Chapter 7
They left to meet McGonagall as Luna stayed to chat with Colin about pictures for the Quibbler, Neville's nod confirmed that the Gryffindors would watch over the girl. Though given the demonstration of what happened to the last group who tried to mess with Luna, within the castle she was probably as safe as Hermione.
They sat as Minerva greeted them. "Sirius it's so good to see you again and free as well, though I can't condone your treatment of Lucius Malfoy I did have to hide my laughter. Your godson here would seem to be living up to his inheritance, having led us all a merry dance this morning."
"Thank you Professor, it really is nice to walk about without wagging my tail. As to my godson here, I'm worried for what he'll come up with next."
"Funny you should say that Sirius." The room occupants collectively held their breath awaiting Harry's latest revelation, "I assume Hogwarts is in dire need of a Defence Professor until the real Moody gets back on his foot." The groan from Sirius was more to do with anticipating where Harry was going with this rather than his bad joke.
"Sirius will be staying with us and could easily keep an eye on the job for him until Christmas."
Another bad joke groan was covered by Minerva, "I like the idea but why Christmas?"
This is the bit Harry knew he was going to have a hard sell with. "I would also like him to be Head of Slytherin and try to turn the house around." Hermione, Minerva and Sirius were all staring at him as if he had two heads while Dan and Emma didn't have enough knowledge to understand what was going on here.
"Sirius, a once proud house has been perverted by Riddle and his disciples. Reclaiming Slytherin and turning its members away from the darkness would be a massive victory for the light. You were raised with the pureblood doctrine and rejected it, lost people close to you through the madness and been where most of that house would appear destined to end up. You've been there, seen it, done it and still carry the scars. When you talk, they'll listen. If they don't get the proper guidance soon, most of them will repeat the sins of their parents and we'll never end this circle of hatred and violence. Salazar and Godric think you're the right person for the job, anyone who can piss on Lucius Malfoy in the great hall gets my vote."
Minerva could quickly see the sense in Harry's words, Sirius knew what most of these kids faced because he already had. His brother and Harry's parents were just a few of the people close to him who had died at the hands of Voldemort. Sirius may have just lost the distinction of being the only person ever to escape from Azkaban but he could describe in minute detail to the students what it was like to be imprisoned there. The more she thought about it the more convinced Minerva became that this was the correct decision.
Sirius was staring at Harry with his mouth open before Hermione spoke. "Look at it this way Sirius, you will either go down in history as the wizard who saved Slytherin House or ended it for good. You can't lose!"
He burst out laughing, "Oh Harry, that is a prank worthy of any marauder. Professor, if you'll have me, I'll do it!"
Minerva was shaking her head but wearing a broad grin. "Well Mister Potter just who would you like to recommend for our new Head of Gryffindor, I assume you have someone in mind?" she asked teasingly.
No one was in the least surprised when Harry had an answer for her. "Well actually Headmistress I do, a former Gryffindor prefect to be precise but how do you feel about sacking a ghost?"
-oOoOo-
There was a celebration that night in their accommodation, Remus was the new Head of Gryffindor and History of Magic teacher with Sirius being Head of Slytherin and Defence Professor. Both would be staying with Harry since they were still 'on the grounds' and thus solving the 'werewolf in the castle' problem.
This delighted the Grangers as there would now be two adults looking after the kids while Xeno was ecstatic the people who'd tried to assault his daughter were going to face trial, the three students were just glad it was over.
Dobby escorted an excited Colin into the room. "Oh Harry, glad you're here, you got to see this!" Colin proceeded to place some eight by tens on the table that were breathtaking.
"Colin, how did you take these?" Luna asked. "I didn't see any camera flashes."
Colin was usually excited around Harry but tonight was putting Dobby to shame, it appeared as if it was taking all his will power just to stay still. "With the money from the Basilisk and considering my contract with the Quibbler, I bought a pensieve and the specialist camera equipment that allows me to take photographs of memories. I just play them back and click away."
Xeno was amazed. "Colin, that is my next front page but Harry I think we may have been too clever here. In banning all Potter merchandising you will push the market underground, meaning people will pay higher prices for poorer quality goods. I'll pay Colin for using that picture in the Quibbler but, if he waived his fees, I would print it for free and we could have an authentic 'Harry Potter' poster with all proceeds going to charity."
"I definitely want one of those, can you make the poster that it doesn't move though?"
"Mum!" A blushing Hermione moaned, "What do you want Harry's poster for?"
"Well the next time your Aunt Agnes comes over and starts boasting about your cousin Brenda's latest boyfriend I'll just point to the poster and say 'This is Harry, Hermione's boyfriend' and watch her face collapse." Dan, Sirius and Remus thought this was the funnies thing they had ever heard while Harry still hadn't taken his eyes of the pictures.
Hermione gave her mother a strange look before asking, "And how would you explain the robes and sword?"
Emma's smile was predatory, "Oh that's easy dear, I'll just casually mention that he's a Lord and performing an official function. Then fetch the smelling salts to bring her around after she faints." The two marauders and Dan were now howling with laughter though both professors took a mental note not to mess with the Granger women, Dan of course was already well aware of this.
"Is that really me?" Harry asked. The picture was of Harry in the great hall, with his arm raised and the sword of Gryffindor in his fist. His eyes were practically glowing while the magic on display made his robe billow as his hair appeared to be blown by the wind. As a picture it was iconic, as a poster it would be phenomenal!
Hermione thought Harry's modesty was one of his most defining features and adored the fact that he didn't see himself the way everybody else did. "Yes love, that's really you. Now maybe you'll understand why a Veela is chasing you!"
This got Remus's attention immediately. "A Veela, tell me exactly what happened?" After Hermione had explained it, Remus filed in the gaps in their knowledge. "A Veela will feel compelled to attach herself to the best possible mate, her Veela magic would accept no less. I know you don't believe this but you Harry have money, fame, great magical and political power, a title, throw in duel Hogwarts heir and a tri-wiz champion. That's a pretty irresistible combination to a Veela."
Hermione had her arm rather possessively around Harry as she pouted. "He didn't even mention handsome, sexy with green eyes that could melt your heart."
The answer Remus gave was surprising to the people there. "Hate to burst your bubble Hermione but Harry could have half his face chewed off and it wouldn't matter to the Veela. On a purely biological level, she wants to breed with the most powerful male around and her Veela heritage would ensure any children could be nothing less than handsome."
"What can we do about this Remus?" The now worried girl asked, how could Harry resist a relentless Veela determined to have sex with him?
Emma seen the worry in her daughter's body language and wanted to know why. "Could someone please explain to us poor dentists what the hell a Veela is?"
Remus nodded and tried to help, "Veela are females that are not what they appear, their heritage is clouded in mystery but their effects on males are well documented. They magically emit an allure that can have total strangers wanting to fight duels just for the privilege of being in the same room as them. In olden days wars have been fought over women who are now suspected to be Veela's. The Veela in question is Miss Fleur Delacour. Harry needs to convince her that he already has a life mate then she will move on, her Veela senses will pick up on any deception though so you really have to mean it."
Harry now placed his arm reassuringly around Hermione. "Best friend to girlfriend to betrothed and now life mate in the space of a week, you don't hang about Miss Granger! Remus, we don't need to exchange rings, vows or anything like that? Just convince her Hermione's the only girl for me?"
