Chapter 33 Arthur's first operation, Hermione's Hogsmeade, talks and Peter Pettigrew alive?

There is a big part of the canon (/ canon complaint). I will announce it with:

**= start

***= end

7th February 1994, Director DMLE office, MoM

It was almost 11 am and Amelia was looking over some rapports over some minor cases that happened before and during the weekend. She was happy with the notification she got from Professor McGonagall about Hogsmeade and Quidditch match on the same weekend. She increased the already increased Auror presence for next weekend, not all Aurors were happy with it but because of the current situation, she didn't care. Also, most of those Aurors would be free the next weekend.

The second it is 11 am there was a knock on the door. Amelia said "yes?"

Emily her secretary opened the door looked in and said: "Director Bones, Mr. Arthur Weasley is here."

Amelia said, "great let him in."

Emily nodded and opened closed the door before it is opened less than a minute later by Arthur. Amelia said, "please close the door."

As soon as the door is closed Amelia said "great you could come, Arthur. First I want to wish you a belated happy birthday."

Arthur gave a smile and said "thank you, Amelia. I appreciate it maybe when there is a party next time you have a chance to be there as we didn't have a party because of Sirius Black."

Amelia smiled before saying "I would like that. Now I didn't just call you here to wish you a Happy Birthday and this present."

Arthur smiled when Amelia grabbed a present out of her desk but before he could accept it Amelia continued.

"I want to talk about your department. I have talked with the trainers and senior Aurors and we think you are ready to take on the new responsibilities. For now."

Arthur raised his right eyebrow and asked: "for now?"

Amelia nodded and said "as you probably could have figured when I proposed your new department in the wizengamot Malfoy was against it. Malfoy held the new year's party this year, but I think he used it to get in the good graces of Minister Fudge and also try to get support to do something against your department. My best guess is as he couldn't get disband your department he can vote for demising the budget or responsibilities as I used the responsibilities as one of the arguments to get the department as there was no other way at that moment. I don't know how long he would take to ask for a vote but even though not all are purebloods believe in pureblood ideology from the last war but many purebloods (or traditional half-bloods) don't like muggles, muggleborns or want nothing to do with the muggles and find the muggle liaison office already too much in contact with the muggles and that is not mentioning our Minister for Magic is in direct contact with the muggle prime minister."

Arthur nodded as he was agreeing and was wondering if Malfoy already had the needed vote. The dark families had a lot of power but they needed votes from the so-called light families or from the so-called neutral families (faction) to get the majority vote. Unfortunately, Arthur and Amelia knew that most people had a price Malfoy was more than willing to pay, so it was just a matter of time.

Amelia poured herself a cup of tea and offered Arthur one that he gladly accepted. Amelia drank a bit while looking through some parchment. After a few minutes while Amelia had finished her cup of tea she said "here I got it Arthur, your first larger operation. It is time-sensitive so I took the liberty to call all your Aurors for the 9th. It isn't a dangerous one, but as we don't know but must act quickly I have one squad of Aurors with a few trainees that are at your disposal besides your own Aurors. One of them you should know very well as the squad leader is Alastor Moody."

Arthur and Alastor were long-time friends almost as long as Dumbledore and Moody were that were very long-time friends.

Arthur looked the parchment over and saw that it was someone enchanting muggle items in a large quantity and selling them at muggle shops. All items are dangerous as the enchantments are unstable or the enchantments themselves are dangerous like enchanted to blow up at a random time or similar and dangerous for muggles. It was discovered by a squib that bought such an item and was able to get away before she was killed. The squib had a way to contact the magical world although she rarely used it.

Arthur asked, "are you sure it is just one person?"

Amelia said "we couldn't track the magical signature but from what we found it looked similar magical signatures although most were destroyed (items) so the reading of signature was very difficult and to be honest unreliable but it looks like one person is behind this. It is an attack on muggles, one of your new responsibilities and enchanting of muggle items not ministry regulated and allowed. We got from a buyer a location where he bought the items and saw many more items that he didn't buy."

Amelia grabbed another parchment and said "here is the building we think the person is making them. I let you and Perkins make a strategy but I think it is a good plan to first cast spells to prevent escaping with anti-apparition and anti-portkey wards before making sure that you are not seen by muggles. It isn't smart for you to attack without a good line of sight as you and your Aurors even though trained together, this for many the first op so maybe some wards to prevent the muggle from entering and seeing should be your second priority the other things how you would want is totally up to you and Perkins. You have at your disposal you, Perkins, you Aurors of end year two and with NEWT defence against the dark arts and that are 7 of them and one squad containing 4 Aurors and 3 Auror-trainees all last years."

Arthur nodded and started to think of an entering plan after the necessary wards are up. He had a plan will taking sips of his tea. After almost 30 minutes he had a plan and it seems Amelia as she said "well Arthur let me hear what you came up with. I had actually wanted to give you a day so Perkins could help you but when I saw you thinking I was wondering if you could think of a good plan."

Arthur had the plan to break and enter from to side from a combined force from him, his Aurors and the Auror squad provided by Amelia. The first two that enter from each squad will erect and shield while the others will fire to take out the suspect and if there are more try to take everyone in custody.

Amelia agreed with the plan as she doesn't suspect that the suspect or suspects will use any unforgivable. Not all wizards and witches that don't like muggles will use unforgivable and are Death Eaters.

Amelia said "it looks good. Try to keep yourself and the Aurors safe. I suspect Perkins will stay in your new office?"

Arthur nodded. He said that for a normal operation Perkins will stay in the ministry, not only to have someone with authority there but also if something went wrong the department wouldn't be leaderless. Of course most of the time Arthur will also be at the ministry but Amelia found that Arthur needed some experience and for the Aurors to follow his plan if he wasn't with the raid or the mission was considered too dangerous but he was the leader (most of the time by dangerous mission Amelia or head Auror would lead the mission from afar/ the ministry and the highest Auror would lead in the field the same goes if Arthur wasn't with the raid from his department) he needed to have experienced even if it was on the minor dangerous operations. Fortunately, Arthur agreed to that.

