FicWad

Chapter 17:- A Will, a Wand and a Wandmaker

**
A/N: I’ll like to thank Malehorntaildragon for his help.

**


Ginny sat up in her bed unable to get to sleep. She had been trying for the past hour. The night before had been hectic but no more than normal. She had managed to quiz Gabrielle about what she had taught Harry in the afternoon and as normal Gabrielle didn’t give much over. Thinking about the younger girl made her glance over. She was curled up almost into a ball asleep but this was only a guess as there was no sound coming from her bed.

Turning away from Gabrielle she crawled the length of her bed until she was leaning on the windowsill. Looking out into the night might calm her mind enough so that she could sleep she thought. The moon was bright that night and it illuminated the whole area. As the silvery light played in the grass she caught the quiet movement of Crookshanks as he crawled through the bushes on the search for something, and that, she reflected was what she was on, a search for something. She didn’t know exactly what she was searching for but she was feeling very uncomfortable here at home.

Sunday was fast approaching and the day with the whole family might help her but she knew that her mind would not stop her from thinking about that shed. When she had seen it her mind was first shocked to see Harry in that place. The way he look the way he was dressed had effected her but now as she sat there looking out she realised that the fact he was in the shed was effecting her more. She had taken virtually every single home comfort for granted but Harry had none of these, but never once had she heard him complain about it. He had ranted a little about his Aunt and Uncle but never did he complain about the home comforts.

She continued to look at the starry night and started to think about Monday. Her mother had actually agreed to let her go shopping with Luna and Gabrielle. She still couldn’t believe that she was going to be let out, alone. Well not exactly alone, she had heard her mum talking about Harry and the Order. Earlier that night she had quizzed Gabrielle about it and she had said that Harry was going to be in Diagon Alley sometime that day as well. Ginny then realised that if Harry was going to be there, there would be a greater Order presence and so her Mum probably felt safer and she suspected that she would be coming along as well.

That day was beginning to hold some mystical significance and she was planning to use every moment of it but not necessarily for herself. Glancing quickly at Gabrielle she knew the younger girl needed more clothes. The number of different outfits that she could make out of the few that she had brought with her was almost finished and so Ginny knew that come what may she was going to help Gabrielle. She didn’t know why but it felt right. It was as though Gabrielle was her link to Harry and as desperately as she wanted to run towards him she couldn’t, at least for the moment, but if she helped her “link” it would be like helping Harry. Her mother had frightened her a little when she sat down and ranted at her for the visit she had already done and she didn’t want to cross her just yet.

Ginny continued to look at the night sky and the drifting clouds and let her mind continue to wander. The shopping for Gabrielle was playing on her mind a little but she knew that it was a way she could blot out the other reason she wanted to go. Harry's birthday was on Thursday, she didn’t know if there was any plans made yet but she hopped at the very least she could see him on that day. She had also yet to get him a present. In her heart of hearts she knew exactly the present she wanted to give him. It was the most precious thing that she had and she wanted to give it to him. In her fantasy mind she imagined walking towards Harry or just waiting in his room dressed in the sexy red underwear she had yet to wear. As he approached with the questioning look in his beautiful green eyes she would answer his unspoken question “Happy birthday Harry, I’m your present; unwrap me.”

But she knew that it would never happen no matter how much she willed it, but it didn’t stop her from opening her trunk and looking at the underwear. Whenever she finally wore it; it would be special, if it couldn’t be for that fantasy she would try for another. Slowly closing the trunk lid she climbed back onto her bed and looked out once more into the dark night and dreamt of the boy with green eyes.

**

Harry pulled open the door of the shed. The day off from training was better than he could have hoped for. The morning had been taken up with the normal activates that he had gotten used to this summer. As lunch time rolled past he finished the last of the gardening and realised that for the first time during the holidays he had nothing to do. The sudden freedom surprised Harry and worried him a little, he had managed to get through each day by being busy but he was now free to do what he liked.

At first he had just walked round the garden and inspected his handy work, it was nice to look at something and remember that he did that. The circuit of the garden had not taken long and as he sat under the tree he thought back to his lessons. Not wanting to open himself to the thoughts of Gabrielle, he tried to focus on her training but for some reason he had trouble with it as he sat there. Every time he tried to look he could just about make out the ribbons but nothing else, no barrier no nothing.

Rising to his feet he looked round and realised that he was wasting time. He had the whole afternoon to himself. For the past week all he had seen was this house and garden. Smiling he walked through the house and out into the Private Drive. He was going to enjoy his freedom today. As soon as he went through the garden gate he started to feel different. He stopped instantly so he could workout what was happening. When he had been in the house he had felt warm and comfortable but now he suddenly felt different. It wasn’t much but there was defiantly something; he didn’t feel quiet so warm, he felt vulnerable. His hand instantly dropped to his side as he looked round, nothing was out of the ordinary but it didn’t stop the feelings.

Still being a little cautious he made his way to the local park. It was busier than he had expected but it was nice to see other people. He saw that a few gave him a quick glance but it was obvious by the way they turned away that they had been told stories about him from Uncle Vernon. This fear in people had some advantages in that he was able to find a swing and nobody came close but it also saddened him. He was soon forgotten by all as he quietly sat and watched the world.

As he was gently swinging his mind brought back the images of Gabrielle and Ginny on that Thursday. The way they had all sat and talked just felt natural to him his mind kept wandering until he notice that he started to feel different. He still felt vulnerable but something else was there. Closing his eyes he let his magic just flow, it felt that this was the right thing to do. Very quickly he felt something, not malicious but something, in fact he felt two something’s and one of them was getting closer. Before he had time to open his eyes and search for the something’s a voice called out.

“This swing taken?”

Harry swivelled in his seat to look behind him and saw the slightly dishevelled persona of Remus.

“Remus what you doing here?”

“Come to say hello, do you mind?” he asked indicating the spare seat. Harry shook his head and watched Remus easily slide into the seat next to him.

“I saw you leave and thought I’d tag along.”

“Are you keeping watch over me?”

Remus smiled slightly at that thought.

“Not really I was just staying close.”

Harry looked round slowly and surveyed the area.

“Why?”

“Well…I thought that after what Tonks said that I should stay close in case you need any help.”

“I told you I was fine, I don’t need a minder.”

“I know that I just wanted to be here in case.”

“In case of what?”

“Anything.” Replied Remus.

Harry took a couple of small swings before he replied.

“You mean him.”

“Some of it but really I was just trying to be close in case you needed me...” Remus looked of into the far distance.

“So where are you staying.”

“Mrs Figgs.”

Harry snorted at the answer.

“I bet you love it there?”

“It’s not too bad, the cats make me a little edgy but it does have some advantages.”

“Such as?”

“I see your teacher everyday.”

“Gabrielle.”

“Yes and even though see is young she’s the best looking teacher that I’ve ever seen.”

Harry couldn’t stop the blush for rising and waited for his heart and mind to calm before he responded.

“You don’t have to do this.”

Remus smiled as he watched the back of Harry swinging.

“I know, but I want too. I might not be able to anything for you later so I wanted to do this now. As your Guardian I wanted to look out for you and as your…friend… I wanted to do it as well.”

“My friend?”

“Yes Harry I class you as my … friend.”

“Oh?”

The pair continued to look at the family’s in the park.

“You’re going somewhere?” asked Harry.

“Yes Dumbledore asked me to do something. I’ll be leaving sometime during the summer.”

“What are you doing?”

“I can’t say. It’s not as thought I don’t want to but it’s best that you don’t know.”

“That’s just it Remus. Even you are trying to keep things from me.”

Remus chuckled a little at that causing Harry to stop swinging and glare at him.

“No Harry this time it’s for best if no-one knows.”

“I don’t understand.”

“I didn’t expect you too, but it’s for everyone’s protection that nobody knows.”

Harry gaze softened slightly as he realised that he wasn’t the only one being kept in the dark.

“So Harry’s how your lessons going?”

“Oh OK at the moment, I’ve…I’ve learnt a few things.”

“I’m not prying Harry this power that you have very few can comprehend and some will resent it. Well I’ll just leave you to your day and see you tomorrow.”

“I’m glad you’ll be there.”

“Anytime.” Replied Remus jumping off his swing and stretching his back the walked slowly off leaving Harry to his Sunday Afternoon.


**

Olivander climbed out of the public floo at the Leaky Cauldron. The early hour meant there were virtually no witnesses to his arrival. He had lost count of the times he had walked this route to open his shop. Walking through the pub and out into the ally he stopped, much had changed in his years of his travelling this route. He could remember when he first took over the shop. He was young but gifted in the art of wandmaking; he had lived above the shop and spent almost every evening using his skill. Now he lived far away, the daily commute his one problem these days.

As he walked the length of the Ally his minds eyes catalogued the changes he had seen in his years. Many of the shops were new to him he could just remember back to when this ally had only four shops but now it was a busy commercial street.

He paused outside one of the newer shops. The bright orange front brought a smile to his wizened face. They hadn’t been in the Ally long but the changes the Weasley twins had made could already be seen. As he watched his customers come and go some of them now had smiles on there faces where as a few months ago it was all grim depression. He continued on to his own shop, virtually nothing had changed the look of the shop since he took over from his father. The windows were still old fashioned, the door a simple wooden one, no glaring signs or explosions to tempt customers just the simple wooden sign hanging above the door.

Waving his wand in front of his door and then inserting the tip of it into the door frame he felt the familiar change of atmosphere as most of the wards were removed. His shop was not the most protected in the Ally nor was it the oldest both of those honours went to Gringotts, but his was the second oldest, one of the original four shops that had started the Alley. He opened the door and placed his coat on the stand, the daily routine for him had changed little. He turned the handwritten sign in the door to open and the crossed the slightly dusty floor.

