Neville burst into the Great Hall, his heart pounding like a drum. The chatter and clinking of breakfast utensils faded as his breathless figure appeared at the entrance. Every pair of eyes turned to him, curiosity rippling through the sea of students and professors.

"Mr. Longbottom?" Professor McGonagall's voice rang with concern. She stood abruptly from the staff table, her sharp eyes scanning Neville's pale, trembling face.

Gathering every ounce of courage, Neville took a deep breath and stepped forward. "It's Harry and Ruby," he began, his voice steady despite the tremor in his hands. "They—they faced Quirrell... and Lord Voldemort."

A collective gasp echoed through the Hall. Students began murmuring to each other in hushed tones.

Professor Snape's expression darkened instantly, and without a word, he swept out of the Hall, his robes billowing behind him like a stormcloud.

Professor McGonagall quickly joined Neville. "What are you talking about, Longbottom? Where are they? Are they safe?"

Neville nodded quickly. "They're alive... but unconscious. Draco, Hermione, and the others are getting them to safety. Quirrell is... gone." He hesitated, his voice dropping. "And Voldemort was there... or his soul was."

At the staff table, Hagrid looked stunned, his large hands clutching his goblet tightly. Professor Sprout and Professor Sinistra shared a glance but remained seated, their role now to calm the panicked students.

Meanwhile, Cormac McLaggen, sitting at the Gryffindor table, exchanged a worried look with Susan Bones and Hannah Abbott at the Hufflepuff table. They had stayed behind the night before, but now their friends' actions were bare in front of the school.

Headmaster Dumbledore stood, his calm demeanor masking the urgency of the situation. "Minerva, Filius, come with me," he said with a quiet authority. Turning to Neville, he added, "Lead the way, Mr. Longbottom."

Neville nodded and quickly retraced his steps, Dumbledore, McGonagall, and Flitwick following closely behind. The urgency in their strides made the watching students hold their breaths.

As they exited the Great Hall, Neville couldn't help but feel a swell of Gryffindor pride. Despite his fear, he had done what was needed. Now, he focused on leading the professors to his friends before it was too late.

Professor Snape stood inside the room, his dark eyes sweeping the scene before him. His gaze first fell on Fluffy, the now-diminutive three-headed dog, curled up and sleeping peacefully while the enchanted harp played its sweet lullaby. A flicker of approval crossed his stoic face—these students had shown remarkable creativity.

The sound of hurried footsteps drew his attention to the corridor. Hermione was the first to appear, her face a mixture of exhaustion and determination. She paused briefly at the sight of the Potions Master but pressed forward. Behind her came Draco, carrying Ruby in his arms as if she weighed nothing. Ruby's face, pale and serene, struck a nerve deep within Snape.

Trailing closely, Blaise Zabini kept a vigilant eye on his friends while Ron and Theodore entered last, half-carrying Harry, who was conscious but visibly drained.

"Put her down here, Draco," Snape instructed, his voice uncharacteristically soft as he pointed to a nearby cleared space. Draco carefully laid Ruby down without hesitation, his concern evident as he hovered near her.

Snape knelt beside Ruby, his practiced hands checking her pulse and examining her for visible injuries. A wave of relief washed over him when he felt the steady rhythm of her heartbeat. Still, her frailty and the faint magical residue around her suggested she had endured something extraordinary.

Looking up, Snape addressed the group, his tone a mixture of sternness and worry. "What in Merlin's name happened here?" His sharp eyes darted to each student, though they softened slightly when they landed on Draco, who stood protectively near Ruby.

Hermione stepped forward, swallowing hard. "Professor, it was Quirrell. He was working for Voldemort... Ruby and Harry confronted him while we stayed behind." Her voice faltered slightly as she added, "They stopped him, but it took a lot out of them."

Snape's jaw clenched at the mention of Voldemort. He turned to examine Harry, noting the boy's equally pale complexion and unsteady stance. Ron and Theodore gently helped Harry sit against the wall, and Blaise quickly offered his cloak as a cushion.

Snape's gaze flickered back to Ruby, his expression darkening with resolve. "You all were foolish to attempt such a thing on your own. Reckless as it was..." He paused, his voice lowering. "You saved lives tonight. But this is far from over."

The sound of approaching footsteps echoed in the corridor, signaling the arrival of Neville, Headmaster Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall, and Professor Flitwick. Snape stood, his face regaining its usual composed mask, though his posture remained protective as he stood beside Ruby.

"They will need immediate care," Snape said firmly, his voice directed at Dumbledore. "Especially Ruby and Potter. Their magic has been strained far beyond their limits."

