Chapter 4
Ragnok had expected nothing less and the preparations were well under way.
Hermione asked, "How are we going to do this? Harry is not casting Avada Kedavra, even on Voldemort!"
"Actually Hermione, I don't think Harry would be capable of casting the killing curse as you have to feel hate for the spell to work. Harry can get angry like the rest of us,"
Both Granger women couldn't hide their blushes
The goblin leader continued, "but there is a great leap necessary to get from anger to hate. The prophecy stated, 'with love they'll see the bloodlines fall,' so a spell based on positive emotions would be best."
Harry and Hermione were smiling.
"Ragnok, can we have your permission to perform a spell inside Gringotts?" Asked Hermione.
Ragnok answered formally, "Lord and Lady Gryffindor are friends to the goblin nation and entitled to all the privilages this title entails."
Hermione was shocked at the honour bestowed upon them while Harry wished he'd paid more attention in Professor Binns class.
Hermione explained to her bemused parents, "friend to the goblin nation meant that the goblins considered them family, and the only thing worse than messing with a goblin was trying to mess with their family, This is a great honour and a very rare occurrence with the last known being Godric Gryffindor."
Both wizards took out their wands and while thinking of their first kiss said, "Expecto Patronum."
Prongs shot from Harry's wand but instead of silver his form was now gold, while bigger and brighter than ever before.
Hermione expected her otter patronus but was clearly surprised when a golden doe, matching Harry's in size and brightness, burst forth and, finding no enemy's to engage, proceeded to nuzzle prongs in front of a shocked room.
While Dan and Emma, as muggles couldn't see the golden animals, the whole room was filled with so much positive energy that the dentists hoped it could be bottled for use in their waiting room.
Dan asked Ragnok, "just how much danger are these two going to be in?"
"We will be taking goblin guards and have contacted Amelia Bones at the ministry. They will want a presence so it should be perfectly safe. Voldemort and all his followers are unconscious after all."
"Oh good," said Emma, "then you wont mind us coming along."
Hermione tried to object when her mother interrupted, "listen to me, neither of you are leaving my sight until we have had time for a talk!"
The emphasis on the word talk had Hermione beet red and when a confused Harry received the telepathic message, 'birds and bees!'from his wife, a shudder went down his back while his complexion had a distinctly green tinge to it.
Hermione couldn't help but hug him as she thought, 'he's ready to finish off a dark lord but terrified of my mother!' Both teens burst out laughing and any tension in the room was gone.
Four goblins entered the room carrying bundles that were presented to the teens and both elves.
"We didn't think school robes were appropriate for this task," said a smiling Ragnok.
Harry and Hermione received dragon hide armour and black robes of a material so fine it was obviously made by the goblins while, with a snap of their fingers, Dobby and Winky looked splendid in their new tunics and cloaks to match their friends.
It was then that Harry noticed the Potter and Gryffindor crests on each of the four cloaks, he decided they need to learn the elf magic needed for a quick change of clothes.
Harry and Hermione were led into another room to change and as the door closed two shy, blushing teenagers remained.
This was the first time they had been alone together since the discovery of their bond and neither was sure how to act.
It was predictably Hermione who regained control first.
"Oh for goodness sake Harry, we're only changing clothes and you are allowed to look at your wife!" she said while removing her clothing.
For all her supposed bravery, Hermione was terrified that Harry wouldn't like her. All her teenage insecurities were running rampant as she was now wearing only a bra and knickers.
While trying to put on the dragon hide trousers she suddenly got an image of Hagrid kissing Madam Maxime, it was a hurting Hermione who asked, "Harry, what are you doing?"
A shirtless Harry embarrassingly replied, "well you said I could look which caused a…problem! With no cold shower available I tried to think of something to make the problem go away. I'm sorry Hermione."
She pounced on him and kissed him senseless while thinking, 'he finds me attractive!'
As the kiss finished, Harry held Hermione's face in his hands, "Hermione you are the most gorgeous sight I have ever seen! You took my breath away and I can't believe your mine, though I think we better hurry up and change before your mother breaks down the door for our talk."
With shyness well and truly banished, dressing finished quickly and as they walked back to the other room wearing the skin tight armour. With their cloaks billowing in a way that would make Snape jealous everyone could see them for what they really were, the two most powerful warriors for the light in the magical world.
Everyone that is except for an auror called Dawlish.
Madam Bones and four aurors, along with Ragnok and a guard of ten goblins, Dobby, Winky and Hermione's parents were waiting for the young warriors but as they walked over one of the aurors started shouting.
"The ministry's in total disarray, no-one knows what's happening and we're here pandering to attention seeking Potter and his mudblood girlfriend! You can't be..."
He didn't get to say anymore as an unseen force threw him against the wall and held him there, a meter off the ground.
The other three aurors watched their stricken colleague slam into the wall and started to reach for their wands to assist, but the sight of eleven very angry, heavily armed goblins changed their minds.
Harry strode towards him, "you will apologise to my wife if you value your life!"
Amelia Bones had never seen such power and he didn't even have a wand in his hand.
"Excuse me Mr Potter."
"I am Lord Gryffindor Madam Bones. My wife and I are going to win this war and for what? For my wife to be insulted by a ministry employee, an auror no less! If this is the attitude we have to endure, could someone please explain why we should save you?"
"I apologise Lord Gryffindor, but we're all a bit on edge today with the unexplained happenings at the ministry and to some of the wizarding worlds post prominent citizens," said Amelia Bones
"Today my wife and I mortally wounded Lord Voldemort, which had a considerable impact on his marked death eaters and now we are leaving here to finish the job. You and the other aurors may accompany us but he stays till I've got time to deal with the matter."
Bones was in total shock at the implications of what this young man had just said; Voldemort back, the minister for magic a death eater, we're going up against the dark lord.
She looked to Ragnok for confirmation.
"Everything the Lord Gryffindor has said is the truth. The entire goblin nation is behind the Lord and Lady Gryffindor and I take it as a matter of honour that the Lady was insulted in Gringotts so, begging the Lords pardon, but we have first claim on him."
Ragnok winked at Harry while the auror called Dawlish wet himself.
"Thank you Ragnok, we've bigger fish to fry" said a now calm Harry, as two more goblin guards entered and tried, without success, to remove the now terrified auror from the wall.
"Excuse me Lord Gryffindor, could you release the prisoner?" Harry just glanced over and Dawlish hit the floor before being led away.
"Madam Bones the portkey leaves in one minute, it's your choice whether you wish to witness the demise of Voldemort." said Ragnok, producing a long spear for everyone to hold on to.
Harry and Hermione had experienced this form of travel so were coaching her parents, now dressed with the same Potter/Gryffindor cloaks over their muggle clothes.
Harry wondered if there had ever been a stranger group to take a portkey: eleven goblins, two elves, a pair of muggles and just before activation the aurors joined making it three witches and three wizards.
-OoOoO-
Everyone arrived safely outside the house Harry had seen in a vision that summer. The goblin guards quickly established a perimeter around the building, although no movement was detected nothing could be taken for granted.
Harry led the way assuming they would be in the same room from the summer vision while Hermione never left his side and everyone carried their wand ready for use.
The party reached the stairs with Harry and Hermione in front and Dobby with Winky very closely behind.
A couple of goblin guards were followed by Ragnok and the Grangers, who now realized just how far out of their depth they were. Amelia Bones and the aurors brought up the rear.
As they approached the open door of the room where Harry expected the Voldemort thing to be, pathetic whimpering noises could be heard.
They stopped outside the door and, deciding to take no chances, cast the patronus charm while still on the landing.
