Chapter 11 Of Shopping and New Family
Christmas break came quicker than anyone had expected. But it was an extremely happy Harry and Hermione who portkeyed everyone to their destination: Alder Glen. The looks of disbelief on everyone's faces was, by now, pretty familiar. It had of course been the same look the two of them, not to mention Dan and Emma, had on their faces the first time they laid eyes on the beautiful castle.
"Holy shit!" intoned Blaise loudly. Surprisingly, it was Alessa that cuffed him.
"What, Mama? Look at it!" he said waving at the structure before them.
"I know Blaise; I was thinking the same thing. However I just thought it, I didn't say it out loud or yell it at the top of my lungs for the whole world to hear!" she admonished.
"Alessa, you'll have to show me how you did that wrist thing when you slapped him. The sound it made was very dramatic." smirked Daphne.
"Practice, my dears, years upon years of practice." she smiled demurely at her, which sent Daphne and Tracy to laughing.
Neville and Luna held hands as they serenely followed Harry and Hermione towards the enormous castle. He was looking around in wonder, taking in the gorgeous snow covered surroundings. It was a truly magical place, he thought. They were followed by their large 'family', the looks of wonder on all their faces matching that on his.
Neville was very much looking forward to spending time with the petite beauty by his side away from school. He treasured every moment with her. They'd taken their time getting to know each other properly; however, Neville was fairly certain that she was to be his forever girl. The happiest moments of his young life all took place with Luna by his side. She'd shown him to joys of walking barefoot through the tall grass at the edge of the Forbidden Forest. They'd spent hours in the Library together helping Remus, just happy to be together. The look of pride on her face shone through when she quietly watched him tend the greenhouse. Yes, he'd found 'her'.
"Neville, sweetie, look! Snorkack footprints!" she yelled as she dragged him off to the side of the path.
"Are you sure, Luna, I really don't see anything." he said, trying not to giggle.
"Yes! Here, look" she said as she took up a scoop of snow in two hands, "they're right there!"
He frowned at that, but the look of joy on Luna's face made him reconsider as he walked over to have a look. "Okay, so show me the snorkack tracks."
She smiled at him sweetly, and slowly brought the snow closer to his face. He had, too slowly he thought in retrospect, realized what was happening as Luna smooshed the snow into his face. Luna took off, laughing in delight, as he stood there in utter disbelief.
"You know, Lovegood," he shouted at her in mock seriousness a handful of snow in his grasp, "that I will have my revenge and payback will happen when you least expect it!" The laughter coming from the group of Dragons and their families echoed throughout the valley.
Augusta Longbottom watched as her grandson took off after his girlfriend with a handful of snow. The smile on her face was the first one she'd worn during the Christmas season in a very long time. House Pendragon had taken her shy and reserved boy and helped him crack the shell he had built around himself. But that was wrong; Neville had always been much like his father: outgoing, caring, loyal, and so very brave. The potions that that bloody man had fed her grandson had transformed him into a shadow of his former self. Justice was coming to Albus Dumbledore. Justice, in the form of Longbottom and Potter.
Harry was very happy to see Michael standing proudly before the large double doors that marked the entrance to the castle; the elderly elf had a large smile on his face as he watched his approaching Master and his Lady. Michael reflected on the loss of Lord James and Lady Lily, the two had treated him and all their elves like family. Lord Harry and his Lady would be no different. He missed his previous Masters deeply, but took comfort in the fact that their son had returned home.
"Lord Harry, Lady Hermione, welcome back to Alder Glen." said Michael formally with a deep bow.
"Michael, we're so glad to see you again. I hope it wasn't too much trouble preparing everything for so many people. I'm sorry about dropping that on you on such short notice."
"Not to worry, Lord Harry. Lord Black, very kindly, acquired some extra help for us. It is something you may wish to look into, My Lord, hiring a few extra elves. With you back at the castle, and your growing family staying, it might not be a bad idea to have the additional help."
"What do you think, Lady Potter?" Harry asked his wife.
"It's not a bad idea, dear. Especially since I don't think you will ever let our home have less than a dozen people in it." she said smiling at him sweetly.
He laughed at that, knowing she was correct. "Will you please see to it, Michael? Hire the staff you think we will need. I'd rather have more than enough help than not enough. I don't want to see any of you exhausting yourselves, okay?"
"Of course, Lord Harry, I will see that it gets done. You will at some point need to bond them to House Potter, as well. Will young Dobby be serving as your personal elf?"
"He will, Michael. Dobby?"
"Lord Harry sir, how can I help?" said Dobby with a deep bow.
"I take it you know Michael? He's just asked if I wanted you to be my personal elf and I wanted to know what you thought of that idea."
Dobby's eyes grew impossibly large, a tear rolling down his cheek, "It would be a dream come true, Harry Potter sir!"
Harry knelt before he who was now his personal elf. "I still want you with the Pendragons at Hogwarts, Dobby. You know that none of them would be able to handle it if you weren't there to help. You're family now Dobby."
Michael was stunned at the display before him. His Lord Harry embracing an elf! Not even Lord James and his wife had ever done that, and they'd been the kindest humans he'd ever dealt with. This Lord Potter was going to take some getting used to!
"Do you like Michael's robes, Dobby? Why don't you get some for yourself and also add the Pendragon crest to them?"
Dobby nodded emphatically, "Thank you, Lard Harry, I will do so immediately!"
"Michael, my guests." said Harry indicating the gathering of his friends and family. "Will you make sure they are comfortable and want for nothing during their stay, please?"
Michael bowed deeply to his Lord, "Of Course, Lord Harry, it will be done." He snapped his fingers, and Cindy and Andrew appeared.
"Let us see Lord Harry's guests to their rooms. My Lord, Cindy and her helpers will have dinner ready at seven, if that is alright?"
"Of course, Michael, seven sounds perfect. It will give us all plenty of time to settle in and explore a bit.
