JKRowling owns Harry Potter and all the characters in that story.

FASA owns Earthdawn

§ - Parseltongue will start and end with § and be in italics. §"Example of Parseltongue"§

Note that the first section is similar to a chapter of Chimera Rising, but that story is on hold until I have time to get back to it. So, I am repurposing it.

—CS—

Special thanks to my Beta Reader, the 'MoleOfWar' for the excellent feedback and diligent work in making the story better.

Broken Promises

Hogsmeade

May 7, 1977

Nigel Rosier looked up at Hogwarts in the distance and wished he had skipped this weekend's trip. His NEWTs were rapidly approaching and he needed to buckle down if he was going to get better than 'Acceptable' scores in Transfiguration. And he really didn't want to see Sophia. Why had he let his friends talk him into one last Hogsmeade weekend? After a few hours of wandering about, he was ready to go back.

"Nige! Stop thinking about your NEWTs. You've been doing that all morning."

Nigel looked over at his two closest friends, Silas Burke and Nathan Lestrange. Silas has gotten his attention and Nathan was smirking beside him. Neither of his friends seemed to be concerned about their NEWTs.

All three of the boys had dark hair and blue eyes… Not surprising considering how closely they were related. First and second cousins all. Visually, they could all be brothers. But in personality, they were very different. Silas was the large athletic member of their group and Nathan was the lean and athletic member of the trio. He was also the smoothest talker. Nigel knew where he fit in. He was the intellectual bookworm. Despite being so different, they meshed well together as they all seemed to balance one another out.

The three weren't just cousins, they had also been best mates for seven years. Silas was the forceful and aggressive one, and Nathan was the fun one, and he was the analytical member of their little coterie. For seven years they'd been inseparable, but these fun school days were coming to an end. In a little over a month, they'd graduate and go their separate ways. Always family, but no longer living, eating, and studying together.

"Mates, I really need to study." His friends continued smirking. "My parents have made it clear I need at least an Exceeds Expectations in transfiguration for a favorable position in the ministry. Same with Charms and Potions." He really wasn't worried about Charms or Potions. He had an easy Exceeds Expectation score in the bag with a good possibility of an Outstanding in both. Transfiguration was a struggle for him.

Silas snorted. "Why bother with the ministry Nige? There are better opportunities out there." His smile faded and his eyes lost their mirth. "You know what I'm talking about."

He meant joining up with the pureblood movement. Nigel didn't want to admit it to his friends, but following the new Dark Lord just wasn't something he was interested in. He may support their goals and ideals, but not their methods. They were shameful.

Nathan stepped forward. "Come on Nige, let the books go for a day." Nathan clasped his shoulder. "It'll be fun. I promise!"

Nathan always kept his promises.

Nigel considered his option to leave for one last, brief, and final moment.

With a grin, Nigel decided he'd have one last outing. Then, he'd hit the books hard. His friends both cheered when they saw him relax.

Silas said, "Attaboy! I knew you'd come through."

Nigel asked, "Alright, what the plan for this afternoon?"

They'd already been to Zonko's and perused the different shops on High Street. Each had purchased various sundries from Honeydukes, Dervish and Bangles, J. Pippin's, and Tomes and Scrolls. After years of Hogsmeade weekends, there just wasn't much new to do.

Silas gave him a conspiratorial grin. "You'll see." Nathan looked just as amused.

Nigel knew Silas had a ruthless streak and his look was worrisome. Nathan was usually good natured, but he could be a sadistic bastard. Had he made the wrong choice?

Silas put his arm around him. "First, we grab a bite at the three Broomsticks. Emma and Olivia will probably be there. Maybe even Sophia—"

Nathan interrupted, "Nah, Sophia's with Gerrod."

"The Ravenclaw ponce?" Silas snorted, then gave Nigel a sympathetic look. "Is that why you've been down all week?"

"No, I just…" Nigel started to deny it, then just shrugged. "Well, maybe."

Nathan said. "Forget her mate. You can do better." There was no malice in his voice, just a simple matter of fact statement. "Besides, we're not here for the birds, this is a mate's only weekend. Probably the last one before we graduate."

Silas said, "Damn straight."

The next hour and a half was spent at the Three Broomsticks. They primarily stayed in the unofficial 'Slytherin' corner. Olivia and Emma were both there as well, but neither had time for Silas or Nathan. They were more interested in the latest issue of Witch Weekly. Apparently, some famous Quidditch player was seen with some new witch. It was all rather droll, but watching Silas and Nathan try to break in had been amusing. So much for 'mates only'. At least Sophia and Gerrod weren't here. They were probably at Madam Puddifoot's. Shite.

Glancing around the room, he noticed the dark and brooding Snape conspiring in a corner with Mulciber. All whispers and sly looks. Pathetic. Two angry fifth years with a multitude of scores to settle. No doubt they were plotting some stupid act against Potter and Black. Avery was probably on his way to join them. Why didn't they see how pointless it all was? Didn't they realize how much time was wasted on personal grudges and social trivialities?

