“Aright class. Got somethin really special for ya this year. He will only be here for about a month. So you better be nice to him or he will get vicious.”
“Great we are dealing with Blast ended skrewts again. Can’t you give us a break Hagrid?” Malfoy drawled from behind Harry. Michele tapped Malfoy on the shoulder. Malfoy turned around and smiled at her, “Malfoy, shut up.”
All the Gryffindor’s burst out laughing as Malfoy’s face turned a violent shade of pink. Even Hagrid sniggered under his wiry beard.
“Um, anyway follow me this way.” Hagrid called as he turned and stared walking around the side of the forest. Harry, Ron, Hermione and Michele ran up to Hagrid and jogged to keep up with his giant strides.
“So what is around there?” Harry asked Hagrid as he got level with him.
“Can’t tell you that.” Hagrid started. His smile showing through his beard.
“They were bugging me to tell them as well.” Michele told Hagrid.
“You know? Oh come on Hagrid, if Michele knows you have to let us know.” Ron pleaded.
“You’ll see him in a minute. And someone you all know.” Hagrid assured them.
They continued walking for a few minutes. Harry was listening to Malfoy drawling about how this would be another stupid kind of animal when it came into view. The fiery red head of a Chinese fireball came into view.
“Oh my god!” Hermione said shocked. “Hagrid you got a dragon?”
“Hagrid how did you get him?” Ron asked his eyes still lingering on the rearing head of the Chinese fireball.
“Charlie.” Hagrid called. Ron, Harry, and Hermione all turned and looked at Charlie Weasley who was walking towards them.
“Charlie what are you doing here?” Harry asked Charlie as Charlie put his arm around his little brother’s shoulders.
“Charlie gerroff.” Ron said pulling himself out of his brother’s grip.
“How is he doing Charlie?” Hagrid asked.
“He’s ok. He was a bit temperamental this morning but he is doing ok now.” Charlie told Hagrid. “We have about nine guys over there controlling him. They haven’t had to do a lot. He has been ok all day.”
“I can’t believe Hagrid got a full grown dragon.” Hermione whispered to Harry as they continued to walk towards to other side of the forest.
When the reached the enclosure they could see the Chinese fireball standing up looking at the new comers. There were about ten wizards all in deck chairs. When they saw Charlie they all jumped up and grabbed their wands out of their pockets.
“Hagrid he’s amazing.” Michele said as she walked over to the gate and gazed open mouthed at the dragon. Not even Malfoy could complain about this magical animal. “I err, I um, it’s huge.” He stuttered. Everybody climbed onto the gate and stared at the Chinese fireball, which was now settling back down and laying its head on the ground.
“Right you lot. This term you will be learning about dragons. You will be doing a project on them. Charlie here is our expert. So any questions you have, you can ask him or of course me.” Hagrid said, his eyes all aglow as he looked at the dragon. Everyone wanted to ask about the dragon and Charlie had his hands full all lesson trying to answer every one of them.
“What does he eat?” Malfoy asked, eyeing Harry like he would make a great meal for the dragon.
“How old is he?” another Slytherin asked.
“Is this as big as they get?” Parvati asked looking at the dragon like it was going to grow fifty feet in two seconds flat.
“Yes he is a full grown male. He isn’t dangerous if you approach him with caution. The males are a lot like Hippogriffs, if you are polite they won’t hurt you. The females on the other hand, they don’t like anyone. But this one is very gentile right now. Just go up and bow. If he nods his head, you are safe to go. If he doesn’t move then don’t get any closer and back away slowly. Also don’t make any fast movements, as he will think you are going to attack. Who would like to go up first?” Charlie asked. Everyone put up their hands. In the end Parvati was the first to go up. She bowed and the dragon nodded it’s head slightly.
“That’s great Parvati. Now go over and stroke his snout. They love that.” Charlie yelled. Parvati walked gingerly forward and patted the dragon on the snout. The dragon closed it’s eyes and put his head on the ground. Parvati beamed and walked back over to the gate. By the time Parvati had come back to the gate everyone was in a line to go up to the dragon. Harry, Ron, Hermione and Michele were at the back of the line behind Malfoy, Crabb and Goyle.
“So why do you think monster man over there decided to get us a dragon this year?” Malfoy snarled to Harry, Ron, Hermione and Michele.
“Malfoy, will you please for once in your annoying little life be quiet. You like the dragon as much as the rest of us.” Michele snarled back. Harry could see the anger rising up Malfoy’s usually white face.
“I don’t know why I stick up for you Lupin.” Malfoy hissed.
“You never stuck up for me Malfoy, you always pretended to when my grandfather was in the room, see Malfoy, you may think that my grandfather is a muggle loving old fool but I know you respect him. Why are you still here if you don’t?” Michele asked Malfoy. Everyone in the line was now watching the fight.
“I never liked him, the only reason I ever came to your house was to see you. If you thought I was only came over because your grandfather was powerful and respected you seriously underestimate me Lupin.” Malfoy yelled. Michele went quiet for a minute. Harry was looking at her, wondering what she was thinking.
“Why? Why did you come over to see me? If you hated my grandfather so much why didn’t you just go and make other friends?” Michele said quietly. Malfoy looked at her then looked down at his feet.
“I don’t know do I? I just thought you’d be a cool person to be friends with.” Malfoy snapped after a minute. “Look Lupin, think what you want about me. I’m going to go and get my head ripped off by a dragon now.” Malfoy said and walked off purposefully towards the dragon.
“Well that went well don’t you think?” Michele joked after a minute.
“Yeah very well.” Harry added sarcastically. The four of them stood in silence for a while. When it was their turn to see the dragon Harry went up first. He bowed to the dragon, which nodded his head and put his head down enough for Harry to stroke it. After a minute or so Harry walked back to the others and Ron went forward. The dragon again nodded and Ron walked forward and stroked his head.
“Why were you so mean to Malfoy?” Harry asked Michele quietly as he went back to where she was standing?
“I thought you lot were always mean to Malfoy?” Michele asked.
“Well we are. But you two are friends. Why were you mean to him?” Harry asked.
“He has been over stepping the friend boundary a bit. I needed to put him in his place.” Michele told Harry before walking over to the dragon.
“So what do you think happened between Michele and Malfoy then?” Ron asked as he got back to Harry.
“I don’t know. But Michele isn’t happy with him that’s for sure.” Hermione answered.
That evening the four of them sat in the common room talking about the day and playing wizarding chess.
“I still can’t believe Hagrid got a dragon.” Ron said as he made a brave knight go in for the slaughter by a ruthless bishop. Michele laughed as her bishop dragged the knight off.
“I always knew religion was the way to go.”
“I think Hagrid was trying to make up for the Skrewts from last year.” Harry started.
“Maybe he just wanted a dragon so badly he decided to get us one.” Ron suggested as he took Michele’s queen with his.
“Maybe.” Michele answered trying to figure out how to get her queen back. Hermione sat next to Harry looking up at the ceiling.
“What’s up Hermione?” Harry asked looking at her. Hermione jumped back into reality.
“What?” She asked.
“What’s up?” Harry asked again.
“Oh nothing. Just thinking.” She answered quietly. “You know what. I’m going to go to bed.” Hermione told the others. She walked up into the girl’s dormitory and closed the door behind her.
“Guys I better go too.” Michele told Harry and Ron after a few minutes. “I didn’t get much sleep last night, I need some more. Goodnight.” She said before following Hermione.
“What’s wrong with them?” Ron asked as he packed away the chess set.
“Don’t know.” Harry answered. “You know what Ron. I’m going to follow their lead. I’m going to bed.” Harry told Ron.
“Ok then.” Ron answered.
“Night.” Harry said as he walked towards the boy’s dormitory.
“Night.” Ron called back.
Harry walked into the circular room and over to his bed. As it was early Harry assumed that nobody was in the room but when he heard a sniffle he looked around and found Neville sitting on his bed reading a letter.
“Neville?” Harry asked. “Are you ok?”
“Oh hi Harry. I’m fine, just reading a letter from my gran.” Neville answered, wiping his eyes.
“Neville.” Harry continued. He wanted to tell Neville that he knew about his parents but he didn’t know how to put it. Finally he stammered. “How are your parents?”
Neville sat bolt upright. “My parents?”
“Yeah. You never talk about them. I mean I shared a room with you for the last four years and I’ve never asked.” Harry said, sitting on the end of Neville’s bed.
“They’re fine.” Neville said quietly. Harry could tell he had touched a nerve.
“If you don’t want to talk about them it’s fine Neville. I just wanted to let you know that I know about what happened to them.” Harry paused. “Everyone feels sorry for me, not knowing my parents but I know you have a hard time too. So if you ever want to talk…” Harry stopped trying to make eyes contact with Neville but Neville was looking at his sheets, moving them between his fingers. “Well I’ll be here.” Harry finished. He was just about to get up and go to bed when Neville’s small voice came out.
“Thank you Harry. It’s nice to know I have someone to talk to, without having to tell them all the details.” Neville looked up at Harry and smiled.
“Well, goodnight Neville.” Harry said as he got up and started walking over to his own bed.
“Night Harry.” Neville replied.
Harry changed into his pyjamas and climbed into bed. He thought for a minute about how lucky he was to have Sirius to look out for him. Harry heard the door open and close a few times but he didn’t look to see who it was. ‘Oh well at least I can have a normal life this year.’ He thought before drifting off to sleep.

