(a/n): Well I did think I done something wrong when the first bunch of reviews came in. Positive ones came in later but it did give me reason to ponder. Some of it worth keeping in mind.
A salute to jbern. I read To Fight The Coming Darkness long after its completion, but it definitely helped draw me to Susan/Harry. I strongly recommend reading it. And I really need to read that Luna story. Why doesn't he just 'go to France?' All of them are just going to slap their foreheads one day. But, it's just that I've got something else in mind. There's a lot of bad!Ron/good!Hermione in my reading experience, but less of reverse.
If anyone still thinks Hermione couldn't turn as hostile as she has. That it's too OOC. An interpretation of her actions in canon in redstickbonbon's review says it all for me. Not understanding why Ron stayed with her? Your argument is very reasonable and logical. But how many beautiful women are with ugly guys who abuse and insult them all the time?
Charlie, "preferred dragons to women", according to Rowling. So I think it's easy for him to pick a hardened position and ignore consequences. But don't give up Runecutter. No one else sided with him (except Hermione) And he could come out for the good later. And no, it wasn't just about the business. Amelia said so right at the beginning, but it was something tangible that they were trying to drive the point home with.
Speculation on a replacement Regent for Harry included Arthur & Moody. That's handled here. Don't think I'm giving anything away by saying it's NOT Dumbledore. He's still wearing too many hats.
On Harry giving Snape respect, if only to show that he didn't reciprocate it (it's called "being the better man"). My first thought is that Harry isn't a man. I doubt it would occur to any kid, well Luna but not intentionally, to do that. And a Star Trek TOS episode Court Martial applies. Shaw asks McCoy "If A hates B, and shows it repeatedly, isn't likely B will reciprocate?"
Also must say hello to old-crow and, my regrets, but it sets the whole next arc in motion. Definitely read all of his stuff as well.
sprinter1988's review sets the theme. And the title of #26 gets us going.
26 – Harry Potter Avenger
"I'm waiting, Harry." Ginny said in an insistent, but not harsh, tone.
He replied "Right. I have two jobs as far as the Wizangamot is concerned. One, maintaining my House. Two, getting Amelia's murderer."
"But you're just a boy!" Ginny protested.
Harry gave a sour chuckle and retorted "Thank you Molly." His laugh was more real when she glared at him "Anyway, I'm months away from 17. Here's the problem, I don't do it everyone calls me a coward and they'll never respect me. I run off for what could be weeks, or months, and someone like Lucius will get the idea, probably by Friday, I abandoned my holdings."
"That's ridiculous!" she declared "Forget the first thing I said! You can't prove you can run a House if you have to abandon it to prove it!"
He shrugged "And worse. Wanna guess who my closest living blood relative is?"
"Narcissa Malfoy." It wasn't a guess "She's a Black."
He acknowledged it with a nod "And that's where you come in. I need a Head of House."
"Me?" she gasped "Just what makes you think I can pull that off? They'll laugh at me! I'm younger than you!"
He agreed "You're right, they probably will. But Amelia told me to find a person that fits two conditions. One, that I absolutely trust the person. And two, that has a reasonable claim to House Potter. Someone the Wizengamot has to recognize as legitimate."
"Susan?" Ginny asked, scared of the responsibility, and of his statement.
Harry shook his head, bitterly "She told me not to even consider it. Sirius, Ron, Sue, maybe Neville I'd trust. But Sirius, they'd Kiss. Ron and Neville aren't closely enough related. Sue, she's just my girlfriend, it'd never stand up. As my personal vassal, you're already a member of House Potter."
"You've given me so much, Harry." Said Ginny, thoroughly intimidated by what he was asking "All that money from the Basilisk. And let us not forget my soul. Harry, there's no way I can handle that kind of money! And besides, it's yours. I don't want it! I-i-i-i-i-i-"
He smirked at her and repeated "I-i-i-i? All about you? And you won't have to handle it. Let your Dad do it. I hear Mr. Weasley is pretty good with the stuff. According to her letter, look up the case of the MacNaughts back in the 1300s."
"Fine I'll do it." She reluctantly agreed "But I need to ask you something. It's probably bad timing, but I've always wanted to know."
He nodded and replied "Sure, we can talk as I pack. Come on up to my room." When they got to the dorm, Seamus was there with a Ravenclaw girl a year younger than Ginny. He barely spared their half-undressed state a glance. "Out!" he ordered "Now!"
