Harry pulled himself out of bed with great reluctance the following morning. His head ached and he felt like he hadn’t slept at all. He didn’t know how he managed to clean up and change into his uniform without waking his dorm mates but he was grateful that he did. The last time he was this lethargic was when he had the vision of Nagini attacking Mr. Weasley and he certainly didn’t want anyone thinking he had another one of those dreams.

“See?” Sirius cried. “Look how he gets after just one session of Snivellus probing in his head!”

“Sirius,” Lily said annoyed. “I will not repeat myself. Snape is on our side. Dumbledore trusts him.”

“Maybe he shouldn’t,” Sirius mumbled annoyed.

After grabbing his schoolbag and filled it with what he would need for the day, Harry left for the Great Hall and another day of grueling classes. The halls were quiet and empty urging Harry to look at his watch to see that it was only half past six. No wonder he was so tired. Harry let out a groan as he continued walking. Well, at least he could read some more in his Occlumency book before the Great Hall became too crowded.

It was about three quarters of an hour before anyone from Gryffindor entered the Great Hall allowing Harry to read at least a chapter before stashing the book back in his bag. After last night Harry had come to the conclusion that the theory behind Occlumency could only help so much but the fact that it was helping was enough incentive for him to keep reading. Besides, what was he supposed to do? Ask Professor Snape for help on theory? Yeah right.

“Like he would help,” Remus snorted.

Surprisingly Fred and George were among the first Gryffindors to enter and sat down with Harry between them. Ron and Hermione arrived shortly after and sat across from Harry and started engaging in small talk. Soon enough owls started to arrive with issues of the ‘Daily Prophet’. Harry was surprised to see an issue dropped in front of Hermione. Since when did she have a subscription?

It didn’t take long for Hermione to devour the front page and let out a startled yelp which got the attention of everyone nearby. “I don’t believe it!” she exclaimed as she turned the newspaper around so Harry could see the front page. “Azkaban has been attacked! Ten Death Eaters have broken out!”

Harry could only stare at the ten black-and-white photographs (nine wizards and one witch) that covered the front page. There were names underneath each picture along with the reason they had been sent to the prison. Antonin Dolohov had murdered Gideon and Fabian Prewett (members of the Order in the last war). Algernon Rookwood had passed on Ministry secrets to Voldemort. The list went on until Harry reached the one witch that he had been warned about from Sirius. She was Sirius’ cousin, Bellatrix Lestrange who had participated in the torturing of Frank and Alice Longbottom into insanity.

“You know, Bella’s fate does not surprise me,” Sirius drawled. “She always was psycho. It’s a miracle I am so normal.”

The other four occupants of the room stared at him. From the corner of her mouth Mrs. Potter asked, “Did he just say he was normal?”

“I am afraid so,” James answered. “He is in denial-oof!” James glared at Sirius as he shoved away the pillow that just hit him.

 If that wasn’t enough, the headline really surprised Harry.

MASS BREAKOUT FROM AZKABAN
PUBLIC QUESTIONS FUDGE’S PERSISTANCE
THAT YOU-KNOW-WHO HASN’T RETURNED

Harry grabbed the newspaper from Hermione and started to read the article with Fred and George leaning closer to catch a glimpse.

The Ministry of Magic announced late last night that there has been a mass breakout from Azkaban.

The Minister of Magic himself confirmed that ten high-security prisoners escaped in the early hours of yesterday evening but insists that He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Name is not behind the breakout. This, of course, was met with a high amount of doubt among those who were present at the announcement.

Remus slapped his forehead and slumped back on the bed shaking his head. “You’d think he would try to cover his losses by starting to act wouldn’t you?” he moaned.

“Cornelius Fudge doesn’t act, he reacts, and usually badly,” Mrs. Potter sniffed disapprovingly. “That’s all he’s ever done. He has never taken action in his life and apparently never will. How he became Minister is a mystery.”

Cornelius Fudge is already under scrutiny for his appointment of Dolores Umbridge, former Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts, when it was revealed that she had only been placed to instill Fudge’s beliefs into the minds of the students. Many have begun to wonder if Headmaster Albus Dumbledore and Harry Potter have been right all along in their fight to announce You-Know-Who’s return in order to prepare the public.

“You’re still wondering?” James cried distressed. “Stop wandering and act people!”

“There is no proof that You-Know-Who has returned or was behind the breakout,” the Minister said last night. “For all we know Peter Pettigrew is trying to gather his associates to avenge their fallen master.”

“Okay,” Lily said rubbing her temple. “I do concede the point that apparently Peter has- er- surprised us all-  but plan, and accomplish a mass break out of Azkaban? Peter Pettigrew? Are you serious?”

“Shush,” Remus told Sirius putting his index finger on Sirius’ mouth.

