The List

By: lbfan

A corny disclaimer: You're spot on. All of the characters used throughout this flick are taken from the long hours of work by J.K Rowling. She is the one who actually owns all of this background and setting. We just simply write these stories for pleasure and no money. If you want to spend money, buy her books or go watch one of the Harry Potter films.

Chapter 7 – Lord Black

The party ended. Neville found out the name of the phoenix was Athena. She had decided to live with Neville. He was pleasantly surprised to have been chosen as a phoenix companion.

Harry left the room and sat by himself quietly in the study. Concerned, Ginny joined him. After holding his hand for a while, she smacked him in the back of the head and went up to her room.

Dan saw Ginny left in an irritable mood, and he went to investigate. He walked into the study, and asked, "Hey Son, what's bothering you?"

Harry explained how Neville had been chosen by a phoenix to be it companion. Harry said, "I guess I have become too use to everything in this conflict revolving around me facing down Voldemort. Over these last few years, every conflict, every struggle and fight has brought me one step closer to a resolution with Voldemort. Receiving a phoenix companion is a blessing which rarely occurs, and usually only occurs to the strong and pure of heart."

Dan related to him, "Son, it is true that conflicts are happening all around you, but not all of them will focus on you. I heard what you said about the Battle of the Burrow, how there was not just one hero. Well, this conflict we face may need more than just you and Ron. Go see Neville, and be happy for him. Remember to take a step back and look at people from a different point of view. You'll be surprised what you find."

"Thanks Dad."

Harry entered his room to see Neville and Ron talking. Harry didn't interrupt, but walked over to Athena and greeted her. She seemed to like him, and Harry liked her.

Neville asked, "Are you mad she didn't come to you?"

Harry replied, "Yes Neville, I was jealous that a phoenix has chosen you over me, but for all things there is a reason. I'm sorry Neville for behaving that way. You are a blessed wizard to have Athena as a companion. It definitely attests to who you are in your heart."

Harry walked out of the room, and went to the girl's room. He knocked and asked to come in. Hermione, Ginny and Luna were talking. They were all in their night dresses, sitting on their beds, having girl talk. Ginny caught his eye with trepidation on her face. She walked up to Harry and took his hand. A moment later, she tip toed up to him, and gave him a kiss. In return, he gave her a brief hug which said 'thank you' without even saying a word.

Hermione asked, "Harry, I don't get it either, why Neville?"

Harry answered, "Neville is a great man. It may or may not be related to our conflict, but not everything has to happen directly or indirectly to me. Athena is gentle and friendly. She will make him a good companion."

He talked a bit more before going down to the barn. In the barn, he practiced magic control using the Lumos spell. He kept it up all night until he could actually feel and gauge the intensity of the magic that he was using. He also noticed he could cast magic without a wand. It took more power and concentration, but with time, he was sure he would master that too.

The next morning, Harry was awoken with a gentle shake from his red-haired girlfriend. In a panic, Harry asked "What time is it?"

Ginny replied, "6:00. You still have some time to get dressed and come downstairs." She headed out the door. When she closed the door to the boys' room, her dad was glaring at her. Nonchalantly, she said, "Good morning Dad," and walked down the stairs.

In the kitchen, she helped Dobby put together some breakfast for Harry. When Harry came down to eat, a full plate was ready for him. They sat together and talked while they ate. As Molly and Arthur came into the kitchen, Harry was just finishing. Ginny walked him out into the yard and sent him off with a kiss.

When she came back inside, her dad asked to talk with her. Arthur told her, "Ginny, I don't want to see you in your boyfriend's room late at night or early in the morning." He continued his speech stressing that it encouraged giving into temptation.

Ginny stressed back that her brother was in the room. There was no privacy, and Harry and she were not going to do that before marriage. They conceded that she would leave the door open whenever she was in there with him. She also agreed that if they did do that, she would use Contraceptive Potions from a healer or nurse.

Ginny felt very uncomfortable, talking about that subject. What was worse, Emma and Dan entered the room smiling, right after they were done talking. 'Great going Dad, right in front of his new parents,' she thought. Embarrassment made her face and ears turn as red as her hair.

Ron entered the room for breakfast. Molly asked her son to join them at the funerals later that day.

Ginny complained, "I don't have anything black to wear." Her mother told her that she would take her shopping that day.

Ron told his mother, "Neville, Harry and I are going to get our apparition licenses this afternoon. I'll catch up with you afterwards. Why such the late notice?"

Ginny speculated, "It is because of me, isn't it?"

Molly answered, "Yes, security measures means last minute decisions on place and time."

Remus entered carrying the post. He passed Ginny an official looking envelope carrying her O.W.L results. She made nine OWL's six of which were O's for outstanding.

Harry arrived at the bank, to find a line already forming outside the door. Harry waited in the line. At 7:05 a goblin poked his head out the door and found Harry standing in the line. With a few other goblins for security, Griphook came out of the bank and walked up to Harry in the line. Griphook noticed Harry was in disguise and called him by his less known formal name, "Lord Black." Harry returned the greeting, "Griphook, may the light of fortune follow you all day." Harry finished with a bow. Griphook returned the bow and said, "Lord Black, you mustn't stand in this line. This is for the regular customers." It had been a few years since he had been to Gringotts, and much had changed.

When Harry entered the bank, he found the front of the regular customer line wrapped around and ended in front of a surly looking goblin seated at a high desk. Griphook steered him over to a lone desk in the back, which had a sign that read, "Preferential Customers." There, Harry introduced himself, "I'm Lord Black, and I have an appointment to review my vaults. The goblin at this desk introduced himself as Account Manager Baggot. He said, "Lord Black, Griphook will accompany you to your vaults as pre-arranged."

Griphook directed Harry over to the vault carts. Just as one of the common customers started to get into it, they were stopped. They were then asked to wait for the next cart. Harry was guided into this cart, and was quickly whisked away.