Remus could only nod, dumbfounded at Harry's new confidence. "That should be no problem then, I really think I should take my beautiful girlfriend on at least one date before the wedding. Secret chambers with dead basilisks in them is hardly romantic, don't you agree love?"
Hermione's hazel eyes were wide and focused intently on her boyfriend, did Harry realise he just said he would marry her? His smile told her that he did, her dad might have kittens with this but she didn't care. Harry deserved to be kissed for that and she had no intention of disappointing him.
First Dan had trouble believing his ears and now his eyes were playing tricks on him also, he could have swore his little girl was wrapped around Harry, trying to perform an appendectomy with her tongue. Not something he was ready to see for at least another two decades.
Emma was over the moon, the prospect of Harry as a son-in-law was one that delighted her. Every parent wants their child to find someone who will love, cherish and protect them, even in the short time they had known Harry he had displayed every one of those qualities in abundance. The fact that he could ignore the allure of some goddess while her daughter was head-over-heels in love with him might have influenced her as well.
Sirius and Remus were desperate to make some sort of witty comment but held back. The kids have had a rough few days, just got Sirius set free and both of them new jobs, the marauders would give them a break, for now.
Harry finally surfaced for air as Hermione buried her face in his chest, she didn't want to see the looks she knew she'd be getting from her parents.
Still standing with his arms around his Hermione, Harry tried to remember the conversation before his betrothed pounced. "Ok where were we? Right run with the picture Xeno, yes to the poster idea and ask charities to apply for donations. I will match the funds raised by the poster galleon for galleon. Colin, I'm sure you could take a non-magical picture of both Hermione and me that Emma could have on her wall, Sirius close your mouth you're dribbling. We will deal with the Veela problem tomorrow then Saturday the beautiful Miss Granger and I can have a date in Hogsmead. Dan and Emma, you are welcome to spend the day with us exploring the only totally magical village in Britain, lunch is on me! Have I missed anything?"
"Only the part where Dan and Sirius here need to see Madam Pomfrey to get their jaws fixed from continually hitting the floor. What the hell has happened to you Harry?"
"It's actually very simple Remus, I have gained a very smart girlfriend and control of my life, neither of which I have any intention of ever losing. The only way to do that is to step up and accept control. I'm taking advice from two Hogwarts founders, a very sneaky but brilliant goblin and not forgetting the lovely Miss Granger. My life has been run by others for whatever purpose they desired since I was left on the Dursley's doorstep, a doorstep I never intend to cross over again. Yes I have been entered in this bloody competition by a murdering maniac out for my blood but, for the first time ever, I mostly know what's coming and have a plan in place to deal with it. A plan that hopefully doesn't involve spending time with Madam Pomfrey."
"Em Harry, I assume you don't want that repeated anywhere?"
"Colin please treat anything you hear in this house as confidential, Luna knows what she can print and I don't really want our business discusses in the castle."
Harry had asked Colin to do something, he would be saying nothing about his hero to anyone in the castle.
Xeno, Luna and Colin began working on today's events for the next issue of the Quibbler, the Prophet was now running stories that were basically just re-writes of their material and even the gullible magical public were beginning to see that. The paper's boy-who-must-not-be-named campaign had backfired spectacularly with subscribers defecting to the Quibbler in droves.
Dan really wanted to get hold of Harry for 'a chat' but had to defer to the boy's godfather while Dobby offered him and Remus a much needed drink. He was delighted to see Emma taking Hermione away as well for a few words, the definitely liked her choice of boyfriend but this was all moving a bit too fast for the worried parents.
Emma walked Hermione to the library for their chat and tried to put her daughter at ease. "Tell me what's got you so worried about this Veela girl?"
"Mum, she is absolutely stunningly beautiful and that's before you add the Veela allure. She was coming on to Harry in the corridor and my heart was breaking, thinking that Harry would rather be with her than me. Poor Neville was almost catatonic with the effect but Harry was ignoring her, then his whole face lit up when he saw me! Me, Hermione Granger, the bucked toothed bookworm has a gorgeous boyfriend who prefers her to a Veela! I know it's hard for you to understand mum but if you can imagine the most beautiful female film star. She walks into the room and dad doesn't pay her the slightest bit of attention, instead focusing all his love on you, that gives you a small idea of what it's like."
Emma thought her daughter must be exaggerating but then again her natural tendency was to underplay things, she would reserve judgement until she laid eyes on this girl that had her daughter in a tizzy.
Now for the real reason behind this chat. "Hermione, your father and I are slightly worried about what we're seeing here. Harry seems a very nice young wizard who we're delighted to get to know better but you both appear to be rushing into this relationship. What was it Harry said, girlfriend to life mate in a week. It's not that we don't trust you, more that you both appear to be so caught up in everything that it would be easy to get carried away. I hope you can understand our concern?"
Hermione knew this was coming from the moment she had pounced on her betrothed, she tried to explain her actions. "Mum, what you don't understand here is Harry. He doesn't make rash statements and always tells the truth, when Harry talks about life mate and wedding's he's not being flippant – he means it. Harry Potter is going to be my husband and I would marry him tonight if he asked me. Are we rushing this, from your point of view very much so but Harry and I have been facing danger together for years. This Voldemort will try and kill him again so, given that background I don't think we're rushing anything. Harry's confidence is soaring and if me kissing him helps in any way then I fully intend to continue, the fact that I love him with all my heart and need to reassure myself he actually returns those feelings might play a major part as well. We haven't progressed beyond kissing yet but once we're both ready we will, it may be next week, next month or next year but it's a decision we will both take. This ring might have been originally put on my finger for my protection but it now means I'm going to be Mrs Potter, only the timing is still to be determined."
Emma hugged he daughter. "I've known for a while now how you felt about the boy and it's very easy to see what he thinks of you, I was going to say you had your whole lives in front of you but with a mass murderer in the picture then I can kind of see where you're coming from. Just be very careful and try not to flaunt it too much in front of us."
Hermione was hugging her mum. "When the person you've been dreaming off practically asks you to marry him, I thought I was quite restrained."
"Hermione, if that was you being restrained I never want to think what happens when you let your hair down." Both women giggled at that, Emma knew her daughter was grown up and couldn't fault her choice of boyfriend. She wished they were a little older but had learned long ago to be thankful for what you had rather than wishing for something you couldn't get.
Sirius and Harry were also having a chat. "Harry you are my godson but I'll tell you this up front, if you are leading that young lady on then I am going to kick your arse all around the castle. You do realise what you said in there earlier?"
The smile on Harry's face could have lit the room. "Sirius I know exactly what I said in there and I meant every word of it. Hermione is my girl and if it takes me saying that in front of a Veela for her to believe me then that's exactly what I'll do. Having her by my side and the knowledge that I'll never have to return to the Dursleys has left me feeling ten feet tall, I'm not about to beat Hermione in exams or out-duel Dumbledore but I'll bet my patronus could kick the shit out of his with how happy I'm feeling."
Sirius was also a lot happier after that answer, nothing would give him more pleasure than to welcome the young witch who helped save his life into the family. He was now faced with giving Harry 'the talk', he had intended to pass on to his godson all his secrets and techniques for 'getting to know' women but it would now appear unnecessary. He'd already made his decision and, like his father's choice of Lily before him, Sirius couldn't fault it.