Nigel refocused on his own group as they interacted with other friends and housemates. A few third year students seemed a bit lost, so Silas sat them down and gave them the overview of Hogsmeade. Nathan made a point of telling them what to look for at Zonko's and how to sneak it into the school. Helping the younger students in their house was a time honored tradition. Nigel watched and observed, thinking how much he'd miss these carefree days.

All good fun.

Until it wasn't.

Silas led their little group down High Street to Ollivander's Hogsmeade branch. They went inside and Nathan purchased a wand cleaning and treatment kit. Silas purchased a new holster that seemed overly ostentatious to Nigel. It was odd as neither of his friends actually needed any of the products they purchased. Once outside, both of his friends were unusually interested in the attached book shop, 'McKinnon's Rare Books'. Nigel was more concerned with the small group watching them.

Across the street, four infamous Gryffindor fifth years were paying them rapt attention. Their every move was tracked by either Potter, Black or one of the other two. Of the four, only Potter and Black were real threats. Maybe Lupin on a good day, but Pettigrew was a joke. Potter and Black… No one in their right mind would casually take on those two without backup. Especially Black. Despite being a Gryffindor, he was as vicious as they came. But what were they doing way out in this remote section of Hogsmeade?

After leaving, Silas led them a good block away before stopping. Something was up and Nigel was wondering what this was all about.

Silas glanced over his shoulder, then looked back at his friends. "This may not work out."

Nathan said, "I saw the Mudblood in McKinnon's, we just need to wait a bit."

Silas began tapping his wand on his hand. "Not with those Gryffindor's loitering about." He looked back across the street again and it was clear the Gryffs were watching our group as well.

Nathan shook his head, "We just need to wait a bit. First, we walk off and go about our business. Later, we double back when we're not being watched."

Nigel wasn't sure what they were getting at. "What in Merlin's name are you two talking about?"

Nathan smiled, but it held no warmth. "Evans. We're going to have a private word with Lily Evans." He said the name with mocking contempt.

Shite. "I thought she was off limits." He hadn't signed up for this.

"Not since she broke Snape's pitiful little heart." Silas twisted his face in a sneer. "Filthy Mudblood whore. Always with her high opinions."

Nigel wanted no part of this. "Why now? Can't we just enjoy our last Hogsmeade weekend?"

Nathan reached out and put his hand on Nigel's shoulder. He did that a lot. "We won't get another chance like this, Nige."

Silas agreed. "Prince and McKinnon left Hogsmeade early. Olivia overheard them talking about studying for their OWLs. That means Evans will be alone when she leaves the store." Nigel wished he was back at the castle studying.

Nigel pointed out the obvious. "Except for Black and Potter." He added after a moment, "And those other two buffoons."

Nathan squeezed his shoulder lightly. "Those pranksters will get bored and leave when they think we've moved on." He leaned in a little. "We need this, mate."

"What do mean? How in Merlin's name do you need this?" Maybe he could convince them to leave.

Silas moved in as well, but in a less sociable way. "We. Need. This." Every word pronounced with wicked intent.

Nigel felt Nathan's hand pull away from his shoulder. With the removal of contact, he realized how alone he really was. Neither of his two friends now seemed quite as friendly. He could feel both of their stares burning into him. He avoided their eyes and looked down at his feet.

Nathan made a clicking noise with his tongue and broke the tension. "Look Nige, Evans is a mouthy bint who's run her mouth one too many times. She's so full of herself and her ridiculous opinions." He sneered and continued. "The other Mudbloods all look up to her as they talk about equality and their rightful place… They all forget that they've never contributed a damn thing to our society. Not a single thing."

Nigel had heard this before. Evans was universally despised inside Slytherin house. Snape had tried to moderate the opinion for years, but now he just left the room when her name came up. Lily Evans represented everything most of Slytherin house despised. A strong willed and charismatic Mudblood. One who didn't think a families descendants should benefit from the sacrifices of their ancestors.

Silas said, "This is our last year at Hogwarts and we need to make a name for ourselves." He was still tapping his hand with his wand, but the temp had picked up. "We need to show our allegiance."

Nathan added, "And what better way than to break the most outspoken Mudblood at school?"

Nigel was starting to sweat. "We'll get caught. She's McGonagall's favourite—"

"I don't see McGonagall around here, do you?" Silas was getting annoyed and it showed.

Nathan said, "Come on Nige, I promised you a good time, right?"

Nigel kept his mouth shut and assessed the situation. Both of his friends were wanting to do this, but they had no real guarantee of success. With the other Gryffs around, it was far less likely they'd be successful. Odds were, they'd just walk around a bit, then head back to the castle. Yeah… Potter and Black wouldn't just leave. What did he have to worry about?

His voice cracked slightly as he asked, "What's the plan?" Nigel knew he had passed some test.

Silas grinned. "We leave and quietly double back. When she heads back to the castle, we grab her."

Nathan said, "Then we put her in her place. After she's broken, we obliviate her and leave. No one will be the wiser." His face darkened and his eyes glittered cruelly. "But she'll know. She'll know someone hurt her." His eyes gleamed with malice.

