Chapter 54 – Retelling and Reunions

Harry was very tired but it seemed only a matter of moments until the griffins slowed down and came into a landing close to where Ivis, Molly and Dee were resting. The Potters wasted no time in getting off their magical mounts and hurrying to see to their mothers. Molly seemed to very anxious as she tried to encompass Harry, Hermione and her daughter in one huge hug.

"I don't know what to say to the three of you. I am so proud and relieved of what you just accomplished and for once I'm not going to say you took some unnecessary chances. I love you all. Where's Sirius and Gracie; they didn't get…?"

"They took Sirius's emergency portkey back to Hogwarts. They didn't have much of a chance to get out of there a normal way. If you can call flying out on griffins normal."

Molly looked about to say something more but there came a weak call for them from Dee. "She's been hurt badly. Harry, can you three or Ginny do something for her?"

Harry shrugged his shoulders helplessly. He followed a frantic Hermione and Ginny to where Dee lay reclining against Ivis's side.

"Mum?" Hermione knelt down beside her mother and helped prop her up. "What hurts?"

Dee cracked an eye at her daughter and made an effort to smile. "What doesn't?" She broke off in coughing and groaned as her body shook. "It feels like I've grabbed an electric fence for about an hour."

Hermione looked over to Ginny. "Can't we do anything?"

"I don't know. I didn't think about bringing any potions with me. I'm not sure exactly what to do. I very sure however flying for a couple of hours wouldn't be good for her. Harry, do you want to hold her up and use one of the emergency portkeys?"

"Hold on that; there may be a better way." Harry took a couple of deep breaths to steady himself and then reached out mentally. "DAPHNE?"

"You're alive! Thank Merlin. What about Ginny and Hermione? The hostages? What happened?"

"No so fast; one question at a time. We're all okay more or less but Hermione's mum has been tortured with the Crutiatus curse. I don't suppose Dumbledore or Fawkes have come back to Hogwarts yet?"

"Not that I know of Harry. Why?"

"I need someone to transport her gently back to the hospital wing. I was hoping that might be Fawkes but maybe there's another way. Call out for Dobby. He should come to your call. Tell him what's happened and that we're about two hours almost due south. We and Dee really need his help. Go that?"

"Yes, if he doesn't respond should I go see Professor McGonagall or try one of the Hogwarts elves?

"Either one; just as long as somebody gets here for Dee."

"Okay Harry – I'll be back when I've got news. And Harry…?"

"Yes?"

"I'm really, really happy you, Ginny and Nonnie are coming back here."

"We are too. Don't forget to tell Madame Pomfrey about Dee's condition."

"Okay" Harry felt Daphne rush away to get to her tasks and turned his attention back to the ladies. "Daphne is going to send help."

Between Molly and Ginny, a couple cups of self-filling water goblets had appeared for everyone. Hermione was helping Dee take some careful sips; Harry was worried as she appeared very weak and her color was almost non-existent.

Harry went down and knelt by Dee across from Hermione. Dee looked at him and smiled. "How's my favorite son-in-law doing?"

"I'm a lot better now that you're out of danger. You really must stop taking these unannounced vacations."

Dee reached out to slap Harry but only could put a hand on his arm. "Thanks for the rescue. You and the girls. And these imaginary wonderful creatures."

"You're welcome. We're glad we could aid our friend."

Dee started when she heard Dulari's voice in her head. She also groaned as the movement brought more pain. Hermione looked at Harry and Ginny and they could see that she was very worried about her mother.

"We could stun her Harry; then she wouldn't feel much."

"That's a last resort; let's give Fawkes or one of the house elves a few more minutes. I don't think we should even try to inflict any more pain on Dee even if it is well-intentioned."

"Harry, I got hold of Dob-"

There was a solid pop of an apparition and a crying Dobby appeared before Harry and threw himself at his feet. "Dobby is a bad house elf. Dobby couldn't find or save Missus Graingey or Missus Weazey. Dobby will take Missus Graingey to Hogwarts and then go away. Dobby is a bad house elf."

Dee's weak voice sounded behind Dobby. "You will… do no such thing Dobby." Harry picked Dobby up and turned him around so he could see where Dee was leaning against Ivis. Dobby stood and dried his tears as he walked slowly over before Dee Granger. Dobby fell to his knees and begged Dee's forgiveness for failing her and 'Missus Hermione'.

"You didn't fail me Dobby."

"Be at peace little one. The place where the women were held had many strong wards and other spells to mask where they were. You are not to blame for not finding them. They are safe now."

Dobby's mouth dropped open in shock as he felt Dulari 'talk' to him. He looked up in awe as Hermione gently helped to his feet and brought him over to meet the griffoness. Harry wasn't part of the conversation between the most powerful and one of the smallest magic users but he could see the effect it had on Dobby. He stopped crying and stood straighter. After a few more seconds, Dobby nodded his head firmly and came back to stand before the still reclining Dee.

