A/N: Harry Potter and his world belong to J.K. Rowling, Warner Brothers and anyone that has received licensing rights. I am grateful she gives us the privilege of playing in her world.
A/N2: Long chapter, but this is the third rewrite and it is what it is with the other flow I had already planned. Enjoy.
Chapter 27
June 15, 1994
Godric's Hollow, England
Harry had two books on Transfiguration open on the table and two parchments. They had three twelve-inch parchments due over the summer, and he had two extra credits on theories for inanimate objects into animate creatures and animals. He was working on the extra credits today. His mum had said he should take a break and working on these were more fun than work.
It was a warm day out. His mum came in from the garden, a sick looking tentacular in her hands and other herbs ready for curing. She shook her head. "I thought I told you to relax."
"I am relaxing," he told her.
"If I had any doubt you belonged in Ravenclaw before, I don't anymore," she said. "Where are the girls?"
"Home. Luna was going to the Hebrides with her father for the night and Astoria was going to visit her friend Amanda," he said. He would prefer them here.
She put the tentacular down and moved to her lab. Harry focused on his books again and made more notes in his notebook. He wasn't sure how long he was working, but his mum came back into the kitchen, put a kettle on and started to mix two potions into the soil of the pot.
"Willow," his mum called.
Willow walked into the kitchen a moment later. "Yes, Mistress," the elf asked.
"Could I ask you to go to Ballywicks? Unless you are busy?"
"Oh, no, Mistress. I was only pruning the hedge. What would you like," she asked, pleased to do something.
"Take what you need for money. I would like two bottles of Valscale's Growth Elixir, a bag of dragon dung and a few stakes."
The elf looked happy to be asked to do something.
"Mum, is it possible the unknown variable in the transfiguration formula isn't unknown, but it's actually another formula? I always see it as my intent, but Luna describes it as her will and Astoria as a want. I feel they are not the same," he said looking at his book.
She looked up from the tentacular. "How are you getting there?"
"I was going over this magical theory book. It looks like once you get to what you were teaching us for algebra, most wizards just stop, thinking it is unknown. It's frustrating that there isn't a quantifier to it," he said looking up.
She reached over and lifted the cover to read. She didn't say anything to see Advanced Transfiguration Theory and Practice. It was a book he had ordered this year while at Hogwarts. "If it bugs you, do something about it."
He made an annoyed sound. "I have been for the last two hours. Are you going to teach us more algebra?"
"Yes. Trigonometry and Geometry too. I would like to get you to pre-calculus next summer. You may not make that break through until we get to pre-calculus and calculus. I have not looked into that, but some of my other theories would not have gotten off the ground without those," she told him.
"Why can't you teach me now?"
"Because you aren't ready. There is still a lot of mathematics you need to understand before you get to calculus. I will assure if you get to pre-calculus next summer, that will be two or three years before normal school. Harry, you are learning faster than most ever do," his mum said. "You four are going through entire courses in less than ten weeks."
His true frustration was that he needed a way to forget the thoughts in his head.
"That's not what is really bothering you, is it," she asked concerned.
He rubbed his hands together. He felt like he needed to wash himself.
"Harry, I think you should go back to Healer Tonks. I think it would help. I know you don't want to talk, but I heard you last night," she said kindly.
He nodded. He had woken from a nightmare early in the morning and went to the sitting room to read. He was still there when his mother had come down in the morning.
"Do I have to talk," he asked.
"That will be up to you, but I think it good you talk," she told him.
He shrugged. Looking back down at his book, he started to read it again. His mum made them some tea when the kettle whistled. When she settled back down, she didn't bother him as she worked on the tentacular. Willow came back a little bit later. "Would Mistress like Willow to make dinner tonight?"
"Only if you want."
Willow smiled. "Is Mr. Lupin eating here tonight?"
"Plan on him, but I don't know," she said.
"Mum, when are you going to talk with me about Uncle Remus," he asked.
She had moved the plant to the window. As he said it, she sighed. "Never?"
"I'll talk if you talk," he offered, not really wanting to talk.
She shook her head. "Harry, if you are not ready to talk, I am not going to force it out of you. What do you want to know about Remus and I?"
Harry had not thought it would be that easy. His mum was a very private person at times. "How long have you been together?"
"Last summer we started to see each other on and off," she said moving to the table. "Does that bother you?"
He shook his head. "I would actually like Uncle Remus around more. I don't want you to be lonely when I'm away."
She smiled at him. "Harry, you don't have to worry about me. I'm a big woman."
He shrugged. "I do think of it. Do you love him?"
Her finger touched the top of her tea mug and started circling it. For a few moments, her green eyes met his. He thought he saw many things fly through her eyes. "I don't know. I still love your father. Remus has been there for us, for me, when I have needed him. I don't want him to take the place of James."
"Mum, I never knew dad. I only know what you and Uncle Remus, or others, say. I know Uncle Remus has been there for us. He taught me to fly a broom and tie my shoelaces. I don't care he's a werewolf."
"He does though. You really don't think of your father that much?"
He gave her a sad smile. "Mum, Uncle Remus has been like my father."
She sighed again. "I never meant to downplay James that much to you."
"You haven't. I know you miss him, but I want you to be happy. Uncle Remus said you can feel for two people the same. I know you love him," Harry said. He needed this confirmation from her. He looked up to his mum like no one else. If she said it was alright, then he could stop feeling guilty for wanting both of his best mates.
"You've talk with him," she stated.
"I thought he would tell you."
"That was why he left two nights ago? You confronted him."
"I saw you Christmas in the stairwell. Can I just say eehww. Not a fan of seeing my mum snogging like that," he said with a smirk.
