Reign O'er Me

cts

Story Summary:
This fic picks up from where OotP ended; unlike many fics dealing with this period that are angst-ridden, this fic explores a different direction - what might happen if Harry should instead start to get his life together.

Chapter 26

Chapter Summary:
Harry learns what Voldemort tossed to Dumbledore, another trip to Diagon Alley where one surprise waits and another is prepared, Ron discloses his secret errand... and a pickup game of Quidditch, and a song.
Posted:
03/23/2005
Hits:
2,488


Chapter 26 - New Song

I write the same old song with a few new lines,
And everybody wants to cheer it.
I write the same old song you heard a good few times,
Admit you really want to hear it.

You need a new song,
I'll set the words up so they tear right at your soul.

- New Song, The Who


"Hermione, I wonder if you would be so kind as to show me to your library?" Nicholas asked. "I think it likely that it would have a book I would like to consult, and that would save me a trip back to Hogwarts."

"Certainly, Professor," Hermione said as she stood up.

Nicholas made a slight gesture towards Ginny, who rose to accompany them. "And I'll help. Harry, remember: you and Jamie need to be downstairs in a little less than fifteen minutes."

"Okay, Gin." Harry watched them file out, and then said, "I have some pictures of our parents, if you'd like to see them."

Jamie settled beside him on the sofa as Harry placed the book in her hands. She opened it to the first page. "The people... they're moving!"

Harry chuckled, remembering the first time he had seen a wizard photograph. "Yes, they do that in the magical world."

"Can they see... or hear us?"

"No, these are just... pictures. Though there are some portraits that can... I don't think there are any here, at least not any more, but I can show you at Hogwarts."

"Our mother... she was... beautiful."

"You're the lucky one, you know. You look a lot like her."

"Our father isn't bad-looking either. And you look like him... at least when you smile." Jamie pointed to a picture that Harry knew had been taken at their parents' wedding.

"Yeah, that's what everyone's always told me, that I looked just like him at whatever age."

"They weren't a whole lot older than you are now in some of these."

"Some of these were taken at Hogwarts while they were there. There's one with Sirius."

"He looks... different."

"I know."

"I recognize Professor Lupin. Do you know who the little guy is that's in a lot of these?"

"That's Wormtail... his real name is Peter Pettigrew. He's the one who sold out... the one who ratted Mum and Dad out to Voldemort," Harry said bitterly. "But he's also the one who told us about you."

"Who's this big dude?"

"That's Hagrid. You'll meet him at Hogwarts. He's the one who came for me when I was eleven. Hagrid was the first person from our world I met. I think you'll like him. And that's Professor McGonagall, the transfiguration teacher. She looks a bit older now, and she's very strict, most of the time."

Jamie turned the page. "Wow!"

Harry grinned. "That's the castle from across the lake. If you look right above and to the right of Sirius, you can see one of the goals on the Quidditch pitch. Hey, we'd better hurry, or we'll be late."

They flipped through the rest of the book; Harry told Jamie she could keep it for now and he would see if a copy could be made for her. As they rose from the sofa, he was starting to lead the way to the door when Jamie touched his arm. He stopped and turned, and she awkwardly pulled him towards her. Harry took a half-step towards Jamie and wrapped an arm around her back. "I'm not very good at this," Jamie whispered.

Something suddenly clicked into place for Harry. "Proficiency in anything requires practice, you know."

"I guess I need a lot of practice."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Breakfast suddenly became an adventure when Molly learned of their plans. Harry found himself in the unusual position of being on the other end of one of her rants. Eventually - when they were finally able to get a few words in - the combined reassurance of both Flamels persuaded Molly that this was not a totally irresponsible plan. Molly had started to apologize, but Harry said, "I know you were just worried about us." Harry grinned. "It's okay, Mum. You're finally treating me like everyone else." Molly smiled, and then spent the next few minutes at the sink.

Climbing the stairs after their meal, Ginny asked Jamie if she needed something to sleep in.

"I don't think I brought the pajamas from Joe's."

"Not a problem, I know just the thing," Ginny replied.

Ron nudged Harry and said in a stage whisper, "I think you just lost another pair, mate."

"Are they really that comfortable, Ginny?" Hermione asked.

"Ah-huh; don't take my word for it; give it a try."

"Ron has plenty," Harry added helpfully.

"Maybe I will," Hermione replied, taking Ron by the hand and tugging him along as they reached the third floor. Harry stood watching them as Ginny led Jamie up the next fight of stairs; shaking his head, he started to follow them when he heard... something. He stood still, listening carefully, and heard another sound. It sounded like a scream, and it seemed to be coming from the Library.

Harry pulled his wand and listened carefully outside the door. Not hearing anything further, he eased the door open and slipped in. There, seated at the table, was Professor Dumbledore. He did not look up or otherwise acknowledge Harry's presence. As he watched, Dumbledore waved his hand and a robed and hooded figure appeared above the table, similar to what Harry had seen projected above a Pensieve. As he watched, the figure shrank back, holding up its arm as if to defend itself; then the hood fell back. Harry could see the figure was a woman; as he watched, the figure called out, "Albus!!! Do not be tempted! I love..." Something seemed to happen; there was a terrible scream as the figure collapsed and deformed... and the image faded.

Dumbledore sat there unmoving for several seconds, and then waved his hand again. As Harry watched, the sequence played again. This time, as it completed, Dumbledore bowed his head and haltingly said, "Now, only now, do I finally understand."

Harry took several steps toward the table, but Dumbledore gave no indication he was aware of Harry's approach. "Professor Dumbledore?"

Dumbledore sat unmoving for a moment before looking up. "I'm sorry, Harry; I'm afraid I was distracted for a moment."

"Was that Cassandra Trelawney?"

"Then you... saw?"

Harry nodded. "I'm sorry, Professor. I thought I heard something. I didn't mean to intrude."

"What you saw, Harry, were her last moments... Voldemort has found some means of extracting the echoes from the wands he seems indeed to have. But he would not have chosen the images he sent had he understood their context."

"I don't understand, Professor."

"Those were... Cassandra's last words to me, Harry. They made little sense to me at the time, as we confronted Grindelwald. I have long pondered their meaning. Until today."

"I'm sorry, Professor."

"Thank you, Harry, but that was many, many years ago."

"No - I thought you could never understand how I've felt... the things I said when I thought Sirius was dead... And even now..."

"Almost all of us have suffered loss, Harry. And there is nothing more painful than knowing that a loved one has perished through one's own failure. The only choices are to go on or to give up. And after she... after she... No, Harry, I could not allow her sacrifice to be for naught. And yes, even now, I feel her loss as if it were yesterday."

