Chapter 20
Harry woke to find himself in the most beautiful room he had ever seen, or even imagined. The master suite on their tropical island was on the first floor and had two walls made almost entirely of glass. This had the effect of bringing the outside world into the room.
When the outside world consisted of cloudless blue sky, waves breaking gently onto a white sandy beach with the whole scene being framed by palm trees, well it beats the hell out of the spider infested cupboard that was his home for ten years.
He glanced at the young woman lying beside him and realised that without her being here, he might as well be back in the old cupboard. She was his first thought in the morning, last thought at night, his anchor, his life, his wife.
The amount of love pouring over the bond awakened Hermione, seeing her husband staring at her with the beginnings of tears in his eyes, she pulled him down into a morning kiss.
This had happened a few times to each of them since they bonded. They shared each other's memories and had no secrets anymore but occasionally one of them would get caught up in thinking how much their lives had changed for the better, the positive emotions pouring through their body was overwhelming.
Although very different, both had very lonely childhoods and their bond completed them in a way that was beyond their wildest dreams.
They discovered the only 'cure' was to cling to each other and let the surge wash over both their bodies. This also had the 'side effect' of them needing to make love with each other until sated.
-oOoOo-
Neville Longbottom was holding his girlfriends hand, even that thought brought a smile to his face or at least it would have except for the fact that he couldn't stop grinning from last night.
Neville had walked to the Yule Ball with the most beautiful girl in the school on his arm, he had no idea what the ballroom looked like or who else was there, as soon as the music started, the rest of the evening was spent looking into those wonderful eyes as the couple glided around the dance floor.
Dan and Emma's lessons paid dividends as, not only did they know how to dance, they had learned together and knew each others moves so well it clearly showed.
They had stopped to collect some punch before going for a stroll on the grounds though appeared to acquire an entourage in the process. Redheads seemed to be round every corner but it was the sight of a big, black dog that finally got Ginny angry, threatening the animal with neutering if she saw it again, it gave a yelp / whimper before bounding away.
The twins approached and sincerely apologised to their sister for their behaviour earlier, they also congratulated Neville on a superb bit of wand work. Serious twins scared the hell out of Neville but standing with Ginny's arm around him, he could face anything.
After the dance they had portkeyed back to Longbottom Manor with gran who allowed them some kissing time before shepherding them into separate bedrooms.
Augusta Longbottom was secretly delighted in the change this young woman had brought about with her grandson.
She was 'old school' enough to see the benefits of an alliance by marriage with the house of Potter but not so set in her ways to push Neville into something he didn't want. From the signals the couple were transmitting, no pushing was going to be required.
They were in the foyer of the manor saying goodbye to gran before Neville changed his grip to Ginny's wrist, they picked up their bags and with a muttered "blue lagoon" headed in search of warmer climes.
-oOoOo-
They arrived into the entrance hall of the 'house' and couldn't believe their eyes; they were directly below the master bedroom with matching glass walls and view.
Both just stood there staring as elves took their bags while informing them that Harry and Hermione were on the beach.
They walked, hand in hand towards the sand. Neville was astonished at all the flora that surrounded the path while Ginny couldn't help but look back at the beautiful house. It appeared to be in a flattened 'V' shape, giving all the bedrooms on both sides views of the beach.
Their eyes soon became focused on the same scene; Harry was lying on some sort of bed, wearing the tiniest pair of swimming trunks imaginable while Hermione, dressed in less than Ginny wore for underwear, was rubbing lotion onto his back.
Neville was a pureblood that had led a very sheltered life, seeing Ginny in shorts and tee shirt almost made him pass out, so Hermione in a bikini was a bit more than he was ready for. When Ginny leaned over and whispered in his ear, "that looks like fun and I have got to get me whatever mum is wearing!" Neville was catatonic.
She led him over to her adopted parents, reminding him to put one foot in front of the other and to breath occasionally.
Hermione looked over and waved as Ginny led Neville to one of the sun loungers and put a cold bottle of butterbeer into his hand, she tried very hard not to laugh when Ginny had to lift his hand to his mouth so the overheating boy could drink from the bottle and hopefully cool down.
She knew it was partly their fault but the bikini she was wearing was one of her more 'conservative' ones. Harry and her had went overboard with their Christmas gifts this year but the joy on her husbands face as he thought of the perfect gift meant she couldn't deny him anything he wanted to buy.
The problem had arose when they tried to buy gifts for each other, they couldn't keep secrets and both honestly felt they had everything that could ever be wished for.
Their solution was simple; buy small, fun gifts for each other so their swimwear was bought as part of their Christmas to each other. Hermione was definitely enjoying having Harry in his green Speedo's while he certainly was appreciative of her wearing one of the bikini's he bought, though some of them would never be worn outside of their bedroom.
Neville slowly calmed down while Ginny gushed about how much they had enjoyed the Yule Ball and that a lot of people were disappointed they never appeared. Ginny secretly thought that it was a good idea that they never attended, she knew one wrong word or, Merlin forbid, an inappropriate action towards Hermione or Harry would have seen blood spilt.
People needed more time to adjust to the fact they were not only married but adults, there would probably always be witches and wizards out there who thought her parents were meant for them and, with one look their wish would be fulfilled.
Ginny knew better than anyone that nothing would come between these two and only pain awaited for anyone who tried. There were some seventh years at the ball, dressed for success but finding the objects of their desires couldn't even be bothered turning up. It was a severe blow to some over inflated egos and Ginny had loved it.
Neville had already decided this was his favourite place in the whole world and it had nothing to do with his imagination placing Ginny in whatever Hermione was wearing. After being here less than an hour he could already feel the tranquillity seep into his bones as the sun, sea and sand worked their magic on the boy who, until today thought Diagon Alley was exotic. For the first time in his life Neville felt at peace with himself.
After a while they headed back to the house, Harry explained that they would be having daily lunch meetings with Narcissa and Neville was welcome as long as he kept anything he heard secret. Ginny was already a member of Stag Industries and he didn't want Neville to feel left out.
As they walked through the house to the inside of the 'V', it was Neville's turn to remind Ginny to breath. For the young girl brought up in poverty at the Burrow the site before her was just breathtaking.
A freeform pool, complete with waterfall and large slide, was set into the most beautiful gardens ever seen. She would later discover that each bedroom had a pool or a sea view, though she could never quite decide which one she liked best.
They were just about to sit down at a table on the terrace when Narcissa portkeyed into the lobby.
She let out a low whistle before stating, "love the new office!" drawing laughter from everyone. They had a most enjoyable lunch before getting down to business.
Narcissa had received the slightest of nods when her eyes had questioned Neville's presence at the briefing, so knew it was safe to continue.
"OK, the expected backlash to Rose discarding her pureblood status just didn't materialise, for a very good reason. It's hard to organise a backlash when you can't find clean underwear, fresh robes or even food and drink."
Narcissa smiled at the blank expressions she was receiving from her audience.
"Quite simply, freeing the elves has had the most devastating effect on Britain's pureblood society. Most of them are used to being waited on hand and foot with no idea how to do the most basic of tasks. The new status symbol in magical Britain is not how much gold you have in your vault, but if your elves decided to stay with a contract. Dobby and Winky should be able to name their price for hiring elves. Where are they?"
Hermione just smiled and said, "honeymoon."
Narcissa couldn't help chuckling, "well they better enjoy their break while they can, and Gringotts has been inundated with requests for 'elvin assistance'. On a more serious note, some of the purebloods have lawyers poring over those contracts and laws with a fine toothcomb. Are you both sure they'll hold up?"