"Dobby will take Mrs. Granger back now. She needs healing that Dobby cannot do."

Hermione and Ginny carefully helped Dee to her feet and Hermione put her arm around her mother's waist. "She's ready Dobby."

Harry came over to give a careful hug to Dee. "You go with them Hermione and make sure that your Dad gets to Hogwarts as soon as possible. We'll be back with the griffins in a couple of hours."

Hermione smiled and kissed her husband. "Thank you Harry. Dobby can you bring Molly along too? I'm sure Arthur and the boys are almost spare with worry."

Dobby was about to nod but Molly suddenly spoke up. "You three go on without me. It'll be easier. Besides, if your friends don't mind an old lady coming along, I'd like to be able to ride along with you and the griffins before any of my sons get a chance to."

Dee chuckled which led to another groan from her. "Leave it to you Molly to try something totally so outlandish. I'll tell Arthur and your sons that you'll be along in a bit. Let's get going Dobby. For once, I'm the one that needs to see Poppy."

Dobby held out his hand and Hermione made sure she had a firm hold of her mother before she took Dobby's hand with her free one. The three disappeared with a soft pop. A few seconds later both Harry and Ginny visibly relaxed as Hermione told them that they had made it to the Hogwarts infirmary successfully. When they told the others Molly sighed deeply and leaned against a nearby tree.

"Mum?" asked Ginny as she became worried again.

"I'll be okay, just give me a second."

Harry shook his head and he and Ginny came up besides Molly. "Just for once Mom, you're going to accept something from us."

Harry and Ginny both engulfed Molly in a hug. There was a brief yellow glow that came from them and into Ginny's mother. Her eyes opened in wonder and she began smiling. "So that's what a magical recharge is like? Thank you both very much. We'd best get going if we're going to get back to Hogwarts by supper."

Molly kissed both Ginny and Harry and headed for the griffins. "Now all I have to do … is… Did I really volunteer to actually ride a griffin? Oh dear."

Harry and Ginny started laughing and they felt the griffins join in at Molly's sudden reluctance. Molly's eyes went wide open as she heard something addressed solely to her.

"Hello Ginny's mother. My name is Dulari and Iwould consider it a favor if I could carry you and we could talk on the way back. I would like to learn more about Harry's extended family and how you all get along."

Molly nodded as if in shock but found herself walking directly to the adult griffiness. She turned back to her daughter. "Ginny, how do I …?"

Ginny pointed and Moly gulped as the legendary creature went down to her front knees so Molly could climb up on her back. "Mind the feathers Mum; don't pull too hard on them."

Molly watched as Harry and Ginny mounted up on Taulso and Ivis and took to the air. There was a small startled cry from her as Dulari stood and then Dulari was taking a running start and started flapping her wings. Molly yelled out in amazement as she felt the griffin begin climbing off the ground.

Harry waved at Molly but she was too mesmerized staring at the head of her ride and the immense wings on both sides of her to do more than nod back at him.

It was Ginny that sent the message ahead. "Daphne, we're on our way back. Thanks for sending Dobby; Hermione is in the infirmary with her mother. You might want to let Hagrid know that four hungry griffins are going to be there in about an hour and half. We'll see you soon."

Xxxx xxxx

Daphne was beside herself with relief and hugged Crimarron after Ginny called out that they were returning. She had to go find Hagrid and tell him to bring out extra food for the griffins supper. She had to go see Hermione and get the story. She had to….

It wasn't proper for the Slytherin Ice Princess to run anywhere but as there was no one outside now, she risked an outright run up the path from the Quidditch pitch and applied cooling spells to herself before she entered the school proper. Calling out for Nup, one of the Slytherin house elves, Daphne sent him to inform Hagrid that the griffins were returning and would need a lot of food and water by suppertime. Daphne suddenly worried if the Weasley's were out of their tests yet but decided to go see Hermione first. She 'called' out for her friend and was relieved that Hermione wanted to see her as soon as she could get there.

It seemed way too long before Daphne pushed open the door to the infirmary. Sirius was talking to Madame Pomfrey and Gracie who was resting in one of the cots. She saw that Hermione's father was sitting on the bedside of his wife with Hermione standing beside them both smiling. Hermione looked around when she heard the door open and came running to embrace Daphne who couldn't quite believe she was crying now. "Don't cry Sweets – Harry and Ginny will be back here soon enough."

"I'm just too happy to say anything. I was really worried. There were Dementors and the Death Eaters and I was really scared you might not..."

