FicWad

8: FRIENDS REUNITED
Christine Thompson, Head of the Canadian Department of Magical Law Enforcement, stepped into her office later that Friday morning, to find her British counterpart waiting, along with several others. She had dealt with Amelia Bones on numerous occasions, all of which involving stray Death Eaters or other such undesirables entering Canadian soil.

Today, it was all about jurisdiction. The Canadian ministry DID have the authority to arrest foreign nationals, but they DID NOT have the rights to actually prosecute. So, it was a matter of Christine trying to convince Amelia there was substance to the charges, to ensure Dumbledore would actually face a trial. It was most certainly an uphill battle, considering Amelia and Albus were friends.

At 10 am, both respective department heads were in the same court room where Harry's emancipation hearing had been held the day before. Incidentally, it was the same judge.
"Before I order the extradition of the prisoner, I must ask, does the English Ministry plan on proceeding with charges against the defendant?"
"As much as I disagree," Amelia began, "I am swayed by the evidence presented to me. Albus Dumbledore will face the Wizengamot regarding these charges."
"Very well, I am satisfied with your answer," Said Justice Anne Coulter, "It is then the order of this Wizard court, that Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore be turned over to the custody of Aurors representing the British Ministry of Magic, forthwith, and be deported from Canada."
"Your honour, it is also the intention of the ministry to apply to this court, to have the defendant declared an undesirable, and for him to be effectively be banned from re-entering Canadian soil."
"So noted," Said Anne, banging her gavel.

On the way down to the ministry holding cells, Amelia brought up the next topic: Harry Potter.
"Christine, my next concern is about Harry Potter. I do understand…"
"This is EXACTLY the issue in the centre of the argument, Amelia," Said Christine coldly, "The boy has had a NIGHTMARE of an existence, he just wants to be left alone, can he be any more clear than that?"
"Albus was only doing what he felt was best."
"His best wasn't good enough. Even I know how important Harry is to the fight against Voldemort. Yet, he deserved to be better treated than he was, and even you have to admit that. Trust me when I say, we will not allow your ministry of magic to interfere any further," Christine warned. Amelia only nodded. "Cornelius is pleased, if anything, that Harry has left the country. I'm sure you are aware of the smear campaign he ran against the boy last year."
"Another horrible blunder toward him. Cornelius Fudge has done nothing for Wizarding Britain, and if anything is a contributing factor for things becoming as bad as they are. His lack of action doesn't do anyone any good, and if anything, leaves your ministry wide-open to Voldemort."
"There are many who would agree with you on that, me included. There are rumblings he may be sacked in the near future, for exactly your sentiments," Said Amelia.
"The sooner, the better. English wizards need strong leadership right now, not some weak-kneed puppet."
"Back to Harry, though. Does the Canadian ministry plan on assisting in his training, and so on?"
"Angela's given him an offer of support, whatever he needs, within reason, in effect. I have a feeling he will not accept anything from the British ministry, what I draw from the minister's informal conversation with him yesterday," Said Christine. Amelia only nodded in understanding.

Arriving at the holding cell containing Albus Dumbledore, the respective department heads again faced each other. "Once again, the Canadian Ministry does offer whatever support we can."
"Thank you, Christine," Said Amelia. She turned to the cell. "Well, Albus, this is quite the predicament you've gotten yourself into."
"Amelia," Said Albus, applying his customary grandfatherly face.
"Don't 'Amelia' me, Albus, you have a world of explaining to do. I'm appalled by the testimony my department counterpart here has shown me."
"Amelia, you must understand…"
"Enough," Said Amelia, "Consider yourself under arrest."

It took less than 15 minutes for the British wizards to complete the transfer, then take the international floo back to the British Ministry of Magic.
"I'm sorry, Amelia," Began Albus.
"Oh, sorry is not…" She did not finish, as the old wizard blasted her and her colleagues against a wall with powerful, wand-less(1) magic. He then vanished, and made quick his escape from the Ministry. From there, he apparated directly to No. 12, Grimmauld Place. He knew he would then be regarded as a fugitive, but it was still better than being locked up in a ministry holding cell, or worse, Azkaban. How could he undo all the 'damage', though? The Order needed Harry Potter in England, not 4000 miles away. And where is that blasted bird? He thought to himself, as he stepped into the house. He had not seen Fawkes since he had been sent off with the letter to Harry on Monday.

oOo
While Albus was at last reunited with the Order of the Phoenix at Grimmauld Place, Harry was just stirring, said 4000 miles away, the light of mid-morning pouring through the cracks of the closed curtains which enclosed the canopy bed. A smile tugged at his lips, as he found himself hopelessly tangled with the other occupant of the bed, the man he had only hours earlier confessed his love for. No doubt about it, he still had many very real fears about allowing himself to love again. Yet, it still fell back to what Travis had said to him the day before. It seemed Frank was able to easily break through all those walls he had built up around himself, with the death of Cedric, and more recently, the death of Sirius. He silently wondered to himself if Occlumency would have helped, then shrugged it off. Occlumency. He had to start reading that book. The sooner he learned that, the better.

