Runaways
Chapter 2
Morning July 31st Hermione showered, tied her hair back into a ponytail, dressed for the day in jeans avoiding loose pants just to spite her mother adding a light blouse to complete her outfit. She didn't want the hassle that came with a skirt or dress today. Finishing her packing for the trip her mind drifted. Today she'd be leaving Harry and everyone behind. Damn that Death Eater she was beginning to wish he'd succeeded at least if she'd been killed the pain in her heart would have been a lot less. Deciding to try one last time she looked at her parents who'd come to her room intending to insure she was ready. "Mum, Dad, can I please just call Harry and tell him good bye. It's not like I'm going to dive through the phone or anything. I just need to tell him I'm going away for a few years. Please let me call him just once. One phone call no longer than a few minutes and that's it I will not ask to talk to anyone else just Harry." Hermione begged her parents.
Her parents looked at each other both reluctant to allow the call but neither wanted to be the heartless one that denied their daughter such a heart wrenching request. "Alright, one phone call but make it short," her father finally said.
"I will don't worry. I've just got to let Harry know what's happening I am sure if I just up and leave without telling him anything He'll feel abandoned for the second time in two months and I can't let him feel that way," Hermione said digging through her purse for the scrap of paper with his phone number that she always carried.
Downstairs Hermione's parents stood on either side of her where they could listen to Hermione's side of the conversation. Right now they were watching to insure she did not dial the police or any other help number.
"Mrs. Dursley?"
"Could I please speak with Harry Potter it's a bit of an emergency."
"No I can't call back later and he can't call me. I'm leaving the area and just wanted to speak to him for a few minutes."
"Thank you."
Remembering one of the freaks at the train station was a girl with the weirdest hair and scared that this might be some type of test by them. Petunia Dursley went to the back door where her nephew was working in the vegetable garden passing him the kitchen's cordless phone saying, "It's some girl for you. Tell her you're well then hang up. There's no need for you freak friends to be tying up our phone with their freakishness."
"Yes Aunt Petunia." Harry said taking the phone. He could hear the tears in Hermione's voice when she told him she was moving out of the country. Her monosyllabic reply when he asked, "What's going on why do you want to leave?" clued him in and for a change his brain engaged quickly.
"Are your parents listening in?"
"Yes... it will be quite educational." Hermione replied hoping he'd notice the slight gap between her words.
"Do you want to go?"
"No... I don't think the weather will be that much different there."
"Remember the method you suggested to get me free of the Dursley's? Are you still willing?" Harry asked slowly realizing he would need to take drastic action if she said yes.
"Oh yes... I will definitely write once I get there."
"What time are you leaving."?
"I'll be gone before lunch... it's like a train trip." Hermione said hoping he caught the time.
After a quick glance at the kitchen clock to determine the time Harry replied, "Right take one last walk around the neighborhood before you go. Otherwise the timing gets tricky. In any case be ready for something to happen from now on."
"You take care of yourself too Harry. Hopefully we will run in to each other in a few years." Hermione said hanging up the phone hoping her parents had caught only her side of the conversation.
"Happy?" Emma Granger asked her daughter.
Hermione sighed as only a teenage girl can before saying, "No Mum I'm not happy. I don't want to go anywhere but I do thank you and dad for allowing me to say goodbye to Harry."
"Okay, I can understand your feelings. While you were in the shower your father was kind enough to make a trip to the local shop and get us some take away for a morning snack. Let's enjoy that at least."
"May I take one last walk around the neighborhood before we leave?" Hermione asked.
"Sure we've got an hour or so in hand." Dan Granger said pleased he was able to agree to something his daughter wanted.
Feeling her daughter had finally come around to their way of thinking and wanting to create a bit of trust with her daughter Emma passed her a small wallet style packet saying, "Oh by the way before I forget here's your passport and other things you'll need. Put it in the little pocket on your backpack."
"Are my plane tickets in there?"
"Yes, you're all set," Her father said smiling. Happy now that his daughter seemed more accepting of the trip. He had been confident once they'd allow her to get over her initial hysteria she'd come around to their way of thinking.
—Runaways—
In Little Whinging a very unhappy Harry Potter gave the cordless phone back to his aunt after shutting it off saying, "Aunt Petunia, thank you. You don't know how important that call was," before ducking into the garden shed. Once there he threw everything he could think of into his new backpack except Sirius's motorbike before saying, "Dobby restore everything to normal then hide until Hermione or I call for you. Hedwig I know you'll be better off on your own so take off once I leave. When I get everything sorted I'll call for you." A wand tap later the motorcycle was full size and pointed at the slightly ajar garden shed door. Donning his backpack and helmet, Harry started the motorcycle in silent mode thinking, 'here's hoping whoever is guarding me today hasn't heard the phone conversation.' And with a hard twist of the throttle he disengaged the silencing charm, popped the clutch rocketing out of the shed across the lawn digging in throwing dirt and small rocks everywhere as he tore up the lawn reaching the street he loudly left a long black mark before engaging first silencing and notice me not charms, followed in short order with the invisibility and flight charms. Airborne and banking like he was on his Firebolt Harry headed to the address he'd received from Hermione a year ago. The one he'd spent hours last year at the Little Whining library poring over maps plotting this course to. Of course at that time he'd planned on using his broom to go to her aid or to escape the Dursleys. Just which one this trip was he wasn't sure, perhaps it was a bit of both.
Severus Snape had looked up when Harry's name was called only to see his aunt pass him something that Harry held to his head. Shaking his head at the muggleness of it all Severus returned to the potion book he was re-reading. Only to be startled out of his comfortable afternoon's read a short time later by a sound he couldn't identify. Next thing he knew he was being pelted by dirt, rocks, and Merlin knows what. He'd just come to the realization that Potter had left on some type of muggle contraption when Harry's aunt came around the corner screeching about that no good boy. The first time he realized the flying debris had knocked off his cloak of invisibility was when Petunia rounded on him with her favorite cast iron frying pan giving him several good whacks while cussing him out by name before he was able to gather his wits and apparate back to Hogsmeade where he trekked back to Hogwarts cursing Harry, his father, his godfather and other assorted relations including his aunt whose blows were now starting to hurt. Severus was not looking forward to the ministrations of Hogwarts resident healer Poppy Pomfrey nor the ensuing conversation with Albus Dumbledore.
