Sunday – 4 August
Dan Granger enjoyed making breakfast for his family. Today they were having a simple meal of toast, bagels, fried ham, juice and coffee. It was going to be a fabulous day, sunny and warm. They would go to church, and then enjoy the day. He had come to accept the oddities of the wizarding world that his daughter belonged in. He realized that Hermione would most likely marry into that world, and if fate would have it, produce beautiful grandchildren who could do amazing things. He wondered about the war that was being waged around him. It didn't seem to follow the usual reasons, land, religion, color, or wealth. Rather it seemed to be some perversion of class. What did this Voldemort lunatic really want?
An owl fluttered down outside the window. Dan called, "Hermione, your paper is here."
She took the newspaper from the tawny owl, gave her a piece of her father's toast, put the money in the pouch, and the owl hooted as it flew away. As had become the norm, it was filled with headlines..
Trial Date Set for Death Eaters
Story by Rita Skeeter
The trial for the Death Eaters charged in the 1 August Diagon Alley bombing has been set for Monday 5 August. At least seven Death Eaters took part in the raid that left store employee Lee Jordan Dead. Two Death Eaters were killed in a firefight outside the shop. It isn't known if Minister Fudge will attend the trial.
Shopkeepers Fred and George Weasley were both injured in the blast. They are expected to testify on Monday.
Like everyone else, Hermione would dearly miss Lee Jordan's playful tussle with McGonagall, while announcing quidditch games. She read on.
Death Eater Found Murdered
Story by Rita Skeeter
In a bizarre twist Death Eater Chuck Woodson was found murdered in Little Hangleton, at a residence rumored to have been used by Voldemort as a hideout. Woodson, 38 was found dead at the scene dressed in Death Eater garb, apparently murdered with a killing curse. Woodson is believed to have accompanied Theodore Nott, 17 in the deadly raid outside Woodworth Apothecary, which resulted in the murder of Auror Nigel MacDonell. In a related stor,y Little Hangleton fire Marshall Bill Blundell reported that the same house apparently caught fire the same day. The cause was listed as accidental, probably due to a careless smoker.
Hermione put the paper down. Twenty-one Death Eaters had been killed or captured in the last six weeks. Four people from the light side had been killed, four seriously hurt. From what Harry had said, Voldemort didn't have enough Death Eaters to keep the war up at this rate. What made this so strange was that she knew or had met most of these people – ten at the Department of Mysteries, three at her house, the six at the joke shop, one at Woodsons, and the last from Voldemort. Nine of the twenty-one, she had known from Hogwarts. Harry had an active part in nineteen of the victories, borrowing the term from the old airplane battles. That was probably more than most of the current Aurors.
Hermione called Diane asking if she would like to have lunch with Harry and her. They agreed to meet at the Black Dog. She called Harry and made the same plans with him.
They ordered their lunches and beers. Hermione excused herself to go up and look for a book. Diane smiled at Harry and asked the unexpected, "Harry I was wondering if you could do me a favor sometime?
"Sure. How can I help?"
She looked a little embarrassed. "I was wondering if you would take me flying again sometime. I really loved it."
"I would be happy to, but we couldn't do it here."
"Right. Buzzing Big Ben might not be a great idea. What 's your schedule this afternoon?"
"Hermione's busy, but I'd be happy to go with you. We could get a portkey made and go to Inverness by school, or we could drive out to the Weasleys."
"How far away are they?"
"About 150 miles. Is that too far?"
"No. We could catch up on the way out, and I could still get you home late tonight."
"I'd like that."
"Hermione said that you had a pretty crappy week."
Harry shook his head. "I can't even walk down the street minding my own business for ten minutes without something happening."
"Harry, do you want to talk shop, or have lunch? Either is fine with me, but a lovely young lady is hovering behind you, just out of earshot."
He waved her over. "Let's have a nice lunch. I'll share my dark secrets with you later this afternoon."
Hermione came over, kissed the top of his head, and sat down. They had a great lunch. Tim took great care of them as always. Harry paid, and went upstairs. He came back carrying a hard shell case that he had gotten to protect his Firebolt. Hermione had an idea of what they were up to, and kissed him goodbye when they dropped her off at her parents' house. She didn't ask to come along, as she knew that Harry needed time to talk with Diane. "Have a good time. Say 'hi' to Ginny. I'll see you tomorrow. I love you Harry."
"Thanks. I love you too. I'll call you early."
Harry got back in Diane car and they started off to Ottery St. Catchpole.
Diane asked, "Okay Harry, what's been going on in your life since your birthday party?"
"I keep getting thrown into these situations that decide someone's fate. With Snape, I made arrangements to keep him from going to wizard prison, which probably would have meant his death. I made arrangements to have him work on a cure for two wizarding conditions that affect people that I know. Then after his trial, my friends Tonks, George Weasley and I stumbled on this group of Death Eaters. They were in the process of blowing up the Weasley brothers joke shop. I had the choice to stun the Death Eaters. Instead, I chose to use spells that killed two of them. Everyone is calling me a hero. My perspective is that I killed two people."
Diane hadn't exactly expected this. "What do the people that you talk with say when you mention that point?"
"They don't care. All they talk about are the number of people that were saved."
"Then I'll ask two questions – First, does wizarding law have a dead or alive clause? Second question, why did you decide to use one type of spell rather than another type?"
"To the first question, I don't know for sure, but believe that the justifiable use of force in a defensive situation has some wide open guidelines. To the second question, last June, a dozen Death Eaters attacked Hermione, myself, and four other friends. I stunned three of them. That basically is a spell to make them unconscious. Unfortunately, there is a counter spell that takes less than ten seconds to reverse the effects. As a result, last June, everyone that I stunned came back for a second fight. The spell that I used this time certainly would disable them. I'd never used it on a person before.
