Chapter 3: Awards, Electives and Disagreements

Harry stepped into an empty classroom. He called Dobby and Dobby sealed the room. He could see the giant squid up to its usual antics and the many students out and about the castle grounds, the weather is seemingly pleasant for a walk and there are no exams. Despite the pleasantness visible to him, he had no wish to walk outside. He needed some time to think.

Dobby watched his master in silence, knowing that there is something bothering him. But Dobby did not insist on knowing. No, he understands that there are some secrets better left unsaid within the castle walls of Hogwarts. Hogwarts maybe considered the safest place in Magical Britain; however, she also hosts many an inopportune ear. Furthermore, he knows that there are some secrets are best left unsaid. A former Malfoy elf would know very well the danger of secrets.

Harry spent ten minutes staring out into the distance. I understand that I must reign in my anger before it clouds my vison of what truly is important. That does not mean that I will easily let go the pain and the sense of betrayal. To neither forgive nor forget. Well at least I can afford to forgive at certain times, but never forget. Harry drew his gaze away from the window and to his elven companion. He smiled, "Thank you for staying with me Dobby and not insisting on knowing, that means a lot."

"Of course, Master Harry. Dobby knows Master Harry will tell Dobby eventually,"

He chuckled and gently replied, "In due time Dobby, but for now I need your help with a few tasks. I am not sure what you can do, but I will show a list of tasks and you can point to which ones you can do," he took out the parchment with the tasks he wrote earlier in the morning. He gestured Dobby to sit beside him and the diminutive elf leaned in after seating himself to his right to take a better look at the tasks.

After a couple of minutes of consternation, Dobby pointed out, "Dobby can buy things for Master Harry from anywhere, even Knockturn Alley. Most vendors do not care who they sell to, other than the size of their pocket. Dobby can also help Master with Gringotts sir. All Master Harry needs to give Dobby is the Key. Dobby can take master's key from your trunk."

Dobby pointed to the first task, "Dobby can hide Master Harry's magic from the Ministry sir. That is how many rich pureblood children use magic in the summer sir. Another way sir would be to be in a place with lots of magic. The Ministry cannot tell who is doing what when there is a lot of magic."

Bloody hell! My life would have been a hell of a lot easier if I had Dobby last time around.

Dobby continued, "Dobby thinks sir should get a magical tent so Dobby can prepare meals. Dobby will help keep Bad Pig-tard Dursleys – "Harry chortled at the nickname "– away from sir. And, Dobby can find you a law wizard sir, but Dobby has a suggestion sir."

"What is it Dobby?"

Dobby stoked his chin with his bony fingers and explained, "Dobby thinks Master Harry should get a muggle-born or half-blood law wizard or witch who is married to a pureblood sir. Law wizards and witches can represent in both the muggle world and magical world. Since Master Harry lives in the muggle world as well, you should have a retainer who is familiar with the muggle world. If the witch or wizard is married to a pureblood, they will have a much better idea of how the magical society works Master Harry Potter sir."

Harry's eyeballs widened at Dobby's rationale. Dobby watched closely for his master's reaction with a hint of nervousness. Truth be told, he went and asked a few people in the know how. Dobby knew that his Master Harry Potter sir is going to great things; therefore, he needed legal protection. The first thing Dobby did this morning was to find information on who best to represent him.

Harry gave the elf a grin and exclaimed, "Dobby you are amazing! Can you please find someone who you think is suitable?"

Nodding furiously and blinking away his tears, Dobby replied, "Yes sir! I will Great Master Harry Potter sir!"

Harry groaned, "Must you always call me that? You were doing such a good job not calling me that!"

Dobby pressed back with a hint of mirth, "Great and Wise Master Harry Potter sir said Dobby can refuse sirs orders, so Dobby refuses to not recognize your greatness!"

Harry slammed his faced onto the table and then laughed. Dobby gave him a sheepish grin. Harry still had a few topics he needed to address with Dobby. Facing the elf and looking him in the eye, Harry said," Dobby, I want you to know that if you are going to be my right hand man, you need to call Voldemort by his name."

Dobby flinched, and replied weakly, "Master Harry Potter sir, Dobby understands that. But Dobby remembers how Dobby lost his parents sir. Dobby lost his father and mother to V-V-Voldemort sir. My parents were Malfoy elves sir, and in a fit of anger, the monster murdered my parents in front of me sir. Dobby remembers the day he lost his parents well sir," his body was wracking with shivers at the mere mention of the memory.

Harry felt a pang of guilt for pressing the poor elf. Well Dobby you and I both are orphans of war. He gently drew the elf for a hug. He softly toned," I am sorry Dobby. That was rude for me to be that blunt about an issue that clearly troubled you. If saying Voldemort frightens you, call him by his real name, Tom Marvolo Riddle," seeing Dobby nod, He moved on to his next topic.

"Dobby not to be rude again, but how come you are much different than before you were bonded to me?"

Dobby enthusiastically replied with a smile in his face, "No sir, it's not rude at all sir. Dobby thinks it is Master Harry Potter sir's magic. The magic Dobby felt during the bonding ceremony was not uncomfortable like the usual magic elves feel during the ceremony sir. No, this magic was warm and comforting sir. Dobby thinks sir's magic improved the ceremony. Dobby has gotten more powerful and intelligent as a result sir," by the time he was done the exuberant elf was jumping up and down with absolute joy written all over his jolly face.

The infectious energy that that Dobby radiate warmed Harry's heart. Every time I see Dobby, it confirms how great the decision to bind him was. Thank you, Death, for that piece of advice. Looking at the clock in the classroom, it nearly seemed to be lunch time. He had two more things to get out of the way.

"Dobby, can you make yourself some clothes for yourself. I don't want you to just wear some rags. I am not giving clothes to free you, but because I don't want my friend wearing rags."

Speaking of rags, I got to do a wardrobe change as soon as the break begins. Since I am about to scare the Dursleys into submission, I doubt I must worry about them browbeating me into giving them money.

Dobby looked thoughtful and then his face lit up. He nodded back at Harry. Receiving the message, Harry asked, "Dobby when is your birthday?"

"June 28th sir. Why ask?"

Birthday party in two days for you. That's why.

"No reason," Harry replied a little too fast. Dobby just narrowed his eyes and let it go with a sigh.

"Is there anything else sir?"

"No Dobby, thank you very much for your help today."

"Your welcome sir. By my leave, Great Master Harry Potter sir," Dobby impishly grinned as he popped away. Harry sighed for what seemed like the hundredth time today. He exited the room and headed towards the Great Hall. He then recalled his brief mess-up with Dobby regarding Voldemort's name.

I guess that name means more to people than just a forbidden name. To many, Voldemort is the physical manifestation of everything they have feared and continue to fear. Though I loathe to admit it, this maybe one reason why people of the magical society were hesitant to believe either me or Dumbledore. They might have felt that the two of us spat on their fears. Granted that the Ministry manipulated the public opinion, that does not mean there is no truth to my hypothesis. If anything, it provides evidence proving it to be true.

