Ghost Hour at Hogwarts

Previously: Danny looked at him curiously and Harry whispered quietly "I can't destroy it yet but I also don't want to wear it. Any ideas?" the halfa was thoughtful for a moment before grabbing the locket and turning to Harry's Hogwarts trunk. In front of it he made his hand and locket intangible and placed the locket in the lid of the trunk. It was stuck there now and since he surrounded it with light ectoplasm no one would be able to extract it. If Harry asked he could take it easily out again, until then it was safely stowed away.

The twins stood next to each other for awhile, neither one saying anything. They both knew that this, the quiet and peacefulness wouldn't last for much longer. They were both too much of trouble magnets and important in their respective worlds. However, every hero could allow themselves a small break from time to time...

...........................

The following days all passed by in a blur for the twins. Danny studied rigorously and Harry reconciled with his friends and helped clean the house. They made huge progress, only for the next day to have chaos reign supreme once more- thanks to Kreacher.

The little, vicious house elf was more of a burden than any help and if it weren't for Harry's good natured soul, he would shake the elf and ask him why he felt the need to make everything harder?? As they cleaned, the old elf kept sneaking little and mostly cursed trinkets to his own small chamber. More than once Sirius had to step in and order Kreacher to put the objects back so that they may cleanse them and then throw them away.

What was even worse: Kreacher somehow managed to do the complete opposite of the usual work description of a house elf. He managed to get the cleaned rooms back to their dusty and unwelcoming state within a couple of hours. Harry kept wondering why he would do such a thing and made it his goal to find out, if only so that Sirius wouldn't go completely crazy alone in a house that was far from welcoming. His godfather already had too much on his plate.

Harry smiled a little as he watched Sirius and his brother talking about animagi. He too was interested but had barely any time as it is. From what he heard, it took almost a whole year and one couldn't talk for three months. So yeah, considering a megalomaniac and murderer was after him, while trying to take over Wizarding Britain, he couldn't even try to become an animagus just yet.

While they cleaned, Harry's mind was fortunately set on other, more trivial things, like cleaning. That meant he didn't think about his upcoming trial too much and was almost shocked when during one evening his godfather spoke up to ask him if he was nervous "It is completely understandable if you are nervous, Harry. Don't worry though, they can't convict you of having done anything wrong, still, I wouldn't put it past the wretched Ministry to try anyways. The dementors have to have gotten orders from someone and we know that it wasn't Voldemort."

Several people flinched at the mention of the name and Danny looked at Harry in exasperation, they both thought the fear of Voldemort's name was getting ridiculous. Sure, Sirius had mentioned that there used to be some sort of spell on the name and when someone said it out loud, Voldemort would know where the person was and could apparate there. However, right now they were in a house put under the Fidelius Charm which meant that Voldemort couldn't come in even if he wanted to. And at Hogwarts? Well, the wards pretty much prevented apparition, so they could say his name there, too.

Besides, Harry was pretty sure that Voldemort did not want anyone to know that he was back, it probably brought some sort of sick satisfaction to him to read all the rubbish the Ministry was spouting about him and Dumbledore.

Trying to not think about the two old and meddling wizards who thought Harry's life was solely for their own amusement, he turned his thoughts back to the more imminent problem: the trial. He sighed and it felt as though there was a whole planet weighing on his shoulders. He once read about Atlas and wondered idly how one could stand the pressure for even a second. Bloody powerful one would have to be for sure.

Still, he smiled at the people waiting for an answer, even though it probably looked like a grimace if Danny's amusement over their connection was anything to go with "I'm not nervous, I'm peachy, actually." That earned him a raised eyebrow as Harry swallowed dry toast "No, I mean it. I just wish I could blast their brains out, since they obviously are idiotic enough to think this charade would be of any use. I bet it wouldn't change much, seeing as they aren't listening to, what did 'Mione say? Common sense..." he drifted off when he noticed the disturbed expressions from most Weasleys, Danny just continued to eat in silent support and Sirius grinned, showing his teeth in the process "Totally understandable, prongslet. You have my full support. Siriusly, putting an innocent man in Azcaban, forcing a fifteen year old to show up to a hearing, even though he just defended himself... just what is this world coming to."

The man shook his head in mock disappointment and Harry and Danny couldn't hold back their laughter. By now, the rest just tried to ignore them and started their own conversations.

Danny leaned over mischievously and whispered "I'm sure as the BWL you'll have deadly support," leaning back he added a little louder "Even so, if they do decide to do something foolish, you'll just move to the US with me. From what I've learned, I think they don't care much about British Dark Lords and whatnot."

Sirius stepped in "Now, if Harry gets expelled he'll live with me, of course."

"You are literally a fugitive", Danny reminded him drily.

Sirius waved the boy's doubts carelessly aside "Doesn't matter, I'll make sure he's emancipated and live as his dogfather by his side."
Danny snorted at the thought and added "What if they want him to live with muggles? We both agree the Dursley's are out of the question, so my parents would do nicely."

Now Harry really did smile, his two most favorite people, his true family, cared so much for him. It filled him with warmth and he could see Danny feeling it, too. He also didn't forget that his twin basically just promised to be there during the trial, supporting him. He still hoped that they wouldn't kick him out of Hogwarts though. That would be quite bothersome. Hogwarts was his home, he wouldn't let anyone take her from him. Maybe the deadly support, as Danny so snidely had said, was to be taken literally and Danny didn't mind sending people off into the after life. He hoped he was wrong, he would still love his brother though and that was another worrying thought.

