Harry's Future, Part 12
"Ok, now I have a question for you," Harry said, looking around at the Defense Against the Dark Arts NEWT candidates.
Harry had agreed to hold an impromptu session with Bill Weasley's most senior class seeing as he was staying over at Hogwarts and he had not been able to maintain their usual schedule of lectures due to his lengthy recuperation from his battle with the mutated Hungarian Horntail. He was in a pretty good mood this evening. Abagail had come down for dinner after another nap and she was looking healthier. She would never be someone described as robust but at least she had shaken the deathly pallor and most of the darkness under her eyes had faded. As he looked at the dozen or so students around him he smiled a little.
"Should you be afraid of me?" he asked.
All the students showed some degree of surprise and a couple looked shocked. Harry raised his eyebrows indicating he was waiting for a response.
"No sir, I don't think any of us are afraid of you," a Gryffindor witch replied.
"I didn't ask were you afraid, I asked should you be afraid of me," he said quietly.
"I don't understand, Mr. Potter, why should we be afraid of you?" a Hufflepuff wizard asked.
"Well, let's face it. I've managed to get involved in some pretty scary things since I came to Hogwarts. People around me have gotten hurt or worse. I'd been tightly linked to Voldemort all those years and not too long ago I managed to kill a dragon pretty much all by myself. Doesn't that make me someone to fear?" he said, leaning forward in his chair.
"Well, maybe put like that someone might think that but we know you, sir," the girl from Gryffindor said. "Everything you've ever done has been for the good of the rest of us. I know it's not supposed to be well known but everyone in Gryffindor Tower knows that you were ready to let Voldemort kill you so that he'd be able to be destroyed. No, sir, I can't think of any reason to be afraid of you," she finished adamantly.
Harry smiled kindly and sat back in his chair. He looked around at the assembled students and saw them all nodding in agreement.
"I didn't ask you that question because I wanted to hear how much you liked me," he said with a laugh. "I asked it to make a point. Fear of the unknown is very common among humans, muggle or magical. It's one of the reasons we don't want muggles to know about us because they don't understand us and that makes them fearful and they do some very unpleasant things when they are afraid. The same can be true for magical folk. Just because you read a story, or hear someone talk about something, don't assume that's the whole truth. When dealing with the Dark Arts, ignorance, not knowing, generates fear and that leads to rash action and mistakes. As successful NEWT candidates you will be among the most knowledgeable members of the wizarding world but there will be much that you still don't know. Don't look at the conclusion of this year as the end of your journey, but the start. I understand that several of you made the cut during Patroller try outs. I'm looking forward to you joining the team, but you'll come to understand what I'm talking about better then most. I don't know where the rest of you may find yourselves but I hope you'll never stop learning. Well, I think that pretty much does it for tonight. I don't think I'll be back up this way before your tests so the best of luck to you."
Harry smiled as he slowly rose and shook hands with each of the students as they walked by to leave the classroom. He picked up his cane and was the last to leave the room. He wasn't thrilled with the idea of walking up all those stairs to the tower but there was no help for it so he took his time and made use of the cane as he went up each staircase. When he got to the common room there was a message for him from Hermione. She would be there tomorrow at eight o'clock and meet him for breakfast in the Great Hall.
Harry was a little surprised. He didn't expect an answer until tomorrow morning. He looked at the message again and saw that it wasn't Hermione's handwriting. It looked more like Professor McGonagall's. Ah, Dumbledore. When Hermione got his owl she must have asked him to be her intermediary. Harry thought everyone could take a lesson in humility from the former Headmaster.
It was only around eight-thirty and he wanted to rest his leg before ascending to his room so he asked if anyone had a deck of Exploding Snap cards and soon found himself playing a number of hands with some of the sixth and seventh years. By ten o'clock he was feeling tired and his leg felt ready to make the long climb. He thanked the students for the game and they bade him good night. He made the climb at a measured, steady pace and by ten thirty he was in bed and asleep.
"Master Harry must wake up and start the day."
The familiar voice of Kreacher intruded on Harry's dreamless sleep. His eyes fluttered open and he looked at the end of the bed to see Kreacher, standing on the end of the mattress.
"Kreacher? What are you doing here?"
"Mistress Ginny sent a message to Kreacher saying that Master Harry would be staying at Hogwarts, possibly for several days. Kreacher came to do what Master Harry pays Kreacher to do."
"Thanks, Kreacher."
The little house elf hopped down off the bed and went and took Harry's cleaned and pressed clothes and laid them on the bed while Harry washed up.
"Say, Kreacher, did you ever have a chance to talk to the other house elves here to ask about what we talked about a while ago."
