Unofficial Portkey Archive

Chapter 22: Schedule Time

(12:01am somewhere in Switzerland)

Mr. Lovegood was late as Ron and Luna had been sitting for nearly four hours now. The temperature had continued to drop and he was sure snow would be falling before sunrise. As long as they kept the blankets around them they stayed quite warm though. Surely there was a warming charm on them. He was now intimately familiar with her breasts, everything except what they looked like that is. He knew just how she liked to be caressed; he had actually made her purr into his ear. He reflected that this was a major accomplishment for a bloke who had never done anything like this until tonight.

She had made sure he knew what she liked and was well aware of the affect she had on him. Father should have been here by now. One good deed deserved another. He had been very diligent in keeping her warm and pleased. She decided to take care of his problem for him. She had read that boys would actually be in pain if kept aroused for an extended time without release. She pulled away from him and turned around.

Startled he whispered "Did I do something wrong?"

She whispered back as she traced her hand down his chest to his bulging pants. "Shh, it's alright Ronald; let's see what I can do for you now, that probably hurts doesn't it?"

She pressed her cheek against his, one of her butterbeer cap earrings hit his nose, and she felt him nod yes.

Calmly she unbuckled his pants and pulled them off as he automatically lifted himself from the blankets. She had pulled down his boxers at the same time so he had been released to stand erect. He struggled to keep them both covered with the blanket.

She brought her head back up next to his; and pressed her cheek against his again. "Relax Ronald, I think I know what to do here, help me if you think I should do something different. She found his erection with her hand and started stroking it slowly. He gasped loudly, "Shh, no noise Ronald." She felt him nod again so she started stroking him quicker. "Good?" Again he nodded yes, his breathing had become ragged. Then she tucked her head under the blanket, both of her hands started working his shaft. One of her hands gently grasped his pulsing jewels that did him in; he bit his tongue to keep from making noise. He felt the beginnings of his explosion; it was going to be very messy under the blanket in a moment. Suddenly he felt her mouth cover him tightly; as he spent himself she kept her mouth there. There would be no mess for father to notice, she made sure of that. He whimpered once, quietly. She made sure he was done before releasing him and bringing her cheek up next to his again.

"Are you alright Ronald?" He nodded slowly so she disappeared under the blanket again, this time helping him put his boxers and pants back on. Quickly she retrieved her jumper and pulled it on before she sat down in his lap facing him and put her arms around his chest. Her legs were wrapped around his waist and she was sitting very comfortably in his lap.

His mind seemed stuck, it kept repeating things. 'Luna just gave me a blowjob; Luna just gave me a blowjob, Luna…' He was startled out of his revere when she whispered. "Do you feel better now Ronald?"

He answered quickly, "Yes, I think I'm in shock. That was amazing."

"Thank you, it's a good thing father's magazines are so descriptive and well, visual. Besides I caused it so it was the least I could do."

"Luna, I have a confession to make, I have never been, um, in a relationship with a girl before."

"Well until I met you last year I had never been interested in anyone. Everyone just seemed to see Looney, not Luna. You were different from the start. Your best friend is the most famous wizard in the world, if you can see a boy that needs help instead of a hero maybe you could see Luna through Looney?"

He snorted, "Ha, no one could ever be more famous than Harry. Do you know he is also very rich? I have seen his vault at Gringott's. Piles and piles of galleons, I wonder if anyone has more money than he does. I'm a nobody, between Bill, Charlie, Percy, and even Fred and George, what can I do to compare to them? So I was a Prefect, Percy and Bill were both Prefects. So I'm a decent keeper, my brothers are better Quidditch players, I know, I have been playing against them for years."

She couldn't stand to hear him knock himself down so much. She focused her attention on where his eyes should be and whispered fiercely. "Ronald, I don't ever want to hear you knock yourself down like that again. You are a very nice person, what else matters? If you want good grades then study more, if you want to be better at Quidditch then practice more, if you want more money then invent something like your brothers did. If you keep comparing yourself to everyone around you then you will never feel you have done anything. Ask Professor Dumbledore if he thinks he is the greatest wizard of this age, I did. What do you think he said? 'Certainly not, Nicholas for one is a much better alchemist than I am.' There are always those better than you at something, Ask Viktor Krum if he is the best seeker in the world, I dare you. I guarantee you he will have someone that he admires. We must each find our own way to be who we are, not whom we are not."

The fire in her delivery would have made him take several steps back had he been able to. He squirmed, "I just don't know what to do really."

"Start with being yourself, the rest will follow. If you want a study partner I would be glad to tutor you. Hermione Granger is not the only one who reads ahead you know."

"Really? You think you could do that?"

"Professor Vector, in Arithmancy, compared one of my papers with one Hermione wrote in her fourth year. What bothers me though is the Sorting Hat put her in Gryffindor. That can only mean that she is braver than she is smart, that's a very scary thought. It's probably one of the reasons she can deal with Harry, you know. No one else is brave enough to stand with him, face what he has to face, and still help him to do it."

"I will!"

"Oh Ronald, you're very sweet but we don't stand a chance against a horde of Death Eaters, much less Voldemort. We may be able to help them get there but it will be up to them to finish it."

Ron's reply was cut off by a soft pop signaling the arrival of Mr. Lovegood. "Kids?"

"Yes Father we're here. Give us a minute to get our shoes on and roll up the blankets."

"Alright, here have some light though." A small blue flame appeared just above the shrub they were under. It took them a few minutes to adjust to the light. Mr. Lovegood pulled out their brooms and then summoned another light above the trail they had landed on earlier.

"Did you get any shots?"

"No Snorkacks just a few deer came along the trail."

"I came up empty too, almost like we are looking in the wrong place. Oh well, we should try this again tomorrow night somewhere else."

Luna groped Ron through his pants as she replied to her father. "Yes father, I think so as well."

Ron choked out "Yeah sure."

While they were talking they quickly pulled their coats and boots back on. Then they rolled up the blankets and tucked them back into their bags. Just before climbing out of the shrub they bumped heads. Luna grabbed his neck and quickly pressed her lips against his cheek in a soft kiss. She whispered into his ear. "We'll have to do this again tomorrow night, it was fun." He felt her let go and heard her scamper out of the bushes.

He picked up his Omnioculars and stuffed them into his bag before following her out. Mr. Lovegood was holding his hand out. "Put my hand on your head, and then I can cancel the Disillusion spell." Luna must have done so as his arm moved then a moment later he tapped his wand next to his hand and she faded into existence, as though water was washing off the disillusion from the top down. "Ok your turn Ronald, where are you?"

"Here." He took Mr. Lovegood's hand and placed it onto his own head. A moment later he was tapped hard by the wand and faded into existence.

Luna stepped in front of him and grinned broadly before she handed him his broom. As they flew slowly back to the tent Ron pondered. "Do these things exist? Do I care? No not really, but if Luna wants to keep hunting like that then I will spend as many nights as she wants hunting for them."

*** *** *** ***

As was their habit Dan and Emma were up at the crack of dawn. Winky had their breakfast ready for them and Dobby had somehow retrieved their post. They chatted quietly as they ate. Hermione had mentioned shopping again today; there were so many interesting things in Diagon Alley to look over. Harry and Hermione stumbled into the kitchen a few minutes later. Neither of them had prepared for the day yet, they both had long cotton robes on and looked rather tired still.

Emma greeted them warmly. "Good morning, oh my you two need more sleep."

Dan winked at his wife, "Funny? Dear do you remember any loud activities lastnight? I swear they must have gone straight to bed."

"Well no I don't believe I did notice anything, then again love you are rather good at distracting my attention you know."

"Why thank you love" He leaned over and kissed her lips soundly before leaning back and watching Harry and Hermione for their reaction to the teasing.

Yawning widely Harry and Hermione sat at the table as Winky brought them their breakfast. Hermione looked up at her parents then lazily replied. "Actually it seemed quite loud where I was laying." She grabbed Harry's chin and kissed him passionately, though half asleep this seemed to finally get him awake. He quickly caught on and finished the display for her parents.

When they broke apart he mumbled loudly "Yes quite loud I recall."

Dan and then Emma started chuckling quietly as Harry and Hermione started on their breakfast. Smiles played around all four of their faces as they sat and ate a quiet breakfast.

"Mum I was thinking about asking Remus to go shopping with you both today. What do you think?"

"Well dear we would like to go with the two of you but if you plan on studying today a trip to Diagon Alley is hardly going to help."

"That's how we were thinking about it Emma. We really need peace and quiet to get anything accomplished."

"Was there anything we could buy for you while we are there?"

