Disclaimer: Refer to chapter 1
Chapter 9: Goblet of Fire, Part V
As they walked back to Gryffindor Tower, Harry pulled Ginny into a dark alcove and wrapped his arms around her. Leaning his forehead against hers, he spoke softly, "Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight?"
Ginny smiled and replied, "Yes, but you can tell me again." Harry started to open his mouth when Ginny closed it with a kiss; Harry did not protest. In the distance footsteps could be heard.
Harry groaned and said, "Next time, we go to the Manor." Ginny stifled a giggle by burying he face into Harry's chest and waited for the intruders to pass them by.
"Hermoninny," came a gruff, but recognizable Bulgarian voice, "I vad a vonderful time. I vould like to see you again," although it was a statement it carried an implied question.
Hermione's answering voice was timid, but did hold the tenor of excitement, "I would like that too Viktor." Harry and Ginny tensed when they heard the unmistakable sound of a kiss. They remained quiet and hidden until Hermione and Krum passed them and even then did not dare to speak.
I'm so happy for Hermione! Crowed Ginny in his head.
Err…I doubt Ron is going to feel the same way. You saw how he looked when he saw her this evening.
I don't think we should tell him about the kiss.
You think…
Don't get smart with me Mr. Potter. The voice was firm, but was interlaced with a seductive tone. Harry did not know how she managed to sound both stern and seductive, but he really did not care and leaned in for another kiss.
By the time they exited the alcove and made their way to the tower it was so late that they met no one else in the hallways and corridors. They did not expect anyone to be in the common room, but they were wrong.
When the portrait swung open to admit them, their ears were assaulted by an extremely irate and offended voice, "WHAT RON? WHAT DO YOU HAVE AGAINST VIKTOR? AT LEAST HE WORKED UP THE COURAGE TO ASK ME OUT!"
"THIS ISN'T ABOUT WHO ASKED WHO OUT," yelled a furious Ron at a red faced Hermione. "I THOUGHT YOU WERE SMART! CAN'T YOU SEE HE'S ONLY USING YOU TO GET TO HARRY."
"HOW DARE YOU! VIKTOR WOULD NEVER DO THAT. BESIDES I WOULD NEVER BETRAY HARRY," Hermione stopped to take a breath before continuing in a lower volume, "Unlike some people, who betray him because of jealousy and insecurity."
Harry and Ginny made identical gasps of horror. They both knew Hermione had gone too far. Everyone knew that Ron was jealous and insecure, including Ron, but throwing it in his face was only aimed to hurt. Ron looked like he was going to explode.
A loud a crack caused all four individuals in the common room to become distracted. An ink well that someone had left on one of the tables had exploded and several other objects were shaking slightly. They all recognized the signs of accidental magic.
To everyone's surprise though, Ron took a deep breath, hung his head and simply walked up the stairs and to the boys' dormitory. Hermione's face was red now from shame rather than anger and when she realized that Harry and Ginny were watching she quickly hid her face in her hands and followed Ron's example.
The next day Ron and Hermione did not speak once. While the situation slowly improved by the start of classes, they were still not speaking normally and were overly polite with each other. Many of the conversations that the four had had no interaction between the two best friends, questions and comments were directed only at Harry and Ginny.
"Ginny, I don't think I told you, but your dress was lovely," said Hermione as they walked to breakfast.
"Thank you," Ginny answered and Ron shot her and Harry a questioning glance and seemed to consider whether to weigh in on a conversation started by Hermione.
"It was a nice dress," three heads turned toward Ron surprised, "Where did you get it from?"
"Um…well," Ginny glanced at Harry before continuing, "from Harry." Ron frowned, but did not immediately say anything.
Harry, hoping to prevent another episode of jealously from Ron, added quickly, "I didn't buy it though." Ron seemed mollified by the answer, but this time Hermione frowned thoughtfully.
"If you didn't buy it, where did you get it from?" she asked.
Harry sputtered for a moment and knew that he would have to come clean or tell a very convincing lie. He looked around, making sure they were unobserved and whispered, "Potter Manor."
Seeing that Hermione was about to launch into a tidal wave of questions, Harry dragged them into an unoccupied classroom. Harry was surprised that Hermione managed to restrain herself until the door was closed, "Potter Manor?" Although Ron did not say anything, his expression clearly said that he also wanted to know what Potter Manor was.
Taking a deep breath, Harry began, "It is my family's estate. The dress robes came from there."
"But how did you get them?" pressed Hermione, "and where is it? And when did you find out about it? How come you didn't tell us?" Hermione realized she was overloading Harry with questions and stopped, "Sorry, how did you get the robes?"
Harry shifted uncomfortably, unsure about how he was going to answer. He did not want to tell her about being an animagus, but he was not sure how to answer without doing so.
Luckily, Ginny was able to come up with a solution, "Bonny picked them out and tailored them." Harry was impressed that Ginny had managed to tell Hermione the truth, but not reveal anything. However, his admiration quickly turned into trepidation; while they had avoided revealing they were animagi, he was going to have to tell Hermione that Bonny was a house elf.
"Who's Bonny?" Hermione asked curiously.
"She's a house elf," gulped Harry.
Predictably, Hermione did not take the news well. Her eyes widened and she frowned, "You own a house elf?" There was definitely an edge to her voice.
Ginny sidestepped to stand behind Harry. Thanks Ginny.
Well, they are your house elves.
They're yours too!
Yes, but I didn't think we were telling them that we're married.
Er…
Ginny's voice turned humorous, Just think of it as me…um…guarding your back.
Yeah, only Hermione is in front of me…
"Are you going to answer me?" Harry momentarily marveled at how much like McGonagall Hermione looked right now.