Chapter Twelve

Quidditch.

Harry woke up on Saturday morning felling rather groggy. Rain was lightly lashing at the windows and Harry knew that it would be a pain to fly in this weather. After spending the next few minutes listening to the rain Harry got up and dressed. He picked up his firebolt and walked down into the common room, looking over to the window Harry saw Michele asleep in an armchair by the fire. Harry walked over and leaned over.
“Michele, Michele wake up.” Harry said quietly as he tapped Michele on the shoulder.
“What? What time is it?” Michele asked sleepily. Harry looked at his watch.
“Ten past Nine.” Harry answered.
“Oh. I must have fallen asleep down here.” Michele answered.
“Wait you went to bed before I did. How did you fall asleep down here?” Harry asked.
“I came back down later.” Michele explained. “I couldn’t sleep.” Michele was looking down at the floor. Harry could tell she was hiding something but he didn’t feel like giving her the third degree.
“Well anyway I need to go and have breakfast. I have practice today.” Harry said.
“Yeah I know. Michele answered. “Hey can you wait five minutes while I get changed? I’d quite like to watch.”
“Sure.” Harry answered sitting in the armchair next to Michele. Michele got up and ran to the girl’s dormitory. Harry sat watching the fire as he waited for Michele. Five minutes later Harry heard a door shut and he looked over to see Michele walking over to him. Harry picked up his firebolt and stood up.
“Ready?” Harry asked.
“As I’ll ever be.” Michele replied and started towards the portrait hole. Harry followed and walked down the hallway with Michele.
“I’m going down to get some breakfast first by the way.” Harry told Michele as the got to the staircase going into the Entrance Hall.
“I know.” Michele answered.
When they entered the Great Hall it was practically empty. Harry could see the rest of the Gryffindor team sitting in the middle of the table at the far end of the hall. The two of them walked over and sat opposite Fred and George.
“Hey you two.” Harry said as he sat down next to Michele.
“Hey yourself.” Fred said looking at Michele. “If you are not trying out for the Gryffindor team why are you down here?”
“Well I came down here to see you of course.” Michele answered smiling jokingly and leaning over and stroking Fred’s cheek. Fred blushed scarlet and smiled.
“I wanted to watch the youngest seeker in a century. See if he lives up to his reputation.” Michele told the twins.
“Harry is the best. The only time he doesn’t catch the snitch is when he is in mortal danger. He broke his arm and he still caught it once.” Angelina said coming and standing behind Harry. Harry could feel himself going red but he tried to ignore it.
“Well I will have to see this worlds best seeker in action won’t I.” Michele said smiling at Harry.
“You are all way over estimating.” Harry said looking at his bacon, which suddenly seemed very interesting.
“Come on Harry. You are the best seeker this school has had in ages. I mean take a look at Malfoy. He can’t catch the snitch when it is two inches above his head.” George protested.
“Yeah I suppose. But I mean Cedric was pretty go…” Harry stopped. Thinking about Cedric was still very hard. Everyone went quiet. Nobody wanted to be reminded of what happened to Cedric the year before.
“Yeah, he was a great seeker.” Angelina broke the silence.
“Great guy too.” Harry said quietly. “I would never of solved that clue in the egg last year if it wasn’t for him.”
Nobody talked for a while. Even Michele seemed to know that this was difficult for everybody. After breakfast the team made their way down to the stadium. When Harry entered he felt a cold shiver wash over him. The last time he had been in here there had been twenty foot hedges running through it in every direction and this was where he had been when he was pulled away by the portkey to Voldemort.
“Well what are you waiting for, Christmas? Get going.” Angelina told them all.
Harry got on his firebolt and flew into the air. It felt so good to be flying again. Harry could feel every bone in his body moving away with the wind. The rain was still lashing softly down but Harry didn’t care. Harry heard Angelina yell and he flew down to see what was going on.
“I’m letting out the balls. Ok.” Angelina yelled to the twins who were chasing each other around.
“Sure.” Fred yelled back as George grabbed the back of his broom sending Fred lunging forward. Katie was circling Angelina waiting for the Quaffle to be released and Alicia was talking to a couple of fourth years that were going to be trying out for the team. Only the position of Keeper is free Alicia was telling a rather tall forth year that Harry had never talked to.
“Right all of you.” Alicia yelled. Everyone flew down to where Alicia was standing. The bludgers and the snitch were still struggling inside the crate.
“OK everyone. These three will be trying out for the keeper position.” Angelina said indicating to the two boys and one girl standing by the crate. “Ok well we are going to try and score against you and see how well you do. Harry, Fred and George, you three take the boys and play around with the snitch and the bludgers.” Angelina continued letting out the bludgers and the snitch.
Harry flew over to the other end of the pitch then turned around to see Michele walking down the pitch towards him. Harry flew over and down to Michele.
“Want a lift?” Harry asked.
“Can two people ride that thing?” Michele asked laughing.
“Sure hop on.” Harry said. Michele paused for a minute then climbed onto the back of the firebolt. Michele quickly wrapped her arms tightly around Harry’s waist. Harry rose up of the ground and flew off towards the twins who were watching with interest. The two boys trying out were still on the ground holding their broomsticks talking quietly to one another.
“Well aren’t you two getting very close.” Fred joked as Harry flew towards them.
“Well Harry was the only one to offer for me to fly with him.” Michele answered.
“You can ride on my broom if you want.” George told Michele.
“I will in a bit.” Michele answered. “First Harry’s going to go and find the snitch with me, aren’t you Harry.” Michele asked Harry.