"Yes, Master Harry. No one here knows of any such thing as Master Harry asked. Kreacher is sorry."
"That's alright, Kreacher. Maybe with Hermione here we'll just talk to the Hogwarts house elves anyway," Harry said as he dressed.
"Kreacher will go and tell them that Master Harry would like to speak with them. This would please them Kreacher thinks."
"Ok, Kreacher that would be great, thanks," Harry said as he pulled on his robe and tried to neaten his hair a bit in the mirror.
He sighed and thought maybe if he just cut it all off it might grow back neater. Then he just shrugged and figured it wasn't that important really. He took up his cane and started his descent to the common room. He passed a number of students, or more to the point, they passed him, quickly, as they zipped down the stairs as they headed for breakfast. Harry couldn't help but smile. In due time he made it to the Great Hall and he stood just inside the entrance to see if he could find Hermione. He saw her standing up on the faculty dais waving to him. He waved back and began walking down the aisle between the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw table. A little more then half way down he saw Abagail at her usual place amongst the other third year Ravenclaws.
"Mr. Potter," she said excitedly but softly.
"Abagail," Harry said happily. "How are you feeling this morning? You look much better then yesterday."
"Yes, sir. I slept in my own bed last night and woke up feeling much better. I'm going to go to class and see how I do."
"Ok, but don't overdo it, please," Harry said.
"No, sir. I'll be careful," she said breathlessly but with a large smile.
Harry noticed that the dark circles were nearly gone, but that she had several weeks of good eating ahead to put the weight back on her. He continued walking to the faculty dais and met Hermione at the steps.
"Harry, it's so good to see you, how are you doing?" she asked.
"Better every day, Hermione. Especially now that my little sister is back on her feet."
"Professor McGonagall was telling me about that, Harry. That was a wonderful thing you did. You're going to be a great dad."
Harry just smiled and shrugged which caused Hermione to roll her eyes.
"Come join us, you two," Professor McGonagall called to them. "You have a big day ahead of you."
Harry and Hermione laughed and took their places at the table. Hagrid was only two spaces down and he looked over the head of the teacher next to him and said,
"Alright there, Harry, Hermione?"
"Alright, Hagrid," Harry responded.
"Just great, Hagrid," Hermione added. "Thanks for setting things up so quickly."
"No worries, Hermione," Hagrid said smiling under his bushy beard. "I think them Centaurs are actually kinda anxious ta meet with ya. Once they agreed I think they wanted ta find out what you had ta say."
Once breakfast was concluded Hagrid escorted Harry and Hermione out of the castle and down towards his hut. Hagrid was used to slowing his usual long legged gait when he had students in tow but with Harry's weakened leg he had to slow down to an even more leisurely stroll. As they approached the hut they heard a dog barking but it didn't sound like Fang. The barking was followed by the sight of a not yet full grown Brindled Mastiff. It had a huge head, long legs and paws the size of tea cup saucers but it's body still had not finished growing which gave it that I'm-still-a-puppy look.
"Where's Fang, Hagrid," Harry asked but already dreading the likely answer.
"Ahh, sorry, Harry, but with ya laid up I didna think ta mention it. He slipped away in his sleep not ta long before ya had your tangle with that dragon. I miss him a lot but after all he were somethin' like thirteen and that's pretty old for one of them biguns. This here is Norbie. I named him after ol' Norbert."
It didn't appear that Hagrid thought Harry might not want to be reminded about dragons.
"I'm sorry to hear about Fang. I hope Norbie turns out to be as good a dog for you."
"Thanks, Harry. Well, we do need ta go inta the forest but just a bit. They know about ya being hurt and are willing ta come near the edge. That's a big deal for 'em."
"I appreciate that, Hagrid. Is it something I can mention?"
"Oh, aye, Harry, they'd think it polite and proper of ya."
They entered the forest with Norbie frolicking around them. They had only walked along the path for perhaps ten minutes when they came to a small clearing and there waiting for them were two Centaurs. Harry thought he recognized them but he waited until Hagrid made the introductions.
"Harry, Hermione, this is Bane and Ronan."
"Harry Potter, Serpent Slayer. It has been quite some time since last we have seen you."
"Hello Bane, Ronan. Yes it has. I thought I recognized you. I would like to thank you for consenting to come this close to the edge of the forest. Your consideration is very much appreciated," Harry said with a slight bow.
Bane nodded back to Harry and said,
"Hagrid came to us with your request for this meeting. It is well known to all that we Centaurs have no reason to treat with your Ministry but out of respect for the Serpent Slayer it was agreed that we would hear what you have to say."
