Harry's Future

by swissdog

A possible continuation of the last book of the Harry Potter series suggested by event in the last chapter and the epilogue

8. Chapter 8

Harry's Future, Part 8

A knock on the door pulled Harry out of his reverie. While his eyes had been fixed on the open file folder on his desk, his mind was elsewhere. The events of the weekend just past were playing over and over again in his mind. His proposal to Ginny, her acceptance and the day long series of congratulations and well-wishes kept a slight smile on his face. But this was nothing compared to the feelings that swirled through him as he recalled the first night that he and Ginny had spent together. A night that lasted well into the next morning. It was all so, well, for a lack of a better word, magical. But now he had to put those thoughts aside and concentrate on the matters at hand. He looked up at the door and said,

"Come on in."

The door swung open and Milligan, the newly appointed leader of the newly established Magical Investigation Unit, or MIU, stepped in.

"Do you have a few minutes, sir? I have some information you might want to know about."

"Sure, have a seat," Harry replied.

Milligan was carrying a folder of his own and he laid it on the desk in front of Harry as he sat down.

"It seems that the fears of the Diagon Alley shop owners are not unwarranted. Five businesses in Knockturn Alley have changed hands in the past few weeks. In at least two cases that we can find, the previous owner or owners have disappeared since the change. What we can't tell is whether it's because of foul play or they just took the money and moved somewhere, but there's no trace of them."

"Do we know anything about who's acquiring the businesses?" Harry asked.

"That's where it gets interesting. We have the one individual you picked up on under surveillance day and night. It's seems like he never leaves the Alley. So either he's operating alone or he has some means of communicating or traveling that we aren't aware of…yet," Milligan replied. "But there is something odd. You know that smash and grab thief you bagged?"

"Yes."

"Took a while for us to find out what was going on with him. He's not all there if you know what I mean. Has a big scar running along the side of his head under his hair. Looks like some kind of head injury. Not a lot of detail on him but what we have found out is he's out of Eastern Europe, possibly from Durmstrang, maybe fifteen or twenty years ago and for a couple of weeks before the robbery he was seen a few times in Knockturn Alley. We think he might have a connection with our friend buying up the shops. Asking him direct questions doesn't get much of anything worthwhile but if you sit and talk to him about different things, it comes out in bits and pieces. Those two that were lent to us by Magical Catastrophes have proven to be very good at it. We're hoping another week or so will give us more definitive information. It's too bad we can't just pry the top of his head off and root around to find out what he knows," the last said with a sardonic grin.

"No, we aren't about to try something like that, physically or magically," Harry said. "But it does give me a thought. Where are you holding him?"

"He's downstairs in the holding area. We have him sitting in the cell keepers' lounge. It seems to keep him relaxed and there's an investigator with him at all times and guards watching from outside. Do you want to talk to him?" Milligan asked.

"No, but I would like to see him," Harry replied thoughtfully.

"You're the boss. Now?"

"Yes, better sooner than later," Harry said as he stood up.

He followed Milligan out of his office and they walked down the corridor to the nearest elevator that they then took down to the holding area that was adjacent to the courtroom that Harry had become familiar with some years ago. A heavy door was pulled open and revealed a long narrow corridor that had a number of doors on either side. The first one on the left had a guard sitting outside on a stool. As Harry approached he stood up.

Milligan went to the door and slowly slid the small panel back that otherwise blocked the viewport. He stood back and gestured for Harry to step up. He did and as he looked into the room he saw the thief sitting at a small table, some cards and a few magazines spread out in front of him. Across from him sat an unremarkable looking wizard in drab robes with a small notebook in front of him. The two were having a quiet conversation and at one point the investigator jotted a brief note on the page in front of him. Harry looked around the room to fix a few details in his mind and then he nodded.

"That should do it, Milligan. Thanks," Harry said.

"Do you mind if I ask what 'it' is, sir?"

"I don't mind if you ask, but I'm not going to tell you just yet. I want to check something first. If it works, you'll find out fast enough. If it doesn't you won't have had time to figure out I'm crazy or something."

Milligan just looked at Harry.

"I'm going to be gone for most of the day. If I have anything for you by the end of it I'll come find you," Harry said.

"Yes, sir," Milligan replied.

Harry nodded and then headed back toward the elevator and took it up to the lobby. From there he Disapparated from the Ministry. He popped into place just to the side of the entrance to the Memorial Park outside of Hogsmeade. He paused to look through the arched gateway and down the road where the first few gravesites were visible. With a sigh he turned and began the walk up to the entrance of the school. As it was a school day he wasn't surprised not to see anyone outside the building and Harry proceeded alone up to the main entrance and used the heavy knocker. He waited for a few moments and then heard the latch being thrown aside and the heavy door being pulled open.

"Who is it banging on the door?" called the gravelly, disgruntled voice of Filch.

"It's Harry Potter, here to see the Headmistress, please," Harry replied, keeping his voice even and polite.

"Wha'? Potter you say, so, come back to stir up some trouble, Potter?"

"Not at all, Mr. Filch. I would just like to speak to the Head if I may?"

The aging, gnarled little man looked Harry up and down and then waved him in through the door.

"You know the way to the Head's office, better then most," was all Filch said as he walked away and left Harry alone.

Harry could only shake his head and smile. No matter how much things change, some things and some people remain constant. He began the climb up the staircase that led to Professor McGonagall's office. A number of greetings were called out from various portraits he passed along the way. He was just at the top of the stairs when the voice of Sir Cadogan, the hyper aggressive knight, called to him.

"Abate thy pace, Sir Harry. The Headmistress sends word that she is on her way and wishes to meet you here."

"Thank, Sir Cadogan. I'll be happy to," Harry said as he looked at the small, normally belligerent, metal clad wizard who was looking out from the incongruous scene of witches and wizards strolling along a wooded lane.

"It's very good to see you again, Sir Cadogan. I hope you are keeping well."

"Aye, well enough in these times, good sir. Things are a bit placid since you laid that scoundrel low but occasionally an ill mannered student needs to be pulled up short and taught a thing or two about chivalrous behavior."

"Harry. Harry Potter," called the familiar voice of the Headmistress. "It's so good to see you, but I thought you weren't due here until next Tuesday."

"That's right, Professor. I'm not here for a lecture. This is business," he said quietly.

"Hmm, this sounds serious. Come walk with me and we'll find someplace quiet to talk. My thanks to you, Sir Cadogan, for delivering my message."

"It was an honor to assist you, Headmistress," the little knight said as he bowed, clanking as he did.

"Oh, and I understand congratulations are in order. Word of your engagement to Ms. Weasley spread through the castle like wildfire on Saturday. Bill Weasley confirmed it this morning," the Headmistress said with a small smile.

"Thank you, Professor. In fact, the source of that information is why I'm here. I'd like to speak to Abagail Westwood if I can."

"Is there something amiss with her, Harry?" Professor McGonagall said with genuine concern.

"Not with her but there is a problem that her particular talent might prove useful with," Harry said.

"Hmmm, well I don't know where she is at this moment, Harry, but it's only half an hour until lunch. Why don't we head down to the Great Hall and wait for her there. Perhaps you can explain what the problem is. We've been working with Abagail quite a bit to try and determine the extent of her talent," Professor McGonagall said.

"Sounds like a good idea, Professor. I hope that includes an invitation for lunch. It's been a while since breakfast," Harry said with a smile.

The Headmistress just laughed as they continued down to the Hall. As they entered the Hall there was a scattering of students making use of the long tables for study or game playing during a free period. Harry's entrance created a stir and while the presence of the Headmistress forced a certain restraint there were still many called out welcomes and offered hands from those that Harry passed walking down the aisle between the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw tables. Harry smiled and waved and shook a few hands. The Head led him up to the faculty table and they sat down.

"Now, Harry, can you tell me what's going on that Miss Westwood might be able to help you with?"

Harry began to explain what was going on in Knockturn Alley and what the best guesses were. He also emphasized that some unknown persons had been sighted in Hogsmeade. He then laid out what he had in mind as far as Abagail was concerned. Professor McGonagall nodded her head.

"I think you've got the right of it by tying yourself into what you're trying to do. As best as Professor Dumbledore and I have been able to work out, her strongest, clearest visions involve you, Harry. We don't know what the link is, but it's there. She's able to see all manner of things if she thinks about them but it's almost like an open corridor exists between you two."

"Hmmm, I'm not so sure that's a good thing, but I'll worry about that later. Right now, I just want to try and get to the bottom of this thing before it gets too far," Harry said.

They chatted for a bit more until the elevated level of noise in the corridors leading to the Great Hall alerted Harry and the Professor to the approach of the student body. Harry couldn't help but smile at the image of his younger self hurtling along those same halls with Ron, Hermione and the rest of the Gryffindors of his year. The students who were already in the Hall cleared away their books and games as the rest poured into the Hall and made their way to the tables. Harry kept an eye out for a particular student and soon saw a familiar head of dark hair bobbing in and out of sight, often disappearing as a taller student got in the way. Abagail had not gained much in height in the two years since Harry had first met her. It was quite likely that she would remain physically small while possessing a very large talent. Harry was still looking in her direction when some students moved away to take their seats and she looked up toward the faculty table. When their eyes met Harry smiled and Abagail's eyes went wide, her face lighting up in a huge smile. Professor McGonagall waved Abagail to come up to the head table. The tiny child witch rushed toward the dais as Harry stood up and met her at the top of the short stair case.

