Chapter 59
"What, me?"

Beast's POV

I have been hunting and attacking wolves for the first ten minutes my anger raged through me and after that stormed back to my castle, using the hard way with the many gargoyles and the high wall around the grounds to calm down a little further. Finally the soothing voice of my beloved has me completely calm once again.
Still, I wait outside the room on the balcony until I see them stop, but then later discover that Marge is still being read about after my return and so I sit close to my love, Belle sitting on my lap when she feels me getting angry again and feel proud and gleeful as I hear how Harry takes revenge on everything that horrid woman did.
Then, at the end of the chapter, Harry returns and my heart sinks as I hear him confessing to the need of another Potion next book. Knowing I won't be there then as Sora had already explained me that they would be traveling to two worlds for each book, I really feel for the poor boy I have so easily grown close to, like Sora.

I look around the hall, none of the students or other guests looking scared or shocked as they look back at me and I realize that my anger at their fellow student's treatment has made them accept me as one of their own. Smiling at them in gratitude as our gazes meet, I walk over to Harry and softly lie one of my paws on his shoulder as I say:
"You will always be welcome in this castle." This shocks the boy, but he smiles and says: "I will be sure to learn how Sora and the others make those portals." I nod, smiling at his sneaky way of accepting my invitation and then a pudgy man with green bowler hat stands up and asks: "Mr. Potter, mind if I read next?"

Fudge's POV

The idea that I talked to the boy about returning to those – words escape me as I think about them – makes my stomach turn in disgust and makes me wish we had done more than just put a guard, Auror and Unspeakable near their house – even if everything in that world is now frozen in time. I shake my head and hear Harry say:
"Of course, Minister, be my guest." This makes the candlestick share a look and a smile with Belle who hides a laugh behind her hand and I ask: "Am I missing something?" And Lumiere says: "This castle is very musical, Minister. We like a good song and welcomed Belle to our castle with one called Be Our Guest."
Now Harry has to hold back his own laugh and then he turns somber again as he looks to the West Wing. Knowing that the boy must be missing his parents, even if he had strangely enough gone back to a first-name-base with them sometime during our stay at Destiny Islands, I quickly start reading the book to distract the boy.

The Knight … through him trying to ignore how his ass was smarting from how he plopped down on it, listening to … worse fix.

This makes a lot of those around the boy look at him strangely, but the boy says: "I didn't mean in the sense of danger. I proved that a few chapters ago. Just let the Minister read on, it will be made clear right soon." And those that had looked at him strangely seemed comforted by his words before they turn back to me.

He was … to go. He couldn't go to the Weasleys as they were in Egypt, couldn't go to Hermione, she was in France, couldn't go to Mrs. Figg, she would just send him right back to those monsters and couldn't go back as that just made him shudder in fear. And the … from Hogwarts.

"Mr. Potter, I can assure you that we always question our underage witches and wizards when they break the Stature of Secrecy too many times or – as in your case – used magic against Muggles. If we had known of your situation, we would have cleaned your entire record." Amelia comforts the young boy and Harry smiles as I read.

He had … he sat.

"We must have arrived when you started thinking this and I can assure you, we had already sent at least four men every which way from where they could go starting at that address. It was only Cornelius telling us he had solved things with you that made us clear out." Kingsley says and Amelia goes on:
"The four men each was courtesy of Kingsley, which – now that I know he knew your dad – I can finally understand." The boy laughs as Kingsley shrugs and says: "Give me one reason I should have explained it to you back then, not work-related, that is." Amelia closes her mouth and mock-glares at him as I read on.

Harry shivered … wizarding world?

"That would never happen. Too dangerous, really." Amelia says and she goes on: "Outlawing someone from the magical world? The Ministry tried that once in the fourteen hundreds and that is, actually, how Jeane D'Arc was born to be. After that, no way are we ever going to exclude another witch or wizard again."
I couldn't agree more with the woman and then Belle asks: "Jeane D'Arc is a real person in your world?" I nod and say: "And has been dead for over 500 years." Making the excitement I had seen shining in her eyes diminish and I send her a regretful look, expressing how much it hurts to break her heart before I read on.

He thought … contacting them. He had already learned from his school books that Wild Owls were never to be used as they are not raised with the same navigation instincts as Bred owls that leads Bred Owls from one person to another instead of from one forest to the next.

"Well thought out, lad. You're really keeping your head together, even when you're fearing your own problems. I hate saying it, but that old codger taught you well. No offence meant." Alastor says with his hand raised to Aberforth Dumbledore and the owner of the Hogs Head nods at him in acceptance before I read on.

He didn't have any Muggle money, either, he had exchanged that for Galleons last year as he wanted to give himself a little more evidence that he belonged in the Magical World. There was … his trunk, money he hadn't spent asking elder years to buy things he needed while they were in Hogsmeade, but the … in London.

"I really wish I had told you that I knew of your heritage and everything, Harry. I could have easily helped, I could have even convinced the Minister, perhaps, to let you stay with me during the rest of summer." The old lady says, speaking again for the first time in a long while as she barely spoke during any of the readings.
Harry smiles at her and says: "Thanks for that, Mrs. Figg, but the idea of being that close to Dursley or of Dudley finding me with you just scared me right out of thinking to head your way." The woman nods and says: "I understand." Sending a ferocious glare at the book, obviously hating this fact and I couldn't agree more as I read on.

