More Than You Think You Are Chapter 23: It's only a matter of time until I learn, a harry potter fanfic

Author's Notes: In the last chapter, Draco challenged Harri to an all-out-no-holds-barred bout! Sirius and Lily mourned James' death, while Ron began having second thoughts about destroying any relationship Draco had with Harri. Neville asked out Harri to the Winter Ball, and she agreed. Pansy received a message from Voldemort, leaving her shaken to the core. I would really appreciate it if the people reading this story would REVIEWPlease let me know what you think of my storyby reviewing.Thank you to the following for reviewing: Yzliose, Founders Child, scorpion boi, Liviania, george, jellybean, yaukira, Silvestar, pheonixya, Shinigami, Arica, Princess of Rivendell, and Fei-sama!

Disclaimer: Harry Potter was created by J.K. Rowling.

More Than You Think You Are

Chapter Twenty Three: It's only a matter of time until I learn to open up my eyes!

Nia and Lily had been silently communicating with their sisters, blocking out their male brethren for hours now. It would not bode well to allow any of the males to interfere in their conversation. Especially since Murchadh would be very upset to discover that his sisters were thoroughly discussing the state of the twelfth of their kind. If their youngest brother Alejandro had an inkling of what the fight between his niece and her protector meant, he would fly to Hogwarts and create havoc. Though Nia loved her little brother, his heart had been broken and a sorrowful phoenix was a dangerous one. She and Lily could personally attest to that. They both had the nagging feeling that a few uninvited guests would attend what was meant to be a private fight between the two students, one could not help but anticipate a fight that was centuries in the making.

Watching the spat would bring forth a wave of memories of events that had taken place thousands of years ago. The dragon clans were ready to shed blood, and their newest progeny Draco would do well to defeat their only rivals in power. Even Dumbledore had no idea of the real reason Draco had challenged Harri. While it was true that dragons and phoenixes were blood enemies; the truth behind their ancient rivalry went much deeper. The two magical creatures had feuded long before man became the prominent sentient beings of Earth. The flying serpents had originally seemed less malevolent, and had been willing to share power with their phoenix counterparts. Initially, they all had been willing to extend the olive branch of peace, until the unthinkable happened. Nia had been only a few millennia old then, and was astonished to learn that her youngest brother had committed a terrible sin. Alejandro had just had a birthing day and celebrated with his family and friends, but with that special day also came the advent of war.

Unfortunately, what should have been a joyous occasion had quickly morphed into a nightmare. For the celebration all magical creatures of good standing with their coven were invited, and this included the dragon clans. The newest leader of the several hundred factions was the Chinese Dragon, Shui Xun. His name literally meant fast water, and he served his moniker well. He was the swiftest dragon anyone had ever seen. He moved through air like he moved through water—at breakneck speeds. He was proud, abrasive, and openly despised the phoenixes. He especially hated Murchadh, and Nia. He had never been one to bow to anyone he deemed beneath himself, especially a creature one hundredth is size. Most thought that Shui Xun was jealous of the legendary powers that a phoenix possessed, but Murchadh had always believed that Shui Xun's hatred went deeper than that. There had to be something, some catalyst that had caused Shui Xun to hate their family so much. The younger phoenixes believed that the hatred stemmed from their disapproval of his sibling Kimiko's desire to mate with Alejandro.

Nia was adamantly against a dragon-phoenix union, and everyone else concurred at the time. It was her responsibility as the oldest to protect their family at all costs. Any dragon-phoenix coupling was an abomination in her opinion. Physically, the two were incompatible while in their truest forms. However, when they both shifted into their humanoid guises, they were physically a near perfect match. Dragons in their humanoid forms were very similar to phoenixes when they transformed. Aside from their more pronounced fangs, and pointed ears, Dragons very easily resembled humans. They usually had silver or blond hair with grey, silver, blue, or clear eyes.

Still, even if they all chose to overlook the obvious physical differences, the blatant truth was that phoenixes were immortal creatures. While a dragon could live for a nearly a thousands years, they could not be reborn and were destined to die. Alejandro knew this well, but yet he still pressed on, determined to have the beautiful dragon Kimiko as his mate. He ignored the rules of their coven, as did Kimiko. They refused to see reason, and at one point Nia considered ousting her brother from the coven forever, but she too knew that was impossible. Though she was the oldest, all decisions were to be made as a group, and everyone knew that there must always be an equal amount of phoenixes on Earth.

Nia knew that the moment Kimiko laid eyes on Alejandro, she wanted him for herself. A dragon was anything but subtle in his or her intentions. She saw him in his humanoid form, and would never want another again. While Alejandro found her beautiful, he still tried to resist the dragon's charms. Kimiko would not be denied however, and Alejandro's initial rejections did nothing but fuel Kimiko desire. Soon, her come hither glances and soft smiles were just enough to lure him, until he openly returned her affections. What was already an uneasy alliance between the two families soon became a terrible rift. The thin line walked between the two groups had now been broken, and grudging respect turned into open hatred.

When Nia pointedly told the head dragon Shui Xun that his sister was not good enough nor was he physically compatible to be with her brother, the dragon declared war. He had been searching for a motive to wage war and take the power of the phoenixes for his own clan for many centuries. He was foolish in his endeavor and died in the process. Nia had tried to compromise—to make him see reason, but the stubborn male had forced her hand. She would always choose the lives of her brethren over anything else. Whether Alejandro accepted it or not, he could never be with Kimiko. He was quite simply an immortal being, blessed with divine gifts. His gifts could be sacrificed, if only for the sake of the coven. Lily had done the same thing with her immaculate conception of Harri. She had willingly relinquished eternal life so that her child could live in her stead. Immortality was not something that any of them could give away so easily. Their very existence depended upon adherence to these rules.