"I'm very grateful that you've honored our request. Hagrid may have told you that there have been many changes at the Ministry. Human relations with the other magical races has been moved from the Regulation of Magical Creatures Office and placed with the Office of Magical Law Enforcement. It is the Minister and Director's desire to place the magical races on an even footing as far as the law is concerned."
At this statement Bane and Ronan glanced at one another and then back to Harry.
"In order to begin this process, my very dear friend, Hermione Granger," Harry indicated Hermione with his hand, "has been assigned as a special assistant to the Director. Hermione has been a very strong voice for equality for all the magical races. She wishes to speak with you today."
"We are familiar with you, Hermione Granger. We are aware of your relationship with the Serpent Slayer. But know this. Our decision to speak to you is in deference to him. If he deems you a person worthy of trust we will respect his request. What would you say to us?"
Hermione had always been a bit intimidated by the Centaurs. The combination of size, stern visage and general contempt for humans was one she found a little frightening. She took a breath and step forward. Taking her cue from Harry she began,
"I understand your thoughts in this matter and please know that I respect them. I appreciate your coming to meet with us and I would also like to thank you for meeting us in this place to spare Harry a longer walk in the forest. As to what I would say to you it is simply this. I would like to know what you would wish of us."
Bane and Ronan both frowned a bit and looked at each other, obviously confused. Ronan spoke next, his deep voice seeming to rumble directly from his chest.
"Human called Hermione, since it was you who asked for this meeting should not this be our question to you?"
"I'm afraid I may not have phrased that correctly," Hermione replied. "How would you wish to treat with us as the Ministry and as fellow magic users?"
"You are asking us to set terms for our relationship with humans?" Ronan asked.
"That's correct."
Bane looked at Harry.
"Serpent Slayer, is this truly the purpose for which we are here?" the Centaur asked.
"It is, Bane. The same question has been posed to the Goblins and if we can find who to ask it will be posed to the house elves. As recent events have demonstrated, we humans have proven to be less then stellar custodians of all things magical," Harry said with more then a touch of irony.
"If I was given to hasty thought and words, my response would be we wish you to leave us alone to live as we choose. But I am not hasty and we who look to the stars for guidance have seen the signs that a time for change has come. We will take your question to the others and we will ponder it and we will tell Hagrid when we are ready to speak again. Is this all you wish to discuss with us, Serpent Slayer?"
"Only one thing more, Bane. I know it created strife amongst your people but I wish to state my deepest appreciation for the assistance of the Centaurs at the final battle. I firmly believe that I stand here today in large part because of that timely intervention," he said with a deeper bow. "I am pleased that we had this opportunity to speak with you this day."
"I, too, appreciate your efforts on our behalf on that fateful day and wish to thank you for your time today," Hermione added.
"We will relate your request to the herd and we will relay your words of respect and appreciation as well. Fare-thee-well, Serpent Slayer and friend Hermione."
With a last nod to Hagrid the Centaurs turned and trotted down the path deeper into the darkness of the forest. Harry and Hermione turned to one another and let out long simultaneous breaths. Hagrid walked up to them and gently laid a huge hand on a shoulder of each.
"Well, I have ta say that went real well. Ya approached it just about perfectly. They are a proud bunch and ya gave 'em the respect they feel humans don't have for 'em. Hermione, did ya notice Bane called ya 'friend'? That's a big thing, ya impressed em ya did."
"Thanks, Hagrid. What was all that Serpent Slayer business, Hagrid? They always used to call him 'Harry Potter'," Hermione asked.
Hagrid turned them about on the path and started them walking out of the forest. Norbie was charging ahead snapping at any bug that flitted across his path.
"Well, that be a right interestin' story, Hermione. They knew about when Harry killed the Basilisk all them years ago. Then o' course Voldemort hisself was as much snake as human there at the end. Third times a charm with ya killin' that big beast up in Derbyshire, so now they think of ya as the Serpent Slayer. For 'em ta say so is a very big sign o' respect, Harry."
"I suppose the fact that on all three occasions I nearly got killed didn't seem to mean much to them," Harry said.
"Just the opposite, Harry. Let me tells ya summat about Centaurs. They may have the heads o' humans but there be an awful lot o' horse behind them eyes. They have a very strong herd mentality. One o' the things they really don't like about humans is what they see as selfishness. Always about the 'me' instead o' 'us'. But the fact that ya was willin' ta sacrifice yerself for others, well, that means a lot ta them. As long as yer behind this thing with the Ministry, Harry, they'll keep listenin'. Remember that Hermione. It's Harry's reputation that this thing hangs on. You have ta be completely on the straight with 'em. Otherwise Harry will suffer for it."