"Mr. Potter, you're here early. Professor Weasley told us that you'd be coming next Tuesday," Abagail said in her quiet voice.

"He was right, Miss Westwood," Harry said with a smile. "I will be here next week but something happened that made a trip today necessary. Didn't you see me coming?" Harry said with a smile.

"No, I didn't. We've been very busy this morning and with what happened this weekend I guess I sort of tuned you out," she said with a shy smile.

"I need to talk to you about something, Abagail. Can we chat after you finish lunch?"

"Sure, Mr. Potter, I have a free period after lunch."

"Thank you, Abagail. I'll be here when you're done," Harry said.

She flashed Harry a brief smile and dashed back to her place with the Ravenclaw third years. Harry turned back and took an empty seat that Professor McGonagall indicated. He exchanged handshakes and greetings with other faculty members including Hagrid.

"Alright there, Harry?"

"Yes, Hagrid. Everything is going great. How are you?" Harry replied.

"Just great, Harry. Congratulations ta ya and Ginny, that's just wundaful," Hagrid said with a big smile. "Oh yeah, I heard from one of the Centaurs late last week. They're still talkin' about what they want ta do. Summat about the stars and such," he said.

"Thanks, Hagrid. And yeah, Hermione and I thought as much. We'll be patient," he said.

Hagrid smiled under his bushy beard and stumped off to his chair. As the food appeared and everyone began serving themselves and eating Harry let his eyes sweep over the Great Hall. Many of the students looked familiar to him thanks to his work with Bill Weasley and a few of the students noticed him looking and gave tentative waves. Harry would nod and smile when this happened. He gazed up at the ceiling and saw a reflection of the sunny day outside, with a few fluffy clouds drifting across. This room was a central fixture in Harry's life having eaten thousands of meals here and many hours with his friends studying or more likely playing games of wizards chess with Ron. It held other memories as well, such as the bitter days following the fall of Voldemort. He looked down at the long Gryffindor table, towards the far end where the Weasleys had sat consoling each other after the death of Fred. Then his thoughts shifted to his last year as a student when he and Ginny sat side by side everyday for that whole year and he couldn't help but smile. Ginny, his Ginny, the future Mrs. Harry Potter, always brought a smile to his face. A thought began to take shape in his mind. It was an interesting thought and one that he felt was right in many ways.

He continued along this line of consideration as he idly ate the food on his plate. He was snapped back to the here and now when he heard Professor McGonagall calling his name.

"Harry. Harry."

"What? Oh, sorry, Professor. Guess I was daydreaming a bit," Harry said a little sheepishly.

"Yes, I can just imagine. But Miss Westwood is ready for you. We can make use of the closest classroom to start with. Come along."

Harry got up and followed the Headmistress and met Abagail at that bottom of the stairs off the dais. She gave him a little smile and walked along beside him, the top of her head not even reaching to his shoulder. They made their way down the main corridor to a general use classroom. Professor McGonagall ushered them in and closed the door.

"Miss Westwood, Mr. Potter told me he needs your help with something related to his job as Auror Chief. It's something that you and I and Professor Dumbledore have been working on and I'd like you to try and do what you can, alright?"

"Yes, ma'am," came the quiet, almost breathless reply. Abagail shifted in her chair and looked at Harry expectantly.

"Abagail, we are having an issue with some people causing some problems in Knockturn Alley. My investigators have been able to find a few things out but a lot remains unknown. We have one man in custody but he doesn't think very well. We think he hurt his head sometime in the past. I was hoping you might be able to tell me something about him. I saw him this morning. Can you see that?" Harry asked, his voice very soft and quiet, his eyes never leaving Abagail's face.

The diminutive girl looked at Harry, her big dark eyes loosing some of their focus, then her lids falling to cover about half her eyes.

"He's a big man. You are watching him sitting at a table and someone else is sitting with him. They are talking but the conversation doesn't make much sense. The big man just kind of rambles but now and again the other man asks a question or writes down a note," Abagail was saying in a dreamy voice. "You first saw the big man when he came out of the jewelry store with a handful of gold chains. It's the same jewelry store where you proposed to Ginny and bought her that beautiful green ring. It's the same color as your eyes."

Harry coughed and blushed a bit as Professor McGonagall smiled at him.

"The big man had come out of Knockturn Alley. He wasn't supposed to but he did anyway. Another man had yelled at him. You've seen this other man, Mr. Potter. I saw you watching him a while ago. He never seems to leave the Alley. He just goes in and out of all the shops. He makes the shop owners nervous, some are afraid of him. I think he might be related to the big man, they look kind of alike. I'm not sure but I think the one you were watching was the one who caused the other one to hurt his head. I think there's something in one of the stores, they sell potions and strange things in there," Abagail said, her voice drifting as if she was concentrating. "He goes down into the basement and doesn't come back for a long time, hours maybe. Sometimes he looks like he's gotten wet or dirty. I'm pretty sure they aren't from around here, not London, not even England. They talk funny. I can't really see anything else. Maybe if I saw them in person."

"No, Abagail, I don't think I want you to do that. You've been a big help as it is," Harry replied quietly.

Abagail opened her eyes fully and they focused on Harry. She gave him a shy smile.

"You're afraid something might happen to me, aren't you?"

"Yes, Abagail. I would be afraid that something might happen. You've given me a very big clue that I think will be very helpful. Thank you. Do you feel ok?"

"Just a little tired. If I strain too hard I get dizzy, but I don't really have to strain to see you," she said.

"Harry, we've found that Abagail needs to rest a while after one of these sessions. Would you mind sitting with her? I need to dismiss the students from the Great Hall and then I'll bring back some pumpkin juice for her," the Headmistress said.

"Certainly, Professor McGonagall, I'd be glad to. We've got some catching up to do."

The Headmistress left and Harry sat back in his chair looking at Abagail. She sat with her hands folded in her lap looking back at him with her head tilted to one side a bit. Even though she was thirteen she didn't look much changed from the first day they had met.

"How are you getting along here, Abagail? Your classes are going well?" Harry asked.

"Oh, yes, sir. I'm doing quite well. Some of the professors say that I remind them of Ms. Granger in certain ways."

"I've said that myself on occasion," Harry said as he nodded.

"They only thing I'm not doing well with is flying. Madame Hooch has tried but I'm just too small to get the broom to do what I want," the little girl said with disappointment plain in her voice.

"You really want to be able to fly don't you, Abagail?"

"Yes, sir. More then anything. I just hope someday I grow up enough to ride one well."

Hoping to change the direction of the conversation Harry said,

"I got a chance to see your artwork in the ice cream shop the other day, Abagail. You did a wonderful job."

"Oh, thanks, sir. That was a lot of fun. And Ms. Johnson let me have all kinds of treats for free. I used the money she paid me to buy a couple of extra wizarding books."

"That's terrific, Abagail. Do you think you'd like to be an artist when you graduate from Hogwarts?"

"I don't know, sir. There are so many things about magic that I find so interesting. I'm not sure what I will wind up doing. But I know that I'll always be interested in drawing and painting. Even if it's just as a hobby."

At this point Professor McGonagall returned with a large glass full of pumpkin juice and handed it to Abagail. She emptied the glass in three long gulps. When she finished she hiccupped once and giggled, then said in her small voice,

"Wow, I didn't realize how thirsty I was. Do you need me for anything else, Mr. Potter? I'm supposed to meet someone in the library to help them with their potions homework."

"I think we are done for now, Abagail. Thank you for all your help. I'll see you next week when I come back," Harry said, standing up.

The diminutive Ravenclaw stood up and without hesitation stepped up to Harry and gave him a tight hug which he gladly returned.

"Good bye, sir. See you next week. Professor McGonagall?" she asked in way of asking permission to leave.

"On your way, Miss Westwood. We'll talk more later in the week."

"Yes, ma'am," and she dashed out of the room.

Harry and Professor McGonagall watched as she disappeared through the door. The Headmistress looked at Harry,

"So, Mr. Potter. Did that help you in any way?"

"Yes, ma'am. In several ways. I now know that there's a connection between my thief and what's going on in Knockturn Alley and that I have a clue as to how that acquisitive foreign wizard is getting around. Plus it was good to have a chance to see Abagail," he said with a small grin.

"And she was pleased to see you again, Harry. I make sure to take time to talk with her once every other week and she chats with Dumbledore now and again. We are no closer to understanding the source or depth of her talent but at least she knows that we care and she can come to us if she feels troubled or sees something that upsets her. Her school work is right at the top of her class and she seems happy here so for now that's enough," the Headmistress said with a smile. "And she and we have you to thank for that, Harry. I've said this before but your affinity for the students and your teaching talents make you a natural."

"Yes, Professor and don't worry, it's not going to waste. Once we bring in the new recruits I'm sure I'll be doing lots of teaching and I'll still be coming up here. As for the rest, all in good time," Harry said. "Speaking of recruits, I wonder if I might ask a favor of you, Professor."

"I'm afraid I'm a bit along in years to be thinking of changing careers, Potter," she said with a slight grin.

"No, ma'am," Harry chuckled. "I was wondering if I could get your permission to hold the tryouts here. The testers that conduct the OWL and NEWTs will be conducting the tests but I can't think of a place to hold them. Hogwarts would have the space and be out of the way of muggles."