There was a polite cough from behind Hermione's shoulder and Daphne opened her eyes to see Hermione's father looking at them a little worriedly. Daphne released Hermione and she turned around. "Your Mom's finally gone to sleep and will probably be out all night. Now where's this hero husband of yours and who is this pretty lady?"

Daphne blushed and that created smiles on Hermione and her father's faces. "Harry is flying back with the griffins and will be here in an hour or two. And this is our very good friend, Daphne Greengrass."

"It's nice to meet you Daphne. Thanks for helping out and sending the house elf to the Burrow to tell Arthur and I that our wives were coming back."

"It's the least I could do when I found out the news Mr. Granger. I know how much I was worried so I can't even imagine how bad it must have been for you and Ginny's dad."

"Please, call me Tony. I think you've earned that right as part of Harry's … er, sorry, what exactly are you to Harry?"

"I'm a very close friend of Hermione, Ginny and Harry. Officially, I'm a ward of Lord Gryffindor."

Tony rolled his eyes which caused Hermione to giggle. "Oh, poor Harry; surrounded by beautiful young ladies. You simply have to write us more often Hermione." Tony winked at Daphne while engulfing his daughter in another happy hug.

Daphne was still trying to figure out if Mr. Grang…Tony, was making fun of his daughter or not when all the Weasleys walked into the infirmary.

Hermione broke off from hugging her father and walked over to embrace her father-in-law. "Molly is okay. She's just a little battered and bruised like the rest of us."

Arthur looked around the infirmary. "So where is she?"

"I'm sorry Mr. Weasley but Molly didn't want to burden Dobby carrying too many people back here so she's coming back with Harry and Ginny."

"Oh" said a disappointed Arthur. The Weasley boys took that as their own signal to start peppering Hermione with a lot of questions about what went on and where their mother was exactly. Madame Pomfrey came up quickly and told the group that they needed to leave and let her patients rest. Hermione nodded her agreement with that. "How about we take this to an empty classroom and I can try to answer all your questions?"

"I would be interested in hearing that discussion myself, Lady Hermione." All heads turned to see Albus Dumbledore leaning casually against the door frame to the infirmary. "I can offer up the teacher's lounge since it's free at the moment."

Sirius insisted on staying with his adopted daughter but the students, Arthur and Tony followed Dumbledore through the corridors. They came across the Gryffindor third years returning from their Herbology final and the two groups mixed briefly while Hermione fended off a variety of questions about her and her spouses' whereabouts. Dumbledore spoke up and told the students that the Potters were unfortunately delayed on a personal matter and would have to make up their missed exams at a later date.

Daphne frowned as she thought about the Ancient Runes exam she had missed that morning and the History of Magic final that the Slytherins and Ravenclaws were probably just finishing now. Hermione, Ginny and Harry still had to make up the History of Magic and Herbology finals they missed while rescuing their relatives. Daphne knew Harry and the others wouldn't use their heroics as a reason to ask for a cancellation for those tests.

Tony pulled Hermione aside as the rest continued on their way. "Now that Dee is back and everyone else is out of danger, we need to have a serious talk about things young lady."

"I know Dad. Harry, Ginny and I had a long talk about our own about what to do to make sure nothing like this ever happens again. I don't want to seem like we're putting you off but could the talk wait until Mum has recovered and we've finished our finals?"

Tony nodded and then crushed his daughter in another big hug. "Of course, sweetie. Think this discussion with Dumbledore won't scare me too much?"

"I hope not. It's all over now anyway so just remember we didn't have much of a choice in going to the rescue."

"I really appreciate what the three, no four, of you have done. I've already promised Sirius a couple of good bottles of brandy for his part of it. I'm just so relieved and happy that you, your mother and everyone else are getting back safely."

"We'd best get caught up to the others. I don't think Harry would like to talk about this day's work." Hermione slipped her arm around her dad's waist and they hurried to catch up with the others It was only a couple of minutes until the six students and three adults found themselves seated in the teacher's lounge. Before asking Hermione about their adventures, Dumbledore told everyone about the state of the Ministry building and the floo network.

"It was an audacious attack on the Ministry of Magic building this morning. Fawkes and I ported into the building itself and found our way into the Department of Magical Transportation. The three night workers there had evidently been attacked just before dawn. Two were killed outright and a third stunned. The person or persons then dismantled the magical controls of the floo system and left. On their way out of the building one of the Death Eaters, Bellatrix NoName, got into a heated firefight with Walden McNair."

"The executioner?" Daphne asked. "What was he doing there at that hour?"

"When Mr. McNair was revived, he stated that he had come in very early to review the execution appeals that had been piling up on his desk. He had the unfortunate luck to meet Bellatrix exiting. The two fought briefly and Mr. McNair received more than a few curses and hexes as a result of the duel. Bellatrix finally magically pulled a wall down on him, burying him and knocking him out. That's at least what was his story was."