-oOoOo-
An entirely different talk was taking place in the Three Broomsticks where there was a distinct shortage of happiness or smiles.
"This is a nightmare Albus, that little shit Potter will now be insufferable. I'm sacked, your demoted, Black free and both Malfoys arrested, I can't believe you let him away with that."
"Severus I was no more than a spectator in the proceedings, I fully expected to be barred from the castle like yourself." Albus placed a shrunken trunk on the table, "These are your belongings, I have been forced to move into your former quarters since I'm now teaching potions. I shall endeavour to try and influence the young man to allow you to return but I can make no promises."
If both wizards were honest with themselves they knew there was more chance of the Chudley Cannons winning the league than Severus ever setting foot in Hogwarts again, his dark mark would bar him even if Harry didn't.
"What will you do now Severus?" Albus asked, knowing the man had few options and even fewer friends.
"With Barty Jr. confirming that the Dark Lord is returning, my choices would appear to be limited to joining him or fleeing the country. With you under investigation and Fudge arrested I think I'd better leave sooner rather than later in case our new minister decides to arrest any marked death eaters. Without your protection I wouldn't survive a trial, returning to the Dark Lord holds little attraction so Australia beckons."
Dumbledore was relieved, he was well aware that getting himself back into Harry's good graces was going to be a most difficult task without the spectre of Severus slinking in the background. With the running of the school no longer his responsibility and his Chief Wizard duties under investigation, Albus would have a lot more time to concentrate on his main objective. Regaining Harry Potter's trust so he could once more guide the young wizard to fulfil the destiny Albus had long ago mapped out for him.
-oOoOo-
Amelia Bones was having a celebratory drink in the Bones ancestral home. She'd had a stellar day by whatever criteria she used to measure it, even Susan pointing her wand in her face was a highlight as her niece and schoolmates displayed the courage of their convictions.
The confession from Lucius Malfoy saw the wizard introduced to a dementor and, along with the financial documents from the goblins, would ensure that Fudge came to a sticky end.
Barty Couch Snr. was arrested while his son had a heavy date with the same dementor that wined and dined on Lucius. The junior Malfoy and both his cronies were already expelled from Hogwarts, quickly confessed to their crime, given their ages all three had their wands snapped and their magic bound.
Even on a stellar day though a little rain will fall, this toad shaped raincloud took the form of the now Acting Minister, former Senior Undersecretary Deloris Umbridge! Amelia still believed though that every cloud had a silver lining, in this case the law that stated a new minister must be appointed within forty days of the post becoming vacant. Amelia believed that detestable Deloris didn't stand an amphibian in hell's chance of being elected minister and anyway, what harm could she cause in less than six weeks?
-oOoOo-
Fleur was heading into the great hall for breakfast in the hope of once more seeing Harry Potter, the fact that he could offer resistance against her Veela allure just about made him irresistible in the eyes of the blond French student. Those same eyes were suddenly full of three witches wearing Gryffindor robes, a quick glance over her shoulder revealed another trio of similarly clad witches closing in from behind.
The three Gryffindor chasers, two former dorm-mates of Hermione's and the youngest Weasley had the Veela boxed in, Katie Bell then explained precisely how things worked in Hogwarts.
"When a wizard chooses to go out with a Gryffindor girl, all of her female housemates respect and protect that girl's relationship. Harry has chosen Hermione so that means he's off limits to all of Hogwarts."
This was not the first time Fleur had encountered a reaction like this but it was certainly the first where the girl directly involved was not a member of the reception committee. "I am delighted for you that such an arrangement exists but feel I must point something out, I am not of Hogwarts."
That French accent was really grating on Ginny's nerves. "We are so glad to hear that but I feel I must now point something out to you, we are currently standing in a Hogwarts corridor where six wands say this is our patch so our rules apply to all."
"Not today they don't!" The group spun round to see an enraged Hermione Granger with her wand already in her hand, Harry was standing back in the knowledge that Hermione could deal with this.
Ginny was beaming, "Sorry, my mistake, seven wands…"
She was again interrupted by Hermione. "No Ginny this stops now! Sorry girls but if I need you threatening other witches to stay away from my Harry then what message would that send out about our relationship? Thanks but no thanks, I appreciate the thought and loyalty but this is not the answer."
"But Hermione she's a Veela!"
Hermione's rage had been kindled at the sight of a gang of girls surrounding another, like Fleur it was a situation she was overly familiar with but for totally different reasons. "So she's a Veela! That does not excuse the bullying taking place here. Picking on someone because they're different can never be justified whatever the circumstances. Does she fancy Harry? I would say that's a definite yes but how many witches in this corridor alone would like to answer that question honestly, far less the witches in the great hall." Hermione's voice now softened, "I've only ever had Harry stand up for me in the past so thank you, but please leave us to deal with this problem."
If the six witches who filed past them were confused that was nothing compared to Fleur Delacour, she couldn't believe what just happened and now this girl was apologising to her – in French. This whole situation was nuts!
"Miss Delacour, I'm sorry for the behaviour of my friends. They misguidedly thought they were showing me loyalty when in fact they were displaying a trait I abhor, I apologise for any hurt they caused you. I am Hermione Granger, you've met my betrothed Harry Potter and we would like to be your friends."
Fleur was beginning to wonder if one of those girls had cast a spell on her or perhaps this was some elaborate plan to mess with her head, if that was indeed the plan then it was working as she hadn't a bloody clue what as going on here.
Harry wrapped his arms around Hermione from behind and kissed her cheek, "Fleur, unfortunately I don't speak a word of French so have no idea what my beautiful betrothed just said. Knowing her like I do though I would be willing to wager she apologised for our friends and offered our friendship to you."
The French Veela could only nod which brought a smile to Harry's lips. "You see Fleur my beautiful Hermione here is my life mate, my inspiration to be a better wizard and the future mother of our children. You are a very pretty girl Fleur but in my eyes no one even comes close to my Hermione."
His Hermione was in heaven at her betrothed's words, she spun round in his arms and proceeded to provide evidence that perhaps last night's kiss may qualify for being re-classified as restrained after all. Fortunately there were no other Grangers present to witness this.
The only person who did witness the new evidence was currently having to get used to the idea that the title of Lady Potter was well and truly taken, from the display presently still underway the title was never up for grabs in the first place. Her Veela magic was confirming what her eyes were telling her, these two were life mates and no Veela would ever have power over Harry because of this. Having someone resist your allure was one thing but when that resistance was formed because he was totally in love with another, a Veela always withdrew. It was not in their nature to settle for being second best in any relationship and, as far as Harry was concerned, even a Veela would always be a distant second to Hermione.
Considering the deeds she'd seen, heard and read about concerning these two, Fleur decided she would be delighted to have them as friends. She definitely didn't want them as enemies because their enemies tended not to be around for very long.
Ginny watched as a dishevelled Harry and Hermione entered the great hall with Fleur, she would have suspected a fight if not for the beaming smiles her friends wore, she noticed they stopped to talk to Cedric for a moment before both of them made their way to the Gryffindor table.
"Sorry you guys, we thought we were helping…"
Ginny never got to finish her sentence as an incredibly jovial Harry pulled her into a one armed hug, his other still being around Hermione. "Don't worry about it Ginny, no harm done and thanks for thinking about Hermione."