OoOOooOOoo
Severus had taken some time to go into the laboratory that he and Lily had shared. It seemed to him like a lifetime ago now that he and Lily had been down there together, experimenting and researching. The shadows of the past still haunted the man. Everywhere he looked brought back memories that he'd long since thought forgotten.
He'd bound himself to his nephew, and didn't for an instant regret that decision. Harry was turning into an impressive young man; one who in a few short weeks had not only made an impression on him, but had also astounded him with his innate kindness and nobility. The memories of the hate and loathing he'd felt towards Harry still greatly troubled him. How could he, Severus Snape, best friend to Lily Potter and Marauder, have had such hatred in him? That the potions Albus had fed him were most certainly the cause of the hate he spouted and acted on was not in doubt. What was in doubt, to him in any case was whether he had been freed from it or just buried it.
"Deep thoughts, Severus?" asked Godric as he stepped into the lab.
"Indeed, Godric, indeed. It was a very long time ago that Lily and I were here, together, trying to come up with new and better ways to produce potions in mass quantities. Healing potions, for example, are difficult to brew, especially in large quantities. We thought we'd try to come up with a way to mass produce it, without losing potency or effectiveness. I think we were close, but I guess we'll never know…"
"And why won't you ever know? You've two mastery apprentices who would do anything to help you. I'm told Daphne and Tracy are excellent potioneers. I told you that Neville had a knack for potions. And you know that offering Hermione a chance to research would make you her favorite uncle. You may be Slytherin, Sev, but to those kids upstairs you are so much more than that. Don't doubt for a second that you are a changed man!"
Severus pondered the words of the Founder. He was right, he knew, but didn't know how to rid himself of the all consuming guilt he felt. "But how…?"
"The guilt? That, unfortunately, is going to be the work of a lifetime. Lean on your brothers, lean on your nephew and his wife. You know that they'd all do anything for you. Oh, and it wouldn't hurt for you to find yourself a nice woman and settle down either!"
The Potion Master chuckled. "Sorry, Godric, I was just laughing at myself. I can't imagine any woman would care to be with the most Hated Head of Hogwarts."
"Okay, no, maybe not him! But how about falling for the Uncle of Harry Potter, or the best Potion Master in a hundred years, or the fourth Marauder, or the…"
"Alright, alright, I get it! Unlike Sirius, I can take the hint."
"Good, make sure you do something about it now." Godric added grinning.
"On a more serious note, I should probably tell you that Voldemort is stirring. My Mark is starting to ache. It's not distracting, yet, but it will become an issue. He's planning something. And I'm afraid that this plan will somehow see him gaining a body. If that were to happen, everything changes."
"Any idea on how Remus is coming on the research?"
"He's got some clues, which he's pursuing. The Library is a godsend, Godric. So much to discover, and Remus was the perfect choice for Librarian."
"Don't change the subject, Severus; we need to rid you of that mark. You will be safe, so long as you stay at Hogwarts. And the wards here at Alder Glen are growing stronger the more that Harry and Hermione are here, I'm certain that you and Sirius would be safe here as well in a month or two. But we need to sever that connection. When Harry kills that abomination, I would hate for you to still be wearing that Mark."
"You've a lot of faith in my nephew, don't you?"
"I do, he's a most extraordinary young man. And the former Miss Granger is his perfect match."
"They are kind of perfect together, aren't they? Maybe you're right; I guess I do need to find myself a little happiness. It I could find someone to make me even half as happy as Harry and Hermione are, I would count myself a lucky man,"
"He's coming back, Godric. I can feel it. And it's not just the Mark. There is a fog rolling in, one that I'm afraid will bring with it death and destruction." he added gravely.
"And so we will be ready, that's all we can do. We take those kids up there and mold them into the best warriors and wizards they can be. I've told them many times the road ahead would be difficult; we train them and we teach them. And when the time comes, we let them loose. And may Merlin bless any who stand in their way!"
OoOOooOOoo
Harry had very generously planned a shopping trip for all the girls to muggle London to do some ball gown shopping that weekend. Had it been anyone other than her sisters, Hermione would have been a very jealous witch, as the girls were hugging and kissing him incessantly. As it was, all she could do was laugh at the bewildered face of her husband.
The girls had left the boys behind, opting to go as a group. Alessa, Bronwyn, Deirdre, and Emma had decided to tag along as well. Emma had suggested Harrods, to which Tracy and Daphne agreed with wholeheartedly. They'd been dying to go there since October.
Luna was just happy to tag along. She was sure she'd find something suitable when they got there. Just having Neville escort her to the Ball was enough to see her walking on air. He'd been the perfect boyfriend, although she was a little scared at the 'payback' he had promised after the snow eating incident. But it wouldn't matter; the kind boy she was falling in love with would never do anything to make her feel ridiculed. And she would take said payback gracefully. But as she thought about it more, the more she wanted to be as pretty and beautiful as she could be for him. She thought that that at least should cut her some slack once the revenge was set in motion.
The gaggle of girls arrived at the store and lost themselves in the fashion section, four sniggering mothers following closely behind. The girls spent hours searching for the perfect dress. Luna found hers first, a grey and silver ensemble that made her pale silver hair and grey eyes stand out.
"Luna, Neville is going to lose his mind when he sees you in this!" squeaked Hermione.
"Good! Maybe he'll not remember that he's supposed to prank me." she added with a smirk.
"That's a good point. Now, go pick out some shoes, and once we're all done here we'll head to the jewelry section and pick something out that'll go perfectly with that dress!"
"Luna dear, you look gorgeous!" said Emma breathlessly.
"Thank you, Emma, as long as Neville thinks so I'll be happy!"
"Yeah, don't think you'll have to worry about that too much!" she added.
Tracy and Daphne had dragged Luna along with them to the shoe section, as Hermione was still trying to find something that suited her. And it was just as she was losing all hope of finding something suitable that she found something that was perfect. The color was a stunning lavender blue. The dress itself was in an off the shoulder princess style ball gown that fell all the way to the floor.
