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Back Chapters Story Index 1. After the Battle 2. A Return to the Burrow 3. The Road Already Travelled 4. Nightmares and Happiness 5. A Sacrifice For Love 6. The Boy Who Lives 7. Freds Final Farewell 8. The Difference a Day Makes 9. Dinners and Decisions 10. An Ideal Summer 11. The Hallowed Halls 12. The Student and the Teacher 13. Lessons to be Learnt 14. A Testing Situation 15. Warnings and Weekends 16. Halloween 17. Trials and Tribulations 18. Practice Makes Perfect 19. The Calm Before... 20. The Station 21. Aftermath 22. A Happy Holiday... Sort Of 23. Christmas at the Burrow 24. Fire and Water 25. From London to Hogwarts 26. Winter's End 27. The Sins of the Father 28. Fight or Flight 29. Fallout and Freedom 30. The Last Train Ride 31. A New Day Dawns Next

Harry Potter and the Wrath of the Fallen by sjg74
Chapter 8 : The Difference a Day Makes

Rating: Mature

Chapter Reviews: 11

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Harry woke early with a mild head ache. He grabbed his glasses from the bedside table and put them on. He lifted Ginny's arm from across his chest and sat up slowly, gingerly rubbing his temples. Too much Firewhiskey, Harry thought to himself ruefully.

He looked down at the sleeping form of Ginny as he heard a soft snoring coming from beside him. He smiled at her and kissed her shoulder before he slid out of bed, grabbed a towel which hung from the door, and made his way to the shower one floor up.

As Harry opened the door and stepped into the bathroom he nearly tripped over Ron's foot. I should have knocked first, he told himself. Ron, his hair still wet, stood their wearing only a towel around his waist and looking at Harry with a lopsided grin as he began to turn bright red. Harry noticed the shower was still running.

"Who's in here with you?" he asked before he could stop himself.

"Who do you think?" replied Ron as the redness reached his ears.

A voice came from the shower, "Who are you talking to, Ron?" asked Hermione.

Ron started pushing Harry back out the bathroom door, "Just a nosy fool, 'Mione. Don't worry about it," said Ron as he closed the door in Harry's face.

Harry laughed to himself as he headed back down to Ginny's room with his towel around his neck, and sat on the bed next to Ginny.

A muffled moan from beside him announced that he had accidentally woken Ginny. She rolled over and looked at Harry with bleary eyes, but she still managed a faint smile.

"Hey beautiful, sorry to wake you," said Harry softly.

Ginny sat up in the bed and kissed Harry good morning.

"Are you going to have a shower?" she asked, seeing his towel.

"Ah… not right now. The bathrooms a little crowded at the moment." Harry told Ginny of his encounter with Ron and Hermione in the bathroom.

Ginny snorted, "I think they've been doing that all week but usually the door is locked. One too many drinks last night I guess."

Ginny hopped out of bed and came around to Harry. She threw her arms around his neck and sat on his lap. Harry winced and rubbed his sore head.

"My poor Harry," giggled Ginny as she kissed Harry's forehead. "What shall we do today?"

Harry tried to clear his head as he thought about his plan for the day. This was his first day in nearly a year that he was free to do as he pleased. He was slightly overwhelmed by the feeling.

"I would like to talk to Professor McGonagall about N.E.W.T. studies when school restarts in September; and Bill said he would take me to Gringotts whenever I wanted to go. I have some explaining to do to the goblins apparently," said Harry nervously, not looking forward to that encounter, "other than that, I'm all yours."

Ginny pulled back from Harry and fixed him with a wry stare. "Why Mr Potter, I do believe you are all mine regardless of your plans."

Harry and Ginny got dressed and headed downstairs, deciding to postpone showers until they were positive embarrassing encounters could be avoided. As they reached the bottom of the stairs they were surprised to find the kitchen empty. In fact, Ginny couldn't remember the last time that had happened.

The couple moved through the house to the living room and found Molly and Arthur sitting with Kingsley and Professor McGonagall.

"Ah, speak of the devil," said Kingsley as he stood and shook Harry's hand.

Harry suddenly felt very nervous and instinctively reached for Ginny's hand. Minerva McGonagall spotted this movement and smiled to herself.

"Hello Kingsley, Professor McGonagall," said Harry warily as he stood and looked at the four faces which surrounded him, unable to read anything in their expressions.

"Please Harry, Ginny, sit down with us. We have much to discuss," said Kingsley as he moved from the couch to allow Harry and Ginny room to sit together.

Harry and Ginny sat on the edge of the couch and kept their hands clasped together. Neither of them knew what was happening, but Harry made sure he had a clear path to the back door just in case.

Molly chuckled at Harry and Ginny, seeing their obvious discomfort. "Oh, relax you two; there is nothing to worry about."

Harry smiled briefly at Molly but found he could not relax just yet.

Kingsley remained standing as he addressed Harry. "Harry, Molly tells me you are still interested in pursuing a career as an Auror."

Harry looked at Molly as she picked at some invisible fluff on her sleeve and avoided his gaze. Harry looked back to Kingsley and nodded curtly.

"Excellent, I take it this means you will be returning to Hogwarts in September?" asked Kingsley.

