The Rebellion

All characters, and other related texts are the intellectual property of J.K Rowling, and her associates as the copyright holders. I have made no money from the publishing of this story.

Chapter 19: Tying up loose strings.

Harry woke the next morning a little later than usual. Somewhere the night before, he was awoken by several loud howls coming from Remus's small room that he used to transform in. Harry had forgotten it was time for the full moon that night over what happened to Draco. So in turn, Harry had to cast a silencing charm on the room, and wait to go back to sleep. It really had scared Harry that Draco could have permanently hurt his mind by trying to memorize too many books at once. One good thing did come from it, they found a maximum safe number one could remember, and that was three per day. It then hit Harry about Draco and his argument, well really a one-sided one to be honest. Harry did the screaming, and punched the wall, while Draco merely told him calmly that he would not stand for his temper to show towards him. When Draco told him that he would sleep on the couch, which had a lot to do with calming Harry down. Harry looked up at the clock on the mantle, seeing it was now ten in the morning, and Draco had already gotten up. Harry quickly dressed and started to leave the room when the door opened and Remus stepped inside.

"Oh good Harry, your finally up. I was just coming to wake you so we could get started today. I also think we should have a little talk about what happened yesterday evening, don't you"? Remus asked, as he looked at Harry to get his reaction.

Harry quickly looked down at the floor, finding the large Persian rug extremely fascinating. Harry scuffed the toe of his shoe a few times before he answered. "Eh, yea Remus, I forgot about the full moon last night, I'm sorry". Harry finished, trying his best to divert the real subject of what Remus wanted to talk about.

"No Harry, I want to talk about your little screaming match with Draco, well you did the screaming, and it seemed like he did the listening as I never heard him". As Harry started to speak, Remus held up his hand, and Harry snapped his jaws shut. "Harry, have a seat on couch if you would". Remus followed him and set beside Harry. "Harry, you need to work on your temper, and I must say that I know where it comes from. I know you have a lot on your shoulders, and have a right to be mad, but to take it out on the very ones who love you is just wrong".

"I'm sorry Remus, I just get that way sometimes, I snap too easily. I'll try to do better, I swear". Harry quickly said.

"No Harry, you need to understand what is causing this. There is several factors Harry; I should have spoken up long ago, and I'm sorry I never did. Harry, your relatives helped with this, in the way they treated you, and I know this. You also inherited a quick temper from your father, and your mother, believe it or not. However, the two major factors, I believe, have been Albus Dumbledore, and the Weasley's". Remus said, as he steadily watched for Harry's temper to flare.

Harry quickly turned in his seat, and stared at Remus. "What do you mean, the Weasley's and Dumbledore"?

"Well, it's quite simple really, Harry. Dumbledore let you get yourself into situations that any other student would have been punished severely for, or expelled. You were never even given a detention, and sometimes you were actually rewarded for it. In other words, when you got mad over a situation, he never allowed anyone to step in and control your temperamental outbursts, so it built up. The Weasley's all have very hot tempers, and you being around them a lot, have taken it, that it is all right to act that way, when in fact it is not. Here again, Albus let's Ron slide because he is your friend. Your friend, Harry, has a very deplorable temper, and it will one day get him in a heap of trouble, once he's out of school. Let's put it this way, I would not want to see him work as an auror, or for the ministry for that matter. He let's his temper guide him, and he will most assuredly hurt somebody one day. He may even kill somebody in a fit of rage, and will land himself in Azkaban over it. Now, I ask you, is this what you want Harry? Is this how you want to live your life"? Remus calmly asked, not showing any sign of a raised voice.

Harry sighed, and looked at the fireplace before he spoke. "Draco said very similar things last night Remus, especially about Dumbledore, and the Weasley's. I didn't know I was acting that bad to be honest. I know I do explode a lot, but I thought it was normal to do so. Don't get me wrong Remus, I love my father, but I don't want to grow up acting like he did. I don't think I am as bad, but look how I treated Draco for five years. It was the same way my father treated Snape. However, I don't think with Draco, it was as bad as Snape's situation ever was. We mostly argued, though there were some well-placed hexes every now and then, but not all the time. I never really bullied Draco that I know of, as it was mostly words. However, I think words can be just as bad, if not worse. What can I do to change the way I act Remus"?

Remus thought for a few moments, then he spoke. "Harry, Occlumency can help with this. It can organize your mind, and can help with your temper. I know Dumbledore made you go to Severus for the training, which was nothing but a disaster. I know Severus used it to get at you, and never really tried to teach you. However, there is someone here who can, and he's your husband Harry. We have already talked about it this morning over breakfast. He has a book on it that you should memorize today. Then, he can teach you like you should have been taught. He loves you Harry, and only wants to help you in any way he can. You hurt him last night in some of the things you said, and I heard you inside my room for God's sake". Finishing with a grin, Remus shook his head.

Harry slapped both hands down on his knees, stood up, and walked over to the window, looking out over the front lawn. "OK Remus, I'll do it, anything for Draco. I really need to do it to show him I'll never yell at him again. Plus, look what I did to the wall, and my knuckles hurt like hell this morning".

"OK Pup, let's go downstairs, and find your husband shall we"? Remus said as he rose up off the couch and headed for the door. He was not going to offer to heal Harry's bruised knuckles; he would let them linger to remind Harry what he did.

