Stone Angels

Stone Angels
For Griphook’s enjoyment or Not even the Marauders

Hermione bolted upright with her sheet clutched to her chest. Her throat burned with the after-effects of a scream while hot tears streaked down her pale cheeks. One trembling hand reached out to find her robe. In one sweeping motion she slid into the robe and grabbed her journal and pen from her nightstand before running from the room. She rushed through her common room and passed a very confused Severus Snape. With her journal clutched to her chest, she ran down the hall and stairs, two lefts into the lounge and out the door. Her feet carried her down the path, passed the well manicured rose gardens towards the lake.

When she finally reached the edge of the lake, she allowed herself to collapse in the dew-soaked grass. Around her the fog swirled and shimmered in the light of the waning moon. Tears fell like diamonds from her topaz eyes blurring her vision as she tried to write down her overwhelming feelings. She was so caught up in her task that she didn’t notice the cold or the way it caused her to tremble.

Severus Snape barely recognized the figure that bolted through the common room he shared with Hermione. He vaguely noticed her lack of footwear and flimsy dressing gown as he put down his book. Grabbing a throw blanket from the back of their loveseat he stood to follow her. Not for the first time he wished that the map was finished. Following her through the house proved to be easier than expected as she left each door she pushed through open. It wasn’t until he reached the doors leading to the gardens that he truly began to worry.

Stepping outside, he was relieved to see her vague form in the fog. Using his greater leg length, he kept up with the distressed woman. When she finally collapsed beside the lake, he stayed back and watched while she hurried to scribble in what appeared to be a journal. It wasn’t long before he realized that she trembled from the cold.

He knelt and wrapped the blanket around her shoulders. “Why did you run, Hermione?” he murmured in her ear.

“I dreamt she was here.” She let the book slip from her lap and he was able to make out the words ‘I’d kill her first’ scribbled on the page. “She made it passed everyone and was going to take Arianna away. Why haven’t they caught her yet?”

“It takes time,” he tried to reassure her. “Let’s return inside, you’re not dressed to be out here.” He scooped her up and began the return journey.

“Professor,” she said softly.

“Severus,” he chastised.

“What?”

“My name is Severus.” With her head tucked under his chin, he could smell the apple scent of her shampoo.

“Severus,” she murmured trying out the word. “Why did you follow me?”

He was stunned by the question and unable to form a reply before they were met at the door by Draco and the child. The dark haired girl’s face was tear stained and she was clinging to him. Severus gently set her on her feet before turning troubled eyes to them.

“What is wrong, Draco?” he asked softly.

“She wants Harry. She had a nightmare and I’ve barely been able to get her to stop crying.” He ran a perfectly manicured hand through his messy blonde hair.

“Maybe some hot chocolate will help,” said Hermione with a meaningful look at Severus.

“I must speak with Mother but I will return in a few moments,” said Severus in understanding, “I will meet you in the kitchens.”

“Mimsy, why don’t you run ahead and make four cups of hot chocolate,” said Hermione gently.

Draco carried Titania as he followed Hermione down the hallway. As they made their way, Titania squeezed her eyes shut and buried her face in Draco’s neck. Hermione was impressed as he simply rubbed her back and murmured softly to her. When they reached the kitchen, they found it filled with warm light and two house elves waited for them while Mimsy prepared their hot chocolate.

“You’re very good with her,” commented Hermione. One of the two house elves seated them at the table while the second approached with baked goods.

“I used to help Pansy’s mother with Violet,” he admitted somewhat sheepishly. “I love kids.”

“It’s obvious when I see you with her,” smiled Hermione.

Draco shifted nervously in his seat before changing the subject, “What spell was that you used tonight? I’ve never seen that one before.”

“I created it,” sighed Hermione. “It was stronger than I expected but I still had to double cast it against that surge.”

“I’ve never seen anyone move after a surge like that,” Draco said before picking up a cookie and nibbling on it. “I was going to wait until we went back to Hogwarts but I think I’m going to start training him to control it tomorrow evening.”

“That would probably be a good idea,” admitted Hermione.

Draco watched in silence as she pulled the blanket tighter around her shoulders, “So, what were you doing outside with Uncle Severus? Without shoes I might add.”

“It was nothing.” She looked at Titania rather than Draco.

“You’re not very good at lying,” said Draco patiently.

“You’d be surprised, Draco,” said Severus as he entered. “Excuse me while I speak with Mimsy.”

Draco kept Titania busy with simple slight of hand tricks while Severus added three drops of dreamless sleep potion to her hot chocolate. To everyone’s great surprise, the dreadful potions master performed his own slight of hand. With onyx eyes shinning, he pulled a chocolate frog from Draco’s ear, unwrapped it, and presented it to Titania. With their hot chocolate in hand, they sat in companionable silence and nibbled on the chocolate chip cookies.

Draco watched with great amusement as Hermione and Severus covertly watched one another. As one would look up, the other would look away until their eyes would meet and both would focus elsewhere. It was a game he knew well, and drove him absolutely mad. A year of watching his two best friends play it had even driven him into action and it took the surly potions master several hours to figure out how to make the door to the closet reappear.

His attention was pulled away from the two by Titania rubbing her eyes. He was not surprised when she turned to him and lifted her arms in a silent request. A quick glance insured that her hot chocolate was gone before he effortlessly lifted her. She instantly curled into his chest and let her eyes begin to drift closed.

“I’ll take her back to bed and try to get some sleep. By the way, Uncle Severus, better make a move sooner than Blaise cause I won’t wait as long and you know I never use the same trick twice. Good Night Hermione.”