“Yeah sure come on.” Harry said as he flew higher. Harry heard George yell to the two boys, who got on their brooms and flew towards the twins. Harry and Michele circled the pitch a few times without much luck of finding the snitch.
“I better go back down now. I’m getting dizzy.” Michele said after about half an hour.
“OK just a second.” Harry said looking carefully at the goalposts where Fred and George were talking to the girl who was first to try out for keeper. “OK hang on.” Harry said to Michele.
“Why I thought you were letting me off?” Michele answered.
“Slight change of plan.” Harry said. Michele tightened her grip around Harry’s waist instantly. Harry sped off towards the goalposts. He could see the snitch, hovering about a metre above the middle goal post. Michele had obviously spotted it too as she tightened her grip around Harry again. Harry reached out as he zoomed towards the post. The snitch started to fly towards away from him but Harry sped up. He flew towards the snitch and outstretched his hand. Suddenly he felt the snitch hit his hand. Harry clasped his hand around the struggling snitch. Michele squeezed Harry around the waist.
“That was brilliant. Even with me on the back.”
“Thank you.” Harry smiled. “Do you want me to take you down now?”
“Yeah. That was a bit of an adrenaline rush. I think need my feet back on the ground.” Michele said as Harry started slowly downwards, the snitch still clutched in his hand.
When Harry landed he saw Ron and Hermione running towards them. Michele climbed off and walked towards the stands.
“Harry, Harry.” Hermione called as she ran towards Harry.
“Hey guys” Harry called back as he climbed off his firebolt.
“Nice catch.” Ron said looking at the snitch still struggling in Harry’s hand.
“Thanks.” Harry answered as he started walking towards the crate to put the snitch away. Angelina, Alicia and Katie were flying towards the crate and the forth year boy was following closely. Angelina landed and put the quaffle in the crate. Harry tied the snitch in and shut it’s little section of the crate.
“Fred, George. Get the bludgers and put them in the crate.” Angelina yelled to the twins.
Fred streamed after one of the bludgers, while George chased the other, which happened to be chasing Fred trying to hit him in the head.
“Ok, now we have seen what these three are made of we will choose which one is best for keeper.” Angelina said.
“Wait. We never saw anything. Do we not count because we only hit the big black balls at the stupid Slytherins?” George protested as he wrestled the second bludger into it’s crate. Fred stood massaging his head; it was obvious to Harry that the first bludger had succeeding in hitting him.
“Well no.” Angelina said, not sounding too convincing. “I just thought that the chasers should decide. After all we are the ones who score against the keeper. I mean how would you test them George?”
“Well that wasn’t the point but whatever.” George said. Harry could tell that Angelina had made her point. And that George didn’t want to admit that she was right.
After Quidditch Harry walked with Michele, Ron and Hermione to Hagrid’s hut. Hermione knocked on the door and they heard Fang’s booming barks echo through the hut.
“Quiet Fang, quiet.” Hagrid said, his voice louder than fang’s barks.
Hagrid opened the door and Fang bounded out to see them.
“Fang. Inside.” Hagrid ordered. Fang trotted back inside the house and settled on the rug.
“Lo Harry. Ron, Hermione, Michele.” Hagrid nodded to them. They all entered the little hut. Michele went straight to sit next to Fang on the rug and started scratching his ears. Hermione and Ron went and sat at the table and Harry went and sat on Hagrid’s enormous bed.
“So how ‘as your first few days bin?” Hagrid asked as he sat down at the table next to Hermione and started knitting with some horribly knobbly purple wool.
“It’s been great.” Michele answered still scratching Fang’s ears.
“Yeah, ‘ow’s your Grandfather?” Hagrid asked.
“Fine. I think he is a bit worried about the recent happenings.” Michele replied.
“What about you lot?” Hagrid turned to Harry, Ron and Hermione.
“Great, classes are better. Snape hasn’t yelled at us once so far.” Harry said enthusiastically.
“Yeah, I think something’s wrong with him.” Ron answered smiling.
“Yeah, something happened to Malfoy over the holiday as well. He has only been horrible once.” Hermione said. Michele laughed suddenly. Everyone looked at Michele who went bright red and carried on stroking Fang.
The afternoon passed quickly, the five of them talked about their holidays and Hagrid’s job for Dumbledore.
“Yeah Olympia decided to help us and go with me to the mountains in the end.” Hagrid said before realising he wasn’t meant to tell them where he had been.
After Hagrid’s the four of them walked up to the Great Hall for dinner. Fred and George were sitting at the Gryffindor table talking quietly.
“Oh come on. Ask.” George was saying. “What can be so hard about it?”
“Everything. Look just drop it ok.” Fred was saying hinting that people were coming towards them.
“Not blackmailing people again I hope.” Ron prompted.
“Yes we are actually. We are blackmailing Mum into killing you.” George said sarcastically.
“Ok then.” Hermione said as she sat down.
The Hall was filling up fast and soon the plates were filling with food. Harry was hungrier than he had been all week as he hadn’t touched any of the food Hagrid had offered him and the others. It seemed like two seconds later to Harry that the plates were emptying to leave sparkling golden plates as spotless ad the had been before dinner.
After dinner Harry, Ron, Hermione, Michele, Fred and George went into the common room and played exploding snap. Harry, Ron and George had all put their packs together so the bangs were three times as loud as usual. After three games Harry and Ron decided to get a pack each and see who could make the largest house without it blowing up. Harry had made about three storeys high when his exploded making Ron’s go up in a bang. At about twelve O’clock they all decided to go to bed except Hermione who was still trying to complete her potions homework.