"I guess," said Harry noncommittally. "I was planning to discuss this matter with Professor McGonagall later today. I'm not sure what I still need to do to finish my N.E.W.T. studies."

Professor McGonagall pulled out a small piece of parchment and began to read from it.

"You need to achieve a N.E.W.T. level score in Transfiguration, Charms, Potions, and of course, Defence Against the Dark Arts. Following the completion of N.E.W.T. studies comes a further three years of instruction as part of the Auror training program."

Harry swallowed as he contemplated four more years of study.

Kingsley looked hard at Harry. "Harry, this is not a career choice for the faint hearted. While I have no doubt as to your abilities, I want you to be certain this is what you want to do."

Harry felt his resolve harden. He resented having someone question his commitment to fighting the dark arts.

"I will become an Auror, Minister," said Harry firmly.

Kingsley beamed at him. "Excellent. Now let me do something that may assist you on your path. Minerva?" asked Kingsley.

"Yes, Minister," replied Professor McGonagall.

"You have witnessed the N.E.W.T. level exams for the subject of Defence Against the Dark Arts, have you not?" asked Kingsley pompously.

"Of course, Minister."

"You have observed Harry Potter's skill level in a practical environment on more than one occasion?"

"Yes, Minister."

Harry was becoming quite nervous.

"How would you evaluate Mr Potter's performance as it relates to the N.E.W.T. level exam?" asked Kingsley, clearly enjoying himself now.

"Outstanding, Minister," answered Professor McGonagall, a twinkle in her eye.

"Then it is my pleasure, as Minister for Magic, to award Harry James Potter a N.E.W.T. qualification of 'Outstanding' in the subject of Defence Against the Dark Arts. Congratulations Mr Potter."

Harry sat looking dumbstruck. Arthur and Molly beamed at him while Ginny maintained a similar look of shock on her face to Harry's.

Harry finally regained his voice. "What..."

Kingsley grinned as he explained. "Harry, you have stood against and defeated more dark magic than most Aurors will see in an entire career. We have decided to award you your N.E.W.T. level now so when you return to Hogwarts you will only have to study three subjects, although I dare say you will find the courses are considerably easier than the last year you faced."

"However, when you return to Hogwarts, Minerva and I would like to make a bold request of you."

Harry knew it was too good to be true. "And what may that be, Minister?" asked Harry with a raised eyebrow.

Minerva McGonagall stood and began to pace. "As you know Harry, last year we were not permitted to accept any students of muggle born origin."

Harry nodded as Professor McGonagall looked sick at just the memory of the previous year at Hogwarts.

"A result of this policy means we will have a small group of twelve year olds commencing their first year at Hogwarts this year. They will be a year behind the children who started last year and I would not wish them to have to study an extra year purely because of the manner of their births."

Harry was very curious as to where this might be going.

"While we have been able to secure teachers to conduct the regular class programs this year, I would like to have a series of special classes provided to these older children which will allow them to cover the first two years worth of study within one school year. This will allow them to rejoin the regular program with their third year classmates next school year."

Harry now had the feeling he was caught in the headlights of an oncoming car and was unable to move.

"The Minister and I were wondering if we could impose upon you to take this class on; in a manner similar to the way in which you trained Dumbledore's Army." Professor McGonagall's eyes bore into Harry. "This program would essentially be a fast track course in various subjects which would give these poor children the assistance they need to make up for the lost time they suffered last year."

Harry's mouth hung open and he tried to close it as his mind raced. He knew he could teach people practical skills, but Dumbledore's Army had been a rebel group operating in secret, not a Ministry approved class with all the attached responsibilities. Harry looked to Ginny for help and found she was almost crying as she smiled at him.

"What's wrong, Gin?" he asked, suddenly concerned.

"Wrong... nothing's wrong, my sweet Harry. I think you would make a wonderful teacher for the little ones," said Ginny, almost shaking with pride in her Harry.

Harry turned back to the expectant faces of Kingsley and Professor McGonagall. "I am flattered by the offer, but I am not a professor, I am still just a student."

Professor McGonagall rolled her eyes, "Just a student indeed. Potter, you are the saviour of the wizarding world and considered by many to have been Dumbledore's apprentice; any child would be fortunate to learn from you."

"Besides, there are a number of other benefits to holding a teacher's position. While you would remain a Gryffindor student, as a teacher you would have your own quarters, separate from the student's dormitory."

Harry and Ginny looked quickly at each other and just as quickly back at the four people watching them. Harry and Ginny both realised that the four people didn't have to be mind readers to know what thoughts had just occurred to them.

Another thought occurred to Harry, "What about the other subjects? I wouldn't have time to teach them everything myself."

Professor McGonagall smiled at her student. He spotted that problem rather quickly, she thought. "We have been rather lucky there, Mr Potter. Fortunately a number of your classmates and fellow Dumbledore's Army members will also be returning to Hogwarts this year to complete their studies in various fields, although I must point out a rather large number also wish to follow the Auror career path. They will be offered similar positions to yourself to help instruct our muggle born first year students who are a year behind."

