Disclaimer: Like JKR would ever be nice enough to post her stories on a free site for all to see before the release of her last book? Right.
Summary: Try looking a few chapters back.
Small Snippet to Torture Reader Until Reader Reads (and Reviews .:Hint:. .:Hint:.): She looked so peaceful while sleeping, her features completely relaxed and worry free. Every curve seemed so soft in the dim light of dawn. She seemed unreal . . . like an angel. He couldn't help himself. He had to touch her cheek. It was just as soft as it had looked. Her eyes were still closed, and her lips were slightly parted. They looked soft too. He ran his fingers down her cheek to trace along her lips. Yes, they were also just as soft as they had looked. He wondered what they would feel like against his own.
~*~*~*~*~
Floating on Heir
(Chapter Six)
~*~*~
Harry, Hermione, and most of the Weasley lot along with Tonks and Lupin were all walking down Diagon Alley, getting school supplies for the up-and-coming school year. Their first stop was Gringotts to stock up on Galleons. As Harry walked up to the cashier and asked to be sent to his vault, the goblin helping him, Pinspike, called over another goblin and began whispering in rushed gobbledegook. It was a good few minutes before Harry began to grow impatient. "Excuse me-er, Pinspike and . . ." Harry quickly glanced at the newcomer's nametag, "Razorback, is there something wrong? I don't mean to be rude, but we're in a bit of a hurry, and I was just wondering-"
"This way, Mr. Potter," Razorback said, turning and leading the way to a side office.
The office was definitely the making of a goblin; gold glimmered from every space, almost blinding Harry at first sight. Razorback pointed to a chair in front of the mahogany desk, signalling for Harry to have a seat. The goblin began to sort through some papers, grunting every now and then as if confirming something to himself. "That's all of it," he said, handing Harry a stack of papers and a card.
"I'm sorry, but that's all of what, exactly?" asked Harry as he glanced at the pile.
"The deeds to your new properties, stocks, bonds, permission forms to open your new vault, and your new Easy-Access Card," replied Razorback as he got up to leave for the door.
"Wait! What do you mean new properties? New vault? Why would I have a new vault? And what's an Easy-Access Card?"
"It's all what was left to you by Sirius Black. The Easy-Access Card was created for the richer families that will allow you to make large purchases without actually having to carry your money around. Now, I'm very busy as are you, so if you'll excuse me, I'll be leaving. Return to Pinspike if you still wish to visit your vaults. I'd advise you to leave those papers in 711 for safe keeping." With that, he was gone, leaving Harry to rejoin Lupin, who hadn't needed to visit his vault.
"Follow me, Mr. Potter," Pinspike said upon Harry's return.
"Professor Lupin," Harry whispered as they walked to the carts, "what's this all about me having two vaults now? Why am I getting all of Sirius's stuff?"
"It's Remus, Harry. I'm no longer your professor."
"Right. Sorry . . . Remus."
"As to your question about your inheritance, it's because, Harry, you're his godson. Sirius had no children of his own or any others he was really willing to call family, so why wouldn't he pass his belongings to you?"
"Yeah, but . . . what about you? What about Tonks? He didn't have to give it to me. I don't want it. He died because of me! I don't deserve it! I'd rather have Sirius back!" Harry's whispers growing harsher with every word.
"We'd all rather have Sirius back, but that's not an option. Sirius gave it to you because he wanted to know you would be taken care of. In case something went wrong, he wanted you to have enough money to support yourself for a long while."
"Yeah, but-"
"No 'buts'. That's just how it is, so accept it." Remus looked over to where Harry had stopped in his tracks. One look at Harry and Remus's face softened. He gave a sigh before continuing, "I know it's hard, Harry, but you have to keep moving forward. Sirius wouldn't want you to beat yourself up over it." Harry gave a terse nod before they continued their previous path.
After a long, winding cart-ride, they arrived at Harry's normal vault, the numbers 687 glistening in the low light over the steal door. Harry swept money into his bag while noticing that the piles of money had grown significantly. As he looked back to where Remus waited in his shaggy grey robes, a pang of guilt struck him, and he hoped he hadn't been the only beneficiary of Sirius's fortune. Remus hadn't really made that point clear . . . only that Harry had been given most of it.
The second vault was different. As Harry saw the glittering numbers, realization dawned on him; he was only two vaults down from where the Philosopher's stone once was. An ominous feeling began to rest in the pit of his stomach. Suddenly, he wasn't so sure he wanted to know what was in the vault.
With a skim of Pinspike's finger along the door, it opened with a resounding clank. The vault was small like 713 and filled with odd items such as jewellery, books, and dusty bottles of what Harry suspected to be old Firewhisky. A worn book resting in the front of the pile caught his eye. There was no title and the pages were blank, but the book seemed to call to him. He quickly placed the papers he'd acquired earlier in the vault and took the book in hand before closing the door, heading back to the cart to start the wild ride back. He gave the book to Remus to shrink-noticing an odd glimmer in the man's eyes-before placing it in his robes for later.
From the wizard bank, the reformed group proceeded to continue shopping for the various items they needed, picking up their yearly books and restocking their other supplies to last them through the year.
After a quick stop in Knitting Knick-Knacks for Hermione's knitting essentials, Ginny and Ron's insistent whines convinced Mrs. Weasley to allow them to all stop by Fred and George's place to see how business was going. When they reached the storefront, they found their eyes filled with dazzling colours, some of which Harry was certain he'd never seen before. Sparklers and streamers were all over the place while large flashing letters lit every corner of the window, yet, strangely enough, it was still possible to see through to the store behind where mini-fireworks seemed to have been set off. One of the signs he notices flashed: Now there's no need to be scared of the Dark Lord when armed with the Fart Lord! There was another sign written on what looked like green men's boxers that read: Voldemort's Mouldy Shorts: makes a perfect Christmas present for that extra hated foe. There were many other signs with similar phrases that insulted Voldemort and his merry band of Death Eaters. Mrs. Weasley looked a bit faint, but Harry thought it was brilliant.
