Disclaimer: I'm going to buy Harry Potter and characters from J.K. Rowling… But I need to raise some money first, say … couple o' millions maybe?
A/N: I'm sorry for not updating for along time, but as it appears only a few readers appear to be intersted; anyway I just want to Thank Jarno for his review, and ... On with the story
Joining Forces
Pierce opened his eyes slowly finding himself looking at a sky-blue ceiling; he took a deep breath almost wincing in pain, and a smell of disinfectant came to his nose before descending to his lungs, he coughed in response and remained lying; lids closed. A minute has passed before he heard someone opening the door to the room, and a sweet smell of jasmine filled his lungs this time; he felt so refreshed by the smell and didn't want to exhale it. He turned his head to see the owner of this sweet smell only to catch the face of a red-haired young doctor, he looked into her eyes and felt as if all the worries came down of his shoulders; he felt so relieved. They stood like this for a couple of seconds before she stepped into the room with smile on her face that Pierce can only describe it as an 'Angel Smile'; and he was the first to break the silence.
"Am I in Heaven?" Pierce asked jokily grinning.
"Not yet …" He felt his heart float as she spoke the words in a voice that suits her angelic face.
"Bummer" Pierce replied instantly "Because I thought you were an Angel"; he nearly swore that he saw a hint of blush in her cheeks at his words.
"Actually, you were nearly there; but thank Mer … God you weren't" She said trying to regain her composure.
"Well, I still have miles to creep and promises to keep before going" Pierce said comically; and his heart leapt again as he heard her chuckle softly 'She can't be a mere human' he thought to himself 'She is truly an Angel'
Pierce kicked himself mentally before going deep in his thoughts 'You are a family man dammit; you have a wonderful wife and a sweet daughter, so stop acting like a Hormone-Raged teenager; she has a hot body, yes; but you are loyal to your wife and you hit on girls just to tease her'
"Mr. McLaden, are you alright?" the doctor looked at him with confusion.
"Yes" Pierce snapped out of his thoughts and smiled at her.
"I was just saying that even with your stable condition you have to take long vacation; even consider a career change" She said warily
"WHAT? Is my injury that serious?" Pierce exclaimed almost jumping out of bed; he groaned at his sore body, but he froze as he felt a hand on his shoulder and another on his chest; the doctor was at his side pushing him gently back to the bed, he felt his soreness fade away by the gentle touch of hers 'Who is she?' he thought to himself again 'I never felt that jumpy except when I first met Lydia; is it …' he chased the thought away violently causing the doctor more concern.
"Mr. McLaden" The doctor said with a worried voice "Do you need to sleep a little bit?"
"No, please carry on Dr …" Pierce said shaking his head
"Weasley …" The doctor said causing Pierce to become notice suddenly
"Are you by any chance …" Pierce asked slowly "Related to Ronald Weasley?"
"Yes, actually he is my brother, why?" She said calmly.
"Nothing …" 'Well, that's another reason for not hitting on her, Wes boy might skin me alive' Pierce gave himself a mental note.
"Mr. McLaden, I have to inform you that your condition may turn really serious if you continued your work in the police force; the action will only cause more complications; your bones cannot take more hits" Ginny said in a doctor tone, but he can here a hint of concern in her voice.
"Please doctor, can't you do anything that can help me regain my former health, because I won't leave my job; my partners, including your brother, depend on me; and I won't let them down" He said the last words firmly
Ginny looked stunned before blurting "I know, he can be a pain in the arse sometimes; he never changes since the days of Hogwa …" her speech came to a halt as she registered what she were about to say; but not fast enough as Pierce was processing every word she said.
"Yes …" the now-alerted Pierce said encouraging her to continue
"Nothing, I want to say that he never changed since we were young" Ginny lied, but her eyes betrayed her as she couldn't sell a lie to a dunce, let alone a police detective and a shrewd like Pierce, but he didn't push her any longer and made a mental note to speak with her again, at dinner. He smiled at the last thought his trademark smile (Smiling by his right side of his mouth) before returning to the main topic.
"So" Pierce said "Can you help me keep my job, Dr. Weasley" he look straightly at her eyes causing her to feel avert her looks. She thought for a minute before speaking.
"Mr. McLaden"
"Please, just call me Pierce" He said smiling
"And you call me Ginny" She returned the smile; and he felt himself melting at her sweet smile, and her silky red lips even made it more wonderful.
"I have one solution for this; the problem is that the solution is a bit … Unofficial" She said mysteriously.
"I'll take anything" Pierce said hastily with a glint of hope in his eyes "I'm not a man who is give a damn about the rules" Smiling as he remembered his hacker days at college and after.
"Then give me a minute to bring the potion" Ginny said happily pacing toward the door that opened suddenly and an olive skinned starry eyes woman stepped in.
"Pierce" The woman exclaimed; and Ginny stepped back giving the woman some space to move in, who paced toward the bed and hugged Pierce tightly.
"Good morning Lydia" Pierce smiled with true happiness at the woman who was no other than his beloved wife.
"You fool" Lydia said sobbing "I knew one day you will be injured so badly; I don't want my daughter to be orphaned that fast"
Pierce returned the Hug with his free arm before speaking "Don't worry love. You know that I'm too stubborn to die that easily"
"I'll leave you two to yourselves" Ginny said softly before stepping out of the room.
"Who is she" Lydia asked her husband.
"She is my savior" Pierce said comically "And she coincidently appears to be my partner's sister"
"Hermione? I never knew she had a sister" Lydia cocked her eyebrows.
"No, not Hermione; our new partner Ronald Weasley. You have to meet him one day, he's a cool guy, and he's British" Pierce answered
"He is too! Looks like Britain will soon have no detectives" Lydia said jokily and Pierce laughed at her comment.
Lydia suddenly kissed her husband on the lips catching him off guard "What's the occasion?" Pierce asked
Lydia smiled an evil smile before answering "I knew you won't remember" she kissed him again "Happy anniversary"
"Ah, damn" Pierce clapped his forehead "Sorry love, I didn't buy you a gift yet, but as soon as these doctors release me I mmff …" he was muffled as she kissed him before he complete his sentence.
