910Harry Potter's Secret Weapon
**OO**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
Fall is coming, and with it Halloween.
Thanks go to previous great authors: Robst, Old Crow, Sinyk, and many others. I have been following BeepKeeper. Fun. And of course, the original JK Rowling who lets us play in the sandbox.
I will clean up all of the characters before I put most of them away. What do you mean I can't keep Sirius Black?
**OO**
Disclaimer - I am editing this to put the long disclaimer and the cast of characters at the end of this document. I don't own Harry Potter, it all belongs to others. I just appreciate being able to build sand castles.
This is not a roller coaster. Try Big Black Dog or Child of Prophecy if you want a one-shot, fast paced, sort of story. This is going to be a slow build, having a few different plots going on.
**OO**
Chapter 1 - Invitations to the World Cup
Harry Potter was thrilled with the invitation to the Quidditch World Cup he had received from his godfather. Padfoot had made arrangements for a private box, even. How brilliant was that! The Weasleys and the Longbottoms would be invited, and someone named Tonks.
Harry had a very faint memory of a spiky-haired Hufflepuff seventh year when he was a wee firstie. Could it be her? Probably not.
After only two weeks back from Hogwarts, Harry was past ready to be away from Privet Drive, despite getting to go to defense three times and potions classes twice a week so far.
His maternal aunt's house was not a happy place. Period. A place where he was overworked, underfed, and treated worse than any house-elf that he knew. Except for maybe Dobby, an elf Harry was still a bit leery of.
Harry had done a lot of investigation into those magical creatures due to said Dobby.
The original professor for Care of Magical Creatures last year was going to be Hagrid. However with no wand rights, and his first class 'practically depriving the Malfoy line of its only heir' had Hagrid back to his old job before anyone could say quidditch. The new professor was a no-nonsense woman who didn't think of Class XXXXX monsters as 'cute and cuddly'.
Malfoy wanted Hagrid tried for attempted murder and accused him of using a hippogryff in revenge for what had happened to Hagrid the year before. Dumbledore managed to keep Hagrid from the terrible prison, but was unable to secure his teaching post. At least he was still the Keeper of the Keys.
Professor Wilhelmina Grubbly-Plank's class was far more like what Harry expected for COMC. Despite having enjoyed the ride on Buckbeak. The essay on House-elves was one of the few that Harry had accidentally turned in the 'best' version for grading. Hermione beamed at him for his O+. Fortunately, they had been alone when she had discovered that paper.
The Hat wasn't wrong for wanting to put Harry in Slytherin. He read ALL of his books, wrote a superb essay for everything before turning in a mediocre one as the ONLY grades that really mattered were OWLS.
Harry had no desire to live up to anyone's expectations but his own. And maybe Hermione's.
At least Harry and Hermione were able to rescue the condemned beast along with Harry's godfather at the end of the school year.
A godfather who loved him! Who wanted to be family with him!
Harry destroyed a hundred dementors in defense of this man just because he needed that love, that connection, so very badly in his life.
His patronus was so strong because it was an embodiment of the joy and love that Harry felt. A family bond that Harry so desperately wished for with the Dursleys when he was younger. A bond that had been denied again and again.
This man WAS family. And his magic, weak as it was through lack of food and decent sleep, had wrapped around Harry when the wizard offered for Harry to live with him. A cloak of love that Harry never wanted to remove.
Harry could have powered a patronus strong enough to destroy every dementor in the world with that surge of joy. Harry had a family now, had a godfather!
A godfather who was secretly Lord Black and sent Harry not just his own Potter heir ring, but the heir ring for his grandmother's House of birth. The House of Black.
Sent by a bright plumaged bird, no less. A package that included a book on the responsibilities of an heir of a Great House. Or in Harry's case, two of them!
Sirius was trying to figure out how to get his freedom legally, and was out of the country until that could be arranged. A time for healing as well, but Lord Black was very clear that he planned to be with Harry next summer regardless of legalities or meddling headmasters or any other issues. And would make arrangements so they could at least visit a bit this summer!
Harry's reaction to the delay was a sad and frustrated sigh. Typical of his life; he finally has someone to be with, then can't see them. His reaction to additional books was mixed. Part of him was excited to learn more of his father's family's customs and heritage. That was the eager academic side, inherited from his mother.
But another side was worried about his best mate's reaction to his studies. 'Great, yet more sneaking and hiding around Ron'. Harry sneaking into Runes and Arithmancy and keeping that secret from his friend was hard enough. Attending class in his family's invisibility cloak so that Harry wouldn't be kicked out was one thing. Keeping it quiet from Ron Weasley so he wouldn't be jealous was another.
At least this sneaking was aided by Hermione and her time-turner. Harry, in turn, made a suggestion that aided Hermione greatly.
