A/N: To those that have reviewed added me to their favorites or their alerts - I thank you! To Texy and her friend granger2malfoy, thanks for putting up with my complusive perfectionist personality, yoour help is more than I can ever repay. To Texy: I still urge you to write your own fic...you are too amazing with words. For all those silent readers...PLEASE REVIEW it keeps writers wanting to write. Enjoy!

The Underdogs

Landing in the entry way all three fell from exhaustion and the added weight. Madam Pomfrey was on hand to begin healing the injured. She quickly fed Remus a potion for pain and healed his cuts while Mrs. Weasley healed Tonks' cuts and bruises. She had a broken wrist and would have to wait for Madam Pomfrey.

"Stop fidgeting like a school girl, really he'll be fine."

"Quit telling me he'll be fine! I don't need to be treated just have her help Harry; especially since he has a knife sticking out of his side."

"WHAT?" Everyone whirled around to see Harry standing there holding his side as he vaguely hid a knife handle poking out between his fingers. "Oh Merlin, why didn't someone tell us sooner." Ginny stepped to Tonks as her mother left to tend to Harry.

"Here, I can heal your wrist if you want. Are they going to be ok?"

"I hope so Gin…I hope so."

"There that should do it. Madam Pomfrey used a calming charm on her. She's up in his room waiting."

"Thanks Gin…" Gasps filled the hall as Harry collapsed when the knife was removed.

Wincing, he tried to breathe. The pain on his side was almost more than he could take. The knife had punctured his lung. His neck was sore from however he laid. What is that sound? He lifted his head to find his bed surrounded with…four others who were snoring. He grinned to himself; they are loyal. Where is Mi? He turned his head to see what he had laid on…his eyes met cinnamon ones. Merlin, she's beautiful! His head was on her lap as she leaned up against the headboard of his bed reading a book. "Hi," barely in a whisper was all he could manage. He gasped for another breath.

"You really should stop doing these things to me Harry, it's rather impolite." Her face was serious as her fingers stroked his hair; he couldn't help but laugh to himself, wincing in pain and gasping for more air. "Don't laugh at me Harry James Potter…I was worried! Scared out of my mind! In all fairness though…congratulations you can apparate!"

"Oh Mi…" he found it hard to talk thru the difficulty of trying to breathe. "I'm…sorry. If…it…helps…I missed…you."

Fighting to hold off her tears, she lowered her head and kissed him. "Move over, my back is killing me." She lay down next to him as he pulled her back close against his chest. "Get some more rest Harry; you have a lot of explaining to do in the morning." When she heard his slow breathing and realized he was asleep, her tears finally fell. She knew, from that night she had entered his mind in his first week here, she was in love with him. Her best friend.

"Shh…you'll wake everyone up."

Whispering in her ear, "So, it is my bedroom after all."

"Stop doing that, it tickles."

"I can't help it if this is how we are laying…your ear is right by my mouth…of course that does let me…" he tugged at her ear with his mouth, slowly moving to kiss the back of her neck.

"Stop it!" With this she turned around in his arms to face him, foreheads together arms around each others waist and legs tangled together. "There now it won't tickle my ear when you whisper."

"That won't be a problem seeing as this has it advantages." Kissing her slowly, pouring all their concerns of the past evening into it. Her kisses were tantalizing, he fought the urge to moan as to not wake the others. He just wanted time with her. Slowly releasing her lips he smiled, "Are you going to tell me how you pulled off that little trick of yours the other night?"

"There's not much to tell, I was freaking out when you disappeared…Isabella came and told me I could talk to you. It took me all day to do it. She walked me through it though and she finally found away to make it work. We have that nice little broom ride to thank for it." He grinned remembering how she unbuttoned his shirt like a pro. "It was so strange, it was like I was in the room with you but I could only talk to you, I could feel you though, I tried to touch your hand…it felt like I was holding it, but I wasn't. Does that make sense? She told me I had to link to the air element to do so and that the air would carry me over the water, earth, and fire. Strangely, it did, it was like I was flying. Apparently it causes a lot of that element though; the office looked like a tornado had hit."

"There was a breeze around me as well. It felt weird, but never in my life had I been so happy to hear your voice as I was then…I didn't know what to do when I suddenly ended up in a locked room. I didn't get Tonks up until late morning; she had been hit by at least three stunners."

Feeling him tense, "it's ok, you're safe now. You did it again, you survived and brought everyone back safely with you."

"I wouldn't use safely Mi, hearing him scream…"

"Don't do this Harry; don't think just because he was injured you didn't save him. He's going to be fine. I just can't believe Snape, didn't help more…I wish I could have seen you punch him!"

Smiling ear to ear, "Potions is going to be so horrible, while he's yelling at me, I have a wonderful thought to live on." She buried her head in his shoulder trying to muffle her laughter. "Shh Mi; you'll wake the others." He loved waking up to her; he loved having these moments. It felt weird at the same time though. He knew the others would be told but for now, it was their secret. He couldn't believe they had all fought to stay in here with him. Their friendship and dedication still astounded him since he didn't feel he deserved it. Now he had this beautiful girl lying in his arms, having a private conversation about a connection he would have to no one else. He remembered how he was at the beginning of summer; all this is because of her. How do you thank someone who has done so much for you? He wasn't sure but he would spend a lot of time trying. He smiled caressing her mouth with his.

"A knut for your thoughts?"

"I don't know…I guess everything that happened. I can't believe they are mages. My mind is full of so many different things. I was scared to death when I saw Harry pull me out of those chains. I still can't believe he was there."

"Don't think about that…I don't want to think about that. I was so scared I had lost yo…" she broke down. Crying on his shoulders as he whispered reassurances in her hair, kissing the top of her head occasionally. Rubbing her back as she shook; thoughts ran through his mind of the first morning after his transformation. He was in love and for once in his life it was returned after knowing of his circumstances. So much happened in such a short time. He had to talk to Harry; he knew that he approved of them seeing each other but things had been said that changed all of it. He was in love and she loved him…now what the hell do I do?