"A little busy here, Harry!" the Irish-boy protested with a laugh.
Both were grabbed by the arm, pulled off the bed and shoved out the door in an eyeblink. To the banging on the door could be heard screaming and shouting. He demanded "What!"
"Our clothes are still on my bed!" came faintly through the heavy wood door.
From the perspective of the amorous pair, the opening of the door was a great relief "Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you" the girl said repeatedly.
"Now go away!" Harry shouted at them, throwing a bundle that included a pillow, a blanket and might, or might not, have clothes too. He slammed the door shut "imperturbatus!"
Ginny shook her head and commented wryly "Harry Potter finally invites me to his room and he's not even remotely interested in snogging."
"Come on Gin." He said impatiently "I'm in a bit of a hurry."
She shrugged "Actually it's pretty much what I wanted to know, Harry. I mean is there something wrong with me?"
"Huh?" grunted Harry as he looked up from tossing things out of his trunk. "What do you mean?"
She answered "I've had a crush on you for…well forever… And you never once made a pass at me. And this past year, you don't even have to ask. If you wanted to, you could've just-"
"Done what Charlie accused me of? Strip Ginny! And get in bed!?" he countered, coldly. Then his expression softened "Sorry, about that. Umm…. How'd she put it? Oh yeah, you didn't really have a crush on me, Gin. You had one on 'The-Boy-Who-Lived' - Don't look like that. It's true. How could you really love someone you never met?"
She nodded as an angry look left her eyes "But, you had a million chances. I didn't interest you? I'm not pretty? Why? … umm … Why not?"
"That's not true. You know that…I think." He answered "I really have to get out of here before someone stops me from leaving. But… with what I'm asking you to do… You deserve an answer. Ginny you saw what the Dursleys were like, yeah?"
She nodded "Muggles from hell."
"I lived with that all my life. You saw a summer where I was pretty much in charge. Imagine ten years, no one on my side. Hardly any friends. And, just for kicks, the occasional accidental magic to really set them off." He continued "Remember how you talked to me the first time we met?"
She replied "Uh-huh. When I found out who you were I was so embarrassed. I couldn't imagine just talking to the great Harry Potter like that."
"That's not how I saw it. And it was worse when you wouldn't talk to me that summer. By about Christmas time I was convinced you hated me." She blinked back a tear and he wiped it away, deciding to let the rest of his thought go "I don't think either of us can be blamed for then. Anyway, I'll tell you a secret. I didn't have much to hope for in Azkaban. I had a few dirty dreams about you."
Ginny blushed, but seemed greatly pleased "You have to tell me about it."
"Sorry, you'll have to wait." He fired back, mischievously "But I'll make you a deal. IF everything works out. If I come back from … this … I'll tell you. Every last detail."
She stamped her foot and crossed her arms over her breasts "Not fair Harry!"
"Gives you reason to hope I return." He joked darkly "Now … come on … I'm out of time and I still have one thing to do." He closed his eyes and concentrated.
As Ginny watched, the most magnificent jeweled ring appeared in his hand "Oh! Harry! It's gorgeous."
"Been in my Family since the first Harry Potter. Draco would probably piss himself if he knew it came from Salazar Slytherin himself." He said with a smirk "From now on, call yourself Ginevra Potter."
Mischief gleamed in her eyes, but Ginny knew this was a solemn occasion. She gave a formal bow and according to ancient formula said "Command me in all things, Sire."
"Only one order." He replied "If I don't come back, you must continue House Potter. A child must be raised on Potter lands. Boy, or girl, it doesn't matter. But my parents' portraits must be in their life."
Ginny clasped his hand, took the ring and said "As Head of House Potter I order you to find my predecessor's murderer. Bring him or her to justice."
"Bye!" he said, suddenly as a thumping came from the other side of the door.
Ginny looked, then turned back to see him throw himself through one of the dorm windows. It shattered and she screamed "HARRRRRIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEE E!" But he was fine because he had his broom. She gaped in amazement as he spun around dangerously and looped away.
x
The castle was so large that one could seem to fly off into the distance and still be in Hogwarts. This was true of Harry's flight. He'd just flown to the Hufflepuff dorms, which were laid out quite differently than he was used to. Here, boys rooms went down the hall directly opposite those of girls. Growing up in Gryffindor, this disturbed his sensibilities. Of course, what he was doing was even worse.