He was interrupted from any further musings when he heard a sound of a throat being cleared. He looked back to see the Weasley Twins facing him bearing unusually solemn countenances. Two sights I need to get used to, Fred being alive and Twins bearing serious expressions. Although, I doubt I will ever get used to the latter. Harry knew what they were about to do. After all, they did the same last time around. He smiled, "What can I do for you two gentlemen on this lovely day?"

Years of playing quidditch and knowing them helped Harry tell the two of them apart. If one looked closely, they would see subtle physical differences between the two. The giveaway for Harry is their noses. Fred has a slightly pointed nose, while George has a

fuller nose. Without displaying any of the usual Weasley Twin antics, Fred started, "We just want to thank you for saving our sister. She means the world to us and knowing now about what happened to her, it pains us to know what she went through over the last year."

George added with a slightly pained tone, "We didn't check on her over the last year. We should have been better brothers and because of our stupidity, we almost lost a sister. If it were not for you, who knows what might have happened to Ginny."

The atmosphere was slightly heavy, Harry could see a myriad of emotions flickering back and forth. Harry knew that being downtrodden would not help Ginny recover. She needed her brothers to be strong right now. Harry took a step forward and placed a hand on each of their shoulders and firmly explained, "Fred, George there is no need to thank me. I would have helped save anyone regardless of who was down there. But you cannot let your past mistakes take hold in your heart. Your sister needs her brothers to help her recover from this. She needs her brothers to be there for her, hold her when she cries, laugh with her when she needs a laugh and your support while she heals.

"Though remember if you tower over her protectively over her, she is only going to push you away. If you leave her alone without support, she is going to resent all of you. If you push her too hard, she going to ignore you. Just be there for her and remember you will make mistakes, but as long as you let her know you love her, all should be fine," he finished with a smile at the awed faces of the duo.

George was the first to gain his wits, "Thank you Harry, your advice helped set our heads straight. I am ashamed at how much better you are at this. You are younger than us for Merlin's sake!"

Harry held his smile, "Once you have lived my life, you will learn that there are things that a lot of people take for granted. The same things I cannot take for granted. I have no family; I had no friends until I came to Hogwarts. To me, since I have seen the world without all the things worth living and now that I finally have friends, I want to strive to hang on to what I already have," he patted them on the shoulders lightly, retracted his hands, and with a twirl he started walking towards the Great Hall. Without taking a glance at them, his back faced to the Twins, he said,

"Be yourselves, there is nothing greater that you can do for your sister."

The last time around he only mumbled some words together. By no means was his reply then was as elaborate and profound as it was this time. He knew what he needed after his godfather's death after the Department of Mysteries debacle, he just watered down his advice to suit the current situation with Ginny. All anyone needs after a tragedy is the support from their loved ones.

Harry watched as the students started to settle into their house tables. Neville came into the hall a while later followed by Dean, Seamus, and Ron. They sat around Harry with Neville sitting across Harry and Ron sitting to his left. Neville asked, "Oh hey Harry, we didn't see you at the common room or the dorm, is there anything wrong?"

Harry shook his head and answered, "No, I just took a walk around the castle alone."

Neville nodded and decided not to press, even though he noted the sour mood when he left the Great Hall at breakfast. Ron looked to question him further, but he got distracted by a conversation about the upcoming Quidditch season by some of the upper years. Just about when everyone was gathered at the hall, the doors opened, and the petrified students were let into the hall. Pindrop silence pervaded the Great Hall and all heads snapped towards the entrance. Harry Potter stood up and spotted his best friend. He did not hold himself back, unlike the last time; he broke into a run with a silly smile all over his face, he wanted to let his best friend know how much he missed her. Even if he came back in time this morning, he still felt the raw sense of happiness at seeing her healthy again.

Hermione watched as the charging form of her best friend cross the distance between them rapidly with wide eyes. His overflowing happiness at seeing her, brought tears to her eyes. Madame Pomphrey discreetly told her that Harry was her regular visitor and gave her a knowing smile as she walked away. To see actual evidence of his affection stunned her and did things to her heart she thought was not possible before.

Time seemed to stop at that very moment, her face flushed a very beautiful shade of red. He then did what she thought was impossible for one Harry James Potter. He initiated a hug. He pulled her to him and twirled her around, and she could not help giggling. Giggling! The Hermione Granger, giggling! As he stopped his twirling, he drew her for a very tight embrace, and she unconsciously leant her head on his shoulder. Has he gotten slightly taller? She took in the myriad of sensations she was feeling and a maelstrom of emotions running through her. Before they pulled back, she reached forward and planted a kiss on his cheek, and it was his turn to an iridescent shade of red. She felt satisfaction at being able to get a reaction from him and at the same time felt abashed that she showed intimacy in front of everyone in the Great Hall. She looked over to Professor McGonagall, prepared to see her disappointment at the two of them; instead, what she saw was a slight smile and a knowing glance directed at the two of them, quite similar to the look Madame Pomphrey gave her earlier.

Harry on the other hand could care less about anyone around him, other than Hermione. He did not hear the wolf whistles by the Twins, the cheers from the rest of the hall, the morose expressions by some of the Slytherins, the distant look on Snape's visage, the smile that never reached the calculating gaze of the headmaster and the elation of the head table. Nor, did he notice the change in hand of gold between Professors McGonagall and Sprout. He just felt elation at her kiss on his cheek, an emotion that felt foreign to him rose in his chest. Still grinning like a loon, he took her hand and whispered, "You're back."

Overwhelmed with all the emotions around her, she just nodded. While she was still dazed, the Headmaster stood up and clinked his glass thrice, and the rest of the students started to gather themselves again. Harry, while still holding her hand, led her over to where the rest of their year were seated. He helped her take a seat and then sat next to her. It was then he noted several things, Neville giving him a smirk, the Twins reenacting their little episode, Ron wearing a frown, and the smiles on the rest of the housemates.

Hermione leant in and said, "You two did it, you two solved the pieces of the puzzle! I am so proud of you," a lovely smile gracing her features.

Harry shook his head and countered, "If it wasn't for you, we would have been lost. I am so sorry that I was not there to help you," his tone laced with a hint of remorse.

Hermione reached out and squeezed his hand. As she was about to say something, the door to Great Hall opened once again to reveal Hagrid. The Gryffindor's burst into cheers followed by Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws. Hagrid gave a small bow to the Hall and walked towards the head table. As got to where Harry was seated, he stopped and emotionally said, "Yer saved me there Harry, yer parents would be right proud of yer. Thank you," Harry got up and gave his giant friend a hug. Hagrid then walked back to the head table and took his usual seat.

The Headmaster got up once again. "Yes, all is well again. Our students have been healed from our petrification and our friend Hagrid has been released from Azkaban and he is back among us once again. Though, I would remiss my duties if I do not take this opportunity to thank the ones responsible for ending this tragedy. For uncovering the secret of the Chamber of Secrets and ending the Slytherin's Monster, as the Headmaster of Hogwarts, I would like to present two Special Services Awards to Harry Potter and Ronald Weasley," and with that, the Great hall exploded once again into a cacophony of cheers lead by the Gryffindor. However, Harry sat silently for a minute. A thought, then appeared in his mind and an odd glint appeared in his eyes. Hermione, who was the only noticed his change, narrowed her eyes.