"It's a good thing that Harry is an honorable lad, and that you're already married to him, as I'd be afraid you would never make it out of the bedroom!" said Emma.
"Mother!" blushed Hermione.
"What? I'm just teasing Hermione, no need to get all flustered."
"It's just that…?"
"You want to, and he probably wants to, you just don't know what to do about it?" asked the concerned mother.
"Something like that, I guess. I know that we are both way too young to be doing anything of the sort, but the longing is there. I am only ever going to be with one man , and it really doesn't help when he's walking around with his shirt off!"
Emma giggled, remembering fondly the times Dan had come back all sweaty from rugby practice and ripped his shirt off as he walked by the washer. Dan, she thought, was going to be getting lucky tonight!
"The best advice I can give you, darling, is to let it happens when it happens. The time will come. It might be tonight, it might be in two years. You will both know when the other is ready, okay?"
"Thanks, Mom, I do understand. I guess it's just anxiety. I've never considered myself beautiful or anything like that, and am just worried that Harry…"
"Oh, sweet child, you've just described the plight of millions of women across the globe. You want the answer to how Harry sees you? Just watch him watch you. You'll see it in his eyes. Luna teases him incessantly about him staring at you, you know? Besides, you two share a brain now; can't you just take a peak?"
"I could, but I won't. It's hard to describe, I get flashes of memories from him. But they're incomplete, almost as if he's holding back, not wanting to alarm me or upset me with what I see. Wait, he stares at me?"
"All. The. Time. Just because you haven't caught him at it doesn't mean he doesn't."
Hermione embraced her mother fiercely. "Thanks, Mom, you always know what to say. I hope I'm as good with my daughters as you are with me!" Hermione laughed at the frightened look her mother was now wearing.
The morning of shopping had gone fantastically. The girls were all excited with their purchases, and would be thanking Harry, profusely, as soon as they had the chance. With the help of Dobby, all their shopping had been shrunk and popped away to the Glen.
"What do you think, ladies, lunch at the Cauldron? Or should we just head back to Harry's?" asked Tracy of her friends.
"You know my answer to that question," said Hermione, "but I will gladly follow where you lead."
"I'm with Hermione, you two are like slave drivers. I don't think I could walk another inch!" added Luna.
Daphne curtsied elegantly, "I do what I can. Thanks to Harry's generous gift, we girls are going to be the belles of the ball. It's a shame Ginny didn't come along, I think she would've had fun."
"I bought her a dress, Daph. Her mom is a very good with a wand when it comes to adjusting clothing. She'll have her looking spectacular as well. It's a good thing that Seamus invited her, she wouldn't have been able to go if he hadn't."
"Seamus Finnegan? That's who she's going with?" asked Tracy.
"Oh, he's not that bad. A bit of a braggart, but he's friends with our twins, they'll make sure she's treated respectfully." said Hermione.
"He better, as it's not only George and Fred he'll have to worry about! Harry would probably do the magical hurricane thing if he did anything inappropriate!" laughed Daphne.
"That would be something to see, huh?" commented Luna.
Alessa was following along distractedly, happy to have some girl time. She'd left the young ones, Clara and Elena, in the tender care of Cindy and Andrew. The elves doted on the girls, and the girls loved their babysitters. She was growing closer to the other mother's, and was extremely happy about that. She'd not had a friend in a very long time, and the longer she was away from Enzo, the happier she was. Divorce might not be legal in the magical world, but that would not stop her from exploring her legal options. She'd not have her children or herself chained to that man any longer.
She was amazed at the family that Blaise had around him. The Dragon's had taken in the sullen boy, and allowed him to release the person he'd been all along. She'd have to do something about his foul mouth, though!
Unexpectedly, the hairs on the back of her neck rose in cold fear. She looked around the street, trying to determine the origin of her alarm.
"What is it Alessa?" asked a concerned Bronwyn. "You look like you've seen a ghost!"
"Everything alright there ladies" said Deirdre as she wandered over.
"Something is wrong, I can't explain it, it's just something I feel."
Deirdre looked toward her new friend, taking in the woman's obvious dread, and nodded her head.
"We're going back to the Glen, ladies! Now!" she said in an iron voice.
"There!" squeaked Alessa, pointing to a group of dark complexioned men that were approaching the girls. "They work for my husband!"
'HARRY!' screamed Hermione in her mind.
OoOOooOOoo
The boys had all gone to Diagon Ally to pick their robes for the ball. They'd all marched to Madam Malkin's to be fitted, stopping along the way to greet the assorted classmates that they bumped into. It was much more pleasant, they all thought, to shop as a bunch of guys. They knew what they wanted, most of them having been given explicit instructions by their girlfriends, and ordered the robes without much fuss.
Madam Malkin was beside herself with joy. She'd be outfitting House Pendragon! She would make sure she provided nothing but the best, as having Lord Potter as a valued customer would do wonders for her business.
"Do you wish your House Pendragon or House Potter emblems on your robes, Lord Harry?"
"What would be your opinion, Madam?"
"Well, as it is a school sponsored event, I tend to think that the Pendragon emblem would be more suited to the occasion."
"I agree, let's do it that way. Hermione's dress is a pale blue, if that helps. She asked me to mention that to you. Oh, and Luna says she has a silver and grey dress, she's Neville's date."
"Smart woman, your Miss Granger, I'll make sure to take that into account as I do you and Neville's robes."
"Thank you Madam Malkin. Oh, and I hope it's alright if I come back sometime soon? Lord Black and Gryffindor both wish me to be outfitted properly for when I join the Wizengamot next fall. It seems that I look like a vagrant, which is apparently not considered respectable attire!"
She laughed at his words, "They are wise men, Lord Harry, and you'd do well to follow their suggestions. Let me know when you have the time, I'll make sure that you look the part! Have Sirius accompany you, once he's been cleared. He was always a rogue, but has impeccable taste in clothing!"