"I don't think so dad, we don't have our book assignments for next semester yet. Oh Harry, we need to pick a DA book for next term. Well one for each grade level."

"How about Moody's for the fifth through seventh years? Not sure about the lower years though."

"That's a good idea, I need to look through the collection, when Dobby is done with it tonight that is. I will give you a few suggestions before bedtime. I can't believe I didn't think of this earlier. Professor McGonagall is surely waiting for that list before sending out the letters for next term!" She ended obviously quite frustrated at her own lack of foresight.

Harry quickly draped his arm over her shoulders and squeezed her briefly. "Mione letters don't go out for another three weeks, relax."

She visibly calmed and smiled shyly at him before speaking. "Oh, that's right. Tonight will be fine then I guess."

"Yes dear." He kissed her cheek quickly then went back to his breakfast. Twenty minutes later when they were done Harry stood first, "We need to go shower then get studying, see you in a bit."

Dan chuckled as they stood to leave. "Alright Harry."

Hermione stood and took Harry's proffered hand as they headed back up to their room. Once there Harry locked the door then immediately started helping her shed her clothes as they headed towards the shower. He pulled off his robe and boxers as they got to the bathroom door. She pulled herself to him and started kissing his bare shoulder, he started the water and they stepped into the cascading stream. Once they were in the water she faced him and started kissing his neck. He turned her so the water drenched her long hair, as she continued to kiss his neck and chest he took up her shampoo. They deftly turned so the water now hit his back he poured a large helping of the shampoo onto his hand and started massaging it into her hair.

Hermione loved their daily routine. It was absolute bliss to have Harry wash her hair. He took such care and spent the time she had never bothered to. While he massaged the shampoo into her hair she started lathering him up with the bar of soap. She covered all the 'important spots' as Harry called them. His hands stopped their work and he groaned while she washed his erection. They spun back so the water could wash her hair clean, when the shampoo was gone she stepped behind him and he ducked his head under the water. She had the shampoo ready for him when he stood back up and quickly lathered his hair up for him.

Now that the soap had been washed from him he turned to face her and took up the soap. Soon her body was covered with many small bubbles as he lathered her from head to toe. Once he had finished soaping her up they spun again and rinsed clean once more. He slid around behind her and placed his erection between her legs. She lifted her left leg, put her foot onto the edge of the tub, and leaned forward as he held her hip with his right hand and slowly slipped himself inside her. They stayed still for a moment and she put her leg back on the ground as he grabbed her other slippery hip tightly.

She put her hands against the wall and pushed back towards him, pushing him the rest of the way inside. He started moving slowly at first then quickened the pace. She moaned her pleasure while the water continued to stream over their glistening bodies. Her hips were very good handles but he had to grip very tightly, she didn't seem to mind though. Several minutes later she convulsed around him and that made him explode. He ground himself deeply inside her until he was spent.

They stood there a little longer, both tried to catch their breath and rest before untangling themselves. He leaned forward and grasped both of her dangling breasts. He pulled her up so she was standing once again. She twisted her head around and kissed his cheek, then he turned his head and they shared a slow deep kiss. They spoke no words yet there was perfect understanding. Reluctantly he slipped his deflating member out of her. She found the soap and faced him again. Again she gently lathered his privates and rinsed him clean. He shivered at the intensity of her touch. Though he was mostly hard again they reluctantly turned off the water and stepped out of the shower.

Hermione quickly dried off and got dressed. "I need to go talk to Remus about today."

Still only in a towel he stopped drying his hair to answer. "Ok, I'll be down shortly."

She gave him a lingering kiss. Her wet hair still wrapped up in a towel she headed for the door. "Alright love"

She found Remus sitting in the parlor, today's Daily Prophet before him, a steaming mug of coffee in his hand. "Remus can you escort my parents to Diagon Alley to go clothes shopping this morning?"

He looked up from his paper, "Clothes?"

She sat on the couch across from him before continuing. "Well as long as they are stuck in the wizarding world they should look the part don't you think?"

He folded the paper and put it on the table between them "Well I guess."

"Good while you are there I want you to buy an entire new wardrobe as well. Winky will come with you all to pay for it. Don't skimp on anything, either for yourself or my parents. You all need new clothes alright?"

He sipped his coffee before answering. "If that's what you want Hermione, I would be glad to. It's been ages since I was able to afford anything."

"Remus, I didn't hire you out of pity, we spoke about this already. You are one of the few people we can trust, I trust you to keep my parents safe. Today is on Harry and I, you have a job now and we're not about to fire you."

He held his hands up in surrender. "Ok, I understand." He ticked off her points as he mentioned them on his long fingers. "Three new wardrobes, Winky along to transport and pay for the items. Is there anything else that you want us to purchase today?"

"No I think that should do it, Dobby will be working on the book order. That's all I can think of currently. Harry and I will be starting on our homework today, just be back in time for the training with Professor Dumbledore today at four. Oh, is Professor Snape making your Wolfsbane potions?"

Remus looked skeptical "Well he is supposed to be."

"Well buy those ingredients as well, there has to be a potions lab somewhere in this house, I will get a batch going also."

He took another sip of his coffee then asked. "It's a very complicated potion Hermione, are you sure you can make it right?"

She crossed her arms before her. "Remus, I brewed a Polyjuice potion in my second year in the girls' toilet. Wolfsbane is a lot easier than that one was. If it worries you I will get Professor Snape to certify it and Dobby to prepare a room for you. You are not leaving this house for any of that time."

He sighed in defeat. "The potions lab is in the second basement, below the kitchen. There are several bedrooms there as well; Sirius and I converted one for my transformations already. It will be a lot lonelier without Padfoot to keep me company though." Remus drifted off, obviously thinking about the loss of his good friend, suddenly he snapped back to present and cleared his throat. "Thank you for your concern, only Albus has had any interest in my welfare."

"Welcome, there are two basements to this house?"

He drained the last of his coffee and set the mug on the table next to the Prophet. "Four actually, the first is the kitchen and food storage rooms, the second is the potions lab and several bedrooms, third and fourth are mostly storage rooms for furniture and the like."

"Oh, I guess there is a lot more to this house that we haven't discovered yet."

"I will have to give you a tour or Dobby and Winky can. A house-elf knows everything about the house they are bonded to."

"Bonded?"

"That's how they can control the access to the house and such. Harry is the owner, when you are wed you will become the co-owner. Dobby and Winky are the bonded elves to the house."

"Thank you Remus, you will certainly help us a lot, there is so much we just don't understand yet. That's one disadvantage of both of us growing up muggles."

He smiled his first genuine smile in a while as he stood. "It's my job Ma'am." He bowed to her, and retreated quickly as she tried to slap his arm in protest.

Harry was just coming out of their room upstairs when he saw Tonks, at the far end of the hall, coming out of Remus' bedroom. He was rather surprised at first, and then remembered she was in the Order and Professor Dumbledore had probably let them know they could once again use this as their headquarters. Just what was she doing in Remus' room however was a mystery. She was dressed somberly, though her hair was a bright purple.

"Wotcher, Harry" she called out waving to him from down the hall.

He stopped to wait for her at the stairs. "When did you get here?"

"Had to work late, I still have the night shift. Got in about two this mornin, Dumbledore told us this was headquarters again." She gestured back over her shoulder, towards Remus' door. "Bet you're wondrin what I was doin in there. Well guess I can tell ya now, I bunk with Remus cause… Well cause I bunk with Remus I guess."

Harry started blushing once he understood Tonks meaning.

"Now Harry I thought you was an educated man on that subject now. Gonna have to talk to Hermione about that, she's been lax."

He held his hands up to forestall her continuing with that threat. "No, I understand your meaning. So you and Remus are in love?"

She took a step back and exclaimed. "Merlin! What gave you that idea?" Then she seemed to contemplate that profound word before continuing. "Well, guess we never talked bout it really, more like we're comfortable with each other and all."

Remus rescued him from further embarrassment when he spoke up from the base of the stairs below them. "Nymphadora, want to come to Diagon? My employer here…" he gestured to Hermione who had just walked into the entry hall from the parlor. "…is sending me shopping."

She shuddered briefly at the mention of her first name then looked over the railing at him before answering. "Sorry Lupin, got to be at the Ministry by noon, well I can go with you, then head over from there I guess."

"Good you can help me pick out my new wardrobe; apparently I'm too threadbare for such an important household." He fanned his robe out to emphasize its condition.

Hermione's exasperated "Remus!" was drowned out by Tonks hearty laugh.

"Well at least she is honest Lupin." Tonks headed down the stairs winking at Harry as she left. Hermione slapped Remus lightly on the shoulder as she passed him. He grabbed his shoulder and rubbed it in apparent pain. Hermione ignored his show and continued up the stairs towards Harry.