"I don't need any gifts" Lydia said slowly "You are the best gift I ever had"
Pierce felt his heart glow "I love you" he said before kissing her.
"Where is it? I know it's here" Ginny muttered while searching her locker
"Gotcha" Someone screamed from behind
"Eeeeep" Ginny screamed in ear piercing sound
"Awww, I think my eardrums have ruptured" Alicia said putting her hands on her ears.
"You deserve that" Ginny replied angrily "Don't you ever sneak up on me again; it is my specialty and I don't want any competition" She said the last words smiling.
"You are no fun" Alicia pouted before continuing "What are you looking for anyway?"
"My poti … err … Bottles; yes, I had a couple of bottles in my bag and now I can't seem to find them" Ginny said biting her tongue; this is the second time she was about to expose her true identity.
"You mean these?" Alicia said half-heartedly pulling her right hand from behind her back; Ginny snatched the bottle from her best friend's hand giving her a killing glare
"Alicia, how dare you snoop around other people properties?" Ginny shouted angrily.
"It was only a peak" Alicia said "And what are those by the way; they are not drinks or meds, they don't even have labels on them"
"Curiosity Killed the Cat" Ginny said annoyed and checking the bottles "And don't do that ever again"
"Boo-hoo, you are no fun" Alicia said pouting as Ginny was walking out of the room.
Alicia unintentionally disturbed her mood; she was feeling so happy and so full of affection. This strange man made her re-live her teenage years and disturbed her hormones so … unintentionally. She didn't feel like that since she met Harry, does that mean … No, it couldn't and it shouldn't; he is a married man and she does not want to hurt his wife.
Ginny reached Pierce room and was about to open the room, but her mind told her not to; she leaned by the door to listen. They were talking about their anniversary; this is another reason she didn't want to hurt them, they are a happy family, and she is just another unlucky lass.
She knocked the door politely before entering "I got the medication Mr. McLaden" She said his formal name while he looked quizzically "Keep in mind that it is 'Unofficial', so you have to stick to my directions"
"It is … Safe?" Lydia looked at the unrecognizable bottle in Ginny's hand.
"Very safe Mrs. McLaden" Ginny answered "But its unsafety can be triggered, as any other drug, by not following the instructions. First, you must take one tablespoonful every six hours for one day, and do not miss a single dose or the medication will not take its full effect. Secondly, you will feel certain side effects, like bone itching and restlessness; unfortunately these side effects are necessary as they indicate that the drug is taking effect, so bed resting is mandatory"
Lydia looked in victory at her husband "At last I can get you to rest, and it is now mandatory" Pierce groaned at her remark.
Ginny continued "Lastly, the remains of the bottle must be emptied in the sink and the bottle itself should be washed thoroughly before being disposed properly"
"Is that all … Ginny"
"Yes it is; your discharge papers will be finished in a few minutes; and I will visit first thing in the morning to check your progress personally"
"Thanks Ginny" Pierce smiled at her, and was surprised she didn't return his smile like before.
"No need to thank me, it is my job after all … Mr. McLaden" and she stepped out of the room.
"Isn't she nice, it's the first time I see a doctor that concerned about any patient" Lydia exclaimed happily.
"Yes she is" Pierce answered while pondering 'She want to play it the hard way, huh. Well, I'm not the man who back off from a challenge'
His thoughts where interrupted by her wife's calling "Shall we go dear?"
"No, absolutely not Ron" Harry said firmly "Why do I need to do that?"
"Because …" Ron said pressing on his words "We don't want any other 'unfortunate' accidents"
"But we would look so suspicious; a detective got transferred from England, that's you; and a private investigator, that is also British, investigating on the a case that by chance is the same case the police is investigating. Come on Ron, it cannot get any suspicious than that" Harry said sarcastically.
"And it is the only Plan we got, unless you have another one" Ron replied firmly.
Harry stared at Ron with silent and seemed to be processing the plan in his mind, and then after a minute he spoke "Okay, I will accept it for now, but if anything went wrong I'll quit it immediately"
"Just don't quit because someone patted your shoulder from behind" Ron said wryly.
"Ron … I'm warning you" Harry said pointing at Ron as blood rushed to his head.
"Okay, okay … Hothead" Ron muttered, and Harry pretended he hasn't heard the comment.
"When should I start then, genius?"
"Today"
"Today! But it is Sunday" Harry protested
"Come on Harry; did you think that only the aurors work on the weekends? And Pierce will be at hospital for at least ten days so you won't have any problem of being exposed quickly as he was the one who overlooked the duel" Ron said with fervor.
"He never took a detailed look at us, but that Granger girl saw at least a glimpse of my face in the ally, and she may recognize me"
"Don't worry mate, your Quidditch maneuvers plus the results of your unknown training caused her quite a shock yesterday. I doubt she will remember anything today because she has gone all hysterical yesterday" Ron answered howled with laughter, and Harry felt much remorse in his heart.
"I truly didn't want to hurt her" Harry said with sorrow.
"You didn't do anything mate, you just did what you had to do, even if it freaked her a little"
"A little! It freaked her a lot from my point of view"
"Anyway, let's be on our way; it is almost time, and don't forget your papers" Ron said looking at his watch, and they both stepped out of the HQ.
Hermione sat up from her bed gasping; she looked around trying to grasp her surroundings.
"What happened?" She said loudly before noticing she is at her flat.
'Last thing I remember is walking through the alley, then … Nothing' she looked worried 'I don't remember a thing, what happened between the time of the alley and now; al I can remember is … Nothing'. She glanced at the electronic calendar which was flashing 'Sunday'; 'At least I didn't miss a single day'.
Her chain of thoughts was interrupted by the ringing phone; she stood up and made her way to the kitchen counter where the phone was.
"Hello"
"Hermione dear" a woman voice came out of the speaker.
"Mom, why are you calling that early?" Hermione said in mixture of surprise and annoyance as she picked the clock beside her bed
"Thank God you are all right, it was the only way I could catch you, haven't you listened to any voice message on your recorder?"
"Actually, no … I was busy in the last few days and I didn't have the time" Hermione answered while turning on the screen of her voice message recorder, it was choking with messages.