As he went he tap each shelve to remove the protections that were placed upon them. It was simple to do but sometimes it was time consuming. Every morning and every evening he had to go round at set the wards and charms. His farther and grandfather had relayed stories of when the shop was constantly being attacked so that their secrets could be revealed to the magical world. The protections had been built up over all of those years that even he didn’t know all of them he just followed the routine he had been shown as a boy.

Once completed he walked to his workbench and surveyed the almost completed wand. Early mornings were one of the best times he had found to work on the wands. It was his only passion and the only thing that he had wanted to do. Running the shop was a small diversion but all he wanted to do was work the wands. He looked at the wand on the bench and shook his head, he had always felt what wood, what carvings and what length would satisfy a core but this one was strange even to him.

Slowly pouring himself a cup of tea he sat and conjured two lights so he could look at his creation. It was almost unique in his mind, he had never before made a wand like the one he was looking at, almost everything about it seemed wrong. Changing his glasses so that he could study it closer he gently picked up the wood, it was so plain it almost worried him. Normally by now he would have some idea of how to carve the handle at least but this one just seemed to say done.

Gently placing this one back on its stand he shook his head and looked round the rest of the bench, there weren’t many wands he was working on but he set to work never the less on one of the others hoping for some inspiration over the plain one.

**

Greenburg showered and dressed in silence. Over the weekend he had purchased a set of old clothes. He had never been seen in anything like them before and so he hopped that they would hide his true identity. The use of glamour charms wasn’t going to help because he suspect in the heat of the moment they would fail and they may interfere with his job, never in his career had he tried to break wards with a glamour charm active on himself and today wasn’t the day he was going to try it.

Walking into his small kitchen he tried to make breakfast for himself but found his stomach churning far too much. He sat down a slowly drank a cup of coffee and ideally wondered if last night would be the last time he slept in his bed. Picking up the document in front of him he started to re-read the notes. He knew the off by heart by now but still he went over and over them. Time was crucial the meeting yesterday stressed it so many times it was ingrained into him. The longer they stayed in the Alley the grater chance of being caught. The idea of the attack was not so much to create fear as the need to capture.

He walked back to the lounge and sat in his chair. Closing his eyes he tried to remember what he saw on his reconnaissance the other day. The charms at the front were indeed very limited, a couple of privacy charms one or two strengthening charms which looked to be focused on the building and what looked to be some form of alarm probably telling the owner when someone had entered the shop. The only trouble in the back of his mind was that the building almost radiated magic due to the number of spells that had been used on it over the years and so he could have easily missed something.

Shaking his head at his second thoughts he reminded himself that he was the best and today he was going to prove it again.

**

Breakfast had almost been a rushed affair as everyone was eager for the shopping trip. Even Ron who never liked shopping seemed to be rushing so that they could leave. Ginny wondered if Ron’s attitude had anything to do with Hermione and the prospect of some alone time with her. She knew that her Mum was accompanying them all but Molly had said she was going to stay at the Cauldron after she had done her own shopping.

Ginny looked over her shoulder at Gabrielle as she was getting changed and saw the younger girl sort carefully the small pile of clothes obviously looking for something different to ware.

“You all right?” asked Ginny feeling a little concerned.

“A bit scared and worried.”

“Why it’s going to be a great day just us girls and shopping.”

“I know but I have to buy something else first and…”

“And what?”

“I’m excited but scared about doing it and whether I’ve enough money?” replied Gabrielle still looking at the pile of clothes. She desperately wanted to buy more; the allowance that her parents had given her would not go far if she had to buy her school things from it as well. She could ask her parents for more and they would willingly give it to her she was sure, but she wanted to show them and everybody else that she could survive on her own resources. It was just now with everything coming up her meagre savings did indeed look too small for everything that she wanted.

“What have you got to get.”

“My first wand.”

“Oh…oh now I understand.” Answered Ginny walking over to Gabrielle and enveloping her in a hug from behind. “Don’t worry Olivander’s is wonderful, I remember when I went before my first year. Mum had saved up and got me the wand as my birthday present but actually getting my wand was both a wonderful and a little scary experience.”

“Yes, but I feel that I should get one now you all have one, even if I don’t know how to use it, it might come in handy though.”

Ginny continued to hold the girl but for some unexplained reason she reckoned she could feel the girls worry and emotions through her arms.

“Say Gabrielle when’s your birthday?”

“2nd of September, why?”

Ginny continued to hold the girl as she quickly added up the amount of money she had saved. For most of the year she had been saving what she could, she was hopping that today she could splash out a bit on herself and Harry’s present. But holding Gabrielle as she was, she knew that her plans had to change for whatever reason this girl needed her help.

“Well Gabrielle how about I get some more clothes for your birthday and then you’ll have plenty for a wand and anything else.”

“But Ginny I couldn’t; you told me you have been saving all year.”

“Don’t worry you brought me to Harry, without you I wouldn’t have seen him all summer and already I’ve seen him twice. You also said that you would take me along sometime for training. I would give anything that I have to be with him and you gave it to me so think of it as repayment for what you have done for me and Harry.”

“But…but…”

“No buts just get changed and quickly; I can hardly wait.”

**

Draco looked along the length of the dinning table. As was his custom at the moment he was having breakfast alone in the large dinning room. The only other person present was Butt who was standing very quietly to the side awaiting any order.

As he sipped the last of his coffee be began to look over his fathers notes once more. The plan his farther had come up with was good and with Draco’s own knowledge of the school it should be easy to implement. The thought of killing Dumbledore was not pleasant but his options were limited.

His father’s notes on Borgin were quiet explicit and Draco ideally wondered where his father he had gotten much of it. When he finished he flipped through the rest of the notebook and saw that there were many people included some he even knew. He stopped at the entry headed Madam Rosmerta. He slowly read the contents and was amazed at some of the information. It contained her birthday, place of birth, results from Hogwarts and then went into more personal details. It covered her likes and dislikes, things she was most afraid of and to his surprise financial information about the Three Broomsticks. It finally mentioned that the Malfoy’s had lent Madam Rosmertta the biggest proportion of the money she borrowed to start her businesses. There was also a side note saying that she wasn’t interested in running anything out of her back rooms and she was against using her pub as a meeting place or location to groom the young girls or boys from Hogwarts.

Draco finished the end of this report and sipped his coffee again as he thought about the information he had read.

“Butt, where did my father get his information from?”

“I…I don’t know master.” Stammered the house elf.

“Did he have visitors, regular ones?”

“No master...sorry My Lord he had very few visitors.”

So where did all this information come from he mused before flipping through more pages until he came on another entry which made him stop and read. Robert Parkinson, Pansy’s father. He quickly read this one and found that it had less information about him written down. There was a birthday but no place and very little else. It mentioned his job and level of responsibility but that was all. The side note held some interesting information though. Robert has been suspected of practicing Dark Art’s but has never been investigated yet when approached he seemed very concerned for the welfare of half-bloods and muggles. He could be a liability to the organisation. A final note was also written and it was indeed very new. Robert’s daughter Pansy had taken a liking to Draco I think he is responding favourably, must keep a close eye on developments.

Draco closed the journal before he read anymore. His father was keeping an eye on him at school as well as the people he associated with. This made him shiver slightly at the thought of what his father knew.

“Butt make sure these are safe for me. I’ll be leaving now.”

“Yes My Lord.” Replied the house elf bowing low

**

Harry finished the washing up and looked at the list that was left for him. The routine had not changed since day one, even after his little talk. He knew that today he wasn’t going to do much on that list, today he had his own plans. Hedwig last night had delivered the replies from both the Solicitors and Dumbledore about the trip and glancing at the clock he saw the he had little time to get ready.

He had arranged to see the Solicitors at ten to ten not knowing how long everything was going to take. As he opened the shed door and looked at his school trunk, he had decided against wearing robes or anything of the like but still somehow felt that he should. Shaking his head slightly he changed into the best Muggle clothes that fitted him and then left.

The day looked to be nice, not too warm so forgoing a jacket he walked out the front door without so much as a goodbye. Standing at the end of the garden was Remus waiting for him.

“Hey you’re early Harry.”

“Not as early as you, how long have you been waiting?”

“Oh not long.” replied Remus waving off Harry’s concern. He had in fact been waiting ever since Vernon had left, he was getting more and more suspicious about not seeing any sign of the Order and so thought the best he could do for today was to turn up early.

“So Harry you’re a bit early how about we go for a walk before we have to leave.”

Harry nodded and the two of them set off down the road in silence.

“What’s going to happen?” asked Harry as they walked.

“I don’t really know we’ll just have to find out together.”

Harry continued to walk as studied the surrounding area. He felt the same sensation as he left the house as he had done yesterday and realised that Gabrielle training was beginning to affect the way he looked at the world.

“I’m safe at the Dursley’s”

“What made you say that Harry?”

“I can feel it. I feel safe at the Dursley’s here is different.”

“We’ve only walked 100 yards or so.”

“I know it’s just a feeling I have.” replied Harry with a smile.

Remus studied Harry not understanding what he been said and so decided that it was time to move on.

“Well then shall we get going then?” asked Remus holding out an arm.

**

The Weasley party arrived as a group at the Leaky Cauldron. Almost immediately all of the children headed towards Diagon Alley. Molly just stood and watched them. She wasn’t exactly happy but Arthur had convinced her that it would be alright. She had first thought that this trip had been thought up by Ginny as a way of seeing Harry. She still hadn’t forgiven her for running out the last time. She was certain that it was another ploy until Arthur told her that Harry knew nothing about it.

She really didn’t believe her husband but she eventually agreed to the possibility. It wasn’t long after that that she heard from Dumbledore that Harry had arranged a meeting in the Alley this very day. She had been ready to storm into Ginny’s room and demand to know what she had planed but Dumbledore had told her that Harry had only just made the request after hearing that Gabrielle was possibility not available. Molly was still very upset that her daughter was going to be spending the day in the Alley and Harry was also going to be around. She wasn’t against them seeing each other she easily remembered how Ginny was when they had returned from Hogwarts but she was still only 14 far too young in her eyes to be doing anything with boys.