~*~

Hermione Granger and Minerva McGonagall apparated to the Ministry of Magic at precisely 9 a.m. The official waiting for them was a small mousy woman with sleek brown hair and a pointed nose. She sniffed disapprovingly when Hermione and Professor McGonagall turned to her.

“I thought you were Muggle-born,” she began obnoxiously.

“Not everything is as it seems,” responded Hermione with a smug sneer. “My grandmother was Lillianna Michelle Black.”

The Mousy woman paled but didn’t comment, “Where is it we’ll be apparating to?”

“Rose Haven Manor,” replied Hermione innocently, “We have a Ministry approved portkey because I’m fairly sure that you’ve never entered Rose Haven.”

“Since when has Rose Haven been inhabited?” snarked the woman.

“Since I received my Inheritance.” Hermione was becoming frustrated by the woman that reminded her so much of Peter Pettigrew.

“Madam, we have a very busy schedule today,” said Minerva diplomatically, “If we could move along, Miss Granger has several very important guests to return to and must also prepare to leave for school in the morning.”

Hermione barely suppressed a grin at the Slytherin-esque tactics of her Head of House. “What sort of guests?”

“My friends from school, I’m sure Harry and Draco can keep them busy until we are finished,” sighed Hermione with a small smile.

“Harry? Draco?” stammered the woman. There was only one Draco that she knew currently attended Hogwarts.

“Oh, yes, my best friends, Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy.”

The official paled drastically, “Potter… Malfoy…”

“Oh, yes. Harry and I have been friends since first year and Draco and I became friends a while back,” Hermione rattled on. “Draco also wants to meet you so he knows which Ministry Official was involved.”

“Please, let’s finish this,” insisted the Official, “as you said, you have a lot to do today.”

Hermione smiled innocently as the woman took placed her hand on the portkey and it activated. They landed at the apparition point within the hedge maze moments later, the mousy official falling to her knees gracelessly. Hermione waited for her to right herself before leading the way from the maze.

“Shall we start in the house or would you like to see the grounds?” asked Hermione.

“I believe that the house would be a safe place to begin,” answered the woman.

“That’s fine, it appears the Weasley’s have begun a Quidditch game.” Hermione grinned.

“The Weasley’s are here as well!” responded the woman incredulously.

“Ronald and I have been best friends since first year as well,” answered Hermione. “Shall we begin with Arianna’s room?”

Hermione didn’t give her time to gape at the beauty of the marble entrance hall with its fountain depicting a child opening its arms welcomingly nor did she stop to explain the many portraits. She snickered silently to herself as they entered the library with its black marble floor and ceiling that extended up all five stories to the stained glass dome. Once they traveled to the second floor they found Madam Snape engrossed in an ancient text.

“Oh, Hermione, you’re back,” smiled Serenity looking up from her book, “Severus left some books on your desk. He said it was a bit of light reading for your apprenticeship.”

“Thank you,” replied Hermione.

“Madam Snape is your guest as well?” questioned the woman.

“Yes, she was assisting Molly Weasley in treating my sister and helping to introduce me to the intricacies of Pureblood politics,” answered Hermione honestly.

“I see. Where are we going?” she asked.

“Arianna’s apartment,” replied Hermione before explaining. “The top four floors of Rose Haven are broken into six apartments per floor. Rose Haven is unique in that it chooses the apartments for you. Arianna is currently sharing an apartment with Violet Parkinson.” Hermione approached a set of double door and knocked stoutly.

A very excited house elf answered the door, “Yes Miss Hermione.”

“Mopsy, is Arianna awake yet?” asked Hermione.

“Yes, Miss, Miss Arianna is just finishing her breakfast. She was disappointed that yous was not joining her this morning.”

“I know, Mopsy, but I had business.”

“Hermione! There you are. Madam Snape said you were headed this way.” The Official turned and paled as her eyes fixed on the tell tale Malfoy blonde hair. “Ah, you must be the official from the Ministry. Draco Malfoy.” He offered his hand with a debonair smile.

“Kira Cherie,” replied the official faintly as she shook his hand.

“If you don’t mind, Hermione, I’ll join you,” said Draco falling in beside Hermione as they made their way into Arianna and Violet’s common room.

“Hermione, are you finished already?” asked Arianna. She stood from the table and joined the quickly growing group. “Oh, hello, I’m Arianna Granger. Good Morning Professor, Draco. Oh, Draco, you won’t believe what I’ve found. Look!” she moved to a curtain on the fare side of the room and pulled a cord to reveal a family tree tapestry. “Look, you’re on here too.”

Draco grinned at the way that information made the official squirm, “We are cousins, Arianna.”

“Please,” stammered the Official, “Let’s get this over with. I just need to see her room then I’ll be leaving.”

“This way,” said Arianna before leading the official away.

“What have you done?” snickered Draco, “and are you sure you weren’t supposed to be in Slytherin?”

“I was having fun, ask Harry and Ron about my wrath, and I could have been a Ravenclaw too.”
~*~

It was late in the morning when Harry woke. After his shower, he wandered from the bedroom and he was amazed to find Draco and the girl sleeping on the couch. Draco lay on his back, one arm under his head and the other curled around the little girl. The child lay on his chest, her thumb stuck in her mouth and the other around a small Care Bear.

“Master Harry,” said small House Elf, “would Master Harry be hungry? I’s is helping now that little one Titania be staying.”

“Yes, Mimsy, I am hungry. Food would be good, thank you.”

“Master Remus wished to know when Master Harry was awake. Would Master Harry be ready to see Master Remus?” inquired the elf.

“Yes, I would like to see him,” said Harry eagerly. A small tug on his hand brought his attention to the recently awakened child, “Maybe a snack for her too.”

