Capítulo 13: The First Moves
January 3, 1998
Paris, France
Gabrielle held Harry's head tight to her chest. He was finally sleeping. She wasn't sure if he had for the last few days.
He was still worked up.
Not that she wasn't herself.
She had been so upset with him at just running off after ordering her to leave. Her veela side was not going to let her mate run into danger without her, and Gabrielle was not going to let the boy she loved get killed.
It didn't help her mood that he was trying to force her back when all she wanted was to stand at his side. That was her place and her decision. She could protect herself and she would protect Harry.
Part of that protection was to make sure he took care of himself, and if sleeping on her like this let him sleep, she would do it all the time. Her hand ran through his hair as she focused on his easy breathing. His breath rolled across her naked breast and tickled at her nipple. It was pleasurable, but her desire was suppressed with her need to take care of him. They had satisfied their needs for each other not long ago. It was what finally had him relaxing enough to fall asleep. He had only meditated the last few nights.
There was a soft knock on the door, and she whispered sweet, soothing nothings to him as she reluctantly slid out from under him and put on a Quidditch shirt she had stolen from him. Her knickers were at the base of the bed, and she slipped them on. The only people here were family, and she really didn't care how presentable she was right now.
Opening the door, she found Renee. "I am sorry to bother you," Renee said in a soft voice.
Gabrielle smiled at her cousin. "I know you would not bother me if it was not important."
Gabrielle stepped into the hall and closed the door to her room. Renee looked a little bothered. "Non. I would not. Is Harry finally sleeping?"
She gave Renee a sad smile. "Oui. I had to tire him out."
Renee gave a mischievous smirk. "I bet. That boy has energy to spare."
Gabrielle gave a satisfied smirk. "I am not disappointed."
Renee waggled her brow before coming serious. Sirius and her were perfect for each other the way her cousin acted. "Are you and Harry serious about leaving Hogwarts and moving here?"
She sighed. "Harry does not want to. He does not want to leave his friends, but he doesn't want to wait to start searching for those evil people. Papa doesn't want us to go back either and is exerting his control over us."
Renee nodded her head. "Gabrielle, it is important for me to know. Sirius is trying to decide what he is going to do, and that will involve whatever Harry is going to do. I want to be near my maman and our family as I get closer. Are you and Harry going to stay here?"
Renee had both her hands over her stomach. Gabrielle understood the protectiveness of a mother, and revered nature, over a child. She moved and hugged Renee, who hugged her back. "I will convince him. Papa has said we can do our level three's next month if we want. I would like a few more months to study, but I am ready. Papa also said the Triwizard Tournament will most likely be canceled under some special clause in our contracts."
Renee sighed into her neck. "I would owe you."
Gabrielle softly laughed. It was more a stress relief than joyful. "Oh, I finally get something over you."
Renee laughed as they separated. "Don't get cheeky with me, little bird."
"I blame it on my fiancé," Gabrielle told her, acting innocent.
Renee laughed again. "I am not a fool. It is you that has corrupted him. Most men can't refuse a tight ass like yours."
Gabrielle scoffed at her cousin. "Harry is not an ass type of man. He prefers my chest and to put his mouth elsewhere." She was a little flush as she finished her sentence.
Renee winked. "I will keep that in mind. Sirius prefers to see my ass pounding into him."
Gabrielle made a face. "I really don't need to know that."
"Like you didn't ask Fleur and I the last few years what to do?" Renee winked at her.
"Yes, and it was also made clear we each have our own preferences. I prefer to look into the eyes of my love, not the pillow."
Renee giggled. "You still have much to learn, little cousin. And it is not always fun to just see the pillow. I will see you in the morning."
Gabrielle looked a little wide eyed at her cousin, unsure she wanted to know if that meant they were still in the bed or not when Renee saw whatever else she saw. "Merde!" Gabrielle muttered. She stood in the cool walkway that overlooked the main entryway for a few. She wanted to go back to Hogwarts too, but after New Year's Eve, she thought it better to get the more advanced training her papa was offering. Harry and her family had to survive.
Opening the door, Harry was rolling around and wrapping himself in the sheets. She hurried over to him and he calmed the moment his head made it into her lap. She spent a long time running her hands through his hair.
Eventually she must have fallen asleep because when she felt him shift next, her body was wrapped around Harry's head with him sleeping with his head on her stomach. She smiled at the peaceful look on his face and fell back to sleep.
-oOo-
January 5, 1998
Hogwarts, Scotland
McGonagall had called her to her office just after breakfast today to give her a letter from Harry. Hermione's heart dropped. There was something about it that she knew was not good if he had not used Hedwig. McGonagall was not sure yet if Harry was returning or not, which made the letter feel ominous.
