Chapter 17
"Normal Speech"
Thoughts
'Mental Conversations'
Inside Ragnok's office-
Bill walked up to the director's door and took a deep breath before knocking. "Enter" was screamed from behind the door. Bill squared his shoulders, held his head high and opened the doors to find Director Ragnok and Filius Flitwick seated at a table next to the fire place. As Bill got closer to the group he gave a deep bow to show his respect. The Directed gave him a bow of the head and motioned him to take a seat. As Bill start to move towards the chair, something that was gold caught his eye. As he got closer, he realized that it was Helga Hufflepuff's cup. The Director cleared his throat and said, "Curse breaker Weasley, take a seat. We have much to discuss. What news do you bring us?"
This brought Bill out of his daze and replied, "My brothers and father are currently in my office. Our mother has made several threats against Lady Potter, and our youngest brother made threats against Lord Potter. The twins have brought some samples of what my mother was feeding our sister and preparing to send to Lord Potter. My father tried using our family magic to prevent her from doing anything, but we all fear that this will not stop her. He has already gone to Madame Bones with this information. I do have a request, is there any way to prepare evidence against her? Also, I believe she has a private vault that no one knows about. Is there a way to drain those funds? The reason I ask this is because he has already told her that if she does not stop, he will divorce her and leave her nothing. Casting her out of the family."
The Director leaned back in his chair and tented his fingers in front of his face while he thought about what the curse breaker has told him. "I will speak to Lord Potter about this. You have done well curse breaker and for such loyalty to the nation and its friends, you shall be rewarded." The Director quickly put his hand up to prevent Bill from speaking and continued to say, "I have another task for you. I have been speaking with Filius about this and he is in agreement. I want you two to train Lord and Lady Potter, and also act as a guard for the two. I fear for their safety once they return to Hogwarts. What you need to know is that both Lord and Lady Potter are Friends of the Nation."
Friends of the nation?he thought. Bill took a moment to think about everything the Director had told him before he replied, "Director, I would like to thank you for the confidence you are showing me. I would be honored to take on this quest. I do have one question. Am I doing this as a curse breaker, or as someone else?"
The Director gave him a large smile, which made Bill a little nervous, and replied, "That is a very valid question. I see you have been paying attention to how us goblins do business. I would like to elevate you to the position of Protector. In this role you will do exactly that, and act as a liaison for the Nation, protect them, and keep us up to date."
All his life Bill knew that if he worked hard, it would eventually pay off. He knew that to get anywhere in life, you had to start on the bottom in order to reach to top. "What happens if the Potter's don't agree with it? What if Dumbledore tries to road block all our efforts and bans us from the castle?" asked Bill.
Ragnok looked over to Filius for the explanation. "You would be at Hogwarts as a private tutor. Minerva and I have been going through the charters and have found something in the bi laws that helps us with this matter. We will make it look as if the Potter's are paying you for your services."
Just as Bill was about to ask what Filius was going to ask exactly what subjects they would be tutoring them in when there was a knock on the door. "Enter!" barked the director. They all stood as Lord Potter was helping a pale looking Lady Potter in, followed by Narcissa Black, Draco Malfoy, Amelia Bones, Remus Lupin, and Nymphadora Tonks. "What happened to Lady Potter? Should I go and get one of our healers?" asked the Director as he was making his way around the table. Not only was Lady Potter pale, she was twitching a little bit. "Why does it look like…" the Director started to ask but was quickly cut off by Amelia who asked the exact same question.
"Why does it look like Lady Potter suffering from exposure to the Cruciatus curse?"
"That is because she is. Her healers originally gave her 4 hours to get everything done before being restricted to bed rest. The potion I gave her before we came here should help lessen the pain." Replied Narcissa as Harry was helping Hermione into a chair.
Everyone could see that Amelia wanted more details on the matter. "Lord Potter, would you care to explain just what the hell is going on?" To say that the Head of the DMLE was ticked off would be an understatement.
"The short version is that Severus Snape was brought to Tonks home earlier today. It would seem someone placed several mind altering curses on him. When I walked into the room to check on him, he snapped and started trying to kill me. Hermione decided to step in front of the Cruciatus curse. Unfortunately, she was hit with it a few times, and here we are. Perhaps we could give you that statement about what happened just a few minutes ago? We have other issues to deal with and I would like to get Lady Potter home." Harry looked around the room and saw both Bill Weasley and Filius Flitwick. "Professor Flitwick? Not that I'm unhappy to see you, but why are you here?"
"Lord Potter, If I could get that statement now, I will be on my way. I know you have important business to attend to and I need to get my report started." Said Amelia. She knew that if she did not take charge and get their statements now, it most likely wouldn't happen at all. "Let's just take a step over here. This should only take a few moments. I would also like a copy of the memory from the event in question. Once I have your statement, I would also like to ask for a copy of Lady Potter's memory as well."
Harry crouched in front of Hermione, and without a look back replied, "I can take care of the statements. I would like to ask if we can hold off with Lady Potter's statement. I would like to finish everything here as soon as possible so that we can get her home. I'm sure her mother is also worried about her, and we wouldn't want to piss off our healers." Harry gave Hermione a quick kiss and stood to go over to Amelia.
"Harry, why don't I just share with you through the mind link what happened. This way we can get it all over with darling." Asked Hermione as she grabbed Harry's hand.
Harry crouched back down and said, "Are you sure love? You had to use quite a bit of magic today and I know that made this whole situation worse."
"Oh sweetheart, let's just get this all over with now." She replied as she placed a hand on the side of his face and gently rubbed his cheek with her thumb.
"Alright love." Harry went to stand, but leaned in to whisper in her ear, "Don't think I have forgotten about earlier. We will be discussing that later tonight." He kissed her on the for head and said a little louder, "I'll take care of everything love." Hermione gave him a nod and watched him and Madame Bones go off to the corner.
