Chapter 79: 79. Medals
The morning came swiftly. The Great Hall was neatly decorated for that day with the colors of Slytherin. All students were asked to wear their pointed hats and don neat, clean robes.
Such preparations seemed unnecessary. However, it was Dumbledore's decision to make it a spectacle. He wanted to bring Snape to the light side, to his side. Yet, in truth, Snape only leaned towards Happy's side.
The choir performed first, and then they settled down in their seats. On Dumbledore's right sat Nicolas Flamel, and the Minister for Magic sat on the Headmaster's left. Rita Skeeter was also present, observing everything and writing things down. But when it came to Snape, she was only supposed to write great things.
After a few more minutes, Dumbledore stood up and walked over to the podium. Everyone calmed down and eagerly listened. Slytherin, however, took the longest to quiet down, considering the award an honor to their house.
"What a glorious morning this is. As cheerful as the chirping birds outside and the radiant sun—I see it here on your faces. Supreme glory is what the Order of Merlin First Class represents—a recognition of exceptional bravery or distinction!
"Even with all my ancient knowledge and magic, I cannot guarantee a victory over a thousand-year-old Basilisk, whose mere gaze can cast a deadly spell upon its foes. Yet Professor Severus Snape vanquished it and saved the school from closure.
"Now, I invite our guest, Nicolas Flamel, to bestow the Order of Merlin First Class Snape."
Dumbledore moved back and allowed old Nicolas to walk over. The man used a walking stick now since he had stopped using the Elixir of Life, and now his body had begun to age even more rapidly. But still, he wasn't going to kick the bucket that easily.
On the other side, Severus was also wearing his finest suit, with a loose, robe-like garment draped over his shoulder and arm. His hair was combed clean and impeccable, while his face had a strange glow—certainly, a few expensive potions were used.
The Minister for Magic, Fudge, came over with the gleaming bronze case in hand, and handed it over to Nicolas. Opening it, the old man revealed a cushion of blue velvet, and over it was the shining golden medal, with a green ribbon as it signified Merlin's color, who was in Slytherin during his school days.
It wasn't a military medal to be worn on one's chest but more of an ornament meant for display in one's home. So it was pretty sizable and made of splendid gold. It had its own unique identification marking as well, which allowed it to be easily checked and aided in the event of a loss.
"Thank you." Snape displayed the decency to express his appreciation to the legendary wizard, Flamel.
"Say a few words." Ever shameless, the old man, Nicolas, nudged Snape to the podium, forcing him to say something to the students.
Snape was annoyed at first, but once he saw the faces full of expectation, especially from the Slytherin, he had to say something.
So, in his usual snarly voice, he started, "I express my gratitude to the Ministry for considering me worthy of this award. However, I was not alone. If not for Happy Lestrange finding out about the Basilisk, and the location of the Chamber of Secrets, I would never have ventured there. Furthermore, I must acknowledge the contribution of Mr. Lestrange's pet, the goose, who crowed like a rooster—frightening the snake.
"But it was my wand that slayed the serpent, and any of you can do the same." Snape glanced at Happy and then at the Slytherin table. "Focus on your magical education—there are no limits to mastery."
Clap Clap Clap!
Snape wasn't adept at public speaking, and when he stepped back, it felt as if he had cut his speech halfway. Nonetheless, thunderous applause followed.
Dumbledore returned to the podium again. "Indeed, we must also acknowledge the actions of those courageous in times of need. Because of Happy Lestrange, the mystery was solved, and our dear Hagrid was spared from enduring the den of Dementors in Azkaban—For the bravery, fighting spirit, and wits shown by Mr. Lestrange, the Ministry has decided to award the Order of Merlin, Second Class!"
"Woooo…!" Gryffindor erupted in deafening cheers, claps, and screams. At that moment, the colors of the curtains and decorations also changed into the red and gold theme of Gryffindor.
