Chapter Five
Birthday Wishes
Harry and Ron started training Neville the day of the interview. They all agreed since they couldn't have as much fun as they wanted, they should all at least do something constructive. Hermione put up quite a strong fight for them to do their homework which was the first rejected idea. They all agreed that it would be okay to finish it later, as Neville needed to catch up with the running and physical exercise so badly.
"Hermione, what good will it do to have all our homework finished if we loose Neville the first time we have to run away from a battle!" Serena said seriously.
"Honestly, Mione, you could show a little compassion for the poor bloke. After all, he almost got nabbed by those wimps from the Ministry." Harry said, agreeing with Serena.
"Well, if you would just remember we're not at school, and that playing pranks on muggles is a serious offense, then he wouldn't have had to run, would he?" Hermione countered.
"I did what I did for the whole of the group." Harry said. "Everyone looked so down that morning, I had to do something to lift their spirits!"
"Agreed!" The others said in unison.
"See, Mione, it had a good purpose behind it." Harry said smiling.
"Fine, but don't blame me if you all fail!" Hermione said in a huff.
"Have we ever?" Ron asked smiling.
"I should say not!" Harry said.
"We are at the head of our year and all." Ginny said, also smiling.
"Besides, we can tutor the boys if they get too far gone." Serena said. "Never mind, we would need to start now and work till we're a hundred then."
"I object!" Harry said.
"Me too!" Ron said.
"Ron, you have no place to talk!" Ginny said. "You are the dumbest of the lot of us!"
"That still leaves me smarter than all but four people!" Ron said.
"The four that matter at that!" Serena said smiling.
"Leave Ron be." Harry said. "I'm not much brighter than him, and that's saying something!"
"Hey!" Ron said.
This went on for an hour before they all broke down and started training. Neville was working with Ginny at most times, while Serena helped Harry. Ron and Hermione were busy learning other things that they were told to keep secret until they perfected it. So it seemed that everyone was studying their art well, trying to succeed as quickly as possible.
Harry had almost forgotten his birthday was appearing around the corner. He was now worried how he was going to manage his new tradition of getting everyone presents when they weren't supposed to leave unless necessary. Harry talked to Remus the Sunday before his birthday was too come to try and make a plan.
Once he finally got everything set, he had to manage a way to convince the Marauders (which now included Neville for the most part) about the plan he had. He had made them a promise on the train that they would be free for the summer of all people watching them, and now he was going to ask them to allow him to break his promise so they could enjoy a day in the wizard world.
He decided the best time was after dinner, when everyone was complimenting Serena, who had finally cooked an entire meal without burning anything. She kept remarking how fit she was for muggle life. Everyone seemed happy and Harry just hoped this would be the way they stayed throughout his new idea.
"Guys, I need to talk to you." Harry said.
"So, talk." Serena said.
"I want to go to Diagon Alley again for my birthday." Harry said quietly, waiting for someone to argue.
"Well, sounds like fun to me, mate." Ron said.
"Aside from a small accident I had a great time!" Serena said smiling. "No kissing Harry in the bookstore this year, Gin!"
"Aw, and I was so looking forward to that becoming a tradition!" Ginny said jokingly.
"No worries anyway, we got no one to watch us!" Ron said cheerfully.
"About that." Harry said.
"You DIDN'T!" Serena said loudly.
"I had to." Harry said.
"Why?" Serena asked loudly.
"Because I'm not as safe in the wizarding world as the muggle world!" Harry said, angrily. "I hate it as much as you, but I had no choice! I can't promise everyone can be safe!"
"Harry, do you really expect us to go to wizard London unprepared?" Serena asked.
"Wait, Harry, what did you do?" Hermione asked.
"If we go, the Order will be watching us." Harry said sadly. "Your Mum wanted to see us, as she thought it was rather a large laugh, till Gin tried to have her way with me in the bookstore." Harry said, grinning at Ginny. "Your parents wanted to see you too, Mione. Neville's Gran said she might come, though she knows Neville is fine, merely to celebrate my birthday with us. And Moony always looks forward to seeing us two, Serena."
"But Harry, this was supposed to be a summer free of all of them, and their rules!" Serena complained.
"It will be. It was something me and Moony set up. They will celebrate with us for dinner, which I talked Moony into having at the Leaky Cauldron, but Order members will be watching, and watching only, for the rest of the day. Moony said he might stay with us for a while though, as he will no longer have to take responsibility for me, and he expects to have a good time of with his friends." Harry said.
"Friends?" Serena asked.
