A/N: Harry Potter and his world belongs to J.K. Rowling, Warner Brothers and anyone that has received licensing rights. I am grateful she gives us the privilege of playing in her world.
My awesome readers, I present another installment that I hope you all enjoy.
For those interested, I am starting to plan out my next long FanFic Project. Please go to my profile page to find a poll on it. All the ideas are currently in my Ramblings and Dribbles series if you want to read the initial idea. Warning, they are unfinished and probably will change some before posting. The poll will close out in early November.
Lastly, real life is very busy right now, so the next update may be two weeks away. The good news, I have lots of opportunities to write towards the end of November and December. Trying to complete writing by end of year, if not sooner. (24 Oct 21)
-oOo-
Chapter 23
-oOo-
October 12, 1994
Hogwarts, Scotland
Looking around the pitch, Harry was realizing that Roger wasn't far off from Wood, he just didn't have the Ravenclaws practice as much. He guessed that made sense with many Ravenclaws as zealous about their studies as they were about anything else.
Two teams of Chasers were flying up and down the pitch. Roger had managed to talk with the other Houses and had the Hufflepuffs, Gryffindors and Ravenclaws agreeing to practice with them once a week. Today was the Ravenclaws.
The school team and house team ran drills, practicing passes and interruptions. Roger barked orders towards the Beaters. Somehow, Angelina had convinced the Weasley's to try out for the team. The main team consisted of Fred and George, Beaters from Gryffindor. The Chasers from Katie Bell, Roger and Evalyn Tanis, representing Gryffindor, Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. Keeper was a larger boy from Slytherin, Peter Hershel. The alternates, two chasers, a beater and a keeper were practicing shots against the two Keepers.
Harry was liking the way Roger was splitting up the training, Harry just wished his partner was as likeable. Not that she was bad, but she was still rather frosty towards him since last year.
"Is this a new pattern?" Cho asked as she shadowed him.
"Something like that," he replied to the dark-hair Asian girl, moving in odd zigzag up the field. Harry was seeking, but he was also trying a new tactic.
"What's the point? You are missing large parts of the pitch going in these erratic lines," she questioned him.
"The point is to annoy my competition," Harry snarked.
Cho gave him a glare. "You grab for me again and I will take my wand out."
Harry gave her a cheeky grin. "Believe me, you are not the one I want to grab."
Cho's eyes narrowed.
He didn't let her say anything else as he took off at a glint of gold on the ground center field. He avoided the Chasers and a lazily hit bludger by a Ravenclaw Beater before stopping just above the ground. Cho pulled up beside him. "What is it?"
"Just a piece of a rim of someone's omnioculars." He hovered so his feet touched the ground, picked up the trash and pocketed it.
They stayed at it until close to seven. Luckily, dinner in the Great Hall had been extended on Wednesday nights for club time, meaning a good quarter of the school was eating a late dinner. Daphne sat next to him. "What were you and Chang talking about?"
Harry had stuffed his face already with some fried chicken. He was ravenous after the long practice and extra workout. It took a moment to answer. "Quidditch. What else would we talk about?"
She sniffed, probably from being out in the cool October evening. Harry had tried to convince her she didn't have to go see him, but she insisted. Hermione, Tracey, Neville and Blaise had joined her. "That is all?" Daphne pressed.
He looked at her for a moment. She didn't usually push him like this. "Daph, is something wrong?"
She sniffed again. "No." In an unusual move, she kissed him on the cheek in the middle of the hall. "You did good out there today."
Harry smiled. "Thank you," he replied.
She nodded and then started to get food for herself.
Harry shared a look with Hermione to see if she understood what was going on. He just got a little shake of her head. After a moment, he shrugged and began to eat again. He was starving.
-oOo-
October 15, 1994
Hogsmeade, Scotland
Daphne looked at the green eyes of the boy she really liked. She had a satisfied smirk on her face as his eyes looked her up and down. In their free-time, Tracey and her had taken more to wearing the muggle clothes they had gotten over the summer.
Today she wore a pair of faded jeans, a blue blouse with a floral pattern, a blue knit jumper and her travelling cloak. It was cool, even for October. As she walked up to Harry, he licked his lips as he met her eyes. "Uhm, hi," he said rather stupidly.
She giggled at him. "And here I thought you a proper Scion," she mock chastised him. If he was willing to put in the effort to be a scion, she could be willing to put the effort to be more muggle at times. Besides, she had to agree with Hermione. The proper pair of jeans was comfortable and would catch Harry's eye.
Neville was about as tongue-tied to see Tracey. As the only two couples in their group, they had decided to go into Hogsmeade together this time and have their first 'date' with each other. Daphne felt nervous, and felt silly she felt nervous, but she had to say the jeans and shirt Harry wore under his cloak were rather attractive as well. He really wasn't as scrawny as he had been last year.
Harry rubbed the back of his neck before straightening and bowing. "Heiress Greengrass, you look lovely today. Would you do me the honour of allowing me to escort you into Hogsmeade?"
She bobbed her head. In pants, curtsying just didn't have the same effect. "I would love for my boyfriend to escort me in." Using the more muggle terms had some type of thrill. It was better than saying her intended all the time. Certain company she would say that, but this was not that company.
