Chapter 4
The morning of the start of Yule break Harry awoke feeling depressed, while he was going to his ancestral home for the first time today it meant he was having to spend almost 2 weeks away from Hermione. He lay there for what felt like hours stroking her hair as she slept with her head on his chest, he tried to commit her subtle snore to memory. It seemed silly to him they were only going to be apart for at most 10 days but he knew that it would feel like a lifetime and he didn't want to be away from her at all. She slowly stirred in his arms as he began to wriggle a little in his slight uncomfortableness, she eventually sat up and kissed him softly.
"Good morning Handsome." She smiled at him. "How long have you been up?"
"Good morning Beautiful, I'm not sure it's been a while, a few hours I think."
"Dreading being apart?"
"Yeah, it seems silly though we've only been a couple for a month and a half."
"It's not silly, so much has changed for us since then I'm not looking forward to it either." She replied frowning. "Mum tried to add you to the holiday but it was too late the fights were too expensive."
"That's ok it will be nice to be able to spend a Christmas around people who actually care for me, we can make other plans for next year." He smiled at her. "Anyway do you want your present early?"
"Yes!" She squealed in excitement.
Harry got up and retrieved a small present wrapped in tartan paper and tied with a black ribbon from his trunk at the end of their bed.
"How long has it been there?" She demanded.
"A few weeks, Aunt Minnie went and got it for me from Diagon Alley."
"And you had to hide it right under my nose?"
"Well yeah, you've been in there 3 times since I hid it I was half expecting you to find it."
She shook her head, disappointed at her own inobservance of his things. She tore off the paper, revealing a golden jewellery box embossed with the letters HJP on its lid.
"Why your initials?" She questioned.
"They're not just mine, they'll be yours to in a few years." He replied smiling. "Or did you forget that?"
"Oh for Merlin's sake, how did I not realise we'd have the same initials." She sighed. "Although HJPMD would actually have been correct, officially."
"Just open it already." Harry said impatiently.
Hermione opened the box and found a heart shaped locket covered in rubies attached to a delicate golden chain, she opened the locket and an inscription glowed at her from the back panel.
I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU. H.J.P.
The other panel held a tiny moving image of the two of them, they were laughing. It was one of the pictures they had sent to Sirius, the memory of their picnic with Aunt Minnie and Uncle Remus made her laugh through the tears that were streaming down her face.
"It's beautiful, but it must have cost you a small fortune." She wailed as she hugged him.
"Not really." He said as he broke from the embrace and fastened the clasp behind her neck. "Only a few hundred Galleons, but you are worth every Knut."
"But we should be saving that money."
"Not really, it came out of the trust vault and Aunt Minnie showed me the total of all my family vaults the other day and I could buy you one of these every minute of every day for the rest of your life, even if we live beyond 300 and still never need to work a single day in my life."
"Really?"
"Yeah the sales of Merlin's books alone bring in millions every year, and all those companies I own are actually really popular in the Wizarding community world wide." He explained. "The only one that isn't generating money is the Holyhead Harpy's, but they're a Quidditch team so I wasn't expecting them to."
"That's a weird name for a team isn't it?"
"Not really they're an all female team." He stated. "Turns out Great Aunt Dorea was a massive fan and when the club was struggling she bought just enough to have a controlling stake but still leave the day to day running of the team to it's original owners. I just approved an additional 10 million for new equipment at Aunt Minnie's suggestion, seams they are doing well but on very old brooms and worn out robes."
"That'll be a big boost then."
"Yeah hopefully they can get close to the title this year and maybe win it next year."
"Ron is going to flip out when he finds out you own part of a team."
"No actually he didn't, Aunt Minnie asked me while you were in the loo during dinner a week or so ago, and he spent the rest of the time you were gone comparing them to his precious Chudley Cannons, which are doing a little better in the league apparently. Now where have you hidden my present?"
"Think clothing."
"Your wardrobe?"
"No, think primarily white and pink."
"In your underwear draw?"
"Yes it's the only place I didn't think you'd look unless I told you to."
"Well to be fair I only ever practice around you so you are right there." He said standing and opening the draw and rifling through its contents.
He found a small rectangular present right at the bottom, it was wrapped in plain brown paper and tied with simple string. He untied the string and carefully removed the paper, inside was a silver framed picture of Hermione in her uniform smiling broadly.
"I know it's only a muggle picture but mum sent it to me so I had something to give to you." She frowned. "It turns out mum and dad chose a skiing village with a magical community big enough for them to have a street like Diagon Alley for their shops, so I was going to get your present there."
"That's ok I love it." He beamed at her. "Taken the day you got your school robes?"
"Yes, Daddy insisted on getting a photo."
Harry checked his watch and found that it was only 6 o'clock and breakfast didn't start for another hour.
"Why don't we pack our things now so we are ready after breakfast." He suggested.
"Sounds good the train leaves at 9 I think."
They descended to the great hall an hour and a half later to find it full of students chatting noisily abut their Yule plans. They found their friends at the far end of the table nearest the staff table, Seamus and Dean were busy teasing Ron about him staying, while Neville, Lavender and Parvati were discussing their Yule plans.
"You two are up late today." Lavender said as they sat down opposite her and next to Neville.
"Not really we started packing at 6 and were up a while before then anyway." Hermione stated as their food arrived, Tilly didn't even ask any more their order never changed.
"Do you guys even sleep?" Dean asked winking.
"Yes Dean we do, and get your head out of the gutter, Harry's the perfect gentleman." Hermione smiled at him.
"So you two haven't...?" Lavender asked with bated breath.
"Not that it's any of your business, but no, neither of us is ready for that yet." Harry replied.
"It was a struggle to get him to share the room." Hermione giggled. "So what's everyone's plans for the holidays?"
"I'm going back to Ireland." Seamus replied.
"And I'm joining him to see in the new year after Christmas." Dean continued. "Mum said it would be good for me to see what a real magical house is like."
"Padma and I are going to see family in India, daddy says he's going to be busy with the Wizenagmot." Parvati stated. "Something to do with the Malfoys throwing their weight around."
"Sorry it's partly my fault." Harry apologised. "They owe me more money than they actually have so they are trying to get it nullified by their allied Lords."
"It's ok." She smiled. "Daddy is lobbying on your behalf to get you a similar result to the Dumbledore trial, but as they aren't an Ancient house you can just dissolve the house from nobility."
"Plus it would take that bloody chip off of Draco's shoulder." Ron chipped in. "But I'm still a little miffed at you Harry, Mum and Dad are helping Charlie relocate back to England so they've asked us all to stay here."
"Ronald you were present for the negotiations." Hermione chastised him. "You know both your father and Charlie volunteered his services in lieu of monies owed."
"I know it's still a little strange it'll be the first Yule without them." Ron answered back. "Have fun meeting Ginny she's a little obsessed with you Harry."
"Well she'll just have to get over it." Percy said from his seat next to Ron. "We're spending rather a lot of time with Harry in the next year or so."
"Well maybe we you guys can see them on Christmas Day they wont be at the manor." Harry stated. "Well Charlie might but only if he needs to see to the griffins."
"You have griffins?" Lavender squealed.
"We think so, his Great Uncle Charlus liked to keep them." Hermione answered to let Harry keep eating. "So the herd should still be there, the house elves used to take care of them."
"But I'd prefer a humans touch." Harry inserted between mouthfuls. "Well that and I'd like to the little guys a bit of an easy life, they have been on their own for the last 10 years."
"Yeah but they're just elves." Ron said. "They like to serve and keep busy."
"Ronald, this is why I keep saying you need lessons in empathy." Hermione scowled at him. "While they like to serve they have been masterless for a decade and Harry doesn't want to force too much on them as soon as he arrives."
"That and I don't even know how many live at the manor or any of the family properties." Harry added. "But I plan on exploring as much of the grounds as I can, dad says there are some follies and actual ruins hidden in the forests."
"I couldn't persuade you to wait for me to explore those, could I?" Hermione asked.
"For you I will but only until Easter."
"Thank you handsome."
"Ahem." Aunt Minnie coughed as she approached the group. "Harry dear, are you and Hermione packed?"