"Will you tell me about her, Professor? I've heard she was a great seer, but never more than that."

"That's not an accident, Harry. After Riddle... No, that too can wait for later. But... there are things that you now need to know, and I will tell you.... But... I would beg you to give me a little time. Hearing her voice again..."

"I understand, Professor. She must have been a truly exceptional person if the two of you were together."

"She was, Harry, indeed she was." Dumbledore managed a faint smile. "Thank you for reminding me that we shared many good times, too."

"Later today, Professor, we want to go to Diagon Alley, to get a wand for Jamie... The Flamels said they would go with us."

"It may indeed be your best chance. I should return to Hogwarts; there are things that I must now set in motion."

"Come with us, please, Professor? You enjoyed it last time."

"Perhaps I shall, Harry, perhaps I shall."

"If you would like to rest - I've asked Dobby to wake us at about one - pick any empty bedroom; there are several on this floor. There's always a place for you here."

"Thank you, Harry. I believe I shall take you up on your kind offer."

They both stood up, Dumbledore pocketing the small device from the table. As they left the library, Harry said, "I think all of the rooms down that hallway past the first two on each side are free."

"Then I will see you in a few hours." Dumbledore walked down the hallway as Harry continued up the stairs. As he climbed into bed beside Ginny, she drowsily curled against him; a few moments later he, too, was asleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When Dobby came to wake them up, Harry did regret not being able to sleep for a couple more hours. It took him a little effort, but he woke Ginny up, and after a shower, they were both wide awake and eager to be on their way.

Coming out of their bedroom, they found Ron, Hermione, and Jamie waiting in the sitting room. "High time, you two," Ron said.

They padded down the stairs and found Dumbledore and the Flamels waiting in the kitchen. Perenelle said, "Shall we be on our way? I have prepared a portkey and will take Jamie; I believe it would be good for the four of you to Apparate."

"Are you up to it?" Ron whispered to Hermione.

"I'm fine, Ron." She disappeared with a crack.

A short time later they were all in Diagon Alley. Jamie looked about in wonder while Harry grinned, remembering his own introduction to the wizarding world with Hagrid.

"Where will you begin?" asked Dumbledore, who seemed to enjoy Jamie's reaction as much as Harry did.

"I'd like to go to Ollivander's first," Hermione said. "I feel... um, helpless without a wand."

"That's a historic first," Ron said with a grin.

"Flourish & Blotts should be next, of course; Jamie will need textbooks."

"That's my Hermione. Why would anyone in their right mind shop for the lighter things first?"

It was a slow walk through the alley, with Jamie stopping every few steps to look at some new wonder. When they finally arrived outside Ollivander's, Dumbledore and the Flamels indicated that they would wait outside, and Ron also said that he wanted to make a quick stop at another shop. "No doubt he wants to see what's new at Quality Quidditch Supplies," Hermione whispered to Ginny.

Ron moved off down the street as the other four young people entered the wand shop. Mr. Ollivander was behind the counter; he looked up as they entered, and recognizing Harry, said, "Ah, Mr. Potter, I've been expecting you."

"Expecting me, sir?"

"Indeed." Ollivander's eyes narrowed as the four spread out; he looked rapidly between Ginny and Jamie, then closely at Harry again. "And now, I believe I understand. I did not know you had any close relatives, Mr. Potter."

"This is my sister, Mr. Ollivander, Jamie Potter."

"I'm pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss Potter. Now, as to your wands..."

"Both Jamie and Hermione need wands," Harry said.

"But surely you expected the others as well, Mr. Potter?"

"I'm... I'm afraid I don't understand, sir."

"Several days ago, Mr. Potter, as I came downstairs from my flat to my worktable, I found four phoenix feathers, and laid out beside them, four lengths of wood. One was holly, another hazel, and the last two were elder. Beside them was a bit of parchment with your family shield." As he spoke, he placed four boxes on the counter.

"I... see," Harry said.

"Three of the feathers were from one bird that I did not immediately recognize; the other feather was from Fawkes. Which of you would like to go first?"

"Go on, Jamie," Harry whispered, nudging her forward.

"I would, sir," she said.

"I have not sold you a wand before," Ollivander said. "Will this be your first wand, Miss Potter?"

"Yes, sir."

"You're a bit older than is usual for a first wand, but no matter." Ollivander's tape measure crawled over her for several moments before he took it and glanced at it briefly. He then opened one of the boxes and presented Jamie with a wand. After a moment he said, "Well, go ahead, swish it."

Jamie twirled the wand in an arc, and was rewarded with colorful sparks and a golden glow.

Ollivander asked, "Mr. Potter, by chance have you or Miss, no, I'm sorry, Mrs. Potter broken your wands?"

"No, sir," Harry said.

"Then I believe this second elder wand is intended for Miss Potter as well." Ollivander handed Jamie another wand. "Set the first one down and try this one, young lady."

This wand also produced colored sparks and a glow in Jamie's hand.

"Both wands are made from elder; the first is twelve inches; a powerful wand, well suited for transfiguration and conjuring. The second is ten inches and somewhat more flexible: a good wand for more subtle work. Fawkes gave the feather for this wand. Now, who is next? Mr. or Mrs. Potter?"

Harry and Ginny exchanged a glance; Ginny stepped forward. "Mrs. Potter, as I recall your current wand is willow, ten and a half inches; a nice supple wand quite suitable for charms, even if not your ideal wood. This wand, however, is made of hazel and is eleven and a half inches long: a good all-around wand. It is pliable and well suited for transfiguration or Defense Against the Dark Arts. If you would, try it after placing your current wand on the counter."

Ginny swished the new wand, and again there came the colored sparks and a glow.

"It seems this wand is quite suitable for you as well, Mrs. Potter. You may find slightly better results with it than with your first wand, as this one is made from your proper wood. Now, Mr. Potter?" Ollivander held out the final wand to Harry. "Another holly wand; this one is thirteen inches long, not quite so supple as your first wand, but still quite flexible, and it is suitable for powerful magic. This would be a particularly fine wand for an Auror or anyone primarily concerned with Defense Against the Dark Arts."

Harry waved the new wand after placing his old wand on the counter. This new wand also proved to be compatible with him.

"Now, Miss Granger, I believe that you also required a new wand?"

Hermione stepped up to the counter and went through three wands before finding a proper fit. She then asked to purchase a spare; that took her through several more wands before she found a second wand that chose her.