"Harry James," she said shocked before throwing some dirt at him.
He laughed. "Would you want to see your parents doing that?"
She groaned. "Don't get me started on that. I saw more of them at times than I wanted to. You changed the subject. You confronted him?"
"Yes. I asked him if it was confusing when he kissed you," he confessed.
His mum picked up her cup and looked in it. "How about some more tea?"
"Mum, is it confusing when you kiss him," Harry asked her. He needed to know.
She put her mug down before letting out a long breath. "You want to know if it's confusing because you like Luna and Astoria?" Harry didn't say anything. "Alright. Grown up to teen, or grownup to grownup," she asked.
"I don't know. I just want to know you two are dating and it is serious. You and Uncle Remus are all I have after my friends. It would be nice to have him around more and, maybe, be a family. He already is," Harry said truthfully.
"That might be nice. Grown up to teen. Yes, you can feel the same for two people. It really wouldn't bother you if I was dating Remus?"
"Mum, I love you and Uncle Remus. It would be nice to see you both happy. I wouldn't care if you shared the same room. I just don't want to see you snogging again."
After a moment, she turned to their elf that was busying herself in the kitchen. "Willow, can you find Remus and tell him he needs to be here tonight. No excuses."
Willow smiled. "Willow will find Master Remus."
Harry laughed at his mum's expression. "Where only dating," she yelled after the elf as Willow snapped away.
"By the way, I told him I would hunt him down if he hurts you," he told his mum going back to his book.
She eyed him. "You only get what's left of him."
He smiled at his mum. A moment later, Willow cracked back. "What the bloody hell," his Uncle yelled at the elf. "I said I was coming!"
"Mistress said no excuses."
He looked like he was still getting ready. His shirt was half-buttoned and his pants were undone. Harry laughed at his Uncle's disgruntled face. His mum shook her head. "You could have waited for him to be dressed."
Willow didn't look ashamed. "Mistress wanted Master Remus. Willow brought Master Remus. No excuses."
Harry laughed harder as his mum lowered her head into her hands. Uncle Remus was still trying to get himself settled. "What is going on?"
"Harry likes us dating," she said sitting up, chuckling as the man finally finished making himself look presentable.
Uncle Remus looked at her and then him. "Bollocks."
-oOo-
July 9, 1994
Dereham, England
Neville was moving between the rows of plants in the large greenhouse. They were all meticulously maintained and many were rare and exotic. He only recognized a quarter of them. His mum had many rare or exotic plants, but nothing like this. "Harry, I need to split these bell ringing valley lilies. Do you think your mum would like some?"
"I don't even know what those are or what they are used for," Harry told him.
"They are a neat plant from the America's. The writings in my grandda's books said the indigenous peoples used it in healing and sleeping draughts. There are probably other uses. Gran would usually sell off the extra's, but I'd rather them go to someone who knows how to take care of them," he said.
Harry shrugged. "Bring them over Monday. I'm sure mum will be excited to try something new."
A small cloth ball came out of his pocket and Harry started to kick it with his foot.
"What is that?"
"A hackysack. It's a muggle toy. I thought it would help with my coordination for quidditch," he said bouncing the ball off his wrists a few times before kicking it with his feet. "Besides, I'm bored. I love plants, but not like you and my mother."
Neville looked at him. "I like to take care of this greenhouse when I am home. The elves take care of the others. It's about the only thing Gran keeps going on the grounds. Since my father and grandfather died, she only seems to pay attention to the Wizengamot."
Harry snorted. "I still can't believe she voted to keep Fudge in. The guy is a berk."
"He cares about the Blood Laws and has tried to add to them a few times. She doesn't want the Longbottom line to die out. That is what Gran cares about. She also never liked Lord Bletchley, so she doesn't seem to cut up about the whole ordeal," Neville said.
"And what does she think about you or any of us almost being kissed?"
Neville snorted this time. "I was able to cast a corporeal patronus. She is more proud of me than anything else. The fact I saved nearly a hundred people around me, she isn't worried. I am worried though. There has been some rumors about new or changed Blood Laws. I don't know what they are, but Gran has had a lot of visitors lately, including the Malfoys and Bulstrodes. I think they are trying to get twenty-eight Houses to vote on a new law."
Harry frowned and the hackysack fell. "That is why I don't want to claim my Scion ring. Mum is not keen for me, or her, to have to comply with the Blood Laws. She has to obey them some, though, to remain Lady Potter."
Neville shrugged. "I need to. They aren't too bad. They don't limit who I can be with, like they used too. It also gives me some protection from the Daily Prophet and others that might look to use me. That is something Gran is always on the lookout for. Without my father as Lord, she says I could be taken advantage of. I don't know what she means though."
Harry started to kick his small ball again. "Mum said there are some clauses about Line Continuance and Blood relations that could try to force you to transfer Head of House and your Lordship on the Wizengamot if you don't meet certain criteria. I don't know what she means," he said to Neville. "She says I am too young to worry about that."
"Gran says the same," Neville said setting a few pots with the valley lilies. "So, you kiss Luna yet?"
Harry had admitted to his mate that he liked the girls when he had asked. He had also alluded to wanting to kiss them again. He kicked the hackysack harder than he meant. It sailed over a row of plants. "Bloody hell," he said as it landed near a stump. "That isn't a snarglepuff, is it?"
"A particularly nasty one," Neville nodded. "What would you have done if I mentioned Astoria?"
Harry hit Neville on his arm. Neville laughed. "I don't know. Maybe I should ask Hermione why you only seem to trip when she is around?" The blonde boy would not call her his girlfriend, but they had something going on.
"You want your ball back or not," Neville asked, a little red faced.
