Chapter 38 – What? and then What? Some More

After talking about it with Hermione and Ginny for a few days, Harry was no closer to understanding the second prophecy than when the three had first heard it. The matter of the first prophecy was also wearing on Harry's conscience for some reason. He should have felt relieved that the prophecy about him and Voldemort might now be invalid but he had no such feelings. Tom Riddle had made so many appearances in his young life already that Harry didn't dare believe that the Dark wizard that had killed his parents was finally dead himself.

The last thing that any of the three Potters wanted to do was ignore either of the two prophecies but they felt the need to have some resolution about the matter. Hermione finally made a suggestion about talking to her parents about the wording and seeing if having a Muggle perspective would bring a clearer view. Harry thanked Hermione for the suggestion but thought that maybe it was the time for a Hearth warming party for their friends and relatives. Hermione was a little confused at first but Ginny caught on to the idea immediately. The only thing she asked her husband was whether the meeting with the adults was going to happen before or after the party proper. Harry said that it might be a better idea to get some counsel first before their classmates showed up.

A handful of owls were sent out Friday morning requesting the presence of some special people to attend an informal gathering. At breakfast on March 11th, a number of invitations also popped up in front of instructors and students alike. Harry handed the invitation to the Headmaster personally and whispered it might be a long afternoon for one reason or another.

The three Potters made some preparations the next day, asking the house elves to prepare snacks and drinks for the afternoon and finding space to place additional chairs and a couch in their living room. Just before three o'clock the first of the "guests" arrived at the Hearth. Myrtle and Joshua had been shown the list of invited guests and were told to make sure that no students were allowed in until after supper.

Sirius and Remus walked through the doorway first with Dee and Tony Granger. Hermione wasted no time rushing up the stairs to exchange hugs with her parents as the two professors came down to greet Harry and Ginny. Sirius asked why he got a formal invitation but Harry told him that it would be explained when all the first invitees got settled in. Sirius was more than a little curious about the vague answer but he waited patiently near the refreshment table and talked with Remus.

Dumbledore, Professors Flitwick, McGonagall, Snape and Narcissa Black were the next crowd of people to wander into the Hearth and Hermione went over to greet their guests and show them around. Arthur and Molly were the next to show up and it was Ginny's turn to charge up the stairs to hug her parents. Molly and Arthur found seats and were talking to Sirius about how the 'kids' were doing in school. Harry rolled his eyes at the overheard expression and was going to fetch a butterbeer for Hermione when the last of their guests arrive.

Harry didn't quite run up the stairs to meet Tonks, Madame Bones, and Lady Longbottom. He did get to the top of the short flights of steps while they were still looking over the small crowd. Harry welcomed the trio in and offered to show the older ladies around but they just said that they would settle in and talk for a bit with the Potter's other guests.

Tonks, of course, made a beeline for Remus as she felt she could get in a rare conversation with him as an adult. Having to treat Felicia Hampton as a regular student all the time made Remus a little uncomfortable with her in class. Harry saw that Remus and Tonks were soon laughing at some small joke or story about his adopted father.

Most everyone soon found seats and the level of conversations and noise in the Hearth soon grew as people started talking back and forth across the room. Harry was a little nervous about yelling at everyone to be quite as he wanted to get to the important discussions. Ginny of course, saw Harry's dilemma and reluctance and took care of the matter in her own subtle way. Climbing up on the nearest chair, Ginny straightened up and look to her mother. She only raised her voice a little bit. "I'm pregnant Mum."

Harry winced as the voice of Molly Weasley cut through and off every conversation in the room. Ginny winked at her husband and climbed down. "They're all yours, Harry."

"Thanks. A lot. Now that my seriously demented wife has scared everyone, including me, I have a few things to say. Number one is Ginny is NOT pregnant. Two, I've asked you all here to seek some guidance and support about something incredible that happened a few days ago. It affects me directly and anyone who doesn't want to be here for this discussion can leave now and come back for the evening party. I would like to start in about ten minutes and without trying to be rude, I would invite everyone to do their wandering, get their refreshments or to take care of any other business before then."

"How serious is this talk Harry?"

"Serious enough to warrant a wizard's oath from everyone before we continue. Which reminds me of two other things. I'd like to talk to Dee, Tony and Tonks for a minute or two. And Ginny is going over to apologize to her parents for scaring a couple years of growth out of them and me."