"When we're done, she'll know better than to run her mouth." Silas seemed very pleased with the plan. "No more uppity talk."

Nigel nodded along, but inside he was frightened. Evans may be a Mudblood, but she was a stunningly attractive one. He knew Nathan was game for anything involving a witch and his tastes tended to run to an unsavory level of cruelty. Hopefully they would just… scare her. Please let it be nothing more.

Suddenly, it hit him, "Do either of you know how to cast a memory charm?" They were damn risky if you didn't know what you were doing.

Silas shrugged, "How hard can it be. Worst case, Evans is brain scrambled." He chuckled. "I can live with that. Besides, you're our charms expert."

Nigel wanted to say something, but didn't have any words. His mouth was just hanging open.

Nathan laughed and slapped his back. "Relax Nige, we won't get caught." His voice was silky and confident.

They walked off and around High Street for a few hours until the sun began to set and the shadows began to lengthen. Silas and Nathan joked around and made small talk, but Nigel was too nervous. He knew they were now doubling back to the book store. Hopefully Potter and Black would still be there when they doubled back. Then they'd have to return or risk breaking curfew. Detention before NEWTs was a terrifying prospect.

He worked up the courage and asked, "What're you planning to do? To Evans? Aside from Obliviating her."

Silas thought a moment, then said, "We need to practice the Cruciatus curse."

Nigel stopped and stared at them. "Why do you need to practice that curse?"

Nathan said, "We've made no secret or our post-graduation plans, Nige."

Silas seemed incredibly serious. "We're joining up with the movement, Nigel. You know how important it is. To our families. To our way of life."

"Yes. Yes of course." Nigel agreed on reflex. But did he really agree? Why couldn't he just go back to studying for his NEWTs?

Nathan said, "So, this is our way into the ranks. Think of it as a line on our resume." He put his hand on Nigel's shoulder again. "You're either with us or against us, mate. What's it gonna be?" Again with the silky words. But the eyes were no longer those of a friend.

Before Nigel could respond, Silas hushed them. "Hush!"

Silas then pointed to a figure walking along a small trail behind High Street toward the castle. Lily Evans was alone on the outskirts of the village. All alone and not a witness in sight. She casually looked over and saw the three of them. Her eyes widened and her pace quickened. Fear.

The three of them began following her as she kept looking over her shoulder. She was walking at a brisk pace, but they were slowing closing the distance. Nigel, felt deep sympathy and concern for the girl. 'Run! Please, RUN!' he thought. And she seemed to hear his thoughts. She took off in a sprint and the three of them followed suit. Nigel prayed she would out run them.

They pursued the girl for a good ten minutes or so until she squeezed through a fence and ran into an abandoned house. Nigel felt his stomach flutter as he realized they were far enough away from the rest of the village that Nathan and Silas would have no fear of discovery.

They stopped at the front door and caught their breath. It had been a long chase, but it was nearing the end now. A quick Detection Charm showed her to be inside. This was really happening.

Nathan said, "The locals call this place the Shrieking Shack." He shook his head and laughed. "How appropriate."

"Hah!" Silas laughed before taking charge. "Nathan, go around back and cast a locking charm on all the first level doors and windows. I'll cover the front windows. Nigel, you watch the front door and stop her if she tries to escape."

Nathan took off. Nigel reached out and grasped Silas arm. "Silas, this isn't right. Come on mate, just let her go. Surely you can see how scared she was. She knows her place—" A sharp pain on the right side of his face stopped him.

Silas had just back handed him.

"Pull it together, Nigel!" Silas looked ready to strike him again. "I've put up with your pathetic weaknesses for seven years, but it ends here. Today. You will help put the Mudblood in her place and you will enjoy it! Unless you'd like to join her?"

The fear in Nigel's face answered that question. Calming a bit, Silas took a different tactic. "Look, stay with us. You don't have to go to the extremes Nathan and I may go to, just do enough that the Dark Lord will accept you into his ranks."

Nigel nodded. He just didn't see a way out of this. Maybe he could use a few stinging hexes…

They were both quiet for a moment, then Silas said, "This will get you in, Nigel. Help us put her in her place and back us up when we say we were together and never saw her. Then you can join into the new movement with us after we graduate."

Silas gave a brief nod. "Good."

Nathan came around the other side of the house. "The back door is secure and the windows are all locked. Maybe she can overpower the locks, but it'll take time."

Nathan's gaze lingered on Nigel's face. Right where he'd been slapped. He winced and gave Nigel a sympathetic nod. As cruel as Nathan could be, he was uncharacteristically supportive of friends and family.

Silas gripped his wand until his knuckles turned white. "OK, the Evans is smart, don't underestimate her. She may even try to blast her way out the back. Don't let her. Nathan, follow me." He then gave a steely eyes look at Nigel. "Nigel, stay near the front door, just in case she manages to get by us. We'll call for you once she's incapacitated."

Nigel stood there, his face still stinging from the slap. He watched his two friends dart into the house and realized his hands were trembling. Evans was supposed to be talented, maybe she'd get past them. If she did, and she came through the front door, he'd step aside. Silas and Nathan and their damned Dark Lord could go to hell for all he cared. His hands were still shaking. This was happening.

