The Hat's Decree

Grimmauld Place, London, England

Harry once again felt himself stirring trying to avoid the obnoxious blinking light in the corner of his eye. He switched sides of the bed several times, and on one occasion tried throwing a pillow at it to no avail. Finally, frustrated and tired, he marched up to the little light and grabbed, it not caring what it was or where it had come from. He stuffed the little light under a stack of parchments on his bedside table making sure that not even a hint of it was visible. Satisfied with his work he made to go back to bed but on his way there tripped on something and came crashing to the ground.
“Oh Harry! Are you okay, you didn’t hit your head again, mum would kill me if you hurt yourself again,” Ginny said lighting the nearby lamp and rushing over to his side to help him up.
“I’m alright Ginny, don’t worry. I didn’t hit my head I just tripped over your legs.”
“How did you trip over my legs, I was sleeping on the chair?”
“I was having that bloody dream again. I was trying to hide the little light so I could get some sleep. I put it under the parchment on the desk and was heading back to bed and I guess I just got too close to your legs.”
Ginny walked over to the table and started to rifle through the stacks of parchment and books.
“Ginny it was just a dream, I’m pretty sure I didn’t just hide an actual light in the…”
“What about a package. You never did open this envelope that they gave you at Gringotts?” Ginny broke in holding out the small package she’d found in the pile of paper.
Harry stood up wincing at the pain in his side and took the package. He’d completely forgotten about it since he’d received it nearly a month ago. “I guess I misplaced it, that day was a bit crazy. Remember, we caught Wormtail that day?” He undid the bit of twine holding the package shut and removed the letter that was attached. For some unknown reason Harry’s heart was beating rapidly as he broke the wax seal on the envelope and began to read the letter that was written in rounded cursive.

Harry-
If you are reading this then for some unfortunate reason or another we are no longer with you in this world, hopefully you will never have to lay eyes on this but in these dark days one is never certain about anything (Your mum was quite against me writing this letter but I thought it was important to pass this item along). I know that you are now probably a remarkable young lad of 16 (if those goblins follow instructions), and I am fairly confident you are a world class Quidditch player. Sirius and I spent many an hour teaching you how to fly although you could barely walk; your mum nearly turned me into a cow when she found out our master plan!
Hopefully the world is a better place than it is as of my writing this. Our greatest wish is that you never have to witness the horrible things we have to on a daily basis. The Order is trying with all it’s might to restore peace to a world in turmoil, a place where our children may live without worrying about bloodclass or alliances.
As per our instructions Sirius is now your guardian, I know he can be a bit mangy sometimes, but he is like a brother to me, so is Remus and Peter. This is your family Harry and I want you to know that they will always be there for your even though we may not (although I do have my doubts about Petunia and Vernon). I dark times like these your family and friends are more important than ever, they will be what keep you alive and ready to fight.
Now onto the necklace in this package Harry. I know that it might seem like a pointless dongle but let me assure you that is farthest from the fact. This is a Potter heirloom that has been passed down to the firstborn child on their 16th birthday. It is a symbol of the courageous, and sometimes obstinate, behaviour us Potter’s have. Your mum and I have also added practical enhancements to this that will hopefully make it more appealing to you. Along with some anti-jinx charms and a weak shield charm there are also some highly experimental charms that we put on it. Wear this wherever you go and it will be a guide in unknown places, a reminder of where you are from, and will be your pass to places of greatness.
Never forget how much we love you and know that we are always there watching over you.

Your father,

James

Harry held the paper in shaking hands skimming over the letter again and again then finally handing it over to Ginny who read it slowly, tears brimming in her eyes. While she was reading Harry had pulled out the necklace from the package.
From a thick platinum chain hung a roughly hewn piece of black stone. Harry moved closer to the lamp to inspect the pendant.
The stone was an unusual black it seemed to absorb the light around it. The rock was completely covered in silk thin gold inlay that radiated an inner warmth. Harry couldn’t discern any remarkable pattern but there seemed to be a deeper meaning to the spirals and whorls. At the base of the pendant there was a set of carvings that cut outward from the centre in a pinwheel design that reminded him of a windmill. The whole necklace seemed surprisingly heavy considering the stone was the size of a small pebble.
“Harry this letter is amazing, you have to make sure to take care of it,” Ginny said wiping a tear away and folding the letter up gingerly, “is that the necklace?”
“Yeah, it looks really old so I guess he was right about it being an heirloom. I wonder what the other spells that they put on it were?” Harry rubbed the inlay tracing his fingers around the fine gold thread that wound itself continuously around the stone.
“I don’t know but if they were experimental I doubt anyone would know. My dad said that your mum was brilliant at charms though so I bet that whatever they are they’re strong. Do you want me to put it on you?”
“Do you think I can, I don’t want it to break when I’m asleep?”
“I think if it’s been in your family for so long that it can survive. Here bend down and I’ll put it on,” Ginny clasped the necklace shut and stepped back to examine it, “it looks good, nothing like a girl’s necklace. I think the thick chain makes it look more manly.”
“I guess I’ll wear it then, plus you can’t really see it if I keep it under my shirt. Here I’ll put the letter in the photo album you made me, that way I won’t forget it and it won’t get messed up. There all set.”
“Thanks, come on lets go to bed, I’m exhausted and it’s still pitch black.” Harry said crawling under the sheets and scooting over to make room for Ginny.
“Are you sure you’re okay? I saw you wince when you were getting into bed; I don’t want to hurt you at all. The chair was comfortable enough, I’ll just stay there.”
“Don’t worry Ginny it’s fine, it just hurts when I bend down at all. Here come on, I’m really tired and want to get a little more sleep before the morning.”
Ginny crawled slowly trying to not make the bed move too much, and lay snuggled up next to Harry, “this is a lot more comfortable than a chair.”
“Told you, now go to bed before the sun actually rises,” Harry said closing his eyes. He felt the pendant on his neck pulse slightly in pace with his own heartbeat and a sense of comfort filled him as he though back over the letter his father had written him telling him they would always be there for him.

