FLASHBACK

The council of three. The 3 eldest members of Clan Gravel once more sat in the conference room where all clan business was held. The 2 eldest males and the eldest female had almost been living in the room for several days now.

The room permeated with the stench of several hundred angry goblins all loudly passing the foulest gas. It was quickly determined not to have any open flames or sparks anywhere near the meeting chamber. The tiniest spark could set a conflagration of epic proportions.

"Please elders. I have been here 2 days without any fresh air. Please allow me a moment's respite."

"Enough!" The female elder yelled at him quieting the susurrus of conversation. We all have been subject to this. And you are the cause and epicenter of it! Your attitude and ignorance have nearly brought the end of clan Gravel."

"Perhaps a different order master?"

"Quiet! Smalldirk. We have already had our order masters cleanse this. Then again when it reappeared. Now nearly every member of clan Gravel is affected." The ancient looking goblin in the center was beyond angry. To punctuate his remarks he too passed gas loudly. The entire chamber reverberated with the sound and the other elders made a face as they got to experience the smell as well. As the elder it was his option to rehash the recent history and their great displeasure with Smalldirk made them want to reiterate it. "We even consulted with the order masters of the other clans. We've inspected every dwelling and every time one is cured another takes his place."

The third member, the youngest of the elders stated plainly. Your life hangs in the balance."

His mate had already left him. Goblins marry for life, divorce was seldom granted; honor being the chief reason for allowing divorce. The elders in record time unanimously agreed that Smalldirk had no honor and his arranged marriage was declared void. As a penalty. The departing female also received 85% of all funds and joint property. That too was a record. Smalldirk did not want the council to learn that he once more was affected despite the earlier removals. "Clan leaders. Since a wizard cast this. Perhaps another wizard could help remove it? It is fairly well known within the clan the greatest wizard alive counts clan Gravel as his friends."

It was many seconds before anyone had anything to say. At the mention of "wizard" many in the chamber erupted in a fresh wave of flatulence. Smalldirk hid his gas amongst all of the others.

The elder nodded having reached consensus with the other. "Your suggestion is not without merit. It has granted you a reprieve. Pray to the goddess that Dumbledore is successful."

Standing, he had to bow as the decision was delivered. He couldn't help it, he didn't want to, but this could not be held in. As he bowed, "Phweeeeeet!"
-

The guys were lazing about the Great Hall. The surprise of the class cancellation was welcome but also added a little boredom. The girls refused to let them into their quarters, having Dobby drop off whatever they needed. Thay had gone for a run. but they were in a cool down phase and were resting the sore muscles as well as their magic.

"Dobby," Harry had asked. "What's going on in there?"

Dobby shook his head. "I's sorry Harry Potter sir. But Dobby not allowed in there either. Whens you or great master Neville needs anything I has to ask Winky. Winky told me it ladies business and all males to keep out."

Neville, just smirked, "Wow Harry. This is something different. I'm not reading any anger from my bond, are you?"

"No. I feel anger. But it's not directed at you or me. I would be able to tell that."

"Dobby did have a message from miss moany though."

"Good go ahead."

"Cans Dobby punish himself first?"

"No." he answered emphatically. "We discussed this. Especially this kind of thing. Not your fault. What did 'Mione say?"

"She says, 'Tell Potter this is his ladies household business and not to cross any of them on this."

Harry had just asked Neville if he had told his grandmother about bonding. Hoping for once to get ahead of Neville in their game.

"Of course Harry. One of the first things I did. As well as Tracey's and Daphne's parents. We are scheduling a meeting now. Good thing I have you to use as a template. Huh Harry?"

"Shut up Longbottom. I still hate you."

"Yeah Potter me too."

Conversation ceased as the headmaster flanked by a dozen goblins in armour walked into the dining hall. "Lord Longbottom, Lord Potter. These Goblins are here to escort you to Gringott's I'm afraid you'll have to answer to Goblin law for violating several treaties."

Several had immediately ran from the hall in fear of bloodshed. Harry watched Susan take a locket from her neck and use her wand tapping a rapid pattern on the locket.

"Neville. You in the mood to go anywhere?"

"Not really Harry. I have other plans."

"As do I." Turning to the headmaster, "No thanks. Tell your friends we are fine here." Harry saw several pull wands and were ready to cast spells.

Neville spoke to the crowd. "Everyone stop! This House Longbottom and House Potter business. If you want to watch, then watch and do so silently. But do not interfere. Susan, I expect you to pass that message on as well. Understood?"

"Yes my lord," she said curtseying without even realizing it. The whole time her wand was still tapping on the medallion in her hand.

Now Harry and Neville stood side by side. Wands in hand. "Dobby," Harry spoke conversationally. Dobby appeared and Harry bent and whispered in his ear. Fifteen seconds later Dobby popped out again.

"Now then wizards. You will come with us or suffer our wrath."

"What is your name warrior and your clan?"

"I am Swiftblade of Clan Gravel."

Neville interjected, "Swiftblade you were ordered in error. If you think Lord Potter and I are going anywhere with you. You are mistaken. Harry and I are quickly becoming angry. Either leave us be or go and get ten times your number to make it interesting."

Harry saw Dumbledore pull out his wand. "Choosing a side headmaster? Lord Longbottom already has declared this to be House Potter and Longbottom business. Your interference is not unexpected or particularly worrying for either of us."

The guys had seen many people entering the hall. Tables and chairs being moved silently to give everyone more room. The two sides waited for te other s to make a move. Harry and Nevile appeared nonchalant, but Dumbledore from his position 30' away could feel the power within the young lords waiting to be let forth like barely trained Pegasus waiting to be let loose. Amelia had arrived with 20 Aurors but had received the message not to interfere.

"Potter you arrogant ass I'll..."

He never got further Harry's wand pointed and spit and reoriented on Dumbledore in less than 2 seconds. He hadn't even turned his head. His aim perfect. The surprised professor stunned and thrown back another 10 feet before impacting on the wall. "Did not Lord Longbottom order everyone to silence? And not to interfere? Interupt at your own peril." Everyone, (except for Harry and Neville), was impressed by the speed, but few realized that it was all done silently as well.

"Well Swiftblade, either retreat or engage. Those are the only 2 options. What is it to be? Lord Potter and I have other plans."

Swiftblade cursed silently. He was told these were naught but juveniles and would collapse under enough pressure. What he saw was something completely different. They may have been young but they were warriors. As warriors they marked their targets and stood side by side brothers in arms. That in self was noteworthy in 2 so young. But when the shorter one cast the spell, his speed was prestigious and his eyes never left the primary target. His warriors behind him, all well trained stirred restlessly. They heard the conversation and caught the bravado in it but knew if nothing else one quick move of either wizards wands and they would die. "I have beside me the greatest wizard in the world. Do not over reach yourself."

Swiftblade and most of the others were surprised when the two snorted in disdain. Neville continued. "Swiftblade you're listening to the wrong voices. Dumbledore used to be the strongest wand in the world. He plays on past strength and uses too much of his familiars power. Your faith has put you in an untenable position."

