Vernon Dursley was relieved. He had spent the last week stressing over a serious problem, trying to find a solution that didn't seem to exist, but it had been neatly solved for him. Yes, other people solving his problems was for the best.
The problem was simple to describe: despite Doing The Right Thing by taking in his nephew, Vernon (and Petunia) did not like the idea of magic, at all. But now Harry had spent a year at that... place... he would surely be doing magic all the time! He couldn't force his nephew not to do magic (after all, he may get an unwanted visit from those French sorts), and he couldn't just throw his nephew out (as he was one of Dudley's friends, as well as family).
But Harry had solved the problem as soon as he got home. "It's ok Uncle Vernon, I've given my Godfather all my magical things so you don't need to see them", stated Harry. It wasn't quite true – he still kept his mirror and his Delacour wand – but Vernon would be happier living in ignorance.
Harry watched the tension plummet off of Vernon's face, then saw... was that a smile? "Oh. Well. Yes, that's... Yes, that's very decent of you Harry. Well come on in, and welcome home."
Harry stepped inside, then heard rapid footsteps. "Harry!", cried Dudley. "I missed you! Tell me all about your year!"
Harry and Dudley shared a warm but brief hug, then Dudley led Harry upstairs, for the cousins to properly catch up... away from any grown-up who might not like parts of the conversation.
"So, Harry", began Dudley eagerly. "How is magic school? Have you made friends? Have you got a girlfriend yet? Is it Fleur?"
Harry was eager to answer the first two questions, but blushed at the second two. He hadn't really began Noticing (with a capital N) girls yet, but it was still an embarrassing conversation! Well, this was Dudley, his only blood cousin and one of his best friends, so he would try not to get too embarrassed.
...
Something was not right. Harry had asked her to write him a letter, which she had done within a day or two – something her mother found far too interesting – but almost two weeks later there had been no reply! She knew boys could be dense sometimes, but she thought better of Harry.
She was a little worried if she was honest – what if something had happened to him? Maybe she should check in – after all, she had his address to write to him, and there were a few transportation options she had.
So, after a few minutes of planning, and checking in with her mother ("I don't see why not, it sounds like a sensible thing to do"), a determined witch started the journey to number 4 Privet Drive.
...
Dobby, a mistreated house-elf, was panicking. He had been intercepting Harry's owl mail, in an attempt to make Harry believe his friends didn't really care about him, but that clearly wouldn't work now, as a young witch had just stepped off the Knight Bus and was walking towards Harry's house!
Dobby watched as a man opened the door, then a half-minute later Harry appeared and the witch threw her arms around him in a hug. The two had started talking, but Dobby couldn't hear from where he was, so he popped closer.
"...to see you! I was getting a little worried when you hadn't replied to my letter", Harry stated.
"Your letter? I didn't get any letter! And I did send you a letter, and was wondering why you hadn't sent me a reply!", replied the witch, confused.
Harry looked very confused. "What's been happening to my mail then?", he wondered aloud. Then, in a minor panic, "Who else has tried sending me a letter that I don't know about?!
"Well, come on in and we can catch up properly", Harry invited.
The two went inside, and a minute later went up into Harry's room. Dobby needed to pop closer again, but he would be seen when he did – there was no hiding in a bedroom. Making up his mind for a minute, Dobby nodded in determination – he would keep The Great Harry Potter safe!
...
Harry was feeling pleased and relieved. He had been a little worried when he hadn't got any letters, but the fact that one of his friends had cared enough to check on him made him feel warm and fuzzy inside. But what had happened to his letters? The answer came sooner than expected when a small creature appeared literally out of thin air.
"The Great Harry Potter, sir, and The Great Harry Potter sir's Caring Friend!", cried Dobby.
"Woah, who are you, and how did you get in here?", asked Caring Friend.
"I is Dobby, miss, and I be here warning The Great Harry Potter of great danger at Hogwarts!", stated the creature, dramatically.
"Great danger?", asked Harry. "What danger?"
Dobby started twisting his ears painfully. "Dobby can't be telling you! He's being a bad house elf just coming and warning you!"
The witch held up her hand. "It's ok, Dobby. What can you tell us?"
Dobby twisted his ears a little more. "There will be a great danger at Hogwarts this year, and Harry Potter can't go back! He won't be safe!"
The witch tried a different approach. "Is it a magical artefact?" Dobby stayed still. "An evil wizard or witch?" Dobby stayed still. "A magical creature?" Dobby started twisting his ears even harder, then whimpered, "Dobby shouldn't be telling you!"
The witch looked concerned at the information, so carried on the questioning, carefully. "So a dangerous magical creature. Is someone bringing it to Hogwarts?" Dobby stopped his whimpering, shaking his head a little. "It's a dangerous magical creature already in Hogwarts?" Dobby pulled at his ears so much Harry was afraid he would rip them off.
But Harry now had a suspicion, and with a curious look he asked a very direct question. "Is someone planning to release the Basilisk that was hidden in the school?"
The witch gave Harry a confused look, but Dobby's mouth just fell open in shock. "How did the Great Harry Potter know?!"
Harry's reaction was one that neither Dobby nor the witch had expected – he laughed! And not just a little laugh, but Harry had collapsed in laugher!
"Harry, a basilisk is no laughing matter! Bloody hell, I'm not sure I want to go back to Hogwarts!", the witch stated dramatically.
Harry tried to slow his fit of laughter enough to get out a reply between laughs. "It's already dead, Katie! I helped Dumbledore access the secret chamber years ago! Whoever goes into that chamber looking for a basilisk..." Harry started laughing again, and barely managed to finish his sentence, "... Can you imagine their face?!"
Katie Bell snorted. Then she started giggling. Then she joined Harry in full-blown laughter.
...
Harry spent a fun day with Katie, with Harry showing her his neighbourhood, introducing her to his Dursley family, and talking about Quidditch. Katie even treated him to lunch, given that it was nearly his birthday. Sadly, the day ended all too soon, and as Katie hugged Harry goodbye and shyly waved goodbye from the Knight Bus, Harry was hit by a worrying suspicion...
He was correct: he had a lot of letters to write, according to the stack of mail Dobby had surrendered back to him.
There were so many, in fact, that it took Harry two weeks to write all them all. It would have been sooner, but even more letters and packages came on his birthday, and he was trying to spend time talking to his magical family regularly, having the occasional dinner with Sirius, Remus or Cheveu, and spending quality time with Dudley.
Before Harry knew it, his time with the Dursleys was over, and he was saying goodbye to a saddened Dudley.
"I'll miss you, Harry! It's sad we only see each other in the summer", Dudley complained.
Harry nodded his agreement, then thought about it a little. "We could always try and meet up over Christmas and Easter, even just for a day", Harry suggested.
Dudley nodded eagerly. "Yes please, Harry!", then in a whisper, "Will you travel by magic?"
The doorbell sounded at that moment, so Harry just smiled and winked as a reply. One last hug between cousins, and Harry said goodbye, opened the door, hugged Sebastian and was whisked away to France.
...
"Fleur!"
