Chapter 38 Dumbledore's plans, Lucius pushes and relive the night
15th January 1994, Headmaster office, Hogwarts
Dumbledore was angry. Dumbledore thought "it seems that Black was in Gringotts sometime in the last week. He has dismissed my choice for the Potter and Peverell seat. Those were two important votes for my plans. Harry needs to trust me so he trusts them even worse Gringotts made sure the Wizengamot knew of the dismissal and that for now no proxies have been chosen by the Regent Potter. Damn you, Black.'
Dumbledore knew it was Sirius Black he was after all the real regent Potter, but the wizengamot thought it was Dumbledore like most thought safe a very, very few. Ragnok and Bonecrusher know it as they were present for the will of James and Lily as was Sirius Black. Dumbledore tried to persuade them and even influence them (James and Lily) but nothing worked not even the loyalty potions. Sirius is the rightful Regent Potter and Harry's magical guardian. Dumbledore was there when the will was made and he wasn't even on the list to become Harry's magical guardian. James and Lily were smart as they had so many guardians that it would be difficult for even Voldemort to kill them all. Harry's magical guardian would also become Regent Potter as long as his or her name was one of the guardians for Harry. Dumbledore forged it for the wizengamot but Gringotts wasn't fooled. He sealed the real will as Chief Warlock because he could and he needs it to stay closed for the Greater Good.
As Ragnok and Bonecrusher knew he couldn't get large amounts of money out of the Potter vault to pay for his plans, but he still got some money as long as he says he used it for Harry's upbringing as James and Lily had in their will an amount of money was for Harry's upbringing annually with a few exceptions to get a little more that he didn't know. The normal annually amount is more than enough for Harry. He tried to get more but he didn't know how but he knew there must be a way. Regent Potter would be able to have limited access to the Potter family vault but he never could as Ragnok and Bonecrusher didn't let him as he isn't the rightful regent.
He didn't like the Dementors on his borders but letting them kiss Black isn't the worst thing to happen it is after all for the greater good. Dumbledore hoped that Lupin would contact Sirius what he didn't ... at least not yet he hopes. Dumbledore hoped he could read Lupin's mind but the wolf in him protected his mind that he couldn't break in subtly. He could try to break in but Lupin would know that and he needed his trust for now. Dumbledore wasn't even sure if he could break to read his mind if he tried. Werewolves are very protected against all mind magic even the Imperius curse requires a lot of power to be effective, the same is with memory charms as the Werewolves have the beast inside their mind to protect them.
31st January 1994, Headmaster office, Hogwarts
Dumbledore was unhappy. He had learned from some paintings that Harry and Hermione were friends again if not very good friends. He also heard Lupin say it to McGonagall during dinner as he had the third year today. He was unhappy with the big smile Lupin, McGonagall and Hagrid had, most of the other professors had a least a small smile beside Severus of course. He needed to think of a plan to get her away from Harry. Hermione cannot be his wife, that wouldn't be good and wouldn't work for the Greater Good maybe he needed to 'convince' Molly Weasley to let Ginny be with Harry. The girl needs to be pureblood, but the parents need to believe him or even better support him as Molly does even though they have no wizengamot seat. Susan Bones as an example wasn't as Amelia didn't revere him like most do and doesn't support him without thought like many from the light families do.
He had advised Augusta before Hogwarts to make Neville not talk about the alliance between their families. He didn't know that Alice was Harry's godmother. Augusta reluctantly agreed as Dumbledore told that Harry didn't want to know too much about his house as it would remember him too much about his dead parents. Augusta understood but wasn't happy about it. She wanted Dumbledore to tell about his family and house, especially the importance and the alliance with House Longbottom.
Augusta didn't tell Dumbledore that Alice was Harry's godmother but made him promise without a vow to tell Harry about his house and family but he hasn't and wasn't planning to do it, it was for the Greater Good after all. Dumbledore had wondered who Harry's godmother was but as she never came forward he didn't mind as his godmother would have by know by now if she was able or still alive. He only knew from Sirius as Sirius was the proudest after Harry was born and he was called godfather, he told everyone that wanted to listen beside the Death Eaters of course. If you didn't know it was James and Lily's child you would think it was Sirius's son.
10 February 1994, Malfoy's Manor, Wiltshire, Southern England
Lucius was enraged when Greengrass still didn't have accepted his offer to betroth Daphne to Draco to be his Lady Malfoy. He used much money to buy out several suppliers, especially the more expensive and rare items. It cost a lot of money for those that accepted. The ones that didn't accept were threatened and in response, they 'offered' to limit their export to England.
The Greengrass business has lost a lot of clients that use his business to import to Britain and therefore has lost a lot of clients that buy those things. Lucius has supplied a few clients that he stole from Greengrass so have at least some of the money he used back although mostly are semi-legal companies and also sold to some illegal companies that Greengrass barely did and only the worst quality the Greengrass had. Lucius hoped it would pressure Jacob but apparently, it didn't as he had sent Jacob he heard of the unfortunate shortage and maybe could help if he signed the contract between Draco and Daphne and talk for Astoria for House Black.
If that wasn't bad enough his son has sent an angry message that Potter got a Firebolt and he wanted one too.
Lucius thought 'I already bought the whole Quidditch team nimbus 2001 last year to secure his place on the Slytherin Quidditch team. With the amount of gold used to put pressure on Greengrass's business and the money I need to thwart Weasley's department, I don't have the money to buy him one. It was also impossible as most national teams and professional teams were still waiting on their order for Firebolts. It was known if you ordered one that it should take at least until this summer to have a chance to get one. I don't know how Potter could get one.'
He refused Draco's demand and even wrote back that the rumour mill was wrong. Nobody from the gossipers had seen the Firebolt but somehow it got in the rumour mill. This bit of rumour/ gossip was the fastest news in a long time as the last was Harry saving Ginny at the end of their second year. Before the day was out everybody in Hogwarts knew about Harry Potter supposedly have a Firebolt.
28th February 1994, Greengrass Manor, Wales
Jacob was in his office looking over the last month about his business … well, his family's business. He had lost many clients as 'Lucius's threat was real, not that I thought it wasn't when he made it' Jacob thought.
Jacob was happy with House Black and House Potter money as it helps to neutralize Lucius's threat for this month, not completely but enough. He now needed to find some other suppliers as his old suppliers were hesitant to sell him the normal amount or have driven the price up that he would never make a profit from the goods. Unfortunately, most other suppliers couldn't get him the amount he needed as they had other buyers in other countries and even some in Britain.
He had hoped that the rare and expensive goods from the Black and Potter farms would cover most of the loss of money but unfortunately, they needed to restart production and everything else they needed for some farms it was creatures they needed. The House Potter farms were abandoned when James and Lily died as the workers weren't paid and house elves disappeared. If Jacob must guess the house-elves were caught and sold somewhere far across the world as they weren't bonded anymore when James and Lily died in opposition to house-elves in manors that went to the heir.