"You have gloves and a sword?"
Neville chuckled. "You need to know how to handle her. Watch," Neville said walking over towards the plant. He took a stick and moved it towards the stump. The top opened a crack and a few small tips poked out. Neville moved the stick closer towards a little nob at the base. "Most snarglepuffs have a spot that, ah, calms them so you can pollinate them."
Harry got the implication and when Neville touched it, the plant shivered before opening. "Go get it. No sudden movements or it may try to grab you."
Nodding, he moved in. He reached for it and some of the tentacles came out, slowly reaching for him. His Seeker instincts told him go. He lunged forward, grabbed the small ball and pulled back before the plant seemed to burst its innards as dozens of the tentacles tried to grab him. He skipped back. "Nasty thing," he said to Neville.
"It is, but I won't get rid of it. My mum planted it from some seeds from Hogwarts," he told Harry.
Harry nodded. Neville rarely talked about his parents. Harry didn't say anything as they went back to the valley lilies he had been harvesting and tending. "Thanks," Harry said.
"Any time. When are Luna and Astoria back?"
"Next week. How about Hermione?"
"Same," he said. Harry had a feeling Neville missed the girls as much as he did. The last week it had been just him and Neville at the house for their lessons.
"You going to play with your plants all day?"
"I wanted to harvest the dittany that was ready. Why?" Neville rubbed his scar.
"I got a new game from the Abbots. Ever heard of exploding gobstones," he asked. "Your scar bothering you again?"
Neville groaned. "It's nothing. Did you say they explode now? It was bad enough before."
Harry grinned. "Mum said no books today, so I had to bring something. They either squirt you or explode now."
"I think I'm going to be busy all day."
"Coward," Harry accused.
"It keeps me alive," Neville chuckled. Both boys knew they would be the first to run towards trouble, especially if their girls or family were involved.
Harry started to kick his hackysack around again. Every once in a while, he would lash his hand out to catch it like a snitch. It was a pleasant day to talk and eventually wander the grounds with Neville. There was a nice stream with a pool they swam in during the hot afternoon and he eventually got Neville to try the exploding gobstones. He laughed at the swears, or almost swears, that came out of his friends mouth.
-oOo-
July 12, 1994
London, England
Luna landed and was glad her father was holding her arm. She really did not like portkeys and always felt very disorientated if someone didn't help her.
"Thank you, daddy," she said.
"You're welcome, Moonbeam."
"Please clear the platform," an older wizard called to them. "Two more minutes before the next portkey."
"I'd have liked to take one of the diggerydoos back," her father said picking up their bags with a levitation charm.
"It is better they live with their kind. Many wizards will be wanting to study them now. The aboriginals trust us enough to decide who to recommend because we did not want to take them," she told him.
"You are right. Did you draft that article you want?"
"Oh, yes. I would like to present to the Society before it goes in the Quibbler."
"Of course, Moonbeam. It is still early in the day, are you going to the Potters?"
She smiled. "I would like too."
Her father nodded. "Be home for supper. You can sleep over there or the Greengrasses tomorrow. If you want to present to the Society of Wonderful Creatures, we should get the papers ready tonight. I can present them tomorrow."
She smiled. "Yes, daddy."
They walked out into the Entry Hall of the Ministry and up to the fireplaces after going through customs. It was one of three International Portkey hubs in Britain. "I will take all this home if you want to go right there."
She kissed daddy on his cheek.
A few minutes later, she was standing in the Potter's sitting room. Mrs. Potter walked down the stairs with a book in her hands. She looked up and then back down as she went towards the kitchen. "Good morning, Luna. Harry is still in his bed."
"Thank you, Mrs. Potter," she said.
"How was Australia," the woman said still walking away.
"Brilliant! Did Harry show you the picture?"
"He did. I assume Xeno is going to try to get you inducted," she asked and Luna followed her.
She smiled even wider. "Yes. We are going to do the paperwork tonight."
"Excellent, Luna. I am proud for you. You want to go get my son up? It's almost ten and he has an appointment at 11:30."
She cocked her head. She had hoped to spend the day here. She hadn't seen Harry in almost three weeks and she had missed him. Maybe she could go to Astoria if he had to leave. "Sure," she said. As she looked at Mrs. Potter, she noticed something different. Mrs. Potter was a light lavender color, but there was a difference today.
"You good, Luna," Mrs. Potter asked.
"Oh, yes." She turned and hummed as she went up to Harry's room.
She opened the door. It was dark in here. Luna was still humming as she walked over and knelt on the side of the bed. He had pushed his blankets and sheet off. She liked that he didn't' have a shirt on, but it probably wasn't right for her to sit there and look him over. It was enjoyable though.
Luna ran her hand through his hair. "Time to get up, Harry," she said quietly. "I have much to tell you."
Harry groaned in pleasure as her hand scratched his scalp. "Have I said how much I like that?"
She smiled. "Not yet."
He opened his green eyes. "Missed you," he told her. It sent a warm feeling through her to see his green eyes looking at her that way.
"It wasn't that long," she told him, feeling the same as him. Almost three weeks had been long.
He yawned as he sat up. "When did you get back?"
"Not long ago. It only took four portkeys," she told him. Four too many, but better than the six it took to get there.
"That is good. Congratulations on finding the diggerydoos. You mind throwing me that shirt," he said. He still looked tired.
"Are you sleeping," she asked concerned. She had worried about him and her dark hair girl while gone, but they had done so much hiking and other activities she had usually fallen asleep and slept through her nightmares. She did not sleep through some of the more pleasant dreams.
"It is getting better," he told her. Harry stretched as she threw the shirt on his bed. She liked how his lanky body pulled tight.