"Narcissa, is my mother alright?" she asked as Draco handed her a cup of tea. "Thanks." Hermione tried to take a sip but her hands were shaking too badly. Draco quickly helped her by taking the cup and putting the cup on the table for her.
The Director saw all of this and came over. "Lady Potter, are you sure I can't send for one of my healers. We have some excellent remedies for this sort of thing."
Despite the potion Narcissa gave her just before they got here, the pain was starting to become unbearable. 'Harry?'
Harry stopped talking and looked over and replied, 'Everything ok darling?' He noticed that Hermione was looking a little green and her brow was covered with beads of sweat. "Excuse me for a moment Madame Bone." He quickly crossed the room and was at her side in 3 steps. "What's wrong?" he asked, almost frantic.
"I'll be alright in a moment. The pain is getting to be a little much, that's all. I don't think it was the normal cruciatus." Hermione replied through clinched teeth.
"Lady Potter, I am going to call for one of our healers to come and take a look at you." said Ragnok as he was walking towards the door.
"Harry, do you want me to take Hermione back to my Aunt's?" asked Draco. Harry was a little shocked at this offer.
He was brought back to reality when he heard Hermione say, "Don't even think about it you two. I'll be fine for at least another hour. Let just finish when what we have to do."
Harry wanted to argue, but saw the look of determination on Hermione's face and knew that there was no way she was leaving unless he physically took her against her will and he would not go against her wishes. Yet. "Alright love. But if you get any worse, I will have you taken home and put to bed." He quickly put his hand up to stop her from arguing with him about this, and instead got a nod of her head. She knew that if she argued, that would take what little strength she had left.
The Director came back into the office with one of his healers soon after. The healer took one look at Hermione and growled, "You expect me to work on a witch? Have you lost your damn mind?" The Director pulled himself to his full height and said, "First off, I expect you to do your job. Second, if you ever speak to me or anyone for that matter who is a Friend of the Nation like that, I will feed you to the dragons after I have skinned you alive myself. Do I make myself clear!?"
The healer was looking as green as Hermione was by the time the director was done with him. "My apologizes sir" Replied the healer as he gave the director a deep bow before walking over to Hermione. "Lady Potter, if you don't mind, I am going to run a few scans. Would you please tell me what happened?"
"She was hit with a Cruciatus Curse a few times several hours ago. Our healers said she would be fine in a few hours, but she was still experiencing pain. She was given a pain potion before we left the house. The healers originally only gave her 4 hours to get everything done. But we had some complications." Replied Harry as he was held Hermione's hand. "Before we came to Gringotts we had run in with Albus Dumbledore. Someone started firing spells at us and then he tried to kidnap Lady Potter. She used quite a bit of magic during the fight defending not only us, but herself as well."
The healer gave a frown. At least, it looked like a frown to Harry. The Director saw this as well and asked, well more like commanded, "What did you find?" There was so much steel in his voice the healer cringed a little at hearing it.
The Director was about to give a growl when the healer finally said, "It was a modified Cruciatus Curse. The effects are made worse when the victim uses magic. I have only seen this one other time." The Healer stood and turned to the Director and went on to say, "I will get a potion and an ointment that will help. Unfortunately, not even a Phoenix's song will heal this. Time is the only way this will heal. And no magic for the rest of the day. The more you use, the worse it will be." The healer gave the director a quick bow before rushing out to get what was needed. He knew that the director was going to tan his hide for his little outburst.
"Lord Potter, I'm sorry to interrupt, but are you able to finish giving your statement?" asked Amelia. She knew she was pushing her luck by asking this, but wanted to get all of this over with.
Harry asked, 'Maya, are you ok with that love?'
'Go ahead darling. I'm not going anywhere.' Harry gave her a smile and walked back over to finish up with Amelia. "Narcissa, how is my mum? Is everything ok?" she asked, trying to draw the attention away from herself.
"She is fine Hermione. Just worried about you, that's all. I brought her back to Andy's. As for the healer's orders, don't worry about them. I told Andy what happened, and she won't hold it against you."
Hermione tried to reach for her drink but hissed through her teeth as the pain ripped through her body. "Dammit Granger." Replied Draco as he slapped her hand away and grabbed the cup for her.
"Language Malfoy."
Draco gave her a smirk at this and replied, "Pardon milady" as he gave her a mock bow.
Hermione chuckled at this. "Draco, why were we never friends? It seems like we are essentially two peas in a pod."
Draco pulled a chair up to sit with her and said, "Truthfully? It was because of my father. I'm sure we would have hit it off if it wasn't for him. It would have been nice to have an intelligent conversation every now and then. But that's the problem with the other Slytherin's. They read too much into a conversation, and will try to use it for their own personal gain. You know, I really am sorry for all the torment I put you through."
"Well, we will just have to change that now won't we." Hermione gave him a small smile as the healer came back into the room.
He briskly walked over to her and handed her a goblet. "Drink this Lady Potter." He wanted for her to finish the potion before adding, "Yes, it does taste horrible. Now, this is an ointment will help with the nerve pain. Apply it twice a day for the next 3 days." The healer turned to the Director and as he was giving a bow he said, "If there is nothing else Director, I will be on my way." The Director gave him a curt nod.
Harry and Amelia came back over and heard the tail end of this. "I believe I have everything I need. Lady Potter, please get some rest. I will be in touch. If you need anything from me, just let me know."
"Madame Bones, could you please contact our solicitor Edward Tonks and let him know what is happening. He will be representing us." Replied Harry as he went back to Hermione's side. Draco went to stand so that Harry could sit next to her, but was quickly waved off.
Amelia gave a small bow of her head and said as she was leaving, "I will do that. I believe he is in his office. Are we still on for dinner?"
"Yes, Hermione and I have some other things to discuss with you and Susan later tonight. Don't worry, it's nothing bad. It's just something that pertains to Hogwarts." Amelia gave her final good byes and left quickly for the office. They all knew Dumbledore was going to try to spin this as he was trying to save Lord and Lady Potter and would likely get away with it.
