Harry Potter and the Power of Time

by RossWrock

Now AU, 6th Year, following OoTP. Tired of the way Dumbledore and the Order treat him, and ready to face his destiny, Harry dedicates long hours to muggle and magical training to take the fight to Voldemort for a change. Slight HPGW, not shippy though.

25. Houseguests, Part 2

Harry Potter and the Power of Time

Chapter 25 – Houseguests, Pt. 2

In was almost two hours later, when all three men met at the kitchen table with large bowls of pasta in front of them. Neville had had plenty of time to set up his parents for the night, Remus had been filled in on their adventurous afternoon, and all three had gotten a chance to clean up as well.

Dobby had cooked a quick meal while Winky stayed with the Longbottoms, and there was nothing else to do except come clean and start talking. So Harry began, as much as he was afraid of what his friend's reactions would be.

"You all know this summer I snuck off to Diagon Alley, and bought some things. I was tired of being controlled by people who weren't being honest with me, and I was tired of having the truth hid. Which led of course to me and Professor Dumbledore being at odds, which still needs to be resolved. Well, there's some other stuff I haven't told anyone yet; important things, not all of which are legal. You see, it all started that night in the Department of Mysteries, when I stumbled into a room with experimental objects in it. Remember all the time turners Neville? Well you see, the next day, in my robes I found......"

And so Harry explained much to the surprise and wonderment of the other two exactly what he'd been up to. He explained about how he'd not spent two months during the summer training like he led his friends to believe, but nearly seven. How he had traveled back in time to repeat each week twice, and how he'd done nothing almost every day but exercise, read and run. How he'd found the counter to the Ministry's monitoring spell not only in Knockturn Alley like he'd said, but also in the dank and highly illegal private storeroom beneath Borgin & Burkes' shop. Where he also took an antidote to the potion Dumbledore slipped to all his students, which even Remus wasn't aware of. And then how he'd continued with his training even at Hogwarts, and even repeating each week only once still provided him enough time to devote to his normal studies and activities, and still advance in his training at a swift pace.

Neville took most of the news at face value. He had a few questions about how Harry had found everything he seemingly needed in such a short time, but after all he'd seen Harry capable of, he didn't question much. Most of what Harry had been doing at school even before he gave away his secrets Neville found incredible, so the extra info didn't surprise him like it might once have.

Harry did have to remove his shirt to show off his guardian tattoos though, as that was something Neville was curious about. Remus had already seen them, but took another view as the opportunity presented itself. Remembering back earlier in the day when Harry had showed Neville the tattoo parlor, Neville smiled as the pieces came together. Harry went on to explain that each tattoo was said to have a specific property, but so far only Prongs had shown his.

"A golden Patronus?" Neville asked. "Wow! If it's really like you said, that's huge Harry! Do you think you could cast it for me so I could see?"

Harry shook his head. "Sorry Neville, but I can only cast it when there are real Dementors present. I've tried before in the past, but I could only produce my normal silver patronus."

"But you just said you were practicing before you found out about the Prongs tattoo in Diagon Alley," Neville argued. "I still don't know how you got there though. No one ever saw you leave Halloween, and we were keeping an eye on you. After your scar hurt you earlier that day, we didn't want to leave you alone."

"It was your double, wasn't it?" Remus guessed. "That's why nobody suspected you. There were actually two of you around that night. One at Hogwarts eating dinner, and another helping in Diagon Alley, under your invisibility cloak."

"Yup," Harry smiled. "You finally found me out. It's been the only time so far I've had to leave my trunk when I've repeated a week. At the time I didn't understand why it had to be that way, as my future self was making all the decisions. Later in the week though when I found out about Amber's death, I knew why it had to be that way. So soon after loosing her, I would have been too tempted to save her, and that would have risked the timelines. I'm still not sure how using the time tuner will affect things if I play with time like that, so I avoid the possibility whenever I can. That's why I confine myself to my trunk whenever I'm repeating a week. It worked out for the best though, because my future self knew exactly what had happened, and was waiting to heal all my injuries when I got back."

"So how old are you, really I mean?" Neville asked.

"Legally, I'm still the same age. Sixteen and a half. There's no way to track use of time turners to such a degree that anybody will know for certain how much extra they've aged. Take Hermione for instance. When she used her time turner in third year, she must have repeated some class periods two or three times. Her problem was that she didn't spend any extra time sleeping; she should have done that. But nobody's really sure how much extra she aged, so the Ministry doesn't recognize her as being older.

"It's the same with me, although I've got a pretty good idea of how much I've traveled. I've been repeating the same schedule sine I first starting using the time tuner, so physically I guess, I'm about one year older than I should be. Everyone thinks my height increase has just been a normal growth spurt, but really it's just been me aging like normal. But because you see me every other week, nobody notices the subtle changes."

"Neville made a good point though, Harry," Remus pointed out. "You tried to reproduce your golden patronus before you made the discovery about Prongs in Diagon Alley that night. Have you tried again now that you know your tattoo has to do with the ability?"

Harry was stumped. "No, I haven't. How could I not have thought of that? I guess knowing that I could use it if real Dementors were present didn't worry me about using it in practice situations."

"Well try now," Neville asked excitedly.

Harry was a little excited himself as he stood from the table, and backed away from the others. With his wand drawn, he concentrated on his shoulder blade, and the tattoo he knew to be there. Then, summoning up all his positive thoughts, he intoned the spell, "Expecto Patronus," and waved his wand towards the lift doors.

Even before Harry incanted his spell, both Remus and Neville saw the Prongs tattoo on Harry's naked torso crawl down his arm towards his wand hand. Then when the spell was said, gold mist poured out the end of Harry's wand, until if formed the familiar shape they'd been expecting. Even Neville had seen Harry's patronus enough times to recognize him, even though he'd never seen him gold before.

The misty stag looked just like he had the other two times Harry and Remus had seen him, and after a short canter around looking for prey, he turned his attention back to Harry, and bowed before dissipating.

Spurred on by his success, Remus insisted Harry try to conjure the spell in a number of other ways. He wanted to know if Harry could produce multiple patroni at once, if he could produce his regular, silver patronus if he still wanted, and he wanted to know if Harry would be willing to try his second wand with the spell.

The multiple patroni didn't work, but Harry was able to call on his regular silver patronus if he consciously asked his tattoo to stay on his shoulder. Casting the spell with Hedwig's wand hadn't occurred to him before though, and Harry was just as excited as the others on what might happen.

"EXPECTO PATRONUS," Harry yelled, brandishing his new wand. Not really knowing what to expect, the three were still shocked and surprised when a fully formed animal leapt right out the end of Harry's wand.

Unlike normally when it would form out of conjured mist, this beast was a spitting image of a real stag, right down to the smallest detail. He was still completely gold, but in much clearer focus than any patronus the others had ever seen before. He was also twice the size, and would probably only look ordinary standing next to Hagrid. The stag's antlers reached ten feet into the air, and Harry counted himself fortunate that his place had vaulted ceilings, otherwise he couldn't imagine what would have happened.

Perhaps the most extraordinary thing though was that this Prongs was fully corporeal. Not just a whisp of vapor, Harry could actually see the substance the creature was made of. And unlike normal patroni that required guidance by their casting wizard, this stag moved about of his own accord, and didn't dissipate after finding no prey. Instead he approached the others to be pet, and Neville was the first to be surprised that he could actually touch the living totem.

"I can feel him! Harry, he's real!"

Harry was too flabbergasted to worry about what he'd do with a ten foot wild stag in his home at the moment, and Remus was continually circling the creature, taking all sorts of readings with his wand. He too reached out to touch the stag to make sure Neville wasn't exaggerating, and then withdrew suddenly as if finally realizing the implications of it all. If he was impressed and astonished before when Harry managed the golden spell with his original wand, the thoughts running through his mind now were multiplied by a factor of ten.

After some more silent minutes, the stag finally bowed to Harry and dissipated. Turned into vapor like all his kind, the fact that he lasted almost five minutes under his own power was still impressive.

Harry put his shirt back on while the others all gathered their thoughts, and then they all retook their seats at the kitchen table as Harry's story continued. The lifelike, huge golden patronus was just chalked up to another of Harry's important discoveries.

Back in storytelling mode, Harry continued to fill his friends in on how he'd been training. As the story moved away from facts that Remus already knew, he became concerned when hearing that Harry had been dueling himself, and in fact using the Cruciatus almost daily. Neville turned green at the thought, but Harry assured them he had started slowly and worked his way to longer times; to try and build up a tolerance. It had worked somewhat, as he was able to throw the curse off with near one hundred percent success now. Remus was both impressed and revolted with the news, and Neville choose to remain silent. He didn't know how he felt about Harry training himself against the Unforgiveable, and didn't want to speculate. Both Remus and Neville however couldn't ignore that Harry had done what no other wizard had before, nor were many even willing to try.

Finally the two had been filled in with every detail Harry thought was important, save one. Already he was keeping too many secrets from too many people, so he vowed to just tell these two everything; to get it off his chest. The different levels of information Harry had told many of his other friends and professors were getting harder to keep straight in his head, and the less worry he had, the better Harry thought he'd be.

And when it was finally over with, Neville got to ask the question he'd been wanting to ask since the fight at St. Mungo's had ended.

"But Harry, where did those Death Eaters really go off to? You stunned them; I saw you; and there's no way they up and escaped like you claimed they had."

"Well Neville," Remus explained like the scholar he was, "it is possible to overcome a stunning spell with enough training. Just like Harry's been building a tolerance with Crucio, if someone gets stunned enough times, their body learns to fight the effects. Or they could have used a form of protection, like Harry's dragon-hide vest. And if even one of the Death Eaters became conscious, he could have revived the rest of them, and been away before Harry even realized."

"No he couldn't Remus," Neville smirked back. "Harry used the personal stunner he's been working on. I didn't hear the incantation, but the navy blue light gave it away. So unless Harry Enervates them himself, there's no way they could wake up on their own."

Turning to Harry, Remus asked, "You finished it? Why didn't you say so?"

"Sorry," Harry answered. "With everything else that's been happening, it must have slipped my mind. I actually finished the spell alterations weeks ago, but didn't get the chance to use it until now. Neville offered earlier in the week, but I wasn't sure. At least now I know it works."

"Show him Harry," Neville said while standing up. "I can also tell you if it feels any different from a regular stunner. Merlin knows I've been hit with those enough times."

"Are you sure Neville? I can just as easily show Remus on someone else?"

"I'm sure," he confirmed. "Just do it quick before I loose my nerve."

So Harry stunned Neville, and then quickly revived him after Remus was unable too. When Neville was fully aware, he told them that at least from his perspective, he didn't notice a difference. Then Neville suggested they try again using Harry's other wand. This time however Harry vetoed the idea. His other wand was much too unpredictable with spells he wasn't proficient at, and the personal stunner was still too new. Harry did remember that he used it on three of the Death Eaters though, and besides some extra power, it had looked the same.

"What's that incantation about though, Harry?" Remus asked. "Stubefy? It sounds more like you sneezed than you cursed someone."

"Harry," Neville was beginning to blush, no doubt due to embarrassment. "You didn't really, did you?" Because Harry's spell had acted so fast, Neville hadn't heard the incantation when he got stunned.

Harry had to laugh at Neville's situation. "Well, I needed some way to differentiate between the spells Neville, and your mispronunciation was just as good as any. Actually it was the first thing that came to mind, and I couldn't get it out of my head. Hope you don't mind?"

"Um, guys," Remus inquired, "what the heck are you talking about?" It took a little while longer for Neville to recover after Remus was told the whole story about Neville's broken nose and failed attempts at the spell.

"So where did those Death Eaters go then?" Remus asked. "You've been avoiding the issue Harry. We know they didn't escape like you said." Remus swallowed nervously as he considered the possibilities.

"You didn't kill them, did you?" Remus hated to even think it, but if Harry was so willing to use one of the Unforgivables (even if it was only on his self), what was to stop him from using others?

"Don't be absurd," Neville came to Harry's defense. "That would make Harry no better then they are, and he'd never sink that low. What did you do with them Harry?