He gave her a broad smile and they joined the line to be checked out before getting into the carriages.
"Can we go to Madam Puddifoots today?" Tracey asked.
Harry made a slight face, but quickly corrected it. "If that is what you two want. Neville and I have made lunch reservations at Westfords, if you want instead. Someone said a proper date should be at a nice place," Harry told them.
Her brow raised. It was the only restaurant in the small wizarding town. It was also rather expensive. She suddenly had the thought she would be underdressed.
Tracey brightened and Neville chuckled at her. "Excited?" Neville queried.
"Father has never taken me or Roger to Westford's. Are we dressed appropriately?" Tracey suddenly worried, echoing her own fears
Harry shrugged, waiting for the scowling Mr. Filch to check their names. "Thank you, Mr. Filch," Harry said, taking her hand. They waited the moment it took for Tracey and Neville to join them. "I think you are both fine. The owner seemed very accommodating when we sent him the request."
She shook her head. Daphne bet that the owner was not a supporter of the Dark houses and two Scions of very old and powerful houses with deep pockets probably had the owner salivating to have them.
Harry held her hand, helping her into the carriage. Hermione was with Millie, Blaise, Susan, Hannah and Ernie behind them. She noticed Blaise and Hermione were talking and Hermione laughed at something the boy said. Tracey caught her eye. "About time Blaise started to show interest in someone," Tracey replied.
She shook her head.
Harry took her hand again. "Blaise isn't a bad guy."
"You only say that because you won the bet against me and him the other day," Neville said annoyed.
"What bet?" she asked the boys.
"Oh, just that Longbottom would lose on the run the other day. Blaise is getting fast," Harry said with a smirk.
"I tripped on a bloody rock," Neville groused.
Tracey put a hand on his arm. "I kissed the bump better," she told him. Neville and Blaise had taken off at a full sprint as they approached the rear gates. Neville took a header and had a good egg on his head when he came back up. The kissing must have happened outside of their sight though, because Tracey only seemed this affectionate with Neville when she could not be seen by the rest of the school and only in select company.
She gave them an indulgent smile as Neville took on some colour and Tracey kissed the side of his head again. "I'm alright," Neville said a little embarrassed.
Harry laughed. "I bet."
Tracey looked at him. "Don't be jealous. If you want kisses, you have a witch right there," Tracey said put out.
Daphne laughed. "When he earns them," she said teasingly.
"Oi! I've been good to you," Harry said, sounding offended but smirking.
She rolled her eyes at him. It was rather nice to just be herself when around him. "Good enough, I suppose."
Neville gave an uncertain laugh and Tracey stuck her tongue out at him. Harry 'harumphed' and crossed his arms. Harry really wasn't sulking, but she chuckled at him anyways. Leaning over, she kissed his cheek. Harry smirked. "Knew that might work."
"You prat," she laughed.
"Sometimes," he shot back. She was really starting to like this more playful side of Harry. He was relaxed, looked and felt happy and oh so handsome. So different than the boy they had approached last February.
It was a brilliant morning as they went into Honeydukes, then Zonko's and she feebly protested going in Spinwitches Sporting Needs. Harry insisted on getting her the proper gear if she was going to do the first match of the pick-up league next weekend. She was still uncertain of this. Father had told them to do things differently, but it wasn't right for someone like her to do this. Harry had spent a few hours a week flying with her though and teaching her how to be a Seeker. She wanted to be a Chaser, her favorite position, but being Seeker kept her out of the fray. She also didn't need to be as reckless as her beau.
Tracey and Neville wandered the store as Harry helped getting her arm and shin guards, a proper flying cloak and the padded pants and shirts that a player would use. "Would you like these coloured? We offer the standard House colours or you can choose your own," the woman offered from behind the counter.
"I think you should go with emerald-green," said Tracey.
"What do you think?" she asked Harry.
"Up to you. I've only ever gotten gear in Gryffindor colors," Harry told her. She looked into his eyes and understood why Tracey said that. It would show her house and her boyfriend's eyes.
"A dark emerald green, please."
"Very good, dear. If you would give me an hour or so, and I will have this ready."
Harry put a small pile of coins on the counter. Her training had her not questioning it, but she had her own allowance. "Thank you," she said, kissing his cheek. Later she would give him a more proper peck.
"You're welcome. Do you ladies want to head over to lunch?"
"You calling me a lady?" Neville asked.
Harry chuckled while Tracey shook her head. "If the dress fits," Harry commented as though it wasn't anything out of the ordinary.
"Laugh it up, Harry. I'll get you back," Neville threatened.
She took his arm as he offered it and they stepped out the door. Spinwitches was down a small alley between two buildings towards the center of town. Harry stopped as soon as they stepped out. There were a few voices nearby. She looked around to see a slight blonde girl, smaller than Tracey, hunching her shoulders as a few girls she recognized from Ravenclaw said something to her. The smaller blonde didn't look happy.
"Excuse me," Harry said to her. She looked at him questioningly. Neville did the same, moving off with Harry.
"What is going on?" Tracey asked, following the boys.
"...there is no snarkled hose cackerns," a taller girl was saying. She was a fifth year... Willems? Wilhelm? Wilma! that was it. Theresa Wilma.
