Chapter 21 The Learning Curve
3rd September 1993, Hospital Wing, Hogwarts
Professor McGonagall nods understanding. Professor McGonagall says "I see. Now let me explain why you feel like this and the importance of Harry's magic inside you. It shows that you care about him or your magic would fight against his magic inside you. It is important to know that, how the magic feels in you is important. I don't mean what the magic feels like but how it is compared to your own magic. The question is does the magic feel foreign, opposite of you, dangerous or even evil?"
Hermione gets mad, jumps up and screams at Professor McGonagall, "HOW DARE YOU CALL HARRY'S MAGIC EVIL! HOW DARE YOU! HARRY'S MAGIC FEELS WONDERFUL!"
Hermione's mind finally caught up, and she fell back in the chair. Susan looks shocked at her. Daphne recognizes that she did feel quite a bit angry at Professor McGonagall, although Hermione's reaction was not even close. Daphne is happy her father raised her as a Slytherin or she would probably react the same way as Hermione, although she would probably not be screaming.
Professor McGonagall isn't angry, more the opposite, as she has a smile on her face, one she normally never shows to students.
Hermione says softly, "I am very sorry, Professor McGonagall, for screaming and disrespecting you."
Professor McGonagall says "I appreciate it Miss Granger, but no need to apologize for a girl in your situation."
Hermione asks worried, "What situation? Please, Professor McGonagall, can you please explain I am afraid something is wrong with me."
Professor McGonagall gives a gentle smile before she says "Nothing is wrong with you Miss Granger. It is unusual regarding your age, but nothing is wrong. I think it will even be wonderful."
All three girls look surprised at Professor McGonagall, although Daphne doesn't show it. It surprised Professor McGonagall that Susan seemed surprised, although she mistook it for not knowing about magical bonds as all the evidence points that way.
She asks "Miss Bones, didn't your aunt tell you about bonds in my time all the pureblood and half-blood girls who were magically raised or their mother was the magical in their family were told about magical bonds."
Susan shakes her and says, "No, Professor McGonagall, my auntie never told me."
Professor McGonagall asks herself more than anyone else, "I wonder why? It will not surprise me if the darker families never tell their daughters, maybe not even their sons, but lighter families or light families like House Bones. I would suspect she would tell you if she knows, of course."
Madam Pomfrey says "Minerva, I guess that is better that none of them knows until you tell them as it would make it easier to tell them what we knew or told us although something may be hard for them to accept or…."
Professor McGonagall looks at Madam Pomfrey as she says, "Barbaric, I know. It was like her favourite word when she was told, although I cannot disagree on some points when I look back at it."
Professor McGonagall looks at the girls and says, "Let me explain the bonds. I can understand, Miss Bones, that your aunt didn't tell you as I came to the realisation some time ago that many different kinds of bonds have been 'forgotten' by the wizarding world but I thought that the Ancient Houses would still know and teach their children no matter the gender."
"Also, many of the bonds come from a long time ago and much information has been forgotten so I don't even know if what me and Madam Pomfrey were told by a woman with the bond is the complete truth or not even though we completely trust her. I can, however, tell you what was told to myself and Madam Pomfrey what we have seen happened."
"It, also, came to my attention that all bonds are banned although most of the bonds happen for different reasons without the intention to form a bond, but the core of most of those bonds is there which is love, meaning the Ministry cannot ban it. They can ban teaching them and remove all information or mention it in books and the like which is what they did. I also know that they didn't single those bonds out but banned all bonds and rituals. As magic makes the bond not teaching the rituals doesn't make a lot of difference."
Hermione immediately feels sad as there is knowledge kept from her and that books don't hold all the answers as her first idea was to look for a book after Professor McGonagall could explain this to her. She suddenly realizes that a book isn't her top priority. She has the want and need to first find Harry even though according to Madam Pomfrey the wounds are closed; he is not in danger and most importantly, he is still inside the castle.
Hermione asks "Can you please explain, Professor McGonagall? I am starting to get afraid …. and I want to find Harry soon. I need to see him…. to see if he is fine, I mean."
Hermione is heavily blushing as it feels like all the feelings she had for Harry come up, although she tries to keep herself from admitting it. She just tells herself that Harry needs his best friend and, thanks to a miracle, she is his best friend.
Professor McGonagall smiles before she says, "Of course, Hermione. I would prefer if none of you would interrupt me. Poppy, if you have anything to add, be my guest."
The girls agree, as does Madam Pomfrey.
Professor McGonagall asks herself, "Now where to begin? I guess I can better start at the beginning."
"The bond I and Madam Pomfrey suspect that is here is called a soul bond, and it is seen as one of the purest bonds there is. There isn't much known by those who don't have it but even though I never had it there are some things that I found out after someone with the bond told me. One of those things is that the bond, the soul bond, has been here from the beginning of time, even before magic was granted to us humans."
"Centuries ago, after magic was granted to humans, the witch and wizard were never considered officially married unless one bond formed with the soul bond being the highest bond and if you tried to break it in any way, you would be punished by the highest and most cruel way possible. However, what it was depended on the crime you committed or admitted to planning. The other bounds were also the evidence of being married but were not in that high regard as marriages with the soul bond."
"Miss Granger, what I might tell you right now may seem weird as it is almost not used anymore in the muggle world. It was a time before the marriage contract became commonly used for magical Houses and to this time still used by many Houses even if it is only to make sure the witch and wizard try to become friends before a relationship starts or to make sure that the witch and wizard stay together and be protected. Some may say it even to protect their child from the insecurities of adolescents with feelings for the opposite gender."
"Unfortunately, there are also marriage contracts which are downright evil towards the witch and are mostly used by the dark lower Houses to gain either money and power or to be able to advantage their House to get a seat in the government and make the House more powerful by being higher in the hierarchy of Houses even if they already have a seat it just raises their House."
