A/N: Hey everyone! Here's the next chapter! Thanks for the lovely reviews and to the lonely person who thinks my precious demigods suck ass, you should watch your mail over the next couple weeks.... Hehehe.... don't worry, Alanna, Xander, I still love you. Cover your eyes children and pay no mind to the loser defaming your names. Oh and why didn't anyone like and therefore comment on the prank? I spent so much time planning that and now, sniff it wasn't appreciated like it should have been. Anyway, I got the idea from the Disney movie Anastasia, you know, Rasputin having those winged imps doing his bidding and all.
I LOVE YOU PITCHIC05!!!!!!!! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!! Just so everyone knows, she gave me the end of chapter 4 and now it's updated so anyone who didn't read the end of chapter 4 go reread it! Thank you everyone who got me the chapters. You guys are the best!
Chapter 25
At ten thirty a.m. the next morning, Harry and Draco put the finishing touches on the binding circle in the center of the Room of Requirement. Severus and Lily watched them avidly, bickering quietly from their chairs.
"I still say they should have placed the proper incantations while outside the circle, not inside," Severus argued, drawing his nephew's and godson's attention.
"For the last time, Sev, that's why the circle exploded on you and sent you flying forty feet. I don't want my son or his soul mate to go flying out a window. I can't imagine HOW I'd explain that one to the Headmaster." Severus chuckled, putting his feet up.
"Oh, I can see it perfectly," he laughed. "Oh, Headmaster, I have no IDEA how that enormous hole appeared in the castle wall! It just happened ALL by ITSELF!!!" he exclaimed dramatically in a poor falsetto imitation of Lily, throwing his hand over his heart. Lily snickered and elbowed him in the ribs and they collapsed, laughing hysterically.
"Do you two MIND?" Harry snapped irritably. "Do you WANT us to blow up the circle?" He and Draco stood just inside the shimmery circle painted on the floor. Energy rose from the floor, making a slightly opaque wall that stood about chest high.
Lily and Severus sat up, still giggling. "Sorry, love," Lily gasped, holding her sides. "I'm having a blond moment."
"Hey!" yelped Draco angrily. "I resemble that remark!"
Lily and Severus turned to each other, identical smirks on their faces. "And your point is?" they asked in unison.
Draco sniffed angrily. "I'll have you know that I'm deeply offended by that remark," he replied with wounded dignity.
Harry affectionately patted him on the head. "It's ok, Draco. I love you just the way you are," he cooed gently, smirking. Draco visibly relaxed and smiled his cheeks tingeing red. "In fact," Harry continued, "it's your vapidness that drew me to you in the first place. Never change."
Draco scowled and pouted. "That's the last straw! You're sleeping on the couch tonight!"
Harry pouted in mock disbelief. "You wouldn't!" he accused.
"Oh, watch me, Harold Potter."
Harry smirked. "It's not like we do anything anyway..." he trailed off, earning himself a murderous glare from his soul mate and outright gales of laughter from his mother and uncle.
"Well, if it means that little to you," Draco said with a sniff. He haughtily strode from the circle and out the door, almost slamming into Ginny on his way out. She stared at the three remaining people in the room, all hysterical with laughter, and rolled her eyes, walking after Draco.
She found him standing a corridor away, snickering softly to himself. "Oh, do I wait for them to come after me or do I go back in all wounded? Vapidness indeed, I'll show them vapid!"
"Um, Draco, are you all right?" Ginny asked, resting a hand on his shoulder.
"Oh, just fine, Ginny, just fine." Draco turned and walked back towards the Room of Requirement, Ginny following resolutely. They strode back into the room, to see a sobered Lily and Severus sitting on one couch, and a half asleep Harry sitting on the floor in front of his mother, who was playing with his hair.
Ginny stared at him bemusedly. "Hey, Harry, Mrs. Potter, Uncle Sev, what're you doing in here?" Harry jumped.
"Um, hi, Ginny. We- we're setting up," he finished, staring at Draco. You weren't supposed to get her until AFTER McKnight showed up, he reminded Draco sulkily.
She followed me in. What's a vapid blond to do? Draco asked, smirking and crossing his arms.
Harry sighed.
"What are you setting up?" Ginny asked curiously. She stared at the circle, her eyes widening. "The Binding Circle! But, I thought- When where you going to tell me?" she demanded, throwing herself at Harry and summoning Draco in the same instant. Draco went flying through the air, his expression a mixture of shock and horror, as he crashed into Harry and Ginny, throwing them against the couch.
"OOOOF!" Ginny, can't- breathe," gasped Harry and Draco at the same time. Ginny giggled and relaxed her hold.
"Gin, we were going to surprise you after- OH shit! Mum, what time is it?" Harry gasped, staring entreatingly up at his mother.
"It's ten fifty eight, why?" Lily asked, frowning.
"OHMYGOD! Mr. McKnight's gonna be here any minute!" Harry scrambled to his feet and Apparated to the Great Hall.
Draco and Lily stared at each other in surprise. Finally, Draco stood up, cocking an eyebrow. "And why does Harry need a lawyer?"
Harry appeared in the middle of the Great Hall and anxiously smoothed his shirt. Why the hell did I wear black mesh on today of all days? he wondered, staring down at his clothing with trepidation. A loud thump coming from the fireplace behind Dumbledore's chair had him turning towards the noise, his questionable attire already forgotten as he hurried up to the fireplace.
Gareth McKnight stood up and straightened out his robes. "Bloody god DAMN Floo, made just to antagonize me!" he muttered. Harry stifled a chuckle.
"Mr. McKnight?" he called brightly, walking forward. The older man turned.
"Ah, Lord Potter!" he smiled, walking forward and extending his hand. Harry instantly shook his hand, grinning as well.
"Mr. McKnight, thank you for coming on such a short notice. We'll have to go to the Room of Requirement, as I want the binding ceremony to be witnessed properly." Dad, I need you in the Room of Requirement.
He felt his father look up from the book he was reading in his quarters, a smirk on his face. Ok, Harry. He felt James Apparate straight to the Room of Requirement and grinned.
Turning, he led the older wizard through the halls and up the stairs, at last coming to portrait of Bartholomew the Barmy. Walking past it three times, the door appeared and he strode through, McKnight following behind him.
"Mum, Dad, you know Mr. McKnight. Mr. McKnight, these are-"
"Your parents, Lily and James," McKnight gasped, pushing past Harry and enveloping James and then Lily in massive bear hugs. "How- What- Why- Merlin!" he exclaimed, amazed.
They sat on the couch, and James and Lily both hastened to tell their friend and lawyer exactly what had happened to them and how they had returned. Harry, Draco and Ginny reviewed the parts of the Binding Ritual, making sure nothing had been left out. By the time they were finished, it was noon and everyone was feeling a bit hungry.
Dobby? called Harry, mentally searching for the hyperactive house elf.
Dobby appeared suddenly. "Yes, Master Harry Potter? What can Dobby do for Harry Potter?" he asked, bubbling over with excitement.
"Could you bring us some lunch? What's on the menu for today?" Harry asked politely.
Dobby shook with excitement. "Master Harry Potter can have whatever he wants, sir!" he squealed happily.
Harry looked around with amusement. "You guys have any ideas?" he asked with a grin.
"Simple, like sandwiches?" Ginny suggested. Her face brightened. "Oh and I want a plate of warm chocolate chip cookies and brownies and a tall glass of milk, is that all right?" she asked Dobby in a rush.
How much sugar has she had today? Draco asked Harry privately.
Too much is NEVER enough! Ginny yelled, bouncing on her seat.
Does that answer your question? Harry asked, rolling his eyes. Dobby left, muttering about making the best lunch for Master Harry Potter.
McKnight stared at them in confusion. "Am I missing something?" he asked, shaking his head.
"Oops, sorry. We're all telepaths and what you missed was the verification that my sister has had WAY too much sugar," Harry explained sagely.
McKnight just shook his head. "Whatever."
Dobby returned with a whole tray full of sandwiches and a mountain of cookies, as well as a gallon of milk and seven glasses, enough for everyone. As soon as they had finished eating, Harry stood up, helping Draco and Ginny to their feet. "It's time, Gin, Draco. Let's do this."
Harry and Draco each grabbed one of Ginny's hands, leading her to the circle. Still holding fast to her hands, they stood just on the edge, calling the magic of the circle around them. They each produced a sharp knife, ready to slash across their palms, but the skin sprang apart magically, to their surprise and consternation. A light breeze picked up in the room as the circle once again sprang into life, and the other four occupants in the room tensed.
"You know, Lily, I don't recall the circle actually forming a physical barrier when we blood bonded," Severus stated seriously. He turned to her, worried. "Are you sure this will be all right?"
Lily looked back at him with trepidation and worry. "I don't know, Sev, I don't know. The only thing I can think of is that all three of them know of their full powers and their abilities are coming into play for this."
"I hope you're right, Lily." They turned back and prepared to witness their son/nephew and future son-in-law/ godson bind themselves as family to Ginny.
Harry, Draco and Ginny began, the two young men much more confident than their soon to be sister.
"Blood to blood," they began, and Severus and Lily watched in silence as their powers suddenly sprang into life, the forest green, icy blue and scarlet/gold whipped around the respective immortals.