Arthur was happy with his new office. Amelia made one of the large unused offices on the floor into smaller offices so that Arthur and Perkins wouldn't stay in the office that was barely half as large as the shed at the Burrow and was by far, the smallest office in the whole Ministry of Magic.

13th February 1994, Hogsmeade

Hermione was in Hogsmeade, but what to do? Neville wasn't with her and Harry promised he wouldn't come. She couldn't go to Ron as she would buy candy for Ron's birthday and if she went with Ron he would eat it before it was given to him. Hermione thought about giving Ron a book maybe there is a cheap book about a Quidditch team called something with cannons.

I hope it is not too expensive or I need to use the Galleons Harry gave me if I needed it as I mentioned last time I almost have nothing left and my parents couldn't get Galleons as they can't enter Diagon Alley. They can only enter if they touch my skin by holding hands or a hand on my shoulder or arm but I must not be covered by clothing or my bushy hair. I should have believed the upper years, my parents offered to give me more but I thought it was enough. Katie had the same last year and at the end of the year she had no money left but I forgot that the last two trips to Hogsmeade were cancelled due to the attacks as all teachers were needed in the school for a chance the Basilisk would attack. But as I was petrified I didn't think about it also my mind was mostly on Harry that was right beside me most of the time. Unfortunately, he doesn't know I heard every word he said or saw him if he was in my eye field.

Hermione was walking towards the bookshop hoping to find a book from Ron and not getting a book for herself.

13th February 1994, Tomes and Scrolls, Hogsmeade

She was just inside the bookstore when she knew she was lost as the book store had new books she hadn't seen in Flourish and Blotts last summer meaning Flourish and Blotts didn't have these books last summer. The only thing that held her back was the money she needed to use to buy a couple of those books that were not hers even if Harry gave them to her for use if she wants or needs them.

She started to look through the bookcases looking for books she wanted but instead of buying to remember the name of the books to look for the coming summer when she was going to get her books for the fourth year.

She looks through the first bookcase and she already sees four books she wants to have, but as they are very new the price is a bit high even though Harry gave her more than twice the combined price of the four books. She was looking for books that she doesn't notice other people walking into the bookstore.

The few people that had walked in were looking at her in amazement but also with a smile and just barely resisting the urge to laugh or giggle. The people that had entered were all Hufflepuff girls from her year (Susan, Hannah, Megan and Sally-Ann) closely followed by the Patil twins. They were looking for her as they wanted to have lunch with her in the three broomsticks as they wanted to know how the friendship with Harry was and why even though she tolerates Ron she wasn't with him or Neville as none knew that Neville wasn't allowed to go anymore.

After almost an hour the girls were out of patience and Parvati said "who is trying to get her attention. Isn't this ridiculous? Fay and Lavender will be at the Three Broomsticks between 12 pm and 1 pm and if this keeps up much longer we won't be able to visit the other stores."

Most agreed with her. Everybody started to stare at Padma. Padma noticed and said, "why me?"

Hannah said "well Padma you are the only Ravenclaw here so the chance is that you are probably the closest one to her and 'her' books. It also is known that she should actually be a Ravenclaw and that therefore you are the best choice."

Padma sighed and said "fine but believe me if what Parvati said is even half true she has much more courage and bravery than it looks like, not to mention her loyalty to Harry which is not only a Hufflepuff trait but at least just as important in Gryffindor."

All the girls slowly nodded except Parvati. The Hufflepuffs thought about the line 'if that is true then it is no wonder she is in Gryffindor. Now I do want to know what Parvati told Padma about the last two years.'

Padma decided to add a small jab "the prime members are, of course, Harry and Neville. Both with so much honour, loyalty and chivalrously most can learn much from them to be at least and acceptably Gryffindor, right Parvati?"

All the girls including Padma and Parvati blushed heavily it looked like they were trying to be tomatoes. Parvati managed to nod without being too enthusiastic.

Padma walked towards Hermione. Hermione didn't bulge as she was reading a large tome. Finally, after almost five minutes Hermione looks at the pull she felt and saw Padma (mostly because of the Ravenclaw colours although Hermione noticed a very small difference barely noticeable that was different then Parvati).

Hermione said with a smile "hello Padma, are you also looking for a book?"

Padma smiled and said "actually no Hermione. We were looking for you (while pointing behind her to the group of girls) and thought maybe you want to spend time with us as Harry would probably not come as you are not with him. Also, you are here alone without Ron, no surprise there but also without Neville so..?"

Hermione heard every word but also read and said: "Neville isn't allowed anymore and I didn't want Harry to endanger himself after Sirius Black was in the tower."

All the girls heard and Hannah blurted out "Neville can't come? Because he isn't allowed anymore? Why?"

Hannah immediately blushed. Most girls smiled which Hannah didn't see as she was looking at the ground. She has a crush on Neville. The girls from Hufflepuff in her year had been teasing her but she didn't want the other girls to know … yet. Epically not Hermione. Not because she didn't trust Hermione but because Hermione was very close to Neville. Hermione was the closest witch to Neville although Ginny, Fay, Lavender and Parvati (which includes Padma) were getting closer. Hannah wasn't afraid of Hermione and Ginny as they were obviously in love or at least have a crush on Harry. The Patil twins also looked to be more interested in Harry than Neville but Fay and Lavender didn't know and she was seriously considering that Sally-Ann had an interest in Neville.

