Stone Angels

Disclaimer I don’t own them.

Authors Note- Here’s fifteen. I hope you enjoy. I’m sorry if any of this confuses you. It is unbeta’d. Thank you to everyone that answered my plea.

Stone Angels

Matris Patronus

Professors Lupin and McGonagall waited quietly near the hourglasses for Harry, Titania, and Draco to join them.

“How have we managed to lose thirty points already?” gasped Draco as he approached.

Professor McGonagall waved her wand and a scroll appeared. “Thirty points taken by Serenity Snape for entering her private chambers without permission,” she read.

“Are we ready to go?” asked Remus.

“I believe so,” answered Harry as he double-checked Titania’s cloak.

“I thought we could walk,” explained Professor McGonagall as they exited the castle.

“What do you think, Kiddo, shall we walk?” asked Harry while swooping Titania up.

“Want down!” she proclaimed through her giggles.

“Okay, but stay close,” replied Harry with a smile.

“You’re very good with her,” commented Draco as they started walking down the path to Hogsmeade.

“Do you really think so?” asked Harry.

“Yes, I do,” smiled Draco, “You seem so happy with her too.”

Harry was quiet for a minute before he replied, “I’m afraid that I’m not going to be a good father for her. I didn’t have a very good childhood so how am I supposed to know what to do.”

“I don’t know, Harry,” Draco sighed.

“Don’t worry about it, Pup;” said Remus softly, “no one knows what they’re getting into the first time. You just wing it, and when you get stuck your friends are always there to help.”


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“You’ve done a very good job today, Kaida,” said Apothecary Galen placing a sandwich in her small hand.

“It was fun!” she replied, “I like the Pegasus wings, they were soft.”

“When you’re finished eating, we’ll treat your eyes again,” Galen murmured.

“No,” she pouted.

“Why no?” questioned Galen patiently.

“It hurts,” she replied. The tiny girl pouted more but shed no tears.

“I know it hurts but it’s the only way to help them get better.”

“Little Dragon, yous must let him,” said Asha in a no nonsense tone.

“Yes, Asha,” sniffled Kaida.

“After we treat your eyes, we’ll go back out and work on remembering the other shelves.”


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“It’s so nice to see the tension between those two redirected,” commented Professor McGonagall. She watched as her two students brushed against one another as they walked.

“I’m sure it is. I’ve heard stories of their encounters. If I hadn’t known James and Lily it would have appeared that they simply hated one another,” replied Lupin with a smile.

“Yes, but their encounters were a bit more explosive than the ones between James and Lily.”

“You never witnessed the battles after we graduated,” deadpanned Remus.

“Were they bad?” questioned Minerva.

“I arrived at their home one night to find James wandless and hexed fifteen different ways. Lily was so upset that she nearly splinched when she apparated,” explained Remus.

“That does resemble the battles between Harry and Draco,” McGonagall sighed.

“Professors, look what Titania found,” said Harry. Beside him Titania held up a firefly for everyone to see.

“Very pretty,” said Professor Lupin seriously.

“Remus, I have a quick meeting with a friend,” said Minerva softly, “I’ll meet you in the book store.”

They watched her walk briskly towards a small shop on the edge of town. Above the door they could see a swinging sign marking it as an apothecary.

“What would she need an apothecary for with Professor Snape at her disposal?” wondered Draco.

“That shop is run by an old friend of hers,” explained Remus, “She’s probably just visiting him. Let’s go, we have a lot of books to find.”

Minerva approached the apothecary quickly; the oddness of the letter left a hundred questions buzzing in her head. As she entered, all questions were scattered by the sight before her. Sitting on the counter, legs swinging, was a strangely familiar little girl with bandaged eyes and a very familiar House Elf.

“Ah, Minerva, how nice to see you,” proclaimed Galen pulling her into a hug. “I wish it wasn’t a business meeting.”

“You’re letter was very vague, Galen,” chastised Minerva. “What is this about? How could it be about a student this early into term?”

“It’s complicated,” replied Galen hesitantly. “You have the Malfoy boy at the school, correct?”

“Yes,” Minerva said carefully. “Really, Galen, what is this about?”

“We’s is the problem,” Asha said from the counter.

“You’re a Malfoy House Elf,” stated Minerva, “you attended Narcissa during her school years.”

“Yes,” answered Asha, “I’s is a Malfoy House Elf, now I’s is Little Dragons.”

“I’ve done all but one test, Minerva,” sighed Galen tiredly, “Kaida is a Malfoy.”

“I think you better start from the beginning,” demanded Minerva.

“Asha, this is your tale I think.”

“Asha helped the Missus for many years. ‘Only one heir’ she say but she be sad. Girl child after girl child they destroy until her Dragon came. ‘Only one Heir’ he tell her, as babies die, till her mind be broken. One got saved, hidden from him, but broken mind is frightened he’ll know. Three times her Dragon leaves home before broken mind is forever broken. She decides that Little Dragon is dangerous to the family, so she decides to get rid of her Little Dragon. A curse she cast, but broken mind is never truly decided. Little Dragon’s magic tried to save her, but the curse was still too strong. It breaked Little Dragon’s eyes. Broken mind forgot orders for Asha so Asha’s free to save her Little Dragon.”

“I’ve already been to the Ministry,” said Galen, “the records are there. She was born May first of Draco’s third year and is already listed in the Hogwarts books. There was no death so she’s been living on Malfoy money.”

“How did you find them?” questioned Minerva.

“I was gathering herbs and found them living in a cave in the forest. Asha was treating her eyes as best she could but the damage was significant. That was nearly two weeks ago. Asha said that Draco had run away as well,” explained Galen.

“Yes, he arrived at Hogwarts about two weeks ago,” murmured Minerva thoughtfully. “Lucius and Narcissa have been named as Death Eaters; they organized an attack on the train. Draco is now Lord Malfoy. Can I take the child?”

