Chapter 41: A Lunatastic SummerNotes:(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text"What have you found?" Harry asked once he was alone with the Goldsmith.
The Goldsmith looked a little confused as he handed over a stack of notes. "Something fishy was happening on this job. Luckily, I had concerns when you first handed me that coin. I had a strange sense of dejvu. I could tell I had seen them before somewhere, but wasn't sure why I felt that way," he said.
Harry nodded in thought and frowned. "I'm sorry about that. I should have better prepared you for this. I kind of thought this could happen, but I wasn't as cautious about it as I should have been. I didn't know what I do now, back then either," he said.
"No worries. It was a very concerning job in the first place and you did warn me it would be. Luckily, I had all of the people involved take notes on small note pads. I copied over the notes myself," the Goldsmith said.
Harry looked at the notes again. "I'm a bit surprised you were able to get this method to work," Harry said to him.
"One thing the places involved had in common was a 'special' security team. They handled all issues no matter what they were. They even had a strange work uniform. It was a dark purple robe with a badge of sorts showing that insignia," he said as he pointed to a staff and wand crossing each other inside a circle.
Harry nodded in thought as he looked at it. It made sense in a way. When you can just memory charm away the problem, why not abuse that method? The Ministry itself did so. They had a whole department just for that. It was their go-to method for all issues regarding muggles.
However, memory charms weren't perfect. Magicals also weren't familiar with muggle methods for gathering intel. Given the type of magicals involved in this, there was no way they would dare give consideration to such things. They would see learning muggle methods for anything as an offense to their very soul. There was some humor to the irony these "esteemed" individuals used muggle markets to increase their wealth.
"How did you figure this out?" Harry asked out of curiosity.
The Goldsmith grinned. "That was easy. After the first couple of odd occurrences, I went to the places in question myself and observed as I attended to other business," he said.
Harry looked up from the notes in his hand. "This is very helpful. I have some different people I can hand it off to now. They need to get involved from this point forward. Will you cooperate with them, if they need it? I'll make sure they know to keep all of those involved anonymous to avoid problems," Harry said.
"I will. The people I used for this job will do the same. You mentioned there would be others getting involved officially at one point. They don't like how things seem to be just out of grasp concerning this matter. They want to help bring these people down. Whoever they are. That isn't even taking into account this was a request from a Street Knight," he said before pausing for a moment.
A different thought came to his mind. "Just make sure we will know who they are without it being overly obvious. And they know how to handle things properly. If they're in any way similar to this 'special security team'… I'm not sure they know much about the ways of subtly," the Goldsmith said with a shake of his head.
He was glad he was able to come up with an easy method to deal with the issues they had. It was still rather sad they worked so well. He still had enough challenge to satisfy his thirst for adventure, since he was mostly retired from such a lifestyle. He preferred making beautiful designs with jewelry and the delicate work that went into such craftmanship.
Harry gave a chuckle. "I'll be more than sure of that," he said to the Goldsmith.
Harry found some irony here as well. He was very sure when it came to magical means of subtly these people were probably equal to the best Aurors, maybe even better in some cases. However, when faced with methods you have no knowledge of, you will come off as foolish no matter how competent you otherwise might be.
"That will be all for now, Goldsmith. I will handle the payments for those you got help from for this request," Harry said.
"It was a pleasure doing business with you, Little Boss," the Goldsmith said with a chuckle.
Harry shook his head and rolled his eyes at the nickname. He did grin though.
"As for me… Just be sure to keep my shop in mind whenever you need something for a special lady in your life," the jeweler said with a wink.
Harry almost blushed as he left.
Almost…
[-] [-] [-]
Luna Lovegood was far more excited than she usually was, even when going on a creature hunt. Admittedly, she would probably be more excited if they ever found legitimate proof of the Crumple Horned Snorkack, but that only made sense.
Still, Luna was very excited.
She was going to be staying a while in the Rust District. She would be seeing Davey again. She would also see all of the house elves Harry mentioned in his letters. More than that, she would be seeing Harry again!
She was a little conflicted there.
Her heart beat so much faster and she felt so nice and warm when she thought about Harry. Sadly, he was with Hermione. Luna's heart still didn't listen to her when she told it to stop getting all fluttery when it came to Harry. It probably didn't help matters she liked how she felt during those moments.
The fact Hermione wouldn't be there during this trip didn't help matters either. Luna really liked the idea of spending time with Harry alone. She loved her friends, which included Hermione, but there was something different about being with Harry alone. It was dangerous for Luna's heart, because she wouldn't have the constant reminder Harry and Hermione were together. She might get thoughts and such.
Despite all of that, she was looking forward to her visit. "I'll just have to trust in the Wrackspurts and magic, " Luna thought to herself.
She knew what was really happening in that regard. She had been speaking with Pansy about improving her magic listening. Luna still thought of what she saw as Wrackspurts. It wasn't easy getting used to the truth. Pansy also told her it could be possible she would always see magic's communication as Wrackspurts.
Luna's case was different than Pansy's case of listening to magic. They were both thinking so long as Luna knew it was magic and not some kind of curious magic creature, she would be fine. It could be one day Luna got to the point she no longer saw Wrackspurts. That would probably be once she was a lot more experienced in listening though.
There was a part of Luna that didn't want to stop seeing the Wrackspurts. She knew she was being silly with her reason for why she wanted to see them. It was because she had been lonely many times, even with Ginny as a friend. The Wrackspurts were always there. Ginny was a good friend to her while they were growing up, but Ginny was Luna's only friend back then and she was an only child. It was lonely when Ginny wasn't around.
Things were really bad once Luna's mother died when it came to loneliness. It was only a couple of years before she went to Hogwarts, but they were very hard for her. Her dad was lost to his own grief and locked himself away in the basement where he printed The Quibbler. Luna felt excessively lonely most of those days. Seeing the Wrackspurts and listening to them helped her a lot.
"Perhaps the day I stop seeing them will mean I no longer feel lonely. At the very least, it might mean I am finally over that period of my life," Luna thought again. She was doing a lot better, but some things still needed time.
"Are you ready, my Little Moonflower?" Mr. Lovegood asked his daughter.
Luna nodded and replied, "I am, daddy."
"Well then. Take my hand and we'll be off," he said as he shrunk her trunk.
Luna took in a deep breath and let it out as she grabbed her dad's hand. With a sudden pop sound, they were soon in a diner. Luna blinked to regain her bearings and soon smiled brightly. All of her silly worries instantly melted away once she saw Harry, Davey, and Mr. Lupin waiting.
"Remus! I didn't expect you to be here," Xenophilius said with a smile.
"We figured you might feel better seeing someone you knew. It is good to see you again, Xenophilius," Remus greeted in return.
"Luna! It is good to see you again," Davey greeted cheerful as the two hugged.
"I'm happy to meet you again as well," Luna said smiling.
She then turned to Harry and grinned even brighter. "Hello, Harry," she said a little shily as her cheeks blushed.
Harry gave her a tight hug and smiled as he said, "Hello, Luna. It is great to see you already."
Luna nodded and smiled to that as she took in all she could from their hug. Harry then broke the hug and greeted Mr. Lovegood.
"It is good to meet you, Harry Potter. Luna said a lot about you. I'm glad she has a good friend such as you there for her," Luna's dad said with a soft smile.
"She's a great friend to have," Harry replied.
"I was a bit worried how her first year at Hogwarts would go, but with all that happened, she was still very excited about it and happy to have made more friends. I hope you will keep being there for her again this year," Mr. Lovegood said.
Harry smiled as he said, "Hufflepuffs are always there for their friends. It doesn't matter what house they're in."