Thinking back, Nia realized that she had been cruel with her words to Shui Xun. Kimiko if nothing else was a lovely person, but she simply could not be her brother's mate. Nia hated being the bad guy, as much as Lily hated to be the sweet one, the one everyone thought was incapable of breaking the rules. Although Lily had somehow managed to find a loop hole in the rules, Nia doubted that lightening would strike twice. Nia had never been so lucky, and yet here she was once more, forced to be the hated older sister. What was the point in being so powerful if she could not bring about any change? She truly understood her niece's frustration. Harri hadn't asked for any of the responsibility or pain that had been bestowed upon her. All of the trouble that fell into her lap had arrived because it was her destiny. Yet how could Nia explain to a fifteen year old girl that the reason she must was forced into battle with her boyfriend was because of something that happened before either of them had been born? It was cruel to force young children to fight in battle for something that was not even their fault.

Harri deserved to know why Draco was really her protector. She deserved to know why Draco was involved at all. She had been surprised that Hermione had yet to figure that out tidbit. The girl was the smartest witch of her age, and even she had failed to see what was obvious to others. Why hadn't any of them asked why Draco of all people was chosen? Humans were so clueless and silly in that regard. Had any of them done a little research into the bitter history of the Dragon and Phoenix clans, they would realize why all of this was happening, and why it happened between Harri and Draco. Nia nodded in agreement as Lily mentally spoke of her worries. Nia knew that her sister wanted to see Harri fight, but she was currently nursing that foolish mutt back to health. Sirius was a grown man, and although he was grieving Lily knew that she should give him space. Besides, she needed to bear witness to a battle that had been festering for eons. All phoenixes present knew the outcome of the battle, but it was important to witness the fight. Besides, she desperately wanted to see the two children rise above their warring ancestry, and work together. Until they both willingly accepted and recognized one another's strengths and weaknesses they would be easy prey for Voldemort.

"The young wizard Draco Malfoy has challenged his charge, the witch Harriet Potter to an anything goes duel in order to settle a dispute that has arisen between the two. He has invoked his right as her protector to test her worth, and we the members of the Phoenix coven accept this decision. Those before me shall bear witness."

Fawkes bellowed, as the acoustics of the arena he was inside traveled through the room. Standing in the center of a very Romanesque stadium were Harri and Draco both dressed in their training clothes. Gone were the school uniforms, as they would be nothing but a severe hindrance. Draco looked impeccable in black pants, and a grey t-shirt. His hands were gloved, and he carried his wand with authority. He was obviously very eager to use said instrument against her. Harri stared into his eyes, but they had already darkened to that abysmal black hue. The silver grey eyes that she could lose herself in were filled with hate as he caught her stare. His shoulders were arched and his body was taut. He was ready, and she knew it. Draco exuded a confidence that seemed to completely evade her. She was afraid of fighting him, not because he may be stronger than her, or that she may be hurt. No, Harri was afraid of fighting with him because it would mean that he had never really cared for her, as she had for him. If he did care, than why was he so eager to hurt her? Why did his eyes jump at the chance to see her writhe in pain? Was he really a sadist, or was everyone right? Were they truly destined to hate one another? Had what she felt in the past been one sided?

Maybe she was simply allowing her insecurities to overtake her. If anything, she couldn't let her feelings get in the way. He had wanted his bloodbath, and he would get it. She would rain down pain upon him with every blow, making sure to include every feeling of rejection, sadness, and false hope that he had ever given her. She wanted him to feel how she felt; she wanted him to know that his words hurt her more than any blow ever could. Harri had trusted him, she had damn near fallen in love with him, and what had he done? He made her feel like a fool for ever believing that someone could possibly care about her the way that she cared for him. Even if she lost the fight between them today, he would know once and for all that her heart was not something that she gave away lightly. He would reap what he had sown a thousand times over. She did have to thank Draco for one thing—he had shown her that he would never change, no matter how much she wanted to believe otherwise. A Slytherin is a Slytherin is a Slytherin.

She stood anxiously, her body limber and ready to dodge, twist and curl. Dressed in an outfit similar to his own, Harri looked ready to kill. Her pants were tighter, and fit her like a glove. Her tank top was made of light cotton, and charmed to stay intact. She allowed herself a small smile at her ingenuity. She would need clothes that could withstand blows, spell, and whatnot. Harri resembled something out a cliché girl power movie, with her in a high ponytail, and her glasses glinting in the light. Her wand rested in her hand, and the gloves she wore made her appear rather dangerous. She could feel the heat emanate from her wand, humming with a power begging to be unleashed. Harri inhaled deeply, silently prepping herself for what would be a physically, emotionally, and mentally tiring experience. Seeing Draco's calm countenance made her feel even more frustrated. Draco was to blame for the entire situation, and when she had complained about this injustice, everyone around her had ignored her. Some had even gone out their wait to further accommodate him. Harri wasn't jealous or anything, but she didn't like to be manipulated, especially when it was done to appease someone else.

However, if this was what it took to finally settle the score between the two of them, then she would do what must be done. She had stretched earlier, and was as nimble as a fifteen year old athletic girl could get. Fawkes had given her little explanation as to how to defend herself, but Harri had learned quite a bit from him when they had traveled to the past. She also had practiced alone several times, but she had been doing that since she entered Hogwarts. Harri knew that Draco would probably best her physically, although she would be sure to pack a punch. Even with her slightly muscular body, and strong upper and lower body strength, Draco still had an advantage. He was four inches taller than her, weighed about 20 pounds more, and all of that extra weight was muscle. Her best bet was to magically give herself advantages.