The House Black farms weren't much different. He got some goods from the farms but they weren't good quality as they were old and most products have putrid. He could sell these old goods and he got a reasonable price for the old goods that cannot become putrid. He hoped the next time the quality was better or he needed to get a meeting with Lord Black, but he hoped they were better as they also needed to restart after it had been abandoned when Orion Black died in 1979 and some others worked until Walburga Black died. Jacob didn't think that Sirius could be Lord Black as Gringotts wouldn't allow convicted wizards and witches to take the Lordship unless they served their prison sentence and sometimes goblins would allow it if the crime wasn't a crime to goblin laws, but those things rarely happen.
He saw the money he lost and the many clients that left him until he gets his business in order so he can get enough supply and get a huge discount for the loss of income they will endure. Jacob didn't know that most were actually lured away by Malfoy if not threatened.
Jacob looked the letter from Malfoy over. When Lucius wrote to talk about Astoria for House Black would mean Lucius would demand it and wouldn't help him if he didn't agree. Jacob would have never accepted the offer even if he didn't get the betrothal contract between Daphne and Draco Malfoy. He was happy he also couldn't do it as both were already betrothed. Daphne to Harry Potter and the other Heir Back who isn't Malfoy although Lucius still thought so. Jacob almost wanted to rub Lucius's face in it that Astoria would be Lady Black but Draco wouldn't me Lord Black, not even heir Black not to mention that Daphne is betrothed to Draco's school nemesis and Lucius also didn't like him as much as his son if not more: Harry Potter. Jacob, however, decided not to do it as Harry didn't know about it yet and it would bring him in danger also Regent Potter ask to wait and acknowledgement from their side. Jacob did hope that their names were protected in the book that is deep in the Ministry of Magic about the betrothal contract that was accepted. Not many knew it existed or still worked but he knew it did.
5th March 1994, Ministry of Magic, London
It was time for the monthly wizengamot meeting. Like normal not everybody was present there were a little more than half that is present which is more than normal. The truth is that more were at the monthly meetings if there was news about Sirius Black especially as the Daily Prophet was more guessing about his location and what he is planning to do after killing Harry Potter than real information.
Behind the scene, Malfoy was paying bribes but he knew he didn't have enough support yet not even with the houses that would vote with him to already re-evaluate Weasley's department inside the department of magical law enforcement and how the first missions have gone.
He knew Arthur wasn't an Auror and he thought bad of him. Lucius thought 'there is no way that the poorest blood-traitor could lead a department. I am sure his department is a failure but Director Bones would never tell that. Just a few more votes and I can get a vote to re-evaluate this failure and phoney so-called (sub) department. Not mentioning he isn't smart enough to lead phff…. his so-called Aurors.´
With his so-called Aurors Lucius rolled his eyes. Lucius was trying to listen but nothing was important as Malfoy was only looking at one person. That person is Lord Jacob Greengrass. He hasn't re-acted at his threat after all his business was having a hard time no doubt and he (Lucius) 'fortunately' has some products Jacob's business normally imports. He hasn't gotten a reaction to his letter and Jacob didn't look troubled. Lucius needs to talk to him to make him sure he wouldn't take no for an answer or Jacob would lose even more suppliers and customers. Lucius smiled with himself he would eventually get the yes one way or the other.
Finally, the meeting was done and he sees a couple of members leave. Dumbledore was one of the first as he wanted to return immediately to Hogwarts. Jacob was still in the room talking with a little group. Lucius easily recognized Amelia, but also Madam Longbottom, Lady Abbot for once and Lord Davis among others. Arrogant as always likes he owns the world he steps up to Lord Greengrass.
He interrupts Lady Abbot who was talking about something. Malfoy didn't care so he didn't listen.
He says "Lord Greengrass I like to have a word with you."
Jacob turns to Malfoy. Jacob is a few inches larger than Malfoy and almost needed to look down at him. Jacob looks and says "ah Lord Malfoy I have nothing to say to you so I don't see the need to."
Malfy asks "maybe we can discuss this in private?"
Jacob says with a voice that means his decision is final "that will not be needed."
Malfoy decided to counter and force him into a private conversation so he can threaten him without the director of the DMLE standing with them
Lucius doesn't let himself be denied like that and says "Lord Greengrass I insist. I send you a letter and unfortunately didn't receive an answer yet."
Malfoy thought that Jacob would never tell anyone about the content but Jacob knew like a true Slytherin to play other Slytherins and Lucius is a 'good' Slytherin but not the best. Jacob knew how to play Lucius and the others without getting too many problems. Jacob knew Isabel would be proud if she had even an ounce of Slytherin in her that she has not, but that made Jacob love her even more.
Lord Greengrass says "oh about Astoria becoming Lady Black for your son. Well, I thought that my non-reply gave you enough information that I do not agree."
Malfoy says "Lord Greengrass it was only a suggestion. Daph…"
Jacob glares at Malfoy and he says "I didn't sign the contract and I never will so this conversation is over."
Malfoy says "are you sure Lord Greengrass. Just let us talk about it again as I recently got some supplies that I heard you have a shortage from which lost you a few clients. I am sure with my supply you can salvage most if not all of your loss to make sure your business and your family don't go bankrupt. I can understand that your daughters are afraid they can't go to Hogwarts anymore just let us talk and I can make sure that they will. Of course, I want something in return."
Jacob thought 'it may be difficult if Malfoy continues but even if Daphne and Astoria weren't betrothed he would never sign them over to Malfoy. I am happy Regent Potter signed Daphne's marriage contract. The Potter Family is one of the few families that can take on the Black Family. Daphne can go to school as the future Lady Potter House Potter will pay her tuition for Hogwarts if I go bankrupt. House Black can do the same for Astoria although both House Potter and House Black can decide if they continue after the OWL's or not. House Potter may even be able to get Astoria away from House Black if Astoria doesn't like the Heir Black, but that is for another time. He would not talk with Malfoy as his mind is made up before it even began.'
Jacob says "as I said before Lord Malfoy. This conversation is over and I will never agree or accept your contract certainly not the letter you sent later although you should already know I don't sign the contract you have been trying to force me to sign since June last year."
Malfoy asks "are you sure? Like I said during the new year party no respectable house will offer you a mar…."
Jacob says "no."
Malfoy says "Daphne will be …."
Jacob says "no Lord Malfoy and that is final."
Malfoy looks angry and decided to admit defeat for now but that just means he needs to push harder and maybe Draco can push her to accept after all she is a fourth-year next year and that means she is only protected by a marriage contract as the power for her house (her family) will be quickly crumbling around her and her sister. Maybe get Davis's daughter as a mistress so she will be a little bit protected.
