A/N: Hey everyone! Managed to get this one edited, but haven't been able to write too much recently because of work and exams. I should be able to dive back into it next week, and my outline continues to get fleshed out. I added a new chapter break for flashbacks, and hope the site doesn't ignore this one.
Thanks for all the reviews, favorites, and follows! I'll get 24 up before I head out on Friday, but 25 may take a bit longer.
Chapter 23
I—I—I—I
Harry lay stretched out in the grass, exhausted after another hand-to-hand bout with Charlus. The man was a savant, and was clearly determined to whip his descendant into shape. The teen had steadily improved to the point where he could withstand the man's attacks for a couple minutes, but Charlus' larger size and immense skill eventually overpowered him every time.
Harry felt a towel drop onto his stomach and sat up, noticing the elder Potter moving to sit in the grass next to him.
"You're getting better."
"Thanks, but nowhere close to you, yet."
"I'd hope not," Charlus replied with a chuckle. "I have years of experience and fifty pounds on you. You have natural talent, though, and as you mature the power will come."
"I'm a bit surprised you're so intent on me learning to fight," Harry admitted respectfully. "I figured all my training would be magic related."
"You'll also be a bit surprised how well a nicely timed hook can turn a fight in your favor. Wizards, especially those you'll be at odds with, think muggle combat is beneath them. In my time in the military I didn't hesitate to lead with my fists if the situation warranted, and some of my men even carried muggle firearms. I never felt comfortable with them, but they were an incredibly effective backup plan."
"Something about using a gun feels wrong to me."
"I felt the same, but I'd advise you to really consider all options available to you before dismissing them. I doubt you'll feel comfortable with every decision you have ahead of you, but you'll need to make them all the same."
"I will," Harry promised resolutely, determination in his eyes.
"Good," Charlus said while turning to face the boy. "Now, we need to speak of another form of power at your disposal. What have you learned of the British Wizarding Forces?"
"Only what you and Arcturus have told me. I know that you were their commander, with him as your second-in-command, and that you spent months training them for the war."
"We did, but I was referring more to the logistics behind the force. It can only be called by the Wizengamot, and is dissolved by their vote as well. It will be those men and women that will help you fight, and you'll need to call it back into action when you can."
"What about the aurors?"
"Even if you manage to oust the current Minister and install one more capable, aurors aren't trained for war, and they're a peacekeeping force at best. If the war turns as dangerous as I think it will, you'll need soldiers, not police. The auror training is a joke compared to what my men went through."
"How do I get the Wizengamot to do so?" Harry asked, feeling overwhelmed by the conversation.
"I believe you'll need to wait until attacks are prevalent, unfortunately, as people will be hesitant to act so strongly too early. You'll have to build a block of allies first, of course, to make sure you have the required votes, but the Wizengamot should be amenable when their lives are in danger. The only hurdle will be figuring out funding and leadership."
"I'll pay for it myself," he quickly offered.
"And you may have to," Charlus agreed. "But just remember, the Potter fortune is meant to be passed on."
"I'll have nobody to pass it on to if we don't win the war. I'll spend the entire fortune happily, and worry about rebuilding it afterwards."
"Fair enough," the man relented with a proud look. "As for leadership, it will depend on the size of the force. I only have one name to give you, unfortunately, and you'll likely require a cadre of leaders. You'll need to approach Alastor Moody, and he will hopefully be able to recruit further officers."
"Mad-Eye? He got that nickname for a reason…"
"Nothing wrong with a little madness when pointed in the right direction. He was a teenager during my war, and trained with his older brother whenever Atticus was on leave. Atticus was a fine soldier, and often spoke proudly of Alastor's skill."
"I'll see what I can do," Harry relented. "He seemed like he didn't hate me at school this year."
"He's necessary. He's the only choice I'm aware of, and will know better than anyone how to build the unit.
"Enough of whatever pessimistic topic you two are discussing," Dorea called as she approached. "I made a treacle tart, and it's quickly getting cold. Head on up to the house."
