One Shots pt 5

by phoenixgirl26

Another selection of one shots.

10. Chapter 10

The Good Fight:

After Harry Potter and Ginny Weasley snogged in the Gryffindor common room, Harry figured he needed to talk to her, in private. He took her hand and pulled her out of the common room and to the seventh floor.

Ginny grinned, she thought she was going to be able to snog Harry in private, without her brother causing trouble.

As soon as the door closed Harry let Ginny's hand go, 'Okay, if we're going to be more than friends than we need to talk.'

'Talk, Harry, we can talk later, let's snog.'

'No, we need to sort out some things first.'

Ginny huffed, 'Fine, what things?'

'Okay, first, I know that you want us to be together. You're brothers and Hermione have told me that. I think you're a great girl, funny and you're also not one to back down from a fight. I get that since you had to grow up with six older brothers. We get on well, I have no idea how we will go as a couple, but I'm willing. Before we can, we need to work on some things.'

'So, you like me.'

'Yeah, you're a great girl. But I can't just be with you or any girl when there are things that need doing.'

'You mean…you-know-who?'

'Yes, but if you're going to be my girlfriend you have to say the name. I won't have my girlfriend being scared of a made-up name. But it's more than just his name. We're heading into a war and I'm going to be a big part of it.'

'But Harry, that's what the order and aurors are for. You don't need to be involved.'

'I do and I'll explain soon. This is what I need. You have to make an unbreakable vow that I will write out for you, otherwise we wont be together.'

'No, that could kill me Harry.'

'It has to be that or we might as well forget having anything to do with each other. You don't have to give me the vow now, you can think about it. But we won't be together until you take the vow.'

Ginny couldn't believe what she was hearing. She knew Harry could be stubborn, so she knew if she didn't make this vow, she would never get Harry as her boyfriend. She finally had a chance of having Harry, but it comes with a big price.

'I need to think about it.'

'You should. So, you might as well head back to Gryffindor tower. I have some things to work on.'

'Can I have another kiss?'

'No, not without the vow,' Harry opened the door then stared at Ginny.

Ginny huffed but she left the room of requirement and headed back to Gryffindor tower. She had to speak to Hermione, without her brothers around.

Harry thought of what he needed, the room provided, like always. He made sure everything was ready for later then thought of a door to the Gryffindor bathrooms. He wanted to forget about the detention he had earlier so he decided a nice warm shower would help. As he was standing under the water, he went over what to put in the vow. He knew Ginny would eventually agree, so he had to have the wording perfect. What he didn't tell Ginny was the fact he planned to obliviate the fact she made a vow from her memory. He could not take the chance that the old man or the Weasley's would force him to release her from the vow. If he did that, she would be able to tell anyone what he planned to do or what he had already done. He would not risk his life or freedom to anyone. He didn't trust Dumbledore, or any of the teachers and he certainly didn't trust anyone at the ministry.

Ginny had finally got Hermione's attention, so they made their way up to the sixth year girls dorm. Lavender and Parvati were both down in the common room so it was empty.

'I didn't expect you to come back so soon,' Hermione said as she sat on her bed.

Ginny growled, 'I didn't even get another snog.'

'What happened?'

'it's strange. He said we had to work out some things first. Then he spoke about the war and how he will be involved. I tried to tell him to leave it to the order and aurors but he said he will be involved.'

Hermione sighed, 'He will be.'

'How?'

'I can't tell you Ginny. Professor Dumbledore made us promise to never tell anyone.'

Ginny knew there was no use trying to get this information out of Hermione when she had made a promise to Dumbledore.

'Fine, but I might end up Harry's girlfriend.'

'Might?' Hermione raised her eyebrows.

'Hermione, Harry said we can only be together if I make an unbreakable vow. I thought I could talk him around, but he's serious.'

Hermione sighed again, 'I know there are some very dangerous information that Harry knows that no one else can know. Even Ron and I don't know everything. I am surprised he would go as far as an unbreakable vow. Do you know what the wording is?'

'No, he wants me to think about it before I find out.'

'Ask him if you can read over the words first. It will help you make up your mind.'

'What if he refuses?'

'Then, sorry, I can't help. It's up to you. Just remember to read it through carefully before you agree to it. Even though I know Harry is going to be right in the middle of this war, I am surprised he wants to go as far as an unbreakable vow. Don't tell your brothers about this. They will instantly stop you then tell your parent's.'

'Already knew that Hermione,' Ginny sighed, 'So if I want to be with Harry, which I do, then I have to make the vow.'

'Think about it Ginny. Is having Harry as your boyfriend worth the risk of breaking the vow?'

'You know how long I've wanted to be with Harry. I can't give up now when he said we can be together. I just have to give the vow first.'

'It's your decision, but I still think you should take your time and consider everything it involves. I know you want to do it now, but please, take the time.'

'I'm willing to now, but okay, I'll take some time to think things through, that's all. I want to snog Harry, then eventually shag him.'

'Ginny,' Hermione squeaked.

Ginny giggled but she grinned, got up and left her friends dorm room. She headed for her dorm room to do a lot of thinking. She tried to come up with reasons not to take the vow. But all she could think about is Harry's lips and his naked body. She was fourteen, almost fifteen and been lusting after Harry for the last couple of years. She has her chance to get him right now, she just had to decide if the vow was worth it. She knew how many other girls liked Harry and some of them would take the vow if they had a chance to be with him. She was not going to give up on Harry.

'Yes, it's worth it if I finally get Harry.'

Ginny was ready then and there to take the vow, but she knew she would have to wait until tomorrow. Harry didn't come back to Gryffindor tower and Ron had told her he often snuck in late at night. If Harry said he was going to be involved in the war, Ginny figured he must be practicing spells in the room of requirement. She decided to just have a shower and go to bed early in the hope she could catch Harry in the morning.

When Ginny got up the following morning, she hurried to do what she needed then she practically ran all the way to the great hall. She sat opposite Harry, Hermione and Ron. She gave Harry a nod before dishing up her breakfast.

When they were ready to head to class, Harry waited until Hermione and Ron walked off then moved over to Ginny.

'Meet me at the room tonight at seven.'

'I'll be there.' Ginny kissed Harry on the lips before he could say anything then she practically skipped from the great hall.

Harry sighed. He did like Ginny, but if she wanted to be with him then she needed to understand what he was doing and what he planned to do.

That evening Harry was in the room again, working on his plans. Ever since they found the room, it never stopped surprising him. Neville had been the first to show Harry exactly what the room could do, more than just an open room they used for the DA.

Right at seven Ginny walked in and shut the door.

'Are you sure you want to do this?'

'Yes, I want us together Harry, I have for a while. If that means taking the vow then that's what I'll do.'

'Alright, it's written out, read it through before we do this.'

'Who is going to be our bonder?'

'I read through a lot of books on the vow. It says that the bonder must be magical. I even checked with dark arts books. It doesn't have to be a…human, it just needs to be a magical being. So I'm going to have Dobby be our bonder since he now belongs to me.'

'I knew the vow needed a bonder, but I didn't know it could be a house elf.'

'The house elf, if you use one, has to belong to one of the bonded for it to work.'

'Alright then,' Ginny saw the parchment sitting on the desk, so she picked it up and read it, 'So I can't communicate in any way to anyone about what you are doing or what you say about your secret plans.'

'Yes. The way I worded it doesn't stop you talking to Hermione or someone else about our time together, just not what I have to do to finish Voldemort. I will tell you once you've taken the vow.'

'Okay and after what you've been going through, I get why you're worried. So, the moment I take the vow, we're together?'

'Yes.'

'Do you want to be with me Harry?'

'Yes, as I said, you're a great girl, but you're also strong enough to protect yourself. I can't have some weak girl who can't take care of herself. I have enough to worry about. I also hate girls that cry, you don't cry, you get angry and that's going to be needed in the coming months.'

Harry and Ginny stood together, their hands gripping the wrist of the other. Dobby began the vow. By the time it was done, the golden rope that had wrapped around their hands and arms, disappeared. Ginny instantly kissed Harry, which he didn't mind, not now she took the vow. After a few minutes of snogging, they sat down ready for Harry to explain what he planned to do. Dobby had brought them some butterbeer and snacks.

Even though Ginny was shocked and wasn't sure how to handle the information Harry had laid on her, she knew she could not speak of anything. She also knew many would be shocked if they found out and she knew that there would be some people who would want Harry in Azkaban. She would not do that to him even if she wasn't sure about his plans. She decided it was still worth it, she had Harry. She also made another decision. She conjured a bed, then pulled Harry over to it. Harry was shocked this time, but when Ginny began to undress, he couldn't say no even if he wanted to. He was a normal hormonal teenage boy, of course he wouldn't say no to sex.