"Are you absolutely positive that you would have won last week if you had stunned them instead?"
"No. Tonks was down, and I think that George would have been beaten. If none of the Death Eaters had been revived, it still would have been four or five against one. Tactically, I realize that it was the right thing to do. Emotionally, I feel really bad about it."
"What do the police, I mean Aurors who have been through this before have to say?"
"I haven't had that conversation yet with Moody. I should."
"Harry, here's my take. You did what you had to do to save the good guys. If you hadn't done what you did, the bomb would have gone off and a lot of people would have been killed. The bad guys would have gotten away to do it again. You are supposed to feel really bad about being forced to take a life, but you shouldn't let it eat you up."
They arrived at the Weasleys a few minutes later, about mid afternoon. They stopped in to say 'hi' to Ginny and went to the paddock out back. Diane loved flying, probably even more than Harry, because she hadn't become accustomed to the magic of it all. It was different than riding on the back of a motorcycle, because it was three dimensional, and there was no engine noise or vibration. There was only the sound of nature, birds, leaves, and the wind in their hair. She wondered if all of witchcraft was tied to nature.
After a while, Ginny came out, and asked if she could fly with them. They flew side by side, played follow the leader, and a simple game of catch throwing apples between the two brooms. Dinner at the Weasleys was quieter than usual. Bill had popped in for a few minutes to say 'hi' and get the latest news. Arthur was eyeing Diane's car in his usual inquisitive way. She told him that he was welcome to go out and look at it a bit quicker than a person who knew the depth of his quirks would have. Harry wanted to stay until it got dark so they could fly at night. Molly and Arthur left to go to St. Mungo's to visit Ron.
Diane and Harry went out again just after sunset. It was different flying at dusk and night than during the daytime. There were the lights below them to look at, but there weren't the visual reference points to aid their flight. It really was a bit more dangerous than it appeared. They flew along at about 500 feet. The sensation of being in the air was amazing. No propeller, no wings, just floating through the air! What a rush. They got back to the Weasleys about ten. Harry went in to say goodnight to Ginny, and gave her a friendly hug. She kissed his cheek, and gave him a friendlier hug. "Thanks for coming over Harry. Please come again soon, or we can meet in Diagon Alley."
The ride back was quieter than the ride out for about the first hour. Diane asked, "Harry are you folks winning this war that is being waged?"
Harry considered her question for a moment and replied, "I honestly don't know. I never thought about it that way. Voldemort and company feel like a combination of the organized crime that I see in the movies and some sort of terrorist group. They're not really robbing people, at least of money. They have this perverted notion that they are somehow better than someone else, or that people who do not agree with their viewpoint shouldn't be allowed to live. Take Hermione for instance – she probably embarrassed Malfoy over the years by beating him in every class at school. That kind of flies in the face of their 'I'm a pureblood, I should be better than you' attitude that some of the families have."
She nodded. "Harry can I ask you a personal question?"
"I suppose."
"Why do you love Hermione? It's obvious that most of the witches in Britain would love to be in your arms tonight, yet you never seem to notice."
"All I want to be is Harry, just Harry. Professor Potter is nice, or maybe Auror Potter someday, but that's it. Hermione just sees me. She's smart. She's beautiful. She's my best friend. We would do anything for each other. I don't have aspirations to shag every easy girl that sticks their fanny in my face. I like having a regular girlfriend, and if it turns into more, then it was meant to be. Does that make sense?"
"Harry, you are probably the most well grounded young man that I have ever met. Hermione and you deserve each other. I'm certain that she feels the same way about you. Take care of each other, and I am certain that you two will have a lifetime of love." They got back to the Black Dog pub. "Harry, thank you for showing me a fantastic evening. I truly enjoyed myself. I hope that your new job works really well for you this year. Remember to take care of yourself."
"Thanks Diane. You too."
She gave him a friendly hug and left.
… - …
An owl was waiting for Harry at the perch by Hedwig's cage Monday morning with several letters. Harry took the note addressed to him, the owl hooted, and flew off.
Professor Harry Potter,
You and a guest (Hermione) are invited for the day at Neville's. We are celebrating Neville's 16th birthday. (A week late) Please come at noon Wednesday the seventh of August at Neville's Grandmother's home. There will be games, swimming, dinner and dancing. Plan on wearing casual dress during the day with wizardwear for dinner. Ask Hermione for help. The floo network would be the easiest, unless you have your own transportation. Neville lives in Kent about 40 miles east of Hermione's.
RSVP to
Ginny Weasley
Harry had finished making breakfast. He heard a knock on the door and put down the letter. It was Hermione, carrying a shopping bag. "Hi Harry," she said, giving him a hug and kiss. Harry was delighted to see his girlfriend, but a bit surprised that she wanted to accompany him to yet another trial. She sat down to a very nice breakfast. Remus was a few minutes getting up. She asked, "Did you have fun at the Weasleys?"
Harry nodded. "We talked some stuff out on the way over, and flew until dinner with Ginny. Mr. And Mrs. Weasley had dinner with us. Bill stopped by to say 'hi' for a few minutes. We flew again after it got dark. That was different, but kind of fun. We drove back and talked some more on the way. I think we got back at one."
She looked at him carefully. "Do you feel better?"
Harry considered his question for a moment, realized that 'fine' wasn't an acceptable answer and replied, "Yes. Thanks. Diane suggested that I continue to take good care of you."
"Good advice. I hope you follow it. Did she really say that?" Hermione had never seriously considered what the two of them might be talking about for hours at a time.
"Yup. By the way Miss Granger, have I mentioned that I think you are beautiful yet today?"
Delighted by his words, she smiled and replied, "No, but thank you. Did I mention that I love you today?"
"No, but thank you." Harry kissed her. "We're invited to Neville's on Wednesday for a birthday party. I'm supposed to ask you what to wear. We can get him something this afternoon."
