As always, thanks unending goes to my mysterious beta Mogul, who never takes it easy on me.

Previously: As the summer holiday ennui falls on Harry Potter, he gets a letter from Dumbledore about meeting the old friend of his parents, one Mister Remus Lupin. The two end up having a tense but ultimately productive conversation, and Lupin implies he will be coming to Hogwarts to teach Defense. On a day out to visit his friends, he and Parvati are visiting with Susan Bones when Dobby arrives with terrible news - Harry's house has been attacked!

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

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO: A PECULIAR PROBLEM

The first thing Harry noticed was that his house seemed wholly intact. The second thing he noticed was the Headmaster standing before the gate entrance.

"Very good to see you," he said while not looking directly at Harry or Dobby. "I believe I have finished my inspection, Not-Miss Potter."

"Well, so what happened? Did someone try to break in?"

Dumbledore turned to face them and he seemed a bit more serious than usual. "Yes, for a certainty. Although it would seem that they only attempted to breach the gates in a subtle manner. Whoever it was, they are skilled in such things, but it is impossible to determine their precise intent."

"I'm not sure I follow," said Harry. "Is it safe or not?"

"The house remains secure, although more fully when both you and Mister Dobby are present. Still, only a particularly destructive force could penetrate the defenses even when you are both elsewhere, and I rather suspect we would have been able to tell if that had happened."

Professor Dumbledore stroked his chin thoughtfully. "I believe I shall set up something else as a warning. I believe I can get the Ministry to approve Unplotting and Fogging the property, that will make it quite difficult for anyone to stumble across it. There is some additional work we can do to prevent those with ill intent to pierce the threshold." He looked at Harry carefully. "The exception, of course, is if you were to invite them in, but I would not recommend that, naturally."

"I'll keep that in mind," said Harry with a bit of a dry tone. "So is everything really okay here? I mean, do you know who tried to break in?"

"For now, all is well," said Dumbledore. "And although I do not know currently who attempted the incursion, I have a few ideas how to look into it, and a few more of how to monitor the surroundings for any signs of ill intent."

"That sounds good," said Harry. "And do you need me present to add more protection or something here to prevent it from happening in the future?"

"Well, the premises are quite secure already - note that the intruder was in fact unable to break in," said Dumbledore with a smile. "I am merely considering some further adjustments just to be a bit more cautious. With everything I have in mind, it would have to be Volotredi herself to penetrate the defenses, and thankfully, that is not a possibility."

Harry frowned and thought it over. "So... I'm safe to get back to my holiday business?" He suspected the Professor knew more than necessary about Harry's out and about behavior, but there was no reason to advertise anything.

Dumbledore chuckled and nodded. "Of course, but a word of warning - similar to your aunt and uncle's house, the longer you stay away, the less effective its defenses become. So a day out every so often is no real concern, but I advise you not to make a habit of it."

Harry sighed but it didn't seem like there was room to argue. "Right, then. Dobby, shall we check back in with the girls?"

"A moment of your time, if you will, before you are off?" Dumbledore gave Harry a careful look. "I would like you to verify that the diary you have obtained is still safe and unchanged. As you have been still uncomfortable letting anyone else inspect it, I must insist that we ensure nothing has gone awry."

"Well... all right, I suppose that makes sense. But you needn't worry, sir, I actually have it with me."

Dumbledore raised an eyebrow. "Might I ask that you verify its location?"

Harry slipped a hand into a pocket in his robes and retrieved the diary, which he had decided he would always bring with him. "It's here, sir. Anytime I leave I take this and my wand, always. Just in case."

"Very wise," said Dumbledore and he smiled. "But you have not written in it since you encountered the... occupant?"

"I haven't, like you asked," said Harry, a bit impatiently. "I understand it's too risky right now. But I think we can trust Tom."

"I hope you are right," said Dumbledore and he took one look back at the house. "Everything otherwise seems as expected, Not-Miss Potter, so I will now bid you and Dobby adieu. I am aware that you are far too busy to spend time with an old codger like myself."

Harry grimaced. "Sir, really now."

Dumbledore chuckled. "Now, please forgive an old man a simple jest now and again." He raised his wand and vanished with no sound at all.

"He really is a bit of a drama queen," muttered Harry to himself.

"Who is this queen?" Dobby asked, startling Harry. "Dobby doesn't know who Harriet Potter means."

"Never mind that, Dobby, it's not important."

By the time he got back to Susan's house, it was already late in the afternoon, and it was worryingly close to nearly dinnertime.

"Susan, my apologies," he told her as he walked out with her and Parvati to the Floo. "Emergencies and all that. Please pass on my regards to your parents and your aunt."

"Yeah, she had to take care of something or other," said Susan and she looked down, scuffing the ground with her foot. "Will I see you again over the summer holiday?"

"Probably at some point," said Harry, sharing a look with Parvati, who gave a near imperceptible shrug. "I'll be in Diagon to get my books and such after they give us the new list, so maybe we can hang out then." What he didn't entirely want to say was that he was a little relieved that his visit had been cut short - Susan could be a bit exhausting to be around.

"Alright then, I'll owl you both!" Susan grabbed Harry in a tight hug which he mostly returned, patting her on the back. She then stuck out a hand to Parvati, who took it with a dramatic motion, and then the two burst into giggles.

Parvati then embraced the Hufflepuff girl. "You're ridiculous, Susan," she said with a smile. "Still too scary, am I? Ought to be offended, but I shall let it fly. See you soon!"

"Tell Neville I said hi," Susan yelled out as they jumped through the Floo.

The Longbottom home had an interesting, old-world quality to it, with all manner of clearly expensive furnishings. The carpet was thick and had a bold, fiery colour, and seemed almost to be moving slightly as Harry looked at it. Neville stood nearby with more fancy robes than Harry had ever seen him wear at Hogwarts, although they were bulky and ill-fitted.

Neville's grandmother stood next to him, her arms crossed and a frown on her face. Her robes were also excessively formal, although hers were exceptionally well fitted. She wore a very worn out stole of orangey-brown fur around her neck and her usual hat with its conspicuous stuffed vulture. Harry knew he had seen the older lady here and there at Platform 9¾, but it was usually a fleeting notice - although he knew he'd never forget that hat.

Mrs. Longbottom was quite tall and very thin, although she had an edge to her expression that seemed to say that you'd be in for it if you tried something.

Neville nodded his head in a sort of formalized greeting motion. "Welcome, Harriet. Welcome, Parvati. This is my grandmother, Augusta Longbottom."

"Charmed, naturally," said Parvati with a beaming smile and she curtsied gracefully.

"Very nice to meet you officially," said Harry. "Neville speaks very highly of you." He stuck out his hand and the older witch shook it in a regal fashion, a calm expression on her face.

Neville's face twitched in a near smile, but he smothered it.

"Does he now?" Mrs. Longbottom took a careful look at her grandson. "He speaks highly of you two, as well."

"Neville, that's so sweet of you," said Parvati and she grasped his arm in a sort of friendly embrace. "I know Harriet appreciates it too."

"Um, right," said Neville, his face a bit flushed suddenly. "Um, anyway, I know you planned to visit in a bit of an informal fashion, but I wanted to ask if you'd like to visit my parents."

"Oh!" Parvati released Neville and she now seemed unsure. "Um, where are they? St Mungo's?"

"Yeah, that's right. I don't know how much you know about it, but I've talked about it a bit with Harriet."

Parvati looked over at Harry. "I understand," she said. "She didn't say anything about it to me."