It was well after curfew when Harry and Ginny were about to head back to Gryffindor tower. Harry made sure Dobby distracted Ginny while he cast an obliviate on his girlfriend. He could not take the chance that someone could use legilimense on her and find out about his plans. He removed that information, along with the information on the vow and everything he told her about what he was planning to do. He them replaced that with just the information on how he had to be the one to finish Voldemort, but he also made sure the memory of them snogging and shagging went a little longer. He knew he could have just kept quiet about all his plans but he figured as long as he was protected, it couldn't hurt telling Ginny. He knew there was a chance they could end up staying together once the war with Voldemort was over, he felt right telling her. It also gave him someone to speak with about all this. But it was the look she had that told him she was unsure about what he planned to do, which told Harry there was a chance she could mentioned what he was planning. It was safer to remove the memory from her.

When they got back to the tower, everyone was already in bed. They had one more snog before they went up to their own dorm rooms.

Harry waited until one in the morning before he had Dobby sneak him into the girls dormitory. They appeared outside Hermione's dorm room. He put the cloak over himself then snuck into the room. It didn't take much at all to remove the memory of Ginny telling Hermione Harry had asked for the vow. He couldn't take the chance that if Ginny broke the vow and Hermione mentioned the vow, everyone would blame Harry. He needed to protect himself, even more now that the ministry and half the people in the magical world thought he was insane or after more attention. Once he was done with Hermione, including giving her another memory of her talking to Ginny about dating Harry and how Ginny wanted to have sex with Harry, he quietly left the room. He put the cloak over himself and the little elf, then Dobby popped him into Umbridge's private room. He used one of the wands he found in the room of requirement to kill the woman. Harry then found her stash of blood quills and made sure they were in a drawer, but a drawer that had been left unlocked and slightly open. He also found all the pieces of parchment that he and probably others had to write out with that quill. He wanted that woman's reputation ruined, even if she was dead. It would also help destroy Cornelius Fudge's name.

'It's going to be a long night my little mate, but it's best to do it now. Are you ready?'

'Yes…sir.'

'Then you know where to next.'

Harry never got to bed until five in the morning, but he had taken care of Umbridge, Dumbledore, Snape, Pettigrew, but made sure Pettigrew's body was found in Diagon alley with his dark mark showing. He also made sure that Pettigrew would leave a letter stating why he killed himself, his guilt over giving the secret to Voldemort about the Potters and setting Sirius up for murder. He was the reason his friends were dead and another in hiding, accused of crimes he didn't commit. Harry had placed him under the imperius curse so he would write the letter.

After Harry had killed the ones that needed to die, he used a spell he had found in the Black library. The spell would make sure the ones that died didn't return as a ghost. Harry was going to do everything he could to protect himself, but also make sure the kids in the castle were safe. He realised he would need to cast that on Ginny, in case she broke the vow. He couldn't have her return and tell everyone he was responsible for killing many people. He wasn't sure she would talk but he couldn't take the chance. He would do that the moment he returned to Gryffindor tower.

Harry took care of the elder Malfoy's, then Fudge and his personal auror guard who was his nephew. He removed Percy's memories, all of his memories. He returned to Hogwarts and killed every Slytherin that had the dark mark. He took care of them before he went to Ravenclaw tower. Dobby had found out which students were marked, apart from most of the older Slytherin's, there were only a few others. Two from Ravenclaw, so he killed them. He did the same with the one in Hufflepuff and the one in Gryffindor. All those students had their marks exposed. He once again used the spell to make sure they did not return as ghosts.

Dobby had been spying on those since he returned to Hogwarts. He found out what they had done to receive the dark mark and what they were willing to do. Harry knew no one else would stop them, he decided he would take care of them, for good. But he knew that Dumbledore would make sure those students didn't get in trouble and they would stay at Hogwarts, which meant the innocent kids would be in danger. That was the main reason for killing Dumbledore. He kept putting good and innocent people in danger while protecting the ones that would torture and murder. The students were always in danger and he didn't do anything to prevent it. Harry knew it was time for the old man to go onto his next great adventure.

The last to be taken care of was Voldemort and whichever death eater might be with him. There had been sixteen death eaters there at the house. Only two were awake, but luckily, they weren't together so Harry was able to deal with them easily without anyone seeing anything.

He ended up having to kill Voldemort's snake first so he could move around the house without the snake trying to kill him or Dobby. Harry had found a dagger in the room of requirement, he had taken into the chamber of secrets and pushed it into the venom sacks. After using the killing curse on Voldemort, he used the dagger. He didn't want to take the chance Voldemort could survive the killing curse like he, Harry had done.

Harry never thought he would kill anyone, but he learned unless he took care of the people who would try to kill him, he would be forever be looking over his shoulder.

The moment he returned to Gryffindor tower, Harry had Dobby take him into Ginny's dorm room. He was thankful that he didn't need to wait until the person died to cast the spell to stop them returning as a ghost if they died.

Harry slept until ten but Dobby had got him a pepper up potion from Snape's store cupboard the night before. He couldn't make anyone suspicious that he had been up all night. He would go to bed earlier that night. It's the main reason he picked Saturday night. For now, he just had to act like he always did, which was to spend time with Neville and Ginny. Dobby had given Harry other potions, ones that he might need. Blood replenishing potions, polyjuice potion, pain potions and even veritaserum. Harry hadn't used any and now he knew he probably wouldn't have to, but he had them, just in case.

Harry waited into the common room for Ginny and Neville. He kissed his girlfriend then the three of them headed down to the great hall ready for breakfast. The moment they got near the doors of the great hall, they saw a lot of aurors.

'What's going on?' Harry asked as he looked around but he noticed Ginny stared at him before she turned away.

'No idea, maybe you-know-who-tried to get into the castle.' Neville said.

'I hope not. I wonder if we can have breakfast.'

'Only way we will know is to walk towards the door. If they stop us, we'll know,' Neville said.

'Yeah, I suppose. Do you still want to go into the great hall Ginny?'

'Um, yes, I'm hungry.'

'Okay, let's go.'

The three friends walked towards the door. 'You need to be scanned before entering the great hall,' the auror said but he was staring at Harry, who just shrugged.

'Then go ahead, I have nothing to hide,' Harry stepped forward, his eyes on the auror and they were intense. The auror ended up having to look away which made Harry smirk. He stepped aside so Ginny and Neville could get scanned.

'I wonder why they are scanning everyone. I mean most don't believe he's back, so what is the reason?' Ginny asked as she dished up some breakfast.

'No idea. I'm sure the old man will explain later.'

'But your opinion mate. Do you think it had anything to do with…him?'

Harry had to act like he had no idea, 'I really don't know, but it must be dangerous or they wouldn't have so many aurors. I think he might have sent some death eaters to see just how difficult it could be to get in. He would need to get that information first. From everything we've heard, he was only afraid of the old man, well and me.'

'After what happened in the graveyard, he would have reason to believe he can't kill you,' Neville said.

'He's tried a few times now, I've been lucky. First year he tried four times, the troll, the broom, the forest and in that room under the castle. Second year, once, in the chamber. Fourth year was in the graveyard, so six times and that doesn't include when he gave me the scar.'

'So, he would believe he can't kill you.'

'Let's hope he does think that, Harry, it could keep you safe. But onto something else since we won't know what is going on until they make an announcement. Hermione, she's my best friend, yet you don't talk to her and we're together.' Ginny said.

'I won't stop you being her friend, I just won't be around when you want to spend time with her. I can't trust her and that caused me to lose any feeling I had for her. Right now, I don't think of her as a friend, she's just someone I know.'

'What if…say we get married and I want Hermione as my bridesmaid.'

'Then we won't get married,' Harry said then went back to eating.

Neville shook his head at Ginny to tell her to drop it. Harry had made up his mind, nothing will change it.

When Hermione and Ron sat near Ginny, Harry got up and moved to the other end of the table, making Hermione sigh, Ginny frowned and Ron just got angry before dishing up his breakfast. Ginny realised if she wanted to stay with Harry she would have to stay away from Hermione, but also her brother. She got up and moved down to sit beside Harry, then gave him a smile. Neville followed his two friends.

Ron ended up furious but so did Hermione. She realised because of following Dumbledore's orders, she not only lost Harry as a friend, but now Ginny since Ginny is dating Harry. Apart from Ron, Harry and Ginny had been her only friends. Even after all this time, Hermione and Ron still tried to get Harry to forgive them, he refused. They had begun to believe Harry would never forgive them for not writing to him over the holidays.