Shaking his head, knowing that Danny would never, he tuned back in to the conversation, just in time to hear Sirius loudly proclaim something "I'm telling you, purebloods love rings. It was a pureblood who invented the damn things 2000 something years ago!"

Danny just shook his head in exasperation and glanced down at the ring on his finger. If Harry wasn't imagining things, then said ring was glowing slightly. How did they even come to talk about that?

Danny answered "Preeeetty sure that's wrong. Wixen have only existed for about 1,200 years, before that it was mages and sorcerers. Rings have existed way before that. Also, everyone used to be able to become a magician, since magic was everywhere but over the years the rites were forgotten and people just assumed that magic is hereditary.

"I'm not trying to put words into your mouth, dear uncle, but I sincerely believe that some tales are just that- tales. You are right though, in the library is a whole tome depicting all the Black Lord and Heir rings over time, explaining each ones history. So yeah, they are obsessed with proclaiming their status and power"

Sirius blinked at him, for once stunned silent and Hermione made big wondrous eyes at Danny, as though she is seeing him for the first time today. Harry and Ron internally groaned, they locked eyes and both had the same thought 'another one'. The two friends grinned at each other. There was nothing wrong with that but Harry was still amazed about how much more Danny seemed to know already than him.

Usually, Harry could use the argument that he was muggle-raised and that Hermione was just overly excited about knowledge, which allowed him to not feel bad about his lack of, well, knowledge about his culture. He just couldn't sit still and just read- that felt like pure horror to him.

Besides, he barely survived every year. So instead, he enjoyed Quidditch as well as just walking the school grounds much more than reading. If he were to die prematurely at least he could do so with nice experiences. Like freedom, as short lived and imaginary as it may be.

It ruly wasn't his fault that the Dursley's always locked his books in the cupboard and when he wasn't there during summer break he enjoyed his free time as much as possible. He just wanted to pretend like he was normal. Just Harry. Experiencing things he should have as a child. Also, he wasn't as ambitious as he used to be.

Certain teachers badmouthed or tried to kill him and that put a damper on his enthusiasm, then his Uncle beat him when he was younger if he was in any way better than Dudley. Harry sometimes mourned the before. Before he brought the first and second report card to the house. Not home- never home. He was smart, the teachers had liked him. He was appreciated. Of course he wouldn't be allowed even that. In second grade he had learned from his mistakes and realized that it would bring less pain if he pretended to be dumb. So he stopped putting any effort in his school work.

He wasn't too abysmal, because that would put his relatives into a bad light and that meant pain. So, he tried to be about average. At some point, he adopted that mindset and when he arrived at Hogwarts, he quickly fell back into it. Be average, but not too bad and not too good. He now put only some effort into it- it might also have something to do with his thought that he might not even graduate, so why bother? Without 'Mione, he would barely do anything.

Speaking of which, the witch was now sparkling with energy and Hatry almost felt bad for Danny, almost.

"You. Read. 'Ancient Rites And Customs' by Sol LeMinor?", Hermione was almost breathless and Danny rubbed his neck, suddenly very nervous "Yeah? It was in the Black Library..." suddenly his hands were held hostage by Hermione's, she looked pleadingly at him "Please tell me you like reading. Please."

Blinking, the halfa turned to look at his brother, raising an eyebrow, Harry just shrugged and motioned for him to answer, he did. Wearily.

"I, I guess? I really just want to know about wixen society as much as possible, I really don't want anyone to be able to make fun of me. Or me making dumb mistakes."

Hermione beamed at him "Oh, how wonderful! We'll be able to make Ron and Harry to actually put effort into their school work, I just know it!"
Ron huffed indignantly "Please, Danny, you might be able to stop her. She is totally work crazy! We do finish our work but Hermione just does so much more. It would be impressive if she wouldn't expect the some from us."

The brilliant witch rolled her eyes but didn't correct him.

Danny shook himself out of his stupor and looked at Hermione with a serious expression "I used to be a straight grade A student but after my accident I kind of lost touch with... school. So I'm not brilliant and it's only thanks to my fotographic memory that I even bother to read, sorry to disappoint you. Though, if you have any good recommendations I wouldn't mind reading them, especially since wixens don't have game consoles. A pity, really."

Hermione huffed but didn't seem to be too put out, instead she focused on the 'accident' part, ignoring Ginny's and Ron's confused questions about what gaming consoles are "What kind of accident are you talking about?" Danny paled a little before answering "Didn't I mention it? My parents are scientists and one of their experiments turned on while I was close to it- it, it electrocuted me and I was out for a bit. I guess near death experiences change people."

He glanced over at Harry with humor in his eyes, it made the Boy Who Lived unspeakably happy to know that he was the only one here privy to Danny's secret.

The others looked a little bit concerned but Danny waved it off "I'm good now. No real repercussions. Though it was a shocking experience." He smiled at his own pun, Harry groaned. Who does that?

Ginny still looked unsure "Are you certain?", the boy in question nodded "Yeah, though I still feel like a corpse sometimes. I'm also unnaturally cold, an aftereffect of the accident."

Harry and Danny smiled at each other and Danny sent his brother a feeling of utter amusement, Harry returned it.

Sirius cleared his throat "Well, I'm not sure I'd feel safe sending Harry someplace where children are electrocuted." (He had never felt so glad that Moony explained muggle electricity to him one afternoon after... an intense moment).

