Chapter 15

Homecoming

Wednesday, 25 September 1996

Sergeant Tonks had worked with the administration for the class to have a pass for the day. Getting approval was actually far easier than she had thought. Most every teach was sympathetic. The squad was meeting after breakfast, most dressed in black. Harry was more quiet than normal. Still he was there with his black suit and red tie on, even wearing his Ministry Pin. He floated around a bit, playing the supportive role. Mostly by giving hand shakes and nods. Ginny was almost concerned. So much so, she went to Ron and Hermione.

"Hey guys, to your knowledge, were Harry and Hannah really close or something?"

The Sixth years exchanged looks. "Na, no more than anyone else in the D. A." Ron replied.

Hermione agreed. "Agreed, no issues with Hannah but nothing extremely close. Frankly, I think Harry is being more supportive of Neville. Those two have had a friendship from similar pas- " Hermione stopped and covered her mouth with both hands in gasp as realized. "Where is Hannah from?"

Ron registered it too then. "Bloody hell."

"What, what am I missing?" Ginny asked.

"It's not the people," Hemione said, "It's the place. Abbotts are the Masters of Godric's Hollow."

Ginny searched her memory but in the panic not registering anything. "I know that name. Why do I know that name?"

As gently as he'd ever said anything before, Ron explained. "Sis, that's where Harry's parents died."

Ginny turned with the other two to watch Harry trying to be the supportive lead. Hermione summarized. "Halloween, fifteen years ago. To my knowledge he's never even visited."

"Doubt the Dursleys would let 'em."

"So Harry's first visit back, will be for a friend's funeral?" Ginny surmised.

"Yea," Ron answered.

Ginny got angry. At fate, at the powers that be, at whatever the hell in the cosmos decided Harry could be the emotional punching bag of the world. She squared her jaw and she planned. She snapped around to the others. "Hermione, reminder, you always have had and especially today, do have full hugging permission." Hermione nodded, slightly surprised at Ginny's command presence. "Ronald, you are absolutely not allowed to be anything short of your best mate's best mate today." Ron nodded.

Orders issued, Ginny led them to the somber Harry. "Hey guys." he greeted quietly, only to be pushed back slightly with the force of Ginny's hug to his center mass, then Hermione coming on to his right side wrapping around shoulders.

Ron stood by and said, "Mate, you could have told us."

A confused Harry replied. "You were all there when Neville-"

"Not about Hannah's mum." Hermoine corrected.

"Today we're going to Godric's Hollow!" she cried into Harry's chest.

"Oh," Harry said, seeming to leave it at that, and shrugged.

"Oh?" Hermione repeated. "Is that all?"

"No, it's not," Ginny said defiantly. Taking Harry's hand and leading him to a corner, but deliberately waving the other two on. "You are NOT doing this Harry. You've come too far for to start emotionally shutting down aga-"

Harry held his hand up in protest and defense. "Fair observation, but that's - that's not what's going on here." He reached out to hold Ginny's face and rub her cheeks. "Though the sentiment is greatly appreciated."

Hermione came along beside him. "I'm with Ginny on this. Talk to us then."

"Today is not about me. It's about Hannah. To a lesser extent, Neville. But to a small degree it's about the D.A. / A.C.T."

"I don't get your meaning." Hermione asked.

Ron slipped and arm around her. "I do, comradery, leadership."

Harry nodded. "I feel bad we missed this for Susan, so this is the first death of someone close to that the team has had." Harry paused and looked around to see how badly they may be listened to. Fortunately, the squad was used to the four of them talking privately. "Now, Tonks is the sergeant, and we're better for it. But I think we all agree most of the team still looks to me for a lot?" Nods from both ladies. "Let's be honest. It won't be the last." Harry swallowed hard. " I am trying to set an example. Keep calm and carry on. Stiff upper lip and all that. Because that's my job." He looked down at Ginny. "You, specifically, wanted Master Potter. This is Master Potter. The Boy-Who-Lived, has cried, wailed, and ran. Master Potter is trying very hard to stand and stay the course."

"Noble bastard," Ginny and Hermione said separately but at the same time. Ron nodded in understanding.

Harry continued. "Now that doesn't mean I'm not having a very shite day right now. I'm just … compartmentalizing. So for the first time in a long while I think I will do the selfish thing and would like to ask for you three to stick close tod-"

"You don't even have a choice on that, mate. Ginny's already like ordering us today. Which is kind of odd because I'm fuzzy on how she outranks me all of a sudden." Ron smiled to lighten the mood.

"Fight me." a teary, but now smiling Ginny replied.

"Later today, I'm sure I will have one hell of a good cry, but I'd like to try to get through the funeral first."

They were rejoining the gathering squad, when Susan approached with a puzzled look on her face. "Harry, Daphne Greengrass is here… for you?"