"I-I'm sorry, I don't usually break down like this."

"Stop. A lot has happened in the past four days. Besides, isn't this what you do when you are in love with someone?"

She looked at him in surprise, she knew they had told each other how they felt but hearing it like that made it more…real. "I thought maybe you might have had second thoughts."

"Second thoughts; the only thought I have had is telling Harry. Honestly I'm not sure where to go from here. This is new for me and I can't get the information from books, normally I would talk…"

"I miss him too." Her voice quivered at Sirius memory. She missed her cousin terribly. She held him tighter. "If you don't mind me asking; what are you going to tell him?"

Chuckling, "I have no idea. If you say no I will understand, but I thought you may want to tell him together?"

"Are you sure? I thought you might one time alone. I- I…sure, if it is what you want?"

"It is. I guess we should get up and get another talk over with." She laughed as he rolled his eyes sarcastically. There had been a lot of serious discussions lately.

"Should we wake them?"

"No, let them get some sleep. Besides, if Ron is still here we have a better chance at getting some food." She stifled a laugh by turning into his shoulder as he put an arm around her neck.

Breakfast was cheery. Mrs. Weasley and Mrs. Granger were cooking pancakes and bacon. Isabella was nagging Dumbledore as he tried to help when he needed rest. Harry was so relieved that Remus was safe he even said hello to Dumbledore willingly. Tonks had just come down and said Remus was getting cleaned up. Harry smiled as he poured syrup on his pancakes. "Are you doing ok?"

"I'm fine thanks to you. A rumor is floating around that you are starting a special training today. Any truth to that?"

Blushing Hermione answered for them, "some."

"Well, you'll just have to dish with me later." She leaned over to Hermione's ear and whispered, "what is up with Dumbledore and his lady friend." Hermione laughed at the use of her words.

"I'm not sure, but you know me…I plan to find out!" With this the girls filled their plates giggling and carrying on as everyone visited. After they ate Isabella asked Hermione to follow her as Dumbledore motioned for Harry. "See you soon." He kissed her cheek and stepped into the office.

"Are you feeling well enough for this today Harry?"

"Yes sir, are you sure we should do this? I heard…about what happened. I'm sorry, if I had known…"

"I agreed to this Harry…I was not angry with you, but at myself. This barmy old codger felt enormous guilt for the ramifications my decisions caused you. I only hope one day you will forgive me." It disturbed Harry to see so much sadness in his eyes, no sign of his trademark twinkle. He looked tired and worn out.

"You know sir; I'm not sure this was such a good idea after all. In all honesty I had no memory of that incident…I'm not sure of what else I may have blocked out of my mind. I'm not sure if I want to learn any more. What memories I did have were bad enough, but now…I know more and I'm not sure if that is good." He looked at his hands in his lap taking a deep breath. His fingers combed through his hair.

"What are you saying you would like to stop?"

"I think so, I think you have a good enough idea…I remember enough to know it wasn't the only time I tried…that…it only got worse, but I hate thinking about it."

"You know, this is your decision…"

"That's a first," he mumbled under his breath.

Dumbledore just nodded. "Are there any other ides you might have or wish to speak of?"

Thinking for a moment, "actually there is." He took a deep breath. "Maybe we can work another deal out instead."

"What do you have in mind?"

"The prophecy." Dumbledore steepled his fingers under his chin bracing himself. "I want to take a bigger role, train harder, maybe take more of an offensive stance in this war. I'm tired of the people I love dying or being punished for being close to me. Remus was the last straw. I want Voldemort to pay!" Albus raised his eyebrows at the hate blaring in his eyes. "I know you are thinking of something…please haven't you learned from your mistakes about keeping things from me. I have been fighting in this since I was eleven! I WANT IT TO STOP! I WANT TO BE NORMAL…BUGGER!" he threw another vase at the wall.

"Will you grant me time to consider the options? You must know that whatever decisions are made I will need to have Remus's approval."

He raised his eyebrow, "You'll think about it?"

"I will give it great care and consideration. First you must understand that you have a lot to learn before you can fight him properly. You have a little over a week until the train leaves for Hogwarts…until that time you must promise me to train and study hard." Harry nodded yes slowly. "I also expect you to agree to stay out of the fight until a decision is made between Remus and me. Do we have an agreement?"

"Yes sir, but only until September first; after that all bets are off if an agreement isn't reached."

"That's all I can ask of you. Shall we talk about your mage abilities?"

They spoke for most of the morning. Fascinated by all this, Harry listened and asked all the right questions. "Sir, how did Mi talk to me?"

Sparkling blue eyes was all that showed his amusement, "it was quite fascinating was it not? I believe it had to do with the bond the two of you share. She is an amazing witch. If I were to bet, I would bet that it was your new found affection for one another that allowed her to reach you. She knows you well. Harry, when two people are so connected, they form an amazing form of magic; but when those two are also mages…their power is endless. Magic comes from with in us; some magic like Tom's is willed through negative emotions while others are generated by positive ones." Seeing his concentration; Dumbledore tried another way. "Take the patronus for example. It is achieved only by a happy memory. This is a positive emotion but the killing curse takes hate the most negative emotion of all. Your mother saved you through love." Nodding Harry began to see the difference. "Now, for a mage, these emotions fuel the rawest of all magic in us. The more raw magic that resides in us leaves more chances to use those core elements of ancient magic…earth, fire, wind, and water. Our emotions when strong enough draws that raw magic from those elements, allowing us more possibilities. Am I making this clear enough for you?"

"I think so…what you are trying to say is the amount of raw magic we possess is decided by how much of the four elements we can use?"

"Couldn't have said it better myself Harry. Hermione used the amount of magic she had combined with the strong emotions felt for you linking to the element of air. She used the air to carry her thoughts to you. Some cultures may call it a form of meditation."