The two Potter's stood, Charlus clapping his nephew on the shoulder.
"You are capable, my boy. From everything you've shown me here, you won't stop until you've proven victorious, and I'll be watching proudly as you do."
"Thank you, sir," Harry replied with a small smile, his anxiety calming in light of the man's confidence.
I—I—I—I
December 11, 1995
The next two weeks at Hogwarts followed a very entertaining routine, with the twins and Peeves causing general mischief and mayhem as only the three of them could. Their actions inspired similar behavior from some of the students, leading to an outrageous number of detentions and suspensions. Seamus was the first of their remaining training group to earn a suspension, and according to Dean, the Gryffindor chose to view it as an extended holiday break, happily leaving the castle.
Harry focused on keeping Umbridge sleepless, though constantly waking himself throughout the night quickly grew exhausting. He didn't need as much sleep as most people his age, but the interruptions to the hours he did get eventually showed on his face and in his energy levels.
After a training session with the entire group the week prior, Daphne and Hermione ambushed him on the topic. They made him promise to give up on the nighttime torture for the disgusting woman, but Harry compromised, promising he'd find another option. It took him three days, but he and the twins eventually managed to tie the ward stone to the Marauder's Map. Now, between the hours of nine at night and eight in the morning, the castle alarms sounded constantly in whatever room the witch was in.
Umbridge's new name for Harry was quickly adopted by his friends, and he regretted the prank as soon as he heard it from them. Ron told him that it was worth the frustration, however, as it immediately became one of the few things the students looked forward to. The Headmistress was in the habit of ranting to the entire school at meals, and there were even betting odds on how many times she would profess her appreciation of his quidditch skill.
Harry's favorite part of the short span wasn't training days or pranks, though. It was the days in between, when various members of the group would come to just hang out. Ron, Hermione, and Daphne visited the most, though he hadn't had any time alone with his girlfriend since their moment in the Defense room. The two grew closer despite the company, and Harry couldn't help but wonder at how happy the girl made him.
The joyous time was shattered, unfortunately, by news over the weekend of another string of attacks. Ten families were targeted in their homes, though six were on the elves' lists. Tracey's, Ernie's, and Katie's families were among the six who were all safely transported to the new village, and the girls offered him relieved hugs, and Ernie a solemn handshake, when he told them their families were safe. The gratitude, however, didn't curb the anger Harry felt over the four families that were killed.
He couldn't understand why people that wouldn't join Voldemort would also refuse the security that his team's list provided. Their neutrality killed them, and it was heartbreaking for the teen. Daphne spent the majority of their time Sunday evening either holding his hand or scratching his back, knowing how affected he was by the deaths. He thanked the girl sincerely when they said goodbye, but made a promise to himself to kick things further into gear.
As he made his escape from the castle for the scheduled Monday Wizengamot session, he snapped out four quick Patronuses. It was time to get things moving.
—
His office was a bit crowded with the addition of Amelia, but Harry was grateful for her presence. Her reputation in the Chamber and as the former Director of the MLE was unimpeachable, as was her fury at the attacks. Sirius, Daniel, and Albus were also visibly angry, though Harry knew Daniel's face would be entirely neutral when he entered the Chamber.
"How are the new families settling in, Sirius?"
"They're fine, kiddo. Charlie's run through everything with them, and they're just happy to be alive. The town's really coming along."
"I'm glad they're safe, but we need to start pushing," Harry said firmly. "Albus, it's time to reinstate the British Wizarding Forces, and I believe they should be led by Alastor Moody."
If any of the four were surprised, they didn't show it.
"We three spoke of doing the same last night," Dumbledore answered grimly. " And I've already approached Alastor. He's recovered from his ordeal last year, and seems determined, if not excited, by the possibility."
"I had the same thought without naming a Commander," Daniel offered. "You can count on the block of votes from the Faithful Eight, as long as the logistics make sense. Someone's going to have to pay for this, and it won't be cheap. Soldiers' pay, equipment, rations, training, lodging... There's a lot that'll need to be figured out."