Using the memory of their kiss in the changing room, they lit up the whole house as prongs and his mate charged into the room looking for a target. Finding one crawling on the floor in the most hideous, baby sized form imaginable.
Hermione's doe didn't hesitate, just lowered her head and charged into the creature which screamed at the love and positive energy the doe was pouring into its evil body, quickly overwhelming the dark magic keeping it alive and it was no more.
As the creature died a green gas left its body taking an almost human form and looking for someone else to inhabit, but this was the moment prongs pounced His antlers pierced through the green mist, causing sounds that were beyond screams to be heard as the last piece of Tom Marvelo Riddle's soul died.
As prongs was ending Voldemort's reign of terror, Harry entered the room, held his wand aloft and cast the Praedia Bellica spell causing a pencil thin jet of white light to leave his wand and pass through the dispersing green mist.
Suddenly more and more beams shot out his wand one of them hitting a hidden figure who was lying in a corner of the room.
It took a few minutes for the beams to stop by which time he had been joined in the room by Hermione and Ragnok, with the elves barring the door to everyone else.
Harry actually felt drained between prongs and the numerous white beams, he'd been using a lot of magical power. When Hermione wrapped him in her arms and planted a gentle kiss on his lips, it was like plugging into an electrical socket as his core recharged.
Hermione felt it as well, 'their powers combined this world will save'"does that mean we can share power as well as thoughts? We never did ask Ragnok for a book on soul bonds did we?"
"Been kind of a busy day love," chuckled Harry.
Dan and Emma joined them in the hug with tears of relief running unashamedly down both their cheeks.
Harry gestured for Dobby and Winky to join them saying, "you're both part of our family" so the group was back to six with two elves sobbing with happiness.
Ragnok was standing looking proudly at the group hug while the aurors checked the room.
Harry said, "Madam Bones the body over there is Peter Pettigrew who, as you can see, was alive moments ago. My godfather, Sirius Black spent twelve years in Azkaban without a trial for crimes committed by this man. Fudge knew this last year but we now understand why no action was taken. Poetic really, as Sirius is alive while Fudge died a death eater. I expect his pardon to be announced by tomorrow at the latest."
"You have my word justice will be done Lord Gryffindor. Can you please explain what happened here tonight? I'm sure that's the dark lords wand but this thing and the snake?" Amelia asked.
"The thing is Voldemort; it's mostly made-up of dark magic and snake venom. With his loyal servant over there not able to care for it, the thing was dying. My wife and I used the patronus charm, positive energy and love were like poison to it and Voldemort's spirit was destroyed as well. No come backs this time." said Harry
A pink haired auror approached Harry, "hi, my name is Tonks and Sirius Black is my cousin. If you see him could you say hi from me. My mother never believed he was guilty, she knew your mother and father as well. She always said Sirius would die before he betrayed them."
"Thanks Tonks, guess that makes you family as well," he gave the startled young witch a hug and her hair changed colour, "this has been a real red letter day for family but tiring to say the least."
Looking at Hermione, "I think it's time to go home love, how about you?"
Hermione smiled at her husband, "second best idea you've had all day dear. Ragnok any luck with that book we asked for?"
Ragnok pulled a slim volume out of his pocket and handed it to Hermione, "I will see you tomorrow as we have many things to do, although the issues we discussed today are well in hand."
Harry shook Ragnok's hand, "thank you for everything and please wait till tomorrow before imposing anything too permanent on our problems. I at least want to hear their side. Madam Bones I would like to see you tomorrow as well if that can be arranged. I trust you and sadly there's not many in the ministry of magic I can say that about."
"For what you have done I will always be available Lord Gryffindor. The wizarding world owes you a debt that can never be repaid."
"Try telling Rita Skeeter that!" said Hermione, "Mum, Dad hold on. Winky, Dobby take us home." And they were gone.
-OoOoO-
At the burrow that evening, Molly and Arthur were sitting listening to the radio for news bulletins, the whole magical world was in an uproar.
Witches and wizards had collapsed all over the country, what caused it? was it contagious? could it happen again?
Since everyone collapsed at once and, as yet no repeat occurrence had been reported, things had quietened slightly but the worry was still there. Who would be next?
The radio caught their attention again, "We now have an announcement from Amelia Bones, who has just been appointed acting minister for magic." The husband and wife stared at the box in anticipation.
"Good evening, I would like to put everyone's mind at rest by saying we now know what caused the mass collapse and it will not, I repeat will not effect anyone else."
Had the ministries monitoring devices not already been destroyed, they would have been sorely tested by the surge in positive magical energy from all over the country that could have run a small town.
"Earlier today Lord and Lady Gryffindor battled he who... Lord Voldemort to his severe injury. He then began drawing power from his marked death eaters causing them all to collapse. Tonight I was part of a group that accompanied them both to his lair and finished Voldemort for good."
Energy output was now on a city scale.
"And who are the heroic Lord and Lady Gryffindor? Why none other than Harry Potter and his new wife Hermione Potter nee Granger."
The verbal explosion at the burrow was probably unique in the wizarding world, as Arthur Weasley stared blankly at the instrument that had just pronounced their doom, his wife yelled at the top of her voice "NOOOO..."
Molly had the potion all prepared, was ready to add it to some cakes for Harry when that bloody tournament took over.
She couldn't have him fighting dragons while doped on love potion, he could get killed then where would they be?
What the hell was Albus playing at letting him marry? Just wait till she got hold of that worthless son of hers, falling out with Harry and pushing him into the mudblood bitches arms. She would..
We'll never know what she would because at that moment the front and back doors of the burrow were simultaneously blown apart. Before Molly or Arthur had time to even think about their wands, a dozen goblin guards had burst into the room, slapping magic suppressing manacles on them both.
The guard who was obviously in charge withdrew a scroll from his tunic and read:
"Molly Weasley and Arthur Weasley, you are charged with crimes against a friend to the goblin nation and as such you will be tried under goblin law."
"What are you talking about? What have we done and who is this friend? There hasn't been a friend of the goblin nation for centuries, I work at the ministry so release us this instant." Shouted Arthur.
The burrow was being torn apart as the goblins searched for evidence, when a flask of potion was placed in the head guards hand, removing the lid, he sniffed the contents before looking at them with clear contempt.
"The Lord and Lady Gryffindor have been awarded friend status." He said.
Both Weasley's knew they were screwed.
-OoOoO-
At number 4 Privet Drive, Vernon and Petunia Dursley were sitting in front of the biggest television in their street, feet up, glass of wine in hand and bemoaning the quality of programs available. All things considered a perfect evening!
The perfect evening rather quickly went pear shaped due to the unscheduled interruption of about a dozen evil looking creatures with the longest knives they had ever seen. They effortlessly threw Vernon into a wall and kept him there by means of a goblin sword under his chins.
As the goblins began their search, the contrast between Dudley and Harry's bedroom caused their mood to darken, but when they found his old bedroom under the stairs - all hell broke loose!
A seriously pissed off goblin can do a lot of damage, but if you multiply that by twelve and drop them into the middle of a muggle house the result is utter carnage.
The goblins portkeyed out of Little Whinging with both Dursleys in tow and without a word being spoken, less than five minutes after entering.
At number 4 Privet Drive not one item inside the house remained intact and no pieces bigger than a matchbox could be found – the destruction was total.
-OoOoO-
The bearded old man in the Granger's back garden only required a fishing pole to conform with the muggles idea of a garden gnome, a six foot garden gnome maybe but a gnome none the less.
Albus Dumbledore was loosing his patience. As well as his job, his position as Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards and the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, his Order of Merlin, First Class - NO! He could save this. He was Albus bloody Dumbledore after all – the most powerful wizard of his time. All he needed was the little mudbloods parents, that would get him the mudblood, and through her Potter.