Xenophilius nodded to that and smiled again. "Well. I'm sure you both are eager to enjoy your time together. I'll get out of your hair now," he said. With one last good bye to his daughter, Mr. Lovegood apparated away.
"Let's get going, shall we?" Remus started as the kids followed him out of the diner.
[-] [-] [-]
Luna was in awe as she looked around while they walked through the Rust District. The place had always been uniquely charming to her, but now it was different. It still had that Rust District look, but it seemed more… upkept. She wasn't sure how to describe it.
"Is all of this because of the house elves?" she couldn't help but ask.
Remus gave a chuckle as he said, "They made quite the impression when they first arrived."
"They marched right through the streets like a parade. They waved and snapped their fingers. It was really amazing," Harry added excitedly.
"I wish I could have seen that," Luna said more to herself.
"They are very helpful little guys. I found it hard to believe when Harry talked about how some of them were treated," Davey said. "They're just so amazing!"
"It isn't a clear-cut situation," Remus said. "Some are treated badly, but most of them are seen as family, even if they mostly stay out of the way."
"Are they really ignored?" Davey asked.
"Yes, but that is kind of how they want it themselves," Harry said.
"They always say a good house elf is rarely seen or even noticed. It was a bit surprising that was the case even at Hogwarts," Remus said.
"Hogwarts has some?" Davey asked.
"They have a massive force of them. Yet, you have to really seek them out to find them… Or just go to the Kitchens," Luna answered with a smile. She had made that trip a few times during her first year at Hogwarts. It was something else seeing them work in the kitchens and eating there instead of in the Great Hall.
"And they mostly stay unnoticed," Davey repeated in awe.
"Yep," Luna replied.
Soon they were at Harry and Davey's place. Davey and Luna would be sharing a room during her stay this time. Luna was perfectly fine with that. She always wanted a big sister she could stay with and Davey was very much that to her, even with the short time they had together.
"You two can go now. Be back by six," Davey said once they dropped off Luna's stuff. She looked to Remus and asked, "Will you be joining us for supper tonight?"
Remus shook his head and smiled. "I have plans already," he said.
"Thanks again for the help, Mr. Lupin. It really did put daddy's mind at ease seeing you there," Luna said before she and Harry left.
[-] [-] [-]
"Merlin's Beard!" Luna cried out with a frown.
Harry couldn't help but chuckle to that from next to her. He was used to wizard phrases, but he still found them funny at times. "You did pretty good," he said.
"But I was hoping for a high score…" Luna pouted a little. Harry placed an arm around her and lightly squeezed her shoulder. This caused her to feel warm inside and blush cutely at the contact.
"Why don't we try some other games now," he suggested to her with a damnable charming smile. Luna felt her heart getting too far into dangerous territory as she looked to him and smiled back. She was sure it looked goofy, but she couldn't help it. She wasn't at Harry tier smiling levels.
Luna was surprised Harry wasn't seen as having the best smile in Hufflepuff. Cedric was nice and had a good smile too, but Harry was better. It was rather obvious. She wanted to match it and even dared to think about things like kissing.
"Sounds good!" Luna suddenly said a little higher than necessary as she quickly looked around. They were visiting the arcade at the moment.
She really loved the arcade. All of the fun blinking lights and the many 'video games' as they were called. The happy sounds some of the other games made from time to time. It was amazing! Magic had to be able to do something similar. Maybe even better in some cases.
There were spells and enchantments that could alter the senses and have you see things. Maybe they could find a way to use altered memories to provide a setting. Maybe you could have tracks you ran across and a score keeping ward stone. There had to be something! Magic was magic!
Luna was lost in her own thoughts. Harry stood in front of her and asked, "What are you thinking about?"
Luna blinked and noticed his dream like vivid green eyes. She just took him in for a moment and let out an almost dreamy sigh. She then blushed as she cutely looked to the side.
Harry thought it too unfair how cute she could be. He had come to really like her looks. Her beautiful fair skin. Her long dirty blonde hair. It was only a thousand times more charming since she started to care for it after Christmas. He also loved her large and dreamy silver eyes. He found it really cute when she placed her wand behind her left ear at Hogwarts from time to time.
"I was just thinking there had to be a way magic could make arcades of some kind," she started. She then looked to him properly. "Magic needs to have more fun to it! That's why I like Charms the most. Not just because of how great Professor Flitwick is at teaching and his love for the subject. Its where you find the fun of magic."
"A magic arcade? That would be pretty cool. I wonder if active memories could be used…" Harry said in thought of his own. He was liking this idea of hers. That was one of the great things about Luna. Some would say her ideas and beliefs were silly and too far out there. But that meant she just came up with some of the most incredible things.
"That's one of the things I was thinking!" Luna said excitedly.
They sat down together and got some drinks and snacks as they talked about how to make a magical arcade. One of the ideas they came up with would be a stationary broom flight game. They were sure you could possibly have a way to keep the brooms mostly still while hoovering in a small enclosed space. You could have different obstacles pop up to dodge. You could probably even find a way to simulate different weather conditions and flight altitudes.
They did have other ideas as well. A couple even really got them laughing together. Luna then found herself leaning in closer to Harry and her heart beating faster again. She looked to him and he was looking back. She even came dangerously close to trying for a kiss!
"He's with Hermione! " she mentally scolded herself as Harry seemed to be of the same kissing mind. A nearby buzzer went off. Luna was grateful for the distraction. She quickly looked to it. Someone just scored a high score on the ball throwing game.
"I want to try that one!" she said suddenly as she got up. She was both relieved and extremely disappointed in herself. Luckily, the almost kiss was averted… Sadly, the almost kiss was averted.
Harry had to blink at the sudden change. He had to clear his head. He was happily getting caught up in the moment. He thought Luna was as well. He needed to rethink things. Maybe he was pushing things to quickly, even if Hermione had already told him she was happy with Luna being Lady Peverell. She even encouraged him to use Luna's summer visit to grow closer to her. She was doing so unironically as well.
Harry instead decided to just enjoy the time with Luna and stop thinking too much about such things at the moment. Luna was still a lot of fun. He wanted her to have an amazing summer in the Rust District. She would be staying for a good while after all.
She would be helping with the Elf Friend Ritual. It was something she was very excited about seeing and participating in. She even promised to write an article about it in her dad's paper. She felt they should also start writing those articles in The Quibbler. She doubted The Daily Prophet would dare write it, even if they knew about it.
Harry smiled as he came over and stood next to her. "Let's see how you good you are. Can you beat me? Come close at least?" he asked with a teasing grin.
"Teach me how it works first. Then I won't try to distract you too much…" she said giving him a teasing smile and a wink as she giggled a little loudly. She had no idea where that came from but she liked it. She also liked how it seemed to affect Harry.
Harry almost blushed at the surprise attack from her. "Damn. She could distract me very well if she wanted, " he thought before showing her how the game worked.
[-] [-] [-]
Luna ended up losing. She wasn't upset though. She claimed he sent a bunch nargles to attack while he was 'teaching' her. Luna told herself that was why she blushed too much and only heard half of what he said. She demanded he use his tickets to get her something.
She picked out a very odd looking purple stuffed animal. She said it might have been from a muggle who saw a snorkack. The stuffed animal was really odd looking, but also really cute to her at least. It seemed others agreed as well, since there was only one more left on its shelf at the prize counter.
Luna couldn't help but blush happily as she cuddled with it in her night gown on her bed in Davey's room. She was really happy about the day, even if it had been dangerous for her heart. The stuffed animal also gave her a very wonderful warm and fuzzy feeling.
"Did Harry win that for you?" Davey asked as she combed Luna's damp hair after a shower.
Luna nodded as she smiled. "The arcade was a lot of fun. We played that ball toss game. I claimed he distracted me while he was teaching me how to play," she said.
