Chapter 39: 2nd Year EndsNotes:(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter TextHogwarts was again in high spirits. Not only were the heir's victims being unpetrified, but McGonagall mentioned there wouldn't be any final exams this year with the exceptions of N.E.W.T.s and O.W.L.s. Those tests needed to happen anyways. OWLs determined what classes you took 6th and 7th year. NEWTs were needed for post-grad job placement.
"Who wants to bet Hermione will be disappointed to hear that once she's unpetrified?" Hannah jokingly asked as Harry and Susan laughed. They knew it was very likely a possibility with Hermione.
"Is it wrong I'm glad to hear about Lockhart's misfortune?" Ernie asked from nearby after swallowing a bite of lunch.
"No. It isn't. Talk about embarrassing though. He got caught by some of Hogwarts basic defense charms as he tried to sneak out and Apparate from the castle," Cedric said with a shake of head.
"I heard he doesn't even remember his own name," Lilly Moon said with a giggle.
"Why did he try to run anyways?" A fifth year asked.
"Turns out the other professors suggested he track down the heir himself. They even used his own boastings against him," Cedric said with a chuckle as the others joined with their own laughs.
It was at that moment the doors to the hall opened loudly. Everyone looked to see who it was. "Hagrid!" Harry and a few others greeted him.
"I'm Back!" Hagrid said with a hearty laugh. He made a stop at the Hufflepuff table to give Harry a proper hello before getting to the staff table. He came back as soon as he could and didn't have anything to eat yet. He understandably wanted to get from Azkaban as quickly as possible.
[-] [-] [-]
"Awwww… I was so ready for them too," Hermione said with a frown once she got the news about no exams. The others chuckled and she looked to them curiously.
"Sorry… It just seems very fitting you would be upset at missing exams," Harry said.
Hermione decided to let it slide this time. Harry was lucky he had such wonderful eyes.
"I would rather we had them, but they weren't graded," Luna said from her bed next to Hermione.
"Exactly! That way we can review the material and know how well we did this year at least. See! Luna gets it," Hermione said with a triumphant smile.
"I wanted them to not count, so I could have fun making up answers. I've always wanted to do that on a test, but I would never dream of it when they're graded," Luna said.
Hermione looked to her in shock.
Harry and the others laughed and Hannah said, "I agree. Luna does have the right of it!" She gave an extra giggle to that.
Hermione looked to be in thought. She then blushed quickly. There was a part of her that really liked Luna's idea. She still changed the subject. She didn't want them asking her about her blush. "Too bad about Professor Lockhart. I mean. I wouldn't want him as a professor again, but to lose your memory?" she said in sorrow.
"I don't feel sorry for him at all," Harry said.
"Why not?" Hermione asked.
"I overheard one of the professors talking about how fitting it was considering. It turns out he got his fame by asking others what they did and using a memory charm on them afterwards. That way he got all the fame and glory without doing any of the work," Harry said.
"I think I heard there will be an article about it in the next Daily Prophet. Someone heard about Lockhart's fate and another person recently broke the memory charm. They aren't perfect, you see. It will probably remain a mystery who all he stole from, but his name is ruined now," Susan said.
Hannah gave a scoff. "He'll probably still have fans. It is sickening at times how a handsome face and a dazzling smile can cause certain witches to forgive a lot," she said.
The group visited a good bit before they had to leave. Harry paused and said to Luna, "I promised Myrtle I'd tell her when you woke up, Luna. She was very distraught to hear you were attacked. She ended up being a very big help in taking care of this business."
"Ohhh! That's good to hear. I'm glad she helped. I've told her a few times always staying uninvolved with mortals would come back to haunt her. She just laughed… Maybe it was my wording," Luna said.
"Probably. She was a big help though," Harry again emphasized.
"I'll be more than happy if she visits," Luna told him with a smile as they left.
[-] [-] [-]
Harry walked to Professor Snape's office during his office hours. He knocked on the door and waited for a response.
"Enter," Professor Snape replied.
Harry entered and closed the door behind him. Professor Snape looked to him and used his wand to lock the door. "I suppose this will become an annual event," he said.
"So long as the dark lord isn't defeated for good anyways," Harry said.
"I guess congratulations are in order for saving the youngest Weasley and solving the case of the Chamber," Professor Snape said.
"Something I shouldn't have needed to do in the first place. Professor Dumbledore knew who it was the whole time. Has he yet taken up my advice?" Harry asked.
"What would that advice be?" Professor Snape asked.
"To stop keeping everything to himself," Harry said.
"He has always been secretive," Professor Snape said.
"What did he tell you happened in Chamber?" Harry asked.
"Ginevra Weasley was influenced by a heavily enchanted diary belonging to a certain dark lord, but given to her by Lord Malfoy as a ploy against Arthur Weasley," he said.
"That's all he said? That's isn't much more than I gave as explanation to the Weasleys… I was sugarcoating it and he was aware of that. I said enough he would understand what it actually was or had a very good theory that was almost 95% confirmed by this point. It seems he didn't tell everything I said to the Weasleys either," Harry said.
"I'm guessing you will fill in the blanks," Professor Snape said.
"May I sit down, Professor?" Harry asked.
Professor Snape nodded. He figured he might get himself a drink. It seemed this would be a difficult discussion.
"Ginny wasn't alone in the Chamber," Harry started.
Professor Snape narrowed his eyes as he put in a little more in his glass.
"The diary took form. It was absorbing her life force and it was nearly physically manifested when we arrived," Harry said.
"That is… troubling…" Professor Snape said. "Who are you all referring to when you say 'we'?"
"To get around the basilisk's death gaze, Myrtle and I set up a voluntary possession," Harry said.
"That is fascinating… And something important that was left out of even my provided explanation," Professor Snape said.
"It was a bit of a gamble she came up with using the knowledge she had from spending most of her non-crying time in the library over fifty years. She was the one who died last time. Professor Dumbledore was just the Transfiguration Professor back then, but he would still know she was the one who died last time. There's also no way he wasn't aware of her as a ghost, considering how infamous she was," Harry said.
"This is true… Yet he didn't even think to approach her. The Headmaster carries some influence over the ghosts of Hogwarts. It was a security measure put in place early on, even if it is rarely used," Professor Snape said.
He frowned in thought. He didn't understand why the Headmaster hadn't done anything sooner. There's also the fact he knew who opened it. Sure, there were details that needed to be figured out, but still he hadn't even mentioned anything to the staff or even him personally.
"Does he really trust my resolve that little? " Professor Snape wondered. He would correct that mistake. He was slowly moving on, but it didn't change the fact Voldemort killed his only true friend and the one he loved, misguided as his definition of love may have been at the time.