Harry Potter stood up and walked to the center of the Hall, not far from where he was seated. He then glanced at the general direction of the head table and he made sure to not make any eye contact with both Dumbledore and Snape. He waited till the noise died out. After noticing that Harry Potter was standing in silence in the middle of the hall, the rest of students quietened quickly in anticipation of the next sequence of events.

Harry took a deep breath and exhaled. Here goes nothing. He schooled a neutral expression and spoke, "Thank you Headmaster for your recognition. However, it would be remiss my duties as a fellow student and a friend to not recognize two people who contributed greatly in helping secure the lives of our students at Hogwarts. They are Hermione Granger and Neville Longbottom."

Looks of surprise were directed at Harry, and he even heard the scoffs of others. Surprisingly, some from his own house. Not like that bunch were any good with anything. Demean those who contribute to the wellbeing of society, while not recognizing that the reason why they are alive could be pointed to contributions of the very people they spit on. He cleared his throat and continued

"Neville Longbottom has worked tirelessly over the last year or so working with Professor Sprout in making sure that the Mandrake Restorative Draft can be made. As Professor Sprout can attest to," he took a pause to nod at Professor Sprout, who in turn nodded back with a hint of respect and happiness, he continued, " much of Neville's work was beyond the curriculum of a second year. After all, handling adult Mandrakes is hazardous to even the most accomplished Herbologists. To that extent I must thank Professor Sprout and Neville to help cure my best friend. For his contributions, I ask you to award a Special Services Award to Neville," he glanced at Neville and smiled at the dumbfounded expression on his face.

Turning to look back the head table he noted several expressions. Many of the staff supporting expressions of approval. The look of subtle elation and pride on McGonagall's face, a look of approval from Madame Pomphrey, the unabashed tears of joy and the furious nodding by Professor Sprout, Professor Flitwick who was bouncing up and down in his seat, and Hagrid who was blowing his nose with a giant handkerchief. Harry to his dying day swore that he saw Hagrid's boogers land on Snape's greasy hair. Meanwhile, Snape and Dumbledore looked on without revealing any emotions.

He took a moment to let the room absorb what he said. He continued, "I would like to present three ways in which Hermione helped put an end to this madness. First, Hermione was the reason why we discovered the Slytherin's monster," much to his glee, he saw the grimaces and expressions of disgust and hatred on the faces of several children of Death Eaters and their supporters. Most amusing to Harry was the shade of purple that the Blond Ponce of Slytherin and Overall Waste of Magic seemed to sport. He did note the hints of admiration directed towards him from the more neutral families. Another little note to self to be shelved for another time.

"You see, just before she was petrified, she found the identity and how the monster was using to petrify its victims. However, before she could use the information in a meaningful way, she was petrified along with the Ravenclaw Prefect Ms. Clearwater. She hid the necessary information in her palm the same moment she was petrified, leaving a vital piece of information for us to find.

"And that brings to second point of why Ms. Granger should receive the award. If she did not take the precautions she did, Ms. Clearwater would have died," several eyebrows rose at this and murmurs spread throughout the hall. Harry saw from the corner of his eyes many Ravenclaws asking Ms. Clearwater the same question, her nod proving the truth of Harry's words. Dumbledore furrowed his eyebrows for a second before schooling his usual grandfatherly demeanor, a change that did not go unnoticed to Harry Potter.

"Finally, Ms. Granger aided Mr. Longbottom in finding necessary reading material that would help supplement his work with the Mandrakes, a fact that Mr. Longbottom confided with me after our visit to the Hospital Wing when we visited her," he turned his gaze towards the Headmaster, while making sure he avoided eye contact. He paused for a few moments and continued.

"Headmaster you have reiterated that at the end of the day, it is about the choices people make. I would like to add that great wizards and witches choose what is right over what is easy. Neither Neville nor Hermione needed to be involved at all. They chose to do what was right by their own initiation. By inference, that marks them to be a great witch and a wizard. Thus, if Hogwarts is to award me for ending the monster, then much credit must be given to all those who supported me in the process. With that I rest my case," and Harry stood silently and closed his eyes, absorbing the various sounds of the Great Hall that once again burst into a standing ovation at Harry's words.

He knew that even Snape knew not to berate him right now, his public opinion is at a high and furthermore Harry just presented a case for rewarding his friends, the very ones who did a great service to Hogwarts. His words resonated with the rest of the student body, and the message was profound yet simple. To lead is not to assume accolades and none of the responsibilities. To lead is to assume responsibilities and to uplift the lives of those around you while giving due credit to those who deserve it.

Before the any further queries were raised, Dumbledore cut in, "Students remain seated, the staff shall leave the hall to discuss the amendment to the awards that Mr. Potter presented. Prefects please rise and maintain order within the hall. Mr. Potter you may take your seat," with that many of the staff were quick to follow the words of their Headmaster and followed him out of the Great Hall, not before throwing various looks of appreciation at Harry Potter and the aforementioned duo.

Prefects stood up and started maintaining order within their respective houses. Nonetheless, no prefect approached Harry Potter, as he remained standing at the center of the hall with his eyes closed and arms clasped behind his back in silence. No one dared to, not even the most stringent followers of the rules such as Percy Weasley. Waves of whispering and murmuring spread across the Great Hall, but Harry Potter stood stoically, not paying heed to any of the proceedings.

Hermione stared at the silent figure of Harry Potter, wide-eyed. This Harry Potter felt like her friend, but he was more expressive. He was protective but now he seems to have become much more. She could not put her finger around why though. Even without an announce magic leaking out of him, he cuts a powerful picture. This Harry is somehow more yet still he is Harry. A tinge of red flooded her cheeks when he spoke in praise of her. In praise of her character and strengths. Harry Potter felt like her best friend, but now he is much more formidable than she ever remembered; dare she say it, he cut much more imposing figure than she has ever seen Dumbledore display.

Neville being caught off guard is the understatement of the century. To say that his eyes were widened to epic proportions was an understatement. He felt numb, but for the first time in his life, Neville Longbottom felt a trickle of confidence. A trickle that will one day cascade into an ocean. Harry's belief and appraisal helped him find something he lost on the day of the torture of his parents. Something so lost that his crestfallen grandmother could never help find. Today, the Neville Longbottom will begin his ascend to greatness. Harry Potter just earned the undying support of one Neville Longbottom.

Ever since he saw Harry Potter by the fireplace with Neville, Ronald Weasley could not predict what his best friend anymore. He seemed more withdrawn and was seemingly casting judgement on people. When Harry ran towards Hermione, he was left speechless and rendered incapable of thinking any further. Harry Potter usually was not someone who likes to give or receive physical intimacy. Ever since he woke up this morning, Harry seemed to be judging him. For some reason, Ron felt as if he was failing to understand something obvious.

