Chapter 26: Happy Birthday
William Weasley leapt out of bed and drew his wand from the sheath that he had worn for years on his left forearm. His bare chest heaved with the adrenaline racing through his veins and his ponytail whipped about. He quickly scanned the room and then what he could see of the darkened flat through the open bedroom door. He glanced back at the bed where Fleur slept on; oblivious to whatever it was that had woken him. Her long silver hair pooled around her head. He looked at the clock on the headboard which blinked lazily, "Too damned early to care, go to sleep!" Then he heard it again, the scratching that had woken him. Now that he was awake he recognized it and hurried to the window. He cursed under his breath when he recognized Hermes and quickly let him inside.
He closed the window and carried Hermes into the living room, quietly closing the bedroom door. He let Hermes off onto the perch beside Arêtes and took the note. Then sat at the polished dining table and placing the note flat touched the tip of his wand to it, directly atop his name Percy had hastily scrawled on the outside. He spoke clearly but softly, "Perfect Percy is always wrong," the note flipped open and he quickly read it.
Bill,
The Job is wonderful. Mr. Fudge appreciates all I do for
him and I hope to get another promotion soon.
All my best,
Perfect Percy
He shook his head slowly cursing, "Damn, damn, so soon?" He left the note on the table and went to his fireplace. Throwing a pinch of floo powder into it he stuck his head inside, "Charlie's house, Romania!" A minute later he was looking into his brother's small house. "Charlie," he waited a moment then tried again, "CHARLIE!" He finally heard movement from the next room and his brother stumbled in, he wore golden snitch covered boxers and carried his lit wand.
He yawned and asked, "Bill?"
"Wake up bro and pay attention," When Charlie knelt a few feet in front of the fire, Bill continued, "I just got an owl from Perc, he said he is going to get a promotion soon."
Charlie's expression didn't change but his eyes locked with his older brother's, "Really? So soon?" When Bill nodded Charlie continued, "I will have to owl him later and congratulate him I guess." They each nodded carefully and Bill pulled back out of the flame.
Bill went back into his bedroom and quickly gathered a set of black clothes. He carried them into the living room and got dressed. He was just pulling on his dragon hide boots when Charlie Apparated into the room. He was also dressed all in black, the hood of his heavy cloak thrown back. A small phoenix, the color of day old blood was barely noticeable on the left breast of the cloak the hem nearly brushed the floor. Neither spoke, Charlie looked around the room and saw the note on the table, he hurried over and read it. While Bill laced his boots Charlie got out ink and quill and wrote an addition to the note. When he was done he brought it over and showed Bill.
Bill,
The Job is wonderful. Mr. Fudge appreciates all I do for
him and I hope to get another promotion soon.
All my best,
Perfect Percy
Gone to congratulate him, B&C
Bill nodded and Charlie went to Hermes. He gave him the note then whispered intently, "To Albus Dumbledore Hermes, and fly like your namesake." Hermes nodded his understanding and Charlie let him out through the tiny kitchen window. When he came back Bill was pulling a cloak that matched Charlie's from the back of the hall closet. He threw it on and stomped once to settle his boots. They pulled up the deep hoods of their cloaks and stood facing one another in the center of the dark room as two grim shadows. The shadows drew wands from their sleeves then vanished with a pair of pops.
They arrived in a dark alley, which they quickly scanned. The night was quiet; it seemed to be holding its breath in anticipation. The slimmer one tapped a few bricks on the wall of one building and a small archway silently appeared. They slipped inside and the archway sealed behind them. They followed the narrow passage up into the building, stopping at the sixth landing. Again the slimmer one tapped a few bricks and muttered a counter charm. They slipped into a long corridor there were many doors, each labeled with bright golden numbers. Ahead of them Percy's door was open and a black cloaked lump lay motionless on the floor, silver mask glinting at them.
They ran to the doorway and heard harsh voices from within, "Thought you could outsmart The Dark Lord did you boy? They couldn't make out the response, if there was one, "We'll let your corpses serve as a testament to his power! Av-"
Bill and Charlie jumped into the doorway and rapidly cast several, Petrificus Totalus curses. They had caught all three of the remaining Death Eaters facing away from the door. They each went stiff as a board and fell to the floor. The brothers threw back their hoods and went inside, Bill went to Percy and Penelope who were bound and gagged together, they slumped against their bonds when they realized that the rescue party had arrived.