Something else dawned on him. No nightmares. No Voldemort. No seeing his godfather fall through the veil. In fact, he didn't remember his dreams at all. He had truly slept soundly, for the first time in months. I guess it's another benefit of letting myself love someone again, he thought. Yet, he didn't remember the same thing happening the few nights he had slept with Cedric. Although the circumstances were very different as well. Cedric was 3 years older than he was, and it was dicey as it was to have any kind of relationship, let alone sleep with each other.

Of course, even now, Frank was 10 years older than he was. How was THAT to work? Although then again, Harry thought, I'm also considered an adult, so it won't matter. After all, it did feel so good to have someone lying beside him again. He reached over with his free hand, and ran it through the tuft of long hair that fell across Frank's face.

He remembered the first time seeing Frank. Initially, he thought he looked rather amusing. He had certainly seen the punk look before, but had never known anyone who looked and dressed that way. What's Hermione gonna think, he wondered, another smile forming at his lips, as he ran his fingers gently along Frank's jaw. It was a little rough, as he had not shaven in a couple of days… not that Harry really cared. He wiggled closer, and planted a soft kiss on his cheek. "Frankie?"
"Wha?" Frank moaned, his eyes fluttering open. A smile broke out on his face, the memories of earlier that morning flooding his head.
"I, err, need to get up, and…"
"Oh," Frank said, realizing the predicament. They untangled themselves, and Harry sat up, pulling the curtain open. Travis was sitting at his desk, doing something on the computer… and there was a strange bird, sitting on the desk beside his own bed.
"Um… Travis? Whose bird is that?"
"I think he's from the ministry, Harry," Answered Travis, looking up from the screen, "Shit," He cursed, looking back at the screen, "This is the zillionth time I've died in here!"
"Died?"
"Oh, it's a computer game," Answered Travis, gesturing to the screen, and blowing a breath, "Frustrating as hell sometimes. By the way, what are you doing in Frank's bed again?"
"Um, well, I don't know how I got there, but…"
"No one's complaining," Said Frank, sliding out so he was also sitting on the side of the bed.
"Guess I better retrieve my mail. How long has he been waiting?"
"I don't know," Said Travis, "He was here when I woke up. Oh, and Frank, the guys are downstairs. I guess they're writing or something."
"Cool, thanks," Said Frank, as Harry stood up. He went over to his own bed, and retrieved the letter from the ministry owl, who hooted at him indignantly.
"Yes, thank you," Said Harry, "Sorry… to keep you waiting." The bird ruffled its feathers, then took off, soaring up through the opening in the rafters, vanishing through the vent in the roof. Harry looked at the seal, and his heart started racing. On one side, was the seal of the British Ministry of Magic. On the other, was the seal of Hogwarts. It meant only one thing: OWL results.
"Well, Harry, what is it?" Asked Travis.
"OWL results, I think," Answered Harry, his hands trembling with the letter he now held in his hand.
"Well, are you gonna open it, or just stare at it?" Asked Travis. Harry plopped back on the bed beside Frank, and pulled open the envelope.

ORDINARY WIZARDING LEVEL RESULTS
Pass Grades:
Outstanding (O)
Exceeds Expectations (E)
Acceptable (A)

Fail Grades:
Poor (P)
Dreadful (D)
Troll (T)

HARRY JAMES POTTER HAS ACHIEVED:
Astronomy: A
Care of Magical Creatures: E
Charms: E
Defence against the Dark Arts: O
Divination: P
Herbology: E
History of Magic: D
Potions: E
Transfiguration: E (2)

"Well, how'd ya do?" Travis prompted.
"Better than expected," Said Harry, "I got outstanding in Dark Arts Defence." He passed Travis the parchment.
"Damn, Harry, with scores like this, the world's your oyster, man," Said Travis, passing the parchment back.
"Good morning, Harry, dear," Said Lily from the portrait.
"Hi mum," Said Harry, with a grin, "I got my OWL scores back."
"Well, how did you do?" Asked James.
"Better than expected, I guess."
"He guesses," Said Travis, "Holy fuck, 5 exceeds expectations, one Outstanding, that's awesome."
"Well done, son," Said James, "Where did you score an 'O'?"
"Dark arts defence," Answered Harry, "I mean, I've had more than enough experience and all."
"I'm sure you have," Said Lily.
"Ok, I know what astronomy is, but what are the other ones?" Asked Frank.
"Care of magical creatures… we're taught about magical creatures, and of course how to take care of them," Said Harry, "Charms, well, you remember the tickling charm I put on you?" Frank nodded. "That's the kind of things we learn in that class…"

Harry continued to explain the basic concepts of his various courses, for the next half-hour, with help from his parents and Travis. Frank took great interest in the descriptions, and it was by no means just for show. He found the magical world fascinating.

