Chapter fifteen part two

Muttering under his breath, Albus turned his back on the portraits and strode out of his office. Phineas rose from his chair and exited his painting through a hidden door behind a curtain. He glanced darkly at another door which looks to be destroyed. That door had led to his other portrait that had once hung in Grimmauld Place. Unfortunately his disappointment of a great-great-grandson, Sirius, had burned his portrait along with a few others or had them locked down in one portrait. Instead, he headed through the hidden door and found himself in another one. Looking out at the room in front of him, Phineas looked around for the owner of the rooms and found the man reading on his couch with a glass sitting on a nearby end table.

"Potions Master Snape." He called, making the man look up sharply.

"Phineas?" Severus asked, frowning as he marked his place in his book and set it aside.

"You need to be careful, Severus. Albus is growing…suspicious of you." Phineas warned, watching as Severus frowned and shifted.

"How so?"

"Because you wouldn't let him see what Heirs Potter-Othello and Thomas-Woods were up against beneath the trapdoor. You've sided with Madame Bones instead." He answered, making Severus roll his eyes.

"I've never let the old man into my mind before so why should I start now? He won't dare have me removed from my post. He still needs me as his precious spy." Severus said, Phineas nodding lightly.

"Yes, he does still need you. However, he is a master of deception and has been known to use spells and potions to get what he wants. I advise more caution when interacting with him and whenever he should visit. I also advise that you warn Heir Potter-Othello about the headmaster's desperation to have him under his…guidance." Phineas warned, making Severus frown.

"You're being rather…informative. I thought you loath all children and anyone who doesn't concern you." Severus said, caution in his voice as the deceased headmaster scoffed.

"You're correct in that information. However, if you're unaware, Heir Potter-Othello is distantly related to me though cousin Dora Black who married into the Potter family. I always look out for family." Phineas explained, Severus nodding lightly.

"Very well. Thank you, Phineas. I shall pass on your advice and I will take more precautions whenever I have to interact with the Headmaster." Severus said, bowing his head slightly to the portrait.

"See to it that you do." Phineas said, walking back through the door and arriving back in the headmaster's office.

Severus stared at the blank portrait before reaching over and taking a drink of his scotch. He wasn't too surprised in learning that Albus was becoming frustrated with everything that has been going on. All of the old man's plans have crashed and burned and many secondary plans are now relying on the shoulders of that redheaded Weasley chit. Oh, he's heard about what happened on Christmas and the twins talked about what their father had done about their mother's attempt at controlling and influencing Harrison. He would have loved to have been there to see Arthur go off on his wife about her attempts to ensnare Harry; it must have been a glorious argument. Shaking his head, Severus glanced down at the Prince family ring on his finger. His beloved mother had never been able to fully inherit the family fortune; instead it had gone to his great-uncle who refused to allow his bastard father to become Lord Prince. His great-uncle was kind enough to supply his mum and him a monthly allowance, which thankfully never fell into his father's greedy hands.

When his mother died he had become the main target for his father's drunken rages. However, his father only lived until his Sixth Year which was when his great-uncle was finally able to step in and help him out. His great-uncle's wife had died during childbirth with their child and he had never remarried. When his great-uncle had passed, the man left everything to him. Unlike many other Purebloods and Halfbloods who gloated about inheriting a fortune and Lord/Ladyship, he had kept everything quiet. Only the Brotherhood and his close friends know that he's actually a lord; not even Albus knows. One of his good friends from the Potions Guild is actually his proxy on the Wizengamot in order to help him keep up the ruse.

"I'll get the charms and protections on this updated this weekend." He muttered, lightly rubbing the onyx stone set on the gold ring.

While his Occlumency should be good enough to withstand any attempts Albus might make, he still doesn't trust the man to not try something else. A charmed pendant from his family's vaults should help absorb any of the spells that the ring might not be strong enough to completely deflect and should help shield his thoughts more. He also made plans to make more Neutralizer potions for himself, Harry, Dean and the boys' friends. There's no doubt in his mind that Albus would love having the Longbottom's under his thumb once more. They had completely broken away from Albus a few days before their awards ceremony and had even turned in their Order of the Phoenix badges. That had been rather amusing for Severus to watch. The old man's face had paled and he looked as if someone had slapped him with a fish. They had also called in all debts that were owed to their House though they had cancelled the debts between those Houses they wanted to continue to be allies with; needless to say House Dumbledore hadn't been one of those Houses.

Sighing softly, Severus abandoned the notion of continuing his reading and instead headed through his quarters and into his own, private potions lab. There are four work stations in the room along with a cleaning station and shelves filled with various ingredients. Moving to the shelves, Severus collected all of the ingredients needed to make Neutralizer Potions. Thankfully, he'll have enough to give to the others and himself for the last week and a half. It's not that big of a stretch of the imagination that Albus might try something before the schoolyear lets out. Yes, the man seems to have given up on Ronald making friends with Harry and his group but there's always something that the old coot could attempt.

"It's always better to be over prepared than under prepared." Severus muttered, heading to a work station and beginning to prepare the ingredients.

-xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx-

Harry, Dean and Fred were released from the hospital wing the next day, in which both boys were glad to be back with their friends. When they walked into the Great Hall that morning, there was a noticeable drop in the level of noise as people noticed their arrival. However, things returned to normal after Tonks stormed up to them and smacked them upside the head before hugging them tightly. She then proceeded to drag them both over to the Hufflepuff table where their other friends were already sitting and smirking at them. Susan, Hannah, Millicent, Jillian and Eliana hugged the boys tightly, making them flush and glare as a few of the older male 'Puffs laughed at them. It was during breakfast when they learned that the 'official' story was that someone had broken into the school in an attempt to get whatever was hidden at the end of the trials on the third floor. 'Apparently' Harry, Dean and Fred, along with Hermione, George and Neville, learned of the intruder and went to go and stop the intruder. They obviously managed to but had been hurt in the process. There were also rumors that Professor Quirrell had gone after them to help but had been gravely injured in the process which is why he was sent to St. Mungo's instead of remaining in the hospital wing here.