The twins' eyebrows rose simultaneously as they stared at Sirius, Harry began "If we go with that logic Hogwarts isn't safe either-" "And the Dursley's place also", Danny finished. Without really looking they fist bumped before they focused back on their uncle/godfather. The man coughed a little before rolling his eyes "Do I even want to know?"

Harry said "No" just as Danny grumbled "You should." Foortunatley, no one but Harry heard.

Sirius suddenly looked thoughtful "I know your home is in Amity Park right now, cub, but you might have to move here indefinitely after graduating..."

Danny tore his eyes open "What?! Why?"

His uncle held up his hands, calming his nephew down "Because, since you're alive, you are Heir Potter. You'll inherit the Potter lord title when you reach majority. Most of the Potters properties are in Europe, I suppose you could manage them from America but it would be a hassle."

The halfa blinked "I'm an heir? I thought only the Sacred Twenty-Eight get titles. And what about Harry?" Sirius smiled at Harry and looked a little uncertain "Well, technically he isn't an Heir, since the title always goes to the oldest child but since I'm your godfather and I made a bloodbinding with you, you are the heir to the House of Black. As much as I dislike it, I am the current lord of the Black family... so yeah. It's up to you if you'll accept. We can talk about it later on. For tonight you should go to bed early. Tomorrow will be a long day.

"And to answer your other question Danny, the Potters may not be among them and thus aren't a 'noble and ancient House' but instead are a 'Noble House' which warrants titles and all that stuff."

Ron nodded along and looked apologetically at Harry "Sorry mate, I only just realized that you probably didn't even know... but being the future lord Black, that's awesome. Just don't go dark on me 'kay? My parents would probably disown me if I continued to be friends with you." The boy in question looked his red headed friend up and down in amusement "You would still be friends with me? Even if I wanted to be the next Dark Lord?" Ron nodded "Of course. What happened last year, with me being such an awful friend, was kind of an eye opener, I guess. I'd follow you anywhere. You can trust me." Hermione looked a bit aghast but also agreed with Ron.

Sirius pretended not to hear the children talk about what if scenarios and instead stood up "I should probably join the Order in the kitchen. You all ate which means Molly will off my back," he stared at his godson "I meant it earlier Harry, go to bed and try to sleep. Arthur will take you to the Ministry tomorrow, so be ready at six at the latest. Good night, children."

He left the Dining room, in which they've eaten today because of the urgent Order meeting that suddenly came up. Sirius had remained with them because he was concerned for Harry and his nerves (also to maybe ensure that they wouldn't eavesdrop). The children looked at each other and shrugged. Fred and Goerge already disappeared into their room a while ago and Ginny nudged Hermione so that they could chat a little longer in their own room. So they wished the remaining boys a good night, though Hermione looked sternly at Harry, to get the message across that he would sleep and rest, before she, too, left.

Ron bemoaned his still unfinished chess game (he was just about to win- against himself) he had started before dinner but probably realized that tomorrow was actually going to be important and Harry would need to be rested for it. So, he instead left to use the bathroom first, leaving the twins on their own.

Alone in the room, the brothers listened to the crackling fire that was slowly dieing in the stove, just enjoying each other's company. Harry cracked an eye open to look at Danny's rested and calm looking face "Will you disappear tonight again?", he inquired quietly, so he wouldn't startle his sensitive brother.

Danny raised an eyebrow and opened his eyes to focus on Harry, he looked at him with a sheepish smile "You noticed? I even left a clone of mine... since when did you know?"

Harry snorted lightly, at least Danny didn't deny it "Since night two. I'm a very, very light sleeper- unless I'm dreaming, then it's almost impossible to wake me up." He didn't mention that he was always locked in his nightmares and could only awake when either he was killed or Cedrik, when it was the graveyard one.

Harry tried not to think about it too much and glanced at the fire, lost in thought "I woke up and saw you transform and then flying out. Is there somewhere you have to be every night?"

Danny was silent for a bit, probably thinking about how to answer "Remember when we first met? I told you how I was actually outside looking for ghosts that need my help. That's what I'm still doing. I don't need much sleep, so I spent the nights just going outside. Help, if someone needs me and just fly to my heart's content. I would have gone stirr-crazy already otherwise. On that note I'm honestly concerned for Sirius, he doesn't have that privilege. Only I do. Also, I've never been outside of the US, at least not in this time and age, so I just wanted to get to know the country you grew up in better."

The young wizard did remember their conversation and showed his understanding. Almost shy he asked "Would you take me with you? Tomorrow night maybe? If everything goes well tomorrow, that is?" Danny nodded enthusiastically "Of course! Besides, everything will go well, I promise. You'll have me with you and I'll watch your back. Also, like I said, Dumbledore will show up- I'm half convinced he'll do so to look like your knight in horrible-clothing-sense armor."

The two fell silent again, contemplating what Danny just said. It was true, Dumbledore was manipulative. He was also someone Harry wanted to trust but just couldn't anymore. He realized a while ago that the 'greater good' was more important for Albus Dumbledore than a sole person. So of course he would use everyone like pawns, as long as the end result suited his tastes. Harry tried to accept it, he truly did, he just didn't know how to. In the end, he always ended up being used.

"We'll have to find a solution that allows us to carve our own way- make our own decisions", Danny locked eyes with his twin, a seriousness there that made Harry shudder "I'm sure that the headmaster has already found some way to include me in his plans as well. I hate being used. So, are you with me?"