During their strolls around the castle, Susan had pointed out her window. So, Harry settled his broom right outside, magically pulled the window from its base and flew in. Susan's hair was strewn about, and when he pushed it from her face, the expression on her face tore at his heart. "I am so sorry, Sue." He whispered "But I promise they'll get theirs."
Susan rolled in her sleep and her arm rested across his legs.
"I don't think I ever understood." He said, stroking her cheek "Not until they were carrying you away from me. You're my whole world. I want to spend the next hundred years making you smile. I want your face to be the first thing I see in the morning and the last thing I see at night." He lifted her hand and kissed it. He took the letter from Amelia, added just three words of his own and tucked it under her. The doorknob twisted and Harry threw on his Invisibility Cloak.
In came Justin Finch-Fletchley "I almost finished him." The massive Hufflepuff said gleefully "But if I can't get you one way, there's always this."
"The snake in your bed wasn't enough?" Harry thought to himself. And there was no way he would let Susan get drugged. His wand was out, an image formed in his mind and he fired "Incarcerous!" A rope wound itself around Justin bending his body the wrong way, hog-tying his legs and arms behind his back, and finally jamming in his mouth. No sense waking Susan. Harry levitated the bundle thus made, and left him hanging from the hall ceiling.
Justin never saw his attacker, and because he could not yell for help, it might be hours that he would be left that way. He could barely breathe and his own weight kept pulling on his spine.
x
"Right. We got all we need?" Alastor Moody demanded gruffly "You treat her with kit gloves."
A Healer and two Mediwitches from St. Mungo's were completely terrified of the mangled, mean-tempered Auror.
The office of the Director of Magical Law Enforcement was a gory scene. Amelia's head was set on her desk like a trophy. Her body, while technically in one piece, had random chunks ripped away.
"The way I see it, sir," a senior Auror reported "These three were sent in as canon fodder. Them Dark Marks, they're pretty fresh. Doubt they're important. They drew the boss's fire, and well ... a pretty good transaction from You-Know-Who's point of view."
Moody gave the woman such a nasty look that she got out of the room without her dignity. He was torn away from contemplating his own fury by an argument. "- you the bloody Minister?" demanded an angry Harry Potter of a junior Auror, who despite being at least five years older stammered and stuttered.
"What're you doing here Potter?" asked Moody "You should be in school."
The-Boy-Who-Lived was no less forceful "You find out who did this yet?"
"This is a criminal investigation. Not a playground." Moody countered "If we need you, we'll call."
Harry dropped his bomb "I'm here to claim the Rite of Vengeance and you, Alastor Moody, you owe me. If I hadn't killed Crouch, you'd still be in his trunk like a plucked chicken. Now answer my questions. And, show me where it happened."
"A bit much, boy?" Moody asked, maliciously as Harry's stomach heaved at the scene.
The taunt drained Harry's emotions. "Have you even figured out a werewolf did this, yet?" he asked.
"How'd you figure that?" Moody wanted to know.
This wasn't something he was looking forward to. With great reluctance he sighed and said "Then you sure don't know who. You! Go find Remus Lupin. Tell him … tell him Harry Potter needs him."
"Boy seems to know what he's talking about." Moody admitted "Hop to it. Right, Potter would you care to explain how … just two seconds … you were able to figure this for a werewolf? I admit my suspicions leaned to that."
With that, Harry produced the phony Daily Prophet article given to him by Ginny. "This was delivered by Ministry owl to Susan. She went into such a fit, Madam Pomfrey had to pour Dreamless Sleep down her throat."
"Nicely done, kid." Moody complimented him "We'll see if we can find out who wrote this. I know Black's innocent. Clever forgery though. Alright, you bluffed that pretty well. And you're right, I do owe you one. Not a life-debt you know. You're in charge, but it's a stupid commander that doesn't listen to advice. And if you slack off I'll jam that wand down your throat."
Harry smiled, looking like the boy he still really was "You got it, Professor. And afterward, think you can hook me up?" and he tapped his own empty socket.
"You know I never really taught at Hogwarts." Moody pointed out.
Harry shrugged "If you're half as good as the fake one was, maybe you should."
"Greetings, Earl Potter. You summoned me?" Remus said formally, with a stiff bow.