Harry and Ginny woke a few hours later when Madam Pomfrey, Lupin, and Dumbledore all came into the room to check in and see how Harry’s injuries were.
“Good morning Harry I must apologize for the rude awakening but Poppy thought it best to check in and see how you were healing up. From what I’ve been told you put quite the fight trying to save Miss Granger. Don’t worry she is quite fine, she woke up earlier this morning and seemed to have her wits about her. Poppy?” Dumbledore said ushering Madam Pomfrey forward to inspect Harry.
“Professor…” Harry started as madam Pomfrey cast various diagnostic spells on him, “…I killed Bellatrix…what exactly will happen now will I be going to Azkaban?”
“Harry I cannot tell you how sorry I am that you have to go through such an ordeal at such a young age, but I must reiterate that this is a war and you are a warrior in it. From Mr. Weasley and Mr. Ollivander’s account you performed admirably and only used deadly force when no other option was left open to you. Killing anyone, even someone as twisted as Bellatrix, is not something you take lightly however and I want you to remember that. Killing another human being is one of the most destructive forces on earth, it changes you in more ways than you can imagine. What is most intriguing about your confrontation was that you had no wand at that time, you cast an entirely new spell using your will to protect Miss Granger. This could be a case of accidental magic on another level, or something more important, perhaps a weapon forged from the love of others.” The headmaster shared a meaningful look with Harry and Ginny who were both instantly reminded of the prophecy and the prediction that Harry would have a power the other did not.
“Now…concerning Azkaban I doubt that Fudge will so much as send you a reprimand, he is currently embattled in his own war to protect his position, although I believe that conflict will be over soon,” the headmaster stopped as he watched sadly as Madam Pomfrey undo the bandage on Harry’s finger.
“Professor, what happened in Diagon Alley after we left? Did the Aurors get there in time to capture more of them?” Ginny asked trying to take Harry’s mind off his missing appendage.
“Well the Aurors did indeed come, late and outnumbered however. Many were already there before you left but it didn’t make much difference. It seems that because the Death Eaters lost their primary target, presumably Harry, they set out to simply destroy as much property as possible. As of this morning most of Diagon Alley is ash, the Death Eaters set fire to much of the already ruined town. The Aurors managed to save a few but most of them were already too far engulfed in flames. You will be happy to know that thankfully no one was killed.”
“Except for Bellatrix…” Harry said gloomily, pulling his shirt up to give Madam Pomfrey access to the bandage wrapped around his torso.
“Harry I know it is hard for you, it took me quite a while to recover from the first time I was forced to take someone’s life, but you must know it wasn’t your fault in the least.” Lupin said stepping forward to look Harry eye to eye.
“Thanks Moony, I just have to get used to it I guess, give me a little while to sort out how I feel about the whole thing.”
“Mr. Potter would you mind explaining this?” Madam Pomfrey asked pointing down at his side.
Harry looked down at his side. Where there was supposed to be a huge gash in his side there was now only a small cut that seemed to have healed quite well considering he’d received it less than a day ago. “I thought you said it was a big cut, this doesn’t look bad at all.”
“It was a huge gash Mr. Potter, the key word being was. Do you have any idea how it has healed so quickly? None of the potions or spells I administered would have caused such rapid healing. I doubt that you will even be able to see a scar once it is finished healing now.” Madam Pomfrey said as she continued to examine the wound.
“Harry…what about the necklace?” Ginny suggested.
“Where did you get that?” Lupin asked in shock as Harry pulled it out from under his shirt, “I haven’t seen that necklace in more than 15 years.”
“It was in that package I was given at Gringotts when I took control of the bank. We found it last night with a letter my dad wrote explaining what it is. He told me to wear it all the time. He did say something about him and my mum putting some experimental charms on it, do you think that that is what’s healing my cut?”
“It very well could be Harry, if you might allow me to inspect it momentarily?” Dumbledore asked as he stepped forward too.
“Sure. Ginny could you undo the clasp I can’t really see it without my glasses on. Thanks.”
Dumbledore took the necklace handling it as if it were made of the finest materials. He examined it form every angle, muttering to himself as he stared intently at the sprawling gold inlay. Finally he set it down on the table and pointed his wand at it, there was a brief flash of red light and it returned to normal. The headmaster picked the necklace back up and handed it to Harry smiling, “I think Ginny is correct in thinking that this might have caused your wound to heal so quickly. It is indeed a very rare and precious heirloom; you should take great care of it. I was unable to find any particular spells on it but as you saw with the red flash there is several layers of deep magic ingrained in that pendant. Your mother and father were two of the most skilled magicians to come out of Hogwarts in a very long time; whatever spells they have placed on this necklace are extremely powerful. To be quite honest I have never seen such a unique stone in many years. It would be wise to keep it on your body at all times if this stunning case of healing was indeed caused by this necklace.”
While Madam Pomfrey re-bandaged the wound on Harry’s side Dumbledore continued to talk. “Harry now I know it is early and you most likely will not want to discuss it but I was hoping to ask you some questions about the magic you managed yesterday.”
“Hold on Albus, look at him he’s still barely awake, at least give the boy some time to get dressed,” Lupin said. Harry felt a rush of gratitude towards his new guardian as he pulled his shirt back down and stood up.
“Thanks Moony, actually headmaster if it’s alright with Madam Pomfrey I’m sort of hungry. Could we talk about this downstairs?”
“Of course Harry, of course. I didn’t want to impede your convalescence. I am merely curious after hearing what Mr. Ollivander described to me. Let us head downstairs then, Molly has been preparing breakfast anyhow, I don’t see why we should let it go to waste.” The group headed downstairs and were soon all seated around the kitchen table serving themselves portions of eggs, bacon, and various other breakfast goods.
“Now Harry the reason I am so curious with the magic you performed yesterday is because it shows that you have taken a rather dramatic step forwards in your magical growth. Very few people can perform any magic whatsoever without their wand, yet what you did yesterday was very powerful, and directed, magic completely wandless. This is certainly an effect of the Heartbond that you will experience to some level or another too Ginny.”
“Professor I didn’t perform anything at all, it just…happened. I had zero control of it, it just felt like the magic shot out of me. And from what I’m hearing you’re saying this could happen again.” Harry said, recalling the shocked look on Bellatrix’s face as the blood spread across her chest.
“And that is precisely why I wanted to discuss this, as the bond continues to grow so will the magic. You must learn to control this at the beginning so you can keep it in check at all times. I have already discussed this with Remus briefly and I think it would be best if you and Miss Weasley take special lessons with at least once a week that focus solely on controlling and focusing your wandless magic.”
“When you get back to school next week we’ll start having a two hour class once a week. Because of the state of things it will most likely be a different one of us teaching you each time. Harry I know that you could probably do with more free time but this is important,” Lupin said seeing the rather dissident expression Harry wore.
“I know, I know. It’s just this year is going to be difficult enough without another bloody thing to have to worry about. Plus Ginny is in her O.W.L. year; she’s going to need every free minute she can get.”
“Harry you know that normally I would agree with you but this is much more important. If what happened to Bellatrix was an accident when you were just getting the magic imagine what could happen in a year’s time?”
“Don’t worry Harry, I think we should take the class, plus I have a good teacher if I need any help catching up,” Ginny playfully punched Harry in the arm, making him crack a grin and stick his tongue out at her.
“Well it’s decided then! We shall work out the details upon your arrival back at school. I suggest you do not try any form of magic wandlessly before we have had a chance to go over some of the basics. It wouldn’t do to blow up the kitchen when you were just trying to levitate a grapefruit spoon.”