“Would you like me to take her somewhere else?” Harry spun to see Draco sitting up and wide awake.

“No, I’d like to get to know her,” answered Harry softly.

“How are you feeling?”

Harry stretched a little and winced when the skin across his back pulled, “A little tired.” He blushed when he realized that he hadn’t put a shirt on.

“You’re not supposed to do any magic until tomorrow so if you need anything just ask okay.” Draco stood and stretched allowing a strip of pale stomach to show. “You should also go see the others soon. You really scared us, Harry. I wasn’t sure what I was going find after your magic surged. We’ve only spoken a little bit about it but Hermione had to double cast her shielding charm just to protect her group. I think we should start working on your control.”

Harry hung his head letting his eyes focus on his bare feet, “I know,” he replied as tears began to leak from his eyes.

His tears started out slow, escaping one by one. The great guilt that always accompanied him seemed to rest more heavily on his shoulders and the tears fell faster. Great drops of crystalline sadness rolled down his cheeks. With his long arms wrapped across his chest, he sank to his knees. Pained sobs seemed to stick in his throat.

Draco heard the door open behind him but paid no attention to the person that entered. He watched, transfixed, as Titania stepped close to Harry. Her teddy bear forgotten on the floor, her small hands reached out to grip his face in a gentle hold causing their green eyes to meet like reflections in a strange mirror. Tiny fingers carefully wiped away the seemingly endless tears before he found himself in the embrace of one so innocent.

“Amazing,” someone murmured from behind Draco. “I never thought I be able to witness…”

Draco turned to the group standing in the door. Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Remus Lupin, Serenity Snape, and Tonks waited patiently to be acknowledged before entering more fully.

“Please, come in,” said Draco standing and motioning the small group over to the table. “Harry and Titania were just about to eat.”

“We won’t take much of your time,” said Dumbledore eyeing the child, “We simply wish to speak to Harry about the child.”

“What will happen to her now, Professor?” asked Draco giving Harry time to pull himself together more completely.

“That depends on what Harry wants,” explained Professor McGonagall, “Given her unusual name; we were easily able to find her family. The entire clan lived in Godrics Hollow. She has, at this point, been listed as deceased by the Muggle Authorities.”

“Where will she go?” asked Harry softly.

“That’s why we’re here Harry,” replied Remus, “Hermione and I were both under the impression that you would be unwilling to give her up to an orphanage.”

“You’re right but I still have another year of school to complete. She can not be left alone all day while I attend classes.”

“That’s where I would come in,” Serenity Snape picked up the forgotten teddy bear and offered it to Titania, “I’ll be at the school to provide counseling to the students so she can stay with me. Professor Dumbledore has also offered to have Dobby assist me.”

Draco and Harry watched as Mimsy’s ears drooped and she hung her small head “Dobby is very good with children, Harry,” Draco said with a small smile, “but I think Mimsy has been doing a wonderful job. If Hermione will allow her to, I’d like her to go with us to Hogwarts and continue.”

“Will we be staying in Angel Tower?” Harry asked.

“Yes, but there will be a few more additions.” Professor Dumbledore’s eyes twinkled brightly making Harry nervous, “It has been common practice, in previous years, for apprentices to receive separate housing from the other students. It seems that we have more apprentices this year than in previous years so we are housing all of you in Angel Tower. Pansy and Blaise will be joining you there along with four other students.” He turned to Draco sadly, “I have also been informed that you and Miss Granger have both turned down the Head Boy and Head girl positions. Miss Granger has suggested a different Head Boy and believed that you had another option for Head Girl.”

“Pansy would be the best choice, Sir,” admitted Draco.

“Very well, I will inform Mr. Weasley and Miss Parkinson of their new positions,” sighed Dumbledore with a twinkle.

“Does that mean she’s staying with me?” asked Harry.

“Yes, Harry, it does.”

“We need to go shopping then,” said Harry thoughtfully, “She’s going to need clothes, toys, and books. Is there any way that we can go to Diagon Alley and Muggle London?”

“That’s part of the reason why I’m here,” chirped Tonks, “Hermione already anticipated this.”

“When are we leaving?” asked Harry excitedly, “I’ll be ready in a few minutes.”

“Oh, no you don’t,” smirked Draco, “Hermione made me promise to make sure you eat and you will sit and eat. I’m not going to get myself hexed because I didn’t do what she told me to.”

“Alright,” pouted Harry, “I’ll eat first.” Harry knelt down in front of Titania, “You’re going to live with me now. My name is Harry.” Titania smiled shyly and took his hand.

“Well, I see you are in good hands,” smiled Remus, “I’m going to inform everyone to dress as Muggles. We’ll leave in two hours, which should give us enough time to get ready.”

~*~

Severus Snape sat in the library deep in thought. A book on ancient artifacts lay forgotten in his lap. His mind seemed to be stuck in a loop, one that continuously replayed the early morning conversation with his mother.

Severus rapped gently on the door to his mother’s common room. He felt like a small child seeking refuge in his mother’s arms. With her, in the grey hours of dawn, he could be that child. He wasn’t a monster here, not a Professor, or a Potions Master he could just be Severus. This was their time, those early minutes caught between night and day, and it had been their time for as long as he could remember.

The door opened to reveal his mother, her hair down and wet. The door opened wide enough to admit him and he made his way to the couch. They didn’t need words, just a mother’s instinct and son’s need. There was no one here to hide from and the painstakingly created mask could be dropped. He didn’t fight it as she wrapped her arms around him and simply held him until he was ready to speak.

“It’s wrong.” He let himself be held and sighed, “I’m too old, and she’s too young. I could never betray Albus in that way.”

