There For You
Chapter 20: No Way In Hell
Author's Note: Hey, sorry it's taken so long to get this out but I was on vacation the week before last and had homework last week and ballet and stuff. OK, let me explain about the Grangers a bit. We've all always pictured them really nice, kind of clueless muggles right? Well, I have too but whenever I thought about places I might include them in my fics, I always had them mean like that. I don't know why, I've just never wanted them nice. It doesn't mean that Hermione grew up with mean and horrible parents, they just don't understand what's happening in the wizarding world and don't like what's happening to their daughter, you know? They aren't going to play a big role in my series though so don't worry about them anymore. Also, I got some comments that Harry and Ginny should try out a promise ring but I'm not going to do that. Their relationship is different than Ron and Hermione's and I don't want to have them doing all the same things. Sorry!
Madam Pomfrey let Harry eat breakfast in the Hospital Wing after Ron left. Ginny had taken a dreamless sleeping potion and slept peacefully as Harry ate, unaware of his continuous watch on her. The guilt he had felt the night before still laid heavily on his conscience. Hermione's voice kept replaying itself in his head, "Harry, wait. Shouldn't we go tell Dumbledore or someone?" What if he had taken the time? Maybe Hermione wouldn't be in the hospital. If Dumbledore knew before though, would Harry have been allowed to go? They were waiting for him to come get Ginny. If he hadn't gone, would they have kept Ginny alive? Thankfully, Madam Pomfrey interrupted his thoughts.
"Potter, the Headmaster would like to see you. He said you know the way to his office." Harry nodded and made his way out of the Hospital Wing to the stone gargoyle that was the entrance to Dumbledore's office. He hadn't asked for the password though.
"Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes," he tried since that was the last one. The gargoyle remained motionless. Harry looked around wondering if he should go and ask Madam Pomfrey what it was. However, the gargoyle opened a second later with Dumbledore standing behind it.
"Hello, Harry," he said warmly. "Please, come in."
Harry followed him onto to the moving staircase and up to the Headmaster's familiar room.
"Have a seat," Dumbledore offered, indicating the chair opposite his desk. Harry took it as he looked around the room. Today was apparently Fawkes' Burning Day. A small baby bird sat on his perch. "Yes," Dumbledore said. "He did it a couple of hours ago. It gave Mr. Malfoy quite a surprise."
"You spoke to Malfoy?" Harry asked sharply. "Er, sir?"
"Yes, we met before classes began. I had to discuss his involvement in last night's events. We will talk about that soon though. First, however, we have other matters of importance." He paused pensively before continuing. "I cannot be angry with you about your hurried leave to find Miss Weasley. Unhappy, but not angry. You have broken more rules than almost any student I have known yet I do nothing to stop you. Every year at school you have purposefully gone into dangerous situations except your fourth year seeing as that was not your fault. I have been proud of you each time because you show bravery beyond anything I ever expected. Now, I must ask something of you that I desperately need you to obey: Do not ever go after Voldemort alone again. Even when you take your friends with you, you are as good as alone."
"Ron and Hermione helped me a lot!"
"I am not saying you are all useless and cannot take care of yourselves but this is a matter of life and death. You know that already and have for some time now but nonetheless, with this knowledge you still left last night armed with only two teenage wizards by your side. I am amazed the four of you survived since this time you were not holding a prophecy as a bribe for your life. I understand your motive was saving Miss Weasley. I understand you would risk your own existence for any friend or family member in trouble but the problem is, I am not the only person aware of this. Voldemort knows, Harry. He knows and he has taken advantage of your selflessness twice now. This must never happen again. If Voldemort or his followers abduct someone, you are not to go looking for them by yourself or accompanied by solely Ron and Hermione. You are to come tell me or a member of the Order. No exceptions, Harry. Do you understand?" Harry sat staring at the floor, feeling thoroughly ashamed of himself yet he didn't want to answer. "Harry, your friends would die for you but we cannot allow that to happen, at least not now." Harry's head snapped up.
"What do you mean not now? There will be a time for them to die?!"
"Harry, I fear war may come and we will need as many as we can get on our side, including your friends. Members of our side have reported much talk about Voldemort all over the country as well as others. You were correct last night in saying the Death Eaters would escape from prison in no time. Despite the new wards and security holding them, they will escape. They are Voldemort's followers and he is very powerful. Wormtail was not found in the house and has undoubtedly already rejoined his master. I believe Voldemort has seen that fighting you and your friends only with his current Death Eaters does not give him what he wants from the past two encounters. He will build his side now as he did years and years ago. Some will join him in fear, others by their own choice. Few can be trusted. We will not be sure if those we know are loyal to us, Voldemort, or no one. I trust the members of the Order obviously but outside that will be difficult to know. We must all be on guard. If we find that Voldemort is indeed building his side and possibly what he is planning, actions will have to be taken such as creating our own army. War, I fear, is inevitable. Voldemort will tire of solely searching for the contents of the prophecy and return to his original goal: to have all power. As I said, this will require more people for his side."