As they entered the store, there was a loud bang that was barely heard over the chatter of the large crowd to announce their arrival. Through the mess of heads and shelves, Harry could scarcely make out the defining red hair of the Weasley twins in the back. They had to force their way through the mass of people. As they passed the shelves, they saw titles like Super-Skiving Snack Boxes (for the teachers. Give your whole class the day off without even feeling the effects of being sick!), and Colour Creams (change your hair a different colour every five minutes for up to an hour!). Harry was instantly reminded of the mist he'd come across during the third task in his fourth year when he saw packages of candies labelled Universe-Reversing Gummy Globes (turn you world upside-down while enjoying an assortment of delicious flavours!).
As they continued to the back, a kid pushed his way through quickly, seeming to be chased by silver chattering teeth with a tag hanging off that read Metallic Munchers. Over in the corner, Harry saw a group of women clustered around a stand that bore the words Lecherous Lollies (make their jaws drop when they see you licking one of these!). Harry pointed this out to Ron who seemed to be very glad that Ginny and Hermione hadn't spotted it yet and pushed them along faster to many protests.
"Harry!" Fred called, leaving George to deal with a customer. "How've you been, old chap?" he said shaking his hand over-enthusiastically.
"You mean since you saw me at breakfast this morning? Never better," Harry replied.
"Hey, Fred, I think you guys made a mistake. You've got your stuffed animals out here," Ron commented. On one of the shelves, there were tons of plushies that looked like miniature kangaroos.
"Ha, ha," Fred replied flatly, "There's no mistake. Those are Walloping Wallies. Perfect for annoying little sisters."
"Oh . . . Mum, can I get one for Ginny?"
"Hey!" Ginny glared at him.
Harry cleared his throat to break the tension, casting around for something to say. "I see business is-" he paused, looking around as another bang sounded the arrival of more customers, "booming."
"Quite right, and it was all thanks to you. If there's anything you want, don't hesitate to ask. You won't be paying a Knut; it's on the house-OI! What do you think you're doing over there?" Fred excused himself and went running off to straighten out the mess a kid had made by accidentally knocking one of the shelves over.
"Hey, Harry! Come look at these!" Ron called, and Harry was once again caught up in the many items that scattered the store. In the end, Harry picked out a pair of Sideways Shoes (walk on walls and ceilings!) and a couple bags of Emanating Eyes (make your eyes glow in the dark!).
"All right, everyone! It's time to get going. We don't want to be out too long." Mrs. Weasley reminded them. In all the wondrous chaos, they'd forgotten for a little while that the world at the time was as far from safe as possible and that staying out too late would more than likely result in a few injuries.
As they were returning to the Leaky Cauldron, Harry noticed that Remus and Mrs. Weasley had hung back and were talking in rushed whispers. He couldn't help his curiosity and slowed his pace to remain ahead of them just enough to overhear what they were saying.
"I don't know, Remus. I just don't think it's a good idea! He's still so young."
"I know you're worried about him Molly, but he's not a child anymore. He'll be an adult next year." The lycan paused for a moment as if in thought before continuing. "How about this, then? I'll tell him where it is I want to take him, and he can choose from there."
"I still don't feel right about this."
"He has to see the place eventually, and I think now's the right time. I know you don't want to hear this, but if he agrees, then we will be going whether you like it or not. Harry's old enough to decide for himself, and while you may think you know what's best for him, the truth is that he knows himself better than anyone. If he thinks he can handle it, then I'll take him. Truthfully, you couldn't stop him even if you wanted to, Molly. While you may have come to care for him as your own, he's not your son."
"I know that, Remus. Trust me; I know that." Mrs. Weasley's voice drifted off. I few seconds later she continued, "Fine. You can take him, but only if you ask him first. You also have to promise me that if he says no, you will not push the subject."
"I promise, but in return, if Harry says yes, then you must promise not to try to hold him back."
She seemed a bit unsure, but finally agreed to his terms in the end.
"Harry, can I talk to you for a moment?" Harry turned around at Remus's raised voice, stopping just long enough for the two to catch up, while Mrs. Weasley stalked by them to catch up with the others. "I suspect you overheard some of that?" he asked with raised eyebrows.
"Er, yeah, a bit," Harry replied, looking slightly guilty.
Remus nodded, obviously expecting that answer. "Well, what it is I wanted to tell you about is this; I think that the time has come for you to finally visit Godric's Hollow. Seeing as I'm still poor and have no birthday present to give you, I figured I could take you to see the house and answer any questions you had. Dumbledore said it was fine. So what do you say? Do you want to go?"
"When are we leaving?"
"As soon as the others head home."
"Sounds good to me." Harry tried to sound nonchalant, but inside he was bursting with excitement and nervousness at the prospect. He couldn't believe it; he was finally going home: his real home.
As they caught up with the rest, Mrs. Weasley looked to Remus, her eyes asking what Harry's answer had been. Remus nodded slightly, and she seemed resigned to have to accept his decision. Harry handed his items over to the others to take back to Grimmauld Place as the group parted ways at the end of Diagon Alley by the brick wall.