"Like an owl carrying a message?"

Dumbledore laughed slightly, "That is one way to look at it. Interesting concept I might add as well. You know; your parents fell in love about this age…the Potter line has always been lucky at finding their true loves early." He watched as Harry contemplated his thoughts. "Shall we join the others?" They stood and proceeded to the training room.

Entering the training room Harry saw Neville and Ron dueling against Bill, Emmeline, and an Order member by the name of Twill. Ginny and Luna were quickly starting to take control over their duel against Tonks, Remus, and Shacklebolt. He smirked…pretty impressive. Isabella and Hermione were in the opposite corner standing over a small box. "How is it going Mi?"

"Oh, Harry we can do wandless magic. Isn't that exciting?" Kissing her cheek with a grin on his face. "How did it go?"

"It went fine…we can talk about it later. What else have you been doing?"

"Apparating!" She said bouncing on her toes. "Isabella also cloaked this room so any underage magic couldn't be detected and look at how much better they have gotten over the last couple of days with their own wands. Neville is amazing Harry watch him." He turned to see Neville really beginning to overpower Bill. There was a few spells Harry didn't recognize; he made a note to ask later. "He's completely different."

Remembering with pride, "No Mi that's Neville. His spells have improved and the new wand gives him more control and power but that is the way he dueled at the ministry…refused to leave my side. After he got punched and couldn't say the spells he just started physically attacking them…saved my arse."

"It's because of you. Don't look at me like that. You gave him that confidence Harry; you gave it to all of us last year." Pausing to consider her next thought she took a deep breath, "Bella was telling me that last year's DADA scores were the highest in history."

"Mi don't say it was because of me…it was you and Ron's idea and you helped plan the lessons."

Blushing she looked at her hands. "Ok, we both helped. Agreed?"

"Agreed. Let's go learn some magic." He wiggled his eyebrows making her laugh.

"Everything hurts…I can barely move."

"At least you didn't go flying into a wall."

"No, but I did get thrown against the ceiling a couple of times."

"None of you are as bad off as this." The group broke out in laughter again as they turned to see Ron still had the tail of a peacock. "Some friends you all are. Laughing at a man in his time of need. I can't even sit down."

Harry taking sympathy on his best mate offered help. "I could always pluck them out for you."

"Have you gone mental bloke?" His facial expression just caused more laughter.

"You know Ron those would make lovely quills. Sure you don't want us to take them off for you? Might be able to sell them."

"Really? NO…leave my arse alone."

"So, what did you two learn today?"

"I learned to apparate and we began meditation and wandless magic."

"Wandless? I thought that was almost impossible." Hermione seeing Harry nod his head knew he was bracing himself to tell them.

"I think we need to tell you guys a few things." She looked at Harry who took her hand giving it a little squeeze. "After Harry's session with Dumbledore the other day…we learned something." No wonder Harry always hated this; it's hard. "Harry and I…see we are…"

"What she's trying to tell you is we are mages." They looked nervously at their friends whose eyes had gone wide.

"When you decide to change you really go all out don't you?" Everyone looked at Ginny astonished at the casualty of her voice. "What? I think it's great. If you're going to be at war – at least make sure you are on the side of all the powerful people!" She batted her eyelashes innocently which caused the group to howl with laughter.

"Obviously while you are in a good mood is the perfect time for me to tell you the rest of the changes this summer." Hermione looked at him with apprehension. "Its good news Mi, I know that questions were asked about my sudden spending habits and all the things I have bought. I also suspect it is public knowledge around here that I got an inheritance from Sirius." Regret showed in his eyes. "I learned a few things about my parents and grandparents when I went to Gringotts."

"We were all worried about you that day…we assumed you had been attacked or received bad news."

"If finding out you are more loaded than Malfoy is bad news than I guess you will have to learn to cope with it." He gave a half smile as their eyes widened.

"Bloody hell mate! How much did he leave you?"

"RON!"

"What he brought it up? You want to know just as bad; you just won't admit it."

Hermione pressed her lips into a line, Ginny's eyes wandered around the room while Neville looked down quickly. Dreamily Luna spoke, "he is right…I don't see the problem of Ronald asking since Harry was the one to bring up the subject."

"Thanks Loo...Luna." She shrugged her shoulders and went back to lying down. "You going to tell us or not?"

He told them everything Grabblegore had told him with the exception of the twins joke shop. He bit his lip waiting for them to respond. Luna was the only one not in a trance like state. "I think it is marvelous Harry, you deserve good news." The others nodded in agreement.

"Mi, you haven't said anything in a while?"

"What is there to say…wow…I can't even imagine that much money. What are you not telling us?"

"What do you mean?"

"I know you…your thumb rubs against your index finger when you haven't told us everything."

"Damn! I didn't even know that Hermione." Ginny said poking fun at her old crush on Harry.

"I do?" She raised one eyebrow as if challenging him to deny it. "Ok there is more but I want to try and surprise everyone. If I can't work it out then I will tell. Ok?"

"I'm sure I'm not the only one that needs one but I am headed to shower."

"I'm going after Neville" Ginny claimed quickly.

"Someone is welcome to the shower on the second floor too…after me of course." She had caught on quickly after spending so much time at the Burrow.

"Give me a few and someone can use mine too." Harry offered. Hermione had a mischievous look in her eye. "What are you planning Mi?"

"You'll laugh if I tell you." The group had already begun to gather their things and head out the door. "I have been dying to try your shower." Seeing Ginny and Harry's face with Neville laughing uncontrollably she turned a deep shade of red. "I didn't mean it like that. Perverts!"

"I was thinking it was a rather nice idea myself." Her face fell in shock as she punched his stomach. "Kidding, just kidding. Knowing you it was the curiosity of the whole rain effect." She nodded biting her lip. "Ok, you can use it first or I can go use yours."