Harry seemed to be weighed down by what he was going to say next.
"It seems you're worried about something. You could say it to the Headmaster if you feel I am not adequate enough," the Potions Professor said. He wouldn't lie to himself and say he and Harry were close. They were not. They didn't hate each other and were mutually aligned, but that was far from a meaningful relationship beyond professor and student.
"It isn't that… It's not easy. It's also hard to believe," he said. After a moment of collecting his thoughts, he said, "First of all, having been through a voluntary possession… I have the knowledge Myrtle had. That is how I know what I am going to say. She read a lot of books later removed from library for having 'dangerous' information."
Professor Snape took a swig of his drink. "I will at the very least entertain your idea. Most likely I will look into it as well. When it comes to the Dark Lord… Nothing is off the table, or too out there and should be at least considered," Professor Snape said.
"Okay…" Harry readied himself. "I believe the Diary was a near complete Horcrux," he said.
Professor Snape's eyes widened to that. His mouth hung open. He then shook himself back to attention and took a gulp of his drink. He narrowed his eyes. He hated to say it, but it made sense. "That could easily explain his seeming immortality. Many knew the Dark Lord was obsessed with immortality," Professor Snape said.
"That's what I'm thinking using the knowledge I gained from Myrtle," Harry said.
The professor thought about Harry's words. "What do you mean near complete?" he asked.
"The diary was too independent. A complete horcrux would not act on its own. It also wouldn't be in the form of something like a diary. I'm pretty sure he would choose something grander," Harry said.
"It could have been an experiment. Perhaps at the time of the diary's creation he wasn't aware of how to properly create one. It is rather… unsettling… he accomplished something like that during his years at Hogwarts," Professor Snape said.
"I agree on that. I also don't think it is outside of the realm of possibility. As you said… with the Dark Lord, nothing should be wholly discounted," Harry said.
"Are you sure Professor Dumbledore would have come to this conclusion as well?" Professor Snape asked. He didn't want to think the Headmaster would keep something so vital to their efforts secret, but he could very well do that.
"I may have avoided saying certain words, but I was very descriptive in what happened in the Chamber. I told him all I could about the shade the diary formed and how it was defeated and the way it died," Harry said.
"How did you defeat it? I've never looked in detail for something so foul as a horcrux, but I am aware they are difficult to defeat," Professor Snape said.
"I used Basilisk venom to destroy the diary. I stabbed it multiple times with a fang," Harry told the professor.
"That would do the trick," Professor Snape admitted.
"I umm…" Harry started but trailed off.
"Yes?" Professor Snape asked.
"I believe he would have more than just one proper horcrux," Harry said.
"Really?!" Snape asked with wide eyes. Making one was both impressive, but just as terrifying. Making more than that? He discounted the diary to an extent since it wasn't a true horcrux. That was extra troubling.
"I may be over thinking it, but I don't see him settling for just one. When I saw his smoke form back in first year… It was so very inhuman. That is, in a way, a sign of having more than one. You strip away literal pieces of yourself every time you make one," Harry said.
Professor Snape took another large gulp of his drink. He then sighed. "I can see where you are coming from… It also lines up with his ego. One horcrux is for lesser wizards. Multiple is what a true wizard would create. A true 'Pure-blood' heir of Slytherin would make. Why settle for just one anchor? One can be found and destroyed much easier than multiple," the professor said as Harry nodded in agreement.
"I have no idea how many he would make though. I have no idea what all they are either," Harry said.
"This is something that should be shared with the headmaster I feel," Professor Snape said.
"You can share this theory with him if you want. I just didn't want to tell him, because I feared what he would do to me if I told him everything. Look at all he did to cover up the Chamber incident. I noticed it wasn't until after he was removed things actually started getting done about it, even if they were bare minimum," Harry said.
Professor Snape sighed again. "I will be careful with the information. I will first see if I can get him to tell me his own ideas on the matter. If he mentions Horcruxes to me, I will float the idea of the Dark Lord possibly making multiples. It could be he already thinks that as well. He may even have a possible number in mind by this point," he said.
As they were there in silence for a moment, Harry decided to break the tension. He had had enough of serious and scary discussions for the day. "So… Have you figured out where I'm living yet?" he asked with only a slight smile.
Professor Snape blinked at him and almost chuckled as he said, "I shouldn't be surprised you figured I would look into what happened to you."
"I figured it only made sense," Harry said.
"I will admit I am looking into the matter with equal parts curiosity and out of concern. The way I see it… If it takes me a good while to find you, then it is full proof Dumbledore was wrong in thinking you had to stay with your aunt and uncle. It also means it is less likely anyone else would be able to find you," he said with a hint of amusement. It was probably the drink settling in that caused him to loosen up a bit.
"I can see where you're coming from. What will you do if you find me?" Harry asked.
"Reassess the situation. Though… there probably isn't any fear of anyone else finding you unless the Dark Lord returns to full power. If that happens… It might be too late even if Dumbledore had been right about you needing to stay with your aunt and uncle this whole time, despite my personal thoughts on the matter," Professor Snape said. He left out what they were. He didn't feel like given Harry any clues on how far the investigation was.
Harry stood up and gave a slight nod as he said, "Thank you for your time, Professor Snape. Thank you again for brewing up the Restoration Draft."
"That was merely my duty as Potions Master and Professor at Hogwarts. Until next year, Potter," Professor Snape said realizing their meeting was over.
[-] [-] [-]
"Not going to lie," Justin started as he sat next to Harry at the closing feast. "I really like the whole yellow and black décor," he said.
"You and me both!" Ernie said from the other side of Justin.
"I kind of like it too," Harry said.
"Maybe all of your adventures should earn us house points," Ernie said with a teasing grin.
"I'd prefer not to have big house point worthy adventures every year," Harry said.
"Then it'd be a boring year," Ernie said.
"It's probably impossible for you not to have some big end of year adventure, Harry. Best make full use of them in the future," Justin said as everyone at their table laughed in agreement. Harry joined in after a couple of seconds, before they went back to their meals.
Harry was surprised when the Weasley Twins approached him after the feast. He was surprised because of how serious they actually looked. "What's going on?" Harry asked.
"We've been thinking," Fred started.
"About something other than pranks," George added.
"About how to repay you," they said together.
"It isn't money… But to us it was worth more than any number of galleons," George said.
Fred handed Harry a piece of paper.
"What is it?" Harry asked.
"The Marauders' Map!" the twins said together.
Harry had a double take at those words. "It can't be… " he thought.
"This is the key to our success in never getting caught after curfew. To get it working, you have to tap your wand to it and say, 'I solemnly swear I'm up to no good'. Go ahead and try it," Fred said.
