Won the Battle, Lost the War?

The trio of friends played their part in defeating the Dark Lord, only to discover that nothing had changed and they'd actually lost the war. What if the victors only thought they'd won?

-oOoOo-

The beautiful sunny morning seemed to be mocking just how unbelievably dark and deadly the previous evening had been. The beleaguered trio of friends were walking outside a badly damaged Hogwarts castle. All three were desperately seeking a moment of solace from all the death and destruction they'd not only witnessed last evening - but played pivotal roles in.

They were searching for some speck of normalcy that could be grasped onto, but finding it extremely difficult to discover anything that could pass for normal at Hogwarts this morning. In every direction they looked, the trio found themselves surrounded by wreckage and reminders of where friends and foes had fallen in the ferocious attack Tom Riddle's forces had unleashed - in what was sure to be remembered as the Battle for Hogwarts.

Very little was said between the three of them. There was really no need for words as they all struggled with the exact same problem. Privately, each would admit they didn't expect to survive the war. Looking back through the multitude of deadly events in their young lives, it was nothing short of a miracle that all three of them were standing here alive today. The new problem facing them, while not as deadly as some others they had recently faced, was no less important to the three friends - where do they go from here?

Noticing an odd but instantly recognisable couple purposely making their way toward the trio, none of them could have guessed some of those questions were about to be answered.

After greeting the new Minister of Magic and Hogwarts Headmistress, Minerva's wand soon had some rubble transfigured into seats for the five of them. Kingsley proved he was taking to his new job like a duck to water by diving right in.

"The country owes the three of you a debt that can never be repaid, though I'm going to attempt to show our appreciation and gratitude by awarding each of you 'Orders of Merlin - First Class'. I honestly can't think of anyone who deserves these awards more."

While Ron and Hermione hugged each other in congratulations, and Minerva's smile was as bright as the sunny morning, previous experience of dealing with Ministers of Magic - and the Ministry in general - left Harry waiting on the other shoe to drop. This was immediately picked up on by Hermione, sitting between 'her wizards', as she turned to congratulate her best friend too.

A raised questioning eyebrow by Hermione, was greeted by a tiny shake of Harry's head. These two could communicate sentences to each other with the smallest gesture. Harry signalling to Hermione that it wasn't quite time to celebrate yet immediately kicked her mind into high gear. It only took a moment for Harry to be proven horribly right.

"Now, there was one event last evening that changed everything…"

Ron reached around Hermione to slap his best friend on the back in congratulation. "We know, Shack, we were there. Harry ended Voldemort!"

"No, Ron, this event happened before that. Last night, Harry James Potter died."

As buzz killers go, that statement was right up there with the best.

Hermione though was reading from Harry's body language that he was expecting the Minister - even with that position now filled by an Order of the Phoenix member - to pull something untoward here. She left no one in any doubt where her position in any ministry shenanigans would be - backing Harry all the way.

"Kingsley, we don't need reminding of Hagrid carrying Harry's body back to Hogwarts - that memory will haunt me for years. Harry's here, clearly alive, and just won the war for you by killing the most powerful Dark Lord this country has seen in millennia."

The Minister shook his bald head. "Yes, Hermione, I was there too. It doesn't change the fact that Harry was LEGALLY dead, and that has consequences. As the last of his line, and having legally died, all the Potter vaults will now be claimed by the Ministry…"

Harry appeared overly calm for someone being robbed blind, as he interrupted the newly minted Minister of Magic. "I left a registered Last Will and Testament with my account manager at Gringotts…"

It was the Minister's turn to interrupt. "Doesn't matter, Harry. It should have been registered with the Ministry."

"My parents registered their wills with the Ministry, those wills were locked down and ignored by the Chief Warlock - sentencing my innocent godfather to over a decade in Azkaban and me to the Dursleys."

"That was before my time as Minister…"

Harry finally let some of his emotions show. "Fuck sake Kingsley, since you've just been appointed today - that means everything was before your time. I 'died' before you were made Minister of Magic, so are you at least gonna have the stones to take responsibility for ending the Potter and Black lines?"

It was a rather sheepish Minister who replied. "Draco Malfoy will be the new Lord Black, with the Black vaults being heavily fined…"

That hated name drew a predictable response from Ron. "That blond bastard was still trying to kill us last night! What kind of justice is that?"

The Minister shook his head, as if trying to explain how the real world worked to little children. "This has nothing to do with justice, this is about what's best for our world. Look around you, it's going to take a vast amount of gold just to get Hogwarts back up and running - never mind the rest of the country."

There was no holding back from Hermione now. "And your answer to that problem is to steal everything - including his family name - from the person who just won the war for you. I also noticed you didn't answer Harry if you were responsible for this decision, just tried to distract us by throwing Draco Malfoy's name into the mix. I've spent the last few years fighting against the darkness but this despicable act is right up there with anything I've even heard about coming from the other side."

A hand gently placed on Hermione's shoulder halted her rant, seeing Minerva's wand casually covering the Minister helped the witch too.

"Hermione, Shack was here last night - fighting alongside us - he hasn't had time to come up with something as complex as this. Someone made him a tempting offer, and he sold his soul to become Minister of Magic. We all know that means losing your honour, burying any integrity you possess and doing what the people who gave you the job order to be done too."

"Harry, I pushed hard for you. That's why you're being awarded an Order of Merlin - and ten thousand galleons…"

It was a raging Minerva who interrupted the new Minister. "An Order of Merlin, First Class comes with a gratuity of twenty five thousand galleons."

"It was all I could get, Minerva, and I had to fight hard for that. Harry, this is nothing personal - I actually admire you so much for all you've achieved - but this can't be avoided. Behind every government in every country, there are the powerful people who run everything. We're all just cogs in the great machine."

Harry stood his ground - battered, bruised and half starved - yet still managing to project the image of an incredibly powerful wizard who had so recently ended the horrific reign of a Dark Lord.

"Where were these incredibly powerful people last night, when we were all fighting for our lives? I certainly saw a lot of people slinking away, after I defeated Voldemort - and noticed nobody did anything to try and stop them either. Your world called me 'the-boy-who-lived' a reminder every time it was uttered that my parents were murdered that night. Now you want me to accept an award, an award to tell the entire world how the British Ministry of Magic robbed me of my family name, heritage and money - and I'm supposed to accept that?"

Taking a deep breath, Harry then gave his decision. "Since you can't stick an award up an institution's arse - not that they have any shortage of arseholes working at the Ministry of Magic - I have no choice but to make this personal. Minister Shacklebolt, take your proposed award, and whatever number of galleons you like, and stick them right up your traitorous arse."

Harry was getting really angry now. "I'm willing to bet this is the first time a dead man has refused an Order of Merlin - did whoever came up with this shitty idea even think about that - or was it just a last minute very cheap and crass attempt to buy me off? If this Award is given Posthumously, the Ministry would get to keep any galleons awarded - since they just stole all my vaults and you can't give money to a dead man. This will be the last time we speak as I'm so finished with the cesspit that is magical Britain. My parents laid down their lives, I gave my life, and yet fuck all has changed - the same shit floats to the top and everyone is told it doesn't stink. Hermione, Ron, Professor - goodbye."

At that, Harry disappeared away from the currently wardless Scottish castle.

A heartbroken Hermione fell into Ron's arms, sobbing and clinging on while hoping this was some sort of nightmare. After everything they'd come through, surely it couldn't end like this. She thought they'd won, yet this certainly felt like a loss - an immeasurable and irreplaceable loss.

