Chapter 20: Gifts from the Past
"Harry Potter Sir? Miss Hermione's parents are at breakfast so I have come to check if you were ready yet Sir."
They opened their eyes to find Dobby standing over them on the comforter. Hermione pulled the comforter over their heads, causing Dobby to topple onto the bed.
"Tell them we are still sleeping Dobby, we will be down later!"
They felt Dobby struggling to his feet. "Yes Miss Hermione, Dobby is sorry for disturbing you and Harry Potter." They felt his weight leave the bed.
Stretching Harry sleepily told her "Oh no, now he thinks you're mad at him Hermione."
"Serves him right waking us up so early, I want to wake up to your voice every morning Harry, not his!" She snuggled her naked body against his and felt him growing hard against her thigh. "I think it's time for a more proper waking up." And with a broad grin on her face she laid back down composing herself as though asleep.
Harry smiled and raised himself slowly onto his elbow. She was barely restraining herself from laughing as he put his lips over hers. He kissed her once, quite slowly "Wake up sleeping beauty." Though she returned his kiss warmly she didn't open her eyes. "Oh no, a princess enchanted to sleep until she is kissed somewhere other than her lips? Hmmm, I wonder where will do the trick." He methodically began kissing her all over; first on her eyelids, then her cheeks and chin. He kissed her slowly, enjoying this as much as she was. His bare chest was slowly rubbing against her heaving breasts as he moved over her. He moved down to her neck, kissing it on the sides and the front before moving on to her collarbones and shoulders; kissing down her arms and back up her side she squirmed a bit when he got to her hip.
He spent a lot of time on her breasts, thoroughly kissing every delicious bit. She was now moaning softly as he continued working his way down her "sleeping" body. He moved so he was sitting between her legs, under the comforter. He had to move by feel and decided that it was immensely enjoyable to wake Hermione like this. Her hips were a lot of fun to kiss, they made her squirm deliciously. He thought he knew where to kiss her now that would "wake" her but he avoided it for now, choosing to continue down her left leg and then moving to her right foot to come back up.
He reached the joining of her legs again; she had them spread out wide allowing him complete freedom to do as he chose. She had three times now proven she was willing, he decided it was high time he proved to her that he was as well. He had been kissing and sucking his way around her privates, still amazingly hairless, when he encountered her nether "lips". He plunged his tongue inside and licked upwards.
"Harry!" she almost screamed as she struggled to stay still and let him continue.
He wasn't sure what he had expected but other than there was no way he could breath like this, he felt he could do this for a while, maybe he needed a modified bubble head charm? There was nothing unpleasant about it for him; she was almost tasteless except for a hint of cinnamon. He was unsure where it would be most pleasurable for her so he sucked and licked his way around her opening, pausing every minute or so to take a deep breath before plunging his tongue back inside her. She was moaning quite loudly when she finally pulled his head up to the top and held it there. Taking the hint he concentrated his attention there. Soon he had to clamp his arms around her thighs to keep his mouth there as she bucked uncontrollably. Her scream of pleasure was uninhibited then she finally let him pull his head away.
She almost begged, "I need my animal inside me now."
He climbed on top and did as he was ordered. Though he was sure there was no way he could last long; she was so lubricated it was nearly thirty minutes later before he reached his climax. This had certainly been their roughest shag to date but they were both smiling happily as they lay there exhausted.
He panted out between gasps for breath "Interesting way… to break… a sleeping charm!"
A blushing Hermione finally found her voice. "Harry that was amazing, and wonderful, thanks."
"Any time my dear, you may not believe me but you should. There is nothing more important to me than you and anything that makes you happy is well worth doing."
Harry slid out of bed and threw the covers off of her. He scooped her up and carried her into the bathroom. They spent almost twenty minutes in the shower washing each other. Then slowly got dressed, often exchanging quick or sometimes slow kisses. This was the routine they had become accustomed to over the last few days. She picked out his clothes and he helped her with everything except brushing her hair. Eventually they were dressed and Harry strapped on Godric's sword. He had found it on the bathroom sink, where he had thrown it lastnight. They spent almost five minutes looking for Hermione's wand before they found it under the tub.
Smiling to each other they hugged once more before opening the door to the hallway and walking out to face another day. The hallway had been transformed overnight, every fixture was polished, the carpet and woodwork was cleaned and shining. Sunlight poured in thru a skylight above the central stairs he had never noticed before. "Wow, this is amazing. I feel like I am in an entirely different house."
"Yes, I believe this warrants a bonus, and an apology." Hermione concluded quietly.
Through Dan and Emma's open door Dan called to them. "Good morning, sleepy heads."
Hermione strode over to her parents door, Harry followed a step behind. Dan was sideways on the love seat his arms wrapped around his wife. Emma was leaning up against him. She held a book that they had apparently been reading together. "Dad! It is only now seven thirty."
Chuckling Dan replied "Well you have wasted over an hour of your day then dear."
Emma piped in putting the book in her lap "It didn't sound like it was wasted to me Dan. You really ought to sound proof that room my dear."
"Oh yes, it was even louder than last night. Dobby also mentioned a flood in the parlor for some reason." Both of her parents were smiling at them as they stood gaping in the doorway.
Hermione turned red at their remarks then spoke quickly. "We are going to eat breakfast now." She grabbed Harry's hand and dragged him away before the conversation got anymore personal.
When they had reached the entry hall she spun around to whisper fiercely. "Merlin! I can't believe we forgot to put a silencing charm on our room."
Harry, who was also quite red, swallowed and glanced up the stairs before whispering, "Well it may be embarrassing but at least it was just your parents. They don't seem to be upset by it, or did I miss something?"
"No Harry, if they were upset they would have stormed in. We didn't even lock the door, did we?"
"Actually no, I completely forgot about that last night when I came in."
"Harry! We are supposed to be a lot more careful, there is someone out there trying to kill us you know!"
"Yes I know, alright? 'Constant Vigilance' is my new motto. How do you think I would look with a magical spinning eye dear?"
A brief mental picture of Harry Mad-Eye Potter flashed through her head and she smiled despite herself. "Harry, I'm being serious here. Though this is by far the safest place for us, safer than Hogwarts for that matter, we still need to take every precaution we can think of. Let's go talk to Dobby and Winky about intruder alarms and find out just what they would do about an intruder."
