Disclaimer! I do not own Harry Potter, though if J.K. Rowling and the numerous publishers that do would like to give me the rights to this wonderful story they are more than welcome to do so. In fact, I'll make an offer of everything I own.
Chapter 7 – Owls and Surprises
The next morning Harry awoke feeling groggy. Hermione and he had spoke late into the night after they finished their studies for the day on the subject of Harry's activities. She had made it perfectly clear to him that while she did not approve, she did not fault him. She helped Harry get everything off of his chest and even explained what she had felt during that time, and for that, Harry was thankful.
As Harry reached the dining hall he was only slightly surprised to see Hermione already up and chatting with Remus. Both greeted him as he walked through the double doors and was presented with his breakfast, strawberry pancakes, by Dobby. He thanked the House Elf and sat down at the table to begin eating.
"Harry," Hermione began, "Remus tells me that we won't be having lessons today." Harry raised an eyebrow begging the question why. "Dumbledore has an important Wizengamot meeting that he cannot possibly miss and Madam Pomfrey was called to serve a day at St. Mungo's; all certified mediwitches are required to serve a few days at least a year. Remus cancelled due to the other's doing so. Basically we have a free day," she said happily.
"Alright," Harry said, not extremely happy that the lessons had been cancelled, "what would you like to work on?"
Hermione put her hands on her hips and gave him a stare. "Harry Potter, I don't think you fully understand the meaning of a 'free day.' We are going to do anything but work today, and no buts," she added when Harry looked as if he was going to protest.
Resigned, Harry nodded his head. "So what's the plan?"
Remus jumped in, "Well, I thought I'd let you guys go out for a while, and then we were going to head over to the Weasley's to see everybody. You must want to see Ron?" he asked Harry, who agreed.
"I need to pick up a few things Harry," Hermione said, "so you can accompany me. But first, you need to dress in something a bit more fit for the muggle world, those clothes you wear for training are just not going to cut it."
With that Hermione led him back upstairs and into his room to help him pick out an outfit. She eventually decided upon a pair of dark jeans and a green Merc tee and Harry, like every other man in the world, found that one does not argue with a woman once she has decided what you are going to wear. So it was that Harry followed Hermione back downstairs ten minutes later and out the door, Remus bidding the two goodbyes.
Hermione led Harry out of the small residential district and onto Charring Cross Road southbound. The sidewalks were not that crowded, it was 10:00 AM and most people were already at work for the day. As they made their way down the road Hermione started up a conversation centered around the color changing charm. She had acquired a number of books on muggle physics with relation to electromagnetic radiation and after understanding it all herself, she helped Harry to do the same.
Harry's brain was currently spinning, as it always did when this topic was broached, but he wasn't useless anymore. He could at least hold his own in the conversation, though he hardly said anything to advance it. In this state he barely registered the large plaza the two had just entered.
Trafalgar Square is really more of a triangle, as three major roads all pass within a football field of one another. At its center stands a 185-foot tower, topped by a seventeen-foot statue of Admiral Lord Nelson, the British naval commander responsible for the defeat of a combined French and Spanish fleet at the battle of Trafalgar in 1805, securing Britain's dominance of the sea during Napoleon's rise to power. The stone monolith dominated the square, its shadow falling over the uncaring vehicles that made their daily commutes through the heart of London.
Harry, though awed by the tower and the architecture of the National Portrait Gallery beyond, soon forgot the beauty of the square in much the same way as those drivers who passed under the shadow of the pillar, just as many fail to see the beauty in that which is native. Hermione, for her part, did not even stop talking to take a good look at the tower, she had seen it many times before.
The two continued south down Whitehall Road past many government offices, Hermione succeeding in talking the entire way, before taking a left and heading across Westminster Bridge. In front and slightly to the left of the two stood a gigantic wheel.
"Hermione," Harry said interrupting his friend who was in the middle of explaining exactly how photons of light were realized by the process of electrons jumping and then dropping quantum levels. "What is that thing?" he asked, pointing towards the structure.
Though looking a bit put off for being interrupted Hermione supplied him with his answer, a smile playing on her lips. "That is the London Eye, and our destination."
A very intelligent 'huh?' escaped Harry, and Hermione elaborated.
"That is what muggles call a Ferris Wheel. It was invented by a bridge builder named George Ferris for the 1891 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, Illinois in America. It was built to rival the Eiffel tower, but -" here she droned off as she noticed that Harry was screwing up his face at all the information. Huffing she simplified, "Basically you get in the carts on it and it takes you around so you get to see the city from up high."
"There 'mione. Now was that so hard?" Harry teased her. He got a playful smack in return.
Soon enough the two were seated in a giant car. To Hermione's surprise there had been nobody else present at the time of loading and the two got the entirety of the forty-five minute ride with just each other. As they waited to be raised Harry managed to get Hermione to speak of something other than electromagnetic radiation when he mentioned the DA.
The two of them had been frantically planning, on top of everything else, what they would be teaching the DA next year. As Dumbledore suggested they were going to keep in mostly offensive, trusting that whoever was teaching DADA would be able to keep up with whatever pace they set. The books taken from Sirius' library were of great use in this task. Though questionable in origin, there was no doubt that those books contained effective spells used to incapacitate an opponent. Many of those spells would never be taught by Hermione and Harry as they were far too brutal for what the two considered 'acceptable' for school lessons, but Harry and Hermione often found themselves attempting and succeeding in working such spells.