Not quite steroids, but the few charms she had placed herself would prove just as useful. Earlier when she had changed into her battle outfit, she had chosen not to magically charm herself to feel pain. Though it seemed like a poor decision, pain allowed her to assess what steps she should take to further protect herself. A good offense was a good defense after all. Aside from this double edged tactic, Harri felt that it was fair. The fight itself was not to the death, but she had no doubt in her mind that things would escalate violently. Basically, this fight with Draco would be the end all be all of all of their fights before. Draco would definitely be transforming into his dragon form, which Harri was prepared to fight. They both knew that dragons held immense strength, but their magic held no candle to that of a phoenix. She would have to fight his dragon as a human, but at least then she could use his body against him. It was no secret amongst the assembled party that Draco had a problem with maneuvering with his girth. When he attacked she would be ready.

Thinking about their upcoming battle only made her feel bitter. What in the world had possessed her to actually believe that Draco would not try to hurt her? He had just openly challenged her—he had even smacked her face. He didn't care about her, and she wondered if he ever had. His words earlier had been lies, and she had fed upon them willingly. She wanted to think that he could care about her, but the truth was he saw her as unworthy. She was nothing but a dirty, useless half-blood in his eyes. Though Draco hadn't verbally admitted this, behind every action there was a bit of truth. Why else would he not be able to control the beast inside himself? Anyone with enough willpower could overcome inner struggle. Had he just not wanted to defeat the vicious beast inside of him, or did he actually like the idea of putting her in her place? Obviously, he was allowing the dragon free reign. Draco agreed with his soul animal, he thought that she was not good enough for his protection, and he was determined to make her prove herself. Draco had done nothing because he likedthe idea of testing her worth. He wanted to defeat her once and for all to determine who was the more magically adept. Though he excelled in academics even more than she, he insisted on being her better.

Harriet was never one to back down from a challenge, especially when it came from a rival. Thus, she was not all surprised to find herself standing in a nearly empty dungeon, a place that had long since been cast aside by the students and staff of Hogwarts. Facing her were those chosen to witness the match. Her mother stood angrily to the side, as if she already knew the outcome of the events that were about to take place. If her mother was angered, Harri believed that she'd probably lose the match. No one else seemed to notice her presence, because Harri had the distinct feeling that only those of blood relation could see her mother. Dumbledore appeared clueless, but Nia Fawkes and her mother would catch each other's gazes once and a while. This fight would most likely remain physical in nature; at least Draco would keep things that way. She would have continued brooding if Fawkes hadn't burst through her concentration. He only repeated his warnings earlier—to stay focused and watch out for his horns.

"The rules are quite simple, lady and gentleman. You are not to kill your opponent, nor are you to permanently render your opponent disabled or incapacitated. Instead you will fight until your opponent is no longer able. Physical and magical fights will be the only acceptable form of battle, absolutely no mental duels! On that note, you may BEGIN!"

Dumbledore spoke authoritatively, although everyone heard the apprehension in his voice. It was obvious that the Headmaster was against the match, but was forced to acquiesce. Harri didn't like the looks Draco sent to her aunt and uncles, and she had meant to get payback anyway for the earlier comments Draco had made about Sirius as well. Sirius like Nia, Murchadh, Fawkes and the other phoenixes she had yet to meet, were her blood. When Draco had insulted them, he had insulted her as well. They stood before the other, neither bowing but both had managed a small nod.

"What are you waiting for Draco, it's your move. We are here because you can't keep yourself together, right? You might as well try to defeat me as quickly as possible, because I won't be an easy win!"

Harri shouted, already in a defensive position. Even if she was going to lose, she wouldn't go down without a fight! If he wanted to her to bow down to him, and accept him as her better he was going to have one hell of a hard time. Harri furrowed her brow in concentration, stretching her muscles. Though Harri had virtually no practice in her phoenix form, she had found time to reevaluate the moves she learned from Fawkes. Some of the techniques he had taught her in his human form were very impressive. She had learned how to manipulate her magical energy, turning into a tangible force that could be an excellent weapon without a wand in hand. Coupled with the research they had both done on how to manipulate the energy of both the soul and life, Harri could make her magical signature a formidable weapon. She was a bit eager to try them on her former boyfriend. Once she beat the crap out of Draco, she would definitely let him know that they were through. The slap to her face assured her of that fact. Harri scowled at him, knowing that Draco was so sure of himself.

Draco felt strange, stranger than normal actually. He felt as if there were a fire in his belly that yearned to be quenched. The way his adversary stood with her green eyes glowing sharply made him wish to crush her skull, but in the same breath, it made him wish that he could crush his lips to hers. What had happened to him that he would want to destroy Potter with such cruel efficiency? She had scorned him for the last time, for he could take no more of her mind games. Still, the way she had addressed him only added fuel to the fire. He wanted to defeat her swiftly and decisively. Draco wanted to show her what she was missing, that he was just as good as she, if not more so. He would show them all that it was she who was not worthy of his protection. Potter, just like everyone else would regret ever having doubted him. Once he successfully made her submissive to his directives, he believed that his sudden hatred would ebb away. Something was inside his mind, coaxing him into battle, mentally prepping him for what would be a physically tiring exercise of strength, agility, and intelligence. The voices of thousands merged into one, and all of them spoke at once in his mind, but there was no time to reflect.

The whistle blew, and Harri flew back, narrowly avoiding a swipe from Draco's newly conjured battle ax. Amazingly, he had merely extended the battle ax from the wand itself, aiming it at her head. Harri was impressed by his usage of his wand, but she hadn't the time or the willingness to openly congratulate him. Instead she fled from him, simultaneously willing herself invisible. Though it took almost all of her concentration, Harri successfully became transparent. Now that she had the visual advantage, she used her wand to spray an invisible, odorless gas through the air. Already Harri would see the gas' effectiveness judging from the watery eyes of those present. Draco sank to his knees, a low growl rumbling from within his throat. Her trick had angered him, but bought her needed time. She would force him to fight in his dragon state, come hell or high water. There was no other way for her to defeat Draco unless he was completely fighting in his awkward serpent form. Harri stood downwind from him, staring at his shaking back.

