The adventures from love and life

by coco29

It is my first Harry Potter story. Will be Harry/Multi (Harem) and probably Neville/Multi. It will start at the beginning of the third year. Slow build-up. A smarter Harry and more friends. Earlier real friends with Neville and Ginny. Can be long between updates. Bashing RW/AD/?. We have reached the fourth year how will the earlier changes change the tournament and relationships?

41. Hermione's wondering, Daphne's search, H

Chapter 41 Hermione's wondering, Daphne's search, Harry's summer and Harry's Birthday

2nd July 1994, Heathgate, Hampstead

Hermione came down early like she always does. Her parents wanted to talk last night but she was too tired at the moment she lost sight of Harry when he was almost dragged away by that large man that is probably his uncle. Her thoughts returned to all the signs she saw that made her worry but also the feeling when Harry is right next to her or the second-best night in Hogwarts ever when she, Harry and Ginny slept on the couch together.

It is Saturday today and her parents don't work today normally but occasionally one of her parents handles any emergency that comes up. She had woken up early as her dreams hadn't changed since the nights after Sirius escaped. When she woke up her brain was already in full gear and only one thing was in her mind it is Harry.

Mostly Harry and how to get him to see her as a potential romantic interest. She knows that many girls like Harry and some like her that love him. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of girls that like Harry as the-boy-who-lived and as just Harry or at least didn't make an effort to know Harry. Hermione was proud of Ginny that she tried successfully to know the real Harry. Hermione was feeling a bit sad that her first real girlfriend love the same guy she loves.

Hermione decides to think after her talk with her parents and her homework to work something out with Ginny to not become jealous of each other or something else. Hermione has noticed that Ginny is much more observant than Ronald and she knows it is a matter of time before Ginny finds out about her feelings for Harry which probably match hers. Hermione hopes that if she can talk with Ginny about Harry Ginny doesn't feel betrayed as she will feel if she found Hermione's feelings for Harry out on her own.

Hermione knows it is a gamble but hopes that their new friendship that has been building for the last 10 months will withstand them both loving the same boy. However, Hermione is still wondering if she has a chance to get Harry's heart or if she already lost him to one of the other girls mostly because she has seen him as a friend and that all the other girls like Susan, Daphne and even Ginny are much better looking than her ….. at least that is what she thinks.

She was wondering why Daphne a Slytherin was so much in her and more importantly Harry's life last year. Sure she isn't like Malfoy not in the slightest at the first glance and never agitated them like Malfoy did but still. Other Slytherins were probably not very happy with Daphne and somehow she worried about Daphne and that extended a bit to Tracey and her younger sister Astoria. Hermione had, however, no idea to help them and she wants to as long as they aren't like Malfoy and Harry seems to like Daphne enough to see her as a friend.

It wasn't long before her parents came down. They first had breakfast before Hermione talked about what has happened after Easter with her and with Harry. Her parents were happy to hear that she told them everything they wanted to know. They were happy for Harry to immediately feel sorry for him that his godfather was framed and needed to escape England. Hermione promised that Sirius is innocent and they believed her. Hermione didn't tell them everything though.

She didn't tell about the night with Harry and Ginny on the couch or her feelings for Harry but also the arousal because of Harry. She did tell that Harry convinced her to drop muggle studies although Professor McGonagall gave her the last push when Professor McGonagall admit she can take the OWL without following the class for all subjects but she was sure, she will not take the OWL for divination. She admits it can be a class but only if you show signs of being a seer which only a very few have.

2nd July 1994, Greengrass Manor, Wales

Daphne hasn't been able to stop reading Hogwarts: a History to see if something in the history of Hogwarts could help. If that would not help she can look in the Hogwarts charter. She has been looking since this morning and it was already late in the afternoon. Dinner will be soon but she needs to find a way she just knows there is a way. Even if there isn't a way with her Slytherin mind she can make a way she is a Slytherin for a reason. She is resourceful, determinant and cunning. She could ask for help but her pride and learning to protect herself by never showing weakness prevent her from it … at least for now and she would only ask for help if she didn't find a way.

She didn't know if her parents will accept what she is looking for, and Astoria will probably immediately tell her parents if Astoria disagrees or doesn't think it is a good idea. True Daphne was also doubting but she felt that Slytherin's house was becoming more dangerous for her than includes Tracey and Astoria. Slytherin tries to find a weakness in other persons as most would go over dead bodies if needed to get what they want. While Daphne loves Astoria very much and wouldn't want to lose her she can be used to get to her and she thinks it is her job as an older sister to protect her.

Tracey is also a way to get to her. Tracey is her best friend and she already has a hard time in Slytherin for being a half-blood. Tracey is a good witch and strong too but Daphne was afraid that if needed they would be heavily outnumbered against the upper years even if it was only the boys. All that she gathered is scaring her and the only one who can save her is her betrothed Harry Potter with possible allies like House Longbottom. Their houses with House Black and to a lesser degree House Bones have the most power and money in the wizarding world.

Daphne hopes if she can't find anything that she can convince her parents to send a message to Regent Potter and maybe even Lord Black to reassure Astoria. If Regent Potter comes as does Lord Black and Lord Black's Heir is someone bad Daphne thinks she can plead to Regent Potter to save Astoria hopefully. Daphne knows she would do everything to save Astoria, but first, she needs to continue her search.

4th July 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

Harry is having the same summers as before the only difference is that every morning he is running to improve endurance just like he did at Hogwarts. Just as he expected even the muggle news said that Sirius has fled the country but keep your eyes open and if you see Sirius immediately call the police. Somehow Harry thinks it would be wise to still accidentally, of course, tell him that Sirius Black is his godfather without it sounding threatening. Harry can just tell that Muggles would never find him or capture him.