At the end of breakfast, it wasn't Professor Dumbledore or McGonagall who made the announcement, it was Madam Amelia Bones, the head of the department of magical law enforcement. First, she explained she was now acting minister, but being head of the DMLE, she activated the emergency powers. Which basically means she controlled everything. After that, she explained about the deaths of the headmaster, Professor Snape and Umbridge, but also about the students, all sixth and seventh year Slytherin's were dead and all had the dark mark, but four other fifth year Slytherin students who had the dark mark, were also dead. Students from other houses were found dead. Every student that died had the dark mark. That proved right then that Voldemort was back since he would have given the students the dark mark. They were too young last time.

Then came the biggest news and that again proved Voldemort was back. The aurors found him and found out he had been alive only hours before, but he was found dead along with all the death eaters as well. Harry got a lot of surprised looks. The students who believed Harry was lying when he said Voldemort was back, now realised Harry was actually telling the truth. They had listened to the lies of Fudge and they turned on the one person who had saved their world years before.

As Amelia Bones was talking, Harry noticed Ginny went from watching him to watching the woman and kept looking between her and him. He acted like he was listening to Madam Bones. Harry wasn't worried. He had removed the information from Ginny that he planned to take care of those people. Ginny would just know that he had plans, some involved things Dumbledore had told him, like the prophecy and how it was about him and Voldemort. But that's all Ginny knew. It could still make her suspicious but she would not be able to prove Harry was involved in anything.

As soon as Madam Bones finished turning, Ginny instantly turned to Harry, 'We need to talk,' Ginny said urgently.

'Mr Potter, I'm Madam Amelia Bones. We need to talk.'

Harry chuckled, 'Sorry Ma'am, but just as you were walking towards us, Ginny said we need to talk, then you said the exact same words. It must be a female thing.'

'It could be, but our conversation needs to be now and in private.'

'Sure, Gin, we'll talk later,' Harry gave her a small kiss before he followed the woman and two aurors out of the great hall. But almost everyone in the great hall was watching.

As Harry and Madam Bones went into the headmaster's office, Ginny had dragged Hermione to her dorm room.

'So, you see, I will need to officially question Mr Black before he can be cleared. As you are his godson, I believe you know where he is hiding.'

'I can't say where he is as it's under the fidelius charm but I do have a way to talk to him. Can I call my house elf?'

'Yes, you may.'

'Dobby,' Harry called then smiled as the elf appeared before him, holding his mirror, 'You always seem to know what I want Dobby. You're such a good mate.'

'Dobby tries to anticipate what the great Harry Potter wants.'

'Dobby, just Harry, remember.'

Dobby lowered his head but nodded, 'Dobby remember, just Harry.'

Harry laughed, 'You scamp, go, I'll call you later.'

'That is one strange elf,' Amelia said the moment Dobby left.

'He is unusual, which suits me,' Harry held up the mirror, 'My father and Sirius made these as students,' Harry stared into the mirror then tapped it with his wand, 'Sirius Black.'

'Hey pup, what's up?'

'A lot of good news, well, some of it's good news with some bad news thrown in. And guess what, I wasn't involved, for a change. It seems Remus won the bet.'

'He'll be pleased, he's with Tonks right now, I'll tell him when he turns up. So, explain what this news is.'

'If I may Mr Potter.'

'Who is that?'

'Um, it's okay Sirius, Madam Bones knows your innocent. She needs to speak with you.' Harry handed the mirror to the woman.

'Amy, it's about time you found the truth.'

'Do not call me Amy Sirius,' Amelia growled as Harry began chuckling.

'He calls me pup, he likes nicknames,' Harry shrugged.

Harry listened while Madam Bones told Sirius exactly what happened. Peter Pettigrew was found, dead but the dark mark exposed and a confession letter beside him. She also explained about the deaths of all the death eaters, Voldemort, marked students, Fudge, Snape, Umbridge and Dumbledore. But she mostly told him he was already free, but she needed to make it official. Tonks, who had come in with Remus while they were taking ended up showing her boss she was there and knew where Sirius Black had been hiding. She would escort Sirius to the ministry when Madam Bones was ready and she said she would take any disciplinary action Madam Bones saw fit to hand out. Just as the mirror was disconnected, an auror rushed into the room, glanced once at Harry then whispered to his boss.

'What?' Harry asked when Madam Bones and the auror looked at him.

'Your girlfriend, Miss Weasley, she collapsed. By the time Miss Granger got Madam Pomfrey, Miss Weasley had died.'

Harry acted like he was upset but also worried, 'Did she have the dark mark?' He whispered.

'No, so we have no idea why she died.'

'The poor Weasley's,' Harry said sadly, keeping up the act. But he knew she had broken her vow, she had tried to tell Hermione that Harry had been involved in some if not all the deaths. She might not have known for a fact that Harry planned to kill them, all she would remember is that Harry had plans and it was to do with dealing with the people who needed to be taken care of, permanently and Voldemort was one. Since he was dead, Ginny knew Harry was involved and tried to tell Hermione.

'Auror Hammer, escort Mr Potter back to Gryffindor tower. I will speak with Sirius and let him know what has happened.'

Harry nodded, he got up and walked out of the office with the young auror walking beside him.

'Do you think someone killed her because of me? I mean Voldy kept trying to kill me, Malfoy, Lucius Malfoy I mean, he tried as well. It's why I've been reluctant to get into a relationship. We only got together last night and now…' Harry never finished the sentence.

'It is a possibility Mr Potter, but we will not know for sure until we finish our investigation.'

'Yeah,' Harry sighed. 'Just before Madam Bones said she needed to talk to me, Ginny said we needed to talk and she sounded serious. I think it had to do with the reason she died.'

'We will find out Mr Potter. There is no use speculating.'

'Yeah, you're right.' He stayed quiet until they got to Gryffindor tower, then thanked the auror. He ignored everyone in the common room, especially Hermione, he just went straight up to his dorm room, sat on his bed, but closed the curtains. He placed some charms around his bed so no one could open them or hear anything he had to say. He could hear everything, but he didn't want anyone to hear him in case he called Dobby.

'I never wanted Ginny to die, I just wanted to protect myself,' Harry said sadly. He was sad, not just because Ginny died, but because of the Weasley's. He knew Ginny was going to tell Hermione and Hermione would instantly tell a teacher and Harry could have ended up kissed if they found proof that Harry had killed all those people. He didn't think people would care if he killed the death eaters who were with Voldemort, but they would care that he killed students along with Dumbledore and Fudge.

Harry didn't regret his decision to make Ginny take the vow. If she stayed quiet, they could have had a long life together. He was serious when he told her he didn't like crying girls, he needed a girl who could take care of herself and Ginny could. He really thought she might be the one he would eventually marry and have kids with. He liked her and knew the more time they spent together, love could come. Now she was gone just because she wanted to reveal his secrets, secrets that could have gotten him thrown in Azkaban, or kissed by a dementor.

No one saw Harry until late the next day. He walked into the great hall just as dinner began. He didn't sit where he normally sat, he sat right at the end of the table. He did eat, but not a lot. Harry knew people were watching, the teachers, some students and Hermione as well. He knew none of the Weasley's would be there, they would be home, ready to bury a member of their family. He still had to act the part, so even though he was upset that Ginny died, he made it look like he was really upset. He mainly pushed the food around his plate, only eating a small amount.

Harry decided he had eaten enough without eating too much. He did glance around. Some people looked sadly at him, some curious, but one girl seemed to be trying to figure him out. A Slytherin, one that wasn't a Voldemort follower, nor her family from what Dobby had found out. She seemed to be staring at him, he had no idea why. He knew she was called the ice queen, he just thought she was beautiful. Now was not the time, he just lost his girlfriend, but he was also happy that Voldemort and his death eaters were dead. He wasn't sure what emotion to show. If he showed he was happy, they would say he was insensitive when his girlfriend died, but so did Albus Dumbledore. He was sad and he was happy at the same time, yet he couldn't show either emotion. He tried to keep his face impassive.

When Harry got up, Neville stepped beside him, he gave Harry a sad look. All Harry could do was nod. They walked together back up through the castle to Gryffindor tower.

'Even though it is good news about him and his death eaters, it's bad news about Dumbledore and Ginny. I know you're not feeling the best right now Harry, but I need to know if you suspect anyone.'

'No, I mean the death eaters could have died because of the dark mark. Voldemort remade his body, so maybe it wasn't holding or something. I know he could cause the death eaters pain through the mark, maybe he could do more, which is why they died. He might have been dying and used the mark to pull magic or life or something through it to help him stay alive. I don't know if that was even possible. As for Dumbledore, maybe Snape or one of the marked students killed him before they died. I know Voldemort wanted Dumbledore out of the way, so I'm sure he had plans to deal with him. Ginny,' Harry sighed, 'I don't know, unless it's the same thing, one of the death eaters killed her because she was my girlfriend.'