"That sounds like an excellent day, Mr. Potter," stated Hermione, her eyes shining with love.
"Good morning, Hermione," said Remus. "Are you ready for yet another trial?"
"Yes. How are we getting there?"
"Portkey, so you may want to finish getting dressed here. What are the plans for this afternoon?"
Harry replied, "We'd like to do some shopping in Diagon Alley, if that's okay. Hermione and I were invited to Neville's for the day on Wednesday."
"We could go see Ron, and see if we might help at the shop for a while, if you have the time," added Hermione.
"We should be able to do both," replied Remus. He finished his sausages and cereal. Harry really did make a good breakfast. "Hermione, can I get you more coffee?"
"Please. Thank you."
Remus cleaned up, while Hermione changed into her robes. At 8:30 they touched the portkey, and found themselves in the waiting room, outside Director Bones' office. They walked down the hall and down the stairs into courtroom ten.
Inside, they met Fred, George, and Tonks. They looked around and saw Mr. And Mrs. Weasley, Lee's parents, the Longbottoms, a dozen of the students in the DA, Cho, the kids who had been in the joke shop, their parents, a few of the other Aurors, Professors McGonagall, Sprout, and Flitwick. Rita Skeeter and Bozo were there. Harry looked at her and smiled. She nodded back. Narcissa Malfoy was also there, along with a few others that Harry did not recognize.
Like the first trial that Harry had participated in, the spectators were seated first. Director Bones, the Aurors and the witnesses came next. The defendants were led in and chained to the chairs. There were additional chained chairs sitting empty for the defendants that had been killed, and a last one for Marcus Flint, who was listed as missing, presumed dead.
Director Bones read the charges for each of the defendants.
"Marietta Edgecombe, you are charged with, the murder of Mr. Lee Jordan. You are further charged with eight counts of conspiracy to commit murder, damage to property, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, and possession of an unauthorized wand." Marietta kept her eyes down.
"Millicent Bulstrode, you are charged with the attempted murder of Mr. Fred Weasley, eight counts of conspiracy to commit murder, damage to property, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, and possession of an unauthorized wand." Like Marietta, Bulstrode kept her eyes down, not looking once at the Wizengamot judges.
"Carl Warrington, you are charged with assault of Mr. Ron Weasley, eight counts of conspiracy to commit murder, damage to property, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, and possession of an unauthorized wand." Warrington looked her in the eye and nodded an acknowledgement.
"Theodore Nott, you are charged with the murder of Auror Nigel MacDonell. You are further charged with the possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, and possession of an unauthorized wand." Nott looked defiantly at the judges.
"In absentia, the following charges are also made."
"Delores Umbridge is charged with the manufacture of an explosive device, eight counts of conspiracy to commit murder, assault of an Auror, damage to property, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, and possession of an unauthorized wand."
"Bellatrix Lestrange is charged with the torture of Mr. Ronald Weasley by means of the use of an unforgivable curse, eight counts of conspiracy to commit murder, assault of an Auror, damage to property, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, and possession of an unauthorized wand."
"Curt Montague is charged with the attempted murder of an Auror, eight counts of conspiracy to commit murder, assault of an Auror, damage to property, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, and possession of an unauthorized wand."
"Marcus Flint is charged with the murder of an Auror, Dale Dawlish. He is further charged with eight counts of conspiracy to commit murder, assault of an Auror, damage to property, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, and possession of an unauthorized wand."
"Chuck Woodson is charged with assault of an Auror, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, and possession of an unauthorized wand."
The depositions of Marietta Edgecombe, Millicent Bulstrode, and Marcus Flint were presented to the full Wizengamot. All 48 active members were in attendance. Wizengamot judges Edgecombe or Umbridge had not yet been replaced. Aurors Tonks, Shacklebolt, Jones, and Straighthand, made their presentations. George Weasley talked about carrying the body of Lee Jordan and his two brothers out of the building before it exploded. Finally Harry discussed his part in the ordeal.
The judges deliberated for a surprisingly short period of time, much less than one hour. Finally they returned. Dumbledore read the verdicts.
Marietta Edgecombe – guilty of all charges.
Millicent Bulstrode – guilty of all charges.
Carl Warrington – guilty of all charges.
Theodore Nott – guilty of all charges.
Curt Montague – guilty of all charges.
Chuck Woodson - guilty of all charges.
Delores Umbridge – guilty of all charges.
Bellatrix Lestrange – guilty of all charges.
Dumbledore stood up and talked to the defendants. "As a favor to your families I made many of the repairs to the building myself. As such your families will only be assessed to the estimated contents of the building itself. The estimated content loss was 5,525 galleons."
He looked at each of the defendants, remembering when they were first year students trying on the sorting hat. "Do any of you have anything to say before we pronounce our sentences?"
None had a comment or plea prepared. Only Bulstrode indicated that she was sorry, and thanked Dumbledore for repairing the building, thus vastly reducing the fine. The sentences were passed out, and the Prisoners were led away. Bozo had taken several photos immediately after the sentences were read. Harry and the others left after the judges had left the room. Hermione suggested that they have lunch at the Leaky Cauldron before their afternoon of shopping and helping at the shop.
… - …
Harry got Neville a pair of dragon hide boots. They were very dark green, like his own pair. Hermione got him a wand holster from Ollivander's. Mr. Ollivander suggested a wrist holster that would fit Neville's new wand.