"I understand, Hagrid. I'd never do anything to betray Harry's trust," she said with a smile at Harry.
Harry was walking along deep in thought. He was wondering just how far reaching were the consequences of his actions and how much damage would occur if he messed up. He didn't say anything more as they walked up to the castle. Hagrid left them at the steps up to the front door as he had other tasks that morning and Harry and Hermione made their way to the Great Hall. While Harry took a seat at an empty area of the Gryffindor table and waited as Hermione went to the room behind the faculty dais to retrieve her bag. She wanted to make notes on what had been discussed with the Centaurs while it was still fresh. When she returned she found Harry seated at the table, his hands folded on the tabletop and his eyes a bit unfocused.
"Harry? Are you alright?" she asked.
"Hmm, oh, I was just thinking is all, Hermione," he replied.
"What's bothering you, Harry?" she asked as she sat across from him. "I think we did pretty well this morning, all things considered."
"Oh, I think so, too. I guess I was just thinking about what Hagrid said about the Centaurs and what they thought about me. I'm a little worried about it, that's all."
"Why, Harry? I think it's a great honor for you to have them feel you are someone they can trust, probably the only one."
"That's just it, Hermione. I'm the only one that the Centaurs trust. I'm the only one that the Ministry thinks can fix the Aurors and by the way the whole place as far as the magical community is concerned. I'm the only one that Abagail could open up to. Why am I at the center of all this. What's so special about me? And what if something happens to me? Does it all fall apart? I'm only twenty years old, Hermione. I'm practically still a kid."
Hermione looked at Harry carefully. This didn't appear to be the kind of mood that plunged him into such deep despondency before. It looked more like he was feeling the weight of responsibility pressing down on him and he was starting to panic a bit.
"Harry, try to relax a little bit. I understand that you've taken on a lot of responsibility for someone your age, but hasn't that always been the case? You took on saving the Sorcerer's Stone when you were eleven. You and Ron went into the Chamber of Secrets and you defeated the shade of Riddle and killed a Basilisk to save Ginny when you were twelve. You led the DA and let's not forget that whole horrible business of our trekking about hunting down the Horcruxs. Harry, you've been taking on responsibility far beyond your age practically your whole life and look at what you've accomplished. Why does this seem so different?" she asked.
"I don't know, Hermione. Maybe it's because I've had time to think about it too much. Maybe it's because I see things getting better and I think if I mess it up we'll slide back down to the dark days again. Maybe it's because I look in the mirror every morning and I see a messy haired kid that hardly needs to shave and I think what the heck are you doing in charge?" he said with a snort.
"Harry, Alexander the Great was twenty when he became a king, you know."
Harry laughed and said,
"Hermione, I hardly think I'm in the same league as Alexander the Great, for crying out loud. Besides didn't he die when he was like thirty three or something? And when he did the whole thing fell apart?"
"Yes, Harry, that's true. He got sick and died and he didn't leave anyone to take over for him and that started a lot of infighting and his empire broke up. So if you're afraid that something might happen make sure you have people who can carry on for you. But haven't you already started that? Didn't you appoint Maxwell your deputy? I'm the one that is supposed to be dealing with the magical races so as long as I don't mess up I'll be handling most of that. And Abagail would have Ginny. It's ok, Harry. You aren't in this alone. Good grief, what happened to mister team work and family? Why is it that you think you're in this alone?"
Hermione was leaning over the table with her hands atop Harry's, her eyes fixed on his.
"Hmm, probably because I'm such a prat," he said with a smirk. "Or maybe I've banged my head one time too many. Ok, Hermione. What do you say we start working on your notes?"
"I'll say ok if you really, truly feel better and you're not trying to just shine me on."
"No, Hermione. I'm not messing you about. I know you're right, I just get a little overwhelmed at times I guess."
"Ok then," she said as she opened a notebook and they began to go over what was said and what their impressions were of the Centaurs response. Hermione then filled Harry in on what had been discussed with the Goblins and how they too felt that Harry was someone they could trust and by extension they were willing to hear Hermione out. There were no commitments made other then to take the issue up within the Goblin community and respond at some later date.
"I have to tell you, Harry. As much as the Centaurs were impressed by what you did about Voldemort and all, the Goblins were just as impressed by your business dealings. I'm wondering if your relationship with Dobby and Kreacher will have a similar impact with the house elves once we get to talk to them."
Harry just shrugged; he was to the point where he just didn't know how to respond to such statements anymore. Hermione gave him a 'look' and then just shook her head. The Prefects had invited Harry and Hermione to sit at the very end of the senior section of the Gryffindor table so they took the opportunity to move down from where they had been working. They answered a few greetings in passing and in one instance Harry replied in the affirmative when a fifth year witch asked if he might be able to get her an autograph from Ginny.