Harry suggested that she add extra hours to her day to sleep and eat, not just attend additional classes. Her stress level had gone down immensely, as did Harry's. Stupid old men trying to prevent him from learning. Sneaking around to go to class? Why had that been necessary?!
It had to be done so that Dumbledore wouldn't try to stop him from gaining more information. The man had declined Harry's initial changes from Magical Creatures and Divination to Runes and Arithmancy after the first week, as would normally be allowed by the school charter.
At least Harry could show Hagrid he tried to support his first and largest friend by trying to drop out after the gentle half-giant was sacked as the instructor.
Harry planned to try and get as many O's on his OWLS as his mother. A woman that he now knew much better thanks to Remus Lupin. A man who had been friends with both of his parents. One who loved to share stories of them with both Harry and Hermione when they were resting during their very secret private lessons. Lessons that Moony had insisted upon after hearing of Harry's first two years at Hogwarts.
The werewolf was the best professor he'd ever had for DADA up to that point. Just as Alastor Moody was likely to be next year. Another man giving Harry secret lessons during the summer thanks to 'Unca Moony' and his innocent godfather.
How he and his godfather wanted to live together! But couldn't. Snape's face was on one of the training dummies in Mad-eye's basement. Master Auror Moody, Retired, had a folder on Snape that was at least an inch thick. The man was a DEATH EATER! Snape carried a terrible tattoo that was a soul-bond to the dark one. (Moody never said his name, and got after Harry for saying it). Alastor said that any marked follower had done murder and worse to gain the dark mark.
Snape actually hadn't, but no one knew about that. The Dark Lord had his people recruit the newly minted Potions Master; a man who was a half-blood in the same way as the Dark Lord himself. Severus Snape was a talented young man who had refused to take the mark as he wouldn't kill for it.
But Moody didn't know that there was another way to gain the Dark Mark.
Alastor only knew of the ritual that required spilled innocent blood to bind the person to the monster via a horrible tattoo of ancient origin. Harry might be young, but Alastor Moody knew that the boy needed to know some things if he wanted to keep the title of Boy-Who-Lived long enough to become an adult. And Moody was prepared to give him survival skills in order to do so. And knowledge about professors that were bound to serve the so-called 'Dark Lord'.
Dumbledore was okay with allowing Snape to berate Harry, Neville, and all sorts of other children from 'Light' families. Supposedly to keep his cover. Bah!
Moody said he was looking forward to coming to the school and putting the fear of HIM into the nasty, greasy git. So nice to have an adult who saw Snape as a potential enemy.
Snape surely confused Harry with bullying him one moment then rescuing him the next.
Harry had even more reason to hold a grudge against Snape after trying to get Sirius Kissed by a Dementor, and he also made sure that Remus lost his job!
At least Remus got another job right away. Professor Lupin was hired immediately to be the House Black Steward and made arrangements for lessons – When did Sirius find time to do that? Harry was both surprised and relieved about this development. He had grown very close to this wizard over the last school year, even teasingly calling him 'Unca Moony' as he did as a baby apparently. Harry had been furious that Remus was going to be unemployed, and possibly going hungry. Harry had experienced that and didn't want it for someone that he cared about, considered family. But what could he have done about it?
Sirius solved that problem, and reading some of the books that his godfather had sent, the position was no sinecure. He'd be earning his salary, though. Harry was concerned about him doing something he loved for work, not just doing a job to survive. But, so far, the House Steward had been brilliant. And the extra lessons were appreciated.
As a result, Harry now had a potions teacher for the summer and was actually learning potions. The Knight Bus might not be the most comfortable –or safest– ride but it got him to Professor Slughorn's and Moody's houses respectively.
Moony made sure that Slughorn knew that Harry needed remedial lessons back to what he should have had at home with his mother. Like other magical children.
The thought of standing at a workbench as a redheaded woman gently guided his hands in chopping or stirring was enough to nearly have the boy break down.
The thought was especially painful compared to his actual learning at the steel spatula wielding hag who spit vitriol and abuse at a child too young to even be near knives, cutting boards or especially a stove.
Banishing the wish of a different beginning, Harry instead concentrated on the lesson; enjoying each moment of gentle instruction.
Professor Slughorn was a good teacher, and Harry's skills were growing by leaps and bounds.
If only he could get away from Durskaban… Permanently!
**00**
Two weeks before the train left Hogsmeade for London
The luxury resort of Xanadu included a casino, magical theater, and their very own small private beach with weather ward's that kept it a perfect temperature year round. That meant that June was actually it's slow month.
Much more affordable for the crime Lord that rented it all for the day.
A box of single use talismans were provided. They would allow anyone with one entrance to the private beach. Chaise lounges, a lovely cabana, access to everything.
The obsequious servant asked if the wizard was going to need more than the amount in the box. A quick look showed dozens, not that he counted.
"No, this will be just fine."