“It’s the Wizarding World, Dear,” she murmured, “Age has little to do with anything. Really, how much of an age gap do you think there is between Albus and Minnie?”

“But she was his student!”

“Yes, and they fell in love during her seventh year. They kept it hidden for so long because of the war against Gindelwald that it became habit and they’ve never shared it with anyone that wasn’t at the ceremony.”

“Thank you,” he whispered. He could see the sun breaking the horizon and knew that their time was nearly up.

“Severus, figure out how you feel and what you really want. Don’t hurt her. The rules in this are very serious and if you pursue her understand that they will make you marry her,” warned Serenity. “Talk to Albus and Minerva, they may be able to help you more than I can.” She kissed his head, brushed his hair back, and gracefully stood. “You’d better get going; Molly will be out of the shower soon.”

~*~

Professor Severus Snape was brought back to the library at Rose Haven by the sound of heals clicking on the marble. When he looked up, he found Hermione standing before him.

“Pr- Severus, Remus, Tonks, and Madam Snape are taking a group to London. A large group of us will be staying to map the house and property. I was wondering if you would be staying.” Hermione tried to hide her nervousness behind the façade of the black and emerald dress she wore.

“I will be staying, I have no need to make the trip to London,” replied Snape evenly.

Hermione took a deep breath to prepare herself. “Would you assist me in mapping the ground level?”

“Do you have the spell?” he inquired.

She handed him a piece of parchment, “Remus gave it to me this morning. I’ve copied it and given the copies to the other teams. The spell requires two people.”

“I’m sure that I can tear myself from this book long enough to assist you. Who will be flying the grounds? Potter will not be able until tomorrow at the earliest and you have a train to catch.”

“Bill and Charlie have already agreed to it,” answered Hermione as she tried not to stare at him.

Snape looked thoughtful though he tried to keep his gaze somewhere other than on her, “When will we begin?”

“I’ve already charmed the quill and left it on the parchment beside the ink we made. Once the group leaves to go shopping, we’ll begin. They should be leaving within the hour.”

“Very well, alert me when you are ready to proceed.”

“Yes, sir.”

~*~

“What are you doing Harry?” asked Draco.

Harry jumped slightly before turning toward the blonde, “I was just moving the last of my stuff out of my old back pack and into the one ‘Mione gave me.”

“I noticed last year that you always had that bag with you,” commented Draco as he tied his Muggle trainers.

“After fifth year I got smart and started carrying certain things with me all the time. You can only face your worst enemy so many times unprepared before your luck runs out. Unfortunately, my battle got others hurt.”

“I understand, it only makes sense to be prepared, especially with your knack for drawing trouble,” smirked Draco. “Does this look okay?”

Harry turned to find Draco wearing a pair of jean shorts and black button down with an emerald dragon stretched across is. The top two buttons of the shirt were open revealing an almost feminine chain bearing the Malfoy crest. His long platinum hair was pulled back in a thick plait down his back.

“For a Pureblood, you sure know your Muggle clothes,” smirked Harry.

Draco blushed a deep red, “Blaise and I snuck into Muggle London several times. Before we had other options, we had planned on running away and living as Muggles till the war was over.”

“I’m glad you didn’t join the other side,” Harry said. His eyes dropped to the ground, as if afraid to see the other boys face. “I was always afraid that I would have to stand across the battle field and kill you. The worst part is knowing that there will be people that we know on the other side of that field and I will have to kill them or they will kill me.”

Draco was surprised by Harry’s confession but a knock on the door prevented him from responding. When he opened the door he found Arianna and Violet with an emerald sundress in hand.

“Come in,” said Draco holding the door open further.

“We brought a dress for Titania,” said Violet with a smile, “Pansy transfigured it from one of my shirts.”

“Titania,” called Harry softly.

Honey curls bounced as she looked up from her coloring page. At the sight of the two girls and the dress, she stood up and shyly approached them. Once she was within reach of them, her tiny hands found Harry and Draco.

“Let’s get this dress on so we can go shopping,” said Harry taking the dress Arianna offered.

They all waited while Harry helped her change from pajamas into the dress. Once that was finished, Arianna smiled at Titania and brought something furry from behind her back. After a moment of confusion, Draco realized it was a light brown teddy bear back pack.

“Hermione transfigured one of the bottomless bags for her,” explained Arianna.

Titania examined the bag closely before looking up at Arianna with shining eyes. To everyone’s surprise, she let go of Harry and Draco long enough to give the older girl a quick hug before clinging to Harry again. Harry chuckled softly but let her cling to his hand.

“Are we ready to go then?” asked Harry slipping his bag onto his back. He noticed that everyone in the room had similar bags; Titania’s being the only one distinguishable from the rest.

Draco smiled as Harry picked up Titania, “It’s been a while since I visited Muggle London.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll be seeing a lot of it,” complained Arianna, “Hermione gave me a list of things to get.”

Draco led the way out the door and right into Remus Lupin who grinned. “I was just coming to get you. Everyone else is waiting in the entrance.”

“We just finished getting ready,” explained Harry.

Remus nodded and turned to lead the way downstairs. A companionable silence fell over the group as they made their way towards the rest of their group. When they finally joined and assembled in front of the Floo everyone was decidedly ready to leave. Remus, Tonks, and Serenity Snape went first followed by Arianna, Violet, Pansy and Blaise.

“Do you want to take her by yourself?” asked Draco upon seeing Harry’s worried look. “It wouldn’t be a problem to go together.”

“I was just thinking about my first experience with the Floo,” said Harry. At Draco’s raised eyebrow he continued, “I ended up in Knockturn alley alone with no idea where I was.”

