Harry Potter's Secret Weapon

**OO**

A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.

New Pureblood Graftees - NPGs - formerly muggleborn or half-blood magical people that are getting a new lease on life after being drafted into a new family. A cleansing and renewal of the gene pool.

**OO**

Chapter 31 Attack in the Dark

A/N: If you skipped, welcome back.

A/N: I have read that 'baguette magique' is the correct translation for magic wand. We are using the word baton, because when written, I envision students using delicious crisp-on-the-outside bread to perform magic. Ron would have his eaten before the end of the first class. And the school of magic is not named beautiful bread.

**OO**

Let's go back a day…

Thursday, August 18th, Chateau Lumiere

Harry and his family were spending time together with the Delacours in France. After their scare with Aunt Calladora, they were staying with her and having at least breakfast with her every day but this past week had been magnificent!

Just as the rest of them were getting ready to go to Beauxbatons, Luna had stopped in for her weekly lesson with Calladora. Lessons that she chirped about back at Blackmoor Hall, and Calladora clearly had another 'great-niece'. They had plans to play some kind of scrying game, looking for treats in the house, and Luna was going to enjoy it very much.

Penny had apparently given it up as a bad job, and Tonks was coming only occasionally.

Hermione and Neville were both staying at the Delacour palatial estate, giving Sirius, Darlene and Harry time alone with just Calladora. Harry had Earnest join them there as Baxter was back to ignoring Harry again.

Luna was invited to go with them to the Open House, but had declined. She said something about getting enough ballet at Hogwarts, but that couldn't be right. Oh well, Harry needed to wash his ears better.

Farewells were said to Luna and Calladora, and they got ready to go.

The portkey with their guests had arrived. They greeted Teddy Nott, who had come with Adrian to see him settled. The boys asked permission to ride with the carriage driver. Adrian had already had lessons, but clearly, wanted to learn more. The steely-eyed Delacour security also asked to ride outside, but they took the back.

The coach ride was beautiful, and they got to fly as Hermione wasn't there, –not because of acrophobia, but because of the trauma of her last ride in this carriage. There was a small pasture set aside for the mounts, and Earnest took care of everything.

First up was a tour of the school and a chance to meet professors. The security team was clearly for Harry and Hermione, as she had her own escort, Harry was told. But where was she?

Then it was a choice of various artistic performances of several different types. Darlene adored ballet, and wanted to introduce Harry to it, as these were going to be little vignettes. Well, she went to school here, so magical ballet it was.

They took their seats in one of the smaller auditoriums. After fifteen minutes, it was clear that none of the boys were interested, though for Darlene's sake, Harry endured.

Finally! It was over! Afterwards, there were snacks, and mingling with students, prospective students, and prefects. Adrian stuck with Teddy, who was truly enjoying the visit; the rising 4th year would be spending the whole long weekend here getting familiar with the school.

The Delacours were in the cafeteria, so Hermione and Neville finally joined their group. Hermione's eyes were shining.

Harry teased, "Uh oh, someone found the library. Are we ever leaving?" But greeted her with a warm hug.

The family endured yet more fanboy photos from Colin Creevy when he saw them. They did make sure to get several family pics. Teddy was actually very patient with the lad, and Harry thought that the promise of a shop in Moonsgate upon graduation would be a dream come true for the Nott boy. Especially if they had quarters above the shop.

Much better than the nightmare of a dark mark and darker service.

Adrian made sure that Teddy had everything he needed, as did Sirius and Darlene. Then they went back to the coach.

"Alright if I allow the boy to fly us part of the way?" Calladora's driver asked.

"Fine by me." Sirius looked for dissent in his family, but Harry knew the boy had soaked up lessons, just as much as Harry had. Only Harry preferred riding a beasty. The security team settled in the back. Comfy seats with a full view and somehow protected from the elements. Great magic.

House Black was seated into the coach with much bowing and scraping of the 'substitute' driver.

"You just want to apologize for the foosball thing. I will get better." Harry stated, getting in with faux pomposity.

**OO**

"So, what did you think of my school, mon petit chou?" Darlene asked once they were going.

Harry tilted his head, glad that he didn't have an audience other than his parents.

"I think it suits you perfectly. But me? It would feel like a costume dress up every day."

"But the culture, the artistry, the dance?!" Darlene tried to defend, but Padfoot just laughed.

"When's the last time you saw someone dress for dinner at Hogwarts? Maybe some of the seventh year couples? Sitting to the side? Some of the stuffier heirs?"

Harry nodded, that sounded about right.

"But Harry, you've never complained about dressing up for dinner! We could have casual dinners sometimes." Darlene offered.

"Why? I like dressing up for dinner, and dancing. I like having everyone there. Maybe one day, I'll wake up and it will be my own routine, but for right now, just because it feels like a costume ball doesn't make it bad. You know?"

"I saw you talking to a lot of people today. Good job. And you took a brochure. So what classes are you going to petition for, once we have a new headmaster? Or should I say new Headmaster and Headmistress."

"Well, you can bet I'm asking for enchanting, and healing. What is the deal? We have DADA for seven years available, but not one class on Episkey?"

Darlene laughed at that. "My first two years of school for healing were in sixth and seventh year."

"Oh, so I need to be fluent in two years. Bon." Harry teased.

They were getting closer to Calladora's house, and the coach was getting ready to land.

"Thank you for doing this for Nott. Teddy. It was great of you." Harry squeezed both of their hands.

"You're welcome. But you do know that with all of us being there, and talking about the shop and such, that Colin thinks that you are his patron."

"What? Me? No! I never…" Harry objected.

Darlene hid her face in her hands.

Sirius continued the teasing, "Well, at least he'll have Sofia to talk with."

Harry tried to open the door, but the safety feature that kept it shut when it was still in the air worked very well.

Darlene shifted to the seat on his side, ignoring her husband, "So. Are you interested in some of the beginning Healer texts? You have the power. That was one of the main reasons to delay until sixth year. To make sure that the student was ready for that level of magic."

Harry smiled, then frowned, "Very much, but, please. Can I have them in English?"

Darlene put her arm around his shoulders and squeezed. Even if she had to pay Winky to translate them, she would find him the English versions.