Harry thinks 'I will consider it as beside the chores and barely enough food isn't that bad and they barely talk to me anyway unless when they call me a freak or like Uncle Vernon boy.'

Harry was doing his chores during the day and at night he read the Occlumency book. He finds it very interesting and thinks it can be very useful. Unfortunately, he can't read too much at night or he won't be up early enough to make breakfast. Harry cannot start to protect his mind as you need time to build your protection together with all the chores enough time to sleep and barely enough food to survive he just doesn't have the time. Also, some things that are written in the books are kind of vague and Harry doesn't understand without someone who can explain it more in-depth, especially someone who had or currently have Occlumency training.

6th July 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

It was late at night and Harry was lying on his stomach. Something went wrong with Uncle Vernon's job or at least that is what Vernon said when he hit his back and blamed him for everything. Harry just took it as screaming, crying or pleading would only make the belt lashing increase.

Harry was shoved in the room and only got a little bit of food barely enough. Suddenly a small pop is heard and Dobby appeared in the room.

Dobby looks around until he sees Harry and says "Master is hurt by a bad muggle. Dobby got potion."

Dobby almost force-fed Harry the potion. When Harry fell asleep Dobby grabs some ointment and starts to rub the lashes. The wounds were already closed but the ointment was to ease the pain when moving and prevent the small scaring. Unfortunately, the belt lashes are making large scars and the ointment could only treat a small part. Most of the scaring of the belt lashes remained.

6th July 1994, The Burrow/ Heathgate, Hampstead

At the same time, the two girls feel some of the pain Harry feels. The girls feel the pain isn't theirs. They don't know that what they feel is from Harry or that the pain they feel is only a small part of what Harry feels. The girls feel the pain but not as bad as Harry feels it through the bond.

Harry has a very high pain threshold so even if the girls feel pain if Harry feels the same pain he wouldn't be bothered by it and barely feel it. Harry feels a lot more pain than the girls feel as Vernon hit him and not the girls. The girls try to find why they feel pain, but when the pain ends or at least that they barely feel it and is just a lingering feeling without being in pain.

7th July 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

Harry wakes up with less pain than he expected. His uncle and cousin will have a lie-in as Dudley also have the summer holiday while Vernon didn't need to be in before noon. His Aunt also doesn't like him. Harry wonders if she would open his door when his Uncle wakes up to make breakfast if they let him out today at all.

He opens his eyes and almost screams as he sees two large green orbs in front of him. Before he can scream and shot up he remembers seeing them before and says "good morning Dobby. Could you please get off me?"

Dobby jumps off Harry and says "Dobby is sorry Master. Dobby feels Master is hungry and came to give Master breakfast."

Harry sees behind Dobby on the barely unbroken desk a tray with delicious-looking food. Harry asks "Dobby is that food for me?"

Dobby nods and asks "did Master not want food? Did Dobby do bad?"

Harry is afraid that Dobby will punish himself but it seems Dobby learned as he asks before trying to punish himself. Harry says "no, no Dobby. I am happy you did but where did you get the food from?"

Dobby asks "from Hogwarts Master."

Harry asks "it that no problem?"

Dobby shakes his head "no Master Harry. Professors are always in the castle and have enough food to feed the Professors in the summer. Dobby can make food for Master without a problem."

Harry says "okay if you are sure Dobby and if the Professors don't mind or don't notice as they have enough then I am alright with it. Thank you for the food Dobby. Did you make it?"

Dobby enthusiastically nods his head. Harry stands up to take a seat and took a bite of his breakfast. Harry's face light up and says "this is wonderful Dobby thank you."

Dobby smiles happily and almost cries from happiness. Dobby says "thank you, Master. Dobby hoped Master likes it, only the best for the best Master and greatest wizard."

Before Harry can respond Dobby pops out letting Harry enjoy his breakfast. Harry eats fast for the chance for his Aunt let him out of his room to make breakfast and do chores he already has done. Harry's chores were mostly the same so the house stays spotless and the backyard without weed or he would get punished, it is all about outward appearances.

When his Uncle and Nephew are up and about before seeing Dudley leave it seems he would not let out today and when lunch comes about he gets even less food than last week. It seems Uncle Vernon is still mad or something. Food apparates in and it looks like Dobby has made food again.

It was the evening when he gets again food and again food apparate in. Unfortunately, Vernon decided Harry get another beating and saw the food. He grabbed it and throw it on the ground and he says "freaks like you don't deserve good food like this. How did you get it?"

Harry can't answer as he didn't want Dobby to be hurt if Vernon finds out Dobby will get hurt and less important to Harry he would be punished more to let something freakish from his world inside his relatives' normal house.

After almost an hour of being beaten and another half hour with his belt. Vernon went to grab a knife and start to make small sallow cuts on Harry's back enough to draw much blood but not enough to kill Harry or make him pass out from the lost amount of blood. Ten minutes after starting with the knife Vernon stands up and says "don't let me find out you have food like that again. We give you the only food you deserve you must be grateful we even give you any food at all. Just like with the goodness of our heart to give you this bedroom and the clothes on your back or you wouldn't have anything."

He gets food if you can call it that. His relatives mostly gave him barely eatable food without making him sick. Most of the time any bread he got had already a couple of mould stains on it and if he got any soup it would be stone cold. Even though it was barely eatable he barely gets enough to not starve and could still do his chores. He would never say it but he is almost continually hungry sometimes it feels like he is starving.

Harry wants to respond but he is having trouble remaining conscious. Vernon grabs his trunk and drags it down. Harry has hidden the Occlumency book last night after the beating.

Vernon says "you had your chance. Your trunk will be locked up until you are finally gone for the summer. Your freakish owl will stay in her cage for the rest of the summer or else."

Right after Vernon is gone Harry hears Vernon dragging his trunk down and says "Dobby?"