The group of friends was more than happy to encourage the rumors since none of them felt like having the rest of the student body know the whole truth. Of course the rest of their House was more than happy to celebrate since they're now in the lead for the House cup; something that the Slytherins were very unhappy about judging from the sneers and dirty looks most of the Snakes were sending them. During breakfast, many Hufflepuffs were glancing at the group often and they knew that the 'Puffs wanted to ask questions about what had happened in the forbidden room and who had broken into the school. Harry, Dean and the others deflected any questions that were asked by those who were brave enough to ask them by explaining that they had been told not to tell anything by Madame Bones.

After breakfast, the group of friends headed outside where they were joined by Daphne, Tracy and Blaise. Sitting down by the lake, they happily talked about any summer plans. Hermione proudly explained that her mum has already decided on what she wants to do in way of occupation. Because Witches and Wizards don't really have need for Muggle dentists, Emma has decided to make a public library. The others were greatly interested in this, especially Daphne, Tracy, Blaise and Neville. They explained that there isn't a public library anywhere in the Magical world yet and most people just went out and bought whatever book they might need. Of course they wanted to know more about her mum's ideas and Hermione was more than happy to elaborate.

"Mum plans on purchasing a plot of land in Hogsmeade to build the library on. It'll be two stories and have various sections. The first floor is going to be the 'Magical' section and the second floor is going to be the 'Muggle' section. She's been talking about having private study rooms for people who want to study with their friends without worrying about disturbing others and there'll also be a computer lab for people to use the internet and other programs. They will be charged a certain amount to use the computers per hour." Hermione explained, the others listening with great interest.

"Will food and drink be allowed inside the library?" Jillian asked, remembering how the school's librarian was very strict about there not being any food or drink inside the library.

"Only water and some snacks. She has hopes of having a vending machine or two in the main entrance of the library. The children's sections will also have a play area for little ones and she's hoping to have volunteers to read stories to children on certain days of the week. She's also hoping that, in time, authors might be willing to come to the library for book signings and even special events." Hermione said, Harry nodding thoughtfully.

"It's pretty common in the Muggle world for such things to happen. I think your mum has a great chance, 'Mione." He said, making the brunette beam at him.

"It certainly sounds interesting! My mum is always complaining that it costs so much to buy books; especially since she might not even like the book until after she's purchased it." Blaise explained, the other Purebloods nodding in agreement.

"Do you know how big the library will be?" Hannah asked, watching as Hermione tilted her head.

"I'm not sure yet. Mum has been looking at the different plots of land to build on. She's hoping to hire plenty of people to staff the library and take care of the grounds. It's another dream of her's to have an outdoor reading area, like a small garden." Hermione added, smiling wistfully as the others grinned.

"I have a feeling that you'll be one of the workers." Harry said, chuckling soft as Hermione looked at him as if he were insane to suggest otherwise.

"Of course."

"It sounds like a great idea. I know libraries are very popular in the Muggle world. It shouldn't take too long before the trend picks up here, especially if your mother has a wide selection of reading material." Hannah said, Hermione humming in agreement.

"She's been asking Harry's parents, Dean's mum and a few others for various suggestions on what books to stock. There'll be many different sections for each floor, though more so for the Magical floor." Hermione explained, the others nodding in agreement.

"That's not surprising. There are so many different subjects in our society and then there's sub-sections of those subjects…"Jillian said, trailing off when she saw the others grinning at her.

"What?!"

"You seem rather eager about the idea." Dean said, chuckling as Jillian blushed and huffed.

"Of course. I love going to the library near my home. I've always disliked the fact that there wasn't any kind of magical library except in schools." She said, making the others chuckle but nod in agreement.

Conversation drifted and the twins revealed that their older brothers Bill and Charlie plan on visiting at some point during the summer to see the new house. Susan explained that she'll be going to France with Hannah and her parents and it was her hope that her aunt will be able to join them at some point. Eliana was going off to the United States to visit some more family while Jillian was planning on heading to her family's private island in Jamaica. Daphne and Tracy were planning on a joint family vacation to Spain while Blaise was planning on heading back to Italy to visit his relatives once more.

"I think my Mum has found someone knew in Nepal. She hasn't said anything, but during Yule she kept going out to the city." He explained, the others looking at him with interest.

"Are you okay with that?" Millicent asked, watching as Blaise cocked his head thoughtfully.

"Honestly, I would be happy if she found someone. She's had a few boyfriends, but none that she felt comfortable enough to marry." Blaise explained, his friends nodding in understanding.

They talked a little while longer about their summer plans. Harry, Dean and Hermione planned on staying home for the most part and Millicent just planned on spending time finding a summer job so she can help pay for new clothes for herself and Will. She didn't want to either of them to completely depend on the trust vault her parents had set up for them to use until she comes of age and acquires access to the main family vaults. Yes, there's plenty of money in their trust vault to pay for both of them to go to school and have what they need, but it was always nice to have pocket money, especially for birthdays and in case they needed something extra. Of course the others were slightly saddened to hear this, but they understood completely that Millicent is trying to make the Bulstrode name into a name that's respected once more. She doesn't want to live under the dark shadow her father had created and the only way to do that is to try her best and prove people wrong about her and her little brother.