"It's good to know that there are some girls your age who don't engage in gossip," said Mrs. Longbottom. "Neville, dear, you should be quite proud of your parents, naturally, of course you should. But I do not think this is a good idea."

"Well, I think it is," said Neville with a shaky voice. "I really do," he said, a bit more firmly.

"You know, of course, what happened with my son and daughter-in-law, do you not?" Mrs. Longbottom peered down at them.

Parvati paled but nodded. "Yes, ma'am. They were tortured by Death Eaters."

"Tortured, yes, into madness," said Mrs. Longbottom, and her voice indeed sounded a bit proud. "They would not give up a whit of anything, both highly respected Aurors." She looked at Neville. "Perhaps their son ought to consider following in their footsteps."

"I would hope you mean being an Auror, and not being tortured," said Harry and then he realized how offensive that might have sounded. Parvati covered her mouth to squash a shocked laugh. "But I'd rather have Neville as an Auror, all things being equal," Harry said quickly.

Mrs. Longbottom nodded. "Well said, Miss Potter. Frank was such a bright boy, and his wife Alice was very dear to me. I should be proud if Neville achieves half their worth."

Neville's face twisted and he took in a deep breath. "If you really think that, Gran, then perhaps you should listen to my suggestion about having friends visit my parents."

"Whatever you think is best, Neville," said Harry, hoping he was saying the right thing. "For my part, I think it would be nice to meet them, if that's possible."

Neville nodded. "It is," he said. "St Mungo's is fine with me bringing in visitors if I arrange things beforehand. When you said you wanted to stop by I thought it'd be a good time to try, if that's okay."

Harry looked up at Mrs. Longbottom, and then back to Neville. "I wouldn't want to impose," he said. "But I'm happy to come along."

"It's settled then," said Neville. He looked up at his grandmother. "Do we still have to wear these robes?"

"I would prefer we look our best if we're bringing along visitors," she said, her face stiff and a glint in her eyes. She glanced over at Harry and Parvati, who were both wearing more relaxed outfits. "Besides, these belonged to your father, so maybe he would like seeing you in them."

"Yeah, alright," said Neville with a frown, picking at a loose cloth from the robes. "You two don't worry about the fancy robes, okay? You look g... um, fine, of course."

Parvati looked down at her casual robes, made for being outside in warm weather. "If you say so," she said. "We can change, but I don't know how long it'll be if we did. Harriet has terrible taste in robes anyhow." She giggled. "Sorry, Harriet, but you know it's true."

"Not only that, but it's a point of pride," said Harry with a wink at her.

Neville grinned and Mrs. Longbottom made a harrumphing sound.

"Interesting friends you have, Neville," the older woman said and her voice was marginally friendlier. "Now then, if all of our quills have been sharpened, let us go. St Mungo's only has visiting hours until supper and we don't have time to go through the Muggle entrance."

The Floo inflow room at the hospital was larger than Harry had expected, with an officious clerk immediately moving new arrivals along to clear the way for newer people. They walked (practically were pushed) into the reception area, which was not quite as spacious as it ought to be, as it was completely crowded with patients, visitors, and various St Mungo's employees, all wearing some particular shade of lime-green.

"Chop chop," said Mrs. Longbottom as she herded them forward. "The queue moves quickly here."

Indeed, it took less than a minute for the clearly stressed blonde witch behind the desk to process each person. A smiling young wizard with a detached arm (which he was holding) went to the right, while an older couple that were connected with a pulsating vine between their shoulder blades went to the left.

Soon enough, there was just one person ahead of them, a witch with green hair and skin that looked like cracked granite.

She said something in a foreign language to the desk witch, who was suddenly even more irritated than before. "What are you speaking? Is that Cypriac or Greek?"

"I is Greek," said the afflicted woman in a very thick accent, although Harry could still not see her face.

"Well... whatever," said the desk witch with an eye roll. "Is this from a potion? A creature? A cre-a-ture?" She repeated slowly. "A hex?"

"Is Gorgon," said the green haired woman.

Mrs. Longbottom sighed loudly and pulled out a pocket watch, which she tapped in a very visible motion.

The desk witch looked over at them and frowned. "Oh, Augusta, just go to the fourth floor, lifts are approved for you lot, I'll make a note of it. I don't know how long this will take."

"Very good," said Mrs. Longbottom and she immediately started towards a room of lifts.

"We've done this enough times to know where to go," said Neville softly to Harry. "Not the first time we've had a delay in the queue either."

As they took the lift up to the fourth floor, Mrs. Longbottom made a scoffing sound. "I think I shall make a complaint about Eliza. Not much of a Welcome Witch, was she?"

Parvati giggled. "Is that what she's called?"

"She did seem a bit overwhelmed," said Harry, trying to be more sensitive about it.

"Eliza's worked here over ten years, and she was like this when she was straight out of Hogwarts," said Mrs. Longbottom with a sniff. "A blighted foreigner here and there is no excuse to keep us waiting."

Neville gave Harry and Parvati an apologetic look and the lift came to a stop as the words "SPELL DAMAGE WARDS" lit up out of thin air in front of them.

"I do appreciate Eliza letting us on the lifts though," said Mrs. Longbottom with a still stiff tone. "I don't much fancy clambering up the stairs at my age."

They walked down a hall past various moving portraits of historically relevant medical witches and wizards, with a door here and there marking a "Rexford Silverling Ward" or a "Rhine Lavender Ward". At one point a tall, clearly harried Healer crossed paths with them as he walked out one door, giving a friendly wave, his other arm stuffed with scrolls and potion flasks.

Finally Mrs. Longbottom stopped in front of the Janus Thickey Ward. She waved her wand and said "Alohomora" causing the door to swing open.

"Isn't that the door opening charm?" Harry asked. "Was it locked?"

"No," said Neville with a laugh. "But my grandmother prefers not to open doors by hand. Says it lacks 'proper wizarding etiquette'."

"Joke all you like, Neville, you know I'm right," said Mrs. Longbottom. "You two, this is the long-term ward. Frank and Alice are at the very end, as they've been here the longest and will likely be here for years more."

"Keep away from the curtains," Neville muttered to them. "You don't want to disturb the other patients. Some of them can be a bit... odd to deal with."

Parvati nodded and she smiled at him. "Of course, Neville."

They reached the end of the corridor, where an older Healer, not quite so tall, but with a pleasant, motherly feel to her, bustled around two beds. A man and a woman lay in them, both thin and worn in appearance, staring at the ceiling.

"Hullo, Mum, hullo, Dad," said Neville, and at that sound, his mother jerked up and looked over at them. She wrenched herself out of her bed and slowly walked over. She did not look much better up close, her hair wispy and white, and her eyes dull and overlarge.

She held out her hand and Neville responded, in what looked a practiced way, stretching out his hands palms up towards her. A wad of paper or something similar dropped into Neville's hands and he gave his mother a watery smile.

"Thanks, Mum, I'll add it to the rest," he said and stuffed it in his pocket. His mother didn't entirely seem to notice, and she shuffled off in a seeming random direction.

"Neville, dear, you really ought to just toss it in the bin," said his grandmother. "Alice won't mind, I'm sure. She probably just picks up various rubbish throughout the week."

"It's a gift, that's how I see it," said Neville firmly. "I'm certainly not throwing it out in front of her."

"Well..." Mrs. Longbottom pursed her lips. "I suppose that's fair. But I hope I don't find a pile of discarded paper somewhere in the house."

