A/N Sorry for the ridiculously long wait. Life has gotten in the way. There will be probably 2-3 more chapters and an epilogue so we are reaching the end. I promise I haven't given up on this story, I will try to get the next chapter up much quicker.

Chapter 17 – Bellatrix and Werewolves

After McGonagall left, Harry and Amelia began their hunt for the remaining Horcruxes. As the sun set they were both staring into an empty clearing in the woods outside Little Hangleton.

"There is something there. I can feel it," said Harry.

"Well, maybe if we just start walking towards it….." Amelia said as she turned in Harry's direction. Harry nodded.

"Alright, let's go, slowly now." The pair took several steps towards the centre of the clearing when suddenly they felt a rush of magic rush over them. They both dropped to their knees from the intensity. When they recovered, they looked around and noticed the forest was gone. In its place they were surrounded the remnants of fiendyfyre. They both stood to see a pile of rubble ahead of them that looked like it may have been a shack at some point.

"Quite intense protection spells for a place like this," said Amelia in confusion.

"Yah, my thoughts exactly," said Harry. They used their magic to sift through the ruins until they uncovered enough of what used to be the floor for Harry to sense where the Horcrux was hidden. He lifted the remaining floor boards and pulled out a small chest. Harry opened the chest to see the Gaunt family ring. He could hear the Horcrux calling for him, urging him to touch it. He searched for Voldemort's magical signature and then whispered Merlin's altered spell for the first time.

'Magicae Effusio Anima Vestea.' A black string of smoke swirled out of the ring and sped like a bullet through the air straight into Harry's mouth with enough power to knock him backwards a few feet. Harry landed on the ground with a groan and a strong pulse of magic burst from his chest, keeping even Amelia from checking on him. Harry closed his eyes and the image of Tom Riddle filled his mind. He was a few years older than the version from the diary but he had yet to undertake the rituals that so drastically changed his appearance.

"Ah, Harry Potter. I am glad it is you that has found me. I would have been disappointed to have been denied the chance to meet you."

"How do you know my name? I wasn't around in your time."

"The part of me inside you speaks to me. It tells me all I need to know about you. How did that happen I wonder?"

"I don't owe you an explanation and I have no intention of telling you." Harry shivered slightly as he could practically feel Tom shrug in his mind.

"It is no matter. I will know your soul as well as my own soon enough. I can feel your magic. It is very powerful – very enticing. I can't wait to play with it."

"You wish Tom,"

"You think you are more powerful than me? We shall see."

"Tell me, why the obsession with these Horcruxes. Didn't you realise that splitting your soul so many times would shatter your sanity."

"What does it matter. I am still the most powerful and feared sorcerer in the world, and this way I cannot be defeated."

"I will defeat you." Tom laughed.

"But why? We could be great together. Your power, my intellect and cunning. We would be unstoppable. Let me show you," said Tom as he reached towards him.

"No!" Screamed Harry as he forced his eyes open and took control. When Tom's magic receded, Amelia immediately ran to his side and gasped at the colour of his eyes. The irises looked like they were on fire; swirls of red and orange until they finally settled back on green, but only momentarily.

"Take me back to Grimmauld Place Amelia and then put this somewhere safe," Harry said as he handed her the chest with the ring. "The stone is cursed," Amelia nodded and pulled him up to his feet before apparating them both away.

When the duo got back to their house Amelia immediately pulled him in for a searing kiss. Several moments later, they sat down for a cup of tea. Harry had Kreacher make him a hearty snack.

"Did you learn anything?" Amelia asked as she eyed Harry hesitantly. She relaxed some when she noticed his eyes seemed to have permanently returned to his usually bright green.

"Dumbledore was right. Tom was obsessed with the founders. I imagine he tried to make a Horcrux for each house, like Salazar's locket. I know he never got a hold of Godric's sword, but he easily could have gotten something that was important to Rowena and Helga," Harry shared as he sipped his tea.

"I'll go do some research at the ministry tomorrow and see if I can find a lead," said Amelia.