Hannah was trying to find a way to spend more time with Neville but the Herbology lessons she had with Neville were not the way. She hardly needed them now anymore as she started to pay attention in Herbology class more than before as she hoped it would impress Neville. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to work. Neville is like most boys too insecure but also too immature to notice apparently.

Hermione sighed as she didn't want to be disturbed and said "well Sirius Black was able to enter the tower but Sir Cadogan changed the password many times. Neville wrote down the password and then lost the parchment with the list of passwords. Sirius Black used that list to enter Gryffindor Tower. Professor McGonagall revoked his Hogsmeade visits for the rest of this year."

"I don't know if it was Professor McGonagall's decision but that was the only thing, no points were taken or detention so I think it was her decision, but at least Harry now has a good friend if you don't count Ginny although I do count her as one of his good friends are with him in Hogwarts. Anyway, I won't stay too long I was planning on looking for a present for Ron, buying some candy for Harry and Neville including some candy they can give to Ron for his Birthday and lunch at the Three Broomsticks before going back with the first group at 3 pm."

Parvati said "well Hermione let's buy some books and then we can go look at some of the other stores before we are going to lunch. We hoped you would like to join us."

Hermione was considering it. She thought if she goes with them the chance was smaller Ron will join her before buying the candy and hopefully they prevent her from using Harry's money.

Hermione grabbed a small book about a Quidditch team called the Chudley Cannons that was one of the new books but really cheap that even she could afford it with her own money. As she found the book very small (for her standards) she decided when she would go to Honeydukes to buy some candy for Harry and Neville to give to Ron she would buy some too as she would give a bit of candy and this book.

Padma said "Hermione I didn't know you were a fan of the Chudley Cannons. I would have guessed if you were a fan from a professional Quidditch team it would be the all-female Holyhead Harpies, most witches are."

Hermione said, "I am not a fan of a Quidditch team but this is the present for Ron."

Parvati said "really a book. I thought you would just like Harry and Neville to give Ron some candy."

Hermione shrugged and said "I always give books, but I chose this book about the Chudley Cannons as they are Ron's favourite team. I will buy some candy too as this book is very small."

The girls looked and found the book to maybe on the small side but still large enough but decided not to question it. Hermione started to walk to the register. Padma asked, "Hermione what about the other books?"

Hermione said disappointingly "I don't have enough money to buy them and I don't want to use the money Harry borrowed me."

Hermione thought 'well Harry gave it to me to use and said he didn't need it back. He said that I would just give back if I have something left at the end of this year, but that doesn't mean I am going to use it. I don't know if he has much money but seeing his clothes I would say he doesn't have much or not enough at least. I know his relatives don't really like him but if they had enough money would certainly buy him more fitting clothes and new shoes right? His shoes are kept together by duct tape or is it spellotape the magical kind. If I need to guess I think he would use spellotape now.'

While Hermione was thinking the girls said nothing as Hermione was biting her bottom lip most knew she was thinking about something and wouldn't hear a word they would say. Only one person was able to talk to her when she was like that and he was in Hogwarts right now.

Hermione slowly comes back to reality and sees the other girls looking at her and she said: "well let me pay for this and then we can go."

Susan said, "but what about the money Harry borrowed you is that enough?"

Hermione nodded and disappointingly said "more than enough but he gave it to me if I needed it. Although I want the books they aren't needed."

Susan asked one single question "Hermione do you like and want the books?"

Hermione nodded but didn't say anything.

Susan continued when she saw that and said: "So you can say they are needed for you to enjoy yourself and be happy with new books to devour?"

Hermione was considering Susan's words. She would be delighted but if Harry wouldn't agree with the need Susan said it was, she (Hermione) would be hurt much more than she would be delighted with the new books if Harry was mad. Harry was much more important and even though everything was almost back to normal if she broke his trust again she just knew this time it would be much longer if not forever and she would lose her best friend and the first and sole reason she stayed the first two years. Harry was still very important and without she would probably still leave but now she had more reasons to stay, but still if Harry left she would probably also leave.

Hermione didn't what to do. On one hand the books but on the other hand the much more important Harry Potter and being his best friend. The choice was easy she would choose Harry every time, 'but he said that I could use it if I needed it for something ….. everything' Hermione thought.

Hermione looked over the books and a bit reluctantly grabbed the largest tomes put those back and grabbed three large books that were new but relatively cheap. She bought them all and used her money for Ron's present while for the other three she used Harry's borrowed money making sure the money he gave for candy would be untouched for now.

Hermione was very nervous and if she was wrong hoped Harry wouldn't be too mad. She made her way out of the shop immediately followed by the girls.

13th February 1994, Hogsmeade village

Hermione was following the girls through many shops but didn't buy anything. Sure she saw some nice clothes in Gladrags Wizardwear she liked and secretively hoped Harry will also like them if she wears them but she didn't buy them as she didn't have the money and she was never very busy with the clothes or her appearance until last summer also the girls would tease her mercifully. Hermione just knew the girls will know why she would do it, but she wasn't sure about her own feelings and she was sure there are much more girls better looking than her like Susan with her mature body certainly for her age. Her body was at least 16 maybe even 17 years old well not her whole body but certainly her breasts.

Susan compared to Hermione meant that Hermione's breasts looked small while they were above average size for her age. Fortunately, her arse was almost the same as Susan maybe even a bit bigger but still. Hermione is very insecure mostly about her bushy hair, and her slightly large front teeth and when she looked at her year mates that had larger breasts (which were very, very few) she would also be insecure about her breasts.

Hermione and the other girls haven't noticed but the dog that was Sirius Black kept following them. He did it because the smell was Harry's. Sirius wanted to be close to protect her from the rat if the rat would try something. He didn't smell the rat nearby but that doesn't mean he isn't a danger to her. He trusted Professor McGonagall, Professor Flitwick, Mooney and Hagrid to keep Harry safe in Hogwarts while he would hunt the rat inside and outside of Hogwarts. Harry wasn't here as he followed her the moment she stepped into Hogsmeade.

