Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter or its characters.
AN: Last edited Nov 2012
When Harry arrived in the hall through the staff entrance, with the Headmaster in tow, everyone stopped whatever they were doing, watching the two famous wizards curiously. Whispers broke out when Harry didn't go to the Gryffindor table as usual, but to the Hufflepuff table instead. He made a beeline for Susan and whispered in her ear "So I here you'll be heading out on Christmas night Miss Bones?"
The young Hufflepuff eyed him suspiciously for a moment "Oh and what makes you say that Harry?"
Gaining a large grin, he was about to publically ask her to the ball, but thought against it. Especially after he took note of the sheer amount of eyes and ears locked firmly on the conversation "It's a secret, can we talk after dinner?" After he received a nod, he pecked her on the cheek and began laughing as he walked off, the other Hufflepuff students teasing her.
Dinner was similar to the welcoming feast, like it was a celebration of sorts, Harry assumed it was a compensation for the fact the students wouldn't be at Hogwarts for Christmas. That or the house elves were showing their food is much more impressive than anything they will see during break.
Harry always ate with grace and he like any who noticed it felt sick when watching Ron eat. The young wizard couldn't fathom how anyone could eat like that. It couldn't even be blamed on the Weasley family since his three brothers didn't eat like that, ever. Harry had it drilled into him by Merlin, that a true pureblood must act his station at all times. Now Harry might not have taken all of that to heart, but eating was one big one he felt was necessary, even his relatives taught him that at least, so if it ever happened, he 'wouldn't eat like a freak' in public.
He never got much food with the Dursleys growing up granted, but what little food he did get, he didn't act like a crazed animal that had been denied food, he would eat it slow to savour it. Harry almost felt pity for the clueless male redhead, when he saw girls watching him from all over the hall in pure disgust.
The boy let out a resigned sigh even though he had put up with it for a few months now, it was way worse than any time he could recall at that moment, so he knew something had to be done now, calmly he asked "Ron, Merlin what is wrong with you? The food is practically endless, yet you act like an animal that hasn't eaten in weeks"
Ron, typically, began talking with his mouth full. Everyone nearby were now openly looking at him in disgust, as spittle and chunks of food scattered onto the dishes still on the table, that he still somehow seemed oblivious to the looks was impressive in itself. After struggling to swallow what he had in his full mouth he repeated "What you mean Harry? The food doesn't last forever, got to get as much as I can while it lasts" Harry merely shook his head before turning to Neville who was next to him. Basically he was doing the opposite to Harry, having so many siblings, probably meant a limited amount of food, now he had a chance to eat whatever, he ate as much as humanely possible.
Once dinner ended Dumbledore stood to give a speech to the students. It was a little drawn out, but basically bade them a safe trip home, enjoy their break and time with their families, at this point he looked sadly right at Harry, not going unnoticed by many in the hall. Regardless, it resulted in cheers from the students. When they left for the dormitories Harry waited outside for Susan and told his friends to return to the tower without him. A few seemed reluctant to leave though, wanting to see what Harry wanted Susan for. It seemed like Ron was another, but after a few words, Harry realized the boy just didn't want to leave Harry alone once again. Thankfully the twins came and dragged their younger brother away forcefully.
Susan walked over once she stepped into the entrance hall quite cautiously, narrowing her eyes, she made her way over to him. Hannah stood nearby, not close enough to eavesdrop unless they talked loudly though, but close enough to be able to step in and help her friend, if need be. The fact Harry didn't discuss it in front of the masses in the great hall, likely meant that he did not want everyone to know about whatever he wished to discuss with her friend.
"So Harry... What's so important you wanted to get me alone? Or did you just want to get me somewhere alone?" Her eyes further narrowed when he got a wide grin at the comment.
Rubbing the back of his head he stated "The Headmaster wasn't going to allow me to go to the Christmas Ministry Ball. I kind of said we would go together to it, so he couldn't stop me... so want to be my date Susan?"
Susan's face flushed and she looked at the boy in front of her in shock, many thoughts racing through her head at what she had just heard. Reigning in the more ludicrous thoughts she scowled angrily at him "Why wouldn't the Headmaster want you to go? So you're just using me to attend the ball?"
Harry actually looking genuinely shocked at the suggestion before refuting her claims "Of course not Susan. If I didn't want to genuinely want to go with you I wouldn't have said anything and snuck out of the castle another way. I wasn't intending on taking anyone to be honest, but when the Headmaster hinted he didn't want me to go... well, this just seemed like the most appropriate..."
