This chapter is in honour of my grandfather, who passed away this year and was the one that gave me HP & the Goblet of Fire after he had finished reading it. That was the first HP book I ever owned (before that I had borrowed them), and after that I bought them all myself as they came out. Z"L

And as always, all thanks and praise to the beta reading glory of Mogul.

Previously: Tom and Harry come to an accord, believing they share a mortal foe in the dangerous Lady Volotredi. After they escape the Chamber, it appears that Dobby's link with the Malfoys has been broken and Lockhart and Parvati are unconscious. Thankfully, Parvati recovers and Harry ends his school year with an ominous warning from Susan Bones about the Slytherin girls working together with Mandy Brocklehurst. With Sirius Black still on the loose, Harry is helped by his friends to rebuild his family home where Dumbledore hopes he can stay safe under the watchful eye of Dobby the House-Elf...

Harry and the Mysterious Curse of the Girl-Who-Lived

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE: FAR TOO MANY CURSES

It was a sunny day and then it was a cool, pleasant evening. Day after day, for longer than seemed reasonable.

Every morning Dobby would bring a steaming platter of exceptional, if criminally unhealthy, breakfast and his clothes cleaned and folded. At first, Harry attempted to cook food for himself, but it was clear that this deeply offended the house-elf so Harry backed off. While initially this was a pleasant change to have someone cater to his every need or whim, eventually the hours began to run together and Harry grew listless and bored.

He nearly read old school books several times, but for some reason, as he looked at the first page of text, it felt unfathomably difficult and uninteresting. Harry realized he was looking forward (crazily enough) to his new class book list, but that likely wouldn't arrive for a few weeks. He had made vague plans to visit his friends before they had all parted ways, but it still seemed too early to pester them about it.

The initial excitement of rebuilding and restoring the old Potter house had driven his interest for a while, but while all the bones of the place were there, nothing personal had survived. So it left a bare, sparsely decorated place with more rooms than were strictly necessary. But he decided one day to take a walk around the neighborhood when it was particularly pleasant out, Dobby keeping an invisible eye on him. He had been given fairly strict instructions from Dumbledore about protections, and Dobby was happy to remind Harry about it fairly frequently.

"It is nice out," said Harry to himself and he smiled as he came across a small and isolated little park. After sitting down on a patch of grass, he closed his eyes and breathed in deeply, feeling the warmth of the summer sun and a cool breeze play across his size. It wasn't bad, Harry decided, just to do nothing for a while, no mad adventures or schemes, nothing stressful in classwork or Quidditch.

As a few owls trickled in here and there over the next few days, he made sure to respond quickly so no one would worry, but there was really nothing much to talk about. Until his first letter from Professor Dumbledore.

HP-

I trust this missive finds you safe and sane, despite your current accommodations. The purpose of this owl is to ask if you would be willing to speak to an old friend of your parents, a man by the name of Remus Lupin. You may recall I mentioned his name along with Sirius Black and Peter Pettigrew, Black's victim, near the Chamber at the end of last term. Remus has been struggling with a few things here and there, but after a few conversations, he has indicated a desire to meet you.

I believe this can be safe, as long as you meet in a public place, perhaps that delightful tea room in Hogsmeade? You can take the Knight Bus there by raising your wand near any empty street, and I have instructed Dobby to travel with you without being seen if that is your wish. The Floo in your house should also be functional if you would prefer a less adventurous form of travel. If it is acceptable with you, send a reply back posthaste, and I will inform Remus he may contact you.

Respectfully,

Albus Dumbledore

This was an interesting question. Harry considered the potential of learning more about his parents, and clearly this Remus fellow was interested in talking to him about that. Although he had been having fun relaxing, a bit of a change of pace might be fun, so he wrote back to the Headmaster that he was willing to meet Remus.

It was only another day before Harry received Remus' owl.

Harriet-

I have too much to say to you, and barely any sense of how to say it. Too much to fit within a single letter like this one, but Dumbledore has told me you might be willing to meet in a public place. There I believe we could talk privately (there is an easy to use charm to prevent eavesdropping) but open enough to be visible. There is a fairly decent cafe in Hogsmeade that is only open during midday hours, called Spriggins' Beanstalk. Dumbledore suggested Madam Puddifoot's Tea Shop, but I don't believe I would be comfortable there.

I am free most days, so all I need is simply the day you wish to meet, if you are still willing to do so, and I shall be there. I look forward to finally meeting you.

Best,

Remus Lupin

"Hey, Dobby!"

The House-Elf popped into view, leaning forward expectantly.

"Do you know where Spriggins' Beanstalk is?"

Harry tapped the table impatiently as he waited for Remus to arrive. He took a sip from an iced pumpkin juice, appreciating the chill during the summer heat. Technically speaking, he was quite a bit early for their noon meeting, but Harry had little else to do and wanted to see what Remus had to say.

He leaned back in his chair, staring up at the clear sky over Hogsmeade. It was not very crowded in the wizarding village, but a few passersby had noticed Harry and surreptitiously stared at him. Thankfully, no one had seen fit to pester him with questions or anything worse, and there was something quite nice about the cozy village.

He seemed to recall some rule about Hogsmeade being restricted to older students at Hogwarts, but that wouldn't really make sense for him, would it? After all, both Dumbledore and Lupin had mentioned the place in their letters as somewhere to meet, and no policeman or otherwise had bothered to tell Harry anything to the contrary. Certainly not Mister Spriggins who seemed more than happy to sell Harry his iced drink.

"Harriet? Harriet Potter?"

Harry shook his head to clear the reverie and saw a tired man that seemed perhaps in his thirties or forties, although it was always difficult to tell with wizards. The man - who must've been Remus Lupin - had light brown hair with a touch of gray, a face a bit more lined than expected, and robes that were clean enough, if in fairly shabby condition.

"Yes, how may I help you?"

"Harriet, it's me... Remus?" He held out a hand.

Just to be safe, Harry asked, "What did Professor Dumbledore offer as an alternative to this cafe?"

"Ah," said Remus with a chuckle. "Madam Puddifoot's, naturally. Did you wish to move there?" He started to put down his hand, but Harry stopped him and shook it

"Pleasure to meet you, Mister Lupin. And no, I quite like being outside, fresh air and all that. You had mentioned something about a charm for privacy?"

Remus nodded with a grin. "Indeed, Harriet - er, that is, Miss Potter, if you prefer."

"I don't, really, it's not like you're my professor or anything. Harry is fine." Of course, Harry knew better than to believe Remus would notice that he was calling himself by a different name, but he always had to try.