The attack at the ICW had been all over the Daily Prophet for the last week. She knew Harry and Gabrielle and everyone else she knew had survived, but Dumbledore had announced at dinner that with the death of Julien Sorenson, that the Tri-wizard Tournament was being canceled. Her worst fears were confirmed when he also announced that Durmstrang and Beauxbatons students would be returning home at the end of the week.
Poor Neville had been in a panic before it was determined Esme would be staying for the rest of the year.
She fretted all the way to her room, Luna holding her hand for support. When she got to her room, Hermione ripped open the letter. When she had opened it, Hermione let out a small sob to read it the first time.
She sat in one of her chairs by the fire, reading it for a third time. Luna would typically sit on her lap, but she seemed to sense something as well, and sat across from Hermione.
-o-
Dear Hermione,
I don't know how to really say this, but Gabrielle and I are not coming back to Hogwarts. I don't want to leave you and Luna and everyone, but I can't let things go on the continent.
Hermione, it was Him. I don't know how, but it was a twenty-something-year-old Him.
They tried to kill Gabrielle and everyone they could. It wasn't Death Eaters though. These people were different. They were better trained than what we were told. They were more disciplined. HE looked saner and without reddish eyes or snake-like features.
I think the best way to protect Gabrielle and all of you is to get my IAWL, level three's, next month and join Alain in the ICW. If you are interested, Alain said he would have two more openings this summer, or could find another Department for you and Luna to work in. I have included applications for the IAWL's for Luna for the end of the year. If I remember her birthday is mid-February, right? And she is turning seventeen?
If you want, the Delacours have offered both of your rooms in Paris at their townhouse.
Otherwise, stick close together. I think Malfoy may have plans and I don't want to see you hurt.
If you ever need us, I have mirrors on my desk that are linked. You can call mine, but I still have not been able to link more. Sirius or I will find a way to get to you ASAP.
Dobby will be by to get my things in the next day or two. If you need to send anything with him or borrow any of my books, just let him know.
Gabrielle sends her love and hopes Luna gives you a kiss for us,
Your brother,
Harry.
-o-
On her fourth time of trying to read it through her tears, Luna moved to be kneeling before her and took the parchment. Hermione didn't protest. She just put her head into her hands. Her best friend was leaving, and she thought she had months left before she had to say goodbye to him.
Luna moved and put her hands on Hermione's thighs. "He isn't leaving you, you know."
Hermione got out through her tears, "I... know. But... he is."
Luna let her cry for a few before lifting her hands up and cupping Hermione's face. Hermione let the beautiful blonde pull her chin up. She looked into Luna's sky-blue eyes. They were full of love and caring. "Harry would never leave you. You are his sister. He will not hesitate to come when you need him."
"He has a fiancée now," she started.
"And you are family. Is there anything Harry values over family?" Luna put to her, as though this was not the first time.
After a few, Hermione got her tears under control. "No. Harry values family above everything."
"And he sees this as a way to protect his family," Luna affirmed.
Hermione nodded. Luna's thumb wiped the tear streaks on her cheeks. Hermione closed her eyes and cuddled her cheeks into Luna's hands. A moment later, she let out a small sigh after Luna gently kissed her. "Have I told you I love you?" Luna asked.
Hermione's eyes shot open. She was looking into Luna's eyes again. "Really?" Hermione questioned.
Luna gave her a pleasant smile. "I love you, Hermione Jean Granger. You have such a big heart and value family over all others as well. If you didn't find me so irresistible, you may have fallen for Harry."
Hermione giggled at her girlfriend. "We tried that. It didn't work out."
Luna giggled this time, her fingers caressing Hermione's cheeks. "Then it is good you are still family."
Hermione smiled and shared a pleasant kiss with Luna. When Luna pulled back, she kissed Hermione's nose, then her eyelids, finally her forehead. "Better?"
Hermione looked deeply into Luna's eyes before launching herself at Luna. Luna sat tall on her knees, embracing Hermione as hard as Hermione was embracing her. "I love you too," Hermione whispered into Luna's ear. Luna moved and took her ear lobe in her mouth. Hermione let out a soft moan, even though she wasn't sure she was in the mood at the moment.
"I love you," Luna whispered then started to trail kisses down her neck. Hermione let out a contented sigh before moving her head to the side to let Luna kiss all the way down to her collar bone. "Should I show you how I love you?" Luna asked.
Her voice was a sexy purr that sent a shiver through Hermione. How did this girl have such power over her? "I'm not sure. I have a transfig... sssss," she gently hissed out as Luna's hand moved down her neck and then ran over her chest. She took in a sharp breath as Luna's fingers found her nipple through her shirt and bra.
