chapter five
Harry Potter sat on the steps of number twelve Grimmauld place and waited patiently for his wife to call to collect him. His mind was wandering around in various day dreams, some of them were of his previous life and the things he had hoped for, but was never lucky enough to have. Some of these day dreams had been with him since he was in the fourth year at Hogwarts in his previous existence.
'He was standing alone in the tent waiting for his turn to face a dragon, and as usual with his luck he had been left with the most vicious dragon. Just waiting and pacing the tent had been stretching his nerves to their limits, the tent flap opened and Hermione walked in, asked him how he was coping, then crying for him she flung her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately,' this was one of his favourite day dreams because it was not too far from the truth, Hermione had come into the tent and put her arms around his neck but she had only kissed him on his cheek.
A nudge from his godfather brought Harry from his musings with a start. "You do know it's only ten forty-five, don't you?" Sirius asked jokily, "If Hermione said eleven then she will be here at eleven."
"They are on the way, should be here quite soon," Harry answered looking toward the small entrance of Grimmauld place. Harry had not been sleeping well during his stay with his godfather; he was so used to going to bed with Hermione that he found it hard to sleep without her by his side, he was eagerly looking forward to holding her again.
'HARRY! There are three people, I think they are Death Eaters, oh Harry they've seen me, they've stopped the car' Hermione shouted in his head.
'Hermione calm down a little, cast a shield inside the car; you don't need your wand, tell me exactly where you are' Harry thought back trying to be calm.
'We were just about to turn into Grimmauld Place, one of them looks like some sort of deranged witch, one of the men is Mr Malfoy, Harry I need help, I have to protect my dad' Hermione thought beginning to panic.
'Don't panic love, just hold your shield for a few seconds and I'll be with you' Harry thought as he suddenly rose to his feet.
"Sirius Death Eaters just outside the Place entrance," Harry said just before he disapparated.
Sirius blinked back his surprise at Harry vanishing and seconds later he too vanished from the steps of number twelve.
Harry arrived in the roadway just in front of the Grangers car, spinning around he found himself face to face with Bellatrix Lestrange, Lucius Malfoy, and another wizard he did not recognise.
"Ah Mr Potter, we meet again," Malfoy drawled "Time for you to pay for destroying the Dark Lord."
Harry chuckled at the predicament of his three adversaries; here he stood looking wandless and helpless. 'They have no idea' he thought as they closed the gap between them. Bellatrix was her usual mad looking self, talking to Harry as though she were talking to a baby.
"As der icklle Potty come to save his fwend then," she said in her sick mocking way.
The loud pop announcing Sirius's arrival distracted the ex Death Eaters for a second. A second that Harry put to good use, both Malfoy and Lestrange were stunned before they even saw him move.
Stunning spells left Harry's left and right hands without him seeming to move, the third unknown wizard attempted to disapparate but Harry was much quicker doing wandless magic, and he had surrounded the man with an anti apparation shield even as his two companions sank to the floor. Just a few seconds later Sirius bound the three ex Death Eaters with tight ropes, Harry broke their wands, taking great pleasure in snapping Malfoys cane as well.
'It's ok now love, you and your dad go and wait for us at the house, Sirius and I will bring our guests along' Harry said flicking a spell to restart the Granger car.
'Harry you were brilliant, oh I'm so proud of you', Hermione thought as she beamed at him from the passenger seat of her dad's car.
Sirius levitated the three prisoners as he and Harry walked the short distance to number twelve.
"Sirius, you're not very good with that wand are you," Hermione said as they reached the house.
"Hello to you too Hermione, oh and by the way I have no idea what you mean," Sirius answered as he removed his levitating charm while his prisoners were still a few feet in the air.
"You kept letting your wand drop causing Mr Malfoy to bang his head several times," Hermione said in her lecture voice.
"Did I?" Sirius exclaimed in mock horror "I mustn't have been paying attention," he chuckled and winked at Harry.
With a shake of his head Harry said hello to his father in law "Sorry about that, they must have been looking for me, seems they wanted a little revenge," he told the rather shaken Mr Granger.
"Well I obviously don't have to worry about whether you can protect my daughter Harry," Mr Granger said as they shook hands.
Harry turned his attention to Hermione who was standing glaring at him with her hands on her hips, a sight Harry had seen many times before "Hermione love," he said holding out his hands.
"Harry Potter, that was downright reckless, there were three of them, you could have been hurt,"
Harry had known she was in full lecture mode the moment he saw her eyes so he stepped forward and stopped her before she could get into full flow by kissing her where she stood.
"Hi sweetheart," he said when he pulled back from the kiss. Hermione her lecture forgotten flung her arms around him and pulled him into a hug "Harry I've missed you so much,"
Sirius reported the incident to the ministry, delaying their departure by two hours; Aurors came for the three wrongdoers and took statements from all involved. Harry found that Malfoy had used his influence and gold to get him self and Bellatrix out of prison.
Arrival at the Granger home was rather different than Harry had expected. They were met by Mrs Granger who it seemed had taken to pacing up and down the lawn in front of the house. After explaining what had happened to delay them, Harry was subjected to a lecture he could not duck out of by kissing the person giving him the lecture. Mrs Granger finished the lecture by holding Harry in a fierce hug and telling him if he ever had her worried again she would ground him for a month.
They all burst out into spontaneous laughter as Mrs Granger turned red realising what she had said. "It's ok mum, if you say he's grounded then I'll withdraw his kissing rights," Hermione laughed.
Harry looked mortified at the very idea 'No kissing for a month'
Hermione smiled 'You'll just have to make sure mum doesn't ground you'
"You two are doing it again aren't you?" Sirius asked "I can't imagine what it must be like, but it sure came in handy today."
"Whats that?" Mr Granger asked, while Mrs Granger looked on in curiosity.
"Shall we go inside, I need to ask Harry a few questions," Sirius said looking up and down the leafy avenue.
In the living room of the Granger house Harry sat with Hermione on the soft leather sofa facing the three adults. 'Oh boy this is going to be awkward Hermione' Harry thought.
Hermione gave his hand a gentle squeeze 'I'm right here if you need me love'
"Harry James Potter, you disapparated," Sirius said looking serious "how and when did you learn to apparate?"