"'arry!"
The two best friends ran towards each other and hugged tightly. Without the need for a word, the friends ran upstairs together to Fleur's bedroom, shut the door, dived onto Fleur's bed, cuddled up with each other very tightly, and started chattering away about the last four months... as if they hadn't spoken most days via the mirror.
Fleur was feeling torn. In some ways it was bliss to be like this with Harry: lying down on her bed, her head resting on his shoulder, her left hand running up and down Harry's arm, her legs entwined with his, and with Harry's right hand stroking her back. But in other ways it was exquisite torture: he still didn't show any desire to kiss her! He was now twelve, he should be thinking about girls non-stop! Especially when a fourteen year old, stunning, French girl was practically drooling over him! And given that he was drenched in her allure right now, he should be feeling something!
As if reading her mind, Harry's next comment proved he was feeling something, at least. "Fleur, I love it when I can feel your allure. It's stronger than before, and I feel like I can almost taste it." Then, as if unknowingly to tease her, Harry pulled Fleur tighter against himself, so that she could almost feel his heartbeat through their clothes.
Oh, if only he would try and taste her lips, Fleur thought! "Mmm... I'm glad you enjoy it. And I love when you hold me tight like this. But tell me, my cherished, what does my allure taste like?"
Harry chuckled, and given their closeness Fleur keenly felt the vibrations. It did not help her torture. "I said I could almost taste it. It makes me feel warm, and loved, and sometimes sort of makes me feel almost... I don't know", Harry explained.
Well, this could be progress, Fleur thought. Far from where she wanted to be, but then again her head still thought a long-distance relationship would be too hard. Her heart however, vehemently disagreed.
Sadly, Fleur didn't get to experience the pleasurable torture of being held by Harry for longer, as Gabrielle's voice called up impatiently, "Fleur! Stop keeping 'arry to yourself! I've missed him just as much as you have!".
Doubtful, Fleur thought, but not an argument worth having with her six-year-old sister.
...
Gabrielle was in heaven. She was sat sideways on her brother's lap, her arms wrapped around his chest whilst one of his arms cradled her and another ran fingers through her hair; Gabrielle was practically purring her contentment. And she smiled a big, adorable smile whenever Harry would absentmindedly kiss her head, right on the crown, like he always did.
They were chattering away, or at least Harry was – Gabrielle was just feeling too relaxed, as Harry fingers slid up and down through her long, silvery-blonde locks.
Harry was enjoying himself too – Gabrielle's hair was starting to feel a little more magical, and whilst it was nowhere near as strong as Fleur's, it still felt enjoyable to play with. Though it was making him feel a little calm and relaxed, which was strange – that was different to the tingling which Fleur's hair caused when he played with it. Something to consider another day.
The pair could easily have fallen asleep like that, with Gabrielle curled up on her big brother's lap, but Harry's chattering had just caused Gabrielle to have a Great Idea.
"Wait... say that last bit again?", Gabrielle asked a little sleepily.
"I said I wonder if I should try to learn how to give Fleur a better massage.", Harry repeated. "Just because she really seemed to like it when I massage her neck", Harry explained quickly.
By now, Harry's hands had stopped moving, allowing Gabrielle to come out of her relaxed stupor. "I think it's a great idea! And I think I know a book that might help", Gabrielle stated importantly.
Harry was now very curious. It hadn't occurred to him that a book might help, but now Gabrielle had suggested one it sounded obvious! Even better if there was one he could start reading later today! "Can you show it to me?", asked Harry eagerly.
Gabrielle nodded. "I'll go get it!"
A minute later, Gabrielle came back carrying a book. "Mama and Papa have this in their bedroom", Gabrielle explained.
Harry looked at the book curiously. "What does that word mean?" asked Harry, pointing to one of the title words of the book. "I know the first word – massage – but what's the other word?"
Gabrielle looked curiously. She tried sounding the word out, but no luck. "I don't know, I've never heard it before."
Shrugging, Harry opened the book. The first picture had him a bit worried. "She looks like she's frowning. That's not a good thing, no?"
Gabrielle returned Harry's shrug, then replied, "Maybe if you start reading, it will make sense?"
Later, Appoline would thank the fates that it was less than a minute before she and Sebastian came to see how Gabrielle and Harry were doing. They immediately spotted the book Harry and Gabrielle were sharing, and after squeaking involuntary Appoline rushed over to take it away.
"Mama, it's rude to snatch!", declared Gabrielle, outraged.
Appoline hastily thought up an excuse. "Sorry my little fly, but I'm not sure that book is one that you want to read."
Gabrielle replied determinately. "Yes it is, Mama! 'arry wants to learn how to give Fleur a massage, and your massage book would be perfect!"
Appoline had to try very hard not to either blush or laugh. Sebastian fared worse, as she heard him snort from just behind her. "I'm sure Fleur wouldn't mind", muttered Sebastian quietly.
"Sebastian! That's your daughter you're talking about!" exclaimed Appoline, half outraged and half amused.
"But am I wrong, my cherished?", Sebastian replied, amused.
Appoline tried not to giggle, and instead turned to Gabrielle and Harry. "These massages are much more difficult to do, and they're only for adults", Appoline explained, bending the truth a little. "You wouldn't want to hurt Fleur, would you?"
Harry shook his head rapidly in reply.
Appoline smiled, a little relieved. Sebastian then offered his suggestion. "Perhaps we could find you a more suitable massage book. We could go to the bookshop today, and choose something for each of you?". A classic distraction technique, and one that worked again.
However before they left, Appoline made sure to hide the book in a locked drawer. "Sensual Massage" was a very good but very adult book. She and Sebastian had put its information to lots of use, but it was not a book she wanted her children to read... at least not at their ages!
...
Harry had mixed emotions at the bookshop. Gabrielle had chosen another Harry Potter book, and had given him an unfairly adorable, wide-eyed gaze when she asked if he would read it to her at bedtime. But he had found a book called "Beginners' Massage", which Aunt Appoline had checked through and declared suitable.
The remainder of the day was good – dinner was Fleur's favourite fish stew, which Harry enjoyed. Harry was able to avoid reading Gabrielle the new book, at least for that day, as they had three chapters remaining from the book they had started earlier. And Harry even got a little time to read his new massage book, before he and Fleur went to bed.
...
A week later, and by unanimous vote, the Delacours and Harry were off to one of their favourite locations.
"HE HAS RETURNED!"
"Oh hell, not Idiot Simon again?! Quick, Barry, pretend you're asleep! Pretend you're dead! I can't eat another rat!"
"Not Idiot Simon, Geoff! It's The Chosen One – it's Harry!"
"YES! Oh, sweet merciful cobra! Harry, we've missed you so much!"
"Do they seem particularly excited today?", asked Fleur.
"Yes! They must be happy to see us!", exclaimed Gabrielle, excitedly.
"Hi Geoff, hi Barry. I missed you too. How are you?", Harry asked his favourite snakes.
"...well...", the snakes paused politely.
Harry laughed. "I understand. When did you last eat?"