"I think we might be able to arrange something. When did you have in mind, Harry?"

"Mid November," Harry replied.

"Hmm, I'll have a word with Hagrid and see what would work best. Perhaps I should have a word with the Director for testing and see what would be required. We here have an interest in making this work too, Harry. Perhaps more than most."

"Yes, ma'am. Well, I think I've imposed on you enough for one day. I should be getting back to the Ministry."

"Harry, I hope I never live to see the day that anyone here sees you as an imposition. I'll walk you to the front door."

"Thank you, Professor," Harry said as they left the classroom and made their way to the door.

As they passed the entry to the Great Hall Harry looked at the Professor and said,

"Professor, do you know if the Great Hall has ever been used for a wedding before?"

"I'm not aware of any instance where it has but then again the school is far older than I am and I don't know all its history," she said, looking at Harry with a twinkle in her eye. "What did you have in mind, Mr. Potter?"

"There are two places in the world I consider home, Professor. The Burrow and Hogwarts. Bill and Fleur were married at the Burrow. George and Angelina will be as well. I thought I would like to do something special for Ginny."

"I'll look into it and if it's up to me I'll say yes. But I should check with the Board of Governors just to be sure. I leave Ginny and Mrs. Weasley up to you," she said with a wink.

"Thank you, Professor."

"It's the least we could do for you, Harry. I'll send you a message when I get word from the Board."

"Thanks again, Professor McGonagall. I'll see you next week," Harry said as he left through the main doors.

He made his way quickly down through the gates and when he was sure he was clear of the protective spells, he Apparated back to the lobby of the Ministry. He hurried down to the Aurors area and went looking for Milligan. He found him in the break room where most of the Aurors without offices congregated when not out on assignments.

"Milligan, I think we got a break on what our friend in Knockturn Alley is using to move around. I think it's somewhere in the basement of the first shop they took over. The one that sells those potions. We need to get in there and find out where it goes," Harry said.

"Um, begging your pardon, sir. But how reliable is this information?"

"This source hasn't been wrong once that I know of. Come down to my office and we'll figure out how to do this," Harry replied.

"Yes, sir."

In a few moments they were seated in Harry's office.

"Based on what I was able to find out, the snatch and grab thief down in holding is related to our friend in Knockturn Alley. What the connection is, I don't know yet. What I do know is his back trail starts in that basement and we have to get in. So what I'm thinking is this. Two go into the shop, one invisible. Two stay outside to watch and serve as back up. The visible one inside distracts the shopkeeper looking for a potion. The one who's invisible heads down into the basement and finds out what's being used to move around."

"Sounds like a way to do it, sir. I'll take three men with me and get right on it," Milligan replied.

"Actually, I'll take you and two others and we'll get right on it," Harry said with a small grin.

"Um, sir. I don't think it's a good idea for you to be going out on assignment…" Milligan's voice drifted off as Harry's green eyes bored into him.

"I don't think I need to remind you, Milligan, I've been on a few missions in the past that could be considered moderately dangerous. I think I can handle this one," Harry said with a crooked grin.

"That's not what I meant, sir. It's not that you can't handle it, but what if something happens to you?" Milligan said.

"Just go pick your two back up men and meet me in the lobby," Harry said.

"Yes, sir," Milligan said reluctantly.

When Milligan left his office Harry could only shake his head. Not too long ago they were ready to send him off by himself, now he was too valuable to send in harms way. How times change. He was going to have to stop at the Black house to get his Invisibility Cloak. He left his robe on the door and headed towards the lobby. He was there ahead of the others and stood waiting near where the old statue of the witch, wizard and the three other magical races stood. It had not been replaced. A few minutes later Milligan and two other wizards strode into the lobby. They came up to where Harry was standing.

"This is Milbank and Twitchell. They've been doing surveillance in the Alley since we started this investigation. They'll know what to keep a look out for. So, how do you want to do this?"

"I have to stop at my house and get my Invisibility Cloak. I'll take it with me into Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. I'm known to spend time there. I'll put on the Cloak and then come out and head for the Alley. Milbank and Twitchell should already be on station in the Alley. I'll follow Milligan into the Alley and then into the potion shop. While he's got the shopkeeper's attention I'll sneak around the counter and make my way down the stairs and find out what's down there. Milligan will try and keep his attention for as long as he can without showing his hand. If he has to leave, have Milbank or Twitchell switch and see how long you can keep him occupied but under no circumstances do you make him suspicious. I can take care of myself if I have to."

"Yes, sir," Milligan said but it was obvious he wasn't happy about it.

Harry was the first to Disapparate and he popped onto the front stairway of the Black house. He made it to three before the door swung open. Kreacher was standing there with Harry's Invisibility Cloak on his arm.

"How did you know, Kreacher?" Harry asked amazed.

"Kreacher has ways to know what Master Harry needs when Master Harry needs them," the house elf said with a look of satisfaction.

"Thanks, Kreacher. I'll see you tonight," Harry said as he took the Cloak and then Disapparated.

He Apparated in the secluded spot near Gringotts that he liked to use and made his way to Weasleys Wizard Wheezes. The sales clerk that had crossed paths with Harry before saw him enter and immediately ducked into the back of the store to alert George of his arrival.

The tall lanky red head emerged a moment later.

"Harry, how are you doing? Recovered from Saturday yet?" he said with a laugh.

"I'm doing fine, George. Can I see you in private?" Harry asked quietly.

George picked up on Harry's tone and nodded, leading him back to his office.

"What's going on, Harry?" he asked.

"I just need to cover something I'm about to do. I'm going to use my Invisibility Cloak and I'd appreciate it if you'd take a break and head outside. I'm going to follow you out of the door. I'll fill you in on the details after it's over."

"Sure, Harry. Anything to help. Come on."

Harry nodded and pulled the cloak over himself. George watched him disappear then nodded again and left the office, feeling more then hearing Harry behind him. As he came out to the sales area he said to both clerks,

"I'm taking a few minutes and going over to see Angelina. Harry is borrowing my office for a bit and doesn't want to be disturbed."

"Yes, Mr. Weasley," both clerks chimed.

George went outside holding the door just long enough to make sure Harry passed through. With the instincts of a natural born conspirator he casually made his way over to the Ice Cream Haven. Harry made his way across the street where he saw Milligan standing idly looking through a store window. Harry stepped up next to him and quietly said,

"Ok, Milligan. Let's move."

Without any outward sign that he knew Harry was there, he lingered a moment and then walked toward the entrance to Knockturn Alley and turned in and walked down the dark narrow stairway that led to the tarnished underbelly of England's wizarding world. In just a few moments they were approaching the shop that was their target. Several disreputable figures were moving along the narrow, dimly lit alley and Harry could see no sign of Milbank and Twitchell but he was sure they were out there somewhere keeping an eye on the shop. Milligan, who was wearing some very worn robes and had used some simple disguise tricks to alter his appearance, opened the door to the shop and again let it hang open just long enough to let Harry pass through unnoticed.

Harry could see through the robe that the new proprietor was standing behind the counter with his back turned. As Milligan approached the counter the man turned and Harry could see it was the same wizard that they had been watching for the past few weeks.

"Vot can I doo for yooo," the wizard asked in an oddly accented voice.

"I needs something special like to deal with a problem I gots," Milligan said, his voice pitched low and gravely.

"Vot kind of problem?"

Artfully Milligan moved the suspect further down the counter, talking quietly as if he didn't want to be overheard by anyone coming in the door. Harry took the opportunity to very slowly and quietly make his way around the near end of the counter and based on what he recalled of Abagail's vision he was able to spot the opening in the floor that marked the top of the staircase that led down into the basement. As stealthily as he could he made his way down the stairs into a dimly lit passageway that led back under the store. The passageway opened onto a large cellar that contained a number of crates and barrels and a large opening in the far wall, framed by dark wood that had been carved with a number of symbols and sigils. Harry was sure that this was the device or portal that was being used to leave Knockturn Alley to wherever it is the wizard upstairs and his co-conspirators were headquartered. Harry took a moment to examine some of the items sitting on top of the nearer crates. While not entirely familiar they had the look of contraband items.

Taking a deep breath and drawing his wand Harry walked up to the wooden frame and sensing nothing outwardly dangerous he stepped into the darkness. His effort was rewarded with a brief tingling sensation and a feeling of mild dislocation, almost like a stationary portkey. Another step brought him back into dim light and what he saw was alarming. He was in a much larger room, more like a warehouse that was crammed with all manner of objects. As his eyes became accustomed to the low light level the objects began to resolve themselves into wooden boxes, bound bales and barrels. There were sounds of voices coming from the right and Harry began a slow walk towards them. As he approached the end of a passage that separated tall stacks of boxes he saw a space open before him that was much more brightly lit. There was a table in the middle and around it sat half a dozen men in drab robes and battered hats. They were chatting idly in a foreign language that reminded him of the Bulgarians that had come to the Quidditch World Cup just before his fourth year, but he didn't think it was the same.