The morning they were supposed to leave for school Madam Pomfrey showed up to check on Hermione and, to much fanfare, deemed her fit enough to travel.
When Mrs. Weasley went in to get Ron up she couldn’t even get him to wake up until she threatened to call Fred and George and have them test some of their new products on him.
The group slowly arrived downstairs with their various luggage and cages piling up in the hallway. Molly had decided to get everyone up with Madam Pomfrey’s arrival so if needed they could change their plans, that meant they needed to wake up at the mind-numbingly early hour of 4 AM.
Harry and Ginny were sitting at the kitchen table nibbling on some bacon when Hermione arrived at the foot of the stairs leaning heavily on Ron’s shoulder for support. Although she moved slowly, and still seemed a bit disoriented, there was a healthy glow about her face that hadn’t been there the days prior.
“Hermione!” Ginny cried and got up to hug her.
“Hey,” she said trying to smile but instead ended up yawning, “sorry, I’m just a bit tired.”
“It’s fine, if I’m this tired I can’t imagine how you must feel,” Harry said getting up and pulling a chair out for her, “glad Madam Pomfrey finally let you out of your bedroom, she wouldn’t even let us visit you.”
“Tell me about it, she wouldn’t even let me get up to use the bathroom without being there to make sure I wouldn’t pass out. I don’t know why she had to do that, I know that the pain-killing potion I was taking didn’t have any side effects other than fever.”
Ron grinned at Harry, “Good to hear you’re still yourself. Now mum said that I was supposed to make sure you eat something before we leave, of course seeing how it’s only 4 AM we could have a full eight course meal before we actually needed to leave.”
“Don’t worry Ronald, I’ll eat. Actually I’m starving, chicken broth isn’t exactly filling.” Hermione reached for a plate, but Ron got to it first and started to fill it up for her.
“Allow me,” he said smiling slightly. Harry and Ginny had to stifle a laugh, as he stumbled walking over to hand her the plate and nearly knocked over pitcher of orange juice.
“Thank you Ron,” she said smiling endearingly as he handed her the plate that now had everything piled on one side due to his near fall.
“So is Emma going to come to King’s Cross or is she going to go with Joy later?” Hermione asked after a few minutes of silence as everyone was tried to wake up from their rather early start.
“Well…” Harry started shifting in his chair a bit.
“We haven’t actually seen them since the…incident,” Ginny added, “Seems like they were a bit scared after the attacks and have started to re-think whether or not Emma should go to Hogwarts or not.”
“I even went over to try and talk to them but every time I went over Joy just said they were busy, or just heading out.”
“I guess I could see where she’s coming from. If you had nearly been killed by a group of people you didn’t even know existed in a war you had no idea about until a few weeks ago, I’d be pretty shaken up too.” Hermione said as she methodically worked her way through her plate of food.
“I know, I know. I just want to make sure that Emma comes; I want her to be able to fight if she needs to. And the way this thing’s going so far it seems like that’ll be sooner than later.”
“Don’t worry Harry,” Ginny said, “I think that they’ll be coming they just need some time to sort through everything that happened. Its not exactly the most subtle way to be brought into the wizarding world, seeing a full fledged battle being fought in one of the few places everyone thought was safe.”
Another bout of silence fell over the table as everyone’s thoughts returned back to the fight in Diagon Alley.

An hour later Dumbledore showed up at the front door with Kingsley and Mad-Eye in tow, to escort them to King’s Cross.
“Ah, Miss Granger, it is good to see that you are ambulatory once again, you won’t have to miss the start of term feast, or classes for that matter. Is everyone packed and ready to go? Where are the Masseys?” Everyone shifted uncomfortably in their seats, “Ah,” the headmaster said smiling slightly, “Would I be correct in assuming that Joy and Emmaline are having second thoughts about going to our establishment?”
“We haven’t really seen them since we got back to headquarters three days ago,” Ginny said.
“Of course, it is only natural, I would have been surprised if this hadn’t happened. I think I will pay them a visit, I know it is horribly rude to come calling so early in the morning but they deserve to be able to ask any questions they want. Kingsley, Alastor? I will stay behind, if you would still please escort them to the train that would be excellent. I believe that Molly, Tonks, and Lupin will be accompanying you as well. I have a few additional errands to run before the start of school this evening, so there is a chance the Massey’s and I will miss the train’s departure.”
“We can instruct them to hold the train—“
“Oh no, nothing like that Kingsley. I just wanted to make sure you knew what was happening if they do not arrive. Now I think I shall head over there, it is barely five in the morning but I believe it is rather important I talk to them, especially after what happened to them.” Dumbledore took Lupin aside for a moment, then bade everyone good luck and headed out the front door.

