FIRST: AS I POST THIS - A VERY SPECIAL GIRL I KNOW IS HAVING A BIRTHDAY- A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY SISSY- I MISS YOU.

2ND: You may or may not have noticed, I changed the story description from humor/romance, to adventure/romance. Mr. Beta suggested, and I was forced to agree, (he sat on me and made me sniff his socks- that has to be worse than water boarding.) I don't think that this is crazy enough to qualify as a crack fic. There will be humor in the on going chapters, but my plans for the Tasmanian devil to make an appearance in the 3rd task has gone out the window- at least for this tale.

3rd: Quickly catching up on what I have typed previously. At the present time I am averaging a chapter a week. So with work being the way it is - it may slow me down for a bit. On the other hand since I am being laid off in 80 days I will most likely go back to the weekly schedule.

Lastly: Please comment- Good, bad, indifferent. I am enjoying the adventure writing this and don't plan on stopping any time soon, but it will help if I know what you folks want to see.

Thank you- enjoy

B.


Dobby popped into the approved spot for house elves. Waiting for the first available goblin, he made a stool for him to stand on to look the goblin in the eye. "The great Harry Potter requires this to be deposited into his special account as well as 500,000 more gls. Here is a letter from Lord Longbottom wanting the transfer of matching golds."

"I know of no special accounts house elf." His tone was less than friendly.

"Tells me pleases Mr. Goblin sir. Do you know of every account without even checking records? Truly you must be near as great as the great Harry Potter to know so much." Dobby's tone wasn't as subservient as any other house elf's. His eyes shone with fervor of a disciple. When the goblin grew surly. The elf straightened up even further and his ears rotated to face the threat.

"I will deposit this in Potter's account. He will have to come in if he has special arrangements."

"Tell me Mr. Goblin. What is your name? He is a very busy wizard and doesn't need to waste his time with the likes of you."

There was a sharp intake of breath. House elves never, and even wizards were afraid to push the goblins too far. After all they held all of their gold. "There is nothing great about Potter."

Dobby's tone was mocking now. "Are you then afraid to tell me your name? After all he is only a wizard."

"I am Smalldirk of the Gravel clan."

"Well Mr. Smalldirk sir. Youse is either very brave or very stupid. I will tell the great Harry Potter your name."

"Go ahead every wizard is afraid we will take their gold from them." This earned a grunt of acknowledgment from the other goblins, for the most part that was true.

"The great Harry Potter doesn't care about gold. He cares about friends. We will be back Mr. Goblin sir."

It was that Thursday evening when the house elf returned looking sad. Everyone had just finished their homework. They were all thanks to Hermione and even Luna well ahead of everyone else. Dobby's eyes were downcast and his head hung low. "Master Harry Potter sir. I is requesting permission to punish myself or maybe even have you give me clothes."

"Dobby my friend. You will do no such thing. Have a seat. Do you wish to leave us Dobby?"

"Oh no sir." He looked up. I failed you is all and I need to punish myself for it."

"No sit here and tell us what happened."

Dobby looked uncomfortable sitting. Hermione jumped in. "Dobby you are our friend first. You are always welcome to sit with us. In fact, we prefer it. Unless there is some sort of formal event. But even then once the formality is over you sit with us. No matter who says anything."

Dobby started crying and both girls had to calm him down before they could get the story out of him.

"Nev. Up for a road trip Saturday?"

"We have that other business to attend to."

"We'll combine them. Dobby I have a quick mission for you. Let me write a short note first."

"What trip Harry?" Curious Luna asked.

"What note Potter?" This sounded like a Harry scheme.

"You two are going to have to try to kiss it out of me. And I'll warn you in advance, even then it won't work."

"Then why mention it?"

"Silly 'Mione. Because he wants our kisses."

"Oh yeah. I can handle that.."

"And that is my signal for me to go to bed. You three know I'm working on something about this right?" Null said.

"Oh we know."

"Harry doesn't. Maybe he can try to kiss it out of us."

Having received permission from the Deputy headmistress for the outing on Saturday, they headed for the three broomsticks. "It is House Potter and House Longbottom business. But we are also going to surprise the girls with a birthday party at the three broomsticks."

"I am putting my trust in you two. I don't want to be disappointed, or lied to."

His brow furrowed in thought. "I don't believe we have. I mean either I or Harry may have in the past but if so I can't recall it."

"I know Mr. Longbottom. That is why I agreed so quickly. You'll be back by 7?"

"We should. If there is an issue we will contact you immediately."

The girls had been unable to get anything out of Harry despite the kisses, hugs, and petting. "Lord Longbottom and Lord Potter. Your room is ready."

Entering the room the girls sat impatiently waiting. Harry ordered a round of butterbeers and waited until they were delivered. "First things first. I unreservedly apologize for missing both of your birthdays. It was a foolish oversight and one that will never be repeated. Please forgive me."

This was not the playing Harry, but the sincere guy they loved so much speaking. "There were several reasons, none of them good but in the normal hustle and bustle I had forgotten them entirely. Please forgive me."