“But-“

“Shush, don’t even go there. That pun was already old when your Great-grandfather tried to use it,” Remus said flatly. Sirius scowled.

Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, Amelia Bones refused to comment on the Minister’s reluctance to consider that You-Know-Who has returned. “We are following every lead we receive,” declared Bones. “No possibility is being overlooked at the current time. For the current time, it is recommended to exercise extreme caution with so many dangerous individuals on the loose. If one of the escapees is spotted, do not approach.”

Turning the page, Harry noticed that there was an article on Umbridge’s sentencing however the news was now bittersweet. Umbridge was nothing when compared to ten Death Eaters who were now free and back with their master. Harry handed back the paper and stole a glance at Neville who was looking rather pale as he read his own newspaper. He couldn’t imagine what Neville was going through at the moment. At least I know what Voldemort was happy about now.

“See, Voldemort’s happiness had nothing to do with Snape,” Lily pointed out triumphantly.

“He’s still a git though,” James said.

“But a git that is on our side,” Lily said wisely. James just shrugged.

“Well, at least someone is starting to realize what an idiot Fudge is,” Fred said with a shrug of the shoulders. “All I can say is it’s about time and what were you reading on the second page, Harry?”

Harry took a sip of his pumpkin juice trying to ignore the curious stares around him. “Umbridge’s sentencing was announced last night,” he said casually. He had to admit that with the breakout he was curious to whether Umbridge would actually end up in Azkaban or not. Fudge may insist that it isn’t safe enough for his pet.

“That would be career suicide and Fudge wouldn’t do that,” Sirius snorted. “No, he made that quite clear with all this nonsense.”

Hermione quickly opened the newspaper and found the article. “Four years?” she asked in amazement. “Er—wow! I glad she’s finally penalized for what she did to you, Harry.”

By the end of the day rumors had flooded the halls of the convicts escape and current location. Those who had been raised in wizarding families made it their mission to educate those who weren’t in how vicious the escapees were. Those who had relatives of victims from the Death Eaters became instant celebrities. It was a welcomed change for Harry but not those who had a constant grouping of students asking what had happened to their families. Many of the now popular students found a way to corner Harry and ask how he managed to stand all of the attention and rude comments. Telling him that after five years he still couldn’t stand it wasn’t what they wanted to hear.

When Wednesday evening arrived, Harry managed to shock the Council into silence by announcing that members of the staff would be present for the next D.A. meeting. That certainly took everyone’s thoughts off the Death Eater breakout. There would be another brief overview for the teachers before starting protection charms. Neville and Hannah volunteered for covering the overview, Justin and Ginny would be covering countering oncoming spells while Cho and Luna would cover deflecting oncoming spells. If there was still time, Harry would begin on manipulating protection spells to increase their power.

For nearly three hours the Council researched, planned and practiced the areas they would be covering. They all were extremely nervous and wanted to have everything right. The four Heads of Houses would be present on behalf of their students along with Professor Dumbledore and Sirius. If the group was going to be made public there would be a lot of questions that would need to be answered. Would there be an age limit? Would the Council remain? Would the current members of the Council remain?

“And I can predict one question, or more like a sneered comment Snivellus will make,” Remus said with a grimace.

It was enough to make anyone’s head spin.

The following night Harry had Occlumency once again but this time Sirius wasn’t as quick to intervene as he had been before. From the looks Sirius and Professor Snape were giving each other it was easy to assume that something had been said since Monday night. Harry didn’t know if it was the ‘mother hen’ comment Snape made or not but it was clear that Sirius was ready to hex his former classmate at a moment’s notice throughout the lesson.

“Oh Harry,” Sirius said waving his hand. “I’m always ready to hex Snivellus. Comment or no comment.”

“We know,” Lily huffed.

“As I’ve already said, he gives as much as he gets,” James defended Sirius.

“But don’t you think that maybe just maybe, if you didn’t hex him all the time he could be a little less bitter?” she asked.

James studied her and then he looked around and shrugged, “I doubt it.”

“But Ja-“

“I hate to say this,” Mrs. Potter cut Lily off, “Because it sounds as if I condone your behavior James, which I don’t,” she gave James a firm look. “But James does have a point. Snape acts like this with everyone. Hundreds of children are bullied in school. It’s not nice but it’s how things have always been. It’s part of being a child. And most of those children who were bullied don’t grow up bitter towards everyone, which is how Snape is. He concentrates on Harry but frankly from what I’ve seen he only spares his Slytherins. The boys can’t be the only reason he is like that but he is childish enough to make it look like they are and take out whatever made him be like that on someone who wasn’t even born when you were at school.”

“She does have a point,’” Remus said. “I know you can’t expect us to  be best friends but many people who hated each other when children are capable of having civilized relationships in adulthood.”