He'd never … his hand.

"And this is where it's handy that Sirius was in the neighborhood." Harry smiles lightly and I look shocked as none of the Aurors had reported a sighting of him and then Harry explains it and says: "Not that I knew it was him, back then, so I don't think any of your Aurors could have recognized him either, I assure you." I nod and read on.

If he … couldn't hurt.

"Okay, just so everyone knows, that was my brain talking, not my instinct." Harry says, his hands raised and Viktor asks: "What did your instincts tell you?" And Harry smiles as he leans back against the same pillar as before and says: "To turn around." This confuses everyone around and I quickly start reading again.

He had … to London?

"Good plan, if you had been seventeen." Kingsley says and I see Harry shrug as he says: "My instincts and brains never really agree when I'm alone in situations like that. That's why I need Ron and Hermione, they keep me focused and help me listen to my instincts as they often match with what those two already know."
The two friends in question smile at their friend and Fleur says: "You guys really fit each other amazingly. But nothing like you and Viktor, of course." And the Bulgarian Seeker pulls his fellow player and beloved closer as he huskily says: "Of course." Before softly kissing Harry on the cheek as I continue with the chapter.

Then he … for ever – especially not with his ass still smarting – or he'd … square houses.

"And that's where Black showed up? He was near you? We could have caught him if we found you?" Kingsley asks, but Harry shakes his head, his hands now behind his head as he lounges on the soft sleeping bag he still has lying there and says: "As I said, none of you would have recognized him." And I quickly read on.

He bent … gleaming eyes.

"What the hell? Black's eyes were sunken and hallow, they weren't wide and gleaming." I mumble and then Kingsley says: "That proves it, we would have thought the guy a Muggle Burglar or something. We wouldn't have even given him the time of day compared to finding you." And Harry smiles as he says:
"It was Siri, just not as a Burglar or anything like that. Just wait for the Knight Bus to appear, it will let me explain." I wonder what the boy could be on about and then McGonagall says: "Ooooooh, very clever, Mr. Potter. And well hinted too." Harry shrugs and I look at the woman, but she keeps her mouth shut and I read on.

Harry stepped … been lying.

"You were almost crushed? Why didn't you tell us?" Hermione asks and Harry says: "Just wait, the description of the Knight Bus made me know I was in no danger. I realized it during the ride itself." The girl nods and Harry smiles at her, before Viktor lies himself between the pillar and his partner and I read on with a smile at the two.

They belonged … this eve-"

"Wow, took him long enough." Draco Malfoy says and Minerva says: "That is, I'm afraid, the fate of all Knight Bus Conductors. They get hit in the head a lot during the practice they get when they study for the job and get trouble focusing on more things than one at a time after a certain amount of time." Everyone winces and I read on.

The conductor … few pimples.

"How did Stan get to work on the Knight Bus anyway, professor?" Harry asks and Pomona answers: "When Students reach only Acceptable on all their O.W.L.s, their Head of House takes them aside to discuss the jobs best possible for them. Stan was, apparently, a very peculiar one as he underachieved on purpose to get that job."
I look shocked and she says: "He was a Hufflepuff and believed the Knight Bus the ultimate form of loyalty to Wizards kind as it drove stranded witches and wizards around England. So, even though he could have easily passed his Potions, DADA and Transfigurations, he underachieved to get Acceptables only on purpose."
Harry looks mildly interested and I know that he is taking whatever info and relief he can from not having to read about Marge anymore and Pomona says: "I took him aside in his Sixth, your first, Harry, and when he told me he did it on purpose, I got him an apprentice job there. His brain capacity went down from there, but he lived his dream."

Harry shrugs and says: "Nothing wrong with that. Except the brain capacity, that is." And many students, especially Ravenclaws, nod in earnest as Hermione asks: "You're not going to do the same, are you?" But Harry looks down and says: "I've been kind of preparing on making my O.W.L.s be a similar experience as to March 1992."
This makes Filius cringe and Hermione asks: "So you did want to do your best?" Harry shrugs and says: "Nothing wrong with doing the best you have for the first step to a real future, right?" The girl nods and then Viktor whispers: "A future I will be supporting all the way." Making Harry blush and smile at him as I read on.

"What were … was bleeding. Still, he tried feverishly to ignore the strongest bout of pain as the memories of last night were still too strong on the forefront of his mind.

This makes me cringe and Snape says: "Harry, at the next break, I would like to see if there are any after-effects left of these two misdeeds to your pride your uncle caused you." Harry whitens at the start of the sentence, but nods in gratitude at the end of it and says: "Just don't remind me why when we do it, okay Professor?"
The man nods and says: "Severus." Harry tilts his head and Pomona says: "The four of us agreed that we would ask Sirius and Remus if we could become your Godparents once their Heat is over. They're your parents, but you deserve to be welcome at your first home whenever you want." The boy smiles at her and I read on.

He suddenly … but massive..."