He left the statement hanging before he stated "I do want to go with you though. One I get to see you in a dress. Two I get one of the best looking girls from Hogwarts on my arm that night. Three I get to dance with said girl, and four having the niece of the current head of the DMLE department near me all night, will hopefully reduce the number of bigots, idiots or scum from trying to bribe or take advantage of me. Sounds to me like I win on all scenarios"
Her face softened considerably at his statements and she got a light blush before she stated, apart from the last one, she was quite pleased by his answers "Fine I'll go with you Harry. However, you better be well dressed on the night. Oh and you will give me the first and last dance, not even Merlin himself will save you once I'm done, if you decide not too"
Harry visibly gulped and nodded his head rapidly, while inwardly laughing since it was Merlin who had saved him on his 11th birthday. Saluting he stated "Yes ma'am I'll make sure I do all those things Ma'am"
Giggling, she blushed once more, quickly pecked him on the cheek catching him off guard. Smiling brightly when she realized that she had actually succeeded in bringing out a light blush on the boy who lived, proving that he did genuinely like her, she exclaimed "Oh I got you to blush! I guess I am the best looking girl to you huh Harry" Not even waiting for an answer, she ran off to Hannah who immediately began asking questions excitedly.
Harry watched them until they were out of sight. It took him a few moments to compose himself, but he let out a smirk, turned and headed back to his own common room. Many questions began to be called out to him as soon as he entered the common room. Naturally, the girls he had slowly realized were his top fangirls, were the most persistent in their questioning. As usual he chose to ignore their presence, as well as their questions much too all their annoyance.
When he got to his dorm room Seamus cat called him, Dean made a show of making out with his pillow, Neville looked sheepish with a slight grin and blush upon his face, and Ron, well, he looked like he was still processing what the former two guys were trying to imply. Harry sent a glare to both aforementioned "So Harry, what did you want to talk to Susan about? Assuming you were talking that is" Dean asked slyly, stroking his pillow in a disturbing manner.
Harry blushed momentarily at the insinuation, causing the boys to all focus on him intently, not actually expecting a reaction "Heard she was staying for the break. I just wanted to know why and see if she wanted to do something during break"
Susan had already told Harry the answer to the question but they didn't know that. Her Aunt was going to have a busy few weeks. Since it was only the two of them for Christmas usually, it would have been very lonely for the girl. Her Aunt suggested she stay at Hogwarts, so she's around other people on such an important day. If he was right in his assumptions, Hannah had offered her to spend it with her family, but apparently Susan declined, rather preferring to remain at Hogwarts.
The simple statement caused both Seamus and Dean to pout initially, since they were hoping it was something gossip worthy. Good enough that it could actually be used to make a conversation with Lavender and Parvarti. From the pout to broad grins, Harry made the assumption, that the latter statement was just what they were hoping for. He knew that rumours of them dating will be over the train back, by the time they returned, the rumours would likely have escalated drastically. "See I told you. Harry's not like that. He wouldn't ditch us for some girl"
Harry as well as the three other boys in the room looked at him strangely, snapping all out of their trains of thought. Neville quietly stated, but loud enough for them all to hear "Uh Ron you seem to forget Harry ditches us in every class to sit next to a girl"
Ron's eyes suddenly shot wide open, like he had never realized this fact before and shouted out "What? Oh Merlin. Harry, why do you want to be around girls so much?" Again all eyes looked straight at him with incredulous stares. Neville actually looked quite shocked at the statement and Harry realized why. Pureblood's were taught before Hogwarts about boys/girls and sex, how to tell when a boy/girl is playing games to get to your name, wealth or political power etc.
Harry knew that the Weasleys were purebloods, but didn't have the power and money to back up the name and status. That meant Ron either didn't listen or simply wasn't taught, likely having no need to be taught the rules since he had so many older brothers, brothers who would take the mantle of head of house before him. Letting out a sigh, he couldn't for the life of him figure out how Ron turned out the way he did, regardless if he was right in his assumptions, considering his brothers actions and knowledge. Harry merely gave a shrug before stating "Hmm I wonder, maybe you'll figure it out by the time you are 17 Ron"
Seamus burst into laughter while the other two snickered at the comment. Ron seemed clueless to what was funny about the comment. After a minute of trying to figure it out, he seemed to shrug it off and joined the group in laughing, naturally that simply made the others laugh harder.