The three of them looked to Harry, who tapped to his signet ring. "Duty calls. Be back in a bit." Then he stopped himself. "Thank you all, very, very much." He pressed a kiss into Ginny's hair and took a deep breath of the smell of her hair.0

Susan led the way to the main door, when Daphne stood respectfully, wearing conservative black dress, her straight blonde hair combed simply behind her. "I promise not to be too long, but may we speak… in private… please?"

"Susan let Tonks know when she gets here. My understanding is she's coordinating for transportation." Susan nodded. "Follow me," he told Daphne. He led her down the hall and up the first spiral staircase to one of the ancient lookout station open to the Scottish morning.

Daphne took a moment to look out to the countryside. "This is rather pretty Harry, thank you."

"I was not aware you were close to Hannah's family."

"Realistically, I am not, no more than any other average student, which is why I asked to speak with you."

"Alright, I'm willing to listen."

"Respectfully, Harry, You are talked about at this school."

"Understatement," he agreed with a grin.

"So you can accept that I've heard of more than one disagreement you've had with Cormac McLaggen?"

Harry raised an eyebrow, but nodded his head. "Yes."

Daphne raised a hand. "I truly don't care about him either. But I bring him up as an example that individuals in their house do not necessarily embody or support all of their house values."

Harry nodded, "Point taken."

"Thank you. Then perhaps you will believe me when I say especially in the last month I have found it particularly… distasteful in the house of Slytherin."

Harry nodded and gave her an accepting look. "I am willing to believe that Daphne. I try to judge people by their individual actions. I've never even heard of anything from you that would offend me."

"Thank you, Harry. So much of this damned school sees nothing but house colors."

Harry took a breath, exhaled loudly. "Truthfully Daphne, a few years ago, I know for a fact I very easily could have been sorted into Slytherin."

Daphne looked over to Harry. Let out a sly smile. "I could easily see you in green, Harry." She paused for a moment, then clarified. "That was a compliment."

"Taken as such," Harry responded with a smile.

"Thank you. You would be far more preferable to so many of the inhabitants of my house.

"First you should know, you're little Battle of Diagon Alley, you pissed off a lot of people, Harry Potter."

He shrugged and grinned. "Occupational hazard."

Daphne smiled. "Snape is right, you are arrogant… but he's also wrong, you can pull it off." She took a breath and looked out beyond the horizon. "As news of the war comes in, do you know how some of them react?"

Harry chose silence, fairly certain she needed to voice this.

"They cheer. Those sodding bastards openly cheer for the Eaters. In front of Astoria and I. Granted not all the house, but at least a third. They see this as the way to support the Pure-Blood. I have had to excuse myself rather than wretch in front of them on more than one occasion."

"Not a Purist?"

Daphne looked down briefly then looked fiercely at Harry. "We are both nobility, let us not insult each other with lies. Previously, yes, I admit I felt that was important…. Then a particular half blood and practically sworn enemy to Slytherin, led a ragtag team of pures, halves, and mud bloods saving my life after the Eaters killed my mother. Then you went on to force Lestrange herself to retreat. In the last month, I have had to reconsider many positions. Even when I did support purity, I only supported that in lines of marriage or … procreation. Never murder. I see no honor in that."

"Why this funeral?"

"Because… it is right. I know at least in part what she is going through. Her mother never stepped foot into battle, she did nothing to warrant that. I have thought much about this last month and I do not have the constitution to stand among the Eaters in my house. But still I am nobility, so where I stand, we stand, matters. You are a single man and you already have made House Potter a respectable name. I will not allow House Greengrass to be tied to the heinous act of the Death Eaters. So I will stand and pay respects as it seems like the decent thing to do. And though much of the school may only see my colors, unlike much of my house, I still have my soul."

"But I am no fool Harry, I am well aware that is your team, your… extended house there. So I ask your blessing, to allow me to show honor, both to House Abbott and from House Greengrass."

Harry thought for a moment. "Officially, the Abbott's will have final say, but so long as you're doing what you say you are, and I have no reason to believe otherwise, I doubt they will notice, much less object. You have my blessing, Daphne."

"Thank you, Harry."

Harry led them back down to the Training Hall where it seemed the majority had already gathered. Sgt. Tonks nodded to him as he entered. He specifically gestured to Daphne and nodded in approval. Tonks gave a second nod.

Daphne was taken aback."That is all?"

"How belabored do we need to be to inform my commanding officer of an additional guest? Until you give me reason to believe otherwise, I will trust you to your word."

Daphne nodded. The pair made their way back to Harry's group, which had gained Susan and Neville. "Lady Greengrass would also like to pay respects today." The group looked to Neville.

Neville looked around. "I've no issue. Today it looks like we're all wearing black."

"Thank you, Master Longbottom."

"Right, well, the Sergeant issued me one of the Portkeys and told me to remind you to be back before lights out. Ministry pin, apparate or floo to Hogsmeade, doesn't really care."

