Chapter 15: Mr Smith meets Madam Bones
When Madam Pomfrey arrived at the Hospital Wing from a late dinner, and a rest period, she looked over the patient notes and watched as Harry and Daphne completed the round of potions. Madam Pomfrey motioned for Harry to let her finish, and he let her complete the job with one of the worst patients.
"How are things?"
"We've restocked the Hospital Wing, and Professor Sutherland is brewing the list of potions you need," Daphne said. "I have a few potions simmering under Hermione's watch as well."
"Which potions?"
"Skele-Gro and an anti-inflammatory," Daphne said. "Mrs. Flume's leg has started to swell."
Madam Pomfrey nodded.
"What have you done?"
"I've administered the last dose of anti-inflammatory, and Professor Sutherland said he couldn't add anything else to the brew right now."
"I see," Madam Pomfrey said. "Let me examine Mrs. Flume and we'll see what's going on."
With that, Daphne was back at work while Harry worked with Fleur to treat a student who had gotten in a fight and had boils growing off of her hands and arms. The teen didn't mind Harry treating her, but the teen was smart enough to ask Fleur to help. Fleur was more than happy to help, much to the disdain of the student, a sixth year Slytherin.
Harry removed the hex easily, and Fleur smiled at him as she applied the proper potion to the student to reduce the itching form where the boils were.
After that, there was an influx of students with injuries from a fight in the Great Hall, and Madam Pomfrey sighed.
Ron, who had started it, was lying in the infirmary with a broken leg and tentacles growing from his face. Harry was assigned this case since it was one of the worst, and Madam Pomfrey wanted him to handle the guys for obvious reasons.
"Harry, why won't a healer see me," Ron demanded.
"I'm as good as you'll get for now, Ron," Harry said. "This is a spell, and I'm better at removing spells than I am anything else."
Ron glared at Harry, and frowned. He'd wanted a pretty nurse.
After removing the growth, and giving Ron Skele-Gro for the broken leg, Harry left to take care of additional patients. The Skele-Gro would make Ron think about fighting, and Harry had decided to let the redhead taste the horrible potion and feel the horrible feelings of the potion working.
Harry's next patient was Neville, who had been injured helping Hermione try to stop the fight. He had a broken wrist.
"Hi Harry," Neville said. "What will you do?"
"Let me check, Neville," Harry said, waving his wand. Harry examined the break and nodded.
"I can't quite do this one since it's near too many nerves," Harry said. "I'll let Fleur handle this."
Neville smiled as Fleur walked over at Harry's summon.
"Broken wrist," Harry said. Fleur nodded. Broken wrists could be dangerous if healed incorrectly, so she knew Harry was right to let her handle it since she had more finesse with healing magic.
Shortly, the students were on their way back to their common rooms, and most of them had already been chastised by the professors. However, Hermione entered and she was crying.
"What's wrong, Hermione?"
"She was hit by a horrible spell that doubles one's feminine problems," Cho Chang said, grimacing. "Draco Malfoy."
"I see," Harry said. "I don't know what to do with this, so I'll let Daphne take care of you."
Hermione nodded, and Daphne walked over at Harry's wave, as she'd just gotten through with another patient.
"I'll take care of Hermione, Harry," Daphne said. "You take care of Dumb and Dumber," she said, indicating the Twins. "They had a charmed product backfire."
Harry nodded and walked over.
"So, gentlemen," Harry asked. "What were you testing?"
"We were testing a canary cream when someone hit it with an extra spell," Fred said, as he was covered with feathers.
George agreed, but he couldn't speak because he had a beak instead of a mouth.
"Do you know what the other spell was?"
"I think it was a permanence spell," Fred said, nervously.
Harry nodded.
"Well, if you'll give me a few minutes, I'll examine you and see what I can do."
After a few minutes, Harry knew what he needed to do. But he wanted Madam Pomfrey's opinion. She walked over seeing the Twins, knowing what kind of things they could get up to.
"What happened this time?"
"They were testing one of their products, a canary cream, when someone hit it with what they think is a permanence hex."
"Mr. Potter, what do you think?"
"It can be removed, but it will be quite painful to do so," he said. "If you examine them, it was almost as if it's a forced partial animagus transformation."
"Ah yes," Madam Pomfrey said, as she examined the patients. "I'd like to get Filius and Minerva on this one. I don't think they're in danger and we should take it a bit longer, just to prolong their suffering. They send so many people to me."
Harry chuckled as he went to the Floo. A few minutes later, McGonagall and Flitwick were brought him to help counter the spell. It took McGonagall just five minutes to change each one back, and she took them to her office for a lecture after Madam Pomfrey filled them full of potions and released them to free up space.
When the weekend ended, Harry and Daphne were told they could return to classes since most of the patients had been discharged from the hospital wing. The few that were there were easily handled by Fleur and Madam Pomfrey, who had worked out night shift duties between the two.
Harry spent his first lesson with Madam Pomfrey, learning advanced healing methods that he had not learned before. She wanted to see where he was and teach him more healing spells. Daphne spent her free time in the hospital wing as well, and she helped teach Harry spells, and Madam Pomfrey was determined to find out where she was in her medical education as well.