That got a chuckle from almost everybody else and Harry saw Molly's face change from frowning to smiling. Harry kissed Ginny on the forehead, turned her around to face her parents and sent her on her way with a small slap to the bum. Harry just winked at her when she looked over her shoulder at him and Ginny just shook her head before she approached her mother.

Hermione and Dumbledore joined Harry in the small corner where the Grangers had found some seats together. "Dee, Tony – I can't ask you to take a wizard's oath about this situation I'm in. I value your ideas and counsel as much as everybody else here. Hermione, Ginny and I would like to hear your take and ideas on all this but you would have to consent to being Obliviated about the meeting afterward. I just couldn't feel you would be safe otherwise."

Tony and Dee had one of those short staring conversations that couples develop over time and then just nodded. "We'll do whatever we can to help you out. You know that. It is safe isn't it?"

Dumbledore and Tonks both nodded. Dumbledore responded to Tony's question. "It's very safe and I, Amelia Bones or Tonks can cast the spell over you both after the meeting. Only those memories concerning the meeting will be taken from you."

"Thank you Headmaster."

"I thought I mentioned a few times that most of my friends call me Albus."

Dee stood up. "Then thank you Albus but you must excuse me now. My daughter has to show me the master bedroom and bath."

Harry leaned in and gave Dee a hug. "Good thing I made up the bed this morning then."

"I'd asked how it got messed but I don't think you'd tell me. Right?"

Dee laughed and rubbed her blushing son-in-law's messy hair before walking off with Hermione and a returning Ginny.

Harry tried to explain to Dumbledore, Tonks and Hermione. "I do have to stop giving her straight lines." Tony laughed and patted the seat beside him. "Let's talk for a few minutes Harry. I may have some ammo to give you against my wife."

Xxxx xxxx

Fifteen minutes later Harry stood up and looked around at his assembled guidance team. "There is an actual party that starts after supper and you're are all invited to stay and mingle with some of your relatives and the few close friends I always count on for support. But now for the serious bit. And no we're not here to talk about our assistant DADA professor, sorry Snuffles."

"Snuffles?" Snape asked out loud.

"I'll get you for that Harry" Sirius threatened.

Harry shrugged his shoulders. "We've come to the point that I require a wizard's oath from all of you about not revealing what I and the rest of you are going to talk about."

Molly was the first to raise her wand but the rest quickly followed suit in swearing never to disclose or discuss with outside people what Harry was going to disclose to them in confidence. Harry looked around and waited for the last of the magical auras the signified the oath was being magically enforced before he started speaking.

"Some of you have probably heard the story of how Professor Trelawney was taken ill this last Monday and Madam Pomfrey was summoned to take care of her. That's not quite the truth of the matter. Madame Trelawney issued another prophecy and Madame Pomfrey was the only one present to hear it. She summoned Dumbledore and the prophecy was recorded properly. The Headmaster has since told me that our mediwitch has voluntarily had her memory of the incident Obliviated because she felt she couldn't deal properly with the knowledge."

Madame Bones spoke up. "I assume the prophecy concerns you then Harry seeing as you're the one that wants some advice."

"Unfortunately yes. This one is just as vague and dire as the first prophecy was made about me. Yes, I'll answer the questions and tell you about the first prophecy in a bit. That's another part of the confusing future I face now."

"So what does the blasted thing say?"

"Ever the patient one Black" Snape said.

Before Sirius could reply, Harry had a banana cream pie from the table spinning in front of his guardian. A second pie floated ominously over the table in front of Snape and Narcissa. Hermione's voice addressed them both. "We asked you here to help us out. We can uninvite you if you wish to play games."

"Sorry Hermione."

"My apologies also. Please continue."

"The converse one of the lionhearted trine will soon become the fourth… The Chosen One will be a witness and participant in the rebirth of the Dark One…in the place of family death and memories… the vileness shall be awoken by imposture and blood… death and disasters will follow the Dark Lord because of the trickery …..The converse one in the lionhearted trine will soon become a fourth…"

Harry sat down between Ginny and Hermione as the people in their living room tried to digest the news. Ginny saw that her mum had clutched her dad's hand rather forcibly. The rest reacted in a variety of manners; everything from shock and anger to just calm thoughtfulness.

"Harry?"

"Tony, you had something?"