Adrian returned to Blackmoor with thanks for the day; his eyes were glowing just as brightly, and it was clear that the coachmen were impressed with the lad's ability.

**OO**

Winky had come with them to Paris, and Harry would get up early to translate. They were so close. So close to being done with the potions themselves.

Then, they just had to figure out the puzzle.

Harry missed Moony and Clarice and Percy and Penny. The couples would have been welcome for the holiday, but they had declined. They were staying to work. Percy as Steward; Penny on her potions, Remus and Clarice on the Pranking Parlor.

Fred and George were busy creating pranks but also spent time manning the carts in Diagon and Hogsmeade along with the hired help. Muggleborns, too well known to be NPGs, still needed work after all. Not that they weren't being put to work by the hired managers of the hospital or Moonsgate village building crews.

**OO**

Friday, August 19th, MoM, London

Director Bones slammed the door on the way into Fudge's office.

"Minister Fudge! How could you! You've seen the signs! The kidnapping attempts! Riddle is not as dead as we would like him to be. And now this? You've prevented the guards from returning to guard Azkaban? You fired aurors, when our numbers are down! I have been requesting more people. The dementors are gone. That has been verified as you know. You heard the reports in the meeting."

"My dear girl…"

"If you start trying to channel Dumbledore right now, just don't. Any title will do fine. Director comes to mind."

Fudge ignored the comment, "There is no need for guards! There are wards to keep the prisoners in…"

"Wards that can be overcome with the right keys. Keys that we have in the Department of Mysteries. The Department of Magical Law Enforcement. An imperius curse could destroy us here, and the enemies are not afraid to use it!"

"Well then! You best make sure that such things are locked up. That is your job."

Amelia walked around the minister, and pulled her wand. "I was just going to do a severing charm on you, Cornelius. You know, to cut your strings to whoever is pulling them. You aren't listening to me!"

"I am listening, and you are trying to blame me for not doing your job and mine!"

Amelia was firm. "I am going to put an advertisement in the paper for new guards. Maybe I can get some of the old ones back. I don't care how you pay them, you sacked them."

"There is no reason to waste resources on this!" Fudge shouted.

Amelia stormed from his office. She wanted to put her private security in place, but both she and Sirius were convinced they would be needed for battle. It was too soon to reveal the numbers of such a force!

She headed back into her office; writing a notice she knew was too little too late. She could feel it deep, deep down. And she needed her security force here, ready to respond at a moment's notice. Not in Azkaban, where they would have to boat for hours before being available.

**OO**

Saturday, August 20th, Blackmoor Hall

Blaise wouldn't be hurt much by the news of the loss of his mother, but relieved. He'd have the staff clean the house, and asked Lord Black's advice on curse-breaking, but the lad was a welcome guest for the rest of the summer.

He declined the offer of patronage, but did say that he was willing to hire those of ability if Lord Black ever had anyone looking for a job later on. He even put a deposit down for a shop. He wouldn't need it right away, but he had no desire to live in the family home. After it was cleansed, he might rent it out to a celebrity. There were people who were fascinated by serial killers after all. Creepy. But he had lived there from time to time when he was younger and had no desire to live there ever again.

For himself, Blaise Zabini joined the growing list of Slytherins becoming friends of the Potter and Black family. And Graham Bulstrode offered to be the boy's guardian as he and Millie were friends. A potion maker with strong abilities, he was soon going to lessons with Potter that would continue into the school year.

Blaise was not alone.

**OO**

Saturday, August 20th, Batons d' Orléans (Wands by Orléans)

Dan and Emma entered the shop. Dan had started with a Merlin index just a few clicks south of 'wizard' when they started the potion experiment. Both he and Emma had been doing the meditation and other 'magical' exercises that were supposed to raise their numbers as well.

Dan was now, officially, a wizard. He was actually stronger than Marcus Flint or Gregory Goyle!

"I'm sending you to Ollivander's for your wand. You'll be registered as a 'late bloomer' in the Ministry there. You'll have seven years to obtain three OWLs to maintain your wand rights. Being the logical and well run organization that they are, none of those OWLs have to be in a wanded subject." Guierre shared.

"Unless you're a muggleborn." Dan spat.

"Yes, unless that, then you're required to have Charms or Transfiguration. There are a lot of tutors available to you at least."

"Is there a limit to how much magic I can gain?" Dan asked in awe.

"Yes. Though I doubt that you can go much more than double your original numbers. Do be careful! I'm sure that Darlene has shared some of the dangers of overdoing."

"Yes, yes. We'll be careful." Dan reassured them.

"Once you have plateaued we can speak of custom wands. Dan? Emma? I have a message for Harry here, but I want you to hear it. I am begging him not to share this discovery with Sofia. Not unless her heart changes." Guierre shared.

Dan looked at the man. Harry hadn't said anything about the potion to anyone else. Neither had Dan. The Duke was clearly guessing that Harry was involved with more than just meditation and magical strengthening solutions like Penny had made for Harry in the past. Not the actual magical index changing potion from the book.

"What? Why? I would think that you would want her to have magic?" Emma was flummoxed as to his answer.

"Because I don't want to have to raise my wand to the next dark lord, or in this case, dark lady rising. And I will always fight the dark." The duke looked Emma directly in the eye as he spoke. Though she could tell that it killed him to say that.

Shocked and thoughtful, the dynamic duo left the shop. Dan leaned over to his wife. "Um, Em? You know that sometimes I forget to say things. Well, Harry had been pretty clear about this. We didn't tell him the details of how we raised our numbers, but the Duke isn't stupid. He'll guess. Harry has no intention of sharing this potion with anyone."

Dan kept quiet for a few steps.

"What do we tell work?" Dan asked in a low voice.

Emma thought rapidly, "Radioactive spiders come to mind. Or we could use Guierre's excuse. Late bloomers living in a magical house."

"I guess we don't have to explain how, but just let them know what is going on, I suppose. Harry is not giving out that formula. The government would use it to make super soldiers or worse. He's right to keep it under wraps."

"Doesn't that make us hypocrites using it?"

"Why? We're guinea pigs. For all we know, we could start sprouting an extra arm." Dan opined.

"Or suddenly sporting facial hair. Yeah. Not a good look for me."

