Chapter 37 Voldemort's search, Ginny's breaking, the elves explain, Potterwatch and the searches
30th December 1997, near Les Cornettes de Bise, French Alps
Voldemort has been walking through the alps while casting magic to find a trace of magic as he suspected that the prison from Grindelwald was charmed to not be seen from far away and certainly not by muggles. He cast a lot of revealing spells but it was becoming harder and harder as he still suffered from the pain Harry did to him somehow. He barely made it to the Les Cronettes de Bise mountain near the French border with Switzerland.
To prevent him from becoming too tired again he started to look for signs of magic as that cost less power and as it was more subtle but also less accurate to know which way to go if you found a trace of magic unless it was in a cave-like the Salazar Slytherin's locket is to his knowledge.
He was certain that Grindelwald wasn't in France. He thought 'he was as he was alive during the great war (first world war) and even fought kind of for Germany. He could have a grudge against France so the worst place to be in prison is in France' but he was wrong although he would never admit it.
He starts to go to the Swiss- Italian border with the first stop the mountain and village of Les Diablerets. If he wasn't there he would go to the Matterhorn before going to the Weisshorngruppe which would give him a great sightline in Switzerland but also most of the western (and middle) of the Italian alps.
31st December 1997, Swiss Alps
Voldemort felt something change but he didn't feel that he was called back. He didn't know what has happened as he never felt it before. He tried to find it in himself but he didn't see something was wrong with him besides still not fully recovered.
As nothing was wrong with him he decided he didn't care what has happened and continued to look for a prison.
3rd January 1998, Swiss Alps
Voldemort has been searching the Italian alps for the last few days and found nothing, not that he expected it. He was back in the Swiss Alps. It was slow going in the Italian and French Alps and even slower here. The great high distance, high points, low points with not fully recovered from whatever Harry did to him it was making him very angry so angry he killed every traveller and mountain climber he saw which didn't help his recovery.
He was nearing Pizzo d'Andolla. It was quite a climb. When he reached the 'top' and saw nothing out of order he left the top. He went through northern Italy to get to his next point. Right before nightfall, he reached the mountain Monte Leone on the Swiss/ Italian border. He went to a cave to spend the night as he has been searching for days without rest.
6th January 1998, climbing Wildspitze, Austrian Alps
Voldemort finally reached the Austrian Alps. He was almost 100% certain that Grindelwald was here. Yesterday he found a magical trace that was dark and some 'old' magic at least as old as the time Grindelwald was in power with Hitler being the muggle leader of Germany.
He knew he was close. When he finally reached the top of the Wildspitze the sun was already setting and he knew that he needed to find a place to stay for the night. He tried to apparate to the base of the mountain. He barely managed as he had some slashes as he had that if he went further he would have splinched. He was mostly recovered from Harry but he was tired as he hasn't has slept since the 3rd and the mountains in Switzerland and Austria were much harder to climb than the Alps in the other land although Italy also wasn't easy but easier than Switzerland and Austria.
He was certain that the prison should be near Großglockner and if he was lucky be even visible to Großglockner. Großglockner is the largest mountain in Austria. He saw the mountain when he was on the top of the Wildspitze so he knew where to go but he thought it would take at least a day maybe two. He decided when it was morning he would have his magic again and try to close as quickly as he could as he wants to find the last clue and rumoured owner of the Elder Wand and crush Harry when he lures Harry with that Lovegood pureblood bitch or the blood traitor Weasley. He was sure if he used both that Harry would surely come but he needed to let it leak without being too obvious.
'The Daily Prophet was too obvious and there was almost no chance Potter or his mudblood whore have a subscription or go to Diagon Alley to buy one' Voldemort thought.
Voldemort let the Daily Prophet only sell in Diagon Alley and subscription to Hogwarts and his supporters nowhere else, but he knew many elves were sent to get or buy one for other places and certainly not his supporters but he made that more expensive to get a steady flow of money.
6th January 1998, Order Safe House, Northern Wales
Every day Ginny was closer to lashing out almost every day especially as she felt the pain from Harry again yesterday but she felt it was mentally not physically. She was very close to calling Dobby so she could go to Harry to comfort him however he wanted or needed.
Arthur was trying to let Molly see that Harry was doing what he could. Arthur really believed that but he does want to know what Harry, Hermione and until shortly Ron were doing. He knew Harry broke up with Ginny to protect her but he was very happy that they still love each other and even became soulbonded which is the best you can hope for even with all the other girls. Ginny is happy and that is the most important to Arthur.
He could ask Ron what they were doing but Ron barely talked. He came down to eat before going upstairs or he was still eating when he was done and Arthur left the table and kitchen, most of the whole family was done and left while Ron was still eating almost every time was his second or even third plate made by Molly if not more.
Ginny has felt Harry die as much as it hurt and even though the other girls in her mind said that he was okay although they were gone after that she needed to see Harry, to be sure he was alright. She was happy that according to the other girls' Harry stopped the assassin from hurting anyone except himself. 'Noble git' Ginny thought.
Ginny hoped to know what was happening in Hogwarts, but she knew from Charlie that owls could not find this place as Bill placed a ward against that. She told Neville that there was a small chance that she could get an owl so he shouldn't send anything to her. She did ask if he could keep sending letters to the Patils, Susan or Hannah. The Patils managed to escape Hogwarts and told Neville they would try to find Susan and Hannah. They asked him to send them letters if he got important information but also want to know how Hogwarts and if others wanted or needed to escape they would help. Ginny knew that the Patils found Susan and Hannah shortly after they had escaped.