"So what about the Dementors?" Percy asked.

"Bellatrix seemed to be in control over them. She was seen atop a neighboring building to the Ministry of Magic shouting out orders in a strange language via a Sonorous charm. She apparated away when the Aurors finally tracked her down and surrounded her. The aurors didn't find any sign of the other escaped Death Eaters. The Dementors lost their focus at that point and fled out of the area."

"Wow, a real…"

"…attack on the Ministry." Fred finished for George.

"I supposed I should go and report in" Arthur said.

Dumbledore shook his head. "You won't have to do that Arthur. The aurors are making a thorough sweep of the whole building and the Unspeakables and other employees of the Department of Magical Transportation are restoring the floo network. Minister Fudge has chosen to suspend operations for the day until the floo system is fully restored. I would expect that the whole security system and the DMLE will be undergoing a full review in the next couple of weeks."

Both Hermione and Daphne saw the relief on Arthur's face about not having to report in to work today. He would be more than happy to collect his wife later and have some family time before he and Molly returned to the Burrow.

"And now Mrs. Potter, I would like to hear your report on your activities at the Cavern of Doomed Souls. Minerva told me about the contents of the ransom demand that was delivered to you. I am sorry I was not here to provide some counsel or assistance to your family."

"That's okay Headmaster. Between Professor McGonagall and Sirius we developed a pretty good plan. I don't have to tell you that Harry would prefer that nobody here in this room spread the tale of what happened."

As everyone nodded, Daphne 'told' Harry and Ginny that Hermione was reporting to Dumbledore and the Weasley's about their mission. They both said that they would listen in and might take up the parts that Hermione hadn't witnessed.

"We told Professor McGonagall about the letter and we were talking about what we might do when Sirius joined us. We talked a lot about strategy against the Dementors and the escaped Death Eaters for over an hour with them, Draco, and Daphne here. The two Slytherins were a big help in our planning."

Percy spoke out at the mention of Draco's name but Hermione stated that his presence was one of the conditions for the release of the hostages. "It wouldn't be fair to no include him in at least knowing about the demands."

Mr. Weasley just nodded and indicated for Hermione to continue. "Not that we couldn't stop Sirius from going with us right away but cooler heads prevailed and we had to lay out some strategy to deal with what was obviously a trap. The griffins volunteered to take us close to the Cavern so we got there a lot faster than just flying our brooms."

"Harry came up with the idea of impersonating Draco when we got to Mithril's Myre. Sirius added the idea of "Draco" turning on us to confuse Mr. Malfoy and the other Death Eaters. He certainly did a wonderful job of insulting us and treating us like Draco did during our first year here. It kept Mr. Malfoy and the others from immediately attacking the hostages or us."

"Hermione, the rumor going through the school is that four people took off on the griffins. Are you saying Harry or Draco wasn't with you?"

"No Fred. Harry cast a very good illusion of Draco jumping on one of the griffins at the last second. That illusion disappeared when we were out of site of the castle but Harry cast it again when we finally landed near the Mire. But this time when we followed the path to the Cavern it was Harry who was the illusion and Draco was really Harry in disguise."

"That sounds complicated. Obviously Harry had to use a lot of power to keep that illusion up."

"Right Mr. Weasley. I'm sure he's going to sleep very early tonight. I'm pretty sure we all are; we've still got exams tomorrow."

"You just had to mention that" came the groan from George. "Our Owl in Charms is scheduled for tomorrow morning."

"If you don't mind my speaking, I think that all of you would be able to concentrate better on your exams now that you know your mother is safe."

Dumbledore nodded at the remark. "Miss Greengrass does have the right idea there. She and Lord and Ladies Potter will have to make up the pair of finals that they missed today."

Daphne and Hermione both heard the mental "Nuts" that came from Ginny and had to work to keep from smiling.

Mr. Weasley asked the next question. "How well was the Cavern guarded? There are rumors of a number of protections that would stop almost everyone from getting to the home of the Dementors."

Hermione mentally shuddered and chose that moment to pick up her father's hand to hold. "Let's just say it's very well-guarded path and no one in this room would or should voluntarily go back through that path and trials again."

"Is that statement going to satisfy your dad Hermione?"

"Probably not but any further explanation will have to wait until you two are with me Harry."

"Okay, we're more than two-thirds back. I hope you and Daphne are going to meet us."

"Certainly."

"So what happened next?" Ron asked.

"When we got through that swamp and to the center where the Cavern was, we found Mr. Malfoy and four other Death Eaters waiting for us."

"That means that Bellatrix was probably alone in invading the Ministry then." Dumbledore turned a worried glance at Arthur but he was concentrating on Hermione's words.

