CHAPTER 1 - GOLDEN SNITCH SUMMONS
Harry Potter couldn't believe his luck when he received an invitation to the Quidditch World Cup from his godfather, Padfoot. To top it off, Padfoot had arranged for a private box. How brilliant was that! The Weasleys and the Longbottoms were also invited, along with someone named Tonks.
Harry vaguely remembered a spiky-haired Hufflepuff seventh year from his first year. Could it be her? Probably not.
After just two weeks back from Hogwarts, Harry was more than ready to escape Privet Drive. Despite having Defense Against the Dark Arts three times and Potions twice a week, his maternal aunt's house was far from a happy place. A place where he was overworked, underfed, and treated worse than any house-elf he knew. Except maybe Dobby, an elf Harry was still a bit wary of.
Harry had delved into researching magical creatures due to his encounters with Dobby.
The original instructor for Care of Magical Creatures last year had been slated to be Hagrid. However, without wand rights and his first class nearly causing a catastrophe with the Malfoy heir, Hagrid was swiftly removed from his post, reverting to his former role as the Keeper of Keys before anyone could say Quidditch. The new professor, Wilhelmina Grubbly-Plank, was a stern woman who didn't view Class XXXXX creatures as 'cute and cuddly.'
Malfoy, not one to let a grudge go, accused Hagrid of attempted murder and claimed the use of a hippogriff as revenge for the previous year's incident. Dumbledore managed to keep Hagrid out of Azkaban but couldn't salvage his teaching position. At least he retained his role as the Keeper of the Keys.
Professor Grubbly-Plank's class aligned more closely with Harry's expectations for Care of Magical Creatures. Despite enjoying the ride on Buckbeak, Harry found the subject to be far more practical under Grubbly-Plank's instruction. His essay on House-elves turned out to be one of the few occasions when Harry accidentally submitted the 'best' version for grading. Hermione beamed at him when she discovered it, and they shared a moment alone.
The Sorting Hat's inclination to place Harry in Slytherin wasn't entirely off the mark. Harry devoured all his books, producing superb essays for everything but submitting only mediocre ones, reasoning that OWLS were the only grades that truly mattered. He harbored no desire to live up to anyone else's expectations but his own—perhaps Hermione's, too.
In the end, Harry and Hermione, along with Harry's godfather, managed to rescue the condemned creature at the conclusion of the school year. A godfather who loved him and genuinely wanted to be family. Harry found himself defending this connection fiercely, destroying a hundred Dementors in the process. His Patronus exuded strength because it embodied the joy and love that Harry longed for—a family bond that had been denied time and again by the Dursleys.
This man was unequivocally family. Despite his weakened magic due to lack of proper nourishment and sleep, the wizard's embrace of Harry was like a cloak of love that Harry never wanted to remove. The surge of joy that enveloped him in that moment could have powered a Patronus strong enough to obliterate every Dementor in the world. Harry finally had a family, a godfather who cared for him deeply.
To Harry's surprise, his godfather turned out to be more than just a caring guardian. Sirius was secretly Lord Black, and he sent Harry not only his own Potter heir ring but also the heir ring for his grandmother's House of birth—the House of Black. The delivery came by way of a brightly plumaged bird, carrying with it a package that included a book on the responsibilities of an heir of a Great House. In Harry's case, he had responsibilities for two.
Despite being out of the country and grappling with legal entanglements, Sirius was determined to be with Harry next summer. He made it clear that, regardless of legalities, meddling headmasters, or any other obstacles, they would spend time together this summer. Harry's reaction to the delay was a mixture of sadness and frustration—a familiar sentiment in his tumultuous life.
The arrival of additional books brought conflicting emotions for Harry. On one hand, he was excited to delve into the customs and heritage of his father's family—an eagerness inherited from his mother's side. On the other hand, there was a concern about Ron's reaction to his studies. The prospect of more sneaking and hiding around Ron was daunting. Harry was already discreetly attending Runes and Arithmancy classes, using his family's invisibility cloak to avoid detection. Keeping this secret from Ron, so as not to incite jealousy, added another layer of complexity.