It looked like their escape was the last time to leave Hogwarts as when it was known they were gone the Dementors' presence was tripled if not quadrupled to prevent other students from escaping. Ginny knew that with that amount of Dementors you needed a lot of people to be able to cast a Patronus. Neville was close but to stand a chance they needed at least Harry and if possible Hermione with her new Patronus form full of power beside others even if they had a normal powered Patronus.
7th January 1998, Order safe house, Northern Wales
Ginny still used Harry's shirt to try to keep her from lashing out. Harry's scent always managed to calm her down and feel loved although now it only calmed her down as she didn't feel Harry's arms or felt and heard his heartbeat not even mentioning Harry's muscles on his chest when he holds her and hugged her.
She put Harry's Quidditch shirt on her bed near her pillow before she made up her bed. She left Harry's shirt there as she hoped it would make her pillow and bed smell like Harry and it did a bit although ever since she felt Harry die she slept in his shirt. Harry survived but she felt closer to him with his shirt on. She has slept in today and she faintly felt Harry be content but also happy. Ginny hoped this continue as long as possible so Harry wouldn't be hurt.
She hoped she could soon go the Harry but she promised her father to stay here as long as possible. She wished she didn't or at least knew that Ron and her mother didn't let up about badmouthing Harry and sometimes even Hermione the last few days. Ron only smiled or was eating if you call it that and never defended Hermione.
Ginny thought 'I tried to defend Harry and after that Hermione what Ron at least should do as his best mate and girlfriend, but Ron listen to everything that our mother said, agreed with our mother and even badmouthed his own girlfriend beside his so-called best mate. It was worse what he sometimes called them, I also wonder why my brothers or my future sisters-in-law didn't defend Harry or Hermione.'
She took a deep breath before taking a shower and getting ready for a whole day of her brother and her mother badmouthing her husband and her ….. sister-wife. The badmouthing had slowly gotten worse and worse. She knew if that continues it wouldn't take long before she lashes out and will leave. Without Crookshanks or especially Harry she knew she would sooner rather than later curse Ron and her mother one way or the other. What they didn't know is that she doesn't have the trace anymore because of the soulbond marriage.
7th January 1998, living room, Potter Manor
Everybody was just done with breakfast when Harry reminded Hermione while heavily blushing that if she wants she can talk to all the elves and try to understand why they like to work here. Hermione wondered if she really still wanted to. If she learned anything the last week was that the elves loved to work hard and the previous Potter's like Harry treated the elves really well probably even better than Hogwarts, but she doesn't really know how well the Hogwarts elves are treated as she rarely went to the kitchen as most elves didn't like her as she wanted to involuntarily free them.
Hermione fairly quickly decided to talk to the elves as she needs to learn more from their perspective. The elves said Harry's mother was also appalled at first but they managed to let her understand. She never would say it out loud but she thought she was a bit like Harry's mother if she must believe Remus and Sirius's story when she was at Grimmauld Place before her fifth year. She never told anyone but Remus and Sirius told her multiple times she looks a lot like Lily not with her looks but with her mind.
She takes a seat inside the living room. Harry was in his office while most of the others were in the library. She asks if she could be alone but offered the muggleborns to be with her if they wanted. Katie wanted to but said she would come in a few minutes if she really wants. Hermione sighed and calls Tarpy.
Tarpy pops in and asks "what can Tarpy do for Lady Hermione?"
Hermione smiles and asks "Tarpy can you get all the elves here even Dobby and Kreacher?"
Tarpy bows before he says "yes Lady Hermione."
Less than 5 minutes later all the elves except Dobby and Kreacher are present. Hermione waits a few minutes when finally Kreacher and Dobby pop in. Hermione has learned all the names of the elves and see them before. She recognizes who was who and what is very important to her. If she didn't she thinks she would disrespect them and see them as a lesser beings than she didn't think they are.
Kreacher bows before saying "Kreacher is sorry Lady He'mione. Kreacher and Dobby were searching for Leanne Porter for Lady Katie."
Hermione says "thank you Kreacher and Dobby. I hope that the search is going well and I didn't ask for you or any of you away at an important moment."
Kreacher and Dobby say "no Lady Hermione. Dobby/ Kreacher is close but it wasn't important at the moment."
All the elves except Mipsy say "no Lady Hermione."
Hermione sees the face of Mipsy looking with disbelief towards Kreacher and Dobby. Hermione decided to ask. Hermione asks "Mipsy is something wrong?"
Mipsy shakenly points at Dobby and says "Lady Hermione Dobby is Dobby. Dobby is Mipsy's son."
Hermione asks "Dobby is that true?"
Dobby nods and says "yes Lady Hermione, but if Lady Hermione and Master Harry won't want that Dobby will not accept, Dobby wouldn't even….."
Hermione interrupts Dobby and says "no Dobby. I can tell you we want the exact opposite. Mipsy and Dobby take the rest of the day off to get reacquainted again."
Hermione looks at Mipsy and asks "do you want that Mipsy? Do you want to meet Dobby again?"
Mipsy nods with theirs in her eyes, but after she was done nodding she looks to the ground.
Hermione smiles before saying "I am happy for both of you. Like I said take the day off at least till dinner and after that, you can work if you want or go back to talking."
Dobby says "but Lady Hermione Dobby wants to work."