“Okay,” Lily conceded. “But I still think you should stop.”

The lesson hadn’t gone as bad as it could have but there had really been no improvement on Harry’s part. It wasn’t because of a lack of effort. Harry just couldn’t manage to push Professor Snape out quick enough once the teacher accessed his memories. The Potions Master did happen to mention that it was impressive for someone like Harry to be able to keep someone out for as long as he did but quickly added that it didn’t matter unless the attacker could be kept out at all times.

Typical Snape to counter a complement with an insult.

With Harry’s next Occlumency lesson scheduled for Sunday night, he could focus on the D.A. meeting which arrived faster than he expected. He had arrived to the Room of Requirement early with the rest of the Council, all of them looking extremely nervous. They had just finished setting up when students started to arrive with smiles on their faces and talking excitedly to each other. There was no incentive to be quiet any longer with Umbridge gone.

The students took their usual seats on the cushions around the room with the Council standing in the middle and Harry standing off to the side near the door. With a nod from Harry, Cho stepped forward to address the group. “With the current changes Professor Dumbledore has made, our group has been revealed to the teaching staff,” Cho said with as much confidence as she could muster. “Tonight the Heads of the Houses, Professor Dumbledore and Professor Black will be observing the meeting. We are not in trouble. They are just curious to the progress that we have made.”

“Even Professor Snape?” Ron asked skeptically.

Sirius eagerly pointed at the book giving the others significant looks. The others just rolled their eyes.

“Even Professor Snape,” Harry confirmed. “The teachers are here to observe only. The meeting will operate as it normally would. It would be best if you all just ignore their presence. They are not coming to evaluate you individually. They are coming to observe the D.A. as a group and the benefits of it. With the current state of things I’m sure the idea of students learning how to defend themselves is on the mind of every current teacher.”

“Yeah, like that will make them calm,” James snorted.

“There is no way they won’t be self-conscious with all those teachers there,” Lily agreed.

“Everyone pair off,” Neville said taking over. “We will start with a basic review before starting on different protection charms.”

Once everyone paired off, Neville and Hannah began running through what they had already learned. It wasn’t too long before Harry heard a knock on the door and opened quietly it to see Sirius smiling at him. He motioned for the Defense teacher to be quiet then stepped aside so everyone could enter. The six adults entered and saw the students currently practicing with Hannah Abbott and Neville Longbottom instructing them.

“They are currently reviewing,” Harry said quietly to the staff as he silently asked for six chairs which appeared instantly. “Please take a seat. We will be covering protection charms today. Everyone has been told to carry on as if you weren’t here. I hope that’s all right.”

“That’s fine, Harry,” Professor Dumbledore said pleasantly. “We’re not here to intrude, simply observe the learning environment you and the Council have created.”

Harry nodded before moving to the back of the room and observed like he normally did. He knew that if he stood anywhere else he would be a distraction since everyone tended to listen to Harry above anyone in the Council. Harry could only assume it was because he had already faced what they were preparing themselves to face. It was something that Harry really didn’t like the fact that everyone would ignore the Council if he were to step out of the shadows and focus on him but he really didn’t know how to change it.

Once the review was complete, Cho and Luna started with how to deflect spells. Transfiguring object into mirrors, casting spells of equal power at an angle to divert the spell and summoning objects to block the spell were covered. Everyone sat down and took a cushion and tried to transfigure it into a mirror with Harry, Cho and Luna helping those who were having difficulties. This had been something Professor McGonagall had taught Harry before his third year. It wasn’t difficult but the wand movements had to be precise. Once everyone had succeeded, everyone lined up into three rows and had to divert spells that Harry, Cho and Luna cast. The spells started off with the levitation spell and ended with the stunning spell. When everyone had their turn they worked on the Summoning Charm to block spells. The Weasley twins had everyone laughing when Fred summoned George and used him as a shield. That wasn’t what Cho and Luna had in mind but it worked.

Justin and Ginny then took over with countering spells. They only covered a few before Dobby popped in with trays of pumpkin juice and water for anyone who was thirsty. Once everyone had had their fill, Harry thanked Dobby before suggesting he ask the observing teachers if they needed anything. Dobby hurried over to Sirius, bouncing happily that ‘Harry Potter’s dog has come back to Hogwarts’. This caused Professor Snape to nearly spit out his drink while the rest of the teachers chuckled quietly. They had never heard Sirius referred as Harry Potter’s dog before.

Sirius crossed his arms and sniffed, “So what?”

You could see the other four jaws quivering as they tried hard not to laugh.

“That isn’t funny!”

They lost it and laughter was heard.

“Hey, you’re just jealous!”