"It is crumpled-horned snorkacks," the blonde girl corrected.
"Excuse me. Ms. Lovegood, are you having an issue?" Harry asked.
The four girls whirled on Harry, a few of them looking suddenly concerned. Lovegood... Luna Lovegood? That sounded right from her training. "Potter, what are you doing here?" Wilma asked.
"I was wondering if Ms. Lovegood was enjoying herself or if she was being bothered," Harry said. Daphne could hear the danger in his tone, but she wasn't sure others would pick it up as easily as she did. "Ms. Lovegood, where are your boots or shoes?"
Daphne realized Luna was in thick stockings and what looked like sandals. Not the typical wear for this time of the year.
"Oh, I expect the nargles are just having fun. Since my dirigible plum earrings went missing, they have been rather active," Lovegood told him. "Most things find their way back by the end of the year."
Daphne had a sense this girl was not totally right, but there was something about her that made Daphne angry at the look the other girls were giving Lovegood. Harry looked stormy. "I see. My Aunt Amelia has recently informed me that your father has decided to join our alliance. Would you care to join myself and my friends? We can get you some proper shoes until the... what were they?"
"Nargles," Lovegood said, straightening up and suddenly looking happier.
"Nargles," Harry nodded. "We can get you some proper shoes or boots until the nargles return your items."
The four girls looked a little uneasy at the glare Harry gave them. Looking back to Luna, Harry held out his arm like he would for her. Daphne figured she should feel jealous, but she really didn't. The girl needed help, and if she was an ally, she needed their protection. Neville hadn't said a word, but his presence had not gone unnoticed. Harry led a smiling Luna away. Neville nodded. "I assume Ms. Lovegood will be left alone? I also assume the nargles will return her possessions?" said Neville in a tone she hadn't heard before. It was hard.
Tracey looked at him with adoration in her eyes. "Merlin," she heard Tracey whisper.
Daphne had to agree. Both boys radiated a power that she liked.
Harry gave her a quick apologetic look as he pulled up to her. She didn't think he needed to apologize. "Heiress Greengrass, Ms. Davis, would you join us?"
"Of course, Scion Potter."
They walked out the alley and down a few shops before the group stopped. Luna was looking at Harry with a cocked head. "When did daddy agree to the alliance?"
"Amelia sent me a letter this morning. She asked me to introduce myself this weekend. Ginny pointed you out to me," Harry told her.
"Am I to be one of your wives?"
Harry's eyes bulged and she understood. Luna was assuming that her father had offered her as the price to be in the alliance. Daphne moved in, taking Harry's other arm. "Ms. Lovegood, the Potter-Greengrass alliance does not require bride prices or anything like that."
Luna turned her sky-blue eyes to her and regarded her. Tracey was laughing silently behind the small blonde. Daphne wanted to scream at her best mate, but her hackles were up. After a few seconds, Daphne actually felt a little unsettled looking at the girl. It was like she was being examined. After a moment, she cocked her head to the other side. "You have a good aura. You are a good match for Harry. I understand why daddy didn't offer me. Thank you for helping. I should be off now. I was following a fox."
"Ms. Lovegood..." Harry started.
"I like Luna. It's like the moon," she said with a smile.
Harry shook his head, as though not knowing what to make of the girl. Daphne certainly didn't.
"Luna. I meant it that we will get you some shoes or something. Those sandals and stocking can't be warm enough," Harry put to her.
The girl gave a faraway smile. "Oh, I am good. I am sure the nargles will return them soon now."
"Luna... can I call you Luna?" Tracey asked.
"Please. It is Tracey?"
"Yes." She cast Daphne a quick glance. Daphne knew what they were going to do. Turning to Harry, she asked, "Can you wait for a little bit?"
"Go take care of her. Why don't Neville and I go cancel the reservation and we can take her to the Three Broomsticks and meet the others," Harry told her.
"I'd rather keep an eye on them," Neville told Harry.
Tracey was already convincing Luna to go to Gladrags with her and Daphne. He gave her a few galleons. "Go. I don't believe it was nargles that has taken her things."
Daphne wasn't either. "I can afford this, Harry."
"You said you want me to be the leader. A leader takes care of their allies."
There was a fluttering in her. Harry was changing a lot in the last month and a half. She went up on her toes and kissed his lips. Her mother was just over five and a half feet. She was on her way there. Harry had to be almost five-seven now. "Don't be long. I don't like you by yourself."
He gave her a smile. "I won't be gone long. I saw a few of our friends go into Scrivenshaft. I will just let them know we are joining them."
Daphne looked at him until Tracey took her arm and they led the bemused Luna towards Gladrags Witches wear. "Do you need a new cloak as well? This one has a few rips," Tracey said to Luna.
Luna looked down. "Oh, that is only from the Forbidden Forest. I will repair it later."
"What are you doing in the Forbidden Forest?" Neville asked behind them.
"Visiting the thestrals. Following the foxes. Daddy says they are known to guard something in the Dark Forest. We think it's an occumany nest. Foxes are known to talk to such animals, and they like to collect silver. They probably take the eggs once they are hatched to line their dens," Luna told them happily. It was like she never had anyone to talk to and her audience was accepting her, even if Tracey, Neville and her were looking at each other worriedly.