"Then I insist you call me Remus, is that all right Harriet?" He sat down across from Harriet and yawned. "Ah, sorry about that, a bit tired lately. Shall I use the privacy charm?"

"Yes, thanks... Remus." Harry felt a bit weird about using the first name of an adult he'd only just met, but he supposed it was okay since the man was an old family friend. "I'm not sure what was exactly on your mind, but can I ask you something first?"

"Um, well, of course, Harriet," said Remus, although he had a wary look on his face.

"You were a friend of my parents, right?"

Remus nodded and he looked down. "You're wondering why we've never met before, is that it?"

"Well..." Harry tried to figure out a way to ask "why the hell didn't you ever visit?" without sounding rude but he found himself having some difficulty with it.

"It's sort of complicated," said Lupin and he looked back up at Harry. "I'll answer, of course, but would you mind terribly if I were to grab a touch of coffee first? Settle my nerves in a manner of speaking."

Harry wasn't sure how that could work, but it seemed rude to say no, so he nodded in agreement. After he got his coffee, Lupin took a small sip and grimaced.

"I don't really care for coffee," he said. "But I need some sort of energy and Pick-Me-Ups are an even worse habit."

"That's fine, I don't drink it either," said Harry with a hint of edge in his voice. "So... why didn't you visit me at the Dursleys?"

Lupin sighed. "As I said, it's complicated. You see, much as I wanted to, it wasn't really so feasible for me. There is... that is to say..." Lupin closed his eyes and shook his head. "Harriet," he said and looked at him. "Try to understand what I'm about to say, just don't... don't run off yet, please."

This mysterious answer made Harry quite curious and he felt slightly less angry. It sounded quite awful, whatever it was, and perhaps it was a reasonable excuse after all.

"You see, Harriet, I have a terrible secret," said Lupin as he sipped his coffee with shaky hands.

"How bad could it be?" Harry asked and then immediately regretted the question.

Lupin smiled a little. "It's not good. When I was a child, I was attacked by a man named Fenrir Greyback. Unfortunately he was also..." He took a deep breath. "He was also a werewolf."

"I see," said Harry, not quite getting the problem, but then a thought occurred to him. "Wait. Does that mean you're a werewolf too? I didn't realize werewolves were even real."

"They are all too real, I'm afraid. And there is a quite a stigma against them, which is somewhat understandable. After all," Lupin said with a sudden touch of heat. "Once a month, they lose all control and become a monstrous beast. Anyone, friend or foe, might be a victim then."

Harry tapped his cup, thinking it over. "So is that what happened to you? Did you hurt someone?"

Lupin shook his head. "No, but I almost did. In the magical community werewolves are considered dangerous freaks, and it is difficult for them to get jobs and certainly for them to attend Hogwarts."

There was something about that description that deeply offended Harry, although he wasn't quite sure why. "Then how did you manage it?"

"Dumbledore," said Lupin and he shook his head with a small smile. "I was accepted into Hogwarts, but I was afraid of going, of hurting someone. But the Headmaster knew it wasn't something that was my fault, not really, so he arranged for a place I could hide out and chain myself up every full moon."

"Chain yourself up?" Harry's face paled. "Was that really necessary?"

Lupin nodded. "I can easily remove the lock as a human, but the wolf doesn't know how to deal with it. These days there is actually something called the Wolfsbane potion that helps. It lets a werewolf keep their senses even through the transformation to a wolf. But the potion is expensive and difficult to brew, so most werewolves can't manage to get a supply."

"Well, I suppose I get all that," said Harry. "But why couldn't you visit me on days it wasn't a full moon?"

"Harriet, I wanted to visit, but..." Lupin sighed. "Ah, we're getting into it now, aren't we? For one reason, I was a complete mess after your parents died. I felt like I had missed all the signs with Sirius, almost like I had betrayed your parents myself. I didn't think I deserved the chance to see you, really, and the werewolf curse was an easy excuse to myself. Sometimes I convinced myself that maybe I was a danger to you, that all those lies about werewolves when they weren't yet transformed were true."

"I see," said Harry with a frown, though he didn't feel any better.

"It's not a good excuse, Harriet," said Lupin and his gaze fell. "I left proper wizarding society for a few years, and by the time I came back, a bit better in the head, I asked Dumbledore if you were safe. He said that you were, and if I wanted to visit, he could arrange it - but we'd need to be careful around your relatives. And if I couldn't manage that, it wouldn't be safe to visit at all. I had a vague memory of Lily talking about her sister, in fairly negative terms, and I worried I would offend her and mess it all up."

"I'm sure she wouldn't have been pleased to see you," Harry said, at the very least agreeing with that part. "Although I know I would have been happy to meet anyone that knew my parents."

"It's - it's a shameful mistake, Harriet. I could try to explain it by my youth, but the truth is that despite all that Gryffindor bravado they always talk about, I wasn't brave enough to face my own fears. And the older you got, the closer to Hogwarts age, I began to worry that if I did introduce myself, you'd hate me for not doing it sooner."

"It's hard to know what I might have done or not, but I suppose it could've been worse," said Harry with a touch of anger in his voice. "You could've waited until I graduated Hogwarts entirely."

"Thankfully I'm not bad as all that, or at least I hope so. Part of what I wanted out of this meeting was to apologize, of course, at least to try at it. But I also wanted to really tell you what happened with us in Hogwarts, my unusual and difficult story, so you can understand more about what happened with Sirius Black."

Harry nodded. "Yes, I suppose I do want to know more about that. Professor Dumbledore mentioned something about Snape almost dying, but he wouldn't tell me the details. Said it was up to you."

Lupin made a sort of disapproving sound. "He said as much to me as well, but I got the idea he wasn't so keen on it. He felt that you didn't need to know everything just yet, that it was too much all at once. Protecting your state of mind, I suppose. But he did say that it was ultimately my choice, since it is my story after all."

"Well, to be honest, maybe that would be best to talk about," said Harry. "I think I'd be better off knowing."

Remus nodded. "So, as I've said, I have this dreadful werewolf curse. This affliction is a secret, although Dumbledore knew, of course, and maybe Fenrir would scent it if he was close enough to recognize me, and two other people. One that was my friend, and one that was my enemy."

"Hmm." It was a lot to take in, Harry realized. "Who was the friend and who was the foe? Did my parents know?"

"You've got it exactly right, Harriet," said Lupin. "Your father was one of my closest friends. When he found out about my 'furry little problem', which is what he called it-" Lupin smiled at the memory "-he told me it didn't matter a whit to him. There were four of us quite close in Gryffindor. Us two plus, well, Sirius Black."

Harry started a bit in surprise and then he laughed. "Of course. It's almost expected, isn't it?"