Harry hardly ever acted the part of a noble with friends, but he'd done so at the Dursleys' and he did now as well "You're aware of Madam Bones' murder, I assume?" he asked.
"Yes." Remus replied "I know what she meant to you. I hope … what I mean to say is, you have my deepest sympathy."
Harry's only acknowledgement was a cold "Noted." Then he said "Now… to business… werewolves have heightened senses. I need to know, can you identify who? And just as important. Can you track them?"
"I see you paid attention to Severus' lecture on the subject." The man who'd been like James' brother offered in an attempt at friendliness.
Harry threw it back in his face "No Lupin. I studied werewolves so I'd know how to kill you if you ever attacked me again."
"If I help, do you think you might forgive-"
Harry shrugged carelessly "You mean as a quid pro quo? NO Lupin, but if you want something in return for your help, maybe you'd care to talk to my parents' paintings. Sirius… and Mum and Dad… have been arguing for that ever since I got Kiln Keep back."
"You've had them all this time!" the usually mild man growled.
Harry wasn't the least impressed "What makes you think you had the right?"
"Remus, why don't you see what you can learn?" Moody suggested "Potter, you've proved yourself sufficiently. You do not need to bait a werewolf. Not even one as relatively tame as that one."
When he returned, Remus had faint outlines of his werewolf form all about his body. His nose was a little extended, his hands hairier than normal. His eyes unnatural for a human. He was in a state of fury. He growled and drooled, one word came out intelligibly "Greyback!"
"The one who made him." Harry clarified "Recognize anyone else?"
His features slowly became full human again "Wormtail too. One or two others. An American I think, at least she smelled like one. What are they doing here?"
"Scouting, possibly." Moody offered "The rest of the world is probably wondering what's going on."
Harry shook his head "If they're with Death Eaters, they're the enemy. If one was involved in Amelia's murder, I'll kill him…or her."
"I really do not believe your parents would want you to become a murderer, Harry." Remus pointed out "Remember what you said to us when we were going to kill Peter?"
Harry looked down, guiltily. The others in the room assumed it would be his statement "And maybe that was a mistake." He declared "Maybe you should have torn him to pieces, so maybe Amelia wouldn't be. This is my fault."
"No, Harry" Remus offered "mercy is always good…never a mistake." He extended a comforting hand.
The young man slapped it away "I don't want any from you! And - hello Tonks."
"Are you coming down on him again?" she asked, sadly.
Sirius was quite pleased with the progress his cousin and godson had made. They were friends. But, like Hermione and Ron, there was one subject which neither could compromise on. And the similarity had little to do with getting Harry to change.
"Lupin is a big boy and can take care of himself." He told her.
She frowned "Everyone knows about Madam Bones. And … ummmm … Sirius needs to know. And Harry … I think he should hear it from you."
They were interrupted by a stretcher coming out of the Director's office.
"Stop." Harry ordered. The St. Mungo's team paused, then continued. This time his voice commanded obedience "HOLD!"
The Healer grabbed his hand when he pulled on the sheet. "NO!"
"What harm can it do?" asked Harry, rhetorically. He flinched at the sight of Madam Bones' detached head. But he forced himself to look. Impulsively, he pulled a hair from her and clenched it in his fist. History would later assume he made some silent oath in those seconds before he spoke again. "You treat her with the utmost respect. If I hear the slightest thing … no one will ever find your body … now you can go."
A highly concerned Minister of Magic burst on the scene "Harry, thank the stars I was right! Headmistress McGonagall just reported your disappearance. Please! Go back to Hogwarts at once. There is no need for you to be involved with this. I assure you the Auror Corps is going to be fully mobilized. We will find Amelia's killer."
"Not good enough Judge!" Harry sneered "The whole Auror Corps didn't do anything to stop me from going to Azkaban. Only one person did that."
Dumbledore drew himself up "With Amelia's death, Harry, I must act in your best interests. I will be petitioning the Wizengamot to appoint me as your Regent and Guardian. It would help greatly if you spoke in support."
"You've been outmaneuvered again Old Man." He said coldly "I already appointed a new Regent."
That was obviously a shock to the ancient wizard "Might I inquire as to whom?"
"Still a nosy, manipulative git just as soon as you get the chance, huh?" Harry observed.
Moody silently chuckled while magically sealing Amelia's private office. Only a new Director could open it, and only after the investigation was closed. Remus wanted to lecture the boy, but knew it would be a waste of breath.