Harry stuttered trying to think of an answer when Hermione came to his rescue 'Harry remember you told me about ending up on the school roof when you were escaping Dudley'
Harry thanked her then reminded Sirius about the episode "I told you how I did it before when I told you how the Dursleys treated me, I ended up on the school roof, well I think getting to Hermione was the same thing."
'Clever Harry and you did not have to lie, well not really' Hermione complimented him.
They had to explain to the Grangers about their telepathy, though they had to give a demonstration to convince Mrs Granger. Hermione went upstairs to her bedroom and Harry repeated things Mrs Granger said, Hermione returned with a piece of parchment with all Mrs Granger had said written down word for word.
Harry received an owl from the ministry about an hour after his arrival; it was a summons to a meeting and an enquiry to be held in August. 'Talk about history repeating it self' Harry thought.
At four that afternoon Harry and Hermione were both surprised when the Weasley family turned up for a surprise party courtesy of Mrs Granger and Sirius. Harry received all his presents and spent a happy half hour very slowly opening them one by one. He knew he would be driving Ron crazy with his leisurely unwrapping of each package. He got the usual things from Mr and Mrs Weasley, from the Grangers he got a new watch to replace the one he ruined in the triwizard tournament. Sirius gave him a snitch, Ginny a box of chocolate frogs, 'I bet she eats most of them' he thought remembering Ginny's fondness for chocolate. Ron surprised him by not giving him anything related to the Chuddley Cannons; instead he received a box of liquorish allsorts. "Got them in a Muggle shop in the village near to Luna's place," he said going red.
Hermione was the last one to pass him a gift, Harry gently unwrapped the small package to reveal a small box, inside he found a signet ring with the Potter family crest on it, an inscription inside read 'Eternal Love' from L.E. to J.P. then another small one H.J.P to H.J.P. for all time.
"Dumbledore remembered it and helped track it down," Hermione told him as he looked at her teary eyed. "Thanks Hermione, did I tell you today that I love you?" he asked.
Ron, Ginny, and the twins all made gagging noises before bursting out in laughter. The rest of the party lasted until ten that evening when the Weasley Matriarch decided it was time for them to go home.
Harry and Hermione were allowed to share her bedroom after Hermione refused to sleep without Harry, she explained how they had married quarters at school and their no sex rule before they were old enough, Mrs Granger reluctantly gave her ok.
The Potters were barely separated for the remainder of the week, Sunday morning both Harry and Hermione left to spend the rest of their holiday at the Burrow with Ginny.
chapter six
Arriving at the Burrow by floo, Harry surprised everyone by actually walking from the fire place. One of the twins commented on how being married must have brought balance to Harry's life if he could actually arrive by floo without falling flat on his face. Hermione followed and was as usual adept at it; she looked rather graceful as she entered the kitchen. Harry wondered how he had ever managed to let her get away from him in that now almost imaginary lonely existence he had lived for seventy one years.
Almost as soon as they entered the kitchen Ginny gave Harry a huge hug, she then turned to Hermione, "I'm just going to give Harry a kiss for saving my life again, I hope you won't be too mad at me," she then turned and gave Harry a quick peck on the lips.
Harry turned a rather nice shade of red, or at least that was how everyone described his face afterwards. Hermione didn't mind too much as she knew that Harry's vision had been the reason Ginny had been taken to St Mungo's, and had had a potentially fatal weakness fixed. The meeting of the Weasley family and the usual hugging was almost over when Ron stood in front of Hermione. She had not forgotten Ron's outburst and him calling her his girlfriend, or Harry saying she had ended up married to him, she was a little nervous about his reaction so she gave him the briefest hug she could, then stepped back and took hold of Harry's hand in one hand and slipped her other hand around his waist.
Mrs Weasley seemed a little disappointed that her hopes for the four youngest had not gone the way she wished, but she led Harry and Hermione upstairs and showed them into Percy's room, "Ron and Ginny tell me you share quarters at school, so I see no reason why you can't share a room here, I want no hanky panky though," she laughed. Teatime at the Weasleys was as usual a large feast enjoyed the most by far by Ron, who's every thought seemed to include food somewhere in its midst. Harry commented about just how much Ron could eat without ever seeming to put on weight.
"I'm a growing boy," Ron complained.
"Yeah and half the world is starving because of it," Harry joked, but the joke fell a little flat.
Everyone knew about Ron's greed, but nobody wanted to mention it. It was when Ron started to mumble about being insulted by his best mate that Ginny stood up and offered a toast to Harry. Everyone looked at her wondering what she was doing, brushing away their looks she held up her glass of pumpkin juice, "To my hero, Harry the only one brave enough to tell the truth. Ron is just greedy."
Ron shot up from the table and made for the stairs, "I'm not greedy, I'm a growing lad," he shouted as he left.
The twins were on their feet before he reached the stair and they copied Ginny "To Harry, the first to say what everyone thinks."
Mrs Weasley began to yell at the twins about Ron being right about being a growing boy, when Mr Weasley stood up. "They are right Molly dear, the boy is just plain greedy."
Hermione not too happy about the ruckus caused by Harry, but not willing to tell lies or to offend her husband added to the conversation "Everyone in school thinks the same thing, he just eats for the sake of it,"
A little tension fell on the rest of the meal, "I was only making a joke," Harry said just a little remorseful.
"It's ok Harry, it's about time someone had the where with all to say it, so don't you worry about it anymore," Mr Weasley told him.
Mrs Weasley went upstairs to see if she could offer some comfort to Ron, but she came back down a minute later and started slamming pans into the sink.
"Molly love, what ever's wrong?" Mr Weasley asked as his wife whisked away his unfinished cup of tea.
"That greedy little twerp is sitting on his bed shoving chocolate frogs into his mouth," she yelled.
The Burrow kitchen erupted into laughter at her outburst, Molly Weasley had just admitted her youngest son was just plain greedy.
Once they were in their bedroom and ready for bed Harry looked at Hermione and thought 'I made a right royal mess of things today didn't I'
Hermione smiled 'It needed to be said Harry, it gets a bit much having to put up with people always whispering about your friends greed and awful eating habits, I heard two girls saying they had to miss meals altogether if they had to sit to close to Ron because he makes them feel ill, now forget about it and lets go to bed eh'
'Hermione Potter you are the most wonderful wife in the world'Harry thought.
'I heard that Harry, I love you to' Hermione thought as she snuggled up close to him.