Harry gazed in wonder as a map of Hogwarts appeared on the paper. He could even pan around it and zoom in and out. He squinted as he looked at all of the footprints and saw the names. "That's us…" he said in awe.
"Very handy feature, that. Always makes it easy to know who is around the corner. When you are finished with it, say 'Mischief Managed' to clear it. Wouldn't want certain sticklers for the rules to find and use it," George said.
"To think, we liberated the best way to avoid pinheads like Percy from Filch's office," Fred said.
Harry couldn't help but say, "You do realize I am likely to be a Prefect my fifth year, right? I'm not only the top guy in Hufflepuff, but also our year."
"Yeah. But you aren't stuck up like our poor misguided older brother. Bill was a Prefect and Head Boy. He wasn't a Pinhead though," George said with a grin.
"Cedric's likely to be one next year, but he isn't a Pinhead either… Even if he is far too good at Quidditch for our liking," Fred said with a slight frown.
"Not all Prefects are Pinheads. Just like how not all Pinheads are Prefects. Though a good number of them are," George said.
"Besides… The things you've already gotten up to before the end of your second year? Well… You'll probably put this to better use than even we did," Fred said.
"My less than handsome twin, except on opposite days, is correct. We know all of the secret passageways it shows by heart now. We stopped using the footprint feature this year," George said.
"Wasn't challenging enough using that feature. Our skills of bringing humor and laughter to these halls has evolved past the need of such a handicap," Fred said matter-of-factly.
Harry grinned as he looked at the title again and saw all of his father's friends' names. He hid the frown he had for the most likely traitor's name. It was nice to have something else that was a part of his father's past. He wondered what Lupin would say when he showed it to him over summer.
"Thanks, you two," Harry said with a smile.
The twins looked serious to each other and turned to him. "We are the ones thanking you. You saved our sister's life. That is worth more than the Marauders' Map and we value that more than galleons," they said together.
"I still thank you for the gesture. Be there for Ginny this summer… Don't just act like this year never happened," Harry said in concern. He wasn't sure if they would heed his advice, or if they would even need to hear it. He just knew Ginny needed all the support she could get after everything that happened to her this year.
"We will be," they said again together.
The serious mood could only last for so long with the twins though. Soon George smiled as he said, "So long as she doesn't threaten us with her Bat Bogey Hex or something equally terrifying."
Fred was giving an exaggerated nod to that. "She may be the youngest… But she is the fiercest," he said sagely.
"There's also the fact she's a girl," George said.
"What does that have to do with it?" Harry asked curiously.
"Almost every Weasley witch married into the family. It is rare for a witch to be born as a Weasley. We don't know what that means, but dad is always saying it is important to know. He isn't just saying it to say it either," Fred said.
"Huh. That is interesting," Harry said.
"We essentially give him a grave warning about Weasley witches, yet he just calls it interesting," George said.
"Really… It's a wonder he wasn't sorted into Gryffindor," Fred said with a shake of his head.
"Oh. I could have been in any house. It's for my beliefs I was put in Hufflepuff," Harry said.
"What kind of beliefs put you in the house for all the rest?" George asked.
Harry didn't look impressed by those words. He wasn't going to ruin the mood though. "One that is important to me. Loyalty… to those who deserve it," Harry said.
The twins blinked to that. Everyone always figured Hufflepuff loyalty was just a thing because they had little else going for them. The way Harry talked about it… that seemed impressive. Admirable even. "That is something to think on," Fred said as he rubbed his chin.
"Think on it all you want. I'm going back to my house for now though. See you two later," Harry said as he parted from their company. The twins nodded to him and soon headed back as well.
[-] [-] [-]
"I'm honestly surprised you're sitting with us, Luna," Hermione said as she shared a compartment with Harry, Hannah, Susan, and Luna.
"Ginny is back to how she should be. She no longer has those black Wrackspurts around her either. She needs to be with her brothers for now though. I'll try talking to her again over summer," Luna said.
"I hope it goes well for you both," Hermione said with a smile. She was pretty sure both girls needed it. Luna needed it so she wouldn't feel her best friend threw her away once school started. Ginny needed it, because she really needed friends after this year. Everyone did to an extent.
"Thanks," Luna said giving Hermione a big smile and hug.
The door to the compartment opened at that moment. Harry looked and saw Draco, Pansy and Tracey together. Harry looked to Draco and said, "Sorry to hear about your father's dismissal from the board."
"You don't need to talk around it with me. I know you were there when it happened," Draco said.
Harry wasn't sure what to say here. He sighed. "It was his own doing," he stated.
"I agree with that. He should have had a plan besides something as obvious as blackmail," Draco said.
Harry relaxed a little and nodded. He also motioned for them to enter, which they did as Hannah and Susan made room for them. "He should have waited until after the crisis and then acted," Harry said.
"Yes. And used the fact Dumbledore took so long to deal with it against him. People usually shore up when there is a crisis. They reach out for the familiar. They don't want to rock the boat," Draco said.
"After the crisis has passed, people are more willing to re-evaluate the situation. Find out what caused what and all of that," Tracey said.
"He could have even used Dumbledore knowingly hiring a fraud for such an important class as more evidence against him. He would just have to omit Lockhart was the only one wanting the job," Pansy said.
Draco sighed. "It hasn't been easy… but this year… I've come to realize my father isn't as all knowing as I used to believe," he said.
Harry nodded to him. He then thought how to change the subject. He had an idea as he looked to Luna. He suddenly remembered something she mentioned to him. Harry was pretty sure Draco would realize what it could possibly mean to Pansy as well.
"Luna…" he started.
"Hmmm?" she asked.
"You mentioned something about Wrackspurts that I'm curious about. A couple of things really," he said.
Luna seemed to smile even brighter. "I'm always willing to talk about Wrackspurts," she said.
Draco appreciated the change of subject, but was thinking maybe it was time to leave. However, that inkling he always got around Harry came back again. He wanted to see where Harry was going with this. It couldn't be merely a simple change of subject.
"You talked about how they change colors," Harry started. Luna nodded eagerly. "After the holiday break, you said they told you befriending Hermione and me was a good idea," he said.
She thought back to that for a moment and nodded again.
"What exactly did you mean by that again?" he asked.
Luna was in thought on this. She looked around the compartment. It was a bit of hard thing to say with others here, now that she thought on it. She then titled her head at a small angle when the Wrackspurts were getting excited. That seemed to happen a lot around Harry, but she knew to trust it.
"I was saying if you pay enough attention to them, despite few people being able to see them, you can hear them in a way. They give hints about things. More like… feelings than actual words. But their reactions and behaviors all have meaning of some kind. You have to really be careful though. They don't always communicate with you properly. Sometimes you have to really focus on them and be in the right state of mind to understand them," she said.