"Yes, are you joining us on the train?"
"You won't be on the train, we have the portkey remember?"
"Sorry I forgot about that."
"Well it would be a little silly to go all the way to London just to return to Scotland now wouldn't it?" Aunt Minnie asked rhetorically.
"But why did you ask about me?" Hermione queried.
"Because you are joining us at the manor, your parents are upstairs."
"But... " Hermione began.
"I'm told it's only for tonight."
They followed her up to her office and found Viv and Richard waiting for them on one of the sofas, after a quick round of hugs Aunt Minnie ushered them to stand around the coffee table where she had placed a small key on a long chain.
"Everyone take ahold of the chain, and when I tell you to Harry you grab the key." She explained. "When he does that it will feel like someone has grabbed you round the navel and is pulling on you we'll spin around a lot and when it stops we should be at the manor."
Hermione took ahold of the large ring at the opposite end of the chain to the key, her parents stood on either side of her and held the chain in one hand and the ring in the other. Aunt Minnie stood near Harry and held the chain loosely in one hand and placed the other on his shoulder.
"Right hold the key and state who you are and where you are intending to go." She instructed.
"I Lord Harry James Potter-Merlin-Dumbledore wish to return to Potter Manor with all who hold this chain." He stated.
He braced for the pull on his navel but it never came, instead it was like he was being squeezed from all side, and they were suddenly standing at the foot of a grand stone staircase that lead up to a large oak front door that was set into the black marble wall that extended upwards, standing at four storeys tall. Harry looked around, there was a manicured lawn behind him, a shingle path at least 20 feet wide led away from the house into the woods that stretched out as far as he could see on either side of the path, beyond this he could make out the distinct shapes of Quidditch hoops.
"By Merlin." Aunt Minnie stated loudly. "An apiration key, they are impossible to block and very rare."
"Why would it be one of those?" Harry asked.
"Because it can be carried anywhere by its owner and bring them safely home if needed without anyone being able to follow." Hermione answered. "I read about ways to travel magically at the start of term, I suggest you keep that key around your neck at all times Harry."
"As do i you never know when you might need it." Aunt Minnie smiled
"Just how big is this place?" Viv asked looking up at the building.
"It's set in around 100 acres land, a mix of open fields and woodland." Aunt Minnie explained. "There are enough bedrooms inside to house most of Gryffindor house and their families."
"Yeah that's not happening." Harry stated bluntly. "But why so many rooms?"
"When it was built it was customary for the entire family to live here with their Head of House." She replied. "Now shall we head inside?"
"I'll get the door shall I?" Richard asked as he was the closest to it. "It's locked."
"Harry you will need to open it." Aunt Minnie stated.
"Can I try?" Hermione asked placing her hand on the door. "I, Hermione Jean Granger soulmate and betrothed to Lord Harry James Potter-Merlin-Dumbledore request access to Potter Manor."
The door cracked open an inch, Hermione pushed gently on one half and it opened easily. Harry took her hand and together the stepped over the threshold into a brightly lit entrance hall, golden tapestries with scarlet griffins were shining from their hangings on the pillars either side of a small set of steps that lead to a hallway that ran deep into the manor, the floor was a gleaming grey veined white marble. As they stepped further into the room 7 small house elves appeared on the steps, 6 on the top step and 1 on the bottom, 3 of the back row were wearing tailed suits and all the rest were wearing dresses in various colours.
"Welcome home, Lord and Lady Potter." The elf on the bottom step greeted. "I am Velma, your head elf here. If you are wondering about the clothes our previous Master, Lord Charlus, hated seeing us in the pillow cases and loin clothes his father made us wear, so he asked us what we would prefer to wear and instructed us to make them."
"Hello Velma, I wasn't wondering I assumed you had been allowed by my great uncle." Harry replied. "But Hermione isn't Lady Potter just yet, why did you address her as such?"
"She is your soulmate Master, she is apart of you and you apart of her, she is Lady Potter to us."
"Thank you Velma but please just use our first names." Hermione said smiling. "These are my parents, Viv and Richard please see to their needs as well."
"How often will they be staying here?"
"Well tonight for certain but after that we are not sure." Richard answered.
"Tell you what which of you looks after the griffins?" Harry asked.
"That is I Lord Harry, Sir." A suited elf said stepping forward. "I am Fredrick, there are currently 9 males, 13 females, 7 younglings."
"We have a new beast master who will be joining us later, I'm going to assign you to look after Viv and Richard when ever they are here." Harry stated. "You can inform Charlie about the herd when he arrives."
"Of course My Lord, but why the new beast master?" Fredrick asked. "Are you not happy with my work with them?"
"I know nothing of your work with them, but the Weasley family owes the house of Potter some money and has offered services in lieu of payment." Harry stated. "This is simply one of those services."
"Sir, Madam, please follow me to our guest quarters, you can use them for tonight and we arrange a more permanent suite when you are next here." Fredrick stated as he lead the Grangers from the room.
"It is good to see you again Velma." Aunt Minnie stated. "Is the suite Dorea set aside for me still decorated as I requested?"
"Of course Minerva, will you be staying often?"
"I am Harry's guardian until he is of age. We only accepted his Lordships to ensure the punishment of a man who had wronged the house of Potter."
"Very well, we will keep it to your liking." Velma replied. "Do you still require the elevated cat bed you originally asked for."
"Indeed, I still sleep in cat form when the mood strikes me. I'll see you two at lunch I'm going to unpack I'll call Tilly to have your things brought over." Aunt Minnie stated as she strode away taking a side door halfway down the corridor.
"Could you show us to the Lords chambers?" Harry asked Velma.
"Certainly, will you be wanting them redecorated today?"
"That depends entirely on the decor." Hermione replied.
Velma lead them deep into the manor, they passed beyond the corridor into a large formal sitting room, that Velma advised was only used to entertain guests, after another short corridor Hermione squealed in joy as the entered into a two storey library filled with bookshelves and very little open space.
"We have nearly every book written in the magical world." Velma stated as she kept walking. "And rather a lot from the muggle, your Grandfather was quite fond of their fantasy writings."
"Impressive." Harry replied tightening his grip on Hermione's hand. "I promise not to go digging in here until you're with me."
"Thank you Handsome, but you don't have to wait for me." She said as they climbed to the second floor.
"I know but you love libraries, and I own this one so it's not going to disappear." He smiled at her. "It will still be there in a few months when we return together."
They walked in silence as they followed Velma down the longest corridor yet, she turned abruptly to face them at a set of double doors it's end.
"Welcome to the Lord's suite." Velma stated as the doors opened behind her. "I shall wait here while you look around."
They entered the room together, surprised to see a large golden staircase in front of them, the floor was a highly polished oak and the walls were a pastel green. There were 2 doors on each side wall and one on each side of the stairs, they started with the door to closest to them on their left side and walked into a small study, a green leather armchair stood behind a ornate mahogany desk, it faced the fire that was along the right hand wall. Above the fire was a portrait of an older man sat at the desk, he was currently sleeping and his soft snores filled the room, the golden plaque beneath him read 'Lord Charlus Henry Potter, 1895 - 1981'. Harry looked at the decor frowning, it was too dark, with it's crimson walls and black carpet.
"Velma can we change the colours of the study?" He said. "A cream on the walls?"
He smiled as the red slowly faded into pastel and turned to the light yellow he had asked for.
"Much better." Hermione said beside him. "We'll come back and talk to him when he's awake."
They left the room and entered the next one to find a bright room full of muggle gym equipment, it stretched out to their right at least 30 feet and had windows along its entire length that over looked the lawns below them and the trees beyond.
"Looks like uncle Charlus liked to keep fit even in his old age." Harry stated.
POP
"Actually no this room was empty until you arrived, it conforms to a need that each Lord has but doesn't consciously acknowledge." Velma stated. "In your case I'd say training for Quidditch, for your great uncle it was many things over his life, at one time I believe it was a birthing room for the griffins. He got quite good at changing it to suit his needs, but I'm not sure how."
"Wow, thank you Velma." Hermione replied.
