Categories > Books > Harry Potter > Changes
AN: I don't own Harry, i think is kinda wrong to own a person…
Just a Reminder, this AU is a mixture of years 4 and 5, so harry is 15, hermione is 16 and fleur 17, I am also doing my best to improve both my spelling and my grammar, thanks to my betas!
I am a Illustrator, if you are interested in see illustrations for this story (Note that some are NSFW) you can go at you can go to: hpbayushi.tumblr.com/archive
Thanx to AWR and eragonflyer for beta reading and helping me!
Chapter 05
Harry, sitting at the Gryffindor table folded the letter he just read. Bertrand had delivered it and flew to the owlery to get some rest. He was very happy with Fleur's last letter. Her tone was way more tranquil, and he felt some new resolve from his French correspondent. He planned to write an equally happy and reassuring response. Harry didn't want to bother the girl with his problems, like Ron and the other student’s behavior, it was better for her to concentrate on the training. He planned to have the letter done for the big owl to take back with him, but Hermione’s exasperated voice behind him said otherwise.
“Harry James Potter, what is this history of you fighting Ron over me?”
“I see the gossiping central got a hold of you…”
Hermione sat down on his side. “What were you thinking Harry?”
“Sigh… first of all, I didn't fight over you, I know better… more like we fought about you amidst other things…”
Hermione raised an eyebrow. “Harry, I don't know what to say… but that is not an excuse to behave like thug!”
“Well, maybe when you feel comfortable, you can tell me what happened between you two.” she bit her lip, taken by surprise. “It’s not your fault anyway, Ron was being his usual selfish and jealous self, and maybe I really deserved it” finished Harry.
“Why would you say that?” Hermione asked.
“Because I’d rather spend my time with you” Harry answered, hoping that the girl didn't catch his blushing. “Anyway, I talked to Daphne” he tried to change the subject. “I think she will agree, I also would like to include Neville, Angelina, Katie and Ginny, maybe Ron…”
“Maybe…”
“Do you really think it’s a good idea? I never taught anyone.”
“You teach me as much as I teach you sometimes Harry, I think it will work. We need to learn how to defend ourselves!”
Harry got up. “Well, I need to write a letter before Bertrand flies away, I will think about how to proceed with that too, talk to you later.”
Katie Bell was cautiously happy. She really liked Harry, more than he needed to know right now. And he was developing really fast, Maybe too fast.
She imagined what he could do for her family in the future. He was powerful and famous. And now one of them.
Maybe they would no longer be third class citizens and seen as dark creatures. They could even erase the stain people like that monster Fenrir Greyback left.
All while satisfying her own needs.
He only needed to learn and accept.
“Am I using him?” She tough. “No, I really like him; I really like to be with him. I will help him become the Alpha he can be”
“If he survives until then...” she concluded with sadness
Fleur finished reading the letter that came back with Bertrand. She had a smile on her face. How could one be so down on himself but so reassuring to others? What could have happened to him? His letter was all cheer, a true admiration of her resolve, and even a promise of a butterbeer if she found him worthy after they met in person. At this point that was improbable.
And more than that, Fleur was certain that Harry would help on the mission her father entrusted to her. Fleur was also pleased she would be able to offer some more light on his past It was clear by his letter that he didn’t know who the Delacours were. The witch was really puzzled by this. Why would his magical guardian never mention them?
She thought about her father, the heir of a rich and powerful family, with both relational and commercial ties to several other important magical families all over Europe, and even so he still chose to marry a part veela. He and his friends wanted to see the old world on fire. He told her this the day he asked her help. “Do I?” She wondered.
Her thinking was suddenly interrupted by a fast-moving mass of silver hair. “It is true?” Gabrielle asked in a high pitched voice. “You know Harry Potter?” Her sister had always been somewhat of a fan, she loved the silly Boy-who-lived book collection. Her smile was captivating and bright.
“I have been writing to him, yes” Fleur answered with a wink.
“Aaaaand?”
“Aren't you a curious little bird?” in response Gabrielle showed her best puppy face to Fleur. “Well… he seems to be kind and caring, more interested in hearing about you than talking about himself, a little shy, and naive, but really proud of his friends, what? Why are you looking at me like that?”
“Nothing, nothing…” Fleur caught the knowing smile on the younger girl's face. “Will you introduce us when we get on Scotland?”
“Of course I will, now, off to class!”
Daphne sat down at the back table in the library. The table was really becoming their meeting spot. Hermione was already there, reading a book about the history of the Wizengamot.
“You two are really going forward with this?” She asked Hermione.
“Yes, we are tired, Daphne. Aren't you tired of people like Malfoy? Your family is older and wealthier than his.” Daphne could hear the hesitation in her voice. This was not her territory; the Slytherin could hear the disgust in her voice talking about the terms. Poor Hermione, so naive about how the wizardry world worked.
“Your Slytherin impression is not very good, Harry did a better job…”
Hermione actually smiled at this. “Funny thing is that the hat wanted to put him on Slytherin, but he asked not to.”