Then, Draco did something totally out of character. He actually chuckled. His laugh wasn't a screech, or an annoying snicker. Instead, what came out of his mouth was a deep, sarcastic bellow. He stood wobbly to his feet, moving his wand over his eyes and mouth. When he reopened his eyes, the glint of confidence was back in full force. With a stroke of his wand he sent a jelly legs curse her way, which Harri managed to block by instinctively placing a barrier between them. She removed it just as swiftly, and charged right at him. Harri feigned to the left, and then sent a Conjunctiva curse his way. Draco dodged it before she could get it the word completely out and then kicked her in the abdomen, sending her flying back into one of stone walls.

"Is that the best you've got Potter! I thought you were going to at least give me a work out. I suppose you truly are pathetic. If you aren't going to prove yourself worth my time then we might as well call it quits now. After all, you're obviously no match for me. You're a hundred years too young to challenge me!"

Harri knew that he was only trying to anger her, to make her lose focus. She wouldn't let his words get to her, and she didn't care if she nearly died in the process, but she would knock that cocky smirk off of his face once and for all! Maybe she could use his ego against him. If she could find some way to lure into a false sense of security, she could defeat him. She smiled then, knowing that although he could beat her in a physical battle, could Draco defeat her if she manipulated her magical signature? Harri slipped her wand back into its holster, and held out her both her palms. She gathered her magical essence, (the essential substance that gave a witch or wizard their powers) and balled her hands into fists. Then she charged him, and they began to fist fight at break neck speeds. Harri managed an excellent uppercut followed by a jab to the left and a right hook. She then topped it off with a punch to the stomach, followed by a kick to the side which sent him into the upper stands a few feet below their audience.

Her move was not without causalities however. Draco did get in a few good shots of his own, particularly her chest and head. He pummeled her abdomen relentlessly. Harri nearly buckled over from the pain, but she gritted her teeth and bore it. Her breathing was labored, but she couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. After all, it wasn't everyday she could see Draco in such a pathetic state. To be the one to have caused that was an even greater joy! Her cheek was already beginning to bruise, but she could speak clearly enough.

"How's that for a hit you cocky son of a bitch! Those punches were charged with my own magical energy. If you want to fight me hand to hand so be it. But we both know that while you may be my physical better, I can kick your ass in all things magical. For the record, I didn't challenge you, you challenged me! If you've got issues with me than say it to my wand or else say it to my fists! Either way, you better get ready because you've pissed me off for the last time you snobby, elitist, silver-eyed bastard!"

Harri yelled, sending a powerful blast of magical energy at him, as he struggled to get up. Draco barely managed to dodge the blast, but the damage was done. Already the two of them had destroyed three portraits of Headmasters past, not to mention the damage they inflicted on themselves. Dumbledore had wisely set up a shield to protect those witnessing the fight. Harri couldn't contain the perverse joy she felt as she watched Draco sink to his knees in pain. She never thought of herself as some kind of sadist, but Draco had issued an official challenge and he was getting what he deserved tenfold. No matter how much agony she bestowed upon him Fawkes and Dumbledore wouldn't allow things to escalate into fatalities. Sure, there would be bruises and broken bones (Harri already felt one of her lower ribs had been fractured) but this was standard collateral damage in fights like this. If she couldn't withstand the fight between Draco, she would bite the dust when she and Voldemort finally went all out.

"Oh does it hurt little Slytherin? It should, you know. I guess you could equate that punch to being hit with a cannon surging with both magical and kinetic energy at point blank range."

She would have gone on to further insult the blonde, but his guttural growl stopped her immediately. Obviously she had upset her opponent. A trickle of nervousness made its way down her back, but she thankfully Harri was able to contain her fear. Shaking such thoughts from her mind, she concentrated on the fight. Harri would have to tread lightly, and quell her anger for the moment. Suddenly his growls turned to bitter laughter. Draco spat out blood, and what looked a lot like a tooth. She grimaced at the carnage, but steeled herself once more. This is exactly what Draco wanted.

"Not bad Potter, not bad at all. It's what I would expect from you. You really do pack a punch. Now I know to avoid close range fist fights, let's see how you fare against me in duels with our wand."

Out of nowhere a curse nearly as painful as the Cruciatus hit her full blast. She hadn't even heard him utter the incantation. Tears welled in her eyes as she experienced what felt like thousands of tiny pin pricks stabbing at her chest. Harri sank to her knees coughing up blood, as her eyes bulged. She tried to desperately control her breathing, as the pain slowly ebbed away. Whatever spell Draco had used on her was probably illegal. Then again, the rules were anything goes. Everything short of Avada Kedavra and the other Unforgivables would be used.

Up in the stands, the two students' audience was paying close attention. Ron didn't like the impromptu fight and he certainly resented the fact that Harri being beaten to a pulp was some sort of sick spectacle. Sure, she had just given Malfoy the old one-two punch, but that didn't make fighting like this any less abhorrent. Watching his best friend being tossed around like a rag doll was not something that he wanted to see. Now he was even more determined to keep them far away from one another. Ron doubted that he'd have to work too hard judging from the looks being passed between the two. He stood, heading for the exit behind the stands.

"Ron where do you think you're going? Harri is in the middle of a fight!"

Hermione hissed, gripping his arm angrily. Ron winced at the pain, gently removing her fingers. Who knew that she had a grip like that?

"Harri is in a fight that she can and will win. My being here makes no difference whatsoever Hermione. Besides, I have some business that I need to attend to and I can't do it here. I'll talk to you later."

"What business do you have to attend to that is more important this? You heard the prophecy Ron. We should be here to support Harri."

"Believe it or not Mione but the world does not revolve around you and Harri. Like I said before, there is something that I need to do so don't follow me!"

