A lot of people are enjoying this- As am I.
I have read a couple of guest commentaries - still mentioning ch. 7 - I once again apologize - there were some errors made - but I believe the vast majority has seen it. If nothing else- works - I'll be glad to PM chapter 7 for anyone.
Please enjoy and let us myself and Mr. Beta know how we are doing.
bob
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The annual New Year's eve party at Longbottom Manor was a gala event that many tried to get an invite to. There were plenty of people from "the old guard," but since this was Neville's first party as Lord Longbottom, there were plenty of the "next gen" in attendance as well. That meant that Neville and Harry were surrounded by love and friends, but also politics would forever more take a part in their lives and there were plenty of "enemies" near as well. The Malfoy's, Nott's, Bulstrode's, and even Dumbledore and the Minister and his retinue were in attendance.
The guys and their gals socialized with everyone and had kind words and smiles for all. Even when some short dumpy woman sneered at them. Harry didn't remember her name, she was some kind of administrator for Fudge. It was nothing that she said, more her condescending attitude as she said it and Fudge didn't even bat an eyelash. Her, "It's hard to tell at least from first glance whom the pure-bloods are;" left a sour taste in most mouths.
Some chuckled knowing her true meaning at the thinly veiled insult. And again at the follow up comment concerning muggle tuxedos. Most others ignored her, seeing as she was obviously in Fudge's camp. Tracey's rejoinder of, "Blood status and high intelligence quotients having no correlation, especially with those present," was equally received.
Harry danced most of the evening. He even got the chance to dance with Susan, Hannah, and Pansy before finally getting his future mother in law on the dance floor. Her long black strapless gown was similar in style to Hermione's taupe, but the color closely matched Luna's gown. Harry strongly suspected Luna's gown was the same as the one from the ball charmed black. It still had the same gauzy look and subtle colors flashing from the underskirt. All of them wore stunning earrings and necklaces to accentuate their look. All borrowed from the Potter vault. For his part, he was stunned by his girl's beauty and they knew it because he told them and gave plenty of hugs and chaste kisses. Harry and Dan were both dressed in the traditional muggle tuxedos, while Neville opted for the traditional dress wizard robes.
Dan and Emma moved gracefully through their waltz. Long practiced, they were easily the best dancers on the floor.
"Look my dear. Isn't it nice to see muggles join us for our traditional festivities." This was said at a volume designed for all to hear.
Dan and Emma stopped dancing and faced the two. "I didn't realize that Augusta had included you as hosts," Emma rejoined.
"And it is discourteous to speak the name of the hostess without her title."
"And to call attention to it loudly in front of others just as discourteous," Dan answered with an edge. "However, since the Lady Augusta did us the honor of dispensing with her title. Not discourteous at all. However, perhaps you are not in her social circle so not entitled the familiarity."
A few "oohs," were heard. Malfoy's face became red. "Some muggles should be wary, lest they risk offending their betters."
Dan and Emma drew closer, but their voices rose in volume. Emma answered, "I see no risk." Her eyes were flashing with anger. "Nor do I see any of my "betters."
Dan continued, "If we offend someone we will apologize if warranted. Otherwise, we will let nature and events happen as they may."
Lucius' voice got dangerous. "You bank much on your future half-blood son in law's strength, you risk much with your tone muggle."
Dan and Emma laughed, scornfully. "We wouldn't bother the children with this. They have enough on their plates as it is. I'll tell you what, Malfoy isn't it?" Once more Dan measured him, "Only a fool underestimates his opponent."
Narcissa thought she was going to have to defend her husband. She stepped back to give herself some room in case she needed to pull her wand from her skirt when a voice stopped everything. "I had hoped we would get through one party without all of the drama. Do I need to remind anyone that this is my house?"
Her voice had steel in it. Only a fool dare cross her, especially when the lioness was in her own den.
Because of the social faux pas, Dan and Emma had to revert to her title. With a half bow and a curtsey, they immediately apologized. "Of course not. Your pardon Lady Augusta."
She nodded at them acknowledging their apology.
Lucius just turned and with a snort moved away trying to appear aloof. He didn't get 5 feet before Lord Potter stopped him and whispered in his ear. "They're right. They don't need me to defend them. However, move against them in any fashion Malfoy and you will die." Lucius half turned to look him in the eye, Harry continued, "I am not the same 12-year-old boy, I will not hesitate to do anything to protect them."
Malfoy thought to intimidate the child. "We will see how bold you are in when my lord comes back."
Only Narcissa and Lucius heard his rejoinder. "I've faced him four times and never lost. Do you think I fear you? He's not here to protect you. You should pray for their continued health because if anything should happen to either of them, even a seeming accident of some sort; then start looking over your shoulder." Harry stopped a moment before continuing, "I am tired of threatening. Snape has until midnight to cry mercy. Should he not he will be an abject lesson for you."
Malfoy sneered as only a Malfoy could. He kind of wished he could sneer like that, and wondered how much Drakey had to practice to get it down so good. He could hear Malfoy in the background pish-poshing the entire event, "Muggles and children not even really worth concerning ourselves, is it?"
They were sitting having a drink at the large table. Dan and Emma had a cocktail, the kids had butterbeer. "You didn't need to protect us back there Harry." Emma admonished.
"Oh, you mean with Lucius?" Seeing her nod, he continued. "I didn't really. I knew you had everything under control. I was just giving my annual New Year's message to the Malfoy's. It's a tradition. They insult me and everyone associated with me, and I tell them I'll hurt them if they even think of it. The main difference between Drakey and his father is his heart. I don't think was really in it. His father though is a believer. Make sure you are armed at all times, even at and traveling to and from work."
"You don't think that was bluster?"
"Not at all," Neville answered. "Most likely, he will hire others to attack you instead. He only will act directly when he has no other recourse."
The three elves "popped in," and were immediately asked to sit down and join them. Dobby was dressed as Harry was and did so. He looked tired and Harry was concerned. Winky and Misty, though couldn't sit still. They wrung their hands and pulled their ears and fidgeted the entire time.