The youngest Weasley was bright red from the unaccustomed contact with Harry and getting the full blast of those green eyes from a distance that was measured in inches. She could quite happily have stayed there for the rest of the morning but of course her prat brother had to open that stupid mouth of his without first engaging his brain.
"One girl not enough for the great Harry Potter or does being the heir of two founders mean you can get as many as you want? Hermione, Looney, the Veela and now you're slobbering all over my sister, who's next on the list Potter?"
Ron's attempt at portraying Harry in a bad light was totally ruined when Romilda Vane butted in, "There's a list? How the hell was that kept secret and where do I sign?"
Ginny went to pull away, now embarrassed by her brother's behaviour but Harry held her tight, "Ginny, unlike some I could mention, is a good friend but never think for a second that Hermione isn't the only girl I'll ever need. Luna is under my protection so I would ask you to stop calling her that name while 'the Veela' as you so eloquently phrased it is Miss Fleur Delacour who we're having dinner with tonight. Which reminds me, Ginny, Neville, Colin would you like to join us? Cedric Diggory has already said he would and I intend to invite Victor Krum as well."
Harry was aware this was rubbing salt into the open wound that was Ron Weasley but he was past caring. When the world didn't revolve around the red head then he tended to lash out at the nearest target, which would no longer be Hermione if Harry had anything to do with it.
Ginny, Colin and Neville all quickly agreed as Hedwig flew in and landed on Harry's shoulder, preening her wizard's hair as she waited on him writing the invitation to Victor Krum.
Dean Thomas was shaking his head in mock disbelief, "Even the bloody owl is female and all over him, what's the secret Harry mate? Help us mere mortals out here."
Harry's drool answer of "Animal magnetism" had bits of breakfast flying everywhere as the Gryffindor table exploded into laughter.
All except a livid Ron Weasley who took the opportunity to make his way unnoticed out the hall, he could have been wearing death eater robes and nobody would have noticed him leaving. Ron was beginning to understand what his outbursts were costing him, that without Harry Potter's friendship that's just what he was, a nobody!
He hadn't intended to say anything but watching Harry enter with his arm around Hermione while chatting to the Veela was bad enough. When he later put his arm around Ginny as well Ron just couldn't hold it, especially as it was clear Ginny was loving the attention and would have stayed in Potter's arms all bloody day.
His sister had remained friends with Potter and was now rich, the centre of attention because Harry had sat beside her and was going to be having dinner tonight with a Veela and Victor Krum. Sometimes the expression 'it's not fair' just didn't cut it.
Ron made his way down to potions early and alone, thankful at least that it wasn't Snape awaiting him, at the moment he needed any good news he could get.
-oOoOo-
Albus made his way from the dungeons up to his former office before realising that Minerva hadn't told him the password, his temper was rising with each minute he stood there guessing before she took pity on him and ordered the gargoyles to grant the old wizard entrance.
"Sorry Albus, must have slipped my mind to give you the password which is 'happy days' by the way. Now what can I do for you professor?"
Albus was not amused, not since two students decided they couldn't be bothered turning up to his lesson. "Headmistress McGonagall, I wish to report two students deliberately missing my class this morning. I saw them both at breakfast yet they didn't attend their scheduled potions lesson."
He placed the register on her desk where the names of Harry Potter and Hermione Granger were highlighted. "My apologies Professor Dumbledore but I will deal with this matter immediately!"
Minerva reached for a quill and scored through both the highlighted names as Albus was almost in an apoplectic rage, "What is the meaning of this Minerva?"
"It's quite simple Professor Dumbledore, neither Lord Potter nor his betrothed wish to come within fifty feet of you. Manipulating Harry was one thing but going after Miss Granger is something they will never forgive you for, any chance you had of regaining their trust died when you visited the Granger home. They were both in the castle this morning to consult with me regarding their continuing education, and to invite me to diner tonight. Pomona and I will be dining with them and the other champions, Filius will be in charge of Hogwarts, was their anything else Professor Dumbledore?"
Albus felt he was dismissed like a misbehaving first year as he made his way down the familiar spiral stairs, that Harry wanted nothing to do with him was a body blow. The boy must be brought back under his watchful eye but he would have to let the dust settle before making his effort at reconciliation, at least Albus would still be involved in the tournament since he had been headmaster when the names were drawn. He would have to watch carefully for any opportunities that presented themselves before the boy became too independent, the last thing Albus wanted was Harry Potter surrounded by competent people offering advice but it would appear that was exactly what was happening. He'd lost Hogwarts, appeared set to lose the chief warlock title and was now loosing control of Harry, maybe this tournament wasn't such a good idea in the first place.
-oOoOo-
Victor took the note from the beautiful bird which was clearly waiting on an answer, an invitation to dine with Lord Potter, his family and friends, the other champions and some professors. He quickly replied in the affirmative as the white owl left with his answer.
Ever since Karkaroff was exposed as a death eater and barred from Hogwarts, all the fun had gone out of this competition. Where was the honour worth fighting for when the school employed a man like that to be its headmaster?
Victor had been very impressed with the way that Lord Potter had handled that whole morning, offering polite respect to Drumstrang students when he would have easily been within his rights to order them all out of the castle. The only time he had seen a crack in his sense of honour and fair play was when he spotted the three Slytherin boys at the end of the table, after having watched the memory projected on the ceiling Victor thought it was perfectly understandable. Had that been a female friend of his being attacked, the Bulgarian doubted if he could have shown the same restraint.
This seemed like a perfect chance to accomplish what he thought this trip was all about, meet people from the other schools and make friends. Something he had trouble with in Bulgaria because of his fame, he would have to ask Lord Potter how he coped with his. After all Victor had only become famous recently, while the-boy-who-lived had been dealing with the problem his whole life.
-oOoOo-
Hedwig also distributed a few more invitations at lunchtime, Ron Weasley sat and watched as, one by one, Susan Bones, Hannah Abbot, Daphne Greengrass, Tracy Davis and Millicent Bulstrode were all invited to dinner at Potter's tonight. He watched as surprise and excitement raced through each girl's face when they received their invitations from Hedwig, Millicent appeared ready to pass out with shock!
Ron watched all this as an outsider, contemplating what might have been until the twins sat beside him, "No letters from Hedwig for you pair, looks like Potter doesn't want you two around either!"
"Au contraire little brother, we shall both be dining with the rather lovely Miss Delacour tonight."
"Not to mention Victor Krum!"
"Fred I told you not to mention Victor Krum, our little Ronniekins here is all sensitive about that. Anyway Harry already asked us to dinner earlier in the week to discuss some business with him."
"Sorry George, I thought you meant just add 'not to mention' in front of the world's second best seeker, I won't mention we're having dinner with Victor Krum again."
"That's the best thing to do there brother, it must be hard for our youngest here to realise that he's made such a balls up of everything that Harry now rates Millicent Bulstrode a better friend to him than Ronniekins here."
"Yeah a fact that the prat seems only too willing to prove every chance he gets."
"Next thing you know Percy will be getting an invite."
"You did it again George, took that joke too far, you need to learn to quit while you're ahead, Harry inviting Percy!"
"But Fred, in the concept we're using at this time it's relevant. At the moment, there is more chance of Harry inviting Percy to dinner than Ron."
"At the moment, there's more chance of Harry inviting Snape than Ron!"
"And you accused me of taking things to far?"