At the same time, he felt jealous. Jealous that Hermione was paying more attention to Harry by the glances she was giving him. Bitterness that he must share the glory he and Harry obtained with Hermione and Neville of all people. It is not like plants are that hard to take care of. Surely Harry Is exaggerating. Right? Oh well. Whatever it is, Harry will get over it. He will be best mates with Harry and forget Neville soon, and everything will be fine. Harry will get back to agreeing with him that studying is annoying and that quidditch is life. He will get back to fooling around with Ron. Most importantly, Harry will get back to sharing his glory with his best mate. Afterall, what use is a best mate if they do not share their glory. For now, he wanted to bask in a glory that not even his brothers achieved, not understanding that he was just riding the coat tails of Harry Potter.

After nearly twenty minutes of waiting, the staff made their way into the Great Hall after their impromptu meeting. Snape seemed a little more than miffed, while the rest of the professors seemed more than happy with the outcome. Harry understood that his request has just been met. All the teachers settled down and with that, students shifted their attention to the head table. Silence settled in the Great Hall and the Headmaster gestured the prefects to take their seats. He raised an eyebrow at the still standing figure of Harry Potter with his eyes closed, but he chose wisely to ignore him. He raised his voice and stated, "After listening to the appeal by Mr. Potter and much discussion among the staff, I have decided to follow through with Mr. Potter's recommendation. Ms. Granger and Mr. Longbottom will receive awards for Special Service to Hogwarts. On a further note, this is the first time in Hogwarts History that four such awards were given out and the first time that a muggle-born student received the award," with that many students stood up and burst into cheers, none louder and more obvious than the Gryffindors; especially the Terrible Two, the Weasley Twins.

Harry gave a small bow to the head table and walked back to his seat. When he got to the table, he was met with celebrating housemates, as if they had just won the house cup. Harry sat down next to the dumbstruck forms of Hermione and Neville. If he did not notice Hermione breathing, he would have worried that she somehow suffered a second bout of petrification. Well to be fair, she is going to be immortalized in the next edition of Hogwarts, A History. Harry chuckled and the duo broke out of their trances.

Hermione gathered her wits first and stammered out, "T-Thank you Harry. It was nice of you to ask for us to receive awards as well. You didn't have to do that you know?"

Neville soon added, "Yeah, thank you Harry."

"Nonsense, seeing you dumbstruck was well worth the effort."

Hermione mock glared and huffed with a hint of a smile, "Honestly Harry, here I thought you finally grew up."

Harry raised his hands in mock indignation, "Growing up! Why I have you know Ms. Granger that you are leveling a serious accusation on my person!" and Hermione just rolled her eyes at his antics.

Harry reached into his backpack and took out the notes he prepared for her. "I took extra notes in class for you. I know you would be upset for missing your classes and I thought about what I can do to help. So here are the notes I made for you."

She gave him a bright smile and pulled him to a tight hug. She let him go after a few minutes and then started going through the notes. She immediately noticed something, "Harry your handwriting much more readable than your usual scrawl."

Harry looked abashed, "Hey! My handwriting isn't that bad! Besides, I tried really hard. It should be absolutely gorgeous to you missy!"

Neville deadpanned, "It's not bad, it is bloody awful. The one time I was paired with you in Snape's class and I tried copy down something I missed earlier, could not understand a word of that horrid mess. I thought I read putting erumpet horn shavings in to one of the potions," Hermione giggled at Harry's mock outrage at Neville's reply.

Harry looked around for Ron, only to see his attention directed towards a group of Gryffindors who wanted him to tell the story of the Chamber of Secrets. Harry could not really hear what he was describing, but from reading his body language, Harry was sure Ron was making up a few white lies and throwing in some exaggeration. I wonder why I did not notice this the last time, was I so unwilling to give up my first friendship that I ignored all the gaps in his character? Horcrux or not, it feels like a splash of cold water suddenly thrown on my face.

Hermione noticed where Harry's gaze was draw to and sighed, "He did not even talk to me since I entered the Great Hall. Let's leave him be and let him approach us." The trouble for taking him out his moment of glory is not worth it right now.

A few minutes later when everyone calmed down, lunch appeared, and they dug into their food. Harry and Neville filled her in with the happening around the castle. He told her about the night Hagrid was taken to Azkaban and their encounter with the acromantula. Hermione berated him for his foolhardiness and Neville was utterly horrified at the thought of almost being eaten alive by a bunch of overgrown spiders. Not that he was afraid of spiders, he is an aspiring Herbologist, he must deal with insects much more gruesome than spiders. Well, at any rate it made sense why Ron had nightmares for two weeks straight. Harry did not give them the details of the Chamber of Secrets, retelling the details of that encounter out in the open was not a subject he was comfortable with. Hermione relented on that topic and let it slide for now.

After lunch he said goodbye to his friends, telling them he had a few things to do. Hermione looked like she wanted to press for details, but Neville prevented her from doing anything. Harry gave a sigh of relief as Neville directed Hermione away from Harry and towards the Gryffindor common room.

He had two tasks he wanted to accomplish before he went back to the Gryffindor common room. On his way down from the Room of Requirement, he spotted the broken Vanishing Cabinet in the first floor. He wanted to take the cabinet upstairs and try to see if he can start fixing the cabinet. Or, he could get Hermione's help with fixing the cabinet together during the summer. He was not allowing her to carry all the intellectual heavy lifting this time around. He reached the corner that he saw the cabinet.

"Dobby."

"You called Master Harry?"

"Could you shrink this cabinet down so we can take it to the Room of Requirement?"

A snap latter and an emerald haze later, a shrunken cabinet lay in front of him. He tucked the miniature cabinet in his robes and made his way into the Room of Requirement. He asked for a room that would help repair the cupboard and when he when inside the room, the room was filled with various books and tools. He reached out to read some book, they seemed to be books on runes and arithmancy of spatial magic. How the hell did that moron fix this? I know he did not take ancient runes. He must have lucked out. Afterall he was looking increasingly miserable as each day passed in his sixth year. Or he might have used Felix Felicis. That would explain his stroke of luck. No way did that Neanderthal fix this otherwise.

He then remembered that this would a good opportunity to do one other task in his list. He summoned Dobby and asked him to check if he can get the Sword of Gryffindor from the Headmaster's office. Ten minutes later, Dobby returned with the sword, apparently a Hogwarts house-elf told him that the Headmaster was out of school till later this evening. Alright, let's try to see if the Room would respond to this command.

"I need Rowena Ravenclaw's Diadem."

Lo and behold, the diadem materialized in front of him. Without thinking twice, he slashed the diadem apart with the sword. A black mass resembling Voldemort's wrath materialized and disappeared after a horrifying screech. Harry took a while to recover from that horrifying sounded emitted from the Horcrux. That is three down, four more to go. He wished for a table and pulled out his parchment and started writing down the observations he made today since he came back.

Half an hour later, Dobby appeared in front of him. He was wearing a three-piece emerald suit with a fitting dark green Fedora. His current outfit is vastly preferable to what Dobby wore in the previous timeline after being free. Somehow the outfit seemed to make sense on the elf. This outfit screamed of an elf of influence. Harry raised his eyebrow and questioned, "Hello Dobby, I see you made quite the wardrobe change. I love the new suit you got there."

