A Different Universe by dunuelos

Rating: NC17
Genres: Drama, Romance
Relationships: Harry & Hermione
Book: Harry & Hermione, Books 1 - 5
Published: 14/03/2010
Last Updated: 17/08/2010
Status: In Progress

A spinoff from another fic I wrote on another site. With the help of an unusual messenger, Harry
starts to take back control from those that would use him.




1. Chapter 1
------------

A/N: This is an offshoot of "Stories of the Lone Traveller" on ff(dot)net which I
borrowed from The Professional on ff(dot)net.

Harry, having lost everything, attempts to go back in time to fix things, only to find himself
moved from Alternate Reality to Alternate Reality.

He arrives, he makes a difference and then he gets moved on by the forces of the megaverse (I
just made that up -- just now).

I decided that I liked this particular story very much (I tend to be an HHr shipper) and that I
could write a story as to the resolution of the story line.

This chapter is taken from "A Different Universe" from my *Stories* title. It
will set up what is to come. I recommend reading both that story (number 5751435) as well as The
Professional's original story (number 2673584).

Thanks to my readers who have encouraged me, The Professional whom I stol ... er, borrowed ...
the story idea from, JK Rowling for providing the characters, the producers of Quantum Leap which
also gave inspiration to The Professional and myself; I don't really own anything; I'm just
happy to play in the universes.

Harry Potter was incensed. He had just been dumped back to his demented relatives again.

Just days ago he had seen his godfather enter the Veil courtesy of Bellatrix Lestrange. He had
been given a prophesy which basically said it was him or Voldyshorts. The vaunted Order of the
Fried Chicken had then goaded his uncle under the guise of 'warning him'. And then he had
Hedwig taken from him and he was made incommunicado and guarded from outside contact on the orders
of one Albus Dumbledore. Could his life get any worse?

When he got back to Privit Drive, his Uncle Vernon took him aside. "Boy, I will not be
threatened by freaks! My sister is coming to visit and I expect certain things to be taken care of.
You will take care of them or you will be in a permanent coma ward in the hospital. I have friends
who are judges and no one will touch me for it. Do you understand, boy?" Vernon's face was
turning purple. Harry nodded his head.

Once they were inside the house, Vernon punched him in the left kidney. "That is a
reminder! Now put your freaky things away; you have work to do in the garden."

An older Harry arrived in a blue light. He looked around and recognized the park he was in. He
had spent many a day running from his cousin and his friends in this area. He wondered why he was
here.

He decided to disillusion himself and inspect the neighborhood.

As he was walking down Privet, he saw a younger version of himself outside in the hot sun,
working on the flowerbeds at the front of the house. He paused and watched.

He was confused. If the signs that he observed were correct, he was somewhere around the end of
fifth year. He himself, at that time, was holed up in his room for 4 weeks, grieving over the loss
of his godfather. Why was his younger version working in the hot sun?

He espied Vernon Dursley come and yell out some instructions, mentioning his sister's
impending visit. His sister hadn't visited that summer.

He looked around and saw the slight shimmering of a disillusioned Order member across the street
from his own position, watching the abuse casually.

There was something wrong here. He would have to watch and figure out what to do.

After spending several hours watching the scene around his old home, Harry had caught on to a
few things. This reality's Order was not very concerned apparently with his younger
version's health and happiness. His legilimency had picked up the stray thoughts of the guard
watching the boy. They never saw his disillusioned form; with the power he apparently had, it was
too much for the lower level users to apprehend.

Apparently, in this reality, Dumbledore's orders were much more stringent and harsh than his
own. Then again, he had never tested the scope of the guard when he was in the same point in his
life; he had been too caught up in grief and his relatives had been cowed sufficiently that they
had left him alone. Such was not the case here.

The orders were apparently much more Machiavellian; he was to be kept under watch and there was
to be no interference from the Order as regards the treatment of one Harry James Potter at the
hands of his relatives. Should he attempt to leave the area, efforts were to be made to put him
back in the house and memory charms were authorized to prevent any "unfortunate
decisions" that he should make.

This scene would require a much more cunning approach than he had imagined.

Harry looked around. All day he had the feeling that he was being watched. Unlike earlier
feelings like it, there was no dislike or even indifference. If he was familiar with the feeling,
he would have said it was as though he was being watched by ... family.

The traveler apparated to the Burrow. He could have apparated through whatever wards were
present, thereby destroying them, but he wanted to inspect the differences he had seen in this
reality.

After a few moments of inspecting the wards that he found there, he concentrated on coming
through them with the least amount of disruption he could. He was hoping that the Harry in this
reality was keyed in enough and he was similar enough so that there would be no disturbance.

After pausing to make sure he hadn't been noticed, he crept toward the ramshackle building.
He peered through the window and saw a sight that both warmed him and alarmed him.

Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were sitting at the kitchen table with Ron, Ginny and Percy. They seemed to
be enjoying themselves immensely talking about whatever they were talking about. It warmed him to
see the family so close. It alarmed him because there seemed to be ... an almost vicious humor
apparent.

Ron apparently was regaling them with some anecdote or another with Ginny interjecting comments.
Ginny pantomimed clutching her chest in pain and fainting and the others laughed. Wait a moment.
The only person who was hurt like that in this time was ... Hermione.

Why would these five be speaking about this with such humor? He remembered the incident from the
end of his fifth year. In his reality there would be no such humor at Hermione's expense.

Suddenly the floo in the room flared and the Weasleys took on a more reserved look, almost as
though they had put on masks.

Stepping into the room was a man he admired beyond reproach in his own life. Dumbledore appeared
in one of his garish purple robes with stars and moons embroidered in whites and yellows. The masks
came off again as they discussed something, with the humor apparently coming back. The figure of
Albus Dumbledore looked at the clock in the room and made a comment; the masks were put back
on.

The floo flared again and the images of Remus Lupin and Nymphadora Tonks appeared in the room
through the fire.

The almost lugubrious expressions were apparent on the audience of Weasleys as the three new
arrivals spoke. Harry narrowed his eyes. Something was feeling VERY wrong. He remembered the almost
indifferent thoughts he had sensed around those watching Harry Potter. He started getting very
nervous.

With an emotion of worry, he decided he had to spend more time learning the differences between
this reality and his own. His anger flared for a moment, and the Dumbledore in the room widened his
eyes briefly. He distractedly sent off Remus and Tonks and then made a comment to the Weasleys,
which caused them to being searching the room and windows nervously.

Harry moved quietly toward the edge of the wards before he was caught by a closer inspection.
Once he passed the edges of the wards, he apparated away. He had some people and things to check
on.

Harry thought about what he had seen and sensed as he watched the moderately attractive house of
his other teenage best friend. There was no indication of the Order watching the house, nor any
death eaters.

He spied the parents coming back from their day. His other friend had appeared and greeted them,
her wand surreptitiously held until some conversation on the porch had concluded. His other friend
had a look of worry and pain apparent, well apparent to him really. He was certain that if one who
hadn't spend every day of Hogwarts with that person would be watching, she would seem perfectly
calm and serene. The parents hadn't reacted to the subtle expressions. Hermione was hiding
things from them.

He watched them all get into the car and drive away.

He would have to work hard to help the Harry in this reality. There were things happening behind
the scenes that he was certain that his younger self was not aware of. What was the best course? He
apparated off to the Leaky Cauldron. He needed to eat and to get some rest so that he could plan
his next move.

He came into the Cauldron and moved to Tom. "Hello, Tom," he began quietly.
"I'm a lone traveler in the night. Do you have a room?" Tom's eyes widened
momentarily as he took in the traveler's appearance and then he nodded. "If you have some
time tonight, I could use some information on the state of things as well."

"Of course, sir; I will have some time after supper around 9:00. Is that
satisfactory?" Harry nodded as he followed Tom up to a room that he could use to gather
information and make some plans.

Old Tom and Harry were having a chat after supper.

"I haven't seen young Mr. Potter in the Alley, other than the period he was staying
after he blew up his Aunt." Harry chuckled to himself; he remembered blowing up Marge. And
although it had been quite worrisome at the time, afterward he could see the humor. "However,
the rumors this last year didn't match up to young man I met then. Kept to himself fairly; not
much of an 'attention-seeking nutter' if you ask me. The thing that struck me is that the
professors from the school and his friend's mother that I have seen haven't said much when
they've heard the comments floating around the bar when they were here. And that's the odd
thing; Molly Weasley is incapable of being quiet when she has opinion. Arthur, the one or two times
I have seen him here, is always quick to speak in his defense."

The traveler mulled this over. He agreed with Tom; that didn't sound like the Molly Weasley
he knew. "Her twin boys have been in more recently since they got the shop. They are also very
vocal when it comes to Mr. Potter's defense. All she would say is 'he's from a wealthy
family; the well-off, they're eccentric'."

All of that seemed to match up to his own universe -- except the part about Molly Weasley.

Harry decided to mull over what he knew and get a good kip in.

The next day Harry decided to visit Gringott's. He was going to check the policies on
information; he himself had never gotten a statement when he was underage. Then again,
Gringott's was more of a 'private lock-box' type institution versus the muggle type
that deposited and disbursed against a recorded balance.

He learned that notices had been sent out for the will reading of Sirius Black. This was normal
policy; all of those named in a will were apprised of the reading, whether they were of age or not.
He remembered when he had inherited things in his own universe.

In his own universe, the information on inheritance had come from the Ministry. He remembered
the Minister of Magic having come and seen him after Albus Dumbledore's will had been read. In
that world, the will was probated through wizards. Not so here.

Here, the will was probated by goblins, and they took on their job of proper procedure very
seriously. He had to tell of his unique history to get any information from the goblins and, after
taking an oath not to pass on the information beyond his younger version, had learned that the
goblins were concerned that there had been no visit to be apprised of the legacy of his family.
This was compounded when the notice of the will reading had been answered by the magical guardian,
Albus Dumbledore, rather than the client himself. They had even noted that another minor, one Ms.
Hermione Granger, had also not answered personally. Other minors, Mr. Ronald Weasley and Ms.
Ginerva Weasley had answered personally.

As the old muggle playwright had written centuries before: Something was rotten in the State of
Denmark.

He apparated away to the well off muggle neighborhood he had been to the day before. In his
jacket pocket, he had the notice for the will reading scheduled two days from then.

He watched for a bit to ensure that there was no signs that there were any watchers. When 30
minutes had passed with no indications, he moved to the front door and pressed the buzzer. After a
few moments, the door opened to show a young woman with bushy hair and a polite expression. He
noted that her hand was on the door and the other was beside her, apparently holding something away
from view but still with easy access.

"Can I help you?"

"I have a notice here for one Hermione Jane Granger. Is she available?" The girl
tensed.

"I am she." The traveler could see her become prepared to react. "Can you say
whom the notice is from?"

"Gringott's." With that word, Harry saw her wand come more into view. "Yes,
I'm a wizard, and no, I mean you no harm. I am delivering this on the request of Gringott's
Bank and to ask you a few things that would help me and possibly you."

Hermione looked at the features of the man. He was an attractive man who reminded her so much of
her unrequited love-interest; she decided to allow him in, though she kept her wand ready. Constant
vigilance and all that. "Please come in." She backed away giving him space but kept
herself ready. "If you would like to take a seat ..." she added, pointing with her
non-wand hand toward a couch in the nearby sitting area.

"Thank you." Harry moved to the couch and allowed her to control the movements; it was
her house. After he was seated, he looked at her and continued, "After some information
gathering at the bank, I was asked to deliver this by hand when I mentioned wanting to come and ask
you some questions."

"What questions? And why do you look so much like my friend, but older? Are you
related?"

"As to why I look like your friend but older, the explanation will take some time. Suffice
it to say, I am a somewhat older version of your friend. My name is Harry Potter and I come from an
alternate reality."

After the explanations had eaten up a bit of time and Hermione had offered him some tea and
scones, the two sat and talked of what was happening with Harry Potter.

"I was informed by Professor Dumbledore that I couldn't contact him for security
reasons. I never personally received the notice of the will reading. All of these things just
don't add up!" Hermione was agitated to learn of what Harry had seen the day before when
he had watched his younger self. Hermione had wanted to go off and try to visit regardless of
instructions when she had listened to the story.

Harry had stopped her. He had a plan. "Have you ever considered inviting Harry to stay over
at your house?" Hermione blushed and admitted that she had, although she was nervous to ask.
"Well, if I extended an invitation after setting up a few wards here, would you be able to
work out the details?"

Hermione thought about it. "Well, I have to get my parents permission first, of course. But
that shouldn't be an issue. My only concern is what to do about hiding the fact that Harry is
here."

"Work it out with them, and I will do the wards. I think you will like it."
Hermione's parents were due home for lunch shortly.

After Hermione and the traveler had explained things to the Grangers, he was given permission to
erect some wards. Although he wasn't an expert, he had learned well from his Hermione from the
time of the camping trip. He was much more selective than he would be if he was trying to hide the
property completely.

He set up wizard notice-me-not charms to make the property less than obvious to anyone watching.
They would know it was there, but they wouldn't pay attention to what happened on the property;
it would be unimportant. He also set up wizard repelling wards. Anyone not keyed in would not feel
comfortable about visiting and feel a desire to rush off to handle something else.

It wasn't a Fidelius Charm by any stretch of imagination, but the wards were sufficiently
strong that any magical man or woman wouldn't feel the need to inspect the property. It would
not do to try to hide the property completely as he didn't want any indication that there was
anything out of the ordinary.

After Harry had cast the charms and wards, he took Hermione's letter for his younger self
with him.

After watching the young Harry for a bit, the older one noticed that the person watching was
Mundungus Fletcher. He wouldn't have seen it had the man not fallen in a slumber in the quiet
neighborhood and the edge of his foot not become uncovered when he shifted. The elder Harry could
sense the Muggle-Notice-Me-Not charm on him, so he was in little danger of violating the statute of
secrecy. He was apparently mostly hiding from young Harry Potter.

Said teenager was apparently working without supervision. His Uncle's car was not there and
his Aunt Petunia, though strict and disagreeable, was not one to interrupt Harry when he was
gardening. It was counter-productive to the nicely manicured flower garden which was the pride of
her gossip group. She even tried to distract Vernon on occasion. Not for the boy's sake of
course, but for the sake of her pride and superiority in her circle of neighbors.

Ahhh, there was the horse-faced woman now. She apparently was going to go and gossip at the
current queen gossip's house. After a scathing comment to the freak, she walked down the block
toward said house.

Harry looked to Mundungus. Apparently he was too drunk to awaken from the small amount of
noise.

He made his way over to the younger version of himself. He appeared to be almost finished. He
hit his younger version with a non-verbal Muffliato before quietly saying to the teenager,
"It's a friend, don't do anything differently. Finish up and make your way to your
room. I have a letter from Hermione." The teenager looked around and noticed the faint
shimmering of a disillusioned person near him.

He was so desperate for contact that he decided to trust that whoever had spoken to him really
was a friend.

He finished the last bit of weeding and made great show of putting away the tools before opening
the front door and looking about, allowing the disillusioned wizard to go in first.

The traveler moved inside and then undid the disillusionment. The teenager looked at the older
version of himself with a bit of shock and some suspicion.

"I know. I look like you. Suffice it to say I can explain. Let's move it to your room
and I have a couple letters for you."

Harry spent the next bit explaining himself to his teenage version, who was obviously shocked by
the revelations. When he got to the part about Gringott's and Hermione, he passed the notice of
the will reading and Hermione's letter to him.

The teenager looked through the letters and finally exploded with annoyance. "And what am I
supposed to do? I apparently am prevented from leaving by the Order. My owl Hedwig is being cared
for by Hagrid at Dumbledore's orders. I can't do magic or I'll get another notice. So
what am I supposed to do?"

"Well, I have a plan. First, who can you trust completely to never betray you?" Harry
thought about it for a minute.

"Hermione. Lupin maybe. I'm not sure."

"How about non-wizards? Possibly a magical creature?" Harry the older asked slyly.

Harry the younger's eyes widened. "Dobby!"

Suddenly, said house-elf popped in front of Harry. "Oh, Mister Harry Potter Sir has called
Dobby! How can Dobby help Mr. Harry Sir?"

The younger Harry began laughing as he greeted Dobby. Dobby was excited. He was shocked when he
espied the older version of his friend. "Hello, Dobby. I am a friend as well. I was about to
advise your friend here to hire you. What you say to that?"

Dobby bounced excitedly. "I would love that. Mr. Harry Potter, do you want to hire
Dobby?"

The younger looked to the older and the older nodded at him. "Sure, Dobby. Wages like you
get at Hogwarts. How is Winky doing?"

Dobby's ears went down. "Winky is still drinking butterbeer. I is trying to take care
of her but she misses her family."

The traveler looked at Harry. "Maybe you could help Winky if Dobby here helps you. I think
you could use the extra help from what I learned at Gringott's."

Harry nodded. "Dobby, can you take letters for me and help me get to where I have to go?
Can you keep my secrets and not tell anyone I don't ask you to?"

Dobby bounced up and down and nodded his head vigorously. "Dobby can do that!"

"I would like to have you take a reply to Hermione Granger for me. She sent a letter and my
owl is at Hogwarts. Two days from now, I would like you to take me to Diagon Alley and then
afterward take me to Hermione's house. Can you do that?"

After Dobby and Harry had worked out what would happen, Dobby popped off with the response to
Hermione's letter and the letter to Gringott's advising them that confidentially speaking,
he would like to appear at the will reading and he would arrive early to discuss matters.

When all was said and done, young Harry thanked the traveler for his assistance.

"Look. I know what it's like to be kept in the dark. Maybe in my reality, I could count
on others more, but still many things were kept from me. Your Hermione seems to be much more
interested in you than mine was. Just because another Hermione wasn't right for a different
Harry, that doesn't mean things wouldn't work out for you. My advise to you is to live your
life, damn those that want to keep you in the dark. Your happiness IS worth something."

The teenager thanked him again. "What do I say to the 'responsible adults' when
they ask how I got this information?"

Harry looked at his younger self. "Just tell them you were helped by a Lone
Traveler."

Harry disappeared in a blue pulsing light while the teenager looked on. Thanks to his alternate
self, he had options and a plan. He WOULD live his life. And Hermione being interested in him
"that way" was something that he felt he could learn to live with, he said to himself
with a grin.



2. Chapter 2
------------

Harry considered all that he had been told by his "other self". His other self had
been in love with Ginny Weasley, and Ron and Hermione had been moving toward a relationship.

Apparently, in THAT universe, the people around him were as they appeared to be. Hermione was in
love with Ron; Ginny was in love with him; Dumbledore wanted him to succeed; the Weasleys could be
trusted; Snape was on his side but had to appear to be "Death Eater Incarnate".

However, in his own universe -- this universe -- the Weasleys were conniving; Dumbledore was an
illegal jailor; he was being lied to; Hermione wanted him and not Ron.

Hermione. Now there was a name that brought a skip to his heart and the blood to his face, as
well as other, less obvious parts.

He thought about his life. Obviously, he wasn't safe. Vernon Dursley, in direct
contradiction to the "warning" from the Order, was being vicious and vindictive. The
Weasels, apparently with Dumbledick's support, had something up their sleeves. Dumbles was
keeping him in Durzkaban with some agenda.

He decided he needed to keep his head low and survive tomorrow before he sprung himself, with
Dobby's help, and got himself in a better position.

First thing, act submissive and complete all the slave labor ... um, "chores" ... with
minimum fuss. "Aunt" Marge, evil bitch extraordinaire number 3 (Bellatrix Lestrange and
Dolores Umbridge were numbers 1 and 2 on his list) would be here the day after tomorrow, and his
corpulent uncle wanted things perfect.

As long as he was out of here before she arrived, he would be happy.

Second thing, contact Tonks and Remus courtesy of Dobby express and fill them in. Apparently,
according to ... well, himself ... these two apparently could be trusted.

Third thing, get himself to Gringott's early. Set things up so that he could prepare himself
and contingency plans if things went pear-shaped.

Fourth thing, get Snape actually sounded out by asking Tonks to make some comments, with Remus
watching on. Tonks could prattle on, and Remus could watch for reactions. He needed an ally at
Hogwarts, and unfortunately, Severus Snape might be his best bet. Minerva McGonagall, until he
could get some help verifying where she stood, was too risky.

Fifth, and most important, get himself to Hermione's. Apparently, she felt for him how he
felt for her. And if love was the power he-knows-not, this was his best bet. He admitted to himself
that his reasons for exploring this direction included a bit of teenage hormones. He would never
disrespect Hermione, but he would love to be her plaything if he had a chance.

He would have to think of other plans as he finished his chores.

Albus Dumbledore mused upon his plans for the wizarding world.

His weapon was tucked away safely, isolated from outside contact. His chosen scapegoat ... err,
the evil Dark Lord of the age ... had been damaged in his attempt to possess his weapon. This
fortuitous event allowed Albus some time to prepare his next step to glory.

The interfering Sirius Black had been fortunately ... umm, unfortunately ... lost in the events
which revealed to the world that Tom Riddle had indeed been returned to a corporeal form. He was of
two minds about that.

He was ecstatic that one of the major obstacles to his plans had been eliminated. He was not
happy that his sublime Order had been exposed to such a degree.

Although he really didn't need most of them, there was definite propaganda value to being
the "leader of the resistance" and appearing to hold the "moral high ground".
This he had learned in his conflict with his old lover Gellert.

When one wants to be the leader, one had to have something to lead. And if one could use this
resource without prying eyes -- until the right time -- one could accomplish much out of the view
of those that could interfere.

He would have to arrange something. Although Fudge was in hot water over Tom's return, Fudge
no longer had the resources necessary to stay in power. He had left Fudge in position because he
was tractable. The whole "conflict" of the year before had been part of his plan to make
himself look like the savior that he really wanted the wizarding world to view him as.

He had NOT taken into account Fudge sending in his most vicious lackey.

Madam Umbridge had been an unfortunate choice as far as his plans went. If the Ministry had sent
anyone else, he would not be in the position he was in. He had been hoping for someone that would
concentrate on himself and not his weapon. This was so that when he DID prove himself the more
"righteous" his image would be boosted beyond his already lofty position.

His plan had backfired to a degree as Madam Umbridge had concentrated on his weapon, recognizing
that Albus himself would be damaged by this. When the "sewing club" had been exposed,
Albus had recognized an opportunity.

When he realized that Harry had inadvertently put him almost exactly back where he needed to be,
his pleasure had been almost impossible to hide. Of course he had used this almost overwhelming
emotion to foster the illusion he had been "touched" by the boy's support, and this
had worked splendidly.

In truth, he didn't care one whit about how he increased his influence and power, only so
long as it WAS increased. Albus had used the name "Dumbledore's Army" to place
himself at the opposite end to the obvious evil of the woman.

The "almost" in "almost back where he needed to be" meant that he had to
flee the scene. But to such a person as himself, this was a small obstacle, if properly handled.
However, the boy left to his own devices had inadvertently thrown a wrench into his plan.

The unfortunate result of this was that the boy's image was currently unassailable and there
was too much positive feelings for him from the sheep ... err, the wizarding public ... and this
could give the boy too much influence if he attempted to break out on his own.

THAT was something that couldn't be left alone. He needed to distract the public for long
enough to ensure his position with the boy. But what could he do?

It came to him. He would kill two birds with one stone.

He went to the floo in his office, and placed a pinch of floo powder in the fire. He put his
head in and called out, "Severus! To my office please!"

Albus watched as his pawn moved into the office. This pawn took delicate handling to ensure that
the results he desired were the results achieved.

"Severus, please have a seat." Severus Snape sat quietly in front of the headmaster.
"I need to know what the current situation is with Tom."

Snape thought a moment. "He is currently recuperating from the conflict at the Ministry of
Magic. He will be indisposed for possibly another 2 to 3 days. His followers in the Ministry of
Magic are being directed to pull resources from Azkaban Prison so that he may take advantage of the
lapse. I was planning on bringing this up at the Order meeting tonight, so that the members of the
Order that are Aurors could be informed."

"Well my boy, it might be best if I planted the information with the Ministry and we did
not needlessly involve the Order members that could not do much about this. I will ensure that our
members that need to know are kept in the loop. Is there anything else?"

"He has currently placed several members on alert for anything that aid in his attempts
against his nemesis. It is being assumed, by Bellatrix Lestrange and Narcissa Malfoy, that Sirius
Black did not have opportunity to update his will and if he did, they could contest the will as
Draco is the closest blood relative. As such, they are assuming that my godson will inherit. They
plan on encouraging the boy to take the Mark to ensure that the resources are made available for
the Dark Lord's plans."

"Ah, yes. It is most unfortunate that Mr. Black was not in a position to do more.
Unfortunately, his will prior to his incarceration was inadvertently destroyed along with the
Potters' wills and I do not believe he had opportunity to submit another will beyond the one he
wrote when he first escaped Azkaban." Here Albus took on a sad look. "His closest
relative not currently disowned IS young Mr. Malfoy. Mr. Potter, unfortunately, is not related
sufficiently to take control of that house. It would be best if Draco was dissuaded from taking the
Mark."

"I have attempted to do so at every opportunity. However, as you are aware, I must be
cautious in my wording. The Dark Lord must not be aware of my own position on this."

"Yes, and I do appreciate the danger you place yourself in. I would like to prepare for the
next step."

Here Severus looked alert.

"I would like you to pass on some misdirection. Tell Tom that I am worried about Amelia
Bones becoming the next Minister."

Severus Snape took on a thunderous look. "I do not think that would be wise. Madam Bones is
the only person in authority who is not a complete dunderhead. She alone was the deciding factor in
Potter's acquittal last summer. Of this you are aware. If we place too much scrutiny on her, he
might decide to attack her."

"I understand, my boy. I will be ensuring that she is informed of Tom's increased
interest in her and I am sure that she will be protected sufficiently. I only need to distract Tom
for a short time to ensure attention is kept away from Mr. Potter. There is currently too much
interest in him, and a story of the valiant defense of Madam Bones would bring hope to the
wizarding public." Albus looked upon his pawn with complete equanimity.

Albus was well aware what Tom Riddle's response would be. He needed the woman eliminated as
she was one of the only hurdles left in managing the situation as he needed it to be. It would be
unfortunate, but the death of Madam Amelia Bones would ensure that sufficient attention was taken
away from Mr. Potter as well as his Order. It would also ensure that no one in the Ministry would
be left in authority that might be in a position to forestall his control of his weapon. That must
be avoided at all cost.

Severus Snape did not seem mollified. "Some things are far too risky."

Dumbledore responded calmly, "Here. I will complete the missive and send it off with Fawkes
before you leave the office." Dumbledore wrote a letter to Amelia, stating that his informant
within the Death Eaters was aware of an increased interest in her and that she needed to ensure she
had sufficient security in the interest of the secure future of the wizarding world. He handed over
the missive and allowed Snape to peruse it.

Severus Snape nodded his head and gave the parchment back to Dumbledore. Dumbledore called out
to Fawkes. The bird flew majestically from the perch that he had placed control runes on so long
ago. "Fawkes, I am sure you were listening. I need to ensure this message gets to where it
needs to go." Dumbledore sent a mental image to the bird to drop the letter in the nearest
active volcano.

Fawkes nodded his head and then flamed out of the office.

"Is that sufficient, Severus?" Snape nodded his head curtly. "Please go place the
plan in motion and I will see to it that you are accounted for at the meeting tonight."

Snape nodded his head and then walked out of the office, to complete the instructions that he
was given. He only hoped that Madam Bones took the threat seriously.

Dumbledore sat back in his seat and allowed a smirk to form on his lips. His plan was forming
nicely.

Dumbledore really only made one mistake and this mistake was one that would contribute to his
plans failing spectacularly.

In the aftermath of the events at the Ministry of Magic, he had failed to notice that
Harry's tantrum upon being locked into the office had included some damage to the control runes
that Albus had placed on Fawkes's perch. Harry's magic had damage the binding rune on his
control array and Albus could not now that Fawkes was heading toward one Harry James Potter with
information that he needed to be aware of.

Fawkes had gradually woken up to the slavery that he had been subjected to. He had listened in
to some of the old codger's plans and decided that he would hide the loss of control from the
human who had fallen so far.

It would be a different master that he would serve, and his new master would need all the help
he could get.

Hermione thought about her earlier visitor.

She had been informed by an older Harry that her friend was being manipulated by those that he
trusted. This really boiled her blood.

Harry had given so much to these people that such actions were unconscionable. He had saved the
lives of almost every one of them at one point or another, and the idea that they were using him --
and herself -- was really making her upset.

She had begun making plans. She wanted to help get Harry out from under the control of those
people.

It had helped that apparently somewhere something had sent a messenger that had allowed them to
learn the truth. And that this messenger was apparently an older version of the boy she loved so
much had been a bonus.

She admitted to herself that the older version was just as attractive in his own way as Harry
was himself. If she was honest with herself, she would have to admit that the thought of either of
them really made her tingle in places that one didn't talk about in polite company.

After she had gotten permission to have her friend visit and sent the message off with the
Traveler, she had retired to her room to take care of her own personal needs. Her research on what
to do next would have to wait for a bit. First she would have to spend some time with the gifts her
mother had surreptitiously given her for her 15th birthday -- although she had to wait until she
had gotten home for the following Christmas break to actually receive them.

She and her mother had a close relationship, and her mother recognized that her daughter was
growing up. They discussed things that some would consider inappropriate. Hermione really
didn't have many close friends that she felt comfortable talking about these things with, and
as a result she treasured the open and honest relationship she had with her mother.

They talked about the things that Hermione had experienced in Hogwarts. Her mother had been
worried of course, but recognized that Hermione was her own person and would live her life as she
saw fit.

They had many frank discussions regardingthe different aspects to relationships and what could
be done between two willing partners. She had been embarrassed for a bit after they had discussed
alternate activities that a couple could engage in. She almost couldn't look her father in the
face after one such discussion.

To be perfectly honest, the subject of these talks excited her imagination. She was a teenage
girl with hormones. She put the "proper" persona on for her interactions with others her
age, but in fact she was very interested in the things that one could do with the right boy.

Her mother, for her birthday, had purchased some toys for her. One, which didn't require
electricity, she could take with her to Hogwarts. She had named this one "Harry" as she
had the most opportunity to play with this one. The other one, the one that she could not use at
Hogwarts as electricity didn't work as well in the presence of magic, she had named
"Potter".

She decided she needed some time with "Potter" before she continued her research.

Harry sat in his room, thinking about things, brooding for a bit. All of a sudden, he noticed
the flaming bird that arrived just in front of him. He saw the missive that it held and asked,
"A message for me?"

Fawkes shook his head and looked at him straight in the eye. He played back the conversation he
had observed in the office of the whiskered fool and the message that Dumbles had given to him when
he sent him with the letter. Only THEN did Fawkes hand him the message to look over.

Harry swore softly as he considered what Fawkes apparently wanted him to know. After Fawkes had
trilled softly and rubbed his head against Harry, he calmed down enough to ask, "Why are you
telling me? Aren't you the Headmaster's familiar?"

Fawkes let out a slightly discordant sound. He looked into Harry's eyes again and showed him
the information on the control runes that Dumbledore had used on him to trap him in his service. He
showed Harry the damage that had been done to the runes by Harry and then sent a message of
gratitude for his inadvertent aid to freeing Fawkes from the control of the manipulate old man.

Harry looked at the bird and said, "Although it was an accident, you're welcome.
Anything to interfere with him I am perfectly happy with."

Fawkes trilled softly.

"So, what should I do? I would like to warn Madam Bones, as she might be my best hope of
getting back some control. But if I sent the message with you, she might get the idea that
Dumbledore was helping her. Let me think for a moment." Fawkes waited patiently for the small
human to come to his own conclusions. The boy's face lit with a thought.

"What would you say to me writing the information to her instead of Dumbles? I'll send
it with my friend the house elf and you can drop that message in a volcano as he asked. You tell
him you did it and show him the memory and he won't know anyone else knows. How does that
sound?"

Fawkes trilled softly in agreement and flapped his wings to show his excitement.

"Ok, let me look at this again and write out the message." Harry took a piece of
parchment and wrote out the message for Amelia Bones and then read it to Fawkes. Fawkes bobbed his
head. "Okay. Here goes. Dobby!"

Dobby popped in front of Harry with a hopeful look in his eyes. "Dobby comes. Does young
master need his help?"

"Look Dobby, I am your friend. It would be perfectly acceptable to me for you to think of
me as your friend rather than your master. But to answer your question, yes. I need your help. I
also need Winky's help. Do you think you can get her to come here?"

Amelia Bones looked up to see a strange house elf in front of her holding a letter out for her
to read. Standing beside the elf was another elf, female.

She was a bit shocked to be perfectly frank. House elves normally did not allow themselves to be
seen by anyone outside of their chosen family.

She took the letter and thanked the small creature. The message shocked her just a bit.

"*Madam Bones,*

*I hope this letter finds you in good health.*

*I send this letter to warn you of an impending attack by Voldemort against your person.
Through various means, I have learned that someone has decided that you are in the way of their
plans and have taken steps to betray you to your death.*

*I find that I cannot just let this be. As one of the only sane members of the Ministry, I
feel your survival is important to the future of the wizarding world. To counter these plans, I
have asked one of the elves recently come into my service to watch out for you. She will offer her
oath as necessary that she in no way intends to harm you.*

*Winky has been ordered to stay with you invisibly until your safety is ensured. She needs
permission from you to take you away from danger if your life is threatened. She cannot help you
without this permission.*

*I know that you also worry for your niece, Susan.*

*I have told another elf, Dobby, that he must come if you or Susan call to him. Please give
him permission to move her to safety should the worst happen and you are attacked. I do not believe
she is in as much danger as yourself. But to be safe, I have told him that her safety is his
primary concern for the time being and that getting her to safety shall take precedence over any
activity I might have him engaged in at the time he might be called.*

*Dobby is a powerful elf, and has saved my life in the past, even before he came into my
service. He put one of Voldemort's inner circle, his former master Lucius Malfoy that I freed
him from, on his arse when the fool attempted to send a killing curse my way.*

*You should have no worries as to his loyalty or your safety if you agree to this.*

*I have also asked him to tell you any information that he can of as regards the ponce. Dobby
spent years in service to the man and knows of many things that he was involved in. He cannot
divulge, by the nature of house elf magic, information directly regarding Lucius from that time,
but he CAN divulge information as regards others that he has seen -- for example our favorite
Minister, Cornelius Fudge.*

*I think you might enjoy a conversation with Dobby and I know Dobby would be more than happy
to have such a talk.*

*I only ask that you keep the information on the elves to yourself. Please do not let anyone,
even those that you might think are my friends and allies, be aware that I have aided you in this
way. At some point, I will tell you why this must be. It is too long for a letter. I will say this:
Please keep information as regards myself between you, me, these elves and Gringott's as
necessary. Anyone else, even those you might feel are trustworthy or that have my best interest in
mind, must be kept in the dark as much as possible.*

*With Best Regards,*

*Harry Potter"*

The Director of Magical Law Enforcement looked at the two elves in front of her, and reflected
on the fact that Harry Potter was truly a generous person.

She settled in for a nice chat with the small creatures in front of her.



3. Chapter 3
------------

Harry spent the next day toiling away at the garden in addition to painting the fences around
the back yard. Vernon never noticed that more work than could be accounted for had been done.
Without Dobby’s help, Harry would have never completed the tasks assigned and would have been due
some “encouragement”. As it was, Vernon thought that he had well and truly cowed the freak.

When he had left for work the morning of Marge’s arrival, he had tasked the boy with ensuring
that all the final touchups were done to his satisfaction. He would inspect the results when he
arrived home after lunch, and woe betide the freak if everything wasn’t tip-top.

At 9:10, Petunia had left to gossip at a neighbor’s house -- the final opportunity before her
overbearing sister-in-law arrived. Even Petunia did not like Vernon’s sister. She instructed Harry
that he would be punished if he didn’t complete the items needed.

Harry noted that whatever Order guard was around, they never interfered with the casual abuse of
the miserable wretches that made up his blood relatives.

In a few short minutes, Harry had made his way to his room and called Dobby.

“Harry Potter Sir! What can I do for young Master?”

“Well, Dobby. I need that transportation we talked about. I am to arrive at Gringott’s Bank at
10:30, to prepare for the will reading of my godfather. I need to get to Madam Malkin’s first so
that I can make myself presentable. I need to shower and change. Can you help with the last bit of
packing? I would like to make sure all of my belongings are packed in my trunk as I do not plan on
returning.”

Dobby jumped up and down as he replied, “Dobby can do!”

Harry made his way to the shower and cleaned himself thoroughly. He put on his best (meaning
least damaged) clothes and at least made himself as presentable as possible. He decided to wear the
parts of his Hogwarts uniform that he could, before he had an idea.

He called out to Dobby. When the little elf arrived Harry asked, “Dobby, can you use magic to
adjust the size of the shirt and trousers I’m wearing to fit?”

Dobby nodded vigorously and then snapped his finger. Suddenly, the oversized items were the
proper size and fit for his much-smaller-than-a-house frame. “Is that good, Mr. Harry?”

“Brilliant, Dobby! Can you change the color of the trousers, shoes and socks to a full black and
the shirt to a bright white?” Dobby snapped his fingers again. “Excellent! Thanks, Dobby. Is this
permanent?”

Dobby shook his head. “The charms will only last for a week or until the clothes are laundered
again.” He waited for some criticism.

