Chapter 11 – A Busy Start to School
Friday, September 1st, dawned to a brilliant day with all the residents of the Granger house waking at their usual time to allow for a last run. Harry assured Neil that they planned to keep up with running, at least until the heavy snows started. Then they could probably switch to exercising in the castle. There were certainly enough stairs around. At the beginning of summer, their run had been around 3.5 km, but now they had two routes that were either 5 or 5.2 kilometers. Despite the length, they had built up slowly and everyone was able to run it steadily. While Neil felt they could handle more, there was still a schedule to keep and his dental practice to run. Once they arrived back at the house, everyone showered and then enjoyed a last breakfast together as they talked casually. Harry had been waiting until the right time to say what had been on his mind and now seemed to be it.
"Neil, Jean, I want to thank you for this summer. It has been the best of my life. Thank you for welcoming me and for accepting my relationship with Hermione. I know this next year will be challenging, especially with OWLs, but I want you to know that I will look out for her. No one is more important to me."
"And I'll be watching out for you too Harry. You tend to attract trouble."
"And you'll make sure I'm ready for our tests."
"Of course."
The two had their eyes locked on each other as they smiled and once again Jean felt her heart twinge at the love that was so obvious. Then Harry turned as Neil spoke.
"Well, you're welcome Harry, but having you here has been a pleasure. You know you are always welcome, although I know you also will want to spend time at Potter Manor."
"And when I do, you're all invited. You saw how much space the place has."
Neil nodded in thanks and then the Grangers began the clean up while Hermione and Harry went upstairs to pack their few last minute items. Once they were done, Harry talked to Hedwig and she bobbed her head when he suggested that she fly on ahead. He knew she didn't like being in her cage. Once she was out the window, Harry turned to his girlfriend and they curled up in the window seat together to talk for a bit. Soon they would find it harder for quiet minutes alone and decided to savor the time. Promptly at quarter past nine, Hermione woke a sleeping Crookshanks and put him in his carrier while Harry took hold of both their trunks and headed downstairs. That was one definite advantage to his training over the summer, the trunks were much easier to handle. The Grangers were waiting and soon they were on the road to King's Cross.
The drive took just over an hour given the morning traffic and Neil got lucky on parking, putting them inside the station at half past ten. After goodbyes all around, the Grangers were left on the muggle side of the platform as Hermione and Harry stepped into the magical world. As soon as they arrived on platform 9 3/4, they saw Luna first and walked toward their friend. Her father was his usual unusual self and seemed a bit disconnected, leaving quickly after. The three friends didn't have long to wait before Neville joined them. Then others began to arrive in a steady stream. With fifteen minutes until the hour, they boarded the train and claimed a compartment. The Weasleys had yet to show of course, but they saved a couple of seats. Hermione saw Daphne pass by at one point, but she was careful not to notice the Gryffindors and Ravenclaw. Soon enough they would make their status public, but for now the aloofness was necessary.
With two minutes to spare, the Weasleys arrived in their usual flurry. Ron and Ginny joined the compartment, while the twins went to join others from their year after a quick hello. Then the whistle sounded and they were officially on the way.
The ride to Hogwarts was long, taking just over six hours. The time was used to catch up with different friends as everyone mingled and stretched their legs. Ron and Hermione had received prefect badges just a couple of days before. Included with Hermione's was a note for Harry from McGonagall that detailed her displeasure at the headmaster overriding her decision to make Harry a prefect instead of Ron. Harry appreciated the note, but thought he would have plenty to keep him busy, especially as he tried to catch up in Arithmancy. With their duties, Hermione and Ron were called away for a meeting and later to walk the train during their shift. Ron grumbled and didn't seem enthusiastic, which frustrated Hermione. Harry tried to ignore it, although he sensed a row coming before long.
When they weren't busy with prefect duties, Hermione and Ron spent much of the time with their friends. Hermione of course spent most of her time reading. Harry read some, but also played two chess matches against Ron, one that he almost won. Gradually the long day dragged along and they finally arrived in Hogsmeade shortly before dinner. Hermione and Ron had prefect duties as they helped herd the first years toward Hagrid. In the meanwhile, Harry and Ginny saved them seats in a carriage.