Hermione smiles and says "you can Dobby, but you haven't seen Mipsy in many years am I right?"
Dobby nods and says "not anymore when Dobby went to bad masters when bad young former master Draco was born."
Hermione gasps a bit as if that was 17 years ago if not more. She saw Dobby running towards the wall and says "stop immediately Dobby."
Just inches and seconds before Dobby would hit the wall Dobby stops immediately.
Hermione says "Dobby you don't need to punish yourself. We don't like the Malfoy's so we don't mind if you talk bad about them. Narcissa is family so that is could be a problem."
Dobby says "Miss Narcissa is Black. Dobby likes Miss Narcissa."
Hermione says "that is great now like I said go take the rest of the day off. Harry would want that I just know it."
Dobby nods as did Mipsy before they both pop out. Hermione asks the other elves "is there anything more I need to know about?"
Everybody shook their heads except Kreacher and Wissy. Dissey notices and looks confused at her mother. Hermione also notices and thought 'seriously Harry even your elves aren't without trouble or unexpected things.'
Hermione hears in her mind 'sorry 'Mione.'
Hermione doesn't see it but she knew Harry has a sly smile on his face. She thought back 'get that smile off your face Harry, you prat.'
Hermione immediately focuses on the elves and asks "what is it Kreacher? Or can you tell me Wissy?"
Before they could answer a couple of people walk into the living room not only from the entrance but also in the painting. Hermione looks up and sees Katie, her parents, Penelope and Fay but also Megan, Sally-Ann, Lisa and the Patil twins. Hermione looks confused, but before she could ask why they are here Katie says "Hermione have you already asked?"
Hermione shakes her head before asking "I have not asked that although I did ask other questions, Katie I understand you are here but why are the others not that I mind?"
Katie says "well I am here as Harry's wife and muggleborn so are Fay and Penelope as they are muggleborns, not Harry's wife. Your parents also wanted to come to see what the elves will say. I also think they need to be convinced like you also at least Penelope. I accept that when they said they want to work I don't need a reason Fay is the same. Megan, Sally-Ann, Lisa and the Patil twins wanted to come but I don't know why they didn't say it."
Hermione looks at Megan, Sally-Ann, Lisa and the Patil twins. Hermione didn't know that they have talked to each other the wives didn't know. Lisa wasn't sure to be here as she likes Harry but doesn't love him while Megan, Sally-Ann and the Patil twins seriously hinted that they do not mention it when Fleur asked them all of them remained seated although she saw Sally-Ann wasn't sure. Well, not all three, the Patils stood up but quickly sat down again.
Parvati says "Padma and I also want to know why house-elves want to work and not be free. We have family members in India that have elves but we were not allowed to talk to them unless it was to give an order. They said if we talked with the elves we would lose our cast and makes us to the lowest cast. Our parents aren't like that as our father is also our head of house in England and less traditional about the house-elves. We are still seen as foreigners while we are born in England just like our parents and our grandparents from our father's side although their parents were from India."
Padma continues "we don't have house-elves, not that we are very rich but we have a comfortable life. We could have a house-elf but according to father, there was something that prevents our house and other 'foreign' houses to get one. Father didn't explain and I looked at the books but didn't find out why."
Hermione thought probably the Slytherin purebloods like Malfoy and bigot pureblood (and some traditional half-bloods) houses are behind it. She thought 'no not all pureblood from Slytherin are bad. Daphne, Tracey and Astoria are very nice and the Carrow twins look nice enough although they only talk with Astoria, Daphne and Tracey although Tracey is a half-blood.'
She heard very faintly Astoria saying 'thank you, Hermione, you are very nice too.'
Nobody says anything as they all saw Hermione with a faraway look and if Harry wasn't close it means that she was thinking and wouldn't hear anything they said. It reminded them of when Hermione's mother tried to get her attention by gently shaking her and it didn't even work.
Hermione came back real quick and says "well Padma we can find out later but I asked Kreacher and Wissy a question."
Suddenly a voice is heard from the painting. Dorea had walked in with Charlus standing in a loving embrace. Charlus behind Dorea and her arms around her.
Dorea says "Charlus stop for a minute."
Charlus looks at her and then into the room. He saw the girls and he gave a smile that looks a lot like Harry, but the girls didn't feel the same when they look at Charlus's smile. When Harry smiles they all get a very strong feeling (besides Lisa) and mostly blush when Harry looks at them during the smile or shot them one. Charlus says "Sorry there girls I didn't see you there."
Dorea says "of course, you didn't, kissing me in my neck while I tried you to stop. Is it a Potter trait as your father and James were the same as is Harry?"
Hermione blushed as Harry did it with her what Charlus did to Dorea and Dorea saw Harry do the same as most of the Potters apparently. Dorea gave her a wink that make Hermione blush even harder.
Dorea says "I can answer your question, Hermione. I 'got' Wissy when I married Charlus, but I didn't know she was pregnant until a few months into the marriage. It would have been rude to send her back as it would like that she isn't a good elf. If I would do that she would have been killed or punished enough that she would lose the child. When the child was born I asked her who the father was as I know she wasn't allowed to get pregnant. I think you know where I go with this."
Hermione asks immediately "Wissy is Kreacher the father of Dissey?"
Wissy nodded. Kreacher looks shocked. He never thought he would get a child. Hermione asks "why were they split up?"