His tone gave no room argument. Hermione nodded curtly, upset with Ron's selfish behavior. She watched him leave the room quickly, without bothering to spare Harri a second glance. What did he have to do that was so important he had to snap at her like that? Ron had an infamous temper but even he wouldn't have been so rude. What if he were seeing another girl? Lately Ron had behaving oddly and every time she asked him about it, he'd get an attitude. What if he were secretly dating someone without telling his friends? There had to be a rational explanation. Even if he was going out with someone he wouldn't keep it a secret. What if his behavior was the early stages of him becoming like Peter Pettigrew? Hermione suddenly felt ashamed of where her thoughts had taken her. Ron would never turn on his friends. He was too afraid to even say Voldemort, let alone join his group. But if he weren't turning traitor and he wasn't seeing a girl what else could it be? What is Professor Snape really was right and Ron was doing things he shouldn't?

"Dammit, I can't just stop believing in him like that! Ron is my friend and he would never do anything like that. Ron is a good person and he is not so easily influenced!"

Hermione chastised herself and cursed Professor Snape for the seeds of doubt that he had planted in her mind. The last thing she needed was to cause a rift between the three of them with her unfounded suspicions. She truly wanted to trust Ron, but even if he were doing something inappropriate what exactly was she going to say? Somehow "Ron I won't let you become a traitor and go evil" didn't seem right. She needed to do something though. Hermione discreetly headed for the shadowy exit Ron had taken, following out a back door with the help of the Marauder's Map. She had pilfered the document from Harri's robes earlier in the day because she thought she may need to follow Ron. Of course, she also didn't expect to need the map, but obviously Ron needed to be tailed. With one final glance at her severely wounded friend, Hermione rushed after Ron. She prayed Harri would be alright on her own.

Unbeknownst to Hermione, her presence meant nothing to the two combatants in the arena. Their concentration was on one another. Nothing short of the apocalypse would keep the two from fighting. Just as Harri managed to recover from Draco's earlier assault, she barely had time to dodge the sharp knives that spewed from his wand. Erecting a barrier had become second nature to Harri, and so his knives were deflected right back at him. Harri was running out ideas. She couldn't keep deflecting his attacks. Harri needed to render him unable to fight as a human. The best way seemed to be to take away his wand. Shrugging thoughtfully at the idea, Harri had to admit that sometimes it was best to simply go with a classic spell.

"Expelliarmus!"

Instantly, Draco's wand was flung into her hand. Harri threw the wand into the air, effectively placing it in her own magical pouch, a quaint variation of pseudo space. She stared into his eyes with a mixture of pleasure and pain, enjoying the look of his shock immensely. To be fair, she decided to place her own wand into the same pouch, making this a fistfight free-for-all. Crossing her arms, Harri stared down at her opponent hatefully. Draco peered down at her with a strange look. He was angry of course, but there also seemed to be amusement in his eyes.

"You've taken your enemy's wand. That's impressive coming from a Gryffindor who would shoot first and ask questions later. Very well Potter, we shall fight hand to hand. I was being easy on you because you're just a girl."

Harri laughed caustically at Draco's bravado. He was being rather nonchalant for someone without a wand. That was always the case with men anyway. They never wanted to admit that they were wrong or that they had been defeated. Draco was no different.

"Both our wands have been placed inside my magical pouch which exists in a sort of third dimension—pseudo space if you will. The only way to retrieve your wand is if you manage to kill me, or if I decide to give it back. You're no match for me with a wand and we both know it. I am giving you the advantage by fighting me hand to hand."

"You are as weak as I am right now. We are both pretty tired as it is. Even so, I am stronger than you Potter. You just did yourself a disservice by agreeing to fight me this way."

"Perhaps, but either way I am going to kick your ass!"

Harri ran towards him, jumping high into the air before kicking Draco in the side. She then proceeded to punch and kick him at nearly inhuman speeds. Draco could only avoid about 30 percent of the attacks. Harri jumped away from him suddenly, sending a huge mass of energy straight towards him. On a human being this attack would have done more than render a person unconscious, it would have killed them. However, Draco was a wizard, and her attack would merely stun him, giving her time to deal the finishing blow.

"S-So much power! How is she doing this Headmaster!"

Professor McGonagall asked, clearly flabbergasted by the display of power that he student was emitting. Both she and Draco were clearly above the rest of their classmates in terms of defense and offense. Surely they both would make great Aurors one day. Draco, with his calm exterior and level headedness was an excellent choice. Harri's body held loads of untapped, unrefined energy just waiting to be unleashed. They both would be fearsome as they aged. Dumbledore's face showed no signs of emotion, but one could guess that he was very proud of his students.

"This is it Draco, GAME OVER!"

Harri yelled, amassing as much magical energy as possible. She had wanted to pull out her wand and pour her power into a singly attack at point blank range. A beam of power was not as nearly effective as a wide blast would be. Instead, Harri's body gathered more and more of the magic force flowing through her veins, so much so that she couldn't stop it. There was so much energy in the room that nearly everything on the walls began to melt or burn. Harri couldn't will her body to stop, and the wall of energy was growing exponentially. Throwing her hands upward, she tried to avert the blast. Already both her parents ran to her side in an attempt to help her. Remus, Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall hurried to her side. They were too late, and the blast exploded around them all. The burst of blinding light and the searing heat almost made Harri pass out from the pain.

A growl came from inside the arena, and Harri felt that familiar cold shiver down her back. Draco had reverted to his dragon form to protect himself. Watching the gigantic serpent shield the others in the room made Harri's knees buckle. Draco was the most beautiful creature that she had ever seen. He was a very large, silver colored dragon with two three feet horns on his forehead. His fangs were glistening white, and his eyes were no longer the menacing black hue that she had come to fear. This dragon's eyes were an eye blue that glinted silver in the light. His scales were shining white, and his hair had gone from that stark blond color, to a more sophisticated indigo blue. His tail was at least twenty feet long, and his body was cramped inside the arena.