Harry paid for all of the wands himself, over Hermione's objections, while Mr. Ollivander grumbled about the newfangled Gringotts card. After thanking Mr. Ollivander, they were starting to leave when he asked, "Is that Albus Dumbledore I see standing outside my shop?"

Harry turned and nodded. "He came with us."

"Would you kindly ask him to step in for a moment? There's a matter that I need to discuss with him; I shall not hold him up long."

"Certainly, sir." Harry had a pretty good idea of why Mr. Ollivander wanted Dumbledore.

On reaching the street, Harry recounted a very quick version of what had just happened, and then relayed Mr. Ollivander's request. Dumbledore exchanged a quick look with each of the Flamels, and then entered the shop.

The three girls were busy comparing wands, as Hermione explained Ollivander's comments to Jamie, but Harry took a step away and looked back and forth between Nicholas and Perenelle. "Will either of you explain to me what just happened?" he asked, looking pointedly at their joined fingers.

"Harry, lapin...at this point we suspect more than we know, and I will share that with you when we return to Grimmauld Place."

"Mr. Ollivander said that only one of the feathers was from Fawkes." Harry hadn't mentioned that detail in his brief summary; he looked at Perenelle expectantly.

"Your guess, Harry, I suspect, is the same as ours. But do not name it here. Even under a truce flag, there are still many ears."

Harry nodded and attempted to curb his impatience. As they stood waiting, Harry spotted Ron approaching from further up the street. He seemed to be quite pleased about something; Hermione took one look and asked, "What new and wonderful things does Quality Quidditch Supplies have, Ronald?"

"Why... I have no idea," Ron said, his grin growing even wider. "We can go there next and find out."

"Why don't we just take it in order?" Harry suggested. "I need to stop at Gringotts, and it's on the way, and the bookstore still comes before Quality Quidditch Supplies."

"And Florean Fortescue's comes before Flourish and Blotts," Ron observed. "I reckon I can live with that."

After Dumbledore emerged, they started towards the white marble building housing Gringotts. Hermione attempted to find out where Ron had been, but he either gave evasive answers, or none at all other than a grin. Harry was pleased to see that their improved rapport seemed to be holding up; there was not even a hint of argument.

Outside Gringotts it was decided that Ron, Hermione, and the three Professors would continue on to Florean Fortescue's, where they could watch the bank from the outside tables. Harry and the other two girls entered the bank; he led them to the counter and told the goblin on duty there what he wanted. Twenty minutes later they emerged from the bank and joined the others at the ice cream parlor, Jamie with a noticeable bulge in one of her pockets. After placing an order, Ginny showed Hermione her new Gringotts card, like the ones Harry and Sirius already carried, and a new Barclaycard besides.

"Wow, I think I fell for the wrong guy!" Hermione whispered to Ginny. "Jamie, too?"

Ginny nodded. "And a bag of Galleons. One thing's for sure: neither of us is going to need to buy second-hand robes any more."

"And Jamie's going to need..."

"Everything," Ginny whispered in reply. "Even Mum couldn't repair some of the things in her bag, not that there was much there to start with. And the one decent pair of jeans she had were for a bloke."

After the late arrivals finished their ice cream, the three girls and Madame Flamel walked across the street to Madam Malkin's. Harry offered to visit the apothecary and the stationery shop and pick up the supplies Jamie needed, but she said they would hurry; she wanted to visit all of the shops herself. Harry told her to take her time, and to buy the store out if she wished. He also told Ginny to be sure to get something nice for herself and Hermione as well, as thanks for her helping Jamie today.

It was interesting sitting with Dumbledore; for once, Harry found himself in public, and someone else getting most of the attention. A number of people passing stopped to exchange a few words with the Hogwarts Headmaster; Ron and Harry mostly sat and listened and enjoyed the warm summer afternoon.

It was well over an hour and a half before the girls emerged from Madam Malkin's; next was Flourish and Blotts, where Hermione helped Jamie select all the books she would have normally accumulated over the first four year of Hogwarts - and a copy of Hogwarts, A History. They visited the apothecary, the cauldron shop, the stationery store, and finally ended up at Quality Quidditch Supplies. Here, Ron insisted on going in with Jamie while Harry waited outside. "Leave this one to me, mate, you'll just mess up a good thing."

They emerged a few minutes later, as Harry had expected, with Jamie carrying a Firebolt II case and a bag. Ron looked quite pleased with himself; Harry was almost afraid to ask for the details.

Next, they visited Magical Menagerie, where Jamie ended up choosing a scrawny kitten - with considerable input from Hermione - which the owner referred to as the runt of the litter. Harry suspected from looking at the mother that there was likely some Kneazle in this kit's bloodline as well. Finally they stopped at Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes, where Fred and George made a huge fuss over Jamie. Jamie laughed over and over again at their antics, and at their attempts to tease Harry about, "now they knew exactly how they would get even after the way he had corrupted Ginny." They finally returned to Grimmauld place, laden with their purchases and gifts from the twins, tired but relaxed - except for Harry, who had noticed Fred covertly pass a small package to Ginny - after a good outing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"This seems really strange, you know. To be home, in bed at a normal time, after a normal day doing normal-type things," Ginny said as she snuggled up to Harry.

"Buying out Madam Malkin's is a normal-type thing?"

"If it's not, it should be. Though it took a little while to get Jamie in the spirit of things."

"What do you mean, Gin?"

"Well at first, we kept showing her stuff we thought would look brilliant on her, but she'd put most everything back saying she wanted to look some more. She'd finally picked out two outfits, and then Hermione found her a jumper that was just perfect, so Jamie started to put one of the others back..."

"You mean she..."

"Didn't take you seriously when you said to buy out the store? Don't worry; we got her straightened out pretty quick." Ginny giggled and added, "I still don't think she realizes just how rich you are."

"We are, Gin. And we even have a bit of dosh in Gringotts, too. But tomorrow it's back to study and practice."

"We could have taken a day or two." Ginny pretended to pout. "Some of it right here."

"Maybe we can try Apparating to Hogwarts and get a bit of flying in and let Jamie try her broom."

"Mmmmm... now that would be fun."

"If we are going to have only a few days, we'd better take advantage of them."

Ginny sighed. "Six more days... you don't think..." She watched Harry's expression change. "What is it, Harry?"

He took her hand and they both closed their eyes.

"Poor Professor Dumbledore," Ginny finally whispered. "And... Voldemort was offering... both of you..." Her grip tightened on his hand. "Harry... what are you thinking? Didn't you hear what Professor Flamel said?"

"They all said Sirius was dead, Gin. If I'd listened to Dumbledore, he would have been by now."