Cursing silently again he caught the sound of chainmail jogging closer. Having worn it for so many years he could tell from the sound the number and distance of the other arriving Goblins. people once more began to move and speak as the new warriors came forward.

"We ordered silence!" Harry roared. If you can't be silent then leave."

Sixty more goblins jogged in and this time surrounded the combatants. Hogwarts silently expanded the Great Hall to accommodate the new bodies. Harry turned his body outward 30 degrees to cover more of the new force. He felt Neville turning the same in the opposite direction. Neville could feel his girls on his flank and knew that Luna and 'Mione would protect their lord.

Albus felt he needed to regain some face here. He had actually counseled against this action. But the goblins had made an offer too lucrative to pass up. "So Harry you and Mr. Longbottom feel you are a match for me?"

"We weren't going to press the issue but since you publically declared for the goblins. Then yes. Anyone that can feel the magic flowing could tell you the same. Neither of us can match your experience or spell knowledge but you can no longer command the power that you used to."

Amelia was more than impressed. She had been in a meeting with her senior Aurors when she received the distress call from Susan. Holding a hand up to stop the latest in a long series of useless reports she spelled out first in her head and then on a piece of parchment the message. "Goblins entering Great Hall with Dumbles. Trying to arrest Potter and Longbottom."

She put the alert out and gathered every available body. She had sent a runner to Fudge who immediately decided that today was the start of his vacation, and left everything in her hands. She quickly formulated plans as someone put St. Mungo's on alert as well when another message came from Susan. "Lords Longbottom and Potter in charge. State it's house business. No action without their permission."

She was miffed that she was about to follow orders from a 15 year old and several of her aurors said so.

"Okay smart arse. What's the situation there? How many Goblins are there and are how are they armed? Which wands are needed where? Are there any hurt?"

They were hesitant to answer but finally admitted they didn't know. "Exactly. 2 lords have just told us that they have everything well in hand. The fact they are 15 is immaterial. We will do it their way for now. Wands away and crowd control. If I decide to act differently once we arrive then we will."

She saw the 60 new goblins came in and blanched, but she actually saw Potter smile as they entered. You had to have been watching at the right time to catch it, but they were not only expecting the new Goblins, they were welcoming it. The speed, precision and power were well beyond her, and everyone else in the room as well. She knew they had Dumbledore's number as well. Especially when they mentioned his familiar. Many years of reading people told her, they revealed a deep secret that Albus didn't want to be mentioned.

The Goblin in charge of the newest group was closer to Harry so Neville nudged him to take the lead. His eyes never left his target. "The commander in charge of our latest visitors, who are you and what clan do you represent?"

"I am Axmaster of the Iron Clan, I speak Gringott's bank itself. Who are you warrior and your companion?"

"My companion is Lord Neville Longbottom and I am Lord Potter." He almost had said Harry Potter leaving out the lord part. Both Flitwick and Neville had yelled at him for some time explaining just how egregious an error that was.

"Well met Lord Potter and Lord Longbottom. Captain Swiftblade, by my command fall outside to await further orders."

The original goblins realizing they may live to see tomorrow readied to depart.

Neville once more lifted his voice. "Captain Swiftblade and his men until they are once more safe in Gringott's territory are under House Longbottom and House Potter protection. Interfere with them at your own peril." There was no doubt in anyone's mind that the Goblins were to be left alone.

"Winky," Harry called. She appeared at his side. He whispered for her to provide food and drink for the Goblins as they waited outside. Curtseying she departed as quickly as she came.

"Your thanks Captain for your professionalism," Neville said. "Food and drink will be waiting for you outside."

A few voices started to mutter as word of sustenance for the Goblins was heard. Harry roared, "No one has been granted leave to speak! This is house business. The next time you break this command you will pay for your indiscretion."

Someone more bold than smart, uttered sotto voce, "Yeah right." A second later the Slytherin lay on the floor unconscious at Luna's hand. His wand behind her ear.

"Thank you Lord Longbottom and Lord Potter. May your enemies blood flow with their gold to your coffers."

The original Goblins left leaving Dumbledore facing Harry. "And now headmaster. Now that your backup has left do you still wish to have Neville and I arrested?"

"I am sure that you misinterpeted something Harry. That is a mistake that young people make."

"We misintepreted nothing headmaster. And to you from this moment forward it is either Mr. Potter or Lord Potter as the situation merits. Now this is house business that you orchestrated putting many students in danger. Now leave us to speak with the commander."

"I am still headmaster, I will be treated with respect!"

"You are headmaster today," Neville answered. "We will see for how long."

Having been bearded in his own den Albus saw no further need to stay. With a snarl, he left and nearly ran to his quarters.

"Commander are we enemies?"

"No Lord Longbottom."

With a salute of their wands, both Harry and Neville returned the wands to the hidden holsters. "If you wish your troops can wait with the same protections as the other warriors. We can with you and any others you wish go to our suite where we can relax a bit."

With his command, the commander kept his lieutenant and ordered the rest outside.

Harry turned to Herminne. Do me a favor. Please invite Amelia as well as deputy headmistress to our rooms please."

A quick curtsey, "Yes my lord."

The show over they started walking to the apartment. Harry couldn't help but say, "Damn it I love it when they do that my lord stuff."

"Of course you do Harry. That's why they do it. It's all of the other stuff we have to go through to get them to do it that can be difficult."

"Yeah but a lot of that is fun too. Just can't let them know it."

Axmaster chuckled, "You 2 are still young. Wait until you have young ones of your own. That's when it gets really fun."

"Yeah, somehow I think you're telling a tall tale there. I'm content to wait a few years."

The introductions over. The magically altered room stretched to hold more people. Everyone had their beverage of choice and finger food appropriate for species and taste.

"Commander Axmaster. What was that about and are we in trouble with Gringott's?"

"When your elf arrived Lord Potter. He demanded to speak immediately with Bloodbringer. Bloodbringer was incensed and I was sent out with my men immediately. There are no charges against either you or Lord Longbottom. The Goblin nation thanks you for defusing that situation. That could have easily ended in a lot of blood spilled on both sides. However the council of 12 requests that you and Lord Longbottom remove the spells you have on the bank. The bank cannot function and we would be in violation of several treaties if we cannot function as required by said treaties."

"There is one small issue with that Commander. It is true I did cast one spell on 1 teller. I assume that curse had been removed." Both Axmaster and his lieutenant nodded.

That is the only spell I cast. I am not responsible for any others."

"You lie!" The lieutenant began. "You wizards are all alike."

Axmaster was immediately incensed when his lieutenant interupted. He was there to learn, not to speak. Neville forestalled Axmaster with a hand gesture. "Not all wizards lie. Not all Goblins are perfect as you think you are. I am really weary now. And my day is not through yet. Normally I am the most patient of people. Call me a liar again and you will die in the next heartbeat."

