This is my fan-fiction that I wrote for the final book of Harry Potter, during the month of July 2005. You may visit the thread where I first posted the fanfic in this forum.
Harry Potter and the Fight of Justice
and I am Neon in that forum.
Sorry if there were too many mistakes. Also see the R.A.B theory in my blog www.worldofkavin.blogspot.com
Please forgive me if it was kiddish. It was two years back I wrote it. :p
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Chapter 5 : Marriage Massacre
Ginny was staring at Harry and was almost in tears. Harry was not sure of what to do next. He just stared back at her.
“Why didn’t you tell me, Harry?”
“Er- Ginny, what are you talking about?” replied Harry hiding the guilt on his face with a fake smile.
“Don’t hide it from me, Harry!” Ginny was now crying “not anymore”
Harry would have thought she was referring to his fake smile hiding his guilty expression if she hadn’t said “not anymore”. He didn’t know what to answer. He was looking at Hermione and Ron for help, but they were looking at Harry as if he had done a mistake.
So Harry decided that he should take up the situation in his hands.
“Ginny, I thought you need not know about it”
“Why?
“I don’t want to lose you, Ginny. I had actually planned to do it all alone but they would never leave me” said Harry pointing at Ron and Hermione.
“And I don’t want to lose you either, Harry” replied Ginny, her face looking triumphant.
Harry was of no words again. He didn’t know how to comfort her.
“Ginny, its something that I am doing for all of you and I don’t want you involved in it”
“No I will, Harry” Ginny said with a smile.
“You won’t do it, Ginny” Harry said “if you love me”
Ginny was taken aback. She didn’t answer anymore. She cried on Harry’s shoulders.
“Don’t worry Ginny! We will bring back Harry completely safe for you” Ron mocked.
“And I will make sure that I bring back your brother safe for you” Hermione said grinning at Ron. Ron was bewildered. He opened his mouth for replying but stopped from doing so when Ginny interrupted.
“Does mom know about it?” she asked to Ron.
“No one knows about it, Ginny. I am sure you won’t mention this to anyone” said Hermione.
“No I won’t” said Ginny still crying.
Just three days before marriage and the entire members of the Weasley were busier than before. Harry glanced at the wedding invitation which had the photos of Bill and Fleur smiling and in a corner they were dancing. The invitations had been sent to everyone as Ron said. However Harry found himself busy with the books he bought for himself. He had Hermione by the side when he was learning them, as Ron was called for some work all the time.
Harry was reading all the books. Hermione then interrupted Harry.
“Harry, I just learnt from Mr.Weasley that the book you have in your hands” Hermione said pointing to the copy of Dark Prince by Severus Snape “was banned several years ago”
Harry was shocked “Does Mr.Weasley know that I have this book?”
“No Harry, he doesn’t know. He didn’t suspect me”
“How do you know this book was banned? That lady Lisy sold me this book”
“No Harry. Lisy was new to this business. Before that, her father owned the business. It was Robert’s Dark Needs. She had inherited the shop from her father” Hermione said and after a pause when Harry expected more of her, she continued, “She didn’t know that the dark book was not to be sold. It is a crime to have the book in the shop. Her father was a supporter of Voldemort and hence he had the book in his old books shelf. When you went to ask her about the book, it fell in your hands”
Harry still made no reply. He has a book in his hand that was banned by the Ministry of Magic and even Hermione made no comments.
Harry browsed through the books again. Snape was a very good teacher when he came to book, according to Harry. The dark spells included Sectumsempra. Harry then went for the Scrimgeour’s book. Scrimgeour was very funny. The very first spell he found was Expelliarmus and he had given a large explanation about the spell.
“This is the first spell that I am going to teach you. This is the easiest of all spells. But regard it as tough! I remember a wizard pronouncing it wrong and he ended up in hospital later. See how funny wizards can be! Don’t worry readers! I will help you learn these quickly”
Harry was sure that the minister of magic, Rufus Scrimgeour, did not write the book, as Rufus never had a sense of humor.
“Do you believe this book was written by Rufus Scrimgeour?” asked Harry and passed on the book to Hermione.
“What made you think that?” said Hermione as she accepted the book and studied the book attentively.
Meanwhile Harry took the The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Tremble”. Quentin Tremble was very good unlike Scrimgeour. His stuff about Expelliarmus was much appreciable.
“Expelliarmus (Ex-Pelli-Arm-Us), the basic spell, that is used to disarm an opponent. Regarded as the easiest of spells, Expelliarmus is very often used when comes to defence.
Ratings:
Attack: 5
Defense: 8
Reliability: 8
Overall: 7
The spell is good against jinxes such as Rictusempra but not much useful when used against some Leviosa spells”
Harry continued browsing through the other spells when Hermione, finally, took her eyes off the book.
“Yes Harry, I really doubt this is the Minister of Magic himself”
“Then who would it be?”
“This guy is funny. He is humorous. But if we take our own time learning these spells, the death eaters would have killed a dozen” interrupted Hermione.
Harry thought for a second and then something flashed in his mind.
“Hermione, I want you to do something for me”
“What, Harry?”
Harry explained his wish to Hermione, which he wanted her to do it. Hermione was shocked.
“Its too tough Harry”
“I know Hermione. That’s why I confided in you”
Hermione blushed. Harry continued, “Browse through much books as you can. It will be helpful”
“Harry, where would I find it?”
Harry had no answer but Hermione continued, “ Don’t worry Harry! I can do it for you”
Harry gave a smile and thanked Hermione and glanced back into his books.
”How is Quentin Tremble?”
“Yes, he is much appreciable”
Their conversation ended when they were called for lunch. Tonks and Lupin were there too. Hermione was too excited as she would be before the exams.
“Mr.Weasley, has the Minister of Magic written any books?”
“No, as far as I know. Why?”
“Nothing Mr.Weasley. I was just wondering about a book once I read at school. The author was Scrimgeour”
Tonks raised her head and she was jumping in her chair as Hermione would do in the classes “Yes I know that Scrimgeour. He is Brutus Scrimgeour, a very funny man”
“Brutus?” asked Harry.
“Yes Harry” replied Tonks with a satisfied look of answering them.
“Are Brutus and Rufus brothers by the way” asked Hermione
“I don’t know about that, Hermione” said Tonks.
Mrs.Weasley was more excited. Fleur and Bill were not excited as they considered it as a part of a life routine. Charlie however had the same bored expression on his face. Harry assumed that it was because he hadn’t found any life partner for himself.
“Charlie, is the Priest Mr.Gibert ready?” asked Mrs.Weasley
“Yes he is, mom. He accepted to our charges and will be ready for the wedding”
Gabrielle often showed her dress she got for the wedding to Harry and got an appreciation for it. Ginny had got a new dress too. Both had got a pink dress and they were the maids for the Wedding. Ginny was the groom’s maid and Gabrielle was the bride’s maid.
The three days passed on as usual for Harry, studying those spells, giving Hermione and Ron, who had given an excuse to be with them, chances to learn them.
“How is the thing going, Hermione?” asked Harry
“Yes I am still working on it” replied Hermione.
“What thing?” , asked Ron.
“You will see it soon, Ron” replied Hermione with a grin.
“What?”, asked Ron, shocked at the answer.
Hermione paid no attention to Ron. She instead turned to Harry and said, “Harry, the Hogwarts trial is over. They have decided to close it permanently but the new decree states that those who were wishing to study can go in for correspondent coaching”
“I bet you will apply for that” said Ron.
“We should Ron. There lies in our future”
“Do we have a future?” asked Ron still worrying about being ignored by the two.
“Ron, I never expected you to be less confident. Well we should take the subjects, what do you think Harry?” asked Hermione.
Harry nodded and Ron nodded in agreement with Harry. Hermione was pleased and she went on with the Defense Academy book.
On the day of the wedding, they were rushed on. Harry had never seen Mrs.Weasley more excited. Mr.Weasley was however calm. Harry and Ron were in black suits and Hermione was wearing a green gown, which Ron frequently commented was so good. Ginny looked pretty in her pink gown. Gabrielle was pretty too but he didn’t feel like expressing it in front of Ginny. They reached the Old Rock Church early morning by car.
The church was decorated for the wedding. There was a band ready to play. Harry recognized them as the Weird Sisters. They were the most popular band of the wizarding world. Many wizards attended the wedding. Lupin and Tonks were the first ones to come. The most important one included Rufus Scrimgeour, accompanied by Percy Weasley, who looked as if he had no connection with the marriage and his daughter Florentyna Scrimgeour. She was very much like her father; her hair resembled the mane of her father. But she was pretty.
All the Hogwarts teachers were there. Flitwick was commenting about the excellent charms made for the ceremony. Professor McGonagall looked strict as usual. Hagrid was easily to be seen among the crowds.
The students he recognized among the crowd were Seamus Finnigan, who had come with his mother, Neville Longbottom who had come with his grandmother, and Cho Chang who had come with her mother. Harry turned away when he saw Cho Chang. He found Oliver Wood who beamed at him.
“Doesn’t she look beautiful Harry?” asked Charlie pointing at a girl with his eyes.
Harry’s assumption was confirmed. He was indeed looking for a life partner. Harry searched for the girl whom Charlie has pointed and shocked to find out that Charlie had pointed out Cho Chang.
”Yes she is” replied Harry and left the place to join Oliver Wood.
“Harry, Quidditch Captain of Gryffindor, Congrats!”
“Thanks”
“I was disappointed when the captaincy you were given were not made to use this year” said Oliver Wood.
Harry felt worried. The talks of Cho Chang, Hogwarts and Quidditch worried him and he felt a pain on his scar. Just then the band began to play and Harry expected the couple to be present but instead the Priest appeared. He had a fat belly and wore half-moon spectacles. The crowd got up to give respect.
“Is he a muggle?” Harry asked Oliver.
“No, Harry. He is the Priest for the wizards”
Mr.Weasley and Mrs.Weasley were in the front row talking something to the Delacours. Harry for the first time saw the Delacours. They looked as if they weren’t interested in their daughter’s marriage. Mr.Delacour resembled Fleur while Mrs.Delacour resembeled Gabrielle. Ron and Hermione were there in the front row. Harry wished he was in the front seat but made no attempt to shift places at this stage. The priest went up the stairs and the band now started playing a classic Church tune.
Just then, the door opened and Bill slowly marched forward on the red carpet accompanied by Ginny. They marched slowly and everyone’s eyes were upon them. When they reached the priest, Ginny moved back and joined her parents. Just then the tune grew more slowly and this time Fleur accompanied by Gabrielle, were marching slowly on the carpet. Fleur, in her wedding dress, looked pretty. Gabrielle marched along with Fleur innocently.
Then the priest made his speech. “We are gathered here today to celebrate one of life's greatest moments, to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love, and to add our best wishes to the words which shall unite Mr. Bill Weasley and Ms. Fleur Delacour in marriage”
He then made a pause and then continued, “Should there be anyone who has cause why this couple should not be united in marriage, they must speak now or forever hold their peace”
When no one made a move, Gabrielle escorted Fleur to Bill.
Mr.Gilbert continued, “Who is it that brings this woman to his man?”
Gabrielle let off her sister’s hands and said, “I, Gabrielle Delacour, her sister, do on behalf of her family and friends”
Gabrielle then stepped back and Bill took Fleur’s hand. They both smiled at each other.
Mr.Gilbert continued which Harry supposed he was saying the same for years, “Mr.Bill Weasley and Ms. Fleur Delacour, life is given to each of us as individuals, and yet we must learn to live together. Love is given to us by our family or by our friends. We learn to love by being loved. Learning to love and living together is one of the greatest challenges of life - and is the shared goal of a married life.
He then turned to Bill and said, “Mr. Bill Weasley, do you take, Ms. Fleur Delacour to be your Wife?”
“I do” Bill replied sincerely.
“Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect her, forsaking all others and holding only unto her?”
“I do”
He then turned to Fleur and repeated the same, “Ms. Fleur Delacour, do you take, Mr. Bill Weasley to be your husband?”
“I do”
“Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect him, forsaking all others and holding only unto him?”
“I do”
Then Mr.Gilbert continued, “Wedding rings are an outward and visible sign of an inward spiritual grace and the unbroken circle of love, signifying to all the union of this man and this woman in marriage"
Mr.Gilbert then gave a ring to Bill. Bill took it and repeated what Mr.Gilbert said to Fleur, “I ,Bill Weasley, take thee , Fleur Delacour to be my Wife. To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, and I promise my love to you forevermore.” And he pushed the ring onto her ring finger.
Fleur then took the same pledge and smiled at Bill who was sincerely looking at the priest.
“Mr. Bill Weasley, you may now kiss your bride”
Bill turned to Fleur and kissed Fleur much to the applause of the gathering.
The priest then made a long speech and the mass continued at the Grand Hall outside the Church. The dance tunes were played and the wedding couple happily danced to their tunes. Harry danced with Ginny and Ron with Hermione. Ron was not looking at Hermione while dancing and ended up stamping others’ legs. Gabrielle was looking sad. Harry was shocked to see Charlie dancing with Cho Chang and later with Florentyna Scrimgeour. He thought that Charlie had gone mad. Then he suddenly disappeared.
When Ginny was called for a talk with the Delacours, Gabrielle came up to Harry and asked Harry to dance with her. Harry couldn’t protest and danced with Gabrielle till the end that made Ginny red. The wedding party was great, Harry thought. But something went wrong. He was going through the room to see what was wrong. Many of them had already left including Rufus Scrimgeour. He noticed Charlie giving a smile to the priest and the priest nodded. Harry didn’t understand the situation.
Bill became still. He looked as if he was stunned. His eyes went red. Then he hit himself. He fell on the floor and rolled over the same place. Everyone’s eyes were on Bill.
“Bill, what happened?” asked Fleur astonished by what happened there.
Harry looked at Mr.Gilbert. His eyes were stern on Bill. His hair changed. He no longer had a huge belly. His face became like a ferocious man. He smiled. Harry noticed the tooth of that of a werewolf. The crowd panicked. All the Weasleys were shocked. Charlie was however not.
Mr.Gilbert now completely changed back to Fenrir Greyback. Now having his eyes stern on Bill, he pointed his fingers on Harry. Bill got up, and ran towards Harry. Harry had no defense but to run. Everyone panicked. Many of them had not brought their wands. Harry was sure that Bill didn’t do anything on his own. Harry had to push everyone to escape from Bill.
Harry ran as fast as he could towards the exit. He heard several spells. The wizards were fighting but against whom, Harry thought. Then a thought flickered in Harry’s mind. There was not only Fenrir Greyback. There were several death eaters as well. Harry ran towards a dead end. He turned back to see Bill smiling now his teeth resembling that of a werewolf.
Bill slowly marched towards Harry. Harry searched for his wand. He then found it inside his suit and he pointed it at Bill. Bill had no second thought of advancing towards Harry.
Harry shouted “Petrifucus Totalus”
Bill was stunned and he couldn’t move. Harry ran back towards the hall and found the mess. There were quite a few death eaters. They were the same that invaded Hogwarts the previous year. There were Alecto, Amycus, Big Blond and also two of them who were hooded.
Harry raised his wand to attack Amycus who was dueling with Lupin. But someone hit him very hard. Fenrir Greyback advanced towards Harry and tried to bite him.