"What do these… Wrackspurts… appear like?" Pansy asked. She seemed extra keen on this.
Luna blinked in surprise to her words. She had never really had much interaction with Pansy. "Like tiny little lights. They buzz around. Change colors. They can even get really excited at times. They can be confusing. They can be overwhelming," she said.
"Who else do you know for sure can see them?" Pansy asked carefully.
Draco was very interested now as well. He was starting to see why Potter was around Luna, one of the reasons at least. She was far from boring and there might be something much more to her. He also thought he understood why Harry chose this topic to change to.
"Daddy told me what they were when I was little. He's never really seen them from what I can tell though. Even when they were at their most excited at times," Luna said.
"And these… Wrackspurts tell you things? Such as when something important is happening or something is wrong?" Pansy asked.
Luna was looking to her with discerning eyes. This wasn't at all what she thought of when it came to talking about Wrackspurts. She could tell, without the Wrackspurts' help, Pansy was asking her out of sincerity. This was not a lead Luna on and then laugh at her discussion. Harry also wouldn't have mentioned the Wrackspurt thing in front the Slytherins, unless he had a good reason.
"They do. Not exactly in words, as I said. But they do… Even when it comes to bad stuff," Luna said.
Pansy seemed excited now. Luna thought she seemed to be listening to something herself. Pansy stood up right in front of Luna. "You aren't seeing or hearing Wrackspurts at all. They don't actually exist," she said.
Luna narrowed her eyes. "Was I wrong about this? " she asked herself.
"It's the essence of magic communicating with you," Pansy said. She couldn't help the excited smile gracing her lips.
"The essence of magic?" Luna asked in awe.
Pansy nodded fervently. "Yes. Magic is communicating to you directly! You just don't have the training or experience to listen properly yet," she said.
"That's… wow," Luna said.
"Perhaps you should tell her why you are saying this, Pansy," Draco told her.
Pansy blushed for a moment. "Sorry… The Parkinson family are gifted in listening to magic. It is very difficult to listen to magic. It is possible to do so with enough training, but some are exceptionally gifted in listening to magic. Magic's communications take on a different form for these people, until the learn how to listen properly," she said.
"Really?" Luna couldn't help but ask. She didn't like learning Wrackspurts possibly weren't real, but she was a Ravenclaw. Ravenclaws worth their blue and bronze were always ready to learn and at least consider other possible theories. Luna was different, but she was very much a Ravenclaw.
"It can be overwhelming for them though. It can be… unpleasant… It could lead to actual insanity in cases. The person has to either block out magic's attempts, or learn to listen to avoid such a fate," Pansy said.
"Why would someone want to stop such a gift?" Luna asked.
"They have their reasons… I can help you listen. If you want," Pansy said.
"I'm not saying no, but why do you want to help me?" Luna asked.
"It has always been a goal to find someone outside of our family gifted in such a way. We wish to help them, while also learning from them. That way they can better hone their gift, and we can learn more about listening to magic ourselves," Pansy said.
"Being able to listen to magic can be a very powerful and important tool and gift," Draco decided to further explain.
Pansy wanted to teach just for the reasons she said. Draco had a feeling saying more, like he did, would put Luna at ease. Sometimes people are more comfortable with help when they know what you want to gain from it and why. It can be terrifying to come across someone seemingly helping for just the sake of helping. It was even more terrifying if that person was a Slytherin.
Pansy gave a nod to his words. She realized what Draco was doing.
Luna was in thought. She was staring at nothing in particular with her large silver eyes. She had so many thoughts going through her head. She sighed. "I want to say yes. But it is a bit much to swallow at the moment. I will give you my official answer over summer. I need to… process," she said.
Pansy seemed a little deflated, but then seemed to perk back up. "Okay. I understand. It is a lot to learn something you believed true from childhood might not actually be what you thought. I do hope, if you decide to try and just train yourself, you will at least exchange notes with me on the matter," she said.
Luna was relieved hearing that. She gave a nod. "I will do that at the very least. I do like the idea of training. I just need some time to give an answer," she said.
"Well. This has been rather interesting as a train ride back goes, but I feel Pansy and I should make our way out. What do you want to do, Tracey?" Draco asked.
Tracey was in thought for a moment. She was weighing her options. What happened with Draco's father was already known to most. He was making peace with Harry, but if she stayed here after he left. It might seem like she was choosing a side. It could also mean Harry and Draco worked things out really well and thus no sides needed to be taken.
Tracey looked to Harry.
"It is up to you, Tracey. There are things we could talk about, but they could wait until summer and there might be more information by then," Harry said. He knew he was both helping and not helping her. If he had hinted there was something they needed to discuss, she would stay. They did have a lot to talk about, but part of him felt it was better to talk about it in the safety of the Rust District.
"I think I will accompany you two then," Tracey said as she looped an arm through Pansy's other side and grinned at her friend.
It might help Pansy to be with her. Pansy was acting fine with Luna's words, but Tracey knew better. Pansy could and would wait, but learning about Luna's gift was extremely important. It was a promise of achieving her family's goal. A goal they had for generations. Hearing a most likely yes, but no for now answer did not help.
With that, the three Slytherins left the compartment together.
[-] [-] [-]
As the train came to a stop, Luna looked like there was something she really wanted to say. "What is it, Luna?" Harry asked.
She blushed a little before she asked, "Could I… visit sometime over summer?"
Harry gave her a smile. "Of course, you can," he said to her as she smiled brightly. "Any of you can, if you want," he said as he turned to the others in their compartment.
"I'd like to come. I was hoping to get a chance over summer," Hermione said. She had… plans… she wanted to implement. Especially for Harry's birthday.
"Are you sure about that? Your parents would allow it?" Harry asked her in question.
"I'll figure something out," she said without elaborating.
Harry wasn't sure about it, but he would trust her on that. They were her parents. She would know what to do. It seemed she had a certain level of freedom during the summer holidays anyways, based on last summer.
"If I get the chance, I'll let you know via owl post. I would like to see the Rust District," Hannah said.
"Same for me pretty much. Though, my aunt might ask questions, so might not be the best idea for me," Susan said. She was intent on keeping Harry's secrets. Her aunt might do something if she learned about Harry's situation. She might not even have a choice in the matter, if she learned what Harry's living situation was like.
"Whatever the case. I hope everyone has a good summer break," Harry said to them as they got ready to disembark. He was rather eager to get home this year in particular. He had a lot he wanted to and needed to check up on. He really hoped there were leads on at least one of the plans.
"Do you think we'll have a better DADA professor next year?" Hannah asked as they left with their stuff.
