Chapter 21
(A/N I do not own any of these characters they belong to J K Rowling)
Harry groaned and moved in his sleep as his dream continued. He smiled contently as he watched the dream version of himself and Hermione dancing, when he felt himself being jolted awake. Groaning he tried to find the reason and opened his eyes to find a sleepy and confused Hermione poking him.
"Harry wake up…Harry why are we here?"
"Mione."
"Harry, why does my head hurt so much?"
Harry sat up he knew that short term confusion and memory loss was a side effect of whatever potion was used on Hermione and knew he had to tread carefully.
"It's a little complicated Mione… Do you remember any of last night?"
Hermione closed her eyes and shook her head. "I remember arguing with Draco and dancing with Ron… No wait, it was the other way round I was dancing with Draco and you were with Blaise its kind of fuzzy after that…"
Harry nodded and helped Hermione up he had noticed that there were clean clothes in the room for both of them and helped Hermione to the bathroom and passed her the clean clothes for her to change into. Once she was out he went in himself and hurriedly got dressed. Walking out of the bedroom they walked into Dumbledore's office where breakfast was waiting for them. Sitting down Harry looked around to see where Dumbledore was but there seemed to be no sign of him.
The two started eating and had just finished when the door to the office opened and Dumbledore walked in.
"Harry, Hermione good morning… How are you feeling Hermione?"
The last part was said rather gently towards the girl who frowned at the question.
"I'm not really sure professor, my head hurts, I feel really weak and I don't remember much of last night. What is wrong with me?"
Dumbledore glanced at Harry and told Hermione what had happened to her last night, he stressed that Harry had found her before anything happened and that her attacker ran off.
Hermione although clearly distressed at the news continued to listen quietly.
"What potion was given to me?"
"Severus is analysing a sample of your blood as we speak to attempt to identify what it was, although he has made a pretty good guess that your lack of memory of last night is a side effect of the potion."
Hermione nodded when she suddenly started to cry. Worried for his girlfriend, Harry wrapped his arms around her and let her. He turned towards his guardian.
"What can we do to find out who did this to her?"
"I've handed the knife that Hermione used to defend herself to Alastor and Kingsley they will run some tests to identify whose blood is on it. However the test will take some time. Considering the amount of blood on the knife it's sufficient to say that our attacker must have been hurt quite a bit and as a result Poppy will keep an eye out for any one who comes in for an injury that resembles a knife attack."
Hermione then spoke up and asked the question that was bothering her a lot about last night. "Why would I leave the hall, I don't understand?"
Dumbledore got up and started to pace the room. "Severus, Minerva and I have discussed that last night. We believe that you were lead out by a person you would place some trust in and that may be our Gryffindor spy. I can use Occlumency to find out who the spy and attacker was but I can't do this until we are sure the potion has completely left your blood and you have recovered somewhat from the attack. Should I do this now, the result will be inconsistent and in your current state could seriously harm your mental wellbeing."
"How long?"
"I believe we can attempt at the end of the holiday."
Dumbledore pulled out his pocket watch and glanced at the time.
"I have given you both the day off however it is the last day of term and we will be leaving for headquarters tonight so you may as well use this opportunity to say goodbye to your friends. I suggest you visit Severus and Narcissa, they have been worried for the two of you."
Harry got up and helped Hermione to her feet.
"I've got to take Mione to Madame Pomfrey first then we will go and meet them."
"Very well Harry."
Harry and Hermione walked out of the room and towards the hospital wing slowly, Harry kept wondering as to how Hermione was feeling who herself was trying to understand what had happened to her. After a long silent walk they finally reached the infirmary where once there, Madame Pomfrey ran a series of test on Hermione.
"Well the good news is that most of the potion has left Miss Granger's body so her strength should return to normal soon, however until then you will tire easily. To help I would recommend some dreamless sleep potion and pepper-up potion for a few days. Professor Snape has informed me that he is spending the holidays with the both of you, so he will take over the tests for me and also give you the correct dose of the potions too."
"What about my memory?"
"The headmaster is looking into that, he's assured me he will help you too try to regain as much of your memory as possible."
(Next Scene - Snape's private chambers)
Severus angrily picked up another empty flask and threw it angrily at the wall.
"Damn it Cissa, they trust us and we couldn't even help them, Hermione almost got raped last night. If it hadn't been for the fact she was trained to fight the effects of potions like this she… she…"
Narcissa got up and hugged Snape as he tried to fight for control over his temper, the cold calm potions professor rarely lost control but when he did it tended to be extreme.
"Shh, Severus, what if the children saw you like this, they are relying on us to be strong and we have to be. Harry is going to have to be strong for Hermione and be there for her but he will need all of us too. Also we were lucky in that Hermione was able to fight her attacker long enough till you and Harry could get to her. Perhaps now we will be closer to finding out who the spy is."