“She must go to Lord Malfoy,” warned Asha.

“She will,” frowned Minerva, “First we will have a Medi-witch look at her eyes. Draco hasn’t been told about his parents yet; Severus is going to do it tonight. We’ll explain about Kaida at that time.”

Asha’s expression softened, “Asha doesn’t want Dragon hurt.”

“Are you ready Kaida?” asked Galen softly.

“Asha!” cried the small blonde child.

“What wrong, Little Dragon?” questioned Asha.

Pink lips trembled, “I’m scared Asha.”

“Little Dragon, nothing hurt you. Professor McGonagall and Dragon will take care of you. Asha must go back now, big changes make House Elves busy,” Asha said to comfort the child. With one last look, she whispered her goodbye and apparated away.

“Asha!” screamed Kaida reaching out. In her haste she nearly fell from the counter. “Asha come back.”

“Kaida,” said Minerva gently as she approached the young girl. She gently took the searching hand in hers and spoke softly to the upset child. “Kaida, my name is Minerva.”

“I want Asha,” Kaida hiccupped.

“Asha had to go away for a while. Do you know who Draco is?”

“Brother,” sniffled Kaida.

“Yes, and we have to go get ready to meet him. Are you ready?” Minerva smiled when she nodded. “Galen, thank you for writing,” said Minerva gathering the small girl in her arms, “I’ll let you know what happens.”

“These are the potions I’ve been using on her eyes,” said Galen placing a package in her hand, “Professor Snape will be much better at making them than I am.”

“Thank you.” Once she was outside, she called Remus, “Remus Lupin. Remus, something has come up and I must return to the castle. Keep them occupied until Draco’s meeting. I’ll explain more when you return.”

“Understood,” replied Lupin.

Minerva apparated to the gates before she made her last call. “Molly Weasley, Serenity Snape, Severus Snape, meet me in Hospital wing, please. Severus, bring a lineage potion.”

“What’s wrong?” asked Molly.

“I’ll explain when you get there. I’m nearly to the Entrance Hall.”

Professor McGonagall walked as fast as she could with Kaida in her arms. To her surprise, Professor Snape was walking up the steps when she entered. It was only his years of spying that kept his face impassive at the sight of the child in her arms.

“Where did you find her?” he asked sharply as they made the final turn into Hospital wing.

“Galen found her living in the woods with a House Elf named Asha,” replied Professor McGonagall.

“Asha, as in Narcissa’s Asha?” questioned Professor Snape.

“The same. She refers to Narcissa as Broken mind. This is Kaida, according to Asha she was kept hidden from Lucius until two weeks ago. Narcissa tried to kill her but only succeeded in blinding her,” explained Minerva upon seeing the three waiting women.

“House Elves, especially one that has been with a mistress for so long, are more likely to see the breakdown of the mind,” Serenity mused, “They are a highly underestimated race.”

“Kaida,” said Minerva softly, “These are my friends, they are going to look at your eyes.”

“Momma made the light go away,” whispered Kaida.

“I’m going to start removing the bandages, Kaida,” said Poppy gently.

“I don’t wanna,” cried Kaida.

“It’s the only way to examine your eyes, Sweet Heart,” replied Poppy.

“It’s not a choice, Honey,” stated Molly Weasley. “You may sit on my lap or sit on the bed.”

“Up, please,” answered Kaida.

“Will this do, Severus?” asked Molly snipping a piece of hair.

“Yes,” he snapped taking the hair. Placing the vial on a table, he carefully added three hairs. He watched in silence as a thick gray fog filled the air above the vial until he could clearly make out the image of Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy.

“This is worse than I expected,” murmured Poppy, “I’m not sure what she used to do this but the damage is most likely permanent.”

“The Lineage Potion confirms it without a doubt,” confirmed Severus, “she was born to Narcissa Malfoy. The name was another give away though.”

“Narcissa always did have an odd obsession with dragons,” commented Minerva.

Serenity frowned. “When she was a child, a seer told her mother that Narcissa would find immortality with a blue eyed dragon. She has clung to that seer’s words since childhood.”

“I want Asha,” pleaded Kaida when Molly and Poppy began reapplying the salve to her eyes.

“Asha can’t come right now,” sighed Minerva softly.

Kaida turned her face away from Poppy and sniffled, “It hurts.”

“I know it hurts, Sweet Heart,” soothed Molly Weasley, “this will help it get better. You’re doing such a good job. Hold still just a bit longer and then it will be all done for tonight.”

“A couple more days and the pain should be almost gone,” murmured Poppy, “We can get rid of the bandages then as well.”

“I have to go meet with Draco,” said Severus while pinching the bridge of his nose, “This seems to be getting more and more complicated.”

“He’s become friends with Harry, that’s bound to happen,” stated Poppy, “Nothing is ever simple around him.”

“Thanks a lot,” smile Harry, “It’s not my fault that trouble always follows me.”

“Draco is already headed down to the dungeons,” said Lupin with a grin. “You might want to catch him, we were bothered by Rita Skeeter on our way back and he’s in a foul mood over it.”

“Bring him back here when he’s ready to meet Kaida,” ordered Minerva.

“Hi there,” said Harry kneeling in front of Kaida, “Is Madam Pomfrey taking good care of you?”

Kaida nodded and her lip trembled as she answered, “Yes. Momma made the light go away, made it hurt.”

“I see,” said Harry solemnly. “I bet Madam Pomfrey will make it better. Titania and I just came back from Honeydukes, if it’s okay with Madam Pomfrey I bet we can find a chocolate frog for you. What do you say Madam Pomfrey?”

“Once we’re finished with the salve it would be okay,” smiled Madam Pomfrey, “Maybe she can play with Titania while we wait for Draco.”

