Harry Potter's Secret Weapon

**OO**...

A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.

A/N: Thanks to demonboy121986 for his timely fashion advice. His designs will likely show up for sale in one of the new shops. All royalties payable in virtual chocolate chip cookies. Isn't is that biscuits? Yumm.

Wait, here biscuits and gravy are a thing; that does not sound good with chocolate chips though. I blame Karr for this mess!

**OO**

Chapter 14 - Celebrating Freedom

Friday, July 1st, Afternoon, MoM, London

Percy finally tracked down the Minister hiding in the executive dining room, disguising himself behind a three day old Daily Prophet.

He had clearly heard the results of the trial, and was avoiding everyone.

Percy had watched from close range how both Dumbledore and Malfoy treated the Minister and manipulated him. Not this time. No: It was time for Gryffindor courage and honesty!

"Minister Fudge? Do you want to be made a laughing stock? Your name is on Sirius Black's original arrest report that was just presented at his trial! Do you want pictures from the pensieve memories spread all over the world showing how stupid Britain has been?

"Or instead, do you want to step up? Be the proud Minister of Magic of Britain. 'I arrested him, trials were not my responsibility, and the man was sent to Azkaban. I never knew he didn't have a trial until France gave him one. Well, we'll give him a fair and unbiased one here to confirm the truth one way or another."

Fudge looked like he had bitten into a wormy apple, and found a busy worm. No, worse, half of one.

Fudge tried to flee from Percy, tried to flee the truth of what was being said, to hide in his seat of authority. Percy ran after him easily, his long legs keeping up with the waddling man.

Fudge paced in his opulent office, his own pensieve in the corner. Why hadn't Madam Umbridge asked to borrow the Minister's to watch the memories? Oh, the MoM seal, it likely couldn't leave the office.

"You went to this trial?" Fudge demanded.

Percy offered the prepared memory vials. Copies of which he'd turned over to Fudge's undersecretary where they were likely banished to a bin. Timing was everything.

"France considers Black a hero – a brave auror that nearly paid with his life's blood to stop the incursion of British Death Eaters onto their shores. Black won France's version of the Order of Merlin for it."

Dithering, the man finally decided to watch the memories and emerged defeated. At least Fudge spoke enough French! It helped that most of the memories were in English.

"I'll write it out now. No need for a public trial. I'll express apologies for the former administration. What were Dumbledore and Crouch playing at? This is going to be a mess."

Dumbledore had been on him all morning about the importance of appearances. How this trial going to the ICW would cause problems. He didn't say for whom.

Fudge got to work, knowing that Lucius wouldn't like this at all, but Malfoy was wanted for attempted murder. Lucius was supposed to be an upstanding member of society! Someone who donated gold to the hospital, and supported public works!

Not poisoned family members, guilty or not.

Writing it all out, 'SIRIUS BLACK EXONERATED!', would be in the evening edition of many papers in the European community, and in the muggle press as well. Just before the world found out that Harry Potter could destroy dementors.

"Mr Weasley? Can you please ask Amelia Bones to join me? I don't want her blindsided by this."

The woman had been pestering him for months. Hmm. How to spin this as though it was his actions that accomplished this?

Percy smiled and gave Fudge a formal bow. "I am happy to do so, sir, I will fetch Director Bones for you."

"Oh, and Weasley? Take the rest of the day off. In fact, don't come back on Monday. I won't be spoken to like that. Never. Pack up your desk, and begone, just as soon as you tell Bones to get up here now."

The stunned wizard went to find Director Bones. He had a mirror call to make. Fired? Well, at least he had his Deputy Steward job. But who was going to help Director Crouch?

**OO**

Friday, July 1st, Hamptworth Lodge

Lucius Malfoy threw the empty potion vial at Serena's head. The ragged house-elf was mother to Dobby and Nobby; The elder of her two was now a free elf.

She tried hard to protect her younger one from the worst of the Death Eater threat.

"Bring me a real headache potion! Now!"

Healer Marius had warned her that this would happen if her master was involved with the happenings in Paris. It was almost like he was a Seer or knew one.

The muggle potion he provided would taste similar to the regular one, but had no magic. What she was going to do when her Master found out, she didn't know.

But trying to kill someone when a healer was going to be about? Not smart!

And everyone involved in the assassination attempt was about to have a spate of bad luck. Serena shuddered.

At least he hadn't targeted the healer to kill her directly.

**OO**

"Sirius Black Exonerated" hit the Wizarding World by storm. And parts of the muggle world that followed such things. Unfortunately for the wizarding public of Britain, the real article was quashed before it saw the light of day. Fudge wasn't brave enough to deal with the matter immediately. In fact, he was trying to figure out a way out of the dilemma.

The clever writing done by a young wizard, who detested Skeeter, had submitted a well written article; full of quotes from the trial and had several pictures from memories.

Sadly, he was one of the few muggleborns of his year to actually be hired. His firing happened not long after Percy's did.

Going to the bank to deposit his severance gift that a chagrined and coerced senior editor had slipped him with a sad look, the boy headed to Gringotts.

Another talented person was snapped up by the growing Black consortium ostensibly as PR for the Pranking Parlor, and a public relations advisor for the House of Black.

The next day's Prophet ran a brand new ad stating "The Marauders Present: The Pranking Parlor! Come see our booth at the World Cup! Fireworks on display - available for your next Swa-ray, Owl-order catalogs available soon – pick yours up for just three sickles at the World Cup! Or owl the Pranking Parlor after the end of the game–When that will be? Only the Seers know and they aren't telling us!"

With so many NPGs going into new businesses and a real lack of space in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, Remus wanted to suggest building a village on the Black lands. He knew that Darlene wanted a public place like France had for balls and such. And that Sirius had promised her Malfoy Manor once all of the legal steps had been properly followed.

A new village would mean that they could sponsor a new newspaper; one based on truth, not gossip, innuendo, or outright lies. Maybe Lovegood, who only published monthly, would allow a new venture to rent his press until there was enough circulation to justify buying one of their own. Or maybe even help with a paper dedicated to the truth.

He'd still have time to do his Quibbler.

And as expected, the Daily Prophet, (shouldn't they be called Profit?), ran a hatchet piece. No one in the House bothered with it.

The piece that was actually published was full of gossip, innuendo, and implications that Black gold was involved to gain the notorious Sirius Black's freedom.

Those in the know scoffed at the paper. At least it lined owl cages just fine and kept the birds entertained with the moving pictures as targets.

