Yawl know the drill.
Last time: Dumbledore received word that a trial is to commence after the hearing. The hearing is being prepared for and they are getting ready for the proceedings to take place. What will happen now?
I know last chapter was probably a little confusing concerning the Tsunade part, but here let me explain. Tsunade understanding from a file that she read thanks to Snape has decided that the hearing wasn't enough to support Haku, so she initiated a trial to take place immediately after however, the orders still stand once this is over, go home and stay put until ordered.
Hermione skid from the broom like her life depended on it. Harry was amused never before has he seen that reaction. Hermione looked up at him and glared at his stupid looking smug face.
"Mione, come on quit making that face, you'd look better if you smile. Now, come on we're almost there."
Hermione huffed, but followed.
"Harry... What?" They stopped in a cave that had an underground garden. Since when was this on Hogwarts grounds? "It's beautiful."
Harry looked sheepish as he answered. "Well, it was an accident really….."
The hearing was vastly approaching too fast for anyone. No one could rest and talk as freely as they wanted the Weasley's, although happy to see the Potters could not enjoy it for long.
Harry was nervous as the days passed and butterflies crept in his stomach. The day finally came and it was chaos as the Weasley's, and Potter's prepared to leave.
"No, Sirius! You can't come not with the-Molly started, but.
"Dumbledore said it was ok, "Sirius interjected.
"No, it was to attend the trial not the hearing!" Moly fussed over the former Marauder's arguments. "And, that's final!"
Lupin placed his hand over his best friend's shoulders. "Come on buddy, let's leave the support to the Weasley's and we can do that here."
With a reluctant sigh Sirius relented.
When they entered court room ten, Harry felt nauseous. This was the very court in which he had his hearing in August. Amelia Bones's ministry's law enforcement head was there along with several in which Harry hasn't seen before. Seats were filled as they entered Haku and Zabuza were on one side alongside Tsunade, two elderly people that must have been her adoptive parents and figments in which Harry could make out that they were people in cloaks (they were completely invisible to others which was a feat Harry even saw them being who they all were), but the other person was definitely the Ministry's Japanese branch.
"We are gathered here today in order for the Potters' proceeding of a taking in their children Harry Potter and …" The spokesman didn't see a last, but a first- "Miss Haku who has brought along here adoptive parents. The spokesman gestured towards the two elderly people who looked to be in their thirties. He coughed, "We have in our court today with us the headmistress and well known Lady-Tsunade and the ministry of Japan's branch, Margaret Silvia de Garget." He coughed again, introducing who was sitting on the Potter's end. "Now, then we shall have this court hearing commence!" He slammed the hammer on the desk signaling that it has started.
"Will defense, Molly Weasley stand and give us reason to why these – The Potter's should take back their children after fifteen years of being comatose?" Amelia Bones ordered.
Molly stood rather shakily, but held her ground as she spoke, "I am pleased your honor. The Potter's are just as thrilled as we are and Harry is a good boy, has grown up with harsh parenting. I am aware of this having heard from own sons and daughter –
Harry didn't know she knew such things. Great were Ron and Ginny tale telling? He didn't want anyone to know how he lived with the Dursley's and... He didn't remember ever telling them! So, how did Mrs. Weasley know?
"As, I recall, Mrs. Weasley I asked you a question and I expect it to be answered. So, I'll ask you again, why do you think that the Potter's after fifteen years should take their two children?"
"They are good people. All they want is to be the family in which they couldn't," Molly answered and Amelia hit the hammer down. "Enough, Mr. Potter do you agree with Molly Weasley?"
"Yes, I and my wife just want the family that we missed out on." Amelia turned towards Lily to see her nod with her husband.
Amelia looked back forward and folded her hands. "Harry James's Potter do you agree with the defense and your parent's? Do you wish for the same?"
"Yes, your honor I do."
Smiles and grins spread on several people's faces however; Amelia ordered the court to be silence. "Disjoined fifteen minute break feel free to talk among your-selves."
Fifteen agonizing minutes, Arthur informed them that the judges were talking among themselves to determine if Harry would be living with his parents, but… "I don't get why did they just ask me, and not Haku? She's family as well."
"I don't know dear, perhaps they can only ask one child at a time."
XX…
"When did you two decide to take in your children?" Amelia asked the two parents once they all returned to the court room.
"A few days after we awakened, your honor," Lily answered.
"And, how old are they?"
"The both of them are fifteen," James's answered.
Amelia really looked at them. "And, tell me, "She looked down reading some files. "How is that you remain as you both are? The reports here have claimed that you have been comatose for fifteen years."
"Are you saying because of that we can't take in our children?!" James's seethed.