Hermione was giving her scary smile, "the goblins wrote those contracts for us, I would expect them to stand up to any level of scrutiny."
"Can we get the Prophet to list the new laws, especially on the foreigners clause?" asked Harry.
"What's the foreigners clause?" asked Ginny
"Any foreigner who owns elves has until 5am on New Years day to get them out the country, after that every elf in the country falls under the British legislation. I wonder how many of the purebloods have discovered that any elves they owned abroad are also free?" stated Narcissa.
An astonished Neville asked, "You mean their holiday homes are elf-less as well?"
Harry laughed, "We tied the law into their citizenship, a British citizen may not own elves. The law also decrees that no foreign national can bring elves into the country as slaves without them being set free, without the compensation enjoyed by the one-off payment received yesterday."
"The 5am was set to allow for New Year parties, after that every elf in Britain will be free. This has cost millions but, compared to the freedom of the elves, we think we got a bargain," said Hermione.
Neville and Ginny were finally realising the scale of the operation, this action would have repercussions on the scale of ridding the world of Riddle and his Death Eaters.
"Can I make a suggestion?" asked Narcissa. "Can we get the prophet to do an article on the new Hogwarts, especially the parents visitor centre? The thought of three days where your needs are looked after by elves will have the pureblood parents clamouring to get a place."
"Brilliant!" exclaimed Hermione, "we should also get Professor Zabini to make sure household charms, and magical appliances and cooking are part of her course."
This moved the meeting on to Hogwarts and the renovations; everyone could see the excitement in the faces of both Hogwarts pupils.
It was agreed that, as well as their daily briefing, the board of Stag Industries would meet on New Years Eve with the option of staying for a party and a few days if they wished. They were just about to break for the day when Narcissa brought up one final item.
"The Weasley twins have come up with an interesting idea, it's a magical device that will wash, dry and iron clothes. The only problem is that they designed it to randomly spell cloths to change when being worn, a prank they called it," said Narcissa.
Harry was laughing but Hermione could see the potential, "tell them to make it without the prank, then sell that part to the kids as an add-on. Imagine going to work and your robes transfiguring into swimwear?"
Harry was really laughing now but Ginny got it immediately, "that means we sell them two products, the working model then the prank, pure genius!"
After Narcissa left, Harry and Hermione took the students to a part of the garden with the intention of discovering how Neville changed tormentors into turkeys.
Ginny noticed Hedwig perched happily on a tree while Crookshanks was sprawled out on some lush vegetation, both looked exceedingly pleased with there new living arrangements and both were definitely enjoying the dramatic change from the Scottish winter weather.
Harry and Hermione explained how they used their magic and invited Neville to give it a try. Neville's problem had never been lack of power, just lack of belief. With Ginny in his life, his confidence had really taken a boost. So, with a smile of encouragement from his girlfriend, Neville gave it his best try and, much to his amazement succeeded first time.
Ginny was ecstatic, especially when she found out that she had the same ability.
Hermione then proceeded to give them the possible bad news, they didn't know if this would be permanent. They decided to train every day and hope their newfound abilities got stronger instead of weaker. They practiced until it was time to change for dinner.
The dining room was furnished much like the rest of the house, simple but elegant. There was hardly a picture or decorative feature in the house as nothing could compete with the beauty from outside.
They were joined at dinner by a very content Dobby and Winky as the six had a lovely evening, enjoying the food and the company while the sun sank into the ocean.
-oOoOo-
Dan Granger lay in bed with his sleeping wife and wondered if life could get any better. He was going to be a father and a grandfather who, after selling their practice, would be taking early retirement. The thought of spending his life on a tropical island with his family and the four children on the way made him the happiest man alive.
They had spent the day saying goodbye to some friends and acquaintances at the golf club while handing out invitations to their closest friends. Dan knew he shouldn't take pleasure from some of the more 'stuck up' members who suddenly wanted to buy them drinks, invite them to social gatherings (posh party) or anything else they could think of to get an invitation. He had watched them squirm all day and he had loved it.
He also loved the potion the elves had made for Emma; it took away the worst of her mood swings and had no side effects. He would bring this up at the next meeting; Dan would have emptied his bankbook for this product when Emma was pregnant with Hermione.
The thought that he would have a son who would grow up with three children his own age brought tears to his eyes. They knew Hermione was a lonely child and had almost cried with relief when her first letter sent from Hogwarts mentioned, not just professors but also another student, a boy called Harry Potter.
Dan eventually fell asleep thinking how amazing it was that one person could change his family's lives so much.
-oOoOo-
Sirius was leaving Hogwarts a day early after having worked harder than at any other time in his life to get the potions lab ready for the students return. His excuse was he wanted to run his courses past the smartest witch he knew but, if he was being honest with himself, he just missed the Potters.
He portkeyed into the entrance hall and his jaw almost hit the floor, yes the scenery was sensational but what really caught his attention was the beautiful young couple who were slowly making their way back from the beach. Harry and Hermione were walking with their arms around each other's waist, looking happy enough to out-shine the sun.
Sirius felt his mind drift to his best friend and his wife, 'Prongs and Lily, you would be so proud of him, and his wife is the best witch I've ever met! What the hell is it with you Potter men and these beautiful, brilliant witches?'
He was still standing there reminiscing when he suddenly found himself under attack from a couple of scantily clad youths.
"Hermione, we have to stop this. Your husband might find out!" cried Sirius.
"I've heard he's the right jealous type to," answered Harry.
Everyone was laughing until Sirius finally noticed what she was wearing while hugging him.
"Merlin Hermione, you've just made an old man very happy or a happy man very old. At this moment in time I'm not actually sure which it is."
A bikini clad Hermione laughed, took his hand before declaring, "ok granddad, let's get you some lunch."
They had just walked through to the garden when Narcissa joined them.
-oOoOo-
Hermione had watched as the last few days had seen the year's fall of Sirius. She and Ginny were currently lying sunbathing while the three males fought a battle in the surf that would decide the fate of the universe; she used to call it 'piggy in the middle'.
Sirius appeared to find himself in the middle a lot, as the quaffle seemed to always be just out of his reach. What he didn't know was that Neville was becoming proficient at wandless magic, as it looked like their power sharing had enhanced both him and Ginny permanently.
Sirius let out a roar when, just as they were about to go for lunch, Harry and Neville demonstrated their wandless abilities. The Marauder had been caught in the best possible type of prank, the kind where you don't even know it's happening.
After all those years of seeing nothing but the inside of a cell, they had to use strong sun screening charms to make sure his skin did not burn. Hermione and Harry preferred the non-magical method; rubbing lotion onto your partner's body was a lot more fun than a charm.
They say that person's eyes are the windows to their soul, when Hermione looked into his eyes she could see the pain and torture that his life had been. His family had treated him about as well as the Dursleys cared for her Harry, add to that his years in Azkaban for a crime he would never commit and Sirius was a man grasping at this second chance of life.
Her experience with Harry had taught her what Sirius was feeling, that at any moment this happiness was all going to be snatched away from him because he didn't deserve it.
This past few days spent with his new family had shown him that it was real, on the beach all day, swapping stories at night and now his eyes were starting to lose that haunted look. Hermione was sure she had seen something else there when Rose Parkinson had arrived with Narcissa to carry out an interview for the Prophet. She was so sure that Rose was invited, with her daughters to spend New Year at the island.
She watched as Sirius almost howled with delight when Rose accepted, Harry knew exactly what was going on and nearly choked trying to suppress his laughter at the old dogs reaction, if he was in his Padfoot form his tail would be whirling like a propeller.
