Chapter 9 Learning (the bond)

14th August 1993, Library, Tonks house

Harry and Sirius are woken up early. Harry by Dobby standing over him almost sending Dobby to the wall (again). Sirius was woken up by Kreacher who is being the most respectful he has ever been to Sirius what made Sirius anxious was Kreacher tried or did something.

Andi has a big day planned especially as Andi has only a little over two weeks to get Harry up to speed on etiquette and have at least learned the basic for Occlumency even though Harry's Heir ring give him 'some' protection.

Andi also needs to do the same to Sirius but hopes he will at least remember some etiquette and still know the basics for Occlumency as she thinks his defence is completely broken by Dementor exposure. She didn't ask but she thinks Sirius is kind of 'sane' because of Padfoot … well the question is if Sirius was ever sane, to begin with. Andi smiles when she thinks about it.

Andi decides to start with etiquette as she needs to start from scratch here as Harry has never learned it and Sirius probably has forgotten everything as he was never good at it or at least never tried to learn it properly.

Andi had an early breakfast made by Dobby. She reluctantly let him make breakfast for her, Harry and Sirius. She let him so she could prepare the books and more than Harry and Sirius should need. As Dora had a big day yesterday and knowing her she will sleep in on her day off especially as tonight she will have a graveyard shift again.

What surprised Andi was that Dora said her boss Amelia Bones let her get a couple of more days off at the end of August which should be impossible especially with Sirius on the loose although Amelia trusts Sirius speaking the truth. Also that Harry isn't hurt even though Harry has already spent a week with Sirius shows that Sirius may speak the truth.

Harry with Hedwig on his right shoulder and Athena on his left or a least Athena's head is Harry walks in immediately followed by Sirius.

Harry says "hey Andi Dobby told us you want us to here."

Andi stands up and says "it is Madam Tonks until I allow you to call me by my first name Heir Potter."

Sirius decides to play this game to show Harry how purebloods are supposed to act. Sirius walks past an awkward Harry.

Sirius bows before kissing her hand and says "please accept my apology, Madam Tonks. Heir Potter is young. I am Lord Sirius Orion Black the third for House Black."

Andi smiles and says "it is a pleasure Lord Black please call me Andi."

Sirius says "then please call me Sirius or Padfoot."

Andi says "it seems all those times your father taught you the etiquettes wasn't a complete waste of time and effort from your father."

Andi asks "well Heir Potter do you know how to greet me now?"

Harry says "I think so Madam Tonks."

Andi says "very well Heir Potter let's try."

Harry says "Hedwig, Athena please go sit somewhere else."

Hedwig hoots before flying to a bookcase where she can sit without hitting the roof. Athena sees an open place in a bookcase where a few books were gone and slithers up in that place. Andi watches Athena as the books she gathers are actually supposed to be there.

Harry walks to Andi before he bows kiss her hand and says "Greetings, Madam Tonks. I am Heir Harry James Potter from House Potter."

Andi smiles and says "Greetings to you too Heir Potter. Please call me Andi."

Harry stops bowing and says "please call me Harry…."

Sirius says ", prongselet or pup."

Andi slaps Sirius's head and says "don't intrude Sirius. Also, you should be called a mutt."

Andi says "that was good Harry. You should every acquaintance that you at least like a little act like that unless the woman doesn't hold her hand as I did. Now between men, it is a bit more …. well normal or modern I guess. Sirius if you please."

Sirius nods and walks until he is almost right in front of Harry. He says "greetings I am Lord Sirius Orion Black the third from the most ancient and most noble House of Black."

Harry repeats "I am Heir Harry James Potter from the most ancient and most noble House of Potter."

Sirius holds out his hand. Harry takes it before he shakes it. Sirius says "call me Sirius or Padfoot."

Harry says "call me Harry."

Andi says "that is how you should greet other men mostly Heirs and Lords. Of course, like Sirius show, he who greets should be the first to extend the hand and it is your choice to shake it or not. Also among Allies, it is more common that you to grab each other forearm. Sirius?"

Sirius holds out his hand again but when Harry wants to extend his hand to shake it again Sirius moves his hand through Harry's hand to grab his forearm and gives Harry the look to do the same.

Andi says "that is a normal greeting between Allies even if you only use the first name if it is allowed. If you decline a hand to anyone it can be seen as a big offence by some houses also it mostly requires a reason for someone to decline. It is not uncommon for the lower standing House to offer a hand but that isn't always the case. If you decline a lower house it isn't seen as a big offence but many houses see it as an offence to their house and honour."

Harry asks nobody "it that the reason why Malfoy is like that or would it come to that because he is a Slytherin and I am a Gryffindor?"

Andi and Sirius hear. Andi knows Lucius Malfoy well and asks "what do you mean Harry?"

Harry tells Andi and Sirius about the time before sorting when they were waiting Draco Malfoy extended his hand to Harry and he declined the reason he was disrespectful to Ron while Ron did nothing wrong and that Harry can decide for himself who was good and who not.

Sirius says "no worries Harry. Malfoy would have hated you nonetheless because you are a Gryffindor even if you accepted his hand."

Andi says "that is true. Did someone else extend his hand to you?"

Harry says "only Ron and I shake it but it wasn't like I did with Sirius. It was more casually like our name but not from House Potter and him from House Weasley or grabbing each other forearm."

Andi nods and says "ah yes. That is a normal kind of meeting but on the other hand House Weasley has lost his standing a couple of generations ago by losing their money and their Lord, Lady and Heir ring. I remember Arthur. I would have thought he would learn his Heirs the traditions."

Harry says "maybe he does I mean Ron is the sixth child. He has five older brothers and one younger sister."

Andi says "yes now I remember his firstborn was William if I remember correctly."

Harry says "Ron says his oldest brother's name is Bill and the second oldest Charlie."