Jacob almost wants to laugh out loud right in Malfoy's face as Daphne and Astoria will never be in his pompous arse or his son's pompous arse hands.
Jacob doesn't know what is happening in the Slytherin Common Room since Voldemort was in power and especially when Snape became head of Slytherin as he graduated before Voldemort got power in Slytherin. Jacob graduated the same year as James Potter (1978). In the next school year, the power of Voldemort in Slytherin began and when Snape 1981 become potions teacher and head of Slytherin house he let everything continue even when Voldemort was gone by Harry Potter although it was slightly altered to make sure nobody will talk about it.
Augusta, Amelia, Sarah and Paul respectively Madam Longbottom, Madam Bones, Lady Abbot and Lord Davis have been quiet until now but were wondering what this was about and what Jacob's daughter has to do with it although all have an idea, it was centred on Jacob's (family) business to get Daphne and Astoria.
Amelia wanted to know more and asks "Jacob why don't you come home with me maybe ask Isabel over as it almost sounded like Lucius threatened you. I would like to know more."
Jacob was seriously considering it even though it was house business that normally would be shared unless you have an alliance like the Longbottom's and the Potter's that they would die for each other to protect the others secret.
Jacob didn't want to make it harder than his life would be in the coming months if not years. Jacob says "I need to talk to Isabel before I decide as this is house business and very important also for Isabel. So if you excuse me."
Jacob left and Paul left shortly after. Augusta, Amelia and Sarah kept talking when Augusta says "I think Malfoy tried to force Daphne and Astoria into a marriage contract for Draco."
Amelia and Sarah agreed. Amelia says "I think too but we can do nothing about it if we don't know more."
Sarah agreed but Augusta was thinking. Amelia saw it and asks "what are you thinking Augusta?"
Augusta says "well maybe we can save the girls by offering Jacob a marriage contract. It is however too bad I cannot help both girls as sisters are not allowed to be married to one boy for the same line unless the sisters are twins even if one keeps her father's last name as their children are still for both lines. We need to find another boy. If Alice was still ... sane I could save them both as Harry is her godson like Lily is Neville's godmother. Dumbledore would never agree with signing a marriage contract for Harry without informing Harry that would bring a lot more problems."
Amelia wanted to say that Susan was betrothed to Harry although is it for the Bones line but decided to not say that but did say "let's try to help Jacob another way we will keep this as a last resort as it binds two people who may not even like each other and marriage contract need to be accepted by magic when signed or at least I know your family as mine do magic marriage contracts if we use it and if magic accepts it to break it then would be very painful physical and/ or financially if not also mentally."
Augusta sighed and nodded she knew Amelia was right, but without more information, she knew this was the only thing to surely work without fail except that Neville and one of the girls don't like each other. He would try to as he knew he would save that girl. Hopefully, he will at least try to make the marriage work although Sarah says that her daughter may like her grandson Neville a lot but it was too soon to tell if it is love and not just a very big crush.
Amelia went to her office to go home using the floo while Sarah and Augusta went to the atrium to floo home.
9th March 1994, Misuse of Muggle artefacts, MoM, London
Arthur was sitting at his desk. This was the first day since September that he had had a usual quiet day. He was thinking about the last month as today was the first month anniversary of his first operation. It was a hard one compared to the others that he had. He had a few other operations and two emergency calls for muggle artefacts that were enchanted and they needed his advice one was when a floo call came to him that something was happening in a muggle area what is his area.
He and 4 of his Auror went to the Floo. When he came there it was easily fixed what his department meant to do, but he needed to alert the Obliviator Headquarters and call (floo) for an Obliviator Squad and one Accidental Magic Reversal Squad. Arthur was the leader and it was a bit weird and made a few mistakes like obliviating someone twice and when something needed to be made he needed to give them the instructions three times before it looked normal according to a magical witness.
14th March 1994, Headmaster's office, Hogwarts
Dumbledore was in his office thinking of another plan to make sure Harry will serve the Greater Good. He thought about the security measure he was almost forced into about Sirius Black. He first wanted to deny but he thought that Trolls could help in more ways than one, but it would be difficult Hermione needed to be removed but it wasn't Harry's time yet. However, since they patch things up and were friends again Hermione was seldom alone without Harry including in the library. He needs Harry ignorant and every moment he was in the library was a danger to his plan of the Greater Good that needs to happen. He was thinking to confuse the Trolls to also attack Hermione, but Harry would probably do everything to save her as he foolishly did in his first year with the other Troll.
He could try to confuse the trolls but if he hurt a pureblood he would be in big trouble as long as the pureblood knew about the law and all knew except Harry and he still needed Harry. Even a half-blood magically raised could cause a lot of problems. Even Hermione with her new friends could at least give him a problem even though she was muggleborn as small financial compensation was needed and he didn't want to lose any money. Also if Dumbledore claimed something while Harry claimed something else there was a chance Harry won't trust him but he needs Harry's trust not to mention that Amelia will know before he could stop it and most in the wizengamot will follow Harry as the-boy-who-lived even some dark families purely to spite and resentment to Dumbledore. There has to be another way.
Dumbledore thought 'why does it have to be Black? If it was Voldemort I could have at least figured out what he wanted but Black is a loose cannon, especially without James and Remus. Remus claimed he didn't know anything and Dumbledore has not seen anything that would convince otherwise, that Remus knew anything about Sirius' intention or whereabouts.'
Fawkes looks with pity and disappointment while he is also mad before he flames out of the office. He could not leave but he could be away from him for a little while. Dumbledore was scheming more plans and adjusting the Greater Good where needed that he didn't even notice Fawkes flaming out. He grabbed a lemon drop out of one of his desk drawers they were different from the lemon drop on his desk. (A/N lemon drop is also known as sherbet lemon.)
25th March 1994, Headmaster's office, Hogwarts
Dumbledore was unhappy. Many students were leaving for Easter, but he hoped the mudblood Hermione would stay in school as then if he confused the Troll's the chance that a pureblood was hurt was small as most were gone for the Easter Holiday.
Dumbledore found that the mudblood was getting annoys. He tried to think better of Hermione as mudbloods are needed to keep the magical world alive but this mudblood was just like Lily, too smart for her own good. Not mentioning they didn't follow his Greater Good that would be the best for the continuation of magical England.
3rd April 1994, Greengrass Manor, Wales
Jacob was very annoyed. Malfoy didn't seem to know when to stop. He again tried to force him. Jacob knew from one of his contacts that Malfoy has been trying to buy the supplies Jacob couldn't get from the mainland, his normal suppliers were either bought out or threatened to make sure Jacob didn't get the supplies or at least not the required amount he needs. Jacob knew he could at least keep the business for two months before he was in serious trouble.
