"
                                     .oOo.
Harry felt like he was flying, even with his feet on the ground. His "defense
club" was going well, he had his friends, his pack, around him (even if some of
they didn't know about It.), he was able to spend time with his beautiful
girlfriend, and the next full moon would coincide with the term's end. Not even
Ron's death glares or the prospect of detention with Snape over the next week
were able to bring his mood down.
At first, Harry was worried about how the other girls would react. He really
liked Fleur, to be with her was like a dream, but he didn't want to chase the
others away, but to his surprise, none of that happened. "Or maybe I am too
stupid to notice anything." He thought once or twice. But everyone seemed ok
with the new dynamic. Katie especially seemed thrilled about Harry and Fleur's
relationship. Crazy witch.
After the carriage snog, Harry and Fleur decided to take it a little more
slowly, but their more private kisses, when no one was looking, always ended up
heating up, with needy hands and carefree exploration. They were not sure if it
was her allure or his werewolf nature, and Harry didn't care. He actually liked
and seemed like Fleur also did.
Harry met with Fleur at the carriage's door, and they walked hand in hand to
the great Hall were they meet the others, this morning he was finally going to
be able to fly with Viktor Krum. And he was stoked. It had been almost four
days since the first task, and he was eager to fly again.
The morning was cold, and the French girls seemed especially affected by the
freezing wind. Harry had caught Fleur complaining about the Scotch weather more
than once the last few days. "What's next, rain and snow at the same time?" The
three girls had heavy coats and scarfs around their necks. Hermione, Daphne,
Blaise, Ginny, Luna, and Katie completed Harry's little Entourage to the
quidditch pit. The wizard noticed Luna was carrying a camera.
"I love this smell…" Harry whispered on the field, taking a deep breath,
feeling the scent of the humid dirty, the wind and the lake. The fact that he
could feel so many of his friends' scents closer to him just made him feel even
better. Fleur and Katie looked at each other with a knowing expression and
smiled. After just a couple minutes Viktor Krum showed up, accompanied by Roger
Daves and two other durmstrang students, a robust looking boy and a petite
dirty blond haired girl.
"Hello, Harry." The champion extended his hand that Harry gladly took. The
Bulgarian seekers had a strong wood scent to Harry, feeling as strong as his
build. "Let's have a good flight, shall we."
"Of course Viktor, I'm here for the fun; we both know I don't stand a chance."
"Is never wise to underestimate the adversary, I did it to you once and will
not do it again." Harry just smiled at that. Luna took a step forward with her
camera in hand and a dreamy smile.
"Hello mister Krum, I am Luna Lovegood, Harry's friend, my father and I have a
small publication, and we would like to publish an article about the champions,
not like the one on the prophet mind you. We want to show the true persons
behind it, and their cooperation and friendship. Harry and Fleur already gave
me permission, but I will not do anything without yours as well."
Viktor eyed the petite girl with suspicion, then at Harry and Fleur, who nodded
in approval. He shrugged. "Anything is better than that terrible lying paper
anyways, so, why not. But I would ask you to run it through my agent before
publication, little girl, is that ok?"
"Thank you, I agree, I am pretty sure their offices are filled with snarkles,
and that is why they can't write correctly." Viktor wide eye looked at Harry,
who simply signed negatively with his head and shrugged, as the others laughed.
"And there is only one way to remove snarkles, and I doubt they do it there."
Harry smiled widen as he saw Viktor's mouth opening and closing, without
understanding.
"And which way is that, Ms. Lovegood?" Viktor finally asked.
"Orgasms of course! They are extremely allergic to it, which is the reason you
and Harry don't have any." Luna answered with the most neutral expression in
the world, as if she was just stating the obvious. Viktor blushed furiously,
and Harry noticed Roger blushing too. "I will start by taking some pics of this
recreation game if is not a problem."
"No, not at all…" Viktor whispered, wishing to end the strange conversation as
fast as possible. "Aren't you going to join us, Ms. Delacour?"
"Oh non, I much prefer my feet on the ground mister Krum. Today I will just be
a spectator." Fleur gave him a bright smile. Harry removed his jacket getting a
horrified look from Hermione.
"Harry! You are going to freeze like that!"
"No Hermione," Katie said in her ear. "That way he won't overheat. Remember?"
The bushy haired girl finally seems to understand and nodded. Katie released
the training snitches, five of them. Harry got on his Firebolt and lifted
himself.
"Simple training run. The one to get most snitchs wins? The Raven boy asked.
"Seems good to me!" The Bulgarian seeker responded, getting into his broom and
ascending fast. So fast, Harry watched with awe, he knew the young man was
leagues ahead of him, and that brought a predatory smile to his face. Harry
quickly tailed the other seeker, studying his movements. The older wizard was
precise, meticulous. Scanning the pit, pretending not to notice Harry right
behind him. In less than a second, Krum disappeared from his sight. In a swift
movement, Viktor was diving at dead drop speed, and Harry quickly followed, as
fast as he could. "This is probably a faint…" the young wizard thought.
But he loved it. The blowing wind on his hair, his hands tight around the
broom, all his senses sharp as a knife. He could feel his body temperature
rising. Suddenly a golden wind exploded in the left of his head. He was not
sure if it was his wolf senses or the actual snitch, he only knew it was going
up. With a quick maneuver, Harry turned upside down and with a spin managed to
change the direction of his fall without losing too much momentum. After a fell
seconds, he was rising almost as fast as he was falling, and he saw the golden
movement line. Harry finally understood why werewolves couldn't play. He
clearly could see the magical path of the little golden orb ahead. Rising, and
rising. The wind was blowing on his ear. His roaring was the only sound he
could hear. Everything else disappeared. Including Krum.
That proved to be a fatal mistake when Harry felt the older wizard body
slamming into his own. "Damn he is fast!" It was all he could think while he
struggled to keep control at high speed. The Bulgarian extended his hand to the
golden sphere and tried to snatch it, but thanks to Harry's own slam on his
broom he came an inch short. They both smiled at each other as they pressed
after the little magical object. Once again Harry tried to rotate in his on
axis to get free if the other seeker, without losing sight of the snitch. But
Krum turned with a rim. Then older wizard realized that although Harry may be
faster, he was stronger.
Suddenly the snitch changed direction again and started going perpendicular to
the seekers. With a fast movement, Krum shoved Harry with his feet, away from
the magic ball and rotated one hundred and eighty degrees. Harry tried to get
back on track, but with a bold move, Krum lifted himself from his broom,
keeping contact with only one hand, his entire body on the air, giving him
maximum reach, and snatched the snitch mid-air. Harry himself gave him a roar
for the brilliant maneuver as they started descending to the field.
Only now Harry could see the gathering of students from all the three school
that had come to watch them fly, screaming and cheering. He could see Angelina,
Alicia and the twins, and even Cedric amidst the watchers.
"That was amazing!" He told Krum as they landed. "You really are incredible."
"You too Harry, your reflexes and your speed are something else!" The Bulgarian
extended his hand, which Harry gladly took. "In a year or less, you will be
able to go professional my friend. Just a little more training."
Harry felt a little sad, but the feeling was quickly pushed aside by Fleur's
lips on his. "You both were great Harry! Look at all the people cheering!" She
said with a touch of pride in her voice.
"So," Krum asked. "Which of your friends here play?"
"Katie, Blaise, and Ginny," Harry said pointing at his friends currently at the
field.
"Hey, Roger, Brune." Viktor call. "What about a friendly game." Harry saw his
friends' eyes got as wide as their smiles.
"Sure." Roger Daves answered. "As long you and Harry play keeper…"
                                     .oOo.
Daphne waited inside the room of requirement; the place looked like a perfect
dance floor. The wireless played a soft tune, and she got lost imagining Harry
and herself dancing at the Yule Ball. She knew it was not going to happen, but
she didn't care, not at the moment. She liked him, and she even liked Fleur and
was not one to give up. And it was fun to dream about it.
She didn't really understand all Katie's talking about the pack, inner circle,
alpha. She knew it was important, but right now Daphne was debating what to do
with her own feelings. The girl had promised Fleur space, but the witch also
knew that Harry could change his mind, or even legally stay with both girls.
But, was she herself ok with it? Well, at least Fleur was beautiful. And Daphne
had grown watching Tracy's family, and they always seemed happy. "What am I
thinking? I need to calm down, and I don't even know if I like him that much."
Daphne snapped.
She then remembered all the moments they had, all her dreams, ever since the
second year. "Yes… I do…" Then she felt the strange tug on the back of her head
again. That was getting her worried. "I really need to check this up with Mom
over the holidays…"
The truth was that she cared much for them, not only Harry, but Fleur,
Hermione, Tracy, Blaise, and even Katie, Ginny and Neville, the group had
cracked her emotional defenses in ways she didn't even know was possible... "My
ice queen reputation will suffer, but who cares, I may not need it anymore."
The door opened, and Harry entered the room, looking confused at the
configuration.
Daphne giggled at his dazed look, and she liked when the building leader, or as
Fleur liked to call, the wolf, gave place to the confused and amazed boy in
him. "Hum, Daphne… what is this?" He finally asked.
"There is a ball coming, and I will teach you how to dance." She saw him
blushing. "Before you start. I know you are taking Fleur, don't worry, I will
not even be in the school at the time."
"No? Why?" Did he sound disappointed? Sad? Seemed like it.
"I have some important family matters to attend at home Harry, as much as I
would like to pass my holidays with you, with all of you." Daphne stood up and
approached him. He took his now familiar deep breath, feeling her scent. She
rejoiced in the knowledge that he liked it, and that made him feel calm and
secure. "But the Yule ball is a fantastic opportunity for you. The new Black
family heir. The Potter scion. The press will be here to see you and your
veela. Do you understand how important of a statement that is? You need to
cause a good impression, and I will help you."
"Thank you…"
"Don't mention it, and I need you to look good when I became the new lady
Greengrass-Black." She said casually, and Harry blushed furiously, making
Daphne laugh.
"Teaser…" He said. Was she?
"You really need to grow a thicker skin, Harry. Come." Daphne extended her
hand. "Come on, hold my hand." Daphne was surprised, although, with red cheeks,
Harry didn't hesitate in taking her hand. Fleur was doing well to him it seems.
"Good, is all about imposing yourself and looking confident." She walked with
him to the edge of the floor. "Remember you are going to enter the ball with
probably the most beautiful girl in the school, use that to your advantage." He
smiled at her. "What?"
"Nothing…"
"Harry?"
"Just inappropriate thoughts, never mind…"
"Having sassy dreams already, are we?"
"No! Ok, I just think you are as beautiful as her." Daphne blushed. "And that
is not the reason I like you both. I mean, the fact you are both gorgeous
help…" he giggled at her red face. "But I like you both as your own persons…"
"Well, thank you, I guess… ok… first, you enter with her. At this moment, let
the world see her, let them see how proud you are of being there. Probably
there will be some announcements and presentations, just endure it." Daphne
moved to the floor holding his hand at chest high. "When the first dance is
announced, move with her to the floor. No need to hurry, this is not
Quidditch."
"No, it is way more dangerous…" Harry said, and Daphne rolled her eyes. They
stopped at the center of the dance floor, looking at each other. Daphne found
out she couldn't contain a small smile and seemed like the wizard couldn't
either. She took his other hand and placed around her waist, feeling the
tension in the air.
"Now, I will show you how to lead, but it is your job to do so. Don't worry,
and I don't expect you to get it on the first try, just relax." She placed her
hand on his shoulder. Both were enjoying the closeness. "Now, try to follow my
lead." Harry stumbled at first, but just like Daphne expected after watching
him duel, his movements were graceful enough, and he quickly got the pace,
although with some rhythm issues. "There, you are getting it…move the other
foot…"
They danced one song than two, and three. Smiling at each other. Daphne felt
right. Even the scratch on the back of her mind didn't bother her. How foolish
she was to believe in her prejudices, to believe in others from her house.
There she was around a complex young man, who made her feel accepted and
wanted.
The music slowed down, and Harry stopped, blushing. She knew she must be
blushing too. Daphne now placed both her hands around his neck and approached
him, to her pleasure; he also wrapped his arms around his waist. Her heart was
pounding as they slowly moved across the dance floor. They stay in silence,
dancing.
"You are not half as bad as you said, Harry." Daphne finally got to say when
the music stopped. They were so close.
"Thank you Daphne…" he whispered. They stayed close even after the music had
stopped. His body was so warm, he was sniffing her hair, and she loved the
shiver it sent down her spine. When they finally parted she looked at his
bright emerald green eyes.
"But you need more practice Potter." She said trying to give him a smirk. "Same
time in two days?"
"You bet."
                                    HPHPHP
Ron walked through the echoing hallways and corridors at a precise, steady
pace. At first, he was unsure, but he had already come here, there was nothing
more to lose. Hermione had rejected him, Seamus and Dean preferred to talk to
each other, and his own family was on Harry's side all the time. And his so-
called "best mate" had no problem shoving it in his face. At least the sneaking
little snake saw his valor, and he was even starting to enjoy her presence.
Crabbe and Goyle were at the classroom door, as they usually did. Ron entered
without even acknowledging them. Inside the empty room, amidst broken chairs,
Pansy was waiting for him. Her short black hair was shining, reflecting the
light coming from the doorway. She gave him an evil smile when he entered. He
knew she was using him. Maybe he liked it.
The Slytherin girl held a small box in her hands. She signed for Ron to come
closer to her. She was sitting on the old professor's desk with crossed legs,
her robes open, showing the school uniform under it. Ron's gaze stood for some
time on the way a big part of her tights was revealed and was unapologetic
about it.
"Like what you see Weasley?" She asked in a sultry voice.
"Can't say I don't." He answered harshly. "Since when the two trolls follow
you?
"They want the same thing as myself, so I am letting them help me."
Ron stopped at her side on the table, leaning on it. "Does Draco know you are
shagging his goons?" Ron said with an evil smirk.
"Fuck you, Weasley; I shag whoever I want, and fuck Draco!" He raised his
eyebrows. "If Draco wants to suck the Dark Lord's cock like his father that is
his problem, none of us want to be dragged along. He can take that fat cow with
him if he wants. But not me, nor Crable and Goyle." The look on the witch's
eyes was fierce, and Ron couldn't help but admire it.
"Anyway, I have something for you, if you are willing to help me." She extended
him the box.
Ron could see it was addressed to Draco, and she signed for him to open it,
inside there was a wand. Long and dark, different from the ones Ollivander
made. "An untraceable wand, Ron, imagine it. No shit ministry rules, no way for
anyone to know who used it. Remember what I told you about retribution?"
He took the wand in his hands, and his parents would kill him if they knew Ron
even touched it. The thought makes him smiled. "So, what's the catch?"
"You need to help me break Draco."
                                     .oOo.
Amelia Bones stepped out of the fireplace with a sigh and looked around the
beautiful room, decorated in a tasteful art deco style. It had been an
extenuating voyage, floo, two portkeys and another foo from the ministry of
magic in France to the Delacour residence. Very taxing of her own magic. A
beautiful woman was waiting for her, dressed in a sober, but very feminine Dior
dress, in contrast with Amelia's auror trousers and boots, and a dark coat.
"Bonjour Amelia, it has been a long time." The woman said in a very welcoming
voice.
"Fourteen years Apolline, you don't look a day older."