"That's a very good idea; I wonder what they feel their responsibility is." He headed off towards the kitchen pulling Hermione along behind him. When they arrived Winky and Dobby stood off to the side near the table, both of them had their heads bowed hands held behind their backs. The table already had breakfast laid out for them.
Dobby and Winky looked up and Dobby spoke. "Harry Potter Sir, we is sorry if we is disappointing you and Misses Hermione Sir. We is trying to be good House Elves."
Hermione bit her lower lip and knelt before them, security precautions flew into the back bin of her priorities. Now able to address them at eye level she said, "Dobby, I apologize for snapping at you this morning. It was uncalled for and I am sorry. The two of you have done some amazing things overnight. The house is looking truly amazing; it is like new this morning. I know we have not had an opportunity to discuss your pay while with us."
"Winky needs no payments Misses Hermione."
Hermione held up her hand to them. "I know that is how you feel Winky but Harry and I want to show our appreciation for your efforts. You have, overnight, transformed the house from a dreary place into a wonderful home that we can enjoy. So not only are you both going to be paid a galleon a month for your work but we will also give you a bonus galleon for doing such a good job." Winky looked horror struck at her pronouncement, Dobby looked to Harry for advice.
"I suggest you accept Hermione's offers or she will become quite forceful and want to pay you a lot more," Harry responded.
Both the house elves took a step back, eyes bulging fearfully at Hermione. Dobby swallowed hard "Harry Potter is wise. Misses Hermione we accept."
Winky looked about to cry at this but composed herself and nodded her small head.
"Good, we are glad to have you in our employ."
Dobby began wringing his hands painfully. "Misses Hermione, We is not done with the cleaning yet. Only the halls, kitchen, and those two bedrooms is done yet. We will try to finish the house today but there is so much to be done."
"Dobby you are not expected to finish today. Whenever you can manage will be fine. We can stay where we are for now."
Harry had come over and sat on the floor next to Hermione. "Dobby what was this about a flood in the parlor lastnight?"
Dobby looked quite embarrassed but replied. "Well sir the parlor is below your bathtub and it seems to have overflowed lastnight. I dried up down here and Winky dried up the bathroom once, once yous had gone to bed sir."
"Winky is a proper elf Misses Hermione, she doesn't speak of what her master and misses does."
Harry and Hermione sat there thinking for a minute about those statements before they both cleared their throats. "Breakfast would be good about now I think." Hermione had stood as she spoke; she held a hand down to help Harry up.
"Yes that sounds wonderful I am hungry." They moved together to the table and sitting close, began to eat.
About ten minutes later Dan and Emma came into the kitchen. Dan sat beside Hermione while Emma sat next to Harry. Harry and Hermione, who had both become red again, cringed at the seating arrangements. "Good morning again kids. Sorry if we embarrassed the two of you but we couldn't resist it." Dan wrapped his arm around his daughter's shoulders.
Emma pulled Harry into a hug before she continued for Dan. "We may not be young anymore but we certainly remember, and can relate to how you both feel. It is an amazing feeling, falling so deeply in love. It never really goes away either, we can tell you that." She glanced adoringly at her husband before continuing. "We assume you are using some magical or mundane means of protection?"
Jokingly Dan added "or are we going to be grandparents on top of all this?"
Hermione was beat red but looked at her father before answering. "Umm magical methods and no, we don't want to have children until after we graduate school."
Dan looked mildly surprised. "So you have already talked about that? As we thought, though you may be head over heels in love, you both still think responsibly about real issues."
"This is a hard issue for any parent to address dear; we just need to be reassured that you understand just what you are getting into."
"Mum, I think we do, at least we have tried to talk it out." Hermione nudged Harry who had remained silent through out the entire conversation so far. Startled a bit, he found he actually had something intelligent to add.
"Every issue that Hermione and I have ever had we have always talked out. We don't hide things from each other, well we hid the fact we loved each other for a while, but now that is out, we have no more secrets." It was quite obvious to everyone that Harry was very proud of that fact.
"Excellent, as long as you keep it that way then you should always be very happy."
"So what is the plan for today kids? Yesterday I heard Gringotts and ring shopping of course, anything else on the agenda?"
Harry said, "Oh yes, I want to stop at the twins shop and see how they are doing."
"I want to stop by Madame Malkin's and Flourish and Blotts as well, Harry," Hermione added.
"Sure, but we will need to be back here by four to meet Professor Dumbledore for training again," Harry reminded her.
"Sounds like a busy day. We're ready to go when you're finished eating." Dan rubbed Hermione's back as he stood. Emma hugged Harry once again as she stood and took her husband's hand, they walked up the stairs into the back yard together.
He sighed once they had left. "I don't know if I can stand many more of those talks Mione. Is this normal for a family? I have nothing to compare this to."
"Well my parents have always been open with me but this is brutal. I think we will have several more before it's over Harry."
He dragged his fingers through his hair then sighed and relaxed a little. "Alright if we must, we must." He hugged her tightly then they went back to eating the excellent breakfast that Winky had prepared for them. Twenty minutes later they were standing in the front hallway with Dan and Emma.
"You need to cover Godric's sword again Harry."
"Harry Potter Sir, Dobby has you a sweater Sir."
"Thank you Dobby."
Harry wrapped the sweater around his waist as Winky opened the front door for them to leave.
The drive to Diagon Alley was quiet. Harry and Hermione sat close together lost in thought.
Dan parked across the street from the Leaky Cauldron and they all got out.
Immediately after they walked into the Leaky Cauldron, several patrons leapt up and greeted Harry, then turned to greet Hermione. Not used to being greeted so openly Harry was rather stunned.
Then Tom the bartender broke up the crowd. "Clear out, you lot, let 'em breathe a bit now. Welcome, be headin' to Diagon Alley I reckon. Outta the way, clear out I says!" Tom proceeded to shove reluctant patrons back towards their seats as he headed towards the back door and the entrance to Diagon Alley. Harry pulled off the sweater, Emma took it from him and it disappeared into her handbag. They followed close behind Tom through the crowd. One of the patrons had hurried ahead of them and was already opening the wall for them. When he turned, Harry was surprised to see it was Dedalus Diggle.