They looked at him and saw the sincerity in his eyes. They had commented to each other but never said a thing to him. They realized it was just an oversight. He distinctly remembering feeling disappointment from them but at the time couldn't figure it out. "Of course Harry. Come here and kiss us." And everything was all right.

"That means you owe us even more presents though." Luna said hopefully.

Laughing. 'Of course. Someone made that very clear to me."

"I will tell you later what happened when I forgot Marion's birthday. It wasn't pretty. I will tell you that she had mixed up a bunch of body parts on me. Eyes where ears go that sort of thing."

"Oh my."

"Yes indeed. I won't tell you where my mouth was. I will never do that again."

"Thanks Null. We all needed that mental image right before our party. Did I tell you recently that I hate you?"

"I bask in your hate." He answered saluting him with the butterbeer bottle.

"First part of the present. 'Mione you especially may not want it. However, this is a gift I want to give to you both and as head of house I hope you will accept it in the spirit it is given."

With some trepidation, the girls looked at each other before saying, "Okay Harry we trust you."

"Thank you. Dobby. Please escort our first guest."

Dobby popped in with another house elf wearing a dirty smock-pillowcase. "What is Harry Potter wanting with a bad elf?"

"You are Winky?"

"I am," she said swaying a bit. "But I is a bad house elf and doesn't deserve a family." She blushed as all house elfs do even their ears getting color like the temperature rising on a thermometer.

"I don't believe that is true. I have heard from several friends what happened. I need a friend, someone that can both guard and attend my ladies. I think you may be perfect for the job. With the understanding that there will hopefully be children to care for in a few years."

"Youse wants Winky for an elf?"

"If you can keep off the butterbeer."

Hope rising in her heart and voice, "Winky cans do that!"

"Ladies can you do this for me?"

"Harry are you sure? I didn't see this at all." Luna, who thought she saw almost everything was mystified.

"I am sure Luna. This must be one of those grey areas. Hermione. You know I am no seer but this is necessary. I feel it in my bones."

"You feel it in your bones?"

"Never mind Luna love. I'll explain it later." To Harry, Hermione added. "Okay Harry. I know our safety is important to you. And I am so past that SPEW stuff. I know the elves need us to live."

"Thank you love. The presents get better from here."

The girls quickly bonded to Winky as she felt the three way bond. It was easy to siphon magic from that bond, so rich and pure her eyes cleared and she stood straighter.

"Dobby. Present number two please."

Dobby appeared with a Granger in either hand. A moment later Xeno popped in as well. The girls cried, "Daddy! and they ran into their father's arms before jumping over to Emma. "Mum, we missed you!" Harry thought they were getting the twin talk down pretty good.

Dobby popped in a cake and hats and Winky decorated the place with a snap of her fingers. Dobby handed Winky an advert and Winky thumbed through it before finding something she liked. With another snap, she was dressed in a little black dress with white piping at the collar and sleeves with matching shoes.

After eating and exchanging presents, (the girls got clothing from both sets of parents as well as Harry. Null had given them some nail polish, none of it black. Harry added much clothing, quills and regular pens and paper.) "Okay our time here in the room is almost expired. The next part comes with its own show. I've told them via Dobby a little of what is happening. Winky. Your next task for this meeting is to protect the Grangers. There shouldn't be any danger but you need to plan for any eventuality."

Xeno translated himself, and Dobby and Winky each took a couple of trips to get everyone to the steps of the bank. "Everyone remember to keep your hands off your wands. If magic is necessary then wandless magic only. Ready?"

Xeno was standing by himself thinking, "Wait. Wandless only? How much did these kids know? On a good day I might be able to do a Lumos." Following them into the bank he decided if he couldn't be a warrior today he would then be a reporter.

It was Saturday. It wasn't over crowded. Soon the right teller was open. It was the same teller Dobby had spoken to.

Smalldirk cursed his luck. The business transaction with the prior customer was just ending as that Potter walked in. He started to close his window when Harry motioned Luna forward.

Hermione translated for the adults. "Small dirk of the clan that grovels! My Lord Potter is curious as to whether that is your name or a description of your mating equipment."

The Goblins who are known for being universally taciturn, all broke up. All except for Smalldirk and others of clan Gravel. Harry and Neville quickly marked them.

He growled back. "That's clan Gravel not grovel."

"That is to be seen Goblin. You insulted a friend of Potter of Potter's. Are you ready to put your clan honor and the banks honor in jeopardy?"

Things got quiet real fast. When the other wizards and witches in the bank saw what was going on, they got out of there really quick. Extra guards came jogging in formation.
There were several other house elfs in attendance on business of their master or mistress. Dobby quickly informed them that the great Harry Potter was defending his honor. They stayed to see that show and several others spread the word.

"What do you want wizard. This is Goblin territory by treaty. You can't use your wand in here without breaking those treaties. And wizards are nothing without their wands; no matter how great you think you are."

"My little friend exaggerates my abilities. But he is my friend and I will go to any lengths to stand for a friend."

"Without a wand?"

"Yeah Tinydirk, without a wand. As you say. too many rely on them."