Charlie levitated the four Death Eaters into a pile and tightly bound them with conjured rope. He grimly snapped each of their wands twice when he was done restraining them then threw the pieces into the fireplace where they added waves of color to the flickering flames. Bill was untying the still shocked Percy and Penelope so he took a pinch of Floo powder and threw it into the fireplace, nothing happened! They had been taken off of the Floo network! He tried to apparate across the room, again nothing.
Percy noticed the look on Charlie's face, "We tried to Floo out or apparate away while they were breaking through the curses on the door." He shook his head mournfully, "Nothing worked though, we managed to stun one of them but…" He trailed off unable to continue.
Penelope was shaking with rage beside him, "What kind of men can casually kill innocent people?"
Bill stood after severing the last of the ropes binding Penelope, "Unfortunately Voldemort never seems to have a hard time finding new recruits." He looked around anxiously, "Where the bloody hell is Dumbledore?"
Charlie spoke up, "We need to get going. These guys were probably expected somewhere, someone is sure to come and check on them, we can't wait on Albus."
Bill walked towards the door and called over his shoulder, "We'll have to get downstairs so we can apparate away."
Percy pulled Penelope out of her chair and towards the bedroom. While Bill and Charlie waited anxiously, keeping a watchful eye out for any sign of further danger. Percy and Penelope hastened to dress and grab some important things. Charlie stood by the fireplace while Bill guarded the hallway. Percy and Penelope at last came out of their room, Hogwarts trunks obediently following them. They had just started across the room when everyone was knocked off of their feet by an explosion in the middle of the room.
When they recovered and looked they saw a truly terrifying sight-Albus Dumbledore enraged! He stood in the very center of the room. Fawkes hovered over his left shoulder, both of them covered in a brilliant golden nimbus of power. He quickly surveyed the scene and then started talking rapidly to them all. They all got back on their feet but none of them could hear anything he was saying. He seemed to realize this and with a sharp gesture with his wand at them the ringing stopped in their ears. "GO! We'll talk later, Damn apparition wards. I just alerted them that something is going wrong by breaking it. Get out of here, I'll take care of these." He pointed his wand at the pile of Death Eaters Charlie had made in the corner, "See you later, now Go!"
Charlie asked, "Burrow?"
Bill, who had apparated across the room to join them shook his head, "No my flat, I left Fleur alone."
The younger brothers immediately nodded and the four of them vanished just as the first curious neighbors peered into the room. Bill immediately went into the bedroom and checked on Fleur- still sleeping. Charlie went into the small kitchen and started making tea while Percy and Penelope turned on a few lights then collapsed onto the center of the long couch. Bill came out of the bedroom and Charlie arrived with tea.
Percy untangled himself from Penelope and stood. He shook first Charlie's then Bill's hands, "Thanks guys, I can't begin to show my appreciation for your help tonight."
Bill turned their handshake into a bone crushing hug. Charlie's massive arms quickly encompassed both of them. When they separated Penelope noticed unshed tears in all three of the brothers' eyes. Bill patted Percy on the shoulder, "Bro, I'm just thankful to be able to talk to you both now. That was a very gutsy mission Perc."
Penelope sipped her tea then spoke up from the couch, "I suppose the war will start in earnest now." She sighed, "Everything Albus has warned us about has come to pass. I had hoped he would be wrong about it all." She looked around in frustration.
Just then there was a faint pop and Dumbledore arrived, Fawkes hovering above him, "Damn sloppy work, damn sloppy!" He looked at the four wands pointed at him and smiled, "The Auror's took fifteen minutes to arrive." The four of them quickly put away their wands. "Fifteen minutes! The second group of Death Eaters managed to escape while I was tied up waiting on them to arrive. Klak just isn't up to organizing something on this scale."
While Professor Dumbledore flopped into a large chair Penelope asked, "Can't you replace him sir? I mean being Chief Warlock and all."
Charlie silently poured and handed Professor Dumbledore a steaming cup of green tea. Fawkes settled on the back of his chair, "Yes Miss Clearwater, I'm afraid we are going to need a new Head Auror. It will be some time still before Mr. Potter is sufficiently prepared to face Tom."
Penelope leapt to her feet, "Today is Harry's birthday isn't it?"
Professor Dumbledore looked up at her casually, "Why yes Miss Clearwater you are correct. We are expected at Grimmauld Place by noon for the celebration."
Percy asked hesitantly, "Sir would it be all right for Penny to stay there for now?"