Lupin raised his eyebrows and then shook his head with a smile. "I suppose you have something there. The other boy was Peter Pettigrew, who you may recall was killed by Black. But those weren't my foes, of course, although... well I'll get into Black in a bit. I'm sure you know Severus Snape, as he's your Potions teacher."

"Didn't get along, right?" Harry made a tsking sound. "Snape has mentioned his concern about Sirius Black to me plenty of times. He even had me studying the Patronus Charm to help with Dementors, if you know that one."

"Um, yes, I do," said Lupin with clear surprise on his face. "You can perform the Patronus Charm before your third year? I've never heard of that before."

"Oh, no, no," said Harry, feeling a bit embarrassed at the boast. "I said I've studied it. Like how to do it, but I haven't tried yet. Snape and McGonagall told us it wasn't safe to try it yet."

"That is... fair, I suppose," said Lupin and he scratched his chin. "But the Patronus Charm is a special sort of magic. Unlike many others driven by knowledge, it is a magic driven by emotion in its purest form. I doubt it would harm you to try it much, other than perhaps getting a bit overtired."

"Thanks, that's good to know," said Harry. "So Snape was really your 'foe'? Sounds a bit much."

Lupin chuckled. "I suppose so, but it was heightened far more than you might think. Naturally it was all the mess of a bunch of hormonal teenagers, but it was also in the middle of the war against You-Know-Who. It was well known that Death Eaters were being recruited at Hogwarts, and some of those students were being quite obvious about it."

He sighed. "I will admit that at first, it was simply a sort of 'hate at first sight' with your father and Snape. You see, and you may have heard this already, Severus and your mother were friends from before Hogwarts."

"Yes, I've heard that plenty," said Harry and he smiled a bit at the memory of Snape saying something about it. "And also that Snape and my dad didn't get along. I don't remember the exact insult, but it was something like an 'ill-mannered scoundrel'." Of course, Harry had retold that story enough that he completely remembered every word.

Lupin laughed. "Snape always was a tad dramatic. He was a very smart student, but Lily was his only friend. James immediately was drawn to her, but she wasn't interested... well, not until he matured years later." He shook his head, as if in disbelief. "It's still hard to fathom even now, I honestly I didn't really expect James to mature at all. But he did, and well... did you hear the story about how Lily and Snape stopped being friends?"

Harry nodded. "I think so. Or at least some of it. Dumbledore said he called her that offensive word for muggleborns."

"Yes, that was the proverbial straw, Harriet." Lupin frowned. "It was the culmination of the path he had followed towards being a Death Eater. He had been hanging around that crew at Hogwarts for a while, and Lily disapproved - they fought over it. One day we were hanging around outside and James, Sirius, and Severus started fighting.

"I should've done something, but I never did. I should explain that, really," said Lupin and he seemed suddenly a bit nervous. "I was loyal to them because they accepted me, despite my curse. Not only that but..." He looked around and waved his wand. "Just checking on the privacy charm. They became illegal Animaguses so they could keep my company while I was a wolf. And werewolves really only try to attack humans anyway, so they were never really in any danger."

Harry blinked and let out a sound of surprise. "That worked?"

"Yes, James and Sirius were larger animals, so they could keep the wolf in line, while Peter was so small, he really wasn't noticeable. It was an absurd thing for a couple of teenagers to figure out, not to mention doing it illegally. So although there were times I thought James or Sirius went too far, I never said or did anything about it. They were my only friends, Harriet, and I would've done anything for them. I know that's something hard to understand-"

Harry held up a hand to interrupt. "I understand. I didn't have any friends before Hogwarts either, because my relatives were awful. Maybe it would've been better if you'd found a way to visit." After he said this, Lupin's face fell and Harry felt a bit guilty.

"I should've found a way, Harriet, you're right," said Lupin with a sigh. "Your parents would be disappointed with me."

"Please continue with what happened between Snape and my mum," said Harry, too curious about the story to remember to be angry

"Well, as I said, there was a fight, and our side got an advantage that time over Snape - it was often fairly even between us, you should understand. Then Lily showed up and helped Snape out. But instead of being grateful, Severus called her that offensive word, and well, that was it."

The two sat in silence for a little while as Harry tried to imagine how it had happened. If he compared the "m-word" to other racist terms, he could see why his mother, a muggleborn, would think Snape too far gone. But then what had happened since?

"How did Snape leave the Death Eaters? I mean, I assume had," Harry asked.

"Well now, that is another story," said Lupin with a smile. "One I only know part of. But I know that Severus turned against You-Know-You and Dumbledore vouched for him at the trial. That would explain why he is still permitted to teach at Hogwarts. It was always a bit unusual that Snape was recruited by the Death Eaters, at least I thought so."

"Why? He was in Slytherin, wasn't he?"

"He was. And a talented potions maker. But he was also a half-blood, his father was a Muggle. While Sirius was a Black, an old and very respected pureblood family. He was the first in ages not to be Sorted into Slytherin."

"I know a lot of that part of the story," said Harry, holding his now shaking hands under the table. "He was the Secret Keeper for my parents and betrayed them. Then he killed Peter Pettigrew, your other friend."

Lupin nodded and looked very sad. "Yes, exactly, Harriet. Why Snape turned on You-Know-Who is still unclear, as is why Sirius betrayed all of us.. What I do know is that they hated each other in a way more than... well, alright, here's the final truth of it."

He took a deep breath in and out. "Harriet, here is what happened. Severus suspected I was a werewolf, he was too smart not to put it together. But one full moon, Sirius told Snape where I was hiding out as a wolf, in the Shrieking Shack - you know of it?"

Harry shook his head.

"Never mind, it doesn't matter. In retrospect, this should've been a warning sign - I could've easily have killed Snape. Werewolves are highly resistant to spells, you see, so as I heard the tale, the wolf attacked Snape and almost killed him - it was your father that pulled Snape to safety."

"Oh, so... he saved Snape's life!" A warm feeling spread through Harry at the thought. "Then why did Snape hate him?"

"Well, they still didn't get along, but unlike Sirius, James wasn't about to let Snape die. He was..." Remus swallowed and said in a choked voice, "He was a good man, Harriet. Truly."

"Unlike Sirius Black."

Lupin sighed. "Yes, I'm afraid that's likely so. Sirius was a bit out of control as a child, and perhaps we ignored the signs after he nearly got Snape killed, but was he truly a traitor the whole time? Maybe he turned traitor to get back at Snape later on, or maybe he was secretly on the Death Eater side from the start. I don't know, and to be honest, I'm not sure even Albus does."