"Wow, trading showers…pretty serious there 'Mione…sure you can handle it? Remember to set up a safe word in case you begin to fill uncomfortable." They laughed out loud at Ginny's sarcasm of the all too famous "Talk" they had all seemed to receive. It was finally decided that while Ron and Neville showered up here, Ginny and Luna would use the Grangers bathroom, leaving Hermione to use Harry's first.

"Are you sure you don't want to go first Harry, you shower in like ten minutes…I can just go visit Luna or Ginny in my room."

"Ok, if you don't mind." He leaned close to her ear, "besides, knowing you were in my shower may prove too much even for me." Kissing her cheek as he stepped away.

Hermione fanned herself as she stepped in the privacy of her room. "Looking a bit flushed there 'Mione."

Ginny had a wicked gleam in her eye. "It usually takes a really wicked imagination to make me look like that…usually involves something Dean said."

"Do they all say things like that? How did you get more experienced than me anyways?"

"You were busy with the dumb and dumber and saving the world, yadda yadda yadda."

"Makes sense. He just…Urgh!"

"Makes your skin tingle, lose control of your thoughts. Leaves you wanting more even though you know you shouldn't. Your knees go weak, head spins, flesh gets goosebumps and the temperature goes up about twenty degrees?"

"Yeah, all that and more."

"You have it bad!"

"Is this how you felt with Michael and Dean?"

"No, just Dean…I miss him. But when he looks at me that way…it sends shivers through my body. Makes you just want to throw them on the bed and give in to all their wildest fantasies." She sighed.

"You're not…embarrassed to say things like that?"

"Not with Dean. I noticed you aren't as shy as you might think either."

Biting her lip, "I've never felt so brave before, flirting with Harry is so easy…like today, even though I didn't mean to I liked that…"

"You could make his mouth water and his knees give out. Yeah; I saw the beads of sweat forming on his forehead."

"Merlin, we sound like Pavarti and Lavender!"

"Yes, but they do know what they are doing. I even asked for advice from them last year. I can't wait to see their faces when they find out you are dating him. It will be a classic…hope Collin has his camera ready." The girls giggled.

"Am I interrupting?" Harry asked while knocking on the door.

"No, you can come in." he entered and both girls took a quick breath. His hair was still wet, his body still damp from the shower he had a pair of very low cut jeans on that sat on his well defined hips and no shirt! Both of the girls ran their eyes up and down his torso admiring the extremely defined six pack abs. Hermione subconsciously licked her lips trying to remain calm. Ginny on the other hand had no problems, "Nice abs Harry, if you weren't dating one of my best friends I would have already thrown you on this bed and had my way with you." Both of their heads snapped around towards her as she thought 'Mione is one very lucky girl. "I assume your showers free 'Mione. I'll just go see what mum is doing." As she left she playfully slapped Harry's arse. Harry turned quickly to see Hermione laughing.

"You're not mad?"

"Why would I be? She didn't mean it, well maybe a little but she really likes Dean and she is my best friend." As he sat down she got her own ideas, "besides, she only spoke what I was thinking." She pushed him back on her bed and snogged him senseless. He had a nice figure from Quidditch to start with but since he had begun working out as well his body now surpassed all those she had seen in magazine ads. Hermione loved that it wasn't just his stomach or just his abs or legs like some guys but that his body had gained muscles everywhere. His muscled flowed flawlessly not just bulging lumps but defined. She always hated large muscles like body builders but drooled over well toned bodies. He was beautiful and perfect. He was hers. This idea drove her crazy as her fingertips fluttered across his stomach. Instantly he sucked in his gut and then relaxed as he felt her fingers continuing. He gave a small shudder as the cool air hit his moist body where her fingers had touched working their way across from side to side. Relaxing he bent one knee up leaving his other leg straight that was half covered by her body; palming the side of her face his fingers rubbed the base of her neck. She loved when he did this and he knew it. He could tell by the way her body let down the last of her guard. Hearing the bathroom door open he moaned leaning back. "So many people!" He had his arm over his eyes; she enjoyed this expanded view. She giggled at his torment.

Leaning over to his ear she whispered, "Your house; kick 'em all out." As she began to nibble on his ear.

"Are you trying to torture me woman?" This just renewed her interest tracing her tongue along his ear as she began to flutter her fingers across his stomach again. Harry jumped at the chance to escape when Luna walked in. "Luna! So glad you could join us. Please come in, Mi was just heading to the shower." Knowing that if she hadn't saved him he would have acted on his thoughts. The girl giggled as he jumped up throwing Hermione over his shoulder. Hermione squealed, "Stop. I have to get my things…"

"I'm sure Luna or Ginny will be happy to help you out. To the shower you go. Thanks Luna." He walked across the hall way. Luna wasn't far behind laughing as Neville, Ron, Remus, and Mrs. Granger came to see what was happening.

"Harry don't you dare throw me in a shower…I'll go my self."

"Oh don't worry Mi, I'm throwing you in a cold shower," as he pushed open his bathroom door. Holding on tight to her with one hand and turning on the water with his other.

"ARGGGHHHH!" they all laughed as Hermione sat in Harry's shower in her clothes and shoes as the water fell like rain around her. No one thought he was going to really do it. "I will pay you back Harry! That is a promise!" he stuck out his hand to help her up. As he pulled her up he leaned into her ear, "I thought you may need to cool off after what you were doing to me." Smiling at her success she held on to his hand and gave a hard yank.

"In that case you need to cool off too." He ended up on his arse in his own shower as everyone roared with laughter. Ron was on the ground holding his side.

As the room cleared Harry got up, his jeans were wet and clinging to his body. Both of their clothing drenched, water still raining down on them, laughter dying out as he stared into her eyes. Slowly he leaned in and kissed her. Slowly and sensually; the water no longer cold. She began to trace circles on his stomach. His hand went to her neck following her circle patterns. His tongue sought entrance to her mouth as she willing allowed him access. Stepping into deepen the kiss she melted against his chest. Her arms snaked around his neck as he grabbed a handful of her curls. The heat coursed through their bodies. Their lips feeling a bit tender from the kiss. He wished he could just absorb her into his soul. They pulled apart abruptly.

