Chapter 1183 - Ch: 15-16 (cont. mid)

Chapter 15 - Families

It wasn't really fair to say that dawn broke over the island prison of Azkaban. This far north, and only a couple of weeks from the summer solstice, it never actually got dark enough for dawn to be really noticeable. Today's dawn though was certainly going to be different on the island - a day like no other on the rock.

Prisoners get used to the routine of being incarcerated. For the longer term prisoners, it becomes all they have. Even small changes to that routine could be startling. Someone opening your cell door outside of routine certainly qualified as something startling.

Squinting his eyes to ensure the information they provided was correct, Merlin forbid he blurt the imagined person's name out loud and possibly make a right fool of himself. A single word finally found its way past a pair of cracked lips. "Ami?"

She stood there for what seemed like an eternity before answering. "You look like shit, Sirius."

Yip, that was definitely Ami Bones. "And you still tell it like it is."

Desperately trying not to get his hopes up, the marauder attempted to insert some humour into a situation that clearly didn't have any. "Don't take this the wrong way, Ami, but I hope you're not sneaking into my room to have your wicked way with me..."

"Sirius, we caught Pettigrew..."

He tried not to react, he really did. Stopping the tears running down his cheeks was just never going to happen. That Sirius managed not to break down sobbing was going to be counted by him as a massive victory. Of all the questions that now flooded into his thoughts, there was one that he really needed to know the answer to. "My godson, Harry?"

"It was Harry who discovered him. Your godson has this unbelievable map of Hogwarts that led us straight to the little rat bastard. We hardly had to lean on Pettigrew at all before he was spilling his guts and telling us everything. How he got sorted into Gryffindor I'll never know. You're free, Sirius, and I'll make sure the rat gets allocated this cell when we ship his arse to Azkaban."

Sirius then lost his so recently hard won victory. Sirius Black sobbed like a baby. As Amelia helped him to his feet and out of the cell door, Sirius just kept repeating the same phrase over and over again.

"My godson's a Marauder, my godson's a Marauder..."

In a different part of the prison, another cell door opened.

"Well, you are the last person I expected to see."

"If there is one thing my many years have taught me, it's that none of us know what's around the corner. How have you been, Severus?"

"This is obviously not a social call, Albus. Do us both a favour and get straight to the point."

"Oh I'm sorry, Severus. I didn't realise you got to talk with people all day and were tired of conversation. You are right though, I am here for a specific reason. The traps on the third floor were sprung. Unfortunately, some students thought they were set up specifically as a challenge to them."

"Let me guess, stupid Gryffindors. Why should I care?"

"A student consumed at least one of your poison potions."

There was nothing said for a moment or two before Severus reiterated his earlier position. "Again, why should I care? You are the headmaster, I did exactly what you asked. The fault is yours."

"That is the position I have taken on this matter but, unfortunately, it is known who brewed the potions. If you refuse to help, you may find yourself facing further charges. At the very least, those two years of your sentence currently suspended will be enforced."

Finding himself once more between a rock and a hard place, Severus wanted to rage at the injustice of this. The fact that he'd been a model prisoner from the day and hour he'd been dumped in this shithole apparently just counted for nothing. He was now being held accountable for something Dumbledore had practically ordered him to do, and he'd actually almost forgotten all about. Sometimes, fate just had it in for him.

"If I do help, what's in it for me?"

Anticipating this argument, Albus had discussed this specific scenario with Amelia on their way to Azkaban. "Save this boy's life and I'm positive we can at least waive those extra two years, with a distinct possibility of early release. You do realise however that working in Britain again wouldn't really be an option?"

Having worked that out the same day he'd been sentenced, Severus only nodded.

"If the boy dies, I'm afraid the future is looking bleak for both of us. I understand this is not your fault, rather a miscalculation on my part. I will state that very fact in court but I fear, should the worse happen, the student's death would have a terrible effect on everyone involved."

Suddenly having a horrendous thought, Severus just had to ask the question that popped into his head. "This boy who drank the poison, is it Potter?"

"Severus, I'm disappointed that information would make a difference to your decision. Let me categorically state that the boy in question is not Harry Potter. I'll give you a magical oath to that effect if you so wish." Albus had no intention of telling Severus any details of what happened tonight, and Amelia agreed he would be kept incommunicado while working on this.

Knowing the complexity of Severus' potions, Albus had to concede that a simple bezoar wouldn't save Ronald Weasley. The boy would also be dead long before any other potions master could begin to decipher what specific poisons he had actually drank. Albus really didn't want to consider the possibility that the boy might have consumed more than one. If that were to be the case, then even Severus' great skill might not be enough to save Molly and Arthur's youngest son.

Although he was taking a few minutes to supposedly make his mind up, both wizards in that cell understood Severus really didn't have a decision to make. The mere chance of early release - balanced against the absolute certainty of at least another two years added to his sentence - ensured Severus Snape was going to do his utmost to save this stupid Gryffindor.

"I'm assuming we won't be doing any brewing in this cell?"

"If you're agreeable, we'll leave at once for St. Mungo's."

Severus stood and walked out of his cell, hopefully for the last time.

-oOoOo-

With the senior staff being up all night, and the defence professor being dead, classes were canceled on Friday. Since exams had finished yesterday, this was looked upon by the students as a welcome break. That was until Lavender and Parvati began to spread throughout the school the epic story of what had actually taken place last night.

Harry and Hermione grabbed the twins for a quiet chat, only to discover McGonagall had already told them Ron was in a bad way. He'd been transferred to St. Mungo's and both their parents were now keeping a vigil by his bedside. Harry tried to apologise for not getting to Ron quickly enough but the twins were having none of it.

"The way we heard it, Ron was facing you-know-who on his own."

"Yeah, and about to be murdered - until you stepped out from under your cloak."

Fred then got as serious as the twins ever get. "It's only thanks to both of you we've still got a younger brother. If Ron loses this battle, it's not your fault. You did everything you possibly could, no one can ask for more than that."

There were some strong embraces between the four, and a lot of surreptitious eye wiping. George then got things back to normal. Well, as normal as possible for when the Weasley twins were involved.

"Just one thing, Harry. Did you really tell one of the deadliest dark lords in history to fuck off?"

Hermione wrapped her arms around her man. Offering Harry all the comfort she could while trying to keep things light. Only she knew Harry had cried in her arms last night because he had ended a man's life.

"Yes he did. That was after my hero sprung to my defence. He disarmed Voldemort and then punched his face in."

Harry tried to smile, but it was hard.

As the day progressed, the unwanted attention got so bad it was actually a welcome break to sit in their private rooms and listen to Neville's somewhat normal problems.

"I like Parvati, I really do. One kiss though and she's already picking the wedding dress - with her sister and Lavender as bridesmaids. I know you two are very happy with the commitment you've made, but I'm nowhere near ready for something like that. How did you two figure out what you wanted?"

Hermione was sitting on Harry's knee, she hadn't been out of physical contact with him since the incident last night. She'd almost dragged Harry in the shower with her this morning. He'd past the offer bye, saying he wanted the first time they saw each other naked in these bodies to be special - and he didn't feel special today. Since the kiss he gave her in thanks for offering just about curled her toes, Hermione wasn't really complaining. While the spirit was certainly willing, both of them thought these bodies were still too young for anything other than kissing.

"It was simple, Neville. Any boy who would take on a troll with his bare hands to save you really has to be a keeper." This actually drew a small smile from Harry, before he got serious again.

"It really is simple, Nev. I love her with everything that I am. Explaining that is the hard part. Her happiness means much more to me than my own, her life too. When Voldemort ordered Quirrell to kill the bitch with his bare hands, I forgot all about magic and attacked him like a wild animal. I would have bitten the ugly bastard's nose off, if he had one to bite. No one is taking my Hermione away from me. They'll need to kill me first."

It was a wide-eyed Neville who stared back at them. "Well, I certainly don't feel that way about Parvati. I don't know if I could ever feel that way about anyone."

"It'll come, Nev - though probably not after just one kiss. Hermione is my future, she'll be my wife, the mother of our children. That's what Voldemort tried to take from me last night, that's why I reacted the way I did. I hope you understand, Nev, because we really value your friendship. I'd hate for this to change things between us."

Recognising this was important to Harry, Neville spoke straight from the heart. "I'm only sorry I wasn't down there with you to lend a hand. I can also only hope I would react as well, placed in a similar situation. It's obvious you're hurting over this, just like I can see Hermione is trying to help you. Anything I can do, just ask - though no kissing or cuddling. I'm leaving Hermione in charge of that."

"Thanks Nev, for everything. The rest of the school can and will think what the hell they like. Loosing friends over this would have really hurt though."

"Never going to happen, mate."

Hermione again held her man in bed all night. Harry might have been restless but she counted this as an improvement on the previous night. She was relieved and delighted her parents would be in the castle tomorrow. Dobby would have kept them informed and they would certainly help both of them cope with this.

At breakfast next morning however, things once more took a turn for the worse - from Harry's point of view that is. Far too many people knew what had actually happened so neither Harry nor Hermione had expected the story to be kept quiet. Between Lavender and Parvati, they knew just about everything that had taken place that night. Also, thanks to both the gossiping girls, the entire castle had been made aware of this - with blow by blow accounts being told to anyone who stood still long enough to hear the story.