As the wall closed behind their companions, Remus turned to Harry and said, "I've got a quick errand to run before we head off. I promised to pick up some potions ingredients for Severus so he can continue to make my Wolfsbane potion while I was here. There's just one problem, the ingredients I need can only be found in Knockturn Alley. I don't want to take you down there because it's a rather dodgy place, and with you being who you are during these times, I think it would be best if you didn't go; however, I also don't think it's safe to leave you alone . . ."
"I could stay with Fred and George," suggested Harry.
"I think that would be best," nodded Remus.
The pair continued back down the alley while Harry lazily looked around. He hadn't really been given much time to see the other shops as Mrs. Weasley had rushed them along. Nothing seemed too appealing at first, just the same old stuff, until a shiny object displayed in a jewellery shop storefront caught his eye. It was a thin, diamond-cut, gold choker and in the centre was what looked like a miniature hourglass with sand made from diamonds. The links were somewhat triangular in shape, touching from tip to side around the necklace, each encrusted with one ruby or sapphire on each tip. The hourglass on it immediately reminded him of Hermione and the wish she'd made the other day about having a time-turner again. Harry couldn't explain it, but he was completely drawn to the necklace. Maybe, it was because he knew he could never actually get Hermione a time-turner and thought that the next best thing might make her happy instead. Either way, he had to have it.
"Keep up, Harry!" Remus called, realizing that Harry had stopped a while back. Harry immediately continued walking but before leaving committed the store's name to memory: Frosted Fortunes.
As soon as Remus left the Twin's shop, Harry turned to Fred and George and asked, "Do you have anything that can make me invisible?" Identical smiles grinned back at him.
~*~*~
Armed with a borrowed invisibility cloak, Harry made his way back down the alley, unnoticed by anyone. There weren't a lot of people around, but Harry didn't want to take any risks. He hid in a small crevice to the side of Frosted Fortunes to safely take the invisibility cloak off without anyone noticing before continuing into the store. The clerk was a large woman decked out in so many bright, shiny jewels that it hurt for him to look at her at first.
"How may I help you, Darling?" asked the lady as she came around the counter. "My, aren't you a cute one! Here to buy your girlfriend something special?"
"Er, something like that." Harry didn't really feel comfortable giving this woman too much information. He just wanted to get the necklace and get out of there. "May I see that necklace over there?" he said, pointing to the one in the window.
"Oh, my. You do have good taste, but I think that one might be a little too pricy for you, Darling. Why don't you try looking at one of these other necklaces, instead?"
"No, thank you. I really want that one."
"Very well, then." She tentatively removed the necklace from its resting place and held it up for him to see properly. "This necklace is not just what it seems to the naked eye. It's definitely pretty on the outside, but mostly, the cost is due to the enchantments placed on it to protect the wearer. It will protect against any minor curses and most larger ones as well. There are other protections, but, unfortunately, the information on them has been lost through the ages."
She turned the necklace over to show him the rune carvings on the back that cast the protection. He also saw an inscription, but the years had worn the letters mostly away so he was unable to read it. "It used to belong to a powerful wizard who'd had the necklace made for his wife during the War of the Founders that took place nearly a thousand years ago. He wanted to make sure that she'd always be safe." He vaguely wondered what war she was talking about but didn't really care much; it was in the past and didn't affect him.
She gave him an amused look. "Because it is so rare and a piece of history, this necklace is worth thirty thousand galleons. Are you still sure you want it, Darling?" Harry just about gagged at the price, but he still wanted it and nodded to the lady to let her know.
She raised an eyebrow sceptically. "I don't mean to be rude, Darling, but how do I know you can pay for it? Do you have money with you now?" Harry held up his money bag for her along with the Easy-Access Card given only to those with large fortunes. She gazed hungrily upon the heavy sack of gold with renewed vigour. "In that case, would you like the necklace gift wrapped or take it as is?"
Harry left the shop, necklace in pocket, with a considerably lighter money bag and with his first use of his Easy-Access Card. He was lucky, though; the lady had given him a discounted price because he was, in her words, "just so cute!" Ducking back into the crevice he'd used before, he replaced the invisibility cloak over his body and headed off to Weasley Wizard Wheezes where he waited until Remus's return. He didn't have to wait long. Just as he was handing the cloak back to Fred, Remus stepped through the door and beckoned Harry toward him. They both waved goodbye to the twins as they left the shop again.
"Right, I got done what I needed to, and now we can leave. Are you ready for this, Harry?" asked Remus, his expression slightly uneasy, as if expecting Harry to be having doubts.
"I'm ready. And before you ask if I'm sure, I'm sure," replied Harry.
Remus laughed, accepting his answer. "Now, I take it you've never Apparated before?" Harry just nodded. "Hm, I thought so. Well, we can't use the Floo, so I'll have to Apparate you to the place."
"You can do that?" Harry asked bewildered. If it was possible for adults to Apparate minors, then why had he been forced to use that wretched Floo Network all these years?
The lycan chuckled again. "Yes, I can do that. Most wizards and witches don't like to do it, though. Apparition is hard and dangerous enough alone, but Side-Along-Apparition increases the risks threefold." Well, that at least answered Harry's previous question. "First thing's first. Take my arm, and make sure you hold on tightly; you don't want to slip off and get splinched." Harry made a nervous laugh, not quite sure if Remus was joking or if he really meant it. Either way, he figured it would be best to be cautious.
It was like being turned inside-out and squeezed through a bottle. When the two arrived a moment later, Harry was gasping for breath, still trying to rid himself of the suffocating feeling. After that, he understood why the wizarding world preferred the Floo (though, Harry preferred the Floo Sugar that Fred and George had invented just recently). "You okay there?" asked Remus while slapping Harry's back in hopes to help ease the coughing. Harry found in that moment that hitting someone on the back while they were choking was highly overrated and really didn't work. Harry staggered off, regaining his composure after a few minutes. "Heh, sorry about that. I suppose I should have warned you. I'm just so used to the feeling of Apparating now that I forgot how most people react the first time."