"However, if you were to accept this position you would be expected to act as the head of this group of student teachers. You will be taking the fewest number of classes so you will have the most time to handle the administrative aspect of the job, plus you were this groups' leader once before. They will no doubt be willing to follow you again."

In spite of himself, Harry felt immense pride that he had trained a group that were now regarded as good enough to teach the next generation. But doubt nagged at the back of his mind. He would need time to think about this.

"May I have some time to consider your offer?" Harry asked Professor McGonagall.

"Of course, Harry," she said kindly, "but not too long."

Harry stood and shook hands with Kingsley, thanking him for his N.E.W.T. qualification. Arthur and Molly embraced him as they congratulated him, and to Harry's surprise, so did Professor McGonagall.

Ginny and Harry left the room, Harry feeling a little light headed as they went to the kitchen to help themselves to some breakfast.

In the living room the four old friends talked quietly together.

"Do you think he'll accept, Arthur?" asked Kingsley.

Arthur shrugged. "Maybe... probably. I could see the doubt on his face and he still has a long road to go to recover from his ordeals; but the chance to teach little children the right way to do things would certainly appeal to his nature. Give him a couple of days to consider it and I think you may have your man."

Arthur looked at Kingsley thoughtfully before continuing. "What are you going to do about the muggle born students from the other years that were unable to attend Hogwarts last year?"

"Well," said Kingsley, "we will be providing extra tutoring to most, while the fifth and seventh year muggle students will have to repeat the year in order to sit their exams. We will have a very full school this year, but with Harry and his friends looking after the new muggle borns; that will be a great benefit for Minerva and her staff."

Meanwhile, Minerva looked a little put out as she broached a sensitive subject. "Molly, Harry and Ginny seem very close. They are obviously a couple again."

"You knew before?" asked Molly.

"I was the Head of their house. Of course I knew," laughed Minerva as she looked at the stunned expression on Molly's face.

Molly's expression softened as she answered Minerva's original question. "They are very much in love. I have rarely seen devotion like it and never in a couple so young. They have both been scarred and damaged by their experiences, yet they have retained their wonder and love for each other through it all. It seems they were always destined to be together and I am truly happy for them."

"It's really that serious?"

"Arthur and I let them share a room."

"Oh my."

*

Following his visit from Madam Pomfrey and Lewis just before lunch, Harry now sat at the kitchen table in the Burrow with Ginny, Ron, and Hermione. His check up had revealed yet again that nothing was wrong with him that a bit of time wouldn't sort out.

While Harry sat and picked at a plate of food, he had started scanning the previous weeks worth of Daily Prophets and shaking his head in wonder at the number and variety of stories about him, the battle, and Ron and Hermione. Ginny, Ron, and Hermione were keeping a close eye on Harry in case he was upset by any of the stories he read.

Harry felt detached as he read the various eye witness accounts of his part in the Battle of Hogwarts, and noticed without surprise that no two versions of the events were quite the same. He grunted as he read of his confrontation with Lucius Malfoy at the remembrance dinner, it sounded far more exiting in the articles. It always does, Harry reminded himself as he sipped a cup of tea as he continued to read.

A series of banner headlines regarding Harry then started to appear. These headlines started innocently enough with 'Where's Harry', but quickly turned to 'Harry Potter in Hiding' to 'Harry Potter Dying?'. These articles were speculative at best but occasionally a true fact slipped into the mix.

One article questioning Harry's location immediately following the battle had mentioned the Burrow as a likely possibility; but the article also suggested that Harry might be at the Ministry of Magic, wearing a disguise while he lived above the Leaky Cauldron in London, and enjoying some quiet time on a tropical beach with his long time girlfriend, Hermione Granger.

Harry passed that article to Hermione but she merely glanced at it coldly before informing Harry that she had already seen it. Harry glanced at Ron and saw the annoyance in his eyes. Ginny didn't seem bothered at all. She shrugged her shoulders as she got up from the table and took her empty plate to the sink.

Ginny came back to the table and stood behind Harry, wrapping her arms around his neck and resting her head on his shoulder. She began to read snippets from the articles as Harry continued to scan through them. Earlier she had been wondering how Harry could read all these false stories about himself and not become angry, and then she had reminded herself that he had dealt with this sort of thing since he was eleven. It no longer bothered him, so Ginny decided it was not going to bother her. She knew the truth and that was enough for her.

Harry read with mild interest about his imminent demise at St Mungo's earlier during the week. The stories regarding his stay in hospital were the most outlandish with wide ranging theories from mental breakdown to a revenge attack by rogue Death Eaters. Harry scoffed and quietly thanked Lewis and his team for the integrity they had shown; it would have been worth a lot of Galleons to any of the medical staff if they had gone to the papers.

Harry reached today's issue of the Prophet and quickly scanned through it. He smiled to himself as he read a small article mentioning the funeral of Fred Weasley and Harry Potter's attendance at the service. Harry was surprised to find only one photo of himself surrounded by the Weasleys in the paper.

Several large photos and a rather amusing article about the attack on Rita Skeeter had earned more space than Harry Potter. The article quoted Rita Skeeter as saying, 'Harry and I have always been such good friends. I don't know what could have prompted him to attack me like that.' The article then went on to quote several witnesses all claiming Harry had not attacked Rita Skeeter; instead, they claimed, it had been witches or wizards unknown who had fired spells from behind concealment and it was unlikely they would ever be identified.