Dan and Emma emerged from the kitchens into the entry. "We heard the racket, are we all set to go then?"

"Yes daddy, Remus and now Tonks will accompany you. Winky!" The little house-elf appeared on the stairs beside Hermione when she was called.

"Yes Misses Hermione?"

Hermione knelt on the stairs next to Winky. "I want you to go with Remus, Tonks, and my mum and dad to Diagon Alley today. You can authorize payment to the shops right?"

"Yes Misses, Winky can."

"Alright, I want Remus and my parents to have a complete new wardrobe before the day is done. I also need the components for brewing Remus' Wolfsbane potion please. If you or Tonks find something of interest feel free to purchase it alright."

"Yes Misses, is there a budget for today?"

"Hmm how about a hundred galleons per wardrobe, will that cover a decent set of clothes?"

Remus and Tonks both looked surprised at that so she figured it was enough to start with at least. "Ok try that, four hundred galleons for the day, be back before four this afternoon please."

"Yes Misses Hermione." Winky bowed quickly then disappeared only to appear at the front door. She opened it for them all to start heading out. When they were gone Hermione continued up the stairs to Harry who was crouched down speaking with Dobby. She started unwrapping her hair from its towel, it was mostly dry now.

"Ok you think we will need still more room?"

"Yes Harry Potter sir, the books we haves in there now filles it. Including Misses Hermione's that is Sir."

"Ok well take everything but the master suite and add it all to the library then, will that do it Dobby?"

"I think so sir, I will fix that then start bringing over the books as I haves room to put them."

"Ok Dobby thank you, Hermione and I will be studying in the parlor then while you work. Let us know if you have any questions alright?"

"Yes Harry Potter sir." With a brisk bow he disappeared.

As Harry stood up Hermione startled him with a question. "Do you still keep that basilisk fang in your trunk?"

Harry appeared to be mildly surprised at the question but he answered none-the-less. "Yes, I have it."

She bit her lower lip briefly, "Let's go into our room, I want to discuss something."

"Sure" He led the way inside and waited for her to close and lock the door. They had made sure this room was silenced after the embarrassing incident with her parents. "What is it dear?"

She draped her towel over the back of a plush chair before turning towards him. "There is a potion we may want to try. The Black library is like the restricted section back at school. I read about this potion back in second year, it's in Moste Potente Potions. I saw that book in the library earlier."

That book held some of the most powerful potions in existence, a little apprehensively he inquired. "What does this one do?"

She took a deep breath before she continued. "It binds one soul to another; this like everything in that book is banned by the Ministry. This potion was declared dark magic in 1654 but I think we should think about it seriously. Now that I know how the killing curse kills, this would make you immune to it. At least I think it would." She finished a bit apprehensively.

He thought for a few minutes before asking "What do you mean 'it binds one soul to another' exactly."

"Well the killing curse kills you by breaking the link between your body and soul. This potion would move that link from your body to mine. The point being if or rather when you are hit with it there is nothing for it to do to you. The down side is that if I get hit with the killing curse…"

"…Then we both die instantly." Harry finished her sentence for her. She nodded her head in acknowledgment. He sat down on the edge of the bed and looked out the window while he thought. She came over to him and snuggled up against him. She wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned her head on his shoulder. Several minutes later he sighed and spoke very quietly. "Give me the details dear."

"It is very simple really, once bound to me, you will also feel what I feel. Be it pain, pleasure, happiness or heartache. If I experience it so will you. You should be able to block most of it with Occulmency though. This potion was originally created to ensure the loyalty of vassals to the monarch. The vassals would die if the monarch did, thus their desire to stay true to him would be immense."

"Will I feel any different? Like I'm not in my body or anything, like when we do the legimancy thing and join our minds."

"I don't think so, the description would have pointed out something like that I think. It wouldn't have fit the original point of the potion, to ensure loyalty of vassals to the monarch."

"Is this permanent or will it need to be renewed periodically like the Polyjuice?"

"It lasts for two hundred years, other than Nicholas and his wife; the life expectancy among wizard-kind is about one hundred and twenty five years."

He turned away from the window and met her gaze. "Alright, let's get to it. What do we need, one basilisk fang, got that."

She still looked apprehensive. "Are you sure Harry?"

"Yes, if you died I wouldn't want to live so that's alright. Since your heart is mine you will never feel heartache, pleasure and happiness I wouldn't mind those. As to pain I am certainly no stranger to that, if I can block it enough so I can still function then I will be fine. Hermione, this is what I need your help for in this war. Anything that you can think of to give me an advantage over Voldemort I want. I will do whatever it takes to destroy him, except sacrifice you." He cupped her chin within his left hand while he put his right hand on her shoulder, squeezing gently. "I will never pay that price for anything, if I can't keep you alive while I destroy him then I don't care if he wins or not. Understand me?"

She slowly nodded her head; he dropped his hand from her chin. "Yes, I guess I am just surprised that you would trust me enough to do this." When he started to protest she held her hand up and silenced him with her finger on his lips. "Let me finish. Yes, if our situations were reversed I would trust you with my very soul so I gladly accept this burden."

"Ok good, shall we get started then?"

"While we are on the subject of advantages I have one more for you." She pulled out her wand and offered it to him handle first. He took it raising his eyebrows. "Wave it."

He did so, and as his had done back in Ollivanders' red and gold sparks flew out of the tip. He looked back at her, wonder in his eyes.

"My wand also has a Phoenix feather core, unlike yours it does not come from Fawkes though. If you duel Voldemort with my wand you will actually be able to duel instead of getting caught in the Priori Incantatem struggle. Give me your wand; I will use it from now on. That will also give me some protection from Voldemort, though I will get caught in the struggle of wills maybe that will give you the shot you need to kill him."

He pulled his wand out and handed it over to her, she already knew it worked just fine for her so she slipped it into her sheath and grinned at him. "Ready to get started on that potion now?"

"Where are we going to brew it, I guess we could setup something in here." He trailed off when she shook her head no.

"There is a potions lab in the sub-basement, under the kitchen apparently. Remus was telling me earlier when I asked him about his Wolfsbane potion. Apparently there is also a room down there for his transformations."

"Oh, good. Guess we should tell Dobby we will need those rooms cleaned up soon as well."

"I hate to keep giving them so much work you know."

"I know dear but they wouldn't know what to do if there was nothing to clean or sort."

She stood and took out his wand, then unlocked the door. "Well let's go see how he is doing upstairs then and fetch that book." His wand disappeared back into her sheath and she held her hand out to him.

He stood and took her hand, together they walked upstairs to find Dobby.

The third floor had changed, only a small landing remained at the top of the stairs. The alcove which led to the master suite was directly before them. The grand door into the master suite had been freshly polished like most of the manor. The wall where the door to the Room of Requirement would appear remained unchanged but, both hallways were gone. The door into the library was the only other door visible but it had also moved.

They walked into the library. Though it had been expanded the shelves were still clearly crowded. Hermione walked directly to the back and down the aisle to the left. There she picked up the book and flipped through the potion descriptions. He saw her flip past the Polyjuice then stop a few pages later. She sat on the floor and he sat close to look over her shoulder at the description.

Oath Potione (Also referred to as Sanctuary)

This potente potion will transfer the soul of the drinker to the host. The drinker cannot be slain in a traditional manner from then on. Unless disintegrated they may be reconstituted and healed back to functionality. Lost limbs may be reattached, organs replaced etcetera. Should reconstitution or healing not be applied in a timely manner the body of the drinker may become unusable for animation. In several instances apparently the drinker was able to animate the body of another who had recently departed. The drinker will feel any pain inflicted upon them normally but since their soul is now hosted by another they cannot die. Should the host be slain the drinker will die instantly.

First concocted by Beor the Wise in 1243. He first used it on himself to prove his loyalty to his liege-lord. When his liege was assassinated three years later Beor fell over, dead. The popularity dramatically increased after such a convincing demonstration; soon liege-lords throughout Britain were requiring their vassals to drink it to prove their loyalty. It made for some rather messy wars as the liege-lord stayed safe in his fortress while his men went and died. Well sort of… Apparently the liege could drink this with his heir and all of the souls bound to him would transfer to the heir, thus allowing the continuance of the line. The affects appear to dissipate after two hundred years, this is speculation based on the heirs of liege-lords feeling the souls of long lost drinkers leave them.

It fell out of use shortly after Veritaserum was developed in 1509.