The Daily Prophet had surprised Hermione, she'd expected all knowledge that Voldemort had tried to make a comeback to be quashed by the Ministry of Magic. The view adopted by the newspaper appeared to be that, as long as they had Harry Potter, the Dark Lord needn't be feared.

This view frightened and excited Hermione, almost in equal measures. While it gave them great leverage to begin introducing the changes they needed, the backlash should they decide to leave Hogwarts and Britain would now be off the scale. It was going to be a hard balance to maintain.

It would appear too that Harry was no longer the Boy-Who-Lived, at least if the Prophet's headline were to be believed. In a banner headline, they had rechristened him the Boy-Who-Banished.

Skimming over the story, which appeared almost factual, Hermione had to delve into the newspaper before finding what she was looking for on page seven. With a delighted squeal, she drew Harry's attention to it.

She saw his first genuine smile in a couple of days while reading that a miscarriage of justice had been rectified. The supposedly deceased Peter Pettigrew had of course been stripped of his Order of Merlin and was now in Azkaban. That Sirius Black had been cleared of all charges and currently spending some time in St Mungo's recuperating was certainly welcome news to his godson.

His morning improved even more when Dean and Seamus approached them. Both had just been released from the infirmary, though Seamus was only being let out for the duration of the quidditch match. His hands were still wrapped in bandages so he couldn't shake theirs in thanks. Hermione solved that problem by pulling him into a hug.

"I'm just glad to see you looking a lot better than when we found you."

Just then, Dumbledore stood to address the hall. The time travellers knew a long conversation with the headmaster was in their future, things would need time to settle down first however.

"By now, all of you will have heard what transpired on the third floor the other night, and why I specifically forbade anyone from going there. I'm delighted to say that our missing student, Mister Ronald Weasley, is making great strides with his latest treatment. He's now expected to make a full recovery, though probably won't be rejoining us before the end of term."

There was no cheering of that news, more a mass feeling of relief sweeping along the Gryffindor table. Fred and George wore genuine smiles for the first time since the news of the incident broke.

Harry sat beside Hermione to try and eat some breakfast, relieved his morning appeared to be improving. The rate of that improvement reached stratospheric proportions as Hagrid led three people into the hall. Harry and Hermione were expecting two of them, the third was a total surprise.

He was out his seat and moving before even realising it. Here was the person who had comforted him his entire life, Harry actually broke into a run.

Feeling as if her senses were shutting down from information overload, Petunia was physically shocked back to reality by her nephew slamming into her and holding on for dear life.

"Oh Aunt Petunia, I've missed you so, so much."

Petunia was standing in the Hogwarts Great Hall with a tearful child clinging to her, she did the only thing she could. She wrapped her arms around him while making nonsensical but comforting noises to the child.

While wiping her own eyes at the scene she was watching, and desperate to race to her own parents, Hermione had one thing she needed to do first.

She leaned in to speak quietly with the Gryffindor Quidditch Captain. "Oliver, Harry will be staying with us as long as possible before the match. He won't need a team talk today. With his aunt here, he would fly through a brick wall to win the game. Play this right and you'll get your hands on that cup today."

Having heard and now read what had happened the other night, Oliver had been very concerned that three of his team might not be able to play today. Looking over at his beaters who were now laughing and joking too, Oliver just nodded. He never expected to be in this position at the start of the season anyway, so he was just going to cut all of them some slack and enjoy today's final game.

Hermione then slammed into her mum. "You like our surprise dear?"

"Mum, you and dad are the greatest. This is the best thing you could possibly have done for Harry. You will need to tell me how you managed it though."

Hermione was soon in her father's arms as her mother whispered she would find out later. Hermione could wait.

-oOoOo-

When Emma presented the opportunity to visit Hogwarts and watch her nephew playing some sort of magical sport, Petunia had jumped at the chance. It had been a long held dream of her youth to visit the enchanted castle where her sister had attended school. Through her teenage years, Petunia had been forced to accept it was a dream she was being deliberately excluded from - yet her younger sister got to go and live there for most of the year.

She had buried that unfulfilled desire deep in her psych, and that's where the trouble began. Like a seed planted in fertile ground it had started to grow. This germination was not a healthy cultivation though. It was a malignant weed, and its name was resentment. As resentment grew stronger and stronger, it started to lignify into its terrible relative - hatred.

Petunia could admit that now. Admit that over the years her resentment had grown into hatred, and that hatred had become focused on the roots of her resentment - Lily. It had been oh so easy to transfer that hatred from her now dead sister to a baby that looked back at her with Lily's eyes.

The invitation for Petunia to finally visit Hogwarts not only felled the now virtual forrest of hatred like a chainsaw cutting through butter, it ripped any remaining stumps of resentment out by their roots and left a fertile field waiting to be sown with whatever dreams and aspirations she chose.

She had been reminded by Emma that Harry had different memories of his time spent at Privet Drive. She didn't say more pleasant memories, but Petunia knew that's what Emma meant. With her weekend visit to Hogwarts now confirmed, Petunia was as giddy as a schoolgirl. Here was a fresh start, her chance to see what was denied her the first time around with Lily. This time Petunia Dursley, nee Evans, was wanted too.

By the time Lily died, their relationship had deteriorated to the point where she hadn't even grieved for her baby sister. Petunia was far too busy cursing the magical people for dumping her unwanted nephew on their doorstep. With both Granger ladies making it abundantly clear the status quo regarding Harry's treatment by her family simply wasn't an option any more, it was time to reconsider what sort of relationship she could build with her nephew.

Arriving at the Grangers on the Friday evening, Petunia was instantly aware something was wrong. Emma said there had been some sort of attack at Hogwarts and of course their children had been right in the middle of it. While assured both Hermione and Harry were fine, there had been a fatality. They were sitting around the dinning table, waiting on someone called Dobby arriving, when Petunia gave a startled squeal. Their starters had just appeared on the table, and a strange little creature now sat amongst them.

While Petunia had already decided her treatment of Harry would have to change, discovering this little creature was looking out for her nephew radically altered the situation. They had apparently been expecting trouble the evening before and Dobby had shadowed them all night, providing the three avid listeners with a blow by blow account of exactly what had happened. On hearing that her nephew had killed a professor, who was admittedly trying to murder Hermione at the time, Petunia just didn't know what to think.

Dan Granger seemed to sit that little bit straighter while Emma was in tears at what poor Harry was forced to do. Dobby must have said he would protect his family on at least three separate occasions before Petunia understood that message was aimed at her. Dan explained that Dobby was their secret weapon, and had orders to remain invisible unless the two children found themselves in a situation they couldn't handle.

Watching as the little creature snapped its fingers and their delicious starters were replaced by a main course sent a shiver of dread down Petunia's spine. The creature's size obviously bore no relation to the magical power it possessed. She could easily imagine those fingers being snapped at Vernon or Dudley if they treated the boy cruelly. It was harder to imagine what the creature's magic would do to the men in her life. It took no imagination whatsoever to understand this little creature was totally devoted to her nephew and his girlfriend. Dobby would react if either was threatened, though he would apparently need to be quick to beat Harry to the task if Hermione was in danger.

Thinking of her nephew's words spoken back before Christmas, when Dudley had tried to intimidate Hermione, it would now seem they'd had a lucky escape. Going anywhere near the girl with bad intentions was certainly something Vernon and Dudley would have to avoid.

Petunia didn't sleep much that night, and then thought a cruel joke was being played on her when invited to touch an old boot next morning. Travelling from Crawley to the Scottish Highlands in a matter of seconds was something Petunia would never forget. She could hardly forget the giant of a man who was waiting to greet them when they arrived either. The last time they met, this brute had given her Dudley a tail.

Her first sight of the castle though was everything she had imagined - and more. Petunia had found herself becoming overawed by the strange sights continually assaulting her senses, that stopped abruptly when her nephew crashed into her in that hall. She looked down and saw her baby sister's eyes looking back up at her, almost begging to be comforted. Petunia couldn't help it, her arms just closed around Harry.

-oOoOo-

Hermione was again proven right. While Hufflepuff were a good team, and playing a great match - Gryffindor were in the process of forging a great team. Gryffindor were also a team currently inspired to reach beyond their best. The twins had just discovered their youngest brother was going to pull through after drinking deadly poison. They played today with a vim and verve that unbelievably eclipsed their usual enthusiasm. Harry however was simply sensational.

The reason for Harry's phenomenal flying was currently sitting in the stands, wedged between Hermione and Emma. While the only time Emma's gaze left Harry was when she couldn't help fearfully covering her eyes with her hands, Petunia was trying to absorb the entire experience. Her biggest problem would be not being able to tell anyone, other than Vernon and Dudley, what she had seen.

As her dad was on his feet, cheering and applauding another Gryffindor goal, Hermione took the opportunity to speak with Petunia.

"I'd like to thank you for coming today. You can clearly see it means the world to Harry."