“Really, why would he do that?”
“He and Malfoy had a conflict on the train, over me and Ron, and again in the boats. Even at eleven Harry was disgusted by the hatred displayed by Malfoy. Add to that Ron feeding him some prejudice against Slytherin and finding out his father was a Gryffindor and there you have it.”
Daphne though for an instant.
“That is actually good. It will be our starting point.”
Hermione looked at her, confused.
“We will feed Astoria with that story, leaving out his father part. She can spread it to the right people, and in a couple days the whole of Slytherin will know that the Boy-who-lived could had been one of us, if it wasn't for Malfoy. We lost all this fame, and the best seeker in a century because of him… even something small like that can go a long way.”
Hermione was baffled. “So, you will work with us?”
“Tell Harry the lessons will start as soon we can find a secure spot” Daphne said with a grin.
“Potter and his idiotic entourage have been stealing from my stock again…” Severus Snape exclaimed after entering the headmaster's office.
“And what makes you say that Severus” Albus Dumbledore replied, looking over his half moon glasses to the slim, greasy haired man in front of him. All those years of making potions in a dungeon were catching up to him. Snape looked at least ten years older than he really was.
“Lemon drop?”
“Who else would do it? They did it his second year, and are doing it again. Some mischievous plan to get more attention for sure” The professor responded as he waved his hand, dismissing the candy.
“I find it hard to believe Severus. as you may have noticed, Harry's dedication to his studies had improved substantially this term, and I believe Ms. Granger is significantly responsible for it. It seems the boy has finally realized that to excel in his studies is in his own best interests. I am sure he already discovered he will not be able to pursuit a career as professional athlete. Maybe you made some mistake at your last count?”
Snape looked at him with a sneer, offended by the suggestion. Dumbledore rejoiced in his own ability to make him lose his temper.
Of course, Albus Dumbledore knew exactly who was stealing from his professor’s stock. And for now, it suited his plans to have the impostor at the school, though under extreme vigilance. At least until he found the whereabouts of the true Alastor Moody. It would both keep Harry Potter on his toe, and be a source of information about Tom.
“If not for that, why have you summoned me, sir?” Snape asked.
“Oh yes, I would like to request you to double the dose on Harry's potion over the next lunar cycle, seems like we both underestimated the strength of the curse in such a powerful young man.”
Snape looked thoughtful.
“Sir, why are you doing this? This may poison the boy beyond reversal; I don't like him, but…”
“The alternative is way worse Severus. If we don't control it, we may end up with another Greyback, or worse. Also we can build his own tolerance to the curse, making him more able to control it.”
“But he can also lose control of himself in the process, becoming nothing more than a puppet”
“That is exactly what I hope” Albus thought to himself, but his answer to the man in front of him was different. “You underestimate the boy, Severus. He has already proved himself capable of great things.”
“Now, if you will excuse me, I need to supervise the preparations for our notable guests’ arrival, both domestic and from abroad. I heard Madam Dolores Umbrage has some quite high standards.”
Sirius got back on his feet, panting and sweating profusely. “Damn French heat. That was close, but not good enough, my mark was off by almost two seconds.”
He looked at the three people in front of him, they were some of his oldest friends and allies, people he let down once… Remus had an apprehensive gaze, Apolline looked beautiful and stoic, as always, and Jacques just appear to be amused.
“Again…”
“Are you sure Sirius?” Lupin asked.
“Yeas, I am serious”
All three of them looked at each other.
“Seriously? A Sirius serious joke?” Apolline with her musical laughter doubled up on the joke. This provoke and outburst of laughter from the three men.
“Yeah, I spent too much time in that hell hole. I am but a shadow of my older self. I need to be in shape to teach Harry. You saw him Remus; those years with the Dursleys took too much from him. The boy has all that raw power, but his wand work is shit, and he acts only by instinct. He will need to make up for all those lost years.”
“His lost years or yours?” Jacques asked?
“Humf, shouldn't you be at some boring political fundraising event right now Jacques?”
“Non, this iz more fun.”
“OK” Sirius said resolute, then took a deep breath. “Again!”
All three raised their wands at the same time.
Hermione was torn. At one side, her plan with Daphne was going well, over the last week, the rumors about Slytherin Harry had spread, even over to the other houses. The fact Draco had a black eye and broken nose no one could seem to fix also didn't help. Daphne was also quite busy building her connections with the upper year students.
Hermione also couldn't deny a certain satisfaction in seeing a woman taking power, even if slowly.
But the girls were not fooled; Malfoy would come back soon, and he would be ruthless, Daphne was specifically afraid for Astoria. The girls knew the Slytherin would have to do something bold and soon.
Harry was also quite dedicated to his studies, specifically ancient runes, which he seemed to have a natural talent for. He was making up for the lost time in a dedicated way that made her proud. Also gave her an excuse to spend time with him.