"If it wasn't for the rest of the prophecy, the first line could have referred to you, Ginny or my daughter. Each of you is a little converse to the others in one way or another. No that that's necessarily a bad thing. The fourth is puzzling; is there a significant magical fourth?"

Dumbledore rose from his seat and began thinking aloud as he paced. "There were the four founders which Harry is certainly a heir of at least two now. The fourth Headmaster of Hogwarts was…"

"Gilead the Lonesome" came a voice from midair.

"Vika!"

"I'm disappointed you didn't invite me Harry." There was a shimmering in the room and a semi-transparent image of Lady Hogwarts appeared behind the couch that Harry, Ginny and Hermione. Ginny jumped up to run and hug the spirit but just passed through her. Vika smiled at the group. "I'm not quite all the way back yet but thought I would try to at least make an appearance for this since it concerns Harry."

"You're more than welcome Vika. We've missed you."

Vika moved around and sort of sat on the arm of the couch next to Hermione. "I'm sorry for the interruption Albus. Please continue."

"Famous fourths? Hmm. There is a magical competition of sorts scheduled for next year but it only involves three people. I can't imagine any scenario that would include Mr. Potter as a fourth for that. It's conjectured that time is the fourth dimension but I don't think that that our talented Lord Potter is going to become the embodiment of that."

"There's Three Fates" Lady Longbottom said. "It would be quite a trick for Harry to assume a fourth post like that."

"And I'm ruling out becoming the next Wise Man, Stooge or Bee Gee. That's a singing group for those of you not current with muggle music."

"Let's skip the first line and get to the rest of the prophecy. I promise you Harry that the rest of us will continue thinking about you becoming the fourth."

"Thank you Professor Flitwick. I imagine most of you are almost upset as I am about the resurrection of Tom Riddle."

"Who?" came the question from more than one mouth.

Hermione smiled. "Tom Riddle. A half-blood wizard like Harry that has a serious power and control issue. He renamed himself after he graduated from Hogwarts fifty years ago. Lord Voldemort."

There were a couple of extreme responses from the people in the room. Professor McGonagall's lips tightened as if she was fighting the urge to spit or say something disgusting. Madame Bones shook her head angrily while Lady Longbottom just stared hard back at Harry.

"The Dark Lord that you've already defeated once" she simply stated.

Dumbledore looked to Harry and received a little nod. "Actually Augusta Harry has defeated Tom Riddle a total of five times."

"The last two with the aid of my two lovely wives" Harry stated over the uproar that Dumbledore's statement created. Harry saw that Ginny went over quickly to reassure her parents that they were still all fine and healthy.

"Before any of you ask, neither Dumbledore nor I have any idea how he keeps coming back. But it seems like he is going to try it at least one more time. I swear I will do anything in my power not to participate in whatever vile ritual or plan that Riddle has in mind."

"It mentions an imposter, blood and a place of death and memories. That last part could refer to the Department of Mysteries with its Death Chamber and Hall of Prophecy."

"That's a place we hadn't considered Amelia. It could also refer to an ancestral home, Voldemort's personal library, or any number of cemeteries scattered around England. There's any number of "places of death" we've tried to think about."

Snape spoke up. "An imposter could be anyone that could brew or have access to Polyjuice potion. Maybe an increase in the mental skill of Legilimency would be in order for you three to better detect and eliminate 'false' associates.

"But who could teach them that?" That question came from Dee Granger.

Dumbledore smiled. "Both I and Severus are experts in those areas. Either or both of us could instruct the three of them."

Harry groaned and pinched the bridge of his nose. "I have this overwhelming feeling that I'm heading for more detentions, aren't I?"

The nods from the present staff at Hogwarts made Harry groan again. Narcissa pointed to Hermione and Ginny. "And you two young ladies just signed up for advanced potions class under the direction of Severus and myself."

"How soon?" was the only question Ginny asked.

"We've all got a pretty full schedule already" Hermione said as she mentally reviewed their short areas of free time.

"Gryffindor's last Quidditch match is next weekend" Professor McGonagall volunteered. "Perhaps after that there will be sufficient free time for Mr. Potter after that."

"And I can share what I learn with them until get to their own instructions."

That seemed to meet with Dumbledore's and everyone's approval and Harry felt a little better that he had gathered these people together. Some suggestions had been made and he, Ginny and Hermione were going to be receiving some additional training to help them out in the future. The discussion continued on for the better part of an hour until everyone had their interpretations and suggestions stated.