Snape tightened his arms around Narcissa as he let her words sink in. What she was saying was true; Harry and the other children would need them to be strong. While Harry still had Dumbledore the other children didn't have quite the same connection with him as Harry has. The support and comfort role was going to ultimately fall down to himself, Narcissa and most likely Remus.
"Are we going to tell Hermione's parents?"
"I don't know Cissa. We technically should but these aren't normal circumstances I believe Albus will discuss this further with Hermione once she has sufficiently recovered."
Narcissa grimaced, "Well we need to decide soon, we all leave for Grimmauld tonight and the Grangers will be arriving there in a few days."
"I know but…" Snape stopped as they heard knocking on the door frowning Snape concentrated in his wards and recognised the magical signature.
"Come in Harry."
He and Narcissa separated as the door opened and Harry walked in supporting Hermione.
"Hermione, how are you feeling now?"
Hermione shrugged. "I'm… not really sure… confused slightly…"
Snape nodded and turned to Narcissa who smiled and nodded slightly. Harry watched as Narcissa led Hermione out of the living room and into another room.
"Sit down Harry."
"The reason Cissa has led Hermione out of this room is to talk to her and allow myself to talk to you. Harry, attempted rape is an awful thing to happen to anyone the whole reason for last nights attack wasn't to kill Hermione but to harm you and her in the worst possible manor."
Harry nodded as he clenched and unclenched his fists, Snape seeing this got up and walked over to the cupboard on the other side of the room from there he took two glasses and a bottle. Pouring some of the liquid into both glasses he gave one to Harry and kept one himself. Harry took the glass confused, he wasn't stupid he knew exactly what was in the glass.
"Sir?"
"Single malt whisky, Harry and a lot better than that filth that Mundungus drinks, this amount won't cause you to get drunk Harry and after what's been going on I believe you deserve a drink."
Harry nodded as he sipped the drink slightly gagging at the taste but it made him feel warm so he continued drinking as Snape started to talk.
"Harry, there are a few things I need to talk to you about and you may not like hearing them but someone needs to say them. Harry, the effects that this will have on Hermione will be great, she may be slightly clingy and fearful from now on for some time and also some sense of shame that she was unable to prevent the attack."
"But it wasn't her fault."
"I know that but she may take some convincing, there is also the fact that she may believe that she isn't good enough for you and that she will be liability and may attempt to distance herself from you. On the other side of the coin she may attempt to go further with you than she has been before. I don't mean to embarrass you but I will be correct in assuming that you haven't been intimate yet?"
Harry didn't say anything but his red face was all the answer Snape needed.
"What I'm trying to say is that if Hermione tries to seek comfort like that from you then you may have to…"
"I understand what you're saying sir I wont do anything that will hurt Hermione."
"I'm glad Harry, we will try everything to catch who did this to Hermione."
(Next scene – Hermione and Narcissa)
Narcissa held the girl as she let the last of her tears fall although she managed to keep a mostly brave front for Harry's sake, Hermione was fragile but the talk with Narcissa helped her get past the most of her ordeal and Harry's quiet continued support will get her through everything else. After years of torture that Lucius had put her through Narcissa was unfortunately no stranger to rape and torture and knew exactly what the young girl was going through.
"Are you going to tell my family?"
"They deserve to know, Hermione. If we didn't tell them, do you think you could keep this to yourself especially when they will be joining us soon?"
"No."
"Your parents are intelligent, understanding people, Hermione, they will understand. Yes they will be angry and may possibly even blame us for a short time."
"But it wasn't your fault!"
"I know but any parent may possibly react like this if they found out that their child was attacked in such a way."
"I remember hardly any of it and look at me, I can't stop crying."
"You went through a terrible ordeal Hermione, there is nothing wrong with crying but just remember that you held off your attacker until Harry could get to you."
Hermione got up to leave.
"Thank you Narcissa, we better leave, I know that you and Professor Snape probably still need to pack."
"Just think about what I said Hermione and remember there are people all around you that care for you, whether it be here at Hogwarts or at Grimmauld Place."
Just as Hermione was about to walk out the room Narcissa stopped her and cast a quick charm which hid the evidence of Hermione's tears. Giving her a grateful smile they walked into the living room to find Harry and Snape in a deep conversation.
"Harry, we should get going. We both still need to pack and get ready to leave headquarters tonight."
"Okay Hermione, we will see you both later in Albus' office then."
"Harry?"
"Yes Narcissa?"
"Send Draco here if you see him, he needs to pack."
"Sure."
(Next Scene – Draco point of view)
"What do you think happened?"
Draco stared at his girlfriend as always she looked calm and collected, a perfect Slytherin, but he could see the anger just below her calm mask.
"Its obvious the attack was set up to hurt Harry by harming Hermione, the fact that she's muggleborn was probably just the icing on the cake."
"I've been wondering about the spy in Gryffindor house. Hopefully Hermione can remember about who tricked her and took her out of the hall and as for the attacker if she can't remember then the blood will tell us."
"Its not going to be that easy Blaise, there are plenty of dark spells out there that could confuse the results of the test, but…"
"But what, what is it Dray?"