"Neville's right. I would love to chat and do this slowly but we have little time for it." While Neville's girls tried to calm him down, Harry continued. "You were briefed on the original incident?" Axmaster nodded so he continued. "Smalldirk insulted Lord Longbottom and myself just as your lieutenant did. He then recanted and said that he meant that it was house elves that he meant to insult and that clan Gravel would stand against all house elves. It is Dobby and Winky that the Clan Gravel contends with. You wish to resolve your issue then you do it with them."

Axmaster realized immediately this was a completely different issue. "Will you not order your house elf to remove the curse?"

You still misunderstand. Dobby is a free house elf that works for and is paid by myself. I cannot order him to do anything that involves his personal life. I stand now with him as my friend and always will. If the Goblin nation or Clan Gravel wants the spell gone it must be done through Dobby. Dobby, Winky, come here please."

Axmaster asked him, "Did you place the spell on the clan Gravel?"

"Yes sir Mister Axmaster sir. Winky and mes both."

"Would you take it off?"

"Sir littlest dirk insult every house elf. Said we is not as good as Goblinses. Well 2 useless house elfs close down great Goblins bank by themselves. You wants spell gone youse talk to Dobby and Miss Winky."

Dobby disappeared followed a moment later by Winky. "When you want them, call them. I think they have it in their heads that clan Gravel needs to find a way to appease them."

"I think you're right my lord. I will bring the information back to the council and we will deal with, by your permission with Dobby and Winky."

"One last thing. Your honor is not in question. So this is for those who ascribe to that blood purity nonsense whether goblin or human; if something should happen to Dobby and Winky I would be most upset."

The lieutenant who knew his life was all but over anyways couldn't keep his mouth shut. "And what of your gold wizard? If we close the bank down then we have all of your gold."

"I've lived most of my life without gold. I can live without it again. But if you decide to hurt my loves or my friends. I'll just take your gold off of your dead body. You had best leave lieutenant. You were granted the peace of our houses. I'm having trouble keeping that peace now."

The Goblins gone Harry sat heavily on the couch and closed his eyes resting in the arms of his loves. He didn't look but Neville and his ladies were doing the same thing. Neville remembered his company first. "Forgive us ladies. A very difficult couple of hours for Lord Potter and myself."

"There is nothing to forgive. You both upheld your honor and performed marvelously. House Longbottom and House Potter was honorably represented by the actions of their lords." The ladies stood to leave and Harry and Neville started to rise but was forestalled. "Stop. You all carried the load earlier. Get your rest and we will speak anon."

The two women were nearly out the door when Minerva turned back. "By the way. Do either of you own stock in Ogden's?"
"Not sure, 'Mione?"

"Somewhere near 20% I think."

"And I own about 33%. Is it important?"

"No no really. I've just been going through a lot of it recently, I wanted to know who I was making richer."

Neville looked at Daphne. "I'll take care of it love. Come on, let's go lay down," she said. The next 3 hours were spent in restful bliss.
-

Ever since his parent's had taken Potter's side Ron had been looking for away to get even. "Damn Potter, all the gold, Lord of a house, and now he takes my Hermy? I'll take him out and since she is his betrothed she will have all of his gold. Then she'll be free and want a real man. Then I'll have time to spend with the looney bint. Heh heh they'll love it. Won't be able to help themselves, because I am a pure blood descended from the Centaurs. I am the mayor bridge."

It had occurred for him to look up what mayor-bridge meant. But true to his nature he had decided the bints knew that stuff. "They'll take care of and know everything I need."

He had looked for weeks on a way that he could take Potter out. It was Seamus that pointed out that removing Potter was difficult and he was almost always with that "squib Longbottom."

Even the weasel wasn't dumb enough to come right out and say he was going to kill them. He hinted at it with his brothers and was more up front with Ginny. She blanched and told him not to be stupid that Harry would kill him easier than stepping on a flobberworm. But Ron was done with her too. He knew that she just wanted to shag the boy who lived. She was just a step up from "Potter's bints." But if he wasn't certain that his mother would kill him, he would do Ginny too, and the thought gave him several hours of diversion.

It wasn't but a week before the names were to be pulled from the goblet. Ron laughed in the common room while he was playing chess by himself. Everyone had long been tired of hearing Harry Potter this and Harry Potter that. More than one student had passed this on to MacGonagall and Mr. Weasley had Ron taken out for evaluations 3 days at a time to see a mind healer. Each time the healer had passed Ron, he was sane but chose to believe what he wanted to believe, without any signs of spells, charms or potions.

It was breakfast and Ron was waiting for his letter from his mother. While waiting he looked to see where the owls arrived from. While they came in from a window on one side of the room; on the other side there was a small door that allowed access to a small eave that ran along the entire edge of the Great Hall. He giggled and was deliriously happy for the whole day. Once more letters were written and the Deputy headmistress notified. But there was little anyone could do about a giggling student, even if his name was Ron Bilius Weasley.

Ron had seldom been to class for the past week. Each day despite detentions, all of which were Potter's fault, Ron would spend at the archery range. Getting better and better. With each shot he would quote the magic words Hermy had given him, "Venus must rise. It must rise in me, I am the mare-bridge!"

The girls implored the guys to sit near each other during the feast. They didn't tell them it was easier to protect them. The four girls had no thoughts of feasts or contests. Dinner could be eaten later.

Normally the guys walked with their lovelies, one on each arm. "Not today Harry. You and Neville proceed us, we will be right behind you."

"But.."

"Stop. Please this is important. We know what we're about."

He looked at Neville and he was having 2 fingers wagging in his face. He knew he wasn't going to win this one. And after the earlier mess with the Goblins, he wasn't really in the mood to start a fight over something trivial. "Fine, have it your way."

Hermione rewarded his good behavior with a kiss. He saw Neville being similarly rewarded. "Is Luna alright?"

Since they woke up, Luna had been in and out of her trance. In the silence of her mind Luna was cursing with every word she had heard Harry speak and then she made a few up. The gray mist descended on this event, since it was not directly concerning her there were breaks in gray haze that she tried to wade through and get a more exact reading of the events. "She's fine. She's working on something important, but we'll tell you later."

Not wanting to disturb her, but he couldn't just leave her like this. Kissing her gently, he then whispered, "I love you Luna Lovegood."

Her face a picture of intense concentration relaxed with his kiss and declaration. Dawn broke, the gray mist parted for a moment before obscuring again, but it was what she needed. "And I love you Harry Potter!" Her face alight with her love. "Come on, let's get some food in to you. Were going to have a fun night."

The other 3 girls relaxed and the guys tensed up. They always worried when Luna was going to have fun.

The two sat together, most people these days refused to sit near them. The 2 guys were courteous to everyone, but most people didn't know how to deal with the 2 lords. Even though in Neville and Harry's eyes they were still the same. It hurt a bit, but when you have four beautiful women around you a lot of that pain is mitigated. "Nev I hate to admit it, but these girls are up to something and I don't think it has anything to do with the cup."

"I'm with you Harry. Every time I'm near the four will change the conversation."