"Please Hermione; give yourself a break, your father and I are very concerned about you, and your aunt made us feel no better"
"Aunt Janis! What has she said to you" Hermione asked with the more annoyance, her aunt was living in Los Angeles and was acting like a spy for her parents, she gave her parents the media's opinion on the police activities, which was no more correct than the tabloids, and the encounter last night will be on today's newspapers … Hermione groaned soundly.
"Something wrong dear?" Her mother sound came concerned from the speaker.
"Nothing you will not know today" Hermione said indifferently.
"We prefer to learn it from you young woman" Her father stern voice came from the speaker.
"MOM, are you on the speaker again" Hermione disgruntled.
"You know your father dear; he insisted to join the conversation" Her mother said while giggling at her bitterness.
"Well, shall you tell us what the bloody is happening down there?" Her father asked with the same stern tone, and she knew better than to clash heads with her father.
"Okay, okay … there is some commotion down here, but not to worry, we will control it in no time" Hermione said dismissively.
"Really! Do you consider a runaway Drug Lord 'some commotion'?" Her father said in a firm tone that barely covered a sarcastic one underneath.
"DAD! Don't make a fuss about it; you know I can handle this situation myself" Hermione almost yelled at her father.
"She is right Dan, maybe you need to relax a bit" Her mother said to her husband Dan Granger.
Hermione heard her father exhale loudly via the phone "You are right Emma; I'll get something to drink and you deal with your bloody daughter" Hermione heard her father's stinging words and couldn't help but to feel the stinging reaching her heart.
"Mom, what is wrong with dad? Has he returned to drinking again?"
She heard her mother sigh before answering "You have to understand your father dear, ever since you joined Scotland Yard he felt so uncomfortable seeing his daughter chasing criminal gits across the streets; and when you came with the transfer order to America, well … That was the last straw for him, he drowned his fear and sorrow in the bottle wanting to forget the fact that his daughter, his only and beloved daughter, has gone away from him, and now she is being chased down by a mad Drug Lord who wants her head …"
Hermione didn't comment, and an utter silence encased the conversation before her mother break the shell "So, I've called to give my condolences to you for the loss of your boyfriend"
"Thanks mom, I'm so sad too; we haven't even known each other for more that a month; and he is dead" Hermione sad as the sadness overcame her tone "Do you believe that we even didn't kiss?"
"Really! Well don't worry, I hope you overcome his loss and look for another boyfriend that will compensate you thoroughly; your father and I can't wait to see our grandchildren" Emma said in overjoyed tone, and Hermione felt herself blush "MOM"
"What? You can't blame me for wishing you the best; at least you will be occupied with your children and leave the job"
"I will never leave my job mom" Hermione said fiercely.
"I know, your rebellious nature wouldn't allow this for the time being, but you will let go of it eventually, as your father left his old rebellious ways the moment you were born"
"Really! My father WAS a rebel? I can't imagine that" Hermione said in surprise.
"You don't know half of it; he was the number one rebel of the college, and somewhat hippie too" Emma was enjoying the memories she pass on her daughter who was in a fit of laughter as she can hear through the phone.
"Mom; a rebel I can accept, but a HIPPIE" Hermione commented as she entered another fit of laughter.
"And a sour loser too; he once accepted a drinking match from one of the students there and took a beating, and got depressed for over a week; I have to remember showing you the college album next time we meet" Emma said in a meaningful tone.
"It may be a long time before we see each other mom" Hermione answered hesitantly, and then she heard a noise from her mother's side and she recognized her father's voice.
"Emma dear, you are right; I need to relax a bit" Dan said and Hermione felt uneasiness because she can hear a hint of victorious tone in her father's voice.
"Dad, what are you up to" Hermione said with a hint of fear.
"Your mother said I need to relax a bit; so I'm going to take her advice and take a vacation, I'll call work and inform my assistant to take the mater in her hands for the next couple of months; you and I are going on a vacation dear"
"Where to?" Hermione asked with caution.
"America of course" the victorious tone was now obvious in his voice, and she groaned loudly as she heard her mother chuckle.
"Please dad" Hermione said but she couldn't complete the sentence as her father interrupted her "Shove it young woman; we need a vacation and we need to see our daughter; so beat it" and the last thing she heard is her mother laughing loudly.
Hermione dragged herself to her bedroom and threw herself on her bed. "Unbelievable" She said loudly; she remained lying down for a minute before standing up and getting ready for another day at work.
----------------------------------
Ron pushed the doors of the precinct open while urging Harry to hurry up.
"Oi Harry, let's move along. Shall we?" Ron looked back and yelled at Harry who lagged behind staring at the lobby.
"Harry, what's wrong?" Ron asked before hearing a commotion turning toward the lobby. The lobby was buzzing and some police officers are running back and forth between a couple of covered bodies. And captain Maronski was arguing with another officer.
"Captain Maronski, good morning sir" Ron greeted his boss half-heartedly.
"Do not SIR me young man; I'm not in the mood" Maronski rumbled
"What happened sir?" Ron asked nervously.
"Are you blind? Don't you see the bodies? Someone broke in the precinct and killed two officers"
"For what purpose?"
"God knows why; it is truly a scandal" Maronski replied breathing out loudly, then noticed Harry's presence and straightened his glasses before asking "And who might you be?"
"He is a private investigator sir" Ron answered hastily "He said he has vital information about the murders"
"Humph, so what if he has; the feds are taking over the case" Maronski said in the same angry manner and pointed at formally dressed men.
"WHAT?" Ron exclaimed "I can't believe it?"
"Believe it … Detective Weasley I presume" A stone-faced man advanced toward our heroes.
"Yes, and who might you be?" Ron asked bitterly
"Special agent Johnson, FBI; we are taking over the case as you people seem to be … Incompetent" Johnson said with a hint of sneer in his voice.
"INCOMPETENT? Who is the incompetent you git …" Ron said and was about to throw himself on the FBI agent, but Harry pulled him back
"Don't Ron, he is not worth it" Harry said calmly.
Johnson didn't flinch, and kept his stone face while saying "Give me a reason to snatch your badge" then he stared down at Harry before asking "Are you a detective too?"
"A private detective" Harry stared directly at the agent's eyes.
