Yo-Ho and a Bottle of...Firewhiskey?

1. Losing and Finding

A/N~ Hello lovely readers! Yes I bring you another little ficcy I've had stored on my computer for several months. So after I saw the new `Pirates' movie in July…I had an idea…write a little fic with our favorite wand brandishing characters. I think it has been done before….but I'm not sure. Anyway this is my take on the concept…let me know what you think. Also I have a few one-shots posted so you might want to check those out if you're so inclined. Happy reading!

Hugs and Kisses

FuryOfMedea

Disclaimer~ Mmmm yeah I don't own any of this…sorry to disappoint.

Chapter 1

“50 Men were wounded in the battle from the theft of 5000 gold Galleons from Gringotts last Saturday evening. The culprit, Lord Voldmort is considered extremely dangerous along with his ship `The Horocrux' and his followers the `Death Eaters”, that have thus far not been able to be followed by the ministry. After the theft of the gold, the Dark Lord along with his band of Death Eaters, were trailed for several leagues by Commodore Albus Dumbledore; captain of `The Fawkes” and leader of “The Order of the Phoenix”. The Order has been established to help catch and destroy as many dark wizard ships as possible. The ministry still claims that Voldemort and the Death Eaters are just `simple pirates' and are of no danger to the populace. The `Order' knows better and encourages awareness in all communities. Several ships in Dumbledore's command, `The Stag' along with `The Moon Bayer' followed Commodore Dumbledore in pursuit of the villains. The Aurors on the ships lost said thieves in the heavy fog, just as they passed the bay, three leagues into the open sea….”

“Why would Lord Voldemort need all that gold? It is such a large amount, more than he needs for whatever evil ventures he ensues…right?”

A very bright young witch sat in her private classroom reading the article from the rebel magazine “the Quibbler” and pondered this question. She was forced to hide it among her other books and assignments since it would not be proper for a lady of her station to be seen reading such a paper. Especially when she was supposed to be studying.

But as to the exact reasons why the paper was forbidden to her, there are several in fact. First and foremost, it is only proper for a lady, such as herself to read “Witch Weekly”, for the fashion and household spells and any other gossipy tidbits deemed lady-like. Or “The Daily Prophet”, if permitted by her husband or father.

The Quibbler was founded by a supporter of the `Order of the Phoenix', and was banned by ministry ordinance. They believed it promoted unneeded fear for Lord Voldemort and spread rumors of the Dark Arts in the high seas.

Second her actual station did not permit it, or much else for that matter. Anything that could be considered `fun' could be scratched off the list for the witch. The young woman reading the paper was the Lady Hermione Jane Granger, daughter of Lord Jonathan Granger, Governor of Hogsmeade and surrounding territories. It hosted a large costal community of wizards and the prominent shipping industry for the wizarding world.

The magazine in question was formed by the group of rebels who did not like to sugar coat the true evilness of Lord Voldemort or the abilities of his Death Eaters. He was a powerful wizard who commanded several ships and would have been of high social ranking, a Commodore, had he not been considered a pirate. The Ministry tried to convince the wizarding world that he was just another plunderer and a normal wizard with no exceptional powers, at least not any more. They could not even print his name in the papers, they resolved to `You-Know-Who'. While the Quibbler kept to Lord Voldemort. The Ministry was at a loss about the situation now; they could not cover up the stolen gold or any suggestions as to why he wanted it. They could not cover up what had happened seven years ago, or deny why the Potter family was so famous. But that explanation will come in good time.

For now Hermione sat with her disguised copy of the article, she was a very clever witch and did not want to be caught reading it. The punishment for performing such magic however, was unthinkable. Her wand would be snapped in half, forced to live as a muggle in the magic world. The witches in society were permitted to only know spells and charms for beauty, household duties and the like. They were not to be instructed in matters of defense or any other forms of magic ever. God forbid they should be able to disarm their husbands and fathers!

But Hermione happily and secretly escaped this horrible solitude. At the tender age of thirteen years she had chased off her last tutor, a Ms. Dolores Umbridge and was replace with a Madam Nymphadora Tonks. Madam Tonks, Hermione later found out, was in fact a member of the `Order' and trained to be an Auror. Both of which were forbidden in society, thus intriguing the young witch..

After knowing one another for several months and gaining each other's trust, Madam Tonks began to instruct Hermione like an Auror, in spells of defense, charms and even potions that her station would never permit, ever! And it was all taught in secret. Thus five years later at the age of eighteen, Hermione was well accomplished in magic, most of which was illegal for her to know. This knowledge gave her a small smile inside, that she knew more than she was supposed to know, more than most women did know.

There was one portion of magic Hermione was still mastering. Tonks had taught her how to summon and fight with a Silver Saber, a beam of silver light emitted from one's wand that acted and felt just as a metal sword except it was a beam of light. But you were still be able to cast other spells while the saber was out. However, it was considered better form just to fence with the sabers and not involve other spells. It was the noble thing to do.

Hermione's mind had been taken back to her favorite subject because of the article. Wizarding pirates. She read all she could about them and Madam Tonks had told her fantastic stories from when she was on the high seas with her pirate love. It was all horribly romantic and adventurous, and Hermione could never hear enough. It made her feel rebellious in a society filled with manners and rules, that along with knowing `forbidden magic'.

Madam Tonks walked into he small classroom and smiled when she saw her star pupil lost in her thoughts.

“Probably thinking about pirates again the little bugger…article must have got that started up again.” She thought.

“Interesting article eh Hermione?” Hermione jumped at her tutor's voice and smiled at the older woman.

“Yes it was very interesting. Especially that part about `The Stag' chasing Voldemort…” she smiled shyly.

Tonks sighed, ”Hermione, Hermione, do I need to remind you? You Lady, them pirates. Get the picture?”

Hermione laughed, “Yes I do, thanks Tonks. But I do have one question, what was all the gold for?”

“I really have no idea. I haven't heard from Remus…” Tonks stopped and a pained look crossed her face.

Madam Tonks had once sailed the high seas with her pirate paramour Remus Lupin. He also happened to own and captain `The Moon Bayer', but was now forced by the Ministry to live in exile because he supported Dumbledore and the fight against Voldemort. Being a werewolf didn't help much either. He was the reason Tonks knew so much about pirates and advanced magic, he had taught her most of it and it was he who trained her to be an Auror. He had forced her to go ashore shortly after he was branded a pirate and given a sentence of exile, he wanted her to have a better life. It killed her not to be with him. Lupin's ship rode along with `The Order of the Phoenix' as they hunted down the dark wizards.

Lupin still wrote to Tonks when he could, but tried not to draw suspicion, or interrupt her life as a respectable tutor and governess.

“You miss him don't you?” Hermione laid her hand on Tonks back as the tutor choked back a sob.

“Yes I do, but come now we need to concentrate on your lessons.” Tonks smiled and straightened up.

Both witches pulled their wands and muttered, `saberus' and silver beams of light about three feet long shot from both wands. They looked just like muggle swords, except they were protruding from the wands. The ladies took their positions.

“Unguard!” Tonks slashed forth and Hermione countered swinging her saber down into a graceful arc to meet the tutor's blade with a resounding `clang'.

They continued to fence until the sun hung low in the sky and the world turned pink. The Governor's mansion sat overlooking the bay, watching the sun sink into the waves, the water blazing like fire.

“You did much better today Hermione, you foot work is improving, but you still need to concentrate on your opponent's next move.”

“Yes I know, I'm trying,” Hermione breathed in heavily as Tonks handed her a book.

“What's this?” She flipped to the marked page.

“Thought you might find it interesting is all, good day my lady.” Tonks swept out of the room leaving a slightly shocked Hermione in her wake.

The book was one she had never seen before, ever. She had read almost every pirate book she could get her hands on, but had never seen this one. This book however was not printed but hand written. It seemed to be more of a diary or a personal account. The page in question had a very interesting heading, the most interesting in fact. It was one thing Tonks refused to tell her about, until now.

The Potter's Plunders

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The sea was calm that morning and blue as a cornflower. Ten year old Hermione stood and looked out over the bow of the ship, wanting to see something, anything.

The ship was taking them to Hogsmeade, where her father Lord Granger was to be Governor and command the Ministry's out post there. Hermione did not care where she was going; secretly she wanted to just see a pirate, their flag, ship or anything.

She stared at the water and got lost in her thoughts, as she was prone to do, and brought out of it when she heard a commotion. The crew was hauling up a small lifeboat with a boy in it. He looked to be about her age with jet black hair that was splayed everywhere. He seemed to be unconscious but was still breathing.

Her father pointed his wand at the boy, “Evenerate” he commanded. The boy began to stir and sat up looking frightened. Her father only smiled at him, “Now there young man, no need to be frightened. What happened to you? Why were you adrift in that boat?”

“Attacked…ship…pirates…destroyed…” He stammered and then passed out again.

The crew instantly sprang to life at the mention of pirates, setting up extra watches and taking down the Governor's sails. Not wanting to make a target of themselves.

Hermione was hustled below along with the unconscious boy she was to watch over.

“More like to keep me out of trouble, or from seeing pirates. Honestly they can't be still around here.” She thought grumpily.

She sat in a chair and sulked, occasionally glancing at the boy who had floated up to the ship. He looked like he had been though hell and back. He was bruised and cut all over his body. His clothes were torn and he had a large lightening bolt scar on his forehead. He didn't look to be a merchant's son exactly but not a pirate either. There was something about him she couldn't place.

She found herself hovering over him, when he awoke with a start.

“Who..who are you, w-where am I?” He stammered.

Hermione helped him to sit up, “It's all right, and you're on a ministry ship “The Extractor”, heading to Hogsmeade. I'm Hermione Granger and you are?”

“Harry Potter. Where are my father and my mother? What happened to our ship?”

“I'm sorry Harry, I don't know. All we found was you adrift.”

“Oh” Harry looked down and sighed, a tear slid from his eye and he wiped it away.

“If it makes you feel better, we are less than a day from Hogsmeade, we should be there this evening.”

“Oh,” he replied very slowly as if he was thinking deeply.

“Do you want to talk about what happened?”

“Voldemort. He attacked us, the whole fleet. My Dad told every one to scatter, make them harder to follow. Then Voldemort was on our ship and then there was this green light and then I remember waking up here.” He put his head in his hands and sobbed, “Dad told me and Mum to run and we did but… but I couldn't …”

“Harry I'm so sorry. That's horrible. This Lord Voldemort person seems to be a monster! From what I've heard about him, he can't be human.”

Harry looked up at her and gave her a small smile that she returned.

“You look tired, why don't you sleep some more and I'll wake you when we get into port.” Harry nodded and fell promptly asleep. Hermione watched him and noticed a small gold ball on a chain around his neck. It was about the size of a shooter marble and it faintly glowed a warm golden light.

Hermione woke up the boy when the ship docked into port. He walked down the gangplank with her and looked around like a scarred rabbit looks for a hawk.

“Hermione I need you to do something for me, I need you to keep this.” He handed her the golden glowing necklace and pressed it in her hands.

“I… Harry what is this.. why…?”

“Please I can't explain.Can you just keep it for a few days for me, please? It means a lot to me. It was my mother's.”

“I… yes I will. But how will I find you?”

“Don't worry, I'll find you, just keep it a secret, you can't tell anyone ever.”

“Alright I'll keep it for you.”

“Thanks Hermione”.

Hermione heard her father call her and turned her back to Harry. “I'll be right there father.”

“Harry…” But he was gone; he had disappeared into the crowds.

“Harry..Harry…”she called.

“Harry, Harry… but what...” Hermione woke with a start, breathing hard. It had been a dream, all a dream. Except that it had happened long ago.

Hermione knew from The Quibbler that the Potters owned `The Stag', were with `The Order of the Phoenix' and that they were attacked by Lord Voldemort one day, and that was all she ever read. Madam Tonks told Hermione she would tell her the story one day (“When you're older Hermione!”) since Remus was a good friend of the Potters she had been associated with them before they died. The book Madam Tonks gave her however told some interesting details. Between her memory of Harry and the book from Tonks she was able to piece the whole story together.

One of the Potter's old friends literally `ratted' out their secret hiding spot to the Death Eater's. It was an island that was constantly moving, never in the same place twice. It was also headquarters for the `Order of the Phoenix', Grimmauld Isle.

Lord Voldemort was trying to recruit the entire `Order' to his Death Eaters. Captain James Potter had refused and battled Voldemort to the death. His wife Lily put Harry on a lifeboat and handed him her necklace to keep him calm, but went back when she heard her husband call out in anguish. Lily tried to stand up to Voldemort and protect her son but he sent a killing curse straight to her heart. Voldemort tried to kill Harry after his mother, but there was an odd explosion when he did and the next thing Harry knew he was on a lifeboat in the middle of the sea.

Harry gave Hermione his mother's necklace for safekeeping from Death Eaters and then disappeared to find his Godfather, Sirius Black. It took him only a few hours to find Sirius and his ship `The Dog' tied up at the docks. Incidentally the name of the ship had been a long-standing joke since Sirius was known to love and I mean really love women. Several a week in fact. And it was also the animal he was able to change into.

Harry was taken away and raised on Grimmauld Isle by Sirius and James' other friend Remus Lupin, teaching him to be an Auror like his father had been. They had also been friends with Peter Pettigrew, until he sold them to Voldemort. Peter had the ability to turn into a rat and was able to get information that way to benefit the Dark Lord. Harry had planned to fight Lord Voldemort along with the Ministry of Magic to avenge his parents. `The Stag' was repaired by magic and set out onto open waters with Harry as Captain-to-be when he came of age. Unfortunately a year or so after Lord Granger became Governor, the Aurors were divided. Minister Fudge made many laws concerning auror authority and where they stood on Lord Voldemort. The Minister was denying that he had any power at all and that he was no threat to the magical community. Many Aurors had seen first hand how powerful Voldemort really was and thus the internal war erupted. You were either with the Ministry or with the Order. Those who went against the Ministry were branded as pirates and sentenced to the gallows or into exile.

The towns and people were forbidden to trade with other ports unless they swore their allegiance to the Ministry, thus cutting off the pirates' funding for the ships and initially `The Order'. Large taxes were also placed on certain magical items to prevent any stockpiling by `The Order' against the Ministry. It was an attempt by the Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge, to get rid of the up-risers. It had no effect however; people will get along by any means necessary. So began rum running and smuggling of different goods and association with those of ill repute.

The wizard pirates were born almost overnight and they had been making headlines for the last ten years.

Because of the laws and ridiculous taxes, Harry grew up being pirate of sorts, plundering the rich to help the poor (and keep his ship in shape), hunting down Death Eaters and the occasional illegal trading of homemade rum and other items should he come across them. The rum was courtesy of his crewmate Seamus Finnigan, who could charm it out of water.

`The Stag' was still in league with `The Order of the Phoenix', hence its appearance in the Quibbler. Harry himself however appeared in a few articles on the `Witch's Pages', the ladies' area of the Quibbler. He was said to be dashing, handsome, adventurous and quite the playwizard. What witch wouldn't be enamored? Hermione for one thought it was utter rubbish, or she hoped it was. The man in the Witch's Pages did not seem to be much like the courteous, scared boy she met on the ship that day.

Hermione sat up in bed, still reeling from her dream. She was able to piece together what had happened that day they found Harry from her own memory and the information in Tonks' book. After all, no one knew it was she that had the necklace. Harry had never come for it.

She suddenly became panicked, was the necklace still in its hiding place? She rolled out of her four-poster bed and dove under it. Her large orange cat, Crookshanks was dozing directly under where Hermione slept. She had to move his large bulk to even get under the bed!

She crawled to the spot where the rugs ended and revealed about a foot long strip of wood floor. She popped up one of the planks and pulled out the necklace from the small crevice in the floor. The golden ball however, was not glowing. It hadn't since the day after Harry left it with her. It now looked like a chunk of amber set in gold. At least it didn't look important, and that way no one would think it to be dangerous.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Weeks had passed since she had the dream about sailing to Hogsmeade, about meeting Harry. There was also nothing more in `The Quibbler' about Voldemort's attacks, nothing was happening. It was all too quiet, too still to feel safe. The Daily Prophet only reported that some gold was stolen but did not illustrate any further on the matter. Not much surprise there.

Madam Tonks and Hermione were paying attention to their lessons again (and they were the boring type), of manners, writing technique and other tedious ladylike skills.

It was after lunch and hours before dinner when Hermione nodded off while Tonks was teaching. The tutor smiled and shook her pupil awake.

“Hermione, wake up. We really should finish this lesson.”

“Oh Tonks I'm so sorry, I just… ah…it' so…”

“Yes this is dreadfully boring isn't it? Well then lets do something else shall we? We actually can pick this up later.”

Hermione thought it best to ask some questions that had been forming since she read the book Tonks gave her along with the article.

“Tonks, why does Minister Fudge want to discourage the power of Lord Voldemort?”

