Break In The Darkness

by OrcaPotter

The Renee Chronicles: Novel three. It has been 10 years since graduation at Hogwarts, and the wizarding world is in a state of dark times; The only hope lies in the two aurors known as the Potters- and Hermione & Ron as well! Sequel to Hatred's Prisoner

1. Chapters 1-4

A/N: Welcome to the third series of the Renee Chronicles! If you haven't done so, please read Etam Luos and Hatred's Prisoner first. Chapters 1-4 are below, so enjoy!
DISCLAIMER: Everything Potter belongs to J.K. Rowling!

Chapter One: The Letter


As he walked down the empty cobblestone street of Diagon Alley, old memmories flashed in Ron Weasley's mind. So many memmories, from so long ago.

He past by the old Apothecary shop, the window dark and full of cobwebbs. The bookshop was closed, the shelves empty and gathering dust. Quality Quidditch Supplies was long gone, old ads hanging by one corner on the muddy front window.

Ron sighed, stopping briefly in front of one of the only stores still open along this once busy commute. Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands since 382 B.C. He chuckled quietly to himself.

"The world would have to blow up entirely before ol' Ollivander closes his shop." He muttered, shaking his head.

Continuing his way, fog began to block Ron's path. It obscured the windows and doors of the other vacant shops, the only thing he being able to do was watch his step. After a few minute's walk, Ron approached Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor. He stopped a momment, smiling as he remembered the last time that he and his friends last sat at a table there, eating Florean Fortescue's famous sundaes. It hardly changed a bit, but the bright cheer that seemed to radiate from it's windows was hardly there, making it feel as if it were missing something. He sighed, pulling up the collar of his coat, and walked closer.

Through the fog, he could make out a feminine figure, sitting with her back turned to him at one of the rusty parlor tables outside the shop. When the fog cleared as he past the shop door, the woman's bushy brown hair was clearly visible. Ron quietly came about her, and the woman was bent over a piece of newspaper, a cup of steaming brew in her left hand. The light from the nearby lamp post reflected off her golden spectacles, and Ron laughed.

"Do you ever stop reading?"

The woman jumped, splashing some tea over her newspaper. She did'nt notice, her face lighting up at the sight of him.

"Ron! There you are,"

"Fashonably late, as always."

She stood up from her chair and hugged him, staying embraced for several minutes.

"It's good to see you again, Hermione." Ron whispered through her hair.

"Oh, Ron... I miss you so much!"

She pulled away, sitting back down and wiping her soaked newspaper with a napkin. Ron pulled out the chair across from her, sinking into it heavily.

"Sorry 'bout that, Herm." He blushed slightly.

"No problem, I can always get another copy at work." Hermione waved her hand in a dissmissive manner.

"How is it at the Prophet?" Ron asked.

Hermione sighed heavily, taking a long sip from her cup.

"Busy, as usual."

Ron nodded, looking her over. She was just as beautiful as she always had been. Her bushy brown hair, pearly white teeth, hazel brown eyes, and her slender outline had made Ron melt since the day he first met her. Being a childish young boy, he had always denied his love until his fourth year at Hogwarts when Hermione had her eyes set on another boy. In his fifth year, he had admitted his love for her, and she exchanged a mutual feeling.

The only thing different with her in the ten years since Hogwarts was her stressed look. Once full of intelligent vigor, the stress of the past years was clearly visible on her face. She now had to wear glasses, for she had become nearsighted from all the reading she did, straining her eyes. But Ron did'nt care, she was still perfect in every possible way.

Hermione noticed that he was staring at her and blushed slightly, an uncomfortable expression on her face.

"Er..." She shifted in her seat. "Can I order something for you?"

Ron shook his head from his gaze, a puzzled look on his face, then he shook his head no.

"Oh, no... don't bother, I'll get something myself. Be right back."
He got up quickly from his chair, nearly knocking it down. Hermione suppressed a giggle as she watched him go into the parlor. Shortly after, Ron came walking back out, a steaming cup of tea in his hand. He straightened out his chair and sat back down, staring blankly at the swirling hot liquid. Hermione tried to hide her curious stare, playing absently with her wet newspaper.

"So, how are things at the Ministry?" She asked, casually.

Ron moaned.

"Today's the first day that I'm not off chasing some delirious muggle with missing appendages. I tell ya Hermione, people are just plain parinoid! They can't tell the difference between a wizard and a muggle anymore, just cast spells now and ask later! There can't be a sane wizard or witch left in the country," He looked up at her darkly. "Can't say I blame them though."

Hermione shook her head sadly.

"Things sure have gone downhill," She whispered.

"If it goes downhill any further, we'll be at the bottom in no time." Ron said.

They were quiet a momment, taking sips of their tea and staring off into the fog around them. Hermione sighed loudly.

"How did it happen, Ron? Why did it have to happen? Look at this place! This street used to be filled with witches and wizards, all going about their business. But now," She shook her head, sadly. "Now it's all empty, everyone's gone."

Ron looked off into the distance, pain in his eyes.

"They are still out there,"

Hermione looked at him then stared back down at her cup of tea.

"I know, they're the reason we have'nt fallen yet." She looked back up at him, hope filling her eyes. "Have you heard from them at all?"

Ron shook his head, looking back at her.

"Not since we last spoke. But what about you? I read your article on them not too long ago."

"The last I heard of them they went after a small group of Death Eaters that were patrolling around some rural town." She laughed softly, a small grin on her face. "You know what they say, 'Where Renee Potter is, Harry Potter is close behind'."

Ron laughed quietly.

"Yeah, Renee was always a sucker for dramatic entrances. She comes out first to scare 'em, then ol' Harry pops out to finish the job. All the traitors I collect mutter the same thing. If it were'nt for Harry and Renee, things would actually be a lot worse."

Hermione swirled her cooled tea with her finger, staring off into nothing.

"I miss them, Ron. I miss the old days. I wish I could back in time, when we were all together."

Ron reached across the table, taking her hand.

"We'll all be together again, someday." He whispered. Looking into each other's eyes, Ron's other hand traveled down to his robe pocket. His mind raced with the rehearsed words that he had practiced for ten years. Each time he had encountered an intmate momment with Hermione, he had been close to asking the one question that he wanted to ask her for fifteen years. But something always came up or interrupted him, always stopping him with the fear of being rejected. He found it, the small package that he held with him everyday for seven years in his robe pocket.

"Hermione, I-" Ron began.

Hermione suddenly jumped. Her wrist watch was vibrating madly and the words "NEEDED BADLY AT WORK!" flashed across the watch's face.

"Oh, dear," She muttered, withdrawing her hand from Ron and standing up. "I gotta go."

Ron slumped against his chair, removing his other hand from his pocket.

I failed again! He thought angrily to himself.

Hermione quickly drank what was left of her tea, tossing it magically into the waste bin ten feet away. She rolled up her paper and briskly kissed Ron on his cheek, making him blush.

"Sorry to run off so quick, but when the Prophet calls like that it's important. Drop me an owl as soon as you can, perhaps we can meet again soon."

With a sad smile, Ron watched as Hermione disapparated right in front of him. He stared at the spot where she had been standing for a few momments, before standing up himself. Pushing the chair in, he looked sadly at his surroundings. The fog was unmoving, making it feel like it was the dead of night when it was really mid-morning. He gave Diagon Alley one last, regretful stare, then disapparated himself.


Ron apparated nearly on top of one of his co-workers.

"Hey, watch it!" The man barked, running off without a backwards glance.

Shaking his head, Ron walked on down the hall past the offices of those in the Accidental Magic Reversal Department. Wizards and witches dashed in and out of each door, carrying piles of parchment and nodding to him as he walked past. He reached the end of the hall, the door on his right bearing the name "Ronald Weasley; Head of Department" in large gold letters. Turning the knob and stepping inside briskly, nearly missing another employee, he pulled off his coat and hung it on the coat hanger. He straightened out his robes and pulled out his large chair at his desk.

"I'm gone for one hour, and my desk is already covered with paperwork." He muttered to himself, sitting down heavily and assessing his workload. His face fell into his hands, grabbing at his flaming red hair. The business babble that went on outside his door brought him back into focus and he lifted his head to start filling out reports. As he reached over for a quill, his arm knocked into one of the many photographs that decorated his desk. This particular one stopped him in mid-reach, staring at it with newfound sadness.

It was a wizard photograph of Renee and Harry's wedding, five years ago. They were standing there, arm in arm and smiling happily, up at Ron. Ron's own image waved happily beside Harry, for he was best man. The brown haired woman smiling broadly beside Renee was Hermione, she had made her maid of honor. Ron picked up the photo and studied it, the memmories of that day flooding back to him.
****

"Ron, are you sure that everything is ready?"

"Yes, Harry... for the one hundredth time, yes!"

A twentythree year old Harry was nervously trying to smooth out his wild, jet black hair. Ron, the same age, was trying to pin a carnation to his tuxedo. Harry gave up, and began to pace the room, stopping only to help Ron with his flower.

"Thanks," Ron said, embarrassed.

Harry grunted, then continued his nervous pace.

"Calm down, Harry! You are starting to make me nervous!" Ron sighed.

"I just want everything to go according to plan, I want everything to be perfect!" He squeezed his hands tightly together into fists.

"It's a wedding, Harry, things never go according to plan."

Harry looked at him with a horrifed expression.

"Thank you for making it so much easier, Ron!"

Ron laughed, slapping the groom roughly in the shoulder.

"Don't worry you big git, Renee will love you no matter what. Both of you will end this day as a married couple! Imagine that!"

Harry could'nt help but grin himself.

"I've watied for this day for so long, now it's finally here. Why do I feel so nervous?"

Ron looked at him stupidly.

"It's your wedding, silly... it would'nt be if you were'nt nervous."

Harry nodded, resuming his pace once again. Before long, Sirius Black stuck his head in the room.

"It's time, Harry. You guys are needed outside."

They both nodded, Harry re-checking himself in the mirror.

"You look fine," Ron said, comming up behind him and grinning at Harry through the mirror. "C'mon they're waiting."

Harry did'nt budge.

"Ron, you're my very best friend, you know that?"

Ron sighed, tugging at Harry's shoulder.

"Yes, Harry. I've never had a better friend than you."

Harry turned and grabbed Ron's arm, looking at him seriously.

"You're like a brother to me, the brother that I never had, the closest thing to a family that I've ever known. I would do anything for you and it means the whole world to me that you're my best man. No matter what happens in the future, no matter what destiny has in store for us.... we'll still be best friends forever."

Ron felt tears pushing to come through, then he shook his head.

"Aww c'mon Harry, stop it. You're gonna make me cry!"

Harry laughed, finally walking to leave the room.

"Well, enough mushy stuff... there's a wedding to be had!"