No one watched Neville. The five of them had spoken at length about actions and reactions based on the goblin's response. Any plan could go sour, but the guys especially had looked forward to this.

The adults couldn't help but snicker along with the goblins and Harry's further twisting of it. "Are you sure you're safe honey?" Emma whispered to Hermione.

"We are mom. They are sending more warriors in to try to intimidate Harry and Neville but none of them will attack unless the boys attack first."

Dan was listening as well, "if you're sure."

Luna as instructed retreated to what they called the safe zone. The house elfs had strict instructions in the case everything went pear shaped."Don't worry Mr. Granger. Even if things go the wrong way. The goblins don't have enough men here to stop our Harry and Neville."

Harry decided to push this forward. "Who is the leader of the warriors?"

"That would be me wizard." An older meaner looking warrior stepped forward.

"May the blood of your enemy drip from your blade as their gold pours into your coffers. I am Harry Potter."

"Lord Potter, may your enemies flee at the sound of your coming. I am Stoneaxe."

"Well met Stoneaxe. I would rather my enemies stay so I can end them rather than flee from me. Are you of clan Grovelers?"

The goblin almost smiled, almost. "That's Gravel Clan. Groveling is something else. I am of the Clan Black rock. The same as Bloodbringer."

"Something I am sure they are good at."

It was only the guard's strict discipline that prevented them from laughing. It didn't stop Neville though, as he watched those of clan Gravel. He always had and would continue to watch his back.

"Then does Minidirk speak for Gringott's? Does he speak for Clan Gravel?
One wrong word could cause a catastrophe. I don't want anyone's blood spilled because of a word."

Stoneaxe repeated louder. "Smalldirk does not speak for Gringott's in this. This is clan Gravel business and House Potter."

Neville interrupted. "House Longbottom also has been insulted by Smallestdirk and stands with Lord Potter against Clan of Grovelers."

The warriors backed off. Still ready but relieved they wouldn't have to kill any humans. Not that they minded but sometimes humans got upset over a few dying. There was nothing wrong with dying, as long as it was a good death. The warriors were sure that these two wizards would have died well.

"Now then Smalldirk. It's you and your clan. Choose wisely. Were you intending to insult both myself and Lord Potter? Or were you insulting a house elf?"

Smalldirk hated humans to begin with. Now he hated them more. Especially since they have insulted him personally since they walked in here. He thought he had left that insulting of his name behind him when he became a junior teller. Now he had lost much face he had to either apologize to these humans or blame it all on a hate of house elfs, which if he was honest with himself was rather easy to do. They were after all lesser beings than even humans. He spoke a little louder than normal, "There was no insult to either Lords Longbottom or Potter. My ire is directed to the house elf Dobby and all house elfs!"

Harry turned to Dobby. "Dobby do wish me to be your champion? It would be my honor."

This to was listed as a possible consequence and it was Dobby's choice. "No Lord. This matter is between Dobby and the groveling clan."

"Winky is for Dobby! The clan Grovel must apologizes to Dobby."

Other house elves stood up as well. No house elf will deal with the house the Grovelers until theys apologize to Dobby!

"I thnk we're done here. Let's go see Bloodbringer."

"You four caused quite a stir. You had commanders calling troops forward. For a short time everyone thought there was going to be another human war."

"Was it worth it?" Emma asked. "Why go through all of that for a laugh."

"No one is laughing Mrs. G. We were and are deadly serious. Honor is a very serious thing. Besides, how far should you go for a friend? He was trying to humiliate either Dobby or Neville and I. We gave him a choice."

Neville jumped in, "and he chose the wrong one. All he had to do was insist that his insult was accidental and directed to Harry and me; apologize for it and would have been done. Instead..."

Harry's turn for twin speak, "he chose the easy way out. After all who cares about a lowly house elf?"

"We do!" The girls jumped in.

"And so does every other elf. This is a first step towards elves standing up for themselves."

Since Dobby and Winky had their own chairs in the office at the four's insistence, they piped in; "And we will."

"Well at least you did this without magic," Xeno added.

"Well I wouldn't say that." Neville hesitated to add.

"I thought I sensed something! Right at the end there. What did you do?"

"Well nothing too bad. I thought him a bit too full of himself. So I helped deflate him a bit." Everyone waited for him to continue. "Well I cast a spell on him only noticeable if he is angry at a human or a house elf. If he has a lot of anger inside then it will vent, loudly and long."

"Vent?"

"Yeah there are only two ways it can vent. either through his mouth or."

"Neville you gave him a case of the angry farts?"

"Well yeah if you want to put it crudely."

Everyone was laughing including Bloodbringer. "Wait a minute my lord. You were watched very carefully for a wand we even had people looking up your sleeves. No one saw a wand."

"Well," Neville shrugged. "We don't really need one. We use one for class but that's just for show."

Bloodbringer ran his clawed fingers through is sparse grey hair. "You four are going to give me nightmares. Is life always this interesting around you?"

The kids laughed, "Always!"

Xeno was stunned and the Grangers were out of their depth.

Curious Hermione asked, "Does it bother you that Null cast a spell on..."

