A/N: Sorry it took so long to update. I've been going over a timeline, I had thought that I would need it for this chapter but it turns out I don't. But as I was going over the above mentioned timeline I discovered an error I made in chapter 69 and had to correct it. The error had to do with 'Merlin's love story'. I had stated that Merlin and Morgan fell in love in their late twenties, it was supposed to be early teens.
"Harry." Said Ginny.
Ginny started to get worried. Harry was unresponsive. Ginny was about to have Sirius brought to the inheritance office, she then glanced at the files. As she comprehended the names on the files she fell back into her chair.
"Oi. Didn't quite see that one happening."
"You can say that again. My mum wasn't a Muggle-born…she…I'm…I could use one of Sirius's teas."
"I'll give you some private time." Gobbes said as he left the office.
"Harry…get Gobbes back in here and claim this. By claiming now, you won't have to come back and do it." Ginny said after a few minutes.
Harry only nodded in agreement. Ginny got up and peaked her head out of the door.
"Gobbes, Harry would like to claim the inheritance or inheritances."
Gobbes nodded and returned to his seat as Ginny sat back down. With a swish of Gobbes hand a stack of documents appeared in front of Gobbes. Gobbes filled out the documents and had Harry sign in several places. Once Harry signed everywhere he had to, Gobbes organized the documents into a neat stack. He tapped the stack and a second stack appeared in a folder of its own. Gobbes placed this folder on top of the Evans and Granger files.
"Is there anything else I can help you with?"
"I don't think so. All he wanted to do was to find out if there was anything else he had inherited and to claim it if…thank you Gobbes, you've been a great help." Ginny said before standing up.
Ginny urged Harry onto his feet, grabbed all three files and guided Harry out of the office. She walked over to where they had been sitting before, she did not know what to do but to wait to for Sirius. After about an hour Ginny was concerned, more than she had been. Harry was still in a state of shock. She was paying attention only to Harry and jumped when Sirius spoke.
"Sorry that it took so long. We can…sorry Ginny I didn't…what's wrong with Harry?"
"Well he has two more…well, he has two files that are separate from each but still related. That's what Gobbes said. Harry claimed all of it. One file is labeled Evans the other is labeled Granger. Honestly I think that Harry expected nothing to happen. I'm sure a part of him hoped…just didn't expect. He hasn't even looked through the files yet. Will you be able to apparate both of us back? I'm not staying behind alone and Harry's not in the right state of mind to be left behind alone."
"I don't know, with Harry out of it…I could get Charlie…hold on, is that…is that Dumbledore?"
Ginny looked where Sirius was staring.
"Yes. It's Dumbledore. But how would he be able to help? We can't…"
"He can help by taking one of you to my house. I'm sure that you'd be okay with being there alone…well Kreacher will be there."
"I could live with that. But I'm holding onto the files though. Harry should be the first one to look through them. I know my brothers and their lack of ignoring curiosity."
"Hello Sirius, Ginny and Harry…"
"Albus good to see you. I could really use your help. That is if you have time."
"I do have some time. I was just taking care of some things and checking on others. What can I help with?"
"Could you take Ginny to my place? Number twelve Grimmuald Place."
"Sure, not a problem. Is Harry alright?"
"He's had a bit of a shock Professor. I'm sure that one day he'll tell you about it." Explained Ginny.
"I see. Well are you ready young lady?"
"As ready as I'll ever be." Ginny said grudgingly.
"Take my arm."
Ginny had barely grasped Dumbledore's arm and was gone.
Sirius managed to get Harry on his feet. He held on to Harry firmly as he apparated to Potter Manor.
"Oh my. What happened? Is Harry okay? Where's Ginny?" Asked Hermione.
"Dumbledore took her to my place. Harry has had a shock once again. Keep an eye on him. I'll be right back with Ginny."
"Dumbledore?" Asked Ron.
"We bumped into him in Gringotts."
"What happened?" Asked Ron.
"It would appear that Harry has two more inheritances and he claimed them. It seems that Harry is indeed a pure blood. The curious thing is that the name Granger is involved."
"It could mean anyone." Said Hermione.
"Would it really be all that bad if you found out that you're not a Muggle born?"
"I'm not saying that Ron. No it wouldn't be bad at all. I'm not going to allow myself to divulge in what if this or that."
"While I go get Ginny, someone please ask Sparky or Muri to fix a pick-me-up of some sort for Harry."
"Yes." Called out Hermione as Sirius disapparated.
Several minutes later Sirius returned with Ginny.
"Not a word out of you three." Ginny said pointing at her brothers.
"What?" Asked all three.
"Well, as we, Dumbledore and I, appeared in the living room at Sirius's I thought I saw someone dash into the kitchen. Once Dumbledore left I investigated…"
"Ginny are you crazy? It…"
"Shut up Ron! It was only Draco. He'd just stepped out of the fireplace when Dumbledore and I apparated into the living room."
"Draco is okay though, right?" Harry asked snapping out of his stupor.
"Yes. He was bored and took advantage of his father's lack of presence at Malfoy Manor. Lucius is at St. Mungo's. The healers are having a difficult time healing him. With so many injuries to tend to of course they'll have a difficult time. You know very well that Draco was checking to be sure that he could get to Sirius's if he needed to. He didn't mention anything about the letter. I'm sure he'll get it soon if not today when he returns to Malfoy Manor."