"They're in my pocket!" Harry answered jovially. He wasn't upset for Remus thinking so badly about him, but Harry did feel a smug satisfaction at the gob-smacked look on his mentor's face.

Harry let the two ponder the answer for a good half minute, before he had to laugh in their faces, and brought out his trunk. "Come on in, I'll show you."

Opening his trunk to the third compartment, Harry ushered them inside. For his next bit of news, Harry knew seeing it would be much more believable than hearing it.

After a quick tour for Remus's sake (who had known about the trunk, but hadn't yet gotten a chance to look inside), Harry placed his hand on the magical portal in his living quarters, and opened the last compartment. So far Remus had been impressed, but with everything else he'd seen and heard that day, wasn't overly shocked. Stepping into the next compartment though, blew everything else he'd been explained out of the water. For there, lying in a heap at the bottom of a ladder, were none other than the five missing Death Eaters, still unconscious.

"Cool Harry!" Neville cheered.

"Harry, how? What?" Remus wasn't making any sense. He almost ran forward to the fallen men, but once remembering who they were, fell back behind the others. Then when he remembered they were all stunned, pushed Harry and Neville out of the way to inspect them.

"Harry! That's the Lestrange Brothers, and Matt Blaycock! These are dangerous men! I don't know who the other two are, but how on earth...."

"One of the others is Pansy Parkinson's older brother," Harry interrupted him. "I don't know who the last one is, but I don't think he's too high ranking. Rodolphus Lestrange was in charge, and I'll bet he'll have the most information to give up.

"Information?" Neville asked.

"Let's just say these aren't the first Death Eaters to have visited my trunk. Follow me, and I'll explain everything."

So each levitating at least one of the men, Harry led the group towards the back of the large room, where twenty small cells were built against two walls of a corner. Harry directed them to the leftmost wall, as he knew the other ten cells were all currently occupied.

"This is my last big secret, I swear," Harry informed the others. "This is the whole reason why I've been training so hard; Death Eaters. And while I didn't plan on them ambushing us today, I'm not sorry it happened. These five will make a nice addition to my collection.

"Collection?" Remus was almost afraid to ask.

"Yes," Harry nodded. "Collection of prisoners." Then without another word, but a wave of his wand, all the cells doors turned transparent, and Neville and Remus almost fell down in shock at seeing so many other obvious Death Eaters already jailed.

"Wicked," Neville again cheered with a look of incredulity on his face.

"What the bloody hell have you been doing?" Remus screamed. "If Dumbledore or the Ministry knew what was going on here, you'd be thrown in one of those cells yourself!"

"Like I said," Harry coolly replied, "not everything I've been doing is legal. But trust me when I say that all these men are guilty of heinous crimes, and deserve to be locked up. I would have turned them over to the Ministry already, but as we've seen, Azkaban's not secure. If they got sent there, they'd be out serving Voldemort again in a matter of weeks. The only reason why this is such a successful prison is that only I have access to it as of now, and no one else knows about it. Even if the Death Eaters managed to escape from their cells, they don't have any wands to do magic with, and they couldn't get out of the trunk without me opening the lid."

It took a little while longer to calm mostly Remus down, but Harry explained how he'd gone out to Diagon Alley one day, and had stumbled across his first prisoner; Sean Hazelton. From there, things had kind of snowballed. Information that one Death Eater gave up would be used to capture another, and so on and so one. And before he knew it, Harry now had fifteen Death Eaters all locked in separate cells; not knowing the fate of the others.

"But why you, Harry?" Neville asked. "I mean, I'm really impressed with all you've done and everything, but you still haven't said why you're leaving school to take such huge risks. Wouldn't it be safer to let the Order and the Ministry handle all this? You could still live in your new home and be in control of your own life without going out to capture Death Eaters."

"It's the prophecy, isn't it?" Remus guessed. Harry had let him in on the first part of the prophecy too, but neither Remus nor anyone else besides Dumbledore knew what the second half said.

"Oh," Neville suddenly realized, "right. I forgot about that. I don't know if you should tell us Harry. The way you talked about the prophecy, you made it sound really important. I think the less people who know what it says, the better."

Harry smiled sadly. "That's exactly why I don't mind telling you, Neville; you too Remus. You've both earned my trust this year, and I know if I tell you, you won't give away my secrets."

"You'd tell me, and not even Hermione and Ron?" Neville wondered.

"Ron and Hermione are the best friends I could ask for Neville," Harry assured him, "but sometimes they care too much about me. Even if it means betraying my confidence, they'd both share the prophecy with another if they thought they were helping me. Or at least, I think they would. Maybe in the future I'll be able to tell them, but I don't feel comfortable right now. You know how jealous Ron gets. If he and I got in another fight, he might let anything slip just to get even with me. And Hermione? Well, let's just say that she puts too much confidence in authority. I think of all my friends, she's the most uneasy about the fights me and Professor Dumbledore have been having. Even Ginny and Luna would handle the information better, I think. Funny really, that my oldest and best friends are the least trustworthy. But I know it's only because they care. They just need more time to accept that I'm my own person, and there's no way I'm not going to be fighting Voldemort again."

"Is that what the prophecy says, Harry?" Remus asked nervously. "That you and Voldemort have to fight again?"

"It says more than just that," Harry admitted. "Basically, it says that in the end, it comes down to just us two. One of us will kill the other, and only then can the victor get on with his life. That's why I can't hide or pretend like I won't face him again. So I've decided to get ready, and do all I can to weaken him. The less Death Eaters he has supporting him, the less power he holds."

Pausing to let what he said sink in some, Harry took a deep breath and repeated the prophecy start to finish.

"The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches...born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies...and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not...and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives."

Harry left off the ending that just repeated the beginning lines, as that had always just annoyed him. Still, that didn't lessen the bombshell any, and Harry let Remus and Neville ponder what they'd heard before moving on. No more talk about the prophecy was mentioned that night, and a silent agreement was understood that none of them would mention it to anyone besides themselves.

"So about the information you were talking about?" Neville brought up again.

And with that, the three men had moved past any uncomfortable silences onto other topics. Harry explained how in his Potions study he'd learned to brew Veritaserum, and how he'd been interrogating his captives for more information. That was how he'd come up with the list of names he'd passed on to Remus, and how he knew where to find other Death Eaters, as well as security details for their homes and their habits and schedules.

Harry also took the time explaining in detail all he'd learnt about the V line of vaults, and how they'd been set up years earlier by Voldemort in his youth. It was through these vaults (entrusted to most of his Death Eaters) that he managed to live and pay for his needs. Harry thought it would be a good idea to take away as much of Voldemort's assets as he could, so that's why he'd been emptying the V vaults of his captors.

Again Remus had a problem with Harry stealing money and using it for his own benefit, but Harry reassured him with the fact that the money was being kept separate from his own finances, and that he hadn't spent a single knut of it. It wasn't his intention to rob the Death Eaters; only to make them nervous and put pressure on Voldemort's finances. Harry had every intention of handing over all the money he'd taken when he turned the Death Eaters to the proper authorities. Let the Ministry return the money, or keep it themselves; he didn't care. But until he was confident that Azkaban or another suitable prison was secure enough, he'd hold onto it for now.

Neville didn't mind that Harry had taken the money, but he was concerned that the transactions could be traced and Harry would get in trouble. Again, Harry had to remind himself that Neville had led a sheltered childhood, and that goblin law was very different from what he was used to.

Remus confirmed Harry's actions. To the goblins' eyes, all the transactions were legal, and therefore wouldn't be contested by them. If Avery or any of the others were to show up in person claiming they'd been impersonated, that was another matter, but that wouldn't happen. Harry had them under tight lock and key, and hopefully they'd stay that way until moved to a permanent prison. And even if Avery's wife or relatives wanted to contest the withdrawals, they couldn't without his witness. Therefore, until Avery showed up in person, to the outside world it looked like he had simply taken the money and run.

Not even Voldemort as original creator of the V line of vaults could interfere with transactions in and out of them. He could make his own, yes, but couldn't stop someone else from emptying an account. When he had set up the vaults, he never considered the fact a vigilante group or person would capture his Death Eaters, and unlawfully empty their accounts. Dumbledore and the Ministry would never do such a thing, the goblins wouldn't dare steal from him, so he'd thought his system was perfect. Through use of many vials of Veritaserum Harry had discovered the flaw, and after hearing the lengthy explanation, Neville understood that Harry was safe.

Remus was interested to witness Harry interrogate the men, but it was too late at night for that, and all of them needed sleep after their long day. Harry promised he'd wait for Remus, but until then, settled for locking the new Death Eaters into empty cells. All wands, magical objects, and extra clothing had been removed as Harry had made routine, and they'd only been woken up once secured and locked in. Blaycock and Rabastan Lestrange revived from Harry's Enervate spell no problem; except that they though they were just about to attack a hospital ward, and it took each of them a moment to realize things must had gone very wrong.

Rodolphus Lestrange, Chris Parkison, and the fifth man however didn't wake when Harry tried to revive them. Remus and Neville tried too, but even after Harry's forth try at "Enervate," they remained unconscious.

After some worry and speculation, it was Harry that finally remembered that he'd cursed those three with his second wand, and the extra power must not have let his original work in reviving them. And indeed it was the problem, as after he pulled Hedwig's wand from his spare holster, all three men woke up without further complications. It was just another quirk of Harry's wand and abilities, and one that he made a mental note to explore further in the future.

It wasn't even ten when all three friends said goodnight, and retired to their rooms. Remus had taken his customart bedroom, but Neville had moved all his things to his parents' new quarters earlier in the afternoon. The empty flat had two small bedrooms inside, and he much preferred being closer to his parents, even if he sacrificed some luxuries. Later in the week Harry promised him that they'd decorate the space properly, and that was good enough for now for them both.

And so once again in his own bed, not even attempting to deal with his Occlumency exercises after such an eventful day, Harry drifted off to sleep sore and injured, but very satisfied.

---

"CRUCIO!"

Two men and a woman screamed as their master, Lord Voldemort, took his anger out on them. What was supposed to be victory celebration for their successful string of attacks had instead turned into a mass torture session. Four of their numbers had been captured, another seven weren't answering their summons or were missing, and the Death Eaters that had arrived at Voldemort's secret lair had only succeeded in causing little damage and destruction. No mudbloods or muggles had been killed like ordered that afternoon, and if not for the Dementors kissing nine victims, the day would have been a total defeat.

Lifting the curse after two whole minutes, Voldemort eyed the men before him with pure venom beating throuh his heart. He was not one for failure, and lately that was all his trusted servants seemed to report.

"Bellatrix! Lucius! Dolohov! Why do you force me to me to punish you? Why do you fail your Lord, when all he asks is the simple task of killing a few dirty mudbloods who aren't even capable of protecting themselves? We had an orchestrated plan of attack arranged for today. Four simultaneous attacks to distract aurors away from Rodolphus's attempt to abduct young Potter from St. Mungo's. It was brilliant, and yet you all failed. Tell me, why has my plan unsuccessful?"

None of the Death Eaters wanted to answer, but luckily only three were being questioned at the moment. Bellatrix Lestrange, Lucius Malfoy, and Antonin Dolohov were the three highest ranking Death Eaters in attendance at the meeting, and had also been left in charge of three of the four attacks made earlier that day. The fourth leader, Mulciber, was caught at Azkaban with three of his team, and currently being held in Ministry holding cells awaiting his trial. Somehow, even Malfoy envied the man right now, as he was at least safe from Voldemort's wrath.

The last time Malfoy had taken initiative and answered his Lord's question, he'd been punished anyway on a whim. He knew the same would happen again this time, and most likely be even more painful than before. Never had he seen his master so angry, and he was shamed to admit his fear, if only to himself. Luckily Bellatrix Lestrange wasn't half sane, and answered Voldemort on behalf of the team leaders. Her claims of there being a traitor in their midst didn't please him though, and she was cursed into unconsciousness for her efforts.

"Since the traitor Snape managed to escape my wrath, you know I've not allowed another of his kind among my fold. So don't speak to me about a spy! Lucius....tell me, what really happened today?"