"That sounds like her." Harry nodded.

Neville pulled out what looked like an invitation card from his suit's breast pocket. Harry briefly read the print on. It was the funeral announcement. And it made perfect sense they used those as Portkeys. "I'll cast," Neville said,"but everyone circle up and pinch onto the card.

A growing sensation of dread welled up in Harry pinched a card with his right hand. He firmed up his poker face as he braced for the trip. Mercifully, Ginny's arm slipped around his waist as she took the spot next to him.

A whirlwind of magic later and the stone of the hall was replaced grass on it's last days color with mulit colored leaves all around beneath their feet. It bright enough that Harry's glasses immediately shaded. That reminded Hermione to take out her glasses which tinted quickly too.

They hand landed in the grass by the walkway in front of a little church with stained glass windows. The sign in front labeled it 'St Jerome's Church'. There was a large stained-glass window in the front with a depiction of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus over the door.

"I thank you for your courtesy." Daphne nodded. "I will let you have your day." She said with nods Neville, Harry, and even Susan. "I'll make my own way back."

When she got out of earshot, Hermione asked the obvious question. "New house alliance?" she asked concerned.

"No, nothing like that. No one worry, 90% just being decent, maybe 10% not pissing off a house noble. She is on a similar road the three of us have walked. Despite the risks of the house she's in I can't bring myself to be a bastard." Harry explained.

With a sigh, Neville returned to the day's focus. "If you all will excuse me, Hannah did reserve my shoulder for the day."

"Give her our best, Nev." Ginny reminded.

With heavy breath Harry steeled himself. "Alright let's help Tonks coordinate the team.

Being the Lady of the village, and from all conversation a decently well liked one at that, seemingly all of Godric's Hollow seemed to assemble as well as assorted guests from further. The crowd was large enough that the church had set up service outside with lines of chairs beneath the autumn colors on the oaks preparing for their annual slumber. The oranges and and yellow seemed to soothe the black of the crowd.

Three rows of chairs was reserved for the Tonks at the front left, Harry took second from the right largely because he had Ginny on his right arm, Hermione holding on Harry's left and resting her head on on Ron's shoulder, then Ron's right arm around Hermione's shoulders and hand resting on Harry's shoulder. As service continued, Ron was surprised when a rather stoic Susan reached for his left hand. "Just… please, Ron."

"No worries, Sue. No problem." He replied welcomingly with a nod. This is one thing that he understood and agreed with Harry and Tonks with. The squad takes care of its own.

Harry sat in determination. Godric's Hollow, what in another reality would have been his hometown. What appeared to be a lovely village with decent people, instead of what he experienced. He'd never really considered coming back here. In truth he rarely thought of the place, short of when he had to think of the Night. He meant what he said though. Hanna was part of the team. The war was just starting, there would be losses, and if fate was going to put him in a leadership role he was going to do his best. They deserved it. Frankly they deserved more.

Ginny, thank Merlin for Ginny. She had grabbed his right hand, interlaced their fingers, and turned sideways essentially hugging his arm and leaning her head on his shoulder. He was smart enough to know age was a major reason, dumb kids and such, but how he hadn't seen her as she was earlier, he didn't know. Last year she had grown to be one of his most loyal friends and the last three months, a bedrock to him. It was she who put out Rule 4: The Man Becoming, and damned to hell if he wasn't trying to be good enough for her.

Lost in thoughts of time past and present Harry didn't catch every word said, but Vicar Swain soon preached something that seem to strike a cord to him:

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:

a time to be born, and a time to die;

a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;

a time to kill, and a time to heal;

a time to break down, and a time to build up;

a time to weep, and a time to laugh;

a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;

a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

a time to seek, and a time to lose;

a time to keep, and a time to throw away;

a time to tear, and a time to sew;

a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

a time to love, and a time to hate;

a time for war, and a time for peace.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.

Harry had never been a church attender, that would have required the Dursley to be decent. But that speech seemed to ring true. He knew he had experienced a fair share of half the list. He'd like to think he'd turned the corner to pursue the second half.

At the end of the services the crowd started to make a line to the family Hannah, her father Winston and some extended family. Obviously, most people were giving traditional handshakes, a brief hug, a few brief words and moving ong. Harry was wondering if this was going to be a shake or hug situation.

Hannah didn't give him a chance. She immediately leapt up to hug him with both arms around his neck, with force enough he had to take a step back to keep his balance. "Thank you, Harry!"

"Er, ah, you're welcome?" he replied lightly, hugging back looking over her shoulder at both Master Abbott and Neville.

"For the team, mate." Neville explained with a nod. "She never expected the entire team for her mum."

Hannah pulled away sheepishly nodding to confirm. "Mum loved what you did with us. Literally not giving a damn about blood or houses. She thought that was brilliant."

Harry took both of her hands. "Hannah, you're part of the team. I wish I'd had the honor of knowing your mum. But I sure as hell appreciate her daughter."