It was after a much welcomed break that Harry's father-in-law spoke up. "Harry, I know how much you loath it but not everyone here has heard the first prophecy."

Looking at Arthur, Harry decided that everyone here had enough interest and care towards him to at least hear the other prophecy. He started twice but couldn't get the words out of his mouth. Ginny and Hermione leaned into him and he felt the love and support each was projecting to him. Nodding his head Harry started again.

"The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches... Born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies... and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not... and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives."

There were gasps and exclamations from the people who hadn't heard the prophecy about Harry before. Even Dee, who had been Obliviated along with her husband after hearing the prophecy before was teary eyed.

Harry stood up to address the group. "Before anybody starts feeling really sorry for me or planning a eulogy, there is some news about that. When Albus and I took the latest prophecy to the Department of Mysteries, we checked on the other one that Professor Trelawney made in 1980. That orb was...dark and inert."

"Unlit?" exclaimed Professor McGonagall. "But that means you're out from under that death sentence Harry."

Dumbledore held up a hand to hold back the good wishes everyone was going to make. "Congratulations for our young friend may be a little premature. Of course the orb being dark could mean that the prophecy doesn't apply anymore. Or part of it may no longer valid. Harry's second thought on the matter was that Voldemort was dead. At least temporarily and that the prophecy might reactivate if he manages to return to life. Again."

Harry sat down between his wives and they quickly grab up a hand apiece. The mood in the Hearth was somber and confused. There had been a lot of information, mostly bad, in a short amount of time and everyone there was thinking of what the prophecies could mean for the future of the young wizard. Vika suddenly slapped her hands together and stood up. "I apologize but I can't maintain this form much longer. It was nice seeing you all again because I was watching you all when you were students here. Mr. Black, you and I will have a little conversation soon about the pranks you and the other Marauders used to do. Some of the damage to the school has not yet been repaired."

Sirius seemed both embarrassed and offended that he had been 'outed' as a Marauder in front of this group as almost everyone was now staring at him. Madame Bones was almost rubbing her hands together in anticipation of asking her friend some very pointed questions. Both Professor Snape and Narcissa were trying very hard to contain their laughter at the face Sirius was making at Vika.

Vika made a small curtsey in the direction of Dumbledore and moved over in front of Harry. "Do you ladies mind if I have a moment?"

Ginny and Hermione let go of Harry's hands and moved a little sideways. Vika then amazingly perched herself sideways on Harry's knee and folded him into a hug. Harry heard a whisper in his ear and he felt goosebumps rising.

"You'll be fine Lord Gryffindor. These people will help you out as will I. It's been enlightening watching you and your ladies activities. I'm quite jealous of their happiness. Perhaps I can petition your wives to join your bed some night?"

Harry's mouth dropped open and Vika ruffled up his hair before disappearing back into thin air. Harry looked to his wives and just knew that Vika made sure they heard her message to him. Hermione had an eyebrow cocked at him but Ginny had a hand over her mouth trying to contain her giggles. Struggling to his feet again, Harry tried to think of a way to control the redness in his face. "Yet another female that seems to live to embarrass me; that's about all I have to say and I want to thank everyone here for coming and providing support and suggestions. You are all part of my extended family and I mean that."

Dumbledore rose again and came over to lay a hand on the host's shoulder. Harry got a reassuring nod from the Headmaster before Dumbledore turned and talked to the rest of the guests.

"I think the Potters would like a little privacy for a while. Anybody that wishes to come to my office and discuss the situation or wait around for one of our fine Hogwarts meals is invited to accompany me and Minerva. I'm sure those of you with family here would welcome the opportunity to go visit and talk with them. Thank you Lord and Ladies Potter for the invitations."

With that little remark, Dumbledore held out his elbow and Minerva took and they walked up the flight of stairs to exit. The rest of the visitors came by to hug and exchange goodbyes, temporary or not, to the three hosts. Molly, Dee, Arthur and Tony were going to find a place to sit and visit for a while but would come back after supper for the party proper.

It finally became Madame Bones and Lady Longbottom's turn to say goodbye before they went to visit Neville and Susan. Amelia did something unexpected; she hugged all three of the Potters and told them to be careful and take good care of themselves. Harry promised that they all had that as their highest priority. Amelia looked at them and then gave way to Lady Longbottom.