Harry and Hermione went to the joke shop. The sign on the front of the store said, closed for repairs. They walked in and said 'hi' to Fred, George, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. Hermione went up to the twins and gave each of them a hug. Harry was greeted warmly by Molly and Arthur. To reopen before school started which was their busiest time, the twins needed money to pay their suppliers for the items that they resold. Without being asked, Harry wrote Fred a Gringotts bank draft for twenty thousand galleons and quietly handed it to him. He told Fred, "I'm sorry that I wasn't able to help Lee, but I can help you two get yourselves back on your feet again. This is a no interest loan, payable to either my estate or my children. Whatever I can do to help you get opened by next week, please let me know. Hermione and I are having lunch with Rita Skeeter in two days. I will ask her to write an article promoting your store. Can you be open by Monday?"
Fred excused himself who went to talk with George for a few minutes. George came back, and told Harry that the joke shop would open Monday at ten AM and requested that Harry and Hermione both come for the grand re-opening. They said that they would. Then George asked that they spend the afternoon, or whatever part of it that they could visiting Ron.
… - …
After leaving the joke shop Harry and Hermione went to see Ron at St. Mungo's. He was being attended to, so Hermione went to get a couple of cups of coffee. The healer saw him there, recognized him, and apologized for keeping him waiting. She said that she would come back in a few minutes. Harry smiled at her, and thanked her for taking care of his good friend. She blushed, and walked away. Harry walked in the room.
Ron saw him in the door. "Thanks for coming to see me Harry. Come in."
Harry walked in the room. Ron was sitting up in his bed. Harry gave him a manly pat on the arm and said, "It's good to see you looking better Ron. Are you feeling better?"
"Better when I heard that you b, blasted that witch. W, Where's her arm?"
Harry admitted, "I don't know. I never asked. They chucked it in a bin I suppose. When do you think you might be ready to leave St. Mungo's?"
Ron smiled faintly. "They said that I could leave F, Friday if I wanted to."
"Would you like to come stay with me for the weekend? It would be a first. If you're up to it, we could have a pint together."
"Yes. P, Please."
"OK. I'll pick you up at nine in the morning." Should I see if Luna could come on Sunday?
"OK. Thanks, Harry."
Harry sincerely hoped that Snape was working overtime on that potion.
… - …
The mail arrived Tuesday morning, and Remus took the letters and newspapers from the hooting owls. He gave them each a part of a piece of toast and some fresh water from Hedwig's dish. He put the coins in the newspaper owl's pouch, and they all flew off.
The Prophet was full of articles relating to victories over Death Eaters.
Death Eaters Found Guilty
Story by Rita Skeeter
The trials of eight Death Eaters charged in various crimes in connection with the 1 August bombing in Diagon Alley and related skirmishes with ministry Aurors ended with the convictions of all participants, living or dead.
Delores Umbridge was found guilty of masterminding the bombing. Her estate was fined
57,250 galleons.
Escaped convict Bellatrix Lestrange was found guilty of the torture of one of the employees of the shop. Her estate was fined 57,250 galleons.
Curt Montague, 17 was found guilty. His estate was fined 57,250 galleons.
Marcus Flint, 21 was found guilty of the murder of Auror Dale Dawlish. His estate was fined 57,250 galleons. The body of Marcus Flint has not yet been recovered. He is believed to be dead.
Theodore Nott, 17 was found guilty of attempted murder of an Auror. He was sentenced to 20 years in Azkaban and fined 2,000 galleons
Marietta Edgecombe, 17 was found guilty of the murder of Lee Jordan. She was sentenced to 20 years in Azkaban and fined 57,250 galleons.
Millicent Bulstrode, 16 was found guilty of attempted murder of one of the owners of the shop. She was fined 5,000 galleons, the maximum amount that a minor could be fined.
Carl Warrington was found guilty of the assault of one of the employees he was fined 57,250 galleons.
Flint, Warrington, Edgecombe, Bulstrode were each additionally sentenced to fifteen years in Azkaban for the attempted murder of eight people who were in the store at the time. The fifteen years is in to of other sentences or fines applied. In a surprise move it was announced that all 345,500 galleons in fines levied were paid immediately by a single Gringotts bank draft from an unidentified source.
Remus was surprised that Narcissa would choose to pay all of those fines herself. He wondered whether she had previously been directed to by Lucius, or was doing her small bit to make the world a better place by cashing out his estate. Remus mentally compared the Malfoy estate to the Black estate. If they were similar in size, the last month would have nearly wiped out the available cash. If this continued, the estate holdings might get sold off. Perhaps Dumbledore had been premature in repairing the building.
He read the next article.
Floo Official Arrested
Story by Rita Skeeter
In a surprise move yesterday, Law Enforcement Director Bones announced that Michelle Edgecombe, 39 of the Floo Network office was arrested, charged with crimes including attempted murder of an Auror. Senior Auror Kingsley Shacklebolt was quoted as saying that the witch (Edgecombe) set up an elaborate scheme in an attempt to break her daughter out of prison. A Trial date of the seventh of August was announced. If found guilty, Edgecombe faces twenty years in Azkaban plus fines.
Harry came over. Remus showed him the articles. Obviously it was no coincidence that Dumbledore had advised him against hooking up to the floo network. Harry wondered how the man might have known.
Harry came over and read his letter. It was from the School Board of Governors.
Dear Mr. Potter,
By unanimous decision, the British Board of Wizarding Education Governors finds that you meet all qualification for full provisional professorship. Specifically this means that we believe that you have met all qualifications necessary you be considered a full professor at Hogwarts School for the 1996-1997 and 1997-1998 school years. It is our hope that you continue your own studies on an independent basis, and complete your NEWT examinations in the next two years as you normally would. We wish to express our gratitude that you are willing to share your vast knowledge of Defense Against the Dark Arts with our country's most valuable resources – the wizarding youth. Should you require any assistance, or additional resources that the board of governors may provide, please do not hesitate to ask. You have our fullest co-operation. We truly wish you success in your new endeavor.
(Hand signed by all twelve members of the board)
Remus looked at the letter with Harry and smiled at his friend, saying, "Well done Harry! That is fantastic news. So what are your plans for the day?"