"I bind thee to me.
Heart to heart,
You are my family."
Ginny fell silent, her eyes glowing pure gold. Draco and Harry continued their eyes both glowing pure silver.
"Always and forever
I bind myself to you."
At that first line uttered by the two, Harry and Draco's powers merged completely, making them glow silver and white. They continued, oblivious to the changes that were worrying the four adults in the room.
"Through thick and thin
I bind myself to you. Your brother and protector,"
they chanted, and Ginny's aura started to bleed two different colors on top of her scarlet and gold: forest green and icy blue. The extra colors swirled in and out of her aura, forming candy cane stripes.
Severus turned to an equally shaken Lily. "That DEFINATELY didn't happen when we blood bonded," he remarked in an undertone, clearly worried. She just stared back at him, her eyes dark with concern.
"I bind myself to you.
One blood, one family
I bind myself to you."
A strong wind whipped around, emanating from the three of them, blowing the tapestries from the walls and books from the shelves. Lily threw a slight shield around her, James, Severus and Gareth McKnight just in case. As she did that, the walls began to hum with power and vibrate.
"What's going on???!!?!!?" demanded McKnight as he gripped the armrests of his chair hard enough to turn his knuckles white. "Why are they radiating so much power?"
"Watch," Lily advised her face a stony mask.
Harry and Draco fell silent and Ginny took up the chant, the wind and hum growing in intensity with every word.
"I take you as my brothers," she began, and incandescent sparkles filled the air, slowly spiraling towards the three of them and the Binding Circle.
"I bind myself to you.
I welcome you as family
I bind myself to you.
I take the Potter and Malfoy name
I bind myself to you.
My family forever
I bind myself to you."
The sparkles solidified around them, making them difficult to see. Lily and James gasped. "Lily is that-" he broke off, staring at his son, son's soul mate, and now daughter in wonder.
"Oh my- IT IS!" Lily exclaimed, her hand flying over her mouth. She gasped and tears started to fall down her cheeks. "Oh wow, I didn't know She'd be here." They solidified the shield, so McKnight wouldn't explode from the sheer power ripping through the room.
Harry, Ginny and Draco continued, oblivious to everything going on around them.
"Blood to blood,
I bind thee to me.
Heart to heart
You are my family."
They finished, as the wind escalated to impossible speeds. They finally noticed the wind, the humming stones and the spectacular colors surrounding the three of them and gazed in wonder, confused.
Lily was the first to speak. "So witnessed, so mote it be," she stated authoritatively.
James and Severus followed in unison. "So witnessed, so mote it be."
McKnight finished, still confused. "So witnessed, so mote it be!"
A booming, wonderful, beautiful voice echoed him. "SO WITNESSED, SO MOTE IT BE!" Harry, Draco and Ginny gaped as the sparkles solidified even further into a human form, and then features molded onto the face. The form stood in the center of the Circle and held Her arms out.
Harry, Draco and Ginny flew into Her arms, tears of joy streaming down their faces. "Mother," they managed to gasp out. Lily, James and Severus stood up and left the shield and crowded against the edge of the Circle, their faces transfixed.
"MY CHILDREN, MY LOVES, YOUR BINDING WILL ONLY MAKE YOU STRONGER. I GIVE THIS FAMILY," She opened her arms and gaze to include Lily, James and Severus in the word 'family', "MY BLESSING AND PROTECTION AND JOY THAT YOU HAVE FOUND EACH OTHER. STAY TOGETHER AND YOU WITH PREVAIL."
The form, with one last hug, slowly dissipated, leaving everyone with a sense of loss.
"All right, what was that?" Gareth McKnight demanded, still completely confused. "Who was that?"
"Gareth, you remember when we said that being friends with us would lead to many weird happenings?" James asked, slinging his arm around the confused mortal's shoulders.
"Oh, is this one of those times?" McKnight asked.
"Yes. That was God, and She blessed the blood bond. Do you want any more of an explanation?" Lily asked.
McKnight stared at them. "I think that might have been too much as it was," he mumbled.
Harry laughed. "Mr. McKnight, could you get the paperwork out?" he asked, down to business.
McKnight gladly pulled out his satchel, getting back to familiar ground. "Of course, Young Lord Potter. Here are the documents you requested." He handed Harry a stack of papers almost three inches high.
Harry leafed through them, scanning the pages. "And everything is in order?" he asked.
Lily and James stared at him suspiciously as he handed two documents to each of them. "Mum, Dad, sign these," he instructed, handing three documents to Ginny and six to Draco. "You two need to sign and read those."
Lily gave a whoop of joy and wrapped her son in a bear hug. "James, he's reinstating us as his primary guardians, along with Sirius and Severus!!!! And, he's reinstating us as co owners of the Potter Fortune!" James grinned and ruffled Harry's hair.
"That's not all he's doing," Draco stated, staring at Harry in shock. "He's added me-"
Ginny interrupted. "And me!"
"- to have access to any and all Vaults at any time. Harry are you sure about this?" Draco asked a smile ghosting across his face.
Harry shrugged. "You're my soul mate. As soon as we complete the bond, we're as good as married."
Draco gulped and gave a weak smile. "I hadn't thought of it that way."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Yeah, figures." He bent over the stack of forms left in his possession and began signing documents.
Lily looked at him curiously. "What are those?" she asked.
"Well, you know how Sirius fell through the Veil?" Harry asked absently.
"Yeah, that's one of two reasons why we're going in there!" James answered.
"Well, they thought he was dead so they read his will and everything," Harry answered, signing the last document. "There, it's official. All I need is Draco to sign here and it'll be done. You really don't want Black Manor, do you?" he asked his soul mate.
Draco snickered and took the quill. "No one has lived there in over twenty years. Like hell I'd EVER set foot in it." he signed on the dotted line.
"Harry, what are you doing?" Lily demanded.
"Oh, nothing just remade the Black Fortune and put the titles to Black Manor and the Black Summer Villa in France back to Siri's name. I hope you don't mind."
James jumped into the bear hung and almost squeezed the life out of his son. "Harry, have I told you yet today how much I love you?" he asked, grinning like a madman.
Severus snickered quietly. "He's giving away YOUR money, Potter."
"Three words, Snape: Thirty Billion Galleons." Severus stared at Harry and his parents, realizing the enormity of that amount.
That wouldn't even make a dent in that, Severus mused quietly.
Duh, that's why I did it. I've got the cash to spare and Siri isn't dead, so it isn't a problem. Harry handed the documents back to McKnight. "Could you file the recreation of Sirius's bank account and properties before you turn control over to my parents?" Harry asked.
"Sure, Young-"
"Harry, please. Just Harry." Harry interrupted, getting sick of the 'Lord' crap.
"Of course Harry." McKnight packed his satchel, their business finished. "As much as I would love to stay longer and catch up with you two," the lawyer nodded to James and Lily, "I have an appointment in an hour with the Tokyo representatives of our firm."
James and Lily led him back to the Great Hall, Harry, Draco, Ginny, and Severus following behind them.
Later on that night, Claudette and Lucas arrived along with two Vampire and two Drow advisors. As soon as they had exchanged pleasantries with Alanna and Xander and had been shown to their rooms, Elei'n and Anowyn had arrived, along with four Elvin counselors of their own. They were shown to their rooms as well.
Harry quickly approached Alanna. "I don't mean to be rude, but why's everyone here? Did I miss something?"
Alanna walked forward, welcoming Xavier and Samantha, the Lukoi and Lupa of the Werewolves, and, surprisingly, Argonne Lupa, the Slytherin first year. Harry showed them to the rooms that had been prepared for them, thinking furiously. "Argonne, why are you back here so soon?" he asked as they walked down the hallway.
"These are my grandparents," she answered simply. "They are my guardians also since my parents died."
As soon as he had gotten back, Alanna pulled him aside. "We're now in the planning stage," she whispered. He gaped at her and walked back over to the Entrance, schooling his features into a small smile.
Tatyana and Orion strode through the door, four Veela trailing behind them. Rowan showed them to their rooms, chatting pleasantly the entire way.
Byron and Havanna, the Dragonkin Emperor and Empress, landed on the front lawn and that point. Alanna walked outside to greet them, and returned inside with a young man who looked suspiciously like an exact combination of Alanna and Xander. He was accompanies be a young woman with fire red hair.
Lorien and Shareena arrived last, flying directly into the Entrance and landing lightly. They were followed by four of their entourage. Harry secretly doubted that they were counselors of any kind, particularly as one kept fixing Shareena's train and another kept trying to smooth Lorien's hair. Alanna sighed as she walked them to their rooms, muttering mentally, I TOLD them to bring trustworthy advisors and who do they bring? Their personal groomers!
Harry snickered and they all Apparated to their respective quarters, ready to go to sleep. "So, Draco, am I still sleeping on the couch?" Harry teased as he lay down on his bed.
Draco huffed, and turned around, grinning. "Nope, cuz vapid blondes have short attention spans." Happily, Draco crawled into bed next to Harry and they wrapped their arms and minds around each other, ensuring peaceful dreams.