With everyone downstairs and somewhat awake Mad-Eye decided that it was time to leave the house and head for King’s Cross. They all gathered up their various trunks, cages, and stray items and headed outside to wait for the cars that Tonks had arranged to pick them up.
Moody and Kingsley were agitated, constantly surveying the area around them, checking and rechecking every nook and cranny. It was apparent they didn’t like being exposed for such a long time, this was most evident when a car turned the corner and started to head towards them. Moody drew his wand and started to step backwards, pushing the group back onto the steps of Grimmauld Place.
“Alastor, calm down. This is our ride,” Tonks said cheerfully. She stepped forwards and hailed the car towards them.
“Tonks what exactly is our ride?” Kingsley asked as the car approached.
“I know what that is!” Exclaimed Ron, “dad told me about them once. They’re called…limesins...limesigns”
“…you got us a limousine Tonks?” Harry asked stunned as the massive stretched black town car slowed to a stop in front of them.
“Why not?” Tonks smiled picking up a trunk, “No matter how we get there we’re in some sort of danger, at least this way we’re all in one car so we can’t get separated. Plus, I have a ministry charge card so it’s all a write off! Now stop staring and help get this stuff loaded.”

The ride to King’s Cross went by quickly as everyone marvelled at the elegantly furnished limo and before they knew it they were all unloading at the curb of the train station under the watchful eyes of Moody, Kingsley and the others. All around them the crowd bustled past, hundreds of muggles never taking a second glance at the strange scene of the large group of oddly dressed people carrying a veritable menagerie of animals along with their massive trunks.
As they approached the pillar between platforms nine and ten Harry began to pick out other people who most certainly had to be witches and wizards. Moody growled in disgust when a saw the short little man drop a box and an assortment of charmed bouncy balls went flying across the station nearly causing Mad-Eye to slip, “I’ll teach them about secrecy, bloody fool should let everyone know where here…” he muttered as he did away with them with a subtle flick of his wand and stomped off to the pillar.

King’s Cross Station, London, England
Hogwarts Express looked just like it had six years earlier when Harry first had come stumbling through the portal; the massive steam engine hissed and bubbled as it lay there waiting for the 11 AM departure. There were differences however, the most obvious being the increased amount of security around the train in the form of red cloaked Aurors, and the now omnipresent banners featuring Fudge’s likeness glaring at all that entered.
There was more than just increased security however; the instant Harry had entered the station he’d noticed the difference, it was similar to the same feeling he’d gotten in Diagon Alley. There wasn’t the usual air of excitement or happiness that every other time had filled the platform instead everyone around them was talking quietly in hushed tones, although he saw many people he knew none of them seemed compelled to talk to them and instead stood around quietly talking with their families.
As the group made their way to the edge of the platform an even deeper silence fell upon the platform and soon everyone seemed to be staring at Harry and the others.
“Why are they all staring at us,” Ron whispered as they huddled together to try and ignore the awkwardness.
“You’ve been reading the Prophet Ron, you know what they’ve been writing. The whole paper has turned into a way to force Fudge’s propaganda on everyone. Half of the articles in that rag are about how Harry is some sort of saviour, and the other is rampant speculation about what happened at the Department of Mysteries.” Hermione said as she surveyed the crowd that was now once again whispering amongst itself.
“I can’t believe we didn’t take care of that with Skeeter. Blimey mate, looks like we’re back to where we started,” Ron said patting Harry on the back.
Ignoring the murmuring crowd they grabbed their trunks and pushed their way into the train and found an empty room and headed back out to bid farewell to everyone before the train left. While Molly doted over Ron, Ginny, and Hermione, Lupin took Harry aside.
“Harry I just want to remind you that we’re all here for you, that I’m here for you. These next few months could very well be the most trying one’s of any of our lives, but remember that we are in this together, and that we should enjoy life while we can. No matter what some prophet may have said years ago this is still your life Harry,” Lupin smiled at the look of shock on Harry’s face.
“How…how’d you know?”
“Albus felt it was time I knew so he told me a few days ago. I cannot imagine how much pressure you must be feeling right now, and I know that you must also think it is your own duty to bear but that is false, allow others to help you. You have amazing friends and family Harry and they, me included, are willing to follow you anywhere you go.”
“That’s the problem, I don’t want to them to follow me. Last time that happened I nearly got them all killed! If you heard the prophecy you know what it said, only I can kill him so I need to do this alone.” Harry said, looking down intently at his trainers so as to stop himself from letting his emotions get to him.
“Yes Harry I did hear the prophecy and I know what it said. Although you have to kill Voldemort that does not mean you have to find him and go to battle against him alone, you just have to finish the job. We’ll all be at your side when that time comes to make sure you have the best chance there is.” Lupin smiled softly and the two stood in silence for a minute until the train’s whistle went off and they began to head over to the others, “…Now before you go I will most likely be gone for a few weeks at a time now on missions so I won’t be able to talk to you frequently. If you ever need to get hold of me ask to use an Order member’s necklace, although I’m fairly confident Hermione could probably create one of your own in a few hours if need be.”
Harry laughed then grabbed his guardian in a big hug, “Thank you.” Although he didn’t show it Harry was elated at having Lupin know about the prophecy, keeping it secret for so long between he and Ginny had been tearing him up. He knew that he’d have to tell Hermione and Ron soon, especially if the war was to begin escalating. His mind flashed back to the nightmares he’d had so frequently this summer, but as quickly as they had come they left, leaving Harry standing there staring off into the distance. Molly seemed to pay no attention and scooped him up in a huge hug, squeezing him until he could barely breath, after she finally let go Arthur stepped up and gave him a firm handshake, telling him quite seriously to “take care of Ginny.” Harry just gulped and nodded in accordance.
Tonks, Kingsley, and Moody had to rush their goodbyes as the second and final whistle for the train went off when clock struck eleven. Waving frantically behind them Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione rushed to the train car entrance and stepped onto the already moving Hogwarts Express.