Lupin looked over Harry with a now quite serious expression. "Albus actually mentioned last year to me about coming to Hogwarts as the Defense professor. To keep an eye out for Black while I was there, keep an eye on you too. I didn't think it was a good idea. Honestly Harriet, I wasn't at all comfortable with the idea of facing down Black again."

"I get that," said Harry and he thought he did. "Sirius was your old friend, after all. And well, in terms of being a professor." Harry paused to think about how to put it. "Lockhart was... well, let's just say he was a mixed bag as a professor. Maybe you wouldn't have been worse."

"Oh?" Lupin raised an eyebrow. "I remember Gilderoy from Hogwarts. Not someone I ever expected to see become a professor, but I know Albus has had trouble filling the position."

"I hate to keep saying this," said Harry with a sigh. "But although I think I get why visiting me at the Dursleys was a bad idea, why not last year, even with Black on the loose? Or especially with him on the loose?"

"Well, as you mentioned, Sirius was a very old friend, and I was worried I might not be able to take him down if need be, although I hoped I would if it came down to it. After the Chamber was open, I did ask Albus whether he wanted any help, but he thought the optics weren't good - it was too much with everything going on to bring me in when everyone thought Sirius Black was behind the Chamber."

"Wasn't he, though?"

Lupin gave Harry a careful look. "I'm not convinced, Harriet. Besides, Albus said that it wasn't exactly that, at least not entirely. He did mention that perhaps I should be the Defense professor this year, but..." He shook his head. "Well, the situation hasn't really changed, has it?"

"Hmm." Harry frowned and thought it over. "Listen, I don't know Black like you did. Or maybe like you thought you did. But with him still on the loose, I'd rather have you at Hogwarts than not, you know what I mean?"

After Remus didn't say anything for a few seconds, Harry was worried that he had offended the man, but then Remus let off a sharp laugh.

"Harriet, you're more thoughtful than any of us ever were. Well, except for Lily. I suppose that makes sense, doesn't it?" He looked at Harry and smiled, but this was a smile that seemed pleasant, and hopeful. "Maybe I'll come to Hogwarts after all."

Day after day, the letters trickled in to offer a bit of break from the monotony of the unfairly assigned summer homework.

Dear Harriet,

How is your summer going? Not too isolated, I hope? I expect to be heading to Diagon Alley for supplies in two weeks, so hopefully we can coordinate schedules then. I've been trying to convince my parents to let me get a magical pet when we go there, but I think I'd rather have something a bit different than most. I know you have Hedwig, and she's lovely, but I'd prefer a pet you can have around more often.

In terms of your question about my parents, I have to say, you are right. They are being odd when talking about you, but I don't entirely understand it. I have enclosed their answer to your question, which makes little sense to me, but maybe you'll have better luck. I've been writing a bit to Anthony and Padma, but you know I'm a fair bit closer to them than the rest of our little group.

I'm sure you'll see the Patils soon enough, so you can pass along my regards then. I'd rather not spread rumours about anything until then, I'm sure they'll be fine explaining everything. See you soon, Harriet!

Love from,

Hermione

A note was attached to the owl, this one on lined Muggle style notebook paper.

Dear Mister or Miss Potter,

We apologize, but our efforts to explain your gender discrepancy have not worked out, as you suspected. Naturally, we cannot speak to the Magical nature of the situation, and it is honestly a bit alarming to bring up your Curse to Hermione and not have her grasp what we are talking about. In a favour to us, if you can accept it, please do not bring it up again around her, it's a bit too much for us to handle. Apologies again, but we are sure a member of your Magical community will be far better suited to assist.

Sincerely,

Dr. and Dr. Granger

"Dr. and Dr.?" Harry rolled his eyes. "Well, I had to try anyway." As the only Muggles Harry had met since coming to Hogwarts, he had been hoping there might be some way to get through to Hermione about his curse with the help of her parents. The two dentists seemed polite enough, but it was clear that all this talk of curses and odd magic was more than they wanted to deal with. Honestly though, Harry couldn't entirely blame them for that.

Hey Harriet-

I had an idea for something when you visit this summer. It'll be easier to explain when I see you, but it has to do with my parents. My grandmother is a bit iffy about it, but it's my decision. We can talk about when you stop by.

-Neville Longbottom

Harriet, how's it going? And so on. Anyway, I have some pretty exciting news, I actually finished some of our summer homework! Wouldn't Hermione and her pet 'Claws be proud? Now just don't tell her it was because my Mum forced me to stay in my room after she got annoyed at me about something and I was bored stiff. Otherwise not much new here, really. Ginny's doing okay, I think she's doing a whole lot better. She hinted that she wanted to write to you, but I wanted to ask you first. Hmm, hmm, gotcha, Harriet. I'm going to take that as a yes, right?

Actually there is some other news, now that I think of it. I overheard my Dad and Mum talking about Sirius Black, and how there's some sort of panic at the Ministry - a year gone and they haven't found him yet. If you ask me, I bet he snuffed it, Azkaban is no joke and how do we know he survived anyway this long? The other option is that he is working with You-Know-Who somehow and isn't that a bloody awful thought? Either way, the Dementors will be back on patrol near Hogwarts, even Dumbledore couldn't get the Ministry to back off about it. Hey, maybe one of them already got Black and they're just hanging around for a lark?

Yeah, I reckon we ought to learn that Patronium charm next year just to be safe. That is, unless you've already mastered it, but if you have, just teach it to the rest of us! Keep yourself sane, Harriet, and don't let Dobby drive you mental.

Ron

For the eyes only of the Potter Heir:

Hullo, there! This is Luna, and I've written a small reminder that you're under a curse every morning so I don't forget. So far so good, Harriet! Ha ha, that was one of my amusing jokes, you get it? I look forward to seeing you over the summer if you have time to see me. Otherwise I'll see you in a few weeks at Hogwarts if you haven't forgotten me.

Love, Luna

P.S. Ginny Weasley apparently wants to write you some sort of apology owl, but I don't know what she has to apologize for.

Hi Harriet!

I'm still having crazy dreams about the Chamber and Lockhart and Dobbly the Elf and everything. What a mess! I told my parents a slightly different version of the whole story so I didn't worry them, and maybe you'll get a chance to meet them over the summer! Meaning if you do meet them, maybe don't tell them we almost got Obliviated by a professor or that Parvati got knocked out. You know how (the word 'parents' was crossed out here but Harry could make it out) adults are, they worry. I'm not sure when I'll be at Diagon yet, because my parents want to go on a trip again, I think they want to see what some of the other European schools are like after all the drama this last year. But not to worry, I shan't be leaving Hogwarts no matter what they say! My parents also told me that Dementors will be back at Hogwarts, so I've been practicing positive thoughts for that "Patronus" charm (see, I remember it!). Hope you're doing the same, Harriet! I bet you have plenty from saving Hogwarts two years in a row.