Ron on the other hand didn't even bother trying to talk to them anymore.
But Harry also traded letters with Fleur right up to three days before she left for Hogwarts. Most of the subject of the letters was just two friends exchanging experiences and for some reason that made Hermione nervous.
And then, there was Katie. Katie was beautiful, fierce. Her body was fit and she was not shy about it, she was a great player and that was a plus for Harry, and she mostly definitely was sexually active. Harry took long walks with her, sometimes an hour had gone by before they were seen again, smiling, the boy with even messier hair. Most people realized something was happening, how could a bushy haired bookworm like her compete? But Hermione also had other suspicions.
Katie was also cursed. She must be.
But when pressed, Harry always said they were not together, just close.
But where did that leave her? She didn’t want the “friend” position anymore, her nights spent dreaming of Harry, only to waking up soaked, her hands finding herself in the silence of the bedroom. She had even done it in the library after Harry left one of their study sessions to meet Katie. The thought of the two of them together plus the almost empty library proved too much for the witch to resist. She came with her hands inside her knickers, under the table as images of Katie and Harry in a broom cupboard or the quidditch dressing room went through her mind. Hermione had to run and change her wet underwear thinking about how come she had the Gryffindor courage to do that, but not be able to talk to the person who was her best friend and crush for almost five years now.
With all that, plus Daphne’s problem on her mind, Hermione ended up having a busy week. She barely notice when the ministry officials joined the professors at the staff table.
“Hey, what are you laughing at?” Harry's voice brought Katie back.
“I was just thinking… next year's cup will be really unfair with both of us on the team. Damn, it’s going to be great!” she laughed again. “Can you imagine you and that blond git? He will never know what hit him”
Harry laughed. Katie could only admire him again. They were at the top of the astronomy tower, looking at the lake and waiting. The sex had been great, once again, and they both lay naked. For the first time, he appeared to be feeling comfortable being completely nude next her. She felt he trusted her.
He was slim, but incredibly defined for fifteen years old. He was a little short but not small in any other way, a true seeker through and through. She found she liked that. And then there were the scars. His life as a werewolf had just begun, but his body was already more marked than most men would ever get. There was the bite scar on his left shoulder, and the strange marks Katie suspect were from beatings on his back. There was also a big one on his right bicep, like a piercing instrument had entered there, and something like a burn mark around it. There was also an assortment of cut scars all over his upper body. She could now understand why trust was a rare commodity for Harry. But even more intriguing was his smell. For Katie, it was Harry's scent, and if she had to describe it would be something like the strong wind before a storm, mixed with… protection? It was a powerful combination, and she was somewhat relieved she was the only that could sense it. Or she would have had to fight off the other girls.
Katie knew he was not only her’s. If he was an alpha like the girl suspected, there would be others, and she actually liked it. A lot!
Looking at him and thinking all those things made her wet again, and Harry smiled at her, of course he could smell her arousal. “Damn, once he learned what that scent was, I imagine how awkward it would be to smell Hermione when she was around him.”
She got closer to him; she could also smell his own arousal. But there was something else.
“Sorry to ruin the mood,” Harry said, “but I wanted to ask you something…”
“Sure Harry.” She sat at his side, their bodies touching.
“These feelings of anger, this… rage… how do you cope with it? Sometimes I want to rip Malfoy's head off, specifically after what he did to Astoria. And sometimes I feel like I am really close to doing just that.”
“I totally understand…” Katie stayed in silence for a while, thinking. How she wished her Mom or grandfather were here, they could have done it much better than she. “I am a half-blood, and have gone to muggle primary school you know. Damn, I loved school. I think it’s because both humans and wolves are social beasts” she looked at him and found only interest in those eyes. “Well, that was until the day this kid entered our class. The boy was a prat. Picking on others, stealing food, beating on the weaker boys. My mom had alerted me to stay away, that I might have to leave the school if something weird happened if you know what I mean. I was nine at the time; I was starting to understand the division between wizards and muggles you know.”
She looked at the lake, the setting sun light reflecting on its gentle waves.
“But then, one day, he messed with a dear friend to close to the full moon, and I lost it!” Harry could hear the emotion on the girl's voice and embraced her, his protective instincts kicking in. Feeling reassured, Katie continued. “I hit him hard. I don't even remember. They said I screamed, and punched, and kicked and bit. When they finally got us apart, the kid was a bloody mess. The friend I was defending was afraid me. I was expelled. When I got home, expected to be grounded forever, but my family had other plans. First my grandfather, asked for me to tell what had happened. And then, he simply asked how it felt. I looked into his eyes and I couldn't lie, Harry. I said it felt... good.”
Katie looked at Harry's expecting the disgust look, but found only understanding.
“Then he said it was supposed to feel good, that I should not be embarrassed by that. The rage, he said, was part of me, and denying it would only make it grow, I should embrace and dominate it, not let it dominate me. I asked him why I have this thing in me. And his answer resonates with me until this day. He said that the rage was there not to hurt those we hate, but to protect those we love. To protect the pack.”