"Yeah, me too. Let's face it neither of us is an idiot. We both know the weasel is up to something."

"Of course. So the only question is, do we trust them or not? If we interfere it could seriously impede our relationship with the girls. And to be honest with you I am just now getting to a happy place with the girls. I don't want to have to rebuild if I don't have to."

"So the decision is already made and we put our faith in our girls."

"Right. Might as well eat and enjoy our meal."

The decision made, there was no reason not to enjoy themselves. It wasn't too much longer that the headmaster stood and was about to let the cup discharge and list the competitors.

Meanwhile-

The guys entered and had a small discussion. After a moment they started to eat. Each of the girls felt their lord's eyes on them. They could feel through the bonds, their guys faith in them.

"Okay Luna. What did you discover?"

"I discovered that even an idiot can have a good idea once in a while. I don't want you to look now in case he is watching. Running around the ceiling is an eave. It circles the room and a determined person can get a good shot at anyone. It may be easier for Trace and Daph to look in a bit. Rather than 'Mione and I. He keeps a close eye on her and sometimes on me."

"What spell will he use?"

She shook her head. He realized that had no chance of magic working. In a way it's kind of our fault. He's been practicing with the bow and arrow for many weeks now. He's quite good."

"Well shit. That's a well thought out plan. What are going to about it?"

Hermione's brain kicked into overdrive. There was no way that arse was going to hurt "her Harry, oh and Neville too." She corrected herself. "Okay, what about this?"
-

The goblet sputtered and multicolored flames leaped at odd moments from deep within the cup. One particularly colorful eruption had a piece of parchment spit out, and in origami fashion had the image of a man on a broomstick flew into Dumbledore's hand. "Our first contestant is...Viktor Krum of Durmstrang." There was much applause as Viktor was shown through to the anteroom, already dubbed the hero's room.

More sputtering and colors, for one brief moment a rainbow appeared before the cup spit forth another parchment. This one in the form of a spinning flower and danced/spun its way into Fumblemore's palm. "Representing Beauxbaton is the lovely Fleur Delacour." More applause less hearty than it was for Viktor.

Neville noticed that almost no one from Beauxbaton joined in the applause. She too was shown to the hero's room. "Okay that's something we need to fix," but Harry didn't get a chance to ask what before the cup once more vibrated and spewed forth colors and finally another parchment. A badger this time, claws extended, the origami made as if it was digging its way to the headmaster.

"Our final contestant, representing Hogwarts is our very own Cedric Diggory."

The applause obviously much louder for Diggory and he to was shown to the ante room. Dumbledore was making his closing remarks and about to announce the date of the first task, when the cup making the loudest noise yet spewed forth with great eruption one last origami. This one a lightning bolt that literally shot its way into the headmaster's palm. The Hall was silent for a moment at the surprise. "And apparently a fourth contestant, Harry Potter."

A voice cut through the sudden confusion. "Harry Potter, Neville Longbottom! Venus must rise!"

Harry and Nev had an inkling; well better than an inkling actually. But with the confusing echoes coming from the ceiling and the susrrus of surprised conversation, it was difficult to locate the source and the danger.

Two "pings were heard one immediately after the other. The voices in the hall uncertain whether this was part of the event or just another Potter prank. The guys felt several spells fly at once. They were on guard as well raising shields. But it would have been too little too late. Instead of two arrows, 2 splats of paint erupted on the boy's backs. A couple of immobillize and accio spells, brought the frozen weasel from the rafters locked up, angry as hell bow and still another arrow notched ready to fly.

In a moment's time the deputy headmistress, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley and the four girls were on the scene. Her call for quiet wasn't as loud as Harry's the day before, but even more effective. "You girls were right. Lord Potter, Lord Longbottom please turn and show us your back."

The parents could plainly see the red splotches both dead center of their backs. "That was some very good shooting Mr. Weasley." Speaking to the Ronsicle. "If it wasn't for the fact that it is 2 counts of attempted murder and counts of Line theft. I might have tempted to give you points. However this is a much more serious issue." She turned to Harry. "Lord Potter while this is serious, it wouldn't be right to keep everyone else waiting on you. Does Lord Longbottom have the authority to act for House Potter?"

Harry closed his eyes and rubbed his temple. He heard the headmaster complaining and calling him again, he really felt like telling the old bastard to go to hell, as the back ground conversation started again but reined in his anger, "Of course he does. If you don't mind Nev?"

He clapped Harry on the back. "Of course Harry not a problem. Go take care of business."

Harry thanked him again and preceded the headmaster into the anteroom. The contestants were confused and wondered at the delay. The visiting heads angry but not as half as angry as Snape and the headmaster. "Took your time Lord Potter, making us wait on you."

Harry wasn't it the mood for Dumbles attitude, not after the day he had. "Forgive me for delaying you all. It's not every day someone tries to assassinate you and your best friend."

"Potter you are an attention seeking baby that whines for constant attention."

Only the Hogwarts family realized that this was pure Snape/Potter relationship dynamics. Everyone else was stunned by his vitriol. "Okay. I am going to say this at the outset. You are speaking with Lord Harry Potter. I am Potter of Potters. Be careful what you say because I will hold you accountable, and I pretty much don't give a shit what some in here have to say." Since he was staring at Snape daring him to open his mouth, everyone knew who he was addressing. "For the rest of you, many of you were in here and didn't see it. The cup spewed forth a fourth challenger, me. And before you ask; no, I didn't enter myself or ask anyone to to do so. At the same time, Ronald Weasley attempted to assassinate myself and Lord Longbottom, and that is the reason for the delay. Questions?" He asked speaking mostly to the other champions. He stepped towards the other three. "Seriously folks. I don't need the excitement, I don't need the gold, and that eternal glory is just so much shit." He didn't know if the others believed him, but he wasn't going to worry about it either. "Sorry everyone, I'm done. Headmaster. Is there any way that we can cancel this, throw everyone else's name back in and redraw?"

The brakes off, the other headmasters complained abut Hogwarts getting 2 bites of the apple while they only had 1. Harry reiterated that Cedric was the Hogwarts champion and he was only participating under duress and also mentioned that the other schools should be able to choose an additional student each so that everyone could have a second try.
The headmaster cursed at this idea and all of the adults began to argue back and forth while Harry sat and joined the other contestants who were almost amused by the ranting and raving of the "adults."

Meanwhile...

The deputy headmistress stood between the three houses. Neville was flanked by his ladies, Hermione and Luna stood to the side, together. He and Harry had discussed this of course. They had hoped that it wouldn't come to pass. They both agreed that they couldn't leave an enemy at their back even if it was once a friend. They could have demanded sanctions the last time. This time they would have to demand his execution being the lesser of the other option, a trip to high security cells in Azkaban, a slow death and most don't last a year. "Lord Weasley, as prescribed by the old forms. It is the contention of House Longbottom and with my Lord Potter's let, House Potter, that a most egregious attack has been made by a member's of your house against us. Do you dispute this?"