Harry chuckled. "Not sure how high the bar is after what we've had. Part of me thinks it can only get better in that regard. Another part of me thinks there is always a way for things to get worse," he said.
"That doesn't sound like a fun way of looking at things," Hermione said with a frown.
"It is one of those hope for the best. Plan for the worst. Kind of things," Harry said.
Hermione couldn't really fault him there. She gave a smile to him before giving him a quick hug and making her way over to her parents. Hannah and Susan did the same.
Luna was blushing a little. Harry seemed to know what she was thinking. He gave the girl a quick hug. She felt really warm and grinned broadly after she returned it. "See you later, Luna," he said to her before going to his retrieval party.
"Later…" Luna said under her breath. She quickly went over to her dad now that she saw him waiting for her.
"Moon Flower!" Xenophilius said joyfully to his daughter.
"Daddy," Luna replied with a smile.
"Did you have a good year? I was worried when I got the news, but then I got news saying everything was good," he said to her.
"It was tough at first. A lot of people not ready for the truth. It was really good by the end, despite everything though," she said.
"Good to hear about the end of the year! Sadly… too few are open minded enough for the truth we share," he said as he shrunk her trunk and took her hand. It was odd realizing her small hand had grown over the school year.
Xenophilius was worried his little girl was actually growing up now. He just gave her a big smile and listened as she talked about the parts of the year not in her letters. He did notice there was less of the naive and wonderful daughter in her silver eyes. He figured it only made sense. Time was marching onward, even if he didn't want it too. The year had also been hard on her. It was only natural daughters grew up, even if their fathers wished they never would.
[-] [-] [-]
Harry was happy to see Lupin in his retrieval party, for lack of a better term. "I got something very interesting this year. It was given to me by a couple of well-known trouble making pranksters. It is also something you should be very familiar with… Moony," Harry said to him.
"Oh. I look forward to this," Remus said with a chuckle.
"Yes. It seems there was a reason they were always able to sneak around Hogwarts without getting caught," Harry said in a leading manner.
"Now you will have to tell me before we get back," Lupin said curiously.
"It is most peculiar. To think… the trusted Prefect of my father's friends helped create something perfect for managing mischief," Harry said grinning to him.
"Oh no… That thing still exists?" Lupin asked in surprise.
"Yep. It was snatched from Filch's office by the Weasley Twins," Harry said.
"And they gave it to you?" Lupin asked. Harry nodded. "Why?" he asked further.
Harry was solemn for a moment. "I do wish it was under better circumstances. It was their way of thanking me for saving their sister this year," he said.
"Then it was probably given to you in full faith. Something like that item would be more or less priceless for a couple of school boy pranksters. In the Weasley family though, nothing is more important than family," Remus said.
"I felt the same way. I can tell you details later, if you want to hear them," Harry said.
"I would like that. There is also much to show you regarding a certain project as well," Remus said.
"I really look forward to seeing it in person," Harry said eagerly.
"I suppose we can talk about your exploits over tea this evening then," Remus said. Harry nodded to that plan.
Remus didn't know it at that moment, but Harry's tale would be why he made a decision he was tossing around after getting the offer. It would be just for a year, but the students in the future would look back on it as one of their best years for Defense Against Dark Arts. It would be one of the most useful, if nothing else.
Chapter 40: Tonks, Weasley, and BlackNotes:(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter TextNymphadora Tonks, who preferred to be called Tonks, gave a sigh as she came to the door of her family's home. She had yet to find her own place. She was far too busy as an initiate to really take care of her own place. When she finally became a Junior Auror, the first rank in the Auror Corps, she would be busy but at least have time to get her own home. That would be when she moved out, even if her parents were more than fine with their daughter still living at home with them.
"Welcome home Nymphadora dear," her mother, Andromeda Tonks, said in greeting to her daughter.
Tonks gave a wave as she went straight to the shower. It really showed how tired she was that she didn't even put up her usual fuss at hearing her first name. After her shower, Tonks returned and happily sank into the sofa in their living room. She gave a hum of contentment. It was surprising how comfy the sofa was.
"Are you sure you're alright, honey?" her father, Ted Tonks, asked from his chair.
"Yes, Dad. I'm fine. It's just tiring is all," Tonks replied.
"As long as you're able to make it. If it ever gets to be too much, just let us know. You're more than qualified for several good jobs," her dad said.
"Safer jobs too," her mother added as she entered the room and sat down as well.
Tonks rolled her eyes. Her parents were supportive enough. They still didn't like how dangerous being an Auror was, even without a Dark Lord leading a band of skull masked enthusiasts muggle haters. "I know it can be dangerous, but I am being trained by the best," she still said in defense.
"Are you finally learning something new? Other than old cases?" her mother asked.
"I have been for a while now. Even when we were reviewing old cases, Moody still made sure I had training exercises and such. He didn't want me slacking off just because there were old court cases to study," Tonks said.
"I still think he went overboard on that lesson, even for him," her mother said.
"Look at it this way. Our daughter will probably have just as high of a conviction rate as Old Moody had. Everyone knows it was very rare for a dark wizard he brought in to get off," her dad said as Tonks nodded in agreement.
"Why didn't he just have you look at his own case files then?" her mother asked.
"He wanted me to see how not to do things and to emphasize how important all of the details were. How to avoid technicalities that could let someone off. How even the most closed book cases could still result in the guilty party walking free due to sloppy case prep by the Auror. I looked at his as well. He was unsurprisingly the harshest critic for his own cases. After looking through them again, he swore a case or two only resulted in a conviction because the whole Wizengamot was sorely wanting an early morning drink that day," Tonks said.
Her dad chuckled to that. It did seem like the kind of reasoning Old Moody would come up with after getting hyper focused on his old court appearances.
"Even though he is a great Auror, I swear he earns every letter of his nickname," her mother said while shaking her head.
"Maybe. But he is still the best mentor you could get," Tonks said smiling.
"I won't argue with you there. Maybe you'll be on the fast track through the ranks once you finish training. How much longer do you need to go?" her father asked.
"Given how intense Moody makes my training… I could easily become a Junior Auror by next spring," Tonks said. It was impressive how much progress she was making in her training. During their review exams, she saw how further along she was compared to the others who joined up at the same time.
"That's good to hear. Dangerous it may be. And I do wish you were looking for a safer job. I am still proud of you, Nymphadora," her mother said with a smile.
Tonks actually smiled to that. She was never one opposed to praise. She had always liked getting attention. Now, she was doing what she could to make sure it was the right kind of attention. Few would believe it, but she didn't really do much in the way of crazy hair styles now. She didn't even pretend to be high ranking people in the DMLE by looking like them for a laugh. Shocking it may be, but she was actually growing up and learning to adult.