When her mum, dad and gran arrived they headed down towards the beach and along to the small quay where the 'First Kiss' was moored. Her mother had 'oh-ed' and 'ah-ed' with each new sight but when she saw her yacht she was rendered speechless, for a Granger woman that was quite an achievement.
There was a ribbon to be cut before anyone was allowed on board, after the inspection everyone gathered on the main deck where glasses of champagne awaited and Amanda was given the honour, "I name this ship the First Kiss, may God bless her and all who sail in her." Everyone agreed that drinking the champagne was a much better option than smashing the bottle off the side of the yacht.
They had lunch on the First Kiss before heading back for the meeting; Remus and Griphook were waiting as they walked towards the house along with Narcissa and the Parkinson's.
Rose and Amanda were invited to the meeting, as guests while Narcissa would be taking the minutes. Neville offered to show Pansy and Violet the beach with both quickly accepting, Ginny just smiled as her boyfriend headed towards the sand accompanied by both girls, causing a raised eyebrow from her adoptive mother.
Ginny and Neville had become very close, it was as if their relationship had moved to the next level without the usual increase in sexual intimacy associated with that statement. As they felt their magic growing so it appeared they were forming a bond and both couldn't be happier about it.
The couple now knew they were going to be together for the rest of their lives and in some ways this had removed the teenage need for assurance from their other half. Both wondered if they had been passed some of her parent's maturity with the magic but the upshot was that neither felt compelled to rush into parts of the relationship until they were ready. They would get there in the end and enjoy it more for waiting though she saw no need to inform her parents of this, it was her duty to tease them after all.
The meeting had barely begun when an elf appeared and handed Dobby a note.
"It appears two elves have gone 'missing' while working at a New Year party. Dylan and Freda are a young couple that were hoping to life bond shortly. They are very conscientious workers and would not have left their post, especially without reporting if some incident caused them to leave," Dobby informed the meeting.
"Any ideas why?" Harry asked the room.
Winky was adamant, "I can say with one hundred percent certainty that they would not have left willingly".
"So we are looking at an abduction, I assume we are pulling out all the stops to look for them?" asked Harry as Dobby nodded in reply.
"How could they be abducted and why?" asked a concerned Ginny.
"We have feared wizard's finding the ancient curse that bound us in the first place. The fact that they are a couple worries me greatly, there are actions I would rather die than commit but if someone was holding Winky's life, then I couldn't say what I would do". Dobby had his head bowed as he finished speaking but Winky lifted his chin and placed a chaste kiss on his lips.
Hermione took charge, "OK, we have a possible 'how' but we need some ideas of the why if we are going to act".
A scroll that appeared in front of Griphook answered the why, it only contained four words but the impact would be felt throughout Britain and beyond.
Albus Dumbledore had escaped.
Chapter 21
Albus sat in his cell as the clock struck midnight and thought 'Happy New Year'.
He knew if he didn't get out of here soon all hope would be lost, the weasel, giraffe and walrus were all starting to behave strangely and it could only be a matter of time before someone investigated.
What he needed was one of his famous plans, shit, what he needed was a wand!
Just as he was going to sink even further into his pity party, an elf wearing a robe appeared in his cell, grabbed his arm and they were gone.
Albus found himself in a darkened room where the only light was the stunner that flew past him and hit the elf. He was in shock as he then found himself engulfed in a hug, but the familiar aroma told him everything he needed to know.
Albus would take the aroma of goats over the stink of dragon shit any day.
-oOoOo-
Harry and Hermione arrived outside Gringotts, accompanied by Dobby and Winky, with Griphook leading the way through the massive doors.
The time and temperature difference made it's presence felt immediately upon arrival, when they had left, the sun was just beginning to set but it was still warm enough for shorts and tee shirt. In London it was well after midnight and below freezing to boot.
It was an enraged Ragnok that met them in the lobby, leading the group straight to his office. After they were all seated he decided to fill them in with the information they had available.
"As best we can deduce, something portkeyed into his cell just after midnight and portkeyed out with him as a passenger." Griphook looked towards his guests, "we suspect it was a Potter elf."
Harry brought Ragnok up to speed, "we just received a report that two elves were abducted from a party. Aurors are interviewing the organisers and guests as we speak. Our suspicion is that someone has discovered the ancient curse that bound the elves in the first place. The missing elves are also a couple, allowing one to be held hostage to the other's good behaviour."
Hermione continued, "Dobby was bound to the Malfoy's but still managed to contact Harry, trying to warn him of the Basilisk plot at Hogwarts."
"I know these two elves, they will fight this with everything that they have!" declared Winky.
"What I don't understand is how they were able to portkey in?" said Dobby, "Winky and I are probably powerful enough to do it, but would pull down every ward in the bank. Harry and Hermione could literally pull down the bank, but no one else could come close."
The two goblins looked shocked, they had seen Hermione's power and knew Harry would be at least the same, but the thought of the two elves being so powerful had never occurred to them.
"Have we any idea how it was done?" asked Hermione.
"The only thing we can think of is the 'Pendant of Kahan,' while we understand this would work, its been 'lost' for almost fifty years." Answered Ragnok.
Before anyone could ask, Griphook gave an explanation, "during the building and fitting of Hogwarts manager Kahan spent a lot of time travelling between Gringotts and the school. Rowena Ravenclaw made him a pendant that would cut through any wards. The pendant allowed him to travel from his office straight into the main hall at Hogwarts."
Ragnok continued the story, "as a gift from Rowena to a goblin, you can imagine that we were very careful with the item. Unfortunately, just after defeating his dark lord, Dumbledore showed an interest in it. He seemed to think we should all bow down and give him anything he wanted. Not long after this the pendant 'disappeared,' much like your two elves, and though he was, and still is our prime suspect, we had no proof. It was hard enough convincing the right people that he was rotten this time, but just after he defeated Grindelwald? Let's just say a goblin calling him a thief would not have went down to well. "
"Does that give him access to the vaults?" Hermione enquired.
"Oh I wish he would try," grinned Griphook, "every vault contains a ward that would kill any living thing entering via means other than the door. We never considered using a lethal ward on a cell as no one has ever escaped before."
"We had a major influx of elves from the people we would consider most likely to be involved, but there has been no information regarding a kidnapping at all." Offered Winky.
"Until we find out how these elves were captured I don't want any others involved in the search." Dobby and Winky were ready to protest Harry's statement but he was adamant, "they could be walking right into a trap. I know this is hard but we don't want to give whoever is involved more weapons or hostages."
Hermione tried to soften the blow, "Stag Industries have a lot of resources that will be brought to bear on this, the Ministry is also searching and our goblin friends aren't about to take this lying down either. We are not abandoning Dylan and Freda, as far as we're concerned, rescuing them is more important than caching that lying old coot."
"I think we need to try and anticipate their next move. Abduction has been used very effectively so the questions we need to ask are, whom will they go after next? And why?" asked Griphook
Ragnok gave his thoughts, "he's obsessed with controlling Harry, and the key to that is sitting right next to him."
The temperature in the room dropped until it felt colder that outside, but when Harry spoke it definitely became sub-zero. "If he touches my wife and babies he will die less than a minute later. His death will be as painful as I can make it. No one touches my family!"
"But what if she is abducted?" asked Ragnok
Harry gave a smile that was even colder; "Dobby, Winky and I could find her within seconds, regardless of location, wards or whether she was conscious. We are bonded couples but share a bond of friendship between us that would allow the other three to find the one taken. Merlin help the people responsible when we did!"
Dobby was nodding in agreement, "I think they would go for easier targets, and that means Ginny or the Granger's."