"That's a relief. For a moment I thought…I know I don't need to finish saying it. Oh…sorry about…"
"No need to apologize Harry. Maybe the files should be put in the study, that way you know where they are when you're ready to go through them." Hermione said warmly.
"Is that okay Harry?" Asked Ginny.
"Yeah, that's fine. Find a good place to put the files."
"I will, I promise." Ginny said as she headed towards the staircase.
"I really don't feel like being cooped up inside. I haven't even looked around the grounds."
"When Ginny comes back down we can roam around the grounds for a while." Suggested Hermione.
"Now that sounds like a good idea." Ginny said as she reached the bottom step.
"Don't get lost. I don't want to explain how you all got lost. Although, I really wouldn't be able to explain anything to Lucy and Greg Granger…"
"We'll be careful. I'm sure that if we were to get lost that it we nicely asked Sparky or Muri they'd help us get back to the Manor." Said Ron.
"Don't worry Sirius, we'll be fine." Harry assured Sirius.
Several hours alter the sun was setting and the six kids had not yet explored the entire property. Harry and Ginny found a quiet relaxing spot. It was on the grounds in front of the Manor. There was a fountain in the shape of a Griffin, a few benches around the fountain and enough trees that would provide a decent amount of shade during the day.
"What are you thinking about?" Asked Ginny.
"Just that I should request for the elves to tend to the grounds. It's a bit overgrown."
"You should also ask them to inventory everything. Or at least what they know, have them collect samples of everything so that we can help label them. That way you'll have a guide to what is growing here."
"Good idea. I should request that they collect three sets of samples of everything."
"Why three sets?"
"One for here, one to send to Professor Snape…anonymously of course, and on to send to Neville…I think he would really like it and a book on Herbology, one that he hasn't yet seen and if I can find one."
"You know it will drive Snape mad trying to figure out who sent it to him."
"It will be perfect. No one would be able to say that I'm trying to bribe him."
"We should get back to the Manor, it's getting dark."
"I know we should bur I want to stay out here a little longer. I'll get us back to the Manor safely and quickly."
"We stay as long as you want then. It's really nice to be able to spend time together and no one around…at least not within the vicinity…you know what I mean."
Harry smiled and held Ginny close to him. The sun completely set and Harry stood up.
"We should really get back. Knowing your brothers…er…knowing Ron…Hold on to me."
Ginny did as Harry requested and second later found herself to be standing in the entry.
"Look! I told you they weren't lost." Said Hermione.
"Who thought we were lost?" Asked Ginny.
"Ron. Who else?" Said Hermione.
"Figures." Said Ginny.
"Nothing to worry about. They're here now and that's all that matters." Said Sirius.
"And yes dinner is ready." Said Hermione.
Once everyone was in the dining room Sparky and Muri brought out the food, juice and butterbeer.
"Sparky after dinner I would like a calming potion, something to help me sleep. I'll be turning in early."
"Yes Master."
"Thank you Sparky."
As everyone finished up eating dinner Sparky brought Harry what he asked for. After Harry drank down the potion he headed up to bed.
When Harry walked into his room he saw a box sitting on his bed. Once he was next to his bed he could see that there were clothes in the box. He found several changes of clothes as he looked through the box. He also found sleepwear. Harry put the clothes away and changed into something to sleep in. He crawled into bed, put his glasses on the nightstand, got comfortable and closed his eyes. Once again he dreamed about a very private time spent with Ginny before taking off to hunt down Horcuxes.
Harry woke up early the following morning. Earlier than he had since school let out for the summer. He put on his glasses and saw Ginny stretched out on his bed with a determined look on her face.
"One of these days you're going to tell me what you keep dreaming about. I want to know if it's something you want to happen and or something that happened before you sent yourself back in time."
"I will tell you…one of these days. I promise I will."
"So what are we doing today? Explore more of the grounds? Or start going through everything in the study?"
"I thought that we'd look through the Evans and Granger boxes. But first, we'll have breakfast."
"No one else is up yet."
"I'm sure that Sparky or Muri will make us breakfast."
"Can we down to the dining room quickly, or do we have to climb down two flights of stairs?"
"Well, if you come here and hold on to me, we'll get to the dining room a lot quicker." Harry said as he climbed out of the bed.
Ginny smiled as she crawled across the bed. Once standing she wrapped her arms around Harry's neck and rested her head against his chest.
"Good morning Master and Miss. Weasley."
"Good morning Muri. So, how did you know anyone was up?" Asked Harry.
"Alarm. All rooms have alarm charms. We hears them and knows breakfast need be made. You both sit, Muri bring breakfast out."
"Thank you Muri." Said Ginny and Harry.
Harry and Ginny ate in silence enjoying the time alone. As they stood up they could hear faint footsteps and soft grumbling. Harry quickly pulled Ginny into his arms and apparated into the study.
"Illuminate." Harry said as he snapped his fingers.
"Shall we start on the Evans boxes?"
"You read my mind. I want to find out as much as I can about my m…mum's side of the family."
"We could look through the files from Gringotts first."
"Good idea."
Ginny walked over to where the wooden box that contained the vials from Harry's parents at and carefully pulled out the files. She set the folder containing the copies showing that Harry had claimed everything.
Harry and Ginny looked around for somewhere to look through the files. Ginny spotted a desk but it was blocked by furniture.
"We could clear a path to the desk or take the files into the library."
"Lets go to the library. We can sit at one of the tables in the middle of the room."
