Author Notes: Another idea from my works in progress folder. Harry and a few friends go to America.
It was the twenty-eighth day of June 1995, Harry and Hermione were sitting in Professor McGonnegal's office instead of on the train home for the year for reasons they had not been told yet. They were both sad, tired, and confused so they sat quietly. Harry was staring at the far wall trying not to think, not to remember, the events at the graveyard that was only a few days ago but felt like it was mere minutes. Hermione kept glancing at him then looking away like she was trying to work up the nerve to say something.
Before she could speak though the door opened and the Professor and the headmaster walked in. Professor McGonnegal was dressed in a tartan dress and sweater that looked like it would not be out of place in a muggle crowd which made the teens look at each other in confusion.
"Ahh. I am sorry it took so long to get back with the pair of you. Security matters required a bit of deception and subterfuge." The headmaster explained tiredly.
"What's going on sir? Why are we not on the train?" Harry asked in confusion.
"Because there have been threats made against both of you. Both Tom and the Ministry are not happy with you Harry, and with his taking your blood in the ritual the protections you had at the Dursley's have failed. So we must find someplace to keep you safe."
"That explains me but why is Hermione here?" Harry asked in even more confusion. "No offense. I mean I don't mind her being here but if it puts her in danger."
Dumbledore raised his hand to stop Harry rambling. "Unfortunately she would be in more danger if she was not. After her unwavering support for you during the tri-wizard tournament she has become indelibly associated with you Harry. The same forces that wish to harm you now see her as a valid target."
Hermione gave a slight gasp, "Oh no. What about my family?"
"They are already being moved to a secure location pending your arrival. However that location may not be as secure for as long as we hope so we will be sending all of you to another location and that is where Minerva will take over the tale."
"All of us sir? What about Ron?" Harry asked since his red headed friend wasn't here.
"It was felt that Mr Weasley would better serve the situation by having a staged fight with the persons impersonating you on the train. That way the disappearance of all three of you would not be as suspicious. Plus I have a task for him to perform to assist in this."
"People impersonating us?" Hermione inquired.
"Yes. You, Harry, and your parents Miss Granger are being impersonated by members of the Order. This is to hopefully cause some confusion as to your true location."
"Oh. Who are the Order?" Harry requested for clarification.
"They are an organization of mine that was created to help fight against the darkness."
Harry nodded then had a thought, "What about the Dursleys? Are they being protected."
Dumbledore sighed, "They refused our offer. They claim that as long as you are kept away from them they will be fine since this doesn't concern them, only," Dumbledore paused like he had found a vinegar drop among his lemon drops, "Only our sort are affected by this. They seem to be quite content to not understand things outside the scope of their domain."
"That sounds like them. So what will happen?"
"I have a limited set of agents. We will do what we can to check on them but if they refuse to be helped then let's hope the tide does ignore them. There is only so much we can do." Dumbledore sadly explained.
"I understand sir." Harry honestly searched his heart and found to his confusion that he did not feel much concern for the Dursleys after the years under their 'care'.
"Now let's allow Minerva to explain the rest of the plan." Albus smiled and gestured to his assistant. Harry and Hermione turned their attention to their professor and Head of House.
"Thank you. As Albus said we will be going someplace where we hope the enemy will not be able to follow. We will be traveling to some relatives of mine in the States."
"States? As in the United States?" Hermione asked in surprise.
"Yes. One called West Virginia to be specific. Back in 1745 some of my relatives left Scotland rather than continue under British rule. They settled in the Virginia Colony. Then after that little revolution they had, which they were involved in, they moved westward into the mountains. A range called the Appalachians which are very close to their ancestral home in the Highlands in geography at least. They found a small village called Arbuckle. It is located in a valley called the New River Gorge on the namesake river. The relatives of mine married the founders of the village and they founded a small school there to teach the more unique traditions that the region have assimilated. Native folk magic, former slave voodoo, along with our traditional magical studies, with an American flare though." She explained.
"So we're going there and study some of this? Will they know about me?" Harry looked interested some but concerned.
"Why not send us to Ilvermorny?" Hermione asked.
Albus sighed, "First off Harry, I do not know if any of the students have heard of you or your exploits there. As for why not send you to Ilvermorny I do know that there are members of the staff that have ties to some of the families here. While it is doubtful they would purposely betray you, the wrong mention of your presence there to the wrong person would be unfortunate."
"I can see that. This place in West Virginia though will be safer?" Hermione asked with a curious expression.
McGonnegal nodded, "Yes it is not as isolated as Ilvermorny so it would be more difficult to sneak up on, also while it is a magical school and is a magical enclave although it is a semi-secret to the locals."
"You mean muggles know about it?" Hermione asked in confusion.
"Not exactly Miss Granger they know there is something odd about that part of the valley only they prefer not to pry too deeply as long as they are not bothered by it. I believe the attitude is one of live and let live."
"So the MACUSA doesn't do anything about it?" Hermione asked in surprise.
Albus chuckled, "The United States is such a melting pot of cultures and traditions that the MACUSA does not have to police every little action by magicals. Many people assume that they are just a hippie or pagan or other fringe element of society and either ignore them or otherwise let them go about their life. So magicals can walk rather more openly in their society and not be dealt with, so long as they do not abuse the privilege or cause outright disturbances too great to be ignored."