"Master Potter," her father greeted. He was in his mid fifties with full head of hair, but now white, as was his goatee. In black dress robes, He looked as if he had a muscular frame, but years of management, oversight work, and home cooking had added pounds to his belly.

"Master Abbott," Harry greeted with a handshake and not.

"Master Potter, I wish we met under better circumstances. But still I welcome you back to Godric's Hollow.

"Agreed sir, and thank you."

"If I may impose, I would like to meet and speak with you, sir. From Hannah I am well aware of the schedule Hogwarts keeps. If you have the day, I would welcome you and your colleagues for tea?" A look in the man's eye showed earnestness and seriousness.

Merlin, this day would never end. He had hoped after the funeral he'd just head back to Hogwarts and either cry or run or exercise his feelings. To make matters worse, both Hannah and Neville were nodding with approval.

"You have the harder day, sir. If you'd like me, sure."

"Say 4 o'clock, bring your associates."

They bid them bye and started back to a less populated part of the wood, unfortunately it was also close to the graveyard. Susan began, "Harry, will you please excuse me if I have hit my wall? It's been less than 3 months for me."

"Of course Sue, head back, whatever you need to get better." he offered his hand.

Sue batted it away. "You're a good man, Harry. Thank you." she said with a hug. She hugged the girls next. Then hugged Ron, "Thank you,... I just…"

"Funerals, they suck. No worries, Sue."

"Now if you excuse me, I'm going to go find a floo and a pub… and maybe not that order."

Harry started, "You all-"

He couldn't even finish the sentence before both Ginny and Ron slapped the back of his head. "Not even an option today, mate." Ron explained.

The three of them just circled Harry. Gin slipped into a full hug and said, "You're not allowed to say, 'fine', but how are you?"

She knew so well, she did get a slight grin. "Rough, shaky, still standing." Harry tried to move his gaze from the rows of tombstones but it felt as if some invisible force held his gaze forward.

Hermione started softly. "Harry, do you have any memory of your parent's funeral?"

Harry sniffled and swallowed hard. "Rather certain I never attended. That would have required the Dursleys to have been decent."

"And you never even visited?"

Harry shook his head. "Like I said."

"Well, it's high time then. I'll go find them," Ron said as stepped forward.

Harry was going to protest, but his own body choked it back. Once he accepted he was able to call out, "Ron!" His mate stopped to look at him. "Their names-"

"James and Lily Potter, October 31, 1981" he replied instantly, to a few surprised faces. "Six years. I may not be the best student, but do remember what's important."

With a rare sign of sibling pride, Ginny whispered, "That's my brother."

While Ron searched Ginny gave Harry the option. "Do you want to do this alone?"

Harry released a nervous laugh. "No way in hell. If you left I am rather certain I would just be curling up like a baby and crying."

"Hey," Hermione said with a gentle backrub. "There wouldn't be any wrong with that."

"And I was already there with you," Ginny reminded as she squeezed around his chest.

"Thank you both, and Ron too. Merlin, especially Ron."

A few minutes later, Ron returned, oddly with a small smile. Pointing a thumb over his shoulder he announced, "Found 'em… and Harry, for what it's worth they haven't been forgotten." The curiosity gave Harry extra strength. Who else would care and how would Ron know? The other three followed Ron down a aisle, There standing about two feet tall by four feet across of thick white marble was carved:

JAMES POTTER

BORN 30 JANUARY 1960

DIED 31 OCTOBER 1981

LILY POTTER

BORN 27 MARCH 1960

DIED 31 OCTOBER 1981

The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.

Harry took a knee to read the words slowly. He was here now, he saw no point in rushing or running. He read the last line out loud. "Isn't that a Death Eater concept?"

"We're in a church graveyard Harry, it means belief in life after death." Hermione clarified, as Ron slipped behind her hugging.

Ginny knelt beside Harry and kept a hand on his shoulder. "Do… you… believe in anything after, Harry?" He could tell from her tone of voice she was afraid to ask. And Ginny wasn't afraid of damn near anything, except hurting him.

He placed his hand on top of Ginny's just to show no harm had been done. "That is a very fair question." Harry closed his eyes and bowed his head. He had reached his breaking point. And the tears started to flow down his cheek and onto the autumn leaves and grass below. He could still speak and talk though. "I don't know if I believe in god. If there is, I know I'd like to have a word with them." He took another breath as he sorted his thoughts. "We have ghosts and talking paintings. And to me even magic proves there's more than brain and body… so ya, I believe there's something beyond. But beyond that… I don't have a clue."

"Talk to them." Ginny encouraged.

"Gin, I'm smart enough to know the important parts of them… they're not here."