"Six weeks ago", muttered Geoff.
"Why so long?", asked Harry worriedly.
"Because Idiot Simon tried to feed us rat again! And they weren't even nice rats, they looked like they died of plague!", replied Geoff.
"Smelled like something had chewed it and thrown it back up already", stated Barry, nodding wisely.
"But it'll all be alright soon, won't it, Harry?"
"Yeah, you're here to save our lovely, shiny skins, aren't you?"
Harry grinned, then called out, "Oh Godfather, are you there?"
As Sebastian walked round the corner and into view, the snakes cheered.
"VOLE WIZARD!"
"YES!"
Sebastian, who was chuckling at the snakes' obvious excitement – even if he couldn't understand what they were saying – turned to Harry. "Please ask these fine gentlemen what they would like for their dinner."
"Vole Wizard would like to know what...", Harry began, but was interrupted.
"V! O! L! E! VOOOOOOOOLE!", came Barry's usual request.
Harry laughed, then finished his sentence, "...what you fine gentlemen would like for your dinner."
"Did Vole Wizard really call us fine gentlemen?", asked Geoff?
Harry nodded. "Yes, because you are!"
"Oh, Harry, you charmer! But you already have a girlfriend!", teased Geoff.
"Wait, is Harry finally dating his best friend?", asked Barry. "I bet she was really pent up, Harry, you kept stringing her along for ages!"
Harry, blushing deeply, shook his head. "No, we're still just friends! And I'm not stringing her along!", Harry protested.
"Whaaaat? Boo! We really need to get your hormones working properly! Unless she's ugly, of course."
"Doesn't look ugly to us, but you can never be sure"
Harry shook his head quickly. "She's not ugly, she's really pretty! I mean... but..." Harry felt mortified; he needed to change topics. "ANYWAY, weren't you two hungry? What are you having, Geoff?"
Harry was pretty sure the snakes were laughing, but tried hard to ignore them. Eventually, an answer came. "You know what? I'll have vole, too. It's been a while."
"Yeah! Three cheers for voles!"
"Come on 'arry, you need to translate everything for us!", declared Gabrielle.
Inwardly, Harry knew there were parts of that conversation he would never reveal.
...
It was the evening before Harry would return to Hogwarts. He had enjoyed his four weeks with the Dursleys and his two weeks with the Delacours. He had finished all his homework, practised flying a little, and gotten even further ahead with potions. He had written to all his friends, with several letters each to Neville, Hermione, Katie and Ron. And he had been reading the massage book in his spare time.
He wasn't sure why he'd waited so long – he'd used the excuse of wanting to buy some almond oil for the massage, though perhaps he was a little nervous he wouldn't do a good job – but once Gabrielle was in bed, Harry told Fleur he wanted to try something with her.
So, a few minutes later, Fleur's bare feet were resting in Harry's lap. Then Harry warmed the oil in his hands, gently took Fleur's left foot, and began.
Over the next hour, Fleur decided she was going to marry Harry. There could be no other acceptable outcome. She had loved when Harry played with her hair, but this... Harry had gone out of his way to learn something new just for her, and it felt divine! Her feet had never felt so good!
Harry fingers had worked tension out of her that she didn't know she had! He had massaged her soles, her instep, even her heels! And he had done so lovingly, careful to work each and every tired muscle on each foot, applying just the right pressure – firm pressure on her heels and her soles, lighter pressure on her instep; he had even carefully and delicately massaged her toes, one by one!
Fleur had heard some of the older girls at Beauxbatons talk knowingly about foot massages, and she now understood. Had Harry wanted, and had he been less innocent in his ministrations, Fleur suspected he could convince her to try many things with him tonight. Though, if she was really honest with herself, that might not really be much different to any other night.
For his part, Harry was pleased Fleur was so obviously enjoying the massage – her quiet moans and whimpers told him everything he needed to know, and encouraged him to keep going, even when his hands started to feel a little tired. He also knew he would be returning to Hogwarts tomorrow, so wanted to treat his best friend in some way, before they were separated for a few months.
chapter 16
Narcissa Malfoy was smart. She had always been disgusted by the idiocy of others, especially the moronic general wizarding public that had let Purebloods get away with literal murder – albeit of muggles – for centuries, and hadn't done anything about it.
Of course, she didn't rely on other's idiocy... unlike her husband. He was normally clever, but to have been caught like he was after the Dark Lord's defeat was just embarrassing. Of course he was in Voldemort's inner circle, so would always have been doomed as soon as Veritaserum was used. Narcissa, however, had worked hard to maintain plausible deniability. She never knew what crimes her husband committed, only heavily suspected (and of course applauded), and could give a careful magical oath accordingly.
As such, she had escaped Azkaban, and had even been able to arrange for Draco to see his father occasionally. Speaking of which, she suspected Lucius had told Draco about a plan to terrorise the mudbloods and blood traitors at Hogwarts, and she suspected it had something to do with the diary she had let Draco take from their vault. She even suspected it involved the opening of the chamber of secrets and setting a basilisk upon the unworthy... but she didn't know.
Draco, for his part, was murderously excited. He had been trusted by his father with a glorious mission, one that could start wreaking vengeance upon his family's enemies – something which his mother had brought him up knowing. But she had also taught him how to be smart, and so the son of a convicted Death Eater did not show his true colours, especially not in his first year! He had kept his head down – something which had turned out well, given Marcus Flint's actions – so he should now be well-placed to bring righteous Pureblood judgement to Hogwarts!
As he boarded the train to Hogwarts, he was careful to let none of his excitement show. This year there would be a reckoning, he was sure, but no-one must suspect him yet!
...
Fleur kissed Harry goodbye, her lips lingering just next to his mouth, technically still on his cheek. Harry kissed her cheek in return, blushing a little, though he wasn't sure why.
A brief moment later, and Harry had been apparated to Platform 9 ¾, where he hugged Sebastian goodbye and boarded the train.
After waving goodbye to his Godson, Sebastian apparated to Hogwarts; he had an appointment with the Headmaster.
A brief walk across the castle grounds, then Dumbledore met him at the entrance hall.
"Sebastian! So good to see you, old friend. How are you?", welcomed Dumbledore.
"Very well, Albus, very well. And you?", asked Sebastian, smiling.
"Looking forward to welcoming a new batch of students, and welcoming the old batches back!", replied Dumbledore cheerfully. Sebastian was glad to see his old friend so cheerful.
"Anyway, I'm sure you'd like to finish in time to see Fleur off to Beauxbatons, so shall we?", asked Dumbledore.
At Sebastian's nod, they walked through to school towards the Headmaster's office. Once they had arrived and sat – with Sebastian taking a lemon drop for himself and an extra for Gabrielle – Dumbledore and Sebastian got down to business.
"The basilisk is clearly no threat to the school any longer. But there is the question of what to do about the student who seeks its release", began Dumbledore. "Whilst I have some ideas, I've found your input to be invaluable several times before, and I would be very interested in your ideas before I possibly influence them with mine."