Penelope rounded on her boyfriend, "I'm staying wherever you are, and you know that!"
Professor Dumbledore sipped his tea before interrupting Percy and Penelope's staring contest, "I believe that question is best addressed to Mr. Potter himself."
Bill returned to their previous topic, "What about that Apparition ward and the Floo network?"
Professor Dumbledore looked disturbed when he answered, "They tell me that the Floo was down for maintenance. There was no authorization for an Apparition ward. I have yet to determine its origin. None of those who participated in the attack was skilled enough to perform one."
Bill yawned and asked, "But you were able to break through it."
Professor Dumbledore pointed one long finger casually at Fawkes, "Only when Fawkes lended a wing I was deflected three times before that." He pulled out his twelve hand watch and inspected it carefully. "It is still a few hours before the sun rises I suggest you all get some more sleep before then."
Penelope looked away from Percy at last, "I couldn't sleep a wink after that."
Professor Dumbledore looked over his half-moon spectacles at her, "Fawkes and I will remain Miss Clearwater. Should you need assistance in preparing a sleeping draught I seem to remember most of you receiving an outstanding on your potions N.E.W.T. - yourself included."
Penelope blushed furiously, "Sorry sir, even after all these years I sometimes forget that I'm a witch."
Professor Dumbledore laughed quietly to himself, "I seem to recall a similar revelation on Miss Granger's part a few years back. It can happen to the best of us." He stood abruptly and looked at Bill who seemed barely capable of standing, "Go to bed William!" Bill simply nodded and stumbled towards his room. Charlie helped him take his cloak off then closed the door behind his older brother. He then took the cloak and returned it to the back of the closet by the front door. When he turned back to the living room the couches had been transfigured into two beds, one slightly smaller than the other. Charlie lay upon the smaller bed while Percy and Penelope settled into the larger. Professor Dumbledore waved his wand, "Nox." And the room was plunged into darkness only the constantly shifting glow of Fawkes golden eyes betrayed their presence.
*** *** ***
The doorbell rang-Harry had finally gotten around to correcting the gong, at the crack of dawn. Winky and the Grangers were the only ones awake at the time so they greeted the Weasley's. Molly quickly went off with Winky to the kitchen muttering something about them needing help with all the food for today. Mr. Weasley, Ron, Ginny and Luna retired to the parlor with Dan and Emma Granger.
They sat and immediately Mr. Weasley asked, "I've been curious for years about just what makes and auto go? I mean I even took one apart once but for some reason when I put it back together it didn't act quite normal."
Emma laughed, "Arthur, we explained that the last time you were here. Internal combustion, do you remember that?"
Mr. Weasley looked down at his shoes, "I um thought you were yanking my chain on that really. It sounds to fanciful to be true."
Ron, Ginny, and Luna went after some food but got thrown out of the kitchen by Mrs. Weasley with only a large roll for their efforts. They settled into some sofas, munched on their rolls and waited. About an hour later Harry and Hermione finally came downstairs. They also tried to go into the kitchen for some breakfast but were shooed away after Molly gave them each a large roll. Harry stood in the parlor doorway and asked, "Does anyone want to join us in the Room of Requirement for a while?"
Ron, Ginny, and Luna looked relieved and leapt to their feet.
Mr. Weasley was once again asking the Grangers about plugs, "What is the point of attaching things to the wall with tails? I mean what is this electricity thing if it isn't magic?" Harry shook his head and started climbing the stairs. Hermione giggled and hurried to keep up with Harry. Ginny, Luna, and Ron followed them as Dan tried once again to explain.
I need to summon it love- for the party.
All right just remember the Quidditch pitch and a big hill with a tree.
Of course I remember.
When they reached the top of the stairs Hermione started pacing and soon the door appeared. The five of them stepped into the Room of Requirement, "Merlin's beard! Is there anything that this room can't do?" Ginny exclaimed as she walked inside.
They were in an immense park, a full Quidditch pitch stood ready, a rattling chest sat in the precise center. Fourteen Firebolts waited on the field, seven to either side of the chest. Four Beaters bats lay in front of the chest. Across the pitch a single viewing stand rose high above. To their left a huge hill rose above a dense forest. To their right a large clearing had several long tables, a lot of chairs and streamers hung from everything. Harry looked around, a distant smile appeared on his face. He took another bite of his large roll and started walking through the thick forest towards the hilltop, "Don't know it seems that if you can imagine it this room can provide it."
This is perfect Mione.