Jacob thought back to yesterday.
**Flashback**
Jacob was in the wizengamot room for the monthly meeting. He felt he was being watched and when he tried to subtle find out who was looking at him, Jacob should have known Malfoy was shooting daggers at him for still not signing the marriage contract and don't even want to talk about Astoria also being the wife for his pompous arse son and House Black.
Jacob knew both his daughters would be perfect ladies for important houses. He was lucky with Isabel as together they managed to teach them to be good pureblood ladies but still have a very happy childhood and it looked like when they are at home they are very happy not like some children that were learned to be pureblood ladies and have a bad childhood. He smiles that Isabel was the reason he was not too strict as his parents were even though they loved him, Merlin blesses their souls. Isabel was able to make it fun for their daughters and Isabel made sure he wasn't as strict as her father was.
The monthly meeting was always boring and budget meetings. Jacob always voted but he was here to be a voice for the neutral faction and needed to know if legal and illegal things changed that can be imported and exported. The meeting went especially about Sirius Black as in most of the meetings this year.
After the meeting before Malfoy could threaten him anymore, Amelia asked if he could follow her. Amelia went to her office in the DMLE well she rarely works at the weekend. When they were in her office she waited for a bit when Augusta Longbottom walked in with Sarah Abbot. Jacob wondered at that moment why he was here.
Amelia said "Jacob I asked you here as we like to hear if Malfoy has tried anything after the last monthly meeting? It is about your business but also your daughters. You don't have to tell but maybe we can help you."
Jacob didn't know if he should tell the truth about what Malfoy wanted also he remembered and knew they probably knew from what Malfoy said. He could use some money though to make sure he could keep the company as he didn't know how long it would take before he got supplies from the Potter and Black farms. He hoped that he would get it before the start of summer vacation so he can enjoy the vacation with his wife and daughters.
Jacob can tell a few things but not everything as the most important part was Harry being betrothed to Daphne. He feels he doesn't have the right to tell them as Harry himself didn't even know it yet. If he knew Daphne would have probably let us know by sending a letter.
Jacob said "well Lucius is trying to pressure me to agree with something I would never do and what isn't able anymore. I suspect that he is somehow forcing my contacts where I buy products from that my company import and I sell to business, Hogwarts and other customers to choose other importers, especially as the last two months I haven't been able to get the needed supply and for the supplies, I get I can barely make a profit."
Amelia, Augusta and Sarah nodded they know how Malfoy is and wouldn't put it past him to do something like that. Amelia said, "if needed Jacob we could try to help you maybe give you a loan without interest and pay us back when you can."
Jacob may need it, but he didn't like to have a loan not even from his future in-laws (House Potter) let's stand from Amelia, Augusta and Sarah he doesn't have any (close) connections like family ties.
Augusta suddenly asked, "wait you said that it isn't able anymore, do you mean that your daughter or better said daughters are already betrothed?"
Jacob knew he needed to get a deep breath to lie confidently especially as Amelia as an ex-Auror can read his body language when he lied and he heard that she has become even better after her Auror days. Jacob said "no that would be preposterous. I have promised I would never do that Isabel would kill me if I did."
Jacob did very well but when he looks at Amelia he knew he didn't do it good enough and he was caught.
Amelia said, "and now the truth Jacob."
Jacob thought and decided to tell the truth although not all. Jacob said "okay. Augusta you are right they are, but the betroth of Daphne doesn't know yet and I don't know the name of Astoria's betroth. I will not say the name from Daphne betroth as it isn't my place."
All the women nodded but Augusta asked one thing "Jacob do you like the boy for Daphne or trust his house?"
Jacob nodded and said, "yes I know the boy and like him and if I need to trust a house his house would be somewhere at the top of the list."
Augusta nodded and said, "okay then I agree with Amelia that maybe we can help you by giving a loan, but I have one condition if you would indulge me."
Jacob gave a short nod. Augusta asked, "is the house trustworthy?"
Jacob almost wants to laugh out loud House Longbottom asks if House Potter is trustworthy, the worst kept secret of allies. Jacob thinks that if Augusta knew that she asked if House Potter is trustworthy she will be embarrassed and feel guilty for questioning and for their honour. Jacob said "I can assure you they are. A loan can help my business but if you don't mind I would like to try it on my own for now. I have some plans that can make Malfoy's actions be in vain, but if I need some help with a loan I will be sure to let you know. I would have asked the house of Daphne's betroth but like I said her betroth doesn't know it yet at request of his re… head of House. Now if you will excuse me Isabel should be waiting for me."
The women nodded and Jacob quickly left. He almost made a big mistake if he said regent there are only a few Houses that have a regent and House Potter is the most know although it is not known who the regent is, but most thought Dumbledore was it as he is the magical guardian of Harry Potter, however, Jacob knew that magical guardian and regent are not considered the same but the wizengamot seem to have forgotten that when Dumbledore put two proxies on the Potter and Peverell seat even though he had never shown that he is the real regent, but apparently Regent Potter found out as they were dismissed while Dumbledore looked shocked for a second before he managed to put his normal expression back on.
**End Flashback**
He is thinking if he must accept the loan just to be safe than sorry when an owl flew in with two letters. He sees that both were from Gringotts. He opens the first letter and got a huge smile that only got bigger when he opens the second letter. The farms from House Potter and House Black were up and running as it looks now the first products from some of the products they can provide will be available in the last week of May then some products around half June and the most expensive would be the end of September maybe half of October. Jacob didn't mind as the products that can come earlier was enough that even with Malfoy's actions to pressure him he would most probably be able to keep it up until October.
The products in October were a long wait but those products would be sold for a very good price unless the market of it collapses but as those products are rare and expensive Jacob thought it wouldn't happen soon. He knew that the other products sooner were also uncommon but not as expensive as the others but still, he could sell them for a very nice price. He had some people that had asked him for it for years now and promised if he found a seller on the mainland he would contact them. He drafted the letter but would wait to send them as he didn't trust all of them, especially with Malfoy on a path to ruin him if Malfoy finds this out he would try to find his own supplier that would cost Jacob a lot of money income if that happens although it would cost Malfoy also a lot.
Jacob took a deep breath before taking a drink and went downstairs to tell Isabel the good news as Isabel was involved with the business and was afraid that they would lose the manor, their vacation house in France, her parent's home or the lesser-known property they have she likes to spend time at. Also, Isabel was ready to send Gringotts a letter to invite Regent Potter and if possible Lord Black to talk about the marriage contract but also for the business even though she knew of the sold shares to both houses which may give them the motivation to put more money in the business.
21st April 1994, Headmaster's office, Hogwarts
Dumbledore expected nothing less. Buckbeak was sentenced to death. Dumbledore knew that was something like this would happen. He thought 'the Greater Good sentenced Buckbeak to dead, there should be something that would be able to give me an advance. I just need to wait, it will know when the chance presents itself.'