Harri was so awestruck by his beauty that she didn't see his tail come out of nowhere and fling her into the upper stands. She yowled in pain as blood came from her mouth, and spilled unto the stone bleachers. The bright red spots disappeared from her vision, and Harri wobbly stood to her feet. She could make no mistakes now because Draco had transformed. She had driven him to life saving measures. The Slytherin boy may had reservations about killing her but this dragon did not.

"Stay calm Harri, we'll save you! Just stay still!"

Professor Dumbledore's voice wafted in the air. Harri nodded her head nervously, standing absolutely still. The dragon would have none of that however. He breathed a breath of fire towards their audience, but it had no effect. The shield Dumbledore erected stayed in place. Dumbledore whipped out his wand, ready to end the match, and repair the damaged room. Her mother's hand stayed him for the time being. Nia, Fawkes, and Remus appeared to be the most reassured. Harri doubted that Draco was in his right mind at the moment, despite what adults may think.

"No Professor. You must not interfere. Either today or tomorrow, this match will be decided. They must settle their differences!"

Severus bellowed, although he more than anyone else wanted to end this match immediately. He may have just recently learned that Harriet Potter was his daughter but he would be damned if he watched her die! His knuckles whitened as he gripped his wand, ready to intervene at any time. Damn Dumbledore, those bloody dragons, and those stupid arrogant phoenixes for bringing this own Harri. He hated to watch as she trembled with fear at a humongous dragon that looked ready to eat her. The worse part was that this Draco in his dragon form was as big as his ancient ancestors. He looked nothing at all like the domesticated dragons that many wizard folk were used to seeing.

Draco turned his attention back to his enemy, stepping towards her menacingly. Harri tried to reach for her wand, but then she remembered that she had thrown it in her magic pouch to be fair to Draco. She cursed her stupidity, and began to think hurriedly of a way to defend herself. Her only thought was to change into a phoenix, but she didn't know how to will the transformation. The first time she transformed was because of her mother. She had given so much life energy that she had died because of it. How could she turn into a phoenix now? Did she have to be in a life or death situation in order to transform? Fleeing from a giant dragon certainly qualified as life threatening, but what exactly was the catalyst. What could she do to change?

Harri didn't have time for further contemplation because Draco sent a huge breath of fire her way and she had no time to block. Fearing for her life, Harri's went catatonic. She was burned thoroughly, and would appear to be dead. If it weren't for her phoenix heritage she would be dead. As the flames dissipated, her charred body could be seen smoldering in the ashes. Everyone watched with sick fascination as her boy was set aflame. The process was instantaneous. Bone shifted, feathers grew, and in the place of human arms and legs were claws and wings. Before them stood a giant phoenix, virtually the size of a grown man.

Harri felt strange in this form. She couldn't speak the human language, and she now understood why Fawkes transformed into his human guise. Birds do not have the vocal cords needed for human dialect. The only ones that could understand her would be another phoenix. Temporarily distracted by her transformation Draco ceased his attacks. He instead watched curiously as a now bird like Harri acclimatized herself to her surroundings. Perhaps they could communicate with one another, and she it would be nice to get insight into Draco's strange behavior.

Hello? Can you hear me Draco?

I can hear you loud and clear. So this is your truest form—a little bird. Perhaps you are not a total weakling.

So says the one who will eventually die.

It is better to have a moment's strength than an eternity of living banally as a weakling.

Do you still hunger for me? Do you wish to kill me?

I will always hunger for you. In more ways than you know. Nevertheless, you must not be completely pathetic if you forced me to fight in my truest form. You have passed my test, Potter. Congratulations. Not bad for a Gryffindor, not bad at all.

Ditto.

Slowly, their bodies reverted back to their normal selves, leaving them broken, bruised, battered, and bloody. Draco's clothes were nearly shredded, as was Harri's. He limped towards her, leaning heavily on his left leg for support. Harri winced as she heard the bones pop in her shoulder. They awkwardly faced each other, unsure of what to say after they had pummeled one another. All around them, the sounds and faces were gone. A pregnant pause fell between them.

"Maybe you really are worth protecting Potter. That was one hell of a fight. You're not half bad."

"Yeah, you're pretty good too. Let this be a lesson to you. Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it."

With that said, they closed their eyes, already unconscious. They collapsed then, suddenly exhausted from all of the fighting. From afar the sight of two teens resting comfortably atop one another would seem romantic, if not erotic. On those two however, it appeared strangely awkward. A wistful smile appeared on Fawkes face as he watched the sleeping teens. He raised his hands in the air to signal the match over.

"Draco Malfoy has accepted Harriet Potter as his charge. Harriet Potter hereby passes the test, and we members of the Phoenix Coven bear witness."

"Now that they have the bloodlust out of their systems, do you think that we have a chance?"

Remus asked the conscious group, as they levitated both children to the hospital wing. Dumbledore appeared thoughtful, but he didn't jump into his usual cheerful diatribe. Professor McGonagall was reflective, but she too remained silent. Remus found their silence unnerving. If the Headmaster and Headmistress were not self assured, how could anyone else be?

"Where there is hope there is a way Remus. You of all people know this."

"We must always have constant vigilance."

Nia smirked at his answer, suddenly amused by the human werewolf's comments.

"Have you been in the company of Mad-Eye recently?"

"No, but after hearing his words for decades it gets ingrained in your mind."

They shared an awkward laugh, thankful for the escape from uncomfortable topics. Nia was disturbed by the humans' fickle views on their own survival. It was one thing to realize the potential terror that Voldemort would release upon the Earth, and it was another thing to do something about it and remain hopeful for the future. She hadn't wanted to place her trust in them, but no matter how much she disliked them, they had a right to exist. Her visions into the various possible futures disturbed her greatly. So many different timelines revealed endless sorrow, slavery, violence, and hatred. She would heed his words dearly. Constant vigilance would save many lives in the coming months.