"Is that why you have an appointment at 11:30?"
Harry looked down. "Mum is having me see Healer Tonks again," he said in a really low voice.
It was not right they should have such baggage at their age. "It will help. Talking of Mrs. Potter, when is she due?"
Harry frowned. "Yeah. Maybe. And when is my mum due for what?"
Harry got up and moved to his dresser.
"Your sister. When is Mrs. Potter due?" She asked him.
Harry stopped, a pair of shorts in his hand and a new shirt. "What was that?"
"Mrs. Potter. She is different today. Your little sister is growing in her," she told him. Was she not making it clear?
"Mum," Harry called out. He grabbed her hand and pulled her down to the kitchen. Mr. Lupin was now in the kitchen with the Daily Prophet and a cup of coffee.
"What are you rushing around about?" Mr. Lupin leaned back in his chair to look at them. "Welcome back, Luna."
"Mum, are you pregnant," Harry blurted out.
Mrs. Potter looked up from her book and Mr. Lupin paled. "What would make you think that," she asked as though it was the most preposterous question ever.
Harry pulled her forward. "Luna," he told her.
The kitchen got very quiet. Mrs. Potter looked at her. "Luna, luv, do you mean I will be in the future?"
She shook her head, smiling. "She is a nice purple, darker than your normal lavender."
Mr. Lupin ran his hand down his face. Mrs. Potter just blinked at her. Why were they all acting as though they didn't know anything about it? She knew Mr. Lupin and Mrs. Potter were a couple. Luna knew how babies were made. Would this not be one of the effects sometimes?
"You are sure?"
"Should I not be," she asked Mrs. Potter.
Mr. Lupin pushed his chair out and it toppled as he took a large step towards the kitchen door. "Muros aeris," Harry quickly said.
The air before Mr. Lupin shimmered and quickly looked as translucent as air normally did. The man hit something like he had just walked into a glass window. "Bloody Merlin," Mr. Lupin exclaimed grabbing his nose. "Harry, let me go."
"No," Harry said hard. "If you are the father of my sister she needs her dad."
For the first time she could ever remember, the man growled at her Harry. She moved to put herself before Harry.
"Let me go, Harry."
"You walk out that door, Remus John Lupin, never come back," Mrs. Potter told him.
The man looked at her. "It is better to let me go."
"And what if she is a werewolf," Harry asked. "You would just abandon her?"
"What if she isn't," he complained, as though in pain.
"I don't think she will be afflicted but she may like her meat more rare," she spoke up.
"Remus, I would have not invited you into my bed if I did not feel you a good man," his mum said. "Are you going to walk out that door or are you going to help me raise our daughter?"
The man looked so torn.
"I think you should stay," Luna told him.
Harry made a disgruntled sound and his magic retreated. "Uncle Remus, I won't stop you. Don't ever show your face around here again if you decide to leave. Mum and I will find a way to raise my sister. It would be better if she had a father." He turned and stormed away. "I don't care you're a bloody werewolf," he screamed stomping up the stairs.
She looked after Harry. "Go, Luna," Mrs. Potter said.
Looking back, Mr. Lupin had started to pace in the kitchen, a hand behind his neck. "Congratulations, Mrs. Potter and Mr. Lupin. I look forward to meeting my sister."
The woman smiled at her. "I look forward to meeting my next daughter," she said before turning to Mr. Lupin. "Are you going to calm down and talk? Or do I need to take you out back?"
Luna moved to follow Harry. He needed her. He needed his mum and Mr. Lupin. "No, Lily. Luna can't be serious," the man said. It hurt he would question her.
"Remus, have you ever known her to be wrong? You know what she is. If Luna says I am pregnant, I am pregnant," Mrs. Potter endorsed her. She was now at the stairs.
Mr. Lupin sighed. "I know. I just never wanted a child."
"You have no choice now."
Harry was banging his draws and other stuff in his room. He looked up when she came in. "Did he leave?"
"They are talking," she told him.
He ran his hands through his messy hair. He looked very upset.
"Are you angry your mum is pregnant?"
He laughed darkly. "No. I'm going to have a little sister. I always wanted a sibling. I am royally buggered at my Uncle. It has been very nice to have him around, even in the morning to see him walking out of mum's room, but he is going to leave us again."
Her arms reached out to wrap around him. His arms wrapped around her. "I will never leave you," she told him.
Harry kissed her forehead. "I know."
-oOo-
July 18, 1994
Rotterham, England
Harry was walking next to Astoria. Luna was at the Society of Wonderous Creatures today with her father. There was a real chance she could be one of the youngest members accepted in. It would be something Astoria and him would be very proud of.
Right now though, he was concentrating on the cute hazel-eye, dark hair brunette. She was in a light blue sun dress, her hands behind her back and walking backwards down a path that led away from the Manor towards the upper orchards. "It was a lot of fun," she said. The smile that had been on her face since he arrived had not dimmed.
"Good. Did you get to Paris?"
"Three days. They have an alley like Diagon Alley called Allée des Lumières. The Alley of Lights because it is filled with faery lights at night and an old canal runs down the center. I so wished you and Luna were there," she told him.
His smile matched hers to see her so happy. "You will have to take us."
"I'll hold you to that. What did you do? Tell me you didn't do more studying," she said with a raised eyebrow.
He shrugged. "What else was I supposed to do? It's not like mum can travel right now."
"What do you mean she can't travel," she asked.
"Well, mum and Uncle Remus are dating," he said.
"I like Mr. Lupin. Too bad most don't like what he is. Are you happy with this?"
He shrugged. "He's my Uncle. He's already been more like my dad than anyone else and it makes mum happy."