He could do this, though what he could do without is the twenty goblin guards, in full body armour with weapons drawn, that had just appeared. Ah well, time to go – shit! anti-apparition wards so emergency portkey it is – deep shit! anti portkey wards as well.
"What can I help you with this fine night?" he said while spotting a gap in their lines. He decided to make a run for it as, once outside the erected wards portkey travel and apparition would be possible.
He drew his wand and fired stunners into the goblins while running through the gap, suddenly the ground wrapped around him and he was underwater. Having dropped his wand he found the more he struggled the more entangled in this strange ground he became, with freezing water trying to enter his lungs blackness overtook him. Albus Dumbledore had never seen a pool cover before.
-OoOoO-
The group arrived back in Gryffindor apartments to be greeted by a cleaner, but no less frustrated Sirius Black, who looked to have worn a groove in the carpet pacing up and down.
"Harry Potter! You are not moving from that spot until you tell me what the hell is going on."
A smiling Harry, with his arm around Hermione's waist couldn't resist winding up his now scrubbed and brushed godfather. "OK! short version, we're married, voldie and all his minions have kicked the bucket and your pardon should be through by tomorrow! Any questions?"
A stunned Sirius couldn't seem to get his mouth and brain to connect but did manage to croak, "are you serious?"
Quick as a flash Emma replied, "I thought that was you, I'm Emma and this is my husband Dan."
Sirius Black proceeded to do something he hadn't done in many years, he roared with laughter before grabbing Harry and Hermione and dancing around the room. His laughter was infectious and soon everyone joined in.
Harry's comment of, "way to impress the in-laws Sirius," started the whole scene over again.
The all ended collapsed into the various sofas and armchairs spread about the room with Hermione in her usual position on Harry's lap.
Emma asked, "where exactly is here and why aren't we at home?"
Hermione was about to explain when a large cat bounded onto her knee, demanding attention just as a snowy owl landed on the back of their chair and affectionately nipped Harry's ear.
"Crookshanks, Hegwig how did you get here?" said Hermione, while scratching a now purring cat behind its ear.
Harry just looked at the elves and it was a rather subdued Dobby who supplied the answer.
"Your trunks were moved into the master suit and your familiars were brought here for their protection," he said.
He turned to Dan and Emma, "you will find some of your belongings in the first guest room. When they were collected a certain Albus Dumbledore was seen sitting in your garden, waiting on you returning home we presume."
Godric chose this moment to make his presence known to the astonishment of the Grangers. "Until order returns to the wizarding world this is the safest place in Britain. There will surely be some retaliation attempts and, as muggles I'm afraid you will be easy targets."
"Mum and dad Godric is right, they would use you to get to us. We're all going to have to sit down to discuss the future but not tonight please, we all need a good nights sleep before tackling anything else."
Emma went straight into mother mode, "and just where will you be sleeping young lady?"
"MUM! I shall be sleeping, and I mean sleeping with my husband. We shared our first kiss today and are not ready to go beyond that yet, but we just can't bear to be parted."
Harry had his arms round his now blushing wife, "Hermione and I can already share thoughts, emotions and magical power. With one kiss, Voldemort and his death eaters were wiped out. We all need to know a lot more about this bond before we unintentionally destroy Britain!"
Sirius couldn't help it, he just couldn't do stern parent and the thought of little Harry destroying Big Ben just cracked him up and he was nearly on the floor with laughter.
Dan was clueless how to handle this situation, the standard 'hurt my daughter I kill you' doesn't really apply when the boy in question can slam an armed magical policeman, who insulted Hermione into a wall just by looking at him.
He almost chuckled at the thought of what he would do to anyone who dared to try and cause her harm.
Hermione was just as powerful as Harry and nearly destroyed a building when she heard what Dumbledore had done, how the hell were you supposed to discipline the two most powerful teenagers in the world?
Then there was this marriage, the fact they adored each other and he liked Harry, so what to do?
When Harry made his 'destroy Britain' joke, Dan's mind screamed 'TMI' before joining Sirius in laughter.
Emma was left as the sole voice of parenthood but what could she do? It was an issue of trust and she had always trusted her daughter.
Her choice of young man couldn't be faulted as Harry had impressed the hell out of her, and impressing Emma Granger was not an easy thing to do.
She decided to cut them a break but not let them off the hook entirely, "Hermione Jane Potter, we will be having a talk and I would really like a look at the book Ragnok gave you when you've read it."
Hermione was smiling knowing her mum had deliberately said Potter to take any sting out of the remark.
Her parents were doing their best to cope with the situation and she loved them for it, "sure mum, next few days I promise."
She now had a butterbeer in her hand and looking around, everyone had drinks with her parents and Sirius had champagne, Dobby and Winky were holding glasses of pumpkin juice while Harry, like her had butterbeer.
Dobby raised his glass, "To the demise of darkness, the freedom of Sirius and the joining of the two finest people I know!" they all drank to that.
Harry thought, 'we really need to sit down with those two though I much prefer them this way'
'Its on my to do list love' answered Hermione.
-OoOoO-
Minerva McGonagall sat in the Hogwarts great hall looking around the tables wondering what else could happen today.
She knew her two favourite pupils were missing from her house table but others had also left the school as families were effected by grab arm and collapse disease, three teachers had been infected and taken to the infirmary.
She had just about got over the shock of one of them transforming into an already dead convicted death eater when Poppy reported that the three of them had just passed away.
Where the hell was Albus?
He had shot out the school as if his robes were on fire and hadn't been heard from since. Thankfully the damage to the castle was minimal and quickly repaired, although the potions department will require to be completely restocked.
She had allowed the Wizarding Wireless Network to be broadcast into the great hall, everyone was desperate for news.
Madam Bones announcement that Voldemort was finally gone created the loudest cheer ever heard at Hogwarts, revealing the identity of Lord and Lady Gryffindor was met with total silence as all heads turned towards the empty seats normally occupied by the couple before bedlam erupted.
Ron Weasley's temper seemed to know no bounds as he shouted at the top of his voice about them going behind his back.
Nobody could actually figure out where this sense of betrayal came from as the whole school had heard about their latest, and final falling out in the Gryffindor common room.
His young sister was crying uncontrollably while the twins offered comfort, though she was by no means the only witch crying at the news of Harry's marriage to Hermione she seemed the most distraught.
Minerva decided it was time to open that forty-year-old bottle of single malt; she needed a wee dram tonight!
-OoOoO-
Harry climbed into bed beside Hermione as she put the soul bond book down and cuddled into him.
"Hermione is this real? I keep expecting to wake up in the dorm and realise I'm late for double potions," he asked
"Harry, if I wake up in my dorm tomorrow then you are going to have one extremely pissed off witch to deal with!"
Hermione waved her hand and the lights went out.
Chapter 5
Harry woke to his arms full of a certain brown haired witch and thought 'I could get used to waking like this'
'You better as I plan on being here a while' came the reply from Hermione but Harry could tell there was a hint of sadness in her thoughts.
"What's the matter love? Do I snore? Steal all the covers?" said Harry trying to lift her spirits.
She held him tighter "oh heavens no Harry! Nothing like that, I'm just being silly that's all!"
"Hermione Potter being silly, now this I've got to hear! You know we can't keep secrets from each other so out with it."
Hermione buried her face into his chest to hide her blushes
"Harry I'm just being a silly little girl whose fantasy was to walk down the aisle and have the prince of her dreams waiting, with everyone who'd ever called me buck toothed, ugly bookworm, bushy haired, insufferable know it all there to watch! After reading the book last night we know that's not possible but I've have the prince of my dreams so nothing else matters!"