"Miss Granger, if you want to know more about houses and the government, I am sure there is a book about the government in the library. There used to be a book about houses and more but that book is gone, however, I think Miss Bones and Miss Greengrass can help you in that regard as they are both of influential houses and are probably taught by their father and in Miss Bones case her aunt."
Hermione glances at Susan and she happily nods. She looks at Daphne, who slowly nods, clearly being reluctant. Hermione will find out why she is reluctant. Hermione wonders about Harry.
Professor McGonagall answers Hermione's silent question "Yes, Harry's House is very influential and is very high in the hierarchy of houses and also has a seat in the government. Before you ask, Miss Granger, Harry has already been taught a bit, as you may have noticed, and he starts to look like the Heir he should be. There is still time for him to learn more about his House, his rights and how to act."
Professor McGonagall wants to tell Harry has help, but that is Harry's choice to tell not her unless Harry allows her to tell, but he isn't here to decide. Also, besides Susan, both probably need Harry's own words to believe that Sirius is indeed innocent as she knows they will not believe her unless Harry says it himself, not even Hermione who believes in authority figures.
"Back to the bond. When marriage contracts started to be accepted to signify marriages, the use of bonds became outdated. The wizards used that to their advantage, although not all wizards. Some houses still only used the bonds and other houses were fair in their marriage contracts."
"Many houses didn't care about having a bond anymore. It was that time that many houses started to get connected through marriage or keep the fortune in the family by marrying and having children with a close relative."
"When the ministry was made very soon afterwards, the wizards pretended that the bonds were a danger, or maybe they even really believed it. It doesn't matter as in the end it is all the same: the bonds became banned, but like I said before, they cannot ban it as magic decides and they cannot manipulate most of the bonds neither to make it or ban it. I don't know for sure but my and Madam Pomfrey's friend said that in past marriages contracts were nullified because a bond was formed and magic nullified the contract even if the contract was supposed to be unbreakable, not that our friend was part of a marriage contract but she told us that she had read it in the library she had at her house."
"Before you ask Miss Granger the library and, all the books were destroyed, to our knowledge. Now to the point of magic inside of you and the thoughts you explained. I want to make sure you know I as Madam Pomfrey, don't know all but we know a bit."
Professor McGonagall takes a deep breath, as the history was much easier than the next part. She looks mostly to Hermione as she continues.
"The bond is pure, however, the stronger the wizard, the earlier the bond can be corrupted. Harry is really strong and….. I don't only mean magical."
Hermione, Susan and Daphne immediately understand Professor McGonagall when she says that not only magically. It is a wonder that Harry is how he is with clearly the abuse he has endured. Daphne and Susan find it a wonder Harry didn't turn out to be an Obscurial. The only reason Harry cannot be is that he is mentally impossibly strong for his age to prevent the magic inside him from turning into a dark parasite.
Nobody commented on it further, which made Professor McGonagall continue.
"The magic inside you is much more than just that he cares or even loves you. For him to leave a part of his magic inside you that doesn't weaken him and as Hermione clearly stated doesn't harm you, fights against you and may even feel …. good, is one of the signs of the soul bond."
Hermione blushes again and stares at the ground. She still can't believe she screamed at her idol …. at the Professor she admired the most. All because she disrespected Harry, which made her very mad.
Professor McGonagall notices the blush and decides to immediately continue to not make Hermione even more embarrassed.
"It doesn't show you love but equally important he trusts you as while it doesn't weaken him, it is still a part of him that he leaves in you as he trusts you with a part of himself."
"The witches inside of us desire a strong wizard. Harry is indeed a strong wizard especially for his age while it is normal witches are stronger as they are more mature and I don't really mean physical as well mentally at this age. Witches, just like muggle females, enter adolescence earlier than wizards and males. That is one of the many similarities between muggles and magical. This means that in earlier adolescence, witches are stronger and taller than most wizards."
"Harry is the exception, as there are always exceptions. His father wasn't as strong as Harry at this age, but not far behind. As Harry is stronger than most if not all witches around his age, I think James was about as strong as the witches at this age, which is still rare and makes him a lot more powerful than the wizards, especially when he grew up. Also, I want to say that it doesn't mean that all witches will be weaker than the wizards when they are all full-grown. Some powerful witches are stronger than most wizards, but there are more wizards stronger than witches."
"There are many witches who are more proficient in certain kinds of magic than wizards, which differs in what kind of magic witches are proficient in, as it also differs between witches, meaning not all the witches are proficient in the same kind. Most of the time witches are stronger in a kind of magic while the wizard is stronger in the end and certainly overall, but not as strong of the witch the kind of magic she is proficient in."
"However, I digress. Like I said, the witches inside of us desire a strong wizard. It is natural for witches to do that as naturally as we do to use magic. Our friend thought that witches desire a strong wizard because we have magic, and the magic drives the witches."
"I want to make sure you all know that just because a wizard is strong doesn't mean that you will love him just because he is strong. There are still other things to make you love him. Also, with strong, we don't only mean magic, they are different kinds of strong and different parts of someone. One can be strong in magic while the other is strong mentally, and another is strong in politics, and so on."
Daphne suddenly understands why her mother loves her father so much, even though she loves them both too, like a loving daughter should. It does make clear that her mother probably fell for his political Slytherin mind, which she probably valued the most although she knows her father is no slouch in magic. Maybe it was combined like Harry is both magically strong and certainly mentally strong which is clear, after the horrendous sight of what happened to Harry, that Harry is still a good person, if not even better.
Professor McGonagall continues, "It is important to know that weak wizards cannot make a soul bond. We have a theory as to why, but as we cannot test the theory because of the ministry ban we don't know for sure. What our friend told us supports the theory. Poppy, if you please?"