-oOo-
October 18, 1994
London, England
Amelia had been seeking this meeting for four months. She had hoped that Croaker would be invited, but it wasn't just anyone that was invited to see the Chief Executive at Gringotts. It was also rumored that Ragnok was the current King of the nations of Great Britain, but no goblin would ever confirm a state secret like that.
She never had any issue with any goblin, but she didn't like being summoned like some schoolgirl that had been caught out of bounds. Especially when the three that had been caught smuggling were going on trial just after Halloween. She put down that anger as the Account Manager led her deeper into the bank than she ever had been before. Riding the carts below the city of London didn't count here.
Four goblins fell in besides her as she turned down a wide hall. At the end were doors made out of a shining, coppery substance. She gave the fully armoured and armed goblins a weary look. Four more joined them half-way down the corridor and a further eight stepped out to block the door. When they stopped, a particularly scarred and ugly looking goblin spoke. "The witch shall leave her wand and any weapons."
She didn't like it, but she didn't protest. Her wand was placed on a felt lined silver tray. Then two knives and when the goblin cleared his throat, she took out the knife in her boot and the small scabbard, a few inches long, that contained a sword that had been on the inside of her robes. There was a reason she had trained most of the Hit Wizards for a decade. "This way, Madam Bones," the guard captain motioned. As she approached the doors, she realized the door was covered in dragon scales.
The room she was led into was large. She was sure that it was half the size of the Gringotts building in Diagon Alley above, with vaulted ceilings, support columns and exotic carpet and pelts on the floor. There were several desks with goblins in them working of something. A dozen guards were in the room, all with crossbows, axes and swords. She missed a step when she saw the goblin sitting behind the largest desk in the center of the back wall... and his guest.
"Afternoon, Amelia. Ragnok and I have been becoming good friends," Sirius said with a grin and raising a cup of tea to her. She glared at him for a moment. The man was going to get them killed with his normal antics... but he was here... she was confused.
The aged looking goblin behind the desk had an air of danger and regalness to him. "Ah, Madam Amelia Bones, Regent of the Ancient and Noble House of Bones. Regent of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter. Daughter to the late Lord Reginald Bones and guardian to the future Lady Bones and Lord Potter. My secretary tells me you have been requesting an audience with me for a few months. I must say I am sorry you did not make it through the vetting process until today."
Unsure of the situation, she walked up to the desk and stopped about ten feet away. Bowing, she said, "Chief Executive Ragnok. Thank you for the opportunity to..."
"Oh, cut with the platitudes, Director Bones. Time is money and you are wasting mine. Take a seat and have some tea or I will ask you to leave," the aged goblin said irritably.
Sirius smirked and raised his teacup again. She pursed her lips and took the only other seat in the room that was not already occupied. "Now, I have summoned you here to save the lives of this man and your own."
She swallowed. Sirius still didn't look like he had a care in the world. He really was as mad as a mad hatter. "Director Ragnok, I must admit I do not know why I am in trouble with the Goblins of Gringotts."
The goblin looked dissatisfied. He motioned and another goblin came forward with a tray that held a mangled cup and still smoking necklace with a large locket. "These were found among Lord Black's items he was having appraised. The cup came from the reclamation of the dowery to Bellatrix Lestrange, the other from items brought by Scion Potter's elf. By Gringotts' law, anyone possessing such items forfeit their lives if not brought to the attention of the goblins for the intention of their destruction."
She was now understanding some of what happened. Something the goblins found abhorrent had been brought into the bank against Goblin Law. She licked her lips. "Are those soul containers?" she asked, realizing that the objects Croaker had taken her looked similarly malformed after destruction of the souls.
The goblin gave a feral smile, making her shiver. "Your next words will decide your fate, Madam Bones. How do you know what these are?"
She gave a look to Sirius. He motioned to tell the truth. After a deep breath to steady her heart and center her occlumency, she looked back to the Director. "Director Ragnok, I am working with a group of Unspeakables and a few others to locate and destroy such objects that belong to the wizard known as Tom Riddle, or the alias Voldemort. We would never have knowingly brought any object like that into this bank."
Ragnok stared at her for a moment.
"That was the same thing I told them, and they brought be here instead of the arena," Sirius glibly said.
She wanted to tell the man to 'shut it' at that second.
After a moment, the goblin shooed the attendant away that had the tray. "Digging up old graves in Egypt and other places have made the Goblins aware of such things. It now explains the fact a wizard of that name is still a customer, even after the reports of his multiple deaths," the goblin said.
She didn't say anything.
"The basilisk that your ward killed; our workers complained of an evil residue while rendering it. That residue is the same on these objects. Am I to assume your ward killed a soul shard as well?"
Her pursed lips tightened.
"Amelia, I have told them what Harry did. Ragnok and others have taken an oath. Ragnok, I assume our deal from the dowery from my beloved cousin is enough to cover the damage and finders' fees for these objects?" Sirius asked.