Griphook took Harry first to his usual trust vault. This vault was only had one third the amount of gold it use to hold. Harry knew it was because he had one-fifth of the gold put into a Muggle bank, and he has been spending 5 thousand Galleons a week supporting research for a lycanthropy cure. After Harry asked, Griphook told him that he had fifteen thousand six hundred and twenty-one Galleons in this vault. Harry just shrugged at the amount, and they continued on to the next. They ended up visiting another five vaults. One was from Dumbledore's estate. It had about the same amount of gold as his trust account, and a few books. The second was his Potter family vault. This vault had hundreds of thousands of Galleons in it with clothes, enchanted weapons, more books and documents. The last three vaults were from the Black estates. The first one was just gold. The second one had gold, but also some jewelry and enchanted weapons. The last one was the real find. It had documents of land titles, leases, mortgage documents, research papers, books, scrolls, high value enchanted items, a pensive with memories and a few choice weapons. The last one almost looked like a high security office. A signet ring was required to get into the black family vaults, where as the Potter family vault opened up on biological recognition scans.

Harry was surprised when he was looking over the enchanted objects, that he could feel the magic in them. Some of the weapons actually had an aura about them.

Harry asked Griphook about mortgaged and leased property management. Griphook answered, "Mrs. Weasley is doing that. She has a talent for encouraging wizards to face their financial responsibilities." Harry was pleased, assuming that he meant Fleur.

Harry was ushered into an office to visit with Ragnok. Ragnok handed him four envelopes, and told him that they were personal letters which accompanied the various wills. Harry sat and read them.

Dumbledore's was a contingency will. Since Dumbledore died at the hand of Snape, Harry received everything which was supposed to be given to him. Much of Dumbledore's assets were given away to the other family, friends, and order members. But Harry still received a third of the entire estate, including the Barbados beach house. Severus Snape got nothing. His letter explained that he was wrong for trusting in Snape. Dumbledore told Harry, "Keep to the plan and never stop. Create a life to live after the conflict to give you a reason to live. Don't push away the ones you love."

Sirius gave ten percent of his gold to Remus, ten percent to his cousin Tonks, and five percent to Dumbledore. All of the properties, possessions, titles, and remaining seventy-five percent of gold were left to Harry. The properties which were black family residences were: Grimmauld Place, Black Country Estates, Black Mediterranean Villa, and a Hunting cabin in Northern Scotland. The rest of the properties were rentals. Sirius told Harry, "I am blessed to have been your godfather. You can always ask Remus to adopt you. He loves you too. But due to his once a month flea problem, the ministry probably won't allow it. It is because of that I have left you in Dumbledore's custody. Don't give up the fight. Remember, that once this is over, you can go back to having a normal life without hiding. Take some time to fall in love. If you are anything like your dad, you will probably fall for some red head. Actually, seeing how you look at Ginny, reminded Remus and I, how James looked at Lily for years."

In Harry's Dad's letter, He wrote, "In the estate we leave you, there are many rentals. We intentionally are helping some people purchase their rentals by using mortgages. Some day they will pay their last payment and own their own property. It is important that you treat these renters and mortgage payers with compassion. Hard times hit everyone sometime in their life. It is easy for us to forgive a payment and help them get back on their feet.

Harry, I love you. Every day with you is a blessing of joy and hope. Our departure from your life may bring times of great hardship. During these times, lean on Sirius and Remus. They are your family now."

Harry's mum wrote, "If you are reading this, then the enchantment which we placed on you worked, and we are no longer with you. You have hard times ahead of you. If the prophesies are true, you are destined to carry a heavy load of responsibility for the world. I have wished and prayed that this burden be lifted from your shoulders. It is far too much to place on a boy so little and so young. You will be a great wizard Harry. Should something happen to Sirius, I have given instructions that you are to be left with Frank and Alice Longbottom. Under no condition should you visit or stay with my sister Petunia and her husband, Vernon.

As far as the prophesies go, just ignore them, and follow your heart. What really counts is you, and your life. All I ask is that you take a wife, have children and grow old with them. If you are anything like your dad, the burdens of others will weigh heavy on your heart. Work hard, focus and fight when necessary, but take some timeout for yourself. Have faith to believe in people and things you can't see, but know. Hold onto hope in your future and the success of your fight. In everything you do, every spell you cast, and every fight that you fight, do it with love. I do and always will love you. Make us proud."

Harry swallowed the lump that built in his throat, and dabbed at the unshed tear. He turned towards, Ragnok and asked him, "Ragnok, what do you foresee would happen to goblins, should us wizards fail to defeat Lord Voldemort?"

Ragnok considered the question before answering, "Goblins will have many battles with the Voldemort and his dark forces, but eventually, we will be defeated. When that happens, every Goblin will be hunted down and killed."

Harry asked, "Would it be more profitable if we fight together to assure our victory? If our death would mean your eventual death, would you fight with us in our battle?"

Ragnok was shocked, but not entirely surprised. He replied to Harry, "I personally would carry my sword into battle with you. I will bring this up to the King of the Goblins to see if he would commit his army to your command."

"What are your feelings about Dirk Cresswell?" Harry asked.

Ragnok grimaced, and then said, "He is more considerate than Cuthbert Mockridge, but his is still ineffective as the ministry he represents."

Harry nodded in agreement. "I like Mr. Cresswell. If he reports to both me and Minister Scrimgeour, would the king use him to facilitate negotiations? With my backing, the Ministry would be more apt to listen to him."

Ragnok now felt that he was out of his sphere of influence, but said, "The King would rather speak with you directly, but I understand that you have much to do. I'm sure he would see this as acceptable."

"Ragnok, you have entertained my questions, and I am very thankful." Handing him some papers, Harry continued, "These papers and letters are my will, orders of power of attorney, and orders of succession in case I'm incapacitated." Harry completed his business, and returned to the LB Ranch.

When he returned, he found Ron dressed in black, with Hermione fussing over the robe. She was tidying up the poor tailoring job Ron had done himself. Without her noticing, Harry used facial expressions and gestures to ask Ron if he had asked her yet. Ron just shook his head.

Hermione quickly turned around to look at Harry in question.

Harry just casually greeted her, "Good morning, Hermione."

Luna was entertained looking at this from across the room. Neville had his nose in a transfiguration book. Athena was perched on the back of a chair.

Also dressed in black, Arthur was in a comfortable arm chair listening to music on a portable CD player. Harry approached him, and asked, "Are the funerals today then?"

Irritated, Arthur just snapped, "Yes." He went back to listening.

Harry asked Hermione, "What are Mum and Dad doing?"

Hermione said, "They are out visiting with an insurance adjuster. They won't be back till dinner."

Molly and Ginny walked in from shopping. Ginny was wearing a beautiful black dress, and she was beaming with happiness. She did a twirl to show off the dress to Harry.