"Hmm…hmm. I thought I might be able to get a word with you." Remus was just as flushed as they were. "I'll give you a minute." They still stood in the water pouring out of the ceiling. Their bodies shivering from the anticipation of their kisses. Heat still rising through their veins. He ached for her. She stared deeply into his eyes as she tried to think of what to say. How do you describe that intensity? He looked gorgeous all wet. Her body temperature shot up a few more degrees. He thought she was irresistible with her hair clinging to her face; clothing tight around her body showing all her curves. Her white t- shirt leaving little to the imagination as the lavender lace bra showed. "I better go so you can get cleaned up."

"Ok…"

"I'll just wait out here in my room with Moony." They never took their eyes off of one another as he backed out of the room.

"Looks like you need that shower." trying to keep a straight face.

"Shut up Moony. I…we…"

"I get it…I have been your age before I'll even let you in on a secret. They don't change! I'm guessing it had to do with the water falling down around her, making her skin glisten; the white shirt probably didn't help much." Harry sat with his eyes wide.

"I don't want to know why you know that."

"I'm not that old besides nothing changes when it comes to a beautiful girl. I do have one concern though."

"What?"

"That kiss, the hunger and passion behind it, and the way I saw you looking at each other. If you haven't realized it yet my young friend…you are in love with that girl."

"I am not."

"Yes…"

"No…I'm…we're too young. Way too young. I still have to fight Voldemort and school…"

"Make all the excuses you want. But I have only seen that kind of love once…with your parents. May want to close your mouth before a pixie flies in. You may not want to admit or accept it, but you are. I believe your mage abilities may have a lot to do with how quickly you felt it because…I turned the water off five minutes ago."

"You what?"

"I turned the water off trying to get your attention…the two of you kept it flowing." Harry bit his lip combing his fingers in his hair. "Don't think of it too much. Enjoy it Harry, for as long as you have." His voice broke at the thought of losing him. He was too young to be the one to rid the world of Voldemort.

"Don't Moony…I have accepted it. If I'm going to get through this I have to be positive. I know the outcome, kill or be killed, maybe even both. I just don't want to spend my time alone."

"Harry…" Remus pulled him into a hug. How does he do it? How does he stay so strong and positive? What would James tell his son when he is facing death…again?

Taking a breath he asked, "What did you want to see me about?"

"Actually Tonks and I both wanted to talk to you. Do you have a minute…I know you aren't thinking of trying to sneak in there." His smile hinted at the teasing but also the seriousness of what might have happened in there. "Not that I didn't try it in my day…you don't want to hear that though."

Furrowing his brow, "You're right, I wouldn't."

"Did you learn a lot today?"

"It was the most fun I have had in a while when it comes to classes. Isabella seems nice. What is the story with her and Dumbledore?"

"I can answer that. Wotcher Harry! You look a little wet."

"Funny Tonks…"

"Since Moony here can't seem to think like a wizard…" she performed a drying charm on Harry's clothes.

"Thanks."

"No problem." She looked at Remus unsure of what to say or how to act. He nodded his head for her to sit by him.

"Harry…the reason I…we wanted to talk to you, is about us. We wanted to know how you felt about the situation."

"I don't understand. I know that you are…seeing each other already."

"Yes, but what if it was more serious than casually dating?"

"Like marriage?"

"No, but…after the first night…and after everything else that happened. We…"

"We realized sweetie that we have stronger feelings about each other. If you don't approve of this…or would like us to back off for a while until you adjust…then that is what we will do. Neither of us wants you to be uncomfortable. You have enough changes going on in your life; we want…"

"Harry, you asked me the other day how I felt about this girl" Remus took her hand and looked in her eyes "I'm madly in love with her."

Harry watched the two look at one another. He could see all they felt. "Tonks…what about you?"

"I am madly in love with this man. But I care deeply about you; we want your blessing Harry. This could affect you if there is anything that makes you uncomfortable we need to know. Any questions or concerns?"

"Just one? If things go well…do I have to call you mum?" The three broke into laughter as Hermione stepped out of the bathroom. She took his breath away. Wearing low rise jeans, a tight purple strapless top that barely showed her stomach, she was barefoot and had her toes painted in a light purple with stars glittering on them. Her hair was wrapped in a towel, her skin fresh and clean with a bit of gloss from her moisturizer on her naturally rose red lips. Something flashed that caught his eye. Tonks spoke as he stared at her.

"Wow Hermione, you look great for just getting out of the shower. Wish I had that luck. Don't you love those jeans? I have a pair just like them." The girls talked awhile eventually taking them into Hermione's room.

Turning back to him Remus asked, "Are you really ok with this?"

"Fine, promise! Just be happy. I can see how much you like each other. I like Tonks a lot; I think Sirius would be happy for you."

"Thanks, that means a lot to us. Have you looked thru your mother's trunk yet?"

"No" a hand ruffling his already messy hair "I don't know if I want to. What if I find something in there that I don't like?"

"Is this about what you saw in Snape's pensieve? What you saw was not who you father really was. Don't let one childish act make you not want to know them. Would you let Snape finally have the satisfaction of you hating your father the way he has?"

"I'm not sure…I don't know who or what to believe…how the hell should I? I NEVER HAD THE CHANCE TO KNOW THEM! HOW DO I KNOW WHAT THEY WERE LIKE OR WHO TO BELIEVE? EVERYONE HAS SOMETHING DIFFERENT TO SAY. I NEVER KNEW THEM!" he hung his head in between his arms that were resting on his mantle. "Who do I believe to tell me the real them?"

"How long have you felt like this?"