"Hermione and I are having an early lunch with Rita Skeeter."
"Is this for an interview?"
"No. I suspect that it will be more of an exchange of ideas. She seemingly has shifted her position away from being pro-Fudge to pro-light side. Remus, what's your current view on Fudge?"
"I think he is on incredibly thin ice politically. He was so closely tied to the Malfoys, and solidly supported Umbridge last year. As such, he's very weak politically. At the same time, he has done nothing in the last three months to hurt us. Dumbledore, Arthur or Madam Bones could have called for a vote of no confidence against him, and removed him from office if they had chosen to. As far as that goes, you probably could start a movement yourself if you set your mind to it. Is this a rhetorical conversation, or has he invited you for dinner?"
Harry shook his head. "Rhetorical. Why would I want to have dinner with Fudge?"
"You wouldn't but he'd probably love to be seen having dinner with you. Harry, part of my bias is quite personal. They passed some anti-werewolf legislation a few years ago that made it all but impossible for me to get work in the wizarding world. A year ago, he seemingly tried to get you expelled from the wizarding world. What we don't know is what his own views really are, unaided by Malfoy."
Hermione knocked on the door. Remus let her in.
"Hi Remus. Hi Harry. I brought bagels for breakfast."
"Thanks. Would you like coffee or tea?"
"Coffee and orange juice, please if you have any." She smiled at her boyfriend.
Hermione asked, "Remus, can we have another look at the library in the next week? I would like to go through a few more of the books before school starts. Harry, has Professor Dumbledore told you when you would be going back to school yet? The last few weeks before school starts would be a good opportunity to get you started on your individual study coursework."
Harry replied that he hadn't heard yet.
They finished their breakfast and read for a couple of hours until it was time to meet Rita downstairs. They wanted to get there first to avoid giving away the location of Harry's flat. After about fifteen minutes, she came in the pub.
Harry greeted her. "Hello Ms. Skeeter. Thank you for coming to such an out of the way location. I didn't get much of a chance to talk with you last week. I wanted to compliment you on your high standard of journalism, and thank you for your discretion regarding the handling of the trial of Severus Snape."
Skeeter, appreciating his compliment, touched her curly blonde hair and replied, "Good morning Harry, Hermione. Harry, the pleasure is mine. Just so you know, here's my view on the world. It has a lot to do with my change in journalistic style. Currently I believe that we are in the middle of a pretty intense civil war. You seem to be in the thick of it. I'm not passing judgment, simply making an observation. Every time you take a Death Eater off the street, good people stand a better chance of living. I heard about your new status at Hogwarts. When you believe the time is right, I'll write something about it, not before. The last time staff changes were published prematurely, bad things happened. I believe that you are and will play a major part in cleaning up the wizarding world, now and in the future. In ten years, maybe much sooner, I see you in either Dumbledore's or Bone's position. I see either move as being good for the wizarding community. If I can help the movement by reporting fairly and appropriately, I'm happy to help. I'm not asking for anything in return. We got off on a bad start, and I just want to make things right between us. Does that make sense?"
Harry agreed, saying, "Someday the whole story will be ready to be told, and I would be happy if you were the one doing the telling. In the mean time, I was wondering if you might be willing to make a small mention that the Weasley brothers are going to re-open their store on Monday the twelfth of August?"
Rita agreed. They finished their very good lunch. Harry paid, and they parted ways. Hermione, commented, "Harry, you handled yourself very well. Can we go upstairs for a while?"
They walked upstairs. Remus excused himself, and went downstairs to have a long lunch. He badly wanted to know how things went with Skeeter, but knew that Harry would tell him when he was ready. Besides, Harry hadn't been able to spend much leisure time with Hermione lately, and was unlikely to in the last few weeks of the month. Dumbledore was likely to ask Harry to begin his personal training any day now.
They put on a CD, opened a few butter beers and sat on one of the futons. Hermione looked at Harry, and started. She had rehearsed the words for a few days, but rehearsals and live deliveries are never the same. "Harry, do you love me?"
Harry looked at her, a bit surprised at the question. "Of course. I love you very much."
She took a breath. "Harry, if I asked you to make love with me, would you?"
Harry paused for a few seconds. This was not what he had expected. "Yes. I'd really love to, but are we both ready to?"
Hermione steeled herself and replied, "I think so."
With every ounce of self-restraint that a sixteen-year-old male could possibly possess, he looked her in the eye and asked, "What's on your mind?"
She gushed, "Harry, all these girls and women are throwing themselves at you. Do you know that there are crates of fan mail stored for you at school? Half of them contain photos of pretty witches with offers of marriage or just a casual shag. How can you keep saying 'no' to them?"
"Because I only love you, Hermione Jane."
"Oh."
"Hermione, I don't care about other girls. I love you. No one else matters to me. If you want to make love with me, and we both are ready, than we will, not because you need to do something that you or I might not be ready for some wrong reason. Okay? If there are crates of mail at school, so be it. I've never seen them and I don't care about them."
"Oh."
"Hermione, I'm not looking at any girls but you. I hope you know that. When we're ready to get engaged we'll know it, but I don't think we are ready quite yet. Maybe we'll be ready this winter or next summer. We both have a pretty busy year right now. I don't want to end up on the wrong side of the kill or be killed prophecy. Being in love with you has given me too much to live for."
She gave him a soft hug, caressing his neck. "Thanks. I'm sorry to have brought this up, but I want the world to know that I love you Harry Potter."
"Oh. Thanks. I'll work on that."
"Well, how about some serious snogging with your girlfriend then?"
"I'd like that, a lot. Remus won't be up for an hour or so."
They spent a fantastic hour together learning about each other. Harry marveled at the books she must have been reading. Downstairs Remus was having a great time conversing with Tim, the bartender. Meanwhile the owl to Harry from Dumbledore that would end his youth was on its way.