"Please, Harry... it's a wedding, it's nothing but mushy stuff!" Ron teased, chasing after him.
****


"Mr. Weasley! Mail for you!"

The mail carrier was hanging inside Ron's office, waving a handful of letters. Ron muttered annoyed to himself, placing the photograph back down on his desk and got up to take the letters.

"Thanks," He muttered out loud as the mail carrier left the office, slamming the door and making Ron jump. "Stupid kids."

Ron shuffled the envelopes with an exasperated expression.

"Not important... not important... don't want it to be important... junk... oh no, forgot to pay that... not important... not-"

He stopped, mouth gaping, at the last envelope in his hand. He had only seen this type of envelope a handful of times before, and he did not get them often at all. Ron's name was written in the sender's area, with no address underneath. The only thing in the return address area was a simple drawing.

A lightning bolt.

Joy washing over him, Ron quickly locked his door magically and nearly fell into his chair. He carefully opened the letter.


Dear Ron,
Sorry it's been so long since we last wrote, things have gotten really nuts lately. The DE's have been snooping around little outbands of wizard and witch families that are still out here. I would explain further, but there is always the possibility that this letter could be intercepted. We've been in touch with the other aurors, the same goes for them. Life is not easy for aurors.
I'm afraid there is a matter that has come up in which we need help with. Renee and I plan to be back around London soon, but I can't tell you when or where just yet. Do, however, expect a visitor. I won't reveal who, for obvious reasons. Please get this letter to Hermione, we need her in on this too. Renee and I look forward to seeing both of you again, it's been too long.
Don't write back. It's too dangerous and they can't know that we've contacted you.
Harry and Renee


Ron held his breath. What was it that they needed his and Hermione's help with?

Completely ignoring the rest of the letters and his piles of paperwork, Ron immediately stood up and threw his coat back on. He stuffed Harry's note deep in his robe pocket and left his office in a hurry.
****


"What have you learned for me?" Hissed a malicious voice.

An enormous arm chair faced a roaring black fire. Dispite it's glow, it only lit out the outline of the chair, the rest of the large room was cold and dark.

"Nothing, my lord." Muttered the man facing the chair's back. His pale and pointed face drowned in the shadows, his body shaking ever so slightly with his words.

"Nothing..." The word was spoken dangerously calm. The man quivered, running his hand nervously through his pale hair.

"I'm trying, believe me I am!"

"Obviously not hard enough. Are you not loyal to me, you young fool?" The voice oozed out from the chair.

"I am loyal, my master." Said the man, his knees buckling with nerves. "They are just too... too powerful." He whispered.

The black fire rose angrily.

"They are nothing but weak cowards that run in the shadows once they've made an embarrassment of my servants! Surely you, of all in my power, know them enough to bring them out of hiding!" The voice bellowed.

The man stumbled back, falling to his knees.

"Please, master... I promise to work harder!"

The body in which the evil voice belonged to rose from his chair. A tall, menacing outline made the fire's glow radiate around him.

"Will you be alive to work harder?"

The man shook uncontrollably.

"Please... please, master... please, I promise..."

Turning from the fire, the snake-like face of Voldemort leered down upon the cowering young man.

"I killed your father for such failure," He laughed evilly. "What makes you think I won't do the same to you?"

"Because," The man whispered desperately. "Because I know those who are closest to the Potters."

Voldemort's cruel laugh echoed off the hallowed walls.

"And that means what to me?"

The man gathered courage, rising to his feet, a sneer on his face.

"Harry Potter would do anything for those closest to him... anything."

Voldemort studied him closely, tapping his wand on his arm. The man watched him fearfully, taking short and shaky breaths.

"Fine then," He muttered finally. Suddenly, his wand arm shot forward and struck the man's face with a flash of green light. The man stumbled back, screaming and holding his right cheek carefully in his hands. "Let that be a reminder of your foolishness. Now go, and do not fail me again... or you will have a simular fate as your father!"

"Yes, my lord. I will not fail this time."


Chapter Two: The Visitor


Hermione Granger had become a well-respected journalist for the Daily Prophet. Not long after she graduated from Hogwarts, she got a job reporting minor stories and quickly rose up in ranks before she finally landed Head Reporter. Her job had taken her around the world, following the dark power where it had spread. She had won several distinguished awards for her articles in which she proudly displayed on her office wall.

Dispite having the job she always dreamed of and being very well off, Hermione was miserable.

"Ms. Granger! Ms. Granger do you have a minute?!"

Hermione had just gotten back from meeting Ron in Diagon Alley, and already had started to pour over the reports waiting on her desk. One of the younger reporters was yipping through her office door, excited and eager.

"What is it, Mr. Cayer?" She muttered, still trying to concentrate on a paper full of spelling errors that a new reporter wrote.

"I was wondering if you could check this for me?" He stepped in hopefully, pointing to a large bundle of parchment in his other hand.

Hermione turned to look at him with an annoyed expression, her hair all fizzled out and her spectacles hanging from one ear. This startled the young reporter, and he started to babble.

"Of course, if... if you're busy... I mean, if you don't want-"

"Hand it over, Mr. Cayer." Hermione sighed.

Mr. Cayer swallowed hard, handing his bundle nervously to Hermione. She leaned back in her chair, fixing her spectacles, and flipping pages rapidly. He started to twiddle his fingers, watching her carefully. Hermione causually looked over parchment after parchment, but as she got towards the end of the bundle, she slowed down, staring hard at the reports.

"What is this?" She whispered to him.

"Pardon?"

She pointed to the last report.

"Are you sure about this one?"

He leaned over to read what she was pointing at and nodded.

"Yes, ma'am."

Hermione stood up quickly.

"Where did you get this information?" She demanded.

This startled him, he began to stutter.

"Er... er... well, I er..."

Hermione pushed him aside, grabbing her coat quickly. She strode out of her office, Mr. Cayer following her.

"But Ms. Granger! What about the reports?" He yelled after her.

Her hand waved in a dismissive manner.

"Later!" She called over her shoulder.

"But... but...!" Mr. Cayer whined.

Hermione had flew out of the department office, going down the stairs two at a time towards the apparating area. She was nearly there when she ran head on into someone, knocking her to the floor.

"Hermione?!" Shrieked a deep voice.

She looked up to see Ron, looking horrified and scrambling to assist her back on her feet.

"Ron! Oh, Ron I was just leaving to see you!"

"And I was just on my way up to see you!" He said, dusting her off gently. Hermione blushed slightly before she remembered what it was she was in a hurry about.

"Ron, I must speak with you... it's urgent!"

Ron looked slightly startled by her paniced voice.

"Before you say anything, however, you need to read this,"

"But-"

He thrusted a wrinkled piece of parchment in her hand.

"Ron, there's no time for-"

"Just read it," He said firmly.

Hermione let out an angry sigh, looking at the letter. It quickly turned to a surprised yelp and her eyes went even wider as she read it to herself.

"They're... they're comming back?! Really? But, it says here they need our help... what could we possibly do for them? Do you think they're in trouble?"

"When are they not in trouble, Herm?" Ron said, gently taking the letter back. He promptly withdrew his wand, uttered a word, and red sparks flew out of the wand and onto the letter, setting it ablaze with fire. It fell to the floor, and he stomped out the small flame. The ashes quickly blew away, leaving no trace of the letter.

"Ron, it did'nt say when to expect the visitor... whoever that may be." She said to him.

"Most likely soon, knowing Harry and Renee."

Hermione sighed.

"As much as I dread to hear what news they bring, I can't wait to see them again."

Ron nodded.

"Me too."

Suddenly, a man Hermione did not recognize, apparated right next to Ron, an angry look on his face.

"Mr. Weasley, we've been looking all over for you! There's been a major accident over in Greensdale, multiple muggle deaths reported! We need you right now!"

Just then, a stream of reporters from upstairs poured into the disapparating area. They began to disapparate one by one very quickly.

Ron turned to Hermione.

"We'll talk later about what you needed to say, I can't delay with this." He leaned over quickly and kissed her on her cheek. "See you later."

Ron, along with the other man, disapparated.

Hermione sagged, looking at the spot where Ron had been worriedly.

"We're both in grave danger,"
****

"G'night, Mr. Weasley."

"Great job, Mr. Weasley!"

"'Night, Mr. Weasley."

Ron trudged his way down the hall toward the disapparating area of his department. It was 3 A.M., and his team had just gotten back from the worst mass-muggle murder since 1981, when Peter Pettigrew faked his own death, killing 13 muggles. It was an experience that Ron preferred to forget. What made it worse was that the Death Eaters responsible got away. Reports had it that the local aurors were hot on the trail, he was'nt sure if that included Harry and Renee.

Without a word, Ron managed to disapparate, and he appeared in one of the designated apprating areas near his one bedroom flat in London. It was safer to live among muggles, but that did not make it safer for them... if the Death Eaters found them.

He yawned, digging his hands into his coat pockets which covered his wizard robes. All he wanted to do was crawl into bed. So much had happened that previous day that his mind was swimming with new images and old memories.

Fog covered his path, the dim light from the electric lamp posts not helping a bit as he continued his way home. He had to fight the urge to blast it all away with his wand, but that was too risky being in a muggle city.

"Mister Weasley? Is that you, Mister Weasley sir?"

Ron stopped dead in his tracks. Someone spoke with a squeaky voice.

"Who's there?" He shouted. Someone tugged at his robes. Startled, Ron whipped out his wand, taking the chance and blasting the fog out from around him.

Cowering before him, not more than a few feet tall and wearing an odd assortment of clothing, was a small house elf.

"Dobby?" Ron whispered, shocked.

The elf nodded his head quickly.

"'Tis Dobby, sir."

"What are you doing?!" Ron shrieked, looking around quickly and grabbing the elf by his shirt collar, dragging him into the nearby alley.

"I bring a message for you, Mister Weasley!" Dobby said, importantly.

Ron looked at him, his eyes eager.

"From Harry?"

Dobby nodded quickly again.

"Well... tell me!"

He shook his head just as quickly.

"Why not?!" Ron shouted, angrily.

"I'm supposed to tell both you and Ms. Hermione Granger together, sir!" Dobby moaned.

"Well you can tell me and then I'll tell Hermione when I see her!" He barked.

The elf began to wail, hitting his head with his hands violently.

"Stop, stop it Dobby! Before someone hears!" Ron tried to calm him, feeling stupid for forgetting how Dobby was about things.

"I'm sorry to disobey you, sir! But Dobby does as he's told, sir! I don't want to disobey the great Harry Potter and his kind wife... they are depending on me and I won't fail them, sir!" Dobby sobbed.

Ron shook his head, annoyed.

"Fine... fine! Let's go," He turned to leave the alley.

Dobby stopped his sobs.

"Where, sir?"

"To Hermione's, you nitwit! You can't cry in this alley forever," Ron said, exasperated.