This girl confused Petunia. She decided just to air that confusion. "I understand you were Harry's girlfriend before he lost his memory. Your mum also said Harry had talked to you about his time living at Privet Drive…"

Shrugging her shoulders, Hermione told Petunia what she needed to know. "You're Harry's family. One day you'll be my family too. We each have a choice to make about just how close that family will be. I know what Harry wants, and I'll try my damnedest to see he gets it."

Seeing the confusion, Hermione explained further. "When Harry came around on Halloween, he didn't know where he was - or who any of the people around us were. All he remembered was me. We'd been growing close before that night. After Halloween, we were inseparable. Harry thinks of you as his mother, and Dudley as his brother. When I mentioned he hadn't said that before injuring his head, he said something that really made me stop and think…"

She actually had to stop for a moment again as the stadium erupted when Gryffindor scored yet another goal. Petunia though was now more interested in hearing what this girl had to say than watching the match.

"Harry asked if someone telling me all the memories I had of my parents were wrong would change the way I felt about them. I love my mum and dad very much so I had to say no. That's the position Harry finds himself in. He loves you very much, and our Christmas visit to Privet Drive broke his heart. The other night Harry had to do something terrible. Deep inside he knows he did the right thing, he needed to hear that though from someone he loves. I've been helping him cope but, just by turning up here today, you've helped him more."

The yells of the crowd again interrupted their discussion as Cedric went into a dive. Harry was soon right beside him with both seekers pulling out at the very last second, almost brushing against the grass on the pitch. Everyone in the stadium already knew what Lee was only now announcing. Cedric had attempted a fake and Harry had covered it - without being fooled. They were laughing and high-fived each other before both seekers got themselves back into the game. Hermione had seen the camera flashes from the crowd and was thankful that, once again, Dumbledore had barred the press from speaking to the players - especially Harry. When his search pattern saw him flying right alongside where they were sitting, the cheers for Harry from the Gryffindors was deafening.

"I can't believe that's the same boy we took to King's Cross back in September..."

Smiling at Petunia, Hermione confessed her parents had said almost exactly the same thing to her when they arrived home for Christmas. "Coming to Hogwarts from a non magical home puts you at a hellish disadvantage when you first enter the castle. Things that others take for granted, we haven't a clue about. It really is a different world and you have to adapt fast or sink. Both of us almost sank..."

Although this was a young girl speaking, the hurt in her words belied those years. "That Halloween, something was said to me that I thought was the final straw. I was sitting in a girls' bathroom, crying my eyes out, when a ten foot tall troll decided to wreck the place. I was trapped in a corner as it closed in on me, only for Harry to come bursting in and jump on it as a distraction. Harry now being in deadly danger forced me get up and take action. I used my magic and forced the troll's own club to knock it out, but I didn't manage to do all that before Harry got injured."

Petunia had lost all interest in the match now, she was far more concerned with what Hermione was going to say next. "All that we had learned in those two hard months of being dropped into an alien culture, Harry had now forgotten. He didn't even know he was a wizard. Harry wanted to go home, go back to his family. He only stayed because of me. The school, hell - even the government, are now bending over backwards to keep Harry at Hogwarts. We know this and are angling for changes to be made, changes like you and my parents being here today. Three muggles at a Hogwarts quidditch match, that has never happened before..."

It was a thoughtful Petunia who was now joining the dots, not forgetting to add the one where Hermione had earlier said they were almost certain to meet the magical equivalent of the Prime Minister today.

"When Lily came home from Hogwarts, she had changed so much. Looking around today, I can now understand some of the reasons for those changes. As a young teenage girl, I just saw something taking my sister away from me - and I was so angry at Lily for letting it happen. We were once very close you know. So close that, even although magic terrified me, I wrote to Dumbledore and asked if I could attend Hogwarts too. I didn't want to be parted from Lily for ten months every year. Not only was I told I wasn't wanted, they took my baby sister away from me too. If I could have spent the odd weekend here, saw some of what Lily was doing, met her friends, shared more common ground we could talk about when she was home - who knows what might have happened?"

What happened next was the stadium erupting as Harry shot up and snatched the snitch from just above Oliver's goals. This meant his captain was the first person to tackle Harry in celebration, though the other five were close behind.

Hermione was on her feet too, applauding like mad. Harry broke from the airborne scrum of Gryffindor players and flew toward her. After a congratulatory kiss, Harry turned to the person next to her.

"Aunt Petunia, I would like you to have this - as a memento of your visit."

She could see the thing flapping in his hand. It was obviously magical and Petunia was already beginning to back away. "Oh, I couldn't... Is that..."

Seeing the change come over Petunia, Hermione helped her reach the decision that would delight Harry. "Yes, that's a GOLDEN snitch. Harry catching it won the cup for Gryffindor. I keep mine in a special box, I'll make you a copy of my box for yours when we get back to our rooms."

With trembling hands, Petunia wrapped her fingers around the walnut size golden ball, trying not to notice the flapping silver wings.

"Gotta go, we've a cup to collect." Wearing a massive smile, Harry flew back down to rejoin his teammates.

Hermione advised Petunia to put the snitch in her bag for now, least it fly away. It was soon safely ensconced in her favourite designer handbag, with the thought that selling this snitch could probably raise enough money to buy another six bags like this one.

With even the Hufflepuffs applauding the Gryffindor captain being presented with the cup, it had turned into a fabulous final for all the visitors to see. The reception after the match should be fun but Hermione already knew they would be giving the after match party in Gryffindor tower a miss. Both she and Harry would want to spend as much time with their visitors as possible.

-oOoOo-

Petunia was really not comfortable attending the reception held after the match but both Granger ladies promised to stick close. This in turn gave Petunia a front row seat for the events that unfolded during the get-together.

Arthur Weasley had made his way to Hogwarts, again bringing Ginny along too, but this time there was no questioning of Dan and Emma. Until Harry arrived, his main focus of attention was Hermione.

"I really can't put our family's gratitude into words. Without yours and Harry's interventions, it would have been a coin toss which killed Ron first - the poison he drank or you-know-who. Either way, he wasn't coming out of there alive..."

Instead of answering Arthur, Hermione was far more concerned about his daughter. Ginny had tears streaming down her cheeks so Hermione placed a comforting arm around her shoulder. This was the final straw for the littlest Weasley, she broke into sobs while clinging to the older witch.

Ginny's emotional breakdown was missed by most in the room since that was the same moment both quidditch teams arrived. Harry and the twins though had certainly noticed. Shaking hands with those that couldn't be avoided, they quickly made their way over to their families. It was Arthur who offered an explanation to the group, his own fragile emotional state clear for everyone to see.

"She's been really strong over the last few days. Hearing the news that Ron is going to recover has affected all of us. Molly wouldn't leave Ron's bedside, she hasn't left it since we got to St Mungo's. Harry, I need to thank you too for what you did..."

He found himself being interrupted by a scoffing Fred. "Good luck with that, Dad."

"Yeah. Our Harry here tried to apologise to us - for not getting to Ron quicker."

It was Ginny who then managed to speak between her sobs. "But Ron was the one who tried to get you chucked out of Gryffindor. Why would you fight you-know-who to save him?"

"Because it was the right thing to do - and that's who my Harry is." With one arm still holding Ginny, Hermione's free arm snaked around Harry's waist as the couple shared a gentle kiss.

The inclusion of Harry to this group had greatly increased people's interest in it, something the politician in Cornelius was naturally aware of. He chose this as his moment to act, understanding that soon everyone in the room would be focused on them. With Amelia at his side, the Minister of Magic made his presence known.

"Miss Granger is of course correct. What she omitted to mention however is that she was at his side for the entire adventure, making contributions to the rescue mission that were every bit as vital. That is why the Ministry are going to award each of you Orders of Merlin. This still needs to be ratified by the Wizengamot but I'm hoping to make both of them First Class."

Hermione was for once rendered speechless, it was left to Harry to raise their objections. "Thank you for the offer, Minister, but neither Hermione nor I deserve such an honour."

This time it was Amelia who answered Harry's objection as the crowd around the group grew.

"I couldn't disagree more. You both knew Voldemort was down there, and that help was on the way, yet neither of you hesitated when four of your classmates were in deadly danger. Had you not done so, at least two could have died - and we would have been left facing Voldemort."

Cornelius was nodding in agreement. "You went down there not looking for glory but to rescue classmates. Even after rescuing three of them, and knowing the Dark Lord was through that final door, you still pushed ahead to save the fourth. As Arthur's youngest just pointed out, this boy was not your friend - but still you went ahead. While watching the situation unfold from under an invisibility cloak, both you and your intended left that safety to face a Dark Lord whose very name terrifies almost everyone in this room. By any definition I've ever heard of, both your actions that night are steeped in heroism - heroism that deserves to be acknowledged by a very grateful country."

Augusta Longbottom may have started the applause but it was soon taken up by almost everyone in the room. Only three shocked muggles and their pair of charges weren't caught up in the enthusiasm of this announcement. The twins were busy shaking both their hands and Ginny had stopped crying, though her blush at having kissed Harry on the cheek might never fade.

Hermione was left trying to explain the situation to the three muggle parents, and also to some extent Harry. "An Order of Merlin, First Class, is the highest award for bravery in magical society. The only thing I can think of to compare it with is a solider receiving the Victoria Cross."