Lav

Dear Harriet Potter,

I hope your summer is uneventful and pleasant. I don't miss all the stress of the drama with the other girls at Hogwarts, but I do miss you. My auntie (she's in the Ministry, if you remember) told me that you actually saved Ginny Weasley's life and helped save Hogwarts. And you didn't say anything about it! You're too modest, Harriet. This story will be spread all over Hogwarts next year anyway, too many people have heard about it already. So I'm a little hurt you didn't tell me what you did, but maybe you had a good reason. Ah, listen to me, I sound so silly! Never mind all that, please come and visit! My auntie would love to meet you. I mean, she said "I have to say, I would be intrigued to meet this impressive young lady", but I think you know what she meant.

Love, Susan Bones

Dear Harriet Potter,

I am writing this owl to thank you for everything you've done for me and my family. My Mum wanted me to write a formal apology owl since you had to rescue me. It's a wizarding thing, a way to balance the scales when you save someone's life. "I am sorry you put yourself in risk to save my life", that should do it, right? But I don't think she gets it. What I really apologize for is being such a berk last year. I know I was under the influence of the diary, which was cursed by You-Know-Who like we talked about. You still have it, right? Just be careful with Tia, okay? I trust you, but I just want to make sure she isn't trying to use you like she used me. You're an important person, so please stay safe - and if you don't, watch if I don't write another story with Luna about you! Not so funny when it's someone else saying it, is it Harriet?

All the best,

Ginny Weasley

Harriet

How is your House Elf doing? Before I left, he told me he was ever so excited to watch over you, and I told him how important that job was. I think he was rather pleased I was telling him what to do, oddly enough, at least about what he wanted to do anyway. Also, what happened with that friend of your parents? Was he normal? Handsome? Ugly? Rude or pleasant? Harriet, I'm nearly off the broom with the mystery of it, so please tell me everything!

Since you don't need to stay here for a while, my parents are a lot more open to you visiting just about any time. You can use the Floo, of course, just don't accidentally go to Anthony or the Malfoys this time! Also you probably should tell me before you plan to stop by, just in case. Padma is getting on my nerves, as per usual, but she's actually been hanging out with Anthony a lot, not that my parents know about it. Which means don't tell them, obviously.

I'll see you soon, Harriet!

~Parvati

After a few Floo calls with his friends, Harry decided on a weekend to visit them, except for Lavender who was already out of the country.

"Will you be watching me or the house, Dobby?" Harry asked when he was preparing to leave.

Dobby looked shocked and then dismayed. "Dobby cannot do both, Harriet Potter. He has to watch over you, those is Dumbledore's orders. Better that you is safe than the house is, Dobby thinks. Dobby can just be invisible, like normal!" The House-Elf grinned. "Is this being okay with you, Harriet Potter?"

"Yeah, sure," said Harry after a moment's thought. The logic seemed sound to him too. "But don't listen in on my conversations, okay? Just be ready in case there's trouble."

Dobby nodded eagerly and smiled up at him. "Dobby understands!" He snapped his fingers and vanished, although Harry knew he was still somewhere nearby. After carefully checking his written list of Floo addresses, he tossed in some powder and called out the Patils' address.

When he stepped out, he immediately recognized the correct Floo room, where Parvati was sitting on a settee expectantly. "Harriet!" Parvati grinned and ran over to him, greeting him with a hug. "You're right on time, thank you for that."

"Are your parents or sister here?"

Parvati shrugged. "Dad's out working, and Mum's in the library doing some other sort of work. Padma is at a park nearby, where she's likely meeting you-know-who - um, not You-Know-Who, obviously, you know what I mean!"

Harry laughed. "Yeah, I rather don't think she's meeting The Dark Lady. Think your parents would prefer that though?"

"Ha ha, Harriet," said Parvati and then she giggled. "Actually that's sort of a funny image, isn't it? Not that I really know what she looked like, You-Know-Who. Do you?"

"No, not really," said Harry while shaking his head. "The face on Quirrell's head-" he paused as he and Parvati both shuddered at the mention. "That was just weird looking. Probably the real version didn't look that bad. At least Anthony has all his limbs."

Parvati glanced behind her quickly. "Keep that name between us," she whispered. "Will you, Harriet? Padma will get into trouble, and she won't care about it but I'll have to hear about it from my parents anyhow."

"Well, it's no big issue for me," said Harry and he grinned. "I never had parents to disapprove of me."

Parvati gave him an annoyed look. "Come off it, Harriet. Don't play that gobstone with me. You had your terrible relatives didn't you?"

"They did disapprove of me on principle, that's quite true."

"There you are, Harriet! Come on, let's have some lunch," Parvati said brightly and led him to the kitchen.

As they were eating some of the cooking Harry remembered fondly, Parvati asked, "So how was that mysterious friend of your parents?"

"He was alright, I think," said Harry. "He's... well, he's a complicated guy." Harry felt like he could trust Parvati about Lupin's secret, but since Lupin seemed worried about it, it seemed a better idea not to tell her until Harry could ask him directly about it. "He was friends with my parents and Sirius Black, as I mentioned in my owl, although it was my dad first. He didn't have any friends before Hogwarts, so he really felt messed up after Black's betrayal. All alone, you know?"

Parvati gave Harry a pointed look. "I suppose you can relate to part of that, can't you? Did he also have terrible relatives or guardians?"

"Something like that," said Harry quickly. "But he did pretty well in Hogwarts, and said that Dumbledore was a big help as a poor kid without anyone else." As he explained, Harry tried to think over every word to avoid lying while not sounding like he was hiding anything. "He told me he wasn't really right in the head after my parents died, and that's why he never visited me."

"Hmm." Parvati frowned. "Not a great excuse, Harriet."

"I agree, really," said Harry. "But he did really apologize for it - he said that he kept putting it off for years, worried that when he did show up, I'd hate him for not showing up sooner. Basically called himself a coward."

"Are you still mad about it?" Parvati asked. "I feel like I'm a bit on your behalf."

"I'm still mulling it over, I guess," admitted Harry. "But I think we'll have the chance to talk it over more later. Professor Dumbledore asked Remus to be the Defense Professor this year, I guess because he knows what he's talking about, and to keep an eye out for his old friend Sirius Black."

"So Dumbledore supports it?" Parvati scratched her nose and hummed thoughtfully. "Well, I suppose he usually knows what he's talking about, right? I suppose that he'd make sure this Remus was as straight as a wand, right?"

