snicker Oh, I love that scenario for dealing with Tom and how Harry is having fun with the MOBB (Manipulative Old Bearded Bastard). Dumbles seems to be at the root of the betrayals, knowing, seemingly, what buttons to push to get Molly & Ginny, as well as Remus, to go along with his devious plans. I have to wonder if these were for the greater good of Albus Dumbledore, his vision of the "greater good" of wizarding Britain, or some other purpose that he could convince himself that such a betrayal served?
The bit with Moody was a nice touch. I don't think Harry and Daphne are certain, yet, how long term their relationship is, but it sure looks to have potential. If things stay well between them, I can see him surprising her at Christmas with something more than ordinary presents. Meanwhile, I suspect Daphne and Tracey, along with Neville and Hannah will be enlightening Harry on all the social etiquette he's going to have to master and the detailed knowledge that'll be needed to minimize strife.
I've got mixed feelings about Remus, sure Dumbledore talked him into it, but I can't help but think that he did have free choice (I do wonder, though, how long it took Dumbles to wear down his resistance).
Oh, just as another story to help drive Albus spare, how about a reverse on your set up for "The Distaff Side" and have Harry send Tom to another worldline where he can live, giving both of them semi-immortality due to the prophecy?
Author's response
- As far as Molly and Ginny, I see them much like the classic 'liberals' of the 1960s. "Some of my best friends aren't pureblood, but I wouldn't want my daughter to MARRY one..."
- Remus on the other hand has other problems.
- I just figured Moody had to be related to SOMEONE, so why not (besides who better to give the 'hurt her, you're road kill' speech?)