Shack had always known that the odds of Harry Potter accepting this were slim to none, he'd forcibly relayed that opinion to his backers - which is why they'd formulated a plan B for him. Since Harry was indeed right, no one had considered the absurdity of pining an Order of Merlin onto someone the Ministry had declared was dead, he could only hope that their next plan worked slightly better. Looking at the young couple in front of him, the Minister made his latest pitch.

"The witches and wizards of Britain still need heroes to emerge from this monstrous war. If Harry Potter chooses to forgo that role, that leaves the two people who were every bit as involved in bringing down the Dark Lord. Since Potter also chose to forgo any monetary reward, that can be added to the pot available for you two."

Hermione was getting ready to rip Shacklebolt a new arsehole when she realised something, Ron hadn't moved a muscle. She lifted her head from his chest, seeing his face full of concentration. Instead of a yell, it was barely above a whisper that escaped her lips.

"Ron, you can't be considering this? Please Ron."

He took a moment before answering. "Why not? Harry's gone, and we both know he'll never return. Seven years of friendship, and we're just discarded like last week's rubbish. This could be our start in life, Hermione. Orders of Merlin, galleons in the bank - we could be Headboy/girl next year, with Quidditch Captain thrown in for me too. After NEWT's, any job in the Ministry would be open for us. We would be the most famous couple in the country. That's the life we fought for, the life we deserve - together."

Ron was trying to physically cling onto Hermione, but both her hands on his chest were pushing him away, the horror at what she was hearing clearly etched on her face.

"That's not what I fought the war for. After what they've just done to Harry, I could never work for the Ministry. That Lestrange bitch carved the word 'MUDBLOOD' into my arm while torturing me, yet wearing that medal would feel worse - because I would need to chose to wear the token of my betrayal and shame. That's not something I could ever do, not a life I could ever accept."

"Hermione, my family's hurting back there. I've a brother lying dead in the great hall. This award would help my whole family, help with the grieving and loss. Your family is in Australia, they don't even know they have a daughter - far less you fought in a war. My family fought, bled and died to help win this war - we deserve to share some of the spoils."

"Even if those spoils were stolen from Harry?"

"Hey, don't put this on me - I'm still here…"

"This time! What happens when the Ministry decide to come and take away your muggleborn girlfriend, and put her in a camp?"

"That won't happen, you'll be with a pureblood."

"It was still happening yesterday, Ron. And from where I'm standing, nothing has changed today."

Ron's head dropped at that, throughout their argument though, neither had raised their voices. His voice was low as he answered Hermione. "I suppose I should have known this was inevitable when you volunteered to follow Harry to his death. How is Ron Weasley meant to compete with that?"

"Ron, it was never a competition. If it wasn't for this shit the Ministry are pulling here, Harry could have been best man at our wedding one day. Harry and me fought the war hoping to change magical Britain, change it into a country where we weren't second class citizens due to stupid blood issues. We won the battles Ron, but have just lost the war - because nothing has changed. I can't live in this world any longer - refuse point blank to bring children into it, children who would always be classed as sons or daughters of a mudblood mother - and you clearly have no interest in living in mine."

"Hermione, I have a home and family here - that's a lot to give up."

"So is freedom, honour and integrity - but that's what it would cost me to stay. Goodbye Minerva, and I'm so sorry Ron. Minister Shacklebolt, you can go fuck yourself!"

Hermione might have tears rolling down her cheeks but the determination in her face meant there was never any danger of her splicing herself as she disapparated away.

Minerva's wand was now clearly pointed at Shacklebolt, as was her anger. "I can't believe I used to call you a friend, you callous bastard. This betrayal, and that's exactly what it is - despite what fancy language you dress it up in - is the most disgusting act I've ever seen a Minister of Magic pull. Now that's some achievement, and quite a first day in your new job to be remembered for."

"Minerva, you know it will take many tens of thousands of galleons just to fix Hogwarts…"

"I could never be part of a school rebuilt by robbing Harry Potter to pay for it, you might find the castle fighting you too. The Hogwarts founders will be turning in their graves - seeing the institution they lovingly built to teach magical children being so defiled…"

"Minerva, Potter wasn't supposed to live. The fact that he did, and had all those resources, made him far too powerful…"

It was like a light coming on for the Transfiguration Professor. "It made him another Dumbledore, and there can be only one of those. Tell me, was Albus involved in these plans?"

"Albus was always clear with what needed to be done, and not afraid to find people willing to carry those plans out. I'll be sorry to see you leave Hogwarts, Minerva, but no one is irreplaceable." Ignoring Minerva, the Minister turned to Ron again.

"That leaves you as our only hero, Mr Weasley, and collecting all the gold for yourself too. The papers will print whatever we tell them to and, by this time next week, what we tell them will become the version everyone remembers. Think you can handle that?" Ron's broad smile of acceptance was the only answer the Minister got, before Minerva stunned her former friend. Her wand swiftly moved to target Ron.

"You had two unbelievable friends - and pissed it all away for a moment of fame, a bit of metal and some galleons. Fame doesn't last, neither does galleons yet you threw something far more valuable away…"

"They left…"

"They left because you clearly didn't support them. Your friends have just been right royally shafted by the Minister of Magic - probably forced to leave Britain too - but instead of supporting them, you're looking to pick up the spoils you think you deserve. Who saved you from being poisoned, your sister from a basilisk and your father from Nagini - the friend you just let walk away. You're literally going to have some of Harry Potter's fame and gold, I hope it makes you happy Ronald. Now, I have a resignation letter to write, and a portrait to turn into ash. Goodbye Ronald Weasley, you'll never see me again either." With that Minerva stunned Ron and hurried back to the castle. She needed to have all her business done and get away from Hogwarts before either of these two recovered from her spells.

-oOoOo-

Kingsley awoke to find himself lying on the Hogwarts battlefield, it took him a few moments to remember how he ended up there. He groaned as an image of Minerva McGonagall stunning him came to mind. So much for Albus's 'Minerva will fall in line with whatever you say' opinion. He revived Ron and both headed back to the castle, only to find Hagrid waiting to greet them in the entrance hall. This was no gentle half-giant though, Hagrid was angrier than anyone had ever seen him.

Kingsley was no coward, yet having a raging half-giant confront you was like nothing he'd ever experienced before. "Yeh disgustin' excuse o' a Minister - a wizard even. How could yeh steal everythin' his parents an' godfather left Harry? I was there, I watched tha' curse hit Harry - it broke me heart."

Hagrid slammed a piece of parchment into Shacklebolt's chest, throwing him halfway across the entrance hall.

"Tha's me quittin' letter, Min said it needed to be official. Tha' curse also put the dark bastard down too - I didn't see the ministry rush to declare him dead - probably 'cause he would've murdered the lot o' yeh useless bastards. Tha's what Harry saved us from, and you treat him like shit! Albus Dumbledore will be turnin' in his grave at the very thought o' this…"

Looking up at an angry Hagrid from lying on the floor, Kingsley's nerve didn't just break - it fucked off at a Firebolt's top speed. He may have been struggling for breath from his landing but still managed to get the words out. "This was Albus's idea…"

It was obviously loud enough for Hagrid to hear, and unfortunately garnered exactly the opposite effect from what Kingsley was hoping for. The new Minister didn't think Hagrid could get any angrier, that was until he was grabbed off the floor and hoisted until looking directly into those raging black eyes.

"Never talk badly about Albus Dumbledore in my presence again. Tryin' to blame tha' great man fer yer disgustin' crimes - tha''s jus' sick! Who elected yeh Minister anyway - I certainly never voted fer yeh…"

The Minister was tossed the rest of the way across the great hall, hitting the wall on the other side, before Hagrid turned his attention to Ron.