"But... Voldemort killed your parents... how could you even think of..."

"I'd never deal with Voldemort. But if I could somehow take his wand..."

"It's still necromancy."

"Dumbledore has used blood magic when it suited him... and certainly hasn't hesitated to use all sorts of deceptions. When I faced Voldemort the first time, he said 'There is no good and evil, there is only power, and those too weak to seek it.' I'm beginning wonder if there's not some truth to that. If I had the means..."

"When we brought Sirius back, we brought back that other thing..."

"I know, I know. But when I think of Jamie... if I had the means, how could I not try?"

"What would you risk to obtain the means?"

"I have to take him on eventually, you know."

"Harry, please think about this carefully. It just doesn't feel right."

"I will, and I'm sure I'll be talking to the Flamels and Dumbledore about it too."

"You know, you do have a family right now. You know how my parents and brothers feel, and there's Sirius and Jamie... and then there's the two of us. If I'm not enough..." She giggled again. "I could take the antidote, you know."

Harry didn't grasp her meaning until she took his hand. "Um... er... maybe there is something I'm less ready for than a sister."

"I'd always thought that it would be after Hogwarts," she said, laughing at his expression. "In the meantime, I hear proficiency in any subject requires practice."

"Jamie's been talking..."

"Maybe." Ginny laughed as she pulled him close.

Some time later, Harry conceded, "A lot of practice."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A floor below...

Hermione closed the book she had been reading. "It's getting late; we'd better call it a night soon."

"I've been waiting for you." Ron let all four legs of the chair he had been leaning back in rest on the floor.

"You still haven't told me where you disappeared to today," she said as she settled on his leg. "I still think you went to check out the Quidditch store."

"No, I had another errand."

She tried for a beguiling look. "Won't you tell me?"

"I... um... stopped by Gringotts."

"To see Bill?"

"No."

Hermione sighed and started to stand up, but Ron said, "Wait."

She settled back, and looked at him expectantly as he breathed deeply and finally began, "I... I almost lost my best friend in the whole world a few days ago... almost before I had a chance to tell you that I love you. Maybe... maybe I'm rushing things now, but dammit, Hermione, if you're going to be upset with me, at least it can be for something I did do instead of what I didn't do." Ron fumbled in his pocket and withdrew a small, velvet-covered box, and opening it, presented it to Hermione. "It's a sapphire. It's your birthstone."

"Ron!!!" Hermione gingerly reached for the box with a shaky hand.

Ron waited a moment. "I picked the sapphire... you can call it a friendship ring or whatever you want." He paused again before continuing, "I know we both have a couple more years of school, but I know this: I want to spend the rest of my life with you. And I wanted you to know that." Again, Ron paused. "Hermione, please say something."

"Oh, Ron, it's beautiful!"

"That was my errand. I was waiting for the right moment to give it to you... but what could be more right than here, among your books?"

"Put in on my finger, Ron."

His own hand unsteady, he managed to slide the ring on her trembling finger. As she moved her face toward his, she whispered, "I love you."

As they kissed, the box dropped from his fingers. When they finally broke apart, he caught just enough breath to whisper, "I love you, too."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hermione came down the stairs a few minutes before eight the next morning, intending to grab a cup of tea before meeting with Jamie. She had promised Jamie that they would begin her lessons this morning, before Dark Arts with Lupin began at ten. As she approached the kitchen, she could hear the sounds of Floo travel. As she walked in, she saw one of the twins step into the fireplace. Otherwise, the kitchen was empty except for Molly and Dobby, though it was obvious that several people had recently had breakfast.

"Good morning, dear," Molly said with a smile. "You're up early."

"Good morning," Hermione replied. "I'm starting Jamie's lessons this morning. I only have a minute; I'm just going to make a cup of tea."

Hermione took a cup and started to prepare her tea when Molly gasped and took her left hand and turned it slightly to get a clear view of the ring she wore. "Hermione, it's... it's lovely."

"Thank you... Ron gave it to me last night."

"I... I had no idea... Ron insisted that I give him his vault key before you lot went to Diagon Alley, but I had no idea... that... that this was his intention." Molly released Hermione's hand and waited till Hermione returned her gaze. "Dear, is this truly what you want? Are you sure?"

"I'm sure, Mrs. Weasley. I really am."

"I'm happy for you, dear," Molly said. "But there's no need to be so formal..."


"Thank you, Mum," Hermione said as Molly pulled her into a long hug.

"In a way, it's funny," Molly said as she released Hermione. "I've hoped Bill and Charlie would settle down for a long time, and now it's my two youngest who are ready before I am."

"How's Penny?"

Molly frowned. "She hasn't lost the baby, but Madam Pomfrey says that could happen at almost any time. It's almost certain she'll not carry it to term, but if she can make it to at least seven months, the child will have a fighting chance. There's little we can do other than wait and hope."

Hermione nodded. "If anyone can bring them through, Madam Pomfrey can. How's Percy holding up?" She poured hot water into her cup and added a lump of sugar.

"Other than the night before last, he's only left her for work, and he calls me several times a day. He wants to talk to all of you; he really appreciates what you lot did."

Hermione smiled. "At the time, he didn't exactly approve of our methods."

"He's had a bit of time to think a lot of things over. Arthur says he has become a driving force behind a movement to make changes to the underage magic restrictions."

"Not making them tougher, I hope."

"No, quite the opposite. His proposal is to allow the Hogwarts Headmaster to waive them as he sees fit, and to eliminate them altogether for those who are fifteen or sixteen."

"Wow, that is a big change! Well, I'm off to meet Jamie."

"Wait, Hermione, she's not been down yet this morning. The last thing that child needs is to miss any meals; let me make a tray for the two of you."

Molly loaded a tray with pastries, muffins, scones, bacon, and other breakfast goodies. She made a pot of tea for Hermione, and filled another teapot with hot chocolate for Jamie. "Hermione, make sure she eats; no child's ribs should show like that."

"I will, Mum."

Hermione carried the tray to the classroom. Jamie was already there with a stack of books near her on the table. One of them was open in front of her; Jamie looked up from her reading as Hermione entered, and said, "Hi."

"Good morning." Hermione set the tray down on the table. "Mrs. Weasley said you hadn't been down for breakfast, and she wanted to make sure you ate."

"Thank you... you didn't have to..."

"You know, all you have to do is come down to the kitchen in the mornings? Mrs. Weasley or Dobby will always have something ready."

Jamie shook her head.

"Well, let's meet there tomorrow morning, say, twenty minutes before we start?"