By Friday, Professor McGonagall had found a few NEWT students who wanted to learn healing, and Madam Pomfrey and Fleur would teach them basic first aid so they could help in a crisis like the previous one. While one or both taught the class, Harry and Daphne would staff the hospital wing to treat students who were injured and to watch the one patient who was going to be transferred to the long-term care ward at St. Mungos the following morning.
Harry's studies had continued, and Madam Pomfrey was glad that he had a tremendous knowledge of curses. It really helped when another fight left two students with so many curses on them that Madam Pomfrey had a hard time deciphering what they were. Harry was able to do so, and he removed the curses one by one.
Madam Pomfrey praised him for his knowledge of curses and hexes, and she told him that he would make a great spell damage healer. She would guide his training to the spell damage and dark magic area, since he was knowledgeable in those areas. Daphne's forte was potions, wildlife, and plant life injuries, which complemented Harry's knowledge. Both could do routine and general healing, and Madam Pomfrey didn't know what to make of the two teens.
One evening in October, Harry and Daphne were walking back to their room after a shift in the hospital wing. They heard a noise in a closet and decided to check it out.
When Harry opened the door, a very naked Ginny Weasley was on her back, and in the 69 position with Dean Thomas.
"Miss Weasley, Mr. Thomas!" Harry said.
The two jumped up in a hurry.
"It wasn't what you think it was," Dean said, as he grabbed his clothes.
"That will be twenty points from Gryffindor and a week's worth of detentions," Daphne said.
"But…"
"Each," Harry said. "I would give you a harsher punishment if it was in my authority."
"I agree," Daphne said. "Not get back to your common room. You can expect your Head of House and the Headmistress to speak with you about further punishment tomorrow."
Both students blushed.
"Harry, you wouldn't punish Gryffindor that bad, would you," Ginny asked.
"Get dressed and get back to your common room, now," Harry said. "Oh, before I forget, that's ten more points each and a night's detention for being out past curfew. And ten more points each for being out of bounds."
After they were dressed, Ginny and Dean hurried out, and Harry followed them on the Marauder's Map, to Daphne's delight.
"How should we write it up?"
Harry smiled slightly and then took out his patrol notebook and wrote down the time and date.
Date: Oct. 15, 1995
Time: 23:14
Students: Ginny Weasley (Gryffindor), Dean Thomas (Gryffindor)
Location: 4th Floor Corridor broom cupboard, between Potter-occupied Quarters and library
Violation: Out after Curfew, Out of Bounds, out of school uniform (nude), inappropriate acts of a sexual nature
Action taken: loss of 40 points per student (20 sexual activity, 10 curfew violation, 10 out of bounds), Six nights of detention per student to be assigned by Head of House/Headmistress (5 sexual activity, 1 curfew violation), verbal warning to return to common room.
Further punishment recommended: Further loss of points, further detention, notification of parents, two weeks restricted to common room outside of class hours and meal times.
Prefects present: H. Potter, D. Greengrass-Potter
Daphne read Harry's recommendations on the punishments and smiled.
"I like how you recommended that their parents be notified. I'm sure Professor McGonagall will remove fifty points each and give them more detentions."
"I know she will," Harry said. "Let's get back to our quarters."
"And make love," Daphne said, with a smirk. "It is ok for us to make love as long as I don't get pregnant."
Harry nodded and smirked. He really loved Daphne's sense of humor.
The next morning, Harry and Daphne were asked to visit with Professor McGonagall before classes.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Greengrass, I want to speak with you about Mr. Thomas and Miss Weasley."
Harry nodded.
"What questions do you have, Professor?"
"What were they doing?"
"They were in a broom cupboard. They were performing oral sex on each other, completely nude."
"I see," McGonagall, said, pursing her lips. "And I see that you made the curfew violation and out of bounds violation separate offenses."
"I thought I would compound their problems, Professor," Harry said. "I didn't want to dock so many points, but you would have docked them a hundred points each, and may still do so."
"You are correct, Mr. Potter. I have docked them sixty additional points each and they will serve three more weeks of detention. I will also take your recommendation to contact their parents for appropriate punishment and to inform their parents that they are on probation for the rest of the school year."
"So any further violations of the rules will result in suspension?"
"Yes Miss Greengrass," McGonagall said. "Who docked the points?"
"I was going to take twenty off, but Harry decided it should be each."
"And Mr. Potter was correct," McGonagall said. "I know you were in the hospital wing until late, and Madam Pomfrey has kept me alerted to your schedule so you won't be out of place or get in trouble."
The two prefects nodded.
"Further, since both of you are now apprentices, I will trust you with more authority to remove points and give detentions. You may now remove up to fifty points per student and give up to two weeks worth of detentions, pending my approval. I do expect you to continue to write down punishments in your notebooks, as I use this for every professor and staff member to monitor their use of the points system.
"You will have no curfew, as you can be called to the hospital wing in the event your assistance is needed for any reason. I expect that the two of you will not abuse this privilege."
"We won't, Professor," Daphne promised.
The fire flared to life, and a voice came over.
"Headmistress McGonagall?"
"Yes Arthur?"
"Molly said that you wished to speak with us about our daughters actions?"