'But they were dead when Ginny was sitting with us in the great hall.'

'Oh, right, sorry, I'm not thinking straight. Maybe it was a supporter who wasn't marked so they didn't die. I don't know Neville. Do you have any idea's about Ginny?'

'Well, I have two theories, one is basically what you said. There is another supporter here that isn't marked and that person killed Ginny. It would have to be a Gryffindor though as it happened in Gryffindor tower. Unless the person snuck in somehow, they would need to have the password, which wouldn't be too hard to get. That's one theory. The other is about girls. I have seen how some girls can be when they like a boy. Some can get really bitchy. Maybe one of them decided if she had any hope of getting you then Ginny would need to go.'

'Really, would some girl really go as far as killing just to get me, or some boy they liked?'

'Some would, not many, but there are some who are just crazy when it comes to the boy they like. I'm not sure if that's the reason, or my first theory. I could be wrong on both counts. One thing mate, because of Madam Bones' announcement, everyone now knows you were telling the truth.'

'I suppose that's one consolation, the only consolation. Since I needed time alone after I was told about Ginny, I didn't see what was going on. Did the Weasley boys go home?'

'Yeah, McGonagall came to get them. Hermione did ask if she would be able to go to the funeral. McGonagall said she would work something out for people like you, Hermione and some of her other friends.'

'Okay, I'm sure she will tell us. But about what we were talking about. There is another way into Gryffindor tower that can bypass the password and bypass the charms on the stairs so boys can go up to the girls dorms.'

'There is?'

'Yeah, my godfather told me my father figured it out when he was a student. See, the portrait is charmed so you need the password. The stairs are charmed to stop boys going up to the girls rooms. But the windows aren't charmed in any way. Mainly because we're in a tower. My dad and Sirius used to fly up to the girls dorms often so they shag some girl. Sirius said they spent more time in the girls dorms than their own during their sixth and seventh years than their own dorm room.'

'Then it might not be a Gryffindor, which doesn't really makes me feel better or know who it could have been,' Neville put his arm on Harry to make him stop, 'Even though losing Ginny is terrible, the war is over, before it even began. I can't help feeling happy about that, which is making me feel guilty because Ginny died along with Dumbledore.'

Harry sighed, 'I know how you feel Neville. While I was eating, I kept thinking about Ginny and how she might be the one. We only just got together and before that I hardly spoke to her and never alone. Then I thought about Voldemort being dead and I wanted to cheer. I wasn't sure if I looked happy, sad, or confused, which is how I was feeling.'

'You seemed…preoccupied. I suppose that's the best way to describe it.'

Since classes had been cancelled and they weren't sure how long, some parent's wanted their kids home. Sirius had actually come to Hogwarts to get Harry so they could look for a new home together. Sirius was free, he wasn't going to stay in his parent's old home any longer. McGonagall actually thought it was a good idea if the students left for two weeks, which should give them time to come to terms with everything that had happened. She did tell the students that they could stay, if they preferred. Only around a dozen students stayed.

Minerva was already planning Albus's funeral, who would be buried on the grounds of Hogwarts. She also had to work on Severus's funeral. He would not be buried at Hogwarts, but in his old hometown and he would be laid to rest beside his mother.

Harry and Sirius arrived at Grimmauld place, Harry called Dobby to he could stay with them, at the house until they found a new house to live in.

'I talked Dumbledore into obliviating Kreacher then I set him free. Once we find a new home, I'll probably just seal this place up. I might remove all the books, put them in my vault, then fix this place up enough to sell it.'

'It's close to London, if you made it muggle, it would probably sell.'

Sirius smiled, 'You know pup, I just might do that. I'll have to get the hag's picture down first. I'm just not sure how.'

'Well, your mother wouldn't believe muggle ways would beat magic, would she?'

'No, she believed they were simpletons.'

'Then use a muggle method and take the whole wall down, without magic. You'll have to make sure the roof is reinforced so it doesn't collapse. It will also open that area up a lot. Many modern muggle homes are going for open plan living now where there are hardly any walls separating things like kitchen, dining and living rooms. They are just this one big space separated by the different furniture.'

'I'm not sure how you mean pup, but I might get you to show me. For now, let's eat then we can go out looking at homes.'

'Yeah, a home.'

Harry and Sirius sat silently while Dobby made them something to eat, 'I'm sorry about your girl pup,' Sirius said the moment they finished eating.

'Yeah,' Harry sighed, 'It's terrible and I feel for the Weasley's. But I also want to dance around and cheer that Voldemort is dead, so I feel guilty for feeling happy.'

'Since the next few days will be spent with just me, looking for a home, you can allow yourself to feel happy that bastard is dead. He went after you more than anyone else, so you should be happy he's finally gone. When you're seen by others, or when we go to the funeral, then you'll show the appropriate emotions.'

'Okay, I can do that. It's just that I feel guilty and partially responsible. I wasn't going to begin dating because I was on the top of his list, so any girl I dated would also be targeted. I think that's why she was killed, because she was my girlfriend.'

'He would have gone after the Weasley's anyway Harry, he called them blood traitors, like me.'

'I suppose you're right. I still feel guilty though.'

'I know and you probably will for a while.'

'Do you know any more about where she was or what she was doing right before? No one at Hogwarts is explaining anything.'

'Minerva explained that Ginny was in Hermione's dorm room. Hermione had to explain everything they did and said to the aurors. They even checked her wand and dorm room for anything like poisons. Hermione said Ginny grabbed her hand and dragged her up to Hermione's dorm room. She said Ginny had just began to talk, about you, then she just dropped. Hermione panicked, then ran straight to the hospital to get poppy. The aurors had to check everything in the room, Hermione was also examined in case she had any type of poison on her, like on her hand when Ginny grabbed it. Ginny would be examined along with everything she had on her.'

'I know Ginny often talked to Hermione about me. At first it was how to show she was interested in me and if I would be interested in her. Hermione, Ron and the twins told me Ginny liked me,' Harry sighed then stared up at his godfather, 'After we made it official, um, well, Ginny said because of the war she wanted to do things in case we die.'

'Did you two have sex?'

'Yeah, it was Ginny's idea and I admit, I didn't really try hard to talk her out of it. Is there any way someone will find out she wasn't a virgin?'

'They might since they will need to do an extensive examination on her to try to find out why she died. She was underage so anything they find will be told to her parents. They might not do any type of tests that would show she wasn't a virgin, I just don't know. Was she your first?'

Harry shook his head, 'Been offered, many times, but I had enough to worry about and most wanted the-boy-who-lived. Ginny knew me, she just thought of me as Harry. But during the holidays, I was really depressed and didn't want to stay in the house with them. This girl found me sitting in the park, she had muggle beer. We ended up drinking, a lot, then she dragged me off to this old abandoned house. We did that a few times,' Harry shrugged.

'A lot of boys your age will. I know it's been different for you then it was for me and your father when we were at Hogwarts. Even though he died, I'm still angry with Albus. Hogwarts used to be safe and it hasn't been in years. Anyway, I know it's too soon to think about it pup, but you'll find someone else and only when you're ready.'

'I know, but I'm not really thinking about girls at the moment, mainly because of…him. Ginny just kissed me and it went from there. I do admit that once she did kiss me, I began to think more of girls and the future. If, or when I do, will you care if she's a Slytherin?'

'No, I know not all of them believed in all that pure blood shit, some remained neutral. So, are you talking about a specific girl, or just asking?'

'Just asking. There was this one Slytherin girl who stared at me a lot, I'm not sure why. She's beautiful, comes across as cold. But I think it's her way of protecting herself. I've heard what some of the boys in Slytherin said about the girls. I heard Malfoy go on about this girl once, how he was going to be the one to show where her rightful place is.'

'Many boys from traditional families are brought up to believe they can treat girls any way they want because of who they are, or how much money they have. Malfoy would be one of those who would believe he could shag any girl he wanted, whether she wanted to or not. You may be right, she acted cold to keep those types of boys away from her. But a bit of advice, if for any reason she does like you, talk to her in private and keep it quiet. You would not come out looking good if you begin dating right after your girlfriend died.'

'Yeah, I already thought of that. I'm not sure I want to, just yet. I might wait until things settle down. I mean I only began dating Ginny so it's not like I had time for deep feelings to develop. She was a friend, but that only started once we were at Grimmauld place. She could never talk to me before that.'