Harry awoke the following morning, knowing that the students would be leaving Hogwarts to return home. The young wizard got a slight snigger at what he had planned for certain chaser today before she left Hogwarts. Since the first game ended, they hadn't had another practice session and he missed his Katie time. It was 6am, the train from Hogsmeade wouldn't leave until 11am, meaning plenty of time to work with.
Getting up and ready for the day, he headed down to the common room, taking note that quite a few more Gryffindors were up than usual. Harry let out a long, dramatic sad sigh, not seeing his target present, greeted the few Gryffindors that were there that he felt like talking too. He made light conversation with some older year girls that didn't giggle at his presence, well unless he told a joke anyway. He figured they could very well be fangirls too, but just had better control over themselves, as he chatted with them, he kept stealing glances at the staircase, fighting off the smile that was threatening to escape.
Finally after an agonizing 15 minutes of waiting, Katie came down with the two other chasers. Harry just realized that he never saw Katie talking to her dorm mates at all. Whenever she was anywhere it was always with Angelina, Alicia, Lee Jordan and the twins. He did notice her talking to girls from other houses too, but never the other second year Gryffindors.
Harry ran over immediately and pulled her into a bear hug, once more succeeding in surprising the girl. Just before he got to saying something loudly to embarrass Katie, Alicia yelled out "HAH. You owe me a galleon Johnson. I told you he would do something today"
Angelina huffed before handing over a galleon, Katie glared at Harry since he had yet to put her back down "Harry, put me down" Realizing that the girls had betted on him reacting this way, Harry internally frowned. Feeling his inner child starting to take hold, Harry's response was merely to shake his head "Now"
A quick change in plans was in order, but easily implemented. With a childish whine, much like some certain first years he didn't feel the need to waste thinking time on, he replied "No. I won't let you leave me"
Many in the room started to laugh at the scene, of course a large number of his fangirls began glaring at the poor girl in their dream boy's arms. Katie let out an annoyed sigh "You can't hold me forever Harry"
Harry meanwhile was thinking of the best way to embarrass the girl further, and possibly the two other chasers at the same time. He said nothing for a few moments in thought "Yes I can"
A minute passed with no one saying anything waiting for the inevitable to happen and the first year to get tired. Harry however had yet to show even the slightest sign of discomfort, causing impressed mutterings and bets to start going around the room. Harry was laughing inwardly. Katie decided a different approach and stated "Harry if you put me down I'll sit with you in the hall"
There was silence in the common room as they waited for the boy's response to her statement. As the crowd realized Harry wasn't going to give up that easily, those that bet him to hold on longer, were whispering encouragement to keep him going. Harry however was ignoring them, he was thinking if he should do something more embarrassing in the hall, it would be far more public after all. After a few more minutes with the whisperings getting louder and higher in number, he finally stated "Okay" And put her down before taking her hand and dragging her out of the room. Loud groans and many cheers followed them out.
"So Harry why are you acting all upset about Katie leaving? It looked like a redhead had your attention this morning, rumor has it she's planning on staying here with you during the break as well" Alicia stated with a sly smile on her face.
Harry looked over at Alicia, tilted his head, those twins were going to be a pain in later years, as they were likely the only ones that had seen the list of students staying, and spread the word. "Simple Miss Spinnet. I just realized that I haven't been getting my Katie time, we haven't had practices since that game." Waving his hands in the air dramatically, which had the side effect of Katie's right hand to come up with his left he continued.
"Now I realize I have to put up without having it for another two weeks! It's not right! It's not fair! Don't leave me Katie!" He had stopped walking and once again pulled her into a tight hug lifting the girl from the ground and causing her to roll her eyes at the dramatic boy holding her.
Meanwhile because they were near the entrance hall, a few students had heard the statement from Harry and they had all but bolted off in multiple directions to go tell other people. Harry was honestly wondering if they would do this every time he did anything with a girl. Angelina had seen the students run off and began giggling. This caught the attention of her three companions "A few students just heard what you said Harry. Think about it. No one outside the team knows about your 'Katie time' so to them it'll sound like you spend time alone with Katie. Then again, I get this feeling that was your intention the entire time"
Harry put on a serious thinking face but didn't put Katie down yet "But Miss Johnson, why would someone as innocent as me, ever think of insinuating such a thing"
Silence was his only answer, just before she and Alicia burst out laughing. Katie snorted "Harry you can put me down now" Blinking he did as she asked, running his hand through his hair, he chuckled lightly with a sheepish grin.