"Weez need to speak to the shes," Misty whispered.
"Okay," Hermione answered. Thinking they needed to tell them they were pregnant.
When the girls went away Harry asked Dobby. "Are you okay? You look tired."
"Dobby took a sip of the offered Butterbeer. "Master Harry and Master Nevy great lords to worries 'bout Dobby. Dobby tired. Eyes have to like like a lot at least 20 times a day."
"You have to what?" Both Harry and Dan asked.
"Like like," Neville supplied. "That means umm getting it on, you know," he stuttered embarrassed.
"Ohhh, you mean like like. Twenty times a day? Why Dobby?"
He answered wearily, "That she stuff. They tell me to like like and I like like. Dobby not like like like." He took another pull of his bottle, he thought maybe if he got drunk it might help.
"How long have you had to like like," he shook his head trying to clear it, this conversation was getting confusing. "Never mind that. How many days have you had to do this Dobby?"
"Since everyone went home. The first day it was 30 something, then flower nurse said no like like for two days. But Winky and Misty complain so I gets potion and now nurse tells me no more than 20 times per day."
"That explains your reluctance, but why?"
"Because Dobby beats goblins and is now house elf hero. Winky and Misty save all house elfs, there's not nuff elf babies so 477 shes wants Dobby to give them elf babies."
The guys whistled. "She elf business huh?"
Dobby nodded, his bottle was almost empty.
"Sounds like work to me Dobby," Neville said. He continued. "Harry pays you for work doesn't he?"
Dobby nodded again. He thought like like was work but he never thought it was WORK.
Neville pointed his bottle at Dobby. "If they want you to like like them, then they should pay you. Like like may be she elf stuff but pay is Dobby stuff."
Dobby smiled for the first time in days and snapped up another beer.
Harry paused his bottle halfway to his mouth and then asked, "Did you just pimp out my elf?"
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The good mood vanished with the return of the ladies. Emma had gone with the girls because it was "she business."
"Dan the kids need to talk and you need to hear this." Her voice was hard. Her eyes flashing. She was angrier now than she had been with the Malfoy's.
"Neville is there somewhere where we can have a quick meeting? You and Augusta need to be in this as well."
All four of the girl's eyes were downcast. None wanted to meet the guy's eyes.
"Mike," he called.
A small elf appeared, "Yes my lord."
"Ask my grandmother to meet us in my study when she has a moment."
The elf "popped" away as Neville led them into the Lord's study. He waved everyone to seats, but the four girls and the two female elves stood. Dobby took a seat next to Dan and Emma. Harry already suspecting what was coming went and stared out the window. Silence reined while everyone waited on the Lady Augusta.
Neville stood as did Dan and Dobby when she walked in. She waved at the guys to sit . "You called Neville?"
"Emma asked for this meeting, she sounded as if it was urgent."
Augusta took the deep comfortable chair near Neville's desk as Harry turned back to the window. If you had asked him what was outside, he wouldn't have been able to tell you. Even if it was daytime, he was staring at nothing. The girls waited patiently. The levity that abounded just 20 minutes ago was far removed now. "Emma, what happened?"
"Did you know the girls had a slave?"
"Had? Past tense?" Seeing her nod, she sighed. "No one told me, Emma. However, while it is rare; it is not unheard of. I assume this is both house Potter and House Longbottom business?" Every young head nodded. Even Harry. He turned around to look at her before resuming his vigil at the window. "We have guests. I will tend to them. Neville, I expect a full accounting of this no later than the morning. If there is something urgent that needs tending to, let me know immediately."
"Of course grandmother. We shan't be long."
As soon as Augusta left Misty came to stand in front of the four girls. "It's not their fault Lord Nevy. Winky and mes were wrong. We wants permission to punish ourselves."
"Or," Winky hesitated. Afraid to say it. She loved this family but she failed again. "Or gives us clothes Master."
Harry turned around, "No clothes. Winky, Misty this was not your responsibility."
"I agree with Lord Potter. No punishment or clothes. Ladies sit down." It really wasn't a request. "Harry? Did you want to sit?"
"Not yet Nev. I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop."
Luna took in a breath to say something but Daphne on one side and Hermione on the other hushed her before she could speak. All of a sudden there was a lot of talk about shoes. She would ask one of the girls about it, but later.
"Ok. First Hermione, you had best tell your parents why you have a slave. Were you hiding it? Or was it an oversight?"
"No.. Maybe in part. I.. I'm not sure. I mean I don't have a problem telling them I just didn't know how to do it."
"You remember I told you about Ron?" Seeing him nod she told her father everything that had happened.
Harry finally turned from the window and sat down. "It's true Dan. Neville and I would have had to condemn him or if we sent him for trial it would have been worse. Life in Azkaban. The average lifespan is about 7 years I'm told."
Harry asked, "Okay let's hear the rest of it. Neville and I have already guessed but I want to hear it."
"Lord Nevy I was supposed to watch him but I was helping Dobby with the she-elves." Misty was crying and tugging her ears. None of the girls could meet his or Harry's eyes.
His voice was quiet but everyone heard it. "It may have been your job Misty and Winky, but the responsibility for it were the ladies Longbottom and Potter. Is that not correct?"
The four answered, "Yes, my lord."
"Do we know how long he has been gone?"
The eyes turned to Harry. "No, my lord. We think for a day or two. There was another snow storm yesterday and no one sees him."
"Nev I think we need to tell the Weasley's."
He thought about it for a moment before nodding, "Mike."
"I's can do.." Neville's look froze Misty.
"Mike ask Lord and Lady Weasley to step in here please."
"You seem more upset about the boy running away rather than the fact that you have a slave." Emma still didn't understand. There was still an edge to her voice.
Harry answered. "When the girls took responsibility for him, they made House Potter and House Longbottom responsible for everything he does. He's already tried to murder us. What would happen if he murdered anyone else? He became rather good with that bow and arrow of his. He's an abysmal wizard, but if he was to attack a muggle even he would be too much for your average person."