There were sounds of a skirmish and the windows lit up with flashes of spell-fire, then it all abruptly ended. It was a moment of reckoning, he could stay or go. But if he left, he would make powerful and vindictive enemies. He closed his eyes and fought back tears. He knew he had to stay. How would he ever look his mother and sister in the eye? Had his cousin Evan done anything like this? If only he had listened to his mum and gone to Beauxbaton's.

He heard Silas call out, "Nigel, get your ass in here!"

This was it. If he walked in, he would be on that path for the rest of his life. In the service of the rising Dark Lord. Friend to cruel and vicious bastards like Silas and Nathan for the rest of his life. Had they always been cruel? The alternative was that the same vicious bastards would become his enemies. He and those he cared about would be their future victims. Would his brother Evan pay the price? Or his little sister? There really was no choice.

Nigel walked inside the dirty entranceway. He hated himself more and more with each step. His heart was racing and he could feel every beat. Evans had never done anything to him. She even used to defend Snape before he called her a Mudblood. If Nigel had any real choice or alternative, he'd take it. But he didn't. He would force himself to participate and try not to show any emotion.

No tears. Be strong. Why were his hands shaking so damn hard?

He walked into the room at the end of the hallway. The house was dirty and dusty, but it seemed structurally sound. Minimal creaking. The room appeared empty. Suddenly, he felt a hand on his mouth and a sharp pain in his neck. An icy chill radiated from his neck and through his body.

"Shhhhh. Relax Nigel, you're safe." The words were soft and the voice was soothing. His arms and legs lost their strength and his wand clattered to the floor. "The nightmare is over. Sleep now, I've got you. I've got you…"

Nigel's body went numb and all he could feel was the beating of his heart. 'Bum-Bump', 'Bum-Bump'. He was gently laid out on the floor. 'Bum-Bump', 'Bum-Bump'. Looking up he saw the face of Lily Evans. 'Bum-bump', 'bum-bump' .Her green eyes sparkling. 'bum-bump'. Her features slowly changed and came to resemble his own. 'bum… bu…' He saw the doppelganger smile down at him.

His head slowly rotated to the side. The darkness closed in, then receded as his vision returned. He was now gazing upon a bedside table. A pitcher of water and a small clock slowly came into focus. He was Harry Potter and he was in his bed at Grimmauld Place. According to the clock, it was almost 5AM.

—CS—

Grimmauld Place

~ 5AM Saturday

October 6, 2001

Harry sat immediately and grasped his neck, relieved there was no pain. He scanned his room to see if Nigel Rosier's ghost was present, but he was alone. No ghost this time, but that dream had been definitely seemed real. This was now the second time he had dreamt about a metamorphmagus killing people. There was no chance that had been his mother… Someone was wearing her face. Was it the same person who killed Lavender while wearing his face? It had to be. Probably. Maybe?

Whoever it was had lured those boys into the Shrieking Shack and murdered them. It was such an unusual killing. Why go to such elaborate means to kill three students? Why use poison instead of a curse? The boys had obviously been intent on harming his mother, but someone had interfered. Not that he felt any pity for them, they were all willing to torture a defenseless girl. But was the killer trying to protect his mother, or was he just using her face to kill those boys? Was the killer a he?

Stepping out of bed, Harry poured a glass of water from the pitcher and drank his fill. After a short stretch, he put on his exercise clothes and headed to the gym in his attic. A good workout would help him clear his head.

Why couldn't he just dream about flying or winning the lottery like normal people?

—CS—

Grimmauld Place

~ 8AM Saturday

October 6, 2001

Harry relaxed at his kitchen table and sipped his tea while stroking Fawkes' feathers. His workout had been intense and his shower long and hot. It gave him time to consider his vision in more detail, but he hadn't drawn any new conclusions. The vision was maybe twenty five years old and involved Hogwarts students two years ahead of his parents. This was something he'd research when he got back from South America.

He heard Teddy and Kreacher coming down stairs. Teddy was telling Kreacher about a dream he'd had about friendly dragons. Teddy's dream sounded a lot better than the one Harry had experienced. It was such a marvel the way Kreacher was with his god son. Patient and gentle. He must have been like this with Regulus as well. Teddy entered the room in green pajamas holding the stuffed badger Pomona had given him.

Harry said, "Hi Teddy-Bear! What do you have there?"

Teddy held up his badger. "Huffy." He then pulled the plush toy into his arms and walked over to Harry. Harry realized Pomona was pulling out all stops in recruiting his godson. The stuffed badger was brilliant.

Harry pulled his son into his lap. "Huffy the Hufflepuff. That's a good name." Harry managed not to laugh. "You know, your mum was in Hufflepuff and she really amazing."

The boy nodded and said, "Nimfadoor."

Harry kissed the top of Teddy's head. "Right!" He shifted and stood up, placing Teddy in the chair. "Now, how would you like a stack of buttery slapjacks?"

Teddy shook his head, his mouth drawn tight. "Pancakes!"