Either participant may drink the potion once it is completed. Should both drink it they shall both die. The drinker of this mixture will feel mildly disoriented for a brief time. Then they will notice nothing untoward unless the one to whom they are bound is injured or slain. When the host is injured the drinker will be similarly afflicted with pain, though not suffer the actual injury.

Should the drinker and the soul-holder be of opposite sex a third affect develops. The drinker will be subject to the emotions of the host and the host will in some cases be similarly affected.

Required components and brewing directions.

1 cup of Blood from both participants

3 ounces of Powdered Basilisk Venom

1 cup diced mandrake

1 fresh Ashwinder egg

Warm the mixed blood until boiling, stirring thrice. Sprinkle the powdered basilisk venom over the boiling blood, it will change to orange, allow it to simmer for a day, then cover with a layer of finely diced mandrake, continue simmering for three days then allow to cool for three hours, now add a fresh Ashwinder egg, when the green fumes stop it must be drunk within one hour or it becomes poisonous to all.

Use of this potion in blackmail caused the Ministry to declare it Dark Magic and ban its brewing in 1654.

She looked over at his face when she had read through the description. His brow was furrowed in concentration as he studied the description intently. She waited for him to look at her, when their eyes met she asked. "Well, just as I remembered. Other than the Basilisk Venom all are rather easy components."

He looked deep into her eyes. "Yes, you could also feel my emotions. Are you ready for that?"

She shifted her legs around to face him directly and took both his hands with hers. "Yes, I'm ready for anything you want to give me." Then she grinned and added "Except children, let's get through N.E.W.T.S first."

They suddenly heard Dobby working around the corner. Hermione closed the book and Harry stood then helped her up. He whispered into her ear, "You're the one doing the prevention spell; you decide when to get pregnant. Meanwhile I think I will keep trying."

She hugged him close and whispered to him. "You be sure to do that Mr. Potter."

He slid his hands down to her tight butt and squeezed hard with both hands. She lifted off the ground with the force he exerted. He growled into her throat. "I will, I will."

She squirmed briefly then brought her mouth to his. They shared a slow impassioned kiss only ending when they once again heard Dobby just around the corner. He let her slide to the ground then released her. She stooped quickly and picked up the book from the floor. He strode briskly around the corner. "Dobby?"

Dobby stopped working when he saw them. "Master and Misses, the work is not done yet." He moved to hit himself over the head with the book he was carrying. Harry snatched the book away before he could try to punish himself though.

"That's alright Dobby, we did not expect you to be done yet. We will need the potions lab in the sub-basement usable soon. I also want you to fetch a finely diced Mandrake once the lab is ready. Both of those tasks can wait for the library to be finished however. Do not tell anyone about the Mandrake please. Winky may know no one else."

"Yes Harry Potter sir, I will do the lab tonight and fetch the Mandrake first thing tomorrow. Will that be soon enough sir?"

"Excellent, thank you Dobby."

"The room looks good so far Dobby, excellent work. There may be another bonus coming your way."

"Misses Hermione! I is doing my job misses and nothing more."

"Thank you Dobby, we will leave you to your work. Bring the Mandrake to the potions lab then let us know please."

Dobby bowed deeply as they started to walk away. "Yes, yes."

They stopped by their bedroom and collected their school bags then headed down to the parlor to get to work. It felt good to delve into the potions essay. Silently they each worked on their own paper for nearly an hour. Harry stretched and discovered that he had actually passed the half-way point on his scroll. A quick glance at Hermione told him she was, as expected, well ahead of him. He re-inked his eagle feather quill and diligently went back to work.

An hour later Hermione put aside her quill and started reading her essay from the beginning. She glanced at Harry's and was rather proud to see that he had nearly finished as well. After re-reading and making several corrections to her own paper she looked up. He had just finished his own it seemed. She slid her scroll beside his and pulled his towards her. Their eyes met he nodded and then silently started reading her paper carefully. She focused on his essay and was surprised to only need her quill for two minor components he had mistakenly swapped dried Erkling tongue for powdered Erupment tongue. She pulled out Moste Potente Potions and started re-reading the section covering the Sanctuary potion while she waited for him to finish her essay.

"Your essay is not double the length that was required dear?"

She looked up and grinned back at him. "I guess you are rubbing off on me. I could only manage a bit beyond the assignment. Yours was excellent by the way,…" She passed his back to him open to the correction she had made. "…only swapped dried Erkling tongue for powdered Erupment tongue."

He grimaced "I thought it was Erupment but just couldn't remember the differences. Well you must be rubbing off on me as well because this is the fewest corrections you have ever made to one of my papers."

"Well I said yours was excellent, what did you think of mine?"

"Oh" He spun her essay around so she could read it and he pointed towards the conclusion she had changed. "Besides this part you changed. I thought the original was a better conclusion. It was excellent as always."

"Hmm, really?" She started comparing both of her conclusions.

"Yes the original was more direct in showing how each of your points agreed with your conclusion. The new one got a bit muddled I thought."

While she thought about that he pulled out a new scroll and started making his final copy of his essay. He was nearly half way done re-writing his essay when she let out a sigh, he looked up. "What is it Mione?"

"Oh, I can't decide." Their eyes met and she suddenly corrected herself. "Actually that's a lie, you're right I got lost in my second conclusion the first is better."

He gestured towards his re-copied scroll. "Well quit complaining about it and start re-writing it, I'm way ahead of you already."

She seemed surprised to see he was indeed well ahead of her. "Ok but I want to go practice breaking the Imperious when we are done here." He nodded; already back to working on his paper. She quickly pulled out a new scroll and started re-writing hers.

She put down her quill as he did. Together they said "There, done!" And laughed when they realized just how similar they were getting.

"Is that enough school work for one day? It is almost lunch time now."

"Yes I think so, we need to do this for the next week or so and we should finish all of our school work."

"Good, I will be glad to get it over with."

"You know I feel the same, it was hard to keep my mind on this. I guess that's why I got confused in my conclusions. I kept thinking about the Sanctuary potion."

"Well did you want to go practice resisting my Imperious curse now or after lunch?"

"Now definitely, I don't want to be doing jumping jacks on a full stomach."

"Alright, let's get going I'm getting hungry and we need to cook our own lunch today." Harry stood and started putting away his school supplies, she quickly did the same.

As they walked back to their room he jokingly asked "So you think you can resist me today?"

"I am certainly going to try my hardest." They walked into their room and put down their bags. Harry closed and locked the door, she started stripping. Once she was down to her bra and knickers she moved into a clear spot in the room and closed her eyes. He took off his jumper while she was relaxing and pulled out her wand. "Hey that's not fair; you're trying to distract me."

He met her with a mischievous smile. "So what if I am?"

She let out an exasperated breath and closed her eyes again. Now he removed his shoes and slacks so he was in just his boxers. He waited for her to signal before he cast on her. She opened her eyes and gasped then nearly closed her eyes again before nodding at him.

"Imperio" She immediately started doing jumping jacks, quickly she slowed her pace and stopped moving. He re-commanded her to jump and she started up again, this time very erratically however. He bent his will against hers and her pace increased, soon she was jumping as fast as she could. Sweat poured from his brow as well as hers, he had to concentrate exclusively on making her obey. Suddenly a sharp spike of pain pierced his consciousness. He groaned and collapsed onto his knees then darkness took him.

She was free; at last she had broken from his control. Before she could cheer her success she saw him laying there, his scar a bloody mess. "Oh damn" pulling her wand from his iron grip she quickly rolled him over and cast "Legilimens." She collapsed to her knees in shock. The force of the shields she encountered trying to enter his mind was immense. She quickly wrenched Godric's sword from its scabbard and tried again. "Legilimens" she slid, knife-like through the shields and felt them slam closed behind her. She felt him now, Harry was a mass of pain, torment, and rage. She felt him gather to strike with his rage at the perceived attack she was.

Before he could strike she felt a great force strike his shields once again. I am here love she tried to send to him then felt him encompass her and she was lost to his will in an instant. As another force struck his shields again she felt him wrap protectively about her and then pour more power into his shields. Though she was drowning in his immense will she struggled to get through his rage and help him think. He seemed to have forgotten that he could think and was reacting with only his instincts. She would think for him if she could finally link with him.

She gathered her will and dove into his tumultuous thoughts. She almost lost her focus again as she forced her way into his consciousness. He seemed incapable of communication; he was a mass of rage that needed an outlet, fast. He had been attacked, that much was obvious; Voldemort must have recovered his strength. Only he could attack through the scar. She finally linked with his thoughts and started directing him. Like some ancient heroine she gathered his rage about her as though it was a suit of armor and charged towards the black abyss that was his scar. Godric's sword in her metal clad fist.

