Dobby's Deceit

by La Morraine

What if Dobby bound himself to Harry without Harry knowing about it? How would that influence the story? [Harry/Hermione]

12. Chapter 12

I'm back again with a new chapter, and I'd like to apologize in advance if there are a lot of mistakes in it. I have caught another cold and my radar isn't working properly.

Now, the reason for the long pause is that I took part in a challenge, the Every Fandom Reverse Bang 2019, to be exact. My story for that one got way, way longer than anticipated, and I actually wrote until the last day and corrected a couple of weeks afterwards. If you're interested in a NCIS/Stargate Atlantis/Sentinel fusion wherein Tony DiNozzo awakens as a guide and finds his destiny, be my guest. The title is "Something Beautiful On The Horizon". If you're not, updates for "Dobby's Deceit" should come more regularly from now on.

That being said, THANK YOU for your numerous encouraging reviews! I'm not very good at answering them, I know, but I read every single one, and hearing from you makes me happy.

But now enough with the talk, have fun reading. :)

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Dobby's Deceit

Part 12

Harry had just enough time to place his journals and writing utensils onto the desk when a small, middle-aged looking house elf in a white towel toga appeared in front of him.

"Hello, Harry Potter," it squeaked.

"Er, hello." Harry stared into the elf's hazel eyes. It looked distinctly female with astoundingly long and dark lashes that he hadn't seen on any other elf, not Tilly and not even Betty, who was very cute even to his human eyes. "Uhm, are you Romy, the head elf?"

"I be Romy," she confirmed, swaying even closer until her nose almost touched Harry's. "Jules be telling me you be head of Slytherin family."

"By conquest," Harry provided, when she paused expectantly. "Er, the snake guardian to Slytherin's library down in the Chamber of Secrets verified already, if that helps."

Romy tilted her head. Then she stepped back and held out her hand. "Please let Romy feel your magic, child. If you be Slytherin, Romy be able to feel connection to Hoggywarty."

Harry carefully put three of his fingers into the elf's small hand and tried not to squirm when her magic swept over and through him like a x-ray searchlight. "Wow, that's intense."

"Romy be able to see shenanigans," she informed him. Only a moment later, her magic receeded and she bounced once. "You indeed be Master Slytherin. What a happy day! And Master Slytherin be taking poor Jules as his elf!"

"I hope that was okay," Harry said, a little flustered. "It seemed important to him."

"Jules be young, only fifty-six," Romy said, blinking slowly. "Romy hopes he not be tricking Master Slytherin into accepting bond."

Harry startled and then laughed a little. "I only got tricked the first time, by Dobby, and maybe a little with Betty. I've since read your book, you know."

Romy tutted. "And yet Master Slytherin not be doing it right. Bond to Jules be lax. It be concerning."

"We're friends," Harry explained. "I don't need or want servants. I like my house elves just as they are, and I want them to be happy. Whatever they like to do for me is a gift."

Again, Romy came close, and this time her nose did touch Harry's. "It be very unusual. Your elves be keeping secrets?"

"They promised they would," Harry assured her. "And they also promised not to serve the Dark One - Tom Riddle, he's Voldemort. Jules told me to give that order because he doesn't like Voldemort."

Romy's ears twitched in alarm. "Jules be very smart. Master Slytherin be needing to give that order to Hoggywarty elves, also. Master Slytherin's connection to Hoggywarty be enough for the Dark One to exercise familial rights."

"Of course, I'll do that," Harry said, wondering if Dumbledore had given that order before Harry had emerged as a founder's heir. "Can we do it right now?"

Romy nodded decisively. After a snap of her thin fingers, close to a hundred house elves appeared in the suddenly expanded Come And Go Room and stared at her expectantly. Jules was right at the front and looking a little smug.

"This be new and rightful Master Slytherin," Romy said. "He be head of family by conquest."

Quiet mutters sounded, and looks were exchanged among the elves.

Romy nodded. "Master Slytherin be having orders for us now."

Harry flushed a little under the intense scrutiny of the house elves. "Er, thank you, Romy. First of all, thank you all for coming to see me. I'm sure you've got lots of stuff to do, so I appreciate it." He swallowed nervously. "Uhm, so, I really only have one pressing thing to discuss, and that's the other member of the Slytherin family. His name is Tom Riddle, some of you probably know him from his time at Hogwarts."

"He be the Dark One," Romy said dramatically, and the other elves twitched and looked around guiltily.

Harry's heart fell a little at that, as it told him enough about Voldemort's use of the poor things' magical connection to him. "Yes, and since Romy told me that Voldemort could call for you and give you orders because of me being the Heir of Slytherin, I hereby ask you to neither answer his calls, nor help him in any way, shape or form. He's evil and doesn't deserve your attention and care."

A hundred pairs of ears were quivering, and just as many pairs of large, luminous eyes were staring at him. "Your will be done, Master Slytherin," the whole group finally squeaked.

Something shifted in Harry in that moment. It wasn't quite the same as accepting the friendship of an elf, but it felt close enough.

"It be allegiance," Romy squeaked and patted his shoulder comfortingly. "Hoggywarty heirs come first, always."

"Thank you," Harry said gratefully. "I appreciate it."

"It only be your due, Master Slytherin. Be there anything else?"

Harry blushed again and ducked his head. "As a matter of fact ... er, would it be possible to call me like you would any other student? I don't want anybody to know that I'm the heir of Slytherin. People would only harass me for it."

Romy wrung her hands as she said, "It be disrespectful, Master Slytherin. We elves not be liking not calling things by their name."

"I understand," Harry said, "but please. You have no idea what trouble I'd be in if Dumbledore noticed. You don't have to tell him if he asks, do you?"

"No, no," Romy squeaked. Her light eyes filled with tears. "But we not be wanting to disrespect Master Slytherin to his face. That not be how we be raised." Several of her friends looked also distraught at the mere idea of being so informal.

"Then don't use my name to my face," Harry insisted. "To me, that's not important anyway. That you'll keep my secrets, and allow Dobby and Betty into Hogwarts, that counts. You have no idea how much."

"I will teach you," Jules squeaked into the stricken silence. "It is not very hard to call Master Slytherin 'Harry Potter sir'."

"I'd really prefer it," Harry said. "You'd help me a lot that way."

The elves all sniffled, and, to Harry's relief, one after the other swore that they'd keep this particular secret whenever someone else was around.

"Don't forget the portraits," Harry said with a wry smile. "They're incredibly nosy."

"They be busybodies," Romy muttered. "They be reporting to the headmaster." She eyed Harry shrewdly. "It could be fun to keep secrets from old whiskers wizard."

In a strange little parade, the house elves then lined up to touch Harry for a moment before popping away.

"You be good elf for Master Slytherin," Romy said and wagged her little finger in front of Jules' face. "You not be shaming your poor mother."

"I'll be very good," Jules said with a hint of exasperation and something close to an eyeroll.

Harry bit his lip to keep from laughing. "You're family?"

"He be Romy's youngest son," Romy said. "He not be very strong, but he be popping smart. Romy be glad that Jules found a good friend."

"I told you that Harry Potter sir is a good wizard," Jules squeaked. He turned to Harry. "May I return to Potter Cottage, please? Steward Sharptooth sent another crate of books."

"Oh? What are they about?" Harry asked curiously.

"Mostly offensive magic to make enemies really, really unhappy should they even think about attacking Harry Potter sir," Jules replied dutifully, although his eyes gleamed meanly. "Jules will display them prominently for easy access."

After he'd popped away, Romy put her hands on her hips. "Romy not be apologizing for Jules' meany streak. His father be security elf for gnomes in Switherland."

"I appreciate that he's invested in my survival," Harry told her honestly. "It's nice."

Romy snapped her fingers and a tea tray appeared on the desk. "Master Slytherin's survival be important to Hoggywarty elves too. Master Slytherin only need to call if elves can help."

"Thank you, Romy, I will."

Pleased, the little elf grinned and popped away.

Since a good quarter of an hour had already passed, Harry hurried to open Sirius' journal. The entry was long and even a bit rambling, but no less impactful for that.

September 17th, 1993

Harry,

I just wanted to let you know that Sharptooth has sent a large crate of DADA books to the cottage. Your little bookworm elf was salivating over them, enough to make Ninja curious. They were putting their heads together last I checked. I almost pity the fool who tries to break into your properties. Maybe he'll have a few ideas for my residence in Rome, if you don't mind me borrowing him for a bit. Ninja is good for smiting, but he's a bit impatient and doesn't want to wait for traps to spring, although he certainly likes placing them well enough. He has the most hilarious cackle!

Anyway, the preparations for my move to Italy are very nearly complete. I'll be crossing borders on the 21th, the autumn equinox, because Magic will be very balanced between our races on that day and ease my entrance to the goblin realm. Lawrence has already set up his office in Rome and all the writs and petitions he needs to file are ready. It seems so sudden, but I'm glad that things are beginning to happen now. I could never sit still for long anyway, even if I'll be in protective custody at the Gringotts branch in Italy until the ICW has acknowledged my status as unlawfully imprisoned petitioner. The food alone will be worth it!

On a related note, I herewith report that I've found yet another of Riddle's disgusting shades. It was hidden in my cousin Bellatrix' Gringotts vault, which really wasn't a surprise in hindsight. She worships that Dark Bastard to an unhealthy degree and is still serving time in Azkaban for it. In fact, it was her and her husband who tortured your friend Neville's parents to insanity. (That reminds me that my family owes the Longbottoms a huge debt - I'll work on it, I promise, and make sure that Neville and his parents get all the help I can provide.) Gringotts will destroy it as soon as the ritual can be done, which will be sometime in October.

Now, before you begin to worry, no, not just any lord of a family can snoop through the vaults of its married members, that would be awful, but in this case my grandfather could. Bellatrix' marriage contract actually stipulated that the Lord Black is to be granted full access to her vaults, ostensibly to be able to care for her welfare, since she's always been a bit crazy and couldn't be trusted to take care of herself. The real reason was, of course, to make sure that the Lestranges wouldn't burn the money on useless muggle baiting, which would've weakened the Black's standing in society considerably.

My first impulse was to cast Bellatrix out of the family for harbouring a part of the Dark Fucker, same as her sister Narcissa, who married Lucius Malfoy. But after sleeping on it and talking it over with Chief Ragnok, our lawyers, and our account managers I've decided to leave things as they are for the moment. Having Bellatrix and Narcissa in the family, no matter how much it galls me, gives me power over them, and will give their husbands pause. You see, the old Lord Black was kind enough to put stringent stipulations on both their dowries, and dear Lucius would so hate to lose that money because he made me angry.