"You did not answer my question." Dumbledore addressed Harry.
Who shrugged and nodded "You're right. I didn't. I think I'll leave that as a surprise. If you thought Madam Bones was tough, you'll be shocked that I found someone worse."
"Amelia … my boy … while a magnificent lady, had a somewhat narrow view of the world." Replied the Minister "You must help me serve the greater good. Now, I will speak with this new regent of yours. He will see the wisdom of yielding to me, and then, as I promised Amelia's loss will be dealt with."
Harry laughed and retorted sarcastically "Good luck, I'd pay more than a few Galleons to watch you and 'him' chat. As for Madam Bones nothing less than your Unbreakable Oath that you would immediately put every Auror in England on the case would get me to even consider going back to Hogwarts."
"You must realize that is an impossibility, Harry." Dumbledore lectured in his Teacher tone. "That would be asking me to strip the rest of the country of its keepers of law and order."
Harry snorted in disgust "Just proves how useless you really are. Now get out of my way! I have a job to do!"
"I shall do no such thing." Dumbledore said, slowly drawing his wand "And if necessary I will have you put away. I ask you, do not force me to."
Moody drew his wand as well. "I think that's enough."
"It is quite alright, Alastor." Dumbledore said confidently, holding up his other hand "I assure you, that despite my age I am quite capable of managing Harry. However if you can prepare a room. Secure, but comfortable."
Moody stomped his artificial foot and laughed "Boy's right! You are too old! I wasn't drawing on him. Lower your wand Albus!"
"Minister I regret to inform you, I can no longer perform my duties as Auror." Tonks coolly pointed hers as well.
Remus had been considering the matter, his girlfriend's declaration tipped the balance "I hereby resign from the Minister's Detail. Where she goes, I go."
"This is mutiny at least." Dumbledore pointed out "Treason. Do you really want that?"
Harry lowered his wand, turning to what he learned from Amelia "Minister Dumbledore" he said formally "House Potter hereby drafts Aurors Tonks, Moody, and … Lupin … into its private force. House Potter declares a state of siege. ANY interference with our lawful investigation will be met with lethal force AND a declaration of war against the offender's House.
"Have you any idea what you've done?" asked an appalled Dumbledore "People will be FORCED to-"
Harry cut him off "Get off their arses and act? About bloody time!"
"Harden their position." Dumbledore continued as if he had not spoken "Harry, if you continue on this course, some will side with Lord Voldemort."
Harry did not answer that "It's four to one. And even if you win, you lose. I meant what I said a minute ago. I probably wouldn't win against the whole Ministry, but how would it look to the rest of the people?"
"Throw your full support behind him, Albus!" Moody suggested gruffly "Announce a bounty for Ami's murderer. You do not need to order out the whole force. Just do what every other murder case would get."
Dumbledore closed his eyes in contemplation, then nodded with all the dignity he could muster. "Remus, Nymphadora, and Alastor, you are on detached duty for as long as is necessary. Full pay and benefits will, of course, be maintained. Please, if at all possible, mercy is a noble …the noblest… of guestures."
"Where to now, great leader?" asked Tonks, lightly.
It might have been amusing at another time. Harry gave her a look and replied "To tell Stubby Boardman his girlfriend is dead."
x
"Mmmmmmmmm!" Susan Bones sat up in bed and stretched luxuriously. It had to have been the best night of her life. Simultaneously, the weight of the truth slammed into her chest like a ton of bricks and she felt parchment crinkling under her rear. She felt oddly un-emotional considering her last close relative was dead. But then, her memory of the screaming fit came back. She sighed "Now, what's this?"
Dearest Susan
I want nothing more than to be with you right now. She was my Mum too. Well, except for when we were snogging. I kind of hope that my Mum… Lily that is… was a cross between Amelia and Mrs. Weasley. Someone that 'd baby you sometimes, just smother you with love. And then, turn around and she was teaching me all this stuff. How to fight, when not to.
You probably think I'm a rambling idiot. I don't blame you, it's true. This is worse than when I saw them kill Cedric. He was just this bloke I knew. It must be so much worse for you. I only knew her for a year. I learned something else. I saw it so clear when they were carrying you to the Hospital Wing. Looking back I can see I probably stopped you a dozen times with some stupid thing about Qudditch or whatever. And I bet a letter is the worst way to do it.