"Do you know who else was missing at around the same time as Hermione?"
"I know that Finnegan and Nott were…"
"So was the Weasel."
"Weasel's a prick, I get that but do you really think he would try to rape Hermione?"
"I don't know Blaise but you didn't see him before the attack, you know when you dragged Harry off to dance?"
Explaining what had happened when Ron had come over Blaise sighed. "I think you should tell Professor Snape, Dray if not Dumbledore, I wouldn't tell Harry yet, he may just kill Weasley."
"And that's a bad thing because…"
At seeing his girlfriend's glare he hurried on, "I'll go now I need to pack anyway, you ready."
Blaise nodded. "Of course I am, I'm a Slytherin were always ready. I'm going to miss you."
Draco pulled his girlfriend into his arms.
"I'm going to miss you too but it will only be for a few days, you're joining us at Christmas, aren't you?"
"Umm yes besides I'll be there whenever there's an order meeting too."
After kissing his girlfriend quite thoroughly a reluctant Draco sighed and pulled away.
"I best get going, mum will get annoyed if I don't get ready, I'll come and see you later."
Walking out of Blaise's room Draco went to his own and hurriedly packed his belongings thankfully there wasn't a lot that he was needing to take so he was soon done. Leaving his room he walked down the corridor towards Snape's and his mum's personal quarters, knocking once he walked in when he heard Snape call his name.
"Mum, Severus?"
"Hello Draco sit down, did Harry send you?"
"Harry? No mum, I haven't seen him or Hermione yet. How is she, Blaise and I went to the infirmary this morning but she wasn't there."
"As well as can be expected to be perfectly honest."
"I guess… What happened last night? I mean me and Blaise figured most of it but how did Harry know where Hermione was and how as Hermione able to fight the effects of that potion?"
Severus took a deep breath as he wondered how best to answer Draco's question but he knew it would be pointless, Draco was at times worse than Hermione when it came to finding things out, he simply wouldn't let things slide by.
"Albus and I gave Hermione and Harry some training on how to fight the effects of certain potions including love, lust and mind controlling potions similar to the one that was given to Hermione last night. As for Harry knowing where Hermione was last night, the two seem to have a very deep bond and it was mostly instinct… There is more to this but it's not my place to tell and no, Draco, you will not push Harry to tell you, he will inform you himself when it's the right time."
Draco glared at Snape and opened his mouth to argue but quickly closed it again at the look his mother gave him.
"All right, I'll leave it for now. There was something else I wanted to say anyway, Blaise and me came up with a list of students, well likely students that had also disappeared when Hermione did."
"I know that a fair number of Slytherin students were conveniently not there who else?"
"Weasel."
"You sure about that?"
Draco looked insulted. "Of course I am! Blaise personally doesn't think he's got the balls to do something like that but Weasel did try to throw himself at Hermione again last night just before that attack."
"Explain Draco."
Once again Draco described the confrontation between himself, Hermione and Ron, he picked up on the concerned glance that his mother and Snape shared.
"I'll have to tell Albus, this is not going to be pleasant."
"Why?"
Narcissa sighed. "You know of the problem Harry has been having with certain members of the Weasley family. Well over the holidays there are a few order meetings to be held at Grimmauld Place and obviously the Weasleys will all be there."
Draco grimaced. "All of them?"
"Not all of them are that bad Draco, the two eldest sons and the twins are both pleasant members and you already know about Ginny, quite the little spitfire that one. Arthur is also a good man but just under his wife's thumb the majority of the time."
Snape commented, "But if the brat is going to be there, let's hope he learns to keep his mouth shut before Harry quite likely kills him, he's more than capable of it. One more thing Draco, Harry is a member if there is a meeting he will be at it, which means that I will need you to stay with Hermione. I think Harry and I will feel much better about it since the brat isn't a member."
Draco nodded he wasn't too surprised at the request. Narcissa broke the silence that had fell between the three of them.
"We only have a little time left before we leave. Draco, are you packed…? Good then we will meet in Albus' office at the required time."
(Next scene – Harry's room)
Harry had walked Hermione up to the Gryffindor dormitory and stayed out side the door that led to the room, since Hermione didn't want to be alone. Thankfully there were only a few students in the common room, most of who bravely stayed away when they saw the look on Harry's face. The few who were foolish enough to approach them backed off when Harry glared and moved to grasp his wand, Parvati and Lavender squeaked when Harry did this and ran away. Hermione packed quickly and cast a feather light charm on her trunk and walked out. She and Harry made their way to Harry's room where she let out a sigh of relief and closed her eyes as she attempted to calm herself. Opening her eyes she noticed the concerned look that Harry was giving her.
"I'm fine Harry, you need to pack go, I'll be fine."
Harry nodded and rushed to his bedroom while Hermione quickly made her way to the living room, when Harry's parents noticed her. Lily immediately gave out a greeting when she realise that something was wrong.