"I believe you are familiar with the story of the Purloined letter?" Minerva asked rhetorically.
Hermione thought for a moment then grinned, "Right. Hidden in plain sight."
"Yes indeed."
"Okay cool. So how do we get there?" Harry was feeling a bit more enthusiastic. Not going back to the Dursleys had something to do with that.
"You will meet Miss Granger's family in Dublin. Where you will take a muggle aeroplane to New York city then a train to where was it Minerva?"
"Thurmond. Arbuckle is a small community located a short distance south of there." Minerva explained.
"So when do we leave?" Hermione asked.
"Immediately after you change clothes into something more appropriate for traveling in the muggle world."
===xxx
The teens had gone to their empty dorms changed and returned to their Professor who was waiting for them in the common room. Hermione had a travel bag over her shoulder while Harry still had his trunk.
"Mister Potter do muggles still use trunks when traveling?"
"I don't think so ma'am." Harry replied. He honestly had not paid attention as the Dursleys never took him anywhere.
"Miss Granger do you have some room in your bag for Harry's things?"
"Yes ma'am. This is an expando brand bottomless bag. So I should be able to."
"Very well then please consolidate your things. Do not bring any school items."
"What about Hedwig? Will she be able to come with me?"
"No sadly she will remain here. I will ensure that Dobby takes extra special care of her." Albus said.
"While the Snowy Owl is common to the North American continent it is not as far south as Arbuckle. Plus you have to admit she is rather associated with yourself so if we are attempting to be stealthy." She did not finished her comment but looked at Harry pointedly as he calculated her meaning and nodded in understanding, though sadly.
"Uh yes ma'am." The teens unpacked Harry's trunk and put them in Hermione's bag.
They were soon on their way. Going by Floo to a place in Glasgow then by portkey to Dublin.
Arriving in Dublin they were slightly confused and disoriented by the rapid transfers from one place to another.
"Ahh Minerva. Glad to see you and the wee wains arrive. Her folks have been biting the gibbs off oh me waiting on ye." A short wiry older gentleman in a sweater and tweed suit greeted them with a grin.
Minerva smiled and gave the man a hug, "Ahh Francis I think you'll survive. We had to deal with a bit of a scrabble making arrangements for the Weasley boy."
"Well if he's half as good as his pa he'll get the job done. Now let's get these two off to their folks." the short man said. Harry was surprised to hear someone complimenting Ron or his dad. Usually people seemed to be rather dismissive.
Harry was feeling conflicted. The phrase their folks implied he had folks to go to. Who could that be then he thought that it would be Sirius! He was going to spend the summer with Sirius
Arriving at a muggle hotel they were ushered into a waiting room. When they entered Harry was hugged by a tall, busty, long black haired woman with pale blue eyes. "Ahh Cousin Harry. So glad to see you." She said smashing his face into her corseted bosom.
Harry mumbled something as he struggled to escape the strange woman. When she finally released him to much laughter he exclaimed, "WHO ARE YOU?"
"Mandy Black at your service Master Potter." She said with a courtly curtsy.
"Mandy Black?" Harry asked incredulously as he noticed Remus standing to the side grinning like a fool. Hermione had gone to her parents and hugged them then looked at the scene with Harry in concerned confusion.
The tall woman started laughing. "Oh my Goddess Harry. The look on your face. Hello Pup. How are you and the lady faire." She said turning to Hermione with a wink.
"SIRIUS!" Harry suddenly realized as Remus joined the laughter. Hermione shook her head as she let out a breath she had been holding.
"In the ample flesh my boy! Mandy is an alter ego I develop many years ago during the Marauder era. She comes in quite handy for going places Sirius would not be quite as appropriate."
"Wow. Okay. I was not expecting that." Harry chuckled.
"That was the point. Sort of like the Spanish Inquisition no one expected slightly batty cousin Mandy to be the incredibly suave dashing and debonair Marauder Sirius Black." He said with a bow that threatened to spill things over the top of his corset.
Remus sighed, "Unfortunately Sirius sometimes gets a little too lost in the role."
"Well yeah. Anyhow those are stories for when you get a lot older and far less innocent. For now though as they are going to be looking for Harry Potter and Hermione Granger we are going to have to disguise the two of you. AND have I got the disguises for the two of you." Sirius as Mandy crowed happily.
===xxx
A tall plump black haired girl with moderately large breasts came out of the bedroom wearing a t-shirt and jeans with silver rimmed glasses several moments later while a tall handsome teen boy wearing a denim jacket over a Queen T-shirt and jeans came out of the other.
"Well there she is my niece Rebecca Black and her boyfriend William Graham."
"So how long am I going to have to be like this?" Harry huffed adjusting the bra and hefting his breasts.
"Well if everything goes well until we get to New York. If something happens to me since I'm the only one who can reverse it the rest of your life." Mandy said with a deadpan expression as she helped get Harry's adjustments made.
Hermione looked at her with a pessimistic expression shaking her head, "Not a funny joke."