"I guess since I saw that stupid git's memories. I know Sirius told me not to believe that was who he always was but how do I know…how do I truly know he became someone better? I can't; I'll never be able to…Voldemort never gave me the chance."

"How about we go through the trunk together, if you are up to sharing maybe some of the old gang would like to see it. Might be able to tell you some stories about your mum." He watched as the lad struggled with his decisions and feelings.

"Maybe you could go through it with me and then later will show the others. Is that alright?"

"I think it's perfect. If you don't mind I would like for Tonks to be there as well in case there is something about Sirius in there. She really misses him."

"Sure. Mi will probably be there too. Maybe the others. So much is happening I can't keep my thoughts straight. Can we do it tonight?"

"Yeah, let's go get some dinner first." With his stomach growled.

He took a deep breath as he pulled the trunk over. He was surrounded by the Grangers, Remus, Tonks, and his four closest friends. He had invited Neville in hopes of something about his parents being mentioned as well. Neville suffered as much loss as he had by the hands of Voldemort. Both desperately wanted to know their parents. Harry couldn't decide who had it worse; not being able to see your parents at all or having to visit them in St. Mungo's and them not having any idea of who you are. Maybe something in here had to do with them. Both were nervous, not sure of how they would respond in front of everyone with their feelings. Luna held Neville's hand; Ron sat beside Harry for support as Hermione sat on the other side, the adults sitting on the couches to look on from the out skirts until asked to join in more. The Grangers had asked to come lend their support and wanting to know Harry's parents better; curious as to whom such a wonderful boy came from. If this really was their daughter's true love, this was the only way to know his parents. Something they had been curious about. He opened the trunk slowly. His eyes teared as a photo album lay on top. The cover had a picture of his parents flying one night on his father's broom; both unaware of the photographer. "I remember that. Your father had finally gotten Lily to agree to go out with him. He planned a picnic by the lake and at sunset they climbed on his broom for a ride. Sirius and I had snuck out to watch. We had a bet on whether or not he would have the courage to kiss her. Ten galleons. Your mother hated flying; but that night…she was lost in a dream world as he steered around the pitch. They looked so happy and when they looked at each other…well you can see in the picture; they were in love." Harry sat the album aside. A blue blanket was wrapped around a baby book. The family crest monogrammed on the corner of the fleece blanket. He glanced through the book. He had been born in a muggle hospital. His bracelet was on the first page with his measurements and a photo of his mother and father looking at him. It was full of first time dates, footprints, handprints, and other things. Hermione told him what a beautiful baby he was along with Ginny's "aww how cute!" The trunk had school books and letters to one another. Some family heirlooms. The outfit they had brought Harry home in. A mobile of snitches; Remus told him how his nursery had been decorated. His first toy broom, like the one he had seen at the World Quidditch Cup. He picked up a jewelry box and opened it. Inside was one white gold phoenix earring. "Oh Merlin! I thought he had lost that." Remus reached over to examine the earring. The way he looked at it Harry knew he was remembering. "I'd almost forgotten about these."

"What is so great about an earring?"

"Oh plenty…this little stunt nearly got us kicked out of school!"

"Will you tell me?" Remus began his story…

Three boys stood by the window at night in Gryffindor tower. "Come on Moony!"

"Are you crazy, we'll get caught you stupid git."

"No we won't…not unless someone tells and who is going to see us?"

"What if Wormtail wakes up and sees us gone without him, you know how he gets. He can be the biggest cry baby sometimes." The two boys stared at him with their mouths hanging open.

"Prongs, did I just hear Remus Lupin say something bad about someone and Peter of all people?"

"I believe you did Padfoot, I guess hell is awfully cold right now having been frozen over and all. Should we take him to Madam Pomfrey instead? He may have a fever or something."

"Would you two prats shut up?" Padfoot raised an eyebrow and shook his head.

"Nope, I don't think we can."

"I'll have to concur with Padfoot on this one Moony…"

"If I go will you leave me alone already?"

"Sure."

"Certainly." They opened their window and mounted their brooms. Flying in the moonlight to Hogsmeade. They touched down outside the Hogs Head, shrunk their brooms and placed them into their pockets. The pub was dark and dirty, interesting crowd they thought as they carefully made their way to a table in the corner.

"What can I get you boys tonight?" A beautiful waitress with blonde hair asked.

"I would appreciate it if you would not refer to us as boys."

"No sweat kid, the bartender is going to serve you anyways. So what will it be?"

"Round of Firewhiskeys."

"Sure thing, coming up." She left the boys to drool as they watched her walk away.

"Bloody hell that is one girl I'd like to show my wand to!"

"Oh Merlin, can't you come up with a better expression than that Padfoot?"

"What, it works on the all the girls. Trust me I know." The other two rolled their eyes at him.

"So are you going to ask her out Moony?"

"Who?"

"Please, you know who…that Ravenclaw that has been itching to get you in the Astronomy Tower for weeks now."

"No she hasn't!"

"Moony, you're killing me here! You're hurting this trio's reputations."

"Reputations?"

"Yes! Tell him Prongs."

"Moony, we are players…charming, good looking, and intelligent…and incredible in the sack! You my friend need to find a new one and stop hurting our reputations. Remember all for one and one for all. If you don't have anymore game left, they might think we don't either and I for one can not handle that. She wasn't right for you."

"I know! You two have told me that enough but man…she was amazing. I thought she might be the one."

"Time will heal Moony, just have to try again…and I might suggest the little hottie in Ravenclaw."

"Lora Lynn…" Padfoot said in a dreamy voice. "May we thank Merlin and all the Gods in heaven for that body!" The waitress came back with their drinks.

"Here you go boys! Enjoy." The three slammed back their drinks and ordered another round. They talked about girls and Quidditch and girls.

"So what about you prongs?"

"What about me?"

"How can the prince charming of Hogwarts not get the girl?" He ruffled his already messy hair.