'So, when you do move on to another girl, it won't seem insensitive. You are sad, for your girl and for the Weasley family, but as you said, you haven't had time for strong feelings to develop. Let's forget about that now. We'll eat, relax for the night then tomorrow we'll look for a home.'

It only took Sirius a week to find the perfect home. Since he knew Harry liked to have some privacy, as he never got it before, the home Sirius found was large. It wasn't a mansion, just a very large two-story home in the country. It had been a muggle home, so between Sirius, Harry and Dobby, they got rid of the electric wires and all the power points before they began to make it more a wizarding home.

It was the end of two weeks when they got notified about the funeral for Ginny. Both Harry and Sirius bought new robes, fancy but black, both had their family crest on them. Sirius said Harry should begin to show who he is, a Potter, who will eventually have a seat on the Wizengamot, just as Sirius had a seat. He hadn't had a chance to work on that yet, he would do that once Harry was back at Hogwarts.

Harry and Sirius stood with Neville and the girls from the quidditch team as the service for Ginny Weasley was held. One thing both Sirius and Harry noticed was there were a few aurors around, they just weren't sure why. Was it because they thought there might be danger, or was it that they thought someone in the crowd was responsible for Ginny's death? Since the death eaters and Voldemort was dead, they believed it was to do with the death of Ginny and how she died suddenly. Only Harry knew the truth about why she died and that was one secret he would never reveal to anyone.

When the service finished, Bill approached Harry and Sirius, they were asked to go to the Burrow. Harry said goodbye to his friends before he walked beside Sirius, following the Weasley's back to their home.

When they stepped into the house, they saw all the Weasley's there, along with Hermione. Arthur gestured for them to take a seat.

'We are not sure why…Ginny died, nothing was picked up during the investigation.'

'Even the killing curse will leave a small red mark, it fades after a while. But we know it wasn't the curse since she was fine and with Hermione at the time,' Sirius said, 'Did they check for all types of poisons, like rare or unusual poisons?'

'Yes, they checked for everything, all poisons from the wizarding world. There was only one thing they found that surprised them but it had nothing to do with how she died,' Arthur faced Harry, 'She wasn't a virgin.'

Harry sighed, 'She asked, she figured with how dangerous it was then she wanted to do things now in case anything happened.'

'It's true Mr Weasley, Ginny told me she planned to try things in case she died. She did tell me she planned to ask Harry about…sex,' Hermione said, 'She said she wanted them to both loose their virginity together.'

'I wasn't a virgin,' Harry said but he was still staring at Ginny's father, 'It wasn't anyone at Hogwarts, it was a muggle girl from surrey,' Harry ran his fingers through his hair, 'So they didn't find anything?'

'No, nothing. She was with you and Neville before she was with Hermione.'

'I wonder if it was a muggle method,' Harry murmured.

'What do you mean Harry?' Bill asked.

'Um, well, I've read stories about how some will get assassinated yet there was no marks, until they found a tiny pin prick. Sometimes marks get missed as they might be injected with poison in between their toes or fingers, or even underarms, any place that might not get seen during a normal examination and the mark is so tiny, it doesn't get seen. They've even found marks somewhere on the head, normally the hair would hide it. The poisons they used will breakdown almost instantly so they can't be detected. It's probably not that, I'm just trying to figure out how she died. She said she needed to talk to me and she sounded serious, but Madam Bones approached me at the same time, so I never got to know what Ginny wanted. I couldn't really asked Madam Bones to wait.'

'Did she seem to be acting differently beforehand?' Arthur asked.

'No, well, not really. When she saw the aurors she looked worried, at first, then it was like she figured something out. We talked and figured he sent death eaters to find out how hard it would be to get into Hogwarts. We mainly talked about why the aurors were there, so that's basically what we did until Ginny seemed to figure something out. I don't know, I might be wrong, but she seemed worried about something. Not scared just worried. That's how it seemed to me.'

'She was, she asked if we could talk, that she needed to tell me something important and she sounded anxious,' Hermione said.

'She might have overheard how Albus and the others died,' charlie said.

'She was good at sneaking around,' Fred said.

'Never got caught,' George said.

After talking for a bit longer, all speculating on how Ginny died, no one could come up with an answer. Arthur did say that he will mention what Harry said, about assassinations and marks in-between toes or fingers. Sirius and Harry left, but they had both noticed that Molly went to say something to Harry before she was stopped by Arthur. Harry figured it had something to do with him having sex with her fourteen-year old daughter. They didn't know it, but that wasn't the reason. Molly believed Harry should live with her, not Sirius Black and Arthur knew this, so he knew his wife could cause trouble. Right now, everyone was out to get on Sirius's good side. All Harry had to say was his parents wanted Sirius to raise him, so that's who would be Harry's guardian. No one would dispute what James and Lily Potter wanted for their son. If it came to a fight, Harry would remind Molly that she never tried to get custody of him when he was being abused by the Dursley's. He didn't want to live with her now when he had his real family.

Harry returned to Hogwarts a week later, but Sirius went to Hogwarts as well. Due to the sudden deaths of three of the staff, Minerva had to find people quickly to take transfiguration, defence against the dark arts and potions, even if it was only temporary. Sirius agreed to take her old job as transfiguration teacher. Remus returned to take defence against the dark arts and their old potions teacher, Horace Slughorn returned to Hogwarts after retiring many years before. He was the potions teacher when James, Lily, Sirius and Remus were at Hogwarts.

Harry was sitting with Neville eating breakfast when Hermione sat beside them, 'Even though I know we'll never be close again, I need to ask. Ginny, have you any idea what she wanted to tell me?'

'No, like I said, she wanted to talk to me about something and she sounded serious. Since I had to go off with Madam Bones, she decided to tell you first. I just don't know what it was. She was looking around the great hall a lot and that's when it seemed to me that she figured something out. Maybe she saw something we didn't.'

'She was looking around and at everyone. Maybe she did see something,' Neville said.

'Yes, she may have, if she heard something then you and Neville would have since you were sitting together. If you hear anything can you let me and Ron know?'

'Of course. I might not like Ron anymore, but I wouldn't keep any information about his sister from him.' Harry went back to his dinner, so Hermione got up and moved up to the other end of the table.

'They realised they were wrong for not supporting you over the summer, especially when you needed them. Now they know not to push it.'

'It's like with many people, they would do anything Dumbledore told them, even if they knew it was wrong. Sirius and Remus both knew I should not have been sent there where I would be isolated. It had nothing to do with the dementors, they knew I would need to talk to someone about what happened in the graveyard and it would need to be someone that understood. Sirius knew I hated the people I lived with, so I wouldn't get any type of support from them. Then the dementors turned up which allowed them to tell Dumbledore, I told you so. I was moved the following day. But they expected me to keep telling them things when they supported him and not me, their friend. I didn't, I refuse to have anything to do with them while we were stuck at that house. I did talk to Sirius about what happened and how I was feeling and it helped. Anyway, that friendship is over and even though I didn't want him dead, Dumbledore is out of my life now. Voldemort and his death eaters are dead. Hopefully, it means we can finally have a normal year at Hogwarts.'

'You could be right, maybe you might even end up bored.'

Harry chuckled, 'Yeah, now that would be a miracle.'

Two days later the funeral for Albus Dumbledore was held and on the grounds of Hogwarts. Harry spoke to Sirius, as his guardian and said he didn't want to go to the funeral since he came to hate the old man. If anyone made a fuss, he wanted to leave and hoped Sirius would support him. Sirius did because he had been very disappointed in Albus Dumbledore, especially when it came to his godson's life.

Harry had been given a note from Katie. It said the headmistress wanted to see him right after breakfast. Harry spoke with Sirius straight away and both of them went up to see Minerva McGonagall.

She couldn't hide how upset and disappointed she was that Harry did not turn up for Albus Dumbledore's funeral. Harry explained that because it was his decision to leave him to be abused with disgusting muggles, Harry came to hate the headmaster. He wasn't going to pretend to mourn the man. Minerva ended up shocked. Sirius finally explained more about Harry's life with the Dursley's and understood why Harry didn't like Albus. He didn't even bother to check up on Harry. Sirius even said he would never forgive Albus for what his godson went through. She couldn't dispute what either of them said, so she allowed them to leave. Once they were gone, she turned to look at the portrait of Albus. He looked sad and resigned. He nodded to her so she would know to let it go. She did.

It was a month after all the deaths that Harry and Neville were leaving the great hall when someone bumped into Harry. Daphne Greengrass quickly said sorry before hurrying away. But Harry had a suspicion and when he put his hand in his pocket, he felt some parchment. He told Neville he had something to do then quickly moved over to a dark corner where he could slip the cloak on. He pulled the map out of his pocket to check where Daphne was before he read her note.