Ron was trying to tune out both of his brothers as he assessed the situation, it was indeed a bad day when the only crumb of comfort available was that Harry hadn't invited Percy – well not that he knew of anyway!
Chapter 8
Emma was being introduced to the guests as they arrived. She'd already met the Gryffindor contingent in the castle yesterday but the rest were strangers, she definitely wanted to cast her eyes over this Fleur girl. Putting a rival for your boyfriend straight was something Emma could understand but then inviting her to dinner? Only Harry and her daughter could come up with something like that. She noticed the blond girl and, while no one could deny she was beautiful, Emma felt she was right. A worried Hermione had exaggerated the problem. That was until Hermione introduced the blond girl as Daphne Greengrass!
Victor Krum and Cedric Diggory were next to arrive and Emma found her hand being kissed by the handsome Bulgarian. Not to be outdone, the dashing Cedric followed the other champion's example.
Minerva and Pomona followed, expressing their delight at being invited. While Emma's attention was diverted, suddenly a girl who could only be Fleur Delacour was in front of her without warning. Emma's first instinct was to look for Dan but she crushed that mercilessly, if Hermione could invite this goddess to dinner then she was not going to embarrass her daughter. She greeted the girl in French before kissing her on both cheeks, pleased that she'd held herself together while proud of her daughter for the way she was handling this. If Harry could resist the charms of Miss Delacour because of his love for Hermione then any semblance of doubt or uncertainty was removed from her mind. Harry Potter was going to be her son-in-law one day and nothing she or anyone else said was going to matter.
Dan also greeted Fleur in the same manner as his wife, this was the girl who lost out to his daughter and all he could think of was that Harry had impeccable taste. Dan's love for his wife and daughter left him unaffected by any Veela allure. He would quite happily admit she was beautiful but, like Harry, in his opinion Hermione would always be the most beautiful girl in the world. Except for her mother of course.
The next guests shocked Hermione but, being with Harry she was starting to get used to things like this. After the girl stopped hugging and kissing Harry, Hermione found herself with her arms full of a very excited Penelope Clearwater.
"Oh Hermione it's so good to see you again. I was so happy to learn that you and Harry had got together, everyone else saw it but you two. I couldn't believe it when I got that owl from Gringotts, I screamed so much that Percy barged in with his wand drawn. That cheque changed our lives and now it looks like we both got our wizards."
Penelope flashed her new engagement ring and glanced lovingly at her fiancé who was currently talking awkwardly with their host. "Don't mind him Harry, Percy dear has had a rather trying week. Your invitation arrived and I thought that's just what we need, dinner with some friends to celebrate our engagement!"
Penelope and Percy as a couple always reminded Harry of a little weather house his aunt Petunia had. The woman coming out indicating it was going to be sunny while the man's appearance forecast rain, both lived in the same house but never got together. Penelope was pure sunshine while Percy could cast a cloud over anything. If he mentioned 'cauldron bottom thickness' tonight then Harry would revoke both twin's promise of good behaviour and allow them free reign.
McGonagall informed him that Penelope had been writing to her, desperate to thank Harry for his generosity so he decided to get everything over with on the same night. His plans for the weekend included nothing but Hermione and some time to get to know her parents better.
Percy actually looked ill so Harry decided not to tease him too much. "Yeah things must be rough at the ministry when you discover that the Minister of Magic is the biggest crook in the country. Add to that the Head of International Magical Cooperation was using unforgivable's on his death eater son, who he actually broke out of Azkaban, to force his cooperation."
Percy's face lost any semblance of colour but that might just be the fact that he spotted his twin brothers. "Rough week" was his only comment before kissing Hermione on the cheek and moving on with Penelope to meet the others, already wishing he'd stayed at home.
Millicent was using every scrap of her willpower to prevent herself hyperventilating. She just had no way of dealing with this situation without coming across as a stupid, giggling little girl, which would probably ensure she never got an invite again. Merlin's beard though, she, Millicent Bulstrode was sitting across from Victor Krum having dinner!
With four tri-wiz champions, three heads of house, two muggle parents and the new Headmistress of Hogwarts, Millicent had to stifle the giggles at the thought of a partridge in a pear tree. This was illustrious company for the girl who could hardly get any one to talk with her in Slytherin, never mind the rest of the school.
The conversation was morphing from one subject to the next, no one person hogging it and everyone participating. Victor's deep voice might have been heavily accented but Millie hung on his every word. She was desperately trying to memorise everything around her so she could spend days telling her mother about the best night of her life when she went home for Christmas.
The attention switched in Percy's direction with mention of the new acting minister, Minerva asked him what he thought of Deloris and he mumbled some meaningless platitude back. Harry interrupted him.
"Percy, you're a former Gryffindor head boy, when McGonagall asks for your opinion that's what she wants. Your opinion, not some sanitised press release."
The pressure that Percy had been feeling all week exploded from the young man. "Deloris Umbridge is a cunning, conniving, backstabbing, eat your baby for breakfast if it furthers her career, walking pile of shit! Is that what you wanted to hear Lord Potter?"
"If that is your opinion, then that is exactly what I wanted to hear. Look around you Percy and you'll see our world is changing, yesterday most of the students in Hogwarts drew their wands and stood for justice against a team of aurors. Susan my thanks because I know it must have been particularly hard for you to do."
A blushing but beaming Susan answered, "I did it because it was the right thing to do Harry."
"That's what I mean though, we all have an opportunity here to change our world. We have reshaped Hogwarts and, with Luna's writing and Colin's pictures, we can now tell the truth about just what is going on around us. This will only work if people are courageous enough to stand up for what they believe in. It's time for straight talking and telling people what they need to know, not saying what you think people want to hear."
Penelope's eyes fastened on the little blond, "You write for the Quibbler? Oh I always wanted to be a journalist but you need to have the right connections even to get an interview for the Prophet."
Luna laughed, "If you're looking for a job then I have pretty good connections at the Quibbler. We're swamped at the moment and that's before tomorrows edition hits, we're anticipating a mountain of owls ordering Colin's fabulous picture of Harry that's being printed as a poster for charity."
All eyes turned to Harry at this revelation but there was a look of intense concentration on his face that caused Sirius to audibly gulp. "Oh shit, here we go again! Whose life gets changed forever this time?"
Harry's attention swung to the Bulgarian, "Victor, what is your favourite charity?"
Victor had been given some coaching on how to answer questions after matches but, bearing in mind what Harry had said to the eldest redhead, he chose to be completely honest on this occasion. "My favourite charity is a local orphanage near my home. I do not make a lot of money yet because of my age and all the merchandising sold using my name - I never see a Knut of that! Fortunately a little gold goes a long way in my country but I give mostly of my time with the children which they and I enjoy. I had intended any prize money I won from this competition would be donated there." Victor's English may have been heavenly accented but the emotion in his voice broke through any and all language barriers.
Harry was so pleased he had invited Victor here tonight, "What if I could promise you at least a thousand Galleons to donate to that orphanage? Would you be interested?"
McGonagall cleared her throat, "Lord Potter, is this something that myself and others should be listening to?"
"Professor I'm deeply hurt. My betrothed's parents are here and I'm trying to make a good impression, not helped by you thinking your star pupil is up to no good!"
A round of chuckles turned to laughter at McGonagall's quick answer, "If Miss Granger gets up to no good, it's because of the company she keeps."