The thought of Harry being here also helped calm her nerves slightly. With him being here the Order was bound to have extra people and Dumbledore mentioned that he was going to be around as well. So between all of that this place was going to be safe. Walking through the archway she looked down the street and just about saw the disappearing heads of her children. Ginny, Gabrielle and Luna were on one side of the street and Ron and Hermione were on the other. As she looked towards the pair she had to suppress a second shudder. Ever since Hermione had arrived she had been cautious about letting those two be alone. Ron was a good son but she didn’t trust him that much. Molly had decided that she would at least look out for Hermione and keep Ron at bay for her.

The other three were almost completely different from each other. When Luna had arrived at the Burrows she was everything that Ron and Ginny had told her about but something in Luna’s eyes made Molly think that most people missed something in Luna. When Molly had looked she thought she saw something. Wisdom or knowledge there was something in Luna’s eyes when she had first looked at her it twinkled very similar to Dumbledore’s whenever he was happy or explained a complicated plan.

Ginny was everything that she had hopped for plus a little bit. When they had left the Burrows it was clear that Ginny had put herself in charge of their little group the way she spoke the way she moved told the group she was in charge. That was her daughter do a tee. Ginny had always looked out for those younger or those weaker than herself and today was no different Ginny was going to make sure that everyone got to do what they wanted and no one person monopolised the day.

Gabrielle, as the last member of the group, was the quietest; the youngest, but there was something about her. Molly had been unable to get much out of the young girl. She knew that she was working on a summer project but what it exactly was she didn’t know. Everyday Molly had collected the washing from the girl’s room and found that Gabrielle’s clothes were always neatly folded even when dirty and every day Gabrielle thanked her for doing the washing or cooking. Apart from that Gabrielle had said very little to her.

Losing sight of the children caused Molly a moment of panic but she moved forward at the same pace. Before they had left she had lectured all of them about being safe and what to do if anything happened. She had told them to try and get to the Cauldron and if that wasn’t possible to the twins shop or finally the bank. But she didn’t think that any of them had really paid any attention to anything she had said.

As she walked towards the sewing shop to purchase some more wool she started to look for the extra Order members. Every step that she took and not finding one made her more and more worried but on entering the shop she soon forgot about that as she started to look at the differing patterns and wools.

**

“I take it that you want to go to the bookshop?” asked Ron.

“No more than you want to go to Quality Quidditch supplies.”

Ron smiled at the rebuff from Hermione. Today he was hoping to at least have some time alone with her. For most of the week he had managed to steal only the occasional kiss from her as his mother seemed to be constantly hovering around. It wasn’t as thought he was going to do more he thought, Hermione wasn’t that type of girl nor was he, he thought, yet his teenage mind still kept giving him fantasies every night about the bushy haired girl walking next to him.

As they walked slowly he let this hand drop beside Hermione’s he wanted nothing more that to grab her but felt uncomfortable doing so.

The smile of pleasure from Ron was pure joy to Hermione as she slipped her hand into his as they walked. When she had heard about the trip she had squirmed in her seat hopping that Ron would want to go. Being here with him and no Harry about was like a statement to themselves that they were together. She wanted more, much more but so far had been frustrated at both Mrs Weasley’s hovering and of Ron’s gallantry or just shyness.

Her body was longing to pull Ron into a dark Alleyway and start to snogg him senseless. She could imagine pinning him against a wall and flattening herself against him. He would run his hands thought her hair and hold her head as she plunged her lips against his. As they stood there she would move against him and feel his hard chest against her soft breast. As the kiss deepened she would slowly open her legs and trap one of his between them and start to rub herself against him causing unimaginable sensations to run through her.

Forcing her imagination down she tried to concentrate on what Ron was saying but found it almost imposable because all she could focus on was how his lips moved and what would they be like when they moved against her.

“You alright Hermione?”

“Um…ah…yes Ron…I’m….fine.” replied Hermione pulling her hormones back under control.

“Well do you want to go in or not?”

Hermione looked up and saw they were at Flourish and Blott’s already.

“How about we do it later.” Purred Hermione not caring how it sounded.

Ron swallowed once. His oversexed mind easily misinterpreted what Hermione had said.

“Um…fine…ok.” He replied.

The two of them moved off further down the street not taking much notice of the shops just enjoying their separate fantasy’s about each other.


**

Draco stepped off the small stool in Madam Malkin’s as soon as he saw the redhead enter. He knew that head from school and where one went the others were sure to be. He heard the girlish mutterings move deeper into the shop and knew that he had to depart now before he was spotted.

“Draco you need to finish…”started Narcissa.

“No mother we need to go now. I’ll come back later Madam.” He commanded as he walked towards the door.

Draco led his mother out into the sunlight, in the distance he heard a bell chime the hour with ten strikes. Summoning his courage he turned to his mother and told her to wait in the Cauldron until he came back or something happened. Narcissa had been too well trained to say anything and just turned silently and walked off leaving Draco alone.

He waited until his mother was out of sight before he started to make his way towards his destination. He wasn’t going to walk straight there in case he was followed but he had the feeling that something was going to happen. As he walked he saw several faces that seemed to be just standing there watching. He also saw a few that he was certain he recognised and recognised them as Death Eaters.

**

Ginny walked up and down the racks of clothing slowly with Gabrielle. The three of them had entered Madam Malkin’s together but almost as soon as they entered Luna had wandered off on her own. Both Gabrielle and Ginny stopped every so often to pull out an item of clothing or something to show each other. Ginny didn’t know how she did it but she found that Gabrielle had an absolute knack of choosing the right clothes not just for herself but also for Ginny.

A few times Ginny would look at a top or skirt and then shake her head thinking that they were awful but Gabrielle just kept telling her different. All the younger girl said was to wait it would be fine if she tried this top or had a pair of shoes or something like that. It was like walking around a shop with an expert.

Eventually Ginny had to stop Gabrielle and ask.

“How do you know all of this and get everything so right?”

Gabrielle smiled.

“I don’t, I just know you and…”

“What?” questioned Ginny seeing Gabrielle stop in mid sentence and a small blush appear on her cheeks.

“The man you’re trying to impress.”

Ginny laughed at the truthfulness of the statement she had indeed been looking at the clothes thinking of Harry and what she would look like to him.

“Let’s find Luna to see what she’s chosen and then you can get your wand.”

“Aren’t you getting these?” asked Gabrielle.

“Maybe later after we’ve bought everything else that we want.”

**

Greenburg apparated to a dark spot in Knockturn ally. He looked round quickly and nervously and saw that there was only one other person here. He walked forward towards this man and saw with great relief that it was McNair. He had only properly met him yesterday when he was going over today’s plan. McNair was going to be in charge today and so Greenburg was relived to see him.

“You’re on time…good.” said the gruff voice.

“What now.”

“We have to wait, remember. The others have to get into position and then we strike can you do it?”

“Of course.” Replied Greenburg with more confidence that he felt.

“Ok follow me, we will move through Knockturn Ally until we are closer.”

Greenburg nodded slightly and then followed him through the Alley. Last time he was here it had been full of people but today it seemed almost empty, did they know something?

As they turned a corner they saw a lone person striding down the Alley. He was walking with purpose and no fear. As Greenburg got close he instantly recognised the face, the bright blond hair gave him the first clue but the face was one easily remembered. Draco Malfoy.

“Damm...what’s he doing here?” muttered McNair as he turned his back on the approaching boy as if looking at the dirty shop window.

Greenburg was slower to turn and saw Draco’s eye’s wash over him once but there didn’t seem to be any recognition from Draco.


**

Harry felt the sickening squeezing sensation stop as he started to appear in the reception of a large office building. Travelling by apparition was coming close to one of Harry least favourite forms of transport. Following Remus he made his way to the reception desk.

The tall desk had hid most of the receptionist from view but as he got closer he was able to fully see her. He had always thought that these types of places were manned by older people but the person that he was staring at was clearly young almost his own age.

As he got closer his mind registered the fact that the receptionist seemed to lean slightly forward which allowed Harry to look straight down the low cut top. Harry could quiet clearly see the lace top of a lilac bra which was supporting the two soft mounds in front of him. He had hardly seen this type of display before and he could feel a response in his balls.

“Mr Potter and Mr Lupin to see…” started Remus but got no further as the receptionist broke in.

“I’m Lucy, I’ve been expecting you please wait a moment.” Purred the voice.

Harry felt the voice tear into him and his reaction would soon be obvious, but he wasn’t expecting what happened next. The women slowly turned and stood up; she walked away to a small desk behind her. Harry eyes automatically travel along her full length and he saw that she was wearing a tight fitting red dress the showed every curve. The dress ended just above the knees and the woman’s legs were in cased in dark nylon with a seam running down the back. The click, click, click of the black heels sent a second shiver through Harry, but when the woman stopped a bent over the desk causing the dress to tighten across her full bottom his teenage mind went into overdrive.

The woman returned, carrying a folder, as slowly as she had walked over to the desk. This time Harry could see the gentle sway of the breasts as she moved.

“You’re a little early so please take a seat; I’ll just take this to Mr Brown. If you need anything just ask.” Purred Lucy looking directly at Harry before turning once more.

Remus looked down at Harry and saw the boy’s eyes follow the girl as she walked slowly through a door. Smiling to himself he directed Harry to a leather sofa and sat next to him.

“You need to focus Harry.” Chided Remus.

Harry’s shivered once more as his mind thought about the long dark legs, the full and round ass, the soft breasts and the purring voice. But something in Remus’s voice made him stop, instantly he felt his emotions come under his own control. He ran through the techniques that Gabrielle had taught him and suddenly felt dirty at what he had done.

“You need to get use to that.” said Remus.

“What?”

“Women Harry; women like that.”

“I don’t understand.”

“In someway that’s best but not now. Harry whether you like it or not you’re famous and … rich.”