"That would be great Amelia, thank you."

"You're alright?" She asked.

"I think so, but I think I need as much time as possible between each absorption so we should wait awhile before we check out the cave," said Harry.

"Of course, whatever you need," said Amelia as she came to sit in his lap. Harry gently put his cup down on the table and then pulled her down for a passionate kiss. Neither knew how long they were kissing but at some point they were forced to pull away when Susan came in coughing something that sounded suspiciously like 'get a room.' When she left the kitchen they took her advice and quickly headed for the bedroom.

The next morning Harry and Amelia said goodbye in the lounge before Amelia headed to work. As Amelia reached for the floo powder, Harry stopped her. "Amelia?"

"Yes, Harry?" She asked curiously as she stepped away from the fireplace.

"I love you. I've been wanting to tell you for awhile," Harry said. Amelia smiled brightly.

" I - I love you too," she whispered. Amelia rushed forward and gave him a searing kiss before she backed away and reached for the floo powder again. She was still smiling as the flames engulfed her. When she was gone Harry apparated to Emrys manor. He decided to look around the library for a book on the founders before he went to find Narcissa.

As he found tomes that he thought might be useful, he put them on the small table near the sofa and then continued searching. When he got to the last row, the hairs on the back of his neck stood up. Someone was watching him. 'Bellatrix.'

His urge to find her battled with his urge to stay as far away from her as possible, but in the end it didn't matter. He didn't need to bother making a decision because suddenly Bellatrix appeared in front of him, her eyes dark with desire and a dangerous smile playing across her features.

"There is more of the Dark Lord in you now, I wonder why that is?" Bellatrix said as she paced in front of him. Before Harry could even think of a response, she was flush against him, whispering into his ear.

"I can give you everything you want Harry, everything your other lovers cannot. I can fulfil those darkest urges you are to afraid to ask of them. With me, you can embrace the darkness. I know you want to, and in return I can give you what you seek, another piece of the Dark Lord's soul," Harry's eyes widened as he searched her mind. He went to push her away, but the moment he touched her he lost control and suddenly he was pushing her hard into the bookcase as he forcefully explored her mouth with his tongue. Several minutes later, Bellatrix moaned and Harry harshly grabbed her by the bottom and lifted her. She instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist as he carried her to a nearby table. Harry set Bella on the table and fiercely ripped her clothes off. Red flames swirled in his eyes as he gazed over her naked form. He let one finger trail up her chest slowly until he was firmly gripping her neck.

"Is this what you want Bellatrix? Do you want me to hurt you? To use you? To take from you?" Harry growled.

"Yes," choked out Bellatrix, but the look in her eyes expressed something different. This may be what she was used to, but it wasn't what she wanted. She wanted the one thing she had always been denied, the thing he had with Narcissa, love. It was enough for Harry to regain control and he slowly loosened his grip and stepped away.

"No, I won't use you," he said. "These parts of Voldemort won't be here forever, eventually it will only be Harry Potter-Emrys left. If you want to be with me, that is who you have to love. Until then, this can't happen again."

"You think you can overpower him?" Bellatrix asked in amusement.

"I must." Harry said, and he quickly turned and walked away, but then he stopped and turned back. He watched Bellatrix for several moments trying to decide if he could trust her.

"I assume you know how to do a glamour charm?" Harry eventually asked.

"I do," said a breathless Bellatrix, squirming slightly from the intensity of his stare.

"Then get on with it. We will visit your vault in Gringotts and then I'll take you to lunch. It can be our first date, give us a chance to get to know each other," said Harry as he left, leaving behind a heaving and shocked Bellatrix Black.

Harry retreated to the bedroom that he shared with Narcissa where he took a cold shower and then spent some time getting his magic under control and making sure Tom was well under lock and key. An hour later, he walked down to the lounge to see a petite strawberry blonde woman sitting near the fire sipping a cup of tea. She appeared to be about twenty five and was eyeing Harry with a mischievous smile.