He said, "The dress looks lovely. Of course, on you, every dress looks pretty."

She loved his complements. She walked over to him and told him in her elation, "It is new! The dress, shoes, stockings, everything is new!" She practically skipped over to Luna where she whispered, "Mum also purchased me new knickers and bra."

Luna giggled at her antics. She knew that Ginny never received any new clothes before in her life.

Ron looked shocked, and complemented, "Ginny the dress looks very nice."

Molly and Arthur were slightly embarrassed by the scene she made over the clothes and how they were new. However, they were happy they could do this for her, none of the less.

Harry noticed something wrong and asked Ginny to turn around. When she did, Harry transfigured one of the legs of her hosiery from plain black to textured black. The textured leg had a star and moon pattern on it. This way it mismatched, but only slightly. Molly was appalled, but Ginny's happiness quelled her temper.

Ginny explained to her mom, "This is to honor Dobby, Mum."

Dobby appeared in the room at the mention of his name. Dobby noticed her mismatched hosiery and gave her a hug. "Mistress is too kind to Dobby," he said. His tennis ball eyes started to water.

After he released her, Ginny curtsied to him and said, "Serving you, Dobby, brings me happiness. If you keep on calling me Mistress, I will keep on honoring you."

Arthur turned red and briskly walked out of the room. This attachment to Dobby means more of her commitment to being a Potter some day soon.

Before he made it out of the room, Ginny kissed Harry and let it linger a bit long. She turned to her dad with a smirk on her face.

In the brief contact, Harry was brought up to speed with all that had happened in the morning. His ears were red with embarrassment at the situation.

Hermione assumed that Ginny shared a sexual thought with him to cause such embarrassment. Ron thought that kissing in front of his parents was the cause.

Harry didn't want to talk about it. He changed the subject, "Congratulations on your OWL's. Have you decided on your classes for the fall?"

Ron asked, "How do you know about her OWL's?"

Even Neville popped his head out of his book to look up. He noticed that only Ron seemed to be puzzled by this. Luna and Hermione were just ignoring the question as if they knew something.

Ginny jumped into answer the question, "You know Ron, when you have a relationship as close as us, you can pick up on small things like that."

Hermione wanted to say something sarcastic about Lavender, but she just bit her tongue.

Ginny turned to Harry, and asked, "Are we even going back to school?"

Molly looked up and screamed, "What do you mean young lady? Of course you are going back to school. The same with you, Harry. Don't you two start contemplating doing what the twins did." No answer from the two of them alarmed Mrs. Weasley greatly.

Ginny looked at Harry and thought, 'I'm sorry I asked.' Ginny answered out loud, "Transfiguration, Charms, Potions, Herbology, and Care for Magical Creatures."

Luna asked, "No Defense Against the Dark Arts?"

Ginny told her, "I'm already learning DADA from Harry. I'll still take my NEWT for it at the end of the seventh year."

They all sat down and enjoyed the lunch which Dobby made. Neville, Harry and Ron left to the ministry. The Weasleys left for the funerals. Ron told them that he would catch up with them after his testing was completed. Hermione and Luna went off shopping at the bookstore.

Neville and Ron went first with their Apparition testing. Something seemed a bit off about the tester. Harry intentionally went last. He Apparated across the room; then to a place in a picture; lastly, to a set of coordinates. When he arrived at the coordinates, he immediately had to dive for the ground. Two spells had just missed him. He quickly looked around. There are eight Death Eaters hidden behind objects around him.

Harry cast a fog spell so dense that he was able to quickly and silently slip around and capture them. When he was done, he took all of their wands, and returned to the tester.

The tester was just about to leave when Harry arrived, and Harry stunned him too. Harry walked over to the Department of Law Enforcement and brought back some Aurors. He gave the coordinates to the Aurors to retrieve the other captured Death Eaters. The senior Auror issued Harry's license to him.

When Harry returned to the waiting area where Neville was, Ron had already left for the funerals. Neville found this as his opportunity to talk frankly to Harry. He asked, "Harry, I'm not as stupid as everyone thinks. I can see that something unusual is going on between you and Ginny. How are you two performing telepathy? Why do the girls know?"

They talked for a while more while they shared some of their favorite places by Apparating here and there. Harry hated the sensation, but he had to admit, it was very convenient.

They went back to the LB Ranch where they practiced dueling. Harry noticed that Neville was extremely powerful now. They had to use marble dummies as test targets to prevent injuries. Many of their spells seemed to be unstoppable by their simple shields.

When they became tired, they tried the first step towards Animagus training; finding their inner animal. Harry was the first to figure it out. He used Legilimency and an advanced healer spell called Menscontrolus at the same time to help guide Neville to do it himself. The Menscontrolus Spell was a weak form of the Imperius Curse. The main difference was that Menscontrolus Spell was easy to overcome and thus was only useful when a patient was unconscious or semi-conscious.

As dinner approached, everyone started to trickle in. Tonks, Remus, Luna, Hermione, Emma, Dan, and then finally the Weasleys showed up.

As they walked in, Molly said to Ginny, "It was a funeral. You are not supposed to look happy."

Ginny said, "I can't help but feel happy. I'm wearing a new clean dress for the first time in my life."

Arthur said, "It's fine Molly. Her cheerfulness rubbed off on the others."

As they were nearing the end of the meal, Arthur told Ginny, "You need to get packed up, we're leaving tonight."

Outraged, Ginny said, "No, What is this all about Dad? We don't have to leave."

Equally tempered, Arthur said, "Fine, you want to know? It is the clock."

Ginny blanched. Her already pale freckled skin took on a ghostly white color. In a panic, she glanced over at Harry for a reaction.

Arthur continued, "It was missing Tuesday from the wall when I got home. Do you know where I found it?" From her reaction, he knew she was guilty.

Ginny replied, "In my closet?" She was clearly uncomfortable and embarrassed. Harry was giving her a puzzled look.

Arthur kept on, "It look like the clock is working properly now. All of the hands were at a different place, except for yours. Only Ginny's hand was on "In mortal peril." My hand was on "You're late."

Molly fumed as she listened. She already heard about it from Arthur, but hearing it again brought back her anger and disappointment.

"Ginny, you are taking this relationship with Harry too serious and too fast! It is because of him that you are still in danger. We must take you from this place. You must leave him," Arthur demanded. He added, "You knew the danger. That is why you hid the clock from us."