Even though Harry felt sorry for the Weasley family and he was sorry Ginny died, he couldn't help smiling. Daphne wanted to talk to him in private. She would be in the room the first years were taken when they arrived and would stay there for an hour.

Harry already knew where she was so he quietly made his way to the room of the entrance way. He slipped inside and pulled off the cloak.

'I heard about the cloak so I figured you would use it.'

'It's the only way I can get any privacy.'

'I can see that. But tell me, how did you know I was alone? This could have been a trap.'

'I have another way to see if you were alone or not so I knew it was safe. I'm not like Ron Weasley where he assumes all Slytherin's are evil death eaters. I prefer to get to know someone before making up my mind. So, you called this meeting. What's it about Miss Greengrass?'

'Daphne, please,' Daphne gave Harry a small smile before she realised she wasn't sure how to start, 'Alright, you see, I never listened to people like Malfoy and Snape when it came to you. And like you, I prefer to get to know someone before I decide if someone is worth knowing, or not. I have nothing against people from other houses, nor do I have anything against muggleborns. I've been watching you for a while, but I knew I could never approach you, not with Weasley and Granger. As you said, Weasley believes all Slytherin's are evil. I happen to be good at reading people, so as I watched you, I finally realised that everything the other Slytherin's said or what the papers say, is not true at all. None of that is really you.'

'No, it's not. If Snape said anything about me than I'm the complete opposite. My godfather explained that Snape was in love with my mother, yet she fell for his enemy, who I happen to look like.'

'That explains his reaction to you. None of us could ever figure out why he seemed to hate you more than everyone else.'

'My father, godfather, Lupin and the rat used to play pranks on many students when they were at Hogwarts. Snape was their main target. He would curse them if he could and if he did curse them, they were dark curses. But usually he was alone so he could never do much. Snape believed I was like my father.'

Daphne nodded showing Harry she now understood.

'I'm sure there is more to this than you just figured out I'm nothing like you've heard from Malfoy and Snape.'

'There is. At first I wasn't sure I should approach you. Then you were dating Weasley I figured there was no use.'

Harry stared at the girl for a minute before he realise what this was about, 'Because of how everyone was, especially people like those marked death eaters, I couldn't turn my attention towards Slytherin. But I noticed you…Daphne. Then, was not the right time, now, is the time, if you're still interested.'

'I am. Let me tell you what got my interest to begin with. You see, I'm a fighter, I won't take shit from anyone especially boys who think they can have any girl they want. I won't cry, I'll hex. I'm not one of those girls that always wants flowers or jewellery. I want a boy that would be my equal but wouldn't want to hang on me all the time. Some can get smothering and I wouldn't handle that. I also need someone that could protect themselves if things escalated. I needed someone like me. Once I began to study all the boys here, I realise you were the only one that would work. I decided to watch and listen and found myself being attracted to you more and more.'

Harry smiled then moved closer, he then took her hand in his, 'What you said is exactly what I thought of when I began thinking about which girl would suit me. I couldn't have a girl that cried, but also one that could fight if it came to that. I would protect when I could but if I was in a fight then I would expect my girl to be able to take care of herself. I needed a girl that wouldn't expect me to show too much romance, at least not in public. In private I might, I can't say at the moment. I haven't really had a chance to see what a relationship is like. I am a private person and that comes down to gossip, rumours and papers like the Daily Prophet. I'm sure you've heard that I will fight and have a few times. I also won't take shit from anyone. When I was younger, I did, I think a lot of kids will just take what is dished out. From my third year I decided no more. It's why my friendship with Ron and Hermione ended. They did wrong by me, I forgave them, they did it again, so that was it. They had their second chance, that's all I give.'

'Then it seems to me…Mr Potter, that we're very well suited.'

'I believe you are right…Miss Greengrass.'

For the next hour there wasn't much talking, they were snogging, with the occasional hands moving in places they shouldn't, at least not yet. But both couldn't seem to help it.

It was Daphne that brought up the subject of keeping their relationship quiet, for now. She knew many would accuse Harry of being insensitive. He's girlfriend only died recently so it would be best to hide their relationship, at least for another few months. It would also give them time to see if they would work. She would also like to ease her friends into the knowledge that she was dating a Gryffindor. Most were like her, weren't against someone just because they were in a different house. It was the fact that she was dating the-boy-who-lived. Snape and Malfoy always went on about how arrogant Harry was, when it wasn't true. Now she hoped her friends listened to her and accepted her relationship with Harry Potter.

Harry did ask if he could tell his godfather who has nothing against Slytherin's, just death eaters. Daphne was fine with that, as she planned to tell her mother. Those two would be the only two who would know about Harry Potter dating Daphne Greengrass, at least for now, then it would be the friends that would be told before anyone else.

That night Harry sat on his bed, he had pulled the curtains closed and put up a silencing charm.

'Sirius Black.' Harry only waited a few seconds before he saw Sirius's smiling face.

'Hey pup, how's everything going?'

'Great. Really great,' Harry grinned.

'Ah, the mysterious Slytherin.'

'Yep, we're dating and it was her that thought we should keep this quiet, for now.'

'She's smart and cunning. She would know how it would look for you and her if you begin dating now. So, you told her you wanted to tell me.'

'Yep and she's telling her mother, but that's all. We said only you two will know, for now. She plans to tell her friends, but not until we've had time to get to know each other. I'll tell Neville soon as well.'

'So, tell me who this girl is?'

'Daphne Greengrass.'

'Ah, I knew her mother, who was in Ravenclaw. Her father, he died during the first war with old Voldy, he was a Slytherin. If she looks anything like her mother than I get why she acted cold. It is an act, right pup?'

Harry smirked, 'Definitely an act. She was anything but cold when we were hidden away.'

'No details. I do not want to hear what goes on in my fifteen-year old godson's love life. But why did you use the mirror instead of coming to my rooms?'

'The portraits. I wasn't sure if they would listen in then tell others, who could talk about it when the students were around.'

'Smart. We sometimes forget they can do that. So, I'll probably have to wait until the holidays to official met her.'

'Yeah, I mean you are one of our teachers, so you could speak with her after one of her classes. Unless you're happy to wait.'

'I might give her a few smiles to let her know I approve. So, you'll tell Neville first?'

'Yes, but not yet, we do need to get to know each other. So far we seem like we fit.'

'I get it pup. When people find out you'll know by then just how well you fit, or not.'

'Right, but I think were suited. She's not one for wanting someone hanging on her every minute of the day. She doesn't expect flowers or jewellery. Naturally, birthdays are different. She will fight if she has to and she's not one for crying.'

'Sounds a lot like you, so yes, you're well suited.'

Harry and Sirius spoke for a few more minutes before they put their mirrors away. But as Harry got himself comfortable in bed, he couldn't stop smiling as he thought of his time with the beautiful blond Slytherin, who happened to be his girlfriend.

Harry did know one thing about this. When people did find out who he was dating, Ron would probably be the one to cause problems, or at least he would keep saying Daphne is evil because she's in Slytherin. He would probably say something about his sister and how Harry shouldn't be dating anyone. Harry planned to ignore him, like he had been since the summer holidays. What he did with his life and who he dated, had nothing to do with anyone else.

Classes went well and Sirius did get a chance to speak with Daphne after class. He spoke with Harry that evening, again using the mirrors. Sirius said she was so much like Harry that he could see them having a long life together. Naturally, they were only students, they wouldn't be planning anything about the future until they had finished at Hogwarts.

Harry and Daphne waited two months before they told their closest friends. Neville said he wasn't surprised. He had seen Daphne during some of the balls his gran held and she always reminded him of Harry, with the way he acted. He thought they were well suited. Tracy Davis, Daphne's best friend, was a little surprised to hear her friend was dating the-boy-who-lived. When Daphne explained how Harry really was, Tracy realised just how many people lied about Harry. She also realised that Draco Malfoy had been jealous of Harry. He was famous and Draco wanted to be so he told lies about Harry. When Daphne explained why Snape hated Harry, she called Snape some nasty names. He took his hatred of a dead man out on an innocent child. Snape had been bullying Harry from the age of eleven just because he was James Potter's son.

It took a few weeks but after Ron returned, he did try to get friendly with Harry again. It didn't work, Harry continued to ignore him. The only time Harry said anything to Ron was when he asked if he heard anything about his sister. Once he answered, Harry would go back to acting like he didn't know Ron was there. Ron finally realised that Harry will never forgive him for following Dumbledore's orders. He had hoped once Harry and Ginny began dating that Harry would talk to him again. Then Ginny died and still no one knew how she died.