“Stupefy”
Fenrir Greyback was stunned to the ground. Harry saw Ron who had his wand. He must have cast the spell.
“Where is Hermione?”
“She is helping Tonks duel with Alecto”
“And Ginny?”
“She is dueling too. Hey watch out”
A faint blue spell just missed Harry. He turned to see one of the hooded death eaters. It was Augustus Rookwood. Both Harry and Ron pointed their wands at him.
Harry shouted “Rictusempra”
Rookwood disapparated and the spell hit Amycus and he was blown off. Mr.Weasley came out of nowhere.
“Harry and Ron, you must all go back to the burrow now”
“No Mr.Weasley. We should fight”
“No Harry. Do as I say. Come on. Go”
Both Harry and Ron disapparated and apparated at the Burrow. A moment later, Harry heard a click and Hermione and Ginny appeared. Both were extremely dirty.
Ginny was almost crying. Hermione was shocked.
“Where are Fred and George?”
“They are dueling” Hermione said looking at the door.
“Where is mom?” asked Ron and he looked at the door too imitating Hermione.
“She has gone to St.Mungo’s hospital”
“For what?”
“Nothing happened to her. She was sent to get some help”
There was another pop and Fleur and Gabrielle popped. Gabrielle was holding firmly on Fleur. Fleur was crying.
“What happened to Bill?” asked Harry.
“’e iz fine. ‘e needs to be in St.Mungo’s ‘ospital”
“What happened to him?”
“Till yesterday, we believed that there was no side effects for the cursed wounds. But now.. “ Fleur sobbed.
“What happened?”
“Bill iz controlled by Fenrir. ‘e acted like a puppet. ‘e iz attacking you”
“But how did this all happen? How the death eaters planned?”
“Charlie iz under imperius curse”
Ron gave a gasp at this. Hermione fell on the sofa. She looked as if she had an idea.
She said, “It was he who appointed the priest. It was he who called the death eaters. And my guess is, he didn’t go to diagon alley often. He went to inform the death eaters”
Ron was still shocked. They had to spend the evening alone. Mrs.Weasley came home. Her eyes were red and she was not in her usual tone. It was Mr.Weasley and Lupin who gave them the details.
“Charlie was under imperius curse” said Lupin
“Don’t worry! He will be alright” added Mr.Weasley
“And what about Bill?” asked Ron.
“He is in St.Mungo’s. He had hit himself so badly”
“Any death eaters caught?” asked Hermione
“Fenrir Greyback was caught. Thanks to Harry”
“Thanks to Ron” said Harry with a smile. He was happy that none were injured. That evening Harry called Ron and Hermione to his bedroom.
“Fred and George arrived” Ron said as he sat on the bed.
“Harry, what you called us for?”
“I should have expected it” said Harry faintly.
“Yes Harry. But now nothing happened”
“They attacked inside the mass hall. How could they do that?” asked Ron.
“It’s a matter of time before they plan another attack” said Harry raising his voice.
“I can see what you are thinking Harry” said Hermione patting Harry’s shoulders.
“We should wait no more” Harry almost shouted.
Hermione stopped patting. Ron was looking at Harry.
“Enough of waiting. Its time for revenge” said Harry. Ron nodded approvingly. Hermione was pleased rather taken aback.
“We are starting our work tomorrow”
Ron nodded again. Hermione said, “Not until we are prepared Harry”
“Its time to get on Snape’s banned work”
Ron said, “We have to know where the horcruxes are hidden”
“We will find out. Quentin is going to help me”
Ron had no idea what Harry meant. He just nodded in approval.
”The Death Eaters have just meddled with the Dumbledore’s Army”
“Why didn’t you tell me, Harry?”
“Er- Ginny, what are you talking about?” replied Harry hiding the guilt on his face with a fake smile.
“Don’t hide it from me, Harry!” Ginny was now crying “not anymore”
Harry would have thought she was referring to his fake smile hiding his guilty expression if she hadn’t said “not anymore”. He didn’t know what to answer. He was looking at Hermione and Ron for help, but they were looking at Harry as if he had done a mistake.
So Harry decided that he should take up the situation in his hands.
“Ginny, I thought you need not know about it”
“Why?
“I don’t want to lose you, Ginny. I had actually planned to do it all alone but they would never leave me” said Harry pointing at Ron and Hermione.
“And I don’t want to lose you either, Harry” replied Ginny, her face looking triumphant.
Harry was of no words again. He didn’t know how to comfort her.
“Ginny, its something that I am doing for all of you and I don’t want you involved in it”
“No I will, Harry” Ginny said with a smile.
“You won’t do it, Ginny” Harry said “if you love me”
Ginny was taken aback. She didn’t answer anymore. She cried on Harry’s shoulders.
“Don’t worry Ginny! We will bring back Harry completely safe for you” Ron mocked.
“And I will make sure that I bring back your brother safe for you” Hermione said grinning at Ron. Ron was bewildered. He opened his mouth for replying but stopped from doing so when Ginny interrupted.
“Does mom know about it?” she asked to Ron.
“No one knows about it, Ginny. I am sure you won’t mention this to anyone” said Hermione.
“No I won’t” said Ginny still crying.
Just three days before marriage and the entire members of the Weasley were busier than before. Harry glanced at the wedding invitation which had the photos of Bill and Fleur smiling and in a corner they were dancing. The invitations had been sent to everyone as Ron said. However Harry found himself busy with the books he bought for himself. He had Hermione by the side when he was learning them, as Ron was called for some work all the time.
Harry was reading all the books. Hermione then interrupted Harry.
“Harry, I just learnt from Mr.Weasley that the book you have in your hands” Hermione said pointing to the copy of Dark Prince by Severus Snape “was banned several years ago”
Harry was shocked “Does Mr.Weasley know that I have this book?”
“No Harry, he doesn’t know. He didn’t suspect me”
“How do you know this book was banned? That lady Lisy sold me this book”
“No Harry. Lisy was new to this business. Before that, her father owned the business. It was Robert’s Dark Needs. She had inherited the shop from her father” Hermione said and after a pause when Harry expected more of her, she continued, “She didn’t know that the dark book was not to be sold. It is a crime to have the book in the shop. Her father was a supporter of Voldemort and hence he had the book in his old books shelf. When you went to ask her about the book, it fell in your hands”
Harry still made no reply. He has a book in his hand that was banned by the Ministry of Magic and even Hermione made no comments.
Harry browsed through the books again. Snape was a very good teacher when he came to book, according to Harry. The dark spells included Sectumsempra. Harry then went for the Scrimgeour’s book. Scrimgeour was very funny. The very first spell he found was Expelliarmus and he had given a large explanation about the spell.
“This is the first spell that I am going to teach you. This is the easiest of all spells. But regard it as tough! I remember a wizard pronouncing it wrong and he ended up in hospital later. See how funny wizards can be! Don’t worry readers! I will help you learn these quickly”
Harry was sure that the minister of magic, Rufus Scrimgeour, did not write the book, as Rufus never had a sense of humor.
“Do you believe this book was written by Rufus Scrimgeour?” asked Harry and passed on the book to Hermione.
“What made you think that?” said Hermione as she accepted the book and studied the book attentively.
Meanwhile Harry took the The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Tremble”. Quentin Tremble was very good unlike Scrimgeour. His stuff about Expelliarmus was much appreciable.
“Expelliarmus (Ex-Pelli-Arm-Us), the basic spell, that is used to disarm an opponent. Regarded as the easiest of spells, Expelliarmus is very often used when comes to defence.
Ratings:
Attack: 5
Defense: 8
Reliability: 8
Overall: 7
The spell is good against jinxes such as Rictusempra but not much useful when used against some Leviosa spells”
Harry continued browsing through the other spells when Hermione, finally, took her eyes off the book.
“Yes Harry, I really doubt this is the Minister of Magic himself”
“Then who would it be?”
“This guy is funny. He is humorous. But if we take our own time learning these spells, the death eaters would have killed a dozen” interrupted Hermione.
Harry thought for a second and then something flashed in his mind.
“Hermione, I want you to do something for me”
“What, Harry?”
Harry explained his wish to Hermione, which he wanted her to do it. Hermione was shocked.
“Its too tough Harry”
“I know Hermione. That’s why I confided in you”
Hermione blushed. Harry continued, “Browse through much books as you can. It will be helpful”
“Harry, where would I find it?”
Harry had no answer but Hermione continued, “ Don’t worry Harry! I can do it for you”
Harry gave a smile and thanked Hermione and glanced back into his books.
”How is Quentin Tremble?”
“Yes, he is much appreciable”
Their conversation ended when they were called for lunch. Tonks and Lupin were there too. Hermione was too excited as she would be before the exams.
“Mr.Weasley, has the Minister of Magic written any books?”
“No, as far as I know. Why?”
“Nothing Mr.Weasley. I was just wondering about a book once I read at school. The author was Scrimgeour”
Tonks raised her head and she was jumping in her chair as Hermione would do in the classes “Yes I know that Scrimgeour. He is Brutus Scrimgeour, a very funny man”
“Brutus?” asked Harry.
“Yes Harry” replied Tonks with a satisfied look of answering them.
“Are Brutus and Rufus brothers by the way” asked Hermione
“I don’t know about that, Hermione” said Tonks.
Mrs.Weasley was more excited. Fleur and Bill were not excited as they considered it as a part of a life routine. Charlie however had the same bored expression on his face. Harry assumed that it was because he hadn’t found any life partner for himself.
“Charlie, is the Priest Mr.Gibert ready?” asked Mrs.Weasley
“Yes he is, mom. He accepted to our charges and will be ready for the wedding”
Gabrielle often showed her dress she got for the wedding to Harry and got an appreciation for it. Ginny had got a new dress too. Both had got a pink dress and they were the maids for the Wedding. Ginny was the groom’s maid and Gabrielle was the bride’s maid.
The three days passed on as usual for Harry, studying those spells, giving Hermione and Ron, who had given an excuse to be with them, chances to learn them.
“How is the thing going, Hermione?” asked Harry
“Yes I am still working on it” replied Hermione.
“What thing?” , asked Ron.
“You will see it soon, Ron” replied Hermione with a grin.
“What?”, asked Ron, shocked at the answer.
Hermione paid no attention to Ron. She instead turned to Harry and said, “Harry, the Hogwarts trial is over. They have decided to close it permanently but the new decree states that those who were wishing to study can go in for correspondent coaching”
“I bet you will apply for that” said Ron.
“We should Ron. There lies in our future”
“Do we have a future?” asked Ron still worrying about being ignored by the two.
“Ron, I never expected you to be less confident. Well we should take the subjects, what do you think Harry?” asked Hermione.
Harry nodded and Ron nodded in agreement with Harry. Hermione was pleased and she went on with the Defense Academy book.
On the day of the wedding, they were rushed on. Harry had never seen Mrs.Weasley more excited. Mr.Weasley was however calm. Harry and Ron were in black suits and Hermione was wearing a green gown, which Ron frequently commented was so good. Ginny looked pretty in her pink gown. Gabrielle was pretty too but he didn’t feel like expressing it in front of Ginny. They reached the Old Rock Church early morning by car.
The church was decorated for the wedding. There was a band ready to play. Harry recognized them as the Weird Sisters. They were the most popular band of the wizarding world. Many wizards attended the wedding. Lupin and Tonks were the first ones to come. The most important one included Rufus Scrimgeour, accompanied by Percy Weasley, who looked as if he had no connection with the marriage and his daughter Florentyna Scrimgeour. She was very much like her father; her hair resembled the mane of her father. But she was pretty.
All the Hogwarts teachers were there. Flitwick was commenting about the excellent charms made for the ceremony. Professor McGonagall looked strict as usual. Hagrid was easily to be seen among the crowds.
The students he recognized among the crowd were Seamus Finnigan, who had come with his mother, Neville Longbottom who had come with his grandmother, and Cho Chang who had come with her mother. Harry turned away when he saw Cho Chang. He found Oliver Wood who beamed at him.
“Doesn’t she look beautiful Harry?” asked Charlie pointing at a girl with his eyes.
Harry’s assumption was confirmed. He was indeed looking for a life partner. Harry searched for the girl whom Charlie has pointed and shocked to find out that Charlie had pointed out Cho Chang.
”Yes she is” replied Harry and left the place to join Oliver Wood.
“Harry, Quidditch Captain of Gryffindor, Congrats!”
“Thanks”
“I was disappointed when the captaincy you were given were not made to use this year” said Oliver Wood.
Harry felt worried. The talks of Cho Chang, Hogwarts and Quidditch worried him and he felt a pain on his scar. Just then the band began to play and Harry expected the couple to be present but instead the Priest appeared. He had a fat belly and wore half-moon spectacles. The crowd got up to give respect.
“Is he a muggle?” Harry asked Oliver.
“No, Harry. He is the Priest for the wizards”
Mr.Weasley and Mrs.Weasley were in the front row talking something to the Delacours. Harry for the first time saw the Delacours. They looked as if they weren’t interested in their daughter’s marriage. Mr.Delacour resembled Fleur while Mrs.Delacour resembeled Gabrielle. Ron and Hermione were there in the front row. Harry wished he was in the front seat but made no attempt to shift places at this stage. The priest went up the stairs and the band now started playing a classic Church tune.
Just then, the door opened and Bill slowly marched forward on the red carpet accompanied by Ginny. They marched slowly and everyone’s eyes were upon them. When they reached the priest, Ginny moved back and joined her parents. Just then the tune grew more slowly and this time Fleur accompanied by Gabrielle, were marching slowly on the carpet. Fleur, in her wedding dress, looked pretty. Gabrielle marched along with Fleur innocently.
Then the priest made his speech. “We are gathered here today to celebrate one of life's greatest moments, to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love, and to add our best wishes to the words which shall unite Mr. Bill Weasley and Ms. Fleur Delacour in marriage”
He then made a pause and then continued, “Should there be anyone who has cause why this couple should not be united in marriage, they must speak now or forever hold their peace”
When no one made a move, Gabrielle escorted Fleur to Bill.
Mr.Gilbert continued, “Who is it that brings this woman to his man?”
Gabrielle let off her sister’s hands and said, “I, Gabrielle Delacour, her sister, do on behalf of her family and friends”
Gabrielle then stepped back and Bill took Fleur’s hand. They both smiled at each other.
Mr.Gilbert continued which Harry supposed he was saying the same for years, “Mr.Bill Weasley and Ms. Fleur Delacour, life is given to each of us as individuals, and yet we must learn to live together. Love is given to us by our family or by our friends. We learn to love by being loved. Learning to love and living together is one of the greatest challenges of life - and is the shared goal of a married life.
He then turned to Bill and said, “Mr. Bill Weasley, do you take, Ms. Fleur Delacour to be your Wife?”
“I do” Bill replied sincerely.
“Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect her, forsaking all others and holding only unto her?”
“I do”
He then turned to Fleur and repeated the same, “Ms. Fleur Delacour, do you take, Mr. Bill Weasley to be your husband?”
“I do”
“Do you promise to love, honor, cherish and protect him, forsaking all others and holding only unto him?”