Once Harry had gotten cleaned up, it was then time to introduce Lisa to Dobby and Winky. It went much smoother than he expected, as Lisa accepted both warmly. Winky instantly disappeared, while Dobby started at once puttering about the kitchen.
"I should warn you, you won't get your kitchen back until I leave," Said Harry, with a laugh. Lisa only smiled at that.
"Will they also be doing the shopping, or do I still have to worry about that?"
"I've given Dobby my vault key, he's got free reign. I guess, if you want something or need something, just let him know," Answered Harry.
"You sure that's a good idea, Harry?" Asked Travis.
"I would trust Dobby with my life," Answered Harry, taking a seat at the table. He had brought with him a stack of parchment and a pen, along with his OWL results.
"Why not just get a notepad?" Asked Lisa, gesturing to the loose pages.
"Habit, I guess," Answered Harry, "Um, Travis, you wouldn't know a copying spell, by any chance?"
"Sure," Answered Travis. Harry produced the parchment with his OWL results, and Travis drew his wand. "Planto Effingo(3)," He said, while making a motion with his wand. An identical copy of the parchment appeared to the right of the original.
"Show me the motion again?"
"Sure," Said Travis, and again made the movement with his wand. Harry drew his own wand, and mimicked Travis' movements. "Planto Effingo." He was pleased, as a second copy appeared on top of the first.
"Nice one, Harry."
"Not quite as good as Hermione, but it'll do," Said Harry, inspecting his copy, "I mean, I did get an E in Charms."
"Yeah, that you did," Said Travis.
"Your OWL results, dear?" Asked Lisa.
"Yeah, an owl was waiting for me when I woke up," Said Harry, passing Lisa a copy. She looked it over quickly, and gave Harry a smile. "Well done. Have you shown your parents yet?"
"Yeah, they're proud of me," Said Harry, "Merlin, it felt so great for me to be able to share that with them. They're in a portrait, but at least now I can share…"
"We understand dear," Said Lisa. Harry nodded, and began writing another set of letters. The first, was to the twins. If he had his way, there would be two extra guests in the house before lunch time.
"Lisa, I know you said it was okay for me to invite Ron and Hermione… is it…"
"We have loads of room, Harry," Said Travis, "And we can always make more." He twirled his wand in his fingers, giving a sly smile.
"Now boys, I will not have the house turned completely upside down…" Lisa started.
"Now what gave you that idea, mum?" Asked Travis, innocently. Harry only grinned at that, reminded of the two individuals he was about to send a letter to.

Although there wasn't a whole lot he wanted to say, it still took him to nearly lunch time before he was able to send off the letter. He returned to the room, where Fawkes was again resting on his perch, and offered him the letter. "This is for Fred and George, Ok? Do you mind bringing them back with you if they agree?" Asked Harry. The bird seemed to nod a 'yes'. "Great. Off you go, then." The bird vanished in a flash of flames. He then went back out to the deck, where most of the others had gathered, for a light lunch. Travis had brought out a radio, and it was then playing some punk band Harry had never heard before. It did remind him of the music My Chemical Romance played.

He brought along the pages of parchment, as he wanted to have letters ready for Ron and Hermione when Fawkes returned. As he wrote, he for the most part tuned out the conversations going on around him. If anything, he was looking forward to seeing his best friends again. There would be a better chance of it if Fred and George got there first, of course. Less of a chance of Mrs. Weasley saying 'no'. Hermione, likely, would get permission from her parents fairly easily, considering she was muggle-born.
"Harry, you Ok?" He heard Frank ask, as a hand slid around his shoulder, and gave it a squeeze.
"Yeah, I'm fine," Answered Harry, putting the pen down, "S-sorry, I was just… just in my own thoughts."
"I was saying, Harry, if you plan to go to Nipigon in September, you'll need to get an application in before the end of this month," Said Lisa. Harry only nodded.