"Yes I did. Come on through, Arthur."
Mr. and Mrs. Weasley exited out of the fire a moment after Mr. Weasley's head left.
"Harry, what a surprise," Mr. Weasley said. "It's good to see you again."
"And good to see you again, Mr. Weasley," Harry said, shaking the man's hand.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Greengrass, I want you to stay for this."
The two nodded, and Harry stood.
"Professor, permission to conjure a love seat?" Harry asked McGonagall. It would be rude to use magic in her office without asking.
"Granted," McGonagall said, turning her attention to Harry for a moment.
The teen waved his wand and a comfortable love seat appeared. The seat was green, with a snuggling silver boar and phoenix in the middle of each cushion. Daphne grinned at Harry before moving out of the chairs to sit in the love seat Harry conjured.
"That's a great job, Mr. Potter," McGonagall said after examining the love seat for a moment. "I can see that your training with me isn't going to waste."
"No it isn't, Professor."
"Mr. Potter is a Charms, Transfiguration, and Healing Apprentice," McGonagall explained to the Weasleys.
"Minerva, I wish I had time to chat, but I must return to work as soon as I can."
"I understand, Arthur. Please, have a seat."
"What did Ginevra do," Molly asked.
"Mr. Potter?"
"We caught her and Dean Thomas out after curfew last night," Harry said. "She and Mr. Thomas were unclothed and engaged in simultaneous oral sex."
Molly paled and Arthur blinked in surprise.
"I was there as well," Daphne said.
"What were you two doing out," Molly asked, accusingly.
"Molly, as Healer Apprentices, Mr. Potter and Mrs. Greengrass-Potter were returning from a shift in the hospital wing. Poppy keeps me up to date with their schedule."
"I see," the woman said. "Why is it you wanted me here?"
"I wanted to inform you that if your daughter breaks any more rules that loses her twenty points or gains a week's detention this year for a single event, she will be suspended from Hogwarts for two weeks. This will also remove her from any extracurricular activities all year and she will no longer be eligible for a student leadership position for he remaining time at Hogwarts. Further, she will be on probation for the rest of her time at Hogwarts if she is suspended. Expulsion is the next step after suspension.
"I have arranged to meet with Mr. Thomas' parents to inform them of this later today. And I will speak with Mr. Thomas and Miss Weasley after lunch to inform them of their further punishment and their probation for the remainder of the year."
"I will speak to her," Molly said.
"I would hope so," McGonagall said. "This is all I had to say, but I wanted to tell you in person."
"Thank you, Minerva," Arthur said, sadly. "I trust that you will ensure that she truly deserves her punishment if she gets it."
"I will, Arthur," Minerva said in a sympathetic voice. "As it stands, she and Mr. Thomas lost a combined two hundred points from Gryffindor, and will each have four week's worth of detentions served with various professors. I have also taken the step to restrict them to their common room for two weeks when they aren't in classes, in a designated study hall, or in meals. If they violate these provisions, they will be suspended automatically since breaking restriction is an automatic fifty point deduction and two weeks' worth of detention, which they will be assessed in addition to the suspension."
"May I speak with my daughter today?"
"Certainly," McGonagall said. "She has a free hour next period, and we can speak with her together, if you'd like. Mr. Potter, Mrs. Greengrass-Potter, you are dismissed. This note will get you in your classes."
"Thank you, Professor," Harry said, taking the note. "Have a good day, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Headmistress."
"You too, Harry, Miss Greengrass," Arthur said. "Oh, Harry, Minister Bones will be coming to speak with you and your betrothed this afternoon. She asked me to alert you that she will be coming."
"Thank you," Harry said, giving the man a nod. "I will await her call."
When Minister Bones arrived, Harry and Daphne were in the hospital wing for one of their lessons. Harry's lessons had been aimed more toward healing after he admitted that he wouldn't mind becoming a Dark Magic specialist. He still met with Aberforth three mornings a week, as well as Professor Flitwick and McGonagall once a week to continue his training in Combat Magic, Charms, and Transfiguration.
"Hello, Minister," Harry said, as he saw her enter the Hospital wing with Professor McGonagall.
"Good afternoon, Minister," Daphne said, with a smile.
"Mr. Potter, Mrs. Greengrass-Potter," the Minister said, with a smile. "Madam Pomfrey, would you mind if I steal your apprentices for a few moments?"
"Not at all, Minister," The woman said to her classmate. "I was just finishing up a lesson and they were about to go and brew a potion for me."
Amelia smiled, and McGonagall motioned for them to follow.
When they were in a private area, Minister Bones started.
"Permission to put up privacy charms," Harry asked.
"Certainly," McGonagall said.
Harry took out his wand and waved it a few times, muttering incantations. Several flashes of magic accompanied his wand work, and, when he was done, he nodded to the Minister and put his wand back in the holster.
The Minister paused a moment in surprise, as she recognized all of those spells, and even some of her Aurors had a hard time with those privacy spells. But her reason for being here was probably the reason he knew all of those spells in the first place.