"So he's going to go after world domination or something?"
"Perhaps eventually. It will not be achieved quickly but is possible to get if he were to conquer all the right people."
"Like me?"
"Yes. This is why I ask you to never pursue Voldemort again unless you are told to do so by me or I allow you to go somewhere, likely with my company. Voldemort does not realize I cannot kill him so he still has some degree of fear towards me. His fear of you is far less. If he were to find out he need only kill you and have no other dangers to him, I am afraid he would attempt to get rid of you as quickly as possible and this cannot happen. Will you promise me never to go after him again?"
"Yes," Harry finally gave in. "I'm sorry."
"I know. I do not mean to place more guilt upon you, as I know you have already put enough on yourself already but I must stress to you the importance of your safety. Without you, Voldemort will take over in a heartbeat. I regret this burden belonging to you but there is nothing we can do about it but keep you away until you can face Voldemort with the power to kill him." Dumbledore's voice cracked slightly as he said this last statement and a tear rolled down his cheek.
"How will I know if I can kill him? I can't even do the Cruciatus Curse!"
"This summer and next year will be quite different," he answered, composing himself. "If Voldemort does try to create an army, fighting them will do nothing unless the leader can be killed. We must train you to do this. Do you remember our discussion last year after the Department of Mysteries?"
"Yes."
"I mentioned a room full of the power you have to vanquish the Dark Lord. This power, as you may have realized, is love. This room will help you learn to fight with love and kill when necessary. It will take much persuasion to the Ministry for permission to use this room but we will have to find a way. I have not made you do this yet as Voldemort remained particularly quiet this past year and I felt you did not need the extra activity yet. Also, I feel you should be trained in Occlumency, which I will teach you this summer and into next year. The power to invade your mind in war would serve as a very powerful weapon for Voldemort so you must learn to block it. I did not begin training you earlier this year because Voldemort was showing no signs of activity and you no signs of scar discomfort. Voldemort apparently did not want any association with your mind this year so he did not try to get inside your head."
"My scar did hurt yesterday when I talked to Malfoy and found out Ginny was gone."
"I am guessing you were angry?"
"Yes."
"In your times of emotion such as anger, your mind is more susceptible to him. Do you have any questions so far?" Harry shook his head and Dumbledore nodded. "Now, we must discuss this summer. I will not be sending you back to your aunt and uncles house." Harry stared at him in shock.
"I-I don't have to go back?"
"No. Though staying with your aunt means Voldemort cannot touch you, it does not mean nothing can hurt you as you found out when the Dementor came to your street summer before last. Aurors can watch you but it doesn't mean complete safety for you. You would have been free to leave the Dursley's home on your birthday anyway so I don't think an extra month or so will matter. I feel the alternative home I have chosen will keep you out of danger for the summer though you probably will not like the location."
"Why, where is it?"
"Grimmauld Place." Harry's insides became cold. "I understand you will feel pain returning to Sirius' house but it will be safe for you to be there. Numerous extra wards have been placed there in addition to those that had been there since last year. Aurors will also be there to watch over everything. Few know of its existence and few can enter it, only those I trust. I thank you again for turning Grimmauld Place over to the Order after Sirius died and left it to you. It has proved a useful location and will continue to do so until your seventh year begins and you can return to Hogwarts. You will not be alone at Grimmauld Place, however. The Weasley's, Miss Granger, and Professor Lupin will also reside there."
"You mean I can live with Ginny, Ron, and Hermione all summer?"
"Yes," Dumbledore answered. "The four of you are in danger after last night and I feel it would be safest to keep you all there. Voldemort has seen both Hermione and Ginny. He didn't see Ron but all the Death Eaters saw him and many of them know Arthur Weasley. I also saw Mr. and Mrs. Granger today with the Weasleys and discussed this arrangement with them. Miss Granger's parents were quite unhappy about it but agreed in the end for Hermione's safety. There is, however, another person who will be living at Grimmauld Place this summer."
"Who?"
"Draco Malfoy."
"Malfoy? Why the hell would Malfoy live there?" Harry exclaimed, jumping out of his chair. Dumbledore had obviously lost his mind. "He bloody helped Voldemort and his dad get Ginny to the Riddle House! He's been plotting against us the whole time!"
"I have talked to Draco about this and we came to an agreement. He has his own reasons for his behavior but it is not my place to explain them to you. Perhaps in the future he will tell you."