"Er…yes…well actually…you see…Bonny…er…there are four," the last words came out as a whisper. Harry tried to retreat inward expecting Hermione's explosion, while Ron, who was standing behind Hermione, looked like he was struggling between sympathy for Harry's plot and laughter.
"YOU OWN FOUR HOUSE ELVES? You're going to give them cloths, right?"
"Well…ummm…I don't know. I haven't really thought about it until now," Harry truthfully answered.
"Where's the Manor?" asked Ron, asking a question for the first time. Harry was incredibly grateful at the slight change of topic. In front of him, Hermione struggled between anger and curiosity.
Harry frowned at the question though; he did not know exactly where the Manor was. "I think it is somewhere in Scotland."
"It's close to Hogsmeade," interjected Ginny.
How do you know that?
Daniel mentioned it…at some point I think.
I can't believe you actually paid attention.
Neither can I.
Ron nodded and then irritation passed over his face, "Why didn't you tell me and Hermione?" It was the first time since the Yule Ball that Ron had acknowledged Hermione's existence, much less said her name.
Harry realized that he did owe them an apology and silently promised to tell them about being an animagus soon, "I'm sorry, but it just…well I don't know exactly, but Dumbledore said I couldn't stay there so I figured it didn't matter. I was going to invite you when he allowed me to visit," answered Harry.
You're getting better at those half-truths.
It's your influence. Ginny responded by stealthily pinching his rear, making him jump slightly.
"Oh, okay. When do you think we can see it?" asked Ron. Harry was surprised Ron was taking the news that Harry owned a Manor so well.
"Maybe we can convince Dumbledore to let us go during a Hogsmeade weekend – the next one is only a couple of weeks away. If not, maybe during the summer."
"I can't believe you own a Manor!" said Ron enthusiastically, "Do you know if it has enough space for us to play quidditch?"
Typical Ron, thought Harry smiling, "Yeah, it does. There's a pitch on the grounds." Ron's face broke into a huge grin.
"Brilliant. I can't wait to go."
Seeing that Hermione felt left out of the excitement Harry said, "It's also supposed to have a library." Hermione's disposition brightened a little at the thought of a yet unexplored library.
"Hungry?" asked Ginny. Ron didn't have to answer and Harry nodded and moved to leave.
As they exited the room they heard Hermione mutter under her breath, "Four house elves…"
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The next two weeks rapidly flew by. After the discussion about the Manor, Hermione and Ron were once again speaking, if a little strained, and Ron had informed them that when he had left the ball early he had accidentally overheard Hagrid telling Madam Maxime about being a half-giant.
"So, I didn't hear who Hagrid's mother was – there was this irritating beetle, a real ugly thing, that was buzzing around – I just can't believe Hagrid's half-giant. I mean I always thought he was nice enough and just got in the way of a bad engorgement charm or something," said Ron finishing his story.
"I figured as much…" thoughtfully whispered Hermione, "But it's not like it matters."
Ron's eyes managed to narrow and widen at the same time his nose crinkled, "Are you nuts, Hermione? Giants are blood thirsty. They were responsible for like half of the muggle deaths during the war! It's a very big deal; people aren't going to like this."
Hermione huffed, "That's just wizard bigotry. Everyone knows Hagrid – he wouldn't hurt anyone."
Rolling his eyes Ron said, "People aren't going to care when they hear he's a half-giant though." It was one of the few times that Hermione was proven wrong. The same day the Daily Prophet came out with an article by Rita Skeeter revealing Hagrid's background and his strange affinity to "monsters." Hagrid had not been seen for the rest of the week and would not answer the door when they knocked.
Harry was walking besides them as the headed toward Hogsmeade, but Hermione and Ron had stopped to argue. He was wondering how he was going to get them walking again when Ginny came up behind them and, putting a hand on each of their backs, pushed them forward. They did not even notice as they began walking, arguing all the way.
True to his word, Harry had asked Dumbledore if they could go to the Manor, but, as expected, Dumbledore had said it would have been too difficult to arrange. They slowly made their way to the Three Broomsticks. When they entered the pub they were shocked to see Rita Skeeter sitting at one of the tables talking to a group of Slytherins. Rita's head turned when they entered and a large, fake smile appeared on her face.
"Harry! How good to see you again," she moved to come toward him – quills at the ready.
"Don't bother. I'm not going to help you ruin anybody else's life." Harry turned his back and sat at the nearest table. Ron and Ginny looked a little mutinous, but followed his example. Hermione, however, remained standing.
Rita turned her attention to Hermione, "So, how about you? Hermione, right? I hear your going out with Viktor Krum – did you get tired of Harry? What do you think about being taught by a half-giant?"
Hermione's expression reminded Harry of when she had hit Malfoy. Ron must have agreed because he said, "Oh no. She's going to hit her!"
"You nasty, putrid, evil woman," Hermione began. "You shouldn't have written that about Hagrid – he's the gentlest person we all know. Why don't you just go – you disgust me." Hermione swiftly turned and walked back out. The three of them exchanged a look and then set off after her.
"Hermione! Where are you going?" called Ron as they ran after her.
She stopped and waited for them, "HURRY UP! I'm not going to let Hagrid hide just because of that that thing!" No one said another word as they practically ran back to Hogwarts and Hagrid's hut. When they finally arrived at Hagrid's door, Hermione began banging on it with force and yelling, "Hagrid! Open up! I'm not going to allow you to hide! We don't care what that Skeeter cow wrote. I said open…"
Hermione's yelling was cut off by the sudden opening of the door and Hermione stepped back in shock at not Hagrid's, but Dumbledore's appearance. "Hello, Miss Granger. Why don't you four come in? I'll get you some tea."