"Naturally," said Harry with a grin. "And he told some other interesting stories, about how he and Sirius Black and my dad didn't get along with Snape."

"Most don't." Parvati laughed. "You're the only one I know outside of Slytherin he can stand."

"Well, he and my Mum were friends, you probably remember that bit."

Parvati nodded.

"But apparently Snape was involved in Death Eater stuff at Hogwarts, the bad crowd. He and my mother argued about it, and eventually it exploded when he called her the m-word."

Parvati gasped. "How awful! So what happened? I mean, Snape's not in Azkaban so he couldn't have gone that far, right?"

"No, Dumbledore vouched for him at his trial, remember? I think that came up when Padma and Hermione were arguing for a million hours back in our first year."

"Oh... yeah, I think so," said Parvati slowly. "I wonder what he did to get Dumbledore to trust him."

"I'm sure if it's important enough, we'll find out eventually," said Harry with a grin and he helped himself to a bit more lunch. For some reason, he didn't really care about Snape at that moment.

It was unusually pleasant in the park as they walked to meet Padma and Anthony, who were sitting on a outdoor table and softly talking to each other. The Ravenclaw boy was gesturing somewhat vehemently with his hands, and he had an intense expression, while Padma's was her typical calm lack of anything.

"Hullo, summer Ravenclaws," said Harry and he was amused when Anthony jerked up in surprise. "How have you been Padma, Anthony?"

"As expected," said Padma. "Parvati says I have been annoying."

Parvati covered her mouth to hide a laugh.

"Um, greetings Harriet," said Anthony and he sounded a bit nervous. "Pleasure to see you, I'm sure. How has- that is, apologies, my summer has been quite productive. Padma told me she helped rebuild your family home in Godric's Hollow, is that right?"

"Yes," said Padma and Parvati couldn't hold back her giggle at that.

"She did," said Harry with a smile. "Had a whole lot of help in the matter, although Flitwick, McGonagall, and Dumbledore were there so we really just followed their lead."

"Wow," Anthony breathed out and shook his head. "What a life you lead, Harriet. It's more than I could handle, that's for sure. I'd be too intimidated to be in the same room as the Headmaster." He glanced up at Harry. "It's bad enough dealing with you, if we're being honest."

Harry laughed. "Oh, am I intimidating or something?"

Padma said "No" while Anthony said "Sort of" at the same time. Parvati started to laugh again, and she said, "I think you're an utter monster, Harriet, but you're our monster." She met Harry's questioning gaze and then turned away, laughing now even more helplessly.

"I'm not trying to insult you," said Anthony quickly. "Really, it's more of a compliment, isn't it?"

"Maybe it is," said Harry with a laugh. "I don't mind it. And I'm not surprised Padma doesn't think so, nothing intimidates her."

"Isn't that the bloody truth," muttered Anthony under his breath.

"This is Harriet's special visiting weekend," said Parvati with a grin. "We're going to stop by Neville's in a bit, and in the evening we're doing supper at the Weasley's."

"And maybe we'll stop by one or two other people along the way," said Harry. It wasn't so much that he didn't trust Anthony or Padma exactly, but Padma was very poor at keeping secrets and he was trying to keep some of his plans to a small circle of people.

"We're going to throw Harriet a surprise birthday party," Parvati said in an exaggerated whisper. "For her birthday, not today. So be ready."

"Uh, right then," said Anthony, looking between her and Harry. "Clearly there's some sort of inside joke I'm not a part of, but if I'm invited to this surprise party, I'll happily attend."

"Wise man," said Harry. "I know I'll regret asking this, but what were you two arguing about? It wasn't Hermione, was it?"

Padma gave Anthony a mild look of annoyance, which Harry interpreted as major annoyance.

"You know Granger would concur with me, don't you?"

"First of all," said Anthony and he now also looked annoyed but in a more easily recognizable manner. "Stop calling her Granger, you know her well enough by now that you can call her 'Hermione'. And to forestall your objection, she only refers to you as 'Patil' when you're intentionally provoking her."

"Fairly stated," said Padma. "And your second point?"

Anthony then smiled and chuckled. "I think Hermione wouldn't agree at all. That's the real problem."

"We should just ask her, Anthony," said Padma and her eyes narrowed. "You may be surprised at her willingness."

The Ravenclaw boy shook his head and looked up at Harry. "Anyway, it's a personal matter, Harriet, no offense. The little tête-à-tête you just heard notwithstanding."

"I feel like I learn new vocabulary every time I have a conversation with you lot," said Harry with a laugh. "No offense."

"See, in Ravenclaw I feel like the older students are always talking over our heads and we need to scramble to keep up," said Anthony with a shrug. "I think that's more of a Ravenclaw cultural thing though. I'm sure in Gryffindor they pressure you to be more brave and whatnot to fit in."

"They don't do anything of the sort!" Parvati said indignantly.

"Well, I dunno Parvati," said Harry in a teasing tone. "Ollie Wood for one has his own sorts of pressures, and what about the Weasley twins?"

Parvati rolled her eyes. "Fine, Harriet, you win, Gryffindor is a vile nest of older students pressuring us to talk back to professors and prank the prefects."

"I think pranking is infantile," said Padma. "And Gr- that is to say, Hermione, she agrees with me."

Harry nodded. "That much I believe," he said. "Anyway, glad you guys are getting along, and I hope your secret discussion goes well."

"It will," said Padma. "Because-"

"A-hem!" Anthony loudly cleared his throat. "Padma, as Harriet just said, it's a secret, right?"

Padma made a sound of disapproval but nodded.

Harry looked over at Parvati but she just shrugged, clearly just as out of the loop.

"Well... glad we're all on the same page then," said Harry.

"Um." Parvati made a sort of jerking motion with her head.

"Right," said Harry, immediately understanding the message. "Good to see you two. We better be off." He waved and Anthony waved back, and then seemed surprised he had done so.

Parvati bit her lip and shook her head. "Bye then!" She crossed her arm into his and led him away.

"Where are we going next?" Parvati asked when they were out of earshot of the Ravenclaws.

"Susan first. I think she needs some moral support, you know, the usual with her. Only so much I can do over an owl. Her aunt is supposed to be around for a few hours, taking time off from her Ministry work. I think her dad works in France or something most of the time, but her mum might be there. After we do the polite minimum, we can go to Neville's."

"I've seen her aunt before," said Parvati and she looked off in the distance, clearly remembering the occasion. "I was pretty young though, and she was this intimidating, cool older lady. I've definitely seen her parents before, but I've never talked to them. I know her mother is a muggleborn, and her dad's a pureblood so Susan's sort of like you that way."

