Chapter 13 A fanged encounter
25th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London
Harry leaves the private room to go this his room. He sees Andi, Tonks and Padfoot. He gives them a smile before ascending the stairs. He walks to his room.
25th August 1993, Harry's room, Leaky Cauldron, London
As soon as he enters Hedwig hoots and flies to his right shoulder. She bumps her head before returning. She hoots something and Harry says "yes, Hermione is downstairs and I am just grabbing one of the necklaces that I imagine she may like."
Hedwig hoots something else and Harry immediately stands up. He says "no, Hedwig. It is just to protect her nothing more. She is my best friend."
Hedwig hoots angrily. Harry says "you are too Hedwig but you are more a companion. That will not say you are less important than Hermione, but it is just different. You both are important to me."
Hedwig hoots accusingly. Harry says "no, Susan isn't at the moment but I think she will be shortly, very shortly."
Hedwig hoots angrily again "Hedwig, she is my future wife, my betroth. She will become very important. I don't think she will surpass Hermione or you, but she will at least be just as important as Hermione and you."
Hedwig seems not very satisfied and hoots. Harry says "oh come, Hedwig. Why don't you sleep a little bit you can see Hermione some other time and I can get you bacon strips tomorrow morning."
Hedwig hoots and Harry says "no."
Harry bends down to look in his trunk for the necklace. He decides to also grab the bag with Galleons as he doesn't want Hermione to know about his Heir ring yet. He got the bag full of Galleons that should be enough for Hogsmeade Harry thinks. Hedwig keeps hooting she wants to come and doesn't matter if he wants to or not. Harry decides to not respond.
Athena sis §Master, can I go back to your arm?§
Harry sis §yes you can. I want to introduce you soon anyway.§
Athena slithers up to Harry's left arm and put her head on his shoulder.
Harry sis §when we leave the room hide until I tell you to come out alright?§
Athena sis §yes Master.§
Athena keeps pushing her head to Harry's cheek while Harry seeks the boxes. It takes almost 5 minutes before he finds the right box. He opened four boxes before he find the right one. Harry smiles as he closes the box and takes it out of his trunk.
When he stands up he sees that Hedwig has flown to the bed right in front of him as his trunk as in Hogwarts is at the end of his bed. He looks at her. Hedwig just keeps looking at him.
Harry says "no Hedwig. I already told you, no."
Hedwig clearly doesn't like that as she starts to fly around his head. When that doesn't work she flies in front of the door. When Harry approaches Hedwig did not budge and keeps blocking his way. Harry doesn't know if he can force his way through but that could hurt Hedwig and that is something he would never. He would rather kill himself than hurt Hedwig even though Hedwig may bring him back to life to scold him for killing himself before probably Hermione does it ….. and Susan.
It goes on for several minutes. Harry thinks he can finally leave as Hedwig starts to move. Harry groans when he sees that Hedwig managed to sit on the doorknob. He can't leave with her on the doorknob. He sees Hedwig's smug smile and says "fine."
Hedwig hoots happily and flies to Harry's right shoulder. Harry rolls his eyes and has a clear look of annoyance on his face. He will always love Hedwig but sometimes she is really pushy which reminds him a bit of Hermione sometimes.
25th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London
Harry walks back into the room with one box and Hedwig on his right shoulder. Hermione sees that Harry has something around his left arm she is sure he didn't have before.
Harry says "sorry it took so long. I needed to choose the right one I thought Hermione may like. Also, it took some time before Hedwig would let me go. Finally, she decides to come with me as I didn't plan to do as she asks also she wanted to see you, Hermione. I don't know why. When I told her your parents were here she was firmer she wanted to come. She also wants some bacon strips."
Hedwig jumps to the table and walks to Hermione before bumping her head to her shoulder. Hermione understands and gives her a scratch. Harry says "of course, she wants that too."
Hedwig hoots something. Harry says "Hedwig it was too far and I am sure she will tell me everything soon."
Hedwig hoots something again. Harry sighs and says "I think we can go to France somewhere in the future."
Hedwig hoots and Harry says "I don't know. Can we discuss this later?"
Hedwig hoots something that looks like you better or I will be really mad.
All the time Hermione gives Hedwig a scratch. Hedwig moves from Hermione to her parents who give her a scratch for half a minute before returning to Hermione. When Harry sits down and put the box on the table it takes a few more minutes before Hedwig steps away from Hermione and flies to the backrest just to the right of Harry. Hedwig is between Hermione and Harry.
Harry says "here Hermione. I thought you will like this one. I hope you like it?"
Harry opens the box and lets Hermione see it She gasps as the necklace looks beautiful. She sees that the chain is gold and the necklace has an emerald. Hermione sees the emerald and it immediately remains her of Harry's eyes although the emerald shines more than Harry's eyes although she likes Harry's eyes that she would never admit.
Hermione says "I love it, Harry. It looks beautiful. Are sure you want me to have it? It looks very expensive?"
Harry says "I am sure Hermione as I said I want you to have it as I think it will look good on you and it will give you protection to what you value the most."
Hermione almost wants to say that she values Harry at least as much as her mind. She barely suppresses it as she also wonders where that thought came from. She likes Harry a lot …. as a friend but she never made a comparison between her mind and Harry. Deep down in her heart, she knows she likes Harry much more but she can't make herself believe it as she knows if she ever thinks or accepts it like that she will feel much more for Harry if not love and will only hurt her in the end.
Hermione gently grabs the necklace and asks "Harry could you help me to put it on? I think if I put it over my head it will get stuck in my hair."
Harry nods and grabs the necklace. Hermione grabs her hair to hold it up. Harry fumbles a bit until he locks it around her neck. Harry lets go and Hermione feels the necklace. She smiles and says "thank you, Harry."
Emma says "it looks nice on you, dear, Don't you think so Dan?"