“But…”

“I know, but the truth of it is that you are. The papers have been lording you as The Chosen One and Merlin only knows how they have managed to find out from the goblins, but they also know you have a vast amount of money. For some women that a powerful incentive to “get to know you”.”

“Get to know me?”

Remus chuckled slightly as he shook his head.

“Harry in three days you become in most women’s eyes the most desirable person in this country.”

“But I’m only sixteen. That’s two years before I’m an adult.”

“No Harry in the Wizarding world you become and adult at seventeen.”

“Alright but I’m still a year away.”

“Yes but we have similar rules as muggles. You can get married at fifteen, with your parents or guardians permission, and you can also legally have sex.”

“What’s sex got to do with it?” asked Harry blushing.

“That’s the whole point. If a woman has sex with you and manages to get pregnant they are made for life. You would have to support them and, if they were lucky or you were taken with them, you may even marry them.”

Harry’s mind in its much more calm state started to understand what Remus was saying.

“So you mean that she would…?” asked Harry now blushing profusely and looking down.

“In a heartbeat, Harry. If you asked her right now to do it, right here in front of me, I bet she wouldn’t say no. I’m certain that she was wearing some form of love potion or fragrance and I’ll also bet my savings that she had already taken some form of fertility potion to give her the greatest chance of conceiving.”

Harry mouth dropped open as he looked at Remus now fully understanding what he was saying.

“You probably didn’t see but did you notice anything strange about the hospital when we left?” asked Remus.

“Um…it was little crowded.” Tentatively answered Harry fearing he knew the answer anyway.

“Yes but anything about the crowd?”

“They were mostly woman.”

“And did you notice that most of them had adjusted their uniforms to shall we say better express themselves.”

“Um…not really.”

“They did trust me on that. In three days time Harry women will be throwing themselves at you.”

Harry suddenly though about Ginny and Gabrielle. Was this the reason they had visited with him? Were they no better than the receptionist?

“What about my friends?” he asked.

“Your friends? No they aren’t the same, there will be some at Hogwarts but not your friends they’ve known you longer.”

“One hasn’t.” whispered Harry thinking of Gabrielle

Remus looked sharply at Harry face and saw a look of sorrow start to cross it. His ears had already caught what Harry had whispered.

“That’s true but she’s different wouldn’t you say?”

Harry nodded but had to know. Was everything Gabrielle was doing just to entice him into something? He had to know and know now. Closing his eyes he calmed his racing heart and mind. The separate images of Ginny and Gabrielle came to the fore as normal. As he opened his eyes he surveyed the reception, the image was blurry but he could see a faint green glow over the desks and cabinets and in the air.

He saw the floating ribbons stretch from him and was surprised to see that three of them were tightly together and seemed to flow straight out of the door. The last strong one was more wavy and flowed out in the opposite direction he could make out more ribbons, they were faint but he could see and outline of them. Knowing that he best not look at Remus just yet he focused on the door Lucy had walked through and didn’t have long to wait until she reappeared.

Harry's mind registered everything that he saw, later he would try and understand everything but for now he was looking for one thing. As Lucy walked slowly back towards her desk Harry saw that there was no ribbon, no connection between the two of them. Lucy was surrounded buy a tiny white glow but small wisps of red and pink seemed to float away from her and into the room. Closing his eyes he allowed himself to return to normal now knowing that Gabrielle and Lucy were indeed different. Why had he ever thought any differently?

A small pop and the displacement of air announced the arrival Dumbledore. Remus’s hand had already grasped his wand and was pulling it out before he had recognised who it was. Harry likewise had his hand already moving towards his pocket, he was a little jumpy too. Studying his headmaster he saw that for today he was wearing a set of dark robes which was unusual and made Harry wonder if he shouldn’t be wearing his robes.

“Hello you two, I’m sorry I am a little late something came up.” Called out Dumbledore.

“Nothing serious?” questioned Remus looking round the room once more.

“Oh not really…well not for the moment. It’s good to see you Harry, everything fine?”

“Yes sir.” Replied Harry not going into any details, not knowing if he should be talking about his training or not.

Dumbledore turned towards the sound of the approaching receptionist.

“Ah…Miss Burrows it’s nice to see you again.”

“And you sir.”

“Hogwarts must be what five, six years behind you now?”

“No only two.” Replied Lucy quickly looking in Harry’s direction.

“Oh…I’m mistaken, my apologies. Well you look fine Miss Burrows I’ll just wait with the others.” Said Dumbledore waving his hand in the air.

Harry felt a small breeze across his face as Dumbledore’s hand waved and felt his head clear slightly. The look that Miss Burrows was giving Dumbledore was very cold and Harry understood that Remus had been right. The woman had covered the reception or more likely herself in some form of love potion or perfume and Dumbledore had just blown it all away.

“Ah…that’s more refreshing.” Commented Dumbledore as he sank into on of the chairs.

“I didn’t want to use my wand, something might have been said.” Replied Remus.

“Never mind. I take it that you and Harry have spoken about…”

“Yes we’ve spoken.”

“Good, good.”

A small clock somewhere chimed the hour and one of the doors was opened. Framed in the light was a smallish man but well dressed. He wasn’t wearing any robes or hat he looked about as muggle as possible. The suit he was wearing looked tailored and comfortable and in Harry’s mind he looked to be the perfect business man.

“Mr Potter, Professor and Mr?”

“Lupin.”

“Oh how very convenient. Well good morning I’m Peter Brown, please do come in.”

The three of them rose and walked into the room. The office was small with only a single desk but the view out of the windows showed the length of Diagon Alley as viewed from high up.

“Please sit down, tea, coffee?” asked Peter as he closed the door.

All three of them said no and so Peter moved back around his desk and sat down.

“So I must first thank you for coming Mr Potter, Harry if I may? It will allow me to finally close this unhappy affair. As I said in my letter I have been appointed as executor to Mr Black’s will. There just remain the final pieces of paperwork and then it’s all done.”

Harry looked at the two adult’s flanking him and saw the stony expression.

“Just to explain Harry, it’s my job to make sure that Mr. Black’s estate is divided according to his wishes and that any debts that he owed are paid off. This I have now done, I need you to sign this set of papers accepting the legacy. It will also have to be countersigned by your legal Guardian which I now understand to be Mr Lupin. This will then formally end the House of Black, as there is no living direct male relative through Mr. Black.”

Harry reached across to the paper that was on the desk. He saw that it was simple and had a glowing cross indicating where he should sign. Lifting the quill he quickly signed his name and then sat back. He watched Remus glance over the paper before he too signed.

“Ok with that done I can now give you Mr Black’s key which was found in his possession but may I remind you that as you are under age all the funds will be held in trust for you until you turn seventeen.”

Dumbledore pulled a roll of parchment from his robes and laid it on the desk.

“Mr Brown you will find that this is an order allowing Harry full access to his assets immediately without the need of a Guardian.”

Peter blinked once at the scroll, this was very unusually and somewhat impossible to do.

“But Professor...” he started to say.

“You will find that it has been duly signed by 7 fulltime members of the Wizengamot and is therefore legal as it only affects this person.”

Peter gently picked up the parchment and unrolled it. He quickly scanned the contents and saw that it indeed had the seven full signatures required.

“Very well Harry here is your key, the documents to the property are already deposited in the vault and if I can be of further assistance please contact me.”

Harry looked at the very small golden key in his hand. Along the edge was the number 076 but that was they only identifying mark. Almost in a daze he walked back into the reception area.

“Well Remus, Harry I must be getting back. I imagine you will want to have a look at what you have just received. Please remember I’m always available.”

Dumbledore turned once and then with the smallest pop he was gone.

“Do you want to go to Gingott’s?”

“I think I should.” Replied Harry quietly.

**

Remus looked round the room that they had been waiting in for almost an hour. When Harry had arrived bearing the Black family key it had caused a little commotion at the front desk. The pair of them were quickly met by a senior Goblin and escorted to this room. Badgrog had explained that as the vault was one of the oldest a great amount of paperwork was needed to transfer full ownership over. The two of them hadn’t really minded but they might have done if they knew the time that it was going to take.

They had been offered all types of refreshment as they waited but still no news about how much longer. Remus was starting to feel a little nervous but he was more concerned with Harry. He was sat in a chair leaning forwards just looking at the key held in his hands. A soft knock on the door announced to Remus that they were due for the next apology for the delay.

“Harry you do know how to make the Goblins jump!” called the voice as a young man walked in.

Harry spun in his seat and saw Bill walking in through the door closely followed by the silvery Part-Veela.

“Bill, Fleur it’s nice to see you.” He replied in what he hopped was a cheery voice.

Fleur sidestepped round Bill and pull Harry up into a hug. Instantly he felt a small response in his magic as he stood there with his arms at his side.

“I’m so sorry about your loss.”

“Thanks Fleur.”

“I hope you’re getting on ok with Gabrielle.” Whispered Fleur hopping to draw some information from him.

“She’s fine.” He replied quietly.

“I know I saw her earlier she was here at Gringott’s but how are your lessons.”

“Ok.”

“Learned much?”

“Some.”

Fleur leaned back and looked at Harry straight in the face; his answers were so bland it worried her. Feeling the scowl of Bill behind her she let Harry go and stepped backwards.

“So Harry you’ve managed to get most of the seniors running around quiet an accomplishment!” said Bill.

“All I wanted to do was too look in my vault.”

“That’s just it. It’s been so long since one of the old vaults has had to be changed it’s taking them some time to workout how.”

Harry just nodded and looked back at his hands. A shadow passed in front of him darkening his hands. Looking up he saw the Fleur had squatted down to his level and that Bill and Remus had moved away towards the door talking gently to themselves.

“Harry can I help?”

“No not really.” Replied Harry shaking his head. His emotions were boiling inside and he suspected that the sorrow he had been suppressing for so long would soon come out.

“Use Gabrielle.” Whispered Fleur seeing the emotions being fought on Harry’s face.