Davey chuckled. "It seems you aren't too upset," she said.
Luna grinned brightly as she hugged the stuffed snorkack. "I wasn't. I've never had anyone get something for me like this. It feels very warm," she said quietly mostly to herself.
Davey gave Luna a tight hug. "You really can be very cute. I wish I had a little sister like you," she said.
Luna felt warm hearing that. "I wish I had an older sister like you," she replied.
"At least we can be such people for each other now. That's one of the great things about the Rust District and The Street Knights," Davey said.
"I like that. I feel I understand what Harry means when he talks about family, even if not by blood," Luna said.
"There we go now. Finished," Davey said after a moment.
"Thanks," Luna said.
The two then went to bed that night.
[-] [-] [-]
"Wow…" Luna said as she walked through the magical part of the district with Harry, Mr. Lupin and Mr. Timmins.
"I agree with that. I've visited this place plenty already, but it is still amazing," Harry said.
"It is with a lot of thanks to you, Harry," Mr. Timmins said.
"I don't see how. I haven't done much. You two and Dobby have," he said.
"But it was all your idea. You even got permission for it. There is also the help you have provided financially as well. That was a much needed start up fund," Remus said.
"I just wanted to do all I could. Put my family's money to good use, even if there are some limits currently. The Rust District did a whole lot for me. When I saw a way to make something similar for the magical world. I had to do it," Harry said.
He waved to a few kids who were happily playing together as they waved to him. A couple of them were muggle kids from the main part of the district, so they knew who he was. The magical kids knew him as The-Boy-Who-Lived, but slowly started to learn who Harry Potter, the Street Knight, was instead. Harry was more than fine with that. He earned his title as a Street Knight.
"And that is why you have done so much. You've given a lot of us a place to stay. And magic makes a lot possible and rather quickly. Too many people forget werewolves are full fledged and magically adept witches and wizards as well," Mr. Timmins said as he waved at some people walking by.
"Plenty of muggleborns were eager to come as well. They liked the idea of a fresh start. They also don't have as much of a worry about werewolves either. They know the dangers, but they better appreciate the dangers of magic in general. This means they don't hold the prejudices some do in the magical world," Mr. Timmins added.
"They also know how rough things can be in the magical world. They too have it tough in a different way. They find themselves growing further and further away from the world they were first born into and their families there. Regrettably, they also find themselves not fully fitting in with the new world they have to join many times," Remus said.
"It still is hard for me to fully get that just yet, when I actually stand here. I do have worries about it all at times," Harry said as he looked the place over.
He worried things could get out of hand in a very bad way, even with all they were doing to make sure that doesn't happen. He feared what would happen if the wrong people found out about it too soon. He even feared what would happen if the right people found out too soon.
Luna sensed Harry's concern and grabbed his arm. She held him close like that and smiled as she said, "You are doing a lot of good. I also love that I get to see a magical community being born! Something like this hasn't happened in centuries!"
Harry smiled back to her. He felt his worries shrinking. Or maybe his determination growing thanks to her. The two of them shared a brief moment before they reached their destination.
"Great Master Harry Potter sirs!" Dobby shouted cheerfully in greeting as he bounced to meet them. "You brought your Lulo too!" he said smiling brightly at Luna.
Luna couldn't help but blush brightly hearing that. "His Lulo… " she thought dreamily. She really liked how that sounded, especially with the things it made her feel. She was ignoring how dangerous this was for her heart. She wasn't even thinking about Hermione at the moment.
Harry gave a slightly nervous look to that. Dobby's phrasing was odd like him at times. He wasn't upset by it though. He soon refocused. "She really wanted to see and talk to all of you house elves," he said.
Luna nodded quickly. "I've always found house elves wonderful and very interesting," she said.
"Wes be more than happys! Yous be Elf Friend too, yes?" a female house elf nearby named Minty asked. She had mint green hair. It was interesting to see how house elves actually had very colorful hair. They usually had their magic change it to something they deemed more appropriate for hard working house elves. The ones here weren't as worried about that, especially since the young ones loved it.
"I will be!" Luna said excitedly as she decided to talk to the female house elf and the others with her. They were doing some cleaning together in a group. It would also give Harry, Mr. Lupin and Mr. Timmins some time to talk business with Dobby and Tibbles.
"Dobby shows you to Tibbles," the excitable House Elf said as he grabbed Harry's hand. He seemed to almost drag Harry along behind him.
[-] [-] [-]
"Fours be bests. Threes works… But fours be bestest! Less strain on source. Not too many elf bounds yet either. More growths then. More House Elves too in futures," Tibbles said after some thought on their current topic.
Dobby nodded. "Manys be wanting elf childrens in times. Theys wants to bring new lifes to this world and this place," he explained further.
"We have three already…" Harry said out loud in thought. He liked the idea of the house elves having children and belonging even more to the growing community. He looked to Remus first.
"As much as I would love such an honor, I feel Mr. Timmins is the better choice. Maybe in the future I can also be an elf friend," he said.
"Why is that?" Harry asked.
Remus smiled as he said, "I was waiting for the right moment to tell you. Now seems to be that moment. We can discuss it more at supper tonight. I'm sure Luna will want to hear all about it as well. I'll actually be at Hogwarts this year. Headmaster Dumbledore was more than happy to have me take up the position of Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor."
"That's great!" Harry said happily. He already knew Professor Lupin would be fantastic as a professor. He knew his stuff. He knew how to explain things to others and teach them.
"I'm glad you're happy too. It will just be for the one year though. I feel I shouldn't stay away from here for too long yet," Remus said.
Mr. Timmins sighed to that. "I wish you could stay there longer, but I think you're right about that. I can tell you'll be good. Hogwarts really needs that right now," he said.
Harry nodded in agreement. "I would love to have a DADA professor stay longer than a year. But… this place is very important. You are really needed here," he said.
"Still. I will be there for a year. I will do what I can during that time. Luckily, Headmaster Dumbledore already set up the right precautions for me at Hogwarts. I'm hoping things will go well with Professor Snape. We didn't see eye-to-eye back when we were students," he said.
Harry was in thought. "If there is anything I can do to help there… let me know," he said.
"What do you think you could do?" Remus couldn't help but ask.
Harry shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know. Maybe something though. I've been meeting with him at the end of each year. I learned what he did during the last war. I've been telling him the details of everything I end up having to go through. Dumbledore doesn't fully share them, even with Professor Snape. I'm not saying we're good friends or anything, but we seem to get along well enough," he said.
"I do find that surprising. I figured he would only be able to see James in you. The two of them hated each other just as much as the other. Professor Snape was a frequent target back then. Partly because he usually gave as good as he got," Remus said.
"They probably also saw each other as rivals for my mom…" Harry admitted even if it was embarrassing.
"You even know that?!" Remus asked in shock.
Harry nodded. "Let's not discuss that too much though. It feels really weird," he said.
"Too right you are," Mr. Timmins couldn't help but interject. No one wanted to think too much on their parents' boy or girl troubles back in school.
Harry turned to him. "I think you would be a good choice as well," he said.
Mr. Timmins then asked Tibbles, "What do you think?"
"Yous be good. They respects you lots too. They knows you well. Theys be happy," the house elf sage said with a nod.
"Theys like how yous be theres for wifey and kids. Too many grows aparts when wolfymans and womans get involved," Dobby added.
"Then I would be honored to live as an Elf Friend," Mr. Timmins said with a nod of respect to them.
He knew they were very important here. He would easily say Tibbles and Dobby were his and Remus' elf counterparts for the community. He would already see they will be very important for the future too.