"Hermione, what's wrong, has something happened? Neither yourself and Harry came back last night we've been worried."
Hermione opened her mouth to explain what happened but found it difficult.
"It's okay Hermione take your time, take some deep breaths, is it about the book?"
Hermione shook her head and slowly described what had happened to her last night at the end of which Godric Gryffindor growled and stormed out of the painting, Lily sent a concerned look at the direction that Godric had stormed off in and turned to Hermione too explain.
"Hermione, Godric hates rapist, to him there is no worse crime than rape and that a Gryffindor helped your attacker does not sit well with him then there is also the fact that you are our son's girlfriend, Hermione and we both care for you."
"I just wish I could remember who did this to me, I had to have Harry take me to my room I was so afraid."
"That's a normal reaction Hermione you don't have anything to be ashamed of."
"That's what Narcissa said to me."
Lily smiled and nodded. "Listen to Narcissa and if you need to talk to anyone then I as well as Narcissa are here for you. When will you be going to head quarters?"
"Today we will be going soon as the rest of the students leave for the holidays."
"We're both going to miss you both, try to come here on Christmas day if you can even if it's for just a short while."
"We'll come mum, don't worry about that."
Harry had just finished packing and walked out of the bedroom to hear his mum's request, Lily smiled and got a wistful look.
"Harry, I want to speak to Narcissa and see my godson, Draco. Speak to Albus and see if they can be told about your real heritage it also isn't fair that Sev is having to keep such a big secret on his partner, especially when she is your godmother."
"I'll speak to Albus, mum, it should be fine if all goes well I'll bring them here on Christmas day to see you, Blaise may come with us."
"Blaise?"
"Blaise Zabini, Lily she's also a Slytherin and is Draco's girlfriend," Hermione answered.
"Simone and Alastor's little girl?"
"Yeah mum, did you know them?"
"Simone was in most of my classes, I knew her well and as for Alastor well he was one of the few Slytherins who never said anything about my muggleborn heritage. I'm surprised they are with the order, the Zabinis are famed for their neutrality."
"I don't think they exactly had a choice Lily, things are a lot worse this time and Blaise and Draco's relationship basically made their minds up for them."
Lily nodded. "I can see that, if you earn a Zabini's trust it's a big thing they rarely give it to anyone and when they do they are loyal friends. But we are getting ahead of ourselves here, we need to see if the others agree to it first."
"Mum, where's father?"
Hermione opened her mouth to answer when Godric walked back into the painting.
"I'm here son I simply needed to cool down slightly."
"Is everything alright father?"
Godric nodded. "Enough about me I want to talk to you both before you leave."
The four spent the rest of the morning talking until it was time to leave, for appearances sake they were going to the great hall and see of the rest of their house mates. Once the train had left Hogwarts to head back to London they would head towards Grimmauld Place.
(Next Scene – Great Hall)
Albus Dumbledore looked around the hall to see if he could see Harry or Hermione, it was soon time for the students and themselves to leave. He felt someone tug at his sleeve, it was Snape.
"I believe they have gone to say goodbye to his parents, Albus."
Dumbledore nodded, still he was relived when he spied them both come in and walk straight towards Draco and Blaise on the Slytherin table and sit down. He turned towards Snape only to see him scan the rest of the hall quite intensely, mimicking his potions professor Dumbledore raised an eyebrow in question.
"I was simply observing the reaction of Hermione's calm appearance in the hall against a list of, shall we say, suspect names."
Dumbledore had a grim look. "I see and…"
"Nott and crew had a look of surprise and anger but that doesn't necessarily mean they carried out the attack, although I dare say they were aware and Weasel also had a curious expression on his face, it was half anger and half fear."
"I believe that we need to keep an eye on these certain students and I…"
"What Albus?"
"I've always been reluctant to take this step Severus but after what's happened I think we will have to check the students for the dark mark on their return."
Snape felt sick he knew he would be losing some students.
"What of those that are forced?"
"I have thought about that, I have permission from the Ministry for the use of Veritaserum in this case and also any genuine followers of Voldemort will be expelled immediately. Also all houses will be checked, not just Slytherin."
Snape nodded, at least he would be able to save those few students that were forced to take the mark due to family pressures.
"There is one more thing I wanted to address with you it's rather sensitive, it's about the Weasleys."
Dumbledore nodded. "Minerva also pointed out the same to me. The only thing I can see is that we will have to have their attendance down to a minimum, as far as I know Harry is only allowing them too attend while there is order meeting. As for Ronald I suspect you have had Draco make sure he stays away from Hermione."
"Of course."
"Molly wanted to stay with the entire family for Christmas, I'm afraid I used yourself and Narcissa as an excuse to get her to drop her idea though she is still hoping for the whole family to turn up on Christmas day."
"I don't mind the rest of the family Albus but I don't want Christmas to be ruined for the children."
"I agree if necessary we may have Christmas dinner here at Hogwarts and have the rest of the order here as well, the more people the better, don't you think?"