"Damn," Malfoy sword under his breath. Behind his mask he was afforded such small luxuries. But Voldemort was expecting an answer, and he had no choice but to tell the truth. Even a single small lie could get him killed.

"My Lord, I have no proof of a spy like Lestrange has claimed. However, the Ministry aurors and Dumbledore's men were clearly on alert when we arrived to attack by portkey, and their numbers were not what we'd been expecting. In Hogsmeade alone, there were thirty men on patrol when there should only have been five. With only sixteen under my control, we were no match against their larger number. The townspeople too joined in once the fight had started, and only after the Dementors showed did they retreat to their homes. I don't know how Dumbledore found out about our attack today, but he must have somehow. No loner with the element of surprise, or superior numbers, I felt it best to retreat when my men started to loose ground. I cannot speak for Bellatrix and Antonin, but I'd guess they felt the same."

"And what of Mulciber's capture, and Rodolphus's team at St. Mungo's?"

"I'm not sure, my lord," Lucius answered nervously. "Mulciber was captured at Azkaban, though I have no details on how at this time. Our spies inside the Ministry have all recently been found out or aren't talking; something that I've reported to you before. As for Rodolphus's attempt on Potter, I've heard it's failed."

Voldemort's red eyes twitched at the news, but otherwise he remained silent. Talking that as his signal to continue, Lucius Malfoy returned to his report.

"Ministry aurors were called to the scene by St. Mungo's security guards," he said, "which interviewed Potter right after the attack. Potter claimed that he and the Longbottom boy managed to fight off Rodolphus's initial attack, and the Death Eaters portkeyed out before the guards could arrive. If Rodolphus and his team are hurt, it is possible that they've retreated to a hidden location to tend to their injuries. I'm sure they've not ignored your summons intentionally master."

"Do not presume to know the intentions of others, Lucius," Voldemort whispered coldly. "Already you have been charged with finding Avery and the others who've gone missing. For your sake, I hope Rodolphus and his team have not joined with them. I do not tolerate deserters Lucius, and I'm beginning to loose patience with your excuses."

"Yes, my Lord." Lucius knew when to cut his losses. Any further arguing would be a sign of weakness.

"We will wait another two days to hear from Rodolphus and his men, and I hope your speculations prove true. Rodolphus has remained one of my most loyal Death Eaters over the years, and I refuse to believe he would abandon us know. But if he has," Voldemort paused and hissed a threat to Nagini that made Luciu's skin crawl. "If he has, he'll wish I never freed him from Azkaban at all, and left him to rot."

"Very well my Lord. Any other commands?"

"What progress have you made in tracking down the deserters since our last meeting?" To emphasize his point, Voldemort leveled his wand in a threatening manner. "And Lucius, do not exaggerate your failings."

Glad that his face was hidden behind a mask, Lucius drew up every ounce of Malfoy nerve just so he sounded normal.

"There's no news to exaggerate, my Lord. I've contacted every sympathetic ear in the British Isles, and even a few of our allies abroad. Not one person has seen or heard from Avery, Goyle, Crabbe, the Parkers, or the others. It's as if they just walked off the face of the earth, my Lord. If I had to guess, I'd say they're either dead or living among the muggles." Lucius shuddered at the thought, and his disgust showed through the mask.

"Then that shall be the next place you look, Lucius. You shall not rest until you find them. If they have died, then they'll be honored as they have died well in the service of their master. And if they've run, then they must be made an example of. We may be made to rule this world Lucius, but muggles still have their uses. It is easy to hide amongst sheep, if you desire to blend in. So if you must visit the muggle world to rule out the possibility, then I expect you to be just as thorough as you'd normally be. When we next meet Lucius, you best have some news to report."

"Very well Lucuis, you may go. But do send in some of the new recruits. My temper is starting to flare again, and I need something to curse."

Lucius Malfoy left Voldemort's throne chambers as quickly as possible after being dismissed. Five unfortunate souls got sent in for an undeserved lesson in pain, but as long as it wasn't him, Lucuis didn't care. While his master had spoken calmly for most of his meeting, underneath it all, Lucius knew he was brimming with anger. Yet again he'd made an attempt to capture Harry Potter, and yet again he had failed. It made him look foolish and weak in front of his subordinates, and that was something that Lucius was starting to heavily dislike. The more angry and upset Voldemort got, the more his troops suffered for it. Lucius knew he had better fond out some information on the missing Death Eaters, or next time he wouldn't be asked to send new recruits in the room after him. Next time they met; Lucius would have to pay himself!

---

The next morning when Harry woke up, he was still sore and tired, but overall very pleased with himself. He'd been witness to part's of Voldemort's meeting the night before, but for some reason it lacked the vivid clarity his visions had had lately. Harry wondered if it was because of his injury or his lack of Occlumency practice. Remembering that he'd been injured around Halloween as well, he thought Occlumency the most likely answer.

By not practicing his exercises before going to bed, Harry wasn't as in touch with his own mind as he normally was. And while the short reprieve from the tedious exercises was enjoyable, Harry realized that it of course had its down sides after all. He was less aware of outside intruding forces in his mind, and if he were to come under a direct Legilimency attack, he'd be unable to prevent the attacker from seeing his memories from the past two weeks. Ever since he stopped practicing, all his days' events were automatically sorted in his outside mind sphere. And because while setting up a physical representation of his mind, Harry had ignored that set of shields, but instead worked on strengthening his inside set, there was no way Harry could guarantee that he could fight off an attack. Hesitantly, Harry knew that the experiment had run its course, and Harry had better spend the next night going over all that had happened to him the past two weeks. Before his meeting with Dumbledore the next day, Harry wanted to make sure his mind was in proper order, in case the old coot wanted to try something.

After a quick shower and dressing in comfortable jeans and a jumper, Harry made his way to the kitchen where already Dobby and Winky had every inch of counter space covered in mixing bowls, serving platters, cutting boards, and mountains of food. They had done most of the prep work ahead of time, but left all the cooking to be done that morning. Harry wasn't expecting the Weasleys and Grangers till about noon, and the meal wouldn't be until four or so. Looking at his watch, Harry saw that the elves had a little under seven hours to get everything ready.

Normally a meal with seven hours of cook time, not to mention a week of preparation, wouldn't even phase an elf, let alone two. But Harry had heard their proposed menu, and even with the time they had, he thought it might be a close call. Cooking for the Weasleys meant they had to cook practically double what a normal person would eat. Remus also had a voracious appetite as a werewolf, as he could pack enough away for three people as well. Harry knew the Grangers were both dentists, and might not partake in the desserts, but he had no clue about their normal eating habits. Most likely they'd be like Hermione, and chose a light but balanced selection. Harry had only met them briefly once before his second year, and of all the guests, was looking forward to getting to know them better.

And as much as he tried to deny it, Harry was also excited to see one other specific person; Ginny. He'd worked hard on choosing a gift for her, and thought she'd love it. The thought of bringing a smile to her face warmed Harry as well, and before he could wonder why too much, he switched focus to the other Weasleys.

Fred and George were always a hoot to have around; Harry just wanted to make sure they behaved themselves. In the past during large meals they were always a handful, and always managed to prank someone at the table with one of their inventions. Harry didn't mind a little harmless fun, but he didn't want Neville to get picked on (he'd always been a favorite test subject for them), or his house to be destroyed. No offense to the Weasleys or anything, but he'd taken a lot of pride in making every single piece of furniture, and doing his own decoration. If the Weasley twins thought they'd be able to have free reign in his home, and turn it to look like the Burrow (with its crooked walls and lopsided roof), they had another thing coming.

Ron was just Ron, and Harry knew he'd enjoy his best friend's company no matter what. He was especially looking forward to showing Ron the telly and muggle room. Games had always been a big part of Ron's life, and for once, Harry though he might have the upper hand when playing against him. Ron would no doubt also find interest in the Christmas tree, or rather its decorations. Besides the ornaments and lights, Harry had hung plenty of candy canes in different colors and flavors. Once Ron discovered those, Harry thought he might eat every last one.

Mrs. Weasley would no doubt want to help with the cooking and cleaning, but Harry already promised himself that he wouldn't let her. He'd gone into town days before and had stocked up his bar for the first time. It was all muggle beverages and alcohol except for the keg of butterbeer, but it would get the job done. And even if he had to serve Mrs. Weasley more brandy than his Aunt Marge drank, he'd get her to relax somehow or another.

And of course Mr. Weasley would be trying to disassemble his home; fascinated with all the muggle appliances. Harry wondered if he'd ever even been in a muggle home before, and seen some of the things everyone else took for granted. With his huge collection of plugs, did he even know they needed to be plugged into an outlet? Well, Harry planned to show him, but also keep an eye out. The last thing he needed was for an eccentric wizard to rewire his home.

"Moring Harry," Neville greeted him at the table. "The elves weren't even offering to cook some breakfast this morning, and I don't want to get in their way, so I just had some cereal. I think there's some left in the pantry."

"Thanks, Nev. Cereal sounds fine. Honestly, I was thinking about skipping breakfast all together today. Merlin knows that's the only way I'd manage to keep up with Ron tonight. Know where Remus is at?"

"Remus went out for a bit, but said he'll be back before noon. Something about a short Order meeting about the attacks yesterday."

"Thanks." With a quick look to the pantry; blocked by one of Winky's culinary creations; Harry decided to forgo the cereal and just wait for the main meal. He still had a few more things to do before collecting his guests, and wanted to make sure he had it all ready.

All the rooms had been cleaned the night before, but Harry had to mop up some dried blood on the floor of his bathroom as the elves were currently occupied. Harry also made sure that anything he'd left out that he didn't want the others to see got packed away in his trunk. His pensieve for instance, which normally was left out on a library study table, would be asking too much restraint from some of the Weasleys. Remus and Neville had respected his privacy, but dealing with the red headed family wasn't the same. Even Harry himself had taken a look at Snape's memories without permission, and would be tempted to look at a friend's if a pensieve was just left lying around. Funny really, that Harry could trust Neville and Remus more than he would even trust himself.

A few potions vials were left out as well from the night before, and Harry hid those while taking another batch to deal with any lingering pain. His shoulder was completely mobile, but did ache when he stretched it above his head. The hole in his leg (the icicle had pierced his dragon-hide pants, but had been slowed down by it) was healed, but had left a small scar. Another few days and a restorative potion would erase that though. And the cut on his arm had been closed shut by just a few of Hedwig's tears. Made by a cutting curse, it didn't leave any magical residue behind, and therefore was able to heal right away.

The only injuries he had really been worried about were those to his face and torso, suffered from the physical beating he took. If any of his injuries still showed, then the Weasle6s would know something had happened. His ribs were still tender from their assault, but Hedwig had gotten rid of his black eyes and split lip nicely. His nose had been set back in place after being broken, and only a medical professional would see any difference. Harry thought he might have a slight bump in remembrance of the past day, but worse things could have happened.

The last thing he really had to do was set up portkeys for the Weasleys and Grangers, and finish wrapping his gifts. Weeks ago when setting up the visit, the Weasleys had suggested holding off on exchanging gifts with each other until they met. Ron had been against it naturally ("You mean I have to wait a whole extra day?"), but everyone else didn't mind. Hermione had agreed as well, and Neville and Harry were easy to convince. Harry would have to wait even longer for some other ones. Because of the wards on his home, any gift Hagrid or someone else might send wouldn't be able to find him. They'd most likely be waiting for him once he returned to Hogwarts, and Harry knew he'd have some explaining to do. He'd gotten some gifts for some of the D.A. members and fellow Gryffindors, and suspected he might get some gifts in return. He only hoped people wouldn't be too terribly upset by not being able to reach him.

The portkeys wouldn't take long to create; and Harry had already conjured what they'd be made out of; so Harry gathered his gifts from his closet, and made his way to the muggle room where there was a nice wide table he could use. Harry may not be any good at billiards, but at least the pool table would be useful.

"Hey Harry, wrapping gifts too?" Apparently Neville had similar ideas, and was using the ping pong table as his workspace. Both boys had seen what they'd gotten their other friends already, so Harry wasn't worried about seeing something he shouldn't. He had personally wrapped Neville's gift days ago, and it was already under the tree. Hopefully Neville had done the same.