I LOVE YOU
In every way possible. Body and soul I heard on telly once.
We're both in danger if I don't do this. Amelia explained it all in this letter on the flip side. She also explains the other thing you might get mad at. And it is definitely NOT because I don't trust you. Some git will start spreading lies about me choosing Ginny. Don't listen.
I could write all day. But that'd get me busted. I promise I'll see you soon.
All my love, Always
Harry
PS: One of your friends isn't what you thought he was. Unless someone came by already, he's hanging by your door.
She did not really catch the last bit, as she blinked back tears "Bloody noble idiot!" she snapped. She stripped off her clothes, threw on her bathrobe and opened the door. There to be confronted by a startling sight. She squealed "Justin!"
Justin Finch-Fletchley had been hanging from the hall ceiling and suffering terribly. At this point he did not even know how long. Denied the ability to scream, he whimpered as his spine, shoulders and knees pulled and bent under his own weight.
"Wingardium Leviosa!" she cast, instantly as shock subsided. Susan lowered him to the ground as gently as she could and set about freeing him from his bonds. There, in his shirt pocket, was a pink colored potion in a vial. She demanded "What is this?"
He gave himself away, whimpering "Honest Suz! It wouldn't've hurt you! Love you! Always have! Potter's no good for you! Please help me! It hurts!"
"YOU UNBELIEVABLE BASTARD!" screamed Susan, kicking him three times in his exposed belly.
Hannah appeared in seconds. Her room was only a few feet away. She grabbed her red-headed friend just as she probably would have killed Justin. "SUZ! WHAT'RE YOU DOING!"
"I found this on this prick!" Susan snarled, holding up the potion.
Hannah didn't get it "You know I'm useless in Potions."
"This is just about the liquid form of the Imperius!" she struggled against her friend "Now let me go so I can kill him!"
Hannah pushed back "You don't think someone will notice? Besides how do you know?"
"That he was going to give it to me?" Susan asked, angrily. She paused then whispered the answer in Hannah's ear. It would be a bad idea for Harry's part in this to be known. It wasn't exactly a crucifixion, but a Roman centurion would have appreciated the gift for applying torment.
Hannah nodded in agreement at her friend's reasoning "Well, I probably have the cleanest record in school. Guess I can take the fall for this."
Justin Finch-Fletchley was expelled for possession of a dangerous potion. In light of the torture he suffered, no charges were filed. Susan, who argued against the charges, nevertheless snapped his wand. Hannah was deemed temporarily insane, everyone knew of her extreme loyalty (even beyond Hufflepuff norms) to her best friend. She did spend two weeks in St. Mungo's under the care of a top-notch Mind Healer. When she returned, she received a heroine's welcome and a bone-crushing hug from Susan.
x
Sirius Black was reading a copy of The Quibbler. Harry insisted that he do so, saying it was superior to The Prophet. Sirius teased his Godson about having a crush on "the little Ravenclaw" as he called Luna. To his great delight, Susan had gone right along with it. Harry's expression brightened just about any dark day. Today was not especially bad for the Azkaban escapee. Neither paper had any bad news. There was the reminder of the bounty on his head, its steep amount complimented his vanity. Both papers were three days old. He tossed them aside when Harry Potter entered his kitchen.
"Sirius!" exclaimed Harry, his voice cracked with emotion. He all but tackled his Godfather, hiding his face in the older wizard's shoulder.
Pounding his back, Sirius said "Great to see you, kiddo. But shouldn't you be in school?" The oddness of his guests settled in "Uhhh… not that …what I mean is that you don't exactly like Remus at the moment."
"That hasn't changed." Harry replied "I still hate the son of a bitch. But that isn't important right now. Sirius … I have some bad news for you. Stubby … he was getting pretty close to Amelia? Wasn't he?"
Harry's tone, the company he arrived with … Sirius was a smart guy … he suddenly looked stricken and fell onto his dining room table "NO!" he barely whispered "How?"
"Death Eaters. Greyback for one." Answered Remus.
Harry nodded in confirmation and added "Our friend the Rat for another. We're going after them."
"Count me in!" exclaimed Sirius, rubbing his hands together vigorously "So what's the plan?"
Moody shook his head "Don't look at me, Black, the kid's in charge."
