Disclaimer
I don't own Harry Potter.
If fact, if you get down to it I probably own very little of the ideas being used in this story. But I am not getting paid for them and have hopefully put them together in a new and interesting way.
Enjoy.
Chapter 10
Hermione agreed with Harry's course of action and so did Luna and Susan, though Susan said she would be letting her Aunt know as soon as she could. They would all be on the lookout for any suspicious or unfamiliar people next time they were in the village.
Harry didn't get much time to think on the issue and the remains of the artefact remained untouched as he focused on his studies, additional studies, DA and quidditch. The first quidditch match was fast approaching he was confident that they would make a good showing.
Harry and Katie had been pushing a lot of dodging into the team's training. It was a rebuilding year and most of the players were younger. They would need the additional training to avoid the Slytherin tactic of picking the biggest people possible and using brute force to win; he didn't want his team to end up in the Hospital Wing.
The game itself was as rough as he expected but his team made it through with only minor injuries. Harry was glad he had ensured so much focus on evasive training; it would have been disastrous otherwise.
"Nice work, Captain." Katie clapped him on the shoulder.
"Thanks." Harry took a long deep breath. "I was worried about this one."
"You came up with the right plan and we made it work." Katie replied. "Now we can focus on our skills for the next couple of matches."
"Here's hoping that they learn from our tactics and both beat Slytherin." Harry sighed. "I don't want a repeat of this; they'll be even more vindictive."
"Yeah. I feel a little sorry for who plays them next." Katie admitted.
"Maybe we could do a couple of joint sessions with them; help them train for that match?" Harry suggested.
"Maybe." Katie shrugged. "They may not go for it."
"Doesn't mean we shouldn't offer."
"True. If they agree then count me in." Katie told him. "Now I need a shower and clean clothes."
"Same here."
!SB!
Harry couldn't say he wasn't making progress as he slumped in a chair in the Gryffindor Common Room one evening. Sure, his progress was far from a fast as he wanted or had hoped it would be but he was still progressing.
He blinked as a pile of parchments was dropped in his lap. "Huh?"
"For you to read over." Hermione told him as she perched on the arm of the chair. "It's my work on the cabinet."
"Ah!" Harry's tired brain clicked on what this was about. "You finished it."
"Yes. I was easier than I expected." Hermione replied proudly. "Have a look but I think we could probably make one over Christmas. You are still planning on joining me at my house for Christmas, aren't you?"
"Yeah." Harry nodded. "I'll look at these when I'm not so tired."
"That's fine. How's your training going otherwise?"
"Pretty good. I just wish I had more time."
"I know that feeling very well." Hermione chuckled lightly. "How you getting along with your Runes work?"
"I think it's going okay. It's given me some good ideas; something else to work on over Christmas. I've also found some potions I'd like your help brewing."
"Sure." Hermione nodded happily. "Just let me know when."
!SB!
Harry was so busy that getting time to do something, especially something that needed a couple of hours or more, meant not doing something else. And there weren't many things he was willing to miss out on at the moment. Well, not that he could get away with; he'd skip DADA with Snape in a heartbeat if he could.
It did mean that he was delayed in visiting Gringotts; he had finally reached a decision on the Black Family title. In the end Harry decided to have an extra intense training session and skip the next one so he could make the trip to Diagon Alley and the bank. He had sent a letter to alert Taildrik that he was coming in to see him and when.
"Harry." Taildirk stood to greet him as the teen entered the office. "It's good to see you."
"You as well." Harry smiled at the goblin. "How have you been?"
"Well, thank you. Yourself?"
"I've been okay."
"Now, to business." Taildirk politely indicated a seat for Harry. "What can I do for you?"
"I've made my decision." Harry stated. "I'm going to accept the Black Family title now instead of waiting."
"Very well." Taildirk nodded as he pulled a file out of his desk. "You've a few things to sign to formally take control of the account. Then we just need to discuss what you want to do with it."
Harry nodded and began reading through the offered file before he signed it. He was glad he had had Susan's lessons, with Daphne's additional titbits, he'd never have understood half of what was in the documents otherwise. As it was he only had a few points he needed to clarify before he signed it.
"Excellent." Taildirk took the file back. "I'll have this actioned immediately. Now, given your new status as an emancipated minor and Lord, you can claim your own inheritance from your parents now if you wish. Also, there is the following information and requests for you. We also need to discuss your investment portfolio."
"This is going to take a while." Harry noted. "But speaking of investments there is one I wanted to discuss with you."
"Oh?" Taildirk looked interested.
Harry passed the confidentiality agreement over first and watched the goblin read then sign the document without comment. Passing the business plan over Harry sat back as the goblin studied the document carefully.
"Well thought out and highly detailed." Taildirk said finally. "Much more than I expected from a pureblood wizard."
"Well, she's a witch but she got some ideas from my friend who's muggleborn." Harry pointed out.
"Muggles have some excellent business practices." Taildirk noted. "It's nice to see a Pureblood willing to use some common-sense. This looks to be a sound proposal and the Black Family certainly has the capital to provide the funding without the need to sell assets. With your current lockdown on the accounts the spending has dropped significantly so you will recoup the expense easily. Of course, given Miss Greengrass is a fellow student and not likely to start her business until after graduation then you could slowly build up the required funds over the next 18 months so it will be ready when she actually starts the business."
"I like that idea." Harry nodded. "A graduation present."
They worked through a few more details and Taildirk closed the Black Family file.