“Brother?” asked Kaida.

Harry looked at Professor McGonagall with wide eyes, “Brother?”

“Yes, brother,” replied Minerva tiredly. “I’ll explain the whole thing once Draco arrives.”

“I assume she’ll be staying in the tower with us,” began Harry, “How about we save Draco some stress tonight and get things moving there. Mimsy!”

In an instant the uniform clad elf appeared, “Sir be needing Mimsy?”

“Yes, Mimsy,” answered Harry, “I need you to make room for Kaida in Titania’s room. Kaida is Draco’s sister and will be staying with us.”

Mimsy’s eyes grew wide and her ears wagged as she spoke, “Sir be letting Mimsy care for another little one. Mimsy is so happy.”

“Mimsy,” said Molly gently, “Kaida’s eyes have been badly damaged. She has little to no sight so please set up the room so it is simple for her to learn where everything is.”

“Yes, Missus, Mimsy will make it that way,” replied Mimsy though she was looking at Kaida. After a moment of thought, she carefully approached Kaida, “Would yous be liking anything special for your room?”

Kaida reached out her hands and gently felt Mimsy head, “Asha?”

“No, I’s is Mimsy,” answered the House Elf.

“Asha went away,” said Kaida softly.

“Mimsy doesn’t be knowing Asha but thinks Asha wouldn’t be wanting Kaida sad. Asha be doing her work like a good House Elf.”

Titania watched with curious sea green eyes. “You can hold my teddy bear,” she said softly while placing the soft bear in the other girl’s hands. “My name is Titania.”

Kaida squeezed the bear tightly and whimpered as they spread the last of the salve over her eyes. She finally spoke when they began covering her damaged eyes with bandages, “I’m Kaida.”

“My new Daddy said you’re going to be staying with us,” chattered Titania.

The adults watched in surprised awe as Titania said more in a few moments than most had heard since she arrived. It was finally Harry who disturbed the two children.

“It’s awfully close to bed time for chocolate but you can each have one chocolate frog,” he said with a grin.

“You have to hold on really tight,” instructed Titania, “or they’ll jump away. Uncle Ron’s jumped into ‘Mione’s hair yesterday.”


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Professor Snape stomped into the dungeons cursing his former friends. His traitorous mind continued to replay images of Kaida’s cloudy bloodshot eyes. Storming into his quarters, he was slightly surprised to find Draco with a glass of Fire Whiskey in his hand.

Draco took one look at his Uncle and began poured him a glass. “You look as though you need this as much as I do.”

“Draco,” warned Snape.

“I’m sorry, Uncle Severus, but I just had quite a shock. The Ministry is looking for my parents.”

“I know,” responded Snape before downing his drink in one gulp. “I wanted to talk to you about that. The Death Eater captured on the train gave your parents names to keep himself away from the Kiss. They’ve been stripped of their titles and are now fugitives. Because of your public stand with Harry they found no reason to withhold your birthright. You are now Lord Malfoy.” He was unfazed by Draco’s glass shattering against the wall. “Do not get angry yet,” he warned. “Did you know about Kaida?”

“Who’s Kaida?” asked Draco while forcefully reining in his temper.

“Your sister.”

Confusion lit Draco’s face, “I don’t have a sister. I’m an only child. You know that Uncle.”

“Remove yourself from my liquor cabinet and I shall continue,” hissed Snape testily. Once Draco was near the window he continued, “Narcissa gave birth to a little girl in May of your third year. She kept it hidden from everyone except Asha. Just before your departure, this summer, she attempted to kill the child but only succeeded in blinding her. Asha brought her to safety and she is currently down in Hospital wing.”

Draco had visibly paled during his Uncle’s explanation, “What is to happen to her? Will I be allowed to keep her? Sweet Merlin, how am I supposed to raise a child, a blind child at that?”

“You will survive. There are plenty of people here to help,” soothed Severus.

“When can I see her?” questioned Draco through his shock.

“Take a moment and compose yourself,” sighed Snape, “She is safe with Poppy, Molly, Minerva, and Mother.”

Draco took his time pulling himself back together. Once he was certain that he was ready, he nodded to Snape. They walked together in silence through the darkened halls until finally they stood before the doors of Madam Pomfrey’s domain. It was there that he hesitated. Taking a deep breath, he pushed the door open and quietly proceeded.

Harry sat with a child on each knee and read while they waited for Draco, “The little girl was sad because her father was across the battlefield and did not have his magic sword to protect him. Wrapping the sword in her cloak, she carefully crept towards her father…. Hi Draco.”

“Hi,” replied Draco though his throat seemed thick. He sat on the edge of the bed and gently touched Kaida’s cheek, “You must be Kaida.” Seeing her shy nod, he pressed on, “I didn’t know that I had a sister. Did you know that I’ve always wanted a little sister?”

“Asha said you will take care of me,” said Kaida shyly.

“Asha’s right,” replied Draco softly.

“You won’t let Mamma hurt me?” questioned the tiny girl.

“Never,” swore Draco. “We should call Mimsy and make arrangements.”

“I hope you don’t mind,” Harry said, “but I already had her start. I figured that you didn’t need anything more for one night.”

“Thank you,” replied Draco gratefully. “You, little miss, should be in bed.” He looked at Madam Pomfrey and said, “Can she go home or are we staying?”

“She can go but she needs to come back tomorrow morning for more salve. I’ll show you what to do and you’ll be able to apply it. She’s going to need it three times a day for at least another week,” answered Madam Pomfrey.

“Don’t worry about the trip into the Chamber tomorrow, either,” ordered Molly, “I’ll take both girls. It won’t be any problem.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Weasley,” said Harry, “Let’s go girls.”

Harry watched as Draco mimicked his actions. They walked in silence while carrying the two girls to the tower. They were almost to the entrance when a voice over the radio disturbed Harry’s thoughts.