"I'm proud of you too, dear. I can't wait to tell everyone at the office my daughter is an Auror," her dad said grinning.
"Supper is about ready everyone," her mother said after a few minutes and the family moved to their dining table.
[-] [-] [-]
Ginny gave a sigh as she laid on her bed. She wasn't sure what to think about everything. What happened at school was terrible. She was glad the twins were there for her afterwards. The rest of her family loved her, but they were more about pretending last year didn't really happen. She could see where they were coming from with this approach, but it kind of hurt in a way.
She felt like a bit of an outcast at the moment. Like she was unclean or something. Everyone but the twins were seemingly walking on egg shells around her. The twins seemed unsure how exactly to handle it, but they were doing more in that regard than the rest of the family Ginny felt.
Fred and George weren't out right ignoring what happened, but they only occasionally mentioned anything to do with it. That was kind of bizarre in a way for Ginny. It was odd having the twins be serious at moments, but Ginny like it. It warmed her heart a little, even though things were still tough.
Ginny wasn't possessed anymore, but she had nightmares where she randomly went back to being possessed and turned on her own family. She knew they were only bad dreams and it was probably a silly worry, but it was there. Despite what her family may want to think, Ginny was changed after all of that. It was a really strange change too.
Her first year education was a mess, but mostly there. She spent time reading through the books again to catch back up and reading notes Luna let her borrow. At the same time though, Ginny had some of the knowledge fifth year Riddle had. She shuddered at that. It was proof how deep the possession ran at the time. Despite the source, she could tell some of the knowledge would be handy to know.
Fortunately, most of the knowledge passed down to her wasn't of the dark arts nature. There was some of that, but the majority of what she knew was his school knowledge. It was also an expansion on what the classes taught. Since it was only partial knowledge, there were different difficulties she faced regarding it.
She knew fairly advanced magics now, but she didn't have the foundation to properly understand and utilize it. Perhaps this meant in the future she would be rather knowledgeable, but until then it would be strange experience for her. It would just be hovering there in her mind, almost teasing her, if that made any sense. Ginny now had some magical knowledge inside her head that was NEWT level, which showed Riddle was very advanced in more than just the dark arts, given it was his fifth year self who possessed her.
How did she know it was NEWT level stuff? Well, Percy was the answer there. Their parents were asking him about his classes and the things he talked about he had some difficulty on, she understood what it accomplished and needed to be successful. Ginny of course didn't say anything to the others. She was pretty sure if she started explaining NEWT level magic, her parents would decide she was corrupted or tainted after what happened.
They might even go so far as to see about getting her obliviated out of fear she wasn't there daughter anymore. Under usual circumstances Ginny wouldn't mind that. It would get her past what Riddle did to her, but she was very certain it would require a severe obliviation. Severe to the point she might be little more than a drooling mess afterwards. It was that deep inside her now. If by a miracle she wasn't a drooling mess, she for sure wouldn't be Ginny Weasley anymore.
Ultimately, Ginny hoped whatever she had done during her possession would stay to her nightmares. She really didn't want to have memories of her time under Riddle's influence suddenly return to her. Who knows what he did to or with her? She hoped it stayed forgotten and only came out in a jumbled nightmare mess from time to time.
"Ginny! You have a guest," her mother called up.
Ginny blinked to that. She hadn't been expecting anyone. She didn't think anyone would want to see her. She may have Luna's notes, but they were mailed to her. "Coming!" Ginny called down as she got up and left her room.
Mrs. Weasley left the room once her daughter entered.
"Ginny!" Luna said with a smile, once the girl came downstairs.
"Luna?!" Ginny asked in surprise.
"That's me. I haven't yet started calling myself Supreme Princess of the Snorlacks or anything like that," Luna replied with a big grin. She came over and gave Ginny a hug.
Ginny blinked to this and tried her best not to let her shock bring out tears. She didn't want a pity hug or something like that. She still returned the hug not to seem rude.
Luna hummed and said, "I can't believe I never did the hugging thing with friends before."
"Friends?" Ginny asked.
"Yes. I do still see you as a friend," Luna replied she then looked to Ginny in thought and asked, "Do you not want us to still be friends?"
Ginny gave a sniff and hugged Luna tightly. "I do! I was worried you wouldn't, after all of that," she said.
"Why did you think that?" Luna asked.
"After everything that happened?! After I ignored you… And was rude to you," Ginny said.
"Don't you worry about that. I know that wasn't you. I had worried at first, but I came to realize something else was going on. So. Yes. I do still see you as a friend," Luna said smiling again.
"Even after you got along well with the Hufflepuffs?" Ginny asked carefully.
"Yes. I do still think of you as a close friend. You just aren't the only friend I have now, but more friends are a good thing to have. Especially, my friend since so long ago," Luna said.
Ginny gave a sniff to that and hugged Luna tighter again. She did start to cry a little now. Luna just held their hug while Ginny cried out what she needed to cry out. It was a bit different for Luna to be the one offering comfort, but she was happy to do so for a good friend.
Mrs. Weasley gave a smile as she stopped listening from the kitchen. She had been worried about her daughter. She feared Ginny wouldn't want to be around anyone but her family and surprisingly in particular the twins. It was good to see Luna was there for Ginny and Ginny wanted her to be there.
Mrs. Weasley always thought Luna was a good girl, even with her very strange and bizarre beliefs. She had been worried at the time when Luna wasn't really mentioned much in Ginny's school letters. Now that she knew what happened, she wasn't surprised by the letters' contents anymore. They had seemed so… generic. There would only be enough details to show it wasn't just something copy and pasted from Ron's very short letters his first year.
[-] [-] [-]
"So how did you know something was off?" Ginny asked as she and Luna walked around outside together. Ginny needed the air and to get out of the house. She also needed to talk about this stuff and out here her mom wouldn't be around to try and hush it up after a few seconds. Her mom was very insistent they don't talk about it much when it was mentioned.
"It was something I only started to realize a little later. There was your behavior, but that wasn't really the big giveaway," Luna said.
"You mean how I was withdrawing from others? How I was mean to you?" Ginny asked.
"That was the behavior aspect. The big giveaway were the Wrackspurts oddly enough," Luna said.
"Really?" Ginny asked. She wasn't sure how that could be. She knew of Luna's beliefs about the small and most likely made up creatures. She usually found their discussions about them entertaining, even if she didn't believe they were real.
"Yep. Not in the way I thought about them though," Luna said. She then stopped and turned to face Ginny.
Ginny stopped in response. Luna looked excited as she grinned.
"I found out what they actually are. It was something Harry and the others mentioned at the end of the school year. I always thought about how Wrackspurts could tell you things if you listened. I recently learned that it was magic itself telling me things. It just took on the form of what I called Wrackspurts. I'm now learning how to sense and listen to magic properly. Magic is never really direct, but it will give you clues about things. Something being off last year was one of those things," Luna said.