Agent Johnson twisted his face in disapproval "We do not allow PIs to meddle with our cases"
Before Harry was able to say anything, Ron blurted "Maybe you, but he is a vital witness for us"
Harry felt annoyed at Ron's statement and looked back to Johnson, who scowled at what he heard "Then he will answer to us FBI"
"Sorry, not today" Harry said indifferently and pushed Ron toward the lift.
"Thanks Ron, thanks a lot" Harry said with a hint of anger "Now I have to deal with that idiot"
Ron lowered his head in remorse "I'm sorry Harry, I was angry"
"Well, there was no need for you to throw me in the middle of your turmoil"
They reached the third floor and made their way toward the team office. Ron unlocked the door and ushered Harry to enter.
"Weird" Ron said "It is always Hermione who unlocks the office first"
Harry, who has cooled down, looked in amusement "Really! With all this work dedication I suspect id she ever has a life"
"Like you have one yourself" Ron replied sarcastically and Harry didn't comment.
"I forgot to inform you Ron; McGonagall flooed me, there is an Order meeting next month, the day is still not specified"
"Really! I can't remember when the last order meeting took place" Ron said in surprise.
"Apparently … Before Dumbledore's murder"
"Blimey, that far?"
"This is because the Order members took quite a hit emotionally and physically. You know the emotional part is Dumbledore's death, but the physical part is from the Giants attack on Hogwarts which was defended by the Order members during the final battle; many of them were injured but no one killed, thank God for that, then the Centaurs came to their aid; since then the Order has been lying low. I also need to tend to some matters in Gringotts before the meeting. So be prepared to leave a day before the meeting"
"All right Harry, I mean Mr. Gringotts owner" Ron said sarcastically.
Harry shrugged is shoulders before replying "I'm just a major co-owner along with Malfoy"
Ron's eyes widened "That wanker is a major co-owner, I can't believe it"
Their conversation came to an end when the door was opened and seemingly annoyed Hermione entered, she came to a halt when she saw Harry and looked skeptically.
"Morning Hermione" Ron said cheerfully
"Morning Ron, can you introduce your guest?" Hermione looked at Harry curiously.
"He is a friend of mine from England" Ron said nervously thinking 'I hope it works'.
"Harry Potter" Harry said taking the cue from Ron and extending his hand "Pleasure to meet you"
"The pleasure is mine" Hermione said "And what kind of profession are you in Mister Potter?"
"I am a private investigator; I used to work in England and was following a complicated case which led me here in Los Angeles"
"May I ask what kind of case it is?" Hermione said in manner of statement more than a question.
"Actually, I cannot violate the rights of my clients by revealing the information, but I can see that our paths has met; so I can expose some of the information, since we will work with each other and all" Harry said calmly
"I think both of you noticed that the FBI blokes are taking over, and why do you want for us to work together?" Hermione replied.
Harry looked straight into her eyes before answering "Because I want to piss of that dunce of an agent who is named Johnson"
Hermione chuckled at his statement "The desire is mutual, I think"
Harry, because he read her profile, knew that this is a possible reaction, and know she will accept; he replied with a smile "I'll take that as a 'yes' detective; and rest assured, I will not give that fool any vital information, in fact I won't give him anything at all"
"I know that bloke from before; he will enjoy pestering you for the information you have; he might even go far and order your arrest"
"I would love to see him try" Harry replied with a gleam in his eyes.
Hermione caught the gleam in his eyes, and for the first time since the beginning of their conversation she noticed his emerald-green eyes; she never saw such green eyes before, yet she feels that she saw knew them; she took her time thinking while admiring his eyes; she can see his strong will, his gentleness, and, to her surprise, sorrow and pain; 'this chap has faced death, I shouldn't be surprised as he works as an investigator, but why the sorrow?', she took a deep breath before making up her mind "Well then, I think we will work together after all, Mister Potter" and she smiled at him.
"It's Harry, please" Harry said politely.
"And it's Hermione for you too, Harry" She said with the same smile.
It was Harry's turn to admire her 'Bloody hell, she is beautiful, even when she was looking annoyed she was still beautiful' he gave himself a mental slap 'What are you thinking Harry? She is a muggle and you are a wizard, this is a horrible mix'
'Since when you despise muggles'
'I don't despise her, but I think it is hard for her to accept magic, she is a scientific as her profile says'
'Profiles can be wrong, but her body is not wrong'
'Yes … HEY WAIT; that is low; how can you think like that'
Harry was fighting with his daemons when he heard Hermione calling "Are you alright Harry?"
Harry snapped out of his thoughts "No … I MEAN YES … sorry, yes I'm alright; err… thank you" he replied with discomfort, and Hermione smiled again making him more uncomfortable.
"You look cute when you stutter" she gave herself a mental kick 'That was a bad choice of word Hermione'
'But it is the truth; he is cute … and handsome'
'Stop right there, did you say handsome; are you hitting on him?'
'I am, mentally at least; and he got beautiful green eyes too, although I feel like I saw them before'
'Girl … BEHAVE, and remember that he is a PI, means a temporary ally'
'Too bad'
She heard Ron clearing his throat before speaking "what should we do now after all that mess?"
"Heading to the morgue of course" she replied
"But the FBI took control of every aspect of the case" Ron stated
"They are still at the lobby, and I like to piss Johnson by checking the victim's body before him"
"This is more my style, I think I'm beginning to like you" Harry said and noticed the hint of blush on her face 'Have I said anything wrong' he thought to himself.
"Like her or LOOOVE her" Ron said airily grinning, and then roared with laughter as Harry and Hermione blushed simultaneously.
"Double blush, what a prank score" and all of them made their way toward the elevator not noticing a pair of eyes that was following them.
"It is complicated now" The owner of the eyes said.
-------------------------------
Pierce felt the sunlight searing his eyelids and groaned loudly. He felt the bed sheets pulled away.
"Wakey wakey, sleepy lazy" his wife whispered in his ears.
"Another ten minutes honey" he said and shifted right.
"Humph, you are either a work freak or a sleepy lazy; you have to balance your life dear, look who came for help" Pierce felt a small weight on his shoulders; when he looked up, he saw a pretty innocent gray eyes looking at him.