Harry smiled at him instead. “That will be more than sufficient. Ok. It’s almost 10. Let’s get
off to Madam Malkin’s.”

Dobby took Harry’s hand in relief. Although he knew that Harry Potter Sir was a much kinder
Master than his last one, he still unconsciously expected some punishment when things were not as
the Master expected. That Harry had taken the reply given with apparent happiness was more than the
little elf expected.

After taking his Master’s hand, Dobby snapped his finger and the two popped in to the apparition
point nearest the clothier’s shop. They made their way into the shop, as Harry had a thought.
“Dobby, can you pop over to Hermione’s and tell her that I am already in Diagon Alley? You can take
my things over to her house at the same time. I will be at Gringott’s and if she would like to show
up before the 3:30 reading, I should be available for lunch after my meeting. Also, ask her if she
would like you to bring her instead of having her parents drive her here.”

Dobby nodded his head enthusiastically and popped off to complete his Master’s request.

Madam Malkin herself helped get him into a smart robe that would be appropriate for a will
reading. At 10:15, Harry had completed his small side trip and started to make his way toward the
Bank.

Suddenly, he heard behind him, “Harry!” He turned to see his female best friend running toward
him before his vision was obscured by said friend’s hair and he also found himself unable to
breath.

Hermione had pulled back and started on her tirade. “Harry! I was so worried! I was already to
go and asked Dobby to bring me early. I hope you don’t mind. I really missed you and wanted to make
sure you were okay. Have you been eating enough? I’m so sorry to hear about the Weasleys. Is there
anything I can do to help? I really am looking forward to ....”

Harry decided that he was going to take the opportunity that his older self had suggested and he
was going to work on his own happiness. So, to shut his lovely friend up so that he could get in a
word edgewise, he decided to take a risk.

He quickly moved his face forward and planted a big kiss right on Hermione’s lips.

Hermione, for her part, was quite shocked. Almost nothing else could have broken her stream of
questions and comments so quickly. She quickly lost her train of thought as the awareness of what
was happening seeped into her brain and she was lost in the sensation of finally being kissed by
the boy she loved so much.

Harry felt the arms that were still around him tighten a bit and the lips he was kissing become
more involved in the activity. Finally he stepped back and smiled at Hermione’s gobsmacked
expression.

“Hello, love. Would you like to accompany me to my meeting?” Hermione nodded dazedly as she
began processing what just happened in her mind. Harry took her arm and gently guided her toward
Gringott’s.

Hermione’s thought processes were well and truly broken for a moment. Of all the responses she
had envisioned in seeing Harry for the first time after they had learned of what was happening
behind the scenes, that one was the one she least expected.

Harry looked over at Hermione and saw that she began to smile a dazzling smile as she processed
what had just happened. Hermione always had to think when things came unexpectedly, and apparently
her thoughts were well pleased. That would work.

Harry and Hermione entered the bank at 10:25.

He made his way over to one of the goblins at a teller window and said, "Good afternoon. My
name is Harry James Potter, and I have an appointment with Sharpclaw at 10:30. Can you please
inform him that I have arrived and am available when he is?"

The goblin looked over at the large clock and saw that the wizard was early. He also noted the
polite tone of the wizard. he nodded his head and moved off toward one of the many doors behind the
counter. He shortly returned and indicated that he should be followed.

The pair were lead to a conference room and asked to take a seat. Harry thanked the goblin and
made his way toward the table. He didn't notice the thoughtful expression on the goblin's
face.

At 10:30 exactly, an older goblin made his way into the room with a number of parchments under
his arm.

Harry, followed by Hermione, stood and bowed to the goblin. "Mr. Sharpclaw, I presume? I am
Harry James Potter and I thank you for taking the time to meet with me."

The goblin stopped for a moment and sketched a brief bow before taking his seat. "I may be
referred to as Sharpclaw, no human honorific applies. This meeting is at the request of the late
Sirius Black. I was not aware of any others that would be present." He gave a pointed look at
Hermione.

"This lady is Hermione Granger. She is my most trusted friend and advisor. I ask that she
be included in any discussions so that she might advise me as needed."

Sharpclaw looked at Harry, then to Hermione, and then back to Harry. "Very well. According
to the instructions of Mr. Black, you are to receive a medical scan for any potions, curses, charms
or monitors before we can continue. Do you accept this?"

Harry nodded his head. "That is perfectly acceptable." He looked over at Hermione for
a moment. "Sharpclaw, if she consents, can the same check be done on Ms. Granger? Any fee for
this service may be deducted from my vault."

Hermione looked at Harry. It really was a good idea. "I would consent to this. Can I ask
what the fee would be?"

Sharpclaw looked upon the two. An offer to pay fees before asked was noteworthy, and not
expected from wizards. Normally, it was tooth and claw to get wizards to pay for the services
Gringott's provided; wizards had some idea that other magical beings should serve them happily
just for the privilege of being in their lofty presence. This rankled in the goblin mindset.

"The fee for this service will be deducted from the Estate of Mr. Black as this is at his
request. Ms. Granger was mentioned in his original request, so there will be no additional fee
required. Come with me," the goblin added brusquely and moved out of the office toward another
area.

The two were lead down a set of stairs to a rough-hewn room below the bank. Several beds were
visible. Sharpclaw indicated that they should wait and made his way to another goblin in the room.
He spoke with the goblin for a few moments and then returned.

"The healers will conduct the scans. I will return when the healers' steps are
completed."

Harry replied, "Thank you, Sharpclaw." He then bowed to the short creature. Sharpclaw
hesitated a moment before bowing back and leaving the room.

"Please lie on a bed." Harry and Hermione had been approached by two different
healers. Both were human. After being assured that what happened was private and would only be
shared with the goblins, they had accepted the instructions.

Harry lay on the bed watching interestedly as the healer moved his wand over his whole body. And
then made notes on some type of chart. The healer moved his wand again over Harry's head,
paying particular attention to the scar on his forehead. Harry saw the healer's face take on a
surprised frown. "Mr. Potter, has any healer talked to you regarding the scar that you
carry?"

"No, Healer Johnson. It has never come up."

The man replied in a no-nonsense tone. "I find that surprising. Any thorough scan should
have noted some things. There seems to be a bit of magical residue built up behind it. Has this
given you any problems?"

Harry almost laughed at the man. "It has been nothing BUT a problem. I got this from
Voldemort and there seems to be some effect that happens between he and I. It is always painful
when I have confronted him and he sent visions though it to me all of last year. He also attempted
to posses me through it, before he was ejected at the conflict we had at the Ministry of
Magic."

The healer's face took on a shocked look. "That is very strange. I have not heard of
such a thing. I must recommend a curse-breaker consult with me as regards to what can be done. Do I
have permission to consult one?"

Harry thought a moment. "That would be fine. I would prefer that Mr. William Weasley not be
the curse-breaker consulted as I have issues with some of his family members and I do not wish for
there to be any conflict of interest problems."

The healer made a note. "That would be fine. I will be right back."

Harry sat up, waiting for the healer to return. He looked over at the privacy screen behind
which Hermione was being examined by a female healer, wondering if anything had been found on
her.

Shortly, the healer returned with another wizard in tow. The wizard, having gotten permission
from Harry, ran his wand over his scar while incanting in some foreign language that was not
Latin.

After the long incantation, the man and the healer moved to the other side of the room and
whispered between them for a moment before the man left and the healer came back.

"The cursebreaker, Mr. Lufkin, has recommended a cleansing ritual to be completed after
ensuring all other potions or magical controls be lifted. In our scan, it was found that you have
been the subject of 2 different loyalty potions, several tracking charms, a mild love potion, and
most surprisingly, a magical block normally placed on infants and removed by the time that one
starts Hogwarts. It is placed to prevent excessive accidental magic in babies. Normally, this type
of block uses the wizard's own magic to power the block, preventing more than half of the
magical core from being used. However, your magical core seems to be sufficiently powerful that I
find it unlikely that the block is working properly. However, removing the traces of the block is a
matter of a potion, some charms and some runes. Would you like these things taken care
of?"

Harry looked at the man. "Of course I would. Please do whatever is needed to remove these
things."

The man nodded. He went out of the room and returned with several vials and some tools. He
noticed that Hermione's healer had also left and returned with a few vials.

He took the vials and drank the potions. The healer asked him to remove his shirt and lie back
down. He did so, wondering what would happen next.

The healer drew several runes on his chest with a potion that appeared viscous. The healer waved
his wand over Harry's chest and suddenly Harry tensed in pain and a sharp sensation hit him.
The healer took on a worried look as he continued the procedure. The pain in his chest became
sufficient to cause him to let out a scream as the the incantation was completed.

Hermione, hearing the scream, jumped off the bed where she was just finished taking the potions
to counteract the loyalty and love potions that her own healer had found.

She raced around the privacy screen to see the healer standing back as Harry writhed in pain on
the bed. She attempted to rush over, only to be stopped by the healer. Tears were in her eyes as
she watched her Harry in pain.

Fawkes sat on his perch in the office where the Headmaster would normally be. The Headmaster had
left for the Burrow earlier to prepare the Weasleys for the will reading scheduled at 3:30. This
meant that he was unaware of the fact that several of the silver devices in his office were letting
off smoke, steam and began to move erratically in their operation. Fawkes was well pleased. He
decided to flame off to where the whiskered would see him gallivanting about. He wanted to give
himself plausible deniability when the manipulative one came back to the office to find his small
devices wrecked and out of operation.

Harry slowly came to to find that he was being held desperately by his beautiful best friend who
was sobbing quietly into his shoulder. He noted the healer off the other side of the room talking
with the other healer and the cursebreaker from earlier.

He turned his head and kissed the top of Hermione's hair. Her face came up and she said,
"Harry! I was so worried! Are you alright?"

The two healers and the cursebreaker approached as he answered, "I'm fine, except I
feel like I've been playing catch with a bludger. What happened?"

His healer replied, "Apparently, there was more to the block than was readily apparent.
What I thought was residue from a magical block was actually two blocks fully active. If I had
known, I would have been much more gradual in the treatment. I apologize for the unexpected
pain."

Harry waved him off. "No, it's fine really. I prefer it to be handled quickly and I can
handle pain. So, what is the verdict?"

"The two blocks have been fully removed. However, your core will take a short time to
stabilize. It might be best if we wait until another time to have the curse on your forehead
removed."

Hermione looked at the healer horrified, as Harry thought for a moment. "Is there anyway
that the curse can be removed safely today? The faster it is removed, the less effect I will have
from Voldemort."

The cursebreaker piped in, "There is one option. This is what we were discussing, and it
involves both of you. If a loved one is willing, there are runes that can be used to allow another
to help with the stabilizing of the magical core. It is not risky, per se, but it can be
painful."

Harry shook his head adamantly. "I will not allow Hermione to be subjected to that for my
sake. I will reschedule the procedure for another time."

Hermione grabbed his face and turned it toward her. "This is my choice to make, Harry. If
it will help you, I am perfectly willing to suffer a little pain for your sake. The chance to
remove V-Voldemort's influence will make you much safer and I want to, no I NEED to, do this to
help you. Please let me help you."

Harry looked at the tear stained face of his best friend and true love and finally nodded his
head at the cursebreaker. "Alright. As long as there is no chance it will harm her
permanently, I will agree to the procedure. Can it be done in time for the 3:30 will
reading?"

The cursebreaker replied, "I have told Sharphook what is happening. It is 11:30 now. I want
you two to eat lunch here, and at 12:00 we will move to a ritual chamber. The ritual will take
about 45 minutes and then you should be recovered sufficiently to finish your meeting with
Sharpclaw at 3:00. Will that work for you?"

Harry and Hermione looked at each other and then Harry nodded his head. "Okay. Let's do
this."

Harry and Hermione were lead to a chamber that was lit with torches at the points of a large
pentagram. In the center of the pentagram was a slab of stone with curious slots located in various
places on it.

The cursebreaker started explaining. "This ritual will require that you disrobe and wear
linen robes only. Linen is particularly resistant to magical effects and we can't have any
other items in the ritual. You must leave all of your clothes, jewelry, wands, and anything else in
the changing room. Do you have any questions?"

The two looked at each other and blushed for a moment before replying in the negative. They went
to the rooms off to the side indicated by the cursebreaker.

Shortly thereafter, they found themselves back in the room looking at each other with a small
amount of blushing between them. The linen shifts, not being very thick, didn't hide much of
their forms from each other. Harry found the swell of Hermione's chest most distracting, and
Hermione saw the outline of Harry's parts most intriguing.

The cursebreaker came back in to the room, distracting them from their mutual admiration. He
held a small dagger, a stone bowl, a vial, a brush, and his wand. Following the cursebreaker were
six goblins dressed in loincloths and wearing daggers at their belts.

The cursebreaker began. "I will need a small amount of blood from each of you to mix with
the potion used to draw the runes. The goblins will also be required to add a small amount of blood
to the points of the pentagram as well as a small amount for the rune-potion. They will be the
anchors of the pentagram. You, Mr. Potter, will be restrained on the slab with thick linen
restraints. This will ensure you remain in place for the ritual to be completed. Ms. Granger will
also be restrained, but only her hands as she will not experience the full brunt of what is
happening. She is only here to help provide stability for your magical core. Are there any
questions?"

Harry shook his head as did Hermione. The goblins each took daggers and cut themselves on the
palm, allowing a bit of blood to flow into the bowl. The cursebreaker gave the dagger he carried to
Hermione and she also cut her palm and allowed blood to flow until the man told her it was enough.
He then healed the cut with the episkey charm. Harry took the dagger and cut his own palm and let
blood flow into the bowl until the Mr. Lufkin told him to stop. He healed the cut with the same
charm and stirred the mixture with the dagger as he added the vial of potion that he carried.

While he was doing that, Harry took a moment to catch the attention of the patiently waiting
goblins. "My name is Harry James Potter," he began, bowing to the group of small
creatures. "I thank you for your participation in this ritual and the aid you are providing.
As you are helping me, I will aid you. Should you ever need something I can provide, all you need
do is ask."

The goblins looked at each other for a moment gobsmacked. It was completely unexpected that a
wizard would offer such an open-ended agreement to such as they, without careful limitations on
what was offered. As a group they bowed back.

One of the goblins, apparently the leader of the group, replied, "My name is Drigfang. We
thank you for your offer and the honor that you have shown us. We will individually introduce
ourselves at a later time."

Harry replied, "You are most welcome, Drigfang. I think it is more than fair to show honor
to those that give aid in exchange for honorable profit."

Once Harry laid on the slab with only a pile of linen cloth below his head next to Hermione who
had the same, the goblins moved to the points of the pentagram and placed blood at the points.
Crystals on the ceiling above the points began to glow.

The wizard took the brush and began drawing a rune on the chest of each goblin. He then moved to
the slab and drew several runes on the chest of Hermione that was visible between the sides of the
linen shift. Mr. Lufkin, Samael as he asked to be called now, then moved to Harry and drew several
runes on his chest as well.

After 10 minutes, he had completed the drawing of the runes and then stood back. Samael began
casting in a different language than he had used in the infirmary.

Suddenly Harry felt something in his chest. It was a warm feeling. He thought about it, and
realized that he felt Hermione's heartbeat beside him. It was a comfortable feeling that he was
altogether unfamiliar with.

He looked over and saw the look of awe on her face, a look that he was sure that he was
showing.

Suddenly he could feel a tendril of magic uniting them both and the residual pain from the
earlier procedure disappeared as the runes on their chests began to glow with a blue light.

Samael nodded to the goblins and they began a low chant.

The cursebreaker then began chanting in the same language he had used to perform the original
scan.

The pain in his scar began. He saw that Hermione had felt an echo of the pain, as her face took
on a slight frown.

Voldemort was lying in the bed that he was using to recuperate from the incident at the
Ministry. He was close to fully recovered according to Severus and was looking forward to taking
the next steps.

All of a sudden, a pain similar to the one he had felt at the Ministry began to permeate his
body. He called out to his current "nurse" Wormtail. "Get Severus here
now!"

As Wormtail scurried out of the room, the pain got worse and he began to scream with the agony
of it.

Harry was thrashing in his restraints as Samael continued to chant. He refused to cry out in
pain. He could feel Voldemort's pain through his link and he took savage satisfaction in
it.

Albus Dumbledore had come back into his office to a sound that he had not expected. One of his
little trinkets was actually screaming as it glowed red with heat. He looked at the other gadgets
and saw that almost all of them were no longer functioning. This was not good.

Hermione looked at Harry as he thrashed around in pain. She felt the pain as an echo on her own
forehead. She sent all of the love that she could at her best friend and hopefully future
boyfriend, hoping that this would be over soon.

All of a sudden, the pain in her own forehead became much more than an echo and Harry began to
scream as a thick green fog seemed to billow out of his forehead.

Severus Snape came into his putative Master's sick room just as Voldemort was screaming in
agony, his body apparently cramped up solidly. He watched in a mixture of horror, fascination and
satisfaction as Voldemort screamed as though under the torture of a Cruciatus Curse.

Suddenly Harry stopped screaming and fell unconscious. Samael stopped chanting and saw the soul
piece that he had detected hovering above the body of the boy-who-lived.

Sameal preformed the soul-banishing curse at the fragment and it seemed to contract in pain
before it exploded. The crystals flared briefly, absorbing the ambient magic that was released from
the destroyed fragment. He then shouted out to call the healers in to examine his charge.

Voldemort let out one more massive scream and then fell back into the bed. He was unaware of the
scrutiny from the several death eaters that had come when they heard their Master screaming.
Severus began to diagnose what the problem was while secretly hoping that whatever it was, it was
permanent.

Narcissa Malfoy, watching from the group of Voldemort's followers, also had a feeling of
satisfaction for the pain that was felt by the monster that had corrupted her husband and son.

Dumbledore watched as the tiny instrument that had glowed white-hot melted on the shelf melted
and burned a hole through the shelf. He cursed to himself as he performed a freezing charm to cool
the mess before there was a fire.

Harry gradually woke up to find that he had been moved back to the infirmary. Once again, he
felt his best friend holding him, although when he looked, she appeared to be asleep.

He looked around the room and saw that the healers and the cursebreaker were once again in
consultation with each other, apparently with Sharpclaw in the mix as well.

When they saw him look around, they hurried over.

"What happened? How is Hermione?"

"Ms. Granger is doing fine. She was exhausted after the ritual and we felt it was best to
allow her to rest while awaiting you coming back to awareness. Let me revive her.
Enervate!"

Hermione woke up looking groggy. When she became aware of her surroundings, she saw Harry
looking at her with concern and she sat up and grabbed him.

"Oh, Harry. It was awful. If I only felt an echo of the pain, I can't imagine how you
survived it directly."

"Hermione, I'm fine now. As a matter of fact, I feel great. Now, Samael, what
happened?"

"Apparently, Harry Potter, you have been the subject of a minor possession for the last 14
years. There was a fragment of the soul of Voldemort stuck behind your scar. I could handle it only
because of the ritual link between yourself and Ms. Granger here, as well as the support of the
several goblins. The residue of dark magic is now gone and your core has apparently stabilized far
beyond what I could have expected in the hour and a half since the ritual completed. It is now
3:20."

"Oh, no. We have the will reading at 3:30. I need to get ready."

Sharpclaw intervened. "The reading has been pushed back to 4:30. Those that have been named
have been notified but not told the reason and we will have time to complete our business
beforehand. I will see you at 4:00 when you have recovered sufficiently." Sharpclaw turned and
walked out of the room.

The healer handed Harry a strengthening solution and pepper-up potion. Hermione was also handed
pepper-up potion.

"Now, Mr. Potter, you should take few minutes to allow those potions to work before you
will be allowed to leave. Your possessions are located on the beds next to yours. You may use the
privacy screen across the way to dress."

"I want to thank you three for the help you have provided. As I offered the goblins, if
there is anything I can do to help you in the future, you have only to ask."

"Thank you, Mr. Potter," the male healer replied and the other two echoed. "I
will be back in approximately 20 minutes to clear you to leave."

The three left to give some privacy to their client.

Hermione looked at Harry. "So really, how are you doing?"

Harry looked at her and grinned. "Honestly, I am feeling great. I don't feel anything
from the scar anymore and I haven't felt better in a long time.

"Your scar, by the way, has considerably lessened."

"Really? I have got to see this."

"Let me get my compact from my purse." Hermione climbed out of the bed and leaned over
the items on the next bed to search her purse. Harry looked at the way the linen showed the shape
of her bum and felt a rise in unexpected places.

Hermione turned back to see Harry blushing and smiling at her at the same time and realized she
was still very visible in her current garb. She blushed as she handed over the compact.

"You're right, it's almost gone. And I have to say, linen does wonders for seeing
the good parts that can be seen." Harry wiggled his eyebrows at her.

Hermione blushed before slapping his shoulder and yelling out, "Prat!" before she
broke into giggles.

The two took turns changing back into their regular clothes before the healer returned and
caught them ogling each other.

"Mr. Potter," Sharpclaw began.

"Please, call me Harry."

"Very well, Harry. Mr. Black left specific instructions to be completed before his will
could be read. Part of those instructions included the scans and treatments you have already
received. As his primary beneficiary, I will let you know that G4000 has been charged for the
services you have already received."

"That sounds reasonable. As a matter of fact, I would ask that an additional G1000 be taken
from whatever account of mine you wish, to be split evenly between the goblins who helped in the
ritual, the cursebreaker, the two healers and yourself."

"I will take care of that shortly. And I thank you on behalf of the Gringott's
employees you mentioned. Now, there are a few more steps to be taken before the reading. First,
...."



4. Chapter 4
------------

At 2:30 in the afternoon, Albus Dumbledore sat at his desk and looked at the several broken
instruments on his shelf.

Something had happened with young Mr. Potter. Something had happened which had interrupted all
of the monitors he had which told him the status of his weapon. He had dispatched Minerva
McGonagall to Privet Drive to check on Harry Potter and the guard which was supposed to be
watching. Mundungus Fletcher was not the most reliable person in the world, but he had been
available.

He had received a missive from Gringott's informing him that the will reading for one Sirius
Black had been pushed back an hour "due to stated requisites for the will reading to take
place not being completed until that time". He didn't quite understand that; it was rare
indeed for there to be conditions set for a will to be read.

Nevertheless, Mr. Potter must be kept away from Gringott's at all cost. Ms. Granger's
attendance had already been taken care of in the same way that Mr. Potter's had, but the boy
had uncanny luck at times and he didn't want to take any chances.

Just then her heard a call from the floo. "Albus, the boy has disappeared."

Albus's only thought was: Shite!

At 4:20, the Weasleys made their way down Diagon Alley toward Gringott's for the will
reading of Sirius Black.

Arthur and Molly nodded to the several Order members which were present in the Alley, ensuring
that Harry Potter stayed away "for his own safety". Ron and Ginny chattered incessantly
about what they might be receiving.

Once inside, Molly Weasley went up to a teller and said, "We are here for the will reading
of Sirius Black". Unfortunately for her, she let a small amount of her disapproval for the
goblins show through. The goblin took one look at her, sneered, and said "Follow me"
abruptly as he moved toward a door in the bank.

The family was led to a large conference room where several witches and wizards were already
seated. The Weasleys noted that already present were Andromeda and Ted Tonks, Augusta Longbottom,
Remus Lupin, Nymphadora Tonks, Minerva McGonagall, Amelia Bones, and their sons Bill and Charlie.
They took up the seats nearest Bill and Charlie.

Soon they were joined by a sneering Severus Snape who was followed by Narcissa and Draco Malfoy.
The latter two attempted to sit at the seats nearest the head of the table but were shooed off of
these two seats by the goblin guard which stood near the three seats at the head of the table.
Draco was about to make a harsh comment to the guard, but was dragged off towards the seats next to
Severus. At 4:28, Albus Dumbledore strode in to take his seat at the foot of the table, directly
across from the center chair at the head.

At 4:29, two more people entered, not from the door nearest the Lobby, but the door nearest the
goblin offices. Everyone noted that these two were Harry and Hermione Granger. The Order members
present were surprised, but the Weasleys were shocked.

Albus had told them that Harry and Hermione were to be kept away. They wondered how they had
been informed and had arrived long before the reading. Order members had arrived by 1:30 to prevent
their attendance at the 3:30 reading. No one could have known, without checking earlier, that they
had already arrived.

The fact that the two had both been in Gringott's by 10:30 prevented interference by the
Order.

The Weasleys noted that the two sat on the two chairs flanking the head of the table and faced
directly forward with no change of expression and did not look around to make eye contact with
anyone else.

Albus Dumbledore was both livid and severely worried. Behind his grandfatherly facade, he was
wondering just how the two had out-maneuvered the Order members that were tasked with preventing
this.

At 4:30, a goblin arrived carry several parchments. Behind him were a line of goblins which
lined the walls in guard positions. These made no overt threat, but those familiar with
Gringott's knew that they would not hesitate to quell any violent interruptions.

Harry and Hermione stood and bowed to the goblin as he made his way toward the conference table.
Several of the others present followed their actions, although it was noted that Draco Malfoy and
Albus Dumbledore were two who did not, even if they stood up with all of the others.

"Please be seated. I am Sharphook, a sub-manager for Inheritance and Bequeathments at
Gringott's Bank, Main Branch, London England. You have all been called here to witness the
reading of the Last Will and Testament of Sirius Orion Black, Head of the Ancient and Most Noble
House of Black, dated 10 June of this year. Are there any questions before we begin?"

If Harry had looked around the room, he would have laughed. No one was aware that there had been
a new will submitted to Gringott's and the Malfoys were well aware that this meant a fight to
discredit the will.

Amelia Bones raised her hand. Sharpclaw nodded for her to continue. "I only have a question
as a point of Law. On 10 June of this year, Sirius Black was still classified as a fugitive from
the Ministry of Magic. Does this effect the legality of the Will?"

Sharpclaw replied in a brusque voice. "Gringott's does not recognize this as a factor
as Mr. Black, according to our records verified with the Ministry of Magic, never received a
hearing, trial or conviction for any crimes. There must be a hearing, whether the fugitive is
present or not, before the assets may be encumbered. A verified copy of a pensieve recording of a
confession under Veritaserum may be used for this as well. In order for fugitive status to affect
the disbursement of assets after a death, the person must be convicted before their passing. As a
result, there can be no injunction against the Will moving forward based upon this point of
Law."

Amelia looked surprised and a little offended. "I was not aware that Mr. Black never
received a hearing or trial. I withdraw any objections from the Department of Magical Law
Enforcement."

"Are there any other questions?" No one responded. "Very well. We will
begin."

The goblin tapped a rune on the side of the pensieve and the image of Sirius Black rose above
the bowl looking out upon the audience.

*"Hello, all. My name is Sirius Orion Black, recently departed Head of the Noble House of
Black. I hereby attest that I am of sound mind and body, and this has been verified by a certified
healer at Gringott's Bank as of the date of this recording, 10 June 1996. Should there be any
question of this, Sharpclaw has the required documents.*

*"Before we may proceed beyond this point, several items must be completed. These do not
affect inheritance, and so these things cannot be contested as I originated the paperwork when I
was still alive.*

*"Andromeda Tonks and Nymphadora Tonks (you can't hex me now) are hereby reinstated
to the Noble House of Black and they are entitled to all rights and privileges thereunto. Sharpclaw
will distribute the signed affidavit from myself making this true."*

Sharclaw tapped the rune and the image paused. "Mrs. Tonks and Ms. Tonks, do you accept the
delivery of these affidavits signed and sealed 10 June 1996 from one Sirius Orion Black?"

Andromeda was crying softly and Tonks's hair was rippling as she sat there stunned. Both
replied in the affirmative before Sharpclaw handed their affidavits over to them.

Sharpclaw tapped the rune again.

*"There. Now that's done. Welcome back to the family, Andi, and welcome to the family
for the first time, Dora.*

*"Now, before we go any further in the proceedings, I must inform you all that contrary
to popular belief, there IS a blood heir of the House of Black. As he is the primary beneficiary,
there will be no cause to contest this Will based on con sanguinity or lack thereof. Harry James
Potter, by magical blood adoption completed prior to this time is of blood descent from the House
of Black. Even without that, he is the Grandson of Dorea Black Potter and so carries the blood of
the Noble House of Black. He shall now be known as Harry James Potter-Black.*

*"Sharpclaw will distribute copies of the affidavit, signed by myself and witnessed by
Gringott's to all members of the House of Black, the current Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot,
and one for the Ministry of Magic."*

Sharpclaw tapped the rune again, and handed another set of parchments out. Copies went to
Andromeda, Narcissa, Draco, Tonks, Dumbledore, and Amelia Bones. Sharpclaw added, "Copies of
this have also been added to the vault of Bellatrix Black Lestrange."

*"Now, to get to the good parts.*

*"This portion shall contain non-conditional bequeaths*

*"Andromeda Black Tonks, you shall receive G1,000,000 in recognition that she should
never have lost her name for following her heart. In addition, 25% of the jewels and precious
stones contained in the Black Vault. Andi, Gringott's has already deposited this in a vault set
aside for you. I love you, cousin.*

*"Nymphadora Black Tonks (I totally love saying that without being hexed), you shall
receive G500,000 directly and a G25,000 dowry, held in trust until you get married. You shall have
complete control over whom you decide to wed in the future. In addition, 10% of the jewels and
precious stones in the Black Vault are yours as well.*

*"Remus John Lupin, you are my brother in all but blood. You inherit ... a key. This key
opens a vault created in your name here at Gringott's. The money in the vault is already yours
as of this date and so the Ministry cannot interfere based on those bloody werewolf regulations. In
the spirit of the Marauder's I task you with ensuring all of our descendants continue in the
noble art.*

*"Arthur and Molly Weasley, there will be more later in the conditional section, but I am
giving you G10,000 galleons. This might seem a small amount. but more will be explained
later.*

*"Ronald Weasley, G500. Once again, more will be explained later.*

*"Ginerva Weasley, G500. Again, Later.*

*"William Weasley, I like you a lot. And you no longer live at home and so you have more
expenses. I am leaving you with G5,000 directly and G5,000 set up as a trust for a Bride Price. You
know the witch you want, so go and get her.*

*"Charlie Weasley, like your brother you have made your own way. I am leaving the same as
I left to your older brother. G5,000 directly and G5,000 as a bride-price to whatever witch you
choose. Get on the ball, man.*

*"Percy Weasley, who is not here, has been left out for being a prat.*

*"Fred and George Weasley, I leave you my shares of Zonko's, G10,000 for your
business and the same setup as your brothers for another G10,000 each. And one more set of
instructions: PRANK THE WORLD!!*

*"Hermione Granger, this is only the first part. G500 AND all of the books contained in
the Black Family Library, save those that are restricted to blood relatives. Gringott's will
inspect the Library upon request and remove any curses or cursed books at your request. It's
better to get someone who knows what they are doing to handle that part. Any books that have been
'removed for safety reasons' or 'borrowed for personal use' MUST be returned within
7 days. Gringott's is charged with the delivery to a vault set up for this reason. Any books
not returned will be chased down by the goblins and a fine of G100 for EACH BOOK shall be charged
to anyone interfering with this. Sorry, Molly and Albus. You don't get to choose.*

*"Draco Malfoy. Okay, I don't like you. I don't trust you. I think you are an
arrogant ponce. However, we ARE related by blood and as of this time you are not a Death Eater,
unlike your slimy old man. I leave you with G10,000 galleons. There might be more later, but that
will come in the next section.*

*"Narcissa Black Malfoy. We used to be much more friendly before you married
aforementioned slimy git. Once again, you are blood. G10,000 galleons shall be given to you in this
portion of the will. There will be more in the next section.*

*"Bellatrix Black Lestrange. I absolutely LOATHE her. I know she isn't here, and as
such I know that she can be disqualified from any inheritance. But in the spirit of family, and the
Marauders, she shall have any cursed jewels and precious stones moved to her vault. These will be
worth far more than the minimum G10,000 due to family upon passing of the Head of House. Don't
want any invalidations due to technicalities. Nanny-nanny boo boo.*

*"Minerva McGonagall. The Marauders love you, Minnie, and we know how much you love the
quidditch cup. A trust of G100,000 shall be set up by Gringott's for the sole purpose of
outfitting the Gryffindor Quidditch team. You made a big difference in Harry's life when you
placed him on the team, and I appreciate it. The trust shall be managed by Gringott's and up to
1/2 of the principle may be used in any given year to outfit the Lions of Hogwarts. The remaining
balance shall be invested by Gringott's, with a 10% commission on profits going to the goblin
that manages this fund. Only the Head of House Gryffindor may authorize purchases and only
Gringott's may make the purchases. I trust you, Minnie, but you never know. I'd rather keep
any opportunity for future graft to a minimum. Sharpclaw will give you the parchment which contains
the specifics. A copy will be sent by Gringott's to any new Head of House Gryffindor as they
are appointed."*

Sharpclaw paused the playback to hand Minerva the details. She looked thrilled.

*"To the current Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement: I have set up an
endowment fund to outfit the Aurors of the Ministry of Magic. As of this time, G5,000,000 has been
added to this fund. Up to 1/4 of the principle may be used the first year and 1/10th the principle
each following year. This must be authorized by the Director of the DMLE personally to
Gringott's. Only two purchases per year may be made and Gringott's shall do the purchasing
with a G1,000 commission going to the goblin that does the purchasing. Gringott's shall receive
a 5% commission on the profits from the remaining portion of the fund, and the goblin that manages
it shall receive 2%. I used to be an Auror and I know how important good equipment is for survival
out there. Once again, by setting up the fund this way, I have attempted to preclude future graft.
I don't trust the Ministry of Magic to handle the money directly and I DO trust the goblins.
This is the best you are going to get. There is a stipulation that must be met. Each Auror
receiving the benefits of this fund must pick up the purchases directly and must offer magical oath
not to support Voldemort or whatever current Dark Lord is running about."*

Sharpclaw paused the recording once again and handed the paperwork to Amelia. She looked over it
with a smile on her face.

*"And last, and least, for this section, Albus Dumbledore, former Chief of the
Wizengamot, Former Supreme Mugwump of the ICW, Headmaster of Hogwarts on the run at the time of
this Will, I leave you with the following. 30 sickles and the nutter house elf Kreature. That's
it. I should probably let you know that as I speak, information on your dealings are being
delivered to the following places: the DMLE, the Daily Prophet, WWN, the Quibbler, the ICW, the
government of EVERY member nation of the ICW, and the Head of the Goblin Nation.*

*"Should anyone question why this is being done, I'm sure you will find out the
details in tomorrow's newspapers. It should prove very enlightening.*

*"As this is the end of this section, and there is no longer any need for Albus
Dumbledore's presence, you can get out now."* The image of Sirius looked positively
vicious as Sharpclaw paused it again.

Albus Dumbledore looked up in shock. "I must protest; I must be here to help advise Harry
on his inheritance. I AM his current magical guardian."

Sharpclaw hit the rune once more.

*"Sorry, Albus. I was Harry's magical guardian and I am now directing that Amelia
Bones becomes his magical guardian now. So, once again: You are not needed anymore. Bye Bye. As an
aside, it's pretty sad when the Headmaster of Hogwarts is less deserving of hearing the rest
than Draco Malfoy and Severus Snape. So get up now. If you don't, the goblins will
help."* The image of Sirius blowing a raspberry at Dumbledore was iconic and Sharpclaw once
again paused the playback.

Albus Dumbledore saw that it was pointless to protest further. Faces around the room were
gobsmacked, outside of a small few. Harry and Hermione had satisfied looks. Draco and Narcissa
Malfoy had smirks on their faces at the treatment the GREAT ALBUS DUMBLEDORE was receiving. They
might not have agreed with their cousin, but both would admit at this point that he had style.

Severus just had a blank look on his face. There was obviously more happening than he knew.

Once the room had settled down, Sharpclaw got everyone's attention back on the proceedings.
Once again, he pressed the rune on the side of the pensieve.

*"Okay. For the conditional ones. I will try to do these in the order that I feel best
provides safety for Harry Potter-Black. Once you are called to leave, I will politely ask -- well
as politely as I can -- and at that point you will be required to leave.*

*"Firstly, the Weasley's. Bill, Charlie and the wonderful twins, this doesn't
really apply to you, but I wanted you here to witness the result.*

*"Arthur, Molly, Ron and Ginny. This is the conditional portion of my Will. If you follow
the conditions forthcoming, you will receive the following: Arthur and Molly Weasley, G500,000;
Ronald Weasley, G10,000 with G10,000 as bride-price in trust, season tickets for the Chudley
Cannons for the next 10 years; Ginerva Weasley, G10,000 and G10,000 as dowry in trust. There is one
condition. You must give magical oath to Harry Potter-Black and Hermione Jane Granger separately
that you will not interfere with his life or choices and will not attempt to control them with
potion, charm or curse, and that you will not aid Albus Dumbledore in doing so either. I will
remind you that Arthur and Ginny Weasley owe Harry a life debt. I ask that he relinquishes this
debt upon receipt of the oath."*

Molly, Ron and Ginny all stood up screaming invectives at Sirius's image that was visible
above the pensieve when Sharpclaw paused it.

Finally Molly was heard above the din. "I will not sit here and allow my or my family's
motives to be called into question by an immature, irresponsible CRIMINAL." Ron and Ginny
voiced agreement with her statements and Arthur had no objection, although he didn't say
anything. Sharpclaw reached out and hit the rune again.