Dobby pops in and sees Harry bloodied. Dobby says "Dobby will help Master."

Harry stops Dobby and says "no Dobby. You go to Hogwarts for the summer. I will be fine. I don't want you to come here anymore unless I call you and don't send me food anymore. I don't want you to get hurt. Okay?"

Dobby wants to argue but as Harry is his master and also friend Dobby reluctantly nods and says "as master wants. Dobby will stay at the castle."

Dobby sees the wounds and says after struggling for a small minute to not say anything "Dobby want to heal Master."

Harry sees the hopefulness and pleading look. He thinks 'Dobby is here right now.'

Harry says "okay Dobby but only this time as long as I am here."

Dobby nods pops out before silently popping back in with a potion. Dobby wants to use magic but sees that most of the sallow cuts are already closed only the deeper cuts are still open but with less to no blood coming out. He closes them before giving Harry the potion.

Dobby says "Master, Dobby got blood replenishing potion. Dobby can get a dream potion."

Harry says "no Dobby, the blood replenishing potion is the only thing I need."

Harry thinks after the sentence 'with the dream potion it is probably a dreamless sleep potion and if that will wake him up too late it will even be worse than tonight.'

Dobby says "yes Master Harry. Master needs to drink this."

Harry nods before taking the vial and drinking it. After the vial is empty Dobby says "Dobby hopes Master feels better."

Harry thinks 'it is too soon to feel better.'

Harry smiles and says "I'm already feeling better and I will see you in September at Hogwarts."

Dobby bows and says reluctantly "as you wish Master"

Harry says "Dobby you are a good elf and try to help for that I am very grateful. I don't want you to tell anyone about this, please. I hope next summer is different so you can stay with me."

Dobby nods enthusiastically with tears in his eyes from happiness for being praised by Harry before popping out and returning to Hogwarts.

10th July 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

It was late at night. Harry was thinking back to two nights ago. A 'large' exotic bird flew to his window. It was a letter from Sirius. He was doing good and hopes that I got the books. He trusts Hedwig but he was accusing Dumbledore if Harry didn't get the books. Harry was happy it was night if it happened during the day or Uncle Vernon saw it happen there would be hell to pay.

Harry was able to get some water and some of the hidden owl's treats for the bird which the bird happily accepts. When the bird didn't leave means it is waiting for a response. Harry, however, could not write anything he doesn't have his ink or parchment and like when he lived in the cupboard his door was locked. Even if he could get through the cat flap he couldn't get the cupboard open where Vernon most probably locket his trunk. Also, Harry knows that there is no paper downstairs or even a pen. Maybe in Uncle Vernon's briefcase but Vernon knows he been in that the beating last time would seem like a small pat.

He has said he can't send anything to the bird and the bird leaves Harry's room. He saw Hedwig watching the bird fly away. Harry had said to Hedwig that as soon as he can he would let her fly so she can spread her wings. Hedwig had affectionally nibbled his finger as much as she could from inside her cage.

Harry wants to read in his Occlumency book but decides against it he needs to be up early as he needs to make breakfast like every morning.

12th July 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

It was early and Harry is already working on the breakfast for his relatives. When he hears the mailman almost half an hour later he is getting the letters. He hands them to Vernon who had come done about 15 minutes ago when he says "give it here boy."

Harry continues breakfast when he hears a strange scream behind him. Vernon had one letter in his hand and looks afraid at Harry. Vernon walks to the cupboard drags his trunk out and says "freak keep this in your room and like I said no unnaturalness and your bird can only be out at night, but you better keep doing your chores or else."

Vernon stood up and says "I need to go to work."

Harry wonders why as it was barely 8:15 am and normally he wouldn't leave before 9 am. Vernon left Harry sees that the letter was still on the table. He grabs it and put it in his pocket.

12th July 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

It was nighttime before Harry had time to read the letter. He grabs the letter and starts reading.

Dear Vermin,

I would introduce myself but I know the muggles know me too. I am Sirius Black and I am Harry's godfather. It has come to my attention that during the summer Harry stays at your house. I haven't forgotten how you are so let me be clear. I have ears and eyes everywhere. If you mistreat him for even one moment I won't hesitate to have a nice visit. I am sure you know what can but certainly will happen then. I have enough people that are watching you while you don't even know it. Beware.

Your worst nightmare,

Sirius Black

Harry smiles but knew that it was not true as the only ones that believe him are Hermione, Ginny, Neville and Remus. Hermione, Ginny and Neville can't look after him or even stop Vernon while Remus is together with Sirius somewhere else.

He opens his window and opens Hedwig's cage. Hedwig hoots happily and nibs his finger before opening her wings and taking flight. Harry decided to read more in the Occlumency book. He learns that after what Occlumency is in the book the first thing is meditating to empty his mind. By emptying your mind you can focus more and that is very important to have and maintain Occlumency shields. However the more you train you don't need to empty your mind every time to improve your Occlumency, but it would be harder to do it without emptying your mind but that also improves if your Occlumency shields. Occlumency can also help with your emotions, especially with processing your emotions.

31st July 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

It seems Sirius's letter makes Vernon mostly leave Harry alone besides the chores. Vernon didn't talk to Harry and only gave him the list of chores before going to work and at the weekend completely ignore Harry which was hard as Dudley needs to diet regime as he was almost as tall and he is wide the same size as a baby killer whale with his weight to match.

Dudley didn't fit his uniform from Smeltings anymore. Petunia tried to placate Dudley by making everyone follow the diet regime's food which Vernon mostly called rabbit food. Vernon needed to stop Dudley from taking out his anger and frustration on Harry. Dudley still wanted to hurt Harry until Vernon remind Dudley of his pigtail and that it would be much worse if he hit and hurt Harry. Vernon said it would only be a matter of time before he can hit Harry as hard as he wants as soon as Sirius Black is captured.