Remus came up an hour later and softly knocked on the door before walking in. He sat at the kitchen table and said to Harry, "When you have time, we should look at some disbursements from the fund. I was thinking 20,000 each for the families of MacDonell and Dawlish. What about for Lee Jordan? 10,000? Harry and Hermione nodded agreement. Remus said that he'd write to Griphook that afternoon.
… - …
Wednesday - 7 August – 7:00 AM – Hogwarts
Minerva read the Prophet. She couldn't remember ever being so proud of any of her students before.
Relief Fund Helps Three More Families
Story by Rita Skeeter
The funds from the Sirius Black family estate were put to good use again this week when Gringotts estate spokesgoblin Wheelcart announced that generous donations were made to the families of fallen Aurors Nigel MacDonell and Dale Dawlish, and to murder victim Lee Jordan. This weeks grants totaled 50,000 galleons. This reporter applauds the efforts of the fund trustees.
Not only were they doing a wonderful thing for people, but they were doing it without looking for something in return. The fact that they seemed to have tamed Ms. Skeeter at the same time was an added bonus.
She showed the article to Hagrid, who was in for the morning. "They're the best, those three. Sirius would be right proud of Harry, the way he's turning out. His folks would too. Hermione's a good influence on him and on Remus too." Minerva agreed.
… - …
Wednesday morning came, and Harry had received a letter from the twins.
Harry,
You're the best. Rita Skeeter stopped by yesterday with her photographer. He took a couple of photos and said that she might be able to run an article sometime this week. With your help, things are progressing well.
Ever at your service,
Gred and Forge
Rita was certainly quick. Harry looked at the headline of the Prophet and smiled.
Bombing Victims Refuse to Give Up
Story by Rita Skeeter
The bombing victims from last weeks Death Eater attack have vowed not to let the Dark Forces get in the way of people having fun. Fred Weasley co-owner of Weasleys Wizarding Wheezes, 92 Diagon Alley told me that the popular joke shop would be ready for a grand re-opening on Monday the twelfth of August at ten AM. Co-owner George Weasley said, "Decent people have a right to have a laugh and we intend to make certain that they do." Asked about the speed that the shop was able to re-open Fred attributed it to "friendship and support from good people who believe in our cause." They vowed to have their full line of products available to pranksters, and would personally deliver any items that may have to be back-ordered.
This reporter believes that their cause is just, and wishes the brothers much success in their endeavors.
The accompanying photo showed the brothers restocking a shelf. Harry hoped that the article would be inspirational for people who saw the destruction that Voldemort had launched. Hopefully it would also be a boost for their business. Harry read his other letter.
Dear Harry,
I hope that you have had some rest and relaxation over the summer. If it is possible, I would like you to return to Hogwarts by Saturday evening 17 August. It is time to start your private lessons to begin fulfilling our obligations to you. We will begin on Sunday with a morning, afternoon, and an evening subject. If you can have your transfiguration, charms, and potions books read through, or have at least gotten a good start on them, it will be helpful. I will send you a portkey the morning of the 17th. You will want to have purchased a larger trunk by that time, if you have not yet done so.
I was informed of your full Professor status by the board of Governors. Be assured that the magnitude of their show of confidence is well warranted, and without precedence in my (considerable) experience.
Best wishes,
Albus Dumbledore
Harry put down the letter. He knew that Dumbledore was right having him start early, but for once in his life, he was really enjoying his summer holiday. A part of him knew that the moment he set foot in those doors, the last remnants of his youth would be gone forever.
Harry refused (for the third time) Remus' offer to drive them to Neville's instead settling for a (very) thorough run through of the driving directions. Harry had been practicing on the motorcycle around the local streets for the last few weeks, and on the ground was a pretty decent novice biker. He had avoided the temptation to use the exotic features of the bike so far. He picked Hermione up at the Grangers after promising Mrs. Granger that they would ride safely and call if the weather got bad. Also Hermione promised that they would call when they got to the Longbottoms in the western edge of Kent. Emma took a picture of the two standing next to the bike in their helmets. They got on and rode off. It was another lovely summer day, sunny, warm, with a light breeze. They wore jeans and a sweatshirt, having swimsuits, Neville's gifts, and their wizard wear in the saddle bags of the Triumph. Harry was a careful driver, and Hermione was a good navigator. They found the house about an hour later. They stopped the bike after finding a place to park. Hermione was just done calling her mum when Neville came out.
"Hi Harry. Hi Hermione. Way cool bike Harry! I didn't know you had a motorcycle."
"Hi Neville," said Hermione giving him a friendly hug. "Sirius gave it to Harry."
"Wow."
Harry, saw Neville looking at it with more than casual interest. "Neville, if you want, we can go for a ride later. Okay?"
"Thanks Harry. Come on in."
They unpacked the saddlebags and brought their things in with them.
Neville's Grandmother greeted them at the door. "Mr. Potter, how nice to see you again. Good afternoon Ms. Granger. Please come in." Harry was slightly disappointed not seeing the infamous vulture hat on her head.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Longbottom."
"Augusta, Harry," she said, shaking his hand harder than he would have expected. "Ms. Granger, please excuse us for a moment. Neville and I need to have a quick word with Mr. Potter." Hermione, felt a bit hurt, but knew what this discussion would mean to Neville and his Grandmother. She found her way into the back garden.
Mrs. Longbottom, guided them into the study, closed the doors and motioned for Harry and Neville to be seated. "Harry, I know that you have had to tell the story before, but please indulge an old woman and her grandson. Please tell us what happened to Bellatrix Lestrange. Spare no details."