The goblin nodded. "The fifty-thousand galleons and two goblin made objects are fair compensation, Lord Black. I must insist that should you find any more, you will notify Gringotts as to what to do before you bring them onto our soil again. If not, the blunt blade of an axe is the least you will get," the goblin stated. "Now, get out. I am a busy goblin."
She got up, not daring to ask about getting the now dead horcruxes back. It wasn't until they were out of Gringotts and they both apparated back to Grace Hall that the thought occurred to her. If Croaker was right, then Voldemort was potentially mortal. Including Harry, that was six. Unless he made another one...
She turned to question Sirius on what happened as soon as they both appeared in the atrium of Grace Hall. He was already making for the stairs. She hurried after him. "Sirius, what the bloody hell was that!"
He just waved a hand over his shoulder. Marching into the family sitting room, he stopped at the liquor cabinet. By the time she made it to him, he had two glass tumblers and a bottle of amber scotch in his hands. They were shaking. "You going to tell me what just happened?"
He didn't talk until he poured them both half a glass and he downed half of his. "I was summoned this morning about items found during the appraisal on things from my vaults and Grimmauld Place." He took a smaller swig this time. "Somehow my brother and Bellatrix each had one of those things. Merlin, Amelia. I can see You-Know-Who trusting my insane cousin, but Regulus? He tried to reach out to me just before he disappeared. My brother had one of those things!"
She opened her mouth. Closed it. Then she reached for her glass and took a healthy swig.
"The only reason I didn't have my head taken off in the lobby and put on a pike outside the bank was because I was not the one to order Dobby to do it nor was I the one to put that cup in the Lestrange vault. It was a near thing though." The man looked at her wild eyed before flopping into a chair, spilling some of the scotch. "Once they knew Dobby belonged to Harry, I was able to convince them to talk to his Regent instead of calling him from Hogwarts."
She took another swig. "I assume only because I confirmed your story is the only reason we are back in my home instead of the mines?"
Sirius snorted. "Amelia, they were going to put me into the Arena. I have only heard rumors, but no one ever comes out of that. I was supposed to have my 'trial' at noon, and you were to be the entertainment for the night, if you lasted that long." He took another swig.
"Merlin," she said, sitting herself. How close had they come to being killed? "They are definitely destroyed?"
Sirius laughed a little manically for a moment. "They are dead. I saw them poke the locket with a spear. It did nothing. It took a battle axe made of goblin silver swung by the scariest goblin I have ever seen six tries to finally crack it."
She let out a sigh. "That may be all of them," she said, feeling a great wave of relief.
He laughed again. "Merlin, I hope so."
She lifted her glass, toasting him. He shook his head and did the same, emptying his glass.
-oOo-
October 19, 1994
Hogwarts, Scotland
Harry was still smiling at the new turn in his relationship with Daphne. He had only been doing the right thing by Luna, recognizing someone being bullied. Daphne had been understanding that their 'first real date' hadn't gone far. Harry wasn't really sure what that meant, and he hadn't been sure about Westford's. Instead, they had a very good time and laughed with the others they met at the Three Broomsticks. After they had gotten back to the castle, Harry got his first lesson in why so many found broom closets around the castle so interesting. Daphne had kissed differently. It was more heated. Their lips moved more. She had wrapped her arms around his neck, and he felt her body through her jeans and blouse. She didn't pull away when it was obvious something was straining in his pants...
Neither of them were willing to let hands wander yet, but it was a heady kissing session.
Harry had earned the kiss that day and he was determined to earn more.
In the last few days, he had kept an eye on Luna. He hadn't been lying. Amelia was in negotiations with the Lovegoods that she was confident would lead to them joining the alliance. She did want him to introduce himself to her, and the rest of the alliance here. He had planned on doing it Sunday.
Watching her, Luna was sitting at the end of the Ravenclaw table. No one was sitting near her. He was happy to see her boots on today, and not the ones Daphne and Tracey got her. "You said there is no rule about sitting at another table?" he put to Hermione.
"No. Only on feasts and special meals," Hermione confirmed.
He had been looking for a reason to sit with Daphne but thought going to the Snakes was a step too far with how many looked at him with disdain.
Neville looked over, and Ron looked at him curiously. Ron had taken to sitting with them most days, with Dean and Seamus also. "Where are you going?" Ron asked as he stood up.
"To sit with our new friend," he told them.
Hermione blinked, looked to Luna and understood. He walked over, in the middle of lunch, and sat next to Luna. She was reading a magazine and eating a pudding. Harry looked at it for a moment. There hadn't been any pudding on the tables. Luna didn't look up.
"Hello, Luna," he said.
"Hello, Harry Potter. You don't need to sit with me. I understand I am not usual and appreciate what you, your intended and your friends did," she said, turning the magazine upside down.
"Luna, if your father is part of the alliance, so are you. We don't leave anyone out," Harry told her, making a new sandwich. He was still hungry. Hermione and Neville sat across from him.
"Did father not offer my hand to you? That is typical for an alliance. The joining of two houses is not done without some payment or bonding," Luna said.
Neville squeezed his eyes shut while Hermione spluttered at the idea.
"I assure you, Amelia would never do something like that. I am sure Lord Greengrass would not either," he told her.
Luna cocked her head to the side as she turned a page.
"Luna, why would you suggest that?" Hermione asked, sounding put out.