"...on Microdick I mean dirk. No," he snorted. I can't stand the sight of him. He's only barely tolerated by his own clan. Now they have to rebuild their honor and somehow placate the elves. If they had cost the Potter and Longbottom fortunes, the entire clan would have suffered."

"Now they will have to watch for an elf; any elf. If they are of Clan Gravel they will be subject to house-elf magic. Not a good idea. I've seen an angry elf first hand. Formidable."

He was amused, his eyes alight. "I assume this had to do with those investments you had mentioned?"

"It did. Dobby had a request from both myself and Lord Longbottom. In anticipation of this I've asked Dr. and Dr. Granger to assist us with this. I admit I am a novice at this and know nothing at all."

"Harry we know a bit more but we have investment analysts the help us with ours."

Bloodbringer took over and asked the doctors about rate of returns, losses and went into detail. Luna brought her father up to date and he listened carefully. He wasn't afraid to invest if it meant a better future. Having reached the end of the Granger's knowledge Bloodbringer received a card from the doctors as well as examples of their portfolio. He promised to contact them with news of a decision. "I mentioned before that few wizards wanted to be involved with the muggles money system. I will set up a conversation with your investment banker. With a large investment like you are planning I am sure that we can based on the Doctors growth rate, meet or exceed that."

"Dobby wants some of that Mr. Goblin sir."

Harry made a mental note to send Hedwig with a letter tomorrow investing another 100,000 gls in Dobby's name.

Hiding his surprise, he didn't know what a house elf would do if he was rich. but they would find out. "Winky did you wish to invest?"

"Oh sir, Winky is a proper house elf I would never work for wages sir."

"That's fine Winky. No one will force you to. If you ever decide you want to let me or the girls know."

"Well its been interesting and fun. Does that conclude our business Lord Longbottom, Lord Potter?"

"Almost. I hope to have one more present for my girls." Turning to the adults, he stood hands at his side almost at attention, " Mr. and Mrs. Granger."

Hermione hid her mouth behind her fist, "Oh my. Suddenly afraid of a blow up."

"... Mr. Lovegood."

Neville cleared his throat. "ahem Lord." he said trying to hide it sotto voce.

"Excuse me. Lord Lovegood. I formally request your daughter's hand in marriage." He stood there knowing there was a good chance one or both fathers could spit in his face. No matter what they said or did, he would weather the storm they blew.

A very pregnant pause in which Dobby rung his hands, Luna hid her eyes with her hands, silent tears began to fall down Hermione's cheeks. Harry stood waiting. He could feel their fear and anticipation. They had been growing ever closer and he was sure that they would soon be able to see thoughts and hoped to mindspeak.

Emma spoke, very quietly. The adults wanted to know what had changed. Since this was obviously a surprise, even the girls didn't know.

"We told you my time at Hogwarts has been fraught with danger. I would prefer to have a boring year, but that does not seem to be in the cards." He turned to stare at a tapestry, one of goblins warring with humans. He studied it without even really seeing it.

"It's happening again," Dan said.

"it's happening again." Harry verified. "I know the when, and the how and part of the who and why. I just don't know the what."

"The tournament," Hermione said catching on.

"The tournament, he agreed. "Every other year something has happened on the 31st of October. Voldemort will try to kill me or capture me, or something." He turned once more meeting the eyes of each parent. "I have been trying very hard since the summer doing everything I can to protect them. Neville and I study late into the night learning spells, straining our bodies and our magic. I've asked Winky to bond with them; only a fool would willingly piss off a house elf." He said smiling at the earlier meeting. I have enough wealth that neither would have to work for several centuries. I want to live, so they won't die. There is nothing on this planet more important to me than them." He ended pointing at the girls.

"You could run, and take them with you."

"And have us looking over our shoulder? No. Any death eater that comes near them is in for pain. I wouldn't be adverse to the girls going overseas for a couple years. I"ll pay for.."

"Dammit Potter no! You're not getting rid of us that easily."

Luna started to cry, once more hiding her face behind her hands. "No Harry. Don't leave us."

Almost to himself, Harry said, "There went that idea."

Null snorted, "Did you think they would let you?"

"It was worth a shot."

For the first time Dan grew angry. "Back that truck up. What is this you want to live so they won't have to die?"

"We are bonded. What happens to one member of the bond happens to the other. Ours is different however. If something should happen to me there is a chance they could still live. Plus I have an idea." He gave a significant look to Neville who nodded back. They did more than just run and spar in the mornings. They invited the girls but they wanted to give them their time together. The girls had plenty of exercise when they worked with Flitwick who was a serious taskmaster. Most of their tactics in dealing with the goblins earlier were learned from him.

"And an engagement strengthens the bond?" Emma said understanding.

"It does," Xeno added. "It would bring them to the next level sharing power, knowledge."

"And that's why you have been pushing yourself so hard."

"That and I really want to look good for them."

"Damn you Potter you know you do. We can barely keep our hands off of you now."

"What about sex? Will you be rushing into that too?"