—Runaways—
Harry was lamenting how much different looking at a map and looking at the real thing differed as he studied the ground below. Deciding he had to do something Harry rose higher. As he did the layout of the streets began to match the map he'd memorized. Finally locating Hermione's street Harry dove down spotting Hermione walking with her parents, as he grew close.
Hermione was wondering when Harry would make his move. They were almost back to her house and no sign of him. Having told her parents she wanted to get used to having it she wore her backpack as she walked like a prisoner being escorted with her father on one side and her mother on the other making one final loop around the neighborhood. All that was left was to cross the street; the taxi her parents called to take them to the airport before starting the walk would be arriving shortly once she was in the taxi it would be too late. Suddenly Hermione's thoughts were interrupted by a motorcycle roaring straight at them. Her father ran for the sidewalk in front of their home like a cricket player trying to eek out an extra run while her mother returned to the side they'd just left leaving Hermione alone for the first time today.
The motorcycle stopped beside her Harry's smiling face behind the helmet's visor as he said, "Hop on we've only got a few seconds before your parents get back here."
Hermione swung her leg over the bike and leaning into Harry's back yelled, "Hit it."
Harry did just that roaring down the street and around the corner before engaging his silencing and invisibility charms again.
"Let's get out of the area and then we can talk." Hermione said giving Harry's waist a bit of a squeeze.
"Right hang on." Harry said activating the flying charm and going up 100 feet before swinging back around and slowly flying over Hermione's parents who were yelling at each other.
"Harry that's my old life down there. You know where we're headed let's get going."
"You sure?"
"Never more so." Hermione said her conviction firm in her voice.
"I didn't study the way there so I'm either going to have to fly over the M1 or do something Sirius called low fly." Seeing her dubious look Harry added, "From what I've read you don't actually fly during this low fly you just move really fast over normal roads."
"Let's try this low fly thing you know how I hate flying in any form."
"Right now let's see. First I land then activate the invisibility and silencing. Already did that then I remove the limiter and engage the no crash charm." Harry said talking to himself as he went through the various steps from the book. A twist of the throttle and they were rocketing down the road heading for the M1 junction once on the slip road Harry cranked the throttle hard starting to weave in and around traffic that appeared to be slowly moving despite the speed limit being 70 miles per hour. Harry had to slow down occasionally to read the various traffic signs. He shifted off the M1 on to M6 traveling for only a few minutes before slowing down and becoming visible pulling off at the Corley services station.
"What's up?" Hermione asked.
"I'm hungry and thought you might like a bit to eat also. There are a couple of choices here to pick from." Harry said dismounting and stowing his helmet under the seat before taking the keys and giving the bike's controls a discreet tap with his wand.
"Won't they be searching for us?"
"It hasn't been that long and we're a ways out of London so I think we have time for a quick bite and visit to the facilities then we can head off. Besides I need to study a map having to slow down to read all those signs is really slowing us down."
"In a bit of a hurry Harry?" Hermione teased.
Harry looked at Hermione wondering how she actually was feeling about everything they were planning before saying, "I believe this line is 'If it were done when 'tis done, then 'twere well It were done quickly.'"
Hermione raised an eyebrow replying, "Quoting Shakespeare Harry?"
"Hey I did learn some things over the summers." Harry countered before adding with a bit of a frown, "Though the quote does connect to an assassination in Macbeth."
"I know this is a bit of a rush Harry but you remember it was you that didn't want to take this step earlier. Mind if I ask what changed your mind?"
"Because now it's something we both want. Before it was like you were doing it to get me away from the Dursleys and I couldn't let you do it."
"Oh you dummy. I've loved you for years now. You didn't see me giving Ron a hug when I got out of the hospital wing second year did you? Or have you ever seen me give him any type of kiss like I did you at the train station?" Hermione asked hoping to eliminate any confusion in Harry's mind.
Harry thought for a moment as they approached the building's door before replying, "No I don't recall you doing any of that."
"Don't worry so much my love. I agree if we are to do this we should do it quickly and Harry..." Hermione said waiting for Harry to lock eyes with her before continuing, "I do want to do this."
Harry blushed before quietly saying, "Me too."
"Speaking of Ron, should we invite any of our friends to this?" Harry asked hoping Hermione agreed with his private feelings.
"No, This will be a muggle wedding and I know none of our pure-blooded friends could blend in and to be frank if we want to stick to our schedule none of our other friends could make it there in time. Beside Harry I've only gotten two owls from Ron all summer and both of them were more reminders about Dumbledore's orders to not contact you until he gave the okay. It's like he was writing from a script... Come to think of it Mrs. Weasley probably prompted him on Dumbledore's orders." Hermione said her glance at Harry conveying her hope that he agreed with her thinking.
"That last bit sounds so Ron, but I totally agree about them not fitting in. I thought we'd sent them all letters in a day or two telling them about it. That way Ron can blow up and get over it before we see him again."
"What if he doesn't get over it?"
"Then he will spend a lot of time this school year petrified. We're both a lot quicker on the draw than he is." Harry replied a bit of a silly smile on his face.
"Alright but Ginny is mine if she gets out of hand," Hermione said calling her target.
They both hit the KFC with Hermione helping Harry make his selections.
Once they'd settled at a table Harry split his time between bites of original recipe and studying the map he'd picked up.
"My company that bad?" Hermione teased.
"No, the roads get a bit confusing when we pass Birmingham. There's an M6 and an M6 toll. I wanted to make sure I know just which roads I want to take. Thankfully the run between Liverpool and Manchester looks to be a straight shot. If there isn't a lot of congestion we should make good time."
"How long do you think?"
"The map says five and a half hours from London. We started north of London and with Sirius's motorbike I'm thinking an hour and a half, two max." Harry said as he tossed the last bit of chicken into his mouth.