Harry reached over to take Hermione's hand, "I'm sorry love but I think Dobby may be right."
Hermione squeezed his hand before replying, "I'm afraid to say it but so do I, but we have a couple of resources that should give us the edge. We have Rowena's journal and access to Godric through his portrait."
This brought a look of disbelief from the goblins.
"We need to research the pendant and, hopefully, the curse that enslaves elves. If we can produce portkeys to match the pendant or a counter curse we would really swing this in our direction." Hermione's jaw was set and determination burned in her eyes.
"Is that possible?" asked a stunned Griphook.
"The one thing I've learned is that when my wife sets her mind to something, nothing is imposable."
-oOoOo-
The four figures appeared in the lobby and could hear laughter coming from the room ahead. Griphook had chosen to remain in London and follow the investigation from that end. They walked into the room where Sirius was holding court.
Hermione couldn't believe the change in the man who was living in a cave, as a dog, less than a month ago. His whole appearance now seemed to radiate health. But it was the mischievous sparkle replacing that haunted look from his eyes that was making the biggest difference. The location and company had done Sirius the world of good.
Narcissa and Remus stood together while watching the by-play with their two friends, and both were secretly delighted at what was in front of them.
Remus was shocked at the change in his oldest friend, while he had spoken to him only five days ago, this Sirius seemed rejuvenated. Remus already knew where he wanted to spend his next holiday.
Narcissa watched as one of her oldest friends was basking in the attention being shown her by Sirius. She had seen Rose deflate men's egos with a few well chosen words so understood that she had an attraction for him, otherwise Sirius would be sulking in a corner by this time.
She could also see Pansy and Violet were enjoying themselves, sitting with Ginny and Neville, while laughing as Sirius told more outlandish stories as the night progressed. For the two young Parkinson's, being allowed in the company was novel, being included was unbelievable.
The mood dipped as the news of the escape was confirmed by the returning group, but Sirius was having none of it. This was a New Year for everyone in more sense than one, and he was determined that they were going to enjoy it. The name of Dumbledore had blighted too many lives here in this room, and he would be dammed if it would be allowed to affect his life anymore.
By the time midnight came around on the island, the occupants of the house were all in fine fettle with lots of Happy New Year kisses being exchanged.
Between them, Harry and Hermione had managed to speak to all the Grangers and Ginny concerning the threat, and the importance of always wearing their protection charms and portkeys.
It was about 2am before the party broke up and headed to their rooms, as had become their custom, Neville escorted Ginny to her room, kissed her while the door remained open then headed happily to his own room.
By some strange coincidence, his was about four rooms along but since two of those intervening rooms held the Potters and Sirius, this was all the discouragement Neville needed from nighttime roaming.
He had brushed his teeth, changed into his pyjamas and was just climbing into bed when he suddenly screamed "Ginny!" at the top of his voice. Neville bolted out the door and raced along the corridor, Harry and Hermione were right behind him, while Dobby and Winky beat everyone there. They were too late, Neville had known they would be too late, Ginny was gone
-oOoOo-
Ginny was getting into bed with a smile on her face, she seemed to be smiling a lot recently, when an elf appeared beside her and she was taken.
They arrived in what appeared to be a crofter's cottage and her former headmaster immediately stunned the elf.
"Good morning Miss Weasley, excuse me a minute while I place Dylan here along with Freda, I'm not sure what's been happening but these little buggers seem so determined to return to Harry. These two are actually worse than that little freak Dobby. We're having to threaten to kill the other one, and it still takes the imperius curse to get them to follow orders."
Ginny was standing there in her nightgown; her wand was lying on her nightstand. She was still wearing her charmed necklace and portkey so wasn't panicking yet. If he made a move to curse her, she was out of there.
"Now I bet your wondering why I brought you here? Well don't worry; you won't be harmed in the slightest. In fact, when my plan succeeds you will be one happy young lady."
Ginny just gave him an enquiring look.
"Yes my dear girl, you are going to carry the next Potter heir."
Ginny couldn't help it, she burst out laughing.
Albus had prepared arguments for a few reactions but laughter had not featured in any of them. What was this girl playing at?
"Is there something you would like to share with me Miss Weasley?" he asked.
Ginny was literally wiping tears of laughter from her eyes as she considered her response. "Well you see old man, my father will kill you before he would let that happen…" she was about to add only if her mum didn't get to him first when he held his hand up for silence.
"That is quite impossible, and I am not referring to Arthur trying to defeat me in a duel. You see Miss Weasley the reason that's impossible is Arthur Weasley is not your father, I am!"
Ginny didn't know whether to laugh, cry or kick the clearly delusional old fool in the nuts. The more she thought about it, the better the third option looked.
"I can see you don't believe me so let's have a little history lesson. A prophecy was made determining one of two boys could defeat the Dark Lord, Potter or Longbottom. So, planning ahead as always, I decided the best way to control a boy was with a girl, you!"
'Yes, a kick in the nuts was well overdue,' thought Ginny
"Your mother had six children under the age of ten and only your father's meagre salary to support them. When I offered her the well-paid role of a part time researcher, she jumped at the chance."
The little redhead was now feeling seriously disturbed.
"Every weekend she would come to Hogwarts, and every weekend she would be fed potions, an imperius here, followed by a few memory charms there, and then anything was possible. You will have his child, my grandchild, then, between the Potter fortune and my guidance, they will rule the world."
He was insane; Ginny knew he was insane, but the image of his little bony arse anywhere near Molly, while she lay there not knowing what planet she was on, brought about a fierce reaction. She just couldn't help it, as wave after wave of revulsion passed through her; she just had to let go.
Albus Dumbledore probably knew more shield charms than any other witch or wizard alive, but they were all useless against the onslaught facing him. Who would have believed that all this could come out of such a small body?
The final wave of revulsion emptied Ginny's stomach as projectile vomit hit Dumbledore squarely on the chest. The self-proclaimed greatest wizard of our time was once again dressed in multi-coloured robes, though where the carrots came from no one was quite sure.
Ginny wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, and noticing her Ginny Potter bracelet, made up her mind. She dived towards Dylan and Freda.
Albus tutted at the impetus child before firing off a stunner at his daughter, he was astonished to see it deflecting off her back.
Ginny grabbed both elves as she screamed at the crazy old wizard, "my father WILL kill you! Blue lagoon."
Ginny could feel the wards trying to hold her back, but, as she thought of Harry, Hermione and Neville, she felt her power increase and blasted the wards apart.
Albus watched in horror before ending up on his arse due to the power released from the destroyed wards, he lay there wondering just what the hell had happened.
-oOoOo-
Harry was trying to console Hermione while his own mind was in turmoil, but Neville was a basketcase! One second he was laughing while the next looked ready to vomit.
Suddenly Neville dropped to his knees as Harry and Hermione both felt power flowing from them as well. A sobbing Ginny, still clutching both elves, appeared in front of them.
Ginny found herself immersed in hugs from her adoptive parents and clung to them like her life depended on it. When she portkeyed in Neville was only semi-conscious, due to Ginny's power requirements, but, with the knowledge she was safe, he had a smile back on his face while descending into a magical exhausted sleep.
Ginny had not only managed to save the elves but Dylan was still wearing the 'Pendant of Kahan,' she had single-handedly removed all their opposition's advantages.
Dobby and Winky took the elves away for treatment after handing over the pendant to Harry. Sirius and Remus put Neville to bed as the house occupants tried to settle down for the night.