Dumbledore stepped aside to allow the four entrance and quickly prepared tea for them with a wave his wand. "See Hagrid, these four are examples of what I've been trying to tell you."
Hagrid looked up, but still voiced doubt, "But all those letters. They called me…" he choked out.
"Oh, Hagrid," exhaled Dumbledore, "You are never going to get universal approval. Just look at me. Not a week goes by that I don't get accused of being insane or crazy. Or look at my dear brother Alberforth – he refused to be embarrassed or intimidated when they accused him of performing improper charms on a goat." Dumbeldore's gaze turned a little inward as if in remembrance, "But then I think he was guilty."
Hagrid's huge eyes turned away from Dumbledore and looked at the four of them lined on his couch. "Did you mean what you said out there?" They all nodded solemnly. "I'm sorry – I've been behavin' foolish." Dumbledore smiled and patted him on the back and then made an excuse about having to get back up to the school. As he left he gave them a small nod and left. "Me dad would be ashamed of me behavin' like this. Have I ever shown you a picture of him?" Hagrid did not wait for an answer and handed them a photograph, "Here he is."
That night Harry was under the invisibility cloak, making his way to the prefects' bathroom. During the discussion with Hagrid, he had been asked how he was coming with the golden egg. Harry realized with a start that he had forgotten all about the egg. Although he told Hagrid he was almost done figuring out the clue, he had confessed to the others immediately after they left. Harry had wanted to flame directly to the bathroom, but found the egg too large and rounded for his talons. So now he found himself walking with the egg in one hand and the map in the other.
He stood a moment in front of the barmy statue trying to remember the password Cedric had told him. "Pine fresh." He entered the bathroom and was amazed. The bathroom was huge and the tub was nearly the size of a swimming pool. There were numerous taps along the edge of the tub, which he could only assume were for different bathing salts. Sure enough when he began testing them he found several different scents and bubbles spewing forth.
When the large tub was filled, Harry stripped and slid in with the egg. Looking around to make sure he was alone and feeling more than a little foolish he opened the egg. The unearthly awful scream immediately began echoing across the bathroom. He slammed the egg close and cursed and wondered what Cedric had meant by take a bath with it.
His thoughts were interrupted by another voice, "Put it under the water."
Harry turned around quicker than he thought was possible. Floating just out of reach was Moaning Myrtle. "Myrtle!" Harry exclaimed. "How long have you…I mean what are you doing here?"
Myrtle smiled shyly and her cheeks became more silver in what Harry assumed was a ghostly blush. "I sometimes come here and watch the prefects." Seeing Harry's horrified expression she continued in an almost delightful tone, "Don't worry, Harry, I didn't see anything, but the summer has been good to you." Her eyes traveled along his torso, the only thing visible above the bubbles.
Harry blushed. It was true he had filled out during the summer. Exploring the Manor in his animagus forms had been extremely good workouts. "How do you know I should put it under the water?" asked Harry, ignoring Myrtle's praise.
Her smile lost its shyness, "That's what he did. He was here a long time. By the time he figured it out all the bubbles were gone."
Poor Cedric, Harry thought and then made to follow Myrtle's advice. An hour later he had heard the entire song and was dressed.
He was walking absentmindedly down the stairs wondering what he would miss the most was when his improved night vision caught something. It was only for a moment, but he thought he saw the flash of silver. Harry brought the map up to his face and examined it and had to stifle a gasp of surprise: Mr. Crouch was labeled on the map and not far from the bottom of the staircase. He watched the dot quickly enter an office and began wondering around it.
So immersed in watching the map Harry did not notice where he was and felt his foot sink into one of the trick staircases. Flinging his arms out to stop himself from falling, he released the egg and map. The map floated down noiselessly and landed face down. The egg, however, not only fell down the remaining stairs its crashes echoing, but also flipped open at the bottom and began screaming.
Harry was just about to accio the egg and parchment when Filch and Mrs. Norris appeared seemingly out of nowhere. Filch quickly closed the egg and began yelling at an un-present Peeves. So far he had ignored the map in his excitement at the possibility of having Peeves expelled, but Harry new that would not last long and Mrs. Norris was sniffing curiously – obviously smelling the bathing salts. She had made it to the edge of his robes when she froze and then turned and ran as fast as Harry had ever seen the horrid cat run. Harry wished he could laugh. He and Ginny had finally figured that somehow Mrs. Norris could somehow smell the scent of a panther…she was quite afraid of panthers.
Filch had just spotted the map on the floor and Harry was wondering how things could possibly get worse when things got much worse: Snape walked around the corner.
"Filch," he sneered, "I need your help. Someone has broken into my office."
"But Professor, Peeves, he's been stealing. Look," Filch proudly displayed the golden egg.
For the first time, Snape looked around taking into account the scene. His eyes traveled from the egg to the old piece of parchment on the floor. His sneer became more pronounced, "Potter."
"Professor?" asked bewildered Filch.
"Potter. That's his egg and that has got to be…" Snape was bending down toward the parchment.
"Snape," growled Moody, somehow approaching without anyone hearing him. Professor Snape stood up straight and wheeled around to face Moody.
Moody's electric-blue eye surveyed the scene and for a moment he looked shocked as he took in the bizarre scene. "What do we have here? If that is Potter's egg then you had better give it to me. I'll make sure he gets it." Harry frantically pointed to the map on the floor. "Ah, I can always use a spare bit of parchment," Moody said and then summoned it. Harry breathed a sigh of relief.
Harry did not so much as breath during the heated exchange between Snape and Moody. After Moody practically sent Snape away Filch slunk away, horribly disappointed that he was not going to get the chance to expel Peeves.