POP
They left the room smiling and entered the door beside the stairs, into a large wardrobe full of wizards robes of various colours, they stepped further in and came across an extensive set of muggle suits, beyond this were many empty racks, and a corridor the lead to their right, they followed this around and entered a room full of female clothes of every sort, all in muggle style and of elegant design.
"Your Aunt Dorea had quite the collection then." Hermione smiled. "Should we keep it all for when we're older?"
"I was planning too with the robes, do you like any of this?"
"It's nice, very much what I'd expect a Lady of nobility to wear." She replied pulling out a plain navy coloured dress and holding it up to herself. "Does it suit me?"
"Yes actually if only it were a little smaller."
POP
"Good morning, Lord Harry and Lady Hermione, I am Poppy." A small elf in a purple dress stated. "I am trained in all areas of clothing, from alterations to advise on colours to buying when needed."
"Can you alter this for me it's gorgeous."
Poppy snapped her fingers and the dress shrank, Hermione smiled and began to undress eager to try it on.
"Poppy, you mentioned shopping?" Harry queried.
"Yes my Lord, there be a few places I be knowing to get clothes."
"I need a muggle wardrobe, jeans, shirts, t-shirts, jumpers, and underwear." He stated. "Can you get that?"
"It will be here before dinner, I be getting enough to fill the wardrobe." She replied. "Does Lady Hermione need anything?"
"Only my wardrobe transferring from my parent's house."
Poppy snapped her fingers and clothes filled the racks and shelves behind her.
"I be going shopping now do have a good day."
POP
"She's great." Hermione stated as she adjusted the dress to be more comfortable. "It fits perfectly, and some of those clothes are years old and haven't fit in a long time."
"Well maybe some of your old favourites could fit again." Harry teased. "Anything standing out to you?"
"Yes actually." She said pulling out a yellow plaid sundress. "I wore this every chance I got when I was 8, it'll be nice to wear it again."
"Come on there's still more to see." He said taking her hand and pulling her out of the door.
"Slow down please this dress is a little bit to tight for walking fast."
Harry opened the closest door as they exited the dressing room on the right-hand side of the stairs to find a swimming pool it ran back about the same distance as the gym had, the walls and floor were tiled in a soft brown granite, and as a stark contrast the pool that was only wide enough for the two of them to swim side by side had crystal white walls and and a powder blue floor.
"Care for a dip before bed later?" Hermione asked quizzically.
"I don't have any swim wear." Harry frowned.
"Don't worry I have plenty, but to be honest I wasn't planning on using any." She smirked as she left the room.
The next room was the same size as Harry's new study but contained no furniture, it's walls were painted the purest black, and were covered in portraits of various family members many of which were empty, in the centre of the wall opposite the door stood a woman wearing the same navy dress that Hermione was now wearing.
"Hello Aunt Dorea." Harry said as she looked down at him smiling.
"Harry dear when the Lily told me their other portrait was wake and that you were coming I couldn't believe it." Dorea stated. "And this must be Lady Hermione, found my old wardrobe then?"
"Hello Dorea, sorry I couldn't help myself it was too pretty not to put it on." Hermione apologised. "Although I had to get Poppy to take it in a little."
"I'm not surprised at only 12 years old, but we asked for the wardrobe to be maintained for exactly this reason." Dorea replied softly. "Charlus and I were the last of the Potters left other than James and Lily, so we knew the manor would be passed to them or you Harry, so knowing your ability we decided to keep it all safe for you."
"I take it Charlus can use both frames?" Harry asked.
"Yes, he just prefers to doze in his study." A man to Harry's right answered. "It is good to finally meet my grandson."
"Grandfather?" Harry asked turning to look at him. "Pleased to meet you as well."
"I assume this room is here so you can all give advise to the Lord and Lady of the family." Hermione asked.
"Correct." Charlus answered walking into his frame and kissing his wife. "I commissioned portraits of all remaining family members in 1979 and luckily they were completed before that madman started picking us off, but I hear we might not be in the clear on that front."
"Unfortunately not we we attacked by a wraith like entity less than a month ago that was confirmed as a part of him." Harry replied.
"Wraith you say?" Flemont asked. "I suggest you get a team looking at his past and hunting for a least one Horcrux."
"Yes of course Dad." James said from beside Harry's other side. "Amelia will know who to speak to in the Department of Mysteries they have looked for one for me before, while I was a hit wizard working under an Auror for her predecessor."
"Who's Horcrux?" Harry asked.
"Grindelwald." Lily answered frowning. "Your father was the only one to return, he hid it behind a hydra on some Greek island."
"I'll get Aunt Minnie to talk to her about it tomorrow." Harry replied. "But for now we still have more to look at here, we will come back and talk to you later."
"Goodbye Harry and Hermione." The portraits chorused.
They left the room ensuring to leave the door open, to allow the portraits to call to them if they desired. They climbed the stairs hand in hand and opened the double door at the top and stepped into a large room with windows instead of walls on all three walls other then the one holding the door they had used, they had a excellent view of the forests and could see some of the griffins flying in the distance. The floor was a polished redwood, and the support beams and wall had been painted in a soft green, a large four poster bed stood in the centre of the room with it's headboard on the side facing them, it was carved to show a griffin in flight. There was a sofa on each side of the room both made of scarlet leather and facing to look out over the grounds.
"Well that is a lot of windows." Hermione stated. "What about the mornings I don't want to be woken up at dawn everyday."
"I get the feeling you won't be but I'll ask." Harry replied. "Velma!"
POP
"Yes Lord Harry."
"We have concerns about early morning light and all these windows."
"They be turning black around 3am every night and back again when you be waking up."
"Thank you Velma, has a new mattress been put onto the bed?" Hermione asked. "It's not good to sleep on one used by someone else."
"Yes Lady Hermione, Lady Dorea insisted we get you a new one."
"Thank you Velma can we get some coffee please?" Harry asked.
"Right away my Lord."
POP
A small table appeared in front of them, upon it were to steaming mugs of black coffee a jug of cream and a bowl of sugar cubes. They made their coffees and sat at the foot of their bed looking out over the grounds, daydreaming about the future, just as Harry finished Velma reappeared.
"Sorry to disturb you but your parents and guardian are in the dinning hall waiting for lunch, can we serve them or are you going to join them ?"
"Lead the way please Velma." Hermione stated getting to her feet and pulling Harry to his.
They were lead back through to the library and down a corridor leading off into the west of the manor.
"This is the family dinning room." Velma said as they reached the door. "Your formal dinning room is off the entrance hall and can seat 100 guests with ease."
"Wow that might never get used, until the wedding." Hermione smiled as she opened the door. "Sorry we took so long it's a long way down from the master suite."
"That's ok princess." Her father replied. "We've been exploring, with Fredrick's help."
"There is a full sized heated swimming pool, and the muggle fiction section could keep me busy for years." Viv added.
"Well you could always move in." Harry said as he pulled out a seat for Hermione. "I've plenty of space."
"What about our practice, we couldn't just abandon our patients." Viv protested. "And we couldn't drain your limited resources for the rest of our lives."
"Let me just jump in here." Aunt Minnie stated. "The Ancient and Noble House of Potter has enough resources to support the five of us for more than a thousand years and that's not taking into account the Merlin family fortune or any money that will be given to Harry by his even wealthier godfather."
"Are you serious?" Richard asked. "Well I suppose it would be nice to live a life of pure luxury, and we could sort out selling the practice and the house before we actually move in and that could take a few months maybe until after the school year has finished."
"Well then I suppose it could work, I mean after your 13th birthday Harry it wouldn't be fair to separate the two of you." Viv reasoned with herself. "But is there really enough here for us to occupy our time?"
"The house is connected to the power grid and is able to run any electrical items you may have, and if I remember correctly Dorea had a baking kitchen installed in the east wing so she didn't get in the way of the elves." Aunt Minnie stated. "And there are rooms full of art supplies and a vast array of other things that could occupy your time I believe Flemont was quite the musician in his youth everything from the piano to guitars, and clarinets."
"Sounds like you'll have plenty to do." Harry said as another platter of sandwiches arrived in front of him. "So you sell the house and the practice, but what will you tell your friends?"
