Author's Note: Thank you for all of the support and reviews I've received from this story so far. Just a heads up that the next chapter is halfway written, but probably won't be posted until next month. My work schedule is crazy and monthly updates will more than likely become the norm. Have no fear, it will NEVER be abandoned. I just wanted to take a moment to address some concerns a few of you showed in reviews regarding the relationship between Harry and Ginny being too mature. Their relationship is challenging to write because a balance needs to be established. That being said, take a look at their lives up until the point of bonding. They are not normal almost 10 and 11 year olds. They have had a hard time (especially Harry) and had to grow up quicker. Girls have a tendency to mature faster than boys, and between their pasts and the bonding which allowed for an instant comfort level with each other, I don't think the way they are written is too far off. Harry has basically raised himself, and Ginny was given a lot of responsibilities from her mother with household chores and picking up after her brothers to learn her rightful place in society. I realize I'm treading a thin line though, and I'm trying to write it as realistic as possible. Please feel free to let me know your feelings on it by messaging me or leaving it in a review. Special thanks goes to Arnel and Spenser Hemmingway for betaing (is that even a word…lol) this chapter. As always read, review, and above all enjoy!

Disclaimer: This is JK's world, I just like to dabble in it.

Chapter 5

Fred quietly stood up and gently lifted the cover up off the loo counter, silently handing it off to his twin. George was kneeling beside the wall and carefully fitted the cover back in place over the opening. They had spent the last half hour lying on their stomachs at optimum listening level to the hidden hole in the wall.

This was their best-kept secret. The hole was directly above the parlour and with the cover removed, would allow conversations to be clearly heard with ease from their hiding spot in the loo. Fred had made the wondrous discovery while he was on his hands and knees cleaning the floor in the loo as punishment for their latest prank, when he heard his mother's raised but muffled voice through the wall. Carefully removing the cover from its position, he discovered a hole in the wall, and his mum's voice cleared in tone and pitch.

All of the Weasley children knew that the most important and interesting conversations between their parents occurred in one of two places, either their bedroom or the parlour. With seven children it was vital to be well informed and have something on everyone else as a matter of survival. The twins took espionage to a whole new level and most of their siblings left them to their own devices for fear of the retribution Fred and George would level at them. However, their eavesdropping techniques had to become more creative as the years went on. Their father was careful and always warded the room with well-placed Silencing Charms. So far, he neglected to place them on the ceiling, which benefitted Fred and George nicely.

George silently opened the loo door a crack and checked the landing to ensure it was clear. He gave Fred a thumbs up and opened the door completely. They casually made their way to their bedroom and closed the door firmly behind them. Fred sent a Locking Charm at the door, while George threw up the Silencing Charms.

They had discovered during the summer after first year that the Ministry was unable to track underage magic in their household. It seems that there was no way for them to differentiate between magic cast by children and their parents in magical homes. The twins had yet to receive a single warning in regards to underage magic, and as long as they were careful and kept out of sight from their mother, no one was likely to find out.

Fred flopped backwards onto his bed and George sat down on his own with his back reclining against the wall as he faced his brother.

George closed his eyes for a moment and opened them again as he released a deep breath. "Well, that was certainly enlightening, Fred. What are we going to do?"

Fred raised the arm he had lying across his face and turned towards George. "That, Forge, is the million Galleon question," he stated and then drew silent to ponder the question.

George snorted and shook his head. "I can't believe Mum swallowed that dragon dung. What do you suppose is Dumbledore's interest in young Harry?"

"He's the bleeding Boy Who Lived!"

"Aye, true. And Dumbledore is powerful. Maybe he wants to control Potter. Use him, ya know?"

"Possible…I mean the man can certainly enjoy a prank, but I can't believe the rubbish he was spouting."

"Do you reckon Dad's going to bend to his and Mum's will, Freddie?"

"I'm not sure. Dad's kind of a wild card in all this."

"Mum, is definitely going to do whatever Dumbledore suggests, especially if he keeps telling her it'll be in Ginny's best interests or some such tripe."

"No argument here. But George, the part of the conversation that is plaguing me is Dumbledore's explanation to their supposed Soul Bond. I mean, does he really not believe they exist?"

"Merlin, you're right! I can't figure that one out. Does he know they're real and is just determined to break it, or is he really just so arrogant that he feels he's all knowledgeable and since he's never seen one first hand, believes that they can't possibly exist."

Fred groaned and rolled over onto his side, a serious expression marring his face. "Ginny needs to know what's going on."

"Too right! We may not know much about Soul Bonds, or any specifics for that matter, but…"

"…Separating them can't be a good idea."