Suddenly, there was a large flash of flame, and Fawkes appeared near the patio door, along with two red-headed, identical twins. Both smiled broadly on sight of Harry. "Harry, mate!" One of them exclaimed.
"Hi George," Said Harry, standing. The three of them shook hands.
"That was brilliant, having Fawkes deliver us, mate," Said Fred.
"Well, I saw Dumbledore do it last year, so I got to thinking, why not?" Answered Harry. Both twins nodded, looking around at their new surroundings.
"Um, Lisa, Travis, Frankie… this is Fred and George Weasley," Harry introduced.
"Come join us," Lisa invited, "We were just having lunch."
"Lunch, is it? Merlin, we were about to order supper," Said Fred, as the two twins took a seat at the table.
"We're gonna have to expand the table again, I think," Said Travis, "Especially if Harry gets his other friends here?"
"Other friends?" Asked George.
"Ron and Hermione, of course," Answered Harry. Both twins nodded in understanding.
"Mum's not gonna like that, Harry," Said Fred.
"Even if you guys are here?"
"Harry, you KNOW what our mum's like," Said George. Harry only smiled and nodded.
"So who are the rest of you?" Asked Fred.
"Shit, sorry guys," Said Travis, "That's Gerard, Mikey, Ray, Bob, and Adam. And that's Frank sitting beside Harry."
"They're a muggle punk band," Said Harry.
"My Chemical Romance. We've heard of you guys," Said Fred, taking a roll from a plate at the centre of the table.
"Ok, rule number one," Said Harry, "Whatever you do, DO NOT accept anything edible from these two." He gave the twins an mischievous smirk.
"Now why…" George began.
"…would our business partner…" Fred continued.
"…say something like that?" They both said.
"Oh, I don't know… Maybe it was the chocolate frog that made me turn completely pink for an hour… or the other one that made hair come out of my nose down to my waist. Then there was themmffff." Fred covered Harry's mouth before he could continue, giving a wicked smile of his own.
"Well, they DO run a prank shop, Harry," Said Travis.
"You know of our shop?" Asked George.
"I have my sources," Answered Travis wryly.
"Hey Forge, if we're already known over here, perhaps we should look into possibly expanding."
"I couldn't agree more, Gred."
"Without Zonko's as competition…" George began.
"We could make double the business…" Fred continued.
"Here in Canada!" Both finished. That made Frank laugh. "You guys always finish each others' sentences?"
"Absolutely…" Said Fred.
"No question." George finished, making Frank laugh again. Just then, Winky appeared, bringing a ringing cordless phone. She had a confused look on her face.
"I'll take that, Winky," Said Lisa. The house elf handed Lisa the noisy instrument, and popped away. Both Fred and George looked at it quizzically too. Lisa pressed a button on the handset. "Hello? …yes… one second…" She covered part of it with her hand. "Frank, it's for you."
"Thanks," Said Frank, as Lisa handed the phone down the table. As soon as he knew who it was, he got up, and went into the house.
"Is that…" Fred began.
"…a fellytone?" George finished. Gerard snorted and tried not to laugh.
"Telephone, guys," Said Harry, "And yeah, it is." He paused, giving Gerard a serious look. "Guys, most pure-blood witches and wizards in England have no clue about muggle devices. So give them a break, ok?"
"Sorry," Said Gerard, quickly understanding.
"Another example as to how backwards things truly are over there… I mean, no insult intended," Said Lisa, "I still can't understand why."
"It's the pure-blood supremacy rubbish, that's all it is. Most wizard families are so afraid of muggles and the technology that goes with it, I guess," Said Harry, "I mean, Fred, George, what's your dad's biggest desire?"
"To know how aeroplanes stay up in the air," Said Fred.
"Something so simple that every muggle-born… or at least most… already know. There's so much fear of muggles, and it's all bollocks. Merlin, when I first got here, I was almost overwhelmed with the muggle technology in the magical areas. Wait 'till you see Travis' room," Said Harry. Just then, there was a loud bang from inside the house. Frank practically stormed out of the house, slamming the door. He said nothing, but only walked over to the fire pit, and sat down heavily in one of the seats. Harry went to stand, but Gerard shook his head as if to say 'No'.

Everyone fell silent, as Harry watched Frank from the table. What had happened that got him so agitated? Part of him wanted to go down, and sit beside him, but yet, it was also easy to put himself into Frank's shoes. At this point, he only wanted to be left alone, and Harry knew that.

Just then, the music cut out on the radio. "WE'RE GOING LIVE TO THE CWW NEWSROOM, WITH A BREAKING STORY…" There was a pause. "THIS FROM THE BRITISH WIZARDING WIRELESS NETWORK… IN A STATEMENT RELEASED BY THE BRITISH MINISTRY OF MAGIC JUST A FEW MINUTES AGO, ALBUS DUMBLEDORE HAS ESCAPED THE CUSTODY OF AURORS TRANSPORTING HIM FROM CANADIAN CUSTODY, AND IS NOW AT LARGE… A COMMUNICATION HAS BEEN ISSUED TO OUR AUROR OFFICE IN TORONTO TO THAT FACT, AND WIZARDING COMMUNITIES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ATLANTIC ARE BEING WARNED TO KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THIS FUGITIVE…"

SMASH! The glass in the dining room window, the kitchen window, and the patio door imploded into the house, while just about everything that had been on the table was thrown up in the air. The air itself seemed to sizzle with angry magic.
"Harry! You have to calm down! You're gonna hurt someone!" Travis shouted from across the table. Gerard and several of his band mates cautiously stood, edging away from the table, not wanting to be the direct target of Harry's anger.
"THAT BLOODY OLD CODGER!!!" Harry bellowed, "And the FUCKING MINISTRY, can't they get ANYTHING RIGHT?! BLOODY HELL!!!!" CRACK! The pole holding the umbrella snapped, and it toppled onto the table, where Gerard and Mikey had been sitting moments before.
"Harry?!" Harry had not seen Frank get up and return to the deck. He stood there, unsure as to whether it was safe to go near the angry young wizard.
"Harry, mate, please, you have to get control of yourself!" Fred exclaimed, also retreating away from the table, along with his brother. George drew his wand, and pointed it at the teen, but Frank knocked his hand down, shaking his head 'no'.
"We have to do something, he could blow up the house!" George shouted. At this point, Frank only nodded, and stepped behind Harry's seat. He leaned in, and practically shouted, "Calm the FUCK down, 'fore you hurt someone!!!"