"That they're moving so that they are closer to my school." Hermione stated. "It's not technically a lie we are in Scotland after all."
"That reminds me the snow will probably reach us in a day or so." Aunt Minnie stated. "We should probably call on Charlie so he can meet them all before they are out in the cold."
"Can you floo him a message for us after lunch." Hermione asked.
"I'll do it now and get Reggie to bring him to us."
"I take it that's your elf?" Harry asked.
"Not really, but he is one of my favourites." She replied as she left the room.
"So other than meeting the griffins what are you two planning to do this afternoon?" Viv asked.
"Relaxing in our suite, it's soo peaceful up there." Harry replied.
"I know what you mean we have our own space at the castle but it still isn't as peaceful as it is up there." Hermione stated. "What do you think of my dress mum?"
"It's very nice, but where did you get it, it looks like a perfect fit."
"Dorea left us her clothes." Harry answered. "She knew of my shifting ability and thought I might like them and if not my wife would."
"And it fits because Poppy, my new favourite elf, is a seamstress." Hermione added. "Why don't we show them the suite Harry?"
"Sure." He said as he got to his feet. "Come let's go now."
Harry lead them back through the library with Hermione's arm linked around his, as soon as they were inside the suit they headed straight for the portrait room.
"Hello everyone these are my parents, Viv and Richard." Hermione stated as they entered. "This is Lily and James, Harry's parents."
"A pleasure to meet you both." Lily greeted smiling. "Your daughter is amazing we just love her."
James waved at them as he strode towards the edge of the frame.
"Sorry must dash Remus is asking to chat back at Hogwarts."
"Bye Dad." Harry smiled at him. "And over here is my grandfather Fleamont and my Grandmother Euphemia."
"Hang on she's visiting our other portrait in Bell manor." Fleamont stated. "Katie needed some advise I think."
"I'm related to Katie?" Harry questioned.
"You're second cousins I believe." Lily replied. "Her father is Euphemia's nephew if I remember correctly."
"Correct, but it was Helen who needed advise about Katie." Euphemia stated as she walked back into her frame. "But I'm sure Katie will want to chat when she gets home, she normally does."
"Hello grandmother, I'm sorry I didn't speak to you earlier." Harry said frowning.
"That's ok dear there was a lot to take in at that point." She smiled softly. "It is nice to see you surrounded by loving family, especially since none of us can be there for you physically."
"Well he is an amazing young man." Viv stated. "Not everyone would run toward a mountain troll to save someone else."
"You took out a mountain troll?" Fleamont asked.
"Well I had a little help but yes." Harry replied defensively.
"Yes, but he was only there because you dragged him and you practically had to hold his hand the entire time you were rescuing me." Hermione added supportively.
"We might make a Defence Against the Dark Arts master of you yet young one." Fleamont stated. "Just like the rest of us."
"It's a little early for that dear let him grow a bit first." Euphemia stated to calm her husband.
"Uncle Charlus can I have a word in my study?" Harry asked.
"Of course my boy, I'll meet you over there."
"Everything ok?" Hermione asked.
"Yeah just want to ask about some Lords stuff, you show your parents around." He replied as they left the room.
"Why don't we look at the study first so we don't disturb Harry later?" Richard suggested.
"Sounds good." Harry replied. "It's right over here."
Viv and Richard both poked their heads into the room before moving away with Hermione.
"Charlus?" Harry asked as he took his seat and looked up at the empty frame.
"Sorry lad, Lily just wanted to remind me to ease you in to the Lords business slowly." The old man huffed as he took his seat and ran his fingers through his silver hair. "Not that I needed reminding, you are only 11 after all."
"That's ok it's just nice to have you all back in my corner again."
"So how can I help?"
"Well I wanted to know whose businesses were whose so I can get advise from the previous owner should I need it."
"Well Sleek Easy's was created by my father and has pretty much run itself since he passed and I gave control over to the research team, Nimbus was mine and again they do well enough without input but as a seeker they may like a younger perspective, the Harpies I invested in for Dorea."
"I'm already investing about 10 million into new equipment for them on Aunt Minnie's suggestion seems they've been a little under funded these last 10 years."
"Good lad, now Potter's field and the Cauldron belonged to my son, but he didn't have much of a head for business and hired a good manager for both, so just have Ragnok contact them for you. And lastly our American shop was the brain child of my sister who sadly passed in the late sixties and left Dorea in charge I believe she hired another witch stateside to see to the day to day running, again I'd ask Ragnok to get in touch for you."
"I was debating on asking for a run of clothes from them for Hermione." Harry stated. "Is that too much to ask for?"
"No should be fine, but in that case send Poppy with your regards and congratulations to a successful ten years." Charlus stated. "Tell them to keep up the good work and ask for one of every item to be given to Poppy."
"Sounds good, I'll speak to Nimbus as well to see if they have anything they can offer." Harry said. "I like my 2000 but I'd like something different for general use and for Hermione my Quidditch broom is too fast for her."
"Shouldn't be a problem I got James' chaser broom from them while he was at school, outclassed everyone else."
"Thank you Charlus." Harry stated calmly. "Any advise on the Wizenagmot?"
"Not really, I'm 10 years out of the game but always beware the Malfoys." He replied.
"Well they might not be a problem, they owe us 20 million Galleons and don't have it I'm requesting property and businesses to the value of and if that's not enough I'll remove their nobility completely."
"20 million? How? I never lent them a Knut."
"Apparently we gave it to them in the early 1800s when they came over from France."
"Yes my great grandfather was a little too trusting, but that is a good plan it will set a precedent that you aren't to be messed with by anyone."
"Harry dear, I'm sorry to interrupt but the Weasleys have arrived." Aunt Minnie said opening the office door. "They are waiting for you in the parlour next to the family dinning room."
"Thanks Aunt Minnie, I'll get the others and meet you down there." Harry replied. "Thank for the chat Uncle Charlus."
He found Hermione and her mother looking through her new wardrobe.
"Hey beautiful, we need to go back to the dinning room." He greeted giving her a kiss. "Charlie is waiting in the parlour next to it."
"I'd better change then." She stated calmly. "I can't go outside in this."
"We'll leave you to it." Viv said taking ahold of Harry's arm. "Come on my husband wanted to speak to your parents about something."
The found Richard stood in front of Lily frowning deeply.
"What's up hun?" Viv asked as they entered what Harry was now calling the family room.
"It's nothing really." He replied not looking at his wife or Harry. "It's just you really weren't wrong the two of them have been sharing a room for over a month."
"Well if it will put your mind at ease sir." Harry stated calmly. "I, Lord Harry James Potter-Merlin-Dumbledore hereby promise not to pressure your into doing anything sexual that she doesn't want to."
"And a mere promise is supposed to make me feel more at ease with the whole thing?" Richard demanded over the gasps of the portraits around him.
"Young man, you have no idea what just happened do you." Charlus said to Richard. "Lord Harry James Potter-Merlin-Dumbledore, Head of the Ancient and Noble Houses of Potter, Merlin, and Dumbledore, Heir to the Ancient and Noble House of Black, just promised not to deflower your daughter without her express consent, doing so will cause him to lose his magic and possibly kill him due to the size of his core."
"Oh."
"I think it needs more than a syllable." Viv chastised him.
"Harry I'm sorry I didn't know how binding a promise could be in the magical world."
"Most aren't." Lily stated
"But our rather clever son worded it in just the right way to cause the terms of breaking it." James stated aggressively walking back into the frame. "And seeing as there is no possible way he would ever hurt your daughter, your concerns are completely unfounded."
"What's going on?" Hermione asked as she entered the room, having changed back into her jeans and t-shirt.
"Nothing important Princess." Richard stated. "I'm just being over protective of you again."
"Oh, are you upset about the whole room sharing thing?" She questioned as she slipped her hand into Harry's. "Because nothings happened, he's been the perfect gentleman."
"I know sweetie, it's just difficult for a father to hear his daughter is sharing a room with a boy and no chaperone."
"Come on we're keeping this Charlie waiting." Viv stated leaving the room, and calling back. "It's a long way down to the dinning room remember."