Minerva sighed, "Just relax Miss Granger. This is a purely cosmetic transmutation a simple finite will cancel it and restore you back to yourself. Plus as it is cosmetic you will notice that certain things do not function, nor are your personalities and drives altered."
Harry looked at Mandy who was sitting demurely with her legs crossed at the knees and her entire body posture feminine. "Oh I see. That explains a great deal."
"Yes it does." Remus said nodding slowly as Mandy smiled demurely batting her long eyelashes.
===xxx
Harry and Hermione got a crash course in how to at least pass somewhat as the opposite gender by their respective parental figures. Harry sighed, "I am never going to make a very convincing girl."
"All we have to do is get you on the plane and into the hotel in New York. Once we're past that it won't matter." Remus said as Harry shrugged.
"Maybe we could pretend she's a lesbian? Its not to late to get Granger turned into a different girl." Mandy suggested to a not amused pair of teens.
Watching Hermione walk like a boy made Sirius whistle in appreciation. "Nice job Hermione. You've got it down pat."
"Well having this between the legs does help alter the way you walk. Plus its just a matter of attitude." She explained. "I'm open to some new experiences."
"Good for you. Okay is everyone ready? Then let's go." Sirius excitedly exclaimed.
Reaching the van they were to take to the airport Harry noticed that the Grangers had changed their appearance some too. They now looked like a short, balding, nebbish accountant with glasses and a frumpy middle aged woman who had her glory days some time ago.
"I look like my uncle. He used to be head of Menswear in a posh London Department store back in the seventies." Daniel laughed looking in the mirror.
"Yes well I better be careful or I'll trip over my own bosom." Emma quipped.
"Mum, dad you two are taking this well." Hermione observed with a slight snort.
"Hey we'll be with you and you'll be safe. So we are not going to complain about anything." Daniel honestly said putting his hand on Hermione's shoulder.
===xxx
Sitting in the back of the van on the way to the airport Harry sat quietly next to Hermione. She chuckled quietly and leaned over to him, "You do look cute."
"Thanks. Remind me when we get back to give Susan my sympathies."
"You are about as big as her. I've often wondered what it would be like to have a pair of large ones."
"Well maybe we can ask Sirius to give you some." Harry smirked.
Hermione gave a sly grin, "Maybe I will."
Remus leaned over and whispered in Mandy's ear, "The kids are comparing breast size and flirting a bit."
"Good, good, my master plan is coming together." Mandy chuckled gleefully as she rubbed her hands together, laughing maniacally. "Now maybe they will recover from the crap that happened last year. Gods know they deserve some normal teen time."
"Hopefully." Remus nodded grimly.
"Really? I didn't think the ones you have are that bad." Harry said frowning. Not paying attention to the adults.
"Thanks I think. If that was meant as a compliment."
Harry blushed, "Uh yeah. Well I mean. I guess it was. Not that I've stared at your breasts much or thought a lot about them. Its just you look nice, very proportionate." He declared awkwardly.
Hermione patted Harry's hand saying, "Its okay. I know what you mean." with a chuckle.
Harry grinned and didn't remove his hand from hers.
===xxx
They arrived at the Dublin airport and made their way through the crowds. There were a few suspicious people that Mandy identified as Death Eaters, Ministry officials or Irish Ministry officials.
They were observed by all of these people at one point or another. Harry being followed to the bathroom at one point, only remembering which one he was supposed to use at the last moment. Coming back he had a strange expression but said nothing.
Their flight was fun and relaxing with nothing odd or unpleasant happening beyond what could be expected according to Hermione as she explained everything that was going on to Harry.
When they arrived in New York City it was different from London as it seemed louder and more chaotic. People going here, there and everywhere. They went to the hotel and were met by a MACUSA National Security Agent. She was dressed in a black suit with Black rayban sunglasses and had a very stern and serious expression.
"Hello, I'm senior NatSec Agent September Jones. I will be your case manager here."
"We were told that we would not have much dealings with the MACUSA." Minerva frowned. "We had wanted to keep a low profile."
"I know. However your associate Dumbledore failed to get clearance and do the proper paperwork. Plus the ICW was informed of Mister Black's escape from prison. Things have changed since he last came here, and a simple letter of notification does not cut it anymore, especially among the muggles. However we have had to interface with the Mungov to get you appropriate visas and passport entry stamps. Everyone will have to return to their normal forms."
"Finally!" Harry cried out happily.
Minerva turned and cast a finite causing Harry, Hermione and the Grangers to shift and morph until they were back to themselves. Harry couldn't help himself before he grabbed his crotch and then quickly released himself when Sirius laughed.
"Sorry, just wanted to make sure." Harry apologized blushing slightly.
"Yes you are fully back to your normal appearance and function. Is that satisfactory agent Jones" Minerva stated to Harry before turning to face the agent.
"Yes ma'am. It is quite fine. Now Mr Black as we are not entirely clear of the charges and circumstances of your case we are not going to extradite you. You are here under probation pending full review and disclosure of your case by the British Ministry."
"Meaning?"
"Meaning that you will be limited to the region of Arbuckle West Virginia and the surrounding area. You are not to leave that region without reporting to the MACUSA NatSecDiv personnel."