"Now, let's get to our other business." Said the Director as he clapped his hands and moved back to the table to sit beside Filius. Everyone quickly followed behind them and found their seats.
Harry helped Hermione slowly over to the table and made sure she was comfortable to before saying, "Right. Back to my original question, Professor Flitwick, why are you here? I can understand Bill, but I am at a little bit of a loss as for your presence." The director motioned for Filius to explain everything and thought, this should be amusing.
Filius cleared his throat at this unexpected request. "I have been speaking with the Director about what is to come this year as well as your future Lord and Lady Potter."
"Professor, we are outside the walls of Hogwarts, please call us Harry and Hermione." Asked Harry, which earned him a smile.
"For the purposes of this conversation, I will keep it to Lord and Lady Potter." This made them sit a little straighter. They knew that when the goblins kept using titles, it was very serious business. "As I was saying. With all that is to come, we all believe that you will somehow be entered in the Tri-Wizard Tournament and will be forced to compete. I cannot help you train explicitly for it as your professor, but I can give you private lesson in dueling as an instructor employed by the Nation. There is nothing in the Hogwarts Charter that prevents you from hiring private tutors. The Director has assured me that they will make it look like you are the one paying for those services, but won't be spending a penny. As a professor already employed by the school, we can classify everything as extra lessons."
Harry sat at the table tapping his fingers on it thinking. He looked around the room to try and gauge everyone's reaction, but saw nothing but blank canvases. Except on the Director's face. His showed that he found this whole situation amusing. "I can see how this would be an excellent idea. However, I have a few other people I want to train with us, is that going to be a problem? And what does this have to do with Curse breaker Weasley."
Filius looked over to see if the Director would like to take over with this line of questioning, but found no help there. "I do not have a problem with training others. Is it safe for me to assume that Mr. Malfoy will be one such person?" He waited for Harry to give a nod before continuing, "As for Protector Weasley, he will not only be helping with your training, but will also act a liaison for Gringotts as well as a security guard."
Tonks and Remus both sifted in their seats. Filius, Ragnok, and Bill all saw this. Tonks decided to speak up and with what was becoming a Black family smirk said, "I think you should speak to the head of the Potter's security team about adding additional guards."
The smug look that has been on Ragnok's face during this entire meeting suddenly dropped. "Just exactly what do you mean?" he asked with some of the steel returning to his voice.
"I am heading the Potter security team and will acting as the liaison between them and Madam Bones. Remus Lupin will be acting as my associate. Just so we are clear, I do not have a problem with adding Protector Weasley to our team. Their safety is our top concern." Tonks replied as calmly as possible. She did not want to offend nor disrespect the Director of Gringotts.
"This is all fine, but how exactly do all of you plan to get this past Dumbledore?" asked Hermione. Everyone looked at her like she had three heads. "What? It's a legitimate question. We all know that the manipulative old coot won't let this slide. Especially since this would put a stake in whatever he had planned. And just how exactly are we going to get, no offense Remus, a werewolf to accompany us during the school year. Didn't you run into problems at the end of last year with the parents?"
Remus knew Hermione didn't mean to bring him down, but did have a valid point. Reluctantly he admitted, "She's right. There is no way we can get this all past Dumbledore."
"Were there is a will, there is a way." Replied Filius. "I believe I should contact Minerva. We could always go to the school governors."
'Don't forget who you are Lord Gryffindor/Slytherin' said a voice in the back of Harry's head, as a voice in the back of Hermione's said, 'Remember who you are Lady Ravenclaw.'
Harry and Hermione's jaw dropped and they both heard chuckling in the back of their minds. That little voice was all that was needed for Hermione's brain to go into overdrive. "What if the founder's heir's came back to Hogwarts? I believe each heir has 25% ownership of the school as well as all the land in Hogsmead and the businesses as well." Hermione looked directly at Filius and asked, "Would that work?"
Filius had to pick his own jaw up off the floor. He looked around the room and saw that the only people who weren't shocked were Remus Lupin and Director Ragnok. Finally, being able to form the words needed to reply Filius asked, "What did the rest of us miss?"
'Maya, do you think this would actually work?' asked Harry.
Hermione gave him a smile and said, 'I think it could. There is no way for anyone to override it. Could you imagine Dumbledork's reaction?'
'I never thought I would see the day that Hermione Granger Potter disrespect's an authority figure.' Chuckled Harry.
'Oh hush you. We have one small road block dear. In order to have complete control, we need to have the Hufflepuff Heir on board as well.' Hermione replied.
'One step at a time dear. All we need to do is convince the heir to come in and complete an inheritance test.' Replied Harry as he gave her hand a squeeze.
They were drawn from their private conversation when Ragnok cleared his throat. Harry and Hermione blushed at this. "Would either of you care to explain this? I'm sure the conversation you were just having had something to do with this matter."
"I'll do it Harry. It was my idea." Replied Hermione as she was looking deep into Harry's emerald eyes. "The reason we brought up the founder's heirs is because between Harry and I, we own 75% of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and 75% of Hogsmead. We have final say over all decisions regarding the school. Including who we keep on staff." And there it was, the proverbial mic drop.
Harry picked up where she left off by adding, "We did not want that last bit to get out just yet. It was supposed to be a last resort kind of thing."
'Don't forget Lord Pendragon and Lady Le Fey.' Harry added. He felt Hermione become amused at his thought through the bond, but noticed that she acted as if nothing happened.
"I think we will need something stronger than tea after hearing this." Replied Ragnok as he looked at all the stunned faces around the room. "We should return to the original topics here. Mr. Lupin, I have to agree with the difficult situation you are in. How about for now we set you up in Hogsmead. I know Tonks is in charge, but I believe you would be excellent for this position. We would not need to worry about your owls being intercepted. You would handle not only the mail, but also be the outside man. Then, we use Assistant Tonks and Protector Weasley as your private tutors and guards. The only issue that I could see us having some trouble with would be that we may have to bring forward all of your titles. Also, unless the Hufflepuff Heir claims their rights, Dumbledore will still be allowed input in regards to anything to do with Hogwarts. Finding that heir is imperative to all of these plans. Without them, this all will collapse."