Sirius doesn't trust Professor Dumbledore as he never said anything about the rat being the traitor while Dumbledore is like Voldemort a master Legilimens. He should have known Wormtail was the traitor I also wonder why he agreed to have Wormtail being the secret keeper. Even if Dumbledore didn't know he should have at least seen that Wormtail was acting weird when Dumbledore was around and never looked at him at least not when Dumbledore looked at him.

13th February 1994, Three Broomsticks

Hermione and the other girls walked into Three Broomsticks around 12:30 PM. The Three Broomsticks wasn't that packed there was enough place. They took a seat and Madam Rosmerta came to take the order. When they had ordered Parvati asked "well Hermione. We like to know how your relationship is with Harry at the moment?"

Hermione blushed slightly, she still wasn't sure what she felt but when she thought about being with Harry she got happy and had the same feelings she had when she meets him in the Leaky Cauldron last summer. She was very happy Harry saw her as a girl. She started to think more about Harry as a boyfriend. She wasn't sure if she had those kinds of feelings for Harry but she was also afraid if she did her best girlfriend Ginny would be so mad. As she was really seeing Ginny as his best girlfriend with she can talk about girl things, but only when she wanted and not like Parvati and Lavender almost every minute of every night before they would go to sleep.

Hermione doesn't mind sometimes but Parvati and Lavender were too much (at least right now), Ginny, on the other hand, talked sometimes girl talk but didn't want too much like Hermione didn't want to. Hermione noticed she wanted to talk about it more as she became older as was Ginny but every night was still too much. Ginny having only brothers was the reason she rarely had girl talk (especially as she lost her only girlfriend when she was 9 when Luna's mother died and Luna stopped coming over while Hermione was an only child).

Hermione said "what relationship? We are just friends."

The girls giggled beside Padma, she sighed before saying "what Parvati mean is what you are to Harry now and if you are back to what you were before Christmas."

Hermione knew she was trapped by the question and said "oh yes, of course, friendship is our kind of relationship. I think we are not where we were before Christmas but I think we are quickly getting back to being best friends. I am happy he apologized, but it was also my fault."

Susan said "well Hermione. I talked with Harry about why he was being so stupid. Daphne was also there and even Ginny the second time. We made him see reason and that Ron was wrong."

Hermione looked shocked and said, "what he didn't want to but you made him?"

Susan immediately said "no, no, no it wasn't like that. Harry did but Ron was being difficult I don't think he wanted to lose Ron's friendship, but before he made up he defended you against Ron out in the courtyard. I heard it from Daphne who saw it happening."

Hermione asked, "why did you talk with him twice?"

Susan said "the first time went wrong Daphne accidentally hit him and said he wouldn't stand for it and left before we could stop him. Tracey Davis and Megan tried to stop Harry but he shot a spell at Tracey's feet when she stepped forward when he said she shouldn't and he warned them the next would hit. The spell would also be stronger than the disarming spell. So Megan pulled her back. He didn't want to talk to us after and we tricked him by asking Fay to help us to help you."

Hermione said "why did you do that? I am happy it worked but it could also go wrong and think I asked for it."

Susan said, "don't worry Hermione I told Harry you didn't know."

Hermione said, "that doesn't matter he could still be mad."

Susan said "maybe you are right but it worked out and I honestly didn't think Harry would get mad as he said he felt your pain and you maybe didn't see but he missed you too. Ginny also said that he would have given the Firebolt to Professor McGonagall if you just asked maybe a day or two after or when she was back as he couldn't fly in the meantime, you just needed to wait until the happiness from getting it was decreased a bit. He agreed he would have listened to you and if it would make you happy he would have Professor McGonagall examine it as she did."

Hermione said in a small girl voice "really? He would if it would make me happy?"

Susan nodded and said "yes. It is Harry your best friend what would you think?"

Hermione bit her underlip for less than 5 seconds and said "I think you are right. It is Harry he probably would have listened, not like Ron."

Susan hesitantly asked, "Hermione I need to ask you a favour regarding Harry."

Hermione looked suspicious and asked "what favour?"

Susan said, "well we became friends in the summer like you know right?"

Hermione nodded and said, "yes we were already closer than acquittances and friendly and we became real friends and you also became real friends with Harry."

Susan nodded and continued "well I think Daphne slapping him made Harry mad at Daphne and me. I want to apologize as want Daphne but he still doesn't want to talk to us. We tried to apologize, the second time when Fay helped us talking to him but he didn't say that he accepted even though he said our first name again instead of calling us Miss Bones and Miss Greengrass in Daphne's case."

Hermione said "I don't know if I can. Believe me, I want to mostly because Harry made up thanks to you…."

Susan interrupts "he would have eventually we just managed to speed it up but you need to thank Ginny, Fay, Megan and Tracey as well. Ginny and Fay helped and Tracey and Megan made sure we weren't interrupted or that Harry could leave not that he knew. We knocked especially so they knew it was okay when we left."

Hermione said "anyway I can try but you still need to talk to him. I can try to also be there when you apologize or ask if he accepted as you already apologized."

Susan asked "really?"

Hermione nodded but did say "I will ask in a little while" and Susan looked relieved. Susan was happy that Hermione understand why they talked with Harry and that she would want to help. Now I need to find Daphne and Tracey. The good part is that they were almost always together. Daphne was watching Malfoy, but hopefully, he would keep his head down for the next two weeks in classes except for potions if Susan must believe how he was during the first two years in potions because Slytherin was with Gryffindor and Hufflepuff with Ravenclaw.

The rest of the time was more light taking about classes and the like. 15 minutes later Fay, Lavender, Su and Lisa. Lavender immediately started to gossip about what she had seen so far. It wasn't mean but more guessing so Hermione listened and sometimes added things. If it was mean like with Harry being the Heir of Slytherin last year she wouldn't have listened let's stand to add anything.