“One word, ego! He wants to be the one to sound the alarm, not let Commodore Dumbledore have that glory. It also means dealing with a great danger that he wants to ignore. It would cause a great panic, again. He isn't man enough to face that reality.”

“Why did he outlaw `The Order', they are trying to get rid of Voldemort right?”

“Yes, Dumbledore suspects that Voldemort is planning something very important. Something that will help him take over the magical world and do what he wants, get rid of who he wants. As for why? The Ministry is afraid of a take-over by `The Order'. Like I said it's mostly ego on their part.”

“But he can't do anything yet because he is obviously looking for something, to help him. That something, rumor has it, belongs to Harry Potter, or is Potter himself, right?”

“Hermione you are too smart for your own good.” Tonks smiled, “Yes that night Voldemort attacked the Potter's ship and tried to kill Harry, something went wrong and it backfired. Voldemort has taken years to recover and now it looks like he is out to take over again. He has been too weak these last nine years, but now, we are in great danger.” She shifted uncomfortably in her seat.

Hermione nodded in response.

“Is Harry what they make him out to be in the Witch's Pages? When I met him he seemed to be so…nice and not at all capable of doing anything wrong.” she asked timidly.

Tonks laughed out loud, “Oh well sort of, I mean they do exaggerate a great deal to make him more fanciable for the women. He is defiantly gossip worthy. But all that Boy-Who-Lived talk and what he does on the high seas is true. He may be a little rough but it's how he survives and gets rid of evil. He never does anything wrong without a very good reason. Remus and Sirius have taught him well in all aspects.”

“Just like you taught me?” she gave a wry smile.

“Yes milady, just like I taught you.” She smiled back.

“Tonks, umm do you trust Lord Lucius Malfoy? Or his son Sir Draco for that matter?”

Madam Tonk's features darkened and she replied through clenched teeth, ”Why?”

“There…there is something about then that scares me, the way they look at me and what might be going on in their heads…”

“There has been talk for years that they are both Death Eaters, but there is no proof. I am positive Lucius is very friendly with the Dark Lord and Dumbledore agrees. He is also very friendly with Minister Fudge, pushing Galleons down his throat to keep him happy. Why do you think the Minister denies the return of Voldemort, Lord Malfoy tells him its impossible! Right little puppet our minister is.”

“Mmm yes that make loads if sense. You know his son Sir Draco is considered a suitor of mine?”

“Oh little Draco, yes with his own little boat and ministry approved Aurors at his disposal. Just like his father, does everything he is told; probably does a lot of dirty work if you ask me! Most of those so called Aurors in their crews are Death Eaters in disguise. Stay away from him Hermione, he's hazardous to your health.”

Hermione smirked, “Yes that sounds a lot like Draco, cowering in his father's shadow.” Tonks nodded in response.

“I was wondering just as much. There is that dinner tonight; all of father's friends will be there, even the Malfoys.”

“Yes, from what I've heard Lucius does seem adamant about you for his son. That makes me very nervous. Why you?”

“Ummm..” Hermione was at a loss for words.

“I'm not implying that you aren't perfect or anything,” Tonks smirked and Hermione giggled, “But why you when there are other girls easier to engage to young Malfoy? He could have been married two years ago! Pansy Parkinson's father had several meetings with the Malfoy's about marriage. The question is, why hold out to try and get just you.” Tonks gave Hermione a questioning glance. “What do you have that they don't? What does Malfoy want from you.”

“I uhh have no idea. Honestly I wish I knew.”

Tutor and pupil fell into a silence and thought about what was to come that night and only gave each other small glances, a silent conversation only they could understand. Madam Tonks was afraid for Hermione and for their way of life. She also feared for Remus, her love, who she had not received word from in over a month.

Hermione thought about the dinner and how she longed to get away, far away from all of the polite conversations and the ways of being The Lady Hermione. She wanted to be just Hermione, to have an adventure, once. Just to live and know she wasn't dead from the monotonous life she held.

The clock in the room struck four in the afternoon and brought both women out of there dreams of being far away from that little room in that big house in all of that pomp and circumstance.

But what was to come that evening was even more than they both imagined.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The early evening was cool, the sea was calm and a light breeze danced along the sails of `The Stag' in the setting sun. Harry Potter stood on deck looking out onto the colony of Hogsmeade, watching for any odd movement in the harbor.

“Are you sure about this Harry?” A tall red head approached the captain and gazed in the same direction.

“Yes, Ron. I am. Snape heard their planning to do it tonight, it is the only chance Lucius will have to get into the house and look for it.”

Ron only nodded his head in response.

Ronald Weasley was Harry's First Mate on ship and best friend in all other arenas. They had met shortly after his parent's deaths and the entire Weasley family now rode on his ship.

“How are we going to get into said party? I mean its not like out wanted posters boast us as preferable guests.”

Harry smiled, “Oh I have a plan for that, or should I say Fred and George have a plan for that. They are masters of disguise you know; with a few spells your hair is a different color and then your eyes. You can grow an inch or two...”

“Polyjuice?”

“Yep.”

“Whose hair?”

Harry smirked maliciously, “You'll see.”

Ron grunted in response, “Uh huh.” He paused, “Harry how do you know that it is at the party at the Governor's mansion? I mean that's an odd place for it to be don't you think?”

Harry was caught off guard, he had never explained how or why or who. Just where it was and how important it was to get it back.

“I… uhh I just know Ron that's all.”

“Uh huh. So tell me mate, exactly how did you lose this valuable piece of family history eh? Did it just slip out of your hand right after you mother gave it to you? Then some servant girl picked it up and kept it?”

“Watch it Ron…” Harry was tense.

“Oh yeah I know about her. I overheard the Malfoys talking about her at the Hog's Head a few nights ago, seems ole' Lucius saw you talk to a girl, before you disappeared. He said she looked like she was a servant for a rich family.”

“He…WHAT! YOU NEVER TOLD ME…” Harry was furious that his best friend would with hold such important information, even thought they already knew about it before then. It was the principle of the matter.

Ron cut him off, “WELL THEN TELL ME WHAT HAPPENED! All you ever talk about is `finding it', never how you lost it or know how to find it. It would be nice to tell your best mate at least.” Ron slumped his shoulders, Harry never hid things from him.

“Ron, I …look I should have told you exactly what I did with it, but I didn't know it was going to be difficult to get it back. I thought she was just a house girl at the time… I didn't know she was…”

“You've lost me mate. It's as though you're telling me this girl isn't who she says she is. What is she… a bloke in drag?”

Harry sighed and in a low voice explained that whole day. From being found adrift to meeting Hermione and then asking her to hold on to the necklace for him. At the time he thought she was a servant girl, she was dressed in a modest cotton dress with no jewels. And why would a young lady be on deck of a ship, unless she was a servant traveling with her employers?

It wasn't until years later when he thought to go back and find her did he realize she was the Lady Hermione, daughter of an important political figure, who supported the Ministry. This made things much more difficult.

Ron's eyes were wide when Harry finished his story, ending with his recent knowledge of the necklace's keeper.

“So you gave her the necklace to keep safe for a while and when you come back, you find out she's a Lady, the Governor's daughter, keeping a pirate's necklace.” Ron burst out laughing.

“Yes” Harry replied weakly running a hand through his messy hair.

“You've really done it this time mate. Fred and George will be so proud, a pirate taking a favor from Governor Granger's daughter. That is better than anything you could have made up.”

“I'm so glad your amused Ron.” Harry replied tensing up again.

“No really Harry I'm sorry mate. I should have told you about Malfoy.”

“I should have told you about... you know. Promise you won't say anything to anyone else.”

“The Captain Harry Potter, the great wizard and the Chosen-One, doesn't want to admit he needed help from a witch? Or is it you don't want to involve one more person is this dangerous scheme? Or is it both?”

“Yeah something like both.” Harry mumbled.

“So what time does this party start?”

“In about an hour, we better go get ready. Don't forget to bring Lupin and Sirius's wands. They'll need them when we break them out of jail.”

Ron looked at his friend slightly confused, “Why exactly did they get themselves locked up, willingly again?”

“They just took a stroll in front of the Auror office and being wanted for pirating and all, got caught rather quickly. But, you'll understand when we get there, this plan is genius if I do say so myself. ”

“Harry…” Ron sent a warning tone.

“Ron, trust me. Tonight we are going to make our beloved Lupin and Sirius be in two places at once if you get the drift.” Harry winked and flashed Ron a thousand watt smile that made most witches weak in the knees.

Realization dawned on Ron who smiled back, “Yes Harry that is pure genius. Lets go get ready!”

The two boys walked down to the Captain's cabin to change into the party clothes and down the glasses full of potion.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hermione was in her room being tied up in her corset when Tonks came flying in saying she needed a moment with Lady Hermione.

The house elf hopped off the bed and left the two women alone.

“Tonks what's wrong?” Hermione looked at her friend's tear stained face.

“Her..Hermione, he's here, in the jail!” she stammered thought sobs.

“Who's in jail?”

“Remus!”

“What! How did this happen?”

“I heard he was captured along with Sirius Black earlier tonight, without their wands! They were walking in front of the Auror Office. Oh Hermione, something's wrong! Please promise me to be careful around Malfoy tonight at dinner! He's up to something, they all are! And I am afraid it has to do with you.”

“But why me? What importance am I...”

Tonks had calmed down considerably and was able to think like the dark wizards did.

“Hermione, if they kidnapped you…” Tonk's eyes told her the rest and Hermione nodded in understanding.

If the Death Eaters kidnapped her, they would have leverage for a takeover and be able to search easily for whatever it was they wanted.

“Oh.. err right. Say Tonks?”

“Yes?”

“Have you ever been to a fancy dinner?”

“Oh not really why?”

“Would you like to?” Hermione grinned mischievously and Tonks nodded an affirmative.

“Yes well we best get ready then shall we Lady Hermione?”

“Yes I think we shall.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

In the Harbor all was quiet at this time of day. The crews were in pubs having a drink with dinner and possibly the company of a young lady. The captains were writing in their logs or enjoying a quiet meal. The only movement was of that on board a small but grand ship, `The Ferret'.

There were lights on in the captain's cabin as Draco Malfoy dressed for dinner and was briefed by his father.

“Draco, your orders are to get the necklace from the mansion and then bring it back to me and then set sail for our island. You will have ample time to search while I distract the Governor and his daughter. Check the servant's quarters first then the safe…”

“Yes father I know how to find something,” Draco drawled as he put on his dinner coat.

“I am not joking Draco, this is your only chance, and your last chance. After that incident with Dumbledore, you couldn't even get a shot off. It is embarrassing, and then McNair had to bail you out, we didn't even succeed! Dumbledore is still alive. At least no one saw you and they think he is a cracked old fool or you would have ruined this plan as well.”

“Alright father I will succeed, but only if you keep Potter out of my hair for one bloody evening! That damn pirate is always mucking up my plans, he was the one who foiled...”

“Enough of your whining. Just find the servant girl and get the necklace from her!” Lucius swept out of the cabin and headed for the rowboat to head to the party.

“I will succeed father, and kill Potter while I'm at it!” he muttered under his breath.

Taking a last look in the mirror, Draco headed off to the dinner party.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“This is a very enjoyable evening, wouldn't you say Padfoot?”

“Yes I would Mooney. The décor of bars and stone are particularly my taste. And I must complement the chef on the gruel, very delectable.”

Lupin and Sirius sat in a jail cell biding the time until the appointed hour when Harry and Ron would rescue them. And the plan would be set in motion.

“Do you think this plan will work Sirius?” Lupin looked at the moon that was half full and sighed.

“I hope so, he's been planning it for several weeks now.”

“Do you really think a servant girl found the necklace like he claims?”

“Doubt it.”

“I have a suspicion as to really has the necklace, even though your Godson has conveniently forgotten her name.” Sirius shifted in his seat to face his friend, “Oh really, who?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Hermione”, Tonks sighed as she fluffed out the periwinkle dinner dress, “Are you sure this is going to work, I don't know if I can be you for even an hour.” She looked in a mirror and a reflection of Hermione looked back at her.

“Yes it's only for an hour, you can mingle and keep better tabs on Malfoy while I sneak around the house and make sure that no one is sneaking around the corridors. When the clock strikes ten just excuse yourself with a headache and come up to my room and change back. Then we can sneak down to see Remus with me excused from dinner and knowing the halls are clear.”

“Alright, but here I want you to dress in this.” Tonks held up a simple linen dress in a light blue. “That way you won't be recognized in the halls. They will think you are a servant. Just wash off your face paints and let your hair down and comb it out.”

When Hermione was changed and washed and combed, she no longer looked like a china doll of a Lady. Her brown eyes sparkled and her hair fell in soft curls and waves halfway down her back. She was just Hermione and she loved it. No one would think she was nobility; for once she could be a normal person.

Tonks and Hermione went their separate ways in the hall; one as lady of the court to an evening of dancing and fine food, the other as a mere servant in search of adventure.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Remus Lupin and Sirius Black waked into the large party at the Govoner's mansion and gave the names of Sir William Bloom and Mr. Jack Depp.

No one stared or took notice since they were dressed in such finery, not one thought those gentlemen could ever be a pirate. Besides, only the Lord Granger, the Captain Auror and a few guards knew about their capture earlier and could even recognize them after all these years. Lupin and Sirius avoided all of their eyes.

“Alright Harry?” Lupin whispered to Sirius.

“Never better Ron, now lets make our way through this crowd to those doors. They have to lead to the rest of the house where we can find the necklace.”

Ron as Lupin nodded in agreement and the two made their way through the crowd stopping every now and then for polite conversation with the other guests.

Harry took notice of the brown haired witch standing next to the Governor. He only got a side glimpse of her, and she was surrounded by the Malfoys and another guest, but he knew it was the Lady Hermione. She was in a periwinkle dress with made-up face and hair piled on her head in braids and tight curls. She wearing stunning black pearl jewelry that forced Harry had to subdue his pirate urges to wonder how much he could get for them. Instead he occupied himself with the punch bowl and watching the guests.

Tonks stood next to `her father' as she talked to both of the Malfoy's and held them in tight conversation.

Draco finally excused himself to refill his glass of punch but headed for the double doors, and slipped though them almost undetected.

“Well well Mr. Black, I see young Malfoy really is after the same thing we are.”

“Should we follow him?” Harry smiled Sirius's pearly grin.

“Yes, but we best hurry, we don't have much longer with the potion.”

The two boys as men took off for the double doors. Also thought to be undetected.

Tonks was wondering where Draco disappeared to and started to look around the room when she saw something that made her heart stop.

“Remus! ”.

She saw Remus and Sirius head for the double doors that opened up to the living quarters of the mansion. Tonks looked at the clock, technically she had a half an hour to go until she left but she decided to cut it short and follow her pirate love.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hermione thought that her plan was going rather well so far. There were about twenty minutes to go and no sign of anything or anyone in the halls. No boogey men out to get her that night she thought.

She was just about to give up when she heard the door to the party open and Draco sneak in and head to the servant's quarters.

“What? I'm not down there and he knows it! What does he want down there…”

She followed quietly behind him, not seeing the two men come in moments later.

“Alright Ron, go down to the jail and free Sirius and Lupin, then meet me back up here with them.”

“What are you going to do?”

“Make sure Malfoy doesn't find what he's looking for.”

“Okay I'll be about ten minutes.”

Harry nodded and both went their separate ways.

Tonks as Hermione came in right after the boys and saw Lupin head towards the holding cells. She forgot she wasn't quite herself and followed him quietly waiting for the opportune moment to get his attention.

Ron as Lupin reached the jails and found only one guard attending them. After all there were only two prisoners and they were wandless.

He crept up behind the dozing guard, wand raised and muttered “Stupefy”, the guard slumped over unconscious. Ron grabbed his wand and inserted it in the lock to let out Sirius and Remus.

“Well done uhh me... which one are you?” Lupin asked.

“It's me who did you think it was going to be? Harry just had to be Sirius!” Lupin only starred at his Ron-self and Sirius giggled.

“I think it's a little creepy don't you Moony? So how long did you two fight over who'd be who?”

Ron muttered something that sounded like “Five minutes… flipped a coin, lost twice”, Lupin smiled as they made their way back up to Harry.

Harry was skulking around in the servant's quarters after Malfoy and had the distinct feeling he was not alone in the shadows but could not make out who else was there, if they were friend or foe.

Draco had not found it in this room, cursed and headed towards Harry as Sirius who hid in the darker shadows as not to be seen.

Hermione had a funny feeling about what was going on, that they weren't here for her. Tonight it was for something else.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Lucius Malfoy nervously looked at the clock, he hoped that Hermione had gone to bed and not seen Draco. The party was winding down and the guests began to leave. Lucius left as soon as he could and made his way to his own ship, `The Manor'. When he reached the harbor he sent a message with blue sparks to the Death Eaters on board to come ashore and assist with the capture of the necklace.