"Thank you, Professor."
"Not a problem, Potter. What were you doing out past curfew?" asked Moody. Harry motioned toward the egg. "Ahh, yes. Well here it is. I suggest you don't drop it again. Makes an awful racket." Harry stared wide-eyed at Moody; Moody had made a joke. The gnarled professor did not notice Harry's stare though as he was examining the piece of old parchment, "Merlin's beard! Where did you get this?"
"Er…well…" Harry managed to get out, desperately not wanting to tell on Fred and George.
Moody seeing his discomfort gave a horrible smile and waved him off, "That's alright, Potter. My something like this must be incredibly helpful." It was not a question; Moody looked up at Harry, "Potter, do you mind if I borrow this?" Harry nodded; he did not dare say no, besides he figured he owed Moody this much.
Moody turned to leave when Harry realized he was still stuck, "Professor!" Moody turned and with a low chuckle he helped Harry out of the trick step. As Moody walked away Harry noticed that a small piece of silver fabric was sticking out of his pocket. Harry smiled; it did not surprise him at all that Moody had an invisibility cloak.
……………………………………
Hermione slowly closed the large book. She was stunned; she had focused her research on life debts and similar bonds, but the more she thought about it the more a soul bond made since – it explained everything about Harry and Ginny's behavior. Yet, there was still a problem with that conclusion. Soul bonds were not supposed to simply come into existence like she suspected the bond between Harry and Ginny did, but were supposed to develop overtime nor was a soul bond even supposed to be possible between two so young. It was true soul mates always shared a type of bond, but it could not intensify and create a true soul bond until after the souls had become acquainted. Hermione decided to watch them carefully to confirm her suspicions of a soul bond (impossible or not). If they were bonded like that, it would be obvious to a suspecting observer.
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The next few weeks Ron, Hermione, and Ginny helped Harry every free moment he had trying to find a way for him to breathe underwater. So far they had discovered none. They all were becoming frustrated. That night found them once again in the common room searching through several large aquatic books.
Harry slammed his book shut and said loudly, "How am I supposed to breathe underwater? Were never going to find anything!"
Across the room Neville's head shot up. He walked over to the four of them, "Hey, Harry," he said timidly. Neville had never been good group situations and he appeared shocked at his own daring, "I heard you…umm…need to breathe underwater." Harry nodded, trying to figure out where Neville was going. "How long do you need to breathe underwater?"
Harry gave Neville a searching look. Could he really know how?
Can't hurt to answer. Neville is not as stupid as Snape makes out.
Really? Never would have guessed that – No one's as stupid as Snape says. But I agree with what you're getting at.
Harry doubled the time the song had said and told Neville, who smiled, "You could use gillyweed!" Neville said excitedly and proud that he could make a contribution.
"Gillyweed?" asked Hermione. She looked intensely uncomfortable that Neville knew something she did not.
"Yeah, it was in this book Professor Moody gave me. It allows you to breathe underwater," Neville blushed as he answered Hermione probably because he was still embarrassed from asking her out to the ball.
"Thanks. You're a lifesaver Neville," thanked Harry. Harry smiled at Neville realizing that the boy in front of him was a better friend than he thought. "Take a seat, Neville. Where do you think we can get some?"
A week later the five had made no progress as to where to acquire gillyweed and Harry was getting nervous. Breakfast that day had also turned into a rather embarrassing and awful affair. The Daily Prophet had brought another article from Rita Skeeter.
Ron had warned Hermione that Rita was probably going to get back at her, but she had been unconcerned. In some strange twist of fate Ron had actually got the paper before Hermione and was reading as fast as he could. He turned to Hermione and asked, "So, Hermione, why does Rita keep saying that you're Harry's girlfriend?"
Hermione actually blushed, "It's my fault. It was a little bit after the tournament was announced and I was talking with a few girls about whether Harry had entered himself and I said something like 'If Harry entered himself then I'm Harry's girlfriend!' Rita only heard the last part. Now what is she saying?"
Ron nodded and returned to the paper, ignoring Hermione's question. By the time he reached the end he was very red and angry. He practically threw the paper at Hermione and said, "That bitch." It was a mad scramble for the paper.
Harry Potter: Wearing his Heart on his Sleeve
This reporter is sorry to report that Harry Potter's longtime girlfriend, Hermione Granger (see previous story), has broken up with him to go out with another Tri-Wizard Tournament Champion and Quidditch star Viktor Krum. Evidently, the fame seeking Granger decided that the unsuspecting Krum was a better avenue for fame. How Ms. Granger managed to seduce the young Mr. Krum is unknown, but several of Ms. Granger's classmates report that she would be quite able to brew a love potion.
Harry Potter has turned to his longtime friend Ginevra Weasley in his pain. He is rarely seen out of her company and attended the Yule Ball with her. Ms. Weasley, a plain looking girl, is the daughter of Mr. Author Weasley and Molly Weasley. As is well known, the Weasleys are very poor and this reporter along with many Hogwarts students fear that Ms. Weasley's interest in Mr. Potter may be simply monetary. Indeed, even according to her own brother, Randy Weasley, Mr. Potter and Ms. Weasley are 'nothing more than good friends with no romantic interest' before Ms. Granger began expressing interest in Mr. Krum. According to one respected student, "Potter should beware; the Weasley girl is just out to get knocked-up and then force Potter to marry her." We can only hope that the hero of the wizarding world will guard his heart carefully and not make any other foolish romantic decisions.
Hermione was muttering under her breath about getting back at the "Skeeter cow" and Ron was pacing angrily. Harry's heart had fallen into his stomach as he read the article. Only Ginny seemed to find it amusing, although she did not voice this aloud.