*"By now, you have either given oath or not. If you have, you can stay to the end. If
not, sorry -- it was a one time offer. You are now asked politely to leave. The boys mentioned
first are free to stay or go; it's up to them. Just so you know, as his magical guardian I have
cancelled en-masse all Marriage Contracts for Harry James Potter-Black. Any future contract must be
approved by Harry, in blood, after a thorough check by a certified healer at Gringott's that he
is under no control potions, spells, charms or curses."*

Sharpclaw paused the playback, and looked pointedly at the Weasley Matron. Her face, along with
her daughter's, was a study in shock. They were not really prepared for that last bit. Albus
had placed a contract on file that would automatically activate on Harry's 17th birthday or
when he came of age. Because he didn't know about it, there was no chance that he would know to
cancel it in time. However, this had now been bolloxed by Sirius and they would lose the G1,000,000
bride-price that was part of the contract.

The goblin guards started forward. Arthur took one look and began steering his wife and children
out of the room. The twins decided they would stay, while Bill and Charlie decided they might need
to help keep a lid on Ron and Ginny. Ron's face was red with fury as he was grabbed by Charlie
and led out.

"Sorry about that, mate," Fred, or was it George, said. "I really can't
believe they wouldn't give the damn oath. Do you want us to give you an oath? Cause we will if
you want."

Harry sighed and shook his head. It really was too much to ask for, he guessed, to be able to
trust the Weasleys again. At least the twins had apparently been on his side after all. "Nah,
guys. You I trust. It's the rest of them that I have a problem with. I'll have to fill you
in when I get a chance." The two twins nodded.

Sharpclaw touched the rune again to continue the playback.

*"Before we continue, Severus Snape must give oath that he will not reveal the
information regarding the next two bequeaths outside of this room without the permission of the
person involved, and to not act contrary to their interests. Otherwise, he must leave."*
Severus Snape looked over at Narcissa and Draco, and he knew that these would be the next two. It
was very Slytherin of Sirius Black to do it this way. If they agreed to whatever he said, he would
be prevented from telling the Dark Lord, even if he wanted to -- which he did not. If they refused,
they would give permission to tell the Dark Lord and their position would be more secure. He
decided to give the oath. Once he finished, the playback was continued.

*"Okay, Draco Malfoy. If you agree to the conditions following this, you will receive to
following: G500,000 galleons upon your 20th birthday or the defeat of Voldemort, whichever comes
first, in addition to what has already been given. You must not take the Dark Mark willingly and
you must not be found, under Veritaserum, to have willingly aided Voldemort. You can tell
Voldemort's lackey, your father, or the half-blood lord idiot himself if that's what it
takes that you were required to take oath not to take the Mark to receive your inheritance. Yes,
Voldemort is a half-blood. Harry can explain and show you the proof if you want at some point. You
can blame me. If you take oath to this effect, your mind will be protected from his learning of
this. If you take oath, you must act as a spy and also take oath not to willingly betray Harry
Potter-Black, Hermione Granger or their families. This is a hard and unfair choice for you to make.
But this is the real world. Wrong choices will get you killed. I'd rather my cousin Cissa not
lose her only son. I should tell you that if you refuse, I recommend to the current head that you
to be severed from the Black family. You will have one month to decide. If you refuse, the money
will go into the Auror Equipment trust. I ask that you leave the room, regardless of your choice or
current thoughts so as to protect yourself and your mother from any spy."* Draco left with
a thoughtful look on his face, although he was still sneering a bit.

*"Cousin Narcissa. If you agree to the conditions following, you will receive the
following: G1,000,000 in addition to what has already been given; 25% of the remaining jewels and
precious stones from the Black Family Vault, and protection of the Black Family for yourself, and
your son if he agrees to the offer made and he wants it. The conditions are as follows: You must
give oath that you will not encourage your son to take the Dark Mark, you will refrain in any safe
way to aid in the Death Eaters cause, and you will not willingly betray Harry Potter-Black,
Hermione Granger, or their families. You have one month to decide. If you agree, Gringott's has
instructions to aid you. If you do not take the oath, I recommend that the current Head of House
Black annul your marriage and sever your tie to the Black family. Of course, you might ask him to
annul your marriage anyway. Your choice. I now ask you to go to your son and get out of here. Once
again, you might be being watched. Good luck, Cissa."* Sharpclaw paused it again, and
Narcissa left the room with a mask of an expression. She paused before she left the room and bowed
toward Harry as her Head of House. Harry solemnly stood and bowed back. She looked at her sister in
the room with some regret and left the room.

*"Okay, now that that is taken care of. Severus Snape. We never really got along, but
that's more my fault than anyone else's. Even James wouldn't have done as many of the
pranks against you if I hadn't goaded him. We were right prats to you and I wanted to set the
apology in stone for how you were treated in school because of the Marauders."* Snape's
eyes grew wide at this. *"Now, I want your help. It isn't for me. It's to get rid of
Voldemort and to help a friend who doesn't deserve the fate that was given him. Upon the
completion of the conditions to be mentioned, I will provide am annual stipend of G10,000 for a
salary to research a cure for lycanthropy. I have set up a fund similar to the Gryffindor Quidditch
Fund (sorry, I was a Gryffindor, can't justify to myself helping the Slytherins, no offense)
for research costs, up to G20,000 a year. G20,000 a year shall go to brewing wolfsbane potion as a
charity grant. G10,000 shall go to the person or persons doing that brewing, separate from the
money for research if it is the same Potions Master. Should a cure be found, half of the remaining
funds in the trust will be given to the Potions Master who registers the cure and the other half
shall be used to provide the cure to werewolves. The conditions are as follows: You must offer oath
that you will not betray Harry Potter-Black to his death or the death of Hermione Granger or their
families. I know you are a spy and I cannot ask for the oath that was requested of Narcissa and
Draco, so I won't even try. You must also offer oath the help shield Harry Potter-Black from
the manipulations of Albus Dumbledore to the best of your ability. Once again, you can't
promise that you can stop him, only that you will try. And finally, once Voldemort is defeated, you
will live your life as you see fit. Stop being under the control of a manipulative bastard if
that's what you want. What do you say?"* Sharpclaw paused the recording.

Severus thought about it for a few minutes. There was nothing in what Black asked that he really
disagreed with. He didn't feel it was very Slytherin to perform the oath in front of the
remaining witnesses however, and so he asked, "Must I decide now, or can I have time to think
the offer over?"

Sharpclaw deferred to Harry. "You will have one month and two days to decided. I will not
force you to give that oath without knowing what decisions your godson and his mother make."
Snape nodded his head to Harry with the smallest amount of respect and swept from the room.
Sharpclaw tapped the pensieve.

*"Okay. At this point, I ask that everyone except Remus, Tonks, the twins if Harry
agrees, Amelia, Hermione, and Harry himself leave the room. Secrecy is tantamount at this point.
It's not that I don't trust you, but you have to earn Harry's trust on your own. The
people left, I will not force."*

Sharpclaw paused it again. Andromeda Tonks hugged her daughter as Minerva McGonagall made her
way to Harry. "I do now know, Mr. Potter-Black, any information as to where you are staying. I
must warn you that there will probably be an Order guard waiting for you outside. I will not make
any more statements or promises until I hear the information that was mentioned earlier. Does this
satisfy you?" Harry nodded his head and hugged his Head of House. She left the room with a
tear in her eye.

Andromeda Tonks made her way to Harry and bowed to him as her Head of House. He bowed back. He
then received a massive hug. Ted shook his hand and the two made their way out. Sharpclaw continued
with the last of the reading.

*"Okay, now for the last bit. The rest of this will include non-conditional stuff and the
last of my comments.*

*"Amelia, you have been pranked -- kind of. As part of my Last Will and Testament, I,
Sirius Orion Black, Current Head of the Noble House of Black, hereby emancipate Harry James
Potter-Black and direct that all guardianships muggle and magical shall be released. Sharpclaw will
submit the paperwork to the proper authorities and ensure that it is legal and above-board.*

*"Harry, I know that you have had a hard life. It hasn't been easy dealing with your
horrible relatives on one side and Dark Lord on the other with a manipulative old man in the
middle. You need to live your own life on your own terms. If I know you, and I think I do, I know
you will eventually beat that slimy snake and send him to Hell right where he deserves.*

*"I recommend that you tell that beautiful witch sitting nearby exactly how you feel and
stop being so noble about it. It isn't THAT attractive.*

*"Hermione, and yes you're the witch I was referring to, you need to get out of your
own head and tell the noble prat you're with exactly how you feel. Watching you two dance
around has been almost painful.*

*"Hermione, I am also leaving an additional G500,000 for you. I didn't want to let on
earlier. Let the the others know what you want them to know, but if the remaining folks don't
tell, no one will know.*

*"Harry, Remus and Tonks have already given oath to support you in your fight with
Voldemort and to help to do an end-run around Dumbledore as needed. You have to have some allies on
your side and these two will make some good ones.*

*"Everything that is left of the Noble House of Black, which is a considerable amount
even AFTER the fees that will be paid to Gringott's for doing this are enough to allow you to
do whatever you want for the rest of your life. Blow it if you want, hoard it, hide it, flaunt it.
I don't care. You already got the girl, so you don't have to waste money on that. But
spending money on a pretty witch isn't wasting money either.*

*"Hermione, don't protest. You know it will make Harry happy to spoil you. You
sensible bookworm types are all alike. I knew Lily and so I can predict how you will react. Just go
with the flow. You'll be happier, trust me.*

*"Well, this is Sirius Orion Black, Marauder Extraordinaire, signing off. Don't
grieve too much, pup. I'll be hanging with my other best friend and pranking the angels or
demons, no matter where I end up. Once a Marauder, always a Marauder. Drink a toast towards the Dog
Star for me. And, Remus, I don't want to see you up here anytime soon. Take the pink-haired
girly on a date in some nice robes. You have the money. Trust me.*

*"Love you pup. See you in a hundred years or so."*

The image of Sirius faded back into the pensieve and Harry finally grieved for the godfather he
had lost.



5. Chapter
----------

Albus Dumbledore was flabbergasted by what he had just experienced.

Sirius Orion Black had destroyed months, no ... YEARS, of his time by the instructions of his
will. As he had waited for Harry to come out of Gringott's, he had seen the Weasley family sans
the twins. He approached them and asked for a report of what had occurred.

Sirius Black, after assigning a different magical guardian, had also announced that he had
cancelled all Marriage Contracts for his now-legal son, Harry James Potter-Black. This was entirely
unacceptable. It seriously endangered the plans that he had made and the rewards that he had laid
out for this faithful followers.

In addition, according the Arthur, no Marriage Contract would be accepted without a full scan to
ensure there was no outside influence. Afterward, the Malfoys had come out of the bank, sneered in
a superior manner toward him and then left. Severus soon followed.

From his report, there were additional conditions built in to the remaining clauses of the Will.
He had been forced to give Oath to prevent disclosure. He could not find out what the conditions
were if no one was allowed to say.

In addition, there was the mater of whatever Sirius Black had passed on to all and sundry
regarding Albus's own actions. Some things could not be ALLOWED.

He would have to ensure he apprehended the boy and obliviated him before more of his grand plans
were lost.

He had detailed Alastor, Severus, and Minerva -- who had followed shortly on the heels of
Severus -- to catch the boy and, barring that, to follow discretely where he was transported to by
his *shudder* new magical guardian. He had to attempt to quash the reports that had been
delivered. He would be very busy tonight with memory charms.

At the Burrow, the scene was one of utter chaos.

The Weasleys were arguing amongst each other as to who to blame and what to do. Percy had been
called in after Bill and Charlie had left. The oldest two boys were not trusted to go along with
the plan.

Bill worked for Gringott's and they had regular checks as to charms and potions, and Charlie
was too far out of the picture regularly to be able to maintain the influence necessary.

Ginny wanted to know what could be done to ensure control of Harry Potter. She would NOT marry
some poor wizard and live her life poor.

Ron had claimed the mudblood bitch a long time ago within the family. She would be used to
advance his own position in society with her brains. At least Sirius had trusted her no more than
he trusted the Weasleys. From what they had seen, besides the books she hadn't received any
more than Ron or Ginny had. The loyalty potions should ensure she followed the lead of the Weasleys
to not take any oath.

All knew how much Harry depended on Hermione. Where Hermione went, Harry was sure to follow.

The family would have to trust in Albus and the potions that had already been delivered. Molly
made plans to make a fresh batch.

Bill and Charlie apparated in to the back room at their brothers' shop. Something was not
right with the family.

The two knew of no reason why the other members of the family would not swear to the oath that
Sirius had requested. Harry Potter was the wizarding world's best hope to defeat Voldemort and
the other members of the family were all but avoiding committing to him.

They would learn the truth. They had been raised on Gryffindor values and they would follow
them.

Andromeda was being held by her lovely husband of 23 years. Her loveable Gryffindor cousin had
died, but had taken the steps needed to give her back her name.

No matter how much she told herself she didn't care, the loss of her birth name had always
hurt. She didn't care for the money of or the pureblood ideology, but a name gave you a sense
of belonging.

She, only now, could appreciate the full pain of what it meant the be an orphan. It wasn't
the same thing, but recovering her family had highlighted the pain she had endured without one. She
had been so used to it, she hadn't even noticed.

She would do anything to protect her family now.

The goblins stood back and watched the tableau of what was happening in wake of the Last Will of
Sirius Black. This was not something they were unfamiliar with as all old Family Wills were
probated through Gringott's.

They did not find it a sign of weakness when an attendee succumbed to grief in the end. It was a
human thing, and in this one thing they did not begrudge wizards and witches this thoroughly human
response.

Goblins felt grief of course. But goblins turned their grief into a weapon to be used in
furtherance of conflict and the pursuit of profit. Humans were such strange creatures.

Amelia Bones looked on as Harry Potter -- no, Harry Potter-BLACK -- recovered from the emotional
turmoil that was the result of the Last Will of Sirius Black.

Harry was being held by, what she understood from her niece, the girl that he depended on. Her
Auror was also looking on, sitting with Remus Lupin, talking quietly. Those two made an odd pair,
if only because the man was a werewolf.

The laws in place severely restricted werewolves and if Tonks became involved, her career
advancement would be halted. Then again, with what had happened tonight, she really didn't need
to advance in pay grade, did she?

The Weasley twins looked on, wondering what was wrong with their family. The whole responses
didn't make any sense. They would have to think about it.

Amelia was anxious to talk to the young man about the letter she had received two days before.
It had given her some bit of security knowing that her Susan would be taken to safety in the event
of a catastrophe. Her own shadow she had agreed to, although she found it quite a radical idea
having an elf as a bodyguard.

She had talked over things with her own house elf and had learned some things that she had never
known. Growing up in the wizarding world, some things were not inspected closely and one of those
things was house elves.

How Harry Potter had learned of the abilities and limitations of elves and put them to an
intelligent use as a muggle-raised wizard was frankly astounding. She knew that no death eater
would even consider them a factor as she herself had never considered them a factor, and she was
NOT a blood purist.

She would bide her time and wait to learn what she needed to know.

Harry finally calmed down after several minutes of letting his grief be felt. He found himself
with his head against the chest of his best friend and he finally sat up. He quietly said his
thanks to her. She replied, just as quietly, "Anytime, love."

He cleared his throat and said to Sharpclaw, "I apologize for my emotional outburst. This
was the first moment that I have been able to confront this fully. I will not take up your time
again as regards this."

Sharpclaw moved back toward the table from his conversation with the guards. "In this
instance, no apology is necessary. Now, we have a few further items to discuss. Do you wish for
those in the room to remain in attendance?"

"Yes. I trust all of them with my life, and they need to know what I know."

"Very well. In the personal Vault of Mr. Black, it was found that there was a certified
copy of the Last Wills of your direct ancestors James Potter and Lilly Potter. These were turned
over to my department and it was noted that these were not followed. The person guilty of this is
one Albus Dumbledore. He was a witness for the Wills and as such he has not excuse for his actions.
Would you like the Wills to be read or would you like copies sent to interested parties?"

"Can I look at them please?"

Sharpclaw handed two parchments to Harry and he began to look them over. As he read, he became
more and more angry. His magic began to pulse out from him and the there was a cold wind apparent
in the room. Those watching became nervous at the display. Hermione finally ran around and threw
herself at Harry. "Harry! Calm down!"

The display of accidental magic suddenly stopped as his concentration on the Wills was broken.
"Eh, sorry. I was getting a little carried away."

Amelia interrupted, "Well, Mr. Potter-Black, obviously there are things contained in their
Wills that were upsetting. Can I review them to investigate any illegal actions?"

Harry slowly smiled. "That would be an excellent idea." He turned to Sharpclaw.
"Can you make several copies of these and certify the copies? I would like a copy, I would
like a copy to be placed in Hermione's vault with her permission, Remus needs a copy, a copy
needs to be sent to Minerva McGonagall as well as Neville Longbottom, one for Madam Bones
personally and one for the DMLE, one for Andromeda Tonks, which can be delivered by her
daughter." He thought a moment. "I would also request, although he is not named in the
Wills, that in two days time a copy be sent to Rubeus Hagrid. Also, in two days time, I would like
copies sent to Rita Skeeter at the Daily Prophet with my compliments, as well as Luna Lovegood for
the Quibbler. I will pay any fee necessary for the several additional copies."

"The fee will be 1 galleon per copy and 1 galleon for delivery for those not named in the
Wills except for the copies for the Ministry. Would you like the fee taken from your Potter vaults
or your Black vault?"

"I would ask that you take it from the Potter trust vault. I would also ask that you then
remove all gold from the Potter Trust Vault and place it in the Potter Family Vault." Hermione
looked at Harry with confusion. She had never heard that Harry had more than one vault. Little did
she know, neither had he. "I would like to report that someone other than myself has apparent
access to my Trust Vault. Molly Weasley used my vault to buy my school supplies in the last two
years and I never actually gave her my key. I do not feel confident having anyone other than
myself, and Hermione Granger, having access to that vault. Instead of removing the gold, can it be
re-keyed for a fee?"

Sharpclaw replied, "It can be done. An investigation of how the woman obtained a key shall
be done and the cost for the service will be deducted from the guilty party's assets. In
addition, penalties will be assessed for irregularities with the handling of the Last Wills of
James and Lily Potter. Would you like us to proceed?"

"I would. And I ask that all information be forwarded to Amelia Bones at the DMLE. Once
again, any fees required can be deducted from my family vault."

"Mr. Potter, I understand that you are willing to pay any reasonable fees for the services
that we perform. We will assume in the future that this is the case and we will forward records of
fees taken up to G40, allowing you to contest any fee you disagree with. Any individual fees larger
than that and any daily cumulative larger than G200 we will receive prior permission before taking.
Is this acceptable?"

"Yes."

"Very well. Copies will be available shortly. Wait here." Sharpclaw moved off toward
his office to make the copies ready. He appreciated the obvious respect that the wizard had shown
to Gringott's and his willingness to pay reasonable fees, but the extra time taken by the
constant offers began to grate on his nerves. Goblins preferred efficiency.

"Mr. Potter"

"Please, call me Harry."

"Please, in informal settings call me Amelia. Now, Harry, I would like to discuss the
letter that I received from you the day before yesterday."

Harry smiled sheepishly as the others in the room looked interested. "Umm, about that ... I
can't really say where I got the information."

Hermione asked, "What is this about?"

Harry looked to her and explained to the group as a whole. "A source close to one of my
enemies has decided to aid me in passing along information that I will need to be aware of to keep
myself and others safe. I cannot divulge the source as it would compromise his position, but I can
offer Magical Oath as the the accuracy of the information. The source, by the nature of magic,
cannot lie to me. He offered himself to my service and as a result, I can trust the
information."

Hermione looked at Harry with a suspicious look. "Is this a house elf?"

Harry laughed at her. "No, actually. It is NOT, by any stretch of the imagination, a house
elf. I won't say more at this moment, but I promise full disclosure when it is safe. I DID hire
Dobby as you know, and I hired Winky as well. Yes, Hermione love, I am paying them both, although
Winky refused more than a galleon a month. I will have to work on that. Dobby accepted a galleon a
week." He thought a moment before getting back on point. "Anyway, this source informed me
that Voldemort was being guided to attack Amelia. I have placed Winky in position to take her to
safety if Voldemort attacks. What most people don't know is that standard anti-apparition and
anti-portkey charms don't work on house elves. As a result, Amelia is much safer than she would
be otherwise. Her niece is also protected as Dobby has instructions to drop anything he's doing
to take her to safety if he is called."

Harry turned to Amelia. "Amelia, do you have a house elf?"

She nodded. "Yes."

"Can you instruct your house elf to take Dobby's place if called? It's not that I
don't want Dobby to help if needed, but I would like to make his top priority Hermione, and
then her parents, and then Susan. I figure I can take care of myself if needed. If those are safe,
Dobby can take me to safety as well afterward. I'm a bit nervous about it as I will be staying
with her for the rest of the summer and I do not wish to place her family in any more danger than
they are in right now."

Amelia thought about it. "I can agree to that. The offer of the services of the elf were
beyond what is needed anyway. Perhaps Winky can be reassigned to Susan and I can call if an elf is
needed."

Harry shook his head violently. "No! YOU are the primary target. In any fight, you will be
attacked first. The shock of your disappearing will give Susan time to call for rescue if needed,
and if it's at your home, your elf will probably anticipate the necessity first. If Voldemort
is to be defeated, the Ministry MUST have a sane and rational Head of the DMLE."

All around the room, the audience took note of Harry's passion about this subject. Tonks
turned toward her boss. "Amelia, I have to agree with him. It's good, sound tactical
thinking. It uses the resources available the most efficiently with the least likelihood of loss of
life. I'd just agree now if I were you."

She sighed. "I will agree, Harry, if you agree to have a longer meeting at some point so
that I can discuss a number of subjects that I am curious about."

"That's fine with me."

At that moment, Sharpclaw returned with the extra copies. He passed them around as requested.
"When would you like to discuss the Wills, Mr. Potter?"

"Can I contact you in a few days time to arrange for it? It's been a long day and
I'm getting knackered. I still have to settle in at Ms. Granger's house."

"That will be acceptable. I anticipate your message."

"Thank you, Sharpclaw. You have been a great aid to me and mine today. Can I ask my friend
Dobby to take me from Gringott's directly or do I need to leave the bank first?"

"Wizard apparition does not work within the Gringott's wards."

"Dobby isn't exactly a wizard. He is a house elf in my employ."

Sharpclaw looked at him for a moment; the word "friend" had thrown him. "Very
well, I will show you to the apparition point."

"Great! Thank you! Please let me make last arrangements here and I will follow you."
He turned toward Amelia. "Madam Bones. I would like to make formal request that you escort Ms.
Granger home in full view of any witnesses in front of Gringott's. I do not want it known
outside of those here and a couple of others where I am staying this summer, and so do not want to
be seen leaving with her. I also ask that you discretely inform Madam Hopkirk that an adult wizard
will be at Ms. Granger's house. I know that she tends to send warnings first without
investigating. Would that be a problem?"

"No. I can do that. When would you like to have our discussion?"

"Can I invite you to dinner sometime later this week?"

"That would be fine. I look forward to it."

"Okay. Remus, Tonks, it was good to see you. You too, diabolical duo. I will be in touch.
Please do what you can do deflect attention from Hermione's place as much as possible, should
it come up. Fred, George, please message me if there is anything I need to know from your family. I
do NOT want anyone other than yourselves and possibly Bill and Charlie -- and only in an emergency
-- to know where I can be located. I will also message you later this week as to when I can explain
everything"

The others nodded. After polite farewells, all of the people in the office moved off toward
their own path to their destinations.



6. Chapter 6
------------

Harry asked Dobby to pop him into the a secluded area on the Grangers' property instead of
inside their home. He didn't want the first impression he made to be someone who took liberties
not given.

Harry thanked Dobby and Dobby popped off to visit Susan and check for any intruders or
suspicious folks around. Harry inspected the house in front of him. It was, from appearance, a
well-appointed home in an upscale neighborhood. He seemed to remember Hermione mentioning
Crawley.

He nervously moved to the front door and hit the button.

Emma and Robert Granger were waiting for the arrival of the boy that their daughter had talked
so much about in letters over the year and in conversations about over the holidays.

Hermione had arrived home about five minutes earlier, escorted by the Director of Magical Law
Enforcement. When they had heard that, they had been worried for a moment, until she explained that
she had been present at the bank as well and had helped to get Hermione home. However, as soon as
she got her to the door, she had made excuses that she had to be off to handle some thing.
Apparently the wards that had been set up really did send other witches and wizards off quite
quickly.

The man they had met and had talked to for a time had explained that he was an alternate version
of their Hermione's Harry. He had asked for permission to set the wards and then had turned
over instructions to Hermione on how to "key people in" as necessary. He had also
explained that he had overpowered the wards and that only young Harry was sufficiently powerful to
easily affect the wards. Anyone else would require help from more than one person.

Emma had noted that Hermione seemed different than she did when she left. She apparently was a
bit tired from a long day, but Emma also noticed that her daughter seemed much more ... content
that had been. She wanted to get her alone and quiz her, but didn't have a chance before Harry
would arrive.

Suddenly, they heard the chime from someone at the front door. Hermione jumped up from her place
in the sitting room and ran to the door and threw it open.

"Harry! I was expecting you to show up inside!" Emma noticed that Hermione had hugged
Harry enthusiastically, even though she had just seen him a few minutes beforehand. This bore
watching.

"Well, about that, I haven't been here before and I didn't want to seem rude and
just pop in without permission. So I asked Dobby to get me here outside in a quiet spot."

"Well, I can see that I suppose," Hermione smiled at Harry as she drug him inside to
meet her parents. The boy looked fairly nervous. "These two are my parents, Robert and Emma
Granger. Mum, Dad, this is Harry."

Robert stood up and put his hand out, "Nice to meet you, Harry. I've heard a lot about
you."

Harry smiled weakly. "All good I hope."

"Mostly," he replied slyly and then laughed. Hermione gave him a mock glare and Emma
slapped his arm.

"Really, Robert! Be nice to the young man." She turned toward Harry and drew him into
a brief embrace. "Nice to meet you, Harry. I assure you that you shouldn't listen to this
lump; all reports we have had have been quite on the positive side."

Harry smiled back. "Thanks Mrs. Granger. I wanted to thank you for permission to stay over
for the summer. It really helps me out a lot."

"Think nothing of it, Harry. Hermione, why don't you show Harry where he will be
sleeping and then we will have dinner. The full tour after."

Hermione beamed at her parents and then took Harry up the stairs past the first floor to the
second. "Well, we're up here." If Hermione had been looking at Harry at that moment,
he would have seen a brilliant blush. "My bedroom is on this side of the hallway at the top of
the stairs. Yours is the one right next door. Loo is across the hall. Originally, they were going
to to put you in the guest bedroom on the first floor, next to the Master Bedroom. I convinced them
that you would be more comfortable up here. Was I right?" She looked at Harry hopefully.

He smiled and said, "Really, it's quite brilliant. Thanks, Hermione." He kissed
her on the cheek as he made his way inside.

He saw his trunk next to a large bed. In the room was a closet door, with a wardrobe on one side
and a chest of drawers on the other. Who needed so much space for clothes?? Beside the large bed
were bedside cabinets with a lamp on each one. There was also a desk in the room with a chair next
to it and in front of it. He decided he really liked the room. He took off his robes and laid them
on the bed. This left him in shirt, trousers and shoes. Good enough.

He went back outside to find Hermione waiting with a dreamy smile on her face, before she
snapped out of it and took him back down to meet the firing squad ... err, her father and
mother.

Hermione wasn't really worried about her mother. They were quite close and Emma knew that
Hermione was getting to the age where she would begin experimenting. Hermione's mother only
hoped that her daughter would be careful.

Robert, who wasn't as blind as his wife and daughter believed, knew that putting the boy on
the second floor, just a pebbles lob down the hall from their daughter was just asking for trouble.
But Hermione had been so hopeful and excited at the visit that he couldn't bring himself to put
his foot down. He had decided that he would take the time to get to know the boy in a friendly
manner so that his threats ... that is to say, friendly warnings ... would have more effective
results.

Robert would defer to his daughter's choices, but he wanted to make sure that Harry did as
well. Then, as long as she wasn't hurt and she was happy, Robert wouldn't cause any more
ruckus.

Dinner was a pleasant experience for Harry. The two adults and the two teenagers talked of
Hogwarts and the classes the two took, as well as the Grangers' dental practice. Hermione had
steered conversation away from controversial subjects until after dinner. Dinner had started late
as the trip to Gringott's had lasted far longer than the two had expected, and as a result it
was close to 7:30 before the meal was finished.

Hermione had then taken Harry on a tour of the house, showing him around the whole house,
beginning with the rest of the second floor. The second floor consisted of three bedrooms, the bath
for the top floor, and a storage room. Harry was admiring of the bedrooms, especially
Hermione's. If he was honest with himself, he would have admitted that he wanted to spend more
time in the room with the occupant.

The first floor had the Master Bedroom, a den which acted as an office, and what Hermione
described as her favorite room: a library. It apparently had been two smaller rooms that had been
merged together. There was even a magical section in what used to be a walk-in closet. Hermione
explained that everyone in her family loved to read, and as a result the library had been built up
over her whole childhood.

The ground floor several rooms. The sitting room was for more formal guests, such as those that
were involved with the Grangers' business i.e. important clients, government inspectors,
suppliers and those similar. The dining room was attached to this through double doors. The
backyard and the stairs to the cellar were accessed through a small hallway that led from the entry
parlor and between the two halves of ground floor. On the other side of the house was the kitchen,
and in front of that was the larger family recreation room. This was for less formal guests and
visiting family such as uncles, aunts and cousins. Hermione explained that there were a small
number of more distant ones but they lived in the colonies and on the continent and the family
didn't see them much.

When they reached the family room, Harry had found that the Hermione's parents had planted
themselves in the room, waiting for the tour to end to talk about the day.

"So, Poppet, tell us about what happened today. Why were you invited to the bank?"

Harry looked to Hermione when her dad used the nickname and he was amused to see that she was a
bit embarrassed as she said, "Dad! Not in front of my friend!" with her face in her hands
covering a blush.

Harry laughed, "Don't worry, Hermione, I won't call you that and I think it's
cute." The Grangers and Harry laughed at her mock glare that she gave Harry.

Finally, Mr. Granger got the conversation back on track. "So, as I said, what happened
today at the bank?"

Harry and Hermione looked at each other and Harry wanted to know if they knew about Sirius and
the Will Reading. Hermione saw his expression and gave him a look that explained she had told her
mother, but her father didn't know everything. Harry wanted to know if he should explain, and
Hermione indicated she would, with a resigned expression.

The Grangers watched the display of non-verbal communication with a growing sense of amazement.
Robert decided right then that if they were already that close, it probably wouldn't do to
threaten the boy too much, and Emma decided she wanted to get Hermione alone to have some girl
talk.

Finally Hermione turned toward her parents. "Well, Dad, there are a few things that I
hadn't mentioned because I was a bit distracted after learning what had happened with Harry and
I was concentrating a bit on getting him here and what. You remember my explaining how Harry's
godfather had passed away?" Her father nodded. "Well, the bank notice was the reading of
his will. I, along with a number of others, was named in the will. I left early to help Harry as he
had a number of things to do before the reading."

The two parents paused for a moment, before Emma asked Harry, "Was she helpful with what
you had to do?"

Harry gave a smile toward Hermione filled with love and gratitude before answering Emma,
"Actually, without her, I couldn't have gotten it done."

The two parents gave each other a brief look and then looked toward Harry for a further
explanation. "Well, apparently my godfather made a condition of his will being executed that I
had to have a full checkup for anything that might be affecting me negatively." The two looked
interested. "Potions, curses, charms, other types of spells." They nodded in
understanding. Harry looked briefly at Hermione and she indicated agreement. He turned back,
"At the same time, I asked that Hermione be checked as she is my closest friend, and I felt
that I had anything I didn't know about, she might as well. When we were checked, it was found
that we were under the effect of some potions. I had a couple of loyalty potions, a mild love
potion, and a few tracking charms." Harry looked to Hermione.

"A loyalty potion and also a mild love potion." The Grangers' faces took on an
offended look.

"I know, I had the same reaction. You have to understand that the Headmaster of our school
has kept me on a very tight leash. He has attempted to control where I live, what I know and when I
know it, who I can spend time with outside of school, and much more."

The Grangers' looked confused and Emma asked, "Why would he do all of that?"

Harry looked at Hermione with an apologetic look. Hermione took on a slightly confused look
which morphed into an expectant expression. Harry sighed. He explained to the Grangers,
"Hermione hasn't heard this part yet. When it happened I was too upset to talk about it,
and I was avoiding mentioning this to her as I wanted to protect her." Hermione took on a look
of fond annoyance, which was more annoyed than fond. Harry looked at her with a sheepish and scared
look, which was more scared than sheepish. Finally, his face took on a look of resignation.

"Did Hermione explain how my godfather died?"

Emma looked at Robert a moment with an expression before answering Harry with, "Well, she
explained to both of us that he had died about 10 days ago, but she didn't explain all the
details. She did tell me that he had died in a fight with the followers of that magical terrorist
that attacked you as a baby." She looked to her husband with a small, sad smile, "She
tells me more details at times because of the mother-daughter relationship. I tell tell you what
you need to know as her father, which is most of it. But sometimes I get her to tell both of us at
the same time because I want her to feel more comfortable telling you herself. We hadn't time
yet to have her explain what happened totally." Robert grabbed his wife's hand and then
leaned across the table to kiss Hermione on her forehead, letting them both know that it was okay.
Hermione gave a tremulous smile to her father and a grateful look to her mother.

"Well, in a nutshell, it was really all my fault." Harry's face had a sad look,
and Hermione began to look outraged.

"Harry James Potter! How DARE you? You did everything you knew how to do before going there
and Sirius died protecting you, just the way he would have wanted! If you're going to blame
someone, blame Voldemort! He's the one that caused all of this, NOT YOU!" Harry had a few
tears leak out and Hermione hugged him as grieved again quietly.

As she held Harry, she explained to her parents, "Voldemort, the magical terrorist I
explained before, had been sending visions to Harry all year, trying to get him to the Ministry of
Magic. He, nor I when he told me about them, understood that this is what he was trying to do.
Finally, Voldemort sent a vision to Harry that he had his godfather prisoner at the Ministry of
Magic. We tried to verify it, but that awful toad I talked about interfered at every step. Finally,
we outmaneuvered her and, after doing everything we could to check to see if it was true, Harry
decided that he was going to go and try to save him. He has a saving people thing." She smiled
fondly at the best friend that she still held in her hug. Harry smiled through his tears as he
straightened up a bit. He then took over the story. Hermione's parents noticed that she never
let go of him.

"I tried to go alone, but several people refused to let me. There were not adults that we
could go to as the toad woman, a very accurate description, had every one cowed and too afraid to
go against her. I should tell you that Hermione was the one that broke her evil rule at the school
by tricking her into the forest and we got away with the help of a giant and some centaurs. She was
brilliant." Harry gave Hermione a smile and she blushed in embarrassment and burrowed her head
into his shoulder. He then continued, "As I said, several people refused to allow me to go
alone. Hermione was one of them. Scared of flying as she is, she rode an invisible flying horse,
well invisible for her, all the way from Scotland to London to make sure that I didn't have to
face it alone. She's really one of the bravest people I know."

The Grangers, although looking nervous at the story, gave Hermione a look of pride at that last
statement.

"Anyway, when we got there, we attempted to find out where Sirius was being held. Because
of my visions, I thought it was a particular place, only we found out that I was being led around
by the nose to the Hall of Prophesy." The Grangers looked questioning. "In the magical
world, whenever there is a prophesy, a copy is sent to the Ministry of Magic. Anyway, we found that
there was a recording of a prophesy which had my name on it, in addition to Voldemort's moniker
of 'Dark Lord'. When it was pointed out to me, I grabbed it. Suddenly we were surrounded by
the followers of the nutter.

"It was a trap. A trap that I fell into, despite Hermione's attempts to stop me."
Hermione began to get annoyed again. "I know, I know, Hermione. We did try to verify it."
He turned back to her parents. "That's why I was blaming myself. Anyway, suddenly we were
surrounded. We learned that only someone named on a prophesy can physically take it from the shelf.
That was the whole reason I was being sent visions, to get me to the room to grab the recording. It
was our only bargaining chip as they didn't want it destroyed. We surprised them and fought
back. The six of us against 12 of Voldemort's finest. Somehow, we were lucky and used the
advantages we had.

"We battled our way through the Department of Mysteries, and incapacitated several.
Hermione was hurt then." He looked down at his lap. "I almost gave up right then. I
couldn't think, really. I could only go on when our friend Neville Longbottom checked and found
you were alive, although hurt badly." Hermione gave him an extra squeeze. Harry finished
explaining the battle up until Bellatrix learning that the prophesy had been destroyed.

"She was about to attack, and then several of the Headmaster's group showed up and
began attacking the remaining death eaters. Sirius was fighting the crazy woman, who happened to be
his cousin, and unfortunately he got distracted taunting her and she hit him with a spell. He fell
through the Veil of Death." Once again, Harry paused to collect himself and Hermione tightened
her hold on him. "I went kind of crazy."

"She tried to escape and I chased her. Finally I caught up with her and tried to use one of
the worst curses in the magical world -- the torture curse." Hermione took on a look of horror
although she never let go of him. "Casting that at a person lands you in wizard prison, but at
that point I didn't care. Didn't work though. She taunted me by explaining that righteous
anger doesn't work. You have to want to torture someone, you have to mean it. I didn't
quite have it in me." Hermione smiled at him with a sad smile and kissed his cheek.