Ginny was practically in tears when she replied, "I didn't hide it from you. I hid it from Harry." She gave Harry a quick sad look, before returning her eyes to the table. She continued, "I was afraid that Harry would try to leave me again if he knew that the rest of the family was safe except for me and the twins. I guess after Tuesday morning, they too must be safe now." Ginny was giving Harry a pleading look.

Harry understood. It was the clock that made everything clear for him. Now it was back to that Ginny was in danger alone and probably because he loves her. Harry said, "Mr. Weasley, she will still be in danger if you leave. The main problem is that I love your daughter. The Death Eaters already know it. I can't fall in love with anyone else. She will always be a target because of me."

Ginny's eyes softened from his statement of support and love. He just told her parents that he loved her. She thought to herself, 'What is next? Is he going to ask permission to take my hand in marriage?'

Arthur's anger wasn't changing. He said, "Molly and I love our daughter too much to place her in this danger. It is the rush of this long term relationship that is cementing her into her doom. She is only 15! She is our baby."

Harry rebutted, "I love her too. I tried to push her away a month ago, because of this. It didn't work then, it won't work now. Our separation just makes us weaker and more vulnerable. We have no more choice but to stay close. We need each other's strength now, more than ever."

Molly said, "I can't see one of my children die because I didn't do something. Ginny, you must go get packed! Don't worry dear, there will be other men."

Ginny could not believe her ears. She did get up, but it was not to go and pack. She walked around and stood behind Harry who was still seated in his chair. She placed her hands on his shoulders, allowing her forefinger to touch his neck. After Harry gave her some re-assuring thoughts, Ginny's composure changed from fear to elation. With a big smile, she hugged Harry from behind.

Molly asked, "OK, what is going on here?"

Ginny replied, "Fine we'll play it your way, but don't expect me to stay around for long."

Molly and Arthur were fuming mad. They knew that Harry some how communicated to her a kidnapping conspiracy. Molly heatedly asked, "What do you think you are doing?" looking at Harry.

Harry explained, "I just promised to rescue my Rapunzel from her tower, and elope with her. It would mean estrangement from your family, but she agreed."

Arthur immediately countered, "She is underage. She can't marry until she is of age, another year from now."

Ginny informed them, "Actually you're wrong. In Muggle Scotland, we can marry at 16 without parental consent. The ministry only prevents underage marriage in the magical world, not the Muggle world. Once we are married, the ministry will accept it."

Molly and Arthur were puzzled. They looked over to Dan and Emma for confirmation. Emma was looking at their new son with a mixture of pride and apprehension. Dan caught his questioning look and nudged Emma. Like Hermione, Emma was the real brains of the family. Emma looked at Arthur and just nodded, acknowledging that her future daughter-in-law was correct.

Ginny continued, "This leaves you with a choice. A) You take me home and lock me away. I will escape as soon as wedding chapel arrangements have been made; drop out of school; and estrange myself from you. OR B) You allow me to live close to Harry; Let us pace our relationship at our own pace; I will continue my education; And I will remain true to my family. Your choice."

Arthur said, "I feel like you give me no choice." He looked at Molly.

She continued, "Ginny, you can stay. We will give you our blessing. Harry has saved us all from 'In Mortal Peril' once. Perhaps he can do it again for you. Breaking your heart and forcing you to leave us forever would be nearly as bad as your death. I can't have another estrangement like Percy in our family."

Emma went up to Harry and asked him, "Harry, can we talk to you in our room?"

Harry said, "Yes Mum, in just a moment."

Harry was going to talk with Ginny, when he noticed Remus march out of the room in a rage. Harry gestured to everyone to wait, and raced after Remus.

Harry found Remus outside in the yard leaning against the brick grille.

Remus saw him and said, "Harry, I'm leaving."

Harry was confused. What did he do? Angry at this abandonment, he asked, "Is that it? You're just going to give up on me? Don't you understand? I need you now. Dad and Sirius died before they left me. You can't just abandon me … Oh, you can, just like you did Tonks."

Trying to be a man, he worked hard to fight his tears. Harry continued, "Someone who I strongly love told me once, 'During these dark times, it is important that we keep the ones we love close.' Remus, I need you."

Remus was impressed that Harry used his own words against him, but that was not it. He told Harry, "You have your replacement guardian, and now you have your replacement father and mother. You don't need me anymore."

"Remus, if it wasn't for your little furry problem, I would have imposed upon you to be my guardian and godfather. It is just the ministry would have used it against me. That doesn't mean I don't need you or your advice. Today, I received letters left to me by Sirius and Dad which state that I should depend on you to be there for me. Are you going to turn your back on the wishes of your best friends? When I was just a baby, I had parents, but I still needed you. You were there for me. When I was 13 I had the support of the Weasleys, but I still needed you. Again, you were there for me. Just earlier this summer, Hermione was my guardian, but I still needed you. You and Tonks were there for me. You don't have to have a parental title to fill the role you're playing in my life. Please stay and help me."

Remus asked Harry, "Why are you replacing Lily and James with them? How could you?"

Harry understood. He spoke softly as he replied, "It's not Mom's fault; It's not Dad's fault; It's not Sirius' fault; It's not your fault I grew up without a mother and a father, and without love. Dumbledore was just trying to do his best to protect me by placing me at my aunt and uncle's house instead of the Longbottom's. It was my aunt and uncle who chose not to love me as a son. Because of that, I grew up wishing for the love of a parent. Ever since I have met them, they have shown me nothing but love. I know that Mum and Dad would be happy for me. I can't replace them, but I can add more to my life. Besides, would you like the Dursleys to continue to have control of my life? "

Harry's voice returned to normal level as he gestured around him. He said, "Don't you see what I'm doing? I'm building my life to what it will be after I defeat Voldemort. I am creating family." Gesturing back to the building, he said, "In there, I have three of the closest friends anyone could ask for; an adoptive sister, an adoptive mother and father, future in-laws, and a wife. This wife will someday bear me children. Everyone in that building are the ones who I will want to spend all of my Christmases and Holiday gatherings with. My children will need grandparents, and they will need their Uncle Remus. An Auntie Tonks would be nice if you get busy."

"I have to do this. I have no choice but to face the most feared wizard in the whole world. I need to have a future to fight for. I need this future to live for. This is my strength, and you are a part of it. Please remain a part of my family, stay."