He did his best to look around from his vantage point. To his left he could see a double door that looked like it opened to the outside, wherever that was. He turned around and walked back the way he came, passing the portal and continuing on until he came to the wall. A smaller passage way ran along the length of the wall. He saw several windows and he approached one and looked outside. The sun was beginning to set but there was enough light that Harry could make out that the building seemed to sit alone at the end of a dirt road. The ground was rough and it began to rise into low hills about fifty yards away. He would have preferred to look around more but he was concerned about how much time had passed since he entered the potion shop basement. He carefully made his way back to the portal and taking one more look around he slipped through and emerged back into the cellar under Knockturn Alley. It was still vacant and he quickly but quietly made his way to the bottom of the staircase. He could hear a muted conversation but couldn't figure out who was up there. He slowly ascended the staircase and as he neared the top he could tell the 'customer's' voice wasn't the one Milligan had assumed. He emerged from the floor opening and was only six feet or so from the man behind the counter and he held his breath as he slowly edged his way from behind the counter and closer to the door that led out of the shop.

He remained there for perhaps five minutes as whichever one of Milligan's men concluded their business. He couldn't tell which one it was. The man slid a small vial into his pocket and made to leave the shop. He opened the door and then turned to look back at the shop owner as if to ask another question but then just shook his head and turned back to the door. Harry took this opportunity to slip through and out into the Alley. He heard the door close behind him but he was moving toward the staircase where Milligan, still in disguise loitered. As he passed, Harry whispered,

"I'm clear."

He proceeded back to the WWW shop and waited a few moments until a customer opened the shop door and Harry quickly followed in behind him. In moments he was back to George's office which was still empty. He pulled off the cloak and folded it up and slipped it into his coat pocket. He left the office and as he emerged he nodded to the clerks and said,

"Tell George that I had to leave but thanks for the use of his office. I'll see him later."

He was out onto the street and looking about when he noticed Milligan had made his way up towards Quality Quidditch Supply. Catching his eye Harry nodded once and then casually made his way back to his secluded spot and Disapparated back to the Ministry lobby. Within a quarter hour he was in his office talking with Milligan, still in the disreputable robes but his face back to normal.

"This is what we have. In the basement, which contains a lot of crates and boxes, by the way, is a portal of some kind. You step through it and it feels like a weak portkey but it takes you to a similar portal in a large warehouse out in the middle of nowhere. The place is full of more boxes and barrels and stuff. Plus six wizards, at least that I could see, all speaking what sounded like an east European language. The stuff in the basement of the potion shop looks to be a lot of contraband items but I didn't have a chance to look too closely. I assume the stuff in the warehouse is more of the same, and there is a lot of it. Were you able to find out anything?" Harry asked

"Not a lot. I do know our friend is very cagey and knows a lot about the dark side of potions for one thing. I told him I needed something that would take care of a problem for me. Told him I wanted to influence my mother-in-law into giving me her money. Kind of a poor idea but I figured if I got too clever he might catch on. He was reluctant to agree since it would be an illegal potion and he didn't know me. I dropped the names of some shady characters from the Alley that I use on occasion and he finally agreed to discuss it with me. He said he'd give me what I needed once he confirmed my contacts.

"It took a while but I finally had to leave. Twitchell went in next and he just bought some stuff to ward off garden gnomes. It's not exactly illegal but some of the ingredients are in the gray area. Wouldn't stick as evidence if we charge him for dealing in illegal potions but at least it bought you the time you needed."

"Yeah, you guys did great. Now, I just need to figure out where the warehouse is so we can check it more thoroughly before we raid the place. I think I know where I might get the information. Good job to you and your men. Go home and get some rest," Harry said.

"Thanks, sir. See you in the morning."

Harry sat back in his chair and considered what he saw. The portal wasn't anything like he had seen before. It might have been rash of him to have gone through but what else could he have done? He certainly wasn't going to ask someone else to do it instead. He was also surprised to see the sheer amount of material that it looked like this gang was prepared to try and spread around England, unless this was just a staging area and they had larger ambitions. He looked up at the clock and saw that it was after six. It had been a long day and he was tired. He grabbed his robe and left his office and in a few moments he was at the front door of the Black house and in the space of a few heartbeats he was ushered in by Kreacher.

"Hullo, Kreacher. Can you whip up something quick for dinner? It's been a long day and I'd like to eat and maybe go to sleep early."

"Certainly, Master Harry. Kreacher will bring it to your study. There is an owl message from Mistress Ginny there on Master Harry's desk," the house elf replied.

"Thanks, Kreacher. That will be great."

Harry's fatigue slipped away momentarily as he hurried to his study to read Ginny's message. It lay in the center of his desk, neatly folded and the wax seal intact. He broke the seal and unfolded the message.

Dearest Harry,

I'm writing this before practice starts for our tournament appearance in France. I couldn't wait to tell you how unforgettable this weekend had been. I know that we had our agreement regarding our future together but to sit here looking at the beautiful ring that is a symbol of our love is like a dream come true. Then to seal the bond as we did on that magical night made it a time that will live in my memory forever. I am finding our time apart more painful after each parting. I've have been considering this and have some ideas that I wish to discuss with you. We leave for France Monday next and I had hoped we could find some time together before I go. What do you think? Please reply as soon as you can. I love you more each time I see that little bit of your eyes resting on my left hand. I look forward to your reply, my love.

With all my heart,

Your Ginny.

Harry sat back with the parchment still held in his hands. He let the events of the last weekend replay in his mind and he could not help but agree it would be two days that would live in his memory forever. He also agreed that their separation was akin to physical pain and it got worse each time they had to part. He wondered what she had in mind. He opened his eyes and looked at the message again. He pulled a sheet of parchment from his desk drawer and with quill and ink composed his reply.

Darling Ginny,

Your message was an unexpected and most welcome surprise. I have to agree that the two days just past will be a part of me forever. While some would say my life has been a troubled one, it has in fact been filled with much good fortune, but none more so than the one that brought you into it. I have some ideas that I would like to discuss with you as well and I think it should be easy for me to come to Holyhead on Saturday morning. If this works well for you just jot a note on this message and send it straight back with my owl. He will wait. I miss you, too, more then I ever thought it would be possible. I hope to see you on Saturday.

Forever yours,

Harry.

He reread the message then folded and sealed it with wax. He walked up to his room where his owl sat wide eyed on its perch. Harry attached the message to its leg and said,

"Take this to Ginny please and wait for an answer."

The owl gave a soft hoot and waited until Harry opened the window. It then spread its wings and flew out into the cool night air. Harry closed the window and went back down to the study. Kreacher had set Harry's dinner tray on the desk and he proceeded to devour it. Apparently all the magical travel he had done during the day had used up a lot of energy. Once he was finished he retired to his comfortable chair with several of the books of magic that he had acquired. He wanted to see if there was anything in there about magical portals. It was about three hours later when he finally closed the last book and having found nothing but a few vague references made his way back up to his room and turned in for the night.

When he awoke the next morning he found his owl back on its perch and a small message roll laying on his nightstand. Kreacher must have let the bird back in and taken the message from him. He saw the owl asleep on its perch. He reached over and took the message and unrolled it. It looked like Ginny tore off the bottom of his message and used it for her answer.

Sweetheart,

Saturday would be wonderful, Friday night would be even better. I'm anxious to see you.

Ginny

PS I kept your message so I could reread it each night before I go to sleep.

G.

Harry couldn't help but smile. He thought Friday night would be better, too. He got out of bed and made his way to the bathroom to shower and get ready for the day. Kreacher had his breakfast ready. Harry noticed that Kreacher had been taking great pains to dress himself and he had to admit the effect was very noticeable. A thought occurred to him.

"Kreacher, I'd like to talk to you for a few minutes, please."

"Certainly, Master Harry."

"Do you recall my friend, Hermione Granger?" Harry asked.

"Of course, Master Harry. Hermione Granger was the one that first insisted that Kreacher be treated with kindness. Kreacher will always remember."

"Well, she's been given an assignment at the Ministry to contact the non human magical races to try and begin, well, a discussion on how we could all get along better. Is there anyone or a group that exists that could speak for the house elves?" Harry asked.

"Such a thing is not something that Kreacher is aware of, Master Harry. House elves live with the Master or Mistress a house elf works for. Perhaps the house elves of Hogwarts have heard of such a thing," Kreacher replied.

"Maybe, ok, thanks Kreacher."

"Master Harry is most welcome. One hopes that Hermione Granger can do for others what Hermione Granger has helped do for Kreacher, with Master Harry's help of course."

Harry just smiled and then left for the Ministry. When he arrived he had an odd message on his desk. He was asked to visit the corridor near the chambers of the Wizengamot were the portraits of prior Chief Warlocks were hung. A small smile crossed his face as he stood up and made his way down to the lower levels. As he approached the portraits he heard a familiar voice call to him.

"Good morning, Harry," came the soft voice of Professor Dumbledore.

"Good morning, Professor."

"Harry, I've been asked to relay a message to you from Professor McGonagall. Miss Westwood apparently saw you during your travels yesterday afternoon. She says that she saw where the old building was and she is sending you a map by owl this morning. She said she hopes that it helps."

"That's great, Professor. I was hoping this might happen but I wasn't expecting anything so quickly. I hope you don't mind being the messenger, sir," Harry replied.

"Have no fear, Harry. I'm only too glad to be of assistance and I'm also glad of any opportunity to speak to you. Please know I will always stand ready to be of service. I owe you far more," Dumbledore replied.

Harry was inwardly very pleased and somewhat humbled at the idea that the greatest wizard of his age was so ready to help him. And perhaps he could be of even more help.

"Professor, I do need your help."