"Thank you Mr. Diggle"
Mr. Diggle bowed deeply, "Oh, he remembered me again! My pleasure sir, my pleasure."
They walked into the crowded alley. Almost immediately, just as they had been greeted in the Leaky Cauldron, they heard cries of "Harry Potter! It's him!" Preceding them down the alley. Soon they could no longer move as the crowd was gathering tightly around them. Everyone seemed to want to shake Harry's hand and tell him they had believed him all along and not that dribble in the Daily Prophet last year. Just as Harry was about to do something desperate to get free of the crowd, underage restrictions or not, he heard a pair of familiar voices coming to their rescue.
"Leave off there!"
"Escort for Mr. Potter and the Grangers coming through."
"Clear the way!"
Six jets of wand sparks suddenly erupted from the crowd to the right of them. Those nearest immediately ran to the safety of the shops. Fred and George stood directly before Harry and Hermione, Alicia and Angelina were just behind them and Ginny and Neville followed. All of their wands were shooting sparks six feet into the air. They quickly moved to encircle them and clear off the crowd.
Harry and Hermione put down their wands, which they had drawn at the sudden appearance of the wand sparks and quickly shook the twins' hands. "Hey guys, we were going to come see your shop but we got mobbed. Oh I see it now." Right there beside him was the entrance for Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes. The W's were huge and standing above the words were two life sized images of Fred and George. As he watched a minute the images slowly transformed into canaries or grew fur. The images seemed to go on and on demonstrating many of the pranks they had for sale.
"So I take it the shop is doing well then?" Hermione asked.
"It's amazing actually, we have had to hire Ginny and Neville here just to keep up."
"Yup we just asked Katie and Lee to come help us out for the rest of the summer. Looks like we will need even more help before long too."
"Amazing guys, and I was going to give you some more money if you needed it."
"Oh mate, unless we want to open another shop we're all set now."
"Where to Harry?" Neville asked. They had all stopped sending wand sparks up into the air as the crowd had dispersed. But they each kept their wand out just in case.
Harry spun around and saw a much more confident Neville than he remembered; maybe having a job was giving him some self respect. Good for him. "Gringott's please. Oh wait a minute; these are Hermione's parents, Dan and Emma Granger. These are Fred, George, and Ginny Weasley, Alicia Spinnet, Angelina Johnson, and Neville Longbottom."
Ginny looked away from her whispered conversation with Hermione to smile and say, "Hello, nice to meet you."
"Smashing to finally meet you both," Fred advanced and went to shake Dan's hand but Hermione quickly intercepted him and looked at his hand first.
"Oy, you don't trust me Miss Prefect?"
"Only as far as I can throw you. Remember I know your mother Fred Weasley."
Fred grinned roguishly and peeled a clear film off of the palm of his hand before offering it to Dan again. Dan took it and shook it heartily. "Heard a lot about you boys over the years, glad to meet you at last."
"Hear that Harry? She talks about us too!" George chimed in as he greeted both the Grangers.
"Yeah Right, I bet she only uses your names when she is mad, right Hermione?" Ginny interrupted her brother.
Everyone laughed then they set off towards Gringotts.
The goblin guards, resplendent in their scarlet and gold uniforms, bowed to them as they came up the stairs.
The twins paused near the entrance. "Well, come by the shop when you're done here, we need to give you all the tour."
"Alright George, we will see you in a bit then." Harry waved at them as they started off towards the shop.
"OK troops, let's get the shop open again shall we?"
"There are people that need to be pranked out there."
"Thank you all for helping us through the crowd," Hermione called.
"Welcome Hermione!" Ginny called as they all turned to walk back to the shop.
"See you later," Neville waved as he hurried to catch up to walk with Ginny.
Angelina said "Bye, we'll…" and Alicia interrupted her to continue with, "see you later" as they headed off laughing.
"I think those two have been hanging out with Fred and George too much, they are starting to sound like them."
"Well they have been dating them for two years now Harry."
"Really? I thought they were just good friends."
She whispered to him "Yeah just like us, Harry."
He replied sheepishly "Oh, good point."
The four of them passed thru the gold doors and then the silver doors, being bowed to once again by the second pair of guards. Inside Gringotts it was as hectic looking as usual. Several hundred goblins worked diligently while at least a hundred patrons were bustling about. A pair of goblin guards, these carrying battle axes, stood just to the side of the doors. When they saw the four of them enter, the left hand guard immediately stepped forward. "Mister Potter, this way please, you and your party are expected by Senior Solicitor Ripag."
"Oh, ok." Harry, Hermione, Dan, and Emma followed the goblins past the counter. Another pair of guards fell in behind them. The lead guard went to a small silver door and touched it to open it for them. Dan had to duck to pass the doorway but the hall beyond was high enough to walk comfortably. They passed several hundred doors and hallways before they entered a small room. There was no other way out but the goblin in the rear did something and they all felt a lurch. A moment later the door opened and they were in a tower. There were several more guards dressed just like the ones with them. The lead goblin of their escort marched out of the elevator and up to a guard station.
"Potter and party to see Solicitor Ripag, on schedule and on time I may add."
Three goblins who wore very spiky helmets turned and looked at Harry carefully, glancing at his scar before nodding at their guard. They proceeded on; the goblins that had all stopped to watch went back to work. They went around the center of the tower and up to a large golden door. This door opened before they arrived at it, and they were ushered into a large office. A goblin in gold robes sat behind a desk while three others scurried around the room. The gold robed goblin stood when he saw them entering his office.
"Mister Potter, Misses Granger, Mr. Granger, and Mrs. Granger, so good to see you all at last. I am PR Ripag, Senior Gringotts Solicitor. Please have a seat while my assistants fetch some paperwork." He gestured to four human sized plush chairs before his desk.
Harry and Hermione walked to the front two while Dan and Emma sat behind them. "Umm I'm here to get something from you I think?" Harry asked a bit confused still.
"Of course Mister Potter, We will go to the high security ward shortly. I have tried to anticipate your needs and have drawn up the papers I believe you require. One moment please sir." Harry sat there rather confused. He looked at Hermione and saw that she was smiling. He decided to just relax and see what happened, apparently Hermione had guessed as to what Ripag was on about and she was not worried. Dan and Emma were whispering softly behind them but he couldn't catch what they were saying.