An hour later the robes had been finished and the boys went about trying them on. They were all shocked at the fine tailoring; none of them had worn robes this fine!
"Looking good there, Nev!" said Blaise as he wandered over to the tall boy. "Luna is going to love going to the dance with you, you know? Once she's recovered from how dazzling you look, that is!"
"I hope so. I'm still not sure I've got the dancing thing down. Sirius was very helpful, what with the extra classes and all; I just wish I had a bit more time."
"You'll be fine. You two are going to have the time of your lives and are going to dance the night away."
"Who're you taking?"
"No one, Daphne and Tracy didn't accept any invitations, so I didn't extend any. We've decided to go as a trio, and I'm sure you, Harry, or the twins won't mind if I ask your girls for a dance. I get to dance with a lot of pretty girls, and I get to hang out with my brothers and sisters, what more could I possibly ask for?"
Neville laughed, thinking that was a wonderful idea. As Harry walked over, Neville sized up his god-brother. Harry had changed immensely in the months since joining Pendragon. Sure, he was still a short skinny kid, but he didn't carry himself like that any longer. His demeanor, once withdrawn and shy, had also disappeared. What was left behind was a strong and determined young man. He was proud to be considered his friend, and prouder still to be his brother.
Harry was laughing softly to himself as he joined Blaise and Neville, "If you get a chance, go check out George and Fred, they're trying to get Madam Malkin to dance with them. It's really not going so well for them.
"Are we all set to go? I imagine the ladies are probably getting close to being done shopping. It's been what, six hours? How anyone can shop for that long is something I will never understand." said Blaise.
"The mysteries of the fairer sex are not to be understood Blaise, only accepted. It's not for us to reason why, after all!"
"Oh, Harry, can I please be there when you try to explain that to Hermione? I think I'd like to see her chase you around the Glen with a pillow, as I missed the last time she did that!" added Neville.
"Silence, Longbottom, the Lady Potter would do no such thing!" he said. "She'd wait until I was cornered in our bedroom before she attacked me."
Neville and Blaise joined in Harry's laughter. This attracted the twins from their attempts at getting Madam Malkin to dance with them. "What's a so funny lad's?"
"Nothing really, Harry here was just trying to explain to us why the girls have been shopping for the last six hours. He's failing spectacularly!" chuckled Blaise.
"Listen to wisdom, Brother Potter, as the Weasleys try to educate you, okay?"
"Why are the ladies shopping?" asked George.
"They're looking for ball gowns." answered Neville.
George and Fred pinched their noses dramatically. "No…that's what they are shopping for? I asked WHY they are shopping."
Harry, Neville, and Blaise huddled together, whispering answers and nodding heads.
"To look pretty for the ball!" answered Harry seriously.
"Finally, a smart one! Ok, so now we know why they are shopping. Next question: who are they shopping for?"
Once more the three huddled together, discussing silently the answer.
"For themselves!" answered Blaise proudly.
"Oh, for Merlin's sake you three! They're shopping for you! They, all of them, have spent the last six hours looking for the perfect thing to wear. They will spend endless amount of times primping their hair and applying makeup. They are going to be wearing painful shoes, and heavy gowns, and all of this is to please the boys in their lives. You three, well, Harry and Neville mainly will be the recipients of all this work!" said Fred exasperatedly.
"Look, boys, Alicia and Angelina spent an hour explaining to us exactly what goes into making them look the way they do. It's a lot of hard, painstaking, meticulous work.
"Curling their hair…"
"Straightening their hair…"
"Applying the makeup…"
"Removing the makeup…"
"Shaving the legs…"
"Okay, enough. Too much information! Please, please stop" cried Blaise.
Fred and George smiled at them, "Now do you understand? They are doing all of this for you two."
Harry and Neville nodded their heads vigorously, both of them swearing that they were going to be the best dates ever.
"C'mon, let go to Fortescue's, I'm in the mood for a treat. Hard work, shopping!" smiled Fred. It was a happy bunch that made their way across Diagon Alley, stopping every once in a while to window shop or greet some of their schoolmates that were also shopping.
Blaise stopped suddenly, taking in his surroundings. He felt…he didn't quite know. Dread? That Zabini sixth sense was blaring loudly, and he'd learned to listen to it.
"What is it Blaise?" asked Neville.
"Something is off. Harry, are the ladies okay?" he asked intently.
Harry concentrated for a moment, extending his bond to his wife. He'd muted it a bit, wanting Hermione to enjoy her time with her friends and mothers. But he turned it on full force, hoping he wouldn't frighten her.
"We've got to go, now! You father didn't listen to my warning, Blaise. He's sent men to get your mother. Concentrate guys, let's go to the girls." commanded Harry. He hoped that the rings worked outside Hogwarts, but concentrated on his bond to Hermione to guide him.
It was a grim faced five that popped away from the alley.
OoOOooOOoo
"Harry!" breathed Hermione as her husband took her in his arms.
"Where?" he asked as he scanned the now abandoned street.
"They were over there, walking this way, I think they apparated away once they saw you guys arrive!"
"Dobby, Michael, Andrew!"
"Lord Harry? How may we assist?" asked Michael.
"Please take everyone back to the Glen please. Hermione, make sure everyone is safe. Blaise and I have something to take care of!"
"There is no way in hell I'm letting you two go by yourselves!" screamed Hermione.
"They won't be alone, Hermione." said Neville as he and the twins flanked Harry and Blaise.
"Get back to the Glen, 'Mione; call the Marauders and Godric, have them meet us at the Ministry. We'll floo from there!"
"Harry, this is reckless! You've no idea what you'd be walking in to!"
"Blaise's father just sent a team of what…assassins, kidnappers…what do you expect us to do? We have to deal with this now, or he won't leave them alone!"
'We have to, love. They won't stop coming after Blaise, or Alessa, or Elena, or Clara. If anything happened to them…' he thought to his wife.
'You all come back to me in one piece, you hear?' she responded, giving a quick peck before grabbing Dobby's hand and disappearing.