"Mr. Malfoy was in the center of the clearing with Pettigrew and Dolohov standing just off the corners of the Cavern mouth. We saw that Molly, Dee and Gracie were unconscious and lying real close to the mouth of the Cavern. The two Lestrange brothers came out of hiding at that point and surrounded us. It didn't look very good for us but then 'Draco' turned on us, stunned the false Harry, and made us drop our wands."

"You relinquished your wands?" Percy said in shock. "But that left you defenseless!"

Fred and George snickered at the look on their brother's face. "Really Perce, how stupid do you think they are? They wouldn't give up their real wands."

"Real wands?" Ron said. "Oh, I get it. You three had fake wands to toss away to throw off Malfoy and the others."

"Good Ron. Once we had been supposedly rendered helpless, Draco insisted that Ginny and I checked on our mothers. Mr. Malfoy was all too happy to have the five silly females in one spot. He then began to gloat and went over to where 'Harry' was lying helpless on the ground."

"But not the real Harry right?"

"Right Mr. … Arthur. You can imagine how surprised Mr. Malfoy was when he cast the killing curse and it went right through his intended victim."

"And what happened then? I imagine Lucius turned and cast spells at anyone he could see."

Hermione smiled. "If he could have seen anything Headmaster, he might have." Seeing the confused look on almost everyone's faces she went over to where Fred and George were sitting and gave them both a good hug. "I wish I could award house points to these two but they may have to settle for some sort of monetary reward from the Potter family."

"We'll take that." Fred quipped.

"What did they do?" Arthur asked a little warily.

"Aside from the very realistic fake wands that they gave us, they also gave us some samples of their latest inventions. We decided on using one that the Death Eaters would never have expected."

"What?" asked Ron.

"Gentlemen?"

Fred and George both looked around the room "Where? Okay, in spite of that horrible insult Mrs. Potter, we will divulge one of our trade secrets. The 'Spontaneous Sandstorm' generates a 12 foot globe of high wind and sand to block anybody's sight for about twenty seconds."

"It only lasted 15 Fred seconds but it was long enough. Ginny and I grabbed our mothers and used our bond magic to take our mothers to where we left the griffins. We were going back to get Gracie and help Harry and Sirius but we were told to stay where we were. We're not quite sure what happened next but Dulari insisted we mount up and return to the Cavern with her and two of the cubs. Evidently Mr. Malfoy released a swarm of the Dementors. When we got there, Sirius had just used the emergency portkey he had to get him and Gracie back here. Harry's patronus was keeping the Dementors away from him but the three griffins chased all the Dementors back into the Cavern. Taulso landed so Harry could fly out on him and that's about the story as best I know it."

"What happened to the Death Eaters?"

"Harry said that as far as he knew only Mr. Malfoy escaped from that clearing. Harry stunned Peter Pettigrew and sent him back here all bound up. Oh, I never thought to ask about him. Professor?"

"Mr. Pettigrew has been immobilized and placed somewhere where he can't shift back into his animagus form. I sent a note off to Madame Bones about recovering her prisoner as soon as things settle down at the Ministry. Mr. Weasleys?"

"Yes sir?" Both Fred and George answered together.

"Take a dozen points apiece for aiding family and house members so successfully. I trust none of those Sandstorms will appear in the school or around the school grounds?"

"No sir." Arthur seemed proud of the help the twins had given Harry and the others in rescuing their mother and the others. He went over and gave each a hug.

Dumbledore smiled. "You also might consider having Lord Potter demonstrate that invention to Madame Bones. The DMLE might want to add that to the supplies the Aurors carry around. There might even be a Ministry contract in it for you if they prove to be useful."

Ron turned around and congratulated the duo. "We just were trying to help Harry out" protested George.

Hermione beamed. "It helped out immeasurably. Thanks again!"

Just then Daphne's head rose sharply and she and Hermione grinned and hurried out the doorway together.

"What do you suppose that was about?" Percy asked.

"I think the two young ladies just realized that the returning hero and heroine are closer than they thought. I think we should join them down at the Quidditch pitch."

The group hurried out of the teacher's lounge and received many stares and followers as they followed in the wake of the two young witches.

Xxxx xxxx

Ginny was tired from the day's activities. She was also happy that they had succeeded in the rescue. But, right now, she was also very worried about Harry. He had been unusually silent for the last half of the flight back to Hogwarts and only responded with short answers when he had been talked to. She wasn't sure whether he was tired or emotionally wrung out from the stress of the day. Those were her two best guesses but with Harry being in one of his quiet moods, she and Hermione might not know what was actually on his mind until they all got back to the Hearth. She mentally added Daphne to that discussion and wondered if it was time for her and Nonnie to offer 'overnight accommodations' for their possible future spouse. There would be no extraneous activities tonight and Harry would probably appreciate an extra body cuddling with him.