As the four friends sat around the table a large tawny owl arrived on the kitchen window sill. Ron stood and opened the window, taking an envelope from the owl before feeding it a couple of owl treats which were kept in a bowl under the window.

"It's for you, Hermione," said Ron, somewhat surprised. "Official Ministry seal."

He handed the envelope to Hermione as he took his seat back at the table and waited for Hermione to say something.

Hermione quickly opened the envelope and read the letter it contained. When she looked up at Ron her face was beaming and a tear started to roll down her cheek.

"What is it, 'Mione?" asked Ron cautiously. Hermione was smiling and crying so he decided a careful approach was warranted here.

Hermione jumped up from the table and dove at Ron, nearly knocking him from his seat as she threw her arms around him.

"Good news, is it?" hazarded Ron, as Harry and Ginny both watched with interest.

"The Ministry has located my parents. I am leaving to pick them up in Australia tomorrow morning."

Hermione released Ron and began jumping around the kitchen in an unusual display of joy. Harry and Ginny laughed at her antics but Ron looked a little crestfallen.

"You're leaving tomorrow?" he asked.

Hermione stopped jumping as she saw Ron's downcast expression and went and sat on his lap.

"Tomorrow," confirmed Hermione as she nodded. She gave Ron a quick kiss before continuing.

"It will be really strange to be without you, Ron. Why don't you come with me?" suggested Hermione, smiling at her sulky boyfriend.

Ron's eyes lit up as he looked at Hermione. "Really? Are you sure?"

"Of course I'm sure," she said as she placed the letter on the table revealing two passes for the international floo network.

Ron grinned like a Cheshire cat as he saw the tickets. He then stood up and lifted Hermione up with him. He spun her around once before lowering her to the ground and giving her a long kiss.

Harry grinned at the scene and couldn't resist a little revenge.

"Eeeww."

Ginny giggled as Hermione and Ron broke apart, blushing slightly as they looked at Harry and Ginny.

"Git," said Ron.

Hermione took Ron's hand. "Come on, Ron. We had better let Molly know and then start packing."

Ginny and Harry were left in the kitchen, laughing as they cleared the table.

*

Bill pulled his long red hair back and put it into a pony tail. He turned and fixed Harry and Ginny with a stern look.

"Don't argue, don't get angry. Just explain your actions and let me do any negotiating. Understood?" asked Bill.

Harry and Ginny both nodded a little nervously.

"The goblins are not happy about your break in, Harry. They could use the incident as grounds to seize your gold. I would advise you to admit fault and provide them with a version of the truth. Don't mention that a goblin helped you to break in, they would not believe you anyway."

"Right," said Harry, feeling rather anxious.

He had, along with Ron and Hermione, broken into the Gringotts bank in order to retrieve one of the Horcruxes Voldemort had made and stored within the LeStrange family vault. Harry knew the goblins would not care about his reason for breaking into Gringotts, however noble his intention was. They only cared that the successful break in, and out, had hurt their reputation as a safe place to deposit gold.

Bill continued, "I have arranged for the floo network to be connected between the Burrow and Gringotts so we will not have to walk through Diagon Alley to get there. Are you ready to go?"

"Let's get it over with," said Harry, with more confidence than he actually felt.

Bill nodded and looked at Ginny. "Are you sure you want to come, Ginny?"

Ginny glared at her older brother.

"Okay, okay," said Bill hurriedly. "I was just checking. Let's go."

The three of them stepped to the fireplace next to the kitchen and Bill grabbed a handful of floo powder. He threw it into the fireplace and called out 'Gringotts Bank' as he stepped into the green flames and disappeared. Harry and Ginny quickly followed.

As they stepped out of the fireplace within Gringotts, they found themselves in a sparsely furnished office. The walls were panelled in beautiful dark wood, and brass handles adorned the offices double doors. In one corner sat two chairs and a small desk, upon which sat the only personal items in the room. One was a picture frame containing a photo of a beautiful blonde woman who Harry instantly recognised as Bill's wife, Fleur; the other was an old picture without a frame. It rested against a lamp on the desk and showed a large group of red haired people all waving out at him. Harry peered closer to the photo and saw that Ginny looked to only be about five years old.

"I probably should update that one day," said Bill as he noticed Harry looking at the photo. "As you have no doubt guessed, this is my new office." Bill waved his arm majestically around the office with a grin on his face. "I'm not used to a desk job yet."

Harry and Ginny grinned at Bill as he stepped to the double doors and pulled them open inwards.

"Let's go. Mind your manners, both of you."

Bill led Harry and Ginny down the corridor outside his office. Harry noticed there were many sets of the double doors situated down the corridor, each with a small brass plaque on the wall beside the door. They reached the elevator at the end of the corridor and stepped inside the waiting carriage. Bill pressed the button for the top floor and the elevator doors slid shut. With a lurch the carriage began to rise towards the top floor, but Harry suddenly realised he didn't know what floor he had started on.