Dudley still eats more than Harry as Petunia always gave Dudley more. Harry hasn't told anyone but he has a secret stash of food Dobby gave him. When Vernon saw the food Harry had already hidden some and with Hedwig flying almost every night he got food from the Weasleys and even Hermione sent him some muggle sugar-free candy which was surprisingly tasty.

Harry was surprised that besides Hermione and Ron also Ginny, Neville, Susan and the Patil twins send him letters. Harry expected Ginny and hoped on Neville but he didn't think Susan and the Patil twins would send him letters. Hannah didn't send a letter but if she was with Susan he also wishes he has a good summer, but Harry noticed that Hannah try to find things put through Susan's letters about Neville, especially what he may like for his birthday.

It is Harry's birthday. It was the day of the year Vernon and Dudley were always in the worst mood which led mostly to pain for Harry on his birthday. He hopes that with Sirius's threat Vernon and Dudley just leave him alone like they did the last few weeks.

Because of Dudley's weight, Harry only needed to run when he went to get his gang, but because of the diet regime, Dudley was groaning and not leaving the house much as he tried to get his mother to get more food. He throws many tantrums but if he got food it was always healthy and not very much.

Harry looks at the cage. It is around lunchtime and Hedwig isn't in her cage. Harry wonders why he wasn't ordered to make breakfast maybe it was because Vernon didn't want to see him.

He does see that Errol had come with some packages and the small owl Ron got from Sirius is almost bouncing waiting for Harry to relieve him of his packages.

Harry groans when he gets off his bed. He first relieves Errol who is very grateful before he barely manages to go get the energetic owl who immediately flies away when Harry has released his package. He opens the letter from Errol first.

Dear Harry,

I want to wish you a very Happy Birthday. I send you a small birthday cake and a homemade meal. We got you some other presents but I thought it was better when you get here. Why you will get here I will let Ron tell you about his new owl. We all do hope you see you soon.

With motherly love,

Mrs. Weasley

P.S.: Arthur with Fred and George will pick you up if you want to come

Harry smiles and opens the package. He really loves Mrs. Weasley like his own mother or at least he thinks so. She always takes care of him and her homemade meals are delicious even better than Hogwarts most of the time. He never has shown love for as long as he can't remember so he doesn't know if he really loves her like a mother or just like Mrs. Weasley as a person and nothing else. Maybe he likes Mrs. Weasley like Madam Pomfrey as she also took care of him but just a bit different.

Harry sees a small cake with a flying snitch. He is hungry and starts eating. He keeps a little less than the half for Hedwig if Hedwig wants some.

Harry sees another letter and opens it.

Dear Harry,

Happy birthday. I hope you like the cake I helped my mom make it. I am not really good at cooking but with moms help, I think it will taste good or at least I hope the cake did taste well enough. Anyway, like I said happy birthday. I hope you can be here for my own birthday on the eleventh of August. I also hope you can go to the Quidditch World Cup with us daddy got enough tickets for you and Hermione.

I hope to see you soon.

Love,

Ginny

P.S.: I hope you like my card

Harry smiles and is happy to see that this one has no teardrops like the one she sends last year. He immediately thinks of the present she made last year which is one of his most prized possession only his wand, invisibility cloak and the Marauder's map is more worth to him but only slightly. Although Sirius's books are also prized but not as much as Ginny's presents mostly as she made them herself with help from her mother. He does like the card with a moving snitch and a small human that looks like him flying behind it trying to catch it. If he does catch it he releases it before chasing it again. The human has the same black hair that is untameable as his own, the human also glasses with a Gryffindor quidditch outfit with 7 on the back like his own.

Harry opens the letter the small owl brought.

Hey Harry,

How are you doing? I am fine this is my new owl Pigweidon. You can call him Pig for short. Happy Birthday. I have great news Dad got tickets for the Quidditch World Cup that is in England this time, the match is Bulgaria against Ireland. Mom won't go but we got two extra tickets for you and Hermione. Say you can come. Dad can pick you up. I hope you like the cake I send you. I can assure you the cake is very tasty.

Your best friend,

Ron

Harry smiles as he thinks 'this is a long message for Ron. I do want to go to the Quidditch World Cup. He also sends a nice card. I wonder why he also sends a cake or why he knows it tastes good.'

Errol is still tired Hedwig is still away and he needs to ask his Uncle if he can go, but at this moment his door is still locked.

He starts reading in his Occlumency book and after 15 minutes of reading, he tries to mediate, clear his mind and find the memories in his mind while filling them away.

It is almost sundown as Hedwig comes back. She has a large package that looks like a book and Harry can guess that is it from Hermione, but Hedwig has two letters and even while Hermione writes a lot she would not send two letters at least not at the same time.

He relieves Hedwig from the letters and package. Hedwig affectionally nibbles his finger before getting into her cage where Errol is still resting. She gave Errol a greeting hoot and Errol response with a sleepy hoot. Errol is the only other owl Hedwig allows in her cage if she is in it or not. It is a tight fit but Hedwig doesn't mind. Errol is her friend at least that is what it looks like maybe Hedwig allows Errol as he is the Weasley's owl and the Weasleys are good friends from her master, owner and familiar.

Hedwig notices the cake and happily starts eating finishing it in less than five minutes. While Harry is eating. Harry took the first letter and immediately notice Hermione's handwriting.

Dear Harry,

I hope you have a good summer. I am sorry I didn't write to you much as I was busy with my homework and enjoying time with my parents. They also want to wish you a happy birthday as do I. Happy birthday Harry.

