XI

It was late when Harry woke. He lay there for moment, thinking about the previous night and how much he had enjoyed it. And if he was any judge, the woman who lay next to him, her head resting on his chest had not exactly hated it, either. He looked down at her when she stirred slightly and opened her eyes which quickly found his own. She smiled lazily at him and snuggled a little closer and let out a happy sigh.

Harry responded by gently cradling her to him with the arm she was resting on. It was tingling uncomfortably with a slight lack of blood, but the closeness to his lover more than made up for it. At that moment, Harry felt he could take on all of Riddle's forces by himself and emerge from the battle without so much as a scratch.

"Good morning, love," Narcissa said and placed a kiss on his pectoral muscle.

"Hey. I was wondering if you could help me? Thing is, I'm looking for this woman who came into my room last night. She looked a lot like you, but I can't be sure. You see, the last I saw of her, she wasn't wearing anything, so I'd best check," Harry said and raised the sheet and peeked under it. He let it drop and looked at Narcissa and smiled impishly. "That was you?"

Cissy giggled happily into his neck and slapped him on his chest. "Behave, you prat. Now, I'm going to take a bath and you," she said and placed a chaste kiss on his lips "are going to make brunch. If my sisters haven't, that is." With that, Narcissa got out of bed and pulled on her robes and quit the room, a happy spring in her step. Harry watched on with a smile on his face, before getting dressed himself.

A few minutes later, he entered the kitchen to find Bellatrix and Andromeda already there, busying themselves with the various foodstuffs. The pair looked up when Harry entered and smiled at him and bade him a good afternoon. He wasn't sure he liked the evil grin that found its way onto Bella's face and braced himself for whatever was coming.

"Next time Harry, please remember to have whichever one of us you're... entertaining put up silencing charms on the room. Andie and I barely got any sleep last night. I suppose you could use silencio on us, but that's not nearly as much fun."

Harry blushed a deep red, and looked away, which made Bellatrix very happy. So he wasn't completely impervious to her teasing, after all. While not quite as much fun as him responding in the same way, it was still deeply satisfying to know she could embarrass him like this.

Andie gave her sister a mock look of annoyance, before she walked over to Harry, who had taken a seat at the table. She sat on his lap and gave him a kiss that seemed to promise things and it made Harry stir in certain places which only kept the blush on his face longer.

"Bella, leave the Boy-Who-Lived alone," Andie said flirtatiously. Harry, meaning to thank Andie for the support looked up at her and felt his stomach drop when he saw her sport almost the exact same evil grin her sister did. "I have to wonder, though. After last night, do you suppose we should start calling him the Boy-Who-Loved?" Bella leaned her head back and laughed heartily at their teasing, which Harry was starting to enjoy as well, going by the smile on his face.

Narcissa entered the kitchen, a grin on her face. She was working her damp hair in a long braid. "I thought only Riddle had more than one hyphenated name," she said and the room exploded in laughter. Narcissa took a seat opposite of Harry and looked on her sister, happily sitting on Harry's lap. An almost audible groan escaped Harry's lips when Narcissa started grinning in an eerily similar way to her sisters. "Though, it has to be said, Harry's prowess has earned him the name. Several times over, in fact." Again, Harry blushed and the sisters laughed at their lover's embarrassment.


Harry stepped into the bath and leaned against it, his eyes closed as he soaked. Tonight, he was going to Hogwarts and he was bringing the others with him. He had thought he'd be more worried, but he was surprisingly calm.

Part of it was because he'd already resolved that he was done going it alone, but mostly it was because when the sisters told him they were more than capable of taking care of themselves, they were not boasting. It was a very reassuring fact.

When the door opened, he was not surprised. He moved to the side and allowed Bellatrix to sit beside him in the large bath. After a while, she nudged him and settled behind, then had him lean back, his head resting on her ample bosom. She collected water in her palms and slowly let it run down his body and was glad to feel him relax completely in her arms.

"This is nice," he said and got a little more comfortable. She agreed and placed a kiss on his shoulder. Her finger traced a scar there; an eight inch cut that looked fairly deep.

"What happened?"

"Horntail, fourth year, the Tri-Wizard," mumbled.

She kissed the scar lovingly, but she winced as she let her eyes roam over his body, noting the scars. There were just so many of them, and more yet to come, no doubt."Can I wash you, Harry? I don't think I'm quite ready for anything more than that yet, but I find myself wanting to touch you, to feel you."

Harry nodded and moved to a built in seat on one side of the bath, where Bellatrix would have easy access to his body. She reached for a clean cloth and slowly and sensually cleaned his body, her hands meticulous in their work. He found it very enjoyable and, as always found himself soothed by her presence, even if this was the first time they had been quite this close.

"You know," Bella said as she worked, "in ancient times, women would do this for their men, before battle. They would undress their man, bathe and oil him, then dress him in his armour."

Harry leaned into her touch in appreciation of her efforts. "Bella, I want you to know that I will never pressure you into anything. You decide when and if you want to go any further than this."

Bella felt a surge of love run through her at his thoughtful words. She placed the cloth on the floor next to the bath and wrapped her hands around his chest from behind. She kissed and nibbled at his earlobe and whispered teasingly into his ear; "Oh, you and I will enjoy each other eventually, Harry, and it will be glorious. Not now, but very soon." She leaned back and pulled him with her and closed her eyes, contentment filling every fibre of her being. It never ceased to amaze her just how much she loved the man resting in her embrace...


Harry stood in the foyer, waiting for the sisters. It was around eight in the evening and he was somewhat anxious to get going. He wanted to make a little stop in the Forbidden forest before they went to Hogwarts. Finally, they arrived, and Harry was struck speechless and his jaw nearly became unhinged.

This was what they had gone to buy in Knockturn Alley? All three women were wearing some kind of soft black leather armour that was laced in the front and perhaps cut a little lower than was strictly necessary. Or practical. There were a series of runes etched into the leather, but Harry had no idea what they meant, but assumed they were protective in nature. Underneath, they had worn warm black shirts. Tight, black trousers were tucked into tanned leather boots that looked extremely comfortable and they wore black leather gloves.

To complete the outfit, all three wore hooded cloaks of green that were so dark, they were almost black. The women approached him with pleased smiles and stopped before him. Harry suddenly felt rather underdressed in his shirt, cargo pants and coat. And the work boots. His incredibly stylish and chic, steel toed boots. The boots were cool. They were. Ask anybody...

"Did we break him?" Bellatrix asked impishly.

"I rather think we did, sister," Narcissa agreed.

"Harry dear, perhaps you should close your mouth. While your impression of a fish is most fetching, it is uncalled for, I think," Andie said and giggled.

Harry hastily closed his gaping mouth and tried to think of something to say. They had been having entirely too much fun at his expense that day, so Harry felt he needed to retaliate somehow. Eventually, he landed on a question. "Are you planning on seducing the enemy into submission?" he asked in a deadpan voice.

All three laughed at that, which made Harry a little annoyed. He should have known he'd have to do better than that!

Andie stepped up and kissed him on the lips. "Only you, darling, only you."

"Anyway, you three look great," Harry said after recovering. Hedwig gave a pleased hoot in acceptance, before flying of her perch and landing on Harry's shoulder. "We're going to Apparate to the edge of the Forbidden forest and make for the grounds through there. I know it takes a bit longer, but I want to meet with the centaurs before going to Hogwarts. Have any of you explored the forest?"

The sisters all shook their heads.

"Well, it'll be OK, I know my way around. Just keep away from Aragog's children and we'll be fine."

"Aragog?" Bella asked in a very sickeningly sweet voice that would have made Umbridge jealous. All that was missing was that disgusting 'hem hem' that Harry was certain would haunt his nightmares forever.

"Right," Harry said, feeling they might not be overly happy once he revealed what he was talking about. He mentally grinned. After today, they had it coming. "Aragog was an Acromantula that lived in the western part of the forest. If we don't wander in that direction, we'll be all right. Maybe. Possibly. Oh, and Fluffy the Cerberus lives there too, we may want to stay clear of him as well. And Grawp the giant, but he's Hagrid's brother, so he'll probably leave us alone."