"Yes, all of us. He said he will be there as a friend, and if we wanted, we could have the dinner at Grimmauld Place. I turned that down, for fear that they might try to get us to stay, saying 'only one night.' Me and you don't have to worry about that, but we are not the only ones to think of." Harry said.
"Well, if Moony is only going to be there as a friend, then I'm ok with it." Serena said.
"What about you four?" Harry asked.
"No one will try to make us stay?" Ginny asked.
"Moony's word." Harry replied.
"I'll be there." Ginny said.
"I'll go, as no one is forcing me to go anywhere." Neville said. "Gran seemed right happy to have me go. Saying no friends ever came in the summer."
"Sorry if I embarrassed you that day, Nev." Harry said. "That wasn't my intention, you know."
"I know. Glad you did, really. This has been the best summer I've ever had." Neville said smiling.
"Sorry, got off the subject." Harry said. "Ron, Hermione, it's up to you two."
"My Mum said I would have been allowed to stay if we had just asked. I'm free of worry, so I'll go." Hermione said. "Ron?"
"I guess I'll be going, but I'm not going without a wand." Ron said, smirking.
"No one leaves for Diagon Alley with me without a wand." Harry said seriously. "Call it extra security, if you will."
"Harry we will need to get them a second wand." Serena said.
"I know, and they will have them. Even Neville, whether he truly comes in with us or not." Harry said smiling. "Though the invitation is open to him since the day he ran with us. School will just be the official welcoming. Meaning Ginny might have to teach him the other trick of the trade."
"Really? He is!" Ginny said and hugged Neville. "Say yes! Don't be thick!"
"I guess I'm in." Neville said smiling.
"Good, now that that's settled. Guys take off your shirts." Harry said calmly.
"What are you on about now Harry?" Ron asked.
"Just trust me okay?" Harry said. Ron and Neville agreed, taking off their shirts.
"Woo! Strippers!" Serena yelled laughing.
"Stay away from them!" Ginny said. "You have one of your own!"
"Doesn't mean I can't admire others. You are welcome to admire Harry at any time!" Serena said, still laughing.
"You two, this is serious, alright." Harry said, looking from one to the other. They both nodded and all laughing stopped. "This might hurt a bit you two. Ready?"
"For what?" Ron asked.
"Ready." Neville said getting serious.
Harry sighed and closed his eyes for a second. Holding both hands out he opened his eyes and looked at everyone. Grinning, he flicked his wrist.
"AAAH!" Serena yelled clutching her thigh.
"OOOW!" Ginny yelled holding her shoulder.
Both of the other boys clutched their arms, their faces grim. Harry looked uncomfortable for a second, then grinned again. "Okay, only Hermione left. I can do this the nice way, or the bad way. Which would you prefer?" He said.
"How about the quick way?" Hermione said, grimacing.
"Fine. Lift the back of your shirt." Harry said seriously. She agreed. Harry flicked his wrist.
"DAMN!" Hermione said. She turned and faced Harry. "What did you do?"
"Well, good new is it will offer you better protection. Also, a little of the power I hold. I've learned a lot about ancient magic, and how to use it."
"What did you do?" Hermione asked again.
"I gave you all tattoos." Harry said smiling, then fell back into his chair, breathing heavily.
"What did you do to yourself?" Serena said, her eyes wide.
"Just used too much magic at once." Harry said. "Don't worry I won't pass out. That's why I've been practicing so much. The more I practice the more I can use."
"Why did you give us tattoos?" Ginny asked. "And how did me and Serena get them when everyone else had to take off their clothes."
"I don't know what Ron, Neville and Hermione look like under their clothes." Harry said quietly.
"Oh." Ginny said equally quiet.
"Sorry about the pain, guys. I never knew how to do that painlessly. Hurt like hell with all of mine." Harry said.
"How many do you have, Harry?" Ron asked.
Harry responded by removing his shirt. He had what looked like ancient runes and magic symbols covering the front part of his arms. They extended to his shoulders. On his chest was a tattoo that looked to be a design mixed between Celtic and tribal. Harry turned around and showed them his back. In between the tattoos stretching across his arms was one that looked more artistic than magical. It had a design with a gold and orange phoenix, a pure white wolf with black eyes, a large dog that had a red tint, a stag, and a panther.
"Neville an animal will form for you once you have learned that trick." Harry said, putting his shirt on again. "Though you wont see anything on your arm now. Once you have done it properly, it will hurt like hell for a moment again. I'll know of course, cause it will hurt a bit for me too."
"What are you talking about Harry?" Serena asked.