Remus saw the big picture and how he almost threw it all away. It was true. In that building he had what everyone wants, he had belonging. He had a family. It hurt him when Harry said it, but he was right. This was just a repeat of what he did with Tonks, just a year earlier. Remus hugged Harry and said, "You are right Harry, I'm sorry. You are and always will be my godson at heart. I was there from the time you were born till the time they took you to the Dursleys. I will be here for you from now on. I promise. Let's go inside."

As they turned towards the door, they saw the door open. The family inside seemed quiet and emotional. Harry felt relieved that he was able to stay off Remus's departure, but he still felt shaken up inside. He needed his comfort that he found only in one person. Harry didn't even need to ask. She found him first and held him close. The floral fragrance of her red hair, and her soothing thoughts brought him comfort again.

Ginny whispered, "I'm not you wife yet."

Harry replied in the same quiet tone, "I told you. You are in my heart. I don't need a ceremony, vows, marriage license, or rings. In my heart, you will always be my wife. If you don't believe me, look how everyone treats you. Look at Dobby. You will find that you are already partially Mrs. Potter."

Ginny whispered, "What about the 'I do's'?"

Harry whispered back, "I do."

Ginny could not help but smile. She knew that this was nothing official or recognized past the two of them, but still it was his promise. Was she ready to make the same? She searched her heart for the answer. She whispered back, "I do."

In the happiness of their embrace they did not notice the short release of magic which shot out from them, but everyone else did. Not hearing the discussion between them, no one understood why.

Harry left to have a talk with his mum. His mum invited him into her room. After he closed the door, he placed a silencing charm on the room.

Emma told him, "Harry, you know that you are scary sometimes? As a parent of a daughter, I know that you are their worse nightmare. In two months, you are hearing wedding bells. You should know that you sound like a psychotic freak.

On the other hand, there is no argument that the two of you love each other enough to be married. However you are doing it, this mind link thing you have going on is also a cause of this accelerated intimacy. I support your argument for keeping Ginny close to you, but you must take your courtship slowly. Otherwise, people around you will question your motives, despite the maturity of emotions in your heart. I request that you wait until the two of you leave Hogwarts before you marry. Also, and more importantly, wait until you're married before having sex. If she loves you, she will wait. I guess I wouldn't be pressing this as much if you hadn't threatened to elope with her. By doing this, you will comfort everyone in her family, that you are not just using her to obtain relief from your hormonal rages."

Harry, not feeling comfortable with the discussion, did not give her eye contact, but just looked at the floor. He nodded affirmation when she was done.

"Dan, do you have anything to add? You know this should have been your Father/Son talk," Emma asked.

Dan answered, "No dear, you covered everything perfectly all the way down to the 'psychotic freak' bit."

Emma turned to Harry and said, "Alright, go talk to Molly and Arthur before they pack and run. Not unless that is what you want them to do."

Harry shook himself out of his stupor. Never as an adult, did he think that his parents would reprimand him to this point. They did not make him feel bad. They did not even hit him. On the contrary, she said that she supported his efforts fundamentally. He wondered, 'Was this what it was like to have a loving parent?'

Harry said, "No, that isn't what I want. I'll go talk to them. Thanks Mum, Dad." He gave Emma a hug before he left.

When he was gone, she asked Dan, "That went way too easy. Did we do that right?"

In Molly and Arthur's room, they were busy stowing the last of their things when they heard a knock at the door. Arthur said, "Come in."

Harry opened the door, then turned and closed it behind him. Again, he cast a silencing charm on the walls. Harry said, "Please don't leave. We need to just talk."

Arthur was embarrassed at what just transpired after dinner. He replied, "Fine, what about."

Harry said, "I know that ever since I have dated your daughter, I am no longer a part of your family like a son. That is fine with me, because I would rather chance our relationship to be someday considered your son-in-law instead. The relationship we have is now precariously based on Ginny rather than Ron. As long as we work together to have a mutual effort to love and protect her, we should be able to maintain a close relationship. Mum told me how I came across as a 'psychotic freak,' and I'm sorry. I assure you, I'm not using Ginny for my own devices. Like you, I love her, and I need to protect her. We will wait until after we take our NEWT's before we get married. There is not a doubt in my heart, that I won't marry her."

Showing them the Monomens charm necklace, Harry said, "This is a Monomens charm. It is allowing Ginny and I to share sensory feelings, emotive feelings, and thoughts with just a touch. Apparently, she somehow got this impression that I lock all of my feelings inside, so she gave this to me for my birthday."

This gave Molly and Arthur a chuckle to soften the tension.

Harry told them, "I'm also worried about you. I don't think it would be safe to stay at the Burrow anymore. They tried to attack once, they will do it again, especially when they start to desperately search for me. I want you two to stay with us. There really are no conflicts of interest between us. We have the same goal, and that is to protect the Weasley family from harm."

Molly and Arthur agreed to stay. After a fierce hug from Molly, Harry made his way to the girl's room.

Hermione and Luna were interrogating Ginny about Harry. Ginny told them about what they said after Remus' discussion with him. Hermione got up and started to pace. Luna reiterated the details back to her for clarification.

Luna asked Ginny, "Did you notice the discharge of magic when you were holding him?"

Ginny shook her head, 'No.' She was completely ignorant of the magic.

Hermione explained, "I don't know if you are going to like this or not, but the magic discharge a result of a bond of promise. In other words, you are married Mrs. Potter."

Panic started to rise in her, Ginny said, "I can't be! There was no ceremony. I'm not even of age yet."

Calming her down, Hermione said, "It's fine Ginny, it was accidental magic. Of course it is not official, but you two have exchanged the fundamental promise of a marriage. In a ceremony or not, this is all that is required to occur in order to magically mark you as a married woman. There are so many different types of wedding ceremonies, but this promise is the common element which binds a couple together."

Ginny shook her head in disbelief. She said, "Mum is going to have a fit."

Luna noted, "She won't know unless you tell her."

Hermione suggested, "You and Harry could perform an annulment."

"No," Ginny said, "I won't ask that. It would only break his heart. Besides, in my heart, he is, and always will be my husband. Luna, you're right. Let's just keep this between the three of us. It won't actually change anything. No one will know. Anyways, what could happen?"

Not missing the chance to tease her, Hermione said, "Great, in just a week I have found myself a brother and a sister-in-law."