"Yeh stood there an' let 'em treat yer friends like shit - an' did nothin', Ask yerself this Ron, if it was yeh the Minister was comin' after - what would they have done? I thought yeh loved tha' girl but yeh're a fool - 'cause yeh'll never find a better witch than our Hermione. I'm so disappointed in yeh too."

Hagrid wasn't quiet at the best of times. Since this certainly wasn't the best of times, the entire castle had heard him. Ron found himself surrounded by his family, and being ushered into the great hall where questions were soon to follow. Predictably Ginny got in first, her question was entirely predictable too.

"Where's Harry? You three were up and out early this morning."

"Harry's gone, Ginny. He said he's not coming back, and I believe him."

Every person in the great hall was listening, but wanted to hear more. Arthur wanted to know exactly what happened this morning, and practically commanded his youngest son to tell them.

Ron really didn't think he'd done anything wrong so told them what had happened. "Kingsley is the new Minister. The Ministry are saying Harry died last night, so they are claiming his vaults. Harry was offered an Order of Merlin, First Class, and ten thousand galleons. He told Kingsley to stick it up his arse and disapparated away."

Ginny was the first one to speak after that shocking revelation. "Did Hermione leave with Harry?"

"No, it was when Kingsley offered to split Harry's ten thousand between us that she lost it. Hermione said we won the war but nothing had changed so she couldn't stay here. She's probably heading to Australia after her parents. Hermione can't really come back here anyway, a muggleborn telling the Minister of Magic to go fuck himself will never be forgotten about."

The total silence that quip generated led Ron to seize his moment. "I've been awarded an Order of Merlin, First Class, and thirty thousand galleons…"

Ron was awaiting the congratulations from his family, and still waiting…

It was actually George that broke the silence. As these were his first words since Fred had died, all the Weasleys - and a number of listening others - had tears in their eyes. "Harry gave us his Tri-Wizard winnings on the express home that summer. His thousand galleons is the reason we had a shop - and a home above it. Harry didn't want it, said people would need laughs with what was coming. We both knew Harry considered that gold tainted, because of what happened to Cedric, and he wanted nothing to do with it. We worked so hard, trying to make our shop something Harry, and Cedric, could be proud of."

For some reason, this saw his entire family glaring at Ron. Except his dad, he'd gone chalk white. "Just after Ginny was born, I approached James Potter about the loan we had with his family. Things were really tough then but James smiled, shook my hand in congratulation on the birth of our daughter and told me to forget about the loan. 'In times of trouble, friends should always look out for each other' - I've never forgotten those words. The problem might be, he had to take his own family into hiding just a few days later."

Seeing her husband so worried, Molly had to ask Arthur to explain what the problem was. "If James didn't make it into Gringotts before that, our debt will still be on the books."

"How bad would that be, dad?" Bill practically whispered his question, having some idea how much trouble they could be in. The original debt, sixteen years worth of interest plus any penalties accrued for nonpayment could see the original amount multiplied many times over.

His father's answer was practically whispered too, but was no less powerful for that. "We could sell the house, land and everything we own - yet still be in debt."

With supreme confidence, Ron chucked his two knuts worth into the conversation. "There's nothing to worry about. Harry would never let them do that - not to us."

Ginny was sitting there with her young heart breaking, though could clearly see Harry bore no blame in any of this. Her brother though had just set himself up as a target for her pent up anger and angst. If things went the way Ginny was thinking, hers would just be the first salvo in barrage after barrage of abuse heading in her brother's direction.

"Harry won't be able say a thing, because the Ministry declared him DEAD - he doesn't have an option anymore. Everyone sitting here knew what Harry would do, but you - his best mate - stood there like a moron. And then let the Minister manipulate Harry into leaving. Are you going to be the Ministry's new poster boy, declared the hero of Hogwarts? You're worse than a moron, Ron, you can't even see you'll be the scapegoat when everyone who was actually at the battle calls you a glory-seeking liar."

Watching as his sister sobbed, Ron was still struggling to see what he'd done wrong. It took Percy to explain that they'd been played.

"If the three of you had stood your ground then the Ministry in all probability would have had to back down. The three of you could have picked the next Minister of Magic, just by saying you trusted them to lead the country. Instead they used the oldest trick in the book - divide and conquer. It's no coincidence you were approached first thing in the morning, after battling for your lives last night. None of you would be thinking straight. That you have been fighting for your lives in secret for a year now was known by Shacklebolt too, and he exploited that knowledge."

Hearing that, Molly stood and drew her wand. "I lost both my twin brothers in the last war - and nothing changed. I lost one of my twin sons last night, and things will change - or this war isn't over. Where did Shacklebolt go, I want a few words with this new Minister…"

As Molly headed out to find the Minister, almost everyone in the great hall rose to follow. If the war wasn't over, Molly had her army - and they were ready to continue the fight.

Kingsley eventually made it into the Headmaster's office, wondering if there was any part of his body that didn't hurt. Sitting squarely in the centre of the Headmaster's desk was Minerva McGonagall's letter of resignation from Hogwarts he'd been expecting. What Kingsley hadn't been expecting were the letters from Flitwick, Sprout, Slughorn and even Poppy Pomfrey.

His main attention though was fixed on the charred remains of a headmaster's portrait on the wall behind the desk. As acting Headmistress, Minerva could order the portraits to sleep, trapping Albus in his frame. She could also order a former Headmaster to answer her questions - something Albus was terrified of since Severus wasn't there as a buffer anymore. That's the main reason today had been rushed, Albus didn't want people to have time to ask questions he didn't want to answer - why couldn't Potter just die like a proper wizard.

Hearing what sounded like an angry mob heading in his direction, Kingsley needed to get out of here. They couldn't go to Gringotts before tomorrow, as Harry needed to be declared dead for twenty four hours before the Goblins would meet with someone trying to claim the deceased's vaults. As the mob reached the spiral staircase, Kingsley disapparated from Hogwarts with only Hagrid's resignation. The mob had all heard Hagrid doing so, but the letters on the desk let them know who else wasn't happy with what was going on.

-oOoOo-

After carefully checking her parents undamaged house for any magical traps, Hermione lay on her own bed and sobbed her heart out. Hanging around with Harry and Ron, Hermione thought she should be getting used to situations quickly changing - but nothing could have prepared her for what happened today. A penniless Harry was just basically forced by someone they had considered a friend and compatriot to leave Magical Britain behind. Harry's reaction was wholly predictable to anyone who even slightly knew her best friend - it was clearly a deliberate act by a corrupt and beyond redemption Ministry of Magic.

Ron's reaction deeply wounded Hermione, but again was easily predictable. The Mirror that had shown Ron's heart's desire back in their first year at Hogwarts was still amazingly accurate, and the Ministry were making all of his dreams come true. Ron would go back to Hogwarts wearing new robes - with those oh so important badges on them. There would probably be a new broom over his shoulder and enough fame to guarantee a job in the Ministry - or even a shot at Professional Quidditch. No friend, or even girlfriend could ever measure up to all of that for Ron - and Hermione cried more tears into her pillow at that realisation.

Those tears stopped the second she heard a pop in her room, Hermione's wand was instantly trained on an elf. That she recognised said elf was the only reason no spell had yet left her wand.

"Kreacher, what are you doing here?"

"Master Harry sent Kreacher to find his Miss Grangy. Master Harry was mighty worried about his Miss Grangy. Seems Master Harry was right, but Master Harry sly as fox so Kreacher not surprised be right again."

"Is Harry ok, do you know where he is? Can you take me to him?"