I thought that you can say that Snuffles is watching you and know if your relatives are bad towards you. I don't know if you heard but the World Quidditch Cup in England this year between Ireland and Bulgaria. I don't know if you already know but Ron invited us to it together with all the other Weasleys except Mrs. Weasley. I don't know if you can go to it. If not I will also not go, but I know you would want to go. If your Uncle doesn't let you go please let me know and I will get you with my parents. Please, please, please do Harry.

I hope Snuffles has sent you a letter like he said he would. I would like to know which bird he uses so I can help you find out where he is. I hope that is enough, for now, to know that he is fine and safe somewhere warmer I guess.

I hope you have been working on you your homework and not like Ronald postpone it to the last minute even if Snuffles got your books.

Harry grins at Hermione scolding him through a letter. If he wasn't sure he would have sworn he hears Hermione scolding him for thinking she would scold him through a letter and only wants to remind him that he needs to do more than read in the new books.

Harry decides to continue to read.

I do hope you read what Snuffles said you should in your free time. I tried to find it in the library of Hogwarts but couldn't find anything. I went to Flourish and Blotts but I …. ahhh got a bit distracted when I saw they got new books and forgot to look for books about that subject. I hope I can read it after you are done and don't need it anymore.

I did get you a book as a present and it is one of the new books. Open it now before continuing with reading.

Harry wants to read on when he read: I mean it, Harry. Now first open it before continuing.

Harry wants to laugh. Hermione knows him too well, but he doesn't mind. He opens the package and sees a book called: Creatures from the ancient to the creatures of now, how they survived and how they changed to survive (if they did).

Harr smiles and sees a Hippogriff on the front blinking at him before bowing. Harry reads on after bowing his head. He is happy this book doesn't try to bite him.

I mean Harry doesn't let me know you continued before opening my gift.

As you can see it is a book about creatures. I know Hagrid is a good teacher and I like him as a teacher but this will give you extra information about the creatures we need to know for our OWL. You seem to like the class very much. I don't know if you want to continue after our OWL's but even if you don't this book will be helpful for our care of magical creatures OWL too.

I hope you like the book. It was weird though if the Hippogriff doesn't bow before you the book won't open. It took a few hours after the Hippogriff bowed before me for my own book. I, of course, bowed first but the first few times he ignored me and then didn't bow back until finally, he did.

I also got a muggle card for you I hope you like it. I also got you a cake well I tried to make it. When I had trouble I asked my mom. I don't know how it tastes as I want to give you the whole cake. If Ron said he knows how the cake taste well he certainly took a slice if not more of it. I hope to see you soon.

Love,

Hermione

Harry smiles as he sees the card. The card had a large black wolf on the front and is said Happy Birthday. Harry opens it and inside the card you see the wolf howling happy birthday with Hermione personally wishing him a happy birthday again. Harry opens the other letter. He knows he sees the handwriting before but doesn't remember from where. Harry thinks 'I will find out at the end of the letter I am sure. I can better start.'

Dear Harry,

First I want to wish you a very Happy Birthday. I was planning to send you a letter when suddenly your Owl was outside my window and heavily picking against my window to let her enter so she can take this letter to you. My own owl was waiting but your owl got mad when I wanted to give my letter for you to my own owl. She must really love you for her to do that.

Anyway, I don't know what you like so maybe you would like to have lunch with me in Hogsmeade on the first weekend we can go. I know you were there last time while you actually couldn't so you know a way, and without Dementors around I know you will enter Hogsmeade no matter what.

I would just be me and you Harry. I hope you will like that. I hope you have had a great summer so far and maybe I see you at the Quidditch World Cup. If you don't have a ticket please let me know I am sure I could get another ticket if you need one.

Love,

Susan

Harry smiles that he get a letter from someone else than Hermione and Ron. Ginny was a nice surprise but so is this one. Harry is so happy he doesn't notice all the girls end with love. He only thinks of Ron using your best friend while that is Hermione without a doubt. Harry decides to let it go as he doesn't want to argue with his first friend his age.

Suddenly a package appears and Harry opens it. Inside is a pair of homemade socks. The left one bright red with broomsticks, the right one is green with a pattern of Snitches. There was a small letter with Dobby wishing Master a Happy Birthday and hoping Master likes the socks Dobby made.

Harry thinks 'thank you Dobby. It is certainly original and I like them very much.'

Harry says "I may need to tell him that socks are supposed to be the same when they are paired up but still I love them as it is for me and it's what I like brooms and playing Quidditch. Also, he made it for me I don't matter how mismatched they are."

A large tropical bird flies in and lands on the desk. Hedwig looked like she was asleep but the moment the tropical bird silently land Hedwig's eyes shot open and has already her wings slightly open to fly and attack or protect Harry.

When Hedwig sees that the bird is just waiting to give Harry his letter and a package. Harry first grabs the package before opening it and sees another cake from Sirius. On the front in frosting writing is Happy Birthday Harry.

He grabs the letter and opens it.

Dear Harry,

I was hoping that I was with your birthday this year and let you know more about your parents. Unfortunately, it wasn't to be at least not this year. I wish I would be there with you and hug you like I should be able to. I can't tell you much about where I am but I am sure your gir… best friend Hermione Granger can figure it out.

I hope the books are helping you and when I can I will be able to help you. I can tell you why but I want to tell you that when the time is right and I see you again. I understand you may not like it but please trust me. I know you don't like secrets, something being kept from you especially if Dumbledore didn't change but I ask you to trust me and I will tell you when I think you are ready or at least be able to handle it.

Harry doesn't like it but he trusts him especially as Sirius promises to tell him will Dumbledore never said he would tell him. Sure Dumbledore said he doesn't know why Voldemort is after him but Harry some knew Dumbledore does or at least has an idea.

Harry reads on.