Harry's mental grin widened. This was fun. "At least I hope so. Can't be certain. Of course, these are just the things I know about and have met or faced myself, so there may be more running about in there. Then again, if we're unlucky, the centaurs may decide to use us as target practice. But, hey, look on the bright side; if that happens, we obviously won't have to worry about any of the others."

With each resident of the forest he mentioned, more colour seemed to drain from the faces of his lovers and if looks could kill, he was certain he'd be dead several times over. Harry could not hold in his laughter any longer and he started laughing and eventually doubled over in stitches as the murderous scowls deepened. They were not best pleased and a trio of stinging hexes later, Harry stopped laughing and began rubbing his sore behind. He did not stop smiling, though.

"Consider this payback for today. Anyway, it is not too hard to avoid any of those beasts and even if we run into Fluffy, he won't be any trouble," Harry said and produced a small music box from a pocket. "The reason I want to meet the centaurs is I wish to give them a copy of the notes on magical beings you and I discussed earlier, Cissy. They need time to go over them, same as the others. Now, are we ready to go?"

Once he was given an affirmative nod by them, Harry reached for Hedwig, who latched onto his shoulder with her talons.

"Ruddy bird," Harry sighed to the massive entertainment of the three witches. At that moment, it became quite apparent to Harry, that he had absolutely no control over his own life any longer...


"All right," Harry said and turned to face his companions, his back turned to the forest. "We'll stick to the path, to be safe. Stay close and keep your wands out. Or staff, Bella, if you prefer."

Apparently Bellatrix quite liked her new staff and had practised with it quite a bit since it had accepted her. She seemed quite gifted with it and she was really happy with the results, given she'd only had it for a little more than a day. As it turned out, it was much more powerful than her wand, which was saying something. It was also very interesting to note that she could use it with such ease, given that she was still bonded with her wand.

Harry turned and Hedwig took to the skies and disappeared into the darkness. Harry raised his arms and reached out with his senses and felt the familiar rush take over his body, before it receded to a little tingle. He motioned for the ladies to follow and in they went.

The forest was quiet and all that could be heard were their own footsteps. Harry could tell Bella, Cissy and Andie were pretty nervous being in there, but he reassured them he would hear and feel anything long before it ever came close enough to do them any harm. That seemed to reassure them and they walked on in a companionable silence.

They had walked for an hour or so when they came upon a clearing where Harry knew they would find the centaurs. They entered the clearing to find it empty, but Harry knew they would be there soon enough, as at two of the noble beings had been monitoring their presence. Harry sat on a stump and motioned for the other three to do so as well. He took of his wool cap and ran a hand over his forehead, exposing his scar.

"Bane! Ronan! I know you're there. I need to talk to you. I come in peace and mean you no harm. I need but a moment of your time, then we'll be on our way."

Slowly, the centaurs made their way into the clearing, led by Ronan, Bane and, surprisingly Firenze. The former two had their bows trained on the trio, as did about a dozen others at the edge of the clearing. Harry rose from his seat, and his companions followed suit. Harry slowly reached into a pocket of his coat and pulled out a rolled up parchment. Firenze approached him and took the parchment and put it in a pouch he had tied around his waist.

"The stars told of your coming, but different you appear to my eyes, Harry Potter, and long travelled," the fair centaur said in his sad voice as he examined the young man standing in front of him. "And you keep interesting company. Two followers of the Dark and their sister, if I'm not mistaken. I recognize the Black sisters from their class pictures at Hogwarts."

Bellatrix growled at that and almost shouted at the centaur. "Former follower of the Dark, you glorified draft horse! I have allied myself with Harry, as have my sisters. I will never again bow to that bastard Riddle!"

Harry placed a hand on Bellatrix's shoulder to calm her down. "There are a number of reasons why these women are here with me, but rest assured, they are fully committed to fighting against the Darkness. Now, I'd like to ask you to look over that parchment I gave you and send a missive to Professor McGonagall once you've done so and tell me what you think.

I am a little pressed for time, so I will not go to much into it now, but I plan on starting a movement for change once this war is over. I assume you know I'm fated to battle Tom Riddle?" The Centaurs gave him reluctant nods. "Well, I mean to defeat him and once I have done so, I am going to try and use any influence I gain from that and try and turn our world to better ways."

Firenze held his gaze on the young man for a long while, before he graced Harry with a small smile. He'd been right then, all those years ago, when he went out of his way, defied his herd and saved the boy when he faced the Evil One that first time in the forest. And yet, even now, as this young man worked toward the defeat of his and the world's enemy, Firenze was certain Harry Potter's destiny was only just beginning.

"We shall certainly give this our attention and hold counsel. It is good that you have taken an interest in the welfare of the other races, Harry Potter. It will certainly help you on your way to unify us. Only together can we possibly weather the storm that is brewing. Now, I believe it is time for you to move on, but first, I will ask you to go on ahead. I have something I need to say to your companions."

Once Harry had left the clearing, the three Black sisters turned to the centaur and eyed him quizzically.

"What wanted you with us, master centaur?" Narcissa finally asked.

"What are your plans for Mr. Potter?" the centaur asked.

Narcissa frowned. "There's no plan, except to help Harry survive and to love and care for him."

Firenze noted the other two women nodded along with their sister and smiled. "An honest answer, and a notion shared by your sisters, I see. That is good. Mr. Potter will need all the love and support he can have, but I am afraid it will not be enough to weather the storm that is brewing."

Bellatrix seemed to take offence at that, but Firenze held up a hand. "Your lover will be approached by the Cat, the Owl, the Swallow and the Chameleon. You three must guide them and make sure they understand and act upon their feelings once they make themselves known. It is absolutely imperative." And with that the centaur turned around and went off.

Bella huffed irritably. "Who are those women? I mean, who is the Cat?" Her sisters shrugged. "Well, that's useless, then."

"Not so, Bellatrix," Narcissa said. "While it may feel useless, what it does do is help you be alert and perhaps you will notice things you might not have, otherwise. But I must say, I find his warning of a brewing storm alarming. If the storm isn't here yet, I can only conclude it will become worse. Or perhaps a different threat."


Harry continued to lead the ladies through the forest, his senses on full alert. They would not be hurt in here while he was with them, he refused to let it happen. He had caught a whiff of Fluffy earlier but the cerberus seemed to be headed in the opposite direction. Every now and then, he thought he could sense the arrival of a child of Aragog“s, but nothing came of it.

They were not too far away from the edge of the forest, when Harry felt a rumbling in the earth, coming closer at an alarming speed. He motioned for the others to stop and focused his hearing as much as he could. He was silent for almost a minute, his companions growing restless. Suddenly, they too could hear the noise. They looked back at Harry, who cracked a smile and visibly relaxed.

"What is it?" Narcissa asked.

Harry just shook his head and turned to his ladies. "You'll see."

Bella clicked her tongue in annoyance. "You're sure there wasn't some centaur in that potion of yours, Harry?"

The women turned as one, when the noise became almost deafening and the beast that was responsible for all that ungodly racket burst from the thicket and left the Black women speechless. Harry, however ran toward the newcomer, his joyful eyes gleaming in the headlights of an old friend.

"Ford! Long time no see, mate!" The old Anglia honked weakly in return. Harry walked over to the car and placed a hand on the bonnet. "So, how's life? Anything interesting happen since you helped Ron and me escape from Aragog?"

When Harry got no reply, not even a wink from a headlight, he backed up a little and looked over the old car. The white vinyl top was ripped and torn in places, one of the rear view mirrors was missing and it had a flat tyre. Rust was eating at it badly and and there were holes in the fenders and the lid of the trunk, as well as each of the rear side panels. It had clearly seen better days.

"Tsk, tsk, Ford, old chap, you are a right mess, plain and simple. I guess Mr. Weasley didn't put any preservation charms on you back when he was tinkering around. Surprising, really. Oh, well."

He turned to his three companions, who had watched the exchange in complete silence, utterly fascinated. They knew he was on fairly good terms with the centaurs, apparently and the vampires considered him an ally, all whilst he was making good inroads with the goblins. It made sense now, they supposed. If he could make friends with a car, then who couldn't he befriend?

"Ladies, do you think you could do something for my friend here? It is simply dreadful to see him in such a sad state of repair," Harry said playfully.