'We leave for the holidays in another few days,' Daphne said.

'Yeah and even though I hate admitting this because I never thought I would be that type of boy. But…I'm going to miss seeing you every day Daph.'

Daphne smiled, 'I admit the same, so we're going to have to work on a few visits.'

'Sirius already likes you and he said he liked your mother when they were at Hogwarts. I'm sure we can work it out. You speak with your mother and I'll speak with my godfather.'

During the times that Harry would disappear, Hermione would constantly watch him. One thing she noticed was Neville who always grinned when Harry left the tower. She had a feeling that Neville knew where Harry disappeared to.

Hermione noticed that Harry always seemed to be in a good mood. That was unusual for Harry. She figured that it had to do with the fact Voldemort was dead. But after watching Harry and Neville, she had a feeling that Harry was seeing someone and he was keeping it quiet, Neville was also keeping it quiet. She had begun to watch some of the girls to see if she could figure out who it was. She did have a feeling that it may be Susan Bones from Hufflepuff, or even Luna Lovegood, from Ravenclaw. She knew Harry was friendly with both of those girls. So far, she hadn't picked up anything or saw anything that would say Harry was dating one of them.

Hermione was hurt because she had lost two friends and now, she was frustrated that she couldn't figure out who Harry was seeing, if he was seeing someone. She was also lonely. She didn't have Harry, she didn't have Ginny and Ron had basically left her alone as well. Hermione always knew that Ron only stayed friends with her because Harry was. Then Hermione and Ginny had begun to get close. Now Hermione had no one, not even Ron.

Harry and Neville planned to find a compartment on the train then make sure no one other than Daphne and Tracy could enter. Harry and Daphne wanted to be together on the long train ride but they also wanted their friends with them. It was the beginning of the summer holidays and the couple knew they wouldn't get to see each other as often as they had been. They wanted to use this time to be together.

The moment Daphne and Tracy entered the compartment, Harry pulled down the blinds. Even though Harry and Daphne were ready for everyone to know they were dating, they didn't want any drama's on the train. The prefects were useless and there wasn't any adult that could take care of any trouble someone might cause.

'I've been watching Granger, she knows your seeing someone but she hasn't once looked at any of the Slytherin's,' Daphne grinned.

'She would believe I think like Ron. She might even think all Slytherin's are dark, I don't know if she thinks that or not. Either way, she won't be paying any attention to the girls in the snake pit,' Harry said.

'When are you going to let it be known your together?' Tracy asked.

'We'll probably been seen during the holidays. I mean Sirius said there were a few balls he has accepted invitations to. Sometimes those pictures end up in Witch Weekly.'

'They do, especially when one of those balls is the one Madam Bones is putting on,' Neville said, 'Gran mentioned it in her last letter.'

'Does that mean you're going to be there, Neville?' Tracy asked, giving him a smile.

'Yes, gran believes it's time for me to attend. She's been given me lessons on everything so I'd be ready.'

'Will you be going Tracy?' Harry asked as he looked between his friend and Tracy. He could tell they had begun to have feelings for each other.

'I will, my mother told me in her last letter that she has been invited and wants me to go with her. I know Daphne and her mother is going, so we're all going to be there.'

'Then we might end up having a good night,' Harry said.

A few times during the trip, someone had tried opening the door. They had no idea who it was but none of them were concerned.

When the train got closer to London, Neville and Tracy gave Harry and Daphne some privacy so they could say goodbye.

Harry and Neville walked towards Sirius and Augusta. They did smile at Daphne and Tracy as they joined their mothers.

Sirius and Harry went through the barrier, walked to the secluded lane that was used for apparition, then both apparated. Sirius had been teaching Harry while he had been at Hogwarts. They used the room of requirement. They could not apparate anyone else, but they could apparate from one side of the room to the other. Sirius was going to find out from Amelia if Harry could go for his license early, on his sixteenth birthday. If he couldn't, then Harry would still apparate, he just wouldn't let anyone other than Daphne, Neville and Tracy know. Those three also took lessons with Sirius and all of them could apparate, they just didn't have a license yet.

After Harry unpacked, he joined Sirius in the living room. He was handed a beer. Ever since Harry told Sirius about muggle beer, he always bought it but allowed Harry to have a couple.

'I paid a visit to them, scared the living daylights out of them. Turned that fat thing they call a son into a rat then told them to expect a visit from you once you were an adult, which is just over a year away.'

Harry laughed, 'I bet anything that they will be gone within the next few months, maybe earlier.'

'Yep, I listened after they thought I left. They were already making plans to leave. Petunia actually said they would have to move overseas or you'd be able to find them since you share blood. He fat husband said something about Spain.'

'So, the old man must have told them a bit about the blood wards he put around the house.'

'That's what I believe. So, when is everyone going to know that your dating a snake?'

'We were talking about that on the train. We think since we're all going to the ball that Madam Bones in putting on, word will get out. It's hard to keep anything I do a secret.'

'Yes, it is but eventually it will die off. People will see you doing normal things, that you just won't interest them anymore.'

'Let's hope it's soon.'

The first two weeks of the holidays Harry and Sirius did go sightseeing. They did what a lot of people do when they were on holiday. They decided that after the ball, then they would invite people over. Harry did miss Daphne, but he knew he would be seeing her soon enough.

A couple of days before the ball, Harry and Sirius got fitted for new dress robes. Again, they had their coat of arms on them.

Once they were both dressed and ready, they took the floo to Bones manor. Amelia Bones along with her niece Susan, greeted everyone before they were shown into the ball room. Harry scanned the room, he spotted Daphne straight away. Sirius steered them over. He planned to speak with Caroline Greengrass so his godson could have some time with his girlfriend.

It was only ten minutes later that Neville joined Harry and Daphne, 'Do you realise that a least a dozen photo's have been taken of you two since you got here?'

'We knew it would happen and expected it,' Daphne said.

'Everyone was going to find out about us sooner or later. At least we both look good,' Harry said with a cheeky smile making Daphne and Neville laugh. Minutes later, Tracy joined them.

During the night, many girls asked Harry to dance. He turned them down saying he was dancing with his girlfriend. Neville also got asked, by then, Tracy was his girlfriend.

'Your godson is going to be the reason my daughter will end up appearing on the front page of Witch Weekly and the Daily Prophet.'

Sirius smiled at Caroline, 'They said it was time. But everyone would have to see how good they look together. If you look at some of the other young couples, one of them is touching the other. Harry and Daphne can stand together without being all over each other, unless they are dancing.'

'That's true. Oh, Harry just had this very cheeky look. What is he going to do?'

'Your guess is as good as mine.'

Sirius and Caroline watched the young couple, then both ended up shocked when Harry dipped Daphne down and kissed her, passionately, right there in front of everyone. Then they saw the flashes and knew lots of photo's were being taken of Harry kissing Daphne.

'I think we got our answer. Harry decided that since people were going to find out about them, why not do it in a big way.'

'It's definitely big. Those flashes from the camera's haven't stopped. What I find surprising is how many people have got camera's on them. I believe someone found out that your godson was going to be here.'

'Probably, Harry can never keep anything he does out of the papers. He keeps saying to me, why can't I be just Harry.'

'I believe that will happen, just not yet. Once he is an adult and not doing anything like winning a tournament while underage or fighting a dark wizard. People will see he is just like everyone else.'

'I hope you're right. But do you know that we've had our photo taken as well. I can just see the headlines. It will be I've started seeing you which is how my godson ended up with your daughter.'

'That could be it, or people will say that the two Greengrass woman slipped both of you love potions.'

Sirius laughed because he knew that is probably what many will say. None of the old families will believe it, especially if they saw the Black family ring on Sirius's finger. Those types of rings were charmed to prevent people being poisoned, or if someone used a love potion. Harry will have the Potter ring once he reached the age of 21.

It was as they expected, the front page of all the newspapers and magazines in the wizarding world had the picture of Harry Potter kissing his now girlfriend, Daphne Greengrass when they attended the Bones ball. There were lots of pictures of Harry and Daphne inside along with many pictures of Sirius with Caroline Greengrass.

Ron and Molly went off when they saw the front of the Daily Prophet. Hermione ended up shocked. She had no idea that Harry even spoke with any of the Slytherin's. Now the boy who used to be her friend was dating the one that everyone said was the most beautiful girl at Hogwarts. Hermione would never admit it but she had been jealous of Daphne Greengrass. She was beautiful but she was also one of the smartest people in their year. In some of the classes they shared, she was either equal with Hermione or sometimes she would beat Hermione. Hermione only ever beat her in transfiguration and arithmancy. Now she had Harry, who Hermione hoped would eventually be her friend again. She still hoped that would happen. With who Harry was dating, there was no way that Harry and Ron will end up friends again. Ron hated anyone in Slytherin and he was bound to say something about Daphne to Harry.