“Potter,” called Snape, “Keep an eye on Draco for me tonight. He seemed to be in a bit of shock.”

“Aurora Angelae,” murmured Draco.

“Who’s this?” questioned Luna as she walked up behind them.

“This is Draco’s sister Kaida,” replied Harry, “What were you doing out of the tower?”

“I was out talking to Micheal Corner. He’s very upset. He and Hannah were engaged but she broke it off this afternoon. He doesn’t understand why and she won’t talk to him,” answered Luna.

“Has anyone spoken with her?” questioned Harry.

“No, she won’t speak with anyone,” replied Luna. “Her housemates are really worried about her. It’s not like Hannah to stop speaking with everyone.”

“I agree. Who’s the leader of her House Guard?” asked Harry thoughtfully.

“Padma Patil,” responded Luna.

“We’ll talk to her before we go on rounds.”

“I had forgotten about rounds,” groaned Draco. “Who’s staying with the girls?”

“I am,” said Neville as they entered the sitting area. “New addition?” At his question, everyone in the room looked up.

“Yes,” sighed Draco, “We’ll explain once they’re in bed.”

Harry stuck close to Draco as they climbed the stairs to their quarters. “You okay?” he asked softly.

“Just really tired. Why would anyone do something like this?”

Harry sighed, “I don’t think that there is an answer to that, but maybe Asha was right and her mind broke under the strain. Would you like me to take care of the explanation?”

“Would you?” asked Draco in surprise.

“Yeah, it’s not a problem. You’ve been hit with a lot today, later we’ll talk to Hermione about dealing with the Media. She and Rita Skeeter have a history,” replied Harry with a grin.

“Somehow, I believe that Miss. Skeeter is not on the happy end of that deal,” smiled Draco.

“She made the mistake of crossing Hermione during the Tri-Wizard Tournament,” explained Harry pushing their door open. “Hermione is not a good person to cross.”

“I remember,” replied Draco as he deposited Kaida in her new bed. He gently kissed her head and murmured, “Sleep peacefully Little Dragon.”

Harry carefully put Titania to bed, “Sweet dreams, I love you and will see you in the morning. I have rounds tonight, so Neville will be staying in the tower if you need anything. Mimsy can get him for you.”

“Love you, Papa,” yawned Titania.

“Harry,” said Draco while dimming the lights, “I’ll be down in about fifteen minutes, I just want to grab a quick shower.”

Harry smiled, “Okay, I’ll just go explain about Kaida.”

Draco quickly collected his shower kit as Harry exited their room. Once he was certain that the dark haired boy was gone, he removed his dagger from the box beneath his bed. It was a beautiful silver dagger with an ebony handle. A single quarter sized emerald was set into the dark wood.

Once in the bathroom, he turned on the shower and let it run. He carefully pealed off his long sleeved shirt and left it in the hamper.

“Finite,” he whispered.

He felt the tell tale tingle of the concealment charm ending and gazed at his reflection in the mirror. One pale finger reached out to trace the words carved into his chest, ‘The Last Pureblood Malfoy’. Using the dagger, he cut through the word pureblood, beneath it he carved the word male and added a word to the end, ‘The Last Male Malfoy Heir’.


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“So you’re telling us that she actually tried to kill a little girl,” gasped Ginny in horror.

“Yeah,” replied Harry, “but Kaida’s magic tried to protect her.”

“You said she’s blind, is that from the attempt?” asked Susan.

“It is,” replied Harry, “and there isn’t a cure at this time.”

“What about an eye like Professor Moody had?” asked Pansy.

Susan replied, “She’s too young. Besides that, they’re hard to control.”

“I haven’t spoken with Madam Pomfrey, yet, but there is a possibility that her magic will heal it over time. She’s young enough that her magic is still wild, it’s likely to have a life of its own,” said Draco descending the stairs. “Have you asked Padma yet?”

“No,” answered Luna.

“Asked me what?” questioned Padma.

“We need you to try to talk to Hannah,” explained Luna, “She broke off her engagement to Micheal. No one knows why and she won’t talk to anyone.”

“Why would she do that? He’s all she talks about,” wondered Padma, “I’ll go talk to her right now.”

“Oh, Hermione,” began Harry, “we need to extend our protection against Rita Skeeter to everyone in this room.”

“What did she do?” questioned Hermione.

“She harassed us outside the book store,” admitted Draco.

“I was going to wait a while but maybe I’ll just have to hurry my plans along,” sighed Hermione, “Hey Harry, what do you think about me buying the paper?”

“That would be great ‘Mione,” grinned Harry, “maybe then they’ll print the truth.”

“It’s settled then,” laughed Hermione, “Let’s go out and get rounds done.”


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Harry and Draco walked tiredly through their rounds. It had been a long day for both of them and they simply wished to go to bed. They were just passing the astronomy tower when they heard a moan.

“Sounds like some couple is getting a head start this year,” sighed Draco detouring up the tower stair.

“Yeah, I wonder who it is?” added Harry.

They listened as they moved up the stairs but Draco broke the silence, “That sounds more like crying. Who else is on rounds?”

“Hermione, Blaise, and Professor Snape,” answered Harry. “Hermione, where are you?”

“Preparing to check the Great Hall,” replied Hermione, “What’s wrong?”

“We’ve got someone crying in the astronomy tower. Do you mind helping us?”

“Harry, what are you doing?” demanded Draco.

“Do you know how to deal with a crying girl?” questioned Harry.

Draco paled and shook his head.

“We’re on our way,” said Hermione with a sigh.

“Well, let’s go,” said Harry, “We should at least find her.”

“Why aren’t we waiting for Hermione?” asked Draco.

“We can’t just let her cry,” explained Harry climbing higher.

“My guess is she’s at the top,” sighed Draco.