"It's o-okay. I'm better now," replied Harry, still coughing occasionally and rubbing his chest. It was then that Harry finally looked up to see where they'd landed and found himself unable to move.
They were standing in front of what looked like a large white-brick house about five stories high. Was this where he had once lived? He definitely didn't recognize the place. He couldn't really imagine having lived here. He was sure Remus must have made a mistake. "Is this . . .?"
"Follow me."
They headed up the winding stone path, but instead of continuing to the door as Harry had expected to do, they turned off just before reaching the house, Remus making his way around the side. The back of the house had massive grounds that stretched for acres. Part of it looked to be a place once used to practice Quidditch, and to the side there seemed to be a cemetery. At the site of the headstones, Harry's heart sped. Was Remus taking him where he thought he was?
There was a metal gate surrounding the cemetery. As Harry approached, the entrance to the gate slowly opened itself, as if expecting them. Harry followed Remus to a set of graves in the centre toward the back of the enclosing. There, he saw the name Potter engraved on many of the stones. This was his family. This was all that was left. Harry felt his breath hitch. He felt like he was apparating again; he couldn't breathe. The felling like he was the only one in the world washed over him. He felt so alone. How was he supposed to fulfil his destiny feeling like this? How was he supposed to do it alone?
"Harry? Are you okay?" Remus placed a hand on his shoulder, trying to comfort him. Harry tried to nod, but he'd just set eyes on three graves that looked newer than all the others: His parents and . . . Sirius.
His parents' graves shared one large headstone.
Lily and James Potter
1960-1981
Here lie the bodies of Lily and James Potter. Both courageous, intelligent, and the best friends anyone could ask for. You will always be loved by the lives you touched with yours. And know this: Your sacrifices will not be in vain. Rest in Peace.
Harry moved his eyes to the side to read what was said about his godfather:
Sirius Black
1960-1996
Honorary Potter and truest friend there ever was to the very end. Even after you've gone, it seems no one can take away the light your life brought to this world and those living in it. Rest in Peace.
"Maybe, I shouldn't have brought you here yet . . ." Remus's voice trailed off, bringing Harry out of his stupor.
"Wha-no. It's fine. I'm fine. I'm glad you brought me. I had to see them some time." Harry tried swallowing the lump in his throat but found it useless. The feeling of loneliness mingled with the few memories he still had caused his mind to go numb. He closed his eyes and focused on his breathing, trying to gather his thoughts. There was a soft breeze suddenly, and it wasn't until he felt the cold on his face that he realized he was crying. He wiped the tears away hastily, hoping Remus hadn't seen them, but somehow, he doubted it. "I really am glad you brought me. And now I know. I'm glad they can be here together," Harry finished in a whisper. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Remus give a stiff nod.
They stayed a few more minutes until Remus reminded Harry that they still had other things they needed to do. Before leaving, Remus conjured three lilies to place on the separate graves with a few parting words. "Rest in Peace, my friends. Rest in Peace."
After heading back to the house they'd started at, Remus asked, "So, which one do you want to tour first: the Potter Family Estate or your parents' cottage?"
"Wait? There are two?" asked Harry, clearly confused. No one had ever told him about this before. "Which one is this one?" wondered Harry aloud as he pointed to the large white brick house in front of him.
"That would be the Family Estate."
Harry shrugged. "We're already here. Might as well take a look around this one first."
The front door opened with a creak, the breach casting light into the dusty room. The front hall was enormous with a high ceiling and chandelier dangling overhead. A set of oak steps was set in front of them and wound up to the floors above. As they made their way around the house, Harry took note of all the different rooms there were. The ballroom was at least half the size of the Great Hall at Hogwarts, and the kitchen definitely showed signs of house-elf labour. They made their way into the upper floors with bedrooms to hold a family at least five times the size of the Weasley clan.
They finally came to the end of the top floor, but the final room was locked.
"Remus, what's in there?" asked Harry.
Remus began to chuckle. "I remember whenever James invited us over, we'd try everything we could to get into that room, but the lock would never give. I'm not really sure what is in there, but that was your grandfather's study. He'd lock himself up in there for hours on end and would never tell us what he was up to."
"Do you think we could get in there now?" Harry asked, his curiosity piqued.
"Well . . . there is one spell I haven't tried." Remus took a long look at the door before finally casting a silent unlocking charm of sorts. They waited patiently, but nothing happened. "I guess the old man was too good at keeping secrets," he muttered.
"Oh come on! There has to be a way in! Maybe there's a password? Did you ever see him go in there?"
Remus took a while to think before telling Harry to place his hand on the door where a knob would have been had there been one. He then tried the spell again with the same result. Harry was starting to get annoyed and started shouting off different things that could be used for passwords. "Sherbet lemon, Dissendium . . . Voldemort." Remus gave him a weird look. "What? It would be a good password because even if someone found out what it was, most would never actually say it aloud." Harry ran his hand through his hair, continuing with random things to no avail. Finally, in a last ditch attempt and only half joking, he said, "I solemnly swear that I am up to no good." To their shock, it actually worked.
Remus began to chuckle. "Like father, like son. I suppose that's where James got the password for the map," he said, trailing off in thought.