**OO**

Friday, July 1st, Chateau Lumiere

The plan may not have worked as they thought, but it came out all right except for Percy losing his job. Darlene had made the dining reservations knowing that the truth would come out.

She had given Harry a very pointed look when the family reunited at Aunt Calladora's. Hermione and her parents, and Harry himself were dressed very appropriately.

Kingsley Shacklebolt? Not so much…

"Auror, are you aware of how you are dressed?" Darlene asked, averting her gaze. She knew it couldn't be Padfoot, as they had been together. But Moony was back at Blackmoor Hall, safely away from her wrath.

Kingsley looked down, "My black uniform is not acceptable?"

Padfoot slipped his wand into his hand, and Shacklebolt could now see how he was dressed.

"A unicorn onesie? A PINK unicorn onesie?"

"Who treated who like a toddler, auror! You took me out of here with nary an explanation." Harry folded his arms.

"You are right. My apologies, Heir Black. I should have taken two minutes to explain that there had been an attempt on your godparents and could have easily included you, had you been seated behind Lord Black. If you had been seated where they thought you'd be, and the device went off, you would all have been dead, with nothing for security to do in the gallery but wail, and weep and wait for the forensics. I was panicked, and acted poorly."

Harry unfolded his arms and ended the transfiguration, "Okay. I just want to state again that if I am removed from a situation because of danger that we don't leave Aunt Calladora behind!"

Kingsley, now in House Black security robes nodded, and the two shook hands. "Nice job on the prancing unicorn. It seems vaguely familiar from something."

"A children's telly show, you probably saw some merchandise in the muggle world. Unless you have a television at home? And you actually watch that sort of thing."

Tonks scoffed at that, and the group prepared to leave.

**OO**

Friday, July 1st, Paris, Boutary Restaurant Magique

A grateful Lord Black expressed a portkey to Percy to join in the family dinner. It was a large party that celebrated Sirius' first steps towards freedom. It was such good news of Sirius' proven innocence, and with Fudge's actions, he was now free to move back to Britain. Just as soon as the exoneration hit the records office officially.

They met at a fine Paris restaurant that, like other businesses, had a secret magical side. And unlike when Darlene made the reservations, she substituted three others in place of her parents and her sister.

They were not subjecting Harry to that again, and felt bad that what should have been a celebration for him the other day turned into an unpleasant evening.

It was toasts all around as the group raised their glasses to Sirius' freedom. Darlene gave her husband a sweet kiss. Harry, on the other side leaned in for a hug.

"Thank you, Harry, for your part in getting this going. Thank you, thank you. And you, Percy, built on what Harry did."

"Fudge did it! He declared in an official decree that it was all a huge misunderstanding. The Prophet might not publish the truth, at least not quickly, but it will get out eventually. " The Weasley boy shared, blushing.

Sirius shook his head, "No, him getting going now? Without going to the ICW? This was all because of you, Percy. You did so much. I am very grateful. You have a full time job with me, doing something that interests you."

Augusta smirked knowingly. "For an official notification of this kind, Fudge can't keep it quiet for long. He may have been waiting until no one was manning the records desk earlier today. But he had to file it officially, or the ICW would act. And Dumbledore would lose his position. It seems to me that more than once, people have acted to make sure that Albus keeps it. Regardless if that is best for the school. Young Percival will have many job opportunities, no doubt, once this does get out."

"I could try and help Harry with his translation project. Some of the books looked interesting." Percy admitted.

"Ye all be helping me with something. I got plenty of work. Some of it even pays." Moody stated. "Je voudrais de l'eau, s'il vous plaît." He politely asked from a passing waiter.

Hearing a request in French for water with a Scottish accent was new for Hermione, but she hid her smile well. "Moi aussi."

"Just don't let your family know that you're trying to learn parseltongue runes or you won't be welcomed back!" Sirius teased.

Harry and Hermione exchanged a look. Fudge sacked Percy for speaking truth to power. Talk about 'shooting the messenger'! Sirius would make sure that the lad was taken care of, but Crouch had been acting stranger and stranger.

Percy had been doing a lot of Crouch's reports at night and shouldering the lion's share of the director's responsibilities during the day. Unbeknownst to them, the hard-working Winky was HIS secret to getting all of the work done.

Hermione bet Harry a knut that Percy would be called back to work before Tuesday night. Harry took it, betting for a full week.

Everyone got in on the action, Aunt Calladora, Remus, Clarice, Moody, Neville, Augusta, Shack, Tonks, and even Dan and Emma. The former Big-Head Boy beamed at the love and support he was receiving from the group.

Darlene, for her part, wasn't sad to not have to put up with the teen. She did miss her parents though. They would have a quiet dinner with them on Sunday as planned.

There was murmuring amongst the other diners regarding the assassination attempt on Sirius Black, whether or not it had been intended to include Harry Potter. Who might be behind it?

For himself, Lord Black was trying to focus more on the here and now. Being free. Cuddling into his bride. Joking with his godson. On Monday, the family was leaving for Japan for its first ever holiday together! They had made reservations before the trial date was set, but all decided that this would be a great adventure. This time was precious.

Much to their pleased surprise, they were joined by the Delacour family for dessert. Jean-Claude shook hands with the former prisoner of Azkaban. Harry beamed at the Minister.

Neville conjured a chair for Fleur next to himself, while Gabrielle simply plopped herself on Harry's lap. Appoline and Jean-Claude were warmly welcomed.

Fleur admired the wicker chair that Neville had conjured. It had a floral border motif with the most amazing flowers; blooms that she had never seen before. The blooms were repeated in the bright and comfortable chair cushions.

"Oh Bon! How beautiful."

"A beautiful chair for my beautiful friend." Neville beamed, and conjured a bloom that matched for her hair.

"Wonderful job." Augusta and Calladora clapped for the magic on display, while Augusta eyed the couple speculatively, smiling.

Harry gave Gabrielle a sweet hug, but put her down so that he could stand and give her father a warm hug. The flash of a camera indicated that they were once again on display. Harry didn't care. What he had to say had to be said, and there wasn't any reason to wait.

"Thank you! You kept your promise. This means everything to me!" Harry shared openly.

Raising a glass, Sirius toasted, "To Family; of the heart, of the mind, and of the Spirit. We are family."

At that toast, Neville looked at Fleur with a touch of horror; he didn't want Fleur as his sister! Fleur subtly patted his leg, 'no need to be concerned'.