It was roughly ten minutes before the two actually began to see any more than they had been able to from ground level, Hermione pointing out Trafalgar Square across the street as if they had not just walked through it. As they rose, Harry got his first bird's eye view of London.
A couple of kilometers to the west lay one of the most recognizable landmarks in London, Tower Bridge. Built in the 1890's its drawbridge took a mere ninety seconds to rise and provided constant pedestrian access across via its raised pedestrian platform. Below it, though the two could only just barely glimpse the top, lay the Tower of London, wherein the Crown Jewels were held until needed for ceremonies of state. Slightly closer to the two lay Tate Modern, a renowned modern art museum housed inside an old factory building, just beyond which, Harry was assured, lay Globe theatre, which had housed Shakespeare's plays long ago.
The most interesting buildings though appeared to the south and west. There, just across the river lay the Houses of Parliament. The original houses were nearly destroyed by fire in 1834 and the now present Gothic architecture was added in the 1840s. On the north side of the building laid perhaps the most recognized clock in the world, Big Ben. It is said that a London taxicab can make a full circle within the confines of the interior of that clock tower. The 316-foot monstrosity of a clock tower had stood proudly through World War II bombings, and continued to do so to that day, chiming out the hour to all who cared to listen.
Just past Big Ben lay Westminster Abbey, the official place of coronation for any who would ascend to the throne of Britain since the year 1066. Also a place of worship, Westminster had services daily for any who practice the faith. Finally, Westminster was the final resting place for thousands of kings, knights, and other notables. There, tribute is paid to royalty and scientist alike, and there lay the tomb of the unknown warrior, a tomb for all the nameless lost in the battles for Britain.
Further out to the west Hermione pointed out Buckingham Palace, the city house of the Royal Family. Millions visited it each year to stare past the black and gold gates towards the palace, though they often found themselves distracted by the unmoving guards. Hermione and Harry shared a laugh as she recounted how one time she saw an men's glee club serenade a guard, whose stoic demeanor was cracking before he started twirling his gun, scaring the university students away.
All too quickly the ride was over and Hermione told Harry that the Weasley's were expecting them to be at the Burrow around 12:00. The two would have to travel by Knight Bus and so had to call for it when they completed the rotation and the ride. With a BANG the large triple-decker red bus appeared in front of the startled teens. Even Harry, who had ridden before, was surprised at how suddenly the bus would slam into view. The doors opened to a man who introduced himself as Butch and each paid their fare, ten sickles, before the driver was informed that their stop was Ottery St. Catchpole.
Both teens enjoyed a rather bumpy forty-minute ride as the bus sped around the country dropping off and picking up wizards and witches with seemingly no rhyme or reason. Needless to say, when their stop was called out both hurried off the bus, much to the amusement of Butch.
"If I never ride that thing again it will have been one time too many!" declared Hermione as she stepped off the bus. Harry, though not feeling extremely well either managed a smile.
"That's what I was thinking when I rode it before third year!" he laughed out.
With that the two set out towards the rather tall leaning structure ahead of them, the Burrow. As they approached Harry thought it odd that there was no noise coming from the usually festive house. It was also odd that there was no light coming from inside, in fact, Harry couldn't see inside.
"Hermione?" Harry asked nodding towards the house, "You sure they are there?"
"I thought so Harry, but, well, lets check anyway."
The two approached the house and Harry found himself feeling something was not right. Nervously he fingered his wand before making the final few steps to the front door and with a somewhat hesitant hand, knocked. The sound of his knuckles rapping the wood seemed to echo in the small entryway.
Harry turned around, "They aren't here Hermione, something's wrong, lets just get back to Headquarters."
"Nonsense Harry, they said they'd be here. Lets just have a peak inside, and if they are not there we'll go home." Harry noted that her hand too was in her pocket where her wand lay.
With a small gulp Harry reached out towards the doorknob and turned it. As he pulled the door open a small creak nearly caused him to pull his wand out of his pocket.
"Hello!" he called nervously as he stepped into the house, Hermione at his heel. "Is anyone -"
He was nearly blinded as light flooded the room. "SURPRISE!" a hundred voices called out at once. For Harry, it was the great beginning of his first birthday party, for Tonks it was embarrassing. She had been victim to both the inverting charm and a bludgeoning curse Harry had managed to fire off even before the yell had finished.
Laughter was the only response to Harry's reaction, except from Tonks that is, but no one was as loud as Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, whose guffaw would be remembered by all those present well into the school year. "Constant Vigilance!" he had called out, "Very good boy. Tonks! Improvement is necessary!"
Harry was suddenly assaulted by well-wishers and barely had time to realize how many people had actually come. The DA was there, minus Luna Lovegood who was still hunting the Snorkaks, Cho Chang, who was apparently 'out of town,' and Marietta Edgecomb, who betrayed the group to Umbridge the year before. Joining the DA were many of the Order and some ministry aurors, apparently invited by Tonks, Harry saw the entire Weasley clan, minus Percy, Kingsley Shaklebolt, Elphius Doge, Hestia Jones, Dedalus Diggle, and Sturgis Podmore, who had been released from Azkaban earlier in the year. Mundungus Fletcher was absent, but Harry assumed that was because of the standing distrust and dislikes that Mrs. Weasley had of him.
"Harry mate!" came the call from Harry's left and the black-haired boy turned to meet his best friend.
"Ron!" he shouted above the noise in the hallway as he saw the redhead moving towards him. "How have you been?"