"I am surprised that the two of you are already apprentices," she said. "When I had Alastor do some research, he came up with several implausible things that happened for you. For instance, the two of you have graduation certificates from the Merlin Academy of Advanced Magic. Mr. Potter has Mastery Certificates in Combat Magic, Dueling, Warding, and Curse-breaking, as well as Journeyman status in Charms, Transfiguration, Potions, and Healing. Mrs. Greengrass-Potter has Mastery Certificates in Healing, Potions, and Herbology.
"Is that true?"
"It is," Harry said, seeing no reason to lie to her. "I guess the charms that were to hide our identities ended when we returned to our own time."
"I would say so, Mr. Potter," Minister Bones said. "If it wasn't the Goblin Nation involved, I would have both of you in Azkaban right now for the illegal time travel. I have spoken with Director Ragnok and President Greenfist, and both vouched for you. I have received copies of your examination scores, as well as your Gringotts Marriage certificate and oath to not meddle with time."
McGonagall pursed her lips. If she hadn't known about their training, she would have been most upset.
"Minister, can I ask that you don't reveal any of that?"
"I have no intention of doing so right now, Mr. Potter," the woman said, causing both teens to sigh in relief. "I just wanted to clarify what happened with you before I did anything. This is called investigating, you know."
Harry smirked and nodded.
"Your predecessor would have just thrown me in prison and damn the law and consequences," Harry said, getting a nod from the Minister. "What will happen now?"
"Gringotts, the appropriate Guilds, and the Merlin Academy have agreed to seal your records from being released until you turn twenty years old," she said. "At that time, I would expect that you will have made a press release stating that Gringotts allowed you to time travel as goblin friends to seek extracurricular training in order to prepare for the conflict with You-Know-Who. I hope he has been defeated by that time."
"I hope so too, Minister," Harry said. "Does Sirius know you are aware of this? We have fully briefed him on our travels because he could help us."
"I spoke with him this morning after Alastor got back to me," Minister Bones said. "This information has been declared an Omega level secret since you do have a prophecy about you, Mr. Potter. I am aware of it, though I am not aware of the full contents. I know as much as He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. I might add this prophecy is a State Secret as well."
"Daphne and Sirius are the only ones that know the full prophecy. I told them so I would have some help dealing with it."
"That's understandable, Mr. Potter. Or shall I say Mr. Smith?"
Harry smiled weakly at the Minister.
"I still need to question you about your actions in Diagon Alley. I won't question you about Romania because that is outside of our jurisdiction and the local authorities did not file charges against you."
"What would you like to know," Harry asked.
"Can I see a copy of your memory of the events in Diagon Alley?"
Harry nodded and concentrated on the memory. He brought his wand to his temple and withdrew the memory strand. He placed it in a vial the McGonagall helpfully provided.
"What questions do you have for me," Harry asked. "I can't tell you the names of many of the spells I used because of a contract I signed with the goblins."
"Goblin Battle Magic," Amelia asked.
Harry nodded.
"That's all I can say without breaking the contract."
"We don't need you breaking a goblin contract, Mr. Potter," McGonagall said, as the Minister agreed.
"Minister, Headmistress, if we can go to our quarters, I can show you a few more things that you will want to know about," Harry said.
"What are you talking about, Harry," Daphne asked.
"You know, the papers we were given."
"Yes, I know now," Daphne said. "That's a good idea."
"Don't tell me the two of you are animagi," Amelia said, groaning. "Please tell me that I won't have to haul you in for this?"
"We have papers to show you about that," Harry said.
After disabling the privacy charms in the room with a wave of his hand, Harry led them to their quarters.
"Potter's Hidden Paradise," he said to the guardian, and the door swung open. Daphne smirked.
"Fleur's idea," she said to the elder women. "Harry, dear, get the papers and I'll play the host."
"Ok, luv," Harry said, as he disappeared in their room while Daphne put on a pot of tea.
"Will we need to be here that long?"
"I presume that you will have questions," Daphne said. "But I do ask that none of you reveal this due to the prophecy. And I think our animagus forms should be kept secret unless the press finds out."
"And why is that?"
A Royal Phoenix landed on the table with a thick folder. The Minister almost fainted when she realized who it was.
Harry flew off of the table and transformed back before taking a seat.
"I can see why," the Minister said, dryly. "Mr. Potter, that is quite a surprise. And the last magical animagus was Godric Gryffindor."
"As far as we know, that is true for this country," Harry said. "Dumbledore was quite powerful enough to have a magical animagus form, but there is no guarantee he could have made it," Harry said. "And Voldemort may have a magical animagus form as well, but, again, there is no guarantee he has the ability to use it."
"Well said, Mr. Potter," McGonagall said. "You surprise me yet again. So tell me, why are you studying with Aberforth?"
"He knows a lot of esoteric spells that can be used in combat," Harry said. "I know a lot of lethal spells, but I'm sure Minister Bones would prefer that I use nonlethal spells if possible."
"You are correct, Mr. Potter," the woman said. "And the practice is always helpful as well."
"Yes," Harry said. "For me, it has been eight long years since I have studied combat magic extensively. I have studied healing, wards, and curse-breaking since then."
"So you may have forgotten a few things?"