If the servant had known his plans, he would have risked his life to prevent that box from leaving the office.
**00**
Hedwig had just returned from taking another invite for the extra lessons to Ron. Slughorn was just brilliant and Moody was scary but good. He also wanted to invite the Weasleys to the World Cup as Padfoot said that there was plenty of room for his friends.
She landed on his shoulder. Harry reached up for the letter but no. Pets first, which he really had no trouble doing. The lovely daytime owl was a good friend and received her demanded cuddles first. Then she relented and released the post.
He quickly opened the letter. The Weasley family wanted to pick Harry up in a couple of weeks for the World Cup. Something about creating a floo. Here! At the Dursleys! Oh no!
Mr Weasley was hoping to get tickets and wanted to invite Harry. That made him laugh, as he had just invited the Weasleys!
Harry was glad that Hedwig had gone to take his letter to Ron directly and picked this one up. It appeared that the letter was meant to go in the regular post. Because it was covered in postage stamps. Completely. All over it! Poor Mrs Weasley!
Harry put it on his to-do list. A nice set of stationary was a perfect hostess gift, and he could show her the right amount of stamps to use.
And maybe a small bag of muggle currency?
Vernon was shouting again. Wishing HE had a house-elf instead of being one, Harry put down the letter on top of the book he had been reading. The boy obeyed the summons of the giant land whale and went downstairs.
Harry amused himself while fixing dinner by doing an essay in his mind on the strange 'Vernious Durslious' describing habitat, eating habits, and range of normal activities that included little physical effort and much shouting, sitting and swilling gin.
Ever since using this method to distract himself, Harry noticed that Vernon scowled. Hmm. His scowl seemed in proportion to Harry's amusement.
Harry immediately practiced his nascent occlumency skills and put on a mask of an unhappy servant.
Yes, that was better, Vernon brightened right up.
Adding to the essay that this creature seemed to be related to dementors, but instead of happiness, fed on others unhappiness and strove to keep their captives unfed and discontented.
He'd write to Ron right away. He wasn't asking for permission from the Dursleys to go to the World Cup. These people weren't his legal guardians. He was only here for camouflage.
Hard for pureblood idiots to find him amongst all of the muggles after all. And the Death Eater threat was real according to Moody. They might not directly attack at Hogwarts due to their fear of Dumbledore, but any of them that happened across Harry would gladly capture him for their disembodied boss. And unlike others, like Fudge, who would deny it, Harry knew that Tom Marvolo Riddle wasn't exactly alive, but he wasn't fully dead yet either.
Harry had an idea. He'd keep on his toes, continue to go to classes, but do so from the Weasley home. He'd write out a letter requesting to come there now. Before the World Cup. He had stayed the obligatory two weeks that Dumbledore demanded. He knew the Weasleys wouldn't mind hosting him.
No, Harry would be going to the World Cup on July 19th; he would just be leaving prison sooner rather than later. They could make arrangements to meet in Diagon Alley or he could just take the Knight Bus to the Weasley's home.
Potions, DADA, and now a chance to meet young people from all over the world. This was Harry's best summer yet with only two things missing to be perfect. One would be to live with family that loved him. That would be great.
But aside from living with his godfather, there was one more thing.
Something he desperately needed. And that was going to happen soon. Yes, there was something he needed even more than a new family.
What he was really looking forward to was being with Hermione. He missed her. So very much. They had grown very close this year, sharing secret classes and sneaking around.
Once she learned of his new secret-from-Dumbledore lessons, he hoped that she would join him. And Alastor wanted her there as well. Remus Lupin had given both of them some private lessons in self-defense during the previous year. Just in case Black attacked them.
Hadn't that been a surprise for them all! Black not being the threat but trying to protect Harry from one.
Remus promised that he too would be in touch to give more lessons soon, just as soon as this new home was ready. Harry knew some of the details about Professor Lupin, rather Moony moving into Blackmoor Hall in Wiltshire. Harry was extremely relieved that Moony had both a roof over his head, and decent food to eat. The home had been empty for some time, and managed by a single elderly partially-deaf elf by the name of Baxter.
Harry was told he'd have to yell loudly to summon him if ever needed. Moony would likely have to hire more elves. Lupin was incredibly gifted with magical creatures, and Harry knew that would enjoy this part of his work very much. And he was a very kind person.
Neither Gryffindor was willing to even think too loudly the 'buying elves' thought around Hermione. Nope. Besides, they both agreed with her, and wished more elves wanted to be free. Like Dobby.
Harry had been hesitant to offer to hire Dobby. Even after a year, he was still a little wary around the elf that had wanted to injure him in order to save his life. Harry pulled himself from his musings and went back to Ron's scribblings.
The letter was reread twice before Harry was ready to write his reply. He was past done with this place, and wanted a home of his own. Remus seemed to be implying that Harry would be welcome there with him once all of the doxies, ghouls, boggarts, toxic dust bunnies, and other creatures had been defeated in the place.