Ginny hadn't released her hold on her parents, even when kissing the sleeping Neville she had Harry's arm in a death grip. She also hadn't said a word, which scared Harry and Hermione even more. Something was seriously wrong if Ginny wasn't talking.
The three Potters headed towards the master bedroom, Ginny gave them no choice as she refused to surrender their arms she was grasping. The got into bed with Ginny in the middle and, clutching them both to her, told them Dumbledore's tale.
Hermione was getting close to hysterical by the end. Molly had been raped, physically and mentally, and she, the supposed smartest witch of her age, had wanted her to receive the Dementors kiss when the woman needed medical treatment.
It was Harry who spoke, with such authority in his voice, that both female Potters had to sit up and take notice.
"Ok, lets set a few things straight, I am your father Ginny Potter and don't you forget it! We will check out the old bastards story in the morning but nothing is going to change that. You are Ginny Potter until you become a Longbottom."
This brought a glimmer of a smile to the faces of both the ladies.
"Now we will have Molly checked first thing tomorrow and see how far his manipulations went. I am only talking about her mind, as the other subject never needs to leave this room. I understand you will want to tell Neville and we wish to be there when you do. We are a family and we stick together. Is there anyone here who thinks this will make any more difference to Neville than it does to us?"
Both girls now had tears in their eyes but smiled as they shook their heads.
"Finally I would like to say that you were one hundred percent correct when you said your father would kill him. He kidnapped my daughter from her bed, that crosses the line in my book, and there will be no second chances."
He half expected an argument from Hermione but all that came back was, "only if I don't get to him first!"
They held each other close and chatted into the night before Hermione was struck by a thought, "if he was doing that to Molly, do you think he messed with the Dursleys minds as well? Their behaviour was anything but normal. Most people care for their pets better than you were treated at Privet Drive."
It had always troubled Harry the vast gulf in treatment between Dudley and him, could it be that the old man screwed with there heads? Dudley's treatment was as odd as his, just the other end of the spectrum. So-called normality would be somewhere in the middle. Could punishing him to one extreme cause them to treat Dudley to the other?
The sun hadn't risen but the Potters were up, Ginny took Hermione into her room to get dressed while Harry stood just outside the door. Returning via Neville's room to give her sleeping boyfriend another thank-you kiss. The Potter parents got ready one at a time in their bathroom while Ginny clung to the other outside.
She thought her behaviour was just a touch irrational but didn't care, she felt safe beside her parents and knew no harm could come to her as long as they were by her side so she intended to make sure that happened.
As they walked into the dining room Dobby appeared with some news, "the only other person involved is his younger brother, Aberforth Dumbledore, and they were held in some small cottage. Both Dylan and Freda are fighting the curse but it's draining their magic, and neither wants anyone to help in case it affects their bond. They would rather die together than live apart."
"How long do they have?" asked Hermione.
"A few days! It's different from not having a master; they have one and are disobeying him when he calls."
"Could our magic help without affecting their bond?" pondered Harry.
"I'm not sure but I'll ask if they want to try. Do you need me for anything?"
Harry took a deep breath before answering, "yes, could you ask Minerva if Molly Weasley ever worked as a research assistant to the former Headmaster."
After a slight pause he replied, "Winky is asking her now. Yes she worked until she had to leave due to being pregnant with Ginny."
Dobby watched the extreme reaction of the three Potters to that news, they looked ready to be sick, and suddenly the relentless manipulation towards a Harry/Ginny relationship by Dumbledore made sense, "the bastard!" he whispered.
A sobbing Winky suddenly appeared and wrapped herself round Ginny, "oh my poor girl, don't you worry. You're a Potter now, just like Dobby and me. We all stick together." She then looked at Harry; "if you want to kill him then you better find the prick before I do because I'll rip him limb from limb."
Hermione had her arms round both of them but could clearly be heard saying, "join the queue Winky, Join the queue."
Dobby and Harry prayed they never became the recipients of the looks their wives were wearing.
Harry set the tasks for the day, "the most important thing is to find a counter to that curse. Ginny's protection charm worked brilliantly and allowed her to activate her portkey. Could something like that protect from the curse? Ask Godric's portrait for help and keep us informed about Dylan and Freda, we need to go to Gringotts."
Both Winky and Dobby kissed Ginny on the cheek before leaving. Harry put the pendant round Ginny's neck and, taking her other arm, told her to think of Ragnok's office.
-oOoOo-
Ragnok and Griphook were showing the effects of having a long night. Sitting drinking coffee, going over the few facts they had for what seemed like the hundredth time, when there attention was drawn to the three Potters now standing in Ragnok's office.
Ginny came forward and bowed, removed the pendant and spoke to Ragnok, "what was stolen has been returned."
Both goblins looked at the pendant and then back at Ginny, "how?"
The story was retold, minus the parental issue, and Griphook immediately arranged for the three remaining prisoners to be sent to the goblin medical facility.
"You have done us a great service Ginny Potter, Friend of the Goblin Nation." Ragnok answered formally.
The Potters were delighted and sat to discuss their next moves.
"Is there anyone here how thinks the old man is sane?" asked Hermione.
"Sadly no" answered Ragnok, "what the wizarding world passed off as 'eccentricity' in Dumbledore would have seen anyone else checked into St Mungo's."
Ginny asked quietly, "What does that mean? Are we going to try and capture him?"
"No! While I agree he's not sane that doesn't mean he's not dangerous, quite the opposite in fact. We all acknowledge that he's fixated on my family and will commit any crime to accomplish whatever his goals may be. If a goblin prison cell couldn't hold him then no hospital would stand a chance, and I suspect we will get confirmation that he's manipulated our lives a lot more than we first thought. In the end it comes down to the fact my family will never be safe while he lives, and my family's safety is the most important thing in the world to me." Declared Harry.
No objections to the statement came from the room so they proceeded to process the new information in the hope of throwing up some leads.
Griphook quickly found information on the brother, "it appears that the brother might be a few Knut's short of a Galleon as well. He dropped off the wizarding map after just escaping a term in Azkaban for casting 'inappropriate' charms on a goat. We are currently searching our records for any purchase of a small farm building."
A goblin healer approached Ragnok with some news and was asked to address the group. "The two muggles have had their minds modified to hate anything magical and treat one Harry Potter as a freak of nature. The witch has the worse case of mind meddling I have ever seen or even heard about. She has been fed instructions regularly for many years, over a decade at least, and now has trouble functioning since they have stopped being administered. Her mind has been messed with so much that the poor woman must have been a nightmare to live with, smothering you with love one minute and screaming at you the next."
"Is there anything we can do for them?" asked Harry.
The healer replied, "the muggles should recover in a couple of weeks but the witch might not make it. Her mind is unravelling at an alarming rate. She keeps asking for Harry and Ginny as if her world is focused on you two and meeting you both may help. If I may be so bold, can I suggest Mrs Potter not accompany you as this just might send her over the edge. Regardless of whether this does any good it may be the last chance to talk to her before she losses what little grip she has left on reality."
Before Harry could answer, Hermione spoke over their bond, 'we have to do this for Ginny, don't worry about me, I'll be with you in that room'
Ginny looked into his eyes questioningly and asked, "Dad?"
"Lead the way healer" he said, "Hermione could you come as well? I want to speak to the Dursleys after Molly."
They found themselves outside a hospital bedroom as the healer gave them some final instructions, "even our scans had her screaming in rage so we gave her a mild calming draft, don't be alarmed if see appears sleepy."
"Are you ready for this Ginny Potter?" asked Harry
She had a hold on his arm tighter than Devil's Snare as she mumbled "no" but followed him in anyway.