"That's a very safe bet to make, Minister," Harry said, as he opened his folder. "This document is my citizenship papers of the Veela Nation. Daphne and I were made citizens of the Veela Nation after our summer of training there with several of the top Veela in various fields. Along with this, we were deemed legal adults will full portkey, apparating, and animagus rights." Harry said, handing the Minister the proper certificates. "At your discretion, we will copy these papers and send in our applications for the appropriate documents."
"Do you have any more?"
"Yes. We also have concurrent rights for Antarctica, Egypt, and the United States due to our employment with Gringotts and attendance at the Merlin Academy of Magic. These are the proper documents."
"What's this," McGonagall asked, pointing to a document.
"This is my certification as an American Hit Wizard," Harry said. "I had to attend the training program before I could do contract work for the American Government for two years. I have full certification as a Field Healer in the United States."
"Isn't a Field Healer just a year of training below a healer," Amelia asked.
"Yes Minister," Daphne said. "I am a full healer and a full potions mistress. Harry specialized in field medicine to heal patients in the field and I would say that he is as good as any healers who graduated from St. Mungos. He just isn't as sure in some areas as I am."
"There are some things I don't handle well," Harry said. "One area would be pregnancy and related complications. I would rather someone else handle them. And I need more training in healing broken bones and a few other ailments that require fine magic control. I have a lot of control, but I don't yet trust myself to heal certain things."
"Madam Pomfrey is helping him learn to heal those things," Daphne said. "She has also gotten us provisional permission to enroll in the Pre-Healer Internship at St. Mungos this summer."
"I am willing to show my Field Healer Certification at the end of the year, as Madam Pomfrey is capable of signing off on those certificates," Harry said. "As it is, I was given certification as a Basic Field Healer by the Veela over the summer, without using time modification. By the end of the year, Madam Pomfrey said she would be willing to sign off on my Intermediate Field Healer Certificate after I take the exam. And I will have my Expert Field Healer Certificate by the end of my time at Hogwarts."
"Madam Pomfrey is one of the premier Field Healers in Europe," McGonagall said. "And you are in the right place to study that field."
"I agree," Minister Bones said. "Have you decided on a career yet?"
"No ma'am," Harry said. "We have so many things at our disposal that we have considered returning to Gringotts for a few years."
"That is after our legal and public wedding once we turn seventeen. I think I like that idea, as Harry was a team leader before we resigned from Gringotts. Of course, when the children start coming, I would like to have a steady job."
"There will be a job here waiting for you, I can assure you of that," McGonagall said. "It may not be at Hogwarts or the Ministry, but there will be a job waiting for you."
"And if Mr. Potter defeats the Dark Lord," Amelia said. "I know I will bend over backwards to hire him if he wants to be an Auror or a Ministry Field Healer."
"Harry can do so many things," Daphne said, proudly. "He is much more versatile than I am. I can do potions and healing, though I am capable of defending myself and earning NEWTs in most subjects at Hogwarts. If you want someone to remove a curse from an item or person, put up a ward, or take down an enemy, you want Harry. He can also brew potions like veritaserum and Wolfsbane."
"Those require a Potions Master, Mr. Potter."
"At the Merlin Academy, all students in the Advanced Combat Magic track were required to brew those potions," Harry said. "And under Daphne's tutelage, I earned my Journeyman's in Potions."
"Harry could become a potions master if he wanted to," Daphne said. "But he doesn't have the mind set to do so. He is an action oriented person. Or at least spell-oriented. He'd rather be in the field or studying a spell rather than watching a potion."
"You've got that one right," Harry said, getting a smile from Daphne.
The two women smiled at the byplay of the lovers.
"Being so, Mr. Potter, I now wish to speak with you about your actions as Mr. Smith. We need to continue, as we are all busy people."
"Sorry," Harry said.
"Don't be," McGonagall said. "This conversation has been quite enlightening. If we do this the correct way, we may be able to work out a scheme so that you can take your NEWT exams and study under professors here for your certificates to hide your true studies."
"I won't study under Sutherland," Daphne said. "I hate how his eyes are glued to me. And I fear that Harry will remove those eyes if he isn't careful."
Harry nodded.
"I will speak with him again," McGonagall said. "I can guarantee that we will be searching for a new potions Professor. Professor Sutherland has lapsed in his duties to help in the hospital wing brewing potions, leaving it all to you. Legally, you can brew them as a potions mistress, but we wish to keep that under wraps."
"I don't mind brewing at all," Daphne said. "And Harry knows his way around a cauldron to brew a lot of healing potions and potions one needs in Combat Magic or Law Enforcement. The regulations state that a Journeyman in Potions may be certified to brew certain potions by the appropriate category. And all Field Healers at the Intermediate Level are Journeymen in Potions as a prerequisite."
"I will look into it, Mrs. Greengrass-Potter," Minster Bones said. "Now, Mr. Smith."
Harry smiled slightly as the Minister paused to consider her next question for him.
Chapter 16: Death of a Light Legend
AN: This Chapter has been edited slightly to add in something that should have been there at the end. It is only the last three paragraphs or so.
"Mr. Potter, why did you choose to use lethal spells against the Death Eaters? ," Minster Bones asked, as she looked at Harry across the table.