Harry explained how Voldemort had shown up and then Dumbledore and how the two had fought. He
explained how Voldemort had tried to possess him and how he had been expelled from Harry. He told
of how the Minister had shown up and finally there were witnesses to what he had been saying all
year.

"Then Dumbledore sent me back to Hogwarts with a portkey. I ended up in his office, locked
in. I got upset and tried to get out. Dumbledore showed up and I was pissed. I trashed his office
and he stood there and let me. He told me how I wasn't mad enough at him. After I calmed down a
little and sat down, he explained that he knew that Voldemort was after the prophesy and that was
why he had Professor Snape trying to teach me to protect my mind. He had never explained to me to
the point why it was. As a matter of fact, he avoided me all year.

"He then explained to me that the person who heard the prophesy originally could show it,
and that he was the one that heard it. A death eater had heard the first part and that was what
sent Voldemort after me as a baby. This was the whole reason for everything, and he kept it from my
until 30 minutes after I saw my godfather killed. It didn't matter that I'd been fighting
with him pretty much my whole time since getting back into magical world at 11. Basically, it boils
down to Voldemort or me. The only one can defeat Voldemort is me, and apparently I'm supposed
to have 'the power he-knows-not'. The funny thing is that when it was spoken originally, it
could have been Neville too. But I was the one that he marked with a scar, so it was me."

"That is why the Headmaster has spent the last 14 years trying to control me."

To say the Grangers were surprised would have been an understatement. There was so much
information and it was obvious that Harry was trying to simplify it. But it did show them
Harry's character and his ability to survive in the face of awesome odds.

"Hermione, don't get upset. Mr. Granger, Mrs. Granger, I decided that I wasn't
going to get my friends involved. It was too much of a burden. I wanted them to be kept safe, and I
now knew I was the prime target for a Dark Lord." Hermione looked at him outraged. Harry
sighed. "Yes, Hermione, I know how stupid that was now." Hermione's face took a look
of fierce satisfaction.

"Anyway, imagine my surprise when I had been dumped back on Privet Drive once again,
looking forward to another two months of people keeping things from me and enduring the
'affections' of my horrible, magic-hating relatives. I was going spare, until an alternate
version of me showed up. You met him ... err, me ... older me ... okay that's just too
confusing. You met the Traveler. He delivered the notice about the Will and Hermione's letter
and offer and for the first time, things started looking up.

"Fast forward to the bank. The healers had noted some dark residue in my scar. The got a
curse-breaker who told me he could take care of it. First, the healer also cleared what he THOUGHT
was the residue of a magical block put on babies to prevent horrible accidental magic. He thought
it wasn't working properly because my magical core seemed to be just fine. Imagine our surprise
when the treatment released not one, but two fully functional magical blocks. It was much more
painful than it could have been, because the healer hadn't approached as such. After a bit of
pain and me passing out, I woke up feeling like I had gotten into a fight and my best friend was
crying on my shoulder.

"They were going to put off the procedure, but I wanted it done. Once again, Hermione is
the one that came through. The only way it could be done was to have her involved in the ritual so
that she could keep my magical core stable. I made sure that she wasn't in any danger by doing
it, and then I agreed after she told me she WAS helping me and I had no say in the matter."
Harry smiled at Hermione and Hermione gave a watery smile back. "I needed her as only someone
who loved me could help, even though she would feel a small portion of any pain I felt.

"After waking up again a bit after the ritual, I found out that I had a small piece of
Voldemort's soul stuck in my scar and that is was now gone. I don't know how it worked --
I'm sure Hermione here will research it," the Grangers laughed as Hermione blushed in
embarrassment, "anyway, I don't know how it worked, but it was gone. The Will reading was
enlightening."

Here Harry smirked a bit, and the Grangers were taken with how mischievous it looked.
"Sirius had pretty much set up the will in such a way that I now know everyone I can trust and
everyone I can't. He got me out from under Dumbledore's control legally and emancipated me.
I am now able to live wherever I want, do magic as an adult and have control over my family's
assets. It really was brilliant." He paused for a moment. "Hermione, you want to tell
them what you got?"

Hermione looked to her parents and then nervously told them, "He gave me the whole family
library in a Vault at Gringott's -- it will take 7 days to get it there -- and, well I
don't know how to say this but ... 500,000 galleons."

Her parents faces went completely slack as they processed this. Finally Robert haltingly said,
"That's ... unexpected. That's over 2,500,000 pounds."

Hermione nodded. She turned to Harry with a quizzical, although careful look. Harry nodded
sheepishly. "I don't know exactly but it's in the 8-digit range."

Hermione's face became almost as shocked as her parents had been.

"I know. Yesterday I was wearing my cousin's hand-me-downs, without a pound in my
pocket and all of my money in an apparently small trust vault at Gringott's. Today, I have over
1000 pounds in my pocket and instead of a few thousand galleons I have over 15 million. And I STILL
don't know how much is in my family vault. That's just the Black inheritance."

Finally everyone had settled down. "So, Harry, what's your plans like?"

"To be perfectly honest, Mr. Granger, I don't have a clue. All of my thoughts were on
getting me to this point. Besides needing to have a meeting with the Director of Magical Law
Enforcement and Gringott's again sometime in the next week, all my plans revolve around two
things. One is getting a good night sleep, cause I'm knackered." Everyone laughed at him,
and even he chuckled. His face then took on a more serious, although calm look.

"The other thing is to ask you for permission to court your daughter. My older self, who
had beat his Dark Lord, explained that I could win if I had the support of my friends. Apparently,
the power-he-knows-not is my ability to love. And I love your daughter. So, I'm asking now for
permission to court your daughter before I do anything else."

Emma and Robert looked at the pair. Harry had a calm resolute face although he smiled at
Hermione when he looked over and she had a nervous, hopeful look. She smiled back at him and he
looked back at them with that same sense of calm.

The two looked at each other and laughed their heads off.

Harry and Hermione looked at each other quizzically before looking back at the parents.
Hermione's face took on an irritated look, and Harry just grabbed her hand. Finally the two
calmed down.

"Sorry about that. Actually, we were about to ask when the two of you had gotten
married," Emma giggled. Harry and Hermione blushed at each other but were still confused.
"I'm sorry, but we've been sitting her for an hour listening to your story and
watching you two. Every glance you had for each other was like you were talking with your
expressions. Every little change in mood, every little mental question, every little concern; it
was like watching a couple that has been married for fifty years or more." The two took on a
sheepish look and smiled at each other and blushed again. "There! You're doing it
again!"

Mr. Granger voiced his agreement and then added, "It was funny that you were asking
permission to court her when it seems you have been dating her for five years. I'm sure that
there is more to talk over and more details to come out, but I can safely say that seeing you two I
have no objections. I will say one thing, Harry. Hurt her and I use the straps on my dental
chair." He really tried to be stern, but the laughter was still bubbling inside of him.

"Now, Harry, I can see you are quite done in. Tomorrow's Friday. Why don't you two
relax tomorrow and Saturday we can get into the rest of the details and get everything sorted. How
does that sound?"

Emma added, "Also, we can take you shopping." Hermione squealed in Harry's ear and
he became nervous. Everyone laughed at him. "Anyway, get to bed. And by the way, since you are
so close with our daughter, just call us Emma and Robert."

Harry stood as the everyone else did. Emma grabbed him in a hug reminiscent of Hermione's
hugs. "We can see you make our daughter happy, so this is me telling you that we approve. Just
no grandchildren for a few years."

Harry was a bit shocked and blushed. Hermione's face took on a look of, "I'll get
you for that" toward her mother.

"Harry, why don't you go on up. I'll be up to make sure you're comfortable in a
minute, okay?" Hermione asked him with a smile.

Harry smiled at her back. "Sure. See you in a few minutes."

He left the Grangers and walked out of the family room with Hermione watching him until the door
closed behind him. She then turned toward her parents.

"Mum, Dad, I'm just going to come out and say it now. I plan on sleeping with Harry,
just sleeping mind you, if he'll have me. There are no current plans to do anything else for
the moment, but if things do happen it's because I want it to. You can see that Harry isn't
someone to take advantage of me. Do either of you have a problem with this?" Hermione took on
a look of confidence and calm.

Emma smile at her, while Robert had a resigned look. He could have seen this coming a mile away.
He now knew that Harry wasn't the type to take advantage of their daughter, but his (formerly
little and now quite grown up) daughter seemed to be perfectly willing to take advantage of the
boy. He decided he would just let Emma do her mother thing in this and nodded his head at his
wife.

Emma said, "I can't say I didn't expect it, especially after seeing you two
tonight. We'll have to have a mother-daughter chat soon." The two hugged her and then she
left quite proudly toward Harry and her future.



7. Chapter 7
------------

Harry made his way to the bedroom that Hermione had shown him earlier. When he got there, he
called out to Dobby.

"Mr. Harry Potter calls Dobby? What can Dobby do?" If nothing else, Dobby aimed to
please.

"Hello, Dobby. I wanted to thank you for all of your help today." Dobby's eyes
started shining wetly. "I wanted you to know where I was and to tell you that either tomorrow
or Saturday I will be calling you to introduce you to Hermione's parents. Is that okay?"
Dobby nodded his head enthusiastically. "Okay. Off you go back to Winky and Susan."

Dobby popped off back to his assignment, and Harry looked around the room. He decided he needed
a shower first; it had been a strenuous day.

He picked up a towel and his personal items and made his way across the Hall. When he was
finished, he went back and began putting away the things from his trunk. Suddenly he heard the
shower from across the hall start up again and realized that Hermione probably had the same idea he
had.

He could just imagine the way she looked with the water cascading off of those pleasant swells
he had noticed beneath the linen shift, and the way her bum looked as she ... AAARGH.

It was then that he knew, good or bad, this would be a long summer.

Hermione, after informing her parents of her intention, decided to make a quick stop on the
first floor to visit the library. There was a spell that she had noticed in one of her charms books
that she wanted to review. Yes, there it was: Incantation, wand Movement. She copied the spell onto
a piece of parchment. Harry would have to cast it as he now was considered and adult and could
perform magic. She also read the notice that was at the bottom and decided she needed to make some
time to brew up the potion mentioned. She had plans for the summer now.

As she reached the second floor, she heard the shower. As she imagined Harry naked in the
shower, she wondered what would happen if she rushed her plans and showed up to share the shower.
No, she decided, they weren't quite ready for that yet. But if she had her way, it would be
very soon.

She decided that, like Harry, it had been a stressful day and a shower was a wonderful idea. She
made her way to her room and changed into a silk robe that her mother had purchased for her during
the previous holiday season.

When she finished with her shower, she made her way back to her room and decided that t-shirt
and silk shorts were sufficient for night clothes, put the folded parchment in a book, put that in
her robe pocket, and then made her way down the hall.

Harry was petting Hedwig. She had shown up as he was putting away his things. The last he had
known, she was being "taken care of" (i.e. held prisoner) at Hogwarts by order of
Dumbledore. He was exceedingly glad to see her and she apparently felt the same about him.

"Ah, girl, it's so good to see you. How did you get here? Did they let you go or did
you escape?"

Hedwig took on a look of pride as she hooted at her human. "Guess that answers that
question!" Harry laughed. He suddenly heard a knock at the door. He called out for whoever it
was to come in.

Hermione came in to see the lovely man of her dreams petting his beautiful snowy white owl.
"Harry! When did Hedwig get here?" Harry smiled at her.

"Apparently she escaped her captors and has made her way home. She was too smart to be held
against her will, weren't you girl?"

Hedwig hooted in a haughty manner and the two laughed. Hermione's face took on a thoughtful
look. "I wonder if she has any tracking charms on her. Harry, if I got the book which had the
spell, can you do it?" Harry had a thoughtful look as he nodded his head.

Hermione took off back down to the library for the spell. She got the book which she had just
had open a few minutes before and looked through a different portion. Finding what she needed, she
decided to bring the whole book up to Harry's room.

She laid the open book on the chest of drawers and had Harry read the section. He grabbed his
wand and looked it over. He then turned to Hedwig. "Okay, girl. I want to check to see if you
have any tracking charms, is that okay?" Hedwig bobbed her head, and Harry began muttering the
charm over the owl. A section of her leg shown a light blue.

"Harry, hit Hedwig with a finite." Harry did it and a disillusioned band suddenly
appeared on her leg. Hedwig, at the same time, shook her head as though clearing her mind and then
hooted angrily toward the window. Harry saw that she seemed to be irritated but it wasn't
directed at either of the two teens. It was at this point he wished that he could speak owl.

"Apparently she's upset about something." Hedwig turned toward Harry and hooted
loudly. "Was it something that that Dumbledore did?" Hedwig bobbed her head. "Was
anyone else involved?" Hedwig shook her head. "Well, he's about to get his. He'll
pay for it, girl." Hedwig bobbed her head and hooted and then moved to his shoulder and rubbed
her face against Harry's. Hermione reached out and petted the snowy-owl as Harry took the band
off of her leg. Hedwig turned her head and rubbed herself against Hermione's hand and Harry
laughed. "I guess she likes you as much as I do." Hedwig hooted and bobbed her whole
body.

"Hermione, I don't have her cage or a perch. We're going to have to take care of
that." Hermione raced down the hall again and brought back the perch she had gotten after
their first year, along with the water bowl and the bowl she had for owl treats. She had wanted a
place for Harry's owl to rest when she delivered mail. It had been upsetting that year when
Hedwig had never shown up. She was long over it, but she still had the perch and supplies.

Hermione set up the accoutrement near the window and then asked, "Hedwig, is this good
enough for you?" Hedwig bobbed her head and then flew over to the perch and drank some
water.

The two teenagers laughed as Hedwig preened on the perch. "Okay, girl. I'd like you to
take this band out somewhere and drop it in some place away from here that Dumbledore would be sure
to find it." Hedwig took the band in her claw and flew out the window.

The whiskered one had waved his stick at her and she had then started taking the letters her
human sent to be looked by the whiskered one before she was allowed to deliver them. She never
remembered it afterward. Also, she remembered how she had felt comfortable staying at the large
room with the other owls after the whiskered one had once again pointed his stick at her; she had
come out of it just a couple of hours ago.

Although she didn't understand everything, she understood that the whiskered one would be
searching for the little piece of leather, and she decided that she knew of a nice smelly place
with a metal grate that the rats crawled into while she was hunting them. It was near the summer
place where she was held prisoner with her human.

"Well, I'm too knackered to think about that more," Harry said with a huge
yawn.

"Harry," Hermione began nervously, her confidence in her plan from earlier giving way
to her insecurities, "I wanted to find out where we were with each other after what happened
today."

Harry looked at her and smiled (a bit nervous himself), "Well, considering my older self
said I should work on my own happiness, and Sirius was pretty adamant that I tell you how I feel,
how about if I just say it: Hermione, I think I like you a lot more than just a best friend, I
think I even love you. Would you be my girlfriend?" He looked at her with a hopeful
expression.

Hermione threw herself into Harry's arms and kissed him with enthusiasm. After they broke it
off for lack of air, she breathed out, "That's a yes."

"Brilliant!" Harry returned the kiss enthusiastically with one of his own. "Okay,
we'll have to talk about this tomorrow. I REALLY need to get some sleep." Harry had yawned
again.

Hermione looked at him with a hopeful look. "Do you mind if I join you? I would feel much
better near you after today. My parents already know I planned on it."

Harry blushed heavily but nodded his head as he smiled at her shyly. He made his way to his bed
as she went and closed the door to the room. She turned toward Harry seeing him watching her from
the bed. She nervously took off her robe, showing the t-shirt and shorts beneath and his face took
on a reverential look which added to her confidence. She made her way over to the bed a climbed in.
After kissing Harry briefly, she snuggled in to him.

Harry, for his part, had been a bit flabbergasted at the direction the conversation had turned.
After asking Hermione to be his girlfriend, he had expected that they would talk it about it more
the next day. When she pretty much told him she was joining him in bed, he felt his stomach flutter
a bit. When she had taken off her robe and he saw the thin covering she had, he had been
hard-pressed not to react too much. After she snuggled into him, he remembered how he had come to
earlier at Gringott's with her twice, and decided that it was a pleasant way to wake up; there
was no way he was going to object. He relaxed more and allowed the sands of Morpheus to take him as
he held the beautiful girl that had claimed his heart.

Several hours later, Dumbledore made his way into his office. He had spent the last several
hours in a futile attempt to retrieve the reports that had been sent out during his will reading.
He would have to wait and see what was said before he could counter the bad propaganda.

On top of this, he had received reports from the Order members that had waited for Harry to exit
the bank that he had not, in fact, ever left the bank. Ms. Granger had been escorted to her home by
Madam Bones, and there was no sign of the boy. Waiting until an hour after the bank had closed, the
Order had left leaving young Nymphadora to watch for a bit longer and report back. She had reported
to Minerva that no indication that Harry left the bank occurred.

Severus had apparently been called back to the side of Tom. Convincing him to continue to goad
Tom into attacking Madam Bones was a tricky prospect, but from all indications he had succeeded. He
hoped that Tom moved soon, so that he could get the boy back under his control.

He once again inspected the shelf that contained the instruments he had used to monitor and
control the boy. All but a very few had ceased working earlier in the day. As he looked at the
shelf, he noted that there was one which was still working. The tracking charm on the weapon's
familiar showed that it was out of the castle. He swore to himself as he remembered that he had
forgotten to recast the confundus charm. He looked at the instrument and noted that the boy seemed
to be once again on Privet Drive.

This could work in his favor. Obviously Madam Bones was unprepared to take him into her home and
had returned him to his relatives house. He would have to use this to get himself back into the
boy's good graces. He would offer to take him over to the Weasleys where he could once again
ensure that he was kept pliable and ignorant. Molly would ensure that he felt mothered, Arthur
would help to convince the boy that whatever was published was codswallop, Ronald would distract
him with childish pursuits, and young Ginerva would continue in her steps to seduce him and gain
control of his family's resources.

He went to bed much more confident that he could get this situation under his control.

Severus Snape supplied the restorative that he had prepared in light of what had happened
earlier in the day. As he administered the dosage to the reptilian looking form on the sickbed, he
reflected briefly on the day's events.

As much as he loathed anyone with the Potter name, he had to admit to himself that the boy was
not the easily-led cretin that he had thought him to be. He had held himself admirably at the
reading of the will for that thrice-damned mutt. He had not reacted in an overly emotional manner
when the family of red-headed menaces had refused to give their oath to support him, nor when Albus
had been ejected.

He knew that the Weasley family, at least the two parents and the the youngest, was under the
control of Albus Dumbledore. He had long followed Dumbledore as the best option to finally be rid
of the evil menace he had tied himself to as a young man in his grief. He deeply regretted his
teenage angst and had long ago wished that he had not taken up Lucius on the invitation to become a
part of the movement that would "change the face of the wizarding world".

He had learned that it was not what he had joined to experience. After several exposures to the
tender mercies of his "Master", he had realized the horrible mistake he had made. The
casual treachery of the Dark Lord's word had cemented Severus Snape's desire to do whatever
he could to see him destroyed.

The revelations at Gringott's had frankly amazed him. He had not been aware of the cunning
that Black had held. He had assumed the mutt to be a typical Gryffindor: Stupid and impulsive. That
he had somehow arranged to record an updated will, had arranged matters to reward those loyal, and
had denied support to those that were questionable was the move of a consummate Slytherin in the
truest sense of the word. He had unwillingly been impressed.

Yes, it was looking quite different for the unwilling pawn of two power-mad wizards. Events
would determine if it was different enough.

Vernon Dursley had cursed his freak of a nephew all evening.

When he had returned from picking up his sister, he saw that the work required had been
completed but the boy was not there. He had waited several hours to punish the evil spawn of hell,
but he had never returned from wherever he had gotten himself to. He had had to explain to Marge
that the boy, reprobate that he was, had begun to rebel more and that he would ensure that the
punishment fit the crime.

Marge Dursley had agreed that as the spawn of bad seed that such things weren't uncommon
although they were unfortunate. The coddling of such rebellion was the cause of so many ills in the
society and that she was confident in his ability to handle the situation. She then offered to help
supervise or deliver any punishments as Vernon's time was valuable as the bread-winner of the
family. No Nancy-boy tactics would be an acceptable response for such horrible people.

Petunia Dursley agreed with the whatever the two said, although she had a twinge of regret.
Regardless of how she felt about her nephew, he was related. She would follow her husband
regardless, but she wouldn't always agree in her own mind.

Dudley Dursley remembered those dementoid thingies from a year earlier. He wasn't the
quickest mind in the neighborhood, but he had some (very small) sense of gratitude for his freak of
a cousin's actions. He did not particularly care what his father and aunt did, he just wanted
to be kept out of it.

Emma quietly opened the door and saw the two teens lying in Harry's bed facing each other.
Apparently they were still dressed, although they were quite close. Harry had his arms protectively
about her daughter, and the look on her daughter's face, although not totally visible as it was
buried in the boy's chest, looked quite relaxed and content. Harry himself looked far more
happy in his slumber than she would have expected, given what he had apparently experienced. The
two really did look good together.

She made her way over to the bed and adjusted the comforter that was on the bed. She wanted so
much to kiss her daughter's forehead as she was wont to do, but she would not disturb the two
that had been quite obviously done-in from whatever had happened earlier. She hadn't understood
all of the explanations, but she would get details soon.

She contented herself with brushing the hair from her daughter's face so that she could see
more of her expression in her sleep, smiled at the two teens, and made her way to her husband's
company to tell him that his concerns, so far, apparently were unfounded.

Harry awoke in the middle of the night to find that he was wrapped around a very warm and very
cuddly brown-eyed beauty.

He did a mental check of his surroundings and the sensations he was feeling. First he noted that
there was a cooler breeze blowing in from the open window. It was unseasonably cool at the moment,
although there were hopes that it would warm up within a very short time.

He then took stock of the physical sensations that he was feeling. Soft bed, check. Comfortable
temperature under the coverlet, check. Firm bum pressed against his groin, ch ... oh, god was that
a check. Apparently Hermione had shifted in the night. Soft handhold in the arm that was over
Hermione ... she would kill him. When he realized what body part he had a hold up he had tensed,
and then slowly let go and began to move his hand away from that location. Suddenly he heard a
sleepy, but slightly annoyed voice which made him freeze again.

"Put that right back where it was; that was quite comfortable." He decided to listen
to the voice that spoke in the same tones as his conscience and followed instructions. That it also
followed the instructions of his teenage hormones mattered not one bit.

Hermione sighed happily and relaxed back to how she was when he had woken up. The fact that he
was wide awake and he was having certain reactions against the bum pressed up against him seemed to
not bother her at all. He finally decided to relax and just go with it. He lifted his head and
pressed a kiss against the skin below Hermione's ear and then put his head back on the pillow
as Hermione sighed happily again.

Hermione's voice came to him, not quite so sleepily, as she said, "I think this is the
best sleep I've had since we started talking again after the whole Firebolt incident in third
year."

Harry said, just as quietly, "I don't think I ever apologized enough for that. You were
right and I was a right git about it."

Hermione felt a bit of moistness in her eyes as she contemplated his words and his sincerity.
She concentrated on the happy feelings when it had been resolved rather than the pain from the
incident itself. "I understood. But thanks." She paused, "How are you
feeling?"

He thought about it for a moment. "I feel really good actually. The twinges from my scar
are gone, and I don't feel like the brooding berk that I did just a couple of days
ago."

Hermione turned over and looked at him in the dim light that was coming from the open window.
When she felt his arm withdrawing as she turned, she grabbed it before it could get away and placed
it on her hip so that his hand reached her bum. "You weren't a berk; you were the brooding
sort, though I haven't seen it since the afternoon. Did all of that make so much of a
difference?"

"Honestly?" Hermione nodded. "It made all the difference in the world. Ever since
we got that bit of Voldemort out of me, I've been much more relaxed. I do have to say, thanks
for your help in that ritual; couldn't have done it without you."

"You never have to thank me for that. I couldn't have born not doing everything I could
to help get rid of that."

"Well, it made a huge difference. Even before the actual removal, I could feel ... a
connection with you. Once he put the first runes on both of us, I could feel your heart beating.
Also, I could feel the pain that I got from the earlier step go away. It was a huge comfort to
me," Harry admitted with a blush.

Hermione looked into his eyes. "Actually, I wasn't going to say anything, but I noticed
something similar. After the Department of Mysteries, I had twinges in my chest from that curse.
They were slowly going away but when the runes were put one and he said the incantation, all of the
residual pain just ... went away." Hermione smiled up into Harry's face.

"Well, I guess we just healed each other," Harry smiled back.

"I guess we did."

"Hermione, I'm a guy and we make mistakes. In case I might forget to say it sometime, I
do love you."

At that Hermione reached up with her lips and kissed Harry with enthusiasm. After it was done,
she snuggled back down to his chest and replied, "I love you too, Harry."

The two drifted off to sleep, content with themselves and each other.

Early the next morning, Drigfang arrived at the paymaster to pick up the receipt for the payment
to his vault for the ritual the day before. He looked over the receipt and asked in Gobbledygook,
"I notice that there was an additional amount added. Can I ask for the reason, Noble
Paymaster?"

The paymaster replied, "Unknown, Valiant Warrior. You must ask Clan Elder
Sharpclaw."

"My thanks, Noble Paymaster. May your enemies' bodies fill your belly."

"May your vaults flow, Warrior."

Drigfang made his way to the office of the Clan Elder. He abased himself before the the more
senior goblin. "You may rise."

"Clan Elder, I noted the increased amount for the ritual my squad participated in. Do I
have you to thank for the beneficence?"

"In this case, no. The young walking-roast asked that all of those that participated be
suitably rewarded." The Gobbledygook word for wizard did show the goblins' attitudes
toward wizard-kind.

"Unusual, Clan Elder. I noted that he was much more polite than one hears about from those
that use wands."

"He was. He also might not be one that needs a wand." The warrior's eye-ridges
shot up. "Yes, he began to be upset in perusing a document that showed that his clan had been
thwarted by treachery. It seems he is not a one to take such. I was most impressed."

"Was there anything disagreeable with him?"

"He talks too much and spends too much time in ritual customs."

"Does he spend time chattering about nonsense?"

"That wasn't it. He continued to offer payment of fees and human gestures of respect
far beyond what was necessary. Though I do appreciate that at least it's in the effort of being
polite using whatever customs, even those of the walking-roasts, I prefer efficiency."

"Well, I thank you for your time, Clan Elder. May your young grow fat on the meat of your
enemies' bodies."

"May your enemies' bones make excellent kindling for your hearth, Valiant
Warrior."

A/N: The goblin thing was going to be an Omake. But I decided to leave it in as it fit into the
goblin culture of this AU. Not quite the same as the goblin culture of my other fics.



8. Chapter 8
------------

Harry woke again in the early morning hours. Once again, Hermione had turned over in the night.
Once again, her bum was firmly planted against his morning glory. And once again, he found his hand
had a hold of a pleasant portion of Hermione's anatomy. However, instead of tensing up as he
had the night before, he decided to revel in the sensation.

He realized that the night before was the most refreshing sleep he had gotten, probably ever.
Whether it was the result of what had happened the day before or the companionship he had had the
night before, he didn't know. But whatever it was, he knew that Hermione had been
instrumental.

Having showered the night before, Harry decided that he was clean enough to be going on with,
and he slowly left the bed to dress in the quiet morning atmosphere. After his morning absolutions
in the bathroom, he slowly made his way down to the first floor followed quietly by Crookshanks. He
listened for any movement. Sensing that no one else was about yet, he made his way down to the
kitchen on the ground floor.

He looked around and saw that one of the things in the kitchen was a clock. It was now 6:10 AM.
That meant that he had slept, about 8 hours, outside of the time that he and Hermione had woken in
the middle of the night.

He thought about it, and decided that he didn't know what time everyone awoke in the Granger
household. If Hermione's school routine was anything to go by, Hermione would be waking up
within the next half an hour or so. Then again, he couldn't assume. He decided to make his way
back up to his room, and see about a morning wakeup for the pretty girl he had shared his bed with
the night before.

Hermione woke up to the sensation of someone sitting on the bed next to her. She opened her eyes
slowly and saw Harry sitting in front of her smiling. He leaned over and kissed her on her
forehead. "Good morning."

She sighed happily and stretched a bit as she asked, "Good morning. What time is
it?"

"It's around 6:20. What time does the house normally wake up, by the way?"

Harry saw her take a moment to get her mental processes under control. "Usually around 7
o'clock. My parents' office opens at 9, so they leave around 8:15 or so. What time did you
wake up?"

"Around 6. Think your parents would appreciate breakfast?"

Hermione blushed lightly as she said, "I don't know. I tried before when I was younger,
but was told to not try it again after I made a complete disaster of it." Harry chuckled as
she smiled in embarrassment.

"Well, how about you get ready, and you can show me where everything is. I can even teach
you the tricks of the trade."

Hermione looked at Harry's expression. He seemed quite eager to get on with it, so she got
up, kissed him on the cheek and made her way back to her own room to get ready for the day.

Emma made her way down towards the first floor. Either her or Robert made breakfast while the
other one dressed. After, the one dressed did the dishes while the other one prepared. It was an
old routine which they had gotten used to over the years. Emma cooked better, while Robert tended
to be more elaborate. Both tended to cheat when Hermione was home as she often helped with the
dishes which meant that the one who was dressed got out of some of the work. Normally, they flipped
an old one-pence piece for it. It was a fun game for them.

Emma made her way toward the kitchen door, but paused as she heard voices.

"Yeah, that's it. That's what you look for to know when to turn the it."
"Like this?" "Yeah, that's just right. Now, watch this?" "Why do you
do that?" "Let's me see hot it is -- too hot and it gets burned." "That
makes sense. How is it supposed to look?"

Emma smiled at the cheerful voices coming through the door. Obviously Hermione was learning
something -- she like learning anything and everything -- and Harry was happy to teach. She shook
her head as she remembered her attempts at teaching Hermione to cook. Words sprung to mind like
"disaster", "fire-hazard", and other less pleasant ones.

Well, as breakfast seemed well in hand, she decided she'd get ready. Maybe Robert would
appreciate some company in the shower.

After a breakfast that both of the Granger parents complimented the teens on thoroughly, the two
dentists made their way out to their office. Shortly after they left, the Daily Prophet showed
up.

*DUMBLEDORE'S FAILURES AS CHIEF WARLOCK*

*It has come to this reporter's attention, that the late Sirius Black, subject of the most
massive hunt in decades by the Ministry of Magic, died recently without ever receiving a trial.
According to records obtained ....*

*HOGWARTS HEADMASTER HOODWINKS BOY-WHO-LIVED*

*Has Harry Potter been being played for a fool by the very wizard who was supposed to be
protecting him? Sources close to the Boy-Who-Lived have turned over information that shows that he
never was made aware of his true position in our society. According the reports received
....*

*ARE OUR CHILDREN BEING PROTECTED?*

*Hogwarts is supposed to be the safest place in wizarding Britain. However, according to
reliable sources, there have been several instances that prove this to be a false claim. A Defense
professor possessed by he-who-must-not-be-named, a basilisk that petrified students ....*

*TORTURE OF POTTER, OTHERS, LEFT UNCHECKED BY TEACHING STAFF*

*According to reports by several parents and students, Dolores Umbridge, Senior Undersecretary
to Minister of Magic Cornelius Fudge, spent her last year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and
Wizardry using illegal methods to torture several students, including Harry Potter. One student,
speaking on the condition of anonymity ....*

The two teens read over the stories and found that, unlike the Prophet's campaign of the
year before, actually got most of the details right. There was nothing there that was particularly
shocking, as the two had lived through most of it. But they were intrigued by the statement that
more would be coming in the following days. Harry felt absolutely no desire to defend Dumbledore in
the press. He looked forward to fanning the flames himself.

Harry and Hermione spent the morning relaxing and chatting about what was in the newspaper and a
number of other things. After lunch, the two teens worked in their summer assignments, taking
occasional breaks for a bit of snogging. Hermione decided on a new reward system which seemed to be
most effective.

The next morning, the two teens once again got out of the same bed in the early hours, getting
up to make breakfast for the adults. Harry was both anticipating and dreading the morning. The
night before, after dinner, the four residents of the house talked and made plans for Saturday.
Harry had plans to invite Amelia Bones over for dinner, as she had sent an owl asking for the
interview she had mentioned. The Granger women had convinced Harry that it was time to shop for a
new wardrobe. The gleaming eyes of both Emma and Hermione frankly scared him, no matter how much he
longed to be rid of the cast offs from his obese cousin.

Before the group left for Harrods, the morning paper arrived. This time, all four sat around
reading the news. Once again, the headlines were very interesting. One of them made Harry think
back to the meeting with Sharpclaw before the will reading.

*Sharpclaw, after thanking Harry for his generosity, continued with the instructions left by
Sirius Black. "Now, there are a few more steps to be taken before the reading. First, after
having a medical check and removing all potions and monitoring charms, I have been directed to read
you the following:"*

*Hello, pup. You're probably either confused or upset right about now. I know you
haven't been exactly told everything that's been happening, but the nature of the checks
should have clued you in.*

*After spending several months with the Order of the Phoenix, several things that I learned
and was previously not aware of started to make sense. I wondered at the stories of what you had
been through since you were a kid. It got me to thinking about what happened after Peter betrayed
your family and the Marauders; how I got chucked into Azkaban without a trial; how you ended up
with your magic-hating muggle relatives; how, despite the wards at Hogwarts you ended up with
several Defense teachers trying to kill you. After working out in my mind everything that happened,
I came to one conclusion:*

*Dumbledore is using you.*

*For some reason, Dumbledore has made your life far more miserable than it should have been. I
remembered how eager you were to move in with me and decided that there were things about how you
grew up that were just wrong. I noticed how you never wanted to tell stories about what you did as
a child and sussed out that it wasn't the most pleasant environment.*

*After talking to Moony about what you had experienced at Hogwarts, I decided to scout out
what I could learn from the other Order members. Tonks told me of how she was forbidden from
contacting her boss when she mentioned seeing things at your summer residence. Sorry to say, I
played along a bit too much with Dumbledore's decisions. At first, it was because I thought
that he was trustworthy, and then I did because I didn't want to end up obliviated or worse if
I started questioning too loudly.*

*At various times, I had occasion to chat with the Weasleys. I have to say, Molly and Arthur
seemed a bit too much in Dumbledore's camp. I noticed how they never mentioned some of the more
unpleasant facts that I learned from chatting with the twins. When I mentioned that I had heard
they had to rescue you from behind bars during the summer after first year, Molly scoffed at the
"exaggeration" and Arthur laughed it off as the twins' prankster nature. I acted as
though I accepted what she said, but a Marauder learns to play with a poker face. Never let them
see what you know.*

*At Christmas time, you might have noticed that I seemed rather eager for you to be at
Grimmauld with me, although I probably came off as a nutter yearning to recapture my youth with my
best friend. That was deliberate. Yes, I would have much preferred you being at Grimmauld with me,
but mostly because I began not trusting that you wouldn't be more manipulated when you went
back to Hogwarts with the youngest spawn of Molly's.*

*I had chance to chat with the two said spawn, and I noticed that Ginny couldn't help
herself and talked about how she was looking forward to dating you after she showed you that she
was a girl by dating other boys in front of you. To her, you're a knight-in-shining armor which
should be under the willing command of a princess such as herself. The romantic nature of her
speech seemed feigned, but the "under the command" portion seemed anything but. Truth be
told, she scared me a bit on you behalf.*

*The red-headed menace that called himself your best friend seemed quite jealous of the
attention you receive, although he tried to hide the fact. When Hermione's name came up, the
boy scoffed at the relationship that I saw between you and Hermione and basically said that she
would end up as his. Once again, I was scared on behalf of both you and Hermione.*

*Finally, I ducked the house on a day where all of the other Order members were distracted
with other things, and decided that I would prepare for the worst. I planned on talking to you
about these things during the summer, but realized that things happen. Since you're hearing
this, things HAVE happened. Don't grieve too much. If I went out the way I want to, I was
protecting you and Hermione and nothing would please me more except spending more time with you
personally. I'm sorry it's not possible, but I think you will be able to move on with your
life knowing that, though it grieves me to not be there for you, I know that you can find happiness
with the pretty girl who seems so important to you.*

*Before my will can be read, the following must be met: 1) You have to have been checked and
cleared by a Gringott's certified healer for any potions used to control you. Hermione can be
checked after the will, but it must be scheduled already and she has to agree to it. If she's
with you, it's already been done. 2) This must be read to you at Gringott's. 3) Sharpclaw
will perform a blood adoption ritual. He has the vial of my blood that's needed. In order for
you to be properly protected, this must be done. If it's not, the Black estate will fall under
the control of Lucius Malfoy and that must be avoided at all cost. I'm not trying to take the
place of your parents -- I'm just making you my son as well, in addition to already being the
son of my heart.*

*Now, you will learn a number of things I have planned with the Will, but trust me: I think
you'll love it. When it's done, you'll know who you can trust. If the Weasley's
prove trustworthy -- and you'll know by the end of it -- the instructions I have for Sharpclaw
will take it into account. If they prove untrustworthy, just sit back and watch the show. Once a
Marauder, always a Marauder.*

*Now, one more thing: I had a copy of your parents' wills in my vault for backup. The one
that they had mysteriously disappeared and I have since learned that Dumbledore had obtained it as
the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot. So, as I know it hasn't been followed, we know who is to
blame for it. After my Will, you will get a copy. I leave it to you to use the information as you
see fit. It's not my place as it's not my Will. But my Will will set it up. Trust me.
You'll like it.*

*Okay, the next bit is coming in the reading.*

*I solemnly swear I am up to no good. And I love you, pup.*

*Your soon-to-be blood-father,*

*Sirius*

Harry thought about what Sirius had said as he read the headlines:

*POTTER RELATIVES KEPT HIM BEHIND BARS: What the Weasleys Knew About and Never
Reported*

*Per reports by two of the children of Arthur Weasley, Harry Potter was rescued from behind
bars after his first year at Hogwarts. In August of 1992 ....*

*HARRY POTTER: SAVIOUR OR PAWN?*

*It is well known that the Boy-Who-Lived befriended Ronald Weasley on the train to Hogwarts
upon his return to the magical world. What isn't known, apparently, is why. According to
....*

*WHY SIRIUS BLACK ESCAPED AZKABAN: D***eath Eater Lived in Hiding at Ministry Worker's
Home**

*In a tell all letter from beyond the grave, Sirius Black explained in detail the impetus for
his famous breakout from Azkaban Prison. In 1993, Cornelius Fudge visited Azkaban for an annual
review. Black, a then-prisoner ....*

*DEATH EATER FOOLED DUMBLEDORE FOR ENTIRE YEAR, Polyjuice Stumps Supreme Mugwump*

*According to several interviews, one of Albus Dumbledore's oldest friends is Alastor
Moody, famed former-Auror. Moody was hired by Dumbledore in 1994 to take up the oft-vacant post of
Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor at Hogwarts School ....*

A/N: Sorry of this seemed a bit forced. My must got away from me for a bit, but I refuse to wait
too long between updates. I am trying to get away from recounting EVERY detail of EVERY day - makes
for a very slow story. So, I decided to at least get the ball rolling on the Headlines that I
promised and set up what happens with Amelia and the Weasleys. It isn't HHr, but it's
necessary for the plot. The next update will be longer and have much more detail that is
relevant.



