Chapter 7 – A Talk with Sirius
Back at the Grangers, Harry and Hermione settled in for their last week with her parents. The time at the beach had been good, but now they had to focus on tasks for the summer. Harry's discussion with Dumbledore after the wedding still bothered him. There was definitely something more going on and he needed to know more. He had talked to Sirius as well, who said he needed to talk to Harry later. So, on their last day in Felixstowe, Harry had sent Hedwig to Sirius and arranged for him to come to dinner at the Grangers the day they got back.
Over the last days at the beach, Harry and Hermione had talked over everything that was happening and noticed a few things they hadn't correlated yet. First, their bond seemed to be settling in since they had managed to run separate errands for a couple hours apart and only felt a bit more tired than usual. Second, their magic seemed to have changed and grown. Harry's bit of spontaneous magic when he stopped Meggie from falling down the stairs was just one sign. Another example happened one morning when Harry's glasses had fallen off the night stand and he had been too asleep to look for them. Without thinking, he had cast a quick 'accio' without his wand and the glasses had zipped to his hand. Hermione had something similar when she was cooking one evening and, without thinking, summoned the salt across the kitchen. Neither of them fully understood what was happening. Was their magic growing, their skills improving, or were they somehow boosting each other? Maybe it was a combination. In addition to these events, their perceptions of each other had increased. They could now feel each other's emotions over longer distances and now would catch stray thoughts.
While these changes were all welcome, the afternoon after the wedding something else happened that put a damper on their joyful mood. Harry had been entering a shop with Hermione when his scar suddenly felt like it was being ripped open and he dropped to his knees, holding his head. He had had pains before, but nothing this bad had happened since the cemetery. Tonks had been on duty and had immediately appeared by the door, looking around for attackers as Hermione dropped to her knees next to Harry, trying to comfort him, but also feeling the pain to a lesser degree. A couple bystanders stopped as well, but Hermione passed it off as a migraine and they desisted. After a couple minutes, Harry was able to stand and stumble to an alley where Tonks quickly apparated them back to the cottage. She had called Dade and the old Auror had arrived with a couple potions to help with the after effects of the attack. They were better with the potions, but both were exhausted and decided to nap and relax in the back garden for the rest of the day. As they curled around each other, Hermione turned her head and kissed Harry's jaw as she checked on him.
"You feel better now love. Only a trace of pain left. I never understood what the scar does to you until I felt it myself. I can't imagine how you cope with it being so much worse than what I felt through you. Do you have any idea what triggered it this time? You haven't had anything except twinges all summer."
"I'm not exactly sure Mione, but whatever it was, he was very angry. I got a flash of some old house. I've never seen it before, so I assume the image came from him."
"Well, let's hope it doesn't happen again. We only have a day left of our vacation."
The next day, Harry had taken Hermione to see Miranda's Shoppe and thank the old witch for her assistance. Knowing that their story was already in the Prophet, Harry had happily introduced Hermione as his wife. The old lady was thrilled to meet her and quite astute when she complimented Hermione on her bouquet. While they were in the shop talking to Miranda, Hermione had been drawn to her small selection of books and one specifically caught her eye. The hefty tome was titled Mind Magics and included extensive training as well as case studies on occlumency, legilimency and complementary seer abilities. The price was as hefty as the book, but Harry bought it, happy to support Miranda's small shop. They had started to read the book later that day as they sprawled on the beach and they both found it fascinating. Harry had never heard of the two most common mind magics before and Hermione had read about them only in passing. That evening they each started meditation exercises as they started the work to build up their shields.
The following day they found themselves back at the Grangers' home and Harry truly felt like he was coming home. Already in the short time during the summer, the house had become home more than the Dursleys' ever was. After unpacking and starting laundry, he and Hermione grabbed drinks and headed to the back garden to talk, with her taking the lead.
"Alright love, so now that we're home, we need to decide how to use the rest of our summer. We've got about five weeks left and we leave for the Burrow in a little over a week."
"Yes, I've been thinking a fair bit on the ride home. There's a lot more going on than we're being told and I want to get to the bottom of it. I wish I could talk to Dumbledore now. I wasn't about to interrupt our wedding celebration. I do think that we should keep working on Mind Studies. I need to stop Voldemort from invading my head."
"I've been thinking about that Harry. I don't understand it, but I think the connection might go both ways. I mean, you could feel what he was feeling. I think you might have been invading him as much as he invaded you."
"Well, maybe you're right, but I don't see him being dropped to his knees in mind shattering pain. Anyway, I want to study the Mind Magics and I think we should keep up our defense studies. I wonder who will be our new DADA teacher this year? I suppose whoever it is can't be worse than Lockhart or more boring than Binns. We have OWLs this next year, so it will be important what we study. I haven't given it a lot of thought yet, but I'm sure my brilliant wife has."
"Yes love. I think the usual list: Charms, Transfiguration, DADA, Herbology, History of Magic and Potions. Also, I think Ancient Runes, maybe Astronomy. I took Arithmancy, but I'm not sure if I want to continue with that. What do you want to take?"
"I'd like to keep the same classes as you. The six main of course, which we already share. I think I'm going to drop Divination. I don't know how much help Astronomy actually is. I'm not sure about Ancient Runes, you've already taken two years of that."
"Well, I think you should try Runes Harry. They're a cornerstone of magic. There are two class levels, one that third years started and one for those that started in fourth year. I think with my help and our connection, you can get caught up with those who are only a year ahead. Of course, it means we won't have that class together, but we can still study together."
"Alright, I'm sure with you to tutor me I'll manage, but I'm definitely going to skip Astronomy if I'm busy trying to catch up on Runes. I wonder though if I'll be allowed to start a year late."
"I think with me helping you we can get Dumbledore to allow it. There's also the fact that we wear the rings of Gryffindor and Ravenclaw. I read the section on the founders in Hogwarts: A History again and we have a lot of power over the school now. We have a controlling vote, so there is basically nothing we can't do within reason. We could even name a new headmaster."
"Wow. Really? That's quite a thought. Not that I would plan on using that power, but still. So, I guess we are decided. The six basic classes and add in Ancient Runes."
"That sounds good. I'm still not sure about Arithmancy. It's hard, but I already have two years study in it. I'll think on it. At least we can be separate more now."
"Agreed, now let's try the occlumency exercises."
They spent the rest of the afternoon studying mind magics, finding the quiet garden an ideal location to meditate. Both focused on organizing their minds and erecting shields. As he organized, Harry found an image of his mind appearing as if he was floating in a sea of bubbles. Each bubble was color coded to give him an idea of what type of memories it held. He could take hold of a bubble and pull it apart to reveal multiple small bubbles inside. He grabbed a bright yellow bubble and inside found smaller bubbles inside that contained some of his happiest memories. Brightest of them all was his first soul-bond with Hermione. As he thought of her, she suddenly appeared near him, almost translucent. Then a sound broke through the silence of his bubble world.
Harry, where are we? Am I dreaming?