"Alright then let's hit the facilities then get going. I noticed a second helmet when you put yours away so get them both out." Hermione said standing up and taking her waste to the trash bin as Harry did the same with his.
—Runaways—
"Good afternoon sir, I'm officer Collins and this is Matron Smyth we're here in response to your report about an abduction."
"Have you put out an alert? Shouldn't you be out looking for her and the hooligan that abducted her?" Emma said her anxiety about her daughter obvious.
"We've put out a local notice however we need a picture of her and some more information in order to proceed." Officer Collins replied.
"Pictures..." Emma said looking around the house.
"Emma why don't you go get the photo album from the hall closet box while I answer their questions." Dan said holding his wife's shoulder so she'd focus on him.
"That is a great idea." The matron said watching Emma dash off before turning to Dan asking, "You said your daughter is 16 years old."
"Yes,"
"Where does she go to school?"
After a long glance towards his wife who was digging through a box Dan replied, "Hogwarts it's a small boarding school in Scotland."
"Is this Hogwarts co-ed?"
"Yes, but I can assure you her... classmates are not the type to be riding loud motorbikes."
"Ah, exclusive I take it?" the Matron asked taking notes despite the running tape recorder.
"Very, my wife and I had never heard of it and we were quite shocked when the deputy headmistress showed up to recruit our Hermione."
"Does your daughter have a boyfriend Mr. Granger?"
"No not as such... she is quite focused on her studies." Dan said.
"She does mention two boys frequently in her letters and over the summer but I don't believe she is romantically involved with either one of them." Emma Granger said returning and passing a picture of a 15 year old Hermione to her adding, "That picture was taken last summer. I'm sorry I don't have any from this summer yet."
"Can we have the two boys names and descriptions if possible."? Officer Collins asked.
The Grangers looked at each other then started talking between them loud enough for the officers to overhear. "There's that Ron fellow. She spent part of the last two summers with him and his family. What is their name?" Dan said
"Weasel, no Weasley. That's it Ron Weasley. He's a tall red head who is the picture of a gangly teenage boy." Emma added.
"What about the other boy?"
"She just called him this morning...Harry Potter, that's it. Harry Potter is the other boy." Emma said smiling that she'd remembered it so quickly.
"You said she called him this morning?"
"Yes wanted to say goodbye. We are leaving for New Zealand actually should be at the airport right now." Dan said.
"Vacation?"
Dan shook his head saying, "No relocating things are a bit... well you know."
Officer Collins wasn't sure he knew but this was not shaping up like abduction at all. "Do you have a description of this Harry Potter?"
"Oh you remember him Dan he's the one she kissed at the train station." Emma said quickly.
Matron Smyth eyebrow rose very slightly as she asked, "Your daughter kissed one of the boys, then called him this morning?"
"The kiss was just a little peck it meant nothing. It was like one you've give an old friend in greeting." Emma replied.
The matron nodded that she understood Emma's comment before asking, "Can you describe this Harry Potter?"
"He's short actually looks a bit scrawny if you ask me about Hermione's height with relatively short black hair that hasn't seen a comb in years. Has a scar on his head from the accident that killed his parents. He lives with his aunt and uncle over in... Emma do you remember where Harry's relatives live?" Dan said.
"Hermione said it once. All I remember is it started with "Little" because that was what I thought of when I saw the boy he was so little for his age."
"Did she call the other boy also?" Officer Collins asked.
"No, they don't have a phone." Emma said her quick reply drawing a look between the two officers.
"Was there anything in the phone conversation that would indicate he was coming for her?"
"No, My husband and I have gone over that phone call a dozen times each and neither one of us can recall anything that indicated he was coming for her."
"Did you hear his side of the conversation?" Matron Smyth asked.
Emma huffed at that saying, "Of course not. We are civilized people. We do not listen on extensions like the riff raft."
"Do you have the number she called?"
"No, she dialed it using a slip of paper from her purse then put it back. I checked and our phone does not keep the numbers dialed in memory." Dan said shaking his head wondering how much longer this was going to take before they started looking for Hermione.
"Where did the abduction occur?" Officer Collins asked.
"Right in front of our house. We were walking back after one last tour of the neighborhood when a motorbike with very loud exhaust roared down the street coming directly at us. My wife and I split going to opposite sides of the street. Hermione just stood frozen in the middle of the street. The bike stopped for an instant and the rider said something then Hermione hopped on the back grabbing the rider as he roared off. You can still see the black mark he left taking off." Dan Granger said.
"Was the rider tall or short?" the matron asked.
Emma thought for a moment then looked at her husband as she said, "Short."
"Like the boy at the train station?"
Dan sighed as realization occurred saying, "Just about the right height."
The officer and matron exchanged looks before the officer said, "Thanks for everything. We'll put her picture out with a description of both boys and note she might be in the company of the shorter boy. Any idea about the make of motorbike?"
Dan Granger thought for a moment before shaking his head saying, "No, I don't believe it was a current model though. It looked like a older more classic bike."
"How can we get a hold of you?" Matron Smyth asked.
Dan replied saying, "We are going to have to cancel our flight out and get a hotel until you can get Hermione back to us. We've sold this house. The movers are coming tomorrow to pack it all up including my car and ship it to us in New Zealand."
Passing a card to Dan the Officer said, "When you have a number where we can reach you give this a call and let them know. When we find her either she or one of the officers will call you to let you know. In the mean time you can use that number to keep up to date with the search."
"Our travel window is tight you need to find her quickly!" Dan said obviously frustrated by the slow workings of the police.
"We will do all the law permits sir." Matron Smyth said as she left with her fellow officer.
Once they were in their car and headed back to the station Collins said, "This was not an abduction that girl got on the bike willingly."
Smyth nodded her agreement adding, "Oh you are right there. Once we find the boy we will find the girl or vise-versa."