"Okay."

"What have you read so far?"

Jamie told her, and Hermione began explaining some of the theory behind how wands work, and how the proper motions could influence the spell. As she talked, she failed to notice a sleek tabby slip into the room and take up a position in the back corner. After half an hour of mostly lecture, Hermione was ready for her pupil to attempt the practical. "One of the simplest and most useful spells is Lumos, which causes a light to shine at the end of your wand. Now, think carefully about what we've talked about, and focus on making the light at the end of your wand." Hermione waited for a moment. "Go on."

"Lumos!" Nothing happened.

"Don't fight it; let the wand focus your magic. Try again."

"Lumos!" This time there was a flicker.

"Good, very good. Next time, try to keep the light burning."

"Lumos!" A steady light burned at the tip of Jamie's wand.

"Excellent, Jamie! Now, when you want to extinguish the light, the counterspell is Nox."

"Nox!" The light at the tip of the wand blinked out.

"That's really good. Now, practice it a few times, turning it on and then off."

Jamie did as instructed. Each time, the light at the end of her wand ignited or extinguished as the spell was spoken. Hermione allowed her perhaps a dozen repetitions before moving on. "Okay, that was excellent. Now, let's move on to something else. Remember what I said earlier about the different types of spells? This is a charm; it's a levitation charm like Ron showed you the first night back at the hotel. The spell is Wingardium Leviosa. Try to levitate this quill; use a swish and flick, like this: Wingardium Leviosa!" The quill floated up for several inches before Hermione ended the spell and said, "Now, you try it."

It took Jamie several tries before the feather would as much as budge, and several more attempts before she managed to levitate it; but before long she was able to send the feather soaring into the air, as well as other objects that Hermione selected. "You're doing great. Let's try a transfiguration spell now. You've read the first chapter in the book, right? Okay, now watch as I transfigure this match into a needle. Did you see the motion I used?" Hermione transfigured it back and then said, "Okay, give it a shot."

This was harder for Jamie, but as it neared ten o'clock, she had managed something close to a needle, though the ends were still blunt.

"You've done extremely well. Unfortunately I can't give you the demonstration Professor McGonagall starts her class with - she's a cat Animagus - and she starts her first year class by doing the transformation. It's fascinating to watch."

"Harry says she's very strict."

"She is, but she's also fair, though she won't accept anything other than your best. She's my favorite professor. C'mon, we'd better head to Dark Arts." As the two girls stood, the tabby left the corner and strutted gracefully toward the table. Noticing it for the first time, Hermione grasped Jamie's arm and pointed. As it approached the middle of the room, the cat transformed into Professor McGonagall as the two girls watched.

"Way cool!" Jamie exclaimed. Hermione's face was a bit red.

"It is perhaps fortunate that you have not yet mastered the Animagus transformation, Miss Granger. Otherwise, I might find my position at risk." The corners of her mouth twitched.

"I... um... had no idea you were... How... how long were you here?" Hermione managed.

"Since just after you started. You did quite well, Miss Granger, as did you, Miss Potter. Have you devised a lesson plan?"

"Yes, I wrote one up while I was in the hospital. But it's in pen and on paper."

"That is of little matter. May I see it while the two of you go to your next lesson?"

"Certainly, Professor." Hermione returned to the table and gathered up several pieces of paper and handed them to McGonagall.

"We shall talk further later today. Now, I believe Professor Lupin will be waiting for you."

The two girls left the classroom and headed toward the large basement room that had become their training area.

"I had no idea Professor McGonagall was there," Hermione said. "I hope she doesn't think I was buttering her up."

"You said some pretty nice things."

"Yeah, it's a good thing I didn't tell you all the truth back there," Hermione whispered. "Remember I never told you this: she talks tough, but deep down, she's really an old softie."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"It's about time the two of you got here," Chris said as Harry and Ginny walked into the training room. Arriving on the stroke of ten, they were the last ones there. Ron, Hermione, and Jamie were already doing... well, something... with the Muggle exercise equipment. Harry had to look twice to be sure: it was his cousin, Dudley, who was helping Ron with one of the machines. Something had happened to Dudley in the past three weeks; he was noticeably smaller.

"When did you get here?" Harry asked. "Where's Sirius?"

"Very early this morning. Sirius is sleeping off several thousand miles' worth of single malt. I slept on the plane. We're going to make a little change to the schedule. I get you for forty-five minutes starting at ten; then you'll go with your Dark Arts training until half past twelve. Now, let's get you started. We'll catch up on the rest of it later."

Chris sent each of them to a different machine; she got Ginny started, while Dudley demonstrated to Harry what he needed to do. "Dudley, you're looking good."

"Thanks, Harry, but call me Dee. The first week was tough, but I... No! Not like that, like this, or you'll hurt yourself. I reckon Sirius was actually spot on."

"What..."

"Enough chatter there. Get to work, Potter! Socialize on your own time."

And work they did. After fifteen minutes Harry was tired; after thirty, muscles were aching in places he was previously unaware he had muscles, and from the looks of it, no one else was doing much better. Chris finally called a halt as Lupin and the Flamels entered; Dudley watched for a few moments and then began his own routine.

Lupin seemed to be amused as they limped toward the center of the room. "I know Harry has practiced once or twice, but otherwise you lot have lolled about for the past two weeks ordering from room service. And as winded as you are now, this may be a waste of time. Perhaps we should work from the books today instead."

For some reason Lupin's comments grated on Harry. "I'm ready," he said quietly.

"Let's see what you can mange today, then," Lupin said, making Harry think back to their last lesson. He walked to one end of the dueling mat as Harry walked to the other. They bowed, and Lupin fired off a spell, "Claudeo!"

Harry raised a shield with his empty left hand, "Contego!" Lupin wasn't playing around. Then, with his wand, "Depulso!" Lupin was knocked down and back over a dozen feet - and a moment later, Harry was holding his wand.

Lupin stood shaking his head and said, "You were right, Perenelle. That was impressive; that shield isn't even taught at the NEWT level." Lupin grinned. "Harry, I'm not going to be picking any more fights with you. But I did want to see for myself..."

"You should take care not to surprise him," Nicholas said, smiling. "He almost cast a flame strike on Brian and myself when we joined you in the States. But let us begin. Today, Perenelle will work with Harry and Ginny; Remus and Chris, with Ron and Hermione, and I will begin Jamie's instruction."