Thanks Harry
From beside Harry Hermione swallowed the last of her role and added, "We have learned a few things about the room itself; It reacts to your needs, If you take an item outside of it the item will fade away and it is possible to actually damage the room."
"Damn, guess that answers my question about those Firebolts back there."
Hermione twisted around and smiled at him, "Yes Ron, they'll work just like a real Firebolt while in this room but will evaporate if taken outside."
As they started climbing the steep hillside Luna asked, "What do you mean it reacts to your needs?"
Though Harry set a fast pace up the large hill Hermione didn't wait to answer, "Well we were in here for one of our training sessions, with Remus and Dumbledore. Harry asked Remus about wand-less magic, the room shuddered and a door appeared in front of them. It opened and an old man came through. We spent the next four hours learning the basics of what he called the Will and the Word. Harry had summoned the room on that occasion so it may only work for the one who creates it each time." They finally reached the top of the hill, a great oak tree stood in the center, its branches created a haven to escape from the summer heat and a soft breeze stirred a peaceful rustle in the leaves above their heads. They sat in a loose circle upon the lush grass.
Luna asked, "So how do you do magic without a wand then?"
Hermione looked a little embarrassed as she admitted, "I can barely manage the basics really. Harry will have to demonstrate."
Go on do something
Oh all right
Harry shrugged and focused his attention on Luna. She crossed her eyes and stared at him. He spoke commandingly, "Up!"
Luna was suddenly floating a meter off the ground. She let out a yelp of surprise then looked at him bewildered, "But you didn't do anything?"
Beads of sweat were forming on Harry's forehead, as though he was holding Luna with his own strength. He held his hand out, palm up and slowly lowered it. Luna came down with his hand and gently settled once again upon the grass. Harry slumped and took a deep breath.
Ginny and Ron spoke as one, "Wicked!"
Thank you
Ugh I need to work on that more
That's the idea of practicing
I don't want to practice today it's my birthday
Hermione cleared her throat and looked at Harry sharply before picking up her lecture again, "Doing magic this way is more draining than what we are used to. It is easy to grow tired rapidly."
Everyone nodded Harry caught his breath, "Belgarath, the guy we learned from, said the gesture isn't necessary. He kept saying focus and concentration are the critical parts. I used my hand to slowly lower Luna or I'm afraid it would have been a quick drop. Anyway he said to understand what you are trying to do and never attempt the impossible. You can put too much effort into trying to do something and end up without enough strength to keep your own heart beating."
Ron shook his head, "Whoa, I think I'll stick with my wand that sounds too dangerous to me."
Luna giggled happily, "I think it would be fun to learn another way of doing something. You never know when you may need to do something without your wand."
Ginny looked at Harry thoughtfully, "Yeah I think that would be quite helpful to know. Are you up for a little training session Birthday boy?"
Harry smiled back at her. He looked relieved for something else to think about, "Yeah I think so, I need something to get my mind off of those who can't be here because of Tom." Ginny's saw Hermione squeeze his arm before she looked appreciatively at her and their eyes met. Ginny saw Harry's pain reflected in Hermione's gaze and suddenly understood the absolute nature of Hermione's dedication to Harry. She was suddenly grateful that the heat of the day hid the redness she was sure had just rushed to her cheeks.
An hour later Neville found them all walking around levitating leaves. They slowly passed them to one another and continued walking in a silent dance. Though the leaves weighed almost nothing they were all concentrating so much they didn't see Neville trudge up the hill carrying a large picnic basket. Neville stood there watching them for a full minute before he managed to get Ginny's attention. She dropped her leaf and ran to help him with the basket, "Mrs. Weasley sent me with snacks, Happy Birthday Harry!"
Harry seemed to suddenly remember something. His eyes snapped to Neville's, "Happy Birthday to you too Neville!"
Neville looked down, twisting his shirt tails, "It's not important really but thanks."
Ginny looked furiously at Neville, "Why didn't you tell me yesterday at work? And it is very important, it really is!"
Neville turned red under Ginny's fierce gaze and could only stammer, "I-I-Uh-I." While he seemed to want to run back down the hill.
Ginny's gaze softened and then she grabbed him by the hand, "Come on let's go talk." She pulled him off towards the far side of the great oak, "We'll be back in a few minutes save us some food, Ron!"
Ron looked after his departing sister mildly confused about something, "Well let's see what mum packed."
Luna's laughter rang down the hillside.