When everybody was done lunching they stayed inside for a bit talking and drinking. Hermione was rolling her eyes whenever Lavender and Parvati were talking about divinations and Professor Trelawney was right. Hermione was sure she was nothing but a fraud although she was still a Professor. Hermione was thanking Merlin nobody had found out about the time-turner she wears. Ginny did see sometimes two Hermiones especially when they should meet up in the library but also sometimes between classes. Fortunately, Harry and Neville hadn't found out like other girls from Gryffindor or her year. Ron didn't really care and some others from Gryffindor and the other houses also didn't really care.

Around 2 pm Hermione said, "I need to go to Honeydukes."

All the girls agreed to go there as most of them hadn't been to Honeydukes yet and wanted some chocolate and other candy. The dementors present was stronger and chocolate was helping with it not to mention their time of the month when they want chocolate and Honeydukes chocolate is the best.

They were talking about candy and around 02:47 pm everyone was done. Hermione was already walking to the end of the village where the path to Hogwarts was. There were already Aurors to prevent the Dementors from flooding the city. When it was almost 3 pm more Aurors were present at the path meaning that the group will soon leave. All the girls decided to join Hermione while going back to the castle.

Sirius whined quietly when he saw Hermione waiting for the group to leave. He hoped he finds the rat soon so he could talk to Hermione to know more about Harry not to mention some questions he had noticed like where Harry is, why he isn't here, what was the matter at Halloween and more importantly what her relationship is with Harry.

Susan was another point. Did Harry's magical guardian tell Harry about the marriage contract with Susan it doesn't look like it, but doesn't he have the right to know? Maybe Harry doesn't weir the heir ring but that doesn't mean he shouldn't know. The other question is does the magical guardian even know, but if I remember correctly Andi was third on the list after first me and second Alice and Frank (Longbottom). Andi would have certainly been asking the goblins of Gringotts about it as she is his guardian and the (magical) marriage contracts can be shown to his guardian if the guardians want. Andi will be so mad if she found out I agreed unknowingly with more marriage contracts for Harry especially as it is legal one of the ancient laws. But was Andi his guardian? He was doubting after everything he saw.

Sirius also wondered if Harry wears Fawn's Antlers. James wore them as did his father before him and James' grandfather before his father and James' Grandfather's father and so on. All the heirs from the Potter family from the moment they went to Hogwarts wear them (and before Hogwarts by the age of eleven). The Fawn's Antlers are two knives that Potter's heirs have the right as the most ancient and most noble house of Potter to wear. Harry has that right. One knife should be on the Potter belt he didn't see Harry wear and the other should be on his right ankle if he prefers right and is his wand hand. The knife on the belt was on the other side so if he needed it he could still use his wand in his right hand and the knife in his left, but the rat was more important so I can be there for Harry. I am sorry Harry but I can only be there for you if the rat is caught and I get my trial if needed.

13th February 1994, Entrance Hall, Hogwarts

Harry, Neville and Ginny had just entered the ground floor through the Giant Staircase and see the group of girls standing near the entrance to the Great Hall. Hermione saw Harry, Neville and Ginny approaching. She handed Harry and Neville two bags. The smaller with their own candy and the bigger one for Ron's birthday.

Hermione said "Harry can I talk to you for a few minutes … alone?"

Harry didn't know why but said: "sure Hermione."

Hermione smiled and grabbed his wrist. She dragged him to the Giant Staircase. She wanted to walk to the room where she and Harry made up but as she didn't know how the talk will go she decided against it and choose one of the empty classrooms on the first floor.

13th February 1994, first-floor unused classroom, Hogwarts

Hermione dragged Harry inside before she let go of his wrist. The moment before she let go she realize that she was kind of holding hands with Harry. She blushes immediately but she almost immediately turned around so as not to show Harry she was blushing that he would probably mistake her for being mad or sad. She wasn't mad or sad …. Well, not really sad as she was happy with the books. She would be sad if Harry was mad at her.

Hermione said, "Harry I am sorry but I used some of the money you loaned me for something that wasn't really essential."

Harry looks confused. He gave her the money as he didn't need it and couldn't use it if he didn't go to Hogsmeade what he didn't after Hermione asked him not to. He still has some money in his pocket that he didn't give to Hermione.

Harry said "okay Hermione, but you don't need to be sorry. You can use it how you like."

Hermione said "really Harry? I bought some books I like but are not needed for the classes."

Harry smiled and said "yeah it is okay Hermione. I knew you would like to buy some books so it is okay. I only ask if you have some of my money left at the end I could have it back. If you don't, that is no problem and I don't need back what you used."

Hermione smiled and tried to tackle him again. Harry somehow expected this and remained standing. Hermione hugged him. Harry tensed for a minute before relaxing but Hermione had already let go when she felt Harry tensing. Luckily she also felt him relaxing after letting him go. She was sad Harry was still having trouble but he relaxed much faster than earlier this year.

She thought 'if this continues Harry wouldn't tense anymore very soon. There is of course that he tensed to keep me from knocking him over, but I just couldn't control myself he really is my best friend ever. But do I want more? ….. wait, wait, wait…. why would it think like that?'

Harry shook Hermione to realise when he asked: "should we get back?"

Hermione blushed heavily but nodded as she didn't trust her voice.

25th February 1994, empty classroom fourth floor, Hogwarts

Harry had walked with Hermione when she needed to talk to him again. She wanted it last week but he didn't have time. Now he has it took almost two weeks but the Quidditch team finally got through to Oliver that continuing to train five times a week was too much. Oliver wanted to object but even he was having trouble keeping up with his studies and even Vanessa was getting mad as he also has less time for her.