Andie, Cissy and Bella giggled at this easygoing side of their lover and proceeded to perform a multitude of charms, most of which Harry had never heard of, aside from the occasional Reparo and Scourgify. A few moments later, the car was in much better shape. Not like new, by any means, but they had managed to mend the tears in the top and any cracked glass and the sisters had also removed the rust.

Unfortunately, the holes eaten into Ford's body by the ferocious rust demons would have to remain, as a Reparo could not fix a gaping hole, especially when the spell did not have anything to replace it with. The foursome waved happily as the car honked cheerfully and gave them a wink of his headlights before it drove away into the bowels of the forest once more. Harry turned to face his ladies, who were looking at him with an bemused expression.

"You blithering idiots flew that thing to Hogwarts when you were twelve?" Bellatrix asked incredulously.

" 'Course!" Harry exclaimed and took a pose and flexed his muscles playfully. "Crashed it into the Whomping Willow, too. And survived, obviously. Unharmed. Well, mostly. It was Ford who got the worst of it. That huge dent in the bonnet was from that time. And the hole in the roof. Come to think of it, that broken window happened then as well."

Andromeda sighed exasperatedly. "I know you and Ronald were blocked from the entrance to nine and three quarters, but why in Merlin's name didn't you simply wait for Molly?"

At that, Harry had the decency to look a little sheepish. "We panicked and it seemed like a really good idea at the time," Harry said and scratched the back of his head.

Narcissa stepped forward and peered up into Harry's eyes, her arms crossed over her chest. "Just how likely are you to do such a foolish thing again?"

Before Harry could answer, Narcissa's sisters turned to her with incredulous expressions. "Are you barking mad, Cissy?" Bella asked disbelievingly. "I'd be surprised if we go through the night without him doing something stupid and life threatening."

"I agree, Bella," Andie said. Then she pounced on Harry and wrapped her hands around his neck. "But I adore how brave he is. Fearless! Resolute!"

Again, before Harry could form any sort of reply, Bella tore her sister from him. "Behave, Andie! There's no need for that. If you want him in your bed, just ask. I'm certain he won't say no."

Blushing a beet red, Harry hastily turned away from the giggling group of girls and set out again toward Hogwarts. They were close and they would reach the edge of the grounds in less than half an hour.


Harry and the women swiftly crossed the Hogwarts grounds after Harry had made certain Fang and Hagrid were asleep. He had almost been overcome with emotion seeing Hagrid after so long, but the knowledge that he'd most likely meet his friend the following morning kept him going. They reached the wall of the castle, around the corner from the doors to the Entrance Hall.

It was a clear night and Harry stared at the sky and the young man spied his owl heading for the Owlery. Noting the position of the stars in the sky, he undid a button on his shirt and reached inside for a necklace he was wearing. The three women looked at him, doing that weird thing where they arched their eyebrows in the exact same way, silently asking what that thing around his neck was.

"This is a keystone. Each of the founders had one, according to Gryffindor. His own this fiery ruby, Slytherin's was a brilliant emerald, Ravenclaw's a stunning sapphire and Hufflepuff's a warm and welcoming yellow silimanite. Mind you, I'm quoting him now. Anyway, they grant the wearer unrestricted access to the castle, though men can only enter the girl's dormitories if they're wearing either Rowena's or Hufflepuff's keystones."

Harry went on. "Now, there are a number of secret tunnels that lead in and out of this castle, but I'd be very surprised to learn that Professor McGonagall has not blocked them, or at least taken measures to limit access. Whatever access points she did not know about before she took over Dumbledore's job, she has learned of by now."

"That makes sense," Andie agreed. "Limit access to only one point to force the enemy onto one location. I'd imagine they have updated the wards to include limits on all kinds of magical transportations, since that incident with the vanishing cabinet. A dreadful oversight, that."

Harry nodded his accord. "While I don't doubt I could get into the castle unseen via the Chamber of Secrets, through a charmed grate by the lake, it would be very unpleasant and unnecessary since Gryffindor told me of a secret entrance only the founders themselves knew about. This time of year, it should be somewhere on the wall beneath the Astronomy tower and from that particular point, it should transport us to the dungeons, a ways away from the Slytherin common room. It changes its location each month and with each location, it transports you to a different, secluded location within the castle."

"A way to enter the castle if it's taken?" Narcissa asked.

He could not resist, he smiled and leaned over and kissed Narcissa and Andromeda passionately. "Yes, exactly." Bellatrix was pouting a bit, so Harry kissed her as well. Not that it was in any way, a chore, of course. "And it will only open to one of the keystones."

The foursome made their way along the wall and eventually, Harry stopped at a point at the wall that was not outstanding in any way. Knowing what they did, it seemed rather too plain, somehow. Harry palmed the keystone and for a moment, nothing happened.

Then, a small door formed in the face of the wall and silently opened. Harry could at once smell the familiar odour of the dungeons, feel the moisture in the air and the faint smell of algae on the wall, which he was certain no one else could detect.

"After you, ladies," Harry said and motioned with his hand. With a smile, the three women entered the castle and once Harry was inside as well, the secret entrance disappeared. They walked on, Harry in the lead, his ears pricked. A few moments later, they passed the Slytherin common room and the three sisters took a long look at the part of the wall where the revolving door would appear when given the proper password. Narcissa gave a disgusted sound, before putting a palm on the wall. She quickly pulled her hand back and turned it around to examine her palm carefully, a slight sneer on her face.

"I never liked this place, you know," Narcissa said coldly. "I told you about what Harry and I discussed and he is right. The constant backstabbing and eye gouging... It's a despicable place, fit only for thieves, rogues, traitors and cut throats. None of us had any friends here. What we had were loose allies that would turn on you the moment someone offered them something of greater value. Or they informed us of a plot, expecting money, or favours in return."

While her sisters said nothing, Harry knew they agreed with Narcissa. Harry motioned for Cissy and the others to come along, and he took Cissy's hand in his own, his thumb rubbing her knuckles softly.

"To be fair, Slytherin house was never supposed to devolve into something like this," Harry said. "It has been slowly subverted from its true legacy over the ages, especially in the last hundred years, or so, with the rise of both Grindelwald and Riddle. In fact, only Gryffindor and Hufflepuff seem to still maintain the original vision of each house and there's no wonder the Lions and Badgers get along so well, for the most part."

By now, they had reached one of the stairs that led out of the dungeons and they ascended into the cellar. Harry took a deep whiff of air and turned to his companions, a small smile on his face.

"I'm hungry. How about you, girls? I was thinking we could visit the kitchens while we wait for the school to settle for the night."

"I suppose Harry, but do we have time for that?" Bellatrix asked, though she was quite hungry. The trip through the forest had been a bit more taxing than she had thought it would be. Her sisters were also a bit peckish, which they made known.

"I'd say so. It is after curfew, but not yet midnight, so there should still be teachers about, as well as the Head boy and girl and let's not forget Filch, or his cat. Also, I have a friend there I wish to see. I'm going to warn you though, he's a tad excitable."

They rounded a corner and when they passed a stack of huge oak barrels on the right hand wall, he stopped and placed a hand on barrel two from the bottom in the middle of the second row.

"Entrance to the Hufflepuff common room," Harry said by way of explanation. "Rumour has it that no one outside of Hufflepuff has been in there since the founding of Hogwarts," Harry said and smiled impishly. "I can tell you that's not true. It's extremely warm and comfortable. Very Hufflepuff."

Down the corridor they continued. Then the girls noticed something strange. At first, they thought they were seeing things, but after a while, it became clear the castle was reacting to Harry's presence. Every torch he walked by, shined a little brighter and every fireplace burned just a tad hotter. It was almost as if it was welcoming a long lost lover or friend. Harry suddenly stopped and closed his eyes. A slow smile spread out on his face as he took a deep breath.

"She's happy I'm back," was all Harry said, before he marched on.

Eventually they found themselves in front of a painting of a bowl of fruit. The sisters had always known the kitchens were in the cellar, but not where, exactly. They watched in amusement as Harry tickled the pear, which caused it to giggle and dart out of the frame, before the painting opened, revealing the entrance.