The door slid open to reveal tons of shelves and books scattered all over. The mess reminded him of Hermione during one of their many raids of the Hogwarts' library, and if Harry had to guess, it seemed that his grandfather had been searching for something. Remus walked around the shelves, glancing at the various titles that lined the walls, while Harry headed straight for the desk toward the back of the room. Papers littered the top with names scrawled everywhere, most having been scratched out. He found it a bit odd, until he took a look around and noticed the only decoration of any kind in the place on the wall behind him. It was a large poster with more names written all over it. Harry realized that it was a family tree-his family tree-as he recognized his father's name at the bottom. He traced his way up the line, not really recognizing any of the names until he got to the top. His eyes widened. It couldn't be could it? Though his mind thought it made some sense, it seemed too surreal. He couldn't take his eyes away from the name at the top: Godric Gryffindor.
"Harry? Are you ready to go?"
He jumped at the sound of Remus's voice, slightly nervous. He wondered if the lycan knew of his heritage or if the secret had died with his grandfather. Harry decided he'd like to keep his newly acquired knowledge to himself, and rushed to where Remus was in hopes of distracting him from his surroundings. "Yes, I'm ready. Let's go to Mum and Dad's place next," he said, rushing out the door. Remus gave him a slightly perplexed look at Harry's eagerness to leave but followed him out nonetheless.
They continued in the opposite direction down the path they had trailed earlier, turning off to the side as they left the manor. It was a good while before they came upon a small cottage secluded in the thick of trees on the outskirts of the backyard field. Harry didn't quite recognize the place, but he felt as if he knew it.
Remus cleared his throat a few times. "Are you sure you're re-"
"Yes, Remus," Harry cut in, sounding a bit more confident than he felt. They stepped up to the slanted and battered door. The twinge of unease he'd felt before was multiplying, and he almost asked to go back. Almost. His resolve hardened against the onslaught of dread rising in him and he pushed his way in. His eyes roved over the place, taking in the broken items and dust that littered the house. He could do this. It was be hard, but he'd been through much worse.
Their footsteps sounded like cannon blasts in the desolate dwelling. The hairs on the back of Harry's neck raised, and he felt almost as if he was violating the house, trespassing on the dead that once rested here. They were in the front hall, where it seemed most of the damage on the lower level had been done. Chunks of the wall were missing, and there were scorch marks everywhere. Harry swallowed; this was where his dad had . . . Memories started resurfacing; he could here his dad telling his mum to take him and run . . . hear the door bursting in and the mad cackling.
His nerves were so high strung that when the sound of glass breaking pierced the air, Harry had his wand trained on Remus so fast that the older man actually fell down from the shock of his movement. He apologised and helped his mentor up, not quite sure how to explain his reaction.
"It's all right, Harry," Remus assured him, dusting his robes off. "Anyone in your position would be on edge right now."
Harry nodded, and they continued in. It felt like he was in a trance. His feet took him up the stairs, as if someone else was controlling his body and he was just along for the ride. He could still hear the screams and laughter. There was a light, and finally, the screams stopped and all that remained was Voldemort's ghostly cackles. Then there was another flash of jade, a rumbling, and more screaming.
"Harry! HARRY!"
Harry woke from his flashback, heaving for breath. Lying before him were the remnants of a room torn open to the outside world. The floor had caved in along with the walls and most of the roof. Odd pieces of the broken house stuck up like spikes below. "Wha-what happened?" he managed.
"I think you were remembering that night. You ran up the stairs, straight to your old room. You're breathing became laboured and you started yelling. I was afraid you were going to keep going," he replied, pointing to where Harry stood. As he followed Remus's gaze, he realized he was only a few centimetres from the edge of the one-story drop. "I think, maybe, it was a mistake bringing you here."
"No. It's fine. Just bad memories. Like I said before, I had to come some time, right?" He tried to smile, but the hellish vision was still too close for him to manage it.
"I think we should leave now. Maybe, you can come back after the place has been fixed up."
"Fixed up?"
"Don't you want it to be?" asked Remus. "Nobody has done anything to the house since it was technically yours, and they weren't sure what you'd want to do with it. It would be nice if it was fixed up, though, don't you think?"
Harry nodded slightly, lost in his thoughts again. What would he do with the house? He couldn't really sell it, since it was technically still under the Fidelius charm. Maybe, Remus was right. It would be nice if it was cleaned up and redone. Maybe, when the war was over, he could call it home again . . . Maybe.
They Apparated back to Grimmauld's front door and made their way through the house to the main dinning area to be welcomed back with shouts of "surprise". There was a banner overhead that read "Happy Birthday Harry!" and a large cake sitting in the middle of the table sporting the same words. Harry didn't know what to say. It was the first birthday party he'd ever been given. He was helped along out of his shock by Hermione who told him to blow out the candles and make a wish. It was at that moment that he wished that they could remain like that forever: happy and whole.
They talked and laughed as the elder members reminisced about the "old days." Harry was even given a few extra presents that the group had saved for the party. It was one of the best times of Harry's life, and he committed every bit of it to memory.
The party began to dwindle after a few hours. The left-over ice cream had melted, and the final pieces of cake had been served. Laughter ensued when Ron asked if Ginny was going to eat the rest of her cake and she replied, "No, Ron, you can have it," and promptly shoved the half eaten piece in his face.
"Hey! You just ruined a perfectly good piece of cake!" Ron bit out.
"No, actually, I think I put it to pretty good use," Ginny commented as if talking about nothing more exciting than the weather.
Ron rolled his eyes and started licking off what he could, determined to not let the sugary goodness go to waste.