Harry steered the conversation back onto topic, "The poster of myself will be sold with all monies raised going to charity. I just had the thought that a poster of the four champions would probably sell even more, providing funds for the champions to donate to a charity of their choice."
Millicent couldn't help herself, "I would definitely buy at least one Harry!"
His smile had the Slytherin blushing, "Thank you Millicent, since you're our first potential customer I'll see that it gets signed as well." Millie just got her Christmas present early.
Harry's attention turned to the French girl who had also decided that honesty would be the best policy here, "I think that is a very good idea though I am ashamed to say that I have never even thought of a charity, but Victor's words moved me so much I would like any share of mine to go to that orphanage."
Ever the gentleman, Cedric came to the French Veela's aid, "There is no need to feel ashamed Fleur, I have no charity in mind either. Like you would really like to see any share of mine go where it's needed most, an orphanage in Bulgaria sounds fine to me."
A smiling Harry turned his attention back to Victor, "So we're agreed, the first four thousand galleons go to the orphanage that Victor nominated and we'll discuss any funds exceeding that amount if and when the need arises."
Hermione was so proud of her betrothed she couldn't contain herself, though with her parents and McGonagall here she limited it to a quick kiss o the cheek that promised so much more later. "Harry I think you should see Barchoke about setting up your own charitable company, how about a logo? A snowy owl icon could let people know they're buying a genuine product. We could also find out if there was anyway Victor could stop all these people making money from his name. Ron bought that action figure and it stopped working shortly after the world cup, leaving a lot of people thinking Victor was associated with shoddy goods and poor workmanship."
The expression of adoration on Harry's face confirmed to the entire room these two were meant to be together, Percy though was still smarting from the earlier comment and thought it was time for some payback. "What about Ron Harry, why isn't he here tonight? He was your best friend after all."
The whole mood of the evening changed and Penelope was ready to slap her boyfriend when Harry's cool and steady voice answered. "Ron has also had a very eventful week, when my name came out of the goblet his jealousy overwhelmed him and he accused me of being a cheating liar. As Hermione and I entered the great hall hand-in-hand he celebrated both of us getting together by firing a curse at us. He's now curtailed himself to verbal sniping at every opportunity, hardly the actions of a best friend."
Percy found himself the recipient of quite a few death glares from people who'd witnessed most of Ron's behaviour.
"Hermione and I have also had quite the week, death eaters entering me in the competition, becoming betrothed then Dumbledore cursing Hermione's father to remove her from Hogwarts. Aurors turning up here to arrest us for protecting Luna and my personal guilty pleasure, my godfather pissing all over Lucius Malfoy in the great hall."
Harry felt Hermione's hand slip into his, "Now I think that would give me more of a reason than you Percy to be a grumpy bastard. Instead I choose to look at the situation in a positive manner, I've just spent my evening having a great dinner with friends, family and the girl I love. What could be better than that?"
Penelope had her head down in embarrassment when Ginny spoke to her, "Penelope, if that stupid brother of mine doesn't get off his sorry arse and do something quickly, I'm going to slap him silly. Oh and welcome to the family, we could sure use some more female Weasleys."
Percy cottoned on to the not so subtitle hints and death glares from everyone present, his fiancée was such a likable girl and his actions had left most wondering about her choice of partner. "I'm sorry Penelope, I should be celebrating becoming engaged to the most wonderful woman instead of worrying about what might happen at work. Can you forgive me?"
A quick kiss and make up later earned a comment from George, "Hey Percy, do you give lessons?"
"Yeah because we just happen to know another Weasley who needs to learn to say sorry, wonder if you could talk to him." was Fred's contribution.
Harry decided to nip this in the bud before it went any further, they had been on their best behaviour and now it was time for their reward. "Guys, this is Padfoot and Moony. These gentlemen would like to talk some business with you." Fred and George Weasley were very effectively neutralised for the night, not even their elder brother would be pranked.
Emma nudged Harry and whispered in is ear, he nodded before standing. "I've just been informed we should offer a toast the happy couple since we are the first one's to hear the news. Penelope and Percy, I would like us all to wish you every happiness and strapping's for your ribs after you tell Molly about this. We'll probably hear her squeals of delight all the way from Devon. After all, it is only about five hundred miles!"
Anyone who'd ever seen Molly with her children was laughing as they stood to toast the very red faced but happy couple.
"Emma, could you take the Professors into the library? They should find the books we took from the chamber interesting, there's a volume on transfiguration by Godric Gryffindor that Professor McGonagall may wish to borrow."
Minerva and Pomona practically dragged Emma with Dan following on as they headed towards this treasure.
"Colin do you have…"
Harry was interrupted as Dobby appeared beside the boy with his camera equipment. "Dobby you're amazing! You and Winky did a fabulous job tonight, please thank her for me. Colin and Luna, if you want to come with us we could get this done just now. Hermione love, could you take our guests through to the lounge, I guarantee we will be quicker than the other two groups."
Harry led them through to the training room which they all admired while Colin set up his equipment.
"This is brilliant, the goblins certainly know how to look after their champion."
"Cedric you're welcome to use this, the library or any other facilities at any time, same for Fleur and Victor."
"Harry why are you doing this?" Victor asked, in his experience when someone 'gave' you something there was usually a price to be paid.
"It's simple really, this whole tournament is supposed to be about promoting better relations between our schools, I suggest that's exactly what we do. Originally my only aim here was to promote the goblins, tweak the ministry's nose and hopefully survive the bloody thing. I now find myself thinking those goals will only work if we all survive unscathed. I know from first hand experience just how dangerous this place can be and don't want to see anyone hurt, or even worse!"
Harry was now the recipient of thoughtful looks from his fellow champions, "All I'm suggesting is we don't buy into this 'honour of my school depends on me' rubbish, by becoming friends we can sill enjoy a bit of rivalry without the madness that comes with it. Yes we compete to the best of our abilities but watch each other's backs throughout. I know I'm the youngest so could probably benefit most from this but I can assure you I will hold up my end of the bargain."
Fleur was already convinced, "What you did today spoke volumes about your character, I said then that I would be delighted to be your friend and nothing has changed that. I would like to win but not at the expense of someone here getting hurt, I like your idea of supporting one another very much."
Victor was also nodding, "My main reason for coming to Hogwarts was to hopefully make friends but our headmaster has us virtually confined to the ship. He is obsessed with winning this tournament for Drumstrang but I am not. I become a professional Quidditch player this summer and a bad injury could end my career before it begins. All too please a headmaster who is a death eater, I think not. I very much like the idea of someone guarding my back and have no worries that Harry will not be up to the task."
Cedric was already sold on the concept, "Great idea so count me in, does that mean that if one of us discovers what the first task is they'll inform the other three?"
Harry waited until both Victor and Fleur had nodded in agreement before answering, "Funny you should say that, Colin and Luna you need to promise to keep this quiet…"
In the library Minerva was so engrossed in the selections available that the headmistress of Hogwarts forgot all about the Weasley twins meeting with two of the biggest pranksters ever to come through the school. A decision that would have Minerva shaking her head for many years to come and wishing for early retirement.
Fred and George were jubilant, not only was their dream going to become a reality but they were going into partnership with their heroes. With financial backing and pranking input from two marauders, WWW couldn't fail to be successful.