Ron, upon reaching Harry reached out his hand; Harry took it with a smile on his face. "I'm fine mate, and you?"
"The same, better in fact, now that I am not at the Dursley's."
Ron nodded sympathetically, "I'll never forget having to break you out of your own bedroom mate. How has it been at headquarters? Dad says the new place is much better, but I haven't seen it myself as of yet."
"It's been good, I've been learning a lot. There are a lot of books in the library there, and Remus has turned out to be almost as much of a bookworm as Hermione!" Ron laughed and both looked towards the bushy haired girl that had gone off to chat amicably with Susan Bones and Lisa Turnpin. Neither of the boys noticed the other.
"Hermione's been staying there a fair amount too Dad tells me," Ron prodded.
"Yeah," Harry conceded with a slight smile, "she's a taskmaster that one. I don't think I've gotten a moment's free time what with all the studying and practicing we've been doing together." Ron nodded and the two continued to make small talk about Ron's summer vacation. Others would come and go through the conversation, almost everybody stopping by to say 'hello,' and in some cases to introduce themselves.
The party continued in this way for an hour before Mrs. Weasley appeared from the kitchen, a large rolling cart hoisting a giant four-level cake, 'Happy Birthday Harry' written in green frosting adorned the top level. Sixteen candles stood proudly, sticking out of the chocolate covering. The partygoers 'oohed' and 'ahhed' as the cake was wheeled out into the room where Harry was. Upon seeing it Harry's face lit up in a smile and he impulsively gave his surrogate mother a hug that she returned. Looking at the cake he whispered a few words to Mrs. Weasley, who nodded, before returning to where Ron and Neville were standing.
"What did you say to her mate?" Ron asked.
"Watch," Harry said cryptically. Mrs. Weasley pulled her wand out of an apron pocket and with a silent incantation added two words and sixteen more candles. "Happy birthday to you as well Neville," Harry said to his housemate with a smile.
"How – how did you know?" Neville managed to stammer in surprise.
"I found out from Dumbledore," Harry responded waving his hand as if it wasn't important, "it came up in some random conversation. Besides, you think I could get around that monstrosity to blow out all the candles myself?" Ron laughed at that and Neville joined him, slapping Harry on the back while doing so.
The Boy-Who-Lived led Neville up to the cake where they waited as Mrs. Weasley lit the candles and started the singing. Harry had never been on the receiving end of a birthday song before, and reflected on how much different it was when the song was being sung for you rather than another. After the song finished Harry and Neville both extinguished the flames dancing atop the melting wax and wicker with short blasts of breath. When they had finished, everyone clapped and screamed wildly.
Harry and Neville, as was custom, got the first two pieces of the cake and chose a spot to sit as the other's filed up to get their own slice. Both boys got their fair share of congratulations after that and the minutes slipped away as everybody indulged in the double chocolate delicacy that Mrs. Weasley had created. Soon enough, however, Harry was herded towards the veritable mountain of presents that had been deposited to the right of the entryway and the onlookers each demanded that he open theirs first.
With a smile of excitement Harry picked up the first and read who it was from, Lisa Turnpin, before ripping open the wrapping paper to discover a book, Defense – An Objective Approach. He thanked her warmly for the gift and gently set it off to the side as he reached for the next. Not surprisingly most of the gifts he received were either of books or candy. Apparently many of the DA had coordinated as to not get him the same books, Harry guessed that he being Voldemort's #1 target probably influenced their gift choices. Each of his closer friends however had gotten him something unique.
From Ron Harry received a golden snitch. Harry gave a giant shout out to his best friend who returned a smile to Harry. The snitch, he explained later, would not float too far from Harry when he had it out, it was not a game snitch, but it was neat nonetheless. Ginny's gift had been opened after Ron's and though the size had indicated another book, Harry was surprised with a framed photograph of him teaching the DA the Patronus Charm. Harry's stag shot out of his wand and wandered through the crowd of students, each of who was gawking at the display of power.
From Fred and George he received a Deflagration Deluxe. The box held the same fireworks that had been let off at the school the previous year before Fred and George had gone out, literally, in a blaze of glory. There was also a note that explained that Fred and George, though not students anymore, would be there for Harry if he ever needed them. All he needed to do was either owl them or floo call to their Diagon Alley shop and they would come. That part of the gift meant much more to Harry than the fireworks had and he let the twins know it. Some of the fireworks were used as entertainment in the later hours that followed.
From Tonks, Harry received a book on spell creation; she knew that he and Hermione were hard pressed to figure out how to make spells with the limited number of books on the subject in Headquarters. Harry and Hermione thanked her for the thoughtful book, it was the first non-defense book he received, but was not to be the last. Madam Pomfrey, though she did not attend, gave him a book on medimagic theory and another on mid-level medimagic, nothing that he shouldn't be able to handle the note attached had said.
Dumbledore's gift of a pensieve was met with as many 'oohs' and 'ahhs' as the cake. The note attached explained the possible uses of the pensieve, and how to work the magic. From those close enough to talk to him without having to yell Harry found that pensieves were very expensive and hard to find. It could take years to make a very good one. Harry decided that he would have to thank Dumbledore privately later and ask why Dumbledore felt that he needed such a gift.