The couple kissed, just another couple in love in Paris. They'd keep this news to themselves for now.

Emma knew she'd have to wait before she too could be treated with the potion, but she was excited about the possibilities. Magic!

When this came out, there were going to be repercussions. They would try to keep this under wraps as much as possible. At least it was very, very expensive to brew. That would help.

**OO**

Saturday, August 20th, Blackmoor Hall

Sirius had already perfected the lifts at the hospital, and now wanted to make a gift for his lovely bride while she visited her parents.

He really had no desire to linger there right now; witches talking baby things had François escaping to his shop as well. Harry was at the Delacours for his party.

The glass enclosure was lovely, and had at first just Karr and Jam watching him, but soon everyone who worked at Some Enchanted Evening, The Pranking Parlor and all elves had to watch the marvel and majesty of the conjurer at work.

He started with four glass doors; eight windows, and a lot of odd hardware bits.

When he was done, Sirius had a glass lift that moved from level to level of the house.

"We'll put a separate floo in downstairs. Frank and Alice won't have to climb stairs. My wife, who is pregnant, won't have to climb stairs." He explained to his audience.

When he was done, the wizard was exhausted, but everyone watching him was very, very impressed. They clapped and cheered. The glass lift was ornate, and covered with gold filigree that matched the style of the house.

Kevin not only had taken very good notes, but one of the elves had omnioculars recording the whole process for him.

Baxter unfairly blamed Harry for getting Calladora sick in the first place. And Sirius for inviting her to a party with young children. They were all fine, in fact, some of the mothers that didn't innoculate for dragon pox were flooing the afflicted children so that their children could be exposed!

Baxter was forced to come, and say something nice to Sirius. The elderly elf had been downright rude to the wizards of the House. He hemmed and hawed for a moment. "Mistress Calladora could use one too!"

And popped away. Winky, greening, took out a spoon. "I's be right back."

**OO**

Saturday, August 20th, Delacour home

The entire Dementor team with their significant others had been invited to a celebration party. Both Marius and Byron were invited, much to Harry's surprise. They declined, but that was because of the outdoor sunny venue, not the company. Byron insisted Marius go for a time.

Minister Delacour was delighted with the progress of the worldwide dementor cleanup. He knew that without the support of the French aurors who had risked themselves at Notre Dame, this team could never have been assembled.

Jean-Claude had a special surprise for Harry. Nicolas and Perenelle Flamel were in a side room. They didn't like the noise of the big party and wanted to talk to Harry alone.

M Flamel began, "We have several things to discuss with you, Duke Harry. But the first is most urgent. Your brilliant lady is in great danger. We heard of the new law proposed in England. Most people forget that we have citizenship in many countries, but since we have served several times in Hogwarts as Headmaster and Headmistress respectively, and taught many times, we are considered British subjects.

"We want to be Miss Granger's magical guardians ahead of this vote." Nicolas stated.

Harry's relief was palpable, "Thank you! Thank you! That helps so much. And gives me an idea. How would you both like to serve at Hogwarts again as co-Headmaster/Headmistress without leaving your home?"

"How do you plan to do that, young man?" Perenelle smelled the prank before he finished speaking. She had hundreds of years of experience with students.

Harry explained how his godfather was a brilliant enchanter, and put on his disguise bracelet that he wore in public in France to avoid fangirls. And boys.

"You have another couple in mind? But want to keep their identities secret? Likely muggleborns, considering the atmosphere of Britain right now?" Nicolas guessed. Perenelle nodded.

"Yes sir, ma'am. They are brilliant; smart and perfect for the role. They'll bring technomancy and enchanting back to Hogwarts; art, music. Oh, and electricity. They will definitely improve Muggle Studies. They have already been secretly helping there." Harry finished with a conspiratorial grin.

Perenelle clapped, "You have our permission to use our names and images young man. I don't want to clean up after Albus yet again."

"Such a waste of talent. He, like Gellert, could have expanded magic. Now? What is his legacy?" Nicolas lamented.

"He'll claim it to be me, but my success is due to the ladies in my life; my betrothed, my godmother and my friend Winky. Who happens to be the smartest House-elf I have met."

The two nodded. "We would like to keep in touch with you, Your Grace. What about yourself? What do you want to study?" Nicolas asked curiously.

Harry put his hand on his heart without thinking. "Sir, Magic is calling me to healing. I have learned so much this summer. Translated a potion to cure lycanthropy. I'm searching for a device that is supposed to help anyone. We just need to find the coordinates."

Perenelle held her hands as if saying a prayer and clapped her fingertips, "Your oaths as a healer will not lead you wrong young man. Your power will be used for good. Bless you. Oh, and please know that we have a little gift for your lady. She adapted my thrown-together runes so well."

Nicolas patted his wife's arm, "Perenelle is much too modest. It was wartime, and monsters were summoned from beyond. She did a wonderful job of keeping others safe until someone could figure out how to get rid of them. Your grandfather, Charlus Potter, tried, and sacrificed much of his magic in the process. He had once been almost as powerful as you."

Harry turned concerned, "Are you…I don't know how to ask. Are you okay? I didn't know how long you would live without your stone. It was my fault it was destroyed." Harry gave them a brief summary of his first year at Hogwarts.

Nicolas laughed, "We've known for years that Albus was going a little off. The stone that he was given was a failed one. Oh, it had the right ingredients, and he likely thought it was real. But I didn't trust him to return it."

The three of them laughed at that. They had to leave soon. Hermione was brought in for just a minute to receive a very nice pearl necklace.

"For your wedding my dear. I wore it, and have taken care of it. Consider it the 'something old.'

Hermione clearly wanted to ask a million questions, but Harry bowed, which was her cue. So she curtseyed instead, and they returned to the party.

The final assault on Azkaban had just finished earlier that week. The assault had been exhausting but now, their task was truly, truly nearly done.

Scryers had put a minor group of the demons in the dark forest of Albania. A place of dark magic, darker rituals, and horrors. It was apparently where Tom Riddle's wraith had fled after his attack on the Potters all those years ago.

The team had a runic circle in place, hidden and obscured from detection. After the initial near disaster of Azkaban, it was discovered that Umbridge was ferrying the little groups of ones and twos there. Let her do their work and 'gather them safely up.'