But enough of my family's less than glorious dealings. I'm sure you're eager to know how your four little friends are doing. The three hatched snakelings were crawling all over the house yesterday, and they all spent last night down at the ward stone. The golden girl also chased a garden gnome over the terrace this morning, which was hilarious, but her siblings prefer to observe your elves and yours truly and to ask pointed questions. In fact, I have Sweetie stuck to my chest right now, and she's watching what I write to you. Brady is sort of smitten with Goldie and I swear he nearly cried when she asked him to feed her. The others aren't very hungry yet; apparently you stuffed them to their venomous little fangs before they came here.

How are things going at Hogwarts? What's the situation with the Weasley boy? Are there new developments? Brady couldn't tell me much, unfortunately, due to his privacy vows.

Take care, I love you.

-Sirius

Harry needed a second read-through to fully grasp what his godfather was telling him. Another part of Voldemort found, the second one also hidden by Sirius' own family! It was impossible to imagine how Sirius was dealing with all of this, and so Harry was doubly glad for Healer Williams' presence in the cottage, and the goblins' willingness to banish those abominations as quickly as they could.

That's four of them already, Harry thought with a shiver and a reflexive gulp against the bile rising up his throat. Could there be even more? If not, there's still that Voldemort ghost thing from first year, and no one knows where it went, or how to defeat it.

To distract himself from these depressing thoughts, Harry put his pen to paper and wrote:

Sirius,

Wow, that's a long letter. Thanks for letting me know what's going on with Voldemort - and your family, I guess. Have you told Ninja not to listen to your cousins, yet? You'll laugh, but I just had a meeting with the Hogwarts elves and sort of gained their allegiance, because I'm the Lord Slytherin now. I had to tell them not to help Riddle, because the family bond would've been strong enough for him to call on them.

Harry paused, frowning.

I think he used them before he attacked my parents; I'll have to find out what for. Do you think Voldemort couldn't use them last year because he was only possessing someone, and wasn't really there? If so, I'm glad, because house elves are really badass and I don't ever want to have one for an enemy. Dobby trying to be helpful was nearly fatal already!

The situation with Ron is ... not good. I talked to Professor McGonagall about it, that Ron's been spelled, I mean, and she gave me permission to end the spells somehow. I mean, Ron's kind of okay to be around right now, but everytime he says something, I can see the spells moving around him and forcing him to behave in a certain way, and it's horrible. I had nightmares about it last night and got held back after Transfiguration because I was useless. Professor McGonagall didn't take any points, fortunately. I guess what I want to know is whether I can really throw a Finite at Ron and see what happens, or if it's a bad idea. Professor McGonagall pointed out that the spells could be approved by Ron's parents, but she doesn't think that's actually true because the spells apparently make Ron volatile in class, and that his parents would be stupid for doing it.

The snakelings were a big help when I was following Ron around on Wednesday. Blue says he can smell and see magic, which is really cool. I only see the magic on Ron because my revealing spell is still active ... but then again it must be really distracting if you can't turn it off, so maybe it's not something I'd want to have for an ability. Just imagine seeing all the magic on everyone, all the time. I'd go blind!

Anyway, I miss you, and Brady, and the snakes. Greet them all from me!

Love,

Harry

Done with the personal part of his correspondence, Harry then turned to the letter Sharptooth had sent. There was a journal enclosed, with the Gringotts logo embossed on the red leather cover.

September 16th, 1993

Heir Potter,

As per your instructions, the contract offers for positions in your guest house in France have been sent, and all four were accepted within twenty-four hours without negotiations. Work begins on October 1st, and will mainly consist of getting acquainted with the property and the daily routines before we place our ad in the Wizarding International Times. I have calculated the cost of running the house, and added the standard percentage for hotel businesses to generate a profit. Please have a look at the enclosed catalogues to compare services and prices, and let me know whether you wish to implement any changes. Ideas, as ever, are welcome, so don't hesitate to voice them.

Additionally, Gringotts was able to locate a property close to the guest house, just a large house with five bedrooms and two bathrooms, which I could acquire on your behalf to house personnel and house elves who don't have their own accommodations upon beginning their work. It's not relevant right now, as all staff are French citizens, but in the future it could be a temporary home for qualified staff from other countries, or for part-time personnel like landscapers or builders, or even apprentices. Please read the enclosed proposal carefully and sign off if you agree with it. Should the house prove to be unnecessary after all, it won't be a problem at all to sell it at a profit later.

Lord Black will have told you that he found another of the Dark Lord's shades in a vault belonging to one of his family. It is Gringotts' desire to see these abominations destroyed as soon as can be arranged. Unfortunately, the ritual dedicated to cleanse a possessed item found in Lord Black's home was just yesterday, and the new find was too fresh to alter the arithmantic calculations of the ritual in time to have them both destroyed at the same time. The next new moon is on October 15th, and the shade will pass to the afterlife then. On that, you have Gringotts' word.

That being said, this circumstance has caused my Chief Ragnok to reconsider Gringotts' stance in the conflict. Where previously Gringotts has only offered its help in destroying these abominations, it is now willing to reach out and actively look for them. Including the one hidden in your scar, four have been found. It stands to reason that there will be more - at least three, as our magical theorists have told me, because seven is a magically significant number. Any and all ideas or hints are welcome, so please inform me immediately if you can think of something. The destruction of the Dark Lord will be a huge feather in Gringotts' cap, and one we'll be quite eager to lord over the wizards for centuries to come.

And last but not least, your Dobby asked me to relay to you that he has found six rescue hens he would like to adopt and settle in the garden of the cottage. They'd come into your possession for the symbolic price of one galleon apiece, to support the shelter they come from. He does not expect to get many eggs, but should there be a surplus, he wants to know what to do with them, same as with the vegetables and fruit the garden will yield next year. If you have a minute, it would please him if you could think about it.

May your attention be always sharp and the punishment of your enemies swift, youngling.

Sharptooth

Steward to the Potter Family

Senior Account Manager

P.S.: The enclosed journal is the promised gift from Lord Black to make our correspondence easier. Use it as often as you need to. As already explained, any official business will still be sent via official letter for our records.

Harry blew out a long breath and leaned back in his chair. There was a lot going on and his head was swimming a little. After a few minutes of contemplation, he pulled out a fresh piece of paper and began to write.

September 17th, 1993

Steward Sharptooth,

Thank you for your update. I actually do have an idea how to help Gringotts work against Voldemort. I'd be good if you could assume the position of account manager for Slytherin, and get me a detailed overview of any and all possessions the family still has. If there are properties, I want them searched thoroughly, and then, if possible, sold. The same goes for shady artifacts and whatnot. I don't think I'd ever use them, or visit any houses or properties, even after Voldemort is no longer a member of the family. Let's just start fresh, and who knows, we might just get lucky.

Dobby has my yes for the chickens. If there are any surplus eggs and produce from the cottage garden, he can donate everything to a magical orphanage, if there even is such a thing in Great Britain. If there isn't, find me the magical school with the most charity cases and offer it to them. I'd like to keep it quiet, though, if they even accept, so if there could be vows involved, that'd be great.

You can also buy the house in France and get it secured and refurbished as necessary. If it's in good condition, I'd like to keep the changes minimal, because there's no sense in wasting perfectly good furniture and stuff. I think it'd be good for the magicals to learn how the mundanes live, in any case.

That should be all for now. Thanks for the journal!

May your coffers always overflow and the enemies of your clan cower in fear.

Harry James Potter

Heir of the House of Potter
Heir of the House of Black

Heir of the House of Slytherin

Harry scowled. Those were a lot of titles he was expected to parade around in official correspondence, at least in correspondence with Gringotts. He hoped that nothing more would need to be added, or he'd have to ask Hermione where he could buy stationary with this stuff already printed on it.

"Dobby," he called quietly and barely flinched when the elf appeared on the desk and right in front of him. "Hey, how are you?"

"Dobby be just fine," Dobby said with a happy bob. "Dobby be preparing the last of the vegetable patches for the guest house. Weather be much warmer in France than it be here. Dobby be working on enriching soil with ground volcanic stone from Madeira. Dobby traded with elf on island for it. Elf wanted clipping of feral moly, Dobby be hoping that taking it from Potter's Field be alright."

"Will the volcanic earth make the garden so much better?" Harry asked.

"Very much so, Harry Potter sir," Dobby said earnestly. "Things grow on Madeira all year, and they be rich in minerals and vitamins. Dobby be trading for more, if Harry Potter sir agrees. Soil at Potter Cottage could do with it."

"Then do it, but don't trade illegal things, alright?"

Dobby nodded enthusiastically. "Dobby be very watchful!"

"Great, thanks." Harry smiled at his friend's enthusiasm. "How are you getting along with Jules?"

"He be strong where it be counting," Dobby said immediately. "He be liking books. He be reading! And he be teaching Ninja mean things." He frowned a little. "Jules be liking Betty very much. Dobby not sure he be liking this."

"I hope you won't fight over her ... too much," Harry said, making an effort not to grin.

"Females be choosing," Dobby said. "You be reading book, so you be knowing that we be needing to impress." He heaved a sigh. "Females be having harems. It be nerve-wracking. Dobby be training secretly to get stronger."

Harry had a feeling that he'd be treated to a house elf soap opera eventually and vowed to have popcorn ready when it started. "Well, Betty is really sweet, so I wish you good luck."

Dobby's ears twitched and he made a curious face. "Does Harry Potter sir be having any other jobs for Dobby?"

"Not really. I just wanted to ask about the lamps in the Chamber of Secrets. Did you have a chance to find some yet?"

"Oh yes, Dobby did! Dobby found lamps in a catalogue and Harry Potter sir's dogfather bought them for Miss Mione's birthday. He be promising that this be last contribution, because he not be wanting to steal Harry Potter sir's thunder."

Harry groaned. "He'll tease me about her until I'm grown up, won't he?"

"Dobby be thinking that Harry Potter sir's dogfather be never stopping," Dobby confided. "Healer Brady not be helping."

"Ugh." Harry huffed. "Alright, let Sharptooth have his letter. Will I see you again soon?"