"So, why would them dating prevent her from traveling?"
"The Healer says she shouldn't," he said, stringing her along. He was still getting used to the idea, and keeping a close eye on Uncle Remus. The man had stayed but he still looked ready to bolt. He knew that would hurt mum and he would not allow it. Uncle Remus was also going to be the father of his sister. He did not want her to grow up without a father like him and Uncle Remus was a good man.
"Harry, what happened to your mother? Why would a Healer tell her not to travel? She isn't sick, is she?"
"Not unless you consider carrying my sister as being sick," he said.
She stopped suddenly and he just missed walking right into her. He laughed to see the look in her face. "She's with child," she said shocked. "With Mr. Lupin?"
"Yeah. Mum has been pretty surprised this week. She keeps saying it shouldn't have been possible," he told her.
"Does mother know about this?"
"I don't know. That is for mum to tell her. Can you believe I'll have a little sister?"
"How do you know it is a girl?"
"Luna," he told her.
"I feel bad for her already," she said with a smirk.
He raised an eyebrow, knowing where this might be going. "And why would that be?"
"She'll have you for a brother," she said, laughing as he swiped at her. "Harry! No! I like this dress!"
She tried to avoid him and he grabbed her around the waist. She laughed as he picked her up and spun her around. "Take it back then."
"No," she squealed as he tickled her. "Luna and I'll will have to save her."
There was a soft pop near them. Harry put her down when he saw the House Elf. Astoria stood and tried to straighten out her dress. "Yes, Marin," she asked, still laughing.
"Ms. Astoria and Scion Harry are requested back at the house," the elf said.
"We will be up presently," she told their elf.
"Lady Illiana would like you to come back with Marin."
Astoria sobered and looked worried. "Marin, what is going on?"
Harry moved to her and reached for the wand in his holster on his forearm. Uncle Remus had gotten it for him because he was getting annoyed with it sticking out of his jean or shorts pocket.
"Visitors, Miss. The Lord and Lady Malfoy have visited unannounced and Lady Illiana requests you and Scion Potter."
Astoria grabbed his arm. Harry felt her muscles tighten. He knew Malfoy and a few others had been giving her a hard time, but she had not really said how.
"We should go with Marin, Harry. Marin, can you take me to my room first? I would like to change," she told her.
"Yes, Ms. Astoria. Scion Harry, Lady Greengrass had me lay out a set of robes and clothes for you that should fit in the guest room," Marin said reaching out her hand.
A few moments later, he was putting on a pair of slacks, a nice shirt and a vest. He found it interesting that they had put a House Potter crest on the vest and robes for him. Mum must have authorized it. Daphne came out of her room, her mask up, as he stepped into the hallway. Harry had a feeling she was not very pleased. She nodded to him as she walked by. A few minutes later Astoria came out in dark green witch's robes. He really liked her in those robes.
Marin met them at the top of the stairs. "Lady Greengrass has asked if Scion Potter would escort Ms. Astoria to the Green Room?"
He looked at Astoria. "That is the formal parlor," Astoria told him. "This is official House business."
He held out his arm and she took it. "Why would they just up and visit like this," he asked, not wanting to deal with Malfoy at all and knowing the Greengrasses did not like them.
"I don't know. This is very improper," she said. "Will you stay with me?"
"Always," he told her.
Her mask was up by now. Marin opened the doors for them and he led her in. The rest of the Greengrasses and the Malfoys were sitting around a large table with eight settings. He was grateful that Lady Greengrass would be between them and the Malfoys. "Ah, I see your other daughter," Lord Malfoy paused to see him escorting her, "has finally arrived."
"We were not expecting your visit and she has a personal guest, Lord Malfoy," Lady Greengrass said in her Lady's voice.
It was his first time to see Lord Malfoy up close and he found he did not like him. All the arrogance and privilege that Draco espoused was magnified and refined in this man. Harry held the man's grey eyes until he had to pull out Astoria's seat. "Thank you," she said and he sat next to her, with Lady Greengrass on his other side.
"Is it appropriate for others to attend?" Lady Malfoy looked at him. "This is House business."
"Scion Potter is a personal guest and Ally of the Greengrasses. He can be here if I say," Lord Greengrass said.
Lord Malfoy did not look happy.
"Father, it was Potter that..." the youngest Malfoy looked the least pleased to see him.
Lady Malfoy shot her son a glare and he shut his mouth. "Draco."
Harry tried to sit tall and act as he was expected too. Astoria sat as rigid as she could with her hands on her lap.
"Lord Malfoy, you asked for all of us to be here. What business would you discuss," Lord Greengrass asked.
"Is it not customary for refreshments to be served at a House meeting," Lady Malfoy asked.
Lady Greengrass inclined her head. "They will be provided shortly. If we had been informed then I would have had time to properly plan."
Harry felt like he was watching a high stakes game that he wanted the Malfoy's to lose.
"I have requested this meeting for many months. It should not be a surprise," Lord Malfoy said.
"If this is about your interest in investing in my company, I have expressed little interest in this meeting, or the terms you propose."
Lord Malfoy tilted his head up. "That is part of what I would like to discuss. It is a good deal for both of our Houses."
"Why would I be interested and find it a good deal to give you a controlling interest? There is no advantage for the Greengrass House with what you propose."
"The Malfoy's can offer many contacts, access to other markets and the means to utilize both."
"I already have more than the Malfoys." Lord Greengrass sounded dismissive. "I also do not understand why talking business requires my whole House to attend."
"What if I were to also propose a path to continue the Lordship of Greengrass? It would allow your assets to be maintain in your control and the Malfoy's would lend our expertise in imports and exports from other locations around the world."