"Oh. Of course not. Besides as long as Harry stays there I'll be there." Sirius declared firmly.
The agent smiled politely then turned to Remus, "Mr Lupin you are a Lycanpositive individual?"
"I am." He stated. Cautiously as while he thought he had heard that the States dealt with werewolves better he wasn't certain.
"Very well during your shifted phase you will be given a dosage of Wolfsbane and placed under temporary protective custody as per the law. The local Agent will have more information about that."
"Protective custody? Its illegal to be a Werewolf?" Sirius bristled at the suggestion.
"No Mr. Black. It is not illegal. It is seen as a potentially dangerous infectious condition that has limited treatment. He will be taken to a magical medical facility, given the wolfsbane at no cost to himself. The facility will have food, drink, padded walls, soothing music and lights. When he has completed the transformative effects he will be able to leave the facility if he chooses as long as he stays within ten miles of the facility and reports back before moonrise. Most individuals stay at the facility though claiming its a respite from their normal lives. This is a disease not a crime."
Remus looked at her, "That is far better than it is handled at home."
"Yes. I am aware of the lack of proper treatment in your country. I sincerely hope we will not have any difficulties with this?" The Agent declared with a raised eyebrow.
"Oh no. It sounds quite well." Remus sounded slightly surprised. "I understand the need to protect the public."
"Yes. I am sorry that it sounds like you are being arrested sir. It is for your safety almost as much as it is the general public. Not everyone is as accepting of lycanpositive people as they should be. During your shifted phase you will be around others with your condition, professional healers with an emphasis on mental health care will be available if you wish to speak with them. It is only during the three nights of the moon you will be secured for your safety and the public's in an individual room. I hope you understand we still see you as a human being sir, just one with a contagious condition that has no cure and can radically affect a person's life."
"I do. And I appreciate the respect being given. My friends can come and visit me during this time?" Remus was almost overcome by emotion. Sirius was holding his arm to help keep him standing.
"As long as you are not in your shifted state you can have any visitor you wish. The facility does not discriminate or prevent contact sir." The agent said staring at Sirius with her eyebrow raised.
"So will there be anything else we need to be aware of?" Minerva asked as no one else had anything to say.
"Yes ma'am." She said pulling their paperwork out and handed them over. "As it is Wednesday night the train for Thurmond will not depart again until Friday. The train will depart from Penn Station at 0600hrs. Beyond that you are on your own. Once you arrive in Thurmond you will be greeted by Agent Ethan Cahill, he is the local office department head. He will take care of you and ensure that you do not get into trouble. You've been briefed on our laws and expectations for the Secrecy of Magic Act compliance? Plus all relevant muggle laws?"
Minerva sighed, "Yes I have been and have a firm understanding of this. We are not little children or fools young miss."
Jones merely raised her eyebrow staring at Minerva who stared back, the battle of wills lasting several seconds before the Agent nodded, "Very well. Please know that you do not have diplomatic immunity and are here on tourist visas. Thank you for your cooperation and good night."
"Well that was a charming person." Daniel observed.
"Well they have a different opinion of things over here. So anyhow. Harry you'll be in this room with Remus and I. Hermione will be in with her parents next door and Minerva has a room of her own on the other side. So let's get some sleep and spend tomorrow relaxing before we head out. Sound like a plan?" Sirius asked rhetorically.
"Can we do some tourism activities? I would like tovisit at least a museum or two, and maybe the Statue of Liberty." Hermione asked excitedly.
"I want to look around some too." Harry agreed.
Minerva considered things and nodded, "If Professor Lupin and I agree we can safely fit some exploration in we will do so."
===xxx
The next day they had a nice breakfast then did the usual tourism things. Going to the Statue of Liberty, Central park, and other muggle tourist sites. They avoided the magical world as much as possible and the adults kept a very close look out. Sirius had transformed himself into Mandy once more while out saying that the MACUSA would just have to deal with it.
When Friday came and they boarded the train though he was himself as the papers had been issued for Sirius Black not Mandy. The conductor of the Amtrak train didn't look twice at them and moved on to the next passengers waiting to board.
Sitting in the observation car Harry watched as the train began its journey from New York. Watching the urban landscape roll by they relaxed and talked about how different everything looked, yet still looked similar enough. As the car was open and other people would come and go or sat nearby they did not mention the magical world or their friends back home.
Remus and Sirius read the papers and bought some light snacks. Passing them around. Overall the journey was not much different than the one to Hogwarts or anyplace else. More industrial trains passed them and they went through many small towns and a few bigger cities.
Arriving in Thurmond that evening they departed the train, gathered their bags and then watched as the train rolled out. A few weary hikers and fishermen heading back to their homes while a few other fresh ones gathered and headed off.
A tall medium sized athletic looking man in a park ranger's outfit stepped up. "Miss McGonnegal? I'm Ethan Cahill."
"Ahh yes. We were told that you would be meeting us here."
"Yes. Agent Jones was quite informative. If you'll follow me I can get you to your destination a lot quicker. After a long ride like that I'm sure you'll be wanting to settle in and relax." He said gesturing towards a dark green van parked a few yards away.
