Chapter 3: The meeting, newspapers and reactions
Professor McGonagall was sitting in her office she had just left the feast that was hold to welcome their foreign guest. Currently she was thinking about the sudden arrival of the tree time traveling Potters this morning. Just yesterday she saw Harry Potter, a fourteen year old boy and now there is a Harry Potter who is twenty-four, is a father and is married to a Slytherin.
The fact he was married to a Slytherin was probably t one of the most surprising thing about this older Harry Potter. Although she herself didn't believe that the entire Slytherin house was evil, she knew most of her house did.
Another thing that surprised her was the way the two Potters treated the headmaster. She did not know much about the former Ms. Greengrass, but the relationship between Harry had Dumbledore had until know been somewhat of a grandfather and grandson. But know that seemed totally changed it was almost like they thought of him as a enemy, but that couldn't be right? He was Albus Dumbledore, leader of the light.
Suddenly green flames flared up in the fireplace and two Potters walked out, while the third one was carried by her mother. The trip seem to have woken the youngest Potter up because she asked to be let down.
For the first time the professor could see the eyes of the child. Her breath hitched in her throat for a moment looking at the eyes of the child. She had seen those eyes two people before, one was Lilly Evans and the other was Harry Potter.
McGonagall motioned for them to sit. Harry asked if some food could be brought up since they hadn't had any dinner yet. McGonagall complied and ordered a house elf to bring two normal plates of dinner up and one smaller.
The three Potters quickly ate their meal. The meal was mostly spend in silence with only some minor things were asked. McGonagall decided to wait until they were finished for the serious discussion.
When the meal was finished, Daphne requested that Tracey and Hermione could also join this meeting. She explained that they didn't want their best friends to have to wait for the same answers that McGonagall was going to get anyway. She also explained that there were some safety concerns that needed to be addressed.
McGonagall accepted the reasoning, although she was surprised that Harry hadn't asked for Mr. Weasley. Maybe he thought it wouldn't be a good idea to have him in the same room as two Slytherins. She called for the same house elf and told him to take the plates back and get the two requested people.
While waiting for the others Harry asked. ''Before we begin professor, did you manage to arrange for what we requested this morning?''
The deputy nodded and said, '' I have had the house elves prepare the married suite that is located on the fifth floor. The suit has two bedrooms, a bathroom and a common room. It is hidden behind the portrait of Elvina the Gray. The password is ''union'', you can change it on a later date if you so desire. We also took the liberty of moving you trunks from the dormitory to your rooms.''
Harry nodded in thanks and said '' Tammy''
With a plop a house elf, wearing a uniform with the Potter crest on it, appeared before him and bowed to Harry and asked, ''What can Tammy do for you?''
Harry looked at the elf who in the previous timeline had been one of the few house elves that remained at Potter manor when Daphne and Harry found it. A house elf can't live without being bonded to a master. When they are bonded they receive the magic of their bonded, which is the life-force of the elves. When a master died then the bond is automatically transferred to the next of kin of the master. Unfortunately for the Potter elves when the bonds were transferred to Harry he was barely a year old and didn't have enough magical reserves to sustain all the elves, which resulted in many of them dyeing.
'' Tammy do you know who I am?'' Harry asked kindly.
''Tammy knows that you are lord Potter. I can sense the presence of the Potter ring. I also know that that is lady Potter, my mistress.'' She said while pointing at Daphne. '' But Tammy does not know how this can be she couldn't sense either of you before this morning.'' She said while hanging her head slightly down.
''Don't worry about it Tammy,'' Harry said. '' It is a bit complicated to explain right now, but we will explain it when we have the time. For now, you know you way around the castle right?
The elf nodded fervently and said '' Yes master, Tammy knows her way around the castle. She has served the Potter family in this place before.''
Hearing this, professor McGonagall who had been silent during the conversation before had to ask, and asked, '' Who was it that you served in the castle?''
'' Tammy isn't allow to say madam kitty. Former master said that if you found out that Tammy brought master food than he and the dog man would be in serious problem. So master made Tammy promise not to reveal his name and Tammy will never break promise to master.''
Harry smiled at the not too subtle hint of the elf and said,'' Tammy this is my daughter Lucy. She drunk a sleeping potion this morning and is feeling the after-effects of it.. Could you please put her in her in bed. Our room is located on the fifth floor, hidden behind the painting of Elvina the Gray . After that please stay with her until we are back.''
Harry had asked this after he had seen his daughter fall asleep again. Normally she could easily stay the entire day up, but it seemed she suffered from some residual effects of the potions. It was a shame too he was sure Lucy would have loved to see Hermione and Tracey again, but still she needed her sleep and there was always tomorrow.
The elf bowed again. ''Tammy will take care of young mistress, master.'' She then gently took Lucy over from her mother as not to wake her and with a pop she was away.
There was a somewhat awkward silence for a couple of minutes, when there was a knock on the door and Tracey Davis entered.
''You wanted to see me?'' She asked unaware there were others in the room.
''I wanted to talk to you Tracey.'' Daphne said.
Tracey after hearing the voice turned to the two people sitting in front of the desk, the Potters.
Even after having a couple of hours to think about it all, she still found it hard to believe it. Her best friend who until now hadn't even been on a date was a mother and married. And of all the possible males to marry she had married Harry Potter.
She personally had nothing against Potter, at least nothing more than she had against the average Gryffindor, at least he wasn't as bad as Weasley when it come to them thinking that Slytherin were all evil. Still the Greengrass family was famous for being neutrals, for the heiress of the family to marry the one commonly known as golden boy, the epitome of the light side. That could have far reaching consequences for her family and her standing within the house.
''Daphne,'' She greeted her best friend in a neutral tone.
Said woman smiled at her old friend and said, '' I asked you this morning if you were still willing to be friends with me. We understand that associating with us might give you trouble. So if you are willing we can at the very least place you under the protection of house Potter. If you accept that than the Potter crest will appear on you robes showing the world that if they attack you, it will be treated as a attack on the most ancients and noble house of Potter and its allies. No pure or half-blood who are taught the way how the houses works will be stupid enough to attack you.'' She was silent for a moment, but then added. ''Well maybe Malfroy, but he is relatively harmless right now.''
Tracey looked immensely relieved after hearing the offer for protection. She wanted to remain friends with her first true friend, even if she had changed, she still was her friend. She was only afraid what the reaction were going to be in the snake pit. She was about to say that she wanted to continue her friendship when Harry spoke up.
''Professor,'' He addressed McGonagall '' According to the rules members of Most ancients and Noble houses and those under their protection are allowed their own quarters when they feel they are in danger in their dorms, therefore I request that Astoria Greengrass and Tracey Davis get their own quarters.''
''Potter,'' Tracey said angrily and both Harry and Daphne looked at her. Tracey looked a bit taken by that and thought it would take some serious time to get to used to that and continued '' I mean Harry, why did you request a chamber for me? I haven't told you yet of I would continue my friendship with Daphne and by extension accepting the protection of your house. Who do you think you are to decide for me.''
Harry merely chuckled at her and said, '' Tracey I have known you far longer than you realize. When Daphne promised you our protection, I saw it in your expression that the last of your doubts vanished and you were going to accept. ''
Tracey didn't like it that someone she barely knew was able to read her facial expressions so easy and decipher that it means she would accept. On the other hand that he was able to read her meant that they had spend time together and that meant that her future self at least tolerated him and if she could trust her own future self then who could she? She was also grateful for private quarters if only it meant spending less time with her dorm mates. She had only one thing she wanted to know. She looked at Harry and asked '' What would you have done if I decided to terminate my friendship with Daphne?''
Harry smiled at her and replied with. ''Knowing you as I do, I highly doubt you would have refused after we offered the additional protection, but in the unlikely situation you would, we would still have protected you in any way that was legally allowed. Even if you stop considering Daphne as a friend, both of us would still see you as a friend and we wouldn't want anything to happen to you. Besides after all the times your future counterpart saved our hides in our old timeline this is the least we can do.'' The last part Harry might have slightly exaggerated, but it has never hurt anyone to boost someone's ego.