Once both were outside in the hall, and heading for the stairs, Remus stopped Harry. "One more thing Harry, I almost forgot. You need to forget everything that Hagrid, the Weasley's, Albus, and other Gryffindors may tell you about being a Slytherin. They instilled bigotry in you Harry, as soon as you came back into the magical world. Not all Slytherins are bad Harry, it's just that some are forced to be, and a few want to be. Although, there have been bad, and dark wizards, from all four of the houses, just look at Peter. Get rid of your bigotry and hate Harry, it just adds more coal to the fire, which feeds your temper. I honestly believe you were set up to believe what you do about Slytherin house, by a select few, and you know them all pretty well now". Remus finished, patted Harry on the back, and continued down the stairs with a smile on his face.

Harry just shook his head and grinned, then followed after Remus to find his new husband. Harry was quickly finding out, just what a smart man Remus Lupin really was.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Draco Malfoy-Potter was sitting at the kitchen table with several books stacked beside him. One though, set by itself, and directly in front of him. When Draco heard the door open, he looked around, smiled at his husband, and now good friend, Remus Lupin. "Harry I missed you for breakfast this morning, I couldn't get you to wake up. I figured I would let you sleep in for a while".

"Thanks Draco, I actually did need it. Something woke me last night, and I couldn't get back to sleep quickly. Er Draco, I just want to apologize again for the way I acted, I didn't mean any of what I said, I want you to know that. Remus said you could help me with occlumency, and that you had a book for me"? Harry asked, as he set down beside Draco.

"Yea Harry, here's the book he told you about, and your apology is accepted. You need to memorize it, and then I can teach you. Remus said that Severus never showed you this book, so I dug out my copy for you". Draco said, as he slid the book that was lying in front of him, over to his husband. Draco then reached over and gave Harry a chaste kiss.

As soon as Draco sat back into his chair, all three wizards heard something pecking at one of the kitchen windows. Remus arose from his chair and began to look around, finally seeing what had made the sound. There, sitting at the window over the sink, was a large barn owl. Remus looked at both Harry and Draco, then proceeded to let the owl inside. "I'll check it for any spells first, the wards should have caught any though". He then leaned over the sink, lifted the latch, and swung the window out for the owl to gain entrance. The large owl then took flight, and landed in front of Harry, on the kitchen table. "Don't touch anything yet Harry, wait until I've checked the envelope first". Remus said as he walked back to the table, withdrew his wand, and muttered several spells over the owl. When all was clear, he gave Harry a nod to retrieve the envelope.

Harry took the envelope from the owl’s beak, and fed it a piece of left over bacon. It gratefully accepted the treat, and flew back out the window. Harry then broke open the seal, quickly scanned over the parchment for a name, and saw who it was from. "It's from Madam Pomfrey, I wonder what she wants"? Harry then began to read it aloud to his husband and Remus.



Dear Harry,

It is with the utmost regret that I write to you today, but I found I had no choice after everything I have learned recently. The Headmaster has returned from somewhere unknown, and has been cursed. The curse, according to what I overheard professor Snape say, was called 'Creeping Death'. It was a very dark curse placed on some object that the Headmaster evidently touched. It had blackened his hand, and arm, before he arrived back to the castle. I also overheard Severus tell him that within a day, he would have died if he had not came to him seeking help. He gave the Headmaster several potions that would slow the curses progression. However, I overheard Severus say that the Headmaster only had about a year to live, or until the curse finally overtook him.

Harry, I then overheard some awful news concerning you. I heard the Headmaster tell Severus that he had bound your powers at birth. Why I never caught the spell, I am unsure. I will be looking into the wards around the infirmary most assuredly, to see if he has manipulated them in some way to keep me from finding out. He said he cast it upon you the night your parents were killed. He also said that he would strengthen it when you received your inheritance.

The rest Harry, is even worse. I overheard the Headmaster tell Severs that he cast the magical bind to keep you in check, so to speak, or so he could use you for doing the Orders will. He is controlling, and manipulating you Harry, for none but a better word. You need to seek help for this at once, as a magical binding can cause side effects to ones health, and cause mental disturbances. Magic cannot be restrained like this, and needs to find a release.

Last, I guess congratulations are in order, as I overheard Severus telling him you had married the Malfoy boy. I assure you, I have no problem with this, and always wondered if you two were closer than it really appeared. The bad news is, that the Headmaster is going to try to use his power, as the head of the Wizengamot, to have the marriage thrown out. Severus is pushing him on this also. He said he would ask for an investigation into the marriage in a week’s time, during the next meeting of the Wizengamot. He stated that he knew you, nor your new husband, would be there to stop it. I urge you to act upon this at once, and cut him off before he can do any more damage.

Harry, I have grown to admire you as a young man over the years, and consider myself a close friend to you, even though I may seem strict at times. I have always done my best to oversee your best health, and I do not want to see any harm befall you, or your new husband now. The Headmaster Harry, is becoming unhinged I think. I do not know what all he is up to, and I would say this is just the proverbial tip of the iceberg.

The Headmaster has been leaving the school for weeks at a time, and will not tell anyone where he has been. I did overhear him telling the Deputy Headmistress that he was looking for an old potions professor that used to teach here, Horace Slughorn. There is something up there also, as he would not give Minerva any details on why he was searching for him. It might be in your best interest to search for him yourself, just in case.

I am afraid that that is all I have for you at this moment. If I do hear any more, my dear boy, I will contact you at once. Please tell your new husband that I am proud of him, and I am glad that you two have finally gotten together at last.