Tonks was still walking the halls as Hermione and was slightly tuned around; she had never been in this part of the mansion before. She headed back to Hermione's room since the hour was almost up.

Hermione sat in the shadows and took shallow quiet breaths until she was sure Draco was a ways down the corridor. Then she followed.

Harry waited until he could see her properly and thought she looked familiar, was she the girl he gave the necklace to?

No that was impossible; he gave it to Hermione the Governor's daughter, who was at the party. He had seen her. This girl was just a servant, he thought.

Draco headed to Hermione's room on a small hunch and some gossip he heard from Pansy Parkinson about Hermione having the necklace.

“Those witches talk about Potter as much as they possibly can! I don't see what's so special about him. I did love that rumor that he and Lady Granger might be secret lovers though, that one was good for a laugh. Little Miss Perfect- Lady and Pirate Potter! Yes that would be fitting of Scarhead wouldn't it? Won't those gossip mongers squeal when I marry Hermione after the Dark Lord takes over!”

Draco searched though her jewelry case while Hermione snuck in and hid behind the door while Harry crept behind her and into the closet unseen.

Tonks was heading back to Hermione's room after almost getting lost in the dungeons. She was fretting about telling her she had seen Remus and Sirius and was extremely surprised to turn on the lamp in Hermione's bedroom and find Draco Malfoy rifling though her drawers.

The two stood staring in shock at one another until two Lupins and a Sirius came though the door, and another Hermione was revealed when Sirius closed the door. Finally another Sirius jumped out of the wardrobe when the bedroom door slammed shut. All wands were drawn, and everyone was surprised to say the least.

None of them spoke for a minute as they each took in the scene. Finally Malfoy broke the silence, “What the bloody hell is going on here?”

Harry as Sirius spoke up and the potion started to wear off as he did, “That is an excellent question Malfoy. What are you doing in here? I know what you're looking for, but if you remember the story correctly I gave it to a servant girl, not the Lady of the house.”

Hermione held her breath and looked at Tonks who shrugged. Malfoy's mouth dropped open when he saw the scar coming back on Sirius's forehead and Harry's voice come out of his mouth.

“Potter! But what...”he started but was cut off by a shrieking Hermione.

“Will someone tell me why there are two Remus's, and two Sirius's in here and why, some of them are not in jail!” Tonks finally found her voice.

“It was part of the plan, get someone on the inside, make it so they couldn't possibly be in two places at once. Perfect alibi, anyone who argues it is thought to be nutters.” One of the Lupin's replied.

“Ron, is that you?” she asked.

“Yep, but uhh what… Tonks?” The potion had worn off Ron as well as Harry. Now there was only two Hermione's left until Tonks screwed up her face and popped back to herself.

Draco was starring in shock, “But then where was Lady Hermione.. I was talking...”

“I was walking the halls, waiting for something like this to happen. Tonks was keeping an eye on you and your father.” Hermione gave a smirk that Tonks returned.

“Wait, you're Lady Hermione?” Harry asked.

“Of course she is Potter, don't you recognize her?” Malfoy smiled evilly.

“Yes I am Hermione! I asked Tonks to pose as me so any one would think I was just a servant walking the halls. I guess it worked better than I though if I fooled The Great Harry Potter. Don't you remember me Mr. Potter?”

“I do now, though I don't remember you being this cheeky when you were younger, or as... umm” Harry stopped himself from saying `pretty'.

Hermione only smirked at Harry, “Well if I could fool you I guess I could fool anyone. I guess I'm as clever as every one insists.”

Lupin and Sirius chuckled and Ron smiled. Harry rolled his eyes and turned to Draco, looking like Christmas had come early.

“Well Malfoy, you have just been found with sticky fingers in the Lady Hermione's jewels, so we are obligated to make dammed sure you are arrested. Hanged if we can umm swing it? Harry retorted.

Ron shook his head and groaned quietly at Harry's pun.

“NOT UNTIL I GET THE NECKLACE!” Malfoy shouted and pointed his wand at them. Harry took a more serious stance and centered his wand on Draco.

“What necklace are you all talking about?” Tonks was confused and looked to Remus for an answer.

“Harry dropped something that Voldemort thinks is important, but it means nothing, just a family heirloom.” Lupin smiled at Tonks who got the notion and didn't move a muscle.

“Liar! Where is it, I know a servant girl has it.” He advanced on Hermione, “It's your house, where is it, I need that necklace!”

Harry took a few steps in Hermione's direction, “She doesn't know where it is, I came to get it years ago and she had never seen it. Right Hermione?” He had thought about that beforehand.

Everyone looked at Hermione and she had to fight the urge to grab the gold necklace around her neck. The chain was long and the pendant was tucked into her corset, safe and sound. She had put it on to go with her dress that evening and forgot to take it off.

“I never saw any necklace you all are on about.” She was able to hold her voice steady and even sound flippant about the whole thing, shocking herself most of all.

Harry's eyes flicked to her brown ones and to the chain around her throat and he knew she was wearing it. He took another step in her direction; he was only three feet away from her, waiting for Malfoy to try something. “Bloody hell… this is not good… keep Malfoy talking.”

“Then why are you here tonight Potter?” Malfoy snarled. Harry couldn't lie very fast but Hermione could. Call it a skill of a misspent youth, trying to please other nobles she couldn't stand.

“They heard about your plot to kidnap me at the party, that's why Tonks and I switched. We figured it would be a nasty surprise for Voldemort when he had her instead of me.” She smiled triumphantly and Harry was impressed.

Before any of them could say another word there was a huge explosion from the party room and the ground shook.

Lucius and his Death Eater friends had attacked Hogsmeade to cause confusion so they could get away with the necklace and show that Voldemort was indeed back with full force.

The force of the blast knocked them all to the ground.

Malfoy took off out the shattered window while Lupin grabbed Tonks who immediately picked up a frightened Crookshanks that had shot out from under the bed and Harry reached for Hermione.

“Back to the ship now!” Harry called out as he grabbed Hermione's hand. The group ran down the hall though the deserted party and the middle of town to the harbor. Hermione knew her father would be fine, she knew she had to get the necklace somewhere safe first. All this trouble meant it was probably very important, worth dying for.

There was a scramble when they got down to the docks a few minutes later and they were separated in the mêlée of witches and wizards. Hermione's hand was torn out of Harry's and she was swept away in the moving crowd. Everywhere people were trying to escape the attacking Death Eaters coming from a ship anchored there. Aurors poured from boats; she knew they were probably in The Order and other cam in from headquarters in town. Hermione looked around for Harry, this was the second time she had lost him at the docks.

She felt hands around her waist and a wand in her back. Next thing she knew she was in a full body bind being carried to a rowboat at the end of the dock by Draco.

He put her in the boat and covered her with a tarp, tapped the rudder and sailed out to `The Ferret' that was anchored near the mouth of the bay.

He poked his head under the tarp halfway to his ship, “You gave me a great idea Milady, I may not have the necklace but I now have the Governor's daughter to bargain with.” He laughed a cold hard laugh and Hermione was rethinking her desire for adventure.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Harry's hand had been torn from Hermione's when they were nearing his ship. He lost her in the sea of people scattering to safely. He called out to her but she did not answer him. He saw Lupin, Ron, Sirius and Tonks holding Crookshanks in a small boat waving him over, waiting to row out to the ship.

“Have you seen Hermione, Lupin?”

“No, Harry I thought she was with you.”

“She probably got grabbed by one of her guards, I'm sure she's fine Harry. We have to hurry back! We have to catch up with Malfoy!” Sirius reassured him.

Harry jumped in the boat and tapped his wand to the side. Magically they were propelled to `The Stag' and boarded. Sirius's and Lupin's ships were anchored farther out to sea, at the ready to chase down Draco.

Sirius jumped onto `The Dog” and Lupin rowed Tonks and himself to `The Moon Bayer'. Tonks put Crookshanks in the Captain's cabin and scurried back on deck to help the crew.

Back on his ship, Harry grabbed his spyglass and saw the Death Eaters running for their rowboats to head back to their ships.

“They're retreating! We need to catch the ship before it leaves her harbor.” Harry shouted to his crew. They pulled up the anchor and readied the sails. This was done in the blink of an eye because of magic. Harry sent Hedwig to `The Moon Bayer' and `The Dog' with messages for their Captains to apprehend any Death Eater ships.

Harry saw that Dumbledore's ship `The Fawkes' and several other `Order' ships were in hot pursuit of the Death Eaters already. They had docked and Order members were invading the warfs and overpowering the evil wizards, hence their retreat. Harry spied Dumbledore on board his own ship giving orders and calling for the Order members to charge. The only ships in any position to sail right away were Harry's, Sirius's and Lupin's.

Harry finally spotted the two Malfoy ships near the mouth of the harbor and set course towards them. Little did he know what cargo `The Ferret' really held.

2. She can Swashbuckle?

A/N~ Hello everyone! First of all I want to give my wonderful, fantabulous readers a big THANKS! For all the lovely reviews! They were awesome! I noticed a few people liked the names I gave Harry and Ron in disguise, William Bloom and Jack Depp. I have a confession to make…when I was writing it I kinda just stuck those in there meaning to give them something better later but never changed it! I guess you guys liked them after all!

I am updating this and “If Life Gives you Lemons…” today because I start my semester next Tuesday and will return to the college grudge. Oh goodie.

So sorry to say but from now on the updates on my stories will be a little slower, also I have run out of all my pre-written chapters. And no so much of an apology as an explanation but I'm taking three 400 level English classes and re-taking my Anatomy and Physiology class. And that A&P lab is a tough class in itself besides the lecture class. So I'll have my hand full with that and working and trying to keep my readers happy so I ask for your patience on the updates. But they will come, promise!

So my readers, enjoy and please review!

Hugs and Kisses

FuryOfMedea

On board `The Manor', the final boatloads of Death Eaters climbed aboard and they set full speed ahead for the Malfoy's private island.

Lucius looked back and saw his son's ship also begin to move at the same speed. He hoped his miserable offspring had obtained the necklace. He wrote a quick note and sent it with the eagle owl to `The Ferret', hoping he would not be disappointed.

A soon as the rowboat was hoisted up, Hermione was pulled aboard `The Ferret' and shoved into the Captain's quarters, protesting at full volume the entire time. Draco set his ship full speed ahead and saw `The Stag' moving to follow him. Draco went down to the rowing decks and commanded his house elves to row the oars faster. He preferred to use rowing house elves than depend on the wind. He wasn't smart enough to know to use magic to make wind blow in the sails. Goyle cracked the whip and the ship took on speed. Draco walked back on deck marveling in his genius plan when his family owl came into sight. The note was his father asking if he had the necklace. Since he didn't, he decided not to answer and just show his father the lady.

The Malfoy's ships finally met up with no Potter or `Order' ship in sight. Lucius tied on to his son's ship and boarded.

Draco met his father on deck looking apprehensive.

“Well Draco, hand it over.”

Draco snapped his fingers and Crabbe and Goyle brought a struggling Hermione out of his cabin. Looks of confusion washed over Lucius's face finally settling on anger.

“Where is the necklace? You little…”

“It's gone, I couldn't find it and neither could Potter! You were supposed to keep him busy by the way.”

“That's why we attacked, to keep him busy!”

“I had to stop looking because of you! So I grabbed her instead, they thought that's what we were doing anyways. Kidnapping instead of searching. The fools thought she was a servant girl, not Granger's daughter! Now we can hold her hostage until we find it!”

Lucius took a calming breath and walked towards Hermione, “Where is the necklace Lady Granger and don't lie. The Dark Lord is not a patient man and neither am I.”

“I. DON'T. KNOW.” Hermione spat. “Now tell these ruffians to unhand me! I am the Lady Hermione Granger and my father will have the Ministry ships with their Aurors after you faster than you can say Quidditch!” She still had her wand shoved into the bodice of her dress, if only she could get to it.

Lucius laughed out loud at her, “My dear Lady Hermione, that is exactly what I intend. I await the Ministry and their Aurors with baited breath!”

Lucius walked back on board his ship and launched away from `The Ferret'.

“Don't make a move until I say so Draco. Just head for Malfoy Island.” He growled at his son, “I'll deal with you when we return.”

“Yes father!” Draco replied, “Set course for Malfoy Island!” he called to the crew as he dragged Hermione down the stairs.

Hermione was thrown back into the Captain's cabin, screaming at her captors until Draco knocked her out with a red jet of sparks.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Harry watched the sun rise as the Malfoys' ships sped out of sight.

“Harry there's no way for us to catch up to them.” Fred Weasley called out from the crow's nest. “They have to be going thirty maybe forty knots and they are at least five leagues ahead!”

Ron at the helm asked, “What do you want us to do Harry?”

Harry stood and thought for a moment. He knew they would be heading to their manor on their private island; it would be easy to follow them for a bit. “They don't have the necklace though, Hermione does.”

“Drop back a few knots, keep them in view but don't let them know they're being followed. We'll track them until we know more.” He turned to George who nodded and Ron changed course for the Malfoy's ships.

Harry pulled a mirror from his pocket and tapped it, “Sirius Black, Remus Lupin”, he announced to it.

Seconds later the men appeared on either side of the mirror and Harry told them his course. Lupin agreed to pass it on to Dumbledore and Sirius sent his owl to fetch a Daily Prophet to report on the results of that night.

Harry walked down to his cabin and locked the door. He was exhausted from that night; he had come so close to finding the necklace. As soon as he found out what Malfoy was up to, he would go back to Hogsmeade and get it from Lady Hermione.

Harry fell into his bed, boots still on his feet and drifted off to dreamland.

The late afternoon light in Hogsmeade revealed a busy scene. The magical community was rebuilding what had been destroyed in the fires and battle the night before. Governor Granger was in his re-built study with his advisors reading a very interesting letter an eagle owl had delivered just that morning along with a small ring.

Lord Granger,

We have your daughter, the Lady Hermione. We will not hesitate to hurt her, unless you follow our every instruction. This ring is to prove we do indeed have her. You can try to send Ministry ships and Aurors but they will not find her. I will send further instructions in a day or so. Please consider this my official resignation from the Ministry.

L.&.D Malfoy

“Kingsley?” Lord Granger addressed the Head of the Auror Guard.

“Yes my Lord?”

“Find my daughter. Kill any Death Eater that gets in your way. Especially that bastard Lucius Malfoy!”

“Yes sir, with pleasure.” Kingsley saluted and swept out of the study with a few guards and headed for the ministry ships.

Lord Granger fingered the tiny ring in his hand. It was their family crest and Hermione always wore it. A tear fell from his eye in fear for his daughter's life.

At that moment Hermione was still unconscious on Draco's ship, while the crew played exploding snap or napped in the shade. It would be at least a day until they reached Malfoy Island and they needed to pass the time.

Draco had assigned extra watches to look out for Potter or any member of “The Order”. He sat back in his chair on deck and looked out at the water. He smiled, because for the first time in his life, things were going his way.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Harry awoke to the sun streaming though his windows and he rolled over to try and block it out. It was no use.

He got up and threw on his breeches and his boots. The crew was on the deck manning the ropes or repairing any tears in the sails. Everyone was busy.

He walked down to the galley to find Ginny Weasley and Luna Lovegood planning out that evening's dinner.

“Oh hello Harry. How are you doing this afternoon?” Luna asked in her airy voice that made Ron blush for some reason. To Harry it made her oddness increase.

“Oh I'm fine thanks Luna. How are you two?” He grabbed an apple from a barrel and took a bite.

“Trying to decide what to serve for dinner, steak and kidney pie or fish?”

“The pie, defiantly the pie.” Harry smiled, being at sea they ate more fish than anything and he liked a change. He finished the apple and tossed the core out the open porthole.

“So did you hear about the news from Hogsmeade?” Ginny poured him a tankard of butterbeer and he shook his head `no' while he took a big swig.

“Well it seems that the Malfoy's kidnapped someone last night.”

Harry raised his eyebrows in question still drinking.

Ginny continued, “Yeah it was the Lady Hermione, they are going to hold her host-.” But Ginny was cut off when Harry spat out his butterbeer.

“WHAT!”

“I…I..uh Ron has the Prophet…”, she stammered.

Harry dashed out of the kitchen and hurried to find Ron. He finally found him in his small cabin reading the paper.

“Ron… paper…Lady Hermione…” he could hardly speak he was breathing so hard.

“Oh so Ginny told you, yeah bad luck isn't it? I like her, smashing girl, she can really tell a lie...”

Harry snatched the paper from Ron's hand despite his protest ( “Oi! A please is appreciated you know!”) and read that Hermione had been kidnapped and was being held on a Malfoy ship. Her father awaiting demands for her life.

“Ron we have to go after her!”

“Harry, look mate it's not our problem. You need to control this helping people thing. The Ministry will be on his tail by now. Consider him half caught.”