"That first prophecy" Augusta Longbottom started.

"Could very well have been about Neville" Harry said. "It was Riddle's choice to attack me first. And I don't know why; but I am glad my friend didn't have to live my life or face the troubles I have."

"You're a great friend to Neville Harry. All three of you are. You need to tell him all we've discussed here if you haven't yet."

Harry smiled. "That was the plan for after the party tonight. The rest of the Weasley's, Neville, Susan and a few others we trust will have the opportunity to swear a wizard's oath and find out what a mess part of my life is."

Lady Longbottom then went to one knee and looked up at an astonished Harry. "House Longbottom pledges it's help and support in whatever manner you want Lord Potter. You deserved nothing less from my grandson and I."

Harry and Hermione helped the House matron regain her feet. "Thank you Lady Longbottom. Neville has already pledged his support and I couldn't think a better man to stand with us."

"I won't divulge anything to him of course but I think it's time I reevaluated the kind of wizard my grandson is becoming. You're a good man Harry Potter."

Harry nodded his thanks and watched as Hermione escorted the two ladies up to the exit portal. She came back down and saw how tired her husband appeared to be.

"Aside from that little surprise that Vika gave you, I think that went very well."

Harry nodded and then looked up at the clock. "There's still a while before supper starts. Let's straighten up in here and think of what else we need for later. Ron's probably going to need a platter just for himself, even after supper."

Ginny plucked an empty butterbeer bottle from Harry's hands. "I've a much better idea. Let's all go cuddle for a bit instead before we head for supper and let Dobby do the cleanup later before he brings everything else in."

Hermione leaned a hand on Harry's shoulder and kissed his cheek. "We could even do it without our clothes Harry."

Harry's smile brought a grin to his wives. "That sound really good now. But I'm not getting undressed until I get in bed. I think someone's been peeking at us."

"You've got such a nice tush Harriekins" came a voice from out of nowhere.

Harry looked shocked but both girls started dragging Harry to the bedroom. "She's right you know" both girls said with a laugh.

Anything further Harry might have said was cut off by the sounds of snogging.

Xxxx xxxx

Neville was understandingly upset at the news that Harry divulged late that night but Susan Bones grabbed him by the hand and they disappeared into one of the side bedrooms. The rest of the three Potter's friends and relatives asked many questions of the trio. Ten minutes later, a less shaken Neville returned followed by Susan who was smiling. Harry thought for only a second before he and Neville exchanged a hug.

It was all of five seconds later before the both turned and fired hexes at Fred and George who had begun giving them catcalls and making kissing noises. A short but intense water balloon fight was held until Professor Lupin froze everyone in their places.

Harry judged the Hearth warming a success.

Xxxx xxx

The Potters finally resumed lessons to master the spell that would ensure their safety against Dementors. The first Monday session had been a lecture and explanation of the Patronus spell. Harry and his wives had spent a time after Sirius and Remus left discussing the spell and the safeguards that the two Marauders thought would be necessary for the spell to work for them. The primary caution was remaining separated themselves from the bond in order to diminish the effects of the Dementors from each other.

The second week Harry had been paired off with Sirius and Remus worked with Hermione and Ginny in a separate room trying to cast the spell. Each of the three met with disappointment and being overwhelmed by the two boggarts that had been spelled to take the shape and characteristics of Dementors. Time and again Harry tried the spell only to be overwhelmed by the feelings of helplessness, failure or doom. Even the consumption of the ever-present chocolate did little to keep each of the three Potters from becoming physically strained. Sirius finally called a halt to the evening when Harry had determinately dragged himself off the floor and stood wavering as he called for another round against the boggart.

The three Potters spent an hour just replenishing themselves with the bond magic when they returned to the Hearth. There was not a sexual thought amongst them but an enjoyment of being where all three felt where they belonged. Harry finally stated just before he drifted off to sleep that he would try using that 'happy memory' as the source for the Patronus spell.

Xxxx xxxx

The last Quidditch match of the year had Gryffindor against Hufflepuff. Oliver Wood gave a very impassioned speech about his last game at Hogwarts and how a decisive victory would let Gryffindor win the Quidditch Cup again. He also looked to Harry and said he hoped that the Hufflepuff seeker had learned a lesson about resorting to distracting tactics. Harry smiled and said that if Cedric Diggory changed to hot pants and a tank top that he would certainly NOT be distracted. That earned a laugh from everyone but George said that an outfit like that might increase the heartrate of at least one of the Chasers. All three of the female chasers buried the twin in wet towels for that cheek. Fred laughingly helped his brother out of the pile and the team left their locker room and mounted up.