"Do you think maybe it means something in particular?" Harry asked, trying to be supportive. "Like a secret message?"

Mrs. Longbottom made a sound of disbelief. "You young people have entirely too much imagination. I blame it on the wireless, honestly, we didn't have it when I was a child and I was just fine."

Parvati's eye twitched in a minor, but noticeable (to Harry anyway) motion. "I don't really listen to it much at school, not really much time for it. Homework, revision, exams, you know how it goes." Of course, Harry knew this to be a complete fabrication and was a little impressed by how easily Parvati had lied without any effort.

"That's good to hear," said Mrs. Longbottom with a smile. "I know your sister was put in Ravenclaw, isn't that right? Highly unusual for twins to split houses, so maybe you have a bit of that Ravenclaw spirit in you?"

Parvati opened her mouth but then closed it and smiled. "Oh, I hope so," she then said. "Or perhaps Padma has a touch of Gryffindor?"

Neville nearly laughed, but turned it into a cough when his grandmother looked over at him.

"Were you Ravenclaw, Mrs. Longbottom?" Harry asked.

"Ha! Hardly," said the older lady with an amused look on her face. "I wasn't a bad student, of course, but a Ravenclaw? No, young lady, Longbottoms aren't Ravenclaws, even the ones that marry into the family. I was a Gryffindor myself."

"Nothing wrong with Ravenclaw," said Parvati with a minor touch of annoyance.

"Oh, I agree," said Mrs. Longbottom. "I was merely saying that it's not really our family style. We do have our share of Slytherins, and a 'Puff here and there. Your uncle Algernon, he was a Slytherin."

"I'm quite aware of that," said Neville with a frown and he pinched his nose. "He threw me out a window, remember?"

Mrs. Longbottom gave him a sharp look. "I recall that, obviously. Algie was a bit in his cups and he was worried you were a Squib."

"That's not really a good excuse, Mrs. Longbottom," said Parvati, with a mild glare at the older woman. "No offense, of course," she added.

"Not to worry, I gave him a good talking to, and told him he wasn't permitted in our house until Neville graduated."

Neville blinked. "I didn't know that."

"Neville, do you think me some sort of ogre? I wasn't about to let someone manhandle Frank and Alice's son, even if they were family too."

"Well... that's good to hear," said Neville and he had an odd look on his face, a sort of half smile, half frown.

Harry felt very uncomfortable about the entire conversation. Parvati looked over at him and seemed to notice, so she said, "Neville, this really has been quite lovely, we're honored you trusted us with this."

"Oh, well... it's not so much trust as..." Neville frowned and thought for a moment. "Well, I know you wouldn't think it was shameful or funny. I had spoken to Harriet about my parents before, so I knew she was trustworthy, certainly. But of course I know that nowadays if I say something to her I'm basically also saying it to you."

Parvati giggled. "Oh, I'm sure that's not entirely true."

"It's not," agreed Harry and Parvati gave him a sharp look, causing him to laugh. "Calm down, that was far too easy."

Parvati made a tsking sound and shook her head. "Right, well, as I was about to say, this was very nice, but we're a bit behind schedule. Some drama we didn't expect. We're supposed to go to the Weasleys for supper."

"Yes, no reason for you to stay here much longer," said Mrs. Longbottom with a nod. "As I said, they'll kick us all out for supper here as well." She looked over at Neville's father, who hadn't gotten out of his bed while they had been there. "I thought Frank might've noticed his robes on Neville, but I suppose that was too much to hope for."

"Sorry," said Harry, not really having anything else he could think of to say. "Um, well then, have a good evening. I guess we can find our way out ourselves."

"Leaving so soon?"

Harry and Parvati jolted in surprise at the unexpected voice behind them. Gilderoy Lockhart stood there in hospital robes, although he was still quite well groomed otherwise, a big smile on his face.

"Um, Professor, what are you doing here?" Harry asked. "Are you recovering?"

"Oh, was I your Professor? That makes sense, certainly, I seem the type."

"He's been here since the end of term," said Neville with a frown. "And he's been very annoying. Far more than he ever was at Hogwarts. He doesn't remember anything from last year or most of his life as an adventurer."

"No reason to be rude, young man," said Lockhart in a huff. "We can't all be important as Professors, can we? Try not to be jealous, if you please."

"He's accused me of being jealous every other week," said Neville in a low voice. "Frankly, I'd rather he be moved to another ward, but the Healers said that he's technically not a danger to us, only himself."

Looking at Lockhart's blank, guileless face, Harry thought that Neville was probably entirely correct.

"Neville, stop bothering the poor fool," said Mrs. Longbottom. "And you aren't simply going to let those two girls leave unescorted?"

"Of course not," said Neville and he threw up his hands. "Madam, madam," he then said in an exaggeratedly regal voice, bowing at each word to Harry and Parvati.

Parvati laughed. "You know, with the robes that sort of works."

Harry grinned. "Yeah, sort of does. So Neville, ready to make sure we don't get lost to the Floo room?"

"I shall do my best," said Neville with a still affected pompous tone.

As he turned to leave, Harry knocked into Lockhart, who had apparently sneaked up right behind them, and the two fell to the floor. Parvati rushed to help him up, while Lockhart sat there, scowling at them.

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

"Oh, would you please shut up?" Neville said. "Or I'll ask the Healers to sedate you."

Neville continued to grumble as they walked down the stairs to the first floor.

"Neville," said Parvati with a sly look in her eyes. "I liked that Malfoy impression."

Neville's face cleared and he chuckled. "Cottoned on, did you? It's also a bit like Malfoy Senior, you remember him?"

"I do," said Parvati with a scowl.

"Well, I had to spend far more time with the Malfoys than I wanted to growing up, various stupid pureblood functions."

"My parents didn't go for that sort of thing," said Parvati with a shrug. "They weren't the most social people."

"Odd how they ended up with you, isn't it?" Neville said with a laugh. "Padma makes a bit more sense, doesn't it?"

"Neville, you should be careful," said Parvati brightly. "I've been told I can be quite scary."

"Yeah, sure," said Neville, rolling his eyes. "When people do things you don't like. But I'd have to be mental to try that sort of thing. So from my perspective you're as pleasant as a puffskein."

"Uh..." Harry almost asked what that meant, but he decided it didn't matter. "You're half right Neville," Harry said instead. "She can also be scary when people do things I don't like."

Parvati and Neville laughed.

"You've got a point there," Neville said.

When they reached the Floo room, where people were still coming and going in a steady stream, the Floo operator gave them all an annoyed look.

"Tick tock," he said while tapping his foot.

"Um, right," said Neville, looking awkwardly at them. "So, you know, thanks for coming. And I'd appreciate it if you didn't spread the story around. I mean like with Ron or Lavender or your sister, Parvati. The Gryffs I'll tell eventually, but let's be honest, Padma can't keep a secret any better than Hagrid."

"Yeah, it's unfortunately true," said Parvati with a sigh. "No worries, Nev! We'll keep things secret." She gave him a hug and then gave Harry a meaningful look.

Harry felt a bit uncomfortable about the physical affection, so he stuck out his hand instead. "Nev, it's been a blast and a half."

Neville laughed and accepted the shake. "Nice to meet you too, Harriet. Enjoy your supper."

When they arrived at the Burrow, Ron and Ginny were there waiting, but Ron was holding a bag of something while Ginny had her arms full of books.