Dobby pulled at his big ears.

"But sir! Dobby can't go out in the muggle world... Dobby will be seen!"

"You got this far, did'nt you?" Ron asked.

"With Harry Potter's magic, Dobby did sir! Dobby can't go further then this alley without being seen by a muggle... I've been waiting all night for you here! Harry Potter say Ms. Granger would be with you, sir!"

Ron threw up his arms, very ticked off. He walked closer to Dobby, pointing his wand at him.

"What are you going to do, sir?" Dobby squeaked.

"Stay still," Ron muttered.

"But sir, I... eeeek!"

A blast of red light shot from Ron's wand and hit Dobby straight on. Instantly, the little elf began to shrink. Smaller and smaller and smaller still, until when he finally stopped, Dobby was no bigger than the palm of Ron's hand.

"There now, travel sized for my convenience!" Ron muttered amusedly, picking up the shrieking elf and dropping him in his coat pocket. "You keep quiet now," He said, tapping the pocket closed.

Ron walked quickly out of the alley and back to the disapparating area where he disappeared just as fast.


When Ron arrived at Hermione's front door, on a suburban street not far from where Harry used to live on Privet Drive, the house still had light in it's windows.

"Still working, I see." He whispered to himself, tapping lightly on the door. An old, beat looking cat jumped on the sill of the window next to the door. "'Lo, Crookshanks, 'ye old furball."

The door swung open.

"Ron!" Hermione hissed, dressed in her nightgown. "What is it? What's wrong? What happened?!"

Ron stepped through the door, pulling his coat collar down.

"Nothing... not really, Hermione. Calm down!" He whispered, closing the door behind him.

"Take your coat off, Ron... it's downright chilly out there with the fog and all." Hermione said, softly, reaching her hands out to take his coat. However, she jumped slightly as one of Ron's coat pockets began to wiggle. "Ron... what do you have in your pocket?"

Ron reached into the pocket, revealing a very frazzled Dobby.

Hermione gasped, bringing her hands over her mouth.

"Is that... who I think it is?"

"Uh-huh." Ron muttered, taking out his wand. He walked over to Hermione's couch, setting the elf down, muttered the counter-spell, and instantly Dobby grew back to normal size.

"Pleeeaaasseee sir, please do not shrink Dobby again, sir!" Dobby shrieked.

"Dobby!" Hermione scolded. "What on earth are you doing out here like this! Don't you know how dangerous it is for house elves these days?"

Dobby shook his head, sadly.

"He has a message, for us." Ron said.

Hermione gasped again, she stared at Dobby.

"Did Harry and Renee send you?"

The elf nodded quickly.

"You are not their servant, are you?" She asked, reprovingly.

He shook his head just as quickly.

"Dobby still works for Dumbledore, as Dobby's own will. He is such a great wizard, Dumbledore. So strong even after all that happened at Hogwarts! He saved as many of us as he could, before the fire." Tears began to trickle down his face. "I've been helping him ever since, miss! But when Harry Potter and his gracious wife came, I offered to help them." He wiped away his tears, standing up straight, trying to make himself look important.

"That is why I'm here, the great Potters have a message for both of you, Mister Ron Weasley and Ms. Hermione Granger. The message is:" He looked around cautiously, as if someone would overhear.

"Well, get on with it!" Ron and Hermione demanded in union.

Startled, Dobby jumped and quickly spilled out the information.

"Both of you are to meet at King's Cross, dressed as muggles, tomorrow night."

Ron and Hermione stared at him.

"That's it?" Ron blurted.

Dobby shook his head.

"Pick up the old map of London, by the ticket station. It's a portkey, and make sure no one sees you."

Hermione sighed, turning to look out the window and stroke Crookshank's fur.

"Now, if you don't mind, sir, Dobby must go back to that alley if I hope to get home." Dobby said, carefully.

Ron groaned.

"Alright, alright." He turned to Hermione. "Will you be ok, Herm?"

She looked back, waving her hand.

"Oh yes, I'm ok. I guess I'll meet you at King's Cross tomorrow night."

Ron looked back to Dobby, tapping his wand on his hand.

"Please, sir! Please don't shrink Dobby!" He threw his hands around his head, wailing.

"How else will I get you back?" Ron sighed, annoyed.

Hermione suddenly left the window, striding over to the table she had been working on. She picked up her wand and a spell book, flipping through until she finally stopped on one page with a triumphant breath.

"What are you doing?" Ron asked.

"A type of banishing spell that will allow Dobby to attempt to apparate back to the alley where you found him." Hermione said quickly, her old intelligent glow comming back over her.

Ron smiled.

"Only you, Herm."

She grinned, pointing her wand at Dobby.

"Just think about where you need to be, Dobby, and the spell will take you there."

Dobby closed his eyes shut.

"Thank you, miss!"

"Aparatus!"

Red sparks hit Dobby, surrounding him, then in a flash, he disappeared.

"Show off," Ron teased, grinning.

"It paid to pay attention durring classes," She said simply.

Ron sighed, remembering Hogwarts.

"Too bad no one can anymore."

Hermione's grin stopped, turning into a grimace. She turned to put the book away.

"At least, they got as many out as they could." She whispered.

Ron shook himself back to present day, pulling up the collar of his coat. He turned to leave.

"Ron?" Hermione called after him.

"Emm?"

She seemed to consider what to say, her mouth open, but she closed it quickly, shaking her head.

"Oh, nevermind. Good night, Ron."

"G'night, Hermione."
****


"Sir, are you sure that we can't be seen?"

"Quiet, you bumbling idiot! Of course we can't be seen!" Snapped a harsh voice.

The night was as dark as it had been for so long. The stars were a rare sight to see those days. But the three hooded figures who were striding silently along the sidewalk could care less about stars. They had some doing in their disappearance.

Stopping at a crosswalk, the three figures stood to stare up at the street sign.

"This is it, no mistakes now! Or else I'll report you to the dark lord." Barked the leader.

"But sir! Of all places, this should be the most heavily guarded!" Whined the third figure.

The leader stopped short and whirled around, the outline of a scared face just visible underneath the hood.

"Do you doubt, Mr. Crabb, my abilities?" He said, dangerously calm.

Both figures shook their heads quickly.

"Good," The leader barked. He continued his pace down the sidewalk. The two figures behind him eyed their surroundings nervously.

"Where Renee Potter is, Harry Potter is not far behind..." Muttered one figure to the other quietly behind the leader's back.

"There," Crowed the leader, pretending not to hear.

They stood before a small suburban house, fourth one down the drive. Pulling out his wand, the two hooded henchmen took a step back.

"It starts, Harry Potter... it starts." The leader whispered, hatred radiating from him.

With a gust of wind, and an utter of a word, sparks flew out of the man's wand and hit the house. The two henchmen, reluctantly followed with the same spell. Within momments, the house was completely engulfed in fire.

The flames reflected off the dark eyes under the man's hood, and his two hooded followers cowered at the cackle of laughter that only one of pure evil could produce.

The sign "Number Four; Privet Drive" fell from the garage wall, burning to ashes.


Chapter Three: The Meeting


Hermione was woken up suddenly by the sounds of sirens in the distance. She groaned, sliding out of bed to look out the window. Crookshanks was pacing the sill erratically, which was unusal for him in his old age.

"What's wrong, 'Shanks?" Hermione grunted, wiping the sleep from her eyes. She parted the curtains and searched the front lawn. Lazily, still hearing the screams of sirens, she looked all over until her eyes finally found the sky.

Black smoke was rising through the fog, hints of a red glow just visible over the house tops.

Hermione was slapped awake instantly. She was not sure what to think. It could of been a normal fire, caused by an electrical short-circuit or a fallen candle, or any number of things. But Crookshank's nervous pace and low meows Hermione had come to recognize when the dark powers were active. Her gut feeling was telling her that this fire was the work of dark magic.

Turning from the window, Hermione debated weather-or-not to go investigate. She glanced at her clock, which read 5:30 AM. Cursing under her breath for not having an owl, Hermione decided to wait it out and contact Ron first thing at sunrise.


When Hermione arrived at work the next morning, her desk was littered with reports to be approved. She sighed, sleepily trying to hang her coat on her coat rack with no luck, she kept missing it.

"Ms. Granger!"

"Ahhh!" Hermione yelped, whipping around to see an excited Mr. Cayer. "What is it, Mr. Cayer?!"

"Sorry to startle you, Ms. Granger, but the Office Director is waiting for the report to be approved on that muggle fire. You're an hour late!"

Hermione's eyes went stark wide. She had never been late to work before in her entire life! Being too sleepy to remember anything, she had also completely forgot to owl Ron about the same fire.

"Oh, for crying out loud! I'm sorry! I... I'll get on it right now. Where is it?!"

Mr. Cayer pointed to the heaping mounds of parchment on her desk.

"They got six of us out there pronto before they took the bodies away," He grinned proudly, not noticing Hermione's horrified face. "We had to pretend to be muggle reporters! They were sure shocked to see us out there so quick... stupid muggles." He laughed to himself and left, without a glance back at Hermione, who stared at him with distaste.

Jumping as she remembered the report, she fell into her chair and shuffled parchment around, her eyes pouring over each word.

"Fire at Number Four, Privet Drive caused by magic. Most likely by Death Eaters. Members from the AMRD arrived and determined the fact. Local aurors on assignment, names not available. Two deaths, both muggles. Names...."

Hermione gasped, letting the report fall from her hands.

"Is everything alright, Ms. Granger?"

She jumped again, spinning around to face her boss, Mr. Miller. He had a mixed expression on his face.

"Mr. Miller! Oh, I'm so terribly sorry for being late this morning! I must of lost track of time..."

"It's not like you to be late, are you OK?"

She nodded, scrambling up parchment.

"Er... yes, yes I'm fine."

He studied her closely, comming to the front of her desk and surveying the piles of paperwork.

"As busy as you seem, were you able to approve those reports on the muggle fire yet?"

Hermione stopped what she was doing, looking at him with a tired face.

"Er... yes, just one momment."

She threw down the report she had been reading, signed it quickly with her signature, and handed it over to Mr. Miller. He looked over it, nodding.

"Good work. Ten more minutes and we would not have a story for the front page. Paper goes to press at 7:00 you know!"

Hermione sighed, running her hand through her stressed brown hair.

"Mr. Miller?" She asked as he made way to leave her office.

"Yes, Ms. Granger?"

"I'm not feeling well, may I take the rest of the day off?"

He looked at her, mild surprise in his eyes.

"Why, Ms. Granger, you have never asked for a sick day in the eight years you've been working with us!"

Hermione swallowed hard, shuddering at breaking her perfect attendance, but her mind was swimming too much with all that had happened in the past 24 hours. There was no way she could focus enough to continue work until that evening.