Dobby proudly nodded, "Yes Master Harry Potter sir, Dobby wanted to get the best outfit that would maintain your good image while working for you sir. Also, Dobby watched The Godfather in the muggle world sir. Michael Corleone is Dobby's favorite sir."

Harry looked at the elf, amused by his antics. Wait how did he watch a movie? He inquired, "How did you come across that movie?"

"Dobby wanted to know how to play sneaky-sneaks in the muggle world, Dobby heard someone talking about The Godfather and about secrets sir. So, Dobby figured out he needed to watch the movie sir. Dobby snuck into his house, learnt how to play movies and watched it sir."

This gets more confusing the more he explains. I am not going press anymore. I will just pretend like understood and move on.

Harry just nodded and switched topics. He asked, "Dou you have anything for me?"

"Master Harry Potter sir, Dobby found you a law wizard sir. His name is Edward Tonks sir," Dobby exclaimed with his usual level of enthusiasm.

Color me surprised that he found Tonk's father as my future law wizard. Hell, I did not even know the man was a law wizard. But hold on, the bugger just watched a movie and he found me a lawyer, and we just talked about it not too long ago. Honestly, this does not make sense. But no one accuses house-elves of following common sense, I guess.

Harry slowly nodded and probed with a neutral voice, "Okay, and why do you think he is a good fit for me?"

Dobby pulled a piece of parchment from his pocket, he stood a little bit taller and read, "Edward 'Ted' Tonks, married to Andromeda Tonks nee Black and the father to Nymphadora Tonks, is a muggle-born law wizard who graduated from Hogwarts in 1973. They eloped right after their NEWTs and as a consequence of being married to a muggle-born, Andromeda Tonks was cast out from the Black Family. Mrs. Tonks is the estranged sister of Narcissa Malfoy and Bellatrix Lestrange.

"Edward Tonks apprenticed under Tiberius Ogden as his first foray into Wizarding Law. Tiberius Ogden is a well-known Warlock in the Wizengamot and was only five years older than Edward. The Ogden family is an old pureblood family, well known for impartiality and wealth; they of course are the primary owners of Ogden's finest.

"Impressed with his abilities, Tiberius made an offer to join his law firm a year later. Edward started off as a junior partner and quickly worked his way up. Within a span of five years, Edwards name was on the company name. The new law firm name is now Ogden & Tonks. The law firm made a bigger name after their efforts after the death of Riddle. They pushed for compensation from many Death Eater families for the damage they did, despite their supposed 'Imperius Curse' defense. They even succeeded on settling with noteworthy families such as the Malfoys.

"Edward Tonks is known as the one of the more influential muggle-born members of the Magical Society. He has hired several talented muggle-born students to his law firm and has consequently worked closely with Tiberius in ensuring the equality for all wizards and witches. It is in the best interest of the Ogden family to ensure that magical community grows, as they own the largest distillery of magical alcohol. With such a politically and economically powerful partner, Harry Potter sir will be able to get the best representation possible.

"Another reason why Dobby recommends him is because of his wife and daughter. His wife is currently a healer who consults with St. Mungos but also has her own private practice. His daughter is a trainee auror currently, and she graduated a year before sir entered Hogwarts. Nymphadora Tonks is currently considered to be one of the stars of the Auror Academy and is Master Auror Moody's personal apprentice. She has garnered the interest of Kingsley Shacklebolt to be taken under his wing after the academy. She has manifested a rare ability known as metamorphmagus, where she can change her appearance at will, a trait that used to be common within the House of Black. Fair warning sir: do not call Nymphadora by her first name. Dobby saw her hex another trainee nastily sir when he taunted her with her first name. Harry Potter sir will have inroads to the DMLE and a possible healer for Harry Potter sir. Finally, they are distantly related to you through your paternal grandmother and Dobby thought sir could do with better family. From what Dobby had seen, they are a good family sir."

Dobby folded the parchment and waited with nervous anticipation for his master's response. Harry Potter was impressed. The information that Dobby gleaned was much more comprehensive than he thought he would get from him. He nodded and smiled, "Good job Dobby. I think I am going to take your suggestion and try to get in contact with Mr. Tonks," Dobby gave him a huge smile and nodded furiously. He wrote a letter to Edward Tonks requesting for his services and setting up a potential appointment for an initial meeting. He then focused on another topic that was weighing on his mind.

"Dobby do you have a way to move the basilisk carcass from the Chamber of Secrets?"

Dobby thought about it for a second, and nodded, "Dobby can enter the Chamber of Secrets since Master Harry has entered the chamber. But Dobby cannot teleport with the carcass directly. Portkeys will not work in the chamber either. But Dobby can bring other people inside the chamber to render the carcass."

"Thank you, Dobby. All we need now is our law wizard to do his magic," Harry exclaimed. He finished going through the letter and making appropriate adjustments, he sealed it in an envelope. He had Dobby charm the letter to be only opened by Edward Tonks. He wrote another letter Gringotts asking for monthly bank statements. He was going to send the letter to Gringotts through Hedwig; however, the letter to Edward Tonks must be sent through Dobby. There is no telling what kind of mail direction wards are in place on his owl. If he were to take a guess, there is some sort of mail filtration on him. To think he did not receive a single piece of mail despite his status in the wizarding world seems a little unbelievable.

Looking around at the room, Harry requested, "Would it be possible for you to see if you can buy some of these books? I want to make a project out of fixing the vanishing cabinet over the summer. I am not too sure which of these books are the relevant ones, but if we can find about 10 books, I assume that would be fine. The other cabinet of this pair is in Borgin and Burkes, can you buy that one as well?" Dobby took out a parchment, wrote down his requests and nodded.

"Thank you, Dobby. Here is the letter to Mr. Tonks," Harry handed the letter to Dobby, who tucked it away in his suit and he flickered out of existence with a snap, crack, and a pop.

Harry stepped out of the Room of Requirement and walked towards the Owlery. As he entered the Owlery, his majestic snow owl glided gracefully onto his outstretched arm. After cooing and talking to Hedwig for a while, he gave her the mail to be sent to Gringotts. Harry watched as Hedwig flew into the afternoon sky and stood while she out of his sight. She was another death in vain.

For his second task, he made his way over to the Gryffindor Head of House office. He had electives to changeand relationships to improve. Once he came in front of the door, he knocked once. A familiar voice commanded, "Enter."

Harry entered the room. Frames of pictures and newspaper clippings with several alumni covered the walls. He spotted a picture of his parent's wedding close to the desk she was seated at. To left he saw three bookshelves covered with various books in different fields, but mainly had books relating to transfiguration. McGonagall's desk was orderly, but it looked well used with parchments and books ordered neatly on the table. In front of her desk was a high-backed chair, no doubt to make the visitor slightly uncomfortable. Or she might want to test their ability to transfigure. Something to surprise her with the next year. This is her away of appraising an individual. Anyone unable to transfigure the chair is not worthy of her attention. Anyone worthy of her attention is then scrutinized by the way they transfigure the chair. Kind of like a personality test I keep hearing in the muggle world. Ah! I know just the spell to use. Too bad I can't use magic today. She sat behind the desk, her eyes peering at him above her glasses, her nose and face dipped slightly low.