Remus gave two gifts, the first being a copy of 'Marauder's Journal of Mischief.' As Harry expected, once he had given the required password, the pages revealed pranks upon pranks that the Marauder's had played on the school. Its pages also held the secret to the animagus transformation, which Harry thought could be very useful indeed. Remus' second gift was to have been from Sirius as well. A set of black dueling robes was produced from a large package. The material was made from Hebridean Black dragon hide, though it had been worked to the point of feeling almost like a thick cloth. A long cloak stretched almost to the ground behind him and was open in the front, looking much like a muggle trench coat. A thin vest covered his chest and dragon hide gauntlets added protection to his forearms; built into each gauntlet was a wand holster. The pants fit loose, and yet tight enough that they would not become a hassle that he could trip over while moving quickly. The boots were especially comfortable, being surprisingly light and supple. Harry found that while walking in them the sound he made was reduced significantly. Discovering this, he looked up to Remus, who only nodded his head in confirmation. Harry gave the older man a one-armed hug before retreating to his other presents.
But the most thoughtful gift of the night came from Hermione, who he had come to know throughout the weeks, and who had come to know him better than anyone else. She knew all his secrets now, and he would have it no other way. As he opened his gift he was greeted with the sight of some beginner to intermediate piano books. Opening the first he caught a small note as it fell from inside the cover. It was his ticket to three muggle outings, the first had been that morning. Harry rose from where he was and walked over to Hermione before giving her a hug.
"I'll see you have a normal life yet, Harry Potter," she surprised him by whispering in his ear. He leaned back from her and gave her a smile and a soft 'thanks.'
After the opening of presents Harry stood around with Neville and Ginny talking about their summer so far. Ginny's was, unsurprisingly, much like Ron's. Neville's on the other hand, was so far pretty unique.
"After getting back from the train station, Gran had a lot to say to me," Neville started. "I thought that she was going to berate me for charging after Death Eaters and into the Department of Mysteries, but I was wrong. Actually she had nothing but praise for my actions, and you have to understand that Gran hardly ever has nothing but praise to give. She wasn't even too upset about pa's wand being broken in the fighting all things considered.
"So when the ministry made it so that those that had taken the OWLs could use magic during the summer she took me to Diagon Alley to get a new wand." Neville pulled it out of his pocket at this point. "Eleven and a half inches, oak, firm, and a core of a griffin feather. Ollivander says that it is a remarkably powerful wand. Gran was ecstatic about me getting a griffin feather as the core; she thinks it assures that I was to belong in Gryffindor, and not Hufflepuff. That's where she thought I was going to be placed."
Harry gave Neville a hardy slap on the back. "That's great news Neville, maybe you'll do a lot better in transfiguration now that you have a wand that is properly suited to you." Ginny nodded her head in agreement.
"Well anyway, I wanted to go talk with Dean and Seamus so I'll see you two later," Neville informed Harry and Ginny, leaving the two of them alone.
"So these, 'weight machines' you've been using this summer, they really show," Ginny said causing Harry to tinge.
"Oh, I don't know about that," Harry replied, somewhat embarrassed.
"Trust me," Ginny continued, this time drawing a hand down Harry's arm, "it does, and it looks really good. That must have been what that muggle girl - Jess was it?" Harry nodded, "- saw."
"Umm, actually I hadn't started the weight machines then," Harry replied.
"Hmm, do you still see her?" Ginny asked. Harry shook his head. "Pity," Ginny said, moving closer. Harry didn't think she meant it one bit.
"Harry chap!" Bill and Charlie Weasley rescued the Boy-Who-Lived from their sister. "We've heard quite a bit about you lately, fighting off Death Eaters by the dozen again are we?" Charlie smiled, so did Harry, but whether it was because of the comment, or their timely rescue Harry was unsure. Ginny for her part looked somewhat peeved.
"Yeah, well, you know me," Harry replied to Charlie's antics. The three boys shared a good laugh and Ginny excused herself from the group.
"Thought you could use a bit of help there chap," Bill said, a grin on his face.
"Thank you, both, for that. I thought she got over that crush on me?"
"Well, that is what she told everybody at least," Charlie answered, "but she still keeps several photographs of you in her room." Harry's eyes bulged slightly at this news.
"I thought she was going out with Dean Thomas," he told Ginny's brothers.
"Not that I'm aware of," Bill said, "but Charlie, maybe you and I have better have a talk with young Dean later tonight." Harry mentally apologized to Dean for causing him trouble and was glad that he was not on the receiving end of the talk that those two were likely to give."
"So," Harry said trying to turn the conversation, "you two sticking around here now that you are in the you –know-what?"
"Yeah," the two said in unison before Bill took over. "You know that I've been here since last year to help out, but this year I imagine I'll be doing some more serious work. Dumbledore's got Charlie and I here working double-time on auror curriculum." Charlie nodded. "In fact, I heard you are doing the same."
"Well," Harry started, "I don't know if you'd call what I'm doing auror curriculum, but I am getting a pretty good background in defense from Tonks and Dumbledore."
"Wow," Charlie interrupted, "the old man himself is teaching you eh?"
Harry nodded and specified, "Dueling."
Bill whistled. "You must be pretty good if Albus is teaching you himself."
Harry shrugged, "I'm alright I guess. I don't know for sure really. Hey, do either of you know when our OWL results are coming in? It's the end of July and they were supposed to be here by now."
"Oh sorry Harry, you didn't here? Because of the ministry recognizing You-Know-Who's return they had to pull all available personnel to manage the task of running the war against Him. They had to take some of the OWL graders and so the results are being sent out a bit later this year."