"It seems the best course to me, but we should discuss this with the rest of the family."
Dumbledore started to chuckle, causing Snape to give him a surprise look.
"What's so amusing about what I said Albus?"
"Oh its nothing Severus, its just well you described us all as a family, this time last year I believe we were all quite far from that."
"I understand Albus last year I was alone and know I have, well in some ways you can say, a wife, son, a godson and well you and Minerva are in a sense almost like Harry's parents now."
Dumbledore blushed slightly at hearing himself and Minerva described as parents.
"Don't forget a potential daughter in law and an uncle and aunt in Remus and Nymphadora."
"Poor Remus."
"Now really Severus, Nymphadora is a wonderful young woman and will be good for Remus."
"Still doesn't mean that I won't feel sorry for the man."
(Harry's point of view)
Harry and Hermione quickly assured their two friends that they were okay, although Draco and Blaise could see the barely concealed fear in Hermione's eyes and the brave face that Harry put on. Still they tried their best to make the two feel comfortable. Since Blaise was going home for most of the holidays they wanted to make sure she would be okay going home on the Hogwarts Express and that she was well aware of the holiday plans.
Blaise rolled her eyes at her friends. "Will you relax I will be fine, I do have other friends."
"I know hun but I don't like the fact that the junior death eaters will also be on the train as well as the Gryffindor pests."
"Professor Lupin and Moody are going on the train as guards, do you really think they will try anything? Besides I'll be with Daphne and some of the others and Dray you forget, I'm a Zabini they would be fools to attack me so openly."
"Blaise is right Draco although neutral the Zabini name holds a lot of power in the wizarding world they wouldn't dare attack in public. Still if anything does happen Blaise…"
"Get to one of the guards, I know besides shush it's almost time to leave now."
Blaise was right as several of the professors and the prefects quickly started to usher the students out of the hall. Standing up the others quickly hugged Blaise and told her to take care, before she joined the Slytherin queue to get to the platform. Once the last few students had left the three made their way to the head table where Snape, Narcissa and Dumbledore were waiting for them, McGonnagall as deputy head mistress was making sure that all the students boarded the Express safely. Harry remembered his mother's request and tilted his head slightly at Dumbledore indicating that he wanted to speak to him in private. Dumbledore nodded.
"Well no point in waiting we should head towards my office, Harry…"
Harry walked towards Dumbledore as they left ahead of the others to get to his office the other four walked some way behind them, making sure no one could overhear Dumbledore started the conversation.
"Is everything okay Harry, is it Hermione?
"No Albus it's a request really from Mum."
"Ah let me guess it wouldn't have to do with Narcissa and Draco, would it?"
Harry's mouth dropped open quickly shutting it he started. "How the bloody hell do you… Oh never mind yes."
Dumbledore chuckled. "It was just a matter of time Harry, Narcissa was one of Lily's best friends and she has not seen her godson, of course she would want to see them. The one thing I want to know is, are you ready for your heritage to come out?"
"Yes I've talked to mum and father about this I want my godmother to know, Albus. I know Dray will keep it to himself and Blaise is trustworthy as well, it wouldn't be fair to expect Draco to keep this a secret from her besides she already knows quite a lot."
"Miss Zabini is certainly cunning enough to have worked out several things. Harry, you're right, I will speak to Severus about this but I can't see why not, besides your mother hinted as much."
"Oh when did you visit them?"
Dumbledore mentally kicked himself. "The other day I umm wanted to discuss Hogwarts security with Godric."
"Oh okay."
Dumbledore let out a sigh of relief when Snape and the others caught up with them, he realised that he was going to have to keep watch on what he said around Harry again, he hated the fact he was keeping secrets but there really wasn't other choice in the matter.
They soon reached the office and walked in and waited for McGonnagall to arrive about twenty minutes later she did.
"The express has left Albus, all the students got on safely, despite one small problem."
"What was it Minerva?"
It was Snape who decided to ask, Minerva sighed.
"It was nothing big, it was between Miss Weasley and Mr. Weasley, I don't know the particulars but Mr. Weasley must have said something that Miss Weasley didn't like for she ended up kicking him rather hard between the legs."
"So what punishment did she get Minerva?"
"Nothing Albus."
Dumbledore's eyes twinkled as Draco started to laugh.
"Really Minerva, as the strict Gryffindor disciplinarian I would have expected some form of punishment?"
"Its quite simple Albus, I didn't see the alleged attack, it was a rather gleeful Miss Zabini who told me what happened. You can't expect me to go round and punish innocent students, can you Albus?"
"Of course not my dear, well shall we?"
Dumbledore pulled out a length of rope as everyone except himself and Minerva grabbed onto it, on the questioning glances they got he replied, "Fawkes will bring us."
Two second later the two professors and three students disappeared, Dumbledore turned seriously towards his deputy.
"Well…?"