"Great to see you," said Ginny as she balanced the books carefully. "But now that you're here, I have to put these back upstairs." She nodded and slowly walked towards the staircase."

"We were in the middle of cleaning up," said Ron. "But when my Mum realized what time it was, she told us to wait here for you. Gone a bit mental with all the muddled messages here. 'Clean up that' at first and then 'You can't leave them arriving to nobody!'. So here I am."

"Do you need help with anything?" Parvati asked, although she didn't look particularly happy about the idea.

"Ron, is that them?" Molly Weasley came into the room, wiping her hands on her apron. "Oh girls, I'm glad you're here, right on time too! I've been cooking for a little while now and lost track of time, so I apologize."

"No need for that, Mrs. Weasley," said Harry with a smile. "You invited us, so we're just happy to be here."

"Do you think they should help with something?" Ron asked with a grin.

Mrs. Weasley glared at him and then she sighed. "Ron, don't be ridiculous. They are our guests!" She turned to face Harry and Parvati. "I mean that. I still have a house full of children so you two please take it easy and have a seat until we're ready. And Ron, don't bother them until you finish cleaning up!"

Ron rolled his eyes but nodded.

"Smells great, Mrs. Weasley," said Parvati with a smile. "Harriet and I will just stay out of your way until then."

They sat down and Harry realized he was more tired than he had realized. "This has been quite a day," he said with a dramatic breath out.

"That's because you've been all holed up by yourself with just that House-Elf." She looked around. "Dobby, if you're listening, you shouldn't be!"

"Don't tease him," said Harry with a yawn. "He's helping keep me safe. And anyway, you can't tell me this hasn't been a bit much today."

Parvati shrugged. "I suppose the morning was more so. You still haven't told me what happened with Professor Dumbledore."

"Oh, I guess you're right," said Harry and he shook his head to try and remove the cobwebs. "I suppose there hasn't been much time when we've been by ourselves." He looked up to see various Weasleys run back and forth. "Including now."

"True," said Parvati with a giggle. "But really, I just want to know if there's anything serious going on I need to worry about."

"Well, to be honest, I'm not entirely sure," admitted Harry. "Someone did try to break in."

Parvati gaspsed. "So what are you going to do?"

"The Headmaster said that they just tried, but that's all. And they only were able to get as far as they did since Dobby and I weren't there. So I guess 'holing up' there helps keep things safe."

"Don't be difficult," said Parvati with an annoyed look. "You know what I mean. I don't think it's so healthy for you not to spend time with other people, like your friends! I think you were almost grateful to get that scare from Professor Dumbledore so you didn't have to talk to Susan any longer."

"That's not fair," said Harry, not meeting her eyes. "And I wasn't happy to hear about the break-in."

"So..." Parvati leaned over and lowered her voice to a whisper. "What does it really mean? Are you sure you're safe? Who was it?"

"I guess it all happened so fast," said Harry in a low voice. "Professor Dumbledore really made it seem like it wasn't a big deal. He said I was safer there, and would do something with the Ministry to make more so, although I don't recall quite what it was. Then he made a joke and disappeared."

Parvati made a face. "That's not so reassuring, Harriet. Maybe you should check with him just to make sure."

"I suppose that couldn't hurt," said Harry. "It's easy to lose track of your thoughts when you're talking to the Headmaster, to be honest."

"I haven't tried," said Parvati with a snicker. "So I shall have to grant you it is impressive to be one of his confidantes. I'm sure he's doing his best to keep you safe, but you know, he's probably a very busy wizard. Just want to make sure he pays enough attention to you."

"I think he-" Harry started to say, but he was interrupted when Ron stuck his head around the corner and shouted "Oi!".

Parvati jumped back in surprise. "Weasley, give a girl some warning," she said with a glare, and then she patted her hair, although it was still completely impeccable.

"Time for the best part of the day," said Ron with a grin. "My favorite anyway."

"Obviously," said Harry with a bit of a Snape impression. "Always thinking with your stomach, Mister Weasley."

Parvati and Ron laughed.

"That's scarily accurate, innit? Surprised you ain't backing up your favorite professor, Harriet." Ron wiggled his eyebrows. "Even if he's the least favorite for the rest of us."

"Oh, did that sound like Professor Severus Snape, Head of Slytherin House," said Harry in his regular voice. "Why, I hadn't noticed."

Parvati poked him in the shoulder. "You're an awful tease sometimes, Harriet. C'mon then!"

The rest of the evening was very nice, with only Arthur Weasley still at work so it was quite crowded. Molly worried over everything, commenting more than once that Harry and Parvati were "far too skinny" and encouraging them to eat more.

Ginny seemed a bit more shy than the last year, but Harry supposed that it was only fair after the traumatic previous year. Fred and George were as entertaining as always, and for a little while Harry felt almost... normal.

As they prepared to leave, Parvati whispered to Harry, "Are you okay getting back home?"

"Don't worry," said Harry with a nod. "I'll just take the Floo. Dobby!"

The House-Elf popped into sight, causing a bit of consternation among the Weasleys (except for Percy, who was up in his room citing important summer revision).

"Dobbly!" Ginny waved at him. "How are you?"

"Um, Dobby is good Miss Wazlib, but he is appeared because Harriet Potter asked for it."

Harry nodded and cleared his throat. "Right, I just was going to ask you to check back at the house before I got there - just in case?"

"Dobby can do it!" The House-Elf grinned and bobbed his head up and down. "Dobby will be back in a minute, ma'am!" And he disappeared.

Molly shook her head. "He's a bit eccentric, isn't he?"

"I think he's great," said Fred with a wide grin. "Imagine what you could pull off with a House-Elf, eh, George?"

"Oh, I was thinking the same thing," said George with a laugh. "Pity Mum won't let us have one."

"Right, because that's the reason," Ron said and he rolled his eyes. "And sure, Dobby is bit... unusual, but he's obsessed with Harriet, in a good way. So I think he's alright with me."

At that remark, Dobby reappeared and bowed before Harry. "There's is no trouble, ma'am. Harriet Potter can go back to her home any time she wishes."

"It is getting late," said Harry as he looked back at the Weasleys. "And I know Parvati's parents will be worried if we dilly dally."

Parvati laughed. "Sounds like an excuse, I know, but she's quite right. Mrs. Weasley, thank you so much for inviting us." She gave a graceful bow, and Harry knew he wasn't even going to attempt matching it.

"Same for me, of course," said Harry with a smile. "Always great to have a home cooked meal here."

"Anytime, dearie, anytime," said Mrs. Weasley as she worried with her hands. "Ah, I'm sorry Mr. Weasley couldn't be here, he wanted to, but there's some sort of important business and he expected to be back after the kids are asleep."

"Don't worry, Mum," said Ron and he stretched his arms with a yawn. "Harriet will see Dad on her big birthday celebration."

"My parents probably won't be here," said Parvati brightly. "You know why."

"I don't," said Mrs. Weasley with a frown. "But I won't pry."

"Well, I'll likely see you then next! Bye Weasleys!" Parvati waved and used the Floo, disappearing with a flash of green fire.

"Likewise," said Harry. "Thanks for hosting. I would've at my new house but I haven't really hosted anything before."

"Oh, Mum might pretend otherwise," said Fred with a wink. "But she'd never forgive herself if she let someone else host your party."

"Alright, that's quite enough, Fred!" Mrs. Weasley said sharply. Then she smiled at Harry and said, "Harriet, dear, we are looking forward to hosting your party and are very honoured you let us help out. Now then, have a good night - you need your sleep!"

