Harry Potter and the Fire of Life

by Omagic

Abandoned. 6th year. Harry's grief and the burden of the prophecy require him to make important decisions about his life. His trusts, where he seeks guidance, and the world around him are brought into question. New magic, mysterious visions and the Fir

18. Freedom

Chapter 18: Freedom

The week had flown by faster than any other this summer for Harry. Though he was beginning to physically exhibit signs of sleep deprivation, the gains he and his friends were making more than made up for it. His self-imposed training schedule may have kept him busier than he had ever been during his OWL studies, but it also guaranteed that his mind was rarely ever free to dwell on Voldemort and all the burdens he felt. Better to be lost in training, than to be lost in doubt; or so Harry convinced himself.

He spent most of the day downstairs in the training corridor with Ron, Hermione, and Neville working on the animagus transformation and other subjects. While Harry was well ahead of the rest of the group due to his training earlier in the summer with Sirius, Hermione's dedication to the books available in the corridor provided an additional source that ensured fresh new curses and hexes were never in short order.

The early mornings were spent with Dudley in the exercise room that he and Dobby had prepared. To the annoyance of Dobby, Dudley had taken a liking to the elf and commonly requested that he be around whenever Harry was not available to train. To Harry's surprise, Dudley said that this affinity was due to the elf's apparent lack of judgment either for or against him. Unfortunately for Dudley, Dobby's restrained opinions were only the result of the loyalty he felt towards Harry. It was an interesting relationship, but one that was extremely helpful to Harry, and because of this Dobby never made a complaint.

Ginny and Harry had found time after lunch and dinner each day to begin practicing Occlumency together. Harry explained to the bold young witch what he had learned over the summer. Though he failed to include how opening his mind to the sensations of the world around him had been the trigger for his black eyes. Instead he explained that his shortcomings had been the result of his inability to clear his mind. Ginny listened to him intently whenever he spoke about Occlumency, which he noticed was a clear change from her affronting personality at any other time. It wasn't a rude disposition, but Harry had come to the opinion that Ginny was less than happy with him.

The evening sessions were the reason why Harry wasn't sleeping as much as he should. Actually the sessions were what the wizard used to keep himself awake. Despite the fact that he had finally taken the potion and pricked his finger on the Shimmering Scybiscus, Harry still couldn't sleep. Whenever he reached that calm that occurred every night as he closed his eyes to sleep, he either began worrying about the many responsibilities he felt, or lost his mind to the sensations around him causing his sight to take over. As a result, he spent the time when he should have been sleeping, awake and training inside the pensieve with Sirius.

The first few times into the pensieve had been the hardest for Harry because he desperately wanted to seek Sirius' advice, but the fact that it would take most of the night catching Sirius up on all that occurred made this nearly impossible. So, he resolved that it would be best just for to use the time training. Mostly he continued the regimen that Sirius had begun over the summer, working between Charms, Transfigurations, and Defense Against the Dark Arts then ending each session with a duel.

As before, Sirius showed Harry many different ways to combine various spells together so that the wand movement of one blended seamlessly into the next. In addition, he was teaching Harry about wand movements he called "ties". "Ties" served to combine one grouping of spells together with a grouping of another, making it possible to cast what seemed like a seamless array of spells without stopping. As he learned about the topic Harry was reminded of the way Dumbledore moved the night he took out Fudge and Umbrigde in his office. It was like a dance, and already Harry was seeing ways to improve on it with the footwork he was learning from his boxing sessions with Dudley.

Though it didn't seem to be benefiting Harry, he spent a great deal of time in the pensieve discussing with Sirius the animagus transformation. Harry had yet to make any ground with his transformation, beyond turning his eyes black, and was growing extremely frustrated. Both Neville and Ron had been able to change their voices to their animal forms, and Neville had even managed to change his hands once. Only Harry and Hermione were the ones to not make any progress. Hermione, mostly because she was still in denial about her form, but Harry couldn't get past his eyes. In fact he was beginning to doubt again whether the change in his eyes were connected to his animagus form.

Sirius again reminded him of the trigger and told him to not force it. Every time he harped on the fact that finding your animagus transformation was about accepting that you had another being as a part of you. Had Sirius had a corporeal form, Harry would have choked him for the constant repetition of this mantra. "Give in to the other form; accept that it is you just like you accept that your hand is a part of your body. Reach out for the feeling of you as your animal and the transformation will follow." Sirius would tell him every time the topic was brought up. After a week of little sleep and even less success with the transformation, Harry just wanted to reach out and feel his hand slapping Sirius across the face.

It wasn't until the end of the following week that Remus was able to take Harry and the other students to Diagon Alley. Nobody was surprised by the fact that they had to be there during the deserted hours of the early morning, but it still didn't stop Ron from complaining. So as the signs in the doors along Diagon Alley had only just been set to "open" the five Gryffindors and the former Hogwarts professor strolled down the nearly empty street.

"So are we off for some breakfast then?" Ron moaned through a yawn.

"Your mum just cooked us breakfast before we got here." Hermione snapped. The witch had grown steadily more irritated with each day that she hadn't shown improvement with her animagus transformation. "Besides, we aren't here to fanny about!" she said and stormed ahead of the group.

"Well if she ever does turn into a monkey she won't be short of any branches to swing on." Ron said tersely.

This caused Remus to cough a few times before he gathered his composure. "Alright, Harry and I need to go to Gringott's you lot are welcome to join us but you'll have to wait in the lobby while we attend to our vaults."

"Those goblins give me the willies. If it's all the same Remus I think I'll make my way over to Fortesque's and get some morning pastries." Ron said.

Ginny and Neville also thought that wasn't a bad idea despite Hermione's earlier comment and joined Ron. "Very well, but be sure to keep a keen eye. I don't need Molly's wrath should I return with any less of you than I came with." Remus said.

Harry hurried ahead to catch up with Hermione. Just like everyone else he had been growing tired of her worsening attitude, but being that he too was struggling with his animagus he understood the girl's frustration. Harry figured that Hermione was even more frustrated that Ron and Neville were learning the transformation faster than her, than she was at not making gains with her form.

"Hermione wait up." Harry called.

The girl just stopped in her place but didn't turn to face Harry. "C'mon Hermione, do you really have to be like this? This is the first day that we've gotten out of Grimmauld place in over two weeks." Harry said.

She took a deep breath before answering, "I'm sorry Harry, I really am. I know that the three of you must hate me by now." Hermione resumed her slow walk towards Gringott's

"We don't hate you Hermione, though I may have been inspired to look up a few extra hexes on account of your bad attitude these past few days." Harry said and nudged the girl in her side.

She tried to fight back the smile that was threatening to break her stony glare. "I'm really not jealous that Ron and Neville are doing well with their animagus transformations" she said with a softened tone.

"Please Hermione, I've known you going on six years now." Harry said with a fixed stare at the girl.

"I'm not!" she protested, "I'm really happy that they are doing so well, and it's nice to see that their gains have inspired them to work even harder at it." Hermione said convincingly as she resumed her emotionless stare into the distance.

Harry leaned into the girl's side, "But it's driving you batty that their pulling it off faster than you are." Harry teased.

Hermione turned her gaze quickly to the gob stones underfoot, "No" She said defiantly. She could feel Harry's continued stare bore into the side of her head and that same smile from before again made its way to the surface. "A little." She murmured. Harry continued to stare. "Fine it's driving me bloody nuts!" she said with a full on smile as she shoved Harry away from her.

"Was that so hard?" Harry said as he regained his balance.

"Hard? Do you want to know what's hard? Hard, is having to accept that I am just as much a monkey as I am human. Hard is having to watch Ron, who has never shown a desire for anything but Quiddich, learn his transformation without putting in an iota of the work I have. Hard, is…." Hermione halted as she watched Harry smugly at her. "What are you looking so satisfied about?"

"The great Hermione Granger, usually so calm and mature; it seems that the jealous little witch beneath has made her way to the surface." Harry taunted.

Whatever mixture of smile and frustration that was on Hermione's face instantly fell off. "Forget it Harry, I shouldn't have expected you to understand." She said curtly.

"Oh Hermione I was just teasing." Harry said quickly. "What did I say that was so bad?"

Hermione just turned her head away from Harry so that she couldn't see his pleading gaze. Harry defeated this tactic by simply stepping to the other side of Hermione. She tried to turn her head away again, but Harry just stepped back into view. "Stop it!" she screamed.

"Fine then talk to me and stop acting like I called you bad names." Harry urged back.

"Just leave it." She demanded but Harry continued to stare, "I don't want to talk about it okay?" Harry stopped walking and put his hands stiffly on his hips. "Fine!" Hermione shouted and looked back at Remus who was still a ways behind them. "But keep walking."

Harry resumed his place next to Hermione and watched as she took another heavy breath. "I just…just what you said, about how I usually act and my jealousy coming to the surface." She looked to Harry hoping to see a look of understanding on his face. She had to swallow a hard lump in her throat when she saw no such recognition. "I'm just insecure." Harry's eyes widened, "About you wanting me around…all of you…as your friend." She added quickly.

The two had finally reached the marble steps to the entrance of Gringott's, and Hermione fell dejectedly into a sitting position upon the first one. Harry sat close beside her, "What are you talking about Hermione, of course we want you around." Harry thought for a second, "I want you around, you're my best friend. And I can't believe that you'd be insecure over anything. You've always been the best at everything."

"That's not true, you're the best at Defense Against the Dark Arts." Hermione interrupted. "And now Neville and Ron are better than me with the animagus transformation."

"Hermione you're the top student at Hogwarts, and you're a prefect. And my being better at Defense is more a matter of survival than anything else." Harry leaned into Hermione, "between you and me, I just think Ron is more of a natural when it comes to acting like an animal than either of us, and that's why he's doing so much better." He whispered.

Harry couldn't see Hermione's face because she had it tucked between her body and legs as she sat with her knees bent to her forehead, but he did see her ears rise slightly. "It's not like I'm doing much better myself, I've only been able to make my bloody eyes turn black." Harry added.

Hermione picked her head up but still stared off aimlessly, "Please Harry, it could be worse."

Harry thought about that comment for a second and had to fight the urge to reply with one of the many different responses that came to mind. Instead he settled on, "Really?"