After splitting up, Harry headed back up to Gryffindor tower deep in thought. Ever since he and the others brought Millie into their group, she's changed drastically. She's still rather quiet, but she's no longer frightened to jump into conversations or speak her mind. There have been plenty of times when she's verbally smacked down himself or one of the others because they got too carried away or said something 'repulsive'. She's proven herself to be very intelligent, thoughtful and observant. It was actually rather scary when he learned exactly how much Millie noticed. There have been a few times when she's caught him coming out of the Room after a private workout session. However, she never really asked him what he was doing. She would just give him this inquisitive look but wouldn't ask what he had been doing. According to Dean, he's had the same thing happen on numerous occasions. There was just…something about her that set his senses screaming at him but he didn't know what and it's been driving him bonkers.

Reaching the tower, Harry headed up to the dorm room and blinked when he saw his mailbox flashing softly on his bedside table. Toeing off his shoes, Harry flopped down onto his bed and grabbed his mailbox. Opening it, he raised an eyebrow when he saw two letters inside and waiting for him. Pulling them out, he closed the mailbox and replaced it just as Mira flew in the open window. She greeted him with a happy rumble and settled down on his chest to read the letters with him.

Prongslet,

Do you remember the concern you had about Muggleborns not being allowed to practice magic at home? I believe one of your friends had written home about it at one point. Well, we certainly haven't forgotten and it was just recently brought before the Wizengamot. While there were and still are concerns about the Statute being breeched, many happen to agree with the argument that was brought forth. It isn't very fair for students who live with magical parents/guardians to be able to practice magic while their peers who live in Muggle homes cannot practice what their professors want them to learn.

The outcome of the meeting was to have a set of wards placed around each Muggleborn's house. These wards will allow the student to perform magic in front of their parents/guardians only. They will also take a written oath agreeing to only perform magic in front of those who already know about the Magical world. Things are finally looking better for our world which is why the Wizengamot is taking such precautions. The last thing they want is for an eager new Witch or Wizard who just finished their First Year to go home and show their Muggle friends what they learned. While it's highly unlikely that another 'witch hunt' will begin, it is still a huge risk. Her Majesty can only do so much to help protect us from Muggles who would seek to harness our powers and use them for their own gain.

I wanted to let you know ahead of time though the story should break tomorrow morning. Ministry officials will be visiting over the week to get the addresses from students and to have them sign the oath. Officials will also be visiting the homes of other Muggleborn and Muggle-raised students who will beginning their magical education come September. While it might be concerning in having the students under a contract, it's so the secret can remain contained.

In other news, Kano and I are already preparing for the wedding come August. It's a madhouse here in Grimmauld and I'm not sure if you'll want to visit this summer considering on how many people are constantly coming and going as Kano makes plans. Her family is going to be portkeying in at the beginning of July in order to help with the final preparations. A lot of influential families will be coming to our wedding according to the guest list, Remus is planning on standing as my witness while Kano's younger sister will be her witness. The Delacour's will be attending the wedding as well, which is something that I figured you'd like since it's been some time since you've seen Fleur and Gabby.

We all can't wait to see you, Dean and Hermione again! Remus and Kano send their love.

Padfoot

Harry was shocked to learn that the Wizengamot actually approved of Muggleborns and Muggle-raised should be allowed to practice magic at home. However, he was glad that those living with their Muggle relatives, parents and guardians will be able to fully learn and understand what the professors are trying to teach them over the summer. He already knows that all of the Muggleborn and raised will be overjoyed with the idea of showing their loved ones who know about magic what they've learned. He completely understood the restrictions being placed and why they're put in place. It was easy to imagine an eager First Year wanting to show off for his family and friends. Word of the child's magical abilities would spread and of course no child wants to be called a liar and the child will strive to prove their abilities by showing off more magic which would continue to spread until it reached the wrong person. There's no telling what scientists would do to them if they managed to get wind of the Magical world.

Setting the first letter aside, Harry opened the second one and was shocked to see who it was from.

Heir Potter-Othello,

I never truly got to thank you for what you and your friends did to help my wife and I. Your parents have shown me and Perenelle the memories of your battle. You and your friends put yourselves in harm's way to retrieve the Stone and you were successful. I was shocked in seeing the parasite that Riddle has become and I have agreed with your parents to help back them in whatever they may do in an attempt to stop Riddle from coming back and waging war on our world once more. I also understand that you will undoubtedly be in the thick of it so I want you to know that I will be more than willing to help you in any way I can.

Your parents, godfather and tutors have spoken highly of you and your friends, especially concerning your talents and abilities. My great-granddaughter Lucy, is taking over as Lady Flamel while my wife and I move to one of our hidden properties to live out the rest of our lives in peace. I have told her about you and your talents and she has already begun to express an interest in potentially forming an alliance between House Flamel and House Potter. You should receive a message from her sometime this summer about possibly meeting with her. Of course your parents are to attend the meeting should you wish to meet with her.

Thank you, once more, for saving the Stone and keeping it from falling into the hands of Riddle. I hope to hear about great things from you, Mister Potter-Othello. You are an extraordinary young man with much promise and potential.

Sincerely,

Nickolas R.A. Flamel

Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Flamel

-XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX-

The last week and a half of the school year seemed to pass by slowly for those who had finished their exams. For the Fifth and Seventh Years they were filled with tense days wondering if they had any chance of getting into the college or university they applied for or if they passed their exams or had failed drastically. When their exams finally ended, it was as if the very spirit of the school had risen. However, Fifth and Seventh Years could be seen worriedly discussing the possible results of their exams which wouldn't be known until the second week of summer. A few days before the end of the year, Tonks nearly knocked Harry to the ground and was squealing and jumping up and down with him in her arms. Thankfully the over-eager Metamorphmagus had caught him in a relatively quiet hallway so they didn't get stared at too much.