This did the trick as Emma and Dan soon had both of them wrapped up in proud hugs. Petunia just stood there, not knowing the shocks weren't over yet.

Turning to Albus, Cornelius paid the headmaster the courtesy of asking for something he knew would instantly be granted. Everyone in that room wanted Harry Potter to stay in Britain, and would aid the Minister's efforts in every way possible. Cornelius really wanted to tear strips off Albus for this fiasco but, with Voldemort's attempted return, the country needed Dumbledore and Potter at Hogwarts. He and Amelia however would be having private words with the headmaster later.

"Headmaster, I have no wish to intrude on Hogwarts' traditional leaving feast. I wondered if we could hold the ceremony here next weekend? I'm assuming of course you would make arrangements for the young people in question to have their families present for the ceremony?"

While Dumbledore was assuring everyone that would happen, and offering his congratulations to the couple, Hermione's mind slipped back into gear. Knowing all that Harry had achieved last time around in his four years at Hogwarts, and the most he'd ever been rewarded with was some house points, she had initially struggled to accept this new reality. Having now sussed what was really behind this move, Hermione chose this moment to push for more. With Fudge, Dumbledore, Bones, McGonagall and Longbottom present, between them these people actually held the power to make it all happen. After all, they wouldn't be asking for much.

"Thank you, Minister. Both for these awards and thinking of our families. When a muggle born, or muggle raised like Harry, receives a Hogwarts letter, it's so much more than a simple invitation to attend this prestigious school. We find ourselves being immersed in this whole other culture. Madam Longbottom's lessons have helped immensely with this adjustment but it's almost as if we're expected to give up our own culture - in some cases our families - to be accepted into the magical community."

If Hermione was going to climb on her soapbox, Harry was going to give his intended all the backing he could. Standing there with his arm around her told everyone he agreed with her views too as Hermione started asking some questions they both wanted answered.

"Our families have benefited greatly from visiting Hogwarts, they will now understand far more of what we're talking about when we're home. Surely it shouldn't be too difficult to arrange a visit for a muggle born's family when they're in first year? In some cases this policy even splits siblings, one going to Hogwarts while the other stays home - through no fault of their own."

All the magical people gathered around Hermione knew she was talking about Harry's mother and aunt, actually earning Hermione a smile from Petunia. While her suggestion had left those it was directed at dumbfounded, Hermione threw in another one.

"As I said earlier, Madam Longbottom's lessons have been brilliant for helping us adjust. That's only helping solve one side of the problem though. Where are the lessons on our culture for the people who are just as clueless about us as we are them?"

Being the first to see the sense behind that, thanks to her weekly classes here, Augusta pointed out the problem that was immediately obvious to her. "While I'm delighted you're enjoying my lessons, and agree your idea is a very good one, I just don't know where we would find someone who could teach that side of things."

Hermione shifted her gaze to the three muggles standing there, and Albus was instantly all over her implied offer.

"I hate to disagree, Augusta. Those aren't good suggestions - they are quite simply brilliant! Minerva, between both of us I'm sure we could organise for the immediate families of our next intake of muggle borns to visit Hogwarts. The new lessons for first years would have to be taken to the school board for approval. That relatives of Harry Potter and his betrothed, two Orders of Merlin recipients, would volunteer to aid with teaching the muggle side of this proposal I'm certain would help see those lessons in place for next term."

Involving these people in Hogwarts in any capacity greatly reduced the likelihood of Harry and Hermione leaving. Having them teaching, even on a very part time basis would be a real coup.

When Hermione looked pleadingly at her mother, Emma caved. While she and Dan had also figured out just what was going on here, there were hidden benefits for them to be considered too. Any teaching commitments they undertook at Hogwarts would come with the added bonus of being able to visit Hermione and Harry. Having only letters as a means of communication with their daughter between September and Christmas had been torturous for the really close Granger family. Here was a chance to schedule regular visits.

"We were going to have discussions today about Hermione, Harry and Neville spending part of their summer together - both at our house and Augusta's. That should give us a much better idea what actual subjects would need to be included in any lesson..."

This had Augusta interrupting, delighted at this turn of events. "I would like to extend that invitation to both Harry and Hermione's families. Minerva, you would be a welcome guest too. Between all of us, I'm sure we could come up with some sort of undertaking that will not only begin to improve things at Hogwarts, but will have far wider implications. I have to admit, I'm learning as much from my weekly lessons as I'm teaching - and enjoying those lessons as much as the children appear to."

It was a very rare occasion when everyone walked away from a situation thinking they had gotten what they wanted but, as Cornelius once more shook the young couple's hands in congratulation, only the press being present to capture - and publicise - the moment could have made today any better. Since that photo opportunity would certainly be fulfilled next weekend, the Minister of Magic was ecstatic at just how well things had gone today.

-oOoOo-

Amelia asked for a quiet word with Harry, Hermione of course was at his side. "I don't know if you're aware of this, Harry, but Sirius Black is your godfather. He's desperate to see you, and says he's the person your parents asked to look after you - should anything happen to them."

Thinking for a moment, Harry wasn't prepared to make a serious commitment like that to a person he'd never met. "We're meeting with my aunt, Hermione's parents and Neville's gran to sort out our arrangements for the summer. I'm sure we could have some time in there for us to get to know my godfather. Do you think Sirius will be able to make it here next week?"

This saw a wide grin appear on Amelia's features. "His godson is being presented with an Order of Merlin, I couldn't keep him away even if I wanted to. You were the first person he asked about in Azkaban, Sirius was so proud you used that special map to catch Pettigrew. Although not publicised as such, seeing justice done for your parents' betrayer is also part of your Order of Merlin recommendations."

Now that was something both of them could accept.

Petunia was having a very hard time accepting all of this. Not only was she invited to return to Hogwarts next weekend, Vernon and Dudley were unbelievably invited too. After all the trouble Petunia had convincing them that she should visit this week, it was going to be really difficult getting their agreement for her to return again next weekend. Both of them coming too was simply a non starter.

If Vernon and Dudley being invited was unbelievable, the fact that she, Petunia Dursley, was being given an opportunity to teach young witches and wizards about being normal was totally blowing her mind. So much so, she headed off to bed early with a headache. That headache was mainly caused by her trying to figure out what the hell she was going to tell her husband and son?

Dobby then joined his family, erecting privacy wards as he did so. Dan leaned back in his chair, kicking his shoes off and letting out a sigh of relief. "Well, it's been quite the day."

They all giggled at his understatement, though Emma claimed it had been quite a couple of days.

"Mum, dad, thanks for being so accepting of this..."

"...and thanks for getting my aunt here. I don't know how you managed it, but I think you both deserve medals for that."

"Your aunt and I have been meeting in London for afternoon tea. I have been gradually wearing down her resistance to magic. Today was a massive step for her, it's not surprising Petunia is a bit overwhelmed with today's events. I'm just hoping with everything extra that happened, it wasn't a step too far - too soon. I certainly don't have any worries about you and Hermione staying there in August now. Whether she'll take any of the other offers that landed in her lap today is anyone's guess."

"With these two now being recognised for their bravery, and having met their secret weapon, they would be nuts to start anything. Harry says the magicals are nuts, I doubt the Dursleys would like to be compared to them."

While her dad's comment had Hermione giggling, Harry noticed Dobby was scowling in the direction of his Aunt Petunia's room.

"We really will be fine, Dobby. I don't know if Dumbledore will though when he finds his precious stone missing."

This saw Hermione hug the little guy. "All those traps and our Dobby had the stone out that mirror in twenty seconds flat. If that moron Weasley hadn't led the rest of them down there we would have sat up here all night."

"Yeah, pissing ourselves laughing at Voldemort trying to get something that wasn't there. Dobby had swiped the stone the day before."

Both Dan and Emma had known what their original plan had been, though one thing still puzzled her father. "I can't work out why, if you had the stone, Voldemort still thought it was in the mirror?"

Knowing they were soon going to have to repeat this conversation with the headmaster, and return his friend's stone, Hermione answered her father's question. "The mirror shows you your heart's greatest desire. For both Quirrell and Voldemort, that was getting their hands on that stone. There was no need to put the stone in the mirror in the first place. Dumbledore could simply have hid it in his sock drawer, the mirror itself would have done the rest."

"I told you wizards are nuts. The more powerful they are, the nuttier they seem to be..."

Hermione leaning in and kissing Harry on the cheek for that put a smile back on Dobby's face. He loved his family and would protect them from anyone, be they named Dumbledore or Dursley.

Chapter 16 - A Black Day

The issue of the Prophet with Harry Potter flying across the front cover, wearing Gryffindor quidditch robes, did not aid the digestion of those sitting at the Malfoy breakfast table. It wasn't so much the picture that upset the Malfoys' stomachs, rather the article gleefully proclaiming Potter, and his intended, were to be honoured by the Ministry of Magic. This coming the day after the same newspaper claimed that Potter banished the Dark Lord once more had Lucius Malfoy cursing up a storm.

"They're giving Potter and his little mudblood Orders of Merlin - unbelievable!. Now we discover the reason for all the lies printed yesterday. This must be something Dumbledore's cooked up, Fudge certainly doesn't have the brains for a scheme like this. They must be really desperate to keep the brat in Britain."