"Merci, you look very good yourself, Amelia." Amelia indeed looked well. At her
late thirties, the witch was fit from her constant training, and her features,
although hardened by years of service in the Auror force, were quite pleasant,
adorned by a dark red hair. "I'm happy to see you got where you want, chief of
the DMLE."
Amelia smiled remembering the time she shared her dreams with the woman in
front of her when she could even call her friend. "And I would never imagine
Jacques as Minister, he hated politics if I recall, just like Sirius and
James."
Apolline giggled. "Life led us to strange paths. How's Suzan? She must be a
young woman by now."
"She is fine, and I did my best to raise her as my own daughter." Amelia sighed
and looked sadly at the veela in front of her. "As much as I would like to
catch up, I am here for a reason, and it had been a long trip."
"Of course…" Apolline answered in a defeated tone. "Please follow me director
Bones. The woman led Amelia through the house, very well decorated, but much
modest than the red-haired has initially thought. The Delacours we're an old
blood family in the continent, but not as wealthy as some of the British
dynasties, its true power were their political connections. It made sense; most
of the French's magical aristocracy had been wiped along with its non-magical
counterpart. They arrived at a big double door, and Apolline gestured inside.
"Please, if you need something, don't hesitate to call me."
Amelia nodded and opened the door, and she didn't know what she hoped to find
inside the studio, for the first time in many years she was afraid.
And he stood in front of her. After more than thirteen years, the man she hated
more than all, Sirius Black. The man who stole her youth, her happiness. The
man she loved. He looked much older than Amelia remembered. Silver locks showed
through his hair and his goatee. He was much slimmer, almost like a shadow. But
the more significant difference was in his eyes, there was still fire there,
but of a different kind. In their youth, there burned a love for life,
adventure, and lust, things that made Amelia shiver just to look at it. Now
there was something darker, angry, vengeance. Hurt. The Raven tattoo on his
neck brought her memories and tears sneak her way to her eyes.
"Hello, Amy… is good to see you." He said with a smile so sincere that hurt
her.
With three quick steps, she closed the distance between them and with a loud
crack slapped him in the face. The man closed his eyes and smiled. "I probably
deserved that…" Crack! One more slap on the other side. "This one I don't know
if I did… ouch." Amelia was crying, and she didn't care anymore.
"Tell me it's true; tell me you didn't have anything to do with those deaths,
thirteen years Sirius, thirteen years. I couldn't even move past you! You
ruined me!" she was sobbing and making no sense.
"I am sorry Amy, I am sorry. They fucked me good. I didn't kill those people,
and I didn't betray my friends… I didn't leave you…"
"They said you were dangerous, that you were so far gone, I couldn't even see
you, I tried, and I tried! But I had to move on Sirius, for Susan. I had to
move on. Goddess, I hated you so much. So much, almost as much as I loved you…"
Amelia was interrupted by Sirius' arms closing around her. It took her a couple
of seconds to realize he was REALLY there, embracing her.
"I know…" was all he said before they stood in silence.
When they finally departed, Amelia assumed a more stoic and professional facet.
Looking deep into Sirius' eyes. There was a valley between them now, but it was
not the time to amend it. No, now was time to work. "I am here in official
business Sirius, but before I need to know. Who did this to you? To us?"
                                     .oOo.
One thing people didn't know about Bellatrix Lestrange was how careful of
observer she was. That was one of the reasons the dark lord had her on his
inner circle. She could easily read people, and spot when they were lying. That
and all the violence.
So it came as a little surprise, when the dark witch realized. The new,
handsome young Auror, who looked at her with a mixture of lust and fear, was
actually caring for her, watching her closely. He was on their side.
Fenryr would love it!
                                     .oOo.
Severus Snape waited, looking at the ceiling of his house head office at the
dungeons. Many things running through his mind, Draco's house arrest was about
to finish, and the slick professor debated if it was safe to give the boy his
wand back. It was incredible how the power had shifted in Slytherin; people now
looked up to Daphne Greengrass. Not only had her little alliance with the
Gryffindor's golden boy had her protected, but the news of her father's
maneuvers at the wizengamot and his proximity with the French Minister had
worked miracles with some of the more neutral families. But what really
bothered him was Harry Potter. The headmaster had been awfully specific about
what was to be done. "Lily, I hope one day you and your son forgive me… as the
dark lord is getting stronger each day, and I am a coward…"
The sound of knocks on his door brought him back from his thoughts. "Come in…"
he said in the bleakest voice he could muster. Harry Potter entered the room.
Something had really changed in the last two months, or so, it was visible.
There was an air of confidence around the boy. Then usual looking to the ground
had gone. And his emerald eyes now had a feral quality, all the same dangerous
and caring, and the professor was sure it was not just because of the
lycanthropy. The only other person he knew that had that aura around her was
the boy's mother itself. Severus felt tightness in his chest. He was sure the
headmaster saw it too. "That is why you are so afraid old man? You are afraid
of him becoming like Tom or Lily?"
That only made what he has to do even harder.
"Potter…"
"Evening professor."
"I understand the headmaster has warned you about what we are going to do this
week." It was not a question. Severus used his most cold voice possible. The
boy nodded. The fear Snape expected to see in his eyes was not there. Instead,
he saw defiance. "Sit Potter." The professor pointed to a chair in front of
him. "I understand you have resisted Professor Moody's imperius curse." The boy
nodded again. "Let's try it them."
Without warning, the dark man produced his wand from the sleeves of his robes
and waved it with a whisper. "Legiments." The boy's eyes went wide, and Severus
saw himself surrounded by Harry's thoughts and emotions. Surprise and fear hit
the professor's own mind coming from the Raven haired boy, the rage, so much
untamed and raw fury. It burned the older wizard mind, and he subsided.
"Hum, it seems your natural defenses are quite strong, I may have
underestimated you." The angry look of the boy was almost amusing. "Let's try
again."
One more time, Harry's eyes widened, and Severus was invaded by the boy's raw
emotions, but his own occlumency shields were ready this time. "Pathetic." He
said in an even tone, but loud enough so Harry could hear. That was not right
though; the rage Severus felt was almost overwhelming. As flashes of the boy's
thoughts passed through the older wizard, Snape felt something was wrong. He
felt like something was watching him, stalking him.
Severus knew what to look for. Maybe if he finished the task the old headmaster
gave him quickly, he could even teach something to the boy. Damn old man!
People looked at him as a messiah, as a prophet. The prophet of the light, some
people called him. How Snape hated the old wizard, and most of all, himself.
He knew what he was looking for. The Delacours. Their last meeting, how much
the French's told Harry. Right now he was being bombarded by disjointed
visions. Snape saw the cupboard, Hogwarts Express, Lupin and Sirius, the
dementors. The professor suddenly had to resist the urge to look over his
shoulders. The feeling of being stalked was ever growing. But Severus knew he
was close. So much resistance. He finally saw the French girl, the veela
champion, and stopped, looking at the boy's memories. Not only her, but by also
his half-blood friend, and Greengrass.
Snape approached the memory with hunger, and he wanted to finish it as fast as
possible. But he noticed something wrong. The stalker finally made a sound, a
roar resonated on his mind, and he turned around only to see an enormous wolf
pouncing at him right before the connection was lost.
Severus feel to the ground by reflex before realizing the wolf was not there.
Or so he thought. When he looked at Harry he saw the wolf in his rage induced
eyes. The boy got up fast, so fast that Snape barely had time to point his wand
and launch a silent stupefy. The spell hit the boy in the chest, and he
screamed but did not stop. In a second the wolf was over him with an inhuman
roar.
"POTTER!" The professor screamed, making the boy stop. Reason came back to his
eyes, and the boy got up, panting heavily, his fists clenched. Severus got up
and fixed his robes. "Maybe you are more dangerous than we thought Potter,"
Snape said without looking at him. "Maybe some chains are necessary for you.
Maybe a leash." The boy's rage was palpable. "I am starting to think you are a
menace to the other students Potter."
Harry looked at him in defiance. "Only to those who threaten the ones I care or
me…" he answered.
"Tomorrow Potter, rest assured I will be more prepared, now get out of my
sight!"
                                     .oOo.
"He did WHAT?"
Hermione could not believe what she was hearing. "He tried to invade your mind?
To… wasn't he supposed to teach you occlumency so you could defend yourself?
Why?" They were sat in the room of requirement waiting for the defense club
meeting to start. Daphne was in the chair by his right side, and Harry and
Fleur on a sofa in front of her. The other two girls looked wide eye at the
wizard as he finished his recollection of his "detention."
"I think he was looking for something… I felt like he was very specific before
I lost it…" Harry said.
"Good thing he underestimated you…" Daphne offered, also scared that a
professor would do such a thing.
"But he was right you know… I may be too dangerous, and I attacked him… just
like I attacked Malfoy."
"Non 'Arry. You defended yourself! He attacked you! I hope he had pissed
himself after seeing what he was up against!" Fleur stated.
"I agree," Daphne concluded in a neutral tone. Harry smiled at them, and
Hermione saw Fleur squeezing his hand.
"There was something more…" Harry continued. "When I mentally attached him,
right before he let go of my mind, I think I could see his mind…"
"What do you mean Harry?" Hermione asked.
"I could see myself boarding the express, at the first year, like he was
watching me…" the four stayed in silence, digesting it.
"Maybe we should go to the headmaster or to Minerva about it," Hermione said.
"Non…" Fleur said in a commanding tone. "I say you fight back! He wants to know
something, and so do we. I say, let the wolf do it, enter his mind and make him
taste his own medicine." Her gaze was fierce and predatory. "'Ermione, I
believe we can fetch some books about legilimency and occlumency. Also, we can
ask Katie."
"Fleur…" Hermione said in an uncertain tone. "You are talking about a
professor."
"Who tried to mind rape, Harry!" The French were fuming, beautiful in all her
angry glory.
"Again, I agree," Daphne said. "What kind of game you are playing Daphne?"
Hermione thought, looking at the black haired girl. "Harry?"
The wizard was silent, thinking. He looked at them with a smile. "Let's go for
it. I want to know what and why he is doing it." Hermione reluctantly agreed.
She was uncomfortable, especially with how aggressive her veela friend could
be. But wasn't that precisely the reason Fleur was with Harry and not her.
The other club members arrived, first Neville accompanied by Hannah and Susan.
Ginny arrived accompanied by Blaise and Tracy, the proximity of her red-haired
friend with the tall Slytherin made Hermione smile. The twins and their small
entourage came later, and Luna got there right before Katie. Harry quickly
talked to her. Hermione noticed the desire in both their eyes and thought if
how they would do next to the full moon.
The meeting transcript without problems, Hermione found out that Harry was an
even better professor than she expected. Before the end of the meeting, the
wizard gathered Fleur, Daphne, Katie, Regine and herself.
"If you guys are up to it, I would like to try and teach you the patronus
charm. Not only it is a useful charm, the process of learning it helped me to
get in contact with my magic. I think it can do the same for you. What you
think?"
"Do you think we are ready?" Daphne asked.
"I know you are." The confidence in his voice fueled Hermione with her own.
As the other members left the room, Hermione approached Fleur, who was chatting
with Gabby. "Fleur, can I talk to you?"
"Of course 'Ermione." They walked to a more reserved corner from the room.
Hermione bit her lips, looking at the older witch, who simply smiled at her.
"What is worrying you?"
"Do you really think is a good idea? For Harry to risk himself like that?"
"'Ermione, why are you asking me and not him?" The veela gave her one of those
evil, beautiful smiles, which made Hermione shiver. "Do you think I have this
kind of influence over him?"
"I don't know…" in a swift movement, Fleur took both her hands.
"Think 'Ermione, you know him, you love him…"
"Fleur!"
"I know you do, you don't need to hide. 'Ermione, 'Arry come to us for love and
advice. But his decisions are his alone. I respect him too much to forcing him
to do anything."
"But you could stop him…"
"Could you? In all the stories you told me?"
"No, he can be so stubborn…"
"When it comes to protecting us. He needs you now 'Ermione, he is learning just
how surrounded by enemies he is. We need to remind him that he is also
surrounded by love."
Hermione looked at Fleur. Deep in those blue eyes. The veela really believed
that, just like Harry, the French believed her. And she was not one to
disappoint. "You are right Fleur. Sorry, I am just worried I think."
Suddenly Fleur hugged her. "That's because you love him. And he is doing all
this, all this fight, because he loves you too."
                                    HPHPHP
After the lunch on the next day, Katie walked with Harry through the grounds.
heading for the forbidden woods. It was funny how it became way less scary when
you're one of the creatures the professors warned the students about. She
giggled and looked at Harry, he had changed, and he was starting to accept who
he was now. The young wolf was fierce and protective. "He is even hotter now…"
she thought. "But I promised Fleur." She finished with a sigh.
She knew Harry wanted her too, she could see it, and she could smell it. Fleur
could see too, the veela was sensitive to it, and she was no fool. But Fleur
trusted Harry, and was trying to trust Katie. And the she wolf was not one to
betray her pack's trust. They walked in a comfortable silence into the deep
woods until they reach a clearing. Harry stopped and looked at her. "Who is
here?" Good, he caught the smell.
"Harry, I want you to know my former alpha, the man who taught me everything.
My grandfather." Benjamin Bell walked out of the woods; Harry looked at him
with reverence on his gaze. Katie watched as they stood staring at each other.
The old alpha and the new. She could see the colors dancing around them as they
studied each other. Magic itself seemed to sing for their meeting. Katie felt a
little apprehensive. But the smile formed on his grandpa face shoved the
feeling away.
"It's an honor to finally meet you, Mr. Bell." Harry said first, extending his
hand. Benjamin took it and gave a strong shake.
"It's a pleasure Potter. I can clearly see why Katie chooses to hunt at your
side. You may still have a long way to run, but I can see you are eager to
learn."
"Thank you sir. May I ask why meeting here?"
"My relationship with your headmaster and some of those ministry officials
are... intermenting at best. I prefer they don't have the knowledge i was here,
and the forest have enough creatures to mask my presence. But let's focus on
the problem at hand. Katie's owl explained some to me. Is this professor trying
to enter your mind?"
"Yes, he is seeking some knowledge. And I am afraid what he will do with it. I
was able to keep him at bay last time, but I don't know if I can do it again."
"Then don't do it…" both Harry and Katie looked at him in disbelief. "How far
have you gone in remembering your hunts as a wolf?"
"I have flashes sir; if I concentrate I can remember details."
"Good, come Katie, let me teach you both to hunt inside your mind."
                                     .oOo.
The afternoon classes were finally over and Fleur could finally leave the
carriage for the evening. It was her last year after all, and she needed good
grades, tournament or not, conspiracies or not, if she wanted to pursue a
career as curse breaker. Maybe next year she could try an intern at the Diagon
Alley's gringotts, to stay closer to Harry. This though made her pause. "Am I
really thinking about my future in relation of Harry? I really like him this
much?" It was all new to her too. Harry still had two more years at school, and
somehow Fleur had a feeling they would not be peaceful. Regine had left to meet
the twins and their girls. Fleur noticed something off there too, Fleur noticed
that her friend's aura was confused, maybe things were not about just fun
anymore.
She found Harry talking with Blaise and Neville at the entrance hall. Hermione
was near with Daphne and Katie. Fleur, seemly unnoticed approached the girls
and hugged a surprised Hermione. The younger girl almost jumped with a little
eep sound, making Katie laugh.
"Goodness Fleur, you scared me to death!"