Harry was trying to string two words together but all that could run though his mind was “Bloody hell…bloody hell…”

Ron took no notice of his dilemma as he continued, “And she is the Governor's daughter, we would probably get arrested trying to save her, we are wanted men after all..”

“RON!”

“What? What did I say? It's not our business…”

“SHE IS WEARING THE NECKLACE, I SAW IT! AND SHE IS ON MALFOY'S SHIP!!!!”

Ron turned pale, “Oh bloody hell...” then took off to get the crew in motion, mumbling something about “brainy birds” and “trouble”.

When Harry reached the deck Ron was yelling orders to get the ship at full speed after Draco Malfoy. Harry sent an owl to Sirius and Lupin to tell them where they were going.

Ron stopped yelling for a minute to take a breather. Harry clapped him on the shoulder, “Thanks Ron.”

“Any…time…Harry.” He wheezed.

The mirror in Harry's pocket started jingling and it was Sirius on the other end.

“Harry what's going on? Why are you going after Lady Granger?”

Harry whispered into the mirror, “Sirius, she is wearing the necklace, she had been all night. I saw it.”

“You mean when you said...” Sirius went pale to match Ron.

“Yes I was bluffing and so was she. I asked her to keep it safe for me the day I `lost' it. No one knew where it was but me. Now Malfoy has her and the necklace but he doesn't know it. We can use that to our advantage. Just make it look like we want to steal his hostage. You know take away his thunder.”

“Right Harry. I'll pass it on to Remus.” He disappeared from the mirror.

The sun began to set as Fred announced they were coming up on `The Ferret'.

“Do you see who is on deck?”

“Aye captain, I see Draco, most of his crew and I see the Lady Granger”

“What's the state of the crew? Alert?”

“No sleeping most of them, the gits, Hermione is tied to a chair next to Draco, and she does not look happy!”

Harry gathered his crew and glanced to the east, `The Dog' and `The Moon Bayer' were only minutes away. He would need the backup.

“Alright this is going to take some finesse and must be pulled off without a hitch, understood?”

“Right captain!”

“Very well, Ron when I give the signal I want you to put a freezing charm on Malfoy's helm and then the rudder. Then jump onboard his ship if it looks like I need some extra help. Luna and Ginny, freeze the surrounding waves to make the ship come to a stop. Fred and George I need you to keep a look out for the Ministry and other Death Eaters. Dean and Seamus I need you to help hoist me into the rigging and hold me. Neville, You're in charge of the helm. The rest of you are to keep this ship sailing at full speed. I will be recruiting from Sirius's ship to aid in the actual capture of the hostage.”

“Yes captain,” the crew replied.

Sirius and Remus's ships caught up and ten crewmembers swung on board from each ship. Lupin, Sirius and Tonks holding Crookshanks also swung on board. She had changed out of the dinner dress into more suitable attire of a brown skirt and white tunic and brown- knee-high boots. Tonks figured that a rescued Hermione would find comfort in her large cat who ran below deck the moment she let him go. Harry greeted them and Sirius gave a sparked signal and `The Dog' dropped back just behind `The Stag', still keeping pace.

Harry briefed them on the plan and how they were to fend off Death Eaters should any come aboard or try to attack Harry during the capture. That's what Harry was calling it, a capture. Just one pirate crew taking something from another. But what that something was wearing was the important part and the secret one.

“Ferret ho!” Fred called out from the nest and George gave some detailed bearings.

The crew got into position on the ship. Harry wrapped himself in some rope to which Dean and Seamus were holding the other end. Ron, Luna and Ginny took their positions and aimed their wands at the ship.

`The Stag' gained in speed and when it was only meters from Malfoy's Harry signaled for Ron, Ginny and Luna to cast their charms on the boat and water. `The Ferret' lurched in place in the frozen water; it's crew frantically running around on board trying to get to their feet. Harry had his wand drawn and muttered `saberus', his silver beam shot out of his wand.

“Now!” He called and Neville moved `The Stag' into position along `The Ferret' and grappled on. Pirates boarded `The Ferret' as its crew tried to fight them off to buy time for the capture. Harry swung onboard the ship, slicing Hermione's ropes and fighting off Crabbe as Hermione tied herself on.

Malfoy was fighting with Ron, and still trying to give orders to his unprepared crew. He saw Potter cut Hermione's ropes and the lady tying herself onto the pirate.

“Got it!” Hermione yelled over the din of the fight.

“Seamus, Dean pull now!” Harry called to them as he grabbed a hold of Hermione and dove back for this ship.

Seamus and Dean pulled Harry and Hermione up into the air as their fellow crew members swung back onto `The Stag' and Neville steered it the opposite way at full speed, leaving Malfoy stuck in the ice that Ginny and Luna kept re-freezing until they had some distance between them.

Harry heard Draco scream out his name in anger (“Damn you Potter!”) as they sailed away and he untangled Hermione from the ropes.

The crew cheered at their victory as they set back to work or swung back onto other ships. With farewells to Harry, Sirius, Tonks and Remus returned to their own ships and they all set course for Grimmauld Isle. `The Moon Bayer' set off for the island the moment Lady Granger was tucked away and could be seen sailing into the sunset, `The Dog' right behind it.

Harry directed Hermione into his cabin and locked the door behind him.

He finally got to look at her neck and saw that the necklace was gone, his heart dropped, had it all been for nothing?

Hermione saw his saddened face staring at her throat and sighed. She turned her back to him and reached inside her corset to pull out the necklace from it's second hiding place. She turned to face him and held it up. Harry reached for it but she grabbed it back clutching it to her stomach.

“Hermione, please… it was my mother's…” Harry put on an even sadder face than before but Hermione was not having any of it.

“Oh no Mr. Potter, I am not falling for that face, not in this century anyway.”

“Give it to me Miss Granger.” Harry replied though clenched teeth, he was sick of chasing after the necklace and was feeling regrets about saving Hermione. She was proving to be troublesome by now.

“Lady Granger. Not until you tell me what is so special about it.”

“That's no concern of yours.” Harry grabbed for it again and she stepped out of his reach.

“Well considering you put my life in danger, twice, I never volunteered mind you. I think I deserve to know. Especially after you gave me the `it's just a family heirloom' spiel but that little charade proves it to be otherwise.”

“Look I just saved your life so if you don't mind, I'm taking back what's mine.” Harry ran a hand though his hair; making it even messier, this fighting was getting tiring.

“No I don't think so. You never came back for it, that's abandonment therefore it's mine now. Possession is nine tenths of the law you know.”

“Give it back to me, now!”

“No. Forget it. You can just take me back to Hogsmeade where I belong and then you can go and do whatever pirate things you like.” Hermione crossed her arms and tapped her foot. She had never pictured this Harry Potter as being selfish or demanding. Or insufferable for that matter.

“Who said I was going to take you home in the first place love?” Harry smirked; yes having a captive could be a good thing, mostly when she has an object you need.

Hermione's mouth dropped open in horror, “How dare you address me like...like a common whore! And where do you get off deciding where I'm going?” Harry only smiled wider and Hermione became very flustered as it dawned on her, “Are you telling me that you actually are going to hold me captive on this…this excuse for a ship.” Hermione narrowed her eyes at him. Harry just relaxed against a wooden beam, arms crossed, looking very pleased with himself.

“Yep, that's right. You're my ticket anywhere Milady and I'm not letting you or that necklace out of my sight.”

Hermione wanted to slap him… needed to slap him. She walked up to him, raised her free hand but before she could bring it down, he caught it looking her straight in the eye. She was shocked and angry but at the same time confused. Why was he acting like this?

“How dare you, you insufferable low life…”

Harry clapped his hand over her mouth to quiet her, spun her around and pinned her down in between him and the beam in the room.

“Do you ever stop talking?” This only gave a higher decibel level to the mumbling behind his hand as she struggled to get out of his grasp.

“Look I am going to give you two choices and I will tell them to you if you promise to keep quiet for two minutes. Alright?” Harry was still smiling; he was enjoying this far too much.

Hermione just rolled her eyes in response but did stop talking as he released her mouth. Harry continued, “ First, if you are not going to cooperate and behave yourself then I have no choice to put you down in the hold in shackles and keep you there for the rest of the voyage like any other captive.”

“How dare you…”

“Ah ah ah, you promised..” Harry smiled and Hermione stopped talking but gave him a death glare that slightly unnerved him.

“S-s-second choice. As you can see we have a large crew here of about thirty men, and only two women to do the cooking and the laundry and anything else Ginny and Luna do. You can help them with their chores and in return you will be treated just as they are, get to stay in their room, sleep in a decent bed and not be chained up.”

Hermione stared at him open mouthed in shock, cook, did he say cook? She couldn't cook that well and she had never cleaned or done laundry.

“So what'll it be, shackles or laundry?” Harry smiled, he already knew her answer but it was fun to goad her.

“Fine I'll help Ginny and Luna.” she replied though clenched teeth.

“That's what I thought you'd say. Well then, right this way..” He opened the door and gestured out into the small hall. They walked a few doors down to the third on the right. Harry knocked and Ginny answered.

“What can I do for you Harry?”

“I told you to call me..” Harry started.

“Captain, yes yes we know. Now what did you want?”

Harry turned and indicated to Hermione, “Lady Granger will be helping Luna and yourself with your duties for a while.”

“Oh that's great!” Ginny pulled Hermione in before Harry could say another word, he only heard a ,“Thanks Harry”, called from inside the door.

Hermione let her eyes adjust to the brighter light in the girl's room than in the Captain's cabin. It was a slightly smaller than Harry's room, but with four soft looking bunks and a table with chairs near the windows.

“Hi I'm Ginny Weasley and this is Luna Lovegood.”

“I'm Hermione Granger…”

“Oh yes we know lots about you. Tonks would write to Remus about her pupil and how wonderful she was.” Luna replied.

“Oh uhh I ahh, Lovegood, do you run the ..”

“Quibbler? Yes Daddy runs it from Grimmauld Isle, that's where were headed. You read it?”

“Yes, I hate the rubbish the Prophet prints.”

“You believe everything in the Quibbler?” Ginny asked eyebrows raised, the magazine did have some questionable articles.

“Uh…mmm… well most of it,” she met Ginny's eye and the red head winked at her. Hermione smiled.

“So let me guess, you're our captive right?” Ginny flopped on a bed and indicated Hermione to do the same.

“How'd you guess?”

Luna giggled, “Oh we heard the fight you two had, I think the whole ship heard it too. I've never seen anyone yell at the Captain like that before. It was funny.”

Hermione gulped, “Never ever?”

“Oh don't worry Hermione, he's just a big push over. He just puts on that tough act.” Ginny smiled at her and Luna nodded.

“Look I have to be honest, I don't know how much I can help you two. I haven't exactly led a hard life…'

Ginny cut in, “Can you use a wand to do simple house hold spells?”

“Uhh yes I can.”

“Well then that's it, just a few spells. Even the cooking, I have my mother's recipe books. And if you're half as good as Tonks claims, then you should have no problems.”

Hermione smiled, it was nice to meet two girls that were normal. Nice without a reason, that was a rare thing. Maybe this trip wouldn't be so bad after all.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

On Malfoy Island, Draco was being torn apart by his father for letting first the necklace go and then their only hope at getting it.

“We have no leverage now Draco, nothing! You leave me nothing to present to the Dark Lord. Now what do you suppose we do since you like to change plans!” Lucius snarled.

“I don't know father, how was I supposed to know Potter was going to come along and grab her for his own uses? The necklace is gone father, Potter doesn't know where it is either.” Draco yelled back and walked over to the window of the manor. The moon was full and made a white shine on the water.

“Yes so you keep reminding me, but I know you Draco, I see there is something you're hiding from me. Tell me.”

“It's nothing just a rumor. Idle gossip from witches.”

“Draco…”

“Uh alright! I heard from Pansy that Lady Granger might have had the necklace.”

“But when you searched her you didn't find it?” His father inquired.

Draco squirmed, search her, when was he supposed to do that? He and his crew were very busy. Yes that's it busy doing umm other ship things.

“I uhh well I never exactly..”

“You never searched her!”

“No I was busy getting away from the trouble you started! I didn't have time to!”

“Always blaming others for your own shortcomings Draco. I will hear no more of this. You are to stay on the isle until I tell you otherwise.”

“But Father…”

“Enough!” Lucius walked to the fireplace and flooed to see Severus Snape for some damage control.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It took a few days but Hermione finally got her balance on the ship and her stomach settled down. It had been years since she was on a ship for any length of time.

It seemed that her two weeks on `The Stag' had flown by because of her fast bonding with Ginny and Luna. The crew had taken her on as one of them and she was even applying some of her sailing knowledge from Madam Tonks.

She found that she enjoyed doing most of the work and it wasn't all that difficult. The cooking was still a learning experience but she was always up to a challenge. And if the chores didn't provide it then Harry certainly did.

Hermione had still refused to give Harry the necklace and kept it hidden in her bodice during the day and wore it when she slept. It was turning into a game for the two of them, even the arguments.

Ginny and Luna only snickered when Hermione and Harry got into a discussion about something, anything that always lead to a fight about her giving back the necklace.

Hermione and Ginny were magically peeling potatoes one afternoon when Luna came running in.

“Grimmauld Isle is in view, Ronald says we should be there within the next day or so!”

“Yes well anything Ronald says must be exciting, right Luna” Hermione teased. It was obvious that the blond was taken with the lanky first mate. She and Ginny had several conversations about it as well; Luna just sucked in her lips and got very quiet.

The other two started giggling as Luna walked into the meat storage and pulled out a large rump roast for dinner. Hermione and Ginny left the potatoes peelings themselves as they attacked her by tickling and were not brought out of their laughter until they heard someone clearing their throat.

They looked up and saw Harry on the stairs looking at the three girls as if they were from another planet.

“I uh have an announcement to make about Grimmauld Isle. I have decided as Captian,” he glared at Ginny, “That we need to make a stop first at Dufftown. I need to see some people about a certain matter and Seamus needs to sell some rum. We will make any repairs and stock up on supplies when we get there.”

The three girls nodded their heads in understanding.

“Oh and I need to speak to Lady Granger for a moment. And then uh you two need to get her some proper clothes for the village.”

Ginny and Luna shared smirks and Hermione glared at them, “I'll be there in minute Captain Potter.” She pursed her lips.

Harry walked back up to his cabin and Ginny burst out laughing. “Hermione the only woman I have ever seen make a face like that is Minerva McGonagall.”

`Who?” Hermione asked.

“She is Albus Dumbledore's second in command,” she brought her voice down to a whisper, “And by a rumor, she's his girlfriend or should I say his `wench'. Since he is a pirate after all.” Luna replied, as Ginny was laughing to hard.

“Uh okay. Can you ladies finish up dinner without me?”

Ginny could finally talk again, ”Go.. go we'll be fine.”

She was about to walk out when she turned back. “Oh and what's that about my clothes and Dufftown?”

“It'll take a while to explain, just ask Harry whom you're being escorted by.” Luna told her.

“Ummm alright.” Escorted but why… oh Dufftown, scruffy place, lots of rum running, pirates and prostitutes galore. That should be interesting.

Hermione squared her shoulders as she knocked on the door to Harry's cabin.

“Come in Lady Granger.”

“You wanted to speak with me Captain Potter.” She replied sarcastically.

“Do you always have to try to make me angry? Or does that ability just come naturally to you?”

“I'll be a lady and ignore that question.”

“Look this little game has been fun but I really do need the necklace before we go into Dufftown. It will answer lots of questions before I even get there.” Harry sat down at his desk, making some calculations on an interesting map. Objects kept moving on it.

“What's that?”

“This?” he pointed to the map and Hermione nodded.

“My father and his friends made it. It shows the positions of moving islands in the ocean and any ship you put into the map. It helps me find Grimmauld Isle but I can't find Voldemort since he didn't put his ship in the map.”

“Pity, then it would have been so easy.” Hermione graced him with a rare smile and he knew she was taking the mickey out of him.

Harry sighed and sat back in his chair, “What can I do to get you to hand over my…” Hermione cleared her throat, he continued, “I mean our necklace?”

The `our' part had been established in an argument previous.

“Just tell me what it does, why was it worth a life, my life to be exact?”

“It's complicated Hermione.”

“Try me.”

“Alright I'll tell, if you promise to actually give me the necklace by the time we reach Dufftown.”

“You have a deal Captain Potter.”

They sat and stared at each other for a moment, making sure they were both in earnest.

Harry got up and walked over to where she was standing.

“Well it goes like this, before I was born there was a prophecy made about me to Dumbledore by a wonky Seer, Trelawney was her name I think. Well in this prophesy it says how I am going to defeat Voldemort, it tells me how to do it as in a weapon or technique of some sort. Well my mum kept it around her neck for the `right time' she always told me. She gave it to me that day before she went off to help my Dad. Then I gave it to you in case a Death Eater caught me after I ran off. Then they wouldn't ever hear it.”