"Well if you could see your tattoo, you would see a white wolf with black eyes." Harry said. "I don't believe I need to go around the room do I?" Harry said easily. "Its a transference spell. The tattoos each give you something that I do already. Not so much that I still can't have my own fun, but enough to keep you safe." Harry looked at Ron, Hermione and Neville. "Once we get back to school I want you three to practice the shield spell we know. I want you to practice till its perfect. I know it will work."
"What can we do?" Ron asked, suddenly excited.
"I don't know." Harry said. "If it worked right, Serena and Ginny should be able to call up shields without a wand. All of you should be able to do wandless magic though."
"Can we move like you?" Neville asked.
"That's dark magic, Nev. Not a power of mine." Harry said.
"Dark magic!" Hermione said. "What are you doing using dark magic!"
"Protecting us, for one. I talk to Sirius using dark magic, and the spell I just cast was in the same book I found the spell for that." Harry said smiling. "It's not the magic that's dark, as Phineas says, but the intent of the one using it."
"Meaning its all fine and good so long as you are using it for a good reason?" Hermione said, aghast. "What was the purpose of this spell then? What good does it serve?"
"Originally, the spell was made for a wizard or witch to give their powers to their children when they died. A way of passing on the heritage. It was only deemed dark magic when wizards started using it to get power from others to become more powerful." Harry said. "It worked like this. You pass on the power to your children, forming a tattoo, it could be anything really, a face, a family name, whatever the wizard chose. The wizard possessed a similar tattoo, only with whatever he had given or was given through his life. When he died the power was spread equally over all who he gave the tattoo."
"So you mean when you die.." Serena said, stopping suddenly.
"Yes, also it will let you know that I am safe." Harry said. "If I die, a panther will appear on your tattoos, resting peacefully."
"Which was the real reason?" Serena asked quietly. "To let us know how you were, or to let us share your power?"
"Both." Harry said firmly. He smiled then. "Come on then, lets see if this works. Try something simple, like a levitation charm. It's not necessary to say the spell only think of what you want to do and what you want to do it too."
Harry laughed happily as five plates levitated a foot off the table. "You see, fun. But," He said, holding his hand open and straight out, and watched as the five plates lowered themselves back to the table. "I'm still stronger than you!" He said in a childish tone, watching them all laugh.
"Wow, that was cool!" Ron said.
"Wait till I can teach you something to do in private with Hermione." Harry said smiling wickedly.
"I hate this!" Harry said. "Nothing looks quite right with these damned tattoos on my arms!" Harry kept snapping his fingers watching his clothes change each time.
"Honestly, Harry you are worse than me!" Serena said, doing much the same as Harry. "I don't think I'll ever get used to using magic like this."
"Seem to be doing okay too me." Harry said, as a white, short sleeve, button up shirt, and black pants appeared on him. "Hmm, what d'ya think?"
"Brilliant." Serena said. She found herself in a tight white shirt, and even tighter jeans. "And me?"
"I think," Harry said, smiling wickedly. "that I want to stay home now."
"Too late, shoulda thought about that before this plan of yours." Serena said, smiling. "However, tomorrow we have absolutely nothing to do." She added slyly.
"Deal." Harry said quickly.
"Suppose its time to get everyone else ready to go." Serena said.
Harry sighed. "I really wish everyone could apparate. No one really thinks about how much power it takes for me to do this with so many people." He said.
"Are you claiming weakness, Snuffles?" Serena said, raising an eyebrow.
"Never." Harry said.
"I don't see why we can't come." Molly said. "We agreed not to make the children come back with us."
"Because Harry made me promise that no parents would be around until dinner." Remus said.
"The Grangers are going!" Molly yelled.
"The Grangers can't apparate, nor will they yell at any of the children." Remus said. "I think that is the most important thing to them, too be treated as adults."
"Adults don't disappear in the night, hide themselves from their families, and cause so much trouble that the Ministry had to fix things themselves." Molly said.
"Adults are also not followed night and day, yelled at for having fun, nor are they treated as harshly for making their mistakes." Remus said wisely. "I cannot talk anymore. I have to be on time, and I am taking the Grangers as well."
"Fine! Tell my children I said hello since they are so afraid of coming home to me." Molly said, leaving the room in a huff.
The Marauders were sitting in the Leaky Cauldron staring at the fireplace, waiting on Remus. They had been waiting for half an hour already and were beginning to think that Remus had forgotten, when he stepped out of the fire, Mr. and Mrs. Granger in tow.
"Sorry we are late." Remus said. "Molly gave me a bit of trouble."
"Hello Moony, good to see you." Harry said, grinning. "She didn't like that part about her not coming earlier huh?"
"Not in the least." Remus said.