"Hey there sugar" He said holding his daughter Sherry up.
"This was the only way I could wake you up" Lydia said hugging him lovingly.
"You know I can't resist my sweat angel" Pierce said and tickled his daughter who giggled loudly.
"How's your arm" Lydia asked with worriedly.
"Well, it's good, and I'm surprised; it feels a bit itchy, but I shouldn't be able to move it until the next week"
"I think it is the effect of that doctor's recipe" Lydia said
"Yeah, I shouldn't be complaining" Pierce hugged his wife "And I love you"
"What was that about" Lydia said smiling.
"Nothing, will you sue me because I said I love my wife?"
"No, but it has been a while since I heard you saying that"
"Well, get used to it; because I will not stop it"
"Dada" their daughter said; and caused them to turn their heads in a shock.
"Did she … she …" Pierce stuttered.
"Yes" Lydia hugged him with glistening teary eyes.
"Dada" Sherry said again with an innocent smile.
"She's just spoken" Pierce exclaimed hugging both his wife and daughter 'Life can't get any better' he thought to himself.
-------------------------
During this time, a suspicious phone call was taking place
"Hola"
"It's me"
The man on the other side of the phone didn't speak; he heard rustling before someone pick up the phone again.
"Speak" a deep voice came out of the speaker
"Who the hell are you? You are not him" the called asked with discomfort.
"Let's say I'm an … associate of him" the deep voice
"To hell with you, I will only speak with him"
"If you want to keep your job, then you will answer to me now"
The caller swallowed the lump that formed in his throat before answering "OK, now can I ask who you are?"
"Tsk-tsk … Are you really that thick; what if the line was bugged and somebody was eavesdropping; you will be in an unpleasant situation, and I will be long gone. Now, tell me what's bothering you"
"That British detective, Hermione Granger is the name; she is too nosy and too stubborn, she might go deep; and you will be in trouble"
"Don't worry, she will not see the unseen, nor will she feel the unfelt"
"What the hell does that mean?" the caller demanded.
"Don't bother yourself with that, you will not understand. Now, for the time being let her do her chores; she will tire herself with no benefit gained"
"You will not be that confidant when I tell you that; HE is here, and they seem to work together now"
"HE … You mean the one we gave you his picture" The deep voice said with a hint of discomfort.
"Yes" the caller said in indifference.
"That is not good for us" the deep voice was not in clear discomfort.
"I still don't see how a single man, especially a young one who seem to be green would cause you to be that concerned"
The deep voice chuckled before answering "Believe me when I say, he is far more experienced than you are; and if you were in to witness what experience he has encountered you would have pissed in your knickers"
The caller grumbled but never commented, and the deep voice continued "Nevertheless, he still our enemy, a formidable enemy, but still an enemy and a nuisance; and must be dealt with cunningly and swiftly"
"And may I ask how are you gonna do it?" the caller asked with impatience.
"You'll see; I assure you that he will be in a sticky position" and the deep voice chuckled then hung up.
-------------------------------
The elevator door opened slowly, and the trio made their way toward the morgue, Hermione opened the door and called "Hello, anybody here"
"Yes; welcome to the morgue, detective Granger" a middle-aged woman came out of a distant annexed office.
"Helen! I thought you were on vacation" Hermione exclaimed at the woman, who smiled at her before answering "I returned early"
Hermione introduced Harry and Ron to the Pathologist and vice versa "This is Ronald Weasley the new detective, and this is Harry Potter a private investigator working on the same case. Harry, Ron; this is Dr. Helen Grant, our most precious and trusted pathologist"
Helen looked straight at Harry, who did the same; then she broke a smile and spoke "Pleasure to meat you"
"The pleasure is mine" Harry replied with a similar smile.
"Aren't PIs not allowed to interfere with the police cases?" Helen asked Hermione who shrugged before grinning mischievously "This is FBI case now, Johnson's to be precise; and I'm more that willing to interfere with any case that jerk is on"
"I see; and since I didn't receive any notice regarding that I am still at your service"
"Now, after the introduction and the warm greetings; can we start with our business Helen? We want to check the body of the last victim"
"Ahh, you see Hermione; there is a problem" Helen said pointing at the dissection table "The body is no longer here"
"WHAT? What happened? Who took it?" Hermione yelled and Harry paced toward the table.
"No body" Harry said moving his hand over the table "It is still here but it has been burned to crisp"
"That's right" Helen replied "After I heard the commotion upstairs I came down and checked up everything; I found the body of the last vic in this state; only this body was incinerated, the other victims are still in their former state"
"That's bad" Hermione said, and Harry thought 'Truly, it is bad; the incindio spell covered any trace of the original spell that killed the victim'
"But don't worry, I was here yesterday and examined the body thoroughly before this 'unfortunate accident' has occurred" Helen said gaining the attention of the trio.
"Really! Helen, you are my hero; I owe you one, please gimme the report; gimme gimme gimme" Hermione said while bouncing up and down.
"Whoa Hermione; calm down, the report will not fly away" Ron said holding Hermione shoulders.
"Yes, but Johnson can fly in any minute"
"Someone called my name?" The door opened and Johnson stepped in "My my, if it isn't my favorite detective; how are you doing Granger?"
"Faring well, Johnson" Hermione said in spitting manor.
"Tampering with the evidence, are we?" Johnson sneered.
"Well, can't hide that from an expert meddler like you" Hermione said slyly causing Johnson to grimace.
"Enough games, woman. I demand your leave immediately" the agent snapped.
"I still want to check the remains" Hermione insisted.
"Haven't you heard me you wench; this is an FBI case now, this is not a case for a chick like you; and who is playing with the air condition?" Johnson finished his sentence with a shiver as the temperature dropped sharply, if Johnson turned his head toward Harry, he would faint from the murderous glares Harry's eyes were shooting, and the hint of aura that engulfed his body. Luckily, only Ron witnessed that and whispered "Harry, not here; control your temper"
Harry took a deep breath and calmed; the aura around him disappeared, and the temperature returned to normal.
"That's better; now for the last time woman, leave with your so-called partner and that playboy PI" Johnson said pointing at the door. Hermione and Ron took off; but Harry stood his ground. And waited for Hermione to be far enough so she can't witness what he will do.