Hermione chanced a quick glare and then diverted it away, "At least your animal form has never resorted to throwing its feces as a defense mechanism." She said deftly. Hermione waited a long moment for Harry to respond before the uncomfortable silence made her look over at the boy.

Harry was nearly purple in the face and his eyes were tearing from trying to hold in the explosive laughter building inside him. Hermione's jaw nearly fell off her face in disbelief as she realized the boy's reaction. "That is not funny." She said harshly.

Harry shook his head and continued to contain his laughter, though he had to enlist the help of hiding his face behind a hand that he placed over his forehead. Hermione continued to stare as small grunts and snickers escaped from Harry. "Harry James Potter, I swear…" she had to stop herself as a bit of the infectious laughter threatened to intrude into her scolding. She composed herself and started over, "Harry…" the laughter resurfaced in her voice. "Stop it!" she yelled, this time laughing outwardly and pushing Harry's hand away from his face.

Harry took a deep breath, "Malfoy…I'm just imagining Draco…shite all over his slicked back hair…monkey shite…" Harry couldn't bear it any longer and guffawed violently as he revealed his mental image. Hermione tried to maintain her resolve but quickly joined her best friend in his uncontrolled laughter.

"What are you two carrying on about?" Remus asked as he approached the laughing teens, though neither was capable of answering through their laughter. Remus shook his head, "Very well then, are you ready…"

---

"Are you ready Mr. Potter?" Professor McGonagall said from the library door at Grimmauld place.

Remus Lupin had told her that he was going to be escorting the four sixth year Gryffindor students to Diagon Alley and requested that she visit Grimmauld Place in order to get the students' course schedules set before the trip.

"Hurry along Mr. Potter, I haven't all day."

"Yes professor," Harry said as Neville passed him from having just finished with the Deputy Headmistress. "In a right mood today." Neville whispered.

"Mr. Longbottom, I will appreciate your not whispering about me when I am only just down the hallway." The professor said with no particular emotion.

Neville paled and hurried his pace as Harry passed Professor McGonagall to enter the library. "Good day Professor McGonagall." he said politely.

"Good day to you Mr. Potter, have you your schedule form for next year?" She asked as she took a seat at the nearest table in the library.

"No professor, I'm afraid the schedule was lost during the attack."

McGonagall's face softened for a moment before she composed her emotions, "Goodness boy, were you not intending to inform anyone?" Harry made to speak but a sharp glance indicated that the question was rhetorical. Professor McGonagall reached into her small satchel and retrieved a blank form; "It is certainly a good thing Mr. Lupin informed me that you would be off to Diagon Alley later this week. I dare say you would have had a right time trying to buy books for courses you did not yet know you were taking."

He didn't know how, but Professor McGonagall always had a way of disarming him when he spoke with her. "I'm sorry professor, I haven't really had time to consider that." He answered truthfully.

"Really?" she said with a single raised eyebrow, "than what, may I ask, were you intending to accomplish on your trip to Diagon Alley?"

"Oh, well I have some business to attend to on account of my godfather's will." Harry answered, surprising even himself with the suddenness and quality of the answer.

For the second time, Professor McGonagall had to hide her concern from the boy. "I see, well it's good for you that Mr. Lupin had the clarity of mind to also consider your education."

"Yes ma'am." Harry simply responded.

McGonagall paused, fighting the urge to break her professional tone, she compensated by examining the results sheet she had for Harry's OWL scores in front of her. "May I presume that you will continue onto NEWT level courses for all those you qualified?"

"I'm not sure that I'm familiar which courses those are?" Harry asked.

"Charms, Herbology, Care of Magical Creatures, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Transfigurations, and Potions." The professor listed as she continued to examine the sheet of parchment in front of her. "A nice bit of work earning an Outstanding on your Potions results Mr. Potter."

"Thank you ma'am, yes I believe that I should continue with all of those courses. Would you suggest differently?" Harry asked.

This caused Professor McGonagall to turn her stare to Harry. Again she paused, but this time she took off her glasses and set them on the table. "Mr. Potter…Harry, I am concerned that my – unfriendly terms with Doloris Umbridge may have provoked me to be a little over-zealous when I encouraged you to pursue being an Auror. I am worried that maybe my anxiousness to support you in spite of Ms. Umbridge may have given you the impression that you had to pursue a career as an Auror. As your Head of House I always encourage that you challenge yourself to get the most from your education. But Harry, I don't want you to feel obligated to pursue a career as an Auror due to my rash comments."

Harry wasn't sure what to do with all of that. He had been unsure whether Auror training was the future he wanted to work towards, but it was still the only choice he could think of. "I appreciate your concern professor. I guess I don't want to have to take every NEWT course just because I qualify. But for now I think I still would like to be an Auror – that is if the Ministry isn't continued to be run by a bunch of barmy gits." Harry murmered.

"Mr. Potter!" McGonagall said crossly.

"What, you can't tell me that an administration that would appoint Umbridge as the acting Headmaster isn't barmy." Harry argued.

The creases in McGonagall's eyes connected as the hint of a smile grew over her face. "Well you do have a point there. But I will ask that you refrain from such comments inside of Hogwarts." She was happy to see a smile break on Harry's face for the first time. "As I told you last year, you will need to earn an E or better in Transfigurations, Charms, Potions, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and one other course in order to qualify for Auror training. Generally I suggest that you take either Care of Magical Creatures, or Herbology as one of your other NEWT level courses, along with one elective for which you may take the NEWT testing in."

Harry thought for a moment. "Well I'd rather stay in Care of Magical Creatures than Herbology, but what other electives are there for me to consider?"

"Selection of your elective may help influence where you go with your Auror's training. I would suggest that you begin studying Runes or Arithmancy if you wish to work in any of the forensic fields as they will help you analytic abilities. A course in Healing has also become available this year as Professor Firenze has agreed to stay on and Professor Trelawny will be returning to Divination. Study in Healing is always beneficial as it is a requirement for all Aurors."

Again Harry considered his options, studying Runes intrigued him if for no other reason than the possibility of finding a way to improve Sirius' pensieve. However, the Healing class also seemed interesting especially since his recent experience with healing his own shoulder. "I think maybe the Healing course would be best then." Harry answered.

"Excellent, then as usual I will have your timetable ready for you after the opening feast when you return to Hogwarts." Professor McGonagall finished filling out Harry's schedule form and tucked it away in her bag. Harry began to stand up but was stopped by the professor, "One last thing Mr. Potter. I have come to the decision that either you or Mr. Weasley should fill the respective roles of Prefect and Quiddich Captain." Harry returned to his seat as McGonagall pulled out a model size version of a broom.

"Engorgio" she said and flicked her wand. The tiny broom quickly grew and as its features came into focus Harry recognized it as his Firebolt. McGonagall was inwardly pleased to see the boyish grin emerge on Harry's face that she had come to love over the years.

"As I was saying Mr. Potter, while I commend both you and Mr. Weasley for your fine OWL scores. I am weary at placing the responsibility of both Prefect and Quiddich Captain on either of your shouders. I am aware that the Headmaster informed you last year as to why you were not initially made prefect." Harry's face soured when she mentioned the conversation. "And as it stands, you are also the most qualified person for Quiddich Captain – now that your life-time ban has been lifted. You may want to thank Ms. Ginny Weasley for a very exhuberant, but unnecessary argument as to why you be allowed to play again this year." She said with a glare over top her glasses. "However, considering you and Mr. Weasley's study habits over the past five years, I am unconvinced that the OWL scores you two earned are not just the reflection of some headstrong encouragement from Ms. Granger. As a result, I believe the best decision is to delegate one of each responsibility between the two of you."

Harry shifted in his seat, "Erm, I'm not sure professor. Don't get me wrong I appreciate the honor, but…"

"I have spoken already with Mr. Weasley and he requests that you should choose." McGonagall said knowingly.

Great, Harry thought to himself. "Well, I think that Ron would make a better Quiddich captain. He's more dedicated to the sport, and he knows a lot more about it than I do. Besides, aside from the one game I played last year, the person playing Keeper has always been captain."

"Then it is decided." McGonagall reached into her bag and placed the Gryffindor Prefect badge on the table in front of Harry. "Congratulations Mr. Potter, I expect that you will treat this responsibility with the proper respect it deserves."

"Yes ma'am." Harry began to rise from his seat once again.

"Mr. Potter, I am aware of the conversation you shared with the Headmaster earlier this summer. As a school prefect I must stress that that sort of misguided dialogue be avoided entirely." She said as she gathered her belongings and stood herself. "Good day Mr. Potter."

Harry watched Professor McGonagall make her way out of the library. He had several barbed comments burning at the tip of his tongue, but couldn't muster the nerve to let them fly. The restraint irritated him, but he couldn't justify screaming at the Deputy Headmistress, particularly since she hadn't been confrontational about it.

McGonagall turned before she left. "I believe Mr. Weasley is waiting anxiously to hear the outcome of our conversation Mr. Potter."

---

"I'm waiting" Remus said.

Hermione and Harry finally composed themselves and Harry extended his hand to help the girl up from the step she was sitting on.

"You repeat this conversation to no one." Hermione whispered when Harry finished pulling her up. "They wouldn't believe me if I did." Harry replied as the two made their way up the marble steps behind Remus.

A loud thud rang through the empty entrance chamber of Gringott's when the large burnished bronze door slammed shut behind the group. Harry and Hermione jumped from the noise causing the guard at the door to laugh and muse to himself in gobbledygook. They ignored the incomprehensible taunt and continued past the silver doors leading to the bank's Main Hall. Only a few wizards attended to their accounts this early in the morning, but despite the lack of customers all one hundred goblins where present on their high stools and hard at work. A few of the nearest Goblins gave the three early arrivals disapproving looks, which made the trio's presence seem even more unwelcome.

"I hate Gringott's in the morning" Remus mumbled to Harry. "I don't think there is any other time when I feel more like a sucker waiting to be taken for all I got."

Hermione didn't say a word, but instead moved to Harry's side, "I've never been here when there were so few other people." She said nervously.

The three made their way to the nearest counter that was attended by a Goblin who had not given them a dirty look. "May I help you?" said the Goblin without looking up from his paperwork.

"Yes my companion and I are here to visit vaults that have been opened under our names." Remus replied.