9. Chapter 9 with a little zest at the end
------------------------------------------

Hermione and Emma charged into Harrods with enthusiasm, Harry and Robert following much more
sedately. The two men had found a camaraderie in their shared reticence in shopping. The more
enthusiastic the women became, the more nervous the men. After Harry had handed Emma most of the
thousand pounds he had brought from Gringott's, the two shared a nervous look as the two girls
had marched toward the car chattering away about shirts and shorts.

When Harry had been called into the section containing men's underclothes, Robert saluted
Harry briefly in the way that soldiers were sent off by comrades into a suicide mission. Somehow,
when Robert himself had been called by Emma into the same section while Hermione dragged Harry
toward shoes, Harry had returned the brief salute with the same sense of impending doom.

When Hermione had commented to Emma about shrinking charms, Harry had naively volunteered to
follow Hermione's instructions as he could now legally perform magic. He soon realized that
making purchases more portable meant that there was far more room for more shopping. After a quiet
apology to Robert for his gaffe, Robert had just patted his arm with sympathy.

After a short lunch, and a trip for swimwear for Harry, Hermione and Emma had made their way
into women's lingerie. Robert and Harry had taken one look at each other and then claimed a
desire to go and shop in a different section. Robert didn't really want to see his daughter
buying unmentionables to impress her boyfriend. Harry was far too embarrassed to stay and offer
commentary on the different pieces, after already having been embarrassed by the two women forcing
him to model swimwear.

The two women had looked at the expressions on the men's faces and smirked at each other for
a moment. They agreed to meet them an hour later in front of the section for men's suits.
Robert led Harry toward the elevators, ostensibly to take Harry to the Sports section on the fifth
floor. In actuality, he took him to the bar on the fourth floor. When the bartender made a comment
about his age, Robert explained that he was emancipated and had just spent several hours getting a
wardrobe under the ministration of his girlfriend and her mother. The bartender looked at him
sympathetically and served the beer without another comment.

The two commiserated over a couple of cold ones before taking breath mints and making their way
back to where the two women were to meet up with them.

Later, Harry finally realized why one would need so much wardrobe space.

Harry, after napping in the car on the way back from shopping, had calmly explained that he
would cook the meal for the evening as Madam Bones was his guest. Emma, after a silent conversation
with Hermione, agreed and offered to unpack all of the shopping. Hermione had gleefully stated that
she would be collecting all of his old clothes for a bonfire later that night in the barbecue pit
in the back yard.

Robert had offered to be the kitchen boy and help with the menial tasks of preparing the dinner:
Beef Wellington. It was an hour and a half job to do it right, but Harry decided that he wanted to
impress everyone as cooking was something that he was quite familiar with. After cheating a bit by
getting Dobby to bring the pastry, the rest of the preparation went by fairly smoothly. Robert
promised to keep the secret of what was being prepared.

After the meal had been cooked, including preparing a light beef broth soup as a starter,
preparing the added vegetables to go with the main course, the salad preparation, and making bread
and butter pudding for afters, Robert watched the kitchen while Harry went and cleaned up. The two
hade quite a time preventing the nosy female members of the household from finding out. Harry had
distracted Hermione briefly while the meal was in the over asking for the notes on how to update
the wards to allow access to certain people, but that was good only for a short respite.

Emma and Hermione had a quite enjoyable time chatting about male/female relations and
Harry/Hermione specifically. After meeting him, Emma was fully supportive of Hermione's plans
for summer and the two women giggled quite a bit while discussing things.

At 6:55, the door chime sounded, and Harry welcomed Amelia into the home. The next hour was
spent chatting over the different courses, served by Winky at her insistence. Hermione began to
object, but after Harry explained why Winky was around, Hermione just accepted it.

After the final course, Amelia sat back and said, "Harry, that was one of the best meals I
have had in a long time." Comments from all of the others mirrored her sentiment. "Now, I
would like to speak to you of some of the things that were mentioned and some of the things that
weren't on Thursday last at Gringott's. Would you like to discuss it in private?"

Harry shook his head. "No, anything that has to do with me Hermione here will learn about
either right then or shortly thereafter, as she is also involved as far as I, and she, are
concerned." Hermione beamed at this. "And, since Hermione is involved, her parents have
to be made aware of everything as well." Said parents smiled at the young man. "So, as
far as I'm concerned, anything said to me can be said in front of everyone here. Let me just
clean up and bit and ...."

Suddenly the used dishes were popping away left and right shortly all that was left was port and
a tea service. "Well, as I was saying, why don't we get straight into it. And, THANK YOU
WINKY!" Harry called off toward the kitchen. The others around the table chuckled.

"Now, Harry, have you been reading the Prophet from the last two days?" Harry nodded.
"Can you substantiate any of the comments made?" Harry nodded again. "Would you be
willing to testify in any criminal proceedings?" Harry looked to Hermione for a moment and
then turned back and nodded once more. "Alright then, the first things I want to ask about is
the Defense instructors. What can you tell me about ...."

For the next forty five minutes, Harry talked about his experiences with Quirrell, Lockhart,
Crouch Jr., and Umbridge. He mentioned that Remus was the only one he had no problem with. When
Harry showed Amelia the scar on his hand saying "I Must Not Tell Lies", she was very
nearly apoplectic in her comments. The Grangers were right along with her. After settling down,
Amelia asked her next question.

"During your second year, it was rumored that the Chamber of Secrets was opened. The
Prophet made mention of a basilisk. Can you expound upon that?"

What followed was another 20 minutes explaining what had happened and the speculations around
the castle. Hagrid's arrest was met with disgust, Dobby's part was met with a bit of humor,
Hermione's petrification caused her parents to reach for her and then a call for Winky to bring
the scotch from the den.

Finally Harry told of the sequence of events, beginning with the message about Ginny Weasley
being taken. Lockhart's accident did cause a few chuckles -- the idiot deserved what had
happened. The conversation with the 16-year old Riddle was met with a bit of shock and the fight
engendered a bit of trepidation. When Lucius Malfoy was mentioned, Amelia was once again stone
faced, although Dobby's revenge broke the mood slightly.

Finally, Amelia pulled out a small metal bowl which looked like a smaller version of the
pensieve in the Headmaster's office. "This is a solicitor's pensieve. It is much
smaller than a normal one and can only hold one memory at a time. Another thing is that it will
copy a memory, allowing a person to retain the memory for testimony while the memory is shown. Can
you put the memory of the encounter in the bowl?"

Harry got a bit nervous at this. He had downplayed the size of the snake, and he knew Hermione
would be a bit upset. The adults paused for a moment, wondering if he was hiding something about
the encounter. He didn't seem like the type to play up what he had done, so they all wondered
what the problem was. Hermione, however, knew that whatever he was nervous about meant that if
Harry was nervous, he had left something out. She took on a slightly stern and expectant look and
Harry sighed and agreed.

Amelia tapped the pensive with her wand, and the memory began playing. It started with Harry and
Ron forcing Lockhart down the shaft in front of them. The visual of his threats was far more
upsetting than the humorous story Harry had told. If the cave-in hadn't occurred, the adults
would have cheered for the poetic justice of the backfire when he had obliviated himself.

As the scene played out, Hermione noticed Harry becoming more and more nervous. The large
snakeskin had made her nervous as well -- Harry hadn't really mentioned that the snake was so
big. She failed to notice how old the snakeskin was as she was looking at Harry when it came up in
the memory.

The finding of Ginny and the confrontation with Riddle was enlightening to Amelia. She
hadn't known all of the details of Voldemort's identity. It was something that was
speculated upon at the Ministry when it came up, but no one really thought about it.

When the image of Riddle began calling the snake, Harry mentally prepared for it. The image of
the shadow of Fawkes ripping out the eyes of the basilisk caused him to close his eyes and start
his countdown. 5 ... 4 ... 3 ... 2 ... 1 ...

Suddenly there was a shriek, very close to his ear. "HARRY JAMES POTTER! YOU NEVER SAID IT
WAS THAT BIG!" Harry flinched back a bit while looking at Hermione. She was obviously very
upset at that moment and Harry was nervous about payback for keeping it from her. However, when he
looked in her eyes, he saw the terror hiding behind her anger and he reached out and pulled her
into a hug. As he did this, he looked up toward the adults. Amelia had paused the playback for a
moment and all three adults were looking between him and the image of a 12-year old boy facing a
60-foot basilisk. Finally, Amelia almost diffidently tapped the bowl to continue the playback.

The scene played out with the audience in complete silence. When it was over, Harry excused
himself and took Hermione into the hallway to calm her down. After a few minutes, Harry led
Hermione back to the gathering and sat back down. Harry waited for the comments.

Amelia looked at the teenager. Finally, she said, "I think if I tried to look at every
memory tonight, we'd be here until midnight or later. How about you just answer the questions
for now and I'll ask for copies of the memories to look at later."

Harry nodded his head. "Probably a good idea."

"Now, I have to ask about the escape of Sirius Black."

Harry spent the next hour telling all about the rest of his Hogwarts experiences. Amelia asked
for copied of different things, bottling each one up separately and labeling them after. Memories
included the rescue from the Dursleys, the confrontation in the Shrieking Shack, the experience at
the Quidditch Cup, the final task of the Triwizard Tournament, Harry's first detention, the
confrontation with Malfoy which caused him to get suspended from the team, the attack upon Arthur
Weasley, the confrontations the night of the Ministry battle, the prophesy, and what had been
learned at Gringott's.

When all was said and done, Amelia thanked him for such a complete look at the truth behind the
rumors and speculation. She mentioned possibly having questions after she viewed all of the
memories and he assured her he would answer anything she wanted.

Before she left, Harry added one more thing. "I have some intelligence that I forgot to put
in my letter to you."

"Go on."

"Voldemort has his followers at the Ministry pulling resources away from Azkaban. He has
plans for another mass breakout. I humbly suggest investigating the possibility. Even if what I
learned was wrong, there would be nothing wrong with checking it out."

She looked at him one more time and nodded her head. She thanked the Grangers for having her,
and Harry for the fine dinner. She apparated out with Winky popping off after her once she had
thanked him for letting her help with dinner.

Harry bade good night to the Granger family and made his way up to his room. It had been a very
long day. After saying goodnight to her parents, Hermione followed him.

Amelia reflected on the dinner and conversation she had just been a party to.

Harry Potter had just proven that he was even awe inspiring than rumors had made him out to be.
She remembered the stories from the Daily Prophet from the last year and reflected on the smear
campaign he had been subject to. Between Rita Skeeter, Cornelius Fudge, Dolores Umbridge, Albus
Dumbledore or a whole host of others, she was now firmly of the opinion that their best chance at
defeating Voldemort lay with a 15-year old Hogwarts student. And that made her nervous.

It was time for the Ministry of Magic to do its job. And her job right now was investigating the
claims made by Harry about Voldemort infiltrating the Ministry. He had given enough information
that it actually could be followed up on.

Fawkes sat on his now-mundane perch and thoroughly enjoyed the spectacle that the office of the
Headmaster had become.

Twice now, Dumbledore had attempted to send a charmed letter to his new master. Both times,
Fawkes had flamed out, waited about 5 minutes and flamed back in with the letter undelivered,
acting confused and lost. Both times Dumbledore sighed and indicated some annoyance at his new
master's former guardian.

The letter to his master's mate had been returned with the information that she had no
information on the boy's whereabouts.

The red-headed humans had provided much of the entertainment for the red and gold phoenix. They
had come to the whiskered one's office making loud complaints and apparently very upset about
his new master's deceased guardian. The plans that had been made had been thoroughly trounced
by his new master.

Fawkes had hidden his head under his wing as though annoyed at the loud noises, but in actuality
fighting to not trill in amusement at the spectacle

Voldemort was lying in his sick bed.

After two more days of unconsciousness after whatever Potter had done, he finally was aware
enough to get a report on what was happening with his followers. The progress at Azkaban was
proceeding nicely. Within two weeks, Azkaban should be sufficiently weakened for a raid to be
successful without too much loss of life.

In actual fact, he did not care about whether his followers lived or died -- the only thing he
cared about was the power he could demonstrate by razing the place.

Reports from Severus on the Order of the Phoenix were promising. Apparently, Dumbledore and his
golden boy were at odds. This gave him satisfaction as it was always an advantageous thing when
your enemies were at odds with each other. He charged his most intelligent follower to research
ways to foment more discord between them.

He did notice that he no longer felt an echo from Potter. As he tried to push out with his mind,
he felt no response whatsoever from the link that he had shared for the last 15 years. He was of
two opinions on this. It would make it much harder to manipulate and terrorize the boy, but at the
same time he would not be subject to any negative reactions if Potter found some way to use the
link against him. There was always some bad with the good, he reflected.

After a while, though, he also noticed that the small amount of power he seemed to get from the
link was also lost. In his arrogance, this factor he considered unimportant in the long run. Once
the boy was dead, he would have lost the power trickle anyway. As long as the wizarding world was
cowering in fear of him, he could research any number of things which would increase his power.

However, it might be to his advantage to find out why the link was gone.

The Weasleys were reeling from the stories that had come out in the Daily Prophet. Arthur was
worried about how this would affect his position in the Ministry. He wasn't too worried as the
main focus of the Minister of Magic was shoring up support. As he was a "small player"
attacking him on Harry Potter's behalf wouldn't increase his support from the pureblood
side, and there were far too many larger issues concentrating on one family would be considered a
waste of his time in the eyes of the general public. They would have to just hunker down and ride
out the storm.

Molly, however, was incensed. Anything which made her look bad was something that could not be
accepted. She had sent a howler off to the Prophet demanding an apology for attacking their good
name. She also was almost done with the next batch of potions. She would have to make sure they
were sent to "the poor boy" as soon as possible. She couldn't give him a full course,
as the potions had to be undetectable by the next summer, but by that time her daughter would have
had the opportunity to convince him that she was the only girl for him. In addition, she needed to
send some to the know-it-all which was far too close to Harry Potter for her liking. Luckily, there
was no mention of her being controlled by potions in Sirius Black's will.

Ron Weasley was imagining having Hermione as his sex slave. His mother and Dumbledore had
promised, and nothing would stand in his way of beating Harry Potter at something.

Ginny Weasley, however, was making contingency plans. She knew that her family and Dumbledore
wanted Harry controlled, and if she ended up wealthy because of that it was fine in her book. At
the same time, she knew that without the control of potions or spells, there was a good chance that
that avenue was lost. Therefore, she was making a list as to possible alternatives. Neville
Longbottom came from an old family with money, and he wasn't too disgusting. He was a klutz,
but then again that would make him tractable. Justin Finch-Fletchly came from muggle money, but to
her money was money. Ernie MacMillan's family was also fairly well off. One thing she decided:
She would not be subservient in whatever relationship she ended up in. Just like her mother, she
was going to be in control. That was one reason Draco Malfoy was low on her list, no matter how
much money the Malfoys had.

The Weasley twins were putting together a report for their Chief Investor. Unlike their younger
siblings, they had taken to the values that they had been told, not what their family actually
practiced. Honor was important above all else, and as far as they were concerned, they owed their
loyalty to Harry Potter. It did not bear mentioning that pranks came a close second. The fact that
Harry had financed their joke shop meant that this wouldn't change their mind anytime soon.

Remus Lupin and Nymphadora Tonks were out on a date. They were supposed to be watching Privet
Drive for any sign of Harry Potter. The fact that they knew Harry was nowhere close to Privet Drive
made their job so much easier. They could accurately report that there was no sign of him.

Moony had finally, after much prompting from his pink-haired paramour, inspected the vault that
was opened by the key that Sirius left for him. He wanted to give it back to Harry, but even he
recognized that the cub would in no way, shape or form accept it. When he had opened the vault, he
was shocked to learn that he was in control of an excess of 2,000,000 galleons. Even if he never
worked again, and bought the Wolfsbane potion every month for the rest of his life, he could still
support a wife and children.

Although the idea of children scared him, he realized he couldn't refuse the metamorphmagus
that had finally convinced him that she didn't care if he was a big bad wolf. The turning point
had been the night before when she had shown up to his place dressed as a grandmother with a scarf
that proclaimed loudly, "EAT ME, PLEASE!". After blushing profusely, he decided that if
he couldn't beat her, he'd join her.

Emma Granger lay in bed with her husband of 16 years and 7 months, contemplating what they had
learned and witnessed earlier that evening. At one point, because of the boy's -- no, the young
man's reactions, she was wondering if her daughter only saw him through rose-colored glasses.
And then she had actually seen one of the adventures that her daughter had told her about.

She had learned that instead of being less impressive than the story, it had actually been more
impressive. And that had been hard to believe. She had noted his daughter's reaction when she
had seen the creature that Harry had defeated at age 12 and knew at that point that no matter how
impressive the stories were, they would likely be a pale comparison to fact. That Harry had not
bragged more, even to his best friend, spoke of his lack of desire for being singled out for glory.
As far as she was concerned, this was a good thing. Glory hounds tended to make mistakes and get
themselves killed much easier than those that didn't want the glory. And with Hermione's
nature, Harry would learn to think before he acted. And that was entirely a good thing.

Her husband had been just as impressed, and confessed that he would not in any way act the
over-protective father. The boy had entirely won his approval and his only concern now was her
happiness.

No, Emma mused, she wasn't worried about their relationship in the slightest. In fact, after
discussions she had with Hermione while the men were cooking, she imagined that Harry was feeling
quite nervous and overwhelmed just about now. In her mind, she cheered her daughter on right before
she turned to her husband to engage in her own nighttime escapades.

At that same moment, Harry Potter was lying in bed watching his girlfriend walk toward him,
quite nervous and quite overwhelmed.

When he had made his way up to his room to get ready for bed, Hermione had walked in his room,
handed him a pair of green boxers, one of the robes that she and her mother had picked out and told
him that he would be joining her in her room after he brushed his teeth and such. She had also made
sure that he brought his wand.

As he had spent the last two days with her in his bed, he thought that this was only fair. He
had petted Hedwig before she left to hunt for the evening and put on the things that she had given
him. He paused, wondering if he should also grab a t-shirt, but decided that he would follow
Hermione's instructions to the letter.

After his time getting ready, he had made his way down to her room to find that she was making
her way to the loo to do her own preparations for bed. She told him to get in bed, and she would
join him shortly.

So, he had taken off his robe and stood dressed only in the emerald green silk boxers that he
had been told to wear, trying to once again decide if he should have brought a t-shirt. Finally, he
placed his wand on the bedside table next to his glasses and got into bed to wait for her. He was
overwhelmed by the scent of Hermione. It was obvious to his nose that this was her bed, and as a
result his boxer shorts were becoming somewhat strained.

She shortly walked back into the room, carrying the clothes she had worn that day, once again
dressed in a robe. She asked him if he could silence the door, and he nervously complied. Once that
was done and she had dumped her clothes in the hamper, she had turned quite deliberately toward him
and began taking off her robe. What he saw next he found to be quite overwhelming.

Below her robe, Hermione was NOT wearing the expected t-shirt and shorts that she had worn both
of the previous nights. Instead, she was wearing a lacy black bra which left very little to the
imagination and lacy black knickers which proved quite well that she spent time grooming around her
bikini line.

Harry was quite overwhelmed at the site, as it was obvious that Hermione was quite prepared to
show much more than he thought she was ready for just 5 minutes earlier.

*** LEMON STARTING SOON ***** (A/N: If you want to skip it entirely, it ends when the chapter
ends)

Hermione deliberately picked up a towel and walked toward him. Her smile all but said,
"Prepare for anything".

She placed the towel on the bedside table on her side of the bed, and got in next to him and
quite enthusiastically started kissing him with passion. As this was something he had done before,
he was quite prepared to reciprocate fully.

When her tongue had snaked it's way across his lips, he had opened his mouth and the two
began exploring each other's mouth with the sensitive appendages. During their kiss, Hermione
had grabbed his hand and placed it firmly against her chest. Unlike a t-shirt, the lacy bra allowed
him to feel much more of her bare flesh.

Suddenly she straddled him, allowing him to feel a warmth through his boxers right above his
throbbing member. As he massaged her chest with one hand and her back with the other, Hermione ran
her hands up his back and into his hair. She then took one of her hands and grabbed the hand on her
chest, and moved it to the clasp which held the bra in place. He paused a moment and whispered,
"How far?"

She looked at him with some heat and replied, "Just hands tonight, who knows
tomorrow?"

He once again kissed her as his fingers released the clasp. She pulled back and put out her
arms, waiting for him to take off the concealing garment. Slowly he carefully slid it off, taking
in his first full sight of Hermione's breasts.

He sat there for a moment, a look of awe on his face. Finally, Hermione grabbed his hands and
placed them directly over her nipples. He slowly explored the feel of her naked chest, and rubbed
his hands over her, if not overly large, very respectable and VERY beautiful teats.

Hermione moaned as he gently rubbed her nipples with his thumbs.

Finally, he leaned forward and starting kissing her again. Slowly he made his way down to her
neck as he continued massaging the small globes he held in his hands. soon he moved his mouth down
her chest and held her back as his mouth made contact with her left nipple, which had hardened
considerably since she had first placed his hands on them.

He sucked gently on it, as he held had one arm around her. His other hand he used to gently play
with the nipple he didn't have his mouth on.

Hermione moaned even louder and ground herself against Harry's already straining member. He
groaned in return. Finally, Hermione pulled off of Harry's lap and pulled him down so that he
was somewhat one top of her she reached his head and pulled his lips against hers while letting his
hand still play with her bare chest.

Soon, she grabbed his hand and pulled it down her body toward her now very wet knickers.

He pulled back and looked at her with the eyes wide open, as she smile a sultry smile in return.
He needed no further coaxing as he reached his hand down and rubbed her lace covered sex.

Hermione smiled at him as she the towel on the bed between her legs and then pulled her knickers
aside to give him unrestricted access. He kissed her again as he used his fingers to rub up and
down her very wet lower lips. Finally he pushed a finger inside and slid it inside. She moaned into
his mouth as he seemed to instinctively reach toward the inside wall with his finger and press up
against the front wall. He used his thumb to rub up against the small hard numb he brushed against
when his finger was fully inserted.

Suddenly Hermione moaned very loudly and stiffened. She grabbed his hand and forced it still
while she trembled through an intense orgasm, harder and much more intense than she had ever
achieved herself. She whimpered his name as her walls clenched around his finger.

He looked at her with awe as she rode out the powerful sensations. Finally she caught her breath
and opened her eyes and smiled up toward him and murmured a quiet, "Thank you, that was
wonderful." His smile became somewhat goofy. Her smile took on a more seductive tone as she
continued, "Your turn."

She pushed him over so that he was on his back fully. She grabbed the towel that already
contained her ejaculate and lay it across his stomach. She leaned over and kissed him hard as her
hand snaked in to his boxers for her first feel of that portion of the male anatomy.

It was much bigger around that she had expected, taking her cue from the books she had read. It
was bigger around than either "Harry" or "Potter". She smiled devilishly into
his mouth as she slowly began moving the skin up and down over the glans. Harry moaned into her
mouth as this was the first time that any other hand than his own had ever touched him in quite
this way. He pulled her harder against him as he deepened the kiss as much as he could while losing
coherence rapidly.

As Hermione sped up the motions, as her research had indicated she should, Harry started panting
heavily and his breaths came more and more quickly. Finally, he tensed up and moaned very loudly as
his orgasm hit. The towel collected most of the result, although Hermione felt some of it cover the
fingers of the hand she had used. She continued moving her hand on his member until she felt it
begin to soften. Harry began to try to catch his breath as he looked at his smugly smiling
girlfriend and said, "Hermione, have I told you yet that I love you?"

She moved her mouth back to his for a sensuous kiss before she replied, "Me too, Harry. I
love you, too."

***************** Lemon End ******************************

I've been working up to a lemon scene in my writing. Believe it or not, I want a review as
to whether it smacked of reality or not. Just remember, this Hermione has had a chance to chat with
her mother extensively and was already quite sexual, even if it was just with toys.



10. Chapter 10
--------------

Harry awoke the next morning, feeling both happy and relaxed. The night before, Hermione had
moved their relationship to the next level, and as far as Harry was concerned, it was quite
brilliant.

As he lay in bed, he looked at his bushy-haired girlfriend and wondered how he had become so
lucky to find her.

Harry decided that if he had any choice in the matter, this was who he wanted to spend his life
with.

An hour later, the family sat around the breakfast table enjoying the fry-up that Harry had
prepared. The women made many appreciative comments, while Robert made only a couple while
attempting to suss out exactly how far Harry had gone with his daughter.

"Harry, have you ever played golf?"

Sunday was an enjoyable day all around for the current residents of the Granger household.

Harry had been introduced to the game of golf by Robert, who used the opportunity to grill --
even if ever so lightly -- Harry about his and Hermione's relationship. Harry had attempted to
dodge the question, but had finally admitted to exploration with Hermione's instigation. He
admitted to nervousness as he was terribly frightened of taking advantage of her.

For his part, Robert could see that Harry really had no clue. He decided that if things were as
they appeared, Harry was worthy -- if only barely -- of his daughter's affections. He gave
Harry his permission to allow things to progress, as long as it continued to be Hermione's
decision. He explained to Harry that he trusted his daughter and her decisions. He also explained
that he had always promised himself that his daughter's happiness came first, even if it
conflicted with his desire to strap any young man that showed interest to his dental chair without
the benefit of anesthetic.

Robert then asked if he had a dentist and offered to check out his teeth. At Harry's look of
terror, Robert completely lost it. Harry sheepishly laughed in response and wondered aloud if
Robert was perhaps having a littlemore fun than he was himself on this trip. Finally Robert clapped
him on the shoulder and agreed that Harry had seen through his motives.

The two actually had quite a camaraderie by the time the outing was complete.

Emma and Hermione, in the meanwhile, were actually relieved to be left alone by the menfolk.

They had spent quite a bit of time chatting about Harry, relationships, Harry, sex, Harry,
marriage, Harry, future plans and, oh of course, Harry.

Having the relationship they had, Hermione was quite forthcoming about their previous
evening's activities. Emma was amazed at Harry's apparent natural ability to fond the
sensitive spots on a woman's most intimate parts.

Somehow, by the end of their discussion, the two had ended up in a bookstore purchasing books on
sensual massage and . Hermione was going to make Harry do homework. Somehow, she didn't think
he would mind much.

When Harry and Robert finally made it back to the house, Hermione had made a great show of
inspecting Harry for damage while mock glaring at her father. The family had quite a laugh about
it.

They also had discussed the headlines of that day's Daily Prophet.

*POTTER WILL IGNORED BY SUPREME MUGWUMP*

*According to a certified copy of the the Potter will received compliments of the
Boy-Who-Lived, there are significant indications that Albus Dumbledore defied the written Last
Wills of ....*

**GRINGOTT'S RESPONDS TO INQUIRIES**

**In an unusual move, Gringott's Bank has made a statement in response to questions
regarding the handling of the Potter Wills. According to a spokesman for Ragnok, Manager of
Gringott's, Albus Dumbledore ....**

**WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW? Conflict with You-Know-Who Quiet**

**Since being seen at the Ministry of Magic over 2 1/2 weeks ago, there have been few reports
of activity on the part of the Death Eaters, followers of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. The question on
everyone's mind is what plans ....**

Monday evening, the Order of the Phoenix met at Hogwarts. The Headmaster called the meeting to
order.

"Remus, what can you tell me about Harry's relatives' house?"

Remus piped in with, "I'm sorry, Albus. Tonks and myself have looked for any indication
of Harry's movements, and we have not seen any indications that he was there. But then again,
we haven't seen any indications he was not there."

Arabella Figg added her two pence. "Petunia has not said much but there are indications
that he is not there. According to neighborhood gossip, the boy has not been seen. Then again, he
could be being isolated by the family. So there is no guarantee."

"Alastor, if you could, please go tomorrow and check to see if there are any indications
that you could see using your splendid magical sight."

Moody gruffly replied, "Will do, Albus. If I see him there, what do you want me to
do?" Moody was a little put off by the Headmaster's attempt at flattery. Although he was
very satisfied with his magical eye, it also reminded him of old injuries he had sustained.
Dumbledore was losing his smoothness for some reason.

"Please report back to me as soon as possible, should you find evidence either way."
The Headmaster knew that his comment had been somewhat insensitive, but he was distracted with his
weapon moving outside of his sphere of influence. He would have to work on calming himself more. He
turned to Arthur. "Have you heard any word from young Harry?"

Arthur looked around at the others as he replied. "I haven't heard any indication from
my children that Harry has been in touch." He turned to the Headmaster. "I can ask Ron to
owl him if that would help."

Albus thought about this for a moment. "Perhaps a more indirect approach. We know of young
Harry's friendship with Ms. Granger. Could you ask your children to invite her to the Burrow
for some time this summer? Once she is there, she could possibly aid in contacting him."

Molly looked to Albus with a touch of enthusiasm, as this worked to her plan. Dumbledore nodded
discretely to her. He then moved to his next subject.

"Kingsley, have we had any word on what the Ministry is doing in the face of Lord
Voldemort's return?"

"A vote of no confidence is being discussed among the department heads. Fudge is likely on
his way out. If another successful attack occurs, it would likely cause the end of the Fudge
administration." Albus nodded his head in response.

"Severus, what reports do we have on Lord Voldemort and his followers?"

Snape replied is his silky voice. "The Dark Lord has finally become ambulant. I have been
tasked with several potions for stamina and stability of his magic. He has confided that he no
longer feels the connection with the brat." Severus had an image to maintain, after all.
Minerva immediately chided him, although he did not respond to her.

McGonagall then added, "Can we use this to our advantage? If he has been weakened, this
could aid in the fight against him."

Albus answered in his calm manner. "Yes, yes, quite. We all should consider this and make
plans to be brought up in our next meeting. Severus, if you could continue monitoring?" Snape
nodded his head with a blank look upon his face.

Albus needed Amelia Bones out of the way NOW. If was to regain control of young Harry Potter, he
must not have allies in Ministry that he did not control. In addition, she was the strongest
contender if Cornelius was dismissed. It would not do to have a Minister that was too popular.

Emmeline Vance then asked the question that many of those not within Dumbledore's inner
circle wanted to ask. "Headmaster, if I may, what is happening with the headlines in the Daily
Prophet? Many of the Ministry workers have had questions and I have not had the information to
defend you against slur. Can you talk about it?"

Dumbledore almost growled before he calmed himself down. "I understand the problem. I
assure you, everything that I have done has been for the Greater Good. Mr. Potter was placed with
his relatives for his own safety as due to the sacrifice his mother made, there were no stronger
protections that could be devised. Perhaps reminding people that young Harry survived to this day,
despite attempts by Death Eaters and Voldemort to find him indicates the wisdom of my
choice."

Emmeline nodded her head in agreement, seeing the point. She, like so many others, looked up to
Dumbledore and was convinced of his near-infallibility. The questions she had because of the
several articles were many, but she put her trust in Albus Dumbledore, until someone could convince
her personally otherwise.

Amos Diggory decided to throw his hat into the ring. He had also read the Prophet and his
fanatical loyalty to Dumbledore was being eroded by his common sense. His son had been killed, and
he was starting to feel that Albus had more than a little part to answer for in the long run.
However, he decided to keep this to himself. "Albus, I'm quite worried what effect this
may have if Fudge is ousted. I trust you, you know that. But how will we overcome this in case we
need control of the Wizengamot?"

Albus apparently took a moment to think this over, although he felt this would not be a worry
once Amelia was eliminated. "You bring up a good point, Amos. Perhaps, should the vote go
through, we should evaluate things at that time. By then, any number of things could change."
Around the room, several heads were seen to nod in agreement. "Is there any other
business?" No one replied. "Very well, I call this meeting to a close. Severus, please
remain after."

Everyone made their way out of the Headmaster's office, except Snape who sat with a stoic
expression. Minerva wanted to remain for this, as Severus was a colleague, but Dumbledore shook his
head and she left.

"Severus, have you had opportunity to express concerns about Madam Bones?"

Snape shook his head. "The Dark Lord has only now begun to be aware enough to begin making
plans again."

"I understand. We must distract the public from these slanderous reports in the Daily
Prophet. There is no indication that young Harry is staying with her, so should she be attacked, he
would not be harmed. We must get him back under our control for Voldemort to be ultimately
defeated. I should hope that she has taken the warning to heart that she was sent, but I dare not
call attention to myself further."

"Perhaps if I personally informed her of the possible danger?"

"No. I'm sorry, my boy. But we must not risk exposure. The previous warning must
suffice. Sometimes sacrifices might be required."

Severus Snape nodded his head, and struggled to maintain his calm facade. He might not care
about the woman personally, but he promised himself he would protect Harry Potter, spawn of his
most loathsome enemy, regardless of how he personally reacted to the boy. He would have to work
quickly.

"Very well. When reporting to Voldemort about this meeting, please launch the plan as we
outlined."

Severus Snape had only a short time before he had to report back to his Lord.

"Mipsy!" The house elf assigned to him and who kept his secrets popped in before her
Master.

"Master! How can Mipsy help you?"

"I need to ensure that this parchment makes its way to Harry Potter. Can you do
that?"

The house elf nodded her head enthusiastically. She was always enthusiastic when she could help
her Master. She took the letter and popped off.

Severus Snape waited as long as he could before making his way outside of the wards to go report
to the Dark Lord.

When he made his way to the chamber his Master held court in and kneeled, Voldemort ordered,
"Report!"

Severus kept his eyes lowered as he replied, "The Order of the Phoenix continues a watch
and wait approach. Dumbledore has expressed concerns over a possible attack against Amelia
Bones."

Voldemort looked intrigued. "Why is this a concern of the Order?"

"Madam Bones was named the brat's magical guardian by his deceased godfather's
will."

"Approach and raise your sleeve!" Severus stood and moved to his Master. Voldemort
took his wand and pressed it against his loyal servant's mark.

Within half an hour, the chamber was filled with what was left of his inner circle and several
lower ranking members.

"My loyal followers! It is time to get back to the business of spreading terror! Bellatrix,
I have need of you."

Bellatrix Lestrange bowed to her Lord and Master. "I am ready to serve."

"You will accompany me on a mission most important. Amelia Bones, blood traitor that she
is, must be eliminated and quickly. Yaxley, you must make your way to the Ministry and distract the
on-duty Aurors with a report of a possible sighting of ... Travers. Inform them that he is
vulnerable. Report that he was seen in Ottery St Catchpole. Travers, make your way to the town and
have a drink or two at a pub and then return here. There are several blood traitors in the area and
so this would not seem suspect. Fenrir, you shall lead the attack force of giants that I wish to
cause mayhem around the country. I shall attack Madam Bones at 2:00 AM. You should attack at the
same time in ... Kent. It is not that far from where the Potter brat lived. I will tell you all
now, I will take personal satisfaction on the filthy muggles that raised him. Therefore, there will
be no attacks on his childhood home until I order it. Do you all understand?"

Around the room, all of the Death Eaters replied, "Yes, My Lord!"

"Fenrir, I will provide portkeys. Let loose for an hour and then return. Do you
understand?"

The evil looking werewolf leered in anticipation of the planned destruction. "Yes, My
Lord!"