"Of course," said Harry, and after one last mildly awkward wave to the rest of them, he used the Floo to return home.

Later that night, he lay in bed, still wide awake, staring at the ceiling, as the starlight flecked the room. For some reason, he felt unable to relax and fall asleep. There was something about the day's events, which were unusual, though not especially so by Magical standards, that felt different.

A bit restless, Harry walked over to his bedroom window and looked out into the silent streets of Godric's Hollow. It was technically not a purely wizarding village, about half Magical and half Muggle, although all of the residents Harry had seen out and about had been fairly eccentric and on the older side. Dumbledore had mentioned that the house was not visible to the Muggles, or perhaps it was hidden, Harry didn't entirely recall.

So while Harry knew that it was possible that a random wizard or witch might spy him, no Muggles would be able to manage it. The streets were always quiet at night anyhow, Harry knew, as this had not been the first night he had been unable to slumber.

As he looked over the village at rest, he wondered exactly which of his neighbors might've known his parents. If any of them had ever recognized him, none had said anything, which for the most part, suited Harry just fine. But sometimes, on lonely nights, Harry did want to know more about the parents that died for him.

Certainly Remus Lupin was a friend of theirs, if more one of James, but Harry still felt cross about Remus' absence during Harry's childhood years. Maybe time would heal that hurt, but in the moment Harry couldn't overcome his distress to salve his desire to learn more about his parents.

There was some motion suddenly that caught Harry's eyes and interrupted his musings. One of the rubbish bins had been knocked over and there was a dog - not a small one either - that seemed alarmed to have managed it. Then, very oddly, it looked up at Harry's house and it seemed almost to catch Harry's eye.

Harry blinked in surprise, but then the dog turned and ran away, impossible to track as its fur was jet black. There was something about the dog that seemed odd - perhaps it was magical? Or perhaps all dogs could see the house even if Muggles couldn't? At that thought, Harry yawned, and realized he was tired after all.

He fell asleep quickly, forgetting entirely about the incident.

After a few additional owls back and forth, Harry was able to settle on a particular weekend to settle his shopping in Diagon Alley that most of his friends could manage. The idea was to do it the week after his birthday, where most of them would be stuffed and stuffed at the Weasleys.

In the meantime, Harry managed to crack some of his books and grind at some of the summer revision. The more he worked at it, the more the magic felt a bit more normal as he practiced small charms and transfigurations, trying to avoid anything that could cause damage to the house. Dumbledore had hinted that any Ministry violations of Underaged Magic would be 'ignored' while Dobby was in the house, and while technically Harry was not still not supposed to be doing anything, the Ministry wouldn't notice if someone happened to break the rules.

As the day of his party arrived, Harry walked around his mostly empty house, wondering if he was forgetting something behind. He peered out of windows, checked behind closet doors, and inspected under his bed.

"I'm forgetting something, Dobby," Harry said, scratching his chin in thought. "But I did have a thought. Would you mind staying here to keep an eye out for trouble? I should be quite safe at the Weasleys, with everyone hanging around and all."

Dobby frowned. "Dobby thinks that he doesn't mind, but is Harriet Potter sure it is okay with Headmaster Dumbledore?"

"I suppose we can call him on the Floo," said Harry with a grumble, although he didn't like doing it, feeling it a weird invasion of privacy and the way it always seemed like people were about to burst into flames.

Dumbledore's face appeared in the flames of the Floo, offering a pleasant smile, even though his beard seemed dangerously close to the green fire. "Happy birthday, my dear Not-Miss Potter," the headmaster said. "I was hoping to pay a short visit to your celebration later, although it will have to be brief."

"As you are quite busy," said Harry with a grin, repeating the same words he had often heard.

"Naturally," said Dumbledore with a nod. "But I assume if you have made a call today, it is for a particularly urgent reason?"

"I just was wondering if Dobby could stay here, to keep an eye out for problems. I should be safe at the Weasleys, right?"

"Well, safe enough, I would wager," said Dumbledore with a thoughtful look. "As long as both the Weasleys are indeed present, I would not be overly concerned. It is more a safety concern when you are out and about, on the street or in a Muggle area. I do appreciate you asking me, of course, it strikes me as quite a mature and reasonable tactic."

"Thanks," said Harry dryly. "I do try at times."

Dumbledore chuckled. "Yes indeed, as do I. Now, just to provide a quick update before you flee, I have not yet been able to complete approval of Unplotting the property, the Ministry is dragging its heels on it. Although they did permit Fogging, which is fairly pointless on its own, which is, I suppose, why they so easily approved it."

"Right, right," said Harry, feeling quite certain that Dumbledore was aware he was mostly talking over Harry's head.

"After you go to Diagon, please give me a 'ring' on the Floo," said Dumbledore. "Next week or so would be best. I am pursuing another idea for safety while you are at Hogwarts, and by then hopefully all should be resolved. Until then, unless I see you later today, happy birthday my dear!"

"Thanks, sir," said Harry and waved goodbye. After the headmaster's head had disappeared, Harry felt a bit drained already. And he still hadn't even made it to his party. Ah, well.

"Dobby, I'm off," he said loudly. "Keep safe, and see you soon." He forced himself to pull in energy and stepped through the Floo.

It was already too loud when Harry arrived, although no one noticed he was there for a minute, and then Ginny saw him as she was passing through the room. She tripped in surprise and fell on the floor.

"Bloody hell," Ginny grumbled as she pulled herself to her feet. "Harriet, give a girl some warning next time, won't you?"

Harry couldn't entirely hold back a laugh. "You're not hurt, are you?" He said with a grin.

Ginny gave him a glare. "Happy birthday, Harriet," she said and stuck out her tongue. Then she smiled. "C'mon then, everyone else is outside."

It was already fairly crowded on the Weasleys' lawn, with a few tables to the side and quite a few people milling about. Parvati was jabbering to an enraptured Susan, while a bored looking Hannah Abbott stood nearby, her eyes in another direction. Neville (a pained look on his face) was listening to Ernie Macmillan pontificate on something, but Lavender seemed to be a bit more fascinated. And of course, Hermione was speaking loud enough to nearly be heard over the din to her Ravenclaws, with the rarely seen Justin Finch-Fletchley trying to follow along with clear difficulty.

"Surprise!" Ron's face popped into view and Harry jumped back in alarm.

As Ron began to laugh uncontrollably, Harry brushed off his clothes instinctively and rolled his eyes. "Git," said Harry. "It's not a surprise party."

"It would be a surprise if Ronald didn't make a terrible joke," said Luna, walking over with her father. "Hullo, Hrrprr and happy birthday! Did you care for my little jest?" And then she laughed a bit too loudly. "I enjoyed it."

"It wasn't bad at all," said Harry with a grin. "Nice to see you too. And you as well, Mr. Lovegood."

Mr. Lovegood frowned and crossed his arms. "Is it true you were nearly kidnapped by a rogue pack of Unglistening Petriprats?"

"I... not that I know of," said Harry with a sigh. "But who knows what rumours are going around anyway?"

"Harriet!" Parvati ran over and pulled him into a hug. "Happy birthday! It's quite a turnout, isn't it? Thankfully most of the parents aren't here, that'd be a drag, wouldn't it?"

"Yes, to both of those questions," said Harry. "Which parents are here?"

"Well, all of the Weasleys are here, of course," said Parvati and she gestured to the house. "They're both in there, getting things ready. Um, and of course, Luna's dad is here."