"Tonks! What is it?!" Harry wheezed, nearly collapsing when his cousin finally released him.

"This! Look!" Tonks squealed, her eyes dancing as her hair cycled rapidly through various bright colors.

Harry blinked when she shoved an official looking letter at him. Taking the letter, he smoothed it out and blinked, his eyes widening when he saw the crest for Phoenix University in London at the head of the letter.

Miss Nymphadora Tonks

Upon reviewing you application to our university to study Criminal Justice and Criminal Psychology, we are pleased to inform you that you have been placed on a list which ensures that we will fully review your results with a high chance of accepting you into our university. Our decision was based on your excellent grades in all seven years of your schooling at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. We have also reviewed your O.W.L. results and were pleased to see that you qualified for N.E.W.T.s in Defense, History, Potions, Ancient Runes, Transfiguration, Charms, Herbology and Arithmancy. We will be receiving a copy your N.E.W.T. results as soon as they have been graded but your examiners have expressed their high hopes in your grades.

Should you have passed your N.E.W.T.s, we shall send you a full acceptance letter with details as to when to meet with one of the councilors from our university. You have also made it onto a list for possible full scholarships. We will be proud to offer you a full scholarship should you be approved by the board.

Brandon Withers

Brandon Withers

Dean of Phoenix University, London

"Bloody hell!" Harry exclaimed, his eyes wide as Tonks nodded her head rapidly.

"Can you believe it?! I applied to the university early January when the professors began recommending that we do so. I never thought I would get accepted by Phoenix University! I applied to Le Fay College in Wales and Hecate University here in Scotland. But Phoenix University got in contact with me first." Tonks rambled, squeaking when Harry suddenly hugged her tightly.

"I'm happy for you, Tonks! This is great!" He said, grinning as the older Witch nodded happily.

"I plan on majoring in Criminal Justice and getting a minor in Psychology if possible. Madame Bones recently contacted me about having me just apply and enter the Auror corps but I want to get my degrees. In order to become a Master Auror you need degrees or to have been in service for near ten years with a spotless reputation. Besides, if being an Auror isn't what I think it is, I will have more options available to me." Tonks said, Harry nodding as he handed her back her letter.

"You'll be a great Auror, Nymmy." He said, grinning as Tonks flushed but beamed at him.

"Did you tell your mum?" He asked, his cousin nodding.

"Yeah, I called her as soon as I got the letter. She and Dad are bloody proud of me. I think they might be planning a celebration for me though I told them to hold off until I hear if I've been accepted or not."

"Oh, please. They've practically already accepted you and given you a scholarship to boot! What's not to celebrate?" Harry asked, grinning as Tonks lightly punched his arm while blushing.

"Shut up. Anyway, how did your exams go? You lot got your results, right?" She asked, Harry nodding as they began walking down the hallway.

"Yup. Hermione made the top of our Year group and I think there are rumors that she's even broken a few records for First Years already. I'm behind her, then Daphne, Dean and Millicent, Tracy and Susan are tied, Elianna, Neville and Jillie are tied, then Blaise and Hannah are tied. I know that the First Year 'claws were getting flak from their older housemates for not claiming the top spots. From what I've heard Ravenclaw has always had the top spot since my mum graduated so they're pretty sour that a couple Lions, Badgers and Snakes have claimed the top spots." Harry said, snickering as Tonks shook her head.

"Many of them are just stuck-up, arrogant pricks. I've heard that there's a lot of inner-House bullying in the Raven's Nest." Tonks said, Harry frowning at the thought.

"I know that thing's aren't perfect in Gryffindor, Slytherin and Hufflepuff, but I thought that there would be some respect between the house of the intelligent." He muttered, making Tonks snort lightly.

"My friends said that Cho Chang has her own clique and they're terrorizing some of the First and Second Years. She has them terrified to go to Professor Flitwick." She said, making Harry scowl at the thought.

He hoped that Eliza wouldn't be sorted into Ravenclaw when she came to Hogwarts. If what Tonks was telling him is true, then his sister could be singled out because of her relationship to him. He's seen Chang and her group batting their eyes at him even though she claims to be head-over-heels in love with Cedric Diggory, a rather handsome Hufflepuff. Not only that but his dad and Sirius told him that the Chang's were very…hostile when they had refused the betrothal contract Lord Chang had presented to them. It didn't seem to matter to the man that they refused all of the betrothal contracts. He knows that she and her little group of friends are some of Hermione's main bullies, though thankfully his brunette friend has been standing up for herself more and more lately. It also helped that Jillian, Eliana, Susan and Hannah never went too far from Hermione and were always more than willing to stick up for her.

"So, anything exciting happen in the Lion's den?" Tonks asked, grinning as Harry rolled his eyes at her but grinned.

"Well, Ronald got a Howler from his mum again. Fred and George were surprised since they thought their dad had taken away or destroyed all of her Howler paper." He explained, Tonks shaking her head at the thought of the woman.

"Her Howlers are stuff of legends. I'm surprised it came while he was in the tower and not during meals. So many people would make fun of the boys if a Howler arrived for them. Her shrieking made it possible to hear those bloody things four floors up." Tonks said, Harry snorting lightly at the thought.

"Yeah, apparently Ronnie didn't do too well on his exams and barely passed the year. If he had gotten a few points lower on his results then he would've had to repeat his First Year. From the sounds of it his parents are planning on having him take summer lessons at the Ministry in order to help him fully 'grasp' what he didn't seem to understand. He wasn't too happy about that." Harry explained, wincing slightly as he remembered Ron's blowup about having summer classes.