"You ladies realize that Harry and I have to deal with this right?"
They still couldn't meet the boy's eyes. "Yes my lord."
The knock at the door stopped further conversation. Neville gestured and the doors swung open. "You asked to see us, my lord?"
Neville and Harry stood, "Please come in have a seat."
Neville let Misty get them a drink. Molly couldn't wait. "It's about Ron isn't it?"
Harry answered, "Yes Mrs. Weasley. Ron took advantage of a situation and escaped. The elves have looked but he is not bonded to them so they can't find him as easily as they can find us."
Arthur asked, "What are you going to do when you find him?"
"We haven't gotten that far actually. You both know neither Harry or myself want to hurt him. It seems as if he hasn't changed at all, running from his responsibilities."
Harry took over, "The elves told us he has never asked to see us and resents everything to do with us."
"Maybe that's because his friends made him a slave!"
Everyone was shocked at the vehemence of her exclamation. Harry knew at once where Hermione had gotten her attitude from and looked at her. But she only colored and once more found the carpet very interesting. This was difficult enough with his anger barely in check from the whole situation. He couldn't understand what part of this she didn't understand. Everyone watched as Harry walked over to Emma. Molly and Arthur stared in open-mouthed surprise at the outburst.
"Maybe you would have rather him kill me and Lord Longbottom. Would that have been better?"
"Of course not! But slavery is wrong!"
"Oh, then you think we should have sent him to Azkaban. Attempted murder of 2 Lords of Ancient and Noble houses normally means the death penalty, but with our word he could go to Azkaban with a life sentence, and of course that means it would be for that 7 years we mentioned. He's not all that powerful, nor strong minded he may not have lasted the average."
"Maybe better dead than a slave!"
"Really Emma? Says the woman who has lost nothing. Look to the woman over there; tell her, her son should die." Harry walked to the door. He didn't even gesture, the doors flew open at his silent command.
Soon it was just the parents in the room, Molly sat next to the crying woman. She felt strongly about slavery, but now her anger may have cost her 2 daughters and a son in law. Molly took her into an embrace, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry," Emma kept repeating.
The lord's office had been sound proofed, so no one knew what transpired. But everyone could read the faces of the people moving in and out. Hermione and Luna still crying ran to catch Harry as he said goodbye to Augusta. Many people use the floo to come to these affairs, but they tended to leave the finery covered in ash. The majority of the guests arrived via port key or apparated into an opening purposely left in the wards for this reason.
He was at the front door, the elf opening it for him as they caught his attention. "Harry! Harry!" They both had the long skirts pulled up and ran as best as they could in the uncomfortable shoes.
"Please don't leave us!" Their makeup was ruined and they couldn't care less about it. They had disappointed their love and caused an embarrassment for their lord.
He pulled them close. "Stop now," he commanded. "Look in yourself. What does our bond tell you?"
It took them both a minute, they were that upset. Luna found it first a moment before Hermione. "You love us?"
"Of course I do silly. Nothing will change that. Nothing. But I am very angry and I can't go back to your parent's house 'Mione."
He kissed them, "We'll chat tomorrow. I'll let you know where I am."
"You can stay here, I'm sure Neville won't mind. Ooh, maybe you can stay at Luna's."
He shook his head. "No. I need to clear my head. I love you two."
He apparated just as Emma ran out, closely followed by Dan. If it was possible, her makeup was even worse than the girls.
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It was a quiet household that evening and the next morning. Everyone's emotions were raw. Instead of starting the new year out on a high everyone was quiet. Afraid that any untoward word would start the crying again or even worse, arguing.
Dan was a man of many talents, however cooking wasn't one of them. Hermione wasn't great, better than Dan but still a complete wreck. Luna's idea of cooking breakfast involved spreading pudding on toast, and Emma normally adept at cooking was inconsolable. Not that either of the girls was really inclined to console her, but at least Dan had tried.
"He'll understand, just give him some time."
"But I accused him of being a monster and I told him he should have murdered that boy."
"He'll forgive you for that," Hermione and Luna came into the kitchen both wearing shorty shorts and tee shirts. They were done with crying and anger.
Luna was tired. Despite being upset, she had spent a major part of the night using her sight to find Ron. There was too much emotion involved and everything was blocking her. She swore at about 4:00 am complaining that even the planets were aligning against her vision. "I couldn't see Harry, I couldn't see Ron. All night I tried to look through his eyes to see where he was, but he was blocking me. All I could sense was anger and disappointment."
"Do you think he spent the night at Neville's?
They shook their heads. "Neville had to have the same conversation that we need to have. There is a lot more that Harry has to say to us."
"You know it's not a crime to fail girls. Or to make a mistake." Dan's voice rose a notch he wanted another girl to quit beating herself up.
"He's our love and our lord. He knows all of that. He's the most patient person I have ever met." Luna looked at her soon to be in-laws. "But he is also a 15-year-old boy that has one of the most evil men in history trying to kill him. He has another hugely powerful wizard shaping and manipulating his life, and all of the associated death eaters and toadies. So when we tell him we will take a burden away only for it to fall back on his shoulders. It was a surprise and then with the rest of it, not a good night for Harry."
The doorbell rang. Everyone looked at each other and the girls ran for the front door. The yanked it open an expectant smile on their face to find a big black dog. No licks, and with no hesitation the dog trotted in the house and waited for the door to close before transforming. There was no banter, no crooked smile that he was known for, no "hellos" to the girls. "Dr. and Dr. Granger am I welcome here?"
"A couple of days ago it was Emma and Dan. Why the formality?"
"A couple of days ago you didn't insult two lords of Ancient and Noble Houses. Am I welcome?"
"Yes Lord Black, you are welcome here. As are Lords Potter and Longbottom," Dan answered formally. "You and they will always be welcome here. I am curious though. I meant what I said but what would have happened if we didn't welcome you?"