Mr. Lovegood was still standing there next to his daughter, still with arms crossed. "Unusually quiet," he said. "I suspect several Dampening Derwyddons around."

Luna nodded happily in agreement. "Isn't it marvelous my father is here, Hrrprr?"

"Yeah, well, the more the merrier," said Harry without meaning it. "Are your parents here, Parvati?"

"Thank Merlin, no," she said with a sigh of relief. "I think they were worried Anthony's parents would be here too. And thankfully his parents had the same sort of worry, so they didn't come either."

"Oh, I didn't know there was any acrimony between those families," said Luna. "Is it some sort of Ravenclaw graduate thing?"

"You needn't worry about it, Luna," said Mr. Lovegood with a sniff. "Those people were never the most social bunch."

"Unlike us," Luna said smiling at him.

"Precisely!" Mr. Lovegood said, pointing his finger straight up. "I am glad you understand."

"Right... well... anyway." Parvati grabbed Harry's arm. "Let's go make the rounds."

"It'll be fine," said Ron with a laugh. "I can tell from your face you aren't looking forward to it."

"That's just how my face looks," said Harry, trying to smile.

Ron and Parvati laughed.

"Sure, Harriet," said Ron with a waggle of his eyebrows. "But my parents should be out any moment, and I know the twins are planning something stupid. So let's have fun, alright?"

"Fair enough," said Harry, and he allowed Parvati to pull him around, hearing "Happy birthday" from each person in turn, making polite conversation for a little while.

After a few more minutes of accepting birthday congratulations and handshakes, with a few hints of presents tossed in, Arthur and Molly Weasley finally emerged from their house, Molly floating out an enormous birthday cake while Arthur held the door for her. She brought it carefully over to the table and looked around with a frown.

"Now, where are those two troublemakers... oh, Harriet, dear, you're here! Arthur, have you seen them?"

"Ah, no, Molly, I haven't," said Mr. Weasley as he walked over to Harry with a large smile on his face. "Harriet, a real honour to host your celebration here," he said with an outstretched hand.

Harry grinned and shook Arthur's hand. "I appreciate it, of course. And please let me know if there's anything I can do-"

Arthur held up a hand to interrupt. "Nothing doing, my dear." He then leaned forward a bit and lowered his voice. "Molly would never permit it." He then straightened and looked around the crowd. "We haven't had this many people at the Burrow in ages. It's nice, honestly."

"So where are the twins anyway?"

"What?" Arthur frowned and his gaze flickered back at the house. "They're not out here? I hope they're not planning anything dangerous. Maybe I'd better have a word with them."

"Actually, sir, Professor Dumbledore did mention that he preferred more adults present while I'm here," said Harry.

"Oh, did he? Ah, well, he knows best, and I suppose it does make sense. Percy!" Arthur waved his son over, who had been sitting on a chair scribbling on parchment. "Percy, would you mind checking on the twins? It's just about time to have cake."

Percy didn't look pleased about it, but he nodded and went to fetch his brothers.

"And Harriet," said Arthur with a bit of a wink. "No need to call me 'sir'. Not your professor, after all, right?"

"If you say so... Mr. Weasley," said Harry with a grin.

Ron walked over to them, looking a bit nervous. "Hey, Harriet, my dad hasn't said anything embarrassing, has he?"

"Ron, it's not like I'm your mother," said Arthur with a laugh, although he then quickly looked around in the direction of his wife, whose back was turned and seemed unlikely to have heard them. "I'm sure I haven't said anything too bad," said Arthur after a moment.

"Oh, nothing I didn't already know," said Harry with a sly grin. "You know me, Ron."

Ron shook his head. "Always dangerous to get into this sort of conversation with you, I never end up ahead."

"Alright, is everyone here?" Mrs. Weasley looked around. "I think it's time to serve the cake."

"Brilliant!" Ron grinned. "That's why I'm here."

"Don't worry, Mr. Weasley," said Harriet to Arthur. "Everyone knows that food only short circuits Ron's mind."

"Oh? Is that some Muggle reference? I don't recognize it." Arthur now had quite an excited look on his face. "What does it mean, a 'shorted cricket'?"

"Uh, it's not a big deal," said Harry, a little annoyed at his mistake. "I just meant when food is around, Ron doesn't think about anything else."

"Not entirely fair," grumbled Ron. "People love their little jokes about it."

Percy emerged from the Burrow with a pained look on his face, the twins walking behind with identical, overly pleased grins.

"Took you long enough!" Ron shouted, and everyone turned to look at him. "Um, heh heh, time for cake, right? Just did that to get everyone's attention."

"Well, I don't know," said Molly with a frown. "But either way, Ron is quite right. Everyone, queue up for a slice, and then we'll do presents."

Ron ran over quickly to get ahead of the crowd, and Molly seemed simultaneously amused and annoyed, but she waved her wand, causing a small slice to separate and float onto a plate.

"Mum, that's barely enough for a gnome!"

"Come back after everyone else has one and we'll see if there's any left. You should've let Harriet have one first after all." At this, Molly smiled and waved at Harriet, floating over a slice of cake.

Harry happily plucked it from the air. "So... I guess we're not doing the song then? Not that it's something I care too highly about."

"A song, you say," Arthur asked excitedly. "Another Muggle tradition?"

"Um, yeah, I suppose it is," said Harry. "Maybe you can ask Hermione about where it comes from, I don't know the specifics."

"An excellent idea, Harriet!" Arthur made a motion like tipping an imaginary hat and went off to seek Hermione.

Harry sighed and took a bite of the cake, which was light, fluffy, and delicious. So that was something.

Parvati walked over to him holding her own slice of cake. "So was Ron's dad pestering you?" Parvati asked. "You had one of your 'looks'."

"Oh did I? I hope he wasn't offended."

"I doubt it, he seems pretty happy, see!" She pointed over to where Arthur and Hermione were talking and they did seem to be having an engaging conversation.

"Well, he was asking about birthdays from the Muggle world. I'm hardly an expert on Muggle traditions, I just grew up among them," said Harry, finishing off his cake. "Better to get his answers from someone who might know."

"Is there some sort of birthday Muggle tradition you'd like us to do?"

Harry shook his head. "No, nothing like that. You already know I never really had much in the way of birthday parties at my relatives, so I'd rather just see how wizards do it."

"I think it varies for different families," said Parvati in a thoughtful tone. "Ours were unusual because it was always the two of us, and we had such different personalities even when we were little kids. I wanted faerie lights everywhere and piles of presents of all sorts in fun wrapping, while Padma just wanted her presents without any fuss, unwrapped, and always books."

"So some things haven't changed."

Parvati snickered. "True. I think I first met Lavender at our third birthday, although I don't really remember it. Anthony too, I expect, although he and Padma were two wings of a phoenix, always off reading their books. It was mostly local children of ages near ours, no Muggles, of course, although they lived on the same street."

"But nothing particularly magical?"

"I suppose not," said Parvati after a moment of consideration. "Maybe it was different at the Sacred Twenty-Eight and their ilk. We weren't part of that lot, and I know the Potters weren't either, so maybe those pure-blood families had mad, bizarre rituals."

"I mean..." Harry paused, almost willing to forget about it, but he realized he was a bit curious. "Do we know anyone in the sacred twenty-something?"

"I don't believe for a moment you've forgotten it's twenty-eight," said Parvati and she clucked her tongue. "But yeah, we do. Neville is one, as is Ernie, and of course, the Weasleys. But the Weasleys never really were like typical pure-blood families. Oi there, Neville, Ernie!"