“Not this time, this time I’ve got to let it out and experience it myself. I can’t ask her just to take the pain away it isn’t fair.”

Fleur shook her head very slightly at Harry’s misunderstanding. He really didn’t know that Gabrielle would do this and anything she could for him. This small thing was the reason she was what she was. It was almost not fair to stop her from doing it. But the look on Harry’s face told her that he wasn’t going to use her.

“But don’t do it here Harry, do it when you’ve got support.”

“I haven’t got anyone for this.”

“Have you learnt nothing from my sister?!?”

“Of course I have!” replied Harry feeling a little annoyed at the accusation.

Fleur continued to look at Harry and saw that he didn’t understand and she knew that nothing she could say would change his mind. He had power and ability most people would kill for and in history they have; yet he still couldn’t see it and if he did he didn’t want to use it.

**

Ginny paused outside of Olivander’s the morning had been far better than any of them had expected they were already well loaded with shopping but the fun of the day was still overflowing. Gabrielle had been her normal quiet self for most of it so far but the sparkle that Ginny saw in her eye showed that she was enjoying it as much as the rest of them.

“Well Gabrielle why don’t you go and get your wand now. Luna and I will wait here for you.”

“What you’re not coming in?” questioned the girl quickly.

“No it’s best if you do it on your own, don’t worry he’s nice.”

“Oh yes he’s very nice if you don’t mind the scrumbles running around his head.” Luna said dreamily.

“Scrumbles?”

“Now Luna stop frightening Gabrielle…” Ginny leaned close to the girl and whispered. “…don’t worry there’s no such thing.”

Gabrielle smiled at the pair before crossing the road to the front door of Olivander’s. As she reached out to pull it open she looked over the front of the building. The glass was dirty in the main window and it was hard for her to look into the shop. The old fashioned woodwork on the outside all looked as if it needed a new coat of varnish as it was chipped and pealing, but she felt a small warm glow run through her. Pushing open the door she stepped into the shop and as she would tell anybody another world.

A small bell tinkled above her that announced her presence but she failed to see any shop assistant. All of the shops that she had been into so far had assistance just standing by ready to help, but here it looked empty. She took a few tentative steps forward to see if she could see anybody. The shop was not well lit but she could see a flickering glow on one of the back wall that indicated that there was a stronger light source at the back of the shop. As she moved forward she saw row after row of shelves, they reached right to the ceiling and every once of space was filled with small boxes.

The layers of dust covering the floor and shelves told Gabrielle that this place was hardly ever used or never even cleaned, but even though the dust was there it didn’t feel dirty. She approached a small counter and was surprised to find that even her small height she could see over it. Yet still no one appeared.

“Hello?” she called out wondering if she had missed something.

The light reflecting behind the last set of shelves seemed to flicker slightly more and stop, Gabrielle braced herself. A seemingly old man peered round the shelves and looked straight at Gabrielle.

“Um…I’m…” stammered Gabrielle looking at the wizard. He was indeed old, she could not even begin to estimate his age, and his white hair seemed to be going in all directions and had no sense of order. The wizened eye’s that were looking at her through gold rimed pince-nez were studying her, but for what? His clothes looked well worn and covered in wood dust and other materials.

“Ah a customer.” Called the man as he started to walk towards the girl, cleaning his hands on a towel that was dirtier that his clothes.

“I’m here for…”

“You’re young.” interrupted the man as he approached.

“Eleven almost twelve sir.” Replied Gabrielle, something about the man made her say sir.

“Oh, you’re a bit early.”

“Early?”

“Yes the Hogwarts letters haven’t gone out yet. Normally I get a rush as soon as they have gone out, but you’re trying to beat the crowd?”

“I just want…” started Gabrielle trying to get back to the reason she had come in here.

“Yes a wand I know. You seem familiar but I can’t place you….” Mused Olivander drawing out a quill.

“I’m Gabrielle, Gabrielle Delacour.”

“Ah that’s it, you’re like your sister, fine girl good wand, but I’m surprised to see you here. I thought you would be going to L’Marc for your wand.”

“No I’m here in England at the moment.” Answered Gabrielle knowing that if she had still been in France she would have indeed gone to L’Marc.

“Oh very good then, it will be my pleasure to outfit you. If you don’t mind I need to take some measurements.”

Gabrielle nodded and was startled to see the tape measure leap from behind the counter and start unrolling. Olivander picked up a clipboard and started to write down the measurements that were being taken as well as starting to ask questions.

“So are you left or right handed?”

“Um… right.”

“Have a reaction to any types of wood.”

“No”

“Do you regularly have headaches?

“No.”

“Shoe size?

“2.” Answered Gabrielle not seeing the relevance.

“Prefer Skirts or trousers.”

“What?” asked a startled Gabrielle.

“How many Great Grandparents do you have?”

“Excuse me?”

“Have any of your family ever cursed a stone?”

Gabrielle looked at Olivanders face and saw that he was in deep concentration over the clipboard and was taking no interest to the questions.

“Can you swim?”

Gabrielle didn’t even bother to answer.

“Do you have a pet?”

She just waited.

Eventually the questions stopped coming and Olivander looked up from his clipboard.

“I think that’s it we just need to find the right wand.” he said as he turned and walked away into the shadows of the shelves. Gabrielle watched him move a ladder along a set of runner before proceeding up it, as he went he extracted box after box. Slowly he returned carry a small selection of boxes.

“These should do, first try this one.”

Gabrielle looked at the first. It was of long black construction with delicate carving around the handle.

“12 inches, ebony, fine unicorn hair.”

She gently grasped it and felt a slight warm sensation in her hand.

“Wave it around then.”

Feeling a little silly she did as she was told. As she waved it a small jet of flame leapt form the end.

“Nope.” Quickly said Olivander taking the wand and giving her a second one.

This one was white with carvings along the whole length.

“12 inches, Ash, Centaur tail.”

Gabrielle waved this second one and nothing happened.

“Hmm…Ok this one.” Said Olivander laying another one on the desk.

Gabrielle went to grasp this next wand and as her hand approached it she started to feel something, and something not nice. It felt almost alive and in pain.

“No not that one.” she said quickly without even grasping the wand.

“Oh that was Willow, 12 inches, dragon heart string.”

“No … it felt in pain.” Replied Gabrielle shaking her head.

“Curious.” commented Olivander. The pair of them started to move through more and more wands. Gabrielle had feelings about some of the ones she was trying and it seemed that Olivander was just giving her wands to see her reaction to them.

A she kept trying she noticed that the sizes were getting smaller and smaller.

“This one must be it. 8 ¾ inches, Ash, Unicorn Hair.” Said Olivander clearly exhausted.

Gabrielle grasped the wand quickly fearing that it would be the wrong one. A small warming sensation flooded her arm but disappeared quickly. With an almost resigned action she waved the wand. The enormous sound of an explosion from the end of the wand caused her to drop it instantly.

“That is strange. You are definably are responding to the smaller wands but that was my smallest that I do…unless?”

Olivander stopped and studied the girl. From the moment he had left the workstation he had hardly looked at the girl. Fitting a person for a new or first wand was almost second nature to him and so took very little notice of the person until he had found the right wand. But now he looked, the beauty in her face was unmistakable, rarely had he seen someone so young look so beautiful. Something about her almost pulled at him and he realised that she was different to most that walked through the door.

He had seen all types of people walk through his door, from the highest ministers to the most powerful and most feared, but rarely had one been like this girl. He had worked through many differing wand and was intrigued to see her able to sense some of the wands. It was though she could feel the core’s those that came from violent or malicious animals gave the most noticeable reaction she refused to even pick some of them up. She had a better affinity with gentle and calm creatures and the longer wands didn’t react right.

As he continued to look at the girl and her bright upturned face he realised that he did indeed have the perfect wand. Leaving the girl at the counter he retuned to his desk and looked at what he had previously thought as an unfinished wand. It was indeed far too small to be a real wand but he knew that Gabrielle was perfect for it. Not only because of the size but because of the wand core, the core came from such a young animal one that never came close to fully developing; the wand would never produce great magic.

He had wracked his brain all morning and still couldn’t come up with the design to carve upon it but he knew now that he wasn’t supposed to. The girl would never need carvings or ornaments to make her look better and this wand was going to be no different.

Taking the wand and its small protective box he returned back to Gabrielle and laid it on the counter.

“There you go Miss. Six inches, yew, the core is a golden hair from a baby Unicorn. It’s the only one I’ve ever found. It seems stable but not as powerful as some other cores but I think its right for you.”

Gabrielle looked at the plain wood in front of her. She had never seen any wand so small yet it looked perfect. The simple colours of the wood seemed to scream to her the beauty of it and slowly she reached forward her hand. Almost before she closed it over the wood she knew that this was the one, there was the same warm feeling that she had received from other wands but the closer she got to it the better it felt.

As her hand closed over the wood she felt the core within her wand. It seemed pure, clean and happy. She instantly knew that this was the right one everything about how it felt was right for her. With the gentlest of motions she waved the wand and was surprised to see a rainbow of light flow from the end.

“Yes that is indeed the one.” Comment Olivander as he saw the results I the air. The smile on Gabrielle face almost matched the bright colours as she handed over her money to pay for the wand.

**

Gabrielle bounded out of the shop still feeling the joy of her first wand and what little magic she had managed to accomplished with it. She saw that Ginny and Luna were waiting for her a little way down the street. As she approached them she could see there faces light up and realised that they could see the smile that was still plastered on her face.

“So you fond one then?” asked Ginny

“Yes look, isn’t it beautiful.” Gushed Gabrielle opening the small box and displaying the tiny wand.

“It’s so small are you sure it’s a real wand and not just a toy?”

“It’s real I did magic with it.”

“I think it suites you.” Commented Luna.

“Thanks Luna? See.” Replied Gabrielle sticking her tongue out at Ginny, who broke into laughter.