At least Harry found solace in the fact that Hermione was his accomplice in this clandestine academic pursuit. With her time-turner, they navigated the challenges of juggling multiple classes, making it easier for both of them to pursue their academic interests without raising suspicions. In turn, Harry offered a suggestion that greatly aided Hermione in managing her demanding schedule. The camaraderie between the trio remained strong, even as they navigated the complexities of magical education and personal growth. Harry's suggestion to Hermione was simple yet effective—adding extra hours to her day for sleep and meals significantly reduced her stress levels, a benefit that Harry himself enjoyed. The absurdity of sneaking around to attend classes grated on him. Why was it necessary to resort to such measures just to learn?
The need for secrecy stemmed from Dumbledore's resistance to Harry's attempt to make changes to his course schedule. Initially, Harry sought to switch from Magical Creatures and Divination to Runes and Arithmancy, as allowed by the school charter. However, Dumbledore declined the request after the first week, prompting Harry to resort to covert methods to gather more information.
One of his motivations for pursuing Runes and Arithmancy was to support Hagrid, his gentle half-giant friend who had been unjustly sacked as the Care of Magical Creatures instructor. Harry made an attempt to drop the class in solidarity with Hagrid, a move that showed his loyalty and support for his first and largest friend.
Determined to excel in his studies, Harry aimed to achieve as many O's on his OWLs as his mother—an ambition fueled by the insights Remus Lupin shared about her. Remus, a friend of both his parents, became the best Defense Against the Dark Arts professor Harry had encountered so far. Similarly, Alastor Moody, set to teach next year, was already providing secret lessons during the summer, thanks to 'Unca Moony' and Harry's innocent godfather.
The desire for Harry and his godfather to live together was strong, but obstacles loomed, particularly in the form of Severus Snape. Snape's face adorned one of the training dummies in Mad-eye's basement, and Alastor Moody, a retired Master Auror, had an extensive file on Snape, branding him as a Death Eater. According to Moody, any marked follower of the Dark Lord had committed murder and worse to earn the dark mark.
Alastor Moody, aware of only one dark ritual involving spilled innocent blood to bind an individual to the Dark Lord via a gruesome tattoo, recognized the need to impart certain knowledge to Harry. He understood that if Harry intended to retain the title of the Boy-Who-Lived long enough to reach adulthood, he needed survival skills and insights into professors bound to serve the so-called 'Dark Lord.' Moody was prepared to equip Harry with the tools he needed to navigate the treacherous waters of the wizarding world.
Dumbledore's complacency with allowing Snape to berate students from 'Light' families, including Harry and Neville, under the guise of maintaining cover irked Moody. The grizzled Auror looked forward to coming to the school and instilling fear in the disdainful, greasy git. It was refreshing to have an adult ally who saw Snape as a potential threat.
Snape's erratic behavior, alternating between bullying and moments of apparent rescue, left Harry bewildered. The grudge between them deepened after Snape's attempt to have Sirius Kissed by a Dementor and his role in Remus losing his job.
Fortunately, Remus swiftly found employment as the House Black Steward, a position that Sirius had arranged. Harry, concerned for Remus, was both surprised and relieved by this development. The bond between them had grown strong, with Harry affectionately referring to him as 'Unca Moony.' The idea of Remus being unemployed and possibly going hungry had incited Harry's fury, but Sirius had solved the problem. Harry realized from the books his godfather had sent that the role of House Steward was no easy task, but Remus would earn his keep.
With Remus as his potion's teacher for the summer, Harry finally had the opportunity to learn potions. The Knight Bus became his means of transportation, despite its lack of comfort and safety. It shuttled him between Professor Slughorn's and Moody's houses, ensuring Harry continued his education even during the break. The extra lessons were invaluable, providing Harry with both academic enrichment and practical skills in the magical arts.
Moony, understanding the gaps in Harry's magical education, ensured that Professor Slughorn was aware of the need for remedial lessons. He wanted Harry to catch up to the level of magical children who had received proper instruction at home. The mental image of standing at a workbench, guided by a redheaded woman in a nurturing environment, brought a swell of emotion that almost caused Harry to break down. The stark contrast to the harsh reality of learning under the spatula-wielding hag, who spewed vitriol and abuse, intensified the ache for a different, more caring beginning.
Pushing aside the longing for a different past, Harry focused on the present lesson, savoring every moment of gentle instruction. Professor Slughorn proved to be an excellent teacher, and Harry's magical skills flourished under his guidance.
If only he could escape from the suffocating grasp of Privet Drive permanently!
Two weeks before the train departed from Hogsmeade for London, the luxury resort of Xanadu beckoned with its magical theater, casino, and private beach—kept at a perfect temperature year-round by weather wards. June was a slow month for the resort, making it more affordable for the crime lord who had rented the entire place for the day.