A solemn Arthur and a crying Molly bowed and curtsied to the young lord. As the aggrieved party, especially one of most Ancient and Noble house, Neville would not bow to either Weasley. Their children arrayed behind them, no one found any honor in this. One determined person could with a simple act destroy 3 families and perhaps set the wizarding world in arms for decades. "No milord, there is no dispute. My youngest son, Ronald Bilus Weasley did with malice aforethought, attempt to injure you and Lord Potter."

"Is there any dispute that House Longbottom and House Potter did meet with you in the spirit of brotherhood to forestall this attack?"

"No my lord."

"What remedy then does House Weasley offer the houses of Longbottom and Potter?"

This was it, this the critical moment. "The House Weasley completely capitulates and will submit to any demand made my lord."

Draco watched and imagined his father in that situation. His father would be unable to hide his glee and would have demanded death for all. Instead, he saw Lord Longbottom solemn, sad about the whole affair. And tears standing in the eyes of the four ladies. Small differences with staggering implications.

Neville hesitated a full 30 seconds and then resigned himself. He only wished that Harry was here to share the burden. "Very well Lord Weasley with deep regret I demand the House Weasley.."

"A moment my lord," Daphne interrupted.

Neville was immediately angry. His lips pressed tight on one another almost white from the amount of effort he had to put in not screaming at her. "What." He grunted.

"Forgive me, my lord. It is not our intent to cause you greater pain." The four girls came to the front each facing Lord Longbottom in a deep curtsey, none even daring to raise their eyes at the furious lord.

Softer he repeated, "What my love? Rise ladies." The girls stood eyes still downcast. "What would you have me do?"

Molly held her hand to her mouth chewing on a knuckle. Minerva had told her the girls were going to ask for Ronald's life. Not for his sake, nor for House Weasley but to spare the 2 young men from having to put a friend to death. A live slave better is than a dead son.

"My Lord Longbottom," Hermione started. "It is our plea that you turn this matter over to us, the ladies Potter and Longbottom."

"Lady Daphne, Lady Tracey do you agree to this burden?"

"Yes my lord."

"Lady Luna. Do you agree to this burden as well?"

"Yes my lord."

He paused for just a moment longer, "Very well then. At the request of the ladies of House Longbottom and House Potter, final adjudication of this matter is left to them."
"Lord Weasley. Do you acknowledge?"

"Yes my lord."

"Deputy Headmistress. Do you witness?"

"Aye my lord I witness the adjudication of Ron Bilius Weasley is left to the ladies of House Potter and House Longbottom."

"Very well, let it be so." Without further word, Neville strode from the Great Hall. All those standing bowed and curtsied to the departing lord. Out of the great Hall his face still a mask, he whispered. "Misty."

"Yes my Lord Neville."

"Get me to my room." She grabbed his hand to pop him to his room. She closed the door and the young man hugged the pillow wishing it was one his girls. Tears finally allowed to fall.

"Lord Weasley. The other ladies and I have decided. We do not do this out of some past friendship, nor out of hope of continued association. The House of Longbottom and the House of Potter demands that Ronald Bilius Weasley is surrendered to our joined house as a slave from this moment to perpetuity or prepare for blood feud." Daphne's ice blue eyes were alight with intensity. She and Trace felt the pain and anguish from her love. That this piece of filth could do this to those he called friends was beyond conscionable.

"The House Weasley submits to the will of House Potter and House Longbottom. It is our fondest wish for reaffirmation of friendship in the near future. May we bid our son farewell?"

Daphne looked at the other girls. They all shrugged imperceptibly. "Very well, but it will be done here and now. The slave formally known as Ronald Weasley has other duties to perform."

The girls had a quick conference. Hermione and Luna knew they were suffering and agreed to handle the weasel. Hermione released him while both her and Luna kept their wands out and ready. Hermione silently accio'd his wand.

Molly and Arthur openly cried as did many others in the hall. The twins and Ginny were fighting valiantly to hold their tears in. Rather than kiss his former family goodbye he yelled, "It's all Potter's and Longbottom's fault!"

"That's it!" Hermione wasn't going to hear anymore. With another flick and wave he was once more frozen.

"You had better go. You do not want to see this next part." Luna couldn't help but feel for their loss.

Hermione waited until the family had left. "Weasel. Eyes on me." She demanded.

His eyes showed anger. "You think your anger will help you? Watch slave." She took his wand and broke it front of his eyes, spit on it and threw at his feet. "We will break your will as easy as we did your wand. Come slave we have instructions for you."

Luna turned to Minerva. "Please we have need of our lord."

"I will send him immediately, Lady Luna." More than one person muttered, "Damn those are 4 very scary witches."

"And then they kept repeating the same arguments. At some point I had enough and got up and told them to let me know what they decided. The other three agreed and I came here. MacGonagall told me to hurry my narrow ass up here so I came as soon as I could. What happened to Ron? I didn't want to leave him that burden, but Dumbles is really slipping." He rushed everything out. There was so much emotion. The bond was really helping him keep and even keel. He decided to focus on his loves, they would let him know when he needed to know.

-
Ron woke up in a strange room naked. It had a bed, table and chair and in 1 corner a bucket. Around all of those items, dividing one part of the room from another was a solid red line. Across the line apart from him were two couches, chairs and tables. He stood and looked for clothes or any other covering except for the wool blanket that scratched the skin. He tried to step across the line and every moment he spent in contact with the line seemed to fill his body with ice. He even tried to force himself across, but the line impeded him and moved him backwards. He could will himself forward but it was in slow motion and forward progress eventually stopped. He screamed and a short time later found himself once more lying on the bed. He cried himself hoarse but no one answered, no one there at all. Time had no meaning, he woke and slept, evacuated his bowels and repeated it. Soon, he got tired of calling. He was alone.

The two guys sat on the couch, the girls on a longer couch across from them. They had already passed word to Minerva, none would be in class again today. They were so far ahead of everyone else anyways. The bond helped them learn at an accelerated pace and provided them with the power needed. "My lords," Daphne began.

Surprisingly it was Neville that objected. "Is the formality necessary, Daph?"

"Yes my lord. If only for a short time. We need to report on the final disposition of the student formally known as Ronald Weasley."

Neville quickly informed Harry the girls wanted to take care of the situation. "Very well lady. What was your decision?"

"He is now a slave to House Potter and House Longbottom. The other ladies and I know you are both kind men, quick to help and first to forgive sins against you."

"Neither of us are in the mood to forgive."

"That is today Lord Potter. You know yourselves. You might relent in a week, month, or year. That is why we ask for your word, the slave is our property, the other ladies and myself. Free to use, or not use. His duties, punishments and everything else we want solely our responsibility."

"So say you all?"

"Yes my Lord Longbottom." They all nodded. Harry and Neville looked at one another. The were already committed to trusting the girls.

"Fine. So be it."

"Except," Neville said raising a finger, "unless your treatment of the slave is in violation of the basic rights for slaves. But three of you are well versed in those. I will bring Lord Potter up to speed, and you do the same for Lady Hermione. Anything else?"