“Who do you think it is?” wondered Harry.

“I don’t know, maybe one of our two from the revel,” replied Draco.

“Hello?” called Harry pushing open the trapdoor.

“Once again, we need to work on your Slytherin side,” sighed Draco throwing up a shielding charm.

“Who’s up here?” called Harry while flashing Draco a choice hand signal.

Following the sounds of sobbing, the two young men were stunned to find Hannah Abbot standing in the embrasure. Wind whipped around her making her precarious footing even more dangerous. Yards of material from her dress caught in the wind nearly hiding her slim form.

“Hannah,” began Harry cautiously, “Hannah, come down.” She turned slowly giving them a clear view of the blood staining the front of her white dress. The bloody words made his heart sink, “Draco get some help up here, now!” he hissed.

Hannah’s feverish eyes turned on them as she spoke “Stay away from me!”

“Professor Snape, Professor McGonagall, Madam Snape, Hermione, and Blaise,” called Draco, “We need you in the Astronomy tower now! Hannah Abbott is standing on the wall and ready to jump. Uncle Sev, she’s the second girl.”

“I’m almost there,” came Professor Snape’s reply, “I’ll collect Molly along the way.”

“Micheal,” sobbed Hannah pressing her hands against her stomach, “Micheal, I’m sorry.”

“Hannah, talk to me,” said Harry trying to regain her attention, “Hannah, what happened?”

She pressed her hands against her ears smearing blood across her cheeks and hair, “No! Leave me alone!”

Harry stepped back and whispered softly to Draco, “Do you have your broom in your bag?”

“Yeah, what are you thinking?”

“If she jumps we go after her and pull her back. We’ve made that kind of dive many times before,” explained Harry.

“Why hasn’t she jumped yet?” questioned Draco.

“She’s wearing one of his necklaces. My guess is there’s a compulsion to prevent her from hurting herself but she’s fighting it,” responded Harry.

“Miss Abbot,” said Professor Snape startling the two boys, “please come down.” His sharp eyes quickly took stock of the situation.

“No, no, no,” she cried shaking her head. Each motion combined with the wind to further compromise her balance.

“Look at her eyes Severus,” ordered Molly, “She’s probably delirious with fever.”

“Professor, we brought Micheal,” explained Hermione climbing onto the platform. “She broke of their engagement today.”

“Hannah,” cried Micheal pushing his way to the front of the rapidly growing crowd. “Hannah, please come to me Hannah.”

Feverish eyes focused on him. “Micheal, I’m so sorry Micheal. Please don’t hate me, I can’t let him have it.” She pressed both hands against her stomach and began speaking to herself, “Oh, baby, baby, don’t worry. I won’t let him have you.”

“Hannah, please come to me,” begged Micheal.

“I’m sorry,” responded Hannah before throwing herself backwards.

“Draco now!” cried Harry jumping over the edge.

Draco was only a second behind. Both men grabbed their brooms from their bags as they fell. Broom securely beneath him, Harry pulled out his wand and stupefied the falling woman. Without the threat of her putting up a fight, they each grabbed her by an arm and returned to the top of the tower.

As they landed Harry spoke to Molly, “I stupefied her so she didn’t fight us. I’m amazed that she actually managed to jump. She’s wearing one of his pendants.”

“What’s going on?” asked Micheal, “Why did she do this?”

“Micheal, come with me and I’ll explain,” said Madam Snape softly.

“Can I stay with her?” he asked.

“First let’s go talk,” she soothed. It was obvious that he was in shock.

“Let’s get her to Hospital Wing,” ordered Molly, “I’m going to need Poppy. Poor girl, she’s burning up.”

“I just finished a new batch of fever reducing potion,” said Hermione, “I’ll bring it straight to Hospital wing.”

“Good work, Gentlemen,” Professor McGonagall said startling them, “Ten points each.”

“Did you finish with your rounds?” questioned Professor Snape.

“This was our last stop,” replied Harry.

“Okay, head to bed, there’s nothing more you can do tonight,” ordered Snape.


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“Look Papa,” giggled Titania jumping on Harry, “We did it all by ourselves.”

Harry rubbed his eyes and sleepily looked at the excited girl. He grinned realizing that her robes were backwards, her shirt was inside out, and her shoes on the wrong feet. “I see you did. Where’s Mimsy?”

“Here sir,” answered Mimsy leading Kaida in, “Miss Titania is rushing, she be wanting to show Miss Kaida everything.”

“Well, Little Miss, first we need to fix your clothing.” He laughed as she removed her shoes and robes then helped her fix her shirt. When they were finished he turned to Kaida, “How about you? Those are very pretty robes.”

“I picked them and Mimsy helped,” Kaida replied shyly.

“Well, they are very pretty. Let’s get your hair brushed, any idea what we should do with it?” asked Harry.

“I want ribbons!” exclaimed Titania as she climbed on Draco’s bed. “Wakey Wakey Draco,” she cried jumping.

“It’s too early,” complained Draco rubbing his eyes, “Oh my, who dressed you?”

“I did,” she giggled. “Will you do our hair? You’re better at it than Papa.”

“I see,” Draco smirked, “How about you go with Harry to get some matching clothes while I fix Kaida’s and when you get back I’ll do your hair, okay?”

“Why?” she asked.

“Because violet and orange do not match,” he sighed.

“Oh, okay.” She jumped off the bed and grabbed Harry’s hand, “Come on Papa, we hafta hurry.”

“Those are very pretty robes, Kaida,” said Draco moving to the floor.

“Mimsy helped me. She said they’re blue. They’re very soft,” explained Kaida.

“What would you like in your hair?” asked Draco.

“Braids, I don’t like gooey hair,” she replied.

“Gooey hair?” questioned Draco.

“Smelly, gooey hair if it gets in the medicine,” she giggled as her hair began to braid itself.