The next morning, everyone woke early, anxious to start the meetings and planning. Harry, Draco, Ginny, Emily, Eric, Blaise, Seamus, Neville, and Luna all arrived in the Great Hall together, sitting at their usual place. To their surprise, EVERYONE joined them, from the other demigods to even the teachers. Dumbledore himself forgo the comfort of the Teacher's table, his eyes twinkling madly. One by one, the Order of the Phoenix members trickled into the Hall and took seats around the Slytherin Tables as well.
As soon as everyone was seated, Alanna stood up. "All right, settle down everyone. I promise to make this as quick and painless as possible. Now then- HEY! We're missing some important people!"
At that, the doors flew open and eleven men strode through, all in U.S. Military fatigues. Emily stood up, grinning. "DADDY!!" she shrieked and ran to the doors. "YOU MADE IT!!!!!!!" The lead man grabbed her around the waist and slung her into his arms.
"Of course I made it, Emily. We're training everyone, so we are rather important," the tall stranger said with a grin. He put her back down and she took his hand, pulling him to the table.
Alanna walked over. "Commander George, thank you for taking time out of your schedule to talk to us and help us with our planning." She and the Commander shook hands.
"No problem, Alanna. I'm only glad we can help you, although I have no idea how our knowledge is of any relevance." With a hand motion, the newcomers walked over to the table and sat down, intermingling amongst the already seated people.
"You see, Commander George, while we are all very powerful, we've never fought a battle on such a large scale before, much less going in without being detected to do a rapid extrication. All the nations you see here are either peaceful or united against one common enemy. Battles don't happen very often in the magical world and when they do, they're short, bloody, and over almost before we know it," Claudette stated simply. "I think I speak for all of us when I say that you have the expertise here, not us." A rush of nods and murmurs ran up and down the table.
Even Dumbledore was forced to agree with her statements. "While we have had issues with Voldemort here in Britain, he's one man and his followers are few. We only really know how to clean up after his messes, not plan a full scale attack," he conceded from his seat next to McGonagall.
"All right, then what do we have to work with?" Commander George asked thoughtfully.
Claudette thought for a minute. "You have three hundred of my best Drow and three hundred fifty Vampires."
Lorien did some quick calculations. "You have two hundred and fifty of the Fae."
Byron went next. "You have as many of the Dragons as you need."
Commander George raised a hand. "Um, not to be rude or anything, but how do we train Dragons in human maneuvers?"
Byron sat there, stumped. Harry raised a hand. "Well, if Emperor Byron can change form, then can't the other Dragons?"
Byron grinned. "Not exactly, Harry. I'm a full Demigod, just remaining immortal on earth. Havanna is as well. We can shift, but our children cannot."
Harry put his hand back down. "Oh."
Alanna thought for a minute. "Well, they can do attack formations and some of the demons are that large, so it should work out. We'll think of something."
Tatyana spoke up. "You have four hundred Veela at your disposal."
Xavier leaned his head down to his granddaughter. She whispered something in his ear and he nodded. "My Heir has a valid point. How are we going to be trained? Pledging people is all and good, but let's be realistic here. How do you plan on getting all of us trained?"
Commander George sat back and thought. "Well, I could call for more SEAL teams. We aren't the only one, you know. There are at least fifty more."
"So we'd get a SEAL team per nation?" Anowyn asked.
"As well as two of our own so that we can fine tune powers and such," Alanna stated simply.
Elei'n's eyes widened. "All right, then, I pledge four hundred of my best to be trained."
Xavier spoke up again. "And I four hundred as well."
"All right, that settles that. Now, onto the planning." Alanna gestured to the Vampires, Drow and Werewolves to begin.
Claudette's four Advisors pulled out maps, diagrams, and twelve scale models of the different worlds. The werewolves brought out models, diagrams and reports on each kind of Demon, Wraith, and prototypes Clautius had created or was thinking of creating. Outlined in the reports were powers, abilities, and anything noteworthy of their foes.
They spent several hours going over the exact layout of the planets, as well as where Laurel was being kept, as well as Sirius's location at any given moment. Harry and his friends paid rapt attention, regardless of the disapproving looks the Order members and other teachers, Severus and Remus not included, shot their way every other sentence.
"Alanna, not to interrupt or anything, but why are the children here?" Professor Sprout finally asked about four hours into the planning.
"Because we have a right to know what is going on!" Seamus yelled, his face contorted in an angry sneer.
"You're sixteen! What are you going to contribute, Mr. Finnegan?" McGonagall asked crossly.
"ENOUGH!" Alanna yelled, extremely angry. She stood up, going into lecture mode. "Age doesn't matter. At this point, any help or insight is welcome! Harry and Draco are sixteen and they are going to play an integral part of what is going on! Even if the others do not participate in the all out assault, they are going to be indispensable for healing and anything else we can think of!"
Harry snickered. Draco elbowed him, but he kept laughing, until he was doubled over, wheezing.
Gaila reached over and grabbed his shoulder. "Harry, why are you laughing?"
"This is SO ridiculous!" he gasped, still shaking. Alanna frowned at him. Waving a hand, Harry continued. "Here we are, arguing about the stupidest of things when two people's lives hang in the balance! Yeah, me and Draco are going to be part of the extrication. Yes, everyone else in indispensable. Why can't you people see that?" he asked, suddenly extremely serious. He stared at Dumbledore, McGonagall, Sprout, Sinistera, and all the other Order members. His eyes, cold as emeralds, cut into each of them until they looked away, ashamed. Only Dumbledore met his gaze steadily. Neither of them looked away, unwilling to admit defeat.
Alanna shook her head, and stood up. Harry tore his eyes from the twinkling, challenging, and ice blue gaze and looked at his oldest sister expectantly. "Harry has a point. The Order is not in charge here, Xander, Harry, Draco and I are."
Harry endured the whispers that broke out, just barely. "Lana, did you have to tell them?" he asked quietly.
"Harry, you're our champion. That means that you will have a final say in everything we do. Draco is your soul mate and our other Champion, which gives him a say as well," Alanna explained patiently.
"Does anyone have a problem with that?" Xander asked, staring at each person in turn. Everyone shook their heads.
"Good, then let's continue. Harry, what seems to be the best way to get to Laurel and Sirius, in your opinion?" Alanna asked.
Harry and Draco put their heads together briefly. Go in and get out seems the best, you know. Six of us should be able to do it, provided we aren't caught, Harry thought.
Draco pondered this. Right, I agree. You, me, Uncle Sev, definitely Alanna and Xander and your dad would do it.
Harry spoke aloud. "I think Alanna, Xander, Draco, my Dad, Uncle Sev and I could go in at the portal in the Department of Mysteries. We could get to the other Portals using as little magic as possible and go into Clautius's realm to rescue Laurel. Our contacts can inform Sirius of when we will be there, and he can get out with us. I'm thinking we'll need invisibility cloaks as well as some specific potions. Anything anyone can contribute?"
Ginny sat for a moment, thinking. She had something to contribute, but then it would give away the Christmas present she had thought of... oh well. "I think you need something that is impervious to Demon magic, Harry," she said firmly.
Xander blinked. "Good point, Ginny. Does anyone have any idea on how to do that?"
"I'm working on something, but I make no promises," Ginny spoke up again.
"All right, then the main rescue attempt will happen from here," Commander George said, putting an X on the diagram of one of the planets. "That makes it almost ten kilometers to reach the necessary portals. At that time, based on information to the movements of Sirius and where he will be, the team will split up. Harry, Draco and Severus will go after Laurel, with that being their specific goal. Alanna, Xander and James will rendezvous with Sirius Black and lead him to the portal. From there, they will get to ANY of the three safe portals that lead out of Clautius's realm, and wherever they land will be dealt with accordingly."
"Where are these portals again and where do they lead?" Draco asked wearily.
Xander pointed to the three portals in blue. "This one is the portal from the Department of Mysteries, this one leads from the Werewolves' palace, and this last one leads directly to Claudette's palace. They all lead onto the way-station world, the one that houses all the portals to Clautius's eleven other planets. From there, there are eleven inter-planet portals, which take you to the different worlds. Of the eleven, five are to the main worlds, each run by one of Clautius's sons or the main man himself. Don't get confused. We don't need you getting lost."
"All right, the second wave," Commander George continued, "will start from the three portals. We can expand the portals with magic, so that entire companies can move in at once. We will have groups of probably twenty at most, as we are training you in the SEAL training. If the first group needs help, it will be a no holds barred, everyone goes sort of deal. No holding back, and we attack only to ensure that the six of them as well as the two POWs are returned safely. Also, magic of all forms will be used, as the second assault will have no reason to hide. Anything added?"
Harry raised a hand. "I think that Gaila and Olivia would be best to be heading such an organization as well as yourself."
Lily stood up. "Where do I fit in?" she asked, annoyed. "I'm pregnant, not an invalid!"
"Mum, you and Ginny would be part of the second wave. I doubt that anyone could keep you from coming after us at any rate," Harry said thoughtfully.
"It's settled, then," Alanna said briskly. "The six of us are the first wave, the ones mentioned are the second wave, which includes Gaila, Olivia, Lily, Ginny, and Commander George directing the troops, and everyone else, as well as any healers we can find, are on healing detail."
"That sounds like a plan. I'll call in the rest of the teams then and we'll be on our way," Commander George stated as he stood up and walked out of the Hall. He came back in two minutes later with sixty Navy SEALS, each standing in groups of ten. "McAllister, take your team and go to specifically the Vampires," he directed. A group strode as one over to Claudette.