"Silly Billie!" Harry ruffled his hair. "Slapjacks are just another name for pancakes."

Teddy scrunched up his face, then smiled. "Okay. Blueberry slapjacks!"

"Sounds like a plan, little man!"

Teddy laughed and Kreacher began making the batter while Harry began cleaning and staging the berries. Fawkes hopped over and had a few berries himself. On a whim, Harry pulled a handful of peppers from the storage chest and cleaned them while Fawkes gazed intently. Once clean, he set a small plate of habanero peppers down in front of the phoenix.

Fawkes devoured them happily. He was clearly a bird of prey when it came to hot peppers.

Kreacher was nearly done with the batter when the wards flexed and there was a knock on the door. It seemed a bit early for visitors. He focused a moment and identified two older women. One in sturdy clothes and rather plump, the other rapier thin, straight and tall, with a stylish high peaked hat.

McGonagall and Pomona.

Curious. "I'll get the door, Kreacher. You keep mixing the batter." Fawkes was now with Teddy and 'Huffy' was in a seat of his own. "I'll be right back, Teddy."

Harry walked up the stairs to the front door. It was unusual to be visited by two professors that did not include Bill or Neville. Fortunately he was showered and dressed. Hopefully neither would judge him for his casual attire. If they did, he'd send them on their way.

Opening the door, he said, "Professors. A bit early, but would you like to come inside?" There was tension here. He could see it in their shoulders and their forced smiles, hopefully the trip was still on.

McGonagall's eye brows seemed to pull together and she made no move to enter, but Pomona stepped forward with a sincere smile. The tension was still there, but so was the warmth.

Pomona said, "That would be lovely, Harry." He stepped to the side as she entered the home.

Minerva hesitated a moment, then followed behind her friend. She looked around briefly, apparently remembering the home from her infrequent visits in the past. The portrait of Walburga Black was glaring at the two, but remained silent.

McGonagall said, "Your home is quite lovely." She took a deep breath and was about to speak when Teddy came running up to Pomona. He leapt into her arms with a squeal, Huffy was proudly in his arms.

Harry knew this wasn't going to be a short visit. "Thank you. Why don't you two join us for breakfast?" He saw McGonagall's hesitation, then he added, "It is the most important meal of the day, you know."

Teddy said, "Blueberry slapjacks!"

Pomona didn't miss a beat. "I'd love some, thank you Harry." She sat Teddy down. "Lead the way Teddy!"

The group proceeded downstairs where Kreacher was almost down with the batter. Harry poured them all a cup of tea and offered lemon wedges. Pomona wanted pancakes and bacon while McGonagall only asked for toast and jam.

Soon they were all seated and preparing to eat. Pomona liked pancakes as much as Teddy. The meal was pleasant and Teddy did most of the talking as he described a dream he had about friendly dragons and how everyone was scared of them, but they really just wanted to play Quidditch. It made for light talk at the table, but Harry knew they were here for a reason neither professor were eager to bring up. Soon enough, the plates were empty and their tea was refilled.

Harry asked, "So, why the early visit?"

McGonagall nodded and said, "Perhaps Teddy would be willing to show Pomona his favourite toys?"

Harry took the hint. "Teddy, why don't you show Professor Sprout your room?" Fawkes flew over and sat on Harry's shoulder, eager to hear the pending conversation.

Teddy led Pomona away while babbling about all his toys.

Harry noticed McGonagall was sitting very still. "Professor, what's happened?"

"Please, call me Minerva." She sipped her tea and held his gaze for a moment. "Professor Longbottom… Neville. Neville won't be traveling with you next week. Pomona has volunteered to travel in his stead."

This was completely unexpected. "Can you tell me why?"

Minerva sat back and her tension seemed to break. She looked a great deal older when she slumped. "Neville has other matters to sort through." She cleared her throat. "Personal matters that require his attention."

The two sat in silence for a minute or two before she continued.

"I won't beat around the bush. Neville's over indulgence in alcoholic beverages seems to have gotten worse in recent months and it would be inappropriate for him to chaperone students given his… proclivities."

"Chaperone?" This was unexpected. Who else was going?

"Yes, Mr. Potter. Harry. A school trip requires students." She took another sip of tea. There was tension etched in her face. "After meeting with you and William, Neville came back to the castle sloshed. Inebriated. Intoxicated to the point that William had to help him to his quarters."

"Has it affected his performance? In the classroom?"

Minerva gave her head a slight shake. "No. Not yet. No matter how inebriated he is, he manages to get up at 6AM and work in the greenhouses." She caught his attention and held it. "Harry, I've been through three wizarding wars and I've seen more than my fair share of 'spell-shock' and the pain it brings. Neville needs to deal with his personal demons before I can trust him to travel about with students."

"Why not, just pull out?"

"I considered it, but Neville insisted." She reached out and placed her hand on his. Harry could tell she was half expecting him to reject her gesture. "You need this trip to help the Greengrass family."

Harry placed his hand over hers. "Thank you." Given their history, this was a significant level of contact. "How many students are coming?" Had Neville mentioned anything about students? No… not that he remembered.