"Mrs. G. I don't think we're rushing. This gives the girls more protection. They are still free to remove the rings and throw them back in my face if I am not worthy of them. And I don't think I am, but they seem willing to overlook my flaws and love me anyways. As far as sex is concerned we will always go as fast as the slowest in our group. Sex is inevitable between the 3 of us. I will not rush Luna or Hermione, nor will I let them coerce me into something I don't want."

The girls faces turned red for a moment. "Okay so you weren't ready for that yet. Give it time Potter."

Luna added, "But Harry its so fun!"

"Do you know what they are talking about?"

"No, and Emma if you ever find out. Do not tell me. Even if I ask."

The adults were talking it out. "So Lord Potter are you a seer like Miss Lovegood?"

"Oh no not at all. Luna can see actions and reactions. If someone does this then other possibilities open while others die. She can travel down the road of those possibilities and look into them. Me? I get strong feelings. And I know I have to follow those feelings. I can't see what will happen. I have to trust myself that I chose rightly."

Clearing her throat. "We have never seen three devoted to one another as you are."

"We think you are still young, but you are right in your arguments. This will benefit all of you." The two girls started jumping up and down. Harry breathed a sigh of relief.

Neville and the elves clapped, while Bloodbringer pressed some runes on his desk.

Xeno finished, "We give you permission Lord Potter to marry our daughters."

Harry formally bowed to the parents and then was the victim of a spontaneous group hug. While the hug ensued, a solitary knock and another goblin walked in bowed to Bloodbringer and left two boxes on his desk.

"Lord Potter we received written consent from Lord Black allowing you to use the rings from the Black vault."

Everyone gathered at one side while Harry approached the girls standing side by side. Hermione was eating her bottom lip, while Luna hid her face again, only this time peeking through. He fell to one knee, both boxes open but he managed to cover them until the proper time. "Fate has been pushing us towards each other, but that doesn't mean I will take advantage of you. You are both my heart and soul, you represent everything good in my life. My most important job I have is to somehow prove myself worthy of you two. It will a lifelong task but one I will be happy to undertake. You both know me perhaps better than I know myself. You know my strengths and my weaknesses. Knowing me as you both you do; would you consent to be my wives?"

He turned his hand so they could see the rings. "Oh Harry, my Harry. Yes, today tomorrow; you say the time and place I will be there."

At the same time Luna had been jumping up and down, unable to stay in one place. Her dress was flying up and down and she couldn't give a crap. She was getting her Harry. "Yes, yes, yes!" Punctuated every jump.

With their answers, the magic of the betrothal rings returned them to the vault where they came from. The power of the Potter and Black engagement rings a magnitude above the others. He called forth the Head of house ring and his scion Black ring. Each ring appearing before the girl it was bonded to. The three of them with each of the girls helping Harry repeated the words they said before simultaneously donning the rings, "With these rings, we will consider no other. May our love bind our magic further, sharing our love and lives."

The intensity of the magic blinded everyone for a short time as the rings resized and started the process to move three lonely souls closer.

Everyone congratulated the trio as everyone got their first good look at the rings. The Black ring was a band encircled by tiny diamonds, each vying the next for clarity and perfection, the crown of the ring held a single diamond at least 8 karats that sparkled seemingly through every color in the spectrum. It was heavy on Luna's tiny hand. But she could read through the ring everyone's intent for good or ill. The Potter ring had more color than the Black. It too held a center diamond but this was encircled by rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. It too weighed Hermione's left hand down. She knew it had the same magic as the others but there was something else there. She would have to study this further.

They left a short time later. The emotion of the day exhausting everyone. Dobby brought the Granger's home after hugs and further congratulations. Xeno whispered to his moon child just how happy he was for her before apparating away. They did notice that Smalldirk's window was closed, and the other Gravel Goblins that the boys noted were missing as well.

Impulsively, before they left Luna ran over to Bloodbringer and hugged him as well kissing him on the cheek. "Dammit Lady Luna! Goblins do not hug and kiss."

In her sing-songy voice that only Luna can do, she answered, "They do now! We just started a new tradition. Whether you like it or not you are now part of our family. And families hug and kiss. So there!" And she punctuated her response with her tongue sticking out at him and then skipped out of the room.

The goblin smiled in spite of himself. He was beginning to love those kids.

It still the late afternoon but no one wanted to talk to anyone. Retiring to their room. They talked of inconsequential things, even Hermione too tired to re-review her lessons.

Albus doesn't miss much, especially in what he considers his own castle. His anger rose to new heights when he found out that Potter had become engaged, and it was in a three way soul bond. If it hadn't he may have been able to play one girl against the other. But still these two lords weren't in a bond, and he only needed one of them to complete his plans and it didn't really matter which one lived. He smiled and he relaxed for the first time in days. Surreptitiously he baited the professors against the other while he played conciliator. Severus was especially easy, the many layers of spells and charms and even a potion or two turned the smart man into a nearly mindless weapon. "Yes, this would work well," he thought. Once more he didn't even hear Fawkes sad melody as he once more left the headmaster.
-

It had been a tough week; Snape had especially been a hard task master. The other girls "oohed and aahed" over the rings the first few days, and the four were certain that some of the girls and the few guys that looked were really happy for them. There had been too many lessons both in the politics of the magical world and the various cliques in school that would eventually move into the political sphere.