"Ask away, my boy."

"Sir, the way I went on my travels yesterday afternoon was something I've never heard of. It was a doorway or portal in the basement wall of a shop in Knockturn alley. I went through on that side and after a brief moment of darkness came out in that old building that Abagail mentioned. If felt almost like it was a weak or stationary portkey. It had a dark wooden frame with markings carved around it. I couldn't find a reference to it in some of the books I got that you recommended but I still have more to look through," Harry explained.

"Hmmm, it's not something that comes immediately to mind, Harry. But there are many hanging on the wall in the Head's office that I can question. Let me see what I can do. Stop by before you go home this evening."

"Yes, sir, and thank you very much," Harry said gratefully.

"Not at all, my boy. Things have been a bit quiet with you gone and so preoccupied. I'm glad for the opportunity. See you this evening."

"Yes, sir."

Harry turned and began to walk back toward the elevators and he was sure he heard the beginnings of a whispered conversation behind him. He smiled. It was good to be working with his mentor again. When he returned to his office he began writing down notes on his thoughts about the case, what might be going on and who might be involved. He sent a message down to Milligan asking him to give him a status on what they had been able to find out from the smash and grab thief they had in custody. Around noon a bushy head of brown hair came into view around the side of the door.

"Hiya, Harry. Any plans for lunch?" Hermione asked him.

"No, Hermione, what did you have in mind?"

"I'm meeting Ron at the Cauldron. He asked that I invite you along," she said with a smile.

"Are you sure you want me along? I don't want to impose on you two," Harry said.

"Nonsense, Harry. We both want to see you and Ron specifically asked. He and I have our share of time together. Come on," she insisted.

"Yes, ma'am," Harry replied with a smile.

In a matter of minutes they had Apparated into the rear courtyard of the Cauldron from the lobby and were walking through the back entrance. Ron was already there, waving at them from a table along the front wall. Hermione hurried over and Harry followed at a leisurely pace to give them a moment to greet each other alone. By the time he got to the table his two best friends had untangled themselves and Ron was reaching for his best friend's hand.

"Harry, how are you, mate?"

"Good, Ron. Thanks for the invitation," Harry said with a smile.

"Well, I know I saw you Saturday but it was so crazy we didn't get to talk much," Ron said with a big grin.

"Yeah, it was a pretty hectic day."

"I'm sorry I wasn't able to be there, Harry, but I had a family function and since it was all muggles I couldn't explain leaving so…"

"It's ok, Hermione. Family is important," Harry replied.

They sat down at the table and Tom the innkeeper came over.

"Mr. Potter and friends, so good to have you with us. I guess it won't be too long before I can't say that anymore."

"Why's that, Tom?" Harry asked, but suspected the answer.

"I'm going to sell the Cauldron to Neville Longbottom and his fiancée Hannah Abbott, provided they can get the money from Gringotts, but it sounds pretty promising. I'm getting too old and with no one in the family who wants it," he shrugged.

"Well, if it's what you want, then that's great, Tom, but the place won't be the same without you," Harry said.

"As always, you are too kind, Mr. Potter," Tom replied then took their orders.

"Harry, isn't that amazing. Neville and Hannah owning the Cauldron," Hermione said.

"Yes, they were telling me about it last week. Something tells me that Neville is going to wind up replacing Professor Sprout at some point, but Hannah really wants this place."

"Um, Harry," Ron began. "Are you involved in this somehow? One of your silent partner deals?"

"Not that way, Ron. I suggested they contact Gringotts and I told the bank they could use my account as a source for the loan, but at minimal interest and no ownership stake for me. I probably owe it to Neville to just buy the place for them, but I don't think that would work out well."

Ron shook his head a little while Hermione reached over to take Harry's hand. Ron then cleared his throat.

"Harry, how are things going with your plans for the Aurors and all?"

"Well, I've got the go ahead to hold open tryouts for new recruits. Looks like it will be at Hogwarts in mid November, on a Saturday. I was discussing it with Professor McGonagall yesterday when I was up there."

He proceeded to fill them in on his trip to the school and his visit with Abagail Westwood. He left out the part about his ideas for the wedding. He then told them briefly about the discovery and use of the portal.

"Never heard of anything like that, mate," Ron told him, his voice conveying the excitement he felt listening to Harry's adventures.

"A travel portal. It seems to ring a bell, Harry. I'll take a look at my library at home tonight and see if I can find something. Ron, would you be willing to help me look?" she asked, deep in thought.

"Sure, Hermione. I'll be over right after we close at Hogsmeade. No night hours today," Ron said just before taking a sip of water.

"Are you sure you going to get any research done?" Harry asked mildly.

Hermione looked a Harry in outrage then broke into hysterical laughter since at precisely the same moment Ron started to laugh and spit his water across the table and hit Harry square in the face. Harry slowly took his napkin and began to wipe the water off his face and glasses.

"Jokes on me, I guess," he said.

"So's the water, mate," Ron said in between laughs.

Harry spent an enjoyable time with Ron and Hermione and then headed back to his office. On his desk was a file folder that contained a copy of the manuscript that contained the relevant comments from the mentally challenged would be thief. It appeared that the man and presumably the man in the potion shop were from the city of Minsk in Belarus. He wasn't always this way but had a bad accident but he couldn't remember where or when. He had been cooped up in a shop in Knockturn Alley and the day of the robbery attempt he had been left alone too long and he wandered away and wound up in Diagon Alley. He thought the items he could see through the window of the jewelry store were pretty and he wanted to see them up close. He didn't know why he took the chains, he just thought they were so nice and shiny and he took them. The last notes were from the two agents that had been working to extract these needles from the haystack of the man's ramblings. In short they indicated that they didn't think that he had any real information on what was going on but they would keep going for a few more days on the chance he may say something that would be of value.

Harry closed the file folder and sat back. The location would certainly track with the accents and foreign language he had heard. He would have to ask Milligan how they understood what the man was saying. Harry couldn't imagine him speaking the Queen's English. He tried to keep himself busy while he waited for Abagail's message and map. Around mid afternoon a messenger delivered a fairly large roll of parchment that had been sent by the Testing Director laying out what she and her staff believed were the kinds of skills that Harry was looking for. He carefully reviewed the document and after making some notes on it realized he had no idea how someone summoned a messenger so he got up and carried the scroll back to the Director's office and left it with her secretary. By now it was getting late and he was hungry so he decided he would head for home. Either the owl would find him there or he would get the message in the morning. He doubted the smugglers were going to be changing addresses anytime soon.

He had to detour back down to the corridor near the Wizengamot chambers first to see if Professor Dumbledore had any information for him. Unfortunately Harry found the portrait frame empty. He supposed the Professor was off looking for information. A voice called to him from a little further down the hall. He followed the sound and came to stand in front of the portrait of a rather formidable looking witch. She looked down at Harry with steely gray eyes.

"Young man, Professor Dumbledore asked that you be told he was delayed in his search for the information you requested and that you attend him here at the noon hour tomorrow."

"Thank you, ma'am," Harry replied with a slight bow of his head. "I'll return at noon tomorrow."

He was preparing to turn away when her voiced pulled him up short.

"You look familiar. Weren't you down here some years ago for a hearing before the Wizengamot? Something about underage magic wasn't it?"

"I'm afraid so, ma'am. It was an emergency and my second offense so…" he said but she cut him off.

"What a load of nonsense that was. As if the Wizengamot should be bothered with that sort of thing with all manner of fiends running about. But you surely took care of that. Dumbledore told us the whole story of course. If you ever have questions about wizarding law or legal proceedings you come right here, young man," she said.

"Yes, ma'am. I will and thank you for your help," Harry replied politely.

"Not at all, young man. It's good to see some sense and manners around the place again."

With a nod Harry moved back towards the elevators and home. As always, Kreacher welcomed him and took his robe. Harry went up to his room to see if anything had arrived but nothing as yet. His own owl was standing on its perch watching him with its large eyes. It gave a soft hoot and Harry walked over and opened his window to allow it to get some exercise. No sooner had his own owl cleared the window when another perhaps half its size struggled through and crash landed on Harry's bed. It carried two pieces of parchment on its legs and Harry carefully removed them. He recognized the bird as the one that Abagail had been given to take home after her first year. He gently lifted the exhausted creature and carried it over to the perch so recently vacated. He offered the bird some water, which it gratefully accepted before tucking its head under its wing and promptly dropped off to sleep. Harry unrolled the two pieces of parchment and saw that one was a note and the other a carefully drawn map. He read the note.

Dear Mr. Potter,

I saw what you were doing while wearing your cloak. You looked all blurry, why was that? Anyway, the big building you were in is on an old farm in the northern midlands. I drew a map showing a couple of nearby towns. On the other side is a closer view showing an old dirt road and some hills on either side. I hope this helps you find the building. It looks different on the outside than it did when you were inside. See you next week.

Your little sister,

Abagail

He looked at the map and as she had indicated there were several towns listed that Harry recognized as being in Derbyshire. That would account for the hills he had seen. He would get this to Milligan at once to put the building under surveillance. He wanted to know what was around them and to give Professor Dumbledore time to try and find out something about the portals he had used. He certainly was indebted to that small, strangely gifted child and he wondered what he could do for her. It could be argued that he had done a great deal already but as usual Harry wasn't thinking in those terms. He got up to leave the room, first checking to make sure there was more water and some feed for the smaller owl when it awoke. Harry then made sure his window was open enough for his own bird to get back in and then went down to his study. Kreacher stood there waiting for him.