Harry wrote a letter to Ron, packed most of his meager belongings. He couldn't wait to be reunited with his friends.
And Hermione would be returning from France in only three more days!
**OO**
Appoline Delacour was thrilled with the thoughtful gift from her husband delivered via his secretary.
A day at Xanadu, starting with the beach for her and her girls, a time at the spa for just her and Fleur, and ending with an elegant dinner and show for her and her husband. How romantic and thoughtful.
Their anniversary was coming up, but getting reservations at the luxury wizarding resort on the Solstice would have been impossible if not done months before. Celebrating two weeks early was just fine with her.
The timing was perfect with school getting out. She couldn't wait to spend some time with just her girls. And she wouldn't be inviting any of the staff! She needed some time alone to talk.
She was looking forward to it.
**OO**
Moody had retired from the DMLE as there were rumblings from the Dark faction.
Mad-eye wanted to be free to act in a way that Crouch and others in the Ministry would disapprove of. And something was happening. So he wanted to be at Hogwarts in the coming year and only pretended to reluctantly take the DADA post. In truth, he was going to ask for it as an excuse to be there this year.
He'd be keeping an eye on Karkaroff and Snape, and any other so-called 'former' Death Eaters.
Snape had seemed sincere in his remorse after all. But until questioned under the highly illegal, enhanced truth serum that his friend made for him, he couldn't trust him. Wouldn't trust him.
Besides, Moody had curse-breaking experience. Time to remove the DADA curse from Hogwarts.
Once and for all.
**OO**
One week before the train left Hogsmeade for London
Lucius Malfoy was smirking most unpleasantly. Severus had obviously been summoned for him to gloat. Black had escaped, though Severus had done his best to see him Kissed.
Malfoy would be careful to rub a bit of salt in that wound, though he too was affected.
A box of magical talismans was on the side table, the blond man was playing with them.
"My friend, do you know that we are going to be a part of something special. Bringing the Dark Lord back to full health."
Severus hadn't broken his cover under the Dark Lord's cruciatus. He certainly wasn't going to show his utter dismay or sudden fear at this revelation.
It was why he put up with pretending to like the pampered peacock after all.
"What wonderful news. But I can't act at Hogwarts. And as you know, the wards protecting the Potter brat are just too strong. Surely you don't expect me to try and take him from the train?"
"This has nothing to do with Potter! No, a different enemy is being lured. Though it would be nice to invite him too. Hmm. You could send him an invitation, perhaps with a lock of his girlfriend's hair?
"You are targeting Miss Granger? For what?" To himself he asked, 'For being the best student for the last three years? Being the top student all while taking every class possible?' Aloud he guessed. "I know. For hitting Draco? Not the first points she lost, nor was it her first detention."
"She hit my son? Well, that is a wonderful excuse. I will tell her that is the reason for her death. No. It is simply that the child fits the parameters needed."
Severus read off the list. "She can't be royal!"
"The closest one to the throne to attend Hogwarts in many years. Forty something on the line of succession so no not that close. As a Governor, I learn these things."
"What are these fobs made of?" Severus asked. He picked two up together, and pocketed one for analysis. Lucius never noticed.
"Will you help me? Write a letter to the chit posing as Black, perhaps rewarding her for being such a good friend to his godson?" Malfoy asked. "You know her better than I. You see her."
"What? Lucius, are you saying…
"That Harry Potter is Sirius Black's godson? Yes. Silly me, I thought you knew." The man purred.
Severus wrote in an even hand a very nice letter. While he was curious about it, the talisman in his pocket had to be deactivated. He was good at wandless magic, and cast a powerful finite at it. As a portkey or magical entry, it was worthless. It was now just a decoration.
He managed to grab another from the box for his later analysis. Good. His sleight of hand skills were still competent. Severus included the talisman that now wouldn't work in the provided envelope.
Malfoy tapped it "Do you have Miss Granger's muggle address?"
"I do not, but I could send you a school owl. They'll know how to reach her."
"Severus, you are a delight."
The man's smile did nothing but add to his fear growing in stomach. As soon as he was able, Severus made his escape. He bolted to Dumbledore's side, and informed him of the plot and how he had thwarted it, for now.
"The girl's parents need to be warned! They have been seen in that area of France before. Lucius gambles there, has spies there. The muggles and the girl are in danger."
Dumbledore fingered the real talisman that he had given to the Headmaster.
"You are right Severus. You are right. Well done, my boy. I know you won't take a lemon sherbet, but did you try Pomona's special tea with lemongrass? Just magical."
Convinced that lemon caused brain rot, Severus stormed out of the office, relieved that the Granger situation was not his responsibility. He thwarted it. He reported it. It was done.
So why did it leave him on edge? Why was he feeling so afraid? For her.