"I can stop," Luna told her.
Hermione, like usual, found she enjoyed Luna's touches too much. "I really should do that report," Hermione said, not really sounding that convincing.
Luna stopped kissing her and her hand moved down to Hermione's waist. "Later then," Luna told her, putting her head on Hermione's shoulder. The girl sounded frustrated.
Hermione's heart was already increasing its rapid beat in her chest, and she whinged, "You stopped."
There was a brief pause, and Luna pulled back, the sexiest, dreamiest smile on the blonde's face. "You mean you don't want me too?" Luna's hand moved up and brushed the swell of her chest again.
Hermione moaned. A second later, she grabbed Luna's face and it was soon a full-on snog. She found herself unbuttoning Luna's top frantically, while her girl took her time. When they were both free of their shirts and bra, Hermione pulled Luna to her, enjoying the feel of the girl's chest on hers. Luna let out a moan that shook Hermione when she gently rolled Luna's nipples in her fingers.
"I want to do something," Luna told her, the sultry tone to her voice making Hermione's already damp panties grow wet.
"What?" Hermione asked. Luna gave her a kiss and then a mischievous smile. Luna's hands moved down to Hermione's legs, up her skirt and Hermione shivered again as the girl's fingers found the top of her knickers. So far, they had not wandered farther than no shirts and bra's and rubbing over their knickers. Today, Luna pulled at Hermione's knickers, her eyes looking longingly into Hermione's. Hermione bit her lip and nodded.
Luna pulled her knickers off and Hermione moved to help. Luna pushed her back onto the chair then started to trail kisses down her neck, then her chest and stomach. Hermione knew where Luna was heading and took Luna's hair in hers. She groaned a needy urge when Luna dropped her head between Hermione's thighs. Luna took her time kissing up her thighs. Hermione was quivering in anticipation and knew she was very wet when Luna sniffed her. "I like your smell. Do you taste as sweet?" Luna asked.
"Please, Luna," Hermione begged and let out a squeak when Luna's mouth finally met her slit. Luna took her time, putting feathery kisses on her folds before she felt Luna's tongue. Hermione had never given such a moan of pleasure until that moment. "Please," she begged Luna again.
Luna explored her most womanly core with her tongue, her lips, and then she slipped a finger into her. Hermione was panting and holding Luna's head to her crotch as she was brought to the most explosive orgasm she had ever had. Luna's tongue didn't stop, and she started to see stars after a moment. When Luna finally stopped, Hermione was panting and felt like a puddle. She wasn't sure there wasn't a puddle on the floor with how Luna had drawn out her orgasm.
When she caught the satisfied smile on Luna's shiny face, Hermione pulled Luna to her and gave Luna a deep, deep kiss. She tasted herself on Luna's lips and in Luna's mouth. Hermione had never been so turned on. "Merlin," Hermione got out through her ragged breaths when Luna pulled back.
"Whenever you want to return the favor or have me do that again, just let me know," Luna whispered against her lips. Luna ran her hand against Hermione's still wet folds. Hermione moaned against Luna's lips.
"If you give me a few more minutes and stop that, I will kiss you wherever you want," Hermione said. Luna continued to play with her slit and she felt it wouldn't take much to bring her to an orgasm again. Her body was already quivering at the touch.
Luna's smile had her falling in love with the girl more. "Maybe in a bit. I like the sounds you make when I play with you."
"Tease," Hermione said before letting out a squeak and groan when Luna slipped two fingers in her.
"If that is what you want," Luna replied with a teasing smile. "I like teasing."
Hermione whimpered as Luna did what she was going to do.
For the first time, Luna did not make it back to her dorm that night. As Head Girl, Hermione should have insisted, but she was enjoying having the naked blonde curled up against her too much. Hermione had been surprised how much noise Luna could make when Hermione used her own tongue, or how turned on she got from it. Until Luna turned seventeen next month, she wasn't allowed to stay in Hermione's rooms. As she held Luna, Hermione found she didn't care if she was breaking the rules. Things were probably going to get bad out there, and she would hold onto someone she loved.
Luna was right.
Hermione Granger was a family person.
-oOo-
January 9, 1995
Hogwarts, Scotland
Alain had agreed to come back to Scotland for a special meeting. Sirius, his brother Pierre, the ex-Auror Moody, the current DMLE Head Amelia Bones and the ICW Auror Head Le Brun were all in the man's office.
"I wanted to thank you all for coming today. I would have preferred to have this meeting at the ICW, but since the Unspeakables and Aurors have still not determined how the wards were breached, I thought this was a safer option," Albus Dumbledore said.