The doors on the other side of the room opened and Harry caught a glimpse of many rows of files with goblins scurrying about rapidly. A single goblin walked in carrying a tall stack of papers.
"Ahh Griphook, thank you." Griphook placed the papers on Ripag's desk and went back where he had come from with a quick bow as he retreated. The other three assistants followed him out, closing the door after them.
"Now we may begin. As you are aware I was Sirius Black's solicitor. Working in that capacity I have knowledge of the four of you that very few others are aware of. For starters Dan and Emma are your legal guardians Mister Potter. Here is their signed affirmation of accepting that responsibility." He pulled the top paper off of the stack and showed it to them.
"Second, since you and their daughter are prepared to wed, here is the necessary paperwork for them to sign." He pulled down nearly half an inch of parchments.
"Third you will undoubtedly wish to add Miss Granger to your account. Here are the papers for that." Another inch of parchments was piled before Harry.
"Fourth I have read that you wish to donate the damage award wholly to St. Mungo's. First here are the papers to accept the settlement from the Ministry, and second here is the paperwork for transferring the galleons to St. Mungo's." Two more large stacks of parchment were piled before Harry.
"And finally here are the contracts of service for Dobby and Winky. They agree to work for you until dismissed for the sum of one galleon each per month. They have already signed the appropriate spot's for themselves. This will also allow us to transfer said monthly pay to them." The last of the pile Griphook had brought in was added to the pile before Harry.
He was facing nearly a foot tall stack of parchment. His jaw fell open and he looked very much like a fish out of water. "Umm-oh-wow-err-yeah" was all he could manage to stammer out. PR Ripag sat back in his chair looking rather smug with himself.
"Is there any request which I have failed to predict?"
Hermione chose that moment to become rather hysterical. She jumped up and shouted with glee, clapping her hands excitedly. "Thank you Mr. Ripag, you are a credit to goblin-kind. Thank you very much!" Hermione sat down suddenly, and grabbed Harry's arm in that death-grip he had become so accustomed to over the years. "Oh Harry, don't you see. He just solved all of our legal issues in one go!"
"Oh yeah, I guess he did." The lack of blood to his right arm had apparently shifted more to his brain. He shook himself back to the present and grinned along with Hermione.
"Now am I correct in my assumptions that everyone is in agreement on the issues I have just presented? Dan? Emma? Because of your status you have the right to make void any of these contracts before you." They both looked at each other then shook their heads no. "Very well, let the signing begin."
Harry was not sure if he would ever be able to write again. Only twenty minutes had passed, but he felt he had written one of Snape's three scroll essays. Hermione took his hand and started massaging it for him. He quickly added a mental note to thank her as the pain in his hand rapidly disappeared.
"Very well, that is done. Your key, Miss Granger." He stood and held out a vault key to Hermione. She took it and put it in the pocket of her jeans. "Below us in our highest security vault is a chest entrusted to us by the Chief Warlock himself fourteen years ago, the day after your parents were murdered, Mister Potter. There were three conditions where it was to be turned over to yourself and one further condition to deliver it to Miss Hermione Granger should we be unable to locate you. One of these conditions, the untimely death of Sirius Black is why you are here now. I must inform you that, though I am not human myself, I believe this will be a very emotional experience for you both. Please follow me." He stood and three of the doors to the room opened simultaneously. Six guards entered and stood to the sides of the double doors they had entered through. Griphook and the three assistants entered to collect the paperwork. PR Ripag walked regally out of his office as they scrambled to keep up with him.
Ripag went to the end of the hallway as goblins scurried to get out of his way and open the gates before him. They reached the end of the hallway and a roller coaster station stood before them. Ripag stepped into the first cart that came along, two guards jumped in with him and he was off. The other guards motioned for Harry and Hermione to enter the next cart and they did so. Harry called out to the Grangers, "Hold on tight, it's a wicked roller coaster!"
He wrapped one arm around Hermione and held the bar before him with the other. Hermione copied, looking worriedly at him. He kissed her lips firmly as their cart sped off into the dark tunnel. She clung to him, muttering for the first minute, "I don't like this." Then she settled into his embrace. They rode for several minutes before coming to a stop in another station, miles below London. Solicitor Ripag was waiting for their arrival. Harry climbed out and helped Hermione. Just as their cart sped off another one came along with Dan and Emma. They seemed to have thoroughly enjoyed the entire ride.
"What a wonderful roller-coaster you have here Ripag. You could charge muggles to ride it you know." They climbed out quickly.
"We do…" he began, but apparently Ripag was unwilling to elaborate.
One more cart sped up with the rest of Ripag's guards and he turned to continue on. They went into another tunnel and came to a gate. Harry smelled trolls. Ripag placed his palm on the handle, and through the gate several armed security trolls raised their clubs menacingly. Ripag pushed the gate open and raised his voice to the trolls. "PILLOW!"
They seemed to think very hard for a minute then lowered their clubs. Ripag did not hesitate another moment. He strode off along an iron walkway that was several feet above the floor the trolls were standing on. Hermione once again had Harry's arm in that death grip. But her other hand was on her wand; Harry had his hand on Godric's sword, ready to deal with the trolls if they moved suddenly. He heard the gate clang behind them as they reached another gate. Bill Weasley stood beyond it, looking at them intently. "Solicitor Ripag, Harry, Hermione, Mister and Misses Granger, welcome to goblin hell." Bill bowed to them waved his wand at the gate and it sprung open. Once the last guard had left the troll pen, Bill closed the gate behind them. "Just a minute Solicitor, the Dragons are still being moved."
Emma squeaked "D-Dragons?"
"Yes ma'am. They are being cleared out of the next pen so you can pass through. We wouldn't dream of leaving them in there while you lot went through."
Hermione smiled and said, "Bill, we are going to the twins shop after this, want to join us for lunch? Bring Fleur of course?"
"Sure Hermione, we will see you at the shop. Oh, and Congratulations to you both. Not sure if you heard from Ron or not but Fleur and I are getting married in October."
Harry gave Bill's hand a firm shake. "Wow, no I hadn't heard. Congrats, mate."