Harry felt her warm tears land on his chest and thought his heart would explode with the love he felt for his wife.
Kissing the top of her head he asked "How does next Saturday sound? I know Christmas would be more romantic but I have a date that nothing will make me break so Saturday works for me"
Hermione lifted her head and looked at Harry with the confusion evident in her eyes.
Harry smiled at her "Ok you want the words! Hermione Jane Potter I would be honoured if you would consent to being my Bride next Saturday at the venue of your choice."
He wasn't sure whether Hermione had grown extra limbs or cast a silent full body bind as the hug seemed to squeeze the life out of him, but as long as she kept kissing like this there was no chance of him complaining!
When they finally decided breathing wasn't optional but actually a necessity Harry held her tight and asked "so no witty banter, no 'kiss me' just straight to the point!"
Hermione was now laughing "Harry you know we're older now so why waste time talking when we could be kissing!"
"Now there's the genius I married" said Harry placing a kiss on the tip of her nose "but if I'm not mistaken we just added to an already very long to-do list so I suggest it's time to face the parents and godparent or we could stay here all day?"
Hermione gave him a gentle kiss on the lips before untangling herself and heading into the bathroom for a shower.
I hate it when she's right thought Harry "Winky" he called
She appeared instantly
"Good morning Winky, how is everyone this morning? And may I say you look splendid in your tunic"
Harry didn't know till that moment that elves could blush but Winky had a definite pink hue to her cheeks
"Morning Harry, the Grangers and Sirius had a few more brandies after you and Hermione went to bed so I have some hangover cure ready for them"
Harry laughed, "That's brilliant Winky I'm sure they'll appreciate it! Could we have breakfast for seven in about twenty minutes please?"
Winky was about to protest about the number for breakfast but one look at Harry made her smile and change her mind "yes Harry"
-OoOoO-
Harry and Hermione were first into the 'common room' and went for a chat with his ancestor's portrait
"What's urgent in the castle that we need to know about Godric?" asked Harry
"Short version Moody was a polyjucied death eater, Durmstrang needs a new headmaster, Hogwarts needs a new potions teacher and Albus hasn't been seen since he left the castle yesterday!"
"Ok, the to-do list just got even longer! I think we need McGonagall and Pomfrey for the parent talk as well. Godric do you know where they are and how can we get them here?" asked Hermione
"Actually you are in luck as they're both in the infirmary discussing the real Moody who had been locked in his own trunk for months. You can use the fireplace to floo call them and I'll set the access permissions so they can floo to Gryffindor apartment"
"Thanks, Hermione can you round up the adults and ask Winky if she can add another two for breakfast. Is there any way I can share a memory Godric? Hermione and I can share each others but I want to show a specific one to a group."
"What you need is a pensieve Harry, there should one on the shelf with mind magic books. Ask Sirius how to use It.," said Godric
Harry's head was no sooner out the floo when his astonished head of House stumbled out the fireplace closely followed by the Hogwarts healer.
"Mr Potter you have some explaining to …"
Minerva McGonagall had been teaching at Hogwarts for nearly forty years, she'd been Head of House to the Marauders, she was known as the 'Strict Scot', she was blushing like a giddy schoolgirl as the handsome young man wrapped her in a hug, kissed her cheek and said "thank you for caring."
She stood speechless as he repeated the process, with the same result on her friend Poppy when loud laughter reverberated around the room.
"You really are the son of a Marauder, that was absolutely brilliant! Why did we never think to try that?" said Sirius while trying to regain his breath from laughing.
Minerva wasn't about to let a former pupil get away with that, "Perhaps because none of you ever had the charisma to pull it off!" and Sirius was silenced!
The whole room were now chuckling at the Marauder's spectacular crash and burn.
Winky had set breakfast out on the balcony with a warming charm covering the whole area, and as the spectacular view of the Hogwarts landscape was matched by the splendid food, the group enjoyed each others company knowing the answers would come soon.
Everyone recognised it was time and made their way into the common room as Harry produced Godric's pensieve, Sirius removed the silver thread of memory from Harry's forehead and set the pensieve to project the images for the group to watch.
The women were all in tears while Dan and Sirius prepared to commit murder, even Dobby looked fierce, while trying to offer comfort to a now sobbing Winky as they all watched the full scene where Dumbledore the Obliviator reigned supreme in Privet Drive.
Harry sat cuddling with his wife as everyone got a small sample of his childhood.
As the memory finished Harry asked "Madam Pomfrey can you detect if the professor has been obliviated more than once?"
Poppy cast a complicated spell round her friend's head and her expression gave the answer.
Hermione asked, "Sirius, how did Dumbledore know where to find the Potters?" his confusion caused her to continue, "if only the secret keeper can reveal the location surely Peter would have to tell him!"
Sirius looked ready to vomit while Minerva kept repeating "the bastard!" her voice barely above a whisper.
"He wanted Harry beaten and broken so he could manipulate him, and with the help of the Weasleys control him! There's a will? Disregard it! Legal guardian in the way? Azkaban with no trial! Anyone who gets a glimpse of the truth looses their memory. The great Albus Dumbledore, hero of the wizarding world. MY ARSE!" screamed Hermione.
"I happen to be very fond of your lovely arse Mrs Potter" as Harry tried the same calming tactic from the bank.
Unfortunately Minerva wasn't at Gringotts or she would never have asked, "What have the Weasleys got to do with this?"
Harry stood straight up with Hermione cradled in his arms and headed out onto the balcony, kissing her attention away from the question and onto other matters while inside the Grangers and Elves explained why it was an extremely bad idea to mention the red haired ones in Mrs Potter's presence.
It was a slightly dishevelled Hermione who walked back into the room, arm round her husband and resumed sitting on his lap as if it was perfectly normal to be dragged from a room and kissed senseless.
Dan and Emma had huge grins as Harry looked pleased with himself.
Minerva and Poppy were chatting to the portrait as the teen's returned, she glanced at her two students and wondered how they were coping so well, she was barely handling the changing situation and that was on the outskirts of the storm!
Minerva had read that in the centre of a hurricane it was calm but she didn't know what, or who to believe in anymore, she was pulled out of her mental wandering by hearing her name called but it sounded different!
"Headmistress McGonagall" said a smiling Harry for the second time "you looked miles away there. I would offer you a galleon for them but last time I made that offer I ended up married!"
A dig in the ribs from Hermione followed that remark before Minerva finally cottoned on to what Harry called her.
"Oh no Mr Potter we need to contact the board about Albus in fact the ministry would be better although the state it's in at the moment he could probably end up as minister considering the last one supported Voldemort!"
Harry and Hermione just smiled and said as one "he's being dealt with!"
The utter conviction in their voices left no room for error but Sirius wanted blood "how can you be so confident? He'll pull something out those ridiculous sleeves and probably claim all the credit!"
"Ragnok won't let him pull any stunts and he'll be tried under goblin law for crimes against friends to the goblin nation, namely us!" said Hermione continuing, "The Weasley's and Dursleys are also being tried under goblin law!"
Sirius looked as if Christmas had come early.
Harry and Hermione knew they needed McGonagall on board if their plans for Hogwarts were to have any chance of succeeding.
Hogwarts School was the centrepiece of their scheme to change the wizarding world and a Head was required who would insist nothing but the best from students and staff while dealing fairly with all.
Their choices were Minerva McGonagall for Headmistress or leaving the magical world as neither could envision bringing children into the current magical society. It was time to reveal some of their plans!
Harry spoke, his voice trembling with so much emotion, that everyone was held spellbound as this young man bared his soul
"When Hagrid came to my rescue he told me that I would be going to the finest school of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the World! He also told me that I'd be under the greatest Headmaster Hogwarts ever had, Albus Dumbledore! I would really like one of those statements to be true."