The bespectacled boy didn't know what surprised him more: that he and Danny apparently had the same thought process, or that Danny already saw through Dumbledore's schemes and wanted his brother out of it. If that was even possible. Harry still hated Voldemort with passion.

He didn't even have to think about the offer, he smiled and took his brother's outstretched hand "Yes, I'm with you. Thank you, Danny. We've only known each other for barely a week and already you support and help me more than anyone ever has. I just hope I'll never betray your trust." He felt his brother's love and affection resonate through his own core and he knew that Danny was moved by his words. He meant all of it. Everyone has let him down over and over again, then Danny showed up and stayed. He told him everything he wanted to know. He told him things no one else would because he was "still a child".

He loved his friends, he truly did. He would die for them. Yet, he felt different with Danny. He didn't mind that his brother knew about his living situation. He didn't mind that Danny and his adopted family have already taken him in. Kind of. Even though he hasn't even met them yet. The Weasleys were awesome and the closest he got to a family, aside from Sirius and now Danny, but he still felt awkward about being with them. Them seeing him as a part of their own family. He's known them for a long time and still it just felt like he was intruding.

Danny showed him that one has to make the best of their situation. He was half dead for Merlin's sake, yet he didn't despair but fought. Harry could admire that. He was also pretty sure that both of them had a 'hero complex', as Hermione so often told him. Harry didn't even want to be one.

The BWL noticed Danny's gaze on him and smiled assuringly at his twin, squeezing his cold hand.

Danny smiled back and stood up, stretching and then moving towards the door, Harry following suit. In hushed whispers they continued to talk about unimportant things while they got ready for the night.

As they lay down on their beds, Harry felt comfortable and didn't even spent a second thought on his Hearing the next day. Ignoring his best friend's snores and stroking his owl's head calmingly, he fell asleep, for once not dreaming about anything.

.................

When Danny stood up the day of his brother's trial- and wasn't that still an irritating thought? Forcing a child to defend himself against adults who hated his guts, even though he didn't do anything illegal at all? Fate really liked toying with Harry, huh.

He shook his head and sighed, his patrols the past few nights didn't bear any fruit, though he became good friends with a spirit- a wixen ghost. He lived (or rather spend his time) in the Tower of London and died there about 200 years ago. Funnily enough, the ghost was a jokester and loved telling Danny all about his pranks he's come up with ever since he died.

The halfa grinned a little, creating plans on how to best use those ideas at some point later on. Phantom would definitely haunt Hogwarts. Beware.

Danny sniggered as he got ready for the day. Since he would follow his brother, he had to make sure that there was one clone who would walk around in case someone needed him... or the Hearing took longer than assumed. If they were back before lunch, everyone would expect him to study his school books and he didn't need a clone, if it took longer, then a doppelganger would have to go to practical classes in his stead and that would use up a lot of energy.

He stared down at his ring and smirked. It wouldn't be a problem at all. It just meant that today he would only create three doppelganger. Wouldn't be too just of a problem, he hoped.

After finishing he went downstairs, where Harry was already seated and chatted animatedly with Sirius. Danny frowned a little, Sirius barely slept. Everytime he went out at night, he could hear his Uncle rummaging through the kitchen or the library. Something had to be done- and soon, else Sirius could do something incredibly stupid, reckless as he already was.

Harry's face lit up when he noticed him and Danny felt his own smile stretch across his own as he waved them a good morning. He's known about his brother for a little over three weeks and was already used to it. Even though most would probably claim their situation unusual (him being half ghost and ignorant towards his heritage and Harry being famous against his will with a destiny that everyone else wouldn't be able to handle).

As he sat down at the table, eating some pineapple, he listened to Harry's and Sirius' conversation, while ignoring Molly working in the kitchen behind him. He saw his brother trying to swallow a sandwich- definitely thanks to Mrs Weasley- and prayed to the Ancients that today would go over smoothly and without unforseen problems.

Who was he kidding? Something was going to happen.

"-Anyways, try not to aggravate them. You only defended yourself, there is literally nothing that would warrant you getting expelled. Stay calm at all times and trust that you are not alone." Sirius said and Harry glanced over at Danny for a second, making the halfa feel weirdly proud of himself. As if he'd leave his little brother alone to fend for himself, good joke.

His brother nodded and they fell back into relatively comfortable silence. Danny was glad to notice that Harry was wearing some of his own 'better clothes'. He hated that his brother didn't have clothing befitting for a human being. The young ghost already swore that he would find out what exactly the Dursley's did to his twin and then they would pay. He was sure that they hated magic and thus Harry with a passion but he would show them why they should fear the dead even more.

At exactly 6:05, Arthur Weasley arrived and reassured Harry as well. His brother waved nervously to Sirius and tried not to suffocate during Mrs Weasley's hug, then, with one last glance at Danny, he followed Arthur.

Danny waited for a second before jumping up, mumbling something about the bathroom and then entered the library, where he created three doppelganger. He looked at the middle one "Make sure that the others go invisible if someone shows up. Also, better go back and talk with Sirius. Maybe there is something we can help him with." The other Danny rolled his eyes "Dude, we know. Just go, we'll handle everything."

The original Danny grinned sheepishly before he transformed and flew out, but not before seeing on of his clones returning to the kitchen. Satisfied that that was taken care of, he followed his brother's magical energy.

A nifty little thing he realized he could do thanks to his sensitive nose. It was almost like a dog. He could differentiate between people's magical cores... it also helped that he could follow their connection anytime, unless they were too far apart, so he found the two within a few seconds.