"I'm paying for it," Harry countered with a shrug. "At least at first. If we can negotiate some sort of loan to the Wizengamot that gets paid back eventually, great. But if not, I'll cover it all. We'll build training grounds and support buildings near the village."
"Harry, we're talking hundreds of thousands if not millions here," Sirius interjected awkwardly.
"And we're talking thousands of lives in danger, Pads. Money doesn't mean anything if we're dead. I have the funds to cover it, and I'll figure out a way to recover some of it afterwards."
"I'll chip in," his godfather quickly offered. "And if we approach the proposal correctly, we may be able to convince the affluent families to do the same."
"I'll run the logistical side of things," Amelia added, drawing a sigh of relief from Harry. "It's not too different from my old job at the Ministry."
"Amelia, you're a godsend," he replied thankfully. "I was gonna ask, but I didn't want you to feel obligated."
"Daniel," Albus interrupted. "Would you mind stepping out for a minute? We are about to approach awkward subjects."
"Of course, Albus," the man agreed instantly. "Harry, you'll have a large contribution from me as well."
"Thank you."
"I'm making a bit of a move in the session, and I hope we can speak after," the man added.
"Of course. I'll meet you in your office."
The man nodded as he left, closing the door behind him.
"Harry," Albus began seriously. "You'll need to work past your hesitancy to ask for help from those on your side. Amelia is perfect for the role she's volunteered for, and though I understand your reticence, you can't afford it. You'll need to lead us, in every sense of the word. That includes asking the appropriate person to step into a role."
"I know, sir," Harry replied with a grimace. "It's just that I don't know Amelia as well as the rest of you, and I feel a bit awkward asking such an accomplished witch to do as I say. I'm still fifteen. I'm surprised any of you follow my plans at all."
"I appreciate the compliment," Amelia replied kindly. "But I signed on knowing full well where I stand in the chain of command. And from everything I've seen and heard from you in my brief time, I'm comfortable following your lead. And if anyone that joins us isn't as comfortable, it's your job to delegate regardless. You're the one that will see us through this."
"I'll work on it," he promised. "And I thank you for volunteering. You realize you'll be going head to head with Moody occasionally?"
"Everyday, more like. I can handle Alastor, and he's the only person for the job."
"That's what Charlus said. Any chance you can steal some aurors for us?"
"Robards will quit as soon as we ask him to," Sirius offered. "And he told me the Hogsmeade group will as well. They may be able to pull a few more, but we'll need to focus on recruiting outside of the Ministry when we can."
"We can figure that out after we get the unit approved," Albus said with a smile. "I'm glad we're like-minded on this. Amelia, perhaps you and I could give these two a chance to catch up before the session."
The woman agreed with a smile, and the impressive wizard opened the door for the equally impressive witch.
"You look great, kiddo," Sirius said with a grin once the door was closed.
"I feel great. I'm furious about the attacks obviously, but I've just felt so much stronger since Daphne and I spoke."
"I can tell, and Moony mentioned the same. I'm glad it worked out in the long run. So how did you ask her?"
"Ask her what?" Harry asked confusedly.
"I want the story! How did you ask her to be your girlfriend? First kiss! Tell me things!" the man demanded with a laugh. Harry's stomach dropped a bit at the questions, his inexperience quickly becoming apparent.
"Er… our conversation wasn't as concrete as all that," he answered awkwardly. "We're together, but I didn't ask her to be my girlfriend. That's just kinda assumed, right?"
"Harry, Harry, Harry," Sirius replied, shaking his head. "It might feel like a given to you, but I promise that putting a name to your relationship is important to her. It would make her happy, and that's your goal, right?"
"Above everything," Harry agreed, feeling the truth of it in his chest. "I'll figure it out."
"What about the first kiss!?"
"Uh… we haven't really…"
"Harry!"
"I'm working on it, okay! Leave me alone and find your own person, you degenerate."