The following day as the Weasleys played quidditch out in the paddock, and Hermione sat in her usual place under an old oak tree reading a book Harry called Hedwig over, "I'm going to write to Mrs Granger, fancy a flight," Hedwig his owl hooted, and gently nibbled his ear and nodded her head a little. Harry found a piece of parchment and began to write.
Dear Mum,
As it is Hermione's birthday in a few weeks time, I wonder if I could enlist your help in a small plot to allow me to sneak away to buy her present, as you will understand I don't want her to see the present until her birthday. Now what I propose is that you distract Hermione buying her a new dress or something, I will of course pay for it as no doubt you already have her present sorted, anyway if you can somehow allow me around an hour or so to shop I would be extremely grateful. I can make plans with Mr Weasley to allow us to floo to the Leaky Cauldron on Wednesday morning around ten and could meet you outside, we can then go shopping, I will of course leave you two women and meet you back at the pub around an hour later. Hedwig will wait for your answer and will bring the letter to me while I am alone. Bye for now, your son-in-law Harry.
Harry gave instructions to Hedwig as he tied the letter to her leg, "Now don't forget, wait till I am alone, ok," Hedwig hooted and flew out of the window.
A minute or so later Hermione and Ginny walked into the kitchen "Hi Harry, you missed a good game," Ginny said as she poured three glasses of pumpkin juice.
'Harry did I see Hedwig leave' he heard Hermione think.
'Yeah I think she went to look for Errol, he's not on his perch' Harry answered.
"Haarrryyyy?" Ginny said as she passed him a glass, "I found a little place over past the back of the garden, it's well shielded from view and I was wondering if we could go there and practice some spells?" she pleaded.
Harry looked a little doubtful till he heard Hermione 'that's not a bad idea Harry'.
"Ok Gin, we'll go soon as we finish this drink," he answered smiling at Hermione and wondering what she had in mind.
They followed Ginny across the back garden and past a row of trees into the Burrow wood, after a few minutes walking they came to a little clearing which was as Ginny had described well concealed.
'Hope you remember the way here Mr Potter' Hermione thought in a seductive tone.
'Hermione Potter that sounds a little like you are thinking of something that does not involve practising spells' he replied.
'Oh we will be practising, but as you said it wont be spells we practise' Hermione told him with a chuckle.
Ginny was looking at them closely "Ok what's going on? I know you two and something is going on,"
'Oh oh, Ginny is getting suspicious' Hermione thought.
'Well I don't know what to tell her' Harry answered.
'Distract her then' she told him.
So Harry pulled Ginny toward him until she was standing beside him "Right Gin what I want you to practise is a little transfiguration, see that twig yeah, well I want you to turn it into a quill, like this," Harry said as he waved his hand gently toward the twig.
One second later a peacock quill lay where the twig had been.
"Bloomin eck Harry," Ginny said as she looked at the quill.
"You can do this Ginny," Hermione encouraged "just feel the magic in your hand, feel it like you were holding a wand."
It took two hours of constant work before Ginny finally managed to actually change the twig, it was a bit of a scraggily quill but it was a peacock quill. Over an hour later the three friends left the wood, Ginny carried a rather pretty peacock quill.
Sitting in the living room, Ginny, and Hermione were having a discussion about some thing girly or so Harry thought. Ron had just left them to go find some leftovers to eat when Hermione turned to him.
"Harry you know how difficult wandless magic is, well we were just wondering how come Ginny can do it, and how did you know?" she asked
"Simple really, according to the book I read, it's usually people like Ginny who have the power to do it, you know seventh child and all that." He answered.
"So someone born the seventh child has stronger magic than the normal witch or wizard, so what about me, I don't seem to have any problem with it at all." Hermione enquired.
"Well I think that's the bond we have being soul-mates, I think it made you and me a whole lot stronger when we kissed, though I'm not sure about that one," Harry told her "and besides you were always brilliant anyway so maybe it comes natural for you."
"What about you Harry, how come you are so powerful," Ginny was the one who asked but Harry was sure Hermione was wondering too.
"Well, I think it has something to do with the prophecy," he told them casually.
Hermione told Ginny all about the prophecy before she had chance to ask Harry about it, then Harry told her how Voldemort had planned to come back but they had foiled his plan and he was now dead so the prophecy was fulfilled.
Harry liked the fact that the trio now consisted of two girls and himself, he was happy being best friends with Ginny, they had the occasional joke about Ginny's early crush on the boy who lived. That evening Harry made arrangements with Mr Weasley for his trip to Diagon Alley. When he told Hermione she insisted they take Ginny with them.
Wednesday morning at nine o clock Harry, Hermione, and Ginny left the Burrow by floo, on arrival at the Leaky Cauldron Harry led the way to Gringotts bank. Once in the bank Harry introduced Hermione as his wife, they had a few parchments to sign and Hermione was granted full access to Harry's private vault. The visit to the vault to get some gold was a big surprise for Hermione, she stood in the doorway looking at the piles of gold, Ginny stood with them and her jaw dropped, she had never seen so much gold in her life.
"This is all yours Harry?" Hermione gasped as she waved her hand at the piles of money.
"Well it's ours now you are my wife, it gets topped up each year from the family vault," he told her.
"You mean you have another vault?" she asked shocked
"We do love, we have the Potter family vault, and the Potter estates and a few companies both wizard and Muggle," Harry answered
Ginny still not quite believing her eyes gave a small cough to clear her throat, "Good job your Aunt and Uncle don't know about this," she whispered.
"They are under the impression that I am on a government grant and I never bothered to alter that misconception," Harry laughed.
Harry collected two thousand Galleons, gave one to Hermione and put the other in his money pouch, Hermione complained about the amount because it would not fit in her shopping basket. The Goblin who had steered the cart to the vault gave her a money pouch to put the coins in.
"You can place as much as ten thousand Galleons in this pouch Mrs Potter as it is a magical one with a no weight spell on it," he said in a high squeaky voice.
Hermione eyes seemed to glaze over and a huge smile burst out on her face "Ooh Gin, did you hear that?" she said almost giggling.
"Hermione are you ok?" Harry and Ginny chorused.