Sighing, "I have no idea…I have tried everything but that spitfire of a girl won't even give me the time of day!"

"Have you tried poems?" he nodded yes.

"Flowers?" he nodded yes again. As the list went on they were running out of suggestions. Padfoot got an idea as the waitress returned with their tenth round of drinks. "Can I ask you something Rose?"

"Sure"

"There's this girl that my friend here is completely in love with but she won't go out with him. He's tried everything, flowers, cards, poems, nothing works! He really likes her and we know from her friends that she likes him, so why does she keep saying no?"

"Hmm…have you tried just talking to her without all the nonsense you normally use to get a girl to the tower?"

"Some, but she is so stubborn!"

"Try subtle…old fashioned chivalry works the best. Open doors for her, carry her books, say hi occasionally in the hall. Try not to let her see you looking at her, make her miss you. Talk to her, really talk to her and make sure to listen, we ladies like that. Then give her space maybe a day or so before you do it again. Make a point to go out your way to say hello…you play Quidditch?"

"Chaser."

"Invite her to a game…"

"Why, she already comes?"

"Yes but this way she feels special, like you want to make sure she is there, no one else. Make sure you are nice to her friends."

"I see, let her know I am interested but let her choose the timing. Remember everything my grandfather taught me."

"Exactly! Now I have to get back to work…you boys holding up ok? I hate to see you try to fly smashed." Walking away she stopped and turned. "One more thing…always treat a lady like it's your first date. No matter how long you are with her."

As the boys continued drinking they thought about that statement. "Makes since."

"How do you figure Moony?"

"Simple, when we first take out a girl we try our hardest to please them, we listen, talk, we are seductive and romantic. We are perfect gentlemen. Tending to their every need and being spontaneous. After awhile we tend to go into a routine, not really listening…"

"I see where you're going…good advice!" They continued talking and laughing more and more as the rounds kept coming.

"Sorry boys, closing time!"

"No! Cum'n zust un mure drinkt"

"I think you all have had enough." They paid the bill and staggered out the door.

Laughing loudly and holding onto one another for support. "How are we gettin' back?"

"vat do you mean?"

"School, how we get back?" hiccup.

"How'd we come?"

"I think it's this way…walk." They turned left and began to walk; sort of. They laughed and joked as they wandered the streets of Hogsmeade, until a sign caught their eye.

"NO! Prongs…NO!"

"Yes!"

"No!"

Crossing his arm and standing with an air of confidence he stared his friends down. "YES!"

Fifteen minutes later the trio had matching earrings. White gold phoenixes with ruby eyes…walking out the door straight into their Headmaster…

"My dad talked you into that?"

"Most certainly did…still have it, wear it occasionally. Sirius lost his when he was sent away…I thought your dad's was lost in the rummage." He looked sad remembering his friends. "What else is in this trunk?" they continued going through the trunk well into the night hearing stories from Remus and Tonks.

"Hey, look at this." He was holding a picture. "Bloody hell! Neville you have to see this!" Neville came to sit by Harry as both boys sat with their mouths open, eyes wide, and shock written all over their faces.

"Whatcha got their Harry?" Tonks asked leaning over to see the picture closer. "Merlin; never would have thought…"

"What's wrong?"

Harry coming out of the trance answered, "Nothing is wrong, it's just a picture of my mum and Neville's mum showing off their…tattoos!"

"WHAT? Lily never had a tattoo!" Remus took the picture form him. His eyes widened in shock. "Apparently Prongs forgot to mention a few things!" Lily was showing off a tattoo on the front of her lower inside hip, a very provocative place. It was a stag encircled by woven lilies in the shape of a heart. Neville's mum had one on her lower back, butterflies flying out of a heart; Frank was written across in a cursive script. "This must have been right after they got engaged. The rings are showing. They always did have their wild streaks…when they did watch out, anything was possible. Your dads loved that about them." The boys sat staring at the picture watching their mother's giggle and acting carefree. They seemed so happy.

One by one they fell asleep as Harry, Neville, and Remus continued looking and telling stories. Dawn was approaching when they called it quits. Neville returned to his room borrowing the picture of their mums promising Harry nothing would happen to it. Remus picked up Tonks and carried her across the hall as Harry ran ahead to open the door for him. "Night, thanks for letting me go through the trunk, brought back a lot of good times." He smiled with a touch of sadness longing for his friends. Harry returned to see Hermione curled up in his bed.

"I thought you were asleep?"

"I heard you leave…" she said sleepily.

"Go back to sleep Mi…I'm just going to get blankets for everyone. She nodded placing her hands beneath her chin and dozing back off as he kissed the top of her head.

Being busy with workouts and exercising the days passed quickly by. The teens were almost unbeatable now dueling up to eight Order members at a time. As the last day of training approached the group was shocked when they were challenged. They had just finished their weight training when Isabella and Dumbledore followed all the other members into the room. "I hear you six are unbeatable." They smiled feeling confident in the skills they had acquired through their hard work. "I would like to see that for myself." Everyone looked nervous due to the smile on Isabella's and Albus's face. "We challenge you to a duel." Everyone present gasped in surprise. The teens looked a bit scared except one, Ginny.

"Ok…let's see what you got old man!"

The group's eyes went wide at her cavalier attitude as the adults chuckled at her calm manner and spunky attitude having never heard anyone address Albus Dumbledore as such. "You're on Miss Weasley."

The younger participants slowly entered the maze as Isabella and Dumbledore went in the opposite direction. Arthur cast a spectator shield to block stray curses.

A buzzer rang signaling everyone was ready. It started very slowly, everyone moving through the maze carefully. The teens deciding to split into pairs in hopes of surrounding their more experienced opponents; watching each others backs.