She looked nothing like Lily, though at times, she did act like her.
And, like her, fell for the Potter boy. Snape had a sudden image of his own son; a lanky dark haired youth hiding in shadows, hiding his broken heart.
Grateful that HIS children, imaginary or not, weren't here to be crushed by rejection, Severus went to go brew, and try and calm his ragged nerves.
**OO**
Southern France
Hermione's family had spent the first two weeks together on holiday when Hermione first came home. They would then take another holiday to spend the last week or so together before school resumed.
The gifts of the talisman to a private beach was something that they were looking forward to! How kind of Lord Black to send it.
Emma had been keenly feeling that they were losing their little girl more and more to this strange world. Taking time to just walk on the beach in the south of France, or go shopping, or just read to each other was an attempt to renew her bond with her child.
Practicing hand to hand was another way to reconnect with her daughter. Magicals relied too much on their wands. Disarm them, get physical and they would fold. Just as long as you avoided those beams of light!
Hermione knew that from personal experience, and related some of her past adventures to her mother. It made Emma happy to know that her daughter trusted Emma enough to share.
A daughter that was clearly needing to talk about boys. Well. A boy. In fact, her letters home made it seem like there was only a small group being educated there, and mostly boys. Draco Malfoy getting punched in the nose was particularly satisfying after the unpleasant interactions with that family in the bookstore two years ago. The man had oozed disdain for their family. Hermione had mentioned the Malfoy boy and his goons, Harry and Ron, but what about her other friends?
"Hermione, can I ask a question? Other than your dormmates, does this school teach any other witches?"
Hermione looked around sharply, but other than a beautiful blonde woman with her teenage daughter, and a girl that appeared to be about eight or so, they were alone. That family was on the beach, in the sun, closer to the sparkling water. The private beach was otherwise unoccupied at the moment.
"Of course! But Mum! You can't talk about that here!" Hermione whispered urgently.
Emma made a motion of zipping her lips. Then unzipped them.
"It's a magical resort Hermione!" Emma reminded her.
Hermione nodded, blushing at her fear of being overhead.
Emma continued, "So. Harry. His letter said that he's looking forward to sharing something with you this summer. You seemed excited."
"I am, as he really changed this last year. The Headmaster wouldn't allow him to take extra classes. So Harry just went. The Runes and Arithmancy instructor accepted his homework and allowed him to take the tests on Saturdays when they took turns being in charge of Professor Snape's detentions."
"Snape doesn't watch over his own detentions? Never mind. Don't defend him, Hermione! He tried to get Harry's godfather killed. A man sent to prison without a trial!"
"I know. So unfair." Hermione brushed away a tear. "Harry deserves someone, an adult someone, who loves and cares for him."
Hermione and Emma were on towels on the beach in the shade of some trees and bushes. They had overdone the sun the previous day, but still wanted to be near the water. But this was the day for the talisman, so come now and do this, or miss out on the opportunity.
Movement attracted Emma's attention.
While the mother escorted her younger daughter to the nearby cabana, the blonde teen continued to lounge on the beach. That girl was exceptionally beautiful. The mother too, and the cute little girl looked likely to join them as she grew.
Suddenly, there was the sound of spell-fire, and the woman dropped onto the sand, struck by a red beam. Two men suddenly appeared from the other side of the cabana. They wore all black and had strange masks.
"Nu! Nu o ucide!" One of the henchmen shouted. (No! Don't kill her.)
The small blonde girl shouted. "Fleur! Aidez moi!"(Fleur! Help me!) before she too was stunned.
Dan and Emma had no hand weapons with them on holiday. Emma had nothing with her that could help. Not even her sturdy boots. If these monsters noticed them, she and Hermione would also be in danger.
Hermione had her wand and a good line of sight. There were only two men visible, one of the men picked up the child while the other went to secure the mother.
Hermione quickly cast the spell chain that she and Harry had practiced with Professor Lupin.
The two men were down; stunned and tied up with ropes in an instant.
The blonde close to the water was running to aid her family.
Hermione ran there too, taking the wands from the bound men, and stunned them again just in case. Emma looked around for a rock to ensure they didn't wake up.
The teen, presumably Fleur, joined them and cast a patronus while Hermione enerverated both witches.
"Help will be here soon. Thank you, my friend, for rescuing my sister!" Fleur shared in her native tongue.
"My mother and I were reclining in the shade, just over there. It's just too beautiful to not want to come." Hermione shared in French, her sunburn quite apparent. "Are you okay, petite?"
The girl was holding onto her sister. Her mother, shaking, was incensed at both herself and the people who had gotten the drop on her. She now had a wand in hand, ready to cast if any other enemies appeared.
Introductions were made all around. "Appoline Delacour, my daughters Fleur and Gabrielle."