"Master Harry be worried about his Miss Grangy and staying in large muggle building that rent rooms. Master Harry was thinking about ordering dinner, his Miss Grangy joining him would make Master Harry very, very happy."

Harry was clearly staying in a hotel, and not one connected with magic. Jumping off her bed, Hermione was ready to go - until catching her reflection in the mirror. She needed a shower, and a definite change of clothes - but nothing in her old wardrobes were suitable. Then she remembered her red dress that had been worn to Bill and Fleur's wedding. Diving for her ever present beaded bag, she let the elf know that traveling to meet Harry was certainly something she wanted to do.

"Kreacher, I'll need to shower and change before I can go. Can you let Harry know that's a definite yes, then come back for me?"

Since the elf popped away, Hermione took that as a yes. A hot shower would be an incredible luxury, while sitting down dressed for dinner with Harry was an unbelievable bonus to end such a fucked-up day. Now all she had to find out was how Harry could afford it.

-oOoOo-

Harry was nervously walking up and down his room, waiting on Hermione. He didn't know what had happened after leaving Hogwarts, but Hermione crying in her Crawley bedroom - it had to be bad. Kreacher popped into his hotel room, accompanied by an absolutely jaw-droppingly beautiful woman. That she sprang at Harry and clung on for dear life knocked his jaw back into action.

He wrapped his arms around Hermione and gently asked the question that was eating him up. "What happened after I left?"

With her arms around her best friend, and having some time to think while crying, Hermione gave her honest opinion. "I think we were played, Harry. Someone who knew us very well set today - and us - up. All our reactions were predictable, even Ron wanting fame and fortune - and not overly bothered that both were really yours." Looking around at the lovely room just added to the questions Hermione had.

"Harry, where are we - and how can you afford this?"

Leading Hermione to the couch, Harry sat beside her and answered the first of what would be many, many questions. "We're in Liverpool, hence the Beatles themed hotel. How I can afford it is a little more complicated. I had intended to order room service so we could talk all night. Then you arrive, looking a million dollars - the lady wearing that dress deserves to be taken out to dinner."

Hermione wore her first smile since leaving Hogwarts. "While I really appreciate the compliment, I wouldn't be able to enjoy my dinner without knowing if and how you can afford it. Get the room service menu out, and I warn you now that I'm starving."

They quickly ordered a pile of food, and Harry didn't wait for it to be delivered before answering Hermione's questions. "I might not be as smart as you, Hermione, but even I could see us being set-up - long before today too. My stay at Privet Drive gave me plenty of time to think - and plan. With Dobby's help, I was able to put some of those plans in motion. Ron better hope the Ministry aren't counting on the vaults they seized from me to pay his award money, because those vaults are all empty. I was going to leave thirty sickles in each of them but didn't think the Ministry would get the reference."

Hermione was sitting there with her mouth opened in shock, even after the food arrived and Harry came back with their order. "Let's eat first, and then talk. I want you staying here tonight, rather than being alone in Crawley. I'm sorry I kept this from you, but you noticed I wasn't really surprised today - only at the speed the Ministry got their act together."

Harry though found he couldn't eat, not without getting this off his chest first. "The idea that three teenagers were the only people in the country that could deal with Voldemort is laughable, we were clearly being manipulated. Ron having a device that could track us - gifted to him by Dumbledore - was another massive red flag. I was almost ready to drag you out of that freezing tent, head to a nice warm hotel where we could eat until full, while doing my best at convincing you to leave the country with me - then Ron returned. Part of me still wishes I'd taken that option."

Hermione stopped Harry with a question. "Ron still has the deluminator. Could he, or the Ministry use it to track us?"

"The one Ron has is a transfigured copy. I placed the real one, and Dumbledore's wand, in a bank safe deposit box. Since Ron seemed fine with the Ministry stealing all my gold, I don't even feel bad about nicking it from him. I'm sorry I kept so much from you, Hermione, but I really need to make a clean break from people who think they can control my life."

Hermione was enjoying her burger, swallowing what she was chewing while shaking her head at Harry. "Like you, things troubled me about our situation and I kept secrets too. I didn't wipe my parents memories, and they're not in Australia. They're in Quebec City, Canada, as both speak fluent French. They're renting a house there but I didn't want their address - only a phone number."

Harry rose, and brought the hotel phone to the table. Recognising Hermione's look saved her having to talk with her mouth full. "Yes I can afford it, and a pair of first class tickets to Quebec too. I'm a millionaire, Hermione - many times over in fact - which was why the Ministry were so desperate to get their hands on my vaults. I collected my passport and bank cards from my deposit box while dropping off the other stuff, but only know about five words of French so you'll have to stick close to me."

With the hug Hermione laid on him, Harry felt as if she was never letting him go anywhere without her again.

-oOoOo-

Barchoke was dragged into the room in chains, forced to face a large group of angry elders. At least it appeared as if he was going to be asked some questions first - before being beheaded.

"That thief Potter broke into our bank, gained access to a vault before stealing a dragon and causing extensive damage to Gringotts during their escape. When we try to levy punitive fines against this thief, we discover every vault rented by this criminal is empty. Explain now!"

Standing as straight as his chains would allow, Barchoke answered his accusers. "Last summer, I was approached by Potter who had genuine concerns that those cowardly scum at the Ministry would manipulate circumstances to seize his vaults. Should he defeat the Dark One, Potter would be too powerful and popular for the Ministry to cope with. They would act quickly to discredit him. Should he not survive, his will left everything to his mundane born best friend - the Ministry would never accept that. Either way, the Ministry would bend or break their own laws to empty those vaults."

The next question was screamed at him. "As those vaults are now empty anyway, I fail to see your defence here."

The angrier the room got, the calmer Barchoke became. His head was still attached - so far so good. "Potter willingly signed a binding magical contract with his blood. Should the Ministry not make a move on those vaults after thirty days of the conflict ending, all monies will be returned to their vaults."

This didn't seem to dissipate any of the anger in the room. "We all know those greedy warthogs at the Ministry won't be able to resist such a juicy prize. While we will certainly enjoy watching them being thwarted on discovering those vaults are now empty, where do we get our fines paid from?"

This time Barchoke gave a predatory grin. "While there is currently no gold in those vaults, a lot of wizards owe the Potters and Blacks back rent or defaulted loan repayments. We should offer to 'find' that gold for the Ministry - of course charging our highest rates for our services. It should also be agreed that our levied fines must be paid first, and only then do the Ministry receive any gold."

The first chuckle suggested Barchoke might just keep his head, when axes and swords started to be banged off shields it was now certain. The idea of squeezing gold out of purebloods, at the behest of their own Ministry, while Gringotts claimed a percentage of every galleon bled from those wizards, felt like a plot worthy of a goblin.

Potter was a warrior, that was now beyond doubt. Warriors should not be struck down by Ministerial leeches, out to drain every coin warrior Potter possessed from his vaults. Unlike Potter, these cultural-less carbuncles possessed no honour. If this opportunity was handled correctly, Gringotts could practically crash the wizard's economy - while filling their own vaults with gold for services rendered. The wizards would basically be paying the Nation to trigger their own downfall, and only Gringotts could lend them gold in troubled times - at a fair rate of interest of course. Now that was how you fight and win a war.

-oOoOo-

The instant Hermione got through on the phone, the next ten minutes or so was more tears than talking. Pouring a Diet Coke from the minibar, Harry brought it over for a now smiling Hermione and found himself being pulled down to sit beside her.

"Mum wants to know what our plans are, and I don't know what you have up your sleeve next."