Dan nods with a big smile which makes Hermione blush a bit. The necklace starts to light up and Dan's smile turns into a scowl. He demands "what is happening?"
Harry says "I don't know but the shopkeeper told me that the necklaces will adjust to the wearer the longer the wearer wears the necklace. I think this should be the first step and it will start to defend her mind even if she doesn't have any existing defences."
Just as Harry stops talking the light dies down. Dan immediately as "sweetie, are you alright?"
Hermione blushes and says "yes Daddy. I am alright. My mind feels … I don't know it just feels different than before but not bad."
Emma asks "are you sure Hermione?"
Hermione nods and says "yes Mom. Harry thank you so much."
Hermione is barely suppressing an urge to launch her at Harry again.
Harry blushes and says "I just want to protect you Hermione if I can. Please promise you don't take it off as I need to connect with you, to make it sooner I think you need to wear it at all times as that will keep you also protected all the time. You should be able to wear it all the time."
Harry blushes harder as he says "the necklace can get wet like if you… shower, you should still be able to wear it without damaging the necklace."
Dan wants to say something when Emma gives him an elbow in his ribs that keeps him from saying anything. Dan looks at Emma and she gives him the look that says that he should look and not talk.
Dan looks at Harry and Hermione. It takes a couple of seconds before he sees what he thinks Emma means, the pure truth in Harry's eyes. Harry's body language also says the truth but also that he is embarrassed about what he said to Hermione. Dan gives a short nod Emma sees that makes her give a small nod knowing that Dan will not get mad at Harry for the necklace and will not get mad at Harry no matter what or at least that is what Emma hopes for Harry and Hermione.
They see Hermione glancing at Harry's left arm when Hermione asks "Harry, what is on your left arm? It seems like something is around it?"
Harry doesn't want to lie and also doesn't have a reason to lie especially as he wants to keep Athena with him in the dorm and such also she can be a great help to keep an eye on Malfoy or something.
Harry says "Hermione, I want to show you and your parents. I want you to know everything is alright and you don't have to be afraid. I hope you can trust me."
Hermione says "Harry, I trust you with my life. I already said I trust you. If you say it is alright I completely trust you but I must say you make me very curious."
Harry looks at Hermione's parents and says "I also want to promise you that everything is alright."
Emma smiles and nods while Dan nods reluctantly barely noticeable that he nods.
Harry says "last year, Hermione told me that I can talk Parseltongue easy said the ability to talk to snakes. I knew I had the ability as I talked with a Boa constrictor in the reptile house when I was at the zoo on my cousin's birthday before my first year."
Hermione and Emma are surprised not by the story (as Hermione told her parents about Parseltingue) but by what Harry is implying.
Harry continues as he says "Hermione told me it was a very rare ability and the most renowned is Salazar Slytherin as that is also why the Slytherin's house emblem is a snake or serpent, an animal who speaks Parseltongue."
Harry sees that Hermione and Emma know and that Dan almost knows.
Harry says "it may be weird but around my muggle relatives I found her."
Harry sis §Athena, show yourself but don't attack anybody.§
They hear Harry's sis and they see from around Harry's arms something move for a bit before around his wrist a snake head appears and slithers out from his shirt.
Athena looks around but doesn't move to attack.
Athena sis §Master, can I now go back to your arm above your tight shirt.§
Harry nods. Athena's sis happily as she slithers back to Harry's left arm and slithers up it until she is coiled around his arm with her head on his shoulder.
Harry says "this is Athena and as you can see she is a snake and as I just said I can talk to her."
Hermione and her parents are surprised especially since Hedwig clearly sees Athena and doesn't is afraid or attacks Athena. Hermione trusts Harry and as Hedwig doesn't seem too afraid of Athena or attack her to protect Harry Hermione is sure that Athena is no threat. Also, she must admit Harry can talk to Athena and he will surely not keep her if she is a threat.
Hermione looks closely at Athena and she is shocked. Emma and Dan notice Hermione's shock.
Dan asks "what is there Hermione? You look shocked and not afraid."
Hermione says "Daddy, I am not afraid as I trust Harry completely and if he says everything is alright I trust him. Also, Hedwig seems to trust Athena or at least doesn't see her as a threat to Harry or she would have attacked Athena. I am shocked as I know what Athena for species of snake is."
Before Hermione can continue Harry with a smile says "I was sure you would find out what kind of snake Athena is as I surely have no idea."
Hermione asks "how can you do that Harry? Why did you take her if you didn't know how dangerous she is? Ho….."
Harry cut her off which makes Hermione mad. Harry sees that but says "Athena is not dangerous as you see."
Hermione sees the truth in Harry and for the first time ever she blushes and looks to the ground in embarrassment. This is the first time she isn't sure if what she says is the truth or that she is right. She says "I am sorry Harry. I didn't mean Athena I mean her species is dangerous."
Hermione feels the need to obey and apologize. After she apologized she wonders why she feels this way to obey Harry. She really needs to talk to Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey but that need to wait until she is back at Hogwarts.
When Harry doesn't say anything but looks at her Hermione understands Harry is waiting on her to tell her what species Athena is.
Hermione goes into her lecture mode and says "I am almost completely sure Athena is a Terciopelo also known as a Bothrops asper. I remember I read about them and are a certain species of pit viper and extremely venomous. I wonder how, you said, she is here as they also appear in northeast Mexico and Central America. The species is also found in Colombian and Ecudarian Anders up to 8530 feet."
"They also appear in Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago on the Caribbean coast. They can be as heavy as 14 pounds and the maximal length is 8.3 feet Terciopolo is among the largest pit viper….. at least that is what is discovered by muggle discoveries."
"They are mostly light to dark brown in colour to camouflage themselves in their natural habitat. Often they have yellow zig-zag shapes on each side of the body. I see that Athena is greener with black zig-zag-shapes on each side of her body."