"Hello Mr. and Mrs. Granger, nice to see you again." Harry said, smiling warmly. "I believe you know everyone but Neville Longbottom. Neville, these are Hermione's parents."
"Nice to meet you both." Neville said politely.
"Hi Mum! Hi Dad!" Hermione said cheerfully from Ron's lap. "This is my boyfriend Ron. You didn't meet for more than a few minutes last time."
"Hermione!" Mrs. Granger cried happily. "I'm so glad to see you again. Are you alright?" She added while rushing to her daughter, wrapping her in a firm hug.
"Good to see you well, Hermione." Her Dad said, smiling warmly, hugging her tight as well. "We were so worried."
Hermione looked at Harry. "I told you they would be okay with it!" She said sticking out her tongue.
"Real mature!" Harry said, sticking his tongue out as well.
"Alright, you lot, we got lots of stuff to do!" Serena said. "We need money!" she added and they all cheered, except Neville.
"Problem, Nev?" Harry asked.
"I, um, don't have any money." Neville said quietly.
"Then I will just have to get more out of my vault!" Harry said smiling. "Don't be so thick! I told you this summer everything was on me!" He said laughing. "And I meant it!"
"Thanks, Harry. Sorry bout not being able to get you a present." Neville said, smiling sheepishly.
"I forgot!" Harry said, his eyes wide. "No present?" Neville nodded sadly. "Then you are off from us till school!" Neville looked at Harry in shock, causing Harry to laugh. "Kidding, mate. I have my own tradition on birthdays now. Everyone else gets presents. Welcome to my birthday celebration!"
They first went to Gringotts. Harry and Serena stood in their vault looking around in awe. They still had not adapted to having so much money. Harry quickly filled ten bags with gold, and picked up the box on the pedestal. Smiling, he was ready to leave again. Serena taking almost as much gold, smiled at him happily.
"Happy Birthday, Potter." She said.
"Happy Birthday to you as well." Harry said smiling.
"My birthday is over a month away!" Serena said, shocked that he had forgotten.
"I know, but this is the first full day I spent with you as you." Harry said, still smiling.
"Oh." Serena said, then kissed him deeply. "That is so sweet!"
Remus cleared his throat. "We are all done. Whenever you two are ready, we can go." He said smiling.
"Horrid timing, Moony!" Harry said laughing. "I think I was just about to get a proper birthday present!"
"I know, that's why I said something!" Remus said laughing.
"Fine, lets go." Serena said, sounding upset.
Sitting in the cart on the way back to the main entrance, Harry decided some introductions were in order.
"Moony!" Harry said. "I want you to meet Firelight," Harry waved to Hermione, "the first of wizard kind to ever become a magical creature, and Bambi," Harry waved to Ron, "the second person I know of to be a stag."
"Bambi?" Remus said, an eyebrow raised.
"Of course." Harry said smiling. "Suits him doesn't it? Hermione named him, which is what makes it even funnier!"
"Why is that name so funny?" Ron asked, quite proud of the name.
"Well, Ron, I didn't want to tell you where that name came from." Hermione said softly.
"Tell me anyway." Ron said.
"Bambi was a scared little dear who grew into a scared little stag." Harry said laughing. "In a muggle children's movie!"
"I no longer wish to be known as Bambi!" Ron shouted.
"Too late, its already set on all the marauder items we have!" Harry said laughing.
"He was a brave stag at the end." Hermione said, to console Ron. "Ran into a burning forest to save someone."
"That's not brave." Ginny said. "That's thick! The name suits you!"
"Hermione, a magical creature?" Remus asked.
"Think about it Remus." Harry said. "Her name is Firelight."
Remus' eyes opened wide. "You don't mean she's a-"
"Yup." Harry said.
"Amazing!" Remus said.
"Yeah." Harry said. "Hey did we get our Hogwarts letters?"
"Oh, yes." Remus said. "I just forgot."
They exited the cart at this time, as well as Gringotts. Remus handed them their letters. They all began reading them, Harry frowning from time to time. Harry smiled broadly at the end of the letter. He looked to the others who all bore similar grins of happiness, again except for Neville who seemed to not be included. They began talking as they walked slowly around Diagon Alley.
"Nev!" Harry said cheerfully. "The Marauder's are too give a speech at the welcoming feast."
"Really!" Neville said, sounding excited and nervous at the same time.
"Yup!" Serena said smiling.
"How could we not!" Ginny said. "We were such a hit last year."
"Dumbledore has a load of class about him, inviting us to speak again." Ron said.
"We didn't get to last time, Ronald!" Hermione said.
"I know, but I meant the marauders altogether." Ron said.