The ride to Hogwarts this year passed by without any incident, in-fact it was downright dull. Although Harry had seen Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle board the train they never visited their compartment for the usual barrage snide comments and veiled threats. Hermione and Ron had gotten into an argument with him at the prefects meeting but after that he’d seemed to have completely disappeared.
“Maybe you-know-who’s finally did some good and silencioed Malfoy permanently,” Ron had offered shortly after he and Hermione had returned.
The stories from The Prophet seemed to have created a mixed form of fear and awe among the students of Hogwarts. Although no one came into the compartment, there were an unusual amount of people who would just stop outside of their compartment and stare at Harry and the others as if they were and exhibit. Finally Hermione cast a glass etching charm on the windows that made them opaque. Aside from that, and a few visits from Neville, Luna, and several other D.A. members the trip was going by quietly.
Talking to Lupin about the prophecy had stirred it from the back of his mind where he’d so forcibly shoved it over the past weeks. The longer and longer he sat there with Ron and Hermione the more his anxiety over not telling them grew. Finally, after debating it over in his mind, he decided that here was just as secure as anywhere else. After this hand I’ll tell them Harry told himself as Ron dealt another hand of Exploding Snap.
The tower teetered ominously as Hermione tried to stack the Ace of Spades on Ginny’s King of Hearts. Taking a deep breath she went in once more and dropped the card on top, it stuck. Hermione let out a sigh of relief; but just as she did so the entire deck blew up in her face, covering it in black soot so she looked much like a chimney sweep.
“Well that was fun, although I don’t think I’m up for another round,” Hermione said rubbing the black off her face, “what other games do we have… other than chess Ron.” She added cutting him off.
“I wasn’t going to say…”
“Hey Ron, mate, could you hold up for a minute,” Harry interrupted, “I actually have something I need to tell you guys.”
“What is it?” Hermione asked sitting upright at once.
Ginny moved closer to Harry and grabbed hold of his hand, although he hadn’t told he about what he was planning he felt as if she knew what he was going to say.
“You know how the whole battle at the Department of Mysteries was about Voldemort getting the prophecy about he and I? And that thankfully he didn’t get his hands on it…”
“Yeah it was destroyed, you told us,” Ron said.
“And no one was able to hear it because of all the fighting going on. Anyhow, that’s all true, the prophecy was destroyed there. It turns out that wasn’t the only copy though. Dumbledore witnessed the original one.” Harry paused, not sure if he should let them catch up or just keep going.
“You’ve heard the prophecy…” Hermione said after looking at him for a moment.
Harry nodded, trying to smile but instead ended up sort of grimacing, “Yeah, and Dumbledore said I could tell you guys. I’ve been putting it off because I didn’t want you to know, but after everything we’ve already been through, and everything we’re about to go through I figured I owe it to you. Now before I show it to you you need to know that you cannot tell another soul about this, no one. If Tom figures out you know you’ll be in more danger than ever before.”
Ron and Hermione both nodded.
“Okay, well I don’t exactly have a pensieve so I’m going to just tell it to you. This was a prophecy that Trelawney made to Dumbledore, yeah I know she’s not a fraud it turns out.”
Harry took a deep breath, glanced at Ginny then started—“The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches… born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies … and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not … and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives … the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies …”
The familiar silence filled the cabin as Harry sat back, never taking his eyes off Hermione and Ron who both sat there shell-shocked. Hermione had tears in her eyes that she kept brushing away, and Ron just sat there unblinking.
“I know it’s a lot to take in, I’m still trying to figure it out. If you don’t want to be involved in this anymore I understand, you can go. I need to do this alone anyway. OW!” Harry exclaimed as Ginny punched him hard on his arm.
“No you don’t!” she said punching him again, “you are so frustrating sometimes. How many times have I told you that you’re not alone in this.”
“Hold on, you knew about this?” Ron asked finally speaking up.
Ginny shrugged, “Harry and Dumbledore told me after we were bonded.”
“Honestly I’m not as surprised as I thought I would be, I think I had it in the back of my mind that that might have been what the prophecy said.” Hermione said, wiping her eyes once more, “and Ginny’s right Harry, you don’t have to do this alone. If you think we’d leave you after hearing some story Trelawney said you’re crazy, we’ve been through much worse than this before.”
“I agree with both of them too mate, I’d like to get a piece of the action myself, besides after what our fight at the Ministry I want to get back at those Death Eaters for these bloody scars.” Ron said lifting his hair up to show off the ugly mark where one of the brains had attached itself.
“But Ronald those were the brains that you levitated out of the water yourself.”
“It doesn’t matter ‘Mione it’s the principle of the thing!”
Harry smiled, and then asked nervously, “So you two are okay with it? You don’t want to run away or anything?”
“Why would we want to run away Harry? You said it already; we’re here to fight this war. If Fudge isn’t going to do it the D.A. and the Order is going to have to. Besides we’d most likely be in more danger if we left you. I’m not going anywhere.”
“Sorry mate, you’re not getting rid of us that easily,” Ron added with a smile.
Harry sat back into his seat, a huge weight had been lifted off his shoulders, it was one he hadn’t even known existed until it was gone. Now looking back onto it he realized he had been worried about losing Ron and Hermione when they figured out about the prophecy. Ginny snuggled up under his arm and rested her head on his shoulder.
“Mmmm…you smell good,” she said smiling. He had told her how much this had been bothering him and was happy that he’d finally managed to get this out in the open.
“That’s because I took my weekly shower,” Harry joked tickling her on the side.
“Get a room!” Ron groaned, “just because you two are bonded does not mean I can just block you and my sister out of my mind.”
“I think you can try harder. Here, let’s give him some incentive.” Harry bent down and kissed her briefly then paused for a second and bent down again.
“Alright, alright! I get the point, you want me to go blind?” Ron exclaimed to a giggling Harry and Ginny.