—
Harry sat next to Sirius, with Amelia on his other side, as they waited for Dumbledore to call the session to order. The Chamber was silent, waiting on the action, and Daniel chose that moment to enter. He walked confidently up to his seat, addressing Harry before he took it.
"Lord Potter," he intoned firmly, his voice carrying through the room. "Thank you for your actions in protection of my daughter. I was sorry to hear it resulted in your expulsion."
Harry being kicked from the school had been front page news for three days, but the Prophet obviously didn't go into why. The teen realized this was Daniel's way to get the story out, while also finding a reason to be friendlier during the coming sessions.
"Of course, Lord Greengrass," he answered after standing. "I won't tolerate abusive behavior from anyone, regardless of their family's position, though your daughter would have easily taken care of the child if I hadn't intervened."
Lucius' face quickly turned furious, and Harry watched as he raged to his feet.
"HOLD YOUR TONGUE, MALFOY!" Daniel roared, throwing any sense of decorum out the window. Most of the gathered members flinched in shock, as Daniel had never shown such emotion in the Chamber.
"The behavior of your pathetic excuse for an heir towards my daughter this year has been abhorrent, and only Lord Potter's actions have stayed my hand! I am a hair's breadth from challenging you here and now, and I guarantee that any words from you that don't include an unreserved apology will end that hesitation.
"Your son is a bully, sir, and an ineffectual one at that, just as you've been over the years. Your influence is with our weak-minded Minister, not in this Chamber, so do not open your mouth until given permission to do so."
Harry, Sirius, and Amelia stood in support of his words, followed shortly by Augusta and Robert. Harry was stunned by the man's reaction, but was glad for the chance to stand next to him. Lucius' cronies seemed unsure of how to respond, and their leader's pale face didn't appear to inspire confidence. The arrogant man recovered, however, and sneered up at those standing against him. He waited with a slightly raised hand for a long, awkward moment for Daniel to acknowledge him, the man finally doing so with a sharp gesture.
"You disparage my son's actions yet praise Potter's. He could've killed my boy in his reaction to a trivial matter. I, of course, apologize if any offense was given to your daughter, but the boy standing with you is a danger to our peace. He has clearly begun to sow divisiveness, and his actions will prove our downfall. We must work together, Lord Greengrass."
Harry was confused by how quickly things had dissolved into chaos, but knew Daniel wouldn't have acted without a plan. His own quickly took a backseat, as he stepped forward in defense of his friend.
"It isn't me causing divisiveness, Lucius," Harry responded tersely. "It's your cowardly Dark Lord. Too scared to make himself known, forcing his inferiors to do his bidding. Tell me, just how many of the attacks did you participate in yourself?"
"That's a dangerous thing to accuse, Potter," Lucius spat, losing control of himself.
"I'm a dangerous person, Malfoy, and I stand on my morals. I don't hide behind someone more powerful like some child holding their mother's skirt."
"I'm twice the man you'll ever be," he spat in response.
"Prove it," Harry replied softly with a dangerous smirk. "Show everyone here how superior you are. Albus can cast the wards and officiate, and you can even dictate the terms. But you'll need to let someone know what to tell your family, as you won't be returning to them."
"Lord Potter," Daniel interrupted, his neutral tone returning a bit. "I believe I have the honor of any duel that may occur, though I believe I have a better solution."
Harry nodded, knowing the man had something up his sleeve, and returned to his seat along with the rest of the Eight.
"I've heard the rumors, Malfoy," Daniel continued, the Chamber silent as he spoke. "I've felt the loss that so many of you share, and I've seen how little the Ministry is doing to combat the attacks. Your power is immense at the moment, sir. Your influence with our Minister is absolute, as is your control over the school that so many of our children attend.
"I believe your methods and politics to be harmful to our world, but I'll allow bygones to be bygones, and even throw my influence behind you in support, if you do just one thing here and now."
"And what would that be, Lord Greengrass," Lucius replied, regaining his normal snootiness.