"Moony, that means you too!" Harry said.
"I'm a teacher, Harry!" Remus said smiling.
"Marauder first. You just happen to teach now." Serena said as if that were the end of it.
"Besides, we'll need a teacher to help us, since Dumbledore approved something." Harry said.
"What did he approve?" Serena asked.
"I'll tell you when its time, and not a moment before." Harry said smiling. "Also, we are hosting a ball this year."
"WHAT!" They all cried in unison.
"Yup, a new annual event in ours and our predecessors honor." Harry said smiling. "The Marauders Masquerade!"
"And what are you going to masquerade as, my dear Harry?" Serena asked.
"Someone without a big head." Harry said smiling.
"Good luck!" Ginny said, laughing.
"Gin, read my letter from Dumbledore while I tell Serena." Harry said, handing Ginny a piece of parchment. Harry began whispering in Serena's ear.
"Oh my god!" Ginny said laughing. "This can't be real!"
"It is." Harry said. "I couldn't have made it that quick."
"But it says all Marauders are excluded!" Ginny said.
"Read carefully!" Harry said. "We are excluded from voting, not entering!"
"Brilliant!" Ginny said.
"Classic!" Serena agreed.
"Only the best for the Marauders." Harry said. "It might be a good year yet!" Harry spotted a shop he decided was a good place to begin his shopping. "Hey you guys go on ahead for a minute. Get Neville a trunk, or buy some books, anything. Its time for me to go shopping for your presents. Serena, whatever you buy for them, I will pay you back."
"Harry, should I go with them?" Remus asked, clearly worried.
"No, they can look after themselves in more ways than you know." Harry said. "Besides their are fifteen aurors and twelve Order members on this street. I need you with me anyway."
"Why does he get to come?" Serena asked.
"Because his present is arriving later." Harry said calmly. "All presents will be a surprise until dinner." He added with finality.
"Fine, but get me something nice, this year." Serena said. "Brooms are good for godmother's, but a girlfriend who shags you senseless should get something nicer!"
"I'll remember that." Harry said smiling. "As soon as I meet a girl who does such I will buy her the best gift I can find!"
Serena flung a spell at him with her hand, leaving Remus shocked. Harry laughed. "Close, but still not close enough!" He said happily.
"You better be lucky I know you are kidding, or I would have sent a curse you can't protect against!" She said laughing. "See you soon."
Harry nodded for Remus to follow him. As last year they walked slowly to talk. "Don't worry, Moony. I'm protected from quite a bit of magic now."
"I'm more shocked that Serena can do wandless magic as easily as you." Remus said.
"Oh, that. They can all do it now, even Neville." Harry said easily, as if it were a natural thing.
"How?" Remus asked.
"Moony, I know a lot of magic that most never bothered to learn." Harry said calmly. "As well as most aren't strong enough to do anymore. I merely found how to keep them safe when needed. They are still getting a bit used to it."
"Serena seems to have adapted easily." Remus said.
"Yeah, but she spends more time with me than anyone else." Harry said. "The first night I was up half of it teaching her to control herself to keep the mirrors and windows from exploding when she-" Harry laughed a bit. "Never mind. She just learned quicker."
"I see." Remus said smiling. "You don't have to worry, Harry. I am your friend."
"I know, Moony, but its still a bit hard trying to separate you the Marauder from you the godparent in charge of me." Harry said. "It's a great show of separating the two just that you are here."
"I know. Just letting you know you can talk freely." Remus said.
"Good. Well, while we're in here, please don't touch anything I'm going to buy." Harry said. "I learned that silver holds very strong magical properties. They won't be too good for you to hold onto, if you know what I mean."
"Understood." Remus said. "What is this present you have for me anyway?"
"Ah, ah, ah. It is a surprise." Harry said smiling. "You'll find out at dinner."
Inside the shop, Harry made a number of purchases, one in particular caught Remus' eye, but he said nothing. Harry kept making specific instructions, drawing specific designs, and making sure everything was done correctly. He kept saying they had to be perfect, or else it wouldn't work. Remus was very confused, as he never knew Harry knew anything of ancient runes, but seeing Harry's arms reminded him that Harry knew quite a bit more than anyone really knew.
Harry stopped outside the shop, and began to look at each of the things he purchased. He began muttering incantations over every object. Most times he sounded almost like he was hissing at the objects. Then he looked up at Remus and smiled a bit.
"Where can I find snakes?" Harry asked.
"At the pet shop, why?" Remus asked.
"Never mind that now. Lets go." Harry said walking to the shop.