"Well then you probably didn't get an owl from him about the first week of August either?" They shook their heads no. "We will all be in France meeting her parents, they will join you the second week at Grimauld Place though." Just then a loud crashing noise echoed down the passage way. Solicitor Ripag strode off down the tunnel. "See you all later then." Bill waved at them as they hurried off to catch up to Ripag.
They passed through an immense open cavern and another gate. An older wizard stood guard beyond the Dragon's cavern. He looked about forty years old and surprisingly carried a sword and wand in a scabbard just like Harry did. The sword was simple though and not miniature. The older wizard's robes were baggy and he held himself like a boxer about to enter the ring. Harry noticed that the goblin guards showed this wizard a lot of respect. Even Solicitor Ripag waited for him to speak before proceeding. "You're identities are confirmed. Please proceed." He stepped back out of the way into a small alcove.
"Thank you, Mage Rawl," Solicitor Ripag replied before proceeding down the passage.
Harry noticed he seemed to be staring at Godric's sword as he passed. Harry bent his head close to Hermione, "Who was that?"
She whispered back, "I don't know Harry, but he looked quite dangerous."
"Ahh, at last we are here." They went around a final bend in the tunnel and came to a gold door. Ripag's guards quickly opened it. It looked like they were back inside the main floor of the bank now. Dozens of goblins hurried around, many of them moving items of apparent great value. "Here," Solicitor Ripag walked through one of the dozens of doors into a small room. The guards stayed outside. There was a small table with a large box on it. The box was covered with a black cloth. Ripag walked over to the box "I will be just outside. When you are ready to leave, that is." He pulled the cover off and immediately strode out of the room closing the door behind him.
Hermione spoke a breathless, "Harry!"
He swiveled his head back to the box and immediately fell to his knees. The box was actually a Hogwarts School trunk. The Gryffindor lion was emblazoned on the front and the name James Potter was in gold above it. Below James name was drawn a heart pierced by an arrow. Lily Evans had been written under the heart.
Dan and Emma moved to leave the room but Hermione motioned them towards the chairs instead. They sat. Hermione put her hands on Harry's shoulders and squeezed reassuringly. He looked up at her, tears streaking his face. "Alright Harry, together then." He nodded, struggled to his feet and walked to the table with her.
Harry touched the trunk and it sprung open. There was a folded letter on top of everything. Hermione picked it up. It was addressed to Harry/Hermione so she opened it and started reading out loud.
Harry,
If you are receiving this prior to your seventeenth birthday then yet another tragedy has befallen us. I find it hard to believe that two of the most wonderful people in this world are no longer with us. In case my death is what has triggered you receiving this chest I must tell you a few things here. There is a prophecy in the Department of Mysteries that involves you. Go there and request to hear it. It is your right to do so. If you have not yet encountered a witch named Hermione Granger, you must seek her out and befriend her immediately. I believe you will understand why someday. She is currently only thirteen months old and yet Fate has much in store for the two of you. Contained in your father's trunk you will find all of your parents' possessions, which survived the destruction of your home. There is a snitch in a box at the bottom; I have enchanted it as a portkey that will take you to their graves at Godric's Hollow. I have seen to their burial there as was their wish and as my duty requires. The portkey will take whoever is touching it with you there and will return you to the main hall in Gringotts.
Albus Dumbledore
Chief Warlock
Harry had been slowly looking through the items in the trunk as she read. He had pulled out several photo albums and laid them next to the trunk. He was currently looking inside a long box that was elegantly carved and had Lily Potter engraved in the top. He had an awed look on his face as he slid slowly to the floor. Hermione dropped the letter and quickly sat with him on the floor. She gently touched his arm to reassure him of her presence as she looked into the box. It was a jewelry box. She saw a pair of watches, several necklaces, and bracelets but her breath caught when she saw the three rings there.
He picked up the ring that bore a single diamond and met her gaze. She was inches away from him but barely heard him say, "Hermione?"
"Of course Harry, I would be honored." She quickly pulled off her mother's engagement ring and dropped it into her lap.
He was trembling as he took her hand and slipped his mother's engagement ring onto her finger, it fit as though it had been made for her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled herself into his lap smiling. Harry quickly put the jewelry box on the ground to hold her to him tightly. They sat together like that for a long time; eventually Harry noticed his legs had fallen asleep. He kissed her cheek lovingly before picking up Emma's engagement ring and helping Hermione up onto a nearby chair. She stared at the engagement ring on her finger and smiled. "Thank you Harry. This means more to me than anything I own." She stood and pulled Harry up; he walked unsteadily to Emma and handed her ring back to her.
"Thank you Emma, It meant a lot to me for her to have a ring in public."
Emma pulled him into a tight hug and kissed him hard on the cheek. "That was beautiful Harry, Hermione is one lucky witch."
Dan reached over and hugged them both. Hermione joined in making the hug complete.
"Well, let's see the ring."
They all untangled from the group hug and Hermione held her hand in front of her mum. "It is just what I would have chosen mum. It's perfect."
"Oh I see what you mean. At first glance it is just a simple ring, but the more you look at it the more complicated it looks."
"Just like Harry and me. To everyone else love seems simple, but to us it's one of the most complicated things there is."
"Somehow I have a feeling that's how James and Lily felt." Dan rubbed her back as he looked adoringly at his daughter.
Harry asked uncertainly, "So you like it or do we still need to go shopping for a new one?"
"Oh Harry, I could never wear another ring now that I have this one. Your mum was wearing this when she died to save you. To me it symbolizes her love for you and now my love for you as well. I will proudly wear it until the day I die."
Harry could not think of anything to say so he hugged her fiercely.
Pulling back she answered him steadily. "We know he will try and kill me now as well as you, so remember our conversation this morning. No more security lapses."
He nodded "Alright, I will tell Professor Dumbledore that we want an intense training program. Maybe he can get some others like Kingsley to come help us duel or something."
"Good idea. Ok is there anything else in that box we should look at now or can the rest wait until we get home?"
"Home? Oh I guess I am starting to feel like Grimauld Place is home too. No I think the rest can keep until tonight. I could and will spend hours looking through that trunk."
"I know Harry, I know." To herself she added, 'and I will be right there with you Harry.' She gave him another quick hug. He put the jewelry box back inside the trunk. She picked up Dumbledore's letter and put it inside as well. Harry closed the trunk, and Dan helped him carry it to the door. It opened as they approached.