"Very soon," Dobby promised. "Hoggywarty elves be needing more lessons for cooking good food for Harry Potter sir. I be serving dinner tonight."

"I'm looking forward to it," Harry admitted. "Hermione and I just feel so much better with your and Betty's fare."

Dobby puffed up proudly and popped away quietly, leaving Harry with the choice of doing nothing for his last free period, or starting on his homework.

Harry chose the homework, but he really, really wished that his days were longer so he could have at least a small break every now and then.

oOo

That night before dinner, Lavender and Hermione dragged him to the Hogwarts Herald's offices so he could finally give his oath to the newspaper. Professor McGonagall was already waiting to oversee the oath giving of several other students who wanted to work for the newspaper. Hermione told him that most of them were sixth years who wanted to collect a few easy extra credits with research jobs and admin tasks.

Unfortunately, Headmaster Dumbledore was also there and looking at everyone with a slight smile and twinkling eyes.

"Harry, my boy, I need to have a word with you," the old man said, before Harry had even time to really take in the eight large desks and the huge message board at the front of the room, and gestured Harry toward a calm corner of the room.

Harry fought hard not to look Dumbledore directly in the face as he waited for the headmaster to speak. Instead, he focused on Hermione, who was lifting an inquiring eyebrow.

She's standing too close to Zabini, Harry thought grumpily. That guy is like glue!

It was even worse that Zabini seemed just as curious as her, although he hid it a little better.

The silence lasted for almost a minute before Dumbledore sighed quietly and said, "It is to my utmost regret that I must ask you not to participate in this school club. My reason to refuse your chosen electives still applies, and since school clubs do not fall under the board of govenors' purview, this decision is final."

"Is that really the only reason?" Harry asked, temper rising. Belatedly, he tacked on, "Sir."

"What other reason could I possibly have?" Dumbledore asked, still trying to catch Harry's gaze.

"I don't know," Harry answered, voice a little sharp and definitely loud enough to catch Lavender's attention. "You tell me why I can't better my chances to get a job after school."

"What's going on?" Lavender demanded. She left the group of newbies with Professor McGonagall and hurried over. Hermione followed, brows drawn together in a frown.

Harry remained stubbornly silent and felt a vindictive bolt of pleasure when Dumbledore sighed again.

"I have decided not to allow Mr. Potter to participate in your newspaper club this year, Miss Brown," Dumbledore told her. Of course everone's attention was now on him. When Hermione made to speak, Dumbledore added, "He's had a few harrowing experiences these last few years and it is my duty as his magical guardian to guard his wellbeing as if it were my own."

"But he'd just write a few articles," Lavender protested. "That's not dangerous! The worst he could get is a papercut!"

"But it is time-consuming. I'm afraid that I won't be swayed," Dumbledore replied mildly. "Of course, Mr. Potter may always give up his place on the Quidditch team in exchange. I just thought that he'd rather not do that, if he had a choice."

Lavender huffed and Professor McGonagall looked like she would show her claws any minute now.

"You could have at least asked me," Harry said. He tamped down his anger out of habit. "I guess I'll try again next year, Lavender. Sorry."

She lifted her chin defiantly. "I'll just take your name off the Buckbeak article, then. You won't mind if Seamus gets all the credit, right?"

Dumbledore's bushy eyebrows rose. "That's skirting the line, Miss Brown."

"Don't be petty, Albus," Professor McGonagall said, clearly impatient with the power games. "Mr. Potter helped write the article before he knew that you'd forbid him to become a member of the club. You had better be sure that I'll allow Miss Brown to express her displeasure about that in the Herald. Freedom of speech is a valued creed in these offices, after all."

"Also, why can you even forbid Potter from participating, Headmaster Dumbledore?" Zabini asked into the uncomfortable silence. "Rumour has it that Sirius Black is Potter's actual magical guardian. His magically sworn godfather, who somehow hasn't lost his magic after his supposed betrayal. Shouldn't he be the one to make this decision?"

A Ravenclaw sixth year next to him nodded, while Parvati bit her lip nervously.

"Unfortunately that is not possible at this time, because Mr. Black is a wanted felon," Dumbledore murmured. "As long as he's not cleared, Mr. Potter's welfare remains my concern. Any more questions? No? Then please excuse me, duty calls."

He glided from the room, lime green robes trailing after him.

"Merlin, I'd go spare with him as my magical guardian," Zabini declared. He sat at a desk and picked up a quill. "You won't give up Quidditch over this, will you?"

"I don't think so." Harry scowled. "But I'd have liked to decide that for myself."

"I'll have words with the headmaster," Professor McGonagall said. "It seems that his interpersonal skills have gotten a little rusty since he's been a teacher." She looked around. "Now, who of you has a permission slip or letter from their parents? Yes, Mr. Smith ... good. Here is the vow. Repeat after me ..."

Harry watched as one after the other the students swore to uphold the Hogwarts Herald's charter and the international press codex.

"The headmaster could've told you this in private, and a lot sooner," Hermione fumed in a low voice next to him. She held Harry's hand and squeezed it. "What does he think he can accomplish by doing this?"

"Show me who's the boss, maybe," Harry said. He glanced at Hermione. "You know, maybe I should do it, just to spite him."

"Wood would kill you, and McGonagall too." Hermione pursed her lips. "And I think you'd mainly spite yourself in the end. Although you should do it if you really want to join the newspaper club, of course. The others would just have to come to terms with it."

Harry took a minute to think it over. "I guess not." He huffed. "Dumbledore still should've let me decide."

"Professor McGonagall will surely yell at him for it," Hermione said consolingly.

"I don't like him anymore," Harry said. "And I don't understand how I could have, before now."

"Oh, Harry." Hermione put her head on his shoulder. "I wish there was something I could do to help."

Harry wanted to tell her about Sirius, and Gringotts, and everything that had been going on these last few months. He wanted to show her that he trusted her. He did trust her - but he didn't trust most everyone else. Not Dumbledore or Snape, who could both read minds, nor people from the Ministry, who seemed content to believe that Sirius was a criminal and needed to die. He couldn't even trust Professor McGonagall or any of his other teachers, because Dumbledore could manipulate them so easily.

"You already do," he muttered and nuzzled her wild hair. "You're my friend, and you believe me."

"Always," Hermione promised. "Do you want to stay?"

"Nah, I'll just go back to the Tower and get a nap in," Harry decided. "I need a break, anyway."

She lifted her head and looked at him thoughtfully for a moment. "Mmh, yes. You've got dark circles under your eyes."

"We'll plan our time better," Harry said, resolved to make sure that it actually happened. "The year has just started."

"Oh, we will." Hermione smiled. "Alright, shoo. I have to touch up my articles, and I promised Neville to help him choose a topic. He's narrowed it down to five, but now he's stuck."

"Good luck," Harry said and, since no one was looking at them right then, placed a small kiss onto Hermione's lips. "I'll see you at dinner. Dobby is bringing us food tonight."

Harry kept her bright grin in mind as he went back up the many stairs to Gryffindor Tower. Not many students were underway; some had their Patronus Club meeting, others were in the library, and a few brave souls had even dared to venture outside for a bit of flying. In the common room only a handful of students were playing games. The rest was busy with homework or, in the Weasley twins' case, doing an experiment on Neville's unlucky toad, Trevor. Since Neville was sitting close by and didn't seem overly worried, Harry just shrugged and trotted on, up to the boys' dorm.

To his dismay, Ron was there. He obviously hadn't heard Harry come in, which wasn't a big surprise, Harry thought, because he was fully immersed in trying to pry Neville's trunk open with the help of his wand and a butter knife. Around him, magic was churning and twisting, tightening and loosening again. A few strands looked a bit frayed around the edges, as if they'd been roughed up. By what, Harry had no idea, but it didn't seem very farfetched to assume that it might be Ron's abrasive personality. That Ron still seemed to be able to try and break into other people's things was shocking, and Harry felt another sliver of his loyalty to the boy shrivel up and die.

That's bad, bloody hell, but I probably won't get a better chance, Harry thought, letting his family wand slide from its holster. I'll wait for your advice, Sirius, but I need to put out the lights. I'm really hungry and starving won't do me any good.

As quietly as he could, he concentrated on the revealing charm and hissed, "Finite incantatem!"

The spell hit Ron square in the back, and all the lights went out at once.

Ron's back arched a little and he sucked in a huge gulp of air, dropping the knife. "Darn it," he cursed. "'m not getting that one open, either. Bloody Potter, giving everybody ideas."

He made to rise and Harry hastily stumbled back out the door, pretending to just come up the stairs as noisily as he could.

"Oh, hey," Ron muttered, holding one of his hands behind his back. "I, uh, was just leaving."

"Really?" Harry forced a smile. "Nice. I wanted to take a nap before dinner. I'll see you later."

Before Ron could start a conversation, Harry climbed into his bed, toed off his shoes and spelled the hangings shut. The desire to take his journal out and write Sirius was overwhelming, so Harry jotted down a short note and then did what he'd actually come to do: He undressed to his underwear, snuggled in and slept a solid hour.

oOo

Saturday morning was quickly becoming Harry's favourite time of the week. Having Hermione's undivided, unhurried attention was special, and he revelled in it ... even if she forced him to run and jump and twist and turn, and punch and kick invisible foes.

"Your form is pretty good," she praised him at the end of her lesson. "You just need to get over your inhibitions about the yoga. It's good for body and soul, you'll see."

"It just seems so complicated," Harry defended himself. "And I'm not as bendy as you. It hurts sometimes."

She looked contrite. "You have to tell me, Harry. It's not supposed to hurt, and I don't expect you to do more than you can safely manage. I thought I'd said."

"You did," Harry admitted and flushed a little. "I just ... I don't want to waste your time. I want to be fit quickly."

"Oh, Harry, I'm sorry." Hermione sat down next to him and put her arm around his shoulders. "You're doing so well, and we've only been doing this for two weeks. Trust me, I don't expect you to become Superman overnight. It takes time; developing a skill always does."

"It doesn't feel like I have much time," Harry admitted.

"Every little bit helps," she reminded him and pressed her cheek against his warm shoulder. "You're already better today than you've been last week, and next week you'll be better than today. You're working on it, you really can't do more."

Harry accepted her embrace, sweat and all, and leaned his head against hers. "Thank you. I hate when I'm like this."

"I understand where you're coming from," Hermione murmured. "Magic's pushing you a little, right?"