"That madman and his Woodmen have attacked three more times in the last week. They are going after Council members and Representatives of those countries considered progressive or neutral," Director Le Brun stated.
"I am aware of that. I have information that I thought necessary to share. I have only called the heads or other people important to this here. What will be talked about today will be considered British state secrets, and top security level for the ICW," Dumbledore said rather solemnly.
"What haven't you told us, Albus?" Director Amelia Bones questioned in an icy tone.
Albus sighed. "Many things, Amelia. This is one of the largest."
Alain listened as Albus Dumbledore told them all about the last Blood War, Voldemort and a prophecy that caused a child to have his parents murdered and to be marked as the one in the prophesy. Alain, Sirius and Moody already knew all this. The others did not, and the reaction was a little explosive.
Once they calmed down, Amelia asked, "So, what now? We just let this madman run rampant over the continent and foment a new Wizarding War? Why didn't you tell us this years ago! You know the last continental war nearly brought down all the walls between us and the Muggles and how many were killed on both sides?"
Le Brun looked just as disgruntled. "Merde! My father spent two years in that hell hole Nurmengard for defying Grindelwald. Now you are saying a new lunatic is trying to pick up where he left off?" the man said in a heavy French accent.
Albus sighed. "I thought he could be contained here. Harry Potter has been heavily trained in the last few years to fight him when the time came. We have found four of Voldemort's horcruxes, but I fear there are still two or three that we have not found. The fact he was at the ICW ball, and looked like he was in his early twenties, has me believing that one of the unfound horcruxes has been used to bring him pack. The magic in his new form is far more advanced than the horcrux Harry destroyed his second year."
Alain spoke for the first time. "Supreme Mugwump, I find this a dereliction of your duty to not inform our Aurors or Unspeakables of this. You could have had resources far above you and your little group for years now. Or the fact you did not even notify your own Ministry is reprehensible."
"Head Delacour, I could not tell anyone in our Ministry. Death Eaters and sympathizers were still everywhere. Many wanted Harry, either to kill him, figure out how Voldemort was killed or to use him to further their political careers. That was why, when I became Harry's guardian, I forbid anyone to interact with him until he was out of Hogwarts," Albus said. "There is still a large danger, but he is of age and can now make his own decisions."
"Harry is taking up his positions in the ICW and in Britain," Sirius informed the old man. "He has decided to live in Paris with the Delacours for now."
Albus looked to deflate some. "Sirius, I have told you that Harry is needed here. Voldemort will come back here, and Harry will need to be ready..."
"Voldemort is on the continent," Le Brun stated. "The ICW Aurors will be working with Gentilhomme Delacour and his ambassadors to have a coordinated response to this. Senior Auror Moody shall be the English representative. Should you need us, we shall be at your call, Director Bones."
Amelia nodded. "One way or another, I will have Fudge's signature on the agreement today. Mr. Delacour, is there any assistance that I can provide today? I do have some influence with our Magical Cooperation Department."
"All I need is to have Seigneur Potter's dual-citizenship ratified and to see if you can get his seat confirmed. Fudge promised he would bring it up at the last Wizengamot meet and somehow it was pushed to the spring meet," Alain said angrily.
"After the attack and the death of our Representative on New Year's Eve, Fudge is not as willing to put his head into the sand. There are rumors that some of the escaped Death Eaters are back," Bones told them.
"Yes, I have heard those rumors too. I have also heard they may have been chased out of Europe by these new Woodmen," Dumbledore added.
"I had not heard that. Are you saying Voldemort is not using his old people?" the ruff voice of Moody asked.
"It's a possibility. If this is a younger version of Voldemort, he may not be able to get their respect, or even know who they are," Dumbledore replied. "It is unknown when he created the Dark Mark, but the man was in his early forties when the first rumors of his cause and the Death Eaters started, and he was nearly sixty when the war became as bad as it was last time."
"So, we have a man that has no control over the first terrorist group he made?" Moody commented dryly.
"Merlin! So, we have two terrorist groups trying to gain control?" Bones queried.
"It is a good possibility," Alain commented, thinking on what Dumbledore just said. Alain had not thought about that possibility.
"Merde!" Le Brun swore again.
Alain nodded. It was his sentiments exactly.
Dumbledore spoke again. "Alain and Sirius, are you sure Harry will not return? He is Head Boy this year. With the death of Julien Sorenson and the cancellation of the Tournament, many are restless here and could use the reassurance of having Harry back. I could train him for at least the next few months while he is still in Hogwarts," Dumbledore offered, sounding desperate.