Daphne added to that with, '' Tracey, I will always consider you my best female friend and I hope we can continue our friendship and that you accept that I have two other things in my life that are very important to me. '' After she said that, she stood up from her stool and walked to Tracey and gave her a warm hug.
Tracey returned the hug and said somewhat emotionally, '' Of course I want to continue our friendship. The only reason I didn't say that this morning was because I was scared of the reactions.''
Daphne released Tracey from the hug and said in a teasingly way, ''And here I thought it was because you were shocked in to silence.''
Tracey blushed a bit remembering her actions that morning in the great hall and muttered, ''Very funny Potter. I see you got your sense of humour from your husband''
Harry who had stoop up himself and walked to them during their small talk said, '' I hope you can accept me too Tracey, you became a good friend after Daphne and I started dating. I Hope we can build up a friendship again.'' When finished talking he gave her a brief hug.
Tracey returned the hug although not so enthusiastic as she had done with Daphne. After a moment they broke apart she said, ''I can clearly see that Daphne cares deeply for you. And she is a good judge of character so I think you will make a good friend. Besides if my future me can become your friend then I guess I can tolerate you too.''
''You will tolerate me huh?'' Harry said teasingly, ''Well I guess I will have to tolerate you when you go on and on about how amazing a certain player of Puddlemere United is.''
Tracey blushed slightly when she heard his remark. It was highly annoying that he knew these things about her and she knew nothing that she could use on him. ''Ha-ha very funny Potter.''
Daphne was glad her best friend was getting somewhat along with her husband. She looked at her friend and asked '' I assume You accept the protection of our house?''
After giving it one last moment of thought, she agreed to a decision that very well might change her life completely
Hearing Tracey's positive reply Harry said. ''I lord Harry James Potter, head of the most Ancient and Noble house of Potter, herby place Tracey Davis under the protection of my house. Anny attack on her will be seen as a attack on house Potter. So mote it be.''
After he had finished speaking the Potter crest appeared on Tracey's robe signifying her protected status to anyone who knew the meaning.
McGonagall, who had been silent up to now because she thought they had to solve this on their own, had to agree with the Potters, Ms. Davis would be better off if she had her own room. She would have liked to have been able to say that Hogwarts is completely safe and no one needs additional protection, but she was not that naïve. She know that with the protection of a most ancient and noble house she would be physically safe but emotionally they could still abuse her, especially in the Slytherin common room. Separating her from the rest of her house would not completely stop this, but it would at least diminish it greatly. She called a elf and had him prepare a room for both Ms. Davis and Ms. Greengrass, who she had heard would arrive tomorrow from her sister during their meal.
But now that the matters with Ms. Davis ware finished she wanted to get on to where she requested them originally for. The professor conjured another chair in front of her desk and asked for the three to take a seat.
Just when she was ready to start he questioning, there was another knock on the door and Hermione Granger entered. The reason she was considerably later that Tracey was because they were both in their house common room when they were summoned. While Tracey only had to go from the dungeons to the first floor where McGonagall's office was located. Hermione had to go all the way from the seventh down to the first, that and she also spend some time trying to convince the elf who gave her the message that she deserved vacation and pay. Unfortunately even some friendly as a house elf can lose it patience and the elf had popped away in the middle of her rant, leaving her in a rather foul mood.
''You summoned for me, professor.'' She said in a neutral tone. She had great for the professors, but for someone like her to use a house elf like that didn't sit well with her.
She then noticed who else were in the room. Sitting in the chairs in front of McGonagall's were the two people the entire school has been talking about the entire day even the arrival of the foreign schools didn't curb the amount of talks that was about them. The last person sitting in front of McGonagall was a Slytherin by the look of her uniform, Tracey Davis if she remembered correctly.
''Hey Hermione,'' Harry greeted her. ''Professor McGonagall had some questions for us and we thought our two best friends had to right to be here and ask some questions themselves.''
''You are going to answer my questions?'' She asked with a slightly familiar look on her face that Harry couldn't immediately place.''
''Uh yes?'' He answered hesitantly.
Too late he recognised the look for the look she got when she received a new book , only highly intensified.
Hearing the affirmative answer she started firing questions at a rate that it was impossible to answer any of her questions. ''Did you really come from the future? Why did you come back? How did you come back? When did you and Daphne started dating? When did you two get married? Was that little girl you were holding this morning really your daughter? How old is she? Where is she anyway? What did you mean when you said she would like to meet her godmother? Where are your glasses? Why did you refer to Ron as Weasley? Did something happen between the two of you? Did either of us made prefect next year? What about the head positions in our seventh year? Did we succeed with S.P.E.W.? Are they treated equally now?'' The need to breath seemed to finnaly catch up to her and she stopped her questioning to take several deep breaths.
All the people in the office sans Hermione were starring at her in shock when she finished with her question marathon.
''I am not sure I am supposed to impressed she could do that in one go or disturbed.'' Tracey muttered, Daphne next to her nodded in agreement and even Harry had to agree that this was a bit much even for someone who knew her since he was eleven.
McGonagall seeing that her favorite student had regained her breath and seemed to be ready to continue her questioning quickly interfered. ''Welcome Ms. Granger, while I am sure you are curious and have many questions it may be a good idea to give them some time to answer.'' She conjured another seat next to Harry and asked Hermione to take her seat, who quickly did it after she realized what she had been doing.
After they all sat down McGonagall said, 'Now that everyone requested is here, are you two willing to answer some questions?''
Daphne replied,'' You can ask any question you want professor, that doesn't mean we will answer all your questions . As we told the headmaster some information is only on a need to know basis. There also trust and security issues to consider.'''
''What do you mean?'' Hermione asked after Daphne last words.
Daphne looked at Hermione and responded. ''Wile I trust both you and Tracey completely, there is a branch of magic out there called Legilimency. The closest thing I can describe it as without going in detail is mindreading. And until you learn defense against it, you two are completely open. That is what I meant with security issue?''
Hermione nodded in acceptance, vowing to herself to look for information on Legilimency in the library the first chance she got.
McGonagall not missing under which category that automatically placed her felt the need to defend herself. ''I assure Mrs. Potter that you can trust me completely.''
Harry snorted at hearing that. ''You ask us to trust someone completely who allowed a one year old baby to be placed in a abusive muggle household.''
McGonagall didn't know how to respond to that, she had long since suspected that Harry's home life was less than pleasant, but she had never expected him to admit it like that.
''My apologies, Mr. Potter. I wasn't aware of your situation. The headmaster assured me that you were save with your family.'' McGonagall said eventually.
Harry shrugged. ''A apology is unnecessary professor. You have made your choices and now you have to live with the consequences of those choices. Now I believe we were here to answer some questions.''
The deputy nodded, she was sad the son of two of her favourite students didn't trust her, but she still had some questions she wanted answered. She thought for a minute and asked her first question, ''How did you come back from the future?''
''I am sorry professor, '' Harry said, ''But that knowledge dies with us. It is too dangerous to spread this kind of information around. Do you have any other question?''
McGonagall frowned at hearing she wouldn't get the information, but she realized they were probably right and that you shouldn't mess with time too much.
Seeing the professor silent, Hermione decided to ask the one question which she had been wondering the entire day about. And if she was honest with herself she should have asked this question first. She looked at one of her first true friends and asked in a sincere tone, ''Are you happy, Harry?''
Harry gave the witch next to him a genuine smile and answered. ''Yes Hermione, I admit the last couple of yours I experienced were less then great, but even then I was happy because my beautiful wife and daughter were there.''
Tracey decided that it was her turn to ask a question. ''So, how did you two name you daughter? If I remember correctly Pott .. I mean Harry called her Lucy. Is that short for something or is that her full name?''
Daphne smiled at the mention of her daughter and answered with, ''Lucy is short for Lucilla, her full name is Lucilla Astoria Potter. Her name is in Latin it means..''