He sent a bout of happiness through the connection, as well as something akin to a question mark, wanting to know if Harry was alright.

Since he was floating invisibly behind them, he couldn't see Harry's face but his brother responded with an affirmative emotion. Danny shortly pondered if there was a word for 'affirmative or questioning emotions'. Positive vibes? Oh, whatever. He was getting off track.

After a twenty minute walk, as well as an adventurous trip with the subway/tube/whatever, they arrived at a telephone booth. Standing intangible next to Harry, he watched the proceedings of getting to the Ministry the "muggleborn" way.

He was almost disappointed. A telephone booth? Sure, why not...

The halfa watched with great interest as they arrived and took note of all the wizards and witches, just living their lives and doing their jobs. When they entered the elevator and he saw Shacklebolt, another member of the Order enter, he knew something was up. Arthur's face went pale as Kingsley told him about the change of time and place and the red head looked pityingly at Harry for a short moment. The boy was unaware of it as he watched the memos flying around.

Danny squeezed his shoulder and watched amused as his twin jumped a little at the unexpected contact, before his face smoothed back into a neutral facade. Still, he felt an annoyed but also amused tingle in his core and he wiggled his eyebrows in answer. Unfortunately, Harry didn't see it.

After the elevator trip everything else happened quite fast and he entered a huge room after Harry, making sure to let his twin know that he was close by.

The room was filled with people wearing robes. This was a trial alright. Just not the one any of them expected. Danny looked upwards and almost sneered at the greedy and smug looking people that sat in the first row. They were all obviously high ranking members in the Ministry and were excited to trial a teenager. Absolute hypocrites.

Scoffing at a woman in obnoxiously pink robes, he sat floating next to Harry, who was now seated in an uncomfortable looking chair. He didn't need their connection to know how nervous his twin was. He sent some calm to him and mheard Harry taking a deep breath before the Boy Who Lived focused on the man in the center, sitting on a throne like chair.

That would be the Minister. What a dick. Why was he at a Hearing for a child? He knew why, of course: they wanted Harry, who was a celebrity with more influence than he even knew, out of the way. 'Cause they couldn't admit that Voldy was back. Such idiots. The lot of them.

Fudge called for silence and the trial began.

Danny listened to their accusations and tried to stay calm enough to ground Harry, who was becoming increasingly angry. The anger he sometimes felt from his twin was overpowering and all-consuming if no one stopped it.

The delegates didn't even let Harry defend himself, cutting him off when he tried to explain his actions. When Harry mentioned the dementors, Danny could almost feel the pink woman's eagerness. He already disliked her. She introduced herself as Dolores Umbridge "How could dementors, who are under strict supervision by us, the Ministry, possibly show up in a muggle area? Are you accusing us of sending them, Mr Potter?", her voice was sickeningly sweet and fake but Danny was almost sure now that it was her who endangered his brother's life. This was all a setup and his eyes glowed greener in his anger. He was still intangible, so fortunately no one took notice.

Harry wasn't faring any better but unlike with him, dozens of members were able to see his fury flashing in his eyes. The pink toad continued "Now, we already know that you enjoy pushing order into chaos but there is truly no need to lie as well. Didn't you already accomplish what you wanted when you claimed that He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named returned? Are you trying to somehow disrupt the hard earned peace in our orderly society?"

Harry spat back angrily "'Orderly society'? What bullshit. Besides, I wasn't and still am not lying about Voldemort's return," there was a collective gasp but Harry ignored it "Why the fuck would I even lie about that? Also, it's not my fault when you can't control your wretched dementors. My cousin and I almost died, if I hadn't used the patronus we would have. And may I just say thet at least Voldemort would have been pleased by that? Or maybe not, he wants to kill me himself after all..."

"That's enough!" Interrupted a purple faced Minister "You are still holding onto those lies. There is no proof that He is back-" Harry grumbled something about Cedric but it was too quiet for anyone but Danny to hear "and if you can't give evidence that there were dementors, then we will take your wand and you can live with your guardians. Maybe a little time away from your obviously misplaced fame would do you good."

Harry paled but still didn't back off "I. Am. Not. Lying! And there is proof! My neighbor is a squib and she saw what happened."

Murmurs broke out among the crowd and Amelia Bones spoke up. She was obviously on Harry's side and Danny was glad for it "Then I say we send for her. After all, Mr Potter should be allowed to proof his innocence." She sent a pointed look at the Minister and Umbridge, who looked like they have tried to eat a lemon.

In that very moment, Albus Dumbledire- Danny still enjoyed making fun of the name- waved inside, his robe flowing behind him and the man half glared half twinkled up at the Minister "Good morning to you all." He said calmly before bowing slightly.

Fudge turned up his nose "Dumbledore... we are in the middle of a trial. If you would be so kind as to wait outside and leave?"
Dumblore just smiled and shook his head, as if Fudge had said something utterly stupid "While that might be true, I don't believe that the Ministry has sunken so low as to forbid an accused teenager on trial a defender. I, Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, am here for that role."

Danny could see that it took the Minister a lot of effort to not facepalm and sigh in exasperation. It was quite amusing to see Bumblebee disrupt other people's plans, as long as it didn't affect oneself, that is.

Minister Fudge conceded eventually and Dumbledoor was obviously surprised that they already decided on calling in a witness but he didn't show it. What an actor. Until the cat lady arrived, Madame Bones decided to call a thirty minute recess. Harry had to stay in the room though, while the headmaster mingled with other people. Probably calling in favours and stuff.