Harry, what do you think? Am I trying to trick you into marrying me? Her voice was full of mirth and Harry could not help but give a little smile. Her amusement was infectious.
Hmmm…I think I had better watch myself. Wouldn't want to have to marry young…oh wait a minute. What was your name again? I think they have it wrong in this article – isn't it supposed to be Mrs. Potter?
You know, I think you might be right Mr. Potter.
They both burst out laughing, unable to contain themselves any longer. Ron looked appalled, but Hermione looked on with interest, her mind kicking into overdrive remembering as many facts out of Bonds for the Bound as she could. Reading the article one more time, she wondered what could be so funny and then she read the quote and remembered what the book had said about soul bonds.
………………………………..
Strangely, there was little fallout from Rita's article. This was not to do for lack of trying on Malfoy's part. He had insulted, made lewd comments, and generally been his evil self. Although Ron had to be forcibly restrained several times, the others found it rather easy to not respond poorly to Malfoy. Hermione usually alluded to Malfoy's experience as a ferret, which he was still mortified about. Malfoy had tried to provoke Harry and Ginny with lewd comments about their relationship, but his attempt backfired miserably by Ginny's simple retort of "Jealous?" Malfoy had stopped after that.
After not obtaining the response he wanted, Malfoy switched to insulting Hagrid. After two weeks of pranks, which progressively got worse and had culminated with the transformation of Malfoy into a large, white ferret, Malfoy had ceased his criticism of Hagrid. While Harry and Ginny had done most of the pranking, they were still in awe at Fred and George for the last prank.
The only serious problem that had resulted from the article was the hate mail Hermione was receiving. She had stopped opening it all together now after several letters had arrived with various nasty substance and curses.
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Dumbledore smiled at Sirius Black, accused murderer and escaped convict. Almost a year and a half had past since his escape and he had gained much of his weight back, although he still had a worried and haggard look about him. His eyes were the key – Azkaban had given them a haunted look.
"Welcome back to Hogwarts," said Dumbledore. The discussion was going to be tense and he knew it.
Sirius nodded in acknowledgement and then asked, "What news have you heard?"
"Ah, straight to he point?" Dumbledore jovially stalled, "Not much. I'm not sure if that is good or bad. What little news I have obtained is that Voldemort has left Albania, there has been a murder on the grounds of his father's home, and, as you know, Death Eater activity at the World Cup. Those are the things I know." Dumbledore twirled his beard absently, "I suspect more. Bertha Jerkins disappeared sometime ago in Albania – shortly before Voldemort left Albania. I fear the worse has befallen her. As tragic as her death is the knowledge she had is terrifying if Voldemort was able to glean any from her." Sirius straightened; he remembered Bertha from school, but did not know what she had done with herself afterwards.
"She worked for Barty Crouch and had knowledge of the Tri-Wizard Tournament. She is the only connection between Voldemort and Harry's unexpected entrance into the tournament. I know this is flimsy evidence and alone I would not be overly concerned, but Harry's dreams give the evidence added weight."
"Is that why you brought Moody on?" asked Sirius gravely.
"Partly. I was worried before I even heard from Harry this summer. Dark creatures have also been stirring. The dementors in particular seem to be restless," Dumbledore shuddered slightly and Sirius paled at his own memories, but as much as he hated dementors he was shocked by Dumbledore's response to them: he had never seen Dumbledore shudder. "Foul creatures. The Ministry refused to listen when I approached Fudge about it." Sighing sadly he continued, "I convinced Alastor to teach after I noticed the dementors; I want the students to be prepared for anything and he is the only one I know…and trust that has the skill to prepare them."
Sirius nodded, "Yes, if his mantra of 'Constant Vigilance' doesn't wake them up nothing will." His own memories of Moody yelling that phrase at him over and over brought a smile to his face, but it quickly left. "I've notice it too. They do seem more restless. I've encountered too many dark creatures on my travels – nothing major, red kappas and the sort – something has them stirred up and then I heard of Harry's dream and the World Cup of course."
"Too many coincidences," voiced Dumbledore and Sirius again nodded, "And Harry I fear will be his target again. Harry represents his downfall and is a beacon of hope to the rest of the wizarding world. He will want to extinguish that hope."
Sirius' frown deepened, "How could Voldemort come back though? Harry destroyed the Sorcerers Stone."
"I'm afraid there are ways," Dumbledore said repeating what he told Harry, "Dark ways. Too many. Too many I'm afraid for any of us to try and forestall all of them and I daresay Voldemort's knowledge of necromancy is greater than my own."
"How do we protect Harry?"
Now the conversation was going to get difficult thought Dumbledore. "During the school year Harry is safe here. However, during the summer he is safest at the Dursleys; the blood wards I erected there are strong enough to keep him safe from Voldemort and his Death Eaters."
The expression on Sirius' face told Dumbledore he did not approve, "Albus, you have to know how awful the Dursleys are – they are poor excuses for human beings. Wards or no wards Harry should not stay with them." Sirius' words were calm, but Dumbledore knew that the man meant them. It was a testament to Sirius' feelings for Harry that he had remained calm.
"Yes, the Dursleys are rather awful, but they are his only family and the protection they provide is…"
"THEY REMIND ME OF MY PARENTS! FOR MERLIN'S SAKE!" screamed Sirius and then visibly tried to regain his composure. "The only difference between the two is that the Dursleys are muggles," he seethed.
Dumbledore tried not to show his shock. Sirius never mentioned his parents and his comparison of them to the Dursleys was apt, but there was still no avoiding it, "Harry still must return to them," he held up his hand to forestall an immediate interruption, "but only for a little while. Two maybe three weeks at the most. I want to make sure that should the worse happen he has at least one safe place to fall back to. Once the wards are restored he may leave – we just have to decide where. If Voldemort does succeed in his quest then it is critical Harry is protected. I have thought about Potter Manor – especially since Harry discovered he owned it – but it is far too vulnerable," Dumbledore said.