"How do you know?" Harry asked, glancing at her and marvelling yet again how beautiful her brown eyes were.

"Because it's pushing me, too," Hermione confessed. "When I help you, it gets better. I want to help you, but helping you means that I have to tell you to take breaks, too."

"I'm sorry." Harry felt misery well up inside of him. "I didn't want to drag you into any of this."

"Oh, hush," she said, a little peevish. "Voldemort might have picked you as his mortal enemy, but do you really think that he'd spare me, or people like me, should he manage to come back? All I'm doing is bettering my own chances of survival, so it's not like I'm super altruistic, here."

"Altruistic?" Harry questioned, a little overwhelmed.

"It means doing something for unselfish reasons, just because it's the right thing to do," Hermione explained. "I mean, it is the right thing to help you, don't get me wrong, but I also want to survive long enough to show Draco Malfoy and his ilk up so hard that people in Las Vegas take notice of my class act. That's pretty selfish."

"'Mione," Harry laughed, but sobered again quickly. "I'll do everything I can to protect you."

She smiled. "Good. That's actually your job as my boyfriend, if my mum can be believed. But right now I don't need protection. I just need ..." And she leaned closer and placed a lingering kiss on Harry's mouth. "I really like doing that."

"I really like it, too." Harry returned her smile. "You're so pretty. And I like how you smell."

"Eugh, really? I need a shower." Hermione scrunched up her nose, even as her high colour brightened a little further.

"Nah, you're fine." Harry snaked his arm around her waist and held her against his side so she couldn't run for a wash. Relief swamped him when she easily settled back down, apparently trusting his word. "What are you doing today?"

"I'll write my essay for Astronomy and finish your book on house elves. Tonight I might join Lavender and Parvati for their Herald meeting, it depends on whether there are relevant news in the papers. You?"

"I'll catch up on some reading and keep an eye on Ron. He seemed pretty okay at dinner, but who knows."

"That boy is a full-time job," Hermione complained. "I sort of understand why Professor McGonagall can't do it, but honestly, can't we just get him expelled and get it over with?"

Harry was a little shocked about her attitude and didn't hesitate to tell her so.

"I know," Hermione said, a little shame-faced and a lot righteous, "but think about it. Ronald doesn't do well in most social situations; he has absolutely no regard for the opinions and possessions of other people; and he's a lazy student at best."

Harry felt the same shrivelling sensation inside he'd felt the night before, and sagged a little.

"Also, him staying at Hogwarts is so disruptive, especially now that some of us know that he actually needs spells to be somewhat fit for polite company," Hermione continued. "I don't mean it as an insult, because Ron apparently can't help it, but ... do you want to spend the next five years with him hanging about and annoying you? Should any of us be subjected to that? It's stressful, even harmful, if his behaviour continues unchecked. Our grades could suffer, never mind our relationships with others, because Ron honestly is no one's idea of a good friend."

"He could learn, maybe," Harry replied, although he sounded dubious even to his own ears.

"At the expense of your education and peace of mind?" Hermione countered. "Harry, no. I'm all for giving people a second chance, but what Ron's done so far is ... honestly, it's beyond the pale. Dean told me he stole from you! Ron would have never, ever admitted it, and has he even offered to give the money back?"

"No," Harry admitted.

"Right. He's also lazy, and always gets you in trouble. I'm not a saint, either, but he's stupid about things that don't have to be an issue, like your flight with that car last year." Hermione collected herself and went on, a little calmer, "Hogwarts is supposed to be the best magical school in Britain, and attendance costs a ridiculous amount of money. I'm not saying that Ron shouldn't get an education, because he clearly needs one. Just not here. It's not fair to the rest of us who managed to get invited. I feel cheated as it is, I don't need a Ronald Weasley on top of it to make it even worse."

Harry could hardly argue against her points, but it did feel disloyal, and that disconnect between his rational and emotional side annoyed him.

"He was still my first friend," he murmured.

Hermione sighed. "I know. And that makes me so furious - that he would throw away your friendship for a few galleons and some perceived second-hand fame." She glowered at Harry. "There's nothing glorious about being almost killed by Voldemort, or a great ruddy snake. Just so we're clear."

"That last one wasn't really my fault," Harry replied, affronted. "I tried."

"You did." She snuggled closer and huffed angrily. "I honestly can't believe half the things the headmaster is allowing to go on in this castle. It's obscene. The next time he's doing something dumb, I'll write to the Ministry." She scowled. "After I've written an article for either the Herald or the WIT, because why bother with the Prophet. That way they won't get to sweep it under the rug."

Harry pulled her even tighter against himself. "You should watch out. Dumbledore can read minds, and I don't want to know what he would do to you to protect himself."

"He can try," Hermione said tartly. "I already owe him a punch to the throat. But, I read ahead in that book, The Art Of Secrecy, so I know not to look him in the eye. That reminds me ... you wanted to teach me Professor McGonagall's revealing spell."

"Oh! Yes, of course." Harry got up and fetched both their wands from the breakfast table Dobby had already set up. "It's not that hard - I guess it can't be, if Aurors need to use it a lot, and quickly."

He showed Hermione the spell a couple of times and then used it on her. She was mostly clean, although the discovery of an anti-baby charm had him blush hotly. Thankfully, Hermione didn't make a big deal out of his embarrassment and just explained why Madam Pomfrey issued the spell to such young girls.

"It's just common sense, since apparently many wizards and witches fall in love when they're young. There are also spells for boys, but for some reason," her eyebrow lifted sarcastically, "boys are never quite as concerned with birth control, especially the mundane-born."

"That's just stupid," Harry exclaimed. "I don't want to become a dad at thirteen! I mean, uh, not that I would ... I'm definitely not ready for ... oh, stop laughing!"

Hermione giggled. "You're cute when you're flustered." She sobered and took his hand. "It's just something my parents insisted on when they heard it was availabe. Madam Pomfrey will cast it for you, if you want it. There are no side effects; I researched her spell before my parents and I agreed to it."

Pulling a face, Harry muttered, "If your parents had to agree, I'll probably need Dumbledore's permission, but I don't think I want to have that conversation with him."

"Oh, you're right." Hermione took up her wand and twirled it. "Although you could still ask Madam Pomfrey, see if you even need permission. I mean, it's something students are encouraged to do, so I don't see how the headmaster could deny you."

"Can we go back to teaching you the revealing spell?" Harry begged. "I really don't want to talk about babies, or even think about them."

Hermione bit her lip, but she was clearly smiling. "Of course. I'm sorry."

Since breakfast was beckoning and they were getting hungry fast, Harry let Hermione try a handful of times before stopping the lesson. "Food first, we can do more later," he decided. As if on cue, his stomach growled.

"It's harder than I thought," Hermione told him after she'd poured tea for them both and handed Harry the milk jug. "Professor McGonagall really taught you in ten minutes?"

Harry shrugged. "Something like that. We were quite motivated. Scone?"

"Yes, please."

They busied themselves with buttering their scones and tasting the spinach tortilla Dobby had made for them. The first pot of tea was empty before Harry even got to eat his portion of Greek yogurt with elf berries, and half of the second one was also gone quicker than seemed reasonable for two children.

"I can't believe how hungry I am," Hermione groaned as she ate her poached egg. "I'm never this hungry after exercising, so it must be the magic I've used."

Harry, who was hungry as well, but couldn't find anything wrong with his appetite, just shrugged. "'S not like you'll get fat." He pushed the bowl with fresh elf berries over the table. "Have some more of those, they always fill me up."

After breakfast, Hermione insisted on giving the spell a few more tries. She concentrated on the wand movements and the words and was only a little disappointed that she hadn't quite managed it when Harry declared the lesson over.

"We'll work on it," he promised. "You're almost there."

"How do you know?" Hermione asked.

Harry averted his eyes. "Uhm, when you cast, the air kind of vibrates around you. I always know when you're close to getting it right."

Hermione's mouth dropped open. "Harry, that's ... that's amazing! Really?"

"Yeah, it's like how a thunderstorm feels just before lighting strikes and the first rain falls." Harry cleared his throat. "When the spell is about to work, it feels like the storm is breaking loose."

"Do all spells feel the same?" Hermione asked, still astonished.

"Nah, charms are sort of soft, and transfiguration is a little edgy. Like the difference between art and natural sciences, if that makes sense."

"It does, actually. What about the Patronus?" Hermione took Harry's hand and held it tightly. "How does that feel?"

"It's warm," Harry admitted. "Like an embrace, but made of light."

"That's stunning. And it's a very valuable advantage, right there." Hermione's eyes began to shine as her mind started to spin. "If you're able to feel the difference between spells and charms, you can defend yourself much better. Or it'll give you an edge, at least."

"I've never thought about it," Harry confessed. "It's just a little wiggle along my skin, and I have to stand fairly close to the person."

"Still, it's amazing, almost like echo radiolocation," Hermione said. "Will you tell me when I'm about to manage that revealing spell?"

Harry smiled uncertainly. "What, like a second before it happens?"

"It's for science," Hermione insisted. "Plus, I want to try to feel it myself. Even if it's not a talent of mine, it could be dead useful if it could be learned." She tapped his glasses. "I don't know when you'll be able to get rid of these, but not having to rely on your eyes might come in handy one day."

That was true enough, Harry supposed. "But not today. We've both got stuff to do, and tomorrow is your birthday. No work allowed, unless you count unwrapping presents and eating cake as work."

Hermione's eagerness softened and she smiled. "I'm so looking forward to it. Do you have a time in mind for us to meet for breakfast?"

"How about eight? That way I have enough time for everything," Harry said.

"Eight it is." Hermione impulsively hugged him, a full body hug that had him blushing. "I can hardly wait."

Harry found that he could hardly wait, either. It was with quite a bit of regret that they finally went to have their showers and let Betty return them to their common room.

oOo

The afternoon passed quietly for Harry, even though he managed to keep an eye on Ron. It required a couple rounds of Exploding Snap, during which the spells on Ron thankfully were mostly at rest.

This did give Harry something to think about, though, and he sent Tilly the house elf to Professor McGonagall with a request for a short talk. The reply came almost instantly, inviting Harry whenever it was convenient.

"What is it, Potter?" the professor asked once she'd admitted Harry into her office. "Did you take the spells off Mr. Weasley?"

"Only the revealing spell for now, Professor," Harry admitted. He flushed slightly. "Er, it's Hermione's birthday tomorrow, and I wanted to ask whether it'd be very unethical to leave them on until she's had her party."