"Minister, I know that you would prefer non-lethal spells. So would I. But this is a war. In a war, we have to fight to kill our enemies before they kill us. If you watch the memory, each of those Death Eaters had murdered or attempted to murder civilians. And if you pay attention, they gang up on me and start to wake up those I had stunned.
"In this case, it was better to take them out of the fight permanently than let so many murderers get away."
"I understand, Mr. Potter, but that was right before I was able to consolidate the power away from the blood purists that Fudge employed. There was a call for your arrest on the charges of murder by several members of the Wizengamot, most of whom were later revealed to be Death Eaters or supporters. I have to ask these questions."
"I know," Harry said. "From what I understand of the law, I have a right to defend myself and others. The Death Eaters were using the Dark Arts. If the Ministry expect me to fight Voldemort or defend myself against wizards using Battle Spells using a stunning spell, I'll leave Hogwarts with my ladies and we'll live elsewhere under the Fidelius Charm, and let this damned country die out."
"Mr. Potter, that is treasonous talk," Minister Bones said, as McGonagall's temper seemed to flare.
"No, Minister," Daphne said, interrupting. "It's common sense. If anyone who fights against the Death Eaters using potentially lethal spells is arrested and charged for the crimes, then my husband and I will leave this country and live elsewhere. We do not want to live in a country where one can be arrested for defending themselves against someone trying to kill them. After all, our presence here is a mere formality due to our legal ages, not our actual ages."
"In this case," Minister Bones said, trying to gain control of her logic and accusations. "You are correct in that you have the right to use potentially lethal spells in retaliation for someone trying to kill you or another innocent. In fact, if someone uses a spell against you, then you can use a spell of the same level legally. The Old Laws allow for someone to use the killing curse against those who use the killing curse, and so forth. So if someone uses battle magic against you, you can use battle magic against them, though the normal use of battle magic is illegal. The Ministry and Wizengamot sometimes forget this law is on the books and people just defending themselves have been placed in prison for life for hitting another wizard with the killing curse in self defense."
"Then we should have a campaign to educate people that they can defend themselves without fear of prosecution as long as they do not go overboard," Harry said. "I am experienced enough in law and combat magic to recognize the spells I can and cannot use, as I had several hours of study of escalating magic so I would know what I could use. Most countries have laws such as these to protect those who use potentially illegal magic to defend themselves."
"The point is the magic is illegal," the Minister said. "That is why so many who defended themselves were put in prison."
Harry nodded.
"Yes, I know," he replied. "I'm glad you understand this. And since you are the Minister, you can educate the public about the laws that are on the books without being questioned. I would, however, stress that using illegal magic will be carefully scrutinized to see if it was warranted."
"I would suggest that you interview the survivors with veritaserum in those cases," Daphne said.
"I can agree with that, Mrs. Greengrass-Potter. I will start to educate my people about the laws the can prosecute people under in the case of self-defense. However, I don't think I will let the public know that the law means they can use the killing curse if someone uses it against them. That would be too dangerous, and too many bystanders could get injured if that happened."
"Yes, I agree," Harry said. "But the percentage of the population that could cast a killing curse is much smaller than those who could successfully cast the Imperious Curse, for example. Battle Magic is just that, for battles. I understand where you are coming from.
"And I will say that if I am ever in a battle, I will stick with using legal forms of magic, even if some of it is questionable. You will find, if you do your research on the spells I used, that I used no illegal spells. Some of them are frowned upon, yes, but none of them were illegally used."
"How is that the case? Some of the magic you used is illegal if you use a Latin-based incantation."
"Simple. You must make each incantation illegal," Harry said. "The law requires that, and one cannot ban entire classes of magic without naming each and every spell. That is why there are so many legal Dark Arts spells that one can use if you carefully examine the laws. The blanket prosecution for the illegal use of magic should bank on the intent of the user in the cases of those who use the Dark Arts that are not explicitly named as illegal spells."
"I have not heard this argument before, Mr. Potter. Can you give me some examples of where this logic is true?"
"Plenty of examples," Harry said.
He summoned a piece of parchment and a pen. Then he wrote down several spells off the top of his head. He handed the list to Minister Bones.
"What do you think of these spells?"
"Off the top of my head, I would arrest you for using them. They're Dark spells."
"But if you read the letter of the law, they are not illegal," Harry said. "I know because I wrote a term paper on the legal uses of Dark Arts spells in the United Kingdom. However, I'm not saying you should tell everyone this is the case; but you should carefully examine spells to know which ones are illegal.
"Under the current laws, even, say, a modified killing curse would be legal due to the need for spells to be explicitly named. You could charge them for murder, just like if I used a levitation charm on someone and dropped them from several hundred feet in the air. But the spell itself would not be illegal."
"This will require deep thought, Mr. Potter," Minister Bones said. "I have never heard of this argument, and I have never thought of it this way. I will consider what you say and will get back to you on this. Are there many more spells that are this way?"
"Potentially hundreds," Harry said. "But if you name all of them illegal, then you will have more felons than you will have prison space. For example, many healing spells or cooking spells can be used to torture someone if you know what you are doing. That use of the spells is dark, but using those same spells to heal or cook is not. You should carefully consider your options."