This was Hermione's and Luna's plan and the girls were dawdling in the great hall waiting for their target. While the boys were working on a completely different phase of the operation. The mark had made it for breakfast with an hour and a half left. Plenty of time for him to eat to his heart's content.

Ron had made a conscious decision to go for fifths today. "I'm a growing boy and I've been scrubbing toilets like a house elf. I deserve it." He didn't notice the two girls just push the food around on their plate while he tried to inhale everything in sight.

"I tell you Luna this is exciting! With the muggles looking into the building blocks of life it will break everything down. Soon they will be able to identify why some people are affected with some diseases and others aren't. They'll be able to find what part of the building blocks are causing the disease and eliminate it. Longer lives, in better health. they'll be able to grow larger crops and healthier ones. The applications of this are staggering, and they're still learning other things they can do!"

"What effect does this have for magicals? The muggles have their toys and bombs, they should leave us alone."

"Too right," Ron mumbled through a mouthful of half-masticated food.

Hermione winked at Luna, trying hard to hide a smile. "How many more people would be alive if they could find a cure for the dragon pox? Or any other diease."

"I guess that's true." Luna was a better actress she was enjoying this. "What else can it do?"

"Hmmm. Let me think." Ron stopped to take a drink and eyeballed the two. "Here's a good example. You told me you think you have some high elf blood in you?"

"That's what my daddy says."

"With the DNA sequencing, that's what it's called; they would be able to identify it and maybe help add the best parts of the other races and find out why some people have more magic than others."

"It would be nice to have the magic of Merlin and the strength of a centaur."

"Right?! I know." She changed the pitch of her voice to make it sound like she was whispering but her volume didn't decrease at all. "Yeah, imagine Harry with a centaur thingy." Hermione actually managed to blush.

"The centaur's great strength comes in part from their eating. For them to be so powerful they have to eat huge amounts. I guess that's where the sayings come from." Luna wasn't shy she said, "You know Hermione, 'he's hung like a horse or he eats like a horse'. I bet they both originate from centaurs."

Hermoine nearly snorted as she saw Ron put his hand under the table and cup himself. "Is there any way to tell? I mean until the DNA thing gets going."

"Hmmm," Luna seemed to give it some thought. "Well for me I would have to find some high elves and greet them and ask them to teach me as a young elf, but they've been unseen for so long."

"What about the Centaurs?"

"I guess anyone that had Centaur blood in them would be strong, and very good with a lance or bow and arrow."

"And they would have a great package!"

Both girls giggled as they left Ron at the table; holding the bag so to speak.

While the girls were in the hall the guys were in cool down walk. The other schools would be coming tomorrow and the school would be even more hectic. They both wanted to have the plan well underway before any other people could change it. Null knocked on the rustic door. "Hagrid? Are you in?"

"Who's? Lord Neville and Lord Harry! Nice of you to visit. Come in come in."

"Hagrid you were my first friend. That lord stuff is for formal events and all of the other idiots."

"Come in have a seat. I see you two running every day. You both go so fast." Hagrid didn't give them an option he pushed them into chairs and put some big cups of tea in front of them. "You know I've been watching you. You're both different." Hagrid was melancholy. "They see me as some mindless oaf and in most cases don't even realize I am near."

Harry took a good sniff. It took a moment to for him to identify it. Null and he were sipping tea, Hagrid's drink may have been near the same color but definitely had a different proof than theirs.

"Imagine, those folks missing someone as big as me!" He laughed humorously. "I thought they were my friends!" It was a plaintive cry. "Dumbledore hired me and told me he was employing me. I thought he was doing me a huge favor. But he was using me, wasn't he?"

Neville had been trying to figure out what was different, and then it hit him as Hagrid asked his question. "His vocabulary and his diction are perfect, all while being pissed!" He wondered if this was a Hagrid thing or a giant thing.

"Hagrid, Fumblemore is a user. He uses people for his own ends and then is such a snake oil salesman can talk his way out of trouble. You know Sirius is innocent don't you?"
"I heard that, but I was uncertain."

"Hagrid how many people do you know that could cast the fidelius charm? He knew who the secret keeper was. And who placed me with the Dursley's? They hate me you know, and then he made me go back there year after year."

"He told my parents to go into hiding as well, just like Harry's mum and dad. The wards on Longbottom Hall are much stronger than almost any others, but they too fell victim to his machinations."

Hagrid took another good pull from his magic tea mug. Then unerringly spit into the fire, making it surge upward 6 feet. Fang just crawled further under the bed. "He's made your life harder hasn't he?"

"I've no proof but I am certain he is the one that poisoned Luna. If I get proof. Well... we'll just leave that unsaid."

Even while in his cups Hagrid could feel the spike in magic in hut. Fang whined before Harry got himself back under control. Forcing himself to relax, he interlocked his fingers behind his head and tried to stretch out his feet, which promptly hit the wide circular support of Hagrid's huge table."Mind the war.."

"Hagrid!" They said together. "You've got to be shitting me," Null continued.