"Albus, our agreement was that you would not influence, train or manipulate Harry into anything else until Harry asked you. Harry is old enough to decide if he wants to seek you out or not, but I will not recommend it or even suggest it. You screwed his life up enough and you don't need to do that anymore," Sirius said in a hard tone.
"Harry is recognized as my heir. Since the British Government refuses to recognize him as the Lord he is of House Potter, I have claimed Head of House rights that he shall remain in France for now. Gabrielle and him are studying to take their level thee IAWL's next month. At that time, they will be fully qualified and will become my interns," he informed Dumbledore.
Dumbledore sighed. "I really wish you would all reconsider, but I have no choice but to accept this."
"No, you don't have any choice," Sirius snarked.
"Gentilhomme Delacour and Supreme Mugwump Dumbledore, I will be putting in a request to establish International teams and a few regional Headquarters. Can I ask for your support to have this brought up to the Council next week?" Le Brun asked.
"You have my full support and I assure you that many will support this," Alain spoke up.
Dumbledore sat back in his chair. "Are you sure escalating this is the proper approach right now?"
Alain leveled a hard look at the aged wizard. "We have sat for three years as all this has slowly built up. You were there New Year's Eve and even you were held off for the eight minutes it all happened in. This is not a threat to just be ignored or try diplomacy on. All my efforts will be spent on building alliances to counter this threat and to see my daughter, her mate and everyone I hold dear, safe and to live for many, many years."
All but Dumbledore seemed to agree with him. The old man sighed. "I just wish to avoid more bloodshed."
"Blood has already been shed and it won't stop until we stop them, Albus," Moody said. "We made that mistake after Voldemort was defeated the first time. I will not see that happen again."
"Very well. I will support the legislation and help to procure whatever funds you need, Director Le Brun," Dumbledore stated.
"Merci, Supreme Mugwump," Le Brun replied.
"Lord Black, will you help with similar legislation here?" Bones enquired.
"You just tell me when you need me back and I will be here," Sirius promised.
Alain left the meeting feeling a little better than he had. For two years now, he and a group on the council had been trying to get Dumbledore and Britain to join in the investigations and actions that were growing more frequent. Until now, the pacifist in Dumbledore had ruled over many.
Alain would not let this opportunity pass. The Woodmen and Death Eaters needed to be defeated. He had to admit, he wanted some revenge as well.
Upon leaving the headmaster's office, Alain accompanied Sirius down to the office of the transfiguration professor. Inside, they found the slightly bushy haired girl that Gabrielle had become friends with over the last year and a half, and a slight blonde that had sky-blue eyes that looked to be looking through him.
"Mademoiselle Granger," Alain greeted her, kissing the back of her hand. "I admit to not knowing you, ma chéri."
The blonde gave him a dreamy smile. "Luna Lovegood, Monsieur. May I say Gabrielle is rather nice?"
He chuckled. "I will make sure she knows."
"Minerva," Sirius said. "Why are Hermione and Luna in trouble, and why would you want us?"
The woman behind the desk had a severe look to her face. It was much the same the previous two times he had met her in the last two months. "When I heard you were here today, I was hoping you might talk some sense into these two, and maybe I can press to have Mr. Potter returned?"
Alain chuckled. "Returned? It is as though we borrowed him?" Alain said jovially, hoping to see a smile crack the woman's face.
She shook her head. "You're influence?" she questioned Sirius with a raised eyebrow.
Sirius laughed. "No. He came that way."
The two girls smirked but didn't say anything. Alain thought he would use it. "My dear wife laments her suffering of my humour at times."
The older woman cracked a small uptick to her mouth. "I had hoped you would be a good influence on Mr. Potter and maybe straighten out my former student. Alas, hopes are dashed every day."
"They are, madam. I do hope I may redeem myself some. As for Mr. Potter, I am afraid he has chosen to remain in France for now and take his IAWL's next month," Alain told her. Sirius had a huge grin on his face.
"I see. So, I have you to blame for taking my Head Boy, and now that Head Boy is trying to poach my Head Girl and one of the top students of sixth-year," she dryly retorted.
Alain looked down at the two girls. Sirius started to laugh. "He keeps denying he is a Marauder," the other man got out between laughs.
"I was not aware he had offered either of them anything before the summer. We had talked the other day, but I thought he meant after Ms. Granger graduated," Alain replied.
"That would be my preference," Minerva McGonagall stated.
Hermione looked up to him. "Mr. Delacour, Harry sent me a letter a few days ago saying why he is not coming back. He said you offered myself, and Luna, positions this summer. I have been training with him for years and if Vol... Voldemort is back, then none of us are safe. I would rather be helping Harry now than finish here."