A little while later the six of them sat in pairs in a loose circle. Harry and Hermione were wrapped around one another, Ron and Luna sat tightly together while Ginny and Neville, though close were not touching. They munched on the delicious pastries Neville had brought them. This was the first time they had all been together since the ill fated rescue mission to the Department of Mysteries. Though each of them surely thought about it no one brought it up. They simply relaxed and chatted about school. They spent quite a bit of time devising ways to get even with the Inquisitorial Squad for last year.
It was almost noon when everyone started coming into the Room of Requirement. First to enter were the Grangers and the Evanses, along with Arthur and Minerva. Then a few minutes later Kingsley, Bill, Fleur, Percy, Penelope and Albus they collected near the tables. The six came down the hill to join them. Charlie came in with Fred, George, Angelina, and Alicia. Charlie and the twins were each carrying a large wooden chest. They proceeded straight to the viewing stand and carried their burdens up to the very top.
Winky and Dobby paraded in with trays and trays of food floating along behind them Molly bringing up the rear. Soon all of the tables were groaning under the weight of the feast they had created for this special day. Last to enter was Remus who looked tired and worried but managed a weak smile when Harry met his gaze. Professor Dumbledore stepped forward into the center of the gathering. He was just about to speak when the door opened again and Tonks tumbled into the room. Remus ran to her and helped her stand. She looked around blushing and mumbled something before Remus pulled her off to sit at one of the many tables.
Professor Dumbledore cleared his throat and everyone looked back to him, "Now that we are all present I would like to officially begin the festivities. I hear there is to be a Quidditch match, assuming we can fill all the necessary roles for two teams." All of the Weasley children looked around happily at that announcement. "Harry has informed me he wishes you all to remember today is also Neville Longbottom's birthday." Neville turned beat red beside Ginny as everyone looked to him and called out Happy Birthday. When everyone had settled down Hermione replaced Professor Dumbledore in the middle of the assembly.
She looked around before addressing them all, "Thank you all for coming today. This is Harry's first official birthday party, ever, so we are going to pack everything into today's events. First the food and presents then Quidditch and when that is done, should there still be time, we will have other party games. Fred and George have assembled some marvelous fireworks for later. Oh and everyone watch out for their tricks today." She smiled warmly at the suddenly defensive looking twins.
Harry stepped into the center and grinned broadly around at everyone. "Thanks for being here today. I want to invite all of you to our wedding on August 25th to be held at my parent's home in Godric's Hollow. We hope all of you will be able to attend. Winky has the official invitations." He looked around for Winky, suddenly she was zipping around the party handing small white envelopes to each person present. "There is a small ring in each envelope. It's a portkey that will activate at 9am on the 25th of August. Hope to see you all there." Harry tried to walk back out of the circle but Hermione held him tight.
A moment later her clear voice started singing, "Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you…" Everyone else quickly joined in. While they were singing a table appeared in front of Harry with his birthday cake upon it. The cake was a monstrous affair that could only be held up by magic. It was a scale model of Gryffindor tower. Little sugar men and women looking out the windows and waving banners that read Happy Birthday Harry, atop the tower stood sixteen sugar figures, each waving a burning candle in time to the singing. When the song was done Hermione whispered into Harry's ear and he closed his eyes for a moment before he took a deep breath and blew out all of the candles.
As the candle holders untangled themselves from where Harry had blown them on the far side of the tower Mrs. Weasley walked forward with a large carving knife. She handed the knife to him handle first, Winky appeared with a stack of plates while Dobby stood ready with six different types of ice cream. With Hermione's help Harry cut the cake, Winky and Dobby took ice cream orders and distributed the plates. Soon everyone was sitting around at the tables happily munching on the cake and ice cream.
An hour later half the food was gone, the stack of presents lay opened around Harry and talk had turned to forming teams for the Quidditch match. Fred and George had quickly taken over at this point.
George started, "All right we have the Seekers, Harry and Ginny."
Fred broke in, "the Keepers, Ron and Remus."
George continued, "Us, Bill and Charlie for the Beaters."
Fred looked around puzzled, "We need a few more Chasers, we have,"
"Alicia, Angelina, and Luna so far."
"Yeah we still need three more to get us started."
Those not yet assigned to a team looked at one another. Hermione took a deep breath and stood, "Well I've never played but I'm willing to give it a shot."
George and Fred beamed a smile at her, "Excellent!"