One by one, the teams received their assignments. Only Commander George remained. "I'll train the Hogwarts group personally," he said with a decidedly evil grin. Harry and Draco gulped.
That doesn't sound good, they thought in unison nervously.
"Sal, Gryf, you go with the Fae group, Rowan and Gabrielle, you are with the werewolves. Olivia and Michael will take the high elves and Veela, Gaila and Raphael will take the Drow and Vampires, and Damien and Nicholai will take the Dragons. Everyone, I expect weekly reports and I'll see you the last week of March for any additional information, and we'll attack April first."
HOT DAMN!!!! thought Olivia and Gaila eagerly. So many gorgeous guys, so little time!!!!!! First the training, then the fighting, THEN THE ORGY!!!!!!
Harry and Draco gaped and started giggling. Michael and Raphael looked rather annoyed. NO ORGY! Gaila and Olivia's soul mates thought in unison.
Damnit! What if you two joined in? Olivia thought mischievously.
Both guys grinned and nodded. Harry and Draco stared at them, wide eyed.
One by one, the different leaders of the world's magical nations left, their SEAL teams and Demigod instructors in tow.
Harry turned to Draco. "Well, since it's only 4:30 in the afternoon, what do you want to do?"
Blaise and Seamus spoke up. "Well, since Damien and Nicholai have left," Seamus started.
"Maybe we should practice with the team," Blaise finished.
They ended together, "seeing as we're the new Beaters and all."
At that, the entire team grinned and rushed out to the Pitch, the adults following them. They spent the rest of the day getting Blaise and Seamus up to par and used to the game link.
The next morning, Harry and Draco were sitting at the table eating breakfast with Ginny, Lily, James, Remus and Severus when the doors to Hogwarts burst open. "I DEMAND TO SEE MY SON!" the unmistakable voice of Lucius Malfoy bellowed through the silence. They could hear Dumbledore's normally calm voice bellowing back at the school Governor.
Draco jumped up, a mix of terror and fury blasting into Harry's mind. DAMN IT!! Draco! Calm down! Harry ordered, sending waves of peace and calm to his soul mate. If anything, it made Draco angrier.
He tried to KILL me, Harry. Stop trying to calm me down! Draco replied, furious. Lucius Malfoy, at that moment, strode into the Great Hall.
"Draco. You will cease this foolishness and come home where you belong," he ordered sternly, standing in front of the group of students seated at the Slytherin Tables.
"What foolishness?" Draco asked calmly, his narrowed eyes the only indication that he was anything BUT calm.
"This foolishness of playing house with a Gryffindor, abandoning your true family, and binding yourself to a WEASELEY! Come home, Draconis, or you will no longer HAVE a home!" Lucius's normally cold, impassive face twisted into a sneer and his cheeks turned red.
Ginny, Severus and Harry stood up, furious. "You know, Malfoy," Harry started pleasantly, watching Lucius's face turn even more scarlet, "you really should choose your battles more wisely. You're sorely outclassed here, yet you storm in, making threats to some of the most powerful, most wealthy people in the Wizarding World."
Draco stared at Harry, amusement plain on his face. You really know how to tick people off, don't you? he asked wryly, his anger slightly fading.
I only learned from the best, Love, Harry responded with a grin.
"It doesn't matter if you disown Draco or not, Malfoy," Severus continued pleasantly. "You see, Harry and he have already stated their intentions to bond, and as such Harry has added him as someone who can access the Potter Vaults. You know how much money Harry is worth. Somewhere in the neighborhood of thirty one billion Galleons?" he asked, directed to Harry.
Harry grinned. "Closer to thirty five after interest," he admitted, smirking. "It's enough that we could buy several small countries and have billions left to play with. So, you see, Malfoy, Draco doesn't need you."
Lucius stared at Draco and Harry, trying to regain his composure. " You- you – you-" he stuttered, his eyes bulging out of their sockets.
"Yes? Do spit it out. We haven't got all day," Ginny chimed in haughtily. Harry turned away and snickered almost silently.
Lucius raised his wand threateningly. "You WILL come home, Draco, and you will do so right now."
Draco stared at his father incredulously. "Did nothing that happened over the summer retain in your memory? You tried to kill me and I blocked the Killing Curse. You cannot order me around. What happened to you, Father? Why'd you change?" Draco asked wistfully, staring at Lucius with concern.
"Nothing happened to me, boy! I finally realized the true way to act with traitors!" Lucius shouted back, his face twisting into a sneer.
Draco took a step back, his face set. "Very well, Father," he sneered. "I will be returning home, if only to ensure my mother's safety. God only knows what you have done to her in my absence. Harry?"
Harry and Draco stood and Apparated immediately, leaving a stunned Lucius and snickering Ginny and Severus in their wake.
They arrived in the entrance hall of the Manor. "Mother!" yelled Draco impatiently.
"Draconis! Your father convinced you to come home for Christmas, then?" Narcissa asked, gliding into the Hall. She stopped when she saw Harry. "You didn't tell me we would be having guests, Lucius," she scolded gently over the teens' shoulders.
Harry and Draco turned to see Lucius walking through the front door, his cane clicking on the stone tiles. "I didn't say I would be bringing guests, Narcissa," he answered stiffly, his face a mask. "The damn brat decided to tag along."
"Lucius, please control yourself. 'That damn brat' as you call him is the richest wizard in the world and our son's soul mate," Narcissa said with a smile. "Welcome to our home," she greeted Harry.
"Mum, what is he doing here?" Draco asked with exasperation. "Don't tell me you let him come home after what he did to you."
Narcissa scowled. "He is your father and my husband. He apologized and I let him come back. End of discussion."
"Fine, whatever," Draco muttered. He turned to his father. "If you EVER hurt her again, I swear I'll-"
"You'll do what, you brat? Nothing. I am master of this house and I will do as I please," Lucius thundered, ignoring Narcissa's scowl. He strode over to his son and towered over him.
Harry had had enough. "Listen, Malfoy, don't threaten my soul mate!" he growled, coming between Draco and his father.
Draco rolled his eyes. Possessive much? he asked, standing next to Harry.
Sorry, but you're a little too emotional to deal levelheadedly with this, Harry reminded him.
And you are?
"Will you show some proper respect? I am LORD MALFOY, not just Malfoy!" Lucius bellowed, his face purple.
Harry and Draco stared at each other, grinning. Should we? It would be fun! Harry asked.
"WHAT IS SO BLOODY FUNNY????" Lucius screamed.
"Lucius! Language!" Narcissa remarked calmly. He ignored her.
We should, Draco thought.
"Well, LORD Malfoy, if we are going by titles, then why aren't you on the floor, begging for forgiveness?" Harry asked idly.
"WHAT?????"
Well, we BOTH are demigods, so a little 'Your Eminence', or 'My God' at the very LEAST is in order," Draco drawled.
Lucius turned four shades of red and purple, his mouth working furiously. Behind him, Narcissa snickered before composing herself. Harry grinned at her and she swept from the hall, still chuckling.
"YOU- YOU'RE WHAT???????" Lucius roared, finally able to talk.
"We're demigods. What part of that don't you understand?" Harry asked, treating Lucius as if he were stupid.
Draco sniggered, holding his stomach from the effort of not laughing. "Father, we have more power in our little fingers than Voldemort has in his entire body!" Draco gasped, finally succumbing to laughter.
Lucius stared at them. "Wha---" he managed to gasp.
Harry rolled his eyes. "I guess we'll have to show him, then." Raising his hand, he linked his fingers with Draco's and they effortlessly raised their auras. Narcissa walked back in just in time to feel a gale force wind whip through the entrance hall, slamming Lucius into the door. He fell to his knees and the earth bucked and heaved. He fell, prostrate, to the ground, trying to find purchase in the heaving and roiling earth.
Narcissa watched from the doorway as just the front hall was affected. "Oh my, they HAVE learned control! Excellent! Good show, my son." She turned and left.
Harry and Draco stopped the impressive display of power, one that had used up one one-billionth of their separate abilities. Think that did it? Draco asked hopefully.
Lucius stood up shaking, staring at his son as if he had never seen him before. "Are you sure you're my Draconis?" he asked shrewdly.
Draco rolled his eyes. "Yes, Father, I am your son Draco." Lucius stared at him and shook his head.
"Well, my Lord- AAARGH!!!!!" the older man yelled, clasping his temples in agony. "My son," he gasped, tears leaking form his eyes. "Get out of here, it's a setup, Voldemort and Clautius are coming, go, I love you." He screamed again in pain.
Harry and Draco stared at him. "FATHER????" Draco yelled, covering the elder Malfoy's hands with his own. Angrily, they pushed into Lucius's mind and felt absolute evil radiating back, controlling every movement, every word, locking him inside his own mind as a prisoner.
Stunned, they flew from his mind. Lucius stared back at them coolly, the evil once again controlling him. "Father, don't worry. We will get you out of there," Draco promised. With that, they Apparated back to Hogwarts, missing Clautius by minutes.
A scream of rage could be heard echoing from Malfoy Manor until the early hours of the morning.