They passed through the connection and slammed into Voldemort's shields which shattered like glass before their combined assault. An inner wall sprung into place and they heard cold laughter. Then a shadow appeared before them. Yet another trap is sprung and you leap in head first. Where is your brain boy? She felt him panic and quickly crushed that thought. The shadow seemed to swirl but piercing red eyes tried to bore into her. She tightly controlled Harry's rage yet hid herself behind it. Her presence must be kept secret if it was possible. She studied their predicament carefully, now was not the time to react blindly. Apparently Voldemort was expecting Harry to attack just like this so the exterior shield had merely been a decoy, the inner one held his strength.

She had him brandish Godric's sword threateningly while she thought. I detect another with you? Gryffindor? Intriguing, you continue to surprise me. It matters not though, I will crush your puny mind and let your body rot. Voldemort made no hint of his plans before he struck. Cold fire lanced into Harry, she ignored the pain racing through him and launched an attack using his strength.

Voldemort retreated briefly from their attack and then swirled around to attack again. Harry had just started recovering from the pain when he felt fire, his skin was aflame. Again she let Harry deal with the pain to attack Voldemort. They closed with him and she struck with Godric's sword. The sword seemed to slice into the swirling smoke, Voldemort screamed his pain but the smoke quickly reformed. Eyes burning brightly he tried to attack again when Godric's sword plunged through one of them and cut swiftly to the side and downwards. Harry swelled with thoughts of revenge, Voldemort was in a shambles, it was now or never, she pulled him back from his assault. He came like a reluctant warhorse, obedient to her will but unhappy to give up the fight. A moment later they were again back inside his head and she directed strength back into herself then held him close, now he seemed more like a little lost boy than the raging maelstrom he had been. It's alright Harry, I am here with you now, rest. I will protect you! He collapsed into her his rage spent.

For the next two hours she diligently maintained the barrier against Voldemort and built several traps for his next assault. His strength came back rapidly as he slept in her embrace.

Hunger woke him, Come love, we need to eat - Food would be good - welcome back, why did you lose control - He threatened to kill you in front of me then let me live, imprisoned. - So he knows then. - How could he not? - Yes but I think I kept my presence a secret, he seemed to think I was Godric. - How long have we been linked? - New record, almost three hours now. - And I'm not tired yet? - No you have actually grown much stronger while you rested. - What happened with Godric's sword there? - I'm not sure, it seemed to come along with me when I came into you. I had to use it, I wasn't strong enough to get inside without its amplification. They felt Harry's stomach growl its needs. You're hungry - Yes very - let's go make some food - alright.

She quickly faded back into her own mind, he felt desperately alone until he opened his eyes and met hers. She had been holding his head in her lap for the last few hours while he slept. He looked up into her eyes and for a moment all was right in the world. He rose up and she leaned down, their lips met somewhere in the middle. Without a word they slowly parted and stood. They were soon dressed and headed down to the kitchen.

After thirty minutes of Harry cooking and Hermione helping him they had a sizable lunch prepared for themselves. She tried to predict what he wanted before he asked for it. Since she had not spent nearly the time in a kitchen that he had she was mostly guessing. He smiled when she brought the wrong things to him. Surprisingly they both found it to be a very fun little game to play.

"How did I do resisting you before the attack?"

He swallowed "Very good actually, I had to concentrate exclusively on it. Once I did that your resistance seemed to crumble though."

She nodded her head and blushed a bit. "Yeah you crushed my will to resist, I wanted to jump for you. Truthfully it would have been embarrassing if I had been able to think about it."

He put one arm around her shoulders and squeezed tightly. "Keep trying, it's all we can do. I really did have to work hard to get you to that point. But that may have made me vulnerable to Voldemort's attack."

She looked up at him, almost crying before she squelched that. "I'm sorry Harry, I really want to learn to resist it, you're the only one I trust to be honest with me. I don't dare ask anyone else to help me practice."

"No, we're not going to stop practicing. Voldemort has a direct route into my mind remember." He tapped his scar with the fork he still held in his left hand. "The sooner we get you strong enough to resist me the sooner you should be able to resist Voldemort."

"Ok, daily but we should vary the time so he can't predict it." She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek before he nodded. He started eating left handed, refusing to remove his arm from her shoulders. She snaked her left arm behind his back and worked on her own food with her right hand. They finished and sat peacefully for a few minutes before getting up and rinsing the dishes off.

They were leaving the kitchen when they heard the front door open and several excited voices enter the house. They hurried up the stairs and opened the door to the entrance hall.

Winky appeared before them, a fresh tea cozy draped over her. "Mission accomplished Master and Misses. Three fresh wardrobes, new cozy for me and Misses Tonks got a new cape too."

Behind her they saw Remus, he looked transformed, no longer the shabby lost traveler. He wore neatly pressed clothes that made him look much more authoritative. Dan and Emma were clearly not quite comfortable in the robes they had on. They did look good in them though. "Oh hello dear, look what Remus found for us." Emma strode over to them and brandished a thick book in front of Hermione.

She grabbed the book so she could read it. Kwikspell: The complete self study course. "It says you don't even need to be able to cast a single spell and It will teach you how to."

Harry started "But don't you need a…" He then noticed Emma pulling a long thin wand from under her robes.

"…wand?" Hermione concluded questioningly.

Dan came forward also holding a wand. "Mister Ollivander was rather perplexed but when Remus mentioned our last name he nodded and pulled these out for us. He warned us they can be very dangerous."

Remus spoke up from behind them. "I promised to make sure they didn't do anything foolish. No waving those about! Now, put them away. Harry and Hermione know what wands are for."

Reluctantly, like two kids being told to only take one cookie Dan and Emma put their wands back into their robes. "We ran into Kingsley in Diagon, he will be by shortly. Mundungus should also come tonight. There will be a meeting tomorrow night."

Emma took the book back from Hermione. "There's no harm in us reading is there Remus?"

"No, just don't speak any words aloud and keep your wands inside your robe."

They both nodded quickly and headed upstairs, two steps at a time.

Hermione quickly turned to Remus when they were gone. "Are those wands real?"

"Most definitely, Ollivander does not sell pranks. Unless they have a magic spark inside them they can't do anything with them though."

Harry asked "But the Kwikspell course?"

"I thought it would be a good introduction to spells for them. It mostly deals with cleaning, color changing, or other harmless spells. All are very simple, they may even manage to learn some of them." Both of them still looked worried so he continued. "Really, I didn't get their hopes up or anything. They both understand that it will take a lot of work if they are ever to do any magic. They do seem eager to learn though."

Hermione sighed. "You better get out more books, go look in the library, Dobby should be mostly done now. They will want to read everything on magic theory they can get their hands on."

He looked at her sharply. "Really Remus, where do you think I got my study habits from? Move along, if you don't give them a progressively more involved series of books to read they will go looking on their own."

Harry chuckled at the expression of horror on Remus' face. Remus muttered "What have I started?" as he hurried off up the stairs.

"Are they really that bad?"

"Almost, they will want to read a lot more than just that one book."

"Is that a good idea?"

"Actually I think it will be. We will then be able to discuss spells and strategies with them. They are both very intelligent; it can't hurt to bring them to bear on our problems."

They had walked into the parlor while they were talking. Now they sat, she snuggled into his embrace and pulled a miniaturized book out of her robe. She did something and it grew into the massive tome he knew so well Hogwarts: A History. She opened it to the very beginning and started reading aloud to him. Though he had resisted reading it for years, he was quickly spellbound by her voice.

It was nearly four when the door bell gonged. Hermione stopped reading and the book shrunk, quickly disappearing back into her pocket. Harry sat for a moment, still lost in the construction of Hogwarts. Winky opened the door and they heard her greet those outside.

"Master, there is one here you need to decide if she can be coming inside sir."

"Oh" He quickly stood, Hermione smoothed his clothes and ran her fingers through his hair before he strode towards the door. She followed quickly behind him.

Harry immediately recognized Professor Dumbledore, Kingsley Shacklebolt, and the stinky one in the back could only be Mundungus. The tall blond woman must be Alisa Slate, she wore a broadsword on her hip and seemed ready to use it at any moment. Though the others with her seemed perfectly relaxed in her presence; Harry felt threatened by her attitude. "Alisa Slate?"

Her eyes raked over him, pausing at Godric's sword then again at his scar. "Mister Potter, pleased to meet you at last."

He shifted his eyes to Professor Dumbledore, who nodded briefly. "And you High Mage. House, Alisa Slate may enter at my invitation." He looked back at her and continued "Please come inside."