“Draco,” she began shyly, “Can I have a ribbon?”

“Yes you may,” he said before changing one of the pins into a ribbon.

“Draco,” she said again though very softly, “it hurts.”

“What hurts?” he questioned.

“My eyes.”

“Once I’m dressed we’ll go down to Madam Pomfrey, okay.” He quickly retrieved clothes for the day, “You stay right here for a minute. I’m going into the bathroom to change. Just call for me or Harry if you need anything.”

“Okay,” she replied.

Draco rushed to get changed but by the time he was finished, Harry and Titania had returned. Titania once again dressed and matching.

“We have to go to Madam Pomfrey first,” said Draco as Harry headed in to change, “Then they’re spending the day with Professor Weasley.”

“Who’s fesser Weasley?” questioned Kaida.

“She holded you,” said Titania.

“Alright you, what do you want in your hair?” inquired Draco.

“Braids with ribbons,” she proclaimed.

Draco waved his wand and watched her hair braid violet ribbons through it. “There, all done.”

“Great, let’s head to Hospital wing,” said Harry entering the room.

“Don’t wanna,” pouted Kaida.

Draco knelt in front of the girl, “It’s not a choice. The only way to make your eyes not hurt is to use the medicine. If you’re good we’ll get a treat afterwards, okay?”

“A chocolate frog?” she asked.

“If that is what you want,” laughed Draco.


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“How did her treatment go?” asked Molly as they entered her sitting room.

“I think it was harder for him than it was for her,” stage whispered Harry.

“She did a very good job,” said Draco, “I promised her a Chocolate frog if she was good.” He placed one in each child’s hand.

“Nana,” said Titania pulling on Molly’s sleeve, “you said we could make cookies today. How do we make cookies?”

“You just made her day and saved the rest of us a lot of trouble,” said Charlie from behind Harry.

“She came up with it all on her own,” replied Harry.

“She did the same thing with calling you Papa,” commented Draco.

“Mrs. Weasley it is so nice to see you,” said Fleur from Bill’s side.

“Fleur dear, please, call me Molly,” requested Molly, “How was your trip?”

“It was long and I am glad to be home,” replied Fleur, “Who are these beautiful children?”

“This is Kaida, Draco’s sister, and Titania, Harry’s daughter,” explained Molly.

“I thought you were an only child Draco?” commented Bill.

“So did I,” sighed Draco, “Narcissa kept her hidden until she panicked about two weeks ago and tried to kill her.”

“But she is just a little girl!” exclaimed Fleur.

“Yes, and Narcissa is a very dangerous, very disturbed woman,” responded Draco. “Kaida, be good for Professor Weasley and I’ll be back later.”

“Titania, that goes for you too. We’ll be back in a few hours,” said Harry. “If you need us we’ll have our radio’s on. That reminds me, Fleur.” He handed her a radio. “Do you know how to use it?”

“Yes, but how did you make them work here? There should be too much magic,” Fleur questioned.

“Hermione figured it out,” answered Draco.

“Are we ready?” asked Harry, “The others are meeting us in a few minutes.”

“Where are we going?” Bill questioned.

“You’ll see,” replied Harry with a grin, “You’ll never guess where the entrance to the Chamber is.”


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“Harry, why are we at Myrtles bathroom?” asked Draco.

“Funny thing, the entrance to the Chamber is in here. Anyone care to know how Myrtle died?”

“She was killed by the Basilisk when the Chamber was opened the first time,” proclaimed Ron.

“You already knew,” complained Harry.

“Let’s get this over with,” snapped Ginny.

“You’re right,” sighed Harry. Turning to the sink he hissed, “Open.”

“The gathered explorers watched, fascinated, as the sink slid apart. Stone and metal groaned in protest until the opening was completely revealed.

“Okay,” began Harry nervously, “the first step is a doozy. I suggest that we levitate each other down or something like that.”

“Why not just cast a cushioning charm?” asked Draco.

“The tunnel is too winding,” explained Ginny.

“How did you get down the last time Harry?” inquired Hermione.

“We sent Lockhart first,” he admitted sheepishly.

“I see. Well, you make things too complicated. I’ll call when I’m ready for the next person to come down,” explained Hermione before jumping down the hole.

Hermione pulled her arms close while she descended the slide like entrance. As she fell, she counted the seconds until at last she hit the bottom with a sickening crunch.

“The bottom is ten seconds down. I can’t be certain how far that is because towards the end of the tunnel there are charms to slow your descent. I suggest you go one at a time every ten to fifteen seconds,” she murmured into her headset.

“I’ll go first,” said Snape with a glare daring anyone to dispute him. With a crisp nod to Harry, he gracefully stepped into the slide.

“Step this way, Severus,” ordered Hermione as soon as his feet hit the ground, “The next person should be landing.” Just as he stepped out of the way, Draco hit the ground.

“That is quite a ride,” Proclaimed Draco stepping towards his Godfather.

Ron and Luna slid down together followed closely by Bill, Fleur, Remus, and then Charlie. Pansy and Blaise slid down with Harry close behind. Last came Neville and a very shaken Ginny.

“There are a lot more rodent skeletons down here,” said Harry looking around.

“The cave in has been cleared away too,” added Ron, “Do you think he’s found another way down here?”

“No,” replied Harry thoughtfully, “He would have tried something.”

“It was a Basilisk down here so there are probably more,” sighed Luna, “There could be tons of them down here.”

“How are you doing, Ginny?” asked Neville.

“It’s not what I expected,” she murmured, “I don’t really remember much.”

“The Chamber is this way,” said Harry starting down the tunnel with his wand lit, “Once we reach the main Chamber, it will light up.”

“Is there just one room?” asked Bill.