She nodded, pretending to sniffle.

"Well, alright then. With all the time you've put in, take as much time as you need to recover. We can't have our top reporter under the weather."

"Thank you very much, Mr. Miller."

He nodded, taking the report in both hands and leaving. Hermione grabbed her coat. She headed for the Accidental Magic Reversal Department at the Ministry.
****


Ron was very concerned when Hermione had burst through his office door. She practically fell into his guest chair, immediately explaining about the fire on Privet Drive.

"Hold on, hold on..." Ron said gently, taking Hermione's hands in his as she was talking a mile a minute. "You mean to tell me, that Death Eaters set fire to Harry's aunt and uncle's house? And they are both dead?"

Hermione nodded, catching her breath. Ron looked away, a worried look on his face.

"This is bad..." He whispered.

"That's only part of it. I never got to tell you what I originally wanted to tell you yesterday, before you gave me the note from Harry and Renee." Hermione said, darkly.

Ron looked back at her.

"What?"

"I got a report in yesterday, about Death Eater attacks starting to centralize in a certain area. As you know, for the past nine years or so, their attacks have been sporadic. But recently, they have been starting to hone in on a particular area." She paused a momment, sighing. "The area that we knew Harry and Renee were living in last. Ron, they are going to find them!"

Ron stood up and started to pace his office.

"That's what they must want to talk with us about,"

"But what could we possibly do for them?" Hermione asked.

He stopped, turning to her slowly.

"The Fidelius charm. The same charm that Harry's parents used before they were killed,"

Hermione looked to the floor, uncertainly.

"Well, at least neither one of us are traitors." She looked back up at him, a sarcastic smile on her face. "How ironic for it to come to this. The same charm, the same situation."

"Let's hope not the same outcome," Ron muttered, darkly.


Fog was commonplace those days, as it had blanketed the land with gloom every night since everyone could remember. It was mid-October, and fall was in full swing, adding to the fog a crisp chill in the air.

Stepping onto King's Cross made old memories flood to Ron once more. He had not been there for ten years, when he and his friends had graduated from Hogwarts. The station was empty, old train tickets blowing silently with the chilled breeze. It did nothing to blow away the fog.

"Sure is nippy out," Hermione muttered, pulling her coat collar up closer on her neck.

Ron put his arm around her and he felt her relax in response.

"Even looking like muggles we look conspicuous," Ron whispered. "There's no one here!"

Hermione sighed deeply, hugging Ron close which made his insides melt.

"Let's just look for the map and get out of here, the shorter we're here the less we'll look conspicuous."

Ron nodded and they walked together around the empty station, trying their best just to look like a couple out on a date. Which Ron thought was an awfully odd place to have a date at, and knew that if anyone saw them, they would think the same thing.

Walking towards the ticket station, Hermione jabbed Ron in the ribs gently.

"There!" She whispered excitedly, pointing to a darkened corner by the ticket station in the fog.

Ron squinted, walking with her hurried pace while still trying not to stand out. As they got closer, the outline of a large piece of crumpled paper became visible through the darkness and fog. Closer still and sure enough it was an old map of London, held in place on the ground by an old soda can.

"I did'nt know Harry liked... liked... Coke?" Ron muttered, turning his head sideways to read the fallen can.

Hermione jabbed him in the ribs harder that time, shaking her head.

"We have to pick it up together. I'm sure it's not a timed portkey, otherwise Dobby would have told us to be here at a specific time."

Ron shrugged.

"On the count of three then?"

Hermione nodded, leaning over with Ron to take it on three.

"1, 2, 3!" Both said in union.

They grabbed the map at the same time and instantly, Ron felt himself being pulled towards the map by his belly button. The feeling made him feel sick and he closed his eyes. He could feel Hermione's body being pressed against him and they were sucked into a void. Then, just as suddenly and still with his eyes closed, Ron felt his feet hit solid ground. He had used portkeys several times in his life, but he never got used to the sick feeling. It was a wonder that he found himself still standing on both feet, right next to a frazzled looking Hermione.

"You alright, Herm?" He asked, concerned.

She nodded, running her hands through her bushy hair.

Ron then noticed that they were surrounded by trees. Huge, leafy oak trees spread out here and there. The fog was reduced to a mist and he could just make out a hint of light far in the distance past the trees.

"Where are we?" He whispered to Hermione. She shook her head.

"Don't know..."

"Well, there seems to be light off in the distance there. Let's go check it out." Ron took Hermione's hand and they began to walk together. Before long, the mist parted enough so that they could make out where the light was comming from.

It was a large house, three stories tall and surrounded by a vine covered wall. A huge gate guarded the entrance, also covered in vines.

"Do you think this is where we need to be?" Hermione asked Ron.

"Er..." He was'nt sure.

"I think so," Said a woman's voice.

They both spun around, trying to see in the dark where the voice had come from. It sounded so familiar to Ron.

"Renee?" He whispered, with a small squeak to his voice.

Suddenly, stepping into the light streaming from the windows of the house, was Renee.

"Hey guys! Long time no see,"

Hermione let out a shout and ran over to Renee, grabbing her in a hug.

"It's really you, Renee! Oh, how I've missed you!"

"It's been too long, Hermione. We've missed you so much too."

"Where's Harry?" Ron asked, comming over and hugging Renee as well. She leaned to the side, looking past Ron and Hermione, grinning.

"Right here," Said a laughing voice.

Ron jumped and spun around a second time, face to face with a man with messy jet-black hair, black glasses, and green eyes.

"HARRY!" Ron barked, grabbing Harry in his arms before he could stop himself.

"Hey man!" Harry giggled. "It's been a long time." He hugged him back. After a momment, Ron stepped aside for an eager Hermione to embrace Harry.

"Oh, Harry..."

"I've missed you, Hermione." Harry said, softly.

Silence ensued for a momment, everyone looking over each other. Ron noticed Renee's young flair was still about her, and Harry still had the same mischievous look. Dispite the fact that they were all full-grown adults, he could'nt help but feel like a kid again, surrounded by his old friends.

Renee suddenly looked serious, scanning the dark beyond the house's lights. Harry took notice and did the same, Ron and Hermione looking at them in turn with growing concern.

"What is it?" Hermione asked.

Harry took her hand, motioning his head to Ron to follow him. Renee had already opened the huge, vine covered gates and started her way inside. Closing the gates as they had all entered, Harry relaxed just as suddenly as he had turned serious.

"There's a lot to talk about,"

"You're telling me," Ron said.

Harry laughed, slipping his hands into his coat pockets.

"Is this your house?" Hermione asked Renee.

It was her turn to laugh.

"Oh, no! No, our place... our place is..." Her laughed turned into a sigh.

"That's one thing we need to talk about," Harry said, suddenly grim.

"Then who's place is this?" Ron asked Harry, walking with them up several steps that led to the huge front door.

"You'll soon see," Renee said, giving a sly grin.

She opened the door, Harry stepping in after her, followed by Ron and Hermione side by side. The foyer was enormous, the house seemed twice as big from the inside then it did on the outside. Ron crained his neck to look upward and he noticed that the ceiling was magiced to look like the sky outside.

"Why, it's almost... it's almost like the ceiling in the Great Hall at-"

"Hogwarts." Said a tired, but happy voice.

Ron snapped his head to look to who it was standing in the archway leading to another enormous room.

"Professor Dumbledore?" Hermione whispered.

"My, you've grown to be a lovely young woman Ms. Granger. I've read all of your articles and I must say how impressed I am." He said, stepping into the light. She blushed, smiling. Dumbledore looked to Ron, who was staring at him awestruck.

"Mr. Weasley? I hear you're an excellent Head of Department at the AMRD these days. Your father's real proud."

"Thank you, Professor Dumbledore. It's good to see you."

"Ah yes, it's good to see my old students... so many... lost. Thank Heaven both of you are well." He said, sadly. His eyes had their old twinkle, but it was a dull one, and he looked so much older. Ron could not begin to guess how old he was.

"Well," He said, placing a gentle hand on Renee and smiling. "We better get to the matters at hand while the night is still young, because I sure am not."

Harry laughed silently, grinning at Ron and Hermione to follow him and Renee with Dumbledore deeper into the house. Ron gawked as they strode past huge tapestries, portraits that he seemed to remember from Hogwarts, as well as other familiar things from their old school. He was surprised at all that Dumbledore managed to save, before Hogwarts was attacked by Death Eaters seven years prior. They had overwelmed the school, every Death Eater under Voldemort's power seemed to be there. Not even Harry and Renee could save the castle, along with every auror from every allied country. Harry had taken it hard, Renee was the only one able to pull him out of it. For the deaths of half the student body, numerous house elves, and others belonging to the League of Aurors, weighed heavily on him.

Since then, Hogwarts was left to rubble. Platform Nine and Three Quarters was blocked off. More than eightyfive percent of the magical population moved out of the country. And the Death Eaters continued their slow raid. Harry and Renee were the only ones who struck fear into them, and they were responsible for the capture of nearly two hundred Death Eaters. However, Voldemort is more powerful than ever, and his reign is so vast that it has spread to almost every continent. Yet England remains as the epicenter of his evil ways.

After a couple minutes of going down hallways, the group was led into a large office. Dumbledore slowly walked behind his old desk, sitting down. Harry pulled out a chair for Renee, standing next to her with his arm caressing her back. Ron did the same for Hermione, but she pulled a chair over for him and he sat down as well, a defeated look in his eyes.

Suddenly, there was a flash of red, and Ron looked over to Harry where Dumbledore's old Phoenix was perched happily on his shoulder. His long golden red tailfeathers stroking Renee's cheeks. Ron smiled, turning back to Dumbledore as he had cleared his throat to speek.

"First of all, I would like to say again that I am very happy that the two of you are well. I'm proud of both of you for your successes in your careers. It's good to know, after all that has been going on since you graduated... and after all that has happend to your former peers." He sighed deeply, crossing his hands.

"Unfortunately, the reason you two have been called here is-"

"Excuse me, Professor, but I believe it is we that should explain." Harry interrupted politely, Renee nodding slightly.

Dumbledore nodded as well, a faint smile just visible on his aged face.

"As both of you know," Harry began. "The two of us have been fighting the Death Eaters for a long, long time. We know their strategies like the back of our hands. It appears we are the only ones that can really do damage to them... Voldemort has somehow enhanced their powers. That's why we've become almost a legend amongst the dark arts... I'm sure you've heard the saying,"

Ron and Hermione nodded, intently staring at Harry and Renee.

"It's really quite flattering," Renee giggled. "You should see their faces when I apparate in front of them, my coat blowing with the wind. It's so dramatic like! Then Harry will sneak up behind them and... well... do our job."

"They are so afraid that our job's become quite easy lately," Harry added.

Renee's expression turned grim.