The tranquility of the private beach was disrupted by the clandestine dealings and discussions within the opulent halls of Xanadu. The crime lord, shrouded in shadows, made arrangements and alliances that would reverberate in the wizarding world.
A box of single-use talismans was provided, each granting one-time access to the private beach. The chaise lounges, a charming cabana, and access to all amenities awaited those who possessed one of these magical tokens. The obsequious servant inquired if the wizard required more talismans than the number in the box, not knowing the true intentions. A quick glance revealed dozens, though the wizard chose not to count.
"No, this will be just fine," the wizard replied.
Had the servant been privy to the wizard's plans, he might have risked his life to prevent that box from leaving the office.
Hedwig returned from delivering another invitation for extra lessons to Ron. Slughorn's brilliance and Moody's effective but intimidating teaching style made the lessons worthwhile. Harry also wanted to extend an invitation to the Weasleys for the Quidditch World Cup, as Padfoot assured there was plenty of room for his friends.
Hedwig landed on Harry's shoulder, and, expecting a letter, he reached up. However, she demanded attention first—cuddles for the lovely daytime owl. Only after appeasing her did, she release the post.
Harry eagerly opened the letter. The Weasley family intended to pick him up in a couple of weeks for the World Cup, planning to create a Floo connection at the Dursleys' residence. Panic set in; Vernon's wrath at magical interference was inevitable.
Mr. Weasley hoped to secure tickets and invited Harry to join. The timing was amusing, considering Harry had just extended the same invitation to the Weasleys. Grateful that Hedwig had delivered the letter directly to Ron, Harry noticed it was heavily covered in postage stamps. Mrs. Weasley's overzealous postage application was evident.
Placing it on his to-do list, Harry considered a nice set of stationery as a thoughtful hostess gift. He could also provide Mrs. Weasley with a demonstration of the correct number of stamps to use. Perhaps a small bag of Muggle currency would be a nice touch?
Amid Vernon's shouting, Harry sighed. Dreaming of a house-elf, he put down the letter on top of the book he had been reading and obeyed the summons of the "giant land whale," making his way downstairs.
While preparing dinner, Harry entertained himself by mentally composing an essay on the peculiar creature known as "Vernious Durslious." He detailed the creature's habitat, eating habits, and range of normal activities—traits that involved little physical effort, much shouting, and copious swilling of gin. This mental exercise served as a distraction, and Harry noticed that Vernon's scowls increased in direct proportion to his own amusement.
In response, Harry practiced his nascent Occlumency skills and adopted a mask of an unhappy servant. To his satisfaction, Vernon's mood visibly brightened with the change.
Expanding on his mental essay, Harry speculated that this peculiar creature was somehow related to Dementors. Instead of feeding on happiness, it thrived on others' unhappiness and made a concerted effort to keep its captives unfed and discontented.
Harry resolved to write to Ron about this revelation. He wasn't seeking permission from the Dursleys to attend the Quidditch World Cup; after all, these people weren't his legal guardians. His stay with them was merely a camouflage strategy. Remaining among Muggles provided a shield against pureblood idiots seeking him on behalf of the Death Eaters.
Moody's warnings about the real threat of Death Eaters lingered in Harry's mind. While they might hesitate to directly attack Hogwarts due to Dumbledore's presence, any Death Eater crossing paths with Harry would gladly capture him for their dark leader. Knowing that Tom Marvolo Riddle existed in a state between life and death heightened Harry's sense of urgency.
An idea struck him: he could continue attending classes but do so from the Weasley home. Without seeking permission from the Dursleys, Harry decided to write a letter requesting to join the Weasleys sooner rather than later. Having completed the obligatory two weeks that Dumbledore demanded, Harry knew the Weasleys wouldn't mind hosting him. He resolved to leave "prison" earlier than planned, making arrangements to meet them in Diagon Alley or simply taking the Knight Bus to the Weasleys' home.
Potions, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and the prospect of meeting young wizards and witches from around the world—Harry considered this to be his best summer yet. Only two elements were missing to make it perfect. The first would be the joy of living with a family that truly loved him, and the second, something he desperately needed, was soon to happen. Even more critical than having a new family, what Harry eagerly anticipated was being reunited with Hermione.