Alone in his mind, Lucius Malfoy wept bitter tears and felt, for the first time since his release from Azkaban, when Clautius, through his creation- the Dementors- had taken over his body, a ray of hope. Give 'em hell, son.
A/N: DUN DUN DUN! Yay! A new chapter and the replacement of the Author's note! Thanks again to everyone who responded! You are all wonderful!
I LOVE YOU PITCHIC05!!!!!!!! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!! Just so everyone knows, she gave me the end of chapter 4 and now it's updated so anyone who didn't read the end of chapter 4 go reread it! Thank you everyone who got me the chapters. You guys are the best!
Chapter 25
At ten thirty a.m. the next morning, Harry and Draco put the finishing touches on the binding circle in the center of the Room of Requirement. Severus and Lily watched them avidly, bickering quietly from their chairs.
"I still say they should have placed the proper incantations while outside the circle, not inside," Severus argued, drawing his nephew's and godson's attention.
"For the last time, Sev, that's why the circle exploded on you and sent you flying forty feet. I don't want my son or his soul mate to go flying out a window. I can't imagine HOW I'd explain that one to the Headmaster." Severus chuckled, putting his feet up.
"Oh, I can see it perfectly," he laughed. "Oh, Headmaster, I have no IDEA how that enormous hole appeared in the castle wall! It just happened ALL by ITSELF!!!" he exclaimed dramatically in a poor falsetto imitation of Lily, throwing his hand over his heart. Lily snickered and elbowed him in the ribs and they collapsed, laughing hysterically.
"Do you two MIND?" Harry snapped irritably. "Do you WANT us to blow up the circle?" He and Draco stood just inside the shimmery circle painted on the floor. Energy rose from the floor, making a slightly opaque wall that stood about chest high.
Lily and Severus sat up, still giggling. "Sorry, love," Lily gasped, holding her sides. "I'm having a blond moment."
"Hey!" yelped Draco angrily. "I resemble that remark!"
Lily and Severus turned to each other, identical smirks on their faces. "And your point is?" they asked in unison.
Draco sniffed angrily. "I'll have you know that I'm deeply offended by that remark," he replied with wounded dignity.
Harry affectionately patted him on the head. "It's ok, Draco. I love you just the way you are," he cooed gently, smirking. Draco visibly relaxed and smiled his cheeks tingeing red. "In fact," Harry continued, "it's your vapidness that drew me to you in the first place. Never change."
Draco scowled and pouted. "That's the last straw! You're sleeping on the couch tonight!"
Harry pouted in mock disbelief. "You wouldn't!" he accused.
"Oh, watch me, Harold Potter."
Harry smirked. "It's not like we do anything anyway..." he trailed off, earning himself a murderous glare from his soul mate and outright gales of laughter from his mother and uncle.
"Well, if it means that little to you," Draco said with a sniff. He haughtily strode from the circle and out the door, almost slamming into Ginny on his way out. She stared at the three remaining people in the room, all hysterical with laughter, and rolled her eyes, walking after Draco.
She found him standing a corridor away, snickering softly to himself. "Oh, do I wait for them to come after me or do I go back in all wounded? Vapidness indeed, I'll show them vapid!"
"Um, Draco, are you all right?" Ginny asked, resting a hand on his shoulder.
"Oh, just fine, Ginny, just fine." Draco turned and walked back towards the Room of Requirement, Ginny following resolutely. They strode back into the room, to see a sobered Lily and Severus sitting on one couch, and a half asleep Harry sitting on the floor in front of his mother, who was playing with his hair.
Ginny stared at him bemusedly. "Hey, Harry, Mrs. Potter, Uncle Sev, what're you doing in here?" Harry jumped.
"Um, hi, Ginny. We- we're setting up," he finished, staring at Draco. You weren't supposed to get her until AFTER McKnight showed up, he reminded Draco sulkily.
She followed me in. What's a vapid blond to do? Draco asked, smirking and crossing his arms.
Harry sighed.
"What are you setting up?" Ginny asked curiously. She stared at the circle, her eyes widening. "The Binding Circle! But, I thought- When where you going to tell me?" she demanded, throwing herself at Harry and summoning Draco in the same instant. Draco went flying through the air, his expression a mixture of shock and horror, as he crashed into Harry and Ginny, throwing them against the couch.
"OOOOF!" Ginny, can't- breathe," gasped Harry and Draco at the same time. Ginny giggled and relaxed her hold.
"Gin, we were going to surprise you after- OH shit! Mum, what time is it?" Harry gasped, staring entreatingly up at his mother.
"It's ten fifty eight, why?" Lily asked, frowning.
"OHMYGOD! Mr. McKnight's gonna be here any minute!" Harry scrambled to his feet and Apparated to the Great Hall.
Draco and Lily stared at each other in surprise. Finally, Draco stood up, cocking an eyebrow. "And why does Harry need a lawyer?"
Harry appeared in the middle of the Great Hall and anxiously smoothed his shirt. Why the hell did I wear black mesh on today of all days? he wondered, staring down at his clothing with trepidation. A loud thump coming from the fireplace behind Dumbledore's chair had him turning towards the noise, his questionable attire already forgotten as he hurried up to the fireplace.
Gareth McKnight stood up and straightened out his robes. "Bloody god DAMN Floo, made just to antagonize me!" he muttered. Harry stifled a chuckle.
"Mr. McKnight?" he called brightly, walking forward. The older man turned.
"Ah, Lord Potter!" he smiled, walking forward and extending his hand. Harry instantly shook his hand, grinning as well.
"Mr. McKnight, thank you for coming on such a short notice. We'll have to go to the Room of Requirement, as I want the binding ceremony to be witnessed properly." Dad, I need you in the Room of Requirement.
He felt his father look up from the book he was reading in his quarters, a smirk on his face. Ok, Harry. He felt James Apparate straight to the Room of Requirement and grinned.
Turning, he led the older wizard through the halls and up the stairs, at last coming to portrait of Bartholomew the Barmy. Walking past it three times, the door appeared and he strode through, McKnight following behind him.
"Mum, Dad, you know Mr. McKnight. Mr. McKnight, these are-"
"Your parents, Lily and James," McKnight gasped, pushing past Harry and enveloping James and then Lily in massive bear hugs. "How- What- Why- Merlin!" he exclaimed, amazed.
They sat on the couch, and James and Lily both hastened to tell their friend and lawyer exactly what had happened to them and how they had returned. Harry, Draco and Ginny reviewed the parts of the Binding Ritual, making sure nothing had been left out. By the time they were finished, it was noon and everyone was feeling a bit hungry.
Dobby? called Harry, mentally searching for the hyperactive house elf.
Dobby appeared suddenly. "Yes, Master Harry Potter? What can Dobby do for Harry Potter?" he asked, bubbling over with excitement.
"Could you bring us some lunch? What's on the menu for today?" Harry asked politely.
Dobby shook with excitement. "Master Harry Potter can have whatever he wants, sir!" he squealed happily.
Harry looked around with amusement. "You guys have any ideas?" he asked with a grin.
"Simple, like sandwiches?" Ginny suggested. Her face brightened. "Oh and I want a plate of warm chocolate chip cookies and brownies and a tall glass of milk, is that all right?" she asked Dobby in a rush.
How much sugar has she had today? Draco asked Harry privately.
Too much is NEVER enough! Ginny yelled, bouncing on her seat.
Does that answer your question? Harry asked, rolling his eyes. Dobby left, muttering about making the best lunch for Master Harry Potter.
McKnight stared at them in confusion. "Am I missing something?" he asked, shaking his head.
"Oops, sorry. We're all telepaths and what you missed was the verification that my sister has had WAY too much sugar," Harry explained sagely.
McKnight just shook his head. "Whatever."
Dobby returned with a whole tray full of sandwiches and a mountain of cookies, as well as a gallon of milk and seven glasses, enough for everyone. As soon as they had finished eating, Harry stood up, helping Draco and Ginny to their feet. "It's time, Gin, Draco. Let's do this."
Harry and Draco each grabbed one of Ginny's hands, leading her to the circle. Still holding fast to her hands, they stood just on the edge, calling the magic of the circle around them. They each produced a sharp knife, ready to slash across their palms, but the skin sprang apart magically, to their surprise and consternation. A light breeze picked up in the room as the circle once again sprang into life, and the other four occupants in the room tensed.
"You know, Lily, I don't recall the circle actually forming a physical barrier when we blood bonded," Severus stated seriously. He turned to her, worried. "Are you sure this will be all right?"
Lily looked back at him with trepidation and worry. "I don't know, Sev, I don't know. The only thing I can think of is that all three of them know of their full powers and their abilities are coming into play for this."
"I hope you're right, Lily." They turned back and prepared to witness their son/nephew and future son-in-law/ godson bind themselves as family to Ginny.
Harry, Draco and Ginny began, the two young men much more confident than their soon to be sister.
"Blood to blood," they began, and Severus and Lily watched in silence as their powers suddenly sprang into life, the forest green, icy blue and scarlet/gold whipped around the respective immortals.
"I bind thee to me.
Heart to heart,
You are my family."
Ginny fell silent, her eyes glowing pure gold. Draco and Harry continued their eyes both glowing pure silver.
"Always and forever
I bind myself to you."