Entering the shop, Harry asked for a snake that was almost ten feet long. Harry began hissing at the snake, while the snake responded in kind. When Harry had talked to the snake for more than ten minutes, he talked to the owner of the shop and bought the snake. Outside of that shop, he held his arm out for the snake. The snake easily wrapped around his arm, over his shoulders, and down the other arm. Both now began hissing at the objects Harry had purchased, and Remus stood amazed as each of them glowed brightly, then faded again.
"Okay, Remus, I'm done, but I need a new trunk now. My friend here needs a good home, and I promised to care for him till I got too school, where I can leave him in the forbidden forest." Harry said.
"Alright, Harry, but will you tell me what that was about?" Remus asked.
"I'll tell you if it works." Harry said. "You're actually supposed to do this with a snake about twice his size, but this was the biggest snake in the store."
"Where did you learn that spell?" Remus asked.
"A book at Sirius' house that I stole. Well actually I took every book in Sirius' house. There was one that claimed it was written by Salazar Slytherin originally, and it could only be done by a parseltongue. They have no one to prove the theory as there were only five parseltongues in history." Harry said. "If it works, though, I'll let you know."
"Alright, Harry." Remus said.
They walked into the trunk shop where Neville was busily designing a trunk while the others just looked at him laughing. Harry smiled, happy to see his friends so happy. He could never figure out why such little things brought him happiness. He only hoped it wouldn't end to quickly. He knew the final battle was coming sooner than he wanted. They all looked shocked as Harry walked in with a snake coiled around him.
"Why are they looking at me so strangely?" The snake asked.
"It's not you. They weren't expecting me to appear with a snake is all. They are still a bit nervous that I know your language so well." Harry said.
"I was a bit surprised by that myself. Could you please ask them not to stare at me? I do not like it."
"Of course, friend. Thank you for helping me."
"It was a pleasure."
"Guys, don't stare. He doesn't like it." Harry said calmly. They all began looking at anything but Harry. Harry merely looked at the shop owner. "Sir, can you make any trunks that hold a habitat fit for a snake of this size?"
"Of course, I believe I have just the thing you need." He said, showing Harry a trunk. When the snake approved and slithered off Harry's arms, Harry paid for the trunk. He shrank it, knowing that the snake would be fine, and pocketed the trunk for safe keeping.
"Harry, you bought a snake." Serena said, trying to sound calm.
"I know, he is a very good snake too." Harry said.
"But Harry, you bought a snake!" Serena said.
"I will set him free in the forest when we get too school." Harry said.
"So this was just a mercy purchase?" Serena asked.
"No I asked him for some help, and offered him the freedom he asked for in return." Harry said.
"What did he help you with?" Serena asked.
"I can't tell you that." Harry said. "Please, just trust me, and let it go for now."
"Fine, but we will talk about this again." Serena said.
"Alright." Harry said calmly. "So how is Neville coming along?"
"He is designing it meticulously. Its getting a bit annoying. I keep telling him you can magic it, but he doesn't believe me." Serena said.
"Nev!" Harry said calmly.
"Yeah, Harry?" He replied.
"Just pick a trunk that has enough rooms. I will fix it up for you with my own unique style, just for you. Sound good?" Harry asked.
"Cool!" Neville said happily. "I'll take this one."
Harry paid quickly, and ushered the excited boy out of the store. He was giddy with excitement, wanting to go home immediately to design the trunk. Harry laughed, shrunk the trunk and handed it to Neville telling him he would set it up when they got back. They went to the robe maker next, all getting brand new robes, including three dress robes each. Harry smiled knowingly. Dumbledore had more than one surprise in store for them, and Harry had one or two of his own. They also refilled their stock of potion ingredients at the apothecary. Harry surprised them all by buying some of almost every item in the store.
The bookstore caused the most pandemonium. Ron and Ginny collected necessary schoolbooks, while Neville began searching the transfiguration books for his newest goal. Harry began searching in the ancient magic section, picking up more than a few books, and Serena began looking into defensive books that held spells none of them had looked for before. Harry didn't even complain at Hermione wanting to buy antique books, asking only if he could look through them when she was finished.
Harry made a quick stop into Olivander's after this. He apologized for asking so much, and received everything he needed, then he conjured some gift-wrapping on the items, though they would know what they had by the shape of them. They also spent some time with Fred and George, stocking up on necessary items for pranks. Harry received a few products still being tested, though he was assured they worked perfectly. Serena offered them some pictures of their pranks from last year, which the twins accepted happily. They asked for invites for some of the more notorious pranks, so they could comment joke master to joke master. They all agreed.