"That is rather interesting. Is it how seers work?" Ginny asked.
"I guess it could be in a way. I'm still rather new to this stuff, even if I have been hearing the Wrackspurts for a good while now. It is something I will continually work on to better understand. Harry happened to know someone who could help me with that. They agreed to do so, but wish to keep it secret for now. I took some time to think it over but agreed to it earlier this summer," Luna said.
"That's good to hear then. You will have to tell me more once you understand more. I may be a Gryffindor, but I am a very curious Gryffindor," Ginny said with a smile.
"Naturally. I doubt we would have become friends if you didn't have curiosity and at least a somewhat open mind," Luna replied.
"So… How were things with your roommates?" Ginny asked in worry.
"They were pretty bad, but it got sorted out well before the end of the school year. There won't be problems there again I get the feeling. Though… It wasn't wholly negative. I guess," Luna said.
"What do you mean by that?" Ginny asked.
"It got me to start wondering about some things when it comes to myself," Luna said.
"Do you care to share?" Ginny asked curiously.
"Maybe another time. How are you doing?" Luna asked.
Ginny was surprised by that. Luna was usually very open about things. It must be something very personal, or maybe Luna didn't know if they could go straight back to how they were, even if she saw Ginny as a good friend. Ginny guessed that made sense.
She felt mixed about that. Part of her wanted to go right back to how they were. At the same time, part of her was glad they weren't. This showed that things had changed, but that didn't mean it had to be a bad change. In a strange way, Ginny felt they might eventually grow closer has friends since they were acknowledging the change.
"Okay, I guess. The twins have been surprisingly helpful. The rest of my family is being overly cautious for one reason or another," Ginny said.
"That doesn't sound too unexpected. The twins choosing to be helpful is a bit unexpected, but the rest isn't," Luna said. Luna then smiled and held Ginny's hand and said, "I will be here for you. No matter how different or changed things are. That's what friends do I've come to learn," Luna said.
Ginny gave a sniff to that as she gave a watery smile. "I don't know if I deserve it, but I am thankful," she said.
Luna shook her head. "It isn't about what you think you deserve or not. Friends are there for friends," Luna said.
Ginny gave her friend a tight hug. "I still don't think I deserve it though," she said.
"Then just do what only makes sense," Luna started.
"What would that be?" Ginny asked.
"If you must, just become a friend who deserves it in your own mind," Luna said.
Ginny shook her head. "It seems you have learned a lot this last year. I know you are in Ravenclaw, but friendship never really seemed like their thing," she said.
"You might be right. Just keep in mind my other friends are in Hufflepuff. They kind of rub off on you, but I don't see that being a bad thing," Luna said.
"I'm not about to complain there. It was a group from Hufflepuff who saved me. I just don't know what to do to show them my thanks," Ginny said.
"I'd say get to know them. They were Hufflepuffs, but they are Harry Potter, Hannah Abbot, and Susan Bones," Luna said. She then gave a hum and nod in thought. "There's also Myrtle too. She may be a ghost and not a Hufflepuff, but she was helpful," Luna said.
"That still boggles my mind. Moaning Myrtle was helpful. I guess I can start by not calling her Moaning Myrtle anymore. I'll start calling her Myrtle instead," Ginny said.
"I don't like labels myself. Myrtle is Myrtle. Harry is Harry. I'm Luna. Moaning Myrtle is just bad name. Loony Lovegood is just a bad name. The-Boy-Who-Lived may not be a bad name, but it is still just a label. None of those titles/names are who we really are," Luna said.
Ginny mulled those words over and gave a nod. "I'll do that. Thanks, Luna," she said.
"Happy to help," Luna replied.
Ginny gave a giggle. "You've been a big help. On top of everything else, you let me borrow your notes. I have fragments of the lessons from the year in my mind. Your notes have helped fill in the blanks there," Ginny said as they continued their walk. It did seem things were a bit more promising to the youngest Weasley.
[-] [-] [-]
Tonks took a sip of butterbeer as she reflected a little on her time in the Auror Training Corps. She did feel a little guilty that she had to sort of dance around the truth of the matter with her family. She wasn't lying when she talked about being ahead of others. She did feel it was a little unfair she got to have Moody as her mentor. It was more or less Moody's choice, but it did feel a little like she was getting special treatment. Fortunately, she decided to make sure to show she deserved it and most of those around her agreed she was doing just that.
She still wished she could tell her parents more, especially her mom. The looking over old court cases wasn't standard training. It wasn't even part of Moody's original training course. He still made sure she didn't fall behind while they did it. The truth was Tonks wished she could tell her mom what was really going on with it.
She ended up looking into old court cases because Madame Bones got interesting information from her beloved niece. Moody was the best for what Madam Bones decided to do in regards to the matter. Tonks just so happened to be Moody's trainee and got to go along with the ride. That wasn't really why Tonks wanted to tell her mom all about it though.
Moody and Tonks were looking into cases regarding Sirius Black. They finished their part of the investigation a while back. The results were Sirius never did have a trail. He could actually be innocent. They also found out he wasn't even mentioned in other trials for other Death Eaters, which put to rest some of Moody's worries about the situation.
Madame Bones was already taking the next steps regarding the situation. She had well respected and ranking Aurors officially looking into the matter. This would give enough reason and credibility to have an official trial through proper channels. If nothing too wild happened, Sirius Black could be a free man come early fall.
That would be something to celebrate, even in the Tonks Family. While her mother may have been kicked out of the Black Family because she married for love, Andromeda Tonks was fairly close to her cousin Sirius. She had been devastated and in disbelief he was accused of being responsible for the Potters' deaths and sent to Azkaban for life. She knew how close they were.
Sirius and James were brothers in all but blood and Sirius was as Anti-Black as a Black could be. He was in Gryffindor. He wasn't a fan of the Dark Arts. He actually had no problems with blood status and especially enjoyed being with muggle born witches. Sirius actually enjoyed hearing from muggle borns in general. He wasn't muggle crazed like Arthur Weasley, but he liked hearing about the muggle world from magicals born to it. Tonks' mother would be happy and excited to hear there was a good chance he was actually innocent… and that was a big reason why Tonks couldn't share the news with her mother.
The situation had to be handled carefully so real justice would prevail. If Andromeda Tonks started talking about Sirius possibly being innocent and never having a trail… well… certain individuals might move to ensure the mistake was never corrected. It would also look bad if someone related to Sirius Black somehow knew of these things before it was public knowledge. It didn't matter if Andromeda was kicked out of the family. It would still be bad if it was learned relatives, even ones banished from the family, were involved in bringing to light Sirius Black didn't have a trail. Many would screech corruption and such, because there was reason for Andromeda to have a vested interest in the matter and freeing Sirius.