Sebastian nodded. That much was covered in a brief floo conversation a few weeks ago, after Harry had told Sebastian about the house elf and Sebastian had informed Dumbledore. "'aving considered the matter, I believe we should watch and wait", he answered.
Dumbledore smiled at the answer. "Oh? Why wait?" He had thought similarly, though wanted to see how much their reasoning aligned.
Sebastian frowned. "We don't know 'ow someone could break into Salazar's chamber. It shouldn't be possible for a student. And that's without even thinking about controlling the Basilisk. If someone does access the chamber, I can only assume it would be under curse, compulsion, or with the aid of another. Given all the dark witches and wizards in your country are meant to be in Azkaban, we should move carefully to trap the culprit, then try them under Veritaserum to reveal all that they know."
Dumbledore nodded thoughtfully. "And how to monitor and trap the culprit?"
Sebastian smiled at the easy question. "Disillusioned 'ogwarts painting? Ghost? Listening charm? Guards? Personally, I would use several options, with one fairly obvious to discover, just in case the culprit has any sense."
Dumbledore nodded cheerfully. Sebastian was, as always, full of good ideas.
...
Harry was content. He had met up with his closest Hogwarts friends on the train – he shared a carriage with Neville, Hermione and Ron, and then Katie and Cheveu dropped by to say hi and dispense hugs. He had enjoyed the sorting and the Hogwarts feast (though he was a little overwhelmed by how eager the first year Colin was to meet him). He had managed to at least say hello to some of his less-close friends. And he had swapped plenty of stories about his summer.
The only downside was that Oliver Wood had smiled a little manically when talking about an "improved Quidditch regime" he had thought up over the summer, but Harry politely smiled and said that as long as it still kept to their deal, he was looking forward to it. If Oliver had looked slightly constipated after that reply, Harry hadn't mentioned it.
Harry had then gone up to his room to talk to Fleur, as if he hadn't spent the last two weeks with her. And after a brief conversation (at least, for them), Harry settled down, ready for the term ahead.
...
There was a few surprises that term for Harry, and the first happened in his first Potion lesson.
"Welcome students. Now, allow me to introduce myself. Many of you may think you know who I am, and perhaps a couple of you do, but most of you will be mistaken. I am Professor Hestia Jones, your new and fully-qualified Potions Professor", their previously-Assistant Professor explained.
Harry was the first to react. "Congratulations, Professor Jones!", Harry exclaimed, smiling. The rest of the class then added their congratulations, some only a half-second behind.
Jones smiled happily. "Thank you, thank you! Now, we have some interesting potions this year – second year has one of my personal favourite potions to learn, which we'll come to after Christmas... unless you get as far ahead as Harry.
"We'll also start using some more dangerous ingredients, so when we do I'll explain how to stay safe and what to watch out for. Any questions before we start some theory? No? Harry, if you're already familiar with the theory of what anticlockwise stirring does, go raid my stores and brew something interesting. Otherwise, sit and listen." Jones hoped it was the former – it would be good to see where Harry was now up to, and any potion he would brew would have anticlockwise stirring in it, providing a prime example for the theory part of the day.
...
Draco Malfoy knew what his father had instructed – that he should find some gullible mudblood or blood-traitor first year and slip the diary into their possession; that he should only use it himself as a last resort – but he couldn't resist! He wanted at least to see the chamber, and the great Salazar's creature, himself first!
So, within a few days of returning to Hogwarts, he carefully made his way to the chamber entrance. After conversing a little with the diary he blacked out for a few minutes – as expected – then found himself within the main chamber. This was it! The time of reckoning!
But as he looked around, there was no Basilisk. Something was very wrong! Panicking, Draco picked up the diary to write, but before he had, words began to fill the screen. "The Basilisk is missing! It's gone! Search the chamber, there must be clues somewhere!"
Draco swore, panicking even more. After a moment, he was speaking aloud to himself. "No, no, NO! It can't be gone! I will make my father proud! I will bring judgement onto the filth that Dumbledore allows into the school!"
Draco spent a few minutes searching the chamber, but there was no sign a basilisk had ever lived here – not even any shed skin!
A bright flash of light appeared in the corner of Draco's vision, and Draco turned towards it. If Draco had been panicking before, that was nothing compared to how he felt as he saw who stood before him. "NO! MY LORD POSSESS ME, DUMBLEDORE'S HERE!"
...
By the end of the day, Draco had been force-fed Veritaserum and the whole plan was known. A day later, and the malevolent diary had been disposed of by the goblins. By the end of the week, Narcissa and Lucius had also been force-fed Veritaserum, and now the Wizengamot was unsure how to proceed.
The members of the Wizengamot were horrified that a convicted prisoner was able to mastermind such a dangerous plot; the fact that it was only due to Dumbledore (aided by the goblins and an unnamed Parselmouth) that it had been foiled years ago was a mercy that shouldn't have been needed.
However, what else could they do? And what about other convicted Death Eaters who may pose a similar risk?
The Wizengamot session ended without a decision being made, with each member tasked with considering potential solutions to the problem. Dumbledore knew he would need to consult Sebastian again; he did not want to overburden his friend again so soon, but his insights were invaluable and may just be what the Wizengamot needed.
...
"...and that is the situation as it stands. I was hoping I might request your valuable suggestions once again, Sebastian."
Sebastian nodded outwardly, though inwardly he was amazed the Wizengamot hadn't thought of the obvious. "I may 'ave some suggestions, but first tell me – 'ow are the convicted Death Eaters currently guarded?"
Dumbledore nodded his approval of the question. "In our highest security prison, guarded by an Auror taskforce and a much larger contingent of dementors."
Sebastian blinked. Surely Dumbledore was joking? "You 'ave dementors guarding Voldemort's supporters?", he asked incredulously.
"Yes?" Dumbledore replied carefully.
Sebastian took a deep breath, and exhaled slowly. "In the war, whose side were the dementors on?", he asked.
Dumbledore blanched. Whilst it was never proven, there were suspicions that some of the dementors had joined Voldemort's cause.
Sebastian continued through Dumbledore's silence. "If 'e were to return, or another Dark Lord arose to take 'is place, what do you think would 'appen?"
Dumbledore now had his head in his hands; why hadn't he thought of this?! "Sebastian, this makes the problem far worse than I had initially thought. What do you suggest?" A brief pause, and then, "You can't mean...?"
Sebastian nodded grimly. "I suspect it is your only option, especially as you've proved that 'is supporters continue to champion 'is cause, even from gaol.
"Besides", Sebastian continued, "some would consider it a mercy."
...
The Wizengamot had initially baulked at the idea. Dumbledore had resorted to questioning Lucius again under Veritaserum, where he had revealed that Voldemort had almost convinced the dementors to join him before his downfall.
That had swayed a clear majority in the Wizengamot, so Dumbledore's proposal was accepted: the majority of the Death Eaters – those who, under Veritaserum, held no remorse for horrifying crimes – were thrown through the veil.
Others, who showed remorse or whose crimes were lesser - including the newly incarcerated Narcissa and Draco – were still held in Azkaban for now, until an alternative could be found.