Harry nodded, he had figured as much. "So what are you two doing for the rest of the summer?"
Charlie took over, "Well, in a few days we are all moving to Headquarters, even Bill and I. Dumbledore thinks that we are too much of a high priority target for You-Know-Who's to be out and about without protection so often. We will of course go out on missions for the you-know-what. Dumbledore even hinted that the two of us may be able to train with you sometimes. I, for one, look forward to it."
Harry groaned, which left Bill and Charlie laughing.
"Don't worry," Bill said mischievously, "it won't be too bad."
Even Harry laughed at that one. "So, will the twins be coming as well?" he asked.
Charlie nodded. "Yes, but they still have their business to take care of so they will be going to Diagon Alley every day. I'm really surprised that they have been doing so well. We never did figure out how they got enough money to buy that place in the Alley," he said more to Bill than Harry who was smiling like a wolf.
Unfortunately for Harry, Bill noticed. "Harry?" he questioned the boy in front of him.
"Let's just say that I wasn't in a mood to take prize money at the end of the Triwizard Tournament," he said before walking away leaving an astounded Bill and Charlie Weasley behind.
The party continued for the rest of the day and left Harry feeling as exhausted as if he had done a full day of training, but in a much different way. Currently he was sitting in the library with Hermione, who had her nose in Harry's brand new book on spell creation. Suddenly she slammed the book down on the table, startling Harry.
"Something wrong 'mione?" he asked, knowing full well there was something wrong.
She shook her head before placing her face down on the pages in front of her.
"Ok, well, you know I'm here if you want to talk about it," he offered somewhat lamely.
"It's Ron," Hermione voiced suddenly.
"Ron? What are you and he fighting about this time? Not spew is it?"
"S.P.E.W," Hermione reminded him before continuing. "No, he just – gah, he is such a git!"
Harry's eyes widened slightly, Hermione never used that kind of language, but he said nothing, just allowing Hermione to let it out.
"While you were talking with Ginny, Bill, and Charlie, he comes over to me and asks about 'Vicky.'" Harry groaned. "No, he and I didn't start arguing about that," Hermione said with a small laugh. "I told him that Victor and I had broken up, I just felt that I wouldn't be able to handle the long distance relationship.
"Then Ron goes off and starts to tell me how I made the right decision, and then, out of nowhere, he brings up the mountain troll incident." Harry raised an eyebrow.
"Why would he do that?"
"After asking me if I remember, he starts going on about how glad he is that we became friends. And then – then he told me that over the years he's started to develop feelings for me." Harry grimaced.
"I take it that this is not to your liking?" Hermione shook her head.
"No, I like Ron, I really do, just, not like that. Of course, when he told me I was too shocked to say anything and he took my silence the wrong way. He just assumed that I felt the same way and told me how glad he was that he got that off his chest and that I didn't reject him. And then, I didn't have the heart to tell him I wanted to."
Harry offered a supportive "ooh."
"Well," Hermione started up again, "at least I don't have to see him until the 1st of September. I can deal with it then."
"Umm, Hermione? Actually, the Weasley's are coming here to Headquarters in about a week; all of them. It was Hermione's turn to groan.
.:oOoOoOo:.
The rest of the week passed relatively quickly for both teenagers because between training and their independent research there was much to do. Friday rolled around and both students felt as if they hadn't learned enough, even if they had mastered another fifteen spells each. Hermione had made some progress on the color-changing charm, figuring out the most basic of the five arithmancy equations for both of their wands. She promised Harry that she would work on the next set of equations over the weekend, and Harry had faith that she would get those done as well, even if it stretched her limited knowledge of arithmancy.
Dumbledore arrived to take Hermione home and after she hugged Harry goodbye both flashed out of the Potter Residence via the floo. Five minutes later the floo flashed again, readmitting the old headmaster.
"Sir?" Harry questioned. After returning Hermione to her parents Dumbledore rarely returned to Headquarters.
"Ah, Harry, glad you are still down here. I wanted to talk to you."
Harry offered the older wizard a seat, which he graciously took. "Thank you Harry, these old bones of mine seem to creak even more every day," Dumbledore said with a chuckle. Harry joined him in that.
"Surely you are not that old yet professor. You seem to manage fine."
"Yes, I guess I do appear to manage fine, and I would like it to stay that way if I can help it. But, that is not what I've come here to talk about with you." The headmaster leaned forward ever so slightly and looked over his spectacles towards the teen sitting in front of him. "Harry, I told you nearly a month ago that Prince William and I had spoken about calling for a vote of no confidence against Cornelius as Minister of Magic." Harry nodded and Dumbledore continued. "I have since spoken with Prince William on multiple occasions and we have mutually decided that the date shall be this coming Sunday.
"I apologize for the short notice in this regard but I'm afraid it was a decision reached only earlier today after I revealed the extent of which Cornelius continues to cover up Death Eater activity to the young prince. Tomorrow night the prince will call for the vote at a press conference. You and I will set up a meeting with a reporter from the Daily Prophet, or rather I should say they will be setting up a meeting with us, and we will express our support for the movement. I have no doubt that we will be successful in this regard. Cornelius Fudge will no longer be Minister of Magic.
"At the same meeting with the reporter, you will let slip something about Dolores Umbridge. I will of course calm the fears of the reporter saying that I have investigated the matter and that it will be brought up before Dolores is sworn in as Minister of Magic. The information you have given us is very damning; Dolores will not survive the public outcry against her. It is my belief that Amelia Bones will be chosen as the replacement Minister of Magic. I will be offering my support for her candidacy when it is an appropriate time. I would ask that you do the same should you be asked by a reporter."