The Puffs had already taken the pitch when Harry and the others appeared for their warmup laps. Harry and Cedric just nodded to each other as Harry flew past his position. Hufflepuff was just behind Slytherin in third place but could overtake the lead with a strong win over Gryffindor. The race was anything but secure but it also depended on what Slytherin did against Ravenclaw in the very last match.

Harry hovered on his broom and took a good look around as the Captains met with Madame Hooch. He didn't have to look far to see Hermione and Ginny as they were in the first row of seats as they had been during the other matches. They both sent him a mental kiss and he did a barrel roll in place to let them know he had felt it.

Madame Hooch blew her whistle and released the balls from the box. Harry had to immediately duck as a bludger flew right toward him. He turned around to watch it pass and then swung around again to see if he could see the Snitch.

Something small and incredibly fast hit Harry on the forehead and Harry released his grip with one hand to rub the spot. His hand automatically closed on the object as it fell. Harry looked down and saw something even he didn't believe. He had the Snitch!

Harry cut through the melee of players chasing down the Quaffle and came up on Madame Hooch as she was following the play. Harry tapped her on the shoulder and she swung around and got wide-eyed as she saw what Harry held. The whistle blew and everybody paused. Harry winced in embarrassment but held up the Snitch. The Hufflepuff section of the stands gasped in shock but Harry was almost lifted higher by the cheers coming from the Gryffindor part of the stands. Harry quickly dropped to the ground and was mobbed by his teammates and house friends.

The match had lasted all of 7 seconds. Final score: Gryffindor -150, Hufflepuff – 0.

It was much later during the celebration party in the Gryffindor common room that Ron broke through the circle of people that were listening to Harry explain that his part in the match had nothing to do with any skill but sheer, dumb luck.

"I was kind of sure about this Harry but I went back up to my room to check my record books. You set a record today for a non-professional Seeker. Only a few players have caught the Golden Snitch in less than 15 seconds. You're the fourth one to do it the entire history of recorded Quidditch. The fourth! Aren't you pleased?"

Harry had choked on the butterbeer he had been swallowing and it took both Ginny and Hermione a time patting his back to help him recover. Harry stared at Ron with just wide eyes for a number of seconds.

"He's just overcome with his feelings" Ginny finally said. "Harry's never expected to be the fourth of anything."

'Why don't I believe that it was only that?' Harry sent to his wives.

'It could mean the prophecy is truer than we think' Hermione responded.

"Just wonderful" Harry said out loud. Ron wondered why Harry didn't seem pleased.

Xxxx xxx

Harry had a couple days to ponder over the record setting or whatever that happened the Saturday before. He had apologized to Cedric on Monday but the other seeker just laughed it off. "Madame Hooch checked the Snitch and it hadn't been tampered with. It's just part of the game Harry. Sometimes the breaks go your way and sometimes they don't. We'll have a proper match the next time."

Harry had shook hands with the slightly older wizard and watched him walk away with Cho tucked under his right arm. They both turned and waved at him before entering the Great Hall for supper. Harry was joined by Hermione and Ginny and the set out for their third lesson on the Patronus charm.

"You seem a little distracted Harry. Focus, focus. You know the spell; just let me know when you're ready."

Harry was spending this evening working with Remus in the Room of Requirement. Sirius was working with Harry's wives in a deserted classroom down on the fifth floor. Harry was going to tell both the instructors that it didn't matter much how much the physical separation was; it was the mental shields that they were all maintaining that established the mental separateness they insisted on.

Harry was about to nod his readiness to be attacked again but he suddenly lowered his wand. "Can I have a piece of chocolate before we start Remus?"

"Harry?"

"I just thought maybe if I had the good feeling before I tried to cast the spell it might be more effective."

"I guess that's okay but you won't have time out in the real world to stop for a bite of candy."

"I understand that. I thought if I could produce the patronus once, it would get easier as I did it over and over again."

"That's generally the theory and the expected course of achieving the mastery of the spell. Here you go."

Harry took the piece of chocolate and put it up in his cheek and let it just melt there. He raised his wand again and nodded to Remus. Remus released the boggart. The form of the Dementor appeared, grey, swathed in black robes with boney arms outstretched. It hesitated for just a second and then began gliding toward Harry.