OoOOooOOoo
Godric and the Marauders arrived at the Ministry in short order. Sirius was incognito, as it were, having borrowed Harry's cloak. "What's the plan Harry?" asked Godric.
"We go, we kick ass, we make it home for dinner!" answered Harry seriously.
Fred and George grinned maniacally. Neville had an unyielding look on his face. And Blaise had a look of determination.
"Oh dear Merlin, you gentleman are going to be the death of me! Fine, unfortunately, this needs to be done. You let the four of us lead the assault. You lot follow behind us."
The five nodded in agreement, and they all stepped through the floo to Sanremo.
They had all hurried to the Zabini Villa, hoping that their quick response would be unthinkable to those that had plotted against one of their own.
Godric stepped up to the wards, and readied himself to bring them down. "Gentlemen, if you'd lend me of your magic please? The wards have been strengthened since we were last here."
The Marauders placed their wands against Godric's and gently let their magic flow out. Godric took the offered magic and weaved it with his own, letting the strengthened spell shatter the wards.
Six huge Clan members ran towards them, aware that their wards had been breached. With wands out, they started firing spells at the Dragons. Harry and the boys cast protection shields about themselves, extending them to include the Marauders, who'd begun to retaliate and cast spells back at the bodyguards.
The four adults made quick work out of the bunch, taking their wands away before snapping them. A quick Incarcerous and the men were out of the fight. Blaise calmly walked over to them and very deliberately stunned them all.
"What? Like they didn't deserve it?" he asked as everyone stared at him.
With a bit more caution, the group headed up to the villa. "Severus, Remus, anti-apparition and portkey please. If we're going to end this, let's end this now!" said Godric.
"Lead the way, Blaise, where would you father be?" asked Sirius.
"More than likely he is in his study, follow me."
They followed Blaise as he quietly led them through the large villa. They stunned a few more of the guards on the way, but were relatively unbothered. What they didn't know was that most of the guards had fled, having caught the look of cold determination on the faces of their attackers. The vaunted ruthlessness of the Zabini soldiers had been demonstrated to be all bravado. The wards falling, a second time in as many days should have been impossible, and yet they fell in minutes.
"Up ahead," pointed Blaise, "the office it through those doors."
Sirius stepped up and pointed his wand at the door. "Bombarda Maxima!" he yelled as he whipped his wand at the doors. He looked over at Harry with a wide grin, "Hermione taught me that one, you know?"
Harry rolled his eyes at his godfather, before he and Blaise took the lead and walked into the office. Enzo Zabini looked like a defeated man. Gone was the blustering man that had attacked his own son. Gone was the petty bully. All that was left in this place was the sack of shit that was unfortunately his father.
"We told you we'd be back if you attempted anything stupid, didn't we?" asked Harry in a cold voice.
"Ooooh, look, he's gonna do the hurricane! I love the hurricane!" said Neville quietly as he was looking at Harry.
"What hurricane?" asked Remus.
The twins look at him and winked, "Just watch, Remus, you're going to love this!"
Blaise glanced toward Harry before deciding to step back a bit. He was of the mind that he'd rather be spectator than a participant in anything involving Harry and his magic whirlwind!
"You will divorce your wife this instant. You will then leave your ex-family the hell alone. Or so help me, I will return and plant this in your chest!" said Harry as he reached into his robes and pulled out the dagger that Enzo had stabbed Blaise with. With more strength than he thought he had, no doubt aided by his magic, he buried the dagger up to the hilt in the solid looking desk.
"I can't!" said a cowering and white-faced Enzo.
"Harry?" asked Severus gently.
"Uncle Sev?"
"There is no divorce in the magical world. It's something he's not able to do."
Harry cast a glance at his godfather and Godric. Sirius looked at Godric and asked, "Casting out?"
"It's the only thing I can think of as well." he responded.
"Guys, want to clue me in?" asked Harry exasperatedly.
Godric approached the Zabini patriarch, "You will cast out your wife, son, and daughters. You will shun them. I imagine it will help you save a little face in the eyes of your clan, as your honor would be 'satisfied'." he spat.
Some of the color returned to Enzo's face as he deliberated. "I cast them out, leave them alone, and you will let me live?"
"That will do for now Mr. Zabini."
"Blaise Zabini, Elena Zabini, Clara Zabini, Alessa Zabini, as Head of House Zabini I expel you from hearth and home. You are now nameless and disowned!" he grinned evilly at his former son as he intoned the formal words.
Blaise was momentarily stunned as the family magic was withdrawn from him. He staggered a bit at the loss of knowledge his family had passed down for generations. It was bittersweet, this moment. He had yearned for this to happen, to be able to cut his father from his life. To be able to protect his Mama and his sisters from the dreaded man; and it had finally happened.
"Incarcerous! Stupefy!" yelled the ex-Zabini, lashing out with his wand.
"Feel better now?" Harry asked.
"Oh hell yeah; let's get to Alder Glen, I want to tell my mother the good news!"
OoOOooOOoo
Hermione was pacing back and forth in front of the massive fireplace that took up most of one wall of the Potter study. She'd been driving everyone nuts, even her mother had been incapable of calming her down. The rest of the ladies, along with Dan, Adrian, Augusta, and Tonks were spread out among the comfortable furniture, waiting for any news about their family.
She stopped in mid-stride, and closed her eyes in concentration. She let out a large sigh of relief before running up to her mother and letting the tears come. "They're all fine, and are on their way back right now."
Cheers broke the silence that had taken over the castle, as its Lord and his brothers and uncles were returning safely.
"Cindy?" called out Hermione.
"Lady Potter?" said the small elf. Hermione frowned a bit at that, which Cindy caught. "Forgive me, Lady Hermione?"
"The boys are on their way back, can we have dinner ready in an hour or so?"
"Of course, My Lady; I will sees to it!" and she popped away.
Tracy and Daphne stood and ran to Hermione, taking her up in a hug. Hermione held out an arm to Luna, who ran to join the girls. "They're all okay." Hermione breathed.