Fred and George announced that it was near time to meet at the Leaky Cauldron. Harry's eyes opened wide and he ran from the store quickly, telling everyone he would meet them there as soon as possible. He ran through the Leaky Cauldron into muggle London. There he actually bumped into the person he was waiting for.
"I was beginning to think you forgot I was going to be here." She said smiling.
The woman had not changed since Harry had seen her last. Her hair was blonde and long, hanging almost to her waist. Though she showed no sign of her age, her blue eyes said that she was wise enough for her years. She looked as beautiful as she had been when she was young. Harry smiled at her.
"He's inside here. Hold on a second." Harry said. He waved his hand over her, saying something she couldn't hear. When she looked at the wall he appeared out of, she now saw a door. "Lets go, and don't act like you haven't seen anything here at least a hundred times before, ok?" she nodded quickly.
"Will he be happy to see me?" She asked.
"I hope so, I really do. He sounded really bad when he talked about you." Harry said. "We have to go or we will be late."
She followed him into the Leaky Cauldron, holding his arm in a friendly manner. Everyone looked in shock as they saw Harry Potter with yet another woman. He saw reporters start writing, and waved his hand boredly, watching them stare shocked as their parchments and quills disappeared. Harry led her to the private dinning hall he had arranged.
Serena glared angrily at the woman, causing her to hold on tighter to Harry. Harry looked at Serena and shook his head easily. Everyone else just seemed to stare at the two with shock on their face. It was obvious that she was a muggle now, as she looked shocked at the whole group. Remus had not yet seen her, nor did he know Harry had even entered the room.
"Surprise Moony!" Harry said happily. Remus looked up and his mouth dropped open.
"Sam?" Remus asked. She nodded happily.
"You remembered!" She said happily. "Harry told me you still remembered. Its good to know he wasn't kidding."
"Harry, I need to speak to you." Remus said.
"Sorry, Moony, no time right now. There is a party going on in my honor!" Harry said, smiling again. "It would be rude to leave my guests, and you to leave when one came especially to see you."
He walked with her to the table and offered her a seat next to Remus. "You know Moony, of course. These are my best mates Ron, Hermione, Ginny, and Neville. This is my Headmaster and friend, Mr. Albus Dumbledore. Molly and Arthur Weasley, the two I told you about treating me as a son. The two that look like they are planning something are Fred and George Weasley, who helped me find my way as a master of jokes. I've saved the best for last of course. This," Harry said, as he grabbed Serena's hand, who stood up next to him. "is my girlfriend, Serena Black. Sirius' daughter and the most wonderful girl I know."
"Oh, so this is her!" Sam said, standing and hugging her quickly. "Harry has told me so much about you. It's great to finally meet you."
"It's nice to meet you too." Serena said quietly.
"Everyone, I would like you to meet my Mum's best friend, Sam Powell." Harry said, directing her last name at Remus, who had understood the meaning. "So everyone knows, she is a muggle. Mum told her about magic though so no worries."
Harry offered Serena a seat, and took the one right next to her as everyone was still shocked to see someone who didn't belong in this place at all, sitting calmly and looking around cheerfully.
"Okay, so you all remember, I began a tradition last year as a way of celebrating my birthday. Everyone else gets presents. Fred and George, I will tell you of every prank we plan this year so you can come and see them if you want to and Dumbledore permits it." Harry said nodding at them.
"Brilliant!" They said together.
"Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, I offer you an invitation to our flat to visit a week before we go to school, and a day before we return to Grimmauld Place. This is so you can see that we have lived remarkably well, and that we are not being too irresponsible. I offer the same to you Mr. and Mrs. Granger. I hope that is a sufficient present." Harry said, smiling.
"Harry dear, that is a wonderful thing for you to do." Mrs. Weasley said smiling. "I'm glad you are willing to offer that to us, and we accept of course."
"I agree, though I do not know how we will get there." Mr. Granger said. "We don't know how to travel like you do."
"Don't worry sir, I will give you directions that day how to get there. I will have to modify your memories though, as you two are sadly the least protected of all of us here." Harry said. The Grangers nodded in understanding.
"Professor, I give you what I did at Christmas." Harry said, waving his hand as a box appeared. "I know you will like this. They are your favorite, after all."
Dumbledore opened the box. "Ah and only my favorites. Thank you Harry." he said. Harry nodded.
"Sam, Moony, do I have to tell you two what your presents are, or can I leave you to figure that out on your own?" Harry asked.
"I believe I know what my present is Harry." Sam said. "I wish I had managed to get you a present, but you didn't tell me it was your birthday."
"I didn't want a present." Harry said seriously, smiling warmly at her. "You told me about my Mum, and no one could ever give me a better present." Serena nodded at this and also smiled at the woman.