The normal routine continued through the sorting ceremony and then Dumbledore stood to make his usual start of term announcements. One of those included the introduction of their new DADA teacher. Harry couldn't believe it when he saw the ugly pink witch who was the Minister's second in command. As soon as she interrupted the headmaster and gave her speech, it was obvious that the Ministry was taking steps to interfere at Hogwarts. Combined with the various looks that Harry was receiving from around the hall from those who doubted his story about Voldemort's return, it was all a bit much and he left as soon as he could. He gave Hermione a quick kiss before he escaped and promised he would be waiting in the common room when she arrived with the firsties.
That night the Gryffindor common room was raucous as everyone spent time catching up after the summer. A few avoided Harry like the plague, but he tried to not make too big of a scene. With the first being on a Friday, everyone had the weekend off before classes would actually start, which lent to the party atmosphere. Finally, shortly after midnight, McGonagall appeared in her tartan robe and ordered everyone to bed.
On Saturday morning, Harry and Hermione were up early to go for a run around Black Lake. Then, the rest of the weekend was spent lazily enjoying the last of summer outside or playing games with friends inside. Harry found it hard to relax though when he was being forced to sleep without companionship, as well as enduring the rumors and stares around the castle. Late in the afternoon on Saturday, Hermione dragged him into an empty classroom for a proper snogging. Whenever they got too heated in the common room, the whistles and catcalls had cut them short. Harry was ready for more and ready to cast locking and privacy charms when the door opened quietly. He was startled until he saw it was Daphne. He held his hand out to her and she came to him, accepting a long kiss. A couple of minutes later, Ginny and Luna joined them as well. Harry kissed each in turn while Hermione cast the charms on the room.
As soon as the charms were cast, Hermione pulled Daphne to her while Harry focused on Luna for the moment. The blonde was amazingly good with her mouth and tongue as she pressed up to Harry. When his hand wandered under her shirt to rest on her stomach, she shimmied a bit and move him up higher. As his hand rested on her modest breast, she moaned into his mouth and he could almost feel a palpable magic around them. Then Ginny came up behind her and started nuzzling her neck. When Harry took a break for a quick breath, Luna turned to kiss Ginny. Then Harry leaned over and kissed Ginny. As he did so, he looked over and saw that Hermione was laying on a table with her skirt around her waist and Daphne's fingers in her knickers. Ginny looked over and groaned when she saw them as she moved Harry's hand off her bum and to her front. As he cupped her, she moaned and pulled her pants down enough so that he could finger her. Meanwhile, Luna had fished Harry's cock out and was wanking him while they snogged and he got Ginny off. Hermione began to scream as Daphne laid over her and captured her mouth. Then Ginny collapsed against Harry with her own orgasm. Harry didn't know where to look or go next as Luna stopped working him. Then she dragged Harry over to Hermione, whose legs were propped up leaving her open for all to see. Harry needed no further invitation as he plunged into her. Meanwhile, Daphne lost her knickers as she perched over Hermione's face so that the brunette could eat her out. Luna recovered as she watched and gestured Ginny over to her. The redhead hadn't come yet and was more than ready as Luna pulled her pants down and began to lap at her core. The room was filled with sounds of slurping, grunts, and moans as what had been meant to be a meeting devolved into an afternoon of sex. When Harry grunted and poured himself into Hermione, Ginny was just recovering from the work done by Luna's excellent tongue and she drooled as she watched him fill Hermione to overflowing. Daphne came last and collapsed to the side as Harry leaned over and kissed her juices off Hermione's face as the noises subsided into heavy breathing as everyone caught their breath and the magic in the room seemed to snap. Once Harry recovered, he tucked himself back in his pants and helped Hermione up, followed by Daphne. Then they turned to their other two partners as the group all gathered together in a circle. Daphne was feeling a bit embarrassed by the sudden escalation of this unusual partnership, even if the only person Harry had taken was Hermione, but she hid it well as Hermione grinned at her and Ginny spoke up.
"Wow, that was bloody hot. What did you call us here for again Hermione?"
The brunette shook her head, still a bit surprised and needing to refocus.
"Actually, I called us here to talk about when our next member should be approached and how we all want to move forward. It looks like we've already carried forward with the second item though. I have to admit, I'm a bit surprised at the enthusiasm. Not that I minded."
"Neither did I Hermione. I can't believe how much better it was to have someone else get me off. Of course, I don't have a lot of experience. I'm still a virgin, so it may take me a while until I'm ready for Harry. I think our combined magic was amplified more than we realized."