He missed her tremendously, and their bond had deepened during the past school year as they shared secret classes and sneaked around together. With the knowledge of his new secret-from-Dumbledore lessons, Harry hoped that Hermione would choose to join him. Alastor Moody also expressed a desire to have her present, especially since Remus Lupin had given them private lessons in self-defense during the previous year—just in case Sirius Black posed a threat.
The revelation that Black wasn't the threat but was instead trying to protect Harry had been a surprising twist for them all. Remus assured them that he would be in touch soon to provide more lessons, once his new home at Blackmoor Hall in Wiltshire was ready. Harry knew some details about Moony moving into the previously vacant home, managed by a single elderly and partially-deaf elf named Baxter.
Moony's new dwelling provided him with a roof over his head and decent food, much to Harry's relief. Baxter, the elderly elf, was to be summoned loudly if ever needed, and Moony might hire more elves, especially given his expertise with magical creatures. The prospect of Lupin working with magical creatures brought Harry joy, knowing that Moony would find great fulfillment in that aspect of his work. Moreover, Remus was a kind and caring individual.
While both Gryffindors refrained from entertaining the idea of 'buying elves' around Hermione, they wholeheartedly agreed with her sentiments. They wished more elves could experience freedom, akin to Dobby, who had chosen to be free and had become a close friend to Harry. The trio shared a collective hope for a world where more magical beings had the opportunity to live lives of their own choosing.
Harry hesitated at the thought of offering employment to Dobby. Despite a year having passed, a trace of wariness lingered from the elf's previous misguided attempts to protect him. Shaking off his musings, Harry returned to reviewing Ron's scribbled letter.
After rereading Ron's letter twice, Harry felt ready to compose his reply. He was eager to leave Privet Drive, yearning for a home of his own. Remus's implication that he would be welcome at Blackmoor Hall once the various magical creatures infesting the place were dealt with fueled Harry's determination to reunite with his friends. He swiftly penned a letter to Ron and began packing his meager belongings, the anticipation of being with his friends lifting his spirits.
Moreover, Hermione would be returning from France in just three more days!
Appoline Delacour received a delightful and thoughtful gift from her husband, delivered by his secretary. A day at Xanadu awaited her and her daughters, starting with the beach, followed by spa treatments for herself and Fleur, and concluding with an elegant dinner and a show for her and her husband. The gesture was both romantic and considerate, and even though their anniversary was still approaching, securing reservations at the luxury wizarding resort on the Solstice would have been impossible without prior planning. Celebrating two weeks early was more than acceptable.
With the school year coming to an end, the timing was perfect. Appoline eagerly anticipated spending quality time with her daughters, and she had no intention of inviting any staff members. She craved some alone time for meaningful conversations. The prospect of the upcoming celebration filled her with excitement, looking forward to the shared moments with her family.
Mad-Eye Moody had retired from the Department of Magical Law Enforcement due to rumblings from the Dark faction. Sensing something ominous on the horizon, he wanted the freedom to act independently, away from the constraints of the Ministry. The retired Auror decided to position himself at Hogwarts in the coming year, feigning reluctance as he accepted the Defense Against the Dark Arts post. In reality, it was an excuse to be on the grounds and keep a vigilant eye on individuals like Karkaroff and Snape—those labeled as 'former' Death Eaters.
While Snape appeared sincere in his remorse, Moody couldn't fully trust him until subjected to the highly illegal, enhanced truth serum that his friend had concocted. The retired Auror, armed with curse-breaking experience, was determined to eradicate the curse on the Defense Against the Dark Arts position at Hogwarts once and for all.
One week before the train left Hogsmeade for London, Lucius Malfoy wore a most unpleasant smirk. Snape's summons indicated that the news of Sirius Black's escape had reached the aristocratic wizard, and Severus had done his best to ensure Black's capture by the Dementors.
Seated in Malfoy's opulent chamber, a box of magical talismans caught the blond man's attention as he played with them. Malfoy reveled in the knowledge that they were about to be part of something significant—the resurrection of the Dark Lord to full health. Though Severus hid his dismay and sudden fear at this revelation, Malfoy intended to exploit the situation to his advantage.
Leaning in, he whispered to Severus, "My friend, we are on the cusp of a momentous event. Bringing the Dark Lord back is an honor, and you and I will play crucial roles in this endeavor."
Severus, maintaining his cover under the Dark Lord's scrutiny, didn't betray his inner turmoil. Enduring the pretense of camaraderie with the pampered peacock had its purpose.