As Harry walked out of the room he saw Solicitor Ripag and Dobby waiting for them. One of the guards carried a large book. "Mr. Potter here is a copy of your ledger with Gringotts; it includes copies of all that was signed today." The guard presented the large tome to Harry.
"Harry Potter Sir, I was told to come here today by Headmaster Dumbledore sir."
"Oh Dobby, can you take these home please."
"Of course Harry Potter sir. Anything else you wish?"
"No, I don't think so, just get this back to our room please."
"Yes Harry Potter sir." Dobby took the book from Harry, stepped up and touched the trunk, then he and the trunk simply disappeared.
"What? How can he apparate down here? Isn't there an anti-apparition ward in place?"
"Of course there is Misses Granger. House Elves are not blocked by such things, though."
Hermione was rather surprised by this but Harry remembered Dobby apparating several times back at Hogwarts and Hermione had drilled into him that apparating was simply not possible there. Maybe House Elves were not subject to normal wizarding rules.
"This way please, we will have to follow the same route to get out I'm afraid. Please feel free to contact me should there be anything else with legal ramifications that you would wish to have dealt with. Or if there is any way that I can assist you in your battle with You-Know-Who." He offered his hand to Harry.
Harry quickly took it and though he was small, the goblin had a very strong handshake. "Thank you for everything."
"Yes thank you, this trip has meant a lot to us." Hermione stepped forward and also shook Ripag's hand.
"A pleasure, and may I be so bold, Mrs. Potter. Congratulations once again. It is quite amazing that Rita Skeeter was actually correct about something. It appears those articles on the two of you were actually quite insightful."
Hermione blushed a bit but managed another "thank you" before they headed back towards the mysterious Mage Rawl.
She had just remembered what a mage was; the short definition was combat wizard. They were specially trained to fight; the most famous was certainly Godric himself. There were only a handful of them currently and no one knew just how they were selected or trained. But Gringotts was obviously impressed enough to have one be the final challenge before entering their highest security section. Even more dangerous than several dragons. They were just approaching Mage Rawl himself. He stood poised watching their approach; Hermione once again got the impression of someone prepared to lash out with tremendous force in an instant if it was needed. More like a martial arts master she realized, not a boxer as she had earlier thought. She suddenly reached a conclusion she had been unaware she was moving towards. Pulling a confused Harry along she walked up to Mage Rawl. "Excuse me Mage Rawl, Harry and I need to learn a lot more about combat. How could we be trained to become mages like yourself?"
For a moment she thought he was about to laugh at them, but he spoke deadly serious as he glanced at Godric's sword and looked at Harry's scar. "Would that be Godric Gryffindor's sword Mr. Potter?"
Nervously Harry drew the sword, willing it to full length as he did so. All of the goblin guards looked worried and stepped back. Harry held the sword so that Rawl could read the inscription. "Yes it is, I got it from the Sorting Hat actually when I was fighting the Salazar's Basilisk in my second year. Professor Dumbledore told me never to be without it."
Mage Rawl seemed to reach a decision. "Normally there is a very selective program to make sure of our applicants, but in your case I believe the Mistress of our order would drop that requirement. Can you cast through that sword Mr. Potter?"
"Yes, we both can actually." He shrunk the sword with a thought and then his "Lumos" made the blade of Godric's sword burst into flame. He held it for a moment before his "Nox" turned it back into a sword blade. He handed it to Hermione.
"Reflecto" she slashed the sword downwards. The shining shield appeared before her, even more intense than he remembered. Her "Finite Incantatem" made the shield wink out. She handed the sword back to Harry and he sheathed it.
"That was truly impressive, not one but two. I will speak with the head of the order immediately and inform her of your request. How may we contact you?"
"Professor Dumbledore would be the one most able to get in touch with us," Hermione offered.
"Very well, I will have Alisa speak with the Chief Warlock."
"Well that was very interesting. Shall we proceed, it is nearing your arranged lunch meeting Mr. Potter."
"Oh sure, thank you Mage Rawl." Harry held out his hand to Mage Rawl.
"Call me Michael Mr. Potter." Michael took Harry's hand.
"Only if you stop calling me Mr. Potter. Harry will do just fine."
"Very well, Harry. I hope to see you both again."
The dragons had long since been moved so they hurried through their chamber and to where Bill was waiting for them. He opened the door and shouted "PILLOW!" at the trolls when they approached. The trolls looked disappointed that they were not allowed to bash them into the floor. Another wizard was there with Bill, apparently his relief because Bill preceded them into the troll chamber. "I'll just pick up Fleur from upstairs and meet you at the twins' shop alright?"
"Ok Bill, see you there."
They piled into the roller coasters, once again. Hermione seemed to almost enjoy the return ride. When they were once again all standing on the platform, Solicitor Ripag addressed them all, "Through that door there is the main floor. It was a pleasure meeting you all at last." With a quick wave he headed out another door with his guards.
"Alright Harry." Bill waved at them as he rushed off to get Fleur. They walked back into the maelstrom that was Gringotts main floor and out the front doors.
Apparently word had spread that Harry Potter was at Gringotts because there was a crowd waiting for them at the foot of the stairs, several reporters obviously in attendance. Harry sighed and stepped in front of Hermione. "Hello everyone. I guess making a statement would be a lot quicker than trying to blast my way through all of you so here goes." A small burst of nervous laughter told Harry he had worried them just enough. "I have just visited Solicitor Ripag with my fiancée Hermione and her parents." He gestured quickly behind him "The paperwork has been done and we will be wed soon. We have also given the order to donate the galleons to St Mungo's as I stated earlier. Currently we are heading to our friends' shop Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes for lunch then a little shopping before we depart. That is all I have to say at the moment, we will not be answering any questions just now. Please leave us alone."
Dan took that opportunity to step forward and put his hand on Harry's shoulder. "Hello there, I am Dan Granger and this is my wife Emma," he gestured towards her, "We realize that this may be rather unusual, but these two young adults are rather unusual. My wife and I believe they are fully committed to spending their lives together and to delay their marriage would be pointless. Our daughter has always been very mature, and to tell you the truth, the only boy she has ever talked about is the one she is about to marry. Thank you for your time."