Astoria clenched her hands together as Draco looked at her. Harry did not like the look on the boy's face. He found himself grabbing his pants and practicing the calming exercises.
Until now, he had never seen Lord Greengrass upset. The man's eyes burned with a power that Harry saw in his daughter when she was worked up. "Are you asking for one of my daughters?"
"I am offering a contract with very lenient terms that will leave your family line intact with the Lordship passing to one of your daughters. It would be preferred to be your youngest."
Harry was about to stand up and do something rash when Lady Greengrass put a hand on his arm. The shake to her head was almost imperceptible. Lady Greengrass spoke, her voice icy and furious. "I am afraid refreshments will not be available today. Scion Potter, would you escort both of my daughters back to their rooms?"
"Why is the Blood Traitor escorting out my betrothed," Malfoy demanded.
"My daughter is not engaged or betrothed to anyone, nor is she old enough. Lord Malfoy, it is time for you to leave," Lord Greengrass demanded.
Lady Greengrass tightened her hold on his arm when his hand went for his left forearm. "Scion Potter, escort our daughters."
Harry let out an angry breath. His respect for Astoria's parents stayed his magic. He stood, took Astoria's chair out as she stood up. Daphne waited for him to help her out of her chair. Draco had received a scathing look from his father and was sitting quietly. The boy was seething. Harry felt his own anger subside a little bit to know Astoria was leaving on his arm. Daphne took up the lead.
"Anders, this is not a wise decision. Your family stands to die out with only your daughters," Lord Malfoy said.
"Is that a threat," he heard Lord Greengrass. "In my own House?"
"Lucius, it is time for us to go," he heard Lady Malfoy.
The doors closed behind them. Daphne waited for them to be up the stairs before she let out a spate of profanities. "That loathsome, gutter sucking, son of Morgana. I wouldn't let that ruddy bastard in the same room as me, let alone let him touch me. Merlin's ruddy saggy sack! I feel dirty from him just looking at us that way," she said with a shutter.
She threw her hands into the air as she stormed down the hallway. "I am going to curse him with a bludgering charm so hard he will sing soprano for the rest of his life. Merlin sucking belland! Bloody white haired, Morgana's tit! No, that is too good for him. He deserves to be a bloody boil..."
Harry winced as she kept going before slamming her door behind her. "You think they heard that?"
Astoria hadn't moved, she was still holding his arm tight. Looking at her, her mask had collapsed into tears and fear. "Astoria?" She didn't say a word. "Little Aster?"
"Harry, Draco wants me. He threatened me all year. I never thought he meant it or they would do this," she said. He pulled her to him. She melted into him and hugged him tight. He kissed her on her forehead. Somewhere he had grown a good three inches over her.
"You can't leave me with him. Please don't leave me." He heard her panicked plead.
"Never. I will never leave you," he told her.
Lady Greengrass came up rather silently behind Astoria. He met her eyes. She looked very upset. Astoria didn't notice as she hugged him tight. Lady Greengrass nodded in approval and walked past them. Harry didn't know what that meant. All he knew was that he wouldn't allow Malfoy to get her.
-oOo-
July 23, 1994
London, England
Harry followed his mother and Uncle Remus through the halls of St. Mungo's to a private room on the fourth floor. When they approached, two Aurors stood guard.
Harry wasn't sure how he felt about this meeting. His mum still seemed very upset with Black. Remus seemed pleased to have a friend back.
"Afternoon, Robards," his mum greeted the Auror to the right.
"Lady Potter," the man said nodding. "I think he has been waiting to see you."
She sighed. "I figured."
Black had not 'technically' been freed yet. The Wizengamot had cleared him of all but the deaths of two muggles. He had to present himself before they would do that, but it was a forgone conclusion, as far as Uncle Remus was considered.
His Uncle opened the door. "You don't have to do this if you don't want," he said to her.
She pursed her lips. "I need to do it sometime. He is technically family."
"Is that the sweet sounds of Lily," a man asked from inside.
She sighed. "Come on, you," she said to him. Harry gave a look to Uncle Remus who tried to give a reassuring smile.
Harry followed her in and Uncle Remus pulled up the rear. "You look radiant as ever, Lily," the man in the hospital bed said.
He looked better than when Harry had seen him about a month and a half ago. His beard was nicely trimmed into a friendly mullet, his hair was cut shoulder length and his grey eyes looked sharper. The man still looked thin in the striped bed clothes.
"James, is that you," the man asked expectantly. "Little smaller than I remember."
His mum put a hand on his shoulder and moved him forward. "This is Harry, Sirius. James' and my son."
The man looked at him for a few. "Spitting image of James with your intense eyes, Lils. James always liked your eyes," that man said wistfully. "How old are you now, James... I mean Harry."
"Almost thirteen," he said, unsure what to make of the man.
He nodded. "James didn't know about you. Are you a troublemaker? Please say he's a troublemaker! James and I always had fun, didn't we Remus?"
His mum tightened her grip on his shoulder. "He's actually top of his class and in Ravenclaw. He doesn't get into much trouble." His mum sounded proud.
The man leaned back against the bed. "You sound just like Lily. Though she caused a fair amount of trouble too."
"Only because you and James wreaked havoc our first few years and I was just trying to keep us from losing too many points," she said.
Remus chuckled. "I doubt the times you smoke bombed Filch or let Kettleburn's pixies loose, twice, you were just keeping them in line?"
She shook her head. "You know how much I hated Filch and Kettleburn let those damned pixies on us four times. I was left to clean them up when you and James and Remus gave them bloody paintballs."
Sirius laughed and Remus backed out of reach of his mum. "I remember that. Slughorn was raving mad when they ambushed him."