Harry's head snapped around, his face a mask of anger, until he saw who it was. That was all it took, as he placed his head in his hands, anger giving way to tears. The angry energy in the air quickly dissipated, and everyone breathed a sigh of relief; Frank knelt beside Harry's seat, and enveloped him in a partial hug.
"What… what just happened?" Asked Mikey, actually shaking with fear.
"It was accidental magic, Mr. Way," Answered Lisa, "I've seen it enough times with Travis."
"Does… stuff like that happen a lot?"
"No, thankfully, not," Said Lisa, stooping to pick up one of the trays that had been sent flying. Meanwhile, the twins were busily cleaning themselves and the others, with cries of "Scourgify!" Travis quickly repaired the broken umbrella, and reset it in the hole in the table, while the house elves had appeared, and were also busily picking up the scattered food and dishes from the deck.

It was several minutes before everyone at last sat around the table again. It was several more minutes before anything more was said.
"S-sorry," Harry at last said, as he at last recomposed himself. Frank had taken a seat beside him, and they sat dangerously close to each other.
"No need to apologize, Harry, I think we can understand your anger," Said Lisa, pouring herself a fresh cup of tea. Travis pulled out his pack of cigarettes, still rattled from the outburst, ignoring the sour look he was getting from Lisa.
"I don't FUCKING care, mum, I'm gonna smoke, so get over it!" He snapped, pulling a cigarette from the pack. He lit it, sitting back in his seat. Normally, he kept his smoke away from his mother and others who did not smoke, as a courtesy. Right now, that was the last thing in his mind.
"I think… I think I'm gonna send the letters off to Ron and Hermione now," Said Harry, standing. Then he sat back down. "Or, hold on." He pulled out the parchments, looking them over. "No, that won't do now."
"Harry, it's likely mum will let Ron come over… with Dumbledore escaped… and loose in England." Said Fred.
"Considering we're here now as well," George finished. Harry nodded.
"Exactly," Said Harry, adding a few more things to his letter to Ron. He also added a few things to Hermione's letter, then resealed both. He again stood, as did Frank. "Harry, after you're done… I… I need to talk to you." Harry only nodded. Fawkes looked at them expectantly from the railing, and Harry smiled. "Yes, Fawkes, these are for you. Take them to Ron and Hermione, okay? And if they want to come, bring them, okay?" The bird let out a happy trill, and after the letters were secured, he vanished in another flash of flame.

Fred and George watched, as Frank and Harry walked together toward the shop.
"Awwww, ickle Harrykins…" Fred began.
"…has found love again." George finished. Gerard snorted with laughter, while Travis smiled.
"I guess you could say that," Gerard finally said, "I mean, they've managed to find a way into each other's bed every night Harry's been here."
"My, my, ickle Harrykins DOES move fast, right Forge?"
"Indeed, Gred. It took all of 3 days for him to…"
"…fall in love with Cedric," Said Fred, plucking a hot dog off a plate that had just appeared at the centre of the table. It had startled the muggles, not used to food being delivered that way.
"I saw it second day he was here," Said Travis, "Man, the connection they have, God, I'm envious."
"Oh, you mean, the way I saw you goggling at Mr. Weasley the other night?" Asked Mikey.
"Should we warn him, Gred?"
"About what?" Asked Travis.
"Our older brother…"
"Is a handful, Travis," Said George, "He likes to travel."
"He's a curse-breaker for Gringotts," Fred added. Travis only nodded. He did think Bill was an eyeful. Yet, he also knew he was much older than he was, and that held him back.

The table again fell into silence, everyone lost in their own thoughts. Lisa sipped at her tea, while Travis finally crushed out his cigarette, again looking at the identical twins who then sat at the table. They were literally identical copies of each other, and he had to wonder, how did Harry know one from the other?

That was interrupted minutes later, as Fawkes reappeared in another flash of flame, along with two more people… a bushy-haired witch, and another red-headed young wizard.
"Ickle Ronnikins took the phoenix express," Teased Fred.
"Fred, George! What are you guys doing here?" Said the witch.
"We came the same way…" Fred began.
"…you did, of course!" George finished.
"Where's Harry?" Asked the young wizard.
"He's, err, having a chat with someone," Said Fred.
"This is our younger brother Ron, and his friend Hermione," George introduced, "They're close friends of Harry's."
"Welcome. I'm Lisa, and this is my son Travis," Said Lisa, "And these are some of Travis' friends."
"I'm Gerard, this is Mikey, Ray, Adam(5), and Bob," Said Gerard, pointing to his band mates.
"Pleasure," Said Hermione, appraising the group that sat around the table. She then observed Fawkes take off, and fly up to a hole in the roof of the shop.
"I'd take you to see Harry, but, just…"
"It's best to give him a few minutes," Said Lisa, "He just had a bout of accidental magic."
"Then he needs to see us!" Hermione implored.
"No, 'mione, we can wait a few minutes, last thing he needs is us smothering him," Said Ron.
"And what would you know about feelings, Ron?!" Hermione snapped, "You've still got the emotional range of a teaspoon…(4)" Gerard did his best not to laugh, but it was too much. He burst into gales of laughter. That was all it took, the entire table erupted at that comment, causing both Ron and Hermione to turn a slight shade of red with embarrassment.
"I'll take you guys to see Harry," Offered Travis, "They're most likely in my room."
"They?" Asked Hermione.
"Just follow me," Said Travis.