This shocks us all and then Kingsley says: "Harry's right, we really would not have recognized him. Other than as a Grimm, that is." And Amelia goes on: "That would not have been good." And Kingsley ends: "Especially if Ellen Wrestleheart had found them, you know how much she loves Divinations and all that."
The woman nods and one of Harry's female year mates, a tanned girl named Parvati asks: "What's wrong with that?" And Harry says: "Nothing, other than that Divinations isn't everyone's favorite and that Mss. Wrestleheart would have probably started screaming and abandoned the mission if she saw him." Parvati nods and I read on.

He looked … his head.

"Why my name?" Neville asks and Harry says: "Stan's accent made me believe he knew Seamus, who of course knew Dean and the Weasleys were in Egypt. I could have pretended to be a First year or something, but didn't know any of their names. And you always help me, even if you don't know it." Neville laughs and I read on.

"So – so … Harry quickly, not wanting to admit that this was his first time as he suspected that Neville knew all about this, being raised by his gran and all. "Listen, how … to London?"

"Good thinking. Gran often takes the Knight Bus, so Stan would know that I know just how to use it from seeing her do it." Neville says and Harry asks: "Didn't she ever let you do it?" Neville shakes his head and says: "Until I went to Hogwarts, my life pretty much revolved around my family. I was the only Heir, so I had to be kept safe."
"But if you were constantly surrounded by all those people, constantly expecting all those things of you and expecting you to be like your parents, how on earth did you even get the chance to grow social skills or the chance to really be like them?" Harry asks and he raises a point that shocks me – and Neville – to the core.

Harry then turns to Minerva and asks: "Are you thinking what I am?" And the woman nods, while I wonder what the two came up with thanks to Mr. Potter's conclusion and Minerva answers for me as she says: "I will definitely have word with the Longbottom House. Augusta will not be pleased when I tell her the truth of her treatment."
I tilt my head and Harry says: "Being treated only by those that expect you to be the mirror image of parents you never knew? What kind of effect would that have on you, Minister?" And I look shocked as I realize that all we have read about Mr. Longbottom's behavior is due to the heavy pressure put on him by his family.
Looking at the boy, I think: "We really need a strong and firm line of action that needs to be followed when it comes to proper care for a child and what can and cannot be seen as proper care and what can be seen as abuse. Never thought there were this many forms of it, though." And while those around me nod in agreement, do I read on.

"Eleven Sickles … the bus.
Harry really hoped the owl cage wouldn't give him away and then Stan asks: "Picking up your gran's Owl, are you Neville?" And Harry quickly agreed, making a mental note of reminding Neville when he got the chance. He then distracted himself by looking around the bus.

"Am I glad you reminded me. I got to pick it up just before Gran took me shopping for my books and all. She had actually forgotten it herself as well. One of the first times I really saw her be proud of me." Neville says, smiling at Harry before blushing as he must feel as if he told too much of his home life already.
Then Sora says: "Then I would love to see how she'd react when you come back from our training. You and Harry – and if possible many more – will be Keyblade Wielders for sure before the books are all read." Harry and Neville smile at the ever optimistic boy, but I can easily hear his determination as he speaks and read on.

There were … Longbottom, Ern."

"And that would be the one family that has owned the Knight Bus since it was first created in 1865, to make up for dumb ideas like Broomsticks with sidecars attached to them." Draco Malfoy says and Daphne Greengrass asks: "How do you know this?" And he answers: "Father taught me all about families and their most prominent jobs."
The girl nods and Harry asks: "So, was my father being an author and politician different from other Potters?" But Lucius shakes his head and says: "Every one of five Potters does something like that and every one of ten Potters becomes an author." Harry looks intrigued and happy, giving a small nod to my old friend before I read on.

Ernie Prang … steering wheel.

"None of that family ever has. They always fail several Muggle Driver License tests, but because the vehicle works on their magic, or what they have left of it, it doesn't fully matter as there have been more and more security spells added to the bus since the start of 1900." Lucius explains and Harry asks:
"Wizards take Muggle Driver License tests?" And Arthur answers: "While it's not uncommon for us witches and wizards to have a car, do we still need to take such a test as Muggles are the inventors of cars and thus know more about them. We just cast a special disillusionment spell to look 16 to Muggles and take the test."
But then Hermione says: "But you have to be 18 to get a car." Everyone around me looks at her shocked and she says: "It's 16 for a motorcycle and 18 for a car. It's been like that for years." We all look quite uncomfortable at hearing this and Draco says: "Thank Muggles for not asking too many questions." And I read on, agreeing.

The Knight … ceiling yet.

"That was more than half an hour after the incident, right?" Kingsley asks and Harry nods as the man says: "By then Minister Fudge had already left for the Leaky Cauldron and assured us that was the only place – other than Hogwarts – that you could be heading to, even if none of us knew how you'd be able to get there."
Harry snickers at this and asks: "Didn't expect the Knight Bus, did you?" Kingsley shakes his head, but then a loud, amazing roar rings through the castle and everyone looks shocked as Harry turns beat red and says: "I think Siri and Remus are having a little bit too much fun." And younger years also turn red as everyone nods.
Kingsley then stands up and says: "I'll go cast some Silencing and Privacy Spells on them." To which Snape stands up and hands him a small wooden carrier filled with some very strange looking potions and he says: "Make sure you get this into their room. By the sound of it, they need more than I last gave them." The man nods and I read on.