-Flashback Start-

"What?! What do you mean I have to take summer classes?" Ron demanded, his face and ears rapidly turning a bright red color in his anger as he stared at the offending Howler.

Fortunately, or unfortunately depending on who you were talking to, the Howler had finished its intended message and proceeded to rip itself apart; leaving Ron standing there fuming at the shredded pieces while the rest of the common room looked on in surprise. Lavender, Parvati and Seamus appeared to have gone slightly deaf from the way they were shaking their heads in an attempt to clear them. They hadn't been able to get away far enough when the Howler had arrived and thus, they had been subjected to hearing Molly Weasley's screeches from a distance of a few inches rather than feet. Many of the older students were, sadly, used to hearing the Weasley matriarch's screeches though they had to admit it was rather interesting hearing the woman tear into someone other than the twins.

"Like hell I'm going to be going to some stuffy classroom during the summer. The summer is for goofing off and having fun, not learning and spending time reading books and doing assignments." Ron growled, stomping away with his friends looking at each other.

"Ron, you know we're going to be getting summer assignments from our professors, right?" Lavender asked, her tone soft as the irate redhead spun and looked at her.

"Why the bloody hell would they do that? Haven't we learned enough?!"

"Ron, we're always given summer assignments." Percy said, stepping up to his brother with the twins behind him.

"Nobody ever said anything about summer assignments!" Ron snapped, blinking when his brothers took his arms and dragged him up the stairs to the boys' dorms.

The silence in the common room only lasted for a few minutes before conversations resumed, though many were now talking about the new Weasley drama that is happening. Hermione shook her head, stunned on how thick Ron was to believe that there wasn't going to be assignments over the summer. Lavender, Parvati and Seamus looked at each other, mentally debating if they should go up and check on their friend. However, they figured that it would be best to let his brothers handle his impending blow-up. Lavender sighed and glanced up at the stairs again before following the other two over to one of the tables to wait for Ron.

-End Flashback-

"Needless to say he's been in a piss-poor mood ever since." Harry said, glancing at Tonks as she shook her head.

"According to the twins he did fairly well in History, Muggle Customs, Broom Handling and Customs of Different Races. Percy explained that if Ron does well in his summer classes and tests well, then the Department of Education will accept the average of the two scores and it'll likely increase his grades. He and the twins may not like Ron too much due to his…behavior, but they don't want to see a member of their family flunk out of school. All three of them are determined to help Ron as much as they can over the summer." Harry explained, Tonks nodding her head solemnly.

"Good. I know Percy plans on getting a summer job at the Ministry again and the twins have their training and their jobs with Remus and Sirius. But it's good that they're looking out for their little brother; no matter how much of a prat he is." She said, Harry humming in agreement.

Reaching the Great Hall, the pair split up and headed to their groups of friends. Harry grinned when he saw everyone eating at the Gryffindor table and hurried over. Glancing further down the table, he saw Ron, Seamus, Lavender and Parvati glaring towards him and his friends. It wasn't surprising really; especially since they now have four Slytherin's eating with them. Ron and Seamus had thrown a fit the first time the group had sat at their table and only when Professor McGonagall had come over did they finally shut up and learn their lesson. Apparently it wasn't right for Gryffindors to be friends with Slytherins and Harry's parents are likely rolling in their graves seeing him hanging out with the 'slimy snakes' according to Ron. Parvati and Lavender still manage to find things to snip about whenever they're near Millicent, though they have begun learning to keep their mouths shut thanks to Jillian and Eliana glaring at them. No matter how much the two 'gossip queens' boast, they're still terrified of Jillian and Eliana.

"What took you, Ry?" Eliana asked, looking up from her meal as Harry sat down beside her.

"Sorry, Tonks ambushed me." He said, grinning sheepishly as he piled his plate with a few sandwiches and some fruit.

"What do you mean?" Jillian asked, taking a deep drink from her thermos.

"She got a letter from Phoenix University. They practically gave her a full-ride scholarship and explained that, if her N.E.W.T. results are good, then she'll be able to study Criminal Justice there." Harry explained, grinning at the shocked and happy looks on his friends' faces.

"That's great!" Tracy and Daphne gushed, the others nodding happily.

Cheers erupting from the Hufflepuff table made all of them look over. They laughed when the saw Tonks being hugged and congratulated by her friends and by a good number of her Housemates. Tonks is a well-loved girl in Hogwarts, especially since she's been an outstanding Prefect and Head Girl. A lot of students from all four Houses looked up to her so it wasn't too surprising for others from the different Houses to head over and see what was going on. Harry and Dean grinned when they saw Tonks blushing and grinning as she explained what happened to various people; all of whom expressed their happiness for her and congratulated her.

"How many colleges are there?" Hermione asked, tilting her head to the side as the others looked at her.

"Well, there's Phoenix University in London. Then there is Le Fay College in Wales and Hecate University here in Scotland. I believe Merlin University is somewhere in Norfolk." Neville said, the other's nodding happily.

"The Ministry also has a program that helps Magicals get into Muggle colleges if they wish to. They're able to change the scores you get from your exams to something that Muggle universities and colleges accept. However, it's up to the individual to study and prepare for Muggle classes." Hannah explained, smiling at Hermione's eager look.

"It's also pretty common for Magical colleges to cross-teach subjects from both Magical and Muggle worlds. Andromeda knows both Muggle and Magical law." Dean added, Harry nodding as the others listened with interest.

"Mum's going to be happy to hear this." Hermione said, already thinking about what she has to tell her mum.

"You should wait until we leave for home, Mione. That way you have something to tell her." Harry said, he and the others chuckling at Hermione's look.

"I guess you're right. But there's so much I want to talk about!"