Luna serenely smiled, but said, "Something is going to go wrong from this."

There was a knock at the door. Hermione opened it up to allow Harry to enter.

Harry looked around, and asked, "How is it that I getting the feeling that you were talking about me?"

Ginny got up to take his hand.

Hermione asked, "Please, tell us all what you want to say. Don't talk behind our backs."

Harry and Ginny looked at each other, and he nodded. He said, "Mum told me how the people around me could perceive ulterior motives from my unnaturally abrupt courtship. To show honor to Ginny and her family, we have to wait until we complete schooling before we get married."

Ginny's ears went pink, and she cast her eyes to the floor.

Harry continued as if he didn't notice, "Mum also said, that it is now imperative that we not have sex until were married, or it would look like I'm only interested in using Ginny for my own physical needs."

Harry looked back to Ginny, and told her, "I have patched thinks up with your Mum and Dad. They're going to continue to stay with us. I just hope I don't do anything else which would compromise their trust."

Hermione and Luna nervously shifted their eyes away after he said that.

Unsure about everyone's reaction, Harry pulled Ginny close and wrapped her in his arms. He kissed her goodnight, before returning to his own room.

When he was gone, Luna said, "That really sucks. You're married, and you can't even have sex."

Hermione said, "Well, yes, you are right, but imagine their reaction when they eventually notice the marriage bond. Ginny, are you sure you don't want to annul the covenant?"

Ginny just quietly said, "Yes, I'm sure," before she started in with her Occlumency exercises.

When Harry got to his room, Neville told him that Ron knows about the Monomens. Ron turned to Harry and asked, "Why didn't you tell me? Am I not your best mate?"

Harry answered, "Do you feel comfortable knowing that I am seeing into your sister's mind, knowing that it includes all of her private moments?"

Ron said, "Definitely not. It sounds like mental rape."

Harry countered, "It is not rape when we are both willingly sharing the thoughts together. Oh, that came out wrong. Many of the thoughts which we share are uncontrolled, especially when we dream. However, the benefits outweigh the embarrassment. We are definitely closer now."

Ron said, "Yeah, maybe too close, and too quickly."

Harry and Neville started their Occlumency exercises. Ron grudgingly joined them.

When Ron got up in the morning, Harry and Neville were already downstairs working on their Tai Chi exercises. Luna was watching them, while eating a biscuit. Hermione and Ginny were visiting with Remus and Tonks in the kitchen, while Dobby prepared a light breakfast for everyone.

Ron asked Dobby, "Why are we only having a cold breakfast today?" He clearly wanted a more filling breakfast.

Dobby's ears drooped in embarrassment.

Ginny's temper peaked, "Ron, don't you ever question Dobby again. We need Dobby to join us today, rather than cleaning up after a large meal. Would you rather stay behind and do the dishes?"

Harry heard the commotion from the barn, and entered the room.

Ginny was comforting Dobby, and telling him he was a good house elf. Clearly, the years of working for the Malfoys had made him sensitive to disappointment.

Remus was curious and asked, "Where are you going today?"

Harry answered, "There are many things in the vaults at Gringotts which we should be looking at. All of us are going there to go through them. If we have time, we are going to tour all of the residential properties which were left to me. Neville wants to reset all of the wards and add new ones. Do you and Tonks want to join us?"

Tonks said, "I'm sorry, I have to work today. We can meet you for lunch at the Black Candle Restaurant in Diagon Alley if you like?"

Harry agreed to meeting up for lunch. Neville grumbled his disapproval, but said he would make the arrangements.

Remus declined the offer to join them as well. He said he would be there for lunch, as if Tonks just turned their lunch date into family outing.

Tonks and Remus left, but before everyone else went to the bank, Harry told his Mum, Dad, Arthur, and Molly where they were going. He gave Molly and his mum a big hug before they left.

Taking Luna's hand, Neville Apparated to Diagon Alley with the others. Ginny went tandem with Harry. The six of them proceeded up the alley to Gringotts Bank. It was still fairly early, so the only people around in the alley were the customers waiting in the long line outside the bank. Harry directed everyone to ignore the line, and walked up to guard at one of the doors at the other end. The guard took notice who they were, and opened the door for them.

Ginny knew that Harry was in disguise again, and the acknowledgement didn't register on the Goblin guard's face until he was actually looking at Ginny. This was puzzling to her.

Harry led them to the back of the bank to the desk. Harry greeted the goblin saying, "A profitable morning to you Account Manager Baggot. This is my Lady, my sister Miss Granger, my friend and security advisor Mr. Longbottom, my friends Mr. Weasley, and Miss Lovegood. We have an appointment to search through some vaults and properties today. Is Griphook working?" Harry finished with a half bow.

Knowing proper goblin etiquette from Harry, Ginny did a half curtsy, and held it till Baggot addressed her. Ginny never looked directly at him in the eye, because she was a female, and she wasn't invited to address him.

Baggot was pleased, this was the second time he met this wizard, and his was already being treated with respect. Baggot greeted them, "Lord and Lady Black, it is a pleasure to serve you again. Griphook will be with you shortly."

Ginny took Harry's hand and gave him a smile. She figured it out the night before. All the names which her divination game revealed to her somehow described the same man. It made sense that he could be Lord Black, since his godfather was Sirius Black. Harry's insistence on calling her 'his Lady' implied that she was Lady Black, and Baggot took it.

Griphook arrived two minutes later. Harry mentioned that his house elf would be joining him. Griphook objected saying that house elves and other servants are not allowed in the vaults. Harry waved his objection off saying, his house elf, Dobby was different. Harry called for Dobby.

Dobby arrived with a pop. The many goblins around were disconcerted by his presence but did not dare object since it was Lord Black's elf.

Griphook again kicked some common customers out of a trolley and ushered them all onto the trolley. Dobby was elated at the roller-coaster like ride the trolley gave.

When they arrived at the first vault, Harry addressed Hermione, Ginny and Dobby, "This is the smallest vault which everyone knows I have. It only has fifteen thousand six hundred and twenty-one Galleons in it."

Ron's mouth dropped open and thought, 'Only fifteen thousand six hundred and twenty-one Galleons?'

Harry rose up a key in his hand and said, "This is the key to this vault." He motioned to Griphook to go on to the next stop.