As the four teammates ate breakfast together, Harry noticed more and more people arriving and looking over at Harry and Katie curiously or in anger. Something about a group of girls glaring at Katie, suddenly got him thinking again, of the fact she doesn't hang out with her dorm mates. "Hey Katie"
Said girl turned to him, acknowledging him "How come you don't hang out with your dorm mates? I notice you're always with these two, Lee Jordan and the twins, occasionally other second years in the other houses" He nodded in the direction of the girls and awaited Katie's response.
She let out a sigh and said simply "Fangirls" Harry's eyebrows rose in surprise, what would fangirls have to do with...
As if a switch had flicked on in his mind, he nodded in understanding. "Ah, I see. So they don't like you now, since you get to spend time with me at practices? I talk to you, whereas I ignore groups of blushing giggling girls if I can help it. Come to think of it, they are your dormmates right" He indicated 4 girls glaring at them further down the table. She nodded as an affirmative before turning back to her conversation.
Harry's own fellow first years began coming into the hall in groups. When he saw Ron enter and sit down nearby with his dorm mates, he got a smirk. Walking over he stated loud enough so only the guys could hear, although the way Lavender's ears actually seemed to twitch, he had a feeling she heard too "Ron here's a hint to why I hang around girls so much, pay attention now"
Harry then walked back over to his teammates and lifted Katie up and plonked her on his lap. Katie being used to Harry doing this by now, simply looked at him with narrowed eyes for a moment. After Harry gave her an innocent look, she turned back to the girls and began talking like nothing had happened. Dean and Seamus looked at Harry in awe. Neville in shock at how easily it was done, his Gran had gone into great detail about why you shouldn't do something as bold as what Harry just did. Ron however still looked confused as to the point of it, the confusion soon turned into a glare though... almost reminiscent of a fangirl?
Harry couldn't help but shudder at that thought, that caught the girl in his lap's attention "You alright Harry" She asked, her curiosity peaking further with the look in the wizard's eyes.
Harry looked at her eyes with a panicked expression, looking around conspiratorially. Leaning close to her ear, he whispered "Oh Merlin, I think that Ron might be a real fanboy Katie. Look how he's glaring at you for being in my lap"
Ignoring the nice feeling of his breath against her ear, she looked over curiously at the first year redhead and saw the glare. She tried her best, but couldn't help it, she burst out laughing causing everyone nearby to now notice exactly where the girl was. Even the professors were now looking intrigued, well all except Snape who had a fierce scowl present. McGonagall looked on with thin lips, while seeming to fight hard to prevent the slight twitch in her lips at the display. A memory arose that suddenly made Harry remind her of another Potter and a certain Black. The frown on the headmaster's face though, caught Harry's attention, he made a note of it.
Katie took a few deep breaths to calm herself, then patted his head "Aww everyone wants a piece of you don't they Harry" Harry's eyes were now taking on a scared and fearful look, the implications of having Ron in the same room as him, started to dawn upon his mind. Katie's cheeky giggling snapped those thoughts away though, her next words demolished them permanently "Don't worry Harry. That's a jealous look, not a fangirl or fanboy in this case look. I don't think he wants you in his lap... well I don't think so anyway. It's more like he's realized I'm, quite literally, closer to you than he is"
Harry seemed to relax a bit, he looked up with a cheeky grin of his own "I hope you're right Katie, I'm in a dorm...alone with him for the next two weeks!" She laughed again and Harry looked over to the Hufflepuff table, his eyes met his future protection from Ron, for whatever reason Ron didn't like girls right now, hell he almost acted like those muggle girls at his primary school, cooties and all. That meant Susan would be his perfect bodyguard during the break.
Breakfast went by quickly after that. Harry had returned to the other first years, seeing as besides Ron, they were all going to be leaving, so he should say his goodbyes and all. Although it was starting to grate on him, that ignoring his dorm mates questions seemed to be getting harder by the minute. Well more like Dean and Seamus asking for tips on how he managed to get a second year, the first years voted hottest second year, in other words, Dean and Seamus's opinion, to sit in his lap. Harry noticed Seamus looked over at Lavender while Dean was looking at Parvarti and he chuckled, ideas already forming in his mind.
Harry already assumed Seamus might have been taught before school, about the art of young pureblood politics/antics, but Dean showing interest was a surprise for him. However he didn't answer any of the questions much to three of his dorm mates obvious disappointment. Neville seemed to be intrigued on his methods too. Soon enough an announcement was made by Dumbledore, making sure leaving students had their belongings packed within 15 mins, as they would be transported to the train shortly thereafter.