"How can you let him stay? He probably just agreed to it to feed his dad secrets about the Order! He'll tell them where it is and what's being planned and everything! If Ginny had died it would have been his fault!"
"Draco does not know about the Order or where it is he is staying. He has no reason to know. He thinks it is just a safe house. You are not to mention it to him or give the name of the house. He will not be in contact with his father while he lives there."
"But why can't he go to his own house? His mum agreed to this?"
"Mrs. Malfoy will be moving to a new location, changing her name, and her looks. Sort of like the Witness Protection Program of muggles."
"Why does she have to hide?"
"She has no desire to be in contact with her husband. Draco does not want contact either."
"I don't understand-"
"You do not need to understand. In the future you will probably know the entire story but for now, it is not necessary. I ask you not to badger Draco about it; he will tell when he is ready. I know your history with him is not friendly but I ask that you be civil with him. Avoid arguments and fights. Perhaps keep away from each other for a while. I would, however, like you to eventually try to befriend him."
"No way in hell! He sent Ginny straight to Voldemort!" Dumbledore sighed.
"Things will change over time. The hatred you feel will pass."
"No, I know it won't. There is no way I could ever be his friend!"
"All right, if that is how you feel right now."
"Forever-"
"Forever is a long time, Harry, and things can change without you realizing. Feel free to hate him now but please keep things calm at Grimmauld Place."
"How can you expect Ginny to live with Malfoy after all this?"
"She does not have to spend any time with him at all. I am sure you, her brothers, and Hermione can occupy her. Now, I want to start your Occlumency-"
"Do Ron's parents know about this? About Malfoy?"
"I owled Arthur right after Mr. Malfoy left this morning so he will receive it after he returns from St. Mungo's."
"But he hates the Malfoys too! He won't want him there either."
"It is not his choice. I have already arranged it and that is the final answer on that." Harry sat back down heavily. "I want to start your Occlumency lessons very soon, at least by March. It will be a difficult process but I know you can do it. Hopefully by the time you start Apparition training you will be have gotten the hang of Occlumency."
"What about Legilimency?"
"Perhaps later but first you must learn to block Voldemort." Harry nodded solemnly.
"I believe that is all we need to discuss. If I remember something else I will be sure to call you back. How are you feeling?"
"Like shi-pretty terrible." He had calmed down by then. Confusion, anger, and annoyance still hung on his mind but he tried to ignore it.
"I know. I apologize for all of it. If I could change anything, I would but this is all necessary and important. If you have anything else you need to talk about as well, you are always free to come to me."
"Okay...uh, thanks."
"I hope the rest of the year goes well for you. I will contact you for your first Occlumency training session." Harry nodded again as he stood up. Dumbledore's face remained passionless but Harry could see sadness and anguish in his usually sparkling eyes. As Harry left the room and closed the door behind him, he heard a noise that sounded suspiciously like a sniffle behind him but he chose to ignore it. He turned to walk down the hallway back to Gryffindor Tower but stopped when he almost ran into Lupin who had been leaning against the wall beside the gargoyle.
"Oh, sorry! I didn't realize you were there!"
"Don't worry, I shouldn't have been standing so close. The Headmaster told me before you came that he was going to speak with you so I decided to wait for you. Would you mind coming to my office to talk for a little bit?"
Author's Note: Sorry to stop it there but I'm not sure how long that chat will last and I haven't updated for a while so I thought Dumbledore's speech would be enough for now. Ok, so my sequel to this isn't exactly planned out yet. I have a couple ideas and I've been reading editorials and theories on mugglenet.com about the future books so that is what I'm basing a lot of my stuff from. For example, the part about Harry learning to kill from the room at the Department of Mysteries came from an editorial I read and I think its an interesting idea so I'm going to use it. Also, I had Dumbledore say the power Harry had was love because I think most people believe that's what it is and I agree. Now, Draco isn't necessarily a good person now that he's going live with them but I plan to make him a bigger part of the story. I have read a fic where Draco lives with the other four in Grimmauld Place but I promise I thought of that by myself before I got to that part of the fic. So, you guys know some of what's happening next fic but not much cuz, unfortunately, I don't know much of the plot either! I promise I'll figure it out though. I have time though cuz it's still only February in this story but I won't be dragging out the last few months of school out too much. Hmmm, I think that's all I wanted to say! Next chapter out in probably a week or two.
Individuals:
Bballgirl02: Hehe, me too!