"Yes, but I'm afraid my instincts... our instincts... tell us that something is up. The Death Eaters have begun to centralize their attacks, each one getting closer and closer to our home. It was'nt a real concern until now, we have more than the usual spells and charms over our house than the normal auror's would. It could mean three things..." Renee took a deep breath, looking to the floor. "The Death Eaters have found where we live, and plan to overwelm us with sheer numbers like they did Hogwarts. Or, they have started to build up a resistance to us and are starting to face their fears. Or..." She looked up at Harry, he gave her a small grin, stroking her hair. She smiled sheepishly, staring at the floor once more, then slowly looking up at Ron and Hermione. "Or, they know something about us that can possibly make the dark arts become even more at risk... with time, if they don't take care of the matter now."

Ron and Hermione stared at her with intent expressions.

"What is it? What is it they know about you?" Hermione asked.

"Besides the fact that both of you are soul mates and that you'll both defeat Voldemort once he decides to personally come after you, since the Death Eaters are'nt doing a swell job." Ron said, crossing his arms.

Renee began to blush deeply, looking back at the floor and taking Harry's hand.

"Well, Harry and I are... well, are expecting another Potter."

Ron's jaw dropped, his arms uncrossing and dropping to his lap. Hermione let out an excited squeal next to him.

"Really?! Oh, Renee... how wonderful! Congratulations!" She clapped her hands together, getting up to hug and kiss Renee. "You must be real excited," She said to Harry, hugging him as well.

He turned red, nodding.

Ron was still glued to his chair. Harry looked at him carefully.

"You can breath now, you know." He said to Ron.

Ron could'nt help but break out of his shock and jump up to grab Harry.

"Harry, you ol' rascal! You're gonna be a dad?"

Harry laughed, punching Ron in the shoulder playfully.

"So, do you approve?" He asked, slyly.

Ron punched him back.

"Wow, that's some title. The great Harry Potter becomes a dad, look out for junior!"

Dumbledore had been watching the scene, a wide smile on his face. However, it faultered a little, as he cleared his throat for silence. Everyone settled back down, Harry walking back over to Renee and rubbing her back.

"This is certainly wonderous news, I again congratulate the two of you. It most certainly will be grand to have another Potter amongst us. However, this is a major reason that we called you, Ron and Hermione, here tonight. When Harry and Renee came to me earlier this week about what they have found, I have also learned of the actions of the Death Eaters through my many sources. I was about to call upon them when they arrived at my door. The first two reasons are very likely, but we have theories about the third. Voldemort, as well all know, has highly advanced unkown powers. It is still not known how he found out about Harry and Renee being soul mates. We believe, that he can sense them somehow. He may know about their unborn child just as he knew about Harry's Etam Luos. What's surprising is how quickly, for from what Renee has told me, she is not that far along. What make's their child such of a concern to Voldemort is for the same reason he wanted to kill Harry and Renee in the first place. If Harry and Renee don't destroy him soon, combined with them their child can most certainly bring Voldemort to his death with one encounter." He smiled at Harry and Renee. "We are in the presence of a very powerful witch and wizard, and soon to be a third."

Ron looked at all of them, Hermione was looking uncertainly at the floor.

"What is it that we can do?" He asked.

There was silence in the room. Fawkes, the Phoenix, let out a songful moan.

"I am not going to take chances this time," Dumbledore nearly whispered. "The Fidelius charm is the only option to keep Harry and Renee safe. However, Voldemort got through once... he can get through again. Not that I'm saying that either one of you are going to go against them, but there will be an enormous amount of danger to the two of you and we can't take that chance again."

"But, the charm only needs one person, one Secret Keeper. Why do you need us both?" Hermione asked.

"Yeah, and you make it seem like it won't work." Ron added.

Dumbledore nodded, sighing deeply.

"I have the ability to make some modifications to the charm. It's a sure-fire plan that should keep Harry and Renee safe... and both of you as well. I can perform the charm on both of you, Ron and Hermione... but the place that Harry and Renee will say they live will be a decoy. I will be the true Secret Keeper, and it should foil the dark arts for a long while. Afterwards, I'm not sure what we can do."

"Would'nt they figure out that someone else is the true Secret Keeper if they ever got ahold of me or Ron?" Hermione asked.

Dumbledore nodded gravely.

"Yes, but there are many people tied to Harry and Renee. I will be very hard to find, so they will just spend their time going from person to person. It should last a long while, like I said."

"I'll do it then," Ron said, standing up.

Hermione nodded, standing as well.

"Anything."

Harry and Renee looked at them, smiling appreciatively. Dumbledore turned for his wand. Fawkes flew to his perch and the four friends gathered in a circle around Dumbledore's desk.

"Remember, even though the place named to you is a decoy... the same rules to the charm still applies. As long as you keep up that either of you is the Secret Keeper... the plan should work. If you tell anyone the location, the charm is broken. As long as you don't, people could look directly into the named spot and see nothing." He raised his wand, pointing it at Ron.

"Fidelius," Red sparks flew out of the wand and surrounded Ron. He started to feel nervous, but kept a determined look to his face. "Do you accept the title of Secret Keeper?"

"Yes." Ron said.

Dumbledore turned the wand to Harry and Renee, red sparks surrounding them. The same red sparks kept around Ron at the same time.

"State the secret which you require kept." Dumbledore chanted.

"Lyonberg." Harry and Renee said in union.

Suddenly, golden sparks flew out to Ron from Harry and Renee, surrounding him with the red ones. He felt a slight tingle all over his body, making him quiver.

Dumbledore let his wand fall.

"There, I modified it such that it's a decoy, allowing me to do the same on Hermione. When I'm done with her, I will need either of you to perform the real charm on myself, making me the actual Secret Keeper."

Ron and Hermione nodded together, and Dumbledore performed the decoy spell on Hermione. When they were through, Dumbledore asked Ron to step out of the room while Hermione performed the real charm. He obliged, closing the door behind him. As he stood in the hallway, waiting for them to be through, Ron looked around the massive house.

"Hello, Mister Weasley, sir!" Squeaked a small voice.

"Dobby?" Ron asked, turning to look below him to face the small house elf. "Why, you just popped out of nowhere. You need to stop doing that!"

"So sorry, sir..." Dobby wailed, tears begining to form. "Dobby has messed up again!"

Ron knelt down to face him, waving his hands and trying his best to calm the elf.

Dumbledore's office door opened, Hermione and Harry walking out to stand by Ron.

"Dobby, what's wrong now?" Harry sighed.

"Oh, Harry Potter, sir! Terribly sorry... I was... was... was just comming to tell you that there are some refreshments in the dining room and I startled Mister Weasley, sir!"

By that time, Renee had walked out. She went over to Dobby, gently patting him on the head.

"It's alright, Dobby! Thank you so much for setting up some drinks!" She said in an overly bright voice.

Before Dobby could utter another word, Harry had grabbed Ron's shoulder, bringing him to his feet, and led the group towards the dining room.

"Is Professor Dumbledore going to join us?" Hermione asked them, walking into the huge dining room with a very large chandelier.

Harry shook his head, a somewhat sad look in his eyes.

"No... no, he said he was tired and wanted to get to bed. He sends his apologies for not saying goodnight. That was quite a lot of magic for him, he's not as young as he used to be." He added a short laugh.

Ron and Hermione nodded, sitting down next to Renee who had begun to pour out tea

As Ron thankfully took a cup, he looked around. It was a basic dining room, only five times as large as a normal one. Renee and Hermione had broken into "girl talk", so Ron turned to Harry.

"Harry, as much as I don't want to bring it up..." Ron swallowed hard, remembering what had happened the night before and wondering if he should tell Harry.

"If it's about the Dursleys, don't worry." Harry stared down at his cup, a blank expression on his face.

Ron's jaw dropped, he placed his cup back down on it's saucer.

Harry was shaking his head, his eyes were hidden from Ron's view with his messy black hair.

"It's sad, and it's terrible that it happened... really. But it was only a matter of time. They did'nt respond to or heed my warnings. In a way, it's their own fault."

Ron was speechless, he just stared at Harry dubiously.

Silence broke between them, the chatter of Hermione and Reene wavering as they took notice.

"Don't you think.... don't you think that it in itself is a warning? To you?" Ron whispered, regretting saying the words once they were spoken.

Harry turned to Ron, and Ron became startled as the stress that had weighed upon Harry for so many years was finally very visible on his twentyeight year old face. Ron looked down at the table, fiddling with his tea.

"Sorry," He whispered.

Harry put a hand on his shoulder, and Ron's heart ached as he missed the old days. But he would'nt let it get to him now... now that they were together again.

They both sighed deeply.

"Enough of this," Harry said, finally. "We have'nt seen each other for three and a half years! Let's talk about something positive that has happened since then."

Ron nodded, relief swelling up inside of him.

"Ginny got married," He said.

Harry's face lit up back to his youthful smile that Ron remembered so much.

"Really?! That's wonderful news,"

Ron nodded again, grinning.

"Who's the lucky man?" Harry asked.

"You've never met him. His name's Tod Marlin, an American from New York. It's funny to talk with him, his accent is real strong. Anyway, he was over on project for the Wizard's Journal, the newspaper in New York City. Met Ginny on the muggle underground. From what she told me, and believe me she did not tell me much, you know how women are, he was exceptionally nice and polite. Helped her out in some way, but she never said how."

"You like the guy?" Harry asked, sipping some tea.

"Let's say I've found a decent challenge in chess. Did'nt think an American would be so good at it," Ron shook his head with wonder.

Harry giggled.

"Just because they talk differently and live across the ocean does'nt make them aliens to everything. Of course they would know how to play chess, right honey?" He leaned over to look at Renee. She leaned back and smiled at him.

"Don't pick on me, Harry's only happy because he found someone he could beat at that game. Nah, I'm a master at checkers though!"

Everyone laughed, the girls going back to their conversation. Harry looked back at Ron.

"So, Harry. Have any names picked out?" Ron punched him in the shoulder again.

"Gosh, no. We've only just found out a week ago, or at least, I just found out. Who knows how long Renee knew before she told me." Harry blushed slightly, turning away.

"Man, having kids already... that has got to be scary. Look at me, still a single guy with no real 'relationship' going on."

Harry turned back to Ron, a surprised look on his face. He drew his voice down to a whisper, leaning towards him.

"You mean you still have'nt asked Hermione the big question yet? You're not even dating? Ron, what's up with you?"

It was Ron's turn to blush, he shook his head violently.

"I... I can never get it out. Plus, we don't see each other much. Our jobs keep us away, especially her's. That's one reason why we are'nt dating in the 'traditional' sense." He sighed, fingering the ring that he still kept deep within his robes. "Harry, how on earth did you ever manage to ask Renee?"