When they finally got through to him especially when Vanessa threatened to break up with him he continued to have no time for her. Oliver relented and said that training would be twice one week and the next week three times and then twice again and so on, so on until the last game. The team agreed and the first free night was tonight. When he left he saw a happy looking Vanessa in Wood's lap facing the fire. He hoped he could actually have a training session with Lupin but Professor Lupin let him know he couldn't until next week and he will send him a message if he could find time between all the extra work for the OWL and NEWT students.

Harry took a seat on a chair and Hermione immediately said beside him in a chair. Hermione said, "Harry I have a question and it is important."

Harry said, "sure Hermione what is it?"

Hermione said, "well when I was in Hogsmeade Susan said that she talked to you twice about our fight…"

Hermione gets interrupted when Harry said "Hermione I wanted to patch things really I did. She said you didn't know the first time and I believed her. Please believe me I wanted I just didn't want to lose Ron as a friend even Neville said I was being stupid."

Hermione said "Harry I understand. I lost you my best friend I am sure it would be difficult to lose your best friend."

Harry said, "I already did when I got mad at you."

Hermione got tears in her eyes from happiness and asked amazed "I am your best friend?"

Harry said, "yeah we are still friends after what I just said."

Hermione hugs him again. Harry doesn't hug back but he barely tensed which makes Hermione happy. Hermione let go of Harry and said "of course we are. I hoped I was still your best friend but I just thought I couldn't. What is Ron then?"

Harry said "he was … is my best mate tied with Neville though. The other boys are friends and before you ask Ginny is becoming a very good friend as is Fay and of course the whole Quidditch team even Vanessa is being nice. "

Hermione smiled and certainly knew what Susan said was right if she just waited to ask Harry about the broom he would just like he didn't go to Hogsmeade to make her happy.

Hermione said "well then I am very glad about that. Anyway, the reason I ask you to be here is if you have forgiven Daphne, Susan, Megan Jones and Tracey Davis as I heard what happened the first time you talked to her."

Harry said "well I am still not happy about what happened the first time, but to be honest after the second time and making up with you I have forgiven Susan, but also Megan and Tracey as they were there for their friends. Daphne, on the other hand, hit me twice."

Hermione knew that as Susan told her before. Hermione didn't know if she could make Harry forgive Daphne at least now. Harry will not hold a grudge for what she did as it was only two slaps. Malfoy has done much worse and even if Malfoy had stopped Harry would have gotten over it Malfoy is arrogant and a git, but this is not about Malfoy. It is about Harry trying to forgive Daphne.

Hermione did wonder why Daphne talked to Harry to forgive her. Susan is kind and will always try to help (partly why she is in Hufflepuff), but why Daphne? Sure we talked in class and she was kind of nice if you like past her cold demeanour she normally only use against boys and girls she doesn't like and that are mostly girls from other years and houses. She actually likes her dormmates (Pansy, Millicent, Lily Moon and Tracey) at least that is what she said once.

Hermione asked "Harry could you forgive her is she explaining herself or do you just need time to forgive her?"

Harry said "I don't know. I don't even know if I can."

Hermione asked "what would it be Harry. I am certain of the latter but maybe if she really said sorry could you try?"

Harry said, "I could try."

Hermione shouted, "come on in."

The door opens and Susan, Hannah, Megan, Tracey and Daphne walk in. Harry jumps up immediately and has his hand on his wand but he didn't draw his wand …. yet.

Hermione noticed his movement and said, "Harry please just hear them out and remove your hand from your wand."

Harry was considering Hermione's words when Hermione added: "trust me."

Harry immediately removed his hand from his wand as he trusted her without question as she does with Harry. When the girls saw Harry removing it they all relaxed and knew it was a smart move to have Hermione with them.

Harry said, "okay I will listen but I don't promise anything."

The girls minus Hermione nodded. Susan was the first to speak and said "Harry I am really sorry for lying to you the second time and please believe me the first time I didn't know Daphne was going to hit you, I cannot apologize to her but she will tell me why she did it. I want to apologize for what I did. Could you please accept that?"

Before Harry could answer Susan Daphne started talking "Po- Harry I am sorry for hitting you. I didn't mean the first one. I what to slap you but on the other hand glare in your eyes so I wanted to grab your cheek so you couldn't look away."

Daphne bushed but managed to continue "unfortunately as both thoughts went through my head it kind of collided and that is why I unintentionally hit you. The second was a more spur of the moment thing, but I am sorry. Could you please accept my apology also for lying and using Fay the second time?"

Before Harry could answer again Daphne said "one more thing Ha-Harry I want to thank you for helping Astoria my little sister almost two and a half weeks ago. You really saved her as I must believe her and know how McLaggen is. Most would have ignored her or even kicked her books away that had ended on the floor."

Harry nodded his head and said "no problem Daphne. McLaggen is a git, but I can understand that being a first-year being alone can be scary and as she is a first-year she has done nothing wrong to me or my friends so I decided to help her."

Harry did it for two other reasons but he didn't want Daphne to be mad at him again.

When Harry said her name instead of Miss Greengrass and that made her smile that she wasn't able to hide but it almost immediately disappeared but Harry like the girls saw it. Harry must admit that it looked just like Astoria's smile but still a bit different as they look alike but had small differences in face, eye-colour and Astoria's hair was a shade darker than Daphne's blond hair but Astoria was still blond.

Harry said "if it makes you both feel better Susan and Daphne it is okay I will accept it and maybe it was also a bit my fault. Megan and Tracey you only wanted to help your friends so no problem I can understand that. As I accept their apology I don't need it from you as like I said you only wanted to help your friend. I do am sorry I almost hit you Tracey and kind of threatened you."