"True, the Manor is not the safest place, but…I can't believe I'm suggesting this, but what about Grimmauld Place – it's technically mine and very well protected already," Sirius' eyes suddenly narrowed "Wait! What do you mean Harry discovered it?"
Shifting uneasily in his chair Dumbledore explained, "I was going to inform him when he was old enough, but the bonding changed all that. How the goblins discovered the bonding I'm still not quite sure…"
Sirius was confused, "Bonding?"
Dumbledore coughed, "Yes. Harry is soul bonded with Ginny Weasley or I suppose it is Ginny Potter now." Dumbledore barely stopped himself in time from chuckling at Sirius' shocked expression. "I'm not sure how it happened. It should not have been possible to have happened to ones so young and so quickly. As far as I've been able to determine, they bonded on Platform 9 3/4 Harry's first year. Very few people know about it. Arthur and Molly of course know and Minerva. They've taken it fairly well, but I think Molly is becoming more concerned now that hey are older and have become more…um…passionate. And from Miss Granger's parcel she received over the break I would say she either knows or suspects." Dumbledore steepled his hands, "Oh, and the goblins of course."
"Married? Harry's married?" Sirius muttered. "How? I mean it…it's impossible."
"I don't know. I was astonished when I discovered it. I thought the poor boy was going crazy during his first year because he was talking to himself – it turned out that he was talking to young Ms. Weasley," Dumbledore chuckled at himself. It had been a huge relief that Harry was not crazy.
"Well that explains the couch!" Sirius exclaimed remembering the compromising situation he had found the two teenagers in. The laughter he felt bubbling faded and he felt the blood drain from his face and he looked pleadingly at Albus Dumbledore, "Please, tell me you have given Harry the Talk." His only answer was the twinkling in Dumbledore's eyes.
………………………………….
Harry had just finished breakfast and stood when an owl swooped by and dropped a letter addressed to him. He recognized the handwriting immediately, Sirius. Once he was sure no one would be able to read the letter over his shoulder, he tore it open. It was surprisingly short.
Harry,
Next Hogsmeade weekend meet me behind Zonko's. Make sure you bring your other half.
-Snuffles
"Err…Ginny?"
Ginny turned away from her discussion with Hermione and Harry handed her the letter. Her eyebrows shot up.
How did he find out?
Well there was the couch…maybe he just wants to meet you? I mean he is my godfather.
I think he knows.
How? I mean the only person who could have told him is…Dumbledore.
There's your how. The concern in Ginny's tone increased, Hermione's suspicious…again.
What do you mean?
She's been fishing, Ginny responded to Harry's confusion, I mean she's been dropping hints and comments hoping I accidentally say something.
Oh. I don't suppose there is a way to distract her.
I doubt it. From some of the things she's been saying in just the past couple of days, I think she's almost convinced herself and you know how Hermione gets.
Harry groaned. If she knows…do you think she's told Ron?
Of course not – especially after his recent behavior. But we are going to have to talk to her soon…Ginny let the statement hang and they both considered the possibilities.
Your right. Harry knew Hermione too well. Whenever Hermione discovered a piece of new information that she had spent ages researching she was always bursting to tell. As Harry and Ginny obviously already knew, it left only Ron for Hermione to tell. Harry shuddered to think about Ron's reaction. He had only got used to the idea of Harry and Ginny being boyfriend and girlfriend. Harry almost felt sorry for Ron.
Hermione pretended not to notice the silent conversation taking place between her two best friends (Ron was currently downgraded to friend since his behavior over Christmas). While they continued walking and Ginny had a letter in front of her, their facial expressions revealed all Hermione needed to know and what she had suspected since the World Cup.
The fact that Harry and Ginny could communicate mentally meant that their bond was incredibly strong. The book had said that bonding often resulted in an increase in power. Hermione did not understand how, but it seemed the sum of two souls' power was greater than the two souls' power independently. She had been wracking her mind for instances of increased power and only one clear instance had come to mind: when Ron had tried to punch Harry. Ron had said that his hand had hit an invisible barrier. Everyone had thought Ron had just punched a wall or tree in frustration and was embarrassed…now Hermione was not so sure. The thought of that incident, however, did not help her concentration as it made her even more irritated with Ron. She hated the thought that he had tried to harm Harry.
Hermione huffed, no longer paying attention to Harry and Ginny. She had her own letter to consider. She had thought that she would find an excuse not to go, but now she realized she could do a lot worse…like Ron. Besides Ron had not so much as apologized or even said a kind word toward her and he, unlike Ron, had asked her out.
………………………………….
The Hogsmeade weekend also happened to be the Valentine's Day weekend; it gave Harry and Ginny an excuse to go to Hogsmeade alone. When they reached Hogsmeade they quickly made their way to behind Zonko's. Sirius was not there. The both looked around, peering into the brush intently. A crackling of the underbrush announced a large black dog's arrival long before they could see him.
"Hey Snuffles," greeted Harry. The dog wagged its tail and gave a low woof. After circling the two of them and sniffing them repeatedly, Sirius took hold of the hem of Harry's robes and pulled. They got the message and followed him back into the brush and up a trail into the mountainous terrain around Hogsmeade.
Sirius led them into a cave and transformed. He gave them a smile as he looked them up and down. "It's good to see you, Harry." His eyes moved from Harry to Ginny, "And you must be Ginny or should I say Mrs. Potter?" Sirius' wicked smile told them he was enjoying making them feel uncomfortable. Summoning strength he did not know he had Harry only moved closer Ginny and put his arm around her.