“I don’t know,” admitted Harry, “I found Ginny and the Diary Horcrux here. Tom sent the Basilisk at me to buy time. By the end we just wanted out.” He rolled up his sleeve and shoed them a Galleon sized scar on his forearm. “Faux saved us. I can tell you from experience, Basilisk venom works fast. He cried for me so that I could get Ginny out. Here it is.”

The large group moved cautiously into the large chamber. The door, which Harry had opened, clicked with an eerie echo.

“Did you bring the Gillyweed, Professor?” asked Harry.

“Yes,” began the Professor. A heavy concrete against concrete screech shook the room then silence reigned.

An echoing hiss seemed to fill the room beginning with the shadows. Rather than fear, a wave of calm and security blanketed the room.

“What is that?” gasped Ginny.

“It’s alright,” replied Harry, “It’s just the snakes.”

“What are they saying?” demanded Charlie.

“They keep saying ‘He’s here, he’s the one,’ replied Harry.

An ancient airy hiss filled the room, “Ah, the True Heir has arrived!”

“Who’s there?” snapped Snape with his wand raised.

“There’s nothing to fear little Half-blood Prince, for all is safe in my Chamber,” chuckled the hissing female voice.

“Why does that voice sound so strange?” questioned Remus.

“It’s speaking in two voices,” Harry explained, “One in English and the other Parselmouth.”

“Very good, my child,” the strange voice said as the largest of the snakes came to rest before Harry.

“Why isn’t it attacking?” asked Draco softly.

“Poor child,” hissed the snake turning towards Draco, “Lost in heart and abandoned by blood. You’re safe here.”

“Why aren’t you like the other one, the one that killed?” questioned Harry.

“Many years ago the Dirty Heir of my former master’s blood entered our sanctuary. My son, in his excitement, approached without caution. This heir, that never should have hatched, blinded my son and the pain drove him to insanity. The tainted son of Slytherin ordered our kin to slay those that we protect. For years we hid, hunted by one of our own. Years went by and finally the flame haired child came. The girl was forced to obey, much as our kin was. Then the True Heir came to save the flame haired child.”

“Why are you calling me that?” demanded Harry.

“A thousand years has past since my Master walked these halls. He had only two children. A son, who’s heart held nothing but hate, and a frail daughter, who stood for all she believed despite her illness. The dirty blood heir is beget of the disowned son, his blood is stagnant and foul. You, you are the true heir, beget of the daughter who married a first born wizard.”

“What do you mean, first born wizard?” asked Harry.

“It’s an ancient term for Muggle born,” replied Bill.

“So the daughter of Salazar Slytherin married a Muggle born? I thought he hated all Muggles,” said Draco.

“Yes,” hissed the snake, “In the beginning the Master feared and hated what he did not understand. Evil men came, I killed many, and they stole his Hatchlings. Our Master gave chase across the wild lands but he wasn’t the one to find them. A magic-less woman saw crying Hatchlings and saved them. The woman was injured protecting the hatchlings but the Master healed her and returned home with the Hatchlings.”

“He could not hate someone that would risk everything for a strangers children,” concluded Hermione.

“Yes,” confirmed the Snake before turning back to Harry, “You own all that is in these chambers and we will obey all you tell us.”

“Can you tell us if anything else lives in here?” asked Fleur.

“Just the rats, the Seer’s creation, and my kin,” the Snake hissed.

“What kind of creation?” Harry questioned suspiciously.

“Cassandra Trelawney Slytherin was one of the greatest Seer’s of all time,” exclaimed Hermione, “It is believed that she predicted the fall of Grindelwald.”

“The creatures have only moved once since their creation,” She hissed, “Time chose to save one and leave him in their care. They have not moved again since his arrival. Beware, their chamber has long since flooded.”

“How much Gillyweed do we have Professor?” inquired Harry.

“Enough for four of you to go for two hours,” replied Snape, “I will not be able to go as I am allergic to Gillyweed.”

“We need to make four groups. Once home base, two to explore this Chamber and any other rooms you find and one for the water. Fleur, I’d like you to go with me because I know you have some experience with underwater exploration,” began Harry, “Would anyone else like to volunteer?”

“But Harry,” Fleur protested, “I was no good in the water. I was unable to save my sister.”

“I have every confidence that you can handle this,” admitted Harry, “This is different, besides, Hermione made emergency portkeys for us.”

“I’m not a very good swimmer,” admitted Bill, “so I’m better off in a dry group.”

“I’ll stay at base camp, I’d like to speak with the Basilisk some more if she’ll speak with me,” added Charlie.

“I will speak with you,” hissed the ancient Basilisk, “My name is Shaarah.”

“I’ll go with you, Harry,” said Ron excitedly.

“I’ll go too, Potter,” smirked Draco, “Merlin knows you need someone to think ahead.”

“Luna and I will stay with Charlie,” said Ginny softly, “I’d like to talk to Shaarah too.”

“Neville and I can go with Bill to explore one side of the room,” Remus suggested.

“That leaves four of us to explore the other side,” said Blaise, “I’d say we’re about ready to go.”

“Robes are not a good idea for this,” said Draco transfiguring his clothing into a long sleeved wet suit.

Harry, Ron, and Fleur quickly followed suit. “Okay, we’re just about ready. Everyone, be careful. Don’t wander off alone. Hermione, want to explain the portkeys?”

“It’s simple,” stated Hermione, “The word Poppy takes you to Hospital wing and the word Basilisk brings you back here. The four underwater ones are activated by pinching them; they will bring you right back here. Charlie will have the antidote to the Gillyweed. Are there any questions?”

Fleur looked at her team, “Are the three of you armed?”

“I am,” said Harry pulling a knife from his boot.

“As am I,” answered Draco pulling a knife from an arm sheath.

Ron reddened, “Not me.”

Blaise took pity on his new friend and removed a knife and sheath from his thigh, “Keep it, and always have a weapon on you.”