"Oh I'm fine. He called me Mrs Potter," she said the silly grin on her face again "Oh Harry it sort of made it real; I really am Mrs Harry James Potter,"
Harry shrugged his shoulders "Women," he mumbled before helping the two girls back onto the cart that would take them back to the surface. Once upstairs in the main room of the bank Harry had Hermione join him at the exchange counter where they exchanged two hundred Galleons each. Now both in possession of a thousand Muggle pounds they made their way to the Leaky Cauldron, where they met Mrs Granger outside. Twenty minutes later Harry left the women to carry on with their shopping while he supposedly made his way back to the pub to wait for them.
chapter seven
Harry's plot was working well, after checking that no one was watching him he entered the jewellery shop hidden down a small side alley. Having had a look around the small shop, Harry enlisted the help of a young female assistant, he gave all the details about Hermione that he could, including how different and passionate she was in private. Which gave the assistant a smile as Harry turned bright red. Along with everything else he showed her two photos.
Within a few minutes Harry was looking through a selection of the chosen jewellery, it took him nearly half an hour to decide on the pieces he wanted, the assistant assured him that if his description of Hermione's personality was correct then his choice would be perfect, he prayed the assistant was right, the last thing he wanted to do was disappoint his wife on her birthday. Now all he had to do was keep the small package hidden from Hermione, easier said than done simply because she had taken to being a wife with every bit of determination she always did with every thing she did. She kept their quarters spotless and made sure he had clean clothes everyday. So wrapping it up in an old sock, his favourite option was out.
Hermione had spent an enjoyable morning shopping with her mother and Ginny, she had never before had the responsibility that comes with shopping as a married woman, her first purchases were all for Harry, new trousers shirts and shoes, along with several smaller items. Dresses and new under wear were bought for her self and Ginny, although it took her a while to get Ginny to accept the gifts.
That afternoon while Ron, the twins and Ginny went swimming in the Weasley pool, Hermione caught hold of Harry's hand and led him to the spot in the wood that had been shown to them by Ginny. Having found a nice comfortable spot under an old oak tree, Harry sat down his back resting on the rough trunk, Hermione sat on his lap and wriggled a little to get comfortable. Harry begged her not to wriggle again. 'You have no idea what that does to me' he groaned.
Hermione just giggled 'I have a very good idea Mr Potter'.
Visits to what was now their favourite spot were one of Harry's favourite pastimes, they spent entire afternoons alternating between kissing, and just sitting enjoying each others company and talking. Harry told her more and more about himself and life with his relations while Hermione told him about her life before Hogwarts. It was these times that helped Harry to make up his mind that their next holiday would be spent at the Potter ancestral home, a rather modest mansion in the Snowdonia district.
Ginny's progress with her wandless magic was slow, Hermione thought it might have a lot to do with age, "Our magic must get stronger as we grow older, just like any other part of us," She decided one day. "Ginny maybe you should stick to the simple stuff until you feel you can move on."
At eight am on Monday August the fourteenth, Hermione was fussing with the tie she had made him wear, "I'm not having my husband going into a ministry inquiry looking like a tramp," she huffed as Harry tried to stop her from choking him.
"Hermione love I've done this before, I'm sure they won't notice if my tie isn't perfectly straight," Harry said a little exasperated with her fussing.
"Harry Potter, that is not the attitude to take, good first impressions can make a big difference as to how people see you," Hermione said determined. Making Harry stand up straight she looked him over and sighed 'You are so handsome Harry'.
Harry and Mr Weasley left the Burrow at Eight thirty to meet with Sirius outside the Ministry offices. By nine they were led into a rather large room, "Conference room," Mr Weasley informed them as Harry looked around in surprise.
'Bit different than the last time I was summoned' Harry thought as he was shown to a rather comfortable armchair.
Sirius sat beside him looking as relaxed as he always did, Harry wondered if anything ever had Sirius looking serious, the chuckle that escaped him at the old joke had several of the wizards around the room glaring at him.
Some minute's later Madam Bones, minister for magic, entered along with Dumbledore and several other wizards and witches; Harry was questioned about the attempted attack on Hermione and her father, and his use of underage magic. To his surprise all the questions were asked in a polite manner, Dumbledore nodded to him as he gave his answers, the headmaster was obviously pleased that Harry was not intimidated by what was happening.
Madam Bones declared that everything was as expected and that the presentation could go ahead. Harry totally confused by the turn of events looked at Sirius who was sitting with a huge smile on his face; it was obvious he knew what was going on.
Madam Bones then announced that for services rendered to the community in bringing to justice Voldemort and four of his followers. Harry was to receive the Order of Merlin first class, taking his eyes off Sirius who was beaming at him, Harry turned to face forward again, the surprise he got stunned him for a few seconds before he sat up with a jerk.
Standing right in front of him looking just as toad like as before, stood Delores Umbridge, in her hand she held the square velvet box that contained the medal.
Harry got slowly to his feet, as Umbridge stepped forward, Harry put up his hand to stop her, there was no way he was going to accept anything off one of the few people in the world that he actually hated.
"Madam Bones. Members of the Wizengamont, I am afraid I can not accept this honour if people like Delores Umbridge are still employed by the ministry, this woman was amongst the names of those that supported Voldemort and practice dark magic," Harry said in a very commanding voice that had a few of the wizards move back slightly.
Umbridge took several steps back taking several deep breaths before she spoke in her sickly sweet voice "I have no idea what Mr Potter is talking about,"
Harry knew that he could not use the happenings of his previous life to accuse Umbridge but he knew what she was like, and for him it was enough, "if there is nothing else," he said before walking toward the door.
All around the room confused witches and wizards began to whisper to each other, no one had ever walked out on a presentation before.
Harry was halted as he reached the door when Madam Bones called to him, "Mr Potter, do you have any evidence against this woman."
Harry spun around "Search for the evidence, she no doubt still owns some blood quills and other dark magic objects," he replied before leaving.
Harry was stopped in the atrium by Dumbledore, who due to his inquisitive nature wanted some sort of explanation. It took Harry a while to reach a decision but he had made accusations he could prove in only one way.
"If you have a Pensieve professor I can show you what Umbridge is really like, the memory could not be used as evidence but it will convince you of the truth," he finally told his old mentor. Harry knew the risk he was taking after all Albus Dumbledore had not become a great wizard by being stupid.
Ten minute's later Harry was sitting in Madam Bones's office, watching as Madam Bones and Dumbledore viewed Harry's memory of Umbridge threatening to use the cruciatus curse on him. After they had studied the memory and determined it was not fake or one that had been tampered with they questioned him about it, Harry refused to answer their questions about the origins of the memory. "All you need know is it was real and that is the sort of person that you employ," Harry told them coldly.