"Has that happened a lot, Harry? The autograph thing, I mean?"
"Oh, yes. A number of times in fact. It seems our Ginny is getting to be quite the sports celebrity," Harry said with a proud smile.
"How long does she plan to continue to play?"
"Oh, I guess she didn't tell you. I would have thought she had. She's nearing the end of her two year contract. They picked up her one year option and then she's going to retire. So that puts it around the middle of summer after this one coming up. She's likely to become the Quidditch reporter for the Prophet."
"Really?" Hermione said, genuinely surprised. "Imagine that. After all they used to do to make your life miserable. Poetic justice in a way."
"Yeah, but only if they pay her well."
They took their seats at the end of the table and in a few moments students began streaming in for lunch. In a few moments Abagail came in and when she saw Harry and Hermione her face lit up and she hurried to the edge of the table.
"Hello, sir, Hermione."
"Hello Abagail, how are you feeling," Harry asked.
"Ok, sir. A little tired but I'm good. Guess I'll just go to sleep early tonight. How much longer will you be here, sir?" she asked in her airy voice.
"The way it looks now, I may be leaving tomorrow, the next day at the latest," Harry replied.
"Ok, sir. I'll see you later then, gotta go get to my seat," she said and then hurried off.
"Gee, Harry, she looks so thin," Hermione said.
"You have no idea how much worse she looked a couple of days ago. Very, very scary," Harry said quietly.
Any further discussion was cut off by the arrival of the Prefects who sat next to Harry and Hermione. The meal passed pleasantly with topics ranging from Quidditch to the changes ongoing in the Ministry. It turned out that both Prefects were being heavily recruited by various departments. At one point Hermione and the young witch sitting beside her had their heads close in a whispered conversation that resulted in Hermione slipping a piece of parchment to the girl with a bit of writing on it. When Hermione looked up she saw Harry watching her with raised eyebrows. She just gave him a little satisfied smile. As the time for lunch was drawing to a close a Gryffindor first year hurried up to Harry carrying a folded piece of parchment.
"Mr. Potter, sir. Excuse me, sir, but Professor McGonagall told me to give this to you, sir and wait for your answer, sir."
Harry had to smile at the number of 'sirs' that had been worked into that rush of words. Harry took the parchment and broke the seal and read the message. His expression went stony and when he was done he asked Hermione if he could borrow her quill and ink. When she produced them Harry scribbled a quick reply and handed it to the boy. Before Harry could thank him, the little wizard-in-training hurried back the way he came.
"Is everything alright, Harry?" Hermione asked.
"The Professor wants to talk to me after lunch. Why don't you hang around and when I'm done we'll see if we can talk to the house elves."
"Ok, Harry."
Harry got up and started walking down the aisle towards the faculty dais. He didn't want to try and negotiate the crush of students leaving so he figured he'd start early rather then make the Headmistress wait for him after the Hall cleared out. As he passed where the first year messenger sat he gave him a pat on the shoulder and thanked him for running the messages. He stammered out a 'you're welcome' and Harry moved on, not seeing the wide eyed looks of the other Gryffindor first years. He moved off to the side of the dais as the Headmistress dismissed the students to their afternoon classes. She came around the table and gave Harry a nod and then went through the door to the private room behind the table. Harry climbed the steps and after exchanging a few 'hellos' with some of the faculty he followed the Headmistress.
"Close the door and have a seat by the fireplace, Harry," she said.
Harry did as she instructed and came to sit in one of the large cushioned chairs arranged before the now cold fireplace.
"It's as bad as we feared, Harry. I've had word this morning that Abagail's grandfather is suffering from severe dementia. That's why he's been placed in a muggle care facility."
"Um, is there something we can do about that? I mean with magic, St. Mungo's?"
"I'm afraid not, Harry. Even if it didn't go against just about every law in our books, I've been assured that it's as much a problem for us within the magical community and we are no better equipped to cure it then muggles are. But that's not all. Her grandmother is in fairly poor shape herself. She still lives at home but requires regular assistance with her housework and looking after herself. It seems the poor dear is just about worn out. Losing her only daughter, caring for an ailing husband and then Abagail. Her being at school has been a bit of a mixed blessing. While not having to look after her she misses not having whatever help that little girl was able to give. Mrs. Williams, that's her name, is aware of you, Harry. Apparently Abagail has told her a great deal about you and she is most appreciative of what you've done for her these past three years and is agreeable to have you become her legal guardian if that is what you had in mind."
"It is," Harry replied quietly.