Alisa walked inside and greeted Hermione. "Ahh, Miss Granger. Pleasure to meet you as well."

Hermione gave a very curt "Pleasure" in reply. She never took her hand off her wand handle nor looked away from the High Mage.

Kingsley stepped inside and walked towards the parlor, Professor Dumbledore just behind him. Everyone moved behind them into the parlor. Mundungus slinked into the parlor and slouched into a sofa near the door. Winky closed the door and presented a large platter of sandwiches for them all to snack on. She placed it on one of the many tables and disappeared only to return a moment later with a collection of drinks. She handed a butterbeer to Harry and Hermione, Mundungus got a large cup of black coffee, Alisa, Kingsley, and Professor Dumbledore each received a large steaming cup of tea.

Kingsley politely turned to Winky. "Thank you."

"Call if Winky be needed." With that the little house elf disappeared again.

Professor Dumbledore began impatiently. "I do not have time to sit and talk, let us get on with today's session. I assume Remus is about?"

Hermione quickly answered him. "Yes Professor Dumbledore he is upstairs now."

"Good we will collect him on the way to the Room of Requirement." He turned to address the High Mage, "Miss Slate we will be about one hour then you may have your turn. Kingsley and Mundungus will remain here to keep you company."

"As you wish Chief Warlock." She bowed deeply as Professor Dumbledore placed his empty teacup on the table and strode past her quickly. Harry and Hermione took another pull on their butterbeers then placed them on the table and hurried after Professor Dumbledore.

Remus met them on the balcony of the second floor. He was just coming out of the Granger's bedroom. "Ahh good, we shall not have to go looking for you after all." Professor Dumbledore continued upstairs and immediately started pacing in front of the door.

"My Firebolt! I'll be right back." Harry dashed back down the stairs and into his room. He returned as the door appeared, his Firebolt in hand.

Remus raised his eyebrow at Harry but there was no time for questions as Professor Dumbledore and Hermione were already inside the Room of Requirement. Harry followed them quickly and Remus closed the door behind himself. Hermione was already speaking with Professor Dumbledore.

"Professor Dumbledore, Neville mentioned the other day that he wanted to participate in extra training as well. Sorry, we forgot to tell you yesterday."

"That's an excellent idea, however I believe we will tutor Mr. Longbottom separately for now."

Harry felt it was time to clarify Neville's recent improvements in Defense. "Professor, Neville did improve rather dramatically during last years Defense club meetings. He isn't the bumbler he used to be."

"I am quite pleased to hear this, under your guidance he overcame his confidence problem then. I had hoped he would overcome that soon, thank you. His parents would be quite proud of him."

"So Harry why did you fetch your Firebolt?"

Harry turned towards Remus to answer him. "Well yesterday we couldn't dodge your fireballs very well. I think we can dodge much better on this."

"That's a good idea, it will only work in large rooms or outdoors though. You should not rely upon it exclusively."

"Yes, but I thought we should practice it some. Hermione doesn't have the hours in the air that I do."

Hermione stepped forcefully into the conversation. "Well I did pass all of my instructions thank you very much. I can fly a broom, just not nearly as well as Harry can. See I can even admit when he is better than me in something."

Harry turned to her with an injured expression. "Hey I didn't say you couldn't fly, just that I have more experience."

"Don't push it Harry, quit while you're ahead."

She softened her tone quickly, he was correct. He had merely stated fact, not accused her of any lack of skill. "Sorry Harry, I didn't mean to snap at you. I guess I am nervous about flying with you. You go so fast, what if we crash?"

"Mione, you know I would never do anything to endanger you." He gestured with his broom towards the upper reaches of the vast room. "Up there you will be perfectly safe, trust me."

She looked down briefly before meeting his eyes again. "Yes Harry, I trust you. Let's get on with this then."

From quite a ways across the room Professor Dumbledore suddenly called out. "Remus, come over here please."

With a quick glance at them both he walked briskly towards the Professor. His new black coat billowing behind him as he went.

Their eyes locked again, he nodded slowly, she drew his wand from her sheath and cast "Legilimens." Hello love - I do trust you, just be careful please. - Always dear. - I should sit behind you and hold on, like we did on Buckbeak. - Ok that will leave me one hand to drive with and you can use my other to fight with again. - Yes, makes sense. She put away his wand, Harry straddled his broom and she mounted close behind him. She locked her wrists together around his waist and wrapped her legs around the broom. Closing her eyes she pulled herself tightly against him. He drew her wand and then slowly drifted into the air.

Ready? - Yes I am, give me that arm. He again tried to forget that he had a right arm. It was a good thing he was so used to flying with his left hand, since he grabbed the snitch with his right. Ok got it, fly around a little, let's see if I can hang on. - Of course you can hang on. Watch and feel what I feel. - How can I hide from it love? I'm in your head. He could feel her giggling against his back as he shot off into the air. Exhilaration filled him Merlin! I missed this. He flew about as though following an imaginary snitch. He did turn a little slower but otherwise he flew normally. How are you doing? - Pretty good, I see how you enjoy it so much. - Great, now let's see if you can handle full speed turns. - Oh Harry! - Just move with me, or do you need more practice? He felt her blush at that comment. I am perfectly capable of that. - Then do it!

Harry shot off, quickly bringing the Firebolt to its top speed. Below them Remus and Albus watched, each admiring the superb skill Harry always displayed on his broom. The top of the room was a lot like a barn, huge rafters held up the roof, he ziged and zaged through them, narrowly missing them on several occasions. She barely kept from screaming in his head to slow down, it wouldn't do any good to distract him in the slightest. This is like riding a horse, as long as I move with you it's nice and smooth. - Good, never rode a horse before. - FIREBALL! - yikes! He dodged just in time, several more shot past them. The fireballs were coming from both of the wizards standing in the middle of the room. They are both trying to anticipate where you are going to fly next. - Yes I guessed that. - Swing near them, let's see if we can distract them a bit shall we? - Ok give me a minute to get used to this.

They changed just as he seemed to figure out their rhythm that must be planned. He swung low, barely a foot from the ground, he only had to move side to side as he closed with them. Hermione raised his right arm pointing her wand into the source of the fireballs. He felt her drawing in his will along with hers. Rictusempra now! Together they spoke as one through Harry's mouth. "Rictusempra" As soon as the casting was done he swung upwards and away again. Only one stream of fireballs continued to quest after them. We got Remus - Professor Dumbledore is still after us though - Coming around again. - Alright.

Remus was writhing on the floor, his laughter rang about the room. Professor Dumbledore's fireballs seemed to be coming at them faster as if to make up for the fact Remus was no longer casting. I don't think we can keep this up for much longer, were barely avoiding these. - Just keep trying. - I am I am. - Closer - trying. This time Harry went up to the ceiling directly above the professors then shot straight down at them. He spiraled first one way then the other to avoid the flaming spheres. He knew Hermione was cringing, suddenly the stream of fireballs stopped and a silver umbrella like structure formed between them and their quarry. Aim behind us, we'll go under the umbrella. - got it. She brought his arm back and pointed along the axis of the broom, they were both bent low.

Just before they hit the umbrella he swerved, the shield crackled inches from their feet. Then they were under its edge and for an instant had a clean shot at Professor Dumbledore, they took it. Tarantallegra now! Together they hurled the spell behind them, Harry shot back up and away at top speed in case Professor Dumbledore had attacked them as they came under the umbrella. He suddenly stopped and spun around to see what was going on behind them. The shield was gone and both Remus and Professor Dumbledore were dancing, Remus was still laughing. WE DID IT! - Really? - you see them - yes amazing!

Harry drifted back towards them as the professor's finally canceled the spells upon them. Remus collapsed into one of the plush chairs near where they had been standing. He seemed to still be giggling, Professor Dumbledore stood still once more but barely seemed to be suppressing a laugh. They landed a few feet from them and slowly dismounted. Hermione slipped back into her own mind now that the session seemed over.

"Most impressive, truly some amazing flying Harry. Never have I seen a broom flown like that when encumbered by two riders. Yet you still were able to avoid our attacks and fight back in a very unexpected fashion. Keep practicing thinking and acting as one, you seem well on the way to acting in unison." Professor Dumbledore gestured towards the table next to Remus and four glasses of chilled pumpkin juice appeared. Each took one, Remus seemed to almost have his laughter under control. He sat carefully holding his glass with both hands and taking short sips.

"That was a very potent tickle charm, I still feel it. It went right through my ward against jinxes."

"Yes very potent spells indeed, imagine if they had been using Godric's sword instead of Hermione's wand. Excellent idea by the way Miss Granger. Swapping wands with Harry will allow him to duel Tom and yet afford you some protection from the killing curse. You both continue to surprise me with your wonderful ideas."