"Only Herbology NEWT students of age. Currently there are four and a fifth student is likely." She squeezed his hand slightly and withdrew her own. "Pomona will be more than able to manage five students."

"Right." It's not like he's charging into battle. "I mainly plan to track a few of the Incan roads and see where that takes me. Are these students in reasonably good condition?" Hopefully they could go on long hikes.

"That shouldn't be a problem. Pomona will be meeting up with Castelobruxo students and they'll be spending two weeks in the rain forest of Brazil. After a reasonable period of time, you can split off and pursue your own agenda in the mountains."

"Right." Splitting off made sense. "You know, the students refer to their school as Castelo dos Bruxos. Near as I can tell, some bureaucrat in the ICW came up with 'Castelobruxo'. I guess it was either a typo or just laziness, but it stuck." Hopefully she would take the hint.

Minerva chuckled. "Leave it to bureaucrats. Very well. Castelo dos Bruxos it is." She took an envelope out of her bag and set it on the table. "Here is your revised itinerary and school paperwork. You are now officially a member of the Hogwarts staff. The Hogwarts group will be going through the Brazilian Ministry. Please make sure you and your traveling companion have your paperwork together."

"Right." Harry silently gazed at the envelope. No enchantments. "I'd planned to go in through Columbia, then to Peru. This should work, but I'll attract more attention. My itinerary is now officially shot."

"There's something to be said for going through the regular routes, Harry. Traveling into Peru from Columbia could be misconstrued as not wanting to be seen." Her lips seemed to pull up at the corners. She was making a joke. Obviously he didn't want to be seen. Bill always said she had a dry wit.

"Right. Hopefully the press won't know I'm coming."

"The official documentation is for three professors and a guest. The guest being your Miss Aina Dupree." She hesitated a moment, "Are you sure you can trust this woman?"

First Bill and now Minerva. "I'm more than capable of looking after myself."

Minerva pursed her lips. She did that when she was irritated. "I'm sure you are, but I have students to consider."

"Right. Of course." He'd ask the same if their positions were reversed. "I'm completely sure she is trustworthy. She helped me in France and we're actually related."

"I see." That seemed to satisfy her. She then stood up and straightened her already straight robes. "We'll see you next Saturday at the Intercontinental Portkey office."

Harry stood up beside her. "Thank you for coming by and telling me in person. About Neville." He thought a moment and added, "I hope he gets the help he needs. Let me know if I can help."

Minerva gave a warm smile. "Friendship will go a long way. Write to him and offer your support." It seemed unusual to see her so unguarded. Three wars… That explains a lot about Minerva McGonagall.

Harry said, "Thank you." He genuinely meant it.

Harry led her up the stairs and to the front door. Pomona joined them with Teddy in her arms. The two were thick as thieves. The woman radiated warmth and kindness. Harry wondered how different his school years may have been in Hufflepuff. Then again, they may have been even worse. Susan, Hannah, and Ernie weren't exactly the most welcoming. The gossip trio…

Before the two professors departed, Harry asked, "Do either of you remember three students from the 1970's named… let's see… Silas, Nigel and… Nathan?" He noted that both teachers seemed to tense up. "I think their last names were Burke, Lestrange, and Rosier. Nigel was Rosier, but I'm not sure about the other two. Just that they were Burke and Lestrange." That was awkward.

Minerva gave a curt nod. "Yes, three Slytherin students." She seemed suddenly guarded. Her eyes suspicious. "Why are you asking about them?

"They tie in to something I'm investigating. Do you know what happened to them?"

Minerva took a deep breath, then said, "The last anyone at Hogwarts saw them was a Hogsmeade weekend. Apparently, they decided to skip their NEWTs and join You–Know-Who. They left without packing and never returned." Pomona was very quiet.

Harry asked, "Did that seem odd to you?"

Minerva tilted her head and cut her eyes. "One does not look a gift horse in the mouth." After a dramatic pause, she continued. "I was relieved to be rid of them. The Rosier boy wasn't so bad, but the other two were rotten to the core. Lestrange and Burke were never seen again." She seemed to gaze off in thought for a moment. "I imagine they perished in a raid or didn't survive their initiation. Good riddance."

Harry asked, "What about Nigel?"

"Nigel Rosier did not fare well in You-Know-Who's service." She smiled, but it lacked any warmth. "His parents had to ransom him back."

Harry gave her a double take. "He's still alive?"

"I presume so. He was shipped off to France and never returned. You should ask Miss Greengrass' brother. His fiancé is a French Rosier and would likely know what became of him." She adjusted her robes and shook her head. "To be quite frank, I couldn't care less."

"I see. Did you know if my mother worked in Hogsmeade? In Madam McKinnon's shop?"

Minerva warmed slightly. "Yes – in her fifth, sixth and seventh years. It required a waiver for weekend work and Madam McKinnon was assisting her in her OWLs and her NEWTs studies. Albus was most accommodating, despite the danger. Those were troubled times." She gave Harry a curious look. "Does this have to do with your 'investigations' as well?"