"They are called the ultimate pit viper because of their large size for a pit viper but also the fangs and venom have a fearsome reputation. Its fearsome reputation is as it is responsible for most snakebites within its range strike because of its defensive temperament and aggressiveness when feeling danger. They live near human residences, which makes the number of snakebites increase. The snakes try to avoid confrontation with human whenever possible and that is why it is aggressive when they are corned by humans as the aggressiveness is for defensive if they think they cannot escape at least that is what is said by muggle researchers."
Harry says "alright. That helps a lot Hermione, but I can show you she is not dangerous. You can pet her if you want."
Hermione isn't sure but wants to show Harry she really trusts him with her life. If she gets bit she will surely be able to reach a hospital but as she is still an adolescent girl and taller than Harry, not by much she will probably be much faster in danger than an adult. Her parents are surely apprehensive about Athena and Harry's decision to have her with him.
Hermione wants to show her parents she trusts Harry's decision. She slowly nods. Harry's smile makes her almost completely remove her anxiousness.
Harry sis § Athena, can you get on the table? Hermione wants to pet you if you don't mind?§
Athena sis §if Master wants Master's friend to pet me, I don't mind. Master's friend I Athena's friend.§
Harry is a bit pleased but says sternly §DO NOT ATTACK AND CERTAINLY NOT BITE HER!§
Athena nods and sis §I will never bite anyone Master doesn't want me to and as Master wanted if I or Master's friends can get hurt I will attack the attacker without biting the attacker unless the attacker wouldn't be stopped otherwise. I also liked to be petted but only do it if Master allows me to be petted and if it is Master's friend Athena will always allow it.§
Harry is pleased by petting her and letting her go to the table. Hermione slowly moves her hand to Athena.
Harry says "don't be afraid Hermione. She may also try to smell you with her tongue if I remember correctly that is how snakes smell and percept things."
Hermione nod. She gets close and Athena gets up a little and moves slowly towards Hermione's hand. She knows if she moves fast it might spook her and Athena wants especially this girl beside her Master's betrothed to like her. She smells and immediately wants to apologize even if she doesn't understand her. This is the last girl she attacked when she was the Basilisk. She moves a bit faster and before Hermione even knows it Athena pushes her head against her hand.
Harry says "good job Hermione. Now move your hand under her mouth and give her a scratch there. She likes that. You can use your nails."
Hermione uses her nails to gently scratch under Athena's mouth. Athena goes almost slack from how good it feels. She does make a sound that is almost a snake-like purr that a cat does when the cat is pleased.
Harry groans and says "she never done that to me. It looks like Hedwig and Athena like you a lot more than me."
Hermione immediately looks at Harry to assure her it isn't that. She should know she didn't need to as Hedwig immediately jumped to Harry's shoulder and start to bump her head against Harry in affection. Also, Hermione sees that Harry was at least partially joking. Athena immediately slithers to Harry to assure him while she likes Hermione a lot maybe more than she should he is still her master she loves the most. She pushes her head against Harry. Harry gives Hedwig and Athena scratches which they both like a lot.
Suddenly Harry's stomach grumbles and Hermione immediately says "we should order dinner. Should we get Tom?"
Emma says "that is not needed. If you know what you want if you put your wand at the bell he will come to take our order, but why don't you take a sip of the butterbeer before to know if you like it or not."
Hermione nods and takes a sip. She says "it is really good. Come on Harry try it."
Harry nods and stops scratching Hedwig and Athena what they both don't like that Harry stops. Harry needs a sip and before Hermione can ask if Harry likes it Harry thinks of a big sip.
Hermione asks "and?"
Harry says "it is very good. I would like another one."
Hermione says "me too."
Dan asks "it is really that good?"
Hermione and Harry nod.
Dan smiles and says "I will try a butterbeer then."
Hermione places her wand at the bell and barely a minute later Tom walks in to take their order.
After eating Dan and Emma pay for the food. Harry wants to pay for his own food and drinks as Harry ate quite a lot because of the potion as it is one of the effects although Hermione, Emma and Dan don't know about that. Emma didn't want Harry to pay for himself and Emma is like Hermione is strong-willed most of the time. Emma was adamant about them paying for Harry's dinner.
25th August 1993, Diagon Alley, London
It took almost an hour and a half before they are done eating and it is nearing 6 PM. Most of the stores are still open. Professor McGonagall told Hermione and her parents that in the last week of the summer most stores stay open until 8 PM and some even a bit longer although all the stores students would need it will be 8 PM unless there are important things in the magical world or if there are emergencies.
They immediately go to Flourish and Blotts even though Hermione already got her books she loved to go to Flourish and Blotts to see if there are other books she wants.
Hermione almost drags Harry to Flourish and Blotts. They don't notice that Andi, Nymfie and Padfoot are following them. They do notice Harry's smile while slightly shaking his head as Hermione drags him into Flourish and Blotts with her parents immediately entering Flourish and Blotts.
25th August 1993, Flourish and Blotts, Leaky Cauldron, London
Harry already has enough books. All his new electives are quite interesting although he hasn't been able to open the care of magical creatures book. Harry doesn't know why but he understands a lot of Runes even those he has never seen before while Arithmancy looks like Algebra as Hermione said.
Together with the other books and learning Occlumency from books he doesn't need any other book and just takes a seat while sees Hermione with a large smile looking at books and starting to pile them up. Dan takes a seat with him while Emma starts to look at books for what you don't need magic to do like potion-making and history of magic while also learning the theory behind spells.
Harry look surprised. Dan notice and laughed. He says "yes, Hermione is like Emma or in this case it is probably the other way around. We may not have magic or cast spells that don't mean we can read about the theoretical side and help Hermione in every way we can. It may not be much but I guess it is the least but also the only thing we can do especially as she can't show us no matter how much she wants."