"That should cover everything for the time being. I will forward you any new information or updates. I will also formalise the deal for Miss Greengrass into a contract and send it to you for your signatures." Taildirk stated. "Now, as you are emancipated, we can go through the process of claiming your inheritance from your parents."
"Sure, I still have a little time." Harry replied. "It won't take that long with it?"
"No. We covered the majority of things last time." Taildirk pulled out a new file. "But I do have a list of current opportunities for you to consider. Have a look and let me know if any catch your interest. As for your family's account..."
Harry was pretty worn out when he left the bank and returned to sneak back into the school.
!SB!
Taildirk was pretty efficient, Harry noted, when several copies the contract arrived in the morning mail delivery a couple of days later. He only glanced at it quickly at the table before slipping the whole into his bag and ignoring any questioning looks.
After classes, in the privacy, Harry carefully reviewed the contract to make sure it was exactly what he wanted before he headed to the Library where, hopefully, Daphne would be. He was in luck; not only was she there but she was only with her friend Tracy.
"Hey. Got some time?" Harry asked.
"Maybe. What for?" Daphne only barely glanced up at him.
He got her full attention when he dropped a copy of the contract down in front of her as he sat next to her.
"What's... This... Right." Daphne pulled the document close and began reading carefully.
"What is it?" Tracy leant over.
"A contract." Daphne replied absently.
"For?"
"My business." Daphne worked through the various clauses, rereading several important ones. "This is good. There are no real variances from my proposal, just a few extra clauses. Nothing I have any problems with."
"Are you sure? You should get him to change them back." Tracy insisted.
"Why? They are just give him the right to inspect my business to ensure his investment is being used properly and provide him some additional legal separation." Daphne explained. "There is also a financial one so that he isn't liable to pay off any debt I incur and don't pay. There really isn't anything I can object to; it's a very fair contract. It's vastly better than I could have expected from Malfoy."
"Okay. If you're sure." Tracy subsided.
Daphne considered then nodded. "I am. Tracy, would you act as a witness?"
"Sure."
"Hermione and Susan should be here shortly. Susan would also be a good witness." Daphne told Harry. "We can sign it then. Do you have the extra copies?"
"I've got four in total; one each for us and one for each our account managers." Harry answered.
"Good." Daphne gave one of her very rare smiles. "Thank you Harry. You won't regret this."
"I'm sure I won't." Harry smiled back.
Susan was more than happy to act as Harry's witness when she arrived and the four signed the contracts.
"Wow." Tracy commented once they were done and the two teens that had just gone into business together were putting their copies of the contract away. "Just like that. A few signatures and your life is all set."
"I wouldn't say that." Daphne replied. "I've got a lot of hard work ahead of me, but it is good knowing that I can do this. Thank you Harry."
"You're welcome." Harry smiled. "Besides, I think this will turn a tidy profit in a few years."
"Thank you for your vote of confidence." Daphne inclined her head towards him in appreciation.
"I wonder if you'd do that for others." Susan looked at Harry speculatively.
"Come up with a good business plan and we'll talk. Any of you." Harry glanced around the table. "Daphne knows how to write a good one know if you need help."
"Really?" Tracy seemed a little surprised. "Any one?"
"Pretty much." Harry shrugged. "Why should I let a little thing like your House stop me from making a profit?"
"True." Tracy nodded. "But that's more of a Slytherin attitude than a Gryffindor one."
"Really? I can't really see Malfoy or the like giving any Gryffindor or muggleborn any chance at all." Harry pointed out.
"True." Daphne agreed. "But he isn't much of a Slytherin so her point still stands."
Harry snorted. "No disagreements there. I suppose the only real line I'd draw is not supporting Death Eaters and Voldemort."
The two Slytherins shuddered.
"I wish you wouldn't do that." Daphne sighed.
"You get used to it." Susan chuckled. "Harry forced everyone in the DA to say it. Though you started using Riddle a lot more this year."
"Because Riddle really hates being called by his birth name." Harry replied. "Can't have the leader of pure bloods admitting any link to a muggle parent."
"So you went from just defying him to actually trying to annoy him?" Tracy stared at him. "You really are a Gryffindor aren't you; only they would be so reckless."
"Nah." Harry shook his head, "He already wants to kill me slowly and painfully. It's not like anything I say can make things any worse."
"That's probably true." Tracy admitted.
"And calling him Voldemort is just about not letting your fear control you." Harry continued. "I'm not saying he isn't powerful or dangerous, or just plain insane, but if you let your fear of him or his Death Eaters control you then you freeze and have no chance to fight or escape."
"That's actually a good point." Tracy seemed surprised to admit it.
"He makes then on occasion." Hermione commented, giving Harry a teasing grin.
"Hey." Harry mock-glared at her. "Watch it Miss 'killed or worse, expelled'."
"Hey. I was eleven." Hermione protested. "You're never going to let that go are you?"
"Probably not, and you were twelve weren't you?" Harry grinned. "It's not often I get such good material on you."
"No, I don't make anywhere near as many stuff-ups as you do." Hermione poked at him. "And no, it was before my birthday, it was right after our first flying lesson."
"That's right." Harry's grin didn't shift as he replied then a shadow crossed his face and he fell into a dark silence and focused on his schoolwork.
Hermione just gripped his shoulder and gave him a supportive smile as he glanced at her briefly.
!SB!
Harry half wondered how having a signed contract would change his relationship with Daphne. He was pleasantly surprised when he found it improving. Daphne, with the pressure of getting the contract gone, had relaxed and was acting more naturally. The icy façade fell away even further in his presence and he began seeing her more of her true personality. She was kind, intelligent and generous with those she cared about.