"Yeah Neville. Just haven't had time enough these past few days. I've only got a few left though. Mr. Weasley's gifts can't be wrapped, and you already know that Ginny's can't be either. Yours I did days ago, and the Grangers are already taken care of. That only leaves Ron and the twins."

"Did you get any gifts for anyone else this year?" Neville asked.

"Well," Harry said, "I did get Luna something nice, and a small something for a lot of the D.A. members. I got Seamus these cool muggle candies with rum in the middle, and I got Dean some team rugby shirts. I hope they like them. Lav and Parvati I had no idea what to get, so I just bought them gift certificates to Gladrags. They should be pleased though. And something for Hagrid of course, but that's about it."

"Sounds like everyone, mate," Neville replied. "I sent some extras out as well. You know, I think I'll have more gifts this year than any other before. It's my happiest Christmas too. I've got my parents with me, and more friends than I ever though I'd have. I really appreciate all you've down for me this year Harry."

Harry was smiling, but getting uncomfortable. Neville had been thanking him incessantly since the offer to let his parents live with them. It was getting a little old.

"No worried, Nev. You deserve to be happy; more than most people do. I'm just glad I get to see it. Now how about we finish up here, and then some last minute decorating? I looked up some new charms we could use that sound like fun."

"Cool!"

And so each boy finished wrapping the few gifts they had left to do, and placed them under the tree together. There were already over thirty gifts there, and with the addition the Weasleys and Grangers would make, Harry wondered if they even had enough room.

The new charms Harry had learned were quick and simple to perform, and only took ten minutes to cast about the Hideaway. One charm frosted the insulated windows which normally wouldn't frost over, and another one conjured snow in the living room area. The magical snow looked very nice, and added a lot to the holiday cheer, yet didn't make the floors cold or wet. The magic prevented the snow from melting, and once the charm had run for fifteen minutes, all the snow disappeared and didn't leave a trace. Harry had just wanted to test the charm before the Weasleys arrived, and thought it would be a nice touch while opening gifts.

After that, there was only one hour left until Harry had to be on his way, and he mostly just bothered Dobby and Winky in the kitchen; trying to lend a hand. Neville had decided to spend the time with his parents, and Reums had returned back only minutes before Harry was getting ready to leave. He had done some last minute shopping himself, and had a huge wrapped package in his hands that he tried hiding behind his back from Harry. That alone tempted him to use his x-ray vision to see through the wrapping paper (Remus had really been impressed that Harry had a magical lens), but in the end he managed to restrain himself. Still, Remus took no chances, and didn't place the obvious gift under the tree. Instead it went with him to his bedroom, and when he returned, Remus refused to give a single hint about what it was, or who it was for.

Remus wanted to get a quick shower in before the guests arrived, so left Harry to himself in the entry hall. Harry didn't mind though, and after one last look around, collected his made portkeys and stepped towards the fireplace.

Grabbing a pinch of floo powder from the humidor Harry kept it in, he called out "The Burrow," and stepped inside. Green flames wrapped themselves around him, and a moment later, Harry landed gracefully in the Burrow's kitchen. Once again, he'd managed to stay standing. Not that it mattered though, for an instant after he arrived, Molly Weasley enveloped him in a smothering hug.

"Oh Harry, how wonderful to see you! Happy Christmas! How have your holidays been so far?"

"Great Mrs. Weasley," Harry managed to get out. "Neville and I have been having a grand time together, but we couldn't wait until today came. I've been looking forward to this for months."

"So have we, dear. Ever since we learned you were living on your own, I've been stricken with worry about how you've been taking care of yourself. I just hope you've had enough sense to eat proper meals and do some cleaning. Living like a bachelor might be fun, but it's no way to run a household."

"You mean Ron hasn't told you about Dobby and Winky?" Harry asked, surprised. "I've had two house-elves living with me since before I even moved to my new home. They take very good care of me, and you'll get the chance to meet them later. I'm sure you'll approve."

"Really? House-elves? I wonder why Ron hasn't said anything? Well, everyone else is in the living room, so why don't we join them. Do we have time for a quick snack or cup of tea before we leave?"

Looking at his watch, Harry already knew he preferred to move along as quickly as possible. "I don't think so Mrs. Weasley. I told Hermione she could expect me to gather her and her parents soon, and I'd rather be early than late. Knowing Ron and the twins, we'll be cutting it close as it is. We better get everyone together."

"Alright then. You go find everyone, and I'll be along shortly. Arthur's fiddling in his tool shed, and I'll go get him. We'll meet you back here in the kitchen."

Mrs. Weasley made right for the kitchen door, so Harry led himself through the short hall into the Burrow's large living room. Ron and Ginny were playing a game of chess on the couch, and the twins were huddled together in a back corner riffling through a bag of sweets. Harry smiled as they were the first ones to notice him.

"Harry old chum! How smashing to see you. Looking dashing as always, don't you agree Ginny? How have you been?"

The twins had spoken so fast, that Harry just barely managed to understand that they greeted him, and he returned a hello. Ron and Ginny smiled and waved from the couch, but didn't get up as they were both immersed in the game.

"Don't interrupt them just yet Harry," he thought Fred said to him.

The other twin continued. "Ginny's come very close to beating Ron, and we've got money on the game. Want to place any wagers?"

Taking a look at the board, Harry knew that Ron was in trouble. He'd already lost his queen and half his pawns, not to mention a rook and both bishops. Ginny had lost both her bishops as well, and a knight, but otherwise still had all her important pieces. Harry couldn't see any type of plan or trap laid out, but he wasn't very good at chess. Still, based on their pieces alone, it would be hard for Ron to make a come back and win.

"I'll put two galleons on Ginny," Harry told the twins.

Ginny giggled from the couch, while Ron blustered and shot an angry look at Harry.

"Hey," he yelled, "you're supposed to be supporting me; you're my best mate!"

"Sorry Ron," Harry teased, "but it looks like Ginny's got you beat this time."

"You bet your arse I do," Ginny mumbled. Then she made another move, which caused her to smile and Ron to grimace, and their attention was suddenly back on the game.

"All ready to leave? Got all your things?" Harry was talking to the twins again, who had come over from the corner to entertain their guest.

"Yeah, Mum made us get ready last night. Something about not wanting to be late. Don't know what she was talking about, though? I mean, it's only you we're going to see. Not like you'll care if we don't leave right on time."

"Actually, I'm glad your mum got you ready," Harry said, "because we do have to leave on time. We've got to pick up Hermione and her parents in about ten minutes, and you know how Hermione is about punctuality."

George laughed at the thought, and did a very Hermione-like impression with a high pitched voice. "Ronald Weasley! You stop playing chess this instant and go get your bags. Honestly! If you have so much free time, you should be spending it doing your homework. We're going to be late now!"

"Not now, 'Mione," Ron grumbled. Ginny laughed at him, and only then did he turn to look at George, and realize his mistake. "George, quit playing games. Don't scare me like that. I'm trying to concentrate over here!"

""You're the one playing games, dear brother of ours," Fred said.

Anymore bickering was stopped though as Mr. and Mrs. Weasley joined them in the living room. They were both dressed in heavy cloaks, as if they expected they'd need to walk outside in the weather.

"You won't need your cloaks, Mrs. Weasley. We can go right to Hermione's from here."

"Ahh, alright I suppose," she said, as she and her husband removed their cloaks. "Are you sure though Harry? I'd hate to be caught out in the cold without my cloak."

"I'm sure. Is this everybody then? We'd better leave soon."

"Who else did you expect?" Ron asked from the couch.

Ginny though, obviously knowing what Harry was thinking, answered his questions. "Bill and Charlie both visited yesterday, but couldn't stay, as they had to get back to work. And as for Percy, well..."

"Percy was invited home for the holidays, but chose to spend it with the Clearwaters instead." Mr. Weasley sounded uncharacteristically harsh when he said that, and Harry looked around the room at everyone else's faces. Only Ginny met his gaze, and she mouthed the word "later" to him.

"Well then, I guess we can leave," Harry broke the silence.

"Can't it wait, Harry?" Ginny asked. "If we leave now, I won't get to beat Ron."

"Why don't you just leave the board for later?" Harry wondered.

Ron laughed at that one. "You can't do that, Harry! Left unattended, the pieces would destroy each other. Whoever heard of leaving a chess game unfinished? But if there's no time, I guess we'll just have to call it a draw. Too bad Ginny; better luck next time!"

"Ron, stop teasing you sister," Mrs. Weasley admonished. She wasn't even looking their way, but instead checking through a large group of bags that had been packed and set against a wall. Ron and Ginny must fight so much, that she was just used to intervening.

"Why not just count up the points?" Harry asked. Ginny looked perplexed, and Harry winked at her to let her know he was on her side.

"What points?" Ron inquired.

"Well," Harry explained, "with muggle chess, the pieces don't move, so it's not uncommon to leave games unfinished. In fact sometimes, people can go days or weeks while still playing the same game. They work out each and every possible move before making a decision. But sometimes there's timed tournaments, where people don't get to finish a game. In those cases, the judges just count up points to see who wins. I'm surprised you haven't heard of it."

"Play the same game of chess for weeks? Trust muggles to go and ruin a perfectly good game."

"Hey Malfoy," Harry was disappointed in his friend, "I'd keep quiet if I were you. Muggles invented chess as you know, and I bet in their opinion it's wizards who have messed with it. Moving pieces and all take some skill out of the game. That's why I like my muggle set so much more."

"Sorry Harry;" Ron said, "meant no offense." Being called a Malfoy was a big insult to him, and Ron didn't like the comparison one bit. At least he saw how condescending he had been.

"So who's got more points, Harry?" Even the twins had come over to look.

So Harry explained the scoring system; how each pawn was worth one point, how bishops and knights were worth three, rooks were worth five, and how queens and kings were worth the most. Without Ron's queen though, he didn't stand a chance. Ginny had eleven more points then him, and she was thrilled that she could now claim she'd beaten Ron in a game. Ron mumbled about crazy rules, but was too excited about soon opening more gifts to complain much.

"Everyone to the kitchen, then," Mrs. Weasley demanded. "We'll be leaving if that silly game's all settled with."

"Why not just leave from here?" Harry asked.

"This fireplace isn't hooked up to the floo network, Harry," Ron said. "You know that."

"We're not taking the floo." With a puzzled look from the others, Harry pulled out a small ring from his back pocket. It was the portkey he'd conjured and made earlier, and had shrunk to fit while he traveled. "Fred, give me a hand and enlarge this, will you?"

The Weasley parents looked like they wanted to argue, but Fred waved his wand over the ring and called out an Engorgio spell before they could protest. A large circular hoop appeared in its place; red in color.

"I thought we were traveling by floo?" Mrs. Weasley asked. "How on earth did you get approved for a portkey during the holidays, Harry? They're notoriously difficult to arrange with the Ministry."

"Don't worry about it Mrs. Weasley. I've been planning this trip for a long time now. I'm sure Dumbledore's informed you about our difference of opinions, and I'm just showing him that I can be responsible and concerned with my own safety for a change. Frankly, I'm surprised he's not here to try and stop me."

The twins cracked up at that, and Mrs. Weasley had a blush on her face. Harry turned to look at her, and after a small nudge from her husband, she went to explain.

"I'm sorry Harry, but he was here this morning. He heard about our planned trip, and dropped by to see if I'd allow him to place a tracking charm on something. He wanted to follow you home, but after Ron and Ginny explained to me some of what's happened between you, and after hearing that you were very well taken care of from Remus, I told him I wouldn't allow it. I actually had to yell at him to leave. I was so embarrassed."

"It was like Dumbledore got a howler in person, mate," the twins called out. "It was brilliant! I think Dumbledore was more upset with our Mum than he's ever been with either of us."

Mr. Weasley shook a finger at his sons, and said, "Hush you two; that's enough of that. Professor Dumbledore is under a lot of strain, as you very well know after yesterday. The last thing he needs is for you two to be making fun of him."

"Yesterday?" Harry asked. Directing his question back to the twins, he inquired, "Were you two on patrol yesterday as well? Where'd you end up? Did you capture any Death Eaters?"