“So it tells you how to destroy Voldemort?” Hermione leaned on the beam next to him

“Essentially yes, I brake the glass ball and listen to the prophecy and then use it to ask questions in Dufftown.” Hermione nodded her head.

“Who else knows?”

“Well besides you, Dumbledore, Ron, Remus and Sirius. That's it, well a select few Death Eaters and Voldemort of course. I doubt Voldemort would want his weakness to be known by the world.”

“So that's it? That's the big secret?”

“What do you mean that's it! That's a lot of important information I'll have you know and its privileged!”

“And you couldn't have told me that from the beginning? It was easy Harry!”

“You were on a need to know basis and you didn't need to know!” Harry was pacing the cabin now, why did she always get him riled up like this?

“Oh alright fine, just because I kept it safe for you, with my life, I didn't need to know! Yes that makes perfect sense.” Hermione yelled back.

In the kitchen Ginny, Luna ,Neville and Ron stopped cooking or eating (as the latter was doing) when they heard the loud voices.

“Here they go again, this is the second time today.” Ginny sighed.

“I wonder if they know that isn't healthy to hold back emotions like that?” Neville continued to separate peas the muggle way while the three starred at him. “What?”

“They are getting out aggressions, there is nothing pent up about that mate!” Ron replied as he crunched on a fried potato.

“No I meant about their feelings for one another. It's obvious that they like each other but argue because they enjoy it. Notice they argue only over the necklace and nothing else. It's important and they know that and their arguments express that. That's all.”

The three stared at Neville for a moment in surprise, he was not known for his eloquence or insight of the soul.

Luna blinked at Neville, “You might be right about that. But they still need to have better auras if they want to defeat Voldemort.”

“Err right you are Luna,” Ron sighed and picked up another chip as they went back to listening to the heated discussion.

“Yes you did guard it and I will admit I didn't give you a choice in this. I was ten, I didn't exactly have all the wisdom of the world to support me.” Harry shot back.

Hermione went to yell but sat in a chair exhausted, “This is stupid. All we ever do is go in circles about this. Here take it.” She took off the necklace and handed it over to a surprised Harry.

“Umm alright thanks… I uhh wow that was easy...” He just cradled the necklace as if it were a baby, Hermione smiled a little.

“Well I need to finish making dinner, oh and Harry?” her voice was tight but began to loosen as she spoke.

“Yes Hermione?”

“Umm who is `escorting' me to Dufftown?” He gave her a surprised look, “Luna and Ginny wanted to know. Something about having to do with my clothes.”

“Oh yes, umm well me then. I'll be escorting you.”

“Are you asking questions about the … you know?” she indicated the pendant that was glowing again.

“Possibly.”

“And I get to hear them? As in be involved?”

“Possibly, it depends on certain factors.” Harry shuffled his feet, why was his face feeling warm?

“Oh umm alright. I'll see you at dinner then.”

Hermione walked back to the kitchen and tried to push open the door but something was blocking it, she pushed harder and cries of pain could be heard from inside. The four friends had been listening at the door since they knew they would be caught in the hall.

Hermione laughed when they were rubbing their heads and ears, “What on earth were you listening for?”

“Nothing.” Ginny and Luna replied in unison.

Ron saw this as a good time for he and Neville to make a quick exit, so making up an excuse about checking a line he pulled Neville out of the kitchen.

“Oh and Harry said he would be taking me to Dufftown Luna.”

Luna giggled and glanced at Ginny who winked.

Hermione sighed and turned back to shucking peas, “Oh and might I request that you two do not make me look to much like a..a..slag?” She giggled at the word.

Ginny and Luna looked shocked, “How did you..” mouths agape.

She sighed again, did they think she knew nothing? “Ginny I have heard stories you know!” Hermione threw a potato slice at Ginny who promptly closed her mouth and with that they finished making dinner in silence.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The ship was dark and the floorboards creaked with the movement of the waves. Voldemort sat in a chair in front of a fire as Lucius begged for mercy.

Snape had written to Voldemort upon his arrival and Lucius was sent to see the Dark Lord immediately.

“Quiet Lucius, I do not want to hear of your problems. The necklace has escaped our grasp and so has the hostage. Our leverage as you put it.”

“Now what are we to do my lord?” He quivered.

“Have your son follow Potter and his allies. Do not let them out of your sight. They will be looking for the necklace or looking because of what the prophecy tells. I want you to keep an eye on Dumbledore since you have stupidly renounced your loyalty to the Ministry. If he disappears, then assist your son in following Potter and his precious Marauders. Either way we must keep close tabs on him. I trust that this will not prove to be too difficult for you?”

“N-no my lord. It will be done.” Lucius bowed and walked out of the room headed back to `The Manor'.

“Wormtail!” Voldemort called to the darkness.

“Yes my liege?” A small and rat like man, the same one who had sold out the Potters approached and bowed in front of his beckoner.

“Stow away onto Lucius's ship as a rat, and follow young Malfoy. Report to me where he goes. If you can sneak on Potter's ship, all the better.”

“Yes m-my lord.” Peter turned to leave but was called back, “Oh and Wormtail?”

“Yes my lord?”

“Do try and keep this to yourself, I don't need all my followers to know I don't trust them.”

“Yes, yes your lordship.”

Peter scampered off into the dark after Lucius who did not even notice the three-toed rat slip onto his ship.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Ginny I can't wear this! It's too…”

“Slaggish...” Ginny offered.

“Authentic...” Luna added.

The three girls had spent the next morning in their cabin helping Hermione pick out some clothes for Dufftown. It was not a place a lady would visit normally, instead it was full of pirates and shady dealings. The women were not the most modest creatures in the world and neither was their attire. So Hermione's blue dress was not going to cut it since the hem went to the floor and it covered her chest.

Hermione stood in front of the full mirror in her latest ensemble and was horribly shy, trying to move the articles up or down to cover the skin showing.

“No it's just not me! I just… you can see everything!”

“Oh Hermione you can hardly see a thing! Trust me on this one; we have been saving this outfit. We weren't sure for what though…” Luna smirked and Ginny giggled.

Hermione stood trying to pull down the skirt and cover her shoulders.

Ginny and Luna had done an excellent job of finding an outfit that would blend in at Dufftown.

It started with a fitted white linen tunic with long sleeves and a neckline that dropped just slightly off both shoulders. The hem of the top stopped right at her hips where a black cotton skirt started, it had two swishy layers and the second layer reached about mid thigh. Then Ginny had insisted that she wear some knee high black boots that laced all the way up. The heels were not very high so walking was still easy. As an after thought Luna threw a large black belt around her waist with a silver buckle.

It was totally cliché and completely perfect.

“But isn't this outfit a little… umm cliché? I mean in every pirate story the wenches are dressed like this. Where are the fishnet stockings?”

“Oh the stockings are out of season!” Ginny replied as she straightened out her own layered, short brown skirt and light blue peasant top.

“Honestly?” Hermione was shocked.

“Yes for some reason the fashion rage in Dufftown resembles something like this, well for the Captain's wench's anyways.” Ginny smiled.

“What's the difference between them and any other wench?”

“Well you have to understand that a captain is seen by his reputation. Harry cuts no slack and gives no mercy, or he acts like he does, so he is greatly respected by all pirates. They don't want to have a reason to get in his way. And how you look reflects that.” Luna explained as she straightened out her straight short tan skirt and fluffed her beige top, much like Hermione's.

Hermione groaned and put her face in her hands, “Ugh that is just like at home! I hate it it's ridiculous!”

“Yes but I can guarantee you that almost every wench will be jealous.” Luna sang out.

“Why?” Hermione was fidgeting with her top again, trying to keep her shoulders covered, to no avail.

“Oh well most of the women in Dufftown have been after Harry since he came of age. Can't say I blame them though…” Ginny mused.

Hermione shot both girls dirty looks and they giggled.

“I wonder what they are doing up on deck today?”

“Why? Shouldn't they be working, I mean Harry is anal about that...”

“Yes but there is no wind, and Harry thinks the crew deserves a short break so he's not making any magically and everything on board is done. Oh maybe they'll be fencing!” Luna squealed.

“Oh yes perhaps. Let's go.” Ginny grabbed Hermione and the three girls headed up the stairs.

On deck the crew had paired off and were sword fighting with one another. Silver beams flashed and everywhere and you could hear the `clanging' noise of the metal-like beams contacting. Harry walked around and corrected his crewmen on foot placement or technique. Leave it to Captain Potter to turn fun into some sort of training exercise.

The men looked up at the entrance of the ladies and whistles and catcalls abounded. The three of them were dressed in appropriate wench attire of revealing skirts and shoulder showing tops with knee high boots. Harry called for order and invited the ladies to join in the `training'. Ron, big surprise there, immediately swooped down on Luna and Dean Thomas asked Ginny to pair off with him. That was a surprise. Hermione noticed Neville looked slightly put out that Ginny had another partner but was distracted when Harry stepped in front of her.

“So Tonks tells me she taught you the basics of sword play?”

Basics? Yes you if you can call the basics swashbuckling your butt off!

Hermione decided to go ahead and let Harry think along those lines, she didn't want to be rude and try to correct him.

“Oh yes she did. She wanted me to know how to actually use my wand for spells other than doing the dishes.” She smiled

“Care to have a lesson from a real live pirate?”

“Mmm that sounds very nice Captain Potter. Ready when you are.”

Both pulled out their wands and muttered the spell. Two silver beams shot from the ends. The faces one another and bowed, “Unguard!,” Harry lunged and Hermione blocked his attack and took the opportunity to counter with her own. It caught Harry slightly off guard and was forced to make a rash block and side step her thrust.

Hermione smiled at him and for the next few minutes they continued to fence slowly, then picking up the pace and moving around the deck. Whenever one attacked the other countered and gave a lunging or thrust motion. The crew soon caught sight of the intense swordplay and stepped to the sides of the deck, leaving Harry and Hermione the only pair with swords clashing.

The movements became much more intricate and Harry almost tripped, twice on his feet. Hermione's game was unmatched with his, they flew around the deck spinning, sloping, lunging and slashing blades so fast they became silver blurs.

Ron stood with his mouth hanging open; Harry actually had to concentrate on what he was doing, against a woman! Luna closed his mouth with her hand and patted his shoulder as Ginny giggled at her brother's antics.

Dean leaned over to Seamus, “What are they teaching those classy birds in finishing school these days eh? Advanced pirate skills?” Seamus snickered in response.

Hermione was in a trace, she was only focused on Harry's next move and Harry was concentrated on her next move. Harry had never met a woman that could match his sword skills and keep it up for this long before. She made him think about his actions, as if she could read him. And that made him nervous.

Hermione was wondering how much longer she could keep this up when she remembered a spinning thrust move guaranteed to disarm any opponent and send their sword flying, she bounced, turned and with a flick from her wand, Harry's `sword' flew up into the air and she caught it with her left hand. She muttered `sheathis' and both beams retracted into the wands. The crew was applauding madly and Harry's face was priceless. It was utter shock mixed anger and awe.

“I was just out fenced by a..a.. woman! A Lady at that, not even a pirate wench! How is this possible…”

Hermione gave him a sly smile and tossed his wand back to him that he caught, but required two hands.

“Thank you for the lesson Captain, it was most informative.” She walked back towards the stairs and headed down to the girls' cabin.

“Basics my wand, I just beat you Mr. Potter, what do you have to say about that?”

Ginny and Luna thundered into the room seconds later squealing and shrieking with delight.

“That was so amazing, I have never seen someone beat Harry before!” Ginny breathed hard from running.

“Yes that was incredible, where did you really learn it from?” Luna inquired.

“Oh Tonks really did teach me, she just made me practice three days a week for the whole day since I was thirteen.”

“Will you teach us that last move?” They asked in unison snickering.

“Defiantly! You two will be able to out fence any man on this ship in a few weeks!” Hermione shrieked and they all fell down laughing.

The result of the fencing was also a topic of discussion from the men, who were forced to whisper least they suffer Captain Potter's wrath.

Harry was very disturbed by the fact that he was beaten by a woman of high birth who was supposed to have no sword skills whatsoever. He sat thinking in his cabin; he had given up trying to plot out a course for anywhere over an hour ago.

Why did this woman vex him so? And why did she have such an effect on him, it was always the other way around. He was always the smooth one and the women were stumbling over him. She seemed to be in complete control of their situations. Thinking back, she was the same when he met her, cool and collected and in control of herself.

Harry banged his fists on his oak desk so hard it shook the lantern hanging from the ceiling.

He heard a knock at his door, ”Harry mate are you all right, can I come in?”

“It's open Ron, make yourself comfortable.”

Ron walked in a flopped in a chair across from his friend, “So… that was an interesting… uh display up on deck. Don't you think?”

Harry only grunted in reply and opened two bottles of butterbeer and slid one to his friend.

“Thanks.”

“Welcome.”

They sat in silence as they drank until Harry had to ask his best friend that burning question, the one that had been bothering him since Hermione came aboard.

“Do you think that Lady Granger… Hermione is different in any way?”

“Different?” Ron looked confused.

“Special, extraordinary. Something to explain why we can be having a nice conversation but she still drives me nutters?”

“Ah I see what you mean mate.” Realization dawned on Ron, “He fancies her. Go figure it would take a Lady to tame the wildest of pirates.”

“You fancy her don't you Harry?” Harry spat out his butterbeer at this question.

“What! That's ridiculous!”

“No it's not. Think about it. You always get riled up when she does something she knows annoys you. She is just pushing your buttons, and you react to it instead of brushing it off or threatening to kill her. And you can't take your eyes off of her when she's around.”

“Oh come on Ron…”

“No! Remember when she was tying that line and you were so fixated on her that you walked into that bucket of soapsuds? Or how about the time you were having dinner and she was talking to you, you kept missing your plate and stabbing the table with the fork. Or how about just last week...”

“Alright Ron. I get the idea. Yes I'll admit she… distracts me. But it is only because she is a beautiful woman, what man wouldn't have that reaction?”

Ron sighed, “Harry look if you are just trying to convince yourself that you don't fancy her because you know that it probably won't work out, you holding her captive and all, then fine. Go ahead, I can't blame you for trying to protect yourself there I mean her father would love that right.”

Harry's face was still expressionless so Ron continued, “But if it is just because you are being stubborn and are afraid to even see what life might be like with her, because of this tragic hero thing you've got going. Well that is just you being thick mate.”

“I am not being thick about this! She just knows how to push my limits is all.”

“Uh huh. Look Harry I have seen you two together and when you don't argue about that damn necklace you work well together. You and Hermione are good together. So drop this rouge pirate thing and sweep her off her feet. Don't forget, you do have a title so it could work…your Grace! Count Potter of Godric's Hollow, yeah some count you are plundering and pirating.”

“Yeah thanks Baron von Weasley I'll keep that in mind.”

Ron got up and banished his empty bottle as he walked out.

“Just don't let the best thing that could happen to you walk out without seeing what it could be first. See if it might work, that's all I'm telling you mate.”

Harry banged his head on his desk a few times and sighed, “Why did I have to fall for her?” “Nice going Potter, now you've admitted it. Great, just bloody brilliant.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Draco Malfoy and his crew were sailing just a few leagues behind Potter.

“Zabini, it looks as if they are headed for Dufftown, set our course in that direction.”

“Aye captain!”

“Now what are you going to Dufftown for Potter. Oh I see, making a side trip to Godric's Hollow are we? Going to take another look for the necklace, or decode its secrets.”

`The Ferret' picked up speed as the winds picked up in the night. Malfoy was going to follow Harry to Dufftown and possibly Godric's Hollow, the place of his family home. It was only an hour's ride from Dufftown, and it touched one side of the coast. If Harry was going there he was looking for answers either way.

3. A Dinner Party for Pirates?

A/N~ Hello wonderful readers! Again thanks for all the glowing reviews! I love, love, love them!

So here's the next little chappie for this lovely little fic. There's only going to be a few more chapters left for this little story (sniffle) but I'll make them as spectacular as I can. If there's one thing I don't like it's an awesome story with a sucky ending. I promise that won't happen here!

Remember: Writers love readers who review, so the writers can keep writing and the readers keep reviewing what's written!

And I'm one of those writers!

Hugs and Kisses

FuryOfMedea

Harry's ship docked at Dufftown a few hours before dawn. George had been keeping him informed of a ship trailing not very far behind them.

The twins' switched watches as the sun came up. Fred was stopped by Harry before climbing into the crow's-nest.

“Fred, just keep an eye on that ship back there. I have an inkling it's a ferret, if you know what I mean.”

Fred smiled and looked mischievous, “Oh yes right you are Harry, I definitely smell a ferret about. I'll use the coin to alert you to anything unusual. You do have it?”

Harry pulled out the galleon that `The Order' used to alert one another of trouble, “Got it, just wait for my signal if anything happens.”

“Right Captain.” Fred saluted and scurried up to the nest to continue lookout duty.