Returning back to Justin and Ginny, the D.A. worked on countering the stunning spell. After twenty minutes of practice only a few people had managed to counter the spell but it gave everyone something to work on for next week. Glancing at his watch, Harry noticed that it was nearly curfew and motioned as much to Ginny and Justin with a hand signaling system the Council had devised to prevent interruptions. Justin and Ginny nodded and stepped aside as Harry once again stepped out of the shadows.

“Good work tonight, everyone,” Harry said as he joined Justin and Ginny. “Remember, just because we are beginning to learn more advanced topics there is no reason to forget the basics. As you have learned tonight the basics can be used in a duel, even the basics can save a life. If you have any questions, you know who to talk to. I recommend you all be off before anyone in our audience decides to hand out detention.”

Everyone immediately looked at Professor Snape before they thanked the Council and hurried out before any of the teachers could follow through on Harry’s threat. The Council stubbornly stayed by Harry’s side although looking slightly uneasy. Harry was glad that they stayed behind. He really didn’t want to face the teaching staff alone, especially Professor Snape.

Professor Dumbledore was the first to rise from his seat. “I must say I am amazed with how well the seven of you are in instructing your peers. I can not speak for your Heads of Houses but I see no reason that such a beneficial group should not continue. It appears that the ‘hands on’ approach is exactly what the upperclassmen need to learn properly, wouldn’t you agree, Sirius?”

“You know I do, Headmaster,” Sirius said evenly. “That was the reason I brought this group to your attention in the first place.”

 

“I noticed there weren’t any Slytherins in the group, Potter,” Professor Snape said coolly.

“I hate to be right,” Remus sighed.

“Since when?” James asked.

“That is definitely a new development, Prongs. Because last time I checked Moony loved being right and rubbing it on our faces,” Sirius said nodding. Remus smacked him on the face with a pillow. Sirius looked shocked and pointed at James. Remus sighed but nodded and promptly threw a pillow on James too.

Harry let out a sigh. “Hermione contacted everyone with the idea of the group, Professor,” he said truthfully. “At the time, Umbridge was still a teacher here so participation was limited to individuals who we could trust to remain silent. With the events at the beginning of the year you have to admit that I’m not the person a Slytherin would turn to. Malfoy has the majority of the fifth year Slytherins wrapped around his finger and he has made his opinions of me quite clear. Would you approach those who made it their mission to make your life miserable?”

“He has a point, Severus,” Professor Flitwick said as he jumped off his chair. “Don’t blame the boy for playing it safe. Miss Granger apparently had that in mind when she sought out participants.” The Charms Professor approached the Council with a bright smile on his face.

“They are trying to reason with Snape,” Sirius moaned. “Like that will help!”

 

“You all have my support. It was refreshing to see no barriers between the houses that are involved. I could only hope that you will open the group publicly so more of my Ravenclaws may benefit from such an experience.”

Harry suddenly grew nervous. It was one thing to have the staff’s support but to allow everyone in the school to join wasn’t something Harry was prepared to do. “I don’t mean to deny anyone the benefit of learning but I don’t think we could have the same results,” he said truthfully. “I think it’s the personal instruction that is the reason why everyone is responding to the group. We really couldn’t do that if the group were to be made public.”

“You could if you added more members to your teaching group, Mr. Potter,” Professor McGonagall offered. “Granted, adding new members would halt your progression for a few weeks at most. I think many fifth and seventh year students could benefit from this group for the OWLs and NEWTs.”

“Which was the main reason Granger sought us out to begin with,” Hannah said softly. “The D.A. isn’t our group. Everyone who was here tonight has an equal say in everything. That was one of the reasons Harry suggested representatives from each house. If anyone wants to learn something or has a question on something, they tell their representative and then the Council discusses how to present it at the meetings. We can’t make such a decision without talking to the group but do you honestly think those who are not involved will take us seriously?”

Professor Snape rose from his seat. “If you’re referring to the Slytherins—”

“Oh Snape, shush,” Mrs. Potter admonished. “The world doesn’t revolve around Slytherin!”

“—Severus,” Professor Dumbledore lightly warned before addressing everyone. “I can see the reasoning for the staff’s eagerness and the Council’s reluctance to make the D.A. public. Although we would encourage to see all students be allowed this opportunity we must respect the wishes of those who would be most affected by the change. We can not fault them for decisions that were made based on circumstances that they had no control over. It is clear that every member of the D.A. is comfortable in the environment they have gone out of their way to create.” Dumbledore turned to the Council. “We will respect your decision at the moment but please keep the option of making the D.A. available to all students in mind. The only matter I wish to change is the lack of a faculty supervisor, especially when you start on the more difficult topics.”

“Oh, Moony could supervise,” James cried delighted.

“Yes, after all he was the best DADA teacher ever,” Lily agreed.

Sirius looked shocked. With his mouth open in silent outraged he waved his hand frantically pointing at the chattering duo that was already making a list of how Remus would be perfect.