"I'm sorry I questioned you Harry." Richard stated. "I shouldn't have forced you to make such a heavy promise."
He left the room following his wife, Harry kissed Hermione quickly before they followed after him.
"So what happened?" Hermione asked.
"Well I gather that Mum told him we're sharing a room and he was sort of upset." Harry explained. "So I made a magical promise, not to force myself on you in anyway."
"So when we get that far I either need to give you express consent for the first time we do everything or initiate it?"
"Or I'll loose my magic and possibly die, yeah."
"You're an idiot, but you're my idiot." She replied softly. "I love you Harry, you really didn't need to do that."
"No I did, I don't think you'd have been allowed to stay in the suite tonight if I hadn't."
"Maybe, but they've always trusted me before."
"And that's why I took me out of the equation if they only need to rely on you to know when you're ready and not worry about me pressuring you, they know they can trust you."
Hermione smiled, and they walked in silence the rest of the way to the parlour finding Viv and Richard waiting outside for them. Harry smiled at them briefly before he opened the door and walked into a bright room with white walls that seemed to be the source of the rooms light, there was a large fireplace with a chocolate brown marble mantle and surround on the wall opposite the door and a black leather sofa large enough to seat 6 people on each side of the room. The Weasleys were sat on the left hand side and Aunt Minnie on the right, Harry and the Grangers joined her.
"Good afternoon, Mr Weasley. It is a pleasure to see you again." Harry stated. "Mrs Weasley, I must once again thank you for your help at Kings Cross in September."
"Good afternoon, Lord Potter-Merlin-Dumbledore." Mr Weasley greeted. "May I introduce Charlie, your new griffin keeper, and my daughter Ginny. And please call me Arthur."
"It's a pleasure to meet you both." Harry stated. "Now, may I formally introduce you to the future Lady Hermione Potter-Merlin-Dumbledore and her parents Vivienne and Richard Granger."
"Your already engaged?" Mrs Weasley questioned clearly shocked.
"Well to be honest he named me as his betrothed when he claimed his lordship and I just didn't complain." Hermione stated. "But he is my soulmate, so it does make sense."
Ginny scowled at Hermione when she had finished speaking, Harry noticed this as he stood up. He raised his eyebrows at her and she blushed turning a deep shade of red.
"Shall we go and meet the herd?" Harry asked as everyone else got to their feet. "Fredrick?"
POP
"Yes Lord Potter?"
"Can you gather the herd near the edge of the forest for us?"
"I can do better than that, it's nearly time for their daily feed and groom." The little elf replied excitedly. "They'll be entering the paddock near the rear patio as we speak."
"Daily feed?" Charlie questioned. "Don't they hunt for themselves?"
"Not anymore I started to feed the daily a few years ago when it appeared that they weren't eating." Fredrick answered as he lead them through the manor and out through an external door on the ground floor of the library. "The Alpha male, Zeus still hunts for himself but the rest rely on me."
"Well after today that will be changing, what's the distribution of the herd like?" Charlie asked.
"9 males, 13 females, 7 younglings." Fredrick answered. "But I've been unable to ascertain the genders of the young so far the eldest is still only 6 years old."
"Well that shouldn't be a problem, how old is Zeus?"
"He's the oldest griffin here actually, a healthy 67 years." The elf replied. "He's been alpha for more than 40 years."
They reached the paddock as a grey feathered griffin with white fur landed before them, it cawed aggressively at the strangers, before Fredrick rushed forward.
"Hush Zeus, this is the new Lord and Lady Potter." He said rubbing the creatures bird like front appendage. "Remember I told you they were coming."
Zeus cawed again bowing his head to Harry and Hermione, as the rest of the herd landed around him. Harry held tightly to Hermione's hand as they cautiously stepped into the paddock towards the might beast that towered above them.
"Ok Harry, Hermione, " Charlie called from the paddocks gate. "Hold out your hands palm facing him let him smell you."
They followed his instructions, and Zeus sniffed Harry before he rubbed his beak against him and turned to Hermione. He sniffed her more closely, brought one of his eyes to be level with hers. He looked at her for a few minutes before nuzzled his face against her shoulder.
"Yes." Charlie cried from outside the paddock. "That perfect, his recognised you as his equal Harry, and you as a member of his herd Hermione."
"Really?" She questioned. "What does that mean?"
"It means he will protect both of you with his life if he has to."
"Zeus." Harry said calmly. "I have a new beast master to help look after your herd, may I introduce you to him?"
Zeus bowed his head and laid down on the ground showing his consent. Charlie copied the motions he had had Harry and Hermione perform, Zeus sniffed him, cawed softly and rested his head on his taloned feet.
"Excellent." Charlie said as he began to check Zeus over. "His feathers are healthy and exceptionally clean, his talons are perfectly sharpened." He stated moving around Zeus. "His fur has a great shine and his pads and claws are in great shape."
"Good to hear." Harry stated stroking Zeus' head gently. "Will you let Charlie check everyone else?"
Zeus cawed softly and didn't move to stop Charlie as he approached the smallest griffin and its mother.
"Now then big guy." Harry said and Zeus moved his head to be level with his. "I need you to get the rest of these guys hunting properly again, I will keep some choice cuts of meat around as treats if we're in the grounds but you're still predators they need to know how to look after themselves."
Zeus cawed loudly as he nuzzled into Harry.
"Anyone else want to say hello?" Hermione called to the rest of the group who were watching from the fence. "How about you Ginny? It'll give you something to wow your new school mates when you start next year"
The young redhead stepped slowly into the paddock and carefully towards Zeus. She repeated the movements her brother had made, Zeus sniffed her once looked between her and Charlie, cawing quietly and resting his head nearer to her.
"You're a natural Ginny." Charlie called. "We'll have you taming dragons in no time."
As soon as Charlie had finished his checks on the entire herd Zeus stood bowed to Harry before he took off into the sky, every griffin stepped forwards bowed to Harry before following their alpha deep into the woods.
"They are all healthy enough." Charlie stated as the moved back inside the house. "And there should be plenty of wild animals around to sustain them, the elk in the region are fairly large."
"Will you be staying here or with your parents?" Hermione asked as they reentered the parlour.
"It will be easier if I'm here, just in case, I think one of the females is carrying a foal." He explained. "She wouldn't let me examine her fully."
"Well there are plenty of rooms." Harry stated. "Why don't you move in tomorrow?"
"Sounds good." Charlie replied. "Do you mind if I have an elf collect my things?"
"Not a problem." Harry stated. "Aunt Minnie do you think we could let the rest of the Weasleys return home via here tomorrow?"
"I'll arrange it with Professor Flitwick later." She smiled. "If that's ok with you Molly?"
"That will be wonderful I thought it would take longer to sort all of this out if I'm honest." She smiled. "They could have come home on the train."
"That's ok Mrs Weasley." Hermione stated. "It's not like Fred, George, or Percy will mind a days delay and Ronald is still learning that the world doesn't revolve around him."
"Why do you call him Ronald?" Ginny asked shyly.
"Because your brother isn't in my good graces, he insulted my intelligence after I tried to help him, and he caused me to be in the path of a mountain troll that was attacking the school."
"How did you survive a troll?" She asked innocently.
"Harry came to my rescue dragging your brother with him." She smiled hugging Harry again. "He's my knight in shinning armour."
"You're so lucky, it's like your own fairytale."
"That's enough Ginny." Mrs Weasley stated from where she was waiting by the fireplace. "It's time to go home, we need to get ready for your brothers return tomorrow."
"Well that was exciting." Viv said as the mother and daughter disappeared it a swirl of emerald flames. "Now that that's over, we can discuss plans for the remainder of Christmas."
"Oh?" Hermione queried, with a raised eyebrow. "What's happening? I thought we were going to France tomorrow."
"No I cancelled that holiday as soon as I found out that we couldn't add Harry." Richard answered. "But this place needs some decorations before it really starts to feel like Christmas."
"Thank you Daddy." She exclaimed hugging him tightly. "But you could have told us sooner, Harry gave me my present early."
"Well one of them." Harry said quietly looking at his feet.
"How much did you spend on me?" She demanded smiling.