"It is traditional," Luna said. "Even if I know daddy and I are not traditional. What is a platypuss? It sounds so odd."
Harry couldn't keep the laugh in. She had talked about nargles, wrackspurts and crumpled-horned snorkacks... and she found platypus odd?
"It's a monotreme from Australia. One of only two mammals that lay eggs," Hermione told her.
Luna lowered her magazine. "That sounds a little farfetched. Why would a non-magical mammal do something like that?"
Neville chuckled at Hermione's odd look. "Luna, they are real animals. I have seen them when my parents took me to Australia the summer before I started at Hogwarts."
Luna just looked at Hermione with her sky-blue eyes. There was a thoughtful look on the small blonde's face. "Odd," she commented. Luna looked at the magazine and then at Hermione again. "Would you give me an interview on it? Daddy would like that to put in his mythical beasts column." Luna gave a chuckle. "An egg laying mammal."
Hermione was about to say something else when Harry gave her a look. When she talked, she said, "That sounds great. Maybe tomorrow before dinner?"
Luna gave her a smile. "Brilliant. Now, this must be farfetched."
"What?"
Harry looked over her shoulder and laughed again. "Luna, that is an ostrich."
She looked at the magazine and turned it sideways. "Its neck is to thin and why would the muggles want something that has razor sharp wings?"
"Dear, Merlin," Hermione muttered and hit her head on the table.
Neville looked to be holding in his laughter. "Luna, doesn't your father publish the Quibbler?"
"Oh, yes. He collects all the stories himself. He usually prints the truth or about our explorations for unknown magical beasts, but this issue is just odd," she told them, turning the magazine the other way. "There can't be whales larger than sea serpents."
Hermione sat up. She looked like she wanted to argue. "Luna, I don't know how large sea serpents get, but I think blue whales get to almost a hundred feet long."
Luna looked at Hermione oddly again and then the picture of the whale that had been taken from overhead. "Do you think a crumpled-horn snorkack could be a non-magical animal? Or hide among them? That might make sense. Oh, they are much brighter than I thought. Daddy should know about this. We should figure out where they might hide. Next summer, we can go on another expedition. You are brilliant, Hermione. I don't know why we never had the same idea. You are a Ravenclaw. I need to go send this idea off to daddy."
"Luna. But, Luna! Luna!" Hermione called after the excited blonde and got up to run after her. "I never said anything like that. And I am a Gryffindor!"
Harry was laughing and Neville was hitting the table as he tried to keep it in.
"Merlin! Did she really just do that to Hermione?" Neville wheezed.
Harry took a moment to calm enough to reply. "I like that girl already."
Two girls and a boy sat next to them while Neville and him were still laughing. He nodded to them. "Afternoon," he tried to get out.
"What are you doing sitting at this table and talking to Loony? I also heard you hassled a few Ravenclaw girls this weekend," the boy said.
Harry sobered quickly. "I'm sorry, I don't know who you are."
Neville had sobered too.
"Robert Blight. Dorothea Everwand. Wilamena Terrence." The boy had dark hair and dark eyes. Dorothea was a cute, but very haughty looking, girl with long, light brown hair and light eyes. Wilamena was a larger girl with dirty blonde hair and blue eyes. They were obviously sixth or seventh years.
"Harry Potter and Neville Longbottom. Why is it your business who we sit with?"
"It's against the rules to sit at other tables and I wouldn't associate with the Loon," Dorothea said.
"There is no rule like that," Neville countered.
"I think I know the rules. I am a Prefect..." Dorothea was interrupted as she pointed to the badge on her robes.
"I think you need to read them again. We are only required to sit by House for feasts and special occasions. I doubt lunch on a Monday is a special occasion," Harry snarked.
The three Ravenclaw eyed him. "I am going to report you for detention," she countered.
Roger and a few of his friends came over. " Afternoon, Mr. Blight, Ms. Terrence and Heiress Everwand. Scion Potter and Scion Longbottom, is there an issue here?"
The three Ravenclaw that had sat with them suddenly looked a little uneasy. "Davis," Blight responded.
Harry shook his head. "No, I do not think there is, Scion Davis. Heiress Everwand was going to review the Student Rule book before she embarrasses herself."
Roger nodded his head. "Yes. A Ravenclaw always prides themselves with their accurate knowledge. Next time if you wish, you are welcome to join me and my friends. Allies are always welcome."
Harry nodded his head, as did Neville. "As are you. I am sure the Gryffindors will be much more accepting of following the rules."
Roger nodded back with a grin. "I hear the Gryffindors always follow rules. I may have something to discuss with you. Maybe I will have the Hogwarts Quidditch team join us? Oh, and father sent me a letter today. It appears the Lovegoods have joined us in our alliance. I think I shall sit with Heiress Lovegood for dinner."
Harry had to bite the inside of his mouth to keep from laughing to see the look on the other three. "We shall join you."
Roger nodded again and walked away. Neville cast him a look and held up two book bags. It was time to see if they could find Hermione. "Please excuse us. I look forward to seeing you at dinner," Harry replied and got the winces or angry looks he was hoping for.
As they left, they caught their Slytherin friends joining them. "Where is Daphne?"