Dumbledore nodded solemnly, his piercing blue eyes surveying the scene. "We will ensure they receive the care they need. Severus, thank you for being here."

Snape inclined his head but stayed close to Ruby, his concern for the young witch unspoken but palpable. As the professors worked to assess the situation and prepare the students for transport, Snape silently vowed to uncover every detail of what had transpired and to protect Ruby, Harry—and the rest of these students—no matter the cost.

A few days later, the warm sunlight streamed through the tall windows of the Hospital Wing, casting a golden glow over the beds.

Ruby and Harry blinked awake, their surroundings slowly coming into focus. The abundance of flowers, cards, and gifts scattered across the room startled them. Their friends and fellow students addressed each card with gratitude and admiration.

Madam Pomfrey noticed their stirring and bustled over with a relieved smile. "Good, you're both awake. How are you feeling?" she asked, gently examining them. After ensuring they recovered, she added, "I'll inform the Headmaster and Professor Snape immediately. They've been most anxious about you two."

Within moments, the door to the Hospital Wing opened, and Headmaster Dumbledore entered, his expression a mix of calm reassurance and concern. Professor Snape followed closely behind, his stern demeanor concealing the relief that flickered in his dark eyes.

Madam Pomfrey looked at them sternly, ensuring neither overstepped their boundaries. "You may speak with them, but don't overwhelm them," she ordered before leaving to give them privacy.

Dumbledore was the first to speak, his voice gentle. "Harry, Ruby, seeing you both awake is a great comfort. You've been through a tremendous ordeal, but I bring good news. Quirrell is truly gone, and there is no trace of Voldemort anywhere. The Philosopher's Stone was also destroyed at Nicholas Flamel's request, ensuring it cannot be used again for ill purposes."

Harry and Ruby exchanged glances, their relief mirrored in each other's expressions.

Dumbledore's tone grew softer as he addressed their experience. "Do you recall how Quirrell could not touch either of you?" he asked.

Ruby and Harry nodded slowly, their memories hazy but vivid in critical moments.

Dumbledore continued, his eyes twinkling with a mix of wisdom and pride. "Ruby, your love and courage, so pure and selfless, created a powerful magic that shielded you and Harry. Combined with the remnants of your mother's love, Harry, it created a barrier Voldemort could not penetrate. Love, more powerful than any dark magic, protected you both."

Ruby's cheeks flushed slightly at the praise while Harry sat quietly, the weight of his mother's sacrifice settling over him anew.

Snape, who had remained silent, finally stepped forward. His voice was clipped but layered with emotion. "You could have died," he said harshly, his glare piercing. "Foolish, reckless children..." His words trailed off as he exhaled deeply. "But you didn't," he added, his tone softening. "You are alive. That is all that matters."

Dumbledore offered them a kind smile, sensing that they needed rest more than anything. "I will see you both at the End-of-Term Feast," he said warmly, and with a slight nod, he left the room.

Once the door closed, Snape's stern facade faltered. He approached Ruby's bedside, his movements uncharacteristically hesitant. Without a word, he knelt slightly, pulling Ruby into a firm, protective embrace.

Used to Snape's rare display of affection, Ruby relaxed, her head resting against his shoulder. She felt a surge of safety and comfort that eased the lingering fear in her heart.

Sitting up in bed, Harry watched the scene unfold with wide eyes. He had never imagined Snape capable of such tenderness. Although tempted to comment, he decided against it, silently grateful for the unexpected moment of care.

After a long pause, Snape released Ruby and stood, his mask of composure slipping back into place. "Rest," he instructed, his voice softer than usual. "You'll need your strength."

Ruby nodded, her heart warmed by the rare glimpse of Severus Snape's hidden kindness. Harry leaned back on his bed, a small smile tugging at his lips as he closed his eyes, finally allowing himself to feel safe.

After resting briefly, Madam Pomfrey allowed Ruby and Harry to attend the End-of-Term Feast.

The warm, lively chatter of students filled the Great Hall as Harry and Ruby approached, their respective scarves marking their houses: Ruby in Hufflepuff's yellow and black and Harry in Slytherin's green and silver. The End-of-Term Feast had already begun, but the moment they stepped inside, their presence drew immediate attention.

Across the Hall, their close friends—Hermione, Draco, Neville, Blaise, Theodore, Daphne, Susan, Hannah, Ron, and Cormac—spotted them. Without hesitation, they rose from their tables, their faces lighting up with joy and relief.

As a group, they hurried over, their voices a mix of excitement and concern.

"Ruby! Harry!" Hermione called out, her usual composed demeanor giving way to a wide smile.

"How are you feeling?" Neville asked, his eyes filled with worry.