"Will this do my lord?" Said Bellatrix as she put down the cup. Harry nodded.

"Are you ready to go?" he asked.

"Yes," said Bellatrix as she sauntered over and took his arm. Harry gave her one more once over before apparating them to Gringotts.

"Let me do the talking," said Harry as they walked up the stairs.

"Fine," grit out Bellatrix, clearly not pleased with being silenced.

"I'll make it up to you, just do as I ask," responded Harry. Bella eyed him curiously and then nodded as they reached the entrance. They walked arm in arm towards the first available teller. Bellatrix gasped as she noticed each goblin's deep bow as they passed.

"Master teller, I need to speak with Ragnuk as soon as possible. It is urgent business that cannot wait," said Harry after a slight bow to the goblin.

"Of course Lord Emrys. He will only be a moment," responded the teller. Moments later a small army of goblins walked into the main chamber.

"Lord Emrys, this way please."

"Thank you my friends," said Harry as he followed after them. Once Harry and Bellatrix were both sitting comfortably in front of an ornate desk, Ragnuk walked in looking grim.

"Lord Emrys, Mrs. LeStrange. To what do we owe the pleasure of your sudden visit?" Asked Ragnuk. Harry winced.

"Do you know what a Horcrux is Ragnuk?"

"Unfortunately yes, it is vile dark magic even for you wizards."

"Voldemort has put one in the LeStrange vault. We are here to get rid of it."

"I see, and how can the goblin nation repay you for this service?" asked Ragnuk.

"I believe according to your account regulations, the entire vault will be taken as payment for the breach," clarified Harry.

"Yes."

"I ask that you end Bella's marriage to LeStrange and make her a ward of House Black. After we remove the Horcrux I ask that you transfer what remains of the vault into a personal vault for Miss Black. Any goblin made artefacts may be kept by the nation of course," responded Harry. Ragnuk smiled.

"I suppose we can make an exception this once," said Ragnuk. "Shall we go to the LeStrange vault now then. Once the soul piece is taken care of we can come back here and sort the paperwork.

"That would be great, thank you Ragnuk," replied Harry as he bowed his head. After a few more formalities were addressed the trio and a few goblin guards took Ragnuk's personal cart to the vault. Bellatrix easily gained access and then turned to stop Harry as he began to follow her in.

"Don't touch anything. Everything in here is spelled to duplicate, or worse, if touched by anyone other than me or Rodulphus," explained Bella. Harry nodded his understanding and put his hands deep in his pockets. Once Bella found the cup she delicately held it out for Harry. Harry conjured a box to put it in and then shrank it so it fit in his pocket.

Once they returned to Ragnuk's office it took a half an hour to make the arrangements for making Bellatrix a ward of House Black. She was offered any of the properties, but said she wanted to stay at the Emrys manor with Cissy. When they left Gringotts, they walked hand in hand to a little bistro off the beaten path of Diagon alley. It was a bit more elegant than the leaky cauldron, and much quieter since there was less traffic. Harry hoped there was less chance of them being noticed.

"Order whatever you would like Bella," said Harry as he looked over the options.

"I've never been on a date before." Bellatrix whispered as she looked around the establishment "And I don't even remember the last time I ate in a restaurant. It feels strange." Harry laughed.

"Your sister said the same thing the first time I took her to dinner, though I suppose the circumstances were very different" Harry smiled kindly at Bellatrix as his tone turned serious. "I can't pretend to understand how difficult of an adjustment all this is for you, but you don't have to deal with it alone. For now, just relax and enjoy the food. There are no expectations today, we are just getting to know each other." Bellatrix let out a deep sigh and nodded.

After they ordered, Harry asked Bellatrix about her interests and dreams for the future.

"I – well – to be honest I haven't really had many interests other than torturing mud – "

Harry waited patiently for her to sort out her thoughts and pretended not to hear her slip.

"I don't know who I am without the dark lord's influence, it has been so long. I have long forgotten what it feels like to have goals and dreams for the future or a will of my own that isn't buried in madness."