Molly Weasley tried to sit up in the hospital bed but found she was just too tired. She, of course, immediately recognised her daughter but not the handsome young man on whose arm she clung, at least not until he spoke.
"Harry?"
He just nodded, but the look of happiness in her eyes could be seen from outer space.
She held her hand out and Ginny, very reluctantly, took one hand of Harry's arm and held it towards Molly.
Molly didn't notice the reluctance but she did notice the exquisite bracelet she was wearing, and the inscription brought tears to her eyes. "Ginny Potter! Your Ginny Potter now?"
Harry bent down and kissed his daughter on the top of her head, "yes she is!"
Molly let Ginny's hand go and lay back with a look of utter bliss on her tear stained face. She didn't notice that they had both left and honestly didn't care, she had completed her task.
The name Ginny Potter had started unravelling the threads of manipulation placed in her mind by Dumbledore, the old wizard had been aware this might happen but not too worried. Molly wasn't supposed to live long after the dream of Ginny Potter became a reality.
Ginny fell apart after leaving the room, "how could anyone do that to her?" she sobbed.
"He had the same fate planned for you and me, our champion of the light is worse than Riddle. At least he just tried to kill us both." Answered Harry.
After Ginny had recovered, with the help of a mild 'cheering charm' from Hermione, they moved on.
The three Potters walked into a room containing both Dursleys and noticed a difference in their behaviour immediately.
Vernon couldn't even look at them, appalled at his previous behaviour, so turned on his side to face the wall. Petunia apologised for their treatment of him before her natural nosey nature took over and asked Harry to introduce the girls.
"This is my wife, Hermione, and our daughter Ginny."
At Petunia's stunned look, Ginny answered the unspoken question.
"They adopted me though I will have two sisters and a brother at the beginning of September."
Petunia's mouth was moving but no sound was being emitted, Harry put his arm around his wife and daughter, "yes Aunt Petunia, Hermione is pregnant and we're going to be blessed with triplets."
"Harry, how will you afford four of a family?" asked Vernon, his curiosity getting the better of him.
Harry was shocked! Not only was his uncle's tone polite, but also, he thought, it was the first time he had ever called him by his name.
Ginny was still under the effects of the cheering charm so answered quite happily, "believe me sir, money's not something these two need to worry about any time soon."
"Harry?" asked Petunia, "what happened to Dudley?"
"As far as I'm aware, he decided to stay at his school over the holidays."
Petunia had tears running down her cheeks, "I know I have no right to ask but could you look out for him? Please?"
It was Hermione who answered, "we will go and get him, he needs to be medically checked as well. You should be better in a few weeks then you can come and live with us while we all decide what to do next."
Petunia was really crying now, "Oh we couldn't impose. You'd do that for us after the way we treated you?"
Harry was looking at his wife as if she had two heads but had to agree with her thought that it was the right thing to do.
"Aunt Petunia, Uncle Vernon it won't be an imposition. Hermione's family moved there yesterday and we have plenty of room. Ginny will be back at school so you don't even have to put up with her."
The feisty redhead maturely stuck her tongue out at her father.
"But Harry," said Petunia, "don't you have to go to school as well?"
Ginny was laughing, "they don't attend Hogwarts anymore, they own it."
They chatted some more before leaving on their latest quest.
Harry was going to find out if his cousin had his mind manipulated or if he really was just a fat, arrogant bully.
A/N some questions have been asked of the Weasley ages and the timeline of this fic, all data was obtained from the wonderful HP Lexicon site.
Bill – born Nov. 29 1970
Harry – born July 31 1980
Ginny – born Aug. 11 1981
Voldemort attack on the Potter's - Oct 31 1981
Bill goes to Hogwarts Sept. 1 1982
No Weasleys were at Hogwarts before Harry reflected Voldemort's AK on Halloween.
Chapter 22
Dudley Dursley was seriously pissed off!
The obese boy had sat alone in his dorm for days distributing blame for his current circumstances, while name after name ran through his mind there was only one that was totally blameless, Dudley Dursley.
His parents were taking a lot of the blame because the selfish boy had received no presents from them for Christmas, he understood something had happened to them but they should have made provisions for the important things in life, namely Dudley's presents.
His head of dorm had explained that something happened to his parents and the child-care services were trying to find a foster home for him, due to the time of year he had recommended that Dudley remain in school over the holidays.
Dudley had woken on Christmas morning to only two presents, one was some sugar-free chocolate from the school and the other was from the freak, Potter!
An enraged Dudley had thrown the freak's present across the room where it landed with a resounding thump; this was not enough for Dudley who proceeded to use his considerable bulk to jump repeatedly on the parcel. Unaccustomed to exercise of any sort it was a heavily perspiring Dudley who, after only a few minutes, gave the unwanted present a final kick.
This was the kick that removed the last of the wrapping paper to reveal a box that had once contained the latest games consol now, thanks to Dudley's ministrations, just a pile of junk.
This had the effect of moving his temper to previously uncharted heights, not because he had just wrecked the one present he had really wanted - that would mean assigning blame to himself, no the problem was who the gift was from. How the hell could the freak afford it?
A twelve-year-old had the misfortune to pass and wish Dudley a 'Merry Christmas' which resulted on him being pounded on by the bully, it took three teachers, responding to the boys screams, to pull him off the younger student.
Dudley was then confined to his dorm while the school decided what to do with him, he was supposed to be expelled but they had no-where to send him. His options were severely limited and he was sure the phrase 'child correction facility' was mentioned more than once.
He had just made-up his mind that someone was going to pay heavily for daring to mess with 'Big-D' when the headmaster walked in, accompanied by some bloke and two absolutely gorgeous birds.
Dudley was thinking that things were looking up, he was just about to unleash his razor sharp wit and debonair smile to charm the birds out of their knickers when the bloke spoke in clearly recognisable voice, and Dudley's whole world shattered, falling all around him.
-oOoOo-
Dudley was on autopilot, he heard that he had been expelled and placed in the care of lord somebody, who was apparently his cousin. They left the school and no sooner had they stepped down an alley than they appeared in the strangest place he had ever seen.
He was led into a building that seemed to be run by things that weren't human and it was only minutes later when he was shown into a room containing his parents, this was the spark that Dudley needed to explode and he did.
His tantrum could be heard all over the bank before Harry placed a silencing charm on his cousin, quickly followed by a body bind. The peace and quiet was welcome, unlike the silence following the healer's declaration that the young human had never in his life had a spell cast on his mind.
There was only one conclusion that everyone in the room could reach, Dudley Dursley was a spoilt, arrogant bully.
A still frozen Dudley was placed in a corner with a charm that made him oblivious to the happenings inside the room. Harry could see Ginny wanted to get back and check on Neville but was torn between that and the security provided by her parents. He asked her if she would be ok with Winky watching over her? She readily agreed and left with the elf soon after Winky appeared.
The Potters then had a discussion with the Dursleys, both of whom had tears in their eyes, over the next step for Dudley. When they found out that he was expelled, and the reason behind it, Petunia was openly crying while Vernon just sat with a lost look on his face.
Harry made a suggestion that had both Dursleys recoiling in horror, but when Hermione explained the safety measures they would have in place this placated most of their fears. Twenty minutes later Harry's plan was agreed on so both left to put wheels in motion, Dudley could remain where he was for a little while longer.
-oOoOo-
Kevin Carter was amazed when he answered his secure phone only to heard Lord Gryffindor's voice. The favour asked for was well within his power to grant but Kevin was a cop first and wanted to check the facts he had been given. Harry agreed and promised to phone back in an hour.