''Light.'' Hermione supplied in reflex.
Daphne looked amused at the brunette Gryffindor. ''Right, as I was saying, Her name is in Latin it means as Hermione pointed out light. When she was born thing weren't all too great at the time. She was our light in the darkness.''
''So what was that about her seeing her godmother?'' Hermione asked.
Harry chuckled at hearing the question, he was sure other then Daphne no one would expect his answer. ''Hermione, Tracey congratulations you have a goddaughter.''
''What!'' shrieked both Tracey and Hermione in near sync.
Daphne swatted her husband arm. ''You could have told them that with a bit mort tact you know.'' She then assured the two somewhat distressed witches. ''Don't worry too much about it. The position of godmother was something your future self accepted. We don't expect you two to do the thing godparents usually do especially at your age. Although I am sure Lucy will recognize you two and would like to spend time with you two. And if you are wondering why both of you are godmother, that is because there wasn't a suitable godfather, so instead Lucy has two godmothers.''
Tracey and Hermione could only dumbly nod. Both somewhat unsure what to make of the fact they at age fourteen and fifteen were godparents of a child.
McGonagall asked her next question. What are you planning two academically? Are you going to do the entire seven year or are you going to test out early?''
''We are going to take our N.E.W.T. and O.W.L. at the end of the year. '' Harry said.
Hermione hearing the topic interjected. ''You can take them early?''
McGonagall nodded. '' O.W.L.'s and N.E.W.T.'s can be taken whenever you want, but you only can take it once. They are also only offered at the end of the year because all the exams have to be taken at the same time. Because all the theory exams are the same and they don't want you to pass information on.''
Harry continued as if he wasn't interrupted by a curious Hermione. ''As I was saying we will take our O.W.L.'s and N.E.W.T.' at the end of the year. Until then we will attend the fourth year classes to appease the school-contract we will be attending the fourth year classes. However I absolutely refuse to ever attend a class of divination again. I will drop that class and instead I will take ancient runes.''
''That can be arranger, Mr. Potter.'' The professor said. ''However ancient runes isn't a easy subject and you already missed a year. Are you sure you can attend fourth year classes?''
''No disrespect professor, but I am not some ordinary fourth year. I may not have taken this subject during school, but over the years I have read more than enough information about it that I shouldn't have any problems with mere fourth year classes, I probably wouldn't even have any problems with seventh year classes.''
''That is fine then.'' The professor agreed. ''Were there any other school related issues?''
''Yes there is one more.'' Daphne responded. ''According to the school rules as a married couple we have the right to attend classes together. Therefore I will be joining the Gryffindors in their classes.''
''You are indeed correct Mrs Potter. It is within your rights to ask for that and I will arrange it for you. Was there anything else?''
Both Potters gave the deputy and negative reply resulting in McGonagall saying. ''I will work on the schedule for both of you. They should be ready before lunch, please pick them up than. I will give you the morning off.'' She then addressed the two youngest in the room. ''Misses Granger and Davis, I am sure there are still some things you want to ask, but unlike Mr. and Mrs. Potter you have classes in the morning and it is already late so it is best if we retire for the evening.''
Both Hermione and Tracey looked reluctant, but stood up regardless when they saw McGonagall standing up. McGonagall picked up a note from her desk and handed it to Hermione. ''This is a standard note that allows you in the corridors after curfew. You can show it to a teacher of prefect if they see you on your way back. I expect it back during tomorrows lesson.''
Hermione accepted the note and left the office after saying goodbye to everyone.
''Now then if you three will follow me, I will show you where rooms are.'' The deputy told them while standing up and walking out of the door.
After they excited the office and McGonagall had locked it. They headed up the stairs to the third floor. Eventually they reached a painting of a pig with wings and stopped before it. ''This is the entrance to your room Ms. Davis., the password to enter is ''fugiens porcum ''. As you probably understand Ms. Davis having your own room is a privilege. If you abuse this privilege that I am afraid I have to revoke it, even if it is for your own safety.''
Tracey said that she understood and wished everyone a good night before telling the painting the password and disappearing inside.
After having said their goodbye to Tracey they continued their walk until they reach a painting on the fifth floor of Elvina the Gray.
After saying goodbye to the deputy, they gave the password and entered. Once they were inside they were greeted by Tammy. ''Welcome back my lord and lady.''
Harry asked the elf to wait a moment after that he looked at his wife who had been scanning the room with her wand since they entered it and asked, ''How bad is it?''
''Pretty bad, but nothing I can't remove,'' She replied, ''There are several listening charms, a spell recording charm and finally a charm which will put a tracking charm at everyone who enters. I am going to remove them now, give me a couple of minute and they will be gone.''
After she had said that, she began walking around the room, waving her wand and muttering spells for several minutes.
After that she walked to her daughters room. Upon entering the room she saw her child sound asleep. Daphne silently walked up to her and removed the tracking charm. After that she returned to Harry and removed the tracking charms on herself, Harry and Tammy.
''I have removed all the charms and put up some protection, so the same thing can't happen again.'' Daphne said, ''But this is only a temporary measure. We will have to put up something stronger soon. As the protection is now it can easily be broken by the old men''
Harry nodded knowing that protection strong enough to really stop the headmaster couldn't be put up in a couple of minutes. But at least this would slow him down somewhat and they would receive a warning if anyone destroyed their temporary wards.
He turned his attention to the patiently waiting house elf and ordered, ''I want you to go back to Potter manor and gather several of my elves. Order them to go to the cottage owned by the Potter family in Milham. Tell them to clean the house up and to put some protections around it.''
The elf looked confused for a moment unsure if she was allowed to say what she was thinking. Harry noticed her expression and asked what was wrong.
''Tammy is sorry for asking, but is master going to live there? Normally lord Potter lives is in Potter manor.'' The elf asked while still looking unsure if she really was allowed to question her master like that.
''Yes, we are going to live there.'' Harry answered the elf. ''Daphne and I have seen Potter manor and we think it is a bit large for only a family of three. It doesn't feel like home.''
The elf bowed, ''I will do as you asked master.''
''So what did you think of our little meeting?'' Harry asked Daphne.
''Tracey is with us. I have know her for a long time and I could see that she wasn't lying when she said that she wanted to continue our friendship. Her occlumency shields are unfortunately not yet strong enough to tell her any of the important stuff. If she is willing than I am going to teach her how to improve. I am not sure regarding Hermione, she is without a doubt your friend, but I am not sure who she would choose if she had to choose between us and Dumbledore. And since the main reason why she choose us over Dumbledore hasn't happened yet and if possible will never happened, it will be a bit more difficult to convince her. As for McGonagall she will help us, just like she will help any other student but for now her first loyalty lies with the headmaster. We have to watch out what we say to her.''
''Yes, I think you are right about McGonagall. I am pretty sure that the old man is being briefed at this very moment about our meeting with her.'' Harry said. '' Do you want to proceed as we planned?''
''Yes,'' Daphne replied '' We have a floo connection in this room so I can contact my contact at the Daily Prophet. I am confident that the reporters already received information from both people in the ministry and the students of the school. so it will be better if we give out a statement ourselves otherwise they will just make something up. We can also use the opportunity to subtlety remind them to what happens if you slander a head of a most ancient and noble house. That treat should even scare Skeeter of, even if it is only for a short while.'' She finished with a slightly evil grin.
''And I assume you still want me to ensure your name also comes out of the goblet tomorrow?'' Harry asked.
She gave him a look that basically stated that it was a stupid question that didn't even deserve answer.
''I know, I know'' He said after seeing her look.'' I just don't want to put you in anymore danger''
He held up a hand when she was about to interrupt and said. ''I know it's impossible to change your mind about this so I won't even try anymore.''
He took the miniature trunks out of his pockets and enlarged them. Out one of them he picked his trusty invisibility cloak and a map he hadn't used in many years.
''I just realized I kept my invisibility cloak and a marauders map in my trunk in my fourth year so we now have two of each.''
''That would be useful,'' Daphne commented. ''It makes moving around in this castle a lot easier.''