"Master Harry would like some dinner now, yes?"

"Yes, Kreacher, I would like that very much, thank you."

Kreacher bowed his way out of the room and Harry sat back in his desk chair and thought for a few minutes about Abagail. He wondered if she would consider a career as a psychic investigator working for the Ministry. Out of nowhere an idea popped into his head about what he could do for her and the more he thought about it the more he liked it. He pulled out a piece of parchment and jotted down a few notes. It might take some doing but he knew in the end it would be worth it.

When Kreacher brought his dinner Harry took the time to savor it and enjoy the expert cookery. In spite of their inauspicious start, Harry conceded he wouldn't know what to do without the little elf. After eating he continued his research into the issue of magic portals and at one point smiled when he wondered how Ron and Hermione were doing on the very same topic.

The next morning was a particularly nasty one. Somewhere around midnight a storm had rolled in and decided to stay for a while, with pouring rain and blustery wind. Fortunately his owl must have sensed the onset of rain and had returned permitting Harry to secure his window before it got bad. When the big owl saw that his perch was occupied it took a circuit around the room and then settled gently on the vacant end, then slowly eased sideways causing the smaller owl to budge up closer to the other end. It raised its head from under its wing and hooted softly but perhaps realizing it was the guest it slowly shuffled over until there was enough room so that the resident bird could take its usual place near the center. Then they both promptly went to sleep. When Harry arose that morning he grunted. He hated being out in the rain. Years of Quidditch practice and matches in the abysmal weather that would hammer Hogwarts had imbedded a deep dislike for such events. After a good breakfast he donned his heavy waterproof cloak and a squat wider brimmed wizard's hat and set off for Diagon Alley first thing. He stopped at the Quality Quidditch Supply store.

"Mr. Potter," the store owner called out to him. "So very good to see you, sir. How may I be of assistance?"

"Good morning, Mr. Quiddly. I'm in the market for a special broom," Harry replied.

"Something more special then your Firebolt, Mr. Potter?"

"It's not for me. It's for a young lady, around thirteen. She's rather small and just can't get a full sized broom to respond properly. And from what I've seen, brooms of the proper size are usually spelled for very young children so they aren't very usable for someone her age. Do you have anything that's small enough in size but has the full flying features of a standard sized broom?" Harry asked.

"We don't normally carry something like that Mr. Potter but custom sized brooms are not unheard of. Can you give me an idea of the young ladies height?"

Harry smiled and put his hand on his chest where he knew Abagail's head would come to.

"Hmm, small indeed. But not out of the question certainly. What level of performance were you anticipating, sir?"

"Certainly not to Firebolt standards, Mr. Quiddly. What would be appropriate for someone not likely to play Quidditch but likely to want to have some fun?"

"I think something along the lines of the Comet 160 standard would be adequate. When were you looking to take delivery?" Mr. Quiddly asked.

"As soon as you can and here's five galleons as a deposit."

"Thank you, Mr. Potter. I'll get right on it. I would hope to have it in say ten days?"

"That would be great, thanks."

"It's my pleasure, Mr. Potter."

Harry left the store happy with the results. He then Disapparated from the nearly vacant street and was at his desk in less then ten minutes. He went looking for Milligan who had been looking for Harry and they both found each other coming around the same corner in opposite directions.

"Ah, Milligan, I was looking for you," Harry said.

"I was looking for you as well, sir."

"Good, I have something very important here. Come on, let's go to my office."

"Yes, sir," Milligan replied.

Once back in Harry's office they faced each other across his desk and Harry spread the map out on his desk.

"Where did that come from, sir?"

"The same source as before, Milligan. I'm sorry, I can't reveal the nature of the source as yet, but rest assured it's reliable. This," he said pointing at the building sketched on the parchment, "is the warehouse I was in. It's up in Derbyshire not too far from these towns. Should be easy to spot from the air. Let's get it under observation so we can figure out how to take it down. I also want to keep that character in Knockturn Alley watched around the clock. This thing is making me uneasy," Harry concluded quietly.

"Well, what I have to tell you won't make you feel any better. We found one of the missing shopkeepers. He was face down in the Thames. Muggles fished him out and we had to make a quick snatch of the body and then obliviate the officers that pulled him out. Nothing fancy. Looks like a knife in the back. This just got a little more serious."

"I was afraid it would. Ok, let's get moving. The sooner we get this wrapped up the better."

"Yes, sir. Let me make a quick copy of this map and then we'll get going."

"Thanks, Milligan."

After Milligan left, Harry pulled out a sheet of parchment and began drafting out the announcement for the tryouts to place in the Prophet. He spent about half an hour writing and rewriting until it made some sense to him. He wished he had Hermione there to help him. He folded the sheet and slipped it in his pocket. He still needed to hear from Professor McGonagall about the details but he thought he should at least get some ideas down on parchment.

He looked up and saw that the hour was approaching noon so he got up and hurried back down to the corridor outside the Wizengamot chambers. This time Professor Dumbledore was there and he smiled down at Harry.

"Ah, Harry, right on time. It appears that we have an interesting mystery on our hands, my boy. What you described appears to be a very rare, and virtually unheard of, Spatial Distortion Portal. In a way it's similar to the portal that is used in the Death chamber here in the Ministry. However, this one has a linked twin that allows someone to move from one spot to another in next to no time. We had to go back nearly five hundred years to find someone who knew anything about them. While there is no known deleterious effect of using one, what could be determined is that if a person were to get confused and wander off the direct line to the matching portal, they could get lost inside forever."

"Thank you, Professor. That's a lot of help. I got the feeling that the cellar under that potions shop is very old compared to the building above. I wonder what was there before."

"Hard to say, Harry. While not intimately familiar with Knockturn Alley, it is known that there have been some very unsavory characters and activities there over the centuries."

"Unsavory is far too mild a word, Dumbledore," said a voice Harry recognized immediately as the witch he talked to the previous evening. He stepped back so he could see her and be seen by her. "Young man, know that in my time that pest hole was the home to the most loathsome denizens of the magical world. Many is the time I had to sit in judgment on one or more of those evil creatures and more than one was sent to the block for it. You have a care poking around down there."

"Yes, ma'am, I will certainly be careful."

Turning his attention back to Dumbledore he said,

"Is there anything else you think I need to know about this portal, sir?" Harry asked.

"I'm sure there is much that you need to know, my boy, but I'm afraid that's all I can say for now. Oh, and by the way, I understand that congratulations are in order. I'm referring of course to your pending nuptials with Ms. Weasley."

"Thank you, sir."

"You are most certainly welcome, Harry. I can't think of a better match and I'm very pleased that your life is proceeding along this path. You both deserve every happiness," Dumbledore said with smile. Several 'here, here's came from along the corridor.

"Good day, Professor, ma'am, everyone. Thanks again for your help. I'll keep you advised as to what we find out," Harry said, then with a final nod to Professor Dumbledore, he turned and started back up the corridor, but not before he heard,

"Your protégé does you great credit, Professor Dumbledore," the witch said.

"He always has, Madame, he always has."

He smiled a little smile and felt a slight shiver up his spine. He hoped he would never give cause for Dumbledore to change his opinion of him. He made his way to the canteen to grab a quick bite to eat then back to his office. He found two messages waiting for him. One was from Professor McGonagall telling Harry that based on her conversation with the Testing Director and consulting with Hagrid that Hogwarts would make the Great Hall available in the morning of the second Saturday in November at nine o'clock for signing in the applicants and any paper work required then out to the Quidditch pitch for the testing, weather permitting. His second message was from Hermione asking that he come to her office so she could tell him what she had found out. Tucking the Headmistresses message in his pocket he made his way up to the Director of Magical Law Enforcements office. He asked the secretary where he could find Hermione and she pointed down the hall. Harry walked along and looked at a couple of doors until he saw one with Hermione's name on it. He knocked and when he heard her voice call him in he opened the door. While not as small as the one Maxwell had it was still smaller than his.

"Hmm, you'd think the Special Assistant to the Director would rate a bigger office, Hermione," Harry said with a grin.

"Well it's not like I'm in it all that often, Harry, so I don't mind. Sit down; I have some things to tell you. It's not a great deal but it is interesting."

"Great, Hermione. Anything is better then nothing," Harry said.

"Well, what you've come across is something called a Spatial Distortion Portal. Apparently it was invented by a wizard who was on the faculty at Durmstrang about five centuries or so ago. A bit of a mad genius it seems who didn't want to spend a lot of time traveling from his home on the Black Sea coast to the school. After he died it disappeared. One of the gang must have turned it up somehow. That's all I could find out."

"That's terrific, Hermione. I had asked Professor Dumbledore if he knew anything about it and just a little while ago he told me that he found out the same thing about what it's called and around when it was made. He didn't seem to know where it came from but that apparently it doesn't hurt you to use it but you can become lost if you lose your bearings. I'm sure he'll be interested to know about what you discovered. How'd you find out that stuff?"

"Where else, Harry? In a book. You're not the only one collecting rare books on magic. In fact, you're partly responsible for this find," she said with a smug little smile.

"How did I do that?"

"Remember that rare first edition of a History of Hogwarts you got for me for Christmas during our seventh year?"