Harry nodded. "I understand professor. I will do anything to get rid of those two incompetents."
"I felt that you would my boy. Tomorrow I will be returning here and we will be speaking of this again. I believe it wise to prepare a few answers to those questions that will more than likely be asked. Also, not a word of this to anyone, it must be a complete surprise in order to successfully work, the Daily Prophet cannot know that we knew that the vote was going to be called."
"Alright sir, any specific time you wanted to hold this conversation? And how will Remus not know?"
"I will be sending Remus out on a very small task tomorrow morning, say eleven o'clock. I would like you to be ready by then if possible."
"Of course sir, I'll be ready."
.:oOoOoOo:.
"Mr. Dumbledore, Mr. Potter, thank you so much for meeting with us today. I am Eleanor Dove and am here on the request of the Daily Prophet to ask you a few questions. If I'm not completely mistaken I believe you know what this is about?"
The lady speaking had shoulder length brown hair and was of middle age. Harry guessed around forty-five. Her voice was what many would consider melodic, which was probably good at coaxing out answers from even the most stubborn of interviewees. Harry didn't imagine that she would have to use her voice to that affect today, Dumbledore and himself would be speaking out fully against Fudge.
"Well, if I'm not mistaken then I believe the meeting concerns Prince William's recent vote of 'no confidence' in Cornelius Fudge as Minister of Magic," Dumbledore said with a twinkle in his eye. The reporter quickly confirmed this.
"Indeed. Headmaster Dumbledore, I'll start with you first. What exactly do you feel was the impetus behind the Prince's recent actions?"
"Please Eleanor, call me Albus. As to the question, I believe that it is fairly obvious that the Prince is in someway displeased at how either Minister Fudge runs his regime, or is displeased about the recent withdrawal of the Minister's previous statements that Voldemort," here Eleanor flinched, "has indeed returned. His actions, however, came as a surprise to me, though I agree with him."
"So you are of the opinion that Minister Fudge should not survive this vote?" Eleanor asked, her quill quickly jotting notes. Harry was pleased to see that it was not a Quick Quotes Quill.
"I believe that Cornelius was a good Minister of Magic, but he is not a war Minister, and a war Minister is what we need presently. Cornelius based his campaign on reform of the Ministry in a post Voldemort world, and he was correct, the Ministry needed that reform. But now, we need to un-reform much of the ministry."
Harry noted that the reporter was nodding, a good sign as he took it, before she started up again, "Mr. Potter, do you agree with what Albus had to say?"
"Mrs. Dove, I do not know what Minister Fudge was elected for, I only found out about the wizarding world when I turned eleven," this elicited a small gasp from the reporter, "I didn't even know that the wizarding world had a Minister until my third year, and his track record from there in my eyes is not very good. I will not be as kind as the Headmaster has been.
"Minister Fudge has made every attempt within his power to disrupt my life. His politically backed stories of my 'questionable sanity' were more than slanderous. He made sure that he was surrounded by people that agree with him; not the best way to ensure good political decisions. Perhaps I could forgive those things, but there is one thing that I cannot forgive, and that is Minister Fudge's blatant refusal to acknowledge the truth when it was presented to him.
"I warned the world after the third task of the Triwizard Tournament that Voldemort had indeed been reborn, I brought back Cedric Diggory's dead body to his family from that horrible experience. Minister Fudge hid the truth behind lies that he fed the public. Voldemort's Death Eater's have been active ever since his revival, I had a list of names of those that attended Voldemort's resurrection. Minister Fudge refused to believe me, he couldn't believe me. He is far too attached to his job, and probably the benefits that come with it.
"Last year, Minister Fudge forced upon Hogwarts the most incompetent Defense Against the Dark Arts professor that the school, to my knowledge, has ever had; and that is saying quite a lot. Gilderoy Lockheart was bad, but he at least let us practice, Dolores Umbridge," Harry spat the name out vehemently, "was a farce."
Eleanor seemed rather surprised by this but managed to ask, "Are you aware, Mr. Potter, that Dolores Umbridge, as the Undersecretary to the Minister is first in line to ascend to the post?"
"Yes, I am aware of this, however, I would urge the Wizengamot, in their estimable wisdom, to not swear Dolores Umbridge in as Minister of Magic."
"Why would you do this?" a greedy grin appeared on Eleanor's face, and Harry knew he had her full and undivided attention.
"There are a few reasons. The first being that while acting as a professor at Hogwarts, she frequently relied on torture to hide truth, namely in the form of a blood quill." If Eleanor's eyes were wide open at that statement they bugged out when Harry presented her with the back of his hand. 'I must not tell lies,' was clearly visible on his skin. Her quill was moving than Harry thought should be possible.
"Also, she admitted to myself and several other students that she had ordered my attack last summer by two dementors. During this attack I defended myself and was subsequently put on trial, before a full Wizengamot, for use of underage magic. During the meeting in which she admitted this to me she also attempted to reason to herself that she had the authority to use crucio on me to gain answers which I was refusing her."
All pretense of calmness from Eleanor Dove was thrown out the window at this last statement. "She what?!" Eleanor nearly screamed.