Separately, research would begin on how to permanently deal with Dementors – the thought that the next Dark Lord or Lady might recruit them to their cause was sufficient motivation.
The only remaining question was what to do with estates of those like the Lestranges, where there were no surviving family members. Dumbledore suggested first that the goblins be commissioned to remove and destroy any dark artefacts in their vaults or property that could be particularly dangerous, which the Wizengamot readily agreed to. As for the rest, it was agreed a third would go to magical orphans from the first wizarding war, a third would go to other magical families who were bereaved due to Voldemort and his Death Eaters, and the final third would fund a new wizarding prison and ways to permanently deal with Dementors.
...
Harry's second surprise that term came via an announcement in the third week of term, at dinner. Harry had been in a good mood, having spoken to the sorting hat earlier and hearing one of the hat's favourite stories about Rowena Ravenclaw, and her magically-enlarged pet hamster.
That good mood turned to confusion and curiosity during the meal. Dumbledore had stood up, his face grave, and announced that Draco Malfoy had been found guilty of planning to attack another student; that he had been expelled, had his wand snapped, and would never be seen again at Hogwarts. The similarities to Marcus Flint from only a year ago were not lost on the second years and above.
The Slytherin table looked shocked; Draco had disappeared towards the end of the first week of term, and the students were understandably worried about one of their own. But to hear that someone like Draco – who hadn't shown the same worrying signs as Marcus – had tried to attack another student was shocking. It also made the upper year students seriously rethink any plans for troublemaking they might have had; that is, if their head of house, Kingsley Shacklebolt, hadn't already done so.
As for the rest of the student body, including Harry, there was confusion and curiosity – who had Draco tried to attack? Once again there was no-one injured, so no indication of who the target might have been.
...
By the mid-point of the term, it was unknown which first year idolised Harry more – Colin or Ginny. Colin was more obvious, regularly (and excitedly) asking Harry anything and everything he could think of; but Ginny would often just stare longingly at Harry for a few seconds, then seem to snap out if it and get on with something else.
Hermione and Neville had both noticed Ginny's actions, but didn't really know what, if anything, they should do about it. Harry had no idea, of course; Hermione and Neville had discussed Harry's cluelessness about girls together a couple of times. Ron also had no idea, but that may have been because he was unwilling to admit his younger sister had crushes... or maybe he was just too busy studiously avoiding his homework for as long as possible.
But there was one person who had noticed and decided to try and help – however unwanted that help may be.
"Hi Ginny", came a soft voice.
Ginny turned to see who had interrupted her Harry-watching. Ah. It was Miss. Fierce Competition. "Hello Katie. How are you?", Ginny replied politely.
Katie smiled. "Good thanks. How about you? How are you settling in?"
"I'm good, thank you. And I'm settling in well, Hogwarts is a good school", Ginny replied, again politely.
Katie smiled an encouraging smile. "And it has some interesting students attending?"
Ginny's guard immediately came up then. "I don't know what you mean, Katie."
Katie gave a wistful smile, then continued gently. "I've seen you watching him, Ginny. And I thought you should know that he's pretty much already taken."
Ginny scowled, all politeness gone. In a quiet but fierce tone, she replied, "If you think you can just claim him like that, then you're wrong! I already know he's not dating anyone, who knows why, but whilst Harry's still single I won't let anyone tell me..."
Katie held her hands up in surrender. "Woah now, Ginny, I'm not here to try to get rid of the competition." Katie sighed heavily. "I'm here to suggest you do what I'm trying to do: give up on a hopeless cause."
Ginny's eyes were still narrow as she replied, "What is that supposed to mean?"
Katie sighed again. "You might think of me as your main competition for his affection, but if you do then you're wrong. The girl you should be wary of is his best friend."
Ginny looked incredulous. "His best friend? Who, Hermione?! Wait, do you mean that older Hufflepuff he spends so much time with? But she's like his big sister, isn't she?!" A look of horror came across Ginny's face. "She's a Metamorphmagus, Katie, that's not even fair!", Ginny finished with a whine.
Katie shook her head sadly. "No Ginny, it's not Cheveu. It's much, much worse. Tell me, have you ever heard Harry talk about Fleur?"
Ginny looked overwhelmed. Who were all these girls?! "No? Maybe? Who is she?"
Katie's head dropped sadly. "Harry's best friend. His gorgeous, sweet, flirty, French, fourteen-year-old, Veela best friend. And, by all accounts, she wants him desperately."
Ginny's heart plummeted. "But then why aren't they...?"
Katie gave a wan smile. "Honestly, to hear him talk about her you might think they are. But Harry seemingly hasn't hit puberty yet – he doesn't seem to fancy anyone at the moment – but I guarantee you that once he does, it'll be Fleur."
Ginny looked heartbroken, but Katie knew false hope wouldn't help the girl. On that note, she tried to remove any doubt. "Don't just take my word for it; ask Ron, or Hermione, or Cheveu – the older Hufflepuff – about her."
Ginny nodded morosely, thanked Katie, then dashed off to her dorm. She needed a bit of time to be alone.
...
Harry's third surprise of the term came just before the Christmas holidays. Harry had been reflecting on how positive the term had been – another Quidditch victory, classes going well, time spent with friends and talking with family, no rampaging monsters – when he received a letter at breakfast. That in itself was odd, as most of the people who might contact him would do so via the mirrors. But when he saw the Gringotts seal on the letter, he was very curious.
As he opened the letter and read its contents, his mouth fell open. This... it couldn't be right, could it? He glanced across the Gryffindor table to Neville, who also had a letter in hand and a shocked look on his face.
"Neville... Did you...?" Harry croaked.
Neville nodded dumbly, then showed Harry the figure; it matched his.
Hermione, from her seat next to Neville, asked the question that Ron and Katie, sat either side of Harry, were wondering. "What is it? What do those letters say?"
Neville still looked shell-shocked, so Harry opened his mouth to reply. But before he could, Susan Bones, one of the Hufflepuffs that Harry had befriended, came over with her own letter. "Harry? Neville? Did you...?"
Neville and Harry nodded.
"But it's... I mean, if you got as much as I did...", Susan stated, still in a state of disbelief.
Harry showed Susan his figure. She nodded, then sat down at the Gryffindor table in shock.
Hermione tried again. "What do those letters say? It must be really terrible if you're all so stunned!", she stated.
Neville let out a high-pitched laugh. "Terrible?! No, it's just..."
Susan cleared her throat, then answered carefully. "We're getting compensation from convicted Death Eaters for the death of our parents. I only knew this was coming because of my aunt, but the amount... I'm just a bit surprised."
Hermione looked saddened by the reply and Ron looked like he was about to put his foot in it, but Katie inadvertently saved him by replying first. "We're sorry for your loss, all of you. I know it won't replace your mums and dads, but I'm glad something good has come from it, no matter how small."
Harry, Neville and Susan all gave small smiles in thanks.
...
Three days later, an excited Harry was getting onto the Hogwarts express, looking forward to another two weeks with the Delacours. Neville, Hermione and Ron joined him in the carriage initially, and soon into the journey Cheveu opened the carriage door.