Once sitting at a table, Harry and Ginny started looking through the files. The first file they looked through was the Granger one, Harry was not quite ready to look through the Evans file. They found documentation of a house with a general location as to where it would be. There were three documents with a key attached to each one. These documents were about vaults at Gringotts, one contained jewels and heirlooms; one was set up for children's education and the last one was the main, family vault.
"I am going to take a peak inside these vaults as soon as I can, or well before summer ends any way. I am really curious about the house. I have a feeling that it just might be connected to Hermione."
"It is possible. I just had a thought. At the Ministry, the wizards and or witches that won't listen to the portrait of Harrold…I wouldn't be surprised if they've been told by the Minister to update and strengthen the detection slowly. I mean with how long it has been and he didn't notice or check on it…it wouldn't look to good for the Ministry or at least the Minister himself."
"I think you're right. If they update and strengthen quickly it will be obvious. Although, it still be obvious in time. There will be a constant need for the other wizarding school's to handle the overflow. He should just get it over with. Then again, this could be something to add to the list of reason's to get rid of the old fart."
"I've had enough talk about the 'old fart', how about you?"
"Me too."
"So, lets see what is in the Evans file."
"Gladly."
As they looked through the Evans file, it was the same as the Granger file. The one difference was that in the Evans file there was another house. This other house was located in the U.S. The brief description about this house made it sound about as big as Hogwarts.
"Harry we should ask Sirius if we can take a peak at the two houses that are relatively close by."
"It certainly won't hurt to ask."
"It sounds like Ron is having a panic attack. If they'd just look around first no one would freak out."
Harry got up, walked out to the library and stopped at the top of the staircase.
"What's gong on?" Asked Harry.
"Ron's freaking out all because he didn't see you or Ginny at breakfast. I knew you'd be in the house or out side." Hermione explained.
"Hey Ron, I have a suggestion for you." Harry said loudly
"Go on."
"Before freaking out or panicking, try looking around first or call out for us or anyone. Just a friendly suggestion."
"Shut up."
"I was only making a suggestion. I do have to admit that it's nice to know that you really care."
"Of course I care, you're my best friends and Ginny is my sister."
"Ginny and I were up really early. We had breakfast and then came up here. We've been looking through the Evans and Granger files."
"Well…" Said Ron.
"In all there's two houses fairly near by, well closer to Hogwarts than here and one in the U.S. And there's six vaults at Gringotts."
"Blimey." Was all that Ron could say.
"Oh, is Sirius up yet?"
"With Ron's panic attack, how could I not be up yet?"
"I'm sure you heard me say…"
"Three houses and six vaults."
"Okay, well two of the houses are in Aviemore. It's approximately thirty miles from Duff Town. I would really like to go look at the houses. I really want to go now."
"Harry…"
"All we would have to do is find a deserted area or wait until its' dark, call for the Knight Bus to take us to Hogsmead station, stay the night in Hogsmead and then find a way to Aviemore weather it by the Knight Bus or any other means of transportation. Or we could just find a place to sleep in Duff Town and then go on to Aviemore."
"Believe me Harry, I understand. We can't just up and go. Lucy and Greg have agreed for Hermione to stay the rest of the summer so no problem there. I don't think that Molly and Arthur would appreciate it if I took off with four of their children and not have said anything."
"Well, what are you waiting for? Go ask Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. Please."
"Harry…um…I'm sure that Moony would appreciate knowing where he is. You're the only one that can." Said Hermione.
"Crap! I can't believe that I forgot."
"Don't beat yourself up over it. You've had other things on your mind. Remus will understand. While I talk to Molly and Arthur you can fill Remus in on what he missed out on." Sirius said just before disapparating.
"Sparky!"
-crack-
"Yes Master." He said as he looked up at Harry from the first floor.
"Please take me down to the cellar." Harry said as he ran down the staircase.
"Follow me."
Harry followed Sparky across the entry, through the hallway as though going to the living room. They passed the smaller hall, which lead off the main hall, and continued on until the hall ended. There was a door in front of them, one on the right and one on the left.
"Where do all these doors lead?" Harry asked as he faced the door to his left.
"This door leads to the cellar. The one behind you to small study, Master Harrison keep business in there. The last door lead to back of house."
When Sparky opened the door Harry could see a fairly narrow staircase leading down. As Harry followed Sparky, torches lighted their way. As they reached the bottom, Harry could hear Remus muttering incoherently.
"Moony."
"Harry?"
"Yeah. I'm so sorry that I forgot."
"Forgot? Where am I?"
"My house. Potter Manor, up the mountain from Malfoy Manor. Wiltshire, South Central Briton. There's a lot to tell you, but I'm sure you'd like a…more comfortable meal and well to be comfortable. I would have been down sooner…I got sidetracked."
"No harm done Harry. You're here now and I'm relieved to know where I am. I was…it doesn't matter. Yes I would like to be comfortable…more than I am now. And it would be nice to have a meal…to normally have a meal."
Remus followed Harry and Sparky back up to the entry and into the dining room. While Remus ate, Harry told him everything that had happened with Ginny's help.
"Sparky hear Master wants samples of what grow on property?"
"Yes I do. I would appreciate it if you and the rest of the house-elves could get three samples of everything and label them. If you don't know what all of it, label what you can and we'll help with the rest. One set of samples I want packaged to be sent out to someone as soon as possible, so please set up those samples for being delivered. Another set will be sent out as well but not right away. And the last one will stay here to help me figure out what everything is."
"Sparky make sure it done. We knows everything growing. We clean up grounds at same time."
"Thank you Sparky."