"Harry?" he blinked in disbelief "You shouldn't even be out of school. Never mind going after killers and forget about leading the-"
Glaring at his Godfather, Harry shot back "I don't have time to repeat the argument I had with Dumbledore. Between the five of us, I figure we know everything we need about Amelia. And Sirius and Lupin should know enough about Pettigrew to guess where he might hide. Plus, if there's one sure way to track a werewolf, use another werewolf."
"Are you alright with this, Remus?" asked Sirius, his expression one of sympathy.
The werewolf shrugged "It's something I can do. Maybe I can never make up for what I did. But, in this, I even have a selfish reason. Hunting Greyback."
"Remus, no one's perfect. And some people could bend a little." Tonks clutched his arm affectionately.
Harry's eyes narrowed "With support like this, who needs Death Eaters? Sirius, you shouldn't really go."
"Sirius won't be." He countered "Stubby, or depending on the situation, Snuffles will. Just let me get some bottled Stubby."
Harry still looked worried "Shouldn't you … I dunno … be crying or something?"
"What about you?" Sirius argued "Ami was like a second mother. Don't YOU miss her?"
Harry nodded "Of course I do. But she warned never show weakness. Those Skrewts of the Wizengamot would tear me to pieces. I'll mourn when there's time and in private."
"Where we going first, Boss? asked Moody.
Harry smiled unpleasantly and answered "Who would you least suspect of being a spy for House Potter?"
"I must warn you, Potter, if you plan a chat with the Dark Lord we're woefully understaffed." Moody quipped, darkly.
Harry laughed, greatly amused "Now wouldn't that be a real pisser! Maybe the #2 least likely. Mad-Eye do you happen to know who resides at 615 George Square, London, East Side?"
"Not the richest neighborhood by a longshot." Moody commented "You been hanging with riff-raff, Potter?"
Harry shrugged "Yep, the lowest of the low. There's an empty lot around the corner. We can apparate there."
"I'll guard the front when we get there." Said Moody "Remus and Tonks can go through the house and secure the rear. Black, dog form with Potter."
Harry nodded "Friendly version please. They've got a couple little kids."
"Can't I bite him once?" asked Sirius "Just a few fingers or toes maybe."
Harry threw a shot at Remus by suggesting "If you're real good you can bite his knee." He delighted as Remus stiffened.
x
"My Lord Potter." Mrs. Diggory greeted them at the door "Is it really wise to come so openly? Secrecy has always been the key-"
Harry interrupted bluntly "Things have changed…greatly… Jessica. May we come in?" Having asked, he entered without waiting for actual permission. Moody pulled the door shut, remaining outside and the couple quickly inspected the small, first floor apartment. Then took up a post in the small back yard.
"Hi! Who're you?" a small voice asked, and tugged on his pant legs.
He looked down and grinned. Only the coldest heart would be unaffected by that sweet little smile "My name is Harry Potter."
"This is the man that's going to help you go to school when the time comes." Said Mrs. Diggory. It was remarkable how her face could smile, but not her eyes.
The girl extended her arms upward, gesturing to be picked up "Thank you Mr. Potter" she said, hugging his head.
"I'll get Amos." Mrs. Diggory offered as she reached for her daughter "I do not expect he'll be pleased to see you holding Stacey. Come here hun."
Harry however seemed to have a permanent attachment in the small girl. Nor did he make an effort to separate himself.
"Arf! Arf!" came from Sirius' Animagus form.
Blond hair spun around and a delighted squeal of "Doggie!" came from the girl.
"She'll be safe, Jessica." Harry addressed "I don't hurt kids. And Snuffles only looks tough. He's just a big pussycat."
Not eager for a crying child, the mother relented. Harry and Sirius performed all the dog tricks for the little girl. She was giggling madly when the parents and her twin appeared. Melissa and Stacey are identical twins, but telling them apart wasn't difficult. While Stacey's blond hair had dark highlights, Melissa's was tinged with red. Half asleep over her father's equally drowsy face, it looked almost orange.
"Just because you blackmailed me, Potter, does not mean you have the right to enter my home." Amos complained bitterly "Such as it is."
Both girls ignored the adult talk in favor of fascination with the canine. Stacey had his head in her lap, lightly tugging on his ears. She giggled every time the rough tongue licked her leg. Melissa had developed an immediate obsession with the completely shaggy tail, she was alternately tugging and getting swatted in the face by it.