---------------------------

"Let me get this straight. After all of that fighting, the whole bloody duel ended in a tie!"

Sirius bellowed, clutching his hand to his aching forehead. He had wanted to witness the fight himself, but Lily felt that he would most likely be a distraction. She showed him through her mind's eye, the entire fight. Harri was very impressive, and so was Draco. Obviously they hadn't completely goofed off. Seeing them both transform into a giant and phoenix was not as disturbing as he thought it would be. Sirius was an animagi himself, so seeing someone undergo the change was quite familiar. They both moved awkwardly in their so called "truest forms"

"What did you expect Sirius? Harri has gotten stronger, but with Remus training Draco he was a formidable opponent. Besides, the duel may have been a virtual anything goes, but in the end the purpose of the fight was to expunge them both of their inability to work together."

"These bloody kids today…"

"Well come on Sirius let's go!"

Lily ruffled his hair, snatching what was left of the whiskey and pouring it down the sink. She grabbed his hand, and conjured up new clothing, making sure to clean him up a bit as well. Then she ushered him out of the room with as much flourish that Molly Weasley used on her family. Sirius didn't know what to make of Lily's sudden change in personality, but he knew one thing. A woman's heart was as fickle as the skies over the Forbidden Forest. They quickly arrived at the gates of Hogwarts. Instantly he turned into the Snuffles, and she hid her true identity with a quick change of spells.

She cloaked herself, and walked in tandem with the giant dog at her side. They would have to show themselves in front of Dumbledore soon enough. She couldn't simply hold out any longer. It was high time that she cleared Sirius' name and gained official custody of Harri. As for her marriage to Severus—Lily loved her husband to be sure, but even he was still a double agent, and until she could do something about that, for now she and Harri would publicly remain Potters. They passed a throng of students, ignoring the curious stares from the braver students. Lily knew that she should have worn something less conspicuous, but with Sirius at her side resembling a Grim it wouldn't have mattered. They arrived at the Headmaster's door, giving a familiar muggle candy as the password. Lily had no idea what "Sour Power" was, but she guessed it was a nother tart confection that Dumbledore found delicious.

Lily had only seen Albus Dumbledore surprised twice in her life, and on both occasions she hadn't been the one to surprise him. She pulled her hood quickly, removing the spells that she had placed on herself. Immediately Snuffles became Sirius, and before Dumbledore could chastise the animagus for being on school grounds without Remus, Lily started.

"I met a man who had no eyes. I wept for him, oh how I cried. He touched my skin and then he died—"

Lily recited a snippet of a poem that she had learned as a child. One day she recited the poem to Dumbledore because she said it was a way to identify one of her kind. The poem itself was spelled so that only those trusted by the coven could remember or even recite it. Sirius, as soon as he heard it, would forget as soon as they finished.

"I was burning phoenix that had just been reborn, and he was a man that very few mourned."

Shock faded from Dumbledore's face to be replaced by a gentle smile. He looked as if he wanted to ask her a million questions a minute but he remained calm. He was not the Headmaster of Hogwarts for nothing. Instead, he ushered them both to seats, but not before politely offering them candy, which they both turned down.

"I am pleased to see that you are once again among the living Ms. Potter, or was it Snape?"

Despite her displeasure with Dumbledore's actions she was still happy to see him. There was nothing wrong with being amiable for now. She had plenty of time to demand answers from him later. For now, she had to tend to more important business.

"Lily will do for now Albus. In case you were wondering, the Mother Root spell was performed, and Lily had her first burning as a result."

"That would explain the sudden surge of magic that I felt from Snape's manor. I just assumed he was concocting another of his potions. You are aware that he knows of his connection to Harri are you not?"

Lily narrowed her eyes at her former Headmaster. Sometimes she found his "good natured father-figure attitude" meddlesome. Lily sometimes felt as if everyone around him was nothing but a pawn in his power struggle with Voldemort. No matter how

"Of course I know Albus! I could see everything that you all did to her when I was dead! You certainly did a piss poor job of protecting her. We'll discuss that at another time. For now, let's deal with a few more pertinent issues. Sirius has become a pariah of society, viewed as nothing more than a common thug. The very fact that you of all people would believe that he betrayed James and I is appalling."

Dumbledore had already begun to try to explain but Lily would hear none of his weak excuses. Her former professor, a man she looked up to had pretty much let Sirius rot in prison. He was the most powerful wizard of the age and he did nothing to free Sirius. There was so much that he could have done to sway public opinion. He waited years before offering Remus the only job that he could get more than a decade later. Lily didn't understand his reasoning, and even if he thought he was justified in his actions, it was still wrong to idly sit by and watch someone be outcast in society.

"Lily you really do give me too much credit. I no longer hold the sway that I once did. People are happy in their delusion of Voldemort finally being gone. They want to believe that he can never harm them again. We both know that this is foolish, but I am but one man. My first duty is to the school and my students. I also had no proof of Sirius innocence, aside from my own knowledge that Sirius is a good man that would have never betrayed his best friends."

"Luckily for you Headmaster, you can help right the wrongs of the past. I would like for you to summon Minister Fudge and the Department of Child Services to the school immediately. I have proof that Sirius was not the secret keeper because James and I both signed an affidavit in our own blood attesting that Peter would be the secret keeper."

"I see. What about the notary that initialed the document. That person also knew who the secret keeper was a never came forward."

"James and I considered that situation and we placed a charm on the notary so that he would not be able to divulge this private information unless either one of us gave written and verbal consent. It was because of our deaths that we were unable to absolve Sirius of any crime."

"Who is the notary?"