The rest of the train ride went quickly, the group chatted amicably, heeding Harry’s request and not discussing the prophecy further that day. Soon they were close enough to school that they decided to get dressed and the usual hustle and bustle ensued. It was raining in Hogsmead and the mix of a dense fog and the steam from the train made it so people seemed to be appearing out of thin air all around them. The security at the platform was just as secure as at Kings Cross with nearly a dozen Aurors and teachers on duty to supervise the student as they headed to the carriages and boats. Hagrid could be seen off in the distance helping the first years climb into the small boats moored on the lake.
Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny caught a thestral drawn carriage that was already en-route to the castle with Neville and Luna already onboard.
“Do you reckon Dumbledore managed to convince Joy to let Emma come?” Hermione asked Harry.
“Knowing him he probably did, I really hope so. I don’t want Emma to be left out after figuring everything out. I know she was scared but she’s probably me in more danger if she didn’t come now.”
“She’s probably up at the Great Hall waiting with McGonagall already.”
“Who’s Emma?” Luna asked dreamily, looking up from the newest copy of the Quibbler.
“She’s a first year who we met over the summer, she lived next door. We got attacked in Diagon Alley and Emma and her mom were with us so they were a bit spooked.”
“I read about that in The Prophet and was meaning to ask you lot about it. So it really did happen? Did you really fight off all the death eaters by yourself?” Neville exclaimed.
“The Prophet hasn’t exactly been accurate recently…” Hermione explained.
“It’s never been accurate Hermione,” Harry broke in.
“…I guess you’re right but that story was certainly not true except that we were attacked at Diagon Alley and Harry fought valiantly to protect me from Bellatrix.” Hermione smiled at Harry who blushed slightly.
“You fought Bellatrix? I read that she was killed in the fight, did you…” Neville stopped when he saw Harry and the other’s expressions, “…oh.”
The carriage fell silent for a moment until Harry spoke, “Yes Neville, I killed her. I was fighting to stop her from killing Hermione and as a desperate last second thing I killed her. I honestly thought I would feel worse than I do, but what I realized is that she was one of the few people who truly did deserve to die for their actions. She killed or tortured too many people, Sirius, Hermione…your parents.” Harry’s eye’s glowed with passion, he wanted so desperately to convey that he felt bad about it but his conscience was clean.
Neville bent his head down, not looking Harry directly in the eyes.
Harry took a breath, “look… we are at war and things are there are definitely going to be times when we have to make difficult decisions in an instant. I don’t like just as much as the next bloke, but I’ve accepted it as fact, and as soon as everyone else does the sooner we can get to actually fighting Voldemort.”
“Are we going to be starting up the D.A. again? I did love it ever so much…” Luna said pulling up from her magazine, her knack for changing the subject abruptly once again showing.
“Yes. That’s what Ron, Ginny, Hermione and I have been working on this summer. We decided that if we can’t join the Order we’re going to at least train like them, we want to be able to fight alongside them when the time comes. Although Dumbledore and a few others know about it we’re still going to operate secretly to keep our methods under cover.”
“That’s brilliant! I felt like I was actually learning something in that class, and now that I have a new wand I think I’ll do loads better. Gran said I deserved a new one after everything we did last year.” Neville said proudly, pulling his wand out to show the others.
“Good well we’re not sure when we’re going to start but we’ll get the word out the usual way, unless Hermione has another ingenious method for us to communicate,” Harry teased.
“No I think we’ll keep using the coins, but I have been working on something similar to what the Order members use that I’ll show you when I finish researching it.”
Harry laughed, remembering what Lupin had told him just a few hours ago.
The carriage slowed to a halt outside the main entrance and everyone disbanded and headed up the steps to the Great Hall.

At the entrance stood Dumbledore, smiling warmly and greeting all the students as they walked past the threshold to the school. When he spotted Harry and the others he waved them over to him genially.
“Just the people I was looking for. Mr. Potter and Miss. Weasley, would you two kindly meet with Professor McGonagall after the feast? We must deal with your rather unusual sleeping arrangements” The two teens nodded, unsure to what they were agreeing. “Excellent! Well I shall see you inside then shortly,” and the headmaster turned on the spot and started to head back inside but stopped abruptly, “Oh I nearly forgot. I was able to convince Miss Massey to join us for this school year. She is currently acquainting herself with her fellow first years I believe.” Dumbledore tipped his hat, his eyes twinkling as much as ever, and turned down the hall once again.
Harry turned and smiled at the others then took Ginny’s hand and proceeded to enter the hall with the other students.
Hermione, Ron, Harry, and Ginny all sat down in their usual spots at the Gryffindor table. Harry spotted Hagrid sitting down at the front table and waved happily at him. Hagrid mouthed something which seemed to be ‘visit soon.” He also saw Snape who was sitting in his seat, grim as ever, staring at the mass of students he so greatly despised.
Ron nudged Harry and pointed over at the Slytherin table, where Malfoy sat with Crabbe and Goyle as usual. Malfoy seemed to have a slightly nervous look on his face, as if at any moment something would jump up and grab him. He was also very jumpy; when Pansy sat next to him he almost fell off his seat. Harry was brought back to his table when Neville, Seamus, and Katie Bell all sat down around the group.
“Where were you lot on the train, we looked all over for you! We thought Malfoy might’ve gotten you,” Neville said.
Harry looked around for an explanation; thankfully Hermione was quick as ever. “We were having a meeting with an Auror, about Harry’s protection this year. For when we go to Hogsmeade or on other trips.”
“Like that’s ever going to happen again,” Dean said glumly.
“With You-Know-Who out and about again, I bet we won’t even be able to go to Hagrid’s for class,” Neville added.
“Well we’re going to figure out soon,” Ron said pointing the front table where Dumbledore had stood up and was now moving to the podium. “Welcome back everyone, we will get to the feast soon enough, but first we must sort our new students!” The hall’s doors swung open again and with a little persuasion from McGonagall the nervous group of first years lined up in front of the stool. With relief Harry spotted Emma standing in the group and waved to her, smiling. She spotted him and waved back enthusiastically. Filch tottered in with the small stool and the tattered old Sorting Hat and sat it down unceremoniously in the middle of the room.
Everyone in the Great Hall went silent, ready to listen to the hat’s new song. The long tear at its base opened up and it began:

Merlin’s champions,
His companions.
Stand and unite,
All must prepare to fight.
The war is near,
But do not fear.
My creator’s heir
Will rise again this year.
From my decision
Four of five have risen,
Tonight the fifth will come,
Binding the four to ONE.