Dorea says "Kreacher was given to my niece and nephew. The parents from Sirius when they married and until then Kreacher served my oldest brother Pollux. He gave Kreacher to his oldest daughter Walburga Black the mother of Sirius as he approved of the marriage as both were Blacks. Walburga and Orion were close cousins although Orion wasn't that pleased, but he was young and listened to his father and head of house Lord Black as we are trained from a young age to do."
Hermione asks "Kreacher and Wissy would you like to talk?"
Wissy nods enthusiastically while Kreacher says "Kreacher do as Lady He'mione commands."
Hermione asks "Tarpy if you give an answer to my questions or tell me what I want to know is it the same for all the elves here?"
Tarpy nods slowly and says "Tarpy think so Mistress. Tarpy and the elves all love to work here for the same reasons and also why we want to work here."
Hermione smiles and says "that is great. Kreacher and Wissy please go talk and figure out what will be happening between you. Dissey normally I would tell you to go too but before you will accompany them they need to figure it out first, okay?"
Dissey was a bit disappointed, but understand Hermione as Kreacher didn't know she existed. Dissey hoped she could talk to her father and he would like her as his daughter. She was afraid for a second that her mother or father would be sent away, but she immediately remembers Dorea and Lily's words. Dorea wouldn't send her away and Lily would have been very mad with James and James would have been in very deep trouble with Lily. James told Lily sincerely what most pureblood families do with new house-elves although Potter's (like some others do not or come up with a nicer plan than the other purebloods do like when the Rosier's gave the Malfoy's Dobby and took him away from her mother after he was probably barely old enough, just days before James found her).
Hermione says "Kreacher and Wissy you two can also take the day off to figure this out. Wissy when you and Kreacher have figured it out and Kreacher wants to meet Dissey you can get her but at least let one of us know, but don't tell Harry I will tell him, okay?"
Wissy says "yes Lady Hermione."
Wissy grabs Kreacher's hand and before Kreacher could act she pops out with him. When they pop out Hermione gave a deep sigh. This will become a problem if any of the two talks go wrong, not only that but this will also prolong the search for Leanne. Katie didn't tell Hermione but she was getting more nervous every second she didn't was found especially about what would have happened if Harry didn't save them could happen to her.
Hermione gathers her thoughts again to start what she wants to do. However, before she begins everybody except Harry, Luna, Mr. Olivander, Mr. Fortescue and Mr. Lovegood enter the living room.
Hermione asks "Tolney and Tolly could you maybe get some tea and butterbeer for everyone?"
Tolney and Tolly nod before they pop out. Almost three minutes later they returned with one tray full of butterbeer and one tray with a big teapot and enough cups for everyone in the room.
Hermione smiles and says "thank you Tolney and Tolly. Now we should better get started.
Hermione starts "before I ask I want to say that nothing you will say will be wrong I want your honest thoughts and that Harry will also not punish you or anything else bad. We will make sure of it, but as we all know Harry I know he will never punish you as like James and Lily if you think you did something wrong just come and talk to one of us."
"Next is I see you all happily work so I am only interested in why and not mad that you are forced to do it. And lastly, you can do it if you want but you must understand that sometimes we also want to do things to make your work easier or just that we want to do it, but if you want to do it most of the time we won't mind but like I said we would sometimes make our own food when I learn to cook at least or do the dishes. Other times clean up a room or something like that."
Hermione like the others saw the ears drop from the elves. Hermione immediately says "you all do very good work but sometimes we just need to do things on our own and get our hands dirty so to speak."
The ears of the elves perked a bit up even if they weren't like when the elves were happy. Hermione decided that she could better get to the point she wanted to talk to them.
Hermione says "I want to ask you a question. Harry said that Lily was also mad and you talked to her to let her see that you want to work here. Can you tell me what you told her?"
Tarpy nods and says "yes Lady Hermione. Master James asked us to talk to Lady Lily as Lady Lily was mad at Master James about Tarpy and the other elves. Lady Lilly did know about the house-elves but Lady Lily didn't know why the house-elves work for wizarding families and not for muggleborns like Lady Lily was as is Lady Hermione and Lady Katie and family friends like Miss Penelope, Miss Fay but also Lady Hermione's parents Miss Emma and Mister Daniel as muggles. Lady Lily wouldn't want the elves to work for no one as slaves but thought that muggles would be much nicer to house-elves."
Tarpy continued "house-elves need to work for a magical family as house-elves feed on the witches or wizard's magic. House-elves can also live on the magic from a house with magic as the houses where wizards and witches live will gather magic over generations. That is why most house-elves without Master and family go to Hogwarts as Hogwarts has centuries of magic in the castle."
"House-elves go to Hogwarts as house-elves life from the magic. Most witches and wizards don't notice that house-elves feed on them. Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Kreacher, Dobby and Tarby look younger as Master Harry bonds Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Kreacher, Dobby and Tarby to Master Harry."
"Master Harry is very strong and it made Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Kreacher, Dobby and Tarby look younger and stronger. The stronger the magic the stronger the elves are and how much longer the elves live."
"Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy and Tarby like to work for the most ancient and most noble house of Potter as Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy and Tarby love working here and are treated good very well."
"Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy and Tarby doesn't get paid, but Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy and Tarby get the food, nice clothes Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy and Tarby make themselves with wool given by House Potter. Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy and Tarby also can live in the manor with their own rooms and living room."