"Well you have plenty of time to think about what your future might look like and form new – hobbies. What did you enjoy before you joined Voldemort's ranks?"

"Dueling, creating new offensive spells and I've always had a knack for transfiguration." Harry nodded

"That's a start then." Harry continued to ask questions until Bella was relaxed as speaking freely. Eventually she even started returning his questions with ones of her own. While they ate Harry spoke of his own dreams and interests, what he hoped to accomplish once Voldemort was gone. He knew his time in this life was limited, but he wanted to make some changes for the better before he had to disappear.

Harry was surprised by how quickly the meal passed and the duo were soon on their way back to the manor. Later that evening Harry spoke with Narcissa about the days events as they got ready for bed.

"You have decided to give her a chance?" asked Narcissa with a hint of surprise as she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him soundly. "I thought it was too risky?"

"She is an unknown component. One I had not counted on during our time in Albion. I don't know what kind of impact it will have on my plans, but she deserves a chance Cissy. When all of Voldemort is gone, she can decide if she wants to stay or go, but the choice will be hers. From now on, the choice will always be hers."

"Have I told you lately how sexy you are when you get all noble?"

"No I don't think you have," responded Harry with a smirk.

"Well then, come to bed husband and let me show you."

As Narcissa slowly drifted off to sleep listening to the rhythmic beating of Harry's heart against her cheek, she wiped a tear from her eye as she whispered into the silence that surrounded.

"Morgana, protect him."

o – o – o – o – o

Saturday night Remus came to Grimmauld Place as discussed. Amelia, Narcissa, Draco, Snape and the head healer at Saint Mungo's were also present. Remus seemed nervous about the audience, so Harry did his best to reassure him.

"You will never need to take the potion again once it works, so we only have one opportunity to see it in action. Thank you again Remus, for volunteering," said Harry with a kind smile. Remus nodded.

"Head healer Walker is here to not only observe but give you the standard exam before and after to ensure it has worked the way we expect. Is that all right Remus?"

"Yes of course," said Lupin with a hint of nervousness in his voice. The healer stepped forward and ran a series of diagnostics ending with the check to ensure Remus did in fact have Lycanthropy. With a reassuring smile aimed at Remus he stepped away.

"He has fully entangled Lycanthropy, but other than that is completely healthy. Well, as healthy as can be given the time of the month. He should suffer no ill effects from the process."

"Very good. Well then Remus, are you ready?" Harry asked as the sun began to set.

"Yes, let's do it," said Lupin. Harry squeezed his shoulder in gratitude and then took the small vial from the table and handed it to Remus. He eyed it warily for a moment before he took a deep breath and swallowed the contents. "It doesn't taste nearly as bad as the Wolfsbane potion. That's a relief." Remus let out a nervous chuckle. Harry smiled at him.

"Where do you want to contain it?" Harry asked.

"Um, my leg I guess. My left leg." Said Lupin.

"Alright," said Harry. As the moon began to peak out behind the clouds Harry focused on Remus's leg and the black tendrils of the curse circulating in his magic.

"Contineo lupus incurusus," he whispered as he touched Lupin's left foot softly and focused the black tendrils into the limb. Remus gasped in surprise as he felt something in him begin to change, but it wasn't how it usually felt. There was no agonizing pain just a strange tingling sensation in his foot, which suddenly felt heavy. He watched in awe as his foot changed shape and his nails and toes elongated. He watched his leg get skinnier and covered in thick hair. He expected to watch it slowly progress up his body, but it stopped just below the knee and as quickly as it had come the tingling sensation stopped. He looked around the room as tears filled his eyes. For the first time in over thirty years, Remus Lupin didn't change at the full moon. His mind and instincts were completely in his control and he was in no pain.

"Well, how was it? Asked Harry in curiosity as Narcissa came up and wrapped one arm around his waist and kissed his cheek discretely while conjuring a chair for Remus to sit in.