"Nay, it might not even be possible."

"So, George, how do you think we should go about contacting our littlest sister?"

George smirked and quirked an eyebrow. "Well, I'm sure you're already thinking what I'm thinking, my devious twin."

"Devious, brother, really? Well I'll see your devious and raise you ingenious."

The twins grinned at each other and then simultaneously stated, "Gringotts."

"They seem to be the only ones that know what's going on,"

"Any Harry is sure to have an account for his inheritance and all."

"Leaving a letter with them,"

"Is the safest way to make sure Ginny and Harry will get it."

Fred got up and walked over to the old double desk located in the corner of their room. He grabbed a piece of parchment, ink, and quill and brought them over to George.

While George wrote out a quick letter, Fred contemplated the most reliable way to send it to Gringotts. Errol, the family owl was definitely out, as he was incredibly old and unreliable. There was no guarantee the letter would ever arrive at Gringotts, and this subject material was way too sensitive to chance it.

George was just finishing the letter and noticed his brother pacing. "We're going to have to go to Diagon Alley ourselves and speak to goblins personally. Right now we don't even know if they'd be willing to help."

"True, it's just going to be tricky since Mum isn't going to want us out of her sight, and she's likely to go round the twist if we ask."

"Then we won't ask. Fred, you Floo out tomorrow morning and take care of it. I'll provide the distraction."

"Knowing you as I do, Georgie old boy, she won't even notice I'm gone."

"That's the plan, brother mine."

HGHGHGHGHG

"Mr Potter…"

"Please Griphook, just call us Harry and Ginny," Harry said while Ginny nodded beside him in agreement.

"As you wish. We have a lot to discuss Harry, but if you'll permit me to say, I suggest that we start our discussion with your properties. As stated in your parents' Will, all properties were transferred to you with the exception of Marauder Cabin, which was transferred to Sirius Black. Here is a list of your properties."

Griphook slid the parchment across his desk and Harry's eyes bulged open when he saw the vast number it contained.

"The…These are all mine?" Harry asked in an awed voice.

Merlin, Harry! What are you going to do with all those?

No idea, Gin. There's like over a dozen places on here!

"If you'll notice the four properties that are starred, Harry, they are on this continent. The rest are either commercial properties, or residences in other continents."

"Where is Potter Manor located?" Ginny asked.

"It is in Scotland. Here is the Manor file."

Ginny gratefully accepted the file and upon opening it, gasped at the beautiful manor promptly displayed in the photo before her.

Oh, Harry! You'll never have to go back to the Durlseys' again. Look at the manor you could live in, it's beautiful.

Would you like to live there, Gin?

Of course! But it's huge and we really don't need all of that space right now.

True, but I still want to go see it.

Then tell Griphook and ask him about the Manor's security.

"Griphook, do you have any information about the Manor's security?"

"Yes, Harry. It is some of the highest security features available when activated and used to their full potential. It is Unplottable, which makes it incredibly difficult to find unless you know where it is. The Floo network is limited and based on selected permission granted by the Head of House on the approved Floo List, and allows them to come through into a secured room. Permission needs to be granted again in order for visitors to be allowed to enter the main house from the secured room. The same can be said for Apparating and even that is only in designated areas.

"The Manor is protected by Goblin Wards. They are the best available, and only Portkeys setup by us to coincide with the Wards, will work in the Manor or on the grounds. The only thing lacking on the property is a Fidelius Charm, which until a few years ago we were unable to place on a property that size. That problem is now rectified and the Charm is highly recommended in cases of high security risks and with those that want to maintain privacy or stay hidden. They are also incredibly expensive and for that reason very few are ever performed."

"Would it be possible for us to see the Manor, Griphook?" Ginny asked.

"Of course. May I suggest visiting the other three properties as well and then making a decision?"

"That would be great. When would we be able to go?" Harry eagerly questioned.

"Right now. I have Portkeys for the four properties and we can leave immediately."

"Wow. Um, ok." Harry stood up and then pulled Ginny up beside him. "What do we have to do?"

"You both need to touch this key and I'll speak the password."

Harry nervously reached out and touched the key. Ginny leaned up and kissed his cheek. She squeezed his hand and then reached out with her free one to touch the key too.

When all three were touching it, Griphook spoke, "Potter Manor."

HGHGHGHGHG

Harry and Ginny found themselves tangled together in a heap on the floor of the Manor when they reappeared. Griphook gave them a toothy grin and helped them both to their feet.

Their mouths hung open in shock as they slowly spun around in one place taking in every visible inch of the room.

Wow…

Yeah, this place is amazing.