"Haven't you heard me asshole?"
"Of course I heard you, and I have one word for you" Harry said coldly.
"And what is it?"
"Stupefy" Harry said with his wand at hand, and Johnson fell unconscious.
"Stupid jerk" Harry said in spitting manner "Now Sofia, hand me the reports" Harry extended his hand to the pathologist who was no other than the metamorphagus auror.
"Certainly sir" the pathologist replied and handed the reports to Harry "This is for you and this is for detective Granger; make sure you don't mix them, as yours contain details about the spell used on the victim; I couldn't identify it though" Harry nodded to her stepping over Johnson's body and said before exiting "Revive him then give him a fresh memory about this incident"
Harry paced toward the elevator, where he found Hermione and Ron waiting for his.
"What happened?" Hermione asked quickly, and then gleamed when Harry handed her the report before answering "Nothing; I just had a word with Johnson and convinced him to see the things from our point of view"
Hermione grinned widely and said "I never thought that someone would influence that brat Johnson to do such a thing"
Harry shrugged and replied "There is always a first time" he didn't notice Hermione's gaze upon him; she held her look for a minute thinking 'Who are you really, Harry Potter'
---------------------------
"Disgusting …" Pierce spat a coughed after he gulped the second dose of the potion.
"It should be dear, it is a medicine" Lydia said casually.
"Why don't you try some love; it would be nice to have a second opinion" Pierce said slyly between his coughs.
"No thanks, I believe you completely" she said hurriedly, and the doorbell rang; Lydia stood up and walked toward the entrance while Pierce lied on the bed and play with his daughter; he recently knew that she was ticklish and her neck was her weakspot; he began his attack and Sherry was in a fit of laughter.
"Pierce; stop it or she will suffocate" Lydia was standing at the door frowning with Ginny beside her holding her bag.
"Good morning Mr. McLaden; I see that your condition has improved" Ginny greeted while beaming, and Pierce couldn't help but to feel uncomfortable at the formal address.
"Good morning to you my savior; I owe all this to you and your magical potion; it's amazing" Pierce replied the greetings and noticed Ginny's slight flinch "Are you alright yourself"
"Yes, thank you" Ginny answered hastily, and then tried to revert to the main subject "Do you feel any pain when you move your arms and legs?"
"No, they are just a bit itchy like you said to me yesterday" Pierce answered physically by moving his pro-injured arm. Ginny took the stethoscope out of her bag and began her examination, Pierce handed sherry to his wife and straightened himself.
"Please take off your shirt" Ginny asked calmly while examining his arm.
"Can you withstand my animal magnetism while I'm half-naked?" Pierce asked mischievously; Lydia glared at her husband and Ginny couldn't help but chuckle.
"Don't worry; I see dozens of you daily" Ginny replied causing Pierce to pout "Hey, that's a low blow"
"You deserve it dear" Lydia said grinning wickedly "At last someone is bold enough to bring you down"
Ginny smiled but didn't comment; she completed her examination and then stood up "That's all; your arm is nearly healed up and your rest limbs are following. Have you followed my instructions correctly?"
"Yes, and I still don't believe that I was injured badly only yesterday"
Ginny smiled before answering "The miracle of Natural treatment; just complete the dose regimen and your wounds will be healed completely, see you later"
"Dr. Weasley, please; why don't you stay for breakfast" That was from Lydia while cuddling Sherry who was in a laughing fit.
"I would love to, but I have to rest for some time before my shift starts; just make sure Mr. McLaden completes the regimen and rest for at least three days before returning to work"
"I will, thank you doctor; and we're sorry for troubling you"
"Don't be, it is my duty to look after the patients" Ginny answered, then the two women shook hands and Ginny left the house.
----------------------------
"Nothing new in the report; not a bloody thing" Hermione exclaimed in frustration throwing her report on her desk.
"Hermione relax; we were expecting this, didn't we?" Ron said trying to calm his partner.
"I know, but I was hoping to find something, a single detail that can bring me some comfort; I'm going to be mental" Hermione said the last words while holding her head between her hands.
"Actually, I thing I have a theory" Hermione's jumped on her feet and looked at Harry who said these words, causing Harry to flinch at her reaction.
"You really are mental" That was from Ron who was rewarded by an evil glare, Hermione then walked to Harry and spoke "Do you really understand anything in this mad case? Which reminds me, you didn't share your previous knowledge about the case; care to do this now?"
"It is unwise speak of vital information in here, with Johnson and his blokes all over the please" Harry said calmed in an almost whisper voice.
"Oh, I forgot about that dimwit; how about the café across the precinct, they are serving excellent English tea there" Hermione said in eagerness
"Only if it was my treat" Harry said with a smile, and stood up showing his approval.
"Okay, let's go" Hermione said with enthusiasm. Ron, on the other hand, stood up and took Harry's morgue report "I will stay here in case anything comes up, and I will check the report again for any detail; you go on with your date lovebirds"
Harry sniggered while Hermione flushed deeply and yelled "RON; this is a professional meeting, not a date" and she stormed out of the office.
Harry turned to Ron smiling and said "You really can't restrain your cheek"
Ron shrugged before answering "No; Now go on with your meeting, I will send the report to Dick so he can send it to Malfoy; just be cautious, the streets are not safe these days with both Flint and Muerte gaining the courage to attack anytime"
Harry shrugged and replied "You know me; I don't look for trouble but trouble finds me" and then he stepped out of the office
"Honestly, can't he see the embarrassment he causes to the people by his irritating remarks?" Hermione said in annoyance.
"That's Ron, a Weasley through and through; if you want to be embarrassed even more you have to meet his brothers Fred and George, they are a twin and can cause a double trouble, they were the most famous prank pullers in school days"
Hermione laughed at the remark until they reached the elevator; she pushed the down button, and then she looked at Harry with questioning eyes "I see that you speak of Ron as more than an acquaintance; how come you know him that good; and how come you joined him here in Los Angeles and now both of you are working 'co-incidentally' on the same case?"
Harry took a deep breath, and then entered the now-open elevator while reviewing his already-made answer before speaking "Ron and I know each other from school days; we attended the same school, graduated together, and both have chosen the career of law enforcement. He has chosen to work in the police forces, but I preferred to be free, I chose to be a private detective"
"Interesting story, and what college have you attended?"