"Dumbledore?" asked Ginny.
Sirius frowned, "I was hoping to have a lot more fun with that. I imagine you know what Dumbledore told me. Now, I want to hear if from you." The story that they told Sirius was nearly a complete one – they left out becoming animagi and visiting Potter Manor, but told him everything else.
Sirius was quite for the entire story, mostly out of amazement and then he issued a bark-like laugh. "Harry, my boy, how on earth are you still alive? She's got six brothers for Merlin's sake." Harry sighed and told Sirius about Ron. "But that still leaves five," pointed out a rather jovial Sirius.
This time it was Ginny who laughed, "Harry doesn't have anything to worry about. I can handle Bill and Charlie. Percy doesn't seem to care and the twins already like you Harry. Did you know that Ron actually went to them for help to break us apart. From what I heard they just laughed at him." Harry smiled relieved; he had always gotten along well with the twins and it meant a lot to him that they approved.
He looked at them strangely for a moment and then asked, "Is there anything else?"
Harry and Ginny looked at each other before shaking their heads no. Sirius did not looked convinced and leaned toward them and sniffed just like he had as snuffles. "It is the strangest thing, but well you two smell like cats. No not cats, but that is the closest thing to it." He smiled again and Harry was struck by how similar the smile was to the one worn by Fred and George when they were planning something.
He smells us?
Just like Mrs. Norris and I bet McGonagall.
Shall we show him then?
If Dumbledore had not warned him to watch for it he would have missed the silent communication between the two of them. When the couple turned back to face him they began to morph. He laughed for the first time in a very long time as he looked at the two panthers in front of him. "Nice hair, Harry!" He did not know why, but he found the idea that Harry's unruly hair was a distinctive part of his animagus form hilarious. The panther directly in front of him growled while the other panther purred loudly in amusement and then placed her head under Harry's.
The two panthers were soon faced with a black dog who bounded toward them. The three large animals played for a few minutes.
Sirius was now sitting down and laughing happily, "I haven't done that since…" his voice trailed off and Harry guessed he was thinking back to his nighttime adventures with the other Marauders. "Well, at least that's one mystery solved. I'm impressed – you two managed to keep it from Dumbledore. That's not an easy thing to do – trust me I know. Although, you should know I think he suspects something."
"Probably McGonagall – we think she can smell us too," responded Harry with Ginny nodding her agreement. "How was your journey here?"
Harry could not help but notice that Sirius was looking much better than the last time he saw him.
"Not bad actually. You would be surprised what you can get as a lovable stray," he flashed a wicked, mischievous smile again, "So I was able to travel fairly quickly. Food could have been better, but it was an improvement over Azkaban," Sirius' eyes momentarily clouded at the memory, "I must say the lunch I had with Dumbledore was fantastic though – nothing like Hogwarts food."
Harry smiled and agreed wholeheartedly; the only food he had eaten that could compare was Mrs. Weasley's. Sirius told them of several of his adventures on the road and a couple of near misses when the Ministry got too close. When he had finished telling them about his journey the conversation turned more serious.
For nearly an hour they discussed the tournament and Voldemort. The conversation revealed little new knowledge. Sirius recommended that Harry just concentrate on ensuring getting past whatever obstacles the two remaining tasks provided. He had no real advice on gillyweed other than they could possibly order it, but it was a fairly rare plant and may take weeks to arrive. Sirius stopped talking for a moment and then said, "But, I bet old Snape has some in his private stores. It would probably be in his office."
Harry sighed loudly, "After Crouch searched it I bet it will be locked tight."
Sirius rounded on him, "Crouch search his office? How do you know?" Harry quickly told of his late night adventure with the golden egg and the prefects' bathroom. "Strange, very strange and you said that Crouch is supposed to be sick?"
"Yeah, Percy told us at the ball."
"Well, it doesn't tell us anything other than that Crouch is worried too. Strange though that he's pretending to be sick though and you said he sacked his house elf at the World Cup?" Sirius shrugged; he would have to talk to Dumbledore about it later.
Sirius seemed to notice the hour for the first time and fidgeted uncomfortably, "Is it true that you two…umm…hear what is said to the other one? I'm not sure that's right, but Dumbledore wasn't very specific."
Ginny answered, "It is kinda like I hear what is told to Harry, but it's different – we usually have to intentionally pay attention for that, but unless we're distracted or trying not to we pretty much know what each of us is thinking."
Frowning, Sirius nodded, "Okay. Ginny could you step out for a minute and…er…not pay attention. I've got something I would like to talk to Harry about in private." Ginny smiled and made to leave.
"It doesn't really matter Sirius," said Harry, "she's going to know what we talked about anyway." Sirius' looked horrified and then embarrassed.
Oh Harry…he's going to give you The Talk!
The Talk? What do you mean…oh. Harry turned red and Ginny left the cave.
"Alright Harry," said Sirius pausing to collect himself. He opened his mouth again to speak and stopped, obviously flustered, and produced a metal flask. Taking a swallow from it he tossed it to Harry who smelled the now open container. Firewhiskey. Harry took a small swig and almost choked. Sirius chuckled, but still looked nervous. "Okay, how to start this? I can't believe I'm the one having to give this talk to you. Okay…well, Harry, when a man and a woman love each other they want to…err…express themselves…" Sirius paused again searching for words, "physically you see." Sirius looked at Harry and the pleading in his eyes was unmistakable: Please say you understand. Harry nodded.