Sparky bowed and excitedly headed for the door that lead to the house-elves quarters. Harry heard Sirius's voice and ran out of the dining room.
"So…"
"They said it was fine…"
"But?"
"Um…Harry…you might want to get dressed first."
"Oh, yeah, I probably should."
"And maybe a couple changes of clothes."
"I suppose." Harry said before apparating to his room.
Once everyone was ready they met in the entry.
"Remus, do you remember the alley near the Leaky Cauldron?" Sirius asked.
"That I do."
"Why?" Asked Harry.
"We will need to stop in Diagon Alley. Do you have any money? Enough to cover the cost of the Knight Bus for all of us?"
"No…okay, lets go. Wait…how are we going to do this?"
"Remus and I can each take two. I thought that maybe you would feel comfortable taking someone with you."
"I guess…I have apparated there by my self so no problem."
"I suggest that the one you take be someone you're comfortable with. As in who you've been apparating around the Manor with. Yes, Harry, I know you have been. I was your age once and I understand. I'm sure you are comfortable with all of your friends and would be comfortable apparating with any one of them. You're used to Ginny, her height, weight, body temp…you wouldn't have to see her to know that she is with you." Explained Sirius.
"We get it Sirius. Well, no one should be offended by it anyway. I think that Ron and I should go with Moony. We're younger…I think it's best, Ron and I are…easier to manage…no offense, but with everything Moony has been through recently…Fred and George well…they're Fred and George." Said Hermione.
"I'm fine with that." Said Sirius.
"No offense taken Hermione." Said the twins.
"Okay…lets do this then." Harry said wanting this to have been done and behind them.
Hermione and Ron held onto Remus, Fred and George held on to Sirius and Harry and Ginny held on to each other and apparated to the alley.
"It's cleaner than last time." Muttered Ginny.
"As it's still early and not many Muggles around let's quickly get moving." Whispered Sirius.
"Sirius, with there being so many of us this time…we shouldn't all step out at the same time. It would look suspicious if two adult and six children walk out of an alley…all at once that is. We should go in groups. Ginny and I could go first or second."
"Moony, Hermione and Ron can go first, then us and then Sirius and the twins. I know my brothers they will not be happy if I go first or last." Said Ginny.
They all agreed to leave the alley as Ginny had stated. Everyone relaxed only when they all had made it to the Leaky Cauldron.
The group made their way through the Leaky Cauldron, out the back door, through the archway leading to Diagon Alley. As they headed towards Gringotts, Harry was becoming impatient. He kept thinking that he had to find a way to connect his house to the floo network without making the performance of the Fidelius Charm be for nothing. Though Harry knew that the Minister could not tell anyone the location of the Manor it would not stop the Minister from showing others a piece of paper with the location of the Manor in his writing. Harry knew there had to be a way to do it and without the Minister every knowing. Out of the corner of an eye Harry could see the bushy-brown hair of Hermione and it hit him how he could pull it off, at least partly. Harry was pulled out of his thoughts when they were inside Gringotts and greeted by a Goblin.
"I need to make a withdrawal from the Black family vault." Sirius said kindly to the Goblin.
"The next available Goblin will assist you."
"Thank you." Said Sirius.
"I, also, need to make a withdrawal. Not from my personal vault but the Potter family vault." Harry quickly said before the Goblin walked off.
"As soon as a Goblin becomes available."
"Thank you." Said Harry.
"Harry?" Asked Sirius.
"What? I'm the one that want this…for lack of a better word…trip. I will pitch in with financing this trip."
"IF you want to. Oh…Harry this reminds me…the last time I was here…what you said about…er…well suggested I try to do something…"
"Oh yeah. Were you?"
"Yes. Not to worry, it's in a safe place…only accessible to us."
"Good." Harry said relieved to know that one more Horcrux was close to being destroyed.
Once Harry and Sirius made their withdrawals and converted some of it to Muggle money, they all went back to the Leaky Cauldron for a quick bit to eat.
"Are you sure that there's no quicker, easier way to get to Hogsmead?" Grumbled Ron.
"Well, what in your opinion would be a better quicker and easier way?" Asked Fred.
"I'm sure that the only way, except for when going to school and coming back, is the Knight Bus." Said George.
"I don't know. Couldn't we apparate or something?"
"We could, but I'm not sure it would be the safest. No one has apparated with more than two side-a-longs. And I am not going to find out if it is possible." Said Sirius.
"Sorry to intrude, but you could use the floo network. I do have a connection, only directly to Madam Rosemerta's." Said Tom.
"That sounds great!" Said Ron excitedly.
"That would be great if we could." Said Sirius.
"Let me give her a heads up first. She won't like it if you all just show up."
"Thank you Tom. Even if she says 'no', thank you for the offer and for trying."
"No problem. And don't worry about paying me for the floo powder you sue or replenishing it. I have more than enough." Tom said as he turned to head back to the bar.
"Ron, thank you for asking the question. I have to admit that I was not looking forward to the Knight Bus." Said Harry.
A few minute later Tom returned.
"She said it's okay for all of you to floo to her pub. But you'll have to hurry, it's a slow point at the moment."
All eight got up, Harry and Sirius paid for the food and drink and all followed Tom around the bar and through a door.
"Thank you again, Tom." Said Harry.
Sirius went through first, the children followed one at a time and then Remus went through last.
"I see you all made it. Quickly please, I don't want everyone to know that I have a floo connection."
Once they were all out in front, Sirius carefully made an inquiry with Madam Rosemerta.