Harry patted the seat next to him, excitedly. "Hey sis! Come join us!"
Cheveu smiled affectionately. "Well, if you insist! What are you all up to, anyway?"
Harry smiled, then leaned into Cheveu as she sat down. Cheveu put an arm around her little brother in response. "Well, Ron's trying to find his next chess victim but neither Hermione or Neville want to lose again."
"I might win!", Hermione stated indignantly, though internally recognised the probable outcome.
Cheveu gave a calculating look. "Why not both? You could put up a localised silencing charm so that you could talk in private when you need to, and maybe together you might challenge Ron?"
Hermione and Neville shared a look. With a shrug from Neville and a determined nod from Hermione, it was agreed.
Whilst they were playing, Cheveu and Harry caught up.
"I feel like sometimes I don't see you enough during the term. It's silly that we have separate common rooms", complained Harry.
"Well, if you'd been sorted into Hufflepuff..." hinted Cheveu, not for the first time.
Harry rolled his eyes, though it was with affection. "Yes, but what can we do about it now. It just seems silly, that's all."
Cheveu thought, then smiled. Grinned, really. "Well, why not come visit?"
"What, over the holidays? We've already planned that", stated Harry.
Cheveu shook her head, still grinning. "No, I mean the Hufflepuff common room!"
Harry, who had still been leaning against Cheveu up until that point, turned to face her. Spotting her grin, one of his own grew on his face. "Well... What's the worst that could happen?"
...
After several close chess games – with both sides believing they were one game ahead – and after several friends popped by to say hello – including Katie, Daphne and Susan – the train finally arrived in London.
The students got off the train, then Harry grinned as he spotted Sebastian. Straight away, Harry ran up to his Godfather and then threw his arms around him. Cheveu followed, keen to say hello, then said goodbye to Harry and went to find her mum.
After Harry had said goodbye to his friends – including getting hugs from Hermione and Katie – he had a request of Sebastian.
"Uncle Sebastian, can we visit Diagon Alley quickly before we go home?", Harry asked hopefully.
"We could. What do you need from there?", Sebastian asked, curious.
"I want to visit Gringotts. I want to transfer some money to their French branch", Harry explained, a hint of a blush on his face.
Sebastian chuckled. "Oh? Still honouring your deal with Fleur?"
Harry looked affronted. Like his honour had been besmirched in the most appalling way. "Of course! Why wouldn't I be?!"
Sebastian smiled disarmingly. "No, I shouldn't have doubted you. But does that mean you received a little money somehow this term?"
Harry grinned and shook his head. "Not 'a little' money, no", he replied cheekily.
"You can find out after Fleur finds out", Harry added with certainty.
chapter 17
"Fleur!"
"'arry!"
This time Harry picked Fleur up as they embraced, spinning her around with a joyful smile on his face. Fleur's infectious laughter could be heard for some distance, and when Harry put her down a few seconds later her cheeks were flushed and her eyes sparkled.
Fleur kissed Harry's cheeks lovingly, then asked a question, still smiling merrily. "What was that for, my cherished?"
Harry grinned. "I just really missed you, Fleur."
Fleur blushed. He was so sweet; why was he always so sweet?!
"Come on, cuddle time!" Harry announced, and with that they raced upstairs together, into Fleur's room. Fleur lay down on her bed first, holding out her arms and with a beaming smile. Harry lay down next to her, one arm sliding under her neck, the other pulling her waist against him.
Fleur sighed happily. She loved cuddling with Harry, and was craving this more and more as the months and years went on. Her allure pouring off of her, eyes staring lovingly into Harry's, Fleur started one of her favourite conversations. "Tell me about our future house, 'arry."
Harry smiled broadly. "Which part, Fleur?"
Fleur leaned forward an inch or two to kiss Harry's cheek. Twice. Leaning back just enough so that she could gaze into his gorgeous eyes again, Fleur answered. "Where will we live?"
Harry grinned cheekily. "In the house!"
Fleur hit Harry's arm lightly, then caressed it – purely to emphasise her displeasure, she told herself. "'arry..."
Harry just giggled, before replying properly. "Maybe in France? Northern France, so it's easy to apparate to London?"
Fleur looked pleased at that answer. Nevertheless, she wanted to check. "Are you sure, my cherished? If you wanted us to live in England..."
Harry shook his head, still smiling happily. "It doesn't really matter to me – magic can get us anywhere! But you said before you'd like to live in France, and I want my best friend to be happy!"
Fleur nearly kissed him right there. She was so tempted, and given how close they were it would be so easy... but she wasn't yet sure how he felt, and she wasn't sure about risking everything over a long distance relationship. Instead, she squeezed him tight. "You're so good to me, my cherished."
After a few moments, Fleur asked another question. "Where in northern France? Would we live in a city, in the country, by the beach?"
Harry looked astounded, and answered in the only way a twelve year old would. "We can live by the beach?!"
...
An hour later, Harry and Gabrielle were walking hand in hand to a Surprise Location. Whilst Harry had missed Fleur the most, he had still missed Gabrielle terribly and was now on a quest to spend some quality time with her.
"Is it to the ice-cream shop?", asked Gabrielle, guessing for the seventh time.
"No, my little fly. It's too cold for ice-cream!", Harry responded, smiling at Gabrielle's enthusiasm.
Gabrielle shook her head vehemently. "'arry, don't say such horrible things! It's never too cold for ice-cream!"
Grinning, Harry squeezed Gabrielle's small, six-year-old hand affectionately. "Well, that's not the surprise. You can have one more guess."
"Two!" countered Gabrielle, with confidence.
"Ok, two more guesses", surrendered Harry, merrily.
"Are we going to the park?", suggested Gabrielle hopefully.
Harry shook his head with amusement. "Not today, but maybe later in the holiday?"
Gabrielle thought hard, then guessed her final guess. "Are we going to Disneyland?"
Harry laughed. "Not today. But that's a good idea for another time. Maybe when I can apparate."
Gabrielle squeezed Harry's hand excitedly. "Can we really go to Disneyland when you're older?"
Harry looked down into Gabrielle's adorable, hopeful eyes, and had no choice but to reply: "Of course. But only when I can apparate both of us!"
A couple of minutes later, and Harry tugged lightly on Gabrielle's hand, pointing to the location they had just reached. "Here we are, Gabrielle"
Gabrielle's eyes shone with joy. "Is this the surprise?"
Harry nodded happily. "I thought you might enjoy afternoon tea at Celeste's with your big brother. And you can have anything."
Gabrielle looked ready to burst with excitement; Celeste's was a patisserie that specialised in Le Goûter – French afternoon tea – but it was very expensive and Gabrielle had only ever looked longingly inside. "Can I have a hot chocolate? And a Macaron?"
Harry schooled his face into a grave expression, or at least he tried to; thankfully it was at least good enough to fool a six year old. "No, Gabrielle, I'm sorry but you can't."
Gabrielle's face fell, but only for the half second until Harry continued. "Macarons are much too small, so you'll have to have at least two. And also maybe a cake."