"Then none would have ever seen me again. The girls wouldn't have heard from Harry at all and wouldn't see him until they found him in school."
"I thought he needed to be in contact with the girls to be healthy?"
"He does, as do they. But the bond has matured they can go longer without touching before getting sick. You girls know Harry best. What would he have done?"
"He would have avoided us as much as possible," Luna said immediately.
"He would have used that damned invisibility cloak to hide from us and to hell with the consequences."
"That's exactly what he planned on doing when he floo called me. He was very upset and I didn't get much from him. Can someone please fill me in?"
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The final 2 days of the vacation were spent rebuilding broken relationships. Harry eventually came back after Sirius contacted him via mirror.
Emma apologized profusely. There were no hugs, no smiles. Even the girls got little more than a perfunctory kiss.
Harry called for Dobby and asked him to cook breakfast. Dobby vanished Dan's enthusiastic failure and started over.
Winky watched helplessly as her master's displeasure was evident in his silence towards her. The easy camaraderie was gone and there were a lot of please and thank you's. Very formal, no one wanted to offer offense.
After breakfast, everyone was in the den when Sirius started. "Okay, everyone has been on their best behavior all morning. Everyone regrets what happened and if this is going to be a family, we need to get past this."
"I agree," Harry said. "But let's get the whole family here. Dobby, Winky You need to be here for this." The two elves "popped" into the room.
"Before we start, should we get Nev and the girls here? This way we only have to do this once. Misty is also welcome."
Dobby let Winky go, he was wise enough to know she needed to do something, anything. Especially if Lord Potter was upset with her.
They were joined a few minutes later with the two elves and the other trio. The level of familiarity between the teens was evident. The girls were dressed similarly to Luna and Hermione with just housecoats on. Neville, like Harry had been up for several hours.
Quick "good mornings," and offers of coffee and tea were made before everyone sat. Daphne and Trace sat on either side of Nev on the couch conjured by Sirius.
"Thanks for coming over so early. We wanted to deal with this," he repeated unnecessarily.
"I want to start with another issue first," Harry interjected. The three elves sat on a chair together unknowingly mimicking the other triads. "Dobby tells me you have him like liking a lot."
The two shes nodded and even managed to blush. They were afraid he was going to withdraw permission.
"That's okay. He told me that was she elfs business right?"
They once more nodded. "Fine," he continued. "But Dobby is my friend first and an important part of the protection of our family. He is not to like like so much that he can't do his job. Clear?"
Winky smiled for the first time today. Everything was fine once more. "A-okay Master Harry!"
"The last thing I'll say about it is, like like is supposed to be good. Don't make my friend hate like like."
There were a couple of snickers before Sirius added, "I'm not sure I want to know what that was about. I'm almost certain Kreacher and I will never have a conversation like that. But let's get back to the subject at hand. Emma?"
"It's a family thing. The anger over slavery I mean. Your father knows a lot of this, but even he didn't realize just how vehemently I detest slavery."
"Slavery is wrong. I admit it, and this circumstance doesn't excuse that. I personally feel this was the best the kids could up with. "Sirius added, "and your reaction was a little..."
"Over the top?"
He smiled, "That's one way of putting it."
"My maiden name was Newton," Emma said as if that explained everything.
"Oh!" Hermione's encyclopedic mind made a connection. "You never told me. You only told me that slavery is wrong. Our ancestor is John Newton right?"
"Yes honey." She smiled proud of her only child. "Your great great and a few more greats grandfather was John Newton."
All of the nonGrangers were drawing a blank. Hermione had to educate them. "John Newton was a slaver, born in the 1700's and died in the early 19th century. He converted to Christianity and wrote Amazing Grace in 1779."
Even Sirius had heard of that song. "And that explains your hatred of it. I'm certain that you've been told since you were a little girl about the evils of slavery. But just for clarification and to end this issue, it's a different type of slavery Emma. One was for profit and the subjugation of fellow man, the kids did it to save a life."
"I see that, now. I was a little upset over the Malfoy's and had just a little too much to drink." She said apologetically.
"Enough of this, everyone up." Sirius waved with his arms getting everyone to stand up. "I saw this in a muggle video. Everyone bring it in, come on group hug. He looked at the 3 seated elves, that includes you as well."
At first, everyone was reluctant, but went with "the flow."
Everyone was still hugging when Sirius asked, "Okay. Who was it that didn't shower this morning?"
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It had been a rough 3 days. The slave formerly known as Ron would have loved a shower right now. It had snowed just a few hours after he left. He was cunning enough to welcome that snow, it hid his tracks. But he didn't realize until he was thoroughly lost that he had no idea where in the forbidden forest the Centaurs were.
He did think far enough ahead to bring some extra food but that was long gone. He began to wonder if he had made the right decision, but then told himself Hermione had arranged for his escape and she knew what she was doing. Even if that pig Potter had her in thrall. His brilliant Hermy and the bint Lovegood, they would be his soon. He smiled and he laughed even as his purloined boot sunk into an unseen hole and filled with snow.
He tried a warming spell on himself as the sun set. He sat on a log and tried to get the wand to work. He got sparks out at the castle, now he tried a warming charm and then a bluebell fire, But neither worked.
"Hermy as a first year could do it. Why can't I? Damn that Potter he must have cursed me."
He crossed several streams and fell in them more often than not. He was hungry, tired and was getting sick. His Hermy was never wrong. He hoped she would save him soon.
After falling in the snow yet again, he had stopped counting how many times long ago. Even before he ran out of fingers He saw three of his "brothers" in front of him.
"Younglings are forbidden this forest. It is dangerous even in the winter. Come. we will lead you back."
"No. I can't go back! I'm one of you. I have Centaur blood in me. Hermy says it's in my pants!"
The three adult Centaurs, all adult males. Had spied this one for 2 days. They were surprised that it had taken him this long to see them. "Speak your strange words again, and tell me their meaning."