Yours Most Sincerely,

Madam Pomfrey,
School Medi-Witch, Order of Merlin Third Class
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry



Harry lay the letter down on the table for either of the two wizards to read if they wanted to. He looked at his husband, then at Remus, closed his eyes, shook his head, and sighed. "It looks as though we were correct all along. I'll almost place odds that Dumbledore is out hunting for the horcruxes that are left. I would say he probably found one, and was caught in a trap. There's too much secrecy going on to not be. My guess is, that we will find that Voldermort has used objects that have great importance to him, to create them with. I'm guessing at this, because of him seeking out two of the founder’s artifacts. Anything that would pertain to them could have been made into one. There couldn't be many accessible, as he cannot get into the Hogwarts vault, nor has he been inside it. Draco and I are the only ones that have been inside it in several centuries. That leaves what could have been passed on. Slytherins locket, Hufflepuffs gold cup, my great uncles ring, and that would leave something from Gryffindor and Ravenclaw. The Gryffindor artifacts are in the Headmasters office; Gryffindors sword, and the sorting hat. I don't know of anything ever being discussed about any artifacts of Rowena Ravenclaw. I don't really know who to ask about that".

"Voldermort's life, and my life, sort of parallels each other. We're both orphans, both had shitty lives while growing up as a child, and we both considered Hogwarts our home. The main difference being is in which direction we turned, light or dark. We should have both been in the same house, and would have, if the sorting hat had had its way. I think that's why Voldermort would use anything from the founders, because he feels that brings him close to the school, and his heritage. The only one I think we wont find being an artifact is that snake, Nagini. I'm pretty sure he made her one to control her. She will be the last one to get rid of, when we fight the final battle. In other words, he seems to collect things of great value to him to create his horcruxes with".

At that moment, Dobby popped into the kitchen. "Master Harry Potter sir, I is here to make you lunch. What can Dobby get for the three of you"?

"Dobby, I would like some BLT sandwiches like you used to make me at Hogwarts. I don't know what the others may want, so what would you guy's like today"? Harry asked.

"What's a BLT sandwich Harry"? Draco enquired.

"Oh, er, that stands for a Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato sandwich. You put a little mayonnaise on it, and it is delicious. They're really quick to make, and I haven't had one in some time". Harry explained.

"I think that sounds good, what about you Remus"? Draco asked. At Remus's nod, he turned to look at Dobby. "Dobby, if you would, please make us six sandwiches, along with some cold butterbeer, and pumpkin juice".

Dobby bowed his head, turned, and went to work making the three wizards lunch. He couldn't help but listen in on the conversation going on behind him.

"OK Harry, you thought of those possibilities being horcruxes, I wonder if he could have really used Nagini"? Remus asked.

"Oh, I'm pretty positive he has Remus". Harry started to explain. "I think that was why I could see through Nagini's eyes when... "

Harry was cut off when Dobby dropped his knife, making a loud clatter. He quickly turned around and looked up at Harry. "Master Harry Potter sir, I is being heard Kreacher saying something about those horcuzz things. He mentioned them once while carrying on about his poor Regulus. He said that his poor master lost his life over one of them".

Harry stared at Dobby for a few moments, then turned to look at Draco and Remus with a very serious expression on his face. "Remus, wasn't Regulus Sirius's brother"?

"Yes Harry, he was. It was thought that Voldermort killed Regulus himself. Nobody ever did find his body". Remus explained, while thinking back on what happened all those years ago. "Sirius said that Regulus had gotten himself in too deep with the death eaters, and wanted out. Voldermort supposedly found out, and killed him. That's all I remember on the subject Harry, I'm sorry to say".

"Mother spoke about Regulus also. She said that he was one of her favorite cousins, and she told the same story. She said that nobody, within the death eaters, knew where Regulus's body was at". Draco said as he remembered his mother’s tale.

Harry then turned around and looked into Dobby’s large eyes. "Dobby, get ready to help hold back Kreacher in case he tries to make a run for it somehow. Can you do this"?

"Yes Harry Potter sir, anything to help the most powerful wizard or our age, and the savior of us lowly house elves". Draco replied with a bow.

"Dobby, you're not lowly, and never let anyone tell you that you are. I consider you a good friend, and you are no lower than anyone sitting at this table. Hell, I consider you family"! Harry told the little elf. At this, Dobby's eyes began to tear up, and his lower lip began to quiver. He looked at Harry as if he was his God who had came to earth. He couldn't speak, and all he could do was nod his head while he wiped his eyes on his large towel he wore for a robe. When Harry saw that Dobby was ready to act, he shouted out into the kitchen, "KREACHER"!

There was a loud pop, and Kreacher appeared, bowing low in front of Harry. He still wore an old dirty tea towel around his waist, with snot and food stains on the front of it. "What can Kreacher do for Master Potter today"? The old elf asked, and continued to quickly mumble under his breath, "The half-blood who loves the mudblood’s, and blood traitors. Oh yes, his day will come, Kreacher is sure of it".

"Kreacher, I want to know about your old master, Regulus Black"? Harry asked as if it was an order.

"Master Regulus was a good master, always kind to poor old Kreacher. He was the shining light of my poor old mistress". Kreacher said, shut his mouth, and did not look at Harry once.

At Kreacher’s remark, Dobby grabbed him by his dirty towel, and whacked Kreacher on the back of the head with his bony hand. "You will not insult the great Harry Potter in front of me Kreacher! You will look at him when he speaks, and you will obey by what he says"!