“That must have been second year,” smirked Draco, “I remember you were covered in soot. Come on everyone is waiting.” Draco led the dark haired hero into the fire and sent them swirling towards their destination.

In all of the rush to get out, no one thought about the last twenty four hours Titania had experienced or how she would react to them walking into the fire, even if it was green. When they stepped from the fire she had a death grip on Harry’s neck. Her frightened whimpers filled his ears and it hit him.

“I didn’t think about it,” worried Harry as he tried to comfort her. “Shh… it’s okay. It’s alright, Titania, look. It’s alright sweetheart it didn’t hurt us.”

Draco ran a comforting hand up and down her back while Harry continued to talk to her. Twenty minutes later, they were finally able to get her to open her eyes and look around. A few minutes later, with her tears cleared away, they were on their way to Gringotts.

“Maybe we should apparate on the way home,” suggested Remus.

“Yeah, at least until she understands the Floo a little bit,” replied Harry sheepishly. He could feel tiny fingers playing in his messy hair as he spoke and he realized that she was falling asleep. “I think she tired herself out.”

“It’s probably for the best,” said Draco, “I don’t know about anyone else but when I was little the Goblin carts scared me. They only have two speeds, stopped and fast.”

“I remember,” complained Blaise, “You didn’t want to be the only one scared so you convinced me that the Goblins were going to eat me.”

“Griphook took great pleasure in our visit that day,” laughed Pansy, “Our poor mothers were so embarrassed. I remember you bawling and begging your mother to not let them eat you while Draco was bawling and begging to be left in the lobby.”

“Don’t forget your part in the whole day, Pansy,” smirked Blaise, “You were crying about the spiders in the tunnels.”

Harry couldn’t help but laugh at the shudder that went down her back at the mention of spiders, “I’m sorry to laugh, Pansy. Just so you know Ron is terrified of Spiders. I suggest you avoid the Forbidden forest at all cost too. There’s a colony of Acromantula living in there.”

“Do I want to know how you know that?” asked Remus.

“Probably not,” answered Harry flippantly.

“Why don’t you tell me anyway,” suggested Remus.

“It was in second year; Ron and I were trying to figure out what was petrifying students. When I talked to the journal it revealed that Hagrid was expelled because they thought that his pet, Aragog, was the creature. That was right after it killed Myrtle.”

“You mean Moaning Myrtle?” asked Pansy suddenly.

“Yeah, she was killed by the basilisk when Tom Riddle set it loose on the school. Anyway, we went to ask Hagrid about it right after Hermione was petrified. They were arresting Hagrid but he managed to tell us that the answer was in the forest. Aragog didn’t help much and wanted to eat us afterwards but Ron’s dad’s car saved us.”

Remus studied Harry carefully for a moment before commenting, “Not even the Marauders were brave enough to enter the forest, Harry.”

“I think you’ve been with the Gryffindor’s too long,” proclaimed Draco, “The hat wanted to put you in Slytherin for good reason. You need a good dose of self preservation.”

Pansy seemed a bit calmer about the whole situation, “We’ve heard about your exploits in Slytherin, Harry, but we just believed them to be rumors until forth year. Of course, we heard all about Voldemort from our parents.”

Harry blinked at her with wide startled eyes, “You said it without flinching or using stupid fear induced catch names!”

“Why not?” asked Draco, “Why give him so much power that we cannot even say his name.”

“I’m not arguing I was just surprised. I hate how everyone skirts around the real problem,” responded Harry. Titania sighed in her sleep causing Harry to check on her, “Shh, I don’t want to wake her till we start shopping.”

Several nods went through the groups as they approached the imposing Wizarding bank. As they made their way up the steps, Tonks managed to trip over her own feet but Remus caught her before she could hit the ground. Harry kept an eye on Griphook as they approached, and he was surprised to see the glint in his beady eyes. He also kept an eye on Draco as they approached the cart to take them into the bowls of Gringotts. He could watch the mask slide into place piece by piece. Everyone produced their keys and the blonde stiffly followed to board the cart. Harry gently steered him to the very last pair of seats.

Harry leaned over and whispered, “Are you okay?”

“What do you think, Potter?” responded Draco tightly.

“Hey, I wouldn’t let anything happen to you,” explained Harry with an indulgent smile.

“Right, Potter. Please, just let me hurl in peace.”

Harry’s response was cut off by the cart taking off at a breakneck speed. All he could do was hold Titania tightly and watch the blonde squeeze his eyes shut. When they stopped at the vaults belonging to Pansy and Blaise, the young aristocrat was looking decidedly green.

“You should have said it was more than fear,” chastised Remus gently, “Lean forward, head against your knees, it will help regain your equilibrium.”

Harry shifted Titania so he could rub Draco’s back until he sat up again. Moments later Blaise and Pansy returned to the cart. They braced themselves as they plummeted deeper into the cavernous depths of Gringotts.

The next stop pulled Harry, Draco, and Serenity out of their seats. When Draco stood there was barely any hind of the motion sickness.

“Draco, can you hold Titania for a minute?” asked Harry as Griphook opened his vault.

Harry and Draco flawlessly shifted Titania into the blonde’s arms. When they were finished, Harry quickly retrieved enough money for their trip. Once he was finished, he gently took Titania so Draco could enter his vault.

“I’m somewhat surprised that I was able to do that,” sighed Draco returning to the cart,” I expected her to cut me off from everything.”

“If I understood Snape correctly, she can’t,” said Remus, “unless she can convince your father to disown you she can’t deny you access to your inheritance.”

“The entire fortune actually,” said Serenity taking her seat. “She’s only entitled to enough to live on. The same would go for Blaise and his mother.”

“What about Violet and Me?” asked Pansy.