"Yes."

"Well, in the author's notes he mentions that a similar history existed for both Durmstrang and Beauxbaton. So, obviously, I had to find copies of both. That's why I had thought the description you gave was so familiar. It's described in the Durmstrang history in a section devoted to some of the odder faculty that have taught there and my goodness, have there been some."

Harry sat there and looked at his best friend for a moment and then smiled,

"Hermione, you're the best. I think you should pay a visit to Professor Dumbledore and tell him what you've found out."

"It might be some time before I get up to Hogwarts at this rate," Hermione said.

"He's right here in the Ministry, Hermione. There is a portrait of him hanging in the corridor outside the chambers for the Wizengamot. He was a Chief Warlock so he's got one here like he does at Hogwarts."

"Oh, wow, Harry, that's great. I'll get down there this afternoon for sure," she replied.

They spent a few more minutes chatting and then Harry went back to his office. He had to think ahead a bit and figure out what they were going to do once they had enough information on the warehouse. It would require manpower and a good strategy. He went looking for Maxwell. He found him in his tiny office.

"I need to talk to you, Maxwell," Harry said from the open doorway.

"Yes, sir," the older man said.

Harry stepped in and sat down.

"This situation in Knockturn Alley is turning out to be pretty significant to include one shop cellar and a warehouse full of contraband and one dead shop keeper who was just pulled out of the Thames. Milligan and the MIU are doing the surveillance to get what information they can, but we are going to need a solid strategy to take them down when we move. I want you to get with Milligan and find out what he knows then start to plan the raid. This will be as good a time as any to start building up the Special Tactical Squad. I want your recommendation on who would be the best to head it up, even if it means taking one of your squad. Ok?"

"Yes, sir. I'll get right on it."

"Good," Harry said as he stood up to leave.

"I guess you were right about this after all," Maxwell said quietly.

"It doesn't matter who was right, it just matters that we get these guys before they cause anymore damage," Harry said with a half smile.

Maxwell nodded and Harry turned and left the office. He went back to his office, pulled out the sheet of parchment from his pocket and added the date and location of the tryouts. He tucked it away again and made for the lobby so he could Apparate to Diagon Alley and the office of the Daily Prophet. As he walked from his usual spot toward the building where the Prophet had its offices he noticed a couple of familiar faces from the MIU keeping an eye on the entrance to Knockturn Alley. Harry made no attempt to acknowledge he saw them. When he got to the door for the Prophet he couldn't help but smile at the thought of all the grief they had caused him over the years. It was ironic that they would play a small but significant role in helping with his current efforts. As he pushed the door open a small bell jingled to alert the clerk behind the counter that someone was in the lobby. The clerk looked up and began to say,

"Welcome to the Daily Prophet, sir, how may I…" he said until he recognized who he was talking to.

"help me?" Harry finished for the man. "I want to place a full page ad in the Prophet to run two days a week, every week through the second week of November. I have the copy I'd like to place right here."

Harry took out the folded piece of parchment and slid it across the counter top. The clerk held up the sheet and read through the copy. He placed the copy down on the counter top and looked at Harry.

"If you'd excuse me just a moment, sir," and slipped through a door at the side of the counter.

Harry heard a muttered conversation and then the door swung open and a second, older man moved up to the counter and picked up the piece of parchment. He read through it again and then looked at Harry.

"We'd be glad to run this for you, Mr. Potter. If I may take a moment to suggest a few subtle changes to make it more readable?" he said deferentially.

"Please do. I have no illusions about my writing abilities. I'd appreciate any help you can give me," Harry replied politely.

"If you'd give me just a moment, please," the second man said.

He moved over to a large desk and laid Harry's parchment on one side and pulled out another sheet and began to write on it. In less than five minutes he returned with the new copy and handed it to Harry. He had to admit that it did read better and the larger headline across the top immediately caught his eye. He nodded and said,

"Thanks, it does work better this way. How much to run it as I asked?" Harry said.

The man took a pad from under the counter and did some calculating. When he was done he looked up at Harry and said,

"Let's make it two Galleons for the entire run and I'll include it in the Sunday Prophet the weekend before your tryouts."

"Sounds good, here you go," Harry said as he handed over the two gold coins.

"You don't want us to bill the Ministry?"

"No, I can claim it as an expense. How soon can it run?" Harry asked.

"Tomorrow's edition has already been put to bed, the day after?" the editor suggested.

"Great, thanks."

"You're welcome, Mr. Potter. We're happy to be of assistance."

Harry answered with a small smile then turned and left the shop. He couldn't help but notice the nervousness beneath the businesslike manner. He supposed that some people must be wondering if he was going to use his new position to settle old accounts. He knew he didn't have the time or energy to waste on such things. But if it made people more willing to help him he wasn't about to waste that opportunity either.

He decided to take a slow stroll up and down the Alley just to see what was going on and visit a few of the shops. He stopped into the magical creatures shop and asked the witch behind the counter if she could recommend anything to supplement his owls feed because Harry thought he was working the big bird fairly hard lately.

"Well, Mr. Potter, yours is a big, strong bird but I'm glad you're concerned and I have something that I would recommend."

She walked to shelf and pulled down a box. She returned and placed it onto the counter in front of Harry.

"Put half a teaspoon of this into his feed every day and he'll be right as rain, Mr. Potter. It's good that he's getting so much exercise but he needs the right food to sustain him and keep him strong."

"Thank you, ma'am. He's been a great help to me," Harry said as he placed the coins on the counter and picked up the box.

"Bring him by once in a while, Mr. Potter. I'll be happy to check him over for you."

"I'll do that and thank you again," Harry said and with a nod he turned and walked out of the store.

Harry decided not to stop in at the WWW since he tended to make the clerks uneasy but he definitely was going to stop at Angelina's. He found that there was only one other customer in the shop and as Angelina looked up from serving the young wizard at the counter she exclaimed,

"Harry! It's wonderful to see you. Give me a moment to finish here," she said with a smile as she handed the customer his treat and accepted his coin. Then she started to come around the counter and Harry said,

"Hey, hold on there. I'm a customer today. I've had a craving for something sweet since mid-morning," Harry laughed.

"Harry, a customer? You own a quarter of the store."

"Shhhh. Don't let out my secret. I'm a paying customer. How about some vanilla with hot fudge sauce?"

"Coming right up," Angelina said with a smile.

She scooped up the ice cream into bowl and added a generous portion of the dark sauce.

"Sit down, Harry and I'll bring it out."

Harry sat down at a table where he could look out the window. Angelina set his treat down in front of him and leaned down to plant a kiss on his cheek. Then she folded her lanky form into the chair across from Harry and smiled.

"How are you, Harry? Has it sunk in yet?"

"You mean being engaged? Kind of, but if I think about it I get sort of a fuzzy feeling. I have to be careful I don't get distracted but it's hard, especially being apart so much like we are," Harry said a bit wistfully.

"I can't imagine how you put up with it, Harry. George and I see each other every day and it's not enough," Angelina said with small smile. "Who would have thought it would turn out like this when we were at school together? George and Fred were fun to be around in those days but they were, well, I don't know. They were such boys. But I guess with setting up the business and then with Fred, well you know, George grew up and while the boy is still there the man really caught my attention and here we are," she said with a bigger smile.

Harry nodded as he listened and spooned up the delicious treat. He swallowed a bite and tilted his head.

"If Ginny is to be believed and I have no reason to doubt her, she seemed to know we were linked almost from the start. I had a much more confused path to follow," he said with a wry grin. "I'm glad she had the patience to wait for me."

"How are the wedding plans coming? I know it's only been a few days but have you talked about it at all?"

"Not yet. I'm going to go to Holyhead this weekend to see her. They leave Monday for France for that tournament. I have a few ideas and I'm sure Ginny has some of her own. We'll see what we can come up with."

"Well, I'm sure Mrs. Weasley has some big ideas. You do realize that Ginny is the first Weasley daughter to be married in something like three generations," Angelina said.

"I know. It should make for some interesting discussions," he said as he finished up the last of the ice cream. "That was really great. I haven't eaten much in the way of sweets since Hogwarts. I didn't realize how much I missed it. I'll have to become a regular."

"You know your welcome anytime, Harry, and it's always on the house."

"Oh, no. I pay like any other customer, Angelina."

"But Harry, you'd only be paying yourself. That doesn't make sense."

"Angelina, how would it look? No one is supposed to know of my share in any of the stores. So if I don't pay it looks like I'm taking gratuities from a shop owner. We can't have that. I have to build trust with the magical community and that means a high standard of ethics. We pay like anyone else," Harry said quietly and seriously.

By now they were standing up and Angelina stepped forward and wrapped Harry in her longs arms and then held him at arms length. She had an odd little half smile as she said,

"You're a rare wizard, Harry, maybe unique. And we're blessed to have you among us," she said and then pulled him to her again and he returned the embrace.

As they stood back from one another he gave one of his characteristic smiles and shrugs and said,

"I'm just glad that I'm still around to be among you."

He took two sickles out of his pocket and pressed it into her hand, leaned forward to kiss her on the cheek and then walked out of the shop. He then stopped in at Flourishes and Blotts and spent some time wandering amongst the shelves and stacks to see if there was anything interesting that he could add to his growing collection. He chatted with the clerk and as the sun began to set he wished him a good night and walked out onto the street. He took a moment to adjust his robes and casually glanced around. He could see that two new MIU operatives were now keeping an eye on the entrance to Knockturn alley. He turned and walked to the wall that separated the Alley from the Cauldron. He Disapparated and arrived at his doorstep just as Kreacher was opening the door.