"Oh, yes, it was quite hilarious," she said with a raised eyebrow and small smirk. Harry couldn't keep his laugh in.
They looked at him and he straightened his expression again. "At least you didn't curse your professor," Harry said.
"Who said we didn't," Sirius said wagging his eyebrow.
"I think Harry deserves the prize for that one, though," Remus said.
"I will not regret what happened," he said. "Snape is a prat and he deserved what he got."
"He didn't get a quarter of what he deserved," his mum said angrily. "Docked pay and probation. He should have been fired."
"You aren't talking about the Death Eater Snivellus," Sirius asked.
"Severus Snape is the Potions Master at Hogwarts," Uncle Remus told him. "I have told he was cleared."
Sirius expression dropped. "My memory isn't what it used to be, hey, James? What did you do to Snivellus?"
Harry wasn't sure what he should say. "Ah," he started.
"The man 'borrowed' some of Harry's potions tools. Harry set a trap with a pretty advanced ward stone. James would have been impressed," Uncle Remus said. "Severus looked like a punk rocker with silver and blue hair."
Sirius laughed and clapped his leg. "I would have paid a hundred galleons to see that. Tell me you almost were expelled? You were able to transfigure and charm his hair," Sirius said impressed.
"I learned my lesson after doing it first year," he said defensively. "And I did nothing to get me expelled. I was not trying to get Snape. I think mum or Astoria would kill me if I got expelled."
"Disown you, maybe," his mum said with a smirk. "I think Remus likes you around, so I won't kill you. I can't vouch for Astoria."
Harry groaned.
Sirius looked at him. "Is Astoria one of the girls that were with you that day?"
Harry blanched. He hadn't really wanted to talk about what happened end of year yet. His mum saw it. "Yes, Astoria Greengrass. She is one of Harry's year mates."
Sirius eyes widened. "Did you say Greengrass?" Harry nodded and Sirius whistled. "Not even James or I dared to asked Ander's sister. Andrea was a looker."
"This is Ander's daughter," she told him.
"Who did he marry," Sirius asked.
"Illiana Widershins."
"No wonder she was so good looking. Nice choice, James."
"Harry, Sirius. It's Harry," Uncle Remus said gently.
"Right. Harry. Who was the blonde?"
"Luna Lovegood. Daughter of Xenopholius Lovegood and Pandora Penhurst."
Sirius smiled at Harry. "Excellent choices, Harry," the man said. "Are you seeing them both at once?"
Harry didn't like the suggestive nature of the man's voice. "They are my best mates and proper young woman."
Sirius held his hands up at his voice. "Right. Serious like your mum. Got it. No offense."
"Mum, is it all right I go hang out in the corridor," he asked.
"That is fine, Harry," she said. "Remus and I will be a short bit longer."
"Sure," he said. Black looked sad. Before he left, Harry took a deep breath. "Thank you for saving me."
The man's eyes looked haunted. "It was the least I could do for James. He saved me more times than I can count."
Harry nodded at Black before he nodded at his mum and Uncle Remus. As he was walking out, he heard Black, "He's nothing like James. James would have been making jokes and gotten up to real fun at school."
"Harry is not James, Sirius. He is a brilliant young man that has already dealt with some bad events," his mum said.
"He is more like James when he was Head Boy," his Uncle stated before he closed the door.
The Aurors nodded. "Mr. Potter."
"Hello," he said before moving down the corridor. It bothered him Black kept calling him James. Harry didn't want to get up to trouble at school. He was perfectly happy getting good grades, spending time with his friends and staying out of trouble. Or he wished he could stay out of trouble.
-oOo-
July 31, 1994
London, England
"What are we doing here," Harry asked.
"Meeting your friends," his mum said.
They were walking out of the Leaky Cauldron. Diagon Alley was busy today. They had received the list of Hogwarts supplies and books this morning, so there were families going through the various stores. He lagged just a moment as they passed Quality Quidditch Supplies. In the window was a Firebolt, last year's newest broom and still the fastest one on the market, outside of personal or specially made racing brooms. He knew he would never get one, but it didn't mean he still couldn't drool over it like others looking at the window.
"We can go in there later," his mum said chuckling.
"I would just like to touch one of those," he said.
"Maybe later. In here," she said.
She held open the door to Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor. Inside, he broke into a smile to see Neville, Hermione, Astoria and Luna at a table. Some streamers were over the table. Lady Greengrass was talking with the stern Lady Longbottom.
"Happy Birthday," Luna said first. Harry smiled as they all wished him a 'Happy Birthday'.
"Happy birthday to you too, mate," he said to Neville grabbing his forearm. Neville did the same.
Mr. Fortescue came out to the table and his daughter served them. Having a heaping bowl of mint chip for lunch was brilliant as they all talked about what electives they were going to take this year and the trips the girls had taken.
Harry gave Neville his present before they left. His friend had liked the holster he used and Uncle Remus was happy to get it for him to give Neville. Neville and Hermione gave him a book on Medieval Futhark. It was not one in his collection of Rune books yet so he was pleased.
When they left, Hermione and Neville went off with Lady Longbottom to get their supplies for the year.
"Tell me we are not getting our supplies today," he said. It was his birthday. Neville may not mind, but Harry didn't want to drag all that stuff around.
"I would like to pick up a thing or two you will need at school."
He groaned as the girls took his arms.
"He sounds just like Astoria when she doesn't want to do something," Lady Greengrass said with a chuckle.
"Mother," she said scathingly.
His mum laughed. "Well, we could put it off, but I doubt he would want to."
"Which store should he go to first," Astoria asked.