"I'm, ... fine. It tingled a little bit, but compared to the pain I have come to expect of an actual change I barely felt it. So this is the most that will ever happen?" Remus asked in awe as he took the seat with a grateful nod to Narcissa. It would take some time for him to get used to the feeling of his changed leg.

"Yes," replied Harry. Narcissa and the head of Saint Mungo's walked over to Remus and simultaneously ran several diagnostic tests on him.

"Incredible, there is absolutely no trace of lycanthropy in your blood. For all intents and purposes, you are cured. If you would be willing to come back to Saint Mungo's with me we can discuss your options as far as dealing with your leg," shared Healer Walker in excitement. Remus nodded. The doctor took Lupin's arm as he turned to Harry and Narcissa.

"I have a feeling the two of you are going to change the world, I look forward to seeing what else you come up with, but I'm not sure I will appreciate the extra work load," he said with a smirk.

"Tell me about it," commented Amelia, causing everyone in the room to chuckle.

o – o – o – o – o

A week later, Amelia came bursting through the fireplace while Harry, Narcissa, Bellatrix and Draco were eating dinner. She gave Harry a chaste but meaningful kiss and then handed him a sealed ministry stamped envelope. Harry eyed it curiously before opening it at Amelia's insistence.

"Is this for real?" Harry asked in surprise as he read over the documents.

"Yes," said Amelia as she joined them at the table and let out a relieved sigh as she relaxed into the chair.

"How did you get it done so fast?" Harry asked with a smile as he handed the papers to Narcissa so she could see the evidence for herself.

"I added it on to a simple contract with one of his most generous donors. Yes, he may not be as corrupt as Fudge was but all politicians have donors," said Amelia, answering the question before it was asked. " He thinks he simply agreed to increase security at certain Wizengamot meetings/functions in exchange for extra funding for the DMLE. It's not my fault there was a major disruption outside his office and he didn't have a chance to read all the fine print before he hastily signed it and went to investigate what was going on." Harry chuckled.

"Well done Amelia. That was brilliant planning." Complimented Harry.

"Bellatrix is pardoned?" whispered Narcissa, barely daring to believe it could be true.

"What?" yelled Bella as she rose from the table. "Give me that." She fiercely snatched the parchment out of Narcissa's shaking fingers. Her eyes welled with tears as she read.

"I'm free," she whispered. Bella clung the parchment to her chest and gave a grateful nod in Amelia's direction before she sat back down.

"I have to get back. I just wanted to give you the good news as soon as I could," said Amelia as she reluctantly got up from the table.

"Thank you Amelia," said Narcissa with a genuine smile. Amelia shrugged.

"It was actually a lot easier then I thought it would be." She leaned over and gave Harry a parting kiss before walking back to the fireplace. 'See you tomorrow night love'

o – o – o - o

Two weeks later Narcissa was happily sitting in her Wizengamot chamber after the session. The Emrys chamber was fancier then the rest and she found it to be a very peaceful place to work, especially when she needed a break from the constant distraction of her sister. She was not at all surprised when she heard a firm knock on her door, nor was she surprised to see Lord Greengrass in the doorway with a marriage contract.

"I have the contract for your review Lady Emrys."

"Very well," said Narcissa as she motioned for him to leave it on her desk. She kept working, only looking up to give a curt nod when he did so.

"Is your family available for dinner tomorrow night?" Narcissa asked as Lord Greengrass turned around to leave.

"Yes of course," he replied in a mix of curiosity and confusion.

"Splendid. Then we expect you at 12 Grimmauld Place at 6. The password is purity." Said Narcissa finally looking up from her work. "I would like a chance to speak with Astoria myself before making my decision. If I am pleased I will sign the contract before you go home."

"We will be there."

"Wonderful," said Narcissa with a small but genuine smile before turning back to her paperwork and making it clear that Lord Greengrass was dismissed.