Chapter Thirteen

Don’t kill the messenger.

The next few weeks passed as normal. Except for now there were four people in the group now. Michele was proving to be very useful to them. Snape seemed to be a lot nicer to all of them and if they were ever late to classes Michele seemed to come up with the perfect excuse almost instantly. Malfoy had also not bothered Harry since the beginning of the year. It seemed that Michele had told him to leave them alone and it had worked.
Saturdays were getting more and more demanding. Angelina had told them that their first match was against Slytherin in the second week of October so they were all working their hardest to make sure that they would beat them.
It was the first Monday in October. Harry, Ron, Hermione and Michele had spent the weekend catching up on homework and going to visit Hagrid. Which had been uneventful apart form the fact that Michele had found out about Hagrid’s cooking which had been very funny to Harry, Ron and Hermione. Harry had come into the Great Hall to see that Michele, Ron and Hermione were all sitting at the end of the Gryffindor table deep in discussion.
“No I am not finding out how you make an ugly potion to put on Malfoy!” Hermione was saying to Ron who was pleading over and over again.
“Hey guy’s.” Harry said as he sat down next to Hermione.
“Hey Harry.” Michele answered. “There were two letters for you. I paid the owl. Gave it some bacon.” Michele handed Harry a green envelope and a white one. Harry opened the green one and read the incredibly neat writing.

Harry
Could you please come up to my office after breakfast. I have told your teacher, I need to ask you a great favour.
Dumbledore.

“Oh, ok then,” Harry said. "Cool I get to miss Trelawney’s horrid looks for a while.” Harry said smiling. Michele looked at the letter.
“Oh I got one of them two. Except mine was I need to tell you something” Michele said, “Well we can go up together. Don’t worry I know the password.” Harry opened the white envelope to see Sirius’ Scruffy writing over the page.

Harry,
Why didn’t you write back to me after that first owl? I have been going out of my mind with worry! When is the next Hogsmead visit? Also is everything ok? Anything-weird happening? Just write to me as fast as possible.
Sirius.

“Quick give me a quill I will write a reply now.” Harry said. Hermione gave Harry her quill and Harry wrote on the back of the parchment.

Sirius.
I am sorry about not writing back. Rather a lot happened that day and I must have forgotten. The next visit is this weekend. Nothing weird is going on. Apart from Snape is being nice to us now. (only because Michele is with us.) Mr scar hurt once but it was because of a dream and I know why my scar hurt. I had a dream about Michele’s dad trying to kill her and Voldemort was there. So don’t worry about me ok. I am fine. How is Buckbeak? I haven’t seen him in a while. Do you want to meet on the Hogsmead trip?
Harry.