Harry looked deep into her caramel eyes, absorbing the words. Then he gave her a deep, slow, caring kiss.
When they parted, Katie debated with herself about telling him about being an alpha, love and hate. But they were surprised by movement in the sky.
A giant carriage, pulled by a great number of Pegasus appeared in the sky, directing itself to the castle. At the same time an enormous and somewhat sinister ship emerged from the depths of the lake.
“Well, that’s our cue” Katie said. “Our guests have arrived, and we really need a shower”
Fleur finished her food feeling really tired. It had been a six-hour trip from Beauxbatons to Hogwarts, on that dreadful carriage, and upon arriving, the students had been shocked with the news that they would be sleeping on the carriage.
Now sitting at the Ravenclaw table, she was annoyed that the only two boys not acting like idiots around her were a blonde seventh year, who sat with an Asian girl and a dark haired one who seems to be friends with the couple. She was not fooled, the boy, who she learned was named Cedric Diggory, was affected, but liked her girlfriend enough to pretend not to. As the other boy, Robert or something, he appeared to be much more interested in the Slytherin table and the Durmstrang committee. Weird lot that one, all boys, pretending to a variable degree of success not to be impressed or even interested. Men…
The other girls quickly realized what was happening, and withdrew from her as well, just like Beauxbatons, she was even trying to suppress herself.
So now Fleur was tired and feeling peeved.
At least Hogwarts was everything she had been told. The castle was enormous, imposing. The lake was truly beautiful when they arrived, the sun setting behind the forbidden forest. The entrance Hall was impressive, with all the giant statues, and the ceiling of the great Hall was as beautiful as the legends said. Fleur couldn't help but find the entirety of the castle a little cold. Beautiful, but somewhat oppressive.
After the school delegations were presented, with her giving her better fake smile (the same one she uses to give at the political parties at Delacour manor) the Beauxbatons students were sat down at the Ravenclaw table. How she wished it had been the Gryffindor's. Then an actually pleasant dinner was served. The elves had prepared a variety of plates, typical from all the three involved schools but it went all downhill from there.
The Goblet of Fire was presented, and as is common with many of those ancient magical items, it was less impressive than the legends made believe. Headmaster Dumbledore proceeded to present the tournament staff, starting with the ministry officials. Fleur didn't pay much attention, she barely hide her disgust when the small toad like woman with terrible fashion sense was presented, then he moved to present madam Maxine and the Durmstrang headmaster and finished explaining the tournament participation rules. After that all students were liberated to interact or go back to their common rooms.
The two Ravenclaw girls in front of her simply stood and moved to another place on the table, Fleur sighed.
“Come on little bird” Regine said coming closer to her. “It is not that bad…”
Fleur looked at her with a smirk.
“Here, let me do something to cheer you up”
“And what would that be?”
Let's meet my cousin” Regine said standing. Fleur promptly understood, and followed her to the Gryffindor table.
“Fleur, this is my cousin, Angelina Johnson” Regine said in English, gesturing at a tall, athletic girl, probably their own age, with a wide smile.
“it 'ez a great pleasure finally meeting you” Fleur said politely, giving the tall girl a kiss on the check.
“Likewise, Reg has told me many good things about you, here, let me introduce you to my friends.” She gave her a knowing smile that made the French girl blush.
Around the table, Fleur notice the boys looking at her again. Even suppressing the allure, it wasn’t hard to notice how they were affected, most went instantly silent, making the girls aware that something was happening. A red haired boy some places up front seemed particularly affect, looking at her with dazed eyes. “Not again…” she thought.
Angelina rolled her eyes and said. “This silent git over here is my boyfriend Fred, and the other one is obviously his brother George, congratulations, you managed to shut then up, Alicia and I are trying to do this for a year now” she said with no anger in her voice, pointing to the other girl on the left of the twin brothers, “this is Katie” she moved along, pointing at a beautiful black haired girl laughing at yet another silent boy, but this one was looking down at the table. “The other girl is called Hermione” she said in a really low voice as if trying not to get attention. Hermione got her eyes up and smiled at her, there was Harry's best friend, the one he talked about with great care on his letters. “And there, in the middle of then” Angelina said in her ear. But Fleur almost didn't hear, there, between Katie and Hermione, trying to get Neville's attention, apparently unaffected by her allure, with the black messy hair, was “‘Arry…” she said.
Hearing his name, Harry moves his eyes from Neville and looked at her. He took a deep breath and stand quickly.
“Fleur…”.he said with a big smile.
For a second, Fleur lost the control over her allure, the effect was so strong that even some of the girls were affected, Neville actually got up and leave quickly, the other red haired boy started opening and closing his mouth. But Harry didn't even flinch, his smile stayed the same.
Fleur got hold of herself.
There, in front of her, appearing to look at her soul, were the wolf's eyes. Her dreams materialized in front of her.