"What patrol?," Ron demanded. "What did go on yesterday? Nobody will tell me!"

"It's Order business Ron, and it's not for you to know," Mrs. Weasley tried to placate her son.

"But Harry knows," he argued.

"Well, that's because Harry was involved. But I'll have no more talk about that nasty business now. We're late as it is, and I need to grab a few more things. Everyone else get around the portkey. We'll leave soon."

As Mrs. Weasley disappeared into the kitchen again, Harry promised Ron he'd fill him in when they had some time alone. Harry would at least tell Ron the same story he had told the St. Mungo's security guards, and about the letter he had written Dumbledore and the Minister. The rest though would be kept under wraps. Harry also made Ron promise to not bring the subject up again. Harry had no idea how much Hermione's parents had been told about the danger of Voldemort and his goons, and Harry didn't want Ron to breach the subject unaware. If it were up to him, Harry would make sure the rest of the day was spent doing nothing but eating, drinking, unwrapping gifts, and having a good time. News of Voldemort and his attacks could wait until another day.

It wasn't long before Mrs. Weasley returned with parcels of wrapped cakes and pies. Apparently she hadn't managed to follow Harry's instructions to leave all the cooking to him, and Harry had to tell her point blank that there wasn't enough room with the portkey or on his dining room table for even more food. He assured her he'd made enough, and that her treats would keep under a freshness charm in the Burrow's kitchen. She worried about the food going to waste, but all it took was Harry pointing to Ron just once before those fears were put aside. Ron wouldn't let any dessert go to waste, and within the next two days, he'd be sure to finish them all off.

And so with a look around with his x-ray lens to make sure no one was catching a ride with the portkey that wasn't supposed to, Harry also made sure they all had a good hold on the hoop, and that the gifts and bags they had with them were in hand as well. Then with a spoken "activate" the portkey engaged, and all six Weasleys plus Harry felt a pull behind their navels, and were whisked away.

Less than a minute later they arrived in the kitchen of the Grangers' home, where Harry had sent a note with Hedwig that morning warning Hermione of their arrival. Ron and the twins all fell down in a tangled heap, but everyone else (Harry included!) managed to stay on their feet after the bumpy ride. Harry hadn't ever before created a portkey with enough power for so many people, and it was a learning experience just as much as anything else.

"Oh my," was the first thing Harry heard. Turning to look, he found out why. Dr. Granger, Hermione's mum, was off to the side, and had apparently witnessed the group's arrival. Not used to magic being performed anywhere around her, she must have been shocked and a little overwhelmed by their sudden appearance.

"Relax Mum; I told you they'd just pop up," Hermione chided her. "Happy Christmas everyone!"

While Ron and the twins picked themselves up off the ground, Harry, Ginny, and Mrs. Weasley made their way over to greet the Grangers. By then Hermione's dad had joined them in the kitchen, and was looking a bit nervously at Mr. Weasley, who was exploring the kitchen cabinets. Hermione must have informed her parents about his strange muggle hobby, and Harry just had to grin.

Mrs. Weasley must have noticed Dr. Granger's anxious looks as well, because she followed his line of vision to her husband, and tisked as she saw him riffling through their things.

"Arthur dear, come away from there and say hi to John and Emily."

He sheepishly looked ashamed at being caught, but joined them without pause.

"Don't worry Mr. Weasley," Harry told him. "I'll make sure you have enough to go check out at my home to keep you occupied." Mr. Weasley's face brightened considerably at that, and the group had a good laugh.

"Dr. Granger, Dr. Granger; nice to see you again," Harry greeted Hermione's parents warmly.

"You as well, Harry," the female Dr. Granger said. "We've heard so much about you over the years, it'll be nice to finally get to know you and Ron a little better. And thank you for the invitation to join you today; that was very kind. But please, call us Mr. and Mrs. Granger. Having two doctors in the family is always a bit confusing."

They seemed very pleasant, and introductions were made all around in short order. Mrs. Granger offered them all a drink, but Harry informed them all that he had drinks and appetizers waiting for everyone, and he'd like to get everyone moving. It was almost one already, and the afternoon was dwindling away.

So by taking another small ring out of his back pocket; this time yellow; Harry made his way over to the twins and said, "Fred, if you'll do the honors?" Harry could have enlarged the portkey himself, but the Weasleys didn't know he could do magic out of school, and he preferred to keep it that way.

"A hula hoop?" Mr. Granger asked. "What on earth do you have a hula hoop for?"

"It's the perfect shape and size for a portkey," Harry explained. Then he briefly had to explain what a portkey was, and that that was how they were getting to his home. Hermione looked impressed that Harry had been approved by the Ministry, and the Weasley parents looked ever more so as it was Harry's second portkey of the day.

"What's a hula hoop?" Ron asked though. It sufficiently distracted attention away from the portkey issue, and Harry once again had to explain.

"It's a muggle game, Ron. You spin these hoops around your waist, and see how long you can keep them going. Maybe Hermione will show you later?"

Ginny poked a harrumphing Hermione in the side as she starred incredulously at Harry; shocked that he had said such a thing. Both sets of parents though enjoyed matching blushes on their children, until the Grangers left to gather their things. They didn't have nearly as many bags as the Weasleys did, but the small addition would still make the portkey ride a full one.

After much rearranging and trading of packages, Harry finally managed to make sure everyone had a handgrip on the hoop. It was a good thing Harry had chosen such a wide object, or else not everybody would have fit. When they were all ready, Harry warned them all to keep hold and stay still. He also explained briefly to the Grangers what they were about to feel, so they knew what to expect. This time the activation word was "eclipse," but it worked just the same. Another pull behind their navels, and the group of ten were on their way.

The basement below his building was fast becoming a popular destination point for Harry's portkeys, and he enjoyed the look of confusion and disappointment on the others' faces as they got a look around. This time Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Mr. Granger, and Mr. Weasley had all fallen down. What was even funnier though, was when Hermione turned to him and asked, "Harry, please don't tell me you live in a muggle basement?"

The others thought him crazy when he burst out laughing; reminded of when Remus had asked the same question. That night had really gone well though, and Harry enjoyed Remus's reactions. Now he only hoped the others would be as amused.

"No Hermione, I don't live in a basement," he comforted her when he regained his composure. "Sorry about that, it's just you're not the first person to ask. Anyway, I live a few floors up. It's just because of the wards that we couldn't portkey straight in. I could, but that's because I've been there before. You'll understand in a second. Everyone have all their things?"

A few bags had fallen out of arms with the jolting arrival, but they got picked up quickly, as everyone was eager to leave the basement. Not that it was dirty or anything, it just wasn't a comfortable environment.

Harry had already pressed the button to call the lift down, and made another request of the twins to magically expand the space within when it arrived. They did so without complaint, and Harry and the Grangers were the first to enter. The Weasleys looked apprehensive to join them, but it was Ron who took the brave first step in. He'd heard of muggle lifts from Hermione when they were at the Ministry the year before, and knew it was supposed to be safe. The rest joined him (Fred and George were jumping up and down in it before their mum yelled at them to stop), and eventually the doors closed behind them.

"What floor, Harry?" Mr. Granger asked. He was standing next to the bank of buttons, and had his hand hovering above them.

"Thirteen, sir." His curiosity piqued, Harry wanted to know if such a short answer would dispel the Fidelius.

Mr. Granger right away went to push the button, only to pause a moment later when he couldn't find it. Then turning back to face Harry, he said, "No thirteen, Harry. Do you mean the fourteenth floor?"

"No, Mr. Granger, you must have missed the button. I, Harry Potter, live on the thirteenth floor."

Mr. Granger gave him a weird look, but turned again to take a quick peak, and did a double take when he swore he saw a button appear out of nowhere. Just thinking it was another quirk of magic, he didn't give it another thought, and pushed the button. Hermione however had been watching her father, and caught the button's appearance. For a second she looked up at Harry in confusion, and then when he smiled at her, it dawned!

"Harry," she whispered, "you couldn't of..."

"Again Hermione," Harry had fun replying, "you're just repeating Remus."

The others were all looking at him confused about what was going on, and Harry took a deep breath to explain what had happened.

"As Hermione just figured out, my home is protected under a Fidelius Charm; just like Order headquarters. I'm my own secret keeper, and when I said 'Harry Potter lives on the thirteenth floor,' I told you the location. It doesn't matter you don't know where this building is, as long as you're in it. That's why we couldn't portkey or floo in, but had to come to the basement instead. Mr. and Mrs. Granger, I'm sure Hermione will explain the charm to you in more detail later. For now, just know that it's very advanced and secure, and there are very few security precaution I could have taken that would be safer."

Turning to the Weasleys now, Harry said, "And I hope now you're satisfied that I've taken measures to be careful. That's why you and the Order couldn't find me this summer; because I didn't want to be found. Remus has known of course, and now you do too. And even though I know you can't tell Dumbledore where I am because you're not my secret keeper, please don't tell him anything. He hasn't earned my trust yet, and I'll tell him what I want him to know when I feel the time is right."

Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were busy arguing quietly among themselves, but otherwise the rest of the short trip was made in silence. Harry didn't mind, as he knew the second the doors opened up to his Hideaway, the questions and comments would come flooding in.

And boy, was he right.

"Holly shit!" Either Fred or George said.

'George! Watch your language!"

"Sorry, Mum. But really, take a look around."

Harry laughed. "Thanks George, I think. Again, it's been said before though. Neville had the same response."

"A very nice place you seem to have here, Harry," Mrs. Granger said. Then turning to look at Hermione, who bashfully looked away, she continued, "We were led to believe that you weren't being taken well care of."

"Oh," Harry realized, "that was where I used to live. Sorry about the confusion. I just moved in here this past July. I used to live with my relatives, and they were horrible. You probably heard about them from Hermione."

Harry didn't have time to get a response though, because Mrs. Weasley had pushed her way forward and grabbed Harry by the shoulders.

"Harry, is this for real? All this time we were worried about you living on the streets or in a rat infested flat, and you've been here in this...this...this palace?"

"It's hardly a palace, Mrs. Weasley," Harry calmly said. "When I found it, it was just four bare walls. It just took a lot of time to set up and decorate, is all. After living with the Dursleys for so long, I wanted a place I could call my own, and take pride in. I told you all not to worry about me, and that I'd be fine. Why else do you think I require not one, but two house-elves to work for me? They've got their work cut out for them with this place to maintain."

Mrs. Weasley looked like she wanted to argue more, but her husband stopped her. "Molly dear, there's no point arguing any further. We've known now for quite some time that Harry has been following his own council, and at least now we know he's been safe and comfortably cared for. Our sons however, have disappeared, and will dismantle this house and plant exploding goodies unless we find them."

Mrs. Weasley didn't deflate at all at her husband's warning, but did turn her attention away from Harry. At the mention of her sons' meddling, she didn't even have to ask which ones they were. "Fred! George! Get back in here at once," she yelled out.

A second later the twins emerged from the east wing hallway, with Neville guiding them with a hand on each of their shoulders. "No need to shout Mum, we weren't up to anything wrong."

"Ha," Neville laughed. "That is, only if you count trying to sneak a drink of whiskey as nothing wrong. I caught them in the muggle room, Harry, raiding your bar. It feels good to catch them for once. I owe them for all the times I got turned into a canary I expect."

"Thanks Neville. Let me have those two for a sec. Why don't you introduce around?" Remus had come out from his room as well at the noise, and was engaging Hermione's parents with light conversation. They looked thrilled to meet one of Hermione's former professors, and Harry knew he could spare a few minutes to try and talk some sense into the twins.

"Listen you two," he said quietly when they were far enough away from the others. "I don't mind a joke or two, but promise me, no pranks or trouble tonight. I was even thinking about taking away your wands, but Remus convinced me you wouldn't go for that."

"Not for a million galleons, Harry. Trying to take away a man's wand is like trying to cut off his, well, his other wand."

"I know," Harry replied, "which is why I didn't ask you. But this is the Grangers first time around magic in years, and I don't want to spook them. I also don't want my house to collapse around me, so I'm warning you now. No pranks, gags, new inventions, or else I'm not giving you all your Christmas gifts."