He started to get to know her younger sister Astoria better as well. It started when the younger girl needed help on an assignment but her sister was in class. It turned out the assignment was for DADA and when she sarcastically commented that she wanted an intelligent answer Harry calmly pointed out half-a-dozen facts on the spell in question off the top of his head.
"… that is if you asked my opinion." Harry finished with a shrug. "But, hey, I'm only a Gryffindor; what would I know?"
Astoria had sat and was scribbling notes rapidly. "What was that last point?"
Harry hid a grin as he repeated it.
"Great." Astoria sat back to look her notes over. "That should be enough to finish my essay. Maybe you aren't as stupid as you look."
"Given I didn't think I actually looked stupid that must mean I'm pretty intelligent." Harry teased.
"I wasn't planning on going that far." Astoria replied. "But it seems it isn't out of the realms of possibility."
Her harsh words aside, Astoria managed a small but genuine smile to the older Gryffindor to express her gratitude for his help. She also stayed seated at his table to finish off her essay. Once done she gave him a subtle nod of thanks and left the library, getting surrounded by her friends on the way as, given the surreptitious glances in his direction, they questioned her about him.
!SB!
Harry's year was settling down. His work load hadn't dropped at all but he was getting used to it and had found the right balance and order to make things easier. Being proactive on everything actually allowed his to use his time more efficiently, giving him more time to relax than he had anticipated. He was spending less time in his common room though, instead taking the time to be with his friends from the other houses or his tsukumogami.
The unfortunate, but not unexpected, side effect was that both he and Hermione were spending much less time with Ron. It was hard enough to get him in the library at the best of times but with two or more Slytherin's at the same table he refused to set foot near the place.
They did spend time with him between curfew and lights-out but when he wasn't wanting to play chess he was wanting them to do his homework for him. Neither Hermione nor Harry enjoyed chess all that much and they both refused point-blank to do his assignments for him. Ron was resistant to any other games that his friends suggested making it harder for them to enjoy their time together. The result of this was they spent less and less time with him.
Harry was loathed to let a friendship go but he refused to give up his growing friendships with the girls in the other houses and he was getting more and more frustrated with Ron's lack of effort in preserving their own friendship.
At least that was the only part of his life he was failing at. His studies were going better than ever, working with Daphne in DADA gave Snape less to complain about, and his personal studies were progressing well also. Hermione was particularly interested in the various notes he was scribbling about applying the various runes she was teaching him and couldn't wait until he had progressed enough that they could collaborate. Even their physical training was going nicely and Hermione was loving the lean muscle she was developing as her body was slowly sculpted towards an athletic build. Harry was much further along the process, having been training for longer and pushing himself harder. The odd time they had followed through on their idea of sharing the Prefect's Bath after their morning training had Hermione happily, and secretly, admiring his muscular form.
The months passed pretty quietly. Malfoy was getting more and more focused on trying to fix the vanishing cabinet in the Room of Requirements and as such they barely saw him. It meant they needed to find and secure an empty classroom to train in but it was a small price to pay. They did get to the RoR quite often though and Malfoy would be lurking around until they left, which would be as late as possible, staying 'out of sight'. He couldn't hide from the Marauder's Map though so they weren't too concerned, staying on guard until they knew they were safe.
And so December came to a close and the two Gryffindor's made plans to meet Susan, Luna and Daphne in London for shopping. Harry would be with Hermione for Christmas and then they would head to the Burrow for New Years. Ron was a little put out they wouldn't be there for the entire thing.
Harry had one more thing he was working on, one he was keeping from Hermione for the time being. She had made an offhand suggestion about what they should do next summer and Harry was planning of making it happen, it would just have to be in a way they could actually do something with.
At the end of the term Harry packed his things away. Given the space in the trunk and its ability to shrink there was little difference between packing a few things and packing everything; not since he had mastered the packing spell at least.
Harry made a point of avoiding the teachers as he left the school with Hermione, Ron's protests and curses following him out of the dorm as the red-head rushed to pack in time, and they took a carriage with Luna down to the train. On the train they were joined by Susan and Hannah though the Daphne and Tracy looked in to say hi with Astoria before heading off for their own compartment. Ron only just managed to join them with Ginny in tow and Susan decided to have some fun and made room for them by sitting in Harry's lap.
"I'm not too heavy for you, am I?" Susan wasn't asking.
"Would I survive if I said anything other than 'no'?"
"Nope." Susan teased him.
"Just remember I have a perfect shot at your ribs." Harry pointed out.
"And you are outnumbered 3 to 1." Susan countered.
"Are you so sure that Luna and Hermione would side with you if you start something?" Harry asked.
"I like my odds."
"They seem pretty long to me."
It was the quietest trip yet, with Malfoy staying in the castle they were uninterrupted the whole time and Susan ended up curling into his lap and falling asleep against him.
"That looks cosy." Hermione smiled.
"It's actually quite comfortable." Harry admitted. "Would you like to try on the trip back?"
"If she doesn't can I?" Luna asked in hopeful anticipation.
Of course, it wouldn't be a Hogwarts Express without some trouble. This time it was waiting for them in London in the form of Molly Weasley.
"Harry, Hermione, lovely to see you both again." The Weasley matriarch greeted them as she released her youngest two. "It's wonderful to have you for Christmas this year. Let's get you off to the Burrow."