The next evening Draco, Harry, and Narcissa were awaiting their guests in the formal lounge. Five minutes to six the flames burst to life and Lord Greengrass walked through quickly followed by his wife and two daughters. Astoria was last to come through and looked nervous as she straightened her dress and gave a deep bow to the hosts.

"Lord and Lady Potter-Black-Emrys, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance," she said shyly. As she looked up she saw Draco and her nervous expression changed quickly to joy.

"Hello Draco."

"We are very pleased to welcome you and your family into our home Astoria. Come, walk with me. I will lead you to the dining room and we can get to know each other better," said Narcissa encouragingly as she put her arm out for the young girl.

Dinner was pleasant. Nobody knew what to expect from the Lord Emrys, but it didn't take long for the Greengrass family to see what kind of person he was and they quickly relaxed. Narcissa could see how much Draco and Astoria cared for one another, and agreed that she would fit into their family nicely. Draco's happiness was enough of a reason for her, but she was glad she could be confident about the girls character as well.

After the meal was finished the adults excused themselves to Narcissa's study, giving Draco and Astoria a chance to speak about the arrangements. Daphne choose to go home and was escorted to the floor on the way to the study.

Once Draco was finally alone with Astoria, he pulled her in for a chaste kiss and then led her to the family lounge so they could be more comfortable.

"You haven't said anything about my appearance," started Draco once they were settled on the sofa. "I hope it is not displeasing to you." Draco was pleased to see her blush at his comment.

"You look very handsome Draco," Astoria quietly replied. Draco took her hand in his and then told her everything that had happened. He described his rescue, adoption and everything Harry and his mother had told him about what had happened to them. When he finished, they sat in silence for several moments until Astoria worked up the courage to ask the question that had been nagging her since her father told her about Draco's adoption, his new titles, and what would be expected of her if she were to marry him, which her father very much approved of.

"Have you any idea who your second wife will be?" she whispered, not sure if she wanted Draco to have heard her question or not, but he had. Draco sighed and ran his fingers through his hair in a way that very much resembled Harry.

"I admit this is a situation that I never imagined finding myself in. I know it is not what you envisioned either and I apologize that it was thrown at you so unexpectedly. I – I understand if you don't want this."

" I want to marry you Draco, even knowing you will take another wife and I will have to share your affections, I just – it would be nice if it someone I could get along with, maybe even be friends with, they will be apart of my life just as much as yours." Draco nodded his head.

"That makes sense. It would be unfair to you to marry someone that made you uncomfortable. My life will certainly be easier if you can tolerate each other," said Draco with a chuckle. " You can have the final say in anyone I am interested in Astoria. I agree that for this to work they have to be a fit for us both." Astoria let out a sigh of relief.

" Thanks Draco... So any prospects?"

"Well, yes, one actually. I have been spending a lot of time with Susan Bones since she moved in here and we've become quite close."

"But isn't her aunt dating your – f – father? Wouldn't that be awkward?" Draco shrugged.

"I don't think so. Harry can't have any heirs, that's why I'm responsible for both lines. Don't ask why, I don't really know, some weird Emrys thing, but what I'm saying is any children he has with Amelia will be heirs to the Bones title. I think Harry would be happy to have Bones blood helping continue his line."

"Maybe," Astoria said hesitantly. "I haven't spent much time around Miss Bones, but she seems nice, she is a Hufflepuff after all. I suppose the three of us should spend some time together and go from there." Draco nodded his agreement

o – o – o - o - o

A few weeks later McGonagall made an unexpected house call to ask Harry if he would consider taking the post of transfiguration Professor at Hogwarts. Harry couldn't help but chuckle before both Narcissa and Amelia slapped him for being rude.

"I'm sorry Headmaster but I don't have time to lecture. This war needs to end and you and I both know I am the only one that can do it. Afterwards...maybe, but not now."

"I can give you all the lesson plans, assign NEWT students to help you with marking and promise that no additional duties are required of you. You can teach your lessons and then come straight home."

"It is a fantastic offer Headmaster, but I can't take it. I do however have an alternative suggestion for you," offered Harry.