Harry sat down in one of the brass button trimmed leather wingchairs. "Okay ma'am, but before I start I need to say that I am not proud of having taken a life." They nodded in respect. "Lestrange had just walked out of the Weasley brothers joke shop after torturing our friend, Ron Weasley. A total of seven Death Eaters came out of the door. They weren't looking our way. They were too busy casting the Dark Mark. Delores Umbridge was attempting to seal the door after one of the others had started a fire in the shop, and a bomb had been planted in the building. I called the Ministry for assistance. Auror Tonks asked George and I to help her stop the Death Eaters. I fired first, at the person who I thought was the leader of the group. It turned out that I had hit Bellatrix in the shoulder with a Reducto charm. It hit pretty hard. Her arm came off at the shoulder. She was bleeding pretty badly. She turned to me, shrieked and apparated away. The Aurors found her dead a few hours later. Meanwhile, two others were stunned, and I killed Delores Umbridge with the same spell. The others apparated away, and were found later. George got his brothers out safely and Lee's body. Other Aurors arrived and got the other kids out of the building before the bomb went off. Tonks had been wounded pretty badly, and I was able to help her a little before the Mediwitches arrived. It was all over pretty quickly."
Mrs. Longbottom looked like a woman who had just been told that she had won the lottery. "Thank you for sharing the story, Mr. Potter. Please have a drink with Neville and myself. I know that her death will not bring Frank and Alice back to health, but it does bring some degree of closure for me." She poured them each a glass of single malt whiskey. They drank together. One hundred and ten year old Scotch was not a taste that Harry would soon forget! "Stop by and see me before you leave Mr. Potter. Please enjoy your day."
Still feeling the Scotch on his throat, Harry replied, "Thank you, Mrs. Longbottom."
Ginny and Luna were out by the pool in their bikinis. Neville was looking at a copy of Quidditch Weekly while watching Ginny in her swimsuit. Harry and Hermione changed into their bathing suits and joined the people out back. Susan Bones came a little later with Seamus. They had a really good time together. Alastor Moody came later along with several of the retired Aurors that had known Frank and Alice.
Dinner was a bit formal for Harry, but he knew that was how Mrs. Longbottom ran her home.
Neville liked all of the things that people had gotten him. He seemed to like the wand holster from Hermione the best. "Thanks Hermione. I always wanted one, but Gran wouldn't get me one."
She hugged him. "Happy birthday, Neville. It's very nice to see you again. Harry and I want to spend more time with you this year."
Before it was time to go, Harry remembered that Mrs. Longbottom wanted to speak with him. She brought him back into the study and closed the door.
"It is known within certain close circles that you and your friend Mr. Lupin are directing a trust fund to aid deserving war victims. It is my fear that the need will soon exceed your current resources. I ask you to accept this small contribution, and continue with your efforts." She handed him a Gringotts draft for 50,000 Galleons. Harry didn't think the Longbottoms to be wealthy, and realized the relative magnitude of their donation.
"Thank you Mrs. Longbottom. I hope to be able to return this money to you because the war ends early. Perhaps the need will not be as great as we fear."
She shook her head slightly and admitted, "I fear that you will be looking for additional contributions far sooner than you think. I cannot thank you enough for your efforts. May the wind always be at your back, Mr. Potter."
… - …
Friday morning Remus had picked up Ron at St. Mungo's. He had other errands to go on, and left. Harry met Ron outside the door. They walked into the Black Dog and ordered a pint with their lunch. Harry opened his wallet and handed Ron a slip of parchment with the words Harry's place is above the Black Dog pub on it. He said, "Read it to yourself and give it back please." Ron looked where Harry pointed. A doorway appeared.
Ron grinned. "Wicked."
Harry paid for their lunches, unlocked the door, and they went up the stairs. Harry unlocked the other door and invited his buddy inside.
To say that Ron was awestruck would have been an understatement. Harry could only compare Ron's reaction to his own the first time that he had been taken to Diagon Alley. "Harry," he said, "This is fantastic! Look at all of this stuff."
Harry replied, "It's not fancy, but I like it."
"Harry, what is all this stuff?" asked Ron pointing to the entertainment center. Harry showed him the big TV, the CD player, and the DVD player. Ron was amazed. Harry sensed that an inherited trait was about to display itself.
"Sit down. I'll get you a butter beer. Harry went into the kitchen. Ron was still looking around. He noticed the various books that were on the still mostly empty bookcases.
"Wow Harry. These aren't class books. Have you read any of them?"
Harry nodded. "I've read quite a few so far."
Ron looked puzzled. "Why? School doesn't start for another three weeks."
"It's information that I want to know," Harry said, putting away the restricted Auror training books. Director Bones had been quite clear that they were not for public consumption. It occurred to Harry that Ron didn't know that he would be teaching in the fall. He let it go for a moment.
Ron asked, "Do you like living here by yourself?"
Harry sat down, pointing to the other stuffed chair for Ron. "Actually, Remus has been staying with me for the summer. After my aunt and cousin were killed, there was no reason to stay at Privet Drive any longer. Remus offered to have me stay with him at Grimmauld Place, but this seemed better."
"I'll say so. No one to tell you to de-gnome the garden, or when to get up, or to make your bed."
"True, but if I don't make breakfast, I don't eat. If no one cleans the dishes, I won't have any clean ones."
"I see your point. Harry, you need a house elf."
"No I don't, but I do miss Dobby."
"That nutter? Get a proper house elf, Harry."
"No. Thanks."
Ron changed the subject. "Do you think that Dumbledore will let you back on the house team this year?"
"I won't be playing Quidditch on the Gryffindor team. That was my choice."
Just then, Hermione knocked softly on the door. She let herself in, and said "Hi Harry." She saw Ron, walked over, and gave him a friendly hug. "It's good to see you, Ron."
"It's good to see you too, Hermione. Did you know that Harry isn't going to be playing on the Quidditch team this year?