Gabrielle squealed in delight.
...
By the end of the holidays, Harry had to admit he had splurged a little. But Celeste's was so good that he had needed to go back again with Gabrielle. Then with Fleur. Then with Dudley, though Vernon wasn't told. He might have taken Cheveu, but they had met up at Sirius', rather than the Delacours'; maybe another time.
All too soon, though, Harry found himself back on the Hogwarts express, sat with Neville, Hermione and Ron. They were just discussing their holidays – with Ron drooling at the sound of Celeste's – when the carriage door opened.
"Hey Ginny. Forget something?", asked Ron, clueless.
"Just coming to say hi. I though maybe... wait, were you talking about food again?", Ginny asked.
"What do you mean?", Ron asked defensively. Harry, Neville and Hermione just watched on, curious and hoping for entertainment. Ginny didn't disappoint.
"Your mouth's watering! I can tell!", Ginny pointed out, smiling mischievously.
"No it isn't!", Ron denied.
"Uh huh. Harry, settle this for me – what were you talking about just now?", Ginny asked casually.
Ron shook his head desperately, but Harry merely grinned and answered honestly. "The most delicious patisserie in France; about the cakes, the pastries, the hot chocolates, the..."
"Harry! You're making me hungry!", Ron complained.
"You're making us all hungry! I love the Patisseries in France, did you have Le Goûter?", Hermione asked curiously.
Harry nodded, smiling at the memory. Well, memories. "Soooo many times!"
"You were in France for Christmas?" asked Ginny, curiously.
Harry nodded. "That's where the Delacours live, so I'm there quite a lot."
Ginny probed more. "Who are the Delacours?", she asked, all smiles.
A few whispers, whilst Harry was distracted with answering: "Here we go..." "Watch his face" "I know!"
"Well, Sebastian and Appoline are my Godparents. Gabrielle is my little sister – not by blood, but sort of like adopted except I never adopted her. And then Fleur – she's my best friend."
Ginny fought to keep the smile on her face. "I didn't know your best friend was French. What's she look like?", Ginny asked, giving the game away to half the carriage's occupants.
"She's quite pretty", Harry answered with a bit of a blush.
Ron, however, stuck the knife in and twisted. "'Quite pretty? Are you daft?! She's gorgeous, mate! Absolutely gorgeous!"
Ginny, somehow kept smiling for the few extra second needed. "She sounds nice. Anyway, I'll leave you alone. Bye Ron, bye everyone."
Ginny hadn't disbelieved Katie per se, but you didn't just give up on a crush without being sure. Sadly, that conversation had confirmed almost everything Katie had said, and went even further – he'd taken her on dates to a romantic cafe already, and they weren't even together!
As the last remnants of her dreams were crushed, Ginny knew it was time to move on. Maybe there were other boys who weren't already all-but-taken.
...
A few days later, Harry was being pulled through Hogwarts by a very excited Hufflepuff. "It's going to be fun seeing the reactions; I don't know why no-one else tries this!"
Harry smiled at his big sister. "Where is it?"
Cheveu stopped in front of a painting. "Just through here", she replied. Then, addressing the painting, "Badger Friendship!"
The door opened, and Harry and Cheveu stepped into the Hufflepuff common room. The first thing Harry noticed was the yellow and black. The second thing Harry noticed was the silence.
"Erm, Cheveu, I don't think... I mean, other houses aren't allowed in our common room", stated an older student Harry didn't know.
"Says who?", replied Cheveu cheekily.
"Well... I mean... You see...", came the stuttering reply.
"No, seriously, says who? I've never been told we can't have guests. I've never read it either. Have you?", replied Cheveu, challengingly.
The student stopped, trying to remember. It was the rules, wasn't it?
"Oh, leave them alone, she just wants to spend some time with her brother", came another voice.
Cheveu nodded confidently, then led Harry past the older student and towards the sofas. But before they got there, a hand grabbed Harry's shoulder to stop him.
Harry turned, and was engulfed in a tight hug. "Harry! Welcome to our common room!", exclaimed Susan.
Harry returned the hug, smiling. "Thanks, Susan. Cheveu invited me, and who turns down the chance to see their big sister?"
Harry sat down next to Cheveu, then as was habit he leaned into her whilst she put her arm around him. Susan followed, looking curious. "So what's that all about, anyway? I assume you're not actually... I mean, I assume you're not blood related, right?"
Cheveu smiled, then explained. "Nah, not by blood, but then you don't have to be blood to be family, right?". Susan nodded, so Cheveu continued. "The way my Uncle tells it, the first time Harry and I meet I declare him my little brother and he agrees, and it's been like that since."
Harry nodded happily. Susan, however, had an important question. "So... You two aren't dating then?"
Cheveu raised an eyebrow and Susan fought against a blush – difficult, given her pale complexion and freckles.
Harry shook his head very quickly. "You don't date your sister!", Harry declared emphatically.
Susan smiled a little at that. Cheveu sighed and shook her head; maybe she would have to have a quiet word later, for Susan's own sake. But honestly, just how many admirers would her little brother get?! She'd already had to pre-empt a couple of girls already – after all, those seventh years were clearly just after the fame – but maybe she would need to have some of her conversations with Fleur in the common room?
Harry spent a fun couple of hours with Cheveu, with Susan hanging around for a while and some other Hufflepuffs coming to say hi throughout. Eventually, though, it got uncomfortably close to curfew and one of the prefects came over. "Erm, Harry, you'd better get back to your common room. You'll get into trouble at this rate."
Harry smiled mischievously. "Don't worry, I won't be caught as long as I solemnly swear I'm up to no good."
Cheveu laughed, though the prefect looked confused. Harry continued, "Don't worry, I'll head back. 'night sis, night everyone!"
With one big hug to Cheveu, and to a hopeful-looking Susan who had wandered over again, Harry pulled out a very special sheaf of parchment and made his way back to Gryffindor Tower.
...
A few weeks later, Professor Jones was excited. She had been looking forward to her next lesson for a while, as it would hopefully be a great reminder of why her subject was quite obviously the best. As the second year Gryffindors and Slytherins stepped into the classroom, they noticed a large rock, about a metre wide, sitting heavily on her desk.
"Good morning class, come and sit down", Jones said, excitedly.
Harry, grinning, sat down. He had done the "homework" that Jones had set him as part of preparing for this lesson.
Once the class had sat, Jones continued. "There's a large rock on my desk. That's weird, I know. But here's a challenge:", Jones paused to pull ten galleons out of her cloak and put them on the table, next to the rock. "Anyone who can lift the rock, without a wand, wins the galleons. Who wants to go first?"
Hands shot up into the air, and Harry and Jones' entertainment began. One by one, the whole class (except Harry) had a go, failing miserably – the rock must have weighed a ton! Once everyone else had taken their turn, Jones turned to Harry. "Mr. Potter? Want to show them how it's done?"
Harry, grinning, stood up. He walked confidently to the front, next to the professor. He took out a small vial. He uncorked the vial and drank it. He turned towards the rock. And then, grinning, he punched right through it, smashing it to pieces.