"Told you, sis, Godric would never let any of them get hurt. And Harry was well and truly pissed! I don't think even Voldemort would stand up to him if Harry looked at him like that." The girls laughed at Luna's statement.
"They'll be here in a few minutes, they just arrived at the Ministry." said Hermione.
"Who needs a clunky cell phone when you've got Potterphone?" said Dan winking at Emma.
"We aren't really going to call it Potterphone, are we Dan?" she asked.
"Well, I can't think of anything better. Tonks?" he said as he turned his head to the pink haired girl.
Tonks eyes bugged out at the question before she started laughing. "Oh, you've got to tell that one to Sirius! He'll make sure they are teased incessantly about it."
The nine returned a few moments later, looking none the worse for wear. Hermione tackled Harry as soon as he stepped from the floo. He looked up at the dark brown eyes from his position on the floor, "So…you missed me?" he said smiling.
"Prat!" she said as she cuffed him.
Dan and Emma walked over, offering each a hand as they helped the couple stand. Emma and Dan took Harry in a rough embrace. "You scared us son, don't do that again; please, for our sanity!" whispered Emma into Harry's ear.
Harry reared back, a bit surprised by Emma naming him son. "Son?" he breathed.
Emma raised an eyebrow at him before hugging him harder. "Yes, you are now my son! You are married to my daughter, and as such, I claim the right to call you son. Also, you may call me Mom"
"She's right, son. Could you do me a favor though just call me Dan. I'm just now wrapping my head around my fifteen year old daughter being married. You calling me Dad would freak me out!"
The Potters and Grangers reconnected through the hug they all shared. It was a dream comes true for Harry. The woman he loved was by his side, and he was being held by two he'd come to think of as surrogate parents. He broker from the hug, and grabbing Hermione's hand walked over to the former Zabini's.
"Blaise has explained to you what has happened?" he asked.
"Yes, Harry, he has. I wish it hadn't come to that, but I understand the need. Having my children safe means more to me than any family name; as long as we're together, we'll be more than fine."
"Alessa No-Name, I wish to induct you into House Potter! Do you accept?" Harry stated formally.
"Harry, what are you doing?" asked Blaise as he stood.
"Not talking to you Blaise, so shut it!" he told him abruptly.
'You sure about this Harry; I've no problem with it, mind you, I'm just making sure that you thought it through.' thought Hermione. Harry looked to her and winked.
"Are you certain of this course of action, Lord Potter?" asked Alessa.
"I am, Alessa. There are certain stipulations, though. Firstly, you and the girls will live here at the Glen. Secondly, when the girls come of age to attend Hogwarts, all their costs will be met by House Potter. I've already taken care of Blaise's tuition for the remaining years we have left. And thirdly, a vault has been opened in the name of Alessa Potter at Gringotts. All it requires is for you to visit it so that it may be activated."
In the end it was an easy decision. Her children would be protected, and they would have a name. "I accept Lord Potter. I and my children would join your family gladly and with eternal gratitude."
Harry reached out his right hand, and gently placed his Head of House ring on Alessa's forehead. "I, Lord Harry James Potter accept Alessa No-Name into House Potter!" The Potter family magic extended from his ring and enveloped the now Lady Alessa Potter. The halo slowly spread to Blaise and the girls, blanketing each of them in a soft golden halo.
"Blaise Potter, Elena Potter, Clara Potter, welcome to your new Family!" The girls responded first, leaping from the couch they were sitting on and running at Harry to catch him in an embrace. "Are we your sisters now too, Harry?" asked Clara shyly.
"Yes Clara, you two are now my littlest sisters, I hope that's okay?" he asked as he drew them into a deeper hug.
Blaise stood slowly and faced the man who was now really his brother. He, for once, was struggling to find the words. "Holy shit, Harry, what the hell?"
Harry calmly released the girls and walked over to Blaise, and cuffed them in the back of the head! "Really brother?" he asked with a smirk.
Blaise was massaging his head, but the smile that graced his features was priceless. "Thank you." he said, and hugged Harry strongly.
"For Family!" yelled Sirius from the back of the room.
"For Family!" yelled back the entire room.
OoOOooOOoo
Remus stood atop one of the towers, gazing in wonder at world around him. The frigid air really didn't bother him that much, his werewolf physiology made his body run a bit hotter than regular people, so he rarely ever felt cold. He had loved coming up here, always had. Lily had even taken to calling him 'stargazer' on occasions.
His life had changed so much in just a few short months. He'd gone from destitute and jobless to gainfully employed and living in a castle; two castles he amended!
Having Harry back in his life meant the world to him. Because of his 'furry little problem', he'd been unable to claim custody of his nephew legally. That blasted man Dumbledore had compelled and potioned him to give up his quest to even be near Harry, and in the process had almost broken gentle man.
One of the happiest moments of his life had been when he'd woken up on the Express and seen Lily's eyes staring back at him. They held the same sense of curiosity and wonder that he'd seen so many times before from Harry's mother. But they also held a deep sadness, one that everyone in the Glen was trying very hard to wash away.
"Remus, you up here?" asked the voice of Tonks as she stepped out onto tower.
"Nym, it's freezing up here, you should go back inside." admonished Remus.
Tonks held his gaze for a long moment before coming to a decision. She slowly walked up to him and buried her head in his shoulder, cuddling into him with a sigh. She adored the feel of him, so hot and comforting.
"As long as I'm like this, I don't think I care how cold it is." she whispered to him.
"Nym, we've talked about this…"
"No! You've talked about this; I've listened patiently trying to understand your need to deprive yourself of some happiness. Sirius has found some. Harry has definitely found some. All I ask is that you give us a chance, that's all. I will make you happier than you've ever been!"
"It is my fondest wish, you know, to let myself dive headlong into a relationship with you."
"So let yourself dive! I'm right here to catch you." she said looking straight into his eyes. Her hair had changed from its usual pink to a mousy dark brown.