No love, this is my meditation. My thoughts are organizing into bubbles. I just viewed the memory of our soul-bond and was thinking of you when you appeared.
Hmm, I wonder if I can show you my meditation?
Hermione faded out and Harry waved his hand to capture all the small yellow bubbles and put them back together into the large bubble. Then he felt something pulling on him and the bubbles all gradually faded as he found himself in a large library. Hermione was there, standing at a desk with several books laid out in front of her.
Wow Mione, I should have guessed. A library is perfect for your meditation.
Indeed Harry. I'm able to organize everything quite well here. I like that we can visit each other. I wish our mind speech was better when we aren't meditating. Anyway, I should get back to filtering through a couple memories.
Harry gave her a brushing kiss and then thought back to his own memories as Hermione's library faded and he was back in his bubble world. He began to think about shields and the environment influenced his thoughts as he envisioned a large, glass bubble. Then, thinking about it, he realized glass wasn't the right idea for a shield. He looked at the crystalline structure that now encompassed him completely and suddenly thought of diamond. He focused for a minute on turning his large shield bubble into the hardest diamond. Floating toward it, he reached the surface and tapped lightly. It held solid and he decided that he had made good progress for the day. Centering his breathing, he willed himself back out to the garden. When he opened his eyes, he found Hermione was still meditating and stayed sitting, watching her. A few minutes later her eyes opened and she smiled at him.
"So love, how did it go? Got your library organized?"
"Yes. And I decided to build a wall for a shield, but as I started envisioning the stones, I realized the roof was open. So I changed my image and moved the library inside a mountain. The image seems good, but we need to have someone test our shields."
"I agree. You saw my bubble world. I kept the theme and encased it in a diamond bubble. Or that's what I envisioned."
Harry pulled her close and began kissing her deeply. She was ready to take things further as he pulled back.
Sorry love, Sirius will be here before long.
Harry?
"Wait, I didn't say that out loud did I?"
"No, but I heard you perfectly. That's the first full sentence that's come through our bond."
I love you Mione. And when my godfather leaves tonight I'm taking you upstairs to shag you senseless on every piece of furniture in the room.
Hermione giggled.
Oh really, senseless huh? There's a lot of furniture in the room, are you sure you have the stamina?
Harry leered at her.
Wow, so it seems we unlocked mind speech as part of our exercises. I wonder how?
I don't know for sure, but I think that since our subconscious minds have connected now it makes it easier. Anyway, you're right about it being almost dinner time.
Harry nodded and stood, giving her a hand up. They made their way into the kitchen, where Jean was starting a pot of couscous to go with the lamb that was in the oven. She asked Hermione to chop the vegetables, which she started to do.
"So dear, now that we're back, what are your plans for the rest of the time you're home? I'd love to say that your father and I will be around, but we can't take off much more time right now. Maybe we can manage an afternoon."
"That's fine mum, we understand. We're going to be busy working on some studying and exercises. The week off was fantastic, but it's time to get back to work."
Jean nodded and turned to Harry.
"So Harry, tell us a bit more about your godfather who'll be here in a while. I know you and Hermione explained that he was falsely accused and spent twelve years in prison. We saw him at the wedding, but he left fairly early and I never got a chance to really talk to him. He seemed to be nice enough when we were introduced, dressed quite well. How is he now? How is he handling being cleared?"
Shite! Sorry love, but how do I tell them that Sirius is still a fugitive? Should I? I mean, we agreed to be honest, but I don't want to risk him.
I understand. I think we need to tell them, but we also need to work on resolving Sirius' status. You're a lord now, even with the Ministry in the state it is, you should be able to submit pensieve memories. It's one of the things I wanted to discuss with him tonight.
Alright, so honesty, but maybe I can get an oath from your parents first. This mind speech is a big help, although you're mum is looking at us strange.
I agree on both counts love, but we better start talking out loud soon. Mum has that look.
Before Harry could speak, Jean broke the silence.
"What is up you two? You're looking at each other, but you haven't said a word."
"Jean, we agreed we could be honest and up front with you, right?"
"Of course son."
"Alright, well the first thing you need to know is that the meditation Hermione and I have been working on has unlocked a bit more of our bond. We don't need to talk out loud now."
"WHAT? Don't tell me you were just doing mind speech during that pause?"
Hermione nodded and Neil let out a low whistle while Jean paled. Eventually collected herself.
"Alright, well then I guess I'm glad we agreed to honesty. It's a bit intimidating though. So, is this normal with soul bonds?"
"Well mum, again there aren't a lot of recorded accounts, but it has been reported before."
"I see. Well, now that we've been shocked yet again, Harry can you tell us a bit more about your godfather?"
"As you know, his name is Sirius Black. Full name is Sirius Orion Black. Yes, the family was into constellations. He is the last heir to the most Ancient and Noble House of Black, one of the oldest wizarding families in Europe. He was my father's best friend, they were brothers in all but blood. You know the story of how he was wrongfully convicted and escaped and how we found the evidence that he is innocent. Now I have to tell you something else, but I have to ask on your oath to this family that what I am about to say goes no further than here."
Jean and Neil both goggled at Harry and then looked to Hermione, who was drawing her wand.
"Mum, dad, we need an oath. We'll stop talking now if you don't feel comfortable. And I'm going to put a magical bind on it. Not that I don't trust you, but this way no one else can forcibly extract information from you. Do you agree?"
"Damn, alright, this must be important. I'll agree. Jean?"
"Yes dear, I agree as well."
Hermione incanted as she began the spell weaving.
"Do you Neil Paul Granger and Jean Elizabeth Granger swear on your lives that all confidential information being divulged to you regarding Sirius Orion Black will remain only to you until you are released from this oath by Harry James Potter of Hermione Jean Potter?"
"So I swear."
"Yes, I swear."
Hermione finished the incantation as a pale light encompassed her parents for a moment.
"So mote it be."
As the light faded, Harry continued.
"Alright, thank you. Now, you need to know that Sirius has not been actually cleared of charges. He's still a fugitive in both the magical and muggle worlds. I plan on trying to resolve that soon with the Ministry, but there are no guarantees. That's why he stays in his home most of the time when he's in England."
Jean sat down on a stool while Neil rubbed his face.
"Well, that certainly will make dinner interesting. Alright son, anything else we need to know about your godfather? Unusual powers, anything like that?"
"Well, he's an animagus. He can turn into a large, black dog."
"And with that, I think it's time for some scotch." Neil announced as he made his way to the dining room bar.
Hermione looked at her mother, who still looked pale and shocked.
"Mum, are you okay?"
"Um, yes dear. Just a bit too many shocks. I understand that Sirius is innocent, but it's still difficult. So, Harry, you think you can clear him, how?"
"Well, there's a way that I can extract my memories from our confrontation with Pettigrew and the cemetery. Those memories can be placed in a pensieve to be viewed by members of the Wizengamot. Hermione thinks that now I'm a lord, I can push for a retrial."