"Hermione, my plan was to have Kreacher watch you and find out when you were leaving for Australia - I intended to book the seat next to you. If you hadn't made a move in a couple of weeks, there would have been a first class ticket to Australia flying in your direction. You've been there for me for years, now it's my turn to return the favour. Whatever you want, it's yours."

Both could hear Hermione's dad on the other side of the phone - 'what did she ever see in that redhead, I can't imagine him knowing what a plane is - never mind how to book seats on it' - both ignored that as they made plans on the spot.

"I think we both need a few days rest, we don't want to arrive in Quebec as knackered as we are now. We certainly need to do some shopping too, you've seen the clothes I wear."

While agreeing with all of that, Hermione had another thought. "Harry, is there anywhere in Britain you really want to go, anything you really want to see or do? To be honest, I can't see either of us ever coming back to Britain again."

"I've never been anywhere, or seen anything so I don't really know. I'm quite happy to place myself in your capable hands. I'm loving this themed hotel though, and think an evening in The Cavern would be great."

Hearing a male groan through the phone set Hermione off laughing. "Dad is a big Beatles fan, and has been meaning to visit there for years. I think we hit a travel agent tomorrow and book what flights we want, the rest of our planning will then fall into place around that time, date and whatever airport we fly from."

Thinking about sharing some photos of The Cavern with Hermione's father, Harry had a suggestion. "We will need to add a camera to our shopping list then, make some happy memories before we leave."

With both confirming they were looking no further than getting to Quebec, Hermione chatted away and Harry could actually see the tension seeping out of her. They finally said goodbye, with another call being scheduled for tomorrow.

Wrapping her arms around Harry, Hermione melted into her best friend. "You Mister Potter are pretty special."

"I need to be, have you met my best friend?"

She just held him even tighter after that. No mention was made of the youngest two Weasleys, it wasn't time for that yet. They might even need to be out the country before broaching that subject. They were alive, warm, had eaten their full and in no danger of being attacked. That was a lot more that they'd had in many, many months, so a pair of contented friends fell asleep in each others arms on a very comfortable couch.

-oOoOo-

By the time Molly led the mob into the headmaster's office, the Minister had already left. Since the floo system was still down, Shacklebolt must have disapparated to who knows where. The letters on the desk told their own story, as it would seem the Hogwarts staff totally opposed the treatment Harry Potter had just received. Dumbledore's portrait wouldn't be telling any stories ever again, though discovering who destroyed it - and why - might throw some light on this mystery.

With magical Britain In total disarray, no one knew who to contact. The chaos also lent weight to Hagrid's parting comment - just who had elected Shacklebolt as Minister of Magic. At the moment, they had lists of questions but no idea where to go for answers. With all the senior staff at Hogwarts resigning and leaving the castle, there was no help coming from there either. It could be a few days before any authority was established that could be questioned. How much damage could be done in those few days was anyone's guess.

At lest the castle's elves were still serving food, which was why most of them were still staying in Hogwarts. Percy and Ron were the last Weasleys still up, they actually had the Gryffindor common room to themselves, so felt confident they wouldn't be overheard.

It was a serious Ron who spoke to his elder brother, Percy knew the workings of the Ministry better than any of the others. "This is looking more and more like a plot to take Harry down. I'll write to Shacklebolt in the morning, telling him I'm refusing any awards or gold. It should be the three of us, or none of us." Getting a nod of agreement from Percy, Ron then asked the question that was eating away at him. "If we can get this thing sorted, do you think Harry and Hermione would come back?"

Seeing how fragile his youngest brother was at the moment, Percy carefully framed his answer to try and alleviate some of Ron's guilt. "It's a matter of trust, Ron, and the Ministry has betrayed them at every turn. Fudge was simply appalling, his crimes against Harry too many to mention. Scrimgeour wasn't much better. Everyone knew Fudge's treatment of Harry eventually saw him ousted, so Scrimgeour spent more time and effort getting Harry to support him than actually fighting Death Eaters."

Percy needed a sip of his hot chocolate for the next bit, some of the darkest days in magical Britain. "Thicknesse declared Harry 'Undesirable Number One', and put a ten thousand galleon reward on his head. Hermione was Undesirable Number Two for failing to take part in the 'Muggle Born Registration Act' - though really it was called the 'Mudblood Relocation Program' at the Ministry. We both know Hermione was Number Two because she was friends with Harry, and would have been tortured for information on him."

This saw Ron needing a gulp of his own hot chocolate, before he could tell Percy what happened. "We were captured by Snatchers and taken to Malfoy Manor about three weeks ago. Hermione was tortured by Bellatrix Lestrange - she carved the word 'MUDBLOOD' into Hermione's arm with a cursed blade, and used the cruciatus curse on her too. Dobby died getting us out of there and to Bill's cottage. Those were really bad days - and they got worse. Then we defeat Voldemort and, the morning after, the new Minister pulls this shit. They won't come back, I wouldn't come back after all that."

Percy moved to put a brotherly arm around Ron's shoulders, those shoulders were shaking as Ron's heart broke. "We don't know if this decision can be reversed, or if the next Minister will find all new ways to fuck things up for Harry Potter. It's easy to understand why there is no trust of the Ministry from your two friends, and we can't really blame them. Even dad being elected Minister might not be enough to entice them back, and we wouldn't be able to find them anyway…"

He felt his youngest brother tense up at that, before Ron exploded off the couch and raced up the stairs to his dorm. Loud footsteps heralded his rapid return as Ron clutched something clearly precious to him in his hand.

"Dumbledore left me this in his will. It's an outputter that can capture light and restore it - but it also connects me to Harry and Hermione. Even I know it will take a day or two to arrange a trip to Australia, I might be able to contact them and talk this out before they leave."

Demonstrating the device left both brothers puzzled as nothing happened. Ron kept flicking away, getting more and more despondent. "Please, you have to work…"

Percy asked to look at it before drawing his wand and getting an unexpected result. "Ron, this is scanning as having been transfigured. Do you want to cast Finite Incantatem on it, or will I?"

Nodding for Percy to cast, Ron was shocked when his precious outputter became a roll of parchment. Nodding again for Percy to read it, Ron was even more shocked when Percy's legs went from under him and he landed on his bum sitting on the floor. Unable to speak, a shaking Percy handed the Parchment to Ron - who wisely took the precaution of sitting down before reading.

"This is for dad, declaring the Weasley's loan with the Potters is paid in full. It also says any debts we have with the Black family are also considered paid in full, this protects us from Draco Malfoy too. It's signed by Harry, and dated on his seventeenth birthday - is this legal?"

"It carries the Potter family crest, so yes it's legal. I'm really shocked that Harry was planning so far ahead."

"I used the outputter last week, so this switch is recent. Harry must have carried that parchment with him for nearly a year."

"Ron, think carefully about this before you answer, was Hermione shocked when Harry left today?"

Shaking his head, Ron was actually starting to smile. "No, she was absolutely devastated. No way was Hermione aware of this. Even when declared dead, Harry is still looking after us. If he was this organised, he'll have plans in place to contact Hermione. Harry won't let her leave the country by herself."

"We can't let anyone else know about this, Ron, this has to be a secret kept in the Weasley family. If Harry was this prepared, there's no telling what he put in place for the Ministry. You need to write your letter to Shacklebolt tonight, and I need to go and wake up dad." Taking the precious parchment from Ron, Percy headed off to the rooms his parents were using. If the two people who knew Harry best underestimated him, then what chance did the Ministry have?