"That's all right Dobby, I didn't word my question right the first time. Kreacher, you will not leave this kitchen until I order you to do so, and this is a direct order". Harry said as he watched Kreacher fight himself to do just that. "Next, you will answer any question I ask of you, or any question that Draco or Remus may ask of you, and that is also a direct order. Last, I want you to tell us what you know about Regulus Black, and any Horcruxes"?

Kreacher looked at Harry with all the hatred he could, as he fought himself over answering Harry. Finally, after he fell to the floor, rolled around, stomped his feet, and banged the floor with his bony fists, and squealed out loud, then started to answer Harry's question. "Master Regulus was called by the Dark Lord to help him one day, and to bring Kreacher. Kreacher went with master Regulus, and met the Dark Lord on the seashore. The Dark Lord led us into a cave that had a small lake in the middle. Out in the water was a large flat rock, like an island, and the Dark Lord made my poor master, and Kreacher, get into a little boat, and go to the rock. When we got out of the boat, Kreacher saw the Dark Lord set out a large bowl, upon a stone pillar, in the middle of that island. He placed a gold locket in the bowl, and poured a potion in it that glowed green. The Dark Lord cast many spells upon it, then made master Regulus bring me to him. Master Regulus made me come, and the Dark Lord gave Kreacher a goblet, and made my master make Kreacher drink it. Oh it made Kreacher so sick, and Kreacher was in so much pain, and seen many wicked things in Kreacher's mind. I begged for master to make him stop, but master was too scared to do it. Poor Kreacher was so sick, and master quickly picked Kreacher up, as the Dark Lord wanted him to leave me. Master would not do it, and he brought Kreacher home, and he helped Kreacher, he did. He gave Kreacher potions, and healed Kreacher the best he could. It was one of the only times Kreacher saw Master Regulus cry, he did".

"After Kreacher got better, master Regulus said that he could not do what the Dark Lord wanted any more. He told Kreacher that we were going to destroy the locket that the Dark Lord was hiding in that cave. Master Regulus had me follow him back, and we took the little boat back to the island in the cave. Master Regulus wouldn't let Kreacher drink the potion again, and master drank it himself. Oh how my poor master was so sick, and he made Kreacher promise to make him drink all of that horrible potion. Kreacher did as he asked, but Kreacher didn't want to do it, no. Poor master begged me to stop, but had made Kreacher promise before he started, not to. When the bowl was empty, master made Kreacher get the locket, and told Kreacher to hide it away until we could destroy it. Master told Kreacher to put a fake locket back in its place, and Kreacher took the one master handed him, and did as asked. Master was so sick, and he wanted water. He crawled to the waters edge, started to drink, then the dead came up from the water, and drug my poor master in. He fought them off the best he could, but he was too sick, and they drowned my poor master, and he is still there today".

"Kreacher brought the locket back to the Black house in London, and tried to destroy it like master asked, but Kreacher could not, so Kreacher put it in the drawing room cabinet. Master Sirius was going to throw it away, but Kreacher saved it, he did. Then that old Mundungus Fletcher stole it from the house, and now Kreacher does not know where it is now. Oh how Kreacher has let poor Regulus down, he's had to punish himself several times sir". Kreacher finished, as tears flowed down his dirty, and wrinkled cheeks. The old house elf set and bawled about how he had failed his poor master Regulus, blowing his nose on his dirty towel that he called clothes.

The three wizards, and Dobby, stared at Kreacher in shock. Harry actually felt sorry for the old house elf now, and so did Dobby. Draco and Remus didn't know what to think of the story, but now they knew Regulus Black's true fate. Regulus had turned to the light, and lost his life in trying to destroy part of Voldermorts soul.

Harry quickly leapt from his chair, and kneeled down by the old house elf. "Kreacher, I am really sorry for your loss, and now you have helped Regulus by helping us. Kreacher, we are carrying on your master’s work. Your master was trying to help destroy Voldermort, by destroying that locket. That locket housed a part of the Dark Lords soul, and Regulus was trying to rid the world of it. Thank you Kreacher, you and Regulus did a mighty brave thing. If you want anything that belonged to Regulus, back at Grimmauld Place, including his room, it's now yours"!

At Harry's kind words, Kreacher let out another loud bawl, which sounded as if someone had stuck a hot poker to a bullfrog. He wrapped his bony arms around Harry's neck and sobbed. "Thank you master Harry, Kreacher is in your debt. Kreacher did not know you was helping master Regulus. Kreacher will now be your most loyal servant, master Harry, and now sees what Dobby means. How can Kreacher repay master Harry for what he has done"?

"You don't owe me Kreacher, what you went through then was plenty enough payment. I want you and Dobby to find Mundungus Fletcher, take his wand, bind him up so he can't run, and bring him to the shrieking shack in Hogsmeade. Once you get him there, come for us, and we'll follow you back. I have a few choice words for Mundungus, and we need to question him about what he did with that locket. This is very important, we have to find that locket so we can destroy it for good. Can you two do this for me, and don't worry about roughing Mundungus up a bit, if he fights back"? Harry asked, feeling more hope, added to what they were already learning. At both elves violent nods, accepting their task, Harry went on, "Also guys, don't tell anyone what you're up to, especially Albus Dumbledore. If anyone asks about anything, except for who is now in this room, don't tell them anything. If you think they're asking, disapparate at once, or leave the moment you think they might trick you into telling something. Is this all understood"? Harry finished. After both elves nodded again, Harry sent them on their way.

"Harry, if we can get that locket, that's one step closer to getting rid of Voldermort. The world is finally starting to look better all the time"! Draco said with a huge grin on his face.