"So you suggest that I should have intent-based laws on hand? And we should question everyone as to their intent when using the spells?"
"Exactly. But there should be very careful consideration on how to apply this. Maybe you should convene a panel of legal experts and magic experts to examine the current laws and see how the laws can be changed so that the intent of the spell caster is what gets them put in prison, not the spell itself. However, there are spells that should be highly restricted, such as the spells that were designed only for torture or murder. But that will be hard to prove.
"Again, great care should be taken so blanket banning of spells doesn't happen just because people consider them to be dark due to one dark lord or lady."
Daphne spoke before Minister Bones could say another comment.
"Minister, you do have to consider that this will take years to consider. It has been part of a debate that many have had before us, and will continue to have after we are gone. You don't have to be the one to solve it, but you need to keep this very real issue in mind."
"I see," Minister Bones said. "I am glad we had this discussion, Mr. Potter. I can firmly say that the law is on your side with your actions in Diagon Alley. I just ask that you consider using less violent spells if there is any way you can do so safely. And next time, don't run away after taking out Death Eaters. Leaving the scene of such an incident will plant the idea in some that you are guilty of using illegal magic. And, in that event, the Aurors will bring you in for questioning and are more likely to find a law to use against you."
A very thoughtful Minister and Headmistress left the room with many more questions unanswered than they had answered. And, once the door closed, Harry hit the floor with a very happy Daphne kissing him firmly on the lips.
After the meeting with the Minister and a rousing round of love-making, Harry and Daphne had a firmer plan about what they would do in the future. They were going to continue their current course of action at Hogwarts, and, of course, they were going to consider how to reveal to the public about what happened over the summer. It was obvious to all of them they had to consider this and write a press release that would be sent out once Voldemort died, or the Ministry wanted them to publicly claim what they had done.
They discussed the plans for a while after their love-making, and while Harry dressed for a House meeting that Professor Burbage had called for all Gryffindors. Since he was still a titular Gryffindor, he was required to attend the meeting. McGonagall had been sure to inform him that this was the case until they considered their options again due to the unique situation they were in.
After getting dressed and kissing his lover, Harry headed to the Gryffindor Common Room for a House meeting since he was still considered a student. He got to the Fat Lady and said the password, "Galloping Gargoyles", and the portrait swung open.
He set foot in the common room and he was immediately accosted by Ginny.
"WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING GETTING ME IN TROUBLE, POTTER?"
"My job, Miss Weasley," Harry said, in a cool tone. "I would appreciate it if you don't yell at me."
"Potter," Ron spat. "Why did you lie about Ginny? She's not a Scarlet Woman, unlike that bitch of yours."
Harry turned and faced Ron.
"Mr. and Miss Weasley, five points from Gryffindor for unfounded accusations and inappropriate language," Harry said, in a cool tone. "Miss Weasley, you should remember you can lose twenty points if you continue to yell at me. And you know that will mean your suspension from Hogwarts."
"And I will agree with his punishment," Hermione said, standing with her arms crossed. "I am tired of hearing you and Ron complain about how Harry lied to the Headmistress about you just because you don't like his betrothed."
"He's doing this to get back at me for hating his bitch," Ginny spat at Hermione.
"Enough!" Harry said, in a loud voice. "One more comment like that and I will take away ten more points from Gryffindor, Miss Weasley. If you'd like, I can show your parents, your brothers, and the rest of Gryffindor the entire scene to see if they agree with me. I do have a projection pensieve in my quarters and I can go and get it. And I will swear an oath that the memory I show is nothing but the truth. That way, we can let the house decide who is right or wrong in this case."
Dean and Ginny blushed deeply, and Ginny didn't say another word. There was a deep silence that was interrupted by Professor Burbage's entrance in the common room.
"What's going on here, Mr. Potter? I can heard the lively discussion down the hall."
"Professor," Harry said. "Miss Weasley and Mr. Weasley accused me of lying about an incident with Miss Weasley last night using inappropriate language."
"Is that true, Miss Bell? Miss Granger?"
"Yes Professor," The two prefects said together.
"Very well," the Muggle Studies Professor said. "Mr. Weasley, Miss Weasley, I will expect you in my office tomorrow to discuss your actions as of late. I have seen your names in the morning prefect reports too often for my liking. If I see you in the report any more after tomorrow for bad behavior, I will remove fifty points from each of you for your continued bad behavior. And you, Miss Weasley, should note that this will result in your suspension from Hogwarts.
"As it is now, Gryffindor is in negative points, primarily because of Mr. Thomas, Mr. Weasley, and Miss Weasley. But that doesn't mean none of the rest of you are to blame either. I do not like that because you are not acting like Gryffindors. You are acting like spoiled children. This is the point of the house meeting I called.
"Mr. Potter, would you please read me the names of the people who have been in the Prefect Report for the last week?"
"Yes Professor," Harry said. He opened his Prefect Report book and read the names of the Gryffindor students from the last weekly report sent from the Headmistress's office.
Harry went on to read quite a few names on the list. In all, thirty six of the approximately seventy Gryffindors had been on report at least once in the past week for fighting or other inappropriate conduct.