"Master and Ladies are allowed to enter the rooms and living room for the elves but not do much. Master Charlus and Lady Dorea were there when Wissy and later Tolney gave birth. Previous Masters and Ladies allowed Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy and Tarby to be in the living room where Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Wissy and Tarby are right now and if they wanted to eat in the kitchen but Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Tarby, Kreacher and Dobby have a kitchen with the servant quarters. The servant quarters are very beautiful and luxurious for Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Tarby, Kreacher and Dobby."
"Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Tarby, Kreacher and Dobby could work for Miss Emma and Mister Daniel as Lady Hermione is a witch. Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Tarby, Kreacher and Dobby can work for a full muggles household as long as they bonded to a witch or wizard outside of the muggle household. If elves run out of magic they will die. Most elves without a family to serve and without a bond live two years, strong ones three years even if they work at Hogwarts. That Dobby still live is probably because of the close bond with Master Harry before really bonding."
Hermione looks shocked not about what the elves told them, no more about everything she didn't know. She suddenly asks "what about the elves without a bond. Will they come when you call for the elf?"
Tarby speaks up and says "the elf while come if the elf wants, but most elves find themselves unworthy and will not come when called by a witch or wizard. Elves cannot kill themselves and will slowly waste away if they aren't bonded anymore. The bond keeps the elves alive. Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Tarby and Dobby serve House Potter as Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Tarby and Dobby like it here, have a very nice Masters and Ladies and Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Tarby and Dobby live very nice and are better treated than heard about other Houses. Kreacher like Master Harry and therefore likes to serve House Black beside House Potter. Tarby hopes Lady Hermione and Lady Katie understand and don't request or force Master Harry to free Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Dissey, Wissey, Mipsy, Tarby, Kreacher and Dobby."
Hermione doesn't even need to listen to the others or look at her parents and the girls. She says "Tarby and the others if you really like it here and don't mind the work I will not stop you on one condition."
All the elves bow waiting for the condition. When Hermione hasn't said anything for a couple of minutes Tarpy looks up and asks "what is the condition Lady Hermione Tarpy, Tolney, Tolly, Wissey, and Tarby are waiting. Please don't punish Tarpy for wanting an answer."
Hermione smiles and says "Tarpy I will not punish you. You asked for it and I will give you but actually, there are three conditions. The first one is the one we already told you many times if you think you did something bad talk to us and don't punish yourself even if you think you need to do it, do not."
"The second condition is you are tired or hurt let us know. If you need to rest or be healed do so. We won't think you are a bad elf if you need it. We can take care of ourselves if any of you are tired or need to be healed. This goes especially for Tolney, Tolly, Wissey but also Dissey and Mipsy if they get pregnant if THEY want. You don't need our permission if you want a child you can try to get one. We want to know if you get pregnant so you and we don't endanger the child."
"The third and last condition looks like the second but if you are busy and are unable to do something else just tell us. If we call for you when you are busy pop in and let us know before returning. If you don't have time to pop in try to let us know any other way and we encourage other elves to help each other. We will also help you if you want or need it. We won't be mad or think you are a bad elf. We all would love to help you. You are all good elves so are Dobby, Mipsy, Kreacher and Dissey. We all think so."
The elves were with teary eyes. They weren't sad they were filled with happiness. They were afraid Lady Hermione would demand Master Harry let to let them go as she was even madder the first time she saw them than Lady Lily although Lady Hermione didn't tell Master Harry what to do while Lady Lily did tell Master James.
Hermione says to no one in particular "now I need to tell Harry and Luna but also the other elves."
Hermione hears 'you don't need to Hermione I heard everything.'
This is followed by a second voice 'me too Hermione' before the voice disappears obviously closing her shield as Luna was still in the hospital wing for her father.
Hermione says "okay Harry and Luna heard everything but the other elves did not, not mentioning Ginny."
Tarpy says "Lady Hermione Tarpy, Tarby and Wissey could tell Dissey, Kreacher, Mipsy and Dobby if Lady Hermione wants to."
Hermione smiles and says "only if you want to otherwise I will tell them the same."
Tarpy bows and says "please let Tarpy tell Dissey, Kreacher, Mipsy and Dobby."
Hermione says "only if you are sure Tarpy?"
Tarpy nods enthusiastically Hermione agrees but said that he needed to wait until Dissey and Kreacher but also Mipsy and Dobby are done talking with each other and if Kreacher wanted to talk to Wissey, Wissey can tell Kreacher if she wants.
7th January 1998, Living Room, Potter Manor
It was after dinner. After the talk, Hermione decided to postpone the planning as the elves gave her (and the other girls) a lot to process. Everybody was in the living room besides Mr. Ollivander, Mr. Fortescue and Mr. Lovegood. Andi did have good news though. Because of the good care of Luna, the goblins and her work Mr. Ollivander and Mr. Fortescue were improving faster than expected and if everything went as it was now they could leave the hospital wing in a few days although they still needed enough rest. Not only that but Mr. Ollivander was already testing his hand movement to make new wands.
Mr. Lovegood was also recovering but as Andi expected the dark curse prevent the wound from closing. She has tried all magical means but it didn't work. She asked Luna and Mr. Lovegood to use a muggle way but they both declined not that they thought it wouldn't work or be painful but Mr. Lovegood and Luna were okay with waiting until the curse effects fade, wounds can be closed and the skin regrow.
Everybody else was in the living room on Kingsley and Remus's insistence. Harry asked why when they asked but they said it was a surprise. Harry started to dislike surprise although his girls and wives are sure it is a happy one. Harry sat in a very comfy chair but prevent anyway from sitting on his lap by having the Sword of Gryffindor in his hand and examining it not that it was needed.