Remus cleared his throat, “I think Sirius would be a better option since he is the DADA teacher.”

“Yeah,” Sirius huffed.

James stared confused, “Oh yeah,” he shrugged. “I forgot. Can you blame me? Forgetting Padfoot joined the enemy?”

“Hey!”

“I know,” Lily sighed dramatically. “We never want to be reminded of how low our loved ones have sunk.”

“Hey!”

“Relax Sirius,” Mrs. Potter chuckled. “They were having you on from the start.”

Sirius glared at the laughing couple, “How such evil people can have such a sweet kid is beyond me!” he said raising his hands in defeat.

The Council members nodded reluctantly. They were happy that Professor Dumbledore would allow the D.A. to continue but they had mixed feelings about a faculty supervisor. Until now they had the freedom to choose the topics covered. It’s not like we are learning anything we shouldn’t be learning. The question is will the supervisor approve of the intensity of the topics? Harry was aware that there had been some aspects were above the OWL level but no one had complained.

Professor Dumbledore’s voice pulled Harry out of his thoughts. “We thank the seven of you for allowing us to observe your group,” the Headmaster said pleasantly. “We will be in touch concerning a possible supervisor. Now, I suggest you all head to your houses before the hour grows too late.”

Together the Council bid farewell and left the Room of Requirement. The moment the door closed behind them, they all let out a relieved sigh. Being held under the gazes of so many teachers at one time was certainly unnerving. The six representatives all turned and looked at Harry who could only stare at the closed door. He had known that the meeting hadn’t gone the way the staff had obviously wanted but he couldn’t help the feeling that giving in would only cause more problems.

“Are you okay Harry?” Cho asked softly.

Harry turned his attention to the six pairs of concerned eyes. “Was it the right thing?” he asked. “Was it right to deny others the chance to improve themselves?”

“Harry, it’s not our responsibility to teach everyone how to defend themselves,” Ginny said bluntly. “This started out as a group of friends getting together for a group study in magical defense and that’s what it still is. Personally, I think you made a very good point. We wouldn’t have the same results of the group was made public. The one on one tutoring is what makes the group so successful. You made the right decision.”

“Yes, besides, if Dumbledore’s previous choices for teachers hadn’t been so…er…eclectic, they wouldn’t need to have the DA,” Remus nodded.

“Umbridge wasn’t Dumbledore’s fault,” Mrs. Potter pointed out.

“She may not have been but from what we gathered the two first DADA teachers were anything but competent,” Lily said.

“Yeah, and one had Voldemort sharing his head with him,” James shuddered.

“Let’s just hope the supervisor isn’t Snape,” Neville said with a shudder causing everyone to laugh then continue their way to their houses to inform the members of the D.A. what had happened. Some things would never change and Neville’s fear of Professor Snape was one of them.

---

It didn’t take the teaching staff long to come up with a suitable supervisor for the Defense Association. To avoid any favoritism, it was decided that an actual teacher should not supervise which resulted in Remus being the best choice for the position.

Sirius glared at Remus. Remus tried his best to remain cool but he was jumping in glee inside.

“Oh, Sirius,” Mrs. Potter tried to placate the boy. “The kids were just kidding before but there is a point here. The students will be more relaxed with someone that has no say on their grades.”

Sirius shrugged and glared once more at Remus for good measure.

The entire Council was ecstatic since Remus was the very person they were modeling their instruction after. There were many in the D.A. who had already spoken to Remus in private, especially Hermione and the Weasleys so everyone was comfortable with the former teacher’s attendance.

“See?” Sirius pouted. “They like Moony better. They even model stuff after him.”

“Because when they created the DA they hadn’t had you as a teacher yet,” Remus said patting Sirius back.

“STILL!” Sirius moaned.

There was no doubt that Remus’ calming presence for the students to confide in was exactly what many needed. Students had indeed turned to the former teacher whether it was to vent their frustrations, ask for guidance, or just to talk to someone who would simply listen. Remus had been given an office near the Marauder’s Quarters where he met with those who wanted to talk. It was amazing that in just a week any presence of Dolores Umbridge had been nearly erased.

Remus ended up giving the D.A. more freedom than the Council had expected and they were thankful for it. He offered his assistance during the Council meetings and his input when asked during the D.A. meetings but other than that he took up an observatory role. Remus had been insistent in the belief that he didn’t want to disrupt the environment the D.A. had already created regardless of how many times members wanted to involve him. All in all the D. A. operated much like it had before Christmas break.

“Perfect Moony,” Sirius mumbled.

“Someone is jealous and in need of a nap,” Lily said in a sing song voice.

“Am not! I’m not five!”

“Then start acting more maturely. Remus was the best choice even though you are a good teacher,” Lily said firmly.