"Yes milord," Tracey said "We want copies of your memories. We will keep them as a reminder of his treatment of his 'friends" Then she called for Misty. She instructed them all in the giving of memory copies. She labeled them and sent them away in a safe place.

"Anything else?"

"Last thing," Hermione said. "Your robes from last night. Neither of you will ever wear those again. Winky!" The small elf appeared in front of her mistress. I want these framed. I want the color blotch in the center of the frame, hung where we, our lord's wives can see it. It will be a reminder to us to always guard our husband's backs."

The others agreed to this not having discussed that before.

"Did you want to see him, one last time? The future is silent on this either way."

Neville and Harry looked to one another each minutely shaking their heads. "No, we have no desire to. Ronald Weasley is dead."

The door opened, the four women walked in silently and sat on the couches and chairs. None were looking forward to this, all knew it was necessary. Ron sat up in bed. He hadn't known if it had been a day or a month or a year. He didn't remember eating so it couldn't have been too long. His stomach reminded him that it needed to be filled. "Hermy! you came to rescue me."

"Quiet slave. You address us as mistress. No one is here to rescue you, your actions have spoken for you. You are worthless and deserve nothing but contempt."

His mouth fell open surprised. "But I am your friend, help me here. I know I made a mistake, but its Harry's fault. You see, he..."

Luna gestured and the power of speech was lost to him. "Did you not hear your mistress tell you to be quiet? Stand up and drop the blanket."

Tracey took over. "When your mistresses enter you will always stand in our presence unless giving leave to do otherwise."

He tried to mouth, that he was naked but his red face from exerting himself still did not make sound come forth. He still sat refusing to stand, itchy blanket tightly wrapped round him. Daphne said, "Winky, blanket please."

And the slave was left without any covering. "Now stand!" The normally kind Luna snapped.

But he ignored them. If he could ignore his mother yelling at him these 15 years a few bints screaming wasn't going to bother him. He laughed and mouthed, "Make me."

Four wands snapped, spit and were hidden in three seconds time. All four cast stinging hexes at exposed skin. He jumped and tried to rub all the injured parts at once. He tried to sit but once more was hexed. Finally, even he realized it was futile and stood. Tracey waved and speech was granted to him again.

"We will try this again. When your mistresses come in, you stand and bow to us and ask how you can serve us."

Hungry, very sore and certainly bewildered. Ron decided to play it their way; for now. "Hello mistresses. How may I serve you?"

They ignored him. Hermione asked, "Are all pure bloods like him? He seems a bit on the smallish side." Ron stood red-faced certain parts of his anatomy realizing the attention, tried to stand up to the attention.

"Obviously, we can only speak for what I myself have seen. And our Lord Longbottom is just that, long. It seems as if our slave is not only lacking in brains but magical ability and umm length as well. How about your Lord Harry?"

Hermione sat forward comparing the two. "My, my my no." She said holding her hands apart. He voice was incredulous, "Are you sure there're no spells on the slave? I've seen infant boys larger."

Daphne smirked, "Hell Bulstrode is larger." She looked at the other two, "Really, ask Trace." Who nodded in agreement.

"She's pretty proud of herself too." She turned her attention, "Would you rather us turn you into a girl? You would look like shit but you would at least have the right equipment for your gender."

The slave blanched, he liked being a guy. He was almost certain they were teasing him about his length. His mother had always told him, it was cute. Before he could answer though, his mistresses stood and looked at him. "This was your first lesson, learn it well. We can turn you into a girl. We can turn you into a mule. We can keep you naked, we can do almost anything we want, as long as you are kept alive. You live to serve us. And we do not want to see that."

Luna called for Winky. "Winky dress him in a pillow case. Bring him to the kitchens. He is to scrub the plates and cups and bowls muggle fashion. Keep him away from all elves and protect yourself always. If he tries anything then return him here for punishment. If he performs adequately then he should be allowed to eat, but not overeat. Those days are gone."

"Yes mistresses." She snapped her fingers and the slave had a large faded blue pillowcase with one large hole for his head and 2 for his arms. Another snap and Winky and he were gone.

Hermione fell back on the couch, in tears. This was the hardest thing she ever had to do. She couldn't let her Harry see her like this. The other girls comforted her. It definitely was not a good week.

The council of twelve met in the largest meeting hall. Only those Goblins certified to be free of spells were allowed in. The council of twelve was made up of 3 of every clan at this Gringott's. Clan Gravel, Clan Blackrock and Clan Iron. The senior priest or priestess of the Goddess, the senior Healer, and Ragnok.

Without ceremony, Ragnok opened the meeting. "Tell us Commander Axmaster. What happened at Hogwarts yesterday?"

Axmaster had never been one to moderate his speech no matter who he was speaking to. "Whoever ordered Captain Swiftblade to Hogwarts, is an idiot. They thought they had a great mage with them and that he held sway over the two young lords. They were completely wrong and nearly fermented another goblin wizard war. By the way, Captain Swiftblade deserves a commendation for his actions yesterday. He didn't lose his head when he was faced with overwhelming odds, and returned with all of his men."

"Overwhelming odds? He was faced with 2 juvenile wizards and had Dumbledore supporting him. He is of my clan and I think he should be whipped for his performance."

Axmaster didn't bat an eye. "It is exactly that attitude that has gotten Gringott's into this situation. You moronic piles of dragon dung throw warriors lives away uselessly for causes that can't be won. Yes overwhelming. If I had to engage those two Lords I might have been able to escape with some of my command. Not to mention the cattle that observed, but both lords had their mates there. The Captain was surrounded the entire time."

"I saw one spell thrown, silently, blindly, and without no effort whatsoever, you better not fall for the same mistake their headmaster did. These are powerful, well connected young lords. It is because of those warriors, that there is a solution to the problem on the horizon; and before I get to it, this is not Clan politics either. Lieutenant Rockgrabber of my own clan nearly ended things before they could be fixed. Tell you what, you clan leaders take that useless lieutenant and give him to the grovleing clan, I'll take Swiftblade and all of his men into ours. If I ever see Rockgrabber on the field of battle with me again I will kill him myself. It would save more Goblin lives that way. And yes I know whose whelp he is as well."

Ragnoc always liked Axmaster, He caused some problems with his ignoring political implications, but you always knew where you stood. "What is this solution you see on the horizon?"

"Lord Longbottom admitted to casting the first spell.."

Another voice overrode him and yelled, "Then he should have his vault confiscated as a penalty."

"Are you the same moron that odered Captain Swiftblade? A couple of things wrong with that. First, no wand was used, you'experts' will have to tell me if that violates the the treaty. It is my understanding the treaty was written to include wands and staves and such. Otherwise any magic including goblin magic would not be allowed in Gringott's at all. Secondly, and more importantly, while Gringott's has the right to confiscate vaults in certain situations, sometimes it is not practical to. The Longbottom's have other houses that would certainly retaliate. How about you losing the gold of the Davis', the Greengrass' certainly the Potter's, the Black's, and the Lovegood's with the Bones' MacGonagall and other smaller houses potentially lost."