“Your mother was smart about it,” explained Serenity. “By having two children, so far apart, she has gained control of the larger portion of the fortune.”

“What’s the difference?” asked Harry.

“Most Pureblood families only have one child,” began Remus, “only one heir means less squabbling over the inheritance.”

Harry looked at him quizzically, “Less Squabbling?”

“There’s always someone willing to kill everyone ahead of them in the line,” said Draco before bracing himself for the plummet to the last vault. When they finally stopped, he left his head on his knees.

“Okay, so there’s less squabbling what else?” asked Harry.

“One of us must keep our family name or the Parkinson name will die with our marriage,” explained Pansy. “Blaise doesn’t have to worry because she would take his name.”

“You didn’t mention Draco in that,” said Harry rubbing said blonde’s back.

“I’m the last of the line and plan on keeping it that way. I’ve know I was gay since second year.” With his head still on his knees, it was muffled but only Harry seemed to hear the last part, “Besides, I’ll never be able to have sex with a woman again.”

~*~

Hermione stood with her back in the northern most corner of the Ball Room. In the opposite corner Severus Snape stood with his wand raised in preparation. With a quick glance around the room, she signaled to begin the spell. She listened intently as his hypnotic voice laid the base for the complex spell. She waited patiently for her cue to begin the top layer of the spell, the layer that would allow the enchanted quill to create the map. They both continued the spell until they felt their magic reach out and connect. Once their magic connected, Hermione gave it one final shove to connect it to the other rooms they’d completed.

“How many is that?” asked Hermione dropping into a chair.

“Seventeen,” he replied.

“Three rooms left. I’m glad that Professor McGonagall and Mrs. Weasley volunteered to map the dungeon, this is draining.”

“I…” Hermione watched him stiffen and his face became an emotionless mask.

“You’ve been summoned,” Hermione said without disgust, pity, or fear.

“I must go,” Snape said before taking the heal of his shoe in his hand. Hermione watched as he twisted it and removed two shrunken objects.

“Is there anything you need me to do?”

“Tell Minerva and Molly that I was summoned, inform Molly that He is angry and ask her to have the potions ready.”

She waited until he was finished returning the items to their original size before continuing, “Be careful, Severus.”

Hermione followed Severus out to the apparition point. Without another word, Severus wrapped his robe around his lithe form and dropped his mask into place before apparating away.

Once he was gone, Hermione hurried back inside to find Professor McGonagall. She went straight to the sub-level and it was there that she found the two women in the back of the passage behind the stairs.

“Professor McGonagall?” inquired Hermione.

“Hermione, we’ve found a passage.”

“That’s nice Professor,” replied Hermione impatiently. “Professor Snape was summoned and just apparated away. Mrs. Weasley, he said to tell you that He’s angry and to have the potions ready.”

“How long ago did he leave?” asked Molly.

“Almost ten minutes ago,” Hermione answered, “we were almost finished with the first floor.”

“I’ll help you finish the map,” said Minerva,” Molly do what you must.” She let the way upstairs. They had just entered the entrance hall when she stopped.

“What is it Minerva?” asked Molly.

“The fountain wasn’t like this before,” replied the startled Professor.

“Hermione stepped around the older women and her breath caught. The child figure in the fountain held within its small hands a large orb of fire.

“What does it mean?” Hermione asked in awe.

“Someone important to you has gone into danger. The flame will continue to burn until he returns,” said a voice from the other side of the fountain. “My name is Rayhna and I’m one of the permanent residents of Rose Haven. You must be the new Lady of the house. Have you met any of the others?”

“Yes, Titania,” Hermione sighed.

“I’m sorry. Titania has been here for a very long time. She is one of the four that will be allowed to go to rest but she has been here since her birth. She has become very angry but the secret that keeps her here has not been discovered.”

~*~

Severus Snape pushed all thoughts of what he knew into a series of boxes in his mind. As soon as each box was filled, he carefully hid them within his memory of healing potions, each recipe the key to unlocking a box.

Severus dropped to his knees before the Dark Lord, “My Lord.” He couldn’t help but notice that he had two companions rather than the usual one.

“Crucio!” Severus forced himself to relax as much as he could. He focused his mind through the pain until he could push most of it into the flame. Under the Cruciatus curse time seemed to stop and he had no idea how he ended up on his hands and knees when it finally ended.

“Tell me, Severus, where is Draco Malfoy?” questioned Voldemort.

“Lucius’ plan failed. Draco has switched sides. When Potter found him he was broken. She was supposed to send him to me to seek safety! There was very little left of the son you knew,” answered Snape.

“Explain yourself,” demanded a very haggard Lucius.

“Maybe you should ask your wife what she did to him to make him unable to face a simple boggart.”

“Crucio,” hissed Voldemort sending him back into an ocean of pain.

~*~

Hermione sat on the floor of Harry and Draco’s common room. Twenty small walkie talkies lay on the floor in front of her.

“Any sign of him yet, ‘Mione?” asked Harry.

“No, Pansy’s keeping watch until ten, Blaise till eleven, and Neville till twelve,” she replied before sealing the charm she was placing on the radio.

“I’ll keep watch until one if Draco doesn’t mind staying here with Titania.”

“She’ll be asleep by then so it shouldn’t be a problem,” said Draco as he entered from Titania’s bedroom. “What are you working on?”

Hermione tossed a radio to each of them. “I found a spell that will make them work by magic. They’ll never need charging or batteries. They also have less distance restrictions. I think they’ll be very helpful at Hogwarts.” She reached into a bag and removed a plastic package with an ear bud and mic inside. “With these we’ll be in contact all the time with no one knowing.”

“Who get them?” Harry asked while examining his radio.