[-] [-] [-]
Harry and Luna were sitting next to each other on the couch after another day together. It was a bit tense, and Harry didn't truly understand why. Luna did though. She was alone with Harry and she was being very friendly with him. She even flirted a lot, in her own way. She suddenly felt like she was doing something very wrong again.
She had been going through moments like this the whole time during her stay. She would drop her guard and things between her and Harry got really dangerous for her heart. She loved it so much too and wanted more of it!
Then she would remember at random he was with Hermione. It wasn't always like this when they were together and things got really comfortable between them. That had been the case plenty though. That made it even worse.
Luna frequently found herself wanting so much more with Harry. She loved the moments they shared alone. She respected and really liked Hermione, but she also wished it wasn't an issue. She really wanted to give-in to these feelings. She wanted to fully see them through. She was surprised she had changed so much. She used to just be happy having Ginny as a friend. She thought more friends were beyond her, and then she got that while at Hogwarts.
Now, she wanted more in her life. She wanted to stop worrying about such silly things as what she was allowed or not in her life. She wanted to laugh more with Harry. She wanted to talk more with him. She wanted to be with Harry as Harry instead of as part of the group. They had even shared ideas about things in the magical world and that really made her happy.
There was also the fact he was really handsome and she had started taking notice of boys… of Harry this last year. Since she was getting better at the listening to magic thing, the wrackspurts were whispering to her even louder regarding Harry.
Harry looked to Luna sitting next to him. She was on his mind even more lately. He was surprised no one else seemed to realize just how pretty and cute she was. He also really liked the hairstyle she currently sported. It was something he never thought he would see outside of Tonks and her many hair experiments. The look suited Luna though.
Her dirty blonde hair was very long. She curiously asked one of the house elves to give her this hairstyle wondering what it would be like. Her hair was currently styled into two long ponytails with one on each side of her head. She called this style twin-tails.
It was something that many would think ridiculous. Harry found it really cute. He felt it was very much a Luna kind of hairstyle. It was surely a hairstyle only magic could accomplish without it being a complete mess.
Harry didn't like the way things seemed currently though. "Is something bothering you? Luna?" he asked.
Luna seemed surprised as she asked, "What do you mean?"
"It just seems like there is a bit of a distance between us at times. I feel we've gotten closer being alone like this. I also thought you were enjoying it as well. At times though, you seem to… pull back. So, to speak," he said.
Luna sighed as she listened to magic here. It was telling her to be truthful and say it all. She wasn't sure why or if that was a good idea, but magic was telling her it was. She would put her trust in it.
"I've loved this visit! I've loved it more than even the hunts I went on with family before my mom died. I feel I've enjoyed it too much. More than just friends would. My heart wants to go further. My magic wants to go further. I want to go further," she said looking to Harry seriously.
"But you're with Hermione. I don't want to upset her. I really like her too… Even though I want this more. It is confusing. I don't know what to do," Luna admitted with a frown.
If she wasn't so serious about this, Harry would find her really cute at the moment. He nodded to himself. He was getting a hunch again. Maybe he should ask about listening to magic as well.
"I trust you, Luna. I trust you greatly. Hermione does as well. She's admitted to really growing close to you during last year. She really enjoyed Christmas break with you," he started.
"That makes things tougher," Luna muttered to herself. She was holding on tight to the stuffed snorkack. She even buried her face in it for a moment to hide.
"That's why I'm going to tell you something very important. I'm not sure if you want to take a vow to help you keep it secret. I still need to learn more about them. I really do trust you though," Harry started.
Luna looked up to him and raised her wand. She then took a vow, which surprised Harry. "When done right, vows help both involved," she said once the magic took hold.
"I've learned that much. Just need to better understand how to word them and such," Harry admitted.
"So, what is it? Friends should trust each other greatly," Luna said in determination. She even put her stuffed animal to the side. She looked to Harry intently.
"This is something Hermione knows and has come to terms with already. It isn't something to worry about keeping from her. She was a little disappointed, but she has come to accept it. The thing is Luna. I'm heir to two houses... Maybe even three," Harry started.
"You need more than one wife!" she said quickly. There was a lot of hope and excitement underlying her voice. She wasn't saying they would go that far, but she could and would want to see if they did. Her heart was leaping with so much more joy than she thought it would be hearing this.
"Yeah…" Harry said surprise she figured it out already. "The second house I'm heir to is House Peverell."
"The three brothers from the tale of the Deathly Hallows?!" she asked in excitement.
"Deathly Hallows?" Harry asked.
"That's what dad and some others call it. The unbeatable wand. The stone of resurrection. And the cloak… The cloak," Luna said. Her silver eyes grew wide.
"Your cloak…" she added almost breathlessly. She learned about it, even if it wasn't something Harry used much.
"Yep. Hermione explained that to me when I first told her. She didn't mention this Deathly Hallows thing though," Harry said.
"Not everyone believes in them, but some magicals do. My dad does. There are others as well. It has been said even Dumbledore believes in them. He looked into them when he was younger. He was well known for his curiosity about old wizard folklore," Luna said.
"What is so special about them?" Harry asked.
"It is said, by those who believe, if you come to possess all three, you become the Master of Death," Luna said.
"I'm not sure I like the sound of that," Harry said in worry.
"It isn't something you should be eager to obtain. Dumbledore was into all kinds of tales in his youth and it was all out of academic curiosity. He says so at least. He hasn't really done anything to suggest otherwise though," Luna said.
"I still don't like it. I think I'll just make sure never to lose my family's cloak. I'm not about to go and search for such a title," Harry said.
"I'm a bit surprised you didn't know about this from the knowledge you gained through your possession by Myrtle," Luna said.
"She did spend a lot of time in the school's library. This doesn't sound like something one would find there. It could even be such material was removed from the library, supposedly for student safety reasons. She witnessed a number of books being removed for such claims during her time. Some were moved to the restricted section for that same reason alone," Harry said.
Luna nodded in thought. She seemed to decide something and wanted to lighten the mood. She smiled a little mysteriously as she stood up. Harry looked to her and was surprised when Luna deposited herself in his lap.
"Luna?" he asked in surprise.
She wiggled her butt a little to get comfortable and smiled as she said to him. "Since you aren't exclusive, as they say, that means I can do this kind of thing. You're not upset by it are you?" she asked as she tilted her head and gave him a cute pout.
Harry blushed and sighed. He gave a smile and wrapped his arms around her. Luna was blushing furiously now as she turned to look away. "I did tell you about my situation. Might not want to let Davey see though. I would never hear the end of it," he said in her ear.
Luna gasped and felt very warm at this action. She smiled as she said, "I'm not sure I'm ready for that yet. I see her as an older sister. It would be too embarrassing talking about it with her. And that's coming from me. I think dancing naked is the best way to do so. Less restrictive that way."
Harry blushed as he got an image of Luna doing that. It was both beautiful and hot. He blushed anew once he realized a certain part of him really approved of such a picture.
Luna gasped silently as she noticed Harry's hardness. She carefully squirmed in his lap. Harry found it very difficult and embarrassing.
Luna was embarrassed but really happy as well. She even felt proud as she settled in a position so Harry's firmness was given a resting place by her bum. "I'm what caused this… " she thought to herself. She actually moved in a way she was rubbing against it. She never thought she would get a guy into a state like this. It was kind of a rush to her.
"Damn it. Another cute witch who can do things to me… I'm going to have to be really careful it seems. Even if it is nice, " Harry thought. He really did enjoy this sensation, especially because Luna was sitting in his lap and leaning back against him.
"I'll probably try to keep things with you and Hermione separate," he assured her.
"I'm sure both of us will appreciate that. Though… I'm not exactly opposed to certain things… together," she said blushing. It was so embarrassing, but she was never one to beat around bush as they said. She would love being with both Harry and Hermione at the same time in the right circumstances.