Ron was the first to spot Dumbledore, "Stupify!" it bounced off his shield as Neville also began throwing hexes. His specialty being one of the Egyptian curses Bill had taught him. "Entombe" the hex was deflected as Isabella came around the corner. Flashes of light lead the other four to the area where Dumbledore and Isabella could be found. Upon approach Ginny pushed Neville out of the way of a curse from Dumbledore. Ginny got a bat bogey hex off striking Dumbledore in the shoulder. Isabella retaliated by sending a body binding curse. Luna worked defense as Ginny worked offense along side Neville. Ron noticing this tactic went to defensive as well in order to help Neville further along. No one had seen Harry and Hermione enter the duel yet. They were around the corner working out a strategy. Seeing their four friends tiring they made their move; they began apparating directly behind Isabella and Dumbledore throwing a hex and then immediately disapparating. They had done this so fast they were on their fourth or fifth attempt before anyone noticed. Partly due to their apparitions being perfectly silent. Hermione had finally got a freezing charm on Isabella. "Now Harry!" Seeing their moment they cast an anti – apparition ward around them. Dumbledore quickly threw the counter towards Bella; both attempting to disapparate as suspected. Hermione had come up with the idea that they would gather the teens in and then try to switch their location quickly taking the offensive position. He smiled, she was always right. Dumbledore and Bella soon began throwing everything they had with in limits having become aware of how good the group of students were. Ginny managed to bind Dumbledore once but he quickly broke it. Neville had managed to transfigure Bella into a rock but nothing seemed to hold them. Harry and Hermione figured they were using the elements to change things back. They were tired and bruised from the diving and rolling out of the way of curses. They had been dueling for nearly two hours. Suddenly a thought struck Harry. "Serpensortia!" he whispered under his breath. He began controlling the snake. It advanced on Dumbledore with speed causing him to fall down. Harry directed the snake towards Bella who remained calm as she conjured a glass cage around it. Ron thinking quickly broke the glass as Neville and Luna tried to take advantage of the fact Dumbledore was down conjuring ropes to bind him. Bella tried several things fire, ice, water, slicing hex, and a banishing charm. This only seemed to anger it, she then did something no one had seen before and raised her self as if floating into the air. This move kept her away from the snake's reach but in fighting position. She quickly undid Dumbledore's ropes as Neville and Luna used her idea placing him in a glass cage with the jelly leg jinx. The crowd laughed as Dumbledore walked around the cage looking like he was doing a dance; very badly. Hermione realizing that Bella was using air to stay afloat quickly threw a spell that blocked air from entering the arena. Bella fell and twisted her foot but amused that her student had figured it out. The duel raised another notch with that stunt as Dumbledore broke the cage and the countered the jinx. Bella would throw fire and the teens would throw water, Harry tried rocks, Dumbledore would smash them with air. Dumbledore transfigured the barriers with in the maze to move and come to life. Luna and Ginny used the reductor curse to blast them away. Ginny realized the professors were trying to force them into harder and more difficult spells to tire them out faster. With this she went back to the basics yelling for the others to do the same. Harry through up a barrier that held a silencing charm giving them a moment to regroup. "What do you suggest?"

"I got it…when is it hardest to concentrate?"

"Who knows?" Ron said exhausted and sweating.

"Laughter, who can concentrate when laughing to death and it wears you out,"

Ginny smiled, "and what is the easiest spell for any of us to cast?"
Laughing as they caught on. The spectators saw this and began to whisper their different theories as to what this particular group of teens might have come up with after all their experiences. Bella and Dumbledore finally blasted the shield Harry had put up as the teens instantly threw their plan into action. Luna cried out, "NOW!" Instantly Ron and Harry conjured ropes around Bella as Hermione and Neville cast them around Dumbledore. Not wanting to waste a second Ginny and Luna cast their spells. "RICTUSEMPRA!" The opponents immediately quit struggling against their ropes and began to laugh as their body squirmed from the feather sensation. Combining their efforts Neville, Ron, Harry, and Hermione quickly added to their tickling spells. Dumbledore and Bella had tears of laughter falling down their faces, feeling as if they were about to wet their pants. They tried to concentrate but that feather feeling kept going over their neck and stomach causing them to squirm and laugh. It was Ginny who asked Bella, "Do you yield?" Bella couldn't answer because she was laughing so hard. "Do you yield?" Finally she nodded yes. Luna told Dumbledore, "Say Uncle!" "Say Uncle!" After a couple of minutes the crowd heard him manage a weak "Uncle!"

The children helped the professors up after ending all their spells. "Amazing! I have never seen Albus beat at a duel, especially not with a tickling charm. Outstanding; simply outstanding." She was still laughing and trying to catch her breath.

"Yes I do believe that is my first. May I inquire as to what lead you to use that spell? Quite ingenious if I might say so."

Harry removed the shield from the audience who were still in shock from seeing a mage and the Albus Dumbledore taken down by six students. Hermione chose to answer seeing their parents and friends with questioning looks as well. "Sir, it seemed to us your plan was to wear us out early by forcing us to use more complicated spells against a more experienced opponent. More complicated spells would use up more magic causing the spells no matter how complex to become weaker and weaker allowing you to counter quicker."

"Very good Miss Granger. Might I add that was quick thinking to block air from entering the room. Most would not have thought to do something as simple."

"Thank you."

"That explains you reverting back to simpler spells but why the tickling charm?"

Ginny spoke up, "With the power and experience you have we needed something to break your concentration allowing us time in order to make sure our spells were stronger, sir."

Luna finished her thoughts. "The hardest thing to try and concentrate through is laughter. So Ginny suggested the tickling charm which also causes you to tire out mentally and physically."

"Well done..."

"Amazingly brilliant," Moony said giving Harry a high five along with the others.

"Who would guess such simplicity would prevail over Dumbledore!" Tonks was still laughing. The room began to clear and promises were made that the world would not hear the Headmaster of Hogwarts was beat by a tickling charm. Mrs. Weasley and Mrs. Granger decide a celebration was in order for today's events and went off to plan their evening. Hermione had an idea and sought out Tonks. The others headed to the showers.