"Very well, your companion may provide," the Goblin looked up from his papers, "his key to Mr. Tapknock on my left, I sir can attend to your account."

Harry was hesitant to follow the goblins direction but Remus told him that there was no reason to worry and that he would be waiting in the lobby when Harry returned. "Key please" boomed the unexpectedly deep voice of Tapknock. Harry extended the felt bags that Sirius had given him with the pensieve to the goblin. Tapknock looked over to his right and saw that his associate was also receiving a similar felt bag from Remus. "Very interesting Mr. Potter." The goblin said with a practiced nod. "I believe I will escort you to your vault myself."

Harry was surprised that the goblin knew who he was, and he instinctively pushed his bangs over his scar while he and Hermione followed Tapknock to their cart. "H-Harry, I was too nervous before to consider this, but are you sure you're okay with me being here for this?" Hermione asked.

"Of course Hermione. It's not like I'm worried about you seeing how much gold I have. Besides I'm going to need you to help me remember where everything is." Harry replied.

"Why would you need help with that?" Hermione asked as the cart began moving.

Harry raised the larger of the two felt bags for Hermione to see, "Because once we know where everything is in the vault, we can retrieve it from anywhere in the world using this bag." Hermione flashed a look of excitement and Harry knew the girl would be buried in some book this evening trying to figure out how the bag worked.

The trip to the vault took Harry deeper beneath Gringott's than he had been before. Eventually the cart stopped in front of a massive copper-steel door with the number 514 on it. It was different from Harry's other vault in that it was some distance from the other vaults around it. In fact the vault sat on its own abutment from the cavern, as did the five others that were within seeing distance.

"This way." Tapknock said and then stroked the door to remove the enchantments over it. "Please summon the key from the bag Mr. Potter."

Harry did as the goblin requested, a bit surprised that the key was in fact in the bag when he reached into it. They watched the large door open in front of them and Hermione's jaw fell open when the view inside became clear, "There's so many…"

---

"…Prisoners my Lord." Goyle senior announced dumbly from inside the entrance to Azkaban prison. Beside him lay three dead wizards, the makeshift guard assembled to keep track of those who entered and exited the prison.

"An acute observation wouldn't you say Peter?" Voldemort said dryly. The silver-armed animagus shook his head clumsily as he stood noticeably trembling in his place.

"Y-yes m-my Lord." Pettigrew stammered. He knew that the other Death Eaters would mistake his quivering as cowardice, but in fact it was the result of being so near the Dementors. The demons' presences were torturing his mind with visions of betrayal and murder.

A small horde of Dementors rushed to engage the group of Death Eaters casually making their way between the rows of prison cells. Their pursuit quickly halted when Voldemort lowered the dark brown hood from his head and presented himself to the demons. The only movement came from a large, imposing looking wizard who trailed just behind the pack of Dementors. When he finally pushed his way to the front he froze in place, terrified at the sight he took in before him.

Voldemort took a deep sniff of the putrid prison air and then smiled sinisterly at the guard. "My friends, I have come to free you from this unjust and torturous situation the wizarding world has imposed upon you." The sounds of prisoners cheering and banging on the bars of their cells echoed through the chasm inside Azkaban. "No longer do you have to suffer the scent of fear and pain, yet be so cruelly denied a taste of it." A quieter cheer and fewer bangs followed. "You once stood next to me as we fought together to show the people of this world their place…at our feet." Dementors began gathering by the dozens in front of Voldemort. "And I have returned to offer you a chance at that freedom once again." The prisoners' cheers turned to a low mumble of concern.

Voldemort turned to his group of Death Eaters, "Go and gather my followers. Do it quickly!" He ordered. Eight white masked Death Eaters darted up the stairs, a chorus of pleas following them as they passed each occupied cell. The Dark Lord turned his cold stare down to Pettigrew who was now lying on the floor, heaving violently while strands of drool fell from his mouth "Get up you pathetic fool! This worthless prison guard has better refinement than you, and he's about to die!"

The burning red eyes turned their gaze upward in time to see the large wizard soiling the front of his pants. "Well, almost." Voldemort flicked his wrist and murmured an incantation so quickly that to the guard it looked like the wand and spell had simply appeared from the Dark Lord's hand. The spell bound him completely, and the mortified wizard listened as he heard precisely the thing he was praying would not be commanded. "My friends please allow me to offer the first sample, a taste of the changes to come."

In absolute horror, the guard watched as the largest Dementor from the group surrounding him approached. He felt the cold begin to overtake him as the creature pushed its affect completely into his mind and he only wished to be able to close his eyes so that he didn't have to see what was to come. Over the sound of the pleading prisoners above, Peter Pettigrew could be heard whimpering as the prison guard received the Dementor's kiss.

Voldemort leaned down to his distraught follower. "You will stand like a man, or you will squirm like a rat, but you will not cry like a child while you reside next to me. I assure you that no further warning will ever be given regarding this topic." Peter shivered in recognition then transformed into a rat, and scurried frantically for the front door.

Eight white masked individuals led a pack of ten ragged prisoners back down the staircase towards their master. Though stained and knotted, the long white hair of Lucius Malfoy was easily distinguished as he emerged from the pack and knelt before the Dark Lord. "My Lord, we are forever indebted that you have freed us from our imprisonment. You are the greatest wizard alive and we are honored to return to your service."

"The last servant who resided at my knee I sent out of here under the ultimatum of death, and since you aren't capable of reducing yourself to a rat I suggest you remove yourself before I make that spot your final resting place." Voldemort spun on his heel and threw his hood back over his head. "Malfoy, it seems that even after months of imprisonment you are still ignorant to your greatest flaw," he turned to face the ragged, "you think too much of yourself. Your overconfidence has cost me dearly, and were it not a matter of convenience to free you and all those who you led to the Ministry, I would have been content to let you rot."

"But, I will find use for you yet," He said and motioned Malfoy to step closer to him. "I should kill you for what you have cost me, my Bella is dead, yet Potter still lives, and all the while you have wasted here in prison. Apparently you are as useless to me as Pettigrew." He hissed into the scared Death Eater's ear. "On your knees." Voldemort commanded.

Lucius lowered himself in front of the Dark Lord, shaking as he felt his fear intensified by the chilling affects the Dementors where having on his mind. The combination was so severe that he only just made out the sound of Voldemort speaking the Cruciatus curse. The spell felt like daggers were ripping through his body, tearing at his inside from every angle. But even worse was that every Dementor witnessing his torture fed on the fear and pain; the combined physical and mental anguish had him wishing for death.

As he held Malfoy under the Cruciatus curse Voldemort ordered the rest of his Death Eaters to do the same to the remaining prisoners. One by one cries of pain filled the room, and slowly the Dementors began to hiss from the tease of so much pain available to them. Voldemort released the curse and watched Malfoy's body twitch involuntarily as it lay in a heap on the floor. "My friends," he announced to the Dementors, "I offer you that which has been denied to you for so long." His red eyes darted to the white masked Death Eaters signaling them to escort the freed prisoners out of the fortress. "every soul that remains is…"

---

"…all yours Harry?" Hermione asked with astonishment. "This vault must be as large as the training corridor!"

The two Gryffindors stood at the entrance to Harry's vault, a light glow of gold reflecting on their faces from the piles of galleons stacked in front of them. Inside, the vault was not only filled with gold, but scattered throughout lay various tomes and rolls of parchment, as well as swords, cauldrons, and gems. An Old portrait hung from the wall of the vault and watched as Harry and Hermione slowly entered unaware of his presence.

"You are not a descendent of the Black Family, under what authority do you enter this vault?" The portrait of Cepheus Black demanded.

"Great." Harry said dejectedly, "another portrait of one of Sirius' relatives."

"You dare mock me boy? Are you a friend of my Great-Grandson, if so then I ask why he has not accompanied you into this vault." Cepheus yelled.

"I am the godson of Sirius Black, portions of the Black Family Vault were left to me after he was murdered by Bellatrix Lestrange." Harry answered stoically.

"You say Bellatrix Black murdered my great-grandson?"

"Yes, though she was Bellatrix Lestrange when she murdered my godfather." Harry stated.

"You say she was Bellatrix Lestrange, are you mistaken when you speak of this descendant in the past-tense?" Cepheus asked calmly.

"No, she is also dead," Harry glanced over at Hermione before turning back to the portrait.

"Interesting news you bring boy. Am I to presume that you carried out this sentence?" The man sat down into the chair in his portrait.

"I played my part in it, but only after she attacked me and my family at my home and attempted to take me prisoner to Voldemort." Harry stated.

Hermione gasped as she listened to this bit of information, but Harry didn't care what reaction the girl had. "Hmm, and this witch, she does not wear a band around her finger, is she betrothed to you in some way?" Cepheus asked.

"I am his friend." Hermione said before Harry could answer.

"I am Cepheus Black, son of Phineas Negellas Black of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Black." The portrait stated proudly, "Though your actions lead me to believe that you have descended from our line, I must assume that as the godson of my great-grandson you are not. What is your lineage child?"

"I am Harry Potter, my parents were James Potter and Lily Evans." Harry said trying to imitate the pride the portrait had spoken with.

"Potter you say, I am familiar with this family. Am I correct in assuming that the name Evans is derived from a muggle family, as that was the way of the Potter's?" Cepheus said with no particular conviction.

"Yes it does." Harry said challengingly.

"Mind your tone boy. I hold no disdain for this practice, should a pure-blood family wish to tarnish their bloodline with muggle children than that is their own business."

"Excuse me Mr. Black, may I ask why you are here?" Hermione asked.

"I am here because this is where I was placed young lady." Cepheus answered.

"No sir, I am curious why you are not hung inside a home." Hermione clarified.

"That is a question for a descendant of the House of Black. I was placed in the family vault many years ago and have resided there until my recent move here. Though I must assume that my role is to act as an advisor on the contents within this vault. As that is the most common practice when placing a portrait in such a place."

"Is that what you will do for me sir?" Harry asked.

"Unless I am moved from this vault I don't see any other use for me. I can't say that I approve of your inheriting these contents. They have remained in my family since long before I was born, but it is no longer my place to dispute such things." Cepheus said and then turned his back to the students.

"Well I guess it's an improvement from Mrs. Black." Harry said to Hermione.

"Indeed." She answered.