Kingsley had his wand in his hand and waited on somebody it seems like. Remus came in and he was holding a radio that used to be listening to the Wizarding Wireless Network.
Harry and Hermione think back to the last time they listened to the Wizarding Wireless Network. It was late at night a couple of days after Ron left and Harry 'danced' with Hermione to make her feel better. Hermione's smile became very wide as even though it was barely dancing it was one of her happiest moments since the war started even before the ministry of magic admitted Tom's return and before she became Lady Potter as it showed how much Harry cared about her even though she knows he did and still does.
Remus put it on the table in the middle of the room. Remus says "I think many wonders why I went to get a radio that is used for listening to the Wizarding Wireless Network?"
Everybody nodded and Daphne says "Indeed Remus. The Wizarding Wireless Network is just like the Daily Prophet under the control of the ministry that is under the control of Tom."
Remus turns on the radio but there was no sound. Remus says "that is correct but when Tom took over wizarding Britain someone came up with an idea. Let's just listen for now. Kingsley if you please."
Kingsley nods before he points his wand and says "Prongs."
Nothing happens. Everyone is looking confused at Kingsley or Remus when Kingsley says "wait a bit."
They all waited until suddenly the radio started to turn to a station when a voice came out.
"Welcome listeners for another instalment of Potterwatch as normal I am your host River."
Everyone was quiet except Hermione who says "that is Lee (Jordan)."
Almost everybody who ever heard Lee nods as they recognize the voice as soon as Hermione said who it is.
Lee continues "unfortunately we got information that a group of four muggleborns were killed. There were traces of a big fight most probably with snatchers. It looked like they were heavily outnumbered but managed to kill quite a number of them and severely injured others. We suspect that a couple of muggleborns were taken captive. Our hearts and thoughts go out to the muggleborns and their families."
"Unfortunately we have no idea who was there and who was killed as there had been no reports and we don't know if anybody got away or not. Royal is not with us today. We are however sure he is still alive as he is almost as important for the Death Eaters as the elusive Harry Potter and a wonderful dueller and fighter like Harry Potter."
With Royal, Kingsley's face light up and Harry and Hermione immediately recognized that he is Royal.
Lee says "now I would like to take a minute of silence for the four muggleborns that have died and everybody who has died before us."
Everybody was silent to repay their respect. A little over a minute Lee continues "normally our very own Romulus will talk about the pals of Potter. Everything about the friends of Harry Potter, unfortunately, he is also not present today, but as he is an important figure for Harry Potter's fighters and a personal close friend of Harry Potter we are also very sure he is safe and probably listens to us like Royal is also listening."
"I do have some information about the pals of Potter though. We got information that Rubeus Hagrid the gamekeeper from Hogwarts and Professor for the care of magical creatures had a celebration party for Harry Potter in his cabin with some other friends. Hagrid managed to distract the teachers that are Death Eaters or supports of Chief Death Eater to let the students escape unseen. However, he needed to flee into the Forbidden Forest. We don't know if he has made it but the students who managed to get away said that they saw a couple of centaurs with their bows ready and let them pass without threatening any of them and had their bows pointed at the Death Eaters. Also, a loud scream was heard from within the forest after Hagrid had run being chased by Death Eaters. The loud scream raises the suspicion that there is the presence of a giant in the forest which would be new as there were never been giants before not even in the first war. We know that Hagrid's dog Fang has followed him after he bit two Death Eaters. Fang was almost hit with a dark curse but Hagrid jumped in front of Fang and most probably saved him."
Harry and Hermione knew it was most probably Grawp from the loud scream and because Hermione told everyone about Grawp they thought the same. Hermione and Harry were happy that Fang seems to be unhurt thanks to Hagrid.
Lee continues "we have Rapier here with news about Chief Death Eater."
Remus quickly says before Rapier could talk "Chief Death Eater is Tom."
Most nods and thought so but now know for sure.
Rapier says "thank you River."
Bill says "that is George."
Rapier says "As our listeners will know, You-Know-Who's strategy of remaining in the shadows is creating a nice climate of panic, but also like is in total control of the wizarding world. However, there have been alleged sightings and if all of them are genuine, there must be nineteen You-Know-Whos running around!"
Bill suddenly says "wait, that is not George it is Fred."
Rapier continues "You-Know-Who is very elusive almost like he is afraid of Harry Potter and doesn't want Harry to find him. Unfortunately, the climate of panic but also total control suits You-Know-Who, of course, the air of mystery creates more terror than actually showing himself even as he is not to be seen to know to most that he is in total control and are afraid to stand up to his supporters. Afraid for themselves or family."
River says "agreed. So people, let's try and calm it down a bit, things are bad enough without inventing stuff! For instance, this new idea that You-Know-Who can kill you with a single glance from his eyes. That's a Basilisk, listeners! One simple test: Check whether the thing that's glaring at you has legs: if it has, it's safe to look. Although, if it really is You-Know-Who, that's still likely to be the last thing you ever do."
River says "also Harry Potter has killed a basilisk so if there is a Basilisk around you will never find it until it is dead. If it is dead you know one thing Harry Potter is around."
Rapier continues "now the latest story about the Chief Death Eater. We've indeed heard rumours that he keeps being sighted abroad and already killed some wizards. We think he is searching for something."
"Anyway, who wouldn't want a nice little holiday after all the hard work he's been putting in?"