At that first line uttered by the two, Harry and Draco's powers merged completely, making them glow silver and white. They continued, oblivious to the changes that were worrying the four adults in the room.
"Through thick and thin
I bind myself to you. Your brother and protector,"
they chanted, and Ginny's aura started to bleed two different colors on top of her scarlet and gold: forest green and icy blue. The extra colors swirled in and out of her aura, forming candy cane stripes.
Severus turned to an equally shaken Lily. "That DEFINATELY didn't happen when we blood bonded," he remarked in an undertone, clearly worried. She just stared back at him, her eyes dark with concern.
"I bind myself to you.
One blood, one family
I bind myself to you."
A strong wind whipped around, emanating from the three of them, blowing the tapestries from the walls and books from the shelves. Lily threw a slight shield around her, James, Severus and Gareth McKnight just in case. As she did that, the walls began to hum with power and vibrate.
"What's going on???!!?!!?" demanded McKnight as he gripped the armrests of his chair hard enough to turn his knuckles white. "Why are they radiating so much power?"
"Watch," Lily advised her face a stony mask.
Harry and Draco fell silent and Ginny took up the chant, the wind and hum growing in intensity with every word.
"I take you as my brothers," she began, and incandescent sparkles filled the air, slowly spiraling towards the three of them and the Binding Circle.
"I bind myself to you.
I welcome you as family
I bind myself to you.
I take the Potter and Malfoy name
I bind myself to you.
My family forever
I bind myself to you."
The sparkles solidified around them, making them difficult to see. Lily and James gasped. "Lily is that-" he broke off, staring at his son, son's soul mate, and now daughter in wonder.
"Oh my- IT IS!" Lily exclaimed, her hand flying over her mouth. She gasped and tears started to fall down her cheeks. "Oh wow, I didn't know She'd be here." They solidified the shield, so McKnight wouldn't explode from the sheer power ripping through the room.
Harry, Ginny and Draco continued, oblivious to everything going on around them.
"Blood to blood,
I bind thee to me.
Heart to heart
You are my family."
They finished, as the wind escalated to impossible speeds. They finally noticed the wind, the humming stones and the spectacular colors surrounding the three of them and gazed in wonder, confused.
Lily was the first to speak. "So witnessed, so mote it be," she stated authoritatively.
James and Severus followed in unison. "So witnessed, so mote it be."
McKnight finished, still confused. "So witnessed, so mote it be!"
A booming, wonderful, beautiful voice echoed him. "SO WITNESSED, SO MOTE IT BE!" Harry, Draco and Ginny gaped as the sparkles solidified even further into a human form, and then features molded onto the face. The form stood in the center of the Circle and held Her arms out.
Harry, Draco and Ginny flew into Her arms, tears of joy streaming down their faces. "Mother," they managed to gasp out. Lily, James and Severus stood up and left the shield and crowded against the edge of the Circle, their faces transfixed.
"MY CHILDREN, MY LOVES, YOUR BINDING WILL ONLY MAKE YOU STRONGER. I GIVE THIS FAMILY," She opened her arms and gaze to include Lily, James and Severus in the word 'family', "MY BLESSING AND PROTECTION AND JOY THAT YOU HAVE FOUND EACH OTHER. STAY TOGETHER AND YOU WITH PREVAIL."
The form, with one last hug, slowly dissipated, leaving everyone with a sense of loss.
"All right, what was that?" Gareth McKnight demanded, still completely confused. "Who was that?"
"Gareth, you remember when we said that being friends with us would lead to many weird happenings?" James asked, slinging his arm around the confused mortal's shoulders.
"Oh, is this one of those times?" McKnight asked.
"Yes. That was God, and She blessed the blood bond. Do you want any more of an explanation?" Lily asked.
McKnight stared at them. "I think that might have been too much as it was," he mumbled.
Harry laughed. "Mr. McKnight, could you get the paperwork out?" he asked, down to business.
McKnight gladly pulled out his satchel, getting back to familiar ground. "Of course, Young Lord Potter. Here are the documents you requested." He handed Harry a stack of papers almost three inches high.
Harry leafed through them, scanning the pages. "And everything is in order?" he asked.
Lily and James stared at him suspiciously as he handed two documents to each of them. "Mum, Dad, sign these," he instructed, handing three documents to Ginny and six to Draco. "You two need to sign and read those."
Lily gave a whoop of joy and wrapped her son in a bear hug. "James, he's reinstating us as his primary guardians, along with Sirius and Severus!!!! And, he's reinstating us as co owners of the Potter Fortune!" James grinned and ruffled Harry's hair.
"That's not all he's doing," Draco stated, staring at Harry in shock. "He's added me-"
Ginny interrupted. "And me!"
"- to have access to any and all Vaults at any time. Harry are you sure about this?" Draco asked a smile ghosting across his face.
Harry shrugged. "You're my soul mate. As soon as we complete the bond, we're as good as married."
Draco gulped and gave a weak smile. "I hadn't thought of it that way."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Yeah, figures." He bent over the stack of forms left in his possession and began signing documents.
Lily looked at him curiously. "What are those?" she asked.
"Well, you know how Sirius fell through the Veil?" Harry asked absently.
"Yeah, that's one of two reasons why we're going in there!" James answered.
"Well, they thought he was dead so they read his will and everything," Harry answered, signing the last document. "There, it's official. All I need is Draco to sign here and it'll be done. You really don't want Black Manor, do you?" he asked his soul mate.
Draco snickered and took the quill. "No one has lived there in over twenty years. Like hell I'd EVER set foot in it." he signed on the dotted line.
"Harry, what are you doing?" Lily demanded.
"Oh, nothing just remade the Black Fortune and put the titles to Black Manor and the Black Summer Villa in France back to Siri's name. I hope you don't mind."
James jumped into the bear hung and almost squeezed the life out of his son. "Harry, have I told you yet today how much I love you?" he asked, grinning like a madman.
Severus snickered quietly. "He's giving away YOUR money, Potter."
"Three words, Snape: Thirty Billion Galleons." Severus stared at Harry and his parents, realizing the enormity of that amount.
That wouldn't even make a dent in that, Severus mused quietly.
Duh, that's why I did it. I've got the cash to spare and Siri isn't dead, so it isn't a problem. Harry handed the documents back to McKnight. "Could you file the recreation of Sirius's bank account and properties before you turn control over to my parents?" Harry asked.
"Sure, Young-"
"Harry, please. Just Harry." Harry interrupted, getting sick of the 'Lord' crap.
"Of course Harry." McKnight packed his satchel, their business finished. "As much as I would love to stay longer and catch up with you two," the lawyer nodded to James and Lily, "I have an appointment in an hour with the Tokyo representatives of our firm."
James and Lily led him back to the Great Hall, Harry, Draco, Ginny, and Severus following behind them.
Later on that night, Claudette and Lucas arrived along with two Vampire and two Drow advisors. As soon as they had exchanged pleasantries with Alanna and Xander and had been shown to their rooms, Elei'n and Anowyn had arrived, along with four Elvin counselors of their own. They were shown to their rooms as well.
Harry quickly approached Alanna. "I don't mean to be rude, but why's everyone here? Did I miss something?"
Alanna walked forward, welcoming Xavier and Samantha, the Lukoi and Lupa of the Werewolves, and, surprisingly, Argonne Lupa, the Slytherin first year. Harry showed them to the rooms that had been prepared for them, thinking furiously. "Argonne, why are you back here so soon?" he asked as they walked down the hallway.
"These are my grandparents," she answered simply. "They are my guardians also since my parents died."
As soon as he had gotten back, Alanna pulled him aside. "We're now in the planning stage," she whispered. He gaped at her and walked back over to the Entrance, schooling his features into a small smile.
Tatyana and Orion strode through the door, four Veela trailing behind them. Rowan showed them to their rooms, chatting pleasantly the entire way.
Byron and Havanna, the Dragonkin Emperor and Empress, landed on the front lawn and that point. Alanna walked outside to greet them, and returned inside with a young man who looked suspiciously like an exact combination of Alanna and Xander. He was accompanies be a young woman with fire red hair.
Lorien and Shareena arrived last, flying directly into the Entrance and landing lightly. They were followed by four of their entourage. Harry secretly doubted that they were counselors of any kind, particularly as one kept fixing Shareena's train and another kept trying to smooth Lorien's hair. Alanna sighed as she walked them to their rooms, muttering mentally, I TOLD them to bring trustworthy advisors and who do they bring? Their personal groomers!
Harry snickered and they all Apparated to their respective quarters, ready to go to sleep. "So, Draco, am I still sleeping on the couch?" Harry teased as he lay down on his bed.
Draco huffed, and turned around, grinning. "Nope, cuz vapid blondes have short attention spans." Happily, Draco crawled into bed next to Harry and they wrapped their arms and minds around each other, ensuring peaceful dreams.
The next morning, everyone woke early, anxious to start the meetings and planning. Harry, Draco, Ginny, Emily, Eric, Blaise, Seamus, Neville, and Luna all arrived in the Great Hall together, sitting at their usual place. To their surprise, EVERYONE joined them, from the other demigods to even the teachers. Dumbledore himself forgo the comfort of the Teacher's table, his eyes twinkling madly. One by one, the Order of the Phoenix members trickled into the Hall and took seats around the Slytherin Tables as well.