He almost sounded sober, "I shouldna said that." Taking another pull of his "tea". He answered himself "Fuck it. There are few people in around here I trust with this. You are two of them."

"Thank you Hagrid," Harry said very touched. "Can we look at it?"

"I don't see why not. Seeing as the thestral has left the paddock." He had placed his large mug on the mantle and was going to lift the huge table top, but Neville beat him to it.

"Don't strain yourself Hagrid, I've got it."

Null pointed a finger at the table top and willed it up. He lifted up to the very top of the round hutch and it hovered there. Meanwhile, Harry had closed the drapes making it darker, easier to see the runes. All of them had an interest in wards. Three of the four have suffered losses and Hermione's fear was that the DE's were going to track her parents down.

"Why is this here Hagrid? Everyone has wondered where this was hidden."

"Best to hide it in plain sight isn't it? That's the one thing I have to thank Dumbledore for; making me 'keeper of the keys. I'm responsible for it."

The two lords looked at each other. A sober Hagrid would have missed the gesture, apparently, a drunk Hagrid was much more observant. "What? What am I missing?"

"Hagrid," Harry started. "If something happens, he gets to blame you again. And he'll sacrifice you for his greater good and leave your ass is Azkaban."

The truth of it hit Hagrid like a 20lb sledge. He sat heavily in the chair and took another pull of the Ogden's finest tea. "Put it back before someone sees will you?"

Neville gestured and the heavy table unerringly dropped softly on top of the stone. "When it's safe can we and the girls study that some more? We'll be careful and this will be a wonderful time to learn from some of the strongest wards there is."

"It has been 200 hundred years plus since the last person found it. I trust you. By the way, I noticed Neville you didn't use wand for that and raised the table effortlessly, and held it there for all of three minutes. Do you know how many people can do that?"

"At least four. Harry and I and the two girls. But they can't hold it that long yet."

"They'll get there. Nothing is going to stop my girls."

"I'm happy for you Harry. They're two of the kindest girls I've ever met. And I'm sorry Ron has been such a prat to you this year. You showed great restraint in not punishing him or his family."
"Hermione and Luna decided they will be the ones to help Ronald learn the error of his ways. Don't be surprised if there is a sudden interest in archery. And no, no one will shoot him or anything like that. You'll see."

"And Neville, how about you? Are there any young ladies in your future?"

Neville smiled. Last year he would have blushed to his socks. However, Marion had been a wonderful influence on him. She taught him the hunt is an important part of mating rituals of young humans and the young ladies even if not interested will always appreciate a sincere 'hunt.' "There are a couple. I have not been rebuffed, but I am looking in a hostile environment if you understand my analogy."

"That narrows the field considerably. I will be watching carefully. I am tired of being alone."

The whiskey was starting to catch up with their large friend. "Hagrid, you are our friend. If you need something, let us know."

Forcing him to stand and they made him lie in the huge bed. It was little better than the beds from a hundred years ago. It was cloth and probably stuffed with a few tired feathers and knowing Hagrid some leaves. Firmly picturing in his mind what he wanted, he forced the magic to obey him. While Hagrid lay on it, the frame and mattress changed and became a super strong super extra long model of the top of the line muggle mattress. They left as his snores rumbled through the cottage.
-

"Remember when we met Aunt Muriel's cousin? He taught us archery. He said I was a natural." Ron was dragging the twins to the field where the hay bales had been set up with targets. He already had gotten the necessary equipment from Hagrid. Who had him repeat the required safety rules back before he would let him have them.

"Ron you were 8. He was being nice." Gred said.

"As we remember you didn't hit the target," Forge continued.

"But I hit the tree the target was on." He sounded very sure of himself.

In stereo, "What's this about?"

"Hermione says I have Centaur blood in me."

"Hermione said that?"

"Pretty much. I have all of the signs and this will prove it. Watch, I'll show you how good I am!"

The kids started at the customary 25 paces from the target. It was an open field with some trees at the end. If you wanted a more challenging shot, instead of moving the targets back, the participants could go back as far as they wanted. Ron was certain in his delirium that he was descended from Centaurs and he wrote his father and asked him about his family history that morning. Hermione was never wrong, except for being Potter's girl but once he was accepted into the herd she would drop the prat in a heartbeat especially since he was really well endowed. He knew because his mum had told him.

Both Fred and George insisted on going first, they wanted to ensure that the arrows weren't charmed. Being purebloods they had a passing familiarity with all the weapons expected of the nobility and their sons. They were expected to answer their lord's call as vassals. None of them were very good, but their father had dutifully trained the sons and told them they were expected to practice. Of course, none of them paid attention to that tripe.

Harry hid in plain sight. He had his invisibility cloak about him with only his wand out. Even that was obscured by the bushes he peered through. He was impressed, both George and then Fred took aim and sent 10 arrows down range before retrieving them. For not being as practiced as they should have been, they both hit the target 6 out of 10 times. All the time being "cheered" on by Ron. "Ooh that was close, you almost missed the bale," and, "wow you're going have to hunt for that one." It didn't help his cause as he finished when they both had their chances, "You 2 are pathetic. I will show you how it's done."