Harry didn't feel like going all the way to Hogsmeade just too see everyone off, so he waited at the entrance hall and said goodbye to all of his friends and acquaintances as they left to catch the carriages. That truly was still a shock to him, realizing that less than a few months ago, real time anyway, he had no friends, now he had many. His instincts kicked in, noticing something trying to sneak by cautiously around his position, after taking a sniff he recognized a scent and smirked to himself.
Sneaking up behind the girls he stated "What's this, leaving me without saying goodbye. I'm hurt" The girls spun around and both their eyes widened at getting caught, they were purposefully trying to avoid a public display after all, when Harry grabbed both of them into one arm hugs on each side. "Why are all my girls leaving me" He shouted out dramatically, making loud sobbing sounds, attracting the attention of many around them.
Tracey was the first to recover, as she noticed the crowd, she began to laugh "Harry it's only two weeks and you're seeing us in a few nights anyway" Harry pretended to ignore her, letting out a loud wail, gaining the trio more attention.
Daphne, who had begun to blush, cursed inwardly at not being able to avoid this. She told Tracey they should have left early, to avoid Harry altogether, as she knew he would try something like this. It was just so, embarrassing and she was sure Tracey delayed packing before breakfast so this would happen. Needing to salvage the situation, or at least get him to stop being so dramatic, she whispered loud enough for her two friends to hear "And we'll be in dresses"
Harry instantly stopped what he was doing, muttering "Dresses? Both of you?"
The big, hopeful eyes was apparently too much for Tracey, as she started giggling again, deciding then and there, that if Harry wasn't going to embarrass her friend further, then she would do it herself. To that end, she whispered loudly "Yes Harry. I'm sure you'll really like Daphne's. It's black"
Harry blinked, finally let them out of his hold, but Tracey had hold of Daphne to stop her from leaving, Daphne glaring at Tracey with a look of betrayal "You're going to be in a dress?"
Her gaze shifted to Harry dangerously in warning of what he might say next, could end up with the result of her harming him. Harry's got a massive grin on his face "But Daphne, you're already beautiful in school robes. If you're in a dress, how will I be able to look at other girls at all on the night? I won't want to dance with anyone else"
She blushed and he began to laugh along with Tracey, said girl commented "Well I better get a dance too Mr Potter or do you want to be unable to walk properly the rest of the night" He merely sent her a wide grin, as he took in her annoyed stance, hand on her hip and shaking her finger at him.
Harry let out a sigh and thought to himself 'What is with the threats and dancing combinations lately?' Out loud he responded "How could you suggest such a thing Miss Davis? Just because I might not want to dance with anyone else doesn't mean I won't. Why would I restrict myself to one beautiful young lady when I can dance with a few? With you being on top of that list?"
She smiled brightly at him before she stated "Well we'll see you in a few nights Harry. I expect some nice dress robes and you to show respect to our families" Then she winked at him at the families bit and he merely smiled brightly back at her. Daphne merely nodded seriously next to her after the statement was made. Harry gave each girl a kiss before they got on a carriage.
Returning to the hall he saw Susan giving a tearful goodbye to Hannah so he went to join in "Hannah why do you have to leave me with her? For two whole weeks"
Harry cried out after clutching the girls in a tight hug three way hug. Susan growled out "Careful Harry, I might just change my mind on something"
That sobered Harry up completely and he stated "Right then, have a nice trip Hannah"
Both girls giggled at his 180 personality change, he gave each girl a kiss and moved on to the next lot of friends. He shook hands with Draco with a promise to see him on Christmas night, the young boy gave him a grateful smile, having been witness to his rather eccentric goodbyes, was glad to not be on that list. Harry also bid farewell to the other first years that he saw on his way to find his last target. He ended up chasing after Katie who wasn't about to let the boy catch her in another endless bear hug. He caught her just as she got on a carriage, pulled her back out and got her in that all too familiar bear hug. Pouting in annoyance, she put up with him as he cried out in apparent pure suffering, the unfairness of taking away 'his Katie'. Needless to say, Harry was sure many of the students didn't know how to take him.
Once she left, Harry didn't have anyone else that he really wanted to say goodbye too so he decided to go hang out with Susan. Harry discovered her Aunt had gone into great detail on who to avoid at the upcoming party, but the way her Aunt was telling her, Susan hinted it might be more for who Harry should avoid since he was her date. Harry was very grateful that she shared the knowledge with him. Keeping those people on neutral grounds would be the smartest decision he could make, for when he takes his seats, as they would likely back him up increasing his political power more.