"What delightful news. However, I can't act at Hogwarts, and you know the wards protecting the Potter boy are too formidable. Do you expect me to attempt to snatch him from the train?" Severus inquired.
Lucius Malfoy, with a cunning gleam in his eyes, responded, "This has nothing to do with Potter! We are luring a different enemy. Although inviting him as well wouldn't be a bad idea. You could send him an invitation, perhaps with a lock of his girlfriend's hair?"
Severus, feigning innocence, questioned, "You are targeting Miss Granger? For what?" Internally, he pondered, 'For being the best student for the last three years? Being the top student while taking every class possible?' Out loud, he speculated, "I know, for hitting Draco? Not the first points she lost, nor was it her first detention."
"She struck my son? Well, that is a splendid excuse. I'll inform her that it's the reason for her demise. No, it's simply that the child fits the parameters needed," Malfoy explained, revealing a list of criteria. "She can't be royal!"
Severus, processing the information, inquired, "What are these fobs made of?" Picking up two together, he pocketed one for analysis, and Lucius failed to notice.
"Will you help me? Write a letter to the girl posing as Black, perhaps offering a reward for being such a good friend to his godson?" Malfoy requested. "You know her better than I do. You see her."
Severus, intrigued but cautious, replied, "What? Lucius, are you suggesting…"
"That Harry Potter is Sirius Black's godson? Yes. Silly me, I thought you knew," Malfoy purred.
Severus, maintaining his composure, penned a seemingly pleasant letter. While curious about the fobs, the one in his pocket needed deactivation. Proficient in wandless magic, he cast a powerful Finite at it, rendering it useless as a portkey or magical entry. It was now nothing more than a decorative trinket.
Severus deftly managed to snatch another talisman from the box for later analysis. His sleight of hand skills were still intact. Including the now-deactivated talisman in the provided envelope, he handed it to Malfoy.
Malfoy tapped it and asked, "Do you have Miss Granger's Muggle address?"
"I do not, but I could send you a school owl. They'll know how to reach her," Severus replied.
"Severus, you are a delight," Malfoy remarked with a smile that only intensified the growing fear in Severus's stomach. As soon as possible, Severus made his escape, bolting to Dumbledore's side to inform him of the plot and how he had thwarted it, at least for the time being.
"The girl's parents need to be warned! They have been seen in that area of France before. Lucius gambles there, has spies there. The Muggles and the girl are in danger," Severus urgently conveyed.
Dumbledore, fingering the real talisman he had given to the Headmaster, acknowledged, "You are right, Severus. Well done, my boy. I know you won't take a lemon sherbet, but did you try Pomona's special tea with lemongrass? Just magical."
Convinced that lemon caused brain rot, Severus stormed out of the office, relieved that the Granger situation was no longer his responsibility. He thwarted it. He reported it. It was done. Yet, an unsettling edge lingered in his mind, a sense of fear for her.
She looked nothing like Lily, though sometimes she behaved similarly. And, like Lily, she fell for the Potter boy. Snape had a sudden image of his own son—a lanky, dark-haired youth hiding in shadows, concealing a broken heart.
Grateful that HIS children, imaginary or not, weren't here to be crushed by rejection, Severus went to brew potions, attempting to calm his ragged nerves.
Southern France
Hermione's family had dedicated the initial two weeks of their holiday to spending quality time together when Hermione first returned home. Another vacation was planned for the last week or so before school resumed. The prospect of enjoying a private beach, courtesy of Lord Black's talisman, added an exciting element to their plans.
Emma had been acutely aware of the growing distance between them and their daughter in this magical world. Taking the time to stroll along the beaches of the south of France, indulging in shopping, or simply reading to each other, was an attempt to rekindle the bond with Hermione.
Engaging in hand-to-hand combat training was yet another method to reconnect with her daughter. In Emma's opinion, magical folk relied too heavily on their wands. Disarm them and engage in physical combat, and they would falter—just as long as you avoided those dangerous beams of light!
Hermione, drawing from her personal experiences, shared tales of her past adventures with her mother. Emma found joy in the realization that her daughter trusted her enough to open up and share these stories.
The serene moments spent practicing hand-to-hand combat by the shore, the laughter echoing through their holiday villa, and the shared stories were all building blocks mending the bridge between Emma and her daughter.