Since that represented well over a quarter of the bank's value, that would put the bank in an untenable situation.

"And that is beside the point." He turned to the irritating Goblin. You interrupt me again and we will have an honor duel today." Once again he refocused on Ragnok and the other true powers in the Goblin community. "That original spell by Lord Longbottom was removed before any situation of consequence occurred. What we were not told was that Clan Gravel through one of their tellers, declared house elves to be an inferior species and then declared that it was all house elfs that Clan Gravel decided to go to war with."

"It is only me through the consent of this council, that can declare war Commander."

"Tell that to the groveling clan as Lords Potter and Longbottom refer to them. The teller did not distance himself from his clan when he met with them and stated that his insult was for all house elfs,and the house elf of Lord Potter. It was those house elfs that have attacked clan Gravel and those house elfs that we must negotiate with."

The priest clarified. "How many house elfs were in involved in causing this to Clan Gravel?"

"Two. Both house elves bonded to Lord Potter."

"Did you ask Lord Potter to order the house elves to remove the curse?"

"He could not exalted one. While both House elves are bonded with House Potter, they are employed by house Potter and receive wages. It was made clear to me the elves are independent on this. House Potter stands with them, but as one friend stands with another. My assessment is this. You want this to end? You negotiate with Lord Potter's house elves."

Commander Axmaster stood in the center of the room waiting for further questions but saw none forthcoming and the council broke into loud debate. Heard in the chamber was, "only house elves," and "order Potter to fix this."

Ragnok brought the hammer side of his axe down onto the heavy stone table in front of him. Few wanted to challenge him when he wielded his weapon, it meant that you're tired of life and wanted to go with your ancestors. "Clan Gravel by your teller's foolish action and then by your own inadvisable attempt to cow the two young lords. You have endangered Gringotts itself. There will be repurcusions for your clan soon."

Silence, it was clear that debate now was foolish, to the extreme. He had made his mind up. "Further, punishment of a young lord that is not in a violation of any treaty would then bring Gringott's to ruin. There will be no sanctions against house Longbottom. Finally, if we wish for this curse to end we must negotiate with a party that was wronged by Gringott's, I am told that at least one of the elves has his own vault?"

"Yes my lord."

"Very well then, how do we get a hold of These elves?"

"Very easy my lord Ragnoc." "Dobby, Winky! Can you come to us please?"

Suddenly in front of them appeared two house elfs. Both were dressed, far better than their kin and these elves stood tall and straight and greeted their caller. "Hello Mr. Ax. Youse be calling Dobby and Winky?"

Dobby and Winky nodded at Ragnoc. Some voices of protest rose when they wouldn't bow or curtsey, but Ragnoc forestalled them with a look. "I understand a teller of this bank insulted you and you retaliated against the teller and his clan. Is that correct?"

"Dobby wants me to speak for him. Yes Mr. Ragnoc sir it was both Dobby and me that did all of that to you. The great Dobby wanted me to point out, 2 lowly house elfs got bank to close and no one really hurt. What would happen if the Great Dobby really angry? Would grovellers even be here?"

More excitement broke out. Basically, Winky had told them if they really pissed Dobby off, he could have killed every single Goblin and gotten away with it. They were angry because they knew he was right. Once more the hammerhead hit the table, once more silence fell.

Of the Gravel triad, one of them was unable to keep his mouth shut. It was on his order that the Goblins invaded Hogwarts, he was trying to bluff his way past this situation. "And if we were to have you executed right now?"

The two elves laughed and Dobby once more spoke. "The Great Harry Potter said that a groveller would say that. He told Dobby and Winky that if anything happened to them he would destroy the bank all by his onesie."

Ragnoc had a sudden vision of the bank nothing but a smoldering ruin. All of the important things were underground safe in the vaults, but the building itself was a symbol and an angry lord destroying the symbol would be bad for everyone. His hammer fell a third time, he had seldom had to use it once. "There will be no talk of anyone hurting anyone else. Any further outbursts will have your body yearning for its head."

He turned to the elves, "What must we do to get this curse off?"

Winky once more spoke, her diction better than Dobby's, "Grovel Clan must say sorry to all house elfs, house elfs not worthless, 2 by thems only closed down bank. Dobby says the Great Harry Potter has lord afraid to die peoples attacking him again. Dobby and Winky wants someone to help Lord Harry and Lord Nevy train along with their ladies. Teach them goblin fighting."

"Anything else?"

"Yes Dobby and Winky wants Goblin law passed, Any elf wanting to get his own vault can and keep it apart from whatever family they is bonded with. And house elf equal to goblins and wizards."

Ragnoc wanted it all spelled out, "And what do we get?"

"Dobby and Winky will remove curse but will have to walk through Goblins tunnels to do it. We promise not to do it again unless someone else wants to war with house elfs.

Only others who know curse are good friends of Dobby and Winky theys not be telling."

Ragnoc looked up and down to the other councilors, no one wanted to ask any questions either satisfied or afraid of sudden neck pain.

"Thank you for coming. We will discuss this amongst ourselves and call you soon. Will that be alright?"

Winky answered, "A-okay Mr. Ragnoc. We's be waiting!" After a moment the two disappeared leaving all eyes on Ragnoc.

The slave stared at the ceiling in the middle of the night. Not for the first time, he shed tears. It took, he didn't know how long to realize that he needed other people. No one would talk to him other than his mistresses. And they only to issue commands. After the first day, after he had been fed, he tried once more to rebel. He sighed as he remembered yelling how unfair they were to him. The slave had refused to work and refused to do anything. When he disobeyed one of the elves, (they all looked alike to him,) they reported it to their mistress. One of the Slytherin bints came in and yelled but he ignored her, as well as the stinging hexes.

"It looks like you can learn slave. You have learned to take a little pain, and grown a little backbone. Good! Here's what we are going to do. We had a debate amongst ourselves whether we would whip you or not."

His eyes grew big at the possibility, he had forgotten he could be whipped. It was legal, he remembered one less than 40 lashes. It was in the lessons he learned when he was young.

"But we're not going to do that this time. Just to remind you why you are a slave; it was you who tried to kill our lords. They offered you friendship, who do you think paid for all of those visits to the mind healers? They brought in the best doctors first from the continent and then from America. They forgave you your many abuses of their friendship, but still you persist in thinking you are the injured party. Tell me slave, everyone else in all of Hogwarts agrees that you are wrong. Everyone! Perhaps its time for you to examine yourself. You will have plenty of time to do so. Now, because of your refusal to work you will not eat at least today. We will see how determined you are when your belly rubs your backbone."

Two days later, when his pot wouldn't empty itself and when his belly rumbled angrily wanting to be fed, he called for the elf, but no one came. He wasn't sure how long but it was after another long sleep and another bowel movement, the elf had him work. This time cleaning the thestral paddock. But he had a back bone now, and even if everyone else thought he was wrong, that's okay, someone would make an error somewhere.
-

"Dragons. Did someone fall into a vat of firewhiskey? Dragons. They are going to throw a bunch of teenagers at one of the most dangerous creatures in the world?"