Madam Pomfrey nods and starts talking.
"Our friend talked about it a bit and I came up with a theory which Professor McGonagall even though our friend wasn't sure although her husband was many things, but a weak wizard certainly wasn't one of them."
"It is important to know that by weak wizards we mean wizards who aren't powerful magically speaking, but as said before, just being strong isn't enough to make the bond and also strong wizards and witches didn't get a soul bond."
"My theory is the reason why weak wizards won't get a soul bond. My theory is that the wizard's magic creates the bond. Weak wizards don't have the power to create the bond. I don't think wizards can control their magic to make the bond as magic does it on its own. Even if wizards can control their magic to make the bond, I am sure weak wizards lack the control to do so."
"I think that the wizard must accept the bond, or at least somehow start the bond. I must admit that having a wizard this young creates a bond with girls his age or if wizards don't create a bond, another way at this age is unheard of. Of course, history from most if not all bonds were destroyed or the time has made them forgotten, so I cannot honestly say this is the first time, but it is certainly the first in recent times."
"Our friend was a mature witch when she bonded with her husband. Unfortunately, she has died as is her husband. Others who we suspected were bound are also dead. We don't have anyone who can help, but there is maybe a place where there is some information, but at this moment it isn't accessible."
"Our friend did say that when the bond starts, you feel something inside of you. I am not talking about the thoughts you admitted, Miss Granger, although it is a sign. Of course, some witches and wizards, for that matter, discover their sexuality at your age which includes some fantasies in many forms. It means that some witches show the sign, but it actually isn't a sign, it is just some fantasies they would like to happen or get them aroused. Not every fantasy that got you aroused do you want to happen, though."
Hermione starts to be embarrassed seeing herself as a perverted slut.
Madam Pomfrey sees it happening and says immediately, "I don't think that is what is happening here, Miss Granger. You show more than just that one sign, like feeling Harry's magic and accepting his magic inside as you or your magic isn't fighting against his magic."
"If you haven't felt anything especially, you, Miss Granger, doesn't mean there isn't a bond as I said before. I think something must happen to awaken or activate the bond or the wizard must accept the bond and therefore also accept those who have the bond with him as this will go much further romantically."
"When the bond is activated, you will surely feel something although I cannot tell you what you can feel as our friend didn't tell us what she felt also she was a mature witch so it may be different from what a girl your age will feel."
All the girls think about what it would feel like especially Susan hopes that Madam Pomfrey is right as she will be devastated if Harry has bonded with his other wives and not her. She has similar thoughts to Hermione about a dominant Harry. She hasn't felt anything different except being completely happy that Harry knows and accepts her as one of his future wives. She is still a bit surprised that while it isn't ideal; she doesn't mind that she isn't Harry's only wife. Although that may also be as her Aunt is happy for Susan, Harry is what she has seen so far and Harry accepted her marriage contract without reservation despite his muggle upbringing.
Professor McGonagall decides to take over. She says "I thought this would be important for you girls to know before I would continue. I do want to add that most of this is speculation and deduction by what our friend told us which formed the theory."
"I will be blunt here. Some bonds of old would continue to strengthen over the years. Those bonds had one condition similar to completing the bond, and that is being intimate with your husband or wife. By intimate, I mean the ultimate form of being intimate. We think that your bond has the same condition as our friend's bond as we think you have the same bond as her."
As all the girls blush, Professor McGonagall is certain that they understand what she means. The ultimate form of being intimate is having sex, not rape or anything similar so maybe it is better to say the ultimate form of being intimate is making love.
Professor McGonagall didn't say anything for a couple of minutes. She also thinks she wouldn't get the girls' attention. She would be right as all the girls imagine how their first night with Harry would be and how it will play out which makes them all happy and more aroused than they ever have been before. It wasn't the first time they thought about it but the bond brought them more pleasure, which in turn made them more aroused.
After a few minutes Hermione asks "You said, the bond can be corrupted, Professor McGonagall, and it has to do, with Harry being powerfully magical? Can you explain how or why? You never really explained that."
Professor McGonagall knew she didn't tell them why or how. She hoped they would forget but she should have known Hermione would remember when she looked Daphne had the same look as Hermione wanting to know, while Susan seemed to remember that when Hermione mentioned it.
Professor McGonagall looks at Madam Pomfrey and she says, "You can better tell them, Minerva. They should know as…."
Professor McGonagall interrupts Madam Pomfrey and says, "Yes, I know why."
She turns back to the girls and says, "Miss Gra…. Hermione, you are right. I didn't tell you. I preferred not to tell you but Madam Pomfrey is right that you should now. You all have the right to know, especially regarding other girls that may be affected."
Hermione almost screams "OTHER GIRLS?!"
Professor McGonagall nods and says, "Yes, Harry is after all very powerful, but I will come back on that shortly."
Everyone can see that Hermione doesn't like that, but the promise Professor McGonagall made that she will tell shortly makes Hermione remain seated and want to know everything. She believes in Professor McGonagall as an authority figure, but she finally starts to admit to herself that if Harry wants something different, especially from her, she will do what Harry wants.
However, as he isn't here, her thirst for knowledge, especially something she can't learn in a book and it involves Harry makes her stay here instead of searching for Harry. She can barely control her body from standing up and leaving the Hospital wing to search every inch of Hogwarts and its grounds until she finds him even if she needs to face the Dementors to do so.
Professor McGonagall seems to notice and says "I will keep it short, Hermione and I am sure you want to find Harry. Honestly, I want to find Harry too, at least to make sure he is healthy. Also, I need to let some people know about this. Anyway, how and why the bond can be corrupted?"