Back in the Burrow that afternoon no one could decide whether to congratulate Harry or to commiserate with him. After explaining it all to Hermione she agreed that Harry had done the right thing. "It's not always easy to the right thing Harry," she told him wisely.
Sirius didn't know whether to be angry or proud and kept switching between the two moods, telling Harry off about having the nerve to refuse such an honour, and then saying how proud he felt to see him stand up for his principals, Ron was just plain confused by it all.
It was not until they were back in school that Harry found out that thanks to his memory Madam Bones had authorised a search of Deloris Umbridge's house where several dark artefacts had been discovered, it had also been discovered that she had kept notes on her various misdeeds that had helped in her rise within the ministry. She was now serving time in Azkaban.
Tuesday nineteenth of September was a rather pleasant day, Harry woke early hoping to get a few little things sorted before Hermione woke, he would probably have managed to sneak out of the bedroom quite easily if he had not been engrossed in watching Hermione sleeping, but not watching where he was walking Harry managed to stub his toe against a chair leg. The accompanying yell woke Hermione with a start. 'Oh well, I'll have to sort it at lunchtime' he told himself as he hopped around on one leg.
"Happy birthday sweetheart," he said as he bent over to kiss her. In the living room Harry transfigured a piece of parchment into a rather nice birthday card with a cat on the front, while Hermione took her shower, Harry struggled to find the words to write in the card. 'Seventy two years and I'm still hopeless at all this romance stuff' he thought as he finished writing.
'To my wonderful Hermione on your first birthday as my wife' Love Harry.
Hermione was delighted with the card, and thanking him almost made them too late for breakfast. Hand in hand they walked to the great hall where they joined Ron and Ginny at the Gryffindor table for breakfast. Hermione received cards from Ron, Ginny, Neville and Luna, before they had to leave for lessons Harry whispered to her, presents later love.
At lunch time Harry missed eating so that he could organise a small dinner party for eight that evening, having found all those he intended to invite he had just one more person to see, professor McGonagall.
Hermione told him off for missing lunch when he finally arrived in the great hall to late for the food. He promised to make up for being missing by cooking dinner for them later, just another surprise he had in store for his wife. He was a very good chef.
Everyone arrived just before eight including Ron who was usually a little late for such things, the guests Ginny, Neville, Ron, Luna, Dumbledore, and McGonagall were served with drinks, there was a nice red wine for the adults, Harry made sure everyone was sat down and comfortable at the slightly enlarged table. He placed Hermione at the head of the table with Dumbledore and McGonagall on her left and the others he just let take any seat except the one to the right of his wife.
Harry with the help of Dobby served the meal he had cooked, roast fillet of beef with mushroom and tarragon sauce. Harry had done a good job he decided when he looked around at the contented faces of their guests. Every one commented on just how tasty the meal was. As the final napkin was dropped onto a rather clean plate, Harry nodded to Neville, who then gave Hermione her birthday present, just a few minutes later and Harry was the only one left who had not yet given her his gift.
As Harry pulled the small velvet covered box from his pocket McGonagall and Dumbledore rose from their chairs and stood behind Hermione.
Hermione looked puzzled as she looked over each shoulder to see where her guests were going, she was quite surprised to see them just standing one either side of her, a small cough from Harry brought her attention back to him, Harry opened the box and pulled out three rings, two wedding rings and an engagement ring.
"Hermione love I want everyone to know that you are my wife, I love you more than words can give description, I hope that these rings will show you just a little of that love," having said his little prepared speech Harry placed the wedding and engagement rings on Hermione's finger. Dumbledore cast the bonding and marriage spells, while McGonagall cast the anti theft and loss along with the size charms.
Hermione's eyes were brimming with tears as she hugged Harry as tight as she could; it was a while before she was able to show her guests the rings. The engagement ring was a medium sized one and a half carat royal blue sapphire with a pink sapphire either side, all set on a band of white gold. The wedding ring was white gold with three small blue sapphires set into it.
After all of them had admired her rings Harry offered her the box, inside was a wedding ring for Harry, it was of the same design as hers but without the stones.
Hermione placed the ring on Harry's finger and Dumbledore and McGonagall performed the same charms. Ginny sat at the table with tears falling, Neville looked like his eyes were filling up, Ron said "blooming soppy stuff," while Luna gave Hermione and Harry an extra strong hug.
A/N. The sapphire would seem the perfect ring for Hermione as she has all the qualities associated with it.
-September Birth Stone: Sapphire
In ancient times the sky was believed to be a gigantic blue sapphire stone into which the earth is embedded. The Sapphire is found in all the colours of the sky as well as greyish misty blue and all of the colours of the sunset like yellow, pink, orange and purple; except for red. In fact, a red sapphire is actually a ruby. Interestingly, a large percentage of the population favours the colours blue and it's connected to sympathy and harmony, friendship and loyalty. Sapphire blue is related to reliability, loyalty, faithfulness, love and yearning and is, like aquamarine, a gem for couples and lovers. Sapphires are also connected to identifying liars, protection from dark magic, visions and the ability to read the future.
I don't know if this is allowed but…
Chapter Eight
Albus Dumbledore headmaster of Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry sat in his usual seat at breakfast in the great hall, and watched the commotion as the female population gathered around the head of the Gryffindor table, the interest in Mrs Hermione Potters' wedding ring was causing quite a stir.
Albus Pondered on the meal the night before, it had been a most delicious meal and he would have to admit it had been expertly cooked; it was just another little hint about his favourite pupil Harry Potter. The past few months Harry had shown quite a great deal of power and knowledge for someone so young, then there was his so called visions that had lead to the defeat of Tom Riddle and four of his top henchmen. These facts alone had puzzled him but now he had something new to add to the collection, Harry's memory of Deloris Umbridge. It had been a real memory, not something from a vision or something made up, it had been real. The question was when could Harry have obtained such a memory, Umbridge had never taught at the school, and had never had the opportunity to wield the power of headmistress. 'Time, Time is what I need, indeed it's an odd thing time' he said to himself as a theory began to develop in his astute mind.
While Dumbledore pondered the new events, Harry and Hermione were the centre of attention, well Hermione was. Girl after girl came to admire her new rings, even the girls from the Slytherin house were queuing to take a look. Hermione was whispering to Ginny that her arm was beginning to ache with all the lifting to show the admirers, many oohs and aahs were heard around the table that morning.