"…extracting memories…huh…interesting" Jean mumbled, apparently confounded yet again my magic.
Hermione returned to the stove to check the pots as Neil returned with his scotch. Talk turned back to plans for studying during the week. About a half hour later, a knock sounded on the back door. Hermione went to answer it and Sirius stepped in. He greeted Hermione with a hug and then turned to his godson before being led in to meet the Grangers again.
"Sirius, I know you met briefly at the wedding, but let me make more formal introductions. Drs. Neil and Jean Granger, this is my godfather, Sirius Black. Sirius, these are my in-laws."
"A pleasure to see you again. This is a beautiful house. And really, pup, so formal?"
"Yes Harry, you know how we are about formality with family. Please, Sirius, if it's okay that I call you that? We're just Neil and Jean."
"Excellent! Yes, just Sirius please. And whatever is cooking smells fabulous."
"We're having lamb. It's almost done. You can actually thank Harry. He did the marinade on it and it looks incredible."
Harry went to check the lamb and pulled it out to rest while Neil poured a scotch for Sirius. A few minutes later the food was ready and taken to the dining room while everyone sat. The conversation over dinner was pleasant, with much of the talk focusing around the wedding ceremony. Sirius also regaled the Grangers with a few of the tamer tales of the Marauders. He was at his most charming and Hermione just smirked as her mother especially responded to the handsome rogue. With his hair cut, beard trimmed and clothes tailored to appear casual and effortless with a refined sense of wealth, Sirius was the picture of an aristocratic playboy. Once the meal was finished, they retired to the living room and talk took a more serious turn.
"Well, that was a most excellent meal. I must say pup, I didn't realize how good of a cook you are."
"Thanks Sirius."
"By the way Sirius, can I ask a personal question?"
"Certainly Neil."
"You keep calling Harry pup. He mentioned that you have an animal form, I forget what Hermione called it. Is that the reason for the nickname?"
Sirius grinned.
"Yes. I suppose now that he's legally an adult and married I should stop, but I still like it. My animagus form is a dog, thus he is my pup. Just a term of endearment. I called him that the day he was born. It was a glorious summer day. I can still remember getting the patronus from Prongs. He was so excited, I could barely understand what he said. I made it to the hospital right away, but the stubborn one here took another fifteen hours to make his appearance. They probably had to install new flooring at the hospital we did so much pacing. But then he arrived and I went back to see Lily and the baby and held him for the first time. I didn't even think about it, he was just pup from that moment."
Harry couldn't help himself as he wiped a tear. He had never heard the story of his birth before. He had no idea it had taken fifteen hours. Hermione pulled him closer as she sent him soothing thoughts. Sirius saw that Harry was upset and decided to change the tone.
"So Neil, Jean, want a animagi demonstration? It doesn't take long."
"Um, sure."
Sirius rose from his chair and stepped to the other side of the coffee table, where he immediately began to transform. Ten seconds later a large black dog stood in his place. The dog ran to the other side of the room and proceeded to pounce on Harry as he gave him a big swipe with the tongue.
"Eww. Padfoot, get off. Yuck!"
The dog ran around the room once and then stopped and Sirius transformed again. He was chuckling as Harry cast a scourgify on himself.
"Wow, that was certainly impressive."
"Thank you. Took us nearly three years to perfect the transformation. So, speaking of studies, how are your summer studies going you two?"
"Well we have all our homework done. We've been doing some additional work on defense and we also found a good book on mind magics that we've been studying."
"Yes, we've been working on meditation to help with occlumency. After that we'll move to legilimency, although right now it seems more important to block our thoughts, especially for Harry. As an interesting part of the meditation, we were able to communicate with each other while meditating. We figured that, even though Voldemort has been quiet for now, we know he's busy building up forces and we need to do what we can to start preparing."
"Especially since he seems to be focused on me. I know I somehow defeated him as a baby, but there is some reason he keeps targeting me. And I think Dumbledore knows more than he lets on. I plan on having a serious discussion with the headmaster soon."
"About that Harry, that's part of the reason I wanted to talk to you. Hold on a moment."
Sirius stood up and cast around the room. Harry recognized most of the spells he cast. A couple were detection charms and then an enchantment marker. Once he seemed satisfied, Sirius cast several privacy shields around the room. Jean was looking concerned once again at the level of security he felt was necessary.
"Alright pup, now that I know no one is listening in, we need to talk. I assume you don't mind if Neil and Jean are here?"
"No Sirius. We're family."
"I understand. You deserve to have a good family. Unfortunately I have not been able to be that for you as I wished. Alright, so to begin, you are correct that Dumbledore knows more than he says. He feels he is orchestrating everything for the light, but he is still just a man and he is not infallible. I don't agree with him on several points and I am here to rectify that. He has an organization called the Order of the Phoenix. It's a covert underground group with members hidden throughout the Ministry and in business. Our goal is to gather information and on occasion take small actions to neutralize certain individuals within Voldemort's ranks. I was part of the Order back during the first war and have taken up the cause again as much as possible given my current status. Dumbledore requires all of us to take a magically binding oath to the Order. This means that we normally cannot divulge information to those outside the Order. Except that in your case, I took an oath to you as your godfather before I took my oath to the Order. That means my oath to you takes precedent. I would prefer though that you not reveal that you know what I am about to tell you. At least for a while. Dumbledore still feels you are too young. Obviously I disagree."
"I understand Sirius."
"Alright, the first thing I need to explain is where I've been for the past couple months. Moony and I have been travelling on the continent trying to enlist support against Voldemort. Moony has been working within the werewolf populations. During the first war Voldemort enlisted many werewolves under his banner with the promise of fairness and equality if he took power. I don't know how they can be stupid enough to believe that, but it's not like our side has been very good to them. Anyway, we travelled together to France and then separated and moved on from there. My task was to use my fugitive status and natural charisma to build friendships within certain criminal elements. Nothing too extreme, but having operatives among small time crooks and con artists can prove useful. Now I'm back and confined in my house most of the time. Dumbledore would prefer I wasn't here and that I didn't leave for the wedding either, but he knows when not to push my limits. I missed fourteen years with you and I want to do what I can to help, even if it's not much."
Sirius paused to sip his drink and Jean spoke up.
"Sirius, you mentioned Moony, who is that, he's a werewolf? Hermione told us she had a teacher who was a werewolf. A man who was quite kind except for a few days out of the month. She said there's a potion to control it? I'm sorry, but to us werewolves are myth. Are there a lot of them?"
"Perhaps I need to explain more mum. Moony is the nickname for Remus Lupin. Much like Sirius' nickname is Padfoot because he turns into a dog and Harry's dad James was Prongs because his form was a stag. Werewolves are not myth, they are people afflicted with an incurable disease called lycanthropy. The disease is transmitted by being bit by a werewolf when they are transformed during the time of a full moon. Moony was bitten as a young boy. He attended Hogwarts thanks to Dumbledore, who implemented special safeguards for the few days out of the month that he was in the process of transforming. The actual transformation is for a day, but the couple days leading up to and out of the full moon cause werewolves to be quite temperamental. There is a potion, the wolfsbane, that lessens the impact of the transformation, making them less dangerous and unable to transmit the affliction. They still need to remain away from others during that time, but they are safer. Moony is a good man who is forced to live destitute, often taking menial jobs in the muggle world due to the fact that he gets sick for a few days out of the month. There is a lot of prejudice. If the Ministry would help them more and treat them decent, so many wouldn't be tempted to go to the other side."