Dan smiled and Emma brushed a tear; they weren't thought of as mere squibs or muggles, and were readily accepted in this group.

They made plans to spend the night at Aunt Calladora's townhouse and spend the weekend together. Tomorrow, they planned to play together in the muggle world, going to Disneyland Paris for the day. Gabrielle was thrilled to be invited, and Fleur asked if Neville was coming as well.

Aunt Calladora offered to stay with anyone unwilling to go to the amusement park, which Augusta immediately accepted. Madam Longbottom had family history to discuss with the ex-pat.

But Augusta sent Neville off with all good will.

Sunday would be for a quiet day together: visiting museums, and watching artists on the Seine, and even visiting Notre Dame in places normally off limits to 'outsiders'. Harry had made friends there the other day.

Just before entering the theme park, Hermione asked him in a hyperly inquisitive voice, "Sirius Black! You've finally gained your freedom! What are you going to do now?"

Sirius looked around, confused. "Um, challenge Harry to a race of some kind?"

Emma prompted in a faux whisper, "I'm going to go to Disneyland!"

Sirius repeated that, much to the amusement of those raised in the muggle world, and leaving the others mystified as to just what was so funny.

Remus was the only one who enjoyed the Teacups with Harry, but Hermione got some great snaps. Harry, Hermione and Gabrielle went on every "kid's ride'' they could and had a blast. Neville and Fleur chose the walking tour of the lovely gardens and mostly avoided the thrill rides. They were enjoying a different kind of special day amongst the roses of Paris.

But the atmosphere of happiness and love was infectious. Before the night was through, as fireworks lit up the night sky, Kingsley finally got up the courage to claim a sweet, stolen kiss from Tonks that wasn't inspired by the rush of surviving a great battle.

It was quickly returned, with a promise of many more to come.

And they weren't the only couple kissing.

**OO**

Saturday night, July 2nd, Hogwarts

"It astonishes me how a title, a bit of gold, and women will marry the most mangy mutts." Severus tossed down a Parisian paper, open to the society pages. Apparently his 'anonymous' note to the wolf or maybe it was Albus had worked. At least Potter wasn't there!

If the boy had gone, and Skeeter hadn't upset Lucius' and Albus' dark plans, Severus would be dead right now. As it was, it had been too close for comfort. And he was going to take his vitriol out on the safer of the two targets. Lucius didn't need him like Albus did. And he would never serve Lucius again. He had to serve this wizard until one of them was dead.

Severus learned to always look for fine print in contracts. Too late.

"Minerva McGonagall is listed as officiating. I want you to think, Albus. Did she just forget to mention it or were you withholding vital information from me? I trusted you. The new wife. She. Is. A. Healer! She was there!"

Albus pretended to read the article; he was already familiar with the contents. She was supposed to be dead! Black with her! Wait, that didn't sound…right.

"My dear boy! Minerva officiated? She never said a word to me! I was not invited, and I should have been. A small garden wedding. I was there at the…" No. Talking about the godparent ceremony right now wasn't a good idea either. What to do? Look hurt.

"I am so sorry. I truly thought him guilty and a danger to poor Harry. And this woman! A foreigner. Worse! One of the jumped up; a social climber. Her father was a muggleborn; she has delusions of being high born. The family is clearly using their wealth to position themselves."

Severus explained, using little words. "I don't care how, but you will replace all of my cauldrons that I have lost so far since Friday morning. And the ingredients. I have only had a short time to brew for myself before this…mishap. I must have misunderstood your orders, sir."

"Now Severus, this will all blow over…"

"Anything to do with Healing? Do you not understand my work? I have to do a ritual, make amends. Apologize. Me! A…pol…o…gize! And I am sorry. I didn't know he had married, and would not have endangered any woman, especially one so mentally defective, blind, and whatever else it takes to marry…THAT!"

Two of the marauders had married, and married well. According to the newspaper, this young lady was just as talented as Lily only in the healing arts. A private healer. If Lucius knew…oh, he knew alright. House of Orléans? One did not make such a claim in THIS newspaper that wasn't true. The family could sue. No, a false claim would be quashed like an insect. And his source for international news not only confirmed that she was Duke of Orléans granddaughter, that he doted on her and was pushing for Malfoy's execution. They had proof it was him!

"Never again, Albus. Never. It is part of the ritual to ne'er repeat the sin. As you well know. Otherwise, I will never earn another knut, and I might as well buy several shawls and gaze in defective crystal balls. I would be of more use to you actually teaching divination! Choose!"

Dumbledore was acting repentant. A poor act for one used to reading him, "Severus, you are distraught. I never, ever meant to put you in harm's way. Do your ritual. I will replace your lost equipment. Make a list of ingredients and have one of the elves…" Seeing his potions master's aghast look, Albus changed course, "Or you can go yourself to pick them out. I will cover the cost."

Taking bitter herbs and wearing his simplest tunic, Severus later headed to the forest. He double checked the moon calendar before going.

It was a start to a better path, and the castle greeted him warmly, once again, upon his return. But Snape knew that he had come perilously close to losing his magic.

One thought that never occurred to him that should have, was why Petunia had raised him if his godmother wasn't Alice Longbottom. Everyone had thought so.

Typical magicals. Everyone thought so, so it must be true. Just like Black being a Death Eater. Severus didn't know! It wasn't like he ever went to the revels.

Severus would avoid Dumbledore as much as possible this summer. And Lucius too. He was so smug about his son.

Severus hoped that Draco's bad example would NOT be repeated. How to make the younger peacock preen enough to annoy all of his dormmates? Hmmm.

**OO**

Sunday, July 3rd, Chateau Lumiere

Aunt Calladora and Augusta Longbottom asked to visit with Harry in what he referred to as the 'throne room'. What Baxter called the formal parlor.

"No pranking here, Master Harry!" Baxter warned.

The ladies had a family tree laid out on the table. Tonks, ghosting behind Harry went to look at where she was in relation to the Potter lad. Emma and Darlene, speaking softly, joined them, and a second tree was laid out. Not too far above Hermione's name, the length of which shocked Harry, a lot of the people had odd symbols next to their names. Harry thought that one of them might be a symbol for a wand as it looked like his focus only in miniature.

"Harry. This is going to be a very delicate conversation. If you want me to go, I will." Emma offered.

"What? I trust you, Mrs Granger. Please. Whatever we are talking about, I want you here." Harry reassured. Hermione's mother was warm; a familiar and comfortable adult. Tonks squeezed his shoulder in support.