"We aren't going to the Burrow for Christmas, sorry." Hermione told her. "We already told you we would join you for New Year's. I'm spending Christmas with my parents and Harry accepted my invitation. My parents liked seeing him during the summer and wanted to get to know him a little better."
"But, Albus said…"
"I'm sorry, but the headmaster of our school doesn't decide our holiday plans." Harry pointed out.
"But… The Order…" Molly started.
"Is not an official organisation and also not one I belong to, as such has no authority over me." Harry cut her off. "You yourself were very insistent I was too young to join, you can't use that against me now."
Molly flushed in anger but Harry was quicker and got her with a silencing spell.
"I don't think going into one of your rants right now is at all appropriate." Harry glared. "And whatever you may think you don't have any right to decide what Hermione and I do. I suggest you stop now before we decide the joining you at the Burrow in a few days to too uncomfortable and cancel."
With that the pair walked away, heading for the exit to muggle London and Hermione's parents.
That greeting was much better as Hermione happily hugged her parents and Harry gave them a polite nod from behind as he held Hermione's trunk.
Christmas at the Grangers was a vastly different affair to Hogwarts. The busy dentists hadn't managed to decorate anything but they did have an artificial tree and decorations that they put up together that evening. Harry was invited but he felt awkward intruding on what he saw as their private time together.
This was Harry's first Christmas away from either the Dursley's or Hogwarts. That he could remember at least. His time at Hogwarts had never broken him of the feeling of unwantedness, or just plain not fitting in, particularly at family events. At least at Hogwarts he wasn't the only one away from family and could watch the Weasley twin's antics to amuse himself. Getting his first presents was a plus.
Now he was actually as a family Christmas and he didn't have a clue what to do. At school he could just explore the castle or grounds but here it felt rude to just vanish, and rude not to. Hermione did try to include him but couldn't break through that veil of discomfort.
The tsukumogami weren't any help either. While Christmas may have become popular in modern Japan, they predated that social movement by a at least a few decades and were probably the only people in England that knew less about a Family Christmas than Harry.
Harry managed to find refuge from it all by assisting Emily in the kitchen. There he at least managed to feel useful and not in the way.
"It's rather interesting." Emily noted as she shut the oven door.
"What is?" Harry had started rinsing all the used bowls and utensils before they washed them.
"You and Hermione. So similar and so different at the same time." Emily pulled out some washing gloves and liquid. "She was never interested in cooking, always preferring her books. You on the other-hand are remarkably capable in physical activities. It does seem that you are helping each other expand though."
"Hermione has always been on at me to study more." Harry noted.
"And since meeting you, this summer especially, she has been more physically active. I've seen the difference in her body and movement." Emily pointed out. "I've listened in on a couple of your conversations together and while I don't understand the material you seem to complement each other nicely."
"Uh, thanks."
"No. Thank you, for being her friend." Emily met his eye firmly as she spoke then she smiled. "Come on, let's take these out for everyone; it's really nice having everyone here."
!SB!
When Christmas actually dawned Harry and the tsukumogami were woken early by Hermione. The brunette Gryffindor girl wasn't at all bothered by the fact that there were seven naked bodies in front of her as she shook them all awake.
"Hermione." Harry groaned as he saw her.
"It's Christmas, you don't get to sleep in today." Hermione kept on prodding them.
"You do know I could incinerate you right now." Sutābāsuto grumbled as she managed to sit up.
"Yes. And I also know you'd never hurt a close friend." Hermione didn't back down. "This is your first Christmas and Harry's first proper family Christmas. I want him to enjoy it as much as possible. If you all get up now then you'll have time to shower together before breakfast."
"Okay." Harry relented. "Come on girls. It'll be nice to have some time together."
"Yeah." Soyokaze sat up on the edge of the bed and stretched. "I'm first up so I get Harry first."
That got a mass exodus of the bed as they all vied for their position.
"Want to join us?" Ākufurea asked Hermione.
Hermione hesitated. "No, I've showered already. But thank you for the offer."
"It's always there." Ākuraito replied. "Just join us whenever you want."
Hermione nodded and left to let them all get ready.
When everyone had gathered for a simple breakfast, the lunch meal was the one they had put all the work into preparing for the previous day, they also handed out each other's presents. They opened them after they finished eating; as a child Hermione had gotten caught up in her new things and getting her to eat had been difficult so they had her eat first. Hermione had protested her parents sharing that story but Harry had smiled.
"I can just see a young Hermione refusing to put her new book down." Harry teased his best friend.
Hermione had huffed at him but smiled back.
When it came to presents Harry had managed to get small pieces of jewellery for everyone.
"I know it's not much." Harry said as he watched Hermione look her necklace over.
"It's pretty." Hermione said. "I like it. Thank you very much Harry."
"I've got something better in mind." Harry continued. "I think you like it. I think it'll make up for a lot of birthdays and Christmases."
"Really?" Hermione lit up. "I can't wait to see it."
The six tsukumogami were each looking at their colour matched pendants on the necklaces; sapphires for the twins, a ruby for Sutābāsuto, Nicki got an emerald, Āsuhāto got an amber and Soyokaze got white opal.
Harry got a lot of hugs from the girls as thanks.
Later that morning there was an unexpected knock at the door. Hermione answered it and returned with a pair of expected but totally forgotten guests.
Suano and Kotetsu.
"Uh…" Harry stared at the pair.
"Yeah. I totally forgot too." Hermione agreed. "Sorry, it's been a busy term."
"That's okay." Suano replied. "We're really only meeting because of my mother anyway. I do have some things for you."