Harry's eyes seemed to roll back into a dreamy state, resting his chin on his fist. Ron smirked, but it turned into a sad smile, as he wished that he had a memory to look back on like that. Just like so many other things, Harry was always the one with everything, even though Ron knew he did'nt realize it. Ron was always jealous of him, and Harry getting his girl just made him even more envious on the inside. But Ron knew better, now that he was a grown and mature man. Maybe it was just dumb luck or it was just what destiny had for him, being the last in everything, being cut short, always in the shadow of someone else and never to be on top of his own world. His job was the only thing that pleased him those days, which made him feel worse dispite that fact, thinking he had no real life.

Harry had snapped back to earth, looking over at Renee with a large grin.

"Ron, you just got to grin and bear it. Just pull her aside, fall to your knees, and land the question on her! It's hard at first, but it's really worth it to see their eyes, feel their embrace, and here that one little word that will change your life forever."

"You make it seem so easy," Ron whispered, feeling embarrassed.

"Who's saying it was easy?" Harry laughed, drinking the last of his tea.

Suddenly, the dining room doors flung open and a shadow of a figure stood in the doorway. Everyone sat straight up in their seats. Ron looked from Harry to the figure, and from the figure to Harry. Whoever it was, stepped into the light, and Harry immediately relaxed.

"Sirius!"

With a closer look, Ron recognized the man who was now sitting down across from them, as Harry's Godfather. He looked so much older, grey streaks through his once dark black hair. Although his build was fuller, healthier looking then it had been a long time ago back at Hogwarts, age definately had done some work on his face.

He breathed a quiet hello, dragging over a kettle of tea while Renee went to get him a cup. Harry walked over to sit by him, great concern in his eyes.

"What is it, Sirius?"

"I just got word from Lupin," He said quickly. "He was over on the south side of London today."

"Yes, go on." Harry's voice became serious and professional.

"There was... another attack."

Renee had come over with a cup, pouring tea from the kettle that Sirius had been toying with and handing it to him with a grave expression.

"Who now?" She asked quietly.

Sirius looked up at her, a sad and exhausted look on his face. He reached out his hand and took Renee's, sighing deeply.

"Oh God," Renee whispered.

"I'm afraid they found your brother, Renee."


Chapter Four: The Events


Renee's face went white. Shaking her head, she slowly lowered herself in the chair behind her.

"I'm so, so sorry, Renee. We tried our best... Lupin most of all, but we got there too late. The house-" Sirius said, but Harry stopped him, walking past to comfort Renee.

She put her face in her hands, slightly shaking. Harry put his arm around her, and she leaned into him.

"Oh, Timothy..." She whispered into Harry's robes. He was stroking her hair, pulling her closer. Renee could'nt tell what anyone was doing around her, other than she heard doors close softly.

"How, Harry... how? We had so many charms over his house...why..."

"Shh... I don't know," Harry soothed, continuing his gentle stroke of her hair, which Renee had always loved. But it did little to comfort her mind.

She pulled her head from his robes, looking up at him with tears streaming from her eyes. His face was very solemn, looking down at her and tucking the strands of hair sticking to her face behind her ears. Looking back down to the floor, the tears came down with full force. Harry pulled her up, embracing her, and she sobbed into his shoulder. He began to rock her gently, rubbing her back.

After a long while, Renee whispered through her tears.

"What are we going to do, Harry?"

Harry did'nt answer right away, and Renee nuzzled closer to his neck.

"We'll find them..." He answered quietly with a dangerous tone, making Renee's quieted sobs stop. "And then we'll make them pay for everything."
****


Harry had led Renee back to the bedroom that Professor Dumbledore was letting them stay in. He helped her into bed, kissing her gently, and left to take care of Ron and Hermione.

They were waiting at the foot of the huge staircase that led from the large foyer. Both of them were talking to each other, concerned. Harry could'nt see Sirius anywhere.

When Harry approached, they quieted, looking uneasily at the floor. As Harry got off the stairwell, Hermione walked over to place a hand on his shoulder.

"How is she?"

Harry shook his head, taking her hand in his and swinging it slightly.

"She's sleeping now, but... well, you know." He sighed, letting go of her hand and running both of his through his messy hair.

Ron had a disgusted look on his face, staring at the floor.

"How low can they sink...?"

Hermione crossed her arms, a worried look in her eyes. She turned to Harry.

"Harry, you do know what this means?"

He simply nodded, walking past them to look out the darkened window. A fire crackled in a nearby fireplace, and he leaned on the window sill, shaking his head.

He felt Ron come over to stand by him, Harry did'nt look up but continued to stare bitterly at the floor. They were all quiet a momment, Harry did'nt notice what anyone was doing around him.

"We're next, are'nt we?" Ron whispered.

Harry shook his head, standing up straight and crossing his own arms, continuing to look out the window when there was nothing to see but darkness.

"Not yet. They appear to be working their way up, starting with the people we are in contact with least. For Timothy's own safety, we did'nt communicate with him much... putting charms and spells on his house. Whoever did all this is very powerful, and I don't believe Voldemort is the one actually doing the work. He must have another loyal servant," Harry spat the last words with utter disgust. "Better than Wormtail, more powerful than Wormtail. I did not have a single problem when I dueled with him for the last time."

Ron looked away, Harry knew that the memory of when he had killed Wormtail was very unpleasent to him. They were out for a walk, those three and a half years ago, when Wormtail finally found him. He was extraordinarily ticked off, because Harry did not fulfill his debt to him. For clearing Sirius's name, twelve years ago, Harry had to repay his debt by killing Voldemort by the time he turned eighteen. He never did.

So, Wormtail tried to engage in a duel with Harry, with Ron as a witness. Even with the knowlage that Harry was very powerful, he tried to kill him. But, Harry suspected it was for another purpose... for him to kill Wormtail so that he would no longer have to serve Voldemort. Whatever the reason, it was not a pretty sight, and the memory still haunted Harry to that day. He could understand Ron's feelings.

Harry turned to Ron, putting a hand on his shoulder.

"You need to get your family out of the country,"

Ron snapped up, looking at Harry horrifed so intently that it pained him.

"What? You mean, they're next?"

Harry nodded grimly.

"I doubt they can get at your dad, he being the Minister and all. But everyone else is at risk."

"That could take me a while. We're scattered all over the place." Ron looked away, worry straining his face.

"And they won't stop there. They'll go after all of our friends that are still around. They need to be warned too."

"So," Said an angry Hermione, walking into the room and staring into the fire. "Then they'll get to us... and afterwards... you and Renee."

Harry could'nt answer.

"It's best if the two of you split up. Move far from where you live, don't report to work or tell them anything. It's not a matter of keeping us safe, it's keeping both of you safe. It's obvious they can get past charms and spells." Harry said.

"We better go now," Ron said, preparing to leave. "They did not waste any time after the Dursleys, they'll be after my family next. C'mon, Hermione."

Harry walked out to the door, opening it for them and they streamed past. He followed them up the path to the great vine covered gate.

"Don't contact us unless it's an absolute emergency," Harry instructed. "We'll send an owl to you."

Ron nodded and Hermione seemed to be holding back tears. They hugged each other, and they stared uncomfortably at the ground.

"Well, good luck..." Ron muttered, obviously swallowing his own sobs.

"Stay safe, we'll contact you soon."

"Say good bye to Renee for us," Hermione whispered.

Harry nodded, crossing his arms and shrugging his shoulders to keep warm in the chilled breeze.

"Take care now, Harry." Ron disapparated.

With a weak smile, that faultered into a frown, Hermione disapparated as well. Harry stared at the spaces where they had stood for a long time, the wind blowing his untidy black hair profusely. Finally, he could'nt hold it anymore. He fell to his knees, letting his face fall into his hands, and broke down.

For a long time, Harry knelt there, letting all his troubles pour out of him in the form of tears. So much sorrow in his life, always destroying his joy. The dark arts had taken so much from him, and with each passing momment his hatred for Voldemort grew even more than he thought possible.

When he could not shed another tear, Harry remembered Renee, and got up to go back inside. As he closed the huge oak door behind him, the suction of the wind making the heavy wood swing back into it's frame without effort, Harry heard a soft cough. He turned around to look into the huge living room and sitting in front of the fire was his Godfather, Sirius Black.

"Are you alright, Sirius?" Harry whispered, walking into the room and stuffing his hands into his robe pockets.

Sirius turned to look at him, his age clearly visible.

"I'm not an issue, the question is... are you?"

Harry sighed, coming to sit across from him and staring into the fire. Out of the corner of his eye he could tell that Sirius was looking at him sadly.

"How ironic for it to come to this." He whispred bitterly. "Your father looked the same way durring this situation."

Harry turned to look at him, a blank expression on his face.

"I don't want my child to expreience what I did," He said.

Sirius nodded, looking back into the fire.

"While your father was a powerful wizard, he was no where's as powerful as you. You've lived up to his name and then some. I believe your child will be the same."

Harry nodded slightly, rubbing his hand up and down his arms, looking at the floor.

"I'm not sure what to do anymore, Sirius."

Sirius stared back at him, a stern look on his face.

"You're doing all you can, son. Just let destiny be your guide. You'll pull through this."

"I'm afraid," Harry whispered.

"We all are, Harry... we all are."


Harry woke the next morning to find that Renee was not in bed. She apparently had gotten up early, her clothes were gone. He sat up, yawning, and rolled out of bed. Walking over to the mirror in the adjacent bathroom, he tried dumbly to smooth out his hair. Without luck, Harry dressed and got all groomed up. He went downstairs into the dining room, where a scuttle of house elves were cleaning up the remains of breakfast.

"I did'nt sleep in that late," Harry muttered, grabbing at a stray piece of toast.

"What would you like to eat, Mister Potter?" Asked one elf that had stayed behind to wipe the table.

Harry sighed, finishing the toast.

"That's alright, I'm not hungry. Don't bother," He left the dining room before the elf could argue.

Harry wandered the halls, looking into rooms for signs of Renee or Dumbledore, or even Sirius... however he doubted that he was still there. Walking into Dumbledore's study, he found the old wizard pouring over old spell books, some of them blackened with ash.

"Good morning, Professor," Harry said.

Dumbledore looked up, a small smile on his face.

"Why, good morning Harry. Missed you at breakfast."

Harry blushed slightly, stepping closer to his desk.

"I did'nt realize that I slept in some,"

Dumbledore laughed, closing the book he was reading.

"Oh, don't worry Harry, I was up early and had a little craving for some bacon. When Renee walked in, we decided to have a little something early. But, you know how the elves are... they brought out half the kitchen." He looked at Harry, his smile flattening. "Renee told me what happened."

Harry sighed, staring at the floor.

"Yes,"

Dumbledore shook his head, getting up to shelve the books on his desk.

"I think it's best that you take her home, there's not much to do now, and staying here won't make a difference. She'll be better off alone with you, surrounded by familiar things."