When the elevator door slid open and they stepped out, Harry saw they now stood in a small room with a large desk to one side. The marble flooring shined as he looked down and saw his reflection. A small goblin inclined his head towards Bill.

"You are expected, Mr Weasley. Please go through," said the goblin as the large double doors at the end of the room opened to reveal a very large office beyond them.

Harry and Ginny followed Bill past the desk as the goblin scowled at Harry. Harry was beginning to feel very nervous.

The three of them entered the office and Harry saw the large windows provided a view over Diagon Alley and out over central London. Two goblins sat on the far side of an oblong conference table, and they indicated for their guests to take a seat. Harry sat down and realised the table and chairs were considerably shorter than he was used to. He tried to get comfortable but his knees barely fit under the table.

The two goblins stared at Harry as if waiting for him to say something. Bill made the introductions.

"Mr Grimhound, Mr Narwold, I present to you Harry Potter and Ginevra Weasley."

The goblins glared at Harry, their large eyes clearly revealing their feeling towards the thief in their midst. The goblin Bill had called Grimhound pointed a long bony finger at Ginny.

"The girl is not party to this business."

Bill made a slight bow, "She is the partner of Harry Potter and is bound to him."

"Very well," croaked Grimhound. "Let us begin." The goblin picked up a piece of parchment and began scanning it.

"Mr Harry Potter, you have violated the sanctity of this institution and you may be subject to criminal prosecution under wizarding law for your actions. You may also be stripped of any assets we hold on your behalf within this institution. Do you understand?"

"Yes, sir," replied Harry, feeling numb at the prospect of being tried for his crime.

"It is alleged that you wilfully entered Gringotts Bank with the express purpose of obtaining items which did not lawfully belong to you, from a vault you did not have permission to access. Do you dispute this allegation?" The goblin leered as he leaned forward awaiting Harry's reply.

"I do not," said Harry, feeling the breath leave his body.

"Do you wish to provide any reason for you actions, Mr Potter?"

"Yes I do. I had learned from Bellatrix LeStrange, the owner of the vault I broke into, that an object necessary to the defeat of Lord Voldemort was stored within the vault. I entered the vault and obtained the object which was later destroyed. I did not steal anything for personal gain. I was only seeking to end the war," concluded Harry.

"The wars of wizards do not concern us, Mr Potter?"

"I'm sorry," said Harry, shocked by the arrogance displayed by the goblin.

The goblin, Grimhound, glared at Harry. "We do not involve ourselves in the business of wizards. We are impartial and will provide our services to any who are willing to meet our fee."

"I see," said Harry, as an idea occurred to him. "Do you think the wizarding community would see it that way?"

"What do you mean?" asked Grimhound.

Bill shot Harry a warning look, but Harry wasn't going to be pushed around by anyone.

"I propose that I give an interview to the Daily Prophet. In this interview I will provide the details of my break in at Gringotts and the exceptionally powerful dark object that I retrieved from within the vaults; an object that had been guarded by Gringotts, which had allowed Voldemort to continue his campaign of terror, resulting in the deaths of untold numbers of witches and wizards."

Harry continued, "I believe you would rapidly find that a large portion of the wizarding community would not take this revelation lightly. In fact, I'm sure you would find your vaults half empty within a day."

"The other option is that you release a statement detailing your efforts to aid in the war against Voldemort after you learned of the illegal objects that had been placed within your vaults. When questioned by the press, I will readily agree that I had indeed been assisted by Gringotts in ridding the world of Voldemort."

"Which is it going to be," demanded Harry as he glared at the two goblins, both of whom seemed to have shrunk within the last minute.

The two goblins conferred amongst themselves for several minutes before Grimhound faced Harry and gave his answer.

"Very well, Mr Potter. We will no longer pursue any charge against you. You will honour your word and attest to our efforts in restoring order to the magical world."

Harry nodded.

"However," said Grimhound, a malicious look in his eyes, "There is still the matter of the damage to this building. You will make reparations in the amount of two million Galleons before you will be permitted to continue your business with Gringotts. Is that agreed?"

Harry was stunned. While he had never wanted for gold due to the vault left to him by his parents, he knew it didn't contain anywhere near that kind of sum. Harry felt the angry retort rising within him, but Bill stood and spoke before Harry could react.

"Mr Potter accepts the terms. Mr Potter will need to access his accounts in order to withdraw his remaining gold and begin making the reparations."

The goblin sneered at Harry before looking at Bill.

"Very well. Narwold here will escort you to your vaults."

Narwold stood and began to leave the room. "Follow me, Mr Potter."

Harry and Ginny stood and followed the small goblin with Bill walking behind them. They rode the elevator down to the familiar reception area Harry had visited on his first trip to Diagon Alley. As they walked through the bank following Narwold, Harry dropped back slightly and whispered to Bill.

"I don't have two million galleons."

Bill smiled tightly as he leaned closer to Harry as they walked.

"Don't worry about it. We'll get your vault keys first and then I'm sure the problem will be resolved," said Bill, as he patted Harry on the back.

Harry finally realised that he was missing something. The goblins and Bill kept referring to his vaults. Harry knew he had only one vault.

"But Bill, why do you keep saying vaults? I only have one," asked Harry, becoming a little bewildered.