A daughter who clearly needed to talk about boys—or rather, a boy. In fact, Hermione's letters home made it sound like there were only a handful of students at the school, mostly boys. The satisfaction of Draco Malfoy getting punched in the nose was particularly pronounced after their unpleasant encounter with the Malfoy family in the bookstore two years ago. The man had exuded disdain for their family. While Hermione had mentioned Draco Malfoy and his goons, Harry, and Ron, Emma couldn't help but wonder about Hermione's other friends.
"Hermione, can I ask a question? Other than your dormmates, does this school teach any other witches?" Emma queried.
Hermione looked around sharply, ensuring they were alone on the private beach. Aside from a beautiful blonde woman with her teenage daughter and a younger girl, the beach was currently unoccupied. The other family was basking in the sun closer to the sparkling water.
"Of course! But Mum! You can't talk about that here!" Hermione whispered urgently.
Emma made a motion of zipping her lips, then unzipped them. "It's a magical resort, Hermione!" she reminded her.
Hermione nodded, blushing at her fear of being overheard.
Emma continued, "So, Harry. His letter said that he's looking forward to sharing something with you this summer. You seemed excited."
"I am, as he really changed this last year. The Headmaster wouldn't allow him to take extra classes. So Harry just went. The Runes and Arithmancy instructor accepted his homework and allowed him to take the tests on Saturdays when they took turns being in charge of Professor Snape's detentions."
"Snape doesn't watch over his own detentions? Never mind. Don't defend him, Hermione! He tried to get Harry's godfather killed. A man sent to prison without a trial!"
"I know. So unfair," Hermione said, brushing away a tear. "Harry deserves someone, an adult someone, who loves and cares for him."
Hermione and Emma were on towels on the beach in the shade of some trees and bushes. They had overdone the sun the previous day but still wanted to be near the water. This was the day for the talisman, so they had to seize the opportunity.
Movement caught Emma's attention.
While the mother escorted her younger daughter to the nearby cabana, the blonde teen continued to lounge on the beach. That girl was exceptionally beautiful. The mother too, and the cute little girl looked likely to join them as she grew.
Suddenly, there was the sound of spell-fire, and the woman dropped onto the sand, struck by a red beam. Two men suddenly appeared from the other side of the cabana. They wore all black and had strange masks.
"Nu! Nu o ucide!" One of the henchmen shouted. (No! Don't kill her.) The small blonde girl shouted, "Fleur! Aidez moi!" (Fleur! Help me!) before she too was stunned.
Dan and Emma had no hand weapons with them on holiday. Emma had nothing with her that could help. Not even her sturdy boots. If these monsters noticed them, she and Hermione would also be in danger.
Hermione had her wand and a good line of sight. There were only two men visible, one of the men picked up the child while the other went to secure the mother.
Hermione quickly cast the spell chain that she and Harry had practiced with Professor Lupin. The two men were down; stunned and tied up with ropes in an instant. The blonde close to the water was running to aid her family.
Hermione ran there too, taking the wands from the bound men, and stunned them again just in case. Emma looked around for a rock to ensure they didn't wake up
The teen, presumably Fleur, joined them and cast a patronus while Hermione enervated both witches.
"Help will be here soon. Thank you, my friend, for rescuing my sister!" Fleur shared in her native tongue.
"My mother and I were reclining in the shade, just over there. It's just too beautiful to not want to come." Hermione shared in French, her sunburn quite apparent. "Are you okay, petite?"
The girl was holding onto her sister. Her mother, shaking, was incensed at both herself and the people who had gotten the drop on her. She now had a wand in hand, ready to cast if any other enemies appeared.
Introductions were made all around. "Appoline Delacour, my daughters Fleur and Gabrielle."
Appoline hugged Hermione longer than was socially acceptable or comfortable pain-wise perhaps for the sunburnt girl, but the kisses on her cheeks were accompanied by the mother's tears.
Emma was both furious at the situation and most impressed with her daughter. And so very, very proud. She should have let the adults handle it, but if she had, the girl would have been gone!
Hermione thought that Delacour was a name she had read about but couldn't place it just then.
Madame Delacour was most distraught. "My husband is not going to be happy with me. We left without our security detail. Fleur is just home from school. Gabrielle and I have missed her so much. I just wanted some time alone with my girls!"
Emma worried her hands, "Oh dear! Are kidnappings common here then? Maybe we should…"
"No, this beach is private, so I didn't think anyone would be here… My husband... He works in the Ministry of Magic… this attack was likely people trying to get ransom… Probably." Madame Delacour shared as she grabbed her locket around her neck in a deathgrip.