"Professor what about making a wand for every member of the order? After all it is a weakness of Voldemort's we should exploit."

"Quite right again Miss Granger. I was thinking of having a few more wands made from Fawkes' feathers, if he should be so willing. Maybe we could produce many of them, that would only protect from Voldemort's wand. Since it is the only way we know of to stop him it may be worth it. I will speak with Fawkes and if he is willing get with Ollivander about their construction."

"What if Voldemort gets a new wand, after the fiasco in the graveyard would he really continue using that wand?"

"Interesting point Remus, but since he was in fact using Fawkes wand at the Ministry last month I believe he has neglected to do anything about it yet." Professor Dumbledore placed his drained glass back on the table and smiled warmly at them all. "Good evening to you all, excellent session, you both are doing quite well." With that Professor Dumbledore apparated out of the Room of Requirement. Harry and Hermione shrugged their shoulders.

Remus spoke up as he climbed out of the soft chair. "I'm going to go take a shower, check on your parents, and talk to Kingsley a bit."

"Ok, see you after we train with Alisa." Firebolt over his shoulder he took Hermione's hand and walked out. Remus followed them out and headed to his room. The door stayed visible, they still needed it for Alisa. With a brief stop at their room to deposit Harry's Firebolt they continued down to the parlor.

High Mage Alisa Slate was a very young looking woman, in her mid thirties or so Hermione decided. She seemed to exude the same sense of contained power that Mage Rawl had back in Gringotts. She turned to them when they stepped into the doorway. "I hear there is a private room we can adjourn to for our first session? I would like to test you both first and decide where we need to start."

"Of course, this way." Harry led the way upstairs to the Room of Requirement. They re-entered the room Professor Dumbledore had created for his training session.

When the three of them had stepped inside and the door closed behind them Alisa, who was staring openly around the room, voiced her awe. "Amazing, how does Albus do these things? He is such a wonder."

Hermione launched into her teaching mode immediately. "This is called the Room of Requirement, originally the door was in Hogwarts, Professor Dumbledore first moved it to Privet drive and then here so we could train. The actual room is an alternate world of some kind. The door is merely an entrance to that space. This room can become virtually anything required, thus the name. It has been for instance a room full of chamber pots, that's how Professor Dumbledore first came across it several years ago. It has also served as the meeting place for our Defense Against the Dark Arts club that Harry and I started last year."

Alisa had listened carefully to Hermione's lecture on the nature of the room. "Anything you say?"

"Well so far yes it has not failed to produce what was needed."

Suddenly Alisa's sword was in her hand and was slashing down towards Hermione's head. Before Hermione could react Godric's sword was in Harry's hand and had blocked the slashing blade of the High Mage inches in front of her forehead. Hermione jumped backwards drawing her wand as she fell. Anger boiling from deep inside him he stepped into her place and shoved the High Mage's blade back forcefully. Suddenly he was involved in a flurry of blades. The High Mage tried repeatedly to stab or slash him, her wand appeared in her left hand and she started casting a stream of spells towards Hermione. Somehow Godric's sword always met her blade and instantly attacked back. Harry realized he had experienced this before when they had first entered Grimauld Place and Kreacher had attacked him.

Instead of feeling panicked he was overcome with a sense of peace, he may not have a clue what was happening but the sword certainly did. The voice of the Sorting Hat suddenly spoke in his head. "Come child let us teach this witch what it means to fight Godric Gryffindor!" The words echoed in his head and suddenly Harry went on the offensive. Alisa was pressed back; she brought her wand to bear on Harry. A narrow beam shot from her wand at his eyes but the sword intercepted it "Spell: Blindness absorbed, ready for use." Trusting in the sword he lunged forward, she was forced to retreat repeatedly and now Hermione's hexes started landing on the High Mage. She seemed mostly immune to just about everything that touched her though.

"Now she is desperate child, we have her." Harry took brief control of the sword to point it at Alisa and cast "Stupify." She deftly dodged it and Hermione's latest spell as well.

Alisa retorted as she lunged at Harry and cast something at where Hermione must be. "Is that all you have boy? I expected better from the Savior of the World."

"I have her measure, this fight is over child." Harry found himself rolling to the side as the sword flashed up, there was a shower of golden sparks as Godric's sword sliced Alisa's wand in two. He found himself kneeling facing her, Godric's sword pointing straight at her. Orange light flashed from the sword and enveloped the High Mage. "Spell: Bind released minimum duration one day maximum three years, depending on her willpower." As a stunned Alisa froze in place Harry wondered briefly where bind had come from.

He finally risked a glance away from Alisa towards Hermione, several shimmering barriers stood around her, her lower legs and feet looked like tree trunks, otherwise she appeared unharmed. He stood and walked over to her quickly, "Are you alright?"

"Yes, if I can get my feet free at least." She pointed her wand at her feet and cast "Finite Incantatem." The roots faded and her feet reappeared. Lifting them experimentally she then looked into Harry's eyes and cast "Legilimens". She sat her own body down where it was so they could concentrate. He started sending her energy automatically.

Hello love - what was that all about you think - well she said she was going to test us - that seemed more like an assassination attempt - yes let's take away her sword and question her - alright - that was some brilliant fighting how did you do that - I didn't, I think Godric enchanted his sword with his abilities here.

Harry replayed his memories of the fight and how the voice had come into his head.

Wow that's amazing - yeah I though so too - I wonder if we can talk to it like the Sorting Hat? - Why don't you ask me instead of talking about me? - Godric? - No, merely an echo, like the Sorting Hat got Godric's reasoning abilities I got his martial ones, in his day there was no one better in a fight than Godric - You can absorb and later release spells? - Yes - What all are you holding? - Ten spells currently, Blindness, three Expelliarmus, two Slumbers, and four more Binds - What is your limit? - I know it not. - Can you hold the killing curse? - I know not for it was not invented in Godric's time, I would certainly try should the need arise. - Why did you kill Kreacher? - I acted on your will, you desired the elf and the portrait destroyed, thus they were. The witch here you question her motive and were unsure thus she is alive still. I do not decide life or death that is for you to choose, I merely follow your directives.

She felt fresh guilt flash through his mind, she quickly reassured him, though she had disagreed with the act it was done and he needed her unconditional support.

Harry you did the right thing in both cases; we need to question Alisa on why she tried to kill me. That was very close; I can't believe you blocked that so fast. - You're welcome I was just doing my job - Oh, thank you too Godric's sword - As I said welcome - let's remove her sword and question her - can we break the bind early? - Yes easy enough.

Harry walked over to Alisa and Hermione stood her body and walked to the chairs in the Classroom section, she sat down and pulled out her book so it would appear that she was reading. Alisa could not know their secret yet. Harry carefully pulled the remains of her wand out of her hand and tossed it away. He shrunk Godric's sword and sheathed it so he could use both hands to pull the sword from her frozen hand. He tossed it behind himself near the remains of her wand. Once again taking up Godric's blade he wondered how to wake her. A simple enervate will wake her - ok they thought in reply. He stood about ten feet away and pointed Godric's sword at her from there. "Enervate"

Alisa sprung back, catching herself before she fell over, she crouched briefly, taking in her current situation. Suddenly she stood and started laughing heartily. "And you need my training why?"

Mildly surprised Harry asked "Is that your idea of testing us? Trying to split my fiancée in half? I am extremely distrustful and you give us no reason to trust you?"

"You, or rather she came to us asking for training in combat, I can best any of my order, yet you bested me? Again I ask what do you need of me?"

"My main objective is to kill Voldemort, I don't think he will duel me with a sword. I need to learn combat spells that can be used against him. Simply stunning or otherwise incapacitating him will not be enough. Teach us to fight a darklord with spells." He gestured towards Hermione who could be seen sitting behind him 'reading.' "I doubt Voldemort will be impressed with stupefy when next I duel him."

Alisa calmed and stood thinking for a minute. "Very well, I will train you both." She reached into her right boot and pulled out another wand. Harry immediately stepped up and pointed Godric's sword straight at her chest. "You should first learn to aim a little lower." She pointed the wand at her own hips. "Like when you stunned me earlier, aim for the hips. They are the last to actually move but the first to show sign of movement. If you aim a spell at your opponent's hips you are more likely to catch them as they try to dodge. When Miss Granger was casting earlier it was rather easy to dodge since most of her spells were aimed towards my head or upper body. Awareness of your surroundings are critical to surviving the type of situations you are sure to face. Too bad you don't have an eye like Moody did. He would have made a wonderful Mage but he declined the invitation to the order."