The rest of the term was unremarkable as far as Harry was concerned; he had no more Dark Lord trying to kill him. No ministry trying to discredit him, in fact the most exciting thing that happened to him all term was while in potions. Professor Snape insulted Hermione and made a reference to her being Muggle born. Harry stood from behind his desk and approached Snape.
"Excuse me Sir, but you will not insult my wife, in fact you will in future be quite civil to her," Harry said quite boldly.
"I beg your pardon," Snape hissed at Harry "just who do you think you are talking too?"
Harry leant forward and spoke so only Snape could hear him "How would it look if memories of your love for a Muggle born witch were released, memories of you and your best friend, my mother," Harry asked quietly.
For the first time Harry could remember he saw Snape blush and he was sure he saw a tear in the normally cold black eyes. Snape was quite polite to most of his pupils from that day on, and did in fact begin to help his students instead of intimidating them.
Harry was convinced that Snape was actually enjoying teaching properly, although he never had proof of it.
Dumbledore thought the sudden change in Severus Snape was just another piece in the jig saw puzzle that was Harry Potter, and he was certain he had come to the correct conclusion, though how it had been done he was yet to discover. 'Time' he thought 'is the answer'.
Two weeks before the Christmas holiday began Harry called Dobby into his quarters and asked the elf if he could visit Potter House and check what needed to be done to prepare the house for habitation, and if it could all be done for the beginning of the holiday. Having given his small friend directions and a piece of parchment with the address on Harry joined Hermione in the bedroom.
Dobby returned before breakfast the following morning "Harry Potter sir," he whispered as he shook Harry awake, Harry shushed the elf and whispered for him to wait in the other room while he dressed. Five minutes later Dobby was telling Harry.
"Potter House is ready for the master, six house elves have kept the house ready for you Harry Potter sir, they all is looking forward to meeting you again." Dobby told Harry excitedly. "Would Harry Potter sir need another elf sir, for the holiday sir, Dobby is a good worker sir."
Harry could not resist the little fellows pleading eyes "Ok Dobby you can spend Christmas at Potter House with us, ok."
A letter to Sirius asking that he invite the Grangers and the Weasleys to spend the break with them at his ancestral home was sent by Harry as soon as Dobby had returned to the kitchen. He also asked Sirius if he could have the floo network to the house working by the holiday.
A week later Harry recruited Ginny to help with his plans for the holiday, she was to figure a way to get Ron and the twins into a limousine that would drive them to his home, she was not to let any of them know their destination and was also to keep it quiet from Hermione, who he told her, he was going to carry over the threshold, an old Muggle custom for newly weds when they first arrived home. Ginny with her Weasley sense of adventure agreed and enthusiastically went about devising all sorts of plots to get her brothers to Wales.
On the train ride to London Ginny failed to get the twins to sit in the same compartment they were in, which had Harry a little worried but Ginny never stopped smiling the whole journey. Hermione was expecting her parents to pick her up and was dreading being parted from Harry for Christmas. As his wife she wanted to spend this special time, their first anniversary with him.
Hermione was quite surprised when they arrived at Kings Cross and her parents had not shown up. Harry talked her into getting into the limo with him, though it really did not take a lot of persuading he just mentioned that maybe now that she was a married woman her parents expected her to be with her husband.
Ginny's plan to get the Weasleys in to the other Limousine worked perfectly, she had made arrangements for the driver to be holding a card that said Weasley family this way.
Their journey to Wales was uneventful; they were driven to a deserted lane just outside a large village by the name of Cerrig y Druidion. As the cars drove away two large gates became visible, with a word from Harry the gates swung open, a three hundred yard walk dragging their trunks behind them brought them in sight of Potter House, it was a huge ancient building in stone. Harry stood staring for a while, he had never visited before, never having found reason to, and had no idea the house would be so big. Finally pulling himself together Harry led the way to the large double front doors. Hermione on his arm and the Weasley boys wondering what was going on followed Ginny.
As Harry walked up the steps with Hermione beside him the doors opened and they were greeted by an old house elf dressed in a neat tea towel like toga, the Potter crest on the front.
"Welcome home master Harry, it's so good to see you after so many years," the elf welcomed.
Hermione noticed that the elf did not bow and was quite surprised by the fact. Harry suddenly swept Hermione into his arms and picked her up, one arm around her back the other arm behind her knees, walking forward Harry whispered in her ear "Welcome home Mrs Potter."
Hermione was totally surprised by Harry's move, she had never expected to be carried over the threshold but she was overjoyed by the unexpected move.
'Oh Harry, we have a home of our own' she thought as a small tear slid down her cheek.
Once in the foyer Harry placed Hermione carefully back on her feet. They were joined by the Weasleys, Ron gave a long loud gasp and Ginny let out a breathy whistle, "some place you have here," one of the twins said.
"Yeah," Harry replied as he looked around at the splendour of his home, 'Wow Hermione this is way more than I expected'.
As the teenagers looked around they were joined by Mr and Mrs Granger, who was followed by Mrs Weasley, huge hugs were held all around as the greetings were given.
Hermione having extricated herself from another bone crushing hug from Mrs Weasley looked around at her new home, they were standing in a huge foyer that was larger than the whole Dursley house. To the left and right large curved marble staircases led up to the first floor, above that there were five more floors. The floor was covered in polished black slate, 'Harry it's like a palace' she gasped as she took it all in. they learned later that there were twenty bedrooms all with their own bathroom; a large bright and airy library covered a huge area at the rear of the house.
Mrs Weasley complained to Hermione that she had been unable to locate the kitchen again having once visited it. Later Hermione was informed by the old elf by the name of Glanry that the cook had placed a charm on the kitchen so that every time the bossy red haired woman looked for it, she would not be able to find it, and hoped that the mistress would not be angry. "She kept trying to do cooks job," he said as though Mrs Weasley had committed a crime.
Hermione stifled a laugh and asked that cook allow Mrs Weasley in the kitchen to cook supper, just to keep her happy.
"You really are a wonderful wife," Harry whispered as he listened to her talk with the head elf "and a diplomatic one as well."
The head elf called a young female elf into the foyer, "Erin, show the master and mistress around the house, please."
The young elf beamed "Oh it will be a great honour, to show Sir and Madam the house."