Stan had … Harry's face who wondered just what Neville's Gran said about him to make Stan look like that, removed the front page and handed it to Harry.

"Guess living his dream gave him a bit of an ego." Pomona says and I suddenly see that Beast is still looking at the doors in confusion. Then Hagrid walks over and whispers: "I'll explain later. Not really something you tell 13 year olds or younger." The creature nods and focuses his attention back on Belle as I read on.

"You oughta … and read:

"Just so you know." Harry say, looking straight at Beast and he and Belle look back as Harry says: "All the crimes and other stuff you will hear about Sirius this book is wrong. It's explained at the end of the book, but it's all misconception and not true. I would not have accepted him adopting me if it had been, okay?"
The two nod and Belle asks: "That bad?" And Harry answers: "Just wait for the Christmas chapter. Speaking of which, Minister, I apologize, but with a father like James Potter and with friends like Fred and George, what else could you expect of me." I whiten as he starts the explanation and nod faintly before hurriedly reading on.

BLACK STILL … seemed alive. The eyes actually started to shine and smile as Harry looked at the picture as if it was aware Harry was looking at it. This confused Harry, who had never … to Stan even if it was with slight reluctance, "with one … at Harry, who felt as if he was missing something.
"Black woz a … without thinking.

This makes most of the room hit themselves on the head and Neville asks: "So even then you felt as if something was wrong about him being sentenced and judged for those crimes, huh?" Harry shrugs and says: "It just didn't sound like something Sirius would do. Attacking people in broad daylight just didn't sound like his way of work."
The boy nods and says: "That is true, a little strange that someone who was considered working for Voldemort would attack people in the middle of the day when Death Eaters usually attack after dark, like at the World Cup." Harry shrugs and says: "Exactly." While I feel stupid for not realizing this myself and read on.

Even Stan's … his chest.

"I just don't get it." Harry suddenly says and when we all look at him he says: "Sorry, but I just don't get why people are still scared after knowing for twelve years that he was gone. They believed him dead, after all." I sigh as now a lot of the younger students start muttering together, obviously just as curious and I say:
"Mr. Potter, it happened in the year your parents graduated that Voldemort reached his peak and showed us the unity between him and his followers, so to say." Harry looks confused and I say: "He had tabooed his name, Mr. Potter, so that anyone saying it, would instantly have his wards destroyed and would be found by Death Eaters."
Harry looks shocked and Minerva says: "And that was a fear-regime that he used for three full years, so if you combine the mystery of how he was defeated with the rumor that Sirius was his right-hand man and the fear-regime of those years." And Harry ends: "You get people fearing that regime all over again." I nod, smile at him and read on.

"Very close … down again but also straightened his cloths as to make it look like a nervous tic to Stan- "all You-Know-'Oo's … taken over.

"And of course rumors spread left and right when someone as strong and loyal as Sirius is discovered as the betrayer of the hero and the murderer of thirteen people. Can't people just stick to the facts and investigate that which they don't know?" Harry asks, saying the words the hero with great sarcasm as Hermione answers:
"Not with people like Skeeter buzzing around." Harry hits himself on the head and says: "And as long as that there is minimum communication between those at the top and those still working at a lower job, people will always have reasons to assume and never have the assurance of understanding one another and their points of view."
Everyone looks shocked at the boy for his amazing words and Hermione says: "And there he goes again. Speeches are so your specialty, Harry. You could really take over where your dad left off, you know?" Harry looks contemplative of this and I share a quick, hopeful glance with my Ministerial colleagues before reading on.

"Anyway, they … the way.

"Okay, there the truth is bent too much to a lie. Black cornered Pettigrew and then, when the special forces of the Ministry came, Black was alone, the Muggles were blown to their deaths and Pettigrew was nothing to be found, but a finger." I say angrily, but then realize that I scared some of the younger years and Belle asks:
"And you're sure this is wrong?" To which Harry says: "Let's just say that no explosion or destruction spell can leave less than fourteen pieces of anything, so Pettigrew only leaving a finger behind –." Now everyone calms down and when I want to read on, do I suddenly see Belle winking at Harry who smiles back at her.

'Orrible, eh … an' laughed.

"Why would he laugh if he was in the middle of such a battlefield?" Fleur asks and Harry says: "Sirius had tried to keep me when Hagrid brought me to the Dursleys. Apparently the two fought before Sirius caved in and went for Pettigrew. When that failed, he must have felt that everything in his life had been a failure."
The girl nods and says: "A nervous breakdown. I've seen one happen to my aunt's daughter when she married her mate. She cried, but I did hear that laughing too is a sign of such a breakdown." And Harry nods, while I wonder how the Ministry couldn't have detected this fact all those years ago and read on with guilt in my gut.

An' when … he did..."

"Would sure like to know how those two will talk when they hear Siri has been innocent all along." Harry grumbles, now moodily leaning against Viktor and the Bulgarian kisses his cheek as he asks: "Why don't we go and find out once time starts running again?" Harry smirks and I fear for those two as I read on.