Sirius shrugged. “Okay,” he mumbled but then added, “But I am Harry’s dog. Not Moony.”

Remus nodded seriously doing his best not to laugh.

With Quidditch starting again, Harry had barely enough time to finish his homework much less worry about the matters happening beyond the walls of Hogwarts. He had Occlumency two nights a week, D.A. two nights a week, Quidditch two nights a week, leaving one night to finish everything he couldn’t finish on the nights he had something going on. It was becoming difficult for Harry to keep up with his Occlumency study without anyone becoming suspicious leaving Harry to study either late at night or early in the morning.

Due to his lack of free time, Harry had to resort to arriving early for Defense class for talks with Sirius and staying behind during the D.A. meetings for a word with Remus. Both of his guardians seemed to be enjoying their new positions immensely. Sirius had made it his mission to ready the students for their end of the year tests providing both theoretical and practical learning that quickly made Defense Against the Dark Arts the most favored class at Hogwarts.

“See,” James said. “Still a favorite.”

Sirius pout diminished considerably and he even puffed his chest a little.

As January faded into February, the Ministry had followed through with their declaration by sending a representative (Madam Stiles) to observe classes. According to Sirius, the woman had been a younger version of Professor McGonagall in personality and temperament. For the first day the woman had observed first and second year classes taught by Sirius, Professor Snape, Professor McGonagall, and Professor Sprout. She also sat down with Remus to discuss his position. The following day, Madam Stiles observed third year classes taught by Hagrid, Professor Vector, Professor Trelawney, and Professor Sinistra. During the two days she also took time to observe ‘student life’ by attending meals and strolling the hallways, asking students random questions about their time at Hogwarts. Nothing was really said about her visit once she left and after a few weeks of silence, everyone figured the teaching staff must have passed their evaluations although how Professor Snape managed to pass no one knew.

“He must know his potions since he couldn’t have passed based on his nurturing teaching stile,” Remus said.

With the arrival of the long awaited Hogsmeade weekend along with wetter and warmer weather, everyone who could was eager to have a day away from the school. It also happened that it was Valentine's Day which turned out to be quite a headache for Harry. Girls he had never noticed before were asking him if he wanted to go to the wizarding village with them forcing Harry to decline as politely as he could. Sirius, Remus and his close friends found Harry’s dilemma hilarious which only made Harry more frustrated. In the end, Harry, Ron and Hermione agreed that they would spend their time at Hogsmeade together with Sirius and Remus shadowing them…just in case.

They arrived at Hogsmeade as the stores were opening and quickly fell into the normal best friend banter that had been absent for so long. Ron and Hermione would bicker about some unimportant topic, Harry would break them up before suggesting another topic and soon enough they were arguing about that. Normally Harry would find the constant arguing annoying but today it was the distraction he needed. It was also hilarious to hear some of the defenses Ron came up with when Hermione had the argument all but won.

Needing a break, the three teenagers with the two adults following them ventured into Three Broomsticks. After finding a table and purchasing drinks in the busy pub, Ron and Harry started talking about their upcoming Qudditch match against Hufflepuff with Sirius while Hermione and Remus engaged in a quiet discussion about the upcoming OWLs. It was only February and Hermione was already starting to panic about not being prepared.

“I think Hermione must be related to Moony somehow,” James said.

“James!” Mrs. Potter scolded. “Remus isn’t that bad!”

“Yes, he is,” Sirius chuckled and then launched himself at Remus. “But we love our bookworm.”

“I am not a bookworm. Only because unlike you and James I happen to be literate does not make me a bookworm.”

“Oohhh, big words,” Sirius said and Remus banged a pillow on his forehead.

Out of nowhere a bright flash filled the pub temporarily blinding everyone at and around Harry’s table causing Sirius to protectively grab Harry and push him underneath the table. People shouted in complaint at what could only be a wizarding camera taking a picture in the middle of a crowded pup. Furiously blinking, Harry’s vision slowly returned to normal allowing him to pull himself out from underneath the table as a familiar voice filled his ears.

“Harry Potter!” exclaimed an exited Rita Skeeter who already had her quill and parchment in hand.

Moans were heard.

She was wearing bright yellow robes that certainly made her stand out in the crowd. Her photographer was already raising his camera for another picture. “Fancy meeting you here, with Sirius Black and Remus Lupin no less!”

Remus quickly grabbed the camera from the photographer as Sirius rested a protective hand on Harry’s shoulder. The photographer tried to take his camera back but a fierce growl from Remus halted his attempts. “We have nothing to say to you, Rita,” Sirius said tensely, “and don’t you dare attempt to play dumb. The entire village is aware that this is a student weekend. No one stalks my godson so leave.”

“Yeah, be smart. Leave!” Lily said firmly.