He couldn't help himself. The young and beautiful witch had captured his heart weeks ago. And so he did the only thing he could think of. He lowered his head and captured her lips in what was their first kiss.
It took her a second to realize what was going on, but when she did, she grabbed the back of his head and held on for dear life. She had gotten her wolf, and she would never let go!
OoOOooOOoo
My Son,
I hate that you may someday be reading this letter. But your Mom and I decided that it would be for the best though, to put a few thoughts down on paper, to say some of the things we wish we could have been there to say to you ourselves.
First off; find love. Find that witch that makes your heart beat faster. Find the girl that make you want to be a better man. Find the girl who is independent and her own person, and yet still needs you. She will be the one who you look to when you need strength. She will be the one who holds her arms out to you when you need comfort. She will be the one who stands right next to you when the difficulties of life come knocking on your door. You find her, Harry, and when you do…don't ever let go!
Secondly; find Friends. And I mean FRIENDS, Harry! The kind of friend's who you would, without a second thought give your all for, even your life. Friends who themselves would give up everything to see you happy. In my life, I had four friends just like that. Your Mother, obviously, who is not only my truest love but also the best friend any person could ever hope to find. Your godfather, Sirius Black, the bravest and most loyal friend anyone could ask for. Your Uncle, Severus Snape, who is the only man I ever knew who could come out of the terror that was his childhood and still laugh and love. And of course your Uncle Remus, who despite being hated for what he was, never lost sight of who he was; a kind, gentle, and intelligent man.
Our lives, Harry, have been fraught with danger for some time now. We've done all we can to protect that which is most precious to us: you. You Mother and I have seen to it that you're well taken care of by placing you with a family that will love you almost as much as we do. The Longbottoms are dear friends, and as close to family as one can be without sharing a name or blood.
Alice Longbottom, your godmother, will make sure that you learn what it means to be a Potter. One day you will come of age, my son, and when you do it will be up to you to once again see that the Potter name means something in this world. Make your mark on this world, and leave it a far better place than you found it. Your children, your friends, and your family deserve no less.
Remember who you are son. You are a Potter.
You are Harry James Potter.
You are my son.
I love you.
Lord James Charles Potter.
P.S. Well that was bit serious, huh? Yes, we're gone, but don't let that stop you from having some fun in your life. Prank those who deserve it! Make sure you check out a few of the broom closets at Hogwarts with your girl; trust me, you'll love it! And remember: Quidditch is life, life is Quidditch. If you ever go on to play professionally, and you aren't playing for Puddlemere United, I will come back and haunt you!
My Dearest Son,
Nothing in my life ever prepared me to write a letter like this. It is the hardest thing I've ever had to contemplate, not being there for you. It seems that life has somehow conspired to take your father and me away from you. I can't express how heartbreakingly sad I am that I will not see you grow into the fine man I know you will become. Please, don't mourn forever for us. We gave our lives so that you could live yours.
You will study hard; you are after all my son. You don't have to be the top student at school, I will settle for second best… just this once.
When you finally discover girls, be a gentleman. It took me years to train your father. I'll not have my son being a lout! And when you are ready to find love, look to those closest to you. Chances are that the one who will fill your heart with joy is already standing next to you.
As your father has said, you are a Potter. Discover what that means. Don't be pressured into doing things you don't want to. Never let anyone tell you what is right. Stand up for those that need it; be a champion to the downtrodden and the forgotten. Change the world, Harry!
And finally, my messy haired boy, know that I never loved anyone more than I loved you.
Lily Potter
Forever your Mom.
P.S. To the woman who captures my son's heart, give him all the love and affection that I was unable to provide. It is a Potter trait for them to fall in love with strong and intelligent women. Be strong for him; give him the guidance he will need as you both go through life together.
OoOOooOOoo
Hermione held on tightly, letting Harry expel the grief that had been built up over his lifetime. His sobs of anguish overpowered him. His magic let loose in a surge of power, was whipping about them, rocking the furniture and shaking the room.
'I love you Harry, I always will. I am here for you always.'
And he held her tighter, unable to express in words the comfort and love he felt in his wife's arms. He held on to his soul-mate, falling deeper into her soothing embrace.
And he let go, ever so slowly, of the grief that he had been suppressing for far too many years.
'Your parents made the ultimate sacrifice; they gave up their lives to protect their son. You, Harry, they willingly gave up their future to secure yours.'
And in a moment of clarity he realized that they had indeed given everything they had, to see their only son survive. They had readily surrendered themselves to the evil so that he, Harry James Potter, could have the life they wanted for him.
'I have to live so that I can be worthy of their sacrifice.'
'No Harry, you have to live so you can be with me. You have to live so we can watch our children grow. You have to live so we can live the life that they were denied.'
'My life, dear Lady, is yours.'
'You bet your ass it is!' she said as she kissed him tenderly.
It was only then that they heard the banging on the door. Looking questioningly at Harry, Hermione quickly threw on her robe and walked over to their bedroom door. She was very surprised to see Dobby there, arms raised, as he protected the door of his Lord and Lady. Protecting, it seemed, from every person in the Glen.
She put a hand on his small shoulders, "What's going on here, Dobby?"
"Family tries to disturb Lord Harry and Lady Hermione. I told them youse okay, they not believe Dobby!"
"Hermione, could you please call off your attack elf! We just wanted to make sure you two were okay." yelled Sirius at Hermione.
Dobby growled threateningly at Sirius, who backed up a step or two.
"Why wouldn't we be okay?"
"Well, let's see, there were strange lights all about the castle. Also, the bloody castle was shaking like a leaf in a windstorm!" Sirius answered sarcastically.
"We're alright, Sirius. Everyone, we are both okay." said Harry as he stepped through the bedroom door.
"See, I told you guys it was nothing! The two of them were probably just in there getting it on…ow! Stop hitting me!" Blaise yelled at the two smirking girls behind him.