—Runaways—
Professor Severus Snape arrived at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to find Headmaster Albus Dumbledore away from the school. Unable to report immediately instead he made his way to the Hospital wing to insure nothing was broken during that crazy muggle's assault. Once assured he was just bruised he retreated to his lair where a number of special soothing balms of his own creation awaited him. Several hours later and feeling better than he'd hoped he was notified the Headmaster had returned to the castle. Snape made his way to Dumbledore's office entering he said, "Your golden boy has flown the coup."
"And you did nothing to stop him?" Dumbledore inquired.
"He was on that blasted contraption his godfather left him. Covered me with dirt and knocked my invisibility cloak off. Then his aunt came round the corner and beat me with a frying pan."
"Are you alright Severus?" Dumbledore questioned more for proprieties sake than out of any real concern.
"Yes I had Madam Pomfrey check me out. Nothing was broken and I have my own version of bruise ointment."
"That's good news. What about young Potter any idea where he went?" Dumbledore asked getting to the reason they were meeting.
"None at all. His aunt yelled at him before she passed him some sort of small box. After holding it for a few minutes he gave it back to her, ran in to the shed then came out on that contraption throwing dirt everywhere. He disappeared shortly after reaching the street before I could get a tracking charm on him."
Dumbledore frowned then did his specialized spell for tracking Harry noting the direction he said, "He's obviously not at his relatives home nor at the Burrow." As he watched he noticed his wand shift slightly, "It appears he is currently traveling. I will check later hopefully he will stop for the night. Thank you Severus I will let you know if I need your services again." Dumbledore added dismissing his potions professor. This action by the boy was not acceptable. Potter needed to cease this rebellion immediately and return to his relatives or the Burrow at the least so he could be mentally prepared for his future role in eliminating Voldemort. Besides he needed Harry to convince Horace Slughorn to return to Hogwarts. Getting Harry in to his "Slug Club" would be the ace in the name-dropping game that Slughorn so enjoyed. Without that enticement he wasn't sure in his ability replace Severus in potions allowing him to take the Dark Arts post.
—Runaways—
True to his prediction just over 2 hours after they'd left Hermione's home Harry pulled of the a74, which the M6 had morphed into as it crossed the border into Scotland and following the signs headed for the center of Gretna and the registration office. There was a bit of a hassle until Harry found his birth certificate and a passport for him in his Gringotts wallet. Once the people in that office were assured both he and Hermione were 16 they had their license and suggestions as to their next step. A phone call from one of the clerks determined Anvil Hall was free at 6 pm and with a nod from Harry they had the place reserved. After getting the license they headed for a jewelry store where Harry first experienced the rapid change in attitude his Coutts 'World Signia' charge card Gringotts provided with his wallet caused. The rapidity of the shift from "These are our lower priced rings sir," to "Lord Potter we have a very fine selection over here that your bride might like," would have been impossible for a normal sales person to accomplish. But this man and his associates pulled it off without a bit of hesitation or embarrassment. With their assistance Hermione soon had her engagement ring and a promise the wedding bands would be resized and delivered to Anvil Hall by 6 pm.
Looking at Hermione Harry remarked, "All that's left is your wedding dress."
"And something for you. I am not marrying a man wearing... that." Hermione said exasperated as she waved at Harry's clothes.
"If I may we have a few excellent stores nearby that should fit your needs nicely. I can call ahead and let them know you're coming if you wish." The sales associate offered.
"How about a Photographer?" Hermione asked knowing she would want pictures to show her future children and if a few got delivered by owl to certain parties before then... well that would also be fun even if she could only imagine the various reactions.
"I can easily arrange that also," the Jeweler replied happily thinking his fellow business owners would owe him a few favors from this wedding.
"Thank you that would be appreciated." Harry said as he and a smiling Hermione left.
After learning it was a lord being married the photographer arranged for an assistant to help dispatching him to the Tartan & Tweed Shop while she headed to The Wedding Warehouse. Between the two of them they took pictures of everything.
Harry gave Hermione a ride to The Wedding Warehouse where several associates awaited the young couple with open arms. After a quick impression of his Coutts 'World Signia' charge card along with his signature on a matching currently blank form to pay for their services Harry was given directions to the Tartan & Tweed Shop on the other side of A74 and shown the door.
Harry was in the Tartan & Tweed Shop convincing himself a kilt with all the proper accruements would be proper attire as he was getting married in Scotland just as a photographer showed up saying, "I'm here to document your wedding." Harry smiled knowing Hermione would want pictures just incase she ever reconciled with her parents or possibly to tweak a few noses either at home, Hogwarts, or more likely both.
Ten minutes later He was sorry he'd ever asked what the different tartans signified after having been shown and heard about every pattern they had in stock. When the sales person held up a bright red and gold tartan saying, "We don't have much call for this one it's actually a restricted pattern called Gryffindor Clan tartan."
Harry knew right then what he was wearing. "Can you contact The Wedding Warehouse and have my intended come over I'd like her opinion on that pattern," He asked.
"But sir the pattern is restricted."
Harry looked the clerk in the eye saying, "My headmaster told me I was a true Gryffindor so unless the future Lady Potter objects I will be wearing the Gryffindor clan tartan today. I am sure you can manage to contact my future wife in the next few minutes?"
"Yes Lord Potter, actually they should have a bit of this in stock for shoulder drapes and such I'll have them show it to her right away and get her opinion." The attendant replied hurrying off convinced that if he had objected any further the young lord would have become very unpleasant to deal with and unpleasant Lords are not good for business. However he was Scottish and that tartan was restricted, picking up the phone the sales clerk called the pattern registration office. Once he had a researcher on the line he said, "I have a Lord Harry Potter who wants him and his intended to wear the Gryffindor tartan at his wedding.
"Yes he's 16 and does have a lightning bolt scar on his forehead."
"Okay, I just wanted to make sure thanks," the clerk said hanging up in shock not only was his client able to wear that tartan he was one of very few people in Great Britain who could.
By the time Harry was fully kitted out complete with Ghillie Brogues while some quick phone calls resulted in his Sgian Dubh as well as his belt buckle and sporran being emblazed with the Gryffindor crest. Harry had just enough time to dash out to his waiting motorbike for the short ride over to Anvil Hall the photographer in his wake hoping the young man wasn't too reckless on that motorbike although the flying kilt did allow for some pictures to prove he was wearing the kilt properly should anyone question that in the future.