The area would be monitored, and when the time came, they would wipe out the last of them.

In the meantime, it was time to rejoice that no one had been seriously hurt, other than a bit of magical exhaustion and the occasional skinned extremity, caused when dodging the beasties. Harry was going to be awarded the Jean Lafitte Medal of Honor at the Yule celebration. Something that he tried to decline. It just wasn't necessary.

The team disagreed. Harry had been awarded several countries' top awards and had earned every single one for his unique gift. The threat lingered that someone would take over where Grindelwald had been stopped. That someone would use these creatures to help rule the world.

Umbridge had less than twenty five individuals worldwide if their cloak count had been remotely accurate. That was not enough to rule the world.

The aurors all toasted one another, and had a group picture taken with Harry in his battle robes, in the middle; with Moody on one side of the mage, and Percy on the other. Tonks, pretending to do 'bunny ears' for a moment, was directly behind him, beside Shack. Surrounded by the rest, in their uniforms, in rows behind him.

For his part, Harry would never really believe that they were completely gone. It was time to open his grandfather's box of notes and see what ritual he had tried to use to banish them.

He hadn't thought of it before now, not really, but all of a sudden, it felt more…urgent.

**OO**

Saturday, August 20th, Azkaban

The locks dropped off the cells of all Death Eaters with nary a sound.

Narcissa was there to warmly greet her sister.

"Your magic? What happened? You're a mu…muted." Bellatrix was confused. Her sister's magic had always burned brightly. Now it was a sputtering candle in the wind.

"I'll tell you all about it, but we must keep your escape quiet. We have an idea."

A group of muggles were with them, and Narcissa had the polyjuice potion. Soon, a Bella look-a-like was in the cell.

"I'll need to hide behind strong wards." Bella warned.

Soon, the rest were similarly replaced. It was Barty Jr's idea.

"Yes. Do you remember how we used to play as children?" Narcissa asked.

"Of course I do! Oh! Grimmauld Place." Bella gushed as they walked towards the water.

"Moody is there, still as paranoid as ever."

"Do you think he would go outside to investigate a disturbance?" Bella asked, eyes bulging.

Narcissa helped get her sister settled on the boat, blanket and warm drinks ready to hand. "I do believe so."

"But the prisoners! Polyjuice doesn't last very long. How will we get away…"

Green lights in the distance flashed, lighting Bella's delighted face.

Her childish energetic clapping was eerie to everyone else on the boat. They waited for everyone to be back before silently and cautiously pulling away.

None of the living prisoners had seen or heard anything inside the prison. And reports, once the murders were discovered, would vary greatly.

**OO**

Sunday, August 21st, unknown location

Remus woke up, the back of his head bloody. It was nearly moonrise; the sunlight fading fast. He should be…somewhere.

Where was he? This was Grimmauld Place's back garden. The smells, familiar but not. Their last 'war planning' meeting before Moody was going to Hogwarts. Right? Remus had insisted on accompanying Mad-eye to Hogwarts. Blast. Was his head only half bashed in? It felt completely done in. And he was bruised all over.

The attackers must have thought that he was dead, or on the way to it, and left him. Where was Mad-eye? He would never abandon a compatriot who had been attacked!

Woozy, alone, and shaken, Remus called for Moody's elf. He didn't want to apparate with a head wound, but had healing potions at his run-down shack. That wasn't too far. And right now? On a full moon? He really didn't want his mate to smell blood. Mate? Did he just think that? Oh, Moony, we're in for it now, I think I have a girl in my life. Who would want me? Want us?

Where was Mad-eye!?

Remus would try to track him down. AFTER a bit of healing, thank you, or he would be useless to everyone. He swore and asked to be popped home by Moody's elf.

The elf complied. What was this place? This wasn't his shack. It was grand, old, needing a bit of work. An owl came just as he was trying to figure out what happened.

'Lupin, you survived if you're reading this. Sorry for taking off, needed to leave just then if I was to have any chance of catching them. No sign. Thanks for all of the great notes. I'll owl you if I have any questions. Heading to Hogwarts now to be inside better wards.

'Watch your back.

'Moody'

Lupin growled. Loudly, scaring the elf who had popped in with a compress and disappeared with a pop, leaving the cold water basin and clean wet cloths scattered on the priceless Turkish carpet.

When had he bought, and how had he bought an expensive carpet?

What was going on? This situation was mad! Mad-eye was Order - they never left anyone behind; dead or alive. They knew where inferi came from and would never allow a brother-in-arms to suffer such a fate.

Something was terribly off here, if he could only think!

In addition to the bizarre situation, here was this note.

There were at least two things that were very odd about the letter without having to look beyond the first glance. And Remus had done some research after being asked about Hermione's odd letter.

Hermione? Who was that? Nevermind.

One, the hand wasn't Moody's. A dictaquill. Very similar to the one used for that girl's letter. The writing was too perfect to be penned by hand. The other odd thing was the smell.

Moody never handled it himself. Remus tried to calm his inner Moony who was growling at the scent. Familiar. Someone he had faced long ago. Enemy. Who to tell?

Putting quill to parchment himself, Remus wrote a quick letter describing how he had been attacked unexpectedly while walking with Moody from the back alley to the garden. How Moody had just left him! Remus made a copy of the letter he had received. Dumbledore didn't need the original.

As a sign of how badly Moony was hurt, and was suffering from his confused feelings, he acted in a way contrary to what the House had planned. Though, keeping copies of what he sent was now second nature. So he had proof of what Dumbledore was sent. That would prove helpful later.

Lupin, in this moment, felt that Dumbledore would surely have resources to look into this very odd situation, and make sure that Moody really did arrive at Hogwarts and was safe and sound there.

The headmaster sent a quick note back. He reassured the werewolf that indeed, Alastor had arrived with all of Remus' lecture notes and all was well. That Remus was a cherished colleague. So kind of him to be concerned. He even offered for Poppy to pop in to check him as Alastor felt guilty for leaving him to chase their attackers. Oh, and if he wanted to come to Hogwarts to see for himself, could he pick up a few pounds of sherbet lemon for him at Honeydukes on the way in?