"Thank you." Harry blanched. "Um, we're going to the sales tomorrow. Forgetting you were coming is pretty bad of me but I don't have anything for you. If you'd like to join us I can treat you something. And I'll be able to get something you'd like; we don't really know each other that well."
"True." Suano nodded. "And that would be more than generous. I've only got some Japanese treats. Standard souvenir gifts really."
"Please join us for lunch." Hermione invited them. "Where are you staying? Let me take your jacket."
"Thank you. I'm at the same hostel again. It's not bad there." Suano shrugged off her jacket to reveal a nice skirt and woollen jumper underneath.
"How is your training going?" Harry asked to make conversation.
"Really well." Suano smiled. "I've learnt a lot about harnessing Kotetsu's powers. We should spar again something. Or have you been slacking off?"
"I'm not the one dedicated to one craft." Harry shrugged. "I've trained with them as much as I can but I've got my own school work and other stuff so I don't get as much time as you would."
"I know that feeling." Suano agreed. "I've still got regular classes and homework. But I need to learn it."
"Same here." Harry agreed. "And I assure you, there are some classes I'd skip if they weren't so important."
"Harry!" Hermione scolded.
"You'd willingly put up with Snape if you didn't have to? If there was another teacher?"
Hermione hesitated, causing Harry to laugh at her.
"My point exactly." Harry grinned at her causing her to huff and look away.
"The other teacher could be worse." Hermione pointed out.
"As long as they can actually teach the subject and don't target me for what my father did then it could only be an improvement."
"I have to admit, you have a point." Hermione looked grumpy. "He is rather unprofessional."
"If he's that unprofessional, then how does he keep his job?" Suano asked.
"Daphne has a theory, but I think it's rather rude." Harry chuckled. "She didn't tell me because we were heading to lunch and didn't want to ruin our appetites."
"Ugh." Hermione grimaced. "Probably better that we don't know."
"I reached that very same conclusion."
The rest of the day ended up passing very enjoyably with good food and games. Harry found him warming to Suano; when she kept her temper under control she was a very pleasant person. Harry could see why Kanaka liked her so much. He wasn't sure about marrying her but she was becoming a friend.
"Thank you for a wonderful day." Suano bowed deeply to the Granger's and Harry. "I had a great time."
"You're welcome." Hermione smiled back. "It's been fun having you here."
"Um, Harry, can I still join your plans tomorrow?" Suano asked.
"I did invite you already." Harry told her. "Yes, you can."
"I would. Thank you." Suano bowed again.
"We'll be leaving about 8:30." Emily told her. "We need to go early to get parking. I can pick you up on the way."
"No, need. I will be here. Is there any particular dress?"
"Just casual." Hermione told her. "And the same for Kotetsu, unless he stays behind. You can't hide a sword in the shops."
"I will remain in our room." Kotetsu offered. "I have no other clothes and won't fit in anyway."
"Okay…" Harry seemed surprised but didn't question it.
Suano noticed "Are you bringing your tsugomomo?"
"Of course." Harry replied. "They'll be in their original forms until we get there and change; no room otherwise."
"Oh." Suano seemed surprised. "Well, I will see you tomorrow. And thank you."
With that they girl departed.
"I wasn't sure before but, she doesn't think much of Kotetsu, does she?" Hermione noted.
"No." Harry sighed. "I think I mentioned this before but Kotetsu was partnered to her older brother who was an Exorcist. He died fighting a really powerful amasogi. Kotetsu blamed himself for failing him and so does Suano. Kanaka told me it was really powerful and she barely bet it even with its serious injuries. Neither of them are dealing with the loss very well."
"Can we help?" Hermione asked.
"No." Harry gave her a tired smile. "Suano is just so angry at losing her brother that she just lashes out and Kotetsu feels he deserves it. Kanaka is helping how she can, by giving her a safe place to channel that anger but… I don't think either of them are ready to admit there is a problem."
"It's still not right." Hermione persisted.
"I know." Harry agreed. "But there is not much we can do until they are ready. I know that much from personal experience. And I might not have helped her much when we first met. We… definitely got off on the wrong foot."
"Okay." Hermione gave her own sigh. "So, how are we going to explain your girls to the others?"
"They're my friends." Harry stated. "I've known them since they were little."
"And not mentioned them before?" Hermione grinned as his comment.
"Like I was close enough to anyone at school for that to have come up. Apart from you and Ron."
"Very true." Hermione nodded. "What's really funny is that I can say the same thing."
!SB!
Logistically the shopping trip was a nightmare. There were ten in Emily's car for the trip into the city. Only the fact that six weren't actually human during the trip made it possible. Then there were the three from Hogwarts. Then Fleur and Tonks showed up; Hermione had mentioned the trip to her French friend and Tonks had somehow overheard and tagged along.
It was lucky that Fleur knew where they were to meet. She and Tonks met Luna, Susan and Daphne at the Leaky Cauldron and took the Knight's Bus into muggle London to join Harry and Hermione. There was more than a little surprise at the seven unexpected people.
"It eez nice to zee you all again." A smiling Fleur hugged Hermione, and Harry, and his six tsukumogami.
"That's a lot of girls." Tonks looked around them all. "A lot of pretty girls. How long have you known them?"
"I only met Suano over the summer but I've know the other six since they were little." Harry replied as he introduced everyone. "They are Sutābāsuto, Soyokaze, Ākufurea, Ākuraito, Āsuhāto and Nicki. These are my friends from school Luna, Susan and Daphne. And that's Don't-Call-Me-By-My-First-Name Tonks. Or just Tonks if you think it's easier."