"I don't have eight rooms available at the moment. I do have five, the children can bunk."
"It will have to do. Thank you Madam Rosemerta."
"Enjoy your stay."
"So, is she going to let us stay? She seems a bit put out by allowing us to floo here." Remus asked as Sirius returned to the group.
"Yes. There are only five rooms available. Fred and George will share, Ron and Harry will share and Hermione and Ginny will share. Harry I know you want to check out the houses as soon as possible, but we can use the rest. We lucked out being able to floo here, I'm not going to expect to luck out again. One step at a time, okay. I for one do not want to take the Knight Bus all the way to Aviemore, maybe to Duff Town."
"Sirius, are you thinking of taking a Muggle taxi from Duff Town to Aviemore?"
"Maybe. I'm not sure yet."
"Sirius, do you have any Muggle money? I mean regardless of transportation, what if we are unable to acquire lodging in a magical establishment or any type of magical establishment?"
"I thought about that Hermione and yes I exchanged some gold for Muggle money."
"So did I." Said Harry.
"Do we really have to have a layover? The Knight Bus…"
"I am full aware of the operations of the Knight Bus Ron. Yes, it will be good to get some rest. Harry and Ginny I'm sure could really use it more than the rest of us."
"Couldn't they rest on the Knight Bus?" Asked Ron.
"Not really." Replied Harry.
"Harry and Ginny being the only one's that need the rest, why rent all the available rooms?" Asked Ron.
"Yes, Harry and Ginny need the rest, but the rest of could do with some rest as well. Before we reach Aviemore we should find out what we will be facing. I don't know about all of you, but I personally would like to know if there are actually any magical establishments and where they are before we get there. I don't want to assume anything." Said Remus.
"Moony has a good point." Said Harry.
"Harry, Ginny, I strongly suggest that both of you go up to your rooms and rest. Both of you have been up the longest. Fred, George, Ron and Hermione, I suggest that you four do the same. Not to worry Remus and I will rest we have figured out some sort of plan."
Harry and Ginny quickly went up to their rooms. Neither thought that they really needed the rest, but followed Sirius's strong suggestion. Not much time passed and they both nodded off.
A few hours later Sirius left his room. As he passed Harry and Ginny's rooms he glanced in to find each asleep, minus Ron and Hermione. The other two rooms were empty. Sirius reached the staircase and quickly climbed down. He instantly spotted Remus, Fred, George, Ron and Hermione.
As Sirius reached the table he could see that Remus looked refreshed, the twins seemed to be groggy and Ron and Hermione didn't look as though they had rested at all.
"Ron, Hermione, did either of you rest at all?" Asked Sirius.
"Yes. We did rest, maybe not as long or as much as everyone else." Replied Hermione.
"I take it that Harry and Ginny are sleeping." Said Remus.
"Yes. I can't wake them, they obviously need it." Said Sirius.
"So, what's in store for us?" Asked the twins.
"There is a pub in Duff Town that is only visible to magic folk. Madam Rosemerta isn't sure, but there might be one or two magic folk friendly establishments in Aviemore." Answered Sirius.
"Are we having lunch before we go?" Asked Ron.
"I wouldn't recommend or suggest it." Said Remus.
"I'm definitely not having lunch before we go. Ron, you seem to have forgotten what the ride is like on the Knight Bus. I know it has been a while but I would think that it would have given a lasting impression on you." Said Harry as he and Ginny reached the bottom step.
"Harry, Ginny, sorry but I didn't want to wake you." Said Sirius.
"It's okay." Said Harry.
"I know it's been a while, but it can't have been all that bad." Said Ron.
"Trust me, you do not want to eat just before taking the Knight Bus. And, Ron, you will remember how it is on the Knight Bus once we are moving along on it." Said Harry.
"Okay, is everyone ready?" Asked Remus and Sirius.
"Yes." Harry and Ginny said excitedly as everyone else only nodded.
Once outside, with wand in hand Remus stuck out his arm. Seconds later with a 'BANG' a purple bus pulled up and stopped in front of the small group. A young man of about nineteen with several pimples covering his face, teeth looking rotten and large ears protruding out of each side of his head.
"Welcome to the Knight Bus, emergency transportation for a stranded witch or wizard or transportation for groups of four or more. We can take you anywhere you want to go on land. Come aboard, sit back and relax. My name is Stan Shunpike and I will be your conductor for this warm late afternoon."
Everyone grabbed and securely held onto his or her bag and climbed aboard the Knight Bus. To Harry's surprise and relief, the Knight Bus was nearly empty. Harry was pleased to see that there were still chairs and tables, he was not sure when the chairs and tables were replaced with the beds. He was also happy to see that there were eight empty chairs and that they were together in the same area. He quickened his steps and sat in the chair between Ginny and Hermione. As Harry sat down he could see Stan following Remus. Stan waited patiently for everyone to get situated.
"Where 'bouts ya'll goin'?"
"The Dragon's Keep, Duff Town." Said Remus.
"That'll be sixteen Galleons."
Harry quickly pulled out eight Galleons and handed them to Stan.
"My Godfather will cover the other half."
"You 'ear that Ern? Dragon's Keep, Duff Town."
"Ar." Replied the driver, Ernie.
"Take 'er away Ern."