"The bond itself cannot be corrupted, the witches affected by the bond can until the most intimate of acts form and completes the bond. However, the longer the bond there is, the more difficult it is to corrupt witches. With Harry as the wizard, I am almost completely sure that sooner rather than later, even before the bond is completed, the witches cannot be corrupted. However, as the bond hasn't started ….. yet, the witches can still be corrupted."
"The most important part is that Harry accepts the bond and gives you his attention. If a powerful wizard gives a witch attention, even if it is only by acknowledgement at first, the chance of being corrupted decreases. However, the longer the witch knows the wizard, the more attention the witch wants from the wizard. At least that is what our friend told us and she should know. Her husband gave her more than enough attention, but according to her, it did happen more than once in the recorded history she had access to. She also said that after completing the bond while she still desires attention, it isn't needed anymore to prevent corruption as the bonded couple never fell to corruption in recorded history."
"I did ask her what would happen if something like that happened. A wizard doesn't give a witch that he can have a bond with enough attention. According to our friend, the witch starts to seek someone else who acknowledges her or tries to make the wizard see that she is worthy of being acknowledged, as others do acknowledge her. There were more situations where the witches were corrupted and even a few where the wizard was, but this is the one she did explain. We think that it should be the same with accepting the bond or not."
The girls are becoming anxious especially Hermione as she knows how Harry is and that he will not like this even if it is only because he thinks he will take their choice away from them.
Hermione asks "Is it our choice to bond?"
Professor McGonagall smiles and says, "In a certain way, it is indeed a choice, but still magic makes the bond. You cannot choose to have the bond or not. The only choice you have is that of who the wizard is and then it is not completely your own choice as the magic of the bond helps. Still, we believe the wizard's magic starts the bond and, as I said before, there are more conditions than just having the bond. There must be attraction or the magic will not make the bond as an example."
"I will admit there have been bonds according to our friend that shouldn't have happened as the witch and wizards didn't like each other romantically or don't hate each other, but were lusting after each other what the magic mistook as love. It was lust instead of love."
"I think it is important to tell you if Harry doesn't accept the bond after a time, you will start to search for the first wizard that gives you any form of attention. It doesn't even have to be good attention. Your magic will change the feelings it feels from Harry to the other wizards, even if the wizard doesn't like you at all, so there would be no love. The bond will form as magic will use the magic of Harry that is inside you, completely removing it from you, but you will keep your own magic. It is more likely than not that everything you feel for Harry, including those thoughts and behaviour, will also be changed to the new wizard, no matter how strong or weak the new wizard is. That is the way the bond and witch can get corrupted in the soul bonds."
"I don't know much about the other bonds as I never met someone with another bond and the books I did read about the bonds didn't give much information and as I have no reference or see anyone with those signs, I don't think it is needed to discuss."
"That reminds me the only bond the ministry accepts are life-debts as that is also decided by magic, which still happens more than you can think although Gringotts must also acknowledge them among some other conditions to be officially acknowledged by the ministry. One of the conditions is that a high-ranking ministry member is present when it happens or very shortly after to see how the people that are affected behave towards each other."
"As it is a witch and wizard, the one who owes the life debt will act differently depending on the opinion before the event. If they like the other, the witch will try to be more affectionate. I think if the wizard likes the witch, the wizard will try to impress the witch if he owes the witch the life debt for example."
"Anyway, back to the point. I want to make it clear. Corruption is a real danger. however feeling Harry's magic at this age and also the importance of him leaving a part inside you, Hermione is simply remarkable. It will also help with the corruption in the form of preventing it especially if it feels as good as you say, Hermione."
"It is surprising, to say the least, that Harry already left behind some magic, as we were told that it shouldn't happen until the witch and wizard are completely bonded. Our friend said that it did happen the night that they completed the bond, although she thought that maybe a small part was already there, but she didn't notice. You do Hermione and that is why it is remarkable, as feeling his magic has nothing to do with your own magic."
Hermione immediately says "I didn't do that."
Madam Pomfrey says "I know you didn't, Miss Granger. When I examine girls, there is a spell with lets me know if the girl is still a virgin or not. Also, when girls lose their virginity most of the time they come to me to get certain potions. Hermione, as you are a muggleborn, it is my duty to examine you. It isn't uncommon that houses have personal mediwitches or healers and that they examine the members of that house before the school year and sometimes during breaks, too."
Daphne nods and says, "That is indeed true, Madam Pomfrey, although my parents do allow you to examine me and Astoria."
Madam Pomfrey nods while she doesn't say anything, as it is true. Susan doesn't have one so Madam Pomfrey examines her. Madam Pomfrey knows that all three are still virgins as she examined them all just a few days ago.
Professor McGonagall says "I think the biggest problem is telling Harry. He needs to accept the bond, the soul bond. He doesn't need to do it in front of others like some bonds need or are strengthened by it. He needs to accept it freely and without duress by saying his full name and title. I guess you know what I mean."
Hermione asks immediately "As Harry James Potter, Heir of House of Potter?"
Professor McGonagall nods. Daphne, however, cannot suppress herself and says "No as Heir Harry James Potter, Heir of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter."
Hermione asks "What do you mean Most Ancient and Most Noble? Is it important House Potter is uhhh… Most Ancient and Most Noble?"
Daphne and Susan nod. Daphne says, "It is very important. In our world, the magical world, how old your House is. The older the House, the higher you are in the hierarchy we have. The highest Houses, which are the Most Ancient and Most Noble also have certain rights that other houses don't have and also rights that are better than the lower Houses. House Potter is also the oldest House that remains. It means that since its origin, they always had a magical child, never skipping one generation. I don't know if they only had male children, but the last couple of generations they only had one child each generation and it was always a male child."