"Meaning? What meaning. Let us dispose of this wizard. They are a blight on the beings of the forest."
"Bane!" One said sharply. "We must not! Magorian has forbidden it."
"Magorian is close to changing his mind. Mars still in ascendancy. We are treated like animals. Firenze put an arrow in this one and let the other animals partake of him. Meat is scarce in the barren times."
"What did Hermy tell me to say?" He asked himself over and over. "Luna said it could mean my life. Maybe she wants me too. I can do them both! Something about me being the mayor of bridges. Oh yeah!"
To the Centaurs, he yelled, "Venus must rise. It must rise in me. I am the mayor-bridge."
The three Centaurs were stunned. Did they hear this human correctly? The youngest stepped forward, his coat was darker than the others. To Ron he looked kinder than the other two. "I am Trell. The others are Bane and Firenze. It is true. Venus must rise for the benefit of all but Mars rules now. Repeat what you said again."
Dutifully he repeated it, this time remembering to look at his feet in awe of their power. In fact, he was in awe, "Venus must rise. It must rise in me. I am the mayor bridge."
"Where did you get this from," The angry one called Bane asked.
"From the 2 smartest witches in school. Everyone says Hermy is the smartest since Rowena and Looney is the best seer since Helga. They told me to say this."
The three Centaurs looked between them. They came to a silent understanding. "If what you say is true, then only Magorian can make that decision. You must be very brave to volunteer for such a thing."
Ron being complimented for something was a good thing. Even if he didn't completely understand it. Why did a bridge need a mayor? The Centaurs turned and expected him to follow. Lazy Ron thought he could save himself some exercise. "So. Will one of you mount me?"
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Flashback
Despite the inauspicious start of the New Year's, Sirius enjoyed himself thoroughly. Following the group hug and another brunch. He convinced everyone to enjoy each other's company. The girls were close enough in sizes so that eventually everyone was dressed in more than just shorts. He even managed to get Augusta and her elf Mike over. He expanded the Granger's living room and the TV was already a large projection TV anyway.
Emma and Dan convinced everyone to watch the wizard of Oz. Luna then and there decided to call him Toto, being the only dog she knew.
Continuing with the witch theme, Hermione popped Mary Poppins in. Everyone thought that either a witch or a squib wrote that. Despite the wonderful camaraderie, even better news was the strengthening of the family Black. Harry called 'Dora and got the Tonks to agree to "pop" over.
Having them call for one of the elves, the elves went to them and they were able to apparate back to their home after.
Sirius welcomed them back. With Luna performing her first official act as the Lady Black (presumptive). He immediately hired them as the family attorneys. Both Ted and Andi were lawyers, and they worked both sides of the street. With the evidence that Lord Potter and the Lady Hermione had, there was a good chance of proving his innocence.
During the movie, Harry pulled him into the kitchen. "Siri. I'm honored to be your heir. But I am just happy just being your godson."
Suddenly teary eyed, "Pup. I couldn't ask for a better son. Even if I am exonerated, and find someone to love this old mutt, the title would still pass to you. It's a known but seldom mentioned side effect with continued exposure to dementors. It sterilizes people."
Harry looked on in shock, as he continued. "I've already asked Emma and Dan to find a muggle specialist, and once I'm free I will follow up with the healers in St Mungo's, but I'm afraid you're stuck with it." Trying to lighten the mood he added, "Just give the old dog a house to live in will ya?"
Harry grabbed him and initiated a hug first, something else that was seldom seen, (except with the girls). "You will always have a place with me and mine."
Recovering from the hug and surreptitiously wiping away the tears, (umm sorry dust in their eyes, yeah that must have been it). Harry asked him, "So What about Narcissa?"
End Flashback
Sirius stood in the dingy and dank Grimmauld Place. Wondering how anyone, even a house elf could get this place fixed up in time for his meeting with Cissy. "He seemed pretty sure of himself. I'll trust the puppy."
"Dobby," he called.
"The dogfather calls and Dobby comes. How can Dobby help The Great Lord Harry Potter's dogfather."
"Harry told me you were ill or tired or something. Are you okay? I told him I needed to get this place cleaned up quickly and he told me to call you and have some Sickles handy."
"I've been resting for two days and taking flower lady's medicine. Dobby is better now." He looked around and popped around the house several times. "The great Harry Potter says you has a meeting today. Very big and shh shh. You need just this floor clean today?"
"That would work. How long would it take?"
Dobby shrugged, "Be done in time for tea."
"Tea time? Kreacher has been here years and hasn't been able to do it."
Dobby actually got mean looking, "That ELF. He no good good. He sick, not trusted. Not a loyal house elf. You wants cleaning?"
"Yes!" Sirius opened the bag of Sickles. You want me to give you the money?"
Dobby looked at him as if he was crazy. "No Master Siri. youse hang onto sickles. She elves tells you." He called to the air, "Misty, Winky."
"Dobby Potter. Bossman wants to know why you don't like like no more."
"Dobby bonded with the Great Harry Potter and you two shes. Not bonded to anyone else. Anyone else want Dobby Potter to work then Dobby be paid for it!"
Once again Siri stuck the bag of Sickles out, thinking it was some sort of ceremony. Dobby almost but not quite rolled his eyes at the silly human.
"Lord Siri needs first floor clean clean very fast. Important meeting soon. He has sick lazy house elf that won't work!"
The two she's looked aghast at the mention of a lazy house elf. It was rumored, but never actually seen. Not until today.
Misty popped out and then a minute later back in with 20 other she-elves. She repeated the instructions. The female elves looked almost as excited as Dobby. Huge smiles on their faces at the prospect of earning a Sickle.
Dobby snapped his fingers and he was dressed in a bathrobe with a huge pair of sunglasses on. He was relaxing in a beach/lounge chair that appeared behind him and he had a glass in his hand with an umbrella in it. While the females eyed him like a prize piece of meat in the butcher shop. "Lord Siri you put twenty Sickles on table there. She elves will "find" them when theys be done. In two days you call again and they will do basement then after that every floor every 2 days till house clean. You call Dobby and he will call shes."