Ginny linked her arm into Gabrielle and had taken a pace forward before it happened. With the sound of thunder breaking overhead the building beside them exploded out into the busy street

**

Draco kept looking over his shoulder as he weaved his way along the street he was worried about being followed and so every so often he stopped and pretended to look into a shop window. Eventually he decided that he was not being followed and so ducked down the dark alleyway that he had been heading for.

Instantly he felt the much cooler air and dampness that was associated with this place. Walking with a purpose he headed towards the shop that he knew could help him. He had been there before with his father and so knew the way. The darkness in the alleyway did little to conceal him now, but no-one ever took notice of anything in Knocturn Ally, if they wanted to stay alive for long that is.

Approaching him were two people. Instantly Draco felt for his wand knowing that he was a prime candidate for attack as he looked wealthy. The closer he got he saw that the two men were trying to hid from his view. As he passed them he saw clearly the face of one of them before it was turned away from him. Draco took a couple more steps before he stopped and thought about what he had seen.

The face had a familiar quality to it and almost at once his mind brought up the name, Greenburg. He took one more pace before his mind showed him the other images he had seen but dismissed as he walked through Diagon Ally. He had passed at least four Death Eaters on the way here. All of them were seemingly hiding but never the less they were here. A chill ran through his body as he realised that there was going to be an attack somewhere and soon. He also understood that wherever the attack was going to be it must have some strong wards present to warrant the presence of Greenburg. Determining even more to get his business done he hurried along the Ally to his destination.

Opening the creaking door of Borgin and Burks Draco stepped in. Little had changed since he was last here even down to the fact of Borgin leaning over his ledger recording something or another.

“Ah … the younger Malfoy?” greeted the dirty haired proprietor.

Draco swallowed once thinking through what he had to do.

“I’m in need of your services.”

“Of course what is it that you had in mind a nice artefact, love potion or something more exotic?” asked Borgin closing the ledger so that Draco could not see the contents.

Draco’s mind instantly brought up some suggestions to the “more exotic” question but he fought them down so that he could do what he was here for.

“I need a repair job done.”

“Well I’m not…”

“I don’t care I need it done and you can do it. You will also tell me how.”

“You’re coming on a bit strong boy!” Chuckled Borgin.

A sudden surge of power flooded through Draco. How dare such a man question him, wasn’t he a Malfoy. He took two long strides and drew his wand; he forced it against the check of Brogin.

“You talk to me like that again and Burke will be looking for a new partner.”

Borgin could feel the heat of the wand tip as it pressed into his cheek. The sudden movement of Draco had caught him by surprise but the coldness of his words worried him even more. He had dealt with the Malfoy’s for most of his career but this was something new.

“Sss…sorry what do you need repaired.”

“A cabinet.”

“What’s wrong with it?”

“The charms have…failed.” Replied Draco stepping back and putting his wand away.

“What charms?”

“How should I know, you’re the expert.”

“Where is it?” quietly asked Borgin thinking he knew what was being asked.

“I’ll have it delivered.”

“Here, are you mad!” raged Borgin knowing if it was found the least that would happen would be the loss of his shop.

“I will get it delivered here and you will look after it, Greyback will see to it.”

“Grayback!” said a startled Borgin. He knew of the werewolf, everybody in his line of business did and none of them like working for him. But now he had both the Malfoy’s and Grayback on the same job.

“Yes him, he will oversee this end and if your instructions are useless he will make sure you understand my displeasure.”

“Of course…I’ll look forward to it.” Replied Borgin wondering what had happened to change Draco.

The explosion from the centre of Diagon Alley could be felt even this far back. Draco tilted his head to the noise and heard the follow up noises of other lighter explosions and curses.

“What’s happening?” asked Borgin looking towards the door.

“Simple, an attack, it’s alright you’ll be safe as long as I’m here.” Called Draco knowing that even though he was lying nothing he could think of would cause Greenburg to come here.

“You’re not going out there are you?”

“I’ll just wait a moment and then go.”

Draco slowly walked around the shop looking at some of the artefacts. Many of them were different than the last time he was here and few took his eye now. He knew that he was just looking round the shop for show, but it felt good to appear to be in charge of such an attack.

Even though the noise of the attack had still not stopped Draco got board of waiting with a nod towards Borgin he pulled open the door a stepped out. He saw two figures running hard down the Alley towards him; they seemed to be concentrating on the distance and not him. This was all well and good because he instantly recognised them, and wherever Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger went Harry bloody Potter wasn’t far behind. Not wanting to be found by any of them he pulled the Malfoy keys out and activated the Portkey instantly taking him away.

**

Hermione couldn’t believe the day that she was having; almost absolutely everything was going perfectly. She had walked slowly up Diagon Alley hand in hand with Ron he seemed happy and at easy with her. They had visited shops together and she was surprised that through all the time she spent in any one shop Ron never once complained.

Even now leaving Quality Quidditch supplies she couldn’t believe that Ron was being so thoughtful he had only spent ten minuets looks at the supplies before asking her if she wanted to leave. The only thing that was now on Hermione’s mind was getting Ron into a dark Alley or somewhere so she got kiss him senseless.

Hermione looked up into Ron’s face and asked.

“Where to now?”

“I don’t know.”

“How about and ice cream?”

“Um…yes that’s sounds good.”

Ron turned started towards the parlour.

“Are you enjoying the day?” he asked.

“Yes, you?”

“Perfect.” Smiled Ron walking slowly down the street. He had been very conscious of what he did all morning so far, he was trying to make the day the best he could for Hermione. The shopping hadn’t been as bad as he had assumed and everywhere he went he could see people looking at the pair of them and found he didn’t really care. The only thoughts running through his head were what a beautiful girl this was walking next to him and occasionally the more teenage thoughts of what he wanted to do to her.

After getting their Ice Creams they sat outside looking at the people rushing by.

“Mum’s being a bit awkward isn’t she?” Ventured Ron.

“A little.”

“I’m sorry.” he replied not knowing what he should be saying.

“It’s alright I think she doesn’t trust you.”

“Me why?”

“She probably thinks that you’ll take advantage of me.”

“I…I…would never.”

Hermione leaned across the table and placed a finger on Ron lips.

“I know that, she should be more worried about me taking advantage of you.”

“Wha…Wha…” stammered Ron.

“Shut up Ron and eat your Ice Cream.”

Ron looked at Hermione’s face and once more saw what a truly wonderful girl this was before retuning to his Ice Cream.

The two of the sat in silence just looking at each other for a long time. It was as though they were content just to look, for the moment.

As Hermione dabbed away the last drops from her lips she nodded towards the end of the street.

“Looks like Gabrielle just got her first wand.”

Ron turned in his chair and looked down the street. He saw the blond girl bound up the street towards Ginny and Luna.

“There’s something different about her compared to Fleur.” Said Ron.

“What do you mean?”

“She…she…doesn’t affect me.” Said Ron blushing furiously.

“That’s a bit strange, do you know what she’s doing?” asked Hermione suddenly interested in what Ron knew about the girl as her evening talks had produced very little so far.

“No, but it’s to do with Harry.”

“I know that but what?”

“I don’t know she and Ginny are very quiet about it. Whatever it is she helped Harry find Susan.”

Hermione continued to look at the little girl as she joined her friends. The mystery surrounding her was deepening and Hermione always like a good problem to solve.

“How about we go and say hello?” she asked.

“Alright.” Replied Ron standing up and extending his hand.

The shop front exploding two doors down stopped them instantly. Glass, brick, even some of the cobblestones flew in every direction. Screaming of people and the injured pierced through the noise. Ron immediately pulled Hermione close to him and turned his back giving her all the protection that he could.

“Ron!” she screamed as the pair of them slowly stood up pulling their wands out and looking down the street. Curses were lighting up the dust cloud and Hermione could see that most of them were focused towards a single point and that point was protected by some shield or something.

Her insides turned cold as she realised that the last thing she saw at that point was Gabrielle, Ginny and Luna.

“We’ve got o the help them!” she shouted at Ron over the noise and starting towards the girls. Instantly Ron’s hand grabbed her and pulled her back.

“No… it’s too dangerous!” he shouted with a little bit of panic in his voice.

“What! That’s your sister over there.” Said Hermione looking at Ron not believing what she had heard.

“I know, but they will be expecting us to go that way.” Said Ron pointing towards the slowly clearing dust cloud and fighting beyond it. “…but if we go round the back through Knockturn Alley we could surprise them.”

Hermione looked over her shoulder and saw that Ron was right, quickly leaning forward she pecked his cheek.

“I Love you Ron. Let’s go!”

Ron grabbed Hermione’s hand and sprinted into the darkness of Knockturn alley. His heart was pounding in his ears and his hands were sweaty but the dash through the darkness holding Hermione’s hand was like joy to him.

They turned a corner and were now running parallel to the battle but Ron could hear Hermione’s breath start to labour. He chilled himself in not remembering that she wasn’t a sporty person and so all this running was going to affect her first. Slowing the pace slightly he could hear Hermione regain her breath slightly.

“I’ve think we’ve come far enough, up this one.” He called out as he turned into the next alleyway.

Hermione was having trouble keeping up but the change of pace by Ron had helped a large amount. As they rounded the last bend she could see the battle still raging at the end of the alleyway. A small bell indicated that one of the shop doors in front of them was opening. A young man stepped out and Hermione sudden thought that she knew him. With a quick movement this newcomer turned away and then disappeared from sight.

“Did you see who that was?” Hermione called.

“No, it doesn’t matter now we are almost there.”

Hermione nodded and stored away the image until she could have more time to think about it.

**

“Mr Potter, your vault is ready.” Spoke the voice of the new goblin. Harry looked up at this newcomer and saw what he thought was a more ancient but remarkably well dressed goblin. He realised that this goblin was a senior member of the organisation by the way that both Fleur and Bill jumped to their feet.

“I’m sorry it took so long but if you follow now I’ll take you personally to your vault.”