"They 'ad … the collywobbles."

Now Harry turns slightly white and mumbles: "Don't blame him." To which Kairi asks: "You don't come in contact with those monsters, do you?" And to my shock, Harry nods and says: "Several times, even. A total of three times, if I remember correctly. Not that I want to." And him shuddering is enough reason for me to read on.

Stan put … in Azkaban?

"Not even close." I say with finality and Harry suddenly asks: "What exactly do you do with witches and wizards that break the Stature of Secrecy law too many times?" This makes me look at my colleagues and we all look worried – all wondering if we can reveal such secret information to three schools and guests.
Then Percy says: "The last one who did, got to work for the Department of Mysteries. Because no one knows what they do, they can be in the Magical World – without really being part of it. It helps them learn how to keep things a secret." This makes Harry look happily shocked and I smile, glad that only a bit of info has been told as I read on.

Harry didn't … Harry knew.
Still, looking at the picture of Sirius Black made Harry feel as if there was something he ought to have remembered and without Stan seeing it, did Harry quickly snatch the lower half with the picture on it from the paper, hiding it in his jeans pocket for later.

"I actually forgot about that for a while." Harry says and Hermione asks: "When did you remember?" And Harry looks down with his hand over his chin as he says: "I think it was the day after Halloween. And then a second time after the Christmas Hogsmeade trip, if I remember correctly." The girl looks intrigued and I read on.

The Knight … to Aberdeen and Stan offered him a towel he wetted with a spell called Aquamentie – one Harry mentally locked away in the archives of information he got from Hogwarts last year.

"Then I look forward to your Sixth year, Mr. Potter. That's when we will start practicing the spell." Filius says, while I still can't believe what the wizard did in Harry's first year and then Harry gets back at him and says: "I can already use the spell, Professor. I use it to defuse the flames I need for my self-made potions."
"Mate, if you do that in your bed, how the hell do you keep your bad dry?" Ron asks and Harry laughingly retorts: "How much did you think I had to throw up that year?" Ron looks confused and then Dean says: "So that's what you used that bucket for. I wondered why there was never any – never mind." He ends and I quickly read on.

One by … to go and Harry wondered how much more awful the bus felt when it twisted and turned upstairs.
Another thing he wondered about was a strange gut feeling that came up from deep within him whenever they passed some parts of the country, but because the Bus moved so fast, did he never get enough time to really analyze the feeling he got.

This really worries me and I ask: "Mr. Potter, in what parts of the country did you have this feeling?" And the boy hums before he says: "Mostly when we were in the South-west, though we passed the point between the West and the Northwest twice and I felt it there as well." He then seems to think harder and mumbles:
"Also, once just before we reached London, which we did from the North." And I share a look with all those who know anything about the Potters and the boy looks up as he asks: "Do you know why I had that feeling?" And we all nod, our concerned looks making the others worry before Harry asks: "Why? And what's wrong?"

To which I sigh and ask: "Let me ask one question first? Was the gut feeling good or bad?" And the boy seems to easily remember how it feels now as he says: "Bad. It was even painful. The last time Stan even assured me we were almost at the Leaky and that I could head for the Apothecary to get a Pain-Relief Potion."
And this confirms the concerns the others and I had as I sigh and say: "To answer your previous questions, Mr. Potter. The reason you had those painful feelings in your gut – is because something is wrong with the Manors your family owns that are spread across the country – at exactly the locations you mentioned."
This shocks the boy and he asks: "Wait, my family owns – FOUR different Manors?" And we all nod, the boy looking ready to faint from shock before I hear Draco ask his father: "Should we let him know that those are only his native Manors?" And the Potter Heir in question sags against his mate in shock as I shrug and read on.

Finally, Harry … Cross Road, yet as they rode into London, did the feeling return yet again, making Harry wince and nod to accept the suggestion of Stan to visit the Apothecary later. Harry sat up, feeling amazed at how soft and bouncy the bed was – a real fall-breaker – and watched … it opened, get the Pain-Relief Potion Stan suggested, then set off – where, he didn't know.

"Harry, I'm sorry to say, but I feel ever so relieved that you never went anywhere but Diagon Alley and Hogwarts. It really ensured us the chance to set things straight." I tell the boy I have come to deeply respect and the boy says: "And right back at you, Minister." Making me smile at the young boy before I continue the story.

Ern slammed … his shoulder.

"Maybe not the best approach, Cornelius." Amelia tells me and Moody says: "Yeah, the way Potter describes it, you could just as well have been a follower of that Riddle bastard." I sigh and say: "I just wanted to ensure that I wouldn't miss Potter when he arrived, so I waited in the doorway. I never wanted to scare him."
To this Harry smiles and says: "Don't worry about it, Minister. My mind was just on overdrive, even Madam Pomfrey would have scared the hell out of me had she been there. No offence, Madam Pomfrey." The School nurse nods, while some younger years have trouble holding back laughter and I read on, feeling relieved.

At the … shouted gleefully.