"As Lord and Lady Gryffindor we own Hogwarts and there's only one name on our list for the Head of Hogwarts and that name is Minerva McGonagall. Before you answer let me say a few things that we would like to see happen."
"The most important would be that bad teachers will no longer be tolerated within these walls. You must know that the standards in some subjects have been poor to say the least."
Minerva could only nod to Harry in acknowledgement. Ashamed, not only that he was right but because she'd been powerless to intervene.
Harry continued pressing home their points "How can muggle studies possibly be taught when none of their devices will work in the castle? This year the sports program for the entire school involves two students, and one of them was entered illegally! Where are the classes in art, music, and dance? There's a ball in less than two weeks where Hermione and I have to start the proceedings but the school doesn't teach dancing."
He paused to draw breath before continuing, not noticing the golden glow of power that encapsulated both him and his wife as his emotions built
"The battle against the next dark lord starts right here in Hogwarts with the witches and wizards of tomorrow, we have to integrate muggle and magical backgrounds and educate the students in the advantages of both so any more potential Tom Riddle's won't find a society ripe for exploitation by using bigotry to place brother against brother!"
Harry tried not to notice the tears in Sirius's eyes but this had to be said, "I will gladly spend my entire fortune helping to teach acceptance and tolerance in the hope that no child will ever grow up alone again because our society won't stand up to a bigot with a wand!"
No-one wanted to be first to break the silence that followed Harry's speech / declaration / vision of the future.
Trust a portrait to break the ice shouting proudly "there speaks the heir of Gryffindor with the influence of a wife who's the smartest since Rowena Ravenclaw"
Minerva had joked about Harry's charisma earlier but this was no joke!
Here was the leader that the magical world craved, not a Fudge who wouldn't scratch his arse without checking the Daily Prophet to see what hand to use or a 'greater good' Dumbledore with robes designed to take your eyes away from his wand hand as the bastard obliviated you.
Here was the real deal, someone who took a stand for what they believed in with the wealth and magical power to back it up.
She may be the first to fall under the Potters spell but she would wager not the last
"I'll take the job."
Sirius was shocked into doing some deep thinking, he'd only got back into his godsons life about six months ago but the changes in Harry were unbelievable!
He would have to use some of his legendry Sirius Black tact, "When did you get so bloody clever Harry?" he shouted.
The young couple just smiled, they had been expecting this and thanks to Ragnok's book had the answers
"Madam Pomfrey I believe there is a spell that publicans use to determine someone's age for buying alcohol, could you cast it on us please" asked Hermione
Standing up while Poppy cast the spell, shook her wand, re-cast the spell then really looked at Hermione before casting the spell on Harry with predictably the same results.
"Hermione is seventeen year, one month and twelve days old while Harry is sixteen years, eleven months and twenty one days old" said Poppy to a disbelieving audience.
"I think we know how old our daughter is and she just had her fifteenth birthday a few months ago" replied an indignant Emma Granger daring anyone to challenge her facts.
It was Hermione who had that 'I know something you don't know' twinkle in her eyes providing the answers as usual.
"Mum, let me explain. Harry and I now think the bond started that night we rode Buckbeak to freedom. I was holding onto Harry pretty tightly, best guess is that our magical cores recognised their soul mate and the bond started forming. As you all know we've always been very close, except when Bilius interferes!"
This caused Hermione to pause while everyone reflected on the possible implications behind her last statement.
'Do you think he was part of it Hermione?'
'I really don't know but honestly, I stopped counting him a friend months ago! Ginny on the other hand would really hurt as I've come to consider her a sister and best friend! Once I got over the shock in Gringotts…'
'That was more than shock, you nearly destroyed the place'
'OK, trying to put that behind me! Anyway I realized that Ginny could have been manipulated almost as bad as you dear! We really need to know the truth about the Weasleys.'
They were drawn out of this silent conversation by Emma "Hermione? Expiation please!"
"Oh right, well since that night we became inseparable, almost kissed on a few occasions as Harry kept looking for the perfect opportunity to ask me out before finding it in the corridor."
Harry continued seamlessly "the other day I was accused of channelling Hermione because of my new mature attitude but we now suspect it was a considerably older presence than my lovely young wife here, namely Hogwarts herself!"
"You wouldn't be able to shed any light onto the subject Godric?" Hermione asked, her voice sugar sweet but leaving no doubt they expected answers.
Godric was chuckling "Hogwarts told me you two were special and I have to agree with her. I think that should be points to Gryffindor Minerva, as this young couple are perfectly correct and portraits can't award points. The castle recognised your forming bond young Heir and has been helping prepare you for the completion of your soul bond."
"Now I would like to here our little pointy-eared friends explanation" Harry tried to imitate Hermione's voice from earlier but failed miserably due to laughing all the way through it.
Dobby tried to look upset at the slur on his ears but like Harry, and for the same reason failed miserably.
It was left to Winky to provide an answer "when we asked to be bonded, your offer of friendship rather than slavery broke an ancient curse. Elves were forced into slavery centuries ago by a curse that bound an elves magic to the master of the house. If an elf was in disgrace and given clothes the bond was broken so the elf would gradually loose it's magic and soon die! Dobby survived because Harry tricked the Malfoy's into freeing him thus creating a life debt between them and by staying close to Harry he kept his magic. He even managed to pass some to me."
The shy glance at Dobby was full of admiration.
A now blushing Dobby continued the story "when we bonded as friends your magic accelerated the changes in our bodies and we think Hogwarts may have helped as well. This is what elves should be and not the house elf that the curse created"
Emma had listened very carefully and even understood everything that had been said but still had an unanswered question "why do you have to be older?"
This was it, the BIG one, the young married couple held each other tighter as Hermione took a deep breath and gave her mother the answer she positively didn't want to hear
"The physical and emotional maturity is our bonds way of ensuring that we're ready for the final step. Our magic will negate any and all methods of birth control and the soul bond will be complete when I'm pregnant!"
-OoOoO-
Draco Malfoy emerged from the Leaky Cauldron's fireplace and walked through to the back of the pub, tapping the appropriate bricks with his wand he never once looked right or left, Draco was a wizard with a mission!
His father had died last night and while there was a hint of sorrow in his body somewhere, the main emotion coursing through his bloodstream was excitement.
He was now head of house Malfoy and his juvenile mind was reeling with the wonderful possibilities that HIS money and power would supply.
It was still early with only a few shops open as Draco strutted down Diagon Alley but he was unconcerned as his objective came into sight, clearly ready to do business and that was good enough for the self styled Prince of Slytherin.
Draco was wearing his head of house ring that he had removed from Lucius Malfoy's dead finger earlier this morning, his mother was observing wizarding custom and sitting by her dead husband, straight backed while dressed from head to toe in black. She was observing the 24-hour mourning period before the body would be placed in the Malfoy family tomb.
Draco new he was breaking with traditional decorum regarding the deceased but was impatient and knew his mother would refrain from commenting as he removed the ring, she was well aware of where the power now resided.
As Draco passed through the massive doors of Gringotts Wizarding Bank, thoughts of scantily clad young woman at his feet, broom in one hand while his other contained the golden snitch as Potter's broken body lay back there on the pitch.
He swaggered over to the teller "My name is Draco Malfoy and I'm here to claim my inheritance!"
The teller looked at this arrogant young wizard and immediately went into 'being as obstructive as possible' mode, which, while many muggle shop assistants may practice this technique, the goblins were masters of it.
"Do you have any form of identification young master?" asked Skyhook
Draco pompously placed his hand palm down onto Skyhook's desk with his ring clearly visible.