Much to the astonishment of their guests, Hermione had a CD playing as the elves made sure everybody had a refreshment. Penelope and Percy actually had an ice bucket containing a bottle of Champagne as he tried to redeem himself for his earlier crass behaviour.
Hermione found herself chatting with three Slytherins, Tracy was curious how a Gryffindor ended up head of Slytherin, she tried to explain. "Sirius is a pureblood who rebelled against his family's dark beliefs. He doesn't have any pureblood bigotry, Sirius just doesn't think it's important in the grand scheme of things. We're talking about a man who escaped Azkaban because he knew his godson was in danger. A man who has more justification than most for becoming bitter and twisted yet, as you've seen tonight, he's the life and soul of the party. Slytherin house needs to change direction or it will cease to exist, never doubt for a second that Sirius won't do his very best to achieve that, it's just not in him to do any less."
Daphne was desperate to find out how she and Harry had managed to save him, "I mean he was in a locked room in the tower, I know you're both clever but I just can't see how you pulled it off!"
"We had help from a feathered friend who I now wish had ripped Draco's arm right off." The gasps from the three girls made Hermione smile, she had no intention of mentioning the time turner to anyone.
Millicent decided to be brave and ask the question that had been driving her nuts since Hedwig had made her oh so special delivery. "Hermione, why was I invited here tonight? I'm still ashamed that I listened to that arse Malfoy over those badges."
"That's exactly why you were invited Millicent. You realised it was wrong and admitted your mistake in front of the entire great hall, that took a lot of courage and is exactly the attitude Slytherin is going to have to adopt if it's going to be saved. Don't think we didn't notice you girls up on your feet with wands drawn yesterday, that was a pretty humbling experience actually. When Harry offered his friendship he wasn't joking, he doesn't joke about things like that."
"I hope he wasn't joking about that poster either, I really will buy that!" The sincerity in Millicent's voice meant the others just smiled at her, to tease her obvious hero worship would have been cruel and she was amongst friends.
Harry was right, his group was back well before the others, the twins and marauders were swapping tales of pranks while crowbars plus a block and tackle might be needed to get a certain two witches out the library.
The other three champions were a lot more relaxed. Yes a dragon was certainly no picnic but at least now they were aware of what faced them and could plan for it, the unknown had been getting to them. Luna had taken a small bio from each of the four champions which would appear on the poster while Colin was delighted with the shots he took and already planning the best way to take pictures of their contest's against the dragons.
The dinner was splitting up as people headed home when Harry pulled Ginny aside, "Could you give this to Ron but it's probably better if you don't mention my name."
Ginny read the piece of parchment before throwing her arms around Harry and kissing his cheek, "You're a far better friend than that jealous arse deserves."
Harry just smiled, "I can be a moody git as well sometimes, you do realise he's eventually going to push it too far and it will come to blows? There's no coming back from that so we'll just try and stay out his way for now."
Hermione noticed what Ginny held in her hand and her reaction was the same as the redheads, though this time the kiss was not on the cheek. "You Mr Potter have continually surprised me tonight, now I think it's time we bid our final few guests goodnight then you can start working on saying goodnight to me!"
Ginny tried not to laugh as Harry almost pushed her out the door, after all she couldn't fault his motives.
-oOoOo-
On discovering that he was the only Weasley sibling in the country who never got invited to Harry's dinner, Ron was gutted. He was so gutted that his famous temper never ignited, there was just no spark there.
Ginny sat beside her brother and handed a slip of parchment, "This is for you."
Ron read it and his hands began to tremble 'to Ron Weasley, Best wishes Victor Krum' He had his arm around his sister and tears in his eyes, "Thank you Ginny, you know how much this means to me? I wouldn't have had the courage to ask him for his autograph."
Ginny felt such a fraud, "I'm sorry Ron, I didn't get this for you. Harry did!"
Ron didn't know what to think, his big mouth had insulted Harry again today yet he'd asked Victor Krum for an autograph because Harry knew that Ron was desperate for one. He slowly made his way up to bed, eyes never leaving the precious parchment as his mind once more worked on the problem.
-oOoOo-
Acting Minister Deloris Umbridge sat at the ministers desk and smiled at this morning's edition of the Prophet, a toad faced woman wearing a pink cardigan smiled back at her from the front page as she began her quest to lose the word 'acting' from her job title.
Her plan was amazingly simple, tell the people exactly what they wanted to hear, claim credit for everything positive that happens while blaming her rivals every time something negative couldn't be silenced. Deloris had built her career using this method, that and being utterly ruthless with anyone who stood in her way.
Her front page story in the Prophet was the typical example of what the newspaper stood for, take a few facts and write the story whatever way suited their current needs. With Deloris leaning on them their current needs were to make her the next minister.
The headline set the tone of the entire newspaper.
You-Know-Who Dead!
Lord-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named Delusional!
The newspaper then went on to rubbish reports of a dead death eater teaching at Hogwarts while a ministerial conspiracy involving Fudge / Malfoy / Crouch was discovered and acted upon by none other than Deloris Umbridge.
As the wizarding public didn't want the dark lord to return, the acting minister was sure they would fall over themselves to believe every word of this. That theory lasted until an edition of the Quibbler landed on her desk and fairly ruined her morning. Something would have to be done about this!
-oOoOo-
Ginny rapidly approached a smiling Colin at breakfast, clutching a copy of the Prophet. "How can you sit there all calm and smiling, everyone here knows this is a load of tripe but others will believe this. I thought Harry was your friend?"
"Ginny calm down, yes Harry is my friend and I'm not worried because I know what's coming next."
Before she could grill any information out of the boy, Ginny was interrupted by the arrival of the Quibbler and a strange silence settled over the previously restless great hall. She managed to catch the front page and never even noticed the headline, her entire being was focused on the picture that was causing most of the females in Hogwarts to drool. Sweet Merlin but Harry was so hot that boy should carry a ministerial health warning! Ginny eventually noticed the headline but had no idea how much time had passed in the process:
Dual Hogwarts Heir Wields Gryffindor's Blade in Defence of Castle!
The story went on to report on the captures and confessions, the exoneration of Sirius Black, the arrests and the background story that led to the whole episode, namely Draco Malfoy's attempted rape of a young pureblood witch. Luna's name wasn't mentioned but Draco and his cronies being stopped in their attempt, expelled from Hogwarts and their magic bound was all present in great detail.
Also covered was the probation of Slytherin house, how Lord Potter became the Heir of Slytherin as well as Gryffindor, the contempt Salazar Slytherin held for the half blood bastard Tom Riddle aka Lord Voldemort and a full section entitled, Dumbledore – worst headmaster ever?
With Dumbledore, Snape and Binns all losing their positions, the new staff structure at Hogwarts also made great reading.
Ginny could now understand why Colin was smiling, next to the Quibbler the Prophet was at best a joke with the new acting minister made to appear an arse. The most interesting thing in the entire edition of the Quibbler though was the order form for the Harry Potter poster. Since this was the only way to lay hands on the much coveted item, the paper sold every copy of its record breaking print.
The picture of Deloris Umbridge that adorned the front page of the Prophet was no longer smiling, in all honesty she appeared ready to commit murder. The fact that no one even noticed as they were far too interested in the Quibbler did not improve the toad's disposition.