Darlene repeated the offer to leave, but Harry patted her hand awkwardly. She was his legal guardian! His godmother. He might not know her well, but he was willing to try and build a better relationship with her. They already had a great start.

Aunt Calladora cleared her throat, "We don't want to upset Sirius with this information right yet. He's been through so much. Some in the family wanted to deal with it closer to school. But there are magicals out there who will try and take advantage of you not being betrothed.

"It is our duty, our matron's duty to the House, to protect you. Protect Hermione." Aunt Calladora stated pointing to her and Augusta.

Darlene took over for a moment "Harry. Dumbledore tried to get you in a specific type of contract with Ginny Weasley."

Harry was glad that Hermione wasn't there, as she would be furious. Sofia and Ginny had been fighting over him at the wedding; he wanted nothing to do with either girl!

"So, it's not too late? I'm not doomed?" Harry asked in a small voice.

"No. But Dumbledore is not to be underestimated here. We are all concerned about his actions, Harry." Darlene did not share that she thought it was HIS minions that had tried to take her out more than Malfoy's goons when Harry was a baby. It wasn't…hopeful news.

"Look. This is just an option. Something that we wanted to talk to you about. We have noticed your relationship with Hermione; it's vibrant. It's real. And she cares about you too. How does it make you feel to think about your future? If Hermione wasn't there, would you be…" Tonks asked gently.

A window suddenly blew out, much to Harry's embarrassment. Karr and Winky showed up for repairs while Darlene gave him a calming draught.

"Sorry. I didn't mean to overreact. Hermione and I, well. We talked about this already. She's it. She's mine. And I am hers. There is no doubt, no debate. She's the one for me. If you are telling me that a betrothal contract will help keep what is mine, well. Mine. Then I am all for it. Truly. But Hermione? What if she says no?"

Emma shook her head. "We talked to her first, and explained the situation. She is not happy with Miss Weasley, but you have to remember that Ginevra was six months old at the time. She clearly had no input into that contract."

Harry stood and went to Emma, "But how does Hermione feel about me?"

Aunt Calladora chuckled, "This wasn't the first time the window was broken this morning, shall we say. I do know that she was willing to fight the world to keep you. If you wanted to be with her."

Harry's heart swelled, and just thinking about her seemed to summon the young witch who flew into Harry's arms.

"Are you sure about this love?" Harry asked.

A sweet kiss was his first answer, followed by a shy "Absolutely!" And Harry and Hermione hugged for a timeless moment.

Tonks suddenly joined the hug, as did Penny.

"All of us here? Not quite the coven we should be. Push your magic here as the young people sign. We're asking for a blessing from Magic on the young ones." Calladora stated.

Winky appeared, disillusioned, but only Harry could feel her there. She participated silently in the ritual as well, pushing her well-wishes, hope for a brighter future for them all. Happiness, health, well-being.

The older witches had never felt such a blessing by magic. This was truly meant to be.

The family blood quill was brought out, cleaned by Winky before offering it first to Hermione then to Harry. He was the only wizard in the room, as was normal for this sort of thing.

"Don't I now owe Dan a million galleons or something?" Harry asked. Dharma Briokz would have gutted him if he hadn't read the contract before signing, but couldn't find that information anywhere.

"Well, the goblins figured something more traditional. And asked for four fine riding horses. To be delivered for Dan's use."

Harry turned to Emma, "You have stables?"

"No, but you do."

The ladies all chuckled, but Harry smiled. Clearly, the Grangers wanted to be able to ride, and they did have the space for it. Then Harry's heart warmed again at the number. Four horses, not just two. Or three.

The Grangers were planning on including Harry. Hugging Hermione again, tears of happiness leaked just a bit from the corners of his eyes.

And he started planning the perfect place to ask her to marry him.

**OO**

Sunday, July 3rd, Grimmauld Place

Percy offered to stay in Paris on Sunday as well, but Penny knew that he wanted to work on Grimmauld with Moody, and help get it into shape.

"It's true. But you could stay…"

Penny offered, "Or I could go with you. Two wands are better than one, after all. And we can ask the elves for help."

The pair arrived at Grimmauld, but went to the front door. Only someone with a death wish would arrive unannounced through the floo to a place that housed a paranoid Alastor Moody… Who also controlled the wards.

"Heh. I thought you two was playing in Paris. So, Black's innocent? Yeah I know I was at the celebration. But juries can be bought, somethin' even a country clod like me wouldn't mentionin' at a fancy dinner. I want to know the truth."

"You didn't get the memories I sent? I'm sorry, here…"

"Nay, I did. But ye both were there. Like to hear your opinions, too."

Things scurried in the corners, and Penny left to dress in a plain tunic rather than risk her nice day dress. Winky showed up to help at Penny's call for aid.

"I need a place to change please. We're going to be working on this house now and then. I might need your help dressing. But I'm not staying here. Nothing is going on!" Penny, flustered, trying to explain herself, but Winky understood.

Winky greened. "Mistress Penny is loving Master Percy. Mistress, if Winky not being too bold. Can you…I mean…"

Penny, now sporting a simple brown tunic that she brewed in, knelt to be on eye level with the little elf.

"What is it, Winky?"

In a snap, Winky sported a miniature version of what Penny wore, only with a smart little cap. She looked adorable.

Penny smiled openly in approval.

Winky began to explain, "Winky, I mean I wants to help Master Percy with his work!" She had been sneaking around doing it, but really wanted to be authorized to do it.

Penny misunderstood, thinking that she was talking about improving the house.

"Oh! Of course! Anytime you aren't busy with Harry, you are very welcome to help Percy! I'll make sure it's okay with Harry, but I'm sure he'll approve."

A quick mirror call, and Winky had her new updated orders.

Oh sure, she knew what Mistress Penny meant. But Winky, like Baxter, sometimes heard what she wanted to hear.

**OO**

Chatting and gossiping about the trial as they worked, the three chose to renovate the ballroom next as the kitchen and dining room were looking pristine. The formal living room had clearly been cleaned up since Kreacher's attack and subsequent demise, but still needed work.

Since everyone was gone from Blackmoor except Clarice, who quickly volunteered her services at Grimmauld as well. Winky asked all of the elves over. Before long, the ballroom was completely pest free, and Percy had helped Moody catch several interesting creatures for his DADA class this coming term.

Winky brought over some salve for the finger bite Moody had gotten from one particularly nasty dust bunny. Just another scar for the scary auror.