Filius got up from the table and started to pace around the room, and Draco started to run his hands through his hair so that his hair was standing straight up. "I need to get back to Hogwarts and do some more research on these matters." Filius said as he was walking towards the door. "Would any of you mind if I tell Minerva?" He asked as he looked to Harry and Hermione and waited for their approval. He knew Minerva was well aware of what was going on already.
"Professor, before you leave I have a question for these two that I think you should hear. I believe their answer would be of interest to you and your research." Draco said as he finished making his hair stand on edge. Filius gave him a puzzled look but nodded his head. Draco turned and looked at Harry with a serious face. "What other titles besides being Lord Potter, Lord Gryffindor, and Lord Slytherin do you have?"
Harry and Hermione looked at each other. 'Should we tell him Maya?'
'He will find out eventually dear.'
"Would you two cut the bloody mind speak and tell us what the devil is really going on?" snapped Draco. Narcissa was two seconds away from jumping up and smacking her son upside the head. Harry held his hand up to stop Narcissa from following through on this idea. If she was to be honest with herself, she was actually interested in what other titles these two had hidden up their sleeves.
Harry gave Hermione's hand a squeeze to let her know that he would go first and said "Well, I am also Lord Pendragon and a direct descendent of Merlin." Draco's jaw hit the floor.
Before he could formulate any type of response, Hermione added, "I have some other titles as well Draco. Besides being Lady Potter and Lady Ravenclaw, I'm Lady Dagworth, and Lady Le Fey."
Draco sat there with his mouth hanging open and looked like a fish out of water. "Do you know who the Hufflepuff heir is?" he quietly asked. Harry nodded his head but said nothing. "Let me guess, you two aren't going to say anything till they complete their inheritance test and claim their birth right are you?"
Filius gave a little cough to draw everyone's attention and said, "I will keep this information under wraps Lord and Lady Potter. For now, I need to head back to Hogwarts. I will begin to look through the charter to see if there is anything that could help us and prevent you from having to, what was the muggle saying ah yes, the cat out of the bag. I know you are both close with Minerva and will enlist her help in this matter. It will help immensely that she is the Deputy Headmistress and can overrule the headmaster in certain things." Everyone watch Filius leave and Hermione finally realized there was a small cup on the table in front of them.
"What is that?" She knew what it was. Merlin had told them about it during his visit. In the back of her mind she heard someone chuckle. 'Oh hush Merlin. We are getting to it.' She thought.
"We are getting to that milady. I believe it was Lord Potter who wanted us to investigate the Lestrange Family vault. This is what we found." The Director said as he picked up the cup. "This is the cup of Helga Hufflepuff. It turns out that He-Who-Must-Not-Be Named created more horcruxes. We are unsure of the exact number he made."
Everyone, minus Draco, Hermione, and Harry, in the room paled at hearing this. "What is a horcrux?" Draco asked as he looked at everyone.
"A horcrux is something a dark wizard creates by splitting their soul and casting it into an object. By completing this, it acts as an anchor for one's soul for the one task of having immortality." Replied Bill as he spoke up for the first time. "This type of magic was only attempted by the Ancient Egyptians. I found evidence of it within the Pyramids."
"And during this time did you find a way to destroy them?" asked Harry.
Bill's shoulders slumped a little when replied, "No. There was no mention of any method for their destruction. As far as I know, there is only one group to ever find a way. The Nation, through the rite you have already experienced, or by casting a fiendfry."
"There is another method, actually two." Harry said as he watched everyone slide to the edge of their seats. "Basilisk Venom or the Sword of Gryffindor."
"How do you know this Potter? And where on earth are we going to find a Basilisk?" asked Draco.
"Well, I already have the sword. As for the basilisk, that can be found in the Chamber of Secrets at Hogwarts. And before any of you argue that fact with me, I have been in there and have personally slain it using the sword in question."
"Lord Potter…" Ragnok started to say, but was interrupted by Remus who said, "Harry, do you mean to tell us that you killed a basilisk?"
"Yes. Lucius Malfoy slipped a diary to Ginny Weasley during our second year who opened the chamber. When Hermione was attacked, we found out that Ginny was taken down to the chamber. It turns out the diary was a horcrux. After I killed the basilisk with the sword, I used one of its fangs and destroyed it. Because I used the sword to kill the monster, it became impregnated with the venom."
As everyone sat there listening to Harry's tale, they all failed to noticed that Hermione's color started to fade and she started trembling again. Harry felt a twinge coming through the bond and looked over to see what was happening.
Ragnok asked, "Do you mean to tell me that you have killed such a beast? I would like to discuss render of such creature. Through the rites of conquest, any profit turned from the rendering would be yours, minus the fees for the task."
Harry took Hermione's hand and told the director, "I would like to discuss this further, but we have to be going. It would seem that the potion your healers gave my wife are already wearing off and the pain seems to be returning tenfold. I will either send an owl to you with the details or a representative to discuss these matters further." He went to stand but before he could try get to help Hermione up she said, "Before we conclude with our business, I have one question. "Narcissa, before we left the street you said there was word about the Dursley's. What have you heard?"
Narcissa took a long sip of tea before saying, "The insurance company is saying the explosion was caused by a gas leak. With the insurance money they have purchased a new home."
Harry sat silent for a moment thinking before saying, "Two questions. One, have they even asked about me? And two, where have they purchased their new home?"