Harry looked up, about to protest when Dumbledore raised his hand to stop him before he started.

"I'll be alright, Harry. You forget who you're talking to. I may be old, but I believe I still have a kick."

"Are you sure?"

Dumbledore sat back down, sighing deeply.

"Go on, Harry. As much as I enjoy your company, you won't accomplish anything here. The Fedilus charm should work, so for the time being no one can harm you at your house. The other aurors are hot on the trail of the ones responsible for the fires, so for now... I am putting you and Renee off duty."

"But, Professor-"

"No buts, Harry. Lie low for a while, take care of Renee... she's your top priority. Keep her comfortable and just try to focus on the joys of parenthood that will soon come to you. I will keep you informed on everything and Sirius will drop by from time to time with supplies. Don't leave the house, that's an order."

Harry sighed, shoving his hands into his robe pockets, which had become quite a habit for him. He nodded.

"Yes, Professor."

Dumbledore got up from his desk and walked to Harry, putting a hand on his shoulder.

"Take care, Harry. Say good bye to Renee for me,"

Harry tried his best to smile, but all he managed to do was grimace. He left the office, closing the door behind him, and walked out of the house. Renee was standing in the middle of a small garden, which had gone dead with the fall. Her back was turned to him, her long coat blowing with the wind. Harry sighed again, walking towards her slowly off the path. She did not look back, her hair was groomed with a barrette that Harry always loved in her hair.

He slided up next to her, able to see what it was she was doing. In her hands was cross, made out of vines and ivy. Without looking at Harry, she stepped out of the garden and walked through the gates. He followed her and when she came back into view she was standing in front of the largest oak tree in the area. She bent down to the ground, parting the grass. Harry walked up to her again, standing in her wake. When she finally turned to him, standing up, the cross was laied neatly against the tree.

Renee did'nt say a word, looking down at her feet. Harry quickly took her in his arms, and Renee began to cry once more.

"Harry?" She whispered to his ear. "If it's a boy, can we name him Timothy?"

Harry stroked her hair.

"Of course,"


Once they arrived back at their home, Renee went into their bedroom and closed the door. Harry decided to give her some time alone, and went to rest in the living room. It was a small, cozy house, and the living room was one of his favorite places there. As he made way to his own large armchair, Harry looked at the mantle on the huge fireplace that took up almost the entire wall. It was filled with wizard photographs. He looked at each in turn, remembering the good times.

One photo was of him and Renee at her parent's house in Florida. It was the first time Harry had ever been out of the country, and Renee had a kick out of seeing him cope with the eighty degree weather in November. Harry had never had a worse sunburn before. Another was taken on the same trip, for they had traveled up to Colorado to visit her oldest brother, James, and his small family. He laughed, remembering how wierd it was being called "Uncle Harry" by his new niece, Lauren. It was then that he found out how good he was with children.

He looked at his wedding photo, smiling broadly. His eyes traveled to some older photos, photos of him, Ron, and Hermione at Hogwarts. As he looked at those, it pained his heart.

Harry fell into his favorite chair, letting out a deep breath. He rubbed his temples, removing his glasses to wipe them. A sudden noise made him snap upright, throwing his glasses back on. Renee was standing in the archway.

"Sorry," She muttered. "Did I startle you?"

"Oh, no! No, of course not." Harry said, getting up.

"I just... just don't want to be alone, that's all." Renee said meekly, sitting down on the lumpy sofa.

Harry cringed, cursing himself for leaving her alone when he thought that it would be best if he did. He sat down next to her, and she laid her head on his lap.

"How are you doing?" Harry asked, stroking her hair.

Renee did'nt answer a momment.

"I... I'll be alright," She whispered finally. "I wrote to James. He's going to take care of everything... since, I can't. He'll make sure Timothy is sent back home."

"I'm sorry, Renee." Harry muttered, feeling stupid for being so helpless and not knowing what else to do.

Renee turned her head upward, staring deep into his eyes, her blue ones intense and red from all the tears she had shed.

"It's not your fault. Never, never, was anything your fault. We knew something like this was going to happen."

They fell silent. The ticking of a large grandfather clock that both of them had loved was the only thing that could be heard. Fire crackled in the fireplace and they began to hear the soft pelting of rain on the roof.

Harry finally spoke after a long time.

"What is it that I can do for you, love?"

Renee did'nt answer right away, sitting up and nuzzling her head onto his shoulder.

"Well..." She said, quietly.

He kissed her forehead gently.

"What is it?"

She looked at him, a phantom of a smile on her face.

"I have this enormous craving for fried shrimp."

"Fried shrimp?!" Harry asked, caught off guard.

The giggle that always made Harry laugh no matter what mood he was in erupted quietly from Renee. He began to laugh himself.

"Get used to it Harry, we have eight more months of cravings to go."
****

"Sir, we don't know where they are."

The two henchmen, Mr. Crabbe and Mr. Goyle, stood before their boss. He was tall and pale, with neatly brushed blonde hair. His long black wizard's robes ruffled with the wind as he stared out on the harbor. They could'nt see his face.

"If I can find out Potter's realitives and his petty American's realitives, you can most certainly find the other fools they were friends with back at Hogwarts!"

The two men shuddered.

"Not many are left, sir." Goyle muttered.

Without looking back, the pale man hissed.

"We must elliminate anyone we can think of that the Potter's would use as a Secret Keeper. Knowing Potter, he would'nt be stupid enough to pick his closest friends thinking that we would go after them. No, no I'm too smart for him. We shall track down everyone and anyone that they ever knew, force them to tell us, then eliminate them."

"That could take a while," Whispered Crabbe.

His boss turned to him, his long scar leading from his eye down to his mouth shined with the moonlight.

"We have eight months, you nitwit. You better get a move on,"

"Why eight months, sir?" Asked Goyle, carefully.

His boss simply stared at him, a dangerous glare in his eyes. The two henchmen recoiled at the site, turning from him and leaving hastily from the harbor and into the darkness, disaparrating.

Turning to look back on the water, the scarred man sneered.

"Draco Malfoy will not fail. Harry Potter and his wife will not live to see their child born."
****

Three months later, nothing much else had happened. It was enough time to let Harry and Renee calm down, and the prospects of parenthood weighed heavily on Harry as Renee's stomach began to grow.

"Oh, and some more of those scone things when you get a chance!"

As well as her appetite.

Harry had gotten up to go to the kitchen to fetch more snacks. Rolling his eyes as Renee called out with different, and strangely odd, requests for food.

"Ooo! Do we have any more of my coconut upside-down cake?"

"You're what?" Harry called out from the kitchen. He laughed, placing some scones with milk on a plate. Grabbing some jars, he also made her a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Putting it all on a tray, Harry walked back into the living room, where he had tried to make Renee as comfortable as possible. They kissed as he bent down to put the food in front of her.

"Thank you, sweetheart." Renee cooed. Harry grinned with large puppy eyes and went to sit in his chair. He unfolded a copy of the Daily Prophet, which Sirius had brought for him the last time he was over with supplies.

As he scanned the articles, not stopping at any particular one, there was one headline that caught his eye.


FAMOUS QUIDDITCH COMMENTARY GETS QUITE A SCARE
Albert Cayer reporting
Tuesday, 22nd of January, 2009- Lee Jordan, famous commentary for the Quidditch World Cup, reported to Australian officials yesterday that he was attacked by a pair of muggles. Apparently, the alleged muggles were not muggles at all but really wizards in disguise. It is not known if the wizards were Death Eaters. While details were unavailable at press time, speculations as to the reason for the attack are that the attackers were not after money or valuables, but for information. The disguised wizards then attempted to kill him, using the outlawed killing curse, but Jordan managed to get away with only minor injuries as help arrived in time. Officials from the Magical Australian government and the Australian Magical Alliance are on the case.


Harry studied the article, for Lee Jordan was one of his friends from Hogwarts and he was the commentary for the Quidditch games there. He was one of the few still alive, as he had joined with the International Qudditch League and became commentary for the World Cup.

He looked up at Renee, who had fallen asleep, her head resting on her shoulder and a book beginning to fall from her hands. Harry decided not to say anything, afraid to worry her. Instead, he folded his paper and closed his eyes, needing a nap himself.
****


"Ron, what's the matter?"

Ron and Hermione were sitting together back in Diagon Alley, this time inside the ice cream parlor because the world outside was covered in feet of snow. They were sipping hot chocolate, marshmallows were drowning in Ron's mug. However, he was not focusing on the drink or even Hermione, Ron was staring out the window through the frost that made it futile to look outside.

"Are you ignoring me?"

He snapped back to earth and turned to Hermione, who was giving him an exasperated expression.

"Oh, sorry Herm... I've just had things on my mind, that's all."

Hermione's expression softened, nodding and looking down at the swirling steam radiating from her mug.

"I have'nt heard from them, you know." Ron continued.

"Neither have I," Hermione whispered. "How long has it been since the last letter?"

"At least a month," He replied, taking a swig from his mug and wincing as the liquid burned his tounge.

"Well, if they were in trouble or if anything important happened, they would surely let us know." Hermione said.

Ron nodded and they fell silent, staring into their mugs. He began to wonder if he could finally ask Hermione what he wanted to ask for so, so long. They were somewhat alone, nothing much happening, they did not need to be anywhere right away, and it would cheer the momment... hopefully. He fingered the ring in his pocket and his eyes glazed over at the thought.

"Ron, what's that silly look on your face for?" Hermione giggled.

He snapped out of it again, his jaw dropping slightly and his hands beginning to shake with nervousness.

It's now or never, Ron 'ol boy... go get her! He thought to himself.

Still keeping the ring in his pocket, wanting to bring it out last, Ron reached over and took her hand in his. Her eyes turned suspicious, but she had a slight grin on her face. The world began to fade around them and all Ron could see was her large hazel eyes and her busy brown hair. For what seemed like forever, they stared at each other, Hermione begining to look at him uncertainly.

"Ron, what is it?" She asked slowly and sweetly, making Ron melt with each word.

He opened his mouth to say something, but the words he had rehearsed and rehearsed for so many years suddenly vanished from his memory, leaving him with a dropped jaw and making primitive grunts.

"What?" Hermione began to narrow her eyes and look at him expectantly as if he was late turning in a report.

Ron nearly kicked himself, sat straight up, and looked deeply into her eyes, gathering all his nerve.

"Hermione, do... well, what I mean is... er, what I meant to say was... oh boy,"

"Oh boy?" Hermione looked puzzled, he was loosing the momment.

Cursing under his breath that he was going to punch Harry, Ron stood up and cleared his throat. He opened his mouth to speak when suddenly the door to the parlor slammed open, making the few people inside jump.

"Someone! Call the Ministry! I've been attacked!"