"She excused herself to the bathroom. She thought Granger rushed out like she was, ah, having problems," Tracey told them.
Harry looked at her oddly, not understanding. Blaise's eyes looked ready to laugh at him. "You know, girl things," Tracey whispered.
He suddenly got it and wished he hadn't. "She was just following Luna," he said in an embarrassed voice.
"Oh. So, she didn't give the sign she needed help?" Millie asked.
"Ah, I don't know."
-oOo-
October 23, 1994
Hogwarts, Scotland
Harry was not used to sitting in the stands and watching his girl fly. He sat next to Hermione, while the rest of the group sat a few rows down. Harry wanted to be high to watch Daphne. The pickup league was able to hobble together four teams today, so they would get to watch two matches. Unlike a normal match, Madam Hooch had agreed to an hour-and-a-half each match.
It was about thirty minutes in, and his eyes had not left Daphne except to search for the snitch. She was decent. A good flyer, but not really experienced in how to play. She was running one of the search patterns he had taught her. Harry was just pleased that Lord Greengrass had given her permission... well, that was after Harry had written to him and promised the man he would train her himself and given an oath she would be alright. Since this was a fun league, he had been able to put some cushioning and motion arresting charms on her gear to keep her from getting too hurt if she was to hit the ground, or another player.
A second year Gryffindor was shadowing her. The girl, Racheal Carrick, was decent as well. He might need to suggest to Angelina to give her a shot or make her an alternate. Gryffindor would need a good seeker and he wasn't impressed with McLaggen so far.
Daphne snapped her head to the side. Harry winced. He had seen the snitch too, but what she had just done was like telegraphing its location to the second-year. Carrick looked and they were both off, Carrick on a Nimbus 2000, just like the one he let Daphne use.
Daphne was off first, but it was quickly apparent that Racheal was a better flyer.
"At least Daphne isn't as reckless as you," Hermione said from besides him as they cheered Daphne on. They had thought they would be cheering Blaise on too, but he had been accepted onto the Slytherin team this year, with two of their beaters and one Chaser graduating last year, and Vasey making primary Keeper on the Hogwarts team, Slytherin needed the bodies. Harry was interested to see if he was a good Keeper.
Daphne had pulled up a good fifteen feet from the ground as Racheal screamed past her. Harry had caught why though. The snitch had made a right turn and the move allowed Daphne to level out and dive without much speed loss. Racheal overshot the snitch and had to do an impressive turn but lost a bit of ground and momentum.
Daphne was a good eight broom lengths ahead now and was able to shoot up as the snitch took up into the air. Alright, his girlfriend had been holding out on him. Blaise, Millie, and Luna were just watching Daphne. Tracey was shaking Neville as she hopped up and down and Susan, Hannah and Ernie were shouting loudest of them all. Some were looking at them oddly, but Harry didn't care. This whole house rivalry thing was starting to get to him.
Daphne reached out as Racheal tried to catch up with her. The girl was less than two broom lengths away when Daphne closed her hand and leveled off.
Harry had no idea that seeing Daphne, her hair wild, a huge grin on her face and holding the snitch up as she floated down, and the whistle blew would start this strange fire in him.
"That was impressive. Why can't you be so methodical," Hermione enquired, a cheeky grin on her face.
"Oh, shut it," Harry said back with a laugh.
It was a little while later that he met Daphne outside the changing rooms. She was in the faded jeans she had started to wear many weekends and she had a huge smile on her face. He rushed up to her, picked her off the ground and spun her around, not caring who was around. "That was brilliant!"
Daphne laughed and quieted when he kissed her in mid swing. Really not caring where they were, it was a deeper kiss than any he could remember and for the first time his tongue ghosted her lips. She seemed shocked first, before her arms were around his neck. It wasn't long for her tongue to meet his, and they shared their first real snog before a few wolf whistles came to them.
Both separated, realizing what they were doing and that they were in the middle of the passageway that led from the pitch to the outside. At some point, he had stopped spinning her, putting her feet on the ground. She took a half step back, her arms still around his shoulders.
"Don't let us stop you," George called out as he wrapped an arm around Alicia Spinnet's shoulders.
"Oh, leave them be," Alicia scolded him, hitting his chest.
"It's cute and he is my teammate," Katie said towards George.
Fred gave them a big wink. "He's ours too."
"Oi, you woman always beating us," George said with a grin after Katie playfully hit Fred. "Good on. Get back to what you were doing."
"It was good technique," Fred added.
Harry wanted to retort but Angelina whacked Fred off the back of his head before he could. "Shut it, you."
"Oi! Abuse," Fred shouted. The girls just laughed at him.
"Good catch, Greengrass. I might be worried if we were playing against you," Angelina said with a smile and then was by them. Harry was too red to say anything back. A few others walked by before they were alone again.
Daphne put her face into his chest. "I can't believe I kissed you like that in the open."
Harry, still red, found he didn't care. "Does it matter? It's not like we aren't dating."
She pulled back to look up at him, the green veins in her brown eyes showing. "What would father and mother say?"
"Does it matter?" he asked again, feeling drawn to her again. Her eyes were now half-lidded and her mouth partially open in a slight frown. He pulled her closer and she didn't resist. He could tell she was uncomfortable, so he only pecked her on the lips.