"Tell that to someone who believes it, will you?" Ron spats and Harry says: "Ron, relax. You know things will work out." To this Ron asks: "Is that why you're so calm?" Harry shrugs and says: "I have nothing to worry about until the train ride is being read about. Why worry?" To this Ron looks confused and Viktor says:
"We of Bulgaria learn how to help those we consider or who consider our Soul Mates. And I learned how to do that with Harry early on." This makes Ron laugh and he says: "Now that sounds more like something I can believe. Sorry buddy, but I only see you this relaxed when you're on a broom." Harry shrugs and I read on.

"Ern! Ern … the pub. Part of him was glad to be away from Stan, he was obviously quite the tattletale, the other part wished he had been taken away from the man by someone other than the Minister for Magic himself.

"With how he was feeling, I can't blame him." Bill says and then McLaggen says: "I still don't understand why he wasn't punished." And Hermione spats: "Maybe because of the article subject he just read about?" To this the boy snorts disbelievingly and I wonder if he'll end up like Zacharias Smith as he says:
"We all know Black's innocent." And Ronald spats: "Did you know that then?" The boy holds silent and one of the twins says: "Remember what year we're reading about." And the other says: "Before you open that big trap of yours." And Arthur holds up a hand to Minerva as the Beast gives the twins a rough smile and I read on.

A stooping … of Harry.

"I'm sorry, Harry, I was under the assumption you would dash for it like you did with your aunt's." I explain the boy and Harry says: "I understand, but you have to remember how I escape situations like this, Minister. Sneaky and unexpectedly." This makes many of those around him laugh and I shake my head at him before reading on.

There was … Stan's shoulder. Harry tried not to turn his eyes skyward, but part of him felt relieved; if Stan was dumb enough to keep calling him Neville after finding out his real identity, he might just keep doing that later too. It might actually work in his favor.

"Cunning and Ambitious, like a true snake." Lucius says and Draco moans: "Why, why did I ruin the chance of having the ultimate snake in Slytherin?" And those of his house glare at him, until they suddenly hear someone laughing loudly. They turn around and see Harry holding his stomach while laughing exuberantly.
"Thank you, thank you." Draco says and Harry laughs: "Finally using your dramatics for laughter, are you? About time." And he laughs on, while the Slytherins look dumbstruck at the fact that Draco had been acting. Then Moody whispers in my ear: "Junior winked at Potter when Malfoy complimented him." I snicker silently and read on.

"And a … called Stan and Harry had to shake his head, trying to hide his relieved smile with his hair. His secret trip on the Knight Bus was safe from public ears.
Fudge marched … the room.

"How did he do that?" Belle asks and Amelia answers: "Some places, like the Leaky Cauldron, have a special ritual attached to them that allows for the owner's core to connect to whatever room he walks in. It's a special form of Wandless, Non-verbal magic, specifically designed for places like that." Belle nods and I read on.

"Sit down … the fire. He heard the soft crunch of the newspaper and tried to hide it with a cough.

"I didn't even hear that." I mumble and Madam Pomfrey tuts as she says: "Mr. Potter's eyesight might have been restored to that of a normal, in a normal room raised young man, his hearing is obviously still very sensitive and on high-alert. Not surprising seeing all that old coot put him through." I fully agree and read on.

Fudge took … opposite Harry.

"No offence to you, Minister, but what is it with you and people pulling up their pants around you? Your cousin in the second book and now the Minister? Who's next, Hagrid?" Harry shudders and says: "Ron, my cousin was bad enough. Don't give me any nightmares, would you?" The boy turns green himself and I read on.

"I am … know that.

"He knows no-ow." The twins chorus in song and Harry sends them a raised eyebrow look, shutting them up instantly. This makes Minerva and Arthur look shocked and Arthur says: "Not even that woman could do that." This makes Ron look up and he says: "That woman, I forgot about her." He then looks at Harry and asks:
"Next chapter, you think?" But Harry shakes his head and says: "If I have to go by how these chapters go, I'd say the one after that. It's part of the departure day, after all. Next chapter will probably be about my stay at Diagon Alley." Ron nods and I wonder what the two of them could have on Molly No-Name as I read on.

Tom the … what matters."

"Not what I would call your smoothest talk, Cornelius." Amelia says and I answer: "It wasn't, but that's because I was both in shock with the actual magic performed and because Mr. Potter hadn't looked a bit like how Albus had portrayed him. It was – therefore – at this point that I started distrusting him."
Amelia nods and Harry says: "I don't blame you, Minister. And I have to admit, had I not been worried about my punishment, your presence there and my form, I might have told you about my homelife." To which I ask: "You might have?" Harry shrugs and says: "Hagrid." Making me hit myself on the head before I read on.

Fudge buttered … harm done."

"I wish I had erased those Muggles memories as well, but Albus told me they were in perfect awareness of the Magical world and I just assumed they were like all other magic aware Muggles who have witches and wizards for a charge. Should have suspected something when I saw what Mr. Potter really looked like."
I grumble angrily at myself and then Harry asks: "Not to be rude, Minister, but what did you think I looked like?" And I say: "Albus described you as a boy with the looks of your father at the peak of his time, with the kindness and intelligence of your mother and with the bravery of a true Gryffindor." And Harry grumbles:
"In other words a real hero." And I sigh as I nod, feeling even worse as I say: "And that is the same thing he told everyone outside Hogwarts, who asked how you looked and how you were." To which Harry retorts: "And there goes my good mood." Before Viktor suddenly pushes him on his front and starts rubbing his back.
Harry moans in relief and Hermione quickly changes the sleeping bag into one of the blankets we had on Destiny Island. The two beloved sit down on the blanket and Viktor does the same as before, Harry lying his head on his crossed arms and Hermione smiling at them as she motions me to continue. I smile and do as requested.