As soon as everyone was seated, Alanna stood up. "All right, settle down everyone. I promise to make this as quick and painless as possible. Now then- HEY! We're missing some important people!"
At that, the doors flew open and eleven men strode through, all in U.S. Military fatigues. Emily stood up, grinning. "DADDY!!" she shrieked and ran to the doors. "YOU MADE IT!!!!!!!" The lead man grabbed her around the waist and slung her into his arms.
"Of course I made it, Emily. We're training everyone, so we are rather important," the tall stranger said with a grin. He put her back down and she took his hand, pulling him to the table.
Alanna walked over. "Commander George, thank you for taking time out of your schedule to talk to us and help us with our planning." She and the Commander shook hands.
"No problem, Alanna. I'm only glad we can help you, although I have no idea how our knowledge is of any relevance." With a hand motion, the newcomers walked over to the table and sat down, intermingling amongst the already seated people.
"You see, Commander George, while we are all very powerful, we've never fought a battle on such a large scale before, much less going in without being detected to do a rapid extrication. All the nations you see here are either peaceful or united against one common enemy. Battles don't happen very often in the magical world and when they do, they're short, bloody, and over almost before we know it," Claudette stated simply. "I think I speak for all of us when I say that you have the expertise here, not us." A rush of nods and murmurs ran up and down the table.
Even Dumbledore was forced to agree with her statements. "While we have had issues with Voldemort here in Britain, he's one man and his followers are few. We only really know how to clean up after his messes, not plan a full scale attack," he conceded from his seat next to McGonagall.
"All right, then what do we have to work with?" Commander George asked thoughtfully.
Claudette thought for a minute. "You have three hundred of my best Drow and three hundred fifty Vampires."
Lorien did some quick calculations. "You have two hundred and fifty of the Fae."
Byron went next. "You have as many of the Dragons as you need."
Commander George raised a hand. "Um, not to be rude or anything, but how do we train Dragons in human maneuvers?"
Byron sat there, stumped. Harry raised a hand. "Well, if Emperor Byron can change form, then can't the other Dragons?"
Byron grinned. "Not exactly, Harry. I'm a full Demigod, just remaining immortal on earth. Havanna is as well. We can shift, but our children cannot."
Harry put his hand back down. "Oh."
Alanna thought for a minute. "Well, they can do attack formations and some of the demons are that large, so it should work out. We'll think of something."
Tatyana spoke up. "You have four hundred Veela at your disposal."
Xavier leaned his head down to his granddaughter. She whispered something in his ear and he nodded. "My Heir has a valid point. How are we going to be trained? Pledging people is all and good, but let's be realistic here. How do you plan on getting all of us trained?"
Commander George sat back and thought. "Well, I could call for more SEAL teams. We aren't the only one, you know. There are at least fifty more."
"So we'd get a SEAL team per nation?" Anowyn asked.
"As well as two of our own so that we can fine tune powers and such," Alanna stated simply.
Elei'n's eyes widened. "All right, then, I pledge four hundred of my best to be trained."
Xavier spoke up again. "And I four hundred as well."
"All right, that settles that. Now, onto the planning." Alanna gestured to the Vampires, Drow and Werewolves to begin.
Claudette's four Advisors pulled out maps, diagrams, and twelve scale models of the different worlds. The werewolves brought out models, diagrams and reports on each kind of Demon, Wraith, and prototypes Clautius had created or was thinking of creating. Outlined in the reports were powers, abilities, and anything noteworthy of their foes.
They spent several hours going over the exact layout of the planets, as well as where Laurel was being kept, as well as Sirius's location at any given moment. Harry and his friends paid rapt attention, regardless of the disapproving looks the Order members and other teachers, Severus and Remus not included, shot their way every other sentence.
"Alanna, not to interrupt or anything, but why are the children here?" Professor Sprout finally asked about four hours into the planning.
"Because we have a right to know what is going on!" Seamus yelled, his face contorted in an angry sneer.
"You're sixteen! What are you going to contribute, Mr. Finnegan?" McGonagall asked crossly.
"ENOUGH!" Alanna yelled, extremely angry. She stood up, going into lecture mode. "Age doesn't matter. At this point, any help or insight is welcome! Harry and Draco are sixteen and they are going to play an integral part of what is going on! Even if the others do not participate in the all out assault, they are going to be indispensable for healing and anything else we can think of!"
Harry snickered. Draco elbowed him, but he kept laughing, until he was doubled over, wheezing.
Gaila reached over and grabbed his shoulder. "Harry, why are you laughing?"
"This is SO ridiculous!" he gasped, still shaking. Alanna frowned at him. Waving a hand, Harry continued. "Here we are, arguing about the stupidest of things when two people's lives hang in the balance! Yeah, me and Draco are going to be part of the extrication. Yes, everyone else in indispensable. Why can't you people see that?" he asked, suddenly extremely serious. He stared at Dumbledore, McGonagall, Sprout, Sinistera, and all the other Order members. His eyes, cold as emeralds, cut into each of them until they looked away, ashamed. Only Dumbledore met his gaze steadily. Neither of them looked away, unwilling to admit defeat.
Alanna shook her head, and stood up. Harry tore his eyes from the twinkling, challenging, and ice blue gaze and looked at his oldest sister expectantly. "Harry has a point. The Order is not in charge here, Xander, Harry, Draco and I are."
Harry endured the whispers that broke out, just barely. "Lana, did you have to tell them?" he asked quietly.
"Harry, you're our champion. That means that you will have a final say in everything we do. Draco is your soul mate and our other Champion, which gives him a say as well," Alanna explained patiently.
"Does anyone have a problem with that?" Xander asked, staring at each person in turn. Everyone shook their heads.
"Good, then let's continue. Harry, what seems to be the best way to get to Laurel and Sirius, in your opinion?" Alanna asked.
Harry and Draco put their heads together briefly. Go in and get out seems the best, you know. Six of us should be able to do it, provided we aren't caught, Harry thought.
Draco pondered this. Right, I agree. You, me, Uncle Sev, definitely Alanna and Xander and your dad would do it.
Harry spoke aloud. "I think Alanna, Xander, Draco, my Dad, Uncle Sev and I could go in at the portal in the Department of Mysteries. We could get to the other Portals using as little magic as possible and go into Clautius's realm to rescue Laurel. Our contacts can inform Sirius of when we will be there, and he can get out with us. I'm thinking we'll need invisibility cloaks as well as some specific potions. Anything anyone can contribute?"
Ginny sat for a moment, thinking. She had something to contribute, but then it would give away the Christmas present she had thought of... oh well. "I think you need something that is impervious to Demon magic, Harry," she said firmly.
Xander blinked. "Good point, Ginny. Does anyone have any idea on how to do that?"
"I'm working on something, but I make no promises," Ginny spoke up again.
"All right, then the main rescue attempt will happen from here," Commander George said, putting an X on the diagram of one of the planets. "That makes it almost ten kilometers to reach the necessary portals. At that time, based on information to the movements of Sirius and where he will be, the team will split up. Harry, Draco and Severus will go after Laurel, with that being their specific goal. Alanna, Xander and James will rendezvous with Sirius Black and lead him to the portal. From there, they will get to ANY of the three safe portals that lead out of Clautius's realm, and wherever they land will be dealt with accordingly."
"Where are these portals again and where do they lead?" Draco asked wearily.
Xander pointed to the three portals in blue. "This one is the portal from the Department of Mysteries, this one leads from the Werewolves' palace, and this last one leads directly to Claudette's palace. They all lead onto the way-station world, the one that houses all the portals to Clautius's eleven other planets. From there, there are eleven inter-planet portals, which take you to the different worlds. Of the eleven, five are to the main worlds, each run by one of Clautius's sons or the main man himself. Don't get confused. We don't need you getting lost."
"All right, the second wave," Commander George continued, "will start from the three portals. We can expand the portals with magic, so that entire companies can move in at once. We will have groups of probably twenty at most, as we are training you in the SEAL training. If the first group needs help, it will be a no holds barred, everyone goes sort of deal. No holding back, and we attack only to ensure that the six of them as well as the two POWs are returned safely. Also, magic of all forms will be used, as the second assault will have no reason to hide. Anything added?"
Harry raised a hand. "I think that Gaila and Olivia would be best to be heading such an organization as well as yourself."
Lily stood up. "Where do I fit in?" she asked, annoyed. "I'm pregnant, not an invalid!"
"Mum, you and Ginny would be part of the second wave. I doubt that anyone could keep you from coming after us at any rate," Harry said thoughtfully.
"It's settled, then," Alanna said briskly. "The six of us are the first wave, the ones mentioned are the second wave, which includes Gaila, Olivia, Lily, Ginny, and Commander George directing the troops, and everyone else, as well as any healers we can find, are on healing detail."
"That sounds like a plan. I'll call in the rest of the teams then and we'll be on our way," Commander George stated as he stood up and walked out of the Hall. He came back in two minutes later with sixty Navy SEALS, each standing in groups of ten. "McAllister, take your team and go to specifically the Vampires," he directed. A group strode as one over to Claudette.
One by one, the teams received their assignments. Only Commander George remained. "I'll train the Hogwarts group personally," he said with a decidedly evil grin. Harry and Draco gulped.