Sirius says "Harry, William can often be shorted to Will or Bill."

Harry says "oh then I guess so."

Andi says "anyway, as the sixth child with five older brothers I can understand if he doesn't know the proper way or not. Do you know his sister well?"

Harry says "not as much as I like."

Andi says "so you like her? Susan should know …."

Harry shouts "NO I DO NO….."

Sirius grips Harry's shoulder and says "Harry Andi Is just teasing. She doesn't mean anything by it. Now tell Andi what you mean."

Harry slowly calms down. Andi wants to ask Sirius what just happened but decides that she will ask later. This is important even though Harry already has a betrothed, but needs more almost by law. Andi as pureblood from House Black of course knows the law but also customs, rights, privileges and obligations.

After Harry calms down he says "I mean she is one year below my year and I should have talked to her more. She looked a bit lonely sometimes and when she wanted to talk to Ron he called her name that chased her away. I should have not let him. I know how lonely first years can feel and it must hurt having your brother call you names that obviously make her sad and wasn't in jest. I should have called Ron out on it, he is her brother and should be there for her."

"It is also the reason ….. well for some things that happened."

Andi and Sirius both knew about the Basilisk. Sirius from Minnie and Amy while Andi heard it from Sirius. They had decided for now they will not talk about it unless Harry want to talk about it and start the talk.

Andi says "anyway. I want to show it is the difference between a young girl and me. I am Madam as I am not a Lady. The houses that have Ladies of Houses from lowest to highest are noble, most noble, ancient, most ancient, ancient and most noble, most ancient and noble and the highest like your House Harry most ancient and most noble. Only those Houses have Ladies but as House Tonks isn't any I am not a Lady but also as I have no husband anymore and also not young anymore I am Madam Tonks for others."

"Young girls especially those without an active marriage contract is Miss. The same is for older girls without experience so to speak or at least that is commonly thought she is. Also, girls with no marriage contract and not betrothed while still young."

Harry looks confused. Sirius wonders if Vermin didn't even talk. He remembers making fun of James expense about that he needs to do the talk and now he needs to do it. Sirius hopes he can wait at least a bit or have some with a medical professional do it, in other words, let Andi do it.

Andi says "don't worry about it Harry that is more important for later. Sirius and I will talk about that in a few days. Anyway Ginny is then Miss Weasley. You can also say Heiress Weasley but as she has six older brothers Miss Weasley is much more appropriate."

Andi gives Sirius a look that means you are giving him the talk. I will only be there to make sure you don't mess up and clarify things when needed from a medical point of view.

Harry asks "and Susan? She is young but has an active marriage contract with me?"

Andi smiles seeing that Harry is observant. She says "that is a bit trickery as on the one side she is your betroth and has an active marriage contract but on the other side she is still a young girl. If you look at etiquette you can't call a witch or wizard by their first name until they allow it. In families it is different at least in most families but not in the Black family. Anyway back to Susan."

"You can call her Heiress Bones as that is what she is and the most appropriate. When she is married she will be Lady Bones although you are her husband, of course, don't have to call her like that then but that is between her and you. You can only call Heir of Heiress as the oldest of the second oldest after that Miss or Mr. is much more appropriate. Although it isn't uncommon despite any marriage contract or betrothed that you still call her Miss instead of Heiress as Heir and Heiress is mostly for adult wizards and witches."

Harry says "I think I understand. But what is Nymfie then?"

Andi smiles and says "I think is it, Miss, as she isn't married, in a relationship or has a marriage contract to my knowledge. She is also not betrothed and she is still quite 'young'."

Harry nods slowly and thinks 'I guess Andi is right' before he asks "should I do the same as I did with you and Sirius?"

Andi says "no Harry as in our family we do not but maybe with your friends, you can do although I don't think it is needed with Ron as you already kind of did. Of course, you only need to do it once to show proper etiquette especially if they allow you to call them by their first name."

Sirius says "Harry Andi forgot that some girl likes to be called my Lady when you greet them by etiquette like imagine Dora. You bow to her and say 'My Lady I am Heir Harry James Potter of House Potter' or like My Lady Nymfie although I suggest her whole name even if she doesn't like it. So if you do it to Dora, Miss is probably better."

"Anyway, in etiquette, she will respond with something like well met Heir Potter and introduce herself. Then you compliment her on her looks and tell her how she can address you it can be Harry of Heir Potter. Then she says the name you allowed her to call you and she says what you may call her. You respond with the name and if possible compliment her again by her nice name or something else."

"It is of course that later in the friendship or relationship a nickname develops. If so you don't have to do this all again. Like I have with Amelia Bones as she didn't mind it was okay if she did she could ask to not call her that again. I know she didn't want me to call her that but that was because it is a long time ago and it always makes her embarrassed among some other feelings. She probably didn't want to show it in front of Dora and Minnie not to mention Susan and you, Harry."

Andi says "Sirius is right but I won't do that to Dora as she can be a bit ….. how should I say this … easily embarrassed if complimented what makes her more clumsy than she already is. At least I think it is embarrassing, her hair has a special colour I rarely and still didn't figure out what it is exactly it looks like embarrassment like what Ted did but I can't shake the feeling it is different from when Ted or I praised her."

"Harry here a couple of books try to read them in the next couple of days. The books give more examples of proper etiquette. If you need some explanation we can answer otherwise there will be books that can help explain it. There is one book in the library that let you know when a House is called noble and up to most ancient and most noble. It is not important for etiquette but it is useful to know if we have the time. Harry start reading or rest to make sure you understand everything. Tonight after dinner we start with the other lesson what makes you help to understand everything we have told you."

14th August 1993, living room, Tonks house

It is just after dinner. Andi, Harry, Sirius and Nymfie sit in the living room. Nymfie has a bit of time before she needs to be at her work. Andi conjures four large pillows. She says "let's all take a seat on a pillow."