After breakfast Harry went up to Dumbledore’s office with Michele. They were half they way up the second staircase when Harry realised he had left his bag in the Hall.
“Look I’ll catch up with you ok. Oh, what is the password?” Harry asked Michele.
“It’s liquorice. Ok, I’ll see you up there.” Michele said walking up the stairs.
Harry ran back to the Hall to see it nearly deserted. He walked over to the Gryffindor table and found his bag under a chair. He picked it up and walked back out into the entrance hall. He went up the marble stairs and turned left up another stair case.
When he got to the stone gargoyle he said the password, which Michele had told him and stood at the bottom of the moving staircase. As he went further and further up he heard Michele’s voice coming from Dumbledore’s office.
“Granddad just tell me. What is going on?” Michele seemed panicked.
“Well Dumbledore is her grandfather then.” Harry thought.
“Michele, I am trying to tell you. This isn’t easy for me.” Dumbledore answered sombrely.
“OK, I’m sorry.” Michele answered.
“Severus went to see your mother yesterday evening. He said he had received a letter from her. When he got there, your mother, Susan was, she was dead Michele.” Dumbledore said quietly. Harry stood outside the door shocked. Someone had killed Dumbledore’s daughter, Michele’s mother. Should he knock? He couldn’t listen to this. This is a private conversation between Dumbledore and his granddaughter. He would knock.
“She is…” Michele couldn’t bring herself to say it. “Who would do this?” she said through sobs.
Harry knocked on the door. He waited until he was invited in. a few second later Dumbledore’s sombre voice came through the gap of the open door.
“Come in.”
Harry opened the door more so he could enter. He saw Dumbledore crouched in front of Michele who was sitting in the chair. Dumbledore turned his head to face Harry.
“Ah Harry, I have a letter for you, also a great favour. I must go and speak to Professor Snape. I assume you heard what I just told Michele.”
“Yes sir. I didn’t want to hear it, I was just coming up the stairs sir.” Harry said trying to make sure that Dumbledore didn’t think he was eves dropping.
“No it is ok. I want you to stay with Michele, make sure she is ok.” Dumbledore then turned to Michele. “Michele, I am not going to force you to go to classes today. If you feel you want to go then that is fine. Do whatever you want to.” He paused and put his hand to Michele’s cheek. “Michele are you ok? I don’t want to leave you but I must go and talk to Severus and ask him if he saw anything.” Dumbledore explained.
“Professor Snape found her?” Harry asked Dumbledore.
“Yes why?” Dumbledore asked Harry, not sure what he was trying to say.
“Well Michele, she saw Snape finding a woman.” Harry continued. He looked at Michele, who had her head in her hands, tears streaming down her face.
“Michele is this correct?” Dumbledore asked her.
“Yes.” Michele said through sobs. Dumbledore put his hand on Michele’s knee.
“Chele, I know this is a hard time for you. It’s hard for me too. It is taking every ounce of strength I have to stop myself smashing everything in this office. But you have to tell me what you saw. If you saw anything that would help me find who did this.” Dumbledore started. He had a resolute look on his face but Harry could see a tear rolling down his cheek.
Michele told Dumbledore about what she saw in Divination. While she told Dumbledore everything, Dumbledore started pacing the room, his head down and his fists clenched. When Michele had finished Dumbledore sat down in his own chair.
“So you didn’t see who it was. Who did this?” He asked Michele.
“No I just saw a masked man standing over her. Then he disappeared.” Michele sobbed.
“Sir, I think I know who did this.” Harry said quietly. Dumbledore looked up at Harry with a longing look in his eyes.
“Harry? What do you know?” Dumbledore started.
“Well Sir. You know how I have dreams that sometimes are really vivid.” Harry started.
“Yes.”
“Well I had a dream about when Michele was hurt.” Dumbledore’s eyes widened when Harry spoke but he said nothing himself.
“Well Mr. Henley told Michele to tell her mother he was sorry. But I didn’t understand him. I doubt he knew the curse would backfire onto him. And if it hadn’t how would Michele be able to tell her mother that he was sorry. She would have been dead.” Harry explained. Michele sat sobbing into her hands.
Dumbledore understood what Harry meant as Harry could see it in his eyes.
“Michele, did he say that to you?” Dumbledore asked, still staring at Harry.
“Yes.” Michele said shortly, offering no explanation like Harry.
“Sir. I think Mr. Henley had planned to kill your daughter. Only he died. So Voldemort carried it out. The man Michele saw was masked. When Voldemort was with Mr. Henley he was masked. It makes sense.” Harry said as he explained his theory.
“Harry we mustn’t jump to conclusions but I will keep what you said in mind. Now I really must go. Harry please stay with Michele.” Dumbledore paused and moved to Michele who was still sobbing. “Chele, We are going to have the funeral tonight. Do you want to come?”
Michele nodded slightly. Dumbledore kissed her on the head and stood up straight.
“I will come up the common room at eight and collect you ok.” Dumbledore continued. Michele nodded again.
“Ok I will see you later.” Dumbledore wiped the tear off his cheek and strode out of the room. Harry sat down next to the chair Michele was sitting in and held out his hand. Michele took it and squeezed it slightly.
“Thank you for staying Harry.” She said quietly.
“Whatever you need. I’ll be here.” Harry said smiling slightly at Michele. Michele stood up, pushed the chair out of the way, sat next to Harry leaning on the desk and put her head on his shoulder. Harry didn’t know how long they sat there but he knew that he felt closer to Michele, sitting in Dumbledore’s office than he had ever felt to anyone.

Chapter Fourteen

Making it through the day.