"Well Mr. Potter this is a wonderful surprise, take a seat. What is the occasion for your visit?" she said with her usual no-nonsense tone.

Harry jovially replied, "Good afternoon Professor! Before we begin, I was wondering if you would cast a softening charm on the chair please, it seems a tad uncomfortable you know. I am not allowed use magic for the day after the incident last night you see. Nurse's orders and all that."

McGonagall slightly raised her eyebrows. Without a word and an elegant flick of her wand, she transfigured the chair to a more comfortable one. A hint of a smile graced her features when the young Potter bounded over the chair and sat down, not squirming under discomfort at her gaze; unlike the usual students who walk in here or most anyone really.

Took charge of the conversation with his greetings and displayed the practical sense to apply the knowledge learnt in class, a solution fitting the knowledge of a second year. Elegant solution for the chair while he could not use his magic, which points to ingenuity. The confidence to ask for a more comfortable chair brings, plus a walk which did not betray false confidence. Holding a gaze that does not betray any emotions other than the smile on his face. Well done Mr. Potter. Confident, courageous, innovative and a thrown in with a hint of intelligence, an ideal Gryffindor indeed. No wonder the sword appeared in his hands.

He saw Professor McGonagall's expression warm up considerably. So, I was right. Next time got to impress her with my wand work. He smiled, "Professor, I am here to change my electives from Divination to Ancient Runes and Arithmancy."

Now her eyebrows rose further than the last time. She did not expect the young Potter to change those classes. His best friend, Mr. Weasley who is notorious for his lack of effort in class, she noted he influences Harry Potter greatly. One does not become an educator for forty years and not learn how to recognize patterns of behavior. She surmised that due Mr. Weasley's influence, while Mr. Potter provides adequate wand work, his theory work is just par even if he is friends with the brightest student of the year. Or that his parents were some of the brightest students she had the pleasure of teaching.

For Harry to take initiative and change his course sounds extremely promising to her. Added to the little display he put on today at lunch, her impression of Harry Potter rose a several notches, much like every other professor. Pomona would not stop crying and I doubt Filius lost the spring in his steps even by now. He probably is bouncing off the walls in his office as we speak, and poor Hagrid was going through handkerchiefs at the rate of knots. Well except for Severus, everyone else seemed pleasantly surprised by Harry Potter's actions.

Her smile widened and replied, "Certainly Mr. Potter, I will make the appropriate changes. I am glad that you changed your choices for electives. Divinations is quite a… ah, wooly subject. There is only one method to be successful in Divination, either you have the Gift of Sight or you do not," she paused slightly to let her words hang in the air, to establish a hint of authority back into the conversation. It would be unbecoming of her station to let her improved impression of the young Potter influence her conversation. She carefully probed, "Though, what prompted you to change your electives, especially when Mr. Weasley's choices have not changed?"

Without shifting in his chair or giving away any other signs of nervousness, he answered with a neutral voice, "When I came back from the chamber, I had two realizations. One, even as a sixteen-year-old, Voldemort mastered magic that most people dare not dream of. Based on the last two years, I know it is about time that he will return and come to finish what he started all those years. Starting with me. If I want to live past seventeen, I need to properly equip myself with magic. The best way to master magic is knowledge. The more I know, hopefully the longer I survive."

McGonagall's eyes widened at the brutally honest answer. She was taken more off guard at the nonchalance in which Harry Potter stated those words. Neither nervousness nor fear were present in voice in the duration of his answer. Nowhere in his answer did he even contain a hint of wanting to retaliate, just survive. Not knowing how to respond, she slowly asked, "And the second reason?"

Harry smiled brightly and continued, "To live professor. I want to live a life where I explore the potential of my life to the highest degree. After nearly dying for nearly two years, what if I finally die without leading a meaningful life. No, I will not have it. I will explore my limits magically, intellectually, mentally, and physically. I want to make sure I will not spit on my parent's graves as I live through my life. If I die sooner than my time, I can die with no regrets. If I survive the many trials in front of me, then with all my heart I can live a satisfying life with the greatest degree of freedom."

If the first answer gave her shock, the second caught her completely off guard. While the first answer was expected with all the circumstances around his life, the second one completely caught her off guard. A young child thinking about his death before he is even a teenager and he does so with the brightest smile. Where have we failed to let this young man already to start thinking of his death? Blinking away the tears in her eyes, she nodded. She could not hold the façade for long, she will be drinking tonight with her friends over this afternoon's revelations.

"Thank you for your honest answers Mr. Potter. I approve your course choices and I look forward to seeing your performance next year," her tone indicated the end of this conversation. Harry nodded and stood up.

"Thank you, professor," giving her slight bow, he walked towards the exit. As he reached for the doorknob.

McGonagall cleared her throat and said with a wide smile, "Mr. Potter, I and the whole heartedly approve what you did at lunch. You really are the best of your parents Mr. Potter. Take it from someone who knew them over their formative years and watched them grow into the great witch and wizard they were. You resemble your father's loyalty and flare, and your mother's intelligence and protectiveness. You have clearly inherited their noble natures. I look forward to seeing you graduate and be the great wizard you are Mr. Potter. I look forward to hearing your efforts till the day you die. Do come by my office if you ever want to ask about your parents. I am sure Professor Flitwick would appreciate a similar conversation. Afterall, your mother was a prodigy at Charms," I will do my best in ensuring your parent's sacrifice was not in vain.

Harry's eyes widened slightly. Have I impressed her so much that she changed her trajectory? To hear her say `to hearing your efforts till the day I die', she wants me to live a long life. To talk to her about my parents, she wants to ensure my wellbeing directly. The hint at Flitwick is for me to ask his support in preparing myself. Who best to prepare for a war of magic than a dueling master after all. She is taking a more active role in my life. I did not see this coming.

"One more thing Mr. Potter, I apologize for not believing you about the stone last year, the detention at the Forbidden Forest and my inaction at the Heir of Slytherin fiasco. I always wondered what I was thinking when I assigned you that detention," she had a faraway look when she mentioned that detention. Alarm bells went off in Harry's head. Another little note for later. I wonder if there is some other foul play at work here. If she is being sincere enough, it is only right that I reciprocate with kindness.

He gave her a smile, "I forgive you Professor. All of us make questionable judgements sometimes professor. As they say, there is no perfection in life. Is there anything else professor?" seeing her shake her head, he nodded back at her and left her office. Before he completely closed the door, he heard her sobbing loudly. I affected her that bad huh. Well professor, here is to new beginnings. Thank you, Death, for teaching me that there is no better way to influence people than to tell them the truth.