The sun was hanging high in the sky when the crew disembarked for land. The men headed to a local pub, The Hogs Head and Dean and Seamus went to the back door to sell a few cases of their rum.

Ginny, Luna and Hermione were paired with a male escort for the day's venture. After all Dufftown was a rough town and any woman alone was thought to be a prostitute. But to be fair most of the women who were with a man were still though to be prostitutes by the way they dressed. The members of `The Stag' were well matched; Harry with Hermione, Luna with Ron and Harry asked if Neville would escort Ginny, much to the red-head's surprise.

The three pairs headed for the pub where Harry and Ron knocked back some firewhiskey and Neville had a few Gillywaters.

Hermione noticed scandalously clad women (much like herself but she would not admit it) hanging on pirates in the pub; one in particular kept looking at her with evil intensity and then over at Harry, then back at her.

The woman in question was very pretty with long dark hair; dark eyes and had an exotic look about her. She was next to a very handsome pirate, his long coat and hat, almost identical to Harry's, made him out to be a captain.

“Oi! Harry, looks like Chang is giving you the eye again.” Ron winked and nudged Harry in the ribs. Harry in response wrapped his arm around the waist of a very surprised Hermione and pulled her closer. She leaned into his hold and sipped her butterbeer, trying to drown the butterflies that had erupted in her stomach.

“Well she can look all she likes! At least Romhilda isn't showing her face tonight,” Harry mumbled.

Ginny snickered and Luna rolled her eyes.

“Who's Romhilda?” Neville asked, he already knew about Cho's history with Harry.

“Oh she is a wench that was after Harry, just like Cho Chang over there. She tried to slip him a love potion a few times. If they didn't support Dumbledore I'd never admit they exist.” Ron lifted his glass to the handsome captain Cho was with and the captain returned the gesture.

“Mmm now that's a pirate! Who's that man Cho's with?” Hermione asked Ginny. Harry shot her a murderous glance that she ignored.

“Oh that Cedric Diggory, captain of `The Badger', Cho's his fiancé. Isn't he handsome?” Ginny leaned over to reply.

Hermione sighed, “Mmm, a pirate like that makes me want to forget I'm a lady.” Ginny nodded and Harry and Ron scoffed, but Hermione ignored them and continued her thought, “I didn't know pirates had fiancés.”

“Well in some cases yes, if they are decent pirates and gentlemen,” Luna shot Ron a glace then continued, “Yes pirates do get married, and Cho is set for Cedric, since Harry gave her brush off that is...” she and Ginny exchanged smiles.

“Oh really Harry… do tell the story. I'm sure it's dreadfully sordid.” Hermione teased to cover up her slight pang of jealousy.

Harry's green eyes stared straight into her brown and she hid a gulp as he answered her, “Cho came on to me a few years back, she wanted to be my wench and I happened to fancy her at the time. I thought what the heck, I tried it. She was a mess, crying about Cedric all the time, they had just broken up and he was on a dangerous trip to deliver some `goods'. She kept crying all over me so I told her we were thru, go back to Diggory and that was it. She has been a little cold to me ever since, can't say I blame her. I needed a lady made of stronger stuff than she was.” Harry gave her a small smile as she tried to keep breathing normally.

“Oh. Not quite the hair raiser I though it would be.” She managed when she found her voice again.

They all laughed but Harry kept his eye lock with Hermione and she felt her insides turn to goo. No person, no man had ever looked at her like that. His eyes told her everything she had ever wanted to hear and nothing at the same time.

“No Hermione, no this is a bad idea. Get those thoughts out of your head… oh but he is so handsome and so everything…damn it!”

Hermione finally noticed she was making a spectacle of herself and Harry and then started laughing at something Ron had just said, along with everyone else, breaking the eye contact.

Harry had to clear his throat to keep his composure when she threw her head back and laughed, putting her whole person into it.

They had some dinner and talked until the sun went down and the men escorted the ladies back to the ship. Harry made some excuse about going back to talk to an old friend in the pub and it sounded debatable. Mostly since Ron and Neville only nodded in agreement, not expounding on it, as they were prone to do.

Hermione knew something was up with those three and Ginny agreed. Luna looked through the scope to see the three boys walk into a dark alley, not in the direction of The Hog's Head and the girls decided to follow them back into town.

They crept after the boys in the shadows, talking in whispers.

“Where are they going?” Hermione asked the two.

“I have no idea. Oh duck in here, Ron's looking!” Luna shrieked.

The three ducked behind a large pile of barrels whose contents smelled questionable while Ron shrugged and turned back to following Harry.

“Why are they going down here, there isn't that much in this part of town…” Ginny pondered as Hermione shrugged.

They wound their way through the city, hiding every now and then until they came to a very dark, creaking building, that the boys entered. Ron was the last to go in and looked around before he shut the door behind him.

Hermione, Ginny and Luna crept up through the dingy yard to the window and saw a light towards the back of the house.

“Should we go around to the back?” Luna asked.

“No lets try the door first and look around inside. It's probably safer than staying out here.” Ginny answered.

Hermione pulled out her wand from inside her short skirt, “Okay lets go, but no lights, and no talking.” Ginny and Luna nodded in agreement.

The door opened easily and Luna cast a silencing charm on the hinges to keep it from creaking. They walked through the house towards the light that had been coming from the kitchen. The door was closed except for a wide crack that let them see into the room.

The girls positioned themselves in a corner by the door, out of the light and watched the scene inside.

Harry, Ron and Neville sat around a table with Lupin, Sirius, Fred and George and some other men Hermione did not know.

Ginny leaned down and counted them off to her.

“The man with the beard is Albus Dumbledore and from the left it's Alastor Moody, Minerva McGonagall, Servius Snape, he's our spy with Voldemort. Then that tall one is Charlie and the other one is Bill, my oldest brothers. And next to Bill are my father and then Mr. Lovegood. But I don't know who that one in the hood is.”

Hermione squinted in the candlelight and recognized him, “That's Kingsley Shacklebolt, he's the Captain of the Auror Guard!”

“But why would a ministry official be here?” Luna asked.

“I don't know. Luna, Ginny any thoughts?”

“Nope.” They both answered.

The three were forced into silence as they watched Minerva walk out of the room and past their hiding corner. She looked around when she heard a crackling of the floor and looked in the direction of the girls, seeing nothing she headed upstairs and when her door closed the meeting started.

Dumbledore cleared his throat and began the meeting, “Well good evening gentlemen! I have good news to report, we now have what we needed to gain our advantage in this war. Harry has secured the object and we can proceed in our plans.”

The men thumped Harry on the back and offered praise to which Hermione gave a small humph outside. She was raging with anger inside at being left out of the loop at the meeting concerning the necklace she had kept safe.

“How long until we can form a plan Dumbledore?” Arthur Weasley asked.

“It should be only a short time until we can finalize everything Arthur.”

They went on to each report what they had seen going on at sea and in the villages and cities. They discussed the Death Eater's possible plans of finding what they had and how to prevent it. Which rumors to spread and how to get Voldemort off track. The meeting adjourned with the promise of meeting again in a few days at Grummauld Isle. The girls ducked back as the members left and held their breath in hopes they would not be spotted. Most of the men left the meeting but Harry, Ron Neville, Sirius, Lupin and Dumbledore stayed behind.

“Well Harry I think now is a good time for us to examine your trinket.” Dumbledore chuckled.

Harry pulled the necklace out of his pocket with a smile as he laid it on the table.

Dumbledore opened the setting and the golden orb rolled out and onto the table. Harry broke it with his wand and a misty figure rose out speaking the prophecy:

“ He shall be born as the seventh month dies to those who have defied him. He shall have power the Dark Lord knows not and with said power he shall defeatd the Dark Lord. One cannot live while the other survives, this power shall rise from the one born as the seventh month dies…”

The men around the table were all quiet as they contemplated the words as the figure disappeared.

“Sir, what is the power that he knows not?” Harry asked the bearded wizard.

“Harry what have we discussed in months past? What is the one thing, the one emotion that Voldemort cannot understand or possess?”

“Love?”

“Yes, correct Harry. Love is what protected you from him when your mother gave herself for you and love that you have shall help defeat him.”

“How?” Harry scratched his head.

“Oh could we brew up a love potion and slip it to him or dump it on him?” Neville offered.

They all looked at Neville for a moment, “Well I though it was a good..”

Harry interrupted him “No Neville it's a great idea it just that...”

“Mr. Longbottom has a very good idea however it would be better if it was some sort of spell rather than having to slip Voldemort a potion.” Dumbledore smiled at Neville who puffed out his chest slightly. Ginny had to shove her face in Hermione's back to stifle a girlish giggle.

“A spell? But Dumbledore there are no love spells strong enough to kill him are there? Lupin asked.

Dumbledore thought for a moment before answering, “Yes that is a very good point Remus. A very good point indeed. It is something that will take further research and some input from Harry.”

“Sir?”

“Harry you will need to find a way to project your love into the spell we find. It is only something you can do yourself, by yourself. I am afraid I cannot help you here.”

Ron mumbled to Neville, “Yeah but I bet Hermione can...” Neville snickered and Harry shot them a harsh look.

“Ron did you want to add something?” Harry asked, his voice strained.

Ron gulped, “Oh uh no Harry, nothing at all ha ha..” Neville bent his head to hide his smile and was kicked by Ron under the table.

Dumbledore smiled, “Ah yes well we can ask the young lady that question right now since she, Miss Weasley and Miss Lovegood are currently outside the door and have been for quite a while.” Harry Ron and Neville turned to look at the crack in the door while Lupin and Sirius tried to hide their chuckles.

Hermione, Ginny and Luna panicked when they heard Dumbledore tell the boys they were listening in. They tried to scramble to their feet and get out of the house when the kitchen door flew open to a not happy Harry, Ron and Neville.

“Hermione!” Harry hissed.

“Ginny!” Neville yelled.

“Luna!” Ron hollered.

They all stood and gulped and tried to put on the sweetest smiles possible. The boys grabbed their arms, waists and in Neville's case, hoisted Ginny over his shoulders and dragged them into the kitchen.

Lupin and Sirius were now laughing very hard along with Dumbledore when the six entered.

“Well Lady Granger we meet at last, how do you do?” Dumbledore kissed Hermione's hand and bowed.

“Oh er it's a pleasure to meet you Commodore Dumbledore, I umm apologize for interrupting your umm meeting…”

“Oh no think nothing of the sort. I should be thanking you for keeping the prophecy safe for so long. I wish more ladies would express an interest in `The Order'. Unfortunately Minerva is feeling a little under the weather tonight and could not attend as usual.”

“Hello Professor Dumbledore, how… how are you?” Ginny offered and he smiled at her.

“Oh I'm very well Miss Weasley, very well. And how are you and Miss Lovegood? So what did you think of the meeting.”

“Oh it was very interesting. I think you have the right idea about the spell, though the potion is a good concept Neville.” Ginny gave him a small smile and he returned it and puffed out a bit more if that was possible.

“Yes I agree that the spell might be better for this situation, but most of the ones in existence are weak unless Harry does what you suggest and projects the emotion.” Hermione added.

“Unless you were able to drink a potion and use that to help fuel the spell. Or if you use the tooth of a Nargle, since they haunt mistletoe, they are supposed to absorb the emotion of love.” Luna smiled proudly and Ron sighed and squeezed her hand in his, rolling his eyes to the ceiling.

“That is an interesting idea Luna. Well if any of you come up with anything more, I am more than happy to help but for now, I think I should get back to my ship. Dumbledore let me know about the next meeting, I'll clean up the manor for it. Harry I will owl you in a day or so about things. Hermione, Ginny, Luna it was lovely to see you all again” Sirius stood up and headed for the door.

“I also must get back to my ship, there are a few umm things I need to take care of. Harry let me know if you need anything alright?” Harry nodded, “Dumbledore I will see you on the Isle. Good night everyone.” Lupin turned and followed Sirius out the door, the two laughing as they walked down the street to the harbor.

“Well I think now would be a good time for me to go off to bed, Harry, you all are more than welcome to stay, all I ask is that you lock up when you leave.” Dumbledore tipped his head towards the young captain.

“No we need to be getting back to the ship.” Harry replied solemnly as he guided Hermione to the door and the others followed.

They called their good nights to Dumbledore as they walked down the alley, Ron Neville and Harry grasping the girls tightly and pushing them forward. None of them had said much since they discovered the eavesdroppers and none of them were very happy about it. Ron was trying to contain his anger but his ears were turning telltale pink, Neville's face was red and he was muttering under his breath but Harry was cold and aloof. They had agreed earlier that they did not want to include the girls because of the danger involved, Hermione especially. She would go back to her world of the ministry and any knowledge on her part posed a possible threat to `The Order' and their plans.

The six friends walked down the path in silence until they came to a fork were the path split off to the harbor, the road back to Dufftown, and the other to another town far off. Harry paused forcing Hermione to stop as well.

“Ron, Neville, you two take Luna and Ginny back to the ship. I have another stop I need to make and I need Lady Granger's assistance. Ron let the crew know we are staying here until further notice, there are other things we need to take care of before we leave.” Harry's voice was cold and detached.

“Right captain, send an owl if you have any other instructions?” Ron was equally distant.

“Yes I will. As soon as I get there I will let you know. Neville, will you send me word of the rum sale?”

“As soon as I get the report from Dean and Seamus. I'll send it along Captain.”

Neville did not sound like his jovial self.

Hermione was feeling very confused at this point. Ron, Neville and Harry were all talking about some place Harry seemed to be going. How was he going to send an owl, did he have one in his pocket? That was not possible and Hermione only felt better seeing that Ginny and Luna looked equally baffled about the conversation.

Harry nodded to Ron and Neville and they split off with strained `good nights' all around. The girls shared looks of concern and knew they were in big trouble since they were being separated and Hermione distinctly heard Neville telling Ron he was going to head down to Greater Hangleton. It was a small but upscale village outside of Dufftown where Neville's family had a house; Hermione knew the Longbottoms were on holiday in Germany. Neville had talked about checking up on their greenhouse and other matters at the estate and she heard him expressing his need for help from the red head he was dragging along.

Luna was being dragged to the ship with Ron, Ginny was headed to Greater Hangleton with Neville and Harry was trying to drag Hermione down a dark road to the unknown location. She reflected that none of the boys looked happy and Ginny and Luna were not protesting. She heard two pops and guessed that Ron and Neville side-apparated with the girls to their destinations since women were not allowed, at all.

Hermione turned her head back to Harry who was dragging her off into the dark, to who knows where. She'd had enough of his cold behavior and wanted some answers, but first she wanted to go back to the ship, right now. And she was not going to let him drag her into the dark for an out of the way apparition point.

She twisted out of his grasp and turned to walk back to the ship, but he grabbed her again and pulled her back in the other direction, not saying a word. She stepped out of his grasp again, this time she was not pleased, at all.

“What do you think you're doing?” she shouted.

“We need to go down further into the dark so no one can see us apparate and try to follow.” He replied, his voice still and calm but inside his thoughts were raging.

Harry had never been so adamant about anything in his life, Hermione had risked her life too many times. He needed to get her somewhere safe, and not let her alone for a second. Letting her waltz back to the ship in the night was a very bad idea. A Death Eater would be only too happy to kidnap her or worse. He couldn't let that happen, not now, not after all that had happened between them. He now admitted to himself that maybe she was even too dangerous for he, Captain Harry James Potter. It made him afraid and sad at the same time. The thought that he would have to give her up, that he was forced to feel this way, torn between want and need, forced to have to make her leave. Forced to have to trust her with his life. Even though he did, he still felt cheated somehow.

“No. I'm going back to the pub to have a drink.” She turned to head back down the path but Harry stepped in her way. It may not have been true but it sounded like a good idea after she said it.

“Excuse me, you're in my way.” She replied though clenched teeth.

“No, you are going the wrong way.” He was still impassive.

“ No I am not...”

“Yes you are, you are coming with me whether you like it or not Hermione.”

At this point she was done with this little game and she went to push Harry out of the way but he grabbed her wrists and dragged her back down the path into the dark, Hermione protesting with full force.

“Harry let me go this instant, how dare you force me to do anything! Where do you get off trying to tell me what to do and when, I have never been so insulted in my life! What right do you think you have to..” but she was cut off.

Harry finally couldn't take anymore of her ranting so he rounded on her,

“Where do I get off Hermione! Where do you? You come on to my ship as though you are its captain and then barge in on an Order meeting and expect me to be happy about that! When I specifically told you to stay on the ship! You have put yourself in more danger than you know and there is no way in bloody hell I am letting you out of my sight! For all I know you were followed by a Death Eater and they heard the whole meeting! You and Ginny and Luna could have compromised the whole plan and gotten yourselves killed! And now you have to be inducted into `The Order' because of what you witnessed. We all agreed as a group to not involve Ginny and Luna. It was at their families' insistence along Ron's and Neville's and mine. But then you come along and push them into it! You disobeyed orders from the Captain, you are so damn obstinate in doing what you want, not thinking about anyone else!” Harry was seething as he pushed Hermione deeper and deeper into the darkness.