By twelve-thirty Harry and the others were more than ready to for a break. The first hour or so had not been so bad, when Perenelle had him practice two new spells, but the last half-hour, when they had dueled, left him satisfied but exhausted. He'd not been hit - though his footwork still played a significant part in that. Ginny had also done well, successfully casting the Contego shield. Nicholas had praised Jamie's efforts, and Ron and Hermione seemed satisfied, though perhaps that was more about the session finally coming to an end. Lupin and Chris had run them ragged.

"Wait," Lupin said. "Both Ron and Ginny successfully cast a Patronus two nights ago. I'd like to get a closer look before we go."

Ron and Hermione were already halfway to the door, but Ron turned back and motioned with his wand. "Expecto Patronum!" A large silver bear formed, and after ambling around the room walked back toward Ron and nodded once before vanishing.

"Excellent, Ron," Lupin said. "Hermione was right, it was a bear. And Ginny? I didn't get a very clear look at yours."

"Expecto Patronum!" This time a large cat formed, and after prowling once about the room, it approached Ginny, appeared to roar, and vanished.

"That, if I'm not mistaken, that was either a black leopard or a black panther," Lupin said.

"A panther," Ginny said, blushing. "Bagheera. From the Jungle Books."

"Muggle story books?" Hermione asked.

"Kipling was a wizard," Ginny replied. "I'm surprised you didn't know that. He wrote several books that were never published in the Muggle world."

Lunch passed without incident. Chris would not tell Harry much about their travels, saying he could question Sirius later, other than that they had taken a Muggle airline from Portland, with a stop in New York. Jamie asked Harry about Dudley, but he put her off, promising that he would tell her the entire story later.

Not long before their session with Professor McGonagall was to begin, Snape came through the fireplace, carrying a leather case in each hand. They learned that Jamie would continue her Potions instruction while the other four students worked with McGonagall.

In McGonagall's lesson, they again confronted the balls of clay with little visible progress. Even Hermione was unable to reproduce the results she had achieved in their last session. McGonagall dismissed all but Hermione ten minutes early; after they exited, she said, "Both of the lesson plans you have devised, Hermione, are ambitious. Particularly the first one."

"I wanted to have options, depending on how fast Jamie is able to learn the materials and master the spells," Hermione replied. "If we can keep to the first outline, we can cover the essential material for the first two years in Charms, Transfiguration, Astronomy, and Dark Arts. Quite a bit of the material in second year is going into more depth on the basics from first year. I've not attempted to plan anything for Potions, and we don't have the resources to attempt much with Herbology. History doesn't really build on prior years like the other courses do, and there's not really time to attempt anything relating to electives. I had thought that if she could at least take some of the core courses for third year, we could work next summer on the fourth-year material, and perhaps she could be all caught up by her OWL year. If that pace is too fast, then with the second plan she could at least be ready for some second year courses."

"As I said, both are ambitious plans, but perhaps achievable. I do not believe it would be improper to decide her placement just prior to school via examination. I will discuss your plan with Professor Snape. If Miss Potter were able to begin all of her core subjects plus Defense and Astronomy at the third-year level, this would have a significant advantage in placing her with others much closer to her own age. I will expect you to keep me apprised of her progress."

"I will, Professor."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Why do I feel you have your own agenda for today's lesson, lapin?" Perenelle asked as Harry entered the kitchen. She was seated at the table with an open book nearby.

"Um... I'd hoped we might try Apparating a longer distance, maybe to Hogwarts," Harry said, his planned, carefully worded opening suddenly unnecessary.

"And once there?" Perenelle asked, smiling.

"Er, well, we hoped we might get a chance for Jamie to try out her broom, and maybe get a bit of flying in ourselves."

Perenelle nodded thoughtfully. "All of you but Hermione have already proven yourselves from such a distance, but she deserves a chance, does she not? And flying is a skill Jamie would normally have mastered years ago. Very well, we shall venture to Hogwarts."

"Hi, Harry," Sirius said. He had entered the room as Perenelle was replying to Harry. He walked across the room and began preparing a cup of Earl Grey.

"Hi, Sirius. Welcome home."

"Thanks. It's good to be here... well, maybe it will be when the trip wears off."

"Did you find... whatever it was you were looking for?" Harry asked.

"No." Sirius shook his head. "It was a totally wasted trip."

"I'm sorry."

"I'm not giving up yet."

"Hi, Sirius," Hermione said as she entered, followed by McGonagall.

"Hello, Hermione, Professor," Sirius said as he walked towards the table.

"Sirius." McGonagall nodded once.

Sirius took a seat, and as Hermione started to take the chair next to him, Sirius said, "What's that on your finger?" Hermione rotated her hand so that the ring was clearly visible. "I was going to say you must have gotten a piece of the rock, but it looks like you got the whole thing."

"It is a beautiful ring," McGonagall said.

"Indeed," Perenelle agreed.

Ron and Ginny entered, each with two Firebolt cases, and Ron also carried his old broom. They both looked inquiringly at Harry; Harry nodded and gave a thumbs up. Jamie and then Snape followed them in. Snape nodded to those present and then made his way to the fireplace, where he departed via the Floo. Ginny gave Harry his broom; Ron gave one of the Firebolts to Jamie and his old broom to an obviously reluctant Hermione.

"We all seem to be here," Perenelle said. "Shall we meet just outside the Hogwarts gate, at the Apparition point? Jamie, if you will place a finger on this key ring, it will transport us there as well."

A few moments later they were all standing together outside the gates. Jamie stared at the castle. "Mondo cool! It's... it's incredible. This is really a school?"

"And it's home, too," Harry said with a smile.

There was a crack behind them as McGonagall appeared. "Perenelle, since they are all here, and your destination is obvious, would you bring them by the castle before you return to Headquarters?"

"Certainly, Minerva. Though I'm afraid I have my doubts that we shall end on time today."

"Then I shall send word to Molly that you will dine with us tonight in the Great Hall," McGonagall said.

They walked together most of the way to the castle before McGonagall made her way towards the great doors while the others continued around toward the Quidditch pitch. This was truly another homecoming for Harry; he had missed flying and Quidditch almost as much as he would have missed breathing. Jamie seemed a little nervous; he hoped that she would enjoy the freedom of moving through the sky as much as he did.

When they reached the pitch, Ron demonstrated how to raise and mount the broom. "And, after you mount, hold on, then kick off really hard. Then very slowly pull back the handle and let it rise a few feet."

Jamie held her hand over her broom and commanded, "Up!" The Firebolt snapped into her hand.

"Now that's what I call a good omen," Ron said, grinning.

"Just like Harry," Hermione said, also grinning.

"Mount it and kick off," Ron said.