The voice faded, and unlike previous years, the murmurs and discussion were absent. Instead, the entire room was dead silent, still staring at the hat, not quite sure about what to make of the Sorting Hat’s newest verses.
With a kind cough from the Headmaster, Professor McGonagall seemed to regain her composure and refocused as she unfurled her scroll of new students.
Archer, Lincoln was sorted into Hufflepuff; followed shortly by Brickman, Sarah being sent to Ravenclaw.
“I don’t know, it doesn’t remind me of any of the others, the old ones just said come together or watch out. This one seemed more like it was telling us that it was doing something,” Ron said over the bursts of applause when Gryffindor got a new student.
“Well at least you listened this time. And it didn’t even seem like a song to me, more like a prophecy. Did you notice it was telling us something?” Hermione added then frowned slightly realizing what she’d just said.
“Who was the Sorting Hat’s creator?” Ginny asked Hermione.
“Don’t remember the song two years ago?” Hermione asked, but not receiving any nods simply continued, “it said that Gryffindor had made it. So whoever will rise this year is going to be Gryffindor’s heir. Wait a minute Emma’s up now, let’s watch.” She said as McGonagall read off “Massey, Emmaline.”
She sat down on the stool, looking just as nervous as everyone else, staring blankly out over the sea of waiting faces. Then McGonagall placed the Hat on top of her head, it was too large for her head so it sunk down over her eyebrows. The hat’s mouth was moving as if it were talking, but Harry strained to hear anything. Apparently whatever it was saying was meant only for Emma’s ears. The hat seemed to take an inordinately long time on choosing where to sort her, and some students started to drift off into conversation or were playing with the silverware. Finally it did come to a decision and shouted out “GRIFFYNDOR!” in a louder voice than usual, surprising some of the students who’d zoned off.
The Gryffindor table burst into applause at their new addition, and Emma hopped smartly off the stool and sat down at the front of the table grinning as she met the other first years. Emma looked down the table and waved to Harry and the rest of the group.
Harry gave Emma a thumbs up then looked up at Dumbledore to see if he approved. The headmaster was clapping politely and did nod his head, but nothing outward. Something unsettled Harry though, the smile on his face and the sorrow in his eyes made Harry feel like the headmaster was hiding something once again.