Danny was still floating next to his twin, humming to himself, so that only Harry could hear. His brother was quiet but eventually spoke up "What even is going on? No matter what I do, it just seems to get worse and worse. The fucking Minister is trying to frame me, the pink lady obviously hates me, Dumbledore ignores me and when he doesn't do that he manipulates me... everyone believes I'm totally nuts, my friends can't support me because we are still considered children and a megalomaniac is trying to kill me. Did I forget something?"

Danny shrugged but still answered "The fact that you always almost die? Might just be me being biased but you have tough luck. So do I, by the way. Maybe it's a sibling thing..." Harry huffed but his distress eased somewhat and Danny leaned onto him, making himself tangible. It was honestly weird to suddenly have a body again- even if it was an invisible one- after such a long time. Usually he was intangible for only a few seconds when he dodged attacks. He was glad that he was here today, his brother had so much on his plate.

Harry leaned back, trying not to alert bystanders to his movements. Danny rubbed his brother's back assuringly and his twin continued talking about his worries. Danny was glad that Harry trusted him so much "What if they somehow manage to still 'prove' me guilty? I bet that Fudge and this Umbitch are currently trying to come up with ways that would invalidate an eyewitness." He took a deep breath "They want to send me back to the Dursleys, Danny! What can I do?"

The halfa halted for a second "Well, if worst comes to worst, I'll just show up as evidence. I'll make known that Phantom is in Britain to help ghosts in need and by doing so saw what transpired. It would be a hassle to answer all the questions they would definitely ask- and Dumbleton might get interested in my ghost persona- but at least they couldn't thwart that. I promised you'd be fine and you will be."

Harry smiled thankfully at Danny "Thank you, but I don't want you to do that. I think before we make your ghost half known, we should make the human half known first. At least that way I might be send to the Fentons instead," feeling that Danny was about to interrupt he quickly added "Though I'm sure all will be fine, like you said."

The halfa nodded and squeezed his brother's shoulder again. Suddenly, his ghost breath acted up and a shiver ran up his spine. What in Clockwork's name? Somewhere around here was a ghost! One of the no-maj ones. He looked around and saw that the witness was led in and slowly everybody trudged back to their seats. He looked at Harry and whispered into his ear "There is a ghost of my kind somewhere around here, I need to see if they are in danger or are a danger to others! I'm so sorry, I'll be back as soon as possible. If something urgent comes up, just concentrate on sending me your distress, okay?"

His twin just blinked and nodded, though he looked a little hurt. Danny didn't have time to feel concerned and sped out in the direction from where he could feel the other's ghost core.

..........

It took a while but eventually he found them.

They were floating in a dark hallway with no obvious side entrances.

The ghost had blueish skin and flowing silver hair, that encompassed their whole body. The body itself was human typical: arms with five fingers, though the nails were rather long, two legs and a torso. The ghost wore a dress made of something that looked like spider webs. Their eyes were glowing red.

Danny took a deep- unnecessary- breath. There was another controlled ghost and he somehow had to find who had bound them.

There was no human in sight, so he floated forwards and turned visible. His flowing white hair obscuring his view for a second and when he could finally take a good look, the ghost's face was only a few centimeters away from his. He jumped back in surprise and the other ghost gave a lipless smile.

Danny swallowed, automatically careful with this new threat. The ghost could just have red eyes, who would know? So, he decided to just ask "Hello, I'm Phantom, can you tell me who you are?"

The ghost laughed airlessly and answered "I am Silvas. What are you doing here, young one?" His voice was like silk, so smooth and nice to listen to, yet it also had a roughness to it, as though Silvas barely spoke.

The halfa licked his lips nervously "I'm here for you. Are you okay? Are you... free?" The ghost blinked slowly and thought about his question before he looked towards a door he floated in front of and that Danny hasn't noticed before "I am okay, though I am not free. About three years ago or so, I was bound to a magical human by accident. She didn't release me and now my body follows every one of her orders."

Phantom nodded along, this sounded similar to Val.

He looked at Silvas who hasn't moved much yet "I can help you, I'm sure! Will you let me?" The ghost inclined his head in acceptance and Danny started flying towards the door, though he turned back sheepishly "Is the one who bound you in there? And why are you here?"

The silver haired ghost shrugged "She is. She also ordered me to wait here and inform her if a "witch or wizard" comes close. You are neither right now, so I do not have to follow her order. It is always fun to see if there are any loopholes in her orders."

Phantom huffed a laugh and went through the door. Distantly his magical core could feel the additional warding put up around the entrance but he was in ghost form and wards didn't mean anything.

The room he entered was small but with high walls that were filled to the ceiling with books. In the centre of the room stood a podium with a golden glowing book on it. A relatively young woman with blond hair stood in front of it, looking annoyed. Danny could see that the book was secured with heavy wards and the witch was obviously trying to have it, just as he thought that she started to speak to herself "Bloody wards, I timed today perfectly and now I can't even have the stupid book! Argh, what to do, what to do?" Her eyes flickered nervously from left to right and Phantom just shook his head.

"You do know that ghosts can break almost any wards? Especially small ones like that?" The woman jumped and flew around, her eyes wide as she took in the ghost in front of her, who stood floating with his arms crossed.