Harry swung the cloak over himself. ''I am going to the goblet now, I would wish you luck with the reporter, but knowing you he would need it more.'' With that he put up his hood, not missing her calling him a prat.
Standing outside the room he ticked the map with his wand and spoke. '' I solemnly swear that I am up to no good.''
The moment he said that from the point of his wand lines started to appear until eventually a entire map of Hogwarts had appeared. Harry saw that his way to the entrance hall was free so he slowly made his way through the castle until he was in the entrance hall.
In the middle of the hall stood the goblet of fire. Approximately a meter from the goblet was a circle that was glowing white and surrounded the goblet. He reconsidered it as the age line. Harry pulled out his wand scanning the line, making sure it doesn't do more than casting people out if they are too young. When he was satisfied that their weren't any additional protections he passed the age line easily. When he reached to goblet he pulled out a piece of parchment where Daphne's name was written on. The piece of paper came from a essay her younger self recently had turned in and she had gotten it back at the end of the year, with the rest of her work. They had decided to use this to point more suspicions towards the teachers and away from them self.
He then started casting spells at the goblet, making it accept that there were five champions. He then threw Daphne's stroke of paper in the fire under the fifth school.
Finished with his task, he started to clean up. He cast several spells that would erase his magical signature from the area and the goblet specifically.
After he had made sure that they couldn't trace the fifth champion to him he looked at his map and when he saw that there was once again a safe route he walked back to his room.
Back in his room he saw his wife sitting in one of the chairs writing something on a piece of parchment and looking satisfied. ''Everything went well I take it?'' Harry asked.
Daphne nodded, ''My contract was very surprised to see me, but he was more than willing to put our statement on the front page. They had already written something, but they thought our version was better. I even got a magical oath out of him that our story will be front page news and they won't alter our statement in any way. I even gave him one of our photo's for the trouble. I assume you managed to finish your task too?''
Harry gave her a cheeky grin and said. ''We will see tomorrow now wont we. Anyway what are you writing?''
''I am writing out what you need for your plan tomorrow.'' She wrote a few more lines and said. ''There done.''
He let out a slight yawn and said ''I think it is time we head to bed. We spend half the night drawing up the runes and today was a long day. Not to mention that tomorrow should also be quite tiring with all the questions we will get especially after tomorrows prophet and the choosing of the champions in the evening.''
Daphne nodded and after checking up on Lucy, they went on to bed. After they lied down and cuddled up together, they fell asleep within seconds.
The next morning owls were delivering the morning edition of the Daily Prophet with as promised, on the front page the statements of the Potters.
While the Potters who at this point where still peacefully asleep were not aware of it, their article caused quite a reaction to many people.
The next morning: The burrow
Molley Weasly was busy making breakfast and was humming a song softly. She missed having her children around. She hoped that there would be grandchildren soon, so that she could help raise them in the proper ways.
Her thoughts turned to her children. Bill and Charlie had left the country and she had no idea if either one was romantically involved. She was pretty sure they weren't otherwise they would have told their mother immediately.
Percy had just finished Hogwarts and had gotten a respectable job at the ministry. From what she has been told he is currently in a relationship with a Ms. Clearwater. She hadn't met the girl yet, but for now she was her best chance at having grandchildren.
Then there were the twins. She had given up hope about their future after hearing their O.W.L. scores. With such low scores they would never be able to get a proper job, and therefore neither a proper wife.
And finally her youngest two. Although she hated to say it but as Ronald was now it would take a miracle for him to get a girlfriend. Maybe she could convince the muggleborn he is friends with to spend the summer here and ''convince'' her to give him a chance. And then there was her only daughter, she was convinced she would make the perfect wife for Harry Potter as she has told her daughter for many years.
The owl bearing this morning Daily Prophet choose that moment to arrive and dropped the newspaper on the kitchen table. She paid the owl, glanced at the headline and continued to make breakfast. After several minutes she abruptly stopped working and looked at the headline again her mind not believing what her eyes tell her. After she realized that her eyes weren't playing tricks with her she screamed ''HE HAS DONE WHAT!?''
The office of the minister of magic
Fudge was having a good morning he heard from one of his departments that Potter had traveled back in time. He could use his position as minister to demand information from the boy. He was sure his friend Lucius would pay well for this kind of information. His happy face turned to ghostly white in seconds after receiving today's paper and looking at the front page.
''This can't be good.'' He said barely above a whisper.
Reactions of varying degree were heard throughout England. The one who was most happy about the article was without doubts the prophet, who sold more copies than ever before.
Chapter 4: The day of champions
The two sleeping adult Potters were having a good night rest. It was nearing ten o'clock and they were still vast asleep. That was until a exited five year jumped atop of them and told them the obvious news that she was awake.
Daphne let out a long yawn and greeted her child. ''Morning Lucy, how are you?''
''I am hungry,'' She complained.
Daphne chuckled and said. ''Then let's see if we can get some breakfast okay?''
''Okay!'' the exited child chirped.
In the mean time Harry had called for Tammy and asked her to bring breakfast and today's newspapers. He had already used a Tempus charm to see the time, so he knew they were too late for breakfast in the great hall.
Moments later Tammy reappeared with the Potters breakfast and this morning's Daily Prophet. They all moved to their common room and ate the breakfast at one of the tables there. When they were finished Daphne took Lucy to get ready for the day.
Harry meanwhile looked at the newspaper Tammy had brought. Half the front page was filled with a photo that Harry recognised was made at Lucy's fifth birthday. It was a picture of Lucy blowing out the candles on her cakes with both her parents on her side. All three wearing big grins.
Harry then began reading the article:
Boy-who-lived Time traveller?
By special correspondent L. Lane.
Manny of your readers may have heard the rumours that the boy-who-lived suddenly appeared during yesterdays morning breakfast in the great hall of Hogwarts looking considerably older then he should be. According to the rumours he was also accompanied by a small child who He claimed was his daughter Lucy. Also there if rumours were to believed was his wife the former Daphne Greengrass heiress to the most Ancient and Noble house of Greengrass.
The number of people who claimed this made it hard to believe that they were mere rumours, but now we can officially confirm it. Because yesterday evening we were visited by the lady Potter herself. With her she had official ministry documents that proved her status. She also had a written statement with her that she allowed us to print as long as we didn't edit anything out. The statement is as follows:
To confirm the rumours that most likely appeared with our arrival, We (Harry James Potter and Daphne Arianna Potter née Greengrass) want to inform you about the following fact; We indeed came back from the future. Our reasons for doing this has been discussed with the head of the DMLE and there has been a agreement to keep the reason silent. Harry Potter has accepted his title as lord Potter, he also accepted the title of acting head of house Black. This is because the current lord Black, Sirius Black was wrongfully imprisoned without a trial. We also have a daughter her name is Lucilla Astoria Potter and she is currently five year old.
That was the statement given to us by the Potters unedited. This statement my dear readers have answered some of our questions, but there are still many questions out there. Rest assured this reported will find out everything you might want to know.
For more information on Harry Potter see page 2
For more information on Daphne Potter see page 4
For more information on Sirius Black see page 6
For more information on the most Ancient and Noble houses of Potter, Black and Greengrass see page 7
Harry laid the paper back down. He had no interest to read any background information about himself nor about his wife and godfather. And there was little information he didn't know about the three houses mentioned on the seventh page.
Harry took a piece of parchment and scrabbled a quick note to Madame Bones telling her that he was sorry to include her in the article like that, but that it was the best excuses as why not to tell the reason for coming back. Harry knew if they had printed that Voldermort was still alive then he would most likely be called delusional attention seeker (again). He then called his elf and asked him to put the note on the desk of the head of the DMLE.
Daphne walked back in the room after she and her daughter had taken their shower and were dressed for the day. ''So, did they print what we gave them?'' She asked.
Harry nodded and said, ''Yes they did and I am glad you put up a owl direction ward otherwise we would probably have been woken up by more than one howler.