Fudge smiled … it again. Part of him wanted to talk about why he had used the magic, but he didn't think it would matter. Part of him wanted to talk about the way his gut felt during the journey, but he didn't think Fudge would understand, considering the way he had arrived. Part of him wanted to confide in the man why he had run away, but even Hagrid hadn't done anything after hearing of the lies, so Harry didn't think it would change a thing.

"I really hate how his past experiences and his distrust of adults in general made him stay away from the help he could have been offered." Pomona mumbles and Snape growls: "Exactly the way that old coot wanted him to be." And I think: "Nothing Amelia does will be punishment enough. Damnit." And I read on, while growling.

"Ah, you're … Easter holidays."

"Petunia to blow off steam and Vernon to –." But Harry shudders and then suddenly seems to hold something back from coming up from his stomach. Instantly Viktor summons a bucket and Harry lies his head over it as he starts puking, making my eyes widen as I wonder what on earth that man could have done to poor Harry.
Then Belle looks down and says: "Lumiere, go get Mrs. Potts, hurry." The candlestick nods and hops out of the hall as Harry pukes, Snape rushing over with a Stomach soothing potion in his hand and Beast already there to rub his hand over Harry's back. When the boy stops, Snape hands him the potion and Beast asks:
"Offer him something now?" And Snape answers: "This is a stomach relief potion. It helps calm the stomach down." The Beast nods and then several sounds of hopping furniture are heard as Lumiere comes hopping in together with a white teapot and a small white cup, both with a face and Lumiere leading the two to Harry.

The teapot then asks: "Having a stomach ache, dear? Don't worry, my tea puts a clear stop to all that rumbling gas and heartburn." And she pours some tea into the cup, who's nose seems to be the ear of the cup. Harry smiles at the teapot and carefully drinks the tea down, moaning softly at the end as he says: "It's delicious."
"Thank you, dear. That's very kind. Now Chip, why don't you entertain our sick guest?" And to my shock the cup breaths in before causing the last remnants of the tea to bubble and boil. Harry laughs and says: "Wow, that's a really cool trick.""I know, right?" The cup asks and Harry puts it back down next to the pot.
Then suddenly Snape asks: "Potter, is this – what I think it is?" And when Harry turns to look at the man he whitens as he sees the man leaning over the bucket. To this the teapot hops forward, an angry look on her face and she says: "Don't upset the poor boy, you. We don't want him to throw up again, do we?"
The man nods and takes the bucket over to the teachers, Amelia standing up to join him after he glances at her and I hear Ron whisper: "She reminds me of her, but then the better version." And Harry nods and says: "Protective, but not demeaning or demanding. Had she been human, she would have made a fine mother."

To this Ron nods back, but then I see the Beast looking down and Sora says: "All these furniture, Harry? They once were human." Harry looks shocked and asks: "They were?" Sora nods and says: "A spell has been cast over this place. Unless Beast can learn to love someone and have that person love him back the way he is."
And Lumiere ends: "The curse will never be broken. And it has to happen, before the last petal of the rose falls." To this Pomona asks: "Rose? What Rose?" And Beast answers: "When the curse was cast, the one who cast it put a time limit on the rose that was linked to the curse. It started wilting when I was 21, but stopped a few months ago."
This makes Pomona look thoughtful and then she asks: "Would it be okay if I myself and two of my finest students go take a look at that rose, under your supervision, that is?" Beast looks contemplative at this and Belle asks: "You think you can break the spell?" To this all four of them, Beast, Lumiere, Mrs. Pott and Chip, look at her and she says:

"Herbology and plants are my specialty, I even give classes about all kinds of magical plants at Hogwarts. I might be able to find out what kind of rose and enchantment we're dealing with and then Professor Babbling might be able to use some runes to, at the very least, alter the spell. I can't be sure though, until I see it."
Belle nods and then Beast bows to the woman and says: "It would be an honor words cannot describe if you could break this curse. I have indeed found love, but when I did, the rose stopped wilting without changing me back. I would very much like to know why." Pomona nods and smiles at him before I read on.

Harry unstuck … deep down."

"Minister, you don't even sound sure of that yourself. Why did you try to convince Harry of it?" Ron asks and I answer: "I might have distrusted Albus, but I still believed him and he told me Harry had grown up to be who he is today. Because of what he told me, I believed it was just the terror Harry felt talking." The boy shrugs and I read on.

It didn't … him now, while hoping he could have enough time to have his ass healed before it happened.
"So all … my punishment?"

This makes the twins hit themselves on the head and Harry says: "Can you blame me? How would you have reacted if the Minister for Magic himself responded to you breaking the Stature of Secrecy like that?" This makes the twins nod grudgingly and the rest of the Weasleys laugh at their uncomfortable faces before I read on.