“That’s up to you Harry,” she replied distractedly.

A choked laugh pulled their attention to Draco. “Voldemort has an inner circle, why shouldn’t you. Mother and Father always boasted about being in Voldemort’s inner circle.”

Harry looked thoughtful for a moment before meeting dusty blue eyes, “Yes, but whereas he has minions that have to be kept inline I have friends that I can depend on. Besides, these aren’t nearly as painful as a mark burned into your skin.”

“I need to know who to set them to, they’ll be voice activated and the channel will set by the name you say. You’ll also be able to talk to the whole group,” Hermione explained.

“We’ll need four for the professors and Mrs. Snape, nine for us, and Arianna and Violet should complete it. Maybe we should have some extras just in case,” decided Harry.

“I think Professor McGonagall should be added to that list, Harry,” said Hermione. “I’ve also brought her in on the DA.”

“That’s fine,” said Harry reluctantly.

“Good. Here, Harry, “Hermione said before handing him an ear bud. “This knob turns your radio on and controls the volume. The blue button signals for everyone’s attention and the red one activates a tracking charm and emergency signal.” She put one in Draco’s hand and showed him how to put the ear bud in his ear.”

“Won’t people notice them, ‘Mione?” worried Harry.

“No, just like your bags there is a notice-me-not charm on them. The ear bud and mic will go invisible when you put it on,” Hermione replied.

“About the bags, Hermione, will ink or paint mess with the spells?”

“No, I figured you’d want to change it, that’s why I made them such a neutral color. I’ve also added a charm to hold the ink so you won’t have to reapply it all the time.”

Titania wandered out of her room with her bag in one had and pajamas in the other. She walked up and laid her head on Harry’s leg.

“Hi there, Sweet Heart,” said Harry, “Are you getting sleepy?”

She nodded her head before setting her bag down and wrestling out a book the size of ‘Hogwarts a History’. Once it was pulled free of the bag, Hermione examined the cover.

“Wow, that is an excellent book,” grinned Hermione.

“She seemed to know it.” Draco mentioned casually, “She was very specific in which book she wanted and opened it right up to a specific story.”

Titania, who had been listening carefully, sat down in front of Hermione and opened the book. She flipped through the pages with silent confidence until she found a picture of a little girl and a phoenix. Draco watched as Hermione skimmed the first page of the story.

“Are you sure you don’t mind staying with her right now?” asked Draco for the hundredth time.

“It’s not a problem Draco. We’ll probably go explore her new room before bed and then read a story.” Hermione tried to reassure the blonde.

“Thanks ‘Mione,” sighed Harry, “I really feel like I need to learn this as fast as possible.”

“I understand and agree,” she reminded, “Now, go get to work. Titania and I will be fine. If we need anything Mimsy will help us.”

Harry nodded and gave Titania a quick hug before nervously following Draco into their now shared bedroom. When they got there, he was surprised to find all of the lights extinguished except a single candle.

“Are you ready, Harry?” asked Draco calmly.

“I guess.”

“Okay, sit down and get comfortable on one side of the candle.” He waited while the other man found a comfortable position before continuing, “I want you to focus on the flame and the sound of my voice. Watch the candle; let it fill your vision. Within the flame is an endless space to put whatever you wish. Push the things that fill your mind there, those things that become too much; memories, emotions, pain, put them all in there and let the flame hold them.”

Harry focused on the flame and tried to do as he was told. His mind seemed to fight at first but once he started it seemed to get easier.

“Good job, Harry,” said Draco soothingly, “That was better than I did on my first try. Now, take out one of the memories. I want you to examine it, hold it out and figure out why your mind can’t file it away.”

Harry gingerly reached a mental hand into the flame and plucked out a memory. The first memory he pulled free was of the summer and he floundered. “I can’t do this, Draco.” His voice was hoarse, as though he’d been screaming.

“Can’t, won’t, or need help?” asked Draco softly.

“I don’t want to relive this,” whined Harry, “I can’t… I can’t do this alone.”

Draco closed his eyes and took a deep breath, he knew that this would be difficult but steeled himself to his task, “I’ll help you, but I’ll need you to help me later. We know each other’s secrets so we can do this. Look into the memory, Harry, peer into like a pensieve. Tell me what you see.”

Harry hesitated. He didn’t want to relive the memories, “I don’t know.”

“It’s just a memory, it can’t hurt you anymore.”

Harry gave in and peered into the memory, “I’m laying in my bed at the Dursley’s. Its night and I can hear my Aunt screaming and sobbing through the walls. There’s nothing I can do because I’m locked in and my wand is locked in the cupboard under the stairs.” Tears were rolling down his cheeks unchecked in the darkness.

“What is it about this memory that has made it stuck? Something is bothering you and this memory is a reminder of it.”

“I was worried about her. I couldn’t get to her and I didn’t know what was happening,” sighed Harry.

“Have you been told where your Aunt is now?” asked Draco suddenly.

“No, I keep meaning to ask Dumbledore but he hasn’t been around much.” Harry could hear the scratch of a quill on parchment. “What are you doing?”

“Writing it down so that we don’t forget,” explained Draco.

~*~

Snape stayed on the floor where they left him and listened to the hushed conversation that took place. His body was still spasming from the multiple rounds of Cruciatus that he received. Narcissa, despite her crimes was still Voldemort’s favorite was in far better shape and participating in the plans.

“She has refused us once again, teach her a lesson. If Madam Patil will not join us, she will not join anyone.” Red eyes flashed in the minimal light of the chamber and Snape was reminded of the first reign. “Bring her daughters; they will make their choice as well.”