Everyone inside, except Ron and Hermione, gave the man in the doorway blank looks and went back about their business. The man was fairly tall, his light brown hair frozen by fallen snow. His overcoat was torn in some places and he had bruises all over his hands and wrists. He wandered up and down the counter, but Mr. Fortescue was on break and not in the parlor. The man ruffled his hair to break off the frozen water and it was then that it dawned on Ron that he knew him.

"Seamus? Is that you?"

With his hands still brushing off ice, the man looked at Ron with a concentrated look. His eyes suddenly widened with realization.

"Ron?! Ron Weasley?"

Ron nodded and relief washed over Seamus's face. He walked over and they shook hands, bowing slightly to Hermione.

"What happened?" She asked him, as he pulled over a chair.

"I was jumped, by two guys towards the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron. Could'nt see a thing with all this snow, it was dark too."

"Were they Death Eaters?" Hermione asked.

Ron shook his head.

"Could'nt of been. Death Eaters in Diagon Alley? They would have to have a death wish, too much of a risk."

"Well, whoever they were, they did'nt want money or anything of that nature. They wanted information... then when I could'nt tell them what they wanted to hear, they tried to kill me! I managed to get away when a large pile of snow fell from one of the shop roofs and onto one of the guys."

"What kind of information?" Ron asked.

Seamus took a deep breath, brushing off the last of the ice that stuck to his coat.

"They wanted to know where Harry and Renee Potter were,"

Ron and Hermione looked at each other quickly, worried looks in their eyes. Seamus stared down at his lap.

"Is that all?" Hermione whispered.

Seamus nodded.

"Yeah, and when I told them I did'nt know they tried to kill me."

Ron looked at him seriously.

"Where's Lavender?"

Seamus stared at him.

"At her office... why?"

"You need to go to her and take her some place safe and public, right now."

Seamus began to tremble, worry straining his face as he looked from Hermione to Ron.

"Why? What is it? Is she in trouble?"

"Just go, Seamus... there's no time to explain," Hermione said hurriedly.

He stared at the two of them, then snapped out of his shock and stood up.

"Alright..."

"Be careful, Seamus." Ron said, shaking his hand.

"Thank you," He said, then turned and bowed his head at Hermione. He pulled up his coat collar and walked outside, snow blowing in as the door closed behind him.

"We need to tell Harry and Renee... or at least Dumbledore, Ron." Hermione said, worried.

He nodded, but a frown formed on his face.

"But how? We can't contact them and we don't know how to get to Dumbledore's house."

Hermione thought a momment.

"We know where Harry and Renee are,"

"We can't just walk up to their house, we'll be seen! Not to mention we won't be able to see them... the Fedilus charm, remember?"

She looked at him with her intelligent glare, that always made Ron feel stupid.

"First of all, Ron, if you had paid attention in charms class you would know that only people with dark intentions towards the persons under the Fedilus charm cannot see them. Second, we cannot just walk up to their house... but I can."

It took Ron a few momments to think. Finally, he realized what Hermione meant.

"Oh..."

With a professional look on her face, Hermione gathered her coat and took a last swig of her hot chocolate.

"Well, then..." Ron stuffed his hands in his robe pockets and his left hand bumped up against the ring that had almost made it outside. His shoulders sagged as he remembered what he was attempting to do before Seamus came in. He gave a little moan.

"Oh, don't be such a baby just because you could'nt figure out how to become an Animagus." She got up and kissed him on the cheek.

"I'm not a baby," He mumbled and Hermione giggled lightly.

"I'll contact you as soon as I get back. In the meantime, see if you can find anything out at your office. See if there is anyone else that we know and Harry knows that they could be after next."

"Alright,"

She opened the parlor door, wincing as the cold wind whipped at her face, and stepped outside.

"Be careful," He said to no one, falling back into his chair. Pulling out the ring, he twirled it between his fingers. His vision began to blur and when he brought up his hand to clear his eyes, he realized that he was crying.
****


"No,"

"Well, I like this one."

"Nah, too bright."

"It's a baby's room, honey, you don't want it to be gloomy."

Harry and Renee were sitting side by side in their living room on the sofa, leafing through a book of colors. The grandfather clock chimed behind them and the log in the fire cindered and crashed into smaller chunks.

"How about this one?" Harry asked, pointing to a scarlet color.

"As much as I would like to sport our house colors, I don't think that's quite the color for a nursery." Renee said, turning the page.

Harry sighed, reaching for his cup of tea. Renee continued to leaf through the pages, stopping at every other one and staring at it closely. She then looked up at him, a interested look in her eyes.

"What's your favorite color?"

"Er... emerald green, maybe? Although I do like that scarlet color."

"Well, I like teal or aqua marine... so let's improvise."

"How?"

Renee turned to the back of the book, where a sampling of all the previous colors were listed and an empty square in the middle of the page.

"It says here that you can mix or layer certain colors to get an interesting effect."

"Oh?" Harry grinned, putting his arm around her.

She gave him a sly smile, picking up her wand that she kept next to her.

"Watch this,"

Tapping the teal square and then the scarlet square, she then tapped the empty square with her wand. Instantly, the square filled with a mixture of teal and scarlet, making almost a brown color.

Harry and Renee winced, groaning a little.

"Er..."

"Not quite what I pictured," Renee said.

"This is not working," Harry muttered.

"Well, let's try a different technique." She tapped the square again. The square then turned pure teal, with a scarlet band running across the middle.

"Emm..."

"Perhaps the opposite?" Renee tapped it again, the colors reversed.

"That could work," Harry said.

"Well, let's see some of the other options." Tapping the square over and over, different painting techiniques were applied to the colors. Finally, with the last tap, the square was filled with a base coat of scarlet and the color teal sponged over.

"Ooo, I like that!" Renee squealed.

"That's pretty cool," Harry said, dragging the book closer to his eyes.

"It's settled then," She kissed him and slowly got up from the sofa. Putting her hands on her hips, she waddled slightly out of the room. "Five more months of this and I'll go nuts!" She called after her.

Harry laughed, shutting the book and putting it on the table in front of him. He leaned back on the sofa, his mind filled with happy thoughts as he stared around the room thinking how chaotic it will soon be with a child. But his mind was ripped from that thought as he heard a loud scratching noise comming up from the hallway.

Renee poked her head through the archway.

"What was that?"

Harry stood up immediately, grabbing his wand tightly and streaming out of the living room.

"Stay in the kitchen," He ordered gently.

Her eyes were wide with concern, but she nodded. Harry slowly crept down the hallway, into the foyer, then walked quietly into another small sitting room with a front window. He parted the curtains and peeked outside.

No one was there.

Looking back down the hallway to see Renee standing in the kitchen, Harry waited a momment to see if the scratching would continue.

It did and it was more severe that time.

He looked back down the hallway and shrugged helplessly at Renee. Before he could argue, she was storming up from the kitchen, her wand armed in her hand. They exchanged glances, grins begining to form, and they took each other's hands. Raising their wands, they reached to turn the door knob when there was a knock at the door instead of a scratch.

"Harry! Renee! It's me, Hermione! Quick, please let me in!"

"Stay here, Renee." Harry said seriously, preparing to disapparate.

"But-"

"Stay here."

He disapparated, leaving Renee hotly and with crossed arms. He apparated right behind the figure at his door, his wand raised and ready to fire.

"Don't move!" He ordered.

The figure stiffened, placing their arms at their side.

"Who are you?!" Harry demanded.

"It's me, Hermione, Harry! You gotta believe me... it really is!"

"Prove it," He said.

"Professor Dumbledore performed a decoy Fedilus charm on us, he's the real Secret Keeper. You called us there three months ago,"

"You could have forced that information from the real Hermione, tell me something only she would know and maybe you are who you say you are." Harry said, his wand still aimed.

"Er... well, I trapped Rita Skeeter as a beetle in our fourth year. Also, I'm an expert Animagus." She then instantly turned into a calico cat, the head mainly a brown color, the same as her own hair.

Harry slowly lowered his wand.

"What was the name of my first broomstick?" He questioned, still suspicious.

She turned back into a human.

"A Nimbus 2000."

"What happened to it?"

"It got smashed by the Whomping Willow in our third year, soon afterwards you got a Firebolt from your Godfather, Sirius Black."

Harry stared at her, relaxing and letting his wand arm fall to his side.

"Hermione, what on earth are you doing here? Do you have any idea how dangerous it is?"

She let out a sigh of relief, and Harry quickly took her arm and opened the door. Renee, shocked, moved aside and took Hermione's coat.

"Hermione? What are you doing here?" She asked her.

"Something has happened," She answered, following Renee into the sitting room.

"Is it Ron?" Harry shrieked.

Hermione shook her head.

"No... no, Ron's fine."

"What is it then?" Renee pressed.

"I just came from Diagon Alley, Ron and I were in the ice cream parlor when Seamus Finnigan stormed in claiming he was jumped by two wizards."

Both Harry and Renee stared hard at her.

"Oh, no..." Renee put her hand to her mouth.

"We did'nt say anything, other than for him to get Lavender and himself some place safe."

"Where's Ron?" Harry asked.

"I sent him back to work to see if there is anyone else we know that knew you still alive that they would be after next." She replied.

Harry nodded, begining to pace the room.

"They already went after Jordan," He muttered.

"Who? You mean Lee Jordan was attacked as well?" Renee asked.

They nodded grimly.

"That does'nt leave many people left before you and Ron," Harry whispered.

Hermione shuddered.

Silence insued, the only noise was the faint ticking of the grandfather clock back in the living room down the hall.

"Can I get you something?" Renee whispered to Hermione after a while.

"Oh, no... no thank you. I better get going." She got up and straightened her coat.

"You don't have to be off so quick. You know we don't get many visitors these days," Harry said, a slight smile on his face.

"Ow!" Renee suddenly yelped.

Harry jumped, his face turning pale.

"What is it?! Are you alright?! Is it the baby?!" He began to fuss all over her.

Renee's suprised expression turned into an amused laugh.

"Oh, Harry I'm fine. The baby just gave me a mighty kick that's all," She grabbed his worried hand and placed it on her stomach. He calmed down immediately, feeling the slight movements of something alive within her.

Hermione was smiling and she bent down to give Renee a kiss on the cheek.

"You take care of yourself now, and please keep in touch. I'll try to let you know of any more information when we come across it."

"Thank you, Hermione." Harry said, straightening up to hug her. He escorted her to the door. With a faint smile, she turned into the calico cat, and Harry opened the door to let her through. She bounded through the high grass and out of sight. He sighed, closing the door, as Renee came up from behind and entwined her arms around his waist.

"There's nothing we an do about anything now," She whispered in his ear.

"Yes there is, we can get cracking on the paint job." He twirled her around and they walked arm in arm back to the living room.


A/N: ON to chapters 5-8!! Click away!