"Dobby why? What's going on?"
"She elves want elf babies. Lord Nevy says that much like like is a lot of work. So Dobby charges she elves to pay when he like like. But she elves don't get paid. So Dobby finds a way for she elves to get paid."
"I get it. Dobby the elf-whore. But why are you dressed like that?"
Dobby lowered the sunglasses, and even though seated far beneath the Lord Black. He still managed to look down on him. "The great Harry Potter calls it, ...motivation."
Speechless, he watched the furious cleaning of the first floor. Twenty motivated happy she elves with the promise of like like had the dirt and grime disappearing. The one thought that kept repeating was "Harry and Neville are going to change the world."
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There was plenty of activity on the platform. Kids of all ages running around and parents mingling. Each asking each other about the hols. There was a cluster of purebloods standing, waiting for their children to board.
Luna demonstrated that she had OD'd on TV. It must have been one of the underwater movies she watched. He knew she saw 'The Hunt for Red October' three times. She looked to her mates, "I have the con."
Harry thought, "What the hell," and decided to play along. Following her thought, he answered, "You have the con, aye." He stepped to the side and Hermione one step behind.
Talk died down as they drew near the cluster. "Peace to all," she proclaimed and curtsied to the lords and ladies present. As she did, Harry bowed and Hermione also curtsied.
"I am Luna Lovegood. The presumptive Lady Black. With my Lord's and Scion Black's let, we ask for peaceful parley with Scion Malfoy. With a look towards issues of mutual benefit."
It was if the world stopped spinning for this meeting. Anyone needing to go past the separate groups did so silently. Mothers grabbing children by the arm and telling them, "shhh."
Draco looked to his father who looked on perplexed. He was rapidly thinking, trying to find 'Potter's angle,' remembering vividly the last meeting between the two. He finally nodded imperceptibly before Draco answered, "I welcome House Black in the spirit of peace. And will eagerly await discussions. Did you wish to begin them here?"
Luna shook her head. "This is no place for sensitive discussions. There should be ample time while on the express. We look forward to your wise counsel." Once more she curtsied and Harry and Hermione responded appropriately. After Drakey bowed back, the three left the group and hopped on to the train, choosing the same compartment as before.
Harry had peered over his shoulder. Everyone started to talk at once. Draco and Pansy were receiving new and hurried instructions.
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"Brilliant Luna!" Daphne exclaimed. "Everyone heard exactly what you wanted them to. They hear Malfoy and almost no one caught the scion before it. Of course, Draco will have to come up with appropriate stories for his father and the other DE's."
Luna shrugged, "By that time it should be a fait accompli. As long as Narcissa accepts Lord Black's offer of refuge, it shouldn't matter."
"I don't understand. How will that help him at the end of this year, or next year?"
Draco and Pansy entered the compartment. His grin was huge. "That was very well done Luna!" He got a hold of himself and put a serious look on, "Excuse me. I meant, Very well done Lady Black."
"Thank you, Scion Malfoy. However, that is for everyone out there. In here there a no titles. Just love and friendship."
"Well said," Tracey interjected.
"Drakey please explain to Harry. If you had to anger an Ancient and Noble house; out of all that were available, which one would least want to offend?"
"Oh, that's easy. No one, unless they have a death wish, would ever choose to anger House Black."
Hermione looked confused, and Harry admitted to it. "I don't get it. I will be both Lord Black and Lord Potter. I'm the same fellow aren't I?"
Normally shy, the pretty blond Pansy liked the openness and was beginning to like this group. "That's just it Harry. You will not be the same person. The Potter's and the Longbottom's are known and it is almost expected to be merciful to their enemies. On the other hand, it's rumored the house of Black unable to get to their enemies, unleashed the Black death on the world in retribution for an affront."
"So I have to be an arse?"
"Harry, you're reading too much into it right now." Neville needed his "brother" to focus. "Magic will always have the last word. Let's put it this way. How much mercy would you show Voldemort right now?"
"None, he deserves death."
"You're right, he does. Do you think Sirius would show the rat any mercy?"
He shook his head, "He doesn't deserve any either. Because of him, Siri was in jail over a decade and I was in Durzkaban."
Luna ended the conversation. "Don't worry about it love. Magic will drive us where she will. Just enjoy the ride." She kissed him soundly and whispered for him to pass it on. He was happy to do so.
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As soon as the train left the station Cissy followed her husband to the common floo. Instead of calling "The Manor," she whispered, "Black Bastion."
"You made it. I assume the kids left without any problems?"
"That Lovegood girl is a sly one. She had Lucius thinking that Potter was going to apologize and beg for mercy following that debacle at Longbottom's."
"There's no use in standing here. Come on let's have a seat where we can be more comfortable."
"Did you want me to surrender my wand? Or take an oath first?"
He almost whispered, "Cissy. This is the moment. Right here, right now. We both took oaths to the Family Black. I didn't think much of it then, but now... Well, you can hex me in my back and tell Lucius a story how you caught me. Or you can once more be a Black and not have to kiss the hem of some evil jerk's robes."
Without another word he turned and went to the parlor. She stood there mouth agape. In the few seconds she stood there, she remembered so much. First how happy she was when she was able to take Andi's place. She thought she had won the lottery. Lucius was so handsome back then, and so sure of his place as a lord. She thought she would stand at his side. She quickly learned that she was naught but a pretty bagatelle. Something trotted out for parties and important meetings only to be put away for the next event. Lucius quit sharing her bed when she birthed a son. His performance there was less than inspiring, his need, his satisfaction the only factors.
She stood there and Sirius poked his head around the corner, "Coming?"