Sickness burned in his stomach as he realized what would happen to his students when they refused. They would refuse, their names had been among the first to sign the DA’s contract. The touch of a cool cloth against his forehead startled him into glancing up. The only ones left in the chamber were Mrs. Zabini and Mrs. Parkinson.

“You can’t apparate in this state,” stated Maria softly.

“I have before and can now,” grumped Snape.

“We have an offer for you,” said Willow softly, “Let’s go somewhere more private.”

~*~

Harry looked around the room in surprise. Hermione and Pansy had called a meeting in the living room next to the entrance hall and they were the last to arrive.

“Is everyone here?” asked Hermione looking up.

“It looks like it,” said Minerva McGonagall, “What is this about.”
“We have some things that must be worked out before we return to school tomorrow, Professor. There is a lot a politics between the students that doesn’t involve the Professors,” she explained, “we need to make some decisions on how to approach this year.”

“First and foremost is safety for the three of you,” said Hermione. “Pansy and I spoke about this a bit last year; there will be some students who won’t agree with your change of sides.”

“Our biggest worry will be Knott,” said Draco. “I’m pretty sure he’s had his mark since fifth year. He’s dead set on following Voldemort.”

“This was my solution,” said Hermione handing out the walkie talkies. “We’ll be in contact all the time. If anyone needs help we’ll all know and be able to help. They’re charmed to work in the Wizarding World and I’ve layered several concealment charms on them. The blue button signals for everyone’s attention while the red button activates an emergency signal and tracking charm.”

“Very ingenious, Hermione,” said Minerva examining hers.

“I think we should still be quiet about the switch,” warned Draco. “We’ll quietly stand by you, Harry, but we can’t alienate our housemates because there are others who want an escape.”

“We’ve already been branded traitors by now, Draco,” added Blaise, “There were Death Eaters that escaped Godrics Hollow. We were all pretty visible, especially you and Pansy.”

“This really doesn’t change much,” said Pansy, “You mentioned us staying in a tower Hermione. That will provide us with a lot more safety. The real danger lies within our house.”

“That brings up our next topic,” said Hermione while checking her dictaquill. “The excuse that we’ve been given for Angel Tower is that it’s for apprentices. For the sake of prying eyes, we’re really going to do apprenticeships.”

Professor McGonagall revealed a pile of scrolls. “Some of you have been offered some specific apprenticeships and others have some decisions to make. The apprenticeships previously offered are; Neville Herbology, Pansy Ancient Runes, Ron Quidditch/flying, and Blaise Charms. Draco, you never made a request with any of the Professors.”

“I never expected to go back,” answered Draco honestly. “I would like to apprentice with Madam Pomfrey if that is acceptable.”

She handed over a scroll with a strict face, “I fear there will be many missing students this year. You will have a companion, Susan Bones will also be apprenticing with Poppy.”

“Professor, what about us?” asked Ginny, “We haven’t received out test scores.”

“The two of you both passed and the Ministry has approved the two of you for joining the seventh years. Professor Dumbledore will be announcing it at the feast. You’ve both been offered apprenticeships as well, Ginny in Transfigurations and Luna in Care of Magical Creatures.”

“Who else will be joining us?” asked Ron.

“Parvati and Padma have been offered apprenticeships in Divinations and History of Magic,” Remus said, “Dean and Seamus have accepted apprenticeships in Arithmancy and Astronomy.”

Everyone took a moment to read over their contracts before a quill was passed around the room. As each contract was signed, they rolled up, copied themselves, and one copy disappeared with a pop.

“Is that everything that we needed to cover?” asked Ron after a face splitting yawn.

“Not quite,” said Harry. “Professor McGonagall, I’m a bit worried. I did some checking into the defense of Hogwarts last year and I realized that something has been bugging me since then. Nothing has changed since Grindelwald’s time. Most if not all of the Death Eaters went to school here during either Grindelwald or Voldemort’s first reign and know the defense of Hogwarts. They know the escape routes and everything.”

“That’s quite a concern,” Professor McGonagall answered thoughtfully, “You are quite correct but Voldemort has always feared Professor Dumbledore, he won’t attack Hogwarts.”

“I’m certain that he will, Professor.”

“I’ll look into changing the policies, Harry,” She offered in comfort. “You should all try to get some sleep. We leave early in the morning for the train station.”

“Miss! Miss! Master Snape has returned,” cried the House Elf watching for him. “Hes has two friends too.”

Everyone rushed into the entrance hall with their wands drawn. They found Snape being supported by Madams Parkinson and Zabini.

“Mother, what are you doing here?” questioned Pansy.

“We haven’t much time so hear us out,” warned Maria.

“We want to help you. Snape has been spying too long. Voldemort has become suspicious of him. He tells us things, boasts about his plans to us,” explained Willow.

“We can’t stand by helplessly anymore,” continued Maria, “He’s determined to bring the Wizarding world to its knees by attacking our children if necessary. We want to help stop him.”

“Will you be safe if you go home now?” asked Minerva.

“Yes, we’re supposed to be shopping in France for the next several days,” answered Maria, “We’ll worry about getting information to you, we have to go. Our husbands will Floo call soon.”

“You must send someone to Madam Patil’s. They are to be attacked because Ashima refused to join him.”

“Fred and George’s shop is only a couple of stores down from there,” said Ginny, “They went home about an hour ago. If you take Bill and Charlie the five of you should be able to get the Patil’s to safety.”

Remus rushed from the room to retrieve Bill and Charlie. Maria and Willow quickly exchanged hugs with their children before taking the Floo to their Hotel in France. Once they were gone, Minerva turned to the group of students.

“Bed, all of you. I want you packed and ready to go by ten. We’ll take a portkey to Kings Cross Station at ten thirty.”