"He made a rather derogatory remark about Harry and Ginevra lashed out. Albus from the way he was speaking and acting, I don't believe he was Hermione's attacker, he was making insinuations about Harry and Hermione having disappeared for most of the night."
Dumbledore grimaced. "We should leave, the others will be wondering what kept us behind, I'll inform Severus of this later."
McGonnagall nodded as she made her way towards Fawkes and at the same time as Dumbledore, grabbed his tail feathers.
There was again that similar strange feeling that McGonnagall faced last time they had travelled like this together, in the space of a few seconds she found herself again in Grimmauld Place in the order meeting room where a smirking Severus was waiting for them.
"The children are unpacking and Narcissa is in the kitchen with the house elves."
McGonnagall nodded. "I think we should unpack too. I guess we will meet at supper, Albus, you may want to take the opportunity to speak to Severus now."
With that McGonnagall left and headed back to the room she had taken during the summer. Watching her walk out Snape turned to the headmaster who repeated McGonnagall's observations.
"What makes her so sure it wasn't Weasley?"
"We didn't get enough time to fully discuss what happened at the platform, but you know as well as I do that Minerva isn't one to make such mistakes."
"I know. What were you and Harry talking about earlier?"
Snape walked towards the sofa in the room and sat down as Dumbledore sat on the chair opposite, there was a brief interruption as a well-dressed Kreatcher gave them drinks and then disappeared.
"Lily wants to meet Draco and Narcissa."
"I'm surprised Lily lasted this long without asking."
"I think she wanted to give Harry time to meet and trust his godmother, I have no objections, what of yourself?"
Snape shook his head. "Of course not, I think it will be good for Cissa to meet her old friend again and Draco has been curious about his godmother for some time now. What of Harry's father though?"
"I asked Harry how he felt, he said that he wants to tell them the truth regarding his parentage and tell Miss Zabini as well, we mustn't forget her. Christmas day should be a good day to spill the beans, don't you think?"
Snape raised an eyebrow as he finished his fire whisky.
"I take it that we will be having dinner at Hogwarts?"
"Not necessarily Severus, we said we will discuss that as a family and we will, its just that Lily and Godric asked Harry and Hermione to visit them on Christmas day and this can be a kind of gift for Narcissa and Draco, don't you think."
"Whatever you think best, I think we should discuss this more with Harry and see what he decides."
Snape got up to walk out of the room when Dumbledore stopped him.
"Yes Albus?"
Dumbledore shook his head he had thought about discussing the book Hermione had found with him but changed his mind.
"Its nothing Severus sorry, you carry on."
"If you're sure Albus."
(Next Scene)
Harry hurriedly entered the kitchen to join everyone else for dinner despite there being a formal dining room, the kitchen just seemed so much cosier than everywhere else, especially with Kreatcher, Dobby and Winky there. Harry remarked on the changes to Kreatcher he seemed a lot more sane than before and was smartly dressed even Dobby's clothes appeared to be much more toned down in colour than before. Needless to say Hermione was pleased to see them all looking happy, walking around the house he noticed that almost all of the property was redecorated now the house elves had done a terrific job.
Aside from Draco everyone was already in the kitchen and had started to eat, smiling Harry took a seat between Hermione and Dumbledore and took the plate that was offered to him by Dobby. Harry had just started to eat when Draco ran in.
"Sorry, I just got a letter from Blaise, she's home."
It was clear to see that Draco was relieved. The next minutes were spent in eating and general small talk when Dumbledore decided to ask about everyone's plans for the holidays and to inform them of the order meetings.
Harry looked at Hermione who nodded.
"I don't know about anyone else but I would prefer to have dinner here with just my family this Christmas away from curious eyes."
The others concurred for several members of the group this was going to be the first proper Christmas that they were all going to celebrate, Harry who had only seen Christmas at school and Severus who had never had a family to celebrate it with.
Minerva spoke up, "I take it that Nymphadora will be present as well as Miss Zabini?"
"My parents will also be here," Hermione added.
Dumbledore looked at the clock on the far wall, it was getting late and decided to call it a day, he planned for the children to continue to have some special lessons and training over the holiday period, Draco this time included. He also wanted to teach Hermione some meditative exercises that would help in bringing her memories of the attack back. All in all it was a peaceful end to the day.
(Next Scene)
Draco watched in amazement as Severus and Harry fought with their swords although he knew Harry was strong and powerful he never would have imagined him to fight so well. He watched as Harry pushed the older man into a defensive position before disarming him and ending the fight by outing his sword to his neck. He was further shocked when Hermione demonstrated her knife throwing skills as she hit target after target accurately. The last few days in the holiday had been a real eye opener as he watched his two friends training he could almost swear that it was if they were training for war, Draco snorted they probably were. Although he was powerful and prided himself in knowing several spells his skill was no where near the level that Harry and Hermione were at, although he was now getting lessons from Severus and McGonnagall in order to catch up with the two. He already knew from his letters to Blaise that she was receiving training from her family.