“Are you sure you want to go to class?” Harry asked as Michele got up and walked to the door.
“Yes. Snape was there, he found her. And plus sitting here dwelling on it isn’t doing much good. It’s making me feel worse.” Michele continued going down the stairs. Harry grabbed his bag and ran after Michele.
“Ok well you do know that we are half an hour late for his class right?” Harry said running down the stairs.
“I think Snape will understand.” Michele replied. It was true though. Harry was sure that Snape would understand why they were late.
When they reached the dungeon they stopped for a minute outside the door.
“Crunch time. Are you sure you want to go in?” Harry asked Michele, who was leaning on the wall next to the door.
“Yeah, I need to do things, I can’t just sit upstairs the whole time.” She replied.
“Well we could go and play chess. Or annoy Filch.” Harry suggested smiling.
“Ok I can go in now. How red are my eyes? I don’t really want to go in there looking like a clown.” She smiled weakly.
“You look ok. Just get this here,” Harry said wiping off a tear that was creeping slowly down Michele’s cheek.
Michele opened the door and they both walked slowly inside. Instantly, the whole class was looking at her and Harry. Snape looked at them both and walked over and whispered something to Michele, who nodded slowly.
“Potter, Dumbledore told me you might not be in class. If Michele wants to leave, you are free to go with her.” Snape told Harry before letting them both sit down. They sat at the desk in front of Ron and Hermione.
“Where have you two been? You weren’t in Divination, you miss half of Snape’s class and Snape doesn’t care! What’s going on?” Ron hissed. Harry turned around with a glum look on his face.
“I’ll tell you later.” He hissed back and turned back around to face the board.
Harry sat silently through the lesson. He could hear Ron and Hermione whispering behind him but he didn’t join in. every so often he looked at Michele, who was working silently, tears occasionally rolling down her face.
At the end of the lesson Snape didn’t give them homework. Harry thought that this was probably for Michele more than anyone else.
“Miss Lupin could you please stay after for a minute.” Snape asked as the class got up to go. Michele nodded slightly.
“Do you want me to wait for you?” Harry asked, packing up his things.
“Yes please.” Michele answered.
Harry walked to the door, took one last look at Snape, who looked a lot whiter than usual, and walked out the door. The door shut quietly behind him and he turned to see Ron and Hermione standing in front of him looking rather annoyed.
“Harry what is going on, you tell us everything. Why is this different?” Ron started but seeing the look of anger on Harry’s face he stopped.
“Is everything about you Ron? I wanted to wait until we were out of class, is that such a horrendous request?” Harry snapped. Ron went bright red, his face clashing with his flaming red hair, and looked silently at the ground.
“Harry what is wrong? Why were you skipping classes?” Hermione asked quietly.
“I wasn’t skipping. When I got up to Dumbledore’s office I heard him telling Michele that her mother had been murdered.” Harry started. Hermione gasped and Ron looked up at Harry, shocked.
“I couldn’t exactly tell you in class.” Harry continued. “I had to knock on the door, I felt like I was eves dropping. So I knocked. Dumbledore let me in. Dumbledore asked me to stay with Michele so he could come and talk to Snape.”
“Oh my God, I can’t believe it. No wonder Snape looked whiter than usual.” Ron said. “He didn’t yell at Neville, or tell Hermione off for being a no it all, or anything. He just set the work and sat at his desk staring at the ceiling.”
“Yeah I suppose he would. He was the one who found her.” Harry said quietly.
“Found who?” Hermione asked.
“Michele’s mother.” Harry replied. He was just about to tell them about Michele’s vision being correct when the door opened and Michele came out followed by a rather white sullen Snape.
“Michele I don’t think you should go to Charms class. Go and get some rest.” Snape started, he then looked at Harry. “Could you go with her Potter? I will tell Professor Flitwick that you are excused from classes for the day.” He said. He then tapped Michele on the shoulder and went back into his classroom.
“Are you alright?” Hermione asked Michele.
“I’ll be ok.” Michele replied. “Harry could you come with me tonight? I don’t want to be there alone.”
“Sure. If you want me to come I will.” Harry said. “We better check that it is ok with Dumbledore.” Harry continued.
“Yeah I’ll ask him.” Michele answered.
The four of them walked to the Great Hall and sat near the end of the Gryffindor table. About half way through lunch Malfoy swaggered over to them and put his arms around Michele’s shoulders.
“Hey, how are you? You haven’t talked to me all day.” He asked quietly.
“Oh so are you telling me that the world famous Draco Malfoy doesn’t know yet?” Michele answered annoyed removing Malfoy’s arms from around her.
“What?” Malfoy asked suspiciously.
“Look Draco I am not in the mood for this ok. Just go and wait for Daddy to tell you.” Michele answered, refusing to look at Malfoy.
Malfoy looked at Michele then deciding to wait for a message from his dad he walked back over to the Slytherin table.
“I’ll be back in a minute ok.” Michele said dully.
“Ok.” Hermione answered.
Michele walked up to the Teachers table and over to Dumbledore. Dumbledore leaned forward and started talking to her.
“Hey well for once we know something before Malfoy.” Ron told the other two.
“Yeah, Ron this is a secret I’d rather not have.” Harry replied. He hadn’t told them about Michele’s vision being true or about sitting with Michele in Dumbledore’s office. He felt that he would keep this to himself for a while.
After lunch Harry said goodbye to Ron and Hermione before going up to the common room with Michele.
“Can I borrow your notes from charms?” He asked Hermione before she left.
“Sure.” She replied hurrying after Ron. Harry and Michele sat in the common room for most of the afternoon. Harry had tried to persuade Michele to play a game of exploding snap with him but she said she wasn’t in the mood, which Harry could understand.
“Why did he have to take her?” Michele asked after a few hours. “I mean why couldn’t he of come here and tried to get me?”
“Don’t say that. Voldemort’s mind works in weird ways. Plus this is one of the safest places to be. It would be harder to get to you.” Harry answered.
“It’s all my fault. If only I had been killed in July then he would never have gone after my mum.” Michele sobbed.
“No, Michele it is not your fault. It is Voldemort’s. He would of done this whatever happened. It isn’t a master plan for him. It is fun.” Harry reassured Michele as he put his arm around her. “It isn’t your fault.”
“Thanks Harry.” Michele said leaning on Harry’s shoulder. “Can you still come tonight?” she asked.
“Definitely.” Harry answered.
“Ok. Well I’m going to go and have a shower before we go. Can I meet you in here at eight?” Michele asked.
“Yeah ok. Eight O’clock.” Harry answered. Michele smiled weakly then walked up into the girl’s dormitory. Harry sat in the common room for a few minutes then decided to go and get some food before he went and got changed. When he entered the Great Hall he saw Ron and Hermione sitting near the end of the Gryffindor table, talking quietly.
“Hey guy’s.” Harry said as he sat next to Ron.
“Hi.” Hermione said back. “How is she?”
“She’s blaming herself. She went to have a shower before we go. I’m meeting her at eight.” Harry explained.
“This is so horrible.” Ron answered, poking a sausage with his fork.
“I know. I can’t believe this is happening. I mean she’s been through so much already, now this.” Hermione said.
“I know.” Harry answered.
“Hey guys.” Fred said cheerfully sitting next to Hermione then as he saw their faces his dropped. “God, who died?” Harry, Ron and Hermione all looked at Fred shocked as George sat next to Fred.
“What? What did I do?” Fred asked.
“Michele’s mum died last night.” Harry told Fred and George quietly.
“Oh.” Fred said realising what he’d said.
“That sucks. Where is she?” George asked.
“Upstairs having a shower.” Ron answered.
“Poor girl. I saw her earlier. She looked down, I can see why now.” Fred explained.
“Yeah” Harry answered.

Chapter Fifteen

The Henley House.