Appoline hugged Hermione longer than was socially acceptable or comfortable pain-wise perhaps for the sunburnt girl, but the kisses on her cheeks were accompanied by the mother's tears.
Emma was both furious at the situation and most impressed with her daughter. And so very, very proud. She should have let the adults handle it, but if she had, the girl would have been gone!
Hermione thought that Delacour was a name she had read about but couldn't place it just then.
Madame Delacour was most distraught. "My husband is not going to be happy with me. We left without our security detail. Fleur is just home from school. Gabrielle and I have missed her so much. I just wanted some time alone with my girls!"
Emma worried her hands, "Oh dear! Are kidnappings common here then? Maybe we should…"
"No, this beach is private, so I didn't think anyone would be here… My husband... He works in the Ministry of Magic… this attack was likely people trying to get ransom… Probably." Madame Delacour shared as she grabbed her locket around her neck in a deathgrip.
Before Hermione knew it, uniformed wizards bearing the Delacour livery showed up. She had finally placed the ladies' last name as aurors also showed up.
She took Fleur aside, switching to English in her surprise. "The Minister of Magic for France!" She blurted, in sudden recognition. "You and your sister are Veela?"
Fleur brushed aside perfect hair. "Mais oui. Mamma aussi." (But of course. My mother as well.)
Hermione nodded, as questions started. Hermione's wand was tested by the aurors, and she thought she was in trouble. However, the auror returned her wand and gave her a little card.
"Even if there had been muggles here, it was exigent circumstances. You saw what was going on and acted. Well done. Well done!"
Hermione blushed and smiled, and nodded. The little girl finally overcame her initial shyness, but spoke far too rapidly for even the fluent Hermione to follow. Fleur translated.
"My sister thinks that you are so brave because you are 'arry Potter's girlfriend. Silly, I know."
Hermione blushed again. "Well, we're not exactly boyfriend and girlfriend… yet. Not that I would say no...I mean. Oh, I just. Harry's…" If she hadn't been so sunburned, her blush would have made her appear so.
Fleur goggled then giggled at what this girl was saying, but Hermione had more questions to answer for the authorities. She had to be questioned to make sure that she was not a part of the 'conspiracy to kidnap' anyone.
Emma grabbed up their bags quickly as they were taken to a nearby auror outpost, the liveried wizards were listening with one taking notes, but they had spent time while the aurors were busy in scanning the area. One sliced off a bit of board from the cabana and shared the results with the auror in charge before they got into an argument that Hermione couldn't follow about who got to track down whoever had put the proximity alarm runes on that building.
Fleur was still focused on Hermione. This girl trained with Harry Potter! Not just went to school with him, but was really friends with him! She had pictures she shared with Gabrielle!
"You love him, my friend? Why don't you tell him?" Fleur asked, using quiet English to avoid more of her sister's fangirl squeals.
The potion that her mother requested appeared to be working rapidly for the young witch, healing her sunburn. Madame Granger, having far less magic, was also improving but more slowly.
"Because every girl in Britain is 'in love' with him, and apparently girls here too. I'm just a friend… I think. For now." Heremione answered diffidently.
Hermione's heart hurt at the thought of not being with Harry as they grew older. But wasn't that the way of friendships? Growing closer then apart?
Did they have to?
Hermione hoped not.
**OO**
As for the men captured, they were Romanian Death Eaters. Their marks appeared to be the same as the British ones.
After a fair trial, they were questioned extensively before being put to death.
The Minister of Magic for France didn't have to pull strings to see justice done, nor did he allow anyone to intervene on the behalf of criminals that tried to use his daughter for some dark ritual to restore the Dark Lord.
Copies of the relevant information were forwarded to the ICW, Romanian Ministry of Magic, and one other. Just not to the DMLE in London.
Data sent there would be binned before being evaluated just for being 'foreign'. No, the clever people sent it to a man that had just retired. And who happily added the information to his growing stacks.
**OO**
Finding out that reservations for the dinner and show were never a part of the talisman as had been promised had Appoline very upset. Not with herself, but with her husband's secretary. The letter was already in auror hands, while Jean-Claude's fervent kisses reassured himself that his wife was here and safe.
**OO**
The Granger family was invited to dinner with the Delacours. Dan was both appalled and pleased with his daughter's actions.
Seeing the way that this family thanked Hermione was wonderful. Not gold or medals on offer - but true friendship.
Hermione learned how the young witches had even heard of her. Apparently the French version of Teen Witch Weekly had an article about Harry Potter, and the girls his age at Hogwarts. And who he was likely to start dating. Her picture was in it!
Of course, the magazine had chosen Susan Bones or Daphne Greengrass as favorites for their beauty, poise, and family position in Britain. Nothing of which really mattered to Harry.
Jean-Claude took Dan aside. "I have to admit that after what nearly happened to my family, I had your family looked into a bit."
Dan nodded. He completely understood that.