Happy genuinely had no idea this was going to happen, but the more the thought the more sense he made. Yes, he was the man behind it all, he made the initial efforts, and he did destroy the Horcrux. However, he wondered why Harry didn't get something since he was Dumbledore's favored child.
'Could it be? He didn't get one because he IS the favored child? I reckon Dumbledore would not want to make Harry more famous than he already is and paint a bigger mark on his head.' Happy pondered as he walked toward the podium to receive his award.
Finally, he reached the stage and stood before Nicolas Flamel. The old man smiled widely while presenting him with the medal.
"Good going, boy."
Happy smiled and revealed puppy eyes. "Please teach me herbology and runes before you die."
"..."
"Brat, you're too greedy." Nicolas scowled. "But I like it… It's preferable to being wicked. I, too, was greedy. That's why I crafted the stone and kept it hidden for so long... Visit during your winter holidays. Perenelle would be delighted to see you again."
Happy giggled cheerfully. "Understood, Mr. Flamel. I'll even bring a gift that will blow your mind."
"Look here, please!"
Woosh!
The blinding light of the magical camera flashed, capturing his image at last. His and Snape's pictures would grace the front page the following day.
After that, the morning breakfast feast began, and following that were the mundane classes. Of course, Happy and Snape got their interviews done as well, and Rita made sure to write them diligently, not trying to stir the viper's nest.
Soon enough, the day came to an end. Still, Happy made sure to throw a small party in the Gryffindor common room with rebranded food from his Anytime Stores—Ramen, Bepis, Chocolates, Fries, KFC chicken, and whatnot; Also, the pizzas from elves in the basement kitchen. Regrettably, there were no music systems that could work here. There were indeed magical radios, but the music stations left much to be desired.
[A/N: Yes, magical radios are canon.]
So, Happy had to make do with the magical self-playing violins and guitars. At least some jazz tunes could be played, not that he was a fan of it.
Just like that, Happy spent a few more days reveling over his medal and then spent some time studying while money automatically flowed into his accounts. His wealth kept increasing daily by millions, surpassing the amount most muggles earn in a lifetime—he made it effortlessly, every day.
Finally, October 31st arrived, Halloween was upon them, and Happy remembered it was the day Sirius would enter the school and try to enter the Hogwarts' common rooms. Of course, he held no plans to actually meet the crazed dog just yet.
He merrily donned neat clothes as it was wintertime, and made his way to Hogsmeade. His permission letter was signed by his grandma, the MACUSA President, so he was good to go. Sadly, Harry couldn't come. Nor did Happy help him, as he wanted Remus Lupin to come clean with the Boy Who Lived.
"It's on me today. Get whatever you want." Happy beamed, walking between Ron and Hermione. "Let's get some Butterbeer."
Ron and Hermione chuckled and followed him behind diligently. After all, it was his birthday, though they had yet to offer their greetings.
Sadly, the two didn't know what was going to occur later that night.
…
[Extra]
[Professor Perfect!—Severus Snape, Potions Professor at Hogwarts, earned the Order of Merlin, First Class. Today I bring you the insider story of how the Potions Professor defeated the mighty thousand-year-old Basilisk. Strong, tall and well-educated, Professor Snape feared nothing when he entered the famed Chamber of Secrets—even in the face of certain death, he stood mightily, his wand aimed at the creature… This great battle should be written in history and read by all for eons to come…]
[The Lion Lestrange—Happy Lestrange, scion of the ancient and noble House of Lestrange, aided Professor Snape in defeating the mighty snake. With his wits and strength, he uncovered the mystery of the Basilisk and the location of the Chamber of Secrets. With his pet goose, Koko, he went on to terrorize the beast… To achieve such remarkable feats at such a young age fills me with anticipation for the years to come…]
Rita Skeeter went all out, throwing away all her shame and putting her life on the line quite literally. She spun the most believable story she could, and it was received with great enthusiasm. People always love a heroic tale, especially when it comes from those least expected.
And just like that, the legend of Severus Snape and Happy Lestrange spread… Koko, too, the famed goose.
GOD OF TRASH
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