"Thank you Mr Cahill. We appreciate that." Minerva said as they headed to the van. It was marked US Park Service.
"Park Service?" Harry asked.
"Our cover story. We operate out of the national park office here in Thurmond so people are not too suspicious of a green van or truck wandering around." Cahill explained.
"Oh that makes sense." Daniel said nodding. Harry had to agree as he had no idea otherwise.
Getting loaded and seated the van started out of the small parking lot. Turning left over a narrow one lane open grated floor bridge that the van barely fit through Mr Cahill was smiling and casually chatting as the bridge made creaking and groaning noises as the van slowly crossed the wide river. A train was slowly approaching from ahead on the tracks that were right next to the narrow road.
"So you folks are going to be staying over at Arbuckle for a few months at least. That should be nice. Your rooms have already been arranged at Miss Beaumont's Rooming House. She's expecting you. Her niece has probably cooked dinner unless you want to go over and eat at the Bluebird diner. Those are the only two eating places unless you go up to Fayetteville. Miss Beaumont also don't allow any alcohol in her house so to get a drink you'll have to go over to the Hidden Glen Hotel or the Hellbender Club."
The train blew its horn loudly as the van passed by it. Cahill waved at the engineer as they passed. Harry watched the large red, yellow and blue engine groaning along with its load of gray tanker cars and open Gondolas filled with rich black coal.
"That's the evening train from Pax. They're hauling coal and stuff for CSX to pick up. When they drop their cars off they'll be heading back up." Cahill explained as his passengers looked and watched at everything as they drove by.
"You seem to know a lot about what goes on around here." Sirius observed.
"Oh yes. I grew up in Pax. Its just down the line there." He said pointing at the rails that went through a tunnel of trees to the west as the van turned to the south on the road that dipped down at a Y intersection. A broad gravel parking lot sat across from a small green roofed building Harry had realized was someone's home.
"Seems pretty quiet around here." Dan said casually.
"Oh yeah. Arbuckle is the one of the largest communities in the Gorge with about 200 folks in it full time. Thurmond has a dozen. Most of the area is run by the Park Service so you get a lot of fisherman, campers, hikers, all kinds of people passing through." Cahill said. "We just passed the southside trailhead. It used to be a rail line going up to one of the abandoned coal mines that dot the Gorge."
The van drove smoothly along through the trees along the road. The light fading greatly as they went.
"This is where the Dun Glen hotel used to be." He said pointing to a large fishing and boat ramp area to his left. "It burned down back in 1930. A few magicals still recall it though."
"Oh that's interesting to know." Minerva said.
He slowed and came to a gravel road. It led a short distance to a small collection of buildings and a large tunnel that looked dark and foreboding in the evening light. Dan and Emma both gasped slightly.
"Right I wanted to warn you muggles about this. To anyone not in the know this is the abandoned Arbuckle coal mine. Back in the 1920s it collapsed and killed about two dozen miners according to the official histories of the region. Afterwards they could never make a commercial success out of it. Really though its the access point to get into the valley Arbuckle Village is in. It has a SEP field over it and a few charms to make people think better of trying to explore the mine entrance." Cahill said with the van shifted into park.
"Do we have to walk through there?" Dan asked apprehensively.
"No the van is protected from those spells so we can drive through. I just wanted to warn you so if you do go walking that you take a magical with you to get you back in." He said with a smile.
"Okay thanks." Dan said gratefully.
Cahill waved his hand and put the van back into gear. Moving forward into the tunnel they passed through a curtain of darkness briefly then into a narrow deep valley that had a one lane road running alongside a small rocky creek.
"The valley is just over a mile wide at the mid point, 200 feet across here and narrows down to a few feet at the other end where the creek comes out as a spring. The walls are the usual 900 to a thousand feet high like the rest of the gorge although it gets more shallow the deeper we go into the hollow here. The total length of the valley though is only about 4 miles so there is some elbow room."
They were driving through a very old looking village with buildings made from brick, stone and wood along the road backing into the hill, a small stone bridge crossed the well channelized creek to a smaller residential area it looked like. Near the entrance to the valley a collection of older decrepit looking vehicles of various makes and models sat rusting quietly. Cahill turned left onto a stone arch bridge that had waist high walls along its edge.
"The commercial district is on the north side, residential mostly on the south side. The school is also on the south side here. This is it." He said casually pointing as he turned to the left off the end of the bridge. He pulled up to the school which had a small cul-de-sac in front of it.
They all looked and saw a large light tan stone building with wide arched windows. There was a single tower in the middle with a cupola on it made from copper. The building had three floors visible and large stone steps flanked on either side by lion statues led towards large double doors. Above them in an arch stood carved Kanawha Magic Academy est. 1850.
"Ohh that looks nice." Hermione said eagerly.
Cahill laughed, "Yeah it is. Mark Talbot is the principal. He's a really good guy. You'll meet up with them tomorrow. Now I better get you to Miss Beaumont's." He said swinging the van around to head back to the west along the creek.
"Oh that would be nice. I am getting a bit tired of all this jouncing around." Minerva said with a sigh.