Megan only smiled. Tracey said "it is okay Harry. I can understand but I am happy you at least gave a warning before really hitting me. For what it is worth I already forgave you as Daphne told me what had happened. I hope you don't mind."

Harry shrugged and said "I kind of expected that as you two are best friends. I think Astoria also know most if not all of it."

Daphne nodded with a small blush.

Hannah said "Harry I hope you don't mind me getting Neville away the first time. I really needed help with Herbology and it was nice talking with him. I wasn't there the second time as I followed Neville to make sure he didn't go looking for you."

Harry gave a smile to all the girls and said "Hannah that is no problem Neville was happy he could help someone with Herbology. I think everything is cleared up and I do want to thank you for talking to me. I am happy I am best friends with Hermione again and I am happy we talked about this."

The smile made almost all the girls blush (except Hannah while Tracey and Daphne tried to hide it). Megan was blushing but was surprised by it.

Harry said, "I need to do some homework so if you don't mind I really need to go."

Hermione said "oh yes me too. Goodbye."

Hermione left with Harry and after they were done the girls talked a bit about how they were happy everything did work out. Daphne and Susan had trouble not showing them being too happy as their bright future was a real possibility again with the man they loved, but they knew that the chance she was one of two as Susan and Daphne needed to continue their line but didn't know from each other was very small.

They knew Ginny liked Harry but Hermione was also showing signs if you looked closely. Susan and Daphne didn't say anything about that but knew for themselves. Daphne noticed Tracey's blush even though she tried to hide it. Daphne was considering talking to Tracey but that should be in private. After they were done talking everyone went towards the ground floor as it was nearing curfew Hufflepuffs Common Room was on the ground floor and Slytherins Common Room is in the dungeon. When they reached the ground floor the group Hufflepuffs and Slytherins both went their own way ( to their Common Room Entrance).

11th March 1994, Gryffindor Third-year Boys dormitory, Hogwarts

It was night, but everyone was asleep beside Harry. The training with Professor Lupin has only been one time a week for the last couple of weeks. Professor Lupins has needed all the extra time to prepare the OWL and NEWT students for their tests especially because last year Lockhart barely learned them something. Quirrell was maybe bad but you at least learned something although it wasn't much from him not to mention it was almost impossible to understand him through the fake stuttering.

Harry was awake as he knew that Sirius Black was close by. He hasn't told anyone but he had trouble sleeping after the night Sirius Black managed to come into the Gryffindor Tower and almost hurt Ron. Also, he had seen the so-called grim many times throughout the year, but somehow he remembers it and doesn't feel afraid but more like he knows it wouldn't hurt him and even would be kind to him.

Harry also noticed that Hermione appeared to have class but also another class and managed to be at them both. He tried to bring it up but she would get nervous so he decided to drop it especially as Ginny needed his help whenever he brought it up. If it was dangerous or needed to know Hermione would tell him. Neville said he noticed the same but as Harry let it drop so would he. Ron doesn't seem to see it but that was to be expected as the moment he leaves the classroom he doesn't want to talk about it he even remembered what was the class about.

Harry used the time to read the books he had bought or the ones from the chamber. Medusa seemed to be very patient with him. Harry didn't want to give her false hope but he remembered that venomous snake normally regrows their fangs when they lose them or at least that is what the books about reptiles say.

There are only three big differences between venomous snakes and Medusa. First is venomous snakes have venomous chambers to store their venom (poison) Medusa does not. Secondly, Medusa has more teeth than just fangs while venomous snakes only have fangs and thirdly also lastly Medusa is a magical creature the venomous snakes that regrow their fangs are not.

After an hour he decided he needs to clear his head. Harry cast Tempus and sees that is past 2 am. He decided to look at the Marauders' Map. He suddenly sits up he sees a name that is impossible on the second floor of Hogwarts as far away as possible from Moaning Myrtle's lavatory is a person that was murdered by Sirius Black his …. godfather. He sees the name Peter Pettigrew on the map, but how? Harry frons he needs to know. He grabs his invisibility cloak and his wand before silently leaving the dormitory and Gryffindor Tower making his way to the second floor. He makes use of a lesser-known passage from the seventh floor to the sixth floor and a secret passage from the fifth floor to the third floor as it would bring him closer to the dot.

11th March 1994, Hogwarts

Harry used Lumos the whole way down. HE reaches the second floor. He takes off his invisibility cloak while his wand was still lightened up because of Lumos. He keeps looking at the map and he sees he closes in. When he reached the corridor where Peter Pettigrew was supposed to be he stopped as the dot was moving towards him. Harry keeps his eyes on the map. He looks in front but he doesn't see anybody even though he could barely see 5 yards ahead of him.

The dot comes closer and closer. It was weird as the dot sometimes stopped and wasn't moving straight but from side to side in the corridor. Harry Potter and Peter Pettigrew draw closer and closer.

Harry squints again toward the end of the corridor. Down at the map. Pettigrew moves quickly down the corridor. Suddenly the dot speeds up. Twenty yards away. Ten. Only seconds away before he should be able to see him his wand is trembling in his hand. Harry glances from the map to the dark corridor ahead, again and again.

But nothing then... as the two dots are about to collide... he immediately looks up, heart in his chest... and meets... himself reflected in a mirror. He barely managed to contain himself and doesn't shoot one of the spells he learned from Professor Lupin.

He looks startled and then glances back down at the map. Pettigrew has moved past him, but how? Confused, Harry lightened wand moves along the walls to search for a way that went past him.

Suddenly Harry hears "Watch it there, boy!"

Harry jumps up from the sound. But it's only an old man in a painting, scowling in the glare of Harry's wand light when his light goes close by the painting. On the map, Pettigrew continues to move away. He hears a sound coming from the ground and said "Scabbers…?"