Searching for her dress proved to be quick the owner was in the shop and after walking around studying Hermione for a minute while asking her questions she sent a clerk into the back to gather a few dresses. By the time the photographer arrived Hermione was trying on a strapless cream colored full length gown with a design around the lower portion that transformed the sixteen year old teen into a beautiful young bride.
"This is it. Thank you so much!" Hermione exclaimed just as a second clerk approached with the question concerning the Gryffindor Clan tartan. "Please inform him that is a big yes. Now is there a way to incorporate this tartan in to my wedding dress?"
"Of course my lady. Your best option would be to wear it as a sash." The owner said motioning for the clerk to pass her the Gryffindor Clan tartan before the clerk left to return the call from Anderson's kilts. Just as a hair stylist the owner had call entered towing a small case with the tools of her trade.
"Thank you for coming this young lady is getting married in a few hours. She will need an appropriate hair style to match this dress."
Forty-five minutes later Hermione emerged from the dressing room the hair stylist had appropriated to see smiles on everyone's faces.
"Good now let us see to the other things you will need today. No young lady should be married without the appropriate garments both for today and tonight." The owner said drawing a blush from Hermione.
Harry stood in the front of Anvil Hall beside the Crystal Anvil watching Hermione walk into the hall her cream color wedding dress accented by a swath of Gryffindor Clan Tartan running from her right shoulder down across her body accenting the dress.
When she walked over to face him over the anvil Harry said, "By Merlin love you look so beautiful."
The ceremony was short and when they were pronounced Man and Wife the woman who was acting as Hermione's witness helped her shift the tartan material to hang off her left shoulder. After posing for far more pictures than Harry thought possible given it was just the two of them the newlyweds exited Anvil Hall to find a chauffeur driven Rolls Royce awaited them. Seeing Harry's surprised look Hermione said, "The owner of The Wedding Warehouse was surprised when we realized there was no way for me to get here. She called a friend who drove this over and is waiting to take us to where we're spending the night."
"What about the bike?"
"Don't worry sir, I've ridden one before. I'll follow you and my boss for the day can follow me with her car. She'll bring me back here to pick up my own after I drop your motorbike off." The Photographer who'd been following Harry around said smoothly not commenting their time would be reflected on their final bill.
Entering the nearby guesthouse where Harry had made arrangements for a night's stay while at the Tartan & Tweed Shop they went straight to their rooms exhausted from the day's events.
Dobby had taken Harry's instructions to hide and await either Harry's or Hermione's summons to mean he was to be close to them should he be needed. After spending most of the day invisibly watching his master and new mistress as they were married Dobby decided they needed protection for the night and were too caught up in each other to give him proper directions so acting on his own he appeared outside their rooms casting Elvin spells to hide the occupants from detection just incase someone was trying to find them.
"Hermione I'm fairly sure I love you but I don't have much experience with love beyond what I've seen in the wizarding world not to mention I don't want to force you into anything you don't want." Harry said looking at her as he shut and locked the door to their room.
"I know I'm not the one you expected to be spending your wedding night with Harry."
"No Hermione you're wrong. You featured in every dream I've had of this night since we met on the train first year. From the way Ron talked in our dorm room I always thought it was him you'd prefer to spend this night with. That's why I said what I did during the train ride at the end of school. It wasn't that I didn't want you, I love you too much to force you into this," Harry said trying to re-assure her.
"Are you sure you wouldn't rather it be Ginny, or Cho standing here with your wedding ring on their finger? Come on Harry tell me the truth, you know I can tell when you lie," Hermione replied steeling herself for the rejection she knew was coming.
Harry shook his head and approached Hermione saying, "Hermione I wanted no one but you to wear that ring. Sure I thought about how other girls would treat me, especially those two, but you are the only girl that looks at me and sees Harry. Ginny sees the boy from all those stories her mother read to her growing up and Cho sees... I'm not sure what she sees I think its ether a link to a dead boyfriend or a replacement for him. You probably know better than I what she sees."
"So you thought about other girls?"
"Only because I thought you'd be Mrs. Ronald Weasley. Now that you are Mrs. Harry James Potter I could not be happier." Harry said giving her a kiss between each one of her names.
"Oh..." Hermione said looking at Harry. She'd never seen him this open before with anyone and she knew every word he'd said was the truth for she really could tell when he was lying. Blushing slightly from the passion in his kisses she said, "I've got to change why don't you order some takeaway to eat."
Two hours later finished up their orders of Chinese food that Harry had hopped on the motorbike to go get Hermione sent him to wash up. When he came out of the bath she went in and changed for the second time this night this time in to the little scraps of lace and ribbon she'd picked up at The Wedding Warehouse shaking her head when she thought of the cost per square inch of these items. On that basis they were the most expensive garments she'd ever bought.
Hermione emerged to see Harry sitting in bed and when his eyes swung around to her she watched them open wide as his mouth dropped open. She was pondering rather it was because of good or bad shock when she saw his desire for her ignite his green pupils to the point of glowing. "You like?" she asked modeling the garments slightly.
"Hermione you look better than any dream I've ever had about you and this night." Harry said as his desire for her was also expressed in other ways.
Hermione smiled and slid into bed next to her new husband and leaned over to give him a kiss that he'd remember to his dying day.
The next morning after a night that contained several consummations of their wedding Harry and Hermione were awoken by a knock at the door of their guesthouse room. "Police open up." A strong male voice called through the door.
Harry pulled on his kilt before unlocking and opening the door to find a male and female officer standing there with the guesthouse manager behind them. "Identification?" the officer asked.
"Give me a moment." Harry said shutting the door and going to get his wallet. The female officer opened the door and the three from the hall entered.
Harry was passing his wallet over just as the female officer looked from a picture to Hermione who was still in bed with the covers pulled up to her neck before saying, "This is the Granger girl cuff him looks like we found our abductor and his victim."