-oOoOo-

There had almost been battles between the group of Elders, every single one of whom wanted to be at this meeting with the wizards. With Barchoke given the great honour of leading the Nation's response, it was decreed he would have a pair of Elders sitting either side of him - making their party five in total. The games of chance used to select these Elders saw weapons being drawn during the process, though thankfully none of those weapons drew blood. Each Elder had a personal guard standing behind them, as well as another two Gringotts guards at the door.

They weren't expecting any trouble, rather all present wanted to personally see these wizards make total arses of themselves.

Six wizards were led into the room, with Shacklebolt introducing himself as the Minister of Magic, before presenting the documentation declaring Harry James Potter as being deceased. The same document announced that, as Harry James Potter was the last of his line, the Ministry of Magic could claim the contents of any vaults rented by this individual inside Gringotts.

While the document seemed legal, it was the signatures - or rather the positions they awarded themselves that caught Barchoke's attention.

Kingsley Shacklebolt, Minister of Magic.

Elphias Doge, Chief Warlock.

Tiberius Ogden, Wizengamot Member.

Albert Runcorn, Wizengamot Member.

Edmund Parkinson, Wizengamot Member.

The Elders were sorely tempted to smile as they applied the Gringotts stamps of authenticity to the Ministry's document. Keeping the original, the Wizengamot Members and officials were presented with a Gringotts certified copy each. The Minister then produced a list of vaults they wanted the gold transferred to, amounts to be settled when they were supplied with the totals of the gold involved.

Barchoke then started the fun. "I'm afraid Gringotts has a prior claim on these vaults. You see, the day before the Battle of Hogwarts, Potter and his two friends broke into Gringotts. Not only did they try to access a vault, they had the audacity to escape by stealing one of our dragons and riding it out of the bank."

The group from the Ministry appeared shocked at that news but Barchoke was just getting started.

"There will be fines for having the audacity to break into Gringotts, extensive damages caused by our dragon being ridden into places never designed to accommodate such beasts, the purchase of another dragon to replace the one they stole, and the cost of specialised training of the new animal to guard our high security vaults. We have a document here, needing all your signatures, stating Gringotts gets its gold first - since these crimes were clearly committed before the Ministry made their declaration. We can't abide thieves profiting, even if they are dead."

The wizards all agreed this was perfectly reasonable and quickly signed, an authorised copy was again handed to each of the Minister's party. It was easy to see the greed in the wizards eyes as Shacklebolt asked the question they'd all come to hear the answer to.

"Can you give us a rough estimate of the amount of gold we'll be dealing with here? Repairs to the Ministry, Hogwarts, Hogsmead and Diagon Alley all need to be started as quickly as possible."

"I can give you the exact figure right now." Barchoke drew out the moment before answering. "None."

Kingsley was struggling to comprehend what he just heard. "None? How can it be none? Where did it all go?"

"A vault holder is perfectly entitled to take everything from his or her vault. Harry James Potter exercised that right. Client confidentiality forbids me from saying exactly when, but you have Gringotts assurances it was long before he was declared by the Ministry to be dead."

Dodge wasn't buying that. "Impossible! We had him guarded around the clock, until he left for the Burrow. Molly Weasley never lets her kids out of her sight, then Potter was Undesirable Number One - with a massive price on his head. He couldn't possibly have gotten into Gringotts, we specifically guarded against that. When did he do this? Get that gold back - Potter mustn't get his hands on it."

This saw Barchoke verbally pounce on the wizard. "Excuse me Chief Warlock, you are rapidly approaching making a massive error on your part - questioning Gringotts integrity. If you continue and actually cross that line, it will result in Gringotts doors being closed - and not opened again until a public apology is made, and the large fine Gringotts would rightly imposed is paid in full. I think a fine should be levied anyway, since you just admitted deliberately preventing one of Gringotts most important clients from entering our hallowed doors and conducting his business."

This appeared to knock all the fight out of the wizards, so Barchoke applied more pressure. "Just because you think something is impossible, doesn't mean that applies to Harry James Potter. He's been doing the impossible since he was fifteen months old - and Potter's only gotten better at it. Apparently he came back from the dead just the other night - isn't that supposed to be impossible? The gold from those vaults is no longer within Gringotts, so I don't know how we could possibly get it back - especially as today you declared Potter was officially dead."

Edmund Parkinson was not alone in being exceedingly angry. "We need that gold, Potter can't be that smart. Must be that mudblood bitch of his. What do we do now?"

With the hook baited and cast into the water, it was now time to strike and reel these floundering fools in. "We are also owed gold from Potter, and have devised a solution to alleviate both of our problems. There are quite a number of people who owe the Potter vaults gold. If we can receive Ministerial approval to collect all that gold, with a twenty percent finders fee for Gringotts, there should be enough gold recovered for everyone to share."

Pushing a contract across the table, three of the wizards didn't even read what they signed, while the remaining two hardly glanced at it. It was with great delight Barchoke handed the Ministry delegation their Gringotts certified copies. It was time for the next act.

The Minister finally introduced the last member of their group, Draco Malfoy. "As the last legitimate heir to the Black family, Draco is here to present his claim."

One of the Elders really enjoyed slapping this wizarding upstart down. "I'm sorry, but you are in error. Draco Malfoy has no claim to present here."

"What? Who else has a stronger claim than Draco here."

The next Elder then got in on the fun. "There is no legitimate claim to the Black family. There was only one member left alive, so that family was ended with the death of Harry James Potter."

Kingsley was struggling to understand what he was hearing here. "How can Draco not have a claim, his mother is a Black."

Barchoke savoured answering this question. "Narcissa Malfoy was expelled from the Black family, and her son was specifically named too - because of the mark he carried on his arm. The last head of the Black family declared anyone carrying that mark anathema to him - the Potter and Black families too."

This actually got Dodge excited. "If the Black family line is ended, then the Ministry can claim the contents of those vaults."

"You already have." This left the wizards confused, until Barchoke produced their own document declaring Potter was dead. "It says right here, the Ministry of Magic lays claim to the contents of any and all Gringotts vault rented by Harry James Potter."

Dodge was almost afraid to ask, but had to. "How much gold is in those vaults?"

"Again I've already given you that information, none. The Black family were owed a lot more gold than the Potters though, so we're confident of claiming substantial sums back."

Ogden, Runcorn and Parkinson all had loans with the Black family, loans they hadn't paid a knut to since Arcturus died in nineteen ninety one. Lucius had assured them Draco would inherit, and their debts would be wiped clean. Tiberius was now panicking, with visions of his firewhisky business being swallowed up by debt. "We didn't want the Black debts collected, only the Potter ones."

"That's not what the documents you all signed today state."

"Can we change those documents?" Tiberius blurted out in desperation.

Barchoke held up the original Ministry document. "This is an official Ministry of Magic document, declaring Harry James Potter is dead, and the Ministry want to seize everything in his rented vaults. What can we change?"

Parkinson was also sweating buckets too. "Could it be changed to say just the Potter vaults?"

Another Elder had his moment to enjoy turning the screw on this pantomime of a government. "This actually is impossible. Harry James Potter was the last member of the Potter and Black families. You can't in any legal sense declare him dead as a Potter, but still alive as a Black."

Kingsley had been rather surprised at how easy it had been to get Harry to leave yesterday, it was only now dawning on the Minister of Magic that Potter had played all of them. The only thing left to do was try and make the best of a shit situation, a situation they engineered. "How soon can we expect to see gold being added to those vaults, and transferred to the Ministry?"

"Oh Gringotts intends to move very quickly on this, and you have our assurances we will chase every knut of debt owed, interest and any non-payment of fines accrued until we get it all. When the Ministry can access that gold presents a slight problem, one that I'll let our honourable Elder explain."