Harry, I got you a cake in the package. I remember what you liked in your youth according to your parents so I hope you like the cake. Moony wants to wish you a happy birthday too and the cake is also from him he wants me to say. He also hopes to see you soon as I hope. We both hope I am a free man at the time.

Anyway, pup happy Birthday.

With all our love,

Marauder Padfoot
Marauder Moony

Harry smiles as he sees them using their Marauder name for the chance the letter gets intercepted. The only one that knows a name is Snape when he tried to read the map. Well, Wormtail also knows but he thinks Wormtail isn't able to incept them without someone noticing him, muggle or magical.

Just before the sun is completely set the owl flies in before immediately leaving. The owl has two letters. He knows one is from Hagrid but he first grabs the other one. Harry opens the letter and is pleasantly surprised.

Dear Harry,

I know I didn't do it before but as I was good friends with your parents and other things that can be talked about later I do wish you a happy birthday. I don't know what you would like while I should be able to know. I was thinking and decide to give you an advanced book about Transfiguration as from what I have seen so far you are near your father's ability in transfiguration. The book is mostly for six and seventh years but if you can do this when you reach your NEWT class for transfiguration I may give you something above NEWT level. I don't know if you like it but I gave your father this when I saw his ability. I hope this gives you a bit more connection to your father.

Again I wish you a happy birthday. Madam Pomfrey and your professors including the other head of house except for Professor Snape also like to wish you a happy birthday. They want you safe as Sirius Black has escaped. I heard from Miss Granger and Miss Weasley that he is innocent and I hope they are right as I do for you.

Yours sincerely,

Professor Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Head of Gryffindor House
Transfiguration Professor

Harry opens the second letter and reads.

Dear Harry,

I hope you have a good summer. I send you a cake I made myself and I hope you like it. The Hippogriffs are a bit restless as their alpha is gone but somehow still not one has stepped up to take the lead like they just know Buckbeak will come back. Oooh, how I hope so even his mate misses him.

Anyway Harry happy birthday.

Hagrid

Later the same day Harry thinks 'it seems Sirius's threat works but the question is for how long.'

It seems like Harry cursed himself as suddenly his door slams open and a drunk Uncle Vernon and a starved Dudley walk in. Dudley heard from Vernon that Harry got very nice food a few weeks ago and Dudley probably suspected he had it again but when he doesn't see any food anywhere he starts to swing at Harry. Harry has hidden the cakes he hasn't eaten immediately.

Vernon in his drunken state and also feeling hungry grabs his belt to swing at Harry. It was almost half an hour later when Dudley walks away. Hedwig had woken up and was heavily shrieking to scare Vernon away. Vernon didn't notice Hedwig until she started shrieking.

When Harry sees Vernon approaching Hedwig Harry shouts "NO" and with his magic push him to the wall hard. It was accidental magic and Vernon limps as his left leg is severely hurt and his right arm has a large gash. Harry managed to stand up and says only two words loudly "Sirius Black."

It seems the push to the wall and Harry's loud voice sobers Vernon up enough to remember the letter and quickly leaves Harry's room. Vernon closes the door and locks the locks on the outside of his door.

It was barely an hour before the sun was down and Harry closed the window a little to pretend nothing has come today but he opened it completely seconds after Vernon left before he went to lie down on his bed. Harry made sure the window was open enough for Hedwig to leave Normally Hedwig will leave the moment he opens the window if it is night as she likes to fly and sometimes hunts but now she doesn't. She does leave her cage but instead of flying out, she flies to Harry who was groaning on his bed in his slip. Harry had fallen asleep while still heavily bleeding but now two hours later most of the wounds stopped bleeding and the more shallow ones had closed but many are still open on his back two on his chest and three on his legs. Harry has many bruises from Dudley's fits. Harry was able to protect his face so he doesn't get bruises there or any blood.

It was almost an hour later that Hedwig leaves when she sees Harry is easily breathing and felt that Harry while in pain will be alright in time. When she is sure she leaves flying as quickly as possible to do some hunting as besides the cake she would like some mice. She didn't stay too long away as she didn't want to leave her master alone. Within 30 minutes she flies into the room and her cage.

1st August 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

He hears the lock on his door being unlocked and Harry immediately stands up while he groans from the pain that he got last night. Every morning that the locks on his door he is forced to make breakfast. He waits for the door to open, but nobody opens the door. Through the cat flap, his food is pushed through.

Harry is confused as on the tray is some normal food for once, no bad food or barely able food like normal. It is also more than normal, still not as much as Dudley gets but this is the closest he ever got to the amount Dudley gets.

Harry can't believe it. After almost 15 minutes he grabs the tray and put it on his desk. The soup is cold but still nice and the only thing that wasn't vegetables in the house in the form of eggs and bacon are also cold. Harry tears the bacon appeared and gives some to Hedwig who happily hoots although she likes her bacon warmer.

When Harry had given Hedwig some bacon he tries to open the door and sees that the door is open as he suspected. He slowly and silently walks to the stairs. He doesn't hear voices but he does hear the tv and that breakfast is eaten. Well, he does hear Dudley complaining but that almost sounds like a whale talking.

He wants to tell Sirius what has happened but that is Harry's own fault as Harry isn't strong enough to defend himself. At least that is what he thinks. Harry also doesn't want to worry Sirius and Remus. If Harry tells them he is afraid Sirius will do something reckless and comes here. If he is caught in England he can still be given the Dementor kiss without getting a trial.

As he is out of England Aurors are allowed to capture him but not give him the Dementor kiss at least not as long as he is in another country as most countries have banned Dementors or the use of it, not Harry knows that.

Harry thanks Sirius and Remus, says he is okay and that he may go to the Quidditch World Cup but that he needs to ask Vernon. He also says the same hope that Sirius would find a way to get free so he can live with him and if Remus wants Remus to. It seems the bird has left but stayed around the house until Harry writes a reply.