Ever since the night she'd pulled her wand on her husband, Cissi was having to be very careful when questioning Lucius' judgement. Only her promising to help with any scheme against Potter redirected Lucius' anger that night. She was left having to phrase any question in the politest terms possible.

"Do you think they made the entire Quirrell incident up?"

"Oh I certainly believe Quirrell is dead, Potter might even have had a hand in causing his death. If he did, can't you just see Dumbledore rushing to cover for his golden boy. What better cover than to say Quirrell was being possessed by our Lord? Instead of being prosecuted by the Ministry, those bloody fools are falling over themselves in their haste to reward the brat. If our master had returned, he would have made contact with me. Severus was in the castle with Quirrell for a couple of months too. Why wouldn't our Master make contact with him?"

Cissi couldn't argue with any of that. Watching the Prophet's picture of Potter though gave her an idea. She didn't want her family going anywhere near Potter looking for retribution. Maybe there was a way they could have some revenge, while avoiding the promised outcome that absolutely terrified her.

"Potter won the Quidditch cup for two reasons. The Slytherin team was disbanded and the boy had the fastest broom in Hogwarts. With Slytherin looking for an entire new team next year, what if Draco had a better broom than Potter? He'd be sure to make the team, then our son could really show this upstart who's the better wizard."

"That's a good idea, one that needs some improvement though. I have contacts at Nimbus, contacts who could get me a full set of new brooms at cost price. A team of Slytherin purebloods once more putting everyone in their place will see the proper order restored at Hogwarts. That blood traitor Weasley will use all this positive publicity for the mudblood to help push through that muggle protection bill of his, I might have to do something rather drastic about that too…"

Cissi didn't care about any Weasleys. Harming one of those multitude of redheads wouldn't see Draco's detached head appearing in their manor. Draco and Slytherin publicly beating Potter at quidditch though was a different matter. That was a modicum of revenge, without incurring any retribution penalties. Draco would be delighted with a new broom while watching Potter being defeated by their son would satisfy Lucius - for now. The Malfoys could all live with that.

As the breakfast dishes disappeared, neither Malfoy bothered to look in their elf's direction. If they had, they would have noticed something rather unusual. Darla was actually smiling, tonight she would have news to tell Dobby.

-oOoOo-

Petunia left Hogwarts with the Grangers after lunch, saying goodbye to a young couple who clearly hoped to see her again next weekend. Arriving by portkey in the Grangers' lounge, Petunia was then asked if she wanted Dobby to take her home. That was why, fifteen minutes after being in the Scottish Highlands, she was sitting in her own kitchen drinking a relaxing cup of tea.

She heard the car in the driveway before the front door was unlocked.

"Now remember, Dudley, we had a salad... Pet, when did you get home? I thought I was coming to pick you up?"

"I was dropped off."

"How was your weekend with the freaks, mum?"

Visibly cringing at how her son phrased that question, Petunia began what she knew would be a hard sell.

"The Grangers are really lovely people - with an absolutely beautiful house. Five bedrooms and sitting in its own grounds, with a pool in the back garden…"

"Those poor people, having all that and they end up with a freak for a daughter. Then again, your parents were the same…"

"…and like my parents, they love their daughter too - even though she's a witch. They're very fond of Harry as well. They'll be spending most of the summer together."

"Do we still need to take him?"

"Vernon, that's simply non negotiable. Harry needs to stay here, or should I say we need him to stay here..."

This news didn't sit well with her son. "Why do we need the freak staying here? We're better off without him. No one around here even mentions he's gone..."

Taking a good look at the two men in her life, Petunia realised she needed to be brutal here. "The madman who murdered hundreds of people, including Harry's parents - my sister, isn't really dead. If him and his followers ever get together again, we Dursleys would be in deadly danger. These followers have already attacked the Grangers' home..."

"What? They would be looking for Potter. That seems like an even better reason not to have him back here."

The last thing Petunia needed was for Vernon to dig his heels in over this. "The Grangers' house was protected by magical shields, and suffered no damage whatsoever. They were whisked away to safety at the first hint of danger and the magical police were at their house within minutes too. Our house is already covered by shields that are actually stronger than those protecting the Grangers. For those shields to work however, Harry needs to live here for at least ten days a year - and think of this house as his home."

Opening her bag, she placed a copy of today's Daily Prophet on their table. Both Vernon and Dudley stared stupefiedly at a moving picture of Harry flying across the front page.

"This evil wizard was possessing one of the professors at their school. Somehow Harry discovered this and sent for their police. Before they could arrive however, Harry and Hermione were forced to act. They saved four other students and solved the problem before the police got there."

"If this wizard is so evil, how did the boy solve the problem?"

Deciding to be blunt, Petunia laid it out for Vernon. "Harry killed him."

That statement was met with total silence. Using that silence, Petunia explained her last remark. "The possessed professor was using his magic to attack Hermione. Harry managed to take the wizard's wand but he still tried to attack the girl. At that, Harry jumped on him and started punching the wizard in the face. For some reason, Harry's punches really hurt the wizard - eventually killing him. Harry and Hermione are to be awarded their top medals for bravery. I was there when their Prime Minister told them about these medals, and I'm invited back next weekend for the awards ceremony."

His eyes moving between the magical newspaper and his wife, Vernon just didn't know what to say. Dudley however was focused on the moving picture.

"Did Potter really fly on a broom?"

Reaching into her bag again, Petunia brought out the box Hermione had made for her. "Their sport is played on brooms, and looked incredibly dangerous. Emma spent about half of the match with her hands covering her eyes, frightened Harry would get hurt. I didn't really understand what was happening but Harry catching this won the match and cup for his team."

Opening the lid of the box, the golden snitch was flapping its wings while the fastening ensured it couldn't fly away. Vernon's initial surge of anger at this clearly magical object being in his house was soon swamped by a much stronger base emotion - greed.

"Is that..."

"The centre is made of gold, while the wings are silver. Harry presented me with it after the match, to say thank you for coming."

"It must be worth quite a bit, even just for the precious metals it's made from..."

"Vernon, it would seem the Potters are a wealthy family - a very wealthy family - and Harry's the last of the Potters."

"No wonder these Grangers are so keen to take the boy..."

"That has nothing to do with Emma and Dan's decision, both clearly dote on Harry. There is also now a godfather in the picture. He was slung in prison, apparently for something he didn't do. Guess who discovered the real criminal, and was instrumental in getting his godfather free? Oh, and the godfather's rich too."

Vernon was struggling to believe what his wife was saying here, but the evidence on the table corroborated everything she claimed to be true. "I can't believe this is the same freak who used to live in our cupboard…"

"He's not." An embarrassed Petunia then had to explain her outburst to her family. "Harry was injured saving Hermione back at Halloween. It was a head injury and it has affected all of his memories. He doesn't remember anything about staying in the cupboard, Harry thinks we treated him exactly the same as Dudley. Hermione knows though, because Harry had told her before his accident. He has the Grangers, who are more than willing to take him in permanently, and now a godfather who wants to do the same. The only thing stopping that happening is Harry's belief we are his family. If that belief goes, then so will he. This family would then be left defenceless - I won't have that."

It was then the expected temper tantrum from Dudley made an appearance.

"Why should we do that? Potter's getting everything here. What do I get?"

Petunia was out her chair and soon had her son in her arms. Running her fingers through his hair to sooth Dudley, she kissed his forehead before speaking.

"I know exactly how you feel, Diddums. My baby sister got to go off and do all these wonderful things, and I couldn't. She would come home and talk about flying on a broom, seeing a unicorn, and I would get so jealous. It's only after seeing it for myself I now understand. I'm bursting to tell everyone what I saw, but can't. I can only tell you and your dad, just like Lily could only tell me. It's not fair, and that's why Harry and Hermione are trying to change things. Him being on the front of their newspaper means people will listen to their ideas."

"Does that mean I can go with you next weekend?"

Hearing the hope in Dudley's voice was pushing Petunia into areas she never even dreamed she'd venture. That was before she visited Hogwarts however, and had been treated with respect while she was there.

"Both you and your father are certainly invited, but I don't think either of you are ready for that experience yet." Dudley was set to explode when Petunia instantly changed his mood.

"The first person I met was that great hairy wizard who visited us that night…"

Dudley's hands immediately shot to cover his bottom, right where he'd had to have that tail surgically removed. Petunia again kissed her son's forehead before continuing.

"I told you Harry's memories are all messed up, he couldn't remember that happening. He and Hermione were very angry with the big wizard, told him he could end up on prison for that. That wizard apologised to me, and then stayed out of our way for the rest of the weekend. I think we should wait until Harry and Hermione have stayed here, then see if you still want to visit Hogwarts."

"I could really go?"

"These magical people know even less about us than we do about them. Harry and Hermione are trying to change that. Starting next term, normal families of magical children will be able to visit. There will also be lessons to teach them about normal people. Emma and Dan will be teaching that, purely part time of course. I can do some teaching too, if I want…"

She left that last part hanging, waiting to see what kind of response she got. Vernon finally gave her one. "I'm fine with you returning to this place next weekend, it's clearly important." Vernon was gesturing at the newspaper though still managed to catch Dudley's eye and wink - they would be eating out again for Dudley's second weekend home from school. There were some cakes on that sweet trolly that they simply didn't have the room left today to do justice.