Harry stepped inside and was at once assaulted by a small creature, who rammed into his feet and hugged him for all he was worth. Narcissa stared in disbelief at the diminutive house elf who had served at Malfoy manor for many years, before he had suddenly disappeared at the end of her... son's second year at Hogwarts. She had assumed the poor elf had angered Mr. Malfoy badly enough that he had not survived his own punishment.

Her former husband was a vile and disgusting man, who enjoyed causing pain and death of lesser beings, but he did not sully his hands with the blood of house elves. Oh no, he made them do it by ordering them to punish themselves in such a way that it was impossible for them to survive.

She felt the bile threaten to erupt and she reached for Harry's hand and squeezed it tightly. She'd been married to that filth, not to mention borne him a son that was no doubt shaping up to be even worse, if he still lived.

She consoled herself with the knowledge that she was now involved with an actual man and how she would relish the chance to throw that in Mr. Malfoy's face, along with the knowledge of just who it was that was making her so happy. And satisfied.

While there was nothing she could do about the past, the future was another matter. She smiled mentally when she considered the looks on the faces of her father and mother if they ever learned what she was going to do.

"Dobby?" she asked, but her question went unheard, the elf's focus unwavering on her lover.

"Great master Harry Potter sir is back! Dobby is so happy!" Great tears started welling from his huge eyes as he wept, completely overcome with joy, seeing the 'greatest wizard in the world' again. "Dobby knows Harry Potter sir is being OK, but Dobby is not knowing where Harry Potter is!"

Harry returned his friend's hug with one of his own, though it was much less fervent. "Hello Dobby. I've missed you. I see you're doing fine and I'm glad. How are things at the castle these days?"

Dobby managed to gather himself and stepped back a little. He turned his eyes toward his friend's companions and backed away a step further when he recognized Narcissa and Bellatrix and was keen enough to understand Andromeda was their sister. What he did not understand was why the great Harry Potter was in their company.

Two of them were evil and the third one... Well, he did know she had been disowned by his former mistress' family. Before he could do anything more, Narcissa knelt in front of him, which took Dobby by surprise. She seemed to be struggling with whatever she was doing, so Dobby stole a glance at Harry, who smiled at him reassuringly.

"Dobby, It's obvious you remember my sister and me. I... I need you to understand it is not easy for me to kneel in front of an elf, but I wish to apologize for any hurt I may have caused you in the past. While I was never physical in my abuse, I am just as guilty as my former husband and later, his son, due to my inaction. I'm trying to do better and Harry is helping me. Will you accept my apology?"

"Mine too?" Bellatrix asked in a slightly strained voice as she knelt stiffly beside her sister. The little elf was almost shaking with fright and darted to hide behind Harry's legs, peeking at the kneeling sisters, his ears drooping and his eyes the size of saucers.

"You is no longer with Dobby's bad master? You is belonging to Harry Potter?" Dobby asked warily.

"We don't belong to anyone, you harebrained elf!" Bellatrix hissed angrily and Dobby's ears drooped even further and he burrowed into Harry's legs. Bella took a deep breath to calm herself. "Dobby, we are Harry's lovers, all three of us. We are helping him fight against the enemy."

Narcissa sighed at her sister's outburst, though she was oddly happy. Bellatrix was obviously almost healed if her temper was any indication.

"Dobby," she said softly. "You do not have to answer right now. Think on it, then decide. We will understand if you can't forgive us, but we hope you do."

Harry smiled at the two sisters and glanced at Andromeda, who was watching both Bella and Cissy with pride. Harry knew that both of them had to swallow quite a bit of pureblood pride and arrogance to ask an elf, of all beings, for his forgiveness and their sister's expression reflected her admiration.

Dobby had the threesome sit down and brought them some food, which they tore into with gusto. The meat pie was amazing as always and the pumpkin juice was cold and refreshing. Again, Harry asked his little friend for news from the castle and quickly learned that, while the atmosphere was heavy and tense and there were no Hogsmeade weekends, things weren't that different.

Headmistress McGonagall had started a class of sorts where students and teachers could talk about the war and their fears and worries. It had been a great help for everyone to share with other people and get things of their chests. It was headed by Madame Pomfrey and led by Ginny Weasley. At the mention of Ginevra, his lovers noticed Harry became a little distant. As Dobby's tale wound down, Harry asked him how Ginny was doing.

"Little miss Wheezy was sad for a long time after master Harry Potter left. Dobby heard her cry and not wanting to meet anyone. Now she is not being so sad and is being friends with Neville. Dobby thinks they is being friends like Harry Potter sir is being friends with mistress Narcissa."

Harry leaned back in his chair when he heard that. He noticed the ladies watching him with interest, but he ignored them for a moment. So... Ginny and Neville. Harry had to admit they seemed a good match. In fact they were most likely a better match than he himself and Ginny would ever have been. At least Neville was not a broody git like he was wont to be. Letting out a deep sigh, Harry got to his feet.

"Well, I'm just glad she found a good man and Neville is one of the best. Well, ladies, shall we get going? The patrols ought be over by now and we should have a clear route to the seventh floor. It was great seeing you and I promise it won't be so long until next time, Dobby," Harry said and hugged his friend again.


Minerva McGonagall sighed tiredly as she entered her private chambers after another long day. How in Merlin's name had Albus, at his age, managed this job, while also being the Supreme Mugwump of the ICW and the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot? She longed for her former position as Transfiguration teacher and knew she would ask for her old job back the minute this war was over. She undid the charm on her hair clip and let her raven hair fall free.

She approached a mirror on the wall and began brushing her hair in slow, precise strokes. She was only sixty four but felt twice that at times and if she looked closely, she could see faint crow's feet starting to form at the corners of her eyes. Not that she cared overly much, she was certainly not wrinkly by any means. She had a good century or so until that began in earnest, but it was a reminder of her mortality.

She was in a rather odd mood this day, and had been for a while, if she was being honest. Exams were around the corner and at this time each year since '91, she had wondered just what kind of trouble certain green eyed young man would find himself in. Huffing softly, she walked over to her cabinet and poured herself a half finger of Ogden's finest. Most women did not drink Firewhiskey, but she was Scottish and Scots drank scotch.

She picked up the glass and tipped it toward a picture of two young people in their Gryffindor robes, smiling happily into the camera. Right next to that one was a picture of an even younger man, joyfully holding the Quidditch cup, his emerald eyes sparkling.

Oh, how she loved to watch Harry crush Slytherin on the pitch. It was unprofessional, but in this one instance, she didn't care. Having once been on the end of a very nasty foul which broke her body and ensured the Slytherins the Cup that same year. Ruddy, cheating snakes...

She had always tried to separate her personal life from her professional one, but Lily and James had always been such special people and their son even more so. She sat on the sofa, in front of her fire and took a small sip of her whiskey, enjoying the slight burn and wondered if the young man was still among the living.

She unfolded a piece of parchment on the coffee table and tapped it with her wand. Hogwarts appeared before her and she carefully scanned the castle with seasoned eyes. This was a nightly ritual for her and one she shared with Filius, Pomona, the new Slytherin and Gryffindor heads Sinistra and Babbling, as well as miss Weasley and Mr. Longbottom.

And Nymphadora, if she was in the castle. Quite a lot of people, she mused. Before bed, all of them would take a few minutes and examine the castle via the map. It made them all feel a lot safer to at least check.

While her eyes systematically roamed the very impressive map, she again allowed her thoughts to wander to Harry, as they so often did after she'd had a few sips of old Ogden's. Her eyes darted to a cluster of names near the lower edge of the map, near the kitchens and she dropped the tumbler in her hand when her earlier musings were answered before her eyes.

Moving away from the kitchens at a brisk pace was none other than Harry James Potter, accompanied by... Andromeda Black, Bellatrix Black and Narcissa Black? Minerva stared at the names, in absolute disbelief. The map never lied, but could it be wrong? It was doubtful, but this was a copy of the original. Perhaps Filius and Bathsheda had made a mistake? Rather unlikely, that.

She kept following the group of people and noticed they moved along the castle with the efficiency of someone who knew every shortcut, every secret pathway and the movements of every stair. That certainly lent credence to the possibility that Harry might actually be the one leading those women about the castle.