"You're not alone there Luna and I think you may be correct. There is a reason why I'm known as the Slytherin Ice Princess. Of course, the slim pickings in my house don't help. I'm a bit surprised by what just happened, but I don't feel bad about it. At least not the sex with the rest of you. I don't quite understand, but we're all quite strong magically, combined with my suppressed hormones, I was definitely caught by surprise. I do want to wait before I'm ready for Harry. He is a bit intimidating."
"Well, you know I won't push any of you, but watching you together is something else. Wow."
Hermione was looking a bit glazed and shook her head to refocus.
"So, back to when to add our next member. I'm hoping Susan will agree. If we want to be ready by the winter solstice, I'd like to have a chance to establish our relationships first and we will only have a few months."
"I agree Hermione, but we just moved the five of us quite a ways along. Maybe wait a couple of weeks. Then allow some time for the next person to integrate with us before finding the last."
A couple of others nodded in agreement and everyone decided that the plan was a good one. They all stayed and talked a bit longer, but the few tables and stone floor in the empty room weren't very comfortable and everyone agreed that finding a better place to relax with privacy should also be on the agenda. After a half hour talking among themselves, Daphne finished putting herself back together and slipped out first. Harry and Luna left a few minutes later and finally Hermione and Ginny were the last to leave as they all tried to be careful about advertising their relationship.
Monday saw the start of classes for everyone. Thankfully for Hermione and Harry, the day brought Transfiguration, Herbology, and then Astronomy in the evening. They would face Snape on Tuesday, but a day's reprieve was welcome. That night also saw Tonks arriving for Occlumency training. She was scheduled for Mondays and Saturdays due to her current shifts within the Auror department. For the first time, she had six students as all of the potential coven and Neville joined her in the empty classroom that had been designated for the lessons. Ron had also been invited, but saw no need to volunteer for extra studies, even if Harry had explained that he would have to keep secrets if Ron couldn't protect his mind well enough.
The session went well with Daphne and Luna having the strongest shields. Daphne wasn't surprised since her father had made Occlumency an important part of her tutelage. Luna seemed to have natural shields that defied explanation, much like she did overall. When Tonks had tried a gentle probe on Luna, she had pulled away and shook her head at the strange landscape she had encountered. Ginny probably had the least of the coven, but had been diligently working on the skill. Meanwhile, Hermione and Harry had come a long way since the start of summer and Tonks thought that within a month they would reach Daphne's level.
As the session continued, Tonks was doing more than just the training. She was observing her students and trying to piece together some unusual observations about the group. Neville was definitely the odd one out, although the others seemed to welcome him. Still, there was a divider with him that didn't exist with any of the others. Even Daphne as a Slytherin seemed easy with everyone else. And it wasn't due to Neville's shields. They weren't superb, but he had obviously received some training from his grandmother, which was not unexpected for the scion of an old house. She couldn't quite puzzle out the friendships and set her observations aside for a time as the session drew to a close and she wished everyone a good evening.
Tuesday morning saw the dreaded first session with Snape for the fifth year Gryffindors and it was also a double. Everyone trudged down to the basement to face their least favorite professor. Much like the other professors, he gave a speech at the beginning about the importance of their OWL year. His speech was noticeably shorter though as he 'felt certain that only a limited few possessed the capacity to move forward in the noble art of potion making'. Harry suppressed an eye roll and quickly focused on the first potion that they would be brewing for the day, the dangerously complex nerve revitalization potion that was the common treatment after exposure to the cruciatus. Even the double session barely allowed time to finish all the steps in the potion and didn't allow the additional cure time that was needed, but everyone took their samples forward when Snape called an end to the class. He sneered at Harry's dark green potion that had yet to reach the desired olive green shade, but since he didn't make an actual comment, Harry counted it as a win.
After double Potions, Hermione was off to Arithmancy and Harry went to the common room for his own Arithmancy self study. He and Hermione met up after for lunch and the talk at the table among the fifth years was about their next class, DADA with the pink toad from the Ministry. As soon as everyone was finished, they made their way upstairs one level and filed into Professor Umbridge's classroom. With everyone unsure of the professor's temperament, the group was on their best behavior. A few were practicing wand movements right as Professor Umbridge entered the room. Her immediate order of 'wands away' was followed with only a bit of a delay and general shock. She then gave her speech about proper instructions and that there would be no need for children to practice any dangerous spells. Harry wasn't the only one who tried not to choke, but Umbridge's eyes were watching him like a hawk.