"Harry, what do you plan on doing to Mundungus"? Remus asked, worrying about what Harry had planned.

"Oh, not much, unless he lies to me, and doesn't return everything he may have stolen. If not, member of the Order or no, I will get back what's owed me. Dumbledore should have known better than to ever trust him, but again, I highly doubt he cared what he stole from me. I don't get mad, and I don't get even, I get one step ahead". Harry grimly remarked to Remus. He then noticed the Daily Prophet lying on the table that Dobby must have brought. Harry picked up the paper, and began to read it.

"Voldermorts on the move again. He attacked Somerset last night, and just before, caused a bridge at Brockdale to fall killing several muggles. It says that Somerset was torn all to hell, and by what I read, giants would be the most likely cause of that kind of destruction. Hagrid and Madam Maxine didn't do any good coaxing the giants over to our side, and the new Gurg followed the death eaters. I would say they brought a few back with them by the looks of it. The muggle news is laying it off to a freak hurricane, where none has ever hit the shore before. That's been the ministries doing there, or the lie that is".

"The other front page article is about our new minister for magic, Rufus Scrimgeour. I knew Fudge would be ousted, as soon as Draco and I pulled off our little stunt at Gringotts the other day"! Harry exclaimed with a smirk on his lips. "Scrimgeour was the head of the auror department, and it says Kingsley has taken his place. That's good to know, as I trust Kingsley somewhat. I just wonder how loyal Kingsley is to Dumbledore? That reminds me, I need to get into contact with Moody, and see where his loyalties lie. I know he and Dumbledore are longtime friends, but once he knows the truth, I wonder if he will follow me instead"? Harry asked the others.

Draco shook his head, as he honestly did not know, but he did know a little about Rufus Scrimgeour. "Harry, I know some about Scrimgeour, and he is somewhat crooked, like all politicians. Oh, he's for the ministry, but he will let things slide, and cover things up. He's not as bad as Fudge by any amount, but watch him. He will try to use you if he can, I'll guarantee it".

"Draco's right Harry, I know a little about Rufus's dealings myself. He likes running in the dark-gray area of the law on some things. He may well try to use you to garner ministry support from the public. You could use this to your advantage, if you don't mind playing a little politics". Remus explained.

"What about Moody, Remus"? Harry asked, wondering how well he knew the old auror. He then stood up and continued finishing the sandwiches.

"Well, Alastor is strongly for the light, but fights dirty". Remus stated. "If he knows the truth about all that has happened, I truly think you can count on him. He can help me train you, and he can keep an eye on the order. Alastor really likes you to Harry, so that will be a big help. He made that chain you wear, and Albus knows nothing of it".

"Also, my name will be mud by now with Albus, so we need somebody to spy for us. Since Severus broke his neck to tell what he knows, and Albus now knows I helped you two, I wont be privy to much anymore. Alastor will though, and Albus tells him most of what's happening at the Order meetings. I bet Severus knows the most though, as I think Albus has something he keeps holding over his head, to make Severus do his will. I have a suspicion that I know exactly what that is, and it is guilt about your mother, Harry". Remus finished as he thought back about Snapes history with Lily.

"As far as Kingsley goes, we'll have to have a private talk with him, to fish out what he thinks. Kingsley is a good man, or so it seems. Having the head auror in our pockets would be a great help." Remus finished, as Harry set the table, and sat down to eat.

"All right guys, I have a mission I need to take care of, before I memorize this book on Occlumency and Legillimency". Harry said as he looked at his husband. "I would like to go back to the Hogwarts vault for a look around. I'm thinking there might be some portraits of my ancestors there that might be of some help to us. If so, I am going to bring them back here, and create a warded room for them, so we can all have a nice little chat. If I'm correct on this, there's some royal privileges that we can use to make the ministry bend around to our way of thinking, or at least I hope there is. Would you like to make the trip to Gringotts with me Draco, we wont be gone too long, maybe a couple of hours tops"? Harry asked.

"Sure, as soon as you finish eating, we'll go. I need to go by the apothecary anyhow, and place my orders for the new ingredients for the lab. I think Veritaserum will be the first thing I need to brew because of Fletcher, as I only have one phial left". Draco said as he arose to get ready. "I'll finish getting dressed, and be back down in a few minutes".

As soon as Draco left the kitchen, Remus brought up a touchy subject concerning the teens. "Harry, you need to try to contact Narcissa, and see if she will switch sides, or has already switched. If she has, we will need to bring her under our protection. You mentioned it the other day, but we need to get this taken care of as quick as possible".

"Yea, I'll write a letter this evening and send it out. Hopefully, we can meet her in a few days time". Harry said, and began to finish his lunch. As soon as he took the last drink of his pumpkin juice, Draco came back into the kitchen.

"Are you ready my darling"? Draco drawled with a smirk on his lips, clearly enjoying yanking Harry's chain.

"Yea, yea, come on, place the glamour’s on me, and let's get going". Harry said, finishing with a huff. He couldn't help but finally grin at Draco's antics.

After both boys had placed the glamour charms on each other, they went to the front gate of the lodge, and disapparated to the back of the Leaky Cauldron.

Remus had just started to go back upstairs to rest, when he heard another pecking at the window over the sink. He got up to let another owl inside, and this one was a grand specimen, a great eagle owl. He took the letter it was carrying, and the owl turned to leave before he could feed it. He opened the letter, and began to read.