If Draco expected the goblin to get down on his knees and kiss his feet Skyhook's reaction shocked him.
"Mmmm… that ring looks rather large for your finger young master Malfoy!"
Draco was getting angry, yes the ring was large and he had to keep his fingers together or it would slip off but knew the ring would automatically re-size to fit it's owner after the 24-hour mourning period.
He was rapidly loosing his temper but held it in check deciding that now was not the time and definitely not the place.
"Sir, as head of the Malfoy house I respectfully request Gringotts aid with the accession of the Malfoy inheritance. I am aware that the time limit is in breach of etiquette but hope we can overcome the matter of a few hours"
Skyhook was almost smiling now "I'm afraid I'll have to speak to one of my bank's superiors so if you will excuse me I shall not be gone long"
Draco Malfoy was left standing at the counter like a nobody, where was his private room, where were his refreshments while receiving numerous apologies for detaining him?
The bloody goblin just walked away and left him with not even a half arsed 'sorry bout this' someone was going to pay!
Griphook approached the counter "Mr Malfoy, it is my understanding that you wish the accession of the Malfoy inheritance to take place now, is this correct?"
Finally he was getting somewhere, need to get this goblins name so there would be no mistakes next time he came to the bank "yes, immediately!"
"So be it," said Griphook turning to walk away only to be halted by Draco
"Could someone please take me to my vaults?"
Griphook turned back round "you have no vaults, Lucius Malfoy's sworn master was defeated and all his possessions claimed by the victor. All Malfoy money, property and titles now belong to your head of house Lord Gryffindor."
Draco looked at his hand and the ring was gone, he had spent the night mourning his father with some excellent port so had no idea who this Lord Gryffindor was so asked.
Griphook answered "I believe you may know him better as Harry Potter."
Draco lost his head, literally!
At the dreaded name Potter being mentioned he drew his wand and had uttered the first word of the killing curse before his vocal chords were severed.
In a move that left nearly-headless Nick wishing he had a goblin executioner, the nearest guard's sword parted Draco's head from his shoulders and as it rolled across the floor, his headless body collapsed, wand falling out his now dead hand.
The first blood of the second generation had been spilt!
Chapter 6
Ok Emma you can do this! Break it down and deal with it a piece at a time
'The physical and emotional maturity is our bonds way of ensuring that we're ready for the final step'
Well they definitely have been showing maturity beyond their years since they came for us yesterday - it was only yesterday?
One glance at her daughter in that skin-tight armour showed that she had matured beyond her fifteen years and if they hadn't been going after the worst dark lord on the planet she may have had time to mention it.
Could her magic really physically age her body, hell she'd seen her almost destroy a building when she got angry so is it such a leap that her body could speed up ageing over what, months?
Right I can buy into their magic making them older and wiser, the evidence is sitting in front of me! Now for the bit she's just not ready for…
'Our magic will negate any and all methods of birth control and the soul bond will be complete when I'm pregnant!'
Shit! Pregnant Shit! Shit! Pregnant Shit! Shit! Shit! Pregnant, I'm too young to be a Grandmother!
Harry and Hermione sat waiting on the reaction, any reaction, nothing.
Then Emma Granger started giggling; she giggled and giggled before breaking out in hearty laughter.
Dan Granger was at a total loss; he didn't think anyone in the history of parenting ever faced a situation like this.
His fifteen-year-old daughter was now over seventeen thanks to her magical bond with her husband and the first time they make love she was going to be pregnant.
He really should start to write this down so he could keep up or stop staying up late with Sirius, drinking brandy and talking about their favourite teens.
Then he heard his second Granger girl giggling in the space of 24 hours and was suddenly wishing for another brandy.
Poppy Pomfrey, like the rest of the magical users had no trouble believing that anything was possible when Harry and Hermione were involved, no it was the Granger's reaction that they were quietly waiting on.
When Emma looked as if she was going into hysterics Poppy surreptitiously cast a diagnostic spell on the laughing dentist but the result came back fine.
Emma had seen Poppy cast the spell and said, "It's ok folks, and I'm fine. Just need a minute here" as she tried to regain her composure but looking at the two teens was like a cold bucket of water over her head as she realised they must be worried, waiting on her reaction.
Emma went over and sat beside the couple, pulling them into a three person hug, "I'm sorry you two, I was just thinking back to when your father and I told his mother we were having a baby, she hit the roof! After she calmed down we got the reason for her reaction, she was too young to be a grandmother. I had the same thought which started me laughing as you two definitely get the job of telling her she's a great grandmother."
The tension in the room dropped a few notches as Emma continued, "she ruined what should have been a happy moment and I swore not to do that when my turn came, though I feel I must point out that I'm younger than she was then!"
The last part was said only partially in fun.
Dan came over and joined them "you may be wrong there dear. Are you forgetting that our Hermione is Lady Gryffindor, Mum will be all over them and expect invitations to open the church fete"
Sirius knelt down beside them "Harry and Hermione I swear I will be here for your child!"
He had tears running down both cheeks, as had his godson.
Hermione gently wiped his cheeks with her hand "Sirius you broke out of Azkaban for Harry, you were living in a cave as a dog to be near Harry, James and Lily know how much you love him so there's nothing to worry about."
Sirius felt as if a great weight had lifted off his shoulders.
"Though Remus will kick your arse if you don't owl him right away." Chipped in Harry who then decided to go for broke "Remember to tell him he's got a wedding to attend on Saturday as I want the world to see my beautiful wife in this dress I've been hearing about."
Emma's squeal of joy was unfortunately right in Harry's ear!
He recognised the sound as he heard it from the stands every time he caught the snitch, he was just glad Hermione spared his other ear.
"Time out" said Dan with his practical head on "where are you getting married, who's performing the ceremony, magical or muggle and what about your official ages? There must be other things I've forgot but those will do to be going on with."
Emma was gushing now "oh it's just a pity they had to close the old St Mary's it was where your father and I got married! It sits on the bank of the river in Oxford and was beautiful with amazing stained glass windows, it would have been perfect!"
"What happened to it Mrs Granger" asked a keenly interested Harry
"Oh it's still there Harry, it's just in a very bad state and will probably be demolished to build more houses soon."
One glance from Harry to the elves and they disappeared
"And you can call us Dan and Emma or mum and dad if you prefer but could you tell me something, does everyone in your world communicate without speaking?"
Hermione just laughed "I think it's just us mum, is Reverend Stewart still practicing or has he retired yet?"
"He's kind of semi-retired just doing the odd wedding and funeral, why?"
The elves popped back into the room and Dobby nodded to Harry.
It was a smiling Harry who turned to his father in law "right Dan, lets answer those questions. The wedding will take place at the newly refurbished St Mary's church on Saturday at one o'clock with the Reverend Stewart officiating at the muggle ceremony, we're already married in the magical world and Gringotts will supply us with any documentation we require! Not all our guests will be strictly human so some glamour's will be needed."
"They've fixed it already?" asked an astonished Dan Granger
"No, the just confirmed it could be done in time. This will be my wedding present to my beautiful bride"
Hermione couldn't help it!
That was the most romantic thing she'd ever heard, her prince charming was rebuilding a church so she could have her perfect day so ignoring everyone in the room, she grabbed Harry and kissed him, putting every ounce of love into a kiss that lit the entire castle and changed the great hall ceiling to a beautiful sunny day.
The kiss settled any doubts Dan had that his little girl was all grown up; he just really didn't want to see it!