The two boys seemed surprised at Parvati's call, but they walked over.

"Parvati, whatever seems to be the problem?" Ernie asked with a wide smile. "Something the matter with the festivities?"

Neville rolled his eyes and said, "I'm sure you're dead on, Macmillan."

"Harriet and I were talking about birthday celebrations, and we were wondering about how the Sacred Twenty-Eight do that sort of thing."

"Oh, well, I never liked those birthday rituals," said Neville, looking a bit uncomfortable. "That's typically when they test your magic, try to make you reveal yourself."

"Yes, mostly family and such," Ernie said, with a pleased look, clearly happy to explain. "Not really much in the way of friends, to be honest. They tried to scare me into doing magic on my fifth birthday, and I caused a fire to be blown out. Quite thrilling, really, my parents were very proud."

Parvati grimaced. "Well, that's..." She glanced at Neville, who shook his head slightly. "That's bully for you, Ernie. We didn't do that sort of thing at our parties, but I think we were showing off accidental magic when we were only two."

"Ah, well," said Ernie and he shrugged. "Twins often more magically advanced like that, aren't they? Not much of a surprise."

"Is that true?" Harry asked Parvati.

"I mean... yes, for the most part, I think so," she said. "But I don't know any specifics about it. I think there is something about twins with magic bouncing off each other in some way."

"Harriet Potter!" It was Fred, holding a large wrapped box. "Georgie and I spent some fun time on this little surprise for you."

"Should I be worried?" Harry asked in amusement.

"Only for your enemies," said Fred with a wink and handed the gift over. We advise you to open it in private, but we definitely think you'll be chuffed. There's a note in there that should explain things."

"Weasley, if you're playing some sort of prank, Merlin help you," said Parvati, hands on her hips.

"Patil, Harriet here helped save our sister," said Fred chidingly. "This is more of something of a small payment for that."

"I'll open it later," Harry told them and then added to Parvati. "Not to worry, Dobby will keep an eye on things just in case."

After that, it provided an opening to get an avalanche of gifts from everyone else. Ron had some assorted candy and a Chudley Cannons poster, Hannah also had wrapped up candy, albeit in a far nicer manner, while Lavender gave a fairly decent-looking hat that seemed like it could fit for a witch or a wizard. Hermione and her Ravenclaws each had a book (Hermione's was the most likely to be read, with the intriguing title of 'Most Interesting Witches'), while Luna (the Ravenclaw that knew Harry best) had a lovely picture of a blurry "Harry" in midair with a snitch that she had painted herself. Justin's gift was a year's subscription to "International Quidditch Monthly", which Harry didn't even realize was a thing and thus thanked Justin quite sincerely.

Ginny had somehow gotten a poster of the Holyhead Harpies signed by everyone on the team.

"Gin, that's quite a gift," said George in an awed voice. "How'd you manage that?"

"They're my favorite team, as you know," Ginny said to Harry, ignoring the question. "I didn't really have any money for a gift, but I needed to get you something."

"It's grand," said Harry with a wide smile. "I hope you don't mind if I put it next to Ron's Cannons and have them fight it out." This got a laugh all around.

Ernie handed over a very fancy set of quills that he seemed very pleased about, and Susan had given a little animated dragon figurine that actually flew, bright in Hufflepuff yellow and black stripes. Percy gave a less fancy set of quills with a bit of mild embarrassment, but Harry thanked him all the same, hoping to smooth some of the awkwardness. And Neville had given a very unusual looking book, with engraved edges and a shiny, slightly glowing cover.

"It's an empty grimoire," said Neville with a pink face. "Don't let someone else use it first." He pointed at an etched line across the cover of the book. "That's where you write your name."

"Neville!" Susan gasped. "That's a beautiful gift!"

"Now mine look stupid," said Lavender, handing over a nice set of earrings.

"Uh, hardly. Thanks, Lavender," Harry told her, hoping she would forget about it and not be offended when he never wore them.

"I got you something too," said Parvati with a big smile. "But it's actually more a present for Hedwig. I have it reserved at Eeylops when we go to Diagon."

"So... a surprise is it?" Harry asked with a laugh.

"Maybe." Parvati gave a dramatic little shrug and winked. "I rather suspect you'll like it."

"Arthur and I got you something as well," said Molly and she gave him a flat box decorated with a bow that was in the shape of a bundle of roses.

"Mrs. Weasley, really... you shouldn't have, you were already nice enough to host everyone here."

Mrs. Wealsey shook her head. "Oh, dear, it's nothing at all, just a jumper. Sort of a family tradition."

"Perhaps you've noticed me wearing one with 'R' on it around the fire," Ron said with a grin. "They are pretty comfortable."

Realizing that protesting any further would be pointless, Harry nodded and thanked Molly again. He looked over at the pile of presents - it was not exactly Dudley levels of excess, but it would be difficult to carry all on his own.

"Do you need help with your gifts?" Parvati asked with a knowing look. "Perhaps an extra wand?"

Harry considered the idea but then shook his head. "No, I don't think so, I'll just ask Dobby to help, I think he can do that sort of thing. I assume no one minds?"

People simply shook their heads or shrugged in response. Ernie's face brightened, and he said, "Ah, is this the infamous House-Elf that helped save Ginny Weasley?"

"Yes," said Ginny, glaring at the Hufflepuff. "Mister Dobbly."

Parvati frowned at Ginny's incorrect pronunciation. With that and Arthur's odd way of repeating 'short crickets', Harry wondered if it was perhaps a Weasley thing.

"So don't you pester him, Ernie Macmillan!" Ginny pointed her finger at Ernie, almost trembling.

"Keep your hair on!" Ernie put his hands in a conciliatory fashion. "I was simply curious, that's all."

Harry checked his watch. It was getting a bit close to sundown, and Harry didn't really want to wait around just in case the Headmaster showed up. It was doubtful Dumbledore had any new information since the morning, anyhow.

"Dobby!" Harry called out, and after a moment, the House-Elf appeared.

"What does Harriet Potter need?" Dobby asked with a bow.

Ginny increased the level of her glare to Ernie and then looked around to the rest of the crowd in a clear warning.

"Dobby, great to see you," said Lavender warmly. "Isn't it lovely that all of Harriet's friends showed up for her birthday party?"

Dobby looked at Harry and then nodded. "Yes, Dobby knows Harriet Potter is a great witch, she has many friends and followers."

Ron snorted. "Which are which, I wonder."

"Ron!" Molly hissed at him. "Don't start!"

"Dobby, do you think you can help me bring these gift boxes back to the house?" Harry gestured to get Dobby's attention, as the House-Elf seemed to be caught looking at nothing. "Bit too much to carry alone, right?"

"Ah, Dobby will bring them," said the House-Elf, but he wasn't meeting Harry's eyes, instead looking straight at the ground. He snapped his fingers and the presents were gone. "Dobby will see Harriet Potter back at her home." Dobby then snapped his fingers again and vanished.

"That was odd," said Harry. "Did he seem a bit distracted to you?"

"Yes," said Luna and Neville, while several others said "No" or shrugged their shoulders.

"Well, he did to me." Harry frowned and thought for a moment. "I had better check on him, and I know it's getting a bit late anyhow."

"You don't have to leave," said Parvati. "But if you're sure."

"Well, I'll be seeing most of you at Diagon in a week or so anyhow," said Harry brightly. "So no need to worry all that much about me."