My Dearest Draco,

Oh my son, I am so glad you escaped what was happening. I wanted to try and stay, to secure the house, but I must take my leave, as I am sure the Dark Lord will be coming back here. I will be fleeing here, and am now setting the wards to try and keep them out. I will be putting the manor under the Fidelius charm, so you will not be able to find it, until I give you the location. I will be at Gringotts today, somewhere around noon. Please come to see me as soon as you can make it.

Draco, I know of your marriage to Mr. Potter, and I am glad you have done this. I am so glad that you never followed after your father, and that you have made the decision you have. I give my blessing to you both, and I hope to meet my new son-in-law sometime today. Please bring him with you, as I will be most gracious.

Love from your mother,

Narcissa Malfoy



Remus finished reading the letter, folded it up, and placed it inside his robes. He knew that there would be no rest today, and he still felt sore all over. He quickly found a pain potion, downed it, and quickly left the lodge, disapparating to Diagon Alley. Once he apparated to the entrance to the alley, he quickly set out looking for Harry and Draco.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

The tram that the two young wizards were riding flew by the vaults underneath Gringotts. It was on its way to vault number 007, and a couple of goblins had gone on ahead, to use their clinkers to scare the dragons back, before the two teens arrived.

"Vault number 007, Hogwarts". Mr. Griphook stated, as the tram came to a halt. Harry reached him a lantern, and the two teens climbed out behind the old goblin.

"Thank you, Griphook! I will only be a short while, and we will be back". Harry stated, as he walked forward, and placed his hand on the vaults door. As soon as he tipped the door, the tumblers turned, and the old rusty door swung open. He then stepped inside, motioning for Draco to follow him.

Both wizards walked to the rear of the vault to where the heir’s rooms were located. Harry came to the one for Gryffindor first, looked at the heirship line, and stepped over it. After seeing nothing ill happened, he held his had out for Draco, to lead him across. Draco accepted it, then stepped across the glowing line. Once inside, they made their way to a large portrait, which was covered with an old dusty sheet. Harry grabbed the sheet, and threw it back, uncovering the painting of Godric Gryffindor himself. The man seemed to be sleeping, but suddenly cracked one eye open, and stared out at the two wizards. At this, both boys jaws dropped, and they froze.

"Hmm, some heir I've got, too afraid to speak? Where's ye courage boys, which one of ye is me heir"? Godric Gryffindor scolded, as he looked at both young men with a penetrating stare.

Harry stepped forward, and gained the courage to finally speak. "I am, Harry Potter my Lord". Harry then gave a small bow, straightened back up, and looked at the old wizard.

"I'm not just a Lord boy, I am a Sir, a knight, and am to be addressed as such"! Godric growled out as he took in Harry's appearance. "Hmm, ye favor that Peverell boy who married my granddaughter. Ye be any kin to him"?

Harry slightly frowned at the way Godric was treating him, but held back his temper. "Yes I am, he was my great, many times over, grandfather, on my fathers side. I am also kin to Lord Salazar Slytherin through the Peverell's".

"Ah, I see. Ye got ye boniness from him then. Where is my old friends portrait, I would like to see him? Gryffindor asked, as he looked at both of the teens. "Who is ye friend with ye today"?

"Oh, er, Lord Slytherin is in his own room here in the vault. My friend is also my husband, acting Lord Draco Malfoy". Harry spluttered out as he looked back to Draco.

"Malfoy eh? You be from the Malfoi's of France I take it? That's spelled with an I, not a Y, that is". Gryffindor asked with a gruff voice.

Draco stepped forward, his cool mask firmly in place, and spoke as elegantly as possible. "Yes, Sir Godric, I am. However, they changed the last names spelling centuries ago, to be spelled with a Y after they moved here from France. I am glad to meet you Sir, and look forward to talking more". Draco finished, as he gave Gryffindor a slight bow.

"Boys, do you know why I am here, in this dingy ol' vault, and not at the castle as I should be"? Godric asked both. As the teens shook their head, he continued on. "Headmaster Dippet had us removed, saying something about how the new, upcoming headmaster, would use us for ill gains. He wanted power, and wealth according to him. He said that the new one was buying time to take what he wanted. Do ye know anything about that"? Godric asked slyly.

"I'm afraid so, grandfather sir. He had me hid away for eleven years, with relatives who were muggles, and hated magic. I just found out that he had been robbing me of money from the family vault. He had finagled his way into becoming my administrator, after my parents died. I sometimes wonder if he didn't know something about that, and allowed it to happen. Anyhow, if it is OK with you grandfather, I am going to take you home with me, and place you there so we can talk more. I will retrieve Salazar's portrait also, and have you both together then. At least you will have some company.

"Right now grandfather, I am having to fight a dark wizard, and I am looking for any old spell books you may have had to use in defeating him. Even spells you know that has never been recorded. Are there any in here I should take with us"? Harry finished, as he looked around the room.

"Ah, ye be needing training then my boy. Why yes there is, and my personal ones are in that big chest over there". Godric said, as he pointed to a large oak chest in the corner. "I will train ye, as I will not have anyone trying to kill off me own offspring. Boy, I'm gonna tell ye now, ye need not be afraid of magic, nor any kind of it. If ye is gonna win, ye use it all, not just some of it". Godric growled out.

"Thank you grandfather, sir. If you don't mind, I'm going to cover you back up, until I get you home. I'll hang you in the study along with Salazar. I'll talk to you once I get you there, and it has been a pleasure". Harry stated, as he looked his great-great grandfather over once again.

"Not a problem me lad, just shrink me down, and take me outta here. Watch the paint though, I don' want ye to be ruinin' me robes". Godric finished with a huge laugh.

