Early the next morning the trio headed to muggle London. Their time was mostly spent purchasing clothes for Harry and other "extras" Mia deemed necessary. Finishing up, the limo started towards the Leaky Cauldron.
Before exiting the vehicle, Severus looked at the younger pair. "Harry, you need a glamour. Can't let anyone know you're not where you're suppose to be!" With a small swirl Harry's short messy black hair disappeared leaving him bald. His green eyes became a dull brown. His overall physique increased by a few inches. Another couple flicks to fix the tight clothes and they were ready to go.
All three slipped through the small crowd at the bar as well as the archway.
Head down, Mia murmured, "Where to first?"
"How about lunch?" The group found a small café.
As they finished up the last bits, they discussed the next item on the agenda.
"Robes. They take the longest." Severus directed the group out of the café past Madam Milkin's to a small boutique, DGP.
Inside the store they were swiftly attended to. Harry was first ushered to the small stool. Out of nowhere a small measuring tape appeared and began taking all of Harry's pertinent measurements. A small notebook and pen floated beside his head recording everything.
"What exactly are we looking for sir?" The tailor inquired. Harry cast a helpless look at Severus who stepped forward.
"He needs four day robes; two black, one dark hunter green, the other dark midnight blue. They need sizing charms to allow for growth spurts as well as the normal anti stain, anti rip, and anti wrinkle. He'll also need a set of white silk ritual robes with silver stitching. Finally a pair of lab robes in grey."
"Tony, I think we should wait on the ritual robes." The pair shared a meaningful look.
"Right. Scratch the ritual robes."
The tailor cast a speculative eye over Harry. "Style? Fit?"
Tapping Harry over the head with his wand, his body shrunk to his own size. "Do what you do best Dolci. Make him look good." Two matching smirks met in the mirror over Harry's head.
A few more notations later and Hermione was taking Harry's place. "Just a couple of day robes, both black. Two lab robes in light grey" Her measurements were quickly recorded along with thoughts about styling.
Finally it was Severus' turn. "A couple of lab robes in grey."
Dolci nodded. Notebook in hand he walked the group to the door. "It shall all be ready by five this evening. It was a pleasure seeing you again Tony." Winking at Sev, he waved at the departing group.
"Tony?" Harry asked.
In a low voice Severus answered, "I am rarely without my death eater glamour. To ensure no familiarity between him and me, I go by my middle name."
Harry gave it some thought. "Sounds reasonable."
With a smirk, Severus again led the group to another small shop on the edge of Knockturn Alley. He stopped and once again contemplated Harry. "I think we'll also wait on the battle robes."
The group continued into Knockturn with their first stop being the magical optometrist. Once Harry's eyesight was corrected and the shoddy glasses properly disposed of, they set their sights on the apothecary.
Both Mia and Harry followed behind Sev as he perused the merchandise. He made several mental notes before stopping at the counter. "Mr. Cynn." He acknowledged the owner. "Is my order ready?"
"It is. Give me a few moments and I'll retrieve it from the store room. Is there anything else you're looking for while I'm back there?"
"Yes. Freely given unicorn blood, phoenix tears, and obsidian bay powder."
A simple nod and the little man disappeared through a door in the rear. As they waited, Sev turned to the pair. "Go ahead and gather the basic potions ingredients you two will need. We should try to avoid having to make another trip so soon."
Mia and Harry sprung into action. Each grabbing a weightless shopping basket before they began selecting items from the shelves. Sev watched as Mia coached Harry on the difference substances and how to determine the quality. Finally they returned to the counter.
"Tony, can you ask if he has any fresh gillyweed and mertock scales? Oh, and some raptor fangs?"
"Yes ma'am I do. I'll be right back." The owner set down the large packets in his hands before turning to a tall cabinet against the wall. Opening the door, Mr. Cynn scanned the contents. Pulling several jars and packets from the depths, he walked back to the group. "Would you like to take a look?" He questioned Mia.
"That's quite alright Mr. Cynn. I trust your judgment and your private stock." She gave him a large toothy smile. "Just charge everything to my vault."
Pulling a small cloth sack from his pocket, Severus enlarged it before filling it with the potion ingredients. Closing it, he gave Mia a contemplative look. Smirking back at him, Hermione held out her hand, taking the bag from Sev.
"Thank you for everything sir. It was a pleasure doing business with you." Both Hermione and Harry gave their farewells as they once again followed behind Sev as they departed from the store.
As they walked through the alley, Severus spoke up. "I believe we should wait until a more opportune time for the wands."
The younger pair gave him a searching look. "Why?" ventured Harry.
"Both of you need to reach your magical majority. The wand will then be more attuned to your magic and will decrease the risk of loss through a large magical change."
Hermione's head nodded in agreement while Harry's puzzlement grew. "That's possible?"
"Oh yes. Life's circumstances can often lead to life altering changes in people. This can also affect one's magic. A wand made from "Light" components will no longer channel magic correctly for someone with a darkened mindset. Also, any dark magic performed with said wand would be weaker."