"Well then, I will let her know that is your intent and the arrangements will be made. This is a wonderful thing you're doing, Harry."
"Maybe. I just can't help thinking what would have happened if a certain orphan, or I guess cast off would be more accurate, had had someone to look after him. The world would have been a different place I think."
Harry sat staring into the cold fireplace for a few moments. The Headmistress looked at him and a thought occurred to her.
"It bothers you, doesn't it, Harry? I'm referring to Voldemort."
"That I had to kill him? Yes, it does. It all seems such a waste. The death and destruction, the fear. Our fear of him, his fear of dying. Did you know, Professor, that there are people out there that are afraid of me?"
"What are you talking about, Harry? Who could possibly be afraid of you?" she asked incredulously.
"A couple of weeks ago I had a meeting with the trainers for the Patrollers at the Black house in London. After we were done I took them all to lunch at the Leaky Cauldron, sort of to say thanks for pressing on while I was laid up. Hannah Abbott walked with me through the tap room to our table and I noticed that some of the people looking at me appeared frightened. She later told me that with every thing that has happened, especially after the dragon thing, that some people are afraid of me. I noticed the same looks on some people at the Three Broomsticks the other night, too."
Harry was staring back at the fireplace. The Headmistress looked at him and then leaned forward.
"Harry. You can't let what other people think about you matter so much. You possess a great deal of power which has been demonstrated in several spectacular episodes. And as a result, those episodes have been widely publicized and that's all that most people have to judge you by, fairly or unfairly. Power frightens people who don't have it, Harry. Whether it is magical power or governing power or policing power. At this point, you possess all three and in fairly large quantities. Those of us who know you so well know better, but I'm afraid you'll simply have to learn to deal with it and steel yourself. It's a lesson I had to learn quite a while ago."
"What do you mean, Professor?"
"Oh, come now, Harry. Think back just a little while ago. When you first saw me what was your first impression?" she asked with a bit of a twinkle in her eye.
Harry thought back. The first time was right after the boat ride across the lake and before the Sorting ceremony. He remembered her as the stern, imposing witch explaining the basic rules of life at Hogwarts.
"You were kind of scary."
"And when you and Mr. Weasley showed up for my first class, late."
"Um, still kind of scary."
"Exactly, Mr. Potter," she said in her best stern voice which then softened as she smiled.
"Year after year I welcomed first years who looked at me with that frightened fidgety expression and I knew most would outgrow it, but some never would. Now I may not have had the same impact as the late Professor Snape but I know the impression I made, but it was what was needed to get the job done. The same holds true for you, Harry. You have the potential to make a huge impact on our world, far greater then Voldemort because yours will be for the good and hopefully much longer lasting. But you'll have to understand and come to terms with the fact that some people won't like you and others will fear you but in the end what you do will benefit them as well. It may not be fair but it is the way it is."
She had taken a hold of his forearm with one hand and gave it a squeeze.
"Thanks, Professor. I guess it just gets a little confusing at times. Sorry to be a bother to you."
Professor McGonagall snorted.
"I believe we've had that discussion before, young man and you are no bother. Now get yourself out there and keep doing what you're doing. Except for banging yourself up at regular intervals. That I think you should endeavor to avoid whenever possible."
"Yes, ma'am. I think that would be a good idea."
The Headmistress smiled at him as they stood up and walked back out to the Great Hall together. Hermione had moved to the near end of the Gryffindor table and was waiting for Harry. He smiled down at her a bit and after taking his leave of the Professor he went to join her.
"Everything ok, Harry?"
"Yes and no," Harry began. "Abagail's grandparents are in no condition to look after her so we're going to work it out that I become her legal guardian. That's one of the reasons she's doing better now, she was so worried about being orphaned again but I told her we wouldn't let that happen, Ginny and I. And the Professor and I talked some more about things and she's managed to get my head straightened out, at least a little bit better so yeah, we're doing ok."
Hermione just nodded and smiled at Harry.
"Ok, well, we've got the Goblins and Centaurs thinking. Now how do we bring the house elves into the process? Kreacher wasn't able to come up with anything for us, Harry?"
"No, there really doesn't seem to be any kind of, I don't know, center of gravity I guess you'd say for their race. They seem to be such an extension of the human world they have no separate identity. The staff here at Hogwarts is probably the single largest concentration of house elves anywhere. It's a place to start," Harry said with a shrug.
"Can Kreacher get us in to see them?"
"I can ask," he said. "Kreacher, I need to speak to you, please," he called out.
With a pop the house elf was standing besides Harry.
"How may Kreacher be of service, Master Harry?"
"Kreacher, Hermione Granger and I would like to speak to the house elves here at Hogwarts. Can you ask them for us?"