Harry blushed to that. Luna was going to be some rather delightful trouble it seemed. "I never took you to be a tease," Harry said with a chuckle.
Luna smiled to that and turned to look at Harry again. Harry had to admit she looked really cute like this. "I never thought I could get such a reaction from a boy," she said as she wiggled her butt on purpose to emphasize her point.
Harry got her point loud and clear.
"Be careful, Luna. Turnabout is fair play," he said lowly. He held her closer and gave her ear a little nibble.
Luna pleasantly shuddered to that. She had a feeling things would be more troublesome for her heart than she thought. She looked forward to how this all would go though. It seemed her second year at Hogwarts would be very interesting and a lot more fun.
She still had some of the summer to go first. That could be exciting as well.
Chapter 42: Magics, Rituals and Elf FriendsNotes:(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter TextHarry was in thought as he and Mr. Timmins met with Jett in his "office". Jett's office was nice enough since it was from back when this place was actually used for business. It worked and was kept in decent shape, but this was fine and Jett felt it perfect for him. He did not want to become the kind of leader who sat up in a cushy office somewhere all the time. You inevitably lose sight of things that way.
"It isn't exactly an issue yet. But I have seen the signs to an extent. I figured it would be best if we came up with a solution to head things off. Prevention is key in many ways as they say," Jett started.
Mr. Timmins nodded. "The muggleborns do help there, but it is still hard for non-magicals to grasp magic. They can't really get that we have a lot of wards and such set up for protection and safety," he said in thought.
Harry looked to the others. "What if we had some of the muggleborns join the Street Knights officially? They could have their own patrols in the magical part and help from time to time with the regular patrols as well," he suggested.
"That could work really well. They would know how to actually be a part of the muggle world. Many of them will be plenty happy to do more for this growing community," Mr. Timmins said.
"That could work. But they have to realize we sometimes need to do unsavory things. Street Knights all realize this even though only some usually help with the worst of it," Jett said in caution.
Harry nodded to that. He then said, "I'm not an expert... I'm still very new to the magical world. But I feel there are more than a few who have had to already do such things."
"This is true. For some, that is a big part of the reason why they have come here. A fresh start. Their past experiences could make this a good thing or a bad thing. Good, because they are fine with it to an extent and feel this place is worth it. Many already decided they will do all they can for the place," Mr. Timmins said.
"It could be bad, because they wanted to escape such a lifestyle. It could push them away," Harry then added as Mr. Timmins nodded.
"Many of the Street Knights are in the same boat. If you can find out who all will be fine with it, that would be best," Jett said.
"Maybe we could have someone help out Mr. Timmins there. Someone who can explain to them in more detail what they would have to do as full-fledged Street Knights," Harry said.
"That would help out a lot. As for some joining to help with patrols, that won't be a problem. They also know not to use magic beyond what we have come to call the Magic Cloak," Mr. Timmins said.
The Magic Cloak is what they called the area protected from Ministry of Magic detection. It was a muggle area, so lots of magic suddenly happening would be bad. Some magic here and there wasn't a problem. Too often though or something making the news, would bring in the Obliviators and everything would come to an end.
Remus Lupin, Mr. Timmins and some of the first here already mapped out the Magic Cloak. They even found a way to observe it. They would know of any fluctuations or changes in the covered area. They were also looking into ways to add long term privacy wards. That was a different matter though.
"That can easily be arranged. It will really head off a lot of possible future issues. They can see the patrols. That is protection and security they can understand and fully appreciate. As for the less than pleasant parts, only some will have to worry about that. It would also prove further this is one community. Not two completely separate ones, but in the same area," Jett said.
"I might know a couple of people right off the top of my head who wouldn't mind doing that. They fully know how things are in both worlds. They know the good and the bad. That it isn't all black and white. They also have morals and want their actions to have real meaning. Helping protect the Rust District and the people here. Joining the Street Knights. That would be the kind of meaning they want," Mr. Timmins said.
"I feel we have covered enough for this visit. I'm sure you don't want us holding you up any longer than needed this time, Harry," Jett said with a smile.
Harry nodded to that and blushed a little. He was going to be spending time with Luna again tonight. Now that they were officially going out, Harry enjoyed that time even more. He was also glad this was over for now.
He felt relieved they solved things presently. He was glad to have helped out a little, but he also kind of felt this was more of a lesson for him to a degree. He felt Mr. Timmins and Jett would have reached the same conclusion he did anyways. He could handle lessons like this for now though.
He would soon be able to help out more hopefully. He would be meeting again to further discuss things with Goldbite. It was possible Harry would gain further access to at least one of his family vaults. He could start looking into other ways to provide for the growing community.
[-] [-] [-]
When Harry got home, he was immediately hugged by a dirty blonde blur. "Welcome back, Harry," Luna said brightly.
Harry immediately returned her hug. He also took in her scent. He really liked that Luna had her own scent and it was wonderful.
Luna broke off the hug and stepped back. She placed her hands behind her back and blushed a little as she shyly asked, "How do I look?"
Harry took her in and smiled. She had her hair in that twin-tails style again. She was wearing a blue skirt and a lemon-yellow top. "You look great," he said.
"Thanks," Luna said as she blushed a little deeper. "Davey helped me pick it out," she admitted.
"I thought I recognized the outfit. You look amazing in it," Harry said.
"I borrowed it from her. I didn't exactly pack anything date-worthy. I usually don't care about such things, but I wanted to try it just once at least," Luna said.
Harry looked her over and grinned a little. She looked really nice in it. She even seemed to be wearing just a hint of makeup. "You look really pretty," he said again.
Luna giggled a little loud, as she usually did, but smiled even brighter. She actually loved trying such things. She also loved having an older sister she could borrow an outfit for a date from. Davey was just as happy to have a little sister she could lend said outfit to for a date.
"It won't be an issue getting to where we're heading, right? You look to have plenty of movement, but I'm not an outfit expert," Harry said.
Luna smiled in a pleased fashion as she said, "I may not have a Gryffindor's Courage, but I do have a Ravenclaw's curiosity. I've been on plenty of creature hunts with daddy. We always have to traverse hard to reach and hard to find places for the hunts to really be worthwhile."
"That's good to hear. Did Dobby drop that off?" Harry then asked.
Luna nodded and left before returning with a picnic basket. "He did a few minutes ago. Claimed he wanted it to have Trues Perfections for Master Harry Potter sirs and his… Lulo…" she blushed happily at the end. She really liked being called that.
Harry blushed a little as well. He liked hearing Luna called that. He thought he might even like it too much. Considering other things he liked, Harry guessed it made sense.
"Let's get going then," Harry said as he took the picnic basket in one hand and offered Luna an arm. She smiled happily and eagerly took his arm.
Davey was proud she managed to keep from letting out an "Awwww!" at the sight of them leaving. She hoped their date would be a success. She was sure it would be, but she still hoped for it.
[-] [-] [-]
Luna and Harry were sitting up high on a rooftop in the Rust District together watching the sunset. Their trek here had been plenty of fun. They talked a lot and Harry loved how happy Luna seemed. He also got an unintentional look up her skirt towards the end. Luna was in such a good mood she chose to skip up the stairs at one point. Harry tried to look away, but he couldn't help himself.
The dinner they had together was amazing. Dobby's idea of Trues Perfections would floor many a professional chef. Harry didn't know picnic foods could taste this good. They also had plenty of stuff packed into the basket since Dobby used House Elf magic.
The only thing better was the company in Harry's opinion. Harry liked Luna as a friend a lot. He hadn't been sure what it would be like to have her as a girlfriend. It turned out he liked Luna as a girlfriend even more. She was very different from Hermione, but she still had the same level of intelligence he would say.