"I ask that we take the first few minutes of this session to prove our loyalty to our world. That we call a vote to enact an oath on our magic. An oath that westand against these attacks, and against Lord Voldemort or any future Dark Lord. An oath that guarantees that we hold the public's welfare above all else. If you are able to make that oath, sir, I'll forgive your child's transgressions, and return my respect for your family."
Harry watched as the vast majority of members nodded thoughtfully and caught Arthur's eye, the man giving him a wink. Harry knew the vote would pass, and was impressed by Daniel's power move, wishing he had thought of it earlier.
Lucius was rendered speechless for a long moment, obviously trying to come up with an argument. He was saved from responding by the Chief Warlock, though the words weren't a comfort to the Death Eater.
"Lord Greengrass," Albus began seriously. "I support your motion, and will happily call for a vote if one is proposed. It is the right time to reaffirm our commitment to our people, though it will need to be made a formality once we begin. I shall call us to order after a two minute grace period to allow tempers to calm."
The Chamber broke out in frantic whispers, none more urgent than Lucius and his group. Harry turned to Daniel before he could take his seat, lightly grabbing the man's arm.
"You just destroyed the Greengrass neutrality," he whispered as the man turned.
"I'll never be neutral when it comes to my daughters," Daniel countered as quietly. "We'll speak after."
Harry nodded as he released the man and shared a brief look with Sirius, who seemed as surprised as he was. The Faithful Eight members felt no need to talk amongst themselves, knowing how they would vote, and Harry was grateful for the group.
At the very end of the two minutes, sixteen members left the Chamber, heads held high. Harry wasn't surprised by the number, but realized the new vacant seats now allowed the Faithful Eight a majority. Arcturus would be pleased.
—
"A 'bit of a move'?" Harry asked, smirking.
He was still dumbfounded by Daniel's move, and the immediate fallout it brought with it. Directly after the session and passed vote on the forces, he followed Lord Greengrass to his office, the two more than satisfied with the result.
"I honestly didn't intend to be so dramatic. It's just every time I think of that arrogant asshole and his son, I see red."
"I thought that was everyone's normal reaction to the pair."
"Maybe so," Daniel said with a grin. "In the past I've been able to ignore how entitled the man is, but Daphne's letter explaining your expulsion tore through my composure immediately. Emily had to talk me down from showing up at their manor that night."
"I'm gonna kill him," Harry promised darkly. "Even if Draco hadn't acted like a dick towards Daphne, Lucius was always going to die."
"You'll have to beat me to it."
"The Greengrass neutrality has been thrown out the window, then."
"It should've been already," the man countered firmly. "Sitting on the sideline may be beneficial to my vault or my career, but I'm done pretending. Your relationship with my daughter will soon be common knowledge, and more importantly, it's the right thing to do."
"I can't ask that of you," Harry said softly.
"You didn't ask it. My allegiance is freely offered, and I've been wrestling for weeks over what the last war would've looked like if I had used the resources I have at hand to help."
"Nothing would've changed except the danger your family was in."
"You can't know that," the man argued. "Even if I just offered myself as James' secret keeper, everything would be different."
"Maybe," the teen relented after a moment. "But everything that's come before has forced me to be this version of myself. I'm ending this nonsense, I swear it. It's just a matter of being prepared."
"I want to help you get there. I'm tired of having to leave the room, and of wondering what you're planning. I'll head to the Manor after this and sign whatever I need to sign, if that's okay with you."
"Of course it is, Daniel, and I'd appreciate your support. But if you do, you're essentially signing on to follow me into war. Don't make that decision without talking to your wife at the very least. You'll have my friendship and protection without a signature."
"We've talked," the man said with a smile. "Since we had you over for dinner that night, Emily's been trying to convince me to give up the act. She was always gonna win that fight, and she'll be insufferable when I tell her she finally has."
"I figured you'd be used to her winning by now," Harry replied with a laugh.
"I definitely am, but I still hold out hope. You shouldn't poke fun, though, you're in for a similar fate."
Harry fought a blush at the thought of Daphne. He felt a bit uncomfortable talking to her father about his relationship, but Daniel's smile helped set him at ease.