Before Hermione knew it, uniformed wizards bearing the Delacour livery showed up. She had finally placed the ladies' last name as aurors also showed up.
She took Fleur aside, switching to English in her surprise. "The Minister of Magic for France!" She blurted, in sudden recognition. "You and your sister are Veela?"
Fleur brushed aside perfect hair. "Mais oui. Mamma aussi." (But of course. My mother as well.)
Hermione nodded, as questions started. Hermione's wand was tested by the aurors, and she thought she was in trouble. However, the auror returned her wand and gave her a little card.
"Even if there had been muggles here, it was exigent circumstances. You saw what was going on and acted. Well done. Well done!"
Hermione blushed and smiled, and nodded. The little girl finally overcame her initial shyness, but spoke far too rapidly for even the fluent Hermione to follow. Fleur translated.
"My sister thinks that you are so brave because you are 'arry Potter's girlfriend. Silly, I know."
Hermione blushed again. "Well, we're not exactly boyfriend and girlfriend… yet. Not that I would say no...I mean. Oh, I just. Harry's…" If she hadn't been so sunburned, her blush would have made her appear so.
Fleur goggled then giggled at what this girl was saying, but Hermione had more questions to answer for the authorities. She had to be questioned to make sure that she was not a part of the 'conspiracy to kidnap' anyone.
Emma grabbed up their bags quickly as they were taken to a nearby auror outpost, the liveried wizards were listening with one taking notes, but they had spent time while the aurors were busy in scanning the area. One sliced off a bit of board from the cabana and shared the results with the auror in charge before they got into an argument that Hermione couldn't follow about who got to track down whoever had put the proximity alarm runes on that building.
Fleur was still focused on Hermione. This girl trained with Harry Potter! Not just went to school with him, but was really friends with him! She had pictures she shared with Gabrielle!
"You love him, my friend? Why don't you tell him?" Fleur asked, using quiet English to avoid more of her sister's fangirl squeals.
The potion that her mother requested appeared to be working rapidly for the young witch, healing her sunburn. Madame Granger, having far less magic, was also improving but more slowly.
"Because every girl in Britain is 'in love' with him, and apparently girls here too. I'm just a friend… I think. For now." Hermione answered diffidently.
Hermione's heart hurt at the thought of not being with Harry as they grew older. But wasn't that the way of friendships? Growing closer then apart?
Did they have to?
Hermione hoped not.
As for the men captured, they were Romanian Death Eaters. Their marks appeared to be the same as the British ones.
After a fair trial, they were questioned extensively before being put to death.
The Minister of Magic for France didn't have to pull strings to see justice done, nor did he allow anyone to intervene on behalf of criminals that tried to use his daughter for some dark ritual to restore the Dark Lord.
Copies of the relevant information were forwarded to the ICW, Romanian Ministry of Magic, and one other. Just not to the DMLE in London.
Data sent there would be binned before being evaluated just for being 'foreign'. No, the clever people sent it to a man who had just retired. And who happily added the information to his growing stacks.
Finding out that reservations for the dinner and show were never a part of the talisman, as had been promised, had Appoline very upset. Not with herself, but with her husband's secretary. The letter was already in auror hands, while Jean-Claude's fervent kisses reassured himself that his wife was here and safe.
The Granger family was invited to dinner with the Delacours. Dan was both appalled and pleased with his daughter's actions.
Seeing the way that this family thanked Hermione was wonderful. Not gold or medals on offer - but true friendship.
Hermione learned how the young witches had even heard of her. Apparently, the French version of Teen Witch Weekly had an article about Harry Potter and the girls his age at Hogwarts. And who he was likely to start dating. Her picture was in it!
Of course, the magazine had chosen Susan Bones or Daphne Greengrass as favorites for their beauty, poise, and family position in Britain. Nothing of which really mattered to Harry.
Jean-Claude took Dan aside. "I have to admit that after what nearly happened to my family, I had your family looked into a bit."
Dan nodded. He completely understood that.
"Your younger brother has the title. Not you. But I can't find out why."
Dan pulled his hand through his hair. "My wife is my life. I see the way you look at your family. You understand. Hermione's was a difficult birth, and she is all we are going to have. Richard has two boys. It's a patrilineal title. Hermione couldn't be the Duke, though honestly, she'd make a better one than either of my nephews.