"And there's only a few more days left. You can make it." Eliana said, smiling as she patted Hermione on her back.

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The final days passed with a lot of fanfare. Three days before the end of the school year, the Seventh Years finally had their graduation ceremony. A stand had been erected in the center of the Quidditch pitch and parents, guardians and relatives of the graduating students filled the stands. Some of the younger students, mostly those who are friends and family of the graduates, were also able to attend. Harry was able to attend thanks to his relation with Tonks and he was grinning ear-to-ear as he sat beside Andromeda, Ted and Sirius, as Tonks walked down the aisle to accept her diploma. She had a bright smile on her face as she shook hands with Headmaster Dumbledore and then Professor Sprout since the woman is her Head of House. Each time a student was called up; the headmaster would say a few things about the student such as their academic success, accomplishments or some hilarious story.

Because of her position as Head Girl, Tonks and a boy named James Walters who was Head Boy were called up and each made a speech. There was plenty of laughter and jeering as Tonks and James regaled some of the more hilarious things that happened in the school during their seven years there, though they both touched on how much things have changed and how it has changed for the better. When the speeches ended, all of the graduates cheered and shot off noise-maker spells. A nice touch, though, was when a set of specially made fireworks went off and lit the morning sky. Harry chuckled when he saw the fireworks; his godfather and Remus had made those fireworks; that much he was sure of.

Headed inside, the graduates and their visitors had a luncheon in the Great Hall while the rest of the school had their lunch in their common rooms. Every Seventh Year was informed that they could remain for the last few days in order to partake in the last feast and ride the Express home one last time. Some signed up to remain behind while others were more than eager to head home and begin their lives as adults and graduates. Through the various conversations, Harry was able to learn that many graduates had applied to college and were taking various classes to earn the degree they wanted. Others were planning on returning next year as apprentices to some of the professors and would also be taking weekend or night classes at one of the colleges at the same time. Some didn't yet know what they want to do now that they're finished with Hogwarts while others were planning on learning from their parents, relatives or guardians in order to take over a family business or practice.

Tonks was one of the few who decided to remain behind. According to her, she still has her Head Girl duties to perform which includes sending off the Prefects on the train and helping the staff to ensure that everyone got onto the Express on the last day. Harry was glad that his cousin was so willing to remain behind while many of her friends said their goodbyes and promised to keep in touch and hang out sometime soon. Many were planning on portkeying back home with their family while some were going to be apparating as soon as they passed through the wards around the school. Tonks spent more and more time with Harry and his friends during the last few days. Slytherin made a valiant effort to gain more House points to put them back on top, but they weren't able to pull it off. The day before the final day at the school, the professors finally passed out worksheets detailing their summer assignments, which made some happy, such as Hermione, while others groaned and muttered complaints under their breaths.

That evening was the Leaving Feast, in which everyone was dressed in their best school robes and had to sit at their House tables for the announcements. The Slytherin table cheered when Headmaster Dumbledore announced their achievement in winning the Quidditch cup for the year, in which the silver trophy was placed in the center of the table. The banners hanging from the ceiling changed to show the Slytherin crest with a broom and the four balls used in Quidditch on the lower part of the banners. However, the Gryffindor table exploded into cheers when the headmaster announced their win of the House cup. The golden trophy was placed in the center of the table while the other banners displayed the Gryffindor crest. Ravenclaw and Slytherin were in second place for the House cup race and poor Hufflepuff had claimed third place. Sadly, in Quidditch, Hufflepuff had gotten second place with Ravenclaw claiming third and Gryffindor earning fourth place.

"Harry, mate, you have to try out for the Seeker position, when school starts up again." Fred begged, desperation in his voice as Harry blinked and raised an eyebrow.

"Is McLaggen really that ba-"

"Yes!"

Harry blinked owlishly as he looked at, not only the twins, but the three Chasers as well. Katie, Alicia and Angelina all looked rather shocked at their own outburst, but they were in complete agreement with each other. Angelina hurriedly explained that Cormac is a sexist, crude, bullying arsehole who was completely full of himself and put the blame on everyone else. According to the girls Cormac often made passes at them, even though they're older than the Second Year. Admittedly, Harry agreed with them since he had often heard some of the comments the older boy had made in the common room. Merlin, the guy tried to make passes at Eliana though he had backed off when Jillian threatened to turn him. Harry knew that Cormac wouldn't be too happy in being kicked off the team, but the Second Year sucked at Quidditch. Harry had actually cringed a few times during some of the games when Cormac missed three rather obvious opportunities to catch the Snitch for their House.

"Don't worry, I plan on trying out as soon as I'm able to. My parents have already been talking about getting me Seeker armor." Harry said, the girls letting out cheers which gained the attention of Oliver.

"The twins have told me how talented you are. If you tryout, you'll get the spot. I'm tired of seeing Flint's smirking mug." Oliver said, glaring over at the Slytherin table.

"Oh, he'll try out." Jillian said, making Harry raise an eyebrow at the girl.

"Oh really?" He asked, a teasing note in his voice as bright blue irises glared at him.

"Even if I have to drag you to the pitch myself, you're going to try out." She growled, making the others laugh at the girl.

Jillian, Hannah and Susan are all die-hard Quidditch fans. While Hermione often sat out on the games, the trio could be seen at the very front of the stands cheering and screaming for their team or whichever team they favored for the game. Harry knew that Jillian was serious about dragging him to the pitch so of course he promised to try out as soon as the tryouts were posted for the new school year. However, further down the table, Cormac scowled as he heard the three chits and the twins cheer and thank Potter. Yes, he's heard of Potter's 'legendary' skills on a broom. Madame Hooch often bragged about Potter's skills and how she had allowed him to help some of the other students who struggled with getting the hang of flying.