She looked into his eyes for a moment. Harry wanted to snog her again at the way his body reacted to her. Without warning, she fully wrapped her hands around the back of his neck and pulled him in. It was a few minutes of bliss before she let him go. They were both breathing a little heavily. "You are explaining to father if we get caught."
He gave her a huge dopy smile. "You keep kissing me like that and I'll explain to anyone you want."
She giggled at him, and they separated. Daphne took his hand. "I'm hungry and its almost lunch time," she told him.
"Will you sit with us today? Or I can join you," he put to her.
Daphne looked thoughtful as they walked out of the stadium. The second game would be after lunch, and most had left by now. As they walked out, she took on a little more of her normal stance. After a few, she said, "You cannot sit with the Slytherins. Most are weary right now with the changes in the rules here. I heard Lord Malfoy was furious after Draco's punishment and threat, but he has lost all his influence on the Governors now."
"Will you sit with us then? I would rather protect you," Harry told her.
She pulled him over and kissed his cheek. "You are sweet when you act that way. I will convince the others."
"Good. Luna should be joining us too," he told her. Since last week, he had found that he was feeling a little protective of the girl. He also liked how she flustered Hermione. Roger, now knowing what had happened, also went to Professor Flitwick and had extended the protection of his friends to her.
Daphne giggled. "Think I can get her to rile Hermione again?"
"I doubt you have to try," Harry replied.
She pulled him down for a kiss on his cheek again. "I will sit with you only if you don't enchant my gear again. I felt what you did."
He looked guiltily at her. "Yeah, well..." he said, knowing he would do it again. He did not want to upset Lord Greengrass. Though upsetting Daphne may be worse...
"I also know what father told you. Thank you. Oh, this is for you," Daphne said, holding out the snitch.
"It's your first catch. Every seeker should keep their first catch," he told her.
She gave him a cheeky grin. "It's not my first catch." She slipped the snitch into his pocket and pulled him to peck his lips.
-oOo-
October 31, 1994
Hogwarts, Scotland
Amelia was standing at the back of the hall. Eight Aurors had been assigned to the school and two of them had been guarding the cup since it was lit yesterday. She still wanted to cancel this blasted tournament but couldn't. Minerva looked just as tense as Bagman stood up. He gave some inane speech about the challenge and honour it was to compete.
When the first name came out, she was pleased to see the support around the room for Victor Krum. The boy had an unimpressed, surly look as he walked out. She snorted when half the boys in the room looked to want to jump up and follow the pretty French-girl, Fleur Delacour. By far, it was the loudest when Cedric Diggory's name came out.
When it did, she relaxed some.
Once Bagman and Minerva made some last-minute words, she waited to see Susan and Harry leave. Susan gave her a huge smile, and looked to want to give her a hug, but didn't. Amelia was on duty tonight. Harry gave her a nod as he walked by with Hermione and Neville. She wanted to congratulate her niece and nephew of making their perspective Quidditch teams, but she would make time for them when she was back here on Saturday to oversee the Weighing of the Wands.
Most everyone looked excited as they left.
By the time she made it to the anteroom, Bagman was already going over the first clue. It wasn't as 'subtle' as the one Crouch had originally wanted to use. She saw the three Champions pale a little at the mention of having to 'charm' a dragon to get a 'treasure'. It was the best they could do. At least they wouldn't have to swim through the Black Lake anymore.
Once they left, Ludo, Minerva and St. Pierre stuck around with the staff and the Headmasters from the other school.
"Here is the contract you can go over with your Champions. Remember, there cannot be any direct help from your staff or any judges," St. Pierre told them.
"'You are sure they are safe? Dragons?" Headmistress Maxime asked.
"I can assure you that goblin ward weavers have been contracted and my best Aurors will be present to help the dragon handlers," Amelia spoke up.
The giant woman still didn't look pleased. "Dragons! W'o idea was this?"
"I am afraid it was my predecessor, the old Headmaster and a few others. We have taken all the precautions we can, but it will still be dangerous. I can tell you that the second task has been changed and should be more enjoyable than what was originally planned," said St. Pierre.
"Why are you worried? They are all of age and should be able to handle a dragon," Igor Karkaroff stated.
She didn't like the man and would have him watched while on the grounds. Any former Death Eater was a concern, no matter how changed they claimed to be.
"Dragons are no laughing matter, Headmaster," Minerva stated. "I will not have any serious injuries or deaths."
"No one said anything about deaths," Ludo shot into the conversation. "This will be exciting. Now, if we are done talking about the Triwizard Tournament, can we get onto the Quidditch Tournament?" the man said with some relish.
-oOo-
A/N: Ok, the Luna and the platypus idea was taken from another story I read. I really can't remember what story. I would like to give full credit, and I think I implemented the scene differently, but it's one I have wanted to do since reading it. If anyone knows what story, you can PM me and I will give the credit where do.
Also, I hope you like my version of Luna. She will not be this flighty for long, but I picture her as someone very lonely. I always thought she used her 'delusions' to mask her loneliness, cope with the bullying and probably the death of her mother. She will remain quirky but get better.