When they all have a seat Andi says "Harry what I will try to teach you is called Occlumency. Occlumency helps you in protecting your mind from witches and wizards who can read your mind as the muggles will say. We call that Legilimency and someone who practices it or can do it are called Legilimens."

"Sirius learned it in his youth and Dora needs to have at least basic shields to become an Auror. She is still a trainee but I have been teaching her what I can as only a Legilimens can properly examine an Occlumenses shield."

'Sirius's shield has been broken by the Dementor exposure so in the coming weeks I will teach you both what I can. As it takes time to create shields I will make sure you know the training so you can continue in Hogwarts, but I think it will take at least to Yule or new year next year if not later that have shields of your own. For now, the Heir ring will give you protection…. So never take it off. You don't have to fear others can as only you as Heir Potter can and you don't have a betroth for House Potter ….. yet."

Andi gives a gently smile and innocent wink while Dora gives Harry almost a 'slutty' wink which makes Harry looks embarrassed to the ground. Sirius has a large smile and barely suppresses laughing out loud.

Andi says "now Harry we shall start."

Andi glares at Sirius and says "what I say to Harry do too."

Sirius says "of course Andi."

Andi glares and says "you better do so or Padfoot will be neutered for at least six months."

Andi sees Sirius going white as he mutters "of course, you know that curse."

Andi says "of course, I know. It was one of the first curses we were thought at home and like you know it works on all species."

Andi's glare soften and says "Harry dear if you have trouble with the training in a couple of weeks just say so."

Harry nods. Andi smiles. She says "alright let's start. First Harry you need to empty your mind."

After a few minutes, Harry says "I can't Andi every time I try a large I think stag stays in my mind and far in my mind I see a tiger and another large stag surrounding something I can't see. Also, I can't get close as I kept away by the first stag that is not leaving my mind."

Andi looks at Sirius and asks "do you know anything about the stag?"

Sirius says "no, but I have an idea what the stag is or means."

Andi, Dora and Harry wait until he continues.

Sirius says "I think it is because of the Potter Heir ring as in the Potter crest is a Stag also with you father Harry. He had a Stag as Animagus, I think the tiger on the other hand points towards your mother as I have James called her his tiger-lily a few times."

Harry asks confused "my parents are in my mind? I can't learn Occlumency?"

Sirius says "Pup, how much I want your parents to be alive or in any way be with you they are not in your mind at least not them directly. Maybe it is some kind of help they manage to give you also I have no idea how that could be possible."

"I think to try to connect with the stag. The stag is probably your defence by the Heir ring. If you can connect with the stag it may do what you want and temporally leave your mind to work on your Occlumency or something similar."

Andi says "that is probably the best way to go. Harry try again first try to connect to the stag."

After a few minutes, Andi recognize that Harry managed to empty his mind. Andi let Harry for about an hour before Andi grabs Harry's hand. Harry looks at her.

Andi smiles and says "it worked didn't it Harry?"

Harry smiles and nods.

Andi says "great Harry. It is the first step now I want you to try and file your memories away. It may not work immediately and it will take years if not decades to file all your memories away but we can start with the etiquettes lesson from this morning and slowly work our way back from there. You need to categorize the memories and try to keep the same one together. Ask the stag to protect them he is your first and only line of defence at the moment."

Harry nods and starts to think about the memories. It takes almost an hour before he is sure he did it and slowly starts to think about yesterday which takes much longer. He manage until the marriage contract was finished with Susan. Harry gets pulled out of doing it by Sirius. He says "pup you did very good but you need to go to bed. It is already approaching midnight."

He looks and sees that Nymfie is gone and Andi is standing in the doorway to the kitchen. Harry asks "how did it go, Andi?"

Andi asks "to where did you manage Harry?"

Harry says "I think I managed to the end of the marriage contract with Susan as you said I need to work back from here."

Sirius says "so a couple of days?"

Harry says "I guess so."

Andi says "that is great Harry but we need to keep training up as while I may seem like now it is possible until you start making defences that the memories aren't properly filed. That is not your fault Harry Occlumency is very difficult to master. There are only very few who mastered it. Many even if they trained for decades while having strong defences never mastered it not even close."

Sirius says "you don't have to master it if you can't. Also, the way Dumbledore and Snape red your mind the Stag can be enough for now. They read your mind without forcing their way in. They use their eyes to subtly read others' minds. It is difficult for Legilimens to be able to do that but using Legilimency on someone, especially without the approval of the subject is against the law. They can only force by using their wand what everyone can see."

"How Dumbledore and Snape do it is known to many wizards and witches although I think nobody suspects Dumbledore do it on the children and also not think anyone who Dumbledore allows to teach the children will do it. Unfortunately, it is unable to prove it and to get a conviction."

Andi sighs and says "Sirius, don't worry Harry. Harry, why don't you go to bed? Tomorrow we are up early again to see if you still remember the etiquettes from this morning."

Harry nods and says "good night."

When he enters his room Hedwig opens one of her eyes and hoots before sleeping on her perch. Athena who lies on his bed opens her eyes and coils her body next to his pillow before closing her eyes again.

15th August 1993, Tonks House

It is early and just like yesterday Dobby and Kreacher wake up Harry and Sirius as Andi wanted them to do so. Andi starts the etiquette lesson again. Harry remembers and when Andi did the same as yesterday after Harry and Sirius did what they learned Andi says "Harry as this is the training I did it for a reason but normally after you did it once it isn't required to do that again unless you haven't seen the other for a long time or the friendship is gone."

"Most don't do it again as you saw with Sirius when you two came here also we are family so it is different, but some might if you haven't seen them for a long time. I mean longer than just a summer though."

Harry says "I understand so when I see Susan I need to do it again? And Ginny? And Neville? And Daphne? But what about Hermione she is a muggleborn?"