Draco though back to the lessons he had with Dumbledore he had never truly understood just how powerful the man was oh he knew that he had defeated a dark lord and that Voldemort feared him but to see first hand Dumbledore casting powerful spells as if they were simple lumos charms, made him respect the man even more. It wasn't just Dumbledore Harry seemed more powerful now than he ever was and he seemed to be different at school there was always something going on but here at Grimmauld Place the changes in his friend were more noticeable. The tattoo on his back for one was one such change he doubted the old Harry Potter would have ever got such a large tattoo.
Still he listened to what Snape had told him and didn't push Harry for any answers, he guessed that he would be told soon enough, at least he could show more patience then Weasel ever could. Just thinking about the Weasel made him sneer and the fact that he could possibly be in the house at order meetings with Hermione. He would just simply have to find a way to make his life difficult, Blaise had suggested that he contact the spitfire Ginny and the twins, who he knew were fairly loyal to Harry, perhaps if given the right sort of encouragement they could come to some sort of agreement. Draco had taken the advice and contacted the Weasley spitfire, the letter back had been encouraging and entertaining to say the least it seemed that the twins had gotten hold of it and simply said they would meet him at the next order meeting. Draco let his mind wonder on the thought of what he and the twins could come up with when he realised that Severus and Harry had finished their fight.
"Draco, are you ready to go over what I taught you yesterday?"
Draco nodded although he had received some lessons on fencing from Lucius he was nowhere near the skill level that the others where. Reason being that Lucius simply taught him the basics and how to look good as a Malfoy rather then any real fighting techniques. Draco grabbed his sword and got into position the sword he had was rather plain compared to the others, Severus had a sword which had the Snape family name and crest placed on it. Harry's sword was a work of art with the rubies on it but he hadn't been able to get a close enough look at it, although he had noticed that there was something carved on the blade.
Draco saluted Snape and started to defend himself from Snape's attack, he lasted for a few minutes before he was disarmed.
"Good Draco, you know all the basics and moves you simply need to refine your method off attack, now again."
Harry watched as Snape continued to fight with Draco, tiredly he wiped his face with a towel and sat next to Hermione whom was also taking a break she had decided to leave the sword fighting and continue with her knives. Harry knew Remus and Snape wanted to train Hermione how to use the knives in a combat situation where she would be fighting with her wand and knives. Hermione had thrown herself into the physical aspect of training with more eagerness than before, everyone knew it was her method of coping and the fact she said she never wanted to be in situation where she couldn't defend herself. As a result Dumbledore had discussed the possibility of having Kingsley train the children in basic self-defence. Dumbledore had decided to bring it up at the next order meeting. Harry sighed there was an order meeting planned that night and he wasn't looking forward to it at all on the plus side Blaise would be there and Hermione's parents were also coming and Hermione had been anxious to meet her family again. Remus was also going to back and would be staying at Grimmauld for the rest of the holiday he had been gone for a few days attempting to sway the werewolf population from joining Voldemort. The particular problem came from another strong werewolf who had rallied himself with Voldemort Harry didn't know what the werewolf's name was but he had seen Dumbledore's reaction and he looked concerned and angry. Still Harry reasoned he would find out more at the meeting.
"Knut for your thoughts?"
Harry looked at Hermione and smiled. "I thought it was a penny?"
"Umm but where are you going to find a penny here in the Black family home?"
Harry nodded. "Just thinking about Moony that's all."
"You're missing him."
"Just a little, but he'll be back tonight and I know that Tonks is eager to meet him too."
"Is Tonks going to be staying here?"
"I think so, why?"
"Nothing Harry, it's just we may have to be careful with what we say around her, you know. I mean I know you're telling Narcissa and Dray but lets be honest Tonks isn't exactly subtle if you know what I mean."
"Yeah that's why Remus is going to be really handy around to keep Tonks entertained."
Hermione finished putting her knives away carefully.
"Damn I could really do with some of my own… Why did Dray write to the twins?"
Now that surprised Harry as far as he knew Draco still wasn't keen on the Weasley family.
"Dray… writing to the Fred and George, you sure?"
Hermione sent Harry a mock glare. "Of course I am, Ginny wrote and told me, they're planning on meeting at the meeting tonight."
"Beats me."
(Next Scene – Voldemorts lair)
Voldemort smiled as one of his newest followers came down and bowed before him and kissed the hem of his robes.
"My lord."
"Get up Weasley, have you done as I asked?"
Percy straightened himself as he bowed again, his glasses almost falling in the process.
"Yes my lord, I've contacted my family and have convinced them that I have seen the error of my ways and wish to rejoin the family and have sided with Dumbledore and Potter."
Percy practically spat out the word Potter. Voldemort gave a sadistic smile.
"Relax Percival, we will both soon have our revenge. Tell me have you found out more about the order yet?"
Percy frowned, "Some, my lord mostly from my mother and Ron, I've learnt that there is to be a meeting tonight and that my mother is hoping to have the entire family spend Christmas at wherever Potter is staying."