Moony growled. He'd nearly been killed and the headmaster wanted him to fetch him his infernal lemon drops? Really? He patted his pockets suddenly. Yep. He somehow knew that he'd had coins, but now they were gone. His left hand was scratched as well. He didn't wear rings, did he?

The full moon was tonight, and Moony was on edge. Edgier than normal. What were these smells around him? Moony himself felt…different.

Something evil this way came. And like all good guard dogs, Moony wanted to attack it, and put it down.

Hard.

He felt it was important to reread the letter so did, hiding it when someone came in.

A woman came into the room carrying potions. Penny? Why did that name fit? He was feeling very odd.

This strange woman felt familiar somehow. Penny ran to the floo. Remus collapsed, adding a bit of red liquid to the water that was already on the carpet.

Healer Marius came in and gasped, "Poor Remus! Out, I need to physically check him." The minute she was gone, so too was his robe. This was terrible! He had heard rumors, but the results, the truth of what happened to this man, was stomach-churning. He was bruised all over! He must have been caught up with others in one of the planned raids. How awful!

And Marius could have prevented it! If only! He wanted to warn Harry, warn the others about what was supposed to happen soon. Tears dripped as he worked, proof of his darker comrades' actions in purple and black contusions.

The Greengrass wizard wanted to tell people what was going on, but the oaths he had taken, no matter how they were forced, wouldn't allow him to say a word. Not against anyone with a Dark Mark. He'd already risked his life once to save the Longbottoms. The only reason that didn't go against his oath was because it was Lucius' own evil scheme; not the Dark Lord's.

He teetered on the sword's edge, and worried constantly about the fall.

And Saint Mungo's might now treat the deputy steward, but not well. Or on a timely basis despite being cured of lycanthropy. The diagnostic spells indicated that he had suffered major trauma. How was this man not dead? More than once Healer Fenwich had accused the Marauders of being hard-headed. This proved it.

**OO**

Clarice came running in after only a few moments. Marius was terrified for a moment as the gentle Scottish lass turned berserker Highland warrior. All that was missing was the tartan kilt and claymore. Or cudgel.

"What did ye do to my MATE, ye Sassanech Vampire Lover!? How could ye hurt him?!"

"I'M A HEALER, woman! Think!" The exasperated healer yelled back, just as a brave but still very frightened Jam popped away and back with a vial of calming potion. He pushed it into the former shewolf's hand.

Clarice drank it down without thinking and calmed almost instantly as the potion took effect. Jam popped away. "I'm sorry, Healer Marius. Of course ye are."

The shouting roused the patient a bit, "Don't let anyone know I'm hurt. Just put me in the basement; it's time." They were both worried about the cure being some kind of cruel prank and planned on locking themselves into their secure new home. But the basement still had one dungeon cell and was near the new infirmary. Moony was right. It was better to stay inside.

"You'll come and check on him? Please, sir. Don't take me shouting personal."

"I don't. You should see vampires who accidentally feast on…never mind. Let's just say I have been through worse. Feel free to mirror me for advice, or if you want me to stop back."

"I have gold…"

"I'll wait until this man is healed completely. You might ask Penny for a few of her specialty brews."

"Yer a friend of the House. Just give me the list, please?"

Clarice asked Jam to pop her and Remus to the one dungeon cell left, just in case. The moon rising was shown on a magic mirror, and Clarice watched in wonder. It was the first time that she knowingly saw the full moon since she was attacked. They felt an urge to become wolves that night, but neither of them turned into a werewolf.

Marius left a note for Penny, instructions for Clarice and Jam, and was planning on coming back and forth for the next few days.

Jam reassured him that Remus and Clarice were locked in the dungeon. He swallowed. That sounded so ominous!

**OO**

Monday, August 22nd, MoM

Lucius Malfoy stormed into Fudge's office, a black stone in his hand.

"My sister-in-law is dead, and my wife wants to know what happened to her."

A brief investigation by a specially picked team of Dawlish and some of the others had him back at the Ministry.

"Looks like Mad-eye lost it, and nothin' to be done about it sir. And he's up at Hogwarts to teach this year. Dumbledore'll protect him. You know it! Even if charges could be brought, nothing would stick!"

Fudge would make arresting noises at the weekly meeting, but Amelia took him aside later.

"Dawlish? You sent Dawlish? Does he even have a wand? He never checked out the wand signatures - I checked! And I'm going out there right now to investigate."

"Investigate what? The bodies are burned and buried! It's done. But don't worry, Amelia. I'm only going to reduce Moody's pension - not eliminate it!"

"I'm owling him right now. He wouldn't do this. He couldn't do this. He'll face a fair trial and…"

"Miss Bones! Stop! Go take a calming potion. This takes care of the threat you were worried about. You should be happy that he solved a problem like this for you, and saved Ministry resources too."

Amelia said not one more word. Once she was at her desk, she tried to call Alastor, but his mirror was in private mode. Fine. She tried to call Sirius, but forgot he was at a family do. Getting out parchment, she gritted her teeth. She had gotten used to instant communication, and felt like she was back to the dark ages. She didn't like it one bit.

Moody would never do something like this! And he reported in about the goblins and their poison darts, and how tempted he had been. He'd warned her about this threat, concerned about the parselrunes used. That was begging for a parselmouth like Tom Riddle to waltz in!

She knew that her organization was full of pureblood sympathizers though. How to warn the good ones that there might be madmen out there. And the most dangerous madwoman she'd ever known.

**OO**

Monday, August 22nd, Blackmoor Hall

Checking back on Monday early morning after the full moon, Marius found that Remus was fine. The pair never transformed. But both had felt an urge to turn into their animagus forms for the night.

Marius did the full workup. Remus was better than fine. No sign of lycanthropy. No sign of concussion, and the bruises looked a week old or more rather than fresh. How was this possible?

Healer Greengrass had helped the Dark Lord's werewolves in the past, and found them to be surly, irritable, and a disagreeable lot. But incredibly hardy. Remus still seemed to retain at least some of those attributes. Including a bit of surly from time to time. Of course, with no job skills, no hope for the future, a lack of regular meals, and living like animals in the forest, most werewolves had a very rough life.