Andi smiles and says "I am not sure about Susan she is betrothed to you, but I think if you do it she will properly respond if she doesn't think it is needed she will stop you which normally is disrespectful but as she is your wife you don't need to think it is disrespectful."

"As you are not a good friend with Ginny I think it can be wise…"

Sirius winks and says "you can immediately compliment her I am sure she would like that. Woo her Harry."

Harry blushes "but…"

Andi says "stop that Sirius. Harry a compliment is a good idea but you don't have to Woo her. Just tell her you want to be her friend and if you think so you apologize for last year."

"I would certainly do it with Neville as his grandmother who probably raised him is a staunch supporter of tradition and etiquette."

Harry nods. Andi continues "Daphne is a Slytherin and probably also knows the etiquettes and to impress her I should do so but as the rivalry is still high between Slytherin and Gryffindor I should do it in private and only with the people you trust to watch if you want. The same goes for that other girl Tracey right?"

Harry nods and says "you are right I forget about her a bit."

Andi smiles and says "no problem Harry just don't do it too often. Now about Hermione your best friend if I remember correctly."

Harry gives a large smile and nods. Andi says "I would suggest you also use the etiquette on her."

Andi sees that Sirius wants to say something and with Sirius's smile she knows she needs to stop him. She points her wand and says "don't Sirius or I hex you."

Sirius's smile falters and holds his hand up in defeat as he can't protect himself.

Andi says "Harry, she is a muggleborn and while there is nothing wrong with that the etiquettes are important in our world. If you address her with the etiquette she may be able to see the importance but more important if you do it or others use it on her in front of Purebloods and she replies like she should it will be a slap in the Pureblood's faces that in their eyes a mere muggleborn can reply as a proper witch."

"I know how the Slytherin Pureblood thinks after all I was a pureblood Slytherin with the only difference is that I do not hate muggles or muggleborns. I want to claim I never did but that would be a lie. The years through Hogwarts make me change my mind and not because of the teachers, to be honest. The muggleborns during Hogwarts changed my mind as that was easy while I was taught to hate them and I did, I never agreed with my family's thoughts but from an early age I was told to hate muggles and muggleborns I did."

Sirius says "while I think it will be great. Harry, you must trust Hermione otherwise you shouldn't."

Harry says immediately "I trust her completely."

Harry knows that is the truth but he wonders why he never told her about the bond with Hedwig and Athena. True he has only seen her the last two days. On the other hand, if he asks to talk to her when she was revived she would probably do it.

Sirius says "of course. However, she must trust you enough to never look Dumbledore or Snape in his eyes as we want to keep from Dumbledore and Snape that you met me. If they see you teaching Hermione about etiquette or something then they will try to find out from you how you know."

"Dumbledore probably knows about your friendship with Daphne and Tracey. They may think they did although Snape will read your mind for the sole purpose of hoping I was stupid enough to find you, what I did. Still, I don't find it stupid."

"If you learned how you should maybe even Dumbledore find you improved very much for only being taught by letters and maybe books. Minnie probably is on our side and can try to point Dumbledore in the wrong direction. However, I wouldn't put it past Dumbledore to have Minnie make a vow. We can be happy that Minnie has a shield and will probably feel Dumbledore's subtle Legilimency if he tries, even better is if Dumbledore tries Minnie will believe us more if she didn't before if she feels him and can stop him."

Harry says "I understand. I think I can ask Hermione to do that but I am afraid she will forget …. well not forget it is more than she trusts the Professors."

Andi says "I can understand you want to be able to trust your professors but Snape and Dumbledore aren't trustworthy. Snape certainly isn't Dumbledore is if he manages to change a bit."

Harry says "Sirius said the same about Dumbledore. Was or is he really that bad?"

Andi says "I know Sirius said that dear. Well maybe not bad but he believes his way is the only good way no matter the cost even if it cost lives. I do want to make clear that he didn't is the reason your parents died."

Andi looks at Sirius and he nods. Andi says "Harry also about your parents and Peter Pettigrew being the real traitor I think it is better for now you don't tell anyone even Hermione. If she read books she will probably believe Peter Pettigrew died a hero's death what you know isn't true. It is true they only found a finger but Sirius managed to do that but from other wounds, he caused by Sirius he died."

"I think the ministry modified that story as it will be causing chaos if you can still die from Death Eater attacks days later even when You-Know-Who was defeated as they thought Sirius was a Death Eater we know he isn't and never was or will be."

Harry is trusting Andi but keeping something from Hermione is difficult for him not to mention the same goes for Daphne, Tracey and Neville although he doesn't have a problem keeping something from Ron. Maybe because Ron wasn't with him after he used Parseltongue while Hermione, Neville, Daphne and Tracey still completely trusted him although Daphne and Tracey 'insulted' that he was too Gryffindor to be the Heir of Slytherin.

Harry understands why he can't tell anyone but that doesn't make it easier for him. He sees that Sirius agrees with Andi and says "I do not like it but I understand."

Andi says "Harry I can understand you don't like it but we both don't want Dumbledore to know about you know us or even stayed with us. We need Dumbledore to think that he still controls you or at least has the last say. We think you have also a tracking charm or multiple on you but our house has charms against those tracing charms if needed."

"As Dumbledore isn't in England at the moment. Sirius and I think that Dumbledore doesn't know you are here with us and not at the Leaky Cauldron as I think that is what he suspects as by his knowledge you don't know us or except that Sirius escaped you don't even know we exist."

Harry suddenly asks "why didn't you?"

Andi gently says "Harry dear we tried, but Dumbledore took you out of the wizarding world as no one knew where you were. We thought Dumbledore took you to the muggle world and Ted tried every one of his contacts in the muggle world to find you without success. When you went to Hogwarts like it was highly publicised in the Daily Prophet. Dora and I were happy that you seemed okay we found and still find you on the small side."