"Good do whatever it takes to ensure you are invited and continue to send me all the information you learn on the orders activities. One more thing do you believe any more of your family can be convinced to see the errors of their ways and act as a pureblooded wizard should?"
"At this point of time, my younger brother Ronald."
"Ah yes wasn't he one time Potters best friend?"
"Not anymore my lord."
"Continue to encourage him to our way of thinking."
"As you wish my lord."
"Good, continue to work like you are and you will rise in my ranks, now leave."
Percy pompously bowed and walked out with his head held high. Lucius walked out of the corner of the room where he had been standing in under the shadows.
"My lord, I am confused, why do you seem to favour Weasley so much?"
Voldemort gave out a sharp laugh. "Its simple Lucius, Weasley is different from your self and the rest of the death eaters he isn't as strong as you all are and won't react well to punishment. However by showing him that I appreciate him, he is far more loyal to me. Percy needs authority, Lucius, he craves being singled out and favoured and will do anything to get it, much like he was when he was under Fudge. This way I can also get more spies around Dumbledore and Potter with him and his brother."
Lucius nodded as he understood his masters reasoning and turned to walk out, when he heard his master call him.
"Lucius next time do not question what I do…CRUCIO!"
End of Chapter
Well what did you think of that? Not as much action as the other chapters but the next chapter will hopefully make up for it.
As always thank you for the reviews they help so much! Thanks to my beta reader Bukama.
As for the sixth book well I both loved and hated it at the same time! How could she kill him off! Either way I will not abandon this fic like some other authors have. I plan to see this fic to the end and already have a plot worked out for another story but I won't start it till this one is done.
Author responses –Ears - There will be more on that on the next chapter
Drake Smythe – I read the book in a day I really couldn't out it down but the last chapter! Sniff every time I read it.
Jewel3 – He never used the Marauders map though did he? He got a vision from Hogwarts before he could get it.
Mrs C Lupin – Mooney will definitely be there.
The Magic Bringer – You will not be disappointed in the next chapter regarding the spy!
Bobmin356 – I saw it! Thank you so much I was so honoured!
Gryffindors – Umm interesting theory
Gecko549 - Next chapter I promise!
Hozmodem – Perhaps but in this fic, I've portrayed Dumbledore as a father/grandfather figure to Harry and not just a headmaster. Besides if you adopt someone you won't keep calling him or her by his or her surname would you. Thanks for reviewing.
PGHammer – Wow okay first things first the potion part is important and will come later, Harry Godrics great great grandson! Its been done so many times before felt I'd be different. Ron and Cho… umm why not they could call it Rejects Anonymous. Ravenclaws pride themselves on being logical to one Voldermort may have been the more logical winner after all who would you go far a strong powerful wizard or an old man despite what he's done. Harry's once again the golden boy of the wizarding world and with his change in looks comes across rather intimidating if he wants to. Also many aurors have never truly faced Tom but Harry has and survived that makes him a force in their eyes to be reckoned with. I had to get rid of the mark someway or another! Thanks for the reviews.
APS – How very true
Anon2 – Will consider andmail you, thank you for the review.
Rocky235 - Thanks for the reviews, Glad you took the time to read it, I checked out the bit about the FF and the notes from what I was told is that they don't like chapters which aren't actual chapters if you get what I mean they are just Author notes or a page of thank you's with no actual chapter. I'm trying the part about the change of view hopefully this will improve,
Zaptor – Thank you for the review, I am carefully considering everything you said.
Thanks to sillybit, David M. Potter, gizmama, jbcna, Treck, tokris, firelordeg, Shuddrani, azurina, HeWhoComesWithTheDawn, sarahamanda, Neshoba, Beth5572, athenakitty, taxzombie, bunk64, Insanitysplea, Bunny Skywalker, Makieus, beauty0102, Ezmeralda, kaiserzacc, PruePotter, rea, lost goddess of the shadows, the Triscuit, Chinese Miko, Aqua Mage, Hakkai - Gojyo - Goku – Sanzo, SlayerWitchGilmoreGirls,jabarber69, jltat, HecateDeMort, Lord Accius Black, michelline, Miss Blinx Too Much, jjeef185, Jules, Neo-Queen Serenity, josh2000, Jayde Green, Binnybobarino, icymist07, bobmcbobbob1, Monaki-cheung, aznchicki, tramp3834, azntgr01, Muirnin, dragon lair and unicorn lair, Delta T, Blue Werewolf Boy, AngelicVampiress, alwaysariyana, Duff-man, wieryn's daughter and Wulfric Gryffindor, LiLy MaLfOy13, chinesefireball6, Arianna, Shentaro, gtip6688, Sybylle, Jarno, Morfin1262, WebGuy, fern12, Jay UK and Grey8 for their reviews
As always please review and let me know what you think. One more thing just who do you think the Gryffindor spy is?
Chapter 22 will be a biggie!
What to expect – Order meetings, Christmas, revelations, murder and mayhem!