"Ah. Good. This is all understandable, but you have to be careful and you want to wait until you are older and more responsible." Sirius eyes seemed to loose focus as he continued talking, "Let me tell you – do you ever have to be careful though; I can't tell you how many times girls got the wrong…err…well the point is you need to be sure. The act of making love is special and," Sirius blushed deeply before he continued, "and should probably wait until after marriage…"
Harry snickered.
"What?" asked a flustered Sirius.
Striving to keep his embarrassment under control, Harry spoke, "You do realize that I am married."
Sirius rolled his eyes, "You aren't making this easy." Harry snickered again and Sirius glared. The glare turned to resignation though, "Fine. I suppose most of the Talk doesn't really apply to you, but you still need to be careful. Take precautions. There are several spells and potions…"
Harry walked out of the cave in a daze. After an initially rough start, Sirius had turned out to be a veritable wealth of information about sex. After Sirius had realized that Harry did not need to worry about relationship problems (his exact wording was "Since your stuck with her…"), he had moved into contraception spells and potions and most embarrassing to Harry, the mechanics. He had never thought about it in such detail and having it described and explained in precise, miniscule detail by someone, who obviously had had much experience, was overwhelming.
………………………
Harry was pacing back and forth. Hermione, Ron, Ginny, and Neville were dejectedly flipping through books trying to find an alternative to gillyweed as it had proved difficult to acquire. Ever since Neville had suggested the gillyweed he had begun spending more and more time with them. While Neville was still reserved he was slowly opening up. Harry was surprised that Ron and Hermione were helping him though or at least helping him in the same room. Shortly after the Valentine's day weekend they had stopped talking to each other.
Ron refused to discuss the topic entirely, but Ginny had dragged out what happened from Hermione. She had gone into Hogsmeade with Viktor Krum. Harry had tried briefly to get his two friends to make up, but quickly lost patience as he was too busy trying to find where to obtain gillyweed.
Finally, Harry, in frustration, yelled, "Where am I supposed to get gillyweed?"
There was a crack and then a high pitched voice, "Mr. Harry Potter sir needs gillyweed?"
Harry jumped in shock and then turned to face the voice, "Dobby?"
"Is you needing gillyweed?" Dobby asked, his bat eyes twitching in anticipation.
"Err…yes."
Dobby practically jumped when he answered, "That is no problem. Dobby will find gillyweed." The house elf disappeared, leaving a stunned room.
………………………………….
Harry and the other three champions stood at the edge of the lake. Each of them bore a face of concentration. Harry was doing his best not to become angry. He knew exactly where Ginny was and was not pleased. The only thing that had stopped him from yelling at Dumbledore was that the old man had actually come to both of them the evening before and told them both what was going to happen.
Even though he had agreed to it, he did not like it. He could still feel Ginny, but it was far too close to how she felt when Tom Riddle had tried to possess her. Harry did not know how to describe it; it was like she was there, but not there. Fidgeting, Harry looked at the stands and Dumbledore eager to get the task over with.
When Bagman announced the start of the task, Harry wasted no time. In a flash he had put the gillyweed in his mouth and had dove into the water. Kicking as fast as he could and not even bothering to look around, Harry swam down into the depths of the lake towards the captives, homing in on Ginny's location.
Harry pulled out the knife he had brought with him and swam to Ginny. She was tied to the statue between Hermione and Cho. Her red hair was gently floating in the water and she was deathly pale. Her appearance made Harry shiver in remembrance of the Chamber of Secrets. Cutting her bonds, Harry caught her before she fell. Gently caressing her face he then lowered her to the lake's bottom and looked around wondering where the other champions were. Cedric soon appeared to Harry's relief and admonished him to leave gesturing wildly that Krum and Fleur would be there soon.
When Krum finally appeared as a half-transformed shark and had problems cutting Hermione's bonds with his teeth Harry almost panicked imagining the shark teeth tearing into Hermione. Harry let him borrow the knife and Krum nodded his thanks before swimming off.
Harry half paced, half swam back and forth waiting for Fleur. After what seemed forever he drew his wand and forced the merpeople away and freed Fleur's sister. Grabbing both Gabrielle and Ginny he kicked off from the lakebed and swam as fast as he could to the surface. Just as he began to see the sunlight filtering through the surface of the water Harry felt the gillyweed start to wear off. Putting on one last burst of speed he broke through the surface and coughed out the water. Taking several grateful gulps of air, he turned to look at the girls in his arms.
Both were waking. Ginny's eyes fluttered open and she smiled. She quickly began treading water. When she saw Gabrielle still in his arms, who had upon waking latched on to him, Ginny's smile got wider, "Found another woman have you?" she said, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
"Hah, you know no one could replace you…not that I'd ever want to face your bat bogey hex. Now give me a hand here" Ginny laughed at him as he struggled to keep himself and Gabrielle above water. She moved over closer and helped Harry swim back to shore. As they approached the shoreline he could clearly make out Fleur running back and forth her hair flying crying out for Gabrielle. Fleur met them in knee deep water and took Gabrielle into her arms. Once they had stepped onto the beach and Madam Pomfrey had taken Gabrielle, Fleur turned toward them. She hugged Ginny and gave her two quick kiss as the cheeks and then did the same to Harry. She was in such a hurry to get back to Gabrielle thought that she didn't even notice that one of the kisses ended up on Harry's lips.
Harry blinked and then looked at Ginny. She was laughing at the expression on his face. He quickly joined her and he put an arm around her shoulders and made their way to Madam Pomfrey to warm up.
A/N: As promised the next chapter. Thanks for all the great reviews!
Next chapter: The third task, deciding where Harry goes for the summer, and Hermione's confrontation with Harry and Ginny. I'm looking forward to finishing GOF as OOTP will be more original and will veer further away from the original plotline.