She started to pace slowly. Harry relaxed a little but kept Godric's sword pointed at her. Please stun her instantly if she lunges at us or starts casting. - I am prepared as always. - Good "What kind of spells do we really need to learn?"

"That is a difficult question. The legend appears to be true about that sword you wield. It is said that Godric made it a spell battery that is, it could absorb and later release spells. If it can block spells cast at you then you can ignore the defensive spells and concentrate on the offensive ones." She continued to pace as she thought through the scenario. "The two of you seemed very coordinated during that test. There will be little need for concentration on that. We will begin with more violent spells tomorrow. May I depart for now? I must prepare for tomorrow." She walked slowly towards her sword.

Think she is lying - No Professor Dumbledore left her with us. I don't think she could deceive him. - Alright done. "Thank you High Mage. Shall we expect you at this time tomorrow? You will not be able to apparate into or out of the house." He lowered Godric's sword but kept his distance from her while staying between her and Hermione.

Alisa sheathed her sword and retrieved the pieces of her wand. "It may be a good idea for each of you to also have a spare wand on your person. Mr. Ollivander has a collection of very short wands. They are not as potent as the normal ones but will certainly serve in a pinch."

Hermione took over his mouth. "We will be certain to inquire with him when next we visit Diagon Alley."

"Very well, until tomorrow then." She strode brusquely towards the door. Harry followed, when they neared Hermione she stood up and followed them out the door. Bye love - until next time! Hermione slipped back into her own body. The door disappeared when Hermione closed it behind them. Alisa who was at the top of the stairs watched in fascination. "Just like that it's gone?"

Hermione quickly answered. "Yes but it can be re-summoned when needed."

"Fascinating!" The High Mage shook her head in wonder as she started down the stairs. They followed a few paces behind. Alisa reached the bottom and faced the parlor. "Time to be going, fascinating, just fascinating."

Mundungus slipped through the doorway into the entrance hall from the parlor. "You be goin already? Guess I can go too, got places to go, the sun will be down soon." He continued towards the door and without another word slinked out of the house.

Alisa walked to the still open door. "Evening Mr. Shacklebolt, Harry, and Hermione." She faced each of them in turn as she spoke their names. Head high she walked through the door, closing it quietly behind herself.

The imposing figure of Kingsley stood in the doorway to the parlor. "How did it go? You two look a little flustered? Like being in Auror training I expect."

They both visibly relaxed and walked into the parlor. They collapsed into a couch and collected their now warm butterbeers. Kingsley leaned against the doorframe watching them. "If that's what Auror training is like how did Tonks ever make it through?"

Kingsley burst into laughter. "You should see her in a duel. She is actually quite good when fighting. It's when she is trying to talk at the same time she gets clumsy."

Remus spoke from the top of the stairs. "I'll be sure to remember that."

Kingsley spun around but when he saw Remus smiling he relaxed. "Sorry, but it's the truth."

Remus came the rest of the way down the stairs, stopping one step up to be eye level with Kingsley. "It's fine, she knows it too. Needs more confidence then she will be fine. She should be here soon by the way, she is off tonight." He clapped Kingsley on the shoulder and when the big man returned the gesture they both walked into the parlor.

"Then we had better switch topics hadn't we." Kingsley returned to the large chair he had been sitting in earlier, Remus sat next to him in a sofa.

"How are my parents doing Remus?"

"Reading, I just checked in on them. Not sure if we will be able to get them down for dinner actually." He ran his fingers through his damp hair as he thought for a moment.

"Winky!"

She appeared next to Harry. "Yes Master Potter Sir?"

"I think there will be seven for dinner, will it be ready soon?"

"Yes, fifteen more minutes. Would you like it served in the formal dining room or in the kitchen?"

"Kitchen will be fine, thank you."

"Yes Sir." She touched their Butterbeers and frost formed on the outside of the bottles as she faded away.

"Thanks," they said to the space she had occupied a moment ago.

"What are they into thats so fascinating?"

Remus looked over at Kingsley quickly. "Magic. I made the mistake of buying them a Kwikspell book earlier today. Ollivander sold them wands and now they are pouring over everything I give them."

Kingsley looked very puzzled. "Aren't they muggles?"

"As far as we know yes, but that has never stopped my parents. They will learn everything they can about it just because they want to."

Harry gave Hermione a firm hug. "Just like a witch we all know, wonder where she got it from. Hmm"

Hermione didn't even bat an eye she just smiled and snuggled into his embrace. "Well at least we will be able to discuss magic around them and not feel like we are leaving them out of the conversation."

Remus seemed to grow more morose at that prospect. "They're still in first year stuff at the moment, give them a few weeks or a month and they will have at least read through seventh year stuff."

"Give them a lot of theory books, they enjoy those immensely and it will give them good background information." Hermione suggested helpfully then took a long pull on her butterbeer.

Kingsley was still obviously confused by their fascination. "I don't understand Hermione. Do they think they will be able to cast spells when they are done? Muggles can't do magic or they wouldn't be muggles would they?"

She shook her head no. "They obsess on various topics from time to time. When I came home after first year they had converted the back porch into an astrological observatory. They had spent several thousand pounds on a huge telescope and were convinced they could find the asteroid that was going to smash into the earth. They spent weeks pouring over books and websites on the internet testing various theories. The next summer it was breeding poodles, we had all kinds of pure bred poodles they were trying to get to breed for dog shows. This is just their latest hobby to delve into."

"So it's more like um, stamp collecting then?" He asked tentatively.

"Yes except they would go much further than just collecting them, they would want to know everything about who designed each one as well as where they were made and what kind of press was used to print them."

The doorbell gonged and Harry moved to stand when Winky appeared at the door to see who it was. When she opened the door Tonks sprawled over her into the house. She appeared tangled in a large stick which went clattering down the hall. Remus was on his feet and into the entrance in a flash. Winky stood up and calmly closed the door as though this was a normal occurrence.

"Are you alright Nymphadora?"

Harry and Kingsley almost burst into laughter as Remus helped Tonks stand up and retrieve her broom from the other end of the hallway. "Aye Lupin just tripped over me broom again. Thanks for the hand up hun."

Winky interrupted, "dinner is ready." Then she blinked away.

Kingsley stood fluidly "I will see to the Grangers, meet you in the kitchen." Like a shadow he strode swiftly up the stairs. As the rest of them filed towards the kitchen Harry reflected that this was really a very good summer and he had Hermione to thank for every bit of it. He made a mental note to thank her especially thoroughly tonight.

*** *** *** ***

Wormtail's silver hand glittered in the torchlight as he approached his master. Master would not be pleased but he had learned never to hide failure from his master. Deceiving Voldemort meant death, bumbling usually only resulted in pain, pain he was very familiar with.

"What is your excuse this time worm?"

"I found the house I did sir, it was easy enough to find a muggle to set the fire. They will do anything for a few gold coins. It burned very fast but those who put them out arrived shortly. Alas they were not there when the deed was done master."

"Well now you know where they live I want them dead, especially the bitch of his blood! Run her over with a lorry I don't care make it happen worm or you will die very painfully I assure you."

Just as he thought master would allow him to leave the dread word was spoken "Crucio."

He writhed in agony on the dirt floor as Voldemort's cackles drowned out his screams.

*** *** *** ***

(Much later in the night)

She knew something was wrong. His kiss still lingered on her cheek as she sat up slowly. He was sitting on the floor in a pool of moonlight, back to her but she could tell he was crying silently. Quietly she went to him and knelt close behind him wrapping her arms around his chest and then placing her chin on his right shoulder. He jumped at her first touch but relaxed instantly and sighed as she hugged him tightly. He quickly reached up and dried his eyes. He had a small box open in his lap inside was a snitch, still locked in its leather strap, its wings still.

"Are you ready to go there?" He felt her whisper more than heard her.

He nodded slowly. "This weekend, let's slip away. Your parents can pick us up at Diagon Alley?"

She nodded against his cheek. Silently he closed the box and allowed her to help him up together they slipped back into bed.

*** *** *** *** *** ***

*** *** *** *** ***

A/N: Hello again everyone. I hope you have enjoyed this chapter. The last two months have been very hectic for me and my family, in the middle of the holidays we sold our old home and moved into a new one. It has been hard to settle things and get into some type of schedule. I currently have less than half the time to work on my stories that I had before the move. I do remain committed to finishing Summer and Secret. As I promised in previous Author Notes I will not post a chapter until it feels right.

As always thank you for reading my stories and please leave your comments in a review or feel free to email me with comments or questions. I greatly enjoy receiving them.

Thank you

Gol