Harry and Hermione blushed a deep red. "What we were doing in our bedroom is none of your business!" huffed Hermione.
"Come on everyone, back to bed. Show's over. We'll see you in the morning, okay? Ladies, the ball is tomorrow night, and I won't have you accusing me of disturbing your beauty sleep." said a smirking Harry.
OoOOooOOoo
"We've got him! We've got him, and there's nothing he'll be able to do to wriggle out of it." said the auburn haired woman as she waved the parchment in front of Sirius.
"Ami? What are you saying? We can finally be rid of that evil bastard?"
"Dumbledore had the will sealed, illegally I might add, using his influence as Chief Warlock. He then placed Harry, also illegally, with a muggle family that treated…" she sighed, "he took him away from you, away from the Longbottoms, the Greengrasses, and even from me! He deliberately and maliciously abducted a child, a Peer of the Realm I might add, and saw him put with a family that mistreated him in the foulest way imaginable."
"Can we prove all this, the guy is a slippery bastard after all?" asked Sirius.
"Yes, we can! One small, well rather large, problem: the tournament."
"What's the tournament have to do with anything?" asked an exasperated Sirius.
"As the host, director, and task planner of the tournament, Dumbledore is also tied to the magical contract that binds the champions. He could declare that Harry has broken the rules or cheated, and in so doing, take away Harry's magic. We have to wait until the tournament is over."
Sirius was raging. He wanted that evil man away from his godson. Nothing but tragedy had struck anyone that stood in the man's way, and no way was he going to let him add on to Harry's misfortunes. He paced angrily in front of the bed he shared with his fiancée, images of Harry's broken body coming at him from all sides. He'd not allow that to happen! "He planned it that way, didn't he? It seems he's been a step ahead of us for a long time."
"That's not what scares me, Siri, what scares me is what the next tasks will involve. C'mon, facing dragons? It was immensely lucky that no one got killed or seriously injured. Harry was lucky. There was no way for Dumbledore to know that he'd be in Pendragon, or that he'd be able to talk to dragons."
Sirius wilted at her words, wanting more than anything to be able to get his godson out of the infernal tournament.
"We should talk to Godric in the morning. I think he should install Augusta as co-headmaster rather than headmaster. Dumbledore will think he still has some form of control over the school, and will still be able to take care of the tournament believing he can do as he wishes. But Godric can give Augusta control of the schools wards and elves."
He raised his head at that, thinking it a brilliant idea. "You're brilliant, you know that?" he smiled at her.
"Yes, yes I know. No, come to bed. I have need of you Lord Black!" she said huskily.
"Absolutely brilliant!"
OoOOooOOoo
Hermione woke to find she was alone on the large bed she shared with Harry, awakened by his absence. She stretched languidly, wishing he was still there. The events of the night before had drained them both, physically and mentally. Sleep had come hesitantly, but they'd both finally been able to nod off.
She reached through her bond, 'Sweetie, where are you?'
'Down at breakfast. You looked so beautiful and peaceful I didn't have the heart to wake you.'
'I was peaceful because you were here with me. Now you're not here, and I'm no longer peaceful!'
She felt him snicker through the bond. 'Get showered, Lady Potter. We've a long day ahead of is, and I don't want you to fall asleep in the middle of a dance! Oh, and I left you a gift.'
'A gift?'
''Mione, it's Christmas. Of course I got you a gift.'
She got out of bed excitedly, scanning the room and finding the small gift-wrapped box on her nightstand. She tore the paper off, her eyes going wide. A small wooden box, with the intricately embossed Potter coat of arms on the top; she opened the box slowly and was awe struck at the beautiful charm bracelet contained therein.
She was a little curious though, as there were no charms on the bracelet itself. She admired the workmanship of the fine piece. Platinum strands weaved in elaborate knots, the design reminiscent of early Celtic artwork. She placed it lovingly on her wrist and fastened the clasp. 'It's beautiful, Harry!'
'Not as beautiful as you, love. Keep looking, you still need to find the charms!'
She frowned a bit at that, not sure she was ready for a treasure hunt this early in the morning. She saw nothing obvious in their room, so decided to head to the shower. She walked into the bathroom, and noticed a rather large stuffed animal waiting for her perched on the sink. It was a troll, complete with a large club and a wand dangling from its nose! She smiled widely, and reached for the toy, grabbing it up and hugging it to her chest. She felt a small surge of magic and the troll slowly shrunk before disappearing altogether. The faint glow on her bracelet startled her, but when she saw the troll dangling from her wrist, she laughed. 'Expect a lot of kisses today!' she thought to her husband.
'I will suffer through them if I must!' he replied.
She was just getting out of the shower when she noticed her next charm sitting precariously on the towel rack. Fluffy! Hermione reached out for the three headed stuffed toy, taking it in her hands, just before it shrunk and reappeared on her wrist.
Harry, luckily, had just put down the cup of tea he was enjoying before he was tackled by his wife. He chuckled softly, 'We've an audience, love.'
She blushed prettily as she stood. "Sorry everyone, I needed to thank my husband for this gorgeous Christmas gift he got me!"
The room was laughing at her antics, all of them more than aware of her propensity to attack her husband. Gifts were being opened all around, as the feeling of home swept over her. The look of utter joy in Harry's eyes was all gift she would ever need. 'We're home, Harry, we're home!'
A/N
Another chapter up, one I think I might tackle again at a future date.
A few years ago while wandering Europe as an apprentice chef, I chanced upon a marvel, one which still to this day boggles my mind with its beauty. When I write about "Alder Glen" this is the image I have in my mind of what it looks like. The name of the place is Hohenzollern Castle. Google it. It's stunning.
Have you guys read 'Hope' yet? Do it! Now! Jeconais over at fan fic authors net . I know, I know, I'm pushing the story pretty hard, but the guy writes amazingly well. Another one of his, titled "White Knight, Grey Queen" is also fantastic! It features a Harry/Pansy ship (I know, right?!)
Stay tuned for the next!