"We've not had an easy year, My Lord." Mrs. Diggory informed him "My husband was demoted at the Ministry and it is hard to make ends meet."
Harry had quite accurately assessed the situation as soon as he saw his former tormentor. "Looks to me as though he'd do better at work … and keep more money if he stayed off the Firewhiskey." He pointed out, bluntly.
"You made me what I am, Potter." Amos retorted in a soft (for the sake of his children) but angry voice.
Sirius was operating on two levels, allowing his canine form to ignore the talk and just play with the two girls. But his human intellect struggled with the urge to rip Amos Diggory to shreds.
"You got off light. And it's not my problem." Harry countered "And you made these problems for yourself. You won't have heard yet, Amelia Bones is dead. Victim of a werewolf attack. In her office. On a night not a full moon."
Amos shrugged uncaringly, while Jessica said "She was a friend before."
"So far, we know two of them." He continued, ignoring both reactions "There were others we haven't … yet. What do you two know?"
Jessica sighed "Just after New Years it happened. I was buying groceries, in a Muggle store. They're cheaper you know. A man came up to me. Walked around while I finished shopping, paid for my purchase, and carried my bags to the apparition point. He knew Amos was now an appointments clerk."
"Was it either of these two?" asked Harry, displaying photos of both Pettigrew and Greyback.
She shook her head "No. He was an Indian. And there's more, a week later it happened again. Only this time it was a girl about your age. She could be at Hogwarts… collected the scroll Amos gave me with Amelia's schedule for the next month. We told her all this just a couple days ago."
"Not soon enough, obviously." Harry grumbled. His musings were interrupted by Amos throwing himself across the table in an assault. It was extremely sloppy and he simply sidestepped it. The man crumpled on the floor unconscious. "I see nothing's really changed."
The two girls ran over to their father and made futile efforts to pull him up. "Daddy fall down again." Stacey commented.
To which Melissa replied "Daddy always falling down. Mummy help."
"I'm going to transfer 500 Galleons to your Gringotts account." Harry said "Use it to get him help. He needs to be supporting his family. Not falling all over himself."
Jessica bowed before him and said "You are generous, My Lord. I wish our families could be friends."
"Not me, not with him. Never." Replied Harry. "It was Susan that kept him out of Azkaban. Some of my friends want him dead. And about now I agree. You seem alright. And then I think of them growing up without a father and I can't do it. You've given me useful information. We'll be going. C'mon Snuffles! Say goodbye!"
Melissa commanded "Gimme paw!" and giggled when the dog obeyed.
"Can't Snuffy stay? Please Mr. Potter." Stacey pleaded.
Harry knelt to her level and whispered "Snuffles is helping me with something very important. So he has to come with me. But, one day, if your Mum says it's OK we'll visit again."
"I'll have to tell them about this visit. To keep it balanced, of course." Amos Diggory said as he sat up, apparently unharmed "And I bet him going around with an Animagus will be worth something. I can always tell Potter they forced it out of us."
x
The group left the Diggory residence well pleased with the intelligence. And unaware of the betrayal.
"Mad-Eye. I think you'll be the best one to get a copy of that appointment book." Harry said "We need to know all that, too."
The gnarled Auror whacked him on the shoulder with his staff and grumbled "And I'll know more about what's in it than a wet-behind-the ears boy."
"What's next, Harry?" asked 'Stubby Boardman'
Thinking, Harry turned to Remus and asked "Just how far can werewolves smell each other?"
"That's a bit complicated." He replied "And we're at a disadvantage there. A senior wolf can smell one of his cubs before a cub will smell the senior. That's one of the reasons I never went after Greyback before. We're somewhat like vampires, in that as we age we get more powerful and Greyback was turned over a hundred years ago. We don't however, live forever. Few live past 400."
Harry suggested "We could try apparating about. We could get lucky."
"Not more than a few times a day." Said Moody "And the big problem is we'd have to use a search pattern and then we risk getting ourselves ambushed. And we definitely can't have Remus tire himself if we're facing another werewolf."
Thus, the group knew who they were hunting. Harry was mulling over who the 'girl at Hogwarts' Jessica Diggory mentioned might be. Remus and Sirius considered the likely spots their erstwhile friend might choose to hide. Where to go was a problem. A few places they hit were identified by Remus "He's been here in the last month or so."