They arrived at the vault which used to belong to Dumbledore. Everyone got out, and Harry gave a different key to Griphook to open this one up. Again, Harry addressed only Hermione, Ginny and Dobby, "This vault holds the inheritance I received from Dumbledore."

Griphook opened the door, and everyone entered and looked around. Griphook was astonished to see that Dobby was able to walk right into the vault.

While Harry was looking around for any magical items like a pensive, everyone else was looking through the books to see if they could find anything which would help them. They found a few books of interest, but nothing else. Harry noticed Hermione looking adoringly at a raggedy old copy of Hogwarts A History. Harry collected up the remaining books and shrunk them into his pocket.

At the next vault, something surprising happened. As everyone was filing out of the trolley, the vault door opened up when Ginny approached it. Unsurprised by the behavior of the door, Harry ushered everyone in hoping to avoid any questions. Hermione and Luna exchanged knowing looks.

Harry introduced the vault as the Potter family vault. They all split up again looking around. This time, they had a whole chest full of items which they wanted to take back, including a pensive. Dobby was very helpful. They found that if they were looking for something specific, Dobby could find it quickly. Harry made copies of many of the documents found in this vault.

At the next Black family vault, Harry insisted that there was nothing in there of interest, only Galleons. At the Second Black family vault, Harry collected up some training swords and some jewelry.

The last vault was where the real find was. Luna was going through all of the paperwork, when she asked, "Who would call their son Regulas Alfric Black?" Ron, Hermione, Harry and Ginny all ran over to look. Sure enough, Luna found him.

Harry asked Dobby, "Can you find us a gold locket on a chain?"

Ten minutes later, Dobby reported back to Harry, "Is this what you are looking for?" In his hand was the locket. The Horcrux with the 'S' scripted on the top. Harry asked, "Did you find this in anything. Where there any notes or papers with it?"

Dobby took him to where he found it, but there was no helpful information with it. Harry did find a pouch which he placed it in. There were other things, but Harry noticed Neville admiring one of the swords as if he was drawn to it. Using his magic, Harry surmised that the sword was magical, but in a good way. He suggested to Neville to take it.

Neville first refused, but relented. He shrunk the sword and stowed it into his pocket.

Ginny had a stack of documents which she wanted Harry to make copies to take back. Ginny agreed that leaving the originals in the vault was a good idea. Hermione shrunk the stack of papers and placed them with the books in the trunk. Harry asked Dobby to take the trunk back to his room where they were staying. Again, Griphook was astonished when Dobby was able to pop out and back into the vault. Dobby was going to stay at the house, but he didn't want to miss the ride back to the lobby on the trolley.

When they were all done, Neville guided them over to the Black Candle where they were going to meet Remus and Tonks. When they were being seated in a private room in the back of the restaurant, the manager noted that Dobby was with them. He said, "We don't serve them here," pointing to Dobby.

Harry replied, "This house elf is different, you will serve him."

This manager did not like being told what to do. "You will have him leave, or you will leave!"

Ginny placed her hand on Harry's arm telling him that she had this covered.

Ginny told the manager, "Sir, we are sorry, but we realize you don't know who you are talking to."

The manager's anger started to rise. "Listen you insolent girl. I don't care if he has a scar on his forehead. He is not going to desecrate my establishment by bringing that rift raft with him."

Ginny's voice rose to match his tone, "This is Lord Black, and you will not raise your voice to me either!" Ginny's eyes were burning with fury. To prove her point, Ginny grabbed Harry's right hand to show him his signet ring.

The manager turned white as a ghost. His demeanor changed immediately as he became excessively accommodative. The lunch was wonderful, and the service was top notch. Even Dobby enjoyed his meal.

It was during the meal, Ginny finally explained, "Harry owns this restaurant. You don't think that it is just a coincident that it is named 'the Black Candle Restaurant' do you? Besides, it was on one of papers which I going through in the vault."

Tonks slapped her forehead in recollection. "I forgot. You're right. This is one of the businesses he now owns."

In the afternoon, Griphook took them to each of the properties and transferred over the wards, it took about forty minutes at each place, but Neville set up new wards on all of the properties.

Testing the wards himself, Harry was pleased that they were the strongest wards he had ever felt besides those at Hogwarts.

At Grimmauld place, Harry noticed that the portrait of Mrs. Black was down, and put away. Dobby had been very busy. The house looked entirely different. It now looks open warm and inviting. There were no signs which signified that a Death Eater found this place.

Later on at the Black Country Estate, they found another large home with stables. Like the Grimmauld place, the house was run down, and the attending house elves were insulting and complacent. They did a quick search of the house, but nothing of interest turned up. Harry wanted to give the elves clothes, but Hermione and Ginny may have had a better idea of how to handle them. Their names were Knarlly, Stinger, and Annibal.

The Mediterranean Villa was not maintained by an elf, but it looked in better condition. The Villa had a yacht, and a beach.

In Barbados, the bungalow was a bit small, but an Enlargement Charm could be used to add the room they needed. Just a short walk from the beach, the location definitely seemed like a nice piece of tropical paradise.

When they arrived at Godric's Hollow, the existing Fidelius Charm seemed to do the trick, but Neville insisted on replacing it.

Ginny was pleased that Lily was about the same size and shape she was. Only a little bit of encouragement was required for her to collect some of her favorites from the wardrobe. Ginny was pleased that she had some nice dresses and robes to wear.

The big surprise was Potter Mansion. The end of road out of Hogsmeade was really the entrance gate to the property. The Mansion was really that, a Mansion. Everything was beautiful and clean. The gardens were kept up with care. It was a staff of nine house elves who were responsible for the condition of the house. When she walked in the main hall of the mansion, the elves called Ginny 'Mistress' and introduced themselves to her. From the door, Harry was beaming with pride. Harry and Ginny quickly learned their names: Pepper, Tweedle, Squirt, Pop, Doddie, Flora, Mopsy, Wriggle, and the head elf, Tailspin. Dobby was introduced to them as one of their masters. Tailspin especially was uncomfortable with this.

The last place they visited was the Black Hunting Cabin. They found out that apart of the Black Estate was 200 acres of the Forbidden Forest. Near the edge of the forest, closest to the Muggle village, was the large cabin. The outside the cabin had many statues of humans and magical creatures. The uniform look of terror brought back memories of five years ago.