Hermione looked at Ron for a moment. "Well they don't let the teachers play, do they? Harry is teaching DADA this year."
Harry looked embarrassed. This wasn't how he envisioned the conversation playing out. He admitted, "I was getting around to telling you, Ron."
Ron composed himself. Apparently he had a lot of catching up to do. "That's brilliant!" He was grinning. "Finally there will be a proper teacher for the subject. That explains all of the books. What will you be doing?"
Relieved at the lack of an outburst, Harry explained, "I'm getting tutored for my own classes in the mornings and evenings. I'll be teaching the practical portions of the defense classes in the afternoons. The defense classes will be longer than the other classes. Moody will be teaching the theory pieces. Remus will be teaching the third year classes. The goal is to prepare everyone so they stand a much better chance of being able to defend themselves."
"That's a great idea."
"Thanks. So pretty much, my summer started out with moving here and seeing Hermione. Then we had the attack at her parent's house and the trials that went with that. Then there was the attack at your brothers' and the trial that went with that. I've been spending a lot of time with Director Bones. Hermione and I have had the chance to do a little shopping, but that's about it. Oh. I forgot. I also spent a week in the hospital wing."
Ron frowned and replied, "So much for the hospitals. At least the healers came in to talk with me. How about a game of chess?"
Ron proceeded to beat Harry in a surprisingly close match. The pieces hadn't been used much, and did not give either player an advantage.
Harry told Ron, "You'll need to hold tryouts for the team this year. Hopefully someone better will turn up for beaters. Have you thought about it?"
"I was hoping to hold tryouts for all positions for the team this year. Ginny may want to play chaser this year rather than seeker."
"Has McGonagall talked with you about being captain?"
"Yes. She sent me the badge the day b, before the a, attack."
Harry patted Ron on the shoulder. "Brilliant. I know that you deserve it, and will do a great job. Maybe the Slytherins will play fair this year."
"Thanks, Harry."
"For what? You deserve it."
"Not that. For being there for me and my brothers."
"That's what friends are for. Let's call Luna and see if she can come over tomorrow." Harry dialed her number on his cellular telephone, and handed it to Ron.
"What's this?' he asked, handing it back to Hermione.
"Oh, for goodness sake, Ron. It is a cell phone. Hello Luna. It's Hermione. I'm over at Harry's with Ron. We were wondering if you could come over tomorrow? That would be great. It's the same place that we had the party. Hold on for a second. Ron wants to say 'hi' to you." She handed Ron the phone.
"Luna. Can you hear me? I can hear you."
Harry and Hermione looked at each other, trying not to laugh. They walked down the stairs. Hermione said, "If ever there was someone who needed to take muggle studies it was Ron."
Ron came down a minute later, and handed Harry the phone. "I don't get it. There's no wire."
"That's the idea. You can take your phone with you," said Hermione.
"That's how I was able to call for help that day in Diagon Alley," said Harry.
"Oh. Brilliant."
Harry said to Hermione, "Let's have your parent's and Diane over for dinner tonight too. It would be a nice treat for your folks not to have to cook, and I haven't seen Diane since we went flying together."
Ron looked at Harry like he was crazy to invite another girl over in front of Hermione. She saw the look and explained, "Diane is a good friend of my mums. One of her grandparents was a squib. She knows about our world. She was over at your parents' house the other day flying with Harry." She made the calls, and set everything up.
Remus came in, and greeted Ron. He told Harry that he'd be gone for part of the evening, and would miss dinner. He asked them if they needed anything before he left. They had everything that they needed for dinner, so he left. He knew that Dr. Turnbull would be coming over, and eventually have the chance to talk with Ron. He wouldn't want any more company than needed.
Harry made a pan of split chicken breasts over rice in a white sauce. It was very good. Ron was amazed that his friend could cook so well. It was doubtful that Ron could make a piece of toast by himself. Emma suggested that they go for a walk after dinner. Diane and Ron stayed behind to talk a bit. An hour and a half later, they went back upstairs. Ron was in tears talking with Diane. They excused themselves, and had desert in the pub. Tim had made a great pie. Dan and Emma excused themselves, and asked Harry to walk Hermione back later. They thanked Harry for dinner. Harry said, "The pleasure was mine, Dan and Emma. Thank you for coming. I'll have Hermione home by ten."
"Eleven would be fine, Harry. Thanks again for a great dinner." They left leaving Harry and Hermione alone to visit for a few minutes.
"I love you Harry," she said, brushing a pie crumb off of her blouse.
"I love you too Hermione." She gently kissed him. "Let's go see how Ron is doing."
They walked up the stairs, and opened the door. Things seemed to be in better order. Ron was talking about Quidditch, and bragging up Harry's seeker exploits.
They all laughed when Diane stated that Harry seemed like a pretty responsible flyer.
Ron said that Harry had always had a thing for winning, even if it meant getting his arm broken or falling off of his broom. "He had a real mania about winning until Umbridge kicked him off the team."
Ron hadn't realized what he had said. The room fell silent. Finally Hermione recovered, and said, "That chapter is closed. Let's move on. Harry, it's getting late. Could you walk me home now?"
Harry had made one of the futons up as a bed for Ron. Diane was getting ready to leave too. She thanked Harry for dinner, and gave Hermione a hug goodnight. Harry told Ron that he'd be back in a few minutes, after he took Hermione home. They started the walk home. Hermione said, "That toad has the common sense of a flobberworm."
"He didn't mean anything by it. I'm not sure what anyone's told him. We'll sort it out. Don't worry about it."
"You're a very good friend to him, Harry. He's lucky to have you as a friend.
"You are my friend. He is my buddy. I can count on you. Ron is fun to hang around with and do stuff with. There's a difference. Goodnight, Hermione. I'll see you tomorrow."
Harry walked home reflecting that Hermione was an exceptionally good kisser.