The two students split up and began examining the items within the vault. As would be expected Hermione spent her time silently looking through the texts and scrolls of parchment, letting out an occasional gasp of excitement when she discovered something particularly interesting. Harry spent his time looking at the different magical artifacts and weapons. And only after he burned himself while handling a wooden staff did Cepheus Black speak up to chastise him for not taking caution to consider the dangers of handling artifacts he knew nothing about. "Careful boy, you may find yourself possessed with some manifestation your young body isn't yet prepared to handle." The portrait warned.

Tapknock cleared his throat to gather the attention of Harry, "Mr. Potter, with an account of this status might I interest you in some helpful services provided by Gringott's? For instance you may want to dedicate a portion of your account in some very safe but higher interest earning investments. I, of course would be more than happy to help you with such opportunities."

Harry was reminded of Remus' earlier comment about feeling like a sucker. "Erm, I'm not so sure that I'm the best person to make these decisions." Harry answered politely.

Tapknock examined a piece of parchment in his hands, "You are the owner of this account Sir, as well as another smaller, but also active account. I would think that you are the only person who should be making such decisions. Of course, it is not my place to determine these things."

Hermione was listening to the conversation by now, and when Harry looked to her she could only offer an unsure shrug. "You might want to talk to Remus first." She suggested.

"Mr. Potter, not to push, but Gringott's prides itself on employing the best financial advisors in all of Europe. If consultation is what you desire, then I am confident that you will find no better service with anyone else."

Harry looked up to the portrait of Cepheus Black, wondering if the man's expression would reveal his opinion of the situation. "Don't look to me Mr. Potter, as the goblin has pointed out, you are the owner of this vault." He said with certain snootiness.

"But you said that you were put here to advise me on the contents of this vault." Harry argued.

"Are you asking for my advice?" Cepheus said furtively.

"It would be helpful." Harry snapped back.

The old man glared at Harry for a moment, "I have warned you about your tone child. As for my advice I will suggest that you do as you wish, though at no time has any member of the House of Black ever sought the financial advice of a goblin." Cepheus said as he shot Tapknock a disapproving stare.

Harry thought for a long moment and then looked up to the portrait, "May I ask you one other question?" Cepheus raised his eyebrows in response, "Sirius told me that this bag," he held forward the large felt item bag for Cepheus to see, "can be used to retrieve any item as long as I know where it is in the vault. Since you are erm…an item in this vault, is it possible that I can talk to you through it when I wish to retrieve other items?"

The man sneered at being referred to as an item, "That seems like a reasonable assumption, though I suggest you confer with the goblin to be sure." Tapknock nodded silently that the portrait was correct.

"Fine then, Tapknock we're ready to leave and I think that I will take you up on your offer." Harry said.

"Harry, do you mind if I take these two books with me?" Hermione asked and showed Harry a book on defensive shields and another about the history of magical creatures. "I think that this one might be helpful for the DA." She said as she indicated the defensive shields book.

"And the other," Harry asked.

"Oh, well I thought there might be something about house-elves in it" she responded.

"That's fine." Harry said, and after saying goodbye to Cepheus they returned to the Main Hall. Harry asked Hermione if she would mind waiting for Remus while he spoke with the goblins about his vault. Really he needed an excuse for the girl not to be around because he wanted to talk about the SPEW organization that Sirius had left in his will for her.

Tapknock escorted Harry into a conference room outside of the Main Hall. The walls of the room were lined with bookcases that extended to that ceiling and were filled with similar leather-bound books. In the center of the room eight large leather chairs surrounded a rectangular wooden table with a high gloss finish. Harry had never seen the inside of a law office before, but this room looked exactly as he would have imagined one in such a place to appear.

"Please Mr. Potter have a seat where ever you like. May I have one of my colleagues bring you some refreshments?" said Tapknock as he nodded towards another goblin that Harry recognized as Griphook.

"Griphook?" Harry asked to confirm that his recognition was correct. Both Goblins stared at each other in surprise and then spoke in Gobbledygook to each other.

"Yes Mr. Potter, very nice to see you again. Is there anything I may provide you while you are waiting sir?"

Harry declined and sat in the chair closest to him as he listened to Tapknock confer in Gobbledygook with another Goblin who was following him into the room. As he listened to the indecipherable language Harry started to doubt the intelligence of his decision.

"Mr Potter, this is Morvac, he is one of the prestigious financial advisors I spoke to you about earlier." Tapknock stated.

A dark skinned, bald goblin, taller than both Tapknock and Griphook, stepped forward and nodded politely. He was thinner than any other Harry had seen but his most distinguishing characteristic was the manner in which he kept his beard. From above the corners of his mouth, long, white, whisker-like hairs grew downward and blended into a pointy white beard that hung to the middle of his stomach. It was hard to discern what was more striking, the sharp contrast of the lengthy white hair against his dark skin, or the lack of hair in between the whiskers above his top lip. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance Mr. Potter. I hope that my services can be of use." Morvac spoke in a smooth voice, unlike the typical scratchy growl of most goblins.

"Thank you, but I'm not sure what those services are." Harry said honestly, "Though I'm hoping that you might be able to help me with something that isn't directly related to my account."

Morvac looked questioningly at Tapknock before he turned back to Harry, "Well my area of expertise is in investments and financial management. I think it might be best if we started there before exploring services that I am not employed to assist in." he said.

Harry got the impression that the goblin was making more of a demand than a suggestion and therefore only nodded silently in response.

"Well then, there are many different investment opportunities for you to consider. If you wish a low risk investment I would suggest standard bonds. These are however long term investments and the interest rate is controlled in part by the Ministry. Another option is to purchase stock in some of the more stable wizard owned businesses. Again these are lower interest earning investments. If you wish to explore options that have the potential for higher returns you may want to consider opportunities in the real estate sector. High risk…

"Wait, did you say real estate? You mean like purchasing homes and that sort?" Harry asked.

"Well I would advise that you consider something more lucrative than single lot investments, but they are a consideration in the real estate sector." Morvac answered.

"Yes, I want to hear more about that." Harry said anxiously.

Very well, Tapknock bring me…"

---

…my Death Eaters." Voldemort commanded.

Lucius Malfoy bowed shakily before his master and exited the throne room beneath Riddle Manor. He made his way through the dark stone corridors, his eyes wincing slightly as he passed each torch. The months in Azkaban had affected him more than he'd like to admit, that his eyes still could not tolerate even moderate amounts of light was one of many constant reminders that for now he was changed. As he made his way up the stairway he paused to look at his reflection in the window and almost wept at what he saw. The man, who was so proud of his appearance looked haggard. He could see every bone through the skin on his face, and his hair, though now white and clean, was frazzled and dull.

"Our presence is required at once, the Dark Lord wishes to address his followers." Malfoy barked as he entered the great room. "Gather all others and return to the chamber room this instant."

Malfoy noticed Wormtail alone in the corner of the room smirking smugly at him. "Do you have something to say Pettigrew? Or is this smirk just another guise to hide your cowardice?" Some of the exiting Death Eaters paused for a moment at the sudden comment.

"Oh no Malfoy, not cowardice. Just enjoying the site of a once proud man trying to reassert his importance after being such a complete failure." Pettigrew said calmly.

Malfoy sneered at the Death Eaters who remained to watch the interaction causing them to hurry out of the room. "How dare you!" he snarled back at Wormtail. "If you ever mock me in the presence of other again…"

"You'll what?" Peter interrupted. "Surely you wouldn't be so foolish to attack me when your standing with our Lord is so poor."

Malfoy rushed across the room at Pettigrew, "You best mind your place." Lucius said threateningly.

"I know my place. I just wonder if you can now accept yours." Pettigrew said and walked past Malfoy to exit the room.

"An interesting conversation Lucius." The calculating drawl of Severus Snape sounded from behind a chair across the room. "It seems that power struggles are abound these days amongst the legions." He said as he stood to make himself seen.

"Nothing has changed, surely not so much that Pettigrew will ever stand to defy me." Malfoy sneered.

"Oh much has changed Lucius, particularly as it concerns those who will stand to challenge you." Snape responded. "Failing to corral a group of children who were as much as handed to you on a silver platter can have that effect."

"And I suppose you would make a stand as well."

Snape scoffed at the contention, "Please Malfoy, what could I possibly have to gain by trivializing my time on the likes of you. That is an effort reserved for the lower dregs of this legion."

"I will not contend with this continued mockery!" Malfoy yelled.

"Now, now Lucius, it is not my intention to mock you. But despite what you would like to believe, things have changed. The Dark Lord is leery of all those around him. Lestrange's death wrought the taste for advancement, and your failure in such a crucial mission does give hope to others that your once esteemed position may also be available for the taking."

"Nothing has changed, I will prove my value to the Dark Lord."

"If you say so, but you will have to do it without the knowledge of our master's greater plans. Such is his way now, to keep us as individuals in the dark from his grand scheme and from each other." Snape replied coolly and walked toward the room's exit.

"Perhaps you can understand how such a situation might be beneficial to someone with talents such as those of Pettigrew." Snape said without turning back.

Voldemort stood at the head of the great hall below Riddle Manner, his face hidden in shadow beneath the large hood of his cloak. The walls were lined with Dementors surrounding the rows of kneeling Death Eaters that awaited their master's command.

"Tonight we play." Voldemort said softly to his followers. "for too long have I kept you in wait, calculating and pursuing the greater cause. But tonight, I send you out to reek havoc on this undeserving world." A soft collection of hisses came from the Dementors.

"Yes my friends. You have had a sample of the souls that you are due." Voldemort said in response to the demons. "But on this eve, you shall feast on muggle life like never before!"