"Well not much further. Miss Beaumont's is on the west edge of Southside. Her family has owned the land since they came up from Alabama in the 1870s. I'll warn you she is a bit on the old fashioned side of things." Cahill chuckled as they pulled up in front of a large 3 story Victorian with two towers on it. It had gingerbread style trim and was painted in a pale blue and pink. There was a large garage to the side with three bays.
"How old fashioned?" Sirius asked carefully.
"Well she is a spinster lady so is definitely not too keen on the modern attitudes. She also doesn't have too much use for modern music, modern clothes or well pretty much anything after the war."
"Oh which one?" Hermione asked. Observing the confederate battle flag flying from the flagpole.
"The one between the states." Cahill said seriously as he shut the van off and smiled politely at them.
"Oh that's going to make things fun." Sirius said as he rolled his eyes.
Remus frowned at his friend, "Just behave yourself." He warned softly.
===xxx
Miss Beaumont turned out to be an incredibly elderly woman who was wearing a simple black wool dress and blue cardigan sweater with a light lavender scarf around her neck. She had sensible black shoes, cats eye glasses and wore her gray hair in a tight bun. She was primly studying the group as they stood in her entrance hall. She stood slightly taller than a house elf. A stout well polished wooden cane helped prop her up.
"Ethan these are the folks from England?" She said in a firm voice with a slight southern drawl.
"Yes Miss Beaumont." he said holding his tan smokey bear hat in his hands.
"Very well. Young lady you have the west tower room, young fellow you have the east tower room. I hope I don't have to put a ward on the hallway betwixt the two of you do I?"
"No ma'am." Harry and Hermione said quickly.
"Well I put your parents right next door and Ms McGonnegal you'll be next to them. You two fellows will have to share a room on the east end next to Mr. Potter. That won't be a problem will it?"
"No we'll be quite fine. Ma'am." Remus politely said as Sirius smiled at her.
"You two aren't any funny fellows are you? None of that impropriety stuff now." She looked suspiciously at Sirius as he wiped the smile off his face.
"No ma'am. Sirius and I are just very good friends ma'am." Remus explained.
"Oh well. Very well. You folks go and get settled in. Dinner will be in fifteen minutes. I held it late because you were coming on the train. Otherwise its promptly at six." She declared firmly before turning and shuffling slowly off towards the kitchen. "Dining room is in this way, living room is in there. You should be able to find your own way."
"Uh do we get a key to the room or anything?" Dan asked in confusion.
"You planning on doing anything that needs to have a locked door for?" She spun quickly around.
"Uh no. Just used to hotels and such." Daniel quickly backpedaled under her stare.
"Well here in Arbuckle we don't use locks. Nothing should be going on under this roof that requires a locked door anyhow and no one in town would dare steal anything either. So you'll be fine." She sniffed then turned and resumed her journey.
Dan whistled slightly as Ethan said good night and left them to fend for themselves.
===xxx
As they came in to sit down for dinner they noticed Miss Beaumont had been joined by a young woman in her thirties. She introduced her self as Miss Beaumont's great great grand niece Emma Bisbee.
She served the meals out to everyone at the table. Sirius had just picked up his spoon looking at the bowl in front of him when Miss Beaumont cleared her throat with a glare at him.
"Mistah Black. We do NOT eat one morsel until AFTER we say Grace in this house."
"This is something for us to eat?" He said pointing at the bowl with his spoon.
"This is my slow cooked ham and beans young fellow. It has been in my family since before the war. There is nothing wrong with that fine suppah young man." She said heatedly.
"My apologizes for my friend he doesn't travel much." Remus tried to smooth things over quickly. Glaring at Sirius out of the corner of his eyes.
"There is no excuse for a lack of good manners at the suppah table. Now we will say Grace and THEN we will discus the food." She said holding her hands out on either side of her. Emma Bisbee took Harry and Remus' hands and nodded to the others around the table to do the same. As they were seated boy then girl around the table Harry was between Emma Bisbee and Professor McGonnegal. There were no extra seats around the table so Minerva and Hermione were seated next to each other.
Once everyone was holding hands Miss Beaumont nodded and said, "Dear Lord we thank you for the food you provided, the peace and companionship to enjoy it and your divine presence guiding and protecting us. In your name we pray this aymen." She then took her hands free and spreading a napkin began to eat.
"Now back to the subject of our meal here what exactly is all of this?" Sirius asked again.
Miss Beaumont looked at him with such a gimlet expression, it caused Sirius to wonder if Kreacher and her were related somehow.
Emma Bisbee chuckled, "Well like Aunt Eliza said the stuff in the bowl is slow cooked pinto beans with ham hocks, ramps and some spices. The yellow bread is cornbread, with honey butter and of course Greenbeans."
Harry had shrugged and begun eating as it smelled good. "I like it. It tastes quite good." He said happily munching on a spoonful.
"Do not talk with your mouth full young man." Miss Beaumont said primly but with the barest hint of a smile. The others seeing Harry have no bad reaction began to eat. Sirius almost reluctantly.
"Thank you though. It is a pleasure to see a young man with such proper manners." She continued slightly more softly. "Although it looks like you could use a bit of seconds after that."
Harry suppressed a smile as Miss Beaumont in someways reminded him of Molly Weasley. In some ways though.