Jamie swung a leg over the broom and kicked off, rising a few feet into the air. "This is cool; I like this."

"Jamie," Harry said, "Remember, this is a racing broom. All you need is the lightest touch to guide it."

She nodded and eased the broom forward. She wobbled a bit at first, but within a minute was flying steadily. Harry and Ginny joined her in the air, and after a little persuasion, Ron managed to get Hermione to join them as well. They started by leisurely circling the pitch, but before long the four Firebolts were moving at close to their full speed; Hermione maintained a slower pace.

Harry noticed that a group of people had joined Perenelle in watching them fly; as he approached, faces came into focus, and they slowed and landed, Jamie somewhat awkwardly.

"What the bloody hell did you think you were doing..." Fred began.

"...Sneaking off here without telling us?" George finished. Behind them were Bill, Charlie, Sirius, Chris, Oliver Wood, Angelina Johnson, Alicia Spinnet, and Katie Bell, all grinning. Fred and George carried a small trunk between them; all of them carried brooms.

"Yeah, five flyers are a lot for one Professor to keep track of," Sirius said. "I thought we'd offer a hand."

"How about your shop?" Harry asked.

"Lee's minding the store," George said. "The rest of us, nodding at Fred, Angelina, and Alicia, took the afternoon off, and Katie and Oliver were both in town."

"And I was already here," Charlie said, "and I Floo'd Bill."

"And I tipped them all off," Sirius added. "And Chris came along for the ride. So, are we going to talk or play?"

They divided up into two teams. One had Harry as Seeker, Ron as Keeper, Sirius and Chris as beaters, and Ginny, Jamie, and Katie as Chasers. The other team had Charlie as Seeker, Wood as Keeper, Fred and George as Beaters, and Alicia, Angelina, and Bill as Chasers. Ginny and Katie drew Jamie aside and pointed out the different balls; apparently Ron had done a fair job of describing the basics of the game. Hermione refused a chance to play, but volunteered to toss the Quaffle up to start the game.

As they started, Alicia and Angelina were an effective force, quickly racking up fifty points. Ginny, Katie and Jamie finally fell into a rhythm and managed to score a goal. After almost two hours of play, Charlie's team led, 170 to 90, and the Snitch had yet to put in an appearance. Charlie and Harry had paced each other; then, near one of the stands, both spotted a flash of gold. Harry's Firebolt II easily outpaced the older broom Charlie was using; a moment later, the Snitch rested in Harry's hand.

As they all landed near the center of the field, Charlie said with a laugh, "I think I want a rematch on a broom like yours, Harry. This old Comet is no match for that Firebolt." Then, turning toward Sirius, he said, "And now we're square, right?"

Sirius looked shocked. "Hardly. The will clearly said, 'Gryffindor players and Alumni.' Chris here never attended Hogwarts. You're not getting off the hook that easily, Weasley. This was too much fun not to do again. Besides, I intend to watch the next one."

Katie wrapped an arm around Jamie's shoulder as they walked across the field. "You did really well, Jamie. You scored a goal on a professional Keeper, you know. You're a natural flyer, just like Harry."

"I told you," Ron said. "It's in her blood. I give you Potter, Weasley, Bell, Weasley, Potter... uh, I sure hope Kirke and Sloper practice this summer."

"I think you had an extra Weasley in there, and forgot a Potter," Ginny said, laughing. "Or have you forgotten about the Wizengamot?"

"And she's not in Gryffindor yet, Ron," Hermione reminded him. "We won't know that until the opening feast."

"Oh, have a little faith. We all ended up in the same house, even my sock-stealing sister," Ron replied.

Perenelle and McGonagall were waiting for them at the edge of the pitch. McGonagall said, "That was quite enjoyable to watch. I only regret I was not here for the first portion of your match. Now, you are all expected for dinner in the great hall. I have unlocked the changing rooms should you wish to freshen up; the meal will be served in half an hour."

"Just like old times," Fred said.

"As long as Dolores isn't invited." George added.

"Have no concerns on that score," McGonagall said. "That... witch... shall never cross the threshold of the castle again while I draw breath."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After taking advantage of the showers, they made their way towards the Great Hall. McGonagall was waiting outside the doors for them. "Thank all of you for coming. Tonight we find ourselves in a somewhat unusual situation. Jamie Potter has begun her studies as a student of Hogwarts, under the direction of the faculty, but has not yet been sorted. Professor Dumbledore agreed that this should be addressed as quickly as was feasible, and I have... managed... to persuade the Sorting Hat to do so tonight; however, it refused to do so unless we proceeded with a Sorting Ceremony in the Great Hall. Now, if you all would go in and be seated, we will begin in a moment.

Harry and the others entered the Great Hall; several tables had been set up in a 'U' shape; the Sorting Hat sat on a stool in the middle. Dumbledore sat at the center of the table; the Flamels, Professor Snape, Remus Lupin, Madam Pomfrey, and Arthur and Molly Weasley were already seated. Harry and the others found places, and after they settled in, Dumbledore rose and said, "Welcome, students, alumni, and friends. Tonight, we are gathered for a welcoming feast - not of welcoming another year, but welcoming a new student to our mids - one who has taken a most unusual road in reaching here. Tonight, we welcome Jamie Potter to Hogwarts. Professor McGonagall has prevailed upon the Sorting Hat to assist with this unusual event. Therefore, without further ado, let the sorting begin!"

McGonagall led Jamie into the hall. She barely managed to follow the Professor as she looked about the room, the ceiling, and the floating candles. McGonagall stopped her just in front of the stool, and as the professor walked behind it, the Sorting Hat began to sing:

"Has it been so long a time?
Nigh a thousand years...
Living, loving, hoping, yearning;
But now there's pain and tears.

"I have sent the lion-hearted
To their tower of red and gold.
It is of their courage,
That mighty tales are told!

"I have grouped the scholars,
Learning they do not fear,
In their lofty aerie,
Knowledge is their sphere!

"I have found hard workers,
The faithful and the true -
Against all odds and opposition,
They will carry through!

"And I have placed the cunning
In a dungeon damp and deep.
Their ambition it does not darken
It is power that they seek!

"Into four houses I sort them,
After a bit of song.
Those houses must not be divided,
Only together they are strong!

"But I have been awakened
Before the year has yet begun.
A class stands not before me,
I must sort but one.

"Slender as an elfin maid,
Her eyes have seen scant laughter.
Brave and daring! Be not afraid:
Of that which was. Or what shall come hereafter.

"Such pain and hurt and agony
She should never have had to bear.
Trust and hope and love and truth,
Twisted into despair!