Thinking about a happy memory, Harry called out the spell. "Expecto Patronum!" A thin mist issued from the tip of Harry's wand and the boggart/Dementor paused for a second but then advanced.

Harry tried putting more magic in the spell and while the mist continued to form at the end of his wand, the Dementor advanced again. Harry could feel himself flagging and the silvery cloud dissipated. For some reason Harry thought not of the foe in front of him but of how Ginny would complain that he had wasted another bit of chocolate in another unsuccessful attempt. His mental shields dropped momentarily and he unexpectantly wondered how his wives were doing two floors below. He felt their magical presence for only a split second but then he saw his wand glow again as a significant bit of the silver mist appeared between him and the Dementor.

"Good job Harry; you're getting it!" The voice distracted Harry and he lost the connection and his focus. The Dementor pressed on closer and Harry almost fainted. He heard Remus issue his own command "Reddikulus!"

The boggart changed form and Remus forced it back into the large trunk again. Harry was panting on the floor, braced up on his hands and his knees.

"Much better Harry. You almost had a shield there! That's a wonderful improvement from last week."

"I was doing okay until I heard Mum's voice again. That and Tom laughing at us back in the Chamber of Secrets."

"You held off the Dementor longer Harry. Let me know when you want to try again."

Harry nodded and struggled to his feet. For a second or so he had been flooded with enough good feelings and confidence to make the spell function and generate the start of the patronus. He leaned against the nearest wall while he thought about what had happened.

And paused in thought as he realized what had triggered the resurgence of the silver mist even though it had only lasted a moment. It had been the magic- his and his loves. Harry cautiously lowered his shields and reached out with senses. He could tell where Ginny and Hermione were. He could 'feel' their magic and it filled him with a deep sense of contentment and and…yes, he would call it happiness.

"Again!" Harry straightened up and raised his wand again as he faced the trunk. Remus looked at Harry and wondered how he had recovered so quickly but he went and unleashed the boggart again. The Dementor rose up and seemed twice as large and menacing as before.

Harry concentrated on his happy memory but this time he allowed the passive contact with his mates to fill and reinforce his feelings.

"Expecto Patronum!" The time the silver mist erupted from his wand and formed a solid wall between him and the Dementor. It halted the Dementor and it seemed to slide sideways looking for a way around the barrier.

'Harry?'

Hermione's and Ginny's mental voices caused an immediate reaction. Harry's heart and magic surged and something erupted with a brilliant flash from the end of his wand. The Dementor was ripped to shreds as Harry's patronus lept across the room and through it. It happened in the blink of any eye and Harry and Remus stared in astonishment at what was now patrolling around the Room of Requirement. It was totally, totally shocking.

Remus and Harry both were expecting to see a stag as that was what James Potter's patronus was. Neither person expected to see the giant powerful creature that stalked around the room looking for its next victim. The patronus was almost fifteen long from nose to tail and just about 6 feet tall at the shoulder. The neck and head extended it almost 3 feet taller. The huge panther was sleek and muscular and the color of pure black and not the silvery color of other patronuses. There was a visible silver aura encompassing the giant feline though and it looked at the world through Harry's shade of emerald eyes. Remus felt himself take an involuntary step backwards as it came toward the spot where he and Harry stood.

"Harry, what in the name of Merlin is that?"

Harry was almost overcome with the beauty and power of the jaguar. Harry just whispered a few words to it. "Go get Ginny and Hermione."

The black jaguar cocked its head sideways as if listening for something and then turned and bound through the nearest wall. It was a jump of at least twenty feet and the patronus was still airborne as it disappeared through the wall. Harry fervently hoped that the beast wouldn't scare anyone to death or cause someone to jump off any of the stairways in fright.

Remus stared at the calm features of his friend's son. He started to speak once but Harry shook his head and seemed to be listening for something. It couldn't have been more than a minute later when the patronus came bounding back through the wall on a dead run toward Harry. He smiled and, as the huge beast lept at him, just pointed his wand. The patronus dissolved back into a silvery mist and re-entered his wand.

Harry asked the Room for a chair and just slumped down in tiredness. He was breathing hard but it was an expression of accomplishment rather than pain that appeared on his face. Looking up to Remus, Harry just waved his hands a little. "You'd best go get the door and open it. I'm not sure Ginny or Hermione will wait very long before they try something impossible to get in here."