"Mr. Potter, did you have something to say?"
"Yes. I find it foolish that we are taking Defense Against the Dark Arts, but will be doing no actual practice in defense."
"Dear boy, of course you won't. Why would a child need to defend himself? As long as you follow the rules and do as your told, you risk no harm."
"Right professor. Just like I didn't risk any harm when I watched Voldemort be resurrected and dueled him in the graveyard where his muggle father is buried."
"LIES! Detention with me tonight Mr. Potter. Arrive promptly at seven. Now, class, you've been told lies over the past few months and now you need to know the truth. The Dark Lord is dead and has been for fourteen years. Any rumors to the contrary are delusional. Now, turn to page eight and read your first chapter. There will be no need to talk."
Harry was about to fire a response at the toad when Hermione's hand on his arm quieted him. He forcefully flipped the book open to the first chapter and spent the next five minutes scanning the worthless text. It included such choice advice as 'making sure to grip your wand firmly' and 'placing your feet at a wider stance for balance'. It was worse than the book that Quirrell had used their first year. The only thing he had to be grateful for was that the class was only a single session. When he finished the reading quickly, he had time to stew and began to mutter under his breath.
"The bloody fool! No harm! Right. Cedric certainly came to harm."
Unfortunately, the toad seemed to have excellent hearing and looked at him furiously.
"A week's detention Mr. Potter! "
Only Hermione's arm around Harry allowed him to calm. He glowered for the rest of class, never touching his book again. The minute class was over, he was out the door. His magic raged as he stepped outside and finally lost control. Everyone around him scattered except Hermione as she threw up a shield to protect everyone else. His wand wasn't out, but a wind whipped down the corridor that was soon charged with so much static electricity that sparks flew everywhere. Hermione's hair was a fright as she was immersed in the storm, wrapped around Harry as she tried to calm him. Unnoticed near them was Professor Flitwick who had sensed and heard a commotion. Finally, Hermione pulled Harry's head down and claimed his mouth with her own. As she drove her tongue into his mouth, his attention was finally diverted as he picked her up and she wrapped her legs around him. While she would never admit it, Hermione's fear had been overtaken by arousal as her magic called out to such a powerful wizard. They were oblivious to anyone around them until Ginny cancelled the shield and stepped over to wrap her arms around them both.
"You two are hot and I'm bothered, but you have quite an audience now."
Ginny's words finally broke through to both of them and they pulled apart as Harry returned Hermione to the ground. As they looked around, they noticed Professors McGonagall and Sinistra, as well as Flitwick, and close to fifty students had responded to the unusual display of magic. Thankfully, Umbridge remained oblivious in her lair. Flitwick was the first on the scene, but gave Minerva a nod that she acknowledged as she stepped forward to take charge of her lions.
"Mister Potter, Miss Granger, perhaps we should talk in my office. Oh, I suppose you as well Miss Weasley."
The three followed their head of house, wondering what else was waiting them in punishments. Once they were in her office and the door was closed, they all sat while the professor cast heavy privacy charms.
"Alright, who wants to go first? Am I correct to assume that your location outside Madam Umbridge's classroom is a clue?"
Harry nodded and took the lead as he detailed his argument and the deplorable situation in the DADA classroom. McGonagall looked unhappy, but resigned. Then Hermione detailed her own involvement and why she took drastic steps to distract Harry. Ginny didn't have anything to add, although the professor wondered why she was holding onto Hermione's arm.
"Well, thank you for explaining what happened. Now I need to explain to you something that is unpleasant. The Ministry is refusing to acknowledge the Dark Lord's return as you know and the Minister is personally scared for his position. Along with a fear of being removed, he fears Dumbledore taking over and this has led to him placing Madam Umbridge here, within the enemy camp, as he sees it. I am well aware that her teaching skills are non-existent. Merlin, Dolores only achieved an acceptable OWL in DADA by two points and never took a NEWT. She only has one NEWT actually in Charms and she didn't get that until four years after leaving school. Anyway, I digress. I need to implore you to not aggravate the situation. I'm sorry, but I can't help with the detention. At this early date we don't have enough reason to challenge her. As for the display outside the classroom, you are aware that overt displays of public affection are not allowed in the hallways. For that, I must deduct ten points each from Miss Granger and Mister Potter. I will commend you Miss Granger for the quick thinking and shielding of the other students and give you 25 points for that. Now, please try to suffer through this and let me know if the situation with Dolores degrades any further."