At Dinner the duo arrived to see the Great Hall, only to find that the four house tables were removed and it was only one table, the head table was also gone, the Professors that had stayed and the Headmaster sitting at the end at the end of the table. Dumbledore waved Harry over and he shrugged not seeing the harm in sitting near the Headmaster. It also gave him the excuse to not sit next to Ron, who seemed to want to sit as far away from the professors as physically possible.
Susan was the only first year Hufflepuff student staying for the break, when Harry noticed this he grabbed her hand making her blush. He then pulled her along to sit to his right, while on his left sat his Head of house, he noticed was watching the joined hands with narrowed eyes.
"Good Evening Professors" He stated with a tilt of his head, he was curious that the only Professors that seemed to have stayed were the heads of houses, an odd looking woman with crazy bushy hair and a vacant look in her eyes, as well as Hagrid.
"Ahh Harry how are you my boy? Miss Bones I hope you are well" Dumbledore asked eyes twinkling merrily
"Yes sir" Susan responded to the Headmaster, surprised he was talking to her directly. Few people that were not in trouble could say they did the same in their first year. She also took note of how he spoke to Harry with his first name as if they were close.
Harry looked up, with the major players of Hogwarts around him, it might be the perfect time to organise leaving the castle, with that in mind he stated "Sir is it possible for me and Susan to have an escort to go to Diagon Alley tomorrow? I've got some last minute shopping to do"
The aged Headmaster stroked his beard for a moment, peering over his glasses at Harry curiously, after a moment, he nodded to himself "Well it is the Holidays, so I don't see the harm. So Miss Bones will be accompanying you?"
Harry blinked not expecting the question, then realized he didn't even ask if Susan wanted to come with him, he turned to the girl and raised an eyebrow. She merely blinked innocently and smiled lightly, nodding her head slightly, shrugging at assuming that was a confirmation he turned back to the headmaster "Yes sir" Causing her to smile brightly.
The Headmaster nodded with his eyes twinkling full blast before he stated "Very well. Are there any volunteers to take them out of the castle tomorrow?"
Harry peered at the teachers and he noticed that Quirrel seemed to be deep in thought, just as he appeared to be about to speak Professor McGonagall stated "I'll take them Albus. I need to make sure my young Gryffindor is well behaved and do nothing to discredit our my house"
Harry blinked and got a big grin, oblivious to his head of house's hidden hint and turned to Susan who was blushing beet red. When the twins called out to him with that annoying grin of theirs, he decided he would leave the Professors to their own discussions, that they couldn't speak of in front of him and moved to the rest of the students.
Harry first stop when they got to Diagon Alley the following day was Gringotts. He was shocked when the teller he walked up to, gasped when his eyes saw Harry, he immediately put up a closed sign and asked the young wizard to follow him. His Professor and friend went to follow, the Goblin 'requested' that the two witches stay behind.
Once he relented, he was led down a detailed passageway with majestic runes and designs adorning the walls. What confused him though, was that even with his Occlumency skills and perfect memory, he literally couldn't remember the route they had taken. The Goblin who introduced himself as Raznard commented "There are powerful wards preventing any wizard to be able to navigate through Gringotts. Our wards are much more effective than anything you wizards come up with, it is why we are commissioned to ward important magical areas. Any skilled human warders are employed by Gringotts, lest they figure out too much for their own agendas. If they could navigate these walls, then what is to stop your nation from taking over and annihilating our Goblin nation?"
Harry nodded in understanding, playing it smart and not commenting on the way this Goblin seemed to dislike the wizarding society. Eventually they wound up in front of an impressive Golden door decorated with various jewels. Raznard placed his hand on the door and muttered quietly in what seemed to be an unknown language, the door glowed for a moment before opening. The wizard and Goblin entered the room and an aged Goblin looked up from his mountain of paperwork.
"Raznard I take it this is Mr Potter" The aged, scared Goblin warrior stated, eying the young wizard intently.