Not to mention how he got into the castle unnoticed. She should not have been overly surprised, really. With Albus gone, she doubted there was a person alive who knew the castle better than Harry Potter.

She had never told anyone, but she had almost caught him many a time, when he was out exploring by himself after curfew, wearing his father's cloak. Especially in his second and fourth years. She had let it go unpunished, because she knew he needed to be alone sometimes and no wonder, given his life.

The dots finally came to a stop on the seventh floor where she knew the tapestry featuring Barnabas the Barmy was hanging and she knew of course what room was beyond the opposite wall. She quickly grabbed her galleon, that fine invention by Miss Granger and sent Nymphadora message that told her to meet her on the seventh floor.


Andie, Bella and Cissy were extremely impressed. When Harry had told them he knew his way around the castle better than anyone, that Filch would look like a tourist compared to him, they had figured he was boasting, at least a little. As it turned out, he wasn't boasting at all.

He quickly led them through the castle's winding staircases, hidden passages and shortcuts they had never known about. To be fair, there had been one staircase which Harry had called to him via the Keystone, so it wasn't all Harry, but close enough.

To avoid Peeves, they took a little detour on the fifth floor, past a plain door which Harry told them was the entrance to Ravenclaw tower. While most Hogwarts students knew in very general terms where in the castle the other houses were, very few knew the exact location of the entrances into all the common rooms.

They were all password protected, of course and there was a charm that prevented students from revealing the location of the entrances of their respective houses. That wasn't to say students couldn't discover them on their own, however. The charms were designed to fail if the castle was breached.

Eventually, they reached the seventh floor and Harry stopped at the intersection at the top of the stairs and turned his gaze in the opposite direction, toward the Gryffindor common room. Heaving a long sigh, he made his way toward the tapestry of Barnabas the Barmy. They walked along in silence, the sisters understanding the turbulent state of his emotions at the time.

He was grateful to them and maintained the silence. Until they reached a rarely travelled area of the seventh floor, where Harry stopped in front of a tapestry that pictured a number of trolls and of course Barnabas the Barmy.

"We're here," Harry said and turned to the wall opposite the tapestry. "There's a room here I think we should check first. I wondered if Riddle had stored the diadem in the Chamber of Secrets somewhere, but I doubt it. It would be too easy to figure that one out, to make the connection. Now, in order for this room to appear, you simply pace the floor in front of the tapestry three times while thinking about what you need. My friends and I call it The Room of Requirement."

Harry started pacing in front of his old pal Barnabas, all the while thinking he needed to find the lost diadem. Once he'd made the third pass, a door materialized on the wall. It was strangely official looking.

Narcissa and Andie walked up to the door and put their hands on it. "How did you find it, Harry?" Andie asked and backed away from the door.

"Dobby told me about it a few years ago. Apparently, the elves have their own name for it; 'The Come and go room'".

Harry approached the door and opened it warily, not knowing what would greet him on the other side. Whatever he'd been expecting, it certainly wasn't what he discovered once he'd opened the door. It was a massive room with heaps and heaps of all kinds of junk.

Clothes, books and jewellery were strewn haphazardly all over the place. Racks of weapons and armour lined one wall and even a few banners and standards hung from the rafters.

Andie was the first one to understand what they were looking at. "Are you telling me Riddle hid the diadem in the Lost and Found?"

"It's brilliant when you think about it. This room holds a thousand years worth of... things," Narcissa said. "It will take ages to find it, Harry. If it's even here at all."

Harry pinched the bridge of his nose and Bellatrix took his hand in hers, lacing his fingers with her own. Then he looked up and grinned.

"No, it won't. I'll just ask the room for something to help me find a Horcrux, it should be provided. I'm sorry, ladies, but I'd really rather you weren't here for this. I'd like for you to stand guard outside. These Horcruxes are extremely dangerous and I do not want to run the risk of it attempting to possess any of you."

As he expected, they started to object, but he did not relent. This was his fight and he was finally beginning to see the end of it. In the end though, he only managed to get Andromeda and Narcissa to accept leaving the room and only after giving into their demands that Bella go with him. Their hands interlocked, Harry and Bellatrix entered the room and Harry told the room not to open for anyone, except Narcissa or Andromeda.

Once inside, Harry asked the room for something he could use to look for a Horcrux and a second later, a device appeared in his hand. Remembering some films he'd seen, Harry recognized it as some variation of the thing the Muggles used to detect radiation. Geiger meter, or something like that.

Harry grinned and turned on the device and set about searching for the soul shard. They walked around the room in silence, the whatsit doing its thing. Harry could feel Bellatrix was sad, and he had noticed a somewhat dejected look form on her face a few times when she thought he wasn't paying attention.

At one point, they passed a table, on top of which lay a familiar bottle cap necklace. Harry sighed. People were still taking Luna's things and hiding them? Fuckers. Harry picked it up and put it in his pocket. He would return it to Luna as soon as possible.

A few minutes later, they found the diadem lying on a table, among all kinds of junk. Harry willed the contraption in his hand to disappear and turned to Bella, who stared at the diadem with look of utter dismay on her beautiful face. He grasped her hands and sat them down on a bench he had asked the room to provide. She did not stop looking at the circlet, her eyes almost transfixed. Harry palmed her cheek and she unconsciously leaned into his touch as he turned her towards him.

"Bella, what's wrong?"

She took a deep, shaking breath. "Merlin, I hate being this weak," she mumbled. "Harry, we did not ask to come with you simply to help. We all want to spend as much time with you as possible. You may not have considered that, and we don't blame you. Merlin knows you have enough shit to worry about, but as things stand, with each one of these," she said and gestured toward the Horcrux with her hand, "you destroy, you move further away from us. After today, we are one step closer to never seeing you again and it's like knife in the heart."

Harry let out a deep sigh. "I think about it constantly, Bellatrix. I don't feel any better about it than you do, believe me. I keep asking myself why I let myself fall in love with you three when I knew what lay in store, but I just can't help myself. Whenever I think of you, or your sisters, I feel so warm and fuzzy, you can't imagine it. When I woke up with Narcissa this morning, I felt better than I ever have, I was on top of the bloody world and I know I will feel the exact same way with you and Andie, if we get there. I do not regret anything, Bella and I am glad to be experiencing these emotions with you all."

Bella smiled at him, before her gaze became a little wistful as she stared at nothing past Harry's shoulder. "I knew I should have pulled you into that broom closet we passed on the fifth floor! Oh, well, I suppose this bench shall have to do," she said and straddled his lap, then proceeded to snog him within an inch of his life.

A minute later, Harry stumbled to his feet, his coat lying on the floor, his shirt mostly unbuttoned and his belt unbuckled. With an inhuman effort of will, Harry had somehow managed to stop them from going further by insisting their first time together would not take place on a rickety bench in the bloody lost and found room at Hogwarts. And absolutely not in front of a piece of Riddle's soul. No, when they did that, it would be in a bed where they could take their time and do things properly.

"You're no fun, Harry," Bella breathed as she fought to regain her breath. "It would have been so wickedly naughty!"

Harry huffed as he threw his coat over the back of the bench and extended his hand to help her up. As soon as she took it, Harry yanked her up from the bench and gave her a toe curling kiss.

"Let's get to it," Harry said and Bella nodded breathlessly. They started toward the table holding the Horcrux when Bella suddenly faltered, her face etched in pure, unadulterated fear.

"It's speaking to me, Harry," she said in a shaking voice. "I can hear it inside my head, promising things, that it will all be alright if I only take the diadem and put it on. It says it can save you!" Her eyes widened in shock and she took a step toward the cursed thing, her hand reaching for it. Harry grabbed her and pulled her into an embrace, but she struggled to get free.

"Bella! Look at me, love!" The woman in his arms slowly stopped struggling and raised her eyes to his. "This is why I did not want you three in here. I know these things try to entice people with the things they desire the most. Can you imagine the trouble if Cissy and Andie had been here as well? This thing cannot save me, but it will most certainly kill you, should you grab it. Take a deep breath and calm down."

Bella did as Harry asked and after a few shuddering breaths, she had calmed down enough for Harry to let her go. "Merlin, Harry, how can you stand it? It knew things about me, about us."