Remus, still very tired, thanked Marius for his work and paid him twice what he charged before seeing him to the floo.

Healers weren't allowed to collect life-debts, but Moony would gladly kill any enemy that bothered the healer.

Maybe even two.

Marius gave him a potion that he wanted Lupin to take right away for his concussion. The healer told him to wait until he was in bed before drinking it. It would help the healing process, but he would sleep most of the day.

**OO**

Monday, August 22nd, Blackmoor Hall, getting up and dressed for tea

Clarice held her husband close then finally released him to dress in fresh clothes. He looked on the nightstand, and around. He never took off his wedding ring! He had vague memories of cackling and fighting. Someone had stolen it! Oh! And his money pouch, too!

Good thing he didn't carry his vault key around. That was in Clarice's drawer. He had been poor for so long, it was just too tempting to keep it close to him right now, knowing that there were galleons waiting, wanting to be spent.

His attempts at self control rescued his small savings.

"I was attacked. The details are fuzzy. But they stole my gold. My wedding ring! They thought they'd killed me or that I would soon be dead, and they laughed at me."

Clarice launched herself into his arms, "How could they be so cruel?"

"I don't know. The ring was ordered, and I can order a replacement. I accidentally did play a bit of a trick on them, as I was wearing a prank wand on my belt. They stole that and ignored my real wand in its disillusioned holster. Do you think that I should try to get the DMLE to act?"

Clarice showed him the article in the evening edition of the Prophet, claiming that Alastor had killed all of the remaining Death Eaters in Azkaban.

The haunting sound of laughter replayed in his mind at seeing Bellatrix' picture of her as a young woman; dancing, flirting, laughing. Clearly the darling of the Black family at the time.

"No my love. Not all are dead. This woman! This woman was there, laughing as Narcissa stole my wedding ring. I know it. I know it!"

"I think we need to make a few calls, my love. I've already tried to reach Alastor. Oh dear!"

"I need to make sure that those two can't get into Grimmauld Place!"

**OO**

Monday night Grimmauld Place

Remus called Tonks and Shacklebolt for an emergency meet. They were both busy but made arrangements to come for a 'coffee break'.

Tonks and Shack both scanned. Oh, this wasn't good at all! Two witches, one wizard. And two of the three were supposed to be dead!

Remus had checked the area where he had been attacked. There were smells and tracks of the two suspect witches in the alley behind Grimmauld Place. There was also a faint smell familiar to him - the smell on the letter. Clearly a wizard, but who? The alley had been driven through since the attack, and the findings were few on it.

As for the back garden of the house, there wasn't much. The only thing out there was an old coal bin, behind the stable, and clearly they had tried to reach it. Narcissa stopping as Bellatrix continued on. Neither one could get near it. Why she wanted to go there was a mystery. Evidence suggested she was first warned, then got a sterner warning from the wards. Likely what caused him to come out and investigate in the first place. Good. The wards hadn't been breached.

Remus found the tracks of where he'd crawled into the safety of the back garden, where he'd awakened. Thank goodness Moony had better self-preservation skills than Remus!

Remus poked around and saw nothing, but remembered that the same builder also built Calladora's house. He'd ask her later.

The aurors had to report back, and the witches were clearly not in the house and neither was on the wards. He would need to alert Sirius!

Tonks and Kingsley needed to get back to warn Amelia!

**OO**

Tuesday, August 23rd, Chateaux Lumiere, morning

Clarice and Remus mirror called Sirius to let him know about the attack. And the apparent lies in the newspaper. Big surprise. They had tried without success the night before, and went to bed early. He warned them to watch out for Bellatrix, and make sure her name was crossed off any wards.

Calladora was amused when asked about the coal bin. "Oh yes, coal used to be delivered for the furnace. Delivered by horse-drawn carriage. We turned it into a secret passage. I bet that the young ladies did as well. Sirius was likely obliviated of that knowledge, since he was the heir, and couldn't be taken off the wards. Sirius changed my furnace to be powered by magic years ago. The fireplaces here are more for decoration that can also be used like a warming charm."

Harry smiled at his brilliant godfather. They needed to add that to the enchanting business!

Sirius liked the situation not one bit, and knew the family were safer in France than anywhere else. He didn't remember the coal bin being a secret passage; but then, his mother didn't approve of him playing.

Sirius needed to start calling in some of the favors he was gaining in the 'Mot.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 23rd, Chateau Lumiere

Harry tried to call Moody to let him know about the attack on Remus, but couldn't reach him. Likely didn't want Dumbledore to catch on about the mirror. He'd send an owl. That would make Hedwig happy!

Sirius was worried about his best friend, so Harry and Sirius made a brief trip home to check on Remus.

Neither one had been told that Moody had been with Remus when he was attacked. And Remus planned on telling everyone. But tomorrow. Alastor was fine, busy getting settled in. They'd go check on him, and bring Dumbledore his silly lemon drops. Tomorrow.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 23rd, Paris

Harry and Hermione enjoyed their time in local Paris museums with their friends and families. They had received their supply lists while away from home.

Dress robes were a must! And gave Harry an excuse to take Hermione shopping in Paris with her mother. Harry would never admit to his dormmates that he enjoyed shopping for dresses for his Hermione; he would never hear the end of it.

But she adored dressing up for him just as much as he adored seeing her dressed up. They bought a couple of designer dresses from Rene Monart, just because.

Their real dress robes would be ordered from Queen Vicky's. Hermione and Harry bought coordinating dress outfits for whatever was happening at Hogwarts that no one would tell them about.

Wait! Had he actually asked yet?

"Well, I can't go with just anyone! I need, you know. The best. If you want to go with me, that is. I understand if you don't…." Harry was reverting back to his insecure self, seeming to forget their betrothal.

Hermione put a single finger to Harry's lips.

"I would love to attend whatever this is, Harry." Hermione smiled shyly, removing her finger that he had just kissed.

Harry still wondered what it was though. Not even BloodRage would accept a bribe to tell him!

They would use the same outfits for Penny and Percy's wedding. Molly was fighting it, but Lord Black, as host, put his foot down.