"Long enough, have muggles walked this earth ignorant to their own inferiority. Long enough have wizards lived in accord with this false pretense. And tonight, I want you to leave these vile muggles with no doubt that this charade has come to an end!" Voldemort yelled and threw his hood back. "But," he said returning to his calm demeanor, "as I told you, tonight we play." A few scattered laughs could be heard from the Death Eaters. "I could send you out and ask you to give me a great massacre, a bloody opera of death and carnage." Grunts of approval were heard. "Yes, this would show them our power. Or, I could send you out to give me an evening of horror, torturing their children and raping their women. This would show them our complete lack of mercy. Or…we could do both!" A louder cacophony of cheers and grunts followed. Voldemort raised his hand to silence the Death Eaters. "But, what purpose would there be in that?" The Dark Lord looked about the room as if he were searching for someone to answer. "No one?" he asked. "We are powerful and we are merciless, and we have no need to confirm these things with muggle or wizard alike. Our cause, our legion, will strike this land with unprecedented might! But tonight I send you out to give me chaos – only, creative chaos. Muggles wish us to be the fixtures of fairy tales and children's fantasies then let us give them an evening of chaos that will forever re-write those false tales! This evening I send you out with no rhyme or reason; our discord will be our ally. Your only order is to ensure that no explanation, no reasoning be possible to explain the mayhem of this night. Kill, maim, torture do as you please, but do it so that there is no question that dark magic was the cause! This, will be our creative chaos."

Voldemort turned and pulled his hood back over his head as he sat on his throne. "Make your preparations, but remember I do not want your attacks to be planned. The more random and creative you are, the greater our purpose will be served. Now go!" At once the Death Eaters and Dementors began leaving the room. "Severus, you will stay I wish to speak with you." There was a general pause in the room, and all heads turned to try to identify which white masked Death Eater was the one being summoned, but none dared wait too long.

As the room cleared Snape fell to the back of the group and then made his way up the great hall to kneel at the Dark Lord's feet. "Stand Severus, and remove your mask." Voldemort said as he pulled down his hood. "You will stay here this evening, after all I wouldn't want my ever so valuable spy lost on a task easily carried out by the general population of our ranks."

Snape didn't dare make eye contact, "Yes my Lord. May I help with the preparations my Lord?"

"So eager to please Severus? I would think that a renowned potions master such as you would find this mission a waste of his skills."

"No my Lord, I would never dare be so presumptuous. I was only considering how I might provide some potions that would better serve the goals of this evenings purpose." Snape replied.

Voldemort took a long pause before answering, "Very good Severus, you may help in the preparations." He watched as Snape bowed and turned to leave, "We will turn this world against itself."

---

"Mr. Potter you should be aware that no wizard has ever requested that goblins take such responsibility in their affairs sir." Morvac said.

Harry looked around at the surprised eyes facing him, "But Tapknock said that Gringott's employs the best financial advisors in all of Europe. I don't understand why this sort of request would be so unusual."

"Yes, but most wizards find that it is their preference to only seek our advice, not to actually request that we oversee their investments." Tapknock interjected.

Harry had listened to the various investments options that the Goblin suggested he consider. In all, he thought the conversation was slightly worse than listening to Professor Binns deliver a History of Magic lesson, only here he was expected to respond to what was being said. Somewhere between listening to the explanation of the benefits of investing in private versus commercial properties Harry decided that he was the last person who should be making these decisions. But as he watched Morvac rattle on without so much as looking to the reference material available, Harry figured that maybe he should let the goblin take care of these things. After all, if they were the best in Europe at this sort of task, how could he possibly go wrong?

Harry also thought that if he made this concession and hired the goblins to manage his investments, maybe he could convince them to take care of getting the Dursley's a new home, and making all the necessary arrangements for establishing SPEW. What Harry wasn't expecting was that his first suggestion, of the Goblins managing his financial investments, would be received with such hesitance.

"Well I guess that most wizards have some know-how when it comes to these things. I personally haven't a clue." Harry replied to Tapknock. Harry noted that it was hard to tell what a goblin was thinking based on how it changed its expressions; usually their appearance was just some variation of a gnarly grimace. But Harry was pretty sure that Tapknock and Morvac were trying to restrain their laughter at Harry's last comment. "It seems to me that the best thing I could do is ask you to oversee any investments that are made from my account."

Morvac stared disbelievingly at Harry, "Mr. Potter, are you suggesting that I oversee your investments?"

Harry swallowed hard and noticed that both Tapknock and Griphook were staring at him astonished as well. "Well…erm…that is if you are…I just thought that is part of what you do, Mr. Morvac. I didn't mean to offend or anything. You just seemed to really know what you were talking about and Tapknock had mentioned that Gringott's had the best financial advisors in Europe, so I thought that maybe, well since I don't know about these things, that I could pay Gringott's to have you oversee my account Mr. Morvac."

Morvac quickly calmed his expression, "Mr. Tapknock, Mr. Griphook, would you please allow Mr. Potter and I a moment alone?" The two goblins rose without a word and exited the room. "Mr. Potter, I am not sure that you fully understand what you are suggesting. No wizard has…trusted a goblin with his personal finances in many years. It is not that your request was offensive, it is just…alarming." He said smoothly. "You must understand that a wizard with an account as sizeable as yours requesting that a goblin manage his investments could come across as a trap of sorts."

It was Harry's turn to look astonished, "I wasn't aware Mr. Morvac," Harry paused as he thought about what the goblin said, "but don't wizards trust goblins with their personal finances whenever they establish an account with Gringott's?"

"There is a considerable difference between trusting that we can keep an individual's holdings accounted for and asking that we oversee how those holdings are invested. You do understand that one does not always gain when investing, no matter how safe an opportunity appears to be, there is always a risk." Morvac replied.

Once again Harry regretted not having Remus around to help him with this decision. But the longing for someone else's advice returned that tinge of rebellion he had felt earlier this summer. No, Sirius left him these things so that he would have the opportunity to make decisions in his life. Good or bad, he was going to see this through himself. "Mr. Morvac, I can't say that I'm really familiar with how wizards and goblins do business. But I do know that I barely understood any of the things you were telling me. When I came here today I really had no intention of seeking any sort of 'financial advice'. I actually don't even know how much my godfather left to me." Harry wasn't sure that he should have revealed that. "I'm sure the portrait of Cepheus Black has an idea, but I didn't even know he existed until today. Really, my only hope in meeting with you, or with someone from Gringott's, was that they could help me buy a new house for my relatives, and help me take care of starting a new organization for my best friend."

Morvac sat silently for a moment before Harry spoke up again, "I am interested in the investment ideas now that you've spent all this time explaining them to me." Harry was more concerned that he wasted the goblin's time, "and if you are willing I would like to pay you to oversee these things for me." Morvac still offered no response. "Isn't this what banks do? I put money in your bank and the bank uses that money for loans and investments so that it can make more money? It seems to me that we can only gain or lose together if you agree to this. The more money I make from investments, the more is in the bank, and the more the bank can use for their investments. Please tell me if I'm wrong." Harry knew he was just blathering on by now.

Again it looked like Morvac smiled. "You make a very convincing argument Mr. Potter. Though it is not unlike many we have heard before. But if what you say is true, than I agree that we both have much to gain. Tell me more of these other concerns you would seek our help with."

Harry gave a brief and un-detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the house he wanted to buy for the Dursley's. Making sure that he emphasized the fact that he didn't want the Dursley's to know that he was paying for the house, and that he didn't want to pay for any more than the amount number four Privet Drive had been worth. Harry noticed that Morvac was taking notes as he was speaking, and hoped that this was an indication that Gringott's could help. After a pause, Harry began a more elaborate explanation of SPEW, which Morvac seemed very interested to hear about. He actually began questioning Harry about the organization and what actions it was planning to pursue, but appeared disappointed when Harry told him that it's only efforts so far had been knitting hats and scarves for the elves at Hogwarts. Finally he told Morvac about the funding Sirius left to Hermione to establish the organization, and also his godfather's terms about werewolves.

Morvac took a few final notes before summoning the other goblins back into the room. Without speaking to Tapknock or Griphook, Morvac spoke up, "Mr. Potter, you are a very interesting wizard. One would expect that with your fame and considerable wealth you would be a much different person. From a personal standpoint your proposition intrigues me, however from a business standpoint I find this an extraordinary opportunity." He looked over at his two goblin associates, "Therefore I am going to accept your offer and personally oversee your investments as well as the other matters you have requested assistance with." Tapknock and Griphook both began rambling anxiously at Morvac in Gobbledygook, but he held up his hand to silence them. "I must however, insist on terms to ensure the safety and reputation of Gringott's." He looked down to his paper, "First, you will be required to transfer a portion of no less than one quarter of the gold in your recently visited vault to a new account which I will manage and put towards investments. Second, Gringott's will receive 20% of whatever earnings are gained from those investments. Third, you will sign a contract stating our agreement, and that it was you who requested our service." Morvac looked again at his associates to see if there were any further disagreements.

Harry thought about the terms for a long while, trying to see if there was anything about them that seemed unfair or more importantly, unsafe. "I only have one condition, I don't want my money to be invested in the Ministry, and I don't want it used to take advantage of anyone. But if you can agree to this and it means that you will take care of all the things we spoke about than I will agree to your terms."

"I find your stipulations to be fair." Morvac replied. "Tapknock, please retrieve for me a copy of our investor's agreement and add the terms Mr. Potter and I have agreed to." Tapknock left the room muttering something to himself in Gobbledygook and Morvac extended his hand across the table to Harry. "Mr. Potter, whether you're aware of it or not, this is a very substantial moment for wizards and goblins alike. Very few agreements have been reached between our kinds since the rebellions and that we should come to this with a prominent wizard such as yourself is all the more impressive."

Harry began to grow weary as Morvac carried on. He was happy about the agreement but he didn't want this to turn into another public fiasco, the last thing he needed was more publicity. Even more, Morvac was making this out as though he was some sort of ambassador, and he was positive he didn't like that. "Mr. Morvac sir, I don't mean to be rude, but I really don't want this to become a big event. You know, in the Daily Prophet and all. It's not that I'm ashamed or anything, I just don't think it would be a good idea with Voldemort after me to go around making my life more public than it already is. Even more so because if he knows about the house or the SPEW organization they will become targets for his Death Eaters."

Griphook winced when Harry spoke the Dark Lord's name, but Morvac remained still, considering Harry's words. "Maybe during less turbulent times we can consider making our agreement more widely known. However I understand your position and assure you that your business with Gringott's shall strictly remain between you and me."

Tapknock walked back into the room, still muttering to himself, and set a small stack of papers between Harry and Morvac. Harry looked at the top paper and noticed that it was blank until Morvac waved his hand over top it. "This is a standard investor's agreement, I apologize but it has been some time since we have needed one of these and it is still written in Old English." After saying this Morvac gave Tapknock a dirty glare. "Please permit me to update it for you." The goblin waved his hand over it again and the words scrambled around. "This document entails the terms of our agreement, and once we have signed it the terms cannot be changed. I suggest you read it over carefully."