"If this is timed correctly, this will distract the Ministry of Magic sufficiently for the
next several weeks, allowing other operations to be successful. Severus, tomorrow inform your
godson that his presence will be required soon. At 1:00, return to the muggle-loving fool so that
your position is not compromised. Inform him at 1:50 about the attack in Kent and that you do not
know of exactly where it is. He will take time to gather his forces which will give Fenrir time to
leave. Tell him that you overheard the planning and that you were undetected when hearing this. I
do not wish him to know that this is part of my plan."

Severus replied, "Yes, My Lord!"

"Tonight, we will announce the return of the terror of Lord Voldemort! I will warn you,
should any of you fail me, the price will be significant."

The meeting broke up as the various Death Eaters made ready to do their part.

Harry and Hermione were making watching a movie when a strange house elf popped into the
room.

Harry looked at the elf and said, "Hello. Can I help you?"

"Mipsy is here for a letter from her Master. It seemed quite important that the letter get
to you right away." The house elf was bashful in the presence of a wizard and witch not her
own.

"Thank you, Mipsy. Can you tell me who is your Master?"

"Master did not tell me I could say."

"Can I have the letter?" The house elf handed him the letter and he looked it over.
His facial expression took on a most concerned look as he read it. "Thank you, Mipsy. You were
wonderful. Please thank your Master when next you see him and tell him that I will ensure that
things are handled." Mipsy blushed at the praise as she nodded her agreement to pass on the
message before she popped off.

"Hermione, we have to talk to your parents. Please get them while I call Dobby."
Hermione made her way to the upstairs library and den. "Dobby!"

Dobby popped in. "Yes Mr. Harry, Sir! How can Dobby help?"

"Please go to Amelia and ask permission for me to come to her; tell her it is urgent. Once
she approves, come back and you will take me there after I talk to Hermione and her parents."
Dobby nodded and popped off.

A couple of minutes later, the Grangers made their way to the room. "I'm sorry. But I
received a letter that I MUST heed." He handed the letter to Hermione, who passed it on with a
worried expression.

"Harry, what are you going to do?" was Hermione's response when all had read
it.

"First, Emma, Robert, can I invite a friend here to get her out of the way of the attack?
Amelia's niece is a friend and I want her out of the way." The two dentists nodded.
"I will be going to Amelia and helping her to prepare." Hermione began to protest.
"Hermione, I HAVE to. I was warned this would happen."

Hermione replied, "Fine. But I'm going with you."

The Grangers were becoming more nervous and were about to object when Harry cut them off.
"Hermione, this time it would be much better if you stayed here. I am going to send Susan here
with Winky. She will help protect Susan, you and your parents. Dobby will bring me back the moment
it becomes dangerous. Amelia's house elf will take her to safety and Dobby will protect
me." Hermione's eyes filled with tears.

"Hermione, I know I can't stop you from standing by my side in this war. But, in this
once case, I need you here to look after Susan. It will keep Amelia from being distracted as
well." Hermione nodded at the logic to it, as much as she hated it.

"I don't know how long I will be. It will be a very late night. Nothing may happen. The
moment there is any indication that there is a problem, I will call Winky to let her know so you
can be prepared in case I AM hurt. Can you brew up a couple of potions for the next couple of
hours?" Hermione nodded her head in resolve. "Good. Susan can help also."

The Grangers looked at Harry in admiration for his planning and the fact that he was doing
everything he could to Hermione away from the action without rejecting her help, which would crush
her. Hermione was not happy but she would do her part. Harry saw her unhappiness and hugged her
tightly.

Dobby popped back in. "Mr. Harry Potter Sir has permission to come to Ms. Amelia's and
Ms. Susan's house."

"I know it's hard. But please don't worry. After you brew the potions, try to get
some sleep. As I said, this is just a precaution. Oh, damn." Harry continued after
Hermione's call of "Language!" "I have to update the wards to allow Susan and
Amelia. I'm going to add Tonks and Remus as I will call them to help as well."

Hermione looked much more positive knowing Harry wasn't planning on doing it all
himself.

After quickly updating the wards, Harry was hugged by Emma as Robert patted him on the back.
Hermione gave him one of her massive hugs before he smiled at them and popped off with Dobby.

Emma and Robert looked at Hermione's worried face and each other. Time to distract Hermione.
Emma asked her, "What can we do to help prepare to make the potions?"

Hermione's face took on a resolved look as she said, "Dad, help me bring down my trunk
with my supplies. Mum, clear off counter space, the table and the stove."

Within ten minutes, Hermione had made her way back to the kitchen with Robert helping to carry
all of her supplies. Hermione then had a thought and ran back upstairs to get all of Harry's
supplies from his trunk as well.

As Hermione was setting up, Winky popped in with a hastily dressed Susan Bones. "Winky,
thank you for helping. Susan, welcome to my house. These are my parents, Emma and Robert
Granger."

Susan greeted Hermione and then turned to the Granger parents and with some nervousness said.
"I wanted to thank you for letting me stay here."

Emma took the girl in a hug and said, "Any friend of Hermione's and Harry's is
welcome. How long will you stay?"

Susan shook her head. "I don't know. My aunt said that tomorrow we will make additional
plans. If the worst happens, I will become emancipated and Harry will be responsible for making
sure I'm kept safe. He insisted and my aunt agreed."

The Grangers were shocked, although Hermione wasn't as surprised as her parents. Basically,
Susan Bones would become Harry's responsibility if Amelia was killed. The trust shown in Harry
by the Director of Magical Law Enforcement was staggering to the couple. They knew that Harry was
admired by the wizarding world, but to be treated as an adult at 15 with all the responsibilities
it implied showed that they had still underestimated the way he was viewed.

Hermione finally replied, "Well, you're welcome to stay as long as you need. You'll
be in the third bedroom on the second floor. Winky? Can you help get whatever clothes and supplies
Susan needs from her house?" Winky nodded enthusiastically and popped off, even as Hermione
took Susan upstairs.

Harry, Amelia, Remus and Tonks were waiting to see if there was going to be an attack. They were
all in the family room on various couches, in tense readiness. It was 1:55 in the morning. Remus
and Tonks had just received patronus messages that there was going to be an attack in Kent. Harry
had argued against them going as he had a feeling it was a diversion. Amelia had sent a message off
to Shacklebolt to call in every off duty Auror to go and defend.

Earlier, when Harry had shown up, he had convinced Amelia to let Susan stay at Hermione's
house. Susan wanted to stay and fight, being a member of Dumbledore's Army, but was finally
convinced to allow Winky to take her away. Then the planning had begun.

*Flashback*

*Remus Lupin and Auror Nymphadora Tonks were sitting in the drawing room with Amelia, Harry
and the two house elves after they had arrived by means of the floo.*

*"Harry, Albus is having Alastor Moody check out the Dursley home to see if you are there
tomorrow."*

*Harry thought about it. "Is there any way to use that?"*

*Remus shook his head pensively. "I don't know. With his magical eye, he'll be
able to see through the house and see that you aren't there."*

*"I wish there was a way to prevent that."*

*Dobby started bouncing enthusiastically. "Dobby can help!"*

*All of the magical humans turned toward Dobby. Harry asked, "How can you help,
Dobby?"*

*Dobby looked quite proud as he said, "House elf magic can be used to make house
impervious to magical sight!"*

*The wizards and witches were astounded. Amelia commented, "The more I learn, the more I
know how ridiculous it is to forget about other magics outside of wizard and witch
magic."*

*Harry grinned at Dobby. "That's great! Can you make only certain rooms invisible to
magical sight or only the whole house?"*

*Dobby thought a moment. "I can do certain areas. Usually we would perform the magic on
the whole house."*

*"How long would it take?" His face took on a mischievous look. "Can you do
anything other than make it invisible to magic sight?"*

*"Only a few moments!" He paused again. "House elves can make it invisible to
magic sight or make it look a certain way when the magic is cast."*

*"Okay, Dobby. Here's what I want you to do. I want you to go to my old house and
make my old bedroom invisible as well as the bathroom, kitchen and the hallways in between. I want
it to look like I am trying to hide my presence there. Then I want you and Winky to put up every
house elf ward you can on Hermione's house since I'm living there now. Ask her parents if
you need permission from the house owner. Make sure you don't exhaust yourself too much. I
still might need your help tonight and I don't want you to hurt yourselves. Once that's
done, come back here and rest until called. Okay?"*

*Dobby nodded his head enthusiastically even as he proclaimed Harry Potter Sir as the greatest
wizard for letting Dobby serve him. He then popped off to complete the assignment.*

*Amelia looked at the spot that Dobby had stood. She turned to her own house elf. "Tipi?
Can you also put up the same wards here?"*

*The Bones' house elf nodded her head vigorously. "Tipi can do."*

*"Please place every ward you can on the property." Tipi popped off to complete the
order from her mistress.*

*Amelia looked to Harry. "Is the attack happening tonight?"*

*Harry looked frustrated. "I don't know. I got the word that it would be discussed
tonight. Remus, Tonks, do you know anything?"*

*Tonks replied, "We didn't hear anything in particular, but we do know that Albus
kept Severus after the meeting tonight. They might have discussed it then."*

*Harry sighed. "That coincides with the report one of my sources sent to me. The source
seemed sure that it would be soon."*

*Remus replied, "Well, it would be best to rest until the wards are attacked. Should we
rest here, or in separate rooms?"*

*Amelia interjected, "I say we fort up in the family room. We can add individual wards on
the room, in addition to the ones on the house. It would give us a couple of extra minutes in case
of attack."*

*"Can you show me how to perform some of the spells? Since the cleansing ritual at
Gringott's my magic seems to be much ... larger is the best word I can think of. If more power
can help, I'd like to try."*

*The three adults began to show Harry the wand movements and incantations for several wards
for a room and other proximity wards.*

*End Flashback*

As the group chatted, the silence of the night was shattered with a large explosion in the front
of the house.

The four defenders rushed toward the front of the house to see several Death Eaters attacking
the wards, and worst of all, Voldemort himself was present.

Harry called to Dobby. "Okay, Dobby. Go tell the Grangers that there is an attack and then
you and Tipi need to get ready to take us out of here if the wards are breached. Don't let
yourself be seen. We will retreat to the family room if the outer wards come down and you'll
take us from there. Okay?"

Amelia directed the rest to start throwing spells at the attacking Death Eaters. Tonks and
Amelia began sending stunners out toward the attacking wizards. Remus joined in with other
non-lethal jinxes.

Harry, however, did NOT send stunners. He carefully lined up and shouted out
"Reducto!"

The others paused in shock as the curse impacted right in front of Voldemort, blowing him back
as the debris from the stone in front of him was shattered in his direction.

The death eaters paused in shock as their Lord was attacked.

Amelia quickly said, "Harry, the rules of engagement ...."

Harry cut her off, "I learned at the Department of Mysteries that stunners only leave them
opportunity to be revived and come back to the battle. This is VOLDEMORT. It is NOT time to play
nice." The three nodded and began sending much more damaging curses and hexes toward the
attacking death eaters. Cries of "Diffindo", "Reducto", "Expulso" and
others replaced the stunners of the minute before.

The Death Eaters stopped attacking the wards directly and began attempting to send killing
curses towards whoever was defending this house.

Amelia quickly told everyone to duck. Harry, from his position on the floor, cast a Duro charm
on the wall in front of them. Suddenly the wall turned to stone, this stopping whatever portion of
the killing curses that made it through the wards.

Amelia, Tonks and Remus were once again amazed at Harry's quick thinking. Harry was just
thankful that Hermione had found the charm when they were looking over books just the day before
while the Grangers were at work. When Harry remembered the graveyard and the effect of stone
defending against the killing curse, the two had practiced the wand movements vigorously when they
had come across it.

The four cautiously took a look and saw that Voldemort was enraged. The Death Eaters were quite
terrified as he crucioed one of them. He then directed them to continue the attack. Harry once
again started sending out lethal hexes and curses at the attackers along with the others. The Death
Eaters were frantically trying to attack as Voldemort once again began attacking the wards
directly. Unfortunately for the Death Eaters, they had to spend too much energy protecting
themselves against the spells flying toward them. Their own spells were weakened considerably by
the wards. Finally Voldemort seemed to be gathering his energy for one massive all-out attack on
the wards. Harry took aim and sent an overpower Blasting Curse directly at Voldemort. As he had
been gathering his energy, he used it now for a large shield that became visible in front of him.
Voldemort still was knocked back a bit when the curse exploded against his shield.

Once again, everyone ducked as several killing curses flew toward the open windows.

When they had passed, Harry cautiously took a look out the window. The Death Eaters were looking
toward Voldemort confused. Bellatrix Lestrange looked livid that her Lord and Master was being
attacked and turned back toward the house getting ready to send more killing curses. Harry took aim
again and sent a Diffindo which hit Bellatrix in her wand hand, slicing through the wand and
causing blood to spurt from her damaged appendage. Finally Voldemort sent a killing curse himself
as he rushed toward his loyal lieutenant. The defenders ducked again. Suddenly everything became
quiet.

The defenders cautiously looked out the windows of the wall that had been turned to stone by
Harry's earlier Duro charm, and saw that the Death Eaters and Voldemort had either apparated or
portkeyed away.

The four collectively sighed as they realized they had effectively defended themselves against
not just the Death Eaters but Voldemort himself.

Amelia finally said, "Well, Harry, your instincts were proven correct. Now I have to get to
the Ministry to report this."

Harry answered, "I just acted upon the information I had the best I could."

"That may be true, but it was well done nonetheless. Tonks, you're with me."

Harry stopped her. "I suggest Remus report this to Dumbledore. As Tonks spends time with
him and she is an Auror, it wouldn't be unusual for her to tell Remus. Make sure that
Dumbledore doesn't know that I was here. We want him thinking that I'm still on Privet.
Tonks should go to Privet and 'check on things'. Make sure whoever is watching from the
Order sees you do it. Then go to the Ministry. Amelia, I suggest you get one of your Aurors to leak
to the Prophet that Voldemort was driven away from your house by yourself and 'select other
Aurors'. It will make him look bad, and deflect attention from who actually was here."

Remus began to grin as he said, "Now THAT is the son of a Marauder."

The group laughed. Dobby was called to take Harry back to the Grangers. Amelia and the others
went their separate ways.

Harry was popped into the family room by Dobby. He was not that surprised to see the others in
the house nervously awaiting word. When he showed up, the three women in room jumped up and almost
smothered him in hugs, all of them trying to squeeze him at the same time. Robert just laughed in
the background, relieved beyond words that his daughter's young man returned apparently
uninjured and cheerful.

Finally Hermione said, "What happened? How is Amelia and the others?" The rest looked
interested, especially Susan.

"Everyone is fine. I don't know what it was, but they were held out of the wards long
enough that they had to retreat, especially after Bellatrix Lestrange was injured in the
fight." Hermione and Susan were shocked; the Grangers just looked mildly interested. "Got
her wand and wand hand caught with a cutting curse."

Hermione looked vastly relieved that all were well. "So, what's happening?"

"Amelia went to the Ministry, Remus is reporting to Dumbledore what he 'heard from
Tonks', Tonks is misdirecting the Order as to my whereabouts and I am going to bed after a
quick shower as I am quite knackered." The Grangers laughed at Harry's feeble attempt at
humor, more because of the release of tension than it being funny at all.

The Grangers called their service to make sure an alternate dentist covered their morning
appointments and went to bed. The teenagers, greatly relieved at the successful defense and the
fact that none were hurt, went up to the second floor. Harry grabbed his toiletries as the girls
just relaxed after so much tension was released. The girls were just saying goodnight as Harry came
out of the bathroom in his robe. Susan bid them both a good evening and carefully noted that what
Hermione had said earlier seemed to be true. Harry was going into her bedroom and not his own.

She would have so much to tell Hannah the next time she saw her.



11. Chapter 11
--------------

Albus Dumbledore was incensed. Apoplectic. Enraged. In other words, Albus Dumbledore was not
happy.

Having read in the paper that Amelia Bones had been attacked, he was disappointed to find that
not only had she survived a direct attack upon her property by Tom Riddle, she was not even
injured. When he had inquired as to what had happened, he had found that not only had she survived,
she was completely unscathed.

He decided he had to investigate.

As he flooed to the Ministry of Magic, he was met with mass confusion. He quickly made his way
to the DMLE.

"Ah, Auror Church. It's so good to see you. I was curious as to what you can tell me
about last night."

"Hello, Headmaster. Sorry, it's a bit hectic. Last night there were attacks in Kent by
Giants."

"Yes, yes. Some of my friends responded to the attack. Can you tell me what happened
fully?"

"Well, last night we got word right before two in the morning that there were Giants.
Unfortunately, the call came right after a few of the on-duty Aurors were off checking a report of
a Death Eater in Ottery St Catchpole. There are a few Ministry employees that live in the area, so
the report was considered a higher priority.

"When the call came in about Kent, every Auror that could be contacted was sent to Kent to
help fight off the attacks. The Giants were laying about, attacking automobiles, buildings,
bridges, and every muggle they could get their hands on."

"Oh, yes. Quite unfortunate. Was Amelia involved in that?"

"Actually, she's the one who sent the report to us. Seems she got a tip from someone.
Anyway, she was attacked separately by you-know-who."

"Do you know of the result of that attack?"

"Apparently she had a couple of other Aurors with her. I also heard," and here Auror
Church looked around to make sure they weren't overheard, "Harry Potter was
involved."

Dumbledore masked his irritation. He knew Harry was involved somehow; Harry was involved with
everything. What he didn't know was where Harry was. He would have to contact Alastor to find
out if he had inspected Privet yet.

The people in the house slept until late in the morning. It had been a long night for Harry.
After he and Hermione had gone to bed, he had to spend an additional hour consoling her about not
having been present, even though it had all worked out. He was coming more and more to realize that
she refused to stay behind again. He would have to talk to Robert and Emma about it.

Susan had awoken to find the Bones' house elf standing next to her bed with a letter.
Thanking Tipi, she took it and began to read.

*"Dear Susan,*

*"As Harry probably told you last night, all is well with me and no one was hurt in the
attack. If you're still worried, don't be. I am now surrounded by a large number of
off-duty Aurors who refuse to let me go anywhere without 6 bodyguards.*

*"Something you should learn when you have people who work for you: The boss works just
as much or more for his underlings. When they agree on things, it is very hard to say no. The only
reason that you are not surrounded by an additional 4 Aurors yourself is that you are under
Harry's protection when you are not with me. My people agreed that he was more than sufficient
to make sure that you were protected. Especially after they weaseled out of me that he had been at
the house last night and was the one that had actually driven Voldemort and Bellatrix Lestrange
off.*

*"Unfortunately, Bones Manor was damaged a bit in the attack. Much better it was the
house than the people, though.*

*"So, until things are settled down over the attacks last night (there was also an attack
in Kent) you will stay with him. I have written a letter to him as well, letting him know what is
happening. Besides, I am sure that between you, his friend Hermione and yourself, you can find
sufficient things to keep you amused. See if Harry will invite Hannah Abbott over as well. Then
again, with three against one, he might not be TOO keen on that.*

*"I will regularly have Tipi take messages back and forth between us to make sure you
know what is happening.*

*"Keep safe and I love you.*

*"Aunt Amelia"*

Once she did her morning routine, Susan made her way down to the ground floor to see about
getting something to eat. The scene she came across, she had to admit, was vastly amusing.

Hermione and her parents were sitting at the table watching Harry and two house elves argue
about who was supposed to be cooking. Harry apparently was attempting to make lunch for all the
residents, but Winky, his female house elf, was adamant about doing it herself. The male house elf,
Dobby, was rushing around doing all of the small jobs that were necessary for making a meal while
the two were distracted.

Finally Harry bowed to Winky and presented her with the spatula and then made his way over to
the table. Hermione's commented as he sat down , "Are you sure that you can't convince
her to let you or mum do it?"

Harry looked at her incredulously and said, "Be my guest and give it a try," and then
pointed Hermione toward a smugly satisfied house elf.

Hermione looked at Winky and said, "No. It's alright. I'll take your word for
it."

The Grangers and Susan laughed. Harry was grinning at her and Hermione's face was a bit
sheepish.

As the group chatted, an owl delivering the Daily Prophet came in the window. They gathered
round to see what was said in the paper.

**GIANTS ATTACK IN KENT: Ministry Obliviaters Out in Force**

**Early this morning, in Kent England, muggles found themselves face to face with giants
attacking homes and structures with apparent zeal. The Queen Elizabeth II Bridge was damaged
significantly, and only by the heroic efforts of several witches and wizards were no muggles killed
when it collapsed. A spokesman for the Muggle-Worthy Excuse Committee on hand had this to say:
....**

**DIRECTOR OF DMLE SURVIVES ATTACK FROM HE WHO MUST NOT BE NAMED**

**Anonymous sources from within the Ministry confirm that Amelia Bones, Director of the
Department of Magical Law Enforcement, was attacked at her home early this morning. She, along with
other unnamed Aurors, were involved in ....**

**IS FUDGE THE MINISTER WE NEED?**

**Several members of the Wizengamot have gone on record to ask if Cornelius Fudge, embattled
Minister of Magic, has the necessary skills to lead in the fight against the Death Eaters and the
Dark Lord that leads them. Readers might recall ....**

By the end of lunch, plans had been made for the rest of the day as well as for later in the
week.

Harry had sent Hedwig off to Gringott's to arrange to complete the review and paperwork on
his parents' wills. Robert and Emma had agreed to go with him on Friday to offer advice. Susan
was invited along if she was still around, as well as Hannah if she was visiting. Emma and Robert
were thrilled to host more friends, regardless of the reasons.

The two dentists had also brought up their annual vacation that was planned for later in the
month. Since Hermione was an only child, the two made sure that three weeks each summer were
devoted to spending time with her. This had been the case since she was a very young girl. They had
planned on visiting the continent, but they felt that it was too close to the troubles of the
UK.

As a result, the plans had changed to a trip across the pond. The Granger parents were planning
on a road trip from Niagra Falls in New York, west through several states and then north through
portions of Michigan, cross over to Canada, which was a part of the commonwealth they had never
visited, east back to Niagra Falls and then to spend the last week in New York City proper seeing
the sights.

Admittedly it was ambitious, but it was far different from what they were used to, and as a
vacation that was always the goal -- have fun while experiencing new things.

Harry was enthusiastic to see things that he had not seen before and to him, it sounded quite
brilliant. He agreed to ask Gringott's about getting a passport.

After the Grangers left to work for the afternoon, the three teenagers spent the time working on
the rest of their summer homework. Susan admitted that she had not finished all of her work on
Potions and Transfiguration, and Hermione volunteered to help her with some of it. They also spent
a portion of the time walking around Hermione's neighborhood, seeing the area she had grown up
in. The park, Harry noted, was much nicer than the one in Little Whinging.

After dinner, Harry and Susan were introduced to Star Wars. Needless to say, Harry felt a lot of
empathy for Luke Skywalker.

Tom Riddle, AKA Lord Voldemort, AKA He-Who-Must-Be-Named, AKA You-Know-Who, made ready for his
followers presence. Using Wormtail's Dark Mark, the call went out.

Very shortly the Death Eaters were quietly kneeling in front of their Lord who sat upon his
throne in a most stoic manner, not looking at any one of them.

When the last of his followers arrived, he said very quietly, "I have been
betrayed."

Gasps could be heard around the room.

"Early this morning, plans were made to alleviate a major obstacle to my achieving ultimate
power. Plans were made which should have resulted in the death of this obstacle. My most vicious
lieutenant, however, was injured. I was thwarted. And why, you may ask?"

He coldly looked around the room. He saw the outrage on their faces. He saw the mild look of
revulsion on the face of Severus Snape and assumed that the idea of betrayal was repugnant to him.
He then saw a death eater who was nervous. Ahhh, time for an example.

"Somehow they were warned. Somehow preparations were made which prevented me from my goal.
This is unacceptable." He paused once again, before calling out, "CRUCIO!" The Death
Eater in the back of the room started convulsing under the pain of the curse. The others assumed
that Voldemort was punishing the guilty party.

After a minute, Voldemort released the man from the curse. "There is a lesson to be
learned. The lesson is thus: Betrayal will bring repercussions. Avada Kadavra!" Voldemort
looked over his followers, seeing them properly cowed at the demonstration. "Get that thing
out of my sight. Know that I am displeased and that is the price of my displeasure. Soon you will
be called again, and I would expect that you will all ensure that I am not displeased when the next
operations are begun. Now, leave me! Except Severus. I have a task for you." Two other low
level lackies grabbed the body and took it out to the garbage trench. The rest of the Death Eaters
respectfully backed out of the room before making haste to get away before it was decided that they
needed punishment.

Voldemort was quite aware that it was highly unlikely that there had actually be a betrayal. It
was why he had not taken the time and energy to actually verify that the nameless follower had
actually betrayed him. The purpose of the demonstration was not to root out treachery. The purpose
was to create a scapegoat.

Since the week before, his energy levels which had previously been unmatched had taken a swift
dive. He was well aware that he no longer had the connection that he had created to the sniveling
brat. Although he was more powerful than any one Death Eater, he no longer had the stamina that he
had enjoyed since returning to a body. It was worrisome to him. He finally realized that Potter had
unknowingly supplied the recharge potential he had enjoyed, and he no longer had that avenue.

He would have to push back his large scale plans to research power-increasing methods. He could
not afford to show weakness to his followers. His inner circle, outside of Bellatrix and Severus,
would have to stay in Azkaban until he was more prepared. It required careful handling -- enough
bribes to keep them from facing trial and not enough bribes to get them released.

Finally, all had left except one lone figure still kneeling before him. "Severus. I will
require information on Lucius's son. What was the result of his summons to the Bank run by
those vermin?"

"I have a letter from young Malfoy detailing it. May I present it to you?" Voldemort
nodded and Snape approached subserviently.

He opened the letter to read what young Draco had written.

*"My Lord,*

*"I write this to report the result of the Will reading for the Blood Traitor, Sirius
Black.*

*"First, the attendees included, other than your loyal followers of myself, my mother and
Severus Snape, mainly blood traitors and mudbloods. The muggle loving fool was there with his loyal
dogs by the name of Weasley, Potter, Granger, the bitch who used to be my aunt before she was
disowned as well as her spawn, and McGonagall.*

*"The treacherous Black took steps to prevent full knowledge from being made known. Oaths
had to be taken to prevent information from being disseminated. However, I kept my oath limited to
the bare requirements so that I could report as much as possible to you as I am loyal to your
mission.*

*"As a result, I can tell you the following: The muggle-loving fool was treated as a
traitor by Black. He was left with 30 sickles and a deranged house elf. I do not know the reason
for the amount as it is a muggle thing and as such is beneath me, but it was obvious that
Dumbledore knew of the reference.*

*"The Weasleys refused to swear an Oath of loyalty to Potter. As a result, they were
limited to a measly few thousand galleons, not enough to make a difference in their impoverished
lives. They deserve their suffering.*

*"Gifts were made to the Auror department at the Ministry, but the control of funds has
been kept out of their hands. As a result, I can see no way to divert funds to your coffers.
Unfortunately, even my father and mother would be unable to. I hope Black is suffering in whatever
existence he currently has for this slight against you.*

*"The blood traitor who I refuse to acknowledge as related to me was reclaimed into the
House of Black. She received some jewels and some galleons. Her spawn received the same.*

*"I was forced to swear an oath to prevent certain things from being known. By what is
left out, I hope that you may deduce the information.*

*"Now, as to the House of Black and its vast resources: apparently the mutt used a ritual
to adopt a distant cousin as his recognized issue. As a result, the Headship of House Black is
still held by a blood traitor.*

*"My mother and myself were conditionally gifted with very significant resources but the
requirements make my blood boil: I must not carry your mark or enter your service directly, and
this must be verified by Veritaserum and inspection on my 20th birthday.*

*"My desire to bring resources and glory to your cause is hindered by the conditions set.
If I violate these conditions, the money goes to those that would attempt to thwart you.*

*"I await your instructions. If you ask it, I will renounce the Black name as the
conditions are something I cannot agree to. I would be your loyal follower. The result of the
resources that would come to your enemies in this case would be a sacrifice, but I ask you as my
Lord and Master to instruct me in your wishes.*

*"My mother, having been dictated similar conditions, also awaits your
instructions.*

*"Your ever loyal servant,*

*"Draco Malfoy"*

Voldemort considered the missive in front of him. He finally looked at Severus. "Are you
aware of the contents of this letter?"

"No, my Lord. Draco only said he must ask for your instructions."

Voldemort considered the letter he had received as well as how to get around the requirements.
The sad fact was that he needed resources, and as a result he needed the Malfoys. "Our young
Dragon has explained the limitations placed by the blood traitor Black. As a result, you will do
the following: You will swear an oath to me that you will not use Draco Malfoy against me or allow
him to work against me. You will then bind young Malfoy to you by oath. I would not have the
resources he mentioned fall to those that are against me. You will then direct him as I order. Do
you understand?"

"Yes, My Lord."

"Before you get any idea of betraying me, Crucio!" Severus Snape felt the curse for a
moment before it was released.

A short time later he was making his way back to Hogwarts. He would not violate his oath. He
would not *knowingly* allow Draco to work against Voldemort, nor direct Draco against him. He
would bind Draco to him by Oath. He worked on the wording of the Oath as a logic puzzle as he
traveled. *I, Draco Malfoy, give Magical Oath that I will not inform Severus Snape of any actions
I take against the Dark Lord Voldemort, nor allow others to be aware of any actions. Penalty for
the breaking of this Oath shall result in the loss of Magical currency in the amount of 1 Knut to
Severus Snape, deposited in a Jar without his knowledge.*

Perhaps Narcissa would consent to witness the Oath. Yes, his Oath to Voldemort was VERY
limiting, he smirked to himself. He would have to carefully not know anything.

Alastor Moody arrived at Hogwarts shortly after the evening meal. He made his way to
Dumbledore's office, ready to give his report. Dumbledore was very interested in it.

"I inspected the house where the boy's relatives live. I found that certain rooms have
been warded against magical sight. His bedroom, the kitchen, as well as other places he would be
likely to be. I noticed that there was a cupboard under the stairs that was also warded against
magical sight. Maybe that's where he keeps his things."

Albus was relieved. The specific warding seemed to indicate that young Harry was present as
there was no other reason for such specific locations to be warded. "Was there anything else
you saw?"

"After I was at Privet, I decided that I needed to make sure he wasn't somewhere else.
So I decided to check out that girlie's house -- the Granger girl that he seems to be friends
with. I took a look and didn't see anything that indicated he was there, but I then remembered
the others that had gone with him to the Ministry, as well as Bones. I decided to check each one as
much as I could without being detected."

"Ah, a very wise move. What did you find?"

"The Lovegoods are out of the country on some trip to find some creature and won't be
back. The Longbottom boy was harder to check out as his Grandmother has made sure the place was
warded much better than others. However, I finally saw him spending time in a greenhouse out back.
He appeared to be alone and there was no indication that there was anyone else around. I assume the
Weasleys would tell you if he was there. I then went to Bones Manor, and that was where things got
strange."

"Oh, how so?"

"Well, I am keyed into the wards there as I was one of Bones's partners when she was a
junior Auror. So instead of not being seen, I decided for the direct approach. When I got there,
there was significant spell damage to the front of the house, and somehow the wall closest to the
edge of the wards was changed into stone."

Albus looked confused. "What would cause that?"

"I would have said a Duro charm, but that's limited to smaller objects than a wall. The
front wall is 20 feet tall and 60 feet wide and about 15 feet on either side of the door was stone.
The power it would take to do that would be beyond anyone I know of, even you or the Dark bastard.
I could have done the door and may be a window frame, you could probably have gotten 4 more feet
beside the door. But changing 30 feet across and 20 feet up and down means that it was something
else. Either a number of Duro charms from different people or it was a different procedure
altogether. I'll have to ask Amelia when I get a chance."

Albus sighed to himself. He just wanted Alastor to get one with it. Normally he would be very
interested, but he wanted answers. "I see, well, go on. What else did you find?"

"I knocked on the door and got no answer. Not even the house elf. So that means no one was
about. I got myself inside after making sure there were traps on the back door -- the front was
stone and it wouldn't open. There was a room inside that was warded much more heavily than the
rest of the house, and I wasn't keyed in to those wards. Having been there before, I know
it's a family room, but I don't know why it was warded so heavily. Couldn't see into it
and I didn't want to take a chance there were any curses built into the wards. Probably a last
line of defense. I looked around and couldn't find any indication Potter spent any time at the
Manor, so I don't think he's been there."

Dumbledore thanked Alastor and dismissed him after admonishing him to keep an eye out for
information.

He carefully considered Alastor's report. Madam Bones had apparently been prepared for an
attack against her home. As this was a dark time, it wasn't really that surprising. None of
Harry's other close friends appeared to have him as a guest, and the warding at Privet would
indicate he was there. He looked over to the shelf and saw the damaged monitor for the blood ward.
Possibly it was still present and the monitor alone was damaged. It was a slim chance. He would
have to inspect the scene himself. The monitor for the tracking charm on his owl, the only device
that was still working, showed that it was still on Privet somewhere.

If there were additional wards placed, that would explain why it didn't seem to be at Number
Four. He was not prepared to face young Harry quite yet. Perhaps leaving him at his relatives'
tender mercies (Albus smirked to himself at this phrase) would ensure he would be motivated to
trust him again if he took him away from there.

It was time to get the Weasleys to work on mending fences.



12. Chapter 12
--------------

It was early Wednesday morning when Hedwig flew in with the reply form Hannah Abbott.

Susan had gotten Harry's permission to use his owl to invite Hannah over on Thursday night.
Hermione, Susan and Hannah were going to have a sleepover. Harry was just a bit nervous though.
Three girls and one boy in the house. Harry started to make plans.

Mid-morning, Pig and Errol had shown up to Hermione's house. Pig had a letter for Hermione
and Errol had a letter for Harry. They decided to read the letters together. First was
Hermione's.

*"Hermione,*

*"I haven't heard from you since the will reading. Can you believe Sirius demanding
we take an oath? Knowing how smart you are, I'm sure you refused to take whatever oath that
idiot demanded.*

*"I wanted to ask what happened after we left. Mum was in a right state, and who can
blame her? I'm sure Harry is just loving all the money he got. Probably is gonna start acting
like Malfoy. And what was the deal with Sirius and Malfoy anyway? He's a Slytherin and I
can't believe that Sirius even left anything to the snake.*

*"I also wanted to invite you over to the Burrow. I'm sure you are downright bored
with the muggle relatives and if you were here you could have some fun I'm sure. Mum wants to
teach you to run a magical household.*

*"Anyway, let me know when we should pick you up.*

*"Ron"*

When the two were finished with the letter, Harry looked over at Hermione getting himself
prepared for the blow-up he was sure to follow. Sure enough, Hermione's face was rapidly taking
on a most terrifying look as she looked at the parchment as though it were a marriage contract from
Voldemort himself.

Susan, who was on the other side of the library looked up at Hermione and Harry and sent a look
at Harry. Harry said, "Ron. Being more Ron than usual." Susan, surprisingly, didn't
need any more explanation. She rapidly excused herself to go to the kitchen for a snack, giving
Harry a significant look. Susan both looked encouragingly at Harry and quite nervously at Hermione.
After she left, Hermione finally exploded.

"THAT LOATHSOME PIG! He is the MOST INSENSITIVE PRAT I have EVER encountered in my life!
Just wait until I get my wand on him! When I'm though, he's going to wish he never learned
how how to write a letter! No matter HOW PATHETIC the letter was! Bored with my 'Muggle
Relatives'? And his mother? Wants to teach me to run a HOUSE? That is so condescending!
It's like I'm supposed to come at their beck and call, like some little starry-eyed bimbo!
And that's another thing! Where do those red-headed IDIOTS ...."

Suddenly her tirade was cut off as Harry had taken walked up to her and just grabbed hold as
hard as he could. When she paused in her speech and looked at him so close, he brought his lips to
hers and kissed her as hard as he could. Completely losing the thread of her thoughts, she got lost
in the sensation of kissing the love of her life.

When Harry himself started forgetting his name in the sensations, he pulled back and asked,
"Better?"

Hermione smiled at him and replied in the positive before quietly saying, "Thanks. I needed
that."

Harry looked at her knowingly, "Trust me; I could tell."

Finally she brought her attention back to the cause of her upset. The two of them sat on one of
the couches in the library and both took a deep breath and then sighed. Finally Hermione continued,
"Well. I am going to look at this calmly and rationally. And then I'm going to research
spells to turn weasels into insects before I conjure a flock of birds who like the taste of dung
beetles."

Harry let out a hearty laugh in response to her comment, and finally after trying to maintain
her resolved look, she joined him.

When the two had settled down, Harry said, "Well, I know what I'm going to
do."

Hermione looked interested. "What's that?"

"I'm going to get some use out of my investment in the twins and send them a copy of
the letter, with your permission of course. Cry Havoc! And Let Slip the Dogs of Pranks."

Hermione laughed at that before she asked curiously, "I know the quote you're
misquoting. But where did you learn it?"

Harry laughed. "Well, one day in primary school we had a substitute teacher. He tended to
use different quotes. There were a few Shakespeare quotes in there and that was one of them. It
just stuck with me. I didn't really know what it referred to, but I asked after class and he
repeated just that part. Apparently there was more to it, but that part sounded brilliant to a 10
year old. Anyway, thought it fit here," Harry smiled.

"Well, I'm all for it. Let's finish the other letter and look at the package that
came with it."

Harry stopped for a minute. "Wait. I have a better idea. How about if we ...."