Sirius had taken a drink of the tea only to cough rapidly, "Whoa that is sweet."
"Well of course it is. Why wouldn't it be?" Miss Beaumont reacted like Sirius had said the floor was solid or the candle flame was hot.
"I mean. Just never mind what I mean." he said when he saw everyone staring at him.
===xxx
Everyone had retired for the night after dinner, they had been informed that breakfast would be at 7 am sharp and she would see them all there.
Sirius had grumped for almost an hour when they had arrived in their room only for Remus to threaten to smother him to death with a pillow if he didn't shut up.
The next morning they arrived downstairs to find Miss Beaumont and another one of her nieces, this time a woman in her sixties named Vera Dupree helping. They said grace and began eating the Scrambled eggs, ham with red eye gravy, cheese infused grits, and buttermilk drop biscuits that had been stacked on the plate in front of them with double boiled chicory coffee. Harry had cleaned his plate rapidly to the pleasure of Miss Beaumont who said he would grow up big and strong eating like that. She also made sure he got a very strong second helping. The others had to have some help understanding what the various foodstuffs was much less eating them. Sirius at least did not stick his foot in his mouth during this meal.
After breakfast a man came in the front door after knocking once with a sharp rap. He was a tall bearded man in his sixties. A large smile sat in a well bearded face as he came into the dining room.
"Good Morning Miss Beaumont. How are you today?" He said with a slightly strange accent.
"I'm alive Malcolm. How are you?" she replied politely.
"Quite happy now that me sister has come along here." He said as Minerva stood and graced the man with a polite hug.
"Ahh I did wonder about that." Miss Beaumont simply said.
Minerva introduced everyone else around the table that had come with her. He shook hands with each of them.
"Shall we move to the front room to discus the plans or would you rather we step outside onto the porch?" He asked.
"The front room should be quite comfortable enough." Minerva said as they relocated themselves.
Harry looked at the large room filled with various overstuffed chairs and couches. A large old style radio sat in the corner along with a record player. Hanging over the fireplace was a large painting of a southern gentleman in the uniform of a general. The painting appeared to be a muggle one as the man stood still and unmoving.
Miss Beaumont saw Harry studying the picture and smiled, "Ah yes my daddy. Colonel Richard Joseph Beaumont. He led the 3rd Alabama. Fought right there on the front lines like an honorable man should, fortunately he didn't live to see that sad day at Appomattox." her voice took on a hitch when she said that.
Harry glanced at Hermione. He was not very conversant with American history but he thought something was not quite right with what he had learned. She just smiled in that she would tell him later way.
Miss Beaumont settled into one particular chair that had a foot stool and began to pull out some knitting needles. Her niece had excused herself to clean the kitchen.
"You don't use house elves?"
Miss Beaumont looked at Sirius with another one of those looks like she was trying to determine if he was stupid or merely ignorant. "House elves are not native to the United States my good man. Their magic does not travel very well over here. As such we are blessed by the good lord with two hands and a strong back to do our own work."
Sirius started to say something but sensed that anything he said at that point would not be well received.
Minerva cleared her throat, "So Malcolm, what sort of plans do we have for the summer?"
"Well I've spoken to Ethan and Albert and they both agreed that as long as they do not leave the valley without an escort they are welcome to act like any of the other teens. Although we will be holding the usual summer workshops and activities at the school for anyone who wants to get involved." Malcolm explained with a grin.
I hope they will not get too involved with those Dugan children. They are nothing but trouble." Miss Beaumont said knitting rapidly.
"Miss Beaumont I am sure that Harry and Hermione will figure out for themselves who is and is not appropriate for them to associate with." Minerva sniffed.
"I suppose." The elder spinster non-commitally said.
Malcolm just shrugged slightly, "If you're ready we can talk a walk around the village and introduce you to some of the locals. Give you the nickel tour. Or you can go off on your own and explore"
Harry stood up, "Yeah I'd like a tour first. Hermione?"
"Is there a library in the town?" She asked.
"Well we let the people come into the school and use ours as there isn't really one unless you go into Fayetteville. Its worked out pretty well over the years. There is a bookstore that sells books and notions and such in the village though."
"Oh. That would be nice to see." Hermione agreed. "But this Fayetteville its a muggle community?"
"Yes. Although a few magicals moved there and down to Beckley and around to get better jobs, different family options and such." Malcolm explained.
"Oh. Well we are ready if you don't mind." Hermione said standing up.
"If you do not mind Malcolm I would like to rest at least until lunch. The trip here was rather stressful." Minerva declared.
"I understand Min. I think Amelia was going to be home today if you want to go visit her. We live at #29." He said.
"Perhaps I shall."
"Just remember dinner is at 6 pm sharp. Lunch is at noon. And not a minute later." Miss Beaumont said firmly.
"Yes ma'am. I'll remind them." Malcolm said.
===xxx
The group was walking down the street with the nice houses along either side. They had seen Minerva to her brother's house and were introduced to his wife. She was a pleasant muggle from Beckley who had married him and adapted to the magical community.
"Why are you so deferential to her. She seems like the bats are firmly in that belfry." Sirius said shaking his head.