“Are you ready?” Harry asked Michele when she came into the common room.
“As I’ll ever be.” Michele answered.
“Ok. Where are we meeting Dumbledore?” Harry asked.
“He’s coming up here.” Michele answered quietly. Almost right on cue, the portrait swung open and Dumbledore stepped through. He walked over and hugged Michele.
“Hey. Are you ok? I didn’t see you at dinner.” Dumbledore asked Michele.
“Yeah I didn’t really want to be in there with everybody.” Michele explained.
“Do you want something before we go?” Dumbledore asked.
“No I’ll be ok.” Michele answered.
“Harry, are you ready?” Dumbledore asked, turning to Harry.
“Yes.” Harry answered.
“Ok, well we better get going then.” Dumbledore said starting towards the portrait hole. He stopped and let Michele and Harry climb through before him. He climbed through and the portrait swung shut. The three of them walked down into the entrance hall where they were met by Snape.
“Severus. Are you ready to go?” Dumbledore asked Snape.
“Yes.” Snape answered.
Dumbledore led them out onto the grounds and down onto the path towards the gates. When the four of them reached the gates there was a man standing next to them. There was also a dog. A large black dog that Harry recognised straight away as his Godfather, Sirius. Harry looked a the man again more closely.
“Remus I am glad you could join us.” Dumbledore started. “There is someone you must meet before we go any further.” Lupin looked at Dumbledore puzzled.
“Michele, Remus, I wanted you two to meet. I know this isn’t the best situation for you two to find out the truth but better sooner rather than later.” Dumbledore continued.
“Dumbledore I don’t quite follow you.” Lupin told Dumbledore.
“Remus, Susan was pregnant when she made you leave.” Dumbledore paused and turned to Michele. “Michele this is Remus Lupin.” Michele stopped still.
“What?” She asked.
“Remus, This is Michele, your daughter.” Dumbledore told Lupin.
“What? This isn’t possible. She is, I am, what?” Lupin stuttered.
“My mum told me that something happened between you two, and she made you leave. She said she didn’t want me to know you because you were dangerous.” Michele said quietly. Lupin looked at Michele with a sudden fondness in his eyes.
“You have her eyes.” Lupin said he paused. “I was dangerous. You mother found out what I was, what I am, and she said I lied to her. She didn’t want to see me again.” He stopped and looked at Michele. “I can’t believe I have a daughter.” He stammered.
“Well here I am.” Michele said quietly.
There was a tension in the air. Everyone stayed silent until Dumbledore broke it.
“Well we better get going.” Dumbledore said, clapping his hands together. “Have to get this over with.”
The six of them walked silently along the road. The only sound was their footsteps sounding along the rocky road. Harry saw Lupin look at Michele from time to time. Soon the came to a fork in the road and Dumbledore paused.
“Right it is on the grass there. I set it to transport up to the house.” Dumbledore paused. “Sirius, please assume normal form please, I doubt you can travel as a dog.” The great black dog looked at Dumbledore then transformed into the thin man. Dumbledore continued. “Right we must hurry, we don’t have much time left.” He walked over to the grass between the two roads and picked up an old Frisbee. Harry looked over to Sirius who was now speaking quietly to Michele who was nodding sombrely.
“Are you all ready?” Dumbledore asked.
Everyone crowded around the Frisbee and put their hand on it. Suddenly Harry felt a sharp pull up around his navel he could feel himself knocking shoulders with Lupin and Snape. They flew through the air. Harry could feel his hair flying back away from his face. The cold air rushing past his face and arms. Suddenly they hit the ground with a tremendous thud. Harry tried to stand up but something was on his leg. Harry turned over and saw that Snape was sprawled next to him, Harry’s leg under his stomach.
Harry pulled his leg out from under Snape and stood up. He looked around. Michele was standing by the waist high wooden fence staring up at the house. Harry walked over and stood next to Michele
“Is this it?” Harry asked Michele.
“Yes.” Michele answered still staring at the house.
Harry turned around and saw that Dumbledore was standing behind Michele looking at the house with a sombre expression. Lupin, Sirius and Snape were all standing silently quite a way behind Dumbledore.
“Shall we go in then?” Dumbledore asked.
Michele nodded and followed Dumbledore up the path. Harry and the others waited for a minute before following. When they got inside Harry saw Michele sitting on the floor against the fireplace, which was back and gloomy. Harry shivered. the whole house seemed cold and quiet. Harry wanted to ask if they could light a fire but he figured that he shouldn’t. Sirius came over and put his arm around Harry.
“Are you cold?” He asked quietly. Harry nodded and pulled his cloak tighter around himself.
“Give me your wand” Sirius said to Harry.
“Why what are you going to do?” Harry asked.
“A warming charm.” Sirius said as Harry gave him the wand. Sirius pointed the wand and whispered
“Kellus”
Harry suddenly felt like a fire had been lit inside him. His whole body was melting from the inside out from the heat.
“That better?” Sirius asked him.
“Yeah, that’s great.” Harry answered loosening his cloak. Harry looked over and saw Michele shivering by the fireplace. Harry walked over to Michele and sat next to her.
“Are you cold?” Harry asked.
“No I’m ok.” Michele answered quietly, looking straight at the floor.
“Ok, I got some boxes. So can we pack up these things.” Dumbledore started. Michele suddenly looked up.
“That’s why we came here?” Michele said as she stood up. “We came here to empty this house?” Harry could see the anger rising in Michele’s face, her mouth opening and shutting her mouth in disbelief. “I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU BROUGHT ME HERE TO EMPTY MY MOTHER’S HOUSE!” Michele yelled before running out of the room. Harry listened as she ran up the stairs. The room fell silent. Dumbledore looked around sheepishly. Harry looked around at everyone else. They were all standing still, not knowing what to do.
“I’m going to go and see if she is ok.” Harry said after a minute. He walked out of the room and into the Hall. The green carpet led up the stairs onto an upstairs hallway. Harry climbed the stairs and walked along the corridor. He saw an open door and went over and looked through. He saw Michele sitting on the bed in the middle of the room. Harry walked in looking all around him. The walls were blue with deep purple boarders. A black metal desk with a wooden top stood under the window, the desk was covered in books and magazines. On the wall behind the bed was a set of photos in frames. Harry could see a picture of Michele in a cream shirt being hugged by a boy that looked a bit older than Harry. The picture of Michele smiled at Harry. A different smile from the one Harry knew. The Michele in the picture winked at Harry then turned to the boy and smiled again. Harry looked at the Michele sitting on the bed. A different Michele sat on the bed from the one in the picture. This Michele’s face was white and sunken. Harry walked over and sat on the bed next to Michele.