Harry shrugged. "I've always been strong willed. I just focus on what I need to do. These things attack me a bit differently than they do others, I've gathered. They try to force all the love out of my soul, to replace it with the darkness and hatred of Riddle's soul. But therein lies the key, Bella. I take the part of the bastard's soul within myself and expel it and destroy it with my affection and love for my precious people. I imagine this one should be rather easy, since I've discovered such breathtaking love since the last time I did this. You three sisters have provided me with everything I need to destroy that thing."

Harry stepped up to the table and stared at the diadem for a moment, before he turned to his companion once more, his face etched in stone. "When I pick this up, it will immediately attack me. Whatever you do, do not touch me, or the diadem. I have no idea what it looks like from the outside, but grabbing these things hurts like ten bludgers thumping you at once, but you must let whatever happens run its course. Is that clear, Bella?" She nodded reluctantly.

Harry's eyes hardened. "Is that clear, Bellatrix, or do I have to send you from the room?"

"I'll behave, Harry."

Steeling himself, Harry picked up the diadem and fell to his knees at once, his mind almost instantly overcome. The white hot pain that shot through his head was on a completely different level than before. Harry felt his jaw clench painfully hard and his eyes clamped shut. An image of his own headstone flashed by and his head hurt even more.

Still holding the diadem, he fell to the side and curled into a fetal position as his mind was flooded with images of Narcissa's dead, mangled body, only to be replaced with an image of Andie in a ripped dress, her arms covering her chest in a vain attempt at modesty.

Her vacant eyes were a clear indication of what had happened to her, as was the dark laughter Harry heard echoing in the imaginary room. Finally, Bellatrix appeared, lying in a bathtub, the water red with blood, her wand floating on the surface. One arm hung limply over the edge of the tub, blood dripping down on the floor from her wrist.

Harry mentally sobbed as the images kept looping around in his mind. This was his fault, his doing. If he hadn't been so weak, if he had just stayed away and not fallen in love with them, these women might have been able to live somewhat happy lives.

Sure, they would have had to stay under the Fidelius, but at least they'd have been safe. He would have to leave them. Then, he could take the power the Horcrux offered and kill all those who opposed him and he could rule over a perfect world where such things never happened to anyone...

NO!

He was not going to leave them! He had accepted he loved them and that they loved him. It would be cruel and evil to discard them like that and he would never do it willingly. He would find a way to remove the Horcrux from his soul and he would love those women for the rest of his life. Once Riddle had been defeated, he would devote every fibre of his being to making them happy, whatever it took.

An image of Narcissa standing next to him slowly emerged in the painful haze that was his mind and Bellatrix joined her sister and finally, Andromeda arrived and all three women embraced Harry at once, whispering their love to him and Harry felt his heart swell with joy and happiness. But he could feel the presence of a few others, but he was unable to identify them, but they, whoever they were, gave him more strength.

He felt the diadem grow hot in his hands and finally, he felt the foreign presence being forcefully ejected from his mind and he relaxed, rolled onto his back and let go of the purged jewellery. He barely managed to fractionally open his eyes to see Bella's tear streaked face hovering above his. He gave her an exhausted smile, before he faded into oblivion.


Headmistress McGonagall ascended the stairs at almost a run, her mind working furiously, trying to understand why Harry Potter was at Hogwarts, almost two years since he'd last been seen. And why on earth he was accompanied by those three women, of all people. She heard running footsteps behind her and knew Nymphadora was joining her.

"What is it, Minerva?"

The older woman did not respond until they had crested the stairs and started down the corridor that held the Room of Requirements.

"I assume you did not check the map before you left your quarters, Nymphadora?"

Despite feeling irritated at Minerva's use of her name, the former Auror simply shook her head in denial, her pink hair flowing. "No, I rushed straight out, since you mentioned it was urgent. Why?"

"You'll see," Minerva said as she rounded the corner and found a pair of witches pacing anxiously outside the Room of Requirements. The intruders stopped in their tracks and stared at the newly arrived women.

"Mum! Aunt Narcissa!" Tonks exclaimed, completely forgetting the Headmistress was there. Minerva looked at the young woman, wondering why she wasn't more surprised. "What the bloody hell are you two doing here? Where's Bellatrix?" A sudden thought entered her mind and her gaze hardened as she turned it onto the door. "Is Harry in there?"

At that, McGonagall glared at Tonks, her mouth a firm line. How long had she known Harry was alive? Had she also known where he was? Whatever had possessed her to keep such knowledge to herself? But if she knew, then Minerva was fairly certain Remus knew as well.

The Headmistress' steely gaze was making Tonks uncomfortable and she started to fidget and play with her hair, which had turned from pink curls to lanky and mousy brown. She had never been able to handle McGonagall's disapproving gaze, even as an adult.

"He asked Remus and me to keep it to ourselves, Minerva. My husband wanted to tell the Order, but I stopped him. You know Harry does not give his trust easily and just thinking of breaking it makes me want to cry."

Minerva nodded slowly. She did in fact know her former cub had trust issues and she could not begrudge him that. She liked to think she was one of the few fortunate enough to be held in his confidence, even if she herself had often felt it was undeserved. His stay with those thrice cursed Muggles weighed heavily on her and she knew she had to talk to the lad soon, but there were other things more pressing at the moment.

"Andromeda, would you care to enlighten me as to why you have come to the castle uninvited in the dead of night? I find it most disturbing that you would bring a ghalla* like your sister Bellatrix to this place that is full of children."

Minerva was getting worked up and sometimes, her thick Scottish brogue would find its way onto her tongue, as well as her propensity for foul language that would emerge in Scottish Gaelic when she was particularly upset. She had gotten better at curbing those habits as she got older, though.

Before Andie got a chance to answer Minerva, the door opened and Bellatrix stepped through, her face haggard and haunted. She held some kind of an ornament in her hand which McGonagall instantly recognized as Rowena's lost diadem. After centuries of adventurers looking for it all over the world, the bloody thing had been in the castle the whole while? Her line of thought was interrupted when she noticed what Bellatrix was levitating behind her.

On a conjured stretcher floating in the air behind Voldemort's right hand lay a young man Minerva had never seen before. Or so she believed at first. He was obviously tall and powerfully built, dark of hair and on his forehead, she recognized a familiar lightening shaped scar that was bleeding heavily.

She heard Andromeda and Narcissa both gasp in dismay at the sight of Harry Potter lying motionless on the stretcher, a long coat draped over him. They both rushed forward and Andie immediately started waving her wand over the young man.

"He won't wake. I'm no good with diagnostic charms, Andie. What's wrong with him?" Bellatrix asked frantically.

Andie was silent for a while as she cast several charms in succession, before she straightened and turned to her sister, who was starting to panic.

"He's suffering from severe magical exhaustion, Bella. What happened in there?"

"Well, we found the diadem and Harry was right, there was one of those disgusting Horcruxes trapped within. He... He destroyed it, and became like this at the end of it."

"What is a Horcrux and why did Harry become like this?" Minerva asked in a quiet voice.

Bella sighed deeply and revealed to the headmistress what a Horcrux was and that Riddle had made a few. Then, she told Minerva and Tonks just how Harry went about destroying those vile things. At the end, Tonks was in tears and Minerva barely managed to suppress a sob.

Uncharacteristically, she ran a hand through Harry's hair and stroked his cheek with her knuckles. No one in the vicinity had ever seen the former Transfiguration professor, whose stern demeanour was quite legendary look so soft and vulnerable.

"Oh, Harry, sweetheart. Your life has never been easy, has it?"

She took a deep breath and collected herself and had her stern visage back in place in the blink of an eye. She conjured a blanket and draped it over Harry to keep him warm and snapped her fingers.

"Dobby!" The excitable house elf appeared with a slight pop and cried out in alarm when he noticed Harry on the stretcher.

"Take Mr. Potter to the guest room of my private quarters and dress him down in the bed." When Dobby did not move, McGonagall got down to one knee and put one hand on Dobby's small shoulder. "Harry will be fine, he just needs a few day's rest, I believe. Now, go quickly! Make certain no one sees you." Dobby nodded his head, took hold of the stretcher and disappeared with a pop.