It was kind of sickening how corruption was only screeched about when it wouldn't seemingly benefit certain individuals such as Lucius Malfoy. Sirius possibly being innocent and later freed would be disadvantageous for the Malfoy family and a boon to Andromeda. Sirius Black was still the heir apparent, if not Lord of the Black family. Should he still be confined to Azkaban and later die behind its bars, then it would be Draco Malfoy who inherited the title Lord Black once he was of age. Sirius Black being free meant he could change that around.
Sirius Black being free could result in a lot of things. He could end up fathering his own heir. He could bring Andromeda and Nymphadora back to the family and officially recognize the marriage of Ted and Andromeda. He could write his will to exclude the Malfoy family from getting anything. He could even, as he said he would before certain events happened, make it so Harry Potter became his heir should Sirius Black have no children of his own.
Tonks knew that stuff could come to pass. Moody made sure she understood to pay attention to this stuff because it could be vital to court prep and investigations. She didn't really care much for that stuff though. She just wanted her mother to be happy and to have more family.
There was also her shared sense of justice with both Moody and Madame Bones. Not that corrupt individuals would care, but Tonks wanted this resolved even if Sirius Black really was as guilty as everyone thought. That would mean closure at the very least and her mom could truly move on with her life.
Tonks finished her drink and stretched. She then got ready for bed. She would need to be ready for another busy day tomorrow. She was right when she told her parents she could be Junior Auror next Spring. It became a goal for her. She had actually thought of her precious first years. "They'll be starting their third year soon enough, " she thought to herself. It was crazy how fast they were growing up. She would make sure she did them proud and became a Junior Auror quickly. That way they could be proud to know their wonderful, amazing, beautiful, and lovely RA became an awesome Junior Auror before the usual expected time period. She grinned to herself. She probably had to thank her firsties for more of her drive than she knew. She didn't really see that as a bad thing though.
[-] [-] [-]
Somewhere in a place called the Rust District there were a series of pops that could be heard suddenly. Usually House Elf Apparition was silent, but not with a group this big. There were a series of chain apparitions for some of the elves. The group was composed of old and young elves along with both males and females.
The Elf in the front of the group was wearing an odd assortment of clothes. He had a sock that was old but cleaned to be almost as good as new and on the opposite foot there was a dress sock. He also had on a hat and an old tunic that would soon be replaced once they decided on a proper elf dress code. He looked around the area and gave a nod.
"Wes is here! Rusty District be new homes for us," Dobby said to the others.
An older elf who was dignified in age despite being freed for a while came up next to him and took a deep breath. "This be goods place. Just like magics say! Brightest Futures here. The magic is strong and ancient. We not needs too many elf friend bonds for it to be stables for elves. This be where many happenings start," he said as more of the elves took in their new surroundings.
"Dobby still be Elf Friending Great Harry Potter sirs!" Dobby said excitedly and determined.
The older elf nodded to Dobby. "Dobby be luckys magics does wants him elf friending Harry Potter sirs. Yous will become great model of elfs to have such a friend," the older one said. Dobby nodded in seriousness to his words. The older elf was named Tibbles.
Tibbles was a well-respected House Elf and many would even go so far as to call him a House Elf Sage. He was a freed elf for a while now, but that was because his family died out because of bad wizards during Grindelwald's time. Many knew he could have easily found a new and respectful family, but he spoke of how magic told him otherwise. Told him to wait. He found a place of power where he meditated a good bit and conserved his magic for the right time.
It was because of this he was never seen as a disappointment by other house elves for refusing a new family. He was the first House Elf Dobby sought out. Tibbles helped Dobby find others for the new community.
"Dobby happy to hear that, Tibbles. We still have a few who are more than happy to be elf friends. Harry Potter sirs is a given. There also be his Grangy and his LuLo too," Dobby said.
"Oooo!" one of the female elves started happily. "There be young ones here toos!" she said with a big grin. A few others talked excitedly about that.
Another elf gave a nod as he took in the air and magics of the area as well. He was a little younger than Dobby and named Frickle. He was freed because the last family he served had a werewolf. He looked over the afflicted family member, but soon they were both kicked out due to embarrassment of the family for having a werewolf. He did what he could to watch over the werewolf afterwards. Sadly, the werewolf eventually took her own life when Greyback tried to force her into joining his 'pack'. This is one reason why he was sought out by Dobby and why he nodded as he surveyed the area.
"There be plenty of wolfymans and wolfywomans here too. Young wolfys too. Elves be good at helpings them," Frickle said. Several of the other house elves talked among themselves in agreement.
Dobby had done more than Harry expected in his assignment. Dobby found a lot of freed elves who were still great house elves. Few of them needed time to think first and those who did merely listened to magic to find their answer. Most agreed rather readily and swore they would do House Elves proud in the new home. A couple, like Tibbles, grinned and grabbed Dobby's shoulder before nodding without even hearing what he had to say. Dobby was impressed by these elves. They were masters at listening to magic, even among House Elves. There was no other reason they would reply so quickly.
"What do wes do about non-magey folks?" one asked.
"Theys knows about this places mostly. Theys stays separates though. Harry Potter Sirs already got Boss Jett to agree to this," Dobby said.
"Theys not stay separates for all ways," Tibbles started. He stood in front of all of the Elves as they paid close attention to his words. "Magics told me greatness be happenings here. This be place were eventually magics and non-mageys works together. Theys builds great community! Theys bring about changes to whole magic world in times. We be honored elves to helps them," Tibbles said.
There were many excited words exchanged between the many elves in response to that.
"Let's be goings then! Elves have wonderful works to do!" Dobby said grinning brightly and taking the lead.
The elves as a group started making their way through the area. Many waved to the curious onlookers they saw during their walk. Some snapped their fingers to fix something they noticed on the way and to show they were ready to help.
There were actually a number of curious magical children happily waving and following the elves around. They had never seen so many house elves in one place before like this. Some of them were seeing the magical beings for their first time. Some adults watching the procession of elves were in awe of what they were seeing. Many realized just how important this refuge would be and once again vowed to do their part to assure it thrived.
Many realized History was being written in this place at this time. Few realized just how much of History was being written though. In the future if Binns didn't cover this, the Headmaster or Headmistress of Hogwarts would have no choice but to exorcise him, or at the very least fire him.
It was going to be the start of something new. The House Elves were here to help and oversee that. In time, some might even come to really see and appreciate the Elf Friend Ritual. It could even be a change to how House Elves and magicals existed together.