Harry spent the next thirty-minutes doing so. Along with the terms of their agreement, the document detailed how much gold he had in his Gringott's vaults, the amount that would be placed into a separate account for investing, and an extra amount that was for purchasing the Dursely's new home. A separate document was attached that detailed everything Morvac would do to establish SPEW as well as information on the account Sirius had put together for the organization. Harry didn't see anything that looked suspicious. He and Morvac signed the document and the goblin waved his hand over it once more making a copy. "There is a copy here for each of us which can only be viewed by you and I." Morvac stated. "How would you like me to send you the updated statements for your investments Mr. Potter?"

"Statements?" Harry asked.

"Yes sir, a notice of how your gold is being invested and what gains or losses have occurred. Typically we deliver these by Owl post, though I don't think you will approve of this." Morvac said knowingly. "Might I suggest that we update your money bag so that it may also serve this purpose?"

Harry agreed and gave his bag to Morvac who simply waved his hand over it and gave it back. "I am very pleased with what we have accomplished here today Mr. Potter." Tapknock grumbled to himself again. "I am sure that certain parties will disagree, but I think that we have made a step in the right direction." Morvac stood and extended his again. "Good day sir."

Harry stood as well and shook the goblin's hand. "Thank you for your assistance Mr. Morvac."

"Just Morvac sir." The goblin replied.

"And Harry for you then." Harry said.

---

"Weasley, are you sure that all the press releases are in order?" Fudge barked across his office. "We cannot have this situation at Azkaban reaching the public without properly smoothing over the details!"

"Yes Minister, everything will be in order shortly." Percy Weasley said as another stack of papers fell off his too small desk outside the Minister's office.

The news arrived in less than an hour ago that the Dementors had deserted Azkaban prison after rendering every being on the island soulless. What's more, the only bodies that were unaccounted for were those of the Death Eaters that had been captured last year in the Department of Mysteries. The explanation of it all was obvious; the problem was that "the obvious" wasn't what the Minister of Magic was interested in sharing with the public.

"It better damn well be good!" Fudge barked. "A state of bloody panic we're going to have on our hands if it's not!"

"Yes Minister." Percy replied quickly while he dictated frantically to the Quick-Quotes quill on his desk.

Fudge paced feverishly behind his desk, only a few coherent words could be understood from his grumbling. "…security risk…use trolls…no ogres…WEASLEY!"

A smattering of papers and desk items fell to the floor as Percy jumped to answer Fudge's call. "Yes Minister"

"Dragons!" Fudge yelled as Percy entered his office, "Doesn't Arthur have a son who works with Dragons? We can use dragons to guard the prison!"

"But sir…" Percy started.

"Arthur Weasley, I want him in my office this instant!"

"Sir, if I may…" Percy was cut off again.

"Weasley!" Fudge yelled as he finally looked up at Percy. "Why are you standing there? Where's that press release, and why isn't Arthur Weasley on his way to my office? I want Dragons guarding those prisoners at once!"

"Sir," Percy said sternly, "All the prisoners were kissed. There's no one to guard sir."

The Minister looked at Percy as if he had grown a second head, "Of course there are no prisoners to guard. Do you think I don't know that?" Though it was obvious from the shade of red the man's face was turning that he was completely flustered by the realization. "Where is my press release Weasley!"

Percy scuttled out of the office and returned an instant later, "Right here sir. I think we might be able to exploit this angle to divert attention away from the Dementors turning against us sir." He said.

Fudge snatched the paper out of his assistant's hand, "Damnit Weasley, if we don't find some way to divert attention from what those Dementors did there's going to be a mob banging down our doors."

"Yes Minister." Percy echoed his trained response.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Official Notice to the Public

From the Office of the Minister of Magic

A travesty struck the wizarding world today when escaped convict and fugitive-at-large Sirius Black returned once again to Azkaban Island. Black, convicted murderer and servant of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, added yet another act of treachery against society today when he broke into Azkaban Prison in another attempt to free the prisoners within. It is believed that this fugitive's motive was to create a scene of chaos within the prison in order to free ten Death Eaters who were captured during the attack on the Ministry last June. However, these malicious actions turned terribly wrong when the Dementors guarding the prison became aware of Black's attempt.

It is the unfortunate duty of the Minister of Magic to announce that during the chaos that ensued, the Dementors went into a frenetic state and administered their kiss to every witch and wizard on the island. In addition to the prisoners, the wizard guards who operated the prison were also attacked and lost their souls to the kiss. As a result of this deplorable incident the Ministry has decided to relieve the Dementors from their duty at the prison and will be instating new security measures immediately.

Ministry teams are still completing a thorough investigation to identify all the victims, but at this time it is believed that Black, along with the previously mentioned Death Eater's managed to escape. Every available resource is being dedicated to guarantee the safety of every witch and wizard in London as well as capture the escaped convicts responsible for this deplorable act of sedition.

In response Cornelius Fudge, Minister of Magic, had these words,

"I am deeply saddened by the tragedy that has fallen upon our society. Every member of this administration extends their deepest condolences to the families of those who have suffered as a result. But in these hard times we must strengthen our resolve to hold accountable those responsible for these crimes and I promise to lead the way in ensuring that justice is served"

###

Percy watched proudly as the Minister nodded with each passage and then grinned. "Yes Weasley, yes this will do just fine." Fudge stated. "But we can't have this nonsense about the escaped Death Eaters. Get rid of it!" the fat politician snapped and then forced the paper back at Percy.

"But sir, shouldn't we alert the public of the danger presented by the escaped Death Eaters?" Percy pleaded.

"Are you mad boy? The last thing we need is to give the people even more to panic about!" Fudge huffed.

"I understand sir, but…"

"Weasley, I am the Minister of Magic for a reason, and that is because I know what is best for the people, if I tell you that they don't need to know, than that means they damn-well don't need to know!" He yelled. "Now make the corrections at once!"

Percy exited the office and Fudge returned to his pacing. Back at his desk the rattled redhead again listened to the highlights of Fudge's ramblings. "Tell me what the public needs to know…I'm the Minister of Magic…well within our control…no threat to us…"

---

"I've been thinking about this ever since they locked me up in that wretched prison." Macnair said over his shoulder as he finished sharpening a large axe. "Some good old fashioned muggle killing."

"Your utter simplicity never fails to amaze me Macnair." Lucius Malfoy drawled.

"Why are you in such a twist Malfoy? What's the matter, feeling a little blue because you're not the Dark Lord's prized pet?" Avery spat from across the room. "Can't you just enjoy that we're not locked up in prison anymore?"

"Unlike you, I haven't come to accept failure in everything I do, Avery. Though I'm sure thought of anything but that is beyond you by now." Malfoy hissed.

Lucius continued to grow irritated with his diminished position at Riddle Manor. After the Dark Lord's speech the pure-blooded wizard sought out his old quarters to prepare in peace only to find out that his room had been converted to sleeping quarters for several low-ranking Death Eaters. Hoping to avoid further incidents, he retreated to the weapons room thinking that it wouldn't be occupied. Unfortunately for him, Avery and Macnair had a similar idea.

"You still act like you are any better than us. You screwed up just as bad as the rest of us, and now you have to deal with that." Avery watched as Macnair holstered another axe before turning back to Malfoy, "Or maybe it's just that the poor little rich boy has never had to work for anything in his life."

"You know nothing you buffoon!" Malfoy yelled.

Macnair picked up a dagger and began sharpening it, "The both of you shut up. I can't even drown out the sound of your whining with this grindstone. Why can't you just be happy that we're free and we get to kill some muggles?"

Avery and Malfoy stared venomously at each other for a moment longer before acknowledging Macnair's demand. "I thought our master gave instruction that we are to kill those filthy muggles in a manner that left no doubt dark magic had been the cause." Malfoy said snidely.

"Oh don't worry about that. I think when they find muggles dead without a mark on their body, but with their insides gutted there will be little else to explain it." Macnair said with a sneer.

"Not a bad idea, I was thinking that I would just kill them and switch their limbs between each other." Avery said.

Macnair finished sharpening his dagger and tucked it into his belt. When he walked across the room to retrieve a large broadsword the man jingled loudly from all the bladed weapons on him. "Are you sure you haven't left out anything?" Malfoy said snidely to Macnair.

The man glared at Malfoy, "I like to have options, beside one can never be…"

---

"…too prepared." Hermione said dismissively.

"Good grief Hermione, we're only starting our sixth year, not opening a library. With all that stuff you'd think you own lot in the company." Ron chided, as he looked at all the school supplies Hermione was putting into her bag.

"Oh stuff it Ron, I haven't had a chance to buy school supplies for awhile." Hermione replied.

The group of students met up with Harry after he left from Gringott's and with some stern encouragement from Remus hurried into Flourish and Blott's to pick up their books for the year. It was almost midday and Diagon Alley had begun to fill with its usual crowd of shoppers.

The group had grown impatient waiting for Hermione to complete her rather extensive shopping list at the bookstore. "I think Ron's got a point Hermione." Harry said. "It's not like you can't pick up anything you forget during one of the trips to Hogsmade."

Hermione huffed at the comment, but noticed that even Remus looked like he agreed. "Fine, I'm done, just as soon as I pick out a new bag." A gentle chorus of groans could be heard. "Oh come on, my parents said that I could get one since I decided not to go to Germany this summer." This managed to earn a little more patience from Ron.

"Remus, do you think after we're done here we can have a quick look in Quality Quiddich Supplies?" Harry asked. Lupin didn't look too pleased about the request. "We'll only be a moment, but since I found out my ban has been lifted I'd really like to pick up some new gear for this season."

Ginny and Ron joined in with pleading looks and reluctantly Remus agreed. "Fine, but make it quick I want to get back as soon as possible and you lot still have to get fitted and buy new robes for the year." Three jubilant faces lit up at the man's response.

"Um, Professor Lupin…" Neville squeaked.

"Remus." He interrupted.

"Er, Remus, I still need to stop in Ollivander's to get my new wand. Gran's let me have a loaner for the summer but I don't think I can take it back to Hogwarts with me."