She followed automatically, her mind still whirling, flashing memory after memory. She smiled at the memory of toddler Draco. His name another thing she had no say in. As soon as the young boy was old enough to be schooled Lucius suddenly found interest in him. He chose the instructors, and he decided when the boy hadn't learned his lessons well enough, the severity of the punishments. She remembered the bastard's cold smile as he forbade her from going to the boy's room to comfort him. Certain that not only was his boy going to look like him but would act like him as well.
"Are you okay? Can I get you some tea?"
She was startled by Lord Black bending over concerned for her well being. Anyone could tell she was miles away.
"No I'm... no, Siri, thank you. I think I would like some tea." She said correcting herself and trying to pull it together.
"Let me get it. I'll be right back."
"Don't you have an elf?"
"Kreacher is not to be trusted. I think he is insane. He talks to mother's painting all day. And I assure you, what he says is not fit for polite company." He smiled and repeated, "Be right back," before leaving the room.
House-elf. If it wasn't for that wonderful house elf, Draco would have been lost. She remembered a much younger looking Dobby. He was designated the "head elf" by Lucius because he was a male. He was there when he commanded the mother was not allowed into the boy's room. Dobby couldn't outright disobey a direct order, but Lucius had said nothing about Dobby not bringing the boy to her. That worked for several years until Draco accidentally "spilled the beans." Lucius was furious and had Draco punish Dobby. And when young Draco didn't beat him severely enough, he beat Draco and then beat Dobby right afterward. He relented the beatings of his boy but never did stop punishing Dobby. Still though in his anger Lucius hadn't been thorough enough. He still wasn't careful with his verbiage. Lucius had ordered they not see each other in the others room unless he was with them, so the garden became the meeting place. Then Dobby was gone and the females elves, though they tried didn't have the same verve as the young house elf.
She heard Siri puttering around trying to pour tea. The man was a brilliant duelist, handsome, intelligent and the life of every party, but never could do a proper tea. "I'm coming to help you Siri."
She took over and went back on auto pilot. Then this year, the owl brought that letter at breakfast and Lucius went insane. He threw the letter down and ran to the floo demanding to speak with Severus immediately. Naturally curious, she picked the letter up and read its contents. Very diffidently, Draco mentioned how Longbottom and Potter had opened a dialogue and asked if it was true that the dark lord was a half-blood named Riddle. She had heard the next evening from Pansy's mother Tricia, how the two men beat Draco so bad it had almost killed him.
Siri touched her arm, "You're gone again. The tea is done..at least I think so. Where is your mind right now?"
She smiled and impulsively kissed his cheek. "It's of no import. I was lost in another world. I'm here now and I think everything will work out."
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The entire staff sat in Dumbledore's office. It altered itself to comfortably fit all of the staff. His eyes were twinkling madly as he smiled to put everyone at ease. "I want to welcome everyone back for the newest semester. I hoped everyone enjoyed their holidays?"
Everyone grunted and acknowledged it. There were more than just a couple stony faces there.
"I think this is one of my favorite traditions. The one where I toast all of you and thank you for your continued service to Hogwarts. Albus opened the bottle of champagne and poured it for everyone. He, as he did every semester waved his wand over his glass. Everyone knew it was to detect potions in drinks. They as professors were well aware of the charm and had watched "Madeye" do it with almost every plate of food. The only thing he never checked was his flask that he drank from.
Everyone took their drink, Minerva and Filius even checked their own drink as well. There were a couple of surprise intake of breath, but no one said anything.
Everyone talked jovially amongst themselves when someone ran out of drink Albus was quick to refill it. They were half way through their 2nd glass before he said, "Unfortunately we must at least look like we are doing our jobs. Continue to drink as we discuss, we still have three or four hours before the express returns. Any concerns before we begin?"
"Snape is not here. What are you going to do for potions?"
"Ahh, thank you Minerva. I had almost forgotten. I believe Madam Maxine brought a potions mistress with her. I have planned on speaking with them. Aurora, you have a mastery in potions as I remember. Could I impose on you to handle the first and second years? Just for the first week. I will take the other years even if I have to combine a few classes." His eyes were twinkling merrily. He knew she couldn't say no. This time of year even though the sky was clearer in the crispness of the cold. Outside time had to be limited.
She smiled thinly, she knew he was going to ask her. She really had no reason to complain, at least for the first week. "Of course Albus. I am happy to."
"Good, what other concerns are there?" Once more he filled up the glasses. No one said anything as he omitted the checking of the glass. So the others omitted it as well, unconsciously copying the headmaster.
Other items of interest were mentioned and dispensed with. "Hagrid, let me get your cup for you," starting to fill it up. He paused as if in sudden thought, "Alastor. It just occurred to me. This would be an ideal time for some Death Eater's to get to the station and disillusion themselves. I fear for the children. Can I impose upon you to perhaps use your invisibility cloak and watch for them and guard our children?"
"Of course Albus. If I was a DE scum that's exactly what I would do." Standing he hobbled out of the room and down the stairs.
"I'm sorry Hagrid. I got caught up. Still holding Hagrid's cup and the bottle in his hand. As he started to pour, the bottle slipped out of his hand. A second later his hand once more rose above the desk holding the bottle. I seem to be getting clumsy in my old age."
"Either that or you've had too much to drink yourself!" Argus seldom said anything at these meetings. Everyone including the headmaster chuckled. He refilled everyone's drink and took time to sip his cup, which he neglected to refill. "I know we have a lot to do before everyone returns. The second task will be on us soon." He made sure everyone had partaken of their drink.
"The last Item I want to bring up is Lord Potter and Lord Longbottom. I think those young men have entirely too much responsibility and too much freedom. We need to be strict with them. Since Potter seems to be the ringleader, whenever possible detentions and loss of privileges should be used. Even if one of the others breaks the rules."
"Can we do that though Albus? Shouldn't we punish the guilty party?"
"I think you'll see that Potter is at the epicenter of everything. Severus may have expressed himself wrong, but Potter really needs to be brought under control. It is after all for the greater good."