“I do”
Then Mr.Gilbert continued, “Wedding rings are an outward and visible sign of an inward spiritual grace and the unbroken circle of love, signifying to all the union of this man and this woman in marriage"
Mr.Gilbert then gave a ring to Bill. Bill took it and repeated what Mr.Gilbert said to Fleur, “I ,Bill Weasley, take thee , Fleur Delacour to be my Wife. To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, and I promise my love to you forevermore.” And he pushed the ring onto her ring finger.
Fleur then took the same pledge and smiled at Bill who was sincerely looking at the priest.
“Mr. Bill Weasley, you may now kiss your bride”
Bill turned to Fleur and kissed Fleur much to the applause of the gathering.
The priest then made a long speech and the mass continued at the Grand Hall outside the Church. The dance tunes were played and the wedding couple happily danced to their tunes. Harry danced with Ginny and Ron with Hermione. Ron was not looking at Hermione while dancing and ended up stamping others’ legs. Gabrielle was looking sad. Harry was shocked to see Charlie dancing with Cho Chang and later with Florentyna Scrimgeour. He thought that Charlie had gone mad. Then he suddenly disappeared.
When Ginny was called for a talk with the Delacours, Gabrielle came up to Harry and asked Harry to dance with her. Harry couldn’t protest and danced with Gabrielle till the end that made Ginny red. The wedding party was great, Harry thought. But something went wrong. He was going through the room to see what was wrong. Many of them had already left including Rufus Scrimgeour. He noticed Charlie giving a smile to the priest and the priest nodded. Harry didn’t understand the situation.
Bill became still. He looked as if he was stunned. His eyes went red. Then he hit himself. He fell on the floor and rolled over the same place. Everyone’s eyes were on Bill.
“Bill, what happened?” asked Fleur astonished by what happened there.
Harry looked at Mr.Gilbert. His eyes were stern on Bill. His hair changed. He no longer had a huge belly. His face became like a ferocious man. He smiled. Harry noticed the tooth of that of a werewolf. The crowd panicked. All the Weasleys were shocked. Charlie was however not.
Mr.Gilbert now completely changed back to Fenrir Greyback. Now having his eyes stern on Bill, he pointed his fingers on Harry. Bill got up, and ran towards Harry. Harry had no defense but to run. Everyone panicked. Many of them had not brought their wands. Harry was sure that Bill didn’t do anything on his own. Harry had to push everyone to escape from Bill.
Harry ran as fast as he could towards the exit. He heard several spells. The wizards were fighting but against whom, Harry thought. Then a thought flickered in Harry’s mind. There was not only Fenrir Greyback. There were several death eaters as well. Harry ran towards a dead end. He turned back to see Bill smiling now his teeth resembling that of a werewolf.
Bill slowly marched towards Harry. Harry searched for his wand. He then found it inside his suit and he pointed it at Bill. Bill had no second thought of advancing towards Harry.
Harry shouted “Petrifucus Totalus”
Bill was stunned and he couldn’t move. Harry ran back towards the hall and found the mess. There were quite a few death eaters. They were the same that invaded Hogwarts the previous year. There were Alecto, Amycus, Big Blond and also two of them who were hooded.
Harry raised his wand to attack Amycus who was dueling with Lupin. But someone hit him very hard. Fenrir Greyback advanced towards Harry and tried to bite him.
“Stupefy”
Fenrir Greyback was stunned to the ground. Harry saw Ron who had his wand. He must have cast the spell.
“Where is Hermione?”
“She is helping Tonks duel with Alecto”
“And Ginny?”
“She is dueling too. Hey watch out”
A faint blue spell just missed Harry. He turned to see one of the hooded death eaters. It was Augustus Rookwood. Both Harry and Ron pointed their wands at him.
Harry shouted “Rictusempra”
Rookwood disapparated and the spell hit Amycus and he was blown off. Mr.Weasley came out of nowhere.
“Harry and Ron, you must all go back to the burrow now”
“No Mr.Weasley. We should fight”
“No Harry. Do as I say. Come on. Go”
Both Harry and Ron disapparated and apparated at the Burrow. A moment later, Harry heard a click and Hermione and Ginny appeared. Both were extremely dirty.
Ginny was almost crying. Hermione was shocked.
“Where are Fred and George?”
“They are dueling” Hermione said looking at the door.
“Where is mom?” asked Ron and he looked at the door too imitating Hermione.
“She has gone to St.Mungo’s hospital”
“For what?”
“Nothing happened to her. She was sent to get some help”
There was another pop and Fleur and Gabrielle popped. Gabrielle was holding firmly on Fleur. Fleur was crying.
“What happened to Bill?” asked Harry.
“’e iz fine. ‘e needs to be in St.Mungo’s ‘ospital”
“What happened to him?”
“Till yesterday, we believed that there was no side effects for the cursed wounds. But now.. “ Fleur sobbed.
“What happened?”
“Bill iz controlled by Fenrir. ‘e acted like a puppet. ‘e iz attacking you”
“But how did this all happen? How the death eaters planned?”
“Charlie iz under imperius curse”
Ron gave a gasp at this. Hermione fell on the sofa. She looked as if she had an idea.
She said, “It was he who appointed the priest. It was he who called the death eaters. And my guess is, he didn’t go to diagon alley often. He went to inform the death eaters”
Ron was still shocked. They had to spend the evening alone. Mrs.Weasley came home. Her eyes were red and she was not in her usual tone. It was Mr.Weasley and Lupin who gave them the details.
“Charlie was under imperius curse” said Lupin
“Don’t worry! He will be alright” added Mr.Weasley
“And what about Bill?” asked Ron.
“He is in St.Mungo’s. He had hit himself so badly”
“Any death eaters caught?” asked Hermione
“Fenrir Greyback was caught. Thanks to Harry”
“Thanks to Ron” said Harry with a smile. He was happy that none were injured. That evening Harry called Ron and Hermione to his bedroom.
“Fred and George arrived” Ron said as he sat on the bed.
“Harry, what you called us for?”
“I should have expected it” said Harry faintly.
“Yes Harry. But now nothing happened”
“They attacked inside the mass hall. How could they do that?” asked Ron.
“It’s a matter of time before they plan another attack” said Harry raising his voice.
“I can see what you are thinking Harry” said Hermione patting Harry’s shoulders.
“We should wait no more” Harry almost shouted.
Hermione stopped patting. Ron was looking at Harry.
“Enough of waiting. Its time for revenge” said Harry. Ron nodded approvingly. Hermione was pleased rather taken aback.
“We are starting our work tomorrow”
Ron nodded again. Hermione said, “Not until we are prepared Harry”
“Its time to get on Snape’s banned work”
Ron said, “We have to know where the horcruxes are hidden”
“We will find out. Quentin is going to help me”
Ron had no idea what Harry meant. He just nodded in approval.
”The Death Eaters have just meddled with the Dumbledore’s Army”
Chapter 4 : Getting Started
The next week at the Burrow was too busy for everyone. Even Fred and George were busy with some work. Tonks and Lupin were not there. They had left. Harry and Hermione were made to do nothing, as they were their guests. Bill and Charlie were repeatedly absent from home. Mr.Weasley was however busy with his work. Mrs.Weasley went frequently to Diagon Alley to buy some stuff for the wedding ceremony. Fleur and Gabrielle made some decorations for the home. They both sometimes sing at night to entertain the people at home. Ginny clapped along with others that Harry thought she did unwillingly.
“How did I sing Haary?” asked Gabrielle.
“Yes, very good” Harry replied and smiled.
Gabrielle’s went red and so did Ginny almost matching her hair.
“His name is not Haary. It is Harry”
“I am sorry” replied Gabrielle with her innocent expression.
“She will correct herself” Fleur came for defense.
“Whatever” Ginny said and left the hall.
For the entire week Ginny had trouble with Gabrielle. Once in an occasion, she slipped her teacup thus spoiling her clothes. Once she tripped her with her feet. But she had a ready-made answer for it “I am sorry”
“Has Ginny gone mad?” asked Ron as they met at Harry’s room.
“I don’t know” replied Harry as he was wondering about something else.
“No she is not Harry” said Hermione “I guess its because of Gabrielle”
“Gabrielle?”
“Yes, Gabrielle. I think you need to spend more time with Ginny”
“Yes I am. How long do you suppose me to stay with Ginny? I am with her almost all the time”
“Yes you are” said Ron and he left the room as Mrs.Weasley called him.
“Yes you are, Harry. Try to praise Ginny”
“Dumb things girls want” said Harry angrily.
At the dining table, Harry made no attempts to look at Ginny or Gabrielle as both were looking at him at times. There was complete silence. Harry thought the hall was silent because Fred and George weren’t there. They had gone for duty, which Mrs.Weasley proudly said. However Mr.Weasley broke the silence,
“How about apparation tests tomorrow boys?”
“Yes that is great dad” said Ron
“How about you Harry?”
“Brilliant Mr.Weasley”
The next morning, Harry and Ron got ready for the apparation test. It was too early. They got ready at 6. All the three were in muggle clothes. Mr.Weasley made no delay. Mrs.Weasley cooked them some quick breakfast. Harry quickly ate his share of bacon and eggs. Gabrielle woke up early and wished Harry. Harry thanked her that made her blush.
They walked up to the underground station and boarded an underground train that rattled them off towards the center of London. Ron was staring amazingly at the train and the way the stile swallowed their tickets.
They walked again till they reached a place that contained shabby looking offices, a pub and an overflowing skip.
Mr.Weasley opened the telephone-box door and led them both inside. They were completely jam packed inside. Mr.Weasley picked up the receiver and dialed six… two.. Four.. Four.. Two. As the dial swirled back into place, a female voice( which made Ron jump) sounded inside the telephone box.
“Welcome to the Ministry of Magic. Please state your name and business”
“Arthur Weasley, Head of the Office for the Detection and Confiscation of Counterfeit Defensive Spells and Protective Objects, here to escort and Harry Potter and Ronald Weasley who have come to attend the apparation test”
“Thank you visitors” said the female voice “Please take your badges and attach it to the front of your robes”
Harry and Ron picked up the badges that came out of the metal chute and pinned it to their shirts.
“Visitors to the Ministry, you are required to submit a search and present your wand for the registration at the security desk, which is located at the far end of the Atrium”
The telephone box made its way down through the earth.
“The Ministry of Magic wishes you a pleasant day” said the woman’s voice again.
“I wish the woman speaks to us directly face-to-face. Her voice is cool. I bet she will be cool as her voice.” whispered Ron.
Harry giggled and they passed the group of golden statues and then handed over their wands to a security named Eric and they entered the lift. The lift ascended slowly and the lift stopped somewhere and the same female voice spoke
"Level Seven, Department of Magical Games and Sports, incorporating the British and
Irish Quidditch League Headquarters, Official Gobstones Club and Ludicrous Patents
Office."
Several wizards made their way out and some entered. The lift ascended again and this time they stopped at their destination.
"Level Six, Department of Magical Transportation, incorporating the Floo Network
Authority, Broom Regulatory Control, Portkey Office and Apparation Test Centre."
Mr.Weasley, Ron and Harry made their way out of the lift and reached a place where the board said ‘Apparation Test Centre’
“Go on Harry and Ron. All the best to both of you” said Mr.Weasley and gestured a thumbs-up at both of them.
They entered the test hall. It was quite big and huge and Wilkie Tycross was there inspecting some students and some wizards and witches. Seamus Finnigan was also there. “Hi Harry and Ron” beamed Seamus
“Hi” said both and made no more speech.
Harry passed the apparation at an instant. He wondered whether Ron could make through the test. But Ron made it successfully. Wilkie congratulated them and asked them to collect their certificates from a shabby looking wizard. They both collected their certificates and headed outside. Mr.Weasley was waiting for them and he was talking to Rufus Scrimgeour.
“Mr.Potter it is indeed a pleasure in meeting you again” said Rufus Scrimgeour
“Thanks. Mr.Weasley shall we leave?” Harry said not taking those words from Scrimgeour
All the three left the Ministry and immediately went to the burrow. Gabrielle was once again the first to congratulate Harry. She gave hands to Harry that made him swirl inside. All this happened in front of Ginny and she stared at Harry as if she could read his inner reactions to Gabrielle.
“I knew you could make it” said Ginny.
“Hey is there no one to wish me?” Ron said who was observing all this with a sigh.
“Congrats Ron” said Gabrielle in a French accent that Harry thought he found out just now.
“Thanks” said Ron with a wide smile giving his hands expecting her to do the same. But Gabrielle backed off not noticing what he did.
Mrs.Weasley prepared them a good lunch for their achievement that she considered it so. Bill and Fleur congratulated him, as did Fred and George. Harry decided the thing that he was thinking for the past few days should be done the next day.
“Fred, may I come to your shop tomorrow to help you?” asked Harry with a grin.
“No Harry we can manage it” said Fred.
“Please”
“Mom won’t allow you” said George.
“I will ask her”
He somehow persuaded Mrs.Weasley with the condition that Fred and George were to accompany him all the time.
“No, not you Ron” said Mrs.Weasley when he made a hand gesture that he too wanted to join Harry.
Hermione and Ginny were talking with Gabrielle, which seemed odd to Harry.
The next day Harry, Fred and George went together to Diagon Alley through the Floo Network. For good reasons, Harry had taken his invisibility cloak along with him. Harry was not too good at the Floo network. The first time he used it to go to Diagon Alley, he ended up at Knockturn Alley. But this time he pronounced it correctly and he ended up at Diagon Alley right at Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes. Harry found himself dirty just half-an-hour after bath.
“Enjoy yourself here, Harry” said Fred
“Take this badge” said George and handed him a staff badge.
“Accesso momentum” said George pointing his wand at the door and the door opened. The streets were empty as it was too early for customers to arrive. All the three had a face wash and just then the two staffs arrived. One was the girl whom he had seen last year. Another was a pretty Asian girl whom he assumed was an Indian.
After two or three busy hours, the lunch hour came and the customers were not to be seen much. Just then Harry thought the time has come for him and he asked Fred to accompany him outside.
“What do you want to do outside?” asked Fred suspiciously
“Nothing. I just want to buy some stuffs” replied Harry which came out of his mouth as he was not sure what he should reply.
“Ok I will come with you” said Fred and then pointing his hands towards George said “Take care of the shop George. I will be right back”
Harry put the invisibility cloak around himself when none were seeing.
“What is that for?” asked Fred
“I want no one to see me” replied Harry.
“You better stay close with me or we will lose each other” said George as they were heading down the streets.
“Where are we going?” asked Fred.
“Flourish & Blott’s”
They entered the shop that was too empty with just a single customer. Fred stared around making gestures of a customer.
“Ha Mr.Weasley. Welcome“
“Yes thank you”.
“What book do you want?” Fred added to Harry.
“The best ever book of defensive spells” Harry whispered.
“What? Why do you want that book?”
“A stuff I might need”
Fred told the shopkeeper that he needed a defensive book, the best of its kind. The shopkeeper looked at Fred suspiciously but did not make any more questions and got him two books both equally heavy
“Do you want both?” asked the shopkeeper. Fred nodded.
“That would cost six galleons”
Fred then said that he needed another book for Magical Injuries. As the shopkeeper went to get the book, Harry immediately handed over six galleons from his pocket to Fred and they got the book and paid only for the defense books and headed outside.
“Alright then, we shall go to our shop now, shall we?” asked Fred
“No, not so soon” Harry replied and took Fred towards the Gringotts bank and took some money from his account.