Hermione walked over to where Alicia and Angelina were giving Luna advice, "Anyone else?"
Bill walked by with another slice of cake, "I think Perc and Penny should fill those last two spots guys." Percy and Penelope looked up, surprised they had been chosen, "No excuses you're both are good fliers lets play."
So the teams were assembled, Remus, Ginny, Bill, Charlie, Alicia, Percy, and Penelope against Ron, Harry, Fred, George, Angelina, Hermione, and Luna, everyone else moved up to the viewing stand. When the teams were hovering in place above the field Professor Dumbledore waved his wand and the trunk flew open releasing all of the balls at once. Harry and Ginny took off after the snitch, the match was on. They soon lost sight of it though and were reduced to wandering around trying to spot it.
The teams turned out to be remarkably even Ron and Remus were adequate keepers while Bill and Charlie were evenly matched against Fred and George. Each team had only one experienced Chaser. Scoring was rare but the points slowly added up as the afternoon went on. Suddenly Ginny took off, Harry hurried to get near her but she was already holding her hand up, the golden wings of the snitch fluttering to be free. Hermione threw the quaffle through the ring behind Remus but it wouldn't have been enough to change the winning team.
Good throw
Bah, we lost
That would be my fault. I was watching you fly instead of watching for the snitch
He felt her blush and saw her head for the ground.
I'm serious you took my breath away flying like that. You really have improved a lot you know.
Thank you Harry
Any time love
Harry couldn't help but smile the match had been great fun. He suddenly flew a loop and let out a loud whoop of glee. Ginny's team circled around her and cheered her on, she beamed with pride. Professor Dumbledore waved his wand again and the bludgers dropped to the ground. It was now dinner time so everyone assembled back at the tables. Talk centered mostly on the match, everyone congratulated Ginny on her quick catch.
She looked around, continuing to beam with pride. Suddenly she spotted Harry, even though he had a broad smile on his face she suddenly felt sorry for catching the snitch on his birthday. Breaking away from the conversation she walked to the table where Harry and Hermione were sitting with the Grangers. She sat down and smiled at them before hesitantly joining the conversation. "Harry, I, I'm sorry I caught it. I mean it's your birthday and you weren't able to play most of last year. I know you really enjoy it but I wasn't thinking. I saw it hovering only a few meters below me and went for it." Having said her peace she stood to walk away but Harry grabbed her hand.
"Ginny, sit." She did so, looking around surprised. He released her hand, "I'm glad you caught it. Gryffindor will be in good hands for the next few years. You know I won't be playing right?"
She looked confused, "But I thought."
Harry shook his head, "No I'm retired now. I will have way too much to do, between teaching and training." He shook his head again. "Better to make it official now instead of trying to do that on top of everything next year. Your spot on the team is safe, I'm not playing."
Hermione squeezed his arm, Harry smiled and leaned forward, "Everything is fine Ginny, and you're a good seeker. Now you just need a good broom. I'll tell you now, I've ordered a full set of Firebolts for the Gryffindor team. They'll be at school when you get there next term."
Ginny jumped up excitedly, "Really? Can I go tell everyone? Oh can I?"
Harry laughed and sat back nodding Ginny took off to where Ron and Luna were sitting with the twins.
Hermione noticed Professor Dumbledore walk over to Kingsley. They exchanged a few pleasantries before Professor Dumbledore asked something and Kingsley went on the defensive, they talked animatedly for a while. Professor Dumbledore seemed to be trying to convince him of something. Finally Kingsley said something and looked at his shoes. Professor Dumbledore reached up and patted him on the shoulder. Kingsley looked at him and slowly nodded. Professor Dumbledore walked away smiling and Kingsley went walking slowly into the woods head bowed in thought.
Did you see where Remus went to Mione?
No I didn't. Where is Tonks?
Over there with Alicia and Angelina
Oh, I don't know Harry
I'm going to try and find him to ask him about my parents
Ok
Hermione kissed him longingly, Fred and George called out from across the party, "Save it for the bedroom later!" Harry quickly stood, bowed towards the twins and jumped on a Firebolt and took off into the sky. He flew several rapid loops before he waved back at them and headed off looking for Remus.
He found Remus lounging up in the viewing stand, alone with a nearly full bottle of Ogden's Firewhisky. He was still recovering from his most recent transformation and looked tired. When Harry climbed off his Firebolt and sat beside him
Found him he looks worried
Talk to him, find out what's worrying him so much these days
Remus silently offered him the bottle, Harry took a small sip and passed the bottle back, "How are you doing?"