There was a tense silence before Rita regained her bearings and tried another approach. “Now, now, Mr. Black,” she said sweetly. “The public has a right to know how the-boy-who-lived is coping with the latest events. The Minister of Magic is currently facing an inquiry from the Wizegamot and may be possibly voted out of office. Mr. Potter was the first to stand against the Ministry. Is a few moments of your time really too much to ask?”

“Hum, yes,” James said in a voice that cleared stated he thought Skeeter was an annoyance.

Harry’s eyes widened at the statement. Why would anyone think he would have anything to say about Fudge? Because you’re a bloody celebrity that everyone follows like a flock of birds. It was sad that people would listen to what a fifteen-year-old had to say about something he had no knowledge about when they wouldn’t listen to Professor Dumbledore concerning Voldemort’s return.

“When it interferes with his personal freedoms?” Remus countered as he opened the back of the camera, exposing the film to the light. “Yes, it is too much to ask. We have nothing to say to you, Rita, and we will not allow your nosy photographer to steal pictures of him.” He tossed the camera back to the outraged photographer as he glanced at Sirius and shifted his gaze to the door. Sirius nodded and moved behind Harry and Ron while Remus rested a hand on Hermione’s shoulder. “Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’ll be on our way.”

“GO MOONY!” Sirius cried. “You tell her!”

Harry let Sirius usher him out of the pub trying to ignore all the stares he was receiving. Some were looking at him with pity in their eyes, others were awestruck and others were just curious. Harry didn’t know which looks he hated more. Definitely the looks of pity.By the time they stepped out on the street Harry wanted nothing more than to hide, especially when the reason they left followed them out.

“Mr. Black,” Rita said as she moved in front of Harry and Ron, blocking their path. “Now I’m sure we can work something out.” She smiled softly at him, a smile that Harry had never seen on her face before. “Perhaps if Mr. Potter isn’t available to comment you could in his place. The public would love to hear what the infamous Sirius Black has to say about the man who worked so hard to keep you away from your godson. This could be your chance to set the record straight.”

“As tempting as that would be I have to decline,” Sirius said firmly. “Perhaps when you stop prying into people’s personal lives they’ll be more willing to comment.”

“He, he,” Mrs. Potter chuckled. “I bet she loved that.”

Rita’s smile stayed on her face as she stepped closer, forcing Harry and Ron to step aside. It was clear that Sirius was trying extremely hard to keep his temper in check as Rita rested a hand on Sirius’ chest. “I’ll take that under advisement, Mr. Black,” she said softly. “Just remember that the offer for a private interview is always open.”

All five of them had disgusted looks on their faces and Sirius started gagging.

“Oh God! Help! I need a disinfecting bath!” he cried hysterically brushing his chest as if to clean it. Remus and James were at his side rubbing his back in an instant.

Harry’s eyebrows shot up as his jaw dropped. He couldn’t believe it! Rita Skeeter—the life ruining reporter for the Daily Prophet was flirting with Sirius? Rita Skeeter! Harry thought he was going to be sick. When he had mentioned to Sirius about finding a girlfriend this wasn’t what he had in mind. Ron and Hermione looked equally shocked at the bold approach Rita was taking while Remus looked like he was trying hard to stop himself from laughing.

“Moony! Don’t laugh at my disgrace!”

“Sorry Padfoot.”

Sirius pushed away Rita’s hand as his temper finally got the better of him. “I wouldn’t go anywhere private with you, Rita,” he said through his teeth. “You have done nothing but write of how Remus and I are nothing more than an ex-convict and a werewolf for the past few years.”

“Yeah, you disgusting woman! Don’t touch me again!”

Rita stared at Sirius in disbelief. “Mr. Black, I’m a reporter,” she said pompously. “It is my job to report on current events. You are an ex-convict and Mr. Lupin is a werewolf. Anyone would question what child should be raised in that sort of environment.”

Sirius moved over to Harry, never taking his eyes off of Rita. “You may be a reporter but I’m a man looking out for my adoptive son,” he said leaving no room for argument. “One has to wonder what sort of paper the ‘Daily Prophet’ is to ignore a person’s right to privacy by publishing your writing on Harry’s personal life. A word to the wise, Miss Skeeter, I’m not afraid of the Ministry and I’m certainly not afraid of you or your paper. Leave Harry alone or you’ll find yourself at the receiving end of a lawsuit. Harry is underage and therefore allowed the right to privacy.”

“HAH! I am afraid of no one!” Sirius cried.

“Really,” Mrs. Potter raised an eyebrow.

“Except you Mrs. P,” Sirius said properly cowed.

“But he’s the-boy-who-lived!” Rita protested. “With the title comes obligations to the public!”