Raznard nodded and bowed low "Yes my lord. I will wait outside until you are finished"
Once the doors closed and magically sealed the aged Goblin spoke once more "Mr Potter, I am Director Ragnok"
Such a simple statement but the effect was immediate, Harry's eyes opened wide in shock for a moment and he bowed respectfully to the leader of the British Goblin nation "It's an honour to be asked here by you Director, but I have to ask. Why did you ask for me? From what I understand you don't meet with any wizard or witch, unless it demands your personal interference, in which case, well, they aren't long for this world"
Ragnok laughed and bared his teeth before stating "So what I heard from Riptook and Griphook is true. You are powerful and respectful to our kind. Not even the so called leader of the light Albus Dumbledore shows us true respect. Even he sees himself above showing us the respect we deserve. Even the Dark Lord would rather we were eradicated than asking for our services in his last campaign. Not that we would have accepted of course, as we are honourable warriors. The fact he was so quick to decide our fate though..."
The Goblin shook his head to clear it of his thoughts before stating "I asked you here merely on a whim actually. When I saw the results from your first visit I had to admit that I was shocked, it has been many generations since one such as you has walked the halls of Gringotts. I wished to meet you and see you for myself. Such power in such a young wizard! When you mature you could become a major threat to not only our nation, but all life if you chose a path of a dark lord."
Harry's eyes widened at the Goblin's statement but before he could state anything he continued "However, you not only show respect to our race, from what I understand you hold no prejudices against anyone, we have heard the whispers amongst the elves as well, regardless of species or heritage you treat all beings as equal. Such a thing is very rare in this day and age. Those like you eventually are only spoken of as legends. The main one being Myrrdin Emrys or as you would know him Merlin"
Harry fought off the smirk from coming on his face at the comparison to the man or being that saved him months before. "Hmmm yes I do believe you have a great destiny in your future Mr Potter. I will say this. If you ever require the aid of the Goblin nation that could break our treaty with wizard kind I shall arrange you a meeting with our King. Perhaps you are the prophesized one, like Merlin, I believe your destiny is far greater than running the noble and ancient house of Potter and Black. Now if you don't mind this paperwork won't help itself. If you have any queries in the future feel free to contact me directly"
Harry was stunned to silence at what was stated to him by such an important Goblin. He even stated he would organise a meeting with the King. No wizard as far as he was aware had ever met with the king. The Goblin that spoke on behalf of all of Goblin kind. Even the treaties were done up by lesser roles on the Goblin Hierarchy, the highest known, being the directors of each nation. The Goblins must be able to tell the future is shifting and he was at its centre. Harry bowed again and a stray thought passed by and he decided to ask it "Director, I have recently discovered who my magical guardian is and that said guardian has had access to my trust vault. I was wondering whether said person has been taking funds from my account at all the last 10 years"
Ragnok nodded in approval at the question before he replied "Not to worry Mr Potter, the account was left alone almost completely. Much to our surprise, as soon as we discussed you with our leaders, we came to the agreement to check your vaults in great detail. There were a few withdrawals after the fall of the Dark Lord by your Government, but that was used to cover the funeral costs and making the property at Godric's Hollow a monument. We were contracted to ward it using Potter funds."
Harry felt slightly outraged that the Ministry had dared charge his recently deceased families funds to pay for such things. His eyes glowed slightly in his rage, Ragnok's dark chuckle snapping him back to attention. "Not to worry my young lord. As we were the ones to ward it, only you or a wizard or witch you wish to enter the property may pass by the wards. It is quite literally as it was 10 years ago. If you wish we can organise a portkey to the property but I would recommend you wait until the summer. Your parents final resting place are also at the graveyard near the property"
Harry nodded shocked to find the place of his parents murder was kept as it was when it happened. But then again the Ministry would see it as a perfect representation of the boy who lived birth and the Dark Lord's defeat. Not the site of Lily and James Potter's murder. Pleased with the answer he bowed once more before leaving the room. After he withdrew another 5000 galleons from his vault, thanking Raznard, who seemed surprised Harry was able to recognize him, he returned to met up with Susan and Professor McGonagall back in the bank lobby.
Susan marched up to him and spoke in a hard tone "What took you so long Harry? We were getting worried, thinking they were going to kill you or something"
Harry cocked his head to the side as if in thought "Well I actually finished with the business they wanted me for some time ago. Sooo, I took longer to see if you would miss me Susan" She merely sent him a glare and he held up his hands thinking of what he should say to appease the girl. When he saw the Professor eyeing him curiously he knew what he should state.
"I wanted to make sure no Galleons had been removed from my vaults over the last 10 years, while I've been out of the wizarding world. Turns out it was left untouched except for my parent's funeral and the monument of the house they were murdered in" Both pairs of eyes widened before each began taking a sad look. Susan expression started to turn quite distraught at asking her question so bluntly and harshly, Harry's hand taking her own snapped her from delving into her own thoughts though, showing he didn't mind at all.