She took control of her facial expression and managed to answer "Why would I need a ghost to help me? Your kind is good as servants and bodyguards, maybe also nice gifts, but you are muggle ghosts. Your kind doesn't deserve to even touch a magical artifact such as this." She pointedly looked at the book and stared back at Danny who just raises an eyebrow

"Wow, you really are obnoxious. My 'kind' shouldn't even be bound to anyone. You could be out if here already if you could've swallowed your pride. Besides, Silvas is a never-born, which means he has never been alive and thus has never been a 'muggle' as you so eloquently said." The woman paled a little and her mouth dropped in wonder. The halfa could see that she was making plans on how to find new uses for Silvas, Phantom wouldn't have any of it "It's too late, witch. As a 'muggle' ghost I have every right to challenge you to a 'Contract Match'.

"If you decline, your hold over Silvas will automatically break, if you accept and win, I'll be yours as well. If you lose, Silvas is free. Will you accept? After all, I'm just a muggle ghost, I shouldn't be a problem for a witch like you, right?"

The woman sneered at him "Damn right you are! I accept and after I win you'll spend the next fifty years as a cooking aide!" Danny almost started laughing right then. Him? A kitchen aide? That was hilarious, he'd accidentally poisen her food!

He scratched his throat consideringly as he watched the witch chanting a complicated looking spell with her wand. Fortunately, he understood Latin and learned that she was creating a pentagon trap that would definitely hold a ghost. So maybe she wasn't all that dumb but still dumb enough for Danny.

While she chanted, he flew closer until he floated in front of her and snatched her wand away. She had her eyes closed in concentration and didn't even notice! When her wand was ripped our of her hand she stopped, startled. Danny watched in fascination as the wand automatically froze over. So it was a ghost thing?

He ignored the witch's stuttering and froze her up to her hips, twirling her frozen wand he focused on her "Admit defeat. You lost, or ill break it." She started sobbing at that "No, please! I lost! There, I said it! Now give me back my wand!" He did, after he felt the binding between her and Silvas break. She tried to remove the ice but since it contained ectoplasm it didn't work.

Silvas flew inside, his eyes were pure white, his lenses were a light silver that was glowing dangerously. He stopped next to Phantom, his long hair flying wildly around him "Thank you, Phantom. It is embarrassing that such an ignorant human was able to bind me. She is a thief you see. People call her and tell her what they want and she gets it for them. This tome is called 'Spring of Life' and very valuable.

"I deserve to avenge my enslavement, do you not agree?" The halfa swallowed. He was on Silvas side but he couldn't let him kill someone! His worry must have shown because the other ghost calmed down a little "Her life shall not be endangered, no, she shall learn what it is like to be a slave. My coven in the Realm is certainly looking for me and worrying. I will head back with this witch and she will serve us for three years."

The woman in question looked sick but couldn't do anything. Silvas smiled in a malevolent way and reached forward with his long nails. One of his hairs flew towards him and he took it, ripped it out and before Phantom could stop him he had sewn her mouth shut. No words formed and tears rolled down her face. Phantom wanted to cry, too, aven though he knew that she was a bad person. Yet, he didn't know her story. Why was she a thief? Why did she keep Silvas? Also, who would want that book? What had she been so unprepared? Why in the Ancients name did people think they were better than ghosts?

...he was getting off topic. He turned to Silvas, about to reprimand him when the older ghost spoke up "This way she will not be able to bind another ghost. When I release her in three years, I will heal her lips. This is the payment I deserve, do not stop me."

Phantom sighed and nodded. His primary objective was to free ghosts. It was naive to think that all ghosts he helped would be like Val and just leave without wanting revenge. This woman was not his problem and he melted the ice that captured her. He tried to ignore her pleading eyes and the guilt in his chest, his priority was helping ghosts- not mortals. Unless the ghost in question wanted death as payment, that his obsession wouldn't allow.

He watched as Silvas hair enclosed the witch's body, rendering her immobile. The hair was now floating behind him with a human cocooned inside- like a spiderweb, his mind whispered- and Silvas smiled again "You are always welcome in my coven, young one, you can ensure that I will not harm her any further. Olivia Barmes will now be nameless and thus a new person. Until then." He bowed and vanished, taking a -breathing, living, scared- person with him.

Danny swallowed again and tried to keep his pineapple down. Usually he protects people. Now he had condemned a woman to live in a coven! Covens were ancient lairs, usually inhabited by never-born ghosts. They had their own laws and rules and were often made part of the Ancients. They were also very secluded and powerful! He wondered how Silvas ended up bound to Olivia. He would ask him next time they met. He glanced at the tome once more before he turned towards the door. For now he had a brother to support.

..........

Harry was feeling skirmish. The chair was incredibly uncomfortable and Mrs Figg had been interrogated for almost twenty minutes. Over and over did they ask the same questions, just differently phrased.

The bwl groaned internally. Now Dumbledore was having a shouting match with Fudge minus the whole shouting. Dumbledor was pushing both Fudge and The Toad, as Harry decided to call Umbridge from now on, into a metaphorical corner and everyone knew it.

He just wished Danny were here with him. His twin had just said something about a ghost and promised to be back soon, Harry just didn't realise that 'soon' meant over thirty minutes later.

Dumbledore was initiating a vote to drop all of Harry's charges, when the boy felt his twin appearing next to him. His core tingled with too many emotions but the biggest one was regret.

That got Harry curious and he was sure it had something to do with the ghost. He sent his brother some calm that Harry had managed to accumulate ever since it was clear that Dumbledore played the Minister like a fiddle. Half of those present were sporting amused or bored expressions. Miss Bones was definitely amused.