Potterweasly: Well, I hope it hasn't gotten boring for you! Thanks, glad you liked the chapter! I know, the Weasleys are great to write. Yeah, I figure the Grangers have a right to feel that way even if they weren't nice about it. Hehe, I liked writing the Sleeping Pretty thing for Ron. Well, I hope my next two sequels come out okay since I don't really know their plots yet, lol. I'm not sure what exactly I'm going to do with Draco either!
Goldfish r yummy: Lol, glad I got you emotional over it! Yeah, her mom was a bitch but I wanted it that way. I know, they are definitely soul mates!
'Mione Weasley: Lol, thank you very much! I know, I always pictured the Grangers nice too so I decided to make them kind of the opposite. Of course I'm supportive of your fic, it's great as well as the last one. Just do the best you can and update when you're ready. I know, writing is a really hard project! I'm having a tough time figuring out my seventh year fic but I'll get it eventually (hopefully). Lol, thanks again!
Joots: Thanks, glad you liked the ring and stuff! No, the Sleeping Pretty wasn't hinting at anything, it was just a cute Ron moment.
HermioneClone: Thank you, I tried!
Missprongs: Lol, thanks! Sorry, I'm not going to do that with Harry and Ginny.
Harry-potter-luvs-me: Thank you! Glad you liked it!
Ron's Best Mate: Thanks! Yeah, I like Mina too. At first I was going to make her a mean nurse but changed my mind. Yeah, I got your anonymous reviews, didn't Rosie show you what I wrote you in an e-mail to her? I told you I'd gotten them. That's a really funny dream you had. I wish I could meet you too! I promise, if you came to America, I'd be glad to show you around and I'm definitely not royal, lol! I don't take it personally though, I have the strangest dreams too.
Innocent-jt12: Thank you! Wow, another Aussie reader!
Bellalovesron: Hey, thanks! Glad you liked it! I know, a strange portrayal of her, huh? Heh heh, glad you liked the promise ring thing too. I know, if only Ron really existed.
Loli-chick336: Thank you very much! Lol, I liked his Sleeping Pretty comments too. Well duh, I put them in. Anyway...
Tanya J. Potter: Thanks! Lol, yeah they weren't very nice.
Hp/charmed obsessed: Ok, go to the website I listed for you: . See all those questions there to J.K. Rowling? K, go to the third to last comment on the page at the bottom from Sirius Riddle and read his question and her answer. It says from J.K.R. that James was in Gryffindor cuz you had that poll on your story and you said you thought he was in Slytherin but there is your proof he isn't. Yes, I'll read your story but can you send me the link to it? I looked for it but can't find it. Just go to the fic, go to file send link (in case you didn't know how to send links cuz I only learned how to recently) and send it to mdancer15@comcast.net, which is my e-mial address and I'll read it!
Shortywithbrains: Yeah, they'll be back sometime...don't know when but they're too fun to write to leave out for too long. Thanks!
Magicher1: Lol, it's a nice idea but I don't really wanna do that. Sorry!
KrisKG: Thank you! I'm glad you liked what I did! Yeah, who wants the Grangers predictably nice anyway?
Cheese Diva: Lol, I'm glad my fic brings you so much happiness! Yes, the Grangers were mean, lol. Sorry they bothered you so much. Hehe, the promise ring was fun to put in. I know, I loved putting in Melvin. And thanks for your patience in my updating because I will of course update eventually!
MilesFromNormal: Lol, glad I got you so emotional over it! Thank you very much, I'm really happy you liked it so much. I know, I want a soul mate too! Now only 59 days left...wow I haven't updated for a long time!
Penelope Richmond: Thanks! Good, that's exactly what I wanted: understandable but idiots!
J.S. Writer: Sorry I didn't update very quickly but I couldn't! Lol, thank you, I'm very flattered! I could tell you many other fics better than mine though but thanks all the same.
Destiny Amberly Weasley: Thanks! Sorry I didn't update very soon! I know, lucky girl!
Asrai: I'm sorry! I went as fast as I could!
Triniroo: I know, it is. Thank you!
MauradersAreMyGods: Lol, thanks! I could tell you a lot of other fics more plausible than mine but thanks all the same! Yes, I live in Colorado. Lol, I think you're the only one who actually liked the Grangers! They'll be back a bit next chapter but not much. Yes, I'm writing a seventh year fic and an after Hogwarts one later.
Legofiance: Thank you very much! Yes, some action was needed amidst all the fluff.
Le Poseidon: Thanks very much! Don't worry about not reviewing for a while, I haven't updated for a while!
XxGiNnY-hArRyXx: Thank you so much! Yes, I like plot twists, cliffhangers, etc. It just makes the story so much better and more interesting for you all to read. Hopefully I can get some really great twists in the next part of the story! Yeah, I'll read your story as soon as I can! I just put it in my favorites!