Andi waits hoping Harry will say something but he doesn't look in her eyes on purpose Andi and Sirius know it.

Andi continues "anyway while I wanted to go to King's Cross station at the end of the year to take you here to Dora's and my home I knew that within probably an hour Dumbledore would be here at our door to take you to where you should go."

"Everyone will see you go with me and as they say Bellatrix Lestrange Dumbledore will know it is me within a second. Also, I don't want those who were waiting for you to be concerned."

Harry mumbles something that sounds 'like they care. They are happy to get rid of me."

When Harry doesn't say anything else Andi got the urge to hug Harry as his Aunt to make everything better as he is clearly sad, but she has noticed Harry doesn't like human contact unless he does it first or he thought he needs to like Sirius said about Harry hugging Susan as it would make Susan stop crying. Sirius doesn't know about Ginny or Hermione hugging Harry but that is what they did to him that Harry didn't like and tensed up both times but Hermione and Ginny didn't seem to notice.

Sirius is watching Andi about to see what she will do. She seems to not be dotting on him as he expected but that can be because of him being closed off, barely using or wanting human physical contact and Andi needs to meet and get to know him all over again. The same goes for him and Dora. Sirius knows he needs to meet Hermione and Daphne maybe even Ginny or Tracey to know more. Sirius also knows that Harry kept something from him and the way how he became friends with Hermione and even Slytherins. It can't be as easy as Harry told him.

Andi says "why don't you both continue in the books. I will make us a small snack. Also Harry why don't I help you with potions homework and teach you about some of the most important potions."

Harry says "I will like that Andi."

Andi smiles and says "why don't we do that after lunch. If you need help with anything just let me know I am sure Sirius or I can help you. If you want I can read the essays and help you fix them if there are some errors."

Sirius says "that isn't needed Andi Harry has his own girl for it."

Andi looks at Harry interrogatively. Harry says shyly "yes Hermione mostly wants to help me."

Andi says "alright that is even better so I can help you more. If you want we can take a look at Ancient Runes and Arithmancy."

Harry smiles and nods although is he doubting a little bit.

20th August 1993, Tonks House

It was in the afternoon. Andi was called in for an emergency and she has just left. She thinks she will be back by dinner but if not she will let Dora know as Dora will be home by dinner. Andi reluctantly asked Dobby to make dinner tonight and Dobby is very happy to do so.

Sirius asks "Harry did you ask Andi about staying in the Leaky Cauldron?"

Harry says "I tried but I couldn't ask it as she let us stay here even while you are being seen as an escaped convict which probably could bring Andi serious problems, especially Nymfie as she is an Auror Trainee if you get found here. If you get caught and get fed a potion called Veritaserum which is also called the truth serum. It can make you reveal that you stayed here which also gives Andi and Nymfie problems, at least Andi taught that is what the potion does. Also that it is very hard to make not that she taught me how to make it although it sounds like she will in a couple of years, I wonder why."

"Anyway, Andi may think I don't really like staying here but I do. I don't want to let Hermione stay at the leaky Cauldron alone it may give her the idea I don't like being there with her. She is my best friend and she asked me to stay with her in the Leaky Cauldron I don't want to disappoint her."

Sirius smiles gently and says "I am sure she will understand although she will not like it. I wouldn't be surprised if she keep an eye on you or ask Dora to do that."

Harry says "I am not sure Padfoot. You said that nobody must know that I know you, know Andi or know Nymfie."

Sirius says "yes but don't forget Dora can take different female shapes. Just like she did yesterday when she makes those animal faces. She seemed very happy to make you smile like that."

Harry smiles. Sirius smiles gently as he says "she was so sad she couldn't make all those faces when she was younger but she could control her hair colour and you liked that too when she did change it in your colour of sometimes did Lily colour and length."

Harry says "still I can't ask that from her."

Sirius says "I understand Harry. Just don't wait too long."

Harry sighs "I will try."

Harry goes back to reading not seeing Sirius's mischievous face.

21st August 1993, library, Tonks House

It was in the afternoon again Sirius says "Harry Andi got flooed again, but she thinks she will probably be back before dinner."

Harry nods while he keeps reading. Harry hears a hoot and sees Hedwig flying towards him with a letter.

Harry says "oh you were getting me, something girl. I wondered why you weren't here this morning even though Andi made some bacon strips for you."

Hedwig hoots and Harry smiles and says "of course girl. I can ask if Andi would mind making you some bacon strips during dinner. Let me get you some owl treats with bacon flavour."

Before Harry can stand up Dobby pops in with a bag. Dobby says "Dobby got Master owl's treats for Master Harry's owl Hedwig."

Dobby hands Harry the bag before popping out. Harry thanks Dobby before grabbing a couple of owl treats. He fed Hedwig and when she has the last he grabs the letter before he gives a few more owl treats. Hedwig hoots happily. Harry gives Hedwig a few scratches before he stops which makes Hedwig hoot disappointedly before flying to a perch Andi placed in the library for Hedwig.

Athena isn't in the library. Athena wanted to really hunt so she is looking in the garden for any mice or other things she can kill and eat. Harry remembers himself telling Athena not to eat Scabbers but that can wait.

Harry sees Sirius sitting in front of him with a large smile. Harry decides to not pay attention to him and opens the letter Hedwig brought him. Harry starts reading but doesn't notice that the moment he sees the handwriting he has a large smile on his smile.

Dear Harry,

I want to tell you so much about France. I had so much fun in France. We went to Paris. It was difficult to find the magic shopping district in France but we finally found it. It was great although I like Diagon Alley a bit more.

After we went to a place between Marseille and Nice on the Mediterranean. We spend a lot of time at the beach. I read things from last year to make sure I understand everything. Your notes are wonderful and when I didn't get something your notice explained it perfectly. Thank you so much, Harry.