"Your family owns several house-elves, Harry. Unfortunately, their lives and magic is dependant on the wizards they serve. They are proudly bound to the House of Potter, but had to find others to serve while they waited for you to take your rightful place. Some went to Hogwarts and others came to work for us at Gringotts. Once you have established a residence I can help you notify them of your return. They will happily return to serve you both."

Harry and Ginny went off on their own to explore the house before meeting back up with Griphook in the sitting room.

"Thank you, Griphook. We are ready to see the next place."

Griphook simply nodded his head at Harry's statement and pulled out the next Portkey. When all three were touching it, he called out, "Prongs' Pad."

Harry picked himself up off the ground and grumbled under his breath, "I'm never going to get used to Portkeys," as Ginny giggled at him and pulled him in for a quick hug.

You're doing just fine, Harry. This is the first time I didn't fall; don't worry you'll get it.

You sure?

Yeah. I mean, I think we're going to be using Portkeys to get around for a while, so you're probably going to get lots of practice.

Harry grinned at her and wrapped his left arm over her shoulder and pulled her in close to his side. Ginny reciprocated by wrapping her right arm around his back and waist, snuggling in close.

"Where is Prong's Pad located, Griphook?" he questioned.

"It is in Muggle London. As you can see it is a small flat, just two bedrooms, a kitchen, one loo, and a small living space. Your father purchased it when he turned seventeen and came of age."

"Did my mum and dad live here?"

"I don't believe so, Harry, but I'm really not sure. Sorry."

"Oh, it's okay. You've been able to tell me so much already. Thank you."

After exploring the flat for ten minutes, they decided to take the Portkey to their next destination, 'Lily's Place'.

Another rough landing later, Griphook was explaining that the single bedroom flat was in Paris. Apparently, his father had purchased it for his mum as a wedding gift so she'd have somewhere to stay when she wanted to go shopping or just visit.

Once they had taken a brief tour, they decided that although it would be perfect to use for a holiday, it wouldn't really work as an everyday home.

The last Portkey dropped them off at Harry's Haven. It was absolutely gorgeous. Located in Greece, it was an isolated home with a private beach right on the water.

Ginny squealed in delight and took off running across the beach towards the house with Harry hot on her tail. Just before she reached the porch Harry tackled her to the ground, and Griphook could hear them laughing hysterically as they wrestled and tickled each other in the sand.

Finally righting themselves, they continued to snigger and smile as they followed Griphook inside. The house was much smaller than the Manor, but still had half a dozen bedrooms, two main loos, and an ensuite attached to the master bedroom. The living area was light and spacious with huge glass windows and sliding glass doors, providing large amounts of natural light.

While Harry was looking out the window, he noticed another building approximately 20 yards away from the main house. With his curiosity peaked, he decided to ask Griphook.

"Griphook, is that building also on the property?"

"Indeed it is. Your father purchased this place for you on 26 October 1981. He contracted Gringotts to provide the best Wards available and to also find a contractor to build the extra building. It is set up as a training facility."

Ginny re-entered the room upon completing her inspection of the kitchen and took Harry's hand pulling him towards the door. "Let's check it out, Harry."

Harry agreed and the two walked over and entered the training facility. It was impressive and possessed a mixture of Muggle and Magical training practices. The back area consisted of Muggle exercise equipment, weight machines, free weights, and mats for floor exercises. Along the left wall, various weapons and sparring equipment were hung with care and led to a boxing ring. Directly across from it was a specially warded magical duelling area, which wouldn't allow stray spells to cross the boundaries. A doorway partway along the right wall led to a steam room, yoga room and mediation area.

My dad thought of everything! This place is great.

I don't know what most of it is for except for the little bit I can understand from your memories.

Well, neither do I exactly, but we'll figure it out together.

Why do you think he included a meditation room?

My primary school teacher said that meditation can help keep the mind healthy and provide a way to control anger and other strong emotions.

Really? Guess I'll have to try it. Maybe it'll help with my temper.

So…what do you think? I think this is where we should live.

Oh, Harry, I love it here! I agree, but it would be nice to be able to access the other places in case we ever needed anything in London, Paris and Scotland.

Didn't Griphook say something about Gringotts being able to supply multiple-destination Portkeys based on passwords?

I think so, guess we had better double check with him.

"Griphook? We've decided to make Harry's Haven our home for the time being. I would like to make sure the best Wards money can buy are applied to all four residences including the Fidelius Charm."

When Griphook nodded in understanding Harry continued, "Is it possible to have a multiple-destination Portkey made connecting all four residences and using the names as the passwords to activate it?"