oOo
"What's wrong?" Said Harry, as he and Frank stepped into the 'dorm' above the shop.
"That was… Jamia… on the phone," Answered Frank, plopping down onto his bed. He blew out a breath, obviously stressed about the two incidents that had just slammed him, back to back.
"She broke up with you," Harry guessed. Frank only nodded. "I almost asked her to marry me. Then all this shit went down in May, and I met Travis, then we… I haven't seen her since."
"So that's why you were so angry earlier," Said Harry. Frank nodded. "So you like both guys and girls, then?"
"I guess."
"I guess then so do I… I mean, I loved Cedric, but I had feelings for this witch, Cho Chang. She's a year ahead of me," Said Harry. Frank only nodded in understanding. "So it was just… just a disaster, I mean, Cho also loved Cedric, so it was…"
"You were both grieving over him," Said Frank.
"Yeah. But I mean, I think I was also starting to have feelings for Ron's sister Ginny… but that wouldn't work either, I mean, she's my best friend's sister."
"Yeah, no doubts there," Said Frank.
"Then I met you, and, Merlin, it's like 2 summers ago, all over again."
"What you told me this morning," Said Frank, "I guess what I want to say, is… I'm yours. You've rocked my world, Harry." Harry only grinned, taking a seat on the bed beside him. "And you've rocked mine. Just, you have to understand, like I told you before, being with me is dangerous. The most feared dark lord in a century has my name at the top of his list of targets. Once he knows about you, you'll be added above mine, count on it."
"Then it's a risk I have to take, then, I guess," Said Frank, "If you let Voldemort or whatever his name is decide your love life, or anything else, then FUCK, Harry, he's already won. DON'T do that to yourself."
"I know… it's just… I can't stop thinking about that… I worry so much…"
"Then you need to let OTHERS worry for you, you'll drive yourself crazy otherwise," Said Frank, as they faced each other. It took nothing for them the close the gap between their lips, to taste each other, to be in each others' space. Frank felt a strong tingling sensation encompass the both of them, something that made the fine hairs on his body stand on end. At that moment, he knew he was ensnared by the young wizard, truly, honestly, and hopefully, forever.