As Stan turned and walked away, but before the Knight Bus took off, Harry quickly got up and managed to put freezing charms on all of their chairs and returned to his. A second later, with a 'BANG' the Knight Bus took off. Harry was relived that the freezing charms held up as he was thrust backwards into his chair, he and his chair had not toppled over. He quickly looked around to see that the charms held for the rest of the chairs as well. Harry relaxed somewhat in his seat. He was consumed with relief and excitement was not thinking ahead for when the Knight Bus would come to a stop. He was also focused on not laughing at Ron who was nearly as pale as a ghost and clutching the arms of his chair with a death grip. Seconds later the Knight Bus came to a stop sending all but Ron flying out of his or her seats. As Harry quickly got up and returned to his chair he could see ton was mostly out of his chair, but still clutching the arms of the chair. It looked as though Ron had slid out of his chair. After a, short, while the Knight Bus came to a halt once again. Those that had gone flying had barely sat back down in his or her chair when Stan appeared.
"The Dragon's Keep, Duff Town."
Ron was the first one off the Knight Bus. As the last of them stepped onto the ground the Knight Bus disappeared with a 'BANG'.
"I never want to go on that bus again!" Ron said looking a little green.
"Now do you think that a lasting impression has been made?" Harry asked jokingly.
Ron did not respond to Harry.
"Sorry to break it to you Ron, but we just might have to use the Knight Bus again." Said Remus.
Ron hung his head and slowly followed everyone inside the Dragon's Keep. Once inside The Dragon's Keep looked like a dungeon dimly lit by torches along the walls. There were stranger wizarding folk and creatures then one would see at The Leaky Cauldron or The Hog's Head or even at Madam Rosemerta's sitting at tables and at the bar.
Sirius slowly made his way to the bar. Harry, Ginny, Hermione, Ron and the twins stayed very close together behind Sirius. Remus was following closely as he kept his eyes alert to his surroundings.
"Welcome to The Dragon's Keep. My name is Gavin, what can I do for you?"
"We are in need of lodging and something to eat and drink."
"Don't get many from London." Said the barman, scrutinizing the group before him.
"Madam Rosemerta suggested your establishment." Sirius said nervously.
"Ah, she's still ticking. Grab a table and someone will be out shortly. I'll see what I have available."
"Thank you Gavin." Said Sirius as he turned and motioned for everyone to find a table.
A minute or two after the group claimed a table, a short, pudgy young woman with a slight limp came over to their table. She was not much of a looker.
"What'll ya'll have. Ya name it, we make it."
Each in turn told the woman what he or she wanted. As the woman walked off, Ginny reached her right arm over and grasped Harry's left hand. Harry closed his hand around Ginny's and firmly held on to her hand.
Once their food and drink arrived they ate in silence. After they had, had their fill of food and rink they sat back in their seats, relaxed a fraction and glanced around in continued silence. Sirius and Remus both sat up straight as they spotted Gavin heading in their direction.
"I only have four rooms available."
"We'll take them." Sirius confirmed.
"Follow me."
Though slowly, each got up, grabbed his or her bag and followed Gavin through the pub, to the left of the bar and up a rickety spiral staircase and down a hall on the right passing several rooms until they reached the end of the hall. There were two rooms on either side of the hall. Gavin gave them a nod and left.
Sirius quickly checked each room before assigning them. The room that was the larges he assigned to Harry, Ginny, Hermione and Ron and the second largest to the twins. These two rooms were the two at the end of the hall across from each other. Sirius took the other room on the same side as the youngest four. Leaving Remus to be on the same side as the twins.
Harry walked into the room he was sharing with his friends, dropped his bag by one of the beds and stretched out on it.
"This room is big, but still why not two to a room?" Asked Ron.
"Less rooms for Sirius and Moony to worry about and check on." Said Hermione.
"That and the four of us are better protected grouped together. Hermione is the brightest of our year, and Ginny of hers, I know some good spells and such and Ron you won't let us relax a bit. You know keep us on alert. Any one stupid enough to mess with Fred and George…well they'll be asking for it."
"That makes sense, but I think that it also has to do with the fact that in a dire emergency Harry, that you'd be able to get the four of us out of here and to where we will, with out a doubt, be safe." Said Ginny.
"True. Now knowing that you're a descendant of Merlin along with knowing you can do great magic, anything is possible. I mean, you could get the four of us to safety easily and not necessarily by apparating…Merlin could go from one place to another in the blink of an eye if he wanted and not by apparating. Don't either of you boys…?"
"Yes, Hermione, I know Ron and I should read more." Said Harry.
"In Ron's case shouldn't it just be simply that he should read?" Said Ginny.
Ron glared at Ginny as Harry and Hermione looked at each other and concentrated on not laughing.
Before anything else could be said, Sirius, Remus and the twins walked into the room. Harry could tell that Sirius wanted to talk to all of them privately about something and was nervous about saying it. Harry quickly cast Muffliato once the door was closed.
"No one, but us, will hear what you have to say." Harry said to Sirius.
"Okay, I don't know about all of you, but this place gives me the creeps. I do not feel the sense of safety, so I want you kids to put in place every single protective spell, charm and enchantment on your doors tonight. Remus and I will put in place our own out in the hall, but if one were to get through…I don't want to make it easy for anyone to get to any of you. I want to be ready to leave this place by ten-thirty in the morning. I really wished we'd just taken the Knight Bus all the way to Aviemore. Oh and no leaving your rooms for anything other than myself or Remus."
"Okay." Agreed all six kids.
"So, I have your word…Fred your word."
"Yes."
"George your word."
"Yes."
"Ron your word."
"Yes."
"Hermione your word."