"Yes, Master Harry. I will do so now," he said and popped out of sight.
In less then five minutes Kreacher popped back into view.
"The house elves would be most pleased to speak to Master Harry. They are less happy to speak with Hermione Granger. Many remember how Hermione Granger used to leave socks about for house elves to pick up."
Hermione turned bright red at being reminded of her guerilla tactics early in her elven rights campaign.
"Thanks, Kreacher. Would you like to come with us? We have to take the other way to the kitchen."
"Kreacher will meet Master Harry at the entrance as is proper," the little elf said and then he popped out of view again.
Harry and Hermione walked towards the exit of the Great Hall and out into the corridor. They approached the main staircase and found the door that led to the corridor where the painting of the bowl of fruit hung. Harry tickled the pear and just as it giggled and turned into a door handle, the handle turned and the painting swung open to reveal Kreacher pushing the 'door' and bowing Harry and Hermione into the kitchen.
Although Harry had been here before he couldn't help but marvel at how the kitchen mirrored the dining hall above. The same long tables arranged with plates and cups and flatware. The big difference was the multitude of house elves instead of students. Dozens and dozens of pairs of large liquid eyes were looking at them. Several came up to him and one said,
"Harry Potter is very welcome and pleased the house elves all are to see Harry Potter. What may the house elves do to assist the great Harry Potter?"
"My very good friend Hermione Granger would like to talk to you and ask you a question." Harry replied.
"The house elves remember Hermione Granger," the elf said eyeing her warily. "There are no socks, are there?"
"No," Hermione said fervently. "I don't have socks or hats or any clothes at all. I was wrong then and that is not why I am here today. I simply would like to ask you a question."
"Hermione, maybe we should explain to them a bit of what you're trying to do," Harry suggested.
"I think you might be right, Harry," she replied.
Looking at the assembling house elves Hermione took a deep breath and began. She told them about how things at the Ministry were changing and how the four magical races were being put under the same legal standing. As Harry watched he could see that the house elves were not fully comprehending what she was saying. A house elf was not generally aware of the greater world around them and the idea of laws beyond not being allowed to use a wand was murky at best. When Hermione stopped Harry could see most of them just staring at her, blinking politely but with out much understanding.
"What my friend Hermione is trying to tell you is that the Ministry would like to know how the house elves would like to live. We've asked the Centaurs and the Goblins and they are considering the idea. Now we are asking you."
"This is a strange thing to ask house elves. House elves have always lived as house elves live now. Working for those that live in the houses that house elves work in. What else would a house elf want to do?"
"We don't know. That is why we've come to ask you. Dobby lived as a free house elf and Kreacher does as well. He still works for me but he does so because he chooses to and he accepts payment for his services. The opportunity could be open to you," Harry explained.
Some of the house elves began to get agitated. They looked at each other and muttered.
"Master Harry, if Kreacher may, Kreacher would like to say something."
"Of course, Kreacher," Harry said.
"It is easy for Hogwarts house elves to be angry when Master Harry talks about change," Kreacher began. "Hogwarts house elves do not know what it is like to work for Masters or Mistresses who treat their house elves badly. Kreacher knows what that is like. Dobby knew what that was like. Master Harry freed Dobby. Master Harry gave Kreacher the choice. Hermione Granger was the one who wanted Kreacher to be treated with kindness and Kreacher liked that much better then the old way. Kreacher still works for Master Harry but it is Kreacher's choice. Hogwarts house elves should not get angry with Master Harry for asking the question. Master Harry does not say, 'house elves must go free', Master Harry asks what do house elves want. House elves make the choice, not have it made for them. Hogwarts house elves may not want to leave Hogwarts or ask Hogwarts for money. Maybe other house elves do not like how house elves are treated and would like it to be different. Maybe that choice should be house elves to make."
Harry was staring at Kreacher. He had never heard him say so much at one time and he never heard him speaking so forcefully. The other house elves were likewise shocked and many were staring at Kreacher in amazement. The elf that had been first to speak did so again.
"Hogwarts house elves did not mean to be angry with Harry Potter. House elves like it here at Hogwarts and would not like to leave but Hogwarts house elves can not speak for all other house elves. Hogwarts house elves do not know what others want. Hogwarts house elves thank Harry Potter for speaking here today. Hogwarts house elves thank Hermione Granger for not bringing sneaky clothes today. THouse elves must return to work."
With that the house elves turned around to return to their tasks. Harry and Hermione looked at each other and Harry said,
"Well, we tried. This one might take a lot more effort," he said.
"Looks that way, Harry, but at least it was a start," she said then looked down at Kreacher.