Harry nodded. "Maybe. I think a lot was happening in Hogsmeade during those years. Can you tell me if anyone ever lived over Madam McKinnon's shop?"

Minerva seemed unusually quiet and her voice was almost a whisper. "Your mother and Marlene McKinnon once planned to move in there, but it never came to be. Marlene was killed shortly after graduating and your mother was studying in France with the Flamels." She stared far off and chuckled, then she said, "It would have been tight with only one bathroom, but those two were thick as thieves. I miss them both very much."

Fawkes trilled a short and consoling song.

Harry said. "Madam McKinnon left me the property. I like it too. A lot. I may even open up the shop again. Maybe." After I finish my year at Hogwarts. "I was thinking about moving into her home on Tearmann Way."

Pomona spoke for the first time in this discussion. "Tearmann Way is a lovely area. You'll be very happy there. I think you will be most welcome in Hogsmeade."

"Thank you." Harry had a good feeling about the properties. "I think I might like it there, too."

Minerva softly added, "It's a good place to raise a family." She tightened up her scarf and smiled. "Well, we must be off. Come along Pomona, you can't bring Edward with you."

And they were off.

—CS—

One week later

Saturday, October 13, 2001

A week later, Harry and Daphne were sitting in the kitchen of Grimmauld Place enjoying a calm breakfast. She and Andromeda returned five days before and Harry was now about to leave for South America. Teddy was with Andromeda and 'the Girls' were sleeping in. Over the next two weeks, Andromeda would move in and take over the management of Grimmauld Place.

Daphne sipped her tea and said, "What's on your mind?"

Harry shrugged, "I don't know. It just seems odd that this was the last time Grimmauld Place would be just the two of us."

Daphne gave him a soft smile. "I'll miss the private time, but it doesn't really have to end. I'll go through the properties in Hogsmeade to see if there's a good fit. And you always have the larger guest suite here."

"Right." Harry sipped his tea then added, "Madam McKinnon's house is very nice. The apartment over the old shop is nice too."

"The apartment is fine, but you're a bit beyond 'basic' living."

"Yeah. I love the storage area as a gymnasium. But, I still have to teach at Hogwarts next year. Maybe I should just leave it as is."

Daphne nodded. "Maybe. But that's a year away. After you get back, you can review all of your options. In the meantime, I'll scout out the properties and see how much work is needed to make them feel like home."

Harry knew she was helping him out. Scrutinizing house plans and living conditions was not something he enjoyed. Setting up Floo access, updating and decorating older houses, checking roofing and plumbing… Nope. He'd be scouting South America for information on the Greengrass curse while she took care of the housing, social calendars, and general responsibilities he loathed.

Daphne caught his eye and asked, "You are so looking forward to traipsing about in the mountains of Peru, aren't you?" She had an amused smirk on her face.

Harry knew he was busted. "Oh, yeah. I love being in Britain, but sometimes I just want to go exploring. Break out of the monotony of everyday life." He gave her a wry grin. "You know, a little danger and adventure to spice things up."

Daphne chuckled. "I'll take the adventure of Hogsmeade antiquing over the jungles and mountains of South America any day of the week."

"You'd be up for it if you could stay at the Hotel Del Salto."

"Absolutely, Mr. Potter!" She gave him a wink and said in a low and breathy voice, "Just think of what mischief we could get up to under the Tequendama Falls."

Harry pursed his lips. "If I didn't have to leave in ten minutes…"

Daphne shrugged. "You'll just have to make it up to me when you get back."

Harry shook his head and laughed. "Count on it."

Daphne settled back in her chair. "So, all packed and ready?"

"Yeah, but I can't bring my weapons trunk. Which is absolutely insane when you consider that my wands are so much more dangerous than my guns and hand weapons."

Daphne's eyebrows drew together. "Why the restriction?"

Harry held back a smile and said, "Apparently, they're inappropriate for schoolwork."

Daphne laughed out loud. "That's a fact!"

"Well, I can take the Kurkri knife… It's perfect for the jungles. You know, cutting through the underbrush. It should be fine, it's only a scouting trip." He didn't share how many other 'scouting trips' became deadly. "There'll be Hogwarts and Castelo dos Bruxos students with us the first week. Mostly Herbology NEWT students. About a dozen people in all."

"You and a group of Herbologists. Sounds like a party waiting to happen."

Harry chuckled. "Minerva said there'd also be a few others. We're going straight to the Brazilian Ministry instead of Columbia. I'm stuck with the students for at least a week to make it all legal. So, a week in the rain forests, then I'll head to the mountains and scout out the Inca road system. My itinerary is officially lining the rubbish bin."

Daphne seemed to sober up bit. "I hope you know how much I appreciate this, Harry. All the Greengrasses in fact. I can't even begin to say how much this means."

"I know." He debated telling her that it may not work out.

"Have you had any more dreams?"

Harry groaned and ran his hand through his hair. "Only the ones about the metamorph killer. I'll track down that Nigel fellow when I get back." Initial efforts had come up short, but most Wizards valued their privacy. And he hadn't had the time to really search.