"Oh?" said McGonagall in surprise.

"Bellatrix," said Harry matter of factly.

"Bellatrix," repeated Minerva. "As in Bellatrix Lestrange?"

"Well it's Bellatrix Black now, but yes that is who I mean."

"But Harry she's" Minerva paused to look around as if the woman herself was about to jump out of the walls " – she's a death eater"

"She was never a death eater by choice and her madness was completely induced. I can show you all of her memories to prove it and Amelia has gotten her a pardon so she is a free woman and she deserves a chance."

"You got her a pardon? As a family favour or something? That's unlike you Amelia," said McGonagall as she turned to Amelia in clear displeasure.

"It was no such thing Minerva. I saw her memories and did what was right. I wish there was more I could do to give her back the years that were stolen from her," said Amelia sincerely. Minerva couldn't miss the angry fire in her dear friend's eyes.

They sat in silence for several moments until Narcissa softly added her input.

"I know you remember Bella as a student headmaster. Before Miss Granger she was considered the brightest witch of the age. You know as well as anyone how gifted she is at Transfiguration. In fact, if I remember correctly you offered her one of your coveted internship positions before she was made to marry LeStrange," said Narcissa.

"I will think about it," said McGonagall. "But I would like to see those memories.

o – o – o – o - o

As the Hogwarts students were boarding the train Harry, Bellatrix and a small group of ex death eaters found themselves wandering through a forest near Malfoy Manor as Harry tracked the magical signature of Fenrir Greyback.

He had originally planned on bringing Amelia but if anyone could put fear into the heart of a werewolf it was Bellatrix and he hoped she would take it for what it was a sign of his growing trust. Harry checked the time, they needed to hurry if Bellatrix was going to make it to the welcoming feast on time.

Just as frustration was beginning to set in, Harry suddenly stopped walking and signaled to the others. This was the place and he could feel that they were being watched, from the magical signatures he could sense there were at least a hundred werewolves surrounding them. He intentionally kept his magic contained so that Greyback would underestimate him but he wasn't stupid enough to let his guard down.

"You dare to come into our land. You are either very brave or very foolish." Harry's hairs stood on end as he heard a grating voice he was all too familiar with from Lupin's memories; Fenrir Greyback.

"I am here to make you an offer and convince you that Voldemort is not worth your time," said Harry.

"And if I refuse to listen to what you have to say?" asked the werewolf as he smirked. Harry shrugged.

"Then I kill you and negotiate with the new Alpha. It makes no difference to me." Greyback looked at him in surprise for several seconds before laughing raucously. Before Harry could release his magic Greyback was already writhing on the floor in the aftermath of a crucio credit of Bellatrix. Harry looked over at Bellatrix with an amused smile.

"I appreciate the help Bella, but I can handle him." Bella just shrugged. At that moment Harry noticed the hundreds of werewolves surrounding them amongst the trees as they slowly came out into the open. 'I need to treed carefully now. This is my chance to win over the majority. It will be easier if they witness the encounter themselves.'

"Will you listen to me or not, I have no desire to kill your whole pack, especially when what I have to offer will help them, but I assure you Greyback I will do what is necessary."

Greyback got weakly to his feet. He pretended to think about Harry's question for a moment before lunging at him, causing the other werewolves to the same.

Before any of his companions could even blink the fight was over. Fenrir let out an agonized howl as human and werewolf alike watched him turn to silver from the inside out and then shatter into thousands of pieces. The remaining werewolves immediately stopped their assault and began to move back into the trees. Harry reached out with his magic. He was not surprised by the chaos and panic that reigned in each of their minds, but he was pleasantly surprised by their widely neutral impressions of him. 'Maybe they will let me help them.'

"Who is the new alpha?" bellowed Harry. It was silent for awhile but then a large, muscular man with a long beard stepped forward.

"I am." Harry nodded.

"I hope you will be more reasonable," he said. "I do not wish to hurt any of you. I simply want you to listen to my proposition."