4th June 1994, Malfoy's Manor, Wiltshire
Lucius was beyond mad. He had just come back from the wizengamot meeting and he suspected Jacob would have succumbed to his pressure by now and would almost beg to betroth Daphne and Astoria to his son as he couldn't support them anymore and would willingly sign over his business as only House Malfoy could safe it. However, nothing like that Jacob even seem to give him a smug full smile when Jacob saw Lucius looking at him.
If this were the old days he would get some Death Eaters and pay a house visit if his Lord allowed it and if needed Imperius him or torture him or his wife until he agreed, he wouldn't be the first one. He felt his Dark Mark very, very, very slightly getting darker he did not know what it meant but suspected that his master was still alive somewhere.
He told Narcissa and she says with a face without emotion "you should wait a few months if you continue to put the pressure he will succumb, but first takedown Weasley's department that could get you the support among the traditional light and neutral houses for other plans."
Narcissa didn't like to give him ideas or support but she had no other choice for now. She hoped that she soon will be free and make these last hopefully days if not hours as least painless as possible. She needs to obey him, but if he asks a question she doesn't have to be truthful, fortunately. He asked when Sirius escaped if his son would be the next Lord Black. Narcissa said yes then but later she remembered there was one other possibility as her mother hated her but her grandfather, uncle Orion didn't and knowing Sirius Draco would not be Heir Black when Lord Black dies (or incarcerate and sentenced for longer than 10 years probably resulting in his death in Azkaban).
5th June 1994, Headmaster's office, Hogwarts
Dumbledore was not happy as it seems that some girls were getting closer to Harry. Hermione was already bad enough but now he heard that Susan Bones and Daphne Greengrass and that is not mentioning the other girls from his year, fortunately, he also got some friends that kept the girls sometimes away but Neville gave him great concern. If Susan didn't have her Aunt she would be okay but with Aunt she is not good as Amelia isn't devoted to him and Dumbledore thinks Amelia doesn't trust him.
He knew that the end of the year was coming and knowing Harry something would happen. Knowing Sirius he would do something careless. Harry was slightly trained by Lupin and will he didn't mind that much as it is needed for the Greater Good also if Professor McGonagall managed to find out Dumbledore didn't allow it he would lose her trust completely and in the last months she didn't agree with many things but she still trusts him it seems. If he didn't allow the training he would have lost her and he needs her for now. However, it seems Harry is even better than he was at his age. He couldn't cast a Patronus shield until his sixth Hogwarts year, at the end of his seventh year he managed to cast a strong shield which gave him a very, very small O and it took him three years after that to get a corporeal Patronus what wasn't a phoenix at the time and somewhat weak.
6th June 1994, Ministry of Magic, London
The DMLE had an emergency meeting with all department heads. Amelia stood in front of all the department heads including Arthur. Amelia says "thank you all for this emergency meeting. I got the news today that tonight it is a full moon. It is a natural phenomenon as the last time it was supposed to be a full moon was a lunar eclipse as the last time it happened in Britain is many years ago. We have more lunar eclipses but as it doesn't always happen the last time was at least around 75 years ago.
I called this emergency meeting as we need as many wands tonight as possible. As werewolves are people they may not know about this and still change tonight without potions they are a danger to the wizarding world. I want all departments to be at least staffed by 75%, with the department head and I don't mean deputies. Now call your staff and get them ready. I am not going to lie it will be chaos and very dangerous. We will be overwhelmed and dead tired tomorrow morning.
When nobody moves she shouts "what are you waiting for….."
Immediately everybody went to their office to call their people if they need more or to make the squads. Arthur was heading to his office as he needs to call a few from his Auror as he needs to have seven Aurors with him and the normal evening shift is two Aurors while at the weekend it depends so he needs to call at least five Aurors as today is Monday.
Just as he sends them a message to come here Amelia walks into his office. Artur asks "Director Bones what can I do for you?"
Amelia says "well Arthur as your department usually does not work with werewolves and your Aurors are well trained but inexperienced I still want you on standby as that is needed but your Aurors need to take over the Auror department for anything not Werewolf related which shouldn't be much unless my gut is wrong unfortunately it rarely is. Your department is in reserve if all the other squad are out and another Werewolf message gets in you will need to go without your Aurors. To make sure you get not hurt you get newly Junior Auror Tonks, Junior Auror Jones and Senior Auror and squad leader Shacklebolt. Junior Auror Tonks, Junior Auror Jones and Senior Auror Shacklebolt will only go if there is a Werewolf message otherwise you need to send your own Aurors if it is not Werewolf related. I will be in my office this night when you get a message and you need to go as all the others are out. I will also accompany you beside of course Junior Auror Tonks, Junior Auror Jones and Senior Auror Shacklebolt."
6th/ 7th June 1994, Hospital wing corridor, Hogwarts
Dumbledore had just talked to the former Harry and Hermione. Now was the time to use Buckbeak's execution to his use. He was on the top of the stairs when Harry and Hermione came running. Dumbledore asks "well?"
Dumbledore has his famous twinkle in his eyes he looks at Harry he sees Sirius has escaped but can't find out more. He knows Sirius has escaped and gets no new information from Harry by Harry's emotional state on the inside but not showing it on the outside.
Dumbledore keeps his famous twinkle in his eyes but when he looks at Hermione. He can't read her mind something is different than before when he did it. He was harder this year but she was still an open book but now he can't read her mind when he tries to subtly use Legilimency.
Dumbledore doesn't know how that is possible. He had removed all the books regarding Legilimency and Occlumency, especially those that learn Occlumency and Legilimency and also make sure every book that the mudblood ordered didn't have something regarding Occlumency. Dumbledore doesn't have to worry about Legimilimens as he is a very accomplished Occlumens manly thanks to his old friend Gellert Grindelwald.
Dumbledore tries to push a bit harder to get into Hermione's mind. He knew her mind as ordered as it holds a great deal of information about this night with hopefully what he wanted to happen. Maybe something he can exploit to get her to not love Harry. When he pushes he starts to enter her mind when suddenly he is thrown out. He needs to take one step back. Dumbledore decides to try it again and hopes that she doesn't know what the pressure would be on her mind subtly doesn't seem to work.
He looks again. This is almost the strongest he could do without using his wand and with Harry here he needs to trust him he cannot use his wand. He enters her mind again but before he can see even one memory about the night he sees a large light in the form of a stag that forcefully pushes Dumbledore out again. He needs to take several steps back almost getting pushed into the wall but manages to stop barely a few inches from the wall.
He unlocked the door from the Hospital Wing and swing them open for Harry and Hermione and then closed it again. Dumbledore locks the door again giving them a watertight alibi as muggles would say.