With a quick movement she embraced him and felt immense relieved when he embraced her back.
Just a Reminder, this AU is a mixture of years 4 and 5, so harry is 15, hermione is 16 and fleur 17, I am also doing my best to improve both my spelling and my grammar, thanks to my betas!
I am a Illustrator, if you are interested in see illustrations for this story (Note that some are NSFW) you can go at you can go to: hpbayushi.tumblr.com/archive
Thanx to AWR and eragonflyer for beta reading and helping me!
Chapter 05
Harry, sitting at the Gryffindor table folded the letter he just read. Bertrand had delivered it and flew to the owlery to get some rest. He was very happy with Fleur's last letter. Her tone was way more tranquil, and he felt some new resolve from his French correspondent. He planned to write an equally happy and reassuring response. Harry didn't want to bother the girl with his problems, like Ron and the other student’s behavior, it was better for her to concentrate on the training. He planned to have the letter done for the big owl to take back with him, but Hermione’s exasperated voice behind him said otherwise.
“Harry James Potter, what is this history of you fighting Ron over me?”
“I see the gossiping central got a hold of you…”
Hermione sat down on his side. “What were you thinking Harry?”
“Sigh… first of all, I didn't fight over you, I know better… more like we fought about you amidst other things…”
Hermione raised an eyebrow. “Harry, I don't know what to say… but that is not an excuse to behave like thug!”
“Well, maybe when you feel comfortable, you can tell me what happened between you two.” she bit her lip, taken by surprise. “It’s not your fault anyway, Ron was being his usual selfish and jealous self, and maybe I really deserved it” finished Harry.
“Why would you say that?” Hermione asked.
“Because I’d rather spend my time with you” Harry answered, hoping that the girl didn't catch his blushing. “Anyway, I talked to Daphne” he tried to change the subject. “I think she will agree, I also would like to include Neville, Angelina, Katie and Ginny, maybe Ron…”
“Maybe…”
“Do you really think it’s a good idea? I never taught anyone.”
“You teach me as much as I teach you sometimes Harry, I think it will work. We need to learn how to defend ourselves!”
Harry got up. “Well, I need to write a letter before Bertrand flies away, I will think about how to proceed with that too, talk to you later.”
Katie Bell was cautiously happy. She really liked Harry, more than he needed to know right now. And he was developing really fast, Maybe too fast.
She imagined what he could do for her family in the future. He was powerful and famous. And now one of them.
Maybe they would no longer be third class citizens and seen as dark creatures. They could even erase the stain people like that monster Fenrir Greyback left.
All while satisfying her own needs.
He only needed to learn and accept.
“Am I using him?” She tough. “No, I really like him; I really like to be with him. I will help him become the Alpha he can be”
“If he survives until then...” she concluded with sadness
Fleur finished reading the letter that came back with Bertrand. She had a smile on her face. How could one be so down on himself but so reassuring to others? What could have happened to him? His letter was all cheer, a true admiration of her resolve, and even a promise of a butterbeer if she found him worthy after they met in person. At this point that was improbable.
And more than that, Fleur was certain that Harry would help on the mission her father entrusted to her. Fleur was also pleased she would be able to offer some more light on his past It was clear by his letter that he didn’t know who the Delacours were. The witch was really puzzled by this. Why would his magical guardian never mention them?
She thought about her father, the heir of a rich and powerful family, with both relational and commercial ties to several other important magical families all over Europe, and even so he still chose to marry a part veela. He and his friends wanted to see the old world on fire. He told her this the day he asked her help. “Do I?” She wondered.
Her thinking was suddenly interrupted by a fast-moving mass of silver hair. “It is true?” Gabrielle asked in a high pitched voice. “You know Harry Potter?” Her sister had always been somewhat of a fan, she loved the silly Boy-who-lived book collection. Her smile was captivating and bright.
“I have been writing to him, yes” Fleur answered with a wink.
“Aaaaand?”
“Aren't you a curious little bird?” in response Gabrielle showed her best puppy face to Fleur. “Well… he seems to be kind and caring, more interested in hearing about you than talking about himself, a little shy, and naive, but really proud of his friends, what? Why are you looking at me like that?”
“Nothing, nothing…” Fleur caught the knowing smile on the younger girl's face. “Will you introduce us when we get on Scotland?”
“Of course I will, now, off to class!”
Daphne sat down at the back table in the library. The table was really becoming their meeting spot. Hermione was already there, reading a book about the history of the Wizengamot.
“You two are really going forward with this?” She asked Hermione.
“Yes, we are tired, Daphne. Aren't you tired of people like Malfoy? Your family is older and wealthier than his.” Daphne could hear the hesitation in her voice. This was not her territory; the Slytherin could hear the disgust in her voice talking about the terms. Poor Hermione, so naive about how the wizardry world worked.
“Your Slytherin impression is not very good, Harry did a better job…”
Hermione actually smiled at this. “Funny thing is that the hat wanted to put him on Slytherin, but he asked not to.”