"I can see we really have no choice but to let them stay with us for part of the summer, but I won't put up with any funny business. If I see any, then they're gone. After their visit, we'll see what happens."

This was probably more than Petunia could have hoped for. "The Grangers will be bringing them here, the neighbours won't notice a thing. Emma and Dan really are our kind of people, Vernon. If they can accept this, perhaps we can too."

She ruffled Dudley's hair one last time before reaching into her bag for the final surprise. "Harry wanted to apologise for what happened to Dudley, he really was very upset about it. He said all magicals are nuts, and muttered something about trying to raise a dragon in a wooden house. He didn't want us to be out of pocket, after having to pay a couple of thousand pounds for Dudley's surgery, so gave me this..."

Rather tentatively, Vernon took the bulging envelope from his wife. After opening it, his eyebrows got higher and higher. Eventually, Dudley couldn't stand it anymore.

"What's in the envelope, Dad?"

"Money."

"Cool - how much?"

Letting out a low whistle after finishing counting, Vernon gave Dudley the total. "About five thousand pounds..."

"He asked a magical friend to pop down to London and get it for him, I had no idea how much was in the envelope though. That's over twice what it cost for Dudley's surgery..."

Already doing the sums in his head, Vernon nodded to Petunia before reaching a decision. "I didn't know if we would be able to afford a holiday this year, we can now. Where do we want to go?"

This had the Dursley household very excited, and Petunia was left thinking that things couldn't have gone much better. She had always known Lily was smarter than her, but Petunia wasn't by any means stupid. Starting with that first invitation to afternoon tea with Emma, the advantages of her family accepting magic - and Harry - had been emphasised at every opportunity. Today, Vernon and Dudley were getting their first real taste of those advantages.

The very first time Petunia had met Emma for tea, she had laboured the point that Harry and Hermione staying here for part of the summer would be beneficial to the Dursley family. Petunia now knew that to be true, her family could and would benefit from accepting both her nephew and his magic. Harry was the one with options now, and the Dursleys would have to welcome the young couple as a family.

Today, for the first time, she thought they might actually have a chance of achieving that. Considering the alternative left them open to attack by murdering magical madmen, Petunia would do her damnedest to see that they did.

-oOoOo-

After the poison in Ron's body had been neutralised, it was simply a matter of observation before he was allowed home. Sunday therefor saw him sitting in the Burrow's living room with a glass of pumpkin juice in his hand. He'd been pampered by everyone since regaining consciousness, Ron had no idea that situation was about to come to an abrupt end.

When his mum, dad and sister sat down too, Ron still didn't spot the danger signs. Even after his father began asking questions, Ron didn't think he'd be in any trouble. After all, he'd almost died. That should see the pampering continue for at least the rest of the summer.

"Ron, why did you go into that room? Dumbledore himself had warned everyone it was very dangerous to do so, and students should not go anywhere near it?"

"I figured out it was some sort of test, to see if anyone was brave enough to take it on. We all needed to show how brave we were to be accepted back into Gryffindor. I guessed there would be some kind of treasure at the end of the tests too, and I must have been right. Why else would you-know-who be after it?"

"If there was a Hogwarts house for the stupid, you'd already be a prefect…"

Her father's glance in Ginny's direction silenced her, before he asked Ron another question. "What happened as you confronted the traps?"

"There was already music playing, so the three-headed dog was sleeping. We slipped past and jumped down the trapdoor. It was pitch black down there and then I felt something trying to strangle me. Seamus panicked and nearly roasted all of us, the plant actually threw him away."

Ron was trying to give the impression that, had Seamus not panicked, he would have somehow saved the day. None of his current audience were buying into that.

"Why did you leave an injured classmate lying there?"

"The music playing beside the three headed dog meant someone else was already down there. Dad, we couldn't let some one else beat us to the treasure, we had to push on..."

"...and the boy you sacrificed at the chess match?"

"It would have taken too long for all of us to go on. Sometimes, in chess, you need to sacrifice pieces to win the match."

Arthur exploded at that. "This was not a game, Ron. The Finnigan boy almost died, while the other one received a serious concussion."

"Hey, I almost died too, you know. I was the one facing you-know-who, and doing fine until Potter showed up - trying to hog all the glory."

Ginny had seen for herself that neither Harry nor Hermione were interested in glory, she couldn't let that last comment pass. "You nearly died because you Ignored Professor Dumbledore's orders. You then drank unknown potions, even after being warned some of them were poisons. Only in Ronald Weasley's world does pissing your robes in fear count as doing fine. You could have gotten six people killed…"

Pulling his upset daughter into a hug, Arthur was at a loss over what to do with his son. Once again, Ron didn't think he'd done anything wrong. "I was in Hogwarts yesterday and spoke with the Headmaster and Professor McGonagall. You will not be returning to Hogwarts this term, and there will be a meeting shortly to decide if you'll be returning at all."

Ron was ready to object but the stern stare from his father silenced him.

"While all your exam results aren't in yet, both said you were failing their classes..."

It had been hard for Molly to do as her husband had requested and let him deal with this matter. Hearing that though set her off. "How can you possibly fail a class that's being taught by Albus Dumbledore? Don't you realise how lucky you are?"

"Hey, he's only teaching the class because Potter's in it..."

"Ronald, you will go to your room and stay there until called for." Arthur then picked up today's Prophet and shoved it at his son. "If you want something to read, this will do."

The headline was enough for Ron's temper to let go. "They're giving Potter and Granger an Order of Merlin? What do I get? I was down there too..."

"They were there purely to rescue some really stupid children who were in way over their heads. I also heard them try to refuse these awards, thinking they didn't deserve them. The only person who went down there looking for glory was you. That you seemed prepared to sacrifice your classmates to get it sickens more people than just me. You ask what do you get out of this, I fear you're going to get exactly what you deserve. At the moment your choices would appear to be either getting expelled from Hogwarts, or being resorted and repeating first year - a first year you would seem to have already both socially and academically failed."

A thoroughly deflated Ron slowly made his way up the stairs. The newspaper clutched in his hands and Ginny's groan of 'I hope he's not in the same classes as me' ringing in his ears.

-oOoOo-

That same edition of the Prophet was clutched in another pair of hands. Sirius would walk up and down his hospital room for a few minutes before sitting back down to read parts of it over again. While overjoyed at the information he was reading about his godson, it actually threw up a whole new set of questions - and he hadn't gotten answers to his old ones yet.

When his visitor entered, Sirius practically pounced on her. "Ami - did you see Harry? Did you ask him about living with me? What did he say?"

"Slow down, Sirius. You seem to be feeling better…"

"There's no way I won't be at this award ceremony…"

She just smiled at him. "Sirius, I already told Harry that. He's really looking forward to meeting you. Now sit, and we can discuss what was said."

This got Sirius sitting, but right on the edge of his seat.

"Harry was there with his family…"

"Family? Harry doesn't have any family."

"His aunt was there, Lily's sister…"

"Lily's sister was at Hogwarts? Who gave Harry to her? He was supposed to come to me…"

"Sirius, you need to calm down - otherwise the healers will keep you here longer. This is also going to take all bloody day if you don't stop interrupting. Let me tell you what I know, then we can try answering those questions. Okay?"

After Sirius nodded, Amelia continued. "Harry's Aunt was there, so too were the Grangers - his intended's muggle parents. They're nice people, Sirius, and have really accepted Harry into their family. Harry and Hermione are spearheading changes that will allow other muggle families to visit Hogwarts as well, they really are quite a couple. They're also planning to spend some time staying with their best friend, Neville Longbottom, over the summer."

"Frank and Alice's boy?" Amelia's nod had Sirius smiling. Her next comment just amplified the intensity of that smile.

"In amongst all that, Harry wants to be able to spend some time with his godfather. You had better plan on Hermione being there too though, that pair are pretty much inseparable."

"She'll be more than welcome. Seeing that picture of Harry in his quidditch uniform - he looks so much like a mini James. Read the story however and you can tell there's a lot of his mother in him."

"Taking their ages into consideration, you would think they were too young to be together. Then you spend some time with the couple and discover they're very serious about each other. I've been impressed by both since our first meeting. Hermione certainly looks nothing like Lily Potter, sometimes though it feels like you're talking to her and James. It really would be a terrible shame to lose them both…"

There was no way Sirius wasn't going to interrupt that. "Excuse me, Amelia. Before you say anymore, I'm going to need you to explain that last remark."

The fact he'd called her Amelia told the Head of the D.M.L.E. this was a serious Sirius she was facing here. She told him all about Harry's accident, the attack by Snape and what the consequences were. She also explained they had been livid about the attack on Hermione's home, and the fact they couldn't do anything about it.

"Both have been looking at other schools abroad, and Augusta Longbottom has even consented to her grandson joining his two best friends if they leave. As you can imagine, we're all desperate to keep the young couple in Britain. Hopefully your release will help with that too."

Sirius had listened to the tale with growing anger, he let some of that show in his answer. "My family disowned me, my ministry imprisoned me, my country condemned me as the evilest of wizards. If my godson decides to leave this country, my main aim will be ensuring his godfather is included in the group that's moving out. I'm sorry, Ami, my only concern in this matter is Harry's happiness. Hearing from you my godson told Voldemort to fuck off makes me prouder than I can say. That he then had the magic and moves to back those words up says to me he shouldn't be letting anyone control him - be that the ministry or any individuals."

"I'm sorry too, Sirius, if you though that wasn't what I also wanted. What I was alluding to is that all the major influences in Harry's life currently have little or no links to the magical community. All I was hoping for was that you, as his godfather, could show Harry some wizarding culture. Augusta is holding lessons every Sunday in Hogwarts to help the new first year muggle born adapt. They have proven so successful that they will become part of the Hogwarts curriculum in September. Harry and Hermione proposed there be lessons in muggle culture for witches and wizards too. Albus and Minerva are taking that to the school board later this week. With Augusta also a member, they have a very good chance of getting it passed."

"I can work with that, Ami. In fact, I can make a start right now. Tell me what the arrangements are for this ceremony?"

-oOoOo-

Another wizard was also pacing up and down because of that newspaper. Unlike Sirius though, he had considerably less room to work with. Having been detained in a ministry holding cell until the poisoned boy was released from St Mungo's, Severus was then returned to Azkaban.

True to his word, Dumbledore had seen those two suspended years of sentence abolished. Severus' actual sentence was also reduced, but not by nearly as much as he would have liked. Being given a release date of November the first felt more like a token gesture for all his hard work. It was a gesture though he had every intention of accepting.

In his present situation, every little helped. So leaving Azkaban almost two months sooner than Severus expected was a bonus. It was the newspaper in his hand that had thrown his emotions into turmoil.

The Dark Lord had been in Hogwarts, possessing Quirrell. That his Lord didn't make his presence known to Severus was exceedingly worrying. He'd found himself trapped between the two most powerful wizards in the country. With Dumbledore's betrayal, Severus was forced to consider what he would do when his time in Azkaban was finally up. The fact that the Dark Lord sat next to him in Hogwarts and didn't acknowledge he was there could mean there was only a painful death awaiting him from that direction.

That the Potter brat had once more defeated the Dark Lord, this time in front of witnesses, was bad. That he and his mudblood were being awarded Orders of Merlin really stuck in his craw. The real sickener though was Black being found innocent and freed. In that one issue of the newspaper, it was almost as if the fates were deliberately piling on the shit to a still imprisoned Severus Snape.

He had just over four months of his sentence left to serve, Severus reckoned he might need every day of that to figure out what his next move would be. Whatever it was, it would need to be on pastures new. Severus Snape was finished in Britain.

-oOoOo-

Harry and Hermione found themselves being woken by Dobby, ready to begin their last week at Hogwarts. Dobby also had a letter for them.

"Mister Flamel was very surprised to receive your letter and package. He asked Dobby to wait while he wrote this reply."

As Harry was opening the letter, Hermione was thanking Dobby for his outstanding work. "When Harry told me Professor Dumbledore had destroyed the stone, it just didn't seem right that he got to make that decision. Nicolas and his wife have been around far longer than Dumbledore. They should be more than capable of making their own minds up, rather than someone else doing it for them."

"Wow, not only is he thanking us for returning the stone, they want to meet us too."

Passing the letter over to a now speechless Hermione, Harry kissed her cheek before heading to the room he shared with Neville to get ready to face the day.

Hermione was still stunned at that news as the trio made their way down to breakfast. There the owls had another surprise for them. Recognising the handwriting at once, Hermione encouraged Harry to open the letter.

"It's from Sirius. He says we need formal robes for this award ceremony, and plans to take us out of school on Friday to get them. We're going to Diagon Alley, our families are invited too - and Sirius is paying for everything. He wants us to contact them…"

At that, Hedwig flew into the hall and landed beside them. "She's such a clever owl, aren't you girl." The snowy owl just puffed out her chest, as if Hermione's suggestion was a fact beyond questioning.

"I'll write a quick note to mum and dad for Hedwig to deliver, they'll phone your Aunt Petunia. They were planning to come here on Friday night anyway."

While Hermione was penning their letter, Neville found himself being dragged away by Parvati. This allowed a smiling Harry to say what he wanted to.

"You seem more excited about meeting Sirius than I am."

"Sirius Black is the only person I ever met who loved you as much as I do, though I have to say both my parents are now catching him up. Yes I'm excited to see him, as a free wizard with a fresh start too. Think of a grown up Fred and George, you'll love him. Scratch that - I don't think Sirius ever grew up. I just hope he can forgive me if Sirius ever finds out we left him in there..."

"We got him out as soon as we could, love. He's a free man too, something he never had before."

A smile and peck on the lips from Hermione had both of them ready to face the day. They found themselves being approached by the headmaster just as they were getting ready to leave.

"I see you received a letter from Sirius. He wrote to me too, and you both now have permission to leave school on Friday. I also received a letter from an old friend this morning, it solved a mystery I was intending to speak to you both about. Getting past all the traps to remove the item, without me knowing anything about it, is quite the achievement. Then tracking down Nicolas and returning that item is outstanding work. I don't suppose you would care to tell me how you managed it?"

A smiling Hermione gave him an answer. "We had a little help, who took twenty seconds to bring the stone to us…"

With that they headed off to their first class, leaving a stunned headmaster behind. They were barely through the doors though when Dumbledore broke into loud laughter.

Albus certainly considered himself an intelligent wizard, and had just deciphered Hermione's 'little help' clue. Having the stone brought to them indicated someone else was involved. The time scale she mentioned, along with the use of the word little, pointed Albus in the right direction. Only a house elf, one who'd been given unrestricted access to the castle, could hope to accomplish the task in anything like that timeframe. It would certainly pass his own test when faced with the mirror. The elf would want the stone, but never even think about using it for itself.

What had Albus laughing was the sheer simplicity and audacity of the plan, alongside the knowledge this was a method that wouldn't even have occurred to Voldemort. He treated all sentient magical beings an nothing more than vermin, creatures that were beneath him. He would never trust a house elf with something of this importance.

He also thought this was Hermione's way of showing Albus they trusted him, by releasing a little more information. Now having time to digest the problem both had found themselves faced with, he still couldn't come up with a better solution than the one they hoped to use. They, and the stone, were safe in Gryffindor tower while Amelia and her aurors would have tackled a possessed Quirrell. It was only Mister Weasley's untimely intervention that saw their plan needing last minute changes. Albus knew he and Minerva would have to deal with that unpleasant situation soon, but not before Saturday. He would have to wear his own award at this inauguration of the two newest members to this rather exclusive club. He would enjoy Saturday, and celebrate everyone coming out of there alive, before facing a trip to the Burrow.

-oOoOo-

A nervous Sirius was finding it increasingly difficult to sit still in Dumbledore's office. When the door opened and Minerva led the two students in, he was finally face to face with his godson. He could only stare, while fighting back the tears.

"Sirius Black, lost for words? I never thought I would see the day." Minerva's intervention cut right through the tension and had everyone smiling.

Now standing, Sirius didn't know whether to offer his godson a handshake or hug him. "Hello Harry, I'm your godfather..."

Solving his dilemma, Harry went straight for a hug. "Pleased to meet you, and delighted we could help get you out of prison." He then stood back. "Where are my manners. Sirius, I'd like you to meet my intended, Hermione Granger."

Seeing Sirius standing there with that sparkle back in his eyes, and looking clean, barbered and somewhat healthy, she couldn't contain herself. Hermione almost hugged the life out of the person she had really missed, overjoyed that this time Sirius wouldn't have to hide from anyone. Harry covered for her slight lapse in character though.

"Hermione said she was looking forward to meeting someone who loved me almost as much as she does."

This put a huge grin on Sirius' face. "Oh, I like her already Harry. You seem to have inherited the Potters' knack of picking the very best witch. I loved your mother, and your grandmother was one of the nicest, kindest people I've ever met."

Dumbledore and McGonagall chuckling at that gave both Sirius and Hermione time to wipe their eyes. Then it was down to business for the Marauder.

"Your aunt and Hermione's parents are meeting us at King's Cross. The Headmaster has made us a portkey that will drop us off on Platform nine and three quarters, and also bring the six of us back to Hogwarts later. Are we ready to spend the day together, and do some shopping?"

With two quick yeses, it was a happy trio who portkeyed from the headmaster's office.

-oOoOo-

Emma was trying not to smile at the changes in Petunia since they first met for afternoon tea those months ago. Changes so pronounced that Petunia casually thanked Dobby for bringing her to Crawley as all three then headed for the train station. They left their overnight bags, knowing Dobby would take them to the castle when they were needed.

Petunia couldn't wait to tell them that the Dursleys were going abroad for their summer holidays. She had finally managed to convince Vernon to give it a try, since Harry was effectively paying for it. Their trip to Majorca would be the first time any of them had been abroad.

She also noticed there was no hesitancy in Petunia as she returned Harry's hug of greeting. "I'm sorry, Harry. Dudley and your Uncle Vernon aren't here. Dudley is very interested in visiting Hogwarts though, I hope we can arrange that for next term?"