"She did not actually cast the curse, thanks to some timely distractions, but the threat was real enough. The final reason that I urge the Wizengamot to not swear in Dolores Umbridge as the new Minister of Magic, providing that the vote of 'no confidence' does in fact succeed, is because of her unwillingness to accept those that are not fully human. Raising Dolores Umbridge's status to Minister would damage the wizarding world's relationship with werewolves, vampires, goblins, veela, half-breeds, and even house elves. I would hope that no one so bigoted and racist would ever hold such a high position in wizarding society."
"Albus," Eleanor managed to stammer out, shock still evident on her features, "why did you do nothing about this?"
"Alas, Mrs. Dove. You will find that many of these mentioned activities occurred while the Ministry of Magic removed me from the post of Headmaster. At other times there were many limits as to what I could do due to the Ministry's Educational Decrees enacted last year. These Decree's are another reason that I feel that Cornelius should be removed as Minister of Magic, he has proven incapable of insuring that our children's education is the best it can be."
Mrs. Dove finally managed to recover enough to form more questions, but remained rather shaken and excited by what she had already heard. "Albus, do you plan to run for the post of Minister of Magic if Dolores Umbridge is unable to ascend to the post?"
Dumbledore gave a knowing smile, "No, I do not. I'm far to old to enter that branch of politics again."
.:oOoOoOo:.
It was Tuesday, August 9th, and ever since Hermione had arrived at the house on Monday morning, she had not shut up about the vote of 'no confidence.' Quite frankly, Harry was getting sick of it.
"Hermione! Enough already!" he nearly shouted as they were pouring through books in the Potter library. "I know that a vote of 'no confidence' has only succeeded once in history, and that was something of an exemplary case. You've recited the details about fifteen times! I don't think I can stand another retelling!"
Hermione looked a bit put out and Harry immediately felt bad about going off on her. "Look, I'm sorry Hermione, its just I want this to all be over too. I don't know when they are going to do the vote, but I want it to be soon. I can't handle all this pressure. Forgive me?"
Hermione didn't say anything, slightly turning her back to him. Harry gave a mental sigh. His next attempt at consoling his friend was interrupted as something pounded into the library window and fell below view.
"What in Merlin's name was that?" Harry whirled towards the noise, wand drawn. The cause of the noise soon became apparent as a brown barn owl shakily rose back into view and backed off, looking ready to try again. Hermione was the first to react and barely got the window opened before the owl brained itself on the glass.
The owl, upon entering successfully, flew around the room a couple times in joy before perching on Hermione's shoulder, puffing out its feathers in an attempt to look important.
"What is that you've got there little fellow?" Hermione asked it taking a hold of the letters attached to the owl's leg. Her eyes widened as she read what was on the envelope and she gave a whoop, jumping into the air. This of course dislodged the owl; unfortunately, it failed to recover before hitting the floor.
"Hermione! You nearly killed the poor bird!" Harry chastised
"Hoot," the sound was weak and pretty miserable coming from the creature that was still on the ground.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Owl," Hermione said as she picked the creature up off the floor, "but I was just so excited by the letter's you've brought. We'll have you fixed up in no time!" she spouted off, sounding far to cheerful. "But first, my friend Harry and I have to look at our OWL scores!"
Harry's eyes widened in dread as Hermione set the owl down on a table and handed him his letter. "Lets open them together Harry," Hermione said far too happily for Harry's taste; for his part he gave her a nervous smile before ripping open the letter and withdrawing the parchment.
Mr. Potter,
Enclosed are your results for the Ordinary Wizarding Level tests. We apologize for the delay in the sending off of these results but the education department has found itself slightly understaffed as of late. That said we would like to congratulate you on the successful completion of your O.W.L.s and wish you the best of luck in whatever career you choose to pursue based on these results.
Astronomy – Theoretical (A) Practical (A) Overall (A, 63)
Charms – Theoretical (O) Practical (E) Overall (E, 83)
Care of Magical Creatures – Theoretical (O) Practical (O) Overall (O, 90)
Defense Against the Dark Arts - Theoretical (O) Practical (O) Overall (O, 102)
Divination - Theoretical (A) Practical (D) Overall (D, 40)
History - Theoretical (D) Overall (D, 37)
Potions - Theoretical (E) Practical (E) Overall (E, 74)
Transfiguration - Theoretical (E) Practical (O) Overall (O, 87)
Total O.W.L.s – 10 (72.5)
Mr. Potter, your results would point you into the direction of Magical Law Enforcement, Teaching, Curse Breaking, or Handling of Magical Creatures. Be aware that these are merely suggestions and there are many other fields which you may choose to go into. Your school, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, has been informed of your O.W.L. results and should be in contact with you shortly in regard to the courses that you will be eligible in which to enroll.
The practical portion of the Astronomy O.W.L. was interrupted in a sufficient manner to warrant a retest. You must be present at 8:00 on the night of Saturday, September 21st in the Hogwarts astronomy tower to be eligible for this retest.
Your numerical score of 102 on the Defense Against the Dark Arts O.W.L. was not only the highest of the year, but the highest score since the current system was put into place in 1891. In light of this achievement, and your exemplary score, you are not only awarded the Outstanding O.W.L., but you also awarded an Exceeds Expectations N.E.W.T. Congratulations on this achievement Mr. Potter.
The following scoring table was used to measure the letter grades. O.W.L.s are given for each portion of the exam, they are not based on the overall score.