"You can get the noble title by having a lot of wealth, which can be shown by the clothes you wear both inside and outside of school and the supplies you get, and I don't only mean school supplies. Many pureblood Houses and old Houses, while not being pureblood anymore, know what most of the other Houses do to gain wealth. My house has an import and export business. However, as House Potter lost his Lady and Lord and is very old, it is mostly unknown what they do to gain their wealth as it is rumoured they are very rich I also wonder why Harry doesn't wear the material that shows that although I must admit this year, his clothes look a lot better and obviously with better quality than before."
"Another way to have or gain the noble title is if you made a real contribution to the wizarding world by inventing stuff or be generous by donating much like to St. Mungo's, the largest magical hospital located in London."
Hermione immediately says "Yes, I know about St Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries. I read about it and Professor McGonagall told me about it when she came to my house when she introduced me to the magical world. She also had documents about St Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries, among other things I needed to know. Although she never told me about Houses and that there is a hierarchy in said Houses."
Professor McGonagall says "I didn't do add as it is a weird concept for muggles and may scare muggleborns away. The wizarding world needs muggleborns to survive not only in jobs but also in children. Also, the ministry doesn't provide me with documents regarding those topics. There should be at least one or two books in the library that explain these things. If there isn't, I am sure Miss Bones or Miss Greengrass can help you with explaining certain things, including House Potter, as I am sure they have heard a lot about House Potter in their youth."
Susan blushes and looks away, hoping no one notices. Daphne, Madam Pomfrey and Professor McGonagall notice. Daphne and Professor McGonagall already know while Madam Pomfrey knows she can ask Professor McGonagall who would undoubtedly tell her unless it is a secret. Hermione seems too focused on Professor McGonagall's words to see Susan blush as she averted her face.
Madam Pomfrey decides to interrupt and says "While I agree with everything Professor McGonagall said she forgot to mention that before the corruption appears when the witch seeks a wizard that gives her any form or attention especially if the witch and wizard were close the witch and wizard will get very ill. It may even be lethal. In this case, it is far more dangerous for the witch as I think Harry can have more than one soul bond, so while he can get ill for one soul bond to not form another, soul bond will prevent it from killing him."
"Of course, if all or most of the soul bond will not form or Harry feels pressured to accept it can make the bond perverted at its core or the bond will not form at all it can still make him very ill and eventually kill him. There is no normal cure. There is only one way to cure it and that is forming the bond or, in many cases, accepting the bond."
"Our friend also told us that the longer the bond exists but isn't completed, the bond becomes fragile but also makes the witch and wizard more protective of the bond and their soul bonded. Not only that, it will also increase the desire to complete the bond. The desire will especially grow if one of the soul-bonded is in danger or is endangered. If someone was responsible for the endangerment of the soul bonded, that witch or wizard needs to be very careful. If one of the soul bonded is in danger, the other will do everything to find the one and save him or her."
"Our friend said that only the person with the soul bond that is in danger or was endangered could stop the husband or wife with the soul bond, could stop the husband or wife or at least stop most things. We don't know if having more soul-bonded will improve the chance of preventing the soul-bonded from doing something stupid. We also don't know if the soul bonded that was endangered or in danger is unviable that the other soul bonded can stop the other soul bonded."
Professor McGonagall thinks 'I guess it is time that Susan tells Hermione about the marriage contract and that Harry can have more wives. I hope Hermione will accept that even if she is reluctant, her love for Harry and soul bond overcome her muggle upbringing or beliefs like Lily had although James never had another wife as while he was the sole Heir Lily didn't want to and James wouldn't want to endanger more women until after the war. I know that even Lily wanted to wait until at least after the war before she would really consider it or at least talk with James about it. I think I need to have Hermione accept it. I wonder if the protectiveness is already there like Poppy subtly said. Let's try out.'
Professor McGonagall nods and says, "Madam Pomfrey is correct, but I thought she would be better to explain it as that is her area of expertise. I know you may not like some interested girls, but you are lucky that Harry will, at least to your objection if you have. Maybe like Miss Weasley, as I think she really likes Harry."
Hermione says normally "Oh she certainly does, but from what I have seen so far I don't mind too much if she wants to be with Harry … too, I guess. I am still not sure if this is right. I don't want to get ill and I like Harry enough to... like him, I guess. Even though with everything you have said, Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey, I am not sure if I have such a bond with Harry, let alone a soul bond."
Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey keep an indifferent face, but inside they almost want to smack Hermione to make her see reason. There is no other way they can be even clearer without revealing who their friend was, which was Harry's grandmother Dorea Potter née Black. Also, a bond mostly soul bond happens more than not in Harry's family, like a few other families. They aren't sure, but Harry's family sure has quite a couple of ones in their history. Dorea hasn't told which couple but mentioned there was quite a lot and she was happy she had with her husband Charlus Potter.
Professor McGonagall wonders why Hermione doesn't seem to dislike Ginny. Maybe they got to know each other better or maybe because of the necklaces as Ginny got one too, especially as Harry gave it to Ginny. Professor McGonagall thinks about someone else that Hermione doesn't like, which means probably a Ravenclaw as they challenge her the most in her year except Miss Greengrass who is mostly immediately behind Hermione but she can't accuse her while she is here. Not only that, Professor McGonagall also wonders why Miss Greengrass is allowed to stay by Hermione, so she probably wouldn't mind her too much too. She is happy Miss Bones is allowed to stay as before Hermione can leave to find Harry Susan must tell the truth or it will turn badly the longer she keeps it.
Professor McGonagall decides to use a girl's name that Hermione doesn't hate but also doesn't really like. It is one of her other cubs, as that will show how protective Hermione really is. If she reacts heavily to a girl she doesn't dislike but also doesn't particularly like means that Hermione likes Ginny a lot and accepts her completely. It also shows Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey how far the soul bond already reaches. She decides to choose Lavender Brown as Parvati Patil and Fay Dunbar Hermione seems to like more than Lavender although it may be because of Parvati's sister Padma who is more like Hermione and Fay Dunbar is not gossiping as much as Lavender and Parvati according to what Professor McGonagall has seen and heard.