Parvati frowned and crossed her arms.

"Just don't forget us," said Lavender and she walked over to give Harry a hug. "I know it can be lonely with just Dobby."

Naturally, this started a small avalanche of hugs and handshakes, as everyone else proceeded to wish Harry a final happy birthday and excellent etcetera.

"Again, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, thanks so much for your help," said Harry. "It really meant a lot to me."

After Harry got back to Godric's Hollow, he tracked down Dobby, who was hiding in a random room for some reason.

"Alright, Dobby," said Harry with a bit of a raised volume, since the House-Elf still wasn't looking at him. "What's the matter?"

Dobby wrung his hands and his eyes started to tear up. "Dobby is sorry, miss! There was someones that tried to break into Harriet Potter's house again."

"They... while I was at the party?"

"Yes, miss," said Dobby with a nod. "Dobby is so sorry!"

"Dobby, why should you be sorry? They didn't manage to break in, right?"

"No, they didn't," said Dobby and wiped his eyes with his sleeve. "But Dobby wasn't able to catch them. He failed Harriet Potter!"

Harry sighed, finally understanding. "Dobby, you can't do everything. The important thing is that you kept me and the house safe. Don't endanger yourself trying to capture some bad wizard. Does Dumbledore know about it?"

Dobby nodded. "He says there is nothing to worry about, but Dobby still feels guilty. He says that since there was no trouble, Dobby should not say anything to worry you at the party."

"Oh, Dobby." Harry rubbed his temples. "Listen, you did what you needed to do. I still need your help for the rest of the summer, can I still count on you?" Harry realized he was being a touch manipulative, but sometimes it felt like that was the only way to get through to Dobby.

It took a moment, but then Dobby nodded wildly. "Yes, Harriet Potter can still trust Dobby. She is a great witch, she saved Ginny Wazlib and defeated the Dark Lady her first year! Dobby will do better next time, he promises!"

Harry bit back an annoyed response and nodded. "Glad to hear it, Dobby. Just don't endanger yourself, okay?"

Dobby grinned with a nod. "Does Harriet Potter want to see her presents?"

"Yeah, okay," said Harry. The idea of returning to Hogwarts seemed better any day now.

The day of the Diagon Alley excursion, Harry awoke feeling more refreshed than usual. The scent of a delightful breakfast (likely full English from the aroma) wafted in his bedroom, and Harry felt abnormally pleased. He had opened all of his presents, except for the one from Fred & George, which was a small box within a box within yet another smaller box. That final very slim box had a note that said "Find us on the Express" before opening it, so Harry had managed, with difficulty, to follow the instructions.

As Harry sat down to a heaping pile of salty, delicious breakfast, he was unable to stop himself from digging in immediately.

"Ah, good morning," said Harry in satisfaction. "Dobby, fancy a trip to Diagon Alley today?"

"Dobby thinks he needs to stay here," said Dobby, his ears drooping. "Professor Dumbledore says so."

"Hmm, well, okay, if you insist. I'll get you something fun."

"Dobby does not need anything!" Dobby insisted. "He has more than he needs already."

"It's my surprise to you," said Harry pleasantly. "I think you'll like it."

Dobby frowned but nodded. "If Harriet Potter promises not to ask to cook dinner again, Dobby will allow a gift."

"Dobby, you're too good a cook, so no worries!" Harry said with a laugh. "I think today is really going to be good, clean fun for a change."

After getting cleaned up and ready to go, Harry tossed a bit of Floo powder in the fire, causing the normal green flames, which seemed a bit less horrifying than normal for some reason.

"This day shall be fun," said Harry to himself, willing it to be so, and called out 'Diagon Alley', hoping he wasn't forgetting something. Worst came to worst, Harry considered as he walked through the fire, he knew there'd be a great new ice cream flavour to try.

End of Chapter Twenty-Two

Next Time, the summer ends and it's back to Hogwarts.

"Wait, sir, are you saying..." Harry stopped, unable to keep going.

Dumbledore beamed and nodded. "Precisely! Of course, if you are not careful, the universe might be erased, but what is life without a little risk?"

Post-Note: There may be a question on the subject of the parents of Susan Bones (I believe that sentence was as awkward as I could manage, don't you?). In the books, Susan's parents are never mentioned, only her Aunt Amelia and Uncle Edgar Bones. Amelia is killed by Voldemort near the end of the story and Edgar dies before the story begins, but of her parents, we know almost nothing. From the classic "Harry Potter and Me" documentary we know that Susan Bones was originally planned to be a half-blood - although we also know that half-blood might mean Muggleborn/Pureblood like Harry or Muggle/Pureblood like Snape.

We also can assume that Mr. Bones is Pureblood because Amelia clearly is and they are siblings. Whether Mr. and Mrs. Bones are alive or dead is never said one way or another, and I have seen most of the time in stories that they are dead. But... in Book Five, Chapter 25, Susan mentions that her uncle, aunt, and cousins died in the first war and "she now had a good idea what it felt like to be Harry". Seems to imply that her parents are not dead, because otherwise she'd have mentioned them. But anyway, why simply add tragedy for no reason? More interesting to me, I think, is a Susan Bones with a smaller family than expected.

Anyway... it feels like a difficult time to be a part of the HP fandom these days, but I cannot pretend or wish away the impact the books or the fandom had on me. I think that writing fanfiction, many times to subvert the books, can be a way to use the lessons and connections of the books without being beholden to the author or contributing monetarily. For almost as long as fanfiction for HP has existed, people have tried to do something different than what we got in the books. It was not technically the books that inspired me to write fanfiction about them, but other HP fanfiction I found one million years ago (again, please do not read my very old fanfiction on my profile - I keep it up for 'posterity's sake' but most of it is terrible, the awful attempts of the very young).

Technically speaking, fanfiction is nearly as old as fiction itself, but the modern concept of it really caught fire in the 70's with "fanzines" about the original series of Star Trek. If you're thinking that both the terms "Mary Sue" and "slash" came from here, you are right. Spock/Kirk pairings were fairly popular back then, so it's really nothing new to pair "canonically" straight people together in a non-straight relationship. But fandoms evolve, and things change. Nowadays "Mary Sue" is a catchall term for a character you just don't like for any reason, although often because they are female.

I started in the beginning writing pretty awful anime fanfiction, because I went through that sort of phase back then, and I had read some stuff about the (even then pretty dated) series Ranma ½ that really inspired me to try (I had always been a sort of writer, even from a young age - even wrote a sci-fi little story mishmash of ideas called 'Inside the Moon' when I was six years old). But as the anime scene for Ranma faded and newer ones came on the scene that weren't as interesting to me, I saw HP fanfiction on the rise as the books became more and more popular. It was after GoF that I was completely invested in the world and I was all over the Internet looking for like minded mad fans.

Man, my first HP fanfic stories were utter trainwrecks. But even then I was finding cliche and patterns as the fandom exploded in popularity, so I wrote a pretty silly takedown story of some of them. It fizzled out, so then I tried my hand at a weird epic drama with "The Ten Plagues". After that, I realized my real forte was in humor dipped with unexpected drama. I still have my copies of the books, but at this point, I can't throw them away - even if I can't imagine buying another one as things stand.

So TL;DR? I will keep at this story and stick with the fandom, which feels like a different world anyway, and keep references to the author out of my ongoing work. I hope you feel comfortable staying with me, but if you don't, I truly do understand. Thanks for reading my rambling and barely coherent thoughts.

-J