Daphne smiled and said, ''Why did you think I did it? I may have been tired, but I was awake enough to think of that. It wasn't exactly all that hard to do it.'' She gestured to a rather large box that stood in the corner of the room, from where he was sitting he could see quite a couple of envelopes including several red ones. ''We have a ward on us that make any owl who has letters for the three of drop the letter into that. The box is surrounded by several silencing wards and a couple protections ones. Now why don't you go take a shower and I will try to add a filter to the box's wards to show us if we have mail from certain people.''
After his morning ritual he listened his wife exploitation that the box now would turn blue if they received mail from someone who was entered into the filter. For now that was only Madame Bones and the Greengrass parents.
The time until lunch was spend on reinforcing the protections on the room. One of the first thing they changed was the password based protection of the portrait. Passwords wouldn't work anymore, now you had to place your hand on the portrait and it would recognise you magical signature. The protections were so that only Daphne's and Harry's signature would be accepted.
It was now also impossible for house elves to enter the room, expect for the elves that are bonded to the Potter family.
When it was time to for lunch, the three left their room and made their way down to the great hall. One they were inside the great hall they made their way over to the Gryffindor table and sat down next to each other with Lucy in the middle.
Even though it was Lucy who said she was hungry she didn't seem to notice the food that was in front of her. She was way to busy staring around the great hall. The hall was the strangest looking place she had ever seen. She also several people who she knew, but they looked different for some reason then that she remembered. She saw her aunt Tori sitting furthest from the table she was sitting at. They made eye contact with each other and she saw her aunt wave at her. She was about to return the wave when she heard someone shout.
Her attention was drawn to the front of the hall where she heard the shout come from and she saw it was a man dressed completely in black, He wore a grin that mad slightly scarred and she grabbed the hands over her parents who had also turned their attention to the scary looking man. She heard him shout. ''Potter fifty point from your house for skipping this morning's lessons.'' His grin disappeared when he saw that not only the points in the Gryffindor hourglass disappeared but also the points in the Slytherin hourglass.
''POTTER WHAT HAVE YOU DONE NOW.'' He shouted.
''Severus, please don't be so loud. You decreased the point yourself, what is the problem?'' Minerva asked from her seat at the head table.
''I gave that brat Potter a deduction, not someone of my own house.'' He replied while still angrily glaring at Harry.
''What you said could apply to a member of both our houses. That is why Hogwarts reduced points from both our houses. Besides I gave them both the morning of so that I could make a new schedule for them so your reduction was unjust and will be restored.'' After she said that the points in both hourglasses were restored.
She turned her attention to the Potters and said, ''Mr. and Mrs. Potter I have you schedule here. Could you please come collect it?
''I will get it.'' Harry said while standing up.
While her father walked up to the table were the scary man was sitting, Lucy tugged the sleeves of her mother sweater. ''That man looked scary.'' She muttered after she received her mother's attention.
Daphne obvious knew who her daughter was referring to. She wouldn't call the man scary rather, but she could understand how a five year could find him scary when he looked so gleeful when he deducted points.
''Don't worry,'' She reassured. ''He is harmless and if he ever does something I will blast him in the wall for you, okay?''
Lucy nodded believing her mother immediately and finally started eating.
The Gryffindors who had been sitting around her and had been looking suspiciously at the Slytherin at their table had been greatly surprised when they heard the snake promise her daughter something that is many Gryffindors dream. Maybe she isn't so bad they thought after hearing it.
Harry retrieved the schedule from the deputy headmistress, pointedly ignoring the scowling potions teacher. After he retrieved the schedule he walked back and noticed several people around Daphne were looking at her with a semblance of respect. He wondered what caused that.
After he sat back down he held the schedule between them so that they both could read them at the same time.
The schedule read
Monday
08.00-10.00 potions (s)
10.15-12.15 Defence against the dark arts (r)
12.30-13.00 lunch
13.00-15.00 charms (H)
15.15-17.15 Transfiguration (s)
Tuesday
13.00-15.00 ancient runes (r)
00.00-01.00 astronomy
Wednesday
08.00-10.00 care of magical creatures (s)
10.00-12.15 history for magic
12.30-13.00 lunch
13.00-15.00 charms (h)
Thursday
10.00-12.15 defence against the dark arts (r)
12.30-13.00 lunch
13.00-15.00 history of magic
15.15-17.50 potions (s)
Friday
08.00-12.15 herbology (h)
12.30-13.00 lunch
13.00-15.00 transfiguration (s)
''Well that could be worse.'' Harry said, ''The only subject we have today is transfiguration.''
Daphne nodded and said, ''You are right. It's a shame we have to attend the feast tonight otherwise we could have gone home for the weekend after transfiguration.''
''We are going home tomorrow?'' Lucy asked in a exited voice.
''Yes sweetheart, we are going home for the weekend we are also going to spend at grandpa and grandma.'' Harry said.
''Will aunt Tori be there too?'' She asked in a exited voice.
''I am afraid not.'' Harry said. When he noticed her crestfallen look he added, ''But she will be here the rest of the week so you can see her every day, expect in the weekends then you can see grandpa and grandma.''
Lucy got a big smile at hearing that. She didn't really understand why she never met her aunt Tori before, but she really liked her in the short time she know her.
''Really?'' Lucy asked and if possible her smile got even bigger.
''Really.'' Harry confirmed.
Although it was still weird for many people at the Gryffindor to see the daughter of Harry Potter, they still had to smile seeing such a exited young girl.
Suddenly the three Potters heard someone call them from behind them. ''Good afternoon Harry, Daphne.''
Hermione had arrived late for lunch. They were left out early with Herbology and she had wanted to spend some extra time researching in the library. When she noticed the time she had hastened to the great hall. Arriving in the hall she noticed her best friend and his wife sitting at the Gryffindor table and walked up to them. When she was behind them she greeted them. She then noticed the child sitting in between the one she just greeted. The child had also turned around when she heard her so she decided to introduce herself. She struck her hand out to the child and said. ''Hello I am ..''
She didn't get any further then that because Lucy had climbed out of her seat and had launched herself at Hermione. ''Auntie Granger!'' She exclaimed wile happily hugging her legs.
Hermione looked like a deer caught in headlights unsure what to do, especially as half of the Gryffindor started glancing at her included her little sister.
Taking pity on his friend Harry suggested. ''Lucy, why don't you finish your food. I am sure Hermione also likes some food.''
Lucy nodded enthusiastically and dragged her into a seat next to her which resulted Harry having to move a bit to the side.
''Hey Hermione, I see you have met my daughter.'' He said in good-natured tone.
Hermione tore her gaze away from the happily eating girl and looked at Harry. ''Yeah, I didn't thought she would react like that.''
''She was just happy to see you. It's been a while since she has seen you. Or at least a version of you.'' Harry responded.
''She can't pronounce my name cant she?'' She inquired, still remembering how Emma used to call her when she was younger.
Harry shook his head and said. ''She managed to mangle your name in many variations until we eventually thought her to call you by your last name.''
Hermione looked thoughtful for a moment, giving a couple glances to the child to her side and eventually spoke up. ''I am not sure what it means to be a godmother, but I would like to spend some more time with her.''
Beaming at his friend, Harry said. ''I am sure she will like that, Hermione.''
After several minutes of peaceful eating Hermione turned to Harry again and asked. ''Harry? Can I ask you another thing about yesterday?''
''Sure, just remember there are some things I can't tell you, until you lean to protect yourself properly against mental intrusions.''
Hermione nodded. She had of course read up on legamacy after yesterday's meeting and she could understand why he couldn't tell her everything. She had already found several books that described how to protect you mind, but she hadn't had any time yet to read them yet.
''What exactly are the most Ancient and Noble houses? You talked about it yesterday morning and it was in the newspaper the morning, but it was all a bit vague.''