"Not as much as I wanted to, Aunt Minnie reigned me in a little."
"I should say, there is plenty of time to spoil her in the years to come." Aunt Minnie stated shaking her head.
"But I haven't gotten you anything yet." Hermione pouted looking at Harry.
"Well why don't we go to Diagon Alley, Princess?" Richard asked.
"I'll come with you." Aunt Minnie stated. "You can use Harry's trust vault after all Sirius did give the money to both of you."
"And while you're gone Harry and I can set about decorating." Viv added.
"Fine I suppose I can do that." Hermione said relenting.
She kissed Harry, blushing as she knew her parents were watching, before she took her fathers hand and flooed to the Leaky Cauldron. It was almost dinner time by the time they returned, the house was covered in garlands lit with real fairies, the was a Christmas tree in every room decorated in red and gold. They found Harry and Viv in the library, Harry had his nose buried in a book about his family magic, while Viv was wandering the muggle fiction section with a notepad and pen jotting down a list of books she'd never had the time to read.
"Hey beautiful." Harry greeted looking up from his book. "Get everything you wanted?"
"Yes, Fredrick is wrapping them for me." She smiled as she perched on the padded arm of his chair. "What are you reading?"
"It's an explanation of the workings of the family magic that Grandfather wrote when Uncle Charlus struggled to get his head around them properly after becoming Lord Potter."
"Is it helping?"
"Very much so." Harry replied putting a bookmark in his page and closing the book. "There is a spell created by my Great, Great, Grandmother that allows me to apperate all members of any of my Houses into the main entrance of this house, no matter where they are or what they are doing."
"That could be embarrassing."
"Extremely and I hope to never need to use it, but it could come in handy if Voldemort does return. It's just that to protect everyone of our friends they would need to be either a member of my house or under it's protection."
"Well I'm sure we'll figure something out." She said sitting in his lap. "But there's plenty of time for that later. Right now you just need to focus on being you, I love you Harry and wanting to help everyone is great but you can't put the weight of the world and what might happen on your shoulders."
"I know Mione it's just hard not to it feels like becoming a Lord has kind of robbed me of yet more of my childhood, the Dursley's took most of it and now I'm not even sure I'm going to get much time to grow as a person before I get hounded by adults for answers."
"You worry too much, you did make Aunt Minnie your proxy for the Wizenagmot and we have Ranog at Gringotts for all of the financial aid we need they will be quite straight with us with any queries we have."
"Yeah you're right as you always are." He replied kissing her cheek. "Come on, let's go see what's for diner."
They slowly meandered through the house towards the dining room, as they entered the corridor they were met with an unexpected guest, Cornelius Fudge was stood arguing with Aunt Minnie outside the doorway the parlour.
"I'm sorry Minerva but my hands are tied he will have to appear before the Wizenagmot tomorrow to face the accusations of the house of Malfoy." They overheard him say to her.
"But they are unfounded and just another attempt to get out of paying back the fortune they owe him." She replied.
"What's going on?" Harry asked as they got closer.
"Harry..." Fudge started.
"It's Lord Potter-Merlin-Dumbledore or am I allowed to call you Cornelius?"
"Very well, Lord Harry James Potter-Merlin-Dumbledore you are here by required to submit a testimony to the Wizenagmot tomorrow regarding your altercation with Heir Draco Malfoy outside of your quarters at the school a few weeks ago."
"I'll submit a memory of the event, as will my fiancé." Harry stated calmly. "And before you complain I as the head of my house have the right to decide how the testimony is given, I'll have Aunt Minnie show us how to remove them and she will bring them with her tomorrow, now as a warning if the Noble House of Malfoy continues this farce of refusing me my rightfully owed fortune I will be forced to have my proxy request ownership of the house and all its assets be transferred to me."
"Yes we'll I'm afraid we can't accept a memory as testimony in this case." Fudge began fidgeting slightly.
"Under the laws set out by the Wizenagmot at it's founding and I haven't yet seen any new changes to them the right to submit a memory as testimony is the preferred medium as they are harder to falsify than a recited one." Harry argued. "Further more as I am still under the age of maturity, regardless of my emancipation, I will not set foot inside the Wizenagmot chamber until I am ready. I have named a woman I trust implicitly as my proxy and if Lord Malfoy wishes to challenge me openly he is welcome to do so but again I will name a proxy as I am in my first year of schooling, I believe Professor Flitwick was once a champion duelist and I doubt he will deny my request."
"Yes of course Lord Potter." Fudge answered. "I must commend your rather quick study of our laws most people your age don't have a clue."
"Well I'm not most people, and I have been given extra instruction in these matters by specialised tutors."
"Very well, do have a good evening." Fudge nodded at them. "I'll see you tomorrow Minerva."
"Farewell Minister, and next time you want to chat I require 2 full days notice in writing and if you turn up unannounced again it will be considered trespassing and my wards will deposit you somewhere very far away."
"Oh really, I doubt you can even comprehend the magic needed to change their target location for unwanted guests."
"Actually it was already set to a more than fitting one when I checked them earlier, while I was explaining them to Harry." Aunt Minnie stated.
The minister frowned and stormed back into the parlour and left through the fireplace in a whirl of emerald flames. Harry opened the dinning room door to find Hermione's parents staring at him completely dumbfounded at the conversation they had just overheard.
"Sorry about that." He said as he pulled a chair out for their daughter. "I just hate being strong armed by anyone who assumes they know better than I do."
"It's quite alright." Richard replied.
"So our wards have a relocation charm?" Hermione asked.
"Yes but I don't know where it's set to, I do know that it can be changed though." Harry answered.
"It's currently set to a deep ice ravine in Antartica, but I would suggest changing it to a country with a magical government as this will hinder the potential intruders return." Aunt Minnie informed them.
"I was thinking the peak of Mount Everest." Harry stated as he took his own seat.
"A good choice, the Nepalese Ministry isn't big on unexpected arrivals. I'll change it after dinner, I would let you do it but if you miss a wand movement you could bring down the wards completely."
"Best not to then."
CRACK.
"My apologies for the delay in serving dinner but a guest already known to the wards has arrived on the front lawn and is on his way here." Velma stated. "I shall serve as soon as the gentleman is seated."
"Thank you Velma, but who is it?" Hermione asked.
"He is known to us as Moony, Lady Hermione, we is not asking his full name."
"Thank you anyway."
CRACK
"Moony?" Viv questioned.
"I believe it's uncle Remus, he is a werewolf after all." Harry stated calmly.
"A werewolf?" Richard chocked on his tea.
"It's perfectly safe Daddy, he only changes on a full moon and we have a portion that allows him to retain the rational part of his brain when he does change." Hermione advises her father.
"Indeed we do." Remus stated from the doorway. "I only wish it were more readily available to the rest of my afflicted brethren."
"I thought you were staying at the school, why did you decide to join us?" Harry asked as Remus sat down.
"Well to be honest I was always going to return to Moons View over the Yule break but I decided to come here first to see if you needed anything." He stated as a large rare steak, swimming in blood appeared on his plate, a stark contrast to the beef roast and all the trimmings being served to everyone else. "That and James is a little concerned about the lack of male influence in your life."
"Oh, I guess a muggle doesn't count in the eyes of a wizard then." Richard snapped angrily at their guest.
"On the contrary, James is pleased with your presence in Harry's life." Remus stated. "It is rather his lack of Marauder influences that has James upset."
"Marauder?" Viv questioned.
"It was the name we gave ourselves as a group of friends." Remus explained. "We got up to quite a bit of mischief during our tenure at the school."
"That's putting it lightly." Aunt Minnie stated. "The only reason I helped James with his animagus change is because he wanted to help you during the full moons."
"What's an animagus?" Viv asked.
"The ability to become an animal." Hermione answered her mother. "Aunt Minnie can become a cat."
"James was a stag, Sirius was a dog, and Peter was a rat he did try and become something larger but he never did manage." Remus stated.
The rest of dinner had Remus answering Harry and Hermione's many questions about the Marauders and their adventures, not long after dinner they bid farewell to Remus and retired to the sanctuary of their suite.