Their tour ended in the master bedroom, it was a huge room with an equally huge bed, "I may have to change that bed," Harry said seriously
"Why what ever's the matter with it? It looks delightful to me," Hermione asked
"It's big enough to loose you in, and that's the last thing I want to do," Harry laughed.
'Harry this place is amazing, I never realised you were so wealthy. I wonder how much land there is' Hermione thought as they sat on the large bed.
'Hermione Potter how many times do you need to be told, it's we that are wealthy not just me' Harry thought a little annoyed 'we have been married a year now and you should know by now we share everything'
Down stairs in the living room a large banner courtesy of the twins was floating just bellow the ceiling. 'Happy Anniversary Harry and Hermione' kept flashing in red and gold. Much to the annoyance of Glanry.
Ginny went on her own tour of the house and soon found her trunk in a room that she thought large enough to play quidditch in.
Later that day just after Sirius arrived, a tired and well fed group of teenagers decided it was time for bed; they were just leaving the living room when Mr Weasley arrived from the ministry, looking almost as tired as they felt. After greetings were exchanged the teens turned in for the night.
Harry and Hermione lay in bed, i'It's like a fairy tale Harry' Hermione thought to him just before they fell asleep.
'Yeah, just like a fairy tale' Harry thought.
Harry sat in the library totally relaxed and happy as he watched his wife Hermione pour over books she had not seen before. To see her so happy made him feel like a king, he had no worries, thanks to good management of the Potter family investments by their personal representative at Gringotts, a Goblin by the name of Griphook, all his family fortune seemed to be secure, he had an enormous annual income, no one was, as far as he knew, trying to kill him, and he was married to the most brilliant and beautiful witch he had ever met. Yes Harry was happier than he had ever been. This was his second Christmas as a married man although he was inclined to ignore the first one due to the unusual circumstances of his marriage to Hermione. Harry planned to enjoy the freedom of living in his own home afforded him, if and when he could figure out what to do first.
Harry looked out of the large windows and was pleasantly surprised by the rare appearance in Britain of snow, it was rare indeed for snow to fall at this time of year, but there outside his window huge white flakes were drifting slowly down.
'Hermione love, it's snowing, two days before Christmas, and we have snow falling' he thought to her.
'Harry love don't forget according to the map we are over a thousand feet above sea level, it probably snows up here quite often' Hermione answered
'Fancy building a snowman if it keeps snowing?' he asked smiling
'What we should do is go shopping, we don't have any presents bought for the Weasleys yet' came her reply
'Blooming eck I forgot, what with sorting everything else, how could I forget?' Harry said as he called for his head house elf.
Seconds later the old elf appeared. "Ah Glanry how far do the anti apparation wards go?" Harry asked.
"Right to the boundary sir, the closest point outside the wards is just outside the main gate," Glanry replied before asking if the master or mistress wanted anything "a pot of tea maybe, oh we have another guest though he refuses to act like one and insists he is here to work."
"Don't tell me let me guess, could it be a house elf by the name of Dobby," Harry laughed.
"That would be the one sir," Glanry said with the faintest trace of a smile showing.
"Could you be good enough to find him some work or something, just to keep him happy," Harry grinned
Glanry nodded then turned to leave "Master Harry should remove his feet from the table, your mother would not like it sir."
'Did I just get told off for having my feet up' Harry sent to Hermione.
'Yes dear you did, he told Sirius to sit up straight this morning at breakfast' Hermione gave what was almost a giggle 'Sirius said he was the main etiquette teacher for the potter family and he taught both your father Remus, Sirius, and Peter, how to behave'
'The blooming cheek' Harry thought indignantly 'told off by my bloomin house elf'
Ten minutes later Harry had his feet on the table in front of him, a soft pop behind him had Harry falling from his chair as he tried to quickly remove his feet from the table.
Hermione laughed as she watched him struggle "Yes Erin, what is it dear?" she asked the elf who had appeared.
"Glanry says that elevenses are ready for the Master and Mistress," she answered
"Ok Erin we will be there in a few moments." Hermione smiled kindly at the small creature.
'Oh Harry I don't like being called the mistress, why can't they just call us by our names' she moaned.
'That's not their way Hermione and you can't change them, believe me I tried with Dobby and he's free, and before you go on about setting our elves free remember what being free did to poor old Winky' Harry thought.
Sitting in the dining room with the Weasley family, Harry was informed by Ron that they had found a quidditch pitch and were intending to have a game after they had finished their tea. Harry declined the offer to join them adding that he and Hermione might go for a walk.
As soon as the Weasleys left the house for the pitch Harry grabbed Hermione's hand and dragged her into their bedroom.
'Whoo, Harry Potter what have you got on your mind?' Hermione chuckled.
'How about a trip to Diagon Alley? We could grab our coats and be there in a few seconds' he replied
'Harry you are not thinking of breaking the rules again?' Hermione asked a little worried.
'Do you fancy a shopping trip or not? Besides I didn't get you a present' Harry said pouting a little as he left the bedroom 'back in a few seconds love'
True to his word Harry was back a few seconds later carrying their coats, 'Right wrap up warm love, it's going to be a little cold out there' he thought as he pulled his heavy coat closed.
"Dobby!" Harry called once they were both ready. The sound of the elf appearing made Harry smile. "Hi Dobby, would you like to do Hermione and I a favour? We need to go to Diagon Alley to do some shopping, and I wondered if you would take us."
"Dobby is happy to help Harry Potter and His Hermione, very happy," the little elf replied as he placed himself between the two Potters and taking hold of their arms he vanished with a loud crack taking Harry and Hermione with him.
A few short seconds later they arrived outside Gringotts bank. Hermione seemed amazed that Dobby was able to transport them through the anti apparation charms of Potter house.
'Hermione love, are you ok?'
'Yes I just forgot for a moment that elves are not restricted by our magic' Hermione answered 'so where to first Mr Potter?'
'How about we get the Weasley gifts first, then you and I can take a wander around, maybe call in to check on the new books' Harry said grinning, he knew Hermione would like that idea.
While they were shopping Hermione came across some rather pretty but expensive necklaces, one of the shop assistants approached her.
"They're called winter warmers, they keep the person wearing them warm in temperatures down to fifteen degrees below zero, we also have a version for Muggles, it uses the same charm but it has been altered so that it will work for any Muggle," she said as she showed Hermione a very similar item with the name Muggle warmers.