"Is this legit?" the male officer asked pointing to an identification card in Harry's wallet.
"Yes and our marriage license is in Hermione's purse."
"What, that ID card must be a fake. He's just a kid." The matron said looking at what the officer held.
"Kid or not I'm not doing anything until we check this and their marriage license out." The officer replied reaching for the radio microphone on his shoulder.
Minutes later the officer passed Harry his wallet back saying, "Sorry Lord Potter, Mr. and Mrs. Granger reported the abduction of their daughter yesterday around noon causing us to investigate."
"How did you find us so fast?" Hermione asked.
"You two are not the first young couple to come here to get married over parents objections. We checked the various guesthouses looking for one with a young couple using one of three last names. The only one that turned up was you. Quite simple actually." The male officer replied.
"What were the three names?" Hermione asked.
"Granger, Weasley, or Potter," The matron replied raising an eyebrow at the shudder the girl had when Weasley was mentioned.
"So what's next?" Hermione asked
"The girl notifies her parents and we go back to the station and write up our report."
"Love, Why don't you give them a call that way these good people can say they witnessed the call. That is if it's alright with you?" Harry asked getting a nod from the male officer.
"I don't know their number. Our home phone was disconnected yesterday after I called you."
The matron passed a slip of paper to Hermione who called her parents while the police watched.
"Hi Mom."
"Yes, I'm fine."
"No I'm staying here with my husband."
"I'm Mrs. Harry Potter, we got married in Scotland. You only need to be sixteen here."
"Of course our time spent at school allowed us to meet any residence requirements."
"Mum calm down you knew I didn't want to leave Harry."
"Daddy he did not!"
"That's why I called. The police found us but as we're married they can't do anything and I'm staying with my husband."
"That was totally uncalled for, I hope you two have a nice life in New Zealand. Perhaps we'll visit some century." Hermione finished slamming the phone down. Looking up at the three additional people in the room she said firmly, "If there is nothing else I'd like to get back to my honeymoon."
The manager and two officers took the hint leaving and locking the door behind them.
After spending an hour alternately calming and consoling Hermione they packed what little they had leaving on Sirius' motorcycle. Her wedding dress and Harry's kilt fitting in one of the bottomless saddlebags
Over his stubborn objections Hermione managed to convince Harry to return to London for a few days intending to check the various embassy's to see if there was a suitable magic school for them to transfer to outside of the three they were aware of from the Tri-wizard tournament.
—Runaways—
Dumbledore looked up as his potions professor entered the room asking, "Any luck finding the brat yet?"
"No, I thought for sure I'd be able to locate him last night after he stopped moving but he must have stayed under some powerful wards. Are you sure the Dark Lord doesn't have him?"
"To be truthful Headmaster when it comes to The Dark Lord I'm not sure about anything. But from prior experience I believe if he did have Potter The Dark Lord would have summoned all his death eaters to witness that brat's execution. Speaking of that brat have you checked his location today?"
Dumbledore shook his head then tried the point me spell again watching his wand as it again moved slightly while he watched. "It seems he is out from under those wards and is traveling again. I will try again tonight." Dumbledore said before stroking his beard wondering whom Harry Potter knew that had strong enough wards and a willingness to let him stay the night. "Severus... no you are not the best choice. I will send Professor McGonagall to visit the Longbottoms and see if Mister Potter has been a guest recently."
Snape rolled his eyes before heading back to his lab in the dungeon area. Evidently even the headmaster realized he was not the best person to deal with the Longbottoms.
—Runaways—
After the guest house in Gretna Harry and Hermione both wanted to stay some place a bit fancier choosing their hotel based on the motorcycle parking available just behind the Crimean war Memorial in front of the hotel. Checking in as Lord and Lady Potter at the Sofitel London St James started to become a hassle as they were judged on their age and clothes until the manager stepped out from his office and saw Harry's Coutts 'World Signia' charge card that started with Lord. Just like in Gretna everyone's attitudes quickly changed. Instead of being treated like something unpleasant found on the street Harry & Hermione became honored guests. A plethora of perks were offered by way of apology and a few were accepted.
After a good nights rest and a very nice complementary breakfast in the Brasserie Roux. The two of them went shopping in the hotel supplied chauffeur driven limousine for everything as they had very few clothes with them. Once again the bankcard was the door opener. The hand me downs Harry had been wearing all summer had been left at the Dursleys with Harry wearing school pants and shirt to pick up Hermione who only had the few travel outfits she had in he backpack now had several different dresses ranging from formal to daywear along with an assortment of blouses, skirts and jeans and the shoes to go with them. She'd never been on a shopping spree like that and knew she'd have to exercise control to avoid doing it again. After his shopping, under Hermione's critical eye, Harry now owned several off the rack suits along with multiple bags full of shirts, t-shirts, dress pants and jeans. His shoe purchases while no match for Hermione's were surprisingly large consisting of several dress shoes in black and brown along with a collection of trainers that surprised Hermione by their quantity. When they returned to their hotel a porter was summoned to assist with moving the day's purchases to their room.
"Lord Potter there is a representative of your bank waiting for you in our conference room," the manager said with a wave of his arm towards the conference room.
"Thank you," Harry said glancing at the laden trolley.
"Don't worry about your purchases sir. The porter will drop them in your room," The manager said waiving the porter onward.
"Thank you again, Hermione I suppose we should see what our bank wants with us."
Entering the room Harry was surprised to see a gentleman that bore a strong resemblance to Bill Weasley before him. After the gentleman waved his fingers around the room a few times he said, "Lord and Lady Potter I am Pickflipper. I believe Garhook mentioned me."
"Pickflipper you look a bit different than I expected," Harry said with a smile.
"Yes our... other employees occasionally contribute to the running of our bank in unique ways."
"What can we do for you Pickflipper?"
"From the charges we have received over the last two days I assume you and this young lady have married?"
"Yes, we were married in Gretna Green yesterday." Harry replied.
"Very good I have brought her a wallet similar to yours pending your approval."