"Well that was an eventful day." Harry said as he flopped down on to the bed.
"Yes it certainly was." Hermione replied looking out over the grounds at the end of the room. "It's going to be hard returning to Hogwarts after 2 weeks of luxury."
"I know what you mean." He agreed. "Now how about that swim you promised me."
"I thought you'd forgotten." She smiled taking off her t-shirt. "Naked or costumed?"
"You decide." Harry said following her lead and getting undressed.
They swam naked together for a few hours before they were too tired to carry on, luckily they discovered that they were completely dry upon exiting the pool room. They fell asleep in each other's arms contentedly. The week leading up to Christmas was filled with exploration as Harry and Hermione came to terms with the vast size of the manor that was now their home, they spent their evenings in the library their noses buried in books. They awoke on Christmas morning to find a thick blanket of snow had descended over the lawns.
"Merry Christmas handsome." Hermione said kissing him as he woke up.
"Merry Christmas beautiful." He greeted her groggily. "How long have you been up?"
"Not long, I ordered you a coffee."
"You know me too well." He joked as he hugged her. "What time is it anyway?"
"Just past 6, mum and dad won't be up for a while how about a quick swim?"
"I'll meet you down there I want to finish my coffee first."
"Don't take too long I was going to shower before I get dressed and you know how my hair gets when it's dried too quickly."
Harry watched her leave before he got up to collect his coffee from the table they had added in front of the sofa at the foot of the bed, by the time he was done with his coffee and gone to find Hermione she was already in the shower. He smiled softly before diving into the pool to swim a few lengths before he joined her under the steaming hot water, just as she was starting to wash her hair, he helped her as best as he could knowing how unruly it could get. Once they were both clean the relaxed beside the pool lazily kicking their feet about in the water until Velma informed them that breakfast was going to be ready soon. Hermione dressed in an emerald green dress that had been sent from their American store, it covered only her left shoulder flowing down to her waist in tight fitting ruffles before flaring out into a wide skirt, while Harry chose a plain shirt and slacks. They found the Grangers, Aunt Minnie, Remus, and a man with long greying hair and solemn looking face that was showing a broad smile in the library gathered around a Christmas tree that was surrounded by a veritable mountain of gifts.
"It must be Sirius." Hermione said as they descended the stairs from the upper walkway.
"He looks really ill maybe he shouldn't have come." Harry replied.
"Don't be silly, it'll be good for both of you to see each other if only for a little while."
"We'll see I don't want him to over do it."
"I know but only he will know and I doubt he'll tell us."
POP
"Breakfast is ready Lord Harry, where should I serve it?"
"At the table by the tree just there, will be fine Josie."
"Of course my Lord."
POP
"I love that little one." Hermione stated smiling at him. "She's so quiet, do you think the others could change their aparation noise to a soft pop like her?"
POP
"As you command Lady Potter." Velma stated.
"Wow you really can hear me anywhere." Hermione replied surprisedly.
"You are the Lady of the House we could hear you if you were on the other side of the world."
"Good to know, thank you for listening those loud cracks were starting to be annoying."
"Not a problem my Lady they also require extra magic as we move so it is a pleasure to accommodate you."
"So that's why Josie is always quiet." Harry said. "She's always cooking and needs her magic."
"Indeed sir, do have a good breakfast."
POP
And the table in front of the rest of the rooms occupants was full of all manner of breakfast food as soon as she was gone, Sirius beamed at the table and instantly started to scan the room for Harry knowing that the elves would never serve guests without the Lord present. Remus saw the look in his eye and knew what was coming, quickly levitating the table out of the way as Sirius became a big black dog and vaulted over the sofa towards the couple, bowling Harry over as he jumped up to greet him, licking his face as he pinned him to the floor.
"Hey Pads, but I'd much rather see my godfather before we play ok."
Padfoot whined, got off of Harry and became Sirius again before helping him to his feet.
"You know the name of my Grim?" Sirius questioned pulling him into a hug.
"Not really it just sort of felt right." Harry replied.
"It's probably a memory from when you were a baby." Hermione stated. "I assume James and Lily used it a lot, so it would be a name you learned."
"Well James always called us Marauders by our chosen names it annoyed Lily to no end." Sirius replied. "But that never stopped her calling him Prongs."
"Yes always seemed strange to me but there we go, now how about we eat?" Remus asked.
While they eat Sirius regaled Harry and Hermione with some of the more mischievous stories about James and Lily that Remus had been holding back.
"So, Richard I hear you're planning on moving in." Sirius said.
"Well we need to settle up our business and sell the house first but that is the plan."
"Is there much left on the mortgage?"
"Not really we've been lucky with the practice and been paying it off quickly."
"Then why don't you pay it off after you've sold the dental practice, is it? Then rent it out for extra income, you'll make more money in the long run."
"I hadn't thought about that." Viv stated looking at her husband. "It would mean that we'd be able to contribute for longer."
"I suppose that does make sense, I'll talk to Reg when we get home he rents out his parents old house, he'll be able to advise us on the dos and don'ts." Richard replied. "But that's enough about money let's just celebrate Christmas shall we."
"Agreed." Aunt Minnie stated. "Now let's do this logically, I'll go first as I've only gotten things for Harry and Hermione." She levitated a couple of small parcels wrapped in tartan paper towards them.
"Thanks Aunt Minnie, but you really didn't have to." Harry stated.
"Nonsense, you're the son I never got to have, and should have been looking after for the last 10 years." She replied. "Besides I know you got something for me so it's only fair."
"Stop complaining." Hermione said poking Harry in the ribs. "Let the people who care for you spoil you."
Harry just smiled and turned his attention to the gift on his lap, carefully removing the colourful paper to reveal a leather bound notebook inlayed with a small lightning bolt and his initials, he looked over at Hermione and found her holding a matching book sans the lightning bolt.
"These are ever expanding notebooks they will provide more pages as you need them, and will allow you to separate the book into sections if you wish." Aunt Minnie informed them. "I know you've got Lily's notes, but I thought you'd like a space to make your own."
"It's wonderful." Hermione beamed. "I wish I'd had it at the start of term."
"We can always add the notes we already have." Harry stated smiling at her. "That way we can incorporate the additional research we've done."
"I'm sure you'll find some useful books in here as well." Remus stated. "Now onto mine."
He stood and passed them a single large present.
"That's not what I think it is, is it?" Sirius asked.
"By request of James." Remus smiled.
Harry looked at them smiling.
"It's the book you all used to learn to transform, isn't it?" He asked a tear forming in the corner of his eye as Hermione tore of the paper. "Aren't we a little young for that?"
"It's just the material and with Minerva to watch over you you'll be fine." Remus smiled at them. "Plus I'd love for you to beat the rest of the Marauders."
"I doubt they'll manage it before 5th year." Sirius stated.
"Can I even do this?" Harry questioned. "I'm a metamorphmagi wouldn't that get in the way?"
"It is rare most people with your ability don't see the need to." Remus stated. "But being able to become another creature entirely might prove useful."
"Won't we become a similar animals, as we'll be joined by the time we manage it?" Hermione asked.
"Most likely, but we won't know until we can get you to successfully meditate into a lucid dream." Aunt Minnie stated. "That's what takes so long most people aren't able to reach the right state of mind, while others give up and use a potion to force the change."
"We had to brew that for Peter." Sirius stated. "It was difficult, we had to steal from Slughorn to do it, not that he ever minded losing the ingredients if it meant we were practicing potions."
"I'll get to reading as soon as I've finished copying my note later." Hermione smiled. "Thank you Remus it was good of you to find the book for us."
"There was no finding involved, I kept it in my vault at Gringotts." He replied smiling. "It reminded me of the good times and to be honest I'd always planned to teach Harry in secret so we could prank Padfoot and Prongs."
"It was bad enough he kept changing his appearance." Sirius stated. "How would Lily have handled another animagus in the house?"
"Terribly, but I had planned to get her permission first."
"Of course you did." Sirius smiled shaking his head. "Anyway on to my gifts." He stood up and conjured a large red sack before him. "Right then, Remus this is for you. Viv and Richard yours is joint I hope you like it I wasn't sure quite what to get seeing as I only met you today, Minerva yours is this little one, and lastly Harry and Hermione yours are also joint gifts." He placed 3 parcels wrapped in pure black paper before them.