It took both Penny and Percy working together to herd the three boggarts they found into some transport boxes, for Moody to take with him. As they had discovered they were great for learning the patronus as long as Harry was available to turn them into dementors.

But Moody had a feeling that, after last year, Harry wouldn't be the only child at Hogwarts with that particular nightmare. Clarice kept her own counsel about administrators allowing those things near children.

In one room, Percy stumbled across a treasure trove of the oddest compilation of items he had ever seen! Some were pristine, and others appeared covered in black mold. One was a lovely tiara that reminded him of pictures of past ancestors' weddings. And the one Darlene had worn at Blackmoor Hall.

"Penny! This looks like something that Grandmother Cedrella wore at her wedding!"

Moody, carrying another item for the loot box, came in and dumped in an ornate dagger, a different clan than Goldrub's this time, he thought it might be Ragnok's himself. That would be an amazing bargaining tool. It appeared to have some kind of fungus on it. He banished the leftover bits from his dragonhide gloves.

"Careful with that - I've only done a brief check on those. That tiara is charmed. Not sure with what. I wouldn't recommend wearing it… or touching any of this stuff really. Not without good gloves. I'm sending the box to Lord Black, as it's likely very valuable. Goblin-made, you know."

"How does a magical dagger collect fungus?" Percy asked, as Moody was finally happy that his gloves were clean.

"Thas no fungus, I dinnin think" Clarice opined, wiping sweat from her brow. She, Penny and Winky were all in the same plain brown tunic. Moody wanted a picture.

"Though I'm savin' it for Sluggy. You'll likely be drinkin' it in some nasty potion, one day. Mark me words." Mad-eye watched the young people's reaction.

Clarice was horrified, Penny smirked.

Percy grimaced, then realized that Moody was pulling his leg…He hoped.

Penny stuck out her tongue to the chuckling of all and the happy group got back to work.

**OO**

Later that day

The four human workers and four elves stood back, later that afternoon and were amazed at just how much they'd accomplished! The rooms they'd tackled were shining like the freshly minted knut they had all received as good luck tokens the day of the wedding.

Now that the downstairs main room was clean, the disrepair was very evident.

Percy, as Deputy Steward, saw the difference in the amount of money that should be coming in versus what was coming in and was hesitant to ask for funds to buy new things. He hoped they had enough to buy good used items. Percy had no clue how much was actually in the household repair fund as he had not been told yet.

"Winky? Do you know of a place where we could get some good quality second hand carpets? In a brighter color scheme? And this wallpaper... Victorian era, nice but this is very dingy. Maybe we could find something similar? But, again, lighter?"

Winky beamed and turned to Karr. "Karr do you havings ex…per…ience?"

Karr beamed and informed everyone, "I had to buy wallpaper and carpets, not to mention new bedding and towels and everything for Blackmoor Hall before Miss Winky came to us. I would be very happy to buy items for this house. Mistress Penny needs to select the new colors, though."

Moody growled, "Mistress Penny? Oh, yeah. House-elves are matriarchal. Listen Karr, you try and foist doilies and lace and stuff on me, in my war room, and la-de-dah flowers on the walls, and you are going to be eatin' your meals through your ears cause you won't have teeth! Got it?"

Karr chuckled. "You can have plain white in the dining room. No flowers. No carpet. Just white. With polished wood floors and everything gleaming brightly."

Moody conceded defeat. "That sounds awful. Penny? Can you choose something reasonable? Remember, I am not your Auntie Calladora. I don't need tea cozies!"

Speaking of Aunt Calladora, Penny took out pictures of Chateau Lumiere –color photographs of the muggle kind. "What about this? It's the same builder."

"Very chic. Classy. I like. What about you MacMillan? Weasley?"

Clarice suggested nervously, "A bit posh for me personally. I prefer simple. But perhaps that color scheme and skip the gold accents everywhere? Go for more elegant than palace?" She'd not been on the job a week and was being asked for her opinion? She reddened at her own audacity.

Percy, who was still studying the pictures and therefore didn't notice his assistant's quandary, intoned (only slightly pompously; the former big-head boy was improving.) "Very nice. But I agree with Clarice." Adding to Clarice's shock. "This is a working place. And we definitely don't need lace, gold or tea cozies." Percy nodded. "If you ladies do get something like that, just make sure that there's no frilly tablecloths or doilies or anything when Moody is using it for his war room."

Penny smiled. "I'll get Harry to pick out a bedroom set for here. After all, with Sirius and Darlene as newlyweds, there are going to be times that you'll want to host Harry here."

"Oh aye. And days of the full moon." Clarice's cheeks blushed again, but Alastor gave her a firm nod.

"Aye. After the to-do with Harry leaving, we'd have to mount a rescue mission to get him back from the Burrow. I don't know what Molly is thinkin, no offense, Weasley."

Clarice shared, "Protective, considers Harry one of her own, and Lord Black isn't known to her. She can't smell it like I can. That man would rip anyone to shreds who tried to hurt Harry. He'd never allow the lad to be hurt again. I'm glad the Heir's learnin' defense from ye, sir."

Moody chuckled. "And the dueling room here is three times bigger than out at my place too. We need to talk to Longbottom. No problem adding him to the wards. Can you get the chaos twins here, secretly? Your mum is blind if she thinks that DE's won't attack her brood just cause they're young. Arthur said yes when I asked him. We don't dare tell Ron – he couldn't keep a secret to save his life from yer mum. You should come when you can too. Keep up yer skills. You and your lady friend. Yer welcome to come too, Clarice. I hate to say it, but hanging around Potter? It's dangerous. I hope that when the next attack comes, we're all ready."

Clarice nodded. "As for the danger? I prefer to accept it and be accepted for meself. Aye, and I can talk in me mother's tongue with ye."

Mad-eye winked in agreement to that. Take a werewolf's natural abilities and add a bit o' training. Oh aye, she'd be yet another person watchin' Harry Potter's back.

Penny had been making a list as they had been talking, and showed it to Winky. "Do you think that we can afford this?"

Winky wrote down an estimate of expenditures that would see all twelve bedrooms completely refurbished, the formal and informal living rooms, the kitchen, dining and pantry restocked completely.

Penny showed the number to Percy, who paled and felt a moment of panic, then realized that that was for everything.

"Wait, you don't have an estimate for the curse-breaking. That one ritual room downstairs needs to be cleansed." Percy pointed out.

Mad-eye barked, "Are ye daft? What do ye think I been doin' all week here? Playing mahjong with the neighbors! I've been doing nothing BUT cleanses."