"Enough!" Amelia slammed hammer down. "Control your temper, Mr. Potter. No, we are all very curious to that- Is it a side effect to being a survivor of the Avada Kedavra?"
"Yes, we asked the same question and have come to that conclusion as well, your honor."
Once again Amelia studied them. Then after what felt like seconds on end she spoke, "Mr. Takayuchi- the man stood. "You and your wife has taken care of Miss Haku even with her traveling, supporting even. If the Potter's were to take their daughter back would you be ok with it?"
His voice was gruff, deep and sounded to his age. "Your honor, with all due respect that decision does not rely with us. Haku-Chan is the one to give you the answer to that. We firmly believe in her –
"Objection, "Molly stood up. "A child-
Slam!
"Very well, Miss Haku Takayuchi... "Something told her that last name didn't feel right however, "Do you feel that if you were to go with your parents that you would be glad with?" Amelia had done many court cases similar to this in her life however; it was the first time that it has been done in front of the speechless ministry members beside her.
Haku stood staring at the judge, Amelia Bones. The witnesses/ supporters, Lily and James's and Harry waited with bated breath. "Your honor, I will be honest with you. Put yourself in my shoes, if you were living happily for fifteen years and then so suddenly the wind blows brining along a letter and news of you having a family that you have never heard of, would you eagerly accept everything and pack it all… leaving the life that meant so much to you?"
"Your logic makes since, but my question still stand, Ms. Takayuchi."
"No, I would not. I am content with my life that I have and the people that are in it."
Before outcries could swivel and burst like Tsunami's, Amelia called for another break. "Minister Garget and Lady- Tsunade I will like to speak to you two, please."
While the others waited once more again on opposite sides of the waiting rooms, Amelia got straight to the point. "Minister I am honored to have you attend for one of your own and Lady Tsunade I show the same regards. However, if this case is to go in smoothly I need information."
Tsunade crossed her arms and smirked. "So, you've figured out that something wasn't right."
Amelia's eyes narrowed. "Isn't right?" She then huffed. "Out of all my years of working here, I have seen many cases, but not one in which a deceased couple are suddenly back wanting to raise their children."
Tsunade was pleased. This woman and her could be good friends, "I see."
"I don't care for the whole story; I just want the real reason as to why she refuses so strongly and why so many have come to support her, while just as many came to support them."
"Ruling a country is indeed difficult," the minister interjected. "And, receiving help from – he gestured to Tsunade, "Lady Tsunade and her people is a blessing in which we were happy to lend our help on and we will do it again doing the trial that is to come. Lady-Tsunade is it alright?"
XX…
Twenty minutes later, the hearing was called back into session. Really this wasn't supposed to drag on. So, Harry thought. How long was it to decide between yes, and no?
"I will know call the jurors to give in their vote. Should they be allowed to take in their children? Or should they live as they are now? Remember, this decision counts for them however, I will speak now. In favor of events and certain protocols – You are given the question concerning both children however; choose your choices very carefully.
Some minds were easy to read. Why chose the girl when the boy is the true savior? Others were neutral on the matter, others were staying both should go with their parents, and the other were saying it was up to them.
She received the results from the sound of the button. It was like waiting for hours. Amelia looked up at them, "With the votes completed I hereby, declare Lily and James's Potter to have custody of their son, Harry James's Potter. However, Ms. Haku Takayuchi's hearing will continue towards the trial. Dismissed!"
Slam!
Harry was grinning broadly with hot his friends. James's swung an arm over his shoulders grinning from ear to ear.
"Can't believe mate," Ron breathed as he congratulated them with his family grinning just like Harry.
"I am sorry," Molly apologized. "But, it must be good to have one of them- the group stop talking once hearing- more like trying to hear most of the conversation, but couldn't understand.
"I thank you both," Tsunade spoke.
"It was no trouble, "Mrs. Takayuchi spoke smiling bowing slightly. "We were glad to assist you, my lady."
"No, I have your payment for doing this and if you need our services just notify us immediately."
The Takayuchi's nodded turning to leave just as Tsunade turned towards Haku and Zabuza. ""As of now the trial is still located in our homeland. This mess is over, go home and wait till I give the order."
Haku nodded for them both and headed towards the Takayuchi's before they would leave with the minister Garget.
"Yes, Haku- Chan," Haku smiled and hugged the brown haired woman who bravely did what she did. "Arigato."
"You're welcome dear, we are always happy to help a ninja who is willing to help us. If you ever stop by in Japan's magical district 46* than please stop by, dear." Mrs. Takayuchi said smiling genuinely and released the teen/adult as Haku bowed once more in thanks and respect for them.
"Until we meet again, Haku-Chan," Mr. Takayuchi a broad man with light brown hair and violent eyes said waving goodbye as they turned to leave with the minister.