"About time you showed up!" Ron added, his grin betraying his genuine happiness.

The two reassured their friends, their voices steady despite the lingering exhaustion. "We're feeling much better now," Ruby said with a soft smile.

"Thanks to all of you," Harry added, his tone filled with gratitude. "We couldn't have made it without your help."

A wave of affection passed through the group. Neville, Hermione, Daphne, Susan, and Hannah wrapped Ruby in gentle, warm hugs, their relief noticeable as they held their friend close.

Draco stepped forward, a rare, soft smile gracing his usually cool expression. He rested a hand on Harry's shoulder. "You scared us, Potter," he said, though the teasing was undercut by sincerity. Blaise and Theodore echoed the sentiment, giving Harry firm pats on the back.

Ron and Cormac were less formal, their pats more enthusiastic. "You're tougher than you look, mate," Cormac grinned.

Surrounded by their friends' care, Ruby and Harry felt the last of their fears and doubts dissipate.

"We're just glad you're both okay," Susan said, speaking for everyone.

Ruby nodded, her eyes glistening slightly. "We're glad to have you all. You mean so much to us."

As the group lingered in the entryway, a few other students nearby clapped quietly, a ripple of recognition spreading through the Hall. Though neither Ruby nor Harry sought the attention, they couldn't deny their pride in having such loyal and brave friends by their side.

"Come on," Hermione said, nudging them gently after a moment. "You're the guests of honor tonight. Let's get you to the table."

With laughter and warmth surrounding them, the group walked together, rejoining the feast, ready to celebrate the end of the year and the strength of their friendship.

As the End-of-Term Feast reached its crescendo, the Hall quieted when Headmaster Albus Dumbledore rose from his seat, his usual twinkle in his eyes shining brightly. The flickering candlelight cast warm shadows across his face as he addressed the gathered students and staff.

"My dear students and colleagues," he started, his voice carrying easily through the Hall, "another year at Hogwarts has ended. As always, I am immensely proud of all of you who have dedicated yourselves to your studies, grown in your magical talents, and shown resilience in the face of challenges."

He paused, his eyes twinkling as he glanced toward the seventh-years. "To our graduating class, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. You leave us now as witches and wizards, ready to embark on the next great adventure. May you carry the lessons and friendships forged here with you always."

The Hall erupted into applause for the seventh-years, who stood briefly to acknowledge the recognition.

Dumbledore then gazed toward Harry and Ruby, a gentle smile softening his features. "This year brought an unexpected danger that could have threatened our safety. But thanks to the courage, determination, and selflessness of two extraordinary young people, Hogwarts remains a place of wonder and learning. Harry Potter and Ruby Rose-Potter.." He gestured toward them, his smile widening. "...we owe you a debt of gratitude that words cannot fully convey."

The Hall erupted again, with cheers and applause directed at Harry and Ruby. Both flushed under the attention but nodded in acknowledgment, humbled by the moment.

As the applause faded, Dumbledore held up a hand. "But bravery rarely acts alone. It is supported by the bonds of friendship, the wisdom of planning, and the willingness to stand together. For those reasons, I have awarded some extra points to certain students who played an instrumental role in ensuring Hogwarts' safety."

He glanced at Professor McGonagall, who handed him a scroll with her usual composed demeanor, though a flicker of pride crossed her features. Dumbledore unfurled the scroll and began to read.

"For exceptional cleverness and resourcefulness in aiding her friends, Hermione Granger of Ravenclaw is awarded forty points."

Hermione blushed as her housemates applauded and cheered for her while her close friends grinned proudly.

"For bravery, quick thinking, and teamwork, Harry Potter, Draco Malfoy, Blaise Zabini, and Theodore Nott of Slytherin are each awarded forty points."

A loud cheer erupted from the Slytherin table, with Daphne clapping enthusiastically alongside her housemates. Harry exchanged surprised glances with Draco, Blaise, and Theodore, all of whom wore expressions of disbelief mixed with pride.

"For unshakable courage and loyalty, Ruby Rose-Potter and Neville Longbottom of Hufflepuff are each awarded forty points."

The Hufflepuff table erupted into cheers, Ruby's voice the loudest as she beamed at her fellow housemate, Neville, who looked stunned and delighted.

"And lastly, for bravery and perseverance in the face of danger, Ronald Weasley of Gryffindor is awarded forty points."

The Gryffindors cheered loudly, Cormac smacking Ron on the back with a grin while Ron waved awkwardly, his ears reddening.

Dumbledore's expression softened even further. "With that, I am pleased to announce the final House standings for this year." He glanced at the scroll. "In fourth place, Gryffindor. Third place, Hufflepuff. Second place, Ravenclaw. And in the first place, with the most points this academic year..." He paused, letting the moment build. "Slytherin!"