"Always vigilant 'Ermione isn't that what that scary professor of yours says?
Also, my hug is not so bad…"
"No, not at all…" Hermione blushed furiously, making both other girls giggle.
"Did 'Arry meet you grandfather?" The French asked Katie.
"Yes, but I think he's nervous. He said he was afraid of exposing you, or the
other members of the club." Fleur looked at the boys talking about some
assignment from the herbology class they just had. Even so Harry looked
worried, like his head was elsewhere, as it probably was. He was so young, yet
he cared more about things than anyone older than himself. He cared about
others.
When she asked him why, he confess that it kept him going, to think of a better
place for those he loved, when she pressed more, he finally said, he was afraid
of not making it. Death was all too real. He could feel in his bones. Harry was
afraid to die before fixing things. At that time Fleur held him so close. She
realized she was the one crying, as he tried to comfort her, caressing her back
and kissing her forehead. That was when she knew how in love she was. And
decided he was going to live. No matter how, she was making sure of it.
Remembering that she approached her Harry, yes, he was hers, she was possessive
and she knew it. Just like Hermione, Fleur embraced Harry from the back and
kissed his cheek. The wizard smiled and turned to kiss her mouth. "Oi get a
room you two!" Blaise said with a muzzle.
"Shut up Zabini."Harry answered blushing.
"Although it is not a bad idea…" Fleur said in a sultry voice, biting Harry's
ear, and making him and both boys blush.
"I can assure you…" Katie let out before covering her mouth with both hands,
blushing too. Fleur just laughed.
"You English are so stiff." Fleur gave them her best evil smile and looked at
Hermione. "Maybe we should take them at some of those Riviera beaches to losing
up, don't you think 'Ermione. Some even allows top less…"
"I know…" Hermione simple rolled her eyes and smiled.
"Oo la-la. I guess 'Ermione is even bolder than we thought." Fleur finished
kissing a now very aroused Harry. Neville looked like he wanted nothing more
than disappear and Blaise had a silly smile on his face.
"You witches are trying to kill us…" Harry commented affectionately returning
Fleur kiss.
They noticed Viktor Krum approaching accompanied by Roger Daves as usual. The
Bulgarian had become a good friend of lately, and had expended some time with
them. People now talked about the champions that became friends, even if Cedric
hadn't come around. Fleur suspected it had more to with the wizard's girlfriend
than the other champions themselves. Viktor on the other hand has bloomed with
them, becoming more open and friendly each day. It was clear the taciturn
facade was a way for him to deal with the people running around him for his
name. In this he found an equal both in Harry and Fleur.
"Hello Viktor." Harry offered. "You seem worried?"
"Indeed I am my friends." Viktor sighed and came closer, with a flick of his
wand he casted a privacy charm. "You see, I realized I can't take the person I
really want to the ball, but I am nonetheless obliged to go." Fleur gave
Harry's hand a squeeze, they had suspected that. "I thought in taking some
fangirl, or someone I barely know, but I would not feel comfortable, and
following you example Harry, I would like to bring someone from outside my own
school…"
"I will go." Hermione said promptly. "I don't have a pair yet, and we can sit
closer to Roger, so you can enjoy at least part of the ball together. If is ok
with you of course…"
"Hermione…" Viktor said with a smile. "You are a lifesaver, a brilliant
beautiful lifesaver!" He kissed her in the cheek. "Are you really ok with it,
don't you have someone you want to go, a pretty girl like you must have tons of
invitations."
"I had some…" the bushy haired girl said while blushing. "But that way I can
also go with the ones I want…" she finished looking at Harry and Fleur.
"And I can go with Daves." Katie finished. "I was not even thinking in going, I
am a damn bad dancer, but if I can help, why not!
"Incredible, it's a date. then!" He said before leaving with a relief air,
smiling at Roger. Hermione seemed satisfied with herself. And Fleur have her
encouraging hug. But both witches noticed Harry's angry look.
"What's the matter Harry?" Hermione asked. "That way I don't need to go with
someone I don't feel comfortable with, why are you looking like that?"
"Is Harry jealous?" Fleur thought.
"No Hermione." He finally said. "You were brilliant. I am mad at everyone else.
Why couldn't he go with the one he wants? Why people have to judge and give
them hell? It's unfair, why can't people just be with the ones they love?"
Harry looked at them and sighed. "Sorry, I know I am being a hypocritical ass.
The full moon is getting closer and is getting a little hard to control my
anger. I like Viktor… Mrs. Weasley can be a controlling piece of work
sometimes, but she said something that was true. Love grows, but only if we
allow it to grow, then it can match everyone… or something like that." He
kissed Hermione in the cheek and then Fleur in the mouth. "I have to go, dance
then detention…" both girls watched him walk way, absorbing what he just said.
Fleur looked at Hermione, the younger witch biting her lip. "Didn't she just
say she wished to go with both of us?" The French thought.
                                     .oOo.
The wireless played a soft tune at the background, and the two lonely teens
moved through the dance floor, hand in hand, slowly swinging to the music.
Harry and Daphne had practiced spins during the forty minutes they were there,
the wizard found it rather fun to spin the beautiful girl around and see her
robes floating with the movement. But now they were just enjoying the
proximity, bating on each other's presence.
"So…" the witch finally asked. "Are you really moving forward with this?"
"Is not like I have much choice." He answered. "The other option is to let him
enter my mind and know about us… or about Fleur's parents. I can't allow that…"
there was another spin, but this time Daphne took hold of the movement, and to
Harry's surprise finished the spin with his back glued in him, the wizards arms
around her chest and shoulders. She could feel his breath in the ear. He still
stiffed for a second, but relaxed and resumes moving to the music. Daphne
smiled. "Are you going to tell me what is wrong?" He asked in her ear, making
her shiver. She could feel his movements on her own hips, and was sure he could
smell her arousal forming in her inner thighs.
"What do you mean…?"
"Why are you not staying for the holidays?"
"Always perceptive… I need to see my mother… I need her help with something…"
"Are you sick?"
"No… I don't know… but i feel something is wrong… and she may be able to help
me… also…"
"The ball?"
"Yes, I promised Fleur…"
"Am I a hypocritical bastard? I really like her; I am in love with her… but…"
"You are in love with me too… I know, she knows… I can even feel it." Daphne
moved her hips feeling his hardness and giggled.
"Not funny… I don't know what to do… but I am with her, and I understand if you
don't want anything with us anymore, I will still protect you, with all I
have."
"But I do want everything to do with you. It is my choice. But one step at
time… first you need to manage Snape…"
                                     .oOo.
Severus Snape fell on one knee, panting and sweating. "One week… we have being
through this for one week…" he looked at the boy in front of him, also panting,
still at the chair, but looking at him with those feral eyes. "But I am getting
closer… but I am not sure anymore who is hunting who…"
Every Time he got closer, the beast chased him, stalked him, hunt him. It was
too real. So real that the professor started having nightmares of himself being
chased in the forbidden Forest.
For some reason, the boy's mind was like a maze of rage and instincts. And
Severus felt himself watched, guided and stalked all the time. There were
instances when he had to flee! Like a prey in the woods. Who taught him that?
But he was getting ever closer. But every time the wolf gets to him he felt the
attack on his own mind. The boy was extraordinary. He could clearly see how
perfect of a martyr he would be on the old man's cult. He watched as reason
came back to Harry's eyes.
The boy looked at him with a grin. The words he spoke sent shockwaves of
understanding to the professor, he was being hunted all the time. Harry looked
at him and said.
"The order of the Phoenix…"
***** Chapter 14 *****
AN: Some people PMed me about the different kinds of magic. Well, the best
real-world parallel is religion. Each society, or in this case, sentient
magical been, has a different view of this force they can bend, but not
completely understand that is magic, and each interprets in a different way. Is
any of those interpretations the true one? Probably not.
AN2: Thanx to AWR and Master42 for the beta reading, and thank you for reading,
and also sorry for any mistakes!
AN3: Also.. smut/lemons…
Chapter 14
Wizards think of us as dark creatures, driven by only lust and thirst for
blood. Most believe we can be no better than circus freaks or potion  addicts .
Monsters to be used to scare their children as bedtime stories. They are right
in fear us.
For us, there is no light nor dark, nor good or evil magic, only the colors of
life and death. But the truth can be even worse than most wizards' fears. There
is indeed a way a wolf can become the monster they fear, indeed, even worse
than they can ever imagine.
Our kind tries to live life to its fullest; hunt, fight, love as much as you
want, as often as you desire. Magic is life. Rejoice in it. But there is a
secret. One sin. One rule so secret to us that when it's broken is our duty to
destroy the sinner.
One shall not eat human flesh.
But why would one do it in the first place? For the same reasons, people do
harm to things everywhere. Power. Human flesh can make us more powerful than
any wizard could ever imagine. When a degenerate wolf devours human flesh, he
also devours its magic. It's very soul.
That way a wolf can learn new spells, increase the amount of magic that runs
through him, and acquire memories. Through tainted blood, a wolf can live
forever. But doing so, by consuming other beings souls, the sinner also
consumes oneself. The same blood that feeds this new magic also feeds his rage
to no end. The wolf will always need more. Will always seek more. Making a
newly bitten wolf eat the flesh of the hunt will also enslave that person for
eternity. A form of corruption of the pack bond so horrendous that the only
possible answer is death itself.
One tainted wolf may have the power of an entire pack alone but will have no
soul. The only color he can see is red. And to lose all the colors, all life
magic has given us, is a fate worse than death.
.oOo.
Albus Dumbledore pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling the weight of all his
years on his shoulders, and placed his half-moon shaped glasses on the big
table, the sound of a maniacal, sarcastic laugh echoing through his conscience.
The pile of old books and weird magic instruments around him, unbelievably
balanced over one another in odd angles, trembled with the light pulse of magic
that came with his frustrated sigh, the old man has warned him.
He put on his glasses again and looked at the slim man in front of him. Severus
Snape appeared to be even paler than usual.
"How was that even possible Severus? You had expended years shielding your
mind. I pretty much believed that no one other than myself or the dark lord
could reach it."
"It was something different Albus. He didn't try to invade my mind. He lurked
me, stalked me until I gave the information out of… fear…" He finished in a low
voice. Albus realized the man was ashamed of himself. "But where did he learn
that?"
"That, my dear Severus, is precisely the question. It seems that there are more
secrets around the boy's mind and his condition than we initially believed.
That makes the question in order even more urgent. Did he learn about the
prophecy?"
"No, just the existence of the order." Snape looked around as if afraid
something would jump on him at any moment. "The boy is dangerous headmaster!
Prophecy or not! The monster I saw in his eyes or in his mind was all too real!
You must remove him from the school!"
"And place him even further away from our vigilant sight? No, we need him here;
we need him closer, where we can control the boy. To send him away would be
leading him even closer to the darkness. Your fear is clouding your judgment."
The headmaster looked at the ceiling, lost in thought. "I believe you have
somewhere else to be right now Severus. We will talk about it again. I need to
think."
The pale professor got up and walked to the door. He looked at Albus once more,
with concern on his face. The headmaster gave him a reassuring smile before the
man leave.
Albus looked at the door closing, already lost in thought. Severus Snape knew
too much for his own good after everything was said and done, something would
have to be done about him. Maybe a powerful obliviate would be enough. But
Harry was a more urgent problem. The boy had an all too important part to play.
And he was slipping out of his control. There was also the impostor's matter.
The fake Alastor has a meeting with Lucius Malfoy, and it was clear now that
the death eaters were on the move. At least they were playing their part as
planned.
"It will never work, you know?" The laughing voice sounded in his head. Nah, of
course, it would.
People already saw Albus Dumbledore as the prophet of light, now all he needed
was a martyr.
.oOo.
Severus Snape heavily walked from entrance hall to the castle's gate, feeling
like he was dragging an iron ball chained to his feet. It felt almost the same
way as the walk he made fourteen years ago. The chilling wind felt all too
appropriate, the ice accumulated on the walls, the big trees hanging around the
gate, totally naked of foliage by now, extending its claw-like branches to him,
fueling his mind with images of wolves and mazes. The man felt trapped in a
circle of betrayal and fear. He had lost control of his own life.
Reaching the outside of the gates, the broken man sighed and apparated away.
Snape appeared again at the edge of Hogsmeade. He quickly surveyed his
surrounds, making sure no one saw him. With fast steps the wizard walked into
the village, heading to the three broomsticks. Entering the in, he moved
forward without a look at any of the people present and rushed up the stairs to
the rooms above. He stopped in from of the door to the second room to left and
knocked. The door opened by itself and Severus found Narcisa Malfoy walking
from one side to another inside.
"Finally!" The woman hissed as he entered. "I was afraid you had walked away
from me."
"You know I would never do that…"
"Do I?" She looked at him with stone cold eyes. Something more was happening.
The woman took a medium sized box from the bed and gave to him. "There you have
it, all the final ingredients…"
"Are you sure you want to move forward with this?" Severus interrupted her. "He
is your son!" He barely registered the cracking sound as Narcisa's hand slapped
his face so hard that the man almost lost his balance. Her face was a mask of
anger and fear.
"How dare you. How dare you! I am doing this for him! To protect him from
himself and his monster of a father!" Narcisa Malfoy was openly crying now.
"Lucius is plotting something, the death eaters are gathering. He is expending
our money to bring that monster back! And Draco wants nothing more than to be
in, to be like his father! My son will be free from him, even if I have to make
the most heinous thing a mother can do!"
Severus Snape looked at her with sadness and pity. For the second time, he was
to betray a child for what others think was the best for them. The first time
he was terribly wrong, he just prayed this time would be different. "This
amount would let me produce enough to last this entire year…"
"Good. When can you have it done?"
"Is already almost ready, those ingredients are the last ones missing. In three
days."
"See it delivered to Pansy then." She looked him in the eyes, with gratitude.
"Thank you, Severus. I will never forget…"
"Neither will I…" Severus thought with sadness.
.oOo.
Three days later, a big wolf, with fur black as the night itself, scanned the
Forbidden Forest with both his sensitive nose and piercing green eyes. He moved
swiftly, almost without any noise. A more sensitive observer would notice that
not only his size was not average, been closer to a dire wolf specimen, but
some other somewhat subtle differences. The frontal creature members were
stronger than usual, with a more significant range of movement, and his fingers
were longer, almost like hands. And there was a unique flash of intelligence in
his glowing eyes, making him an even scarier hunter.
But right now, the big wolf was on a different kind of hunt. He had smelled
something weird in the forest. A new, yet very familiar smell had struck him.
It felt like grass and… vanilla. He sniffed the air, searching for the source,
and moved again. The forest was dangerous. He should not venture too deep into
it. Bad things happened when he tried. Things that smelled like the old liar,
things that prevent him from moving. But he captured her scent again, and it
was closer now. She was also looking for him.
A crack to his side, a soft furry smell… wood and leather. The young centaur
saw the light in his eyes when he turned on his direction and knew that it was
better to keep distance. The wolf growled to make sure the other understands,
it was safer with the herd. But the wolf was glad, and centaurs meant no
spiders around.