“Hi.” Harry said quietly.
“Hi.” Michele answered.
“Look I don’t think your grandfather came here to clear the house out. It is probably just his way of saying goodbye.” Harry told Michele.
“Yes but I don’t want to empty this house. I grew up here. And my mum only died a few days ago and already we’re clearing it out.” Michele sobbed, tears streaming down her sunken face.
“I know you don’t want to change. Nobody wants change. If it was up to me, nothing would of changed since I was a year old. I’d still be living with my mum and dad and I’d be living happily ever after. But life doesn’t work that way. You have to take life as it comes. And I think helping clear the house will help you get over your mother’s death.” Harry continued.
Michele looked at Harry and smiled softly. “You know Mr. Potter, you are the most re-assuring person I know.”
Harry smiled softly. “Come on. Lets go downstairs.” Michele stood up and walked to the door.
After a few hours the house looked like nobody had lived there. Harry thought it looked creepy. Michele was sitting on the floor looking through some photos when Dumbledore went over to talk to her. Harry stood next to Lupin, who was watching Michele and Dumbledore talk.
“Are you ok?” Harry asked.
“Yeah, I just feel useless. I mean I’m her dad and I don’t know a thing about her. I can’t even comfort her.” Lupin said quietly.
“That isn’t your fault. You only met her today. It isn’t like u had the chance to know her and you didn’t take it. You didn’t know you had a daughter.” Sirius said from behind Lupin. “Look Remus. Go over there. Try and act like the father figure. You can’t be a father till you act like one. Go, go.” Sirius said pushing Lupin forward. Lupin walked over to Michele and sat down next to her. Harry couldn’t hear what they were saying but he could see Dumbledore smiling for the first time that day.
“That was nice of you.” Harry said to Sirius quietly.
“Had to. The guy never had any guts.” Sirius winked at Harry.
“Ok is everyone ready?” Dumbledore said standing up. Snape stood up and nodded. Michele and Lupin stood up. Harry simply nodded.
“Ok well I thought we could plant a rose in the garden after we bury the body.” Dumbledore said. Michele nodded. Dumbledore walked out the front door and everyone followed. Outside was a coffin that wasn’t there when they had entered the house. Also a lot of people were now outside. Every one of them dressed in black dress robes. Harry stared around. He recognised a lot of the wizards here. He didn’t know their names but he knew their faces.
Sirius was soon standing next to Harry but not as the man he had been a few minutes before but now as the big black dog. Lupin also stood next to Harry. Michele was standing on the other side of Lupin, holding his hand rather tightly. Harry knew that this was for support and he was glad there was someone to give her the support she needed.
The funeral wasn’t like a muggle funeral. There was no priest. Everyone stood in a circle around the coffin. Only the people who knew Mrs. Henley spoke, Michele however didn’t speak throughout the service, she stood looking blankly at the coffin. Then when everyone who wanted to say something had said their piece, Dumbledore said a spell and the coffin started to sink into the ground. Then suddenly from where the coffin disappeared a plant started blooming at a tremendous rate. After about a minute it was a full-grown rosebush flowering white roses.
Dumbledore, Lupin, Snape, Sirius, Harry and Michele stayed a while after everyone left.
“Nice service.” Dumbledore had said.
“Yeah. It was what she deserved.” Snape answered. “I mean she deserved a nice service.” He said quickly when he saw the look on Michele’s face.
“Well we better get back to the school.” Dumbledore said after a long silence. “These two have classes in the morning.” He added nodding towards Harry and Michele.
“Yes come on then.” Sirius said standing up. Harry got to his feet. He watched as suddenly Michele stood up and walked over to the rosebush, bent down and fumble with something at the bottom. When Harry walked over to Michele he saw a necklace with a blood red stone in a metal cage around the stem of the bush. Michele noticed Harry.
“It was her favourite necklace. I thought she should keep it.”
Harry smiled. Michele stood up and followed the adults with Harry. When they got back to the gate Dumbledore picked up the old Frisbee and gestured for everyone to do the same. Everyone held the Frisbee and suddenly they were lifted up off the ground again. It seemed only seconds before Harry’s feet hit solid ground again. When he looked up they were outside Hogwart’s gates.
“Sirius, Remus. I trust I will see you both soon?” Dumbledore asked.
“Yes we will be coming up to Hogsmead at the second trip.” Lupin answered.
“Good. If you need to come up anytime I assure you that you will be welcome.” Dumbledore answered. After Lupin had a quick word with Michele Sirius turned into the Black dog and followed him up the road.
“Right Severus. Shall we go up to the school? We need these two to get back to their beds.” Dumbledore said quickly. Snape nodded and Dumbledore set off for the castle. Snape followed at his heels. Michele and Harry walked a little behind. Harry looked at his watch, it was two O’clock in the morning, surely they wouldn’t have to go to classes in the morning? As soon as they were inside the Entrance Hall Dumbledore said something to Snape, who nodded then said something quietly to Michele who smiled and nodded. She mouthed thanks before Snape strode off towards the dungeons.
“Right you two, off to bed I think.” Dumbledore said briskly.
“Ok.” Michele answered.
“Don’t worry, you don’t have to go to your first class tomorrow. Go down the kitchens in the morning when you get up to get some food. And then go to your second class which I believe is Defence against the Dark Arts.” Dumbledore continued.
“Yes it is.” Harry answered.
“Right then. Goodnight you two. And Michele if you need anything come up to my office ok.” Dumbledore said.
“Sure.” Michele answered quietly. Dumbledore strode off leaving Harry and Michele standing in the Entrance Hall.
“Well shall we go up to the common room then?” Harry asked.
“Yeah.” Michele answered.
They walked to the common room in silence. The only thing that was said was ‘Pumpkin’ when they reached the portrait hole. After they climbed through Harry set off for the boy’s dormitory and Michele set off for the girl’s dorm. Just as Harry was about to go through the dorm door when Michele said.
“Harry.”
“Yeah.” Harry said turning to Michele.
“Thanks.” Michele answered.
“For what? I didn’t do much.” Harry replied.
“You were there. That was enough.” Michele said before walking through the girl’s dormitory door. Harry stood for a second. Then felt his eyes drooping downwards so he made his way up the stairs to his room. When he went in he could hear Neville’s snores coming from the far end of the room. Harry walked to his bed, changed into his pyjama’s and flopped onto the mattress. Harry had just enough time to think to himself that Michele must be a very strong person before falling into a dreamless sleep.

back to Chapters 6-10
Chapter 16-20