Clarice left the room to run downstairs and came back up. Her look said it all.

Percy blushed. "I'm sorry to imply that you were less than thorough, sir. But something that dark, used for that long will likely need the 'Hepzibah' cleanse. You know the one, with two curse-breakers and a priest?"

Moody didn't argue, but stomped downstairs himself in a huff. Then came back upstairs looking chagrined.

"Yer right. I did get a bit of dark off, but we need help. Did you know that you could use a healer in place of a priest? And I know just the one we need. Ugh! And I've been on Potter not to allow Death Eaters in the wards. Oh well."

And that is how Bill Weasley, Marius Greengrass and Alastor Moody had a late night 'party' at Grimmauld Place.

And the cost was far less than anyone thought it would be as Lord Black negotiated the return of several goblin-made items back to Goldrub. But not the ritual dagger of the current head of the bank. They were saving that for something special.

This time the crafty goblin made sure to get the secrecy oaths from that blasted profit-savvy BloodRage.

**OO**

Sunday, July 3rd, Banks of the Seine, Place Du Trocadero

The sun was setting, and artists were either packing up or getting out lighting for their painting. The Eiffel Tower rose majestically in the distance. A hired photographer, arranged for by Baxter, was there.

Finally! He and the old elf were starting to get on.

It seemed that even the Heavens blessed this event with a perfect sunset. No rain in sight. Salmon pink, golden rays; the artists were working feverishly to capture the moment even as it faded.

Tonks had picked out the ring, and handed over the clunkiest, ugliest hunk of rock that Harry had ever seen. His look of horror said it all, though not one word of complaint passed his lips. She then handed over the real ring. A lovely thing with a one and a half carat, emerald cut diamond and surrounded by emeralds.

"No evil curses; Sirius will no doubt offer to add some protection charms to it if you ask him."

Harry took Hermione's hand and led her over to an ornate railing, the tower framed in the distance. He went down on one knee.

"Hermione, I love you. Please. Join me on my life's journey? Be mine? Marry me when we are both of age?"

The girl had truly thought that the paperwork was just a ploy to protect Harry. She didn't really think that Harry meant it, though he truly did. He did mean it.

He wanted her in his life! She could feel his magic begging to merge with hers.

Tears springing to her eyes, she reached for him, helping him to his feet.

"Yes! Yes! I'll marry you! Oh Harry!"

The lovely snaps taken by a professional would earn him much gold. He had taken both muggle and magical pictures. And not just from the family, but especially when he was finally allowed to 'leak' them to the press. People would be asking for professional copies all over the country.

**OO**

Sunday, July 3rd,Crouch home

Barty Crouch Sr struggled against the imperius curse now, even more than he had before.

Lucius Malfoy! Barty Jr was covering for him, so now had him dressing properly and going to work to do his job, but without Winky, he couldn't! Not well.

Where was the traitorous elf? With Harry Potter! And where was he staying? The Weasleys! At their hovel, the Burrow. Appropriate name for the warren of weasels that it held.

But Crouch could be as manipulative as Dumbledore when he needed to.

"Ha! You've painted yourself into a corner, my son! And nothing will save your friend Lucius Malfoy now that Fudge has sacked Percy Weasley." Sr laughed.

"What? No! Get him back! I command you! Get him back!" Jr was nearly frothing at the mouth.

As the sweet feeling of floating came over him, the underlying feeling of winning stayed with Sr for a long time.

**OO**

Sunday, July 3rd, Hamptworth Lodge

Lucius Malfoy was nearly kicked in the head by Draco's Abraxan mare when he tripped heading through the barn to his 'secret' cache of gold. His nose was bloodied, and he pulled his wand. Only the stable-elf Nobby stopped him from making a very expensive mistake.

When the order for four regular riding horses, and four Abraxans was made by a foreign client, he was more than happy to sell the moody mare.

What did the man expect with her locked inside a stall or only allowed to run in a paddock without flying everyday!

His gold was hidden in one of the saddle bags that was part of the tack sold with the equines that was never checked.

Magic was making him pay, and pay, and pay for trying to kill a healer.

And the potion that Marius Greengrass provided to heal his nose was clearly rancid and out of date!

And he hadn't targeted her!

**OO**

Monday, July 4th, MoM London

Headline news that could possibly impact every magical nation, around the globe, was very rare in the Magical community. But the fallout from Black's trial was being felt. Not from Black himself, but from the memories shown of the Boy-Who-Lived defeating dementors.

Requests for access to the lad came pouring in. An overwhelmed Crouch went to Fudge requesting his assistant back, and asking for him to contact Potter as his letters were being refused by Ministry post owls.

Fudge spluttered as his perceptions of the Potter boy had been skewed due to his undersecretary and Lucius Malfoy. He didn't want to feed into the "lies" that the boy could do anything like that.

Dolores somehow got ahold of a copy of the report from Weasley about the dementors at Hogwarts that had been sent to Bones. Why would Bones share it with his undersecretary? Ugh. What a mess!

What was he going to do?

Skeeter knew what she was going to do.

**OO**

Monday, July 4th Daily Prophet

While other papers around the world declared Harry Potter a hero, and started clamoring for his help, not everyone received the news well. Rita Skeeter had her own unique version.

Daily Prophet

Harry Potter Murders Ministry Workers

'Let me first send my thanks to the healers who helped me recover after the brutal attack upon my person at the trial of Sirius Black.

'I was so grateful to all of the readers who sent get-well wishes and gifts. Such an outpouring has touched me greatly. I had to leave my sickbed as duty trumpeted, in order to share this latest travesty with you my loyal readers.

'It is my sad duty to inform the public that once again, we have an incipient Dark Lord in our midst. It has come to my attention that Harry Potter has killed over one hundred servants of the Ministry! And what did the head of the DMLE do when this was reported?

'She offered to send flowers of condolence to one of the highest ranking people in the Ministry itself for the loss of family members!

'An unnamed highly placed Ministry worker complained to this reporter that even the Head of the DMLE was being ordered to look the other way over this incident. Fear of the Boy-Who-Lived-to-Kill perhaps?

'My friends, are we going to put up with this attention-seeking boy who is rumored to have been secretly associated with Sirius Black? And what is Amelia Bones going to do about him?

'Serious Onion Black had long been seen swanning in and out of the Ministry of Magic in Paris without Minister Delacurt raising the alarm or even attempting to capture him. And this was before the French gave Black the dog and pony show of a trial. Of course, rumor has it that Mr Black is having an affair with the creature that the Minister married. Veela, you know.