Though several tried to ask questions of them, the crowd did part and let them pass. Maybe it was the fact that Harry had pulled out his wand, or maybe they noticed Hermione had done the same. Whatever the case, they proceeded to the joke shop. George was just pushing out the last customer as they arrived. Harry noticed a large sign proclaiming their hours to be 8am to noon and 1pm until they decided to close.
"Hi there. It's going to be a big lunch I'm afraid. We told mum and dad about it and she's been cooking upstairs for an hour already."
"Oh, that's alright, we saw Bill inside Gringotts so we invited him and Fleur."
"C'mon in, so I can lock this door. Bill has a key. I will give you all the tour while we wait for them to get here."
They all filed inside and George locked the door behind them and flipped the sign to CLOSED as his twin came over and greeted them. "Hey, saw you had a press conference over there. Just can't get away from the press, can you Harry?" Hermione saw Ginny behind the counter and went over to talk to her about something. Her parents were looking around the shop, quite impressed with the displays.
"Maybe he needs a press agent, or someone who can make official statements to the press at least." George offered up helpfully.
"Guys, you think I really need to worry about all that?"
Both of the twins looked like they wanted to say something but George went first. "Yes actually, your image has been raked through the mud. Only Voldy's appearance in front of a flock of Aurors and Fudge last month made them change their tune. Well, I'm sure your interview in The Quibbler started them thinking, but you would not have been mobbed with well wishers if not for his appearance at the Ministry."
"Yeah mate, with Malfoy in prison now most of the negative press should die down. But you're every action will be reported in the Prophet and debated."
Harry couldn't resist taunting the twins with his next bit of news. "Wonder what will happen when they find out Dumbledore has offered me the Defense job this year."
"WHAT?" "NO WAY" "He's finally lost it." "Yeah, completely bonkers now for sure." The twins fired back in rapid succession.
"Harry!" Hermione hissed from across the room, "we're not supposed to tell anyone." She debated and then continued in a normal voice. "OK here's the scoop. He offered but, Fudge put some requirements on it first. Harry has to pass his Defense N.E.W.T., and a practical exam given at the Ministry, both before school starts in September."
They turned back to Harry sympathetically, "Poor Harry doesn't have enough on his shoulders."
"Defeating a Dark Lord not enough work for you mate?"
"Guys, quit teasing me. Hermione figures we can get ready for the N.E.W.T. in time and I'm training with Dumbledore every day to get ready for the practical exam. Yes, I am serious about all of this. If I can't manage this then Voldemort will surely win. I really can't face that option."
"Sorry Harry," George began.
"Yeah mate, we're just joking with you," Fred concluded solemnly. They both looked like someone had just stolen all the pranks in their store.
"Its ok guys, I appreciate you trying to give me a laugh. In fact that's one of the reasons I gave you the money in the first place. I think we are going to need a lot of reasons to laugh before this is over."
Fred and George patted him on the shoulders before speaking up again. "Tour?"
When Harry nodded they both broke out with their infectious grins. "Well here we are in the actual selling area. Along this wall here are bins holding the individual items."
"Notice the animated illusion above each bin demonstrating just what it will do."
"Yeah Flitwick came in just today and complimented us on the 'elegance of our charms.' Maybe we will take him up on the make up N.E.W.T. exam after all."
"Over here are the Skiving Snackboxes, mostly they are a combination of the other prank stuff…"
"…but its cheaper to buy them in the Snackboxes instead of individually."
"Ginny has been helping out front here, while surprisingly Neville has become very adept at shipping out the daily owl orders."
"Still don't understand what he came up with but the Owl Post guys sent him a thank you present."
"Alright, let's head into the back room." Fred motioned for them to follow as he walked through one of the doors at the back of the display area.
"Here is our supply room. Fortunately for us Alicia keeps everything clearly labeled and makes sure that we have everything we need to keep the store going. Over there is the shipping area where Neville works his miracles daily. And just through that door is the front counter again. Behind me are the stairs up to our flat." Just then they heard the front door open and Bill calling out.
"We're here! Oh, there you all are." He held the door for Fleur and locked it behind them. They quickly joined them in the stockroom.
"Hello, Harrry and Herrmione; Soo glad to earr vat you are alzo getting marrieed." Fleur greeted them in mostly understandable English. She was improving after all.
"Hi Fleur, yeah, congratulations yourself." Harry greeted her while Hermione moved automatically before him to shake Fleur's hand. "Pleasure seeing you again Fleur."
"Well, mum will have lunch ready. Let's go upstairs." George spun and quickly ascended the stairs, everyone else quickly followed.
At the top of the stairs was a large open living area with several couches pushed up against the walls. One side was obviously the twins' experiment area. The large dining room table had been extended for lunch and places were set for fourteen people. Alicia and Angelina were still hurrying around trying to bring some order to the flat they shared with the twins. Neville was carrying two large dishes to the table from the kitchen. Mrs. Weasley, who came hurrying out of the kitchen, also bore a steaming dish in each hand.
"Thank you Neville dear, such a helpful lad." Then, looking up, she noticed the nine of them had come upstairs. "Oh good, just in time. Everyone sit down, oh where is Arthur?" They all started sorting out where to sit. Harry was about to sit next to Fleur, but Hermione slipped into the chair just after he pulled it out. She muttered a thank you to him so he took the next chair and found himself between Hermione and Emma, Dan was just beyond Emma. Mrs. Weasley sat beside Dan leaving the end of the table free for Mr. Weasley. Bill took the seat at the other end of the table next to Fleur. Across the table were George, Alicia, Angelina, Fred, then Neville and Ginny.
Harry made a mental count and realized that there were thirteen of them. Trelawney's prediction on that went through his head. But, at that moment Arthur Weasley apparated into the middle of the living room. "Sorry I'm late; had a minor emergency to deal with." He took off his hat and moved to sit at the head of the table. "Oh Hello there Harry, been a busy week hasn't it?" Without further explanation he sat. "Well you weren't all waiting on me, were you? Tuck in already."
Everyone moved at once to do just that. Harry, who was starving, began eating with vigor. He noticed that Dan and Emma were in a heated conversation with Mrs. Weasley. He realized it was probably about him and Hermione but decided to let them try to reason with her first. Hermione was talking to Fleur and he noticed they were comparing engagement rings. Harry noticed that though everyone seemed to be talking, Neville and Ginny were not. They seemed very nervous, almost like they would rather not be sitting so close at the crowded table. He watched them cautiously for a while. They started quietly talking to each other; maybe that Yule ball date had started something after all?