Hagrid had shown him while he was hiding under his invisibility cloak and Olympe. Harry smiled at Hagrid's attempt to woo the half giantess. From Harry's perspective she looked interested in the big guy as well. Of course there was the other woman that the girls wanted to bring on the mix.

"What's with all of the triads all of a sudden?" Harry asked himself, niether Luna or Hermione knew why, but they were determined to make it happen. Luna was admant that Harry had to arrange a meeting with the two giants and the other lady. The thought of it both intrigued and repulsed him. "What was that muggle saying? Oh yeah. Whatever Luna wants, Luna gets." Funny how that bleeds over to Hermione as well, and Harry was not completely sold on the saying, it sounded almost right. But it kept peace in the house.

It was the next morning while they were eating the owls brought the morning mail. A Hogwarts owl landed in front of Cedric. He untied the note and looked at Harry. Harry nodded and put his hand up signifying truth before a small white missle interuppted the silent communication and started to beat Harry around the face, shoulders and neck with her wings nipping and scratching him. "I'm sorry, Hedwig I really am."

Unmollified the owl barked at him for 30 seconds straight punctuating her remarks with pecks and claws on his arms.

"I understand girl, I'm sorry. Of course I love you."

She continued to berate him, while the whole table watched. The four girls very amused by the sight. The twins almost crying with laughter as the snowy owl harassed him.
"I will never do it again. I promise. But I did have my reasons."

Calming a bit, she continued to bark, but not as loudly.

"You're right 3 pieces of bacon is a fair punishment." Taking the last 3 pieces of bacon off his plate he fed her while the girls took her place.

"You know she's right Harry," Hermione said. She was actually impressed with Harry's bond with the owl. "You could have asked any one of us. It would have saved you some pain."

"Hedwig felt I was cheating on her using a house owl. I didn't want anyone to know I sent the message though."

Daphne couldn't help herself, "and how did that work out Potter?"

"You know Longbottom, I know that sweet Daphne would never say that on her own," which earned a smirk from everyone. "I'm sure that came from your bond. You do realize I still hate you, right?"

Neville smirked again while taking a bite of his toast and jam. "Yeah, prove it Potter."

Everyone laughed at him, even Hedwig paused from the bacon to look him in the eye and barked at him. "You're all traitors."

The classes for the week went smoothly for the most part. Harry skipped the ones he wanted to. As a champion he didn't have to show up for classes if he was training. That was all the justification he needed. He continued to skip the History of Magic and Potions with Batman. He wasn't slacking off though, he was either in library learning all there was to know about dragons, or running and exercising outside. The weather was getting cold. Not for the first time he cursed not having any gymnasium in the castle.

Friday rolled around, it was a Hogsmeade weekend, one he was looking forward to. Luna interuppted his reverie. "Harrry!"

Luna had been a little quiet this week. He could feel her fear, and Hermione's too, over the bond. He was certain that the girl had been trying to "see" everything and had been running into the grey mist. So when she called like that and hopped on his lap, once more heedless of the "boys," or maybe she meant to get his attention that way. Either way, "Yes Luna."

"I don't want to eat downstairs, I want to eat here."

"I don't see a problem with that, we can have Winky whip something up."

She shook her head. "No, Harry. Make me a pizza!"

Hermione looked up from her book, "Ooo that sounds like a good idea! Yeah Harry make us a pizza!"

"What's a pizza?" Trace asked just entering with Neville and Daphne.

"It's what Harry is making us for dinner." Luna answered punctuating her jumps on Harry with kisses all over his face.

"Harry that's a great idea. Thanks brother."

"Neville, I never said..."

"What you're not making us pizzas? My girls have never had pizza before. Why would you deprive them?"

After a fake sigh, "You know Nev..."

"Yeah, yeah. I hate you too. I want mine with ham and pineapple."

Harry found the baking to be carthitic. With the help of the elves, everything went a lot quicker. He even managed to get the elves to make a pizza with him for them, including their favorite toppings. Apparently butterscotch was fine as long as it was baked and not fermented. However he refused to try it as he added a little basilisk meat. It smelled horific, but the elves loved it.

They were in a large booth drinking butterbeers in Madam Rosmertas. It was nice to get out of the castle , but there wasn't a lot to do. They had all heard the older kids talking; by the time you reached 6th or 7th year, it was old hat. Harry was waiting on the twins, and he was introspective, only half listening to everyone. One of his plans focused on a Weasley modified substance. He had been reluctant to speak to them about the task after the incident with Ron; but the twins allayed his fears. "Harry. You and Neville were victims. You made every effort to save him."

Fred had finished, "It all comes back to personal responsibility. And as far as we are concerned you are still an honorary Weasley."

It took a lot for him not to tear up when he heard it. Even again as his reverie was interuppted.

"Harry, Harry!"

"Oh sorry, I was.. elsewhere. What's up?"

"Daph was saying how she wished she could have another piece of pizza."

"Well we could ask the elves to.."

"No." Luna said interupting Neville. "Hermione. Harry is broken. We need to fix him."

"Sounds good to me." With a predatory smile 'Mione attacked Harry for a solid minute and then let Luna have a go at him. After 2 minutes, while the other girls and Neville grinned, Harry's brain caught up with the real world. "Okay. Ladies feel free to fix me that way anytime. Where were we?"

The conversation got interesting. Soon a plan was hashed out to look for building or even just land in Hogsmeade.

"You know what else," Harry said warming up to the idea. "Look how crowded it is in here."

"Well there 'Mione. What do you think of skee-ball or pool tables, or even pinball machines."

Hermione opened the bottomless bag and pulled out note paper and an inkpen. Without even looking up she answered the unasked question. "Muggle pens and paper is so much quicker and neater. I don't have to wait for the ink to dry. So from now on unless I am turning in homework, it's going to be the muggle way."

About then then twins showed up. "Hi Harrikins. What's up?"

Fred chimed in, "What's Hermione scribbling?"

"Oh she's just making us some money. Soon she'll even have a business plan written."

"Shit Harry!" She turned the page as she began to work on the business plan. He loved pushing her buttons.

"The Red Menace in stereo. We've been waiting on you."

"We just finshed testing it a few days ago."

"Testing it! I told you it was dangerous. Are you alright?"

"We never"

"test the really dangerous products,"

"on ourselves."

"Fred and George continued the twin speak. "No there are..."

"Safe ways. You were right."

"Good instincts, with that strengthening solution it is now 10 times more addictive and at least 25 times more potent."

"Harry." Hermione interrupted looking at him askance. "If that's what I think it is, you can't use that on anyone!"

"I wouldn't do that 'Mione. Trust me." He smiled his Harry smile and rewarded her with a kiss.

Finishing up, the eight of them once more took a tour of Hogsmeade Village. This time looking for property or land. It was just the diversion they all needed.