“Really, why would he do that?”
“He and Malfoy had a conflict on the train, over me and Ron, and again in the boats. Even at eleven Harry was disgusted by the hatred displayed by Malfoy. Add to that Ron feeding him some prejudice against Slytherin and finding out his father was a Gryffindor and there you have it.”
Daphne though for an instant.
“That is actually good. It will be our starting point.”
Hermione looked at her, confused.
“We will feed Astoria with that story, leaving out his father part. She can spread it to the right people, and in a couple days the whole of Slytherin will know that the Boy-who-lived could had been one of us, if it wasn't for Malfoy. We lost all this fame, and the best seeker in a century because of him… even something small like that can go a long way.”
Hermione was baffled. “So, you will work with us?”
“Tell Harry the lessons will start as soon we can find a secure spot” Daphne said with a grin.
“Potter and his idiotic entourage have been stealing from my stock again…” Severus Snape exclaimed after entering the headmaster's office.
“And what makes you say that Severus” Albus Dumbledore replied, looking over his half moon glasses to the slim, greasy haired man in front of him. All those years of making potions in a dungeon were catching up to him. Snape looked at least ten years older than he really was.
“Lemon drop?”
“Who else would do it? They did it his second year, and are doing it again. Some mischievous plan to get more attention for sure” The professor responded as he waved his hand, dismissing the candy.
“I find it hard to believe Severus. as you may have noticed, Harry's dedication to his studies had improved substantially this term, and I believe Ms. Granger is significantly responsible for it. It seems the boy has finally realized that to excel in his studies is in his own best interests. I am sure he already discovered he will not be able to pursuit a career as professional athlete. Maybe you made some mistake at your last count?”
Snape looked at him with a sneer, offended by the suggestion. Dumbledore rejoiced in his own ability to make him lose his temper.
Of course, Albus Dumbledore knew exactly who was stealing from his professor’s stock. And for now, it suited his plans to have the impostor at the school, though under extreme vigilance. At least until he found the whereabouts of the true Alastor Moody. It would both keep Harry Potter on his toe, and be a source of information about Tom.
“If not for that, why have you summoned me, sir?” Snape asked.
“Oh yes, I would like to request you to double the dose on Harry's potion over the next lunar cycle, seems like we both underestimated the strength of the curse in such a powerful young man.”
Snape looked thoughtful.
“Sir, why are you doing this? This may poison the boy beyond reversal; I don't like him, but…”
“The alternative is way worse Severus. If we don't control it, we may end up with another Greyback, or worse. Also we can build his own tolerance to the curse, making him more able to control it.”
“But he can also lose control of himself in the process, becoming nothing more than a puppet”
“That is exactly what I hope” Albus thought to himself, but his answer to the man in front of him was different. “You underestimate the boy, Severus. He has already proved himself capable of great things.”
“Now, if you will excuse me, I need to supervise the preparations for our notable guests’ arrival, both domestic and from abroad. I heard Madam Dolores Umbrage has some quite high standards.”
Sirius got back on his feet, panting and sweating profusely. “Damn French heat. That was close, but not good enough, my mark was off by almost two seconds.”
He looked at the three people in front of him, they were some of his oldest friends and allies, people he let down once… Remus had an apprehensive gaze, Apolline looked beautiful and stoic, as always, and Jacques just appear to be amused.
“Again…”
“Are you sure Sirius?” Lupin asked.
“Yeas, I am serious”
All three of them looked at each other.
“Seriously? A Sirius serious joke?” Apolline with her musical laughter doubled up on the joke. This provoke and outburst of laughter from the three men.
“Yeah, I spent too much time in that hell hole. I am but a shadow of my older self. I need to be in shape to teach Harry. You saw him Remus; those years with the Dursleys took too much from him. The boy has all that raw power, but his wand work is shit, and he acts only by instinct. He will need to make up for all those lost years.”
“His lost years or yours?” Jacques asked?
“Humf, shouldn't you be at some boring political fundraising event right now Jacques?”
“Non, this iz more fun.”
“OK” Sirius said resolute, then took a deep breath. “Again!”
All three raised their wands at the same time.
Hermione was torn. At one side, her plan with Daphne was going well, over the last week, the rumors about Slytherin Harry had spread, even over to the other houses. The fact Draco had a black eye and broken nose no one could seem to fix also didn't help. Daphne was also quite busy building her connections with the upper year students.
Hermione also couldn't deny a certain satisfaction in seeing a woman taking power, even if slowly.
But the girls were not fooled; Malfoy would come back soon, and he would be ruthless, Daphne was specifically afraid for Astoria. The girls knew the Slytherin would have to do something bold and soon.
Harry was also quite dedicated to his studies, specifically ancient runes, which he seemed to have a natural talent for. He was making up for the lost time in a dedicated way that made her proud. Also gave her an excuse to spend time with him.
Ron on the other hand didn't even bother trying to talk to them anymore.