Professor McGonagall stared at him for a full minute. "Why, Mr. Potter," she finally uttered, "that's positively Slytherin of you."

"I know. I'm sorry, ma'am." Harry hung his head. "I don't feel good about it, it's just Hermione's first real party with friends and I guess I don't want anyone to ruin it for her."

Professor McGonagall sighed. "Take a seat, Potter, this discussion might take a while." She waited until he'd settled on the chair and then called for tea. "Now, I want you to know that I understand your position." Her mouth quirked a little. "Quite well, actually. And I'm relieved that you are aware of the ethical quandary the whole situation presents."

"I don't have anything against helping Ron," Harry insisted. "But it's not helping us to take the spells down right now, does it? Also, if I waited, Ron could have the party, too. I'm not sure Hermione would allow him to stay if he were mean to her."

"Understandable," Professor McGonagall allowed. A house elf appeared, carefully placed a tea service onto her desk, and bobbed a curtsey at them both. "Thank you, dear. The sandwiches are looking especially lovely this afternoon."

"Head elf Romy be getting lox for Professor Kitty and Harry Potter sir," the little elf supplied and popped away after grinning shyly at Harry.

McGonagall glanced briefly at Harry as she poured the tea. "The little ones sure seem to like you, Mr. Potter."

"I like them, too." Harry found himself relaxing as he accepted his tea cup. "They offered to help set up the party tomorrow. I hope that's alright."

"It's fine," she assured him. "Back to the unfortunate situation with Mr. Weasley. Your argument has merit, and I certainly approve that you want to include him in Miss Granger's party. Fact is that whoever spelled Mr. Weasley certainly doesn't expect his work to come undone so soon. It also stands to reason that Mr. Weasley might be spelled again as soon as the absence of those spells is discovered. Therefore, while it certainly is a hard decision to make, I support leaving Mr. Weasley as he is until after Miss Granger's birthday. Afterwards, however, I expect you to do what you can."

"I will. Will you go see your friend later?" Harry asked.

Professor McGonagall nodded sharply. "It is my duty to this school to remain free from outside influences. The security and wellbeing of you children depend on it."

Harry steeled himself for his next question. "Uh, Professor ... when I check you, and I find something ..."

"I expect you to do the same for me," she said immediately. "Do it behind my back, if you must. Heaven knows what compulsions might be on me, and what I'd do if they were challenged directly. It's a wonder I can speak so freely right now - the caster of the spells clearly hasn't factored the students in. Yet."

"Alright, but I, uh, I'll probably cancel your, uh, personal spells as well." Harry blushed bright red. "Sorry."

Professor McGonagall sighed. "Don't worry about me, Mr. Potter. It's a small price to pay, and I can reapply all those spells myself." She placed a few sandwiches on a plate and pushed it over. "Eat. You look like you're about to expire from embarrassment."

"I'm sorry." The heat in Harry's face was becoming uncomfortable. "Hermione explained her spell to me earlier. I was ... unprepared."

That brought an actual smile to his stern professor's face. "Yes, I imagine you were. You survived the ordeal in one piece, though."

"Why do people think that students in my year could want babies?" Harry burst out. "That's crazy!"

Professor McGonagall took a long sip of tea before she said, "It's not so much a matter of want, and it's not only a spell to prevent unwanted pregnancies. The spell is designed to deflect any and all unwanted sexual contact. It's an ugly business that it is even necessary, if I'm perfectly honest, but since you're asking the question, you deserve an answer. Even as little as a hundred years ago, it was still perfectly acceptable in certain circles to choose brides and grooms very young. As young as eleven, in fact. Of course, not many families felt actually comfortable to betrothe their children at that age, never mind marrying them off. It was common practice to wait and see how a child would do academically, to fully be able to evaluate their worth on the marriage mart."

"Wow, that is ugly," Harry said.

Professor McGonagall nodded. "To keep the bride price low for desirable partners, certain families encouraged their children to take liberties to ensure that a betrothal or marriage had to take place, else the family with the inopportuned child face societal ruin."

"Liberties?" Harry frowned.

"Lad, I ... I wish I didn't have to say it," McGonagall admitted. "There were no few cases of sexual harassment and even rape over the centuries. It didn't happen in close to a hundred years, because the school contract and attendance vows now outright ban such behaviour and would cost the offender his or her magic, but it wasn't always so. Children had to rely on advanced protective charms to get through their school years unharmed."

"At Hogwarts?" Harry asked, shocked. "I thought it was the best school in Britain!"

"Yes, even at Hogwarts," Professor McGonagall said quietly. "For all its purported greatness, it never was a very modern school, if you get my meaning. The implementation of the new school contract actually only happened under Headmistress Eupraxia Mole, in 1899. She lost a daughter to such deplorable machinations and did everything she could to prevent such from ever happening again in this school. To this day, no one managed to overturn her ruling - you see, Madam Mole saw fit to involve Gringotts in the legal and magical process. As they abhor treating children like cattle, every overture the Ministry has made since then to loosen the restrictions or even cancel the contract outright have been viciously repelled."

"If the school contract is so good, why the spell?" Harry pulled a sandwich apart but didn't eat it.

"Because the school contract restricts offenders at school, but not outside of it, and we want to protect our students during holidays as well," she explained. "The spell Madam Pomfrey uses can't be broken easily, and the DMLE will be alerted automatically if it is violated. It is especially effective against muggles, which sets many of the witches at ease who venture out into their world. Of course, it was a woman who designed it."

"Wow, okay. That's good!"

"Thank you. We think so, too." Professor McGonagall eyed Harry thoughtfully. "Excuse me for asking, but will you get the spell as well? Frankly, I'm a bit concerned that Dumbledore hasn't sent you to the infirmary, yet. As the last of your family, you should definitely guard yourself against ... shenanigans."

"I didn't even know the spell was availabe, or that it was available to boys," Harry said. "How did Hermione hear about it?"

"She got the permission slip with her Hogwarts letter, just like the Hogsmeade permission slip. I assume you didn't get it, then?" When Harry shook his head, she pursed her lips. "How strange, they usually get sent with every letter from third year up. I'll look into it, but I don't anticipate any problems on that front."

"Thank you, Professor." Harry finally popped one half of the little sandwich in his mouth and chewed it. After swallowing, he cleared his throat and wiped his sweaty hand on his pant leg. "Er, since I'm already here ... how mad would you be if I chose to leave the Quidditch team and join the newspaper club?"

Professor McGonagall's nostrils flared. "I knew that your magical guardian's proxy's foolishness would come back to haunt me. How serious are you?"

Harry shrugged uncomfortably. "I like playing, I do, but what the guys at the newspaper do is important. It's not a game, and I want to help. I mean, the Prophet is printing so many lies, and the internationel press don't really have a presence in Britain, apparently. I want a local newspaper that's fair."

"Fair to you," McGonagall said with a raised eyebrow.

"That, too," Harry acknowledged, "but mostly just fair. It's for Buckbeak, and Sirius Black, and everyone who has no idea how unhappy the students are with Hogwarts right now. Hermione's drafting another petition already, and the first one has barely made the rounds for signing."

Professor McGonagall made a small sound, something in between a laugh and a choke. "I'm sure it'll be ... interesting."

"I hope so," Harry said, more certain now. "Her ideas make a lot of sense."

"Tell her to come see me before she publishes her petitions," McGonagall said. "I won't censor her, but if her proposals are as sound as you say, I may sponsor them and lobby for changes within the faculty. As to your question: I'd be very irritated, Mr. Potter, but since it is your school career and not mine, all I could do would be to wish you luck and find a seeker that's half as good as you to replace you."

"Ginny Weasley is good," Harry offered. "Just in case." He ate the second half of his sandwich and took a large drink of his tea. "Say, Professor ... do the house elves call you Professor Kitty because you can turn into a cat?"

"Merlin, yes. They know when a magical can transform, and they also know their form. Always. It's an embarrassment."

oOo

The morning of Hermione's birthday, Harry took a few minutes to just lie in bed and count his blessings. He was alive, felt really good thanks to Gringotts and Healer Williams' help, had a godfather who loved him and could turn into a big black dog, and the friendship of three rather fantastic house elves.

And he had Hermione.

A girl so bright that it was blinding sometimes, and so pretty that Harry sometimes felt his heart stutter just for seeing her. She had her faults, of course, because who didn't, and she was just about perfect in his eyes, anyway.

If that's what my dad felt for my mum, he must've been really happy, he thought. A grin tugged at his lips and the first nervous flutters made his stomach twinge. "Dobby."

The elf appeared on the bed, ears raised and slightly quivering with excitement. "Harry Potter sir be awake! Dobby be putting fancy clothes out while Harry Potter sir be in the shower."

"Thank you," Harry said and sat up. "Is everything ready for the party?"

"Hoggywarty elves be helping," Dobby told him. "They be insisting because they be proud ally of Dobby's Harry Potter sir. There be lots of healthy, delicious food. Dobby be supervising and Betty be preparing Come And Go Room for breakfast."

"You're the best, every single one of you." Harry grabbed the elf and hugged him spontaneously. "Thank you all so much. I'm sure it'll be great."

Dobby was practically glowing with pleasure as he squeaked, "Dobby be doing everything he can to make Harry Potter sir happy. Now it be time for washing and dressing. Miss Mione be up already. She be very excited."

Still grinning, Harry quietly got up, gathered the things Dobby had laid out for him, and went to have his shower. He fought a little with his hair but gave it up when his wand warned him that he had only five more minutes to get down to the common room.

The other boys were still asleep and therefore didn't see Harry pick up a small nosegay of violet, pink, and white asters. It was a beautiful little work of art, with magical dew glittering on the soft petals. Betty had really gone all out for this.

"Good morning," Harry said as he came down the stairs. Hermione was already waiting for him - a vision in a knee length dress of a stormy blue colour and a cream coloured short jacket. She'd put her hair up and smiled widely at him. "Happy Birthday, 'Mione!"

"Thank you, Harry!" Hermione flew at him and embraced him tightly. "You look so dashing!" She fingered Harry's silky shirt collar and brushed a hand over his inky black robes.

"I got you your birthday flowers, asters," Harry said, a little flustered. "Betty said that they'd go well with your dress. She was right."

Hermione kissed him on the cheek and then looked appreciatively at the flowers. "They're beautiful, thank you. I'll put them in a vase. Maybe Betty knows a way to preserve them for a while."