Harry walked towards the common room. It was going to be dinner in a couple of hours. He gave the password and walked into the common room. Surprising that I even remembered the password. He saw Neville and Hermione talking animatedly about something and Ron playing Wizarding Chess with Seamus. He walked towards Hermione and Neville, pulled up a seat next to them, and sat down,

Harry raised an eyebrow, "What are the two of you excited about?"

Hermione grinned, "Oh we were talking about using mandrakes in potions and their healing properties. Neville also mentioned several other plants that have potent healing abilities and which potions they were prominent ingredients of. I was thinking if we combined our skills, we can create more effective potions," she shot an exasperated look at Neville, "But Neville does not think he would do good in potions, Professor Snape terrifies him too much."

Harry looked in her chocolate brown eyes and mused, "You know, you must admit that he does target me and Neville unfairly in potions," You mean passing the blame of my mother's death onto the two of us. "Before you interject, observe carefully how he behaves, it is as if he blames us for doing something that we clearly had no part in doing. I am not saying he is not competent in his field, but I highly doubt that the man passes as a competent teacher."

"But Professor Dumbledore- "

"The Headmaster could not find the monster in the castle which you a second year did, the most brilliant second year of course," her cheeks tinted slightly, and Neville smirked that infernal smirk he seems to be fond of recently. He narrowed his eyes slightly in Neville's direction and Neville picked up, "If you picked up something that the Headmaster couldn't, don't you think that maybe he misplaced his trust with Snape? You do know that the man was a Death Eater, right?" Hermione gasped and shook her head at the implication of Snape's previous midnight wanderings.

Neville nodded with a serious look in his eyes, "There is always a chance that the Headmaster is wrong Hermione. You do not just become a Death Eater for the sake of being one. My Gran does not like that Snape is teaching at Hogwarts one bit and the greasy git has all the support of most of the pureblood families that supported Voldemort."

Neville's revelations made Hermione pause a bit before vehemently defending an authority figure. It does make sense, but clearly, we were wrong about Professor snape with the Philosopher's stone.

"What about the Philosopher's Stone, if he did work for you-know-who, shouldn't he help him with the stone?"

Harry gave her a wry smile. At least she is starting to think in the right direction. Harry took his time to reply, he needed to make the next statement he says more of a theory than a fact, even though it is. He finally he said, "Well think about it, how risky would it be to help Voldemort under Dumbledore's eyes. Remember, Voldemort had to enter the school himself to take the stone and his took his time to try steal the stone. Plus, he might be some sort of spy for both Voldemort and Dumbledore; he can't do either if he directly picked one person over the other." And planted a seed of doubt right there.

Hermione looked thoughtful for a second, she wanted to refute and say that the two of them are going down rabbit holes to confirm a theory. At the same time, she considered the possibility of their statements being proven true. If Harry and Neville are telling the truth, then there is some reason to doubt Professor Snape. She reluctantly conceded, "Okay, what the two of say does make slight sense," she saw the knowing smirks appear on their faces, and before they can add anything, she continued, "But honestly that does not mean that I can take your word directly, I am going to need enough evidence to convince me to your side," as a response she got two swift nods.

Well that went better than I thought. Not only did we undermine a professor, we also undermined the Headmaster, who was monumental in her decision to be in Gryffindor. Baby steps Harry Potter, baby steps.

At this point, Ron came over to join them. He asked loudly, "Hey mate, where were you? Been look for you everywhere."

Harry warily replied knowing that this conversation is not going to end well, "I met with Professor McGonagall. I switched my electives from Divination to Ancient Runes and Arithmancy."

He surveyed the group for reactions. Hermione, of course was ecstatic; Neville bore a pensive expression and Ron looked like he was going to pop a vein. As expected, Ron as the first to put his foot in his own mouth.

"Oi mate, you're being ridiculous. I thought I said Divination is an easy O, so we should do divination. Come on mate, let's go change it again. Can't have you become a bookworm now," and Ron did the ill-advised move of reaching out to grab Harry's hand. Harry just slapped Ron's hand away. He stood up to his full height, took a couple of steps closer to Ron and squared his shoulders. He levelled a steely glare at Ron. He felt Dobby pop into the common room, still invisible and ready to protect his master.

Even if Ron had a couple of inches on Harry, Ron suddenly felt like a little child. Neville wore a stoic expression and Hermione looked worried. Before she could interject, Neville stopped her for the second time today.

He leant into Hermione's ear and whispered, "There was something wrong today between the two of them. I don't know what the issue is, but they need to solve it between them," Neville wisely decided not to add his observations over breakfast and lunch, it would only be throwing erumpet fluid into fire. Hermione hesitated slightly and remained seated. She decided to watch and wait until things escalated more. Neville nodded and returned his gaze towards the two of them. Several students within the common room turned to see the sudden activity. Silence pervaded the room.

Pieces fell into place for Harry Potter. In the first year, when they first discovered the Mirror of Erised, Ron's inner desire was to be the Head Boy and the Quidditch Captain. His greatest desire was recognition and fame. Recognition and fame were not what Harry sought. What Harry sought were belonging and family. Harry would trade every bit of gold and fame he has for what Ron has, a loving family. Even if their desires were different, that should not be a point of contention for either boy. Different people desire different things in life. People desire what they lack, not what they have. Harry was not necessarily picking a bone over his desires. No, that was not what spurred Harry's ire. It was Ron's commitment and conviction, or lack thereof.

Over the years that Harry has known him, Ron has not even put in the effort to be the Head Boy, not even the prefect position that so unjustly received. You could say he put effort at quidditch. But all that effort is worthless if he did not act on his convictions and beliefs. Case and point, the game against Slytherin. He let the singing get to him and crush his beliefs. Even the horcrux hunt, as soon as his belly was filled, he returned. Harry will not let a lackluster human being affect his choices this time around. He is no longer the weak fool he was. He went through hell and back with a soul sucking leech in his person. He is much stronger as a person than he was before. If Ron wanted to still be his friend, he must be the one to give a proper effort and remain true to his convictions.

After few minutes of silence, Harry spoke softly. So much so that he could be mistaken for whispering, "Ron, I made my decision based on what I want to do with my life. You can't force me to do what you want to do. I want to be a better wizard. I want to make sure I live past seventeen and there is nothing you can say to change my mind. If you want to remain friends, you can respect my choice."

Ron scoffed and taunted, digging a deeper grave, "How are you going to live if you become a bookworm? One Hermione is enough for the group," Harry saw Hermione drop her head slightly from the corner of his eyes. Harry gave Neville a subtle look, Neville responded with a nod and moved closer to Hermione and took her hand. Harry gave a thankful glance at the Longbottom Heir.

The youngest Weasley male, unaware of the shifting dynamics continued, "It is not like runes and arithmancy are going to help you survive. You need to live mate! Classwork is not going to save you," he added smugly as if he already won the argument.

Harry just raised an eyebrow and asked, "Are you done? Because that was the most flawed reasoning I have ever heard! First of all, I do not even know if you noticed that you insulted my best friend," Ron looked to object at that, but Harry silenced him by raising his hand, "Oh get off your high horse. You think you are my best friend, you were a friend, but after listening to dig your own grave a few minutes ago, I am quite sure Hermione is my best friend," he saw her spirits perk up slightly, and that damn Longbottom giving him a slight knowing smile.