But Harry also traded letters with Fleur right up to three days before she left for Hogwarts. Most of the subject of the letters was just two friends exchanging experiences and for some reason that made Hermione nervous.
And then, there was Katie. Katie was beautiful, fierce. Her body was fit and she was not shy about it, she was a great player and that was a plus for Harry, and she mostly definitely was sexually active. Harry took long walks with her, sometimes an hour had gone by before they were seen again, smiling, the boy with even messier hair. Most people realized something was happening, how could a bushy haired bookworm like her compete? But Hermione also had other suspicions.
Katie was also cursed. She must be.
But when pressed, Harry always said they were not together, just close.
But where did that leave her? She didn’t want the “friend” position anymore, her nights spent dreaming of Harry, only to waking up soaked, her hands finding herself in the silence of the bedroom. She had even done it in the library after Harry left one of their study sessions to meet Katie. The thought of the two of them together plus the almost empty library proved too much for the witch to resist. She came with her hands inside her knickers, under the table as images of Katie and Harry in a broom cupboard or the quidditch dressing room went through her mind. Hermione had to run and change her wet underwear thinking about how come she had the Gryffindor courage to do that, but not be able to talk to the person who was her best friend and crush for almost five years now.
With all that, plus Daphne’s problem on her mind, Hermione ended up having a busy week. She barely notice when the ministry officials joined the professors at the staff table.
“Hey, what are you laughing at?” Harry's voice brought Katie back.
“I was just thinking… next year's cup will be really unfair with both of us on the team. Damn, it’s going to be great!” she laughed again. “Can you imagine you and that blond git? He will never know what hit him”
Harry laughed. Katie could only admire him again. They were at the top of the astronomy tower, looking at the lake and waiting. The sex had been great, once again, and they both lay naked. For the first time, he appeared to be feeling comfortable being completely nude next her. She felt he trusted her.
He was slim, but incredibly defined for fifteen years old. He was a little short but not small in any other way, a true seeker through and through. She found she liked that. And then there were the scars. His life as a werewolf had just begun, but his body was already more marked than most men would ever get. There was the bite scar on his left shoulder, and the strange marks Katie suspect were from beatings on his back. There was also a big one on his right bicep, like a piercing instrument had entered there, and something like a burn mark around it. There was also an assortment of cut scars all over his upper body. She could now understand why trust was a rare commodity for Harry. But even more intriguing was his smell. For Katie, it was Harry's scent, and if she had to describe it would be something like the strong wind before a storm, mixed with… protection? It was a powerful combination, and she was somewhat relieved she was the only that could sense it. Or she would have had to fight off the other girls.
Katie knew he was not only her’s. If he was an alpha like the girl suspected, there would be others, and she actually liked it. A lot!
Looking at him and thinking all those things made her wet again, and Harry smiled at her, of course he could smell her arousal. “Damn, once he learned what that scent was, I imagine how awkward it would be to smell Hermione when she was around him.”
She got closer to him; she could also smell his own arousal. But there was something else.
“Sorry to ruin the mood,” Harry said, “but I wanted to ask you something…”
“Sure Harry.” She sat at his side, their bodies touching.
“These feelings of anger, this… rage… how do you cope with it? Sometimes I want to rip Malfoy's head off, specifically after what he did to Astoria. And sometimes I feel like I am really close to doing just that.”
“I totally understand…” Katie stayed in silence for a while, thinking. How she wished her Mom or grandfather were here, they could have done it much better than she. “I am a half-blood, and have gone to muggle primary school you know. Damn, I loved school. I think it’s because both humans and wolves are social beasts” she looked at him and found only interest in those eyes. “Well, that was until the day this kid entered our class. The boy was a prat. Picking on others, stealing food, beating on the weaker boys. My mom had alerted me to stay away, that I might have to leave the school if something weird happened if you know what I mean. I was nine at the time; I was starting to understand the division between wizards and muggles you know.”
She looked at the lake, the setting sun light reflecting on its gentle waves.
“But then, one day, he messed with a dear friend to close to the full moon, and I lost it!” Harry could hear the emotion on the girl's voice and embraced her, his protective instincts kicking in. Feeling reassured, Katie continued. “I hit him hard. I don't even remember. They said I screamed, and punched, and kicked and bit. When they finally got us apart, the kid was a bloody mess. The friend I was defending was afraid me. I was expelled. When I got home, expected to be grounded forever, but my family had other plans. First my grandfather, asked for me to tell what had happened. And then, he simply asked how it felt. I looked into his eyes and I couldn't lie, Harry. I said it felt... good.”
Katie looked at Harry's expecting the disgust look, but found only understanding.
“Then he said it was supposed to feel good, that I should not be embarrassed by that. The rage, he said, was part of me, and denying it would only make it grow, I should embrace and dominate it, not let it dominate me. I asked him why I have this thing in me. And his answer resonates with me until this day. He said that the rage was there not to hurt those we hate, but to protect those we love. To protect the pack.”