Harry grinned at his grandfather, covered him with the sheet, and shrunk the portrait down to fit inside his robe pocket. He then walked over to the trunk to take a look at it. He looked at his husband, and then laid his hand on the lid of the huge trunk. The lock opened with a loud clack, and he raised the squeaky lid in the air. Inside, the trunk was filled with books on every spell known for defense and offense at the time. They still had preservation charms on them, so the trunk would be OK to shrink. Harry closed the trunk, locked it, then shrunk it down to the size of a matchbox. He finally took Draco's hand, and made his way out of the room, and over to the entrance of Salazar Slytherin's.

"Well, let's see if I'm accepted as his heir or Voldermort. If something happens to me Draco, get me out of here quick, and take me to St. Mungo's under my invisibility cloak. Ask for healer Sturgeon only, he knows me, and won't inform no one but who I want him too. That would be you and Remus of course". Harry then leaned in and gave Draco a chaste kiss, pulled back, squared his shoulders, and stepped across the line.

With a great sigh of relief, Harry looked at himself. Nothing was wrong with him, so he held out his hand to Draco to take. Draco did, and was led across the heirship line. They made their way to another covered portrait, and Harry pulled off the sheet that was covering it. There, in a gold gilded chair, sat Salazar Slytherin, who was not asleep. Salazar squinted his eyes at the newcomers, looking over the pair thoroughly.

"Ah, I see I have company". Salazar hissed.

Draco looked at Harry, not understanding what was going on, as he heard nothing but a hiss. He finally caught on as Harry spoke back, knowing then it was in Parseltongue.

"Good day grandfather Slytherin, my name is Harry Potter, and I have come to get you out of this place that headmaster Dippet placed you in all those years ago. I have just spoken to grandfather Gryffindor, and he told me to retrieve your portrait also". Harry hissed.

Seeing that the one boy could speak his snake language, and knowing his blood was the boys own, he then spoke in English. "Ah, so you are my heir, but there's another, isn't there. Yes, I remember the lad at school, or that was before headmaster Dippet removed us. He said it was over the new headmaster, but I think it was over both he, and my other grandson. Tell me lad, what has happened to him"?

Harry thought for a moment about the answer, schooled his features, and began to speak. "Grandfather, the one you speak of, Tom Riddle Jr., has turned dark, and very dark at that. He's been trying to kill me since I was a baby, over some prophecy, which may not even be true. There is a lot to tell you grandfather, but not here. I am going to take you home with me, and hang your portrait with Godrics, so you can have the company that I know you must miss. I cannot remove the ladies Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw, as they are in separate rooms each, and are protected with an heirship line at the entrance. I will try to find their descendents, and have them to reunite you four. I think I may know who Lady Hufflepuff's is, but I am not sure about Lady Ravenclaw's". After Salazar gave him a nod to continue, Harry went on. "I am in need of training to fight my cousin, and grandfather Godric has agreed to help me. I am hoping you can also, along with showing me any books you have on fighting, and any potions books we may need".

Salazar looked at Harry for a moment, and then frowned at him. "I am disappointed at you, my young grandson. You have not introduced me to this young lad that is with you. Who is he, as he looks familiar"?

"I'm sorry grandfather, where are my manners. This is my husband grandfather, the acting Lord Malfoy. He is from the Malfoi's of France". Harry stated nervously. He had forgotten about the pureblood traditions of manners first.

"Quiet right, my young grandson. Your mate looks just like the early Malfoi's that came over from France, the same features, with the blond hair. You've chosen well young Harry, I commend you". Salazar said, as the two young wizards looked at each other with a soft grin. "Young Harry, there is a large sectioned trunk in the corner over there, which will have all of my personal books and papers inside it. Please bring it with you, as your training will begin when we get home. Please be careful with me will you, I am very old, and I would like my portrait to stay whole".

"Thank you grandfather Slytherin, let's get you out of this dingy old vault, shall we"? Harry said, as he covered the portrait back up with the sheet, shrunk it down, and placed it inside his pocket with Godric Gryffindors portrait.

Both young men walked over to the trunk, checked it out for preservation charms, closed it, and shrank it down for Draco to carry in his pocket. Draco then looked at Harry, grabbed him by the front of his robes, and drew him into him for a long and lustful kiss.

"Harry, I am so proud of you, and just think, we will be privy to the founders teachings, while having them all to ourselves. I really can’t wait to start on the potions lessons with Salazar. It's untelling what lost knowledge we will both be learning. I feel the best I have felt about this war since I was five, as I never knew anything about it then. I feel hope Harry, and I love you for all of it". Draco said, as he wiped away a single tear. "Come on, let's get back to Diagon Alley, get our shopping done, and go home".

Both young wizards then left the Hogwarts vault, meeting Griphook outside, who was waiting at the tram. They all climbed aboard, and quickly made their way back up to the banks offices. Once inside, they met Remus, who was waiting impatiently for them. He looked bad that day, he hadn't had any rest to speak of, and Harry felt sorry for him waiting.

"Remus, what's up, I didn't think you were coming"? Harry asked, as he walked over to where Remus sat.

Remus stood up, placed a hand on Harry’s shoulder, and brought him close so he could whisper in his ear. "Harry, we have to go upstairs quickly, we have a visitor".

"Who"? Harry said aloud.