The bride was of House Black and the wedding would be held at Blackmoor Hall. Inside the ballroom. Inside. Not in the garden of the Burrow in Winter. Thank you very much. The couple had been given the option of having it in Moonsgate Keep, as Hamptworth Lodge was going to be known after a thorough magical facelift and having many additions made to the place.

They had declined. With the family able to earn quite a bit of money on a Yule event, they would rather just have an earlier and quieter wedding at Blackmoor.

Apparently, the Hogwarts event had been planned on Christmas at first, but it was moved to the weekend before the Yule holiday.

Appoline smirked about it, and Hermione wondered just how much influence she had applied for that date change. The students were still in the dark about what was happening at Hogwarts this year. Despite Fleur being one of the ones picked to attend from Beauxbatons.

The Delacours also knew how to keep a secret.

Harry hoped that Remus and Moody were doing okay. Remus had given Moody all of his notes for the classes that he ran last year, and Harry was looking forward to the planned curriculum for DADA. Harry still hadn't heard from Mad-eye, and Remus was quite cagey about it.

Two years in a row actually learning something? And this time, it was Snape who was afraid of upsetting the instructor, and was on notice to 'mind yer manners, or else!'

Oh, to be a fly on that wall!

**OO**

Tuesday, August 23rd, Chateau Lumiere

Hedwig showing up with a letter from Hogwarts was a surprise. She tried twice to deliver it directly, earning herself a reprimand, twice, from the house-elf.

Baxter should have known better. The old elf earned a bitten ear that was bleeding slightly and the fracas wound up tearing the actual letter.

The old elf had that fixed in a snap, but the ear wouldn't fix that quickly so, Baxter sported a plaster on the ear instead.

Hedwig's indignation at such treatment promised pain in Harry's future.

Baxter brought Harry his correspondence on a silver tray. With a mint. Honestly! He could have gotten his letter himself, petted his now annoyed owl, and avoided bloodshed.

Speaking of which, she swooped in from outside somehow, no windows were open, and let Harry know in language most fowl that she did not approve of her treatment at that elf's hands! And just what were owl-treats really made of? She had some suggestions.

While Harry petted and cooed over his upset familiar, the elf served the letter.

The tray also contained a fancy silver knife that resembled but was not a butter knife that was the pureblood tool of choice to open said letters. Really? Petunia needed to know this so that she could go out to find a matching piece to her seventy piece fancy (fake) sterling silver set. Ha!

The Blacks had commissioned enough silverware for several houses several generations back. Goblets, plates - why have plain ones? The house sigil was on everything, down to this not-a-butter-knife.

The adult version was far sharper, resembled a stiletto, and if one hadn't been used for murder at least once, Harry would have been shocked!

But he was a 'baby' of the House, and so therefore, he had to have the child's version that only cut parchment. By magic. The thing was dull. Harry had tested it. Hoping that the name of the tool was on it somewhere. No such luck.

Harry was too embarrassed to ask what it was called!

Baxter sensed his question though, and intoned "Tis a parchment knife, Heir Black. The children's version of course."

He popped away at Harry's scowl. Clearly the adult version had been used for violence before and Baxter didn't want Harry testing the children's version on him. Harry was not a child! He had never been a child.

The Potter heir then focused on actually reading for a time.

Harry was spluttering, so Aunt Calladora asked to see the letter. Lord Black was out at the moment. The ladies were with the Delacours at a magical spa in Hogsmeade. Darlene's treat for the witches, and Harry had declined going. Their invitation had been a joke since it was ladies only, but Harry had missed it.

It sounded far too girly for him, thank you very much. Aunt Calladora chose to spend the day with him rather than with the rest of the family. She chose HIM. Sirius was being questioned in the ICW, and Neville was spending time with Jean-Claude hunting chupacabras at the palace. Harry had been invited, but he really didn't like the idea of killing things.

Instead, he was spending the day with this witch, learning a bit of family history, made lunch for her, much to the distress of the ancient elf, and was just enjoying a quiet day before school started.

"What a beautiful lady! Hello there." Aunt Calladora crooned, the proud owl ate up this lady's affections that she so much deserved. The occasional cold looks towards Harry were not abating, despite her favorite treats being offered. Or Harry's abject apologies, despite the fact that he had told Baxter that he would get his own stinkin' letter!

Harry swore that his deafness was selective. If a master was giving an order he didn't like, he heard nothing! Nothing! Though the old elf had improved after meeting Winky's wooden spoon.

The letter was from McGonagall. Apologizing for the last minute changes, but due to overfilled classrooms, Harry wouldn't be allowed to take Estate Planning, Runes or Arithmancy. Ever so sorry.

Aunt Calladora's look now reflected his. They both smelled a rat. And it wasn't Scabbers.

He had three years of education at Hogwarts, and had done enough transfiguration essays, that she had marked. He knew her handwriting.

This was too even; it was a dictaquill. Something that she would never use for a letter like this! Especially to Harry!

Harry asked Aunt Calladora to ask Baxter to bring him his muggle backpack. He pulled out muggle paper and pen and wrote his reply:

'Dear Professor McGonagall,

'You know very well that Lord Black has the resources to send me to any school in the world. He also made it clear what would happen if I wasn't allowed to take classes that would benefit me.

'I would be very happy to attend school here in France. I could even live with my great-aunt Calladora. You know. The relative related to me. By blood. A magical relative that not only LIKES me, she is teaching me all sorts of things not covered in school. Family history. Family magic.

'Shame I was dropped off on a muggle doorstep. In November. With magic-hating muggles. Guess they needed the house-elf, but just like Dobby, I am free now!

'I am very happy to attend another school. As soon as Lord Black returns, I will send in the transfer paperwork. Oh, that's right. We use animal skin for our letters. The parchment work.

'Have a lovely day. I know I will. We're going to go to Euro Disney later on for dinner and to watch the fireworks. Fred and George are coming to make notes.

'Cheers,

'Harry Potter'

After making a copy, Harry sent the letter with Jam rather than risk Hedwig. Or his fingers in trying to approach her at the moment. Jam returned, a suspicious looking splotch on his face he refused to explain.

Apparently, Jam had been neglecting Juniper, and she had shown her displeasure.