"Harry," George put his hand to his chest in an overly dramatized gesture, "you wound us to think so little of our intentions.

"But you're absolutely right," Fred added on. "But blackmailing us with our Christmas gifts to behave nicely?"

"Pure genius!" The both chimed in. "You have our word we're on our best behavior. Ron's more fun to prank than you anyway."

"Good," Harry was relieved. "Then I promise to help you prank him as reward. You'll know what I mean in a few hours."

After that, they three returned to the rest and mingled. Mrs. Weasley was shocked at her sons' good behavior, and Harry wondered if she'd be pleased to know he'd resorted to blackmail and bribery to get them to do so or not. Didn't matter one way or the other as far as Harry was concerned though, because he just wanted everyone to have a nice time.

"Harry," Ron called out from across the room, "you said something about drinks and appetizers?"

And so Harry showed them to the muggle room where everyone helped themselves. Harry, Ginny, Hermione, and Neville all had butterbeer, and so did Ron after his mum caught him trying to sneak in something stronger. Fred and George were allowed liquor, though they weren't familiar with the muggle varieties Harry had gotten. Whiskey was close enough to what they knew by name though, and poured each other two fingers of Harry's finest. It didn't smoke their ears like they were used to, but it still made them cough, and after that they settled for drinking water.

The adults all had something different as well, and Remus had to assure the Grangers that Harry had just stocked the bar for that night, and didn't normally drink. Mrs. Granger didn't mind him having the occasional small sip though. She informed them that she'd been letting Hermione have small tastes of wine for two years now, when they were home alone and having a nice meal. Harry didn't have any wine, but the selection of brandies and coolers he'd gotten were good enough. Mr. Granger had thought butterbeer was more like its muggle counterpart, but was still pleased with the sweet drink.

The appetizers Harry had mentioned were set up back in the kitchen area, along the bar that separated it from the rest of the room. There was a nice spread of smoked salmon, oriental dumplings, vegetables dips, and some normal finger food like chicken strips and cocktail shrimp as well. It all looked very fancy, and Mrs. Granger was paying so much attention to the food that she nearly dropped her plate and screamed when she spotted "a deranged little person" behind the counter.

"No Mum," Hermione laughed, "that's just Dobby. He is a bit deranged, but he's a house-elf, not a little person. I told you about them, remember?"

"Oh yes," her dad said, "you're spew thingy."

"It's S.P.E.W. How many times do I have to tell you?"

Ron was snickering in his plate of food, and when Harry met his eyes, he couldn't help laughing either. Both of them had heard about S.P.E.W. endless times over the years, and it was very funny that her dad was making the same cracks that they had.

"Oh, stop it you two!"

Eventually they did, and the Grangers got to meet Dobby and Winky who had taken a short break to welcome everyone to "Mr. Harry Potter's most wonderfulness Hideaway!"

It took another few minutes to explain their quirky nature and strange way of talking, but after watching them in action for some minutes, Mrs. Granger especially was quite fascinated.

The kitchen had been cleaned much since Harry saw it last, as most of the food was in the ovens or already waiting in the icebox or warming cupboard. Still, the kitchen was right in the middle of the action, so Harry suggested the group retire to the muggle room to enjoy their food. All the Weasleys' and Grangers' gifts had already been placed under the tree, and Harry didn't want to tempt Ron or the others by sitting everyone so close.

"So Harry, how did you find this place?" Someone asked. Harry didn't mind repeating the story of how he'd been strolling the streets of London one day, and had eaten lunch at a Fish & Chips stand that had pointed him in the right direction.

And soon after that, he explained about how he'd thought up the idea of hiding an entire floor in the first place. Remus pointed out that Harry had been making anonymous donations to the building's owner to pay his share, and after hearing that, the Grangers' faces (Hermione's most of all) relaxed and enjoyed the rest of the story.

Each got up for a few refills of drinks, some more food, and before he knew it, Harry looked at his watch, and it was already past two.

"How about a tour?" He asked the group. Only Ron and Fred were still picking at their plates, but even they had had enough to put them down. Their mum had been constantly reminding them that a full meal wasn't too far ahead, and that they shouldn't fill themselves. Knowing Ron, Harry wasn't worried.

The tour started in the east wing since they were already in the muggle room, and Harry explained all the objects to the Weasleys. Mr. Granger surprised them all by claiming to be very good at pool, and he promised to play a few games after dinner. Apparently he had played in pool halls while in uni, and had even hustled some when he needed money. "That was a lifetime ago, though." Hermione looked the most surprised of them all.

Once he tore Mr. Weasley away from the telly (Hermione had accidentally turned it on; silly girl), he escorted the group through the doors to his suite next. Ginny was ecstatic to see it was an almost identical copy of his trunk's quarters, and Harry allowed her to give them a min-tour of the bedroom, closet, and en suite bath. Of course this brought up a whole new line of questions about how Ginny was so familiar with Harry's bedroom chambers, but a quick explanation of his trunk answered those without further embarrassment.

Harry skipped the Longbottom's flat completely, saying the space was just empty, and nothing was in there. Remus and Neville shared a look between them, but didn't mention a word. It was still undecided how they'd handle every detail involving Neville's parents, but those decisions could wait for another day.

Ron tried to push the door open anyway for a look, but it was locked thanks to Remus, and without a wand, Ron couldn't get in.

The storage room was cramped and disorderly, and perhaps Mr. Weasley's favorite room so far. It reminded him of his tool shed he said, and he was still smiling when his wife forced him to shut the door.

Neville explained the dueling platform and exercise room to give Harry a break, and demonstrated some of the equipment for those who didn't know what they did. Mr. Weasley recognized the practice dummies from a long ago popular company, and promised to tell Harry more later. Mr. Granger recognized the name brand of the exercise equipment, and whistled at the price. "You've been ripped off," he told Harry. "There's equipment just as good on the market, but half the cost." For the first time Harry then noticed that Hermione's father was in good shape for a man his age. He must have worked out, and knew what he was talking about. They also agreed to talk more after diner.

Then they had to cross the library to get to the west wing, and Hermione and her mother's eyes lit up like Christmas trees. Harry could have sworn he heard Mr. Granger curse, "Good Lord, not again," under his breath, but wasn't sure. Either way they had to be torn away after five minutes, as the others had finished looking at Harry's collection. Again, Harry had hid the darker material before his guests' arrival.

The guest bedrooms were all shown quickly, except for the back two, which Harry claimed Neville and Remus were staying in. Remus was actually staying in one, and there was no reason to give away the fact that Neville had moved to another room.

The three empty rooms were also likewise briefly visited, and this time Harry didn't have to skip over any, as he'd gotten rid of the last remaining evidence of Wormtail's old cell.

The laundry was nothing special (except its size), and Hermione was excited to hear that Dobby had cleaned his and Winky's room, to show it off as well. Even Harry was interested to see inside it, as he hadn't the courage to ask before. Pleased though, he noted that they had kept the sock decor, as well as the single bed. Winky had added some frilly lace curtains and throw rugs, but overall it remained the same as when he'd decorated it.

Even Remus and Neville were taking a close look (they hadn't seen the room either), and had a good laugh over the sock theme.

"Laugh all you want," Harry told them. "It's not so funny when it's you racking your brains, trying to come up with one more original sock to paint on the wall. I spent an hour a day, for an entire week furnishing this room!" That comment led to a short history of how Harry had been introduced to Dobby and Winky, their history together, Dobby's fascination with socks, and how they'd become Harry's friends and employees.

And if Harry had anything to worry about how Hermione would view his treatment of the two small elves, just seeing their room and the pride they took at calling Harry their friend was enough to dissipate her fears, and therefore his. She was very proud of Harry, and must have learned something from that book he had leant her on her birthday. She even gave Harry a kiss on the check a little misty-eyed, and then ran behind Ginny with a blush when her parents had hooted and cat called after witnessing the display of affection.

Ron wasn't hooting at Hermione though. He was standing with his brothers, sulking.

The last part of the tour was just showing off his great room in detail, and with closer looks at the massive fireplace and living room area, the tour was completed. It was approaching three, and with only about an hour before dinner, Harry knew they better move on to the gifts. Noticing Ron's sour mood, he thought he'd try to cheer up his best friend some.

"Hey Ron, think it's time to open presents yet, mate?"

That immediately brought a smile to Ron's face, and he nodded enthusiastically. After that he nearly ran over to the tree, and the others followed behind. There were barely enough seats for all twelve of them, but they managed with some sharing. Mrs. Granger was sitting on her husband's lap in an armchair, and Ron, Ginny, Hermione, and Harry were all squeezed together on the same couch. Somehow Harry had landed between Hermione and Ginny, and he wasn't complaining one bit!

"Who's goes first?" Ginny asked.

Harry just shrugged his shoulders. "I've never done this before Gin, so I have no idea. How do you normally do this?"

"Well, we always have the youngest person open a present first," Mr. Granger said, "and then next oldest, and so on and so on. Once everybody's had a turn, then it's sort of a free for all."

"We usually just skip to the free for all part," Mr. Weasley joked back. "With six boys in the house, plus our rambunctious girl, it's hard enough just to get them to eat breakfast in the mornings, let alone open gifts in order. I think we can manage for the day though, right Fred? George? Ron?"

Fred and George were still on their best behavior, and Ron reluctantly agreed as well. He'd already been shaking a gift with his name on it, but placed it back under the tree at a glance from his mum.

"Sounds good," Harry agreed. "But let's do the Dobby and Winky's gifts first. They need to keep an eye on the oven, and I don't want to bother them right before dinner.

So Harry called his small friends over, and they bashfully accepted their few gifts.

Dobby got socks, of course, from Harry, Neville, and Remus. Harry's were the best naturally, both because they came from "the bestest wizard in the world," and because they were stripped every color of the rainbow, and had individual toes sewn on each foot. It was a novelty gag really, but Harry knew Dobby would love them the second he unwrapped them.

Ron had given Dobby two of his old Weasley jumpers that had shrunk in the wash, and Hermione had knitted him a scarf and mittens to match the hats she'd made the year before. The others hadn't thought to buy Dobby anything, but he was very pleased with what he got. It took a round of knee hugging and tearful thank you before he left again for the kitchen, wearing every single new article of clothing he'd received.

Winky had gotten even fewer gifts, as Ron didn't get her anything, but still so new to being treated equally, she didn't even seem to notice. Hermione had made her some lace aprons for around the kitchen, and Remus had gotten her some muggle cookbooks with recipes from her favorite television chefs.

Harry had bought Winky some nice new cooking pans and cleaning supplies (she liked them very much), but Neville's gift had been the best by far. Days ago she'd made an off-hand comment that she liked how "Mr. Harry Potter sir" had always smelled so nice (Harry had been wearing cologne), and Neville had picked up on it. For in his gift to her, Winky received nice perfume, potpourri, bath beads, fragrant soaps, and skin lotions. Neville said he wasn't sure if she'd like those things or not, and he could always exchange them for something else, but he didn't get an answer except Winky hugging his legs, too happy for words.

She too took some convincing to let go and return to the kitchen, but when she did, Ron threw a gift with Ginny's name at his sister, eager to get on with the presents.

"Who's this from," she asked while inspecting the box. It was from her parents, and Ginny was pleased to find a new Weasley jumper and some nice skirts. Unlike other years though the jumper was knitted of fine cashmere, and the skirts were not used, but brand new!

Harry was glad for his friend. It looked like the Weasleys had dipped into some of the money he'd given them, and treated their kids this year. Ron and the twins were bound to be happy as well.

Hermione was next in line, and opened a gift from Ron, to find some books, candy, and a small charm bracelet. The books and candy were impersonal, but at least he had scored some points with the jewelry. And while not nearly as nice as the sapphire pendant he still didn't know about, it was far better than the horrible bottle of perfume he'd gotten Hermione the year before. She had managed to "accidentally" drop that some time ago.

Ron opened his gifts from Harry next, and found a few things. A large collection of chocolate frogs and Bertie Botts, some dungbombs and wet start fireworks, and a small plain looking black case. Ron was thrilled with the candy and fireworks (Fred and George had complained about the dungbombs), but didn't know what to make of the black case. Only when he opened it up to find a Gringott's key and a short note, did he turn to look at Harry.

