The Greatest of These by IHateSnakes

1. Chapter 1 - Strength and Comfort by IHateSnakes [ - ] (5793 words)
I would like to manage some of your expectations about this story. By the rating system which is fairly standard among Harry Potter FanFic sites, this story is rated PG-13 or suitable for mid-teen audiences. There is a major plot line in the story dealing with “alternate lifestyles.”

Diane Bradley, while an immensely powerful witch and loyal friend of Harry’s, is struggling with her own sexual identity. This story will NOT contain slash (descriptive same sex pairing) but it may be alluded to. How I handle Diane’s efforts at self discovery are not necessarily the ‘best’ way, but I believe they reflect the confusion and uncertainty she might feel as a real person.

To my gay/lesbian readers: Please forgive any monstrous gaffes I make, none are intentional. In addition to consulting practicing acquaintances, I have tried to educate myself on this social and personal issue and not offend anyone, (but I’m sure I will at some point.) I ask your patience and forgiveness. As always, constructive criticism is welcome. If you do write me a personal note regarding a mistake, please reference the chapter so I can find it more easily and correct it faster.

Thank you, and as always,

IHateSnakes
2. Chapter 2 - A Parting of Ways by IHateSnakes [ - ] (7773 words)

3. Chapter 3 - Digging for Answers by IHateSnakes [ - ] (6747 words)
Ron, Charlie and Tré run into trouble in Paris. Michael Allen begins to investigate the mysterious Harry Potter. Harry and Hermione prepare to start their seventh and final year at Hogwarts.
4. Chapter 4 - Coalescence by IHateSnakes [ - ] (9078 words)
Harry, Hermione and Diane start their final year. Hermione begins her reconciliation with Molly Weasley. Diane shares knowledge of a gift she inherited. The Ministry of Magic is making slow progress in rebuilding, except for two areas. Ron gets a lesson in French life and language.
5. Chapter 5 - The French Connection by IHateSnakes [ - ] (8805 words)
Rita Skeeter learns of an opportunity. Diane talks to Harry about her identity crisis. The situation in France take a dramatic turn. Arthur Weasley learns of a problem. 'Digger' Allen uncovers some odd discrepancies in his hunt for Harry Potter.
6. Chapter 6 - It Just Doesn't Make Sense! by IHateSnakes [ - ] (8341 words)
The war in France heats up as Ron and Charlie take a more active role in the Liberation. Diane gets some news from the far side of "The Pond." Harry and Hermione have a talk. Arthur and his co-workers at the MoM plot to surprise the Wizengamot. Michael Allen runs into some problems tracking down the elusive Harry Potter.
7. Chapter 7 - Resolution and Recovery by IHateSnakes [ - ] (8565 words)
Warning: This chapter contains some moderately graphic descriptions of medical procedures.
8. Chapter 8 - A Seer and Two Puzzles by IHateSnakes [ - ] (9334 words)
Ron and Nettie spend some time together in Paris and Nettie gets something she asked for many years before. Michael Allen runs into Amanda Bright’s project. Diane and Ginny travel to the States to finalize her family’s estate settlement. While reviewing some old records they find a discrepancy in some of Diane’s papers.
9. Chapter 9 – Rebellion, Relations, Reunions and Recovery by IHateSnakes [ - ] (7687 words)
After two months of squabbling, the Ministry of Magic has completed the revised constitution and is ready to reconvene the Wizengamot to make the changes official. Harry and Hermione share some thoughts about their lives. Ginny and Diane return from their trip to Salem. Michael Allen experiences the consequences of Memory Charms.
10. Chapter 10 - The Sting by IHateSnakes [ - ] (7345 words)
Remus Lupin turns over the Defense post to Jacqueline La Porte and then has a talk with Harry. The gang enjoys a day in Hogsmeade. Michael Allen restarts his investigation and springs a trap. Arthur Weasley is given a new job. Charlie Weasley begins his rehabilitation.
11. Chapter 11 - The Ball by IHateSnakes [ - ] (8008 words)
Arthur Weasley meets with the Muggle Prime Minister. Michael Allen and Billy try to make sense of what has happened to them. The Christmas Holidays approach and the Yule Ball has a few surprises.
12. Chapter 12 - The Admission by IHateSnakes [ - ] (6054 words)
Christmas holidays bring some families together and set others apart. Harry and Diane spend some time exploring their past. Michael Allen and Billy part company for a while. Are Hermione’s feelings for Harry becoming more than just feelings? How will they handle them?
13. Chapter 13 - The Inquiry by IHateSnakes [ - ] (9720 words)
Arthur begins to prepare for the inquiry into the second war against Voldemort. Harry and the gang have a small celebration at Grimmauld Place where Ron talks about some changes in his life. An excerpt from Dolores Umbridge’s trial is reviewed. The inquiry begins…and ends.
14. Chapter 14 - The Search by IHateSnakes [ - ] (8225 words)
Harry and Bill discuss their next steps in the search for a way to save Bill and destroy the last fragment of Voldemort’s soul. Diane writes home. Michael Allen is back on the trail of Harry Potter. Charlie and Tré have a serious discussion. Bill and Harry take a trip.
15. Chapter 14b - The Search (Part II) by IHateSnakes [ - ] (2007 words)
This is the end of the last chapter that would not fit.
16. Chapter 15 - The Runaround by IHateSnakes [ - ] (6940 words)
On the trail of source of the spell to create a Horcrux, Harry and others travel around Europe and North America looking for clues.
17. Chapter 16 - The Lager by IHateSnakes [ - ] (8162 words)
The Minister of Magic makes a decision on his formal relationship with the Muggle world. Michael Allen’s journey takes an unexpected detour. Harry, Diane and Max travel to Poland to investigate the clue Colonel Barr had given them. Ron and Hermione come to an understanding.
18. Chapter 17 - The Sacrifice by IHateSnakes [ - ] (8613 words)
I make a number of references in this chapter to British law. These are based on my understanding of the U.S. judicial system. Sorry.

Thank you for reading, especially those who left reviews. IHateSnakes
19. The Answers by IHateSnakes [ - ] (6553 words)
Story wrap-up. Harry’s Seventh Year ends with some interesting revelations.