Minerva pursed her lips. Alain looked critically at the girl. Both Harry and Gabrielle talked very highly of her. "What are your ambitions?"
"Oh, I would like to find new creatures, but supporting Hermione in creature and race relations and rights is a noble cause as well. Will we be able to look for new creatures?" Luna said next to Hermione.
Hermione shook her head slightly. "Luna, please let me answer."
"Oh, I'm sorry, luv. Carry on," Luna said, a smile on her face.
Sirius was shaking in silent laughter as Alain regarded them. Hermione went on. "My plans were to apply to the Ministry in the Department of Magical Beings. Working to better our relations with other species and the situation of those, like House Elves, is one of my largest ambitions. I also like to dabble in arithmancy and magical theory."
Alain thought about it for a few. "I have a small group that works with those departments, and I oversee the Goblin and Dwarf Relations department. I can have you train with Harry and Gabrielle in international and interracial relations starting in July. It will be a three year or more program."
"You will not consider me before July?" Hermione pushed.
He gave her an indulgent smile. "Ms. Granger, Gabrielle and Harry are the heirs to the Delacour line. Being on the Senior Council gives me some privileges to stretch the rules for my family, especially if I can claim it training for them to take over from me when I retire. I cannot stretch those same privileges to you. I can promise you that if you do well on either your NEWT's or Level three IAWL's, I can push your application through and have you start the first of July, perhaps even a week or two earlier than that."
"But, Harry will need me right now," Hermione pressed.
Seeing that he would not be able to convince her easily, he put in, "If you take your IAWL's earlier, I can arrange for some tutoring here at Hogwarts to get you ready for a position as a Liaison."
Hermione seemed to perk up. "Brilliant," she said with a small smile. "What of Luna?"
"Is Ms. Lovegood advanced enough to pass her IAWL's a year early?"
"Oh, yes, sir. I am doing Care of Magical Creatures, Defence Against the Dark Arts, Transfiguration, Runes, Muggle Studies and Charms. My OWLs all had special marks in those and the tester said I was at a NEWT level when I took them last year" Luna told him.
He looked to their Professor and she nodded. "I feel Ms. Lovegood could achieve an Exceeds Expectations, or higher, in all of those NEWTs if tested today."
"That is high praise from old Minnie," Sirius said, which earned him a glare from the older woman.
Alain thought for a moment. He could easily have Harry and Gabrielle as interns. They were heirs to a Senior Councilor position. It was expected they would spend sometime learning. Ms. Granger would be a huge asset once she was trained. Not many had the obvious drive and ambition for the field of work she wanted.
Luna was a different story. She was only in her sixth year. The girl obviously tended towards creatures, which was not in his purview. Would she be happy to do something else? He would have to call in a favor to have someone so young earn a first year or intern position.
If his son-in-law thought she was worth it, though, he would have to take that into consideration.
"I will tell you what. Hogwarts is still a very safe place and you can still learn much here. If you apply and are accepted to take the level three IAWL's for end of June and pass all with an Exceeds Expectation or better, I will find a place for you," he offered the girls.
Hermione's face showed her determination. He was unsure of Luna. She smiled and started to hum. "We will not let you down, Mr. Delacour," Hermione assured him.
He gave them both a smile. "I am sure you will not."
"Can you not convince Mr. Potter to come back until that time?" Minerva pressed.
Alain shook his head. "I am afraid not. The incident the other day has convinced us that Harry is someone of particular interest and he is under protection for now. Once he passes his IAWL's, he will start working with me."
The woman sighed. "Very well. At least I get to keep Ms. Granger."
-oOo-
January 15, 1998
Paris, France
Gabrielle was looking at the bare chest of Harry as he pumped through his pushups. She was doing the workouts with him, but she was not to the point he was. Ten years of ballet and the new workouts she had started with him over a month ago did not allow her to keep up with him. Not yet.
Harry counted to a hundred, but she had to stop at seventy with he pace he was setting. As he did, she enjoyed the way his muscles rippled and she wanted to drag him back to bed... but only because she doubted maman would like them making love in the middle of the ball room.
When he stopped, he met her eyes. She loved his green eyes, thinking she could just stare into them all day.
"You keep looking at me like that and I am going to make you workout without a shirt," Harry teased.
She shrugged, taking her shirt off and now only in her sports bra. She liked the way his eyes seemed to smolder with his need. "I would work out nude if I didn't think maman would mind," she said with a saucy smirk.
Harry chuckled. "I doubt our workouts would be the same in that case."
"Perhaps not, but they would be more fun," she said, leaning over to kiss him.