Narcissa sighed. She herself could not understand how one family could be so terrible. Well, she could understand how some people could be terrible, but this was even lower than anything Lucius has ever done. "They did not ask about your welfare. I believe they actually hope your died in the explosion. As for where they purchased their new home." Based on everything Narcissa has learned, she wasn't sure if she should actually tell anyone where they live. But based on the look Harry and Hermione were giving her, she knew she better start talking. "They bought a house in Surrey."
Chapter 18
"Normal Speech"
Thoughts
'Mental Conversations'
Dumbledore's office-
Dumbledore went stumbling across his office to the floo and called Molly Weasley to come as quickly as possible. Never in a million years did he expect that damn Mudblood to stab him. He snorted at this for the third time since it happened. Of course she would stoop so low as using her muggle ways against him. At least he was able to stop the bleeding, and would be able to have Molly suture him up. He made his way over to one of the chairs close to the fire place as he waited, and thought about recent events. His first stop had been to see the Minister to prevent any further investigations into today's events. Married. A soul bond. That would make his future plans difficult, but not impossible. He heard the floo flair to life and watched as Molly Weasley stepped through to office.
"This better be good Albus, I was in the middle of something." She said as she was walking towards him. She stopped suddenly when she saw the blood on his robes. "What happened?" she asked as she took her wand out and started walking over to his side.
"I ran into Lord and Lady Potter at Diagon Alley. I made the mistake of trying to kidnap Hermione during the distraction of a small fight that was taking place, and she stabbed me while Harry distracted me." Dumbledore said with a wave of his hand.
Molly started with cleaning the wound and asked, "Is it safe for me to assume that you have already spun this to our advantage?"
Albus winced a little as she started to suture the wound closed and said, "Yes. My first stop was the ministry. I made them believe that some vagrants were responsible for targeting them and that I was trying to get them to safety."
"And what of the situation with the Dursely's?" she asked as she was applying a bandage to him.
Dumbledore winced slightly while Molly was applying the last of the bandage and replied, "I was able to convince them and all the appropriate people that it was a gas leak. I set it up so that the Dursely's have been relocated to a home in Surrey that I had purchased with the money from Potter's trust vault. I implanted a memory so that they believe they were the ones who bought the house with the insurance money. I had just managed to place the blood wards before my spy told me that Harry was on his way to Diagon Alley."
Molly finally took a seat opposite him an asked, "Won't people ask questions about the Dursely's? About why Potter's body was not found in the wreckage?"
"I have taken care of everything. No one in that neighborhood will even remember there was ever another boy living with the Dursley's." Albus was about to tell Molly about the soul bond, but decided against it for the time being. He really wasn't in the mood to listen to her ranting and raving at the moment.
"And what of the prophet?" asked Molly as she was walking back over to the fire place.
"Already taken care of."
Narcissa's home in Surrey-
In front of Harry, Hermione, and Narcissa was a rather large gate that would lead the equally large manor about 30 acres back. They noticed that the lawn and front gardens were perfectly kept as they walked up to the front of the manor. Harry was carrying Hermione since they left Gringotts seeing as the pain had become too great for her to handle. True to her Gryffindor nature, she tried not to make a peep as they walked closer to the front door. About half way they were greeted by two house elves. "Master Harry? Is that you?" asked one of them.
"Yes, and this is my wife Hermione, and Narcissa Black. She is the new owner here. Who are you two?" he asked.
The two house elves' faces beamed at hearing this. "I am Dro, head elf here. This is my mate Bess. Welcome home."
"Would you like us to take you directly to the master bedroom Master Harry?" asked Bess.
Harry took one look at Hermione and said, "I think that would be wise. But please take us to one of the guest rooms. Lady Black is the mistress of this manor."
The elves' looked to Narcissa who said, "Please take them to the master suite. There is no reason for one person to have such large rooms right now. Besides, once you two go back to Hogwarts, I can move in there."
Harry wanted to argue with her, but realized that he would lose this argument. "If one of you wouldn't mind taking us there. Lady Potter is very ill at the moment." Realization dawned on Dro and Bess' face as they truly looked at Lady Potter, causing them to try to apologize profusely. "There is no need for that. Please just take us there right away." Bess and Dro gave a deep bow and one went over to Harry and Hermione while the other went over to Narcissa.
With a blink of an eye, they were standing in a spacious bedroom that had hard wood floors that had an old and weathered look to them. The large room was separated by a fire place that was in the center of the room and had beautiful arch ways in place so you could easily get to the other side of the room. The walls were painted a warm tan color that seemed to breathe life and love into the room. Harry walked towards the bed and saw a large four poster bed whose wood had elegant carvings all over it. Over to the left were a few windows that went from the floor to the ceiling and had a set of French doors that opened up to not only the balcony but also a beautiful view of the entire back half of the property. Harry gently laid Hermione on the bed, but even this motion made her groan from the pain. "I'm sorry Maya." Harry turned to Narcissa and asked, "Why don't you take Fawkes and head back to get everyone else. Draco should have already warned everyone to gather everything they needed"
"No, I will not leave you two alone even for a second with Hermione like this." Replied Narcissa. "Dobby!"
"Yes Lady Black?" asked Dobby as he popped into the bed room.
"Could you please bring those who want to come? And please tell Emma not to worry. She will know what I mean."
Dobby looked over to Harry to make sure this was ok with his master before saying, "Right away."
Once Dobby left Narcissa walked over to the bed and said, "Where is the ointment the healer gave you Hermione?"
Hermione tried to reach into her pocket but hissed through her teeth. "You know love, you could have just told me and I would have grabbed it for you."
'Shut up Harry.' Thought Hermione since she was unable to speak at the moment. 'Can you ask Narcissa if she has ever heard of the spell Severus used?'