Harry looks confused and says "what do you mean she can't show you?"
Dan says "you know Harry. You are not allowed to use magic outside of school until she finished her NEWTs."
Harry says "that is not true."
Dan asks "what do you mean that is not true? That is written in the documents Professor McGonagall showed us. You mean she lied to us?"
Harry says "I don't think it is Professor McGonagall's fault. If the ministry made the documents she give to you it is the ministry's fault. The ministry is led and controlled by bigots and pureblood who think they are better than half-bloods and muggleborns and many despise muggles. I guess Hermione at least told her about someone called Malfoy?"
Dan nods and says "yeah. It is a bully and a pompous arse, while Hermione didn't use those words. In the small part, she wrote about Malfoy you could feel the venom in her words and that he is a pompous arse. It is a wonder the letter didn't catch fire."
Dan thinks to himself 'she only write about Malfoy when Harry was there to help and protect her and every time Malfoy was in her letter Harry ten times in her letter. The ratio between Harry/ Malfoy was every time 10 to 1. Emma is probably right. Also, Harry always wins from Malfoy or at least shows Malfoy up that shows Harry is better.'
Harry asks "sir? Sir?"
Dan shakes his head and asks "yes Harry?"
Harry says "I said that Hermione can show some minor magic as long as no other muggles see it as you know because Hermione is your daughter and has magic. Hermione can show some charms and spells that haven't much effect like making light or making a room light up as there is a spell that light up a lot and we need to learn that for this summer. Also, you can use repair charms like she did last year outside of this very shop."
Dan asks "she did?"
Harry says "yes Mr. Granger. Mr. Weasley was talking with you and Mrs. Granger. He really likes muggles and certain things that muggles have but the wizarding world has not."
Dan smiles and says "ah yes. He is quite nice although he was very excited to meet Emma and me. He asked about a rubber duck, when his daughter told him you arrived safely, he asked if what you said it is to entertain children during bath time. He asked if that was correct what of course it is."
Harry is happy that Mr. Weasley didn't talk with Hermione's parents although he really wants to know about the muggle world until he knew he was safe.
Harry says "anyway, Hermione repaired my glasses and there was no letter about using magic outside of school. As I got a warning from the Improper Use of Magic Office about using a Hover charm although I didn't do it. Anyways, I decided to read up on Decree for the Reasonable Restriction of Underage Sorcery. There are a couple of spells and charms you may use as long as it doesn't expose the magical world and therefore I think you should only do it at home at least that is what I think is better."
"The Trace is what shows if someone under the age of seventeen uses magic. Until you go to Hogwarts and learn to control it you won't get into too many problems and if your parents or one of your parents is magical there are different ways to make sure the child doesn't show a lot of magic. I don't know what as I am already as Hogwarts age and it wasn't explained. The Trace is tied to blood and magic. There are different ways for the magic to be removed and immediately also be removed from the blood even if you aren't seventeen. It is automatically applied and not by any witch or wizard."
"That immediately comes to the second point. Hermione isn't allowed to use all the magic until she is seventeen not until after her NEWTs. Even if she can show all the knows what will probably be a lot, muggles beside you and Mrs. Granger must not see it as that can still bring her into problems."
"The only way you can use major spells while under the age of seventeen is in certain situations such as self-defence in a life-threatening situation. There are some other situations if there is a threat to witches and wizards then Trace's magic should be suspended or will know if the witch or wizard uses it when the witch or wizard needs it. At least that is what the book said."
Dan looks surprised before a smile gets on his face "Hermione can show us some minor spells like making light or repairing things."
Harry says "among some other things yes. I can show Hermione the book in the Hogwarts library. I am sure she would love to show you some things. Also maybe before you leave we can go to her or my room in the Leaky Cauldron and she can show you some things."
Dan says "if Emma and I have time we would love that."
Harry wants to say that is great when Hermione comes back with three books and asks "Daddy, can I have these books?"
Dan says "but sweetie if you buy these I don't know if we have enough Galleons for an animal and what you need for the animal. We promised you that you can get an animal for your third year. We can't pay with pounds and we got a limit on Galleons. The Galleons I gave you are for Hogsmeade not for these books. If you buy the books in Hogsmeade that is your own choice. Also, you want to give uhh…. Ginny a book right so you can't buy that book with that money. You must not forget that you still need to save some Galleons for breakfast, lunch and dinner until you go to school and maybe some sweets when you are on the Hogwarts express."
Hermione pouts but it doesn't seem to work on Mr. Granger this time. However, Harry caves the moment he sees Hermione pout. He stands up and takes a few steps toward Hermione.
Harry suggests "why don't I buy them for you, Hermione? See it as your birthday present."
Hermione smiles which make Harry feel a lot better and she squeals, drop the books and launch herself at Harry and asks "really Harry? Really? Thank you so much, I love the present."
Hedwig immediately flies to the table when where Dan and Harry sat as she sees Hermione launching herself at Harry. Hermione sends Harry to the ground. Hermione keeps on thanking Harry. No one sees that Hermione is getting red. She is getting embarrassment, not because she is basically straddling Harry but because she gets the greatest feeling hugging Harry like she belongs to be hugging Harry or at least touching Harry.
Emma walked towards the sound when Hermione let her books fall. She sees Hermione on Harry while she keeps on thanking him. Emma has a large smile. Emma sees that Dan doesn't like Hermione basically straddling Harry.
Dan thinks 'I like Harry especially if anything Hermione wrote about him is true but why does he need to take my little girl at this young age. They are only 13.'
Emma says "Hermione, you should let Harry up. You can have hurt Harry and Athena. Luckily Hedwig managed to fly off Harry's shoulder."
Hermione gets off Harry but is also blushingly heavily. She is even redder than Susan's crimson red hair.