He immediately phoned the school where the details he had been given were confirmed. Contacting the Little Whining police station for a quick background report followed this. The information he received was that the boy was a bully, along with his gang they terrorised the younger kids in the neighbourhood, no one would come forward with a complaint as the kids all lived in fear of the fat bully. It was suspected there were alcohol, tobacco and some low level drugs being consumed. Throw in vandalism, burglary as well as shoplifting and the boy was going to end up visiting one of Her Majesties guest houses (prison) before long as he was nowhere near as smart as he thought he was.
Kevin never had any doubts of Lord Gryffindor's facts and could understand, and even agree, with what he was trying to accomplish so phoned an old friend.
By the time Harry phoned back it was all arranged, except for the where and when which was quickly agreed on. Harry disconnected after informing Kevin that the Potters now owed him a favour, Kevin knew that the balance showed he still owed the Potters plenty, he could never repay them for his son's health.
-oOoOo-
Dudley had finally agreed to accompany Harry and his wife, but only because they were heading to a restaurant.
He couldn't believe that Harry could pull a hot bird like this, never mind this marriage shit. He was undressing her with his eyes when Harry casually remarked that the last person who put his hand on Hermione had their family jewels removed, without the aid of anesthetic, and was later beheaded.
Dudley cockily replied, "I suppose you are going to claim that you carried it out?"
The emotion in Harry's eyes scared the shit out of Dudley and he believed every word of his answer, "Our friends got to him before I could otherwise he would have suffered a lot worse than that."
Dudley couldn't comprehend anything that could equal loosing your wedding tackle and then having your head cut off but was willing to take Harry's word for it, he just hoped he never got to find out what was worse.
The physical changes in his cousin were one thing but, even more noticeable was his change in attitude. All Dudley's senses were screaming 'don't mess with this guy' and even he wasn't stupid enough to go against his sense of self-preservation.
They had just started eating in the small Italian restaurant when their table was approached by two police officers. The first one enquired, "Dudley Dursley?"
Both Harry and Hermione looked at the boy who, just moments before, had been shovelling food down his throat like a stevedore on bonus. With his pasta-laden fork frozen en route to his mouth, he looked up at the two cops in shock.
"Dudley Dursley, you are under arrest for the unprovoked assault of a minor."
The second cop was almost chuckling, "it would seem that you beat up the wrong person, apparently his old man is not only a judge, but one renowned for coming down hard on bullies. The poor kid had to go to hospital and you disturbed his father's holidays. Sure hate to be in your shoes."
Dudley was made stand while his wrists were cuffed behind his back, and he was then led out the restaurant with a cop on each arm. Harry asked for the bill, left a large tip then headed back to Gringotts.
-oOoOo-
Dudley was sitting in the back of a police van that was transporting him to prison, all the shit he'd learned from constant TV watching was being ignored, no phone call, no court, do not pass go and do not collect two hundred pounds – go directly to jail.
He'd been fingerprinted, photographed and then told to strip, and the sight of that doctor putting lubricant onto his rubber glove would be giving him nightmares for years.
He was now dressed in some sort of boiler suit/coverall so brightly coloured that, should anyone escape, they could be tracked by weather satellite.
Dudley had two prison guards guide him through the building towards his new accommodation. Some of the shouts from the other inmates had the boy terrified, fresh meat, make someone a good wife and be like lying on a waterbed were a few that really terrified him.
His spirits lifted only slightly when he was shown into his cell and discovered it was a single, the door being locked behind him brought a slight measure of relief.
In one of the most insightful moments of his life he wondered if this is how the freak felt when being locked up in the house, resentful yet relieved that the others couldn't get at you.
Dudley heard shouts coming from the cells on either side of him, each promising a good time though he doubted if his 'enjoyment' was even considered as part of the deal. He lay down on his bed and silently cried himself to sleep.
Elsewhere people were hopping they'd done the right thing.
-oOoOo-
Arthur Weasley was escorted into Molly's room by Griphook, He'd spent the afternoon trying to come to terms with the fact that his wife of over twenty five years was having her mind manipulated by a man the wizarding world respected above all others.
The betrayal he had felt at viewing his wife's trial now appeared insignificant compared to the pain of realising he had failed his wife and family, he had been unable to protect his wife and it had cost their youngest son his life.
Now he was being told that Molly might be lost to the world as well, Arthur Weasley was not a wizard who advocated violence as a solution but he would happily dismember one Albus Dumbledore with a blunt instrument.
He sat beside her bed and didn't know how to react, his emotions were in turmoil, as Arthur reached over and took Molly's hand the dam broke and he sobbed into his wife's still body.
He had no idea how long he had lain there but it was someone running their fingers through his sparse hair that drew him out of his funk, he looked up into the eyes of the person who held his heart since before they left Hogwarts and smiled.
"Hello love," she whispered, "I'm so sorry, I tried to fight him but he just kept using stronger spells until I didn't know what was him and what was me."
"You remember?" he asked.
"When I saw Harry and Ginny together it triggered a release and all his work started fading away, when I was fighting him he promised me that everything would be alright when they two got together. I clung onto that idea for so long and seeing Ginny Potter unlocked my mind."
Both now had tears running down their cheeks.
"She's so young and I hope she can forgive me, I never meant to hurt anyone and can only pray I haven't ruined their lives. I was told about Ron but was so out of it I couldn't even grieve, what happened to Hermione? Is she all right?"
Arthur wasn't sure if he should be giving his wife information but the pleading in her eyes left him helpless to resist.
"When we were arrested and Ron died, Ginny was in a terrible state. Harry and Hermione were the only ones who could reach her so she stayed with them. They then approached Bill about adopting her into the Potter family to offer her protection and a better life. The boys were unsure but agreed and everything they have seen since has convinced them they made the right decision. That's why she's Ginny Potter, Harry and Hermione adopted her as their daughter."
Molly was now sobbing, "oh thank Merlin! If I had ruined their lives I don't think I could have lived with myself, even knowing it was that old bastard I could still hear and see myself carrying out his orders."
Griphook had popped his head in the room and, seeing Molly talking, left to find the healer. He was there in minutes and proceeded to run scans over his patient.
When Molly told he healer what had happened his face lit up like a Christmas tree, with understanding instead of tinsel and respect replacing baubles.
"Your mind created a vault with Ginny Potter as the password, anything he did after that would have been removed shortly after the vault was open. He must have known this but the power required to break through would have destroyed your mind, and then you would have been of no use to him. The damage before that is only to a small proportion of your memories, we may be able to unlock them but the results would be unpredictable. The choice on whether or not to proceed would be a difficult one."
Harry and Hermione had entered with Griphook and caught the healer's diagnosis.
"There's no decision to be made, we need Molly healthy and the old bastard dead. Molly doesn't need any more messing with her head and we'll deal with Dumbledore."
Griphook immediately picked up that there was something that Harry didn't want found in Molly's memories, the healer was no slouch either and if the Lord Gryffindor thought it was better left alone, he wasn't going to argue.
"Actually I agree with the Lord Gryffindor, it would take us years to work out all the spells he cast on you, and trying to unblock a memory might trigger something else and cause a regression. Your recovery is more than we could ever have wished for."
Molly wasn't listening, she hadn't taken her eyes of the couple since they walked in the door. It was undoubtedly Harry and Hermione but then again it wasn't. just how long had she been down there?
"Can you two find it in your hearts to possibly forgive me? I couldn't be happier that you're married and would like to thank you for helping Ginny. I would understand if you couldn't…"
She never got to finish as a pregnant Potter leapt on her, giving a hug that would rival the recipient's on her best day.