"I should thank you too. You must have been the other reason he has been happy since his suspension last year." She said.
"Maybe. However, I never noticed those tattoos last time Harry." Sam said.
"They are a new thing, and I really don't want to explain them. I don't think I'm allowed to either." Harry said, looking at Dumbledore who shook his head. "Thought not."
Harry pulled out the boxes of things he bought earlier and began handing them out. "Guys, these are yours."
"Ron, Hermione, and Neville got more than me!" Serena said, offended. Harry whispered about the visit to Olivander's. "Oh, never mind then."
Everyone opened their presents quickly. Ron, Hermione and Neville finding their new wands and holsters, quickly put them on and put their wands inside, smiling as they now had the same things as the other marauders. As they opened their next packages, everyone saw what they were looking at.
Beautiful silver necklaces, with a small pendant on them with the same design as Harry's tattoo, with runes written on them. The necklace also had the runes engraved on them, though they were much smaller than they could see. All of them looked with shock as they saw these items. They all looked at Harry with confusion and happiness on their faces.
"A present for all the Marauders that can wear them." Harry said, looking sadly at Remus. "Sorry, Moony, but it had to be silver."
"I understand Harry. This present alone is a bit...overwhelming." Remus said, smiling at Sam.
"Good." Harry said. Then looked at his friends. "Put them on already!" The quickly put the necklaces on. Harry smiled and began to try and see if this worked.
Guys! Do you hear me? He thought.
"Of course we hear you Harry we are sitting right here." Hermione said confused. The others looked at her equally confused.
You don't have to talk if you can hear me just think.
What the hell is this! Serena thought.
Magic, love. Magic. Harry thought.
How did you do this?
What is going on?
This is creepy!
Stop talking like this!
Please guys, one at a time. Stop thinking towards the others and I will explain. Harry thought to them. When everyone stopped thinking to each other Harry spoke. "It's the necklaces. This makes secrets a lot easier to keep. They will only work for us, so no one can steal them and eavesdrop. Just the same, try to keep them safe, and please take them off at...inappropriate thinking times." He said, smiling.
"Wicked!" Ginny said.
"Brilliant!" Ron said.
"Amazing!" Hermione agreed.
"Wow." Neville said shocked.
cool I can think about us doing some wonderful things and you can hear it! Serena thought.
So can we! Ron said.
Damn!
"Sorry, I don't think it works for one person to another only. I'll look into it though, if you guys want." Harry said.
"YES!" They all said quickly.
Harry laughed, and turned to Serena. "You said you deserved something special." Harry said smiling as he handed her a small box. "This should be special enough."
Serena opened the box and smiled at him. "Are you proposing?"
"Not yet, Black. But it is an important ring." Harry said. "Read the inscription."
Serena read it and her eyes got wide.
For the person who showed me that true love holds no bounds
She hugged Harry and began kissing him, forgetting that the others were even there. She didn't care either. Harry had given her the best present she had ever received and she planned to show him what that mean to her. Remus again cleared his throat, and this time was glared at by Serena instantly.
"I take it you like it, then." Harry said, a goofy grin appearing on his face.
"I love it, Harry. Thank you." Serena said.
"Wow that must have been some inscription mate." Ron said. "Mind giving me a hint?"
"Be honest." Harry said easily. "You can never go wrong that way, mate."
Serena thought the inscription to the others. Both girls smiled happily at Serena and they boys looked shocked from Harry to Serena, wondering how that was so special. Harry meant it to mean many things at once, like her being in love with him even when she was his godmother, sister, and friend, yet still willing to give him a chance when he finally realized his true feelings for her.
"Harry, could I have a word with you now?" Remus asked. Harry looked at Serena, who nodded easily. Harry stood and followed Remus to a quiet part of the room.
"Problem, Moony?" Harry asked.
"Why did you do this?" Remus asked nodding too Sam.
"Moony, are you really that thick?" Harry asked. "This woman is dead set on being with the famous Moony. You never got over her either. Give it a go. She knows she can't be with you on the full moon, but there are a lot more days than nights with a full moon."
"Harry, was this the prank you were going to pull on me?" Remus asked. "You said something was going to happen this summer."
"No, Moony." Harry said. "The prank was gonna be to have her knock on the door to Grimmauld Place with you none the wiser. After talking to Sirius about my new birthday tradition, he offered this as a way to finally give you the chance you screwed up last time."
"Then I thank you, Harry, as well as Sirius." Remus said. "Tell him his plans are still amazing."
"He knows, Moony. He knows." Harry said smiling.