Ginny looked up to him, again with the warmest hot chocolate colored eyes. Her lips had the most caring smile and now tears came down her cheeks. In the sweetest and kindest voice she replied, "Bullshit." She succeeded in getting a grin out of him, which was all she was looking for. "How many damn times do you have to be reminded you have your mother's eyes and your father's face before you realize you always carry them here." she said, pressing her hand over his heart.

"Ginny's right mate. And if anyone deserves a chat with their parents, it's you."

"'I'd feel like … a crazy person."

"Harry," Hermione clarified. "You have slain monsters, and faced villains most of your life. A graveside confession would be so very normal."

Fate really seemed to want him today. Harry took a breath. "Hi Mum, Dad… It's been a bit. Not my fault… not yours either, I do understand that. War sucks and I get that. I won't lie, it's been rough."

"The last three months it got better though. I moved out. The two redheads here, their family kinda adopted me. They let me borrow their parents. Molly's a good cook. Arthur's taught me a lot. They have a ton of brothers."

"Oi," Ron objected, bringing a grin to them all, "Only five."

"Feels like a dozen sometimes." Ginny added, lightening the mood.

Harry shook his head in the ridiculousness of this. "The bloke is Ron, been keeping me smiling for six years. The brunette is Hermione. She's been the smart one keeping me alive and passing my classes."

"My pleasure," she replied with a nod.

Looking to his right. "This is Ginny. I love her. Somehow I've conned her into being sweet on me."

Ginny grinned. "Your son's a fine man, who I'm lucky to have, the last great noble gentleman."

"Apparently Dad… I'm a charmer like you?"

"Yes!" both ladies yelled with smiles to agree.

"Mum, everyone… and I mean everyone, says I have your eyes."

He took a breath to draw to a close. "The war is back. I'm in it this time. No real choice about that. But that means the bloody bastard that did this to us… I'm putting him in the ground…. I swear. I love you guys. I miss you guys. And given how insane my life is … I think I'm just going to say, I'll see you around."

Harry rose and took a deep breath. "Thank you all. I never realized I needed that."

"How do you feel?" Ginny asked again, returning to hugging his torso.

Harry took a moment. "Better? Lighter?"

"Good." She replied with a squeeze.

After a moment Harry remembered. "Ron, you said you could tell they hadn't been forgotten?"

"Check the coins, mate." Ron nodded to the tombstone.

Harry and all of them looked back and did see several coins, most knuts, but a few sickles. There were a few piles but many laying around the ground like they had fallen.

"I'm not even aware of this, Ron. Please?" Hermione asked.

"Started as a soldier's tradition, from the Yanks, I think. Then it crossed the pond. Wizard world started to pick it up with the last war. Leave a knut on the headstone to show you visited. Basically, do exactly this to show the next visitor the fallen hadn't not been forgotten. Thoughts, prayers, and well wishes."

Harry took a look around the headstone, dozens of knuts. But as he looked around, he also saw seven silver coins lined neatly by the base. "Ron, sickles?"

"Not just visited then. They would have served and fought alongside your parents."

"Fought alongside?" Harry thought aloud, "That would have to have been the original Order of the Phoenix." Reflexively Harry looked around. "I wonder who?"

"Harry, " Hermione asked hesitantly, "Would… would you be offended if we left coins for us?"

Harry smiled a bit. "No.. not in the slightest. I'd be honored in fact."

The other three placed their knuts on the headstone as Harry put his back down to grab one for himself.

"Harry," Ron said with a hand on his shoulder. "You'd be a galleon… you were with them at the end."

"Right, thanks." Harry grabbed a galleon. He wasn't sure where the idea came from, but as the only one who was with them at the end, he didn't want his coin falling to the ground. "Screw the trace, " he muttered as he drew his wand. He remembered some of McGonagall transfiguration lessons to liquify a small patch of the headstone. He held the galleon half in it, like dunking a cookie in milk. Then dispelled the charm solidifying the stone around the coin. He pulled to test it. It was in there firmly. Harry looked around expectantly waiting for aurors.

Ron recognized the look. "Think they have bigger problems than you today."

Hermione nodded. "Especially in a graveyard at a known funeral."

Seeing the coin now in place, an idea came to Ginny. "Harry, do you trust me?" she asked gently.

"Absolutely," he responded without hesitation.

Ginny stepped forward and placed her hand and wand on the galleon Harry hand just fused to the stone. Silently, but still to the spirits she felt would hear she thought:

Mr. and Mrs. Potter,

My name is Ginevra Weasley.

I never had the pleasure of meeting you.

But I have been honored to love, and be loved, by your son.

He is quite frankly the most fantastic person I've ever met.

You would be proud.

As Merlin, God, Fate, or whatever, as my witness,

He will never be alone again.

I swear.

She let a single tear fall then reached her empty hand back. While her wand she pointed to the galleon. "Harry." she asked. He took her and held firm.