That first present out of the way, Harry offered her his arm. "Shall we?"

Hermione wound her arm around his and snuggled close. "Yes, please."

They left the common room, turned around a corner and let Dobby whisk them away to the Come And Go Room.

Both teens stopped in the open door and stared for a long moment. The room looked like a posh English tea room. There were three round tables next to the floor length French doors, bedecked in white table cloth, sparkling glasses and gleaming silverware, as well as an abundance of autumn flowers, but only the one in the middle was heaping with food and drink. Beyond the windows, a huge green lawn stretched out, bordering on a forest with flaming orange and red treetops. The weather was a bit rainy, but the early sun was also peeking through the rolling clouds. The effect was rather spectacular.

"This is fantastic," Hermione whispered. She stepped inside and looked around. "It looks just like that really nice place my parents took me to once after I'd received my highschool diploma."

"I'm glad you like it," Harry said and led her to the table. As Sirius had instructed, he pulled out the chair for her and took the flowers to a cleverly placed vase. "I tried to think of your favourite foods, but Dobby said to tell you that you can ask for anything if something's missing."

"Oh, it's so lovely, I couldn't possibly do that," Hermione insisted. She took a deep breath. "I didn't think having this breakfast with you would be so grand. I'm glad I listened to Betty and chose the dress." She smiled a little helplessly at Harry. "You're really trying to make this day special, aren't you?"

"Yep. I have to impress my older girlfriend, right?" Harry grinned. He sat down and offered Hermione the choice between tea and coffee. When she chose a small cup of coffee, he doctored it for her with cream and a sprinkle of sugar and handed it over. "Would you like some music? Dobby brought a gramophone and some vinyl records."

Hermione agreed and soon they were listening to music from the Roaring Twenties and the Dirty Thirties while they first downed a nutrient potion and then munched their way through breakfast foods from all over the world. They took their time appreciating every new dish and even managed not to talk about school, the newspaper, or even Ron for a whole hour.

When they were finally so full that they could barely move, the dishes were silently cleared off and cups of hot chocolate appeared in front of them.

"That was great," Hermione sighed happily. She patted her stomach. "I'd love to make this into a tradition."

Harry smiled, her pleasure stoking the pride in his breast. "I'm on board with that. Are you ready for your gift?"

Eyes sparkling, Hermione sat up. "I tried to guess, but I have no idea. I'm only pretty sure it's probably not a book, what with Hector's legacy giving me more or less carte blanche."

"No, it's not a book." Harry took a small package from his robe pocket and placed it on the table. It was wrapped in scarlet paper and adorned with a pretty golden bow. "I hope you'll like it."

Carefully, Hermione opened first the bow and then the paper, revealing a small, velvety box.

"Harry," she whispered, tracing her finger over the dark blue, sparkling material.

"Go on, open it," he encouraged her, heart in his throat.

A little shakily, Hermione opened the lid and made a little shocked sound. She reached inside and pulled out a golden necklace. "A snake medallion. It's beautiful." Looking at Harry, she chewed on her lower lip. "You shouldn't have. It's too much, honestly."

"It's not. The real present is the snake - it'll open the Chamber of Secrets for you when I'm not with you. Gringotts made it from a galleon and a friend helped me charm it. I also set a new password, so only you and me can enter the chamber. Because of Slytherin's books I had to close the whole thing against direct travel, that's why it's even necessary. The house elves will guard it against other elves for me."

Hermione stared, and then she lunged for Harry and nearly strangled him with the strength of her hug. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!"

Harry suffered the two dozen kisses on his face with good grace and laughed when she held the necklace out to him and demanded that he put it on right now.

"There," he said, supremely satisfied with himself. "It suits you very well. Do you want to go down and try it out?"

"You have to ask?" Hermione demanded. Her skirt rustled as she hopped up. "Come on! Dobby!"

"Yes, it's time," Harry said with a grin when the elf appeared and stared at him questioningly. "You know the spot, yeah?"

"Dobby does." Dobby popped them right in front of the outer door to the chamber. "Dobby be staying close."

"Thanks. Now, just tell your medallion that you want to work in peace and quiet, 'Mione," Harry instructed.

Hermione smirked. "I want to work in peace and quiet."

At once, the snake on the medallion came to life and hissed. In response, the snakes guarding the heavy doors began to move, unwinding until the locking mechanism came undone and the door swung open.

"Wow, that's so, so amazing," Hermione said in a hushed voice. Absently, she petted the medallion, which made the tiny snake preen a little before it became dormant again.

Offering her his arm again, Harry led her inside, noting that the door closed behind them just as he'd told it to do. The closer they got, the more Hermione grew excited.

"Is that-"

"Yes."

"Can I ...?"

"Of course." Harry's smugness completely overpowered his nervousness as he witnessed Hermione's speechlessness.

As if in a trance, she walked up to the work benches and inspected everything intently. She paused at the runes for cleanliness that had been worked into every part of the equipment and even the floor around the tables to prevent dust from settling, and let her fingers dance over vials and carefully placed knives and stirring rods.

Finally, she looked up at Harry. "I don't know what to say. Really. My brain is stalling."

"Well, I sure hope you'll be able to work with this," Harry said, getting a little uncomfortable under her thoughtful stare. "Do you like it?"

"It's such a perfect gift and I only got you a broom kit for your birthday. That's not fair to you." Hermione knotted her fingers in agitation. "It feels like I can't accept this."

"You can," Harry said quickly. "Because it's not really a gift just for you, is it? We'll both work here, and you already said that you'll brew potions for me. I'm just ... providing some of the material." Or rather, Sirius provided most of the material, with Sharptooth chipping in, the crazy goblin. I should probably write another formal thank you letter, because all that stuff is really high-end, when they promised they wouldn't go overboard.

Hermione exhaled and relaxed a little. "That's true. Still ... it's a fantastic gift. The Chamber of Secrets, and I have a key ... I don't know how to thank you."

"Just be happy," Harry replied with a shrug. "And also, your broom kit is one of the best on the market, so we're even."

"Come here, you silly wizard," Hermione said and smiled, although her eyes were shimmering a little wetly.

Harry went into her open arms willingly and held her for long, long minutes. She smelled faintly of flowers and sunshine, and so many other things that all mingled to create her unique, pleasant scent.

"You've caught up to me," she whispered, a long while later. Her fingers played with the hair at the nape of Harry's neck, causing little shivers. "Soon you'll be taller than me."

"That a bad thing?" Harry asked, turning his head a little so his nose was pressed against her neck.

"No, of course not. It's just ... profound. I don't know why." Hermione sighed deeply and pressed even more closely against him. "I'm sorry, that's probably a strange thing to notice."

"It's okay. I was always the smallest boy, so it is a bit strange to suddenly be even with the other guys." Harry smiled. "I think I'll like being taller than you. It feels nice to hug you like this. Like I can protect you."

"You've protected me for years now," Hermione murmured. "You definitely don't have to be tall to be good at that. But I'm very pleased for your sake."

A bit later, after another round of exploration, Hermione encouraged Harry to list the goblin potions he most wanted to brew. Harry chose the vitamin booster for their first project, because it was easy to make and would be approved by the goblin potions master even if it wasn't perfect at first. It would just be less effective, not poisonous or even fatal.

Hermione, agreeing with Harry's approach, ranked the other five potions accordingly and placed the list with reverent care onto her chosen bench.

Since it was almost time for lunch at that point, Harry had Dobby bring them a change of clothes, because they were of one mind to keep this part of Hermione's birthday private between themselves, and then let the eager elf pop them close to the Great Hall.

oOo

After their quiet morning, mingling with their peers was a bit daunting, especially since the whole year had heard of the party by now and was invested in being welcome when it began. To keep at least a little of the peace of their date, Hermione convinced Harry to go on a long walk before they had to face their friends.

They first went to visit Hagrid and the hippogriffs, which resulted in Hermione being engulfed in a huge embrace and then being encouraged to pet Agapi. In thanks for Hermione's attention, the female hippogriff gifted her with a beautiful reddish brown feather with golden stripes.

"Yer can use it fer a quill," Hagrid said, beaming at both Hermione and Agapi. "Those are near everlasting, that's wha' my friend told me."

"Thank you very much," Hermione said to Agapi and curtsied prettily. "I'll honour your feather always."

Agapi bowed back, giving a pleased coo. The dead ferret Hagrid threw her as a reward made her feathers puff out a little in a handsome display of shimmering colour.

"Say, have you heard from your friend already?" Harry asked. "Mr. Papageorgiu surely has something to say to the Ministry's plans for Buckbeak."

Hagrid coughed a little and looked at everything but Harry for a moment. "Er, yes, his house elf brought a letter last night. I didn't wan' ter worry you, though. It's mos'ly good, in any case."

"Is ist really?" Hermione asked. "Is there something we can do for you, Hagrid?"

"Naw. It's yer birthday, Hermione. I wilna let yer worry yer pretty head about it terday, alright? Tomorrow is soon enough." Hagrid smiled a little about Hermione's huff. "Enjoy yer party and don't worry about me, yeh promise me that."

"But tomorrow you'll tell me everything," Hermione said, eyebrows raised. "We won't let you deal with this alone, Hagrid. We promised, and we will save Buckbeak. Just wait and see."

Harry gave the hippogriff in question a good rub along his beak and cheeks. "Your owner will probably kick our Minister's arse, and I hope that I'll get to see it."

Buckbeak cawed and butted his beak into Harry's hands for some more petting.

"I really hope yer right," Hagrid admitted. "It's just ... after Azkaban last year, I don' really trust the Ministry."

"It's okay if you can't hope for the best," Hermione said. "Us students will have enough hope for both you and Buckbeak."

"Speakin' of havin' ... here, yer present." Hagrid ducked his head a little as he pulled a small parcel from one of his many coat pockets. "It's no' as fine as what Agapi gave yeh, but yeh might have use fer it anyway."

"Thank you, Hagrid!" Hermione stood on her tiptoes and bussed the man's cheek. "That's very thoughtful of you. Should I open it right now?"

"Take yer time, lass," Hagrid said gruffly. "I heard about yer party; yer might want ter be careful about the punch ... the Weasley lads have been by, got a 'lil bit of moonshine off of me."

"Ugh, thanks for the warning." Harry laughed. "Although you're invited, right, 'Mione?"