The differences were the things they talked about. With Hermione, they discussed things more in detail or from a study standpoint. It was fun and he liked it when they did that. With Luna, they still had the intelligence part, but their discussions were more… fanciful in a way. There was more wonderment at the scale of possibilities.
When he and Hermione talked about things the wonderment was more about the details of stuff and what it could mean. It was a bit more structured and confined by studies and such.
Harry ran his fingers through one of Luna's twin tails as she sat between his legs. "I have to say this look and hairstyle really suits you," he said.
"I really like it a lot. I'd wear it plenty more, but I don't want to keep bothering Minty for help. It would be difficult for me in the mornings on my own," Luna said as she sort of leaned back. She liked the feeling of Harry running his fingers through her hair.
"You two really seem to get along well," Harry said.
Luna smiled. "We do! The two of us already decided she would be my First Elf Friend," she said happily. She was really excited about that. She would tell her dad all about it. She also looked forward to learning more about what it meant to be an Elf Friend.
"Only a few more days," Harry said.
"Yeah…" Luna said a little sad.
"What is it?" Harry asked in concern.
"Hermione's coming tomorrow. I'll be happy to see her again, but I'm also being a little selfish. I'm going to miss it being just the two of us," she said. She wasn't one to talk around things. She preferred being up front about things.
Harry frowned a little. "I'm sorry my situation is like it is," he said.
"Don't worry about that. I'm fine with it. We have to share you, but that also means we don't have to force you to pick. We'll have to figure something out, but I do really like Hermione as well. I don't think that will be a problem," Luna said.
"Oh…" Harry said.
"I'm going to miss it just being us. However, I'm fine and happy to have it be us and Hermione as well," she added.
"I will do what I can there. I want you both to feel as special as you two are to me," he said.
Luna blushed as she turned to look at him. She smiled happily and looked a little nervous as she said, "One thing that could really help with that… Is if we kissed before tomorrow."
Harry smiled to her. "The sunset is really beautiful from up here," he said to her.
Luna wasn't sure what to make of that, but turned to look anyways. He was right. It was a very wonderful view.
After they sat like that together for a moment longer, Harry suddenly turned her head and captured her lips. Luna's silver eyes widened in surprise and happiness. She happily returned the kiss.
Luna tried to shift her position but ended up toppling over and causing them both to fall back on to the rooftop. Luna blushed as she looked to Harry below her. She took in his green eyes. Harry then reached up and cupped one of her cheeks. He leaned up a little and continued their kiss.
Luna's heart was beating fast again as they continued kissing and it turned a little fiercer. She felt that wonderful fuzziness and a little breathlessly. Harry ran his other hand along her back as they kissed and eventually settled for firmly grasping her bum.
The blonde girl gasped at that as she looked to him with blushing cheeks and elated silver eyes. She grabbed on to him the best she could and heated up their kiss. They continued their kiss at that level and pace.
[-] [-] [-]
Luna and Harry laid next to each other as they looked up to the now starry night sky. Luna's hair was a little mussed and her lipstick a little smudged, but she was very pleased. " That's a kiss… " she thought dreamily to herself as Harry held her close.
Harry felt really happy. He knew the kiss would be wonderful. He looked to his side and at Luna's face as she kept looking upwards. He was surprised how much he liked seeing her in this setting.
"When I mentioned kissing me tonight," Luna started as she looked to him.
"Yes?" Harry asked.
"I meant at that moment," she said.
"Is that so?" Harry asked with a grin.
"Why did you leave me wanting at that moment?" Luna asked curiously.
"Maybe I wanted to get you back a little for all the teasing you do," Harry said. He wasn't at all hiding his amusement.
"I figured that would be your explanation for grabbing my butt," Luna said. It was clear she wasn't upset by Harry grabbing her back there. She just wanted an answer.
Harry hummed in pretend thought. Luna was about to give a pout. Harry then donned once more that damnable… wonderful… lovely… charming smile of his.
"I wanted it to be more spontaneous. More special," he said to her. He then stole a quick kiss from her.
Luna blushed and smiled as she felt warmed by another sudden kiss. She could really get used to those. She then stole one quickly in return for herself. Harry grinned to that.
"We can still stay her a little longer, right?" Luna asked. She really wanted to, but she wasn't sure if there was 'be back by time'.
Harry chuckled to that. "We can stay a lot longer if you want," he answered her. He then held her closer.
"I'd like that," Luna said as she rested her head on his chest and looked up again. She really loved the night sky, especially her name's sake. This night was going to be an extra special memory to her.
[-] [-] [-]
As Hermione's cab came to a stop at the meeting place, she immediately stepped out and hug tackled Harry. She was giving him a bright big grin. "Hey you!" she said.
Harry chuckled and smiled back. "Hey to you as well," he said.
The driver just shook his head in amusement as he got out her luggage.
"I'll take it from here," Harry said to him as the man placed it on the curb.
The driver nodded as Hermione paid the fare. He was a little miffed she was meeting someone her age like this, but it wasn't his business to pry. He figured they were probably waiting for someone else here anyways.
"It is so good to see you again, Harry!" Hermione said with a big grin.
"I've missed you too. There is so much to show you," Harry said as he grabbed her trunk.
"I'm a bit surprised Luna didn't come as well," Hermione said.
"She probably wanted to give us some time together. She's happily spending time with Davey right now anyways. Those two are the sisters they never had," Harry said.
Hermione nodded. She then had to ask something right away. "Did you take my advice?"
Harry blushed in response. Hermione was just about to call him out thinking that was a no. He then swallowed and said, "I ummm… did…"
"And?" Hermione asked.
"She was ummm… fine with it," Harry said. Even if both girls were fine with it, the topic was still embarrassing to discuss. He knew few others would be in such a situation. Those few would probably act extra cocky about it though.
Hermione gave a small smile to that. She was okay with it. She was even a bit happy. There was still a part of her that kind of needed to get used to it. She did trust Harry though. He had assured her many times he would keep his relationships sperate from each other.
"She even said she really liked you too… and wouldn't mind possibly doing things together…" Harry said.
"Oh…" Hermione said as she stopped in her tracks and blinked to that in shock. She then thought on that. She blushed as she remembered her thoughts from that Christmas morning. "I ummm… Also wouldn't mind that," she said.
Harry was the one to come to dead stop this time. "Really?" he asked in shock.
Hermione blushed deeper and looked a little to the side. "Just not too often… You know… If you ever want," she said. Why was she admitting this? She planned to keep it to herself forever! Maybe she was a lot more okay with the whole situation than she first thought.
"I'll… Keep that in mind. I guess," Harry said as they rounded a corner.
Just then Dobby appeared. "Harry Potter Sirs' Grangy! Dobby was too happys to meet you and waits," he said excitedly.
Hermione looked over Dobby curiously. She had never seen a house elf before. She liked how happy he was. She also knew she needed to get used to it. That was one thing she was here for after all. Hermione grinned to him. "I'm happy to see you too, Dobby," she said.
"Dobby is happys Harry's Grangy wants to see him toos!" he said as he took the trunk from Harry.
Hermione then had to pause in step again. Her eyes widened. She then blushed furiously. "Harry's Grangy… " she thought to herself. She blushed even deeper and smiled widely. She liked that a whole lot. That part of her especially liked it.
"Dobby be takings this now!" he said.
"Wait! You don't have to take it," Hermione then said. She was thinking more about the whole house elf thing.
Dobby grinned brightly. "Dobby knows! Dobby is frees. Dobby wants to though! Harry and his Grangy can have more funs right aways!" he said before disappearing.
Harry gave a chuckle. "You are going to have to get used to that. One of the first things Dobby did after being free was wash his new sock twice. Just because he could," Harry said.