"So now I've stocked up on Galleons how about we buy some presents huh" Susan sent him a small smile and nodded.
Harry ended up getting wizarding sweets for most of his friends/acquaintances. For certain members of his house, and a few key people he bought them more personal gifts. He got Dean a magic sketch pad that stores thousands of pages but looks like a muggle 20 page book. The fact that the pages were charmed to animate the drawings would no doubt please the skilled artist immensely.
Neville, he chose a detailed herbology book and a few rare magical plant seeds to start him off. The owner was very reluctant to sell such a rare seed to a boy, but once discovering who he was, was more than happy to sell and with 15% off the price. The shy boy had a greenhouse at his home so it would be put to good use.
Seamus was a more difficult choice, but he found an animated magical creature set, that actually did battle with each other. It was very expensive but the boy would hopefully look over that fact and enjoy watching the creatures destroy each other, repair, and repeat the process. It even had a feature to pick sides and Harry was considering buying the boy the enchanted battle maps pack for the following Christmas to complement it.
For Hermione, Keelah, Hannah, Susan, Daphne, Tracey, Katie and Padma he got a few beginner books on Occlumency with a note explaining how it helps to retain information. After some thought, he also got them an astronomy orb, as well as for Parvarti and Lavender, with a tap of the wand in a dark room, it shows an animated starry sky. With a mere incantation and name of the star formation they wish to see, it would highlight the area in which it's found.
Oliver, Fay, Angelina, Alicia, Katie and Ron he decided to get Quidditch related items. Harry knew for sure that Ron would be expecting a broom but he wasn't about to just give the boy one. Especially considering how he acts most the time. So instead he bought three cleverly charmed Quidditch models for Oliver, Fay and Ron, that have moving players flying around the field. Like wizard chess, the players listened to your commands and he knew the three Quidditch fanatics would like it.
Katie, Angelina and Alicia he bought new protective Quidditch gear, plus a voucher to pick out any other Quidditch related product the store sells.
The twins and Lee Jordan he just got them gift vouchers to Zonko's with a decent amount so they could stock up on prank items. For the twins he also got them some unique potions texts that could have provide the boys with some interesting results in their pranks. He also went out and bought them brand new beaters bats.
He decided get a collection of gift vouchers to a shop that sells a variety of items that directly dealt with appearance. Clothes, jewellery, hair products etc, it seemed fitting for the rest of his female friends and so they didn't feel others got more than the rest. The guys could use it themselves or use it in the future for family, friends or girlfriends.
Harry chuckled to himself when he was considering whether or not one proud Slytherin boy would be happy or angered by the chosen gift voucher. But he didn't want to just leave Draco with just that, so he also made an effort to get him some rare potions books and ingredients to try his hand at. The boy was clearly tutored and was quite skilled in the art from what Harry had seen. He actually ended up buying each present he got for himself as well, wouldn't hurt to have the same knowledge after all.
Susan and Professor McGonagall were shocked at the amount he was buying and the sheer cost of the items in question, but surprisingly none brought it up with him. He randomly burst into laughter when he thought of an interesting additional gift for Katie, Susan and Daphne. He went to Madam Malkin's and began a flirtatious conversation with Jean, who was very happy to see the first year again. She even flirted back to him surprising Susan and Professor McGonagall immensely, the latter who remembered such a shy girl at Hogwarts. Jean was teasing him about Susan in hushed tones once she noticed the glare the redhead was directing at her, the young Hufflepuff thought she couldn't see apparently.
They then began talking in hushed tones with the young woman giggling like a schoolgirl throughout the conversation. Harry picked out three different sets of underwear from the catalogue for each of the girls, a dark red for Susan, black for Daphne and dark blue for Katie. He then organized Jean to charm them to have an image of Harry smiling broadly and skipping merrily around on the material constantly. He had a few other ideas that Jean could help him with, so he got her roster for the next few months, which thankfully was the same, as well as her contact information.
Soon after that Harry treated the Professor and Susan to ice cream before they headed back to Hogwarts. Susan was disappointed that she couldn't get any hints out of Harry of what he had got her for Christmas. She saw him buying quite a few of multiple items but he was sneaky with how he was paying and getting the owners to put the items straight into his trunk, that the boy conveniently had wrapped around his neck.
AN: Last edited Nov 2012