"Of course, Harry. It will all be done as requested. Let us return to Gringotts where I can made arrangements and then conclude our business for the evening."

HGHGHGHGHG

"Harry, if it is okay with you and Ginny, I would like to send a copy of your portfolio account statements and a listing of your investments home with you to peruse at your leisure. We can set-up a follow up meeting at a later time for me to answer any of your questions, but I really do need to make warding arrangements for the properties immediately."

"That would be fine, Griphook. Is it possible to have my owl and school supplies brought to Gringotts or taken directly to Harry's Haven from Hogwarts?"

"Of course, Harry. That is no trouble at all. I'll ensure it is seen to directly."

Griphook stood up and fumbled in a folder for a moment more before drawing out three envelopes. "Before I leave to make arrangements, here are the two letters mentioned in your parents' Will, and a third left in trust to me from your Godfather."

Griphook walked around the desk and placed them in front of Harry. "I'll take my leave now. See you both shortly."

Harry's hand shook as he gently picked up the top envelope. His emotions were threatening to burst, and only the calming sensations from Ginny and her small hand rubbing soothing circles on his back, allowed him to gain some semblance of control. He carefully broke the seal and eased the precious letter free. Taking a deep breath, he unfolded it and felt his eyes tearing up as he read how it was addressed.

15 October 1981

To My Beautiful Harry,

These letters were my idea, but I still don't have any idea how to start. The thought of not being there to watch as you grow and share your life both saddens and terrifies me. However, the world is in a state of war and the future is uncertain. Your father and I love you so very much, Harry, and we are going to do everything in our power to make sure you grow up safe and happy, even if that means we don't get to be a part of it. Sirius and Remus will make sure you are cared for, and I will just have to hope that you have inherited enough of my traits to help balance out all of the Marauder influence on you.

There is so much I wish to tell you, far too much to possibly fit in a single letter. How can I even begin to explain how much you mean to me? There simply aren't words. I love you more than anything in this world. You are the best thing to ever happen to me, my son. You've brought me more joy and wonder since you've entered my life than all the previous years combined. I love that you look so much like your dad, and have my eyes. Your dad has a look of such pride in his eyes as he watches you fly around on the training broom Sirius bought for your first birthday. Your face lights up with such enjoyment when you fly. You definitely get that from your father. You already seem to have such control over your magic especially in Summoning what you want, and I can't wait to see what you achieve in your life. You are going to be exceptional, if for no other reason than you are my son. Your dad and I are putting the journals we began to write during seventh year and beyond, inside the Family Vault. I hope you'll consider reading them, and that they might provide you with a way of knowing us better.

Take your education seriously, Harry. Learn as much as you can and work hard, but make sure you have fun too. Make friends and treat everyone with respect. Stand up for what you believe in, and always do what you think is right, even if it isn't easy. Above all, Harry, if you find love hold onto it and don't ever let go. Love is the most powerful emotion there is. It is strength, motivation, and purpose. No reason will ever exist worth sacrificing your feelings or giving up on love. Don't be afraid for what the future may hold. Live in the moment and make everyday count. Come what may, I have no regrets. Know that I'll always love you and that I'll try to guide you anyway I can.

All my love,

Mum

Harry's sobs were choking him as the tears streamed down his face. Ginny wrapped him in her arms and tried to gauge his emotions, but they were in turmoil. She softly hummed in his ear as she rocked him and ran her fingers lovingly through his messy hair until Harry eventually got himself back in control.

She loved me, Gin. I mean I always hoped that she did, but this…this is proof. She loved me and cared about me.

Of course she did, Harry. She was your mother. She loved you more than anything and so do I.

Harry grinned sheepishly, Thanks Gin. I love you too. I think she would have liked you a lot.

You think so?

Yep.

Why?

You make me happy.

Ginny blushed. Open the next one. I like hearing how much other people love you and know you do too. It's been too long since you've felt it. I'm going to make sure that you feel it from here on out everyday.

Harry smiled at her and kissed her temple, then opened up the next envelope.

20 October 1981

Dear Harry,

Your mum told me about the letters that she and your dad were going to write to you in case they didn't survive, and suggested that it might be a good idea for me to write one, too. It was a very depressing conversation and quite a morbid thought to be writing this to you, but she had a point. This could be the only way you'll get to know me.

I'm your Godfather, Harry, and I couldn't love you more if you were my own flesh and blood. You've had me wrapped around your finger since the day you were born and your dad placed you in my arms. It's a pretty dangerous time in the world at the moment I write this, and the future is uncertain. I hope you never have to read this and that you've grown up with me and your parents, playing pranks, snogging girls, and causing mischief and mayhem wherever you go, but if this letter found its way to you, that isn't the case. I swore to your parents I'd be there for you, and if I'm not, then I hope I went down fighting to make the world safer for you to grow up in.