"Really?" Hermione asked.
"Yep. They like being helpful. They all see themselves as good house elves, even if they are free. They still do a lot of cleaning and fixing of things. But they also spend plenty of time chatting with each other and people in the area," Harry said.
Hermione was in thought. She might have at one time claimed they were conditioned to be that way and it was wrong. She decided however to instead do what was right here. She needed to learn a lot more about them. She needed to learn from them. She would not assume she already knew better than they did.
If she wanted to be a true and good elf friend, she needed to see them as equals and not just beings she had to help or save. She would help them as a friend would, but she did not know much about house elves yet. She would correct that and learn all she could from them.
[-] [-] [-]
The Rust District was in better shape, but still had the same Rust District feel to Hermione. She kind of preferred it that way. There was just something to it. She hated having to use the term, but she couldn't think of a better way to describe it… the place had character.
"I really hate how vague and open that statement is, " she thought to herself. She liked having definition and grounded meanings to things. She suddenly felt something as they continued walking.
"This is where the magic part starts," Harry said as he grabbed her hand.
Hermione grinned and happily followed. She excitedly looked around. "Wow…" she said.
Harry nodded in agreement. It really was something seeing the magical part of the Rust District. It was still basic, but it was starting to properly take shape. The houses in the area weren't very big, but they were a good size. They also had a bit of a medieval look to them with a mostly modern twist.
The residents were inspired by the old standing structure in the area. They felt it was right this growing community took on a similar look. It was a way to show appreciation to the building which would allow this place to grow into something amazing one day.
"There are quite a lot of people here already," Hermione said as she watched people passing by and visiting each other.
"People from the Street Knights and Rust District come here as well. A lot of magicals did move here too. Mostly muggleborns, werewolves and their families," Harry explained to her.
"It seems to be going pretty well so far," Hermione said.
"There is a lot of cooperation with all of the magicals here. Many of the werewolves have even said they like other magicals being around to stop them if needed. They do worry what could happen in the worst-case scenario. Most of them would gladly die than hurt their families if it came to that," Harry said.
"It hasn't. Has it?" Hermione asked in worry.
"Nope. The muggleborns and werewolves worked on many security measures and other precautions and the house elves also help out a lot there too. Mr. Timmins pointed out something recently I hadn't fully grasped before. Pretty much every werewolf is also a full-fledged witch or wizard. Here they have a chance and they can do a lot with it," Harry said.
"Why are werewolves feared so much then?" Hermione had to ask.
"Too many think of Fenrir Greyback when it comes to werewolves. Too many think of the incidents that used to happen in the past. They wrongfully believe all werewolves want to hurt others. They think werewolves want to pass on their curse. The only reasoning they have for this thought process is Fenrir Greyback. He has the biggest pack in the UK," he said.
Hermione frowned to that. "I kind of understand… maybe… It is wrong though. So wrong," she said.
Harry nodded in agreement. "I know what you mean. Fenrir Greyback's pack is the issue. They are powerful and the most numerous among the werewolves in the UK. Though I do wonder if that is really true. I feel you could say they are the most organized and sizable, but I wonder…" he said looking over the many people in the area.
"I don't think that will be the case for too much longer. Werewolves have options now," Harry said.
"They don't have to belong to a pack," Hermione said seeing where he was going. She again realized just how important this place was.
"They can be a part of a community," Harry added.
Hermione could only stand next to Harry in thought over those words. People would say the packs were a community. That wasn't it though. A community was something more than a pack.
They started to move again and soon were in a different part. "What are these?" Hermione asked as she saw what looked like better built covered pavilions with tent sides or something.
"This is where the house elves are," Harry said.
"They have to live like this?" Hermione asked. She felt this wasn't right. These didn't seem like something you could call a home.
"For the moment. They might still go with shared living spaces or something later, but this is until after the ritual," Harry said.
"Why is that?" Hermione asked.
"I don't know all of the specifics. But Tibbles and Dobby have explained setting up proper house elf homes might accidentally over tax the source. It has something to do with how their bond is with a place instead of a family. Or as we will be, Elf Friends. Magic isn't as easily found in the wild like it once was. Not really too much of an issue for witches and wizards, but that isn't the case for magical beings," Harry said.
"So that is why we have to do the ritual instead of just wanting to do it," Hermione explained mostly to herself.
"Yep," Harry said with a nod.
"I've wondered why they wanted to limit the number of elf friends though," Hermione admitted.
"It is not something they just hand out. It is an honor for us and them. It is too special to just bring on anyone," Harry said.
"Why are they allowing Luna and I to participate so early though?" she asked.
"Tibbles said it is what magic has told him and others. It is a bit peculiar, but magic tells them you two will be worth the exception," he answered.
"How many times will we be going through the ritual?" Hermione asked. She didn't have details yet. You also couldn't find them in books.
"Just once. While we will all be called Elf Friend by them, there is a limit to how many we can share the bond with. That will be more than enough to free up the strain they could have on the source here and allow them and the community to prosper a lot," Harry said.
Hermione smiled as she listened. She may not have enough details for her liking, but she was excited about this. She was really looking forward to being an Elf Friend. "I will do all I can to be worthy of such an honor," she said.
Harry looked to her and smiled as he kissed her on the lips. "I know you will," he said once he ended it shortly after.
Hermione felt warm from the kiss and the trust she felt from that one sentence.
[-] [-] [-]
"So. Was there anything else?" Harry asked. He was meeting with Tibbles and Dobby as they went over the final details and checklist for the Elf Friend Ritual.
"That bes all. This good works. Yous all will be greatest Elf Friends," Tibbles said with a nod.
"You have really done a lot for this place, Tibbles. I feel we would be lost without you," Harry said.
"Tibbles be Great house elf! He be house elf sage!" Dobby said in agreement.
"I only listens to magic. I not be only one who cans," Tibbles said.
Harry was silent for a moment. He didn't want to bring this up, but he was taking a leaf out of Jett's book here. Making sure to work on preventing possible future problems. "Are there any others close to your level of Listening? I have noticed you are pretty… aged. You have great wisdom because of that, but I hope you don't have to push yourself too much," he said.
Dobby was in thought as well. He frowned. He almost wanted to argue with Harry on this, but he had to admit Harry was right. "Dobby will do what he cans to get betters! Others will as wells!" he then said in determination.
Tibbles gave a smile. "Tibbles be verys verys advanced. There are others who is goods at listening toos, but they still need learns lots," he said.
Dobby and Harry shared a look with each other briefly.
"However. Tibbles be here long times yet. Tibbles not always be in charges though. Magics tells me so," he said.
"What do you mean?" Harry couldn't help ask.
Tibbles seemed to take on a different air, even if he was still smiling a little. It seemed as if he was almost in awe himself. It was like he was equally excited about something and in disbelief. "Theys will be comings," he said giving Dobby a look.
Dobby was in thought. Harry was lost, but had come to realize at moments like this it was best to just pay attention to the house elves. He could tell something big was about to be shared.
Dobby was in thought a moment longer. Then his eyes grew even larger. "You can'ts mean…" he said but cut himself off.
"Tibbles does. The Ancient ones. Will awaken," Tibbles said.
Dobby seemed completely still in awe.
Harry felt he should ask for clarification here. "What exactly do you mean?"
"The Stasis Ones," Tibbles said.
"They bes most ancient house elves. They bes the firsts! They bes very differents! This be bigs," Dobby said.
"It be times of House Elf Prophecies," Tibbles said in some excitement.
"I could tells this be bigs. Dobby not know it be that bigs!" Dobby said excitedly.
"The Stasis Ones?" Harry asked.
"Dobby tells you about how Oldest Families mean somethings different that no longer exists," Dobby started.