Harry, I hope your relatives have been too bad for you. I am so sorry I couldn't get you away earlier. I hope you can still stay at the Leaky Cauldron when I stay there. I would like to spend time with you without Ron ….. as I also want to discuss with you how we can help Ginny.

I hope to see you at the Leaky Cauldron no later than the 26th. If you can't or your relatives don't let you go please let me know. I am sure my parents would come and get you.

With all my love,

Hermione

When Sirius sees that Harry is done reading he asks "sooooooo Harry is that one of your not girlfriends?"

Harry says "it is from Hermione. She is back in England and wants to know if I can …. well you know."

Sirius asks although he knows "why don't you tell me?"

Harry sighs and says "but you know."

Sirius says "why don't you tell me how you want to tell it to Andi and Nymfie."

Harry asks "do I have to?"

Sirius says "yes Harry you need to. I know you don't want to hurt Andi and Nymfie so pretend I am Andi."

Harry sighs deeply and says "alright Padfoot."

Harry put the letter down and says "Andi, I really like staying here and I hope I can again next year. I want to at Yule and Easter if you don't mind but I guess we can't at least not yet keep Dumbledore in the dark so to speak. I hope you don't mind, but my best friend stays in the Leaky Cauldron from the 25th until the 1st as her parents go to the states I don't know why but they are muggles."

"I don't want to her stay there alone she also asked if I can stay there with her. I hope you don't mind but I want to be there for her. I want to make sure that I really like it here and am happy I found my family again or the least family that I like. I don't want to seem ungrateful. I am very sorry I hope you don't mind and understand if you never want me here again."

Before Harry can react and in tears, Andi appears. Almost as she apparated Andi gives Harry a big hug. Harry sees Andi as his Aunt but as Andi hugs Harry she does push his head between her breasts almost choking Harry. Harry can't deny that Andi is still beautiful and that being pushed between her breasts feel really good.

Harry immediately thinks 'no she is my Aunt. What would Nymfie say is she could read my thoughts, but still it feels really good although I do need to be able to breathe.'

Sirius says "I am sorry Harry but Andi didn't have an emergency at all. I know you had trouble with talking to her so I thought if you think she wasn't here you can and it seems you can. Andi, Andi you can better let go of Harry you are choking him."

Andi barely hears Sirius. She releases her grip and sees a very red Harry.

Andi says "you are always welcome here Harry. You don't have to be sorry while I want to let you stay here I can understand, but if you stay at the Leaky Cauldron. However, we are going to set some ground rules young man or I will stay there with you and I better not hear you slept in the same room as her. I will not allow that until you are her boyfriend and committed to getting bethro….."

Harry shyly barely able to keep from stuttering says "it isn't like that she is just my best friend."

Sirius says "we know Harry but let's just say it wouldn't be the first time best friends end up together. The only difference is that you will have more than one wife."

Harry asks shyly " Andi, so you don't mind?"

Andi smiles gently and says "I would prefer you to stay here, but like you said she is your best friend and I can understand you want to be there for her. Normally I would have you invite her here instead but like you said to Sirius, Dumbledore mustn't know certainly you not yet."

"Are you going to tell her about inflating your uncle's sister?"

Harry says "I think it is best. If she hears it from someone else like Susan or Hannah Susan's best friend she can think I kept it from her and I don't want that."

Andi says "so Gryffindor of you Harry, but that is alright I don't mind you being a Gryffindor I even like that you are. I think we can better make sure that we will be early on the 25th as we don't know how late your best friend will arrive there."

Harry asks "we?"

Andi says "yes, we. We are going with you. We will have lunch at the Leaky Cauldron if your friend isn't there at that time. While I can't meet her yet that doesn't mean I can't see her."

"Now the ground rules. You will not enter London or Diagon Alley alone. You will be in the Leaky Cauldron before dinner time and not be out of it before breakfast. Every night before you go to bed do the training for Occlumency. You don't tell anyone about Dora, Sirius or me, not even your best friend or your betroth Susan. You will never take off your ring not even under the shower and will keep it invisible. Also, you will tell no one about the tattoo's on your arms until we know what it is and isn't dangerous as it severely tired you out."

Andi's voice turned gently and says "after we got you a room, we are going to go into Diagon Alley to get your presents for your friends like you wanted to do after Gringotts but we didn't want to tire you out as you still look tired despite King Ragnarok was nice enough to let you rest."

Andi's voice turns harsh and says "Sirius I will allow you to be with us but you will be Padfoot the entire time."

Sirius gives a large smile. He stands up and almost immediately he turns into the Grimm. He starts to bark happily running around until he jumps onto Harry pushing him to the ground and starts licking his face.

Even Andi can't suppress a smile seeing a smiling Harry. She does wonder how sad Dora will be. Andi knows from Sirius what has happened with apparently a basilisk last year, that is mostly the reason she doesn't want Harry to walk alone but on the other hand, what can a barely fourteen-year-old witch do. Amelia Dora's boss certainly likes Harry otherwise as a guardian she could force Susan to not talk about the marriage contract. Maybe if I 'ask' Dora to tell Amelia or maybe if Dora 'accidentally' mentions it and Amelia will have Dora shadow Harry until he is safe on the train.

21st August 1993, Nymfie's bedroom, Tonks House

It was late at night and Andi decide that she can better tell Nymphadora. Andi sees light coming from under her door. She knocks and she hears Dora move quickly before she hears Dora fall.

Andi opens the door and sees Dora on the ground in her nightclothes but with a book on the ground just out of reach. Andi grabs it and puts it on her desk. Andi smiles and Dora's hair turn red in embarrassment when she sees that her mother knows what is it. Andi says "Nymphadora I didn't know you still write in your diary?"

Dora says almost like a little girl "I helped me when daddy died and now with Harry finally being here as our family. I just want to write in my diary."