''The most Ancient and Noble houses were the fifteen families that founded the Wizengamot. Over the years several of the houses died out. Currently there are only seven houses left. Commonly referred to as 'the seven'. Even to this day the houses are very strong both politely and financially. The seven houses are: Potter, Black, Bones, Longbottem, Greengrass, MacDougal and Nott''
''Wow.'' Hermione said. ''And both of you are members of a most Ancient and Noble house then?''
''Not completely,'' Daphne said. ''There are basically multiple ranks within a house. There are members, heads, and heirs. If you are a member, than you have the protection of your house and you are usually given a allowance out of the family vault until you are of age, but basically nothing more. If you are the heir or heiress, than you will succeed the head of the family if he dies and you can vote in the lords place if the current lord is unfit to vote. If a heir is underage then the tasks will be performed by the man or wife of the head or close relation, until the heir can do itself. If your are the head of a family than you are allowed to appoint a heir, vote in the Wizengamot, cast members out of the family, place people under the family protection and accept contracts that concerns the family.''
Daphne paused and looked at Hermione and asked. ''You understand everything so far?''
Hermione nodded and said ''I think so''
''Good.'' Daphne said ''As you probably already figured out this means we are not just members of the most Ancient and Noble houses. I am a member of house Potter, and a heir of house Greengrass. Harry is a head of house Potter and heir of house Black. Lucy is the current heir of house Potter.
''I see'' said Hermione seemingly thinking trough all the information she got. Harry seeing his change started to eat again now Hermione was distracted.
After five minute Hermione spoke again and asked. ''beside you, how many heirs are here on Hogwarts?''
Harry swallowed a bite and said, ''Strangely enough, All of them are actually year mates of us. Well except for Lucy. So knowing you, you probably already know the names.''
Hermione thought for a moment then she began. ''Well you already told me Potter, Black and Greengrass, that leaves Bones, Longbottem, MacDougal and Nott. The only Bones I can remember is the Hufflepuff Susan Bones. Eh for Longbottem, Neville? There are multiple people of the MacDougal family in Hogwarts, but I believe the one in fourth year's name is Murron.''
''Almost entirely good. The only family were you were wrong was MacDougal. Murron MacDougal is a third year. The fourth year's name is Morag.'' Harry corrected her.
Daphne had at this point finished her meal and said. ''I am going to get our books for the day. See you at transfiguration.''
''See you at transfiguration.'' He replied.
''Harry?'' Hermione said after Daphne was out of earshot.'' Can I ask how the two of you ended up together? Because the Harry I knew is pretty much against everything Slytherin.''
Harry shrugged and said. ''It's a bit of a long story, but for now you could say that I had bit of growing up and I realised that the world is black and white. And that being Slytherin doesn't mean that you are evil nor does being Gryffindor mean being good.''
''I see ,'' Hermione said. ''I hope to hear that story some time. I take it that Ron didn't react too well too your new outlook. Is that why you called him Weasley instead of Ron?''
Harry snorted. ''Saying he didn't react well would be a gross understatement. You know him, even if you give him logical argument he will always stick to the whole Slytherins are evil thing. So no he and I weren't exactly friends anymore when we went back.'' Harry looked around the table and asked. ''Where is he anyway? I would have expected him to come ranting at me for betraying Gryffindor and stuff like that.''
"I heard he received a howler this morning during breakfast. I am not sure what it said because I had already left for the library, but it seems he is avoiding everyone as much as possible.''
''Ah.'' Was Harry elegant reply.
After they had finished their food Harry asked Lucy ''Ready to see what the professor is going to teach us?''
''Yeah!'' Lucy exclaimed enthusiastic.
Hermione looked surprised at hearing this. ''She is going to attend the lessons with us?''
''Some of them.'' Harry confirmed. ''She likes to see magic being performed so I think she will enjoy transfiguration, but I am not letting her anywhere near Snape.''
''Professor Snape.'' She corrected automatically.
Harry shook his head if only she knew what that man had done in his life. ''Come on Lucy, let's go.''
Lucy climbed out of her seat and gave her waiting father a hand and held her other hand expectantly out towards the sitting Hermione. ''Are you coming too auntie Granger?''
Hermione was about to say no, because she wasn't finished yet, but one look at the hopeful looking face of Lucy changed her mind. She stood up, accepted the hand and said. ''Of course.''
With that the trio left the hall and walked to the first floor where the transfiguration class was located.
Daphne was already waiting for them in front of the classroom. ''Survived the integration about how we gotten together?'' She asked Harry.
''How did you...?'' Hermione began.
''I know you.'' Was the simple reply from Daphne.
At this point McGonagall had arrived and unlocked the door so they could enter. The three Potters and Hermione walked in and sat down next to each other.
Over the next couple of minutes the fourth year Gryffindors and Slytherins students arrived. Moments before the lesson was set to begin, a very red-faced Ronal Weasley stormed into the room.
He stood a moment in the entrance of the room. His eyes rooming around the room glaring at everyone seated. His glare intensified when he saw Harry and Daphne. When McGonagall told him to sit down, he hastily made his way to a desk in the corner of the room.
The first half or the lesson was for a lack of better terms; utterly boring. McGonagall was explain the basic theory of the vanishing spell. Harry had after only a couple of minutes silently conjured a set of crayons and gave that together with a piece of parchment to his daughter. Who looked just as utterly bored as he was. He spend the rest of the theory part of the lesson watching his daughter draw some of the most interesting ''creatures'' he had ever seen. He could safely say that was far more interesting then listen to the theory.
Finally it was time for the practical part. For the practical part they got the assignment to vanish the slug that McGonagall gave you.
Both Harry and Daphne vanished the slug nonverbal within moment of receiving it. Manny people in the class looked utterly shocked at seeing this.
Harry rolled his eyes seeing this and thought. 'Did they honestly thought we would have trouble with something we learned a decade ago.'
He looked at Daphne and although she hid it well, she too seemed annoyed by the class reaction.
He turned his attention to his daughter who was staring very intensively at the slug on the desk of Tracey, who was sitting in front of them.
''What are you doing?'' He asked Lucy.
''I am trying to make the slug disappear like you and mommy did.'' She said seriously.
After seeing her determent face, Harry thought. 'Why not?'
He gave his wand to the little girl and said. ''If you want to make it disappear, than you have to aim carefully at the slug and say Evanesco while concentrating very hard on the image of it disappearing in your head.''
Lucy took the wand reverently, feeling very proud that her daddy trusted her with his wand. Especially after she had been told that the wand is the most important procession of a witch or wizard.
She aimed her wand carefully with both her wand and said, ''Evanesco'' while thinking very hard on making it disappear.
To her disappointment and her parents surprise, half the slug disappeared.
''Well done Ms. Davis. You are the first person after the Potters who managed to at least partly vanish you slug. Five points to Slytherin.'' McGonagall commented.
''That wasn't me professor, the spell came from behind me.'' Tracey admitted.
McGonagall looked who was behind the girl and only saw Daphne and Lucy with a wand in their hands. Making in her head the only logical conclusion she asked Daphne. ''I understand why this is easy for you Mrs. Potter, but why did you interfere in other students work?''
''Actually professor, my husband thought it was a good idea to give our daughter a wand and tell her what spell to use. You can see the result for yourself.'' She said with a look that was somewhere between pride for what her daughter did and annoyance for being singled out like that.
''Are you saying that a four year old girl managed to do something sooner than the rest of the students in the class?'' She asked in a unbelieving tone.
''I am five!'' Lucy loudly exclaimed feeling insulting being called four. 'Honestly' she thought 'she wasn't some little four year old.'
''I am sorry Ms. Potter I meant no disrespect. Are you really responsible for partially vanishing the slug?'' The professor asked.
''I wanted to do the same thing as mommy and daddy did and daddy said if I wanted to make it disappear than I had to aim his wand at the slug, concentrate very hard and say Evanesco. But I couldn't do it. The slug is still there.'' She finished in a sad tone.
Harry gave his daughter a sideway hug and said. ''You did great. No one else in this class manage to do that and you don't even have your own wand yet.''
Daphne gave a sideway hug from the other side and said. ''Your father is right your did great. I couldn't do that at your age.''