“Who is the author of the book?” asked Harry after they headed out of Gringotts.
Fred looked at the book and read “The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Tremble”
“What about the other book?”
“Defense Academy by Scrimgeour”
Harry was shocked to hear that. But he didn’t make any other word.
“Where are we going now?”
“Knockturn Alley”
“What?” Fred was amused “Are you crazy? Even I have never gone there before”
“I have gone there twice. This time I will guide you”
Fred did not make any word and there was complete silence as they entered the Knockturn Alley. The street was narrow and Harry found a shop that would suit his needs. It was “Lisy’s Dark Needs”.
“Here we enter. This is a book shop” said Harry.
“You seem to know much of Knockturn Alley” beamed Fred.
They entered the shop that was too lonely with no customers and there was a lady aged around thirty. The furniture of the shop was too old but they have been newly painted. The lady whom Harry assumed to be Lisy had a sharp pointed nose and was quite slim with dark hair and walked as if she had a limp on her right leg.
“May I help you sir?” she told Fred, as she could not see Harry. Her voice was too girlish much like Dolores Umbridge.
“I am just looking around” replied Fred.
“Harry, what do you want this time?” whispered Fred.
“Book of Dark Spells and Jinxes, the best of its kind”
“What?” shouted Fred, this time forgetting that he should have whispered.
“Yes. Maintain silence please” said Lisy. “What book do you want?”
“Book of Dark Spells and Jinxes, the best of its kind” George said imitating Harry.
“May I know your reasons why you need that book?” Lisy enquired suspiciously.
Fred thought of an answer quickly and said, “I own a shop at Diagon Alley” and showed Lisy his card “I may need it to make some of my joke items”
“Ok I will get it for you” still having a suspicious look at Fred “That would be eight galleons” and she went inside.
Harry quickly passed on eight galleons into Fred’s pocket.
“This is the only book left of the once best selling edition” said Lisy and handed over a dusty book.
They paid for the book and rushed out of Knockturn Alley fearing that anyone would see Fred.
Harry removed his cloak once he got inside the shop that this time had begin to flood with customers.
“Harry what you want that book for?” asked Fred now George listening to them “People will think you are mad if they see you having those books”
“I don’t want anyone to see them”
The night time arrived and they returned to the Burrow hiding the books away from Mrs.Weasley. Harry quickly went to his room and hid the books. They had a quiet dinner and Harry gestured Ron and Hermione to come to his room. Ginny gave a questioned look at Harry. Harry replied with a smile wondering how to react.
All the three entered the room and closed the door and Harry immediately revealed the books to Ron and Hermione.
“Brilliant! How did you get those?” asked Ron with his usual surprising stare.
“Fred helped me get them”
“Harry, you are not supposed to have those books. Those are dangerous” Hermione dripped into the conversation.
Harry cast her a look that made her change her words.
“Harry, listen. What are you going to do with these books?” said Hermione
“These might be useful for dueling with Voldemort and his cronies”
Ron hiccoughed at the name of Voldemort and laughed at those final words from Harry.
“But Harry, why do you need the Book of Dark Spells?”
“To block a dark spell, we need to know its effect and its power. So I thought this book would be useful too”
“But Harry, did you look at the author?”
Harry quickly read the name of the author “Severus Snape”. Harry’s stomach made a flipper upside down as he read the name. It was once a best selling book. It was too old. Harry opened and looked at the year of publishing, the book had been written twenty years before. Snape had a long time fascination for Dark Spells. But he had never thought he would have written a book for it. Indeed he was the one who had written all the dark spells in the Potions Book, which he had last year.
“This may find to be useful too when I am dueling with him”
“And who are these two authors?” asked Ron
“Quentin Trimble, a very good author and…” paused Hermione
“Scrimgeour” Harry said breaking the pause “Do you think that is Rufus Scrimgeour?”
“No idea” replied Hermione.
“How are you going to find the horcruxes Harry?”
“I have no idea. I will think about it later”
“Be careful Harry. You may lose your life” Hermione said with a hemione-ish look.
“Yes I will. I will fight even if it costs my life”
“Then I will fight too” came a voice from nowhere.
The door opened and someone was standing in the doorway. Harry was shocked to see the person who had overheard the conversation, and who had extendable ears in her hands. It was Ginny Weasley.
“How did I sing Haary?” asked Gabrielle.
“Yes, very good” Harry replied and smiled.
Gabrielle’s went red and so did Ginny almost matching her hair.
“His name is not Haary. It is Harry”
“I am sorry” replied Gabrielle with her innocent expression.
“She will correct herself” Fleur came for defense.
“Whatever” Ginny said and left the hall.
For the entire week Ginny had trouble with Gabrielle. Once in an occasion, she slipped her teacup thus spoiling her clothes. Once she tripped her with her feet. But she had a ready-made answer for it “I am sorry”
“Has Ginny gone mad?” asked Ron as they met at Harry’s room.
“I don’t know” replied Harry as he was wondering about something else.
“No she is not Harry” said Hermione “I guess its because of Gabrielle”
“Gabrielle?”
“Yes, Gabrielle. I think you need to spend more time with Ginny”
“Yes I am. How long do you suppose me to stay with Ginny? I am with her almost all the time”
“Yes you are” said Ron and he left the room as Mrs.Weasley called him.
“Yes you are, Harry. Try to praise Ginny”
“Dumb things girls want” said Harry angrily.
At the dining table, Harry made no attempts to look at Ginny or Gabrielle as both were looking at him at times. There was complete silence. Harry thought the hall was silent because Fred and George weren’t there. They had gone for duty, which Mrs.Weasley proudly said. However Mr.Weasley broke the silence,
“How about apparation tests tomorrow boys?”
“Yes that is great dad” said Ron
“How about you Harry?”
“Brilliant Mr.Weasley”
The next morning, Harry and Ron got ready for the apparation test. It was too early. They got ready at 6. All the three were in muggle clothes. Mr.Weasley made no delay. Mrs.Weasley cooked them some quick breakfast. Harry quickly ate his share of bacon and eggs. Gabrielle woke up early and wished Harry. Harry thanked her that made her blush.
They walked up to the underground station and boarded an underground train that rattled them off towards the center of London. Ron was staring amazingly at the train and the way the stile swallowed their tickets.
They walked again till they reached a place that contained shabby looking offices, a pub and an overflowing skip.
Mr.Weasley opened the telephone-box door and led them both inside. They were completely jam packed inside. Mr.Weasley picked up the receiver and dialed six… two.. Four.. Four.. Two. As the dial swirled back into place, a female voice( which made Ron jump) sounded inside the telephone box.
“Welcome to the Ministry of Magic. Please state your name and business”
“Arthur Weasley, Head of the Office for the Detection and Confiscation of Counterfeit Defensive Spells and Protective Objects, here to escort and Harry Potter and Ronald Weasley who have come to attend the apparation test”
“Thank you visitors” said the female voice “Please take your badges and attach it to the front of your robes”
Harry and Ron picked up the badges that came out of the metal chute and pinned it to their shirts.
“Visitors to the Ministry, you are required to submit a search and present your wand for the registration at the security desk, which is located at the far end of the Atrium”
The telephone box made its way down through the earth.
“The Ministry of Magic wishes you a pleasant day” said the woman’s voice again.
“I wish the woman speaks to us directly face-to-face. Her voice is cool. I bet she will be cool as her voice.” whispered Ron.
Harry giggled and they passed the group of golden statues and then handed over their wands to a security named Eric and they entered the lift. The lift ascended slowly and the lift stopped somewhere and the same female voice spoke
"Level Seven, Department of Magical Games and Sports, incorporating the British and
Irish Quidditch League Headquarters, Official Gobstones Club and Ludicrous Patents
Office."
Several wizards made their way out and some entered. The lift ascended again and this time they stopped at their destination.
"Level Six, Department of Magical Transportation, incorporating the Floo Network
Authority, Broom Regulatory Control, Portkey Office and Apparation Test Centre."
Mr.Weasley, Ron and Harry made their way out of the lift and reached a place where the board said ‘Apparation Test Centre’
“Go on Harry and Ron. All the best to both of you” said Mr.Weasley and gestured a thumbs-up at both of them.
They entered the test hall. It was quite big and huge and Wilkie Tycross was there inspecting some students and some wizards and witches. Seamus Finnigan was also there. “Hi Harry and Ron” beamed Seamus
“Hi” said both and made no more speech.
Harry passed the apparation at an instant. He wondered whether Ron could make through the test. But Ron made it successfully. Wilkie congratulated them and asked them to collect their certificates from a shabby looking wizard. They both collected their certificates and headed outside. Mr.Weasley was waiting for them and he was talking to Rufus Scrimgeour.
“Mr.Potter it is indeed a pleasure in meeting you again” said Rufus Scrimgeour
“Thanks. Mr.Weasley shall we leave?” Harry said not taking those words from Scrimgeour
All the three left the Ministry and immediately went to the burrow. Gabrielle was once again the first to congratulate Harry. She gave hands to Harry that made him swirl inside. All this happened in front of Ginny and she stared at Harry as if she could read his inner reactions to Gabrielle.
“I knew you could make it” said Ginny.
“Hey is there no one to wish me?” Ron said who was observing all this with a sigh.
“Congrats Ron” said Gabrielle in a French accent that Harry thought he found out just now.
“Thanks” said Ron with a wide smile giving his hands expecting her to do the same. But Gabrielle backed off not noticing what he did.
Mrs.Weasley prepared them a good lunch for their achievement that she considered it so. Bill and Fleur congratulated him, as did Fred and George. Harry decided the thing that he was thinking for the past few days should be done the next day.
“Fred, may I come to your shop tomorrow to help you?” asked Harry with a grin.
“No Harry we can manage it” said Fred.
“Please”
“Mom won’t allow you” said George.
“I will ask her”
He somehow persuaded Mrs.Weasley with the condition that Fred and George were to accompany him all the time.
“No, not you Ron” said Mrs.Weasley when he made a hand gesture that he too wanted to join Harry.
Hermione and Ginny were talking with Gabrielle, which seemed odd to Harry.
The next day Harry, Fred and George went together to Diagon Alley through the Floo Network. For good reasons, Harry had taken his invisibility cloak along with him. Harry was not too good at the Floo network. The first time he used it to go to Diagon Alley, he ended up at Knockturn Alley. But this time he pronounced it correctly and he ended up at Diagon Alley right at Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes. Harry found himself dirty just half-an-hour after bath.
“Enjoy yourself here, Harry” said Fred
“Take this badge” said George and handed him a staff badge.
“Accesso momentum” said George pointing his wand at the door and the door opened. The streets were empty as it was too early for customers to arrive. All the three had a face wash and just then the two staffs arrived. One was the girl whom he had seen last year. Another was a pretty Asian girl whom he assumed was an Indian.
After two or three busy hours, the lunch hour came and the customers were not to be seen much. Just then Harry thought the time has come for him and he asked Fred to accompany him outside.
“What do you want to do outside?” asked Fred suspiciously
“Nothing. I just want to buy some stuffs” replied Harry which came out of his mouth as he was not sure what he should reply.
“Ok I will come with you” said Fred and then pointing his hands towards George said “Take care of the shop George. I will be right back”
Harry put the invisibility cloak around himself when none were seeing.
“What is that for?” asked Fred
“I want no one to see me” replied Harry.
“You better stay close with me or we will lose each other” said George as they were heading down the streets.
“Where are we going?” asked Fred.
“Flourish & Blott’s”
They entered the shop that was too empty with just a single customer. Fred stared around making gestures of a customer.
“Ha Mr.Weasley. Welcome“
“Yes thank you”.
“What book do you want?” Fred added to Harry.
“The best ever book of defensive spells” Harry whispered.
“What? Why do you want that book?”
“A stuff I might need”
Fred told the shopkeeper that he needed a defensive book, the best of its kind. The shopkeeper looked at Fred suspiciously but did not make any more questions and got him two books both equally heavy
“Do you want both?” asked the shopkeeper. Fred nodded.
“That would cost six galleons”
Fred then said that he needed another book for Magical Injuries. As the shopkeeper went to get the book, Harry immediately handed over six galleons from his pocket to Fred and they got the book and paid only for the defense books and headed outside.
“Alright then, we shall go to our shop now, shall we?” asked Fred
“No, not so soon” Harry replied and took Fred towards the Gringotts bank and took some money from his account.
“Who is the author of the book?” asked Harry after they headed out of Gringotts.
Fred looked at the book and read “The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Tremble”
“What about the other book?”
“Defense Academy by Scrimgeour”
Harry was shocked to hear that. But he didn’t make any other word.
“Where are we going now?”
“Knockturn Alley”
“What?” Fred was amused “Are you crazy? Even I have never gone there before”
“I have gone there twice. This time I will guide you”
Fred did not make any word and there was complete silence as they entered the Knockturn Alley. The street was narrow and Harry found a shop that would suit his needs. It was “Lisy’s Dark Needs”.
“Here we enter. This is a book shop” said Harry.
“You seem to know much of Knockturn Alley” beamed Fred.
They entered the shop that was too lonely with no customers and there was a lady aged around thirty. The furniture of the shop was too old but they have been newly painted. The lady whom Harry assumed to be Lisy had a sharp pointed nose and was quite slim with dark hair and walked as if she had a limp on her right leg.
“May I help you sir?” she told Fred, as she could not see Harry. Her voice was too girlish much like Dolores Umbridge.
“I am just looking around” replied Fred.
“Harry, what do you want this time?” whispered Fred.
“Book of Dark Spells and Jinxes, the best of its kind”
“What?” shouted Fred, this time forgetting that he should have whispered.
“Yes. Maintain silence please” said Lisy. “What book do you want?”
“Book of Dark Spells and Jinxes, the best of its kind” George said imitating Harry.
“May I know your reasons why you need that book?” Lisy enquired suspiciously.
Fred thought of an answer quickly and said, “I own a shop at Diagon Alley” and showed Lisy his card “I may need it to make some of my joke items”
“Ok I will get it for you” still having a suspicious look at Fred “That would be eight galleons” and she went inside.
Harry quickly passed on eight galleons into Fred’s pocket.
“This is the only book left of the once best selling edition” said Lisy and handed over a dusty book.
They paid for the book and rushed out of Knockturn Alley fearing that anyone would see Fred.
Harry removed his cloak once he got inside the shop that this time had begin to flood with customers.
“Harry what you want that book for?” asked Fred now George listening to them “People will think you are mad if they see you having those books”
“I don’t want anyone to see them”
The night time arrived and they returned to the Burrow hiding the books away from Mrs.Weasley. Harry quickly went to his room and hid the books. They had a quiet dinner and Harry gestured Ron and Hermione to come to his room. Ginny gave a questioned look at Harry. Harry replied with a smile wondering how to react.
All the three entered the room and closed the door and Harry immediately revealed the books to Ron and Hermione.
“Brilliant! How did you get those?” asked Ron with his usual surprising stare.
“Fred helped me get them”
“Harry, you are not supposed to have those books. Those are dangerous” Hermione dripped into the conversation.
Harry cast her a look that made her change her words.
“Harry, listen. What are you going to do with these books?” said Hermione
“These might be useful for dueling with Voldemort and his cronies”
Ron hiccoughed at the name of Voldemort and laughed at those final words from Harry.
