Chapter 14
Amelia looked over her assembled aurors with a sense of pride. These were HER officers yet she also felt a little sorry for what she was going to have to do here today. Her eyes settled on young Zak Dolan, she really was throwing him in at the deep end here. Zak was a muggleborn and, in her opinion, the best person to handle this. Quite simply, he was Amelia's unofficial department source for all things muggle. Time to get this meeting underway, they had a lot to get through here this morning.
"Nice to see everyone here, I won't keep you in suspense any longer as I'm sure you're all dying to know why I dragged you out of bed at this hour."
There was a picture of Malfoy Manor now projected behind Amelia. If any building radiated power, wealth and influence, this was it.
"What you see behind me is a picture of what used to be Malfoy Manor. My use of the past tense is no mistake, since sometime around midnight, this is all that's left of it!"
A flick of her wand and the photograph now displayed was the one Harry had sent her. It drew gasps from an audience who immediately recognised the amount of power required to cause that type of destruction on such a grand scale.
"Draco Malfoy was not one of the death eaters pictured attacking in Crawley. His job was to be look-out and alert the attackers when Harry Potter and Hermione Granger entered the building. He played a vital role in eight people losing their lives and has now paid the ultimate price for that act."
Not one pair of eyes had left the picture and Amelia knew the question was coming, she wasn't disappointed.
"Boss, what the hell could cause that amount of destruction? That place was a veritable fortress."
This was the bit Amelia knew would shock her troops, it scared the hell out of her. "As you may know, our minister was forced to contact the muggle Prime Minister after the attack on Crawley. Bringing justice to those who were involved in that attack is now a joint operation between us and the muggles, this is how the muggles dealt with their part of it. I've asked Auror Dolan to give us a quick brief on how this was done."
Zak gingerly got to his feet and tried not to let his nerves show. He was only in his second year since graduating auror academy, now he was standing here having to brief some of the wizened old aurors who taught him everything he knew about the job. He sat the small box down on the table in front of his boss and took comfort from the smile she gave him. Zak would rather be anywhere else than standing here now but when Amelia Bones asks you to do something, the word no is not an option as an answer.
"Good morning everyone, from the information Madam Bones has given me, it's quite clear how this strike was carried out. Please excuse the crudeness of my props, I only found out I was doing this about an hour ago. That was far too late to start wishing I'd paid more attention in Professor McGonagall's class."
Everyone knew your attention had to be total in Minerva McGonagall's class so that got a laugh or two and allowed Zak to relax his nerves a bit. He just hoped his model worked, otherwise he was going to look a right tosser.
"This has precision airstrike written all over it." Zak removed a model fighter plane from his box and used his wand to levitate it above the desk. He then turned the box upside down to represent the target.
"The easiest way to carry out a precision air attack is to 'paint' the target. Think of it something like attaching a tracking charm."
This was terminology they understood, so far so good. Zak removed a small laser pen from his pocket and fired the beam at the box. All eyes were now focused on the little red dot.
"With this method, you don't need to be inside the wards. Anywhere you have a view of the building will do. Once the target is acquired, all that remains to be done is radio the plane and inform the pilot his target is ready. The plane will be over three miles high and at least five miles away, all that's needed now is for the pilot to press a button and death will come calling."
Zak had the plane in the air and twisted his wand, a small firework shot out the underside of the plane and smacked straight into the red dot on the box.
"The bomb would crash through all defences, neither wards nor walls will stop it. I estimate this one would have been around the thousand pounds of explosives range, easily enough to destroy a building this size."
This was met with total silence as witches and wizards struggled to comprehend this, conformation was asked for.
"Are you saying one of these bombs was enough to reduce Malfoy Manor to rubble, and this flying machine fired it from five miles away?"
Zak understood they weren't questioning him personally, they just were having trouble believing this.
"Yes, that's exactly right. There would be spotters on the ground whose job it would be to shine a dot of light on the building. Their version of a light would be much more powerful than this little toy I've got here. They should have been able to shine it from about a quarter of a mile away."
Amelia could see the realisation smacking into her aurors, there was no defence in the magical world that could cope with a weapon like this. All that was needed was someone who could see magic to point the light, the rest was inevitable and unstoppable. Considering the way their society treated squibs, they all understood there would be no shortage of volunteers for that position.
Amelia hated putting Zak on the spot here but this had to be done, news of this briefing would be all over the ministry before lunchtime. "Auror Dolan, is that the most powerful weapon that the muggles have in their arsenal?"
"Hell no, not even close!" Zak just realised what he'd said, and who he'd said it too. The smile his boss gave him said she expected Zak to continue. He tried to think of the best way to explain this to his fellow aurors.
"The one thing sure to get any muggle government's full attention is a terrorist attack, that this one also led to the death of children and you were always going to get a swift, decisive and deadly response."
Zak glanced back over his shoulder at the destroyed Malfoy Manor and let everyone draw their own conclusions. "Muggle governments have bombs so powerful that, should one be detonated in central London, their government, our ministry, St Mungo's, Diagon Alley and a few million people would all be gone within seconds."
That was a lot for magic users to fathom, Zak gave it a moment to sink in before continuing. "Probably the greatest fear of these governments is that a terrorist organisation gets its hands on one of these things and sets it off in a city. With Crawley, they saw evidence of terrorists who can appear and disappear at will, casually killing children in a busy street. That's why we have that picture behind us, it really was the only way they could respond."
The silence that followed this was long and thoughtful, Amelia once more took control. "Thank you for that Auror Dolan, I think it's safe to say we all learned something here today."
Amelia waved her wand and the picture changed as Zak took his props back to his seat. The image of the twelve death eaters attacking Crawley was now displayed.
"Now, as informative as Auror Dolan's briefing was, that's not the main reason I've assembled you here today. As I said right at the beginning, this is a joint operation. Now it's our turn!"
This had them all sitting up just a little bit straighter before Amelia continued. "In the early hours of this morning, I received a list of twelve names from Mr Potter.."
"The sneaky little devil!"
"Something you want to share with us Senior Auror Tonks?"
Tonks was shaking her head. "Sorry boss, it's just that Remus and I had dinner with them last night and nothing like this was mentioned. Is Harry working for us or them?"
Amelia jumped all over Tonks at that last remark. "Senior Auror Tonks, there is no us or them. Mr Potter is working to bring Voldemort and his minions to justice, just as everyone in this room is. I can assure everyone here that, should we discover Voldemort's whereabouts, I would have no hesitation in calling a strike like the one that levelled Malfoy Manor down on his head."
That was a popular announcement, it was far easier to go in later and pick up the bits rather than try to take the most powerful wizard in the country down.
Amelia now got down to the real business of this meeting. "I have been given the names of everyone in the picture behind me. I want them all to be eating their dinner tonight in one of our holding cells. The muggle government has shown us what it is capable of, I will not have my department found wanting." She glared at them to make sure they understood the message.
"Voldemort has already killed two of them and Pettigrew won't leave his master's side, that leaves us nine targets to bring in. We'll go with nine teams of six with the rest split into two emergency response teams in case we hit any trouble out there. Now here's what we're going to do..."
-oOoOo-
Edmund Parkinson was still suffering badly from the shakes, a by-product of spending the day with his master while the dark lord was in a foul mood. Repeated exposure to the cruciatus curse saw at least half his porridge shaken off the spoon before it completed the journey to his mouth. It was hardly surprising then that he didn't put up much of a fight when the aurors stormed his house with their wand's already drawn. He took three stunners to his torso before his body had time to hit the floor.
-oOoOo-
Duncan Dickenson was built like the proverbial brick shit house, with a constitution to match his rough exterior. Unlike Parkinson, there were no tell-tale signs of cruciatus exposure. His father allowed him to build a tolerance to the torture curse by casting it on him when he was a mere boy. His loving father justified the curse's use with the claim it would toughen Duncan up. Duncan wondered if his father would be proud to know his theory was proven right. Then again, since it toughened his son up enough so he could kill his father when he was only thirteen, his late father probably already knew that.
You really needed to be tough to eat and drink in a place like Skunks' in Knockturn Alley. Once upon a time the pub had another name but everyone now just called it Skunks', purely because that was the nickname of the owner. It may seem strange for a witch to own the toughest pub in Britain but Skunk didn't get her nickname because she had a streak of white in her once black hair. Quite simply, she would do any stinking thing that was required to earn a knut and not caring who got hurt while she did it.
Duncan's eyes were immediately drawn to the young girl who was obviously lost and had wandered into the bar for help. She must be really desperate if she was asking Skunk for help.
The girl appeared about fifteen with long, dirty blond hair. She had a very pretty face and shapely legs extended below her robes, this girl was a looker. Duncan noticed all this while knocking three others out his way as he raced to get to the girl first. He couldn't remember the last time he had one so young and fine.
"Excuse me miss, if you need help well then you've just found the very fellow. Come with me and we'll get all your problems sorted out, no bother at all."
Duncan didn't give her time to answer but led her from the pub. They odd couple left too much jeering, whistling and rude comments shouted out with more than a hint of jealousy. He led her along while maintaining a tight grip on her arm, nodding occasionally but not listening to a word she said. He was too busy trying to get her back to his rooms before he was forced to fight someone else for the privilege, one glance had told Duncan she was worth fighting for.
When the first stunner hit, the surprised death eater merely staggered. The first spell was quickly followed by another four that put the hulking brute down. The young girl suddenly had pink, spiky hair and stunned the prisoner once more for good measure. Her team quickly surrounded them, their wands covering the downed death eater as he was disarmed and placed in manacles.
Tonks was pleased, that couldn't have gone much better. "Well done people, now let's get this piece of shit into a cell." They portkeyed out of there before any trouble could develop.
-oOoOo-
Harry was nervously eating his breakfast, having to concentrate on remaining visible while the temptation to become invisible was almost overwhelming. Every time he glanced towards Hermione's glowing features and wide grin, his discomfort and blush cranked up another notch. Last night he was too physically and emotionally drained to do more than cuddle into Hermione, this morning though was a whole different matter.
The physical side of their relationship took a large jump forward and Harry would like nothing better than to be sitting here wearing a shit-eating grin to match his fiancée's, the trouble with that was they were sitting having breakfast with her parents. Awkward didn't even begin to describe how he felt, Harry was sure there was a large sign hovering over his head proclaiming – Hey, you'll never believe what I did in bed with your daughter!
Emma didn't have to be a genius to see something had changed between the couple this morning. She was a great believer in not asking a question that you didn't want to know the answer too, but her curiosity was killing her. "Alright Hermione, what's going on?"
Hermione had a beautiful smile on her face and gave a contented sigh. "Oh mum, it's Harry. You'll never believe what he did last night. After you went to bed, he channelled his inner James Bond."
Hermione's breath was catching as she said this and both Granger parents were now examining Harry in minute detail. "Yes, he was sneaking around in the dark and getting up to things he shouldn't."
Harry was wondering if he could apparate out of here before Dan could get his hands on him. What the hell was Hermione up to?
"Yes daddy, our Harry here might just have earned that DB5."
Harry was looking at her, his eyes begging for mercy. Hermione decided to put him out of his misery.
"Double -O- Nine and three quarters here snuck off to Malfoy Manor last night to have a little chat with Draco. Then he and our new friends arranged for the same thing to happen to their manor as happened to your dental surgery. Unfortunately, Draco didn't have someone special make him wear an emergency portkey and his house fell on him." Hermione gave a little pause to let it sink in before delivering the coup de grace. "Of course, by this time he'd told Harry the names of everyone wearing a mask who attacked Crawley. Amelia Bones will be rounding them up today."
Emma had tears in her eyes as she rose slowly and made her way to Harry, she had trouble speaking but the hug she wrapped him in told Harry everything he needed to know. Dan was next, shaking his hand and looking like he just might buy Harry that DB5 himself for last night's work.
"You have no idea how much this means to us. Knowing they are going to be taken care of gives us hope of one day returning to our old life. Thank you Harry, from the bottom of our hearts."
This was surreal as Harry watched an emotional Dan and Emma leave, Hermione was still sporting the same grin she'd been wearing since sneaking out his bedroom this morning. She made her way over and sat on his lap, kissing him soundly before whispering in his ear.
"Next time you go off on a mission, make sure Pussy Galore comes too. Otherwise, this morning's performance will seem like a picnic! Harry, where you go, I go."
She kissed him again before rising and saucily sauntering out the room. Just before leaving, she turned her head to look back over her shoulder. Harry was sitting there pole axed with his jaw hanging open and she had to fight to contain her giggles, Hermione couldn't help but think 'mission accomplished'.
-oOoOo-
Cornelius was reading the special edition of the Prophet with a great sense of relief. The entire 'muggle assistance' episode could have blown up in his face, Much like Malfoy Manor must have done to Draco. The Malfoys might have been rich and powerful but much of their wealth and prestige had been gained at the expense of others, the general public loved to see powerful figures brought down to earth and would weep no tears at the Malfoy woe.
Much of the outcry over involving muggles in magical affairs was choked off at the source by the news that, of the fifteen who were involved in the Crawley attack, only one remained still at large. There were five dead with trials for the other nine now scheduled to begin tomorrow.
This swift justice, combined with the image of a once imposing mansion reduced to rubble, was a convincing argument that the muggles were better left alone. Here was irrefutable proof that they were a race that reacted swiftly, and with deadly force to attacks on their people.
Cornelius didn't see the need to tell anyone that the muggle Prime Minister had promised him that, if the ministry didn't get this situation under control then there wouldn't be a ministry much longer. One glance at the picture of the destroyed Malfoy Manor was all the proof Cornelius needed that the chap wasn't joking. He decided to push for the veil as punishment for the nine currently held in their cells, appeasing the muggle government seemed like a good idea to him.
It had been bandied about the ministry for decades that the magical community would never survive, far less win, a war against the muggles. Here again was proof of that. Their society had struggled against you-know-who since the very early seventies, needing a toddler to save them. The muggles merely required his address to post him a message there was no recovering from.
Cornelius didn't care who finished off you-know-who, just as long as someone did. On that momentous day, there should be enough credit flying around for the minister to grab some for himself.
-oOoOo-
Harry and Hermione were down in the basement training room. He had shown her some spells that they'd then practiced for a while before resuming Hermione's animagus training. It was important that Harry kept her down here for at least a few hours while his plans unfolded upstairs. He now realised that Hermione had been hurt by his running off to deal with Malfoy on his own. Instead of shouting or arguing with him, she'd held him tight and soothed his soul. Putting her own issues aside to help him was just the kind of response he'd come to expect from this wonderful girl, he was working on saying sorry and thanks at the same time.
Dobby and Winky were currently busy transferring the contents of the Black library to the room he had designated to become one in their Glasgow home. He also had Dan and Emma busy helping with this task as well. Wearing slight glamours, they were currently shopping in Glasgow's book shops. Both he and Hermione would need books on chemistry, biology, physics, maths and English to prepare for their non-magical exams. They would need to pass these courses if they wanted to study medicine at university, neither had any intention of using their new government connections to get an easy ride. With Hermione's parents currently at a loose end, both had offered to tutor on the subjects they needed.
They had been staring at one another for ages as Harry was in her mind, guiding her through the transformation process. Hermione broke their connection and suddenly shrieked when she noticed that her arms were covered in chocolate-brown feathers. They melted back into her skin. "Did you see that Harry? I got a bit of a shock there but I'm sure I can do it again."
She concentrated for a moment and they feathers reappeared.
"Hermione, that's wonderful but you mustn't overdo it. That's enough for now love."
She had both arms around Harry and was kissing him for all she was worth when her mother entered the room. "So, this is the kind of training you two get up to down here?"
Hermione stopped the kiss, thought not through any sense of embarrassment. She was way too excited for that. She rushed over to her mother. "Mum, wait until you see this!"
She held up her hand which very quickly became covered in feathers.
Harry hated spoiling her fun but, if she overtired herself in the beginning, it would just take longer to complete the transformation. "Hermione stop. I think it's time we show you what we've sneakily been preparing behind your back. No more feathers today love."
Harry had just given Hermione another focus for her excitement. "Will I like this surprise?"
Emma laughed in response, having seen the finished room before she came down here. "Hermione, I know you're going to love it. After Remus and Tonks get married, your dad and I will help you study for your normal exams. I'm afraid you're both on your own as far as those newt things are concerned."
Hermione was led into the new library and let out a squeal of delight. Apart from all the books, there were two desks for working at as well as a few wing-backed chairs and a leather sofa for just relaxing with a good book. She jumped on Harry and thanked him in a similar fashion to her greeting at the Grangers hired French villa.
Dan thought he must be getting used to them as a couple, either that or it was because Hermione wasn't dressed in a bikini at the moment. He found himself a lot more accepting of the situation this time.
-oOoOo-
Severus Snape was having a great deal of trouble accepting the current situation, a fact he was loudly proclaiming to Dumbledore in the headmaster's office. Pages of the special edition of the Prophet were scattered around the room as the potion master's temper saw him throw the newspaper away.
"My godson was murdered, by muggles no less and yet everyone is just accepting this? What in the name of Merlin is going on? Oh, or should that be 'in the name of Potter?' I'm half expecting that to be tomorrow's headline - Potter rules over Britain, World domination expected early next week!"
Albus tried not to sigh. "Severus, I raised the matter of Harry with Amelia Bones and was given short shrift. The wizarding world see the boy as a hero, an Order of Merlin winner no less. As you well know, Cornelius is heavily swayed by public opinion and won't hear a word said against the boy." The old wizard could see this news did not please his potions professor, he attempted to offer some advice.
"There is nothing either of us can do at the moment Severus, except wait and see what opportunities present themselves. Any further news from Voldemort?"
Severus shook his head. "He has very few followers left now. We both have heard the rumours of mercenaries from the four corners of the world entering Britain in the hope of claiming Potter's blood money. The dark lord is calling no one to his new location, I would suspect only he and Pettigrew know where it is."
Albus nodded in understanding. With some of the names he'd heard mentioned as being interested in claiming that reward, and ministry pardon, it was no wonder Voldemort was making himself scarce. Harry had rendered him mortal and it now only needed one person to get lucky with a spell, potion or blade for the dark lord to be no more. With Harry offering the reward, it could even be construed as death by his hand. Albus watched as the anger flowed from his potions professor. He'd given Severus advice, now it was time for a warning.
"Severus, you cannot let your animosity toward Harry cloud your judgement in this matter. Any wrong doing on your part would undoubtedly lead to the involvement of the DMLE. My influence is not what it once was, I may not be able to protect you."
Snape couldn't help but return his gaze to the discarded newspaper scattered on the floor. "Headmaster, our world is changing. Neither influence, gold, wards nor walls would appear to protect anyone now. I'm afraid I can only act as my conscience dictates and will just have to live with any consequences."
As Severus left the office, Albus couldn't help but think that statement worried him more than any development printed in the Prophet.
-oOoOo-
The British Government also had to contend with what appeared in the media. A Ministry of Defence D notice and the Official Secrets Act meant things were holding at the moment. Being able to release some good news also helped. Secretly, highly placed government officials were 'leaking' the real story, off the record of course.
The real story being that these terrorists were from a country very friendly to Britain. They'd mistaken their target when they attacked Crawley. This friendly government was appalled and had apologised at once, they had been dealing with the problem internally and hadn't suspected it would spill over into Britain. They'd apologised at once and were now doing all they could to help with the situation. The people injured in the attack had all been moved to a private hospital, receiving world class care free of charge. There was also a large sum of money set aside to help the bereaved and give the town of Crawley assistance in getting things back to normal.
The two governments had also worked closely toward the swift resolution of this problem. Citing the reason behind the request for anonymity was to protect the good relations this country had with the British people was believable, economies had been wrecked by less vile acts than the one carried out in Crawley. The real reason that the secrecy held though was the news they were able to release.
Due to the involvement of British Special Forces, the problem had been practically resolved. Of all the people who had taken part in the attack on Crawley, five were now dead with all but one of the remaining terrorists captured. One of the more obnoxious tabloids were so delighted with this news, they proclaimed that the matter could be summed up in one word.
A picture of the destroyed building that was once Malfoy Manor appeared on their front page under the headline 'Gotcha' This proclamation was then followed by a by-line claiming 'our lads' had taken them out. Without all the hard facts, speculation was running rife and some of the rubbish printed would have given the Daily Prophet a bad name.
-oOoOo-
There was no press presence at the wedding of Nymphadora Tonks to Remus Lupin, both bride and groom were delighted at that. The guest list was very small for the muggle wedding ceremony. This was the same tiny church Tonks' mother had married her father in, seeing how happy her mother and father were together meant it had always been her dream to get married here too. The bride's guest list included her parents and a few friends, one of whom was her bridesmaid. Remus had settled for Minerva and the Grangers, neither wanted anything to spoil their day.
Tonks was radiant as she was led down the aisle in a traditional wedding dress by her father, Harry had half expected her to come dressed in something outlandish. Harry couldn't miss the expression of sheer joy on both the bride and groom's faces, he also noticed the look of longing on Hermione's. Perhaps it was time to move forward their plans?
Harry had thought waking up with Hermione beside him was his favourite thing in the whole world, only to have his world rocked by discovering what they could do when they were then awake. They would really have to talk about setting a date, but not until she was safely out of Hogwarts. That would be the time to discuss their future.
Harry tried not to think of the discussion he had with his two favourite elves after they approached him about them starting a family. Harry was totally lost as again, the elves apparently do things differently. Winky wanted babies, Dobby was available so Harry found himself being asked for permission. There appeared to be no marriage, love or even a bond where elves were concerned, just biology at its most simplest.
Harry finally got the gist of what Dobby had attempted to explain, since he and Winky were of House Potter then there could be no better environment to raise babies. This gave Harry the insight he needed to make his decision. Dobby and Winky may not love each other but they would be doting parents to any babies they may have. After being raised in the Dursley household, Harry thought any child of Dobby and Winky would be blessed to have such loving parents. Of course, he was always going to give permission. The difference now was that he could justify that decision to Hermione when she found out. Before having that discussion with his fiancée, Harry decided to wait until Winky was pregnant first.
He patted the pocket of his waistcoat for about the millionth time today to confirm that the wedding rings were indeed still in there, Remus was counting on him and Harry wouldn't let him down.
-oOoOo-
Ron was sitting by himself down beside their old Quidditch pitch with his Firebolt across his lap. Like so many things in his life lately, the broom was brand new. Ron had spent most of his life coveting and revering anything new. Now he had a new house, clothes, school books and a world class new broom. That was even before he took Lavender into consideration, his beautiful new girlfriend. Why then was he sitting here wishing things could go back to the old ways?
Days spent flying with Harry, Ginny and the twins while Hermione sat and read her book. Then they would all make their way into mum's old kitchen where they would enjoy one of her delicious meals. That was what Ron missed, the simple old days.
Their new house was undoubtedly beautiful, and mum certainly loved her new kitchen, but Ron now felt like a stranger in what used to be his favourite room. He missed the old kitchen of his childhood. Same issues applied to his new bedroom. It was bigger, brighter, with its own bathroom but he missed the old bumps, dents and posters that made it his room. At the moment it felt as if he was staying in that French villa, very nice but he wanted to go home now.
Then there was Lavender. This potential problem appeared to dwarf all the other ones combined, probably because he was helpless to do anything about the rest of them. He felt himself falling for Lavender Brown a little bit more each day.
When his girlfriend heard that there would be no issue of Teen Witch Weekly published, she blamed herself and went into a class one funk. Employed for two weeks and managed to put the magazine out of business was her reasoning.
When Ron pointed out the obvious, that she was sixteen and it was the editor's job to decide what got printed, it was like watching the dark clouds of depression leave his girlfriend. Ron thought this in itself was reward enough, Lavender though had other ideas. He'd walked around with a goofy grin on his face for the rest of the day.
This was the crux of Ron's dilemma, and the reason he was sitting here in contemplation. In a few days they would be returning to Hogwarts and the thought of Lavender not being on his arm was, he finally admitted to himself, inconceivable. What that would mean in terms of friendships, Ron didn't know. Worst case scenario for him was Hermione having a go at Lavender in his presence. He could perfectly understand Hermione's reason for doing so, this didn't mean he wouldn't instantly spring to Lavender's defence. Any row between him and Hermione always had the potential to escalate, this one could be a dozy!
He was also aware of the tension in the Weasley household since Harry and Hermione politely refused the offer of a party at the new Burrow. Mum was really hurt and, although she hadn't said anything, Ron knew who she blamed for the situation.
Ron was shocked out of his musings by a voice he knew very well.
"Hey mate, if I knew you were going to just sit there and stroke it, I wouldn't have bothered buying you a Firebolt!"
He spun around to see his best friend standing behind him. "Harry! What...Why... Where's Hermione?"
"She's up at the house, catching up with Ginny and your mum."
Ron took a deep breath and plunged forward. "Harry, I don't know what to say about the attack..."
He was interrupted before he could say anymore. "Listen Ron, there has been a lot of mistakes made this summer. The important thing is to learn from them."
"How does Hermione feel about me still being with Lavender?"
Harry understood his apprehension, Hermione was not someone you wanted upset with you. "Well, Hermione was actually quite impressed. She thought it was about time you began to grow up!" He punched Ron playfully on the shoulder. Hermione did indeed say those words, Harry just omitted the bit where she expressed her disappointment that it was Lavender Brown he'd chosen to 'mature' with. Hermione was of the opinion Ron could do much better, Harry kept his own council on the matter.
"We've got thirty minutes until lunch is ready." Harry checked his birthday present from Dan and Emma. "Twenty-five now. Do you want to see what these brooms can do?"
Both shot into the air, Harry on Ginny's Firebolt, as a very fast game of chase unfolded. Apples were then snatched from the top branches of the trees as chase gave way to catch.
Ron wore a wide grin as he flew around their old pitch on his new broom alongside his oldest friend and thought things might not be so bad.
His mother's voice was soon calling on them for lunch so they flew down to the broomshed before setting off for the house.
"Ron, I need to ask you a favour?"
"Anything Harry, just name it."
"Well, with me not at Hogwarts this year, I'm worried that might be taken as an opportunity to attack Hermione. We've upset a lot of people this summer, people who may have children at Hogwarts. We both know Hermione can take care of herself but I would feel better with someone watching her back."
Ron was quite choked at the trust Harry was placing in him with this. "Harry, you know I've always got both your backs."
The two friends walked up to the Burrow, ready to enjoy the delicious lunch on offer and thinking everything was once more right with the world.
Chapter 15
Harry was bemoaning having to travel over four hundred miles down from Glasgow to London, only to then have to come all the way back up on the Hogwarts Express. He was also bemoaning having to spend the next few weeks as an owl. It was going to be hard seeing all his friends and not being able to talk with them.
Hermione put a quick end to his pity party by kissing him and then whispering some good news in his ear. "I'm going to miss you so much, I think Puck is going to have to sleep with me every night that I stay in Hogwarts."
It was an enthusiastic and grinning Harry Potter who portkeyed with his new family to Grimmauld Place.
The Granger family got a taxi from there to Kings Cross station. Dan and Emma were wearing their slight glamours, it would be some time before the furore died down from their appearance in the British media. With their faces all over the news broadcasts and newspapers, they really couldn't go out in public without them. Puck was disillusioned and sitting on Hermione's lap in the taxi. Even in London, walking around with an owl perched on your shoulder was going to attract attention. Harry had refused point blank to consider a cage.
They found a reception committee waiting on them as they approached the station. The Longbottoms, Lovegoods and Weasleys were all there to greet them before they made for platform nine and three quarters.
Hermione couldn't fail to notice a rather pale Lavender clinging to Ron for dear life. She greeted all her friends and told Lavender they would chat later on the train. The group made their way through the barrier and it wasn't until they were actually on the magical platform that puck became visible, now perched on Hermione's shoulder.
"Bloody hell Hermione, have you never heard of a cage? Is that bird going to be taking classes with us too this year?"
Hermione was quick to reply. "This from the boy who walked around with a rat in his pocket for three years?"
Luna was giggling as she held on to Neville's arm. "Oh I think we're going to see a lot of Puck this year. He'll keep us all on our toes."
They soon began to get uncomfortable with all the people staring at them so goodbyes were said as they made their way onto the train and claimed a compartment. Their parents were also doing a bit of catching up, three sets of them now had suffered an attack of some sort over the summer. They left to get a coffee, knowing their children would be safe on the train.
The six got organised in their chosen compartment before the prefects meeting began. With Ginny and Luna also wearing prefect badges, Neville was going to be left keeping Lavender company. Ron was very happy with that as he suspected Lavender might get a rough time from the other students, no one was going to bother her with Neville sitting there.
Seamus and Dean were the first to stick their heads in the door to confirm Harry wasn't returning, they may have been the first but they certainly weren't the last. Colin Creevey appeared only a step away from bursting into tears after receiving conformation his hero wasn't returning to Hogwarts, the prefect's badge on his robes was of little consolation to the star struck young man.
Padma and Parvati arrived to comfort Lavender, and eye up Neville. Luna made sure to give him a kiss before she left for the meeting. Hermione had to order Puck to stay, giving the beautiful owl a peck on the cheek for obeying her.
The doorway had barely closed when Parvati started. "Where did Hermione get the gorgeous owl? She talks to it as if it was human."
Neville supplied the answer. "That's Puck, I think Harry got him for Hermione and he's a very smart owl."
Parvati was shaking her head in amusement. "Figures Hermione would get an owl to match her personality. Hey Neville, you and loony? I have to say I never saw that one coming."
Parvati had also never seen the new Neville Longbottom either, she was about to get a sneak preview and discover that picture in the Prophet was no fluke. "Miss Patil, I would remind you my girlfriend's name is Luna. She is one of the youngest ever recipients of our society's highest award, an award she earned after spending her summer fighting death eaters and dementors. What did you do with your summer?"
Both twins were taken aback by this version of Neville Longbottom, Parvati was so upset she wanted to pounce on him right this second. Padma now understood Luna's appointment as a Ravenclaw prefect, the school had obviously learned from their mistake of not giving a badge to Harry Potter last year. When you had Luna receiving the Order of Merlin in Hogwarts tonight, it would be impossible to give that badge to someone else. That Luna was now friendly with the new Head Girl, Cho Chang, wouldn't hurt either. Padma thought anyone attempting to bully Luna this year was in for one hell of a shock.
Parvati managed to stop undressing Neville with her eyes and turned her attention back to her best friend. "How are you holding out Lavender?"
"Oh ok. Ron's been amazing and Hermione's going to have a chat with me before we get to Hogwarts. If she can forgive me then I think I can pretty much cope with anything else."
"You know Hermione's not one to bear a grudge Lavender, unless you deliberately hurt Harry. There has been many incidents over the summer, yours was just one of them."
Padma was in a thoughtful mood as she reflected on what her sister had been saying. "It's strange to think that Malfoy, Crabbe and Goyle will all be missing this year. They're the same age as us but their lives are already over, what a waste!"
Neville felt no sympathy for the former Slytherins. "Cedric Diggory wasn't much older when he was murdered. Malfoy's father wasn't trying to hit us with tickling charms at the ministry that night, death eaters don't mess around. They attacked Hermione and paid the price, anyone attacking Luna is in for more of the same."
The determination in Neville's voice left none of the carriage occupants in any doubt he meant what he said. "They better hope I get to them first because Harry is all out of being merciful. Anyone attacking one of those three girls is going to quickly find themselves in a lot more trouble than they can handle."
Parvati wanted to know where this version of Neville had been hiding for the last five years, she also wanted to rip his robes off here and now. In her eyes, he'd just shot straight to the top of Hogwarts most fanciable list. As is usually the case though, he also had a girlfriend. She would just have to wait and see how things developed over the course of the year, Parvati would bet her allowance she wouldn't be the only one keeping an eye on Neville's availability.
Neville was actually relieved to see Luna return, she perched on his knee so there would be enough seats left for everyone else.
Luna was delighted she didn't have to move from this spot for the rest of the journey. "We're not needed for prefect patrols on the train today. It would seem they're afraid of any trouble from the other students so there are aurors patrolling the train all the way to Hogsmead."
Hermione took shrunken bags from her pocket and expanded them. "I have a final present here from Harry for the five of us."
Ginny removed an Acromantula silk set of dress robes from the bag Hermione gave her. They were jet black with the Weasley family crest placed above the Gryffindor one. The two boys were soon flung out the compartment with their bags and sent to the toilet to change.
Luna couldn't contain her giggles at the sight of Puck turning around to face the compartment walls when the girls began to get changed. The boys soon returned with their new robes on, both Patil sisters wolf whistled at them.
Neville made straight for Luna. 'You look amazing love." No more words were uttered as the little Ravenclaw rewarded her boyfriend.
Parvati thought they all looked amazing but had a question for Hermione. "Is that the Potter crest you're wearing?"
"Well I am engaged to Harry! He thought we should show a united front when we collect our medals tonight. The ministry crew might be one short but this way Harry feels he can still be part of it."
"Are you collecting Harry's award?" As she said the words, Lavender's hand shot to her mouth in embarrassment. "I'm sorry Hermione, I know it's none of my business. I just can't seem to keep my big mouth shut."
Hermione decided to cut the girl a break. "Lavender, everyone in this carriage knows that's who you are, we're all still here! I'm bossy, Ron can be a right arse, Ginny's got quite a temper on her while Luna's Luna. We're all different but still all very good friends."
Ron had his arm around his girlfriend's shoulders as she appeared close to tears. Hermione smiled as she answered her question. "No Lavender, I won't be collecting Harry's award. He told me it was all taken care of and wouldn't say any more. You'll all find out what he's up to at the same time as me." Hermione had to consciously stop herself turning around to look at Puck when talking about Harry.
The carriage would have settled down at that if Parvati hadn't decided to stir the pot again. "Ginny, you're going to need a beater's bat to keep the boys away when they see you in those robes."
Ron was quick off the mark. "She won't need any bat, that's what big brothers are for."
Ginny pinned him with a stare. "I'm being awarded an Order of Merlin, I think I'll be able to fend off anyone I don't want chatting me up."
Parvati sensed an opening to learn a juicy piece of gossip and went for it. "Oh, and just who in particular do you want to be chatting you up?"
Hermione thought it was time to turn the conversation in a different direction. "Luna, how was your expedition? Did you and your father find what you were looking for?"
The little Ravenclaw was now gushing with her enthusiasm. "Oh yes, Harry's advice proved to be exactly what we needed. I'll need to thank him the next time I see him. They actually got so used to us that they would sit and let me sketch them, the next issue of the Quibbler has some of my drawings on the front page."
Hermione attempted to bite her tongue but eventually had to say what was on her mind. "Wouldn't it have been better to take photographs? Then no one could dispute your claims."
Luna appeared to be looking directly into Hermione's soul as she asked her next question. "Do I need a photograph before you believe me Hermione?"
There was no hint of hesitation or uncertainty in Hermione's answer. "Of course not Luna, but not everyone knows you as well as we do. A photograph is harder proof than a drawing."
Luna just shrugged that off and continued to snuggle into Neville, she'd certainly missed her boyfriend. "My friends believe me, what else matters? A camera flash would have frightened them away and we wouldn't have gotten to see them behaving naturally. Watching how they cared for their young was really fascinating, they are wonderful little creatures and I haven't seen daddy so excited in ages." Luna was looking toward Hermione but including Puck in her glance. "Be sure and let Harry know for me next time you see him."
The Patil twins had no interest in Luna's creatures so left the compartment to see what else was happening on the train. Their compartment was still busy though with students rubbernecking as they walked past or popping in to say hello. Apart from Harry's absence, the most noticeable difference was the phrase 'how was your summer' wasn't uttered the entire journey. Their exploits had been all over the Prophet this summer. Their annual visit from a group of Slytherins was neither missed nor commented on.
-oOoOo-
Students arriving in the great hall were shocked to see another table set there, not half as shocked though as the ministry five who knew everyone currently sitting at it.
Dan and Emma Granger, Molly and Arthur Weasley, Xeno Lovegood, Alice, Frank and Augusta Longbottom with the newly married Lupins completing the line-up. The remaining places at the table held place cards for the other Order of Merlin winners. Puck flew over from Hermione's shoulder to greet them, landing on Dan's outstretched arm.
Hermione was currently hugging her mum and it was hard to tell who was the more excited. "What are you guys doing here?"
Emma was delighted to finally see the place where Hermione and Harry spent most of the last five years. They'd been here since lunchtime and Remus had given them a guided tour. "What? Did you think they were going to hand out these things without your family present?"
Dan had to keep a straight face when delivering the next line. "Harry sent his apologies, he still refuses to come." Puck bobbed his head up and down as if he thought this was funny before retreating off to perch in the rafters so he could watch the show.
The Grangers were not only inside Hogwarts, they were going to witness the sorting, enjoy the welcome feast before then witnessing their daughter and her friends receive their awards. Watching the new first years being led into the hall, neither Granger parent had any difficulty picturing an eleven-year-old Hermione being as wide-eyed as these youngsters. They were thoroughly enjoying this experience, though that was not a view shared by everyone.
Albus saw his last faint hope fade into nothing as Miss Granger arrived without the presence of Mr Potter. With the minister of magic in Hogwarts to distribute their Order of Merlin awards, here was conclusive proof that Harry Potter was finished with the magical community. To refuse their top award, presented by the minister was a snub that would burn his last bridge to their society. Albus could see no way back for the boy now.
As the sorting finished, the headmaster stood. "I would like to extend our welcome to the new first years who joined our Hogwarts family today, we all hope your stay here will be a pleasant and productive one. To those students returning to their Hogwarts family, you may have noticed we have some very special guests with us tonight. This summer has been like no other I can remember and a lot of that is due to the people sitting at our extra table tonight. We'll get to that after we've enjoyed tonight's feast, tuck in."
With the minister of magic sitting beside Dumbledore and an entirely new table inside the great hall, the returning students weren't short of topics to talk about while they enjoyed their meal. That Harry Potter wasn't on the train was a surprise to some, that he wasn't here to collect his award was a surprise to many. Hermione Granger wearing the Potter crest and engagement ring was expected by most.
Fudge found himself actually enjoying his meal. Yes Harry Potter not being here undoubtedly took some of the shine off tonight's ceremony. Thinking back to that fateful night when you-know-who paid a visit to the ministry, Cornelius was delighted to still be in a position to hand out awards. That he managed to avoid being asked to retire was probably his greatest achievement to date. His popularity had certainly weathered the summer better than the headmaster's.
Matilda was sitting at the staff table with her witches' hat pulled down to her eyebrows. While the lightning bolt scar refused to heal, she couldn't return to work at the ministry. Dumbledore had somehow swung her a secondment to Hogwarts where she would spend her time in an administrative position. What the headmaster had omitted to tell Matilda was that Minerva had refused to continue doing it for him. Their relationship had fractured to the point where she told him to do his own bloody work.
Severus was sure he would need a potion for indigestion by the time he made it back to his quarters. One glance at the extra table was enough to have his innards twisting with resentment and barely contained anger. Had Potter actually been present, Severus would probably have vomited his partially digested meal all over the staff table.
Muggles inside the great hall was bad enough, that they were here to see Potter's insufferable mudblood receive magical society's highest award had the potions master tasting his own bile in his mouth. Running his eyes over the rest of the group offered little reprise as they were no better, a pair of Weasleys, looser Lovegood and that squib Longbottom. If any of them thought that their award would see Severus Snape ease up on them in his class, they were in for a rude awakening.
The real bitter pill for him though was the werewolf. Seeing Lupin sitting there with his new wife, about to receive an Order of Merlin before starting in the job Severus had coveted for years was almost too much for him to bear. That the werewolf who tried to kill him now sat there with everything he himself wanted out of life left Severus Snape thinking that there was no justice in the world. The head of Slytherin had no idea he was destined to discover how wrong he was.
The only thing Cornelius liked better than addressing an audience was addressing a captive audience, this one couldn't go anywhere until he was finished. Most of these youngsters still retained that sense of awe, generated mostly from their excitement that the minister of magic would actually speak to them. With a large press contingent here tonight too, this was about as good as it got for a politician.
He had also decided to keep his derogatory comments about Potter not having the decency to turn up here tonight to a minimum. Cornelius extolled the daring deeds and heroism of the people he was about to hand these awards to, enthralling the youngsters in the audience with his presentation. As the recipients were called up to receive their awards, the applause was thunderous.
When the minister had only one more medal to present, he once more played the audience. "As Mister Potter couldn't make tonight's ceremony, for whatever reason, I suppose it would be fitting if his fiancée accepted it on his behalf."
Hermione didn't step forward as the hand resting on her shoulder stopped her, the last person she expected then walked past her to speak.
"Actually Minister Fudge, I've got that covered." Those inside the great hall of Hogwarts were about to be introduced to the new Neville Longbottom in a manner they would never forget.
"During the summer, Harry asked me for a favour. As we were on our way to St Mungo's where he then healed my parents, you better believe my answer was yes."
This got a chuckle from his friends and a smile from his parents. Neville though was just getting started. "You see, all summer long the headmaster had his spies watching all Harry's friends in the hope of capturing him."
Neville turned to face Matilda. "Did you really think Hermione wouldn't recognise the witch who stole from her? I suppose the headmaster advised you against wearing a turban? At least you've only got Harry's mark under that hat and not Voldemort growing out the back of your head!"
There was general outrage at this as Matilda ran from the hall in tears. Dumbledore appeared ready to interrupt but Neville just ignored him and turned back to face the minister, with the entire hall now hanging on his every word.
"Harry wanted the ministry to at least be consistent with these awards. They've already given one to Dumbledore, the man who tried to run his life. Peter Pettigrew also got one, the traitor who cost him his parents. Harry now wants to complete the set and would like this one to be awarded to the death eater whose actions pointed Voldemort at the Potters and Longbottoms, Severus Snape!"
Severus jumped to his feet, only to find himself facing a plethora of wands. Not all of them were current holders of the Order of Merlin, there were three Longbottoms who appeared more than ready to curse him if he as much as twitched an eyebrow.
Neville walked calmly toward his potions professor, knowing his friends and family had his back gave him enough confidence to face anything. He took the hated man's hand and slapped Harry's medal into Snape's palm. "Wear it with pride professor, the person that earned it is already more of a man than you'll ever be."
Severus was well aware every pair of eyes in the hall were now focused on him, as well as quite a few wands. His eyes though never left Longbottom.
Neville just stood there, holding himself straight and proud without a trace of fear. His confidence in his friends and family giving him the strength to stand up to his tormentor, and banish forever this man's power over him.
Severus glanced down at the precious object in his hand before answering the boy. "Mr Longbottom, be sure to thank Mr Potter for me the next time you see him. Unfortunately, I must refuse his offer. This prestigious award obviously means so little to him that I can only reciprocate by treating this item with the contempt that I was shown when it was so rudely presented to me."
Severus Snape threw Harry's Order of Merlin onto the floor of the great hall before leaving with his head held high.
Fudge watched as his prestigious, and vote winning ceremony descended into farce. He could see the reporters writing away like crazy and Cornelius didn't need to be a seer to know what part of tonight would make the headlines. It was time to deflect the blame away from himself and place it squarely where it rightfully belonged.
"Dumbledore, do you know what young Longbottom here is talking about?"
There were currently an entire hall and especially three Longbottoms that were waiting to hear the answer to that question. Dumbledore had no intention of telling the truth but hadn't counted on Miss Granger supplying the answer.
"The prophecy that was made could have applied to two boys, my Harry and Neville Longbottom."
Alice, Augusta and Frank were nodding in agreement, they knew that much. The next bit floored them.
"Voldemort found out about the prophecy because one of his death eaters, Severus Snape, heard it being made to the headmaster. Snape revealing this to his master led directly to the Potters being murdered and the Longbottoms being targeted."
Augusta Longbottom was out for blood. "Snape was freed solely on the word of Albus Dumbledore."
Tonks Lupin was also distinctly unhappy at these revelations. "Sirius was left to rot in Azkaban without a trial while Snape walked free on someone's word. Am I the only one that smells something rotten here?"
Cornelius now saw his way clear of this fiasco. "No, Senior Auror Lupin, you're not. I think it's high time these allegations were investigated. If Mr Potter would contact Madam Bones with the details, I'm hereby authorising her department to examine this matter in minute detail."
The minister knew everyone was still listening and this should ensure at least he had put a positive spin on the situation, a positive spin for him that was.
With impeccable timing, a snowy white owl flew into the hall, Hedwig circled once before heading for her target. Minerva McGonagall removed the scroll from the owl's leg. Silence then fell as all awaited the next phase of tonight's entertainment, including Hermione who had no idea what Harry was up to.
Hedwig flew over to her as Puck descended from the rafters and joined the snowy owl, landing on Hermione's other shoulder. Their display was enough to draw a comment from Ginny.
"Those two are very friendly, will we be seeing chicks in the future?"
This comment had Luna bursting into giggles. "Ah Ginny, I think it's safe to say these two are very fond of each other but Puck's heart belongs to another."
Both Puck and Hedwig nodded their heads in agreement before cuddling into Hermione. This display left the few people in the know wondering just which owl was the animagus, Hedwig was a very smart bird.
Minerva was now fighting to maintain her composure as she stood to speak. "As most of you will now have surmised, Hedwig just delivered a letter from Mr Potter. I'd like to read it to you now."
Albus certainly didn't want that to happen, especially without him being able to read it first. His problem though was he couldn't think of an acceptable reason for stopping Minerva.
I'm sorry I can't be there with you tonight but well-publicised reasons prevent me from entering Hogwarts. I expect Professor McGonagall gave the new first years the – your house is your family – speech before they were sorted. Of course she's right and it's that family I'll miss most tonight. I also made friends in other houses and would advise our new first years to try and do the same.
Now for the real reason for Hedwig's visit. I wanted to be remembered inside Hogwarts for something more than being Poppy Pomfrey's most frequent customer, the following shall be my legacy.
Hermione was glaring intently at Puck but was finding it impossible to win a staring contest against an owl.
Due to bad management, the publication known as Teen Witch Weekly recently went bankrupt. It was purchased by me and is my gift to Hogwarts. I want the name changed to Teen Weekly and some articles in there that us boys can read too. I expect the first couple of months it will be purely a school magazine but use this time wisely, learn from your mistakes and I hope it will go nationwide in time for the Christmas edition.
Should this be the case, arrangements can be made with my fiancée Hermione Granger and I will give an exclusive interview for that issue. This magazine should be something that crosses boundaries of house, gender and blood. It will only be successful if everyone works together to make it so.
With that I hope you enjoy your year at Hogwarts, at least this year you have a defence professor who will let you use your wand!
This actually received a round of applause as the excitement of producing their own magazine appealed to everyone.
Minerva waited on the applause dying down before she continued. "Mr Potter asked if I would oversee this project and it's something I'm now looking forward to being involved with. Notices will soon appear in your common rooms with details on how you too can get involved in one of the most exciting things to come to Hogwarts in years."
This was again met with applause and Dumbledore was left trying to restore order and asking the prefects to lead their houses off to their common rooms.
With four of the award winners being prefects, Minerva and Filius had already made alternative arrangements to give their students more time with their families. Frank currently had his arm around Neville's shoulders.
'I'm so proud of the way you handled that tonight son, you played it brilliantly."