"Not bad all things considered I guess. I find myself wondering a lot about Nymphadora. What does she expect from me?"
Harry felt awkward discussing this but tried his best, "Companionship, she told me that you made her feel comfortable."
Remus raised his eyebrow at that but let it drop. Harry took a long pull on the Ogden's after a few minutes he felt his voice would work again he asked, "What were my parents really like?"
Remus looked around slowly before looking at Harry, "They were without question the best people I have ever met. Lily didn't like James much for the first couple of years. I guess she and I got along well enough though the four of us were constantly causing mischief so I guess we deserved her attitude towards us. James and Sirius were my best friends we did everything together, Peter just seemed to follow us around and cheer us on. He appeared mostly harmless though so we allowed him to." He drifted off for a minute before shaking himself and letting out a deep breath. "Harry you need to understand that nothing, even looking back at it now, hinted that Peter was really a spy for Voldemort. The way he seemed to worship James, I still can't understand why he did it." He broke off again took a deep pull on the Ogden's and shook his head slowly then handed the bottle back to Harry.
Harry took another small swig of the Ogden's and into the awkward silence asked, "Was dad really a bully?"
Remus snorted, "I would have to say Sirius was the real bully. James had his moments but didn't go out of his way to bully others. Well except for Severus that is. They hated one another with a passion I really never understood. It went beyond their different houses and upbringing. I'm afraid Severus has transferred that same hatred to you though you have done nothing to deserve it."
Harry nodded slowly, "I talked to him about that a little while ago. He agreed he would try and judge me by my actions and not dad's. I think that helped a lot."
Ask him how they made the map.
Oh, ok.
"Hey I was wondering about the Marauders map? How did four students manage to make something so powerful?"
Remus thought about that for a while. Harry was about to ask again when he finally replied, "Well you have probably learned that an invisibility cloak gives you nearly free reign of the entire castle. There are a few people there that can see through one though."
"Like Dumbledore?"
Remus nodded, "Yeah like Dumbledore. So we came up with a plan to make a map that would show us where he was. Then we could just avoid that area and be on about our mischief." He laughed briefly and a huge grin broke out on his face, "You know with that cloak you can just sit next to the other houses doors and learn the passwords. We broke into the Slytherin common room once that way. Sirius Wrote; Slytherin Stink across the inside of their portrait. Oh they howled about that one for a month. Course Dumbledore docked us two hundred points for it. He didn't tell a soul what for but we knew. Anyway James and I started spending nights in the restricted section, Sirius, with his girlfriend, kept watch just in case. They got caught a few times but that kept us from getting caught in there." He sat up and looked over at Harry, "We found all the spells we needed in there but what tied it all together we actually found in Hogwarts a History."
See I'm not the only one who's read that book!
Harry chuckled at Hermione's comment but managed to ask, "Really, what was that?"
"Well the founders actually made the castle aware. It knows who is where inside the grounds. That's likely how Dumbledore always seemed to know where we were. So all we really did was tie the map into the awareness of the castle. Simple really but it took us most of our sixth year to get it right. We had several maps that didn't work at all and had to start all over. Then Filch nicked it from us late in seventh year, we were never able to get it back before the end of term. Just how did you get a hold of it?"
I knew it. That's how it had to work!
Harry ignored Hermione to answer Remus, "Fred and George gave it to me, they found it in Filches cabinet during their first year. I have no idea how they figured out how to open it but they managed somehow. They called it the secret to their success."
Remus nodded, "Glad it ended up in their hands and now in yours. Strange how things like that work out isn't it?"
Harry pulled the lock of his mother's hair out of his pocket, "Dobby and Winky found this when they cleaned Sirius's bedroom here. I think it's my mum's, do you have any idea how he got it or why he would have had it?"
Remus took a long pull on the Ogden's, once he had stopped coughing small bursts of flame he answered. "Well I'm not sure how he got it. As to why I think I can answer that. Lily was easy to love Harry. She was always so helpful; she would go out of her way to help someone else. Even someone in another house like Peter, she spent hours tutoring him in charms and she had James tutor him in transfiguration."
"I thought Peter was in Gryffindor?"
"Why would you think that? Think about it for a minute have you ever met a more cowardly person? For Merlin's sake he spent twelve years hiding as a rat! No I'm afraid he was in Hufflepuff." He held the Firewhisky up into the air, "Sorry Helga," and took another long pull on the Firewhisky before handing the bottle to Harry.