'We've all heard how Black was exonerated. Gold is such a lovely color in France; Blue and Gold are in their heraldry, after all, so they honor it.

'I will fight for justice for every single Ministry worker that was tragically slain by an out of control 'Boy-Who-Lived'! Perhaps his new title should be 'Teen-in-Azkaban'.'

'Your humble reporter: Rita Skeeter'

**OO**

Chateau Lumiere

While Darlene and Sirius took care of some business before they left on holiday, Harry was spending some quality time, alone, with his Aunt Calladora.

Tonks was somewhere in Paris with Shacklebolt buying something for the trip to Japan. But Harry was ready, packed, and completely safe as long as he stayed inside the wards.

He had been told not to floo or take the carriage anywhere without Tonks and Shack.

This time, Kingsley had taken him on a tour of the property, and explained that he was better protected inside, and offered a choice of going shopping with Tonks or staying there. Harry patted the man's shoulder sadly, and wished him well. But he'd rather go visit Dan in his dental office than go shopping ever again with Tonks. What was it about her and shoes? And since as long as it got CLOSE to her size, everything fit?

She was a witch! Had she never heard of transfiguration. And no, he wasn't asking again. Just no, no. At least she hadn't gotten pictures of him in that cheerleading skirt.

That would have been embarrassing!

Instead, Harry snuck him a few coins and asked him to pick up a few local treats. "And thank you auror. I hope you have a good time."

This time, he didn't prank him. Well, not much. But of course he checked, saw the American style cowboy boots and kept them.

**OO**

Aunt Calladora reread Skeeter's article, "She certainly has a wonderful sense of humor, doesn't she? But I do wonder if she hasn't at least one enemy. I don't think it was an accident that Miss Skeeter was injured last Friday. Goodness! I do believe that she was supposed to perish along with our beloved Lord Black."

"They don't know how she got past security. Delacour's people are breathing fire, especially after all of the recent attacks." Harry shared.

Calladora tutted, and tried to change subjects, "Do you know how to play mahjong, my dear one? We used to play it as children in China. My father was an inventor, an investor, and world traveler. We didn't just stay in Britain when I was a child. I would love to teach you, if you would like to learn."

Harry picked up several pieces, "Woah! These are beautiful!"

"Don't let your new friend Luna know, but these are made from unicorn horn and different exotic woods and so forth."

"How do you play? I've never seen this game at the Weasleys."

Auntie Calladora said nothing about Arthur's brood. Molly was clearly rebelling from her Prewitt family in going completely the other way from how she was raised.

Instead of comportment and manners, she taught that nothing is important about societal expectations in regards to bowing and scraping. Molly never curtseyed to anyone!

Her Aunt Muriel was a dragon and unpleasant to Molly and her brothers growing up. She'd no right to criticize them so harshly. And Molly refused to foist those societal norms on her own children. How Percy learned to fit in with purebloods as well as he did...was that Percy rebelling against his mother's leanings?

Harry and Calladora had noticed that the twins did mimic the prefect in terms of bowing and nodding. But they did it in a lighthearted way that would cause no offense.

Coming back from her musings, the elderly witch shared, "I wouldn't imagine that the Weasleys would have a game that only a maximum of four could play. Let me explain the groupings. Here are some of the pieces…" As the ancient lady explained the intricacies of this exotic game.

**OO**

Monday, July 4th, Gringotts, Paris Morning meeting

Lord Black appeared as an avenging angel for a moment: one from goblin legend.

It wasn't Rita Skeeter's article that had Sirius nearly breathing fire. No. It was the information on offer from the goblins.

First up was concrete evidence against Lucius Malfoy: The nostros that were exchanged for leprechaun gold. Anyone could have made that mistake. At least when they started disappearing, one of the human workers had the presence of mind to duplicate several coins exactly. This preserved the fingerprints if not the actual disappearing gold.

Then there were the recovered nostros. Because of the cleansing process in gold exchange, the fingerprints on the coins in the captured attackers pockets had only a few sets of fingerprints: The leader, the minion and again, Lucius Malfoy.

Now the most recent criminal activity: the assassination attempt at Sirius Black's trial, and how if it had not been thwarted, the toxic gas could have killed everyone in a fifteen foot radius around the discovered vial.

This would have meant both Lord and Lady Black, and had he been allowed to come, Heir Black as well. Not everything needed a magical signature for prosecution. Lucius Malfoy was involved in each criminal activity. The proof was definitive.

Spurnik had met with Sirius, Lord Black and his lady wife in Paris along with Dharma Briokz concerning House Potter business, and would later meet with Goldrub for House Black business. The new Lady Black was very beautiful and had kept her own counsel during the exchange.

"Malfoy is dead! He might be walking now, but he tried to kill my godson, maybe twice! And my lady wife last Friday! The coward doesn't dare face me himself, so he uses plots and plans and puppets." Sirius shouted, looking completely berserk.

Concerned, his new wife asked permission and fed him a potion.

Spurnik called Goldrub on his mirror to fill him in on the situation and ask for help. The mirrors were a gift from the family in gratitude and friendship.

Goldrub slapped the side of his face, Ɠ "We have all of these Black House rules, and here we are! Not following them for the Lord of the House! I have the intelligence of a deformed 'shroom.

Spurnik scoffed, Ɠ "No, perhaps acting more hu-mon than you should."Ɠ

Goldrub shared, Ɠ "The healer will be there soon. I'm going to check on a few things and join you presently.

A goblin healer came in, saw Healer Fenwich and started to leave.

Ɠ "No. Stay. Please! I think this has happened before."Ɠ Darlene shared. She turned to Spurnik, Ɠ "I am sorry I didn't tell you that I was learning Goblin with Harry. Winky, our House elf is teaching us. I don't know why, but I seem to have a gift. This week being immersed in it? Something about the caverns? I don't know, but I apologize for my rudeness in not letting you know immediately. I just want to take care of my mate."Ɠ

Goldrub entered part way through Darlene's explanation/apology. "I see that you are learning our tongue, how clever of you."

Darlene's mind was racing, and speaking rapidly slipping into French, "We know that Lucius is a Death Eater. Why is Sirius reacting so…explosively? Why is he acting like this?

"And, at the same time, why would Sirius run off after the rat instead of securing Harry with me first? Something was and still is very wrong here."