Daphne took another sip of tea. "Hopefully Aimee can track him down."

Harry gave a small one shoulder shrug. "We'll see. If not, I can find him when I get back. That's one mystery I'm not sure I want to solve. It's so personal." He took a deep breath and said, "Where dreams are concerned, proximity matters. Once I'm near Cuzco I should be able to refocus on the curse. After I know more about it, I can begin looking for a way to break it."

"That would be amazing." She seemed to struggle a bit before saying, "Do you trust Aina?"

Harry groaned louder than intended and looked at the ceiling. "Yes. I trust her and to be honest, it's nice to travel with someone as powerful as me. I won't have to worry so much if things get… sticky."

Daphne was looking down at her cup. He really shouldn't have dismissed her concerns like that.

Harry said, "I'm sorry Daphne, I overreacted. It's just that no one seems to trust her."

"You have to admit, she sort of came out of nowhere."

"Yeah, I suppose I'd be concerned too if I didn't know her so well." After a brief moment, he added, "Trust me. I know she's someone I can count on." He and Teddy spent a day with her last week and had a blast.

Daphne smiled, but her eyes were still apprehensive.

Harry finished his tea. "Alright, I'll finish up the packing." He gave her a brief kiss. "Everything will be fine, Daphne. Wizards honor."

—CS—

London

International Portkey Departure site

Andromeda and Teddy came to see him off. It was all hugs and kisses for a good five minutes. The girls would stay in a crate until they arrived. It was better than having Harry fall on them on arrival. Fawkes was hovering about and Aina was patiently waiting.

Aina looked completely relaxed in her outdoors clothes. She dressed like this was just another day at the office. If 'the office' was a hiking and camping trip into Merlin knows where. Hat, khaki clothes, boots… she looked ready for anything. Harry was dressed similarly. Nothing fancy, just sturdy basic clothes. Good footwear and he'd packed an outdoors hat.

Pomona and Minerva showed up with four students. Three were wearing black and yellow - Hufflepuff colors. They seemed to be avoiding the fourth student - a dark haired young man wearing silver and green. Clearly a Slytherin. Harry knew very well how Hufflepuff treated outsiders. As he watched, Aina approached Pomona and Minerva and appeared to be introducing herself.

He began going over to make introductions when he heard his name called out.

"Harry!" A familiar voice said.

He looked over and saw Draco and Astoria. Astoria was dressed normally, but Draco was in some kind of linen outfit that was a cross between a leisure suit and a set of robes. Fancy black boots and a pith hat finished the ensemble. With horror, Harry realized Draco was pulling a trunk. A real fancy one.

Harry shook off his shock and said, "Astoria. Draco." Astoria gave him a kiss on the cheek and Draco shook his hand. He was aware of Daphne's presence beside him.

Draco was smirking. "Not planning to leave without me I hope." It wasn't a questions.

Harry ran his hand through his hair. "Well, yeah. Why am I just now hearing about this?" It was clear what 'this' was referring to.

Draco scoffed. "You'd have said no if I'd asked."

Harry guffawed. "Well, yeah. No offense Draco, but I don't know your capabilities in the field well enough." He looked Draco up and down. "You look like you're going to some kind of a party… You do know we're roughing it, right?"

"My clothes have comfort charms laced in." Draco looked Harry over the same way Harry had him. "One doesn't have to look like a vagabond to dress appropriately."

Harry shrugged and smiled. "Well, it doesn't really matter. You weren't listed on the educational visa. I'm sorry Draco, but you're going to have to sit this one out."

Draco smirked. "I'm a certified healer, looking out for a group from Hogwarts. I don't need an educational visa when I have a medical visa." Draco glanced briefly at Astoria. "If it was Andromeda or Teddy, you'd want to go too. Right?"

Harry couldn't argue with that. "I guess we can make this work." He forced a smile and gave Astoria a slight nod. Daphne gave his hand a slight squeeze. This going to be a real shit show. Why in the hell does Draco think he needs a pith hat?

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Fawkes staring at him. Somehow, he knew the bird was enjoying the drama immensely. Despite himself, he laughed. Fawkes was such a busy body bird.

The next twenty minutes were spent with introductions and more good-bye hugs and kisses. Everyone's trunks were triple inspected and visas were scrutinized. Travel had changed so much since September eleventh. Harry decided to find a good weapons store when he arrived. He hated feeling under prepared.

At last it was time to leave. Harry was among the last to depart. The world spun and twisted and turned as he felt himself propelled off and away. When he finally landed, he toppled to the ground in a heap. He relaxed as his stomach settled and stared up at the grey stone ceiling of the Brazilian Ministry of Magic. A petite young lady with wispy blonde hair approached and stood over him. She had protuberant silvery eyes and her wand was set behind her ear.

She smiled at him. "Hello, Harry."

Harry smiled back. "Hello Luna." He was grinning ear to ear.

Luna was here.

Maybe this wouldn't be so bad after all.

—Finite—

I hope you enjoyed this chapter. I have been wanting to include Luna for some time now and this just fit.

Next up, Ill be splitting time between South America and Great Britain.