Ginny was dragged out of her own thought processes by the mental greeting of Shadhan who had come flying out to meet his mate and offspring. Ginny saw Harry smile as he watched the huge griffin do some fancy flying around Dulari and her Mum. The two females seemed to have had a good private discussion for most of the way back but Molly was eyeing the big circling griffin a little warily. Ivis warned Ginny about hanging on and she and Taulso proceeded to pull off a few fancy maneuvers of their own in flying with Shadhan. Ginny saw that it seemed to lift Harry's mood a little and he waved back at her when they swept underneath Taulso.

Harry shouted and pointed out Black Lake just a little ahead of them and Ginny felt Ivis put on a little more speed in finishing the last part of their journey. Both Ginny and Harry saw a number of people coming down the path to the Quidditch pitch and quickly recognized the redheaded group that was ahead of most of the rest of the gawkers.

Dulari landed first with Molly but Ivis, Jaunee and Taulso weren't very far behind them. Shadhan took one more lap around the grounds but it was obvious that he was happy to see everyone return; he made a very low pass over the gathering students and let out a roar that made almost half them duck or dive for cover.

The Weasley family was waiting patiently for Molly to move away from the griffiness. She walked a few steps away from Dulari but held up her hand to stop her family from advancing. She turned back to Dulari and made a formal curtsey and thanked her for allowing her to have such a memorable ride and talk. Dulari bowed her head back in return and watched as Molly was soon engulfed by her family.

Molly gave hugs to everyone and a great kiss to her husband. She put off answering any and all questions but held out her hand to her husband. "There's somebody I'd like you all to meet." With Arthur in hand and the four boys following close behind Molly returned back to in front to the reclining griffiness. Molly prompted Arthur and then the whole family bowed to the magical creature. "Dulari, this is my family."

Dulari made sure that she met the eyes of every individual before her. Ron gulped a little nervously as he saw the sharp beak and claws and remembered that these friends of his sister and Harry could actually destroy a Dementor. He was surprised to hear a gentle voice in his mind.

"There is no need to fear me and my pride as you are related to our liege friend. Molly, your family has kind and valorous hearts. You are right to be proud of them."

The four boys weren't exactly sure what they should do next but Arthur stepped forward and went to one knee. "I wish to formally give thanks to you and your kin for helping rescue my wife and other relatives. Clan Weasley pledges it's aid if you should ever need it from this day forward."

"Thank You. You are likeways endorsed as friends to the griffins."

Harry and Ginny had been watching this exchange but they were suddenly engulfed by a pair of crushing hugs by Hermione and Daphne. Both of the flyers were swung around and Hermione gave Harry a kiss that brought catcalls from the spectators. Daphne released Ginny from her hug and stopped herself from jumping into Harry's arms. Mindful of the watching crowd and Harry's raised eyebrow, Daphne just dipped her head as she approached the tired wizard. "Done skiving off on this excellent afternoon?"

"I suspect so; it was kind of boring doing a patrol with Dulari."

"I see you picked up a hitchhiker along the way." "I can't wait to get back to the Hearth and give you a proper snog for coming back."

"We were kind of in the neighborhood, and Molly wanted to come yell at Ron in person." "We missed you too Sweets."

There was a tap on Daphne's shoulder and she looked and saw Tony smiling at her. "Sorry, but I'm just going to pull rank for Harry's attention for a second."

Daphne took a step sideways and both she and Harry were surprised when Tony picked Harry up in a big hug and swung him around laughing. "Thank you Harry. I was so worried you wouldn't succeed and I'd lose everybody I loved."

"You can thank your daughter and Ginny too. It was a group effort with the griffins; Sirius and the twins make contributions also."

"I've heard."

"How's Dee?"

"She's going to have a rough couple of days but Poppy said she should make a full recovery. I'm sacking out in the infirmary until she's released."

"You're welcome to come to the Hearth for one of the spare bedrooms or go to Potter Manor."

"Thanks but I'd rather stay next to Dee."

"That part I really understand. How about supper with us in the Hearth later? 7 sound about right?"

"That I'll agree to. I'm going back to the infirmary now and talk to Poppy some more. I'd like to learn more about what Dee went through from Poppy."

Tony patted Harry on the shoulder again and swept Ginny up in a swift hug as he went by her. Harry watched him fall in with the departing Weasleys and was glad the day had such a good ending. Ginny and Hermione had come up to stand next to Harry and mentally checked on how he was doing. He was about to give the standard answer of 'okay' when Dumbledore approached them.

Dumbledore stared at the trio for a number of seconds before he smiled broadly. "I am so proud of the three of you. What you did was most impressive and the report from Lady Hermione might get you all a Meritorious Service Award from the Ministry."

Harry shook his head. "I am really not interested in receiving any award for stepping up to guard and protect my family. If Minister Fudge wants to have some big public ceremony, he can honor those that died at the Ministry. I don't want any spotlight. I would like to ask you for a favor though."