~*~*~
It was one in the morning according to Harry's new watch, and Ron was as dead to the world as ever when asleep. Again Harry found sleep eluding him and decided to at least do something productive. He carefully rummaged through his stuff, finding what he needed and headed to Sirius's old room for some privacy. He managed to make it without disturbing anyone else, at least, that was what he'd thought until he heard the door reopen behind him.
"Harry?" called a soft voice.
"Hermione? What are you doing here? What are you doing up?" he asked.
"Couldn't sleep. I heard someone banging around upstairs, so I thought I'd check it out."
"Sorry. I thought I was being quiet. I didn't mean to wake you."
She waved his apology aside. "I told you, Harry; I was already awake." They each stood in the middle of the room, unsure of what to do. "So . . . why are you up?" Hermione finally asked.
"Same as you. I couldn't sleep," he answered, shifting what he'd brought with him in his arms.
"What do you have there?" she asked, her curiosity piqued by his movement.
"Wha-oh. I just thought I'd take a look at what Dumbledore left me," He answered, holding out the stone basin he'd brought with him. "Do-do you want to see too?"
She nodded her head vigorously. "If you don't mind."
"I wouldn't have asked if I did." Their eyes caught briefly before Harry broke contact and headed over to the bed, placing the Pensieve on the wooden surface of a nightstand and scooting a sleepy Buckbeak to the floor so they could sit on the comforter.
"We still have to do something about him," Hermione noted absentmindedly, referring to the hippogriff lounging on the floor. She sat down next to Harry and asked, "What memories do you think he left you?" Her voice was eager with the mystery that awaited them in the Pensieve.
"I don't know, but we're about to find out." He placed the basin between them and tapped the swirling mist in the Pensieve with his wand, equally as eager as Hermione. The mist glassed over and showed a wintry scene. Harry told her to touch the Pensieve to enter it and followed her in with a rush of colours.
They landed clumsily in the snow, shivering a bit since they were both only in their night clothes. Hermione conjured up some cloaks for them to wear as they began searching around. As they took in their surroundings, they noticed that they were in Hogsmeade. Loud noise erupted behind them, both spinning to see a crowd of people seeking shelter in the Hog's Head. The group had their hoods up and scarves wrapped tightly around their heads to protect from the cold, making it near impossible to see their faces. As Harry looked on, he noticed a flash of red hair as they passed, and immediately recognized his mother. Grabbing Hermione's hand to tug her along, he followed.
"So, tell me, Lily, when is the wedding?" came a voice from one of the guys on the left.
Harry tensed; he'd know that voice anywhere.
Sirius.
"Harry, are you okay?" Hermione whispered to him, placing a hand on his shoulder. He nodded curtly and continued to follow the group in front of them.
It's just a memory. It's just a memory, he repeated to himself.
"Very funny, Black," Lily replied as she and the rest of the group removed their hoods.
Sirius touched a hand to his chest with mock sorrow in his eyes. "Lily, I'm hurt. Surely you can call me by my given name now that you and James are an item."
"Hey, don't get too cosy with her, Padfoot. She's mine," James said, jokingly.
"Oh no, Lily! He's found us out! What will we ever do?" Sirius exclaimed.
Lily just rolled her eyes, taking a seat next to James at a corner table. "I'm sorry, James. Will you ever forgive us?" she said dramatically, playing along.
"I don't know. That's a hard thing to deal with, Love. Maybe if you kiss me, I might forgive you," James replied with a smile lighting his face.
"I think I can handle that." She leaned into him, her arms wrapping around his neck as their lips touched. Harry could have sworn he heard Hermione sigh next to him, but it was forgotten as Sirius started gagging.
"Honestly, do you two have to do that now?" Sirius asked, his face contorted into one of disgust.
"Well, it was your fault we started. You should never have taken my girl." James laughed as Sirius gave him the finger.
"Hey guys, I'm going to go get us some drinks," said Remus. "Is butterbeer good?" Nods were exchanged, and he headed up to the bar causing the bartender to stop his conversation with another patron.
"This must have taken place soon after your parents first got together, Harry," whispered Hermione as the group laughed at something Pettigrew had said.
Harry's eyes lingered on the rat for a while, biting down the bitter taste in his mouth from seeing him so friendly with his parents. He forced himself to gaze away as he replied to Hermione's statement. "It seems that way. I wonder where Dumbledore is, though. This is supposed to be his memory isn't it? Where is he?"
They both searched the bar until Hermione pointed out the wizard who had been talking to the bartender earlier. They both recognized the long white beard of the headmaster. "I wonder what they are talking about?" she thought aloud.
"Who cares? Can't they just be having a friendly chat? I mean, Dumbledore gave me this memory so I could see my parents, not listen in on his conversation with a bartender."
She bit her lip in thought. "I supposed he could just be catching up with his brother . . ."
"Wait . . . What do you mean by 'his brother'?"
"Well, the bartender there is Aberforth, Dumbledore's brother," she replied as if it were common knowledge.
"How do you know that? Why hasn't he ever told me his brother ran the Hog's Head?" Harry couldn't help but feel a little bitter that Dumbledore had failed yet again to tell him something.
"It wasn't hard to figure out, Harry. After all, they do look similar. Look at Aberforth's eyes."
He did as she'd suggested, and noticed they were a brilliant blue. The two men did look similar. He felt a bit foolish for not having noticed before. It really was obvious that the two were related.
Their attention shifted back to the teens in the corner as Lily tried to reach across the table to strangle Sirius for some lewd comment he'd made about her and James. Sirius was having a spectacular time trying to hide behind Remus, while Pettigrew clapped his hands excitedly. James seemed to have sunken lower in his seat, trying to hide the blush that tinged his cheeks.
"James, will you call her off already?" Sirius complained.