It was Minerva who spoke first, "I really don't want to take points off Gryffindor for inappropriate behaviour" she joked
This broke the kiss, not because of he points but the news they had to impart "sorry Headmistress but my wife and I will both be leaving Hogwarts"
A chorus of "what!" was heard before Hermione continued, "my husband and I are both of age, or will be shortly but that's not the main reason for leaving"
Harry and Hermione both, wandlessly and silently conjured a dozen red roses each and levitated them to Minerva and Poppy, Harry then presented Emma with a Dozen white roses and was about to do the same for Winky when a blushing Dobby beat him to it.
"As you can see we have a great deal of control over our magic, we just tell it what to do, supply the power and it does it, no incantations or wand movements required" he said
Harry waved his hand at Sirius who, much to his shock transformed into Gilderoy Lockhart, bedecked in purple robes.
"Also when one of us reads or learns something the other gets the information as well, we couldn't sit exams as it would be cheating!" said Hermione waving her hand at Sirius who transformed into Sibyll Trelawney, accompanied with a bottle of cooking sherry.
"That's just cruel," laughed Harry while changing Sirius back to normal "those are glamour charms which some off our guests will use to mingle with the muggles"
Minerva was astonished at the way they had casually performed advanced magic, looking at the beautiful gift of roses she could see every petal was perfect, the aroma was perfect and they had even thought to remove the thorns!
She was loath to admit that even with a wand she couldn't have done better, or even as well as her two favourite now ex-students!
Sirius was also amazed at their power "can I borrow Hedwig to contact Moony? I need reinforcements so you two can expect to be pranked!"
"Dobby can elves do glamour charms on themselves so we don't scare the muggles?"
"Harry elves can remain unseen to wizards and muggles"
"That wasn't what I asked Dobby."
A confused Dobby snapped his fingers and Emma said, "He looks enough like Harry to be his brother!"
"Dobby would you do me the honour of standing by my side when I marry this gorgeous young woman on Saturday? Would you be my best man, or best elf even?" asked Harry
"Winky would you do me the honour of being my bridesmaid? There may be one other but we will find out later on today" said Hermione
The two elves were totally shocked, not only were they wanted at the occasion but to be seen standing next to these wonderful young people was beyond a dream, it was unthinkable, it was happening as they both nodded their acceptance not willing to trust their voices.
More hugs all round and the promise of invitations to Minerva and Poppy before Hermione settled everyone down
"We have a very long to-do list here but if everyone helps we may see Christmas!" stated Hermione
Harry just shook his head, "That would be funny if it wasn't true! Ok let's start with Hogwarts, we need ideas and need them today so Headmistress if you would meet with the staff for discussions we could reconvene later today. I think the school will have to close for the Holidays but we're aware that not all students go home and very aware of a certain ball coming up so Dobby if you could check with Gringotts if we own a suitable property that could temporarily house the students and hold the Yule Ball"
Harry was all business now.
"Winky, we're going to be receiving some elves in poor condition, anything you need is yours and I really like those tunics, could we get something like that for all the elves? I want the names of the worst offending wizard's, I'm now the elves head of house so they have to tell you.'
He was looking directly at both elves for the next part
"There's also going to be a great deal of work in the following weeks I want to make sure everyone takes time to eat and sleep – no working themselves to exhaustion. We'll speak to Ragnok today and organize the purchase and restoration of the church"
The adults just couldn't believe here was this young man giving orders like a general and marshalling his troops for the battles ahead.
"Sirius get Remus here as we have a special project that's right up your street! How's your potion ability? Remus is a brilliant DADA teacher and you couldn't be worse than Snape!"
Sirius just had to say something "now just wait a minute pup! I'm the one supposed to be looking after you not the other way around."
His laughter let them all know he wasn't angry, just shocked at his godson as he changed his, no everyone's lives.
A chuckling Harry continued, "Dan and Emma, there's a wedding to arrange for Saturday and I'm afraid to say most of the organization is going to fall on both of you! Just remember that this is the magical world and money is no object so whatever you want is all right with us. Hermione will be free tomorrow and Winky will have a couple of Hogwarts elves assist you with anything today."
Hermione seemed to hold a private conversation with Harry before reluctantly agreeing.
"Well I think my husband has covered most of what's required so if you'll excuse us we have to get changed for our meeting with Ragnok and Madam Bones"
Emma chipped in "could I have a quick word before you go Hermione?"
As everyone went about there tasks Emma took Hermione out to the balcony for a mother – daughter chat.
"Hermione is everything ok? You didn't seem to happy there at the end, don't you want us organising this wedding?"
"Oh no mum it's nothing like that. It's just complicated."
"Hermione I can do complicated, try me!"
"Well Harry has to do something very unpleasant tomorrow and doesn't want me there, he's also confidant I can deal with any trouble although will worry himself sick until we return."
"You get all that from a glance?" said an amazed Emma
"Mum when Harry speaks it comes from both of us and vice versa, we're inside each others heads and he knows every word said out here. I can see how this appears strange to everyone else but to us it's wonderful, we've both happier than we've ever been and know we'll never feel lonely again"
Mother and daughter held each other with tears in their eyes
"We never did have that talk!" joked Emma
"Don't worry mum we're waiting till we're married, we can hold off till Saturday but I won't be spending the night before away from my husband!"
It was ten minutes later the two men found their wives chatting and laughing out on the balcony.
-OoOoO-
Lord and Lady Gryffindor, with elves by their side drew every pair of eyes in the vicinity as they walked up the steps of Gringotts, with their goblin cloaks billowing behind them causing quite a stir as everyone stared at this powerful quartet.
They entered the bank and walked along its now bloodless floor to be met by Griphook and ushered into the same private room as yesterday.
Ragnok entered with the new Acting Minister Bones and two aurors, Tonks and Shacklebolt who they had met yesterday but circumstances negated introductions.
The meeting went very well, plans for tonight were formalised and after two hours was over but Harry asked Madam Bones if she would like ministry participation in some interrogations they were holding.
Vernon and Petunia Dursley were terrified as they were led from their cell into a large room where only the centre was lit.
Two empty chairs sat before a desk, two people dressed in black with hoods throwing their faces into shadow sat behind it.
As the goblin guards marched the muggles into the unoccupied seats Vernon tried his usual tactics "now look here there's been a terrible mistake made somewhere, we're not freaks - were normal!"
"I think we should let the evidence decide that" said one of the hooded figures in a female voice.
The stone basin on the desk started to project images from Privet Drive, Harry had a wealth of memories to choose from but decided on the complete version of the Dumbledore incident.
This showed the beating responsible for the accidental magic and, after Dumbledore left another beating for the healed Harry followed by being locked in his cupboard.
One sneeze and both Dursleys would have lost their heads, the goblin guards were enraged!
To a goblin children are a sacred gift and their society doesn't have a punishment for child abuse as no goblin would even consider it.
To see this child who was now considered a goblin friend treated this way was almost more than they could stand, it was only the knowledge that their leader was sitting in the shadows and had promised justice that kept these two abominations alive!
"I'm curious Mr Dursley; please describe for me how the behaviour we've just witnessed could be classed as normal." The female voice was now radiating barely contained power.
"I'm normal; it's the boy who's the freak! I was trying to beat the unnaturalness out of him. Would have worked too if they hadn't taken him away to that school for freaks."
"I loathe the fact that you're related to me" the emotion in her voice left no doubt about the truth of that statement.
"What is this freakiness, I demand to speak to the person in charge." Screamed Vernon
"That would be me!" said a recognisable male voice as Harry stood and walked towards them while pulling back his hood
"YOU, listen here boy I demand that…" Vernon's outburst was stopped by a goblin blade pressing none too gently into his throat.
Hermione's anger was threatening to get away from her again as she stormed towards the Dursleys
"The goblins have already beheaded one person today, another one or two won't really matter. You see Vernon and Petunia in this place YOU'RE THE FREAKS!"