"What do you have to offer that could possibly help us?" asked the werewolf.

"A cure for lycanthropy," Harry said simply. The resulting silence was eerily overwhelming.

"Impossible," claimed the new Alpha.

"Improbable maybe, but not impossible. I have developed a one time potion that will remove the curse from your blood and contain it. May I show you how it works?" The new Alpha eyed him curiously clearly wondering how he would do that, but after several moments he nodded. Harry pushed his memories of curing Remus into the mind of the werewolf and then gave him a few moments to consider what he had seen before he spoke.

"I am willing to offer any member of your pack the potion for free and have purchased all of the houses that border this woods. They are yours to live in, raise your families and be in peace away from wizarding society unless you choose to integrate.

"But we will not be able to get jobs, how will we be able to survive?" asked one of the werewolves from the trees.

"I have a majority in the Wizengamot and plan to have the law changed at the next session. As long as someone previously suffering from lycanthropy has taken the potion they will no longer be classified as a werewolf and therefore be entitled to all rights afforded any wizard. The head of Saint Mungo's has already agreed to provide documentation for any wishing to prove the curse is gone." As Harry finished the murmuring in the forest grew. Many were skeptical but the hopefulness could not be missed and it didn't take long for it to spread among the pack.

"What are your demands. Nothing is ever free with wizards," said the Alpha.

"That is true, and I admit I do have a request should you accept my help," replied Harry.

"Which is?"

"You vow to not support Voldemort's movement in any way. If he or any of his followers come to you, you call for me so I can deal with them and you never again harm another wizard."

"How do we know you can be trusted?"

"You don't I suppose. You can never know these things for sure, but the next full moon is in two days time. I am willing to give the potion to five volunteers of your pack's choosing so you can see for yourself that it works and know I am not bluffing. If after that you accept my deal. I will give it to any that want it and show you to your new homes. You will have to have faith that I can get the laws changed as that will take more time. It is another three weeks until the next session."

"What if we don't want it," snarled a ragged looking man about Remus's age.

"Then you walk away, but I want you now that if I find you at Voldemort's side I will not show mercy."

"Come back tomorrow, we will have made our decision by then and if we accept your offer you may take the volunteers," decided the Alpha.

"Very well," said Harry with a nod as he led his companions out of the woods.

The next morning Harry returned with only Bellatrix at his side.

"What is your decision Alpha," said Harry in the way of greeting.

"We were not able to reach a consensus. Those that are here have agreed to accept your offer, the others have left the pack," the werewolf replied. Harry had been expecting that, but was pleased to see only a dozen or so missing.

"I know it may feel like you are taking a very big risk, but I believe that you will be very happy with your decision. Who are your volunteers?" asked Harry. Five werewolves stepped forward. "Very well, I will return them after the full moon and have enough potion with me for everyone else. We can work out housing arrangements at that time. Is it alright if I bring the head of St. Mungo's with me?"

After a nod from the Alpha Harry called for Winky and Dobby and between the four of them the five volunteers were transported to Grimmauld Place.

As his feet touched the floor of the lounge, Harry stumbled backwards, the searing pain in his forehead catching him off guard. He caught an image of Voldemort leaving his hide out and then a second later he saw him arrive on a beach he had seen once before. 'The locket'

"Dobby. Attend to our guests please, make them comfortable until tomorrow night when we will do the ritual," said Harry as winced at the lingering pain.

"Bella, get Amelia please. It is urgent." Bellatrix looked him over in concern before nodding het consent and rushing to the floor. Moments later Amelia was there, her face showing a matching look of concern to Bellatrix.

"What is it Harry? What is wrong?"

'He's moving the locket. We need to go now. It is our only chance.'

''Okay, let's get a team together and...'

'No, we don't have time for that. Just you and me, we need to go.'

'Alright,' Harry could tell Amelia was hesitant but he didn't have time to worry about that. He quickly took her hand and apparated away, not even realizing the significance of the images he had seen and the still searing pain in his inflamed scar.