Dora's hair becomes even redder than before. Andi says "so if I open it and read I am not going to read something like Nymphadora Potter or something?"

Dora stutters "n-no, o-of course not."

Dora stops stuttering as she knows the reasons that a relationship will not work between her and Harry. The reasons are always strong in her mind although during the last few days the voices were slowly being replaced by Harry's green eyes, raven hair and laugh. Her hair becomes less red but still red, from crimson red to Weasley's red.

Dora says "our age difference is too big it is seven years and also Harry will have more wives. When I am ready I want my wizard for myself. I mean I am a woman with needs."

When Dora's mind knows what she said her hair stays red from embarrassment.

Andi asks "are you sure Dora? Now seven years look a lot but after Hogwarts, it is almost nothing if you look at the average life expectancy for witches and wizards. Also with the amount of magic Harry shows I am sure he can satisfy quite a couple of witches before he is satisfied himself or is tired. A wizard with a lot of magic like Harry has a lot of ….. let say stamina."

Andi laughs as Dora's hair became even redder. Andi is delighted she can still embarrass Dora even when Dora is a very outgoing witch.

Andi decides to have mercy on Dora. Andi says "Dora, I know you may not like it but on the morning of the 25th Harry will go to the Leaky Cauldron and stay there until the 1st."

Dora almost screams "you send him away. How could you mom? Do you mean that you like him was all a lie? What about when he was younger I remember how you were mesmerized about him and dotting as others would say."

Andi glares at Dora until she calms down. Andi says harshly "Nymphadora ho….."

Dora immediately says "don't call me Nymphadora."

Andi doesn't back down and says "I will call you Nymphadora as that is your name, there is nothing wrong with it and also that you blame me for something horrible. If you just let me explain."

Andi glares at Dora. Dora is actually afraid as she has never seen her that mad not even when she knew what happened to her father. Dora nods.

Andi says "as I said NYMPHADORA Harry goes as he wants to stay there. His best friend will stay from the 25th of August to the 1st of September. Even though she is a girl I would have been more than happy to invite her here, but as she is a muggleborn the change she has Occlumency shields is basically zero. As we don't want Dumbledore to know that Harry didn't go to Leaky Cauldron while he probably would as he didn't know Sirius, you or me to begin with. We must be happy that Sirius's Animagus Padfoot made Harry trust Sirius and how we meet again. Dumbledore must not know."

"We will go with him that day and we will make sure that we will see his best friend. Of course, we will pretend we don't know him and I will make sure that I don't remotely look like Bellatrix even if I need to do a glamour charm. We will go early that day so before his best friend arrives we can go with Harry to the Leaky Cauldron and Daigon Alley as he wants to buy some things for his friends mostly birthdays."

"Sirius will be going with us but will stay Padfoot the entire time as I know the change is small Sirius will let Harry go without trying to make him join us. I don't know if you can come as you may need to work."

Dora immediately says "I will ask Madam Bones."

Andi nods and says "well. I will let you get to sleep. I need to start at the potions tomorrow early I did think I had a few more days to brew them. I won't be done before the 25th but I can before the 1st of September. The potions will take almost a week before they are done. At least the potions I think will be the best for Harry. He needs to drink them every day for a couple of weeks as long as he eats enough during breakfast, lunch and dinner."

Andi left and when she closes the door she has smiled as she had the same idea as Dora. She didn't have an owl but maybe Hedwig will be nice enough to deliver her message. She walks to the door across what is Harry's room. Actually, it is her guest room but she hopes she can soon call it Harry's room very soon.

Andi opens the door. She walks in and sees Harry sleeping with Athena next to him all coiled up and Hedwig on her perch. She can't help looking at Harry and even with everything that has happened he sleeps just as adorable as when he was a baby although you can see that between the careless cute baby and now something has happened as she doesn't just mean losing his parents. She is afraid that she would help Sirius kill Harry's uncle, aunt and cousin if it is their fault.

She gently walks to the bed and gently touches Harry's cheek before slightly pushing his hair out of his face. After almost 15 minutes she knows that what she does is a bit creepy. It is just after so many years see Harry safe again especially after fighting a Basilisk. Andi is wondering if Athena in any way could be related to the basilisk but actually, it doesn't matter as Athena seems to like Harry and while she can't talk Parseltongue Athena seems to listen to Harry especially when it is necessary.

She stands up and walks to Hedwig's perch. She gives her a few scratches. Hedwig hoots in her sleep. Andi gently tries to wake Hedwig up. After almost ten minutes Hedwig opens one of her eyes. Andi asks "Hedwig I need your help. I need you to deliver a letter for me. Can you?"

Hedwig opens her eyes and hoots quietly to not wake Harry. Hedwig opens her wings and flies to the desk. Andi says "I still need to write it Hedwig as I wasn't sure if you wanted to deliver it for me."

Hedwig hoots and flies from the desk to her shoulder. Hedwig push her head to Andi. She scratches while walking to leave Harry's room. Andi manages to leave Harry's room without waking Harry up or Hedwig making a lot of sounds.

She walks to the living room to grab parchment, quill and inkpot. They have an office that Ted used for his clients and has only muggle writing gear like pens and notebooks.

She writes two letters. Hedwig looks at her and she says "Hedwig please deliver first this letter and after you did can you come back to take the other one. The first letter is for Amelia Bones and the second letter is for Professor McGonagall. If they want they can give you a reply."

Hedwig grabs the first letter and impatiently waited for Andi to open a window. The moment Andi did Hedwig with immense speed fly away. Andi doesn't know for sure but it looked like Hedwig had the black lightning bolt and black lines around her eyes, but as it is dark outside and Hedwig flies away from her she can't be certain as Hedwig has no mark on her back or wings.