D: 0 - 49.9 (0 O.W.L.s)
A: 50 - 69.9 ( .5 O.W.L.s)
E: 70 - 84.9 (1 O.W.L.s)
O: 85 - 100 (1 O.W.L.s)
'Well that wasn't as bad as I had feared,' Harry thought with a smile. Ten O.W.L.s! That was slightly over half again as much as Fred and George had, together. He chanced a glance at Hermione who currently seemed absorbed in the paper, and quite excited by something. Glancing over her shoulder he saw why. Hermione had gotten fourteen O.W.L.s. Not only that, but a special note at the bottom indicated that she had placed 4th of everybody who had taken the test this year.
"Harry!" Hermione exclaimed, "do you know what this means?" she pointed to her score that indicated that she was ranked 4th.
"Umm, that you were 4th of everybody who took the test?" Harry offered lamely.
"No! You dolt! It means that I can be 1st place if I score better on the astronomy practical! That was the only test that brought me down!" She was once again jumping up and down in excitement, the owl sitting on the table hooted in fright.
"How did you do?" she asked excitedly.
"Well, not as good as you," Harry said, smiling. "But here, have a look while I get this owl some help." Harry handed Hermione his letter before calling Dobby and telling him to bring water and owl treats. The elf promptly returned with what was requested and Harry gave the owl the refreshments (it hooted a 'thanks') before sending it on its way.
"Harry you did great!" Hermione exclaimed as she scanned his results. "Ten O.W.L.s, I'm proud of you!"
"Not nearly as good as your fourteen," Harry said, "but I suppose that if everyone was as smart as you then these grades would be measured slightly different." Hermione, to Harry's pleasure, tinged slightly at the praise. Harry would have pursued his advantage had Remus not burst into the room.
"Harry!" the werewolf yelled out. "Fudge was voted out! They did it! And they are reviewing Umbridge's eligibility! Oh happy days!" The older man started dancing around the room in what Harry imagined was a very practiced dance, perhaps even one in which the other marauders often participated. For his part, Harry couldn't help but start dancing with the older wizard.
"When did this happen Remus?" Harry asked, the excitement in his voice almost palpable.
"Just now! Arthur just dropped by via floo to give us the breaking news! YES!" Remus, still unable to contain his joy pumped a fist into the air, a move that seemed to bring new light to Remus' often decrepit features.
Harry and the older wizard continued their celebration and Hermione soon joined in as well. The elation lasted well into the night and many Order members dropped by to partake in it. Even the normally stoic "Mad Eye" Moody was seen in an unusually happy mood.
Amongst the Order members to come was the entire Weasley family, who chose to capitalize on the confusion caused by the vote of 'no confidence' and move out of the Burrow in relative secrecy. Their presence was announced as Ron burst into the house through the front door lugging a large trunk.
"Bloody hell mum, what do you got in this thing?"
"Ronald Weasley! Mind your tongue!" came the automatic response.
And so it was that chaos came to the house. The remaining month before Hogwarts came back into session was starting off in a rush, and Harry briefly wondered how he would survive it with his best mate and Ginny, who apparently still had that crush on him, in one piece.
.:oOoOoOo:.
The description of Trafalgar Square is accurate; it really is a wonderful site.
The history of the Ferris Wheel is accurateThe description of the sights from the London Eye are accurate, as are all descriptions of the buildings given.
Electromagnetic Radiation is a technical term for light. The visible light range is in actuality very small in relation to the entire spectrum. Infrared light, Ultraviolet light, X-Rays, Microwaves, and Radio Waves are also considered in this category.
(A/N: So here it is, finally. Sorry to all those who have been eagerly awaiting this chapter, but I have been extremely busy. I had relatives galore over at my house till the 9th, and since then I've been madly trying to get ready for the next semester of college.
Few reviewer questions answered, this will be a Harry/Hermione fic, as you can probably tell is in the making from this chapter. Here is Ron, hope you won't be too disappointed in his part in the story. Don't worry, he will still be hanging out with Harry and Hermione, it's just that Ron is quite different from his two friends, in my story at least.
To 'reviewer,' if you are still reading this then I am glad you continued, if you find out what annoys you about Hermione in my story then do tell, I am willing to listen to what you have to say. I'll try to work on her character some, I think that she doesn't have much depth yet; I will try to fix that.
Like I said in the previous chapter, at least I think I did, Jess is done with, and she has served her purpose in the story and is not important to the development of the rest.
Also, I have created a Yahoo! Group for my story, the link is my 'homepage' button in my profile. There you will be able to chat about anything related to, or not related to, my fic. I only ask that conversations be kept civil. If you have participated in RossWrock's Yahoo! Group then you know how the links section works. If you would like you may post links to your favorite stories there for others to read and enjoy. You may also blatantly promote your own fic.
So Harry finally starts to use his fame for something. What will come of this? Will Dolores Umbridge be successfully passed over as Minister of Magic? Will Harry assassinate her if she is sworn into that office? What did everybody think of the gifts? Any good? You might care to know that I suck at picking out gifts, so I imagine those didn't turn out as well as I would have hoped. Oh well.
Did anyone catch on that Harry's birthday was going to be in this chapter? I've kept the date in this world meticulously, and I believe that all my references to weeks and days made it into the chapters. Finally, the next chapter will, hopefully, cover all the way through the opening feast. That is what I had originally planned for it. However, I may have to break it up into two chapters depending on how long certain events take to get out. As it is, I'm following a very relaxed outline for this fic, I have all the major events planned, but nothing minor. I try to include at least one major event per chapter with a bunch of filler, which I write when I think of it.)