Harry gave a nod thinking back to their conversation after the Chamber.
"Back thens. Back before Histories be twisteds. Magicals and Magical beings were always togethers! Theys even have families. House Elves looks very differents back thens. Muggies sort of depictures how they weres now," Dobby said.
"How did the whole service bond happen then?" Harry asked him.
"Dobby not really know," Dobby said with a frown.
"It be gift," Tibbles said.
Harry and Dobby looked to him again with eagerness.
"Many baddies back thens. Baddies of all kinds. Mosts be gones fully now. That be due to Magicals working togethers with House Elves and others. Magicals back thens saved house elves. House Elves Gifted current House Elf Bond in deepest of thanks. It bes that bads in those days," Tibbles said.
Harry was frowning deeply now. "It is all the more a shame then it is taken for granted," he said. Dobby nodded in agreement.
"You bes Child of Prophecies though. Things be betters," Tibbles said.
"I'm not sure I like the whole Child of Prophecy thing," Harry said.
Tibbles shook his head. "Child of Prophecies. Many Prophecies," he said.
Harry felt a little more nervous hearing that. "That is almost worse…" he said mostly to himself.
Tibbles and Dobby both gave a sigh at the same.
"Wizzies smarts. But so dumbs at times," Dobby said shaking his head.
"That be too trues," Tibbles agreed.
Harry gave them a frown.
"Wizzies put too weighty in prophecies," Dobby said.
"Theys not even listens to a hundredths of thems though," Tibbles said.
Harry wasn't sure what to make of that. "How do house elves treat prophecies then?" he asked.
"They be possible paths and no mores. Theys also be vagues," Dobby said.
Tibbles nodded. "You have manys. You also have many greats as wells," he said.
"This be whys Master Harry Potter sirs be importants to elves," Dobby said with a nod.
"It be like this. You have prophecy that says you saves magic worlds. You have prophecy that says you destroys it," Tibbles said.
"I would never do that!" Harry said.
"That means Destroy Prophecies no matters now," Dobby said with a big grin.
"I guess that is good hear. I wouldn't want to be a dark lord or something," Harry said.
"You could haves destroyed wizard worlds just by walkings aways though. You could stills be dark lords. You just want to saves wizard world to rules it," Tibbles said.
Harry frowned to them.
"That most likely not be cases though. Yous do much good. Yous make magical community! You stays by friends. You cares deeplys for your Grangy and Lulo!" Dobby said excitedly in reassurance as Tibbles nodded.
"We be ones who decide which prophecies come trues. We decides what weights they haves. Prophecies just be words about paths we could take," Tibbles said.
Harry relaxed at that after some thought. "I can live with that view on prophecies," he said.
"It be whys house elves sees it that ways," Tibbles said in a sage like manner.
"I'm actually looking forward to meeting these Stasis Ones. I'm finding it more and more interesting learning about your beliefs and what all you do," Harry said.
Dobby grinned brightly as he said, "That be why Dobby knows you be Great House Elf Friend!"
"Dobby be rights," Tibbles said with a nod.
"How careful should I be when talking about this stuff to others?" Harry asked. This did seem very important and something to handle carefully.
Tibbles frowned just a little bit. "You should not shares much at alls. Mr. Timmins, Your Lulo and Your Grangy should find out from their own elf friends. You should listens to magics. It lets you know whens to shares," he said.
"Dobby agrees on this. He knows it be hards. But this be hows it is for nows," Dobby said.
Harry nodded. He would have to work to on it, but he had faith in Hermione and Luna. They would come to learn it as well. They were fully on board with being Elf Friends. Luna was very curious about everything, and Hermione wanted to learn all she could about everything.
"Do you know when the Stasis Ones will awaken?" Harry asked curiously.
Tibbles shook his head. "Magics just says it be when it needs be," he said.
"I understand. Pansy talks about how Magic doesn't always give straight answers. I suppose that would take the excitement out of life if it did. I'll have to learn more about listening myself," Harry said with a small smile. He was more eager to look into it than he already was.
Tibbles and Dobby both grinned at him. "That be how is!" Tibbles said as Dobby nodded excitedly.
Harry stood up. "I'll take my leave then. I'm looking forward to the ritual," he said as he left the two.
"Things be even more excitings!" Dobby said happily to Tibbles.
"Yes. They bes. The Age of Elf Friend is coming," Tibbles said with excitement in his aged large eyes.
[-] [-] [-]
Hermione watched in wonderment as Tibbles, Dobby and Minty drew out a series of intricate runes on the ground with elf magic. She would focus once the ritual started, but until then she watched with the familiar light of excitement in her eyes when it came to learning. She was all the more excited about her upcoming year when she would be taking Ancient Runes.
She would admit the runes the house elves drew looked very different from the ones she had seen in the text book, along with her… "supplemental materials". Everyone else would just call them extra books, but she preferred something more.
"I guess this is more house elf magic," Hermione said louder than she meant.
"It just bes lost magics to wizzies," the house elf standing next to her said with a big grin. He was a tall and thin elf with dark blue hair ending in raven black. His name was Doodle. He was one of the House Elves Hermione would be bonding with as part of the Elf Friend Ritual. He loved talking and explaining things, which was perfect because Hermione would have plenty of questions.
"That means I can learn it!" Hermione said excitedly.
"Yous needs first class firsts. That one teaches yous basics," Doodle said.
"I-I know that," Hermione said a bit sheepishly. She then looked to the other soon to be Elf Friends. Harry Potter, Luna Lovegood, and Mr. Timmins were all participating while Mr. Lupin was given permission to watch the ceremony.
Four participants would be all that was needed, even if more later underwent the ritual. Each of them would be bonding with a number of elves, but would have a First Elf Friend so to speak. The First Elf Friend would be their guide when it came to what being an elf friend meant.
Hermione supposed she should start calling Mr. Lupin, Professor Lupin instead. He told her he would be teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts this year, but only this year. He held building this community in too high regard for staying away longer than a school year.
Hermione felt a little mixed about this. She understood his decision and agreed with it, but she hated the fact they would again be needing another DADA teacher the year after. It was even tougher on her because she could already tell he would be much better than Quirrell and Lockhart. That didn't really say much, but it was true.
"Elf Friends. Stands in places and elves do the sames," Tibbles said to everyone gathered.
Once everyone was in place, the elves grabbed hands with each other and the elf friends. The remaining house elves stood in a larger circle outside of the rune array. Tibbles took his place in the middle.
He held up a ceremonial staff and tapped it on the ground twice. The surrounding elves stomped in unison with each other. Tibbles tapped the ground twice again. The elves responded in kind.
"Wes gathers as elves and magicals who wishes to befriends. These gathered magicals have been deemed worthy of such a gift. These elves volunteers and wishes to be friends. They seeks bond deepers than House Elf and Wizard. Theys wish to knows each others bestest. Is that so?" Tibbles said.
"We do," all of the participants replied together.
A female house elf with bright blonde hair stepped forward. "I, Bonnies here speaks on behalfs of elves. We sees this bonds as good. We bares witness to these gathered. All elves will sees and recognizes them as Elf Friends. We finds this acceptables," she said.
"We dos!" the surrounding elves said out loud together.
"I, Tibbles, House Elf Sage. Bounds these wizzies and elves in friendships. Let them be knowns as Elf Friends!" Tibbles said as he struck the ground with his staff a final time.
There was a silence for a moment. Then the runic array glowed. Harry, Hermione, Luna, and Mr. Timmins all felt an inviting warmth surround them and flow through them. Then there was what sounded like a tune of sort on the wind, which lasted but a moment. All the elves and magicals gathered couldn't help but smile brightly. They right away knew one thing was for certain.
The Age of Elf Friend was beginning.