“But Harry, why do you need the Book of Dark Spells?”
“To block a dark spell, we need to know its effect and its power. So I thought this book would be useful too”
“But Harry, did you look at the author?”
Harry quickly read the name of the author “Severus Snape”. Harry’s stomach made a flipper upside down as he read the name. It was once a best selling book. It was too old. Harry opened and looked at the year of publishing, the book had been written twenty years before. Snape had a long time fascination for Dark Spells. But he had never thought he would have written a book for it. Indeed he was the one who had written all the dark spells in the Potions Book, which he had last year.
“This may find to be useful too when I am dueling with him”
“And who are these two authors?” asked Ron
“Quentin Trimble, a very good author and…” paused Hermione
“Scrimgeour” Harry said breaking the pause “Do you think that is Rufus Scrimgeour?”
“No idea” replied Hermione.
“How are you going to find the horcruxes Harry?”
“I have no idea. I will think about it later”
“Be careful Harry. You may lose your life” Hermione said with a hemione-ish look.
“Yes I will. I will fight even if it costs my life”
“Then I will fight too” came a voice from nowhere.
The door opened and someone was standing in the doorway. Harry was shocked to see the person who had overheard the conversation, and who had extendable ears in her hands. It was Ginny Weasley.
Chapter 3 : Birthday Surprises
Harry knocked on the door. Mrs.Weasley answered it. As they entered inside, Mrs.Weasley welcomed Harry with a hug. Bill did the same with Fleur. His face was kind of alright now except his face was not as the same as before. Ginny was standing near the staircase as she did the first time he came to their house. She was smiling at Harry. Everyone were having their dinner. Harry was hungry and joined Hermione and Ron at the dinner table. It was as usual. But Harry preferred Cabbage soup. Ron exclaimed, “Bloody hell! How was the trip?”
“Yes it was fine but” said Harry and he explained the whole thing about fake Lupin to him.
“So you think its Fenrir Greyback?”, asked Hermione.
“Yes”, Harry nodded.
“How can he be there?” asked Ron.
“No idea”
“Do you need another helping dear?”, asked Mrs.Weasley
“No thanks”, responded Harry immediately.
Ginny was looking at Harry and Harry felt bad that he did not have a talk with Ginny.
“Ginny had your dinner?”, he asked since he had nothing else to ask.
“Yes, two gnomes”, replied Ginny with an angry look.
Harry tried not to laugh. After eating he left the dining table and went to his room saying that he has some things to sort out. He went inside his room that was supposed to be Fred and George’s room. He had a glimpse of his trunks that was already brought up there. He heard a click at the door and found out that it was Ginny. Ginny caught Harry and kissed him.
Ginny said, “I see the chosen one not having time to speak with his chosen one”
Harry said, “I am sorry Ginny. I didn’t mean to. I can’t speak to you normally in front of your parents”
“But you did every time!”
“But that time I was not going out with you”, interrupted Harry.
They both kissed again and stopped immediately when the door opened. Ron came in along with Hermione.
“So that was the thing you wanted to sort out. snogging!” laughed Ron.
“I would have appreciated if you had knocked on the door Ron”, replied Ginny.
“And I will appreciate it if you leave this room so that we can have a private moment with Harry”, said Ron.
Ginny looked at Harry for defense that Harry would consider her as the first person to talk privately. Harry had no answer.
Ginny however replied, “I will stay. Harry wouldn’t like me to leave”
Hermione gave Harry a send-Ginny-away look.
Harry said, “Ginny we can have a chat later”
Ginny looked as if she was petrified. She went out and slammed the door behind. Harry felt really bad at that.
“Sorry Harry we have to talk to you”, said Ron.
“Its ok. What?”
“You know that Hogwarts is closed this year”
“Not exactly closed. There is a trial taking place to decide about Hogwarts”, said Hermione.
“But I am sure it will be closed this year”, argued Ron
“No the ministry is concerned about their children and their studies.”
Harry got frustrated about this being the topic they wanted to discuss that made him kick out Ginny.
“So?”, said Harry with a frustrated look.
“Harry have you decided about what you told us at school?” asked Hermione
“Yes I have decided about it and I will do it”
“Harry it will be dangerous for..” Hermione gave a pause when Harry cast her a look and continued,”for students like us”
“I don’t care. I am doing it and I don’t want you two to join it”
”Harry we are joining you even if it costs our lives”, said Ron.
Harry gave them both a glimpse as if he is seeing them for the first time and said, “I will think about it”
“Harry one more thing we got to talk about”, said Ron
“What?” said Harry.
“Its Bill’s wedding”
Harry had forgotten about it, not really, but he didn’t have it in his mind.
“When?”
“A week after your birthday”
“Ok. What is the condition of Bill?”
“Normal. We didn’t see any bad effects till now”, said Hermione
“Mom says that there is nothing to worry about”, said Ron.
“Yes” replied Hermione with an unsure look.
“Fred and George are coming tomorrow” said Ron.
“That’s great” said Harry
“Harry we can have apparition tests soon”
“When?”
“I will let you know when my dad comes. He still has not got back from his office”
“Ok”
“Goodnight Hary” both said.
Harry slept well for the first time in the summer holidays. He woke up early in the morning. He went down to see Lupin. Tonks was with him. Mad-eye Moody was gone.
“Hello Harry. Good morning”, said Lupin.
“Good morning! Professor Lupin” said Harry.
“Sir did you think about what I said yesterday night”?
“Yes I did Harry and I think he got my hair when I went to the diagon alley”
“Yes what happened?”
“One guy was keen on my hair and was talking about it being dull and that it needed some lotion to grow back. He would have taken it that time”
“Do you too think that its Fenrir..?”
“Yes Harry I think its him”
Arthur Weasley came inside the house. Harry was sure that he was in the garden. He gave Harry a smile. “How are you doing Harry?” asked Weasley
“Yes fine Mr.Weasley”
“Go on have your breakfast Harry”
Harry had his breakfast with Ron, Hermione and Ginny. Ginny was still sad about the incident the previous night and didn’t talk to Harry. However Harry tried to talk to Ginny.
“Ginny care for a walk with me?”
“No”
Ron gave a laugh at this. Ginny left the dining table and sat in a chair that was distant from the dining table with her hands on her chin. Hermione frowned at Ron. The day passed on so soon.
That evening Fred and George arrived. They gave Ginny and Charlie a weird look as both of them were sad about something.
“Hello Harry, having a good time?”, asked Fred.
“Yes I think so” replied Harry.
“Ron can’t find his good time I guess, isn’t it Ginny?” said George
Harry was sure George was trying to cheer her up. But it turned out to be worse when Ron spoke.
“Yes surely not as hers. She is missing her five boyfriends”
Ginny got up and went upstairs.
Hermione yelled “Stop it Ron!”
Harry gave Ron a bad look for which Ron gave an apologizing look.
“What is the noice over here?”, said Mrs.Weasley who just came out of the kitchen.
“Fred and George, when did you two come? I didn’t notice you coming”
“Too bad you haven’t mother. Where are the to-be couples?”
“They have gone out for shopping”
Fred and George turned at Harry “ I guess I am right tomorrow is your birthday We have got a wonderful present for you.” Said Fred.
“Oh! Professor Lupin is here. I didn’t see them and Tonks too” said George.
“Too bad you haven’t” said Tonks imitating George.
Harry was happy that Tonks had come back to her true self, cheerful as ever. The last year she looked so dull and looked as if she would cry anytime if she got a chance. But this time she was cheerful and vibrant now being with Lupin.
That night Fleur and Bill returned. Harry wondered about Bill’s face. It was full of stitches and he felt bad about it. He tried to talk to Ginny but she didn’t respond so he left straight to his bed.
When he woke up he found Ron and Hermione waiting with some presents. They both wished him and gave Harry their presents. He opened them up quickly and found that Hermione had given him an armor that looked much like a soldier’s wear.
“Its good against jinxes Harry” said Hermione with a wink.
Ron’s present was a shielding hat. He had seen it in Weasley Wizard’s Wheezes last year.
“I got it from Fred and George’s shop”
Harry knew both does the same work and good against jinxes and spells but he knew that it doesn’t work much and he shouldn’t rely on it. But he thanked them and asked, “Where is Ginny?”
“She was the first one to come here Harry. But she left when Ron came” said Hermione.
Harry gave Ron a questioned look.
“No I didn’t say anything” answered Ron at Harry’s questioned look.
“Go and meet her Harry” said Hermione.
Hermione was pretty good in giving advices and so he listened. He went out to meet Ginny and he found her near her room. Ginny this time didn’t ignore Harry. She just looked down. Harry went up to her and asked “Aren’t there any presents from my girl?”
Ginny said “Yes Harry. I just wanted to give it to you alone when no one is watching us.” She gave a gift box to Harry. Harry knelt down and opened the box to find a miniature doll of Ginny and another of himself holding their hands and dancing to some sweet tunes.
“Harry this will let you know how I feel of you. This miniature Ginny doll will change her expressions according to mine. Happy Birthday to you Harry”.
Harry could see the miniature Ginny smiling at the miniature Harry. He smiled at Ginny.
“This is the best gift I got today” said Harry much to Ginny’s pleasure.
“But this is advance magic. How did you do that?” questioned Harry.
“I asked Fred and George to do it for me” said Ginny.
“Do they know about our...?”
“Yes we know everythin Harry” came in two voices. It was Fred and George.
“Yes they know” confirmed Ginny, “But can’t we two have privacy here in our own house?”
“Yes you can Ginny. But too bad we had our extendable ears with us” laughed George
“Happy Birthday Harry”, said Fred.
“Oh! Yes Happy Birthday” said George, “Fred can you do the honor?”
“Yes brother” Fred took out a funnel like rubber thing that was so small.
“This Harry” said George pointing out at the thing Fred took out from his pocket, “is EVD”
When Harry and Ginny gazed weird looks at them, Fred continued “Extendable Voice Device. We created it this year and it was a success.”
“What does it do?” enquired Harry.
“Like the extendable ears, you can throw your voice anywhere Harry. But you have limits in using it. You can throw it out into the entire room or the entire hall if you are strong at it”
Ginny was pleased and applauded. Her applause was silenced by a loud cheer downstairs. Harry thanked the Weasley twins and put the EVD in his mouth.
He entered the room again to find Ron and Hermione chatting to each other.
“Did you meet her Harry?” asked Hermione
“Yes I have” boomed a voice inside the room.
“Who spoke that?” asked Hermione with a frightened look.
“I did” said Harry taking the EVD out of his mouth.
“That’s great Harry! I bet Fred and George gave it” said Hermione.
:”Yes”
“For one moment I thought this room was haunted” said Ron. Harry and Hermione laughed.
“Did Ginny give you any present Harry?”
“Yes she did” said Harry hiding the gift inside his shirt, “I will show you both later”
Just then an owl came and Harry quickly removed the parcel it was holding. It was from Hagrid. Hagrid as usual sent rock hard homemade cake. Harry had a feeling not to eat it that time as he was sure that something special is awaiting for him downstairs for him to eat.
Harry went downstairs to find Ginny looking astonished. She really looked as if she was petrified this time. He thought Fleur would have been the cause as she was standing next to her. Everyone wished Harry one by one. Even though Charlie had wished him, he had a sad look on his face. Bill and Fleur were the final ones to wish.
“ ‘Arry we got a surprise for you” Then a young girl with silvery hair much like Fleur came out of the kitchen doorway. The last time Harry saw her she seemed like she was a 8 year old. This time she seemed like a 15 year old. Her breath taking beauty filled the entire room. She walked up to Fleur and did not dare look up at Harry.
“’Arry this is Gabrielle.... do you remember her?”
“Hi Gabrielle” said Harry not avoiding Gabrielle's eyes and not hearing what Fleur said.
“Hi Haary” said Gabrielle.
Gabrielle moved towards Harry almost sweeping off the air as she moved. She came to Harry and gave him a present. It was a fine art work. There were mermen and a girl tied with ropes to a stone. A boy was there who was shown fighting the mermen. Harry knew what it depicted. It was the second task he played at the Triwizard Tournament when he saved Ron, Hermione, Cho Chang and Gabrielle Delacour.
“I made it myself” said Gabrielle
“Thanks” said Harry.
“She learnt ‘eenglish quickly unlike me” said Fleur.
Gabrielle moved off bringing in live air to Harry. The next moment he saw Ginny and she was forcing a smile. He turned back to see Ron and Hermione facing them. Ron gave a fake smile and Hermione was forcing a smile as Ginny. Harry had really great surprises for his birthday. Harry saw Fred and George give a smug look and did not bother to look at them again.
“Time to spot some breakfast birthday boy” said Mrs.Weasley. Harry then began to wonder whether he is celebrating his final birthday and wondered whether he would be alive to see his next birthday.
“Yes it was fine but” said Harry and he explained the whole thing about fake Lupin to him.
“So you think its Fenrir Greyback?”, asked Hermione.
“Yes”, Harry nodded.
“How can he be there?” asked Ron.
“No idea”
“Do you need another helping dear?”, asked Mrs.Weasley
“No thanks”, responded Harry immediately.
Ginny was looking at Harry and Harry felt bad that he did not have a talk with Ginny.
“Ginny had your dinner?”, he asked since he had nothing else to ask.
“Yes, two gnomes”, replied Ginny with an angry look.
Harry tried not to laugh. After eating he left the dining table and went to his room saying that he has some things to sort out. He went inside his room that was supposed to be Fred and George’s room. He had a glimpse of his trunks that was already brought up there. He heard a click at the door and found out that it was Ginny. Ginny caught Harry and kissed him.
Ginny said, “I see the chosen one not having time to speak with his chosen one”
Harry said, “I am sorry Ginny. I didn’t mean to. I can’t speak to you normally in front of your parents”
“But you did every time!”
“But that time I was not going out with you”, interrupted Harry.
They both kissed again and stopped immediately when the door opened. Ron came in along with Hermione.
“So that was the thing you wanted to sort out. snogging!” laughed Ron.
“I would have appreciated if you had knocked on the door Ron”, replied Ginny.
“And I will appreciate it if you leave this room so that we can have a private moment with Harry”, said Ron.
Ginny looked at Harry for defense that Harry would consider her as the first person to talk privately. Harry had no answer.
Ginny however replied, “I will stay. Harry wouldn’t like me to leave”
Hermione gave Harry a send-Ginny-away look.
Harry said, “Ginny we can have a chat later”
Ginny looked as if she was petrified. She went out and slammed the door behind. Harry felt really bad at that.
“Sorry Harry we have to talk to you”, said Ron.
“Its ok. What?”
“You know that Hogwarts is closed this year”
“Not exactly closed. There is a trial taking place to decide about Hogwarts”, said Hermione.
“But I am sure it will be closed this year”, argued Ron
“No the ministry is concerned about their children and their studies.”
Harry got frustrated about this being the topic they wanted to discuss that made him kick out Ginny.
“So?”, said Harry with a frustrated look.
“Harry have you decided about what you told us at school?” asked Hermione
“Yes I have decided about it and I will do it”
“Harry it will be dangerous for..” Hermione gave a pause when Harry cast her a look and continued,”for students like us”
“I don’t care. I am doing it and I don’t want you two to join it”
”Harry we are joining you even if it costs our lives”, said Ron.