After the rest of the first years were sorted Dumbledore stood up once again to make his start of term announcements, the hall went quiet very quickly, most everyone was starving and ready for the feast.
“Well now that we have the sorting out of the way let me intrude upon your feast for only a moment more. As usual the Forbidden Forest is just that, forbidden. Professor Umbridge failed to recognize that and has just recently been released from St. Mungos, although her paranoia has not yet dissipated.
“Mr. Filch has informed me that he has forgone the usual list of illicit objects and has simply decided to ban anything with the Weasley Wizarding Wheezes logo on it.” Dumbledore smirked slightly.
“Now onto some scheduling changes. Due to Voldemort’s return, yes I did call him by his name and I suggest you all learn to use it too, we have decided to supplement your learning with several classes the school feels would benefit everyone. First, this year we will not be offering Care of Magical Creatures.” At this many people, mostly Gryffindor, began to murmur in protest. Dumbledore raised a hand to silence them. “Now, now, it does not reflect on Professor Hagrid’s teaching abilities at all, in-fact one reason we are doing it because he now has to care certain new security features we have on campus now, one of which is a dragon. Which, on a side note, is not to be approached under any circumstances.” The headmaster smiled slightly and nodded at Hagrid.
“To replace Care of Magical Creatures we are now offering a mandatory class for all years, it is called Offensive Light Magic; this will be taught in conjunction with Defense Against the Dark Arts.”
Harry examined the front table but couldn’t find any teacher who would be filling the once-again abandoned position. Maybe Dumbledore couldn’t find anyone?
Dumbledore continued, “This class will be taught by trained Aurors, who unfortunately cannot be with us at the moment due to certain circumstances, who will teach you not only how to protect yourself but how to fight back if that is necessary. As for a teacher for Defence Against the Dark Arts, I am afraid the rather high risks involved in the class has scared most potential teachers away, so for the moment I will be teaching the class along with the occasional aide of a former professor.” At that the whole hall burst into applause, no one imagined that Dumbledore himself would teach Defence.
Harry and the rest of the group were standing up applauding. “Well I doubt you could find a more experienced teacher for the job!” Ron shouted across the table to Harry who nodded vigorously.
“Thank, thank you, hopefully my teaching abilities have not worn off over the years. Now without further ado let the feast begin!” Dumbledore said clapping his hands, making the mountains of food appear from nowhere. The whole Hall was soon filled with the noises of cutlery and laughter as old friends caught up, and the first years began to talk amongst each other.
The dinner was amazing, the house elves seemingly trying to outdo themselves every year with more extravagant entrees not to mention the desserts and cakes. Even Hermione thought these were pieces of art and refrained from her usual tirade about enslavement.
“So, Neville, what’d you do over summer?” Harry asked.
“Oh it was brilliant, I worked with Luna on a special project Professor Sprout gave us. It was amazing! We were deriving hybrids, splicing root systems, even matriculating various pollination systems.” Neville said with evident enthusiasm. Harry just nodded, not quite sure what ‘splicing root systems’ meant. He was glad that he’d found someone like Luna to share his enthusiasm of Herbology with.
“I wonder which Aurors are going to be teaching Offensive Light Magic?” Hermione asked.
“’Dunno, Moody maybe? He’s a little worse for the wear now, maybe teaching wouldn’t be too bad for him now,” said Ron.
“Don’t you remember what happened to him last time he signed up to be a teacher Ron?” Hermione said, “I was worried about Hagrid at first, but I bet he couldn’t be happier, he has his own dragon to take care of again. At least this time it’s legal.”
As the desserts and empty plates disappeared and the noise began to rise in volume Dumbledore stood up once again.
“Well then I hope we are all well fed, I see some of you nodding off already. If you’ll bear with me for a few more minutes you shall be off shortly. As you can already tell this year is going to be different from previous ones. Dire times call for dire measures I am afraid. We have been plunged into a war that will rival that of Lord Voldemort’s last reign. Do not delude yourselves, this will not be a fair battle, there will be no duels, no pistols at ten paces. Voldemort is known for his treachery and will certainly not abide by any concept of valour or honour when it comes to fighting. Hopefully you will never have to experience any of this, hopefully we will succeed and defeat him; but, yes unfortunately there is a but, circumstances may dictate a time where all of us will have to make a decision where lives hang in the balance. Our goal here this year is not to teach you how to use the most deadly spells or slyest attacks, but to help you know what to do when you are faced with a decision like that.
I tell you all this in the most blunt of terms because I believe that although you are children you are as much a part of this battle as everyone else. While I will not ask you to fight, I do want you to know what friends and family members are fighting and dying for.
This year will be trying on all of us and only with the support of our whole will we remain strong and steadfast. Although there is darkness all around, light will still burn brightly from those places where hope has yet to be extinguished.” The headmaster smiled softly as he surveyed the silent students, “Now you should all head to your houses, your prefects will supply you with the passwords. And please remember in the spirit of school safety do not give them out to any strangers, and especially do not leave them written on scraps of paper. As the Navy says, loose lips sink ships!” Dumbledore said attempting to liven the mood, but only a few Muggle raised students understood his last line. “Well goodnight then, off to bed! ”
The hall emptied slowly, the usual excitement had instead been replaced with more subdued discussion. Harry and Ginny stood up and followed Ron and Hermione to lead the other Gryffindors to the house but were stopped at the stairs by McGonagall.
“Hey we’ll catch you later, we need to talk to Professor McGonagall about something. Night guys, congratulations Emma!” Harry shouted over the crowd as he and Ginny headed over to the side where she was waiting.
“Mr. Potter, Miss. Weasley, good to see both of you in such high spirits. The Headmaster wanted me to arrange for you rather peculiar sleeping arrangements for this year. We decided that it would set a bad precedent if you two were to share a bed in either of the dorms, and didn’t want to test the limits of this unusual bond by separating you. Therefore we decided to convert the Head Student room attached to the Gryffindor Commons, because the head boy and girl this year are from Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff this room isn’t occupied. We can access it from the commons but first I will show you the other entrance. Follow me please,” McGonagall said as she walked up another set of stairs. Harry and Ginny shared grins and headed up behind her.
After taking a rather confusing and most likely forgettable maze of stairs and passageways McGonagall stopped in front of a painting containing a huge tree in the middle complete with squirrels, foxes, and birds.
“Natura Vera,” McGonagall spoke clearly towards the painting, and it swung open just like the Fat Lady at the entrance of the Gryffindor tower. She stood aside and motioned for the two to enter.
Inside the rather large room was a seemingly exact replica of the Gryffindor common room, complete with fireplace and chess set. The only difference being that there were three other doors in the room.
“This is where you are to stay this year. I must stress however this is not a privilege and should not be flaunted; it is a necessity due to the Heartbond. You may have Miss Granger and Mister Weasley inside but no one else, it is not going to be a hide out, just a bedroom. If I learn of any misconduct,” at that she coughed and Harry and Ginny both blushed, “You will loose this room and will be forced to sleep on the couch in the commons if need be. I need not tell you that you should not go about speaking of your bond, especially around, I am sorry to say, Slytherins. We have already come up with a suitable explanation as to why you are in this room, you have both been chosen by St. Mungos to have a series of medical tests concerning people’s sleeping patterns in relation to stressful situations, such as you-know-who. If anyone asks simply tell them in order for the tests to be successful they must be conducted in a controlled and quiet environment. I am sure that anyone who has been in any of our dorms will quite understand. Any questions?” She asked, both simply nodded. Harry knew that they shouldn’t tell many people about the bond, yet the made up explanation seemed a bit far reaching, but if it was good enough for Dumbledore then it should work.
“Now then let me show you the rest of your arrangements. This door on the far wall is the entrance to the commons room, it comes out from behind the grandfather clock and is guarded by the same password as the portrait entrance. That door, to the left of the fireplace is the entrance to the bathroom, and this door is the bedroom,” she opened it and led them inside. It was a huge king-sized bed covered in red and gold sheets and piled with enough pillows to make it look like a small mountain. There was a small desk, a fireplace, and closets for them to hang their clothes. On the side of the room lay their two trunks along with Hedwig and her cage.
“Wow, this is great!” Harry said, taken aback by lavishness of the room. He had completely forgotten about how they were going to handle the whole sleeping problem and was surprised that Dumbledore had gone through all this trouble.
“We did do a little remodelling, the old room was bare stone and somehow the bed had been turned into a large swimming pool,” McGonagall said, “this doesn’t give either of you an excuse for coming to class late because you slept in. I do expect it to help give you an edge on Quidditch this year though,” McGonagall smiled, she had always had a small soft spot for her victorious house team.
“Thank you for doing this Professor, to tell you the truth I think we’d both completely forgotten about the problem, I’m glad that the Headmaster remembered,” Ginny said stifling a yawn.
“Well just remember not to abuse it. Now it is late and I need to assure that all the other students are situated properly, so if you’ll excuse me.” McGonagall said, and headed out the door, but stopped halfway through it and turned back “Oh, Potter, there seems to have been some sort of error in the O.W.L.s this year, it would seem that you and Mr. Weasley both managed to qualify for N.E.W.T. lever potions, only someone had changed the results. The headmaster has already informed Professor Snape of your enrolment and is expecting to see both of you there on Monday.” At this she turned once again and walked out the portrait.
“I bet you a galleon Dumbledore forced Snape to let us take that class,” Ginny said smiling at Harry.
“I bet you another galleon Snape messed with our test scores. I know I aced the practical part. It’s loads easier without the git breathing down your back the whole time,” Harry said indignantly.
“Should we try and find the others to tell them where we are?” Ginny asked.
“No, McGonagall’ll tell them, don’t worry. Plus you look tired, let’s just go to bed,” Harry said, and went over to his trunk and pulled out a pair of pyjamas. Ginny did the same thing and then jumped happily into the massive stack of pillows laughing as they went flying everywhere. Harry took a running start and jumped onto the bed too laughing as Ginny threw a large pillow at him midair. Although they were tired the pillow fight that ensued lasted several minutes ending with both of them laying panting on the bed.
They both finally got under the covers after hastily remaking the bed and put out the lamp.
Ginny snuggled up next to Harry resting her head on his arm. “Night Potter,” she said softly.
“Sleep tight. Don’t let the nargles bite!” He said laughing and kissed her on the forehead before closing his eyes for his first night’s sleep back at home.