"Excellent synopsis Hermione. Really pup, I don't know how you managed to bond to brains and beauty. Of course, I said the same to your father. Anyway, so now you know where I've been. I would have preferred to be back home where I could spend time with you, but obviously you've been in good hands. Now, we need to talk about Dumbledore. As Hermione mentioned, he was a good friend to Remus and allowed him an education where others would not. He has done many great things for our world, but I do not follow him blindly. I believe he has woven a web of deceit that he feels is for the greater good and I think his web has become snarled. For one thing, he should never have put you with the Dursleys, blood protection or not. I remember Lily talking about her sister and the oaf she married. She would have been furious to know that you were imprisoned with them for ten years. And trust me, your mother was one you didn't want to make angry. Brilliant, beautiful for sure and positively scary in her abilities if you got on the wrong side of her."
Harry chuckled and shot a look at Hermione. Sirius and the Grangers caught it and laughed.
"So the question I imagine you must have is why Dumbledore is so interested in you? Yes you defeated Voldemort once, but you could barely walk yet. Why keep protecting you? What can you offer that could defeat the greatest dark wizard of all time? This is something that has plagued me every night as I remember visiting your parents' house right after the attack. Dumbledore keeps things to himself, but in the last Order meeting he let something go. It's not much, but I think it may be the clue. Apparently there was a prophecy given shortly before you were born that marks you as the one to destroy Voldemort. I don't know the details, but apparently Voldemort heard part of the prophecy, but only part. Now he is trying to find the rest in case it holds more details. The prophecy is housed in the Department of Mysteries and the Order is now regularly guarding the hallway leading to it. I wish he would tell us more, but that is all I have for now. I know it's not the best news, but it should give you something to go on."
"A prophecy, like in Divination that Trelawney teaches? That's what made Voldemort attack when I was a baby? But Trelawney's a quack!"
"Perhaps, I don't know her. I do know that seer abilities are very real and very rare. Most people think it is quackery because many claim to have the abilities that only a few actually do. True seers are some of the most magical and most dangerous people. The legends say only one seer is born for every hundred years, but that may be an exaggeration."
Everyone was quiet for a moment, contemplating everything until Hermione broke the silence.
"Alright, so we know why Dumbledore thinks Harry is important. But what else is he up to and what is Voldemort up to?"
"Two very important questions my dear. For now I would recommend to keep on the path you are. Study defense and occlumency. Voldemort is known for breaking people through their minds. I would like to spend some time with you as well. Molly said you were due to come to the Burrow in a week, but the plan has been changed. She sent a letter, but I probably got here before the owl. There have been some vague threats and she and Arthur decided the Burrow needed it's wards strengthened. Until that happens, they've joined a couple other Order members staying at my ancestral home. The place needs a bit of work, but it does have lots of space. My movements are restricted, but if you join the others we'll have some time together. And, not to worry, the two of you will have your own room."
Harry and Hermione both blushed at the knowing look Sirius gave them.
So love, what do you think? Are you okay with going to Black Manor in a week?
As long as I'm with you, I'm fine. And it will be nice to see the others.
"Alright Sirius, we're in agreement with going ahead with our planned departure in a week, but with a different destination. Is that alright Neil and Jean?"
The Grangers both nodded while Sirius looked at Harry curiously.
"Pup, you said you were in agreement? What do you mean? You didn't ask Hermione."
"Well, actually I did. Our recent mind magic meditation techniques have pushed our bond further. We can manage mind speech between us now."
"Really? Bloody brilliant! Oops, sorry Neil and Jean. Anyway, that's a fantastic development. Build up your shields and you'll have a definite advantage there. It will be great to have you at the old house. I much prefer it full of people. When I was there all alone with just Buckbeak, I'm afraid I got a bit morose."
"Buckbeak?"
"Yes mum, Buckbeak is the hippogriff I told you about that we freed Sirius with. Half eagle, half horse."
Jean just nodded, while Neil chuckled.
"I'd like to see some of these creatures sometime. The stuff of legends come to life."
"Well, unfortunately we have bigger problems than magical creatures, but the Order is working on trying to stay a step ahead of the Death Eaters. Of course, if the Ministry would acknowledge that Voldemort is back, it would help."
"Speaking of the Ministry Sirius, there's something else I wanted to discuss. Now that I've taken my title, Hermione says I can submit evidence to the Wizengamot for you. They wouldn't listen to me as an underage student, but now I think I'm going to try to push for a pensieve review of my memories and get you cleared. I think I'll also arrange a viewing of what happened in the cemetery."
"Really pup? If you can manage, that would be fantastic. The Ministry has been more bull headed than usual lately though. Still, as a lord you might be able to force it. Tell you what, work on your shields for another week and we'll discuss it then. Now, I have to thank you Neil and Jean for a wonderful evening, but my curfew is almost up. If I miss it, the Order will be out to find me. I'll see you and the missus in a week pup."
Harry rolled his eyes at his godfather's teasing and stood to give him a hug. Sirius shook the Grangers' hands and then hugged Hermione as well before stepping into the backyard to apparate. Once he had left, Harry turned back to Hermione and pulled her into his arms.
"Well, he certainly gave us a lot to ponder."
"Indeed."
Chapter 8 – Confronting Dumbledore
The following week at the Granger house was spent with Harry and Hermione studying and practicing physical defense, as well as spending a couple hours a day working on meditation exercises. They worked to strengthen their shields, but still weren't sure just how well they were doing since they hadn't been tested yet. They also worked on legilimency and thought they were making progress since they were able to pick up more surface thoughts around them. Still, they never wanted to delve too deep and had no one else magical around to really judge by. They did find that being in a public place such as the market and opening their legilimency was quite distracting with dozens of people's scattered surface thoughts bombarding them. They both made a point to perform the test at different times and work on sorting and managing the effect.
The Grangers were busy most days at the office, leaving the young couple to themselves to study and run an occasional errand in the neighborhood with an Auror escort. On Friday, Neil and Jean managed to clear their schedule in the afternoon to spend time with Harry and Hermione before they left the following day. They decided to go to a local folk arts and music festival in a neighboring town. The day was perfect weather and they enjoyed the time to relax and temporarily forget about the worries of the magical world. As they walked across a parking lot to prepare to leave, they passed a young couple who were having an argument. Although Harry couldn't hear what was being said, it was impossible not to pick up the feelings being broadcast. Worst of all he felt a palpable wave of fear from the young woman. When Hermione grabbed his arm, he knew she felt it as well. Deciding to try something that he wasn't sure about, but felt he had to do, Harry pushed his mind toward the man. He found only basic natural shields and pushed past them quite quickly. Inside the young man's mind, he found a great deal of hatred, as well as some kind of substance addiction. Unsure how to deal with it all, he pulled Hermione in with him and together they projected feelings of love and acceptance, as well as a sense of protection toward the woman. They were unsure if what they were doing was correct, or even legal, but the argument seemed to suddenly cease and the man stopped and knelt down to embrace the woman. Knowing they had done all they could, Harry and Hermione turned back to join her parents, who were watching.