At that moment, both Ron and Hermione were led into the room by Travis. All stopped in their tracks, seeing the faint swirl of silvery magic surround Harry and Frank, to then bury itself into their chests, as they continued to kiss.
"Veneficus animus materia," Whispered Hermione, a look of surprise on her face, "Magical soul mates."
"But… he's a muggle," Said Travis quietly, "I thought… I thought that can only happen between magical people."
"Harry?" Said Ron. Harry and Frank broke off their kiss, and Harry stared wide-eyed at his best friends, who now stood in the room, looking equally shocked. "I… you made it…" He stammered.
"Yeah, we did, mate," Said Ron, taking a seat at one of the desks. Hermione took Travis' seat at his desk, while Travis sat down on his own bed.
"Harry, I'm still angry with you… you have no idea how much…"
"Hermione, please, I don't need a lecture right now," Said Harry.
"No, he's been too busy snogging," Said Ron.
"Honestly, Ron!" Hermione exclaimed, clearly exasperated by Ron's antics. That got a laugh from both Travis and Frank.
"Both of you, please!" Harry shouted, "Look! I didn't go LOOKING for trouble, I never have! Dumbledore is nothing but a manipulative old git! You want to see my memories so I can prove it?!"
"You could've at least ASKED us for help, Harry…"
"No, I couldn't," Harry answered, "I didn't know who I could trust, Hermione. I mean, I know how you are about rules and so on, I wasn't sure. I'm sorry if that hurts, but… I just couldn't take that chance. As I wrote in my letters, I hope I can still count on you two… and once I show you exactly what I'm talking about, you'll understand."
"Harry, I still can't believe Dumbledore would do the things you've accused him of," Said Hermione.
"'Mione, think about it. Dumbledore WAS Harry's magical guardian. He had absolute control over where he stayed… and I mean, we DID have to rescue him from his relatives the summer before 2nd year," Said Ron. Hermione only nodded at that.
"I can get Jeff to bring the court transcripts of the emancipation hearing if you'd like," Said Travis. Hermione only sighed, still unsure as to what to make of the situation. Part of her wanted to stay angry at Harry for his actions. Yet, at the same time, she could also see her friend was truly getting his own feet to stand on, something that would be a very good thing in the upcoming fight with Voldemort.
"Let's just drop it for now," Said Harry, "Anyway, guys, this is Frank Iero. Frankie, this is Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger."
"Your friends, son?" Asked James from the portrait.
"Yeah, dad, best friends since first year," Said Harry.
"Dad? Harry… how… where…" Hermione sputtered.
"My parents' portrait," Said Harry, retrieving said portrait from the night stand. It had been facing the bed, and so neither Ron nor Hermione had seen it before this point.
"Another Weasley boy? My, Arthur and Molly WERE busy," Said Lily with a smile, "I thought Bill was only joking."
"No, there really are 7 of them, mum. All are great except for Percy; he's another story."
"Pompous prat is what he is," Said Ron, icily, "Sending Christmas gifts back to mum and dad, like they don't exist…"
"Ron, leave it," Said Hermione.
"Damn," Said Frank, "That's pretty cold."
"Yeah, and mum and dad can't afford gifts as it is, for Merlin's sake."
"Harry," Said Hermione, "When you two were snogging just now… we saw… it was…"
"Veneficus animus materia," Travis finished.
"What? What does that mean?" Asked Frank.
"Magical soul mates," Answered Hermione, "It's virtually unheard of between a wizard and a muggle. I mean, it's even rare among wizards for that matter."
"But… what does that mean?" Asked Harry, sitting back down on the bed beside Frank.
"It means, mate, that someday we'll be attending a wedding between you guys," Said Ron.
"If Voldemort doesn't kill me first," Said Harry, darkly.
"So you guys… sleep up here?" Asked Hermione, steering the conversation in a safer direction.
"This is my room, actually," Said Travis, "But, um, Frankie and another guy, Gerard…"
"We met them already," Said Ron.
"Yeah, well, they've been staying here off and on since May," Travis finished, "So I transfigured the room and made it bigger." Hermione gazed about the room, clearly impressed.
"Yeah, I love transfiguration," Said Travis with a grin. He drew his wand, pointed it at a loose piece of paper, and muttered something in Latin. The page swiftly transformed into a red rose, which Travis presented to Hermione. She smiled at him, saying, "Most impressive, thank you."
"Err, what's that?" Asked Ron, pointing at Travis' computer.
"It's a computer, Ron," Said Hermione, rolling her eyes.
"So… err… you guys met Travis' mum, and Frankie's friends?" Asked Harry. Hermione nodded. "Fawkes brought us to your friend's back patio, I assume."
"Yeah," Said Travis, "That would be it." He thought for a moment. "What did your parents think of you guys coming here?"
"Err, well, mum doesn't know," Said Ron.
"Ron, I did say you should ask before you come, I mean, I said I wanted to see you, but I didn't want to cause grief between you and your mum," Said Harry.
"My parents were a bit hesitant," Said Hermione, "But when I explained there would be adults here, they agreed… I will need to ring them up in a bit."
"Oh, feel free to use the phone as you need," Said Travis. Ron gave him a cold look.
"My, someone's jealous," Said Frank.
"What do 'ya mean?" Said Ron, his anger starting to rise.
"Oh, jeez, um, right," Said Travis, swiftly cluing in on the dynamic between Ron and Hermione, "I'm not… um, well… I'm gay."
"Oh," Said Ron, his anger quickly vanishing.
"You thought I was coming on to… oh, man… I mean, Hermione, you are a pretty witch, don't get me wrong… but god… as I said, I'm not into girls, never have been."

An awkward silence fell over the room, each not sure where to take the conversation, each feeling a little like a fish out of water. Both Ron and Hermione could see Harry had indeed changed in a major way. Both were unsure as to how to take this new Harry. Travis knew these were Harry's closest friends, and having just met them, felt uneasy. He didn't want to cause grief, and he had already had to put out one fire. If anything, he felt like a 5th wheel. Without saying anything further, he slipped out of the room.

"Well, I guess the next question is, where are we staying?" Asked Ron, finally breaking the silence.
"No, first, you're writing a letter to your mum, explaining exactly WHERE you are, so I don't end up getting a bloody howler," Said Harry, "She'll know I'm responsible for you showing up here."
"He's right, Ron," Said Hermione. Harry stood up, and retrieved several pages of parchment from his trunk, along with a pen. "Here."
"What's this?" Asked Ron, picking up the pen.
"It's a pen, Ronald," Said Hermione, again rolling her eyes. That got a smile from Frank.
"What?" Asked Ron.
"Just, well, stuff we use every day, and you and your brothers get tripped up by it, is all," Said Frank.
"It's how they were raised," Said Hermione, "Pure blooded witches and wizards are practically oblivious to muggle technology."
"Not here, so I'm learning," Said Harry, gesturing to the computer. Ron quickly noticed the number of books and the like on the shelves around the computer, including numerous potion vials.
"Ok, Harry. Seriously, how have you been?" Asked Hermione.
"Since I got here, doing much better," Answered Harry, "Travis has helped me loads. His lawyer helped me get my independence, and my inheritance. And my parents' portrait." He gestured to the portrait, which he had placed back on the bedside table.
"Miss Granger, do you realize Dumbledore kept this portrait from our son, against our wishes?" Said Lily.
"No, I didn't," Answered Hermione.
"The same as this," Said Harry, showing the family ring, "I mean, I really don't care about the title, but… this ring was dad's, and you both know how much it means to me, having real, tangible things that were my parents'. Dumbledore had no right to keep this stuff from me!"
"Dumbledore brazenly ignored our wishes, he broke the law," Said James. At that, Hermione could only nod, as the writing was indeed on the wall.
"Well, Harry, if anything, you definitely have something on Malfoy now," Said Ron.
"What's that?"
"Your ring, of course! Not to mention, you can turn him into a ferret and not get into trouble for it," Ron Snickered.
"A ferret?" Asked Frank.
"That was almost 2 years ago," Said Harry, and related the story of how Draco Malfoy became 'the incredible bouncing ferret'.
"So… you can really turn someone into a frog, then," Said Frank.
"It's a bit of advanced transfiguration, but yes," Said Hermione.
"Well, I mean, Professor McGonagall did threaten to transfigure Ron and I into watches during our first transfiguration lesson," Said Harry.
"But Harry, we were lost," Said Ron, "How was I to know she could turn into a cat?"
"People can turn into animals, as in, on their own?" Asked Frank.
"Absolutely, Mr. Iero," Said Lily, "It's called an animagus form. Not all witches or wizards can do it, of course."
"I was a stag when I was alive," Said James. That got a smile from Harry. "Now I know why my Patronus is a stag, dad."
"That would make sense, son," Said James.