All three agreed and left the office when they were dismissed. They knew that McGonagall's hands were tied, but she had at least seen that their point deduction was negated. The three left for the Gryffindor common room and tried to study for a while before then moving to the library to join Luna. They saw Daphne in the halls, but were still having to remain aloof from her, which was difficult.
After dinner that night, Harry arrived at Umbridge's office promptly at seven after spending several minutes meditating to try to calm himself. He entered the room and tried not to gag. A color charm had changed all the walls pink. On the walls were a collection of plates with kittens on them. Madam Umbridge sat behind an ornate desk, almost blending into her pink walls. Harry stepped in when summoned and just stood, waiting for his instructions.
"Good evening Mister Potter. Tonight you will be doing lines. Please sit at the desk in the corner."
Harry did as told and Umbridge came to set parchment and a quill in front of him.
"Now, you will write 'I will not tell lies'. Continue until I tell you to stop once the lesson has…sunk in."
"Yes professor, but I have no ink."
"Oh, you won't need ink."
Harry suddenly had a sick feeling what was coming, but just nodded as she turned back to sit behind her desk. He began writing as she told him and he felt the sharp pain in the back of his hand that indicated his suspicion was correct. He knew Gringotts was allowed to use blood quills, but also knew that it was a point of contention with the goblins since the devices were considered borderline dark items. He couldn't believe that Umbridge would legally be allowed to do this. He glanced at his hand and saw that each time he wrote the line, the cuts seemed to take longer to close over. Gritting his teeth, he decided to keep writing enough to make the evidence obvious. Somewhere between fifty and sixty lines, Umbridge turned to look for a book in a bookcase behind her and Harry saw his chance. He grabbed the quill and parchment and darted for the door, shooting a quick protego behind him in case Umbridge responded. As soon as he was out the door, he ran flat out toward McGonagall's office. Years of running from Dudley had made him quite fast and there was no way the toad would catch him. A few students were startled as he barreled by them. When he reached McGonagall's door, he knocked quickly. It took a moment for her to answer since she was actually in her private apartment next to the office, having settled for the night. As soon as she saw Harry, she gestured him in and locked the door.
"Mister Potter…"
"Professor McGonagall, I request that you, as deputy headmistress, summon the Aurors immediately. I, Lord Harry James Potter, have need to pursue charges of assault upon my personage. If possible, it may be advisable that the head of the DMLE be present as well since the charges I wish to pursue will be against a top Ministry official."
McGonagall showed just a moment of surprise. She had questions, but she also knew Harry's rights as the lord of a Most Ancient and Noble House. Instead of responding, she stepped to her floo and called for the Aurors. She also asked for Madam Bones to attend if at all possible. The Auror on duty might have found the request unusual, but he was a former Gryffindor and was not about to question his head of house. Only minutes later, a middle-aged woman dressed in a tailored robes with her hair pulled in a bun and wearing a monocle led two young Aurors out of the floo.
"Good evening Minerva. What seems to be the problem?"
Harry stepped forward to introduce and explain himself. During the time he had been waiting he made a point of not cleaning the blood from his hand, which still dripped a bit and was noticed by Madam Bones.
"Good evening Madam Bones, we met briefly during the last Wizengamot session. I, Lord Harry James Potter, requested Professor McGonagall to call for your attendance as I seek to press charges against Madam Dolores Umbridge for assaulting a lord."
"Good evening Lord Potter, I see you appear injured. Can you explain or do you need medical attention first?"
Harry declined needing immediate medical attention and proceeded to tell Madam Bones what had happened during his detention. He handed over the parchment and quill as evidence and then she also examined his hand. Although she was trying to remain professional, he saw the muscle in her jaw twitching with anger. It was a sign he was familiar with, one of the clues he had learned to watch for with Uncle Vernon. As soon as he finished, Madam Bones turned to the Aurors.
"I think the evidence is quite clear. Please go arrest Madam Umbridge immediately. Bring her back here to the floo."
The Aurors received directions to the appropriate office from McGonagall and then left the three of them while Madam Bones returned her attention to Harry.
"Lord Potter, might I suggest that you make your way to the hospital wing before they return. I will join you there shortly."