Harry just shook his head at this, no matter how much pain she was in, her need for knowledge always persevered. "Maya, we need to put you on your stomach so that we can rub the ointment in. I'm sorry love, but this is going to hurt." He waited for a respond but never got one. He felt Hermione build her resolve and courage seconds before he and Narcissa started to turn her over, causing her to scream as if her body was on fire. "I'm so sorry Maya," was all Harry kept saying has they rubbed the ointment onto the back of her legs, arms, neck, and back. Harry counted to three and the flipped her, again causing her to scream. As they rubbed the ointment on to the front of her, she was whimpering and had tears streaming down her cheeks. As they were finishing up Harry asked, "Narcissa, how did Severus know that spell? The Goblin said he had only seen it one other time and that was during the last war. Do you know who used it?"
Narcissa continued to rub the ointment into Hermione's arms and replied, "Someone taught it to him. I know of it, only because Lucius can't hold his tongue when he drinks. Voldemort created it during the last war. The only time it was used was when they decided to torture a goblin general. They tried to force information out him." By time they finished, Hermione was sobbing and shaking uncontrollable. Harry wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms, but he was afraid to touch her, afraid of making the pain worse.
They heard a door bell just before Dro popped in to inform them that their guests had arrived. "Narcissa, go see the them. I will stay with Hermione. Emma needs to know what is going on before she storms in here and gets Hermione even more worked up."
"Your right Harry. I'll be right back." replied Narcissa as she started walking towards the door. As she opened it, they heard Emma calling for them before she asked, "Do you want me to send word to Amelia Bones? I remember you mentioned something about dinner plans?
"Let's hold off on that for now." He replied as he cautiously took Hermione's hand.
'Harry, we need to keep those dinner plans. We have business to discuss with her and Susan.'
'Where is this WE coming from? You are staying in bed until further notice Lady Potter. Besides, I hardly think your behavior earlier today would allow you to attend a dinner party.' Harry let his disappointment shone through the bond and immediately felt Hermione's guilt.
'But Harry. You know what she was asking...' Hermione tried to argue.
Harry quickly cut her off and said, 'Your right, and I do understand. But that is no excuse for how you treated her.'
'I can't put my mother through that again.'
'Be that as it may, the way you handled the entire situation was completely wrong and left me feeling ashamed.' Harry waited for is point to sink in before continuing, 'I would expect you to use your head. You have never snapped like that before. The Hermione I know would have waited to hear all the facts before flying off the handle. The only thing I can think of is because of the changed we are going through, our hormones are all messed up. Also, with all that has happened, you are incredibly protective of you mum.'
'Your right. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have flown off the handle like I did.'
Harry snorted and thought, 'You think? Because of your actions I need to do damage control. What you did Hermione was irresponsible. You not only insulted the current Head of a Most Ancient and Noble Family, you also insulted the Head of the DMLE who has been bending over backwards for us.'
'I get the point Harry.'
'No, I don't think you do. I'm sorry for coming down so hard on you Hermione, but the damage you have done can have serious consequences.'
During their conversation Emma managed to slip into the room unnoticed. She cleared her throat before saying, "How are you feeling Hermione?"
Emma slowly made her way over to the bed to join the two. "Hello Emma. She is in quite a bid of pain." Harry said while trying to keep his own emotions under control.
"Hermione, can you speak or is it too painful?" Emma asked as she was got closer to the bed. Hermione tried to shake her head, but this cause a fresh wave of pain that made her squeeze her eyes shut and for more tears to run down.
Harry stood and brought over a chair for Emma to sit in. "Bess!" called Harry as he eased himself onto the bed again.
The little elf popped up and said, "You need something Master Harry?" Emma was a little startled by the sudden appearance of the little elf.
"Could you please bring a sleeping draught for Mistress Mione? She needs to rest and is currently unable too." Bess gave a deep bow and went to search for what was needed.
Harry sensed that Hermione wanted to argue, but said, "Hermione, you need to rest. That is the only way you are going to heal. Once you take the potion, I will leave you to rest. I'm sure your phoenix will find me if you need anything." Bess quickly came back and they managed to get Hermione finally settled. Once she was asleep, Harry stood up and gently kissed Hermione's forehead before heading over to Emma and did the same. "I will just be down stairs with the others. If you need anything, just call for Dobby, Bess, or Dro."
"I'm just going to sit here for a while. Can you let Narcissa know where I am if she asks?"
Harry gave Emma a hug and said as he was walking out the door, "I will let her know. Call if you need anything."
Terrace-
Harry slowly made his way down a hidden stair case that led to the kitchens and the back entrance to the terrace. He slipped outside for some peace and quite to think. So much in his life has changed since the end of last year. He smiled to himself as he looked up and saw a small stone path way that wrapped around the gardens and led to towards the back of the property. Well, he assumed it was the back of the property. The property itself easily went on for about 40-50 acres. He followed the path for a few feet and saw that the path forked off to the right a little and he ended up in a secluded out cove that had two benches as well as several chairs surrounding a fire pit. Everything was fitted perfectly under a stone gazebo that was open on all sides for proper ventilation. He decided to sit for a few minutes to try and gather his thoughts.
How has his life changed so drastically? The people he thought he could count on turned out just to be using him and stealing from him. Then there was Ron. He thought they were friends, and was crushed to find out the truth. He just couldn't believe that Ron and Molly would do such a thing to him, and that Molly would potion her own daughter and use it for her own means. You were supposed to protect your family, not use them like that. There was supposed to be unconditional love. Growing up he always wished to be a part of a family that loved him. He snorted at this thought. What he truly wanted growing up was to be loved. He would trade all this in for the one thing Ron had. A family that loved him.
As he sat there thinking, his mind turned to Hermione. She has always been his rock, and he loved her with all his heart. He still couldn't believe that she jumped in front of the curse like that. Despite all that Merlin taught them, he couldn't take away that pain she was feeling right now. He felt it spike a little and then receded again. Harry took a couple of deep breaths before standing to head back inside. Hermione was right, he still need to speak with Amelia and Susan Bones tonight. He had to convince them that Susan was indeed the heir of Hufflepuff. Harry was so absorbed with his thoughts that he didn't realize that a large grim came trotting up in front of him. Padfoot decided jump on Harry just to get his attention, and quickly set his plan in motion.