That doesn't sound good, they thought in unison nervously.
"Sal, Gryf, you go with the Fae group, Rowan and Gabrielle, you are with the werewolves. Olivia and Michael will take the high elves and Veela, Gaila and Raphael will take the Drow and Vampires, and Damien and Nicholai will take the Dragons. Everyone, I expect weekly reports and I'll see you the last week of March for any additional information, and we'll attack April first."
HOT DAMN!!!! thought Olivia and Gaila eagerly. So many gorgeous guys, so little time!!!!!! First the training, then the fighting, THEN THE ORGY!!!!!!
Harry and Draco gaped and started giggling. Michael and Raphael looked rather annoyed. NO ORGY! Gaila and Olivia's soul mates thought in unison.
Damnit! What if you two joined in? Olivia thought mischievously.
Both guys grinned and nodded. Harry and Draco stared at them, wide eyed.
One by one, the different leaders of the world's magical nations left, their SEAL teams and Demigod instructors in tow.
Harry turned to Draco. "Well, since it's only 4:30 in the afternoon, what do you want to do?"
Blaise and Seamus spoke up. "Well, since Damien and Nicholai have left," Seamus started.
"Maybe we should practice with the team," Blaise finished.
They ended together, "seeing as we're the new Beaters and all."
At that, the entire team grinned and rushed out to the Pitch, the adults following them. They spent the rest of the day getting Blaise and Seamus up to par and used to the game link.
The next morning, Harry and Draco were sitting at the table eating breakfast with Ginny, Lily, James, Remus and Severus when the doors to Hogwarts burst open. "I DEMAND TO SEE MY SON!" the unmistakable voice of Lucius Malfoy bellowed through the silence. They could hear Dumbledore's normally calm voice bellowing back at the school Governor.
Draco jumped up, a mix of terror and fury blasting into Harry's mind. DAMN IT!! Draco! Calm down! Harry ordered, sending waves of peace and calm to his soul mate. If anything, it made Draco angrier.
He tried to KILL me, Harry. Stop trying to calm me down! Draco replied, furious. Lucius Malfoy, at that moment, strode into the Great Hall.
"Draco. You will cease this foolishness and come home where you belong," he ordered sternly, standing in front of the group of students seated at the Slytherin Tables.
"What foolishness?" Draco asked calmly, his narrowed eyes the only indication that he was anything BUT calm.
"This foolishness of playing house with a Gryffindor, abandoning your true family, and binding yourself to a WEASELEY! Come home, Draconis, or you will no longer HAVE a home!" Lucius's normally cold, impassive face twisted into a sneer and his cheeks turned red.
Ginny, Severus and Harry stood up, furious. "You know, Malfoy," Harry started pleasantly, watching Lucius's face turn even more scarlet, "you really should choose your battles more wisely. You're sorely outclassed here, yet you storm in, making threats to some of the most powerful, most wealthy people in the Wizarding World."
Draco stared at Harry, amusement plain on his face. You really know how to tick people off, don't you? he asked wryly, his anger slightly fading.
I only learned from the best, Love, Harry responded with a grin.
"It doesn't matter if you disown Draco or not, Malfoy," Severus continued pleasantly. "You see, Harry and he have already stated their intentions to bond, and as such Harry has added him as someone who can access the Potter Vaults. You know how much money Harry is worth. Somewhere in the neighborhood of thirty one billion Galleons?" he asked, directed to Harry.
Harry grinned. "Closer to thirty five after interest," he admitted, smirking. "It's enough that we could buy several small countries and have billions left to play with. So, you see, Malfoy, Draco doesn't need you."
Lucius stared at Draco and Harry, trying to regain his composure. " You- you – you-" he stuttered, his eyes bulging out of their sockets.
"Yes? Do spit it out. We haven't got all day," Ginny chimed in haughtily. Harry turned away and snickered almost silently.
Lucius raised his wand threateningly. "You WILL come home, Draco, and you will do so right now."
Draco stared at his father incredulously. "Did nothing that happened over the summer retain in your memory? You tried to kill me and I blocked the Killing Curse. You cannot order me around. What happened to you, Father? Why'd you change?" Draco asked wistfully, staring at Lucius with concern.
"Nothing happened to me, boy! I finally realized the true way to act with traitors!" Lucius shouted back, his face twisting into a sneer.
Draco took a step back, his face set. "Very well, Father," he sneered. "I will be returning home, if only to ensure my mother's safety. God only knows what you have done to her in my absence. Harry?"
Harry and Draco stood and Apparated immediately, leaving a stunned Lucius and snickering Ginny and Severus in their wake.
They arrived in the entrance hall of the Manor. "Mother!" yelled Draco impatiently.
"Draconis! Your father convinced you to come home for Christmas, then?" Narcissa asked, gliding into the Hall. She stopped when she saw Harry. "You didn't tell me we would be having guests, Lucius," she scolded gently over the teens' shoulders.
Harry and Draco turned to see Lucius walking through the front door, his cane clicking on the stone tiles. "I didn't say I would be bringing guests, Narcissa," he answered stiffly, his face a mask. "The damn brat decided to tag along."
"Lucius, please control yourself. 'That damn brat' as you call him is the richest wizard in the world and our son's soul mate," Narcissa said with a smile. "Welcome to our home," she greeted Harry.
"Mum, what is he doing here?" Draco asked with exasperation. "Don't tell me you let him come home after what he did to you."
Narcissa scowled. "He is your father and my husband. He apologized and I let him come back. End of discussion."
"Fine, whatever," Draco muttered. He turned to his father. "If you EVER hurt her again, I swear I'll-"
"You'll do what, you brat? Nothing. I am master of this house and I will do as I please," Lucius thundered, ignoring Narcissa's scowl. He strode over to his son and towered over him.
Harry had had enough. "Listen, Malfoy, don't threaten my soul mate!" he growled, coming between Draco and his father.
Draco rolled his eyes. Possessive much? he asked, standing next to Harry.
Sorry, but you're a little too emotional to deal levelheadedly with this, Harry reminded him.
And you are?
"Will you show some proper respect? I am LORD MALFOY, not just Malfoy!" Lucius bellowed, his face purple.
Harry and Draco stared at each other, grinning. Should we? It would be fun! Harry asked.
"WHAT IS SO BLOODY FUNNY????" Lucius screamed.
"Lucius! Language!" Narcissa remarked calmly. He ignored her.
We should, Draco thought.
"Well, LORD Malfoy, if we are going by titles, then why aren't you on the floor, begging for forgiveness?" Harry asked idly.
"WHAT?????"
Well, we BOTH are demigods, so a little 'Your Eminence', or 'My God' at the very LEAST is in order," Draco drawled.
Lucius turned four shades of red and purple, his mouth working furiously. Behind him, Narcissa snickered before composing herself. Harry grinned at her and she swept from the hall, still chuckling.
"YOU- YOU'RE WHAT???????" Lucius roared, finally able to talk.
"We're demigods. What part of that don't you understand?" Harry asked, treating Lucius as if he were stupid.
Draco sniggered, holding his stomach from the effort of not laughing. "Father, we have more power in our little fingers than Voldemort has in his entire body!" Draco gasped, finally succumbing to laughter.
Lucius stared at them. "Wha---" he managed to gasp.
Harry rolled his eyes. "I guess we'll have to show him, then." Raising his hand, he linked his fingers with Draco's and they effortlessly raised their auras. Narcissa walked back in just in time to feel a gale force wind whip through the entrance hall, slamming Lucius into the door. He fell to his knees and the earth bucked and heaved. He fell, prostrate, to the ground, trying to find purchase in the heaving and roiling earth.
Narcissa watched from the doorway as just the front hall was affected. "Oh my, they HAVE learned control! Excellent! Good show, my son." She turned and left.
Harry and Draco stopped the impressive display of power, one that had used up one one-billionth of their separate abilities. Think that did it? Draco asked hopefully.
Lucius stood up shaking, staring at his son as if he had never seen him before. "Are you sure you're my Draconis?" he asked shrewdly.
Draco rolled his eyes. "Yes, Father, I am your son Draco." Lucius stared at him and shook his head.
"Well, my Lord- AAARGH!!!!!" the older man yelled, clasping his temples in agony. "My son," he gasped, tears leaking form his eyes. "Get out of here, it's a setup, Voldemort and Clautius are coming, go, I love you." He screamed again in pain.
Harry and Draco stared at him. "FATHER????" Draco yelled, covering the elder Malfoy's hands with his own. Angrily, they pushed into Lucius's mind and felt absolute evil radiating back, controlling every movement, every word, locking him inside his own mind as a prisoner.
Stunned, they flew from his mind. Lucius stared back at them coolly, the evil once again controlling him. "Father, don't worry. We will get you out of there," Draco promised. With that, they Apparated back to Hogwarts, missing Clautius by minutes.
A scream of rage could be heard echoing from Malfoy Manor until the early hours of the morning.
Alone in his mind, Lucius Malfoy wept bitter tears and felt, for the first time since his release from Azkaban, when Clautius, through his creation- the Dementors- had taken over his body, a ray of hope. Give 'em hell, son.
A/N: DUN DUN DUN! Yay! A new chapter and the replacement of the Author's note! Thanks again to everyone who responded! You are all wonderful!