He was out of earshot from the Hospital Wing with no one close by. He got a very mad look on his face. He thought 'why can't I look through the mudbloods memories. Was Harry the reason? Do I need to control his power again or maybe another bind? Was it even Harry? I don't know if the halfbreed bit her as I couldn't see in her mind thanks through that bright light that looks a bit like a stag that should point at Harry but I know Harry didn't learn Legilimency as he never saw it in his mind this year also I know the halfbreed Lupin didn't learn that to Harry. Most of what Harry learned are combat spells that Legilimency is not also the halfbreed always asked him to allow the spells.'
'It doesn't look like the halfbreed didn't do what he needed to do as I couldn't see any blood especially not at the neck where most werewolves bite to infect others with their disease and make them nothing more than filthy halfbreeds. Was it Harry that prevented it but became on himself no he also didn't show any blood? Maybe I can ask Madam Pomfrey if they had any injuries. Some help may be needed Afterall. Ronald and Molly are the prime candidates all they need is an incentive and maybe a little persuasion, after all, I can be very persuasive' while letting his wand go through his fingers without dropping it.
**Now we get back to the story where we left off. I hope the above gave you an idea of what happened outside of Hogwarts and in**
6th June 1994, Hogwarts grounds, Hogwarts
Hermione and Harry run on the wooden bridge that led to the path to Hagrid's cabin. Before they reach the end and Hermione has managed to catch her breath a bit Hermione says "this is a Time-Turner, Harry. McGonagall gave it to me first term. This is how I've been getting to my lessons all year."
Harry asks unbelievable "you mean, we've gone back in time? Well, that explains a lot."
Harry gave a small smile that makes Hermione feel better. Hermione answers "yes. Dumbledore wanted us to return to this moment. Clearly, something happened he wants us to change."
When they reach the end of the bridge it is a small stone hallway they hear a soft smack. They try to stay hidden and see Malfoy knocked to the ground after Hermione hit him for a second time.
Harry whispers in Hermione's ear in admiration "good punch."
Hermione wants to thank Harry but sees Malfoy coming and says "hurry Harry! Malfoy's coming!"
Harry helps Hermione out of the window. As soon as Harry jumped out of the window Hermione pulls Harry under the bridge.
Hermione and Harry hear Malfoy says "not a word of this to anyone, understood! I'll get that jumped-up Mudblood one of these days. Mark my words..."
Hermione and Harry's eyes narrow in anger. Seconds later they hear footsteps over their heads in the stone hallway and on the wooden bridge. Hermione sees Malfoy's legs and wants to grab him. When she has Malfoy falls to the ground. Harry immediately pulls her back which succeeds as she feels Harry's hands on her shoulder she let Malfoy's left leg go. Malfoy looks to his feet in confusion as he could swear he felt something. As he sees nothing he orders Crabbe and Goyle to pull him up before dashes off with his goons.
Seconds later, Harry and Hermione come out from beside the bridge and small stone hallway to see their former self and Ron heading down the path to Hagrid's hut. Harry's eyes shift to the pumpkin patch.
Harry says "look. Buckbeak's still alive."
Hermione says "of course! Remember what Dumbledore said. If we succeed, more than one innocent life could be spared."
Harry asks " Buckbeak? But... how will saving Buckbeak help Sirius?"
Hermione put her hand on Harry's arm and says "we'll see. Otherwise, we come up with a plan to use Buckbeak otherwise we let him fly away."
Harry and Hermione went to the tree line of the Forbidden forest before closing in on Hagrid's cabin and more importantly Buckbeak. Harry and Hermione see Buckbeak feasting on a ferret. Harry and Hermione duck behind a pile of pumpkins. They look into the hut, Harry sees Hermione and Ron embrace awkwardly and feels a small spike of jealousy but thinks to himself 'it is just friendship, Hagrid made them and we aren't here for that.
He grins, turns, only to find Hermione analysing the moment with considerable fascination but also with frustration and immediately looks at Harry with that look of longing. Caught, but Harry didn't recognize the look of longing in her eyes hoping she could hug Harry but there was no time for it at least not what she wanted.
Hermione blushes a bit and asks "what?"
Harry is a bit confused why she looks frustrated and mad at her and Ron hugging before looking different at him. Harry answers unconformable "nothing."
Harry looks up the path. He sees Fudge and the others approaching. Harry sees a cloud of crows above the executioners. They move to the side and hide behind a large pumpkin.
Harry says "here they come. I better hurry."
Hermione with no power pulls Harry back and says "no! Fudge has to see Buckbeak before we steal him. Otherwise, he'll think Hagrid set him free!'
Harry nods forgetting that and then looks toward the hut. Inside, Hagrid is handing Scabbers to Ron.
Harry says almost with an animalistic growl "that's Pettigrew…"
As he starts to rise, Hermione grabs him, and speaks fiercely when she interrupts him like she is mad "no, Harry! You can't!."
Harry says a bit calmer "Hermione, that's the man who betrayed my parents! You don't expect me to just sit here..."
Hermione interrupts Harry again but with her nice voice that calms Harry down a bit "Yes! You Must! Harry, you're in Hagrid's hut right now. If you go bursting inside, you'll think you've gone mad. Awful things can happen when wizards meddle with time. We can't be seen."
Harry reluctantly nods and turns to Hermione. Hermione smiles at him while putting her hand on his arm again and she feels Harry relax although she doesn't know how she feels that. She decides to focus back on the group containing Fudge, Dumbledore and the executioner that are coming closer. She frowns and glances into the hut.
Hermione asks " Fudge is coming and... we're not leaving... why aren't we leaving?"
Just then on the ground beside her and on the large pumpkin they are hiding behind Hermione notices a jagged star-shaped stone. Instantly, she grabs it, rises, and throws it through the open window. The sound of a glass jar shattering is heard within the hut and outside as Hermione and Harry see and hear that she hit a glass jar.
Harry says "are you mad?"
Hermione ignores him when she doesn't want to. She swiftly throws a second stone through the window and hit the back of Harry's head.
Harry that is beside her says while feeling the back of his head "that hurt."
Hermione says truthfully "sorry. We can ask Madam Pomfrey to look at it later when we are back. You must have said something to Madam Pomfrey."
Crows begin to land atop the roof, in the pumpkin patch and even start to circle above Buckbeak. Fudge's party arrives and knocks on the door.
Hermione drags Harry by his wrist into the forbidden forest while staying down so Dumbledore, Fudge or the executioner don't see them. Hermione whispers "c'mon. Any minute now we're going to be coming out the back door."
Immediately Hermione and Harry run into the forbidden forest ducking behind a tree directly behind the large pumpkin just in time to see themselves along with Ron leave the back door and slip behind a large pumpkin where, only seconds before, they were hiding. As Fudge appears at the window and picks his nose as before, Hermione looks at the back of her own head.