Hearing the praise from her parent got the smile back on the little girl.
McGonagall still looked like she didn't believe it until Hermione confirmed it that she saw the spell being cast by Lucy.
The rest of the class was rather uneventful through it seems most student were more motivated to do the spell properly. Harry thought it was because they didn't wanted to be outdone by a little girl.
After the lesson ended the Potters made their way back to their chamber, having enough of the starring for a while.
Once they reached the room Harry saw that their post box was glowing blue. ''So how does this work?'' Harry asked Daphne since she created the filter. ''We know we have mail from someone we added to the list, but how do we know which letter it is.'' He had no interest to go through all those letters at the moment looking for the correct one.
''Oh I spelled it so you only have to say 'receive' and they will be send out of the box.''
As she said the word, a single letter flow out of the box toward her and the box stopped glowing blue. She easily caught the envelope and asked. ''Are you expecting anything?''
''I send a note to Madame Bones explaining why we didn't want to mention why we came back and why we implied that she agreed that it had to be kept silent.''
Daphne nodded and realised that they probably should have discussed that with her when they were there yesterday instead of releasing it in a statement like that, but they had a lot on their head yesterday and completely forgot it.
She took the letter out of its envelope and quickly read it trough. When she was finished reading she said. ''She wasn't happy that she was mentioned like that, but she seemed to agree with you reasoning that it has to kept silent for now.''
Daphne looked thoughtful for a moment and said, ''Harry, I have been thinking do you think we can use Rita Skeeter in our plans?''
''You must think she is, otherwise you wouldn't bring it up.'' Harry said with a faint smile.
''She is good in gathering information and we still have that book she wrote about Dumbledore in one of our trunks. I am sure she would like to publish it earlier this time around.'' Daphne said
''Yes, but what prevent her from slandering us. She seemed to practically fond of it in my fourth year.'' Harry countered. ''Heck I am actually surprised she hadn't a article in this morning Daily Prophet. ''
''You underestimate your position in society. In the previous timeline you hadn't even picked up your position as heir let alone the position as lord you now hold. Rita is many things, but she isn't stupid enough to slander the head of most ancient and noble house, unless she can get away with it. Besides we know a lot of information about important people that I am sure she would want. If we make her swear a magical oath that forces her not to write something bad about, our allies and those under our protection in exchange for this information. ''
Harry got a calculated look in his eyes and said, ''You are right, if we can get her to make that oath than not only wont we have to deal with one of the most annoying persons in the press we can also use her to destroy our enemies in the eyes of the public. So do we contact her or do we wait for her to come to us?''
''It's probably better if we wait for her. It give us a better position during negations if she thinks we are indulging her and instead of the other way around. She probably will be there during the weighting of the wand. We can talk with her then.
Harry agreed with her and they spend the rest of the time until dinner playing memory with Lucy.
When it was almost time for dinner they called Tammy.
With a pop she appeared and asked how she could help.
''Harry and I have to go to the Halloween feast. We are not sure how long it is going to take so can you make dinner for Lucy and make sure she goes to bed at eight?'' Daphne asked
''Yes mistress, Tammy can do that is there anything else Tammy can do for mistress?''
''Tammy, you can sense the protective wards in this chamber right?'' Harry asked.
'' Yes master, I like all the Potter elf can sense the ward you put up.''
''Good than I want you to take Lucy to Greengrass manor if anyone tries to take down the wards and tell lord and lady Greengrass we will contact them soon. Do that always if we ask you to look after Lucy in this room until I tell you otherwise.'' Harry said.
''Tammy will do that master.'' The elf said and after she had bowed to them she popped away.
After ten minutes she returned with the meal and Harry and Daphne hugged Lucy and said their goodbye to her and left after making her promise to listen to Tammy.
''So how do you think they will react when our name comes out of the goblet?'' Harry asked while walking down to the great hall.
''Most will probably be shocked, we seem to have that effect on people lately. Maxime and Karkaroff will probably be angry again and Dumbledore will try to demand information again.'' Daphne replied.
Harry snorted at that. "I like to see him try.''
They walked silently for a moment when Harry said with a smirk. ''Do you think Fleur will call me a little boy again?''
''Doubt it, you are older now maybe now she will try the opposite.'' Daphne answered
Harry gave her a questioning look and said. ''Opposite?''
With a fake French accent and a air of superiority she said. ''Madame Maxina! Zey are saying zat zey are competing, zey can't compete zey are too old.''
Harry had to laugh at her. ''She wasn't too bad after I saved her sister in the lake.''
''True, I will try to be nice to her. She was one of our better healers after all. Its thanks to that spell that she invented that I can stare at your gorgeous eyes of you without your glasses hiding them. Anyway are you sure of letting Crouch keep his cover for now?'' Daphne asked.
''Yes, as long as Fudge is still minister than the ministry is pretty useless. So we can't involve them until he is replaced. Besides he is directly responsible for the dead of Cedric, for that I will make him suffer for a while.'' Harry replied. "And we don't want Voldemort to be any more suspicions then he probably already is.''
After reaching the great hall, they made their way over to the Gryffindor table and sat down next to Hermione at the G Gryffindor table and started to eat.
You could see how exited everyone was by the tournament because they didn't even bother the pair. Except for a couple of people who asked if they know who would be chosen and were promptly ignored.
After two hours the meal was finished and Dumbledore stood up. He waved his wand and all the light were dimmed expect for the blue flames of the goblet.
"Students, friends and guests the goblet of fire is ready to choose the champions any minute now.''
After a couple of minutes a piece of paper came out of the fire and Dumbledore caught it. Unfolding the paper he exclaimed. ''The champion for Dumstrang is Victor Krum.''
The hall exploded in a loud applause for the popular quidditch player. Harry noticed that the girls in the hall were a lot more enthusiastic with the applauding then the guys.
''Very good Mr. Krum, Please make your way over to the room to my left.'' The Hogwarts headmaster said while indicating said room with his hand.
After Krum had left, another name came out of the goblet. ''The champion for Beauxbatons is Fleur Delacour. ''
There was another round of applause this time for the part veela. This time it seems that the males in the were more enthusiastic although there were also a lot of blank stares toward the Beauxbatons champion.
''Well done Ms. Delacour please join Mr. Krum in the room.'' Dumbledore said.
After that the third name out of the goblet. ''The champion for Hogwarts is Cedric Diggory''
There was the loudest applause yet after hearing this name. This was mainly because Hogwarts had considerably more students in the hall, who applauded for their own school.
"Good job Mr. Diggory please join the other champions. We will be there momentarily.''
Dumbledore started to address the crowd, ''I am sure you will support the chosen champions. The first task will be at ...'' At that moment the goblet flared up again and Dumbledore read out. ''Harry Potter.''
There was a complete silence while everyone turned to watch the Potter lord, apparently to shocked to say anything. Harry and Daphne themselves got a look of annoyance on their faces.
''Harry, could you plea-'' That was as far as Dumbledore got because a fifth piece of paper sprang out of the goblet. Dumbledore caught the paper and read out. ''Daphne Potter.''
The name of the second Potter seemed to bring everyone out of the shock that the name of the first brought. Several shouts of cheaters were heard in the hall, along with several that were less nice.
Harry had enough of the insult hurled toward them and took out his wand. He cast a spell that resulted in a sound similar to someone scratching his nails over a school blackboard, significantly amplified.
Even he himself cringed from his own spell, but at least he attained the results he was hopping for since the entire hall was silent.
His eyes went over the hall glaring at everyone. ''I would appreciate it if you people at least take the time for a investigation instead of immediately hurling insults and accusations. I did not enter myself into this tournament. And before you begin I will take a magical oath to prove this.'' He then pointed his wand upwards and said. ''I Harry James Potter swear on my life and magic that I did not enter myself in the tournament that is known as the Tri-wizard tournament. ''
Daphne stood up beside him and took her own oath. ''As you can see we are both still very much alive.'' Harry said. He then turned his wand at Dumbledore, his actions was mirrored by Daphne. ''I admit in my past I was also chosen as champion, but Daphne never was. You wouldn't know something about this sir? Last time after I was entered you supposedly investigated who put me in the goblet, but conveniently you never found anything out. Or maybe you didn't want anyone to know the results about your investigation? Maybe it was you who entered us, or someone on your orders. Perhaps it is for the best if you also give a magical oath that you don't know who entered us, after all as headmaster of Hogwarts you had the most to gain from having three champions.''