“Do you have a weapon?” worried Ron.

“More than you would guess,” Blaise replied with a grin.

“We’re gonna want to be in the water for this,” said Harry taking the jar of Gillyweed from Professor Snape. Once everyone had a large knot of it he handed the jar back to the Professor. “It’s not the most comfortable experience but very useful. On three; ready one, two, three.”

The four explorers choked down the slimy knot of Gillyweed. Once ingested, it didn’t take long for it to work. Gills formed, fingers and toes webbed, and they were ready to go. Once under the water, Harry pointed the way.

The water was deepest near the statue and they found the entrance to the first tunnel at its base. As they approached the tunnel, Draco pointed out a large door that was rusted open. Taking note of it, they moved into the hall like tunnel. Beneath them, on the floor of the tunnel they could see more rodent bones and pieces of broken potions apparatus.

They were nearly one hundred meters into the tunnel when it suddenly opened into a large body of water. Ron was the first to see the outstretched arm of the squid. Signaling to his companions, Ron motioned them towards an outcropping of rock.

Harry shook his head no and pointed towards a glowing area in the opposite direction of the squid. Seeing their nods, he led the way towards the light.


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“How many rooms do you think there are?” questioned Neville.

Bill was leading their team along the wall to the right of the statue, “I’m not sure. The legends associated with the chamber are few and mostly dark. The more I learn the more I’m convinced that we don’t know the truth about Slytherin.”

“If we look at the basic facts we can get an idea,” added Remus. “We know that Slytherin was a Potions Master so there may be a potions lab.”

“I think I’ve found a door!” exclaimed Bill. “Help me push this open.”

All three men began pushing on the door causing the rusted hinges to groan in protest. They were just about to give up when a crack announced the end of the door. Pulling the debris out of the way, they were stunned to find a large root across the doorway.

Neville’s eyes opened wide as saucers, “It’s an arboretum! Look there, that’s not supposed to exist anymore. Do you realize what this could mean?”

“The possibilities are endless,” stated Remus looking around, “It’s so overgrown.”

“Yes, but with a bit of work this place could hold hundreds of cures that were lost to overuse. Professor Sprout and I could get this place under control, I’m sure of it,” Neville said excitedly. “Don’t touch that Professor, it bites.”

Remus pulled his hand away from the pretty red flower, “Thanks.”


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“I think I’ve found something,” cried Hermione while brushing years of dust and dirt from the wall in front of her, “There is some sort of writing.”

“Intend no harm and enter,” read Pansy. She began clearing the next section, “or beware the gods you anger.”

“A warning,” mused Blaise, “I wonder what treasures Slytherin kept here.”

“Let’s find out,” challenged Hermione as she gave the wall a shove. To their surprise, it swung open easily.

“Use caution,” warned Snape, “who knows what kind of traps could be on this room.”

“I don’t think there are any traps in here,” said Pansy stepping into the room.

Fine carpets and tapestries did little to hide the child sized furniture and toys. As they stepped further into the room the fireplace flared to life behind a protective screen. Above the fireplace, the still portrait of two children looked down upon them.

“My god,” gasped Hermione, “Look at her eyes.”

“It could be Potter, if he were a girl,” Severus said.

“There’s a door over here,” called Pansy before she pushed the door open.

“Wait for us, Miss Parkinson,” warned Snape.

“Sorry Professor,” sighed Pansy, “This must be Cassandra’s room. We need Parvati in here; she would understand these star charts.”

Hermione carefully ran her finger along the open pages of a huge tome, “Listen to this; ‘I dream of them every night. They are dark creatures, living off human souls. They steal sanity and leave behind only the worst memories. Few wizards are powerful enough to stop them and the red eyed monster sends them to prey upon the innocent. I only hope that the Matris Patronus can stop them.’ What does her dark creature sound like?”

“A Dementor,” Severus replied. “I have never heard of a Matris Patronus.”

“Is it possible that that is what she created?” questioned Pansy. “Shaarah did say that she created a creature.”

Hermione glanced around the room, “Is it possible? Was she really dreaming about dementors and just decide to create something to counteract them?”


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“You are confused,” hissed Shaarah.

Ginny looked up at the ancient Basilisk, “I hear them, the other snakes, and sometimes I think I hear words. It’s odd.”

“A piece of his soul touched yours, perhaps the gift given to his kin began to pass to you,” mused Shaarah.

“Why did he do it?” asked Ginny softly, “Why did he become so evil?”

“Bloodlines become tainted unless new clans come together. Tainted blood does strange things. The mind breaks and the body deforms. What is the difference between evil and madness?” hissed Shaarah.

Ginny held her arm out to a small snake and watched in amazement as it wrapped around her, “Evil knows what it is doing, madness doesn’t.”

“An evil creature can become mad and still be evil. Evil is easy to predict, madness has little pattern. That is Hashiira.”

“How did Slytherin receive the gift of your language?” questioned Ginny.

“It is part of bonding with our kind,” explained Shaarah gently, “It has been too long since we have bonded with a human.”


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As they neared the light, peace seemed to engulf the quartet. The happiest memories they had bubbled to the surface a drove away their fear. Leading the way, Harry felt the euphoria and paused. Within the light he could see shapes, like marble statues with vague features they floated motionless. There, trapped with a cocoon of air and water, was one person he thought lost to him.

Harry began swimming as fast as he could. Draco, by far the fastest of the four, was closest when the bubble seemed to pop. Harry watched in horror as his Godfather began to struggle and fight the sudden onslaught of water.

Draco saw the stasis bubble pop and rushed to the drowning mans aid. As soon as he was within reach, he grabbed the man and pinched his portkey. Seconds later he lay gasping for breath beside Charlie Weasley. Beside him, Sirius Black coughed up the water he inadvertently swallowed.