Everyone looked doubtful but nodded. The headmaster smiled, genuinely this time and refilled their glasses once more. "I'm sure it will become even clearer very soon." The long robes had caught the dropped bottle, the one without the additive. His "slip" brought the potioned bottle up and none of the professors had seen the muggle sleight of hand.
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It had been an enjoyable ride so far. They played exploding snap, and as usual Harry's face always had soot on it. Naturally, Neville protested when he was accused of setting him up. "But you always do it to me!"
"That's because you are horrible at this, mate. Somewhere in the world there is a huge list of everyone that plays. I am certain that your name is always at the very bottom."
"It's true Harry, you're awful at this game. And Nevy I've seen the list. A self-updating version is in my father's filing cabinet, right behind the documentation of the Werdverle migration." She smiled prettily as everyone's eyes fell on her, everyone loved a good Luna tale. "And my Harry, he's not at the bottom."
"He isn't?"
"Well not always. Some new players rank below him before they move up. Oh!" Getting excited as she remembered something, "One time there was a dead guy under Harry. But his name left the list as soon as the game ended."
Everyone started to laugh, Harry just shook his head kissed her cheek.
Hermione couldn't help herself, "Werdverle migration?"
Neither could Daphne, "Dead guy?"
Luna sat up straighter, "Ooo you two are the smartest. That could have happened. He might have died in the middle of a Werdverle migration. They're not normally dangerous unless of course one is unwary, like if he was playing exploding snap!" She looked at the both of them in awe. "I'll owl daddy and tell him. But how did you two know that when Daddy and I hadn't figured it out?"
The pretty blonde and equally pretty brunette could only stare at the youngest. Their mouths opening and closing interrupting each other with "I", "um", and "she."
Harry interrupted, his voice suddenly hard. "Company."
No one knew what to expect. The middle of the floor was cleared and everyone was seated and appeared at ease. So they were surprised when a knock on the door revealed two little "firsties." They had to be the smallest girls in the history of Hogwarts. Flitwick was taller than them. And they were very nervous. Already dressed in their Hufflepuff robes they each had tears in their eyes and their wands in their hands.
"Mr. Potter sir?" The dark skinned girl with a blue streak in her hair asked.
"I'm Harry. Come on in. You're among friends. No one will hurt you."
The little brunette shook her head her gray eyes as big as saucers. "No! We can't. They hurt Mandy!"
"Who hurt Mandy?" Harry was careful to keep the anger out of his voice.
"She's this way, they pointed towards the front. Some big boys hurt her. I think they were snakes."
Harry stepped past the girl as the other backed out of the compartment and took a backward step towards the rear of the train. All of the time her hand and wand was pointing to the front. The other girls, once Harry had stepped past, twirled turning to follow Harry her wand also at the ready.
Luna cocked her head. Something was off about these girls. The voice was right, the mannerisms were fine, but something didn't feel right. This had nothing to do with her sight. This was a "Harry gut feeling." When the young one turned, she knew. "Harry look out!" And she followed it up with,"Stupify!"
The constant practice paid off, the red bolt flew from her finger true to the girl who dropped like a rock. The other girl seeing her friend attacked, shouted, "Diffindo!"
Already on alert, he batted the spell away and used "Incarcerous," before stunning her as well.
Heads appeared out of a few doors, and the Slytherin prefect, Ryan something or other, started to come down the passageway only to have Harry slam the door in his face. No amount of magic or strength of arm would open the door for him.
"Okay Luna, do you want to tell me why we attacked two firsties?"
Luna smiled, "but we didn't attack any firsties. I saw the girl turn and there is only one person that we know that has their robe flare so dramatically."
"Snape," Tracey answered needlessly, while Draco and Pansy exchanged a glance.
"Girls will a couple of you examine our two guests? If we are wrong, I don't want any other charges added."
Hermione nodded at Neville and surprisingly Pansy helped with the brunette. Bending over, she smelled their breath. "Polyjuice, without a doubt."
Going through the pockets she found a bottle with another dose in it; as did Hermione.
"We'll just have to see who our guests are. We suspect one of them," he not too gently nudged one of the girls. "Is Severus. We'll just have to be patient. Luna. I owe you one. Is there anything I can do for you?"
She thought it over. She knew he was playing, and hinting at having fun this evening, but Luna was in the mood for fun now. "Do you remember the movie?"
"Which movie?"
"Yes."
"Yes?"
"Yes, the witch movie."
"Oh, the witch movie! Which witch movie?"
Pansy and Draco once more looked at each other. Silently asking if they were still speaking the same language. All the words sounded the same, but it didn't make sense. To everyone else, things were back to normal.
Soon the potion wore off and the other guest turned out to be the auror that had accompanied Madam Bones. "Clarke-Smythe, wasn't it?"
Two angry eyes told him he was right.
"Harry," Draco called softly. When everyone eyes were upon him he asked. "You called blood feud. He is at your mercy. Are you going to kill him?" He asked pointed to the seriously underdressed Severus Snape.
Harry was serious. "If he had a wand in his hand and facing me I would be happy to. But that is wasteful and right now I am sure Madam Bones needs information."
"That is very ... generous of you."
"Oh Drakey. I didn't say we weren't going to have fun. Fun I hope he remembers for a long time."
A short time later the 8 were at the back of the train. Once again they had expanded the small platform so everyone could stand comfortably. Draco and Pansy were once more glad they made friends with the two triads. They watched as they transfigured the two men. "You know that transfiguration is several leagues above NEWT level."
The guys stopped singing, "Yeah our girls are geniuses. They can do anything."
Then they joined the girls in the refrain, singing, "Let's go fly a kite."
"Up to the highest height."
"and send it soaring.."
"Up to the atmosphere.."
"Up where the air is clear.."
"Oh let's go.. fly a kite!"
B/N I just want to say how frustrating it is to proof Dobby speak. But he writes it brilliantly. And yes, Ron thinks he's going to be the mayor of the centaurs. I'm sure he doesn't even know the meaning of mare. Rob4133 out.