Hermione says "sorry Harry" before she extends her hand to help him up.
Harry sees that Emma also has some books and says "Mrs. Granger please let me buy that books for you as repayment for paying for my dinner as I eat more than each of you did."
Emma wants to refuse but before she can he has already grabbed her books and put them on the counter before grabbing Hermione's books and also putting them on the counter. The books aren't that pricey and he doesn't need to use his Heir ring to pay. He will tell Hermione when he thinks she is ready or when the necklace should protect her from Dumbledore and Snape's subtly Legilimency or at least make her know something is happening so she would be able to look away if she accidentally looks in the eyes of one of them.
Dan doesn't know if he should be happy or be mad at Harry. On one hand, he made his daughter happy even if it is for her birthday and want to make Hermione happy while on the other hand he bought for his daughter AND his wife. Also, he caved to Hermione within a second it seems. That is just his first thought.
Dan thinks 'maybe I should just be happy that Harry just wants to make Hermione happy so even if there is or will be a relationship between her and Harry, Harry will try his best to make her happy and there is not much more I can ask of Harry beside of course that he loves Hermione. I think I can better try to get used to it or maybe better said to Harry.'
Dan sees that Harry is done buying the books and also sees that Emma is stunned while Hermione is bouncing from happiness.
Dan says "why don't we go to Magical Menagerie as they have more animals than just owls as only Eeylops Owl Emporium only has owls."
Hedwig starts to hoot loudly and frantically before flying to Harry's shoulder and continuing hooting.
The clerk demand that they leave the store immediately as an angry owl can hurt businesses and may even destroy books if he can't control her.
25th August 1993, Diagon Alley, London
Outside Hermione asks "Harry is something wrong with Hedwig?"
Harry manages to calm Hedwig down as he gives her a nice scratch. Hedwig give a few small hoots before giving an affectionate nip on Harry's ear before hooting softly again as Harry didn't stop scratching her.
Harry says "not really, it is just I went to Eeylops Owl Emporium earlier this summer as I needed to have another bag of owl treats with bacon flavour. Hedwig was with me when I entered the store, I don't know what the other owls said but what I gather it was not very nice directed at Hedwig and that I returned her as I such while to lure me away to take one of them as my owl, but I will never do that. Isn't that right, girl?"
Hedwig hoots softly as she bumps her head toward Harry. Athena does the same as Athena feels Harry will also not leave her although he cannot return Athena as he didn't buy her.
Hermione can't help but smile as Harry is very protective of Hedwig. Hermione knows Harry wants to help protect her, but something it seems that Harry being protective and affectionate about Hedwig seems so much better than just the necklace she got even though the necklace has a beautiful emerald stone.
Hermione sees that Athena also likes Harry a lot and Harry is also quite protective of her although Harry hasn't shown it to anyone Hermione can see it clear as day that Harry while talking about Hedwig. He also means Athena.
25th August 1993, Magical Menagerie, Diagon Alley, London
It takes only a couple of minutes as they know they need to hurry as it is a little past 7 PM. Hermione only had three books but it still took Hermione more than an hour to leave Flourish and Blotts although Harry must admit that compared to her normal behaviour in Flourish and Blotts …. or actually any bookshop it is not long at all.
They enter and immediately Harry feels it again. The cat is affectionate and he bents down to pet her. What surprises Harry is that the cat only does it once before he starts to be affectionate to Hermione and even more than to him. Hermione tries the cat to move away but as the cat doesn't she grabs him up so she can walk around as do her parents. Harry decides that he goes to the snakes. Hermione and her parents know he can speak Parseltongue and seem to accept Athena so they probably won't mind him speaking to the snakes as long as he doesn't take another one at least.
Harry does look around sometimes and can't help to smile. Hermione put the cat down but the cat seems to follow her around. She grabs him up four more times to put the cat out of her way but the cat immediately is affectionate again. When she grabbed it twice again she walk it to the other side near the rats but the cat doesn't even glance at the rats and followed Hermione again.
The seventh time Hermione grabs the cat and the cat starts to push its head toward Hermione and starts to purr a bit. Hermione doesn't put the cat down as she knows it will not stop the cat from blocking her way.
After 15 minutes Harry thinks he talked with the snake enough and starts to look if there is something Hedwig or Athena would like. As he understands both he doesn't have to guess what is a relief on one side but on the other side, it is not because they can keep badgering him until he caves. Fortunately for Harry, there is nothing Hedwig or Athena desperately wants or needs.
For another 15 minutes, Hermione walks to Harry and says "I don't see any animal I think I would like to have."
Harry laughs. Hermione narrows her eyes in anger and asks angrily "Harry James Potter, why do you laugh?"
Harry points at her chest. Hermione still thinks he points at her breast and while she thought he glanced at her breast during dinner she didn't call him out on it. Now that he points she wants to call him a git if not worse. Although as soon as the thought to call him a git in her mind enters, she immediately feels bad and hopes that Harry didn't hear her thoughts. She wants to apologise for even thinking about that and hopes he forgives her. She wants Harry to help her, decide what to do and if needed make her do what should be done but not as a slave. She immediately squashes down that idea and feeling. She knows she really needs to talk to Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey as that thought and feeling shouldn't be right. She had felt it before at the end of her second year. She is her own person and she makes her own decision, she doesn't need someone to tell her what to do.
She looks down to see why Harry points at her breast when she sees that it seems she still holds the cat and the cat seems to have fallen asleep against her breasts.
Harry asks "I think you did find an animal you would like. You know the cat does seem to like you a lot, the way he showed you affection by pushing its head to you and not leaving you alone."
Hermione says "maybe you are right. I will ask about the cat."
Harry sees Hermione walk to the register and he can't help but smile. He just can't look away. It is like he is in trance. That never happened before. He knows he stares but he can't look away.