Now that we have all the mushy stuff out of the way, it's time for me to impart my Godfatherly advice. You, Pronglet, are the son and godson of a Marauder. As such, you must solemnly swear that you're up to no good. You have a reputation to uphold and I know you'll make me proud. It is your solemn duty to break the rules, fight for your beliefs, pull one over authority figures, explore all of the Hogwarts broom cupboards, go on adventures, and prank EVERYONE! The last and most important thing above all else is to have fun. Laugh and enjoy life, Harry, you only get one.

Your loving Godfather,

Sirius aka Padfoot

Mischief Managed

Harry gave a watery chuckle as he shed silent tears. He seems like he would have been a really fun Godfather.

Yeah, he does.

Wonder when he died?

Don't know, but maybe Griphook will be able to tell us. Are you ready to read your last letter?

Harry didn't reply, but picked it up and broke the seal. Flattening the letter, he began to read.

25 October 1981

Dear Harry,

We just finished a rather disturbing conversation with Albus Dumbledore this afternoon, and it quite frankly terrified your mother and me more than I care to admit. We love you more than anything son, and we are going to do everything in our power to protect you.

Apparently, a prophecy was given several days ago that possibly refers to you:

"The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches… born to those that have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies… and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not… and either will die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives… the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies…"

There were two possibilities the prophecy could refer to, yourself and Neville Longbottom. Albus informed us that one of Voldemort's spies heard the first part and that Voldemort views you as being more of a threat. Albus suggested that we go into hiding under a Fidelius Charm, which uses a Secret Keeper to hide our location. He offered to be our Secret Keeper, but there's a spy in the Order and members keep coming up dead or missing. There is no one your mother and I trust more with your safety than Sirius. He came up with a dangerous, but brilliant plan to use our mate, Peter, as our Secret Keeper because he is the weakest of the Marauders and the least likely to ever be considered. Sirius would pretend he was our Keeper, acting as bait to keep them off Peter's back.

We could not have picked a better Godfather for you, Harry, and I know that if anything happens to us, he'll love you and raise you as his own. Your mum will be casting the charm tonight on our residence in Godric's Hollow, as it's much smaller and will take less power to cast.

You are going to be an incredibly powerful wizard, my son. You already do amazing things. Just last week you levitated Padfoot into your crib to cuddle with as you napped. We are moving all our photo albums, books, journals, and jewellery into the Family Vault. You'll be granted full access at fifteen, but if there's something you would like to see beforehand ask Ragnok and he'll make it happen.

Be happy, Harry. Play lots of pranks, make some good friends, laugh and enjoy life to its fullest. When you find the right girl, don't let anything or anyone stop you from loving her. With the right woman by your side you can accomplish anything. Having you was the best thing to happen to us, and not a second goes by that I regret having you, even with the war going on. You and your mother are my reason to fight. Live life on your own terms and I'll be proud of you no matter what.

Watching over you always,

Dad

Harry began crying again in earnest, and Ginny gently removed the letter from his hand and placed on the pile atop Griphook's desk.

Once again Ginny wrapped him in her arms. Oh, Harry…

Why Gin? Why? Why did they have to die? Why couldn't we be together? Why did I have to lose Sirius too? Why!

I don't know, Harry.

It's not fair! It's just not fair!

You're right. It's not fair. You deserve to have grown up with your parents and Sirius.

Why did Voldemort have to choose me? "It's my fault they're all dead," Harry whispered miserably.

"No, it's not!" You were a baby, Harry! Your parents loved you. They said they had no regrets, and the last thing they would want is you blaming yourself.

Harry tucked his face into her neck and took a deep shuddering breath.

They wouldn't want this, Harry.

You're right. Sorry.

It's okay. Just don't do it again. No more blaming yourself.

Okay, I'll try. What am I going to do about Voldemort, though? Hagrid said that some people don't believe he's really gone and that he'll try to come back one day. The prophecy says I'll have to kill him or be killed by him. The panic in Harry's voice began to escalate near the end.

We'll just have to make sure we're ready, because I won't be letting you face him alone. This is obviously why your dad got Harry's Haven set up for you. So you can train and be prepared for when it happens.

We are going to need help.

Yeah, we are, but we can talk about that later. Maybe tomorrow if you feel up to it.

We can now.

No, Harry. You've had enough to take in already. Tomorrow is soon enough.