"It is Harry's birthday and we have not given him his presents yet," Luna said. "I think he would like his gifts."
"That still means two stores. This way then," his mum said.
When they walked into Flourish and Blotts, a dozen people were waiting in line with stacks of schoolbooks. Harry loved books, but he did not want to do school shopping today. "What are we doing in here."
"This is my gift. You can pick out one book," Luna said letting go of his arm.
He looked at her. "You mean any book?"
She nodded.
He looked at his mum. There had been one he wanted for his library since last year, but he had been told it was too advanced.
"I think it alright," his mum said.
Harry smiled as he went to the special case by the counter. He waited, not all too patiently, rocking on his feet until it was his turn. When he got to the counter, he pointed at a red leather-bound book in the case.
"You look a little young for this," the man behind the counter said.
"It is what I want for my birthday," he told him. Luna was at his side.
"He is quite capable of understanding it," she told the book seller.
The man shrugged and handed it to him. Luna put the thirteen galleons it cost on the counter. He felt guilty for her to spend so much, but she would have said something if she couldn't afford it. He clutched the book as they left. He had in his hands a copy of the Goblin's official book on Rune Crafting. It was one of the few books that a wizard could get, published by the Goblins, for potential Curse Breakers or Ward Weavers.
The goblins would not hire anyone if they could not understand this book. Harry wasn't sure he wanted to work for the Goblins, but he found the prospect intriguing.
"You act as though someone is going to steal it," Astoria laughed trying to take his arm.
"This is a goblin book. I have to learn gobbledegook now. Do you know how hard these are to come by," he said to her. "Luna, thank you." He kissed her on the forehead.
Luna pulled his arm and he was forced to hold the book in one hand so both girls could take his arms.
"Good thing we got you this then." He hadn't noticed Astoria was holding a package.
"Where did that come from," he asked.
"Luna had a feeling you would be getting that book."
His smile had not lessened. "Thank you."
"Oh, this one is not from me. This is from your mother."
"Thanks mum," he said.
Astoria still led them. "Mother and father wanted to help with your present this year," she said steering them into Quality Quidditch.
Harry was always for getting new gear or a few snitches to practice with.
They led him to the counter where a man in an orange Cannon's Jersey was ringing out Cedric Diggory. "Potter," Diggory greeted looking at him quickly. "Lovegood. Greengrass," he said with a nod.
"Diggory. New gloves," Harry asked.
"Yeah, can't let you beat me this year," the boy said with a grin and taking his bag. When he turned, the boy stiffened.
"Lady Greengrass. Lady Potter," the boy said with a nod. "Please excuse me, I did not see you there."
Lady Greengrass waved him off. "We are not in any formal settings, Mr. Diggory. Is your father Amos Diggory?"
"Yes, ma'am."
"Good man. I wish you luck this year against Mr. Potter," she said with a smirk.
Diggory's smile returned. "Yes, ma'am. I may need it."
After a good bye, Lady Greengrass stepped up to the counter. "Good afternoon, Lady Greengrass. Am I to assume you are here to pick up your package?"
"Yes, Mr. Buckner."
The man nodded and went into a back room. Harry looked at Astoria and her mum. Luna had drifted off to look at a nice scarf. When the man came out, Harry's mouth went dry. He was holding a paper package that could only be a broom. He looked at them and then his mum before the man put it on the counter. His current broom was only a year and a half old and in top condition.
"I have not sold many of these, but not a finer broom out there. Let me just take this off. I am sure you want to inspect it before you take delivery," the man said.
He took off the wrapping and a Firebolt was on the counter. He just stared at it.
"Thank you, Mr. Buckner. It looks to be in very fine condition. Harry, would you like to check it over before you leave with it," Lady Greengrass ask.
He blinked stupidly. "Those are over 1600 galleons each," he said.
Lady Greengrass chuckled. "Perhaps, but it is not everyday a boy turns thirteen, nor is it every boy that has saved my daughter twice. Happy Birthday, Harry."
He moved when Astoria gently nudged him. The man behind the counter laughed. "That was about my reaction the first time I saw one."
Harry touched it reverently. The polish was the smoothest he had ever felt. The broom vibrated with the want to fly. Golden lettering spelled out 'Firebolt 00415' towards the tip. It took him a moment to realize that the number was a serial number. So few of them were produced, they serialized them. The brass foot holds looked just perfect for his boots.
"I think you are drooling," his mum said.
He closed his mouth. "Is this really for me?"
"Yes. I hope you enjoy it," Lady Greengrass said.
"Happy Birthday, Harry," Astoria said before kissing him on the cheek.
-oOo-
A/N: The ways of the Old and Pure Bloods will start to enter more from this chapter on. Have a few base rules I have made so far:
1) There is a proper courting ritual, but it does not have to be followed. If it is, then the rules and laws around it apply. It typically starts with Escorts between 13-15. If a couple is determined to be suitable, they can be entered into a Betrothal between 15-17, as stated in CH 18. Between 17-21, the witch and wizard need to agree. This was a weakening of the Blood Laws that happened years ago.
2) Blood laws only apply to those of Old or Pure Blood
3) They can only be ratified, changed or canceled by a minimum twenty-eight houses of Old or Pure Blood status on the Wizengamot. Thus, were the Sacred Twenty-eight came from.
4) There are about forty Houses on the Wizengamot that fall into this Category. Enough that it is hard, but not impossible, to pass new laws
5) There will not be a Marriage or similar law. Not at all.
A/N2: I am going with the assumption that years in Azkaban does real physical and mental damage to you. Sirius spent more than twelve years in Azkaban. He will not be in Year 3 as much as he recovers, but I wanted him in the storyline for later. I also like him.