"After dusk comes evening,
And the blackness of the night.
The hurt and pain and sorrow;
The fear and pain and fright!

"Yet after night comes dawning,
And the rising of the sun!
Morning brings a new day,
Its promise just begun!

"Much is cloaked within our world,
Much lies deeply, deeply hidden.
Power bound behind a veil:
It cannot arise unbidden!

"Doth deep within her beating heart
The secret fire smolder?
Can what was once arise again,
In a world that's grown far colder?

"Is there heart to fan these coals -
Into a mighty flame?
To once more, to yet again,
To play this olden game?

"Now, it is to your sorting
That I must finally see.
This riddle shall I offer:
'May what should be, shall be!'"


After a moment of silence, there were both applause and worried looks from around the table. McGonagall then said, "Jamie Potter, please come forward and sit on the stool. I will place the hat upon your head, and it will sort you into your house."

Jamie stepped forward and settled on the stool; McGonagall placed the hat on her head.

Harry found himself growing worried as the silence stretched into the third minute. Apparently he wasn't the only one; he could see other looks being exchanged across the table. And that song... there were certainly things he would be discussing with Madame Flamel... as well as seeking a straight answer to who or what Praetor actually was. Finally, his train of thought was interrupted as the hat shouted "Gryffindor!"

As the roar of cheers died down, and Jamie worked her way through the congratulations towards the chair between Harry and Snape, Dumbledore stood and waved his hand. "Let the feast begin!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Did the Sorting Hat say anything to you?" Harry asked. They had returned to Grimmauld Place; the five students were together in the fourth floor suite.

Jamie nodded. "It said it had not expected to see another Potter in this generation, but since my brother was bound to a Weasley, it was bracing itself for a regular procession of them in a few years."

"Will they have red hair or black?" Hermione asked, laughing at Harry's expression.

"Come on, Harry, you knew what you were getting into," Ron grinned. "Weasleys have large families."

"Did you, Hermione?" Ginny asked sweetly. "It's not too late to change your mind, you know."

"Are you kidding?" Hermione asked. "And give this back?" She held up her left hand. "That is so not going to happen."

Harry tried to steer the conversation back to serious matters. "Jamie, did it say anything else?"

She nodded. "Yeah, then it said that I had no shortage of courage, and like my mother and brother, a fine mind; and that I have the willingness and discipline to see things through, and great ambition as well. And all I thought was that I wanted to be in Gryffindor. The hat said that I would do well there, but that Slytherin would promote unity, but there would be a risk to me as well. Then it went on about the needs of the many and the needs of the one."

"Then it shouted out Gryffindor?" Ginny asked.

"No, I told it I didn't care about any of that; that I'd been alone for so long, and don't separate me from... from my brother and his friends. Then it said that the die had already been cast, and that's when it shouted out Gryffindor."

Harry nodded thoughtfully; the others were quiet several moments until Hermione asked, "Did you listen to the song, Harry?"

"Yes. I wasn't really sure what to think..."

"I wrote it down as well as I could right after dinner," Hermione said. "It was made up of fifteen couplets. The first six were typical of what we've all heard before; it was the seventh, where the hat said it been awakened early to sort just one, where it sounded like it was talking just about Jamie."

"It certainly said something about unity in there, too," Harry said. "But go on."

"The next one ended with, 'Be not afraid: Of that which was. Or what shall come hereafter.' That's vague enough... but still, it struck me as meaning something specific."

Ron, Ginny and Harry all nodded as Jamie looked back and forth between them. Hermione continued, "But where things really started to get strange was in the last four couplets. The imagery there - hidden power bound behind a veil, power that cannot rise unbidden, a secret fire, a world that's grown colder... and the last line, 'May what should be, shall be.' Where have we heard that before?"

"Madame Flamel," Harry said.

"Both of them," Ron amended.

"They both know more than they've told us so far," Harry said. "Madame Flamel recognized the Phoenix that saved Jamie. Its name is Praetor." Harry told them the other few bits he had learned, and that Perenelle had almost as much as admitted that the three wand cores had come from this phoenix. "She promised to tell me more in Diagon Alley, but I haven't had a chance to really talk to her yet."

"Praetor..." Hermione said, shaking our head. "Somewhere I've seen that name in a book... You should have said something earlier, Harry."

"You were kinda out of it a couple days there, you know," Harry said. "But there are some other things I should tell all of you as well." He told them first about the conversation with Nicholas Flamel, then, reluctantly about how he had found Dumbledore. "I feel like I'm violating a confidence, but I think all this fits together somehow."

"Remember what Snape said on the plane?" Ginny asked. Harry nodded and she recounted the conversation for Ron, Hermione, and Jamie.

"But what does it all mean?" Harry asked.

"You know, it's strange," Hermione said. "But I don't recall ever reading much at all about Cassandra Trelawney - or anything specific about how Dumbledore defeated Grindelwald."

"Dumbledore said that wasn't an accident," Harry said.

"You know, I think I remember the book where I saw that name," Hermione said. "It was the same one that talked about the champion of light, the champion de la lumière. It was where I read about what you are now - the champion presumptive."

"Could you find it?" Harry asked, excited.

"I think so," Hermione replied. "I came across it in fourth year when I was searching for something else. I put it back, intending to read it later..."

"Is there a chance the library here...?" Harry began.

"There's a chance," Hermione replied. "But I don't remember the name, so it could take a long time to find. It'd be a lot faster at Hogwarts."

"We at least have the means of getting there now," Ron said.

"But... but what does all this mean?" Jamie asked. "I... I don't understand."

Harry nodded. This couldn't be anything other than frightening to Jamie, but he refused even to consider the alternative. "I know, sis, but this concerns you, and you should know. But remember this, no matter what: anyone coming after you still has to get through me first."

"That goes for me, too," Ron said; then, seeing Hermione and Ginny nodding, he continued. "No, that goes for all of us. Jamie, Harry's my brother; not by blood, not just in law, but by deliberate choice. That means you're family, too." Ron gave her a wide grin. "Besides, with that hair, everyone's going to assume you're kin anyway."


Author notes: See that big Review! link over this text? After reading, you're supposed to click it. Not only does it help me get the necessary kitchen passes to get the next chapter to you that much faster, you know you really are supposed to anyway. From the hit counts, I know about 2 or 3 percent of you are actually reviewing. It takes a mnute, but even a one liner "It's great" or "It stinks" is better than silence. What worked for you, or what didn't is even more valuable. Questions are also welcome and encouraged. I do reply in the forum. Now, click that link!