River says " true. But the point is people don't get lulled into a false sense of security, thinking he's out of the country: maybe he is, maybe he isn't. But the fact remains he can be faster than Severus Snape confronted with shampoo."
Rapier says "I never thought I'd hear myself say this, but: safety first!"
River asks "And what of the rumours about Harry Potter? Do you believe he's still in the country? Do you think he's still alive?
Rapier says "I do. If he had been killed or had run away, the Death Eaters would want us to know: they'd tell everyone."
River asks "and what would you say to Harry, if you knew he was listening?
Rapier says "I just know he is listening. I'd tell him to keep it up, whatever he's doing. We know he'll help finish You-Know-Who! Harry we are behind you just let the gold call us and we are there. We will follow you to the end. We know you can defeat You-Know-Who. Don't forget about Spitfire."
River says "exactly don't forget about Spitfire, thank you very much for those wise words. Listeners, that brings us to the end of another Potterwatch. Keep faith. Do what you can to stop You-Know-Who! We don't know when it'll be possible to broadcast again, but you can be sure: we shall be back! Keep each other safe."
The radio went silent. Remus grabbed the radio and shut it off before putting it back on the table.
Kingsley says "that is what I and Remus wanted you all to know. They did forget about the muggles though but mostly I tell them to help them. I think most if not all understand that I am Royal and Remus is Romulus. Before we saw Harry we were helping Harry like this and trying to support the supporters of Harry knowing they are not alone and to make sure they still believe Harry was fighting against You-Kn… Tom. What you Harry are obvious doing."
Daphne says "it is a smart idea, but are you sure Tom, the ministry or Death Eaters don't know about this?"
Kingsley says "we honestly don't know but to make sure that they don't accidentally stumble upon it you need to use a password. Today is was Prongs. For the next time, it is Spitfire like they said. Although I think it has a double meaning."
Kingsley looks at Harry with the obvious question. Everybody looked at Harry except Fleur as she noticed Bill trying to avoid her gaze knowing he knew something. Bill was also not looking at Harry.
Harry decided, to tell the truth "spitfire is Ginny. Spitfire is what most of her brothers call her. Most of the time she doesn't mind it though and maybe even like it."
Everybody that knows Ginny well laughs. Ginny can be sweet one second and dangerous the next like a dragon from protective to attacking while they spitfire in less than a second. Luna knew her also but she only had her normal serene, dreamy smile while Katie laughs remembering the training with Ginny and after the training in the locker room.
Daphne asks "I do have a question if nobody minds."
Nobody shows any signs of having a problem with it.
Daphne asks "what did Fred was it?"
Bill nodded as did Kingsley and Remus.
Daphne continues "mean by just let the gold call us and we are there."
Hermione immediately responds "I think they mean that we need to use the old way to let them know when there would be a DA meeting without Umbitch finding out. Sorry I mean Umbridge."
A few snicker or giggle while Hermione blushes a bit. Sure she doesn't like Umbridge but she is still a ministry official. However when she said Umbridge it didn't feel right. She saw Harry looking at his hands and then she thought 'I am right she is Umbitch after everything she did to my …. our Harry.'
Daphne asks "what do you mean the old way to let them know if there was a DA meeting."
Hermione asks "does someone still have it?"
She looks around and sees Susan and the Patil twins raise their hands. Luna says "I have it in my trunk that is still at Hogwarts I think. I have kept with my medallion until this summer when we knew Snape was to be the new headmaster."
Luna jumps up, walks to Harry and snogs him until he almost drops the Sword of Gryffindor. Luna stops and almost everybody watches her. Luna says "Harry is the reason I got my greatest treasure back the medallion and the Nargles haven't stollen it after I got it from my house because of Harry and Dobby."
Nobody commented and waited until Luna was back in her seat and Harry was back to the present which took a few minutes as Harry didn't expect Luna to snog him.
Megan says "we decided to keep one that Susan has as her auntie could protect her own job while my parents, Hannah's mother and Sally-Ann's father had trouble to do especially as Hannah's mother had a company they needed for their income without them would only get a little money for being present during Wizengamot meetings, trails and votes."
Hermione nods as she understands. She had her bag with her and looks until she grabs a small coin that looks like a gold galleon.
Hermione says "this is what Fred means. During our fifth year and Umbitch's year, we needed a way to contact the others without Umbitch finding out."
Her parents want to admonish her language but they understand why Hermione says such things as the detention was pure torture although now it should be worse as they heard the tales of the Patil twins, Su and Megan from when they were in Hogwarts. Even though they weren't there that long it was long enough to know about the tortures during detention.
Hermione continues "this is the coin Harry used as I kept it for if it was needed like the night Dumbledore was killed. Harry's coin is the master coin and was the only one that could send messages while all the others could only receive. Fred means that many from the DA still have it or the Weasley's have theirs and have a way to contact the others. So if Harry lets know where he needs them they will come with as many as possible."
Suddenly Kreacher and Dobby popped in. Kreacher says "Lady He'mione Kreacher wants to thank Mistress to let Kreacher talk to Wissy and Kreacher's daughter Dissey and would like to talk more to Wissy and Dissey after finding Miss Leanne."
Dobby immediately after Kreacher says "Dobby wants to thank Lady Hermione for allowing Dobby to talk with Dobby's mother Mipsy. Dobby wants to continue the search to help Lady Katie."
Hermione smiles and says "okay you both can continue. If you find her but can't get her out or there are more and you don't know what to do come to me, Luna, Katie, Astoria, Susan, Daphne or Tracey not Harry. Is that understood?"
Kreacher and Dobby bow and say in unison "as you want Mistress" before popping out.
Harry asks "why not to me Hermione?"
Hermione says "as if they can't get to her I don't want you to do some crazy arse stunt like you did when you saved Luna. If she is, in the same way, we need to at least have a plan and you don't go alone."
Harry becomes red from embarrassment and put his hand on his neck to rub it a bit while looking at the ground. Nobody commented on that as they were happy Harry did save Luna and the others (Bellatrix, Narcissa, Katie, Fay and Penelope) while bringing the first blow to Tom's inner circle without a loss as the four muggleborn wizards weren't killed by Tom's inner circle or in a fight with Tom's inner circle.
Luna asks "Harry what about Hagrid? I think he can help with the Hippogriffs and he is your friend."
Harry looks at Hermione but she shrugs a bit. Harry decided to get everybody's input.
Harry asks "what does everybody else think?"
All the adults even Hermione's parents thought it may be a good idea as he is loyal to Harry and with his giant blood he has some resistance against most magic certainly mind magic is very difficult to accomplish. All the adults were a bit wary about the giant but decide to trust Harry's judgement.
Daphne asks "I don't mind Hagrid is a good teacher, but what about his half-brother the 'small' giant? You can't think about taking the giant too right?"
Harry says "if we get Hagrid here Grawp comes with him if Hagrid and Grawp want to come. Leaving Grawp alone is out of the question."
Astoria asks "but Harry you can't be serious to get a giant here."
Harry says "Hagrid believes Grawp to be friendly and Grawp knows Hermione and me. I trust Hagrid and if he trusts Grawp so will I. I know Hagrid does. Grawp was thereby Dumbledore's funeral and he was nice so I will not leave him."
All the girls that knew Harry or had closely observed him like Daphne and Tracey knew he would not change his mind.
Daphne wanted to argue but she was still afraid Harry was not happy with her as she still hasn't completely warmed up to him as she sometimes still used her ice-persona and mask but also as Lord Potter he can decide who comes here and not. The ladies Potter can argue but looking at Hermione, Luna and Katie it seems they weren't planning to.
Charlus and Dorea know Hagrid and besides his loyalty to Dumbledore like him and because of that they decide to not intervene. They wanted to see if Harry tries to convince them or use his status as Lord Potter here in Potter Manor.
The Patil twins seem to also support Harry as did Susan, Fay and Su. Penelope didn't know what to do. She never had much contact with Hagrid besides her seventh year when she followed care of magical creatures and even got a NEWT in the subject. The MacDougal twins weren't sure about the giant half-brother from Hagrid just like Hannah, Lisa, and the Carrow twins. Sally-Ann didn't know what to think just like Megan and Tracey. Daphne and Astoria were against it but decide to trust Harry's judgement.
Astoria did try to change Harry's thoughts one more time as she has a better chance as Harry does love her proven by the soulbond as Daphne doesn't have one.
Astoria asks "Harry I am really not sure bringing Grawp here is a good idea. What about the Hippogriffs, the goblins, the elves?"
Harry says "I am sure Astoria. I don't want to force the issue but like I said leaving Grawp is out of the question. I wouldn't even mind if he takes Fluffy with him I do wonder where Fluffy is though."
Astoria still wasn't sure but she knew two things. One Harry would never put anyone in danger especially not those that were here among many that are not here and two he would prevent Grawp from hurting anyone even if it cost his life. You can see as third he would not change his mind as Harry is stubborn and thinks he is right.
When nobody went against Harry, Harry says "Tarpy, Tarby and Tolney."
All three pop in and ask "what can Tarpy/ Tarby/ Tolney do for Master Harry?"
Harry says "I have an important request can you try to find Rubeus Hagrid and bring him here and if he wants his dog, giant half-brother and anything else he wants as long as you don't get hurt. Try to go tonight if possible but don't stay out too late I don't want you hurt. There is a small clearing a few miles in the forbidden forest where Grawp was kept by Hagrid at least in the fifth year he was. Last year Grawp wasn't kept and chained anymore. He had more free room to walk as long as he didn't attack too many forest creatures and got most food from Hagrid."
Tarpy, Tarby and Tolney bow and pops out. Harry says "let's hope they can find Hagrid fast."
Remus says "Harry I think we need to get someone else before Sirius was killed he wanted to help someone that Dumbledore used and was under his mind control according to what Sirius saw when he talked to her."
Harry asks "who?"
Remus says "she is a squib and we were afraid that Tom would find your home…"
Harry interrupts Remus and says "it was never my home. It was just a house where I lived but it is and was never my home. Hogwarts was more my home than that house ever was. Well now, this is my home."
Remus says "we are afraid she would become a target as she tried to help you after the dementors attacked you."
Harry immediately says "you mean…"
Remus nods his head and says "yes ….."
Let's end here. I got most of what I wanted. I apologize for the delay but I had a small vacation last week. In the next chapter, we go to Hogwarts and Hagrid gets found.
I do have one question. Do you want to see a return of Fluffy?
Also in the next chapter, Voldemort finds Grindelwald, Harry calls the elder wand and more if the words count allows it.
Please read and review. PMs are also appreciated and I answer earlier as I answer reviews after I update the new chapter and PMs as soon as I have read them.