"Yes."
"Ginny your word."
"Yes."
"Harry your word."
"Yes."
"Okay I feel a little better. Now, Harry, Ginny, Hermione and Ron, when I leave I want each of you to put your own protection on the door. No waiting around, do it the second the door clicks shut." Said Sirius.
"We will. I promise, Sirius, we will." Said Harry.
As Remus followed the twins out of the room Harry removed the Muffliato spell. Out in the hall Remus stood there listening for the twins to place their protective force. Once he heard the muffled voices of the twins casting their protective spells, charms and enchantments. Remus then walked up to just past his and Sirius's rooms and placed his own protection before going to bed.
Sirius reluctantly left the room. He waited out in the hall until he could hear the muffled voice of Harry and then placed his own protection before turning in himself.
After Harry, Ginny, Hermione and Ron had placed their own protection, Ginny nearly glued herself to Harry. Hermione was staying close to Ron looking as though she was not going to sleep at all.
"Even though we placed some protection…I don't see any of us sleeping. I know I won't be able to." Said Ron matching Sirius's concern and unease.
"There is no way that I am sleeping. This place is really creepy, more creepy than what I've heard about Nocturne Alley." Said Hermione.
"I know what you mean Hermione. I know I won't be able to sleep, especially not separately…" Ginny said agreeing with Hermione.
"We could strip down the beds to just the mattresses, put the beds together, place a simply sticking charm so that the beds won't be able to slide apart and then remake the bed…" Said Harry.
"You mean, make one big bed and all of us sleep on it?" Asked Hermione.
"Yeah. Why not?" Asked Harry.
"I'm not complaining or disagreeing. I just wanted to be sure that my ears weren't tricking me." Said Hermione.
"So, this sticking charm that you know…."
"Is not the permanent sticking charm. This one can be reversed." Harry said cutting off Ron.
They quickly stripped the beds and as quietly as possible moved the beds together. Harry then casted the sticking charm and helped the other three make the bed.
"I think the girls should be in the middle." Said Ron.
"Okay." Agreed Hermione and Ginny.
It didn't even bother Ron that Ginny would be next to Harry. Ron silently refused to be the one sleeping closest to the door. All four fell asleep despite their determined protests and insistence.
Ginny and Hermione woke up just before what sounded like a booming loud, high pitched screech owl screaming filled the room. Hermione and Ginny looked at each other as Harry sat straight up clutching his chest and frantically looking around with his wand out ready to strike. Ron fell out of the bed and landed with a loud, hard 'thud'.
"What the bloody hell was that?" Asked Ron once it was quiet.
"So sorry. I set an alarm after Sirius left. I didn't know it was going to be so horrible." Said Hermione.
"But it's seven-thirty! Sirius doesn't want to leave until ten-thirty." Argued Ron.
"No, Sirius wants to leave by ten-thirty. We have to put this room back to how it was, we each have to remove the protection we placed on the door and have breakfast. By the looks of it, Ron, you should probably take a shower to help wake up." Said Hermione.
"I'm pretty sure that I am awake enough. I don't want to eat anything if we have to take the Knight Bus again." Said Ron.
"Well, if we hurry and put this room right, we can have breakfast and have time to let the food settle before we climb aboard the Knight Bus." Said Harry.
"I'd rather not chance it." Said Ron.
The four of them put the room back to how it had been when they first entered the room. Each in turn changed in the bathroom and then sat down to wait. Not being sure what to do, they waited. They had given Sirius their word that they would not leave the room for anything other than for him or Remus. Only Harry's protective charms, spells and enchantments remained on the door. All four jumped when they heard a knock on the door.
"Harry? Are you all up?"
"Sirius?"
"Yes. Let's get going. I'd rather all of us sit around together while breakfast settles before…quickly okay."
"We'll be out in a minute." Harry said and then silently removed the protection he had placed.
All eight headed down to the main part of the pub, grabbed a table and had breakfast. As they all finished eating, Gavin walked over to their table.
"Don't mean to stick my nose where it don't belong, but where ya'll headed? There are multiple means of transportation available in these parts, unless ya prefer the Knight Bus."
"We're headed to Aviemore…"
"Sirius? Sirius Black?"
Sirius turned to see a tall, gorgeous woman with long caramel colored hair and brilliant blue eyes standing feet from him.
"Hello…um…"
"It's me, Aileen."
"Ali?"
"Unbelievable! Of all the wizards I know you're the one that forgot about me. The wizard that never forgets…Oh, Grimmy, how could you forget about dear sweet Ali?" She playfully chided.
Sirius paled as he choked and sprayed Remus with butterbeer and then turned a deep pink. Remus fell out of his chair laughing while wiping off his face. Fred, George, Hermione, Ron, Harry and Ginny looked each other with confused yet curious expressions and smiling.
"I didn't…forget…you…I just…" Sirius sputtered
"You just what? You just didn't remember my name? It's practically the same thing. Maybe I didn't give you a good enough…impression, but I'm sure I could give you a lasting one now…"
"So, Ali, how have you been?" Asked Sirius in an attempt to change the direction of the conversation.
"Trying to change the subject I see. Well to be honest, I've been good. And I can see that the years have been good to you. I never would have thought that you could improve…but ooh…I do like this look better than…"
"So, Ali what brings you to the area?" Sirius asked quickly.
"Oh, just passing through on my way to…did you say that you're headed to Aviemore?"