Even from his vantage point, Harry could see how angry the twins were. They had had some private concerns about this prank until Ron showed his true colors. "Okay then William Tell. Show us mere mortals how it is done."

Ron was momentarily confused by his new name but decided to ignore it. The other 2 schools were due soon and Ron knew that McGonagall was going to be screaming for him soon, and then to it was almost time to eat.

To his credit, Harry was impressed if by nothing else then by his attitude. He looked very confident as he took bow and arrow and drew back and let fly seemingly without aiming. "Shit!" he screamed in his mind. It was if Ron really could see him the arrow seemed to by flying directly toward him. But he had been ready and accio'd the arrow to dead center on the target.

Ron did it 9 more times each time disparaging his brother's efforts. So focused was he on his task, when he turned back finally completed his brothers had disappeared. "Hmm. They must have gone to find that Bill Tell fellow."

Some of the students were excited and greeted the other school's delegations. Ron was still in trouble so he had to stand next to McGonagall which meant that he needed to be outside in his best school robes and that meant he had to have his hat as well. Which since Ron was Ron that meant he couldn't find it. His brothers were mad for some reason, he was certain that it is because he had the Centaurs pants and they didn't. Seamus had known a little about it too so he knew that Hermione was right. After all these muggle borns knew all of this muggle stuff. If he was able to talk to Hermione he would ask her what those muggle jeans had to do with Centaurs.
- -

Flashback:

It was a Monday morning and the trio was running a bit behind. A lot of little things were left undone and they were scrambling trying to get their clothes ready, make sure all of their assignments were put in their bags, and even find their shoes which all of a sudden they noticed were missing; all of theirs.

Meanwhile, Neville sat with his feet on the table and buffed up a nail that really didn't need it. "Harry, did you look in the bathroom for your shoes? I might have seen them there." Harry tore off into the bathroom looking for the shoes, while almost slipping in his last pair of socks which happened to be a Dudley cast off. "Hey girls, I think Harry found them in your bathroom!" The two girls which had been tearing into their trunks ran into Harry coming from the bathroom empty handed.

"You mean they weren't there? I'm sorry. I guess I was mistaken."

Trying to extract himself from the girls and stand up while Luna decided she had had enough and wasn't moving for a while; which sent Harry over the edge. "Where are those two?"

"Harry they're on your lap. Can't you tell?"

Luna grabbed his face and squished it and turned his eyes directly into hers about 2 inches away. "Yes Harry, we're right here. Did you hit your head? Did the menacing mombanders finally decide to nest in your ear?" She turned his head violently to peer into his ear so he was looking at Hermione, laughter in her eyes. With his face still pressed firmly between Luna's hand he managed to say his normal morning rant, "Null, You know I hate you right?"

"I know Harry, but it is a good thing you have 2 witches to look after you. Especially one that can see the dreaded menacing mombanders."

Kissing both of his ladies, they both knew how to calm him down, he took control of the situation. "Dobby! Winky! Where are you two?"

The two "popped" in looking like they were ill. "Dobby! Winky!" The two girls hugged the house elves. "Are you okay? Come on sit on the couch. Can we get you anything?"

"No's weeze fine, just tired. Dobby and me were cursing nasty goblins all night long."

"You and Winky were in Gringott's all night long?"

"The goblins have many protections on the moneys and things, not so many on the caves where they live. Sose Winky and me entered into banksie under Great Harry Potter's no see coat and an elf no see'm spell. We asked many elves to pop in and walk in all day long and only see small insignificant rock clan. We stay entire day and once they close we follow bad goblinses to their caves."

Winky took over, "Every time wizard or elf sees tiny dirk bad goblins fouls air. They had to use more and more clean air spells to keep people in bank."

"So what did you two do?" Despite the time they all wanted to know what the two spies did.

"We followed them to their caves and goblins have many ways to look for any magic so we had to hide the magic." Winky was proud of Dobby as she regained some life.

"Dobby is smartest elf ever, Goblins have spell on waste room when you push a handle all goblin waste disappears. Dobby hides elf magic into goblin charm, when handle gets pushed everyone near infected with elf spell like minidirk has."

"Let me get this straight," Hermione interrupted. "When they flush the toilet to get rid of their poop and pee they reinfect themselves with your spell to fart louldy and stinkily at every wizard and elf?"

"That is so mistress."

Luna took over, "and even if the have the spell removed, the next time they flush it will be recast on them?"

"Yes mistress."

"And you did this to whom?"

"All the small useless rock clan Master Harry Potter sir!"

The four broke out in laughter, "Harry, ladies. Our next day off we have got to go to the bank."

The elves looked happy from the praise of a job well done but were quite literally falling asleep right where they were. "Two quick things. First, when you are done with us in a moment you go to bed and rest do not do any magic until you feel better. Understood?"

They both nodded, their eyes closed. "Last thing then. Where are our shoes?"

The two disappeared but Dobby's voice was heard, "On your feet Master Harry Potter sir."

Flashback end
-

Beta Note: This is my favorite chapter yet. It only gets better from here folks.