Harry gave them both a glimpse as if he is seeing them for the first time and said, “I will think about it”
“Harry one more thing we got to talk about”, said Ron
“What?” said Harry.
“Its Bill’s wedding”
Harry had forgotten about it, not really, but he didn’t have it in his mind.
“When?”
“A week after your birthday”
“Ok. What is the condition of Bill?”
“Normal. We didn’t see any bad effects till now”, said Hermione
“Mom says that there is nothing to worry about”, said Ron.
“Yes” replied Hermione with an unsure look.
“Fred and George are coming tomorrow” said Ron.
“That’s great” said Harry
“Harry we can have apparition tests soon”
“When?”
“I will let you know when my dad comes. He still has not got back from his office”
“Ok”
“Goodnight Hary” both said.
Harry slept well for the first time in the summer holidays. He woke up early in the morning. He went down to see Lupin. Tonks was with him. Mad-eye Moody was gone.
“Hello Harry. Good morning”, said Lupin.
“Good morning! Professor Lupin” said Harry.
“Sir did you think about what I said yesterday night”?
“Yes I did Harry and I think he got my hair when I went to the diagon alley”
“Yes what happened?”
“One guy was keen on my hair and was talking about it being dull and that it needed some lotion to grow back. He would have taken it that time”
“Do you too think that its Fenrir..?”
“Yes Harry I think its him”
Arthur Weasley came inside the house. Harry was sure that he was in the garden. He gave Harry a smile. “How are you doing Harry?” asked Weasley
“Yes fine Mr.Weasley”
“Go on have your breakfast Harry”
Harry had his breakfast with Ron, Hermione and Ginny. Ginny was still sad about the incident the previous night and didn’t talk to Harry. However Harry tried to talk to Ginny.
“Ginny care for a walk with me?”
“No”
Ron gave a laugh at this. Ginny left the dining table and sat in a chair that was distant from the dining table with her hands on her chin. Hermione frowned at Ron. The day passed on so soon.
That evening Fred and George arrived. They gave Ginny and Charlie a weird look as both of them were sad about something.
“Hello Harry, having a good time?”, asked Fred.
“Yes I think so” replied Harry.
“Ron can’t find his good time I guess, isn’t it Ginny?” said George
Harry was sure George was trying to cheer her up. But it turned out to be worse when Ron spoke.
“Yes surely not as hers. She is missing her five boyfriends”
Ginny got up and went upstairs.
Hermione yelled “Stop it Ron!”
Harry gave Ron a bad look for which Ron gave an apologizing look.
“What is the noice over here?”, said Mrs.Weasley who just came out of the kitchen.
“Fred and George, when did you two come? I didn’t notice you coming”
“Too bad you haven’t mother. Where are the to-be couples?”
“They have gone out for shopping”
Fred and George turned at Harry “ I guess I am right tomorrow is your birthday We have got a wonderful present for you.” Said Fred.
“Oh! Professor Lupin is here. I didn’t see them and Tonks too” said George.
“Too bad you haven’t” said Tonks imitating George.
Harry was happy that Tonks had come back to her true self, cheerful as ever. The last year she looked so dull and looked as if she would cry anytime if she got a chance. But this time she was cheerful and vibrant now being with Lupin.
That night Fleur and Bill returned. Harry wondered about Bill’s face. It was full of stitches and he felt bad about it. He tried to talk to Ginny but she didn’t respond so he left straight to his bed.
When he woke up he found Ron and Hermione waiting with some presents. They both wished him and gave Harry their presents. He opened them up quickly and found that Hermione had given him an armor that looked much like a soldier’s wear.
“Its good against jinxes Harry” said Hermione with a wink.
Ron’s present was a shielding hat. He had seen it in Weasley Wizard’s Wheezes last year.
“I got it from Fred and George’s shop”
Harry knew both does the same work and good against jinxes and spells but he knew that it doesn’t work much and he shouldn’t rely on it. But he thanked them and asked, “Where is Ginny?”
“She was the first one to come here Harry. But she left when Ron came” said Hermione.
Harry gave Ron a questioned look.
“No I didn’t say anything” answered Ron at Harry’s questioned look.
“Go and meet her Harry” said Hermione.
Hermione was pretty good in giving advices and so he listened. He went out to meet Ginny and he found her near her room. Ginny this time didn’t ignore Harry. She just looked down. Harry went up to her and asked “Aren’t there any presents from my girl?”
Ginny said “Yes Harry. I just wanted to give it to you alone when no one is watching us.” She gave a gift box to Harry. Harry knelt down and opened the box to find a miniature doll of Ginny and another of himself holding their hands and dancing to some sweet tunes.
“Harry this will let you know how I feel of you. This miniature Ginny doll will change her expressions according to mine. Happy Birthday to you Harry”.
Harry could see the miniature Ginny smiling at the miniature Harry. He smiled at Ginny.
“This is the best gift I got today” said Harry much to Ginny’s pleasure.
“But this is advance magic. How did you do that?” questioned Harry.
“I asked Fred and George to do it for me” said Ginny.
“Do they know about our...?”
“Yes we know everythin Harry” came in two voices. It was Fred and George.
“Yes they know” confirmed Ginny, “But can’t we two have privacy here in our own house?”
“Yes you can Ginny. But too bad we had our extendable ears with us” laughed George
“Happy Birthday Harry”, said Fred.
“Oh! Yes Happy Birthday” said George, “Fred can you do the honor?”
“Yes brother” Fred took out a funnel like rubber thing that was so small.
“This Harry” said George pointing out at the thing Fred took out from his pocket, “is EVD”
When Harry and Ginny gazed weird looks at them, Fred continued “Extendable Voice Device. We created it this year and it was a success.”
“What does it do?” enquired Harry.
“Like the extendable ears, you can throw your voice anywhere Harry. But you have limits in using it. You can throw it out into the entire room or the entire hall if you are strong at it”
Ginny was pleased and applauded. Her applause was silenced by a loud cheer downstairs. Harry thanked the Weasley twins and put the EVD in his mouth.
He entered the room again to find Ron and Hermione chatting to each other.
“Did you meet her Harry?” asked Hermione
“Yes I have” boomed a voice inside the room.
“Who spoke that?” asked Hermione with a frightened look.
“I did” said Harry taking the EVD out of his mouth.
“That’s great Harry! I bet Fred and George gave it” said Hermione.
:”Yes”
“For one moment I thought this room was haunted” said Ron. Harry and Hermione laughed.
“Did Ginny give you any present Harry?”
“Yes she did” said Harry hiding the gift inside his shirt, “I will show you both later”
Just then an owl came and Harry quickly removed the parcel it was holding. It was from Hagrid. Hagrid as usual sent rock hard homemade cake. Harry had a feeling not to eat it that time as he was sure that something special is awaiting for him downstairs for him to eat.
Harry went downstairs to find Ginny looking astonished. She really looked as if she was petrified this time. He thought Fleur would have been the cause as she was standing next to her. Everyone wished Harry one by one. Even though Charlie had wished him, he had a sad look on his face. Bill and Fleur were the final ones to wish.
“ ‘Arry we got a surprise for you” Then a young girl with silvery hair much like Fleur came out of the kitchen doorway. The last time Harry saw her she seemed like she was a 8 year old. This time she seemed like a 15 year old. Her breath taking beauty filled the entire room. She walked up to Fleur and did not dare look up at Harry.
“’Arry this is Gabrielle.... do you remember her?”
“Hi Gabrielle” said Harry not avoiding Gabrielle's eyes and not hearing what Fleur said.
“Hi Haary” said Gabrielle.
Gabrielle moved towards Harry almost sweeping off the air as she moved. She came to Harry and gave him a present. It was a fine art work. There were mermen and a girl tied with ropes to a stone. A boy was there who was shown fighting the mermen. Harry knew what it depicted. It was the second task he played at the Triwizard Tournament when he saved Ron, Hermione, Cho Chang and Gabrielle Delacour.
“I made it myself” said Gabrielle
“Thanks” said Harry.
“She learnt ‘eenglish quickly unlike me” said Fleur.
Gabrielle moved off bringing in live air to Harry. The next moment he saw Ginny and she was forcing a smile. He turned back to see Ron and Hermione facing them. Ron gave a fake smile and Hermione was forcing a smile as Ginny. Harry had really great surprises for his birthday. Harry saw Fred and George give a smug look and did not bother to look at them again.
“Time to spot some breakfast birthday boy” said Mrs.Weasley. Harry then began to wonder whether he is celebrating his final birthday and wondered whether he would be alive to see his next birthday.
Chapter 2 : Good and Evil
“Severus…Please”
“Avada Kedavra”
Harry woke up with a start. His hands were sweating and so were his body.. He had the same dream for the past one week. He couldn’t get enough sleep. Harry knew that he shouldn’t rest until he had done the job, to take revenge. He wanted to leave the place that day. The sun had just risen and Hedwig was not there. He had sent it to Diagon Alley to get a copy of the Daily Prophet last night. Harry felt deeply depressed. He had always liked the feeling of a wizard., the night Hagrid came and told him that he was a wizard. But now he would have been happier with just cleaning up the home.
Hedwig came back with a copy of the Daily Prophet for which he had actually sent it. He read the news that he had been thinking for the past one week, the news about Dumbledore’s death and also there were the words of conflict between the minister and the ex-minister.
‘The Wizards and Witches have now started complaining about the Minister of Magic, Rufus Scrimgour , who replaced Cornelius Fudge last year. They wanted the immediate removal of the new Minister of Magic.
“When I was the minister nothing like this happened. Hogwarts is a school and I can’t imagine death eaters attacking there. This shows the carelessness of the Ministry….”
Said our former minister Cornelius Fudge.
Rufus Scrimgoeur however had a defense to the statement. “I never expected such words from the former minister. This was an accident and no one expected such brainwork from the death eaters. Well shall I point out that a year ago, several death eaters and mere students managed to enter the most secure room of the Ministry of Magic! We are doing our work and this year I shall do the obvious, saving the people. The world comprises of two – the good and the evil. My job here is to eliminate the evil and it is not only the job for me but for all of you. Lets do it together! ” ‘
Harry now had a great respect for him. He didn’t know why. It was maybe because he didn’t like Fudge or maybe because he liked his speech.
. But then he found something interesting. The news about the one man he hated the most – Severus Snape.
‘Ministry has searched the house of the death eater Severus Snape at Spinner’s End where he lives. But they were too late. He had escaped. News confirmed that Snape had been there recently’.
Harry couldn’t understand why the Daily Prophet is turning against the Ministry. But he didn’t care about it and he went on with the news:
‘It is likely that the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizadry will be closed this year owing to the attacks almost a fortnight ago! Professor Minerva McGonagall had a few words to say about this, “It is upon the Ministry to decide”. ‘
Harry wondered of the world without Hogwarts. He had already decided not to return to Hogwarts even if the school reopens. He closed the newspaper and went downstairs to see Dudley fighting his dad.
“Look, my son can attack me”, Uncle Vernon said with a happy tone.
“Dudders, are you preparing yourself for the boxing match you got?”, said Aunt Petunia.
“Yes mom”, said Dudley proudly.
Harry found this topic relevant to this task. Just like Dudley, he has to prepare himself to fight the evil. He carried on with his work to clean the house as if he didn’t mind what they were talking.
“Show them that you can take out any sorts Dudley”, said Uncle Vernon with a smile,”even their kind”
Harry knew whom they were talking about but he didn’t mind. When the Dursleys realized that Harry is never going to respond, Uncle Vernon said, “What were the things that attacked you two years back?”
Harry for the first time replied, “Dementors” and went on with his work.
“Yes Dudley, you can take out those as well, can’t you?”
“Yes I can”, Dudley replied proudly.
Harry wondered how Dudley would be fighting with things that he can’t see. Aunt Petunia didn’t like that topic to be continued, so she asked Dudley, “How about a chocolate cookie, Popkins?”
“Show them how you can make knock out punches”, Uncle Vernon however interrupted.
Duddley nodded.
After having breakfast, Harry wondered when to leave the house. He wanted to leave the house desperately; he had the same in his mind every summer at the Dursley’s house but this time he didn’t want to leave the house to have fun but for his destiny. Except his third year someone picked him up. The first year he was picked up by Rubeus Hagrid, the time he knew he was a wizard. The next year Ron, Fred and George picked him up. In the fourth year, Arthur Weasley picked him up when he had to go to the Quidditch World Cup. In his fifth year, a group of Aurors picked him up. In the sixth year, it was none other than Dumbledore who picked him up. This time he didn’t expect anyone to pick him up as he was sure that everyone who had come to pick him up, except for the Weasley brothers, had come on Dumbledore’s orders. But now since Dumbledore has died, he didn’t expect anyone. He knew he didn’t want anyone to pick him up. He felt mature this time.
A month later it was the same for him. It was July 29th. In the daily prophet which Hedwig brought, he read about a muggle attacked by dementors and he didn’t care to read it
Harry received a mail from Ron and Hermione who was already at the Burrow. It came in a single letter. From the dirty handwriting he knew it was Ron who wrote it.
‘Harry hoping you are fine. We have to talk to you. Come here soon! We miss you! I guess they will come to pick you up today or even later. I am not sure.
P.S: If you are wondering who the other in the ‘we’ is, it is Hermione.’
.
Harry read the letter twice and went down the staircase to find Uncle Vernon crying. He had never seen his uncle crying. It was more like a pig’s grunt to him.
Another man was there. Harry would have thought something would have happened to Aunt Petunia or Dudley if they had not been standing in the kitchen listening. There was a man speaking to Uncle Vernon.
“Yeah its true Vernon. It happened”
“How is she now?”
“In a worse condition….” Said the stranger and added, ”you should not meet her”
“Why? I should meet her, Mr.Jones”
“She doesn’t reply. It is the worse the people have seen. She is kind of died.”
“Poor Marge!” Uncle Vernon gave a deep sigh.
Harry knew what it was. He quickly went upstairs and read the daily prophet that he had ignored fifteen minutes back.
“More attack and this time it was worse. A muggle lady named Marge was attacked by the Dementors and the worst thing was she was kissed by the dementors and her soul was sucked”
Harry couldn’t read anymore. He remembered this lady whom he blew accidentally four years back. He went downstairs an hour later and found the Dursleys alone. They didn’t say any word. But Harry made a speech, the words bursted out, the speech that he never imagined talking to the Dursleys.
“I heard about your sister”, Harry thought, “ and I feel sorry for her”
Uncle Vernon did not reply. But Harry continued.
“It was hard to hear it ofcourse”
Uncle Vernon still didn’t reply.
“It would have been very bad losing a sister just as I had lost my parents”
Uncle Vernon gave a hiccough that was more like a snort.
“You must be lucky that your son escaped last time”
Uncle Vernon turned his head towards Harry. His eyes were red.
“What do you mean?”, he said
“Your sister was attacked by the dementors that attacked your son”
“What? So your people attacked my sister?”, Uncle Vernon turned pink with anger now almost matching his red eyes.
“Not my people. They are of the bad sort. Evil!”
“Whoever they are, they are of your sort. You are now going to jail”, said Uncle Vernon and got up.
“If you send me to jail, these attacks will continue”
“How dare you threaten me boy?”, Uncle Vernon tightened his fists.