"A wallet for Hermione was a very good idea, thank you. I was planning on visiting Gringotts to see if something like this was possible." Harry said pleased Pickflipper had anticipated his desire.
"Harry how much did Sirius leave you?" Hermione asked.
"I believe it was 200,000 galleons, Pickflipper can you update Hermione and I as to just how we stand?"
"Of course but I should inform you an attempt was made to access The main Potter vault just before your birthday by a person using one of the old keys. The individual was quite upset they were unable to gain access and had to be escorted out. Also per your grandfather's directions your personal vault was topped back up to 100,000 galleons on your birthday."
Hermione looked at Harry then asked, "Pickflipper you said a person tried to access the main Potter vault. Don't you know who?"
"No Mrs. Potter. Gringotts actually is two types of Bank at the same time one is the type his trust vault is which is the type you might be used to. We track access and how much money is in it. The second type is more of a secure deposit bank. We are required by our rules to note how much money is in the vault before and after when we add money to it or take money as we do on Harry's birthday. Other than those times what happens with the contents of any vault is the vault owners responsibility to track, as are the keys to any vault they may own.
The main Potter vault was locked down upon the death of James and Lily Potter and when Mr. Potter visits the bank after his 30th birthday we will issue new keys to him and whoever he chooses." Pickflipper said unapologetically.
Wanting to change the focus slightly Hermione decided to ask, "You said his current vault was topped off to 100,000 Galleons? From which account?"
Getting a nod to proceed from Harry Pickflipper replied, "The main Potter vaults."
"So I have to live on only 100,000 Galleons a year until then?" Harry asked amusement in his voice.
"Oh no. Now that you are married it increases to the full 300,000 Galleons where it will stay until you turn thirty."
"Then we have 300,000 Galleons per year to live on?" Hermione asked shocked.
"Not at all you have complete access to your mother's muggle investments. She stipulated control of her accounts were to be released to you upon your marriage."
"Pickflipper can you just give us a rough idea how much we can spend over the next year without depleting our main funds. It doesn't have to be precise," Harry asked.
"The three other vaults I mentioned earlier consist of The Potter investment vault which has investments returning more than 1,000,000 galleons a year so you could use all of the 300,000 galleons without a problem. The last Vault is the Potter family heirloom vault which you can visit at any time but not remove anything from until you are thirty."
"That's roughly one and a half million dollars a year Harry!" Hermione exclaimed staring at her husband.
"I didn't mention Mrs. Potter's investments. She took the money her parents gave the newlyweds and a good bit that came from her in-laws. Using that money she set up an aggressive investment strategy in purely muggle stocks managed by one of our associate companies."
Harry interrupted saying, "Aunt Petunia never mentioned getting any money from her parents in all her rants."
"Your aunt invested it all in Grunnings, I believe that is how your uncle became the director of Grunnings. It was more due to the stock his wife owned than his own skills. Your mother on the other hand while never acknowledged as a seer, proved to be a very accurate one when it came to the London stock market."
"Don't tell me She's worth just a bit less than my father." Harry sighed.
"Actually were she alive she could buy both the Potter's and Black's out. In muggle terms she is worth above ten thousand million pounds. She is envied by the investment managers at Gringotts not a one of them has come close to her return on investment."
Seeing Harry silently mouthing 'thousand million pounds' Hermione asked, "How much of that is available to Harry?"
"All of it. Mrs. Potter placed no limits on her son's access should she die." Once they'd had a few moments to recover Pickflipper continued, "There are several groups looking for Lord Potter and their spies are everywhere. We found a Gringotts human employee Dumbledore subverted. Upon questioning that individual claims no Gringotts information was given to Dumbledore stating he only allowed Dumbledore the impression of success to protect their family. That employee has been marginalized and their fate will be debated at the next meeting of Gringotts board, although the prompt acknowledgement of the attempt when confronted will work in their favor, although by our rules any attempt at subversion was required to be reported to his superior immediately.
I would strongly advise against either of you visiting any wizarding area in England. If you plan on staying in London I advise changing hotels, this one is rather close to Charing Cross Road." Pickflipper said with typical goblin bluntness.
Harry strongly suspected the individual mentioned was Bill Weasley and wanted to say something in Bill's defense but as he thought about what to say he realized Bill was actually working to kidnap him and return him to Dumbledore's control. That thought lead inexorable to the thought of what Dumbledore would do when he found out He and Hermione were married. 'Nope not going to speak up for Bill if Gringotts dumps him I wonder if Dumbledore will hire him at Hogwarts like he did his other spy?' Harry thought firming up his course of action on that front.
Hermione watched Harry as he obviously thought about what Pickflipper had said not wanting to interrupt his train of thought. She was a bit shocked when he asked, "Pickflipper you said there are several groups hunting me?"
"Yes, We have been approached by the ministry, I mentioned Dumbledore's spy, and our door guards have reported there are several individuals taking turns watching Diagon alley. We suspect they are members of another group that are hunting for you as it appears they are not bothering anyone else in the alley."
"How come they haven't found us yet? A simple point me spell would lead them to us if they did multiple apparitions." Hermione said confusion evident in her voice.
"I believe your house elf has protected you both nights," Pickflipper said passing the wallet he'd brought to Hermione.
"House elf? We own a house elf?" Hermione said her voice rising as she turned to confront Harry.
"Hermione can we talk about that in a bit. I think it would be a better use of Pickflipper's time if we talked about what to do next." Harry said looking her in the eye.
She nodded knowing he was right but fully intending to discuss their owning any self-aware being once they knew what their course of action was.
"Thanks, love. Let me see if I can sum this up quickly. We have at least three groups of witches and wizards hunting me in England." Harry stated looking at Pickflipper as he said the last portion.
"True Lord Potter."
"I suspect they will continue to search for me for an extended period of time no matter what we say or do?" Harry continued looking at Pickflipper for confirmation.
"Also true I suspect."
"We'd planned on staying in London for a week or so is there a hotel you'd suggest?" Harry asked.