Harry looked deep into her caramel eyes, absorbing the words. Then he gave her a deep, slow, caring kiss.
When they parted, Katie debated with herself about telling him about being an alpha, love and hate. But they were surprised by movement in the sky.
A giant carriage, pulled by a great number of Pegasus appeared in the sky, directing itself to the castle. At the same time an enormous and somewhat sinister ship emerged from the depths of the lake.
“Well, that’s our cue” Katie said. “Our guests have arrived, and we really need a shower”
Fleur finished her food feeling really tired. It had been a six-hour trip from Beauxbatons to Hogwarts, on that dreadful carriage, and upon arriving, the students had been shocked with the news that they would be sleeping on the carriage.
Now sitting at the Ravenclaw table, she was annoyed that the only two boys not acting like idiots around her were a blonde seventh year, who sat with an Asian girl and a dark haired one who seems to be friends with the couple. She was not fooled, the boy, who she learned was named Cedric Diggory, was affected, but liked her girlfriend enough to pretend not to. As the other boy, Robert or something, he appeared to be much more interested in the Slytherin table and the Durmstrang committee. Weird lot that one, all boys, pretending to a variable degree of success not to be impressed or even interested. Men…
The other girls quickly realized what was happening, and withdrew from her as well, just like Beauxbatons, she was even trying to suppress herself.
So now Fleur was tired and feeling peeved.
At least Hogwarts was everything she had been told. The castle was enormous, imposing. The lake was truly beautiful when they arrived, the sun setting behind the forbidden forest. The entrance Hall was impressive, with all the giant statues, and the ceiling of the great Hall was as beautiful as the legends said. Fleur couldn't help but find the entirety of the castle a little cold. Beautiful, but somewhat oppressive.
After the school delegations were presented, with her giving her better fake smile (the same one she uses to give at the political parties at Delacour manor) the Beauxbatons students were sat down at the Ravenclaw table. How she wished it had been the Gryffindor's. Then an actually pleasant dinner was served. The elves had prepared a variety of plates, typical from all the three involved schools but it went all downhill from there.
The Goblet of Fire was presented, and as is common with many of those ancient magical items, it was less impressive than the legends made believe. Headmaster Dumbledore proceeded to present the tournament staff, starting with the ministry officials. Fleur didn't pay much attention, she barely hide her disgust when the small toad like woman with terrible fashion sense was presented, then he moved to present madam Maxine and the Durmstrang headmaster and finished explaining the tournament participation rules. After that all students were liberated to interact or go back to their common rooms.
The two Ravenclaw girls in front of her simply stood and moved to another place on the table, Fleur sighed.
“Come on little bird” Regine said coming closer to her. “It is not that bad…”
Fleur looked at her with a smirk.
“Here, let me do something to cheer you up”
“And what would that be?”
Let's meet my cousin” Regine said standing. Fleur promptly understood, and followed her to the Gryffindor table.
“Fleur, this is my cousin, Angelina Johnson” Regine said in English, gesturing at a tall, athletic girl, probably their own age, with a wide smile.
“it 'ez a great pleasure finally meeting you” Fleur said politely, giving the tall girl a kiss on the check.
“Likewise, Reg has told me many good things about you, here, let me introduce you to my friends.” She gave her a knowing smile that made the French girl blush.
Around the table, Fleur notice the boys looking at her again. Even suppressing the allure, it wasn’t hard to notice how they were affected, most went instantly silent, making the girls aware that something was happening. A red haired boy some places up front seemed particularly affect, looking at her with dazed eyes. “Not again…” she thought.
Angelina rolled her eyes and said. “This silent git over here is my boyfriend Fred, and the other one is obviously his brother George, congratulations, you managed to shut then up, Alicia and I are trying to do this for a year now” she said with no anger in her voice, pointing to the other girl on the left of the twin brothers, “this is Katie” she moved along, pointing at a beautiful black haired girl laughing at yet another silent boy, but this one was looking down at the table. “The other girl is called Hermione” she said in a really low voice as if trying not to get attention. Hermione got her eyes up and smiled at her, there was Harry's best friend, the one he talked about with great care on his letters. “And there, in the middle of then” Angelina said in her ear. But Fleur almost didn't hear, there, between Katie and Hermione, trying to get Neville's attention, apparently unaffected by her allure, with the black messy hair, was “‘Arry…” she said.
Hearing his name, Harry moves his eyes from Neville and looked at her. He took a deep breath and stand quickly.
“Fleur…”.he said with a big smile.
For a second, Fleur lost the control over her allure, the effect was so strong that even some of the girls were affected, Neville actually got up and leave quickly, the other red haired boy started opening and closing his mouth. But Harry didn't even flinch, his smile stayed the same.
Fleur got hold of herself.
There, in front of her, appearing to look at her soul, were the wolf's eyes. Her dreams materialized in front of her.
With a quick movement she embraced him and felt immense relieved when he embraced her back.
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