"Um…Yes I…"
"I'm going in that direction myself. Why don't you, Remus and…"
"This is my Godson, Harry and his friends Hermione, Ron, Ginny, Fred and George."
"Well, you're all welcome to catch a ride with me. There's plenty of room. You all can wait for the Knight Bus or wait at least an hour for another means of transportation if you like or give me a few minutes and we'll be off. You think about it Sirius and let me know on my way out."
Once Ali was not within hearing distance and preoccupied, Sirius slugged Remus in the arm hard when he had re-seated himself in his chair still laughing.
"What?" Asked Remus.
"Quit it!" Sirius said flushed and not due to the temperature in the room or due to whatever he had been drinking.
"I'm not doing anything."
"It's not funny."
"You're right it's not funny…it's hilarious."
"There is nothing to laugh about."
"You have to admit that Ali does have a point."
"And what would that be?"
"You of all wizards, the one that never forgets a thing, forgot her name. I knew who it was when I heard her voice."
"Shut up!"
"So, Sirius are we going to Aviemore with Ali?" Asked Remus.
"I don't think it would be a good idea…"
"Oh come on, it's been several years since you…"
"Remus."
"It will give you and Ali a chance to catch up. It can't be all that bad, I mean it's not like you'll be all alone with her."
"Oh all right." Relented Sirius grudgingly.
Before Harry or anyone could ask anything, Ali had returned.
"So, Grimmy, are all of you going to Aviemore with me or wait for something else?"
"It looks as though we are catching a ride with you." Sirius said slightly reluctantly.
"Just give us a minute or two, Ali." Said Remus.
Ali smiled, nodded and headed to the door with a few bags of food. When she reached the door she looked back at Sirius and said, "Oh, Sirius I thought you should know that Carmen is accompanying me to Aviemore." And then walked out.
Sirius looked as though he wanted to die. Remus fell over again laughing. After a few minutes Remus managed to stand up though he was still laughing so hard his face was purple and tears were rolling down his face. It was all Harry could do to not laugh at the scene before him. It looked as though Sirius and Remus had reverted back to their youth.
"All right now boys…" Said Fred.
"What's the big deal about Ali and Carmen?" Asked George.
"Oh, just two witches Sirius used to know before he met Ruby." Answered Remus.
"'It can't be all that bad', huh? It's much, much worse." Sirius said more flushed than before.
"And the wizard you are, you can't back out of accepting the invitation of a ride. Not that you don't have a choice, because you do. It's who you are." Remus said while softly laughing.
Sirius punched Remus in the arm on last time before walking out of The Dragon's Keep. Remus followed still laughing but trying to stop. Harry, Ginny, Ron and Hermione were smiling while they followed Remus out. The twins looked at each other and chuckled as they caught up to everyone else.
"Sirius! Don't you look…"
"Hello, Carmen." Remus said cutting her off.
"Remus, what a surprise. I would give you a bad time about not making sure that Sirius kept in touch, but I know most of what happened after the last time I saw him…although I do believe that Ali was the last one to see Sirius…"
"Carmen, I would like you to meet Sirius's Godson Harry and his friends, Ginny, Hermione, Ron, Fred and George. They're all coming with us." Said Remus.
"You mean as in Harry P…"
"Yes, yes. Let's not announce it to the public at large." Remus said cutting off Carmen again.
"So, why on earth are you, Sirius and six children so far from home?" Asked Carmen.
"Oh, just checking on something." Sirius answered.
"So, where exactly are you all going in Aviemore? Depending on where you are going, Carmen and I might be able to assist with directions."
At that moment Sirius realized that he had no idea as to where exactly in Aviemore they needed to be to check out the houses in the area. He quickly turned and looked at Harry questioningly.
Harry made eye contact with Sirius and thought and thought. He just couldn't remember what the files had said beyond Aviemore. In an attempt to remember and hoping that it would help him remember, Harry turned and looked at Ginny.
"Camelot's Castle." Ginny said understanding the minor dilemma.
"How perfect." Ali and Carmen said excitedly.
"Perfect?" Asked Sirius.
"That is where we are headed." Explained Carmen.
"But we won't be staying long though. Just the one night and then back on the road, as it's just a stop on the way to Kingussie." Said Ali.
"Mother is gravely ill. Yes there are quicker ways to get there but mother has become extremely paranoid along with her illness so it has made it impossible to get there in a timely fashion." Added Carmen.
"Tell you mother that I say 'hi' and that I wish a speedy recovery were possible."
"Yes, mother would just love that, Sirius." Said Ali sarcastically.
"After all these years your mother still doesn't like Sirius?" Asked Remus.
"She still doesn't like Sirius." Said Carmen and Ali.
"Wait a second…you're sisters?" Asked Ron.
"Yes we are. We're about a year apart, Ali is older." Said Carmen.
Hermione and Ginny were shaking their heads. Harry was also shaking his head but smiling. Ron had a smirk on his face and the twins wanted to know how Sirius managed to get the attention of two witches, sisters and were going to ask as soon as they could. It was noticeable on their faces that the twins saw Sirius as a God once again.
"Not to be rude, but can we go?" Asked Harry.
"We will. The children are welcome to climb in. You all don't have to wait out here for us."
"Ali! Be kinder! Besides we really do need to get going. Mother is already going to be livid, we should have been there already."
"Oh shit! Let's go. Oh, sorry Harry I didn't…"
"Don't worry about it."
Everyone quickly climbed in the, obviously enchanted, Dodge Intrepid. They arrive at Camelot's Castle just after lunchtime.