Harry continued, "It was her thirst for knowledge that allowed us to find the monster and finish it. Not only did she find the monster, she gave the clue to save your sister. One would think that you would grow a brain and start realizing the truth. Besides what I survived last night was through pure luck and nothing else. I do not want to survive based on luck ever again. I want to have a say when my life is at stake.

"I want to have more options in my hand and not burden Hermione whenever I have a problem or plan some harebrained scheme. Additionally, it was Neville's knowledge on herbology that helped save many petrified students, some of whom were Gryffindors," he slowly drew his hand around the common room, whose attendants were now looking at the ongoing proceedings with awe and trepidation. Through the whole speech, Harry was surprisingly calm and that unnerved everyone within earshot. The Weasley Twins and Percy were looking on somberly, clearly not happy with their younger brother. Percy felt more than a little insulted with Ron's insinuations, thus he let Ron keep digging his grave.

Ron turned a shade of red brighter than his own hair. He snarled back, pointing his finger at Neville and Hermione, hammering another nail to his coffin, "Oh, so they are the ones who put you up to this. Don't you see? They don't want us to be friends. First, they ask you to share our glory with them. We went down to the chamber not them. Now they want to get rid of me!" as if he had another bright idea, he sagely nodded, and the Weasley smugly stated," I know what they did, they potioned you with something! Hermione is smart enough to make some and Neville knows where to get the stuff. Why else would you want to hang out with a squib and a book worm."

The whole common room sucked in a breath; they could not believe the words out Ron's mouth. At this point, Hermione covered her mouth and tears started to flow down her cheeks. Neville looked furious, so much so that he was clenching his fist in preparation to punch a hole through the Weasley.

Harry looked at Ron in disbelief, who took that as a chance to continue his tirade, "Don't you see, we need to get you Madame Pomphrey right way! Who knows that the potions will do to you? Or worse make you do things you don't want to do. Let's go I will forgive you after she cures you," once again Ron reached out to take his hand, and Harry slapped him down much more forcefully this time. What on earth is this living food stain going on about.

Harry took a moment to gather himself. He closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths. No one in the common room moved, but the prefects and older students were ready to intervene at a moment's notice. He opened his eyes and slowly spoke, his smooth voice laced with authority and disdain, "Ronald, do you know how ludicrous your theory is? First, Hermione was in the Hospital Wing till lunch and I was not in the common room for a good part of the day today. Your brothers would attest to me being alone," the Twins nodded solemnly, depicting the truth of his statement, "and I came back to the common room since breakfast for the first time today. Pray do tell how they would even concoct such a ridiculous plan?

"Another thing, there is no our glory," he directed his gaze towards the rest of the common room, and claimed, "The only one who entered the Chamber of Secret, killed the monster, and saved Ginny Weasley was me. I do not know what lies he has been telling," pointing to the sputtering figure of the youngest male Weasley, "but it may as well be lies. Ron was with that fraud Lockhart, whose memory charm backfired right back at him," murmurs arose at the end of the statement, it seemed like Harry was right, Ron was mixing falsehoods and glorifying the tale in his favor. Before Ron was about to do anything rash, the Twins grabbed him by both his arms and dragged him away.

Percy wore an apologetic expression directed towards the three of them, as he walked closer to Harry. He stiffly said, "I apologize Ms. Granger, Mr. Longbottom and Mr. Potter, for that slight on your character by my brother. I will write a letter to my parents right away; such a misdemeanor must be reported to them right away and I hope that they take appropriate actions. I and my brothers would push for an appropriate punishment over his lack of decorum. Would you like me to push for any formal disciplinary measures here at Hogwarts?"

Harry looked at the other two, seeing them shake their heads in denial, Harry replied in a formal tone, "Thank you Mr. Weasley for your kind words. We do not believe that any formal action is necessary as of right now. However, if he is to act out of hand again, we will move to more formal measures," Percy was caught off guard by the formal tone but understood what Harry did. He treated Percy as an equal and dealt with the problem like two adults. Percy nodded appreciatively at him and said, "If that is your wish Mr. Potter, then so be it. I thank you for not responding with any physical or magical means," Harry mutely nodded, and Percy gave a short bow and retreated into another corner of the common room to speak to the other prefects.

Harry walked towards Hermione, sat down next to her, and put an arm around her shoulders. She leant against his shoulder and sniffled slightly. Neville pulled back his hand and gave a subtle nod and walked away. Neville, the master of subtle social signs.

After a few minutes, Hermione murmured into his shoulder, "Do you really mean that I am your best friend?"

He smiled and held her closer, "With all my heart, and I was not saying that to taunt Ron. You have always been there for me."

Hermione looked up at his face and met his gaze with her chocolate brown eyes. She gave him a watery smile, "You seem different, but you are still Harry. Except a lot better."

Harry chuckled, "My best friend was petrified, and I just slew a thousand-year-old monster. Life for Harry Potter does change when he goes through a few troubles here and there."

She swatted his arm and leant in closer, and they held their silence until Neville came and mentioned that it was dinner time. He got up and offered his arm and she shyly took his offer. He then walked in silence with her to the Great Hall walking in hand in hand, with that damn Neville giving him knowing looks and sly smiles every time he looked back. Wait till I get to tease you silly Mr. Longbottom, I will make you change your name to Sillybottom when I am done with you. Harry huffed and maturely poked his tongue at Neville. Their ridiculous byplay was not lost in Ms. Granger's eyes.

She rolled her eyes. Boys, they have all the subtlety of a troll. Or even less so.

They ate their dinner in silence, and Harry dragged them to a nearby classroom after dinner and explained the details of what happened inside the Chamber of Secrets. Neville and Hermione were left horrified by the fact that Voldemort was the one who possessed Ginny Weasley using the diary and that there was a basilisk inside the Chamber of Secrets. Hermione gave him one of her trademark hugs at this point. Their horror did not abate when he killed the said basilisk and being simultaneously being bit by the now-dead basilisk. He told of Fawkes contribution, the destruction of the diary, the meeting with Dumbledore and the freeing of Dobby. Soon, it was almost time for the curfew and they hurriedly made their way to the Gryffindor Tower. It did not take long for sleep to take over an emotionally exhausted Harry Potter.

Author's Note:

Hello All,

Once again, I must thank you for your wonderful support. It has been exactly a week since this fiction was released and it already has 150 favorites and almost 300 followers. Thank you for your support.

This chapter was an emotional chapter to pen down. There were many moments, each with various fluctuating emotions. I believe the touch with the awards is a unique approach that I have not seen any other author employ. This story might start to pick up from the next chapter. I know it may seem slow to some, but I believe in creating depth to our characters.

As always, please review, favorite, and follow if you can.

Regards,

Quatroquatro

PS: Thank you NatRose17 for your story on your love life. Whenever I hear different stories, I feel it gives a more complete perspective about love.

Edit 1: Made some corrections to spelling errors I spotted towards the end.