"Why should I? You deserved it."
"Please?"
"Damn it. Why do you always have to use the puppy-dog eyes! It's not fair! You have an extra advantage against us with those things!" James whined as he pulled Lily toward him and held her in place, allowing Sirius to return to his seat. The boys all held a glint in their eyes from the private joke.
"It's just part of my lovable personality," said Sirius with a smirk.
Nearly everyone at the table snorted at that comment.
"What? I am lovable... and adorable. You even said it yourself the other night when we were-" Sirius was cut off by Remus as he smacked the boy across the back of the head.
"What are you trying to do, Padfoot? Give all our secrets away?" Remus whispered so Lily couldn't hear.
"Sorry," Sirius mumbled back. "I didn't mean to. I don't see why James can't just tell her we're animagi. I mean, she's kept everything else a secret."
"She can't know about you three being animagi yet because she doesn't know about my condition yet," he replied with a hint of frustration.
"So tell her your bloody condition, then. She's going to find out eventually, isn't she?"
"I can't do that!"
"Why?"
"What if she doesn't take it well and ends up breaking up with James over it? He'd never forgive me!" Remus was now getting red in the face.
"You're being stupid. Lily is better than that!"
The two continued to argue back and forth, not realizing how loud they were becoming. They only stopped when Lily cleared her throat. She was not happy.
"Is there something you boys want to tell me?" she asked, eyes narrowed.
"Yes-No," the two said at the same time.
"James, spill," Lily commanded, looking to her side.
"What? Why are you asking me? I don't even know what their fighting about!" James defended.
"Fine. But I will find out eventually, and until I do, no more kisses for you," she said, looking at James. "I'm leaving."
"Wait! What? Hang on! Remus, do something!" James pleaded.
"All right. All right. Lily, I'll tell you, but you have to promise not to flip out okay? Have a seat," Remus insisted. He took a deep breath to steady himself. His mouth opened a few times, but now words came out.
"Remus, just tell her, or I will!" Sirius growled.
"All right! Lily, I'm-I'm a werewolf." His face was twisted as if expecting her to explode at him.
"Oh," she said, "is that all?"
All four boys stared at her, fearing for her sanity.
"What?" she asked.
"You-You're not mad?" Remus asked.
"No. I already knew."
"But how?" His face mirrored the other three's confusion.
"No offence, Remus, but it wasn't exactly hard to figure out." She shrugged. "You were always sick on the night of the full moon. Plus, your boggart kind of gives you away. I've known since second year."
"Oh."
The group continued to talk for a while. Harry loved it. He got to see how his parents really were. They bickered at times, but it was almost always in a joking manner. He could tell they loved each other. It seemed like they had watched the scene for ages. Harry was only brought back to the rest of his surroundings when he felt Hermione squeeze his hand. Had they really been holding hands that whole time? She pointed towards the bar, and Harry looked to see Dumbledore getting up.
No, it was too soon! He didn't want to leave. Why was Dumbledore leaving? Harry ran after him, dragging Hermione along once more, to try and stop his mentor, but his hand went right through the man. The world began to swirl and fade into another scene.
They were in a low-lit room with a large table in the centre. Dumbledore was at one end while Remus and a few others were spread around the edges. Near them was a goblin holding up an old piece of parchment. Harry recognized him as the goblin he'd met earlier that day, Razorback.
"We will now begin the reading of the will of Sirius Black," Razorback pronounced.
Harry tensed at those words. He'd already been on an emotional rollercoaster that day; he wasn't sure if he could handle any more. He was close to stopping the memory and leaving, but then he felt Hermione's hand on his shoulder. She looked at him with determination in her eyes. "You can do this, Harry," she said. "Dumbledore felt you should hear this, so you should try for him at least. You're not alone. I'm right here with you." Their eyes met, and all he could do was nod. Their attention turned back to Razorback as he handed the parchment over to Dumbledore.
The headmaster began to read aloud, " 'This is the will of Sirius Black, of the city of London, made on Thursday, 30 June, 1994. This revokes all previous wills. I appoint Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore to be the executor of this will . . .' " Harry began to block his voice out as he talked of things Harry didn't quite understand. He looked to his side and noticed Hermione's undivided attention, never turning away from Dumbledore. His curiosity didn't pique again until close to the end when Dumbledore mentioned his name. "My executor shall pay or transfer the residue of my estate to Harry James Potter."
"Hermione, does that mean . . . What does that mean?" Harry asked.
"That means that you're supposed to get everything of Sirius's remaining assets. For example, Grimmauld Place is now yours," she answered.
"So that's what that goblin was talking about this morning. My new property . . . he must have meant Grimmauld Place."
"Harry, didn't you even look at the deeds?" she asked, perplexed.
"I glanced at some of the stuff Razorback gave me, but it wasn't like I sat down and read over everything."
Hermione rolled her eyes, and he could have sworn he'd heard her mutter, "Typical."
" 'Signed by Sirius Black in the presence of two witnesses who, at the request of Sirius Black and of each other, and believing Sirius Black to be of sound mind-shut up Remus-and body and under no duress, have subscribed our names as witnesses.' " Remus gave a small chuckle as Dumbledore finished the last line. A few small trinkets and papers were passed out to the people in the room before they left.
The world began to swirl once again, only this time Harry felt a tug as he did a backwards summersault and landed on shaky legs back in Sirius's old room at Grimmauld Place. The two were quiet for a while. They ended up sitting on the bed, each lost in thought.