His shoulder was quickly squeezed in thanks and support and the twins watched as the majority vote for Harry's innocence. The moment the verdict was spoken, the crowd dissipated and Dumbledore left without another word, Harry found that he didn't mind it much.

He was picked up by Arthur who promised to bring him back to Grimmauld Place at lunch and congratulated him for leaving the trial intact. Harry now sat in Arthur's small office, just looking at the many trinkets on his table, while the owner was arguing outside. Suddenly he poked his head in, an apologetic expression on his face "I'm so sorry, Harry. Something came up in a muggle's home and I'm needed, I'll ward the door. If something happens, use the red pencil in front of you, it's a portkey. It'll bring you somewhere safe. Just say 'Duckies' and it'll activate. Please don't leave my office!" With that he left and Dnny and Harry were unexpectedly alone.

Harry's twin became visible floating over the desk. Sitting there in the air with his legs crossed. He was in his Phantom persona and Harry marveled once again about the fact that Danny was also a ghost.

He raised an inquiring eyebrow and Danny cleared his throat "I have something called a 'ghost breath' that tells me when ghosts are nearby. It suddenly activated in the courtroom and I needed to make sure the ghost wasn't a threat or in danger. Believe me, I'm truly sorry that I just left you!"

Harry's gaze softened. Danny has had a valid reason. He was like him in that regard: helping when possible. He could understand his twin's urge to make sure everything was alright, besides, it was his job to safe and help ghosts here, who was he to judge the dead?

"If I can ever help you, please tell me. You shouldn't have to do this alone. All went well during the trial anyways- like you said and the only thing I've taken from this experience is, that politics aren't for me." Danny gave an echoey laugh and said "Thanks for the offer Harry. Let's see what'll happen tonight. You could become an honorary ghost-hunter!"

Harry inclined his head "I would be honoured... what happened with the ghost today?"

Danny became still, making Harry worried. He didn't want to push and sought for another topic when the halfa spoke up "I freed a bound ghost."

"But... that's great! Right?" Danny nodded his head but gnawed at his bottom lip "The ghost I helped wanted compensation for being forced to work for the witch for three years. He decided to take her with him to the GZ- also for three years. He is of the Olde, meaning he's been around for at least 3000 years and belongs to a coven. Members of covens are almost seen as godly in the Ghost Zone, so obviously I couldn't stop him..."

Harry saw where this was headed. He took his brother's hand and made him look at him "If what you said is true, then it's not your fault. It's her own, if anything. She'll have to learn the hard way that actions have consequences. I know it's hard to accept, I'm still struggling with 'survivors guilt' as Hermione calls it. It's outside our influence and we can't change it now."

Harry thought of Cedric, "Kill the spare" and how he just stood by and let it happen. How the Hufflepuff would still be alive if Harry had been a little bit more selfish, 'actions have consequences' indeed.

Danny squeezed his eyes shut and added heatedly "Silvas- the ghost- he, he sew her mouth shut! She can't talk anymore and it's my fault! He said he'll heal her but stuff like this does thinks to people," tears streamed down his face and Harry's heart constricted a little "Silvas doesn't understand because he's never been human and I have- I am. Am I a bad person for letting it happen after all?"

Harry used the hand in his palm to put the weightless body of twin next to him and hugged him tightly. While doing so he answered "No. You are not. I killed someone when I was 11. I burnt him to ashes -he was my DADA professor and had Voldemort on the back of his head.

"He tried to steal the philosopher's stone and I stopped him but accidentally killed him in the process. I could have stopped it but I didn't. No one punished me for killing someone, I was even awarded points! For months I thought the same but came to the conclusion that, no, it doesn't make me a bad person. I didn't enjoy it, I still regret it, even though I would've died if I hadn't done it. We are not bad people, no matter what people say."

They both stood there for a while, Danny sniffling here and there and Harry forcing his own tears away. They were only 15 and have been through so much already.

Finally, Danny held Harry on arms length, looking utterly thankful "I feel like you have a lot of experience here. Thank you and also: what the hell? No one talked to you about it? At least I have Jazz and now you. But who talks you through it?" Harry just shrugged "A lot of people around me like monologing, some things just stay and I make my own picture- then there is 'Mione. She also helps a lot."

"I'm glad." "Me too and now we also have each other, so let's trauma share at some point." Danny laughed in response "Siunds good, just wait until I tell you about my evil self."

"And I about the time I almost drowned in a lake!"

"Ah yeah, I wouldn't have that problem, cause I died a year ago." "Half-died."
"...yeah, half-died."

They smirked at each other and spend the next couple minutes hide-and-seek, where Dannywould turn invisible and Harry had to find him.

When Arthur returned, Harry was relaxed, Danny floating protectively beside him.

They were back punctually for lunch and Harry managed to eat a lot more than usual. Everyone was excited and congratulated him, Hermione yelling every few sentences that she "Knew it! They couldn't have expelled you or taken your wand, Harry!"

The bespectacled boy was quite content and decided to watch Sirius teach Danny for awhile. They didn't have to clean today, hooray!
When Danny and Harry entered, Sirius waved the door closed and stared tiredly at Danny, who looked back, looking a little pale. Finally, Sirius broke the silence

"Danny, cub, please explain to me, why there were three of you earlier in this very room."

Harry bit his lip 'Uh-oh', he thought, glancing at his twin.