Professor McGonagall says "But what if there is a girl you don't like who wants to have a relationship with Harry? Let's say, Miss Lavender Brown. Wh….."
Professor McGonagall is interrupted and the intensity of Hermione surprises even her.
Hermione jumps up and shouts, "THAT COW? THAT COW DOESN'T DESERVE HARRY. THAT COW ALSO DOESN'T DESERVE TO BE WITH HARRY!"
Even when Hermione stops shouting, you can almost feel her fury. She was way beyond angry. It takes many minutes before Hermione's fury becomes anger and she sits down again.
Both Susan and Daphne were surprised at Hermione's reaction. Daphne feels a bit of the same about Lavender while Susan is scared Hermione will react the same, or even worse when she tells Hermione about the marriage contract. Susan wonders how Hermione will react when she knows Harry accepted her (Susan) and the marriage contract. Susan hoped as Hermione allowed her to stay and knew Harry had already given her a necklace, Hermione wouldn't mind her too much.
Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey see Susan's fear. Professor McGonagall can only do one thing to make Hermione see that while Harry certainly will listen to her objection to a girl, it is in the end still Harry's decision; he is the strong wizard that has bonded her after all even though Hermione is a strong witch (for her age) too.
Professor McGonagall thought at first there would never be a wizard strong enough to bond with Hermione and be the dominant one. Although she never thought the same of Lily and that still happened, so maybe she should be surprised.
Professor McGonagall asks "Are you sure, Hermione? What would Harry say if he heard you like this and he wants Lavender?"
Hermione looks to the ground and says "Well, if Harry wants her, she can't be that bad. If Harry thinks she belongs to him, I think it will be alright."
It takes a couple of seconds before her mind catches up. She groans before she says, "This is stupid. I hate this bond. I should be able to make up my own mind."
Hermione jumps and says "Harry. I need to find Harry."
Professor McGonagall says "Hermione, we aren't done. Do you feel anything wrong with the magic of Harry?"
Hermione delves into her magic as she does it before. It takes only a few minutes before she finds Harry's magic stronger than it was before. She says "No, it looks even stronger."
Professor McGonagall says "Then you can wait a bit."
Reluctantly, Hermione agrees and sits down.
Professor McGonagall says "Hermione, why did you get angry with Miss Brown?"
Hermione says "I don't know, she just doesn't seem to be a good fit with Harry. I think she will also tell everyone things Harry doesn't want anybody to know."
Susan says, "Maybe you don't know her well enough, Hermione."
Daphne says "Indeed. We all know she gossips a lot, but maybe if she is with Harry she will not tell anything about Harry as she knows what Harry wants to keep a secret and what others are allowed to know. If you then have a gossiper in his ….. group, he can control the gossip … like control his witches, I suppose."
Daphne hopes her mask keeps in place as beneath the mask she is blushing like the schoolgirl she is. She can't suppress the pleasant arousal about a strong and dominant Harry who, for the lack of better words, owns her which will also protect her, her family and her friends or at least she hopes so. She hates herself for thinking like this as this will make her giving up control to Harry much more appealing than it probably will be.
However, after everything she has seen, she doesn't think Harry would put her in danger or hurt her in any way possible. Certainly not like the Slytherin bastards do. She can only imagine how gentle Harry would be. Well, the first time after that Harry's animalistic side may get loose and somehow it doesn't scare, unlike the Slytherin bastard that scares her when they let their animal go loose. It is like her magic knows that Harry is to be trusted, but that may be the magic Harry left in her. She can't feel what Hermione feels is the focus. She wonders if it is because Hermione spends a lot more time around Harry or maybe she is much more willing to accept the magic for knowledge or the feeling it brings. She doesn't know if she can decide on her own about anything regarding Harry because of his magic that may be influencing her.
Hermione says "Maybe. I just don't want to gossip and I like to study. Lavender and Parvati don't like to study and just do what needs to be done, which would give them a passing grade. They do at least more than Ronald although that is not that difficult. I like to know more than just what I need to know for class. I want to do my best."
"I am not sure if I will ever get along with Lavender. I am kind of friends with Parvati and Fay. I get along with Padma better, I guess. If Harry really wants Lavender, I will try to do my best to get along with her, or at least be civil. I hope he doesn't mind my objection or want to at least hear me out."
Professor McGonagall says "Like I said before, I know he will, Hermione. But what if….. let's say Miss Bones would like to join you and Harry to also be one of Harry's girls? Would you allow or like that?"
Hermione looks at Susan, although not surprised as Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey expected.
Hermione says "I will not like it but I will allow it. I like you Susan, but even with the bond if I even have that with Harry, it is not normal in the muggle world for a man to have multiple girls as…."
Hermione doesn't know what they are. Madam Pomfrey says "as sister-wives and Mr. Potter's wives."
Hermione nods and asks "I guess, but why would women want that?"
Madam Pomfrey says "Miss Granger, I am sure there are very few women who want their boyfriend, fiancée or husband to have more partners than just them. It is the same for us witches, but our magic is drawn to strong wizards. It isn't uncommon for some wizards to get more wives, especially in Mr. Potter's situation. In Mr. Potter's situation, it is pretty much required to have more wives to prevent House Potter from going extinct like many other houses before House Potter. However, as House Potter is the Most Ancient and Most Noble, their importance is much more important than most of the other houses. More wives mean, of course, more chances for healthy children for the House and more chances to get an Heir as they don't care about Heiresses. Although I don't think House Potter is like that."
"This together with Mr. Potter being very strong, especially for his age, there is no doubt in my mind that Mr. Potter will have multiple women. However, as Professor McGonagall explained, there is a third reason he will have multiple wives which we both think will include you, Miss Granger, even if you are uncertain."