"I think I'm okay with that. So far she's been more than understanding of everything, but I have to assume she'll get annoyed by my life at some point."
"How's it going with you two? Emily mentioned you'd made up, but was stingy with the details."
"It's been good," Harry replied awkwardly. "She accepted my apology for being an idiot, but let me know exactly what she expects in the future. I'm honestly happier than I ever thought possible, and it's a bit overwhelming."
"Yeah, that'll happen," the man said with a chuckle. "I need you to do something for me, though. Never forget what it felt like when you pushed her away. Don't dwell on it, or let it dictate your decisions, but remember that pain. Your life will only get more complicated in the near future, and at some point that need to protect her will return. When it does, remember what it felt like without her."
"I'll always protect her," he countered. "But when I think of how weak I was in that time, I know that having her in my life is the best way to do so."
"I'm glad. She deserves the best, Harry, and I can think of none better."
"I'll do everything I can to be deserving of that."
"Just be yourself, as that seems to have been more than good enough so far. Just do me a favor and spare me the romantic details. I'm sure Sirius can handle that avenue of advice."
"Nothing to worry about so far," Harry muttered without thought. He immediately flushed as the words registered, and looked at his friend apologetically. Daniel was smirking at him in amusement.
"Your friend and Daphne's father are currently arguing in my mind."
"You know, it really sucks those people are one and the same," the teen complained.
"I bet it does," the man agreed with a laugh. "If it helps, every time Emily or I get a letter from her, my lovely wife threatens my health if I act like a jerk."
"I like Emily better."
"I hear that a lot."
—
December 22, 1995
The last few days before the break were peaceful, for Harry at least. The twins' wards were proving popular and effective, with their targets being hexed multiple times a day. They decided to name them 'trick wires', which just felt right. The confusion they caused was incredible, as no one could figure out where the spells were coming from.
The training group continued to meet, and those whose families weren't already on the elves' list promised to try and convince their parents over the holidays. Harry's to-do list for the break was growing with each passing day, but he looked forward to being back at the Manor nonetheless.
The only thing of importance that came from the few days was that Harry shared his time on the other side with the twins. They immediately agreed to an oath of silence, and both were amazed by his story. When he told them the great Mr. Prongs had a message for them, they were overjoyed. The mischievous ideas James shared through Harry were genius, as the man had plenty of time to scheme.
Harry's only regret from the week was the promise he made to not ride the train home. He wanted the time with his friends, and the normalcy of the trip, but he knew everyone was right about the danger of the idea. The chance that someone bumped into him under the Cloak, or it being pulled off in the crowd, was just too high.
Instead, he and the Twins escaped the grounds around the scheduled time the Express would reach King's Cross, apparating to the platform to meet their friends on their arrival. Harry quickly found friendly faces, and moved towards the large block of families.
He was immediately pulled into a hug from Mrs. Weasley, which he returned gladly. He was happily surprised, however, when the woman was replaced by Emily Greengrass.
"Harry," the beautiful witch said as she pulled back. "I'm so grateful for what you did for Daphne. She's written about how happy the two of you are."
"We are," he agreed with red cheeks and a smile. "It's been great, but Daphne would've handled Draco if I hadn't."
"I'm thankful all the same," the woman said seriously, releasing him into the rest of the adults waiting to greet him.
"You do like her better," Daniel accused, shaking Harry's hand.
"Can you blame me?"
"Not even a little," he answered, smiling at his wife.
As he greeted everyone else, the train whistled its arrival. The group waited impatiently, each eager to see the students. Harry noticed Sirius and Remus appeared to be on guard, and knew the paranoia was necessary. He glanced around the platform, seeing similar expressions of anticipation on most faces, with one exception.
Lucius Malfoy stood nearby with his wife, glaring in their direction angrily. Harry shot him a wink when he caught the man's eye, causing him to avert his gaze in frustration.
As the train slowed to a stop, the doors opening slowly, Harry couldn't help moving forward. A familiar flash of blonde hair was among the first to exit, and Daphne nearly sprinted into his arms. Harry hugged the girl tightly, laughing in happiness. Even though it had only been a day, it just felt different after worrying about her on the train.