"Thank you for helping us today, Kreacher. That was a wonderful thing you said to them."
"Kreacher has been fortunate to have come to work for Master Harry, but Kreacher remembers that it was Hermione Granger that convinced Master Harry that Kreacher should be treated kindly," the last being said with the wide smile of the house elf.
Harry and Hermione smiled back and then left the kitchen. As they returned to the main entrance hall Hermione turned to Harry.
"I think that's all I'm going to get accomplished here, Harry, so I might as well head back to the office. When are you coming back?"
"I think I'll leave in the morning. I can get a ride back to Glasgow and then catch the train to London so I'll be back in the office the day after. I want to make sure Abagail is set and explain to her what we have in mind. Thanks for coming up on such short notice. It was good to get that taken care of."
"I'm glad we could do it, Harry. Thanks for thinking of it, on top of everything else you have to deal with," Hermione said and she gave Harry a hug.
Harry watched her walk out the main door and then thought about what he should do next when an idea occurred to him. He walked into the Great Hall and made his way into the room behind the dais. He took a seat before the fire place and then called for Kreacher. With a pop the little elf was there before him.
"How may Kreacher be of service, Master Harry?"
"Kreacher, would you please go to my room in the Gryffindor tower and get the warming bag that Madame Pomfrey gave me? I have some time and my leg is feeling a bit stiff."
"At once, Master Harry."
Harry sat back and stretched out the sore leg. A moment later Kreacher popped back into the room with the bag in hand. As Harry placed the bag on his knee Kreacher went to the wood bin and removed several pieces and placed them in the fireplace. With a wave of his hand the wood burst into flame and Harry could feel the warmth on his face. He settled back into the chair and closed his eyes.
"Ah, this is great Kreacher, thank you, my friend," Harry murmured.
Kreacher looked at Harry with an odd expression and replied,
"Master Harry is most welcome," and he popped out of sight.
As the warmth from the bag on his leg spread and the temperature in the room rose from the fire Harry found himself drifting off. It wasn't a deep sleep like he had the night before but more of a comfortable doze. The blackness behind his eyes began to lighten and random images emerged and then faded from view. A voice began to intrude on his awareness.
"Sir?"
"Who is that?" Harry's voice echoed in his mind.
"It's me, sir, Abagail."
A slightly blurry image of the little girl floated among the gray background.
"Abagail, why aren't you in class?" Harry asked.
"I think I am, sir. I'm asleep. I'm in History of Magic and I sometimes get drowsy in this class."
"Yes, I used to do that same thing," Harry said with a little laugh. "Wait a minute. If we're both asleep how can we be talking to each other?"
"I don't know, sir. I've never done this before. It's kind of neat though," she said with a girlish giggle.
"Yes, it is. But I think you need to wake up and pay attention. You don't want your grades to slip," Harry said like a true Professor.
"It's ok, sir. I know this stuff already. I read it in some books I got last year," she replied matter-of-factly.
"Well, as a favor to me, try and wake up. I know Professor Binn is a tough one but it's good practice. I'll see you at dinner."
"Ok, sir. I'll try. See you then," she said as her image faded.
Harry's subconscious began to process what had just occurred while other indistinct images swam in and out of focus. A familiar one began to coalesce and again he thought he heard a voice, a disturbingly familiar voice. As the image became clear Harry was 'looking' into the same green eyes he saw in his mirror each morning.
"Mum," Harry sobbed.
"Look after Abagail. She is more precious than you know. We love you," he heard her say as her image dissolved and was replaced by the image of himself, almost.
"We're proud of you, son. All of us," James said as he too faded from view.
"Dad," Harry whispered, his hands involuntarily reaching out in his sleep.
Had anyone been there watching they would have seen tears streaming down the cheeks of the young man asleep before the fireplace. One part of his mind was trying to wake him while another sought to remain in that place desperate to recall the images of his mother and father. He was finally pulled out of that place by an incessant tugging on his arm and whispered words in his ear.
"Sir. Sir. Wake up. Wake up."
Harry's eyes fluttered open behind his glasses still full of tears. Barely in focus, he saw the wide eyes and still too hollow cheeks of Abagail pleading with him to wake up. The disappointment at having had only the briefest of contacts with his mother and father, added to stress of the past weeks broke through the last of his emotional barriers and he began to cry like a brokenhearted child. As he bent forward in his grief, the young girl who had only days before undergone the same catharsis wrapped her arms around his shoulders and put her cheek against the top of his head trying to lend to him the same support he had given her. After a few moments she lifted her head and focused on a spot somewhere beyond the chair in which Harry sat and nodded, then said,
"Yes, ma'am. We'll look after each other."