“It was just as much their idea as it was mine so don't for a second think I pushed them into it or was thinking only about myself! You know full well that I wanted to help with the necklace and you snuck off without so much as a word to me about it! Ginny, Luna and I reserve the right to be involved; we want to be in `The Order'! You have no right to make that decision for us! Or Ron or Neville for that matter!” Hermione was raging as Harry was pulling her along the road, she dug her heels into the dirt to try and stop him.

At this point Hermione guessed that Ron and Neville had whisked Ginny and Luna away to have the same conversation in private. Knowing it would be easier to break down their defenses if they were separated. She was adamant about not giving in; okay she had taken some unnecessary and slightly reckless… okay very reckless risks, that night and could have gotten them killed. Or discovered or any of the above.

“Well isn't that just peachy for you. I'm happy to hear you are so loyal to the fight against Voldemort. But I can make those choices and I have. End of discussion. I'm taking you back to your father as soon as I get the chance. He can deal with your trials and tribulations.” Harry felt as though he was ripping his own heart out when he told her that.

“I should hex you right here and now, God knows you would deserve it! Treating me like a common slag! Harry you are the biggest git I have ever met now let me go!” she was screaming now. She desperately wanted to get out of his grasp before she did something stupid, like kiss him. She figured hexing him was a better idea at the moment.

Hermione made a move to reach for her wand but Harry was quicker, he reached into the waistband of her skirt and pulled out her wand and hoisted her over his shoulder in one movement. He continued down the path with her still screaming at him.

“No Hermione I will not let you go! You are coming with me, you have no choice and your life depends on it. And I never treated you like a slag. Why, because you never would have allowed it for one moment until just now when I got into your skirt!”

Hermione saw her chance, she had a good position so she punched him hard, right on the jaw. The force of it and the surprise caused Harry to drop her and she ran in the opposite direction.

She didn't get far when she was lifted off the ground again from behind. Harry firmly grasped her at the waist with one hand and pinned her arms with the other.

“Yeah I guess I deserved that,” he whispered into her ear, it caused a shiver to run down her spine.

“Yes you did,” she whispered back, tears in her eyes. She wanted to get away from him badly and he refused to let her go, he had never acted like this before, She was almost afraid of him.

“Give me back my wand Harry,” she was still whispering, it was an order not a question.

“No.” he whispered back, sending shivers down her spine again. She tried to pry herself away but he held her tight until she gave up and relaxed against his chest.

Harry knew they had to look ridiculous standing in the middle of a dark road arguing like this.

“Tell me where you're taking me then.”

“No.”

“Why?” Her heart was pounding in her chest she was sure he could hear it.

“I need you to trust me.”

“No. Your forcing me to go somewhere, without my wand, you don't deserve trust.”

“You forced your way into a secret meeting, one that will decide the fate of the wizarding world, I was forced to give you my trust then. It's not so different Hermione.”

A tear fell down her cheek, he was right. She had tricked Harry, she never asked to join the meeting and she could have. Harry had to trust her not to say anything about what she had seen and heard, it was important and he had no control over it, she had taken that away. Her persistence had finally caught up with her. She should have convinced Luna and Ginny not to go. But she just had to know what was going on. She had never felt so bad; she had never forced or tricked anyone in her life. She wanted to run, but she didn't want to be out of his grasp. She wasn't sure what thought frightened her more.

“Fine, you're right.” she replied and then she felt as if she was being pushed though a very small tube. For a second she couldn't breath and couldn't move.

She staggered when she felt the ground again and she looked up. They were standing in front of a tall wrought iron gate. Harry walked forward and sent a silver stag from his wand though the gate up to the house. The gates opened when the spectral raced though them and Harry took Hermione's hand and led her up the long winding road.

“You can summon a Patronus?” she asked quietly.

“Yes. I learned a few years ago. I had some problems with dementors, so Lupin taught me how to get rid of them. I'm surprised you know about them.”

“Tonks is a very good teacher.” She smiled and he nodded.

After a few moments they came upon a large mansion looming out of the dark. Light appeared in a few windows as they approached.

“Are we staying here for the night?”

Harry nodded his head in a yes.

“Are you going to leave me here?”

Harry shook his head no.

“Whose house is this?”

“Mine. It's my parent's old place.”

Hermione was shocked, it was a huge estate with gardens and fountains and trees and fields that went on forever, hence the long walk up from the gate. The property went all they way down a low hill to a private bay with a dock, it looked as though it could handle several large ships.

“Oh” she replied.

The front door opened and a small creature with floppy ears bounded out and hugged Harry's legs.

“Harry Potter sir, Dobby is so pleased to see you sir. Everything is ready, me and Winky and Flopsy and Karl have kept things up well we has sir.”

“That's great Dobby, I know you've done a wonderful job.”

Harry opened the front door and guided Hermione into the house, her mouth dropped open, it was nicer than her home in Hogsmeade!

Everything seemed to sparkle it was so clean and the house glowed with warmth. It was not quite what she imagined Harry to have but it still seemed to fit him, somehow.

The house elf Dobby led them into the large kitchen where the small table had been laid out with roast beef sandwiches, sliced vegetables and ice-cold pumpkin juice.

Hermione sat down in a chair across from Harry and the elves disappeared.

“I never thought you would have house elves. You don't seem the type.”

“Oh I'm not. They have been with my family for years and so I had to keep them, they have nowhere else to go. But I pay them and give vacation days even though Winky protests. They are living beings that deserve respect too.” Harry sighed.

Hermione had to try and not smile even though she had the same thoughts.

She ate part of a sandwich but wasn't very hungry. Now that drink at the pub was sounding very appealing, mostly because of her fight with Harry who was equally quiet.

After a while she tried to make polite conversation.

“This house is really lovely Harry.”

He looked up at her and smirked, “Let me guess, you want to know how a pirate, an outlaw like me can have an estate like this?”

“Uh something like that...” Hermione mumbled.

Harry laughed out loud, “That mind of yours never stops does it? Well I guess I could tell the story of this house.” Hermione smiled and he continued, “Well it all started with my ancestor, his Grace Xavier Potter, Count of Godric's Hollow. He was born into a house with a title but no money. Yes I know it's strange but his parents died and left him only his title that they had been granted a few years before by the King, for service to the Crown or some rubbish like that. They were also grated all this land but they could only afford to put up the shack they lived in. It was on this very spot under a tree out in the garden. Well he jumped onto a ship at the age of fifteen and worked his way up. He saved his wages and bought out a shipping business. The Potters have had it ever since and it made Xavier enough money to build this house and the dock and keep his own fleet. He still loved to sail as much as do magic. Then when my father was born, the trouble started with Voldemort and the Ministry refused to acknowledge any of our social gains so we all became outlaws with warrants for arrest and prices on our heads. As a joke my father used to collect the posters to see how much he was worth! Sirius and Lupin do the same, to see who was worth the most, it was a game for them.”

“That is an interesting story. I never thought you were anything but a pirate! You don't seem like the society type, you don't care how big and grand your house is, only that it's comfortable and functional. ” Hermione sighed.

“Mmm yeah I guess so. What I am really thankful for is the dock and the bay. I can just put `The Stag' there with no troubles and it is safe from storms and other pirates because the cliffs are hard to sail unless you know what you're doing. The wards on the estate help too since they extend to the mouth of the bay.”

Harry realized he had been babbling happily when he had been yelling at her an hour before and figured he should say something.

They sat in silence for another while, taking a swig of pumpkin juice or a nibble of sandwich.

Hermione just wanted to go back to her boring life and forget all about everything, all about Harry and then wanted to kick herself for thinking that.

“Hermione…”, he started.

“No Harry you were right. I am just in the way, some bossy know it all that thought she knew what she was doing. Well it was stupid yes and dangerous and I'm sorry. I just wanted to help.”

“No I'm sorry. I didn't mean most of what I said. I just… you just… you know how to push me Hermione and I can't stand it and like it at the same time. You really drive me up the wall sometimes. Honestly I would have followed me too tonight. But they are out there looking for you, and that necklace. And I can only protect you so far, and now…now they might have yet another reason to come after you, one I can't hide you from. And that part scares me, more than anything.”

“Why? How can I affect you so much?”

“I..I...I…I don't know. I guess you are so… umm I'm not sure how to put it.” Harry gulped, that was close.

“Oh. I see. I'm just a bundle of trouble for you aren't I Harry? Just a problematic captive that you need to keep the score even?” Hermione looked up at him tears shining in her eyes.

“Forget it Hermione, he could never love you. Even though you let yourself fall for him when you got on the ship. Oh hell you fell for him when you saw him sneaking though your house and into your bedroom. Don't try to tell yourself that you didn't have an idea or two about that! No stop it. Just get out of the fantasy, it isn't real…”She tried to blink away the offensive drops of saltwater but one pesky tear fell down her cheek.

“No you are not just trouble for me and I only kept you hostage to keep you safe from Voldemort. You were never `leverage' for anything. I don't think like Draco Malfoy.” Harry cupped her face in his hand and wiped the tear away with his thumb. When he realized her was touching her he took his hand away as if her skin was fire.

“Yes you are big trouble for me Hermione, you make me crazy, you make me want to do things, bad things, wonderfully bad things… and those clothes are not helping matters…”

“You kept something important very safe and I don't know how I can thank you for doing my duty for ten years. And I am just afraid that you are going to get hurt and it will be completely my fault since you never asked for any of it.”

“I did tonight. That's part of why I followed you. I wanted a reason for you to keep me here…in the loop I mean, besides as leverage for the ministry. But I know you're not like Draco, you could never be like Draco. Seeing what you are trying to do, I want to help, I need to help.” She was trying to keep breathing normally.

“I.. uh… I see that now.” He sighed and she looked hopeful again. “Look it's a few hours `till dawn, why don't you go upstairs and get some sleep before we leave. I need to look up a few things and owl Neville. I'll have Winky show you to a room.”

Hermione followed the small elf up the stairs and into a grand bedroom. It had a large four-poster bed with velvet curtains and the entire room was decorated in gold and red.

“Here is the bedroom miss. I hope you will be comfortable.”

“The bedroom, Harry had never specified what grounds she was here on…Oh bullocks.”

“Umm Winky, whose room is this exactly?”

“Why, Count Potter's miss! Please let Winky know if you needs anything. Good night miss.” The house elf closed the door leaving Hermione standing in the room alone.

She was in Harry's room, she was supposed to sleep in his bed. She looked around for a couch she could camp out on but there was none, only the bed.

Winky had pulled out a large sleeping tunic of Harry's that would fall down to Hermione's knees and provide ample coverage besides her undergarments.

“Well this is bloody brilliant isn't it? I am supposed to be neutral about this, wanting to go home and then I have to go and sleep in his bed, like his actual wench! And be dressed in his nightshirt for goodness sakes! Oh what have I gotten myself into? ”

Apprehensively she undressed and pulled on the tunic and crawled in bed.

She sunk down into the deep feather mattress and pillows. The sheets were pure silk and soft. Winky had placed a bed-warmer in-between the sheets earlier and it made the entire bed warm. It always felt nice to climb into a warm bed after being around the cold sea. Hermione was exhausted from that night and quickly fell into a deep sleep.

Harry sent off an owl to Neville and to Ron who responded together. Both were back on the ship, having talked to Ginny and Luna. The two girls understood their position and wanted to be involved. They boys were not entirely pleased but grudgingly agreed that it was the girls' choice in the end.

Harry pulled out a large ledger and some papers for his shipping business. He had managed to keep it legitimate and gave into paying the hefty taxes on the merchandise. It was a small price to pay for good cover by his company; no one would suspect that the owner, such an honest businessman was really a pirate.

The present matter was a large shipment that had just come in from China and it contained various rare magical herbs that Neville had insisted would go for a good price. Harry had already received several offers that were even higher than Neville anticipated. He wrote several letters in response and sent his business owl, Archimedes, to deliver them. Hedwig look a little disappointed that her paramour was leaving so soon after she had arrived, she had quite the infatuation with Harry's tawny brown male.

Harry looked at the clock and saw that it was nearly two in the morning. Knowing that he had a busy day ahead of him, he trudged up the stairs to get into bed.

He was very surprised to see Hermione in it but realized his was the only bedroom furnished and suitable for sleeping. Every other room was closed off and the furniture was covered in dust cloths. Harry set both their wands on the nearest bedside table and pulled off his boots and his jacket.

He lifted the covers and saw that Hermione was wearing one of his nightshirts and nothing else except her knickers, he guessed.

“Well if I must, sleep next to her I shall! You live a charmed life Potter...” he smirked.

The events of that night had completely worn him out. Harry crawled in next to her and blew out the candles. He was asleep the second his head hit the pillow.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It was a dark and moonless night on the water. All was still; there was no wind or waves to disturb the silence. His bare feet hit the damp wood of the deck as he ran, trying to make it onto the large rowboat headed ashore. He had to make it to Dufftown, it was a matter of life and death.

The boat was shoving off from the ship, He ran faster to catch up and jumped off the deck and into the air, flying, and he landed on a canvas tarp in the boat with a small `thump'. Its occupants never noticed him.

He crept around the village, following the captain of the ship he'd stow away on. He had to remain undetected or it would ruin the entire plan.

The captain walked into the Hog's Head and sat down for a firewhiskey in a corner waiting for someone, his mark. Hidden in the dark they both watched their mark sit and have a few drinks with some wenches. Or at least they looked like wenches in revealing tops and suggestive skirts. The boots made him smile though, they were very appealing.

Finally the mark left and was followed by the captain and then by him. The captain tried to keep up with his mark but lost him in the hubbub of the docks and sauntered back to his ship. He found what he was looking for though, the ship! He carefully made his way up the gangplank and hid in the cabins. A few hours later a red head and a blond barged in and a fight ensued.

“How dare you tell me what I can and cannot do, you are acting just like my father! What you think just because you're a Baron gives you the right. To boss be around? It's not like you've made me your wench or something!.” The blonde raged.

“First of all, don't bring my stupid title into this! You know I don't give a rat's ass about that thing! Second what you did tonight scared me. Look all I care about is that you're safe and tonight you put yourself in a lot of danger. What if you were seen; caught even! Do you think I could live with myself if that happened? Did you three even consider what you were doing at the time, sneaking around Dufftown alone? And `The Order', you could have led them right to us! Everything could have been ruined and you could be dead, or Ginny or Hermione. Why because you just had to see what we were doing! You could have just asked for bloody sake! What… if you…I…Luna you could have been hurt or worse!” the red head retorted.

“Why do you care so much then? Please tell me Ronald! Why are you getting so worked up? Yes, what we did was not the wisest thing but nothing happened! We're fine, I'm just fine...” She crossed her arms in defense, tears in her eyes. Ron paced the ground in front of her mumbling for a few moments and then stopped and looked at her.

“You want the truth Luna? You want to know everything! Why what you did kills me, why you make me mental?”

“Yes! Just tell me for bloody sake!”, she threw up her arms in exasperation.

“Fine then I will!” Ron yelled and pulled the blonde to him, his lips crashing down on hers and they met in a passionate kiss.

She moaned into his lips and he smiled against hers. They broke apart and he leaned his forehead to hers.

“I love you Luna. If you died, so would I,” he whispered.

She was breathless from his declaration and his kiss, “Oh Ronald, why didn't you tell me?”

“I…I…I was afraid that you didn't… that you don't love me back.” He closed his eyes preparing for the blow to his heart, surely she couldn't love him, and it wasn't possible, was it?

“Oh but I do, I love you, Ronald, I always have!”

She wrapped her arms around him and kissed him. Her hands tangled in his red hair as his arms clung to her as if she would float away. They walked down the hall still entwined and stumbled into the first mate's cabin closing the door behind them.

He scurried up to the crack at the bottom and could hear Luna giggle from the inside. The giggling soon changed into more heated sounds and he quickly backed away from the noise. He ducked into a corner and hid in the darkness.

Hours later a snowy white owl flew onto the ship and tapped at the door. Ron answered it in only his breeches and read the letter and then went back inside. He heard talking from the other side but could not understand the words.

“Perfect, that is one couple my master will love to hear about. But what about that Potter boy? Where is he and the Lady Granger?”

The rat sat in his safe corner until a round faced boy and a red haired girl came on board a while later and the owl flew off again with a note. The boy knocked on Ron's door, which was answered by Luna. She looked as though she had dressed in a hurry.

The round-faced boy addressed as Neville looked slightly disheveled and the girl, Ginny was flushed. The four of them went down to the kitchens and discussed some of what went on in the meeting, but there was no mention of the necklace! Had they stopped looking for it?

The boy Neville then recounted his evening to Ron after the girls had left to go to their cabin, giggling as they walked down the hall.