Well that was interesting love. I don't know how long it will last, but at least I feel we made a bit of a difference.
I hope so. I don't know if that was legal, but he was so open that I felt I didn't have a choice. Thanks for helping me.
Jean raised an eyebrow at them as they got in the car.
"Um, did you two do something back there?"
"Yes mum, a bit of mind magics work. The man was projecting and quite open. Harry initiated it and then brought me in. We calmed him for now. I don't know how long it will last. There are a lot of layers to that couple's problems. Still, it feels good to do what we can. It's a new aspect to magic for me."
"I really wouldn't have forced myself in if the man had tighter shields and wasn't broadcasting so loud."
"I'm sure son. It's just another amazing facet of your skills."
They arrived home that evening and had a quiet dinner before heading upstairs to finish packing to leave the next morning. Harry had so much more than when he had arrived at the beginning of summer that he had to use a suitcase in addition to his trunk and decided that both he and Hermione could stand to get new trunks with more space. Once they had everything gathered, they curled up in bed and talked for a few minutes before beginning to kiss and fondle each other. It didn't take long for their skimpy summer sleeping outfits to be scattered around the room as Harry spread his wife's legs and dipped his head down to begin pleasuring her. They each opened their minds to each other and slowly let themselves merge mentally as he brought her close to her peak. This was something they had been working on throughout the week and this night they seemed to reach a perfect merge as Harry was able to feel every nuance as Hermione approached her climax. When he sensed her on the edge, he pulled his tongue out of her and moved up her body as he thrust his erection solidly into her. Looking in her eyes and with their minds merged, they each felt the other's bliss as Harry set a steady pace that Hermione met. When they climaxed together minutes later, they felt their own orgasms as well as each other in a reverberating cycle back and forth. Harry didn't soften immediately as he kept up his rhythm and drove them both to a second peak. Making love while completely open in mind, body and soul was an even more amazingly profound experience than they had ever had and both collapsed and passed out still joined together. At some point while they slept, Harry slipped out of his love, but they stayed entwined together until the alarm summoned them the following morning. When they awoke, the memories of their merge caused both to grin foolishly at each other.
That was the most incredible feeling last night. I love you so much Mione.
Yes my love. I didn't think you could give me more joy than you have already, but that was beyond. Definitely a new level to our bond.
They kissed for a couple minutes, but then regretfully pulled apart due to their time schedule. They arrived downstairs forty minutes later and enjoyed a last breakfast with the Grangers for a while. They promised to send Hedwig with notes and Neil and Jean promised to come visit as Sirius had suggested. As they were all hugging, Sirius arrived in the backyard, ready to side along apparate them to his home. The Aurors had been notified already and Tonks wished them well before they left. The apparition went smoothly with the three of them and their luggage all landing in an alley along a residential street of large townhomes. They appeared to be in a prosperous London muggle neighborhood. As they looked around, Sirius turned and looked at both of them.
"My home is under the Fidelius charm. I'm the secret keeper and no one can see the house unless I tell them where it is. The manor of the most Ancient and Noble House of Black is at number 12, Grimmauld Place, London."
As Sirius said the words, Harry looked up and saw something amazing. Between two of the townhouses that had been in front of them, another was pushing its way between them, causing the others to move to the side. Harry and Hermione were still adjusting as Sirius grabbed a suitcase and Crookshanks' carrier and gestured for them to follow him. They reached the front stoop and Sirius led them into a dark paneled foyer and entry hall of what had most likely once been a grand home. Unfortunately, the house had seen better days and the place was in need of a good bit of remodeling and cleaning. Sirius waved the door shut behind them and welcomed them in.
"Welcome! I know the place doesn't look like much, but it has plenty of space and it's about as secure as we can get. I plan on redecorating soon as well. Now your room…"
Sirius was unable to continue as what sounded like a herd of elephants came down the stairs. Looking up, they saw the four youngest Weasleys charging down, yelling greetings at them. Then another voice broke through the chaos.
"BLOOD TRAITORS AND MUDBLOODS BESMIRCHING THE HOUSE OF BLACK! LEAVE MY SIGH…"
The tirade was cut off suddenly by Sirius who had cast a silencing spell on a large portrait of an angry woman that hung over the stairs.
"Uh, sorry about that. May I introduce my dear mum, Walburga Black. Unfortunately we haven't figured out how to unstick her portrait yet. The spell will last for a couple hours. It's best to remain quiet in the hallway if you can."
The Weasleys had reached Harry and Hermione and were passing out hugs and backslaps. Then Molly Weasley came in from the kitchen.
"Ah, welcome dears! I heard you met Walburga. It's so good to have you here. I wish we could be at the Burrow, but right now it's safest here. Ronald, why don't you show the Potters to their room."
Ron nodded and reached to grab a suitcase as he waved for them to follow. Sirius put a hand on Harry's shoulder and smiled at him.
"Go ahead and get settled in. I'll be up in a few minutes and we can talk."
Ron led them up to the third floor and showed them into a large bedroom with an attached bath. The room looked cleaner and brighter than the hallways had and was decorated in Gryffindor colors. Harry knew that Sirius must have redecorated it recently. Ron left them to unpack and the first thing Hermione did was let Crookshanks out. The cat immediately sniffed the air and then darted out the door to start exploring. Just as they were opening their trunks, a tapping on the window alerted them to Hedwig's arrival. Harry grinned and went to let her in as he set her cage on top of a dresser.
"Hey girl. Excellent timing as always."
Hedwig preened at the praise and the head scratches Harry offered her. He turned back and joined Hermione with the unpacking. They were almost done when Sirius arrived in the doorway.
"Hey! You left the door open, so I guess I can come in? I see you're almost unpacked. How do you like the room?"
"It's excellent, thanks Sirius."
"Glad you like it. I decided to start up here with banishing the snakes and all the Slytherin green. Not that I won't have some green around, but there are other colors. Ginny already has ideas on some of the redecorating. I'll warn you, don't get her started on the subject. I'm tempted though to hand her a bag of galleons and tell her to have fun. She does seem to have an eye for it and anything would be an improvement."
"So Sirius, how long has this been your family home? Is this where you grew up?"