Harry commanded everyone to stay together. He cast the same fog spell he did the day before when fighting the Death Eaters. The whole glade where the cabin was filled with a fog so dense, it was difficult to see past an arm's length.

Harry switched between ultraviolet vision and infrared. The rest of his senses were on high alert. He creped up to the door and opened it. In the dark of the cabin, he again cast the fog spell. He sensed the presence of a beast.

He couldn't see any heat signatures inside, but he knew it was there. It was there waiting for him. He silently cast a smoke spell to fill the room. He moved closer to the fire place. Starting with the fireplace, he cast a heating charm on it, and then the adjacent wall. He kept on working on the walls and ceiling till. There it was. The cold blooded creature didn't show up with his infrared vision, because it was the same temperature as everything else in the room. The creature's body temperature changed at a different pace as the wall making it standout in the contrast.

The creature was a Gorgon like Medusa. He thought that they were mythical, but here one was. The poisonous snakes on her head were moving around. Part of the story was that you're not supposed to look into the eyes of the Medusa. Doing so would immediately turn you to stone. She was slowly stalking him waiting for her time to strike.

Harry did not waste any time. Before it could get any closer, he cast the most powerful freezing charm he could, "Petrificus Totalus." He quickly stepped away from where he cast it to search for the Medusa again. He found it frozen. He conjured a large burlap bag and covered its face. He then cast a new spell he learned out of the medical texts, "Deanimus."

This curse worked like a Stupefy spell, but the Ennervate spell would not work to reverse it unless the caster was more powerful. Unlike the standard stunner, this spell was indefinite. If a human was hit, she or he would die from starvation if they were not revived. No matter how powerful the witch or wizard, the counter spell, Animus would always work to revive them. Harry thought that this would work well when battling, but it would only work the first time. If the enemy ever heard of the counter curse, it would then be just as good as using a standard stunner.

Harry cleared the air of the smoke and fog. He lit a few candles and started a fire in the fireplace. Once outside, he signaled everyone an all clear and dispelled the fog from the glade.

Ginny ran up to him, hit in the arm, and hugged him tight. She said, "Don't ever do anything like that again. I was so worried."

Neville ran in to secure the rest of the building. Looking at creature on the floor he asked, "What is that?"

Luna said, "It is a Gorgon?"

Hermione was pleased she was actually coming up with the same conclusion herself.

Ron walked into the cabin and took a look around. It was hideous. There were more frozen people and stuffed and mounted creatures on the wall. Above the fireplace were the heads of two children. Ron and Ginny ran out the door to throw up.

Hermione was looking around when she saw something which could help. "Harry!" she called out. Harry came over and saw what she was pointing to. It was a four liter jug of Mandrake Juice. The magical signature over it suggested that it was under a Stasis Spell of some sort.

Harry asked her, "It's under a stasis spell. How much do we give to everyone?"

Hermione said, about 100 milliliters per individual. Hermione started to treat the paralyzed people and creatures in the room. One-by-one they came around. Most of them have been there for more than 10 years. All of them had their stories. Ron and Hermione walked all of the Muggles to the village near by.

Ginny's compassion fell on a unicorn which she nursed some of the mandrake juice into its mouth. It took two doses, but it came back to life. After nuzzling a thank you to her, he pranced back into the forest.

When the Centaur came around, he introduced himself as Delgog. He promised Harry a life debt which Harry tried to deny. Delgog also went back into the forest to join his fold.

With the mandrake juice, they were able to revive all of the petrified creatures and people. Harry called for Dobby and Tailspin to clean up the cabin and remove the stuffed animal and people trophies from the building. When the cleaning was nearly complete, they found a desk with some notes on Horcruxes, locations and how to destroy them. Apparently, Regulus was using this cabin as his hideout. The Gorgon would have been a perfect defense from any intruder.

Harry destroyed the Gorgon by burning her in a bonfire with the trophies. Neville put up the new wards.

They all got back to the LB Ranch late, and received an ear full from the parents for not telling them where they were.

Before everyone went to sleep, Harry gathered Neville, Ron, Luna, Hermione, and Ginny together to talk. Now that they had made some progress towards their list of goals, it was time to review the list. Luna took on the responsibility of studying the Horcruxes and notes.

Hermione was going to continue her efforts in finding the cure with the Belbys. They were expected to give their demonstration to Harry in two days.

Neville was going to prepare to move them to a different location after the week was over. He did not want to keep everyone at the same place for too long.

Ron was going to continue his study on battle strategy, but would also start building a network of allies.

Ginny was going to tackle some domestic issues, like dealing with Knarlly, Stinger, and Annibal. Of the companies which Harry held a controlling interest, Ginny was going to make sure that they were supporting him. She was also going to get together with Fleur to make sure that their tenants did not need assistance getting back on their feet.

Harry was going to follow up with the Belbys, and obtain the potions book for Mr. Worple. He also needed to report into the ministry for his three hours of training.

Shifting from the list and responsibilities portion of the meeting, he pulled out four bags of Galleons and gave them out to Ron, Hermione, Neville and Luna. Harry had to deal with Luna's refusal to accept the stipends, but she relented to his logic.

As the meeting was breaking up, Ginny asked Harry, "Am I not doing enough to be given a stipends?" She was trying hard to not sound greedy, nor show her hurt.

Harry pulled her close and wrapped his arms around her. He whispered to her, "I paid them out of our vaults. If you didn't notice, you have full access to take from our property as much as you like. Feel free to spend what you like on what ever you want or need."

Ginny objected, "Harry I can't. Everyone is treating me as your wife by mistake. I would be taking advantage of you if I spent your money. Besides, I never had that kind of money to spend."

He told her, "You were already given full legal access to the accounts as Ginevra Molly Weasley. I need your help managing this, the elves, the properties, and the lives our properties touch. This all will be yours one way or another. I know that it is a culture shock for you, but you need to start getting use to it. Please take joint ownership of this money and property. I want you to be Lady Black. It is now time for you to play the role."

This really made her feel bad. She just came to him to complain about a small bag of gold, and he gave her the estate. She never seriously considered what it would be like to have that much money. Her life of scraping by was gone. No more life of wants and needs. Instead, she had so much; it became a burden of management and using it to help others.

That was what she was going to do. If she had been given the wealth of the title, she would take on the civic responsibility of the title. Harry was asking for her help in managing this part of his life, and then she was going to do it in a way which reflects their character. She was going to use their money and influence to make people's lives better.