The first package Harry opened was a black leather bound book with no markings on its cover.
"The Black Grimoire?" Hermione asked opening the cover.
"You are to be Lord and Lady Black in the future you need to know our magic and traditions, I would recommend finding the Dumbledore and Merlin versions as well." He stated. "We can add a new section in here for family magics that only those who are here right now can access."
"Sounds good." Harry replied picking up the next parcel, and carefully removing the black paper. "A mirror?"
"Not just any mirror, it's connected to another one that I have all you need to do to talk to me is say my name and it will connect you to mine, I've also left one with your parents this morning Hermione so you can talk to them in private. It means that you won't need to use owls for private conversations."
"Did dad have one of these?" Harry asked.
"That was his one."Sirius smiled. "He decided that it would be best if I held onto both as we had no way of knowing if You-Know-Who would be able to trace the connection if he ever found mine."
"Thanks Sirius, you've no idea what this means to me."
"I think I do." He replied. "There are only a few of their things that survived the explosion that ripped that house apart, and most of them mean too much to the people that have them for them to share that connection with you, while I miss them dearly, I'd rather be connected to you than keep their possessions hidden away."
"That is the other reason for giving you the book." Remus stated. "It was a gift given to James by his aunt in America not long before she died."
"Now come on there's one more to open." Sirius smiled at them.
The last package was cylindrical, and about 14 inches long.
"That isn't what I thing it is, is it?" Aunt Minnie asked.
Harry slowly peeled back the wrapping to find a glass tube containing two wands slowly rotating around as they floated in the middle of the container.
"You saved their wands?" Harry asked unable to hold back the tears in his eyes.
"I sent them to my own vault at Gringotts with Kreacher my mother's house elf, if anyone else had found them you'd never have been given them." Sirius stated. "The cylinder is unbreakable so nobody else will ever be able to use them."
"You can put them on the desk in the study if you like." Hermione said giving him a hug.
"Yeah, that'll be nice." He whispered. "Is it weird that I suddenly feel more connected to them now, just by being able to hold their wands?"
"Not at all Pronglet." Sirius said kneeling before him. "A persons wand is a reflection of who they are, at the last point they used these they left an imprint of their love for you on them. Every spell they cast for your protection was all the more powerful because of that love."
"Thanks Padfoot." He sighed giving his godfather a hug. "I didn't know I need these until you gave them to me."
After a few minutes Viv got up and collected her and Richard's gifts for Harry and Hermione, she placed a large box before each of them, and sat down to wait for Sirius to let Harry go.
"Now then." Richard said smiling at his daughter. "The problem we were faced with was what to get for a young couple who could buy literally anything they wanted."
"Okay?" Hermione said, starting to open her box.
"So we decided to opt for the one thing that we know that our little princess has always loved." He continued. "But we never let you have too much of."
"Chocolate!" Hermione squealed. "This much will last me all year."
"You're lucky Ron doesn't know about it it wouldn't last more than a hour in his company." Harry laughed opening a bar. "You remember the train ride at the start of the year most if those empty boxes were his doing."
"Don't remind me the sight made me nauseous." She sighed. "The way he eats is the stuff of nightmares."
"Enough about him, why spoil a perfect morning?" Aunt Minnie asked rhetorically.
"Where did you hide my gifts then?" Hermione asked turning to stare at Harry.
"Me? Nowhere." He smiled. "Velma."
As he spoke the elf's name several small parcels appeared on the table.
"That's cheating if been looking everywhere for these."
"I know that's why I moved them from my desk and gave them to Velma."
"That was the second place I looked." She whined.
"I watched you snoop around in my side of the wardrobe." He laughed. "So I went and gave them to Velma."
"You big meanie, I wanted to see how many there were."
"Why?"
"Because I was worried I'd gotten you too much."
"Trust me you didn't."
"Just open them princess." Richard said chuckling.
Hermione ripped open the closest present revealing a matching box to the necklace she had opened at Hogwarts. She smiled at him and opened the box to reveal a key attached to a long chain.
"Is this the appiration key for the manor?" She asked. "I thought we agreed you'd keep it yourself."
"No, this is your key it's an exact copy of mine and I wanted you to have it just in case we're ever separated and in danger." Harry explained. "I need to know you're able to get yourself to safety if you ever need to."
"Thank you, but I hope I never need to use it for that." She said giving him a quick peck on the cheek
The next package she opened contained a small peacock feather quill and a large ink bottle.
"It's an self replenishing quill as long as there's ink in the bottle you never need to dip quill." He told her. "And I found a simple replenishing charm that means you'll never have to refill the bottle."
"Now you're just not playing fair." She teased him. "I looked at these in Diagon Alley when I was there in August."
"I know Aunt Minnie told me, she saw you whilst she was leading the muggleborn orientation."
"Of course she did."
"Come on last one." Harry prompted.
"He's just like James the first Christmas he was with Lily." Sirius said to Remus.
"I know, he's gotten her everything she wanted."
"I can't open the box." Hermione stated in obvious frustration.
"Well it's not really your box to open." Harry said taking it from her, and getting down on one knee. "While I know we're already betrothed I feel that a proper proposal is needed." He said opening the box to reveal a golden ring housing a large crimson ruby. "Hermione Jean Granger, would you do me the honour of becoming my wife, and the Lady to all of my houses."
"I hate you." She said through her tears. "But of course I will, I love you."
"And now he's blown his old dad out of the water, Lily didn't cry with happiness." Remus smiled.
"Tears of frustration at our constant mocking of James maybe, but no not of happiness." Sirius replied beaming at the young couple.
"You had to make me cry didn't you?" Hermione said slapping Harry's chest lightly as he hugged her. "How am I going to top a proposal?"
"Hey, I was going to let you go first but you just couldn't wait 5 minutes, could you?"
"I'm sorry Christmas has always made me a little crazy."
"So where are did you hide mine?"
"Can you get them please Daddy."
"Already did Princess, they're under the table."
"How did I miss that?" She asked questioning her sanity. "Ok this one first." She said handing him a small box wrapped in golden paper.
Harry unwrapped it carefully revealing a plain brown box, as he opened it a golden ball sprang into the. Air hovering in front of him.
"It's a practice snitch." Hermione explained. "You did brilliantly in your first match but I though this would help."
"It's fantastic, I wish I'd had this before the match the the few hours I had with the real one wasn't really enough." He replied catching the snitch again and picking her up in a big hug. "Now what's next?" He asked as he boxed the snitch again.
"This one." She said placing a much larger box in front of him.
"This is suspiciously broom shaped." Harry said as he undid the paper carefully at one end.
"Why are you so careful with the paper?" Sirius asked.
"Aunt Petunia always told me off if I ripped the paper, she would try to reuse the same paper for me every year, so since I was 5 I have never ripper the paper." He replied as he finally freed the box from the it's wrappings.
"Well I want you to rip the last one open." Hermione stated smiling. "Otherwise I'll be keeping it for myself."
Harry opened the box to find a framed picture surrounded in straw packaging, the non-moving picture showed the Hogwarts quidditch field from Harry's first match complete with his friends banner, as he picked up the frame the wind began to jostle the banner and the rest of the Gryffindor quidditch team carried him into the picture on their shoulders, just as they had at the end of the match.
"Who took the picture?" Harry asked with a smile plastered to his face.
"One of the Ravenclaw student did and brought it to Aunt Minnie after he'd developed it." Hermione stated. "And I though the having your first victory framed would be nice."
"And you complained that I made you cry." He said wiping a tear from his own eye, before handing the frame to Sirius.
"Now remember rip the paper." Hermione said smiling as she handed him the smallest box she had gotten him.
Harry tore the paper off the present with gusto quickly revealing a small green box marked with a crest unknown to him, he opened the box to find the a golden chain bracelet, about half an inch wide the words "I will always love you!" were inscribed into it's 3 inch long face plate in Hermione's tidy handwriting.
"It's beautiful thank you."
"It's to match the locket you got me."