"Certainly Harry. What might I do for you?"

"I'll assume Madame Bones will be coming along to collect Wormtail. Could I use your pensieve for my memory of the… encounter. I'm not sure I'll be able to talk about this day for a long time."

"Of course Harry. I'll send a house elf if and when she shows up. I imagine you'd like to go get some well-deserved rest now though."

Harry grinned weakly. "You have no idea sir."

"Go take your ladies and recuperate then. I'll tell Minerva to post an announcement near your door that you are not to be disturbed. With the exception of family of course."

"Thank you sir. I'm not sure we'll be up in time for supper but we will be taking our exams tomorrow."

"I expected nothing less. Good evening Lord and Ladies Potter."

Dumbledore turned and walk away through the rapidly disappearing crowd. Hermione and Ginny linked supporting arms around their husband and started leading him up to the school. They had only gone a few steps when they saw another encounter. Astoria Greengrass was almost in a froth as she vented her frustration and anger at her sister. "Where have you been hiding all day? I went to look for you at lunchtime and you weren't anywhere to be found. I even showed up at your afternoon test and was informed you had been absent all day. What's been going on with you and Harry and everybody?"

Ginny giggled suddenly. "I guess I'm up for one more rescue for today. Daphne and I will catch up to you in a bit." Ginny leaned up to give Harry a kiss and whispered something in his ear to make him blush. She hurried away to catch up with the two Greengrass girls and Harry saw Ginny cast a privacy ward. The three young ladies went up the path to school with Ginny and Daphne explaining to the first year what exactly had been going on.

"I suppose Tory is going to blame me for this mess" Harry quipped.

Hermione smiled. "If she tries she's going to meet a lot of students that are going to start calling her Metrice."

"You are quite diabolical when you want to be Nonnie."

"Only when defending my wonderful husband Jamie. Let's get you back to the Hearth for a well-deserved kip."

Xxxx xxxx

Harry flopped back on their bed and didn't protest when Hermione took off his shoes and socks. He stared blankly at the ceiling in the Hearth while his wife patiently waited for him to speak. She was still waiting when Ginny, Daphne and a very contrite Astoria entered the bedroom.

"Harry, I wanted…" Astoria stopped when she saw that Harry was almost motionless on the bed. "Is he okay?" she whispered to her sister.

Harry groaned just a little bit but rolled over to one side to face Astoria. "Just a little tired and saddle sore from riding for half the day. How did your exams go?"

"I'm pretty sure I did okay but I'm sorry to hear about the kidnapping of Gracie and Mrs. Weasley and Granger. I wouldn't have gone off on my sister like I did if I had known what you all were doing. I've already apologized to her and Ginny; I wanted to say I'm sorry to Hermione and you. I'm really glad everybody got back ok. I'm going down to the infirmary next to see how Gracie and Mrs. Granger are."

Harry nodded and smiled. "Okay. I think they would like to see you but I'm not sure if Dee is going to be awake. Maybe you could introduce yourself to Tony, Hermione's dad. Daphne, are you satisfied with her apology?"

Astoria's mouth formed a little circle of apprehension as her sister held a hand up to her chin and thought about it. "I'm not sure Harry; she said some pretty nasty things about me and you."

The younger Greengrass blushed and started sputtering. "But I .. I didn't mean.. anything. I saw you and Ginny get off those griffins. I… what else do you want me to say or do guys?"

"Neither Lady Greengrass or either of my beautiful wives are guys Astoria. Ginny, do you and Hermione agree on the punishment I'm thinking about?"

"Yes!"

"Definitely"

"Daphne?

"It might be a little strain on her but she is your ward and must obey you."

Astoria now looked very anxious but just hung her head. "All right, whatever you want. What humiliating thing am I going to have to do to apologize to you four for jumping to conclusions?"

Harry crooked a finger and Astoria moved slowly to the bedside. "What you have to do for verbally assaulting your sister in public… Is to agree to come to the Graduation Ball with us four Sunday night."

Astoria stared at Harry for a number of seconds and then looked around the room at the other three girls. All were smiling and nodding their heads and Astoria jumped and squealed. She jumped on the bed and hugged Harry around the neck but moved quickly back off. "Wait, I don't have a good ball gown or dress that fits me anymore. I'm sorry; I wouldn't want to embarrass you any more than I have already. Thanks for the invite though."

Daphne came up to hug her sister. "We're all going shopping first thing Saturday. Please ask Madame Black if it's okay for you to go shopping with Lady Gryffindor and Lady Slytherin."

"My treat" Harry announced with a yawn.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Astoria ran around the room giving hugs to Daphne, Ginny and then Hermione. Hermione grabbed her hand to stop her from leaving the Hearth and running to tell her friends.