"Yes, primarily. We had a summer place near Puddlemere. A bit of farmland and plenty of space for boys to get in trouble. Those are my best memories. The few weeks each summer we spent there. Most of the time we were here in the city, where my father had his businesses. The house has been in the family for around 240 years. As you can tell by my mother's warm welcome downstairs, it wasn't always a happy home. My parents were from the true old pureblood stock, complete with a long list of rules and expectations. As soon as I sorted into Gryffindor, I failed them completely. I came home for a couple weeks each summer and then fled to the Potters' as soon as possible. When I was sixteen I gave up completely and never returned."
"Wow. I guess I can understand why staying here is so hard then. Maybe once things are secure, you can come to the Potter estate. I'm told it's called Druimoor. I haven't been there yet."
"Well, you are in for a treat. Druimoor is spectacular. The countryside around Exmoor is truly beautiful. Your grandparents always planned for James and Lily to live there with their children. There's room for several generations. Unfortunately, they decided to pick an unknown spot in Godric's Hollow when they went into hiding. I know you're still young, but some day I'd love to see you take the place back. Do you know if the house elves are still caring for it?"
"No. Our account manager said they both had passed. They were apparently quite old. I'd love to see the place."
"I understand pup, but I'm sure it's under regular surveillance by Death Eaters. I know this old house is nothing in comparison, but I prefer to keep you alive and safe. My family's dark leanings do have the side effect of having provided layers of protections and wards through the centuries. It's what makes the place a perfect headquarters for the Order. By the way, there is a full Order meeting tonight. Molly usually banishes the children upstairs. The twins have a listening device that they used for a few days, but she figured out how to block it. Dumbledore will be leading it of course and usually arrives a few minutes before. Did you plan on talking to him right away?"
What do you think love? Too soon?
No Harry, I think the sooner the better. You need to catch him off guard. You've been thinking about what to ask him for weeks now.
"Sirius, we think we may try to catch Dumbledore right away and catch him off guard. Also, can we attend the Order meeting? Will we need to take an oath?"
"Sounds good. As for attending, you'll have to take that up with the old man. I'm sure Molly will pitch a fit. She didn't let the twins join, despite them having just come of age."
"Well, I love Molly and all she's done for me, but I'm a legally married adult now. She has to cut loose at some point."
Sirius snorted and rolled his eyes.
"Anyway, on to more realistic topics. How is your defense training going?"
Harry looked to Hermione and gave her a nod to join in.
"Overall defense is about the same as a week ago. It's hard to practice and not destroy dad's shop. The dummies we built out of pipes and old junk are fairly destroyed and beyond repair. We think we're doing well with the mind magics, but we can't know for sure until our shields get tested and we find someone to test against. Even though we can do magic now outside school, we've been limited by being in a muggle environment."
"I understand and have some good news for you. One of the few areas where my father and I were able to work together was defense training. He felt it was a good activity to channel the energies of young boys and we have an arena in the basement, including magical training dummies. Reg and I beat them up badly and they still repaired after, so you can give them a go. As for the mind magics testing, I've never been much of an Legilimens. You may hate the idea, but Snape will be here tonight. I'd pick him or Dumbledore to test you. I am better at Occlumency. It's a good skill to develop in prison. If you want to give my shields a go, feel free."
Harry and Hermione traded a look before Harry turned back to his godfather.
"Are you sure Sirius? Also, who's Reg?"
Sirius let out a barking laugh.
"I keep forgetting how much I need to tell you. We have a lot of catching up. Reg was my brother. Two years younger than me. Regulus Arcturus Black. Younger and Blacker than me by far, he was my parents' favorite. Sorted into Slytherin before the hat ever settled onto his head. He was everything I refused to be. Despite that, in our younger years we were quite close. Perhaps it was growing up in this old house with just ourselves and our warring parents. He chose to follow the Dark Lord and then tried to second guess the decision. He died during the first war. My parents actually had disowned me when I ran off to live at the Potters', but when they passed suddenly not long before Reg, they never modified their wills and their black sheep became Lord Black. I find it ironic as hell. Anyway, enough strolling down memory lane. Give my shields a go and see what you can find for yourself."
Harry nodded and took a deep breath as he centered himself, feeling for his internal well of magic. Settling into his own thoughts, he pushed out toward his godfather and immediately hit a wall. Focusing, he reached deeper and pulled on his magic harder than he ever had in his exercises. Then he pushed forward at the wall and felt it crumble. Suddenly he was engulfed in memories of two boys running down the stairs he had climbed just a short while ago, a house elf in tow. Next, a memory of a quiet and very formal dinner in the dining room he had glimpsed briefly downstairs. A few more memories flashed by, but they became hazy as he felt himself being pushed back. Drawing again, he fought to delve deeper. Then he reached for Hermione and pulled her in with him. Between them they crashed into the deepest levels of Sirius' mind and the hardened wizard dropped to his knees, screaming and holding his head. Realizing what he had done, Harry pulled back quickly, but carefully. He felt Hermione separate from him and then his eyes came into focus as he saw Hermione cross the room to Sirius and lay her fingers on his temples.
Harry, help me. We haven't practiced that and we went a bit far. We need to ease him. I know the theory, but have never tried this.
Harry focused again and joined Hermione. This time he let her lead as they sent calming waves into Sirius while he did what he could to carefully put the pieces of the shield back up. It was still fragmented, but Sirius could repair it easier now. This time when he and Hermione separated their minds, they saw a smile on Sirius' face. They were both tired from the efforts, but Harry was relieved that there didn't appear to be any lasting damage.
"Sirius, we're sorry about that. We still need to practice. We have a lot of theory, but have never done that before. I decided to see how far I could go if we came in together. I went too far and I am truly sorry."
"Apology accepted, but not needed pup. I put up my strongest shields to challenge you. You broke past them on your own and even managed to fight me when I pushed back. What you need to understand is that there are different levels to each person's psyche. I'm no expert, but a basic explanation is that you can go through a number of layers until you reach a person's core. Most Legilimens never go that deep. If you reach the core, the deepest essence of a person, you can cause them permanent damage. You and Hermione have a bond that lets you pool your power and you touched my core. I thank you for pulling back immediately. I think you could actually reach that level on many people all on your own. You're quite powerful pup, but the two of you together are positively scary."
Despite Sirius' roguish grin, Harry shuddered at the idea of what he could have done. He definitely needed to train and refine his skills. Hermione felt his concern and wrapped her arms around him as she kissed his jaw. Her attentions distracted him and he turned to kiss her full on. The kiss got a bit carried away until Sirius began to chuckle.
"Alright, I can take a hint. Should I cast the silencing charm on the way out?"
Hermione pulled back from Harry and tried to scowl at Sirius, but found herself laughing at the look he was giving them.
"Never mind Sirius, Harry and I will continue this later. Let's go down and see everyone else."