In less than five minutes the letter is done. He gave the bird a few owl traits and some water before sending the bird back to Sirius hoping that most of the neighbourhood is still asleep or at least not watching outside.

Harry sees Mrs. Figg watching outside and gave a small wave when she sees Harry. Harry gave a small smile and went away from the window leaving it open so Errol can leave when he is fully rested and noticed Hedwig is sleeping again or pretending to sleep again.

Harry decides to pet Hedwig. When he gives her a scratch Hedwig happily and sleepily hoots in delight. Around lunch, Errol leaves as Errol probably doesn't have anything pressing to do. Harry again gets a nice amount of food like in the morning that gets pushed through his cat flap even though the door isn't locked but his aunt didn't use the door. Harry had also hasn't opened the door after the morning to know what was going on.

2nd August 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

Harry wakes up very rested. It is possible as he was left alone yesterday and didn't need to do any chores so he had time to rest after the first few weeks. When Harry thinks about his birthday he gets a big smile as he got five cakes.

He got one from Mrs. Weasley and Ginny and it was homemade. The same was from Hermione, and it tasted delicious he must admit not as good as Mrs. Weasley and Ginny, but it was very close. Sirius send him one but he would bet his wand that Sirius didn't make it as it was tasty.

Hermione was right Ron's cake was small, and he could easily see Ron had eaten quite a bit from it, but at least he was right it was tasty but far away from Mrs. Weasley's and Ginny's cake. Hagrid also sends him one and it didn't like his rock cakes and more on the birthday cake he got the first time he met Hagrid. The one was tasty like the first one. Hagrid made it himself as he does most and it tasted good but again Mrs. Weasley, Ginny, Hermione and her mother tasted better but not by much Hagrid's is maybe even better than Hermione's and her mothers are too close to call.

Harry hears the locks on his door open and this time the door opens. His Aunt with an angry scowl says "get up you will make breakfast."

Harry almost wants to shrug. He stands up as he has already dressed he follows his Aunt to the kitchen. It was Tuesday so his uncle needs to go to work. He was busy when his Uncle comes downstairs. Vernon ignores him but has a scowl on his face but that was normal on Vernon's face, especially on the mornings he needs to work.

Harry tries to talk to Vernon but the only thing Vernon says is "not now, boy. Make the breakfast freak."

Harry continue and after his own small breakfast like the last few weeks except yesterday he got a list of chores. Vernon says 'finish it before dinner, make dinner and I may listen as long as it is not about any of your unnatural weirdness."

Vernon said everything with a scowl before standing up waggling to the front door and getting in his car to go to his job. Dudley isn't done much later than Vernon and says he is going out. Petunia does nothing to stop Dudley and just says "okay Dudders try to be back before dinner though. I will make you a healthy dinner I know you love."

Dudley just says "okay" before closing the front door.

Petunia says "get to your chores freak."

Harry turns around and rolls his eyes before he starts working on his chores.

2nd August 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

Harry was cleaning the dishes as it was a chore on his list. It was his last chore of the day as he managed to do the others before dinner like he needed to do. When Harry is done he walks toward his Uncle Vernon.

Harry says "Uncle Vernon I am done."

Vernon groans and takes a hard breath. He says "what do you want boy?"

Harry says "the Weasley family invited and asked me to go to a world cup of a sport that is very popular in my world as I am friends with some of them."

Vernon says immediately "I won't pay for you to go to some godforsaken sport of your unnaturalness and certainly would not take you there."

Harry says "you don't have to pay. You don't have to bring me. They will get me and take me to King's Cross Station on September 1st. That means you also don't have to bring me. I can ask if they have a way to get me without showing up at the front door. I wonder what my godfather will say if I am not allowed to go. I didn't send it when you were drunk but may I just remember what you did."

Harry barely suppress the smug smile he wanted to give Vernon. Vernon is getting red from rage. He thinks 'how dare this freak threaten me.'

Vernon's rage almost immediately decreased as he thinks 'wait the freak will be gone and I don't need to bring the freak to King's Cross Station on September 1st. Great, let those Weasley's take the freak.'

Vernon says "Well, all right then. You can go to this ruddy ... this stupid ... this World Cup thing. You write and tell these... these Weasleys they're to pick you up, mind. I haven't got time to go dropping you off all over the country. And you can spend the rest of the summer there. And you can tell you... your godfather ... tell him ... tell him you're going."

Harry doesn't say anything as he is afraid he can't keep the smile and happiness but also smug smile from his voice. Harry nods and says "I will let them know and try to make sure they get here another way."

Vernon says "you better do. Now get out of my sight I am watching TV and don't want you freak of a presence."

Harry doesn't care what Vernon says Harry is too happy and he doesn't care what people say about him. He can handle it as he has lived with it all his life. Only if his relatives start about his parents or friends he would lose his temper like Marge last year insulted his mother and father.

True when Snape or Malfoy does it he also lashes out. Harry knows he needs to try to control his emotions but he didn't want to lose his friends by not protecting them. His parents gave their lives for him and he won't accept anything bad said about them.

As Vernon, Petunia normally and sometimes Dudley did it since he can remember he doesn't care if they say anymore but this year they didn't start the day he returned or any other days. It seems attacking Marge made them not say anything about his parents.

Harry writes to the Weasleys that he can come and that he just needs to know when they come but that his relatives prefer if they come some other way than the front door to get him. He waits with sending Hermione a letter until he knows when he is going to get picked up by the Weasleys.

Harry suddenly thinks 'Padma and Parvati send me letters before my birthday but not on my birthday I wonder why. Oh yes, they said they will be out of the country a few days after they send me a letter until the last week and a half of August.'