Suddenly he springs up. He screams "AUW THAT HURT."
Hedwig has been pecking his head for half a minute before he felt even the smallest bit of pain it took well over a minute before Harry stopped staring at Hermione and screamed for the pain.
He begs Hedwig to stop. When she finally stops she hoots for a minute and Harry says "I am sorry alright, I don't know why I did it. I mean yes she is but I just couldn't. I don't know why but it was like I had to keep my eye on her for some reason like I want to have her here and not there. I just don't know."
Emma is the only one who hears Harry talking to Hedwig as she is looking at the owls so she and Dan can send Hermione a letter and don't need to have Hedwig come all the way from Hogwarts. Dan is looking at the cat Hermione has with her.
Emma is like her daughter scary smart but even she can barely understand have as she only hears Harry's side as she can't understand Hedwig. The thing she understands is that Harry is very protective of her, he has strong feelings for Hermione and while Emma isn't completely sure it seems Harry finds Hermione attractive. Emma doesn't know if it is merely lust but she doesn't think so.
Emma looks at Hermione and sees that she is talking with the clerk. Emma knows she doesn't have to look at an owl anymore if you look at how Hermione holds the cat is any indication. It isn't like how she hold the cat before. Dan seems to notice and walks to Hermione and the clerk. Emma sees that Dan is ready to grab the Galleons to pay for the cat. Emma does wonder how much the cat would cost. She and Dan have looked last year at how much an animal costs so Emma thinks they should have enough.
The clerk nods and grabs his wand before he waves it. Emma sees that the clerk is saying something or as she can't hear him he probably whispers the spells he uses. Emma sees a couple of things levitating toward the clerk and it looks like things a cat owner should need for a cat, like an animal container, two toys and one bag of treats. She sees Dan pay for everything and Hermione turns around with a large smile and immediately went to Harry.
Hermione says "Harry, meet Crookshanks. He is part cat and part kneazle."
Harry asks "oh hello Crookshanks. Hermione, part-kneazle? What are kneazles?"
Hermione asks "have you not read about them?"
Harry shrugs and says "well, I would if when I open the book for the care of magical creatures without it try to bite or maybe even eat me."
Hermione says "there were other books you could read to prepare for the class Harry."
Hermione looks disapproving at Harry which makes Harry literally hurt. Harry says "I am sorry Hermione, but I have been quite busy. Can you tell me about kneazles?"
Hermione immediately smiles and says "of course, Harry. Kneazles have spotted, speckled or flecked fur, large ears and a lightly plumed tail, akin to that of a lion's. Many see them as small lions, especially muggles. They were thought to have separate breeds, like cats, and therefore each one varied in appearance like Crookshanks is orange. They made excellent pets if they liked the witch or wizard who wanted to own them. Kneazles could interbreed with normal cats and generally had up to eight kittens in every litter. That is why Crookshanks is only a half-kneazle."
"Kneazles are very high level of intelligence, were independent and occasionally aggressive, and had an uncanny ability to detect suspicious and untrustworthy people. It is said when they meet some suspicious or untrustworthy near their owner they would do anything to keep the suspicious and untrustworthy person or animal away even so far as to attack the person or animal. That is also why they could safely guard their owner's home. Because of their aggression towards certain individuals, Kneazles had an XXX classification by the Ministry of Magic, if they were not interbred with another species. Kneazle owners were required to be licensed if they have a full kneazle, not like Crookshanks."
"Kneazle whiskers could be used in wand cores, although they were said to make inferior wands when compared with unicorn hair, phoenix feather and dragon heartstring."
Emma sees that Dan grabs the animal container, two toys and the bag full of treats as Hermione forgot, as she immediately wanted to show Harry Crookshanks.
Harry says "well Crookshanks being a part kneazle explains the mains and such."
Hermione nods and hugs Crookshanks before he went straight for her mother and tells her everything she already told Harry. She also wants her mother to meet Crookshanks.
Dan walks to Hermione and Emma and suggests "why don't we go back to the Leaky Cauldron to get you a room?"
Hermione and Emma nod. Hermione immediately walks to Harry and says "come on Harry. Let's go to the Leaky Cauldron. As I told you I will stay there until September 1st."
Harry nods and follows Hermione out of the story. Immediately behind him are Hermione's parents with Dan still carrying what Hermione should need.
25th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London
They walk in and Harry sees that Andi, Nymfie and Padfoot are still at their table. They seem to be talking. Hermione loses her grip on Crookshanks. Crookshanks lands on his feet and walks toward Harry. He affectionately pusher head against Harry's leg. Hermione bends down to grab him but Crookshanks jumps away before Hermione could grab him.
Crookshanks run towards Andi, Nymfie and Padfoot's table. He rubs her head against Nymfie's leg before doing Andi's.
Hermione is afraid when Crookshanks near the dog. However, the dog doesn't attack Crookshanks. Crookshanks look at the dog and instead of running away, threatening him or attacking him, Crookshanks walks to the dog and pushes her head against the dog's side.
Hermione is shocked. She walks toward the dog slowly, not that she is afraid, she is more afraid if she moves too fast the dog will hurt Crookshanks or Crookshanks notice her and moves away again. It seems Crookshanks like the dog a lot of he keeps pushing his head against the dog affectionately. Hermione is next to the dog and manages to grab Crookshanks. Crookshanks turns in her hands toward Hermione and starts to meow loudly.
Emma says "I think Crookshanks try to tell you something."
Hermione nods and turns to Andi and Nymfie. Hermione says "I am sorry."
Andi says "no worries, dear. The cat was nice and I can see it will be a good companion for a pretty witch, like yourself."
Hermione blushes and decides to focus on the dog. She would never do it if Crookshanks didn't seem to like the dog.