Tsunade left. "Harry-kun," Harry turned form the crushing hug that Molly was giving him. No, in fact the Weasley's and Lily and James have turned to look at Haku. "Congratulations. Everyone the trial is to take place soon, in order to help in with arrangements you will be staying at my home. Someone will be there to help you get there after taking the plane. I hope to see you all then," she turned to leave, but.
"Wait Haku, why did you say that as if you-
"You'll find out soon."
XX.23…
The unyielding road was crossed in silence as Zabuza and Haku headed towards their cottage home. Flourishing; tall grass like strands and small animals were scurrying about in the field- like area. Seeing the small tannish like fence Zabuza unhook the lock without a word and opened the wooden gate, before closing it and walking towards the light white cottage.
It was silent as they entered. No one spoke, it was tangible. Haku walked down on the tatami mats and opened the shoji door then exiting heading down the halls towards their room.
Zabuza ran a hand through his hair. Damn it that was a close one. Placing his weapon against the wall and removing his clothing, he headed out the shoji's doors towards their room.
The room like nearly everything in the house was the color of Berkshire beige and/ or white with light colored furniture.
"Haku," he called softly yet, deeply. Haku didn't answer moving about as she placed her headband protector in the whited colored draw, setting out some clothes and turning- "Haku."
Zabuza walked over halting Haku in her tracks. "Would you stop for a moment? Haku, just listen will you." He was trying to be as gentle as possible if it wasn't for that Bones's lady taking their side the hearing would-
Zabuza turned Haku around and stopped. She leaned into him. Flesh tears fell down his bared body as his arms went up on Haku's frame hugging her tightly, before releasing her slightly so she was looking at him drying the tears away. His other hand cupped her chin; emotions swirled in their eyes, but the realization that they weren't separating that they were going to be apart was the main drive that drove them closer locking their lips.
He almost lost her. Not, once, but trice! Twice was enough he could have handled, but to let it nearly happen again- Zabuza 's hand rested around Haku's lower back while the other rested behind her nape deepening the kiss, putting more feeling – no the passion and love that he felt.
The armbands that was a magical device created by the science ninja and the magic branch glowed on Zabuza's wrist, reading his thoughts as it did whatever its owner wished-gladly since the owner never really used the armband in the first place.
A tear fell down Haku's cheeks as she kissed back equally returning what Zabuza gave her. It was swift how their hands moved, but yet it was oddly slow to them as they pulled apart, but the contact was renewed and Zabuza pulled her back to him as they simultaneously went down on the futon.
Never again were they going to go through shite like this. Gatou was the straw line as well as when Kakashi pulled that stunt. Although, Zabuza idly noted as he paid extra attention to what made her back arch and cry pleasurably- he needed to pay that scarecrow back for that hell.
The next morning Zabuza was the first to wake as his arms were wrapped protectively around soft skin. Ah, right that damn hearing which had them on edge was cleared and would continue during the trial. Just thinking of another hassle had the demon of the bloody mist gritting his shark –like teeth in anger.
He looked down at the sleeping beauty beside him and uncurled himself making sure not to wake her and got out the futon grabbing his clothes which surprisingly weren't all over the place and dressed in his pants; closing the shoji screen door lightly.
It was time to get ready for the normal routine. Zabuza walked down the halls and entered another shoji door closing afterwards, grabbing towards his Kubikiribōchō he headed outside towards a small area to train.
Haku woke up slowly, yesterday coming back to her mind and so was the comfort that last night brought. Last night! Haku shot up, but realized she shouldn't have done feeling oddly exposed.
Quickly finding her clothes she draped them on and was about to slide open the door when Zabuza stood there, sword behind his back, no shirt, but not really pants either. He raised a brow looking at her.
Haku blushes and turned around to head towards the bathroom as if mechanically. Watching her back with an amuse air, Zabuza just chuckled. She would need to talk to him eventually after all; last night wasn't just something to push over.
Haku came out fifteen minutes refreshed and dressed in a simple purple kimono with white swirls. Zabuza followed her out their room and into the kitchen where he placed his sword against the wall.
He watch Haku dig in the fridge taking out breakfast first then walking over towards a shoji door that that led to the cooler taking out some lunch to cook for the day. She didn't even go through the kitchen like she usually did when they came back home.
"Haku," Haku chopped a sausage into small pieces. Oh, hell no, not this again! "Haku, "Zabuza called again with an edge in his voice. Haku stopped slowly turning her head to face him, but didn't really look at him and that just made Zabuza even more ticked.
"Come sit, we need to talk."