Someone else who was watching this exchange closely was Sirius. He couldn't miss how Petunia's words seemed to mean the world to his godson. That Harry was also welcomed with open arms by Hermione's parents warmed the marauder's heart too. That Harry had a loving family around him lessened Sirius' own guilt at his failure carry out his godfather duties. It was time for more introductions.

"Hello Petunia. I'd like to thank you for raising Harry. He's such a fine young man, and most of that credit must go down to you and your family. Thank you so much for that."

Petunia was blushing, mostly in embarrassment, as Sirius them moved his attention and introductions to the Grangers.

It was a lovely summers day in London so they chose to walk the relatively short distance to the Leaky Cauldron, chatting away as they did so. Petunia couldn't wait to slip that the Dursleys were going abroad into the conversation, causing Harry to stop dead on the pavement.

"How did you ever convince Uncle Vernon to holiday anywhere else other than Britain?"

She rather sheepishly gave away her secret. "We're staying at a four star hotel, where breakfast, lunch and dinner are all buffet service..."

"...and both Uncle Vernon and Dudley love buffet service!" When Harry started chuckling, Petunia couldn't help but join in. This also gave Sirius the opening he was looking for.

"I know everyone is making plans for the summer, and I hope to spend some of that with Harry and Hermione. The Blacks though have an unplotable island in the Caribbean that I'm intending to spend time at over the next few months. If you haven't anything else arranged, everyone would be more than welcome to join me there."

"Your own private island?"

"Dan, my family weren't the nicest of people, which is why I ran away at sixteen. Harry's grandparents took me in. The Black island was originally used for smuggling, rum mostly. An unplotable island and 'notice me not' charms on the ships - it's what built my family's wealth. Then they decide they're purebloods - and hate muggles. They're all mad."

This had Dan chuckling. "Harry says most magical people are nuts, you're more like your godson than you think. We haven't booked anything yet, apart from wanting Neville to spend some of the holidays with us."

"Neville's more than welcome. I'm hoping to convince Ami Bones to spend some time there too, so Susan would likely be included as well. Is that alright with you?"

"That's fine with us, though Neville might get some grief from Parvati over it."

This had Harry laughing at Hermione's suggestion. "Oh I think we can move from 'might' to being an absolute certainty. Parvati's Neville's girlfriend, he kissed her and now she's planning their wedding. She would go mental at the thought of Susan there with Neville."

"Invite her too, the more the merrier. I visited Neville's parents while I was in hospital, we were all close friends. I can't imagine him going to Augusta and asking for advice on things like this. Tell him he can talk to me, if he wants."

It was Petunia who had to ask what had happened to the boy's parents. Hearing they had been tortured into insanity had her more determined than ever that Harry would be staying in Privet Drive over the summer.

Entering the Leaky Cauldron was a revelation for all of them, even Harry. He had no memory of his first visit with Hagrid, therefore no way to know that this time was actually worse. He found himself being mobbed by well wishers.

There were three muggles standing trying to get their heads around just how famous Harry Potter really was when something else was added into the equation. A wee old witch took Hermione's hand and began shaking it.

"Well done to you too, dearie. You were so brave. Then again, we knew you would need to be special to win our Harry's heart."

It took them twenty minutes to get from the pub to Diagon Alley, and then another fifteen to make it into the relative safety of Madam Malkin's Robes for all Occasions. Sirius had made an appointment with the owner and she, knowing who and what these robes were required for, had her very best stock on display.

Petunia had been a mere spectator the day Lily had stood on the small pedestal and been measured for robes. Sirius insisting everyone was going to get robes today saw Petunia step onto that very same pedestal. It seemed like no time at all before she was then dressed in a beautiful sapphire blue robe. Petunia was admiring herself in the surrounding mirrors when she noticed two crests appearing on the garment. A puzzled look saw Sirius explain.

"This is a formal occasion so you should be identified as Harry's family. The crest on the top is the Potter family crest, with the Black one below it. Harry is not just my godson but my heir. He's the last remaining Potter and also next in line for the Black family too. Wearing those crests places you, Emma and Dan under the protection of both families. Hermione's ring already does that for her."

Petunia was beginning to feel rather self-conscious but spotting Emma in a dark maroon version of the same robes eased her mind. Sirius and Dan were now dressed in black while Harry and Hermione's robes displayed they were Gryffindors. The claret with gold piping also had their house crest on their sleeves, the Potter and Black versions taking pride of place on their chests.

Petunia, Emma and Dan also found themselves with a couple of more everyday robes each. Sirius' reasoning being they wouldn't stand out as much in Hogwarts if they were dressed pretty much the same as everyone else.

Sirius had originally intended they would spent some time shopping in Diagon Alley but the crowd now gathered outside Madam Malkin's made that idea a non starter. Spotting the press now amongst the crowd too, Sirius asked if they could use their portkey to leave from the shop. With the amount of business and publicity these customers had provided today, Madam Malkin felt that was the least she could do.

-oOoOo-

At breakfast on Saturday, it was announced a light lunch would be served in each of the four common rooms. This was to allow time for the Great Hall to be made ready for the awards ceremony at three o'clock.

In Gryffindor, there was far more excitement over Parvati, Lavender, Dean and Seamus being allowed to once more sport their Gryffindor colours than there was over Harry and Hermione's new dress robes. That all changed when they reached the still closed doors of the Great Hall, an incensed Draco ignored all instructions to stay away from Potter. He raced over and was in Harry's face.

"A mudblood has no right to wear the Black family crest. Get that removed, before I do it..." A loud and angry Draco was about to draw his wand when a hand clamped on his shoulder. As Hermione pushed herself in front of Harry to stop him reacting, Draco had turned his head to find himself facing a furious Sirius Black.

"Blond hair and an overly high opinion of themselves - an opinion you seem to think everyone should share. You can only be a Malfoy. By what right do you call Lord Potter's intended that disgusting name, and then make demands of him?"

Draco's own anger though fed off who else he spotted alongside Sirius, namely Dan, Emma and Petunia. "Filthy muggles wearing the Black crest too! I'm heir apparent to the House of Black and won't allow this disgraceful situation to continue."

"You're a jumped up son of a death eater who's too stupid to know how much trouble he's just put his family in, nothing more than that. Lord Potter is my godson, and chosen heir..."

"Potter's neither a lord nor a Black."

Turning to Augusta Longbottom, Sirius could only shake his head. The sarcasm though was dripping off every word he uttered. As more and more people were now waiting on the doors opening, most of the school heard what was said. "I can see why you want to make these new courses compulsory for everyone in first and second year. Some families are so busy pushing death eater dogma down their children's throats that they forget about teaching them what they're supposed to know."

Augusta had spent the morning talking with Sirius, Dan, Emma, Petunia and Minerva. Sorting out their summer plans, and also what they wanted to happen in Hogwarts come September. The school board had unanimously passed their ideas at the latest meeting and they now had a clear mandate to push this forward. Though they only had a rough schedule in place at the moment, Augusta took it upon herself to give Malfoy his first lesson.

"Being awarded Orders of Merlin immediately changed Harry and Hermione's status, they are now regarded as adults in our society. You just very publicly insulted Lord Potter, the future Lady Potter and both their families. The Malfoy family could and should face severe retribution for such public insults by their heir."

Minerva then gave Hogwarts opinion on what had just happened. "For using that disgusting word, I shall be contacting your parents and making my displeasure known. You will also be serving detention with Mister Filch every night until the express leaves next Saturday. The three adults wearing robes with the Potter and Black crests on them will be some of your teachers come September. A student addressing any of them in the manner Mister Malfoy just did will find themselves kicked out of Hogwarts."

While Draco was left reeling from this multiple assault, Sirius delivered the knockout blow. "Dorea Black was Harry's grandmother, thus easily allowing my godson to be named my heir. I would dump the entire Black fortune in the North Sea before I would let a Malfoy get their hands on it."

Taking out his wand, he then said the words that would ensure such drastic action would never be necessary. "I, Lord Sirius Orion Black, cast Narcissa Malfoy, nee Black - and any offspring she may have - from my family. So mote it be."

A totally shocked Draco could only fall back on his often repeated threat. "Wait until my father hears about this..."

"You can pass on a message from me too. While the D.M.L.E. might not be able to accept the evidence we have that he attacked the Grangers home, it's proof enough for me. These people are now clearly under the protection of my house. Your death eater father goes anywhere near them again, I'll call him out. Lucius Malfoy will soon discover the difference in facing an auror head to head, rather than him and a bunch of his costumed murdering friends ambushing helpless victims."

As the doors opened, Hermione was manoeuvring Harry through them. "He's not worth it, love. What Sirius just did will hurt Malfoy a lot more than you punching his face in."

"You're right, Hermione, but punching the prat would certainly have made me feel better."

As everyone made their way into the hall, Draco was left standing there with only Pansy, Vince and Greg for company. A nervous Pansy asked what he was going to do now.

"I'm certainly not going to sit and watch as the Minister of Magic fawns over Potty and his mudblood. They've just stolen my inheritance, and no one does that to a Malfoy. I'll need to write to my father, he needs to know what happened." Draco stormed away, leaving the other three to follow in his wake.