“So what did you say to her mate?”

“I told her that she should have stayed on board, like Harry asked. That she risked too much by following us. Probably just what you told Luna.”

Ron sighed, “How did my lovely sister take it?”

“Oh we had quite a row and she got a good smack in on me, quite an arm that girl has, but I told her I was just worried about her well being and that there were bigger things at stake than her pride and being right. That seemed to calm her down. Mind you, she does get scary when she's mad.”

“Yeah, a trait she picked up from our mum. Luna and I had a similar uhh… discussion, but she saw reason enough.”

“Then why is there lipstick on your neck Ron? Or is that a new form of reasoning?” Neville smirked.

“Oh…I uhh…” Ron could only stammer.

“No I get it, you finally told her how you feel and she umm took it well I can guess. But am I allowed to assume that the noble Burrow estate will have a Baroness named Luna soon?”

“Very well mate, she took it very well! And as for her becoming Baroness, uhh I hope so. That's next on my list to talk to her about!” Ron laughed and Neville smiled.

“So umm what plans do you have on my sister?”

“I uhh… what!” Neville was caught off guard.

“Sir Longbottom, What. Plans. Do. You. Have. For. My. Sister. Ginny, you know the girl you keep staring after? The one who makes you lose concentration? The one you call out to in your sleep?”

“I umm… I thought I would take it slow, see how she feels about me first you know… umm be a gentleman? And I do not call out for her in my sleep!”

“Well that sounds good, but if you hurt her I will hex you to oblivion and that's because you one of my best mate's. Oh and yes you do, I have gotten complaints from the crew actually.” Ron gave a twisted smile and Neville nodded a little.

“I wonder when Harry is getting back?” he asked.

“Mmm not sure. I know he went to Godric's Hollow. Probably to check up on the shipping business and to deal with umm things, you know mate.”

“Ahh and those things involve…” Neville wiggled his eyebrows.

“God I hope they do. Those two need to figure it out already, before they drive themselves crazy!” Ron smiled and they started to snicker like schoolboys.

“Ahh yes, Godric's Hollow. The master is very aware of that home.. If I could only get the message before they leave. It's all too perfect. Granger must be there with Potter, oh and what a pair they make. A pirate and a lady, her father will love that! We can hold any of these girls hostage in exchange for information.”

The rat quickly ran up the stairs out onto the deck and down the gangplank. He was so excited he failed to keep under cover. The blonde wizard he was tailing earlier came out of the shadows and began to follow him instead.

“Oh bugger!” Draco muttered under his breath.

He hurried after the rat and saw him go onto his own ship `The Ferret', and down into his cabin. The rat transformed back to Peter who flooed Voldemort from the small fireplace. The Dark Lord's head appeared in the flames.

“Yes Wormtail, what do you know?”

Draco stayed in a dark corner out in the small hallway listening. Wormtail was using him to spy for the Dark Lord. He did not trust Draco or Lucius and this was proof.

“His Grace, Count Potter is at Godric's Hollow and he has the Lady Granger with him. The boys Weasley and Longbottom are in the Order; there was a meeting tonight. They did not speak of the necklace.”

“Good work, you are finally deeming yourself useful. Stay on Potter's ship and keep me informed.”

“Yes my Lord.” And Voldemort disappeared. Peter transformed back into a rat and scurried out of the cabin and towards `The Stag'.

Draco ran off the ship and into the dark towards Godric's Hollow, now he had conformation Potter was there. He disapparated as the sky turned light blue to give way to sunrise.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Harry stirred as the sun came though his windows, and at first was startled at not feeling the rocking motion of his ship. Then he remembered going back to his homestead and arguing with Hermione.

Oh right Hermione, the current object of his affection umm no… attention, yes that's good, and also presently sharing the other side of his bed, in his nightshirt.

“Hmm she does look particularly fetching in my tunic… I could get used to that…”

He looked over to see her slumbering in peace, lying on her stomach facing him, her curly brown hair splashed across the pillow. The nightshirt had hiked up in the night to mid-thigh, revealing lots of the creamy white skin of her legs.

The thought of her, them really, like this always, flitted though his mind; sharing a bed with her in this house. However he would have liked their positions to be much closer (as in wrapped in each other's arms) and the nightclothes to be optional. Harry smirked wickedly at that thought. After all he is a hot-blooded man and she, a beautiful and enticing young woman.

Since his parent's had died he avoided Godric's Hollow like the plague, only checking in from time to time. Now he was thinking about being here always, with her? He really did need to get her back to her father, to her life. So he could get back to his.

“Separate worlds Potter, separate worlds, just keep telling yourself that when you're about to lose your composure…”

Harry forced himself out of his thoughts, got out of bed and headed towards the bathroom to get cleaned up for the day. He left the bathroom freshly bathed and combed when he remembered something important. He set Hermione's wand next to her on the nightstand as he walked out to go over some business ventures.

Harry entered his study to find a letter from Neville telling him about the rum sale, they had done well. Seamus's rum usually fetched a good price and they were able to restock supplies for the next voyage, with galleons to spare.

He was sitting at the breakfast table on the first floor terrace drinking a cup of tea and reading the morning Prophet. The first floor terrace looked out onto the back gardens and further to the bay. Grand steps led down to another terrace below and from that one, stairs down to another that was situated in front of a decent sized pond complete with a fountain and magical (but friendly) water creatures. Harry must have looked the part of his title as Count Potter of Godric's Hollow for once when Karl alerted him that there was someone at the gate.

“Your Grace, there is a wizard ringing the bell at the gate, should I see what he wants sire?”

Harry's house elves had been trained not to let visitors know Harry was home at all until they consulted their master. It was the only safe way he could have a day of peace to keep up with the family business. Despite the fact that it was mostly run by Lupin since he would stay at the Potter Estate more than Harry did. He was also a partner along with Sirius in the venture.

Harry walked over to his telescope that was constantly trained on the gate from in the front parlor and saw Draco Malfoy pacing. Harry's muscles tightened and he did some mental knuckle cracking.

“Karl, greet him but tell him I am not at home, that I left early this morning. Ask if he wishes to leave me a message.”

“Yes sir.”

“Thank you Karl.”

The house elf gave a little bow and Harry grimaced, he hated when they did that, it was unnecessary. A few moments later, he could see Karl trotting out to the gate with a little sack that held a small writing desk outfitted with quill and parchment. He did smile at the thought of Malfoy's reaction to leaving him a message. What would it say, “I'm going to get you Potter, and your little wench too?” Harry chucked at the thought and then remembered, Hermione!

He knew that Malfoy was going to watch the estate with his goons. He wouldn't believe that Harry wasn't there until he had wasted an entire day watching for him. Draco was just that thick and would jump at the chance to re-kidnap Hermione the second they left the protective spells of the estate.

Harry called for Hedwig and dashed off a quick note to Ron to pack up the crew and sail over to his private bay. Luckily the spells extended to the bay and its rocks and allowed only the ships Harry designated to pass though the barrier.

Now all he could do was wait for the ship to pull up. He called for Dobby and asked him to keep an eye open for his ship to anchor in the bay.

Harry walked upstairs and into the bedroom but found it empty, and so was the bathroom. The large tub showed evidence of a recent bubble bath, but not his own. Harry started to search the house for Hermione, she wouldn't have tried to leave right? She knew it was dangerous; they didn't fight that night for nothing. She had just taken a bath and was looking around, he hoped.

Harry raced around the house and on the third floor he saw a door propped open, it led to the library. Of course, he should have checked there first, Tonks always told him what a book fanatic she was.

Hermione was standing on the third rung of a ladder attached to one of the bookshelves. The library actually took up two floors, the third and fourth. There was a landing that divided the floor to ceiling shelves and a winding staircase that led to said landing and the fourth floor. Rolling ladders had been installed to make it easier to reach the higher shelves that were unfortunately only partially full of books.

“She could fill this room up with books, she would lo-..no stop it. That's not going to happen.”

“Hermione?”

She jumped and almost fell off the ladder and he raced over to grab her.

“Oh Harry you startled me!”

“Sorry, are you all right?” He chuckled as he set her on the floor.

“Oh yes I'm fine. I just couldn't help myself when I saw the library. It's a shame there aren't more books on the shelves.”

Harry grinned slyly, “Hermione my parents were pirates, when did they have time to go to the bookshop?”

She looked sheepish as she muttered, “Oh yes right.” She paused, “Umm is everything alright Harry?”

“Umm well yes and no.”

“Explain further please.”

“Okay, well for starters your boyfriend Draco and his league of extraordinary wizards, who excel at sleeping and Exploding Snap, are currently staked out all around the gate and probably in the town as well.”

Hermione looked pained, “How are we going to get out of here?”

“Ah that is the `yes' part. Ron and Neville, as we speak, are sailing the ship around to my private and secret bay that only they can enter. Malfoy has no idea it exists and even if he did, he couldn't sail into it.”

Hermione let out a breath of relief. “Oh that's good. So we are just going to wait for your ship to come in?” She smirked at her slight pun.

“Yep. And when it does I think I will have a small dinner party for the whole crew, just to irk Captain Draco. And don't think I didn't catch that pun milady.”

Hermione giggled, “Honestly I was worried there for a moment. I thought the jig was up!”

“Hermione you know I wouldn't let anything happen to you.” It was out of his mouth before he could stop it. Hermione's eyes widened slightly but she held her composure.

“Oh yes well umm th-thank you Harry. I know I have been some trouble for you in all this.”

“Hermione you are no trouble...” Harry stammered.

“No I have been and to make up for it I am going to plan your dinner party. I doubt you have had much experience at those things?”

“Umm no, not exactly.” Harry smiled and ran a hand through his hair.

“Alright then, let Karl and Dobby know they will need to tidy up the house and I will tell Winky and Flopsy what dishes to cook for dinner. And if you tell me where the wine cellar is I can select…”

Harry interrupted, “Hermione? Pirates remember?”

“Oh yes right, rum, butterbeer and firewhiskey to drink then?” she laughed jokingly.

Harry laughed and nodded his head and Hermione ran off to the kitchen.

She walked in to it being empty and sat on a stool and leaned on the island in the middle of the room.

“Why are you planning his dinner parties and offering to select the wine, you sound like his bloody wife! Start acting like a normal person and stop being so stupid, honestly you are embarrassing yourself…”

She was brought out of her musings when Winky came in and Hermione proceeded to list off the three-course meal and how many `guests' would be attending.

While Hermione was trying not to play lady-of-the-house, Harry was lounging in his study while Dobby cleaned the dining and drawing rooms.

“She's practically planning my life now, look how experienced she is at the party organizing. She could do this all the time and I do have the funds bankroll it. Come to think of it I have more galleons than her father does. I could give her a better life….”

“There you go again Potter, making fruitless plans for the wench in the short skirt and suggestive boots. You need to stop thinking about her if you want to get out alive.”

Hedwig flew in later that day with a note from Ron telling him `The Stag' was only an hour or so away and he wrote back with the announcement of the dinner party for the crew. They deserved a break.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Draco paced restlessly under the tree across the road from the Potter Estate. Crabbe and Goyle were napping in the shade `waiting' for the scouts to report any way into the estate.

He was mumbling about `getting Potter' when Lucius Malfoy apparated in front of him.

“Father what are you doing here?”

“The Dark Lord has found out that Potter is hosting a `dinner party' and has invited his crew along with half of `The Order'. He sent me to suss out the situation. What are you doing here Draco?”

“I discovered that Potter and Lady Granger were here and I came to try and re-capture her.” Draco spat back, he was seething now that Potter was having a party. He knew that Harry knew he was outside and was having this party to taunt him.

“How were you going to do that Draco?”

“Well now that I know he is expecting guests, I'll sneak in along with them in disguise as they enter the gates.”

Lucius laughed at the simplicity of his son's plan. “Do you think that will work? Honestly Draco.”

“Do you have a better plan Father” he replied.

Lucius did not have a better plan, or any plan for that matter. He stared at Draco who smiled when he realized his father had no plan.

“Just don't embarrass me Draco!” Lucius spat and apparated back to his own ship `The Manor'.

Draco just leaned against the tree and looked smug. He was finally going to get one over Potter.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“So Harry is hosting a dinner party?” Neville at the helm asked Ron who was navigating.

“Appears that way doesn't it Nev? I wonder what prompted the idea.”

“You mean who prompted the idea don't you Ron?”

Ron laughed, “Yes that would be the right question wouldn't it? So what do you think of the New Captain Harry?”

“Well I think he's a bit on edge you know? Like something or someone has his knickers in a bunch.” Neville rotated the wheel in the direction of Harry's bay.

“Yeah, I guess Hermione has him in a right state. But from what Ginny told me, he has the same effect on her. Now look what's happening, she's probably the one planning this thing. A dinner party, for pirates no less!

“Mmm you have point, it is pretty comical when you look at it like that. Did he invite anyone from the Order?”

“Sir Longbottom”, Ron replied in a false pompous voice, “ His Grace, has invited the entire Order of the Phoenix. Everyone who's anyone is expected to attend this horribly grandiose affair.”

Neville almost spun the ship off course he was laughing so hard at Ron, who had taken a very proper stance, with his nose in the air.

He maintained this composure until he was hit smack in the face with a ball of seaweed.

Fred and George gave each other praise at their wonderful aim from the crow's nest.

“Oi! You two stop messing around and keep a lookout! Death Eaters could be following us and we'll never know it because you are too busy throwing seaweed!”

“Well Ronniekins if you want to pull rank with us then fine we'll go back to looking for nothing. Oh by the way my glorious First Mate, you have a piece of seaweed dangling from your very pink ears.” George retorted.

Ron's ears changed to crimson as he brushed aside the offending plant.

“Rotten gits” he mumbled under his breath.

The ship sail on for a while longer until Fred shouted, “Hollow Bay approaching!”

Ron now took over the helm and steered `The Stag' into the mouth of the bay.

`The Phoenix', `The Dog' and `The Moon Bainer' were already docked in the bay and the crews were heading up to the terraces where tables and chairs had been conjured to seat the guests.

The ship was pulled up and tied to the enormous dock by its crew who immediately headed up to the road to the terraces to greet the other Order members and embark on a night of revelry.

Hermione was in the kitchen making sure that dinner was to her specifications and busy worrying that there might not be enough.

“Missus, we have made dinner exactly as you tolds us.” The small elf was ringing her hands in fear that she and Flopsy had done something wrong.

She stopped at a voice from the kitchen doorway.

“Winky. Stop wringing your hands, I know that the dinner is perfect. Miss Granger is just overreacting.” Harry patted the elf on the head.

“ I am not overreacting! I just want to make sure there's enough food for everyone and that there won't be too much left over and ….”

But she was cut off when Harry put his hand over her mouth, “Hermione, I'm sure that everything will be fine. We need to head outside, have a good time and let the house elves do their jobs.”

Hermione nodded and Harry released her and led her towards the party.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Draco paced around the tree outside the estate. Where was everyone?

He had received word that Potter was throwing a little shindig but no one was showing up!

The sky was turning pink as the sun set and Draco could hear sounds of laughter and music coming from the back of the estate.

“How the hell did Potter slip in all those guests right under my nose? What the bloody hell is going on?”

Finally the pink gave way to a deep blue and stars could be seen twinkling in the sky.

Draco kicked the dirt and let out a yell of anguish that echoed around the trees. “Dammit all Potter, I'm going to get you! And that little wench too!”

This time things would be different; he knew a way to get his hands on Hermione. A slick grin crossed his features as he ordered his goons back to the ship. He was the last one to apparate away.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

From one of the tall windows in the study, Harry, Ron and Neville watched Draco's antics. They smiled a little until they heard him yelling. His words chilled Harry straight to the bone and caused all three to really worry.

Ron flopped on the small sofa with his glass of firewhiskey and sighed.

“I think he is going to be a problem,” Harry stated after a few moments.

Ron nodded in agreement as did Neville.

“Harry…we'll have to keep an eye on him. But we need to get to the meeting on Grimmauld Isle in three days!”

“I know, but I'm worried he might actually have a good plan this time.”

Ron finally spoke up from his soft spot, “You know Harry…there is another option. Sirius sent me his new coordinates for the Isle and it's not too far off from…umm well you know.”

Sirius had enchanted his island to be in constant motion until he decided to stay in one spot for a time.

Harry sighed and looked out the door towards the party that had moved into the ballroom downstairs.

The light from the double doors glowed golden and sounds of laughter echoed up to the small study.

“Ron…I think that you're right. We'll need to make one short stop before we go onto the meeting.”

Neville looked up from his butterbeer, “How many do you want to drop off?”

“I'll have to talk to Remus, but I'm safely guessing four.”

The other two nodded their heads and walked back down to the party.

Harry just stood there in the darkness, the reality of what he had to do setting in.

He knew he wasn't the only one who wouldn't like it.

Not one bit.