"You'll see," said Bill, grinning at Harry.

Harry looked at Ginny and she merely shrugged her shoulders. She had the same bewildered look on her face as Harry did.

As they reached a desk at the end of the room and sat down while Narwold circled the desk and took his seat behind it, Harry didn't notice that a number of other customers were staring at him. Several people hurriedly concluded their business and walked from the bank as quickly as their dignity would allow them.

Narwold eyed Harry and Ginny as he reached into his black robes and produced two envelopes. The goblin placed the envelopes on the desk in front of Harry. As Harry looked at the envelopes he noticed they both bore his name. He reached out and picked up one of the envelopes and opened it. He took out the two pieces of parchment from within and was startled to see the name 'Sirius Black' written on the top of the first piece of parchment. As he looked at it, the name changed from 'Sirius Black' to 'Harry Potter'.

Harry scanned the parchment and noticed that it seemed to be a bank contract which listed a vault number.

"What is this?" asked Harry.

Narwold sighed as he began to explain. "Mr Black's will decreed that you inherit his estates, assets and gold. It also decreed that the bulk of the estates, assets, and gold be held in trust until you came of age. You are now of age and upon holding the parchment all remaining items that were held in trust for you are now yours to do with as you see fit."

"But I've been of age for nearly a year, why haven't you given me this before now?" Harry could feel his anger rising again and he fought to keep himself under control.

"We had nowhere to send the letter to, Mr Potter," said Narwold. "You have been very well concealed for almost a year and our owls had not been able to locate you."

Harry picked up the second envelope as he decided not to argue with the goblin. He removed the parchment from within and found another bank contract inside. This one read 'James and Lily Potter'. Harry felt a lump in his throat as he watched the name change to 'Harry Potter'.

"But I already have a vault from Mum and Dad," said Harry with obvious confusion in his eyes.

"I do not care to speculate as to why your parents had two vaults, Mr Potter," said Narwold testily, "but the second vault was also bequeathed to you when you came of age."

"What's in it?" asked Harry.

"That is your concern, not mine, Mr Potter." Narwold reached into his pocket and pulled out two vault keys and handed them to Harry.

Harry put the keys into his jeans pocket along with the parchments he had received. He wasn't sure what to do now so he looked to Bill for help.

Bill addressed the goblin. "Mr Potter will need to visit his vaults in order to make arrangements to pay the reparations."

"Very well. I will escort you to your vaults, Mr Potter."

With that, Narwold stood and headed towards the back of the hall and through the door where Harry knew the carts for travelling to the vaults were kept. He followed the goblin along with Bill and Ginny.

The cart ride to Harry's vault was bumpy but uneventful. He opened his old vault and saw that the piles of coins he had been left by his parents were a bit smaller than the last time he had been here, but there was still more than enough for Harry to finish school with.

"How much is in here?" asked Harry as he noticed Ginny staring at the gold. She had probably never seen so much gold before, Harry reminded himself.

Narwold handed Harry a piece of parchment. Harry looked at it and saw the total figure of just over twenty thousand Galleons. There was also a large number of Sickles and Knuts. As Harry looked at the parchment he was shocked to see the numbers start to increase.

"What's happening," he asked.

"Interest, Harry," said Bill. "The goblins invest the money they hold and you receive an interest payment when they make a successful investment."

"How often do they make a bad investment?" asked Harry with a small smile.

Bill smiled back at Harry. "Not often."

Harry sighed and took Ginny's hand as they headed back to the cart.

The cart rattled deeper underground until it finally stopped at Harry's new vault which his parents had left him. Harry got out of the cart and looked at the vault door, feeling rather apprehensive about what it may contain.

Harry unlocked the door and it swung open to reveal a considerably larger vault than Harry's original one. Harry turned to ask Narwold how much was in this one but the goblin was already holding the parchment with figures on it, and handed it to Harry.

Harry was startled to see a figure nearly ten times higher than his own vault. It also listed a number of assets and properties. Harry scanned the list and saw that he been left a jewellery collection by his mother, and several pieces of property from his father. Among the property listed were several large tracts of land around Ottery St Catchpole.

Harry felt dizzy as he sat back in the cart. He would be able to clear almost a quarter of his debt to the goblins if he sold the property he now owned. Plus he owned Grimmauld Place and he thought that would be worth a fair amount of gold too.

As the cart travelled deeper Harry noticed they were starting to reach the area were the LeStrange vault was. Harry wasn't surprised as the Black and LeStrange families were related to each other. The cart rattled to a stop and Harry got out. He produced his final key and unlocked the vault door.

Harry felt the breath catch in his throat and his knees start to tremble. Ginny's gasp was clearly audible within the cavernous underground hall. Harry stared at mountains of gold and silver. Furniture and artwork were dotted throughout the immense vault and a single envelope with Harry's name on it lay just inside the door.

Harry picked up the envelope and removed a letter from within. He smiled when he saw the familiar handwriting of Sirius on the paper.

Dear Harry,

If you are reading this then I am afraid I am no longer with you. Please forgive me for that, but know that I was honoured to know you.

Before you sits the Black Family fortune. It has been built over the centuries by taking advantage of those less fortunate, and has often increased through the threat of force and violence.