"Kreacher, can you now sense when I'm on my way to the door?"

"Over time, Master Harry, a house elf becomes attuned to that elf's master. Kreacher can tell what Master Harry is doing as long as Master Harry is in the city," the little elf said as he closed the door behind them. Harry could only smile.

The next two days passed with little of note. Surveillance of the contraband smugglers continued and plans evolved for the eventual raid. On Friday the ad for the tryouts appeared in the Prophet as planned. Hermione stopped by and talked to Harry to see if he heard anything about any of the contacts they were trying to make but neither had heard anything. Hermione sighed and then hoped Harry had a good weekend and left. Harry was having a hard time concentrating as the afternoon wore on. Around four o'clock Maxwell and Milligan stopped by. They gave Harry a briefing on what they had come up with so far but they felt they were at least another week away from taking direct action against the smugglers. There was plenty of evidence that regular deliveries were being made to the warehouse and they wanted to be able to establish a timeline for their coming and going. They were also making inroads into the situation in the Alley itself with the help of informants and MIU agents in disguise. They left his office around five and Harry decided he could wait no longer.

He picked up the small bag that he had Kreacher prepare for him and left for the lobby. He had the image of where he wanted to go firmly in mind. He Disapparated out of the lobby and popped onto the sidewalk outside the Holyhead Quidditch Stadium. He could hear that there was still practice going on and he smiled at his timing. He walked to the outer end of the entrance tunnel and stood listening and catching an occasional glimpse of someone at the other end. He stood quietly waiting for about fifteen minutes and then heard the growing sound of conversation, almost exclusively feminine. He then saw a number of women dressed in practice robes and carrying brooms enter the far end of the tunnel.

A couple of them near the front began pointing to where Harry stood and then calling back over their shoulders. The front line then parted and a slightly built redhead pushed her way forwards. She let out a squeal and began running toward him. Harry took a few steps forward and then set himself, well aware of Ginny's tendency to launch herself at Harry from a dead run. As she neared him she dropped her broom and hurled herself into Harry's arms. Despite his arduous months of physical training he still had to take a step back to absorb the impact. Her embrace was crushing and he could feel her slight frame shudder against him. He held her tightly as well with his cheek resting atop her head. She let her head slide back a bit to look up at him through misty eyes and said,

"You're here early."

"I couldn't wait any longer. I guess you're glad to see me," Harry said with a grin.

Ginny didn't bother to reply, she just reached up and pulled Harry's head down and let the lingering kiss she started serve as her reply. Finally they came up for air and Harry could see that while some of the players had already gone into the locker room, most were standing watching the couple with smiles on their faces. Then Harry heard a voice call out from behind.

"Alright girls, get along with you. You'd never think you saw two people kissing before. Move it along."

The stout form of Ms. Hapnafl, the Harpies manager, came into view as the remaining players made their way into the locker room. Ginny gave a laugh and looked up at Harry.

"I'd better get in there too, sweetheart. It's been a long day and I need to get a shower and changed. Find a place to wait and I'll be as quick as I can. Then we can go get some dinner," she said breathlessly.

"I'll be right here when you're done, love."

Ginny gave him one more kiss and then picked up her broom and dashed back down the tunnel to the locker room door. She turned and blew him a kiss before ducking inside. Harry could hear the sound level inside the room rise appreciably as the door swung closed. He began to look around for a bench or some other spot to sit down.

"Over here, if you please, Mr. Potter. I have a very comfortable chair in my office," Ms. Hapnafl called out.

Harry smiled and walked toward where the woman was standing near her office door. She quickly walked to the locker room door and opened it. She yelled in,

"Tell Ginny that her Mr. Potter will be in my office."

Harry opened the office door and then waved Ms. Hapnafl in ahead of him. He was amused to see her blush slightly as she walked past him. The office was perhaps twice the size of Harry's back at the Ministry and he saw that the walls were mostly covered by Quidditch memorabilia but with enough space given over to a chalk board and a cork bulletin board. He smiled when he saw that the autograph that he had signed over a year before was hanging framed right behind Ms. Hapnafl's chair. She seated herself and beckoned for Harry to sit across from her in what turned out to be a very comfortable chair.

"We're honored to have you visit again, Mr. Potter. I know you've been to a number of our matches since Ginny joined the team but you're usually gone by the time I'm able to get away from the team. You seem to be doing well."

"Yes, I am, thank you, ma'am. I've been very busy but things are going well."

"We all saw your announcement in the Prophet this morning. Ginny was fit to burst when you were made head of the Aurors. What you're trying to do at the Ministry sure has people talking," the manager said.

"There's a lot of change going on, Ms. Hapnafl. It's needed but it will take some time to get in place. I'm just glad to be a part of it."

The older woman merely nodded. Harry took the opportunity to turn the conversation away from himself and onto Quidditch. They talked about the upcoming tournament and what the next season would bring. About twenty minutes or so later Ginny knocked on the door. Harry got up and let her in. She looked radiant with the practice grime cleaned away and her hair brushed. Harry couldn't help but smile.

"Ok, off with you two. Enjoy getting reacquainted but we leave promptly at nine on Monday morning. Don't be late, Ginny."

"No, ma'am. I'll be here on time. C'mon Harry, let's go."

The young couple walked arm and arm down the tunnel and out onto the sidewalk. Ginny looked up at Harry and smiled and he smiled back.

"Where should we go for dinner, love? Hopefully somewhere quiet so we can talk."

"I know just the place, Harry. We need to go to my room at the boarding house and drop off our stuff and then it's a few blocks away. It's run by a mixed couple, she's a witch and he's a muggle. They make it comfortable for magical folk without revealing anything to the muggles. The foods really great."

"Sounds wonderful."

Within half an hour the two were comfortably settled at a secluded table in the restaurant that looked to be several hundred years old. The witch recognized Harry immediately but made only a limited fuss over the two as if they were old friends come to visit. Harry and Ginny had placed their orders and were sitting looking at each other with their hands touching across the table top. Harry finally broke the silence.

"Ginny, have you given much thought to the wedding?" he asked.

"Not in any detail, sweetheart. We've been really busy this week and anytime I start to think about it I just sort of start daydreaming about being Mrs. Harry Potter and I don't seem to be able to get past it. Although I have been giving our honeymoon a few thoughts, especially our wedding night," she concluded with arched eyebrows.

Harry went bright red and laughed while Ginny chuckled.

"Well, I have had a thought or two and I was wondering what you thought about the idea of having the wedding in the Great Hall at Hogwarts."

Ginny sat staring at Harry for a moment and then blinked.

"My gosh, Harry, could we do something like that? Would Professor McGonagall allow something like that?"

"I've asked her and she's agreeable but she's checking with the Board of Governors. I think she'll be able to persuade them. I'm more worried about your mum. She might think that weddings at the Burrow should be a tradition, you know?" Harry said a bit worried.

"Hold that thought. First, what made you think of the Great Hall?"

"I was there on business and I had lunch and while I was sitting up at the head table I looked down at the far end of the Gryffindor table and I was thinking about all the times we sat side by side during seventh year and the idea just popped into my head. I thought you deserved something special, what with the other weddings at the Burrow. What do you think?"

"I think it's wonderful, Harry and the most thoughtful idea I ever heard of. If we weren't in public I'd show you just how much I love the idea," she said with a grin. "You leave Mum to me. She always said she wanted my wedding to be something special so that's how I'll approach it. I'll talk to her when we get back from France," she said, her face glowing.

Harry couldn't help but smile and he gave her hand a squeeze. Then he said,

"You wrote that you had an idea about doing something about our separations. What did you have in mind?"

"Well, Harry, it's like this. I don't think I could spend too many years with us being apart so much so here's my plan. I signed a two year contract with the Harpies with a possible one year extension. They already said they want to pick up that option. I agreed. At the end of that third year I'm going to retire from Quidditch. I've been having talks with the Quidditch reporter from the Prophet and I think I might like to do that. He's looking to retire in a couple of years and we've worked out a deal where I'm going to start writing some pieces for his sports column, a sort of insiders look at the game. If it works out after we both retire I'll go to work for the Prophet. What do you think?"

"If that's what you want to do I'm all for it. It may seem odd having you work for them, but I think that we can let bygones be bygones. And the timing sounds good. Looks like the food's arriving. We'll have some time this weekend to fill in more of the details."

"Hmm, yes, I guess we can find a few a minutes to talk," Ginny said, laughing. Harry blushed and laughed again.

The dinner was everything Ginny had promised and Harry ate his fill. After the wonderful meal and Ginny's company Harry was in a decidedly contented mood. He settled the bill and the two walked out into the night air where he took in a deep breath and pulled Ginny to him. She looked up into his bright green eyes and smiled, a question on her face.

"At this moment and in this place, I'm very happy and not the least bit afraid to admit it…and accept it. Thank you, love," Harry said

"What for, Harry?"

"For loving me and allowing me to love you," he said quietly.

"That goes both ways, Harry," she said and lightly kissed him. "Now walk me home and let me show you how much I love you, my most wonderful man."

Harry could only smile in answer.