The day after Molly saw the picture of Harry with Daphne, she tried to send both a howler. Both their homes were charmed so any howler returned to the sender before they went off. Arthur put his foot down and told her no more howlers. He also said what Harry did with his life and who he dated had nothing to do with her.

Every day during the holidays there were more pictures of Harry and Daphne along with many articles. Only once did Sirius have to threatened the Daily Prophet with being sued. He said if they had proof to back up their stories, they could print what they liked, he knew that. But when they tried to lie, that was something Sirius would never allow. A retraction was instantly published along with an apology to Harry, Daphne and Caroline. It was as Caroline said, they tried to say the two Greengrass woman had used love potions on Harry and Sirius so they could marry into two very old families. The Daily Prophet made a public apology to both Caroline and Daphne.

'We're going to need to work things out so we can spend more time together,' Harry said.

'We will. We can do our homework right after curfew,' Daphne said.

'So from dinner, we can spend time together until curfew,' Neville said.

'That gives us a few hours, we just have to make sure we don't get caught,' Tracy grinned making the others laugh.

Harry already knew he and Daphne would be using the room of requirement a lot. He figured the room turned into anything he wanted, he might be able to work it so it's two separate rooms so Neville and Tracy could use it at the same time but both couples would have privacy.

Because of the deaths of staff and students, the owls had been put off. The sixth year students who should have done their owls at the end of their fifth year will be taking them two weeks after they returned to Hogwarts. The newt students from the previous year had to go to the ministry to do theirs during the summer holidays. So even though the first few weeks would be hectic, Harry, Daphne, Neville and Tracy planned to spend as much time as they could together.

The four had gone shopping together and because of their age, they didn't have their parents or guardian with them. They ended up spending the day in Diagon alley. They bought everything they needed for their sixth year at Hogwarts but they also spent time looking in some shops but also having an icecream. Reporters turned up, they were ignored but many photo's were taken of the two young couples, more of Harry and Daphne.

When they left Diagon alley, Daphne and Tracy used the floo in the Leaky Cauldron. Neville waited until they left before he used the floo. Harry snuck into London, found a secluded spot and apparated home.

One look on Harry's face told Sirius that something happened while his godson was out with his girlfriend.

'It's fine Sirius, just reporters and lots of photo's, again. We decided to have an icecream after we finished shopping. All we were doing was eating an icecream but the flashes kept going.'

'You'll be at Hogwarts in a few days and they can't get in there. You shouldn't put up with it but we also can't do much about it. At least they can't write lies anymore.'

'Yeah, it's just all we're doing is what other teenagers are doing, nothing special or exciting. I hope it eases soon. I mean the-boy-who-lived was when I was a baby and I had nothing to do with his demise this time.'

Sirius really didn't know what to say to make his godson feel better because he knew there was nothing anyone can do to prevent reporters from following Harry when he was out in public.

Harry, Daphne, Neville and Tracy got on the Hogwarts express early so they wouldn't have people staring or following them. Sirius had shown Harry a good locking charm that will stop anyone on the outside from opening the door. Anyone on the inside can open it at any time. They could hear what was going on outside their compartment, in case something happened.

'Since everyone knows about us, well, more you two than us. It's bound to have everyone watching what you two do from the moment we step into the castle,' Neville said.

'We know and expect it. Tracy and I are going to sit opposite with my back to the hall,' Daphne said, 'That way I don't have to see all the girls sending death glares at me.'

Harry and Neville laughed, 'We worked out to do the same thing. Harry will have his back to the hall. It just means you two can't stare at each other.'

'I plan to turn around after everyone begins eating,' Daphne said.

'I'll do the same,' Harry said.

Neville and Tracy grinned. Their best friends were madly in love and couldn't ignore the other if their lives depended on it.

Their door was knocked on a dozen times during the trip. They never answered. One time a prefect asked them politely if they would open the door, they did. Neville was the one who opened the door and spoke with the prefect from Hufflepuff.

'We just have to make sure you aren't doing anything you're not supposed to. I can just see four friends enjoying their privacy.'

'Thanks Susan,' Neville said giving her a smile before he shut the door, 'I saw Hermione standing a few feet away, listening.'

'She probably knew I was in here. Let's not worry about it, we're almost there.'

Harry, Daphne, Neville and Tracy got the last carriage up to the castle. They waited until everyone left the train before they did.

It was like they suspected, all eyes turned to the four friends when they entered the great hall. Harry rolled his eyes which made Daphne laugh, then he gave her a small kiss before they went to their house tables. Tracy and Neville did the same.

Right after the first years were sorted Neville grinned, 'Every eye in on you or Daphne.'

Harry shook his head as he groaned, 'We knew it would happen. Hopefully everyone will stop staring after some time.'

'They will, eventually. Ron hasn't stopped glaring at you but he doesn't seem like he is going to say anything, just glare.'

'I expected that as well, I'm just not sure if he will. I believe his father might have said something to him that could get him in serious trouble or worse, expelled.' Harry began eating but he did turn to grin at his girlfriend, who grinned back. Even though they planned to stay facing away from the other students, they just couldn't stop staring at the other. Neville and Tracy kept chuckled at how often Harry and Daphne would throw each other kisses or just stare at each other. Even though everyone was eating, including the staff, all eyes kept turning towards Harry and Daphne.

Neville kept his wand in his hand when he entered the dorm room. Harry didn't need to as he could do a few spells without a wand. They were waiting for Ron to come in and see if he did anything. Harry was positive Ron wouldn't, just continue to glare. He really believed Ron's father would have warned Ron to stay silent and away from Harry.

When Ron stomped in, he went straight to his bed. He changed, got into bed then yanked the curtains around him. All Neville did was raise his eyebrows at Harry who nodded. Only then did both boys relax before they got themselves changed.

The first two weeks, the sixth years ended up taking their fifth year owls. It was a gruelling two weeks and all of them couldn't help cheering when they were finished.

Over the following months, the stares did ease off. One thing Harry liked, there was no trouble or danger. The only thing he had to put up with was Ron glaring at him. Harry also had to put up with Hermione, who seemed to appear whenever he was with Daphne. They spent a lot of time in the library studying but Daphne was also teaching Harry ancient runes. She also helped explained things from their classes. Harry had explained to Daphne that when Hermione explained things, she did so in a way that he ended up more confused. Daphne was very good at teaching him what he had trouble with. Daphne also got some private lessons from Harry on defence. Even though they had a great defence teacher now, the students were still catching up from all the bad teachers they had, which is why Daphne wanted some extra lessons from Harry.

Sirius decided to remain teaching. He found being a teacher suited him and the students seemed to like him as well. Remus also remained as a teacher but during the full moon, Sirius would take his class while Minerva would take transfiguration.

Seventh year brought a surprise for Harry. He was made head boy. Sirius explained how the same thing happened to James. He wasn't a prefect but ended up head boy. Daphne ended up head girl, which surprised a lot of people. Many thought Hermione would be head girl. Sirius confided in Harry that she was rejected due to her attitude and how she spoke with people. Sirius said that most first, second and third years would have no idea what she was saying half the time. When the head boy and girl spoke with the prefects, Hermione glared at Daphne but a few times she tried to talk to Harry, he still ignored her and stayed next to his girlfriend.

It was during that year that Neville and Tracy ended up using the room of requirement. Harry did offer them to choice of that or using his head boy room. He planned to spend a lot of time with Daphne in the head girl room.

It was right after Christmas that the stares and talk began again. When Harry and Daphne returned to Hogwarts after the holidays, Daphne was wearing a beautiful big ring on her left hand ring finger. Everyone noticed it straight away and knew that Harry and Daphne were engaged to be married. They both knew it would mean attention again but they hoped after a while, it would ease off, like it did before.

The friends were expecting Harry and Daphne to be written about again and the following morning when the Daily Prophet arrived there was a picture of Daphne showing her ring to some of her female friends but her eyes were on Harry who was smiling at his fiancee. Harry had to roll his eyes at the headline. The-boy-who-lived had found the one who he would spend the rest of his life with. All Daphne could do was smile at Harry.

It didn't seem to matter that the-boy-who-lived was sixteen ago, Harry just couldn't shake the title. He was never seen doing anything spectacular, just doing what any normal seventeen year old young man did. But to the wizarding world, he will always be the-boy-who-lived.

The end: