Chapter 10
Hermione was cuddling into Harry as the young couple just enjoyed gazing at the night sky together. Luna had sent a note with Dobby to say she would be spending the night at the Longbottoms. Xeno was still under a potions regime that saw him spending at least twenty hours of the day asleep and both Granger parents had just left for bed.
Harry had explained the Hallows to Hermione and she now understood more of his confrontation with Dumbledore earlier today. She couldn't understand why Harry gave him the Elder Wand back though.
"Hermione, it's just too much power for one person to have. I'm keeping my dad's cloak and will find somewhere safe for the ring. Dumbledore can keep the wand since I am now its master. He destroyed Flamel's stone to stop Voldemort gaining its power yet walked around with the most powerful wand in the world up his sleeve. Can you imagine what Voldemort would do to get his hands on that? It's the hypocrisy that drives me mad, Dumbledore doesn't hold himself to the same rules and laws that he thinks should govern the rest of us. People have accepted that fact purely because he's Albus Dumbledore, they need to learn who Albus Dumbledore really is."
Hermione could see the sense in this and was so proud of Harry for reaching such a mature decision. She had something else troubling her though. "Harry, I'm worried about mum and dad. All our friends' homes have now suffered an attack but they have no protective wards to hide behind or give you a warning."
"I'm worried about that too. I could offer them Gimmauld Place to live for the foreseeable future but their dental practice has to be public. I've only been able to come up with one other solution and I doubt very much if your parents would agree with it."
"Surely it can't be that bad Harry?"
"Hermione, I think it's a wonderful idea but I'm not the one needing to be convinced."
Hermione's curiosity was now aroused. "Just what is this solution Harry?"
"As head of house, I have the right to ward any properties that contain members of my family."
Hermione could put things together quicker than anyone Harry had ever met. Mere seconds later, Harry found himself being dragged into the villa and Hermione was hammering on her parents' bedroom door.
Dan quickly opened the door, his expression clearly saying what now?
"DAD, Harry here has something he needs to ask you. Just say yes."
The bedroom door opened wider to reveal Emma standing there in her nightdress, eager to discover just what was going on. Harry had never envisaged doing this while Hermione's parents were getting ready for bed. Time once more to prove that tatty old hat put him in Gryffindor for a reason.
"Mr Granger, I'd like your permission to ask Hermione to marry me."
Dan stared at Harry suspiciously, hating where his thoughts were taking him. "Why the hurry? Was it really necessary to get us both out of bed? It couldn't wait until morning?"
Hermione could guess where her dad's mind just leapt. She may be blushing like an English tea rose but she stood her ground. "Dad, it's nothing like that. If I'm Harry's fiancée, that makes you both his family. This means he can legally place wards around our house and your practice, you've both seen how they protected our friends. I hate the thought of you two being so vulnerable to an attack."
Emma had her arm around Hermione as she led them into the bedroom. "Is this the only reason for doing this?"
The question was aimed at Hermione but Harry answered first. "Emma, I've made my intentions clear from the day we met. I love your daughter and hope one day she'll be my wife. We're not running into anything with our eyes closed here. An engagement was always going to be part of our future. Doing it now not only offers you and Dan protection, it changes Hermione's legal standing in the magical community. As Lord Potter's fiancée, the ministry or purebloods would be crazy to try any moves against her."
Hermione had never relinquished hold of Harry's hand and now squeezed it to offer her support. "I also love Harry and want this with all my heart."
All eyes were now on Dan. "Well I suppose we'll need to go shopping tomorrow again, this time for a jewellers."
Hermione released her death grip on Harry's hand to hug both her parents, Harry though wasn't finished with his surprises for the night. Dobby popped into the room and handed his master a black, velvet covered ring box with a golden Potter family crest embossed into the material.
"As Hermione will be the future Lady Potter, the official family engagement ring should be worn. We can still visit a jewellers if Hermione doesn't like it."
Harry got down on one knee and opened the box. "Hermione, I love you with everything that I am. Will you marry me?"
Hermione's gaze never left the green eyes that meant so much to her. "Harry, it would be a dream come true for us to spend our lives together. Of course I'll marry you."
Harry slid the ring on her finger before rising to kiss his fiancée. Hermione's eyes were sparkling as Harry asked her another question.
"Well, do you like the ring or are we going shopping?"
Hermione realised she hadn't even looked at it, Harry was going to marry her and she didn't care about anything else. One glance at her engagement ring though was enough to take her breath away. She had to sit down on her parents bed as her knees started to wobble. "Oh Harry, its so beautiful, I love it."
Her mother's eyes were nearly popping out her head. "Oh my god Hermione, beautiful doesn't even come close to doing it justice."
Both Granger women now had their eyes locked on the Potter engagement ring. The stone was a flawless and colourless pear shaped diamond that must have been at least four carats. This was held in place by two golden Gryffins, that then blended beautifully into the gold ring. It was a masterpiece of any jeweller's craft.
Dan had also regained his voice. "Shit Harry, that ring must be worth more than our house."
"I don't know about that sir, it's a family heirloom. Hermione will one day pass it on to our eldest son when he asks his girl to marry him. The last person to wear that ring was my mum, she was hoping Hermione would wear it next. That makes it priceless to me."
This led to Harry receiving a heart-warming kiss from his new fiancée.
Something about this situation was bothering Emma thought so, since Harry was now family, she decided just to ask here and now. "Daniel Granger, you said yes far too easily there. Just what are you up to?"
Dan was attempting not to look like a rabbit caught in headlights, his attempt got lamer as his excuses dried up. "What? Harry just offered protection for the two most important people in my life. Was I supposed to say no?"
Silence.
"This is also something Hermione clearly wants very much."
Silence and stares.
"Ok, I thought if the house was protected, these two could come home with us. We see so little of Hermione, and it would also give us more of an opportunity to get to know Harry better."
This earned Dan hugs and kisses from his two favourite women before Harry discovered another thing Hermione had inherited from her mother. Emma had him in a 'Hermi-hug' and then emitted a squeal that he usually associated with a quick dash to the library rang in his ears.
"Oh you two, this means we get to throw you an engagement party."
Silence.
"We can invite all our friends who are always asking how Hermione's doing, give them a chance to see for themselves."
Silence and stares.
"Ok, so I want to show the kids off. It will also shut some of those snooty bitches up at the same time. I'm very proud of our daughter yet prevented from saying anything about her. Now, she's going to university, has a loving fiancé and Cynthia Payne Smith will choke on her own jealous bile when she sees that ring."
This again received a few hugs and kisses until Dobby popped back in and Harry interrupted.
"Did I forget to mention that the ring is part of a set worn on formal occasions, like an engagement party?"
Harry opened the box to reveal a matching diamond pendant necklace and earrings. All three Grangers had to sit down as Harry's actual wealth hit home.
-oOoOo-
Ginny was folding her new clothes and placing them in her wardrobe. Winky had wanted to do it when the little elf delivered them. She'd never had new clothes before and this gave Ginny a chance to savour them all over again. Harry had pointed out that, since it was his fault they would be spending time in the muggle world, it was only fair he bought the muggle clothes they needed. Ginny had no idea how much time they would be spending in the muggle world but Harry appeared to have bought enough clothes to cover any and all occasions she could possibly think of.
Ginny was expecting trouble from her mother, thankfully that never materialised. Winky's appearance at Neville's house with a note from Harry saying that all Weasleys were welcome at the villa was greeted with large smiles. Bill, Charlie and Percy joining them in France had her mother walking on cloud nine. Nothing made Molly Weasley happier than having all her children under one roof again.
Ginny heard the knock on her room door and a worried looking Ron stuck his head in. "Ginny, can I talk to you for a moment?"
Ron sitting there and not even commenting on her new clothes alerted Ginny this could be bad.
""It's Lavender."
This could be very bad. "Ron, I don't know if I'm the one you should be asking for relationship advice. Also, I never, ever want to hear any details of what you and Lavender get up to. Share all the bodily fluids you want, just don't tell me about it."
"It's not like that Ginny, it's probably worse."
Ginny had thrown that last bit in as a joke to lighten the mood, now she was seriously worried. She could only wait as her brother screwed up his courage.
"Teen Witch Weekly somehow heard that Lavender was at Harry's birthday party, they contacted her."
"Oh Ron, please don't tell me she gave them an interview? They contacted Neville and were abruptly told to get lost."
"No, again it's worse. She refused to give them an interview, so they offered her a job. As you know, she's an avid reader so they came up with the idea of getting her perspective on things."
Ginny could see where this was going. "They especially want her to write about anything connected with Harry or his friends?"
Ron nodded in agreement. "She's writing an article for this weeks issue. You can bet Harry's party will get more than a mention."
"Please tell me this is a prank the twins put you up to?" Ron's lack of response saw Ginny lose it. "Fuck sake Ron, you know what Harry's like better than I do. He'll go ape shit if one of his so-called friends starts writing stories about him."
"You think I don't know that Ginny? What am I supposed to do? Lavender sees this as a career opportunity. Writing about fashion for a magazine is her dream job, this is a foot in the door."
Ginny was shaking her head as she attempted to think this through. "If she writes anything bad about Harry, Hermione will scalp her. The twins were spot on, Hermione can be one scary witch when she wants to be. I don't even want to think what Harry will do if Lavender writes anything bad about Hermione?"
They were silent for a moment as both considered this. "You do realise this means Lavender can't be in Harry's company again? No one would be able to say a word for fear of seeing it in print."
Ron couldn't really argue with his sister's assessment, it matched his own perfectly. "That's my problem Ginny, I really like Lavender. It won't be long until we go back to Hogwarts and Harry won't be there anyway."
"Ron, you need to think hard about this situation. If you side with Lavender, we won't be able to talk about anything other than Quidditch or the weather. Lavender's tongue would soon have yours telling her anything she wants."
Again Ron couldn't argue, Lavender's kisses were simply awesome.
"If we're going to meet Harry in the muggle world we won't be able to tell you, far less take you along. You'll be reducing your circle of friends to just Lavender, unless Parvati hangs about with you two."
Ron had already known all this before he entered his sister's room, hearing his fears confirmed did not make him feel any better. "Lavender's already writing the article Ginny, could you warn Harry and Hermione for me? I don't think I could face them at the moment."
Ginny could see this was hurting Ron but he'd made his choice. "Ok Ron, I can do that but you need to do something for me. Try and get a copy of the bloody thing before it hits the streets, perhaps we can limit the damage. It will at least give us some idea of how bad this mess is going to be."
-oOoOo-
Remus answered the door of his cottage to find Amelia Bones standing there.
"Hello Mr Lupin, can I speak with you and Miss Tonks for a moment?"
It was a surprised Tonks who watched her old boss walk into their living room. "Madam Bones, what are you doing here?"
"I'm trying to hold on to one of my department's most promising assets. There has been a lot of time, effort and gold spent on making you the outstanding auror that you are today. I will do everything within my power to ensure I don't lose that."
Tonks was thrilled, embarrassed but mainly confused. "I'm sorry Madam Bones but I can't see any other options. I want to marry Remus more than I want to be an auror. Current ministry law prevents me from doing both. Are you proposing to change the law?"
Amelia sadly shook her head. "I'm sorry, as much as I'd like to, we'd never get that passed the Wizengamot at the moment. What I'm about to suggest is working within the current rules and laws to make it possible for you to do both. Arthur Weasley actually began the germination of this idea when delivering Harry's question to the minister. I'm assuming you both know what Mr Potter is proposing?"
Tonks confirmed they did before asking a question of her own. "Yes, but since Remus here hasn't done anything, there is nothing to pardon."
"I'm aware of that. It just got me thinking of a way that would make your relationship acceptable under current ministry rules. An Order of Merlin completely changes Mr Lupin's legal status, removing any barrier to Mrs Lupin continuing as an auror."
Amelia quite enjoyed the shocked looks on both their faces, she continued with her pitch before they could find reasons to object. "I would hasten to point out this is in no way a form of charity, both of you have earned these awards. The fight at the ministry, in which Miss Tonks was injured, and then the dramatic rescue of Mr Lovegood qualifies you both. Neither of you needed to be there on either of those occasions, you voluntarily threw yourselves fully into the fray."
She gave this a moment to sink in before continuing. "The so-called ministry six will also be receiving them, that's currently scheduled for the first of September at Hogwarts. All eight of you have fought in the two most important battles of this war, and emerged victorious. These awards are thoroughly deserved."
Remus' thoughts had moved in a different direction though. "Does this mean Pettigrew could escape justice because he has an order of Merlin?"
"No, not at all Mr Lupin. Peter Pettigrew was awarded his posthumously because he supposedly died a heroic death. Should he prove to be alive, that would most certainly negate his award."
"Oh he's alive all right, I've spoken to the rat. Harry stopped Sirius and I killing him, a decision that came back to haunt us all since the rat was responsible for Voldemort's return. I'm not sure about this award Madam Bones, it may change my legal status but nothing else. My lycanthropy will still see me treated as a second class citizen of our magical society."
Remus had to reign himself in before he went on a rant about the bigotry that was prevalent in their community. "I've had many jobs in the muggle world and it holds no fears for me, Dora's father is a muggleborn so she's comfortable there too. Harry is the last remaining link to my best friends and also a young man I admire very much. I will not lose contact with him. This is something my fiancée and I are going to have to discuss before we can reach a decision. I would like to thank you for the offer and I think I can speak for both of us when I say we're honoured even to be considered."
Amelia was surprised, she thought they would jump at the offer. The head of the DMLE was far from finished though, it was time to lay all her cards on the table. "Mr Lupin, I see this as a fantastic opportunity to begin changing the magical community's attitude to werewolves. An Order of Merlin recipient and being married to a senior auror sends out a powerful message. That message is one of tolerance and being able to see the person, not just the disease."
Tonks did a double take at the mention of Remus being married to a senior auror but Amelia had more up her sleeve.
"Susan told me that in her five years at Hogwarts, she's only had two good defence teachers. Professor Lupin and Harry Potter. I don't think we'll be able to convince Mr Potter to take up the post but I was hoping to have better luck with you."
Tonks was gobsmacked. "Wow boss, senior auror and Hogwarts professor with a couple of Orders of Merlin thrown in? You must want us pretty bad? Can you swing this past the minister and Dumbledore?"
"Dumbledore is actually in a ministry cell, currently having the facts of life explained to him for that stunt he pulled at Longbottom Manor yesterday. Molly Weasley and Augusta Longbottom wanted to do the explaining personally, we spared him that. Dumbledore will do what he's told."
Amelia knew she couldn't hold the sly old fox much longer but intended to wring this concession out of him before he was released.
"The minister sees you both as two powerful individuals who are dedicated to fighting the death eaters. That you're both friends of Harry Potter and anti-Dumbledore doesn't hurt either. Yes, the minister will get his positive headline but I think that's a fair trade-off. Hogwarts gets an excellent defence professor and you are given the perfect platform to show our youth that werewolves are not dark creatures. I also get my auror back. Sorry, senior auror."
Remus was really moved by Amelia's offer, it was very rare for him to be given opportunities like this. "It's a very tempting offer Madam Bones. My year spent teaching at Hogwarts was easily one of the most enjoyable of my life. There's also being able to see Severus Snape's face when I get awarded an Order of Merlin and the job he really wants. Can we think about it and let you know?"
"Remus love, I know this is something you really want. You're a born teacher. I've also spent years becoming the best auror I can be, this is our chance to have it all. Get married, have a family and create the life we want for our children."
"Children? As in more than one?"
"Well I think the world needs more marauders. It's down to us until Harry and Hermione are a bit older."
Amelia could see this was something they both really wanted and she soon got her yes, she left the cottage a very happy witch.
"So Miss Tonks, we both apparently have responsible jobs and will be held up as examples for the younger generation. I don't think we can continue to live in sin any longer."
Remus watched as his fiancée really did become long faced, he decided he'd teased her enough. "I think we need to organise a wedding and then I'll see Minerva about married quarters."
Dora never actually said anything, Remus just assumed from the way she pounced on him that his fiancée agreed with that plan.
-oOoOo-
It didn't take Ginny long to discover why there was a party-like atmosphere at the other villa. Luna's dad back on his feet and being able to join them beside the pool might have contributed. Ginny was sure though that it was more to do with the French sunshine hitting that massive sparkler on Hermione's finger, throwing off a light show the twins would be proud of. Ginny's face fell as she realised what she was here to do, Ron certainly owed her for this one.
Hermione of course noticed Ginny's disappointment when she spied her ring. "Is there something wrong Ginny? I was sure you would be happy for us."
"Oh Hermione, I'm delighted for you and Harry, you guys were made for each other. It just makes what I've got to say all the harder. Ron's so going to pay for dumping this on me today"
Ginny took a deep breath before continuing. "Ron told me last night that Lavender had been approached by Teen Witch Weekly. They originally wanted an interview after Lavender had broadcast it all over Britain that she was at Harry's birthday party. When she knocked them back, they offered her a job as a reporter. She bit their hand off and will have an article in this week's issue, you can guess who'll feature heavily in it."
This was met by silence, her four friends and the adults didn't know what to say. Unbelievably, the silence was broken when Hermione started to giggle. This proved infectious and also released any tension Ginny's revelation had caused. If Hermione was laughing, things couldn't be that bad.
It was Harry who got to ask the question. "Hermione, I realise I'm not as smart as you but I fail to see the funny side of this. What's tickled you?"
"Harry, I couldn't help it. The only thing I've seen Lavender read, apart from Teen Witch Weekly, are cheap bodice rippers. We are talking about the girl whose favourite subject is divination. I was just imagining her first headline and couldn't hold my laughter in."
Ron Ron to the Rescue!
This did indeed raise some more laughter but Emma wasn't happy.
"Hermione, that was unkind and uncalled for. Ignoring Lavender's academic abilities, this article could do a lot of harm. You yourself told us people in the magical community tend to believe what they read. This is being written by one of Harry's friends, lending credibility to whatever she writes."
Harry had to agree with Emma. "Hermione, look how many people bought Lockhart's lies. I seem to remember a certain second year witch being rather taken with the cowardly ponce that nearly got Ginny, Ron and I killed. Ginny, what's Ron saying about this article?"
"Well I would have to say he's not happy about it, but he intends to continue seeing Lavender."
Harry understood Ron's decision, didn't mean he had to like it though. "That's his choice but he has to know we can't very well invite what would effectively be a spy into our camp. Even when Ron's here on his own, we'll have to be careful and not say anything we don't want to see in print. I have every confidence in Lavender's abilities to wangle anything she wants out of Ron. Does he understand this Ginny?"
"I explained all this to him yesterday, right after he told me. Ron's not exactly thinking with his brain at the moment Harry. Fred told me Lavender paraded him up and down Diagon Alley yesterday, almost as if she was showing a prize bull at market. She's practically leading Ron around by the nose, and he's loving every minute of it."
Luna let out a loud yuck. "Thanks for that Ginny, there's an image I didn't need."
Hermione was back in serious mode. Realising that her mother was right and silently promising to pay Harry back for his Lockhart quip. At least he didn't mention her drawing little hearts on her timetable. "Harry, perhaps you should meet with Rita soon. Any story coming directly from you would carry a lot more weight than anything Lavender will write. The best way to deal with this might be to ridicule it."
Luna disagreed. "Hermione, how do you think Ron will react if Harry publicly ridicules his girlfriend? I think it might be better to arrange the interview for after Lavender's article comes out. Any liberties she's taken can be dealt with honestly and directly. Ron was there too, I know that love is supposed to be blind but even he must recognise the truth when he sees it. If not, there's nothing more we can do."
Neville agreed with his girlfriend but also had a suggestion to add. "Harry, it might be better to have the head of the DMLE there. I think it would help if Madam Bones heard it from you, rather than reading this in the Prophet. She's just as dedicated to seeing the end of Voldemort as you are. Susan is the only family she has left, the death eaters saw to that. I could speak to dad and arrange the meeting at my house."
"Nev, that's a couple of brilliant ideas there. How about we don't even tell them I'm going to be there? Spring it on them as a surprise, they really won't know what hit them."
Dan, Emma and Xeno invited themselves along as well, it was a given his friends and fiancée would be there. They wanted to keep their engagement a secret until Lavender's article was printed, thus showing she was not the close friend they were sure her article was certain to portray her as. This put pressure on Ginny but she readily agreed. It was only for a couple of days and she intended to spend most of her time here anyway. They would soon all have to be returning to Britain.
Remus and Tonks arrived by their portkeys to announce their great news, Harry quickly agreed to be best man. On hearing what they were planning, Tonks thought including Madam Bones was a brilliant idea. Both also invited themselves along to the meeting.
-oOoOo-
Lavender refused all Ron's efforts to read her article before it was published, claiming it might bring her bad luck. Therefore, it was with a sense of trepidation that they all waited on the magazine hitting the newsstands. Luna was actually staying with the Longbottoms in Britain so she could pick up a few copies and portkey to the villa. As expected, the picture of Harry, Hermione and Neville was prominent on the front cover. The headline though set the tone of the entire article.
Sixteen Candles - Eighty-Seven Dementors - What a Birthday Party!
The ministry six certainly know how to party. One minute it was dancing by the swimming pool, the next it was duelling dementors and death eaters.
Lavender certainly knew her target audience, and what was important to them. The only details given of the battle were rather reminiscent of Lockhart describing how not to chip a nail when battling a werewolf . There were more paragraphs dedicated to how the girls tied their hair back for battle than there were about tactics used. Their relationships were also mentioned in depth though no sarcastic comments or cheap shots were taken.
Ginny though was mortified when Lavender raised the point that she was the only member of the ministry six currently not attached. It was Lavender's confident prediction this wouldn't last long when the beautiful redhead returned to Hogwarts that had Ginny cringing. Lavender did make a great deal of them all being able to use the patronus charm to fight against the dementors, and that it was taught to them by none other than Harry Potter.
The whole thing read like some teenage fantasy. Ron kissing his girlfriend goodbye before going to fight a battle, he returned victorious and they partied the night away. No mention of tears or terror, apparently fear just didn't exist for the ministry six.
There was thankfully also no mention made of their plans for Voldemort. To the readers of Teen Witch Weekly, Harry Potter wearing a silk shirt that matched the colour of his eyes was much more important.
Their feelings were mostly that of relief. There wasn't anything written there that Harry was going to have to slap down hard enough to erode their friendship with Ron any further.
There were also a couple of massive stories in the Prophet that would pull adult attention away from any teen magazine. The remaining dementors had all defected from Voldemort and returned to Azkaban, begging forgiveness. The dark lord had promised them as many souls as they wanted, if they did his bidding. The boy with the blade had the ability to make them extinct if they chose that option. The dementors knew which option scared them the most.
There was also the official announcement that the ministry six, with Remus and Tonks, were to receive Order of Merlin's. The ceremony was scheduled to take place on the first of September at Hogwarts.
It was now time to write the Prophet headline for tomorrow.
-oOoOo-
Hermione was holding her fiancée tight as they sat quietly, bathed in the gentle moonlight of the warm French evening. The day had been anything but gentle for Harry. Wounds that he thought had been healed were reopened and would soon bleed all over the pages of the Prophet. It had started so well too.
Both Madam Bones and Rita had gratefully accepted that Harry would answer any questions, except those that might expose his sources. There was also a quick discussion on whether it should be publicly announced that Voldemort had created horcruxes, the fear was of anyone attempting to copy the madman. The consensus was soon reached that knowing what a horcrux was didn't mean Daily Prophet readers would be rushing out to make one. Voldemort wasn't actually much of an advert for attempting this process and no creation details would be discussed, other than to say it was the darkest of magic.
Harry then proceeded to give everyone present the life history of Tom Marvolo Riddle. It was an exceedingly grim tale in parts, especially the prophecy that led to his parents' murder, but Harry pushed on. When he spoke about destroying Riddle's horcruxes, and the plan in place for dealing with Voldemort now, the reporter almost swallowed her quill. Rita asked three times for confirmation that the reward was actually five hundred thousand galleons.
It took over four hours by the time the questions were finished. Madam Bones appeared ready to gut Dumbledore after discovering that he knew about Voldemort's horcruxes but then did bugger-all about them.
The Longbottom hospitality included an early dinner at which Madam Bones asked a simple question. "Harry, if this works and the world is finally rid of Voldemort, will we see you return to magical society?"
It wasn't the question that affected Harry so much, more the expressions of hope on some of the faces that Harry thought he'd explained his reasons to. He took the decision there and then to kill off the boy-who-lived once and for all time.
Harry then treated them to a detailed view of his childhood pre-Hogwarts, a childhood Dumbledore had condemned him to. A blow by blow account of his years at Hogwarts followed, Ginny cried when he was describing the chamber of secrets incident. Amelia was not the only one out for blood when she saw his hand with 'I must not tell lies' engraved into it.
Only Hermione had known the full story, she held Harry's hand during the telling and watched the opinions hardening around the room as his story unfolded. Her parents would certainly have withdrawn her from Hogwarts if there weren't already plans in place for her to leave.
The Longbottoms, Xeno and Madam Bones all had children attending and returning to Hogwarts. All were also now greatly concerned and would be demanding assurances.
Rita was practically glowing with excitement but at least had the good grace to try to hide it. She came here today expecting an interview with the Longbottoms. Instead, she'd just been handed the two biggest stories of her life. She would bet that everyone else would think like Harry's friends. When Voldemort was gone, Harry Potter would return to them. Rita would be able to hit them with another exclusive after they had digested her expose of Tom Riddle.
Telling everyone his life story had a far greater effect on Harry than he'd anticipated, which was why he was currently wrapped in Hermione's arms. He spoke for the first time in what seemed like hours.
"I don't want their pity Hermione, that's not why I did it. I just couldn't bear to see the hope in their eyes, knowing they were going to be disappointed. I thought I'd made it plain I would be leaving for good. If our friends didn't get it, how could I expect anyone else to?"
"Do you honestly think Ginny, Luna or Neville pity you? Admire? Yes. Love? Probably. Feel terrible that their friend has had such a shitty life? Certainly. No one will ever regard you the same after hearing or reading that, I assumed that's why you did it."
Harry gave her a wry smile. "I'm tearing down Dumbledore's reputation and credibility. Destroying the myth and mystique of the invincible Lord Voldemort. It was time for the boy-who-lived to die. I don't want to become the hero of this piece Hermione, I just want to fade away into the background and be forgotten about."
This earned him a tight, comforting squeeze from his fiancée. "You'll always be my hero Harry, never lose that saving people thing."
This generated his first smile of the night. "You're one of the very few people in my life who just sees Harry. Not the boy-who-lived or some freak. I can't tell you how much that means to me."
"Harry love, this ring you put on my finger tells me everything I need to know. You also see the real Hermione, you love me in spite of all my faults and insecurities."
Harry then proceeded to kiss each and every one of those insecurities goodbye as the young couple drew comfort from each other.
-oOoOo-
Ginny portkeyed into the villa to find herself engulfed by her family, a party was in full swing. "Ginny, we're so proud of you and Ron. Two Order of Merlin's in the family. Your father and I are so proud. Where have you been? We've been trying to contact you since we heard the news. All Winky would say was that you already knew and were with Harry."
After listening to Harry's revelations about Harry's life, a party was the last thing Ginny wanted. "I knew about the award a couple of days ago mum, Madam Bones told Remus and Tonks."
This silenced everyone before Ron's whine broke the quiet. "You knew and didn't tell me? I think I had a right to know."
Ginny took this opportunity to unload on her brother. "Right to know? Is that the journalist in Lavender rubbing off on you already? I warned you we wouldn't be able to tell you anything for fear of it appearing in banner headlines under Miss Brown's name. Your two supposed best friends are now engaged and the reason you don't know is because your two new best friends live under Lavender's jumper. Everyone else was there for Harry today but not you, I hope she's worth it Ron?"
Molly spun Ginny back around to face her. "What happened? Is Harry all right? Why weren't any of us there?"
"Harry had a meeting with Madam Bones and Rita Skeeter. I think he revealed a lot more than he intended. I was in tears just listening to him talking about it, he's had to live it. Thanks to Ron's girlfriend, you're just going to have to read about it like everybody else. Please excuse me, I'm going to my room."
Ginny was fighting back the tears as she left.
Molly was intent on following her daughter but Bill's hand on her shoulder halted that idea. "I'll go mum. Something is clearly bothering her, she may open up to me. If she does though, I probably won't be able to tell you about it."
"I don't care Bill, just see if you can help her."
Bill found Ginny sitting on her bed, staring at the picture of her friends fighting the dementors. "That picture is really something, I don't know if I could have stood there against the dementors."
"You would if Harry was there too. He touches something deep inside you that makes you never want to let him down, you just know he'll always be there for you. It just hit me today that I'm only going to be able to see him a few times a year. Even though I wasn't always in his company like Ron, I always knew he'd be there if I needed him."
Bill noticed his sister's silent tears but chose not to mention them. "Ginny, I don't know Harry but get the impression he won't desert his friends. You are clearly one of his best friends and very dear to him. What set you off today?"
"Oh Bill, he's had such a terrible life. His muggle relatives treated him like a freak and then the magical world treated him even worse. If I was Harry, I would leave and never come back."
"Is that what's bothering you, or is it the fact Harry's now engaged?"
Ginny's blush didn't seem to match the tears but it was there none the less. "Half the witches in Britain will be crying when they read about Harry's engagement, I won't be one of them. These tears are for my friend Harry, and Hermione. I don't care what they say, Hermione won't be at Hogwarts for long when Harry's not there. I'm going to be losing two of my best friends."
Bill put his arm around is sister and pulled her into his chest. "Listen to me Ginny, they seem like a very nice and smart couple. There is no way they would lose touch with someone as special as you."
Ginny cuddled into her oldest brother as her tears gradually stopped. "Harry's already pretty-much told me the same thing, and he'd never lie about something like that. Thanks Bill, I think I just needed to hear it from someone else."
Bill couldn't help but think his sister was becoming an outstanding young witch, the company she kept had a lot to do with that. The esteem Harry was held in by his family was shocking to the eldest Weasley boy, that was until Bill realised what the lad had done for his family.
He'd not only saved Ginny's life, but dad's as well. He was funding a new burrow, funding the twin's new business and played a major part in his two youngest siblings receiving an Order of Merlin. Bill couldn't see any way Harry Potter was going to abandon the Weasley family now. Ginny might not see her friends as often as she liked but Bill thought they would always be there for her.
-oOoOo-
Like Ginny, Luna was on her bed and crying at the thought of losing her friends. Unlike Ginny, she had no older brother there to offer comfort and words of advice. The Lovegoods were back in their own house which allowed her to stare once more at her artwork on the ceiling. Her friends meant so much to her. Also like Ginny, Luna knew Hermione would soon follow Harry out of Hogwarts.
Her intelligence was telling her that Harry would always be her friend, her heart was still breaking though. Listening to what Harry had to endure growing up was mostly responsible for her distress. That, and she realised the significance behind the move. Harry was deliberately burning his bridges, he wouldn't be coming back to the magical community. Both she and Neville were committed to keeping Harry and Hermione in their lives, neither made friends easy enough that they could let two of their best friends just walk away.
Harry would be moving in with the Grangers for the remainder of the summer, Luna already knew her way there and both Ginny and Neville were keen to accompany her.
Thinking about Neville slowly halted her tears. They were getting on really well together and he appeared very happy to be her boyfriend. Luna was hoping with all her heart that this wouldn't become just a summer romance, falling apart when they returned to Hogwarts.
She understood that Neville would now be considered quite the catch, and there were certainly witches at school who would offer him a lot more than Luna was prepared to do at the moment. She didn't think Neville was that type of boy but wouldn't know until some witch draped herself on him. Luna could only wait and see, she actually wasn't looking forward to her trip with her father this year. Luna knew she would miss her friends, and especially Neville.
-oOoOo-
Do you want to earn 500,000 galleons and a ministry pardon?
Draco caught the attention-grabbing headline and couldn't wait to read more. His eyes were the size of dinner plates before he was even half finished digesting the rest of the article.
Malfoy Manor then rang to the sound of the dark lord's rage. Draco couldn't hide the shudder of fear that ran through his body. This was going to be bad, this was going to be really, really bad.
Chapter 11
Voldemort knew he had to respond, it had to be targeted, brutal and public. Potter's revelations and massive reward had left him afraid to turn his back on his own followers, far less try to sleep. This was hardly the ideal preparations to plan a major attack. Nevertheless, the current situation demanded he hit back. The last few attempts had failed spectacularly because they had vastly underestimated the boy, that wouldn't happen again.
It was hardly surprising though, Snape had taught the boy for five years and still had an extremely low opinion of Potter. The Malfoy boy was as bad, both these opinions were worthless as they were marinated in the jealousy of the two Slytherins.
It was time for serious thought on how to turn the boy's weaknesses against him. It was also time magical Britain understood what happened to those who crossed Lord Voldemort. He wasn't sure if killing the boy would put an end to this infernal five hundred thousand bounty on his head, it would certainly make anyone consider twice before trying to earn it.
What he really needed now was information on Potter, and a good night's sleep.
-oOoOo-
With Luna and Xeno's travel plans already set, the engagement party at the Grangers had to be quickly arranged. There was no way Harry or Hermione wanted Luna to miss it, that and Neville would have been miserable all night. Dobby and Winky were soon caught up in the excitement of a party for their master and mistress, this left Emma only needing to send out the invitations.
The wizards and witches on the guest list though would require quite a bit of thought on their part. Luna, Neville and Ginny were spending a lot of time with them in the muggle world and would easily cope with an evening full of non-magicals. Remus and Tonks would also effortlessly blend into the crowd. Xeno stood out even in the magical world, he wouldn't last two minutes. To be truthful, Molly and Arthur weren't too much better. Letting Arthur loose in a muggle house was a big enough risk, he would certainly raise a few eyebrows when he started talking about his plug collection. The twins wouldn't be able to resist the temptation to pull some pranks, irrespective of whether the party was magical or not.
The real problem was what to do about Ron. For Harry and Hermione, the thought of their engagement party without Ron being present was not a realistic one. They both wanted him there. To invite Ron without Lavender would only increase the strain on their friendship, not something either of them wanted to do. Forcing him to choose was not only unfair, it could see five years worth of friendship washed away. The five friends were already spending a lot of time together and Ron was slowly being marginalised. They would have to invite Lavender too and just try some damage limitation on the evening.
Emma couldn't believe how quickly the entire thing came together, especially with the two elves in charge. Nothing was too much trouble and everything was possible, oh how she loved magic.
-oOoOo-
Molly was crying her eyes out, it was now easy to see why Ginny was so upset last week in France. The Weasleys were back in Britain, staying at a rejuvenated Grimmauld Place while construction on the new Burrow gathered pace. The Daily Prophet lay on the table and was responsible for Molly's tears. Rita had played it masterfully, giving everyone a chance to digest her last article on Tom Riddle before coming back with the heartbreaking story of Harry's life.
The headline of 'Why Harry Potter is leaving us' certainly grabbed everyone's attention.
In an exclusive interview, Harry Potter laid to rest the myth of the boy who lived. There was no pampered life of plenty for the Potter child, quite the opposite. All his life Harry has been denied love, affection and even the basic knowledge of who he really is.
Left on a muggle doorstep as a baby, our saviour was systematically abused by these magic hating muggles. The same wizard who left him on that doorstep was prominent in the abuse, scars and misinformation Harry was met with in his five years of Hogwarts. Since his parents were murdered that fateful Halloween, every figure with authority over his life has failed this young wizard. Even in his five years at Hogwarts, every one of them has been marked by attempts on his life. That these attempts have usually been by the very people supposed to protect him might lead to some understanding of his decision.
Harry Potter has chosen to continue his education in the muggle world, he also intends to live and work there. This is not a decision he's reached lightly, he will be leaving behind friends who share a bond of standing beside him through some horrendous experiences. Their response to the recent attacks in Ottery St Cachpole should leave no one in any doubt what these young people mean to each other.
Harry Potter will also be leaving his fiancée behind. Yes ladies it's true, Harry Potter is already off the market. His intended is of course Miss Hermione Granger, his constant companion since first year and the top student at Hogwarts. Miss Granger has expressed her desire to sit her NEWT exams, a position supported by her fiancé.
Starting on page two, read Harry's life story in his own words.
There then followed pages describing events from Privet Drive and Hogwarts. No reader could be left in any doubt that Harry Potter suffered through enough trials and tribulations to make anyone cry no more!
It certainly made Molly Weasley cry and she wouldn't be alone. Ginny though had done her crying. As powerful as it was to see the events written down like that, nothing could compare to listening as Harry told the story. She was getting ready to leave and spend the day with her friends, Harry would certainly need cheering up today. It was just a pity Rita couldn't have waited twenty four hours but then again, except for a small group of friends, no one knew what was happening tonight.
"Mum, I'll be spending the day at Hermione's. I'll also be late home, Emma's throwing an engagement party for the Grangers' muggle friends tonight. With Luna leaving on Saturday, they've rushed it through so she could be there." Her mother appeared ready to burst into a new flood of tears so Ginny quickly put her mind at rest.
"Harry and Hermione intend to hold another one when Luna comes back her holiday."
Ron had read The Prophet and felt terrible for his best friend. That he wasn't there for Harry when he had to tell the story cut him deeply. The Hogwarts stuff he pretty much knew, Ron was involved in most of it. Reading that his life with the muggles was even worse than he thought it was really hit painfully home.
Something else that also hit painfully home was hearing Ginny talk about Harry and Hermione's engagement party. This was the first he had heard of it and it certainly emphasised how much things had changed between them. His attention though was captured by a white envelope his sister placed in front of him.
"You didn't think they wouldn't want you there did you? The invitation inside is also a portkey to take you and Lavender to Hermione's." Ron's entire face lit at this news.
"You both need to be there about six before their muggle guests start arriving, and tell Lavender to leave her notebook at home."
He was happily nodding in agreement. "I won't tell Lavender about it until later. Then she'll be so busy getting ready that there won't be time for her to tell anyone about it until tomorrow. Tell them thanks Ginny, and that we'll be there."
This drew a smile from Ginny. "Now you're learning Ron, never doubt that Harry and Hermione are your friends."
Molly rose and hugged her daughter before she left. "Tell Harry and Hermione congratulations from us. If we can get the new Burrow finished in time, perhaps we could hold their other engagement party there?"
Ginny could see this was perking her mother up so went along with it. "I'll tell them mum. Even if that's not possible, a house-warming is just as good an excuse for a party." Ginny picked up her bag, she could already see her mother mentally running through the food she would serve at the party.
-oOoOo-
Hermione was showing them round her home town. She'd noticed a few people she knew from before she left for Hogwarts, some of them might even be coming to their party tonight. Hermione felt none of the apprehension she usually associated with meeting any of them, she was with Harry and their friends. Anyone trying to antagonise her now would certainly be met with a response they wouldn't expect from the normally passive bushy haired bookworm.
She led them into Pizza Hut for lunch. As well as being a new experience for the group, it would save Dobby and Winky having to cook for them. The elves had quiet enough to do with tonight's party, though Hermione had to admit they both appeared very happy with having plenty of work.
Harry waited until Hermione had ordered before speaking quietly to the group. "We're being watched, at the moment I don't know who by. I'm going to take a quick look and yes dear, I'll be very careful. Sit here and enjoy your lunch, act as normally as you can."
Harry made his way into the gents before putting Godric's training to good use. It was an invisible Harry Potter who apparated out of the restaurant toilet. The hunters were about to become the hunted.
Alastor Moody was in an alley that was a delivery entrance, he was also under an invisibility cloak as his magical eye swept the restaurant in front of him for Potter. The cold steel that pressed into the back of his neck almost had the battle hardened old auror soiling himself. He was Alastor Moody, fanatical follower of constant vigilance, nobody snuck up on him.
"Take it easy there Mad Eye, even you aren't fast enough to move before the sword of Gryffindor severs your spine. You've suffered enough injuries to know what that would mean so let's not have any accidents here. Would you care to tell me what the fuck you're doing following me about?"
Moody was in a pickle here, he knew Potter was right. The sword had pushed through his invisibility cloak and now rested between his vertebrae, one wrong move and he wouldn't be needing his peg leg any more. What really terrified Moody though was that he still couldn't detect Potter, only the voice told him who he was dealing with.
That this mere boy had him cold, and that he still couldn't see or sense a thing other than when the boy spoke really terrified him. It wouldn't do to let that show. "Potter, it's a free country. I'm perfectly entitled to stand here."
"Don't give me that shit Mad Eye, you're following me under an invisibility cloak. I warned that manipulative old bastard to leave me alone, I also warned him I would take action if he didn't."
Oh shit, this could turn ugly. Stall, stall stall, wait for an opening. "What makes you think I'm here under Dumbledore's orders?"
"Because you won't work for Fudge and I don't think you have any personal axe to grind with me. The order has no business in Crawly, the Grangers are under the protection of House Potter. I regard Dumbledore, and anyone he sends, as an enemy."
Moody felt the blade press harder into the back of his neck and thought he was done for, that was until he realised what was happening. Matilda slipped off her invisibility cloak about three feet in front of him. She spoke to the general area she knew he was.
"Mad Eye, Potter has been in that toilet for twenty minutes. Albus warned us not to let him out of our sight, do you want me to go in there and find out what's happening? These Grangers made a fool of me once, no way the muggles are getting a second chance at it."
A bolt of light shot out from behind Moody and hit Matilda on the forehead, she flipped around in a somersault and hit the ground hard.
"This is the order's last warning Mad Eye, those muggles are my family. You said you were entitled to stand here, I am entitled to protect my family and will. She's the witch who spied on them in France before stealing Hermione's letter, remind her of that when she wakes up."
Moody felt the blade withdraw from his neck but still didn't move. It was only when he saw Potter join his friends in the restaurant that he grabbed Matilda and used his portkey to get them both the hell out of there.
-oOoOo-
Albus appeared to be rushing toward the Hogwarts infirmary a lot lately, it was lucky Poppy was here for a few days getting her domain ready for the new term. He arrived to find a sobbing witch laying on a bed, Matilda was inconsolable.
"Albus, how can I show my face anywhere like this? Everyone will know what this mark is, and who gave it to me. What am I going to do about my job? I wouldn't even get past the security desk at the ministry, far less reach my department."
He didn't get a chance to answer as the staccato rhythm beat by Alastor's peg leg reverberated around the room, Albus soon had a face full of the wizened ex-auror. "Potter said he warned you to keep the order away from him, don't you think that's information we should have bloody known about? Keeping things from a schoolboy is one thing, withholding vital information from operatives on a mission is criminal Albus."
Dumbledore was shocked by this new development. "I didn't mention it because I couldn't believe the boy was serious about it."
Moody raged at his old friend. "Harry Potter now classes your order the same as Voldemort's death eaters and you didn't think it was worth mentioning? Albus, that lad is probably the most serious individual I've ever met."
Dumbledore couldn't hide his involuntary shudder. "I've always feared the boy turning dark, after what's happened today..."
Moody cut him off. "Potter's not dark, if anyone can recognise a dark wizard then it's me. The lad had me cold, he could have killed me and I wouldn't even have known who did it. He got close enough to put a blade on me, and I've still yet to see him."
Albus struggled to comprehend what his friend was telling him. "He got the drop on you?"
"Yes, and promised more of the same to anyone else we send."
Matilda was getting the distinct impression she was being forgotten about here. "What about me? How can he get away with doing this to me over some muggles?"
It was Moody who answered. "We had his family under observation, he could have done a lot worse. He also knows it was you stole his girl's letter."
The now scarred witch was incensed. "You mean I got this over some muggleborn's love letter? Surely there's a law against that? I want him punished."
Moody studied the witch now sitting on the bed before turning to speak with Dumbledore. "Is it any wonder Potter wants to leave the magical world? We're supposed to be the good guys yet spout rubbish like that. I guarantee you Potter isn't dark, I can also guarantee you he'll kill anyone who tries to harm the Grangers. Going anywhere near that girl is a death sentence, I'm glad I survived and am going to celebrate that fact by getting drunk." Moody made his way out the infirmary as Matilda once more asked her question.
"But what about me?"
Albus was forced to accept responsibility for what had happened. "Matilda, I will do my utmost to find you a cure for this. The Harry Potter I knew was not a vindictive person, I'm sure we'll come up with something. Your scar proves this is not a case of accidental magic, if it's a curse then there may be a counter for it. We will see this reversed Matilda, I'll try to get an answer as soon as possible."
It was Poppy who pointed out the obvious to the headmaster. "Albus, sending anyone from the order anywhere near Harry is madness. Only a fool pokes a sleeping dragon."
"I agree Poppy, that is why I was going to ask someone else to go. I'll try to get some answers today."
-oOoOo-
Harry and Hermione spent the evening being introduced to people he didn't know or she hadn't seen in years, they were literally having to grin and bear it. For Hermione, watching as some of the girls she went to primary school with fawned over her ring and her Harry stuck in her craw.
At least when Lavender did the exact same thing earlier, her interest and congratulations had been genuine. That the Potter family engagement ring would probably see its own article in Teen Witch Weekly was alright with Hermione, it was at least interesting and better than some of the stuff she could mention.
Their friends spent the night running interference for them. Whenever they appeared to have been cornered by particularly boring company, a rescue party would soon appear and the engaged couple could escape for now.
The only thing that kept them both going was the ear to ear smile on Emma Granger's face. Hermione understood her mother had dreamed of being able to show her real daughter to their friends, this though was so much better. Hermione sparkled, and not just because of the Potter diamonds. Facing some of her childhood tormentors with Harry at her side eased those experiences from her psyche. They were still there but no longer possessed the power to hurt. Harry thought she was beautiful and, though even she might disagree with that, his was the only opinion that mattered to her.
Dobby and Winky had the garden looking magnificent, their placement of thousands of twinkling lights added that special touch. They had also rather carelessly not hidden bits of cable, this to fool anyone looking too closely at what were in effect magical lights. These lights were also charmed to repel all flying insects, this would ensure their guests enjoyed a pest free evening and Rita couldn't show up unannounced. The entire garden glittered like an enchanted grotto in the warm August evening.
The two elves had also prepared all the food and set up a sumptuous buffet that never appeared to run out, invisible hands topping up whenever it became necessary. Dan was behind a bar though the correct bottle always appeared to find its way directly into his hand. The party was a stunning success.
That Cynthia had to be reminded to breathe when she saw the Potter diamonds was a particularly good moment for her mum, Emma Granger would have put a Cheshire cat to shame after witnessing that.
It was actually a welcome relief when Professor McGonagall appeared and asked for a private word with the couple. Hermione led them up to Harry's room for a bit of privacy, escape was the word she was thinking though.
"Harry and Hermione, I'm so sorry for interrupting your party. If I had known..."
"In all honesty professor, it's my parents' party. We just happen to be the guests of honour. We intend to have a proper party when Luna returns from her trip, and before Hogwarts starts. Watch out for your invitation."
"Thank you both for that." Minerva now felt her task was even more difficult. "A request was made of me to come here and ask a question. Is there any way that curse can be lifted on the young woman who was spying on you today? I in no way condone her actions but neither she nor Alastor knew you had specifically warned the order to stay away. Albus, in his infinite wisdom, never bothered to tell them."
That last bit was hardly a shocking revelation to any of them, Hermione couldn't hide her sarcasm. "So it's not just Harry he doesn't tell things he needs to know then?"
Minerva agreed wholeheartedly but that wasn't why she was here. "The girl works in the ministry and will be unable to work until the scar has healed. Everyone would know it came from you and the only other person to have such a scar is Voldemort. As you are well aware, people will jump to their own conclusions."
Harry's sarcasm was also pretty obvious. "It would have been nice if people had been a bit more concerned about my scar. Instead of dumping me on a doorstep and leaving me to grow up thinking I got it in the car crash that killed my mother and father."
He had to take a deep breath and remind himself that he wasn't angry with McGonagall. As usual, Dumbledore was just getting someone else to clean up his mess. "Professor, I'm sure by now Madam Pomfrey has discovered the scar can't be treated by potions or spells. The cure in fact is very simple. The person cursed has to recognise what they did wrong and be truly sorry for it. Meaningless apologies won't do, they have to change before the magic will stop and allow them to heal."
Minerva was confused, she thought this was too easy and asked for confirmation. "Harry, what did she actually do that she has to change? If you could be a bit more specific, it would help."
Harry was disappointed that he had to explain this to her when it was so obvious to them. "Professor, what would her punishment be if she spied on a pureblood home and stole their mail? I understand Mr Weasley could have had the two at the Burrow arrested?"
Minerva never got a chance to answer as Hermione beat her to it. "You were about to point out that it was a muggle home and therein lays our problem. You are undoubtedly a highly educated and well respected figure in the magical community. That you can accept there are different laws dependant on your circumstances of birth is an alien concept to us. Neither Harry nor I will ever accept that."
Harry supported his fiancée fully. "She might not have broken any current British magical laws but she certainly broke quite a few muggle ones. Magical people don't seem too bothered with those though. Until she can accept how wrong she was, and be truly sorry for it, the scar will remain."
He felt Hermione's arm slip around his waist to offer comfort and support. "People are people professor, all different yet all the same. I didn't need five years of Hogwarts to teach me that. In fact, Hogwarts promotes quite the opposite. The number of times I had to listen to pureblood nonsense being spouted and nothing was ever done to stop it, Snape actually encourages it."
Minerva could now see the scale of the problem. "Harry, you're expecting someone to change the way they think about everything. A lifetime's teachings can't be wiped out overnight. Do you think that's fair?"
Harry was shaking his head in disbelief. "I could have killed them both, and left the bodies to rot under their invisibility cloaks. Do you think that would be fairer? I told Dumbledore I now consider the order the same as death eaters, it's not my fault the old fool didn't pass on the message."
Minerva appeared horrified at this but Harry continued speaking. "I would obviously rather not kill anyone if I can help it. I'm assuming that scar will ensure the rest of the order gets the message."
The fire in his eyes and passion in his voice told Minerva everything she needed to know. Alastor had said Harry could have killed him and he wouldn't have even known who did it, she'd never seen her old fried so rattled.
"I'll pass on the message Harry. I for one am glad you didn't kill anyone."
"Professor, you don't have to look any further than Voldemort to see where hate can lead you. Hermione and I have a whole different future planed for ourselves. Please don't think I wouldn't take serious action should anyone put that future in jeopardy."
Minerva wouldn't stay and attend the party. She did take a dram from Dan to toast the happy couple, after that discussion she needed it. Minerva wondered how her news would be received back in the castle.
Harry and Hermione rejoined the party and were quickly sought out by a Ginny who was practically glowing. Both could remember the fight Ginny had put up when Hermione had suggested buying the pale green party dress she was currently wearing. The little redhead had been adamant she would never go anywhere to wear something so fine. She'd been turning the heads of the few young men who were there. She really was a beautiful girl who was changing into a stunning young woman, tonight had been an important stepping stone on that journey.
Once Ron had calmed down from the first time he'd laid eyes on his young sister, he hadn't let her out of his sight all evening. Ginny would normally have rebelled at this but tonight was a whole new experience for her. She was actually pleased to have her brother watching out for her, just as long as he knew she wouldn't put up with that when they went back to Hogwarts.
"Guys, the twins sent an engagement present for you both with Ron. It's a fireworks display to end the night. Remus and Tonks have offered to set them off and the twins promised there is nothing too elaborate in there. I've a feeling they will be going all out for your magical engagement party."
Both thought that fireworks would be the perfect way to end the evening, nothing says it's time to go home like setting off some rockets.
Ginny though wasn't quite finished. "Mum said she would love to have the party at the new Burrow. Ron just told me mum spoke to the builder today and promised an invite for him and his wife if he gets it finished in time. Ron said he's never seen a man so motivated in his life."
Both couldn't help but smile at the image that portrayed. "Tell your mum that Harry and I would love to have it at the new Burrow."
Harry added his own bit. "Tell Ron thanks for passing that on, we really appreciate it."
All three glanced over to the buffet where Ron was standing with Lavender attached, it was unspoken but understood why he didn't tell them himself.
The fireworks were spectacular, generating loads of oh's and aw's, and ending a perfect evening. Harry thought having a dragon firework that breathed flame might be a bit too much. When that flame became a heart containing the initials H and Hr, everyone burst into cheering and loud applause. The guests all just accepted that firework technology was moving at the same pace as everything else.
Emma had marvelled at the fireworks display, leaning back onto Dan while his arms had wrapped around her from behind. As she watched Harry and Hermione's initials eventually fade from the night sky, she didn't think tonight could have gone any better. That was until Cynthia Payne Smith approached her again.
"Emma dear, you simply must tell me where you got those fabulous fireworks from? They would be sensational at my Felicity's birthday party. Hermione is of course invited but I suspect she'll be back at that boarding school of hers by then."
"Yes, Hermione will be heading back to Scotland come September. Harry's actually bought a house up there to be closer to her. As to the fireworks, I'm sorry but I can't help you. Harry actually owns part of the company that makes them and they were a gift for their engagement. The two young men who design them are nothing short of geniuses."
Cynthia's nose appeared to be put even further out of joint. "Oh, so you know them then?"
"Oh yes, we just holidayed with their entire family in the South of France. That's where Harry proposed to Hermione, it was so romantic! All their friends joined us over there at some point during our holiday, the villa was always busy."
As a thoroughly disappointed and dejected Cynthia left, Dan kissed the nape of her neck. "You just took a few facts and painted a totally different picture. How can you call Harry's proposal romantic? The two of us were there and ready for bed."
"You ask our daughter if she thought it was romantic, I bet I know the answer you'll receive."
Dan had no reply to that so Emma continued. "Her delightful daughter was one of the group who tormented Hermione, you have no idea how much I enjoyed rubbing her nose in it tonight." This earned her another kiss but Emma was on a roll.
"Watching our little girl in Harry's arms, surrounded by their friends is a dream come true for me Dan. That a lot of the people who made her life difficult when she was growing up were here to see that just adds to the occasion. Our Hermione is the first of her peers to get engaged, and to a wonderful young man too. Between them they plan to quietly change the world, and I for one believe they'll do it."
She snuggled further back into her husband, "Just look at them Dan, when have you ever seen two people so in love and perfect for one another. I don't think I've been happier, or hornier. I need a big strong man to take me to bed."
Dan practically growled his answer. "I think I can arrange that. We can tidy-up in the morning."
"Or we could let Dobby and Winky handle that while we have a lie-in?"
Harry and Hermione were too busy saying goodnight to everyone, they never noticed Dan practically drag a giggling Emma into the house.
-oOoOo-
That Teen Witch Weekly was going to feature their engagement party was never in any doubt. What surprised the four people at the Granger breakfast table that Saturday morning was the entire tone of the piece. The revelations in the Prophet obviously had an effect on Lavender. She also knew Harry well enough to understand the last thing he would want was people's pity. The headline established the article's tone right from the off.
Harry Potter finds love
Like many who read the revelations on the boy who lived's life, I wept tears for the young wizard I've shared classes and a common room with for the last five years. In all this time though, I've never seen him happier than he was on Thursday evening. It was at a party held at his fiancée's parents' home to celebrate their engagement.
Events in his life may have conspired to see our saviour leave us to continue his life in another direction. We can only hope that, by the time their children are eleven, things will have changed enough to see Potters once more grace the corridors and classrooms of Hogwarts.
Hermione's eyebrows were almost disappearing into her hairline, and not just at the children comment. She couldn't believe the same girl she shared a dorm with for five years had written this. The editor was obviously pleased with their magazine's newest journalist, Lavender's article now rated her picture beside it.
Normal service was soon resumed though as Lavender went on to describe Hermione's engagement ring in minute and glowing detail. Hermione herself then received the same treatment, from her sun-lightened hairstyle to her Gucci sandals. The only part of the article that rang any alarm bells was where Lavender pointed out that the Grangers were a fairly wealthy family, both healers working and living in a large house in Crawley.
They understood what Lavender was trying to achieve here, dispel any suggestion that Hermione was only after Harry because he was one of the wealthiest wizards in Britain. While it was doubtful that Voldemort subscribed to Teen Witch Weekly, they would still rather not have any mention of the Grangers' location appearing in the press. All in all though, their reaction to the article was a positive one.
-oOoOo-
With Luna away on holiday, Neville was spending more time at home with his parents. Ginny and Ron were also press-ganged into helping as the work on the new Burrow progressed at speed. This was why Harry and Hermione found themselves walking trough Crawley, doing a bit of shopping before meeting Dan and Emma for lunch.
Not for the first time today, they bumped into some people who were at their party last night. They were standing chatting before Harry suddenly stiffened. "Hermione, we need to go. Your mum and dad are expecting us."
Hermione understood at once what was happening and grabbed his hand as the couple began running along the street. "Oh Harry no, not mum and dad."
Harry tried to reassure her without slackening their pace. "Hermione, I've got Dobby there guarding them. The wards only tickled, the little guy has probably taken some action to protect them. The building is not under attack."
She squeezed his hand in thanks and relief but still kept running, they were only about a hundred yards away.
-oOoOo-
The Granger dental practice was in the town square. It was above a shop selling teenage fashion and accessed by a different door onto the street. This door currently had the undivided attention of a disillusioned Draco Malfoy. He was on a rooftop across the square, his broom also rendered invisible. Draco was sweating under his death eater garb and a cooling charm wouldn't relieve the perspiration. The thought of returning to the dark lord and informing him the plan had failed had his stomach churning and his entire body sweating like a pig.
Crabbe and Goyle were supposed to go in there and fire off some curses, how could they mess that up? This was supposed to bring Potter and his mudblood running. Draco's job was to signal when their targets had arrived but that was beginning to look increasingly unlikely. Where was the shouting and screaming of terrorised muggles that Draco looked forward to so much?
From his position, he could actually see into one of the windows as Granger's parents did something to a fat muggle's mouth. They then shoo'd him out the door and Draco could see no sign of any panic whatsoever, watching two muggle Grangers kiss was not his idea of a good afternoon's entertainment.
Draco was getting ready to withdraw when he spotted his two targets running along the street. It was more relief than elation Draco felt as they almost collided with the leaving fat muggle before racing up the stairs. He wasn't about to take any chances, they were in the building and that was good enough for him. It was time for action, Draco lifted his sleeve and pressed the tip of his wand into his dark mark.
The sound of a dozen death eaters apparating in front of the building halted shoppers who stood and watched this strangely dressed group. In a well practiced move, the death eaters each cast the explosive curse that Wormtail had used so effectively all those years ago. They didn't aim directly at the upper story, rather concentrating their fire on the shop below. The premises, and anyone in it, were pulverised and the upper building collapsed into the large hole left behind. Wormtail cast the dark mark and then they quickly apparated out of there, leaving death and destruction behind.
Draco mounted his broom and attempted to fly closer for a better look. He now had all the screaming and panic he could ever wish for as bodies lay strewn in the square, stricken from falling masonry and flying glass. There was also unfortunately a large cloud of dust spreading out from the destruction, dust that would make Draco visible if he hung about any longer.
He wondered if Crabbe and Goyle managed to activate their portkeys before the building was destroyed? If not, then they died hero's deaths for a noble cause. Draco was forced to fly away but he wasn't too disappointed, there wasn't a cat in hell's chance of anyone who was inside that building surviving. The boy who lived had met his match. He'd made his decision that first day when he refused to shake Draco Malfoy's hand, dropping a building on him was a fitting end. Potter wanted to bury himself in the muggle world and Draco was happy to help make that wish come true.
A/N Thanks for reading
The football team I've supported for almost half a century have reached the Scottish Cup Final for only the second time in all those years. We're massive underdogs but that won't stop me and my family going to a packed Hampden Park this Saturday and shouting our lungs out. Win or lose, my posting schedule is bound to go to pot as my nerves build while our date with destiny approaches. Since my team play in Gryffindor colours and the opposition Slytherin, I'm obviously hoping the Potter influence works for us. My next post will be chapter 12 of No Hurry, just no chance of saying when that will be. I can only promise not to kill everyone off if we get beat.