Placing the pieces in the pot, Haku walked with her head down and sat. "Look at me, Haku. "It was gentle yet firm. Haku looked up determined not to let her emotions show. "I'll get straight to it. I changed and so have you, but you know just the same and I'll tell you now. When it comes to you Haku," he paused to see that she had his full attention.
He did change; it was always to live life by the next mission, to straighten her into the perfect tool, to make his goals true. Cutting down anyone who got in his way that didn't change, but those nights when he needed an outlet- Haku was not them and after that hellish week of waiting for Tsunade to walk into the village while she lay there unconscious between life and death- He oddly wondered if he was the one who needed polishing; polishing to become a better man.
"I'm willing to do anything to keep you by side."
Such a true statement it was…..words that befitted a man who wasn't going to give up without a fight. Zabuza stared at Haku keeping their eyes locked. They shared many things together, but a few nights ago with the sake-driven kiss and now this. Haku closed her eyes a smile spreading across her features.
She could see it. The truth the hidden hurt he had felt those months ago, but within that there was regret hidden. But on top of all that Haku saw a man that she thought was so flawless shown his pieces that weren't so flawless, saw what made him human, what made her love him so much.
"I'm not going anywhere, Zabuza –san, "Haku's eyes shined as her smile redefied tenfold. And, Zabuza chuckled seeing no lie only seeing the truth. She wasn't going anywhere and Zabuza knew if he messed up, or something terrible happened he-
He found himself standing next to Haku cracking the eggs. No words were exchanged as they fixed breakfast together because no words were needed. Neither of them was using each other for gain, it was love and trust.
Day after…
The excitement lasted as Sirius and Remus reunited with their friends. It was so good to see them and be...Just a family of friends. The Weasley's and Hermione was there celebrating along with them. Moody who didn't go to the hearing (sudden emergency) went to give his condolences as well.
However, it was ruined when Snape entered. "You need to gather the Dursley's and pack up. I will not repeat this more than I need so listen carefully. Do not pack a luggage that rivals the mountains. We are staying there for the two weeks until the trial takes place.
"But, why are we all leaving? And, why are leaving so early? It only takes less than two days to get to Japan by flight, "Hermione supplied.
He looked directly at Lily and James's when he answered, "Because that might be the only chance you have to spent with Haku. You have two hours," and like that he was gone.
Lily, James's and Harry went to retrieve the Dursley's who putted up a protest however; Petunia putted up her chin and said, "We're going."
The two Dursley's men could not argue and when they were finished packing after Petunia reassured her husband once more, Vernon drove them to the airport reluctantly.
"Lily, "Molly greeted with a quick hug. ""It's good to see you again, and you must be the Dursley's a pleasure to meet you all. I' am Molly Weasely," Petunia greeted her with a rather rude, 'like wise.'
They heeded the plane, placing their bags next to them while Sirius and Lupin talked to James. However, you could just feel the tension that was surrounding the plane.
"I don't get it," Sirius muttered as he sat crossed legged leaning against the seat. "Why was Haku's hearing undecided? As, for all I know the ministry has never done that before."
Lupin didn't answer, frantically he didn't know himself. Just then as the Weasley were conversing amongst themselves with Harry and Hermione, Dudley glowered. That freak was lucky to be surrounded by his freak friends.
A woman dressed in business clothing holding a box walked over towards them and stopped immediately in front of them. The Dursley's just watched carefully. "Will all wizards and Witches present please place your wands into the box..."
"Wait," Arthur the more respective and collected of the bunch began. "Who are you, miss-?
"My name is Sereia and as ordered I am to confiscate your wands. Procedures for all outsiders who wish to come to our country," Lily flinched somewhat remembering what Haku said.
She got up and placed her wand in the box and sat back down in her seat. "It's best we do it, remember we are not in England anymore."
The Dursley's inwardly smirked. Ha! Served those freaks right! Ron muttered something unintelligible as he handed over his wand. The woman bowed, "I thank you for your cooperation. You shall have them back soon." That was the only relief that Harry and the others had because without their wands they felt like muggles… vulnerable.
But little did they know their wands weren't going to be return until the trial was over.
Oh, my. What will happen next? Where is Snape if he isn't on the plane with them? What will happen as they travel to Haku's cottage home? How will the two weeks before the trial go? And, finally what will happen at the trial?
District 46- think of it as you will, but it is the name from Bleach.
Takayuchi's ( credit goes to SakuraLisel) a magical family who run a shop selling various items; their son was saved from the execution laws that would have followed since he worked with Onigumo's company. (A/N: the company not the mansion that was destroyed during the Onigumo mission).
Amelia Bones- seems to trust Dumbledore and Harry, but was suspicious and the ministry does have their own ways to go around certain spells.
Until, next time!