"Flamma Jugis," Ginny commanded. He could feel a surge of Ginny's magic flow from her hand to his chest. It felt hot, but without pain. Before he could even open his mouth, the coin itself erupted in fire six inches tall. Ginny turned and gently rubbed Harry's cheek. "Continual Flame, that fire will never go out as long as you are alive."

It was perfect, an utterly perfect gesture. "Thank you." Harry squeaked out as another round of tears came. He didn't have anything more to say. It was just the four of them. He pulled Ginny close and held her tight, who did the same to him. Ron and Hermione fell in on the sides in a group hug around Harry.

Sometime later, one was watching the time, Harry plateaued to a functional normal. "We've got time to kill. I think Susan may have had the right idea. Let's hit town properly."

They stepped past the kissing gate and took their first look at the town square. The center of it was anchored with an obelisk covered in names. Once they reached the cobblestone, it transformed.

"Harry, look!" Hermione gestured.

Now it was a statue of three people: a man with untidy hair and glasses, a woman with long hair and a kind, pretty face, and a baby boy sitting in his mother's arms. Harry drew closer, gazing up into his parents' faces. He had never imagined that there would be a statue... How strange it was to see himself represented in stone, especially as a happy baby.

Ginny smiled, "You were a cute baby."

"What every man wants to hear from his girl." he said surly.

While his friend took in the sight, Harry reminded. "Guys I'd really rather not put much time right next to a statue of my father who everyone says looks like. I can't handle a Boy-Who-Lived crowd right now."

They nodded as they continued down the lane, till at the end of the row they came to a cottage that was not like the others. Merlin, fate had him in his crosshairs today. The hedge had grown wild over the last decade. The lower half of the cottage seemed structurally sound. The right side top floor had been blown apart. autumn colored ivy wrapped around the cottage holding it very similar to how Ginny had been hugging Harry. He approached the gate at the edge of the walk and something rose from the tangle of nettles, weeds and leaves. It was a wooden sign with gold letters.

On this spot, on the night or 31 October 1981,

Lily and James Potter lost their lives.

Their son, Harry, remains the only wizard

Ever to have survived the Killing Curse.

This house, invisible to Muggles, has been left

In it ruined state as a monument to the Potters

And as a reminder of the violence

that tore apart their family.

And all around those nicely professionally crafted letters, hand scribbles had been added.

Good luck, Harry, wherever you are.

If you read this, Harry, we're all behind you!

Long live Harry Potter.

"It's a shame they wrote on the sign." Hermione said with remorse.

"Are you kidding me? I prefer the scribbles over the official sign."

"People meant well."

"And I get that Ron. But it's like what Vicar Swain was saying earlier, about 'a time to break down, and a time to build up;' If people need a reminder, I accept that, but … I don't need this, like this." he gestured to the house. As he did Harry felt a ting of magic from his signet ring and the gate opened. He walked forward.

"Harry!" Hermione snapped. "This is a monument." she said, gesturing to the sign.

Harry raised his hand showing his signet ring. "This is my home."

Ginny immediately followed, reminding them. "Master of House Potter."

Ron followed along After an indignant sigh Hermione did too. The front door repeated the action of the gate. Harry didn't need to even touch the door. The house opened for its master. It opened into a sitting room dominated by a fireplace. Hardwood floor, off white walls, now aged. All the furniture showed clear signs of a struggle.

"Merlin," Hermione said, "It looks like after that night they just closed the door and walked away."

"You okay, babe?" Ginny asked.

Harry shrugged. "I've imagined this place a thousand times over. I honestly am fine."

With him steady for the moment Ginny looked around, she saw the remnants of a happy home from years past. The plants were obviously long dead, and many nicknacks obviously destroyed, but what caught her eye most was still on the wall. Photographs, family photos, HIS family photos. Ginny didn't even ask first. Reflexively she grabbed Harry's pack off his shoulder, with no resistance, and started grabbing photos of the wall.

"Ginny! You can't steal from a memorial!"

"I'm not! It's inheritance. It's Harry's!" she cried back. "Every stick of furniture and scrap of paper or fabric under this roof is his." Hermione finally nodded her head in understanding. "Frankly I think a lot of these photos would look better at home with him. You know, his trunk room, or Grimmauld, or at the Burrow."

"The Burrow?" Harry questioned.

"Ronald, I'm busy, would you please?" Ginny asked as she was putting photos in Harry's bag.

Harry felt the slap to the back of his head as Ron came but beside him. "You're going to keep getting these when you forget YOU ARE FAMILY!" he yelled sarcastically.

"Sorry."

"It's been a few weeks. We can forgive you." Ron said, putting that arm around Harry hugging him briefly, then heading off for a different wall. "I'll give you a hand, sis."

Finally realizing how things were going to be, Hermione took to task. "I'll look through the books, look for anything rare or sentimental."

"Thanks… all of you." With photos and books being covered, Harry started looking for anything else. What first caught his mind was wat looked like a 2 ft length of dark stained board but with plaster casting of various animals on it: A smaller deer print, then a larger deer print. A smaller dog print, then larger, finally a rat at the end.