Chapter 20: No Way In Hell
Author's Note: Hey, sorry it's taken so long to get this out but I was on vacation the week before last and had homework last week and ballet and stuff. OK, let me explain about the Grangers a bit. We've all always pictured them really nice, kind of clueless muggles right? Well, I have too but whenever I thought about places I might include them in my fics, I always had them mean like that. I don't know why, I've just never wanted them nice. It doesn't mean that Hermione grew up with mean and horrible parents, they just don't understand what's happening in the wizarding world and don't like what's happening to their daughter, you know? They aren't going to play a big role in my series though so don't worry about them anymore. Also, I got some comments that Harry and Ginny should try out a promise ring but I'm not going to do that. Their relationship is different than Ron and Hermione's and I don't want to have them doing all the same things. Sorry!
Madam Pomfrey let Harry eat breakfast in the Hospital Wing after Ron left. Ginny had taken a dreamless sleeping potion and slept peacefully as Harry ate, unaware of his continuous watch on her. The guilt he had felt the night before still laid heavily on his conscience. Hermione's voice kept replaying itself in his head, "Harry, wait. Shouldn't we go tell Dumbledore or someone?" What if he had taken the time? Maybe Hermione wouldn't be in the hospital. If Dumbledore knew before though, would Harry have been allowed to go? They were waiting for him to come get Ginny. If he hadn't gone, would they have kept Ginny alive? Thankfully, Madam Pomfrey interrupted his thoughts.
"Potter, the Headmaster would like to see you. He said you know the way to his office." Harry nodded and made his way out of the Hospital Wing to the stone gargoyle that was the entrance to Dumbledore's office. He hadn't asked for the password though.
"Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes," he tried since that was the last one. The gargoyle remained motionless. Harry looked around wondering if he should go and ask Madam Pomfrey what it was. However, the gargoyle opened a second later with Dumbledore standing behind it.
"Hello, Harry," he said warmly. "Please, come in."
Harry followed him onto to the moving staircase and up to the Headmaster's familiar room.
"Have a seat," Dumbledore offered, indicating the chair opposite his desk. Harry took it as he looked around the room. Today was apparently Fawkes' Burning Day. A small baby bird sat on his perch. "Yes," Dumbledore said. "He did it a couple of hours ago. It gave Mr. Malfoy quite a surprise."
"You spoke to Malfoy?" Harry asked sharply. "Er, sir?"
"Yes, we met before classes began. I had to discuss his involvement in last night's events. We will talk about that soon though. First, however, we have other matters of importance." He paused pensively before continuing. "I cannot be angry with you about your hurried leave to find Miss Weasley. Unhappy, but not angry. You have broken more rules than almost any student I have known yet I do nothing to stop you. Every year at school you have purposefully gone into dangerous situations except your fourth year seeing as that was not your fault. I have been proud of you each time because you show bravery beyond anything I ever expected. Now, I must ask something of you that I desperately need you to obey: Do not ever go after Voldemort alone again. Even when you take your friends with you, you are as good as alone."
"Ron and Hermione helped me a lot!"
"I am not saying you are all useless and cannot take care of yourselves but this is a matter of life and death. You know that already and have for some time now but nonetheless, with this knowledge you still left last night armed with only two teenage wizards by your side. I am amazed the four of you survived since this time you were not holding a prophecy as a bribe for your life. I understand your motive was saving Miss Weasley. I understand you would risk your own existence for any friend or family member in trouble but the problem is, I am not the only person aware of this. Voldemort knows, Harry. He knows and he has taken advantage of your selflessness twice now. This must never happen again. If Voldemort or his followers abduct someone, you are not to go looking for them by yourself or accompanied by solely Ron and Hermione. You are to come tell me or a member of the Order. No exceptions, Harry. Do you understand?" Harry sat staring at the floor, feeling thoroughly ashamed of himself yet he didn't want to answer. "Harry, your friends would die for you but we cannot allow that to happen, at least not now." Harry's head snapped up.
"What do you mean not now? There will be a time for them to die?!"
"Harry, I fear war may come and we will need as many as we can get on our side, including your friends. Members of our side have reported much talk about Voldemort all over the country as well as others. You were correct last night in saying the Death Eaters would escape from prison in no time. Despite the new wards and security holding them, they will escape. They are Voldemort's followers and he is very powerful. Wormtail was not found in the house and has undoubtedly already rejoined his master. I believe Voldemort has seen that fighting you and your friends only with his current Death Eaters does not give him what he wants from the past two encounters. He will build his side now as he did years and years ago. Some will join him in fear, others by their own choice. Few can be trusted. We will not be sure if those we know are loyal to us, Voldemort, or no one. I trust the members of the Order obviously but outside that will be difficult to know. We must all be on guard. If we find that Voldemort is indeed building his side and possibly what he is planning, actions will have to be taken such as creating our own army. War, I fear, is inevitable. Voldemort will tire of solely searching for the contents of the prophecy and return to his original goal: to have all power. As I said, this will require more people for his side."