"Of course you are, Hagrid," she agreed with a determined nod. "It starts at three. There'll be lots of cake."

"Thanks, yeh two. But now off with yeh; I can see when young ones want ter be alone." Hagrid winked, accepted yet two more short hugs, and then resolutely sent them on their way.

The walk around the Black Lake took a good while, and the weather was only holding by a thread. Hermione wasn't complaining about the chilly wind, but Harry decided that they could both do with a warming spell and cast it easily on their clothes.

"You have no idea how appealing it is when you do that, do you?" Hermione asked, shivering gratefully as the spell chased away the cold. "Casting sixth year spells like they're nothing."

"Uhm, no," Harry admitted, flushing a little under her admiring gaze. "But that's a good thing, right?"

"Very good." Hermione shyly wound her arm around Harry's and put her head on his shoulder. "It's so amazing how you barely stop to think about whether you ought to be able to do it at all."

"My healer said that it's a talent," Harry admitted. "Sort of like your memory."

"I'm sure it is," Hermione said. "A dead useful one, too, since you've got the magical power to match."

Harry bit down on his lip. "I should probably keep that down around others. It wouldn't be an advantage otherwise."

"Probably, yes." Hermione sighed. "That doesn't mean you can't do well in school, though. It might not challenge you like you should be challenged, but it's safe, and that's the most important thing right now."

"My Patronus kind of gave it away," Harry muttered. "That was stupid of me."

"It was not." Hermione carefully manoeuvered them both to a large, flat boulder and sat them down. The view over the misty lake and at the castle was breathtaking. "Some students were curious, of course, but everyone in that Patronus Club knows just how important emotions are for the spell. Even if you've produced a strong Patronus, it won't mean more than what Ron assumed: that you have a singularly well-suited memory, and maybe a little more power than the typical third year student. Heck, by now the whole school believes in the Harry Potter Factor, trademark pending."

"'Mione," Harry protested, although he grinned a little. "There is no Harry Potter Factor."

"There so is, mister." She pointed at him. "Strange blood protection, brought upon by your mum's sacrifice? Check. Winning a battle against a fully grown basilisk, with the aid of a phoenix and a sword of all things? Check. Befriending a bonded house elf? Double-check."

"You make it sound all weird."

"Well, it is weird," Hermione said, quite matter-of-factly. "But I'm grateful that someone's looking out for you when you really need it."

"Do you think someone does?" Harry asked, a little wistfully. "I know that there are ghosts, but I honestly hope that it's not my parents. I wouldn't want them to worry because of me."

She smiled and treaded her fingers into his. "Well, I imagine that they'd worry about you in any case, if they're somehow aware of what's happening here. But to help you out of your scrapes probably requires someone or something with more power than our usual ghost. The universe, maybe."

"Now you're just being mean," Harry pouted. "It's not that bad."

Hermione giggled and kissed him on the cheek. "We'll wait and see how this year goes, then, but I'm pretty sure I'll win this argument."

Frowning, Harry held her hand tighter. "You don't always have to be right, you know."

"But I very nearly always am right, regardless," she grinned. "It's a blessing and a curse." She snuggled closer to him and took Hagrid's present out of her pocket. "Maybe I should open it here, where it's unlikely to do someone harm."

"Hagrid gives great presents," Harry defended his friend, "even if they sometimes try to bite you."

Amused, Hermione carefully pried open the rough packet cord. Once that was gone, the brown wrapping paper fell away and revealed three large, gleaming seeds. They looked almost like chestnuts, as they had a light gold patch on one end, but they were a bit larger and heavier.

"What are those? There's no note," Hermione asked, intrigued.

"I have a pretty good book about magical botany, and if that fails there's always Neville," Harry said, cautiously sniffing the things. "They smell a bit like chocolate."

"Oh, you're right! Fascinating!" Hermione turned the seeds over and rubbed them with her thumb. "They're so smooth, almost like polished glass."

Unfortunately, there was no more time to get the book if they didn't also want to ask one of the house elves to pop them back to the castle.

"I can find out what they are soon enough," Hermione said and put the re-wrapped seeds back in her coat pocket. "But it might be hard to find time for a walk with you." She blinked against the light drizzle. "The rest of the year might well drown in rain, and I don't envy you for having to play Quidditch in this weather."

"I know, that's my least favourite part of it." Harry tried not to puff up too badly when Hermione took his arm again and fell into step easily. "I actually asked Professor McGonagall how mad she would be if I dropped it after all."

"And?"

"She was angry about Dumbledore's meddling and told me she'd support my decision, so ..." Harry shrugged. "I guess I'll leave whenever the newspaper needs me more than the Quidditch team. If that even happens; I know that you've gained a ton of new members this week."

"Sounds like a plan," Hermione said and smiled. "Thanks for taking this so seriously. I'm pretty sure some people rather hope that we'll crash and burn, and the sooner the better."

"Will you be okay with Zabini there?" Harry couldn't help but ask. "He seems to be okay, but we don't know him."

"Don't worry about it, the Herald's charter actually prohibits members from working against each other. It was important to Lavender to not have story thieves around. Apparently it's quite bad at the Prophet, and no wonder when the real stories are getting buried all the time and the reporters have to fight for the scraps." Hermione looked over the vast landscape and sighed happily. "Despite everything, Hogwarts really is quite beautiful, isn't it?"

"It is," Harry agreed. "And wait until you see what the house elves have done for your party. You'll flip."

oOo

Nearly all of Gryffindor was waiting in the common room for them as Harry and Hermione returned from their walk. The first thing they noticed were the colourful streamers and balloons everywhere. Second were the many flower wreaths on the walls, and in some corners invisible cannons shot glitter into the air, which then rained down on the students' heads. But the best part for everyone present obviously were the already playing radio and the three heavily laden buffet tables in different areas of the room.

"There you are, Hermione!" Fred Weasley called. He and his brother swiftly picked her up and hoisted her on their shoulders, loudly beginning to sing the birthday song.

As the whole house sang along and Hermione blushed to the roots of her hair, Harry kept his eye on Ron, who was standing close to one of the tables. He didn't seem to be able to take any of the food and his put out expression made Harry laugh.

After the song, the Weasley twins sat Hermione into a gaudy, golden chair, placed an equally gaudy golden crown on her head, and bowed lowly.

"It is now time to offer our gifts to the Queen of Gryffindor," George said unctuously and proffered a wrapped parcel. "May this humble offering keep us in your good graces."

Flushing again, Hermione accepted the present, muttering, "Shut it, you clown."

To her great dismay, a lot of her house mates had a lot of fun bowing and scraping and seeing her blush uncomfortably, even the girls, who catered to her as if she really were a queen. Most presents were small, hastily found things as there hadn't been a lot of time, but at the end there was still a sizable mountain of wrapped parcels at Hermione's feet.

Finally, the gift giving was over and Hermione stood, visibly touched. "Thank you all so much for coming to my party and making this day special. Uhm, as you can see we've got lots of snacks and drinks, so please tuck in and have fun."

Cheers broke out and the jostling for rasberry muffins and cucumber sandwiches and hot chocolate began. Harry grinned at Hermione, pleased with the attention his girlfriend had gotten.

"There's this huge chocolate cake with your name on it," he said. "Can I get you a piece?"

Hermione nodded. "Please. Tea for you?"

They parted and met again at a small table, where Neville was already sitting with a plate full of sandwiches and fruit.

"Hey, great buffet, Hermione," Neville said. "How did you get that arranged?"

She blushed prettily. "Harry planned it, so you'll have to ask him."

"The house elves helped. I offered to pay for the food, but they refused to accept it. They said it was part of their job to give students birthday parties," Harry said and put a piece of cake into his mouth. "Oh, that's fantastic."

Hermione had a bite as well and sighed happily. "Absolutely. House elves are a marvel."

They enjoyed their cake and watched the merry party go on. Most students were eating, but some of them, Fred and George among them, were more interested in dancing with the girls of their year.

"Oh, look who's coming!" Seamus cried when the portrait opened and Hagrid squeezed his bulk through.

The man waved awkwardly, yet obviously pleased, at the welcoming shouts. Right behind him, Professor McGonagall stepped through the entrance.

"Excuse me," Hermione said. "I'll get them a cup of tea."

Harry and Neville watched her go, both grinning at each other.

"She's such a teacher's pet," Ron grumbled as he sat down in Hermione's abandoned chair. "How do you stand it?"

"Hermione invited Hagrid, and you know that she respects and likes Professor McGonagall a great deal," Neville said brusquely. "Get over it, Ron."

"Why should I? She makes all of us look bad," Ron complained. "Look how she slimes her way into their good graces."

"She's just giving them tea and cake," Harry hissed, glaring at the other boy. "Your mum regularly stuffs people with food. Are you saying she's sliming her way into their good graces?"

Ron scowled. "That's different!"

"How?" Neville challenged him. "Explain, because I'm tired of your badmouthing."

"We're family." Huffing, Ron tried to pull Hermione's unfinished cake towards himself and even picked up her fork. "You can't tell me it's not annoying you."

"It's not," Harry said, eyes narrowing. "But it annoys me that you're trying to eat her cake." He stretched and took the plate back. "What's wrong with you? Get your own. There's enough for everyone."

"I knew that you'd take her side," Ron said as he got up. "Just wait and see, she'll toss you aside as soon as she's gotten what she wants from you."

Neville snorted and actually rolled his eyes - a first in all the time Harry had known him. "Merlin, listen to yourself. What could Hermione want from Harry, other than his friendship? She's got her own money now, and she's the smartest student in the whole school."

"Yes, but Harry's got loads more money than her after the , doesn't he? She might want to trap him; girls do that all the time to rich blokes." Ron shook his head. "Whatever, she'll show her true colours soon enough."

Speechless, Harry and Neville watched him go, back to the table with the cake, where he loaded a plate with four different huge pieces.

"He's mad," Neville said, a little shocked. "I can't believe the things he just said."

"Yeah, me neither," Harry murmured. "I mean, why is he even thinking about stuff like that? I don't get it. We're thirteen."

Neville looked pityingly at him. "A couple of centuries ago, people were able to claim their lordships at that age. We're young, but clearly Ron's got issues with that kind of thing ... and with Hermione in particular." He looked thoughtfully at her as she entertained Hagrid and McGonagall. "I wonder if he fancies her."