"That's amazing. I've never thought about the composition of the wand in regards to the wizard."
"Not many do. Why don't you two go ahead and start looking at familiars? The store is the last one on the corner. I'll join you in about twenty minutes." He pointed to a green shop down the way as he spoke. Harry and Mia nodded and set off on their own.
Severus waited until they were safely inside before walking the short distance to a dark, dank store. Pushing the door open, he was greeted by bright lights and sparkling counters.
"Tony! So good to see you again!" a deep voice called out. A light haired gentleman stepped around the counter to embrace Sev. "What can I do for you today?"
"It's good to see you again as well Nicolai. I'm looking for a set of bonding rings."
"I have two different sets." Nicolai motioned to a far glass counter. "Here is the first set." A pair of platinum bands rested against the ivory silk.
"They look very plain."
"Ah but they will change to fit not only the recipient but to the pair as well. Each ring will be a unique piece."
"Excellent. I'll take that set then." He watched as Nicolai carefully wrapped the jewelry in the silk making sure not to touch any of the pieces. This small silk bundle was then placed in a velvet pouch that was tied off and then handed to Severus who placed it within his robes. "Please just charge it to my account."
Nicolai agreed. "Anything else?"
"Not at this moment but I'm sure I'll be back soon. Thank you again Nicolai." Severus exited and made his way to where his mates where.
Inside the little animal menagerie Hermione and Harry were astounded at the amount of creatures within. Neither knew where to begin. Feeling a tug at his magic, Harry surrendered to it and wandered away. Twisting through the crazy aisles, he inspected the different animals he passed. Many of the snakes were disgruntled at being kept in a glass prison. The pull led him towards the back of the store. He stood before a dark large iron cage. A set of amethyst eyes glowed from within the bars.
Harry turned to find the keeper. "Excuse me sir." He called.
The man quickly walked to his side. "Yes?"
"Can you tell me about the creature in this cage?" He pointed to the darkened cage.
"This is a Shadkal. Or a Shadow Jackal. Originally from Egypt, they are thought to have been the mystic guards for the pharaohs. They are extremely protective of their human familiars."
Harry turned back to the set of eyes. The two stared unblinking at each other. "I'll take him." Reaching down he unlocked the cage. Both the keeper and Harry watched as the darkness began to swirl around the cage. Soon a large black jackal stood before them. Ears erect, the jackal elegantly stepped from the cage and stretched. He then brushed by Harry as a cat before turning and sniffing his hand. Appearing to be satisfied the jackal then sat regally at Harry's feet.
The keeper's jaw dropped. "That is the first time I've ever seen his true form. The cage has always just contained the darkness."
"Is there anything else I need to know or will need?" Questioned Harry.
Shrinking the cage, the store clerk handed over. "He eats meat but other than that no."
Harry, new familiar in tow, began to search for Hermione.
Hermione followed the strong pull on her magic towards the reptilian section. She marveled at the diversity of the different species. Finally the insistent pulling brought her to a large glass case. Inside rested an all black snake. Dark sapphire orbs stared at her from within. Looking around for any information on the reptile, she noticed a small card attached to the glass.
Magical Saw Scaled Viper
Origins: Egypt
Abilities: Camouflages self to environment
Poisonous venom
She continued to look at the snake. A sudden urge to touch the creature gripped her. Maintaining her sight on it, she boldly lifted the top of the terrarium off and reached in. With a lightning like flash, the snake slithered up her arm and settled around her neck. Flicking its tongue several times, the snake tested her scent. Finally it relaxed and snuggled its head beneath her chin.
Slightly unhinged, Hermione stroked the snake's long body. She replaced the top to the tank and began to look for someone to help her. As she walked she again felt the call of magic upon hers. Giving in she changed directions following the pull. This time she stood in front of a large covered something.
"What did you find Mia?" She jumped as Harry's voice came from nowhere. Slowly she turned and faced him.
"Well I found this beauty," she said stroking the snake. Harry's eyes doubled in size.
"Wow! I'm impressed. Mind if I talk to it?" Mia waved him on.
"Hello there. Do you have a name?"
The snake's head bobbed a bit. "I am called Ra." The snake tested the air around Harry. "You are my mistress' mate. How do you know to speak the ancient language?"
"I'm not sure exactly."
Harry returned his attention to Mia who stood transfixed at the sight of Harry and her snake talking. "Her name is Ra." Reaching out, he gave Ra a little stroke on her head.
Hermione gave a little squeak. "It feels like she's purring!" The two took a few more minutes with Ra before getting back on task.
"Did you find anything James?" Mia asked.
"Oh yes." Harry directed her to the Jackal. "I haven't decided on a name for him yet."
Hermione oohed and ahhed over him. "He's simply gorgeous! It'll be interesting to see what they can do." Pointing to the large covered object she asked "I've been drawn to whatever is underneath this. Could you find someone to help?"
"Of course," Harry spun on the spot to find the store keeper from earlier. A minute later he returned with the clerk. Stopping next to Hermione he asked about the covered object.