Quickly he reached a clearing; the full moonlight was cutting through the
trees, almost bright as a winter's day. The air was chilling, little vapor
clouds came out of his nose, reflecting the moonlight as he breathes. There she
was on the other side. Almost as big as him, with a dark grey fur, and the same
intelligent eyes, but in a light brown color. They looked at each other,
studying, as they moved slowly around the clearing, in a circle, keeping their
distance. The wolf head was low to the ground his teeth showing, and he had
never been so close to another wolf other than the one who bit him… he didn't
know what to do. But he knew her…
In a bold move, she lowered her head and moved across the clearing, getting
close. Her body was showing a mixture of respect and pleading. The wolf tensed,
watching her approaching. The female stopped close to him, and lowered herself
in the front paws, looking up to the suspicious big black wolf in front of her.
Then she pounced on him.
It took him just a second to realize that it was not a real attack, she was
playing. The female jumped over him using her body to slam him to the ground
and jump around him, all her body, her scent, everything saying to him. "Play,
let's play!" The wolf rolled on his back and counterattacked, but she was
faster and dodged. He pursued her all over the clearing, illuminated by the
moonlight, finally pinning her down, and rolling with her, like two puppies.
The wolf felt right, it was right having her here. Suddenly both of them
stopped and sniffed the air. They were not alone anymore.
Both wolves raised their heads and let out a deep, scary howl, which resonated
through the woods. Gone was the playfulness. It was time to hunt.
.oOo.
The express trip home had never taken so long. Or so it seemed for Daphne
Greengrass. The train was nearly empty; only a few people choose to return home
for the holidays. Most students elected to stay at the castle for the ball.
Even her little sister decided to stay, much of her demise. It took Harry's and
the rest of the defense club a promise to look after her for Daphne to feel at
least a little comfortable letting her stay.
Even Tracey lively chat about her family holidays or her innuendo messages
about Ginny and Blaise couldn't take her mind off the green-eyed wizard she
left behind. Daphne couldn't help it. No matter how much she tried, her mind
always ended up coming back to their dance practices. Images of her dancing
with him at the ball, dressed in a beautiful dress, she smiled at the thought
of the jealous looks on the other girl's faces and blushed at her own
imagination presenting her with the things she would like to do after the ball.
"You are thinking of him, aren't you?" Tracey's voice brought her back to the
real world. Tracey was smirking at her, and Daphne noticed she was red as a
Weasley. "And thinking good thoughts as I can see."
"Shut up Tracey! It's not like that!"
"Imagining yourself dancing with him, his wand pressed against you? Or do you
prefer it pressed against your back…" The blond girl teased, herself looking a
little flushed. "I know you like it like that…"
"I swear I will never get drunk with you again!" Daphne was feeling
embarrassed, and the moisture forming between her legs only made it worse.
"Come on; we had a lot of fun that night!"
"Yes, we did… but I shared those things not expecting for you to use it against
me!"
"But now you want to have fun with him, right? A different kind of fun." Tracey
licked her lips playfully.
"I want to have more than fun Tracey…" the blond girl eyes widened as Daphne
spoke. "I think I'm love… I mean, for real…"
"Well, after you get to know him, he is not that bad… other than the tendency
of getting himself into trouble…"
"You have no idea…"
"Well, there is only one little French problem…"
Daphne sighed, her friend was right. She respected Fleur but was not sure the
veela was right for Harry. She was not even English, or from a noble house. But
again, maybe Daphne just felt jealous. The veela dared to do in three months
what Hermione hasn't in two or three years. She deserved some props for that.
Daphne was lost. If it were another man, the veela allure would mean she had no
chance at all. But Harry was not affected, and the young witch knew he liked
her. "I don't know what to do… if you said, I told you, so I swear I am going
to hex you!" Tracey held her hands up in a surrender posture, but her smile
said it all.
The platform was almost empty, and Daphne quickly spotted her father in a chat
with Lenora Daves, one of Tracey's mothers. After greetings, it was set for
Tracy to visit the day after Christmas so that they could spend some time
together. After the blond witch left with her mother, Arthus and Daphne moved
through the floo to the Greengrass's manor. It was a three stores house; build
over the centuries, at the suburbs of muggle London. The Greengrasses were an
old and wealthy family, although not noble. They exceeded in trades and
commerce for generations, buying their sit in the wizengamot thought
connections and dirty money.
At arrival, Arthus looked at his daughter, his beloved firstborn, with a sad
face. "Your mother is at the hospital. She will be home in a couple of hours,
after her shift. How are you darling?"
"I… I don't know father, things are happening too fast."
"I am sorry; it was never our intent to you or your sister to get dragged into
this mess…"
"Daddy… I'm into this of my own accord. You and mom taught me very well how to
choose my battles, and I feel this is one worth fighting." Daphne could see the
pride in her father's eyes as he smiled at her.
Sarah Greengrass arrived from the hospital a little before dinner, happy to see
her daughter home, the three of them had a lovely family meal, Daphne enjoyed
hearing her parents talk about their days, missing the feeling of normality.
She found herself wishing to bring Harry to her house, for a nice dinner with
Sarah and Arthus, talking about their future. No veelas, no manipulative old
men, or psychotic wraiths. How he would be happy to have a regular date. How
would she be happy.
After the dinner, Daphne headed to her room. Very little of it had changed
since she was eleven, being empty most of the year. There were more books and
dresses. But some of the stuffed animals still there. A dragon and unicorn
moved to make room as she lay in bed. The witch thought of wolves and balls
until she heard a knock on the door. "Come in…" she said.
Sarah Greengrass entered her room with a smile. The woman had the same
porcelain skin Daphne had, but her hair was of a brownish tone, just like
Astoria and was cut short. The older witch was dressed in a beige nightgown,
ready for the night. Daphne sat on the bed, making room for his mother to sit
at her side. "I know something is bothering you, dear… want to talk about it?"
"Mon… I don't know…" Daphne sighed.
"It has to do with Harry Potter?" Daphne looked wide-eyed at her mother. "I
noticed the way you looked at him during the first task… you seemed almost
hungry dear…" Daphne blushed.
"My goodness, am I that plain?"
"We all are when in love Daphne…"
"Why I took so long to even talk to him? Why did I believe in the shit Draco
and the others said about him, he is nothing like that! I always looked at
Harry from the sides, and I knew you were friends with his parents. Damn, I've
had a crush on him since the second year. Now he has a girlfriend, Fleur
Delacour nonetheless, the other daughter of the alliance. How ironic is that!"
"Language Daphne. Your father and I always asked ourselves the same thing. You
seemed to be getting along so well on that day at the platform when we asked
you to talk to him. We wanted to check how well he was, because of our
relationship with his parents. But you never talked about him, and we thought
you two had a fight or something… what's the matter, Daphne?" Sarah looked at
the scared expression on her daughter's face; she was pale, with eyes wide
opened.
"Are you telling me that I talked to him before this year?"
"Daphne, you helped him enter the Hogwarts Express. You two talked about how
beautiful his owl was and how thrilled Tracey and Susan would be to meet him…
in your first year…" Tears of fear were running on Daphne's face. Sarah looked
worried at her. "What's wrong?"
"Mom… I don't remember ANY OF THIS!" Daphne screamed. Sarah's med witch
training kicked in, and in an instant, she had her wand running diagnostic
spells.
"Lizzy!" With a pop, the house elf appeared in the room.
"Yes, mistress."
"Lizzy, call for Arthus immediately, tell him to come to Daphne's room."
Feeling the urgency in her mistress's voice, the elf disappeared immediately.
It didn't take long for the head of the Greengrass family to storm into the
room, just as his wife finished running the first basic diagnostic spells.
"What's happening?"
"Something is wrong with Daphne's memories. I ran some basic spells, and
nothing was apparent. I will try more specific ones now." Sarah waved her wand
in a more intricate pattern; a small circle of runes surrounded Daphne's head
like a halo and started shining in a particular order. Sarah's eyes widened as
she understood what happened. "My goodness…"
"What?" Both Daphne and Arthus asked at the same time.
"Daphne had been hit with memory-altering spells at least three times!" The
three of them looked at each other. "I will try to identify and reverse it, but
whoever did it is really versed in mind magic."
"The headmaster?" Daphne asked, afraid.
"Or someone else he controls, Albus Dumbledore hates to dirty his own hands.
Whoever it was, I will make them pay!" Arthus promised in a resolute voice.
HPHPHP
Harry woke up engulfed by a very familiar and pleasant smell and it was not
Hagrid's breakfast. He opened his eyes to see a nice amount of black hair laid
on his chest, and the lovely scent of grass and vanilla. He never felt so well
after a full moon cycle. Katie was laid on his side, her head, arm, and leg
over him, still sleeping. As he felt the warmth of her very naked body against
his, memories of the last nights came back. They played, they hunt. He felt so
close to her now, that the simple thought of leaving her hurt him.
Instinctively he pulled her a little closer to him. Granted it was different
from Fleur, or even Daphne, but the feeling was there.
His movements woke the girl in his arms, and she looked up with dazed eyes and
a big smile. As much as he tried, the smile brought back memories that made
Harry stiff. "That is an amazing way to come back…" she whispered. "I can
definitely spend my nights like that." Harry smiled at her in agreement. "Where
are we?"
"Hagrid's hut… he helps me, and now helps you too, I guess." Katie squeezed him
a little more, and Harry could feel her breast against him. It felt delicious.
She lightly grinded her hips against him, and Harry had to control himself, the
memory of the two together was to close. "Usually he makes breakfast, but I
guess he is not used to receiving beautiful naked girls." Katie giggled and
held him a little stronger.
"Beautiful?" she asked, pleading with her eyes.
"Hell yes, never doubt that Katie!" She finally sat up, and Harry could see her
beautiful breasts and the fit body. Harry felt his cock twitch and hated
himself for it. "Last night was amazing, I felt… complete…"
"Wolves hunt together…" she said. "And we will always be together Harry, you
are my alpha, and we are a pack, I chose you, because of your heart. Even if
your girlfriend never lets us be together again. Maybe if she joins us…" Katie
joked.
They both blushed at the thought.
.oOo.
Fleur walked in the cold snow, wearing a heavy coat and the scarf in the
Gryffindor's colors that Harry landed to her a couple of days before. She
really liked to feel his smell so close to her. The witch headed to Hagrid's
hut. She couldn't understand why Hermione or Daphne had never done that. Maybe
they still too uncomfortable with this side of Harry's life. Fleur was
determined not to be, just like he wasn't worried about her being a veela.
Maybe they could eat breakfast together, and Harry always complimented Hagrid's
honey bread.
Fleur saw the half-giant sit on the outside of his door, covered by an enormous
fur blanket, lightly smoking a pipe and with a mug the size of her head in
hand. She raised an eyebrow at him, as he looked surprised at her approach.
"G'morning misses Delacour." The big man said with a bright smile.
"Good morning professor… what are you doing outside? Is freezing!" Fleur asked
curiously and saw Hagrid blushing under his beard. Something was off.
"Hum… I wanted to give 'Arry some privacy…" the man blushed even harder, Fleur
knew something was up. Harry has told her that Hagrid usually collected him at
the edge of the forest, and brought him to his hut. Why the subtle shyness on
the part of the half-giant?
"Nonsense!" Fleur said, with some annoyance in her voice, storming up the
steps. The big man tried to stop her, but it was too late, the witch opened the
door and entered the messy hut, only to see Harry Potter, her boyfriend,
putting on his shirt, his trousers unbuttoned, and a pantie clad Katie Bell
lifting up her skirt. Suddenly Fleur was not cold anymore. She felt a fire
burning in her insides. She looked murderous to the girl, then to Harry.
"Hi, Fleur…" Harry said, blushing at her. "Katie joined me the last night. I am
glad Hagrid collected her clothes too." He smiled reassuring at her. The boy
had explained he usually woke up naked, but the veela didn't expect Katie to
join him, at least not like that. Her magical veela nature started whispering
in her mind "my wolf…"
"Huuum…" Was the only sound she could make. Harry rolling his eyes didn't help,
and the hungry looks Katie were giving him either. Hagrid made sure Katie was
dressed, before entering and serving the table in an uncomfortable silence.
Fleur watched with hard eyes as Harry sat down, with a pleading expression at
her. The French sat on his side, in front of Katie. "So… are you alright
'Arry?"
"Yes." He answered eating a slice of bread; both of the werewolves looked
famished. "It was great not being alone. I mean, sorry Hagrid, but having
another wolf with me was great." Fleur could not believe how clueless Harry was
being.
"Hum…" Fleur let out again. "And what have you done all night?" She looked at
Katie with narrow eyes.
"We run, we howled, we hunt, explore until where the wards let us go… I think
was that."
"Nothing more?" She sounded annoyed. Harry looked into her eyes with a hard
expression. Maybe he wasn't so clueless after all.
"Yes Fleur, nothing more. We woke up here this morning just a few minutes ago,
right before you entered."
Katie stood up. "Well, I better get going. I promised Gran to write him about
tonight." She sounded nervous. "I guess I catch you guys later… bye." With
that, she put on her jacket and moved to the door. Hagrid also stood.
"I will accompany you to the castle." Leaving quickly, letting Harry and Fleur
by themselves. As soon as the door closed, Harry put the bread down and looked
at Fleur. A mixture of anger and apprehension ran through her. Harry seemed
angry, but so was she.
"What was that Fleur?"
"Why there was a naked girl with you? Not only that, a naked girl I know you
had something with before." Fleur felt she was close to giving in to her veela
nature.
"Because our clothes don't change with us…"
"Don't you dare joke right now mister…"
"But is true, nothing fucking happened!"
"I don't know about that… I saw the hungry looks she gave you. She was not shy
about telling everyone you shagged her before!"
"Yes, I did, but not anymore, now I am with you!"
"So why she was here? Why didn't you chase her away, she clearly wants you,
maybe you like the attention…"
Harry stood up, looking very angry, and hurt. "I will not chase anyone away; I
will not do to them what people did to me. You have no reason to act like
that!"
"WHY NOT?" The veela screamed.
"Because I may hunt with her, I may be her alpha, but she is not the one I am
in love with, you are." He signed, walked to the bed and took his coat. "I
choose you Fleur." The witch watched as he walked through the door, angry at
him for doing so and happy for hearing he was in love with her.
.oOo.
Harry walked through the snow at a fast pace. His heart screamed for him to
turn back, and say he was sorry. But he was also angry and afraid of losing his
temper and do even more damage. "Why do I have to be so stubborn? Why I can't
control my anger, I feel like an idiot." Entering the castle, he thought the
entrance hall never looked so dark. Harry leaned on one of the columns, banging
his head on the stone. "Idiot…"
"There you are…" Harry heard a familiar voice behind him. "What the hell are
you doing?" He turned to look at Hermione. His first friend, his best friend.
She had a knowing look that only years of friendship could give. "Ok… what
happened?"
For a moment, Harry debated if he should talk about this with Hermione, he was
not oblivious to his friend's feelings. At the same time, there was no one in
the world he trusted more than her. He took a long breath. "I fucked up…"
"Language Harry!" The girl said, with some real concern in her voice. Harry
then told her what happened at Hagrid's hut and the night before.
"Fleur and Katie scents were making me lose control, just as she was, so I
left, and I bet she didn't like it…" Harry sighed.
"I bet she didn't… Harry, did you and Katie…?"
"NO! Why do people assume that?!"
"Well, you are male and a teenager…"
"That is a lame reason, and you know it!"
"Ok, you're right." She raised her hands. "But I was asking more because…"
Hermione looked embarrassed. "It's the first cycle you go without having… you
know… since you came back to the school… maybe it's affecting you."