She gave Harry a sly look. "Two redheaded half-bloods, what are the odds?"

"Yeah, right," said Harry and he rolled his eyes. "Did you lot have some sort of magical parties or something? Birthdays or holidays?"

"I don't know how everyone else did it," said Parvati. "But our family was very private about personal celebrations like birthdays. Well, you've met my parents, you know what I mean. There's Yule, of course, and the Blood Moon but we didn't celebrate that one, it's more of an old British Isles holiday. We did do Agnihotra, but maybe I shouldn't go into too much detail on that one."

She looked over at Harry and winked. "You're practically a Muggleborn in some ways, Harriet, so you wouldn't know the whole mess. Ritualized magic is a bit of a taboo, so it mainly goes on behind closed doors. Mum and Dad actually gave us a sort of binding to prevent accidentally talking about it when we were kids. It wore off after I got my wand, but some people won't understand so... don't tell anyone?"

"It'll be our little secret," said Harry in amusement. "Shall we be off?"

The Bones house was a pleasant, airy home in Dorset with a clear view of the Channel. Considering the entire family was a bunch of Hufflepuffs, Harry had expected something more akin to The Hobbit, one of the few "magic" fictional books he had managed to read in his primary school days.

"Oh, Merlin wept, it's so wonderful to see you, Harriet!" Susan exclaimed, and grabbed him in a fierce hug. "Um." She looked over to Parvati with a slightly nervous expression. "You too, Parvati."

Parvati laughed. "You know it's funny, we just saw Padma and Anthony, and he admitted to being intimidated by Harriet."

"Really?" Susan released Harry and giggled. "Well, he's a boy. He doesn't know any better."

"Meaning he really should've been intimidated by me?"

"Hmm, well..." Susan made a sly face but she couldn't hold it, falling into giggles again. "I mean, only a little. Not like those bloody... bints in Slytherin."

"Nicely done. Almost had it without difficulty too. You'll get there," said Harry. "Just need some more practice."

"I notice you don't really use that sort of language, Harriet," said Susan and she clucked her tongue. "A bit of a hypocrite, if you ask me."

"Maybe you're right," said Harry with a shrug. "My aunt and uncle didn't allow bad language in the house, so it's not really natural for me. Heard it at school, of course, but those were the 'hoi-polloi' as my aunt said, although I never figured out what that meant."

"I think it means poor people," said Parvati. "Although I'm sure Padma would correct both of us if she was here."

"Glad she's not then," said Susan with a laugh and then she looked at Parvati with a worried expression. "No offense, Parvati, it's just that your sister... well..."

"I get it, Susan," said Parvati, holding up her hands. "Forget about it. So then, is your aunt or parents here?"

"My mum is, and my Auntie Amelia. Remember, Harriet, I told you she wanted to meet you?"

"Madam Bones is an important lady," said Parvati to Harry. "She's the Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement."

"Right," said Harry brightly. "I'm looking forward to meeting her."

Two older women were having tea around a table in a large, open room with a wall completely open to see the water. A bit of a breeze seemed to be coming in, carrying a mild scent of something unmistakably of the sea. One of the women was clearly older, with short cropped gray hair, and wore stiff, unflattering, but clearly expensive robes. She also, Harry noted with amusement, wore a monocle in one eye.

The other woman was quite a bit younger, perhaps mid or even early thirties (as usual, it was likely her witchy powers lent her a bit more youth than a Muggle her age). Her hair was done up in a fairly elaborate bun, with a colour far more like Susan's, and she was fairly thin to the older woman's broad frame. It seemed fairly obvious who was who here.

"Mummy, Auntie, this is Harriet Potter and Parvati Patil." Susan had quite a happy expression on her face, and she seemed unusually energetic. "Harriet, my mum's the one with hair my colour."

"I guessed as much," said Harry stepping forward with his hand outstretched. "Madam Bones, Mrs. Bones. Pleasure to meet you too."

"Welcome to our home," said Mrs. Bones in a soft voice and she bowed her head slightly.

Madam Bones stepped forward and accepted the handshake, her grip firm and exhibiting some clear strength. "Likewise, Miss Potter," she said. "Apologies that I am not in professional attire, but today is a holiday for me. Once every two weeks, I let my hair down."

Susan snickered and Harry understood, as Madam Bones' hair was clearly as carefully controlled as everything else about her.

"Nothing the matter on my part," said Harry and then he held out his hand to Susan's mother. She took it and shook it slowly, giving Harry an almost confused expression.

"Um, anyway, so Auntie, I don't know if you had something in mind, but I was going to go hang out with the girls for a little bit." She glanced at Harriet and Parvati. "I think they're supposed to go visit the Longbottoms after lunch, and see the Weasleys in the evening."

"I'll prepare lunch then," said Mrs. Bones, and she hurried away, without looking at anyone.

"Don't mind her, Miss Potter," said Madam Bones with a hint of a smile. "Susan's mother isn't such a fan of strangers in her house. Or of having too many people around, for that matter. Makes you wonder how she ended up in Hufflepuff."

"Auntie, don't tease," Susan said in a singsongy whine. "Harriet, my Mum and Dad were both in Hufflepuff, but my dad's a few years older so they didn't meet until after Hogwarts. And by the way, Auntie, my Mum's as hardworking as any Hufflepuff I've ever met."

"Well, I can't argue with you there, dear," said Madam Bones and she chuckled softly. "I do rather like her despite all that. And I'm all she has with your father out in France all the time."

Susan rolled her eyes very obviously and her aunt sighed with a smile.

"Why Susan, you've told me you told these two everything important, was that really such a secret?"

"They know," said Susan with the sort of annoyed voice Harry recalled Ron used to complain about to his mother. "The point is not that you've revealed some awful secret, but that you're being embarrassing. Aren't you supposed to be quite serious as a Department Head?"

"Not on holiday," said Madam Bones brightly and she took a sip of her tea. "Now, I hope you'll allow me a question or two, Miss Potter? Before you disappear with my only niece, perhaps I can just clear my worries on a few things?"

"I suppose so," said Harry slowly. "Although I don't know what I can tell you that you won't already know as an important Ministry muckety muck."

Madam Bones nodded. "Perhaps," she said. "I won't take too much of your time then. This past year, am I to understand that you rescued Ginevra Weasley from a basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets?"

"What?" Susan screeched. "Wait, Harriet, is that what happened?"

"Madam Bones, with all due respect," said Parvati with a bright smile, although Harry could tell it was a bit strained. "If you have any questions about what's happened at Hogwarts, I'm sure the Headmaster could answer them all. He was there for most of it, after all, and he likely knows more than we do about all of it."