"Several, through your mother you own a significant position in Hilton and through Coutts we have a relationship with their hotels here including having their Canary Wharf hotel warded after an incident in the last war."
Harry looked toward Hermione raising his eyebrows in obvious question, which brought a nod of her head. "I think we have enough information to make our decisions Pickflipper I thank you for your assistance."
"Not at all Lord Potter. If I can be of any further assistance with any requests or other items don't hesitate to send your elf to me. Now that I know Dobby is bonded to you. He will provide a far safer delivery means than your distinctive owl. Before I take my leave let me add the silencing charms on this room will last only another half an hour." Pickflipper said before quickly leaving not wanting to be around an obviously upset Lady Potter. Females of any species could be so unpredictable.
"Hermione, love," Harry tried several times to interrupt Hermione's rant finally choosing to let her get it out of her system before he spoke again.
Ten minutes later Hermione was looking at Harry asking, "You know how I feel about this. So tell me why knowing this why on earth did you asked me to marry you knowing you'd already bonded a house elf?"
Realizing the time had come for his reply Harry said, "I asked you to marry me because I couldn't envision living without you. As to why I took Dobby into the family. It's a bit complicated. Sirius left me memories and a stack of notebooks. That's what I've been doing most of the summer reading those notebooks and reviewing the memories he left me. There was a bit about house elves in them and when I called for Dobby he came and verified what I'd learned."
Seeing Hermione was listening now Harry continued, "Kreacher's problem wasn't all caused by Sirius's mother. A good part of it was living without being bonded to a wizard or witch. You know how excitable Dobby's been well that's the first signs of a house elf going mad. Dobby needed to bond with a witch or wizard to save his sanity. All I ask is you don't do anything rash until I can show you everything Sirius left me then if you want I'll set Dobby free. He will hopefully be able to find another master."
Hermione looked up from the chair she'd taken while Harry spoke. She had an intense dislike of slavery in any form but if what Harry was saying was true she might and she emphasized might be able to accept it. She just hoped that it calmed the elf down.
"Dobby," Harry called out.
"Yes, Harry?" Dobby said appearing with a slight pop.
"Have you been protecting Hermione and I the last two days?"
"Yes Harry, I have been using Elvin spells to insure neither of you could be found."
"Thank you Dobby I didn't realize you where doing such a good job of insuring our safety." Hermione said smiling at the surprisingly calm house elf.
"We will be moving to a hotel Pickflipper suggested which is warded will you be able to come with us?" Harry asked.
"I heard what was said earlier. I will go pack your things. May Dobby suggest something?"
"Of course."
"Dobby thinks he should pick up another trunk like the one he did from master Potter for his Lady. Also Lady Potter should think about getting a female house elf to help her with her things. Dobby will do it but it isn't proper for a woman of her station to have a male house elf handling her things."
"The trunk is a great idea Dobby. Get two, one a library model if possible Mrs. Potter does love her books." Harry replied smiling keeping his mouth shut about the other elf. He was in enough trouble with Hermione as it was.
"Dobby after I review the information Harry has I will think about a female elf to help you. Is that enough?" Hermione asked looking at the elf.
"Dobby thanks mistress and will see what he can do about the trunks," and with another slight pop he vanished.
While he was gone Harry and Hermione changed into their traveling clothes for the short ride knowing all they had to do was hire a taxi, fill up the back seat with their purchases, and have it follow them.
An hour later they were at the Hilton Canary Wharf hotel their things in the taxi that was pulling up to the front door. Their reception here was very different. A doorman asked, "Harry and Hermione Potter?" as they walked up to the front entrance. Harry's nod of agreement had him motioning to the doorman behind him to grab their bags out of the taxi.
"I still need to pay him." Harry said.
"Don't worry about it sir. We'll pay him and it will appear on your bill."
"Thanks make sure he gets a good tip he had to lead the way here." Hermione added as she followed Harry up the steps and into the hotel where they approached a well lit reception desk.
The clerk didn't blink as Harry handed over his charge card. "Mr. Potter we've been expecting you."
"You have?"
"Yes sir your bank called our manager half an hour ago. They wanted to insure you would encounter no problems."
"That was nice of them," Hermione said thinking that was shortly after they'd checked out of their other hotel.
"Yes, let's see they requested you be booked in to one of our Executive Suites."
"That will be fine." Harry said watching as their baggage was brought in.
They were no sooner in their room before Hermione turned to Harry saying, "Show me those memories and notebooks."
Harry smiled and quickly began going though the notebooks sitting in the trunk Dobby had procured for him when he was living in his uncle's garden shed.
"There's more here than just about house elves." Hermione commented once she saw the memory vials, pensive and notebooks.
"Yes there's a lot of family and pureblood knowledge in these along with a lot of family history. Some of it reads like that portion of the Bible where someone begets someone else that then begets again. Did you know as the de facto head of House Potter I should have been taking lessons since I was five on proper behavior and decorum." Harry said shaking his head.
"You're sharing this all with me, right?" Hermione announced more than asked.
"As you will be the mother of the next Lord Potter I think it's only fair that you know all this too."
Hermione stopped sitting down quickly, "That's right I will be the mother of the next generation of Potter's." she muttered to herself wondering why that struck her so hard just now.
For his part Harry decided holding her was the best course of action for now.
That course of action continued for the next two days with room service and Dobby both doing their share of work as the young couple debated their next move. Harry ended up telling Hermione more about his life with the Dursleys in those two days than he had in the previous five years he'd known her.
Hermione thought she knew Harry before they were married now after these two days she felt she really understood him. Knowing all this background information caused all the things he'd done along with statements he'd made, that had not made any sense at the time now to be understandable. Hermione had naturally reciprocated with more details of her life. Harry now knew more about her than anyone with the possible exception of her mother. Ron and his family were still a sticking point between them discussed only in general terms at the start. Harry was a proponent of a two group theory, the ones for him and the ones against. With only the Twins and possible Ron in the for him group and everyone else including prat Percy and stalker Ginny in the other group. While Hermione argued for a three or even four group theory; For Harry, against Harry, don't care, and finally undecided.