"What, I am a slave to my instincts now?" Harry noticed he was getting too
angry again. And was to him, maybe Hermione's theory had more merit than he
wanted to admit. He took a deep breath. "Sorry… I'm just… disappointed in
myself. I try to convince her that I'm not a boy just to walk away like one."
"First of all Harry, you didn't screw anything up. You two just had your first
argument, and it was bound to happen sometime. I am sure you will get over it.
Second, she was just jealous."
"Why she would be jealous?"
Hermione looked at him in disbelief. "Because you and Katie share something she
can never do?" Understanding dawned on him, making he feel even stupider.
"Also, she must felt really insecure at the time…"
"Fleur? Insecure? How is that even possible?"
Hermione rolled her eyes. "Really? She is still human Harry. Just try to
imagine, for the first time Fleur is with someone she wants, without the help
of her allure. You are not affected by it like other people, and she can't have
that reassurance anymore. Then she finds you with another girl, one which you
have a history and shares a part of your life she can't… Fleur tries to appear
super prideful and sure of herself, but she must be frightened. You two
together are something new to her too…"
"Bloody hell, I am really an idiot…" Harry banged his head on the column again.
"Language Harry, and no, you are just a bloke, a good one, it's true, but you
still have a lot to learn…"
HPHPHP
Fleur felt completely lost. This fight had been different than any other she
ever had with a lover. At first, she was so angry. Angry at Harry, at Katie and
at herself. At Harry for leaving her there, alone after saying he was in love
with her. At Katie for being able to stay with him when she couldn't. But she
was specifically angry at herself. How could she say Harry was looking for
attention, how could she have asked him to cast Katie aside? She was better
than this. Was her veela nature that selfish? Was she?
The veela ended up having a lengthy conversation with Regine. Her friend
pointed out that for the first time she couldn't rely on her allure. "That is
good and bad at the same time Fleur. You know he likes you for who you are, but
you may not know exactly how to act without it…" she was right. Fleur felt
helpless. And she felt even worse when she realized that Harry didn't come
running apologize to her. They usually did that, but not Harry.
Fleur wanted to apologize, to make amendments, and sadly she realized she
didn't know how. She had never apologized to a lover before. She didn't have
too. "Am I being too prideful or a coward?" Those were the questions running
through her head again and again. She slept with Harry's scarf that night; just
to feel closer to him.
The next day she met Hermione at the carriage. The English girl had come asking
for her. "How are you Fleur?" She asked, sitting on the bed beside the French.
"Harry told what happened."
"How is he?"
"Ashamed…"
"Why? Is not like it was the only one at fault. I pushed him into a corner."
The veela sighed, and Hermione raised her eyebrows.
"He said your scent was making it hard for him to think straight. I believe his
instinctive wolf part made him run, and he is a guy after all. But that doesn't
excuse him of course. Neither excuses you Fleur." The veela was taken by
surprise with the assertiveness in Hermione's voice, but swallowing her own
pride, she sighed.
"You are right; I shouldn't have said those things… I felt…"
"Insecure, I know… it's ironic. I imagine that is how people feel half the time
around you. I don't mean to be rude. I really understand your insecurity took
the best of you… I just wanted to say that Harry understands too, and that is
why he is so ashamed. But you are both so stubborn, and you have that in
common." Hermione giggled.
"Why are you helping me, Hermione? I know how you feel about Harry." Fleur
asked confused.
Hermione took a deep sigh. "Yeah, but you and he are also my friends, and I
love you both for that. I can't say I am not envious, of both of you, but I am
trying to be the bigger person here, don't spoil it. I feel genuinely happy for
you both. I can see how connected you are, how relaxed he makes you and you
make him. And hell knows how much both of you need it." Fleur looked at her
with compassion. This girl, no, the woman was way more mature than herself.
Fleur felt ashamed but also loved.
Fleur took Hermione on a warm hug, trying to convey all the gratitude to her on
it. "Thank you 'Ermione. You have no idea how much that means to me." She
kissed Hermione on the cheek, and the girl blushed. After Hermione left, Fleur
contemplated how she could talk to Harry. "Come on Fleur, you faced a dragon,
of course, you can face your boyfriend…" but she couldn't. When she gathered
herself was way past curfew, and she slept with Harry's scarf for another
night.
That was how the Christmas morning found Fleur. Someone jumping on her bed
suddenly awakened her. She opened her eyes just to see Gabby jumping on over
the blankets. "Come on Fleur, is Christmas, come on, come on! Let's go open the
presents!". Fleur barely had time to put on a robe before her sister pulls her
by the hand. Gabby has always been like that. No matter how old she got,
Christmas was still magical for her. They arrived at the improvised common room
at the center of the carriage, a Christmas tree and been mounted on the side,
with many gifts under it. Gabby and the two other first years that came to
England dive into it. Fleur sat on the chair beside them and asked an elf for a
coffee.
She watched her sister happily separating the gifts into piles. There was one
for Gabby and one for Fleur. The older witch distracted started opening some of
the packages. Their parents sent her a beautiful dress that she quickly decided
to use at the ball that night. The thought brought Harry back into her mind,
and she wondered if he would be there waiting for her. She moved the thought
aside and opened the next package Gabby gave her. It was from Regine, and Fleur
blushed at the minuscule semi-transparent panties and bra. "Have fun!" Was the
only thing written on the card. She quickly hid it with a smile. Hermione gave
her a book about magical music, and she felt happy with her new friend's
consideration.
"This one is a little weird…" Gabby said, handing her a small package. Fleur
took it with curiosity, and there was a card with it, she read.
What do you give a witch who has almost everything, and is so talented that can
get anything she doesn't have with a flick of her wand?
I struggled with that question for a long time. It is our (hopefully) first
Christmas together and wanted it to be special, so you can have an idea of how
good you make me feel.
So I decided to give you a thing only I could get. Myself. But calm down it's
not in a corny way. Inside there is a necklace, and it was made from the spikes
of the Bulgarian horntail that ended up on my shoulder, Charlie Weasley said
they were precious and rare. But that was not the reason I am giving it to you.
That was the day you first kissed me, and I will never forget it.
The time stopped and all the pain was gone, there was only you and me in the
world. At the moment I was already yours.
It also helped that it was embedded in my blood. You will notice runes carved
on it. I did it myself. So here is what I meant by giving myself. Because of
the runes, the enchanting and my blood, if you hold it and say my name, you
will feel me, where I am, and if I'm ok, you will always be able to find me. I
made one for myself, that way I will know when you need me.
That is my way to be always close to you, be sure you are never alone.
I know is not much… but I hope you like it
Your Harry.
Fleur took the necklace on the package. It was elegant and beautiful, with a
simple golden tin chain. The runes skillfully carved at the Ivory, and Fleur
felt her eyes watering. She took it closer to her and whispered Harry's name.
The necklace emitted a faint glow, and Fleur could feel like Harry was there.
His warm, his smell, she knew he was at Gryffindor's common room, and she could
feel he missed her. He really missed her. She quickly stood up, grabbed the
scarf and looked at Gabby. He missed her, and she missed him. Everything was
going to be okay.
.oOo.
"Come meet me at the unused classroom at the second floor, above the dungeons,
at 11:00, I have a gift for you."
The note was in an envelope, amidst Ron's gifts that morning. He looked at it,
and it was easy to identify the handwriting, she had sent him a couple of notes
before. Mostly like this one. "Who does the little snake think she is, bossing
me around like that? I had enough of it with Hermione already." He considered
merely ignoring it, but curiosity took the best of him. That and she was hot in
a dangerous way. Ronald walked the almost empty hallways, his own footsteps
echoing through the castle. Most students were in their common rooms, opening
gifts and celebrating. Ron found out he had very little to celebrate. He didn't
even have a date to the ball that night.
He found the door to the classroom closed, looked around to make sure he was
alone and knocked. "It's Weasley…" he said to the wood. The door opened
carefully, and he could see the Pansy eyes looking at him. She grabbed his
sweater and pushed him inside. The room was dark, there were no windows, some
dust chairs, and desks, with some candles. Ron could see some other person on a
chair in the middle of the room. Draco Malfoy was unconscious.
"What the fuck!" Ron shouted, looking at the blond boy in the chair.
"I promised you, didn't I, retribution. Did you bring the wand?" Almost
hypnotized by the sight, Ron took the untraceable wand from his back pocket and
handed to her. "Don't worry. See this potion?" She pointed at a flask on one of
the tables. The redhead nodded. "It can alter his memories and is also a minor
form of mental control, kind of like an imperious curse. We will make him drink
it at the end…"
"Why… why would I do it…" Ignoring him, Pansy pointed the wand at Draco and
said: "enervate." Draco gasped as he woke, spitting and looking around with a
confused gaze. His dazed eyes fixed on Pansy, and his cheeks turned red with
rage.
"Merry Christmas Draco." The girl said with venom in her voice.
"What the fuck Pansy!" He screamed, and Ron noticed he couldn't move from the
chair. "let me out now, bitch!" SMACK! Pansy's hand slapped the blonde's face.
"What the…" another loud slap.
"You will never touch me again without my consent…" Pansy hissed trough through
his teeth. Ron felt the rage in her voice, the hurt. "You will never hurt me
again Draco!"
"Let me go now! I'M ordering you! AARRGH!" Pansy touched the point of the wand
on his hand, a small line of smoke emerged from the point of contact. "You
bitch…" he panted. "I'm going to kill you, my father will hear about it, and we
are going to take everything from your family!" Pansy hit him with another
slap, so intense he almost fell off the chair. She came closer to Ron, who was
watching everything mesmerized, massaging her own hurt knuckles.
"You don't own me Draco, from now on; I will have whatever I want and whoever I
want." She pulled Ron down by his sweater and kissed him with brutal passion
and excitement. Ron didn't know what to do, but after a couple of seconds, he
returned the kiss. It was almost painful, Pansy invaded his mouth, and her
tongue brought him into submission. Malfoy screamed at his chair.
"I will kill you both. I will give your families to the Dark Lord!" Ron was not
listening anymore, and he was feeling equal amounts of excitement and disgust
at the same time. When they finally broke the kiss, Pansy had a predatory gaze
at Ron. The wizard was sweating; his heart was racing. He fought the desire to
grab her and forcefully kiss her as she did to him.
"What's the matter Draco? Didn't you say you would like to watch others having
a go at your woman when we got married? I remember it all too well!" Pansy
turned to Ron, handing him the wand. "Here Weasley, time for some retribution,
let me teach you a new trick…" Ron looked at the boy bound on the chair. Saliva
was dripping from his chin, and he could see the fear in his eyes. It was
pathetic. But Ron hesitated, the wand trembling on his hand. Pansy placed her
hand on his, holding the wand together. "I will help you…" She said in his
ears.
Ronald Weasley hesitantly looked at Draco Malfoy while Pansy moved his hand
with the wand. But then he remembered everything his family has been through
because of him, Ron remembered the nightmares his sister still had, and his
rage boiled, making the wand glow with intent.
.oOo.
Harry waited at the entrance hall, just like most of the other boys. At first,
he was afraid, not nervous, terrified, that Fleur wouldn't want to go with him
anymore, but if the necklace was working correctly, and the wizard trusted his
rune work, he knew she missed him. That was going to be an interesting
relationship, he thought, the two of them could be really stubborn at times,
well, it was something he would have to work on.
Harry tried to look the best he could for this. Taking a page from Jacques's
book, he decided on an almost wholly muggle formal attire. He got himself a
full dark grey Armani suit, and with some help of Hermione, transfigured it to
fit perfectly. His tie was of dark green, almost the same tones, and his own
eyes. His hair was nearly tamed, but he noticed it gotten even messier since he
had been bitten. He shaved and put on some polished shoes, he looked like an
actor or a politician, Harry thought, but the tuxedo-like robes some of his
friends had chosen simply don't suited him. He felt like he was not being
himself.
Like himself, Blaise had chosen a muggle suit, in a blue color, Viktor and most
of the durmstrang students had robes that reminded Harry of military uniforms.
Some even had medals in it. Harry made a mental note to ask about it on another
occasion. Neville wore the traditional formal wizard attire, which looked like
a tuxedo, with a small cloak. The boys chatted nervously about the upcoming
dancing. Neville seemed especially worried, to Blaise's immense amusement.
Harry was trying to reassure his friend for the hundredth time that night and
was already starting to feel a little impatient at him when he saw Hermione and
Katie descending the stairs. Harry went silent at the sight of the two girls.
Hermione was wearing a strapless long white dress, with a delicate pearl
pattern over the chest, and the bottom half done with several layers, adding
movement and flow every time she walked. Her hair was beautifully done in a
bun, coroner by a pearl tiara and a fell selected waves over her shoulders.
Katie wore a red dress, shorter than Hermione's, just a little above her knees,
the skirts flowing and a bow over her waist. Black pantyhose and heels, with
matching bracelets and necklace. Her much shorter hair was made to the side,
with a matching garment.
"You two look beautiful…" It was all that came out when Harry could finally
speak again. The two girls smiled at his dazed expression, both kissing him.
"You look good yourself Harry," Hermione said, moving to capture the arm Viktor
Krum offered her. The Bulgarian seeker genuinely complimented his date.
"The reporters are going to have a field day as I dance with my beautiful
date." he smiled at her.
" Fleur is a lucky girl," Katie says in his ear, with a touch of jealousy in
her voice, before moving to the side of Roger Davis. Harry tried not to blush.
Ginny got down right after, accompanied by Parvati and Lavender. The red-haired
girl wore a dark green dress that contrasted with her hair, and dark green
gloves. Harry noticed it matched perfectly with Blaise's tie. The Slytherin
smirked at her, and for a second Harry thought he looked a dark mob boss from
one of the old movies he watched on the telly over the summer. They looked good
together. Hannah Abbott came next, and Neville almost had a heart attack. Harry
was nervous, but he had to wait just a little more. The contingent of
beauxbatons girls arrived together from the carriage, heavily cloaked against
the winds. The wizard looked anxious as the students gathered at the hall, led
by madam Maxine.
Harry's heart skipped a beat, or so he felt as his breath stopped. Fleur looked
like a mirage, floating in the hallway in his direction. Her turquoise dress
moved like waves around her legs, the one strap over her shoulder richly
adorned by a mosaic of fleurs de Liz, who turned into an asymmetric pattern
running all to the bottom of the skirts. The fabric should have to be magical,
Harry thought, by the way, it reflected the lights around her, and creating the
illusion that Fleur herself was glowing. Her hair was delicately made in a
series of braids held together by an emerald green hairpiece, matching the
color of her necklace as much as Harry's own eyes. In her left wrist, she had
the dragon jowl Harry gave her. Harry wanted to say how beautiful she looks,
but the sound that came from his mouth sounded more like "oh… ash… gwa… damn…"
Fleur giggled at him.
"I'm sorry…" Harry finally managed to say. "You look… gorgeous… I broke for a
second…."
"Thank you 'arry… you look good too." She said with a hungry gaze.
"Fleur, I am sorry, about…" Harry's words were interrupted by her lips on his.
She kissed him with passion and need. Their tongues meet, and Harry felt like
everything was right in the world again. She touched her forehead with his and
said.
"I am sorry too… this is new for me as well, but right now I want to make it
work." They were interrupted by Minerva Macgonaval . The old witch looked at
them with a reproving gaze before ordering,
"Champions, here. You are going to enter .yourselves to the table, then you and
your pair will open the ball with the first dance." Minerva lined them for
entrance. Harry and Fleur would be first, followed by Cho and Cedric, them
Viktor and Hermione. Harry took a deep breath and his gaze meet with Fleur's.