Finally Susan came back in after cautiously checking to see if it was now safe. Hermione and
Harry were both finishing letters and both looked much more calm than they had before she ducked
out. She would have stayed and found out what was so upsetting, but she wasn't a Gryffindor.
Hard work and loyalty didn't mean suicide.

The three spent the rest of the afternoon finishing up what they had been working on and
chatting away about Hogwarts, magic, relatives, idiots, and so much more.

Amelia made her way to the apparition point at the Ministry of Magic. Tonks was following her,
as were three other Aurors who would not leave her alone until she was safely away.

It had been a tense two days at the Ministry. After the attack at her home, she had reported in
to a madhouse. Obliviators were rushing out the clean up an attack in Kent. At the same time,
several off-duty Aurors had attached themselves to her side and refused to budge, citing the fact
they were on their own time at the moment and as a result orders to go home were immaterial. As
long as they were prepared for work the next day, they could do whatever they wanted. When the six
had gone home, another four had shown up after coming off duty. As she had decided to sleep in the
the private lounge attached to her office, they felt that four was sufficient to keep her
protected.

Finally, Wednesday morning, she had sent a letter to Harry telling him she planned on coming
over and that she had contacted someone to repair the damage to her house. She would discuss things
when she arrived. Harry had replied, using Tipi, that she was more than welcome. After a call to
the Grangers' office, he had also included an invitation to stay over in the other guest
bedroom on the first floor.

The two Magical Law Enforcement officers apparated to the Grangers' back yard and then made
their way to the door and knocked.

Emma Granger opened the door and invited the two in. They were led to the dining room, where the
rest were already seated. Dobby and Winky had once again insisted on cooking and serving and the
humans had decided it was a losing battle to convince them otherwise. So, the two men and the five
women sat around having a pleasant meal, having decided the serious conversations could wait until
after. By the end of the meal, everyone was quite relaxed.

When the afters had been finished, Harry sat back and finally asked, "So, Amelia,
what's happening at the Ministry?"

Amelia thought about how much she should say and finally decided that those present could be
trusted. "Normally, I wouldn't reveal anything but Friday there will be a no confidence
vote in the Wizengamot. Cornelius has made too many mistakes and it's time for a
change."

Harry nodded, and then asked, "Who's likely to replace him?"

"Well, there are several choices. One name is Rufus Scrimgeour. He's the head Auror. He
has a reputation for toughness which is well deserved, although he's got a bit of an ego which
is why I got the DMLE instead of him. Another name is Pius Thicknesse. He's got almost as many
years experience as Scrimgeour. One other name is Dolores Umbridge, as she's the Senior
Undersecretary despite what was reported in the Prophet. She's been protected ...."

Suddenly Amelia stopped as she noticed the magic pouring off of Harry Potter. His face was like
thunder and the feeling of impending danger was palpable. Hermione Granger stood up and threw her
arms around him, and suddenly the feeling was gone. The rest of the people at the table
relaxed.

After the tense moment was over, Amelia said, "I plan to move on her when Fudge is out of
the way. Would you be willing to provide evidence?"

Harry nodded, "I'll provide memories of her 'detentions' and her admitting to
send the dementors after me to shut me up. She also was about to use the Cruciatus Curse on me
until Hermione tricked her." The explanation for that had to happen before the conversation
continued. Tonks also had to have it explained what else she was guilty of. The scar on the back of
Harry's hand made quite an impression to everyone at the table.

"Okay, so I am sure we can make sure she doesn't become Minister."

Susan interrupted, "What about you, Auntie?"

Amelia thought a moment. "Well, I think I'd be better where I am. The DMLE needs to be
kept together if we're going to win this."

Harry disagreed. "Look, I know you want to make sure the department is effective, but I
think you could do so much more as Minister. Make Scrimgeour Director. You said he was tough. Tough
would work for you while you got everything else under control." Tonks, Hermione and Susan all
agreed with Harry's assessment.

Amelia paused to think about it. "Well, I'll agree to not fight it if I get elected.
But, I'm not going to ask for it." Harry nodded. He had a couple letters to write to the
Daily Prophet. "Do you have any other suggestions?"

Harry thought a moment. "Can you get Alastor Moody back into the DMLE?"

Amelia laughed. "He's retired. And although he'd be good he could never stay behind
a desk. And with his leg, that's where I would want to put him. That or training other Aurors.
And he's had enough of that."

"Actually I had another idea." Amelia looked interested. "One of the big problems
with the last time Voldemort was running around was the Imperius Curse, right?" Amelia nodded.
"When I was in fourth year, Barty Crouch Jr., who took Moody's place, taught us about the
unforgivables. He also put every student under the Imperius Curse to teach us what it was like and
to fight it if we could. Now, I don't know how legal it was, but as a result I could fight off
Voldemort's curse when I faced him." Amelia looked impressed. "How about you get him
in as a consultant? According to what we learned, no person can be under two of those Curse's
at the same time. If you have him work with the Aurors to have them practice throwing it off, not
only would that help keep them safe, it would cancel any earlier Imperius."

Amelia thought about it for a moment. "Actually, there are provisions for it. We
haven't used them as they haven't been in use for the last 12 years, but there's law on
the books for that specific circumstance. As a matter of fact, I think I'll implement that
tomorrow." She looked at Harry. "Thank you. That was an excellent suggestion. Any
more?"

"Who votes in the Wizengamot?"

"Well, several families have seats. About two-thirds of the votes are hereditary though in
practice only a bit under half of those are in active use; the other members are appointed by the
Minister of Magic or the other Wizengamot members. Why do you ask?"

"Do the Potters or Blacks have votes?"

"Come to think of it, both do. As a matter of fact, I think the Potters' held three.
The Blacks held two until the last Head before Sirius died. One of them was the Lestrange seat in
proxy -- it was part of the contract when Bellatrix married into the family. As there were no
provisions to pass on the proxy and all of the members were in Azkaban, that's one vote that is
no longer currently in use. Lucius Malfoy tried to take the proxy as his wife was related by blood,
but there was no one to legally sign it over."

Harry's face took on an unholy glee. "Do the Blacks still hold the proxy?"

Amelia started to smile in response. "You'd have to check with Gringott's. But I
think so."

"Can I assign proxies for any vote controlled by Black or Potter?"

"As you were emancipated, yes. You can't vote them yourself as the minimum age is 21
regardless of coming of age, but you can assign the votes to anyone you want to who is already
21."

"That works. Here is what I propose: ...." Amelia smiled in response. When it was all
said and done, she laughed at the reactions the plan would create.

The next subject would kill the laughter and cause Amelia to curse. No onewas offended due to
the nature of the conversation.

After Tonks had left and Amelia was chatting with the Granger adults in the family room, Harry
and Hermione spent a bit of time working out exactly what to write to Ron in response. Hermione
didn't want to lie, as this was not her way unless it was life or death, but she also
didn't want to tell the Weasleys anything. She didn't want them making contingency plans.
Susan even got in on it, after she had read the letter and had it explained what was happening. She
was almost as upset as the couple was when she got all the details. Finally the letter was written
and sent back with Pig.

*"Ron,*

*"As far as what happened at Gringott's, I really can't say. Although I
wasn't asked to take any oaths, I also wasn't privy to everything. I was separated after a
time and was escorted home by Amelia Bones, who graciously volunteered, which gave me time to ask
her about the DMLE and what I would have to learn to work there.*

*"Please apologize to your mother as with everything that has happened; I cannot come to
the Burrow this summer. My parents and I have plans which will involve pretty much all of the time
until we go back to Hogwarts. As these plans have been in place for a bit, they cannot be
changed.*

*"I don't know the details of what Harry inherited, but honestly: Do you really
expect Harry to start acting like Malfoy? I don't think he has it in him -- you know how much
he hates that attitude. I'm sure we will hear all about it when we travel to Hogwarts.*

*"I'm nervous about OWL results; I hope they come out soon. They are very important
to our futures. I'm looking forward to NEWT classes.*

*"I will see you on the Hogwarts Express if I don't have opportunity to see you
before that."*

*"Love,*

*"Hermione"*

Everything she had written was true -- when one looked at it from a particular viewpoint. She
wasn't privy to everything -- she had no idea what the Malfoys or Snape would ultimately do.
She had been separated -- when she had left the meeting with everyone else. She did have plans for
the rest of the summer -- stay as far away from the Weasleys as she could. She didn't know what
Harry had inherited -- he didn't know everything either at this point. And she was nervous
about OWLs -- important to her future as well as Harry's. The fact she said "our
futures" could be interpreted any way Ron wanted -- it was none of her concern. The biggest
stretch was "Love, Hermione". Then again one would have to know the words that were left
out -- "I would LOVE to see you hexed into oblivion"; Hermione didn't think the full
sentence would help hide things though.

The three laughed together at the deliberately ambiguous wording, knowing Ron and the rest of
the Weasleys would take it as they wanted. Then again, the Weasleys would soon be very
distracted.

After this, they made their way down to watch the next movie in the Star Wars saga.

The next morning, the two Weasley adults and two youngest Weasley children were discussing the
letter that Ron had received. The tone of the letter was distant, but then again Hermione's
mentions of learning and classes implied nothing had really changed. She was just as much of a
know-it-all as she was at Hogwarts so there were no real surprises. They would have to send
something with more loyalty potions and the love potion though.

Suddenly there was a knock on the door. Arthur opened it to find Amelia Bones and several
Aurors. "Arthur, I have some news; can we come in?"

The Weasleys were nervous; the number of Aurors didn't bode well, although they assumed that
they were just bodyguards as Amelia had had several since the attack on her home and Arthur knew
that.

"Ah, they very people I wanted to see. We have a problem. As you all know, I was appointed
Harry Potter's magical guardian by Sirius Black during his will." She never mentioned, of
course, that he had been emancipated within a short few minutes after that. "I have inspected
his mail as a part of my duties." As an Auror, and at the request of Harry of course.
"Imagine my surprise when the package of treacle tarts he received yesterday tested positive
for potions. I think we have some questions we want to have you all answer down at the
Ministry."

Thursday afternoon at 5:30, Harry found himself approaching Longbottom Manor. Instead of waiting
until Friday, Harry had gone to Gringott's already to sort out his parents' wills and to do
a final check on the proposition he had made to Amelia Bones. Hermione was with Harry to support
him; both trusted Neville and knew he wouldn't spill the beans of he was asked not to.

The Grangers had rearranged their day so that they could help Harry with advice at the bank. It
meant calling their service a day early, but as they had planned for their vacation time to start
the next day it wasn't much of a change. Most of the clients who expected and demanded to see
them personally for their regularly scheduled visits had already completed them, and the rest would
wait until after their vacation.

Harry knocked on the door as was greeted formally by Neville. He then whispered, "Protocol,
or Gran would kill me." The two visitors nodded slightly to show they heard before responding
formally to the invitation. Neville the led them into the drawing room, where Augusta Longbottom
was waiting.

"Welcome, Mr. Potter. The peace of the Manor is extended to you and Ms. Granger as long as
you are here."

"Thank you, Madam Longbottom. I welcome the peace of the Manor and express my sincere hope
for your family's comfort." Amelia had taught Harry a few things when the plans were being
made the night before. Hermione echoed Harry's response.

"Now that the formalities are out of the way, I wanted to express my thanks for your
efforts this year. Neville has proven himself worthy of the Longbottom name under your
tutelage."

"Mrs. Longbottom, there was never any doubt in my mind. At the end of the battle at the
Ministry, there were two people standing before backup arrived: Myself and your grandson. Even
injured and without a wand, he proved himself a fighter. I was proud to have him at my side."
Augusta Longbottom's eyes gleamed at the praise for her family although Neville blushed a
bit.

"Thank you, Mr. Potter. Would you or your lovely companion like refreshments?" Harry
and Hermione took the seats that the dowager Lady indicated.

"Some tea would be nice." After a house elf had served the four tea and scones, the
conversation got underway.

"In your message earlier today, you expressed a desire to speak to me urgently. What can
House Longbottom do for you?" Harry definitely noticed Mrs. Longbottom's tendency toward
formality.

"I find that I have need of someone I can trust. Can I speak plainly and in
confidence?" Augusta nodded. "Recently my Godfather passed away. You may have been aware
of this." She nodded her head. "At the will reading and after, several things came to my
attention. First of all, I was emancipated."

"I had not heard this. I had heard Amelia Bones became your magical guardian."

"That was misdirection on the part of my godfather. He did not trust all of the
participants and the information came toward the end when most of the people had already been given
their inheritances and left. Only myself, Ms. Granger here, Amelia Bones, Auror Tonks, Remus Lupin
and Fred and George Weasley were aware of this outside of the goblins at Gringott's."

"What about the rest of the Weasleys? I have heard that one is you closest
friend."

"This information has not gotten out yet, and I don't know when it will. I trust your
discretion in this, as well as your grandson's." Augusta sat straighter. "Several
members of the family have betrayed me, as has Albus Dumbledore."

Unsurprisingly, Neville was shocked to hear this. At the same time, Madam Longbottom didn't
show any expression. "Can you explain?"

Harry, with Hermione's help at different parts, explained everything he had learned the week
before. When he was done, even Mrs. Longbottom, cynical of Dumbledore's motives as she already
was through long experience, was shocked at what she heard. "And how did you become aware of
this?"

"I had the aid of the Lone Traveler."

Madam Longbottom spluttered, "But that's just a legend."

Harry smiled ruefully, "A legend based in fact. One day, when we have time, I will tell you
the full story." He took out his wand and held it in front of his face. "I, Harry James
Potter, offer Oath on my magic and life that what I have said to August Longbottom and Neville
Longbottom in the last thirty minutes is true to best of my knowledge. So Mote it Be!" He then
shot sparks from his wand to show that he had not violated this oath.

Both Longbottoms sat back in shock at all of the revelations. Finally, Augusta Longbottom
responded.

She took her wand out and put it in front of her face, "I, Augusta Longbottom, current
Regent of the House of Longbottom, pledge House Longbottom to support House Potter in any way it
can to defeat our common enemies. This alliance shall last until the the Heads of both Houses
formally agree otherwise. So Mote it Be!" She then shot sparks out of her wand.

"House Potter accepts the pledge of House Longbottom and promises its aid in return at
need. This shall last until the Head of both Houses formally agree otherwise. So Mote it Be!"
He shot sparks back.

"Mr. Potter, how may House Longbottom aid House Potter?"

"Madam, House Potter holds three votes in the Wizengamot. Before my emancipation, proxy was
held by Albus Dumbledore. As the new Head of House Potter, I ask that you accept proxy for the
Potter votes until I turn 21, unless the Head of Longbottom changes before that time. I also ask
that you use these votes to the best of your ability to help protect the Magical world against
those that would see it stagnated or destroyed. House Black, which I also hold Head of House rights
to, is being voted by Andromeda Black Tonks. I ask that you ally with her in the Wizengamot to
bring about necessary measures. If there is opportunity, I ask that you consult me for my position.
If not, I ask you to vote your conscience."

After a moment's thought, Madam Longbottom replied, "I agree to this request. I will
accept the votes once proxies have been filed."

Harry took a sheaf of paper from under his robe and handed them to her. "Already done. As I
know Neville and trust him, I decided that House Longbottom held sufficient honor."

Augusta was impressed at the implied trust shown. That it was already filed meant that as of
3:00 that afternoon, House Longbottom already held proxy subject only to her signature. She would
have fun ruining Albus Dumbledore's position whenever possible.

When everything was said and done, Harry had one more thing. "Hermione, can you excuse us
for just one minute?" Hermione looked intrigued, but decided that Harry could be trusted --
until she got him alone to force him to tell her what he was doing. Harry and the Longbottoms moved
to the other side of the room and spoke quietly. When they returned, both Harry and Neville had big
grins. Even Augusta Longbottom was smiling.

Now Hermione was very curious. She would have to get him alone after dinner before Hannah
arrived for the sleepover.



13. Chapter 13
--------------

Thursday dinner found Hermione eyeing Harry and the small smirk he had when they had come back
from the Longbottoms courtesy of Dobby. Harry had taken the their friend and his Grandmother aside
for something and since then, he had been quite close-mouthed. She would get it out of him.

Right as the dinner was complete, however, Susan dragged Hermione upstairs saying,
"Hannah's going to be here in 20 minutes. We have to get ready." Harry kissed her on
the cheek and waved as she was forcefully escorted upstairs to freshen up.

At 7:59, the doorbell chimed and Susan, after a quick look at the Grangers for permission, went
to the door and opened it to find Amelia Bones escorting Hannah.

Hannah started with, "The bobbies got me." To which Amelia added, "Do you know
this delinquent?"

The people in the house laughed as Susan squealed and pulled her closest friend in a hug. Harry
was the one who said, "Thanks, Amelia," as Susan took Hannah and Hermione toward the
family room. When the girls heard him, they all turned and ran back and hugged the woman, although
Hermione was slightly more hesitant. However, as it seemed to be the order of the day, she just
went with it. She was much less hesitant as Harry and even the Grangers were included in the thank
you hugs before once again Susan dragged the two toward the family room again.

After the girls had made their way out of the room, Harry looked at Robert and said,
"It's going to be a long night, isn't it?" Robert laughed even as Emma and Amelia
looked at Harry with fond annoyance. His only reply was, "Hey, I'm starting to feel quite
outnumbered. Besides Robert here, I'm the only other guy." Although the smile when he said
that seemed to indicate there was more to it.

Before Emma could question it, there was another chime at the door. Harry rushed to the door and
opened it. Neville was standing there with Tonks and Remus with a big smile on their face. The
girls had returned in response to the chime just in time to hear Harry say to Neville, "Thank,
Merlin! I was starting to feel quite outnumbered with only me and Robert as the men against the
gaggle of women in the house." Neville laughed even as the teenagers in the background started
protesting good naturedly.

For Emma and Robert's part, seeing their daughter act as a normal teenage girl with friends
and a boyfriend eased a lot of the worries that had gradually built up over the years as Hermione
seemed more and more to move away from her mundane roots and more and more into the magical
world.

Neville looked toward the girls and waved as he said, "Hello, girls. Harry invited me here
for backup, the Longbottoms have allied with Harry here, so here I am." Even as the girls
laughed at Neville's comment, they were noticing the changes in him even since the end of the
year. Hermione only noticed from an objective viewpoint -- her attentions were firmly fixed -- but
Susan and Hannah were not quite so objective. The two girls were very friendly in their greetings.
As the adults were welcoming Remus and Tonks to their home. Robert whispered to Emma that Harry had
invited the three.

Finally Robert said, "Well, it seems everyone's here. I'm going to take the boys
down to the pub while you girls ... do whatever it is that you girls do when the boys are not
around." Harry and Neville waved cheerfully as Neville and Remus followed Robert out of the
door. Tonks just laughed and Hermione and the two other girls welcomed her into the circle of
younger women. Both knew her as Amelia was Tonks' boss.

Amelia and Emma were quite amused as they made their way to the kitchen for tea and a chat.

Neville and Harry were both introduced to the game of darts as well as the pub atmosphere. Harry
had gone to a bar in Harrods with Robert during the shopping trip, but this was another thing
entirely. The bartender was a friend of Robert's and as a result the two teens had a chance for
a taste of ale. Harry found that his seeker skills in catching the snitch in no way translated to
throwing skills in darts. Robert and Remus quite thoroughly trashed them in the first games even
though the two adults were far more tipsy than the teenagers after a few drinks. Neither was drunk,
but both were in a happy state.

The third game was much closer as Harry found that if he pushed his magic in a certain way while
he was throwing it seemed to help him. Harry whispered instructions to Neville and it seemed to
help him a bit too -- after his first disastrous throw when he made his first attempt. In the end
however, experience trounced magic. As far as Harry was concerned, the humiliation of losing
spectacularly in the first games more than excused his attempts at cheating. Remus did stick his
tongue out at Harry when the game was done as he wiggled his fingers and laughed. He had caught
on.

The four men moved to the billiards table and Harry learned that his hand-eye coordination
counted for much more in this game. The team of Robert and Harry beat Remus and Neville. Harry and
Remus also beat Neville and Robert. And Harry and Neville won by a single ball against Robert and
Remus. Harry was celebrated as the king of the table.

As it was getting close to 10:00, the four made their way down the road back to the house. Remus
hit Robert with a sobering charm just in case, as he was driving. Robert's eyes gleamed at the
chance to enjoy his ale and still safely get home. Harry was then made to promise to learn the
spell before their vacation. In exchange, Hermione's father offered to teach him how to
drive.

The four men made their way to the front door chattering away with enthusiasm about the trip to
the pub. Neville never felt so ... accepted as he did at that moment. Unlike his time at home where
he had to live with his gran's expectations (except when he could escape to the greenhouses)
and his time at Hogwarts where he was considered either clumsy, or later treated with awe because
of his work on the DA with Harry, Neville felt like a regular guy out having a good time with some
friends. The fact that magic played little or no part in it whatsoever (outside of that one game of
darts) mattered very little to him.

Although he prided himself in his Herbology skills as well as the skills he had learned for the
DA, in the end Neville just wanted looked at as a regular guy, and as a good friend. He was getting
his first taste of it, and he was looking forward to more chances in the future.

Robert had enjoyed spending time with not only Harry, but Remus and Neville as well. As a
dentist, he didn't have nearly as many casual friends as he had in his uni days. The people he
tended to spend time with were other dentists and professionals who spent far too much time talking
shop and being "proper". He wasn't trying to recapture his youth, but he definitely
enjoyed the rare chance to have a couple of cold ones and a few games with friends at the pub.

Remus had enjoyed himself as well. With the loss of his friends from his teenage years, he was
not used to the easy camaraderie that he had missed these last fifteen years. Even in his later
teenage years, time spent with friends was a rare commodity with the pressure of classes in the
final year of Hogwarts and war after. When Sirius had escaped and they had been reunited, the
problem of his fugitive status, the Order of the Phoenix activities and the troubles Harry had to
endure on a regular basis still tended to distract from the chance to just have a good time. His
status as a werewolf had never helped either. He still missed his friends, even Peter traitor
though he was, but with Harry's new independence, the relationship with Dora and the
relationships with the family of his girlfriend and now the cub's girlfriend's family, he
was starting to feel almost ... normal.

Harry just reveled in the chance to have some fun away from those that would gawk and stare or
try to control or attack him. He also decided that Neville was a much more fun person to spend time
with than Ron ever was. Without the jealousy and need to be careful to avoid or accidentally
insulting Ron's pride, Harry decided that Neville as a friend was much less stressful.

When they made it in the door, they looked around and didn't see anyone. But they heard some
chattering and some giggles coming from the family room. Robert put his finger to his lips and
whispered to them. They then snuck over to the door and Robert held 3 fingers up. He quietly
counted down as he pulled each finger down. At zero, he pulled the door open violently and the four
men shouted, "WE'RE BACK!!"

As no one in the room had expected it, every one of those in the room jumped and screamed.
Remus, Marauder that he was, asked, "Miss up, ladies?" Harry just grinned along with
Robert and Neville was shyly smiling as well. The girls in the room paused for a moment to settle
their heartbeats, Hermione said a word to the other women, they each grabbed pillows from around
the room that they had been sitting on and stood up, although Tonks, who was sitting on the floor
with the teenagers, and Amelia, who was sitting in a chair as was Emma, took out their wands. .

Robert took one look at them, turned to the others and said, "Err. I think we should make a
run for it." Emma and Amelia decided the four younger women had it well in hand as they sat
back down. The boys could be heard screaming as they raced through the other rooms in the house as
the yells of the four younger women could be heard in pursuit. Tonks, clumsy woman that she was,
tripped and knocked over the three other girls. The males got a good lead because of this and made
it around to the other door in the family room.

Robert led the four men with Remus pulling up the rear looking back. Robert prostrated himself
right in front of Emma and looked at her with puppy dog eyes from his knees and said, "Save
me?" The other males hid behind the couch and expressed their own desires to be saved,
forgetting for a moment that the back of the couch faced the door that they had just come
through..

Robert was so cute that Emma leaned over and kissed him before sitting back and saying,
"No." Suddenly the throw pillow she had reached back and grabbed from behind her was
streaking sideways into his arm, knocking him down. The other men laughed themselves silly watching
his look of betrayal. The girls followed on the heels of this and looked at the scene. They looked
at each other and moved forward. Tonks hit Remus with a tickling hex, as the teenage girls went for
a more manual approach. Harry was soon being tickled by Hermione and somehow Neville was being
tickled by Susan and Hannah. Emma had taken a look at the teenagers, looked at Robert, looked at
the teenagers again and then decided that it was a suitable punishment and started in on her
husband.

Finally the men had cried for mercy sufficiently, even through their laughter, that the women
had taken pity on them and let them up. Everyone around the room was laughing. Neville was blushing
at the same time. Amelia, who had just sat and watched, was actually laughing almost as hard as the
men had while under attack.

After all had settled down, Emma looked at the boys and said, "Okay you lot. Go and get
cleaned up. We're going to watch the last movie in the series."

Neville and Remus had to have it explained to them what Emma was talking about. As they moved to
the second floor, Neville got lost in the explanations, although Remus admitted he had seen the
movies 15 years earlier. He also admitted that he had never had the opportunity to see the last
one, as it had come out at a time that he was generally keeping himself away from society.

Neville was shown to Harry's room, as it was decided that he would stay with Harry while the
girls bunked together. Although he was going to miss spending the night with Hermione -- they
hadn't moved much past hands but what they had done with those hands was quite exhilarating --
he was actually happy to see Hermione spend time with other girls and he was looking forward to
talking to Neville more about what was happening with his life.

Everyone made it back down to the family room at about the same time. Amelia had excused herself
as she had last minute politicking to do in preparation for the next day. She was planning on
arriving back in the guest room by apparition after having gotten permission from the Grangers. She
had told Tonks to take the night off and she would make sure that she had Aurors around her when
she was at the Ministry. Tonks decided that she was sufficiently protected and chose to stay and
enjoy herself.

When Remus had shown back up with the boys, Tonks and Hermione had stood up next the the large
plush chairs they had been sitting in and motioned for their respective men to sit down. Tonks then
sat down next to Remus, half on her own and half on his lap, and put her head on his chest and
turned toward the TV screen. Hermione and Harry were both slender enough that they fit in the
chair, although it was a tight squeeze. Neither seemed to mind as they got comfortable. Neville
nervously say on the couch between his two Hufflepuff classmates and after they nodded to each
other, each sat back and leaned against his two shoulders. He sat rock still until the girls had
grabbed his arms and each placed the one they had grabbed on their shoulders before leaning against
him again. Neville was getting a crash course in snuggling.

Robert came in shortly thereafter and took a look around the dim room. He saw the position each
person was in, shrugged and turned off the main lights as Emma hit the remote on the VCR and the
video started. He then made his way to the loveseat next to his wife and sat back to enjoy the
movie.

Earlier that evening, the girls looked at the door where Robert had taken the men out. Susan had
corralled the women into the sitting room for some serious gossip.

When the four had settled, Hannah looked at Hermione and said, "So, you and Harry, huh. I
want details." Susan giggled as Hermione blushed.

Hermione then took on her best lecturing tone and said, "Well, long story short: He loves
me, I love him, my parents are very supportive, and I have learned quite a few things." She
then blushed and giggled again.

Tonks piped in, "Not that I care -- I have my wolfie -- but would some of those things
worthy of envy if you said too much?"

Hermione slyly said, "Possibly."

Hannah turned to Susan, "Okay, give! What do you know." Susan looked at Hermione, who
nodded before she continued.

"Well, I've been here a couple of days. Since last week when Aunt Amelia went to
Gringott's, she's been involved a lot with Harry. Harry also warned her of that
attack."

Hannah was surprised. "How did he know?"

Hermione said, "He won't say. He has someone telling him things and they have worked.
He won't say who as it would endanger the person." Harry had refused to tell even Hermione
about Fawkes.

"Wait. Harry hasn't told you? Doesn't seem like him." Hannah was confused.
Everyone knew Harry talked to Hermione about everything.

"Well, except this one thing, I know pretty much everything. But because he can't say
on this."

"Well, Susan, good thing your Aunt had Aurors with her."

Susan, Hermione and Tonks looked at each other. Tonks then turned to Hannah and said, "If
we tell you, you have to promise it goes no further. The only reason we're willing to tell you
is because we know how close you are with Susan here."

Hannah replied, "Of course. So what is it?"

Hermione paused and said, "It wasn't several Aurors. It was Tonks, Professor Lupin,
Amelia -- and Harry."

Hannah was shocked. "Wait! Harry? Harry faced off against You-Know-Who again?"
Everyone around her nodded solemnly. "Why doesn't anyone know?"

"He doesn't want anyone who doesn't need to know to know about it. This is actually
the sixth time he's face Voldemort." The teenagers flinched. "Oh, settle down;
it's just a name and made one up at that." When the three others looked confused, Hermione
explained Tom Riddle and Voldemort.

"Wait! He's a half-blood? How come no one knows this?"

Hermione replied, "Well, several do. All of us, Dumbledore, the Weasleys, Draco and
Narcissa Malfoy, several professors and Amelia. It came up at Sirius's will reading in a
comment he made and Harry had already told me and the Weasleys."

"And what's up with the Weasleys? I see Susan, Harry, Neville, you and Professor Lupin.
I would have thought the youngest would be included, especially Ron."

Hermione, Susan and Tonks all looked sad for a moment before explaining about the Weasleys'
betrayal. They also explained Dumbledore's part in is.

Hannah just looked at them in shock. She would have never guessed in a million years. Finally
she said, "So, what are you two doing about it?"

"Well, besides taking care of everything that our illustrious Headmaster has been hiding
from Harry, we are keeping away from the Weasleys as much as possible. No one knows that Harry is
with me, and Tonks and Remus report to Dumbledore that they don't know. Also, we have told
Amelia pretty much everything as the head of the DMLE. After we got checked for spells and potions
and got several cleared out, we got together."

Susan added, "And they sleep in the same room every night." She smirked at
Hermione's embarrassed smile.

"Okay, you'll have to explain everything else later. Back to what's important. I
want details. How far have you two gone?"

Hermione was hesitating, although really she wanted to brag to every girl in Hogwarts. After
all, she had Harry all to herself. "Well, we haven't gone further than hands, but
we've seen everything and what we do has been ..." Hermione shuddered a bit as she thought
about it, "quite nice."

Susan, Hannah, and Tonks looked at her. The two teenage girls were a bit jealous but not rudely
so. "And just how big is Harry Jr.?"

Hermione took on a smirk as she said, "Let's just say it will never be called
'Little Harry'."

All of the girls giggled and then pressed her for more detail. Finally, Hermione held up her
hands a certain distance apart and then nodded when the two girls looked surprised. "And
he's still just 15. It usually keeps growing a bit until the mid-20s. Both length and
width."

"Really? I didn't know that!" Tonks said loudly.

Emma and Amelia both entered the family room right at that time. Amelia asked, "What
didn't you know?"

Tonks spluttered and the girls had guilty expressions on their face, except for Hermione. She
didn't know Amelia well enough to say and unlike the other teenagers she wasn't of the same
age range. She wasn't embarrassed but, she was reluctant.

Emma looked at Hermione's face and then at the other girls and then asked Amelia, "Are
you offended when girls talk about boys and their bits?"

Amelia looked at Emma, looked at the younger women and then let out a loud laugh. "Oh, is
THAT all? I don't know about muggles, but with witches it's actually considered
normal."

Emma was curious. "Why is that?"

"Well, a number of things. First of all, historically in wizarding society the woman's
main role is making an heir. If there are problems, very frank and very detailed discussions about
... mechanics shall we say ... mechanics is not uncommon. Also, because of the number of hexes and
curses that involve that area of the body, it just has to be common knowledge both for healers and
for women in general, especially mothers. Also, witches like to gossip." She pointed at the
four younger women. All smiled sheepishly and the two older women laughed.

Emma added, "Well, with us muggles, it's considered 'rude' by a lot of uptight
people. Truth be told, that was mostly Queen Victoria's doing. She was brought up quite
isolated by her mother, and all references to sex were removed from the history books. Before that,
it was much more of an open subject. Personally, I think it's silly. Hermione and I have always
had very ... complete discussions about things."

Amelia replied, "Well, that answers that. Since the wizarding world is still stuck in the
1700s, we never got around to changing the books."

All of the women laughed at that, although not very hard -- unfortunately, it was too true.

"So, anyway, Tonks. What didn't you know?"

"Hermione was explaining that a man's bits keep growing until their mid-20s."

Emma nodded her head as she had already known the fact. The others, who were not up on
scientific knowledge, were a bit surprised. "As a medical professional who had to spend time
in medical school before specializing in dentistry I can tell you that is a known fact."

Tonk's turned to Hermione. "So, how big was he again?" Hermione blushed and looked
at the adults. Emma actually knew -- she would never tell Harry that Hermione talked so openly to
her. Amelia looked on with interest.

Finally Hermione held her thumbs together and carefully moved her index fingers closer and
further until she had it just about right and then help up her hands in that position in front of
her face.

Amelia, who despite being older by a bit more than a generation -- closer to one and a half
generations -- cleared her throat and said, "Well, all I can say is -- impressive."

Emma said, "Yes. A bit on the large side of normal for an average man but when it grows
it's likely to reach this size." She held her fingers similarly to how Hermione had held
hers. All of the other women in the room goggled. "I think if you last, and I can see that you
plan to, you'll have quite the bit to play with for quite a number of years." Emma grinned
at her daughter's blush.

Susan was a bit gobsmacked. Finally she asked quietly, "And how big around?" Hermione
held her thumb and index finger so she formed a circle with them and then turned her hand toward
the others. The two teenage girls looked at her hand, and then looked at Emma with a questioning
look. Emma measured the circle Hermione was making with her own fingers and then adjusted them
slightly to show how it would be when he had grown up fully.

Needless to say, the two teenagers who hadn't had many such discussions, especially with
adults around, lapped up the information, and all the women became quite giggly with the discussion
as it continued in more detail.

After an hour and a half, the two girls looked at each other and then asked Hermione about
Neville, as they were not in Gryffindor. Hermione explained Neville's bravery and then offered
that he was unattached. The two girls looked at each other silently until Susan said, "Share.
Until he picks one ore until we decide we like it. Deal?"

Hannah nodded her head and shook Susan's hand. The other women, except Amelia, were shocked
at how easily the two girls agreed to such an unusual thing. The two girls looked at each other and
then looked at Hermione and said in unison, "Hufflepuff Loyalty".

The giggling continued as the discussion ranged more toward the other boy who would be present
apparently.

In the middle of the discussion, suddenly the door opened violently and the men who had left
earlier were standing in the door and yelled, "We're back!" They all had screamed a
bit in their shock. Remus Lupin asked, "Miss us, ladies?" The women calmed their hearts
and breaths and then looked at the smugly smiling males. She turned toward the other women and
said, "Pillows". They all nodded and made a grab for them as the moved toward the
grinning idiots. The grins melted off their faces, and then Hermione's dad said something about
running and they took off. The girls took off after them.



14. Chapter 14 - Lemon at the End
---------------------------------

Harry sat in the window seat in the 747 that had taken them on the transatlantic flight to
Harry's first true vacation in his life. He smiled as he remembered the last three days and how
much fun it was being a regular person for a short time.

The morning before, Hannah and Susan had been taken by Amelia back to Hannah's home to
continue to spend time together and Neville had been returned to the Longbottoms by Tonks. The
Grangers and Harry had spent the rest of the day Saturday packing and making final preparations for
the flight that was scheduled the next day on Sunday.

Harry and Hermione had laughed as they packed talking about Neville and the two Hufflepuffs. The
five had spent two nights and a day together having fun and being teenagers. Hermione had been
teased a lot when the girls had made it to the bedroom after the movie, and Hermione had returned
the favor but Hannah and Susan didn't blush as much as Hermione did, or so Hermione had
explained to Harry the next day.

As a result, Harry had agreed to the truth or dare game that was planned for the second night as
a means of revenge for the ribbing Hermione had received. Neville was too shy to tease Harry, but
even he could see Neville gaining more confidence because of the two girls that had decided to
attach themselves to him. After, Harry and Hermione had catcalled when the two girls had said their
private goodnights to their not-quite-as-shy Gryffindor friend. That had been in retaliation for
the catcalling that the two had to endure when they had sneaked away in the afternoon for some
private time.

Harry had also picked up the necessary papers Saturday from Gringott's to travel. He was
polite, but decided that the goblins seemed perfectly happy to allow him to come in, do his
business, and get out without any long formalities. He had made it a point to meet the warriors who
had helped with the ritual as he had promised them the week before. They were less gruff with him
than goblins usually were and thanked him personally for the bonus.

As the four made their way through customs, Harry and Hermione noticed a desk that none of the
other passengers seemed to notice. When the guard saw the two notice him, he waved them over and
pointed at the two parents to indicate they should be included.

When they approached the desk, the guard said, "Welcome to the United States. Now, you know
why you were called to dis Customs desk?" The guard seemed very polite about it, although he
had a strange accent.

Hermione said, "I assume it's because of the fact we could see you, which means that it
is likely that it has something to do with this." At that she pulled the end of her wand out
of her purse as she looked at him.

"Very good. And nicely done. If I wadn't a wizard, I wouldn't have a clue. Now, as
magicals you gotta check in and have your wands registered. Der's no tracking or anything like
dat, but if you get into trouble there's gonna be some record of who you are. Now, all of ya
magical?"

Hermione shook her head. "My parents here are muggles."