“No I am not threatening you”, said Harry softly.
“Enough of you boy, I have had enough”
“Go on. Send me to jail. They think you have gone mad”
“I don’t care if they do. I have got enough proof”
“You don’t need to send me to jail. I will leave the house in a week or even sooner”
“Trying to escape, aren’t you?” said Uncle Vernon, “Trying to escape with the old man who is teaching you all these stuffs?”
“No I am not”, said Harry, “he is dead”
Uncle Vernon became silent. Aunt Petunia was shocked.
“He is dead?”, both of them said together.
“Yes, the evil sort killed him. It will not be late before any one of us gets killed”
Uncle Vernon’s face went red
“I don’t want anyone else to die”
“Yes Uncle Vernon”
Just then an owl came. It was not Hedwig. It was a different one. He found it to be Lupin’s.
“Harry never leave the house alone we will come there to pick you up. Expect us this evening”
Harry was happy that someone is coming to pick him up. He immediately said to Uncle Vernon.
“I am leaving tonight”, he said.
“That’s for good”.
He had his trunks ready and also his broomstick. He was sure that they would leave as they did two years back. That evening Lupin came and didn’t come inside the house.
“Come out Mr.Potter We have to go soon”
“Yes Professor Lupin I am coming”
He then turned to the Dursleys and made a little bow to them. He didn’t know why he did it. Then he said,
“Thanks Uncle Vernon for taking care of me all these sixteen years. I am really grateful to you”
He then turned to Lupin and said, “Where are the others?”
“I have come here to pick you all alone”
Then came an owl. This time it was Pigwidgeon. Harry quickly read it. It was Ron’s handwriting.
“Professor Lupin ,Tonks, Professor Moody are coming to pick you up, be careful”
Harry read the letter and backed off immediately into his house and said to Lupin who was still standing outside, “Who are you?” taking out his wand.
“Mr.Potter, I am Lupin”
“Professor Lupin never calls me Potter. Now tell me who are you?”
The Dursleys got frightened. Then there was silence.
“Tell the truth who you are!”, shouted Harry
Lupin gave a wicked laugh and shouted, “You better come outside and don’t point that wand at me. You are not supposed to..”
“I know I am not supposed to. But since Hogwarts has closed I don’t mind using a curse even if it is an unforgivable one”, Harry said unsurely and shouted, “Who are you?”
Uncle Vernon had enough. He yelled at Harry, “Don’t you dare take that wand inside my house. Now get out!” Just then the fake Lupin gave a grin and he could see teeth like that of a vampire or like a werewolf to be exact.
“You are Fenrir Greyback!”, Harry exclaimed.
“Potter leave the house now” , shouted Uncle Vernon and tried to push him out of the house.
Harry escaped from the hands of Uncle Vernon and got a glimpse outside. The fake Lupin was gone and he could see several people coming towards the door. There were Lupin, Tonks, Mad-eye Moody as Ron said but there were also two people that Harry never imagined would come. It was Charlie Weasley and Fleur Delacaour.
They came inside the house and said “Hello”.
“’ello ‘arry” ,greeted Fleur and kissed him on his cheeks.
Harry noticed Dudley noticing Fleur.
“Are the trunks ready?”, asked Lupin.
“Yes”, he said still wondering about the fake Lupin.
“I have to tell you something Professor Lupin”
“Yes go on”
He explained the whole situation to them avoiding the hatred glance of Uncle Vernon and also Dudley noticing Fleur.
"Come on Harry. Did you think that just a single wizard can guard you?"
Harry nodded his head.
“How did they get my hair?”, said Lupin
“I guess its Fenrir Greyback Professor”, said Harry in a proud tone.
Everyone was shocked. No one had dared to come near Harry’s house. Even Voldemort wouldn’t have liked it. Fenrir might have come himself without anyone’s orders.
“Alright Harry. Its time to leave”
They mounted the broomsticks in the back garden and flew straightaway just like they did last time. They took turns in surrounding Harry and Harry felt numb like last time when he went higher and higher. He had the feeling to go down but remained on their orders. Atlast they neared the burrow and they got down. Harry could feel the house is waiting for him and eagerly went inside.
“Avada Kedavra”
Harry woke up with a start. His hands were sweating and so were his body.. He had the same dream for the past one week. He couldn’t get enough sleep. Harry knew that he shouldn’t rest until he had done the job, to take revenge. He wanted to leave the place that day. The sun had just risen and Hedwig was not there. He had sent it to Diagon Alley to get a copy of the Daily Prophet last night. Harry felt deeply depressed. He had always liked the feeling of a wizard., the night Hagrid came and told him that he was a wizard. But now he would have been happier with just cleaning up the home.
Hedwig came back with a copy of the Daily Prophet for which he had actually sent it. He read the news that he had been thinking for the past one week, the news about Dumbledore’s death and also there were the words of conflict between the minister and the ex-minister.
‘The Wizards and Witches have now started complaining about the Minister of Magic, Rufus Scrimgour , who replaced Cornelius Fudge last year. They wanted the immediate removal of the new Minister of Magic.
“When I was the minister nothing like this happened. Hogwarts is a school and I can’t imagine death eaters attacking there. This shows the carelessness of the Ministry….”
Said our former minister Cornelius Fudge.
Rufus Scrimgoeur however had a defense to the statement. “I never expected such words from the former minister. This was an accident and no one expected such brainwork from the death eaters. Well shall I point out that a year ago, several death eaters and mere students managed to enter the most secure room of the Ministry of Magic! We are doing our work and this year I shall do the obvious, saving the people. The world comprises of two – the good and the evil. My job here is to eliminate the evil and it is not only the job for me but for all of you. Lets do it together! ” ‘
Harry now had a great respect for him. He didn’t know why. It was maybe because he didn’t like Fudge or maybe because he liked his speech.
. But then he found something interesting. The news about the one man he hated the most – Severus Snape.
‘Ministry has searched the house of the death eater Severus Snape at Spinner’s End where he lives. But they were too late. He had escaped. News confirmed that Snape had been there recently’.
Harry couldn’t understand why the Daily Prophet is turning against the Ministry. But he didn’t care about it and he went on with the news:
‘It is likely that the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizadry will be closed this year owing to the attacks almost a fortnight ago! Professor Minerva McGonagall had a few words to say about this, “It is upon the Ministry to decide”. ‘
Harry wondered of the world without Hogwarts. He had already decided not to return to Hogwarts even if the school reopens. He closed the newspaper and went downstairs to see Dudley fighting his dad.
“Look, my son can attack me”, Uncle Vernon said with a happy tone.
“Dudders, are you preparing yourself for the boxing match you got?”, said Aunt Petunia.
“Yes mom”, said Dudley proudly.
Harry found this topic relevant to this task. Just like Dudley, he has to prepare himself to fight the evil. He carried on with his work to clean the house as if he didn’t mind what they were talking.
“Show them that you can take out any sorts Dudley”, said Uncle Vernon with a smile,”even their kind”
Harry knew whom they were talking about but he didn’t mind. When the Dursleys realized that Harry is never going to respond, Uncle Vernon said, “What were the things that attacked you two years back?”
Harry for the first time replied, “Dementors” and went on with his work.
“Yes Dudley, you can take out those as well, can’t you?”
“Yes I can”, Dudley replied proudly.
Harry wondered how Dudley would be fighting with things that he can’t see. Aunt Petunia didn’t like that topic to be continued, so she asked Dudley, “How about a chocolate cookie, Popkins?”
“Show them how you can make knock out punches”, Uncle Vernon however interrupted.
Duddley nodded.
After having breakfast, Harry wondered when to leave the house. He wanted to leave the house desperately; he had the same in his mind every summer at the Dursley’s house but this time he didn’t want to leave the house to have fun but for his destiny. Except his third year someone picked him up. The first year he was picked up by Rubeus Hagrid, the time he knew he was a wizard. The next year Ron, Fred and George picked him up. In the fourth year, Arthur Weasley picked him up when he had to go to the Quidditch World Cup. In his fifth year, a group of Aurors picked him up. In the sixth year, it was none other than Dumbledore who picked him up. This time he didn’t expect anyone to pick him up as he was sure that everyone who had come to pick him up, except for the Weasley brothers, had come on Dumbledore’s orders. But now since Dumbledore has died, he didn’t expect anyone. He knew he didn’t want anyone to pick him up. He felt mature this time.
A month later it was the same for him. It was July 29th. In the daily prophet which Hedwig brought, he read about a muggle attacked by dementors and he didn’t care to read it
Harry received a mail from Ron and Hermione who was already at the Burrow. It came in a single letter. From the dirty handwriting he knew it was Ron who wrote it.
‘Harry hoping you are fine. We have to talk to you. Come here soon! We miss you! I guess they will come to pick you up today or even later. I am not sure.
P.S: If you are wondering who the other in the ‘we’ is, it is Hermione.’
.
Harry read the letter twice and went down the staircase to find Uncle Vernon crying. He had never seen his uncle crying. It was more like a pig’s grunt to him.
Another man was there. Harry would have thought something would have happened to Aunt Petunia or Dudley if they had not been standing in the kitchen listening. There was a man speaking to Uncle Vernon.
“Yeah its true Vernon. It happened”
“How is she now?”
“In a worse condition….” Said the stranger and added, ”you should not meet her”
“Why? I should meet her, Mr.Jones”
“She doesn’t reply. It is the worse the people have seen. She is kind of died.”
“Poor Marge!” Uncle Vernon gave a deep sigh.
Harry knew what it was. He quickly went upstairs and read the daily prophet that he had ignored fifteen minutes back.
“More attack and this time it was worse. A muggle lady named Marge was attacked by the Dementors and the worst thing was she was kissed by the dementors and her soul was sucked”
Harry couldn’t read anymore. He remembered this lady whom he blew accidentally four years back. He went downstairs an hour later and found the Dursleys alone. They didn’t say any word. But Harry made a speech, the words bursted out, the speech that he never imagined talking to the Dursleys.
“I heard about your sister”, Harry thought, “ and I feel sorry for her”
Uncle Vernon did not reply. But Harry continued.
“It was hard to hear it ofcourse”
Uncle Vernon still didn’t reply.
“It would have been very bad losing a sister just as I had lost my parents”
Uncle Vernon gave a hiccough that was more like a snort.
“You must be lucky that your son escaped last time”
Uncle Vernon turned his head towards Harry. His eyes were red.
“What do you mean?”, he said
“Your sister was attacked by the dementors that attacked your son”
“What? So your people attacked my sister?”, Uncle Vernon turned pink with anger now almost matching his red eyes.
“Not my people. They are of the bad sort. Evil!”
“Whoever they are, they are of your sort. You are now going to jail”, said Uncle Vernon and got up.
“If you send me to jail, these attacks will continue”
“How dare you threaten me boy?”, Uncle Vernon tightened his fists.
“No I am not threatening you”, said Harry softly.
“Enough of you boy, I have had enough”
“Go on. Send me to jail. They think you have gone mad”
“I don’t care if they do. I have got enough proof”
“You don’t need to send me to jail. I will leave the house in a week or even sooner”
“Trying to escape, aren’t you?” said Uncle Vernon, “Trying to escape with the old man who is teaching you all these stuffs?”
“No I am not”, said Harry, “he is dead”
Uncle Vernon became silent. Aunt Petunia was shocked.
“He is dead?”, both of them said together.
“Yes, the evil sort killed him. It will not be late before any one of us gets killed”
Uncle Vernon’s face went red
“I don’t want anyone else to die”
“Yes Uncle Vernon”
Just then an owl came. It was not Hedwig. It was a different one. He found it to be Lupin’s.
“Harry never leave the house alone we will come there to pick you up. Expect us this evening”
Harry was happy that someone is coming to pick him up. He immediately said to Uncle Vernon.
“I am leaving tonight”, he said.
“That’s for good”.
He had his trunks ready and also his broomstick. He was sure that they would leave as they did two years back. That evening Lupin came and didn’t come inside the house.
“Come out Mr.Potter We have to go soon”
“Yes Professor Lupin I am coming”
He then turned to the Dursleys and made a little bow to them. He didn’t know why he did it. Then he said,
“Thanks Uncle Vernon for taking care of me all these sixteen years. I am really grateful to you”
He then turned to Lupin and said, “Where are the others?”
“I have come here to pick you all alone”
Then came an owl. This time it was Pigwidgeon. Harry quickly read it. It was Ron’s handwriting.
“Professor Lupin ,Tonks, Professor Moody are coming to pick you up, be careful”
Harry read the letter and backed off immediately into his house and said to Lupin who was still standing outside, “Who are you?” taking out his wand.
“Mr.Potter, I am Lupin”
“Professor Lupin never calls me Potter. Now tell me who are you?”
The Dursleys got frightened. Then there was silence.
“Tell the truth who you are!”, shouted Harry
Lupin gave a wicked laugh and shouted, “You better come outside and don’t point that wand at me. You are not supposed to..”
“I know I am not supposed to. But since Hogwarts has closed I don’t mind using a curse even if it is an unforgivable one”, Harry said unsurely and shouted, “Who are you?”
Uncle Vernon had enough. He yelled at Harry, “Don’t you dare take that wand inside my house. Now get out!” Just then the fake Lupin gave a grin and he could see teeth like that of a vampire or like a werewolf to be exact.
“You are Fenrir Greyback!”, Harry exclaimed.
“Potter leave the house now” , shouted Uncle Vernon and tried to push him out of the house.
Harry escaped from the hands of Uncle Vernon and got a glimpse outside. The fake Lupin was gone and he could see several people coming towards the door. There were Lupin, Tonks, Mad-eye Moody as Ron said but there were also two people that Harry never imagined would come. It was Charlie Weasley and Fleur Delacaour.
They came inside the house and said “Hello”.
“’ello ‘arry” ,greeted Fleur and kissed him on his cheeks.
Harry noticed Dudley noticing Fleur.
“Are the trunks ready?”, asked Lupin.
“Yes”, he said still wondering about the fake Lupin.
“I have to tell you something Professor Lupin”
“Yes go on”
He explained the whole situation to them avoiding the hatred glance of Uncle Vernon and also Dudley noticing Fleur.
"Come on Harry. Did you think that just a single wizard can guard you?"
Harry nodded his head.
“How did they get my hair?”, said Lupin
“I guess its Fenrir Greyback Professor”, said Harry in a proud tone.
Everyone was shocked. No one had dared to come near Harry’s house. Even Voldemort wouldn’t have liked it. Fenrir might have come himself without anyone’s orders.
“Alright Harry. Its time to leave”
They mounted the broomsticks in the back garden and flew straightaway just like they did last time. They took turns in surrounding Harry and Harry felt numb like last time when he went higher and higher. He had the feeling to go down but remained on their orders. Atlast they neared the burrow and they got down. Harry could feel the house is waiting for him and eagerly went inside.
Chapter 1 : The Reward
The night was so dark that day. More muggles had died. More wizards had died. More witches had died. The muggles had no clue of how the death occured. But there in a house at the Spinner’s end, one was aware of the deaths. Severus Snape read the daily prophet to himself.