"Neville was braver than you think Frank. When I taught here the last time, Snape was your son's Boggart. I think we can safely say Neville has dealt with that."
Albus had intended to reprimand young Neville for his behaviour against Matilda and Severus, he could now see that would be about as welcome as serving Hippogriff shit with custard. A little sweetness and colour still couldn't disguise you were serving up shit. He'd been concerned Severus might do something rash before tonight, now he decided to go and have a chat with his potions professor.
Minerva made her way over to the group of award winners. "Can I just say I'm really proud of all of you, even if Mr Longbottom here appears to have developed a taste for the dramatics."
This raised a few laughs before the head of Gryffindor had some serious words with Hermione. "I honestly can't thank Harry enough for the opportunities he's just given the students of Hogwarts. All the supplies and equipment will be delivered this weekend. Please thank him for me when you write about the minister's promise of an investigation."
Hermione was standing there with an owl on each shoulder and trying not to chuckle. "I'll be sure to send a note off with Hedwig tonight."
Minerva showed Hermione what she had in her hand. "I lifted Harry's medal from where that person threw it. With your permission, I would like to put it on display in the Gryffindor common room. I can only hope one day your children might see it there."
"Professor, I'm sure that's an idea Harry will love. Please place mine beside Harry's, the two medals should always be displayed together."
Minerva accepted Hermione's medal as Ron added his two knut's worth. "I would love to do that too but mum has already got a space set aside to display both mine and Ginny's in the new Burrow."
Neville also thought this was a great idea but everyone had already seen him present his to his gran. Luna didn't think the Gryffindors, or the Ravenclaws for that matter, would want to see hers displayed.
They were allowed to stay with their families until just before curfew. Hugs were exchanged before they had to part. The Weasleys, Longbottoms and Xeno accompanied Dan and Emma to the edge of the Hogwarts wards. The Grangers portkeyed back to Harry's house in Glasgow while the others apparate to their homes.
-oOoOo-
Lavender was almost bouncing off the dorm walls with excitement by the time Hermione made it back. "Hermione, did you know Harry was going to do that with the magazine? Do you think McGonagall will let me work on it? Oh I'm so excited, I just can't believe he would do something like that."
"Breathe Lavender, breathe. The first two names I thought of when McGonagall announced that tonight were yours and Colin Creevey's, I'm sure Harry would have thought the same." Hermione made her way over to the window and opened it wide, it only took seconds before Puck flew in and landed on her waiting arm. She closed the window and then turned around to find both her dorm mates staring at the young witch with her owl.
Parvati was the one who voiced their concerns. "Hermione, do you plan to let that owl spend the night in here?"
"Harry gave Puck specific instructions to watch over me, I think we all know there are people in this castle who would like to do me harm. Puck will warn me of any trouble coming my way."
"Surely you don't expect anyone to attack you in Gryffindor tower, far less our dorm?"
"Parvati, that woman sitting at the staff table tonight spent her summer under an invisibility cloak and following every move I made. Harry sent Puck to me with a letter and she appeared from nowhere to steal it right out of my hand, I never even got a chance to read the bloody thing."
Both girls were now seeing Hermione's situation in a new light, a female member of staff could easily gain access to their very dorm.
"She was following us about Crawley when Harry hit her with the same curse he used to mark Voldemort, you can imagine she's not too happy about that and now Dumbledore has brought her into the castle."
Her dormmates could now see the sense in Hermione having a guardian watching over her while she slept. They had no idea Hermione was spinning the situation to suit her needs. "I'll keep my bedcurtains closed and would advise both of you not to stick your heads through them. Puck is a very gentle creature but is also very protective and has quite the pair of talons on him. That would probably be the first thing anyone sticking their heads through the curtains gets to see."
Hermione let Puck rest on her headboard before closing the curtains and heading off to the bathroom to get ready for bed. She wondered if Harry had brought pyjamas with him and then decided she definitely hoped he hadn't.
-oOoOo-
Severus paced up and down in his Hogwarts apartment, an apartment it was now clear he would soon be leaving. There was no way his crimes could withstand more than the most basic of investigations, just as there was no way Potter wouldn't write to Bones asking that there be one.
Albus had reckoned that any investigation would begin within a matter of days, leaving Severus only that small amount of time before everything came crashing down on top of him.
His pride though wouldn't let him leave without causing Potter the greatest harm possible, he didn't care what risks he had to take in achieving this goal. Severus Snape wanted revenge.
-oOoOo-
Hermione was snuggling with Harry in her bed, he'd just shown her he thought her idea for keeping her dorm mates away was brilliant. Both knew Lavender and Parvati were the two nosiest people in the school, they were also two of the vainest. There's no way they would risk a scratched face just to see what Hermione may be up to.
Although Harry had expressed his joy at her idea, Hermione wasn't too pleased with some of his from earlier on this evening. ""What the hell was that all about with Neville and Snape?"
Harry was relieved they had erected silencing charms around the bed. He told his fiancée the story. "When the idea of rewards was first muted, Neville was originally going to tell them from me to stick it up their arses. As it built over the course of the summer to where it became Orders of Merlin, I knew I couldn't do that."
Hermione snuggled in further, waiting to hear his reason.
"Remus needs his Order of Merlin to be allowed to teach, Neville got a big boost in confidence from his. His award might actually help Ron get over that crippling inferiority complex we both know he has, so you can see I was stuck."
Hermione tried not to snigger, only Harry could find himself in such a dilemma.
"Then I remembered Snape drooling at the prospect when Fudge mentioned giving him one for supposedly capturing Sirius, I knew right then what I wanted to do. I'll bet my dad and Sirius enjoyed that tonight."
"Your dad and Sirius might have loved that tonight, they don't have to put up with the man teaching them potions. Snape was always going to be a nightmare, he'll be worse now."
Harry held her close to him as he explained why he had to do what he did. "Hogwarts needs Snape gone, and hopefully he'll bring Dumbledore down with him. When I was talking to Poppy at my birthday party, she was really excited that I'd taken an interest in healing. She told me St Mungo's is crying out for healers but were facing a problem. To gain access to their healer program, one of the things you need is an outstanding NEWT in potions. Very few outside Slytherin achieve that result, purely because of Snape's prejudices and bullying."
Hermione couldn't argue with any of that as Harry continued. "Dumbledore is too short-sighted to see the harm his manipulations are having on the magical community of Britain."
She quickly reached a decision. "If I have a potions class scheduled before Snape gets investigated, I'm pulling a sickie! I would even chance taking some of the twins' products to make me sick. On second thoughts, just being in the potions lab with Snape would probably make me sick."
Harry gave his fiancée a deep kiss. "Don't worry love, I'll be beside you every step of the way. Now I'm the master of all three Hallows, nothing and no one can see through my cloak. You're stuck with me from now on."
Hermione thought that was the best thing she'd heard all night. Eventually both of them did manage to fall asleep.