"Like you three haven't already done the impossible already" Remus responded. He did hand Harry another big chunk of chocolate before he headed for the door. He had barely got it open before Ginny came tearing into the room at a full sprint and launched herself at her husband. They were still hugging and talking about what had happened when Hermione and then Sirius hurried into the room. Sirius was going to ask Remus what happened but he just pointed to the male component of the Potter family. Remus shrugged his shoulders by way of explanation and Sirius came over to see how Harry was doing.

"Hermione please forgive my language. Harry what in the hell was that? That… beast came barging into our session and told the girls to get up here. Ginny said it was your patronus before she tore out of the room and almost ran over Percy and Penelope who were passing by."

Harry smiled and draped his arms across the shoulders of his wives. "You were totally wrong about keeping ourselves separated from each other during the spell casting. I was almost overwhelmed again when I just noted Hermione's and Ginny's magical presence. Just the touch of their magic gave me enough of a boost that my positive feelings just produced that.. that. .. I'll let Hermione tell you what it is; I'm sure she can remember what it is as her and Ginny both discovered the reference to it."

Hermione smiled and gave Harry a kiss on the cheek. "When Harry was drained of magic in the Storm Room, one of the House elves here at Hogwarts found him a walking stick to help him get around. That walking stick turned out to be a Goblin Staff of Power that had been missing for generations. It had a lot of symbols, gems and runes infused in it along with some words in English and Gobbledygook. One of the English words that we had to look up was 'Rapa'. A creature that only Hagrid may know about."

"And.." Remus prompted.

Ginny smiled and continued the tale. "You saw it. A Rapa is a giant black panther that is supposed to live in the rainforests of South America. It stands about 6 feet tall at the shoulder and is reported to be extremely fierce."

"I can believe it" Sirius said. "I almost had to conjure up another set of clean pants and underwear when that thing came bounding through the wall into the deserted classroom we were using."

"Harry, do you suppose you somehow got imprinted by the form of the Rapa from handling that first staff or it was something that Wrotkill gave you when he healed you up?"

"I don't know Hermione. It's been such a long time since either of those things happened and I was just as surprised as Remus was when we saw it."

Remus waved his hand. "I'm kind of interested in knowing if the fair Mrs. Potters are going to conjure up a couple more of those incredible creatures as Patronuses."

"One way to find out I suppose. Either of you two want to give it a go?"

Both nodded excitedly and Remus and Sirius watched Harry 'relive' the experience with his wives. Both looked very surprised but Harry leaned into Hermione first and hugged her. Hermione watched where everyone was and then raised her wand and yelled out.

"Expecto Patronum!" The Rapa that appeared was only slightly smaller than what Harry had produced. The other difference was that the eyes of Hermione's patronus were bright yellow instead of the dark green. The Rapa made a circuit around the room and gave Remus some magical goosebumps as it passed close to him. Hermione cancelled the spell and her Rapa just dissipated into thin air.

Ginny's patronus quickly formed in the same shape and appearance as Hermione's. The eyes this time were glowing red and seemed quite sinister in contrast to the black form. Ginny couldn't quite hold in her cheer after the patronus faded away.

Sirius clapped his hands. "Well done. Well done all of you! That will be enough for tonight. We'll go and report to Dumbledore and we'll see you next week."

"What? Why? Huh?" came from three different mouths.

"I don't understand" Harry finally said.

"You've each produced a patronus, that's true. But what happens if one or two of you get stunned or incapacitated? None of you have thought about that and we may have to apply a little different type of separation when we continue. You need to be able to produce a patronus individually."

Hermione nodded first and then Ginny and Harry finally understood the difference between what they had just done linking together and something that they could do by themselves.

Remus spoke up as he saw the three faces drop. "Don't be disheartened. You've just proved you can produce a patronus. Not everyone can do that. And what you three just showed us is nothing less than absolutely brilliant. Sirius and I are both proud of you."

Harry looked over and saw that Sirius was nodding his agreement. He came over and gave each of the three a long hug and congratulations. The three Potter exited the Room of Requirement talking excitedly about their 'family' patronus.

Sirius and Remus just stood looking at each other and wondered what other surprises they were in for. They also had another question that seemed to come to mind at the same time.

"What kind of patronus did Harry Potter really have?"