Malcolm laughed, "Because she is Miss Beaumont and it is polite to treat her with respect. Even if she is a rather colorful character."
"Colorful character? She does remember what year it is? Or at least which century it is right?" He said.
"Yes. I am pretty sure she at least knows which century it is. The year might not be as firm though." he confessed as they walked towards the school.
"Great. We are staying with a crazy person." Sirius declared.
Remus said under his breath causing Harry to laugh, "I'm quite used to that." Sirius looked at the two of them suspiciously but said nothing else.
They had arrived at the school and Malcolm was showing them the front hall with the marble tiled floor, the trophy case with basketball and shooting trophies lined up. A few other trophies for cheerleading and band competitions rounded out the shelves.
"You guys don't have Quidditch?" Harry asked in a pained voice as he noticed there was none for that sport.
"No sorry it didn't really catch on as much over here. I think they still play it up in Salem and at Ilvermorny but that's about it." Malcolm said. "Now the library is right down here.
Hermione was happily leading the way to the room she had been pointed at. Two tall oak doors with leaded glass windows were pushed open by brass plates. She walked in and saw that this was not some small room tucked into the building like an after though but a large two story, well laid out temple to books. Polished oak and maple woodwork and shelves with large windows and stained glass lamps at various desks were scattered around the place. It looked like it took up most of the wing of the building.
She paused with her mouth hanging open briefly. "This is amazing."
"Yeah Amos, the village founder, wanted the school to have some of the best reference works possible. He spent a lot of money collecting books on all sorts of things.
She was exploring the shelves when she rounded a corner and bumped into a girl about her own age. The girl was of average height but her skin shone like a deep ebony. Her hair was a sweeping set of tightly curled braids falling to her shoulders.
"Oh I'm sorry I didn't mean to bump you. I wasn't paying attention to where I was going." Hermione quickly said helping the girl pick up the books she had dropped.
The girl laughed, "You're new in town."
"Yes we got in last night." Hermione explained, "My name is Hermione Granger."
"Oh from The Winter's Tale?" The girl asked showing a wide bright smile.
"Uh yes. My dad is a major fan of William Shakespeare."
"Cool. My name is Serenity. As my dad said when he found out he was having a daughter he was going to need a lot of Serenity." She laughed.
Hermione chuckled with her. "Nice." Handing the girl the books she had picked up Hermione noticed the title of the one, "Advanced healing potions? Are you considering becoming a healer?"
The girl shrugged, "I'm not sure. Dad says that a well rounded person knows a lot of stuff."
"Ahh I see you've met Serenity. She's one of our bright stars in the school here." Malcolm interrupted coming over.
"Oh hi Mr McGonnegal. Do you know these people?" She said looking at Harry with a smile.
Malcolm noticed and said, "Yes Serenity. They are students from my sister's school in Scotland. They're here on vacation."
"Oh so you won't be staying here for very long." She sounded slightly disappointed.
"Well we'll stay at least the summer." Harry said smiling, "Hi I'm Harry Potter."
She smiled shyly but otherwise did not seem to react to his name. Harry felt a thrill at not being recognized for once by a magical. "Oh hello. I'm Serenity Tyrone."
"Nice." Harry said smiling at the girl who smiled back then turning to Hermione said, "I'd like to talk to you about some of the spell concepts they teach you in your school. Maybe compare the transfiguration concepts?"
"Certainly. I would like that." Hermione said, she was looking at Harry sideways which made Serenity nod before saying.
"Well dad wanted me to come by the office after I got the books so if you'll excuse me." she said heading for the desk and signing out the books.
"Sure thing Serenity. Tell your daddy hi. We'll come by at some point."
"Sure thing Mr McG." she said smiling as she left.
"She seemed nice." Sirius observed neutrally.
"Yes. Her father is the Sheriff by the way." Malcolm casually pointed out causing Harry's grin to slip.
===xxx
"So she seemed nice." Hermione observed.
"Yeah. And she did not know me. She didn't recognize my name." Harry sounded quite happy about that.
"Oh that was the only thing you're happy about?" Hermione asked as they continued the tour.
"Uh yeah. What else would there be?" Harry asked in confusion causing Hermione to smile.
"Oh nothing." Hermione just casually said.
Sirius winked at Remus who was shaking his head in amusement at the teens.
"So the events of the Voldemort War haven't reached these shores?" Remus asked.
Malcolm shook his head, "Not really. It was one of those things that our local media reported on but since it was on the other side of the Atlantic it didn't have as emotional of an impact. Except for those of us who had family back there."
"So people aren't going to know who I am?" Harry asked eagerly.
"More than likely not." Malcolm confirmed. "There might be a few. But I doubt you're going to be as much of a celebrity over here."
Harry smiled with a relieved sigh.
Review Responses
OfficerDonNZ: Thank you. I like the Dave idea and how the differences between the younger teen versions and the adult versions of themselves. The interactions are the most important bits.
As for Dumbledore in the Nukewar I am not certain what happened to him. I know he won't survive to the end of the story. Probably won't even survive to the end of chapter 2 or 3 at most. Yes this idea is going to be at least a 5 or 6 chapter one.