Personally I never had any taste for money, so I leave this treasure to you in the hopes you will use it far more wisely than the manner in which it was acquired.

I have every confidence you will make the right decisions. You are your father's son and James always knew the right path.

Your loving godfather

Sirius

Harry folded the letter back up and placed it in his pocket as a tear rolled down his cheek.

"Are you okay, Harry?" asked Ginny as she put her hand on his shoulder.

Harry nodded. "How much?" he rasped.

Narwold handed him the parchment and Harry saw a total in the tens of millions of Galleons, and the total was increasing at a steady pace. He felt numb and thought he might be sick. He didn't know what to do with all this.

Narwold interrupted Harry's racing thoughts. "Mr Potter, there is still the matter of the reparations to be addressed."

Harry noticed even the goblin was awed to be in the presence of so much gold. He waved his hand at the vault and said, "Take it from here."

Narwold nodded and waved his hand towards the vault.

"It is done. Thank you, Mr Potter."

Harry barely heard him as he stumbled back in to the cart for the long ride to the surface.

*

Bill's office felt very stuffy to Harry as he sat on a wooden chair and rubbed his temples. He needed to think, but he didn't seem to be able to hold a thought in his head for more than a few seconds.

Ginny sat next to him and watched as Harry struggled with his thoughts. Bill kept pacing around his office and watching Harry. He thought Harry may have been overwhelmed by the Black vault.

Harry lifted his head and looked at the pacing figure of Bill Weasley.

"You knew, didn't you, Bill?" asked Harry, fixing Bill with a piercing stare.

Bill stopped pacing and rubbed his own temples. "I suspected. I am not privy to your finances, Harry, but I knew about the Black vault and I knew Sirius had left you everything he had."

Harry glared at Bill but he wasn't truly angry.

"Is that why you agreed to paying for the damage?" asked Harry.

Bill nodded. "I believed Grimhound knew how much gold you had, but he wanted to see if you would do something foolish when asked for the money. They may have agreed to your little piece of blackmail, Harry, but make no mistake, they don't like you. If you had refused to pay, I'm sure Grimhound would have delighted in revealing to the press that you wouldn't cover the costs of the damage you caused even though you have millions of Galleons."

Harry grunted. He suspected Bill was right.

"What do I do with it all? There's no way I could ever spend it all."

Bill smiled at Harry as he answered, "Happily, that problem is yours, not mine. If I may make a suggestion though, why don't you establish a fund for the children of those killed during the battle?"

Harry felt a weight lift off him as he considered Bill's idea. While he couldn't buy away the guilt, he could help those who now found themselves in the same position as him.

"How do I set it up?" asked Harry.

"I'll do it for you," replied Bill. "How much would you like to start the fund with?"

Harry had no idea. He wondered how many children had been affected. He was ashamed as he realised he hadn't thought of the other victims of the battle for some time. He looked at Ginny for help and she smiled at him.

"Start with a million," said Ginny. "That ought to get them through school and it will prevent any of them losing their houses any time soon."

Harry nodded and Bill picked up a parchment and began making notes. Bill looked at Harry.

"I assume you want to remain anonymous?"

"Yes."

Harry's mind raced. He could help so many, but they must not know it was him that helped them. He knew he would be hounded mercilessly for money if the wizarding world knew he was feeling charitable because of his guilt.

"I would like to donate to St Mungo's too. They kept me alive, and helped so many others after the battle. I'll talk to Lewis tomorrow and find out what they really need."

Bill smiled. He knew Harry would feel better once he started using the money to help others; it was just his nature.

Harry continued, "I will need to speak to the goblins about arranging access to the vaults."

"Of course, Harry. I'll have Narwold come up."

With that Bill disappeared out the door, leaving Harry and Ginny sitting in the stuffy office alone.

Ginny stood and took up the pacing where Bill had left off. She was unsure of how she should treat this situation. She had never had money, and the thought of having lots of money had been one of her daydreams for years. She would have loved to have had new things when she was a little girl. Now her boyfriend had more money than she could ever imagine, but she, like Harry, found the sheer amount of money obscene. She thought Harry was right to help others with it.

Bill returned with Narwold a lot quicker than Harry had expected.

"You wish to make further arrangements, Mr Potter?" croaked the goblin.

Harry looked at Bill. "I'm sorry, Bill. Could I ask you to wait outside for a couple of minutes?" asked Harry, not quite meeting Bill's eyes as he spoke.

"Of course, Harry," said Bill, not the least bit offended. He knew peoples finances were usually a private affair.

Bill stepped out the door as Ginny looked at Harry. "Do you want me to go as well?" she asked softly.

Harry smiled at Ginny. "No, Gin, please stay with me."

Harry and Narwold sat at the desk and Harry gave the goblin the new access details. Ginny gasped beside him as she realised what he was doing.

"You don't have to do that, Harry," she whispered.

"I know, but family is family," replied Harry.

Having concluded his business, Harry left the office with Ginny and met Bill in the corridor outside.

"Ah, Harry," said Bill, a sense of urgency in his voice. "It appears the public is aware of your presence in the bank and a large group has gathered outside the front doors, including a number of reporters."