Something they did also during Yule when they were just back in time for something that they didn't like but Harry was hurting because of the fight with Hermione so he didn't really pay them any attention. They talked to him a bit when they noticed he didn't really listen they stopped until he made up and then when they talked he did listen to what they seemed to appreciate as they talked to him more towards the end of the school year.

Harry decides it doesn't matter right now but is a little disappointed when suddenly he remembers Katie also didn't send anything but he also remembers her saying something about being on vacation somewhere on the mainland from halfway July to somewhere in August. He doesn't remember the exact dates if Katie even knew them. Harry was too preoccupied when Katie said about her plans for the summer.

Harry also thinks 'I wonder if I can get something for Neville. I hoped he always sent me something maybe I can see something in Diagon Alley about herbology Neville likes it a lot. I wish I knew more about what girls like well other girls than Hermione. Hermione likes books so that is simple and Ginny did seem to like the jewellery I gave her but I can't give her anything like that again. I don't know how much m parents left me but I can't be endless and that jewellery wasn't cheap even after the discount. I don't know how much pound Sterling is Galleons but still.

Katie like Hermione's (, Angelina and Alicia) parents are muggles not that Harry minded but he sees that muggles and wizards/ witches without roots in other countries are very different. While muggles intend to travel wizards and witches do not unless their roots are in different countries as he remembers that Padma and Parvati at the beginning of last school year said they were in India for most of the summer.

Harry decided to focus on his homework as Hermione was right he didn't really work on it.

3rd August 1994, Privet Drive 4, Little Whining, Surrey, England

Harry wakes up by hooting. It seems Hedwig returned with a letter.

He opens the letter and sees that is the answer from Mr. Weasley.

Harry,

That is great to hear that you can come. I will bring the twins with me to get you. I am sure I can arrange something else. I and the twins will pick you up on the 10th of August at 6:30 PM so you can have dinner with us. We got a large dinner that night as the next day I need to work while it is Ginny's birthday. It is a busy few weeks for everyone in the ministry including my department. I am sure I can pick you up with the twins on the 10th on time though.

I don't know if you know but Percy moves out that night as he got a job in the Department of International Magical Cooperation in the ministry of magic. He is going to be the junior assistant to the department head. It is a very high position for your first job, but he has been head-boy and had top grades for his NEWT. I am proud of him I will not lie. Unfortunately, he will not be coming to the Quidditch World Cup as part of our group he will be there as a junior assistant.

To help you with your relatives. Molly has sent a letter through muggle mail and should be here this morning to make sure that you are not lying and we really invite you. I don't know how your relatives are but it would be sure that we really want to have you also that you can stay for the rest of the summer with us.

I will see you on the 10th,

Arthur Weasley

Harry looks shocked and is afraid of the letter. Mr. Weasley knows a bit about the muggle world he mostly sees things differently than they really are. He hopes the postman just delivers the mail and he can keep it away from them to not antagonize mostly Uncle Vernon.

He read in his Occlumency books to try to not worry over the coming letter and put it away when he hears the locks unlocking again. He already stands up ready to go downstairs and start with breakfast.

Harry is very nervous. He is looking out of the window hoping to see the mailman coming or just leaving ready to intercept the letter so to speak. While Harry is busy with breakfast the doorbell rings. Harry wants to go the door when Vernon angrily says "boy stay. Get the breakfast ready I will get the door."

Harry hears the mailman laughing about a certain letter and Harry already knows that the chance it is the letter from Mrs. Weasley is pretty big. Vernon slams the door very hard and Harry sees the mailman laughing walking to the next house through the window.

Vernon storms in with a red face full of anger. He throws the letter unopened on the kitchen table. Harry looks and sees the whole letter full of the stamps unless the top right corner where the stamps usually go. In that small space was the address was written.

Harry says "Mrs. Weasley send me a letter that they would send a letter to let you make sure that I didn't lie to you."

Vernon is still standing and opens the letter. After he is done reading he throws it on the table and says "fine. Let them know you can go, but …."

Harry sees Vernon's face getting redder with anger but before he could probably hit Harry or worse. Harry says "I will let SIRIUS BLACK know."

Vernon scowls but didn't say anything and walks back to the couch he was sitting on. Harry quickly finishes preparing breakfast. He grabs the letter and put it in his pocket.

After breakfast was done Harry says before doing the dishes "the Weasley's will pick me up on the 10th of August. I already send a letter last night but obviously, it was too late as Mrs. Weasley already sent this letter."

Vernon only groans while Petunia ignores him Dudley is whining for more food.

Later in Harry's room, he reads the letter Mrs. Weasley sent his relatives.

Dear Mr and Mrs Dursley,

We have never been introduced, but I am sure you have heard a great deal from Harry about my son Ron.

As Harry might have told you, the final of the Quidditch World Cup takes place Thursday the 25th, and my husband, Arthur, has just managed to get prime tickets through his connections at the Department of Magical Games and Sports. I do hope you will allow us to take Harry to the match, as this really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Britain hasn't hosted the cup for thirty years, and tickets are extremely hard to come by. We would, of course, be glad to have Harry stay for the remainder of the summer holidays, and to see him safely onto the train back to school.

It would be best for Harry to send us your answer as quickly as possible in the normal way because the Muggle postman has never delivered to our house, and I am not sure he even knows where it is.

Hoping to see Harry soon,

Yours sincerely,

Molly Weasley

P.S. I do hope we've put enough stamps on.

Harry resist laughing out loud and immediately start his chores while chuckling every time his aunt was not around.

I will end here for now. In the next chapter, we go back a little bit in time to see what is going on in other houses a little bit. Also, Harry's first nightmare and he will be picked up by the Weasley's, some fun at the Weasley's house. If words allow it he will also reach the Quidditch World Cup.

Please read and review. PMs are also appreciated.