"Watch it you." Tonks growled.
"Hey!" Harry protested. "I didn't tell them your first name is Nymphadora so sod off."
"But you just did then." Tonks growled.
"No. I was talking to you that time and I didn't actually call you that name either." Harry pointed out. "So I haven't broken your rules. Is it my fault you chose to make a deal of what I said right where they could overhead it?"
Tonks blinked. "Damn. You actually got me. You're still getting punished though; first stop: lingerie shop. Harry's paying."
"I dunno…" Harry mused. "I was told by Susan and Daphne that if I buy a girl clothes there is the expectation that I want to see them wearing them…"
"Okay!" Tonks huffed. "What happened to you? A year ago you'd be a blushing stammering mess and now you're actually winning. What happened to you?"
"Sirius died and I took a holiday." Harry's expression dropped. "It helps to have some actually life experience outside of large monsters and evil bastards."
Silence.
"Well that killed the mood nicely." Tonks admitted. "Come on; retail therapy time."
With that they got started.
To Tonks' delight they did start with a lingerie shop. She was less pleased that she couldn't even embarrass Harry by picking out the smallest or sexiest items off the racks and ask him if he thought it would look good on her.
"Am I actually going to have to model these for you to get a reaction?" Tonks pouted.
"No, it's alright." Harry waved that offer away. "Though it must be fun for you; fitting yourself to the item rather than the other way around."
"One of the few perks." Tonks admitted with a grin as she deliberately picked a bra that was obviously several cup sizes too big. "Should I try this one?"
"Uh… that's totally up to you. You don't have to do it on my behalf." Harry backed away.
"Finally! A retreat." Tonks grinned.
"No. It's Nicki, she wants me for something."
"Sure she does."
Hermione sidled over. "How far do you think she'd actually go to win that little contest?"
"I don't know." Harry was hiding his grin. "But won't it be fun finding out?"
"Sure, if you like girls."
"I think even you can agree that a girl's body can be very beautiful."
"True. There is certainly a lot of art from the last few centuries to back that up." Hermione nodded. "And Fleur from last summer. But that doesn't mean I need to see hers for myself."
"It won't bother me either way." Harry replied. "It's just fun teasing her. Though I wish I had a camera."
"You won't actually take a picture, would you?"
"No, but making her think I did on the other hand…"
"That's mean." Hermione protested but was hiding her own laughter. "Don't come crying to me if she hurts you though."
"I won't." Harry suddenly turned serious. "But remembering yours from the summer; I think it's just as nice."
Hermione turned very red at that."
Hermione returned to helping the Hogwarts trio while Harry had his hands full with his girls and a couple of hours later they were finally paying so they could leave. Tonks did try flashing him a look at her in the busty bra but Harry barely even coloured, much to Tonks disappointment.
From there they went for clothes, looking in a wide range of stores. Luna was literally bouncing around as she got to see the huge range of clothes available for women.
"This really does feel better than that other store." Luna commented in one of the designer stores. "It's… more personal."
"Yeah." Hermione nodded. "That other store is for mass market brands. They're all about cheap clothes to lots of people. Stores like this are either for a specific designer or a small group of select designers. These are people who really focus on producing high quality clothes. For them it's more personal as they design and produce their collections each year."
"It feels like it." Luna smiled. "I know these are more expensive but it really does feel like the person who made these wants them to go to people who will love them as much as they do."
Luna loved this particular designer. The designs were just a little different and it appealed to the unusual Ravenclaw. Given how happy it made her Harry was happy to treat the younger girl
They stopped for lunch to recharge then got back into it. Harry got his girls and himself a few extra winter things and even treated Suano, as a late Christmas present, and got Kotetsu a couple of things as well.
Finally they had to call it a day.
"Thank you so much." Luna hugged Harry hard and kissed his cheek. "This has been so great. Thank you for so many treats too."
"You're welcome." Harry returned the hug. "Merry Christmas."
"Merry Christmas." Luna smiled.
"This was a lot more fun than I expected." Daphne was smiling as well. "Perhaps we can do this again in the summer?"
"Just say the word." Susan agreed. "I'll be there."
"Oui." Fleur added. "Zis was fun."
"I'm ready for shopping anytime." Tonks gave a nod. "And the company's great too."
"I would love to. We can organise it back at school." Hermione was beaming.
"It was very nice to meet Harry's friends too." Luna smiled at Suano and the six tsukumogami. "I hope you will be able to join us again. I like making new friends."
"I would like that." Suano bowed.
"I think we can talk Harry into inviting us along." Āsuhāto nudged him.
"Like I could stop you." Harry snorted. "But I did actually enjoy myself, even if I did a lot of waiting around."
"You got to see us in a lot of different clothes, you've no reason to complain." Daphne pointed out primly.
That got a lot of laughter from the other girls.
"I assure you, I wasn't complaining about the view." Harry teased her. "That was the best part of today."
"Nice to know we are appreciated." Daphne tilted her nose up slightly and put on a snobbish air but the humour is her eyes was clearly visible.
"Time to go." Tonks sighed finally. "Fleur and I will make sure these three make it home safely."
"Thanks. See you at school, Daphne, Susan. Luna, will you go to the Weasley's for New Years?" Hermione asked.
"I might. We'll have to see." Luna shrugged. "If not I'll see you on the train."
"Definitely." Harry nodded firmly. "Have a great New Year's."
"You too. Bye." "See you later." "Au revoir."