Harry put his arm round, pulling her into an embrace as she fought down her temper
Petunia asked quietly "Harry who's the girl and why are we here? What about Dudley?"
"This is my wife Lady Hermione Jane Potter Gryffindor and you both are here charged with child abuse and stealing. Dudley will go into the muggle child care services and I will continue paying his school fees as well as any further education costs if required. I would like to ask what happened to the one hundred and twenty thousand pounds you received for my care?"
A look to the guard removed the blade from Vernon's neck
"You can't be married we didn't give you our permission, I…" the blade was returned
"Please listen carefully as I explain the seriousness of the situation. If Harry snaps his fingers you are dead! You have no power here, no authority, nothing. You are being charged with child abuse and misuse of funds as Harry received no care. The next sentence to leave your lips may be the last so I would suggest you choose wisely," said Hermione
The blade hardly left Vernon's throat when he started to shout, what he was shouting will remain one of life's mysteries as Hermione cast a silencing charm. They had heard enough and the Dursleys were led away.
Albus was wondering how he was going to get out of this situation, he never considered for a second that he wouldn't get out, just didn't quite know how at this precise moment in time!
He was lying on a stone bench in a tiny cell with no decoration or even a window! His only concession to comfort was a bucket in the corner. Comfort, now there's a joke!
He had woken with a large bump on his head and wearing still wet robes, didn't these people know what age he was? The magic inhibiting bracelets on his wrists didn't help and of course no wand.
He had eventually dried out, thinking his hair and beard must look a sight when four heavily armed goblins opened the door and took him into what could best be described as an interview room.
There were three people sitting behind the desk but it was the one without the cloak who worried Albus, Ragnok!
Ragnok spoke "Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore you are charged with crimes against a friend of the goblin nation. Evidence shall be shown and you will be given an opportunity to answer the charges at the end of the proceedings."
The compelling evidence was presented showing the will being ignored with Harry being placed in an abusive environment, the financial misdealing, the marriage contract and the pensieve display of his knowledge of Harry's treatment, the image of him binding Harry's power and obliviating everyone.
Albus recognised he was in trouble but confident in his ability to bullshit his way out, he'd been doing it for years after all!
"Director Ragnok, honoured judges please be aware that I know how bad this looks but every action taken by myself was for the greater good of the whole wizarding world. Lord Voldemort is not dead and when he returns..."
"Excuse me but your information is wrong, Lord Voldemort is dead!" said Ragnok
Albus used his best 'professor talking to stupid child' voice "Ah but you see that Halloween night when baby Harry reflected the curse back Voldemort did not die!"
"Your information is correct, just not current! Last night Lord and Lady Gryffindor killed Tom Riddle, he is morally, ethically, spiritually, physically, positively, absolutely, undeniably and reliably most sincerely dead."
With Ragnok's words the cold hand of fear gripped his innards but now was not the time for panic
"Are you aware he made horcruxes, he cannot die as long as they exist"
"All the horcruxes have been destroyed and every marked death eater is dead." Ragnok rebuffed
Albus was desperate now
"Harry Potter has a horcrux in his head, 'neither can live while the other survives' he must die so I can kill Voldemort!"
Ragnok chuckled "I'm afraid the Lady Gryffindor might object to that idea and trust me when I say this is one lady you don't wish to anger."
Harry and Hermione removed their hoods and Albus thought he had an opening
"Harry my boy" he said emitting full grandfather vibes that were cut short as Hermione blasted him fully across the room
They took a break before the Weasley's as this was going to be the most painful.
The first two hearings they suspected were going to be quite straightforward and that proved to be the case.
Ragnok informed them that they had questioned Bill, Charlie and Percy Weasley, with their permission using Veritaserum, and none had any idea of acts against Harry or marriage contracts.
"They have asked to be present at the interview and I think we should allow it; they are understandably sceptical that this could be true; it really is a case of 'seeing is believing' with their parents."
This news pleased the couple giving them hope for the rest of the family being unawares.
They had decided to interview the Weasley's separately as Arthur was led into the room, saw the three people at the table but unaware of the minister and three of his son's presence.
He willingly took Veritaserum and the questions began with name, address, occupation before the real questions started:
Q "Did you sign a marriage contract between your daughter and Harry Potter?"
A "yes"
Q "did you know Dumbledore had no legal right to offer that contract?"
A "yes"
Q "why did you sign it"
A "Albus said it was a betrothal, and the kids could make their own mind up when Harry was sixteen, he wanted him with a light family"
Q "did you knowingly take money from the Potter account to pay Hogwarts fees for your children?"
A "yes, Albus said as they were betrothed we could use money for necessities, I wasn't sure this was strictly legal but at one point I had five children at Hogwarts at the same time. How do you choose which of your children you can afford to educate?"
Q "were any of your children aware of the marriage contract or fees being paid by Harry?"
A "no, I had hoped for Harry and Ginny as he's such a fine young man but a blind person could see his heart was already captured"
Q "did you know that Harry's magical core had been bound?"
A "absolutely not! Who would do such a thing?"
The questions finished there and Arthur was led away with Harry and Hermione felling relieved, he'd been duped by Dumbledore and taken money for his children's education.
Yes he broke the law but more importantly not Hermione and Harry's hearts!
Now they waited for Molly.
Molly entered and the difference couldn't have been more marked.
She had to be practically dragged into the chair by the goblin guards and then force-fed Veritaserum as she refused to take it voluntary.
The standard questions were asked then down to business
Q "Did you sign a marriage contract between your daughter and Harry Potter?"
A "yes"
Q "did you know Dumbledore had no legal right to offer that contract?"
A "yes"
Q "why did you sign it"
A "Albus said it would give us access to the Potter Vaults"
Q "did you knowingly take money from the Potter account to pay Hogwarts fees for your children?"
A "yes, of course! I wanted more but Arthur said a new kitchen wasn't a necessity! I tried to convince him for years!"
Q "were any of your children aware of the marriage contract or fees being paid by Harry?"
A "Ron knew we had to get Harry and Ginny together, his job was to keep Harry away from the mudblood bitch!"
Q "did you do anything else to force the match of Harry and your daughter"
A "Ginny was programmed to love Harry since she was little and I had the love potion all ready when that bloody tournament interrupted"
Q "did you know that Harry's magical core had been bound?"
A "yes, Albus said he had to die before Voldemort could be killed. I had to make sure Ginny was pregnant before Harry reached seventeen. I planned some lust potions for the summer holidays"
Q "why was it important Ginny was pregnant?"
A "to get the Potter fortune! If the baby was born before he died the stupid boy would make sure it was the heir"
"Get the bitch out of here while she's still alive!" screamed Hermione.
Fortunately the guards had been present yesterday and seen Hermione when her temper got away from her, grabbing Molly they ran out the door dragging her behind them.
When the lights came on fully Hermione was sobbing on Harry's lap, Bill and Charlie looked green while Percy was throwing-up in the corner.
Ragnok and Amelia were conferring while the two Aurors looked on, sickened by what they had seen today.
Bill and Charlie approached the couple but Harry said; "not now guys, we need to talk but give us a moment. Finding out your so-called best friend is a deceiving bastard and the woman, who was the nearest thing I had to a mother was just looking for a baby maker to get rich quick takes a bit of getting used to."
After everyone had cooled down a bit Harry and Hermione had lunch with Ragnok and the minister who asked what punishments were to be handed out.
The couple explained what they had in mind.
Winky and Dobby were looking over Potter properties with Griphook and working out where Hogwarts students could be temporarily housed when the deepest laughter they had ever heard reverberated through the entire building.