It was almost time for dinner before Ron was finally satisfied with his letter. Harry located Fawkes, and sent him off with it, then the group returned to the house, or the back deck, as Lisa and the house elves were just then setting the expanded table for dinner.
"Now, Mr. Weasley and Miss Granger. I've got the remaining guest rooms set up for you two. The twins have already claimed the other," Said Lisa.
"Thank you, Mrs. Carter," Said Hermione.
"Like I've told Harry already, please call me Lisa," Said Lisa, as she took a seat.
"Harry," George began, as he took a seat, "We can only stay…"
"A couple of days," Said Fred, as he too sat down, "Unless…"
"We can figure a way so…"
"We can come and go as necessary," Fred finished.
"What about installing an international floo connection?" Asked Hermione. Just then, the food appeared at the centre of the table. Ron did not hesitate, and began piling his plate with various items.
"No, it's against the law here. International floo connections can only be installed by the government," Answered Travis, also taking a seat.
"That's pretty strict," Said Harry.
"And that's why we don't have Voldemort running around here," Travis pointed out. Hermione conceded that point. "Just like they monitor port keys, and apparating."
"They track that stuff?" Harry was amazed.
"The magical transportation office has this huge computer that tracks everything in real time. Apparently, even the movements of magical creatures," Said Travis.
"Bloody hell," Exclaimed Ron.
"My thoughts exactly," Said Harry, "They could track the movements of Death Eaters."
"Most definitely. Some of the shit we've heard of going on back in England, well, it just couldn't happen here… Aurors would be all over the situation within minutes. Especially a concentrated attack. Well, I mean, it seemed like it took hours in May, but I guess in reality it really was only a couple of minutes from when Bartlett started his bullshit until Aurors arrived," Said Travis.
"But, how does it work, how does a computer work in a magical place? I thought the magical energy interferes with it," Said Hermione.
"One of the things the muggle technology integration office discovered, I guess," Answered Travis, "How to shield a computer or other electronic device so it will still work in a magically saturated place."
"Muggle technology integration? Dad would love that one," Said Ron, between bites.
"Yeah, I'm sure he would," Harry laughed, "Merlin, he'd be astounded just coming here, I think."
"Back to the point," Said Fred, "I know of a trunk maker in Knockturn Alley who might be able to help us."
"And what would you guys be doing… wait, don't answer that," Said Hermione, "I don't want to know."
"What's Knockturn Alley?" Asked Bob.
"Dodgy place, if you ask me," Said Ron. It was barely understandable, as his mouth was stuffed with food.
"Ron! Please!" Hermione groaned.
"What?"
"Anyway…" Harry said, rolling his eyes, "Knockturn Alley… Ron's right, dodgy place, lots of unfavourable people there."
"And some right useful junk…" Began George.
"…if you know where to look."
"Right you are Gred."
"Indeed, Forge."
"Guys. Is this trunk maker trustworthy?"
"Absolutely," Said Fred.
"Then it looks like we'll be going to Diagon Alley first thing Monday," Harry decided.


AUTHOR'S NOTES: Quite a lengthy chapter this was, and some may have found it actually dragged a bit. Perhaps not my best, but now and then there has to be some back fill, you know, the stuff that usually gets cut in the movie, right? I guess parts of this chapter would qualify… helpful, but not absolutely necessary.

(1) Albus is an incredibly powerful wizard… again, I point out, he's one of only 2 wizards Tom Riddle fears. So it would only make sense that he can do some powerful wand-less magic. Riddle can, so one must draw the conclusion, so can Dumbledore.

(2) Taken from p.100, HBP, Canadian soft-cover edition. Some people tend to manipulate his OWL scores in their fanfics, I believe in keeping it Canon here, these are the scores JKR assigned, so that is what I work with.

(3) Latin translation of 'make copy'.

(4) Sorry, just HAD to use that line, it had me in stitches for several minutes.

(5) Additional fictitious band-member… might be considered a red-shirt… grins