"I missed you," the girl said seriously as she finally released him.
"I missed you, too. Any problems during the trip?"
"Draco tried to get into our compartment a couple times, but he's an idiot. Our locking charm was more than enough to confuse his tiny brain."
"'Hi, Dad'," Daniel interrupted sarcastically. "'I've missed you and Mum desperately. Thanks ever so much for coming to pick me up'." Harry laughed at the man's mock frustration, and moved from between the girl and her parents.
"I did miss you," Daphne said as she hugged her parents. "But I get three weeks with you. This is my only chance with Harry."
"Who told you that?" Emily asked with a smirk.
"It's always just us for Christmas," she responded confusedly. "Except when we go to Granny's."
"And you think we'd be so cruel this year? You'll be seeing your boyfriend plenty," Emily countered with a smile.
Daphne quickly spun and beamed at Harry, catching him in her spell for a moment. He grinned back knowingly, having planned the time with Daniel.
"You knew!" she accused, swatting him on the shoulder. His reply was cut off as Astoria approached, her parents sweeping the younger girl into their arms.
"Of course I did," Harry answered, glad to have a little privacy.
"And you didn't tell me?"
"Daph, I'll never lie to you about anything, but surprises aren't lies. Your family is coming by for Boxing Day, and you and Astoria are welcome to join us for training or whenever you want. I'll add you to the wards."
Daphne hugged him again, smiling brightly at the idea.
"How far the Greengrass name has fallen," a nasally voice said from behind them.
Harry looked up to see Sirius already in position to protect the two, but cursed his lack of attention anyway. He released the girl and turned slowly to respond to the arrogant man.
"Lucius," Daniel replied instead, stepping in front of his girls and Harry. "I'll ask you kindly only once. Walk away from my family."
"Awful cocky, aren't we?"
"You can choose to view me as you'd like, but if you press this it will be from the flat of your back. Move along." Daniel took a menacing step towards the man, his impressive size towering over Malfoy's much smaller frame.
Harry watched as Draco's hand twitched from his position behind his father, and he willed the boy to draw his wand. Unfortunately, Lucius sneered once more at the group, and turned on his heel, pulling his son along. Narcissa allowed her family to move away, nodding politely at Harry before following.
"She's coming to lunch on Christmas Eve," Sirius whispered into his ear as he noticed the interaction.
"That'll be fun with the Grangers and Weasleys."
"She promised to steer clear if she can't be civil, though she seems… different. We can figure it out over the break. Go hug your friends, Ron seems upset you haven't yet."
Harry laughed, following the instruction before saying goodbye to the others. Before they made their getaway, Harry stepped closely to Daniel.
"Be careful the next couple days. I'll swing by Christmas night for the Fidelius, but I don't trust Malfoy. He's not gonna take your insults sitting down for much longer."
"Of course, Harry. Don't worry about us. I'll call Dobby at the first sign of any danger."
"I think 'worry' is just my default right now," he countered.
Harry hugged Daphne once more before following Sirius and Remus to the disapparition point. He turned to watch the larger group, not wanting to leave until they did.
"So glum, sugarplum," Sirius teased lightly, nudging his shoulder.
"I'm leaning towards just kidnapping every single one of them at the moment," he replied, gesturing to the departing group.
"They'll be fine," Remus said calmly from behind him. "They all know what to do."
Harry nodded, feeling much less certain than he'd like. As Amelia and Susan disappeared, the last of the group to do so, the anxious teen finally went home.
A/N: Just to be clear, I'm not currently planning on Harry turning towards muggle weapons. My original drafts were heading that way, but I decided against it, at least on a large scale. I've read stories that use real life weapons very well, and others that felt a bit forced. I'm not confident enough in my writing ability to be sure I'd fall into the former category, so I'm steering clear. Rorschach's Blot has a great one called Old Soldiers Never Die for those interested, and all of their stories are pretty great.