Sirius asked, his thoughts wandering to all the possible choices. Who was it that Lily and James trusted enough to tell of their secret. Once again Lily had foreseen something—his unjust imprisonment. Knowing that there was nothing she could do to alter the event, she suggested that both she and James sign a form which would pardon him of all wrong doing. Lily smiled at Dumbledore coyly, happy to see that for once he didn't have all the bloody answers. She wouldn't bring forth her notary until Fudge arrived, and they had all the officials needed to free him. Then she would call the reporters from the Daily Prophet who could report on the breaking news. There was no time to string along Dumbledore.

"You'll find out soon enough. Headmaster, if you would please summon the press to the Great Hall as well as Minister Fudge and his cabinet we could begin."

Sirius wanted to be able to roam freely without being looked at as a criminal, but he was beginning to have second thoughts. First of all no one knew that Lily had returned from the dead, which according to every major magical tome was impossible. Secondly, everyone assumed that he was a murderous criminal and would attack him upon sight. Lastly, wasn't it insane to bring in the press before Lily was properly restored on record as living? Sirius could see the pandemonium now—chaos would rum rampant through the school. The dead mother of Harri Potter along with Sirius Black escaped madman would not only create panic, but would also cause even more negative attention to befall the school.

"Lily, this is a bad idea. We should take this one step at a time. First let's see about you being added to the roster of living witches first. We can wait to get my pardon. After all I have had thirteen years on the run. What are a few days more?"

"Sirius Orion Black I will no such thing! You have been dealt a great injustice. You deserve to be free to do whatever you wish. The public has the right to know the truth, and you have the right to be a free man. We will do these things all at once to save time. You can leave crowd control to me and Dumbledore."

"Are you sure that you know what you're getting into? This is big Lils. I mean really big. No one has ever done anything like this before. Have you discussed this with Severus and Harri?"

Lily frowned as Sirius' words hit home. She hadn't spoken with her daughter or Severus, but she knew that both would want to hold everything off for a few days. At first Lily thought that this was a good idea, but between the dreams that she had, and her brothers and sisters silent warnings to her, she knew that they didn't have all the time in the world. Voldemort was mobilizing, and Hogwarts was going to become a school divided, if everyone just stayed the course. Now was the time to do everything when they had the element of surprise. A war was being fought, which for now had been dormant, but soon, soon things would change dramatically.

"I thought of doing that Sirius, but we don't have that kind of time. All of my siblings have gone to their familiars to protect them from harm. I don't think you two understand, but Voldemort has already gained allies in the States, across South America and a few Ministries of Magic in Africa. He is gathering his partners, and he will attack us. We have to protect ourselves at all costs."

"Oh I see. By announcing my innocence and with your return to verify my claims we are sending him a message. He killed you once because you and Harri were a threat to his power, and now that you both are going to be here, the school is more protected than ever."

On second thought, the plan wasn't as bad as Sirius thought. Still, shocking the public with all this information could be a double edged sword. Having the element of surprise would help them greatly. Dumbledore however was wary of her idea. The war with Voldemort had always been subtle, and he had tried his best to keep most of the carnage form the public. He still believed that telling them too much would cause a country wide panic. Then again, maybe if the people knew exactly what they were dealing with, they would finally recognize the threat that a revived Voldemort posed.

"I warn you Lily, this may very well end up biting us all on our bums. Nevertheless, with you alive to tell the people what really happened on the night you died we could really win this thing. I'll fire call the Ministry and the press now. Sirius, why don't you tell Severus, and Harri of the plan? Lily, I'll need you to go with Remus to retrieve the affidavit from the Gringotts, as well as fetching the notary. We'll reconvene in the Great Hall in two hours. Don't be late."

Sirius had already transformed into Snuffles and was waiting for Lily. Lily and Dumbledore exchanged a glance before she hid her identity with charms again. Sirius could tell that they wanted to talk privately, and the conversation would not be pretty. One never angered a mother, and Dumbledore had gone above and beyond angering Lily with his good intentions. He did not envy the Headmaster one bit. While everyone else may have been able to excuse his behavior, Lily was angriest of all because she had trusted him with her child's life. Sirius wondered if she would be able to forgive him. In time, all wounds healed. The betrayal Lily felt now would eventually go away, and she knew this better than anyone.

Sirius licked her hand as she guided them both out of the door. Now that James was gone, he had no one but Remus, Lily and Harri left. He was already working on his relationship with Severus, so helping to repair one more broken relationship shouldn't be too hard. A mother's heart was a strange thing indeed. He just hoped that Lily didn't endanger herself or others in her quest for vengeance. Dumbledore had to be held responsible for his actions, but the true culprit was the Dark Lord. She should save her wrath for the man responsible for all of their pain. They would all survive this, come hell or high water. It was always darkest before dawn as they say.

"I pray that your words ring true Snuffles. As long as there is hope there will be a world worth fighting for. I will do anything to protect my loved ones, and I know you would too."

Sirius regarded his redheaded friend with a strange look. His frown looked peculiar on his canine face.

"Hey now don't get mad at me! You were broadcasting too loudly. It's no wonder Nia thinks you have a big mouth!"

Lily giggled running away from her now canine friend. With a yip of glee Sirius chased after her. Yes, they were going to be alright indeed.

Footnotes: That's it! I know it has been forever since I last updated but I had writer's block! I hope you all forgive me… Not too worry though, because I have already begun writing chapter 24! I know that I didn't get to everything, but it's coming, so patience people. In the next chapter, Hermione's secret admirer interferes with her attempts to follow Ron. Severus accidentally tells Nia a long forgotten secret. As Narcissa reminisces with a former lover Draco and Harri eavesdrop. Meanwhile, Pansy and Rona re finally confronted! I guarantee an update before the end of August! Thanks to all who read and reviewed and I will see you next update. PLEASE REVIEW! Peace!