He remembers the weird acting this year from the rat. He looks at the map and sees Pettigrew's dots moving away from him. Harry wants to follow the dot leaving Scabbers alone as he isn't Peter Pettigrew obviously but immediately stops. The wand moves across the parchment and finds another dot. Approaching fast the dot is Severus Snape.

Harry immediately says "mischief managed!" followed by "Nox" to extinguish his wand while stashing and hiding the map away. Just a few seconds later he looks into the harsh glare of Snape's wand and eyes.

Professor Snape says "Potter. What're you doing wandering the corridors at night?"

Harry said "I was... I was... "

He couldn't think of anything and decided to say the first thing that came to his mind "I was sleepwalking..." with a goofy smile.

Snape sneers "how extraordinarily like your father you are, Potter. He, too, was exceedingly arrogant. Strutting about the castle."

Harry interrupts Snape "my dad didn't strut. Nor do I. Now, if you don't mind, I'd appreciate you lowering your wand."

Snape eyes Harry coldly and could barely contain himself of not cursing him right her. Snape slowly lowers his wand.

Snape knew Harry was up to something. He said, "turn out your pockets" hoping to find something to dock points and give him detention until the end of the year.

Harry doesn't move, eyes still boring into Snape. Snape thinks I got him he got something on him.

Snape menacingly says again almost shouting "turn out your pockets!"

Finally, Harry obliges. When Snape sees the map, Snape's eyes glitter and twinkle.

Snape sneers "and this. What might it be?"

Harry shrugs and says "a spare bit of parchment."

Snape says "really... we shall see about that." Snape raised his wand and touched the parchment and said: "reveal your secret!"

To Harry's horror, words begin to appear. Snape studies him, a sadistic half-smile on his lips. Turns the map his way.

Snape wants to know what it said and orders, Harry, to read it. Harry only barely contains his smile when he started to say "Messrs. Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs offer their compliments to Professor Snape and…"

Harry stops reading as it was almost too much not to laugh out loud. Snape said loudly "go on."

Harry's smile widened and said, "and request that he keep his abnormally large nose out of other people's business."

Snape's smile drops and his eyes stop glistering and twinkling. Snape has enough no one would make fun of him. Snape said, "Why you insolent little…"

Snape got interrupters when he heard Professor Lupin say "Professor...?"

Snape turns around. He sees Lupin standing in the shadows. Snape's smile dropped even more if it could. Snape says "well, well. Lupin. Out for a little walk in the moonlight, are we?"

Professor Lupin had already seen Harry but tried to look surprised and asked "Harry? You all right?"

Snape knew about the friendship between Harry's father and Professor Lupin and sneers "that remains to be seen. I've just now confiscated a rather curious artefact from Mr. Potter. Take a look, Lupin. This is supposed to be your area of expertise."

Professor Lupin takes the parchment, which now displays a rather unflattering caricature of Snape and a pair of potions and Professor Lupin tried to not laugh. Snape sneers when he sees the caricature and says "clearly, it's full of Dark Magic."

Professor Lupin pretends to be thinking before saying "I seriously doubt that, Severus. It looks to me as if it merely insults anyone who tries to read it. I suspect it's a Zonko product. Nevertheless, I shall pursue any hidden qualities it may possess. As you say, it's my area of expertise. Come, Harry."

A sneer curdles the corners of Snape's lips and he hates Harry even more. Snape thinks 'watch out Lupin you cannot continue baling Potter out or a rather embarrassing secret can, unfortunately, be known by the school if someone may slip it and I feel rather loose lips these days.'

As soon as they were out of Snape's line of sight and out of earshot Professor Lupin is fuming inside. Harry walks aside a fuming Lupin, who grips the map fiercely.

Professor Lupin said trying to control his anger " I don't know how this map came to be in your possession, Harry, but I'm astounded that you didn't turn it in. Did you ever stop to think that this in the hands of Sirius Black ….. is a map to you?"

Harry walks silently. Lupin can barely contain his anger as his anger is increasing.

Professor Lupin says rather hotly "your father didn't care to abide by rules either well didn't abide by most rules but did the abide by the rules for the more important things. But he and your mother did give their lives to save yours. Gambling their sacrifice by walking about the castle unprotected especially at night, with a killer on the loose, strikes me as a poor way to repay them."

Professor Lupin sighs deeply to let go of his anger before saying "I won't cover up for you again, Harry. I like you and was a good friend of your parents, but I at least expect you to be careful to not let your parents' sacrifice be in vain."

11th March 1994, defence against the dark arts classroom, Third-floor Hogwarts

Professor Lupin enters his office, tosses the map on his desk, and begins to sort through some papers. Harry lingers briefly in the doorway, absently eyes the waxing moon that glimmers beyond the window, and then starts to turn away. Harry suddenly stops.

Harry said "Professor. Just so you know, I don't think the map always works. Earlier, it showed someone in the castle. Someone I know to be dead."

Professor Lupin was only half-listening and absently said: "and who was that, Harry?"

Harry simply said "Peter Pettigrew."

Professor Lupin hesitates before he returns to his papers. Professor Lupin said "very well. I'd like you to return to your dormitory now. Oh, and Harry? Don't take any detours."

As Harry looks back, Lupin slowly taps the map.

Professor Lupin with a gentle smile says "if you do. I'll know."

Let's end here for now. I went a bit overboard with what I wanted and needed to put in this chapter which is why it is a bit of a long chapter.

In the next chapter we will see how Arthur's first operation was done (probably in flashback with an after-action report) and Hermione's classes started to take a toll on her sanity and she drops the first class.

Not forgetting Easter is coming in the story. Hermione will go home. Harry stays as will most of the Weasley and Neville decides to stay against his Grandmother's preference but when he tells her why she agreed reluctantly.

If words counts allow it, we hear about Buckbeak's trial and in May the last Hogsmeade visit and last Quidditch match.

Please read and review or PM is also possible.