Harry didn't really know what to think of the memories. The last one was informative, he guessed. He was grateful for the first one, though. He finally really got to see how his parents acted around each other. They had seemed happy. He wondered if he'd ever have what they'd had. He looked over to Hermione, noticing how she bit her lip like she always did when in deep thought. He'd started to find it endearing over the years. He couldn't help the small smile that crept onto his face.
"What? Is my hair messed up or something?" she asked, noticing his gaze.
"N-no. I was just . . . never mind. It's nothing." He turned away from her to stare into the Pensieve again.
"I hate it when you do that! You won't tell me what's going on in that head of yours and it drives me insane!" she pouted. He smiled again and sighed. His body was starting to feel heavy as his eyes drooped. He pushed himself back farther on the bed to lie down. Hermione moved to lie next to him, both facing each other. "Tell me what's on your mind?" she whispered, pushing his fringe from his eyes and tracing her fingers down his cheek.
"It's just . . ." he began, not sure how to phrase what he wanted to say.
"Yes?" she coaxed.
"You saw my parents, right? You saw how they were?"
"Yes, I did," she said, waiting for him to continue.
"It's just . . . I wonder if I'll ever have what they had. Will I ever be that happy? This whole war . . . it takes everything worthwhile away. What if I don't survive? I'll never get the chance to be happy like that," he said softly, his voice filled with sadness. He closed his weary eyes, willing his emotions to stop running rampant.
"Don't worry, Harry. I'm sure you'll get the chance. I'm sure you'll find someone you can be happy with." The voice was a soft whisper . . . so far away. He was barely able to comprehend it. He felt something touch his check, something warm and soft, before he was completely gone.
He opened his eyes noticing a soft glow in the room. It was already morning. He tried to sit up but was unable to due to the weight pressing on his chest. He looked down to see soft brown curls everywhere. Hermione had stayed with him last night. He couldn't take his eyes away from her face. She looked so peaceful while sleeping, her features completely relaxed and worry free. Every curve seemed so soft in the dim light of dawn. She seemed unreal . . . like an angel.
He couldn't help himself. He had to touch her cheek. It was just as soft as it had looked. Her eyes were still closed, and her lips were slightly parted. They looked soft too. He ran his fingers down her cheek to trace along her lips. Yes, they were also just as soft as they had looked. He wondered what they would feel like against his own. Tentatively, he leaned down. He ran his thumb across her bottom lip once more before slowly pressing his lips to hers. The feeling was incredible, like running his skin across silk. It was intoxicating, and he pressed his mouth against hers harder, deepening the kiss. He could feel her begin to respond to him as she awoke. She brought her hand up to run through his hair, pulling his head closer to her. They broke the kiss only to catch their breath, lingering only a hairsbreadth away from each other.
"Harry," Hermione whispered. "Harry."
"HARRY!"
Harry woke up suddenly, cursing the end of a pleasant dream. The first thing he noticed was that Hermione was on top of him, clinging to him as if her life depended on it.
"Harry, put us down!" she demanded. He was completely confused. What was she talking about? "Harry, I swear, if you don't put us down this instant, I'm going to . . . well, I don't know what I'll do, but put us down anyway!" It was then that he took a better look at his surroundings. They were floating in the air. Not for long, though; the moment he realized what was happening, they both fell to the bed with a soft thump.
"What was that all about?"
~*~*~
A/N: *Warning: slight book-six spoiler.* Eh, so I finally took the time to read that interview that JKR gave confirming Ron and Hermione's relationship. That part of the interview was thoroughly depressing! I was cringing the whole time. Right now I feel like something slimy is squirming around inside of me, and I seriously need a Harry/Hermione fix. But, I realized something. To me, it has been obvious that Ron liked Hermione, but I kind of always hoped it wouldn't work out, and she'd end up with Harry in the end. I think the reason why I've been such an avid fan of the Harry/Hermione pairing is because I wanted Harry to finally feel like he wasn't always alone. The thing he had with Ginny was fleeting and seemed meaningless. Hermione has been by his side through practically everything, and if they ended up together, then Harry would at least have a little love and happiness he could hold onto. I realised that's why I adore the H/Hr ship so much . . . because I don't want Harry to end up alone.
I had a few reviewers ask if HBP was the reason for why I haven't updated in a while, and I can tell you all now, that isn't the case. Even though it's pretty obvious Harry and Hermione won't be getting together in the real books, it's still my favorite pairing, and I'm not giving it up. JKR seems to be trying to make Harry save the world on his own, but I don't think it should be that way. That's one of the reasons why Harry isn't like Voldemort; he has friends and people he can trust and rely on. That's one reason why I think he needs Hermione. So, book six is not getting in the way. And like I've said before, I've got my plot figured out already. I just haven't been able to find the time to write. I'm going to school full time, starting my own business, doing tons of volunteer work, and on top of that when I actually do have time to myself, I'm cooking, cleaning, hanging out with my friends and catching up on my own romantic life (so to speak). I've almost forgotten the meaning of sleep, it seems. I just need people to keep getting on my case to write. ;-P
I thank you all for being so patient with me. This chapter took the longest to finish, but to make up for the wait, it's also the longest chapter, around 9,600 words.
As far as Harry being the Heir of Gryffindor goes, I realize that JKR has pretty much shot that theory down, but it's necessary for my plot. So, don't go on about how it "shouldn't" be that way. This is my version. I can write what I want. However, I do like hearing theories. If you think you've figured something out, then say it in your review. It's fun to see who picks up on my clues, and it's possible I might give something away (though, I don't really think anyone will be able to figure out my plot exactly).
Thanks for all the reviews and for those of you who gave me a little shove.
As always, thanks to my beta, Nati, for checking over my work when I've become so sick of reading over it that I can't stand to look at it anymore.
-Amie