‘He-who-must-not-be-named didn’t show up last year but we have seen many attacks from last year by the death-eaters, maybe its all just a show made by the death eaters. Albus Dumbledore the Headmaster of Hogwarts was killed last week by none other than a Hogwarts teacher Severus Snape who was once a death-eater himself. “Severus Snape was the teacher most trusted by Albus Dumbledore and we never thought he would betray us”, says Professor Minerva McGonagall the new headmistress of Hogwarts’
Snape read the daily prophet and smiled to himself. He is going to meet the Dark Lord the next day and he is going to be showered with blessings. Draco Malfoy was there along with his mother Narcissa Malfoy. Draco was so pale that night, he had been pale and frightened for the past one week. He couldn’t forget the horrible moment with Dumbledore. Snape however felt happy.
“Excited to be going to meet the dark lord, aren’t you Draco?” , asked Snape
“Yes Professor Snape” replied Malfoy. Indeed it was not true. He didn’t expect to meet the Dark Lord so soon.
“Will the Dark Lord punish my son?” asked Narcissa
“I am afraid so” replied Snape
“Will you stop the Dark Lord from doing so, Severus?” asked Narcissa. She was almost in tears.
“I can’t stop the Dark Lord, Narcissa…”
“Yes you can” interrupted Narcissa.
“We will see tomorrow”.
The next day morning was bright as usual. Malfoy’s face looked more pale in the morning sunlight. He was more worried about meeting the Dark Lord. But he felt bold enough to ask the question “are we not going to meet the Dark Lord?”
“Yes we have to wait for the signal”, replied Snape.
“What signal?”
“Malfoy you are now a death-eater. You have been already told about the signal!”.
“Yes Professor Snape”
“If you can see I am not a teacher anymore. So call me ‘Sir’!”
“Yes sir”
Malfoy waited for what seemed like hours. Then he felt a burning sensation on his left arm. The Dark mark on his right hand was burning. Snape showed signs of glee on his face. He turned to Narcissa for approval and Narcissa nodded.
“Hold one of your hands with mine and the other with your mother!” commanded Snape.
Malfoy did so. The three of them clutched their hands tightly and Snape counted “1”, “2”, and “3” and the world turned upside down for Malfoy. He had already apparated with Snape. He never liked this feeling. The place where they appeared was a spooky place. There were inside a house that was sealed outside the gate. Outside the house was what seemed like garden to Malfoy. No muggles were near the house. Malfoy wondered why. When they entered the door, Malfoy read the sign ‘The Riddle House welcomes you’. Malfoy recognized where they were. He had heard the story from his mother. Narcissa knocked at the door. The door unlocked and they were welcomed by a short, bald headed guy with watery eyes.
“Move aside Peter! Give way!” shouted Snape.
Peter Pettigrew gave a disgusted look and led them inside into an enormous hall. There was a fireplace that had no fire burning. There were ashes in it. Malfoy could see many people standing there, talking to each other. They were Death Eaters and Malfoy for the first time felt happy. There was a sudden pop and Bellatrix Lestrange made her appearance.
“It would have been indeed wiser to knock on the door Bella” Snape beamed at Bellatrix.
Bellatrix gave a fake smile and saw Malfoy “You have made us proud my son!, much like your mother, aren’t you?” Narcissa gave a fake cough at this statement.
“Are you pointing out my husband, Bella?”
“No Cissy.. I was not”
“Yes you were..”
Narcissa stopped talking as did everyone else. The silence was too long to Malfoy. He was about to ask, “Why is this silence?” But his question was answered. He saw a man coming down the staircase which was in the middle of the hall. Malfoy trembled when he saw his face. It was pale blue with red marks. He have never seen a man like this before. He knew who it was. He had Goosebumps all over his body. He never expected to see him that day. Till then he thought it was just a joke. The Dark Lord sat in the only chair that was in the middle of the hall.
“To the Dark Lord who would have already heard this news. Dumbledore is dead my Lord”, said someone.
“Yes I know..” Voldemort hissed. “..and I appreciate the one who did it. You will be rewarded Snape”
Snape gave a bow and said, “Its an honor my Lord”
“It is surprising to see someone who has not done his job making an appearance here”, said Voldemort. This time his voice was a bit sterner than before.
Narcissa caught her son’s shoulders as if he was about to fall on a cliff. Voldemort’s head turned to see Draco.
“You ought to get a reward too, shouldn't you my boy?”
Malfoy couldn’t answer. He didn’t know what to speak.
Narcissa came for his defense, “Please my Lord…he was and is too young to kill”
Voldemort hissed again, “The Betrayal is what I don’t bear Narcissa”
Snape interrupted, “My Lord, he has done a great job. He mended the cabinet to make a passageway for our fellow death-eaters my Lord”.
Voldemort turned to Draco again, “I never expected more from you. But you shall be rewarded”
He beckoned Draco to come to him. Draco didn’t expect this in his life. Narcissa pushed him from behind disheartedly. Draco slowly moved towards the chair whereas everyone was about ten inches away from the chair. Draco moved towards Voldemort. Voldemort gave no expression. He took something from his clothes and picked out a book. The book was thick and dark. Above the book was written: “Dark Spells: Basic and Advance”.
“Learn these spells!” said Voldemort in what sounded more like a command to Draco. Draco moved away as fast as he could.
Voldemort then beckoned Snape to come to him.
“You have indeed done a great honor Snape”, hissed Voldemort. “But I never expected the old man to die so soon”, he added.
“I showed my honors to him my Lord”, said Snape.
“There is something suspicious about his death. Why didn’t the filthy bird come and save him as it did last year when he was inches from his death?” asked Voldemort.
“Victory favored us my Lord”
“What was he upto? Why didn't he counter attack? He can do it with his eyes closed”, Voldemort interrupted giving no expressions.
“I saw two broomsticks..”, shouted Malfoy and looking at the others’ expression added “my Lord”.
Voldemort gave a satisfied expression and asked, “Who was using the other?”
“I don’t know , my Lord” said Malfoy.
“I believe Rosemerta was under the imperius curse. Why didn’t anyone ask her?” said Voldemort with anger dripping from his words.
Everyone trembled. “We had no time to meet her, my Lord. Her imperious curse would have been countered by the ministry by now”, said Snape boldly.
“Yes yes” Voldemort hissed again. He once again placed his hands inside his cloak and pulled out something. It was a blue sphere and glowed everytime. Snape’s eyes gleamed at the new treasure.
“You shall have this as a reward”, said Voldemort again giving no expressions.
“An honor, my Lord.”
Everyone looked amused and shocked.Draco saw Bellatrix and Peter glowing with jealousy. He was sure that the blue sphere was something more special.
“And also I appoint you as the chief of my servants”, said Voldemort this time with a smile.
Snape bowed his head and moved away. He gave a proud look at Bellatrix. Bellatrix however turned away.
Voldemort said, “With Dumbledore gone, Harry will have no mercy” and he laughed.
Peter Pettigrew spoke for the first time unlike others who never spoke, “Why can’t we make him join us, my Lord?”
Voldemort gave a sickening smile. “Your pity for the boy has been growing these days. Feeling so generous these days, aren’t we?”
Peter gave no reply and shook his head.
Draco turned towards Snape who was still looking at the gift he had received.
Bellatrix had a look as if she was betrayed. His mother however felt no more sad. She was happy now and was talking with her fellow death eaters. Draco had still the same thing in his mind , “What is the use of the blue sphere?”
“Dismissed everyone! Let us rise,greater and more powerful than ever before, let us crush the ministry”, Voldemort shouted and added after a pause "We shall vanquish harry from the face of this world,just like we killed Dumbledore"
Everyone shouted, “To the Dark Lord”
Draco had the urgent feeling to leave that place! He couldn’t understand what was going on there! The blue sphere? What does it do?
‘He-who-must-not-be-named didn’t show up last year but we have seen many attacks from last year by the death-eaters, maybe its all just a show made by the death eaters. Albus Dumbledore the Headmaster of Hogwarts was killed last week by none other than a Hogwarts teacher Severus Snape who was once a death-eater himself. “Severus Snape was the teacher most trusted by Albus Dumbledore and we never thought he would betray us”, says Professor Minerva McGonagall the new headmistress of Hogwarts’
Snape read the daily prophet and smiled to himself. He is going to meet the Dark Lord the next day and he is going to be showered with blessings. Draco Malfoy was there along with his mother Narcissa Malfoy. Draco was so pale that night, he had been pale and frightened for the past one week. He couldn’t forget the horrible moment with Dumbledore. Snape however felt happy.
“Excited to be going to meet the dark lord, aren’t you Draco?” , asked Snape
“Yes Professor Snape” replied Malfoy. Indeed it was not true. He didn’t expect to meet the Dark Lord so soon.
“Will the Dark Lord punish my son?” asked Narcissa
“I am afraid so” replied Snape
“Will you stop the Dark Lord from doing so, Severus?” asked Narcissa. She was almost in tears.
“I can’t stop the Dark Lord, Narcissa…”
“Yes you can” interrupted Narcissa.
“We will see tomorrow”.
The next day morning was bright as usual. Malfoy’s face looked more pale in the morning sunlight. He was more worried about meeting the Dark Lord. But he felt bold enough to ask the question “are we not going to meet the Dark Lord?”
“Yes we have to wait for the signal”, replied Snape.
“What signal?”
“Malfoy you are now a death-eater. You have been already told about the signal!”.
“Yes Professor Snape”
“If you can see I am not a teacher anymore. So call me ‘Sir’!”
“Yes sir”
Malfoy waited for what seemed like hours. Then he felt a burning sensation on his left arm. The Dark mark on his right hand was burning. Snape showed signs of glee on his face. He turned to Narcissa for approval and Narcissa nodded.
“Hold one of your hands with mine and the other with your mother!” commanded Snape.
Malfoy did so. The three of them clutched their hands tightly and Snape counted “1”, “2”, and “3” and the world turned upside down for Malfoy. He had already apparated with Snape. He never liked this feeling. The place where they appeared was a spooky place. There were inside a house that was sealed outside the gate. Outside the house was what seemed like garden to Malfoy. No muggles were near the house. Malfoy wondered why. When they entered the door, Malfoy read the sign ‘The Riddle House welcomes you’. Malfoy recognized where they were. He had heard the story from his mother. Narcissa knocked at the door. The door unlocked and they were welcomed by a short, bald headed guy with watery eyes.
“Move aside Peter! Give way!” shouted Snape.
Peter Pettigrew gave a disgusted look and led them inside into an enormous hall. There was a fireplace that had no fire burning. There were ashes in it. Malfoy could see many people standing there, talking to each other. They were Death Eaters and Malfoy for the first time felt happy. There was a sudden pop and Bellatrix Lestrange made her appearance.
“It would have been indeed wiser to knock on the door Bella” Snape beamed at Bellatrix.
Bellatrix gave a fake smile and saw Malfoy “You have made us proud my son!, much like your mother, aren’t you?” Narcissa gave a fake cough at this statement.
“Are you pointing out my husband, Bella?”
“No Cissy.. I was not”
“Yes you were..”
Narcissa stopped talking as did everyone else. The silence was too long to Malfoy. He was about to ask, “Why is this silence?” But his question was answered. He saw a man coming down the staircase which was in the middle of the hall. Malfoy trembled when he saw his face. It was pale blue with red marks. He have never seen a man like this before. He knew who it was. He had Goosebumps all over his body. He never expected to see him that day. Till then he thought it was just a joke. The Dark Lord sat in the only chair that was in the middle of the hall.
“To the Dark Lord who would have already heard this news. Dumbledore is dead my Lord”, said someone.
“Yes I know..” Voldemort hissed. “..and I appreciate the one who did it. You will be rewarded Snape”
Snape gave a bow and said, “Its an honor my Lord”
“It is surprising to see someone who has not done his job making an appearance here”, said Voldemort. This time his voice was a bit sterner than before.
Narcissa caught her son’s shoulders as if he was about to fall on a cliff. Voldemort’s head turned to see Draco.
“You ought to get a reward too, shouldn't you my boy?”
Malfoy couldn’t answer. He didn’t know what to speak.
Narcissa came for his defense, “Please my Lord…he was and is too young to kill”
Voldemort hissed again, “The Betrayal is what I don’t bear Narcissa”
Snape interrupted, “My Lord, he has done a great job. He mended the cabinet to make a passageway for our fellow death-eaters my Lord”.
Voldemort turned to Draco again, “I never expected more from you. But you shall be rewarded”
He beckoned Draco to come to him. Draco didn’t expect this in his life. Narcissa pushed him from behind disheartedly. Draco slowly moved towards the chair whereas everyone was about ten inches away from the chair. Draco moved towards Voldemort. Voldemort gave no expression. He took something from his clothes and picked out a book. The book was thick and dark. Above the book was written: “Dark Spells: Basic and Advance”.
“Learn these spells!” said Voldemort in what sounded more like a command to Draco. Draco moved away as fast as he could.
Voldemort then beckoned Snape to come to him.
“You have indeed done a great honor Snape”, hissed Voldemort. “But I never expected the old man to die so soon”, he added.
“I showed my honors to him my Lord”, said Snape.
“There is something suspicious about his death. Why didn’t the filthy bird come and save him as it did last year when he was inches from his death?” asked Voldemort.
“Victory favored us my Lord”
“What was he upto? Why didn't he counter attack? He can do it with his eyes closed”, Voldemort interrupted giving no expressions.
“I saw two broomsticks..”, shouted Malfoy and looking at the others’ expression added “my Lord”.
Voldemort gave a satisfied expression and asked, “Who was using the other?”
“I don’t know , my Lord” said Malfoy.
“I believe Rosemerta was under the imperius curse. Why didn’t anyone ask her?” said Voldemort with anger dripping from his words.
Everyone trembled. “We had no time to meet her, my Lord. Her imperious curse would have been countered by the ministry by now”, said Snape boldly.
“Yes yes” Voldemort hissed again. He once again placed his hands inside his cloak and pulled out something. It was a blue sphere and glowed everytime. Snape’s eyes gleamed at the new treasure.
“You shall have this as a reward”, said Voldemort again giving no expressions.
“An honor, my Lord.”
Everyone looked amused and shocked.Draco saw Bellatrix and Peter glowing with jealousy. He was sure that the blue sphere was something more special.
“And also I appoint you as the chief of my servants”, said Voldemort this time with a smile.
Snape bowed his head and moved away. He gave a proud look at Bellatrix. Bellatrix however turned away.
Voldemort said, “With Dumbledore gone, Harry will have no mercy” and he laughed.
Peter Pettigrew spoke for the first time unlike others who never spoke, “Why can’t we make him join us, my Lord?”
Voldemort gave a sickening smile. “Your pity for the boy has been growing these days. Feeling so generous these days, aren’t we?”
Peter gave no reply and shook his head.
Draco turned towards Snape who was still looking at the gift he had received.
Bellatrix had a look as if she was betrayed. His mother however felt no more sad. She was happy now and was talking with her fellow death eaters. Draco had still the same thing in his mind , “What is the use of the blue sphere?”
“Dismissed everyone! Let us rise,greater and more powerful than ever before, let us crush the ministry”, Voldemort shouted and added after a pause "We shall vanquish harry from the face of this world,just like we killed Dumbledore"
Everyone shouted, “To the Dark Lord”
Draco had the urgent feeling to leave that place! He couldn’t understand what was going on there! The blue sphere? What does it do?
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