"Shhh, Harry, be quiet, do you want everyone to know our business"? Remus replied as he shook his head. He then took both teens by the elbow, and quickly led them upstairs. Remus led the two to a small office, at the end of a long, dark, hallway that was located at the back of the bank. Remus quickly opened the door, and pushed both boys inside. He then followed them, quickly closing the door behind him, and erecting several different wards.

When both young men’s eyes adjusted to the light, they froze as they looked at the lone figure setting in a comfortable chair across from them, which she must have conjured for herself. Narcissa Malfoy looked up at the two youths, and gave them a heart-warming smile. She quickly stood up, and grabbed her son, hugging him to her, while practically squeezing the breath out of him.

"Oh my God, Draco, I am so proud of you, and what you have done". She released him from her hug, pushed him back, and gave him a good once over, taking in his appearance. Even though he was under a glamour, she could tell it was her son. He looked healthy, and the best she had seen him. "Please Dragon, remove the glamour so I can see you, and you too Harry".

Both boys did as they were told, and she stood back taking in them both. She noticed at once how Draco had reached for Harry's hand, in which he took without thinking. Finally, without even a blink, Narcissa walked over and hugged Harry.

"Harry, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, for helping my Draco. He never was cruel as everyone thought. He was forced to act the way he did by his father". Narcissa explained as she spat the last word out, as if it greatly offended her. She then patted Harry's cheek, sat back down, and transfigured three more office chairs into comfortable ones. "Please you three, have a seat".

As the three wizards sat down, Draco finally spoke. "Mother, not that I am not glad to see you, but what are you doing here"?

Narcissa looked at her son for a moment, thinking of the best way to explain her appearance. "My son, I have come to be with you. I had to stay back after you left, to see what was actually going to happen. I know now what all that horrid thing had planned for you, and I would never allow that. I had no idea what Bella had done to you that night, but I did find out from Severus. He also told me about you marrying Harry here, and I am so pleased with it. You both have my full blessing. As soon as I could take care of everything, I placed the manor under the Fidelius charm, so they could not use it for their gain. Here is the address for you two, I have already given it to Remus". She then handed the two teens a paper with the address written on it. After they read it, she took both pieces of paper, and burned them.

Remus took out the letter he brought, and handed it to Draco. "Here Draco, this should explain why your mother and I are here".

Draco took the letter, and quickly read it. He looked up at his mother with unshed tears in his eyes. "Mother, I'm so glad you came. We were going to write you this evening, and ask you to meet with us. I see now, we will not have too. You can stay with us now, we're living at the old Black hunting lodge. We were going to place it under the Fidelius, and we will now that we have you safely with us. I think we should maybe leave before we have any unsuspected visitors, don't you think"?

Harry finally made himself speak. "Mrs. Malfoy, are you saying that you are freely coming over to my side, and that I now have your loyalty"?

"Mr. Potter, Harry, if I may call you that, I am on your side, my sons side, and have always been. I have never been a death eater, and am not marked". At this, Narcissa pulled up her left sleeve to show Harry. "I never wanted to follow Lucius, nor wanted to marry him. My father and mother forced me into the marriage. The only good thing in my life that has come from it is my son, and he is whom I follow and protect. I had originally planned on leaving for France with Draco, until he left that night. When I found out what he had done, I had only a few days to take care of everything, and then try to find him. I sent an owl this morning, and came here to wait; hoping you both would show up. Remus had gotten my letter after you left, and came to help. So, here we all are now, and I hope you can accept me".

"Mrs. Malfoy, by me saying 'my side', I mean following me, and not Albus Dumbledore. We have found out certain things about Dumbledore, which in some ways makes him almost as bad as Voldermort. I only have Draco and Remus that I trust with my life as of now, and who follows me. I do not have the protection of the Order of the Phoenix any more. Do you understand this"?

"First, please call me Narcissa or mum. After all, you are my son-in-law". Narcissa chided Harry, and waited for him to accept. "Now, as far as Albus Dumbledore, I have known how underhanded he is for some time. I had already made up my mind to do as you asked, and not him. I will do as you, or my son tell me, and none other. I will protect you the same as I would my son, as you are now my family. You are also the head of the house of Black, and I am obligated to do as you wish. So, with all the explanations made, I now ask you, my Lord, for asylum in the Most Ancient, and Noble House of Black". With the request finally made, Narcissa stood, and bowed to Harry.

Harry then stood himself, and walked over to Narcissa. He then pulled her into a hug, and spoke softly to her. "You're welcome mum, let's go home". He released her from the hug, took Draco's hand, as he walked up beside them, and the three wizards, and one witch, left Gringotts bank, escaping secretly out the back, and disapparated to the Black hunting lodge.

Once safely back home, Harry and Draco reset the wards to allow Narcissa entrance. They then cast the Fidelius charm on the house, making Remus the secret keeper. Harry made the choice for Remus to be the secret-keeper, because he was worried that Voldermort could somehow retrieve it from their link. They then went inside, unpacked everything that they had brought out of the vault, and hung the two portraits across from each other, inside the study. They left the two wizened wizards alone for some time, to finally have a much-needed visit between two old friends. Tomorrow though, training would fully begin, as was ordered by both of Harry's grandparents. Harry, Draco, Remus, and Narcissa retired to the main sitting room, and began to talk about everything that had happened over the past few weeks.

Thanks again for all the reviews! I'm sorry it took so long, but this chapter ended up as eighteen pages using MS Word.

Update: When I first posted this chapter, the editing didn't save from MS Word to Notepad. It left several mis-spelled words, so please re-read the chapter if you want. Edited at 1:36 E.S.T., 08-24-08 Thanks again!