"So he's going to go after world domination or something?"
"Perhaps eventually. It will not be achieved quickly but is possible to get if he were to conquer all the right people."
"Like me?"
"Yes. This is why I ask you to never pursue Voldemort again unless you are told to do so by me or I allow you to go somewhere, likely with my company. Voldemort does not realize I cannot kill him so he still has some degree of fear towards me. His fear of you is far less. If he were to find out he need only kill you and have no other dangers to him, I am afraid he would attempt to get rid of you as quickly as possible and this cannot happen. Will you promise me never to go after him again?"
"Yes," Harry finally gave in. "I'm sorry."
"I know. I do not mean to place more guilt upon you, as I know you have already put enough on yourself already but I must stress to you the importance of your safety. Without you, Voldemort will take over in a heartbeat. I regret this burden belonging to you but there is nothing we can do about it but keep you away until you can face Voldemort with the power to kill him." Dumbledore's voice cracked slightly as he said this last statement and a tear rolled down his cheek.
"How will I know if I can kill him? I can't even do the Cruciatus Curse!"
"This summer and next year will be quite different," he answered, composing himself. "If Voldemort does try to create an army, fighting them will do nothing unless the leader can be killed. We must train you to do this. Do you remember our discussion last year after the Department of Mysteries?"
"Yes."
"I mentioned a room full of the power you have to vanquish the Dark Lord. This power, as you may have realized, is love. This room will help you learn to fight with love and kill when necessary. It will take much persuasion to the Ministry for permission to use this room but we will have to find a way. I have not made you do this yet as Voldemort remained particularly quiet this past year and I felt you did not need the extra activity yet. Also, I feel you should be trained in Occlumency, which I will teach you this summer and into next year. The power to invade your mind in war would serve as a very powerful weapon for Voldemort so you must learn to block it. I did not begin training you earlier this year because Voldemort was showing no signs of activity and you no signs of scar discomfort. Voldemort apparently did not want any association with your mind this year so he did not try to get inside your head."
"My scar did hurt yesterday when I talked to Malfoy and found out Ginny was gone."
"I am guessing you were angry?"
"Yes."
"In your times of emotion such as anger, your mind is more susceptible to him. Do you have any questions so far?" Harry shook his head and Dumbledore nodded. "Now, we must discuss this summer. I will not be sending you back to your aunt and uncles house." Harry stared at him in shock.
"I-I don't have to go back?"
"No. Though staying with your aunt means Voldemort cannot touch you, it does not mean nothing can hurt you as you found out when the Dementor came to your street summer before last. Aurors can watch you but it doesn't mean complete safety for you. You would have been free to leave the Dursley's home on your birthday anyway so I don't think an extra month or so will matter. I feel the alternative home I have chosen will keep you out of danger for the summer though you probably will not like the location."
"Why, where is it?"
"Grimmauld Place." Harry's insides became cold. "I understand you will feel pain returning to Sirius' house but it will be safe for you to be there. Numerous extra wards have been placed there in addition to those that had been there since last year. Aurors will also be there to watch over everything. Few know of its existence and few can enter it, only those I trust. I thank you again for turning Grimmauld Place over to the Order after Sirius died and left it to you. It has proved a useful location and will continue to do so until your seventh year begins and you can return to Hogwarts. You will not be alone at Grimmauld Place, however. The Weasley's, Miss Granger, and Professor Lupin will also reside there."
"You mean I can live with Ginny, Ron, and Hermione all summer?"
"Yes," Dumbledore answered. "The four of you are in danger after last night and I feel it would be safest to keep you all there. Voldemort has seen both Hermione and Ginny. He didn't see Ron but all the Death Eaters saw him and many of them know Arthur Weasley. I also saw Mr. and Mrs. Granger today with the Weasleys and discussed this arrangement with them. Miss Granger's parents were quite unhappy about it but agreed in the end for Hermione's safety. There is, however, another person who will be living at Grimmauld Place this summer."
"Who?"
"Draco Malfoy."
"Malfoy? Why the hell would Malfoy live there?" Harry exclaimed, jumping out of his chair. Dumbledore had obviously lost his mind. "He bloody helped Voldemort and his dad get Ginny to the Riddle House! He's been plotting against us the whole time!"
"I have talked to Draco about this and we came to an agreement. He has his own reasons for his behavior but it is not my place to explain them to you. Perhaps in the future he will tell you."