"When Hermione was born, my father, who was still alive at that time, came to me while we were still at the hospital. Emma was recovering from surgery. He offered me an obscene amount of money and attempted to appeal to my 'sense of duty' and honor, for me to 'set aside' Emma and marry another who could provide me with at least one son. While my wife was still recovering!"
Calming himself, Dan continued in a more subdued manner, "My younger brother married earlier than I did and already had sons. He and my father were of like minds in their 'keenness' to keep the eligibility for the throne as unlikely as that would be."
"So you are related to the queen?"
"We're actually more closely related to Princess Diana, but yes. Distantly. It hardly matters in Britain. I'm a simple dentist who is blessed with a loving family. I served Queen and Country for a time in the SAS. I met and married a younger girl in college. That's my life story in a nutshell."
Jean-Claude saw that the tall man was still very muscular, still carried himself as a warrior. Jean-Claude had served in the aurors in his younger days. That wariness had been inherited by Dan's daughter and proved to be a key factor in saving Jean-Claude's own little girl.
"Thank you for sharing that with me. I do hope that our girls can become friends. And us as well."
The men shook hands and returned to the table. Jean-Claude would not spoil the meal by revealing to Dan what he now knew. Not now.
Gabrielle left the dinner with pictures of her new friend Hermione Granger and herself, which made the young witch's day. Hermione did promise that Harry Potter would likely write to the young veela to check on her and possibly send her a signed picture. She wasn't wrong.
Appoline Delacour promised herself to find an appropriate gift for the teenager who risked her life to save her daughter. And was happy that if picked for the delegation, Fleur would know at least one person at Hogwarts in the coming year. Her daughter had a difficult time making friends, and this witch seemed to suffer from the same problem. As Emma had shared with the veela mother, quietly.
She hoped that they could have a good relationship. They were planning on exchanging letters for now. Learning that this girl had no owl of her own, Appoline arranged for both an owl and a local Gringotts parcel exchange box. A lovely white barn owl joined their family. Due to his look, Hermione named him Jareth from the Labyrinth movie.
A nice start on the presents. Certainly more were due. How did one put a value on the life of her little girl? She understood that seconds were involved rather than minutes in the prevention of a tragedy and she vowed to never again venture out without her security detail! Unbeknownst to them, the Granger family had a Delacour bodyguard all the rest of their stay. Though the danger seemed at bay. For now.
When Severus heard of the thwarted attack, he kicked himself. She had been there! Pictures were in the French newspaper. He should have made sure that talisman was deactivated! The girl getting killed - it would be someone like Lily all over again. He had to be more careful!
Diagon Alley-
Molly was thrilled to offer Harry Potter a place in her household for the summer. How nice for Ron and Ginny to have their friend here! Ron ignored that comment as Harry was closer to the twins than his sister. All she did was eep at him.
Harry had no idea why the Dursleys were acting so strange. They had been less unpleasant to him during the final few days of his stay, but he could tell they were on edge about it. Apparently, the new neighbor was a copper, and had scoffed in Petunia's face when mention of a certain Saint Brutus school was mentioned.
"There's no such juvenile facility. And the ones that do exist don't send offenders home for the summer. What are you playing at?" Awkward questions from the detective sergeant started, and mention of a search warrant being obtained was threatened. Not that she had relayed any of that to Harry.
Since Harry needed to go to Gringotts, his own escape from prison had him meeting Mr Weasley after work in Diagon. Harry made his farewells to the greater and lesser land whales (Vernon and Dudley) and whatever horrible creature his aunt was.
"Good riddance. And try to have another place to go to next year!" the shrill woman demanded.
"Yes, Aunt Petunia." Harry sadly reassured her. Why was she so mean to him? He did try to please her. At least none of the Dursleys had gotten physical with him during this visit. Color Harry impressed. But he wanted out of there before that changed back to normal!
Harry hailed the Knight Bus, relishing the chaotic ride to Diagon Alley. It was a common stop, making the journey pleasantly short.
Arriving there, he and Mr. Weasley intended to do some shopping, including searching for a specialty item.
One that would prove useful when Dumbledore inevitably sent him back to Durskaban next year, irrespective of his, Lord Black's, or the Dursleys' objections.
WELCOME TO .J. FOR MORE ADVANCED CHAPTERS AND INTERESTING STORIES JOIN US ON P.A.T.R.E.O.N. /MJ250