The two Gryffindor's watched the group of witches head off to flag down the Knight's Bus.
"Come on, it's really cold. The car's that way." Emily got them moving and took them home.
"I like your friends." Suano commented on the trip back. "But is Luna always like that?"
"No." Hermione admitted. "She's normally a lot weirder."
"…Oh…"
"She's also incredibly intelligent and insightful." Harry added. "She is a very good friend and I'm proud to know her."
"Same here." Hermione nodded. "Even if she does talk about a huge range of creatures I'm sure she's just making up."
"There are about 50,000 undiscovered living things on the plant. Or something like that." Emily pointed out. "Who's to say her animals aren't among them."
"Really? That many?" Harry was interested.
"It's really a random guess. And these are mostly micro-organisms or things living in extreme or remote locations, like in deep trenches at the bottom of the ocean." Emily explained. "But who's to say there aren't other things."
"Or perhaps things that can only be seen in certain circumstances. Thestral's for example." Harry pointed out. "They can only be seen by people who have witnessed someone dying. But they really are very nice, even if they have a bad reputation and seem a bit undead."
"There are a huge range of creatures in Japanese folklore." Suano commented. "Spiritual or youkai."
"I think we might want to take Luna to Japan." Harry grinned. "She'd love to hear about all those beings and then she'd go hunting for them all. But it could be fun."
"What do you think she'd make of your friends? When she learns what they really are?" Hermione pondered.
"I don't know if I want that to happen or if I'd be terrified." Harry replied after thinking about it.
!SB!
Hermione put a movie on after dinner that night and Harry was enjoying it but it had been a long and very busy day. They had built bundle of pillows and blankets on the floor as there weren't enough chairs for eight and settled in to watch with hot cocoa. The snuggly warmth had them drooping about halfway through the movie and by the end they were all fast asleep; Hermione using Harry's chest as a pillow as the six tsukumogami gathered around them.
Dan and Emily looked at the impromptu slumber party.
"We should really take them to bed." Dan whispered.
"Leave them." Emily smiled. "Have you ever seen her so happy?"
"No. I just wish it wasn't a boy doing that." Dan grumped.
"She's growing up. She's an adult by Wizarding Standards and less than a year away by our own." Emily reminded him. "But I know she's safe in Harry's hands."
"Yeah; doesn't mean I like it but I know she is." Dan admitted.
"Come on. Let's get another couple of blankets so they don't get cold." Emily pulled at him. "She's safe and sound."
"Yeah." Dan nodded.
!SB!
The next couple of days were spent looking at their personal projects. Hermione's notes on the cabinet were very detailed and they began planning a pair of small boxes to make test pair. It may only take small items but it would allow them to pass letters and other things very easily.
Harry also revealed his secret plans.
"A boat?" Hermione nearly snatched them. "You're planning on building a boat?"
"Well, your idea was really good. But I don't know how to sail; it think it would take a while to learn. A motor boat would be much easier to learn to control." Harry explained.
"I agree." Hermione's fingers traced over the plans. "You've put a lot of thought into these; a library and plenty of room to do study and research. Plus the bedrooms and stuff. You could live on this boat permanently and be very comfortable. And we could go anywhere."
Harry could help but smile at Hermione's brilliant expression. "I'm glad you like it."
"I do. And I will help you build it. If we work hard we could have it finished for when we graduate." Hermione replied. "We could take a year to travel and really see the World, something you really wanted to do and I'd love to go with you. If we make the frame a little heavier then we could apply proper wards to it and make it really safe."
"If let me know how much then I'll adjust the plans and you can work out a warding scheme to apply."
"I will. This is really amazing. Thank you." Hermione leant over and gave him a firm kiss on the cheek. "So, what else did you want to do?"
"I need to modify the Nicki's weapon harness has to include a pouch for the potions I want to brew." Harry told her.
"How about a mole skin pouch?" Hermione suggested. "It would be easy to attach and they're bigger on the inside and only open for the person who put the things in there. I think we could get one at Diagon Alley. If not then perhaps one of the professors could suggest something. We don't have to tell them what it's for."
"Thanks." Harry smiled. "I really do appreciate that."
"I know." Hermione nudged him with a teasing grin.
!SB!
While they didn't manage to build the mini-cabinets they did have then designed and a quick trip ensured they had everything they needed. They would assemble and enchant them at school.
So, on New Year's Eve they bid Hermione's parents and Suano goodbye and took the Knight's Bus to Ottery St Catchpole and the Burrow.
"Harry. Hermione. Welcome." Mrs Weasley bustled them into the kitchen. "Come in. Come in."
Hermione was shown to Ginny's room while Harry got the twin's old room again; they had moved out of the Burrow and into the apartment over their shop. Harry was actually glad to have his own room; Ron snored too much and he would miss his girls cuddling around him.
"Hey Harry. Hurry up." Ron poked his head through the door. "We're going to have a snow ball fight."
"I'll be there soon." Harry told him.
Harry and Hermione did have fun during the day and Luna managed to come by to join them. A very welcome addition to Harry and Hermione. Not so much to Ron though but they shut him up; Luna had become a very good friend to them and they wouldn't let anyone put her down.
With Ron, Ginny, Luna, Harry, Hermione and the twins it proved to be quite the battle. The twins formed one team, using magic to form a sturdy barrier to hide behind as they bombarded the others. Luna and Hermione both stuck with Harry as they dodged and worked around on side to flank the twins.