"Liverpool University College of Law" Harry said the first thing came to his mind.
"Really!" Hermione exclaimed "I attended this very college, but how come we never met; it was a small college after all"
"Maybe we weren't in the same year" Harry tried to correct his mistake.
"Maybe …" Hermione said and made a mental note to check up Liverpool University alumni "Anyway, let us be on our way"
They reached the café which was not crowded; they easily found a table outside the café. The waiter came to them and handed a menu each, then went to check another customer.
"So" Hermione looked at him expectantly.
"Okay, where should I begin?" he looked left and right to ensure safety, and wished he could cast the silencing spell "Me and Ron had a mutual case when we were in England, there was a group of cult fanatics called themselves the 'Death Eaters', they were a group of people who share a vision of blood purity and a goal of eradicating the world of the other races, their former leader has be eliminated, but the group itself was not weakened as a new leader has been picked, or should I say emerged, this new leader goes by the name of Marcus Flint, he is a dangerous foe, and highly intelligible; he pulled the death eaters into hiding for a year before emerging again and killing a fellow death eater who was captured during the former Dark Lord elimination"
Harry didn't notice that he said 'Dark Lord', but Hermione noticed it and remembered what Ron has said to her yesterday.
FLASHBACK
"You are not alone; and you remind me of a friend, who also was a target since he was one year old, his parents died by the hands of the Dark Lord himself in an attempt to save him, he then ……"
END FLASHBACK
'This is not a co-incidence' she said to herself 'but then again, maybe that fanatic leader called himself a Dark Lord, I have to check up with the blokes in Scotland Yard, maybe they have something to share about this case'
"Hermione, are you okay" she looked at the concerned Harry who stopped speaking
"Yes, thank you for your concern"
"If you want me to stop …"
"No please … Continue"
"Okay, as I said, they killed their fellow death eater to prevent us from interrogate him thoroughly; after that we followed the tracks of the murderer which led us here in Los Angeles"
"Your orders' sir" the waiter asked Harry politely, who looked at Hermione "What do you want Hermione"
"Earl Gray tea, please" she answered.
"Make them two, please" Harry told the waiter, who write it down and went inside.
Harry cleared his throat before continuing "When I came here, I searched for any information about the death eaters and any related unusual incidents; and I found some troubling information. It seems that the death eaters have allied themselves with the Columbian cartel; they also were the ones responsible for the prison break"
"How could you find this valuable information while the whole LAPD is striving to get a bit of logic in this case? You are not a normal PI Harry" Hermione said in awe and curiosity, the waiter brought the tea for them.
"You can say that I look in the right places; I also have a bit of information about the weapon used in murder. The death eaters have stolen a secret weapon from the MI-5 labs, it is a beam weapon that can cut, destroy, move, or manipulate matter into what the caster want; this beam weapon is as small as a wooden stick and look like on too, it does not leave any mark on the victim's body or the surrounding area"
Hermione was dumbfounded by what she heard; she stirred her tea for a minute before speaking "Unbelievable, who would think of creating such terrible weapon?"
"The weapon is only an instrument used by the person. It is the person's will that can turn this weapon into good or evil" Harry answered calmly.
"If this weapon was developed by the MI-5, how come you know about it?"
"The news of robbery spread among the police force quickly, especially when the weapon is used constantly, and I had some 'contacts' between them who informed me of the whole story" Harry answered then looked at Hermione "Any questions?"
"Many, actually" Hermione said "I witnessed a fight between your 'Death eaters' and anther group; who was they, I don't know, But I can clearly say that they were no death eaters. What I wanted to say that they were very, very fast; in fact, I think I almost swear that they teleport from place to another. But what I clearly remember is the bloke from the opposing group; he was by no means the fastest human I ever saw"
Harry at that point was nervous, but he kept his cool when spoke "The other group I don't know anything about it; but I can say that enemy of my enemy is my friend"
"I hope you are right" Hermione ensued and by the time she drank the last of her tea he waiter brought the check; she was about to left it up but Harry snatched it swiftly from between her fingers "I told you it is my treat"
Hermione was aback by Harry's speed when he snatched the check "You really are swift" she smiled at him 'Too swift for a human being' she thought to herself.
Harry pulled a 20 dollar banknote out of his wallet, put on the table, then stood up not waiting for the change. Hermione intrigued by his doings "So, PIs earnings are well after all?"
"I have some minor business activities her and there …" Harry shrugged.
"I'm really intrigued by your carefree way Mr. Potter" Hermione stated with a smile, Harry smiled in modesty and unconsciously rubbed his scar as he does whenever someone praised him; which caused her to notice the bolt-shaped scar.
"Harry, what's with the scar?"
Harry noticed that he revealed his scar with rubbing it "Nothing, just an old wound"
She looked thoroughly at his scar for a second before replying "It is too well formed to be an old wound"
"let's say that I once met a lunatic murderer who likes to draw shaped wounds on his victims"
Hermione sensed his discomfort with the subject, so she didn't push further into it; and even attempted to change the course of the conversation.
"So, you say you were a renowned investigator back in England; how come I never heard of you?"
"I never said I'm renowned" Harry said in defense "I only said that I have some connections in Scotland Yard, you twisted my words"
"Hey, I never twisted any words; only renowned investigators have connections in the yard"
Harry leaned forward and smiled "Maybe I cover my tracks very well", and Hermione felt her heart pounding and her breathing stop, she felt herself melting by his smile.
"Cute smile" she said without thinking, and both of them blushed at her remark with herself turning beet red. Harry only blushed a little but never said anything. They walked along the pavement without a word spoken, and Harry was the first to break the silence.
"What is your theory about the case at hand?" he asked Hermione, who nibbled with her lips like she always do when thinking hardly.
"I really don't know, for now there is only murder, nothing else"
"I know, it is really weird; but knowing Flint and his death eater fellows this is what pleasures them most. But what interests me is his alliance with the cartel leader; I never thought that the death eaters would ally themselves with mugg … mugs" Harry averted the mistake in the last second.