McGonagall took out her wand and shot her cat Patronus in the general direction of the Hospital wing. Her friend Poppy was a light sleeper and would rouse quickly. She did not notice the slight narrowing of Narcissa's eyes as she followed the Patronus. Motioning for the others to follow, Minerva started walking toward her office at a brisk pace.

"I dare not put Mr. Potter in the Hospital wing. There are a few students in this school I cannot trust and if word was to get out he was there, unable to defend himself, the temptation might prove to be too much for some."

Bellatrix scowled at that. "If anyone so much as sneezes at my Harry, I will flay them alive," she snarled viciously.

Minerva raised an eyebrow at that. "Which brings me to your presence here, Bellatrix and Narcissa, another topic I will see us discussing this night, once Poppy has taken a look at Mr. Potter," the older woman said firmly. The other four women nodded their assent, a bit cowed in the presence of the Headmistress.


Madam Pomfrey started awake when a familiar voice echoed throughout her dwellings and she sat up to find a Patronus she'd seen quite a few times before in her life bouncing around the room. It came to a stop when it saw Poppy rise from her bed and spoke in Minerva's voice.

"Poppy, we have a situation and it is very urgent. Please make your way to my quarters as soon as you're able."

Without hesitation, Poppy donned an acceptable robe and grabbed a large satchel she always had on hand in her quarters. This was a school, after all and children could have accidents at all hours of the day and she might not always have the time to go to her storeroom for her supplies.

She then set out for Minerva's office at a quick walk and found herself in front of the gargoyle that guarded the stairwell which led to the Headmistress's office. Without the prompt of a password, the statue allowed the matron to pass and she climbed the winding stairs quickly.

What most people didn't know was that the school's head office was not the apex of those stairs. The staircase seemed to end at a wall, right next to the entrance to the office, but it was in fact a charm, not dissimilar to the one that was used on the barrier between the Muggle world and the platform of nine and three quarters. Knowing this, and knowing she was allowed entry, Poppy marched right past the entrance to Minerva's office and through the wall.

Fifteen winding steps later, another door was revealed at the top of the staircase, which Poppy opened and let herself in. She spotted Minerva and young Nymphadora, but stopped dead in her tracks when she recognized the other three women in the room. Reminding herself that there was an emergency, she ignored the Black sisters and eyed McGonagall pointedly and after a motion from her friend, headed toward the guest room.

Poppy rushed to the bed and had to take a deep breath to calm herself when she saw the scar on her patient's forehead. Harry was back? She recognized at once that he had almost completely exhausted his magical reserves, which prompted her to give him a potion to help the body replenish them.

She knew Harry had always had power to spare, but when she waved her wand, she gasped audibly. How in Merlin's name was he so far ahead of where he should be? It was fifteen or twenty years too early in his case, to exhibit such potential for magic. She administered a few vials of energy potions and vitamins, before she allowed herself to relax a little and set about taking a look at his obviously magically changed body.

To her dismay, she found his back terribly scarred, at least half a dozen badly mended wounds as well as bones that had been healed adequately by someone skilled, but not as soon as she would have liked. The way the scars on his back had been healed suggested Nymphadora, which further implied she'd known, at least for some time that the young man had been alive. Ignoring her irritation, she fingered Harry's strange ears and the outline of an eye socket and opened an eye, frowning at the strange pupil.

On impulse, she put a finger inside his upper lip and gently raised it a fraction and saw a canine tooth that did not belong to any human. She trailed her fingers along a strange scar on his neck below his ear and found an identical one on the other side. She could not imagine what they were, but her initial thought of them being scars was most likely incorrect. The edges were much to precise and the placement on each side was too accurate.

The door opened and five concerned witches entered the room, led by Narcissa Malfoy. Poppy watched with a raised eyebrows as Mrs. Malfoy quickly made her way over to her patient, her face etched in worry. Now, what was the story there?

"Will he be alright, Madame Pomfrey?" Narcissa asked in a near whisper as she took a hold of his hand.

"I believe he will sleep for a few days, while his magic replenishes itself, but he will be fine. Not that it should be any of your concern, Narcissa Malfoy!" The matron hissed venomously. The younger witch's face darkened at that.

"Now, see here, Pomfrey! You..." she began, only to be interrupted by a silencio cast by Minerva.

"That's enough!" she said, her stern gaze levelling on the sisters. "I do not think any of us are in the proper state of mind for a meaningful discussion at the moment. Andromeda, take your sisters and go home for the night. I expect you here by eight o'clock in the morning, sharp. The Floo will unlock a little before then."

Bellatrix and Narcissa started objecting, but Minerva was adamant and Andromeda finally took her sisters by the hand and led her reluctant siblings and distressed daughter away. When the door closed, McGonagall walked over to Poppy, who was staring at Harry with a sad frown on her face.

"I remember the first time Harry came to the hospital wing. He was so small and frail looking. Well, he always did have his father's lithe build, even after he got his growth spurt, but this is... Min, what's happened to his body, and I don't mean all these injuries, but everything else, it's..."

She showed Minerva the canine teeth she'd discovered earlier, as well as his slitted pupils, which prompted the Headmistress to gasp in shock.. "He isn't human any more!"

Poppy shook her head in defeat and started putting away her supplies. She had seen almost anything the wizarding world had to offer, but this was beyond her. Minerva placed a hand on her shoulder and and thanked her, then told her to go back to bed, that she would keep an eye on him and let her know if there was any change.


Once Poppy was gone, Minerva sent messages to all the Weasleys, as well as Moody and Shacklebolt and Hestia. Well, most of the Order, really. People she trusted one and all. She knew the Weasleys would all bring their significant others, so the group she wanted there at nine in the morning would be complete.

Once she was done with all that, she went to the guest room again and sat down in a chair by Harry's bedside. She took hold of his hand and let her thumb trace the outlines of the scars that filthy Toad's quill had left behind. Her eyes roamed over what she could see of his body, but she ignored most of the new scars, instead focusing on the ones she had known about. She turned Harry's hand to let the fingers of her free hand trace the scar Pettigrew had given him on the inside of his right arm when Riddle had been resurrected.

Oh, how she wanted to sink her claws into that bloody radan*. She took a deep breath as she was getting worked up again. As a general rule, Minerva did not allow herself to hate people, doing so could and likely would lead to errors in judgement.

But she did hate Peter Pettigrew. No, she did not hate him, she loathed him with every fibre of her being. There was not only the fact that he, one of her Lions, had been responsible for James' and Lily's deaths, he had gone even further and used Harry's own blood to resurrect their murderer.

Her fingers traced both the scar on Harry's shoulder, given to him by the Horntail, as well as the scar he'd gotten when he'd faced the basilisk in his second year. In second year he had battled and killed a monster most wizards thought was but a legend.

She shook her head and eyed herself balefully in a mirror on the wall. Given how things had been at Nr. Four Privet Drive, Harry had always seen the school as his home and Hogwarts was supposed to be safe. Minerva sighed sadly and a single tear escaped and ran down her cheek.

She had failed her young lion so many times, she doubted she would ever be able to look him in the eyes again. Somehow, the mere thought of Harry hating her, him not wanting to talk to her or see her ever again was utterly unbearable.

She took a deep breath and started to rise from her chair, but when she did, Harry gripped her hand, surprising Minerva, whose eyes shot toward the young man who was still clearly unconscious. Despite herself, she smiled a small smile and sat back in the chair and allowed herself to soak in the feeling of Harry holding her hand. She conjured a blanket for herself and set her wand to rouse her just before eight o'clock.


Minerva woke up as the door to the room opened and quickly released Harry's hand, hoping whoever had opened the door had not seen her blatant display of affection. Bellatrix Lestrange peeked inside before entering with her sisters. Apparently they were early and not content with waiting to be summoned. They made their way over to the bed and conjured chairs for themselves and settled comfortably into them. This was going to be a difficult conversation.

"How is he?" Bellatrix asked in a worried voice as she gazed at her lover.

"There's been little change," Minerva said softly. "He will be fine, all he needs is rest. Now, I'm a little curious as to why Bellatrix Lestrange-"

"Black."

"Pardon?"

"My name. Bellatrix Black. We're all Blacks now, McGonagall. Harry, as the Head of House Black dissolved my marriage to Lestrange and Narcissa's to Malfoy. Once that was done, he welcomed us into the family Black once more."