Harry's training as a swordsman meant he stayed the driest of the lot and his teamwork with Hermione and Luna meant that they managed to bombard the twins, who ended up drenched and needed a hot shower and change of clothes before dinner.
Mrs Weasley cooked her usual feast for dinner and they didn't go hungry, even with the Weasley male appetites.
As the evening progressed and midnight approached Harry was reading I to pass the time when Ginny came by with a plate of biscuits.
"Want one, Harry?" Ginny offered him the plate.
"Thanks. Did you have a good Christmas?"
"I did. What about you?"
"Yeah, Christmas with Hermione was great." Harry grinned. "Really relaxing. I had a lot of fun."
"I'm glad to hear it, though it would have been nice to have you here. I've sure it would have been more fun."
"Maybe a little too much fun." Harry grinned. "No, it was a nice relaxing Christmas. Just what I wanted."
"Well, it's nice to have you here now." Ginny smiled.
There was an explosion outside and Harry was on his feet and moving before Ginny had time to do more than stare towards the noise.
The Burrow was under attack.
"Don't go out there!" Mrs Weasley ordered. "It isn't safe!"
Harry ignored her as he scanned what he could see through the door and pulled it open. With calm and deliberate movements he headed out to meet the threat.
The cloudy winter night made seeing difficult. At least until the house and surrounding grounds were lit up by a burst of fire that began curving around the house.
"Hello Harry-kins." The child-like voice of Bellatrix Lestrange sang out. "A Happy New Year Greeting from the Dark Lord."
"Bellatrix." Harry growled under his breath and he marched towards her.
"Harry…" The voice of Āsuhāto tried to caution him.
"She has to die." Harry snarled back to them. "She killed Sirius. She one of Riddle's most dangerous followers."
"Does little Harry-kins want to play?" Bellatrix giggled. "The Dark Lord wants to for himself but I suppose that I could play with you a little first. Try not to get too damaged."
"Harry! Get back here!" Arthur Weasley shouted from behind him.
"Ooh; now there's someone I can have lots of fun with." Bellatrix cheered. "Do you think I can send him to join the Longbottoms? Do you think he can scream funnily?"
"What happened to them?" Nicki's voice whispered in his ear.
"She tortured them until their minds broke. They don't even recognise their own son anymore." Harry replied quietly as he walked along the madly writhing flames of the wall around the Burrow and closed in on the mad witch.
"Then we are in agreement." Sutābāsuto stated. "She's insane."
"Yes she is."
"No wand, little Harry? Are they too dangerous for you?"
"No." Harry finally responded to her. "Not dangerous enough."
Harry drew Sutābāsuto as he reached the end of the wall of fire and trailed the blade in the last of the flames, pushing his magic hard.
"Do you really think you can stick your little thing in me?" Bellatrix crowed.
Harry didn't speak, he simply slashed the blade around at the deranged witch. She just laughed given he was well out of range. Until she realised that the flames she had cast were no longer on the ground. Instead they were attached to the sword and following the motion of the blade like a whip.
The intense flames lashed across her body, incinerating cloth, skin and bone. The witch didn't even get time to scream before she died. Harry released his magic and the flames died.
"On your left." Soyokaze warned him.
Harry spun as a burly shape charged towards him in the sudden darkness.
Harry stepped and slashed, avoiding the male's hand grabbing at him and felt his sword bite deeply of his body.
The man grunted and stumbled but remained upright.
"Bombarda!" Hermione cast and blasted the man off his feet and into the darkness.
"Lumos" Arthur and the twins hurried over. "Harry? Are you alright?"
"I'm fine." Harry had to ward off the lights from his face. "Stop pointing those lights at me and find that guy Hermione hit."
Harry silently cursed himself that he didn't have his spare wand on him and didn't want to reveal Sutābāsuto's power more than necessary. He followed the older Weasley males as they hunted for the second attacker but couldn't find anything in the dark.
"I think he got away." Arthur sighed. "Let's go alert the Order and have someone to help keep watch and we can look again when the sun's up."
Harry around into the darkness one last time. "Yeah. Okay. At least I got Lestrange."
"I can't believe you did that." One of the twins blurted.
"Yeah. Whoosh and you turned her flames back on her."
"Really cook trick that was."
"So how'd you do it?"
"It's a battle of wills, to overpower their magic with your own." Harry left out a few details. "I did the same with Riddle in the Graveyard the night he returned."
"Amazing you are."
"Yeah."
"I just killed someone. Nothing amazing about that." Harry sheathed his sword and returned to the house. He wasn't in any mood for company any longer.
Hermione and Luna both followed Harry back inside.
"Are you okay?" Hermione asked in a very worried tone.
"I'm fine." Harry replied automatically.
"That's not a real answer."
"I didn't get hurt." Harry assured her.
"Good, but that didn't actually answer my question." Hermione pointed out.
"I... I don't know." Harry finally admitted.
Hermione just hugged him firmly and Luna accosted him from the other side.
"Thanks for protecting us." Luna whispered in his ear.
A clock chimed twelve.
"It's the New Year." Harry commented dryly. "Not so happy though."
"I think we can change that." Hermione pulled him around to kiss him firmly on the lips. "Happy New Year."
Harry didn't get the chance to respond as Luna was pulling him back the other way and down so she could kiss him hard.
"Happy New Year, Harry." Luna beamed up at him.
Then, to Harry's and Hermione's surprise, Luna reached over and pulled Hermione closer to plant a firm kiss on the older brunette. "And a Happy New Year to you too, Hermione."
Hermione was too stunned to respond, a blush rapidly forming on her cheeks.