The guard tensed for a moment and then relaxed as he said, "I should warn ya. In the good
ole U S of A, we don't say 'muggle' -- it's kinda insultin'. Like calling
someone like me a dego or a wop. The word ya wanna use is 'mundane'. Now, I'm used to
the way a lot of folks talk when dey come through, but in general it's a bad idea. Another word
ya wanna avoid is 'squib'. What you call squibs, we call 'magical mundanes' --
although unless it's needed for some reason, usually they just call themselves
'mundane' and leave it wit dat. It's not a common ting, but it happens. You
understand?" The two teenagers and the two adults nodded.

"Now, we're gonna go in dat door when all of da people from dis plane are through and I
know der ain't no more magicals. We do dis cause it makes it easier for magicals and related
folks to learn the rules -- and it's faster than mundane Customs. So don't worry about
being singled out."

The four waited another 10 minutes until the rest of the plane's passengers moved into the
mundane Customs and no others noticed the desk.

Then the guard led them into a room which was very comfortable looking. The benches were
upholstered, unlike the mundane section, and it had a much more roomy feel. The guard noticed them
looking and said, "We figure if a magical actually goes through customs and don't sneak
in, dey gotta be pretty reasonable. So we make it more comfortable for em." The visitors
chuckled at the guards cheeky grin.

"Now, let me see da passports." Each of the four took their passports from their
pockets and handed them over to the guard. He pulled out a keyboard and mouse attached to a long
cord and a display showed on his desk.

Hermione had to ask, "How do you get electronics to work with magic?"

The guard, as he entered information from her parents' passports, said, "Oh, the
keyboard and mouse are connected to a computer dat's behind a shielded wall. The display is a
charm which is at a distance from the electronic monitor and just shows what it shows. Der are
newer electronics dat are actually shielded enough to be used in da room, but you know how da
government is. It's either don't spend no money or spend a bucketload more den dey need
to." The four laughed at the friendly man's comment.

Once he had entered the information, he stamped the two passports and handed them back and went
on to Hermione's. He asked for Hermione's wand and then entered more information into the
computer. He stamped her passport with a different stamp and said, "This is a special stamp.
If you get into trouble, make sure you show dis to da magical officer or agent, so dey know you
checked in right." Hermione thanked him. He took Harry's passport and when he saw the name
he said, "Hey, I've heard of ya. Dat psycho wizard attacked you as a kid, right?"
Harry nodded, wondering how much hero worship he would have to deal with in the United States.
"Well, good fer you for making it out alive." He then continued entering Harry's
information. When he saw his age, he asked, "Des your guardians?"

Harry shook his head. "I'm emancipated. If you have to contact an adult because of my
age, you'd contact Amelia Bones. She has given permission, if it's needed." Harry
handed the guard the forms.

"It's no big deal, but you gotta have next of kin listed." He finished with the
passport, checked Harry's wand and then stamped his passport with the magical stamp and handed
everything back. "Okay. Now, da laws are different here den in other places. Da law says as
soon as you can use a wand, you can use a wand anywhere as long as no mundane who don't know
about magicals becomes aware. A lot of mundane places got cameras, so you have to take dat into
account. If you do make a mistake, make sure you call dis number." He handed them a business
card each. He also handed cards to the adults.

The card said, "Department of Magical Services, Accident Report Line, 800-555-6244."
The Grangers however saw "DepartMent of Special services, Report Line, 800-555-6244." The
guard pointed out the difference which was caused by a charm. The odd spelling for the mundane view
was so the letters stayed tfhe same.

"Now, I should tell ya dat if dey have to come more den three times in a week, der's a
fine of 50 bucks. After dat, more den once a week will get you a fine. How long you here
for?"

"3 weeks."

"Well, you don't gotta worry about da other limit, but if dey get called more den 12
times a year, it's also 50 bucks each time. Da DMS figures mistakes are easy to make, but too
many and it's jus someone being stupid." Harry and Hermione looked at each other and then
nodded at the guard.

"Now, you got da right to defend yourself. If DMS clears you, dat don't count toward da
limit. Cause der's no penalty for DMS being called out, private memory charms are illegal.
First time in a 5 year period is a civil infraction, second one is a misdemeanor, third time is a
felony. If der's sufficient cause, you won't be cited. Like I said, people got rights here.
Now, either of you bonded to any magical creature?"

Harry said, "Well, we left our familiars at home. I have two house elves that work for
me."

"Well, I'm gotta warn ya: If a sentient magical creature is attacked or abused,
it's a felony. A bond is legal, but magical creatures got rights too. We don't allow
slavery. If a bonded creature is abused, we call it slavery -- and dat's a felony."

Harry and Hermione smiled and Hermione said, "That's much better than at home."
The guard was impressed that the two visitors agreed with the American view on bonds.

"Okay, here's an address for da magical tourist information center. Der's one in da
airport -- and here's one in da city if you ain't at da airport." He pushed a button
and a door opened in the wall, showing their luggage. "You don't need to go down to the
luggage section. Like I said, we make it easier if you gotta do Magical Customs. Now, where ya
going next?"

Robert said, "We actually have a night booked at the Holiday Inn here at the airport. We
pick up a car tomorrow."

The guard nodded. "Okay. All I gotta do is set the door here and it'll put you in the
front desk area." He walked to the door and hit a combination of buttons and pressed his wand
to a slot for it and muttered something. He turned and said, "Okay. It's set. You need
anything else at Customs?"

Everyone looked at each other and then they all said no. They all also thanked the Customs Agent
for being so helpful and then made their way through the door. They passed through a small room and
then opened the door on the other side and it opened into the lobby of the Holiday Inn.

As their biological clocks still said it was late afternoon, they decided to find the closest
restaurant and get something to eat after they put their luggage in their rooms.

Later, Hermione and Harry learned what every traveler who visits a hotel knows: staying in a
hotel tends to encourage sexual relations. The two had quite an evening of sensual massage and
manual stimulation which left both quite sated. When they were done, they decided they needed a
late night snack. Hermione was about to knock on her parents door to ask them if they wanted
something as well, but Harry stopped her with a quiet comment. "If we got up to what we did,
what do you think your parents are doing?" Hermione blushed and the two made their way the
closest vender that sold muffins and juice.

It was the second full day of the road trip. They had spent a day looking up travel information
and had started on the road. Harry had a hard time getting used to the cars driving on the wrong
side of the road. It was weird to him. Robert almost had an accident coming out of the parking lot
when he had forgotten. After the adrenalin had worn off, the four shared a small -- very small --
chuckle. Once they had gotten on the road, they had found their way to Philadelphia. They had
stopped overnight in the city at a hotel, and then had taken in the sights, after a breakfast of
eggs and scrapple. Harry's comment on the mystery meat was "Well, at least it tastes
good".

Although they were British, they could respect the efforts of a people to fight against the
oppression of a ruler who ran roughshod over them. Independence Hall was interesting. The Liberty
Bell actually caused Harry to tear up. When he had seen the the phrase, "Proclaim LIBERTY
throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants thereof", he had asked the information center
what the letters after the quote meant. It was a biblical quote: "*And ye shall hallow the
fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof: it
shall be a jubile unto you; and ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return
every man unto his family.*" The idea liberty relating to the return to family caught
him.

They had then learned what a "Philadelphia Cheese Steak" was -- Pat's and
Geno's were both visited and Harry decided he'd have to learn to cook that.

They were on the way to Ohio. Hermione was looking over several pamphlets. She suddenly piped up
with, "Hey, there's a magical settlement near Columbus. Will we have time to go
there?"

Robert, who was in the passenger seat, looked at his map. "Well, we'll be a bit north
of that. We were planning on stopping in Cleveland at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I supposed we
could take an extra day -- as long as we're back in New York in 2 weeks and 4 days, we can do
anything we want. What do the rest of you think?" Emma nodded her acceptance and Harry would
always take Hermione's suggestions. Hermione hugged her father from behind.

After stopping in Cleveland -- Robert was REALLY into the Rock and Roll Museum and they had
spent longer there than originally planned -- and visiting the National Inventor's Hall of Fame
in nearby Akron, the group continued on their way toward Columbus. They stopped at a restaurant
which served an American dish called pancakes. Harry, isolated as he was growing up, learned that
it was a breakfast food but he figured it tasted just as good as dinner and could understand why
the place specialized in it. Emma, however, spent a good few minutes lamenting the effect of syrup
on their teeth. Robert, who had been the one who had suggested the particular meal, very maturely
explained that they were on vacation, it was not a regular thing, and then stuck his tongue out at
her. Everyone, even Emma, had a good laugh about it.

Later that night, the group stopped at a rest stop before midway between Akron and Columbus,
where they planned on getting a hotel. They were enjoying the trip immensely. Although the cities
were somewhat crowded, at least outside of New York none were as crowded as London back home and
there seemed to be much more space all over the place. It was a totally different feel.

Harry and Robert were coming out of the bathroom, having needed to relieve themselves. Emma and
Hermione had taken one look at the roadside facilities and decided they could wait until they
reached a hotel. It wasn't completely disgusting, but the two women claimed it was too much
like an outhouse and they didn't feel completely comfortable using the facilities if they
didn't have to. Consequently, the two women waited at a picnic table near the building.

As Robert was talking to Harry, Harry stopped because something felt -- off. He began to rush,
before he even realized he was worried. When he got into a position to see the women, he noticed a
man that had stopped at the previously desolate rest stop. The two women were aware of him and kept
an eye out, but something about the man screamed "danger" to Harry. The man was facing
the women seemingly intent and so did not see Harry coming from behind. Hermione saw Harry with
Robert behind him and felt immediate relief. Her face must have alerted the man as he swung around
toward Harry and began pulling something from his jacket pocket.

Harry had already been reaching for his wand when he was approaching, and as a result he needed
no time to aim and call out "Stupefy!" The man crumpled to the ground as the two women
rushed over to the the two and threw themselves at them.

Harry had a time trying to settle Hermione down. "I'm so sorry, Harry. I left my wand
in the car. The man started approaching and I knew he was trouble. He reminded me so much of the
Death Eaters. I was so worried ...." Harry decided at that moment to kiss her. It was the only
way he could think of to calm her down quick enough. It worked to, although Harry could see she was
still reacting. But she took on a forced calm to at least not worry her mother more than she
already was.

"It's okay, Hermione. I got you." He pulled his wand arm from around Hermione and
shot out an Incarcerous and then turned toward Robert, who seemed to have calmed Emma as well, and
said, "Go to the pay phone and call that number we got at customs. I'll keep a watch on
him."

When Robert and Emma came back, the two women reluctantly separated from them and went to the
car to get Hermione's wand. Robert stood next to Harry, thankful that the boy -- no, the man --
was with them and could protect his wife and daughter. He wordlessly patted Harry on the back as
the two men stood looking at the man on the ground in the magical restraints.

After 20 minutes, two cars with flashing lights pulled into the rest stop and two uniformed men
came out of each, all of them with their hands on their weapons although they didn't look like
they were going to draw.

Two of them went to deal with the man on the ground and two approached the two men and two
women. One of the men, who had three stripes on his arm versus two for the other driver, said,
"Ohio State Police, Special Services Section. What happened? Who subdued the man?"

Harry, who was the one who had stupefied the man, said "I did. He was menacing my
girlfriend and her mum when I came out of the loo. When he realized I was behind him, he started to
pull something from his pocket and I reacted."

The officer nodded at him. "I need to interview you alone. Are you a minor?"

"I'm 15, but I'm emancipated."

"Then you won't need an adult present. Please come to my car. My name is Sergeant
Jeffrey Swanson." He began to put a latex glove on his hand. "I'll have to ask you to
give me your wand; it's standard safety procedure to make sure anyone being interviewed
doesn't have a weapon. Do you understand?" The man obviously was making sure Hermione and
her parents could hear his instructions so they would know what was happening. The man was very
businesslike but Harry could sense that he was not in any danger. He turned his wand over, handle
first, and the officer took it. When the two got to the car, Harry was put in the backseat but the
door was left open. It was apparent to all present that he was not being treated as a criminal.

The second officer was getting the names and personal information from the others while Harry
was interviewed. When it was done, Hermione's father was questioned and then Hermione was taken
to the car with her father present as her guardian. Emma was then interviewed as well by the
man.

While Robert was being questioned, Hermione had to ask the officer a question, "Excuse me,
sir, I'm curious." The officer standing with the three not being currently questioned
looked at her. "I'm not trying to be offensive -- I'm just always curious about
things. But is there a reason you interview in the car and not here?"

The officer tensed slightly, even though he was outwardly calm. Harry interjected and smiled as
he said, "Really. She's a bookworm. Has to learn everything." The officer relaxed and
laughed at the grin Harry and Emma had and the sheepish expression on Hermione's face.

"Standard procedure. There is a recorder in the car to make sure that there is a video and
audio recording. Protects both us and the people we question."

Hermione nodded, "That makes sense."

Harry also had noted that the two officers who had gone to the man he had stunned were in the
other car. He was in handcuffs sitting in the back seat as one officer stood next to the open door
and the other was in the car typing on the computer.

Finally, the interviews were done and everyone was sitting at the picnic table waiting for the
officers to come back. The two that had interviewed them were talking to one of the officers from
the other car. When the discussion was over, the two came back.

"Here are your wands, passports and other papers." He spoke to Harry directly,
"You have good instincts. The man you stunned, Chase 'Chaz' Johnson, is a mundane
prior offender and has a warrant for his arrest pending for kidnapping, sexual assault, and assault
with a deadly weapon. What he was pulling out was a gun. He allegedly targets women in out of the
way places who are alone or only in pairs. You might have just saved many lives."

The group shuddered at what could have happened.

"As this was considered justified, there is no infraction for DMS violations. We report to
the federal jurisdiction and they always defer to the state authorities is such cases unless a
federal crime is involved. Now, there happens to be a $10000 reward that was posted for information
leading to the arrest of Johnson. Normally it's arrest and conviction, but this wasn't
posted by the Department of Public Safety. It is a privately funded reward by the father of the
girl who was last attacked by him. Here is the card with who to contact to collect your
reward." He began to hand Harry the card, but Harry refused.

"I don't need a reward. The fact that I protected my girlfriend and her mother is good
enough for me. Tell the man that I refused it."

The officers looked at Harry with approval, but Sergeant Swanson said, "The reward is
already deposited, and in these circumstances we actually don't have a choice but to disburse
it because as I said, the money doesn't come from the government. Besides, a little money can
go a long way for someone your age."

Harry thought about it a moment. "Is there a fund for victims?"

The officer nodded. "Victim Compensation Fund helps pay for counseling and to take care of
medical costs and lost wages for felony victims."

"Then I would like to donate the reward for that. I have enough money from inheritances and
I really don't need it. How can I donate it?"

The officer went to his car and returned with a form. Harry filled it out and handed it back.
Sergeant Swanson looked at it, and then looked at Harry. "The Department of Public Safety
thanks you for your generous donation." Harry nodded.

Two two officers actually shook Harry's hand as they said their goodbyes. Hermione and Emma
decided that with everything that had happened, they could no longer wait and the two made their
way to the facilities. Harry and Robert stood watch outside, neither willing to take any chances,
although both saw that the two officers had turned their emergency lights off and were apparently
waiting until the group was safely on their way.

The group took the first exit from the expressway that showed that there was a hotel. It was
getting late, and after the run-in with the attacker, none wanted to be out on the road anymore
that night.

They all made their way to the rooms and showered. Hermione didn't really want to be alone
and so the two teenagers showered together. After they had gotten in bed, Harry held Hermione who
was still a bit shook up from the earlier incident. After she had actually calmed down fully,
instead of looking like she had, she turned her head toward Harry and said, "Thanks, Harry. I
don't know how I would have handled this without you."

Harry smiled at her, "Anytime, Hermione. I will always protect you."

Hermione's face took on a thoughtful look as she looked past Harry for a moment. Her eyes
then landed back on Harry and she said, "Harry, I want to do something to thank you." She
pointed toward his bits to show what she meant.

"Hermione, Love, really no thanks is needed. Not that I don't want to ... well, anyway
... not that I don't appreciate the thought. But, I also don't want to take advantage of
you being upset. I want to make sure whatever we do, it's what we want and not because
something bad happened."

Hermione nodded her head and replied, "I understand and I agree. I want things between us
to happen for the right reason." She paused for a moment and then continued. "I've
actually wanted to do this for a couple of days -- nothing having to do with tonight." She
blushed. "What happened tonight is really just an excuse for me to do it."

Harry looked at her to see if what she was saying was true. Although his streak of nobility was
saying stop, his teenage body was reacting. It was much harder to be objective, but finally he
decided that she was telling the truth and it was just an excuse. He laughed, although he was
somewhat nervous and then quietly said, "Okay."

*** LEMON STARTING *** (If you want to skip it, you can go on to the next chapter -- when
it's posted of course.)

Hermione turned slightly in Harry's arms and kissed him. As her tongue played in his mouth,
her left hand moved down his chest, over his stomach and into his pubic hair. She then grasped his
member and moved her hand up and down on it. She withdrew her tongue from his mouth and moved down
to his chin and kissed him there, then his neck, and then down to his nipple.

She moved down his body so that she could lick each one for a moment before she continued down
by dragging her tongue between his two nipples and then down his body, past his sternum and to his
belly button. She dipped her tongue in while still moving her hand. She kissed her way down his
very sparse happy trail until she was right above his pubic hair.

She looked up at him and saw his eyes wide, watching her as she moved their physical
relationship to the next step. She smiled impishly at him and then moved her hand toward the bottom
of his member and then took her tongue and deliberately placed it at the small aperture at the end
of his penis. She licked down the underside and she took his testicles in her hand as she licked
the base and then moved her tongue back up toward the end.

She stopped watching his face and took a good look at the piece of flesh in her hand. It really
was very pretty to her, and she definitely enjoyed playing with it. She looked right at the end as
she moved her right hand on the base again while her other hand was slowly rubbing the sac below
it. She took one last look at his face as she deliberately took it in her mouth and deliberately
moved her lips down the turgid shaft. She saw his eyes grow even wider and then blissfully close as
he experienced this for the first time.

She alternated providing suction and then licking the glans and then back to providing suction.
She moved her hand on the shaft near the base while she moved her mouth up and down. Harry put his
hands through her thick hair while she did this, and she could tell that he was rapidly losing
control. When he started moaning her name and his breath became shallower and shallower, she
concentrated on just putting the corona of the glans in her mouth and moved her hand faster on the
shaft.

Suddenly he breathed out with effort, "Hermione ... I'm ... about ... to .... let go
...."

She was prepared. She had tasted his ejaculate before and while she didn't find it
particularly pleasant, she didn't find it particularly unpleasant either. And she had taken the
advice of her mother to heart -- men loved to see a woman swallow.

Harry gave out a loud, drawn out groan and liquid starting filling her mouth. She kept running
her hand up and down the shaft, but more slowly and concentrated on the spurting bulb in her mouth.
Finally, he relaxed and opened his eyes somewhat and looked down at her. She pulled her mouth off
of his shaft and then deliberately swallowed while looking at him.

He shuddered at the sight and she smiled in happiness to see him react so pleasurably to her
actions. Finally he smile down at her with love. She sat up, grabbed her wand and did a breath
freshening charm, and them moved up and kissed him and then snuggled down to his side.

As he caught his breath, she heard him say quietly, "Oh my god, Hermione, I love
you."

She replied just as quietly, "I love you too," and then, smiling, closed her eyes and
let sleep take her as she lay in the arms of her lover.



15. Chapter 15
--------------

A/N: Skip it if you don't care to read it. Anyway, I have had several complaints in reviews
that the last two chapters were pure fluffiness and had no bearing on the story whatsoever and
should have just been skipped. Two things First of all, maybe it was a bit fluffy. Hey, I'm new
at this AND I happen to like fluffiness. Doesn't mean it will all be fluffy. If you hate it,
then you don't need to read it, do you? Chalk it up to an author becoming annoying and let it
go and read something more to your taste. There have been a few stories that fell into this
catagory for me. I loved it until ... and then I hated it. It happens. It's not the
authors' fault when it happens; it's my taste not theirs and so I can't complain much
can I? Second of all, if you didn't see the point -- you just missed it. I recommend reading
the chapters again -- especially the last one -- to figure out how this is molding his views on
magic and the world. Although I love the "Harry just throws off the constraints of his
upbringing and what he learns in the magical world" stories, I'd like to see a basis for
the way he changes his mind or advances himself from observation. Anyway, as I said -- take a look
again. If you don't see it, and you decided to keep reading this fic, you might see the results
later.

Also, later in the chapter, I make reference to race -- it is realistic to the type of person
and the language used. There is no effort to be offensive, but those who haven't experienced
the culture might be offended by the use of certain words. The worst I will still censor myself on
-- but you will know what I mean.

Hermione was in the passenger seat of the Land Cruiser, directing her father toward the location
given on the map. Unfortunately, it was spelled so that mundanes couldn't read it so she had to
give the directions.

Finally, they arrived at Hopewell Village, near Chillicothe. According to the pamphlets, it was
names after the native who had centered many of their most magical sites in the area and was a
convergence point of several ley lines.

Hermione and Harry had to talk to the "National Park Ranger" to allow them to enter.
Apparently the enclave could not be seen by mundanes and the entrance to the Hopewell Culture
National Park doubled as the entry point for those that were unfamiliar.

Hermione was bouncing in excitement at the opportunity to see an all-magic area, just like
Hogsmeade was near Hogwarts. There was even a magical academy, although it apparently wasn't a
boarding school, and it was empty for the summer.

Robert parked the car in the lot that was provided and Harry paid for the horse-drawn carriages
that were the actual form of transportation used in the enclave. The parking lot was used by
visitors and natives alike, although they were sure the natives didn't have to spend as much
for the carriages.

As they were driven toward the Visitor Center in the middle of the village, they were all
surprised at the mix of humans and non-humans that were apparent. Several goblins and house elves
were in evidence, as well as wizards and witches who looked like average people. There were also
several Native Americans. They also saw a shop called "Vlad's Blood Bank" which
appeared closed and another named "The Howling Hamburger" which was apparently run by a
werewolf. Hermione commented that if she had her way, magical districts in Britain would look much
the same in the future.

After a trip to the Visitor Center, Hermione calcified all opinion of her by dragging Harry
along to the bookstore.

As the group entered, they all noticed that the store was much bigger on the inside than the
outside. Emma and Robert looked at the teens and Hermione let Harry explain about space expansion
charms while she immediately started looking over the shelves.

The first thing that Hermione noticed was that, unlike Flourish and Blott's back home, books
that were apparently quite dark seemed just as available as books that were quite light. Finally,
Hermione couldn't stand it and went to get an explanation.

She approached the man behind the counter and asked, "Sir? Can I ask a question?" The
man, dressed in Native American dress, asked her what she needed. "I can't help but notice
that there are books of a type I'm not used to seeing in bookstores. Aren't Dark Arts books
illegal?"

The man looked at her, and replied, "Where are you from?"

"England."

"That answers that. The laws of the United States are a bit different. The US Constitution
explicitly states that there is freedom of speech. What it basically means is that it is legal to
publish and sell anything. It can't be limited unless it is in danger of causing imminent harm.
For example, ever hear of a book called 'Monster Book of Monsters'?"

"It was a textbook my school used several years ago."

"Well, in the US, a book like that can only be sold to an adult and only with a clear
warning of what can be expected. Dark Arts books, because of the possible addictive nature of such
magic, can only be sold to adults or with the consent of a guardian unless it's just theory.
It's up to every person to use what is available responsibly and legally. For example, you can
buy a book on rituals that use human sacrifice, but the practice has been outlawed in the US for
over 200 years. So you can buy the book which explains how it is done, you just can't perform
the magic."

"So, your government can't restrict what's sold?" was Hermione's response,
although it came out more like a statement. After the shopkeeper nodded, she asked, "What
about taking the books outside of the country?"

"Well, the laws are a little different. Export can be done unless it violates US Secrecy
Laws or national security. Really, unless you in a restricted part of a Magical Military library,
you won't find books that are limited by security."

Hermione took her newfound freedom to buy books and bought several books that were restricted in
the UK, although not Dark Arts. Harry bought a book explained the Dark Arts much better than
anything available in Hogwarts. Then he had a thought. He went to the clerk and explained what he
was looking for. He had to give his name and list his history with Voldemort to explain why he
needed to know the information. When he did, the clerk gave him a piece of paper with a name with
who to contact. It happened to be the Magical Defense teacher from the school located in the
magical enclave.

When the book shopping was done and the books shrunken down to matchbox size until they were
back home, they had a wonderful time exploring the rest of the enclave. They saw a magical butcher
shop and had to check it out. The shop was run by a goblin. When they asked about cooking over a
campfire, they were sold a magical cooler which could be used on a camping trip. In addition, they
bought several steaks of magical origin. Harry had never camped before and the Grangers had never
seen magical steaks, and so they had decided to find a place where they could do have a barbeque
while they were on vacation.

One thing that Harry noted was a display, just like a butcher's shop back home, of different
meats. One of the meats was basilisk. There were two prices, one much higher than the other. When
Harry asked about it, the goblin explained that the more expensive price was for aged meat. He also
explained that the meat was not edible by humans, just goblins and dwarves.

"That's quite pricey though. How long after a basilisk is killed can the meat be
obtained from the carcass?"

The goblin thought about it. "If it was a non-magical meat, such as bison or cattle, the
meat would have to be processed immediately. Aging is done for a short time. In magical meat,
spoilage is inversely proportionate to the magical content of the carcass, it's size, and how
protected it is from the elements. Hippogryph, for example, can last in the open for about 6
months, and in a controlled environment about a year. Griffon, which is a larger creature, could
last twice as long. Dragon, much more magical, can last five times that length. Basilisk would be
similar -- a bit less if they are younger and smaller. Similar to Wyvern meat for draconic animals.
Much smaller and less magical than a full dragon and lasts a shorter time as a consequence. The
only thing that would outlast the normal dragon or basilisk would be sphinx meat of certain
types."

"Oh, well thank you."

"Was there a particular reason you asked?"

"I killed a basilisk a while ago, and it's never been processed. I'm wondering if I
should do something about it."

"Well, unless it was larger than 20 feet, it would have to processed within 4
years."

"How about 40 feet?"

"As I have never heard of one longer than 30, all I can say is that it would last possibly
another 3 years beyond." Harry calculated that the one he killed at 12 years old could be
harvested possibly as long as 10 years later, which meant he didn't have to worry about it now.
"Should the meat not be spoilt, you would do well to offer it in sale to a goblin -- we find
it quite tasty."

"Thank you. I was just curious."

They left the shop and continued on their way. Harry had called the person recommended at the
shop and an appointment was set for the next day. The group spent a good portion of the rest of the
day exploring the mundane park as well.

The Grangers plus one found themselves being welcomed by an older man dressed in Native American
leathers and beads. He introduced himself as Qaletaga Eaglefoot. When Hermione asked, he explained
his name meant "Guardian of the People". He also explained he could be called Joshua if
his Native name was too hard to pronounce.

As the man toured them around the school, Hermione asked many questions about the differences
between what was taught in the school and what she learned at Hogwarts. She was interested to see a
computer lab station set up in one part of the school. Finally, the man took them to his classroom.
Unlike Hogwarts, the school seemed much more like the schools she had attended as a child.

After everyone was comfortable, Harry began.

"Mr. Eaglefoot, we were referred to you as someone who could help me with information to
explain some things." The man nodded for him to continue. Harry then spent the next hour
explaining his peculiar history and what had happened during the cleansing ritual. As Harry
mentioned the minor possession explanation, the man grew more and more intense -- or that was how
Harry saw it anyway. In truth, Joshua Storm Eaglefoot, Qaletaga to his brothers and to his people,
was extremely alarmed.

When Harry finished, the teacher replied in firm tones, "What you describe is very evil
magic. I only know of it as I have studied far and wide to help to educate my people and other
magicals in how to protect themselves and defeat those that would *muaYa* - make bad medicine,
Dark Magic to those that do not speak my language. This magic of the *wanaYisapa* , the black
spirit, is of the most evil and darkest type." Harry and the others could see how much the
idea of what he was speaking about upset him.

"In Ancient Egypt, those that ruled were much concerned with death and eternal life. One
such ruler ordered his court magician to create a magic that would allow him to live eternally. The
court magician decided that he would work to ensure that the spirit lived within the circles of the
world. He and others spent many years developing a ritual to anchor the *wanaYi* the spirit.
It was found that by splitting the spirit and anchoring the split portions to an object that the
spirit would not move on to the realms of the dead but would stay within the realm of the
living.

"It was found that the spirit rebelled against killing, and that in killing a tear in the
spirit would occur. The ritual that the court magician created would force the tear to become
permanent and to anchor the torn off piece to something."

"What the magician did not discover until too late was that by tearing the spirit, all
human compassion was destroyed and the one with the torn soul would become insane."

Harry thought about it. It made sense. No one would ever accuse Voldemort of simple compassion
and Harry could attest to the insanity that he exuded. "I would have to agree with you. Tom
Riddle was obsessed with immortality and would not hesitate to sacrifice his humanity to stay
alive."

The older man thought for a brief time. "Do you know of any anchors?"

Harry explained about both the diary that he destroyed in second year as well as the anchor that
was removed from his forehead.

"What you describe would lead me to believe that he created more anchors than just these
two. The question is how many."

Hermione thought about it for a moment. "Well, there is much importance placed in prime
numbers in the teaching of our culture. Especially the numbers three, seven and thirteen."

Joshua Eaglefoot shook his head, "It would not be thirteen. The wanaYi would not survive
that many tearings. According to what you have said and the description that you gave, if I had to
guess I would say seven. Three was done in Ancient Egypt -- more common was four which was
considered a magical number. If he has 'gone farther on the path to immortality than any before
me' it would suggest seven. I do not think a wanaYi would survive more than that. And if it
did, the power of a magical one would be destroyed."

Harry looked at Hermione and then back at the teacher. "It would make sense with his
personality. He is obsessed with power and with death. He would not take a chance of losing his
power or with dying. He is insane -- not stupid."

Eaglefoot disagreed. "Doing this ritual would be thought of as stupid by those that created
it. The ruler who commissioned the ritual did not prepare for death the way the other rulers before
and after him had. When he died and his spirit anchors were destroyed, he ended up lost to time as
he never created a tomb. His burial site was a random grave of the same type as the poorest of the
poor. And he was considered the most evil of all rulers. The people forgot about him and considered
him a flawed ruler, not worthy of divine status."

Finally Harry asked, "So, how do I find these anchors to destroy them? And how can they be
destroyed?"

The man thought for a long moment. "The destroying of an anchor requires more magic than
was used to create the anchor. The diary you spoke of was destroyed by a very magically poisonous
venom. There is a magical fire spell. Blood magic, similar to what was done by the goblins of your
land. Tears of a phoenix mixed with the ash of its burning. A soul devourer."

Hermione had a thought. "A soul devourer. Do you mean a dementor? And are there any books
on destroying the anchors?"

"That is what they are called in lands across the sea. And yes, give me a moment and I will
find the title. You might locate it in a bookstore, but it is unlikely to be in a bookstore in a
small enclave such as the one this school is located in. You would need to go to a bookstore in a
large city, such as Los Angeles or Washington D.C."

"How about New York?"

"You should be able to find it there."

The teenagers thanked the man for his help, and the adults added their thanks on behalf of
themselves and the teenagers.

The group continued on their vacation, having learned what they could at the enclave.

The next stop was a surprise that Emma had for her husband and daughter. She took over the
driving as the group made its way north into Michigan and west after a night in the city of Toledo.
Emma consulted a map, refusing to allow her husband to know what she had planned. By the next
morning, all she would say was, "We're close."

Everyone enjoyed the trip -- even if most didn't know where they were going. The wide open
country they drove through was very relaxing. Finally Emma stopped at a gas station and used the
payphone to make a call. When she came back, she cheerfully ordered everyone back into the SUV and
drove along a country road until she turned into a long driveway toward a country house.

The sign on the property was "Farmer Orchard, Battle Creek". When Robert saw it, he
laughed. "I should have thought of this!" When Hermione asked him what he meant, his
reply was "What does the name 'Granger' mean?"

Hermione answered, "Farmer". She started to brighten in comprehension.

"We're going to visit my distant cousin Frank and his family."

Emma laughed as she admitted it was true. The group could now see the family that was on the
porch, waiting for the visitors to arrive. There appeared to be a middle-aged couple, a woman in
her twenties and an adolescent girl.

The group got out, and Robert called, "Hello, Cousin Frankie! It's been a long
time!"

The man, who looked similar to Robert replied, "Hello Cousin Bobby!" even as he
reached the car and embraced his cousin.

The Introductions began a pleasant visit to Hermione's more distant relatives. Harry learned
that Frank's grandfather had moved to the US just after the first world war, and that Robert
and Frank hadn't seen each other in 25 years, although they had spoken or written many times
since. It was a relaxing stop for everyone.

Monday morning found Harry looking at a very different statue than any he had seen before.

The family had spent the weekend with Robert's cousin and had then traveled to Detroit to
cross over to the Dominion of Canada. Near the entrance to the tunnel below the river, Harry had
spied something that caused him to ask Robert to allow a stop.

In the heart of Downtown Detroit, there was a statue of a fist that hung in the center of the
the major road that went through the city where it met with the road that was next to the
river.

The group stopped and walked up to the area of the statue. They looked around and didn't see
a plaque explaining the work. Finally, Robert crossed back over to the east side of the street to
ask a passing older gentleman about it. After a moment, Robert called out and motioned the rest to
join him.

The man, an older man with dark skin and salt and pepper hair was talking to Robert as the group
approached. When Harry got there, Robert pointed to the man and said, "This is Michael Brown.
Mr. Brown, you were saying you could tell us about the statue ...."

The man, who looked quite proud, said, "That is the fist of Joe Louis."

Hermione, who was always interested in learning everything she could, asked "Who was
that?" The man looked shocked that she didn't know who Joe Louis was.

Robert, who had heard of him, said, "Mr. Brown, can we buy you an early lunch and you can
tell us?"

Michael Brown appeared to think about it and then said, "Alright." He led them across
the street and down a little to what looked like an old diner with the name, "American Coney
Island." He explained, "Best place in the city for a coney dog. Place has been open since
1921, ain't never closed."

After everyone had gotten a meal with suggestions as to what to get from Michael, he led them to
a table. "You asked about Joe Louis. Any of you heard of him?"

Robert said, "He was a boxer if I remember correctly."

Michael laughed. "You're from England, right?" Everyone nodded. "Saying Joe
Louis was a boxer is like saying Winston Churchill was a politician." As they ate the
surprisingly good coney dogs, the older man continued. "Back in the 1930s, I was just a kid.
You don't know what it was like, but black people didn't get a fair chance. In different
places, a black man couldn't eat in the same places as white folk. Especially the south. Even
in places where there was a lot of black people and it was easier to get a job, we were treated as
second class. Segregation was everywhere.

"Joe Louis made a big difference. He came to Detroit as a teenager and started to learn
boxing. He became known as a clean-living black man. He lost one fight to Max Schmeling, which was
a German white man. Two years later, there was a rematch. Adolf Hitler was already beginning to
make trouble in Europe. Joe had once beat Mussolini's man and was a big name to America. Hitler
used the fight as propaganda for the superiorness of the 'Aryan Race'.

"Max Schmelting lost. It was a big thing for folk both black AND white. He was still
treated like a n****r in a lot of places. But people needed a hero, and he was a hero. He helped
break down the segregation in sports. The old Jim Crow laws were changed or gotten rid of because
of him. It took a long time, even after the fight. But he lived to see a lot of the changes.

"Eventually, he was known by everyone as a hero. White reporter made a comment about
someone saying he was a credit to his race. The reporter said 'Yeah, he's a credit to his
race -- the human race'.

"Lotta people didn't like the Fist when it was put up. But after a while, people
started changing their minds. It stood for the power of one man to change things, just by being who
he was. Lotta thngs named after him. But now the Fist is a part of the city. Shows what Detroit is
like. We fight. We're tough. Don't matter how hard it is. We do what we have to. Not just
black folk -- everyone."

After thanking the man, the group decided to spend more time in the city, looking at different
historical markers and places. Later in the evening, Harry asked to stop one more time at the Fist
before they crossed over to Canada.

He stood there in front of the statue looking up at it with an intense expression on his face.
Hermione, seeing his expression, asked him what he was thinking.

"I was thinking about what Mr. Brown said," Harry began, his tone showing he was
distracted by his thoughts. "I'm not a boxer like Joe Louis, but I'm in a war.
It's like what is happening at home. The purebloods don't like the muggleborns and
halfbloods. A lot like the segregation he was talking about. But one man made a difference and
changed things. Now people don't think about his color, just about his standing strong. Gives
me hope for the wizarding world actually." He turned toward Hermione and her parents.

"I just hope that when I'm gone ..." and he paused, trying to think of the words,
"I hope when I'm gone that people will remember me like people remember him. I don't
want statues or anything like that, or things named after me. But I want people to stop worrying
about what makes us different, and remember that I didn't fight because I'm a halfblood or
because I want to protect the muggleborns. I want to be remembered as someone who fought against
evil for everyone."

He would never know, but after he died, his wish would be granted. Many people, witches and
wizards and goblins and elves, would come to the statue of his hand holding his wand that was
placed just inside the entrance to Diagon Alley, and remember that Harry Potter fought so that
everyone could live free and safe.



16. Chapter 16
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17. Chapter 17
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18. untitled
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19. Chapter 19
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