"Oaffff" said Harry as he was scrambling to get the grim off of him and back to his feet. Harry flicked the grim's nose and said, "Bad dog. No treats for you." Padfoot gave him a little whimper and went into a play bow before he parked. "You know Padfoot, if you want to talk, you need to be in your human form right?"
Padfoot gave him another bark before changing back into Sirius. "What's on your mind pup?" Sirius motioned for them to walk back to the gazebo. "As I asked before Pup, what's on your mind?"
"So much has changed Sirius. Dumbledore tried to kill me and has been stealing from me. Meeting the Weasley's was staged, as well as my friendship with Ron, which both of them are stealing from me as well. I am one of the richest wizards in Great Britain, not to mention I am married to the brightest witch of the age. I have a mad man still trying to kill me, well make that two, and come to find out my nemesis is actually turning into one of my closest friend." He felt another ripple of pain come through the bond so forcefully, he instantly jumped to his feet.
Sirius creased his brow and asked, "What is it?"
Harry fell back onto the bench and replied, "Hermione is still in a lot of pain. I think she tried turn over. It turns out the Cruciatus curse she stepped in front of was modified a version. It draws off a person core. The more magic you use, the worse the pain is, and there is nothing I can do about it."
Sirius saw the heart break on Harry's face and said, "Why don't you slip her something a little stronger. Perhaps we should reach out to a healer. Maybe if we put her in stasis for 24 hours, that will." Harry loved his God Father, but never in all his life did he ever want to smack someone than right now.
Sirius started staring off into space, an unfortunate side effect curtsey of his long stay on the island. "Sirius." Called Harry. "Sirius!" causing him to fall of his chair as Harry pushed him.
"Huh? Oh, sorry pup. Where were we?"
"I'm not putting my wife in stasis. I think when we use magic, it makes it worse." Harry jumped to his feet and said, "That's it! Sirius, you're a genius! Well, sort of anyway." Harry ducked as he ran past Sirius to avoid the hand that was swinging for his head.
Ottery St Catchpole-
Luna Lovegood was cleaning up the kitchen as her father was sitting at his desk working on the next copy of the Quibbler. Ever since Luna's mother passed away, Luna has been trying to help her father around the house. Everyone at Hogwarts thought she was crazy. If they only knew the truth. Luna was not loony at all; she was a seer. The only down side to the visions was they came without warning, and it always looked like she was staring off into space. Xeno heard the plate crash to the floor and he jumped up to go and check on his daughter. "Luna?" he called as he walked into the eccentric kitchen. He found her standing next to the sink, broken plate at her feet, with her head tilted to the side. "Moon bean?" He put his hand on her arm. As fast as the vision began, it was over. Xeno quietly asked, "What did you see?"
Luna blinked a couple of times and said, "Hermione is seriously injured. I have to go to her." Luna started for the door, but was stopped before she was even out of the kitchen.
"We can do that my little moon bean, but do you even know how to find her?"
Luna looked at her father like he had three heads. "We call for an elf silly. Dobby!"
In the middle of door way popped the house elf who said, "You called me? Who be you?"
"My name is Luna. I'm friends with Harry Potter and Hermione Granger. Hermione is very sick right now and I have to get to her. Can you take me to her sir?"
Xeno had a huge smile on his face, and Dobby's ears perked up at the sir part. "Both of you?" Dobby waited for an answer.
Xeno looked at Luna before saying, "Just Luna. I have a feeling it is only supposed to be you." He walked over and gave Luna a kiss on the head before returning to his desk.
Luna smiled down at the elf and said, "I'm ready when you are sir." Dobby grabbed her hand and off they went.
Back at the Manor-
Harry came running in through the French doors from the terrace so fast it made everyone jump. "What the?" asked Draco as he was jumping to his feet. Harry took the steps two at a time and burst through the bedroom door just in time to see Narcissa and Andy standing over Hermione with their wands drawn. "STOP!" he screamed as he came running into the room.
They were so startled that they almost dropped their wands. "Harry? What is the meaning of this?" asked Narcissa.
Harry ran to Hermione's side. "Magic makes it worse." He replied in between trying to catch his breath. "The healer said that this curse feeds off magic. The pain gets worse when you use magic. I just figured it out. That is why nothing is working."
As Andy was going to ask how did he know this, Dobby popped in with Luna. "Dobby? Luna? What are you doing here?" asked Harry, trying hard not to looked shocked at their sudden appearance.
Luna calmly walked over and gave Harry a hug before saying, "I know what to do for Hermione. You are right, about the way that spell works. Is it ok with you if I fix her?"
She started making her way over to Hermione but was stopped as Harry stepped in front of her to shield Hermione. "How did you know this Luna?" How do you know what is happening?" Harry felt a little tingle in the back of his mind, Keep the child of the moon close.
"I think you already know the answer to that Lord Pendragon." Harry's jaw dropped to the floor. "Now, do you mind if I see to Hermione, I can tell you that she is in agony right now. Which I am sure you are feeling through your bond as well." Luna moved passed Harry before he even picked his jaw up off the floor. She walked up Hermione's head and tapped her finger on her lips. She quickly started pressing Hermione's pressure points, starting from the head and slowly working her way towards her feet. Once she was done with that, she turned to the nightstand and quickly transfigured the matches to acupuncture needles and turned back to Harry who still had his mouth hanging open and asked, "Can you turn her over? I need to place these needles in her back." Luna saw that Harry hadn't moved a muscle, so she calmly walked over to him and slapped him. "Harry, help me turn her over. This will help, trust me. Have I ever lied to you?" That seemed to do the trick. Harry quickly followed Luna and helped her. Just like before, pain came through the bond, but it wasn't as bad as before. Harry looked at Luna with wide eyes, making her chuckle. "Didn't Merlin tell you not to question me?" Harry's jaw hit the floor for the second time within the last few minutes. This time though, Luna reached over and helped him shut it. Once Luna placed all the needles she stepped back and stretched. "Harry," she asked, "could you please find out how she is doing?" Harry just stared at her. "Harry, what do you feel from your bond?"