"Oh Molly, I'm so sorry. I wanted you kissed for the way you hurt my Harry. Can you ever forgive me?"
A sobbing Molly replied, "if Harry can…"
Harry had walked over and lifted Molly's hand, "please excuse hormonal Hermione here, we are expecting three new Potters this year and they will need their gran Weasley fit and healthy."
This was exactly the right thing to say to maternal Molly, grandchildren were her greatest wish and to have three at once was overwhelming. She clung to Hermione just as hard as the pregnant witch was clinging to her.
"Bill's rounding up the rest of the boy's, Ginny's back on the island checking on her boyfriend, he was magically exhausted helping Ginny escape from the old bastard." Harry informed the Weasley's but seemed to create more questions than he answered.
Hermione sat up beside Molly to fill in the blanks, "Ginny was abducted by the old goat last night but had a portkey and protection charm on her that allowed her to escape. Her boyfriend, Neville Longbottom, gave her some of his magic, which allowed Ginny to pull down the wards where she was taken. She also rescued two elves and took away his ability to reach us again."
"Neville's a fine boy, are they bonded?" Molly asked.
Harry laughed, "after last night there can't be any doubts left and everyone is very happy about it."
"Lord Gryffindor," the healer interrupted, "you more than anyone will appreciate the changes our world has undergone while Mrs Weasley has been indisposed. Please limit information to that regarding her immediate family until she is a bit stronger. I have lived through the changes and even then I find some of them hard to believe."
Harry and Hermione just laughed but agreed with the healer, even they sometimes couldn't believe how far magical Britain had come.
They chatted for a few minutes more before promising to return with Ginny, explaining about the time difference of their location and that it might be tomorrow before the returned. They both portkeyed home.
-oOoOo-
Dudley lay in his cell and realised he could be here for a very long time, his father wasn't available to bail him out of trouble and any lawyer he got would be court appointed. Considering the kid he bashed was the son of a judge he reckoned his lawyer might not be trying too hard. Truth be told he had no defence, three teachers had pulled him off, and changing 'Merry Christmas' into a threat so vile he deserved the beating was beyond his meagre abilities.
When he heard the key in the door he was way beyond terrified.
Two guards told him to move and marched out of the cell, Dudley was led down past the area where the rest of the prisoners were enjoying breakfast. As the shouting began again Dudley felt someone grab his arse and nearly had to be carried by the guards while heading towards the wardens office.
Upon entering, his gaze was held by the sternest man he had ever seen. "Mr Dursley, Lord Gryffindor here has arranged for you to be handed over to his custody. This is on the strict understanding that he will carry out appropriate punishment on our behalf. Do you agree to these terms or will I have my officers take you down to breakfast?"
Dudley noticed the other person in the room, it was Harry dressed in a suit more expensive than anything his father ever owned. A choice of going with Harry or being gang rapped before breakfast was no choice at all.
"Please Sir! I'd prefer to go with Lord Gryffindor"
"Very well, wait outside while I have a word with his Lordship"
As soon as Dudley left the warden got ripped into Harry, "I hope this is seriously trying to help that young man and not some sort of bet or initiation rite. If it were anyone else but Kevin Carter they would have been told to go to hell. My officers have more work than they can handle, they don't need to be baby sitting someone's pet project."
"Sir I can assure you this is serious, that is my only cousin and I'm trying to make sure that last night is the only time he has to stay in one of these establishments. To prove how serious I am and by way of thanks I would like to offer you this." Harry pulled a bulging envelope out his pocket and the warden looked ready to explode.
Realising his mistake Harry quickly tried to defuse the situation, "Sir, this envelope only contains documents. My company is opening a clinic for the treatment of addicts and that is our offer to you for use of the secure wing we are building. It will hold ten and we will take responsibility for their treatment, safety and security. Our treatment will last from ten to fourteen days and allow you to reduce numbers slightly while helping alleviate the drugs problem in the prison. If you keep working to cut of the supply in here, we'll try to take away the demand."
Looking through the documents the warden could see that everything was above board and going to be run privately, without the taxpayer having to stump up a penny. "My Lord, I owe you an apology and would like to graciously accept this offer, hell I want to bite your arm off! We have been asking for this for years but funding was never available. You plan on having this up and running by late March?"
"Yes, please plan on sending the first group on the first Monday in April"
They shook hands and Harry left, he had just turned the corner before whispering, "Winky!" It was a blushing elf that appeared before Harry.
"What happened? You were supposed to guard him yet he turned up almost in a state of collapse."
The red-faced elf explained, "We were walking and he was being taunted so I came up behind him and squeezed his bum, I didn't mean for him to react like that. I was trying to give him a little fright instead I nearly scared the life out off him."
Harry tried to keep a stern look on his face but lasted all of five seconds before crumbling in laughter and hugging the elf, "Winky Potter, you are just brilliant! Please don't let any of the Marauders here that story, Dudley will never live it down and neither would you."
Harry went to find Dudley as it was time for phase two of his plan.
-oOoOo-
Dudley now found himself in a vast room where the ceiling looked alive and, when he sat at a table, breakfast just appeared.
Harry was having some toast and orange juice when Dudley asked him where they were, "this is the great hall at Hogwarts, we are initiating a new fitness program in the new term and, as part of your punishment, you shall be giving it a trial run for the next four days."
Dudley, out of prison and a bit of breakfast in him, reacted like his old self, "how dare you bring me to this freak school ahhhh…"
Dudley had shot out of his seat, straight into the air, and stopped about three feet from the ceiling. He was slowly revolving when he heard Harry speak in a tone that caused his breakfast to curdle in his large stomach.
"Your life is in my hands Dud, I could smash you into the ceiling or just let you fall. This isn't the playground, if you piss someone off enough here you could end up dead! When someone can kill you with just a look, why the hell would you go out of your way to antagonise them?"
Dudley was slowly lowered to the floor, "I got you out of prison and you will live in my world until your parents are fit enough to care for you. The magical world can be wonderful but is also dangerous, you pick on a twelve-year-old here and they'll kick your arse into the infirmary."
Harry tried a softer approach, "your mother and father had their minds messed with so they would treat me bad and this caused them to encourage you to do the same. They are receiving treatment and I will kill the bastard who did it. Can I ask you a question?"
Dudley just nodded.
"How did you feel when those prisoners were giving you all that attention?"
The look of revulsion on Dudley's face said more than words ever could.
"Well that's how women feel when you leer at them, its one thing to look and think 'she's hot' but quite another to undress them with your eyes. I say this because you are going to see some beautiful women, including your teacher, and if you give them the look you practiced on my wife, you could count yourself lucky if you get away with a kick in the nuts."
Tonks entered and within seconds Harry knew he hadn't got through to his cousin.
Tonks was beaming, "oh thanks Harry, this will give me some indication of what to expect in regards to fitness levels. Most purebloods don't do any exercise either so this will let me see just how far to push it"
"Just don't kill him Tonks and protect yourself at all times."
Tonks understood the double message she was being sent, if he stepped out of line come down hard.
"Dudley, Tonks was a police officer before joining us here but, unlike our police, she was armed and fought in combat. Treat her with respect or she will wipe the floor with you."
Harry could see he wasn't listening, as Tonks walked out Dudley followed, his gaze never left her bum.
-oOoOo-
Albus couldn't believe his run of bad luck, he needed something spectacular to get him back in the game. He glanced at the Prophet and noticed the events calendar for Hogwarts and his brilliant mind started formulating a plan. He had the where and the when, now if everything else fell into place he would once again be the greatest wizard in the land.