The goblin healer put away her diagnostic orb, now full of greasy black smoke. Ɠ"Compulsion. Nasty one too. Needs a curse-breaker. I know several good…

Darlene interrupted, Ɠ"Bill Weasley. I don't care what it costs."Ɠ Darlene switched to English, and focused on Sirius, "Revenge in France will earn you the Death Penalty. Then your godson and I will be left without a protector. I need you, husband."

Goblins would have taken advantage of anyone else, but the godmother of the Boy-Who-Provided-Basilisk-Steaks was going to get a special deal.

Goldrub suggested one more thing, Ɠ"Compulsion spells to last this long? I have a feeling I know who is behind it. My lady, I suggest you be diagnosed as well.

Ɠ"What? Me? I'm fine! I'm not the one who needs tending to! Leave me be!"Ɠ Darlene commanded imperiously, reminding the goblins of the missing and declared dead Béatrice Beauharnais, wife of the Duke of Orléans. This witch's mother's mother.

The healer turned at Goldrub's secret sign, and the lady was unconscious.

"Please forgive me, Lord Black, but I couldn't rely on her cooperation." the healer explained. A new orb was brought out, and she too had mist, just not as dark or thick, but Sirius knew that they were both in trouble. Deep trouble.

Bill Weasley was indeed summoned and brought up to speed. Time magic. He was convinced that he was going to see several versions of himself someday and invite them all for a goblin ale.

The results of Sirius' scan, showing him a victim of a revenge compulsion, wound up being reported to several people. And the ritual mostly removed his primal rage.

The results of Darlene's scan was a compulsion to keep her away from Britain that had mostly waned. She had successfully fought it off after five or so years, but it did make her feel that pursuing justice for Sirius was something to do 'tomorrow'.

Spurnik started to suggest, "I do not wish to anger either of you, but I do want to offer our services to Heir Potter…"

"Heir Black. Seniority!" Goldrub snapped.

Spurnik rattled his dagger and continued, "The young man has been in and out of trials since he was still in nappies. Has he had a deep health scan recently? If not, we have excellent facilities here. We have the time and space right now to initiate a scan."

Sirius and Goldrub shared a guilty look. They had talked about abusive muggles, and Darlene had only recently healed his eyes.

"I concur with your conclusions. My heir is visiting my auntie. Shall I bring him in? Should he be warned that this might hurt?" Sirius' mother was notorious for lying about medical procedures.

The healer nodded, "The scan will be painless, but the treatment might not be. And please do. We have a portkey pad, or there's a floo, the carriage entrance is at…"

Sirius pulled out his mirror, "Pup?..." Harry's face appeared. "We need you at the bank. Would you like to floo or…"

Harry popped in. Sirius still couldn't figure out how his apparition was so silent.

Spurnik was aghast, "The wards? The beautiful wards? You…"

"Uh oh? Did I hurt your wards? I could hire Bill to fix them if you want."

The goblin face palmed. "Heir Potter…"

"Black!" Goldrub barked.

"You are not going to be eating with your mate this evening if you keep DOING that!" Spurnik barked and scowled at his long-time friend, announcing through clenched teeth, "We'll deal with the young unnamed mage later. For now, he should attend this kind healer."

Darlene was revived and the situation explained. She'd likely have to be knocked unconscious again for the ritual. Otherwise she would fight it. Lord Black too. But the goblin healer wanted her awake to talk about their child.

"Do you need my records of what healing I have done for Harry?"

The goblin smiled, "Always nice working with other healers. But please, do allow him to be treated with only Lord Black in attendance. Your magic will act to protect him. He is your son already."

**OO**

Before taking him in for the ritual, Harry insisted on calling Hermione on the mirror.

He fingered the catalog. Most of the items were fairly symmetrical, so showing them over the mirror would be fine. The mirror image would be the same as seeing it. Well, mostly.

"Hey Hermione, do you know that we have over sixteen hundred different pieces of jewelry in the Black vault? Can you imagine if Trelawny had access to it all? Diadems and pendants and crystals and all sorts of beaded things. Some very nice, elegant. Others, well. Picture what Augusta's vulture would want to wear to the next swa-ray as Moody calls them."

"Harry? What's wrong? You've told me about the catalog. No wait. Penny did. And Darlene. Clarice might have. Percy too, now that I think about it."

Harry put it down, all attempts at subterfuge gone. "Hermione? They're going to…I need you. Can you come? I could send Winky or something."

She was soon there, going through the front doors and being escorted by Sage. Harry and Hermione couldn't figure out how the goblins did that. Remus had been in a meeting one minute with Spurnik, and was there in Paris to meet Sirius just a short time later.

Did they have super-carts? Underground? Under the chunnel, like bullet trains?

Hermione ran to him and held him tightly. She knew, somehow, that he was afraid. Of what, she didn't know. But he had been there for her, in the darkness and despair of being frozen, unable to move. Without him reading to her, and visiting her every day, she would have lost her mind after being petrified by the basilisk.

She tightly held his hand as the healer came into the room. "You'll need to leave while he changes, little witch, but then I want you here. During the procedure, if you need to speak, please try to keep it soft. And you, young magus, please do not move. I never did get your name out of your account managers. They were throwing daggers and swearing, and acting like it was someone's birthday celebration."

"Harry Potter, ma'am. Nice to meet you, healer." Harry stood and bowed, and Hermione curtseyed. But, as in the propriety of the goblin culture, she kept her name to herself.

Then Sage and Hermione went out into the hall.

"You should think of a different name to go by." The goblin guard suggested while Harry prepared himself.

"What makes you think that Hermione is my first name?"

The door opened, and Hermione went to his side. Sage was stunned, and she could smell deceit in humons. It was HER talent, and why she was selected to be a guard despite being female.

The girl was not lying!

Holding the young wizard's hand, and whispering a story of some helpful creatures called brownies that fixed things and helped a poor, struggling family that always left them treats, no matter how little they had, Hermione distracted the boy from the pain that he was about to endure.

Fixing the past; pain served to return him to health from the pain that he had already endured.

**OO**

A/N:Recommended Story: your story recommendation here!

A/N:Recommended Story from our friend cshella Rebellion at Hogwarts. By Kevin1984 (incomplete)

Thank you cshella for your kind reviews and your story rec's!

A/N: Recommended Story from our new friend apls79 (thank you!) who recommended a trio of stories: this one is When Fate intervened by LordVishnu

Your help is appreciated! And thanks again to demonboy121986 who recommended that Kingsley go to work in a pink unicorn onesie. Too adorable a thought not to use.

**OO**

ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language