Hermione asks without thinking "is that really what my hair looks like from the back?"
Harry only says "shhh!"
Hermione sees herself turn as she ducks behind a tree. She accidentally stirs the branches, then peeks out and sees herself staring curiously at the branches moving around her. She hears her own voice saying "nothing, I just thought I saw... Never mind."
Harry and Hermione watch themselves and Ron starts up the path to the half stone circle. The coast is clear, they slip out of the trees.
Hermione says "now, Harry!"
Harry slowly bowed down to avoid being seen while approaching Buckbeak. The crows in the pumpkin patch start to peck at his feet if they are not cawing at his ankles.
Harry hears Cornelius Fudge say "it is the decision of the Committee for the Disposal of Dangerous Creatures that the Hippogriff Buckbeak, hereafter called the condemned, shall be executed this day, the 6th of June 1994 at sundown."
Harry approaches Buckbeak to give him a happy shriek but also studies him curiously, with still a ferret leg dangling from Buckbeak's beak. Harry bows deeper. The ferret leg disappears and Buckbeak looks confused, he had already bowed to him before Harry even bows. Buckbeak doesn't understand why Harry still bows. Buckbeak doesn't bow but walks toward Harry wanting a pet. As Harry takes Buckbeak's chain... a flint-eyed crow pecks his hand.
Harry says firmly "get away!"
Harry tried to remove the crow from his hand by moving his hand hard which made him pull hard on Buckbeak's chain. Buckbeak doesn't like that hard pull and when he sees why Harry did that he grabs the crow off Harry's hand and eats it.
Harry smiles as he whispers "thank you Buckbeak."
Buckbeak gave a happy shriek. Cornelius Fudge wants to look outside when Harry hears Dumbledore's voice "can we continue Minister."
Cornelius Fudge stops halfway from turning around and says "of course. Now, where was I …. ah yes. The Committee's appointed executioner shall dispatch the condemned through beheading."
Harry gently pulls Buckbeak's chain as he says "c'mon, Buckbeak. Come on."
Buckbeak refuses to move as he still wants to get a pet before he moves.
Cornelius Fudge says "as witnessed below.' You sign here, Hagrid. Very well, gentlemen. Let's step outside, shall we."
Suddenly the Hogwarts bell is heard. Harry and Hermione exchanged a glance. Harry pulls harder but Buckbeak is still waiting for the pet from Harry.
Harry hears Dumbledore say "excuse me, Minister. I believe I must sign as well … as headmaster from Hogwarts and Chief Warlock.'
Harry pulls at the chain. Buckbeak pushes his head against Harry's shoulder. Buckbeak raises his head and sees Hermione. Buckbeak recognizes her as being close to Harry and bows much quicker than the last time. Hermione dangles a dead ferret before Buckbeak.
Hermione says "here, Beaky... Come and get the nice dead ferret... yum yum..."
Harry looks at her as if she's mad, but it's working. Buckbeak looks at Harry when is sees likes he gives a nod Buckbeak trots after Hermione which makes the crows cawing scatter.
Hermione leads Buckbeak away when the patch as the front door suddenly opens. They freeze thinking they are caught when Fudge's eyes drift their way, when, as before, Dumbledore raises his hand and directs the attention of the others away from Buckbeak.
Dumbledore points and says "Professor Dippet had those blackberries planted when he was Headmaster."
Harry and Hermione immediately pull Buckbeak along to almost immediately disappear into the forbidden forest just as Dumbledore concludes his story. Now Hermione and Harry know what Dumbledore pointed at when they look from above the edge.
Cornelius Fudge says "ah yes, but let's get this over with, shall we?"
Harry and Hermione with their view unobstructed by the low stand of trees this time instead of a large rock watch the Executioner approach the pumpkin patch and stops. Immediately, the confusion in his masked eyes turns to anger.
Cornelius Fudge asks "but... where is it? I just saw the beast not moments ago …. Hagrid?
Hagrid screams "Beaky..."
Hearing Hagrid's voice makes Buckbeak pulls at the chain when he whimpers eerily to get to Hagrid. Hermione tosses him another ferret while Harry pets his beak which makes Buckbeak push his head into Harry's hand while he eats and stops pulling the chain.
Dumbledore with an amusing smile says "how extraordinary!"
Cornelius Fudge says a bit grumpy "come now, Dumbledore. Someone's obviously released him."
Hagrid immediately says "Professor, I swear! I didn'!"
Dumbledore says " I'm quite sure the Minister isn't suggesting that you had anything to do with it, Hagrid. How could you? You've been with us all along."
Cornelius Fudge trying to get the situation under his control says "we should search the grounds…"
Dumbledore interrupts and points his hand to the skies when he says "search the skies if you must, Minister. In the meantime, I wouldn't say no to a cup of tea, Hagrid. Or... a large brandy."
Before Dumbledore walk into the cabin again he says to the executioner " It seems your services will no longer be required."
The Executioner lifts his blade and with a brutal fury swing it down it into the flesh of a very large pumpkin with a sickening chop which makes the crows scatter to the skies.
Harry and Hermione run through the forest as Buckbeak easily follows hoping for more ferrets or another pet from Harry maybe even Hermione.
When they slow down Harry asks "now what?"
Hermione says firmly and with determination "we safe Sirius."
Harry is happy with the answer "and we do that... how?
Hermione bites her underlip which Harry clearly sees and suddenly gets thoughts that aren't the right place to get now. Hermione says "no idea."
Harry says when he gets thoughts out of his head "we need to head to the Whomping Willow."
Hermione nods and runs with Harry and Buckbeak behind them to the Whomping Willow.
Just as they see the Whomping Willow when they were at the edge of the Forbidden Forest, the Whomping Willow is trashing just when they see Hermione sliding down the hole. Almost immediately Lupin walks quickly towards the Whomping Willow.
Hermione says "look. It's Professor Lupin."
The Whomping Willow starts to trash and tried to hit Remus who is just out of his reach. Professor Lupin fire a spell to a knot on the trunk and instantly the Willow calms.
Harry says with a smile "wait until Fred and Georg hear about that one."
Hermione sees another figure and says "here comes Professor Snape."
As Lupin has calmed the willow and went down the hole like they saw Hermione do Snape walks down the slope passes Hagrid's cabin and then out of sight.
Harry sits down against a try and says "and now we wait."
Hermione sits next to him and almost instinctively put her head on his shoulder and says "now we wait" with a deep sigh.
Buckbeak lies down beside Harry and put his head on his front legs when Harry mindlessly starts to pet his feathers.
Harry suddenly says "Hermione your hair looks good from the back. I really like your bushy hair, it is you."