"I don't know about those cults; I even haven't heard of them when I was at the Yard; but you seem so keen in knowing their moves and ways, how come?"
"They are the first and only case I've been following since I became an investigator"
"Are they really that troubling?" Hermione asked with interest.
"They are just too organized to be destroyed easily" Harry answered, but then he stopped at the newspaper booth because an interesting title drew his attention.
He turned to Hermione and said "Hermione, would you mind get ahead of me to the police station; I think I'm going to check the newspapers for some time"
"No problem, just remember to call me or Ron from the lobby so we can get you through the lift to the third floor; it is restricted to the detectives of robbery and homicide"
Harry nodded at her; and she turned toward the precinct. Harry watched walking gently along the pavement for a minute; he seemed to be mesmerized by her casual walk, and he doesn't know why. He shook his head then turned his attention to the newspaper at hand.
Los Angeles Times Mar, 15th 2005 Page One
THE PERFECT CRIME
The College of Science in LA University began their academic week by a terrible loss; the Electro-Magnetic Pulse Amplifier (Short-named EMPA) which was emplaced in the Lab of the Department of Physics; was found missing by the faculty members of the department. The EMPA owned by the aforementioned department is considered the most accomplished contraption of its kind as it has been stated by the Head of the department Prof. Trakovoski; we have obtained a decent interview with the professor as you can see below:
N.I. (News Interviewer): Good morning professor, what can you tell us about the incident?
Prof. T: This is not a good morning indeed; the most valuable device in the whole department has been stolen, not to mention the wasting of many incomplete research papers involving the use of it; many of the department researchers and post-graduate students depend on the EMPA in their research.
N.I.: Can you tell us more about the EMPA, professor?
Prof. T: Well … As the name suggests, it is an Electro-Magnetic Pulse Amplifier; it has the same concept of the EMP cannon owned by the Pentagon and can knock; but it is much more powerful with half the size. One of our brilliant and most talented past-students worked into developing the regular EMP device and came with the EMPA. The regular EMP can knock out any electric device within a certain radius but still cannot knock out the power of a huge city like LA, and can transmit audio and video much faster than the Radio and TV waves; our EMPA can do the same thing with more efficiency. It is truly a disaster that it has been stolen, and weird too; I cannot think of any benefit gained from it outside the lab.
N.I.: We are truly sorry for your loss professor.
Next we interviewed the chief of University Security Office Mr. Landon Parks. And he seemed to be furious with the whole affair:
N.I.: Mr. Parks, greetings; can I have a minute of your time?
L.P.: Sure; but please be quick, we have an investigation to run.
N.I.: Can you tell us about the security measures that have been applied in the EMPA lab during the night of the crime?
L.P.: We have been taken strict measures as we have been told about the value of the device. These measures include constant intermittent patrol, video surveillance, and magnetic card access.
N.I.: With all these measures, how come that someone had access to the lab without notice?
L.P.: I really don't know; we have reviewed the video tape, and we only saw a black hooded person before the whole scene is cut. It is an inside job indeed; someone has provided the culprit a magnetic card which allowed him to enter and screwed with the security cameras. I promise this insider will be captured and served what's right to him.
N.I.: We hope so too Mr. Parks.
As you've read above, the crime couldn't have been done single-handedly; but still the purpose of the robbery is unknown, and who is the black hooded person.
Harry folded the newspaper and grimaced "What are you plotting Flint?" he stood thinking for a second 'Why do you care about muggle machinery all of the sudden?' he paid for the paper and walked toward the precinct, he saw Hermione crossing the road thirty meters away. Suddenly his sixth sense shot up. Harry noticed a car coming from afar, he didn't know why but he felt bad about it; he always trusted his sense of danger, and this time is no different from the others.
As he hastened toward Hermione his feelings came true; the care sped up when Hermione was in the middle of the road. Harry increased his pace into running in hope of catching up with her before the unfortunate happen.
"HERMIONE WATCH OUT" Harry yelled in desperation as he tried to close up; Hermione looked at him in confusion and suddenly she heard the screech of tires behind her, she froze as she saw the approaching car. And the pedestrians screamed in horror.
Nobody knew what happened exactly, but for Harry everything seemed to be in slow-motion; there were only three meters separating him from the frozen Hermione, he made up his mind and jumped toward her diving through the air for the whole three meters. He grabbed Hermione and twisted his body so he would fell on his back and not hurting her. He glanced at the speeding car and saw it turn around and the thugs are preparing their weapons for a drive-by shooting, Harry wandlessly threw a shield around himself and Hermione as soon as the thugs fired their weapons and covered her with his body; the bullets stopped dead in the middle of the air; he was angry with the thugs as he saw innocent people get shot and wished he could threw a Reductor curse at the car; but luck was at his side as he saw one of the thugs leaning out of the window, so he 'accio-ed' him out of the car and pushed him hard on the pavement all wandlessly, wordlessly, and motionlessly thanks to his raw magic; the thug went unconscious immediately after the impact and a nearby cop ran to him and cuffed him.
Harry turned his attention to Hermione who was in a shock because of all what was happened just now.
"Hermione, are you okay" Harry asked worriedly as he saw her vacant expression "Hermione, stay with me"
"What have just happened?" Hermione asked with quivery voice.
"Those dimwits were about to murder you, but luckily they were so thick that they couldn't aim correctly"
"But I saw the bullets hit an invisible wall, it wasn't a matter of bad aim" Hermione said while trying to stand up.
"Maybe it was your guardian angel" the already-standing Harry said and offered his hand to Hermione graciously who took it thankfully. She then walked toward the heap of bullets where the shield was erected; she was amazed by the amount of lead that was on the ground.
"It is indeed not a matter of bad aim" she muttered to herself.
"Well, I can't tell you anything about it; but there is something I'm positively sure of" Harry said and Hermione looked at him in confusion. He pointed at the fallen victims behind his shoulder and said calmly "This is a crime scene now".
A/N: Well, that was the seventh chapter; I'm sorry I took that long, but I hope it's worth it. I've written the general plot of the next episodes (Part Two and Three mainly); but I WILL NOT write them unless I see enough reviews, good and bad, now I must go and take a nap before I start writing the next chapter.
Read &Review Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease.