Author's Note:
DISCLAIMER: I do not own the characters or world. All credit to JK Rowling.
Hi guys, I hope that you're continuing to enjoy the story. Please please please follow, favourite and review; working 3 jobs at the moment and doing this in little time so would be nice to know that its worth it. Thanks so much for reading, I appreciate it :)
Enjoy!
GrumpyBoyBen
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Chapter 7 – Letters and Lockets
Grimmauld Place was starting to stir as the morning light filtered through the windows, and the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. The sound of owls fluttering and tapping against the glass signalled the arrival of the much-awaited Hogwarts letters. Harry, Ron, Hermione, Ginny and the twins sat around the table in the kitchen, their eyes fixed on the pile of parchment before them.
Molly Weasley, beaming with pride and bustling about the kitchen, handed each of them their letters. Ron's eyes widened in disbelief as he saw the prefect badge attached to his letter.
"I'm a prefect?!" he exclaimed; his voice tinged with surprise. Hermione, who was already holding her own prefect badge, smiled warmly at Ron, giving him a tight hug and congratulated him.
"Congratulations, Ron! You're going to be a brilliant prefect, I know it!" she said.
Harry couldn't help but feel a surge of happiness for his friends. He admired Ron's hard work and growth, and he knew that Hermione would excel in her prefect duties with her intelligence and determination, as she did last time.
"That's great news, you two! Well done!" Harry said, giving them both a genuine smile.
As the news spread through the rest of the house, everybody seemed to gather near the kitchen.
"Oh isn't this wonderful Arthur, everybody in the family a prefect so far!" An elated Molly said.
Fred and George gave each other quizzical looks, and proceeded to both approach their mother, responding with, "Excuse me…do we live next door? You should be thankful that some of your children opt to focus on important things rather than school."
Molly and Arthur both shook their heads, chuckling at the twins' little soliloquy. Ginny, who had been quietly observing the scene, couldn't hide her pride for her brother. "Well done, Ron! I knew you'd make it!" she said, giving him a warm hug. Ron blushed slightly at the attention but was clearly pleased with the recognition.
Harry's gaze swept around the room, taking in the presence of his friends and the rest of the Order members staying at Grimmauld Place. He saw Mr. Weasley, who had a proud glint in his eye as he congratulated Ron and Hermione. Remus Lupin gave them both a nod of approval, and Tonks playfully ruffled Ron's hair, saying, "Who knew you had it in you, Ron?"
As the excitement settled down, everybody turned their attention elsewhere, which was mainly towards Molly's home-cooked breakfast. Hermione turned to Harry with a mixture of pride and concern.
"Harry, you're really taking this summer seriously, aren't you?" she said, referring to Harry's dedication to studying and preparing himself for the challenges ahead.
Harry nodded, his expression serious. "Yeah, I am. I just feel like I need to be ready for whatever might come. We can't afford to be unprepared, not with Voldemort out there," he replied, his voice resolute.
Ron gave Harry an understanding look. "You're right, mate. It's good to be vigilant, but don't forget to take breaks and have some fun too," he said, giving Harry a friendly pat on the back.
Harry definitely heard and registered Ron's piece of advice. He was right, a balance was needed. His thoughts drifted to Quidditch, which had always been something that had taken his mind off of anything stressful, deciding that it would be one of his main breaks from his preparations. And besides, he did really want to win the Quidditch Cup; he thought it was a sin that he actually only one the cup once himself last time around.
"I know," Harry replied with a small smile. "I'll find the right balance. Besides, I've got you two to keep me in line, right?" he added, trying to lighten the mood.
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After a satisfying lunch at Grimmauld Place, Harry gazed at Hermione with a mischievous grin. "Hey, Hermione, how about we explore the library? There's bound to be some useful stuff locked up in there."
Hermione's eyes lit up with curiosity, and she nodded eagerly. "I never thought I'd hear you say 'how about we explore the library' Harry Potter. Something has definitely changed with you!" She said with a smile.
Harry smiled and mentally thought 'She's not wrong'.
Ron, who had been sitting nearby, overheard their conversation and decided to join in. "You two aren't leaving me behind on this, are you? I could use a bit of adventure."
Hermione chuckled, "Ron and Harry voluntarily coming to the library? Surely…surely I'm dreaming?"
As they navigated through the dimly lit and narrow hallways of Grimmauld Place, Harry's excitement grew. "Sirius mentioned there might be books on darker magic. I thought it would be good to get an idea of what we might face."
Hermione nodded, her eyes filled with slight caution, though. "It's a smart plan, Harry. Knowledge is our most potent weapon. Just remember to stay cautious."
"Definitely," Harry replied. "I'll be careful and only focus on what's essential. Don't worry about me"
Finally, they reached the entrance to the library, concealed behind a dusty tapestry. Harry whispered the password Sirius had given him, and the door creaked open, revealing a vast room filled with towering bookshelves.
"Blimey," Ron gasped, his eyes scanning the impressive sight. "This place is massive!"
Hermione's face was radiant with excitement. "Indeed it is, Ron. Just look at all these books. This house is growing on me you know."
The trio spread out, each drawn to different sections of the library. Harry headed towards a shelf with books on darker magic and pulled out a leather-bound volume titled "Ancient Curses and Forbidden Spells."
Hermione, not far away, had amassed a small stack of books on magical theory, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. She glanced at Harry and teased, "Looks like we both know what we're after."
Ron, scanning a book on strategic magical defences, raised an eyebrow. "Might as well pick up something useful, right?"
Harry felt a surge of pride seeing Ron's dedication. His best friend had been a great duellist towards the end of the war, but his best qualities were as a strategist, which he used to great effect during the Battle of Hogwarts. But, he'd not really focused on enhancing his magic and knowledge until the war had practically started, and now seeing him, it was a good sign of things to come.
As they settled in with their chosen books, the library seemed to cocoon them in a hushed, scholarly atmosphere. Dust particles danced in the sunbeams filtering through the old windows, and the air carried the musty scent of aged parchment.
Harry couldn't help but notice Hermione's eagerness as she devoured her books, scribbling down notes in her precise handwriting. "You're really into this, Hermione."
Hermione glanced up, her cheeks flushing with enthusiasm. "Oh, absolutely, Harry! There's so much to learn here. I want to be as prepared as possible."
Harry nodded, appreciating Hermione's thirst for knowledge. He also knew that part of the reason for Hermione's enthusiasm was that in the back of her mind, she was somewhat frustrated that he'd done all this theoretical learning over the summer. Harry laughed internally, wondering what she would do if she found out that he'd been doing practical magic as well.
He turned to Ron, curious about his book choice. "Strategic defences, huh? That's smart, Ron."
Ron scratched his head. "Well, you know, gotta start somewhere, and I guess I could be alright at it."
Harry clapped him on the back. "I'd say better than alright, mate."
As the hours passed, the trio immersed themselves in their readings, the library enveloping them in a serene cocoon of learning. The afternoon sunlight cast long shadows across the ancient tomes, creating an aura of mystery.
When Harry finally put down his book, Hermione looked up from her stack with excitement. "Find anything interesting, Harry?"
Harry grinned. "Yeah, some of these curses are pretty dark. But it's good to know what we might face."
The trio called time on their time in the library, although they agreed that it wouldn't be their last time in there before the trip back to school.
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Sitting at her pink desk in her meticulously organized office, Dolores Jane Umbridge, the Senior Undersecretary to the Minister of Magic, felt a mix of confusion and frustration. It had been a few days since she had cunningly orchestrated the release of some dementors from Azkaban to attack that wretched Potter boy in Little Whinging. The plan had been set in motion with the expectation that he would break the Ministry's strict laws on underage magic, giving her the perfect opportunity to smear his reputation and discredit him. And yet, to her dismay, nothing had happened. Potter hadn't used any forbidden spells, and worst of all, he hadn't met his deserved end.
Umbridge's eyes narrowed, and she tapped her fingers impatiently on the surface of her pink desk. How could this have gone so wrong? She had put so much effort into ensuring that the dementors were unleashed undetectable to herself, leaving no trace back to the Ministry. She had revelled in the thought of seeing that insufferable Potter boy pay for his defiance and disrespect towards the Ministry.
But now, she found herself grappling with her failure to achieve the desired outcome. She could feel the seed of doubt creeping into her mind. Did she underestimate Potter's resilience, or was he more cunning than she had given him credit for? The thought was quickly brushed away though, he was merely a spoilt child, who was probably incredibly lucky to miss the dementors.
As the clock on the wall ticked away, Umbridge's mind raced with anger and determination. She couldn't let this setback deter her. Oh no, she would not rest until Potter was put back on the correct path, one that aligned with her vision for a perfectly controlled wizarding society, where the Ministry's authority was unquestioned, and dissenters were silenced. The idea of teaching at Hogwarts was a painful one. She despised children. But, a place teeming with impressionable young minds, was a positive. It would be the perfect opportunity to mould the students' beliefs and values according to her principles. She could already envision herself sitting in the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, dictating her version of the curriculum and ensuring that the students knew their place in society – obedient, compliant, and subservient to the Ministry.
A wicked smile played on her lips as she imagined the fear and discomfort that she could instil in those who dared to question her authority. But her thoughts shifted back to Potter – the thorn in her side, the symbol of resistance against her perfect vision.
She made a silent vow to herself – at Hogwarts, she would ensure that Potter's true nature as a disobedient troublemaker would be revealed to all. She would subject him to the full extent of educational decrees and punishments, making an example of him for others who dared to defy her. She would break him, one way or another, and show the world that the Ministry's power was absolute.
In her mind, she rehearsed the speeches she would deliver, emphasizing the importance of discipline and obedience in a world plagued by darkness. She would paint Potter as a dangerous and reckless young wizard, a threat to the harmony of their society. As she planned her schemes more, Umbridge's determination only grew stronger. She spoke to the Minister, devising strategies to ensure that her time at Hogwarts would be transformative, not just for the students, but for the entire wizarding community. The idea of instilling her values in the next generation fueled her passion, and she relished the thought of being revered and feared as a figure of authority.
Not long left now.
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As the dinner plates were being cleared up at Grimmauld Place, Ginny and Tonks found themselves side by side, sharing giggles and laughter. Tonks, using her metamorphagus abilities, transformed her face into various comical animal shapes, earning genuine amusement from Ginny. The two had become fast friends since the Weasleys' arrival at the old house, and their shared sense of humor brought them even closer.
As they continued their playful antics, the sound of footsteps approached, and Ron and Harry entered the kitchen, clearly on the hunt for a snack. Tonks greeted Ron with a friendly wave, and the two of them engaged in an animated conversation. Harry found himself momentarily left alone with Ginny, and despite his efforts to act casually, he couldn't help but notice how attractive she was. However, he firmly reminded himself that he didn't want to act on any romantic feelings. He knew that this was the summer before their sixth year, the same year last time around when Ginny stopped being so shy and awkward around him.
Remembering that Ginny was a person, not just a fan, had helped Harry see her in a new light. He appreciated her for who she was – a strong, talented, and independent young witch. They started chatting about Quidditch, Ginny telling Harry about her and Ron's drills at the Burrow.
"Oh, I miss playing Quidditch," Harry said with a wistful smile. "It feels like forever since I last flew on a broom."
As their conversation continued, Ginny casually mentioned her boyfriend, Michael Corner, in passing. The reminder caught Harry off guard, and a wave of jealousy washed over him. Even though he wasn't dating Ginny, he couldn't help but feel a pang of envy at the thought of her being with someone else.
Trying to shake off the feeling, Harry reminded himself that he had other priorities this year – preparing for war. But deep down, he knew that his feelings for Ginny were stronger than ever. Maybe he had underestimated how tough it would be to be around her and not let his emotions get in the way. 'I guess we'll find out', he thought.
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Late in the evening, after everyone had dispersed to their own corners of Grimmauld Place, Harry found himself thinking about the locket, and the old house-elf who was looking after it. Kreacher had become somewhat friendly in his prior timeline, especially after he found out that Harry was trying to follow in Regulus' footsteps. And Harry reckoned that it was the right course of action again.
Taking a deep breath, he made his way down the creaky wooden stairs, each step a reminder of the house's age and history. The kitchen was mostly quiet, save for the soft crackling of the fireplace. Kreacher, the aged and grumpy house-elf, was busy puttering around, muttering to himself as he cleaned the already spotless surfaces. The flickering fire cast eerie shadows on the walls, adding to the unsettling atmosphere.
Harry's footsteps echoed in the empty kitchen, and Kreacher glanced up, his eyes narrowing suspiciously at the sight of the young wizard. He scowled, but curiosity got the better of him, and he reluctantly turned to face Harry. "What do you want, filthy half-blood?" Kreacher spat, his voice dripping with disdain.
"I need to talk to you, Kreacher," Harry said calmly, determined to keep his composure despite the elf's hostility.
Kreacher's wrinkled face twisted into an even deeper frown, and he folded his arms across his chest. "Speak quickly, then. Kreacher has no time for your nonsense."
Harry hesitated for a moment, trying to find the right words to gain the elf's trust. "I know you were close to Regulus Black," he finally said, carefully watching Kreacher's reaction.
The elf's eyes widened in surprise, and a flicker of sorrow crossed his face. "Master Regulus was brave, yes," Kreacher replied, his voice tinged with emotion.
"I want to finish Regulus' mission," Harry said, taking a step closer. "I want to destroy the locket."
Kreacher's eyes narrowed suspiciously, and he took a cautious step back. "Why should Kreacher believe you? You're just like the others, tricking Kreacher and breaking his heart."
Harry understood Kreacher's mistrust. He had seen firsthand how house-elves were often mistreated and taken advantage of, and he knew he had to find a way to earn Kreacher's trust.
"I promise you, Kreacher," Harry said earnestly, "I have no intention of tricking or hurting you. Destroying the locket is important, and it's what Regulus would have wanted."
Kreacher looked torn, his eyes darting between Harry and the locket. "Kreacher tried, but the locket, it wouldn't be destroyed."
"I know it won't be easy," Harry admitted. "But I believe we can do it together. Regulus was a brave and brilliant man, and I want to honor his memory by completing his mission."
The elf's eyes welled with tears, and he seemed to be wrestling with conflicting emotions. Harry knew he had touched on something deep within Kreacher, a loyalty to his master that ran deep.
"Please, Kreacher," Harry implored, "I need your help. I can't do this alone. Help me destroy the locket, for Regulus."
Kreacher looked at Harry, and for a moment, there was a glimmer of trust in his eyes. "Kreacher will give you the locket," he finally said, his voice softening. "But Kreacher will not tell anyone, not even Master Sirius."
"Thank you, Kreacher," Harry said, feeling a rush of gratitude. "Your loyalty to Regulus means a lot to me."
As Kreacher handed the locket to Harry, there was a newfound understanding between them. Harry knew that he had taken a step towards building a bond with the house-elf, and he was determined to treat Kreacher with the respect and kindness he deserved.
With the locket safely hidden away, Harry felt a sense of relief and purpose. He knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but he also knew that he had gained a valuable ally in Kreacher.