After that, they got a little more serious for a while more before getting ready for the day and going to the kitchens. She always found herself hungry after trying to keep up with Harry. Sitting down, she was pleased to find a steaming cup of coffee and a few crepes with lots of fresh fruit before her. Harry's breakfast was heavier with bacon, eggs and fried tomatoes, but he was starting to eat more fruit with his breakfast. While they were eating, Remy brought them a few letters and two newspapers.
"Madam Delacour wanted you to see the newspapers today," Remy told them.
She scrunched her brow, leaning over to put her head on Harry's shoulder as he picked up the French papers. The fruit churned in her stomach as she saw the headlines:
Terrorist Group, the Woodmen, release manifesto
"Merde," she said quietly, reading the paper. The group was demanding the overthrow of the ICW, the return of Wizarding rule over muggles and the cleansing of magical blood of all creatures.
"All the representatives and countries targeted so far support muggle rights, creature and being rights or have Senior Council members," Harry commented. She felt how tense he was. It was like a spring ready to go.
"Is that what Riddle supported last time?" she put to him.
Harry shook his head. "No. Riddle and the Death Eaters wanted a pureblood society that was just wizards. I think they would have preferred to kill all the Muggles."
She wrapped an arm around him. "Do you have to kill him?"
Harry sighed. "It depends if you believe in Prophecy or whether you interpret this new Riddle to be the same as the one that marked me," he replied, his hand going to the almost unnoticeable scar on his forehead.
"Do you think there could be more?"
Harry shifted and kissed her on the top of the head. "I hope not. We are still looking for other horcruxes. Sirius and your father are convinced a horcrux had to be used for this Riddle to come back. Given what we have found, they think there may be one more and the original soul piece. Sirius is also convinced that a body made from a horcrux is mortal. I'm not so sure."
"Why?"
"I don't know... just a feeling," Harry replied, kissing her on the head again. "I won't let them harm you or our family."
As much as her heart sank at the thought, she had a warm feeling in her. Harry was already looking at her and her family as his. In her heart and soul, she already was his. "I will not let you get hurt either."
He wrapped an arm around her shoulder as they read more of the paper. She really liked to be held against him like this. A few moments later, Harry asked, "Gabrielle?"
"Yes?"
"Would Easter be too soon for us to be married? I know we won't be eighteen yet, but I'm not sure I want to wait..."
Harry didn't get to finish what he was going to say before she had moved, and her mouth found his. It was a deep, needy kiss that lasted moments. She knew why he was suggesting it. He was afraid of something happening. She was too, but she didn't want him to say it. When she pulled back, he had that goofy grin she loved so much.
"Yes. I would marry you today if you want," she told him.
Harry laughed. She could hear the strain from New Year's Eve and this paper, but he was starting to lighten up again. "I would think your papa would want to walk you down the aisle?"
"I want him too, but I want to call you my husband," she said rather possessively. Her veela was feeling the pull particularly strongly today, especially with the news. Harry wanted her for her. He didn't care about her heritage. He didn't care what the psychotic people in the papers were saying.
Harry pecked her lips. "Impatient little bird, aren't you?"
She pouted. "You would deny me this?"
"I never said that. Maybe we should talk to your parents and Sirius tonight?" he proposed.
A satisfied smile came over her face. "We better. Now, we have studying to do and then you are going to come lay in my bed for a while when we are done."
"Bossy little bird too," he teased.
"Just for that I am going to make you suffer later."
Harry laughed. "I hardly call laying with you suffering."
She knew she had a predatory smirk on her face. "I never said it would be a bad suffering, but you will beg me before I am done."
His eyes gave her a challenge. "Like you begged me last night?"
That had been fun, and incredibly frustrating, last night. She had begged him to give her a release. "I may not be as merciful," she replied playfully.
He just smirked then kissed her for a few.
After that, they returned to their breakfasts while Harry read more of the papers.
-oOo-
January 21, 1998
Stockholm, Sweden
Alain stood in his office looking at the window. It was showing what it looked like in Paris right now. The top of Tour d'Eiffel was lost in a low bank of clouds as a misty rain fell. A few reports lay on his desk. They were a little disturbing. It seemed that Russian Tsar Royal Guard forces were following what appeared to be dissidents in the Yugoslavia region. A group of men in green cloaks were working with No-Maj soldiers. Reports of a brewing conflict had him worried. The ICW couldn't afford a major breach of the Statue of Secrecy, but the region was ripe right now, especially since that was an area that the Tsar and the Russian Republic had quibbled over for the better part of the last forty years.
When a knock came at his door, Alain called out, "Come in."