Remus looked quickly at his watch, "Fine, when Hermione is done here you and her go to Ollivander's to get you a wand. The rest of us will head over to Quality Quiddich Supplies and we'll all meet at Madam Malkin's after." Remus had barely finished speaking when Ron, Harry and Ginny made a bolt for the door.

"Look at the new keeper gear Harry!" Ron said as he peered through the window at Quality Quiddich. "Those are the official gloves and pads used by the World Cup teams!"

"Well come on, let's have a look inside." Harry said as he held the door open for his friends.

"Over here guys, they've got the whole line!" Ginny said from across the shop. "These are wicked aren't they?" she asked as the boys joined her.

"Very fine products indeed." The shopkeeper said from over their shoulders. "Each set is charmed to ensure that you're always prepared. Including fit, comfort, and temperature spells, each set carries specialty charms catered to position. Chaser gloves have sensitivity charms so that the player has a perfect feel of the Quaffle in their hands while still having impact protection from hard passes and deflections. Keeper gloves carry grip charms to help reduce Quaffle slip while protecting the hoops. They are also given finger-padding charms to help reduce jams and finger sprains incurred during shot deflections." Ron and Ginny were practically salivating as the shopkeeper carried on. "Of course, Quiddich World Cup sanctioned equipment guarantees to be the least restrictive and longest lasting equipment available on the market today." The man added proudly.

Harry stared at the equipment taking in the sleek lines and curves of each glove and pad. He moved past Ginny and Ron to examine the set of Beater accessories and then paused when he noticed the Seeker equipment separated out from the rest of the new line. There, rotating in mid-air was a black, long-sleeve turtle neck shirt, and two very thin gloves with webbed fingers. "Excuse me sir, but is this really the seeker equipment?" Harry asked. "Where are the pads, sir? You can't really expect the seeker to go on the pitch without pads he would get killed!"

"Indeed you are right. But this is the latest addition to the World Cup line. In fact The Department of Magical Games and Sports just recently approved the extraordinary features of this set. There was a bit of an uproar that the webbing between the fingers gave an unfair advantage while capturing the snitch, but since the wings of the snitch are usually wider than the players hand it was decided that the gloves would be legal."

"But what is the webbing for if not to help catch the snitch?" Harry asked.

"Aerodynamics my boy! The latest trend amongst Seekers is to find every advantage they can for making tighter turns, faster stops, and harder cuts. These Seeker gloves are the most recent evolution in that trend." The shopkeeper pulled one of them down for Harry to try on.

Harry took the glove and put it over his hand. Immediately the fit and temperature charms began working, shrinking so the glove fit his hand perfectly and adjusting the temperature within so his hands were kept at a comfortable level. He looked at the webbing that extended from the base of his fingers to his middle knuckles. Harry opened his hand wide and swished it through the air instantly noticing the drag caused by the webbing. "This is great!"

"You like that do you. The webbing is charmed to help reduce the travel of air through it and the length can be adjusted to above or below the knuckle depending on your preference." Harry gave the glove back to man and looked at the turtleneck shirt. "Ah, now that is the true jewel of this year's line." The man said as he noticed what Harry was staring at. "The padded seeker is a way of the past with this new line. What you see before you is a streamlined, highly protective, feather-light, protective shirt. As with everything else this shirt is charmed for fit and temperature. But it is also made from a hybrid material that is light, breathable, and padded to boot. In addition the strongest padding charms allowed have been strategically placed over the shirt to safely protect from the most severe injuries, particularly those suffered by Bludgers. Of course they come in various colors as does every other piece of equipment in the line."

When the shopkeeper finished speaking the three students looked at each other like they had just been introduced to a new way of breathing. It was when Ginny looked at the price tag attached to the chaser set that her excitement faded. "There's no way mums going to let us buy this stuff Ron." She said.

Harry watched as an equally disappointed face came over Ron. "Oh hell, what's the point of having all this gold if I don't spend any of it?" he announced. Ron and Ginny gave him curious looks but Harry ignored them turning to the shopkeeper instead. "My friends and I will take a set each." Harry didn't even have to wait for Ron to voice his protest he could feel it through their bond. "Let me do this Ron, please. Sirius left me all this gold, but there's no point in having it if I never get the chance to spend it." He could still feel Ron's reluctance. "Fine, if you need an excuse then consider it an earned bonus for winning the House Cup last year. And Ginny you can earn yours by getting the starting chaser job on the house team."

Remus cleared his throat impatiently from the front door indicating that it was time to leave. "Should I box them up then?" the shopkeeper asked.

Harry saw the gleam of excitement behind his friend's eyes. "Yes, and we'd like them in Gryffindor colors if they're available." Harry answered.

After the purchase the four left the shop, Ron and Ginny seemingly more excited then when they came in. Hermione and Neville met them at Madam Malkin's moments later and each student went through the paces of being fit for and purchasing new robes, which was a first time experience for both Ron and Ginny. By the time everyone was finished Remus was practically ushering them by hand out the door.

"Remus…" Hermione called to the man as he began making his way towards the Leaky Cauldron, "would it be possible for us to stop at the Magical Menagerie? I would like to pick up some stuff for Crookshanks before we get to Hogwarts."

"Is it really necessary, we have been here much longer than I would have liked." Remus argued.

"Actually, Hedwig is almost out of owl treats as well." Harry added. "I'm sure that Pig could probably fare with a refill also."

"We can send the elves..." Remus suggested.

"You know we could use the floo at Fred and George's new shop, it's right near the Magical Menagerie." Ron interrupted while trying to subdue a mischievous smirk.

"…and Mum wanted me to stop in and check on the twins." Ginny added

"…err yeah." Neville said as he couldn't think of something of his own to add but wanted to be in on ganging up on Remus.

"Fine!" Remus relented, storming past the group and towards the Magical Menagerie. "Last time I take on the lot of you without backup."

The five students smiled at each other over Remus' frustration and hastened their pace to keep up with the angry minder. The stop in the Menagerie was a quick one for the group, and most of the time was spent looking at the animals rather than buying anything. When they got into Weasley's Wizard Wheezes, Ginny ran immediately to her brothers to show them her new Quiddich equipment, while Ron and Harry went straight to looking at the twin's latest gags. Various candies, fireworks, and fake wands were displayed along with the now famous Skiving Snackboxes and Mad's Eyes.

"Good day brother." George said as he approached Ron and Harry.

"Indeed." Fred added.

"Word tells us that you have been the beneficiary of another charitable deed of our esteemed colleague." George said.

"We mustn't forget to add generous and well financed to that list." Fred replied.

"Enough you two, Ron's new Quiddich gear is for earning the newly instated, one-time only, Finest Player Award while winning the House Cup." Harry said.

Fred and George both dawned mocking proud looks at both Harry and Ron, "I think we might make a Weasley out of him yet." Fred said.

"It seems so, for only a Weasley could have side-stepped out of that one with such witty grace." George agreed. "Well maybe with the exception of our Ronnikins."

"Quite right you are." Fred intoned.

"Enough the both of you!" Ron scolded.

"Easy now brother, we happen to agree with Harry here regarding your one-time Finest Player Award." Fred replied.

"Yes, we would like to sweeten that one by offering you one of Weasley Wizard Wheezes finest gift packages." George said.

Remus called from the front counter for everyone to leave. Harry began to make his way over towards the man while Ron accepted the package from his brothers and followed. The group walked past the counter and to the fireplace to finally leave Diagon Alley, everyone's hands full with packages.

"Do you think we should warn them about what happens when they open the gift package?" Fred asked.

"Nah, what they don't know can't hurt them…well maybe a little." George replied.

---

"We must be telling Master Harry Potter sir about what Kreacher has done." Winky pleaded to Dobby.

"Kreacher is a terrible house-elf and Dobby is happy that he is gone. Harry Potter sir was not liking him one bit." Dobby replied.

"Winky thinks Dobby is right to think this, but shouldn't we be telling the master what has happened?" Winky asked.

"Harry Potter is a great and talented wizard. He is having much to worry about, and Master's friends is working very hard with him to become even more wonderful wizards." Dobby said.

"Yes Master sir and his friends is doing much these days. Sir is still not sleeping properly and spends much time at night with the magical bowl." Winky added.

"Dobby thinks that Winky and him should not bother Harry Potter sir with Kreacher's shameful action." Dobby said resolutely.

"But good house-elves is always telling their masters what is happening in their homes." Winky argued.

"Harry Potter sir says that Winky and Dobby are not house-elves. Harry Potter sir says that we are his friends."

"But we is house-elves." Winky whined.

"Master says that we are not, and good house-elves is always listening to what their masters tells them. Harry Potter's friends is always doing everything to help master. Dobby is Harry Potter's friend, and he is thinking that master is not needing to be bothered with problems that we is being able to take care of."

"Dobby is knowing Harry Potter sir best." Winky said meekly. "Winky still is thinking Master sir should be told, but Winky will do what Dobby thinks best." The faithful elf looked shamefully to the ground when she said this.

Dobby puffed out his chest as he snarled at the image of Kreacher's headless body lying on the floor in front of him. Kreacher's head lie on the floor several feet from its former body surrounded by the formerly mounted heads of its ancestors. "Dobby and Winky is making sure that Harry Potter sir need not worry with Kreacher killing himself."

---

Severus Snape paced angrily across his potions room in Riddle Manor, the vile smell of several concoctions bubbling in their cauldrons filled the air. The ill-mannered potions professor stared anxiously at the fireplace trying to think of some other way to notify the Order of the ensuing attack. This would be the second time that he had been unable to provide warning of an attack. Though he did tell Dumbledore that Voldemort made him brew a tracking potion prior to the attack on Potter's muggle home. But Voldemort had not informed Snape how the potion would be used; such was the way of the Dark Lord in his second rising.

"Snape it is almost time." Peter Pettigrew said as he appeared behind the man.

"Pettigrew I will not warn you again about sneaking into my working area. There will be severe consequences the next time." Snape hissed.

Peter quivered slightly as he looked around the dungeon at the various potions he couldn't identify. "Have you completed your preparations?"

"The viles are on the counter behind you." Snape replied curtly. "Take them and get out!"