The Great Hall transformed, the banners and drapes shifting to Slytherin's green and silver. The Slytherin table erupted into cheers and applause, their housemates clapping each other on the back.

Ruby cheered the loudest from the Hufflepuff table, her face glowing with pride for her friends. Neville, Hannah, and Susan joined in, clapping enthusiastically.

Ron and Cormac raised their goblets at the Gryffindor table, saluting the Slytherins with broad grins.

Hermione offered polite, formal applause from the Ravenclaw table, though a small, approving smile tugged at her lips as she glanced toward Harry and Draco.

Harry, Draco, Blaise, Theodore, and Daphne looked at each other in disbelief. "We won," Draco muttered, his voice filled with genuine surprise.

"You can thank Ruby for cheering us on so loudly," Blaise quipped, earning a round of laughter from the group as they allowed themselves to bask in the unexpected but well-earned victory.

It was a moment of unity that transcended house lines, a celebration not just of Slytherin's triumph but of the bonds that had formed between them all over a year filled with trials and triumphs.

It is the next day. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as students filled the corridors, their laughter and chatter echoing through the stone walls. The anticipation of summer break and seeing their families made the castle feel lighter despite the lingering memories of the harrowing events from earlier in the year.

Ruby, radiant in her summer dress, pulled her luggage behind her. Her long braid swayed with every step as she walked with Neville, Susan, and Hannah. The four Hufflepuffs chatted cheerfully, exchanging plans for the summer and promises to write letters.

Nearby, Harry stood with his Slytherin companions. His formal attire gave him quiet confidence, though his emerald eyes held a hint of excitement. Draco, Blaise, Theodore, and Daphne were deep in conversation, but they occasionally glanced toward Ruby and the others, their bonds of friendship evident despite their house rivalries.

The Ravenclaw and Gryffindors were just a little behind, with Hermione catching up quickly, flanked by Ron and Cormac. The group paused momentarily, exchanging heartfelt goodbyes and promising to stay in touch over the summer.

Suddenly, Headmaster Albus Dumbledore's voice called out gently above the commotion. "Harry, Ruby, a moment, please."

The pair exchanged curious glances before stepping aside. Professor Severus Snape stood stoically next to the Headmaster, his black robes billowing faintly in the breeze of the corridor.

Dumbledore's kind eyes softened as he addressed Harry first. "Harry, as much as I would wish it otherwise, you are still a minor. While you bear the Head of the Potter Family title, the Ministry's rules are clear. For now, you must return to your Muggle relatives, the Dursleys."

Harry's face darkened slightly, his jaw tightening. The idea of returning to Privet Drive was far from appealing, but he nodded in quiet acceptance. "I understand," he said, his voice low. He glanced at Snape, who looked as though he might have objected to the idea but remained silent.

Turning to Ruby, Dumbledore's expression grew even more compassionate. "Ruby, you have no known living relatives to care for you, and as you are also a minor, arrangements had to be made."

Ruby's heart sank at the thought of being separated from her friends, but Dumbledore continued, his voice reassuring. "Professor Snape has graciously agreed to become your Magical Guardian. You will be living with him for the summer."

Ruby's eyes widened in surprise as she turned to look at Snape. His stern expression softened slightly as he gave her a curt nod. "You will be under my protection," he said firmly, his tone leaving no room for doubt.

Ruby's eyes welled with tears, not out of sadness but from the mixed emotions inside her. She turned to Harry, her closest friend and husband, feeling the weight of their impending separation.

Harry, sensing her distress, stepped forward and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "It's not goodbye, Ruby," he said, his voice steady and reassuring. We'll write to each other—every day if you want—and I'll count the days until we're back at Hogwarts."

Ruby smiled through her tears, nodding. "Every day," she echoed softly.

Dumbledore stepped back, letting the moment linger. "You both have been through much this year. Take the summer to rest and recharge. Hogwarts will always be here to welcome you home."

With that, the Headmaster and Snape turned to leave, giving the two a moment of privacy. Harry and Ruby exchanged one last hug before rejoining their friends, ready to face the summer ahead, knowing that the bonds they had formed would endure no matter the distance.

-1st Year: The End-

AN: Hello, everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving to those who celebrate it.

The first year (Philosopher's Stone) is now over.

Sadly, Ruby and Harry had to part ways for the time being because they were still minors. Ruby just turned twelve on June 04, 1992, while Harry will be twelve on July 31, 1992.

Thank you all for reading!

The next chapter will start in the second year (The Chambers of Secrets).