Oh that makes sense. I have been trying to figure out how the Sorting Hat could have gotten that wrong.
Harry drank again then said thoughtfully, "I guess that makes sense."
"Well back to your question. James was not the only one to fall in love with Lily, we all did in one form or another. I'm not just talking about me and Sirius here. I would guess half the boys in our class wanted Lily Evans as their girl. She was always friendly but honest about her feelings. Before she started dating James she never went on dates or hung out with anyone. She was serious about school, not as serious as Hermione mind you but she definitely had a desire to prove herself. So I have no idea where Sirius got a hold of a lock of her hair. He was one of two wizards to actually visit Godric's Hollow after, after Voldemort attacked though."
I do not have a desire to prove myself. Do I?
You proved yourself to me ages ago love
Harry nodded thoughtfully and took a long pull on the Firewhiskey before silently handing the bottle back to Remus. Harry stood, a bit unsteady on his feet, "Guess I should return to the festivities, before someone comes looking for me. Thanks a lot Remus."
Remus nodded, "Welcome Harry, I'll be down in a few minutes."
"Ok see you later," Harry mounted his broom then looked back at Remus, "and thanks again." Remus smiled and waved while Harry turned and dove off of the viewing platform.
Fred and George landed on the viewing stand, Remus looked up surprised. Fred pointed at the row of chests across the back of the stand, "Fireworks-"
George continued where his brother left off, "We need to start getting ready for the show."
Fred looked apologetic, "Sorry, didn't know you and Harry were up here talking."
Remus shook his head and got up, "It's all right guys. I need to head down anyway. We're looking forward
to a good show. I heard these were amazing back at school last year."
The twins beamed with pride, "We made some special ones for this-"
"Yeah should be a good show."
Remus nodded and climbed on his Firebolt, waved and took off.
The sun had begun to set and the six golden rings glowed brightly in its light. It was nearly time for the fireworks to begin. The chairs slowly marched out onto the Quidditch pitch and became soft recliners. When the sun had fully set everyone lay down looking expectantly into the night sky. Fred and George triggered the first salvo of fireworks into the sky.
*** *** ***
Two shadows slipped through the door, the Quidditch pitch now lay quiet. They slung their satchels from the pair of Firebolts they had left beside the door earlier. Not a word was spoken as they flew side-by-side up to the top of the hill. Beneath the wide branches of the great oak they landed and set about pitching a small tent. The only voices heard were those belonging to nature. Crickets and frogs called into the night.
When their campsite was assembled they each took a blanket and walked to the side of the hill where they could clearly see the stars above. In the pale moonlight they spread one blanket then sat upon it, arms entwined. He sighed-she squeezed his arm-he squeezed back-they kissed deeply. To the outside observer that was all, to them it was much more.
Thank you for my first birthday party ever. It couldn't have been better.
Welcome, and I plan on making it better- later.
You're amazing Mione I couldn't do all this without you.
Thank you love I am just doing what needs to be done. Oh, we have two more guests starting tonight.
Who?
Percy and Penelope, they were attacked last night but Bill and Charlie got there in time to stop it.
Did they catch them?
Yes, relax you have only Tom to worry about. We'll take care of the rest love.
(The sigh)
I know, I'm trying to get ready, you know I can take down anyone except Dumbledore.
That's what you still need to learn then.
But I don't stand a chance-he knows everything!
No one knows everything, trust me on that one.
I owe you so much I could never repay you.
Our balance sheet isn't as one sided as you think.
Really? What do I do for you?
(She squeezes his arm)
You Harry, believe in me. You trust me to do what needs doing. Not as some bookworm know-it-all but me. You give me the confidence to act instead of sit in the library all day dreaming about doing things.
(His laughter rings in her head) Oh I have a quote for you on that one, "Do something!" Does that ring a bell? Of course I believe in you, you believe in me!
(He squeezes her arm)
Thank you Harry
Hey didn't this start with me thanking you?
I believe you're right about that.
Well lets get on with the making it better part then.
Thought you'd never ask.
(They kiss deeply)
*** *** ***
A/N: Well there it is, Harry's sixteenth birthday. I want you all to know I am still dedicated to completing Summer. It is a struggle sometimes and I am experimenting with different writing styles. After all this is my practice for the novel I am working on as well. Please leave your opinions in the reviews, I look forward to hearing from you as always.
Gol