The Elder sitting on Barchoke's right was the oldest, so had reserved the right to deliver the really bad news - for the Ministry of Magic that is.

"The ICW has contacted Gringotts, asking for our help. It would seem there are many British witches and wizards concerned with the way Harry James Potter has been treated, and they are contacting the ICW with those concerns in ever increasing numbers. These British wizards and witches also want the ICW to investigate how the Minister of Magic, Chief Warlock and new Wizengamot members appeared a few hours after Harry James Potter ended the Battle for Hogwarts. There will be an ICW investigation team in Britain soon, and we have been asked to deny all access to those vaults until the investigation is over. Gringotts has agreed to comply with their wishes."

As the Ministry party were now gasping like the landed fish they were, one of the Elders couldn't resist going off scrip - just to rub some salt into their Gringotts inflicted wounds. "Of course, should the Ministry, any business or individual require a loan to tide them over until the ICW investigation is finished, Gringotts will do their very best to be accommodating - at reasonable rates of interest."

Since the script was effectively now ripped up, Barchoke added a small amendment of his own. "Albus Dumbledore played fast and loose with the Potter vaults, we suspect mostly to fund his 'Order of the Phoenix'. Potter wanted to hold off pressing this matter until Riddle was defeated, not to split the light side's focus. Riddle was defeated and we can now go after the stolen gold. As I said earlier we can't abide thieves profiting, even if they are dead."

This set alarm bells ringing for Dodge, Albus had transferred gold into his Gringotts account on many occasions over the years. "What if the people receiving that gold had no idea where it came from?"

"If such a person could prove any gold they received from the Potter vaults was to provide services for Harry James Potter, they would have nothing to worry about. Otherwise, Gringotts is bound by our new contract with the Ministry of Magic to recover those funds. After all, that gold now belongs to the Ministry."

The wizards who had so confidently strutted into the meeting with nothing but greed in their eyes left displaying fear, after the Blitzkrieg Gringotts had submitted them too. The door had barely closed when the Gringotts contingent began celebrating their total financial annihilation of the wizards, and they were getting paid by the very same wizards to do so.

-oOoOo-

The two friends entered the hotel room, hung up their jackets before collapsing into their favourite couch on the planet and kicking their shoes off. Hermione's head was resting on Harry's shoulder as she glanced around the room at the many, many bags Kreacher had popped away throughout the day. "Harry, what happened? I feel a bit like Dorothy - I'm certainly not in Kansas anymore."

"Well, those flights sounded like a long hard slog, so I thought it was an opportunity to turn that slog into an exciting adventure for both of us…"

Hermione gently placed her hand on his cheek, turning Harry's head until she was looking straight into his eyes. "You've never been able to lie to me Potter, so let's have the real reason." She actually saw fear reflected back from those expressive green eyes, gently stroking his cheek managed to slowly banish that fear away. Then she got the truth from Harry.

"Your my best friend, Hermione - my only friend when we step on that plane. When we reach Quebec, things are bound to change between us. This might be our last adventure together, I wanted to make it as good, and as long, as I thought I could get away with. I should have remembered that Hermione Granger misses nothing."

Leaning forward, Hermione kissed Harry's forehead, before resting her own forehead on his. "I'll tell you what Hermione Granger would miss - you. Twice in the last few days I thought I'd lost you forever, it broke my heart. Yes things will change when we get to Quebec, but look around you. Things have already changed - and I'm still here. I promise you that this will not be our last adventure because you're my very best and only friend too. The fact that I love these awesome new adventure planning skills you're developing means you're never getting away from me again. Now get me that phone so I can phone home before I burst from excitement."

Now wearing a broad smile, Harry brought the phone over. His smile only got wider as he listened to Hermione's side of the conversation.

"Hi mum… Yes we got a flight booked but there's been a slight change of plans…. No, no, we'll be flying out of Britain tomorrow afternoon, it's just our itinerary that's changed. Harry wanted to turn this trip into a bit of an adventure, so we're flying out of London on Concord to New York."

Hearing shouting coming from the other end of the call, Harry's anxiety didn't have time to spike before Hermione's laughter banished that anxiety before it even gained a toehold.

"Yes, dad, Concord. Harry bought a cracking new digital camera and a laptop, give us your email address and we'll send you pictures. We're planning on spending a few days in New York, then getting the train to Montreal for a bit of sightseeing… That would be Fantastic! Harry, mum and dad want to meet us in Montreal, we could spend a few days there together before heading to Quebec."

Reaching for the folder that held all their arrangements, Harry pulled out the Hotel in Montreal documents and nodded - that was enough for Hermione.

"Harry will phone the hotel after we're finished talking and book you the room next to ours…" A sharp intake of breath and Hermione's blush drew Harry's attention, the determination she displayed though saw her power through whatever comment had caused her to blush.

"Harry and I have been living together for the best part of a year - and only last night was in the luxury we have here. I've lost him twice within the last few days. I thought he was dead - the Ministry have actually declared him to be dead - so I'm not letting him out of my sight again… Sorry mum, I didn't mean to make you cry but we've been fighting a war over here. A war we won, then lost - that's why we're getting out of Britain and won't be back. I'll call you with the details of your hotel booking, just as soon as Harry makes it. Speak to you soon."

Harry's arm was around her as Hermione finished the call. "When I'm phoning the hotel, I could change our booking to single rooms…"

"Don't you dare, Harry Potter. It's only having you close at night, being able to touch you and let me know you're really are here that's keeping me sane. My parents will just have to get used to it, because I can't see that changing anytime soon."

Harry couldn't contain his smile at hearing that, he picked up the phone to book Hermione's parents a room next to theirs. He also remembered something else that needed dealing with, now that their time for leaving Britain was set.

-oOoOo-

As people in the great hall began receiving Gringotts owls that would dramatically change their lives, Andromeda took her grandson and headed up to the room she'd been using. She didn't need any owl to tell her how dramatically her life had been changed, with her husband, daughter and son-in-law dead - her life was now changed beyond all recognition. That one of her sisters had killed Nymphadora, while the other now sat in the Great Hall pretending her only remaining sister didn't exist left Andromeda wishing to just leave everything behind. The bundle she held in her arms though meant she couldn't, now as grandmother with sole responsibility for little Teddy she simply had to carry on. The pop of an elf arriving drew her attention.

"Lady Drommie, my master sent you this - and me. My master must leave the country, and Kreacher would be proud to work for a Black - and master's little godson."

She was well aware of who Teddy's godfather was, and why he couldn't be here in person. The letter explained Harry was leaving the country, with no idea where he was going or if he would ever come back. He offered Andromeda Kreacher to help with Teddy's care, and a very large bank draft from a well known muggle bank.

Andromeda had to sit down, Kreacher immediately bringing her a glass of ice water. This now gave her other options, options she had been desperate searching for. After being married to Ted for so long, she could easily live and raise Teddy in the Muggle world. Knowing how hard her daughter had struggled to control her metamorphic abilities through, living with Teddy as muggles might not be a possibility.

A little cottage in France might be though, and the cheque from Harry would easily cover that - and much more. She couldn't return to her own home, too many happy memories attached to there that would now be painful. Andromeda had been lost in her thoughts and only just noticed Kreacher had changed Teddy, and was now giving him a bottle. That Teddy's little ears were trying to transform into tiny elf ones finally ended the living as muggles option.

"Kreacher, Teddy and I would love to have you as part of our family - but I don't think we can live in Britain either. Would you be interested in moving to somewhere in France?"

Sitting feeding the little master, the years seemed to fall from the elf. "Kreacher would like that, very much like that."