Cries of amazement rang out from the class. Jones started clapping, at which point the rest of the class followed suit.
"And that, class, is why potions are brilliant. What you saw Harry drink was a fourth-year strength potion – 20 points for Gryffindor, by the way, Harry – and as you can see, it's very potent.
"Now, when I set you homework about the uses of potions, you might think it's boring", Jones continued.
Murmurs of agreement could be heard. "But you're thinking about it wrong. Who wants to fight Harry, right now?", Jones asked, suddenly.
Silence.
"Who wants to arm wrestle Harry?"
More silence.
"Who would want Harry's help moving heavy boxes?"
Hands shot into the air.
Jones continued teaching. "There are thousands of uses for potions, and you're limited only by his boring you are. Today, Harry proved that you can use a strength potion for teaching, destroying rocks, and showing off. When I next set you homework, be creative – after all, nothing is stopping you brewing these anytime, when you can afford the ingredients."
The class sat, stunned. They hadn't thought of potions like that before.
"Now, we'll be learning about a strength potion today – weaker than the one Harry made, but still quite potent. Pay attention, and learn. Harry – go brew something interesting, but please be careful not to punch my supplies", Jones finished, smiling.
...
Towards the end of term, whilst Harry was in the common room late one evening studying some fourth-year potions, he had an unusual call on his mirror.
"'arry?", came a familiar voice.
Quickly dropping what he was doing, Harry picked up his mirror. "Aunt Appoline! How are you?"
Appoline gave a tired smile. "I'm doing alright, Harry, how about you?"
Harry gave a concerned look. "I'm doing well. But is something wrong, Aunt Appoline?"
Appoline shook her head. "Nothing big; Gabrielle has had a nightmare, and she's convinced something terrible has happened to you. Can you speak to her, so she knows you're ok?"
Harry nodded, eager to help. And to talk to his sister. "Of course!"
Appoline smiled, then passed the mirror over to Gabrielle. "Harry! Is that really you?"
Harry nodded, smiling. "It's really me, my little fly."
Gabrielle started crying happy tears. "I was so worried! Mama was teaching me about seers, but then I dreamt that you'd eaten too many pastries from Celeste's, but not our Celeste's but one in 'ogwarts. But then that made everyone mad at you because there was none left for anyone else, then you got into a duel, but then you lost, and you were badly hurt, and I was so worried!"
"But if you knew it was just a dream, why were you so worried, angel?", asked Harry, a little confused.
"Because what if I was a seer, and it had really happened?! And the dream seemed so real, so I thought it might be!", Gabrielle explained, with the logic of a six year old.
Harry smiled and shook his head. "There's no Celeste's at Hogwarts, so it's impossible. And besides, I wouldn't eat all the pastries – I'd save many for you!"
Gabrielle laughed a little, through the tears. Harry continued, "But just in case, if Celeste's ever moves to Hogwarts, I'll try to share the pastries nicely with everyone."
Gabrielle was cheering up at this point, but Harry knew there was one thing he could do to really help, and to get her ready for going back to sleep. "Now, shall I tell you a story?"
Gabrielle nodded excitedly. "Yes please!"
Harry began. "Once upon a time, there was a princess named Gabrielle, who had a dragon as a best friend..."
Twenty minutes later, after Appoline had quietly thanked Harry for cheering Gabrielle up and getting her back to sleep, Harry looked up and found several eyes in the common room looking at him.
"What?", Harry asked, eloquently.
"Were you just reading your little sister back to sleep after a nightmare?", asked Katie, her expression unreadable.
"Erm... Yes?", replied Harry, a little uncertain.
Katie threw her arms around Harry affectionately. "That's so cute!", she exclaimed. Those watching nodded their agreement.
Harry blushed, but would have coped. Hermione, however, made it worse. "Were you making up a story about her being a princess? And making friends with a baby dragon? And going on adventures?", she asked amused.
Harry started to blush deeper; he'd forgotten Hermione could speak French. "Well... Erm...", Harry explained clearly.
Katie just ruffled his hair. "You're so sweet!"
...
The Easter holidays, and the rest of the year, passed without anything else unusual. Harry won his Quidditch games, with Susan pouting at him when he beat Hufflepuff. He continued to do well in his studies, coming top of his class again in Defence Against the Dark Arts and excelling in potions – where he could brew all the third year and many fourth year potions. He had spent a few evenings in the Hufflepuff common room with Cheveu, and had even had her visit the Gryffindor common room twice. And Harry had, of course, spent many, many hours talking to his magical family.
All too soon, though, Harry was boarding the Hogwarts express, ready to spend four weeks with the Dursleys and two weeks with the Delacours.
He sat with Neville, Hermione and Ron for the most part, but dropped by a few different carriages to say goodbye to some other friends – Katie ("Let's meet up again this summer!"), Cheveu ("Don't forget you're having dinner with me, Uncle Sirius and Uncle Remus this Thursday!"), Fred and George ("Do you want a chocolate?" "No, Harry, not that one - only the round ones are safe"), Daphne ("Don't forget to write back... this time!" "Hey! That was the house elf!" "Haha, I know!"), and Susan ("Will you write to me, Harry?").
Eventually, the train arrived in London, and Harry saw Remus waiting on the platform. Running up to him and giving him a warm hug, Harry asked, "Uncle Remus! Are you here for me?"
Remus smiled. "Of course! I had the day off, and Sirius was... busy... at the last minute, apparently. Now, can you tell me who Susan Bones is? I have a suspicion."
Harry pointed out the redhead to Remus, though he was a little confused. "Uncle Remus? What was Uncle Sirius busy doing?"
"I think you mean who, not what", Remus muttered with a grin, though Harry didn't quite catch it.
"Huh?", asked Harry.
Remus shook his head. "Nevermind. Now, is she ok? I can't see her guardian anywhere, can you?"
Harry had no idea what her guardian looked like, but Susan clearly couldn't see her, and looked a little lost. Catching sight of Harry, Susan came over. "Hello Harry. Can you see my Aunt anywhere?", Susan asked, a little worried.
"Hi Susan. What does she look like?", Harry asked.
Susan answered, starting to look around again. "She has red hair like mine, she sometimes wears glasses but sometimes just one glass, she..."
Remus pointed to someone who just apparated in, looking fairly disheveled. "Is that her?"
Susan nodded, a relieved smile on her face. "Yes! Thank you Sir! Bye, Harry!"
Harry looked confused, especially as Remus chuckled and muttered, "I knew it!"
...
Tom Marvolo Riddle barely clung onto life. His wraith form was so weak, and he was in near-constant agony. What had gone wrong with his Horcruxes?! He needed to know! But as he tried to recall them all, he felt his memory slipping. There was the snake, the ring, the locket... but what else? Something to do with a notebook, or journal? Something else to do with a cup? Tom panicked anew – were his memories failing?! He had to get back to England, he had to check on his Horcruxes! But how? He needed one of his followers, but where were they?! WHERE WERE THEY?!