Minerva stared at the three women. Harry had done what? While she had known Harry had been Sirius' heir, he had not been raised in magical society and this was a politically supercharged move. She was certain Harry had not understood the full ramifications of that act before he put quill to parchment.

Purebloods did not end marriages. It simply wasn't the done thing. Oh, most families did leave a clause in their contracts, but they were idle threats in most cases. Things were always settled somehow, usually to the chagrin of the women involved. Once word of this got out, it would effectively turn the Wizengamot on its head. She turned a hard gaze on Narcissa.

"Did you have something to do with this?"

Narcissa smiled at the Headmistress. "No. He did that all on his own. I would imagine it was something my cousin Sirius had set into motion before he died. Harry will have understood the implications himself. He is extremely sharp," Narcissa said and looked at her sleeping lover with pride.

Minerva narrowed her eyes and turned them on Bellatrix again. "A change of name does not equate to a change of heart. Something happened and both of you will tell me what your intentions are towards Mr. Potter."

"He saved all of our lives, Minerva," Andie said. "You know what happened to Narcissa and how the vigilante saved her. I assume you've realized by now that Harry and he are the same person. Harry gave me back my younger sister. Then, a few months later, he gave Bella to us when he broke a pair of decades old compulsion charms placed upon her by our father and Riddle. And myself, I was slowly losing a battle against depression. The return of my sisters and Harry's presence has brought me back."

Minerva paled as she understood the implications of Andie's words. No wonder Bellatrix had been the way she'd been. The poor woman.

"I am so sorry, Bellatrix. I cannot imagine what you've been through."

Bella waved away her concerns. "I've come to terms with it. Harry and Andie helped me get there. He's amazing, Professor. I cannot imagine my life without him any longer. In fact, none of us can."

Minerva stared at each woman disbelievingly. "You cannot mean..."

"Yes, Minerva," Andie said. "We are all in love with Harry and he with us. It happened quickly and it has taken a fierce hold of us all. None of us understand why or how, but it is there and it is as real as anything any of us have ever felt. Harry doesn't know, but we three have taken steps to make certain."

Noticing the time, Minerva got to her feet and straightened her robes. "The Order will be arriving in my office in a few moments. I need to go prepare. Might I suggest you three stay here? I don't know what will happen if Bellatrix suddenly appeared in that room. Rest assured, however, this conversation is not over," Minerva said and stood up.

"Oh, we have quite a few things we would like to discuss with you, Minerva McGonagall," Andromeda said coldly and turned a level gaze upon the Headmistress. "Most of it has to do with Harry and his life so far, as well as Dumbledore's part in it. Harry has told us of his life and we are very unhappy with the way Dumbledore seems to have planned Harry's life in almost minute detail, as if he was grooming him for a predetermined end."

"I'm fairly certain Harry does not realize this yet. Soon, he will tell you and the others of a secret that is not mine to share, but one I think may force you to think differently of Albus Dumbledore," Narcissa said to a stunned McGonagall and turned her attention back to Harry.

"What will you tell the Order?" Andie asked.

Collecting herself, Minerva answered. "Aside from you three? Everything I know."

Andie nodded and handed Minerva a backpack. "I suppose it's for the best. Here, take this. I believe you have two items in your office, a diary and a ring? I assume you've realized from our conversation yesterday what they are?"

Minerva nodded, then opened the bag and studied the items and furrowed her brow. These were all former Horcruxes? Legendary items all. There were a few other items in there, such as a sword and pair of arm guards. She gave the sisters a quick nod and stalked out of the room. Once the door closed, Narcissa turned toward Bella with a strange expression on her face.

"What?" Bella asked.

"I noticed something interesting last night. Minerva's Patronus is a cat and her Animagus form is a cat as well. And you know she was also the head of Gryffindor for many years and she cares for Harry a great deal."

"Oh, Merlin's saggy balls," Bella said in a defeated voice. "You don't think she's 'the Cat', do you?"

"You know, that wouldn't surprise me at all," Andie said in a mirthful voice. "She's even more protective of Harry than we are."

While Cissy chuckled, Bella sighed wearily. She was scared of exactly two people in the world. Tom Riddle and Minerva McGonagall. She let her gaze rise to the ceiling. Somewhere, someone was having way too much fun with all of this...


Ginny Weasley was silently cursing Tonks as the bubbly young woman led her down the stairs of the girls dormitories and into the common room. It was a Sunday and she had planned to have a little lie in. She followed Tonks out of the common room and into the hall to find Neville and Luna standing there, waiting for them. She and her... boyfriend? eyed each other, before falling in with Tonks. Luna walked alone, humming quietly to herself, seemingly unconcerned.

"What's going on," Ginny asked as they made their way to Professor McGonagall's office. "Why does the Headmistress need to see us?"

Tonks glanced at her as she slowed down a little and allowed them to walk beside her. "Something happened last night that affects all of us and I don't think we should talk about it here, out in the open."

"That's quite serious," Neville remarked as they marched on. "Has she summoned all of the 'club', then?"

Ginny gave Tonks an attentive look. "You know what this is about, Dora."

"Of course I know, midget. I'm an adult," Tonks said and took on a mock air of importance. Which deflated the moment she saw the look of extreme scepticism on her friend's faces. "I'm mostly an adult?"

The three friends laughed heartily and Tonks was glad she was able to lighten their moods a little since this meeting was going to be bloody hard on everyone. It was going to be chuck full of atom bombs, going off in quick succession.

They reached the gargoyle, Tonks uttered the password and led the other three up the stairs. They entered the office and found it almost full of people. All of them were comfortable, however, as the room was charmed to expand whenever it was crowded.

Ginny and Neville went to join the Weasleys and Hermione. Fred and George were standing there, looking unusually serious, their arms holding their betrothed, Alicia Spinnet and Angelina Johnson. Ginny had to raise an eyebrow at that. The twins were never this serious. To Ginny's surprise, Lee Jordan was also there and Katie Bell, his girlfriend was beside him.

Hestia, Kingsley and a few others were there as well. McGonagall had clearly called every senior member of the Order here. The Floo flashed green and her brother Bill came through, alone, looking like he'd not slept much. Ginny frowned at that. Bill and Fleur had been having problems and while her brother had refused to elaborate on what happened, it was clear whatever it was he and Fleur were dealing with was getting worse.

"Morning, everyone," Bill said and moved over to stand with Ginny.

"Where's Fleur?" she asked her brother in a whisper.

"She's... staying with a friend. We had an epic row a few days ago and she has not been returning my Floo calls. Until this morning, that is."

Ginny sighed and leaned over to Hermione and asked her if she knew what was going on, why everyone was so grim, but her friend shook her head. Neville eyed the bushy haired witch with interest.

"No, but apparently it's serious enough that professor McGonagall is demanding an oath of secrecy. On our magic," Hermione said.

Ginny stared at Hermione and Neville let out a low whistle. Oaths on one's magic were never to be taken lightly. Break it and at best, you lost your magic and at worst, you lost your life. The Floo flashed once again and the most gorgeous woman any person in the room had ever seen emerged from the fireplace, looking completely immaculate.

Every woman in the room became just a little annoyed at that. No one came out of the Floo looking that perfect, it simply was not possible. Ginny noticed Fleur did not come and stand with Bill, but instead, went and stood by herself, a little out of the way. McGonagall cleared her throat and tapped her finger on the table. She was clearly nervous, which set everyone on edge. McGonagall didn't get visibly nervous. Ever.

"Good morning. Now that we are all here, I would like to officially call this meeting to order. Alastor could not be here this morning. Severus sent him a message and he went to investigate. Now, as you are all aware of by now, I am going to ask all of you to take an oath of secrecy on your magic. Once it's done, I'll need everyone to place their wands in this box as some people in here may become... emotional during this discussion."

One by one, the people in the room performed the oath, after which every person did a lumos in order to prove they'd been sincere. Once everyone else was done, Minerva herself finished the sequence and placed her wand in the box and closed it carefully. She let her eyes roam the room for a minute before taking a deep, steadying breath.

"Mr. Potter has returned..."

*Rhadan: Rat

*Ghalla: Bitch