Hermione sees Harry still watching the Whimpong Willow and thinks 'why did I care how my hair looks I never did before? Was it because Harry could see my hair from the back at the time and I was not happy with the back? Or is it because I want Harry to like me, but why would he am I just his best friend and there are so much better-looking girls than me like Susan or Daphne … even Ginny is better looking and she is a year younger.'
It is like Harry knows what she is thinking as he says "Hermione I really mean it, it looks very good, especially on you…. I hope you don't mind me saying it?"
Hermione says "I don't mind" and asks in a small girl's voice "you like my hair?"
Harry says "yeah" like it is no big deal."
Hermione still in her little girl's voice asks "really?"
Harry says "yes Hermione I do. It may be bushy but that is what I like about it. Even when you do not try your hair looks good although I wonder what it looks like when it is not bushy. It doesn't really matter as I said I like your hair and it always looks good bushy or not and I mean it."
Hermione says "thank you."
Hermione barely resists the urge to kiss him even if it is only on his cheek although she wants to kiss him like a girlfriend kisses her boyfriend. She thinks for a moment about how she sees Vanessa snog Oliver while she is straddling him on the couch in the Gryffindor Common Room and it slowly changes in her straddling Harry with his hand in her hair and Harry's muscular chest without a shirt on her hands going over his bare chest.
She comes back to reality as she gets embarrassed, feels very hot and feels a bit wet. She puts her head further is his shoulder which makes her push her above-average breasts against him making his left arm push between them. She put her arms around Harry and hug him as she says "I am happy you like my hair, I like your unruly black hair too."
Harry says nothing as he tries to prevent the growing problem that is growing because of Hermione although some other girls flash through his mind too every girl is always with Hermione. Harry has his right arm free so he could continue to pet Buckbeak. They stay like this for a long while, while they wait.
Buckbeak suddenly stands up when Harry sees bats flying toward them. As Harry and Hermione sat, they didn't need to duck. Behind them, they hear Buckbeak grabbing a bat in his beak and eating it. Buckbeak quickly grabs another to eat it too.
Hermione says closely to Harry's ear as she still has her head on his shoulder "at least someone's enjoying himself."
Harry and Hermione sit together at a tree. Harry snaps off a piece of chocolate and hands it to Hermione. She grabs it with one hand not wanting to stop holding onto Harry but did so anyway.
Harry says "Hermione...
Hermione after slowing the chocolate asks "yes?"
Harry says "before. Down by the lake. When I was with Sirius... I did see someone... that someone made the Dementors go away..."
Hermione says "with a Patronus. I heard Snape telling Dumbledore when we were taken you and Ron to the hospital. According to him, only a really powerful adult wizard could have conjured it."
Harry says "it was my Dad."
Hermione let go of Harry as she still had an arm and hand on his chest. She looks at Harry.
Harry says "it was my Dad who conjured the Patronus."
Hermione not wanting to crush Harry and get the smile he has on his face says "but, Harry, your Dad's...
Harry interrupts her when he says "dead. I know. I'm just telling you what I saw."
Hermione nods, not wanting to press Harry further especially as he looks away from her. Hermione wants to say something to make him feel better than looks at the Whomping Willow and sees Sirius coming out of the hole with Harry trying to get Ron out.
Hermione says "I want to believe you Harry, but here we come."
Harry sees himself put Ron on a large rock before walking to Sirius. Harry studies himself and Sirius. Harry heard what Hermione and he knows it is weird thinking his dead dad came back from the dead to save him, but it gave him a better feeling that somehow his parents were still watching over him and cared about him as his relatives would not.
Harry says "you see Sirius talking to me?"
Hermione nods.
Harry says "he's asking me to come to live with him."
Hermione says with happiness in her voice as she knew Harry's relatives don't like Harry "really? That is great!"
She knows Harry's relatives don't like him and Sirius from the little time she saw him does... a lot. Harry never told much about his relatives only when she was petrified did she learn more like that her aunt was his mother's sister and loathe her for being a witch, that his uncle clearly hated his mother and father, but also clearly magic in general and Dudley bullies him while his fathers encourage him. He didn't say more but it was enough. She started to question last summer how bad was or whether it was even worse.
Hermione was back in the present when she sees Harry nod and his voice wistful when Harry says "when we free him, I'll never have to go back to the Dursleys. It will just be me and him. We can live in the country someplace you can see the sky. I think he'd like that, after all those years in Azkaban. We don't need a big place and I can help him..."
Before Harry could finish his sentence they hear former Hermione screaming his name, the full moon appears, a Howl pierces the night and Hermione looks back towards the Whomping Willow.
Hermione would like to talk to Harry more as the happiness on his face she has rarely seen. He noticed the look when she was unpetrified but also when he got the Firebolt. She doesn't remember the same look when she was unpetrified and only remembers when he got the Firebolt. Hermione says "It's happening. Professor Lupin is transforming."
Harry says "which means Pettigrew is slipping safely into the night. While we just stand here..."
They follow Sirius along the tree line of the Forbidden forest. A fierce growling is heard as two figures, the dog and the werewolf were fighting. Just as Lupin throws Sirius on a rock the werewolf sees Harry as Harry sees himself appear and throw the rock as before. The werewolf turns and starts to walk toward Harry.
Suddenly Harry hears from right beside him "OWWWWWWWWW!"
Harry turns and sees Hermione, hands cupped to her mouth, making a loud howl. He covers her mouth and secret wishes he would do it with his mouth when immediately thinks 'she is just my best friend she doesn't like me like that.'
Harry asks "what are you doing?"
Hermione points to the other Harry and says "saving your life."
Harry looks to the top where his former self and Professor Lupin as a werewolf stand frozen before he raises his hand again.
Hermione again howls "OWWWWWWWW!"
This time, Harry doesn't stop her and Professor Lupin as Werewolf runs towards them. He says "Thanks 'Mione… Great, now he is coming for us. We have to move."
Hermione didn't hear as she only hears the shorting of her name that makes her blush madly. She asks blushingly "why?"
Harry says "because that werewolf you just called is running right this way."
Hermione sees Lupin running towards them while she says "yeah didn't think about that" she grabs Harry's left arm to drag him further into the forest.
They look at each other and say to each other at the same time "RUN" while they were already running into the forest.
I end here for now. I hope you like this chapter. In the next chapter, we will go to see if they evade Remus as a werewolf and if Harry's father really comes to his rescue or if it is someone else,?. Harry will retrieve the Marauders Map and how will Remus fill in his job as the school year is not over as they aren't done with his class for the remaining weeks. Dumbledore should not be able to find someone else.
It will probably be large chapters as there are a few things that need to be covered.
Please read and review. PMs are certainly appreciated. If you haven't answered yet please answer the question at the beginning of chapter 37.