'How about we get one each for your Mum, Mrs Weasley, and Ginny, we could get one for Ron but I don't think he would be too happy wearing it' Harry thought as he leant over her shoulder placing a kiss on her neck just below her ear, Hermione almost moaned out loud.
'Harry behave your self, you know what that does to me' Hermione scolded
Harry moved away to look at some watches, chuckling all the time, 'I know wicked aren't I'.
Two hours later and laden with packages Harry, Hermione, and Dobby reached the Leaky Cauldron, Dobby offered to take their packages back to Potter House then return for them. Harry thanked his little friend just before he vanished.
'We should get Dobby something' Harry sent to Hermione 'but I have no idea what'.
'We could get him a jumper, it's going to be cold at home' Hermione replied.
A huge grin appeared on Harry's face 'Hermione, you just said home'.
'Well that's how I feel about Potter House, I know it's big and a little posh but it's the first house we have lived in as man and wife, and you did carry me over the threshold, so yeah it's home' Hermione replied smiling back at him.
Hermione decided that while Harry went into the Leaky Cauldron and ordered the meals, she would pop across the street to buy a Jumper for Dobby's Christmas present.
Five minutes later Harry was talking to Tom the innkeeper when Hermione's voice interrupted him.
'Harry you aren't going to believe this but the shop is being robbed, there are six wizards in Death Eater masks and they have all of us standing at the counter'.
'Well don't panic love, can you tell me where the robbers are' he asked.
Hermione gave him a fair idea of the whereabouts of five of the robbers; the sixth one had gone up to the shop office and was no longer on the shop floor.
'Ok love I'll be there in a second' Harry informed her.
"Tom there are robbers across at Madam Malkin's, I think they are after the takings. Would you mind keeping our food warm for us? I'll be back shortly" with that said Harry rushed from the pub.
Harry apparated silently into the shop behind the nearest robber, with a quick flick of his wrist he placed a silencing charm around the supposed Death Eater then quickly stunned him and tied him up. Harry had caught four of the robbers using the same method and was just sneaking up on the fifth when the door to the shop opened and an old lady walked in. The last remaining robber in the shop turned around then gasped when he saw Harry standing just two feet in front of him, before he could aim his wand Harry reacted, planting a right upper cut to the mans jaw. He was out before he hit the floor.
Just as Harry was binding his captive the remaining robber returned from the office holding the weekly takings in a sack. Harry had not seen the man as he raised his wand and pointed it at his back. Half a second later the miscreant was sailing backward through racks of robes, a rather angry Hermione was shouting
"HOW DARE YOU POINT YOUR WAND AT MY HUSBAND," the commotion making Harry spin around.
"Stupefy," Hermione said as the man landed hard on his back.
Harry looked at the damage created when the robber had been flung backward through six clothes racks and a thin partition. 'Heck love what did you do' Harry said in awe.
'I don't know Harry, I just got angry and thought 'no' when he pointed his wand at your back, I don't remember casting any spell'she returned
'Boy remind me not to get you angry' Harry thought laughing
Aurors turned up moments later and took statements yet again about Harry's capture of six so called Death Eaters, "Only five, the wife got one," Harry told the Auror in charge. Harry then refused to be kept away from his lunch any longer and told the Auror if he needed to ask any more questions he would have to join them in the Leaky Cauldron.
Madam Malkin informed Hermione that the mess could be cleaned up and that there was little real damage done, she then refused to take payment for the jumper Hermione wished to buy.
Lunch for three was on a table waiting for them when Harry and Hermione arrived in the pub, Dobby was waiting by the door for them. Harry and Hermione took their seats while Dobby stood behind Harry's chair.
"Dobby my little pal, if you think I am going to pass you your lunch a fork full at a time you can think again," Harry said as he smiled at the little elf "Now come on and sit with us and eat your lunch."
Dobby had seen Harry's kindness before, but for some reason he had not expected to be treated in this way in a public place, the look of total surprise on his face had both Harry and Hermione laughing.
A few minutes into the meal some wizards at a table across from Harry began making remarks about the standard of the place being lowered by allowing house elves to eat at the tables. Tom the barman saw the look in Hermione's eye and Harry's reaction to the look, to avert trouble he rushed over to Harry.
"Excuse me Mr Potter sir is there anything else you would like, Madam Malkin has paid for your meal as a thank you for catching those SIX Death Eaters today," Tom said emphasising the word six even louder than the words Death Eaters.
Harry asked Tom to pass on his thanks to Madam Malkin; the wizards opposite fell extremely quiet before trying to sneak out of the pub.
"You might want to mind your manners in future or my wife might just take offence," Harry said to them as they reached the door.
Dobby smiled "Harry Potter sir is truly a great wizard."
Christmas day both Harry and Hermione were awake early and were waiting at breakfast when they were joined by their guest's, Ron surprised every one by actually being the last to arrive. The first thing Hermione did when everyone was seated was to hand them a small package each, all except the twins who she gave an envelope with both their names on it.
Sirius, Mr Weasley, and Ron, each received a moon watch that had a changing face. Mrs Weasley, Ginny, and Hermione's mum each got a warming necklace, while everyone was examining and admiring their gifts; the twins sat staring at a piece of parchment.
One of the twins was about to ask Harry a question when he gave them a look that told them to be quiet, with a quick flick of his head Harry indicated for the twins to follow him out of the room.
Harry headed for the front door followed by Fred and George, once outside Harry began to speak "I thought you wanted Weasley Wizard Wheezes kept quiet."
"We do," replied Fred "but what is the parchment for?"
"Well I thought you two would have figured it out straight away," Harry chuckled "seems you're not as clever as I thought."
"Fred you red haired twit," George gasped "the marauders map."
Fred slapped a hand to his forehead while George tapped his wand on the parchment "I solemnly swear I am up to no good."
George's eyes nearly popped out of his face, "This is a rental agreement for a shop in Diagon Alley with a nominal rent of two Galleons a year."
"Yeah well when I got married I came into all my families' properties, and this shop was one of them, I know I don't intend to be a shopkeeper, so it's yours for as long as you want it," Harry told them.
All the back slapping and thanks from the twins left Harry with a slightly sore shoulder when he finally escaped from them and ran back into the house.
Harry handed a small box to Hermione "Happy Christmas sweetheart," he said as he gave her a kiss.
Hermione opened the box and found a beautiful watch that matched her engagement ring.