Ron stood next to him as Harry studied it. "Weren't your parent's shape shifters, like Sirius," he snapped his fingers thinking for a moment, "animagus."

Harry nodded, "I think it's all the Marauders, Mum, Dad, Sirius, Remus, and Peter Pettigrew."

"That is bloody cool. I'm snagging that for you if you don't grab it yourself."

"Way ahead of you, Ron."

Once packed, Harry returned to looking. He really had no idea what that would be, but he had learned to keep himself open. He knew he hated seeing the place look like a shambles. Reflex unfortunately developed under the Dursleys but still shown appreciated at the Burrow, was picking up and cleaning. So he at least started to pick up the knick knacks that obviously had fallen, picked up the knocked over chair. It was when he sat the couch upright again he found it. "Whoa." was all Harry could say. It was about 11 inches long and flexible mahogany wood.

Ginny recognized the tone of voice. "Wacha find love," she said as she came over.

"I think I found Dad's wand."

"WOW… Okay that alone is worth this. Congrats." she said with a kiss to his cheek, then went back to the picture collection.

A few minutes later they heard Hermione call from upstairs. "Harry, a couple of things for you." Her call brought up everyone's attention. They followed her voice upstairs to what had been his parent's bedroom. Hermione was sitting on the corner of the unmade bed, with a pair of books. "I found one in each of these nightstands." She said as she handed them over.

The first was worn black leather, with the House Potter crest on the cover with gold lettering. Personal Spellbook of James Potter. The second was a red leather cover with a picture of a flower matching the owner's name. The silver lettering on this read Spells and Witchcraft of Lily Evans Potter.

"Merlin," Harry whispered, "This… is… brilliant."

"One other thing. This was on top of your mother's." It was a 10 inch piece of willow… his mother's wand.

They did continue to look through the cottage. But the only other item to anyone's interest was a Corduroy bomber jacket. When Ginny found it she looked to confirm Harry was in a different room then she slid the jacket into her own purse. Hermione gave her a questioning look, but all Ginny did was wink and press her finger to her lips.

Coming back in, Harry asked "Hermione, do you have the time?"

"Half past three."

"Right, we ought to head out to meet Master Abbott." He took a long breath as they headed out the door. "Thank you all, very very much." The door closed and locked behind him with the same magical power that had opened it.

Harry took a moment looking over the cottage that had marked a dark and fateful night, now turned to a memorial to make a statement. Ginny came to his side again. "How do you feel?"

He looked down to his fiery redhead whom he knew would understand. "Pissed and ornery,"

"You flirt," she smiled. "How do I help?"

He kissed her forehead. "This one I got." As his cocky grin emerged for the first time that day, Ginny felt far more relieved than she thought possible.

This cottage may be making a statement, but it was still his cottage and so he might as well add his own statement. He drew his wand to the house. "Fallacia scriptus," he cast as a small arc of lightning shot out to the cottage. He concentrated to form the words properly, But when he was done a new message was added to the property:

His Name is Riddle and I am Not Afraid - Harry Potter, Sept 1996

Hermione rolled her eyes, "Honestly Harry, you don't understand subtly in the slightest, do you?" She shook her head as she walked back to the street. Ron gave an enthusiastic thumbs up.

Harry looked to Ginny, expectantly. She had an incredibly seductive smile on. As her hands were on his tie. "I thought you were going to burn it to the ground. This is even better." She pulled him into kiss him more fiercely than when she was proving a point to Romilda. "Master Potter, you are incredibly sexy when you are ornery."

They made their way away from the cottage and to the Abbott Manor house. It was never really a problem to find the manor in these villages, look for the largest building. The steward met them at the door and opened it for them. Harry gave the introduction for them. "Master Potter and associates for Master Abbott, we are expected for tea."

"Very good, right this way." The steward led them to a garden level sitting room made mostly of glass paned windows. The tea set was already prepared with steam rising out of the pot. Winston, Neville, and Hanna all rose to greet Harry's team."

"Welcome to Abbott Manor, Master Potter. Please be seated." The steward served them, then Winston clarified. "We will be meeting in private for a spell, thank you, Rodger. Hannah, would you be so kind as to set the charms. Master Potter, I intend to discuss things of a delicate matter, please feel free to add any charms you wish."

"Hermione?" Harry asked, who was already rising to cast.

A few moments later both witches were satisfied.

"Again Master-"

He raised his hand, "Considering what we are about to discuss, 'Winston' will do just fine."

"As will 'Harry' then sir, and my condolences for your loss and appreciation for your time today. How can I help?"