"Your younger brother has the title. Not you. But I can't find out why."
Dan pulled his hand through his hair. "My wife is my life. I see the way you look at your family. You understand. Hermione's was a difficult birth, and she is all we are going to have. Richard has two boys. It's a patrilineal title. Hermione couldn't be the Duke, though honestly, she'd make a better one than either of my nephews.
"When Hermione was born, my father, who was still alive at that time, came to me while we were still at the hospital. Emma was recovering from surgery. He offered me an obscene amount of money and attempted to appeal to my 'sense of duty' and honor, for me to 'set aside' Emma and marry another who could provide me with at least one son. While my wife was still recovering!"
Calming himself, Dan continued in a more subdued manner, "My younger brother married earlier than I did and already had sons. He and my father were of like minds in their 'keenness' to keep the eligibility for the throne as unlikely as that would be."
"So you are related to the queen?"
"We're actually more closely related to Princess Diana, but yes. Distantly. It hardly matters in Britain. I'm a simple dentist who is blessed with a loving family. I served Queen and Country for a time in the SAS. I met and married a younger girl in college. That's my life story in a nutshell."
Jean-Claude saw that the tall man was still very muscular, still carried himself as a warrior. Jean-Claude had served in the aurors in his younger days. That wariness had been inherited by Dan's daughter, and proved to be a key factor in saving Jean-Claude's own little girl.
"Thank you for sharing that with me. I do hope that our girls can become friends. And us as well."
The men shook hands and returned to the table. Jean-Claude would not spoil the meal by revealing to Dan what he now knew. Not now.
Gabrielle left the dinner with pictures of her new friend Hermione Granger and herself, which made the young witch's day. Hermione did promise that Harry Potter would likely write to the young veela to check on her and possibly send her a signed picture. She wasn't wrong.
Appoline Delacour promised herself to find an appropriate gift for the teenager who risked her life to save her daughter.
And was happy that if picked for the delegation, Fleur would know at least one person at Hogwarts in the coming year.
Her daughter had a difficult time making friends, and this witch seemed to suffer from the same problem. As Emma had shared with the veela mother, quietly.
She hoped that they could have a good relationship. They were planning on exchanging letters for now.
Learning that this girl had no owl of her own, Appoline arranged for both an owl and a local Gringotts parcel exchange box.
A lovely white barn owl joined their family. Due to his look, Hermione named him Jareth from the Labyrinth movie.
A nice start on the presents. Certainly more were due. How did one put a value on the life of her little girl? She understood that seconds were involved rather than minutes in the prevention of a tragedy and she vowed to never again venture out without her security detail!
Unbeknownst to them, the Granger family had a Delacour bodyguard all the rest of their stay. Though the danger seemed at bay. For now.
**OO**
When Severus heard of the thwarted attack, he kicked himself. She had been there! Pictures were in the French newspaper. He should have made sure that talisman was deactivated! The girl getting killed - it would be someone like Lily all over again.
He had to be more careful!
**OO**
Diagon Alley
Molly was thrilled to offer Harry Potter a place in her household for the summer. How nice for Ron and Ginny to have their friend here!
Ron ignored that comment as Harry was closer to the twins than his sister. All she did was eep at him.
Harry had no idea why the Durselys were acting so strange. They had been less unpleasant to him during the final few days of his stay, but he could tell they were on edge about it.
Apparently, the new neighbor was a copper, and had scoffed in Petunia's face when mention of a certain Saint Brutus school was mentioned.
"There's no such juvenile facility. And the ones that do exist don't send offenders home for the summer. What are you playing at?"
Awkward questions from the detective sergeant started, and mention of a search warrant being obtained was threatened. Not that she had relayed any of that to Harry.
Since Harry needed to go to Gringotts, his own escape from prison had him meeting Mr Weasley after work in Diagon. Harry made his farewells to the greater and lesser land whales (Vernon and Dudley) and whatever horrible creature his aunt was.
"Good riddance. And try to have another place to go to next year!" the shrill woman demanded.
"Yes, Aunt Petunia." Harry sadly reassured her. Why was she so mean to him? He did try to please her.
At least none of the Dursleys had gotten physical with him during this visit. Color Harry impressed. But he wanted out of there before that changed back to normal!
Harry summoned the Knight Bus, happy for the chaotic ride to Diagon. It was a common stop, and so it was a pleasantly short trip.
There, he and Mr Weasley planned to do a bit of shopping. Including looking for a specialty item.
One that would be useful when Dumbledore sent him back to Durskaban next year regardless of his, Lord Black's, or the Dursleys' objections.
**OO**
A/N: Long authors notes and warnings about the story; and a cast of O/C's to try and help keep track of people.
O/C alert - sorry, not enough witches in canon for the other main characters that were not Harry.