Ron Weasley was once more sitting alone, when he'd spied the front page of the Quibbler he'd almost started off on an anti-Potter rant again, almost. His thoughts drifted to his trunk that now contained his most prised possession, a possession that the person he was about to rant against had acquired for him. A calm Ron knew Harry well enough to know that it would not be an easy thing for him to ask for an autograph, he absolutely hated it when anyone asked for one from the-boy-who-lived.
'Why would Harry do this for him?' was added to 'Why would Harry prefer Hermione to a Veela?' as questions he needed to find the answers to, he also figured that the longer he took the less chance there was that he would ever get his friend back. Ron was sitting pondering this when Hermes flew towards him with a note from Percy, his brother was offering to help Ron work out his problem. Citing how he had recently allowed his ambitions to hurt Penelope, a thing he swore would never happen again, how he had the error of his ways forcibly pointed out to him and quickly apologised to his fiancée.
The passage that really got Ron's attention, and reminded him of just how clever Percy actually was, came near the end of the letter. 'Saying sorry isn't meant to be easy but sometimes it's not just the right thing to do, it's the only thing left you can do.'
Ron left for a wander around the castle, hoping for some inspiration to solve his problems. Instead he got Sir Cadogan following him from painting to painting, continually berating Ron and challenging him to a duel, sometimes you just couldn't catch a break!
-oOoOo-
Harry and Hermione were currently enjoying a break from all the troubles that seemed to follow them around wherever they went, instead the pair were like young couples the world over and spending their Saturday on a date. As if to illustrate that they weren't like young couples the world over they had Hermione's parents along with them, to prove this point even more they had to keep their eyes on the adults as they meandered through the magical village.
Dan Granger was a happy man, his daughter was walking in front of them, holding her boyfriend's hand as they chatted away to each other. Discounting the magical surroundings, this is what Dan had been mentally prepared for. Not the betrothal, life mate because a Veela was after his daughter's boyfriend, this Dan could handle.
He also felt better after his discussion with Remus. Dan was concerned about the power these rings wielded over Harry, maybe he'd just read Tolkien one too many times but a ring talking to you was not a good sign in any book he'd ever read. Remus explained that the rings offered Harry advice and helped to communicate with the castle, the decisions were still his to make. That a teenager found himself in this situation in the first place was a whole different ballgame and Remus had to prevent Dan bringing this up with Sirius. He'd just got his friend back and didn't want him ending up in Azkaban for attacking the Dursleys or Dumbledore for their treatment of Harry.
Hermione had alluded to Harry's home life not being what it should be, then with everything that happened to him in Hogwarts it's no wonder the boy grabbed the first opportunity to gain control of his life. For all this Dan couldn't fault the boy's manners or treatment of his daughter, how do you ask a lad about his prospects and if he'll be able to look after Hermione when he gives over a million pounds away because he didn't think he had earned it? Both parents had looked back over Hermione's letters sent home since she started attending Hogwarts and it was now easy to see her affection building for this boy, the fact that she always talked about him when at home was something they had just gotten used to.
Harry was so happy even the stares from the villagers couldn't dent his mood, the fact that it wasn't a Hogsmead weekend and his picture was on the front page of the Quibbler only added to the attention he was receiving. The reason for his happiness was currently holding his hand as they window shopped and explained to her parents what some of the sights were, Harry thought having to face a dragon was a small price to pay for Hermione being his girlfriend.
Just holding her in his arms was enough to keep Harry smiling all day but when she kissed him like she did last night then there was nothing that could wipe the grin off his face. Hermione seemed determined to make up for all the years he was without affection and love, she promised to let him know how she felt about him every single day from now on and that was a future Harry was looking forward to.
It was hard for him to accept that Hermione had so little self esteem that she struggled to believe Harry could want to be with her, the kiss when he explained to Fleur that Hermione was the only girl for him blew his mind. Their kissing had escalated to the point that his hands had began wandering and he was forced to stop before he blew it, pushing her into something she wasn't ready for was just not going to happen. They had every intention of being together for a long, long time so there was no need to rush.
He was already making plans for Christmas to convey how much he loved this girl who had radically changed his life, it would have to be something special though as his Hermione deserved the best.
Hermione was currently in heaven, she was with Harry and her parents were accepting the situation, though she would have to be careful to keep her 'displays of affection' to a minimum in their presence or that could quickly change. She understood her mother's concern because as soon as she started kissing Harry all her common sense and intellect left her, it was replaced with a hormonal teenager who had the boy she loved in her arms. Harry had been the sensible one up until now but she'd been physically close enough to him last night to understand how hard it was for Harry to make that decision without him needing to say anything. Her boyfriend had a will of iron, which was probably just as well.
Hermione hadn't envisaged herself kissing ever so the fact that Harry thought she was attractive and professed to love her had released something from inside that she was struggling to control, probably because she wasn't sure if she wanted to control it. Her whole life was about control yet when Harry glanced at her with those sparkling green eyes she would have said yes to anything. Part of her knew she was going to have to get a hold of this but she was so going to enjoy building up her 'kissing Harry' tolerance levels, it could take years of extensive research and practical studies with very little written notes being taken!
-oOoOo-
Albus read the article concerning him in the Quibbler and thought he was probably fortunate that Harry had forced him to step down as headmaster, this article would not only have cost him his job but also seen him kicked out the castle as well.
When his blunders were listed like this there would have been no other option left open to the board, employing Voldemort with the stone in the school, that clown Lockheart and the Basilisk, the whole Sirius Black / Dementors fiasco. This was then topped off by one of his friends being replaced by a polyjuiced death eater, who was thought to be dead yet managed to enter an under aged student into a dangerous competition. That his decisions had endangered students, especially Harry Potter was beyond refuting.
Getting from this position to one where Harry Potter trusted him again could go down as his greatest ever achievement, especially with most of the students now so loyal to the boy. This was when the old wizard had his brain wave, not all the students had supported Harry and one in particular came to mind. He could subtlety inform Ronald Weasley what Harry would be facing in the first task, thus the boy would be back with his friend and it would soon become clear where Ronald gained the knowledge, ingratiating Harry to Albus. The only problem that he could foresee was using the words 'subtlety' and 'Ronald Weasley' in the same sentence, even Hagrid handled the concept better and may be a good back-up plan.
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Peter Pettigrew was currently disguised by use of a glamour charm, applied by his master because it was beyond his capabilities as a wizard. The dark lord demanded information and, thanks to Potter his rat form was a one-way ticket to a wooden box so Peter was now the proud owner of red curly hair and a bushy ginger beard.
His eyes were almost popping out his head at the details revealed by this issue of the Quibbler. Informing his master that Potter was now the heir of Slytherin because he'd defeated the half blood bastard Riddle three times in combat was an even quicker and surer way to end up in the aforementioned wooden box.
Panic set in immediately as he spied the young couple strolling toward him, he had no trouble recognising Potter and Granger though didn't know the older pair who were with them. The death eater only had seconds to make up his mind whether to flee or hope his disguise fooled them, remembering how smart Granger was Peter decided not to take the chance. As he apparated away, his copy of the Quibbler floated to the ground, his master could read the shit that the Prophet printed because the truth in the Quibbler would get him killed.
Ending up as snake food was a long haul away from the wealthy and powerful future Peter had imagined for himself all those years ago when he became a death eater. Spending thirteen years as a rat and then nursing the most powerful but ugliest baby on the planet was not mentioned anywhere on the death eater recruitment brochure!