"You choose your words well, Harry. I will choose mine. His name is Riddle, and I am not afraid." Winson said as he sat forward. "The day after I discovered Catherine I contacted the Minister of Magic to offer my aid. I remember the last war, I wished not to repeat it… it seems my wish is irrelevant. When the Minister returned my owl. His words were. 'The Ministry has already committed all resources against the Death Eaters. The best path to success is to maintain our daily lives.' He babbled on from there." Winston stopped and rose from his chair walking over to the fireplace. "We are nobility, Harry. I am sure you know when you are being placated as much as I. Twenty four years I was with Catherine. Twenty four years and a wonderful daughter we share, and those damned Death Eaters snuffed out my wife like a candle," he growled as his arm trembled as stared into the flames. "MY WIFE!" He shouted, throwing his tea cup into the flame shattering it.

Harry subtlying looked at Hannah and Neville, both of whom nodded, confirming yes, he's been like this for a bit. Anger vented for the moment Winston returned to his seat "So in contrast to that report, I read the paper, and listened to the news and as I am sure you can believe, Neville and Hannah have my ear." He sat down and looked Harry squarely in the eyes. "Tell me Harry. Are you truly as doggedly determined to kill Riddle as you appear?"

Harry grinned. "What's Neville said."

Neville, Hanna, and Winston smiled. "You chose your partners well, Harry. He's told me precious little. He has assured me that no one in or out of the ministry has a greater desire nor a greater plan for the fall of Riddle. But for specifics, he has refused… I believe he has even refused to tell my daughter. Impressing me with his backbone." Winston raised an eyebrow and gave a wry smile. "His only further statement is that we would need to speak lord to lord."

"What can I say sir, both your daughter and I know how to pick 'em." Harry replied with his grin.

Winston chuckled. "Neither of us are fools, Harry, nor are we blind. We've already discussed House Longbottom, and you sat with Lady Bones. From what Hannah tells me you are raising your own combat team at Hogwarts."

"Your information is accurate, sir. I will even volunteer again what is public record. I will not rest until Riddle is in the ground."

Winston watched him closely for a few moments. "Your reputation precedes you Harry and what it has been in the last few months… well… I like your fire Harry. I will offer to you what the Ministry saw fit to throw to the wayside. House Abbott will stand with you and your Master Potter."

This time Harry was the one to sit and study the man before him. Winston, he didn't know. But Harry was smart enough to know he didn't know enough people by himself to win. And losing was not an option. But Winston wasn't alone. "Neville, you vouch for this man? You testify to honesty."

Neville, didn't hesitate. "I do, frankly he's not much different than, Susan."

Hannah spoke up. "If I may, Harry?"

"Of course, Hannah."

"We both want vengeance for mum. You seem to be the surest bet to send Riddle to hell," she said with a fresh edge to her voice that hadn't been there a week ago. Part of him was saddened it came to her, but happy it was at least being direct well.

Harry nodded, "I am willing to discuss this. First I would ask about communication and coordination."

Winston nodded. "I believe I can make things simple for you. Neville, we've already discussed you and Hannah's relationship. You know you've found my approval. Are you willing to put her safety as paramount concern to you?

Again, without hesitation. "On my honor, sir."

Winston nodded. "Very well. I had thought about withdrawing Hannah from class and continuing with private tutoring. But, with Neville charged with her security and as a greater contribution to the war. I am willing to have her return to Hogwarts. With her mother's passing, the title of Lady, in her case, Lady in Waiting, passes to her. I trust that will be sufficient?"

"More than. Master and now Lady Abbott, welcome to the Aligned Houses, and to the war. Neville, bring her up to speed."

They went over some of the smaller details, and had more general pleasant small talk over supper. Finally the team portkeyed back to Hogwarts. Harry hugged them all in appreciation. Ron and Hermione excused themselves. Ginny grabbed changed of clothes cloaked her way to Harry's room to help him unpack… and emotionally decompress.

"Middle of the week?" Harry asked jokingly.

"I don't care. Harry, you took your turn sobbing to me for a 2nd time this week. I'm not going anywhere."

"Thank you." he exhaled deeply. "So dumb question, how exactly are you handling your roommates."

Ginny snickered. "We all have an agreement. So long as we show up for breakfast the next morning safe and sound, we cover for the others. They are surprised I haven't gotten busted yet… but then I remind them who my boyfriend is."

Harry went through the photos gathered. "Hey, Gin, if you are interested in my photos, this would be what I had before your caper today." He said as he offered his picture album.

"You sure?" she asked. "Nothing embarrassing?" she smiled.

Harry shook his head. "It's a collection of photos that Hagrid collected from people he knew that knew my parents." As Ginny turned pages, Harry unpacked. The animal track prints he hug up over the door to his bathroom. A selection of photos went on the walls. The rest he put away. Reverently, he put his parent's wants in his desk drawer. Finally he grabbed his parents spell books and joined Ginny on his bed.

"Gin, I suppose this is about as close as we get to meeting my parents."

She looked up warmly, "I'm honored, Harry. Thank you."