Suddenly Hermione spoke up to the twins. "Have you thought of opening a shop in Hogsmeade when school starts up in September guys? At least for the weekends when school lets out."
"Actually yes, we had been talking about that for a while," George brightly answered.
"But we don't have the capital to stock a second shop or to pay the employees to watch it," Fred lamented.
With a broad grin Hermione replied "Now you do. Will another thousand galleon's do it, or do you need more?"
The look on the twins' faces was priceless. Both of them dramatically keeled over backwards in their chairs, toppling onto the ground. They quickly sprung up and ran around the table hooting in glee. Hermione was suddenly kissed soundly on both cheeks as they each pumped a hand up and down thanking her. Harry looked on in amusement at their antics. Then he spoke over them "I just put her on my account an hour ago and she is already giving away my money. What's a bloke to do?" He shook his head dramatically and sighed. He only managed a straight face for a few seconds before he burst out in laughter.
Hermione looked stricken at Harry's disapproving words but when he laughed she joined in. The twins were beside themselves thinking of the possibilities. "Hermione what made you suddenly approve of our shop?"
Hermione suddenly turned very serious. "Well Fred, I have come around to Harry's view of the whole thing. We are going to need a lot of reasons to laugh until this war is over."
"Dear child you shouldn't concern yourself with the war. Let the adults handle it," Mrs. Weasley said suddenly.
At Mrs. Weasley's words Harry suddenly stood. Clearly enraged he forced a calm tone into his voice. "You can't possibly be serious about that Mrs. Weasley. What are we supposed to do? Go off to America until we grow up while Voldemort kills all of you off? No! I will not let that happen. I have been fighting Voldemort for years now. Because of this scar, I have an almost daily battle with Voldemort to see who can cause the other more pain. Why did Voldemort attack us at Sirius's memorial? Because I pissed him off and he wanted revenge, that's why. Well that night, with Hermione's help I got even with him. I wonder if he can even talk yet. Any chance I had at a normal childhood ended when he killed my parents." At each mention of Voldemort everyone at the table except the Grangers and Hermione, flinched as though poked with a hot iron.
Hermione put her hand on Harry's forearm and pulled him softly down into his seat. There was a stunned silence in
the room as no one dared speak. Hermione, always the calm voice of reason continued where Harry had left off. "We
want you all to know that we, Harry and I, are preparing to face Voldemort as quickly as we can. He is out there even
now killing innocent people, both muggles and magic-born alike. Someone must stop him; everything points to Harry being
that someone. Harry has sworn to face Voldemort and I will stand with him. If I must sacrifice my life as Lily did,
then I will. If that is the price for destroying Voldemort then I am ready to pay it."
Emma was crying quietly into Dan's shoulder, with his arms around her when Hermione finished, otherwise the silence within the room was stifling. Harry was trying to calm himself down to speak. Mr. Weasley cleared his throat. "Harry we do support you, it's just that you should enjoy yourself while you can. Have you spoken with Albus about all of this then?"
Harry was still too upset to speak so Hermione answered. "We are training with him every day; soon we will also be training with the Mages. So the answer is yes, Professor Dumbledore is well aware of all of this and more."
"Blimey, he has not mentioned this in any of our meetings; not that I doubt you at all dear. It's a lot to take in all at once you know."
Surprising everyone Neville spoke up "I want to get into that training program too Harry. I have a new wand now and Mr. Olivander says it's much better for me. Please ask Professor Dumbledore if I can be included. I want to come with you when you go to face him."
Neville's words sent a chill down Harry's spine and he suddenly forgot his anger. "Alright Neville, I will ask him for you today."
That seemed to put an end to the arguments for now. Everyone went back to finishing their lunch and all too soon it was time again to open the shop. Silently they all went downstairs to let the crowd inside. Then Mr. Weasley got up, and with a quick goodbye, he apparated back to the ministry. Bill and Fleur had to go just after that. Alicia and Angelina quickly started to clean up the mess from lunch. They all stood and suddenly Mrs. Weasley pulled Harry and Hermione into a crushing hug.
She pulled back a moment to talk to them. "Alright, I need to apologize to you both, I just wish you could both enjoy your time as children but I see that just isn't possible." She hugged them again then released them to go help the girls clean up the mess.
"Well, fancy some shopping to get your minds off of this for a while kids?"
"No mum, let's just go home for now, we can come back later. I think Harry needs a little time to relax before the training this afternoon."
Harry sighed deeply "Yeah that sounds good, I need a break from all this. Don't guess I will actually get one but a few hours of peace would be good."
"Alright, home it is then." Dan headed downstairs briskly and out into the now bustling shop. Emma, Hermione, and Harry followed along seemingly lost in thought.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
A/N I have posted an alternate beginning to this story. The question was posed to me, 'What would have happened if Dumbledore had not acted on Hermione's letter?' It is under the Portkey H/Hr forum Ficlets and Cookies. Title is Alternate beginning for Summer of Despair and Hope; this would replace the first five chapters or so. I have a few other alternate scenes I will eventually post there. As I mentioned in a review on Summer, when I finish a chapter of Summer and give it to my beta's to read I will try and write another chapter of Secret. Secret is not beta'ed and I write the chapters in just one night. There will be mostly fluff in Secret and I am trying to keep it light, sweet, and humorous.
Currently Summer will be about 30 chapters. That will probably expand as I have to break some things into their own chapters that are currently in the same chapter of my Outline. This will not be the end as I do plan on continuing this story with a sequel.
In case anyone is curious about what I read. My favorites are Heather Sinclair's Sacrifices to be Made and the sequel Professor's Perils. Rachel Prong's Beyond Boundaries is an awesome AU fic, my only issue is Hermione believing Harry was guilty, she would in my opinion believe Harry like Sirius did. Anything by Romulus Lupin or Parker, Taste by Kate J. is the best Shagging Fic I have ever encountered.
Thanks for reading and please leave your comments in a review. I do pay close attention to them; feel free to email me with questions or comments as well.
Gol