Harry felt his stomach lurch at the thought of a group of reporters laying in wait for him.

"How do we get out?" he asked nervously.

"I'm afraid we can only leave by the front doors. For security reasons, the floo network only works one way within the bank. I'll go first and run interference for you. You can apparate the moment you get outside, so have a place in mind and don't hesitate. If anybody grabs you they'll come with you when you apparate."

Harry paled at the thought and clasped Ginny's hand tightly.

"I need to honour my agreement to the goblins, Bill," said Harry. "Maybe I should do that now and get it over with."

"The choice is yours, Harry. Just don't let them surround you."

"Okay Bill. Make sure you come to dinner at the Burrow tonight. I'll tell Molly to expect you."

Bill looked quizzically at Harry, thinking this was an odd request considering what he was about to face. He shrugged his shoulders.

"I'll be there. Let's go."

With that the three of them set off, making their way through the building until they reached the lobby. Harry could see the crowd through the stained glass windows inset in the doors, waiting about ten feet away. He took a deep breath, nodded to Bill and Ginny, who nodded in return, and opened the doors.

Flashbulbs instantly assaulted his eyes and he felt Ginny pull herself tightly against him. The questions started almost immediately but there were so many coming so fast that Harry couldn't hear them clearly.

Bill stood in front of Harry and Ginny. His scarred face had an instant effect, calming the crowd as they watched to see what would happen next. Bill told the crowd Harry would answer a few questions before he had to depart for another appointment.

So Harry stood and answered questions, honouring his agreement with the goblins when asked why he was in Gringotts, and confirming the lovely young witch with him was his partner. As the questions started to move towards his recent hospitalisation Harry made his move and disappeared with Ginny.

*

Harry and Ginny appeared in the small park in the middle of Grimmauld Place. Harry quickly scanned the area and was relieved to find nobody had observed their arrival. He looked at Ginny and noticed she hadn't ended up doubled over this time. She did however, look less than pleased to have returned to this house.

"Why did you bring us here?" she asked with a slight trace of fear in her voice.

Harry tried to soothe her. "Don't worry, we aren't staying long. I just need to take care of something."

Harry and Ginny walked across the street and entered Number 12 Grimmauld Place. Harry looked around and was not surprised to find the house had been cleaned since he was last here. He smiled to himself as called out for his house-elf.

"Kreacher."

With a small 'crack' the old house-elf appeared before him, his large eyes looking up at Harry.

"Master, it is good to see you have recovered. Kreacher was worried for you ,Master."

Harry knelt down in front of Kreacher. "I want to thank you for saving my life, Kreacher."

Kreacher looked down at the floor as Harry continued.

"I know I put you in a terrible position, and I am sorry. I thank you for having the courage to do what was best for me, even though it was not my wish."

Kreacher looked at Harry with shock as Harry finished speaking. "I am sorry, Master. But you did call for your family and your Ginny."

Harry smiled, "I did, and you were right to admit them."

Harry held out his hand and waited as Kreacher looked at it with confusion.

"Is your hand injured, Master?" enquired Kreacher.

"No, Kreacher, I am offering you my hand," said Harry kindly, knowing it was a lot for the house-elf to deal with.

Kreacher studied Harry's hand for another minute until he slowly reached out and took the offered hand in his long fingers.

"Thank you, Kreacher," said Harry sincerely. "Now, I will not be returning to this house for a while, Kreacher. You may stay here or return to Hogwarts. I leave that decision up to you."

Kreacher considered for a moment. "I will remain in the house of Black until Hogwarts reopens, Master."

"Very well, I will call you if I need anything," said Harry as stood up.

"Of course, Master," replied Kreacher as he bowed to Harry.

Ginny now knelt before Kreacher and offered her hand. "Thank you for saving my Harry, Kreacher."

Kreacher was overawed by the moment. He had never been treated with respect until Master Harry had arrived last year. He took Ginny's hand as he smiled at her.

"You are welcome, Mistress Ginny."

As Ginny stood up Kreacher clicked his fingers and with a 'crack', he disappeared.

Harry put his arm around Ginny. "Come on, Gin, let's go home."

Harry and Ginny stepped outside, made sure nobody was looking their way, and with a 'pop' they were gone.


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Back Chapters Story Index 1. After the Battle 2. A Return to the Burrow 3. The Road Already Travelled 4. Nightmares and Happiness 5. A Sacrifice For Love 6. The Boy Who Lives 7. Freds Final Farewell 8. The Difference a Day Makes 9. Dinners and Decisions 10. An Ideal Summer 11. The Hallowed Halls 12. The Student and the Teacher 13. Lessons to be Learnt 14. A Testing Situation 15. Warnings and Weekends 16. Halloween 17. Trials and Tribulations 18. Practice Makes Perfect 19. The Calm Before... 20. The Station 21. Aftermath 22. A Happy Holiday... Sort Of 23. Christmas at the Burrow 24. Fire and Water 25. From London to Hogwarts 26. Winter's End 27. The Sins of the Father 28. Fight or Flight 29. Fallout and Freedom 30. The Last Train Ride 31. A New Day Dawns Next

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