Harry thanked her and McGonagall before leaving to do as she suggested. As soon as Madam Pomfrey saw him and heard his story, she started to mutter and looked quite angry. Her tone softened though when she turned back to Harry and offered him a dish of murtlap to soak his hand in. That was how he was found when Professor McGonagall and Madam Bones reached the hospital wing.
"Lord Potter, Dolores Umbridge has been taken into custody and I will be pursuing multiple charges against her, now including assault on an Auror as well. I will most likely need a memory record to enter into evidence. Are you familiar with providing memories?"
"I've heard of it, but I don't know how it's done. I wanted to offer a memory for the case against my godfather, but no one has contacted me."
"Yes, I have Shacklebolt investigating that. I suppose it would be useful to just get both now if you don't mind?"
Harry agreed and was surprised at how simple the process was.
"Thank you Lord Potter. Now, is there anything else I can assist with before I wish you a good night?"
"No, thank you. One question though out of curiosity. Are you any relation to Susan?"
Madam Bones' face softened as she replied.
"Yes, she is my niece and I have raised her since her parents were killed when she was a toddler. I know she tries to not mention my position. It's not easy being the niece of a high ranking Ministry official."
"I understand. I was just curious. Thanks for your help."
Professor McGonagall left as well while Madam Pomfrey attended to Harry. Another half hour soak with the murtlap saw the cuts healed. She added a paste after and then bandaged his hand, asking him to return in the morning and dismissing him for the night.
Instead of going straight back to the Gryffindor tower, Harry diverted to the library. He wasn't surprised to see all of the girls there, studying together. Even Daphne had joined with the excuse that she had an Arithmancy assignment that she was working on with Hermione. As soon as they saw his bandages, the books were forgotten and Ginny had to cast a muffliato on their table as Harry told what had happened and four upset witches worried over him. They were all pleased that Umbridge was gone, but ready to administer their own justice for what she had done. Eventually the group settled and was able to study for another hour before separating to their different houses.
The rest of the week progressed much the same, with the exception that DADA classes were cancelled for the rest of the week while a new professor was found. Harry found himself spending time with the different girls, usually in the library or occasionally an empty classroom. While their focus was schoolwork, he was enjoying getting to know each of them better. While Hermione was the most brilliant, none of the others were far behind her. He would definitely have to stay on his toes to keep up with them.
While he enjoyed time with the group, Harry also made time for just Hermione. As his first girlfriend and best friend for years, he couldn't help thinking of her first. He knew though that he needed to spend individual time with the others, but he wanted to ensure that Hermione was alright with the idea. He was yielding to her for all the major decisions in their multiple relationship. From what he had read, lords from centuries past who had multiple wives and consorts always had a head wife whose opinion was held above all the others. For him that was Hermione. On Thursday evening, they had just finished with her tutoring of his Arithmancy work and set the book aside to take a break when his mind switched to more personal concerns.
"Mione, I've been wanting to talk to you about the others. I've enjoyed spending time as a group, but I also make time for just the two of us. Like us going up to the astronomy tower last night to watch the sunset. I think I want to do the same for the others, but I'm not sure what to do? I'm a bit limited here in the castle. What do you think about the idea?"
"I've been waiting for you to come to that conclusion Harry. I know this is strange for us, but it's important that we build individual relationships as well as the coven. You don't need to worry about planning something big, just time alone to enjoy each other's company or talk. Like we did last night."
"Alright. Maybe a walk around the lake? Except what if we're seen? People will question if I'm alone with other witches without you."
"Yes, the secrecy is still our hardest part. Maybe there's somewhere you can go on the grounds that is less known? Hogwarts: A History has a map, but it only covers the main valley. Maybe I should check for a more detailed map in the library. Or ask someone who has lived here for a long while, except that will require giving explanations to a professor."
Harry's eyes lit up and he grinned and kissed her as inspiration struck.
"Brilliant Hermione! As always. Dobby?"
The excitable elf appeared in front of them with a faint pop.
"The Great Lord Harry Potter sir calls Dobby?"
"Yes Dobby, thanks for coming. And please, it's Harry, or Lord Harry if you must. I need to ask a question, but it has to remain a secret for a while. Even from the headmaster."
"Of course. Dobby is a free elf. Headmaster pays Dobby, but does not own Dobby. Dobby will keep all secrets for anyone he wishes, especially the great Harry Potter."
"Um, thanks. What I need is a place to go where I can have some privacy with a friend. I need to make sure that no one sees us. I'd like a place outside, as well as inside the castle for when the weather gets cold. I was thinking about taking a walk around the lake, but everyone will see us."