She pets the dog and he stands up to get more pets. Harry sees Padfoot's tail move and likes the pet Hermione gives him. He can just barely control laughing as he imagines Hermione petting Sirius as Padfoot is Sirius of course.
Hermione asks "what is the dog's name?"
Andi says "Padfoot when he is a good boy otherwise we call him a mutt."
Padfoot whines but that stop when Hermione continues to pet him. She says "you are a good boy aren't you, yes you are."
Harry manages to say "excuse me when I get Athena and Hedwig to my room."
Emma and Dan nod while Hermione keeps petting and praising Padfoot. Harry sees that as he walks past that Crookshanks has managed to jump to the able so Hermione can use both of her hands to pet Padfoot.
Harry sees Nymfie's hair change colour rapidly before it is her pink hair again. Andi has a gentle smile, a gentle indifferent smile on her face.
25th August 1993, Harry's room, Leaky Cauldron, London
He walks into his room. Hedwig immediately flies to her perch and Athena immediately leaves his arm to fly in front of the fireplace. He sits on his bed. He can't suppress it anymore and start to laugh the hardest he ever did. He falls back on his bed because of his laugh.
It takes him a couple of minutes to stop and as he thinks about it again he can't suppress laughing again. He gets red from all the laughing. He finally stops as he needs air to breathe. it takes a few minutes before he is alright again and will not suddenly laugh thinking about Hermione petting his godfather.
He sits up and says "Hedwig, Athena I will go downstairs and I will see you in a bit."
Hedwig hoots something before closing her eyes. Harry sis it to Athena and Athena nods. Harry sis that he will ask Tom to light the fireplace when he comes back. Athena is happy with that and lies her head down.
25th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London
When Harry comes back Hermione, Dan and Emma were drinking something. Andi and Nymfie were still there. However, when Harry sits with Hermione, Dan and Emma they stand up and leave through the muggle side.
Hermione asks "you took quite a long time Harry. Did something happen?"
Harry says "no, no nothing like that. I just wanted to make sure Hedwig and Athena were alright before I came back here. Hedwig wanted some owl treats and I gave Athena a little bit of meat."
Hermione seems to accept it and pets Crookshanks that lie on her lap and took a sip of her drink. They offer Harry a drink but he refuses although he does mention he may like a little food.
When Dan is done he says "honey, I am going to get your trunk from the car. If you and your mother talk to Tom for a room maybe Harry you can help me with your trunk and bag?"
Harry nods and Hermione and Emma walk to the bar Hermione seems reluctant as she doesn't want her father to scare Harry, but as Harry agreed without hesitating she hopes it will be alright.
Dan stands up and asks "can you help me before getting a little bit of food if you don't mind?"
Harry also stands up and says "sure, after we got Hermione's trunk and bag and take it to her room I can ask Tom for a snack."
Dan smiles and nods and starts to let him to the muggle entrance.
25th August 1993, Muggle side, just outside of Leaky Cauldron, London
The car is a little bit down the road. When they walk towards it Dan says "listen, Harry, I like you, especially as what Hermione said about you seems to be right. However, I still mean what I said. If you hurt Hermione in any way or the necklace I won't care if you like you or if you are the strongest wizard that ever walked the earth I will find you and kill you."
Harry looks at Dan but to Dan's surprise, Harry doesn't look scared. Harry simply says "if I hurt Hermione in any way I think you can only get pieces of me as you will be the third in line. First, it will be me, then Hermione and finally you. If needed I will give my life to make sure Hermione is not hurt."
Harry barely managed to keep himself from saying like last school year when she was hurt by the basilisk as Harry thinks she hasn't told her parents.
Dan stares into his eyes. To his own amazement, Dan doesn't see anything but the truth in his eyes. Dan says "I believe you Harry and that is also what scares me. Hermione cares a lot about you and if you get hurt to save her or help her, or even worse get killed she would be crushed…."
Harry interrupts Dan as he says "I will be too if something happens to her, sir. Hermione is my best friend."
Harry knows he speaks the truth as to when Hermione was petrified he missed her and blamed himself for her getting petrified. Luckily before he could feel crushed Professor McGonagall said that she would recover as Professor Sprout has mandrakes, what he knows, that is needed to make the potion to undo Hermione and the others from being petrified. Madam Pomfrey agreed as to that she would make sure that it would be brewed correctly and that all the victims would recover including Mr. Filch's cat, Mrs. Norris.
Dan knows Harry sees Hermione as his best friend, but he is afraid Hermione sees Harry as more even though she doesn't see it yet. Emma said that she does even after Hermione denied it. Hermione is smart but she is still a teenage girl. When they asked Hermione got a slight blush that can mean two things. One is she is embarrassed by her parents asking her about a boy she likes or second she blushes as she does have feelings for Harry and tries to deny it.
Emma told him that she thinks Hermione is not sure about her feelings and may feel insecure about herself. Her youth didn't help with her insecurity as she was made fun of a lot. Harry seems to help her if someone calls her names in Hogwarts and both Emma and Dan are grateful for that and aren't surprised if Hermione has feelings for Harry even if it is only because of that.
Emma told Dan she understand that Hermione may feel insecure. Even though Hermione isn't a late bloomer, most older girls are more developed that can attract boys and Harry is, after all, a boy and famous at that although Hermione doesn't care about that.
Dan opens the car trunk to get Hermione's trunk and gives Harry Hermione's bag. Harry drops the bag as it is very heavy. Dan laughs and says "yeah, it is quite heavy. As I understand there are some books in there."
Harry says "I had no doubt there would be it feels like she has all seven years of all the classes have in it."
Dan says "if it would fit I had no doubt. Now the trunk."
Dan manages to get the trunk out of the car trunk but he needs a lot of power to gently put the trunk on the ground before he easily closes the car trunk. Dan grabs the trunk and carries it. Harry grabs Hermione's bag and as it is a backpack he can put it on his back.