One horcrux created, no guesses for what it was, but it's gone. No Hallows, no horcrux hunt, no Voldemort war dragging on forever with lots of death and destruction. If that's what you are searching for, so sorry. Not here. A bit of gruesome, a bit of horror, a bit of war. Trying to keep it safe for teens here.
Unapologetically Harmony. Age appropriate relationship, so expect some hand-holding and maybe a few kisses.
AU - different timing of events. World Cup on July 19th and such. If I wrote canon I would be more Scottish than I am (which would be cool) and I would live in Scotland (which would be cool). And I would be paid for my work. Sigh. Nope, that isn't happening, so not JK, and this is AU.
Friendly Weasleys (for the most part) more than a bit of Dumbledore bashing. I really tried. I tried so hard for the first sixty seven pages. Then we got to something, and the true canon Dumbledore who thought child abuse was acceptable both at home and at school came out.
The Dumbledore who thought nothing of sacrificing children for the good of all.
If you are looking for Harry slash, sorry, never going to happen here. Nope.
Harry/Ginny? Nope. Sorry. Though I am going to try and pull my claws. I don't know why I love to hate Ginny. I think that if she had more character development in the stories it would have been better for me. But I still wouldn't ship her and Harry. Hermione was there! She supported Harry all of the way. Did they fight? Oh yes, but they made up and didn't hold grudges. True love. So I will try and be kinder to Ginny here. She did stand up and fight with Harry.
Dramamine? No so sorry, that is a pill for seasickness, not a cause of vomiting. Nope, not dispensing that either.
Sirius will have a girlfriend, O/C. Adult. Not one of Harry's friends. Remus will have a female mate. O/C. Adult. Not one of Harry's school friends either. And not be paired with Tonks, as much as I do personally love that pairing. They will be good friends.
Marius Greengrass, an O/C from a previous story will be showing up, as well as a whole horde of goblins that I have previously introduced. He will have a slash pairing but nothing will be mentioned in terms of details.
Byron Ambrose will also be here. He loves both men and women but all relationships will have mention with no details of anything 'extracurricular'. Nope, not my deal
Cast of O/C Characters:
Goldrub - Black Account Manager
Spurnik - Potter Account Manager
BloodRage - goblin guard whose armor displays the blood of his enemies slain in honorable combat. Or injured in duels. He loves to play 'scare the hu-mon' as long as they are of age.
Sage - goblin guard, mate of BloodRage, Spurnik's daughter. Did you just ask for her real name? It's feeding time for the dragons, and the door is on the left if you want to help.
Dharma Briokz - solicitor in this story, meaning he deals with contracts, real estate law, estate law, and such. Not going to be Sirius' barrister in court but is heavily involved even if not so named. He loves 'sticking it to the purebloods' as much as BloodRage loves scaring them.
We're not listing the dead goblins killed for betrayal. Nope. They deserved it, though.
Potter House Elves - Jam is here, and Juniper is pranking the headmaster in the background but hasn't been named yet. Baxter is an old Black elf serving Aunt Calladora, but also checks in on Blackmoor Hall.
Werewolf Clarice MacMillan, older sister of Ernie. Ravenclaw class of 1985. Clarice graduated Hogwarts in the top five students.
The young woman was bitten on the way home from work in the winter of 1988. The vicious attacking werewolf was quickly put down by the Hogsmeade Black Watch. Responding villagers, who came to help at her cries, had kept it at bay until the professionals arrived. They had no idea that it was Fenrir Greyback they'd put down. It was a werewolf who was attacking people. But it was too late for Clarice, and there is yet no cure.
Due to this calamity, Ernie's grandmother, who loves her family, no longer has a granddaughter helping in the kitchen with the shortbread. She refused to allow her to work with her after being bitten. To make ends meet, Clarice set up a little stand of her own, but it 'mysteriously' burned to the ground after Ernie's first year. She then took a job at a library, and works in the muggle world.
Healer Darlene Fenwich - half-blood witch of a muggle-born father and pureblood French witch. Private healer - bounces back and forth between France and Britain.
Healer Marius Greengrass, former Death Eater who broke away from the Dark Lord before the Potters' deaths in his heart, but continued to serve as as Death Eater healer for the safety of his family.
Lord Byron Ambrose, vampire, broke away from his clan that was serving the Dark Lord, and has tried to offer help to Harry Potter, but no letters have gotten through. Yet.
Lady Cordelia Greengrass - Daphne and Astoria's mother. Lord Cygnus, their father, also might step in for a bit.
This tale has been written by two friends with a love of fanfic, and a definite love of the world of Harry Potter. If you aren't enjoying the story, please hit the X and go on with your life. But if you do have fun, please stay.
**OO**
A/N: Recommended Story: Put a Taboo to Use by BeepKeeper.
If you have a story to share, drop us a p/m.
**OO**
ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Edited October 4th, 2022 to reposition the long disclaimer.