"Director Delacour, Usef Gilinsky from the Albanian Consulate is here to see you," a young man said after opening the door.
"Let him in," Alain said, moving to stand behind his desk. A man of medium height and stocky build walked through the door. He had a broad mustache and stood straight. "Afternoon, Representative Gilinsky. Can I offer you some refreshments?"
"A nice single, malt and some coffee to follow will be nice," the man said in heavily accented English. The man moved in, and they shook hands before Alain motioned him to sit.
Once Gavin closed the door, Alain said, "I am glad you could take the time out of your busy day to see me."
The man inclined his head. "Thank you for the invitation, Director. I must admit though, I was a little surprised by it. Albania is not usually so popular."
Alain rose an eyebrow. "I was not aware I was making you so. Albania has never been a loud voice in the ICW, and our countries have usually gotten along."
"Yes, I agree. What makes us so popular is the number of invitations I have received in the last few days. The ICW. The MACUSA. The Holy Roman Empire. The Russian Empire. Other... unsavory sorts. I could be excused for thinking we have become a major player," Usef said.
Alain filed that all away. As much as the Representative may like or not like his new position, he wasn't far from the mark. "I would normally share your demure nature, but I assume you are aware of the reports that were made to the Council two days ago?"
The man cringed. "I lost two good friends that night, Director Delacour. At this time, my government is not prepared to talk about who perpetrated those crimes or others. Nor am I authorized to ask for any help. It may endanger others to talk about such," the man said.
Gavin chose the opportune time to knock and enter again. A tray was placed on his desk with a tumbler of scotch, tea and some biscotti. While that was happening, Alain thought over what the man had just said and what he hadn't.
"I have been thinking that the Security Forces of my department have not had much experience in working with other governments yet. I have the funds to have eight of my Aurors to train for two months. They could potentially work with your Aurors, or those you deem would profit most from such training," Alain offered.
What he was really offering was eight observers to enter into the Albanian Ministry and work with them to determine what was going on or supply guards for a high-profile person that may not feel safe.
Usef poured himself a good finger of the amber liquid, downed it, then started to add a few teaspoons of sugar to his cup of coffee. It was going to be way too sweet for Alain's liking, but the man looked to need the encouragement.
"I think eight is a good start, but it might be better for a full corps of thirty or more to train with our forces. Kosovo has seemed rather restless and having ICW Aurors becoming familiar with the area and networking with our top Aurors might be best," the man said.
"I have the eight I can send for training. Probably a diplomat or two to just ensure they get along. I will have a meeting with Director LeBrun tomorrow and see if he would like to join in this joint training," Alain proposed.
Usef nodded his agreement before taking a sip of his coffee. "I will notify my home offices about this. I am sure they will not object."
"Excellent. Now, how would your Ministry feel about a slight increase in the ICW budget? We would like to train auxiliary Aurors and Hit Wizards to be ready to take over when some of our top people may retire over the next few years," Alain put to the man.
Usef frowned. "Many already feel they are paying more than they should to the ICW. That might be a hard sell."
"If we can a five-percent increase passed next month, I could see about fifty Aurors looking for training," Alain said. A five percent increase would hardly pay for three Aurors from Albania. But across the board, Alain could see almost two hundred being available within the next three years.
Usef thought about it for a moment. "Now... that might be something I can sell. How long would the training last?"
"At least for a year, probably as many as three," Alain suggested.
Usef nodded. "I can get back to you within the week if we will back such a proposal."
"Excellent. Now, I hear you are an avid fan of dueling. Did you see the last match between Yuri Elephsie of Libya and Phillip del Franco of Portugal?" Alain enquired. He had been there two nights ago, as much as his wife didn't like it, at the invitation of the Portuguese representative.
Usef smiled. "It was a very good match, though I found that girl from Hogwarts much more interesting. She just moved up from the underage league this year. Sue Li, I think her name was? She dominated Alexi Garcia in that match."
Alain nodded his agreement. The girl had been a powerhouse and tricky. It reminded him of when he used to watch a certain Professor when he used to duel on the circuit. "She is rather impressive. I believe she is graduating this year from the same school my future son-in-law was at."
"I heard your daughter managed to snag the famous Harry Potter. I am sure that will give you a boost around here," Usef commented.
"I am sure it will, but I would never use him that way. My daughter would not allow that."
The man chuckled. "My youngest is just getting to that age. I just hope she will remain virtuous. It would be nice if Natalia was at school with her brother, but she is at Beauxbatons while Suri went to Durmstrang..."
It was a nice hour Alain spent with Usef, getting to know him and feeling out how 'training' the ICW Aurors would work out.
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