"Well, if that's the case, he's got a really shitty way of showing it," Harry replied crossly. "He has to know that she'd never go on a date with him, the way he is now."

"Yes, that seems very improbable," Neville said with a meaningful look. "You gave her jewellery for her birthday."

Harry flushed a little. "So?"

"Relax, it's just obvious to people who're looking for this kind of thing. I mean, it could be from anyone, but everyone knows that you're her best friend, so ... You might want to look into charms to hide that, if you want to keep your relationship with her secret ... or as secret as it can be."

"Do you think I should? And, er, is it very obvious?"

Neville shrugged. "Not really, but as I said, people who're looking for this kind of thing will see it. Considering how known you both are, it might be. Right now you keep the school guessing, more or less, but that pendant will have everyone talking. It might get back to the wrong people."

"I'll ask Professor Flitwick," Harry decided. "Do you think he'd enjoy a piece of cake?"

"Oh, he would," Neville laughed. "It's to die for."

Harry got up, taking Hermione's plate and fork. "I'll ask Hermione if it's okay ... knowing her she'll invite the rest of them as well. No one'll notice if I ask Flitwick for a charm then."

Of course Hermione was all for it, and so one of Hogwarts' house elves was called to extend the invitation to all the teachers. Not a quarter of an hour later, Professors Flitwick and Sinistra appeared, beaming and with a little gift for Hermione each. Hermione, of course, was thrilled and proceeded to play host to the newcomers.

"Marvellous," Professor Flitwick cheered, tucking into his chocolate cake with great gusto. "How lovely that you students thought to invite the faculty as well. It's been a few decades since the practice was popular."

Harry furtively looked around, and while a few of the older students seemed put out at having their drinking interrupted, none appeared hostile. To the contrary, the girls from the Quidditch team and a few of the seventh year students all got a cup of coffee and another piece of cake and parked themselves close to the professors with the intent of some grilling.

"That was a lovely idea, Harry," Hermione said as she looked at the horde of her guests enjoying themselves. "I should've thought of it myself. There's Professor Babbling, and I'm sure Professor Vector will be by soon, as well."

"Next year, then," Harry murmured and squeezed her hand. The necklace around her slender neck really was rather showy, in its understated way. It didn't make him feel any better to acknowledge that Neville was right.

Harry felt a little underhanded as he refilled Hermione's plate with tiny sandwiches and got her a glass of their elf berry lemonade before encouraging her to join the increasing gaggle of teachers and students, tagging along as inconspiciously as he could. Through some divine luck he even ended up next to Professor Flitwick and managed to initiate a conversation about his wand holster and the charms on it.

"It's a fancy bit of charm work, to be sure," Flitwick said genially after inspecting Harry's holster. "Disillusionment before any and all eyes can be taught rather quickly, it's the selective disillusion that's tricky." He flicked his wrist and his wand appeared in his hand. "Let's see, ah, my pocket watch should be just the object for this little demonstration. Here ... Inuisibilitas haec." The pocket watch vanished at once before Harry's eyes. "It's invisible to everyone now, even me."

"Wow, that's incredible, sir!" Harry reached out and touched the cool surface of the watch.

Flitwick winked. "Of course this particular spell is a rather personalized version. Haec means this in English, because I am far too old to look up the Latin names for every little thing I might wish to disillusion. Drives my colleagues crazy during our annual prank week, of course, because they're not able to end the spell."

"You have a prank week?" Harry stared at the man. "Why?"

"To keep up with the times, of course." Professor Flitwick cheerfully ended the spell and tucked the watch back into his pocket. "Every year bright minds all over the world invent new spells and it is our duty to our students to be up to date in our area of expertise."

"And, er, when is this week?"

By now, some of the other students were paying attention, and giggles could be heard.

"When the last journal has come out, which is in the middle of December," Professor McGonagall supplied. She looked as stern as ever, but Harry thought he could see her eyes gleam with mirth. "We give the last one, which is me, two weeks to study the journal, and during the holidays, the game is afoot."

"I never noticed," Harry said. "I feel like I missed out."

"Not just you, Harrikins." Fred squeezed in the gap between Harry and Katie Bell, while his twin sat down crosslegged onto the carpet. "I think we'll stay home this Yule and see what kind of shenanigans our dear professors get up to. It's what you said, Professor Flitwick: Never stop learning."

"It is at that." Flitwick laughed merrily. "I'll have to warn you, though. Those in the know might be included in our pranks, and we're all rather merciless in the pursuit of victory."

Having gotten what he'd been after, Harry gracefully bowed out of that conversation and meandered through his partying house mates. Hermione was sitting with a group of girls, all of them intent on a book that way lying open on their table. Parvati was demonstrating a spell on her hair, making it curl gently. Harry left her to it, glad that she was finally connecting to the other girls of their house.

In the boys' dorm, he made sure that he was alone and then pulled out his family wand. For a test object, he chose his oldest quill.

"Dobby," Harry whispered. "Do you have a little time?"

Dobby appeared in a flush of magic. "Dobby does. How may Dobby help Harry Potter sir?"

"I want to try out a new spell. Can you turn my quill back to normal, should I mess it up?"

"Dobby can." The house elf's ears twitched expectantly.

"Awesome." Harry sat back. "I'll try it out a couple of times first before I tap the quill ... Inuisibilitas haec." A small burst of magic left his wand. "Okay ... so far, so good. Inuisibilitas haec!" This time, the burst was larger, and a lot more defined. "Hey, I think I might just get this."

Harry shot the spell into thin air half a dozen times more, until he felt confident with the feel of it.

"Harry Potter sir be trying now?" Dobby asked, eyes large.

"I think so. Alright ... no wand movement, just tapping the object ..." Harry tapped the quill and said, "Inuisibilitas haec!"

At once, the quill lost most of its colour, and the tip disappeared completely.

"Not bad. Finite incantatem." To Harry's relief, the quill returned to normal. "Again. Inuisibilitas haec."

Once more, the quill lost colour, half of its lower side vanishing from Harry's sight. Twice more, Harry tried the spell, each time advancing further.

"I'll get this," Harry promised his excitedly vibrating friend. "It's for Hermione's safety. I have to. Inuisibilitas haec."

The quill vanished completely and Harry whooped loudly.

"Harry Potter sir be a great wizard," Dobby squeaked.

"Thanks, Dobby. I just have one more test ..." Harry ended the spell and then hissed the incantation in parseltongue. With a little snap, the quill disappeared. "Perfect!" After a moment's elation, his face fell. "But how do I tell her that she'll have to hide the necklace? She might be insulted, or worse, sad."

"Miss Mione be clever female. She be understanding, Dobby be sure of it."

"She is. That doesn't mean it's not difficult. I wish the wizarding world weren't so complicated."

Dobby patted his shoulder. "It be alright, Harry Potter sir."

With that, he vanished in a soft pop.

A few minutes later, Hermione snuck into the boys' dorm, her face worried.

"Hey, Dobby said you needed to see me?"

Harry sighed. "Yeah. Ron came by after you went to talk with the professors. He said some nasty things about you."

"Of course he did," Hermione huffed. "What was it this time? His teachers' pet rant?"

"Among other things. I, uh, talked to Neville, and he said that me giving you this necklace was sort of a declaration." Harry hesitated. "And that Ron maybe fancies you, and is angry now because of my present."

"Good grief, the mere idea." Hermione sat next to him on the bed. "And now?"

"Well ... Neville said that I could maybe disillusion the necklace. I don't want to do it, but it draws attention and I don't want you in Malfoy's sight any more than you already are." Harry took her hand. "I can do the spell. Professor Flitwick taught me."

Thinking it over for a few minutes, Hermione finally sighed. "I suppose it makes sense. Besides, it isn't just jewellery, it's the password to the Chamber of Secrets. It should be as secure as it can be."

"I'll get you something else," Harry promised. "It's not your fault I didn't think things through." He scowled. "A snake, honestly. I'm sort of stupid, aren't I?"

"You're not, and I love that medallion," Hermione scolded. "Disillusioning it is a really good idea, however, and if you can do the spell, please do it. I have a gold pendant from home I can put on the chain, so no one will notice anything amiss. Not many people have seen the snake on it."

"Thanks, 'Mione." Relieved, Harry drew his family wand without thinking and touched the tip against the medallion. "Inuisibilitas haec."

Hermione shivered as the flush of magic skittered over her neck and clavicle. "That felt so weird. A bit like static."

"Sorry if it was uncomfortable," Harry murmured. "At least it worked fine. Nothing to see now."

"Then let's get the other pendant." Hermione took a deep breath. "Dobby."

The elf reappeared. "How can Dobby help, Miss Mione?"

"Could you please get me the round golden pendant from my jewellery box?" Hermione asked. "The one with the lotus flower on it?"

The house elf brought the pendant and then said his goodbyes, leaving the teenagers to put their heads together and look at the small piece of gold.

"It's got to do with yoga, right?" Harry asked, tracing the little flower with his finger. "It's pretty."

"Yes, it symbolizes our beginning in the ground, and the possibility for us to ascend to the highest spiritual spheres." Hermione opened her necklace and put the pendant on. "It's incredible, I can feel your medallion, but there isn't even a sound when the metal touches." Correctly interpreting Harry's dissatisfied frown, she added, "Stop it, please. It's not your fault the magicals in Britain are so weird about everything, and I'd honestly rather be safe than pretty with your medallion. I know that it's there, and that really is enough for me."

"One day I'll really put you in danger," Harry said. "Just because I don't think things through. Besides, you deserve pretty things, and it's stupid that you should have to hide your gifts."

"We'll both work on that in the future, because I should've thought about it as well," Hermione promised. "Thankfully we have Neville - he's a good friend and seems to know lots and lots about the wizarding world. Since he's your godbrother, he's sort of required to help you overcome your lack of knowledge. I know, because I've read the books we found cover to cover."

"He's a good guy," Harry agreed. A little reluctantly, he said, "We should head back before we're missed."

"I'll leave first," Hermione said. "Thank you for looking out for me, Harry. There's nothing a girl could want more." She leaned forward and pressed a long kiss to his lips. "I'll see you downstairs. It's getting late and Betty promised to serve pizza for dinner - directly from Italy, no less."

Feeling a little foggy with the compliment and the kiss, Harry watched her leave.

I'll have to be better, he thought, suddenly fierce. I'll write Sirius tonight and ask him how to do that. If anybody knows of a way, it's him.

---

End of part 12