"How can you let him stay? He probably just agreed to it to feed his dad secrets about the Order! He'll tell them where it is and what's being planned and everything! If Ginny had died it would have been his fault!"
"Draco does not know about the Order or where it is he is staying. He has no reason to know. He thinks it is just a safe house. You are not to mention it to him or give the name of the house. He will not be in contact with his father while he lives there."
"But why can't he go to his own house? His mum agreed to this?"
"Mrs. Malfoy will be moving to a new location, changing her name, and her looks. Sort of like the Witness Protection Program of muggles."
"Why does she have to hide?"
"She has no desire to be in contact with her husband. Draco does not want contact either."
"I don't understand-"
"You do not need to understand. In the future you will probably know the entire story but for now, it is not necessary. I ask you not to badger Draco about it; he will tell when he is ready. I know your history with him is not friendly but I ask that you be civil with him. Avoid arguments and fights. Perhaps keep away from each other for a while. I would, however, like you to eventually try to befriend him."
"No way in hell! He sent Ginny straight to Voldemort!" Dumbledore sighed.
"Things will change over time. The hatred you feel will pass."
"No, I know it won't. There is no way I could ever be his friend!"
"All right, if that is how you feel right now."
"Forever-"
"Forever is a long time, Harry, and things can change without you realizing. Feel free to hate him now but please keep things calm at Grimmauld Place."
"How can you expect Ginny to live with Malfoy after all this?"
"She does not have to spend any time with him at all. I am sure you, her brothers, and Hermione can occupy her. Now, I want to start your Occlumency-"
"Do Ron's parents know about this? About Malfoy?"
"I owled Arthur right after Mr. Malfoy left this morning so he will receive it after he returns from St. Mungo's."
"But he hates the Malfoys too! He won't want him there either."
"It is not his choice. I have already arranged it and that is the final answer on that." Harry sat back down heavily. "I want to start your Occlumency lessons very soon, at least by March. It will be a difficult process but I know you can do it. Hopefully by the time you start Apparition training you will be have gotten the hang of Occlumency."
"What about Legilimency?"
"Perhaps later but first you must learn to block Voldemort." Harry nodded solemnly.
"I believe that is all we need to discuss. If I remember something else I will be sure to call you back. How are you feeling?"
"Like shi-pretty terrible." He had calmed down by then. Confusion, anger, and annoyance still hung on his mind but he tried to ignore it.
"I know. I apologize for all of it. If I could change anything, I would but this is all necessary and important. If you have anything else you need to talk about as well, you are always free to come to me."
"Okay...uh, thanks."
"I hope the rest of the year goes well for you. I will contact you for your first Occlumency training session." Harry nodded again as he stood up. Dumbledore's face remained passionless but Harry could see sadness and anguish in his usually sparkling eyes. As Harry left the room and closed the door behind him, he heard a noise that sounded suspiciously like a sniffle behind him but he chose to ignore it. He turned to walk down the hallway back to Gryffindor Tower but stopped when he almost ran into Lupin who had been leaning against the wall beside the gargoyle.
"Oh, sorry! I didn't realize you were there!"
"Don't worry, I shouldn't have been standing so close. The Headmaster told me before you came that he was going to speak with you so I decided to wait for you. Would you mind coming to my office to talk for a little bit?"
Author's Note: Sorry to stop it there but I'm not sure how long that chat will last and I haven't updated for a while so I thought Dumbledore's speech would be enough for now. Ok, so my sequel to this isn't exactly planned out yet. I have a couple ideas and I've been reading editorials and theories on mugglenet.com about the future books so that is what I'm basing a lot of my stuff from. For example, the part about Harry learning to kill from the room at the Department of Mysteries came from an editorial I read and I think its an interesting idea so I'm going to use it. Also, I had Dumbledore say the power Harry had was love because I think most people believe that's what it is and I agree. Now, Draco isn't necessarily a good person now that he's going live with them but I plan to make him a bigger part of the story. I have read a fic where Draco lives with the other four in Grimmauld Place but I promise I thought of that by myself before I got to that part of the fic. So, you guys know some of what's happening next fic but not much cuz, unfortunately, I don't know much of the plot either! I promise I'll figure it out though. I have time though cuz it's still only February in this story but I won't be dragging out the last few months of school out too much. Hmmm, I think that's all I wanted to say! Next chapter out in probably a week or two.
Individuals:
Bballgirl02: Hehe, me too!