“Thank you very much…?” replied Harry

“This way then.” Indicated the goblin stepping out into the corridor ignoring the implied question.

Harry walked out first closely followed Remus with Bill and Fleur looking nervous behind. The way that the employee seemed to part in front of was a bit strange and so he slowed his pace until he was level with Bill.

“Who is he?”

“You don’t know.”

“No.” replied Harry trying not to get irritated.

“That’s Pugsilver Gingott, one of the brothers that own the bank.”

“Oh.” Was all the reply the Harry could manage.

They continued to follow Pugsilver until he came to the familiar carts. The small goblin looked at the cart and then climbed into one. Harry and rest quickly followed suit. Pressed between Remus and the side of the cart was not going to be one of Harry’s best memories but he did remember that the cart ride was much shorter than normal. Climbing out he studied the door in front of him.

He had seen massive doors before but this was one of the largest and most imposing that he had ever seen. It was no where near the size of the main doors into Hogwarts but the sheer size of it was impressive. The flat almost glass like front showed no handle or even key hole.

“Key please?” asked Pugsilver holding out his hand.

Harry pressed the key into the goblins hand and waited. Pugsilver walked slowly up to the door and rested his hand on the surface. He gently ran his and along until a very small key hole was revealed. He inserted the key and then turned it both clockwise and anti-clockwise an uncountable number of times.

A small hiss was heard from the side of the door and dust flew up as it began to swing open. As the door gained momentum Pugsilver turned back towards Harry.

“Your Vault sir. I will leave you with your friends. Just enter the cart when ready and it will take you back. If you need any other service please contact me.” Said the goblin and bowing deeply.

Harry quickly bowed in response, thanking him for his time and watched him climb into a newly arrived cart which looked much bigger and plusher than the one they had arrived in. Silently he turned and entered the vault. By some unspoken agreement none of the other followed they all stood outside on the small platform waiting for Harry.

He had seen piles of gold before but nothing like what was in front of him now. It wasn’t that there was a vast amount of it (which there was). It was the disarray he was looking at. Everything looked too be strewn around the vault in no order. Most of the money was in piles but not neat ones they just seemed to be heaped around. He could also see other items within this vault; whole pieces of furniture seemed to be poking out of various places. He took a few steps in and saw at his feet a small satchel, picking it up he saw that it was new and free from dust. Flipping it open he saw that it was filled with parchment and other documents.

Pulling the first piece of parchment out he read the name 12 Grimmauld Place at the top and realised that it was probably the deed to the house. He let the document and the satchel drop to the floor and walked towards the first pile of gold. Squatting down he reach forward into the pile and lifted a handful up. As he let the coin flow through his fingers he realised what all this was.

“I don’t want this.” He called out. But only a faint echo replied.

“I never wanted this!” He shouted into the lifeless empty vault.

Remus entered the vault knelt beside Harry but didn’t know what to say.

“I don’t want this.” Whispered Harry once more.

“I know.”

Harry turned and looked straight at Remus oblivious to the tears forming in his eyes.

“Why?” he asked Remus searching for an answer.

“They had too, they wanted too.” He answered.

“But everyone’s turned into cold hard lifeless gold.”

“Gold?”

“Yes everyone that…that…I need has turned to gold.” Cried Harry letting the tears flow.

“But they are not gone Harry. You will always have apart of them with you.”

“But…but…” cried Harry.

“It’s alright to cry Harry, let you emotions out.”

“I can’t, not now.” Sniffed Harry.

“Why?”

“It’ll hurt the others.”

“Others?”

“Gabrielle and…” started Harry but he suddenly realised what he was about to say.

“Harry?” questioned Remus

“It’s alright Remus … I’m better now.” Said Harry pulling himself up. “We should be going.” He called out as he turned and walked out of the vault.

Fleur Looked at Harry as he walked by, she could see that he was keeping his emotions in check again and wondered for how long it would last.

“What’s that noise?” asked Remus joining them.

Bill strained his ears and could hear a faint noise it only took him a second to place it.

“It’s the alarm. Something’s happening outside!” he shouted sprinting for the cart.

**

Greenburg stood with McNair looking out onto the main street. After the dash past Draco he thought that they would start straight away, but they waited instead. From the darkness he continued to look at the passers by. He could see two others of the team across the way but that was all. Every minute that he stood there his heart raced faster and faster.

“How much longer?”

“Not much longer.”

He closed his eye and tried to remember the plan, diversion, snatch and then disapparate. It sounded so simple yet he was gambling his life on it. He felt a nudge on his arm and snapped open his eyes to see McNair already striding out into the sun light. He quickly followed and the two of them moved with purpose towards the wandmakers shop. From the other direction he saw two others step out from an alley and walk towards the shop like them.

As he reached the front of the shop he saw McNair look over to one side a nod once. Greenburg knew what was coming but couldn’t stop himself from cringing when it happened.

A group of four Death Eaters turned in unison and fired as one into the front of a near by shop and sent a second stream of curses at the spotted Ministry Officials. The front of the building was instantly obliterated sending rubble and smoke in all direction, and the four Ministry Officers dropped to the floor stunned. Before anybody had time to react more and more curses were being fired around Diagon Alley. They weren’t really directed they were there just to cause damage and panic.

Ignoring all of this Greenburg followed the others into the shop knowing that the group left outside were causing the distraction that they needed. As the door closed behind him he heard the tinkering of the bell and instantly remembered the day he first came here for his wand. Now he was here for something completely different.

Olivander walked into view and McNair and the other two pulled out there wands.

“Come with me, your Lord want’s to talk to you.”

“Interesting.” Replied Olivander stopping in his tracks.

“Stop stalling.” Said the largest member of the group.

“Is that you Goyle?” asked Olivander still not moving.

“Come now or I’ll hurt you.” Called out Goyle.

Greenburg saw the old man’s face crease in a small smile. Instantly his mind tried to understand what was happening. Even the most simple of people would understand that Olivander had nothing to smile at, yet he was. Slowly drawing his wand Greenburg looked round to see if he could see the reason for the smile.

“Now, now Goyle, you threaten the Wandmaker in his own shop, with his own wand?”

“We don’t have time for this.” Called out Glen, the last member of the group.

Greenburg looked at the wand in his hand and suddenly understood. A cold feeling washed over him as he realised the mistake he had just made. “Wait.” he called out but was too late.

“Stuperfy!” shouted Glen, but instead of a straight red beam of light coming out of his wand, his wand literally exploded in his hand with a bright flash of painful red light. Greenburg had tuned his back to the light and noise but he heard the sickening noise of Glen hitting the shelves and collapsing to the floor.

“What the…?” called out McNair from across the shop.

“Don’t use magic!” called out Greenburg as he tried to understand what Olivander had done to the wands.

“Ok, Goyle grab Olivander let’s get the hell out of here.” Replied McNair looking at the sprawled form of Glen.

Olivander hadn’t even moved and didn’t even react when the large man grabbed him.

McNair looked at the still form of Greenburg and saw the younger man look round the shop more closely. This operation was getting worse and worse but his instincts told him that there was more to come.

“What’s up now?” he called.

“I don’t think we can leave, Olivander seems too calm.”

“Yeah right.” Grumbled Goyle dragging the Wandmaker to the door.

McNair quickly stepped in front of the large man and held out an arm to stop him. Slowly almost fearfully he reached out for the door handle. As his fingers closed over the cold metal he began to feel the sudden increase in temperature and what felt like some shield.

“The door’s warded.” he said to the room at large.

“You were supposed to stop all of this!” demanded Goyle looking at Greenburg.

“As I said all I could detect what was on the outside, inside was still going to be a mystery.”

“Can you get us out of here?” asked McNair by the door looking out into the street. The fighting was still going on but he knew that it wouldn’t last much longer.

“I’ll see.” Replied Greenburg looking at the wand in his hand. Swallowing once he cast the same spell he had used on the outside. With relief he saw the patterns of the wards and other spells begin to take shape.

The intricate patterns and lines were like nothing he had ever seen before. Some of what he saw showed him the age of what he was dealing with but there were layers upon layers of magic woven in and around them all.

“This could take time.” He called out as a warning, still trying to see where or even if he could start.

“Work quickly then.” commanded McNair still looking out through the window.

**

The force of the explosion had thrown Ginny, Gabrielle and Luna to the ground, the dust and debris was flying all around the three of them. Almost as one Luna and Ginny pulled out their wands and searched for the cause. As they gingerly got to their feet they both saw the lights of curses and hexes being fired. None were of the deathly green colour they had seen before but it was of little comfort.

Conjuring shields they both started to look round to try and spot any of the attackers. Almost at once a curse rebounded off of Ginny’s shield and she felt he arm buckle slightly from the force. It was almost like a signal to the others as steadily more and more curses came their way.

Peering through the dust Ginny could see several figures standing still in the street firing at them and virtually anything else. It was as though they weren’t really aiming just firing a quick as they can. The screams of the injured behind them told her that there were a least some people still inside of the building when it exploded.

“We can’t stay here forever.” Shouted Luna over the noise.

“We have too!” replied Ginny looking round at the frightened shoppers who were either too scared or didn’t know what to do. Quickly fearing that she had forgotten about Gabrielle she looked round only to find the young girl still crouched on the floor but she was holding her impossibly small wand. Ginny didn’t know what she could do with it but it was a comfort that at least she was trying to help.

“Ginny we really have to move now!” shouted Luna again as another powerful beam hit the shield she had conjured causing both it and her to buckle.

“Ok…ok… let’s move back towards the building it looks stable.”

“Fine!” replied Luna taking a step backwards.

Gabrielle seemed to scamper off the ruins and into the shop first. There were people here most of them were hiding but some were lying on the floor obviously injured. Ginny and Luna both filed the hole in the wall and tried to take stock of what was happening.