-oOoOo-

The friends had spent a brilliant last night in Liverpool. A lovely dinner was followed by a visit to the Cavern, where a live band were playing Beatles songs - what else? They had sung their hearts out all night, before walking back to the hotel. Neither of the beds had looked inviting so they snuggled up on the very comfortable couch with a duvet. Hermione gave a little giggle.

"I was just imagining Ron being with us tonight, we'd have blown his mind."

It was a thoughtful Harry who answered. "The British witches and wizards are very insular. They like their little world the way it is, and actively resist anything that would change it. I knew I would have to leave Britain, and that was before the Ministry declared me dead. I couldn't make a life or family here, what happened when I was a toddler follows me into every room I enter."

"And the Weasleys?"

It took a moment for Harry to study his feelings and answer as honesty as he could. "When I Disapparated from Hogwarts, I was sorry to leave Ron like that. I was absolutely devastated to leave you alone, thinking your parents were in Australia and didn't remember you. I couldn't imagine Ron going to Australia with you, and I had no intention of leaving you to face that nightmare alone."

This got a pained smile from Hermione, encouraging Harry to continue. "I knew last summer what was in front of me. So many times I thought about just leaving everyone to their fate, but I simply couldn't do that. I didn't want Ginny involved in any way with all of this, which was why I broke up with her. She was fifteen when we briefly got together, no way was she prepared for what was coming - shit, I wasn't prepared. You know I didn't want you involved either, but I also understood I would never get the job done without you - and I was right."

Hermione was holding onto Harry, realising how hard that had been for him to say. She now had to examine her own feelings, and explain them to her best friend. "I thought Ron had changed, hearing his reasoning for accepting that award told me he hadn't. What really hurt though was Ron actually expected me to accept as well. That was the final proof for me that Ron still has no idea who Hermione Granger is. It really hurt to leave but I'm sure I made the right decision. We can't trust any Minister of Magic, they just hold too much power over our lives - and tend to use that power for their own ends."

Harry totally agreed, but took it a step further. "I don't know if that's the same in every country. If it is, I'd be quite happy living my life as a muggle - as long as you were still in my life."

As Hermione snuggled into Harry, she was glad they'd finally spoke about the elephant in the room. Tomorrow the had to leave Liverpool, head to London and board a supersonic jet that was going to fly them to their new life's at twice the speed of sound. With that pleasant thought at the forefront of her mind, and wrapped in Harry's arms, she fell asleep on the sofa for the second night running.

-oOoOo-

Arthur arrived at Gringotts very early, only to discover massive queues that extended out the bank and onto Diagon Alley itself had already formed. Left with no other option, Arthur joined the queue that crawled toward the Gringotts tellers. The demeanour of the witches and wizards leaving the bank didn't offer any comfort to those still in the queue. In fact, it really ramped up the tension of those awaiting their turn.

All had been sent notices from Gringotts declaring they owed the Potter or Black vaults life changing sums of money. Watching as others clearly in the same situation left the bank with shocked and glum faces didn't bode well for those still queueing. Goblins were difficult to deal with at the best of times, and this clearly wasn't the best of times.

After waiting over three hours, Arthur was finally face to face with a teller. He handed over the summons that Gringotts had sent him, and the teller merely growled in his direction.

"How do you propose to pay this debt, wizard?"

Without relinquishing his grip on the parchment Harry had present the Weasley family with, Arthur held up the document for the teller to read.

"You are wise to keep such a tight grip on that document, wizard. People have been murdered for a lot less than that. Take a seat over there, Account Manager Barchoke will try and make time for you."

After only twenty five minutes, Arthur found himself being escorted into a rather opulent office.

"Mister Weasley, please take a seat. You have nothing to worry about, I can feel Harry James Potter's magic on that document from over here. There is simply no question of it's authenticity, and any gold Gringotts had requested you pay in this matter is now wiped clean."

It was a good job Arthur had been offered a seat, his legs wouldn't have been able to support him after hearing that fantastic news.

"You also received money from the Potter account through Dumbledore and, while your document covers that eventually too, I'm delighted to say your family spent any money they received on Harry James Potter's welfare. Just to give you some idea of how rare that is, you are the first today - and I'm not expecting to be able to utter those words again over this matter."

"Harry means a lot to my family, we're all heartbroken that he's being forced to leave Britain. We understand why Harry had to leave, it doesn't lessen the hurt we're all feeling though. If you have any method of contacting Harry, it would be appreciated if you could pass on our best wishes for whatever his future holds. He will always be welcome in any Weasley household."

"While I appreciate your sentiment, Gringotts has no knowledge of where Harry James Potter is, or where he may be headed."

With that, Arthur left Barchoke's office and then Gringotts. If his wide smile was offering false hope to those still waiting in the queue then that was just too bad. Arthur simply couldn't hide his smile.

-oOoOo-

They awoke in the morning to find their newly purchased cases packed, and sitting at the bottom of the unused beds. A letter from Andromeda was on the table, along with a copy of the Daily Prophet. Harry untangled himself from Hermione and the duvet to snatch up the letter.

"Andromeda says Kreacher is fitting in perfectly, and thanks me for the cheque. She says they can't stay in Britain either, and intend to move to France when she gets some things settled. We're welcome to visit anytime, and apparently Kreacher will hear me call if we're actually in France."

"Ok, that's added to our 'what to do after Quebec' list."

"There's a list for that?" Harry joked back.

"Potter, I thought you knew I had a list for everything."

Their joking mood changed as they picked up the Prophet. They're were so many astonishing headlines, they almost made up the entire front page. The main headline though was accompanied by a quite astonishing photograph of Harry's final battle with Voldemort. Potter Banishes Dark Lord was obviously the main headline. Some of the rest though were almost unbelievable.

Harry Potter Declared Dead by New Minister of Magic

Harry Potter Survives Second Killing Curse and Forced to Leave Britain

Ministry Seize Potter and Black Vaults

Ministry Authorise Gringotts to Collect All Debts Owed to these Vaults

ICW Delegation Arrives in Britain as Concerned Citizens Demand Answers

New Ministry Under Investigation for Serious Corruption and Fraud

Businesses Facing Closures due to Financial Irregularities Discovered by Gringotts

Ministry Actions has Wizarding Economy Facing Serious Downturn

Each headline had a page number where that headline would be covered in great detail, neither Harry nor Hermione opened the newspaper.

Harry was almost in shock. "This wasn't what I intended. After the last war that saw my parents murdered, a lot of Death Eaters used their gold to buy their way out of Azkaban. How did trying to stop that happening again escalate into this?"

Thinking for a moment, Hermione had an idea of what might have caused this. "This is obviously coming from the goblins. I wonder if we pissed them off by breaking into Bella's vault and stealing one of their dragons?"

Not being able to help himself, Harry started to giggle. "Just you saying that out loud brings home how ridiculous the entire episode was. Can we get T-shirts printed - I stole a Gringotts dragon!."

This had Hermione giggling too, before becoming serious again. "Harry, this is not your fault. Gringotts wouldn't have been able to go after these people if they had stuck to the rules. The one thing living in Magical Britain has taught us, there are many witches and wizards who think these rules are for everybody else - and don't apply to them." Hermione actually transfigured the newspaper into a map of New York, just to ensure it wouldn't raise any eyebrows as they boarded the plane.

"While it certainly won't change anything for us, my mum and dad might get something out of reading it. That picture of you on the front page should end any and all attempts to move us into two single rooms."

This drew a hug from Harry before they got ready to head for the airport. The Concorde would have them in New York three hours after takeoff - now that was a type of magic both of them could live with.

The End

Thanks for reading my first ever one-shot.