Harry put it on and immediately feels his back as it is very heavy. They walk back and when they are almost at the Leaky Cauldron Dan says "Harry I need you to grab my wrist or I won't be able to enter or even see the Leaky Cauldron."
Harry nod and they walk in. They haven't seen someone looking at them the whole time. The one that was watching them thinks 'it is time for her.'
He taps something on his chest and a second later someone apparates in. The person says "you're on now. The boss said full surveillance."
The other nods, changes and walks inside the Leaky Cauldron.
25th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London
When Dan and Harry walk inside Emma and Hermione are already waiting near the stairs. Hermione has Crookshanks in her arms while Emma has the animal container with the toys and treats inside. When they reach them Emma and Hermione walk upstairs. Hermione is in front and Harry can see that she has a key in her hands.
25th August 1993, Hermione's room, Leaky Cauldron, London
Harry already knows which room Hermione should have and just like he knew Hermione opens room number 15. When they enter Hermione lets go of Crookshanks while her mother put the animal container, toys and treats on the desk. Crookshanks immediately starts to investigate the room. Harry puts her bag with a large sound on the desk almost like it fell on the desk beside the animal container. Dan tries to gently put her trunk at the end of her bed, but he also doesn't manage. He put the trunk down with a large sound like it fell out of his hands.
Dan sits down on her bed and says "sweetie, you take many, too many things."
Hermione blushingly says "daddy, don't call me that and what if I need books from my first two years as reference or it would be easier to look them up in my older books."
Hermione says "oh yes, Harry I have your notes in my trunk I will give them back to you later."
Emma says "oh yes, I wanted to ask Hermione why you have Harry's notes and not your own?"
Hermione says "oh …. well, I was a bit under the weather for a bit, nothing serious thought and after I was better I tried to make notes but Ronald burned them after he made them wet as he needed them. He wanted to dry them but put them over the fire too long."
Emma says "oh, I understand. I can understand that you didn't have time for the exams and anything. That is nice of you Harry to lend her your notes."
Harry knew it Hermione didn't tell them about the Basilisk. He does wonder how Hermione responds if she knew Athena is the basilisk and if her parents knew about the basilisk attack and that the basilisk is here although Athena listens to her.
Harry smiles and says "it is no problem."
Hermione says "I need some milk."
Without waiting for anything Hermione leaves the room.
Emma says "Harry, do you know why she wants milk?"
Harry says "I don't know. Why?"
Dan says "because she drinks a lot of milk at home and sometimes she wanted cream with the weirdest combinations even weirder than some of Emma's when she was pregnant with Hermione although it wasn't with cream."
"Anyway, Hermione never liked milk and cream or at least not this much. Sure she drank milk once a day, sometimes only thrice a week but now she wanted it at least three times a day some days she wanted even more and if we didn't have any milk or cream she got really mad although she apologized for most of the time immediately after. However, she never got mad before if she wanted something and we didn't have any at that time."
It didn't take long before Hermione come back with a very large glass of milk although the glass is already half empty.
Dan asks "how much did the glass cost, Hermione?"
Hermione says "I don't know. I wanted to pay, but Tom said that it will be put on the room number and need to pay after breakfast on September 1st."
Emma says "look at the time. Hermione, dear your father and I need to leave soon if we want to get any sleep before the flight tomorrow morning. Don't forget to look at your door. Harry, dear why don't we walk you to your room and then we go."
Harry says "that is very nice Mrs. Granger, but that isn't needed I am right next door. I have room 14. Also, I would go downstairs first I guess as I like a bit of food."
Emma says "it is nice to know you are close together."
Dan says "yes, it is time now, we need to go. We need to drive back, pack the last things and need to be early at the airport."
Emma gives Hermione a big hug as does Dan. To Harry's surprise, Emma gives him also a big hug. Harry tenses up and Emma notice but decides to not mention it. Dan shakes Harry's hand and lays his hand on his shoulder. Harry recoils a bit but not enough that Hermione seems to notice although Emma and Dan do.
Harry says "well, Hermione. It has been a busy day. I will go get some food before I go to my room to go to sleep. Good night."
Hermione gives Harry a big hug, much bigger than Emma's and that was already a big one. Emma notices Harry doesn't tense up when Hermione does it. She knows she needs to think about what this means although she has the feeling Hermione has done it before. Also that Harry has trouble with adults and that worries her a lot. Dan knows she is thinking of something but decides to push her out of the door. Harry follows them and goes with them downstairs. They walk him down. They wait until he got his food and heads upstairs with Tom before they leave the Leaky Cauldron and head home which would take an hour at least although it is probably a little busy on the road.
Downstairs one person see them leave and knows Hermione is in their room and Harry would be soon.
Hermione changes to bed and is happy it seems her parents like Harry a lot and to her own surprise, she didn't doubt it for one second her parents would like Harry. When she lies in her bed Crookshanks climbs on the bed and gives her a few affectionate bumps on his head to her shoulder. Hermione gives Crookshanks a pet on his neck and Crookshanks purrs before he walks down to the foot end of the bed and lies down to also get to sleep.
In Harry's room, after Tom lit the fire he also is getting ready for bed but first, he eats. He notices that he hasn't shown Hermione his own necklace. He doesn't know if Hermione noticed it or not, although maybe she forgot when he showed them, Athena, as she is apparently in her muggle form very venomous as Hermione doesn't know it is the basilisk and as venom, the venom Athena has still has the basilisk's venom which is much more venomous than the venom her muggle species normally has.
Let's end here for now. We see Andy and Sirius talk about House Black in the next chapter. Also, we see the Weasleys arriving back in England, Arthur's talk with Amelia and arriving at the Leaky Cauldron. More if words allow it.
Please read and review. PMs are appreciated to both/ either Anubis the god king or me (coco29).