"It is the bond between you and Mr. Potter. I do want to warn you again, Miss Granger, don't fight against it. I will also not understand why you would. You care a lot for Mr. Potter, although the bond points out that you are already in love with Mr. Potter. Besides that, there aren't a lot of wizards like Mr. Potter who would do his utmost best to treat all his wives the same, not neglect anyone and also would not see his girls are many wizards would see them as commodities or just tools. I am sure Mr. Potter will love all his girls. The question is Miss Granger, do you want to be part of it as his best friend and possible first love?"
"And just like Professor McGonagall pointed out, Harry will listen to your objection. If you accept this, Mr. Potter would value your thoughts about certain girls. Also, if you like a girl to join like Miss Weasley, you can ask Harry if he feels something for her. If he does, he may like to get closer to her as you show you wouldn't mind, or maybe even like if she joined as she will basically become your sister. Don't forget, Harry will always have the last say."
"What you feel now Miss Granger can lessen over time, and I don't mean the love you try to claim you don't have, I mean the feeling that up must obey Mr. Potter, especially if Mr. Potter wants you to. You will continue to have the feeling and act on it, but if you are really against what he says, you will say you are against it, which means Mr. Potter can tell you, you don't have to do it. If you are strongly against something and he gives you more freedom, you may refuse to do something even if Mr. Potter didn't say you don't need to do it or let you decide on your own. I know you want to follow what Mr. Potter asks, but it is just something to keep in mind for now."
Professor McGonagall decides to ask Hermione "Hermione, why do you still claim you don't have feelings for Harry?"
Before Hermione can think about it she says "Why? That is easy, look at Susan and Daphne as the perfect example. They are much more beautiful than I will ever be even if I try my best. I have bushy hair, and big front teeth that I have been called beaver face, bossy and more than once have been called a know-it-all, especially since that is not something to be proud of. There is no way Harry would love me over them. Not to mention Ginny also looks a lot better than me while she is almost two years younger than me and she is actually interested in Harry. When Harry is ready for a girlfriend, he will not even give me a second glance before he picks someone else. Not that I can blame him."
Not a second after she is done, her mind catches up. She looks to the ground with tears. She can't believe she told them her biggest fear. Sure, Harry looked at her, but that was just because Harry was a teenage male. He would look at every (teenage) female, but that doesn't mean he feels anything for her or only a bit of lust while she wants his love. Only then does she want his lust.
They all look shocked, even Daphne. Sure she knows she is beautiful, but Hermione sells herself short, too short. While Hermione does have bushy hair and big front teeth, it doesn't look particularly bad and while Daphne knows she has bigger breasts than Hermione, Hermione has the showing of childbearing hips that she wants. From their year, only Susan has bigger breasts and real childbearing hips already. Daphne knows she will probably get those childbearing hips when she gets older. That doesn't mean she isn't jealous of Susan and Hermione as they already have childbearing hips, Susan, more than Hermione, although that doesn't matter to her jealousy. Harry certainly likes Hermione every can see that Daphne wonders why they can't.
Susan can't believe Hermione thinks Harry wouldn't like her. She knows Hermione can be a bit bossy sometimes, but with the bond that falls mostly away, why can't Hermione be proud she knows many things? Hermione saved herself, Penelope and prepared Harry even though it was short when Harry faced the Basilisk and killed it to save Ginny Weasley. Susan is sure Harry doesn't mind Hermione having been a bit bossy in the past and values Hermione's mind very much.
She also knows as the marriage contract is signed, Harry may look at girls a lot more and also become more aware of them. She is sure he will notice Hermione as one of the first and will see the beauty Hermione doesn't see in herself. Harry just needs Hermione to believe him when he speaks the truth that she is quite pretty and will only become more so. She is sure Harry loves Hermione and Hermione loves Harry. She can't understand why they can't see that or maybe in both cases is afraid to lose the other and Harry's maybe be afraid that Hermione will get mad that he needs more women.
Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey look at each other. They didn't expect Hermione to think so low of herself. A bit of doubt would be expected, but this is much more.
Susan thinks 'I need to help Harry with Hermione.'
Susan says timidly, "Hermione, why do you say that? Some may think like that, although it may be because you threaten them. They just say it to hurt you and make you doubt yourself. Harry doesn't think like that. I am sure that he doesn't think those things and I wouldn't be surprised if Harry likes your hair. Harry likes you more than just how you look, which means you're inside and that is also your knowledge."
Susan doesn't know, but she hears that she is much more bold than she normally is. She wonders if helping Harry with Hermione is so important for her and Harry that it changes her character to do so. It frightens her but somehow thinking of Harry together with the necklace she wears makes her worry disappear almost completely although she can't prevent the blush from embarrassment for her bold attitude and also thinking about Harry.
Professor McGonagall thinks 'Now is as good as time as any.'
Professor McGonagall says "I think there is one more thing you should know about Hermione before we can start to search for Harry."
Hermione nods and is happy that they are almost finished as no matter how informative this is, half of her mind kept focused on Harry the whole time. Many times she needed all her willpower to keep her from standing up and tearing down Hogwarts stone by stone if she had to, to find him.
Professor McGonagall glances at Susan. Susan doesn't seem ready to tell her. Professor McGonagall sighs before she says "What I am going to tell you, I also didn't know. However, I don't know if it is my place to tell. Isn't that right Miss Bones?"
Susan looks up when Professor McGonagall says her name. She is shocked as she hoped Professor McGonagall would tell Hermione, but she realizes it should be her. She is betrothed to Harry; She wanted to complete the contract and she… should tell Hermione, Harry's best friend and she is certainly one of her sister-wives if not the head wife.