She seemed happy, and all anxiety left Harry's body.
.oOo.
Fleur felt a wave of happiness ran through her, as she flew with Harry through
the dance floor. Just like in their duels, she felt close to him, her body
responding to his leading hands and feet. It felt so liberating, following the
rhythm of the first music; she could feel his almost inhuman warm. He lead her
with security and tenderness, they laughed and kissed, and were so comfortable
that it bleed to the other couples around them. Happiness can genuinely be
contagious. They danced two songs before switching partners, and Harry danced
with Hermione and Fleur with Krum. The Bulgarian was also a great dancer; maybe
it was a seeker thing.
They move to the table after the third song, Harry and Blaise proceeded to get
some drinks, Fleur once more was astonished by the beauty of the great hall.
Giant ice statues ornated its corners and a big decorated tree stranded were
the professor's table usually stayed. Fleur talked animated with Hermione and
Katie, and even Ginny was friendlier to her. Harry even asked Zabini to dance
with him, to give Krum cover to dance with Roger Davies, under the astonished
eyes of the other wizards and witches, even the weird sisters applauded with
approval, while some purebloods looked in disgust. Harry just didn't seem to
care, the smile on Viktor's face made it worth.
Fleur looked at Harry happily talking with Viktor and Zabini. Their eyes meet,
both smiled at each other, and a feral, predatory gaze appeared on his face for
a second. "My wolf…" Fleur thought, with a touch of pride. One of the Indian
twins, Fleur could not say which one, approached Harry for a dance. He looked
at her, almost like asking for permission, and she nodded.
"Seems like Harry will be making the rounds tonight…" Katie commented.
"Yes… but in the end, he will come back to me." Fleur answered with certainty.
She turned to Katie them. "I am sorry Katie, for before. My insecurities took
the best of me. I know you and 'arry share something special and unique."
"As you and him also do. Don't worry and he really likes you. And I kinda trust
you, but if you break his heart..." The chaser started laughing.
"Thank you…" The veela simply answered.
Harry now was dancing with the other twin. Roger Davies invited Fleur for a
dance, and she gladly accepted, after him, many others seemed to work the
courage to ask her, she politely accepted while Harry danced with Professor
Minerva, making Fleur laugh.
"I need a drink…" he said when the Weird Sisters started playing a faster tune.
Fleur passed him her glass and looked appraising at her boyfriend. "What?" He
asked.
"Nothing… it seems like I have one of the most coveted pairs of the ball non?"
"So do I…"
The night continued almost like a dream. For a moment Harry looked worried at
his red-haired friend, who was alone, with a strange dazed expression on his
face, but decided to let it go for now. Fleur almost didn't see the time
passing. The band played a soft, slow tune. Harry brought her body close, and
fleur harped her arms around him, resting her head on his shoulder, kissing his
neck where she could feel his pulse. Quick soft kisses turned into light bites,
and he pressed their bodies even more. "Thank you for this night Fleur, for
letting me be myself around you."
"The night is not over my loup-garou." She whispered back to him, making him
shiver. "Take me back to the carriage 'arry…"
They discreetly walked out of the hall.
.oOo.
Harry and Fleur barely made into her room. As soon as they entered the seemed
empty carriage, after a quick run in through the cold castle grounds, Fleur
attacked Harry's mouth with her's. Their tongue fought for dominance as she
pressed him against the wall. The veela let her allure run free and in full
force all directed to the young wizard in front of her. Harry could feel a warm
feeling washing him. Her scent was so overwhelming that he barely could
restrain himself from tearing down her dress. Harry's hands rubbed her back up
and down until he grabbed her bun with hungry hands. She moaned into his lips.
His tie was gone before they reach the room and his jacket was next.
Fleur opened the door and shoved Harry inside, quickly casting silencing and
looking spells on it. Harry looked around the room it was relatively big,
especially because there was only one big bed. "You got your own room?"
"Perks of being the champion…" Fleur said a little flushed, before attacking
his neck again. She kissed and sucked it, and it was Harry's turn to moan. Her
quick movements undid the buttons on his shirt with easy so that she could claw
her hands on his bare chest. The wizard moved a hand to the back of her neck
and captured her lips once again. Fleur bit his lower lip and opened his belt,
before throwing Harry on the bed. With a quick movement, the werewolf was down
only to his boxers, he noticed Fleur's gaze hungrily hovering over him, and
strangely didn't feel ashamed of his marks and scars. She kissed him once more
and stood up removing the garment from her hair, and her delicate braids come
undone almost magically, freeing her long silver hair. Looking directly into
his eyes, she took the strap of her dress and slid it, slowly, through her arm.
Harry swallowed in anticipation, and she made her best "evil Fleur" face,
delighted with the effect she had on him.
When the dress was finally free from her arm, the heels slowly let it down, and
her allure was so strong Harry could almost taste it. The smell of her arousal
was making his member twitch inside the boxers. Harry bit his lips when the
descending dress revealed her perfect breasts, round and firm, with little pink
hardened nipples. Harry thought she looked like a goddess, with her hair
shining like a halo around her perfect heart shaped head. One hell of a hot
goddess. Harry stood up just to be pushed back to the bad. "Non, non… I'm not
done…" Fleur said with a sultry voice that made Harry shiver down to his
trapped cock.
She turned her perfect back to him, and proceeds to remove her dress, letting
it slowly roll over her arse. The black thong she was wearing deliciously
disappearing into the crack of her bum. The movement of her hips was erotic and
almost hypnotic. The wolf wanted nothing more than pounce on her, but at the
same time, Harry was enjoying every second of it. Fleur kicked the dress away
and turned to look at Harry, desire burning in her eyes. Harry feasted on the
sight in front of him. Her semi-transparent thong was revealing an entirely
shaved, perfect mound. Harry sat up, his head perfectly aligned with her hips.
The smell of her cunt driving Harry crazy with desire. Without thinking he
buried his face in her hips, kissing her over the fabric, Fleur moaned,
delighted of the effect he had on her. His hands instinctively searched for the
waistband of her panties, as he drowned on her scent.
Harry needed to taste it, to savor her.
The wizard pulled her thong down, removing the thin barrier between them, and
tasted the dripping juices, running his tongue through her inner lips, becoming
instantly in love with her bittersweet taste. Harry licked and kissed, as Fleur
grabbed his hair and almost grinded on his face. The wolf moved his mouth over
her clit, licking and applying just a little pressure with his lips; his hands
moved up her legs, to the inner thighs unit reach her center. Without stopping
his ministration at her clitoris, Harry slowly covered finger with her own
flowing liquids, and insert it inside her. Fleur moaned even louder, pushing
hair forcefully. Harry moved the finger out and inside again, massaging her
entrance and her inner walls, Fleur started babbling in French, grinding in a
faster rhythm. The wizard brought a second finger inside her, and her girl
screamed " OUI, OUI!" After a couple of minutes, Harry felt her muscles
embracing his fingers, and the juices dripping on his chin as Fleur came on his
mouth with a delightful scream.
Harry gently and slowly removed his fingers from inside her, still kissing
around her oversensitive clit. He looked at Fleur, the girl smiling in bliss,
panting heavily. The veela captured his lips once more and laid him on the bed,
and Harry loved the smell of her sweat mixed with her juices and the delightful
sounds she made. He could see the magic surrounding them with bright colors he
didn't even know existed. She kissed his chin, then his neck, her liquids
dripping over his belly button. Fleur moved to kiss his chest, even his scars.
His dick twitched with every contact her soft lips made with his skin. The
witch proceed to remove his boxers, freeing his aching member. "uh la la,
'ello…" She whispered softly, grabbing Harry's cock and stroking it gently.
Harry groaned her hands were soft; he fought his will to rock himself into
them. Fleur got up on top of him and aligned his member with her entrance,
waiting for him to open his eyes. As soon as the werewolf looked at her, she
buried herself on him, engulfing the wizard like a warm, perfect glove. Both
teens moaned loud as she kept lowering herself until their hips touched. Harry
thought of how beautiful she looked, how right that felt. Their scents mixed
with her allure was like swimming in pure bliss. She lift herself again, until
only the tip of his cock remained inside her, just to lower herself back,
moaning. One of Harry's hands moved to her right perfect breasts, palming it,
and playing with her nipple, as the other had gone to her waist, helping her
move. Every time she pulled herself up, it felt like her pussy muscles tried to
grab around his dick, and every time she moved down, it welcomed him in a soft
embrace. Harry was amazed how she always moved up to the right spot where he
felt like entering her for the first time and back, keeping the movement. It
was unbelievably good. He felt their emotions, their passion and desire running
through the magic between them. He didn't know if it was her allure or his
magic, and he didn't care, it was just incredible. He tried to hold himself
back, make it last, but Fleur laid on him and whispered. " Don't hold back
'Arry… come for me…"
That was enough to break him. Harry let it all out, roaring while he unloaded
jet after jet inside Fleur, her own walls tensing like she wanted to hold
everything inside her. His orgasm persisted as she moaned and slowed down,
rocking her hips in a nice, slow rhythm feeling the warmth of Harry inside her.
"Yes… mon chéri… just like that… that was… Mon Dieu…"
Harry kissed her, her scent still driving his instincts, but in a much calm
way. He held tight, trying to savor every piece of her skin, of her scent and
taste. Fleur eyes widened when she felt him getting hard inside her again.
Still holding her close, Harry rolled then, laying the witch on her back, and
giving her a deep, caring kiss.
The second time, they made love in a more calm and carrying rhythm, showing all
their affection for each other, until they came together, and fell asleep in
each other's arms.
***** Chapter 15 *****
                                  Chapter 15
Harry woke up overwhelmed by the intoxicating scent of lilies, feeling just a
bit disoriented. It took him a couple of seconds to remind himself of where he
was, and a big smile formed on his face when he remembered with whom. Harry
felt calm, and happy like he did very few times in his life. He groped for his
glasses that slid around on the nightstand which slid to his hands by
themselves, without him noticing. As the world came back to focus, the young
wizard smiled at the mess around him, their clothes scattered all through the
room. "I could get used to that…"
Harry then looked at the beautiful witch beside him. Fleur was laid on her
stomach, hair flowing around on the pillow, eyes closed, breathing calmly. For
a second, Harry had the impression that the veela's white skin and silver hair
were glowing with a thin light. The werewolf feasted on the sight of her almost
perfect skin, he shivered at her relaxed back muscles and the perfect round
mound of her bum. The scents of their lovemaking from the night before hit him
back, and he felt magic running through then. "Is this the pack bond? It feels
so good, so calm and right. Maybe, I am just in love after all… but what
about…" Harry almost instinctively softly rubbed the knuckles of his fingers on
Fleur's back while those thoughts ran through his mind. The girl's skin
shivered under his touch, and she let out a soft moan, bringing the werewolf
back to the present. When Harry saw her face, all his focus turned to her. The
sounds she made, her scent, the softness of her skin. A light smile appeared on
Fleur's face, as Harry's hands continued running up and down her back, reaching
a little more down her each time. Harry smelled her arousal starting to form,
and his own member stiffened. The smile on her lips grew wider, and the wizard
realized she was not sleeping anymore. Didn't she realize by now that he could
tell? Harry's hand finally reached her round, flawless bun, and Fleur moaned a
little louder, making Harry's cock twitch. "How does everything about this girl
make me submit with no challenge?"
Harry softly caressed her bum, memorizing its form, and texture, feeling the
warm under his hand. Every time, a small moan left her mouth, the wolf
shivered, and his dick trembled. Without a word, Fleur lifted her hips,
granting him access to more of her. Harry could clearly understand what she
wanted and was happy to oblige. He lightly ran his fingers over her labia,
feeling it already wet. Harry teased her, running his fingers all through her
slit. Feeling bold, the wizard pressed his fingers, sliding in her inner lips,
feeling how wet she was. Fleur moaned loud as his fingers encircled her
clitoris, slippery with her own fluids. Fleur started moving her hips, rocking
his fingers up and down her pussy. A predatory smile appeared on his face and
using her own movements, Harry sunk two fingers inside her. He as marveled,
Fleur's moving ass was perfect, her soft pussy lips were beautiful. Her scent
was addictive. Fleur smiled and finally opened her eyes. "Good… morning… 'Arry…
aaah"
"Good morning Fleur…" he whispered in her ear, his fingers going in and out,
producing delightful wet noises. Fleur moaned again, and Harry positioned
himself, going on top of her. The veela boldly took her ass cheeks with both
hands and spread them, granting Harry with the most erotic view of his life. He
had to control himself not come with the sight of her perfect pink rosebud and
dripping pussy in front of him.
"Fuck me 'Arry…" She asked in a husky voice.
The wolf grunted, and he let himself inside her again, diving in their passion
and making her scream again.
                                     .oOo.
The flames in the fireplace of Greengrass Manor roared with a green hue, and
Daphne watched Tracey Davies enter the room. The black-haired girl hugged her
friend, a little more forcefully than normal, letting Tracey know something was
off. Before the blond witch could ask anything, however, the flames roared
again, and Susan Bones stepped out of the fireplace. Daphne gave her a more
conservative hug. The two girls had grown a little apart in the last two years,
and the Slytherin needed to know if the reason was really just house rivalries.
"Thank you for coming." Daphne said to her two friends, leading them to the
sitting room. The Greengrass household was sober and tastefully decorated but
without much opulence, what was considered an oddity to pureblood families.
Arthus was always more concerned with comfort than appearances. The three girls
sat down, and Lizzy popped with tea.
"It's good having you here again Susie…" Daphne greeted with a sincere smile.
She missed her friend, even after they fought.
"Yes, it is… I missed you…" the red-haired said with a shy smile. "I really
did…"
Both girls sustained an uncomfortable silence for a couple minutes, making
Tracey visibly impatient.
"Your note got me, worried girl!" Tracey said, at last, her voice a little
louder than normal. Daphne sighed and nodded, better to get done with it.
"Did you guys remember the express on the first year?"
"Of course!" Susan said with a giggle. "You kept talking about how your family
was close to the Potters and how you would be friends with the 'boy who
lived'."
"Yeap" Tracey continued. "I even saw you entering the train with him. Damn, he
looked like a little stray at the time, didn't he?" Daphne looked at them,
trying to remain calm; none of this came back to her.
"Yes, he seemed totally lost… "Susan's eyes widened "But that was not the
weirdest thing, now that you said!" The other girls looked at her. "You entered
with him on the train, but never came back after him later, we found you seated
alone in one of the compartments, looking a little sad… I thought he had been
mean with you, that's the reason I didn't like him on first year… and later..."
Susan looked at the ground, ashamed.
"True that! It was so weird! It seemed like you didn't even remember us right
the way." Tracey finished. "During the first and second years you avoided
anything related to him like the plague, we thought it was because he had been
a git that day, and he was so weird. Sneaking around, all those weird stories
around him, and the way he behaved, especially with us Slytherins"
Daphne kept looking at them, with a steady face. "And then?"
"I remember something changed on third year." Susan blushed. "With the whole
heir of Slytherin thing"
Daphne looked her in the eyes. Those were painful memories for both girls, and
she knew it, but she needed to be sure.