'Mr Potter,

'My mistake. I was misinformed. There is plenty of seating for you in all of your classes. Please remind the twins that fireworks of all kinds are banned within most of Hogwarts.

'They are, however, allowed to set off as many as they like in Albus Dumbledore's office or clothes closet.

'Sincerely,

'Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress

PS Mr Potter, I swear on my magic that I didn't remember you being related to the Blacks until my memories were restored the day after you moved to Blackmoor Hall. The day your godparents wed.

'I don't know who sent a letter signing my name, but it tweren'tme. MM'

Harry reread the letter again after Calladora handed it back. Part of their work today was a bit more family tree grafting; something that gave Harry much joy. And Harry got to tell her about Eva Prewitt and how well that estate was now doing.

Calladora had laughed and clapped, and promised to buy one of the lady's paintings when they went up for sale.

That was the last day for the family in Paris; they would be heading home after the fireworks. But they were bringing the elderly witch with them.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 23rd, Professor Slughorn's

Penny had an idea regarding the blood cleanser. Since the Fairy Gold plant –she wasn't going to try and pronounce it– was doing well but didn't bloom often, and they only had four struggling little plants to begin with, she had an idea.

Why not use the plants currently used in the manufacture of leprechaun gold?

Fortunately, Harry had already taken care of the dementors in that one castle in Ireland, with no NPGs asked for as the Irish fed into Hogwarts. Once the explanation of what they were looking for was understood, a flat of flowers arrived.

"Please keep this under wraps. The leprechauns value their privacy. But we will supply enough to brew the cure if the substitution works."

The Irish government even had a few prisoners that had volunteered to test the cure. Werewolves there were not immediately put down just because they had been caught doing something wrong. Or in this case, a small pack caught hijacking.

Penny was very clever, and with Slughorn's help, they played with the formula until they had it! The test worked, and the three men and one witch were now free and clear from the disease.

They would work with the family to come up with a fair price for this life changing potion. Part of it would depend on the cost of the substitute blossoms but no one was looking to make a fortune on the misery of others.

Potions Master Slughorn beamed. Penelope Black was going to be famous. Her instincts in changing the potion were spot on; like him, she used her contacts not to hurt anyone, but to help everyone.

It was then that he decided to approach Minerva McGonagall. If she ever had a young student whose family rejected them for being magical, he would adopt that child.

Being around Harry Potter and his friends had been rejuvenating to him. And now, he was going to be world famous.

Slughorn thought of all the interesting snacks people would send him from all around the world.

They had potions to brew and clinicals to set up; likely at Saint Patrick's in Ireland if they got permission.

And Ireland would share in the fame even if there was no wealth in this one.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 23rd, Blackmoor Hall

It was time. The cleanses were done; the curse breaking attempted with no positive result. The goblins had done everything they could to bring Alice and Frank Longbottom to full health.

They both looked much better than when they'd arrived.

They both still had magic, though neither had a wand. Likely to prevent accidents, but the healers were encouraging the limited wands sold to squibs to at least let them try and use a light spell.

The family promised that they would.

They were not cured, but Neville noticed that his mother's hair was no longer lank and greasy; his father's eyes looked less rheumy.

The staff was hired, trained, and in place. Gringotts had done all of that, and for a modest fee too.

(The Malfoys left behind several goblin artifacts. Only fair to trade them in for healing needed due to them.)

Both Augusta and Calladora would be stopping in to visit them. The infirmary in the basement was converted to treatment rooms for Darlene's use, and one of the ground floor bedrooms with two bedrooms attached was turned into Frank and Alice's room. It was technically the Heir's room, but Harry had never been in it. Not yet.

It had a wonderful bay window that didn't poke out from the outside of the house, but did from the inside. Chairs were placed there so that the couple could sit in the sun, see the lovely flowers, and enjoy the peace of the setting.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 23rd, Ollivanders

"Ah! Miss Hermione Granger, Vinewood and dragon heartstring. And you sir. Daniel Granger…I can't remember your wand. I never forget a wand!

"You didn't fit me with one sir. I have come to buy one." Dan did not elaborate.

"Broken? Burned out? No matter, the loss can be poignant."

"Vinewood seems to be a good match, sir." Dan offered.

"Yes, well. Let's see who chooses you this time."

Dan walked out of the shop with a wand a different length but the same components as his daughter. It made him feel warm and cozy.

Emma and Harry came out of the shadows and joined them.

"Alright there, Dan?" Harry asked.

Dan cast 'lumos' and the wand lit.

Draco walked by sneering at muggles using prank wands. Harry was tempted to do something, but let it go.

The official parchment work for Daniel Granger, as a late bloomer, was never filed by Ollivander. He was one that just slipped through the cracks.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 23rd, High Octane

As much as Moony now accepted Marius, the healer didn't accept what his host was planning, and tried to reason with Remus.

'Ask Celeste along.' His inner wolf begged. 'Our mate would help you end the vampire. Think how much fun it would be!'

Ignoring him, and kissing his sleeping wife goodbye, Remus checked his weapons. Wooden stake, garlic, cross. He had a nice partnership going, but Byron admitted it himself that he was dangerous. It was only a backup, he didn't expect trouble. Well, not from Ambrose!

But having recently been attacked and left for dead did affect his Vigilance, and it was now on 'Constant'.

Byron again welcomed him, and again offered him expensive alcohol. Remus could drink just about anything, and never feel it –though he hadn't tested that ability since taking the cure–, but there were many silent, scentless poisons. Not that he didn't trust the vampire exactly - but there were many people here, including enemies. He could smell them.

"I would appreciate it if you would tell 'your friends' that I remember nothing for days before or after the attack. I have contacted all of my friends to make sure that I was alone when attacked. Everyone seems fine."

The purr was clear, "Even Alastor Moody?"

"I received a letter from Dumbledore, telling me everything was fine." Bryon made a signal to a server behind his back, but kept his look neutral. Remus continued, "I'm going to go up there tomorrow and make sure that Moody is fine. And bring Albus his silly lemon drops. That man! Can't go without his lemon candies, can he? Great man, Dumbledore!"

**OO**

A/N: Recommended Story: Your story recommendation here!

A/N Thank you Tumshie for recommending The-Family-that-Chooses-You by Wokfriedice

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ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language