"She seems more relaxed. There is still some pain, but it's not as intense as it was before." 'Maya?' He called out to her.
'Harry.' She replied in a faint voice.
Harry ran over to her side and grabbed her hand, taking extra care not to move her. 'How are you feeling love?'
'Like shite. The pain is somewhat better. It's slowly fading. How though? Nothing we did worked.' Hermione asked.
'It was Luna. I can only assume that she had a vision. She called Dobby and asked him to take her here.' Harry felt the bond becoming a little hazy. 'Get some sleep love.'
'Tell Luna I said thank you.' thought Hermione as she started to drift off to sleep.
Harry kissed the top of her head and turned to Luna and said, "Hermione says thank you. The pain is still there, but the intensity is a lot less than before."
"You two are welcome. I need to keep the needles in for a little longer. Why don't you go and send for Amelia and Susan Bones. You need to keep those dinner plans."
Harry knew better than to try and argue with Luna, so instead he walked over and gave her a huge bear hug and lifted her off the floor and spun her around. "Thank you so much Luna!"
She playfully slapped at his shoulders and said, "Put me down Harry. Go write that letter. Everything will work out tonight. While you're at it, send one to Neville as well. He needs to be a part of this too. Now shoo, I'm going to explain the needles to Andy and Narcissa."
He put her down and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Come on Draco, let's leave them to it. Besides, I believe we still need to discuss who is going to win the world cup this year." Harry walked over and slapped Draco on the back as he tried to push him out of the room.
Sirius looked at Remus and asked, "What just happened? And why does Hermione have those needles in her back?"
Emma walked over to Luna and gave her a hug. "Thank you for helping my little humming bird."
"Your welcome Mrs. Granger. Just so you know, everything will work out. You can trust Ms. Black, even with your heart. Daniel said all he ever wanted was for you to be happy and to be loved. He approves."
Emma paled at the mention of Daniel and tears started to form in her eyes. "What did you say? How?"
Narcissa came over and said, "Luna has a gift Emma. She is a seer. Ms. Lovegood, does this mean that Daniel came to you during one of your visions?"
Luna looked at them with a tilt in her head, "He did. That is how I knew Hermione needed my help. Did I say something wrong? I'm dreadfully sorry if I did."
Emma grabbed Luna and held her with all her might. "No Luna, you didn't say anything wrong. Thank you. For helping my daughter and for bringing me peace. Please, call me Emma. After what you just said, you could call me mum for all I care." Emma wanted to tell her that what this little girl just said helped healed her heart.
"Em, Luna needs to breathe." Replied Narcissa as she tried to pull Emma back a little bit. "Why don't I show you to your room and help you get settled. Then we can head down to the terrace. How does that sound?"
Narcissa managed to get Emma to pull back just enough that Luna managed to say, "That sounds like a lovely idea. Hermione will be sleeping for quite some time, but don't you fear. She will be as good as new when she wakes." Emma wiped the tears away and gave Luna a smile before Narcissa started to steer her by the elbow out of the room.
As they reached the door Luna said, "Oh, and congratulations on having a boy."
Emma just looked at her in wonder. Who is this young lady? How does she know these things?
Narcissa was helping guide Emma down to the other end of the hall when Emma asked, "Can I stay with you? I am afraid to stay alone."
Narcissa was jumping for joy on the inside, but on the outside she looked cool as a cucumber. "If that is what you would like. You know I could never say no to you. My room is on the other side of the manor. Would you like to head down to the terrace first? We could sit out there and have our tea. We are having some beautiful weather."
Emma relaxed her shoulders and said, "That would be lovely." They turned and headed for the stairs, and managed to get out to the terrace without incident.
Emma stopped and placed her hand on Narcissa's arm just as she opened the doors to head outside. Narcissa turned to look at her and saw a look of determination in her eyes. "Let's head outside. We can talk out there."
Narcissa tried to get Emma to take a seat, but Emma grabbed her shoulders and looked into her eyes and said, "Is that young lady right Cissa? Can I trust you with my heart?"
Narcissa looked deep into Emma's eyes and saw that Emma was opening herself up. She was showing her everything right now. Her fear, her broken heart. Emma's soul was on display and it was only for Narcissa to see. Narcissa saw a woman who had her heart ripped out one moment, only to have to slowly pieced back together again. "Em, you can trust me with your heart and more. I have already told you that no matter what happens, I will always be there for you." Emma leaned in as Narcissa was pulling her close and gave her a passionate kiss. As they pulled back Narcissa said, "I don't know if this is too soon, but I have to tell you something Em." Emma's jumped a little at this and she started to panic. Narcissa saw this and quickly went on to say, "I think I am falling in love with you again."
"Again? Did I hear that right?" A shocked Emma asked.
Narcissa softened her voiced and replied, "Yes, again. I fell in love with you all those years ago while in France."
Narcissa pulled Emma into her arms and held her close as Emma quietly said, "I think I am falling in love with you as well. I'm so afraid Cissa."
"You have nothing to be afraid of dear. I won't let anything happen to you or your child. Whatever the Gods have in store for us, we will get through it. Together."
Edited 7/5/17
a/n: Yes, I know Harry was being a little harsh with Hermione, but it must be. No, I do not hate women. As a matter of fact, I love them- I'm pretty sure my wife would be pretty pissed off at me if I didn't. Although, a few of my ex-boyfriends may be very happy about the possibility of switching teams.
Amelia has been bending over backwards to help the Granger's and it certainly doesn't help with Hermione going through all those changes and suffering at the same time. I can personally speak from experience as someone who tends to get a little bitchy when in a crap tone of pain.