"You said it was impossible, that it was just a rumor." Susan said. "But I
didn't believe you; I thought you were saying this because you fancied him. And
I was angry at you for liking someone that treated you badly." Susan sighed. "I
treated you both, and Harry so badly that year. I was so afraid… and he
wholeheartedly forgave me this year. I hope you can do the same." Her voice
faltered, and she looked at the black-haired witch with pleading eyes.
"Listen." Daphne said with a serious tone and a cold look that made the other
two girls stiff in their seats. "What I am about to say to you cannot leave
this room." Tracey and Susan froze. "Right before the violence of the war
escalated, some very powerful and influential families were starting to create
a political coalition. It started as a way to stop the other families, allied
to the dark Lord to get their bills passed, supporting his efforts. But they
found out this coalition had way more power than that. They started pushing the
wizengamot and the ministry towards some real changes. Did you know that, some
time ago, any muggleborns or people with other magical blood type used to be
registered and constantly surveyed? It was not against the law to pay them
less, or for them to receive bigger sentences from the DMLE. It was this
coalition that started changing it. Longbottom's, Potters, Bones votes, with
the money of the Greengrass's and some influential foreign families. The so-
called light and grey families were ever so inclined to follow the ancient and
noble houses' votes, even against the Chief Warlock and the Ministry." Susan
nodded, as she had already heard something about it from her aunt.
"That tactic proved so effective that the dark Lord had no choice but to
escalate the violence. When he realized he was not going to win politically, he
resorted to strength and terror. The coalition allied itself with the Ministry
and the Chief Warlock in order to fight. My parents took me to France, and
worked on financial and political aid. I believe that is the only reason they
were spared…" Daphne looked at Susan, who had watery eyes. "But something else
happened around this time; something that made both the dark Lord and the Chief
Warlock obsessed with the Potters and the Longbottoms. The rest, you know…"
The two girls were in awe. "Why are you telling us this?"
"As I said, they were obsessed with Harry, and for some reason, someone didn't
want my family to get closer to him." Daphne stated.
"What makes you say that?" Tracey asked.
"Because someone messed with the memories of my first encounters with Harry, I
don't remember anything from the train, and I was always predisposed to think
everything he did was weird, like a compulsion." Daphne gritted her teeth, and
Susan was about to cry now.
"But... this coalition doesn't exist anymore, and you and Harry were just kids,
why would they do that?" Susan asked.
"Because, for some reason, they are still obsessed with Harry, with controlling
his life, and mine, and yours, and Longbottom's, I don't know that is what I'm
going to discover." Daphne said in a voice that sounded almost like a hiss.
"Didn't it backfire on them? You and Harry are friends now. And he is friends
with Neville." Tracey said.
"I guess there were some things they didn't take into account: Hermione
Granger, the Bells, Fleur Delacour, and the most important, Harry's own
willpower." Daphne smiled.
"Wait, wait, now, who are they?"
"The ministry and the Chief Warlock…"
"You mean…" Susan trailed off.
"Yes, the headmaster."
                                     .oOo.
Fleur watched hungrily as her boyfriend buttoned his shirt. Harry had a bright
smile and an even messier hair than usual. His wolf eyes looked at her and gave
him a roguish look she found delicious. He was by no means the prettiest man
she ever saw, but there was something about him she found irresistible. The
veela sensed something had changed last night. Something in her had changed.
Fleur finished putting or her jacket. Harry snorted.
"It will be really fun when I get into the common room using the same clothes
as yesterday." He sighed.
"I wish I was there to see you embarrassed." Fleur said, hugging her wolf from
behind. She noticed he was a little bit taller than the first time she hugged
him, four months ago, but not much. She kissed his neck and bit his earlobe.
Her allure flowing around them, it felt wonderful to let it out, and how he
reacted to it. She finally understood when her mother said "your father makes
my veela sing…" In her mind, Fleur started making plans of abducting Harry and
moving him far away from conspiracies, politics and dark lords. But she knew
she couldn't. That was not him. "I'm just in love…" she tough. Harry turned his
head and kissed her back, and Fleur felt the sparkles again.
"You see…" Harry said on her lips. "You have your own room, and I have this
invisible cloak…"
"If you are not here tonight, I'm putting a leash on you myself mister." They
heard a soft knock on the door. Fleur sighed, and Harry quickly hid in the
bathroom with an amused face. She undid the locking charms and said "enter."
The door slowed opened and a very shy Gabrielle peeked inside.
"Are you two decent?" the young veela asked in French and looked disappointed
at Fleur's affirmative nod. "You can come out 'Arry."
"How did you know he's here?" Fleur asked as a confused Harry came out of the
bathroom. Gabby blushed at him and giggled. "You may have showered, but your
room is a mess, just like mama and papa when they have fun." Harry was making
his best tomato impression as the French girl spoke and an evil smiling Fleur
translated. "Also, Bertrand brought Harry this." Gabby showed them a letter,
addressed to Harry. He took the parchment with an excitement. Fleur looked at
him curiously.
"What is this?" She asked.
"Bertrand is an official ministry untraceable owl, right? I used him to send
Sirius and Remus a letter, asking about the order."
"Did they know something?"
"Yes. It says here they know what it is! It seems like Remus; Sirius and my
parents were even part of it for a while. It started as a group formed by
Dumbledore dedicated to fight dark wizards. But when they got in, especially
after I born, mom got worried, because they behaved more like a cult centered
on the headmaster as the prophet of light than an army. The members of the
group obeyed any order he gave. They decided to call it off when Dumbledore
became obsessed with mom and me. Snape was in the order, just like the
Weasleys. It probably exists to this day."
"Why does your headmaster wants you so badly?" Fleur asked, her annoyance
barely hid from her voice.
"I have no idea; both Dumbledore and Voldemort can't seem to leave me alone. I
believed the old man was trying to train me for some battle, but now I am not
so sure. I will tell this to Hermione and Katie, and we can talk about it when
Daphne is back." Harry trailed of, tracing plans for the next days.
Fleur felt a subtle shiver with Daphne's mention, her eyes narrowed for a
second, and Harry seemed to get it. "Are you ok?" He asked.
"Yes, of course, just thinking." Fleur answered.
"Well, I got to go. I need clean clothes and to think." Harry kissed her, and
she felt the sparkles again, closing her eyes and letting it linger. "See you
later?" he asked when their mouths separated.
"Oui, I insist." she answered. Harry gave Gabby a kiss on the cheek, making the
girl blush furiously, and quickly strode out of the room, making sure he was
not seen. Gabby left a little after, leaving Fleur with her thoughts. She tried
to figure out her golden egg yet again, but her mind was not on to it.
"Why do I feel threatened by Daphne and not by Hermione?" She asked herself.
"Hermione has been Harry's friend since the first year, she is incredibly
intelligent and beautiful… but Daphne is also all these things. And she is
cunning; she can be devious when needed. Both are in love with Harry, I can see
it… I think... Daphne reminds me too much of myself…" someone knocked on the
door again, making fleur jump. The door opened, and Regine stormed the room.
Fleur braced herself for the barrage of teasing but noticed something was off.
Regine had been crying.
"What happened?" Fleur quickly got up and wrapped her arms around Regine.
"I screwed it all up Fleur." Regine sobbed at her shoulders.
"What do you mean?"
"I had started seeing the twins and Alicia without Angelina…" Fleur widened her
eyes at her friend's confession. "Then, when I realized I was seeing the twins
all by myself. It was so good Fleur, it felt so nice. I knew it was wrong and
didn't care. Two days ago, I let it slip to Fred and George I liked them. And
they like me back… we had sex just the three of us again…"
"Oh Regine, that is bad, you need to speak with Angelina, she is your cousin
and your friend. Or maybe is better if you don't get with then them anymore,
and let it pass, maybe is just a fling…. I am so sorry…" Fleur was lost on what
to say.
"I can't do that anymore…" Regine sighed.
"Why?"
"I just discovered Fred broke up with Angelina, right after the ball, she
slapped him and all… what if he told her… should I tell her…" the witch broke
down in tears. "I broke my cousin's heart…" Fleur held her friend, trying to
reassure everything was going to work out, at least she hoped, both for Regine
and herself.
                                     .oOo.
"It's happening again!" Dolores Umbridge's voice hurt the headmaster's ears.
"Right in front of you and you are allowing it! This time, it's even worse; the
boy has the Black family vote!" The pink dressed woman seemed on the brink of a
breakdown. Her eyes were wide; her mouth was trembling, making her look even
more like a toad. "Not only has he befriended that Greengrass girl, he is
having an affair with a half breed whore! What's next, Longbottom and a
muggleborn?"
Albus sighed. "Longbottom is under control; his grandmother is a loyal follower
of the light. And may I remind you, Dolores, those are just kids. They are not
planning on overtaking the government. Ms. Delacour will leave the country in a
few months ending her temporary romance with Mister Potter, and the slow pace
of Sirius Black process show that the old alliance is not as strong anymore."
"Then why do you need the boy?" The short woman all but screamed.
"I know it is hard for you to grasp how the minds of the simpler people work
Dolores, but I have been dealing with them for more than seventy years. Harry
is a symbol, someone they can relate too. People will follow whatever he says."
His voice sounded tired. He cursed the day he had associated himself with this
slow witch. She was an example of everything he wanted to wipe out from the
magical world.
"And what makes you so sure he will support us and not Greengrass or Bones?"
"That is for me to know. Anyways, I didn't call you here for this; it is not of
your concern." The headmaster slid her a piece of parchment. "Here it is… it
arrived today. You can put it into effect at the beginning of next term. It
will only affect our students, of course." The woman's eyes shone as she took
the parchment, and a big grin showed across her face.
"I will make the preparations right away." She groaned before she left. Hateful
woman, the headmaster thought, but she had a point. Harry was slipping from his
grasp. He was being able to keep his lycanthropy under control, and even
befriended the Bell girl. And Fleur Delacour was a real problem. He would send
Severus to deal with Greengrass again. The death eater impostor was also making
his moves. Albus suspected he would need Harry for a year or two more. Then it
would be done, for his great sadness, he just needed to bring the boy back. The
bill would scare him, then Albus would offer him not only protection, but also
helping his friends. A mixture of fear and dependence had to do it. The boy was
more powerful than anticipated, but that was also good. Once the soul fragment
was destroyed, Albus would have the clean path to install his greater good and
get rid of Dolores and Fudge. His new order would prevail.
                                     .oOo.
A different Daphne Greengrass entered the Hogwarts Express with Tracey Davis
and Susan Bones. As much as she tried, her mother could not fix her memories,
and both Daphne and her parents were certain whoever this would try again.
Daphne was determined to undermine their plans and get the upper hand, she knew
Harry had to be controlled when he found out, but the witch was sure she could
do it. Daphne wanted only two things:
Vengeance… and Harry Potter.
And she was determined to get them both.
                                    HPHPHP
It has been a weird week for Katie after the ball. Fleur had somewhat
apologized to her the day after the dance, in a very "Fleur" kind of way,
saying she was sorry, but trying to assert her dominance over Harry. Not that
she needed at the time, she smelled like Harry all over her, in a very familiar
way. Katie let it go, the veela had to deal with her own insecurities, but it
felt nice having Harry sticking up for her. Fleur told Katie how her alpha
refused to put her aside, and Katie felt reassured on her choice. The next
days, Harry expended a lot of time talking with the she-wolf, about their night
hunting together. Katie found it really cute how thankful he was to her, even
that she didn't understand why. Fleur's jealousy really seemed to subsidize a
little, although she still gave her some nasty looks. The fact that Harry kept
sneaking into the carriage every night seemed to help, but Katie couldn't also
help but feel a little jealous of that.
Harry had devised that together with the Patronus charm, he wanted to develop a
physical training just for the two of them, to get full use of some of their
capabilities. Harry seemed determined to survive, driven to past not only
Voldemort, but the other subtler threats too, and Katie could feel the impact
that this was having on her and the others, everyone seemed renewed, maybe
hopeful for the New Year.
Not all was going well though. Angelina was heartbroken with her break up.
Katie debated with herself if she should tell about Regine's smell on both
twins and Alicia. But, as her friend only seemed to confide in her and
sometimes Harry, Katie decided to confront that at a later time. In a quickie
exchange she confirmed that Harry knew it too and agreed with her. For now,
Harry had welcomed their older friend with them, keeping her distance with the
twins. Regine at least had the decency of keeping her distance in public. Katie
was thankful for that, she really didn't need another pressure point between
herself and her alpha's girlfriend, and she wants this to work. But things were
not so easy.
It started with the welcoming feast. Katie was walking with a still little
shaken Angelina, Harry and Hermione to the feast. Most of the students had
stayed in the castle this time, so very few people were arriving today, but
Daphne Greengrass was between them. Katie heard the Slytherin girl she learned
to call a friend calling for Harry and turned to see the black-haired girl
accompanied by Tracey Davies and Susan Bones.
Tracey gave them a smile "Come on, after the dinner I want to hear everything
about the ball! Did Zabini and Weasley finally make out?"
Katie barely registered the chatting blond; all her attention was on Daphne
now. The witch approached Harry with a smile and hugged him, an almost needing
hug, and whispered in Harry's ear. "I've missed you…" Katie was sure Harry
noticed, Daphne's scent had changed, it was way more powerful, dominant even,
it was like Fleur's. Katie saw the magic flowing between them and gulped.
Specifically, because she could smell the French witch approaching behind then.
The veela slowly, deliberately embraced Harry from behind and passionately
kissed him, before giving Daphne a smile.
"Welcome back Daphne, I hope you had a great Yule holiday…" Fleur said in a
neutral tone, and Katie watched the first power struggle in her pack start.
"Thank you, Fleur; I can say it was enlightening. I hope yours was great as
well." Daphne answered in an adamant tone, even Hermione and Angelina could
feel the tension growing between the two girls.
"I can assure you, it was… delicious…" Fleur responded, at this point, Harry
looked about to explode, Katie's thought it was kind of funny.
"Great, I can't wait for the first meeting of this term." Daphne said in a
jovial tone. "We can talk more after the dinner." The Slytherin girl walked to
her tablet. Katie looked at Fleur who had narrow eyes looking at the other
girl's back. Who knew veela's were so possessive, but again, Katie knew very
little about them.
The feast ran as usual, Harry pointed Hagrid's absence on the professor's
table, but Katie didn't pay much attention, the looks exchanged between Fleur
and Daphne was way more fun. The headmaster made some announcements concerning
the tournament, and the next task, and then passed the word to a ministry
official, the pink toad lady as they use to call her.
"Good evening students, as some of you may know, I am the ministry sub-
Secretary and Inquisitor Dolores Umbridge. I have an important announcement to
make." The hall became silent, and the little woman seemed to rejoice in her
power. "Due to the new dark creatures act, approved on the last wizengamot
session on the 20th December, an act created with the solely intuit of
protecting the students, any staff member or student know to being associated,
or to be blood related with a dark creature will now be monitored." Sounds of
surprise and disapproval run through the hall, even at the professor's table
the expressions were of disbelief and anger. Katie could not believe, not now.