Harry and Hermione spent the rest of the day catching up with their friends. They had seen them at the wedding, but had been too involved with the celebration to talk at length with the Weasleys. They didn't make any comments about their plans for evening when the Order arrived, figuring that they needed to catch everyone off guard. The meeting was planned for after dinner, with some of the Order arriving for the meal. Much to everyone's surprise, Luna Lovegood and her father Xenophilius arrived shortly before dinner. Harry and Hermione had seen Luna in the halls at school, but did not know her. The Weasleys on the other hand knew the Lovegoods better, as they lived over the hill from the Burrow. Luna was in Ginny's year, so Ginny knew her the best. Also joining them for dinner was Remus Lupin, Kingsley Shacklebolt and Nymphadora Tonks, who entertained the table with her metamorph tricks. The meal was delicious as usual with Molly cooking, and Harry reveled in the frenetic family atmosphere. The Lovegoods were more than a bit odd, but Luna seemed quite nice and she and Ginny got along well. She was also quite pretty in a somewhat ethereal way. Harry caught Ron more than once staring at the blond Ravenclaw. Once everyone was well stuffed, Molly assigned cleanup duties and informed everyone not in the Order that they needed to head upstairs, including the Potters in her sweeping gaze. Harry took a breath and prepared himself for his reckoning with Molly Weasley.
Alright, here we go love.
Right here with you.
"Actually Molly, Hermione and I need to speak with Dumbledore and we'd like to participate in the meeting now that we're of age."
"What? No! You're too young, technicalities or not."
"Sorry Molly, but we're old enough to be married and I'm old enough to take control of my house and all its associated businesses. I am within my rights."
"Sirius, you're his godfather, talk some sense into the boy!"
"Molly, he is a boy no longer. Perhaps I could have wished for more of a childhood for him, but that was not the case. I agree with his decision."
Molly harrumphed and turned back toward the kitchen, clearly still not happy. When she returned and found Ron and Ginny still in the room talking to Harry and Hermione, she chose a new target.
"Alright, I may not be able to say anything about the Potters, but you two are mine and I order you upstairs now!"
Ron groaned and Ginny looked like she was going to blow a gasket until Luna took her by an arm and led her out of the room. Deciding to get clear of Molly, Harry took Hermione's hand and left for the living room, where the early arrivals had gathered after dinner. A few minutes later, Dumbledore arrived at around ten minutes to eight. He was about to settle in to wait for the others, when Harry stood and walked over to him.
"Professor, Hermione and I would like to talk to you in private before the meeting. Perhaps in the library."
Dumbledore was a bit taken aback by Harry's approach, as he calmed his mind and schooled his expression while also trying to project a firm confidence toward the headmaster. Judging by the old man's slightly raised eyebrows, he was glad to have at least partially succeeded.
"Alright Harry, we have a couple minutes. Lead the way."
Harry took Hermione's hand and strode out of the room, not noticing the questioning looks they left behind. When the three of them reached the library, Hermione closed the door and cast privacy charms. This also seemed to alert Dumbledore, but he waited patiently for Harry to begin.
"Professor, there are a number of items I wish to discuss with you. I know you and others still consider us young, but we are legal adults now and more mature than many our age. I ask that you keep this in mind when I present my questions. Hermione and I have been studying a lot over the summer, primarily working on defense since it seems obvious that I will need to face Voldemort and his Death Eaters in the future. The question that has been on my mind for several years is a simple one. Why me? I know that I am above average in talent, but certainly there are others of similar abilities. It has come to my attention that you have information that has been withheld from me due to my age. Specifically, information regarding a prophecy that Voldemort seems to lay stake in. I ask now for full disclosure from you. I'm old enough to know why I have been targeted. I have much more at stake now that Hermione and I have bonded."
Dumbledore let out a small sigh and went to take a seat. He carefully schooled himself, still a bit shocked by the line of questioning. He was hoping to have a couple years yet to put a few things in place and let Harry grow up. How had he found out about the prophecy? Despite his bonding, he was still so young. Harry had taken a seat across from him and pulled Hermione into his lap. The look on the young man's face was determined and Dumbledore realized that he had grown up quite a bit over the summer. Still, this didn't seem like the right time yet. After a minute of contemplation, he had his thoughts aligned enough to form a reply.
"Harry, I appreciate the reasons for your questions, but I ask that you be patient with me. There are still preparations to be put in place and I don't believe you should be put under the full burden of what you ask yet."
"Full burden? How much more of a burden do I need? I've faced Voldemort four times now. Has anyone other than yourself in the Order faced him as often as I have? How much of a burden was I under at the Dursleys as they used me as their slave while abusing and starving me for years?"
Harry was beginning to get angry and Hermione could feel his control slipping as she gently tried to calm him as Dumbledore continued.
"Come now Harry, I know your relatives were not the most ideal, but I think you exaggerate a bit. They took you in and cared for you for…"
Harry couldn't believe it. The old man really didn't have a clue. He supposedly had people watching him at the Dursleys. Were they really that blind? Yet Dumbledore still sat in front of him, trying to project a sense of calm with his grandfatherly half smile. That more than anything tipped Harry over the edge. He had meant to bring up the topic of mind magics next, but now he decided to force the subject forward. He felt Dumbledore gently probing him, trying to gauge Harry's feelings. Harry pushed him back easily from his shields and then closed his eyes briefly to center himself as he pushed farther, hitting Dumbledore's shields as he gathered his magic and pushed forward. The shields were quite strong, but his anger drove him and drew on all his magic to break through. Once he had conquered them, Harry didn't rifle through Dumbledore's thoughts. Instead he pushed his own memories into Dumbledore's consciousness. This was something he had only done a bit with Hermione. Now he showed the old man his first conscious memory at the age of not quite four when his uncle took a switch to him for breaking a glass while doing the dishes. Next he showed him the dusty cupboard that had been his room for most of his childhood. He flashed on through memories of being awakened early in the morning to cook for the family and then being sent away with a single piece of toast for himself. He showed himself arriving at school wearing clothes that were ten sizes too big and being teased relentlessly to the point that he somehow magically transported himself to the school roof. The memories went on, all the way to the madness that Uncle Vernon displayed when his Hogwarts' letters began to arrive. As each successive memory sank into Dumbledore, his face sagged as his eyes showed realization for the first time. Finally he pulled out and left Dumbledore sitting speechless before him. It took a few minutes before he spoke again.
"Gods Harry. I'm sorry. I should have known. Do you realize what you just did?"
"Yes sir. It's called Legilimency. As part of our defense studies, Hermione and I have been working on mind magics this summer. I think we're making good progress, but we haven't had a chance to really test ourselves."
"Harry, the last person to break my shields was Voldemort when we fought during the first war, not long before your parents were killed. Even then he only broke them for a few seconds before I put them back up. No one has done what you did since I was a young man. I will have quite a headache for a while."
Hermione got up off Harry's lap and went to the headmaster. Putting her fingers on his temples, she gently massaged both physically and mentally as she had been practicing. She felt some of the old man's shields starting to rebuild as he let out a small sigh before looking up at her with surprise.
"Thank you Hermione. I see you have also been busy studying this summer. Tell me, were you in the merge when Harry broke through my shields?"
"Only on the periphery. Harry didn't draw on my power, although he could have if he needed to go further."