Andi decides to keep the window open to make sure if Hedwig comes back during the night if she has a reply deliver it here before she takes the other letter to Professor McGonagall. The wards around their house should stop any burglars, especially muggle ones.

21st August 1993, Greengrass Manor, South Glamorgan, Wales

It is late at night but Daphne is still awake. The books she found earlier the summer she has read cover to cover four times already. After the first time, some bonds were difficult to understand so she read it a second time. After the second time, she understood most if not all bonds. She does understand the bonds that she could use.

The third time she read it was to make sure she didn't miss any bonds or if there were any drawbacks to the bonds she can use. The fourth time was the one that work the most she needs to give up control. Something her father never said she should do. Her father taught her and her little sister Astoria to always keep control of every situation.

Daphne knows that she can trust Tracey and her family but she needs to decide on her own and if she will, she will not bulge especially as it will also help them. If that is what it takes to protect Astoria from the snake pit together with Tracey and Lilian if Lilian chooses her side and not Pansy and therefore Malfoy's side she would do whatever it takes.

Daphne doesn't hate Pansy but Pansy told them that the marriage contract became active in the third year per contract. Pansy is at least happy there is a virginity clause. However, to compensate the Malfoys with that clause there is an obedience clause for Pansy that starts this year. Daphne wonders if the Parkinsons put the virginity clause in the contract as it is very uncommon for the last generations except for very dark families, not that it matters now. Also, Houses with a single Heir or Heiress that have a(n active) marriage contract seldom use a virginity clause in the contract hoping to get the next heir as soon as possible to improve the security that the House will live on quickly.

Although during the war against You-Know-Who the Parkinson's were supposed to be neutral, Daphne with Pansy's stories highly doubts that at least her father is a Death Eater. Daphne is suspected of being a Death eater maybe not marked but he did support You-Know-Who if Pansy's story is correct.

Daphne reads the bond called 'the bond of the heart'. Daphne reads that at least the one that wants to use the bond must feel real love for the target. What fears Daphne the most is that the target can deny making the bond. Daphne starts to blush when she sees what needs to be done to complete the bond, but also that when she wants to complete the bond she needs to give up all control at least during that time.

Daphne shocks when she read after completion the control will lie with the target. He can control her and while she keeps her own mind and can refuse she will have a strong urge to obey. A strong urge to listen. Daphne wonders if the urge is stronger than she already feels when she is around him and that makes her scared for the first time in a long time.

She thinks she can trust Harry, but she wonders if she really can. She knows Harry is a good person he saved Ginny Weasley who he barely knows although Ronald Weasley is his best mate what Daphne finds mindboggling with what she has seen of Ronald. She feels bad and dirty even thinking about the youngest Weasley son, but she is not when she thinks about the twins.

Daphne thinks 'should I really do this? I am not sure. I will do anything for my family and my friends. The problem is that Harry needs to agree. If he does not my life in the snake pit will be filled with fear, horror and also humiliation as it will shame me and my family. That does not mention what they will do to me, Astoria and Tracey. Tracey and I have heard horror stories when you go against your house in the slightest. It looks straight out of a horror story, especially for females. It seems the more people see me doing the bond and Harry accepting the stronger it is at least that is what the book says.'

'However, even if the world sees it the bond must be completed in time. Unfortunately, there is much unknown about the bond as only very few bonds did work out and were researched. I wish I know more about this bond or there is more information. The Hogwarts library is big but I never found any book about bonds.'

Daphne writes on a bit of parchment the most important things about the bond and starts to think about how she wants to do this but also wonders if she can do it. She knows she loves Harry but does she really love him as it needs to be real love to work. Also, how can she make Harry agree as he doesn't seem to know pureblood customs and also he needs to say it in a certain way something she hasn't even learned from her father during the lessons about pureblood customs and etiquette.

Daphne can only think of one way and it is the one she dreads the most. She needs Hermione to somehow agree with what she is about to do but she thinks Hermione will not as it may seem like Daphne wants to steal her love even if she doesn't see it and also Daphne can see that it looks like she is manipulating Harry to become her Lord Husband. While Daphne wants almost nothing more she doesn't want to manipulate Harry. Sure it is also for her protection, her friends and her family that doesn't mean she is the only one to benefit from this besides her being with the boy she loves.

Daphne thinks to tell Hermione that Harry can have more wives to persuade Hermione to help her if she refuses by using the words love and being his wife. She thinks she may need Tracey or Susan to help her convince Hermione about the bond, not what is in it but like what is seen as real love and not that Daphne loves Harry because he saved her from the Troll, he is the-boy-who-lived or Heir of House Potter but the real him Harry Potter Gryffindor, third-year and wonderful seeker. Sure that he is Heir Potter help to save her and everything but still it is not the main reason. She will love him even if he was a penniless muggleborn although that would have disappointed her father. Still, he will have accepted it immediately after being disappointed for a bit of time and Daphne proves she really loves him.

Daphne closes the book after writing the most important things. She put the book back and goes to her bedroom. She hopes she dreams about what is to be one of Harry's wives and the face of Malfoy when she does it with Harry agreeing or at least accepting her. Malfoy is slowly gaining more power but he will never rival Harry's power in magic or House. She does wonder how powerful Harry is in Gryffindor it seems he hasn't much power but does have some strong supporters like the Gryffindor Quidditch team, Hermione and Heir Longbottom although Hermione and Heir Longbottom are no surprise, especially Heir Longbottom.

Let's end here for now. I want everyone to know that the updates will take some more time, especially in the coming weeks (if not months). I will complete all the stories in time, a long time.

In the next chapter, we will see what Andi wrote in the letters and we go to the Leaky Cauldron to meet Hermione and the last few days stay there. If words allow it we do the wizengamot session, Daphne's decision and the Weasley's returning from Egypt. Maybe we even reach the train ride.

Please read and review. PMs are highly appreciated.