She was breathing fast, almost panicking. Harry held her hand and squeezed,
trying to calm her down. Dolores continued. ", professor Hagrid is now removed
from his teaching position…" Some people on the Slytherin table cheered loud,
Harry looked furious, Madam Maxine started crying. Fleur and Hermione looked at
the pink dressed toad with disgust. "Also, the following students; Luna
Lovegood, Millicent Bulstrode, and Katie Bell…" a gadget with the drawing of
moon appeared on Katie's uniform, and the girl let out a silent scream, people
around her on the table looking in disbelief. "Are now to be monitored at all
times and cannot participate in extracurricular activities such as sportive
competitions, for the safety of themselves and the other students. This list
can grow in the future as all the student's files are being reviewed and
updated; of course this is not applicable to the foreign students." She
finished looking directly at Fleur with narrow disgusted eyes. "Thank you."
The staff table exploded in protest.
People in the table looked at Katie, she tried to remove the pin, but found out
she couldn't. She was about to cry, or letting her rage explode. Ron gave her a
fearful look; she needed to get out before exploding. She looked at Harry, who
was still holding her hand, and ran.
                                     .oOo.
Harry was fuming; his rage was boiling at every word from the short pink woman.
How was that even allowed? The only reason he didn't let his rage explode right
there was the trembling Katie's hand on his. When the badge magically appeared,
he held his own ground for her, his magic reassuring the girl. He wanted to
scream and hurt the toad woman. But the human in his head warned it would only
make things worse. When Katie left, he knew it was his duty to go after her. He
gave an obstinate look at Hermione and Fleur and got up. He didn't care if
everyone in the hall was looking; Katie was his hunter, his pack.
He ran through the hallways, following her scent to the outside, it was
freezing, but he didn't care, his body was burning, all his senses were locked
into finding her. He could see the colors guiding his steps. His rage roaring
inside, He found her near the carriage, on her knees. Katie screamed a roar of
fear and rage. He knew she was marked forever. Just like Remus. Harry
approached his friend, his lover, and embraced her, letting her sob into his
shoulders. Katie's teeth were sharp, and her ears almost pointed. The young
Wizard held her for a long time, before finally gathering the courage to say.
"I am here for you Katie; I will not let anyone hurt you. We will find a way to
change that… I will talk with the headmaster, it's not fair that you have to go
through this and I don't."
Katie looked into his eyes. "Thank you, Harry, but you can't do that, not yet…
there are other people who need you too."
"The defense club?"
"Yes… Damn, I just realized I can't be part of it anymore, if I'm being
monitored, they will find out!"
Harry thought for a second. "We will find a way. We will train you and we will
make them pay. You are my pack Katie, you choose me, and I will do everything
to honor it."
"Thank you, Harry..." She hugged him strongly. "Maybe when all this Dark Lord
bullshit is done, we can make the ministry pay. Dark creatures act, how
idiotic." Katie smirked, and Harry felt more at ease. He ran his hands over her
face, wiping out the tears out. She smelled so good, so close to him, he wanted
to protect her so badly it hurt.
"We will Katie, and I will make it clear to everyone with whom you are. You are
my hunter!" She blushed, and he was sure he blushed as well. "Let's go back to
the castle; I will talk with the headmaster… before I do something with you I
am fighting not to…"
"I wouldn't mind…."
"Me neither, but is not right…"
He took her hand and walked slowly back to the castle, letting Katie feel the
reassurance through his magic and presence, but feeling like the perfect
hypocritical. He finally left Katie with Hermione and Angelina and stormed out
of the common room. His rage building, But he had an idea. Two could play this
game. He was surprised to find both Daphne and Fleur at the bottom of the
stairs.
"How is Katie?" Fleur asked real concern in her voice.
"She's really angry, she just lost Quidditch, and is everyone is about to
know…" he reached the bottom and walked past the girls.
"Where are you going, Harry?" Daphne asked, holding his hand.
"To talk with the headmaster, try to see if he has anything about it." He
answered with a hard voice.
"Harry, that's exactly what he wants!" the Slytherin said between her teeth.
"Don't you get all Gryffindor on me now!"
Harry smiled at her. "I know Daphne. You must learn to trust me; I know what
I'm doing." She looked at him with concern but nodded and let go of his hand.
"I don't think I will be able to see you tonight Fleur… sorry."
"I understand Harry, do it for Katie" The veela sighed.
                                     .oOo.
Harry walked through the headmaster's office door, just like Albus Dumbledore
knew he would. The old wizard took a good look at the boy; he seemed scared and
angry, a little pale even, just like he sadly anticipated. He clearly had come
for help, which the old wizard was more than glad to provide. Perfect. But his
eyes looked somewhat disturbing, even to the old headmaster.
"Sir…" the boy quickly started in a pleading tone that delighted the old man.
"What is the meaning of this? Why are you letting the ministry do this?"
"Harry my boy; I am as surprised as you about this. I fought fiercely against
this piece of legislation, but it seems the light families are too scared about
the influence of dark creatures, like werewolves, on their children. Remember,
most of them sided with Voldemort on the last war."
"But… why was I not called out? Why does Katie have to go through this and I
not?" Now Harry was really angry. "I will go and out myself then, to show them
what they are doing!
"You can't Harry…" The headmaster sounded tired.
"Give me a good reason not to!"
"It's very noble from your part, Harry, to worry about your friend, and that is
exactly the reason why I choose not to register your condition at the
department of creature control." To Dumbledore's delight, Harry looked
confused, for a second the headmaster felt tempted to try and read the boy's
mind, but after what happened with Snape, he knew it could backfire. "Harry, I
will not lie to you, as much as I disagree with this piece of legislation and
how it affects Hogwarts students, werewolves are indeed dark creatures. You
must know. You felt the rage; you assaulted young Malloy with violence not
topical of yourself. More than once I considered removing you from the castle
Harry." The boy looked surprised. "But you had being taking your potions and
controlling yourself."
"I understand sir, but that should be even more reason for me to show that not
every one of us is dangerous"
"Yes Harry, but we both know Voldemort is not done, and we both know the
ministry doesn't believe that. Tell me, how would you continue your training
with professor Snape if you were to be monitored? Or if a death eater
infiltrated on the ministry gets a hold on your every step and use it against
you? No Harry. I will fight against this the right way, on the wizengamot, be
sure of it. Until there, be sure to survive the tournament. Do you understand?"
It was time to try and rebuild some trust between them.
"I think so…"
"Harry, you must understand, I've known the Bells for many years… I know about
their… unorthodox beliefs, their refusal to drink wolfsbane for example. They
are dangerous Harry, some of the worse monsters I ever meet where from their
family. And yet I accepted Katie to this school." Harry sighed, looking
defeated. "I know she is your friend Harry, and I know she will be passing her
full moon cycles here with you, maybe you can help her, my boy, bringing her
back to the right path. Bring her back to complete humanity." Albus gave the
boy his most brilliant smile, he knew Harry couldn't resist helping others and
that was the reason he was perfect for his order.
"I will sir…"
"Go back to the tower Harry and rest assured I will see this foul piece of
legislation overturned. You need to work on surviving the tournament now."
"Yes sir, thank you sir."
Harry left his office, seeming even more confused than when he entered. Just
like the headmaster intended, his ignorance of the wizardry laws playing on his
favor. If Harry didn't cooperate this time, harsh measures had to be taken.
                                     .oOo.
Daphne entered the room of requirements only to find Harry lost in thoughts,
sat on a chair, one of his legs over the chair at his side. His tie was undone,
and he was playing with the golden egg on his lap. His feral eyes looking at
nothing, Daphne thought he looked good with that messy hair, she liked so much.
He looked at her and smiled.
"Hello Daphne, I missed you. I am sorry for yesterday…"
"It's ok, what happened was a low blow. We are very lucky you're not
registered." She took a seat in front of him, trying to give him her most
predatory smile. "I really missed you too…" He got it. Harry looked right into
her eyes. He knew something was different. Daphne moved closer to him. "We need
to talk Harry… things changed…"
"I can see, and smell that…"
The door opened, and Hermione entered, looking inquisitive at them. Daphne sat
back and not a second later Fleur entered. Daphne could almost feel the looks
the French girl gave her. The Slytherin simple smiled back at the two girls.
"It's good to be back with you girls. It has been a busy holiday it seems."
Daphne said in her usual neutral voice tone.
"For you too, Daphne?" Fleur asked.
"More than you can imagine Fleur." Her tone was serious, trying to convey the
truth behind these words. Those are their friends, maybe not like Tracey, but
almost. Also, Harry loved and trusted them, so why not trust them too.
"Katie should be here…" Harry sighed; Daphne could feel the guilty in his
voice. But there was also anger, a lot of it.
"We all feel like that Harry." Hermione said. "But it's too dangerous." The
wizard nodded in accordance.
"So, how it was last night with Dumbledore?" Fleur asked.
"He blatantly lied to me; he thinks I don't know how the lawing structure
works. The headmaster looked into my face and said he didn't know about it, but
it must have passed through him to be voted in the wizengamot."
"Glad to see our lessons stuck" Daphne said. "How come he didn't realize you
were lying and fishing for information?"
"I simply did not." He gave a mischievous smile that made Daphne hold her
breath, and she could see it had the same effect on Fleur, Hermione just hung
her head. "I told him the truth, but only the parts of it I felt necessary, I
know he is smart enough to catch me. Also, in his arrogance, he thinks he knows
everything about me. He still thinks I am obeying him and taking the wolfsbane
potion."
"Very Slytherin of you, I am proud." Daphne stated.
"Wait, you're not taking it?" Hermione sounded scared. Harry waved his hand and
gave her a reassuring smile.
"That thing is poison Mione, I feel much better since I stopped."
"But it's not too dangerous? When did you stop?" Hermione's eyes were wide
open.
"Three months ago, the first cycle after Fleur arrived at the school…" Both
Daphne and Hermione seemed to do some math on their heads.
"Well." Daphne said. "I can say I approve the changes. Back on track, why
didn't he register you as a werewolf?"
"I thought he did, but he said he trusted me, and he needed me to keep training
outside the ministry control. Not everything he told me was a lie, and that was
a true one. He is a weird man, seems like he is trying too many games at the
same time, but he seems obsessed with keep control over me." Daphne remained
silent; this was a conversation to have with Harry alone. "I really need to
discover why, I can't have him trying to control every step of my life without
knowing. He tried to make me suspicious of the Delacour's before and now the
Bells."
"Does he want you to keep having occlumency lessons with professor Snape?"
Fleur asked.
"Yes, I think so."
"Then there is your answer. I bet the weird greasy professor knows why. He is
too close to the headmaster. He is even on the order, isn't he?" The French
girl concluded with a prideful voice.
"True." Harry whispered.
"I say keep trying to get it from his mind, do to him what he is trying to do
with you." The veela looked almost evil now.
"I agree." Daphne said Hermione just uncomfortable bit her lips. Harry nodded,
it was not the best plan, but it was something. The door opened, and Blaise
Zabini entered. He gave them a smirk then looked at Daphne.
"You were right, something is off with Malfoy, seems like his mind isn't
working, really, someone is messing with it." Daphne nodded. Pansy was up to
something.
"Wait" Harry said. "Something is wrong with Malfoy? Something I should know
about?"
"Maybe when you invite me to your secret meetings, I will tell you Potter? I
hope you are at least planning for something good." The tall boy grinned.
"Nothing less than world domination Blaise" Harry joked.
"And here I was hoping for an orgy…" Fleur said with a sultry voice, making
Hermione blush. Harry laughed and let his egg fall. The weird golden thing made
a loud shrieking noise before Harry close it.
"Why do you egg scream in mermish?" The Italian asked.
"Mermish?" Both fleur and Harry said at the same time.
"Yes, my grandfather does business with them in Italy that is exactly the sound
they made outside the water." Blaise shrugged.
Harry gave Fleur a big smile, Daphne felt weird, only later she was going to
realize it was jealousy.
                                     .OvO.
"You called for me headmaster?" Harry asked, looking around the old wizard
office. The piles of books and parchments, and weird instruments, and the old
headmaster portraits around the walls. To his surprise, Albus was not behind
his table, as he usually was, but seated in one of the chairs around the coffee
table. Harry took a deep breath, trying to read his old mentor's scent.
Again, it was weird. All his instincts said he couldn't be trusted, that no one
with two scents could. Two scents, that was it. The man has two different
smells.
"Yes, harry my boy. Please have a sit."
Harry did so. Something was weird.
"Harry… I know things between us are going astray…" He raised his hand when the
boy tried to protest. "No Harry, you and I know true. I have no idea what the
Delacours and the Greengrass's had told you." He looked right into Harry's
eyes, but the young werewolf couldn't feel the now familiar feeling of
intrusion from a legiments attempt. "But I trust your judgment my boy."
Harry raised his eyebrows.
"I also know that this is in great part my own fault. See Harry, I took you for
granted, and I'm seizing the fruits of it."
Harry decided to enter in the game.
"You know sir, I have learned a lot about my family this year, and
unfortunately it was not by you. How do you think I feel? How can I know you
didn't do it by design sir?"
"Fair enough Harry. You are right about this, just as tried to protect you from
the fame your name bared, I also believed that not knowing about the…
convoluted... political past of your family would be good for you. Again, a
miscalculation on my part"
"Yes sir, you miscalculated the fact that I'm still human."
Dumbledore gave him a hurtful look, but sighed in resignation, Harry was right.
"Yes Harry, again, you are right. Now it came to my knowledge that professor
Snape may have overstepped his barrens at his occlumency sessions. And that
caused some… backlash."
"That is an understatement…"
"I can guarantee you that he has been reprimanded for his brash actions my boy.
But in the end, professor Snape's unkind actions can serve for something good."
"And what is that sir?"
"It can serve for us to start the process of mending our bridges Harry. Now,
are you interested in knowing about the order of the Phoenix?"
Harry's eyes got wide, and he simply nodded as much as he knew he couldn't
trust everything the headmaster said, he could at least compare with what
Sirius and Remus had told him.
"Alright, Harry. The order, as your parents Sirius and Remus knew about, was
the second interaction of the group. The first one was formed more than half a
century ago, to fight against Grindelwald. In its essence, the order is a group
of wizards and witches, servants of the light that rise against the darkness
wherever it may appear. With lord Voldemort growing in power and gathering more
and more followers, it became imperative to reform the order." He looked at
Harry to make sure the boy was following. The werewolf nodded. "You see, more
worrisome than the violence, it was all the support Voldemort was being able to
gather around the blood purists, who detain a great part of the political power
and wealth of the magical world. So, it was important to show the public that
an alternative existed, and we were this alternative…"
"Lead by you sir?"
"Only because of the circumstances Harry, it was never my intent or desire to
lead, but it was needed at the time. And right after your father finished his
auror training with Louvor and your mother entered the unspeakably, they
approached me to join the order. And for advice"
"Advice?"
"I don't believe it's my story to tell Harry, but something was happening in
between them. Maybe one of his old friends can talk with you about it. My part
is to say that they were received with open arms by me and everyone in the
order. And they stayed with us for more than a year."
"Why did they leave then?"
"Political differences…You must understand, they were no longer part of the
order, but they were always our supporters. We are still allies to the end."
"That… that is a lot…".Harry felt overwhelmed and confused.
"I understand my boy. You can ask your newly allies about it and take the time
you want to think about it. And you can be sure to come to me anytime you need.
I know sometimes it didn't look like it Harry, but I am on your side."
"Thank you, sir," Harry said standing up, his mind and senses racing. "That
means a lot."
"Good night Harry, send my regards to Miss Delacour." The headmaster winked at
him. "Oh, and Harry…" The boy turned to look at him. "To further prove my
point, I will be there at Sirius's side."
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