Madam Bones gave Parvati a steely look, which Parvati matched back with a sweet smile, the two sharing a gaze for a few moments. Then the older woman nodded and took another sip of tea. "Fair enough, Miss Patil. I suppose I just wanted to know if there was something he might've missed telling me. Anything, perhaps, for either of you, that someone in Magical Law Enforcement ought to know?"

Harry's mind immediately leapt to Tom's diary, safely secured back in Godric's Hollow, and he hoped it wasn't obvious on his face. He doubted that Dumbledore would have revealed that information to anyone else, but if he hadn't, Harry wasn't about to tell someone else, even Susan's respectable Ministry Aunt. So afraid to speak, he simply shook his head.

"I know I can't think of anything," said Parvati and she looked to Susan. "Susan, whatever happened to that lunch? I'm feeling a mite peckish, and I'm sure Harriet's tummy is about to growl any moment."

Harry laughed. "I'm not so predictable as Ron, but you may be right on that one, Parvati."

After they had finished, Susan took them to see her room. The house didn't seem to have many rooms, although Harry suspected that things were likely larger than they appeared. Susan's small room was a bit of a mess, not in terms of debris on the floor or anything, but dressers and shelves stuffed with books, dolls, and plush creatures, all of which moved about. As they walked in the room, a fat, puffy, stuffed dragon floated lazily towards them.

Susan grinned and grabbed the dragon in a hug. "Hullo there, Tanwen! Guys, this is my little Welsh Green. She can't talk or anything, but I've had her for ages."

"That's cool," said Harry with a bit of a wistful smile. "Haven't seen magical dolls like that before. My Muggle cousin had a lot of toys, but my aunt and uncle thought plush toys were for girls so he didn't get any."

"Did you have many plush ones that didn't move, Harriet?" Susan asked and she gave the dragon another squeeze before letting it go.

"Uh, they weren't really Harriet's sort of thing," said Parvati with a glance back. "But you have quite a nice selection here."

"I know it's a lot," said Susan with a giggle. "I'm an only child so I admit I got a bit spoilt growing up. A lot of these are from the Continent because my Dad brings me gifts when he's been away for a while."

"He's away a lot, right? Is there Floo in other countries?" Harry asked.

"Um, I think so," said Susan and she frowned. "But I don't know if it connects here."

"It doesn't," said Parvati with confidence. "Each territory usually has its own Floo network. Floo doesn't work over water for some reason or over very long distances, but they do have international Portkeys, although they're a pain to use."

Susan's face brightened. "Oh, have you traveled out of the country, Parvati?"

"A few times, here and there," said Parvati. "Not since I started Hogwarts, though. The farthest I've been is to some distant family on my Mum's side back in India when we were seven or so, and we had to use some sort of odd underwater ship most of the way. I don't have a clear memory of the whole thing, but I do remember being utterly bored most of the trip."

"So how you been holding up, Susan?" Harry asked with a smile. "Have you gotten a chance to see your 'Puff pals?"

"Yeah, I have, I see Hannah a few days a week, but I didn't want her to be here when you visited since you aren't really close with her."

"Harriet appreciates that, I'm sure," Parvati said quickly. "But you know that she doesn't like big crowds."

"I suppose," said Susan with a shrug. She sat on her bed and gestured to chairs near a desk. "Please sit, guys. Yeah, I'm doing okay. It's stressful being at Hogwarts, to be honest. I like taking it easy, although my Auntie is always on me about my summer revision."

Harry held himself from rolling his eyes and nodded, showing what he hoped was a caring, understanding expression on his face. He and Parvati spent the next hour or so helping keep Susan's spirit up, and trying to express that her "spy" work with the Slytherins was invaluable.

"Honestly, Susan," said Harriet finally after a while. "We really do appreciate everything you've done, but if you ever feel like it's too much, you can duck out and forget it. We're just a bunch of students, after all, it's not that serious."

"It feels pretty serious, sometimes," said Susan with a sigh and she leaned back on her fluffy blankets. "But thanks, anyway. I think it'll be alright, honestly having this long holiday has done wonders on my state of mind. I missed the sunlight sometimes at Hogwarts, took it for granted here."

"It's a lovely home," said Parvati with a soothing tone. "I particularly like the enormous window downstairs to the sea."

"My Auntie thinks it's a 'security risk' or something," said Susan whilst still lying down. "Not like there are any Death Eaters or anything on the loose really. Aside from Sirius Black, I suppose, but why would he bother caring about us?"

Parvati and Harry shared a look.

"I think your aunt may be right," said Harry. "Just that you're one of my friends and your aunt is so important, that could be reason enough."

Susan made a sort of snorting laugh sound. "Like it's my choice, Harriet. For all I care, they can throw up a giant Shield Charm or however it works."

"Well, maybe you can-" Harry started to say, but he was interrupted by Dobby popping into the room.

"Harriet Potter!" The House-Elf shouted suddenly.

Susan shrieked in surprise and Parvati started in alarm.

"Dobby, what is it, calm down - are we in danger?"

Dobby started wringing his hands, his face worried. "Dobby is sorry, ma'am, but we needs to go see Professor Dumbledore because something happened at Harriet Potter's house."

"What happened, Dobby?" Parvati asked in a sharp tone. "Is the house okay?"

"Dobby doesn't know, ma'am, he's been watching Harriet Potter." Dobby put his face in his hands. "Dobby is so sorry!"

"Dobby, stop that, that's what you were supposed to do," said Harry in a polite but firm tone. "Come on, let us see your face."

The House-Elf looked up, and his eyes were a bit wet. "Is this okay, Harriet Potter?"

"Yes, so what happened at my house, Dobby?"

"Dobby only knows that something went wrong. Dobby has been here with Miss Potter, he doesn't know what happened. But he does know this: Someone tried to break into Harriet Potter's house!"

Harry looked at Parvati with alarm and saw her face pale. He turned to Susan, who was now sitting up with a face filled with concern.

"Sorry about this," he said to her. "But we've got to go. Parvati, Dobby can only take one person at a time, so I'll talk to you as soon as I can."

"You'd better!" Parvati said with a smile, although her eyes quivered.

"Okay then." Harry turned to the House-Elf. "Dobby, let's go see the Headmaster." He sighed. It had been such a lovely day until then.

End of Chapter Twenty-One

Next Time, a birthday surprise that will thrill and terrorize.

"I say!" Lockhart gave Harry an affronted look. "Watch where you're going, young lady!"

"Oh, would you please shut up?" Neville said.