"Dobby can help! Lord Harry can take his walk and Dobby will cast elf charms on Lord Harry and friends. No one will notice you. Inside the castle, Lord Harry can use the Come and Go Room. It is also called the Room of Requirement. It will give you what you require and will be much better suited for Lord Harry and friends than a dusty old classroom like this."
"Really? Well both options sound great. Where is this room? Can you show us?"
Dobby reached and grabbed Harry on one side and Hermione on the other. Before they realized what was happening, they had been transferred from the third floor to the seventh and were staring at the ridiculous tapestry of Barnabas the Barmy trying to teach trolls to dance ballet. It was a notable landmark in a castle full of portraits and tapestries.
"Wow Dobby, that was…um…interesting. Definitely better than normal apparition. Now, where is this room?"
"The room will appear when you specify your need Lord Harry. Just walk three times from here to there and think of what you need."
Harry shrugged and proceeded to do as instructed. As his third pass finished, a carved door began to materialize in the stone wall across from the tapestry. Glancing at Hermione, Harry took her hand and they opened the door and stepped through. Inside they found a room that looked like a cross between the library and Gryffindor common room, with long study tables, bookcases along the walls, and several comfortable seating areas throughout. Harry thought that it may be good to include colors from the other houses as well. As soon as he finished the thought, some of the furnishings began to change. Then he thought that having a place to practice spell casting would be helpful. Again, the room changed, appearing to expand at one end as a third of the room became a training arena, complete with practice dummies.
"Wow, this is brilliant Dobby. So the room can give us anything?"
"Dobby has talked with the head elf of the castle. Fip says that the room cannot create that which does not exist in the castle and must follow the rules of absolutes. Dobby does not understand, but still he thinks the room is wonderful. When Winky drinks too much, Dobby brings her here for privacy until he can sober and heal her enough to return to the kitchens."
Hermione's mind was churning through the details of the room, but decided to focus on the last information from Dobby.
"What? Winky is working here now?"
"No Miss Hermione. Winky has nowhere else to go. Headmaster offers to pay her, but she refuses. Other elves do not like her and do not let her do much. Winky is wasting away. She should let the Hogwarts' magic help her like Dobby does, but she does not."
"Alright, let's see if we can straighten this out. What is this about Hogwarts' magic? What is going to happen with Winky?"
"Dobby comes to Hogwarts after he is freed. It is good to be away from bad wizards, but Dobby needs magic. Without a master, Dobby will have no master and will die. Hogwarts is powerful enough to keep Dobby alive. Winky will not allow this though and will not survive much longer."
Hermione took a deep breath, trying to control her frustration and anger. Harry's arm around her helped.
"So, an elf needs to bond to a wizard to feed off their magic, or the elf needs to be in a strong magical location?"
"Miss Hermione is correct, except even Hogwarts doesn't give Dobby the same power he once had."
"Alright, so if you bonded to someone, your power would increase? What about Winky? Would she wish to bond again?"
"Yes, an elf's power is dependent on his master. Winky wants a family, but feels she is not worthy."
Hermione shook her head and looked at Harry. He could tell what she was thinking, but he wanted her to say it first.
"Harry, I hate to even consider this, but it doesn't look like there's a choice. I know the Potters once had more elves and will probably need more in the future when you live at the manor full time. Do you want to see if they will bond with you?"
"I agree with the solution Hermione, but only if you are sure. I don't want to cause problems between us. You know I will treat them well."
"Of course. And no, it won't cause a problem. Maybe though you should call for Milly, since he's your head elf."
"That makes senses, but first let me check with Dobby. Dobby, would you like to bond to House Potter with me as your master? Would Winky be willing to bond as well?"
The small elf suddenly began to tremble as large tears leaked out of his eyes.
"Great Lord Harry Potter wants Dobby? Yes! Dobby will be a Potter house elf. Let me collect Winky."
Dobby popped out and was gone for less than a minute when he returned with Winky. She was in a sad state, wearing a filthy pillowcase. Her skin was grey and waxy and her arms looked like sticks. It was easy to see she didn't have long. Taking Hermione's advice, Harry called for Milly. He knew that calling his elves to him at school was possible, but also knew that the long distance took a lot of power, so he had decided to avoid doing it often. Still, Milly appeared as soon as he was summoned and it was easy to see he was upset when he saw Winky in her current state.