Fudge blinked … looking awkward.

"I really hadn't expected for Lily's wit and quick thinking to become such an issue and with my slight distrust in Dumbledore, did I believe that he had rallied Harry against me, against the Ministry. I really don't want to know what that distrust could have caused had You-Know-Who remained a renewed and reborn threat."
I mumble softly and suddenly Viktor says: "And that is exactly the problem. Harry doesn't have Lily's wit, or James' talent; he has his own wit and his own talent. Had he grown up with them, he could have copied their wit and talent and made it his own, but he didn't, so stop saying it's something he got from his parents all the time."
We all look at the boy in shock and Severus says: "I hate saying it, but Mr. Krum does have a point. We constantly see either a hero, James' son or Lily's in Mr. Potter and whether we use it for the good like Lupin or for the bad like myself, we still are doing wrong to a young child by not letting him discover who he is."

Everyone now looks down and Harry mutters: "Curse you, Dumbledore." Everyone looks at him as he has his arms crossed under his head and has his chin lying on his arms and the boy says: "Had I grown up magical, I would have, in my youth, given you reasons not to consider me a hero and you would have just treated me normally afterwards."
Everyone looks shocked and then as one the Gryffindors say: "Curse you, Dumbledore." To which all of the other Houses nod in agreement. I personally can't believe how such a small decision could have affected so many lives and wonder: "Did you plan this, Albus? Was this part of your plan?" And while wondering, do I read on.

"Circumstances chance … underage magic?

"That brain, even when terrified of being expelled it works brilliantly." Hermione says, shaking her head while Harry still has his eyes closed and a small smile grows on the boy's face as he tries to shrug while lying on his front and having Viktor rub his back. I shake my head, feeling glad that he is relaxing and read on.

Fudge came … pinstriped cloak.

"Just a question, Minister. How many times did Dumbledore tell you those lies before we met?" Harry asks me, his tone telling me that he seems to be fighting sleep and I sigh as I say: "At the start and end of your first and second, after your first match and after he had been reinstated as Headmaster." Harry rolls his eyes and I read on.

"Well, I'll … Harry asked, having felt the paper crunch in his pocket as he turned to look at the man.
Fudge's fingers … his cloak.

"I got to admit, not even James was that direct when he tried to get Lily. That is really all Harry right there." Filius says with a smile and Viktor asks: "So you'll try and see Harry from now on, instead of a cheater trying to live up to a reputation he doesn't know about?" And the man turns red and nods shyly as I read on.

"What's that … shuddered slightly and opened his mouth as if to say something, but then seemed to suddenly change his mind and said,
"So, I'll … looking uncomfortable and Harry suddenly realized that Filch would never believe that he was related to the Minister in anyway; it was a lost cause before Fudge even started apologizing.

"Yeah, that and I thought that you didn't look like the kid that liked attention, which I knew would be drawn to you if you were to come to Hogwarts with a permission slip signed by the Minister for Magic himself." Harry smiles at me gratefully and says: "Good point, there Minister. Even if it's not your primary reason." I chuckle and read on.

"Ah," he … for him, all the while Harry wondered why Fudge seemed so out of it and so uncomfortable with the whole situation of him not being where others could see him as that seemed to be the primary reason why he didn't sign his slip. Then his adrenaline finally calmed down and with sleepy eyes, Harry looked around.
Inside was … stroking Hedwig, the owl proving how much she had missed her friend by worriedly hopping up to his shoulder and working her beak on his hair.
The sky … his glasses, without taking out the stuff he needed for brewing the potion to help him with his painful butt, he lumped … fell asleep, Hedwig flying off to her cage to do the same.

"And that perfectly describes the entire last two chapters." Harry says with a half-raised hand and then Amelia says: "Mr. Krum, you might want to stop doing that. We do need Mr. Potter awake for the next few chapters after all." The Bulgarian sighs and sits down next to the boy, leaning on his right arm as Harry whines in disappointment.
Then Hagrid comes back and says: "Everything's a-okay. They just went a little rough on each other and forgot to close the door to the bedroom. I put a few of those gargoyles in front of a few of the doors, don't worry, I'll keep checking. I just don't want a Heat-controlled werewolf running around this place." And I can't help but agree.
Then Beast sighs and stands up as he says: "Please, follow me. I'll show you the rose we talked about." Pomona nods and then she says: "Mr. Longbottom, Mr. Potter, come with me." And Harry goes from relaxed to shocked as he raises himself up on his hands and looks at the Herbology Professor as he asks: "What, me?"


Yes, Harry, you.
So I added the bit about Harry's actual riches as I felt that should be addressed, what with how his lessons with Narcissa have become more and more frequent. Also, I am not entirely sure what the trouble with his manors will be, but it might be something Dumbledore either did or tried to do. His work, it will definitely be.
Also, I think the group will move to the next world BEFORE the chapter of either Christmas or the Firebolt. Though I might have Beast and Belle come along. And finally, we are only ONE more chapter away before we are entirely caught up with where the story was BEFORE it got taken off the site last time.
Crazy, right,

Venquine1990