"This is a very mysterious creature. Arrived here last summer from the Amazon. The captors told me to keep her out of sunlight as it was harmful to her. I believe she's a phantom panther. Not much else I can tell you."
Thanking the keeper, she turned back to the crate. "Well that leaves me with a large predicament."
Before Harry could respond, Sev's voice asked. "What's that?" Motioning to the crate, Mia explained. "Why not make arrangements to pick it up this evening? Or I can have a few of the elves come get it?"
The tension left Mia's shoulders. "That would be fabulous Tony. Is there anything else we need while we're here?"
Severus and Harry both shook their heads. Tracking down the store keeper one last time, the group paid for their familiars and supplies and made arrangements for the evening pick up of the panther.
Exhausted the group left the store. Stopping back by DGP, they picked up their robes before traveling through the alleys back to the Leaky Cauldron and the entrance to the muggle world. Only after they had climbed safely back into the limo and on their way to the Granger's residence did the tension seep from their limbs. A small wave of his hand and Severus removed the glamour from Harry before all three relaxed into the seat, content with the silence as they traveled.
At the Granger residence, Simone and Levi were finishing up the final touches on packing the necessary items for the summer. Using demonic powers, the couple had all the necessary items packed in four small suitcases waiting by the door. The pair retreated to the kitchen to wait for the rest of the group and for a spot of tea.
"How do you think this summer is going to go?" Levi's voice penetrated through her mental fog
"I think a lot of changes are going to happen. Knowing Mia she's already got the whole vacation planned out. We'll have to ask her about it when they arrive."
"You know that nothing will be the same after this. Our little girl is growing up." Levi hung his head at the thought.
"She's always going to need her daddy, Levi." Simone rubbed his back as they nursed their teas. They continued to discuss the last several months and everything they entailed as they finished the tea.
Simone was just replacing the set in the cabinets when the trio arrived.
"Ready Mom? Dad?" Hermione called.
"Coming! Go ahead and get in the car you three." Answered Simone.
The triad and Dan patiently waited in the limousine as Levi and Simone cast a few last protection wards on the house as well as locking the door the muggle way.
Comfortably ensconced in the vehicle Hermione voiced her troubled thoughts. "What are our plans for dinner?"
Harry struggled to contain his laughter before releasing a large guffaw. "Is that really what the constipated look was all about? Dinner?"
"Hush you." Swatting his arm, she looked to the adults.
"Any suggestions?'
Simone waited until Harry had quieted down. "Harry what would you like?"
A red hue began to creep up Harry's neck. "I'm not quite sure. I've never been to a restaurant before."
An awkward silence fell over the group. A large warm hand grasped one of Harry's as the other lifted his chin. Pained filled emerald eyes met compassionate black.
Severus spoke in a soothing low tone. "Harry you have no reason to be ashamed or embarrassed. Those miscreants you resided with are to be blamed. Both Mia and I are here for you as well as Simone and Levi." Ensuring Harry understood, he then pulled the younger man into a hug.
Bewildered by his professer's actions at first, Harry soon relaxed into the embrace.
"Is there anything you might be interested in trying? Chinese? Italian? French?" Sev whispered in his ear.
"Could we try Japanese? I've heard about those places where they cook right in front of you?" Came a small hesitant reply.
"Certainly." Still clutching the small teen, Severus glanced at the others. Both Simone and Hermione were wiping tears from their eyes as Levi rubbed their backs. Only the red flames flickering in his eyes gave proof to the demon lord's murderous thoughts.
"Harry has requested a Japanese steakhouse. How about Sapporo?"
"Sounds fabulous." Levi pushed the intercom. "Dan, please call ahead to the Sapporo for a private table and chef."
"Yes sir."
Settling back in his seat, Levi joined the discussion his wife and daughter were having concerning her new familiars. All three casting looks at the small figure cuddled against Sev's chest.
Thankful for Mia's insight to her best friend, Severus returned his attention to Harry. After a few moments, Harry looked up at him. "Thank you sir."
"Its Sev and no thanks are necessary. Just relax."
"Okay Sev." Harry gave him a small shy smile. Mia covertly watched as Harry returned to his own seat, never missing as the younger man casually rested against Sev. Giving her parents a nod, she guided the conversation to include Sev and Harry.
It was not long before Dan was opening the door in front of a large building. "Sapporo."
The group departed from the limo. Levi turned to the chauffer. "Once you've parked the car, come join us Dan."
Dinner was a very spirited affair. With the exception of Dan, the rest of the group indulged in traditional Japanese saki and beer. Both Hermione and Sev ordered several dishes of sushi which was passed around. Placing Harry between the two, they quickly ensured he was pampered in every way imaginable. Soon the group was back in the limo and on the road.
Harry spent the remaining portion of the ride deep in thought. Around him the others were caught up in conversation; Levi and Simone about the demonic world's place in the war and Severus and Hermione about Harry.
Making a mental decision, Harry took in the others before giving a small smile. A real family at last! Kicking back in the seat he relaxed against Sev and watched the landscape fly by.