Harry froze at the comment, his body tensing. It was too similar to something Umbridge had told him during detention. Why did everyone believe that he owed them for a title that he never wanted, especially considering the fact that they didn’t believe what had happened last June? Wait a minute! No one had other than the Order had actually heard about what happened after the third task. Could it work? Could he use his ‘celebrity status’ to help the Order?

“I believe you have that backwards,” Remus said firmly. “I believe the public has an obligation to Harry.”

“He, he,” Lily laughed. “Go Moony!”

“What is your paper’s position concerning Fudge?” Harry asked curiously.

“Hum, Harry, what are you doing?” James asked worried.

Everyone stared at Harry in surprise. “Er—well…it all depends on the results of the inquiry, Mr. Potter,” Rita said carefully. “Why?”

Harry just shrugged his shoulders. “Well, I was just thinking that I could offer you the story of a lifetime,” he said casually which instantly peaked Rita’s interests. “The actual events that happened after Cedric and I disappeared from the maze.” He felt Sirius’ grip on his shoulder tighten slightly. “I could tell you how Cedric actually died, Voldemort’s rebirth and names of the Death Eaters who were present but if your paper is too afraid of the Minister and his desperate attempt to hide the truth from the public then I really can’t help you.”

“Harry,” Sirius warned softly as he tightened his grip on Harry’s shoulder. “What are you doing? Didn’t you see what she just did to me?”

‘Yes, didn’t you!” Sirius cried hysterically brushing his chest again.

Harry looked over his shoulder at his godfather. “I’m using it to our advantage,” he said softly.

Rita Skeeter looked like she was mentally fighting with herself on what to do. This was the story that could make or break her career. With the current events people were bound to believe anything Harry had to say but if his story confirmed Dumbledore’s, the ‘Daily Prophet’ would be in a world of trouble if Fudge wasn’t removed from office. A smile slowly formed on her face but it wasn’t the smile she had given Sirius. It was the smile that usually meant that she was up to something.

“There is a catch though,” Harry said quickly. “You have to print the complete truth. You can’t twist my words or spin the story any way you feel like it. Also, Sirius and Remus must proofread the story before it’s published. Any fabrication and you will find yourself out of a job and the ‘Daily Prophet’ will be hit with so many lawsuits that they will never be able to publish a paper again. If you don’t feel that the ‘Daily Prophet’ will publish the truth, I know someone who has connections to ‘The Quibbler’.”

“Oh good,” Lily sighed relieved. “He has a plan. I was worried there for a minute.”

“We all were,” Mrs. Potter agreed.

Rita Skeeter scowled, clearly not liking Harry’s restrictions but her curiosity was too peeked to ignore. “Fine,” she said in annoyance. “I agree to your terms. When and where?

Harry looked over his shoulder at Sirius who couldn’t keep a grin off his face. “I think I know just the place,” he said then glanced at Ron and Hermione. “This may take a while so perhaps you two should head back to the castle.”

Ron and Hermione instantly shook their heads. “We don’t care how long it takes, Professor,” Hermione insisted. “We want to support Harry. Plus, wouldn’t it help to have a few more witnesses just in case? I mean—no offense—but I really don’t trust her.”

“Smart girl,” Remus nodded,

“I don’t either,” Remus muttered, clearly not as supporting of the idea of Harry revealing what happened to Rita Skeeter.

“Smart man,” Remus said.

“Moony, you can’t call yourself smart!” Sirius said.

“Says who?” Remus asked.

Sirius silenced Remus with a look before leading everyone to the Shrieking Shack. Rita was extremely uncomfortable with being in a place that was supposedly haunted but managed to pull herself together long enough to take out her quick notes quill and being the interview with Remus standing over her shoulder, watching the quill. With Ron and Hermione beside him and Sirius behind him, Harry retold what happened at the graveyard, neglecting certain details that he knew Sirius and Remus didn’t want revealed.

Voldemort’s discovery of the suppression necklace and the outbursts weren’t important to the tale. Harry explained how Cedric died and Voldemort’s rebirth. He revealed that he and Voldemort dueled and he managed to escape when Voldemort had faltered. He also named the Death Eaters who had been mentioned by Voldemort, something that Rita was shocked to hear. Many of the people who financially backed the Minister were among the group.

When the interview was finally over, Rita informed Sirius and Remus that she would provide them with a draft of the article in two days time before leaving. Looking at his friends and guardians, Harry couldn’t help feeling relieved to see proud smiles on their faces. He knew there were no guarantees that it would even be printed but at the moment he had done all he could. Now all he could do was hope that he had done the right thing although in his heart he felt that he had. With even more Death Eaters roaming free, people needed to protect themselves. Hiding was no longer an option.

“That interview sure will be a bomb!” Mrs. Potter said pleased.

“One that will explode right on a certain annoying blond Slytherin’s face,” James said gleefully