"Milly, I called you here to witness and help me add two elves to House Potter. This is Dobby and Winky. Dobby is a free elf that I helped to leave an evil family. Winky was unfairly dismissed from her former family. I've just found out that elves need to bond to a wizard or witch to help their magic. Can you help me with bonding them? Will you and the others mind adding them to House Potter?"
"Tis no bother Lord Harry. More elves will help when you and others visit the manor. I can perform the binding rite if you give me your hand."
Harry held out his right hand and Milly took hold of him as he laid Harry's hand on Winky's head first. He muttered a spell and Harry felt a large draw on his magic, then he noticed Winky visibly brighten as she gave him a small smile. Milly then moved his hand to Dobby and repeated the same incantation. The draw on his magic was less, but the effect was greater as Dobby began to hop up and down with joy. Harry laughed at his antics and gave him a minute to calm.
"Now Milly, I think I will send Winky with you if that's alright? Dobby, I'd like you to stay at the school to help me with tasks like what we discussed before. Whenever I don't need you, you may help in the castle. Does that sound alright to everyone?"
The elves all agreed and then Milly turned away from Dobby's antics and back to Harry.
"Lord Harry, Winky will take time to regain her strength and won't be able to help me with the travel. Since it is a fair distance, may I draw strength from you for us to return to the manor?"
Harry readily consented and Milly touched his arm for a moment. Harry felt a brief draw on his magic and then the two elves were gone, leaving just Dobby waiting eagerly for orders.
"Dobby, I have another question about your abilities. If, for example, Hermione and I were to stay here in this room after curfew, would you be able to return us to Gryffindor tower?"
"Ooh yes! Dobby can take you each back to your beds. Dobby can go now and close curtains with a charm so that no one will see you aren't there, then you call later and Dobby will put you in bed."
"Harry! You can't be…"
Harry grinned and pulled her to himself, silencing her with his lips. As she melted under his hands, the elf disappeared to his tasks in each of their dorms. By the time the young lovers pulled apart briefly, their tops were gone. Hermione looked to the side and saw the room had been changed and now featured a large four poster bed. Then Harry's hands fondled her breasts and the last of her reserve melted away.
Despite feeling a bit guilty of her less than prefect worthy actions, Hermione was too happy and tired to much care when Dobby returned her to her bed in the early morning hours. She had been missing time with Harry and the amazing room they had discovered would now remedy that. She still wished she could sleep in his arms, but they had class the next day and her roommates would expect to see her about.
The following day after classes, Harry finished his Potions homework and then pulled Daphne aside to a back corner of the library to talk.
"So Daphne, since your work is done, would you like to go for a walk with me around the lake? I've arranged a way that we won't be noticed."
"Really? Well, I'm intrigued, and I will agree to accompany you."
Harry grinned and called quietly for Dobby. The elf had been expecting the call and popped in, took hold of their hands, and popped out. He delivered them to the south side of the lake, which offered a good view of the sunset. Then Dobby cast the elf notice-me-not charm before leaving them alone.
"Well then, according to Dobby, that charm will provide us the cover we need. Elf magic is quite interesting."
Daphne had to agree as she took his hand and they began a leisurely walk. He first explained about Dobby and Winky, as well as the new room they had discovered. He planned to show it to the others over the weekend. As the last rays of sun dipped down below the horizon, they paused and Harry pulled Daphne to him. She yielded herself to his firm hands and supple lips as his light kiss soon became more. She may be known as the Ice Princess in her house, but Harry definitely knew how to thaw her. After a good snog, they walked the rest of the way in twilight, discussing school and touching on home a bit. It was a good time to get to know each other better and Harry resolved to do the same with the others, as well as put the effort into cherishing each individual despite their unusual multiple relationship. As they neared the castle, Harry called Dobby back and the elf took Daphne to a bathroom not far from the Slytherin common room, while he returned Harry to his dorm. They each then ate at their house tables that night, with no one the wiser about their relationship.
That weekend Harry managed quiet time with each of his witches. The lake walks were popular and he enjoyed getting to know them all better. On Sunday evening the entire group gathered together on the seventh floor and the others were introduced to the Room of Requirement. Although the room couldn't produce food, Dobby happily catered dinner for the group in the privacy that the room allowed.
The first week of school was now past and they were all settling in and growing accustomed to their partnership. It remained to be seen how it would work in the long term, but the early indications were good.