"I opened a Gringott's account for you," Harry explained. He could tell that Ron was about to get all huffy though, and interrupted before he could start. "This isn't charity or anything like that though, so don't think it is. Sirius left me all his money in his will, and the only condition was that I had to promise to spread the wealth around. So I got you, Ginny, Hermione, Neville, and Luna all your own Gringott's accounts. There're five hundred galleons in there to start, and you can save it or spend it however you like. The note is just for you though, so don't share that with anyone if you don't want."

Ron unfolded the note, and whopped for joy when he wrote what Harry had written. Ginny and the others begged to know what was on the small scrap of paper, and Ron didn't mind in the least to hand it over to his family.

Ginny read the note out loud.

---

Dear Ron,

I've deposited an additional five hundred galleons in your account, to save for a new broomstick. Whiggman will come out with his complete series this summer, and I don't know the cost for certain, but I do know that you'll be great on his keeper broom. If there's any money left over afterwards, enjoy it! The first five hundred galleons is more a gift from Sirius than me, and I figured I should get you more than candy and stink bombs for Christmas. Happy Holidays, mate!

Harry

---

Any anger Ron had been feeling was completely gone, and he actually got up and made his way to Harry, and did a Hagrid impersonation by thumping him on his back in thanks. Harry made mock cries, and said, "It's my turn now, so hand me a gift before I die over here."

Harry unwrapped his jumper and homemade fudge from the Weasleys next, and was very happy. Ginny had already put on her jumper (as she was the only other person to open one yet), so Harry decided to join her. When he pulled off his old one though, and put on the soft wool sweater, a familiar tug behind his navel alerted him that something was wrong.

When Harry had pulled the jumper up over his head, he'd still been sitting next to Ginny on the couch. When he pulled his head through the jumper's neck though, Harry found himself in a whole different place. He was now in the very familiar kitchen of number twelve Grimmauld Place, and he had an audience as well. Professor McGonagall, Snape, Hagrid, Mad-Eye, Tonks, and the manipulative bastard himself were all in attendance.

"Ah Harry, I see you opened you gift later than we expected," Dumbledore twinkled at him. Acting as if nothing was wrong further infuriated the young man.

"What did you do? How did I get here?" Harry demanded to know.

"Can't you begin to guess, Potter?" Snape sneered.

"Now Severus; that was uncalled for. Do you really want a repeat of what happened in my office earlier this year?"

Tonks snickered some at the reference, and Harry almost cracked a smile before he remembered he wasn't there to play games. He was there against his will.

"You turned my jumper into a portkey, didn't you?" Harry directed at Dumbledore. The Order might have been present, but this was clearly his plan.

"Yes Harry; set to activate once you put it on. If you'll remember, your first Christmas at Hogwarts I came upon you visiting a certain mirror. Even then you had been wearing Molly's find knit work, so I knew you'd put it on once you opened it. I'm sorry I had to resort to such drastic measures Harry, but I can't allow you to continue putting yourself at risk because we simply disagree. I only hope you will forgive me in the future."

"You've just made another huge mistake," Harry hissed. Turning to look at the others, he nodded briefly at Hagrid and McGonagall, pleased to see that they didn't look comfortable with the actions Dumbledore had taken. Tonks didn't know what to think, and if Harry had to guess, Mad-Eye was just enjoying the show.

In a merry and controlled voice, Harry greeted them by saying, "Happy Christmas to you all, and I'll see you back at school." Then Harry turned to face Dumbledore, and sneered. "I'll see you tomorrow at noon, and you had better have this place cleared out. If there was even the slightest chance to keep me from selling Grimmauld Place now, you just ruined it." Then without another word, Harry apparated away, leaving a room full of shocked adults.

"Albus, what just happened?" McGonagall asked.

It was Moody who had answered though. "That Minerva, was just Albus pissing off one already very pissed off young man. You really screwed the pooch this time, Albus." The he cackled his own personal laughter, and left the room. Damn, he was starting to like that Potter kid!

Harry arrived back at his Hideaway less than a minute after he left, and his appearance at first went unnoticed among all the screaming and confusion by the others. Harry actually had to raise sparks to get their attention, and then of course they all asked the same thing.

"What the bloody hell just happened to you?"

Harry retook his seat between Ginny and Hermione as he told mostly Remus and the Weasleys that Dumbledore had turned his jumper into a portkey, and had forced him to headquarters against his will. Remus shook his head in disappointment of his leader, and the Weasleys had mostly been shocked that Dumbledore had used them (or their gift, more literally) without their knowledge. Mrs. Weasley promised Harry that she'd have words with him the first opportunity she got, and at least Harry wasn't worried about her spilling any of his secrets soon. Dumbledore had just guaranteed that.

It was Mrs. Granger who asked the intelligent question of how he had returned, and Harry just explained that the had an emergency portkey on him at all times in case something similar happened. He didn't admit to apparating, and nobody knew the difference. And luckily, nobody thought to ask how he'd been approved for yet another portkey, clearly with a special intention in mind.

Neville opened his gift next (he and Harry had discovered he was a few hours older), and was pleased to see that Remus had gotten him a wand holster like Harry's. With all the practice they'd been doing the last few weeks, Neville couldn't wait to try it out. His was made of leather instead of dragon hide, but the quick-draw auror release still worked the same way.

Fred and George opened gifts from their parents, then the parents opened gifts from their kids, and then just like Mr. Weasley had promised, the gift opening became a free for all!

Harry got some books and journals from Hermione and her parents, as well as a fashionable pair of muggle sunglasses. Now that he didn't wear regular lens, he realized that for the first time he could wear the tinted shades.

Ginny had gotten him some new Quidditch pads and gear, and an unmarked bottle that had a small note that said he should bring it with him to their next "captain meeting." Reading though the code, Harry knew it had something to do with their massages, and he couldn't wait to find out what.

Neville had gotten him a large foe-glass for his home, and above the fireplace it looked great! Yes, there were some distinct figures in the background, but Harry knew he'd never be perfectly safe until Voldemort was dead.

And Ron had gotten Harry a bunch more sweets, and a small bronze cauldron as well. It was one of the few cauldron types he didn't already have, and was useful because although rarely used, it was required for certain seventh year potions. Harry had mentioned to Hermione that he planned to pick one up next summer, and knew she must have informed his other friend. Ron's only comment?

"I can't believe I got you Potions equipment for Christmas!"

Harry didn't see what everyone else was getting, but he made sure to see everyone's reaction to his gifts. Besides the Gringotts' vaults he'd already explained, he put a lot of thought into what everyone would want.

Mr. Wealsey just got a card, but also a note saying that one each of every muggle appliance in his home had already been delivered to his tool shed. The appliances from the extra flats that no longer existed served Harry no purpose, and he'd had Hedwig deliver them while his guests had first arrived, and had gotten a drink n the muggle room. In fact, Hedwig was hardly noticed until Harry was reminded of her delivery. But there she was, in her customary spot on her perch in the corner. With all the excitement, Harry knew he shouldn't feel bad about ignoring her, but still did. He called her over to his shoulder to make it up to her, and she seemed to forgive him.

Mrs. Wealsey and Mrs. Granger both got spa appointments from Harry in muggle London, as he though it was a nice way they could relax and get to know each other. Mrs. Weasley was often wound too tight, and by going with Hermione's mum, she'd have a muggle guide in the world she wasn't comfortable in herself. Both ladies loved the gift, and thanked Harry for his insight.

Mr. Granger didn't know what to expect from Harry (truly he hadn't even been expecting anything), but was surprised when Fred dropped a large wrapped parcel on his lap. It was a gift from him, George, and Harry, he said, and should come in handy. Mr. Granger was a little apprehensive about opening the gift (Hermione must have told him to avoid anything the twins gave him), but did, and look confused at the large package of sweets he was holding.

"They're Numbing Candies," Harry explained. "I had the idea, and gave George and Fred some money to invent them. Real simple actually; a fourth year could make a numbing potion. But these are different because they're sweet, and they last longer. I figured you could give them to kids who are scared of shots, or adults who are allergic to Novocain. The ingredients are all natural, and are guaranteed to keep a mouth numb for exactly one hour. I never got to go to the dentist, but my cousin Dudley used to complain about needles all the time. I figured it would be a good idea."

"You mean you made candy into a numbing agent that will last for an hour?" Mrs. Granger asked. Harry nodded, and she gave her husband a huge hug. "Oh Jim, this will be perfect for the new kid's room! I bet we'll have every dentist in London after our supplier. Thank you Harry! Thank you Fred and George! I don't think you know how difficult it is to treat young children sometimes. Why, even Hermione used to cry when she used to get her check ups."

It was obvious they liked the gift, and Fred and George even had to admit that what they thought had been a crazy idea by Harry turned out to be a good one.

There were a few minutes when nobody else picked up one of Harry's gifts, but then Remus got his, and smiled at the note from Harry. Harry had gotten him a Gringotts vault as well (with substantially more money in it than five hundred galleons), a new briefcase with engraved initials, and a promise to go shopping for a complete new wardrobe in the upcoming week.

Harry had given Neville the latest muggle hand-held gaming system, and almost ten games. He'd done so well in the arcades, that Harry knew it was just the thing to give him. After all, how many books about plants could one boy really need? Harry knew that Neville wouldn't be able to use the battery operated system at Hogwarts, but he'd still be able to use it on the train ride there, and at home. At the least, Harry figured his friend could play the games as he visited with his parents, and sat at their bedside.

Hermione was a difficult person to shop for as always, and Harry had ended up just getting her her own set of dictating quills and some fancy monogrammed parchment and envelopes. She was pleased though at the practical and yet personal gifts, and had another hug for Harry in thanks.

And again, Ron shot a nasty look towards Harry. Except when he had opened his own gifts, Ron was starting to act strange, and Harry didn't like it.

After all of his successes, the twins had actually resorted to digging through the pile of remaining gifts to find Harry's to them. However, they were disappointed when they found none, and instead just got to watch Harry grin at them

"Looking for something?" He taunted.

"Yeah, where's our present," George answered with gusto.

"George! Harry's been nice enough to fund that foolish shop of yours, and have us over for the day for what smells like a wonderful meal. Show some appreciation!"

"It's alright Mrs. Weasley," Harry calmed her. "I'm just having some fun with them." Then taking a small key out of his side pocket, Harry flipped it though the air to Fred's awaiting hands.

"Another key to a Gringott's safe?" He guessed.

"Nope," Harry smiled, "and you'll never guess, so just let me tell you. It's a key to a small shop in Diagon Alley, and it's all yours now."

Mouths dropped all around the room, and none fell lower than Fred and George's. For perhaps the first time in their lives, the Weasley twins were speechless.

Taking their silence as an invitation to continue, Harry went on. "It's a small shop next to Florean's Ice Cream Shop, and behind the cauldron store. I found out I own the property when searching through my parents' paperwork, and it's been empty for almost a year now. I haven't been in it, but I've seen floor plans, and it looks big enough for a new WWW store. There's a modest three bedroom flat on the second floor, the shop's magically expanded to triple its size, and there's a small cellar I figured you guys could use for development and storage. Really it's your to do with what you want, and I thought you could have it rent free until you start turning a profit. When that happens, we'll sit down, and arrange a fair lease."

Again, more silence, although the Grangers didn't know what the big deal was, and were more intrigued by the Weasley parents' gaping mouths.

"Harry," Fred finally came to, "that's about the best gift we could have gotten, mate. We've been saving up to open another shop, but with the increased rents because of increased security, we thought we would have to wait another year."

"Cheers, mate," George added on. "I reckon' whether you like it or not, you just became a lifelong partner. We'll do you proud Harry"

Ron was the only one who didn't looked pleased though. In fact, he was being downright rude.

"It's a bit much, isn't it," he said. "I mean, it's not as if you owe them anything Harry. Do you have to constantly flaunt your wealth around like that?"

Ron's comments brought the entire group to defend Harry, and eventually Ron apologizes for speaking out of turn. Still, he sat as far away from Harry as possible, which more than just one person noticed.