It was a matter of quick thinking for Snape to figure out a potion that would be considered helpful to the evening's mission but not actually cause harm to any muggles. He decided on a potion that would make inanimate objects move around as if they were alive. However, the true genius of the potion was that the effect only lasted an hour. Long enough to convince the Death Eater who used it that the potion was working, but short enough so that when the muggle bodies were discovered it would only appear as though the animated objects had been strewn about during a struggle.

Wormtail scurried over to the counter and retrieved the viles. Before he could leave Snape called out to him, "The next time you try to invade my quarters while scurrying on your belly, you may find that you no longer possess the knowledge that you were ever anything but a rat. Though I doubt you are far from that as it is."

Wormtail practically ran out of the dungeon, leaving Snape to return to his quandary.

---

When Harry stepped out of the fireplace and into the living room of 12 Grimmauld he nearly fell backward in shock.

"Wotcher Harry!" Tonks said and started laughing from only inches away from his face. The young Auror had made her nose really big and her hair a terribly bright shade of red, so when Harry's vision cleared after he stepped out of the fireplace all he saw was a large protruding object in his face with a ridiculously red background. "I love doing that." She said as Ron and Hermione flooed out of the fireplace and into Harry who was still blocking the entrance.

"Ermph! Move it Harry!" Ron yelled. "What's she on about?" he asked when he saw Tonks laughing near the couch.

"Tonks that really is one of your less attractive looks. The nose in particular isn't all that flattering." Hermione said.

"Our Auror friend here thought it would be funny to try and poke my eye out with that nose as I came through the floo." Harry said. "Apparently she's tripped and fallen one too many times and has lost her sense."

"Hey, I resent that! I almost never fall down when I trip thank you very much – I might stumble a little…oh an there was that one time when…"

"Finally you're back." Molly's booming voice drowned out the rest of Tonks comment. "I was beginning to worry, Remus told me he'd have you back before lunch time. Well no matter, come along I have sandwiches prepared for everyone."

Remus, Ginny and Neville followed the trio into the kitchen, each giving Tonks a strange look as they passed by. Winky and Dobby popped into the kitchen as everyone sat down. "Harry Potter sir, we is very happy to be seeing you sir." Dobby said excitedly.

"Thank you Dobby but I haven't been gone that long." Harry said.

"Of course sir, Dobby is just seeing that master is doing well sir." Winky was trembling a little bit from behind Dobby and wouldn't look up.

This caught the attention of Hermione. "Is everything ok with you Winky?" she asked.

"Winky is fine Ms." The elf squeaked. "Your bags, Winky is taking all the bags upstairs." The elf and the bags disappeared with a pop.

Dobby looked around nervously as everyone stared strangely at him. "Dobby will be going now if Harry Potter sir is not needing anything."

Harry looked curiously at the elf, "No Dobby, I'm doing just fine for now…thank you." Dobby popped out just as quickly as Winky after Harry finished speaking.

"That was odd." Ron commented. "So what's for lunch mum?"

As everyone began to eat Tonks entered the kitchen and sat down next to Harry. She had done away with the large nose but was still wearing her hair bright red. "Sorry if I gave ya too much of a start earlier. Just having a little fun is all. That aside, I do have a bit of news for you and your friends." The Auror waited for everyone's attention, "I got Shacklebolt to agree to let me teach you lot how to apparate. Well, for the rest of the summer. But I think that is plenty of time to get you prepped up for your licenses."

"But Tonks we only have two weeks left before we leave for Hogwarts, there's no way that can be enough time?" Hermione argued.

"Nonsense, I learned to apparate in a couple of weeks time. It's a pinch, besides I'm sure Remus can help me.

"I can't wait to learn to apparate!" Ron said, "I bet you can't either, eh Harry? Never did get on well using the floo. Thanks Tonks." A general chorus of thank you's followed Ron's. "So Harry what do you say about you, Ginny, and I having a go with our new equipment. McGonagall gave you your broom back right? You must be dying to fly."

"I don't know Ron." Harry said.

"What do you mean you don't know? You haven't flown in months, besides as your new Quiddich captain I think you ought to start training up for the season." Ron announced proudly.

"What's that dear, did you say you made Quiddich captain?" Molly asked. "Oh that's wonderful Ron, Quiddich captain and prefect, your father's going to be so proud!"

"Well I'm not prefect anymore mum, Harry got that. McGonagall said that she didn't think either of us could handle both so Harry chose prefect and that made me Quiddich captain. S'alright though, didn't really like being prefect all that much."

"Oh." Molly said with a tinge of disappointment in her voice. "Well, we're proud of you either way, and I guess congratulations is in order as well for you Harry."

"Yeah that's great Harry, you making prefect and all!" Hermione said excitedly, but quickly noticed the looks she was getting from Mrs. Weasley and Ron. "And you too Ron, I know you've wanted to be Quiddich captain since our first year right." She quickly added.

Ron eyed Hermione for a moment longer before turning back to Harry, "Well, as captain I'm saying that you need to practice!" Ron said sternly, though he couldn't hold back his smile.

Ginny leaned towards Harry to whisper in his ear, "I think it's going to be a long season if he's already demanding practices."

"He can't be any worse than Wood was." Harry retorted.

The table cleared after Ron, Ginny, and Harry left as everyone went about their way. Neville, as had become his routine, returned to his room to work on his animagus transformation. Hermione, who was still reluctant to work on her animagus, decided to go to the library and read the books she brought back from Harry's vault.

In the clearing behind the house the three Gryffindor Quiddich players zoomed around the yard – none flying faster or higher than Harry. From the moment he kicked off the ground he felt the familiar release from his worries that always came with flying. The wind in his face and the thrill of speeding around the yard were exhilarating. He raced his broom as fast as he could in the confined space behind 12 Grimmauld place, making sure not to exceed the boundaries of the magical charms that hid the location from muggle eyes.

Harry quickly adapted to using his new gloves as well. Somehow the webbing between his fingers felt natural, like he knew exactly how and when to use them. He practiced taking his broom to full speed and then extending one of his hands to grab the wind like an anchor to pull him through hard turns. His arms felt like wings, and his body felt as if one with the broom and the combination of the two senses quickly overcame Harry causing his aviary eyes to turn black. For a moment Harry was reminded of the physical sensations he felt in his animagus vision before forcing his eyes to return to normal.

For a while Ginny and Ron watched in amazement as Harry performed his aerobatic stunts. But the two Weasleys also wanted to get the most from their new equipment and decided to throw and catch the Quaffle. Eventually it progressed to Ginny trying to throw the Quaffle past Ron as the siblings fell into their competitive routine.

Harry joined the other two, and after transfiguring a rock into a Quiddich hoop, they played several scrimmage games with Ginny and Harry competing against each other to score on Ron. None of them were sure how long they'd been at it, but when it began to grow dark they decided it was time to go inside.

As Harry walked next to his two friends back to the house he thought about how free he felt that day. He thought it might have been because he just got done flying for the first time since his ban from the sport. But as Harry considered all that had happened, he began to believe it was something more. After all he had gotten out of the house for a whole day with his friends, he'd made an agreement with the goblins that he was sure would turn out for the best, and he got the opportunity to make his friends happy by giving them something they wanted.

The feeling quickly fled from him when he walked into the living room and found it full of Order members scrambling about.

"What's going on?" Ron asked.

"I've seen as much as you have, how am I supposed to know." Harry answered.

"Hey Harry." Tonks said from across the room. "Bet you weren't expecting a welcoming party when you got back."

"What's going on, why are all of these people here?"

"Dumbledore's called a meeting, something happened at Azkaban and we think the Dementors have taken up with Voldemort."

Hearing Tonks actually speak in a serious tone was almost frightening. "Did the Death Eaters who were captured at the Ministry escape?"

"We still don't have all the details, that's what most everyone is working on." Tonks said.

"Harry dear, why don't you take Ron and Ginny into the kitchen to have some dinner?" Molly interrupted.

Harry looked at the woman like she was insane. Who the hell cares about dinner? I find out that friggin' Dementors could be on the loose, and that the Death Eaters who tried to kill me last year might be free, and you want me to eat dinner? He looked back to Tonks trying to express those thoughts through his eyes.

"It's alright Harry, the meeting is not going to be for awhile yet. How about I join you in the kitchen and all of us can talk some more." Tonks suggested.

"I think it would be best Harry," Remus added, "From the look of things, no one really knows what's happened."

Harry reluctantly agreed and made his way to the kitchen where Hermione and Neville were already waiting. "Why didn't you come and get us?" Harry said to Hermione.

"The Order members only just arrived. I was going to get you, but Remus said that he saw the three of you heading towards the house and that I should wait in here." Hermione pleaded.

Molly began preparing plates for everyone as they settled in around the table. "Someone please tell me what happened?" Harry said.

"I really don't know much, no one does." Tonks spoke up, "Apparently there was some sort of incident at Azkaban; the Ministry is in a craze. From what I've managed to gather there was a break in and something happened with the Dementors. There's been a lot of murmuring about kisses being administered but we don't know to who or how many. It looks like the Ministry is trying to keep a lid on the details, only the upper level Aurors were called into a meeting. Dumbledore's waiting for Moody and Shacklebolt to get here with whatever news they've got."

Suddenly the group heard the front door slam open and all the noise in the living room went silent. Harry bolted through the kitchen door to see what was going on and stopped dead in his tracks when he saw Severus Snape standing just inside the door, wearing Death Eater robes and panting heavily where he stood.

AN: Well it's been two weeks since the last time I've updated, by far the longest period between updates. I apologize for the delay (and hope you haven't saved up your rotten vegetables to hurl at me for it), but to make up for the wait I've offered you my longest chapter yet. What's worse is that I'm such an arse that I make you wait two weeks for the update, then give you this long chapter, only to leave you with the most suspenseful cliffhanger I've written so far (maybe those rotten vegetables are in order after all). Well, I promise that the next chapter will be filled with fireworks galore, what else can you expect when Snape busts in on Grimmauld Place adorned in Death Eater garb? I hope you enjoyed the chapter and I will do my best to put up the next one within a weeks time. I have to attend training out of town all of next week, so it's going to be a challenge to update quickly, but I promise I will do my best.

As always I post responses to your reviews in the review section for this story on fanfiction.net, and also at the Yahoo group for this fic, link is also on my bio page). Thanks for reading and especially for reviewing.

Cheers,

Omagic