He doubted those claims. Wood and those three chits couldn't deal with the advice he gave them before and after the games. If they had just listened to him then they would've been the proud holders of the Quidditch cup instead of the blasted Snakes. It pissed him off that they blamed him for their loss of the games and the fact that they're so quick to try and find a new Seeker angered him more than anything. However, there's a whole summer for him to train more and get even better at his Quidditch skills. Come the new school year, Wood will be begging him to stay on the team and Potter will be kicked to the curb. Nodding to himself, Cormac grinned and focused his attention back to Morgana Dawson, a rather pretty Second Year who's managed to ignore him thus far. She has spurned all of his attempts to get her to notice him or go out with him. However, she can't keep denying him forever. If next year goes as he hopes, she'll be fawning all over him by October instead of batting her eyes at that prick Diggory.

After the feast everyone headed back to their dorms to ensure all of their things were ready for tomorrow. Harry wisely got his friends to think ahead and they packed things to do during the train ride in their school bags while everything else went into their trunks. Harry also headed out with Hagrid to speak with the Fire Lizards near the lake. He learned that more of them have gone out to explore the world and attempt to find other Fire Lizards and there are a few more from the estate here. Three of Mira's siblings are now on the grounds and have actually found their mates, something which made Mira and Harry very happy. Mira flew off to play with her siblings while Harry and Hagrid sat down and watched Norbert join the group.

"I'll be sure ta watch over 'em this summer." Hagrid said, happiness in his voice as they watched the cavorting Fire Lizards.

"How is Norbert doing?" Harry asked, watching as said Fire Lizard let out a small roar and began playing a game of tag with a few others.

"He's good! Gettin' big as ya can see, 'Arry. I think he might 'ave gotten some of my height when we bonded." Hagrid said, nodding towards his familiar.

Norbert suddenly broke away from the group and flew over, though he landed on Harry's knees instead of going to his bonded. Harry peered down at Norbert carefully and was shocked to notice some things that he hadn't before. Normally a Fire Lizard's wings show how big they'll get, kind of like how you can tell how big a dog will get from the size of their paws when they're a puppy. Norbert's wings are still rather large for his body and his scales are still shimmering, which only happens with hatchlings when they're still growing. Fire Lizard hatchlings often shed their scales until they reach adulthood. Hagrid had Norbert open his mouth and, sure enough, the Fire Lizard still has some of his 'baby teeth' so to say.

"I have heard of Fire Lizards adopting traits from the people they bonded with. You're blood likely altered his D.N.A. and he'll be bigger than a normal Fire Lizard." Harry explained, Hagrid nodding his head in understanding and agreement.

"Albus is havin' an official from the Ministry come an' observe the groups 'ere. They just wanna further understand 'em." Hagrid said, Harry nodding lightly.

"They'll leave if they feel threatened so don't worry about them in that regard. I just hope that the Ministry won't try and take any of them." Harry said, blinking when Hagrid lightly patted him on the back.

"I won' let them, 'Arry. Don' worry." Hagrid said, making the black haired boy smile.

"I know you won't, Hagrid."

Harry spent an hour longer with Hagrid just talking about the various creatures in the Forest and about their familiars. Harry promised to write to the large man, in which Hagrid grinned and said that he would look for Harry's letters. The rest of the evening/night was spent just hanging out with friends and preparing for the long train ride home tomorrow. The First Years learned that breakfast would be served earlier than normal since the Express would depart around nine in the morning. Of course some who loved to sleep in weren't too happy learning about this, but none-the-less all of them were excited to finally head back home and be free from school for a few months. Fred and George were eagerly making plans with Lee about when they can hang out during the summer and even talked with Katie, Alicia and Angelina about having them come to the Burrow sometime. Ron looked rather eager when he overheard that. It wasn't that much of a secret that the youngest redhead has a crush on Angelina even though she hasn't even said more than one sentence to him throughout the entire schoolyear.

In the morning, Harry, Dean and Neville woke and instantly hurried into the bathroom to shower and finish packing. After finishing their morning routines the boys collected all of their toiletries and packed those away in their trunks before shrinking their trunks down and putting them away in their pockets. Looking over at the other beds, they shook their heads when they saw that Seamus and Ron were still sleeping. Even though it was sorely tempting to let the pair sleep in and run late, they didn't want the twins or Percy to worry. Harry and Dean looked at each other before nodding with devilish smirks on their faces.

Pulling out their wands, Harry and Dean silently casted a charm Sirius had taught them. Buckets of cold water appeared above Seamus' and Ron's beds where they slowly began tipping. Neville's eyes widened before he turned and booked it out of the room, Harry and Dean right behind him. They shut the door behind them and began snickering as they sprinted down the stairs and into the common room. In the common room, Hermione, Eliana and Jillian blinked and frowned when they saw the three boys snickering and glancing up the stairs. However, before they could ask, Harry hurried them towards the door leading out of the common room.

"C'mon! Time for breakfast!" He said, lightly pushing Jillian towards the door as the girl looked at him with suspicion.

"What did you three do?" Hermione growled, trying to dig her heels in as Dean propelled her forward.

"We have no idea what you're talking about, 'Mione." Dean said, helping Hermione to climb through the portrait hole.

Before Eliana could go through herself, twin screams of shock echoed through the room. Those who were lingering in the common room froze and looked up towards the boys' dorm before looking towards Harry and the others. Instead of answering, Harry, Dean and Neville hurried the girls out of their House and scrambled through after them just as a soaked Ron and Seamus came running down the stairs. Dean looked back and smirked when he saw the pair round on Fred and George who weren't really helping as they rolled on the floor howling with laughter. Outside their House, Harry happily explained that he and Dean simply helped Ron and Seamus wake up so they won't be late. Hermione scolded them something fierce, though Jillian and Eliana were trying to stifle their giggles by covering their mouths with their hands. Neville had a grin on his face, though that only made Hermione round on him and scold him for not stopping the pair.