Susan sees that Hermione looks shocked at her but also with a face that she wants to know. Daphne also looks at her, but she doesn't look shocked and almost knows like she already knows what she is going to say. Susan wonders if Daphne indeed saw them in the Hogwarts Express.
Susan raises her normal timid voice to make sure Hermione can hear her as she isn't sure if she said it once she can say it again. She says "Indeed, Professor McGonagall. Hermione, I don't really know how to say this Hermione. Fortunately, Madam Pomfrey and Professor McGonagall mentioned something that, while it is difficult to accept or understand for a muggleborn like yourself."
"I don't really know how to say this any other way than the truth. Hermione, when I was a baby my parents betrothed me to a strong wizard. That wizard is Harry."
Susan sees that Hermione wants to say something or if you must see the look in her eyes scream.
Susan immediately continues to hope to stop Hermione from screaming, "I know it is outdated in the muggle world, but I am very happy that Harry is my betrothed. He, also, knows. This summer after he talked with my Auntie we finished the marriage contract. I only mean the formal part, not the intimate part, if you are wondering. The only thing Harry and I have done is that he gave me a hug and a kiss on the mouth, not even a snog."
"I can understand if you are sad Hermione as who are you kidding? Harry loves you. You can sell yourself short, but not in Harry's eyes. He likes you more than just how you look, but don't take my words the wrong way as you are also certainly a witch who is pretty. Sure you don't do as much as other girls to look pretty or use make-up to look pretty, but you don't need to do that as you have some kind of natural beauty which I think Harry noticed more than once."
"Also, don't forget what Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey said Harry is almost required to have more wives. Normally, I should ask you if you will allow me but as I finished the marriage contract for you for which I am very sorry, I always thought you were already a couple. In any way, I hope you will join me and make you Lady Potter as I cannot take the name as I need to continue House Bones making me Lady Bones and when I marry Harry, he will become Lord Bones besides being Lord Potter so you can marry him for that name."
"I will always be the only Lady Bones from Harry, but as he is Potter by blood, there is a big chance that you will not be the only Lady Potter, but you can be his first. Also, if you accept, Harry will certainly not refuse you but probably also doesn't offer as he is like you muggle-raised, although by the law he is a pureblood, and has a problem with accepting this. If you accept to be his fiancée or only his girlfriend at the moment, I don't mind, although I do like to be there when you ask him and he will give me a snog after he snogged you about what will surely happen. Being his first girlfriend will also give you more power inside the House even though Harry will always be the Lord and when other girls want to join they need to ask you before they even approach Harry about this subject. Meaning that while I would never refuse any girl as it is Harry's decision, he will listen to your objection or acceptance even more."
Hermione closes her mouth and eyes. She is breathing heavily and tries to prevent her from doing anything in anger or shouting at Susan as Hermione is a bit mad that Susan is betrothed to Harry. It is because of Susan but more how good Susan looks compared to her and also that Susan couldn't wait until she came to with terms the that she loves Harry and maybe even that she comes to accept that Harry can or must have more wives for House Potter which in her opinion if completely barbaric towards women as they need to share their husband.
Professor McGonagall says "I understand it is a shock to find out, Hermione. I was the same when I was at Miss Bones's house as the representative of Hogwarts and Miss Bo…. Susan said it at the table where we were seated. Surely, she told Harry in private before as I wasn't there for that, I was surprised."
"I understand if you have a problem with it. Harry's mother had the same when Harry's father told her, but their situation was slightly different, Harry's father could still have multiple wives. The reason he wasn't is that the first moment he saw her he was in love so he asked his parents, Harry's grandparents, to not sign any marriage contract before he married Lily and that was in the first letter he sent home barely a few days after his sorting."
"Anyway, this isn't Harry's fault. I am sure he would give up having able to have multiple wives if it would mean he would have his parents. Although Harry would still be able to have multiple as Susan still needs to continue her house and needs a wizard for that. Also, as the only Heir he could still have a couple of wives but less than in this situation as he is the last of his House it is of great importance, he has multiple wives to repopulate House Potter like Susan needs to do for, House Bones, but she is on her own in that. She can surely use the help of her sister-wives not to repopulate House Bones but to help her share the burden of taking care of the babies."
Professor McGonagall gets a mischievous look on her face when she adds, "And taking care of Harry's love."
It takes a minute before the girls understand what Professor McGonagall means and they blush in embarrassment and with a little arousal.
After another minute Professor McGonagall says "Hermione, at least consider this and please don't leave Harry even if you don't want to be a part of this. Although I think you will accept this as you do love him, which may force you a bit, I believe you will be happy nonetheless, as this is Harry we are talking about. While I don't know him as much as I would have liked at this point, I can say that he will also try to treat all his wives equally and never intentionally neglect anyone of them. It may be a bit difficult at first, but I am sure he will learn to not let it happen."
"I think if you leave Harry, it will hurt him immensely, especially as this isn't his fault. I think I and Madam Pomfrey have told you everything we thought you should know. We have taken enough of your time. Now let's find, Harry."
As soon as Professor McGonagall says to find Harry, Hermione almost jumps out of her chair and can just barely resist running to the door, although she walks much faster than she normally does.
3rd September 1993, unknown location
It doesn't take long before Harry can look around and he sees a place he has never seen before. The place where he is seems to be almost endless. Dobby lets go of Harry and looks up to Harry.
Harry asks "Where are we, Dobby?"
Dobby says "A place where Master wanted to go. A place only a few wizards and witches know of. This is the …
Let's end here for now. You can hate me if you want for a cliffhanger (although a lot may know where Harry is). In the next chapter, we will see Harry's time while the girls are being talked to by Professor McGonagall.
We will see Hermione considering and trying to accept what she has been told. Harry is found at a place he didn't know was special before. And more if the words allow it.
Please read and review.