Mrs. Weasley wasn't much easier to bring around to the twins' way of thinking, but eventually even she got caught up in the holiday cheer, and gave in to the pressure. No longer her babies, she just didn't want to accept her sons were not only starting their own business, but now by the looks of things, moving out as well. The little comfort she could take however, was that neither Fred nor George had an ounce of talent in the kitchen, and would have to eat their meals at the Borrow. "We might not be sleeping there anymore," they said, "but it will always be our home."

A few more gifts were exchanged, and soon the dwindling pile had only a few left. Harry was looking for the large one from Remus he'd seen earlier that day, but couldn't find it anywhere. He was just about to ask about it, when Ginny interrupted him with an outstretched hand. In it was a single piece of parchment, which had been his gift to her. This was it, the moment he had been waiting for.

"Harry," she batted her eyes, "this says that I have to come and ask you personally for my gift."

"What gift?" Harry played along. "Did I get you something?"

Ginny already had her new Gringott's key in her pocket, but swung a fist into Harry's arm prodding him to drop the act.

"Ouch, that hurt! Remind me never to get on your bad side, Gin. Okay, I'll get your gift." Then Harry turned to face Hedwig, who was perched on the back of the couch behind him.

"Hedwig girl, would you mind getting Ginny's gift now? You know the one."

Ginny and the others looked at Harry strangely, but Hedwig (not to mention Neville and Remus) must have known what he was talking about. For not a second later she disappeared in a burst of white and gold flames, and Harry rose to walk to the window.

"Fred," Harry asked, "You're my magic guy today. Would you please vanish this pane of glass? I'm expecting a delivery soon."

Fred hadn't been asking Harry to explain his requests all day. And after such a great gift, he wasn't about to then. So he vanished the glass without question, and just shrugged his shoulders when Ron asked him if he knew what was up.

They didn't have to wait long though. For just a short time later, Hedwig came flying in the room from around the building's corner, with a friend in tow.

"I know it's not as surprising an entrance as Rowen made on Hermione's birthday, but Happy Christmas Ginny!"

Hedwig's new friend had perched on Harry's outstretched arm, and as he walked slowly over to where Ginny was frozen in shock, he presented her with her new familiar.

"Ginny, everyone else had an owl, so I though it time you got one as well. But I couldn't think of what type to get you, and then I remembered when Sirius used those colorful birds from where he'd been hiding. You liked them, I remembered, but unfortunately those were toucans, and aren't good for general use. They're too small, and don't do well in colder climates. It's actually amazing that Sirius got that message delivered at all. So I did some reading, and I found that South American parrots don't have those problems, and a few magical breeds exist. I had to send Hedwig to Brazil to find a seller with enough birds in stock, and Raul here's been living with us for about a week now."

As Ginny took in the spectacularly colored red, green, and blue bird, she started to move towards it; to ruffle his feathers. Raul didn't seem to mind, as he'd been kind of ignored the past week, and had spent three weeks before that just making his way to England.

"Is he really for me, Harry?" Ginny gently asked. She was thinking it was too good to be true.

Ron snorted, obviously either upset or jealous again at something or other, but Harr just ignored him. He was having such a wonderful holiday so far, he could wait to deal with Ron once back at school.

"Yup, all for you. Hermione's got two pets, I've got Hedwig; hell, even Pigwidgeon's got personality enough for an owl ten times his size. But with his inability to carry heavy packages, and Errol getting on in years, I thought you might like to have a new pet. Raul's already a year old, so that's why you can't rename him. He's very smart, so he's used to being called it by now. He can talk too! He's supposed to be able to learn about twenty phrases in his first year with you, and he knows some already from the pet shop owner that sold him. That man must have had a weird sense of humor though, because some of what Raul says is strange."

"Is that true, little guy?" Ginny cooed. Raul was responding more to her touch, and nibbling on her finger now. Harry lifted his arm quickly to get a rise out of the bird, and he lifted his wings to steady himself. Then turning his head to Harry, Raul squawked for the first time.

"Que es Bandeho?"

"See what I mean," Harry laughed, "strange sense of humor."

"What did he say?" George asked.

"It better off that you don't know," Mrs. Granger laughed back. "It was Spanish, and not too polite."

"He's our kind of bird then," Fred was pleased to answer. "He's even colored Weasley red! He's one of us already."

Harry let Raul walk over to Ginny's arm, and if to cement their relationship, Raul spoke up again. This time it was in English, and everybody had a good laugh at Ginny's expense.

"Pretty lady! Pretty lady! Swawk!"

"Like I said," Harry grinned, "the pet store owner taught him some phrases already."

Raul got passed around the room some more, and even Harry was surprised with how comfortable and at ease he was in a room full of strangers. Harry had paid extra for a well trained bird, and apparently he'd gotten his money's worth.

As the last of the gifts were opened up, Harry had to instruct Ginny quickly on how to care for her new parrot. He ate mostly seeds and nuts, required a constant heating charm on his perch to counter the cold British winters, and had to be misted with water at least once a day so his feathers would stay healthy. Unlike owls, parrots were used to more humid weather, and needed the extra moisture in the air. But by simply taking a water bottle and spraying it in a fine mist over Raul, he'd be fine for a whole day.

It wasn't until four twenty that the group got to sit down to dinner. Harry's dining room table had been expanded to seat fourteen, as even Dobby and Winky were joining them to eat. Hermione insisted that she help them serve the platters though, but after being thrilled they had been left relatively alone to cook the meal, the elves didn't mind her slight intrusion to help serve it in the least.

Roast goose, a baked ham, Beef Wellington; all the holiday favorites were prepared. There were also not less than a dozen side dishes and three types of salads, and Winky took great praise from Ron when even he wasn't able to sample every dish. And while they ate, the group passed light conversation about what the children had been learning at Hogwarts. The roles they all had played in their first meeting on the train (A boy named Neville has lost his toad!), the house points they all had won to secure the house cup their first year, and that horrific first flying lesson when one boy had ended up in the hospital wing, and the other had been promoted to stardom as his house's new seeker.

Again, with so much attention being placed on him and Neville, Harry noticed Ron's mood swing again. Honestly, he was being worse than a hormonal pregnant woman!

Mr. and Mrs. Granger talked a little about how they viewed the wizarding world from a muggle parents' perspective, and they indulged Mr. Weasley in describing, in detail, as much about electricity and airplanes as they could.

After the meal, Fred and George decided to tackle the muggle room, and Ron and Neville joined them. Hermione and Ginny retired to the library to spend some quite time digesting their meal, while Hermione read books and Ginny talked to Raul. The adults returned to the living room for aperitifs, and glad to be away from their kids if only for a little while, appreciated the company of each other.

Harry was content to just drift from group to group, spending a few minutes with each, and listening with interest. He ended up spending most of his time in the muggle room with the guys, and managed to beat Ron in a game finally; which Ron wasm't pleased about. Fred and George both beat him at pool though, which surprised everyone but the twins. In hushed tones, they let the others know that they'd been sneaking into muggle bars in London for two years, and it wasn't the first time either of them had seen a pool table. Thinking about it again; no, Harry wasn't surprised.

When they all had a chance to relax, Dobby informed them that dinner had been cleared away, and that dessert was ready. Most of the adults groaned at thoughts of more food, and for once Molly Weasley was glad she had left her cooking behind.

Three chocolate cakes, apple pie, strawberry tortes, homemade macadamia nut ice cream, a pumpkin/pecan pie monstrosity, and Harry's crème brule all adorned the table. Ron's eyes were watering as he retook his seat, and except for one crack about the "burnt puddings," everyone only had wonderful things to say about the selections.

Harry's dessert had been a little lighter than he would have liked, but without the suggested blow torch, he didn't care; it still tasted great! Everyone else liked them as well, and no dessert was left untouched.

It was another hour later, after tea, more resting, and a nap by Mr. Weasley on a sofa, that everyone got up to leave. Harry had a portkey ready for the Grangers, and now that the Weasleys were informed by Harry about his Hideaway's location, they would be traveling by floo. Raul had already flown ahead, and the group had just said their goodbyes.

"I really love Raul Harry," was the only thank you that Harry remembered though. "He's perfect, and I'll always remember tonight. You've been so good to my family. Thank you." Then Ginny reached over and kissed Harry on the check. She didn't miss this time, but she did linger. It was also more intimate and forward than even the hickies Harry had given her moths ago.

"Don't forget my present to you," she whispered right before leaving. "I want the chance to pay you back."

Harry stood pondering her words long after everybody had gone. Neville had disappeared into his parents' flat, and only Remus was left with him.

"Come on Loverboy, you've got one more present to open tonight."

Loverboy? Harry was about to ask what that was about, when he remembered the gift he'd been looking for, but never found. "Yeah," he complained. "You've been holding out on me, haven't you?"

"I though it best, Harry," Remus explained. "I didn't know what your reaction would be, so I wanted to give this to you in private. Follow me to my room."

Harry did, and with a little apprehension, took the large gift from Remus's hands.

"Remember on your birthday when I wrote you that Sirius and I were working on something for you together, but things had changed, and it wasn't ready yet?"

"Yes." In truth, not a week had gone by when Harry hadn't wondered when he'd get to find out what that gift had been.

"Well, it's finally ready now. I hope you like it."

Harry hoped so too. After all the build up and suspense, it would be hard on Remus if he didn't. Not wanting to postpone opening the parcel anymore though, Harry carefully untied the strings, and peeled the paper back.

At first Harry didn't recognize what was in his hands. But as he held his new cherished gift away from him, he saw it for what it truly was, and almost dropped it in shock. Only Remus's quick hands saved it from destrction.

"Oh my God!" Harry cried out. Then he turned to Remus with tears in his eyes, and simply said, "Thank you."

---

Author Note:

This chapter is one half of my original Ch. 24, but I decided to split it up as it was so long. At over 59 MS Word pages in 10 pt. type, with almost ten pages of non-stop action, it was just too much to read for most people at one sitting. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised that at 59 pages, and 40,000 words, this is was longest chapter in HP fanfic history! I never claimed to be a brilliant action writer, so I hope I did a good job. Lately everyone's been talking about the action scenes Joe6991 writes, and I know there's no way I can compete with that. His fics are very war-like and action driven though, and mine isn't like that, so I hope you all can accept our differences.

What else? Ah yes... A shout out goes to Ruskbyte too, for the ingenious idea of making portkeys out of hula hoops. They're the perfect shape and size for large crowds, and I just had to use it. I'm also not satisfied with the Voldemort scene as I've written it, but I decided to post the chapter anyway as is. It will no doubt be rewritten for my Schnoogle update though, so if you though the words a little OCC for the characters, then don't worry, so did I. I just thought you'd prefer me posting already, rather than waiting another week while I tweak that one short scene.

And what did you all think of my gifts? Believe me, not even I'm as considerate as Harry is when it comes time to buy presents. I'd much rather prefer to just get and give cash, but I know that's frowned on as being the easy way out. What can I say? I'm easy! At least now though you know why Hedwig flew to South America, and you've seen Ron's temper and jealousy start to flare up again. That will play an important part for the rest of the fic, so pay attention. Don't worry about me turning Ron into a complete prat though. I like to pick on him, but I know he'll always be a good guy, and Harry's friend, so I wouldn't dream of turning him into something else. There will be a huge conflict between Harry and Ron at the end of this fic, but their friendship will become stronger after it, and they'll be back to best buds in my sequel.

Anything else I can remember to say I'll post in my Yahoo! Group, and I'll also be having a live chat there soon. I've also got a new fic "The Best of a Bad Situation" which is being published at It's a short, smutty NC-17 piece I couldn't get out of my head, and I hope a few of you will take a look. I guess it's my way to keep PoT PG13; by writing pure smut somewhere else. That's all for now though, and I hope to make two updates in November.

Oh, and as I've taken to do lately, all review responses to my last chapter are posted in the "files" section of my Yahoo! Group. I think likes it that way, and so do most of my members. Joining is free and easy, so stop by and take a look. Link is on my bio page; just click on "homepage" to get there. Later!

Ross