Harry's little rant resulted everyone, teaches include staring at the headmaster expectedly seeing how he was going to react to those accusations.
As for Dumbledore he knew perfectly well who had entered Harry into the tournament. Did that imposter really think he wouldn't see the difference between a imposter and one of his best friends. He figured that the imposter must work for Voldermort and that he most likely wanted to enter Harry in to the tournament for some reason. He figured that he could use this situation to test the boy again and at the same time figure something out to show the world that Voldermort was still alive. He only didn't understand why he would also the Greengrass heir. Regardless for the reasons they were entered had to respond on the child's accusations.
''I assure you Mr. Potter I did not enter you in the tournament and you have no right to make demand for oaths like that.'' He reprimanded. ''Now can you and Mrs. Potter join me and the champions so we can discuss this.''
''So unlike us you refuse something that could easily show the truth and you want us somewhere were there aren't so many people listening.'' Harry said at such a volume that he was heard by a large part of his own table and part of the table next of him.
With that Harry and Daphne walked toward the room Dumbledore wanted him in. He had lowered his voice deliberately when made his last comment in compression to the volume he was using when he addressed the entire hall. He had done this so that Dumbledore couldn't counter what he said. And he could trust the Hogwarts rumour mill to make sure that by tomorrow morning everyone would know what he had said.
Once they entered the room they got questioning looks from the other champions. It was again Fleur who asked the questing. ''What is it? Did they send you to collect us?''
They didn't have time to answer because only mere moment after she said that the teachers and the ministry people entered the room.
Dumbledore stormed over to the Potters, looked Harry directly in the eyes and asked. ''Did either of you enter your name in the goblet?''
''Neither of us put our own name in the goblet headmaster. Unless you are going senile then I can understand it, but if you are not then I thought you would be able to at least be able to remember the oaths we made less than five minutes ago.'' Harry said. '' I also would appreciate it if you didn't try legilimency on me, you know that that is illegal.''
Dumbledore was stunned that he encountered solid shields on a person who's defences ware always non-excited.
''I am sorry my boy but I just wanted to be sure you were speaking the truth.'' The old man say.
''I don't care what you want headmaster, If you ever try to use legilimency on me than I will make sure the DMLE will know.'' Harry said.
''You insufferable brat, who do you think you are threatening the headmaster? You are just as arrogant as you father.'' Snape shouted.
Harry pulled his wand and said. ''Don't you dare to insult my father, death eater.'' He pointed his wand at Snape and a orange beam came out of wand.
Snape eyes went wide and he fell to the ground completely motionless.
''MR. POTTER!'' Dumbledore roared.
''What?'' Harry snapped
''How dare you attack a teacher? You could be expelled for this.'' Dumbledore asked.
''I am no longer a little boy who will let himself get insulted by a death eater. Besides you can't expel me thanks to the binding contract of the goblet of fire, I have to attend this school until the tournament is over and we were already planning to leave the school at the end of the year.'' Harry said.
Dumbledore sighted this Harry Potter proved to be too uncontrollable he needed to do something about it soon.
''We will talk about this later. For now let's discuss what to do about the tournament. But before that please undo the spell you put on professor Snape.'' Dumbledore said.
''No.'' Harry said flatly.
''No? What do you mean no? You will do this.'' Dumbledore said.
''Or else what? You are one of the strongest wizards alive right? Surely you can undo a spell cast by a fourth year.'' Harry said.
Dumbledore sighted again and started casting spells on the still form of the potions master.
After ten minutes of casting spells nothing had changed and the headmistress of Beauxbatons had enough. ''Dumbledore ,this has gone on long enough. We are here to discuss the tournament, not to see you feel at reviving one of you staff.''
''I guess you are right.'' Dumbledore said while feeling very irritated because he couldn't undo the spell. ''What are we going to do?''
''I demand that Dumstrang is also allowed two more champions like Hogwarts.'' Karkaroff said.
''That's impossible,'' Crouch said, ''After the goblet had chosen the champions, it can't be lighted again until it's time for the next tournament.''
''Than disqualify the two Potters.'' Igor said. ''They said it themselves they didn't enter themselves. ''
''Again that would be impossible, as Mr. Potter already said, at the moment their name came out of the goblet a binding contract was formed.'' The ministry official said.
''Fine so we can't enter additional champions and we can't disqualify, but that still hasn't solved our problems.'' Karkaroff said.
''Actually, we have something prepared in case this happened.'' Daphne said.
''What do you mean?'' Dumbledore asked.
''Like Harry said in the great hall in the previous timeline he also was forced to compete. Him entering caused him quite a bit trouble because almost no one believed he didn't enter the tournament. Because that we prepared a contract that hopefully will make it clear that Harry didn't enter himself and couldn't care less about winning the tournament.'' Daphne said.
''What is this contract?'' Igor said.
Daphne pulled out a sheet of paper and handed it over to Karkaroff. She said, ''This contract was originally written with Harry in mind but it can also apply to me. Because the contract formed by the goblet only forces us to participate and has no real meaning at who wins, means that we can use this contract to settle our matters.''
Igor accepted the document and read out load.
''If a member of house Potter manages to have the highest score at the end of the tournament than the champion with the second highest score will be declared the winner.''
''That sounds reasonable but why would you give at the change of eternal glory and the price money?'' Fleur asked, speaking for the first time.
''Eternal glory? Price money? I am already one of the most famous people of our time for surviving the killing curse and compared to the Potter fortune the price money is absolute nothing.'' Harry said.
Fleur had to admit he was right even she knew about the stories of the Boy-Who-Lived and how much money the most ancient and noble houses of England supposedly had.
''Do the heads of the schools agree with the contract?'' Daphne asked.
They all three agreed with it and the three heads and the two Potters signed the contract. After it was signed it glowed a bit, making it official.
After the contract was signed Madame Maxine had one last question. ''Wile I am grateful that you tried to make it fair by taking yourself basically out of the competition. If you knew that you would be entered why didn't you try to prevent it?''
Harry sighted that was actually a pretty good question. Maybe it were only the British wizard who lacked common sense he wondered. ''This is because we aren't allowed to tell what will happen to the future by decree of the head of the British DMLE. The only option left would be to mess with the goblet itself. And we seriously had no idea how that things works and you shouldn't mess something that has the ability to create contracts that can take your magic away with only a slip of paper.''
The headmistress of Beauxbatons had to agree they had a point. Anyone with even a bit of conmen sense wouldn't try to mess with a magical artifact like that.
Since the disputes seemed to be settled Bagman continued his introduction of the tournament. ''Well then now that that is settled let's start the explanation of the tournament shall we? The first task will be on November the twenty-fourth you will get no prior knowledge of what the task entails and you are only allowed to have your wand on you when you start the task.'' Bagman said while looking at the five champions.
''Are there any questions?'' After getting a negative response from the champions he continued, ''You are not allowed to ask for help for the tournament to a teacher or a minister official. That being said I wish you all the best of luck.''
After that the two foreign headmasters took their champions and left. Cedric was also about to leave when Harry asked him to inform all the houses what happened tonight especially about the oaths and the contract.
Cedric agreed to do that, after hearing Harry himself wasn't able to do that because he wouldn't be there for the weekend.
The two Potters were also leaving when they were stopped by the headmaster. He said, '' Harry, I must speak with you about what happened tonight. Could you please join me in my office?''
Harry sighted. ''Headmaster we already have been over this. So don't bother. Goodnight headmaster.''
With that they left, leaving behind a annoyed headmaster and a potions master who laid on the ground forgotten.