"Further? Well, I thank you for not doing so. I don't think I could have handled that. So does that mean that you can pool your magics as I suspected you might someday be able to do when you bonded?"
"Yes, although we are still refining the technique."
"So professor, now that you know what we've been working on and you better understand what I've been through, do you really consider me too young to know my own destiny?"
A silence enveloped the room for a couple more minutes before Dumbledore shook his head and replied.
"I suppose not Harry, but I warn you this will be quite difficult. I also ask that after I tell you this you guard the knowledge carefully. A year before you were born I met with an individual who was applying to be the Divination professor at Hogwarts. I was skeptical of this person, but she was the great-granddaughter of a noted seer, so I gave her a chance. The interview was not going well and I was about to leave when she slipped into a trance and actually delivered a true prophecy. This is what she told me:
The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches... born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies... and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not... and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives... the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies..."
Dumbledore let his words trail off as he watched Harry and Hermione absorb the words. Hermione sagged at first and then her face hardened as her resolve returned. She was still thinking as Harry finally responded.
"So the prophecy means me? I have to die to kill Voldemort. Are you certain?"
"As best I can tell Harry, unfortunately yes. Of course, this seer has only given the one confirmed prophecy and I certainly hope to find a way to defeat it. It mentions three ways to identify the one who will vanquish him. First, the parents must have thrice defied him. That applies to your parents and one other couple. Second, being born as the seventh month dies. Your birthday of course is the 31st. The other couple who the first qualifier applies to had a son as well, born one day before you. It is the third qualifier that narrows the list from two to one. He will mark him as his equal. Voldemort fulfilled that part of the prophecy when he gave you the scar. He picked which baby would grow up to try to vanquish him."
"July 30th, a day before Harry, that's Neville's birthday!"
"Indeed Hermione. Frank and Alice Longbottom were in the Order of the Phoenix during the first war and they were the others who defied the Dark Lord thrice. But Voldemort picked Harry for whatever reasons he decided that he was the more likely candidate to fulfill the prophecy."
"But how did he learn about the prophecy. Did the seer tell him?"
"No Harry, I don't think Trelawney would. And if my timelines are correct, I believe she has been employed at Hogwarts since you were a baby. Professor, is that why you keep her around?"
Dumbledore nodded his head.
"Right on all counts yet again Hermione. I know many doubt her skills, but for the sheer fact that she gave this one prophecy, I find it necessary to keep her close. While Divination cannot truly be taught, my hope is that the class at least introduces the basics so that students may be somewhat familiar with the art and perchance we may find a true seer someday. As for how the Dark Lord found out, there was a spy in the inn when I was conducting the interview. Fortunately the spy heard only half the prophecy, leaving Voldemort with only a half truth."
"So the prophecy is why my parents were targeted? They were killed because of me?"
"No Harry, they were killed because an evil madman is seeking to take control of the wizarding world."
The room grew quiet again as Harry struggled with the new truth and Hermione did her best to comfort him. As she spoke to him in his mind, something else occurred to him and his eyes flew open.
"Professor! My bond with Hermione. What happens to her if I die?"
"I can't say for certain Harry. Soul bonds are so rare. I would imagine your death would prove fatal for her as well. The few instances that have been recorded indicate that is the case."
Harry felt a numbing grief wash over him. If it was just him he would gladly sacrifice himself to rid the world of Voldemort, but to take Hermione with him? How could he ask that? But how could he let Voldemort continue? He pulled Hermione tight in his lap and began to rock them. Dumbledore looked on with a pained expression, wishing he could comfort them, but understanding there was no way he could truly know what their bond meant. Eventually it was Hermione who sat up and took hold of Harry's face, looking deep in his eyes and speaking out loud.
"Harry James Potter! You snap out of this right now! This prophecy is just one potential future. We will find a way around this. I always said Trelawney was a quack. Maybe she isn't completely, but one prophecy in a lifetime does not make her word law. We have more information than we did before and now we will work on a solution. I will not let you die, at least not for a good many years."
Harry smiled and kissed his wife deeply, drawing strength from her. He wasn't as optimistic as she was, but for her he would fight. He turned back to address Dumbledore again.
"Thank you for finally telling me the truth Professor. I still am not completely happy with the way you have handled things, but I plan to move forward from here. Is there anything else I need to know? Do you have any ideas on how Voldemort can possibly be defeated? He should have died already. How has he stayed alive?"
"Ah Harry, those are indeed good questions. But those questions will take some time to answer and I am still researching them myself. Perhaps in time we can discuss this again."
"I suppose the meeting has already been delayed, so I will wait for now. But I will not wait for long. You have made enough mistakes Albus Dumbledore. I hope you will do your best to correct those and work with me to defeat Voldemort and save our lives."
Harry's strength had returned as he lightly pushed against Dumbledore's fragile shields. The old man nodded as Harry pulled back.
"I suppose I deserve that. You have my apologies Harry, although I know that will not be enough. When you return to school perhaps we should meet and discuss this further. I will do what I can to repair our relationship. I do ask that you guard this information for now, even from your friends. The Order knows there was a prophecy given about you, but not the details. You are not the only one I kept this from."
"Understood. If you truly keep your word and work with me, I believe we can mend what has happened, but I expect to be treated fairly and equally. As for guarding the information, I've been working on Occlumency as well. Why don't you test my shields?"
The words were barely out of Harry's mouth when he felt the assault hit him. It was sudden and fierce, causing lights to bloom in his eyes briefly. He felt a small fracture as he immediately began to push Dumbledore back, drawing on all his reserves. He was about bring Hermione into his mind to help when the old man pulled back and gasped. He quickly analyzed his shields and found them fractured in several places, but not broken.
"Well Harry, I think I feel safe with the knowledge I've shared with you. You have some of the hardest shields I have every witnessed. I could have pushed harder, but it would have drained me completely. Did you draw on Hermione at all?"
"No. I was thinking about it before you pulled back."
"Truly impressive. I think even if Voldemort pushed you completely he wouldn't get far for long and with the two of you together, you might even be able to push back into him. And you've only been studying for a couple weeks? Keep working on it and you will singularly be a match for him."
"How about me Professor, can you test my shields? I constructed them a bit differently."
"Perhaps another day Hermione. Between the assault I received earlier and the effort I just applied, I need to recover a bit. I would suspect that you're quite well shielded though. And if you called for Harry to help, then I am more than assured. Now, I appreciate why we needed to have this discussion and come to terms, but I have a good many people gathered to meet tonight. Is there anything else that you need to discuss immediately?"
"Only that we wish to take part in the Order meetings. I know we're young, but we feel we've earned the right."
"Well, some may not agree, but I'll allow it. Call this a first small step to rebuilding our friendship. I won't induct you fully into the Order yet, but I will allow you to sit in as long as you take a privacy oath."
Harry and Hermione both nodded and then took a brief oath that Dumbledore administered. With that done and many disturbing thoughts still swirling in their heads, they left the library and went to join their first meeting with the Order of the Phoenix.