"If you three don't mind, I'm going to go back to the infirmary and spend some time with my Dad."

Harry, Ginny and Daphne nodded and asked the two of them to give their best wishes to Gracie and Sirius if he was still there. Hermione and Astoria left talking about favorite colors and different styles of robes and gowns.

"Please send a wakeup call up here when you start returning so we can look respectable for Tony and supper."

"Got it Jamie. He wouldn't care if you were naked but I know you do."

Harry heard the doorway close as the two girls exited the Hearth and sagged back down prone. Ginny hopped up on the bed to run her hands through Harry's locks. "Now will you tell us what's been bugging you for the last hour or so?"

Harry saw the look in Ginny's eyes that she wouldn't settle for anything less than an honest answer. "I've just been wondering where and when all this… drama and pain stops. Every year I've been here at Hogwarts, either I or someone I really care about has been attacked by Riddle or his Death Eaters. And the 'help' from the Ministry has been less than ... comforting. How long do I wonder if somebody else I love is going to end of dead? It's a lot to take some days not to push everybody, and I do mean everybody, away until Riddle and his followers are all gone or… they succeed in killing me. We could have loss Molly, Dee and Gracie in the last couple of days. I'm not sure I could stand it if something permanent happened to…"

Harry was crying unashamedly by this time and tears were rolling down his cheeks freely. He sobbed once as if it was the last breathe he might take and Daphne wasted no time in joining Ginny in hugging and comforting the man who bravely took on the weight of the Wizarding World on his young shoulders. It was many minutes of whispers, rocking and comforting hugs and small kisses before Harry regained some emotional control over himself. "I'm so sorry; I'm supposed to be the strong one."

"You're always my rock and comforter when I'm scared Harry" Ginny said as she dried up the last of Harry's tears. "You've had a very long day and you're allowed to have some release over everything that's stressed you out."

Daphne smiled at her present and future boyfriend and consort and kissed the end of his nose gently. "Harry, I would be scared of you if you were this big unfeeling clod. Merlin knows I've had enough experience with those types of wizards in Slytherin house. You're a fine caring wizard that would do anything to protect the people he cares about. Today proved that to me and all your family. Not that we didn't already knew that. You are overwrought and tired mentally and magically right now. But you have to remember that Hermione, Ginny and I will always be here to give you whatever you need in the way of emotional or other support. We are never going to leave you and will always back you up or be whatever you need us to be."

Harry closed his eyes for a few seconds and Daphne saw some of the life and joy in his brilliant green eyes when he opened them again. He pressed Ginny's head to his chest and reached out to return the kiss to the end of Daphne's nose.

"You are both right and I love you even more when you take care of me like this. I know I'm going drop off in slumber in a few more seconds but I was wondering if both of you wouldn't mind staying and cuddling up with me until I go to sleep?"

Daphne nodded enthusiastically at the invitation but Ginny rolled quickly out of bed. "As much as I want to do that Harry, I've got to go take a shower first. I love the twins and the inventions they make for you but I'm definitely not going to tell them my complaint about their latest one."

"What was wrong with it? It sounded like it worked perfectly."

"The problem with the Spontaneous Sandstorms Daphne is that the sand…"

"…grains get everywhere. And I do mean everywhere. Thanks for reminding me Gin. Now I'll never get to sleep with all this chaffing." Harry rolled out of bed and started unbuttoning his shirt. Daphne slapped his hands away and made quick work of unbuttoning his shirt. Ginny had come over and had worked on his pants and Harry was somewhat surprised how quickly he was reduced to just his boxers. He headed tiredly toward the shower but was halted when Ginny and Daphne called out to him.

"Don't you dare start without us Jamie" came from his wife.

"I promise I won't grope you too much when I'm washing out all your nooks and crannies Harry."

Harry's half closed eyes went wide open as he watched Ginny and Daphne swiftly strip down and head for him naked. He tried to say that he wasn't asking Daphne to come shower with them but the Slytherin just shook her finger at him.

"You can't stop me from volunteering and I'm not expecting anything more than… How did Nonnie say it? Good cleaning fun. Come on Harry, I'll let you wash my bum first. Then I'm finally going to get my hands on yours."

Harry was too tired to protest again anything at this point so he let the blond and the redhead lead him into the shower. Fifteen minutes later, all three were totally clean and sleeping all cuddled up naked on the bed. That's where Hermione found them later after her alarm charm failed to wake them up. She regrettably shook her head as her father was waiting out in the living room for them. Hermione began carefully to wake up the three smiling teenagers.

xxxx

(A.N. I solemnly promise that I will wrap up this marathon of a story in the next chapter. I just can't seem to bypass the details. Thanks for hanging in there. Captain Compass)