“Gabrielle see what you can do for the injured. The rest of you if you can’t help then get behind cover!” called out Ginny after looking behind her. In the DA they had been taught many different spells and what to do in a fight but this was different. She had expected to be fighting one on one with some bad person but this was not it. Inside she wanted to jump out into the street and start to fight back but looking around she saw that many older people were looking towards her and Luna for reassurance.

“I don’t know what to do.” called Gabrielle as she looked at the first person.

“Nor do I, but do what you can anyway.” Replied Ginny ducking as another curse hit the building above where she was standing.

Gabrielle looked at the people around her and did the only thing that she knew what to do; she started to gently talk to each one. Ever so slowly she managed to calm the people down enough that they started to think. Every time she approached a person she could feel the emotions running off of them and using her ability and her soft voice she calmed them as much as she could.

A brick felt and broke at Luna’s feet causing her to look at her friend.

“This isn’t much better than out there.”

“I know but help should be here soon.”

“Help?”

“Yes they’re out there, we just have to wait.” She answered hoping that she was right.

**

Ron paused at the exit to the Alleyway, Hermione slipped her hand into his again and gentle squeezed it. To the pair of them not much had changed but from this position they could clearly see one of the attackers. He was standing in the centre of the street firing in all direction. Hermione noticed first that not like any previous attacks this person wasn’t wearing any mask.

“Ron he’s not a Death Eater.”

“What do you mean?” replied Ron looking at the situation. It wasn’t as bad as he had feared, in fact there was lot’s of panic and spells, but very little destruction and he couldn’t see any bodies at all.

“He’s not wearing a mask or the black robes.” Answered Hermione

“Yes and look there’s hardly any damage, it’s like he just trying to panic people.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know but we had better stop it before he does something really bad.”

Hermione squeezed Ron’s hand once more before she let go. He turned too looked at her and flashed a small smile, but before he could turn back Hermione closed the gap and crushed her lips against his. The kiss was quick but no less intense than their others had been. With silent coordination the pair of them dashed out from the alleyway and fired stunners at the man standing in the centre of the street.

The man crumpled to the floor with no sound as the two curses hit almost simultaneously. Ron and Hermione continued to move towards the fighting and saw a second and attacked. He like the first was firing widely at the buildings and like the first feel to the ground as both Hermione’s and Ron’s stunners hit him as well.

Pausing behind some fallen brickwork the pair of them saw the last two attackers. They were crouched opposite Olivander’s and were directing curses mainly down the Alleyway. Ron peered through the dust and smoke at what they were firing at and saw his sister and Luan standing in a shop front deflecting curses away. A small drop of fear rested in his stomach as we watched his sister but knew the best he could do was to take these last two out.

“There’s two left opposite Olivanders.” He said.

Hermione looked round the rubble to see if she could spot them as well.

“What shall we do?”

“Fire at them, to see if we can distract them from Ginny and the rest.”

“Not much of a plan Ron.”

“It’s the best I’ve got at the moment.”

“Ok then, but I still don’t like it.” Replied Hermione raising up and firing curses at the two attackers that were left.


**

Molly almost dropped the tea cup she was drinking from when the explosion sounded. She had done the small amount of shopping that she needed to do and was waiting for the rest to return back to the Leaky Cauldron. She knew that they would try and spend most of the day shopping and so was just trying to relax with a cup of tea whilst she waited.

The explosion brought back most of her fears almost instantly. The other patrons all looked round and realising what was happening started to make a dash for the public floo’s or just the door but she had family out their in the street, she had to help. Plunging her hand into her bag she withdrew her wand and started to move towards Diagon Alley.

It was like wading upstream through a river but eventually she made it outside. She could still see many people running towards her but none had the familiar red head of hair. The flashes in the distance told her where the danger was and she just knew that was where she would find her family.

As she drew nearer she slowed her pace. She was like most in the Order not a fighter she could defend herself but this wasn’t something she knew about. The dust and smoke were clouding her view of everything but in an instant she saw what she had feared. The curses were still flying in all directions but most seemed to be hitting buildings around her but a few did seem to be aimed and they were aimed at two standing figures.

Even from the distance she knew who they were, any mother knows her daughter and there she was. Standing side by side with Luna at the front of a shop. Curses randomly flying at them but they were standing there tall almost unafraid as their shield withstood the incoming magic.

Molly continued to watch the scene as her little girl was standing there with no fear no nothing just tall and proud. Molly had never wanted to believe anything people had said about her; she was always her little girl in her mind. But seeing Ginny like this brought home that fact that she wasn’t a little girl anymore, she was standing there like any adult trying to protect others.

As she marvelled at what her daughter was doing two figures, hand in hand, burst from the Alleyway in front and started to fire there own curses at the attackers. Once more all the Molly could do was stand there at watch as both Ron and Hermione disabled not just one but a second attacker almost at once. The two of them seemed oblivious to those around them they just kept moving forward into the fight.

**

Bill leapt from the cart even before it had stopped moving and was sprinting for the main doors. Fleur, Harry and Remus weren’t far behind and managed to catch up to him as he was shouting at the security trolls and goblins by the front doors.

“We’ve got to help!”

“I’m sorry you can’t” replied one of the goblins.

“But we must.”

“No! We have to protect the bank, no one can leave.”

“But…but….”

“It’s no use Bill you know the rules.” Replied the Goblin in much softer voice.

Bill turned and looked at the group. He knew the Goblin was right, for the past few months he had been at the meetings discussing about the banks security, in fact he had helped organise some of the newer wards but he never thought that he would be stuck inside when his family was outside.

“Why can’t we leave?” asked Fleur quietly.

“The banks been locked down. It happened when there is an attack we can’t leave.”

“Why not?” questioned Remus.

“It’s the wards nothing in, nothing out.”

“But Gabrielle is out there, we must help her I must help her I promised Papa.” Cried Fleur, flinging herself at Bill.

“I know Fleur, but we can’t its impossible.” He said holding Fleur close thinking that most of his family was also out there.

Harry looked and Remus who just shrugged his shoulders before saying.

“If Bill say’s we can’t leave then we can’t Harry.”

Harry continued to look at his old professor and then at Bill and Fleur. Like them he wanted to run out and help them. His friends were out there and he was stuck in here helpless. But his insides were churning; he had to know if they were fine. Closing his eyes he calmed his emotions, the thoughts of Gabrielle and Ginny in the fight did not help but eventually he felt right.

He slowly focused his mind first on Gabrielle, he didn’t know if it would work but Gabrielle had done the same to him so he thought he must be able to do the same. It was a strange feeling it was like having two sets of emotions but he knew that one of them wasn’t his. He could feel that she was scared, yet determined. As he strained more and more to understand these feeling it was as though he knew she was safe.

He tried to focus on Ginny next, he found this much harder he felt less from her but there was something. She was standing, protecting, determined to do what Harry would want her to do. The sudden shock of realisation broke the tenuous contact and his eyes snapped open.

“They’re safe.” He called out.

“What?” asked Bill.

“Ginny, Gabrielle they are both safe.”

“How do you know?” he asked

“Um…I just do.” Harry replied not looking Bill in the eye.

“You sure?” asked Fleur gently.

“Yes.” He quietly replied.

Fleur visibly relaxed at the news. Bill still didn’t believe what Harry had said but seeing Fleur’s reaction he knew that Fleur was keeping more about herself and Gabrielle from him and so he shot Fleur a look that said ‘this isn’t over yet’


**

“We have to go NOW!” demanded McNair. As he saw first one then a second person drop in front of him. The attackers outside were doing what they had been told to do but everything was taking far too long. By now all of them should have reported back, the attack had been going almost five minuets and soon the Auror’s would be arriving and if they did getting out with Olivander would become almost impossible.

Greenburg ignored the demands as he continued to work on the door, he had stripped cusre after curse away from it and still more seemed to be appearing. Everything inside of him was telling him that what he was seeing the most complex and beautiful thing he had ever seen yet time was running out. Only a few times in the past was time ever a problem and most of them were easy but this time it was very different.

He glanced over at the old man and saw that was just standing in Goyles grasp very calmly. It was almost as if he was challenging him, showing him who was the best. Pointing his wand at the anchor of yet another ward he stripped it off but instantly saw that yet more was revelled underneath.

“It’s…it’s far too complex.” He called out.

“What do you mean?”

“It’s too complex for me to get through in the time we’ve got.”

“Do something else then!” yelled McNair.

Franticly Greenburg cast spell after spell, he pumped more and more energy into the door. He stopped checking after every attempt and just kept going. Every anchor so far had been in the door frame and so trusting his instinct he pumped as much magical energy as he could into it. The frame started to glow a bright orange as the anchor points started to fail.

“When this goes, run for it. It should make a hold big enough in the wards for us to get through.”

“Ok you go first then Goyle I’ll drag Glen with me.”

“Fine.” Shouted Greenburg as the door frame now wined in protest. He looked over at the Wandmaker and saw a small spark of fear in his eyes. Yes Greenburg had won, he was the best and this Wandmaker knew it. A thunderous clap announced the wards collapsing on the door. Greenburg didn’t even wait a heartbeat, he suspected that other wards would stretch and cover the newly formed gap and so grasped the handle.

Immense heat flooded his hand yet he still held on, ignoring the pain he pulled the door open. He could feel the resistance in the door as he pulled; with the might borne of desperation he wrenched open the door. Stumbling out into the street he turned and waited for the others.

Goyle bowled out through the door with Olivander tightly held against him, with only the slightest nod he disappaerated away. Greenburg stood there waiting for McNair for what seemed a life time but in reality was seconds. The man appeared dragging the still unconscious form with him. McNair turned when he was through and continued to pull the body but it seemed to stick once and then a second time.

“It’s no use we have to go.” Called Greenburg as he saw what was happening, the wards had covered the newly formed gap, if Glen was lucky he would only be trapped.

McNair looked up and then was gone. Greenburg was left alone in the street the two attackers left outside had already disapparated. A grim silence started to descend, fearing even more for his life Greenburg turned once and disappeared leaving behind the scene of destruction.