Thankfully, Hermione stopped scolding Harry and Dean by the time they reached the Great Hall; though she took to ignoring them during the meal. The remaining members of their House slowly trickled in, in which many walked over and patted Harry and Dean on the back for a prank well played. According to Katie, who was still giggling, the twins had taken the blame since they have done that to their youngest brother before and they certainly would've done the same thing if Ron had taken any longer to get up. The twins arrived and grinned at Harry and Dean, which made the pair smirk and nod slightly in thanks for taking the fall for the prank. Surprisingly, it didn't take too long before Ron and his friends to arrive and dig in, though Ron and Seamus kept glaring at the twins throughout the meal. When the meal ended, Headmaster Dumbledore stood and wished them a good summer and reminded them to take care and be safe. He dismissed them after that and everyone stood and headed out to the carriages.

The air was filled with a sense of excitement as everyone piled into the carriages and headed down to Hogsmeade. Chatter filled the station as many got into lines to get onto the train. However, some students simply found their parents and, after saying their goodbyes, headed to their homes there in the village. Susan was the one who found them a compartment near the back of the train and they were soon settled down with their trunks stored securely on the rack above their seats. Harry sat near the window with Mira on his shoulders while Dean sat next to him with Ricki and Shade playing on the floor. Neville sat on the other side of Dean with the girls sitting across from them. Before long, Millicent joined them and added her trunk to the rack, though before she got to sit down Daphne, Tracy and Blaise walked in as well. All of them were grateful as the compartment slowly expanded so they all have room to sit down comfortably after storing their trunks away.

The train soon began moving and conversation flowed easily. The girls crowded around Hermione and Eliana as the pair produced an edition of Vogue; something that the Pureblood girls had never seen before. Neville and the other boys began playing a game of Exploding Snap as they talked about what they were looking forward to. Neville was eager to get back to his parents and explained that they might head to the United States or some other country for a week or so just for vacation. Throughout the ride, a few people stopped in to speak with Harry or one of the others quickly. All of them were rather interested when Jorden Bow, a Hufflepuff in their year, stopped in and spoke with Susan about something. What had them so interested was the way Susan blushed softly when the boy spoke with her and promised to see her sometime during the summer. Hannah had a knowing smile on her face and it only took a few seconds after Jorden left for the other girls to practically pounce on Susan and bombard her with questions about her relationship with the rather handsome Werewolf.

Susan tried to brush off the questions by stating that she's just kind of friends with Jorden, though Hannah didn't really help matters by talking about how often Susan and Jorden study together in the common room. Thankfully, for Susan at least, the other girls backed off and turned to other topics. When the lady with the snack cart came, they all bought some snacks and drinks before settling down some. Pulling out books, magazines and other things to do, they spent the rest of the train ride in companionable silence. It helped that Ron and Draco didn't seek them out and attempt to antagonize them during the ride, which was also kind of surprising really. When Hermione came back from using the loo, she explained that she had spotted Draco talking with Spencer in a compartment alone. Harry made a mental note to ask his parents if they had uncovered anything about Spencer and his family other than what they already know.

When the train slowed down, all of them hurriedly packed away their things and shrunk down their trunks. Eliana was more than happy that she's now allowed to use magic outside of school. The Ministry officials had arrived early yesterday morning and all of the Muggleborn and Muggle raised students had signed a contract with the officials and were told about the new rules that they're under. All of them were just happy that they're now allowed to use magic in order to further understand their schoolwork and even help out more around the house or flat where they live. When the train stopped, they headed out into the corridor where they joined the crowds to get off of the train. Blaise made it off first and stuck around to ensure the others got off safely without being shoved or trampled. He had to sweep Hannah off of her feet in order to get her out of the way of Marcus Flint since the large Slytherin looked as if he had been about to shove the girl. Hannah blushed heavily but thanked Blaise and hugged him as he set her down.

It didn't take long before they found their parents, in which they were surprised to see the adults grouped together near one side of the station. Hurrying over, Hermione squealed when she saw her mum and pounced at Emma, making the woman laugh as she hugged her daughter back. Harry hugged Eliza tightly before hugging his parents while Dean was jumped on by his siblings. Blaise happily introduced everyone to his mother: Viola and his two younger sisters: Rena and Oria. Viola was a very beautiful woman with rich chocolate brown skin and silky black hair. Her daughters were just as beautiful and shyly greeted the others as they hung onto Blaise. Blaise promised to keep in touch before allowing his mother to lead them away since they apparently have an appointment soon. Everyone hung around for a little while before steadily heading home. Fred and George managed to break away from their family and promised to keep in touch and visit frequently during the break before they hurried back to rejoin their family.

Soon, it was only Harry, Dean, Hermione and their families remaining out of their group of friends. Lucas produced a portkey and smiled as everyone grabbed a hold of the hoop. After the customary 'jerk behind the navel' feeling and landing in front of the manor. Dean bid the others farewell before heading to his house with his family while Harry, Hermione and others headed inside. Hermione promised to see the others during dinner before she and her mum headed up to their rooms while Harry and Eliza headed up to his room so he could unpack. Mira was more than happy to be back and flew outside though Harry's open window to see her family.

"So?! What all happened?" Eliza asked, watching as her brother unpacked his clothes and handed them to a House Elf to be washed.

"Nothing too exciting." Harry explained, his sister humming lightly.

"Well, I still want to know." She said, making Harry chuckle and shake his head.

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