Potterweasly: Well, I hope it hasn't gotten boring for you! Thanks, glad you liked the chapter! I know, the Weasleys are great to write. Yeah, I figure the Grangers have a right to feel that way even if they weren't nice about it. Hehe, I liked writing the Sleeping Pretty thing for Ron. Well, I hope my next two sequels come out okay since I don't really know their plots yet, lol. I'm not sure what exactly I'm going to do with Draco either!
Goldfish r yummy: Lol, glad I got you emotional over it! Yeah, her mom was a bitch but I wanted it that way. I know, they are definitely soul mates!
'Mione Weasley: Lol, thank you very much! I know, I always pictured the Grangers nice too so I decided to make them kind of the opposite. Of course I'm supportive of your fic, it's great as well as the last one. Just do the best you can and update when you're ready. I know, writing is a really hard project! I'm having a tough time figuring out my seventh year fic but I'll get it eventually (hopefully). Lol, thanks again!
Joots: Thanks, glad you liked the ring and stuff! No, the Sleeping Pretty wasn't hinting at anything, it was just a cute Ron moment.
HermioneClone: Thank you, I tried!
Missprongs: Lol, thanks! Sorry, I'm not going to do that with Harry and Ginny.
Harry-potter-luvs-me: Thank you! Glad you liked it!
Ron's Best Mate: Thanks! Yeah, I like Mina too. At first I was going to make her a mean nurse but changed my mind. Yeah, I got your anonymous reviews, didn't Rosie show you what I wrote you in an e-mail to her? I told you I'd gotten them. That's a really funny dream you had. I wish I could meet you too! I promise, if you came to America, I'd be glad to show you around and I'm definitely not royal, lol! I don't take it personally though, I have the strangest dreams too.
Innocent-jt12: Thank you! Wow, another Aussie reader!
Bellalovesron: Hey, thanks! Glad you liked it! I know, a strange portrayal of her, huh? Heh heh, glad you liked the promise ring thing too. I know, if only Ron really existed.
Loli-chick336: Thank you very much! Lol, I liked his Sleeping Pretty comments too. Well duh, I put them in. Anyway...
Tanya J. Potter: Thanks! Lol, yeah they weren't very nice.
Hp/charmed obsessed: Ok, go to the website I listed for you: . See all those questions there to J.K. Rowling? K, go to the third to last comment on the page at the bottom from Sirius Riddle and read his question and her answer. It says from J.K.R. that James was in Gryffindor cuz you had that poll on your story and you said you thought he was in Slytherin but there is your proof he isn't. Yes, I'll read your story but can you send me the link to it? I looked for it but can't find it. Just go to the fic, go to file send link (in case you didn't know how to send links cuz I only learned how to recently) and send it to mdancer15@comcast.net, which is my e-mial address and I'll read it!
Shortywithbrains: Yeah, they'll be back sometime...don't know when but they're too fun to write to leave out for too long. Thanks!
Magicher1: Lol, it's a nice idea but I don't really wanna do that. Sorry!
KrisKG: Thank you! I'm glad you liked what I did! Yeah, who wants the Grangers predictably nice anyway?
Cheese Diva: Lol, I'm glad my fic brings you so much happiness! Yes, the Grangers were mean, lol. Sorry they bothered you so much. Hehe, the promise ring was fun to put in. I know, I loved putting in Melvin. And thanks for your patience in my updating because I will of course update eventually!
MilesFromNormal: Lol, glad I got you so emotional over it! Thank you very much, I'm really happy you liked it so much. I know, I want a soul mate too! Now only 59 days left...wow I haven't updated for a long time!
Penelope Richmond: Thanks! Good, that's exactly what I wanted: understandable but idiots!
J.S. Writer: Sorry I didn't update very quickly but I couldn't! Lol, thank you, I'm very flattered! I could tell you many other fics better than mine though but thanks all the same.
Destiny Amberly Weasley: Thanks! Sorry I didn't update very soon! I know, lucky girl!
Asrai: I'm sorry! I went as fast as I could!
Triniroo: I know, it is. Thank you!
MauradersAreMyGods: Lol, thanks! I could tell you a lot of other fics more plausible than mine but thanks all the same! Yes, I live in Colorado. Lol, I think you're the only one who actually liked the Grangers! They'll be back a bit next chapter but not much. Yes, I'm writing a seventh year fic and an after Hogwarts one later.
Legofiance: Thank you very much! Yes, some action was needed amidst all the fluff.
Le Poseidon: Thanks very much! Don't worry about not reviewing for a while, I haven't updated for a while!
XxGiNnY-hArRyXx: Thank you so much! Yes, I like plot twists, cliffhangers, etc. It just makes the story so much better and more interesting for you all to read. Hopefully I can get some really great twists in the next part of the story! Yeah, I'll read your story as soon as I can! I just put it in my favorites!