"As you can see, quite a few of you have run afoul of the rules. If you continue this, then Professor McGonagall will not allow our House to participate in Quidditch or in Hogsmeade weekends. And, as long as we have fewer than a hundred house points, all of you will be required to be here in the Common Room studying if you are not in class, in the hospital wing, or at a meal. There will be no moving about the castle unless you have a reason to do so.
"Mr. Potter is the only exception to this rule, as he is an Apprentice and has extra duties that prefects don't have. And he also has correspondingly less free time to do his homework and study.
"Do you have any questions?"
"The other prefects are abusing their authority," Ron said.
"Mr. Weasley, the Gryffindor Prefects are the ones who are reporting you the most," Professor Burbage said. "Mr. Potter and Miss Granger have reported most of you for breaking the rules, and they have enforced the rules fairly. Upon request, they provide copies of their memories of an incident to review the appropriateness of the punishments, and they have been spot on with their punishments."
"Why does Potter get to be exempt from this? He's a part of this house just like everyone else."
"Miss Weasley," Professor Burbage said. "Mr. Potter is an apprentice. As an Apprentice, he has given up Quidditch and even his status as a student of Hogwarts. He also gives up a lot of his free time to study for his Apprenticeships and has duties to perform in the hospital wing supporting Madam Pomfrey and Apprentice Delacour.
"However, he is also still considered a Gryffindor until he gains his certificate of completion."
"Professor, but he is living with his girlfriend," another student said.
"Mr. Potter and Mrs. Greengrass-Potter have a legal relationship that allows them to do so," the Professor said. "Professor McGonagall is satisfied with the legality of the relationship, and they have been warned about appropriate conduct. If the Headmistress has no complaints, then we don't have any reason to do anything about it.
"This isn't about Mr. Potter, however. This is about how all of you are breaking the rules. Even the Slytherin House has toned down many of their actions. And you have been spotted starting several fights. I am tired of that happening. The next time one of you starts a fight, I will restrict everyone to the common room for two months after we have over a hundred house points.
"The Headmistress is also tired of the fights, and she has considered suspending every person who starts a fight. And remember, suspension means that you will be stripped of your leadership duties and you may even be restricted from participating in extracurricular activities, should we resume them during your time at Hogwarts.
"Tomorrow morning, a new rule will be announced, and it will add additional punishments as the Heads of House have unanimously agreed to support to quell the increasing violations of the rules. I hope that all of you show up tomorrow for breakfast bright and early.
"So, until then, remember that you are restricted to the common room if you are not in classes, patrolling, or at meals. Any person who violates this rule will lose fifty points and gain two weeks' worth of detention, which is required for violating restrictions.
"Have a good evening and think about what has been done."
Professor Burbage left the Common Room, and Harry paused to wait until the door shut.
"I know some of you don't like how I enforce the rules," Harry said. "I'll tell you this: if it gets out that a prefect is allowing their friends or housemates to get away with breaking the rules, the prefect will be removed from their position permanently. And the prefect will be punished by losing house points and serve about a months' worth of detentions, which is enough to have suspension as the next step for violating a rule that loses twenty points or gives a week's worth of detentions.
"For me, if I violate the rules, then I lose my apprenticeship. I don't want to do that, as it can seriously impact my life. If I lose my Apprenticeship, then I can no longer remain at Hogwarts due to circumstances."
Harry paused for a moment to let that sink in.
"I don't think I have ever been so ashamed to have been a Gryffindor. And I am sure Godric himself would be ashamed of the actions members of his house take."
With those final words, Harry left the Gryffindor Common Room to return to his wife and their planned potions theory study session.
The next evening, Harry was preparing his lesson for his Defense Against the Dark Arts Study Group. It had finally gotten off the ground, and he had finally gotten time to have the lesson. He was in the Healer Apprentice Office in the hospital wing preparing his lesson for the night's first lesson.
"Mr. Potter, the Headmistress would like to speak with us," Madam Pomfrey said.
Harry put down his pen and stood up. He followed Madam Pomfrey to her office/sleeping quarters.
"Poppy, Mr. Potter, I am afraid that Albus passed away this evening. Even with the potions Miss Greengrass gave him, he was unable to continue because of the intensive damage his body had suffered."
Harry and Madam Pomfrey bowed their heads in remembrance of a great, but troubled, man. Madam Pomfrey even gave a small sniffle, and Harry looked up to see McGonagall with suspiciously moist eyes.
"Professor, do you wish for me to cancel my first lesson?"
"Yes, Mr. Potter, I do," McGonagall said. "I am going to cancel lessons for tomorrow to let people get over the shock. We will also cancel lessons when he is buried. There is going to be a memorial service here at Hogwarts Minister Bones informed me about just a few minutes ago. I will let you know more when I get the details."
McGonagall sat down in a chair and she gave a heavy sigh. Harry shook his head, as he knew Dumbledore had done so much in his life that his last troubled years would not overshadow many of his accomplishments. Harry walked up to the Headmistress and placed his hand on her shoulder in a comforting way.
"Mr. Potter," Madam Pomfrey said. "You're free to go and join Miss Greengrass until dinner. I'm sure you'll want to tell her."
Harry nodded.
"Do you wish for me to tell anyone else?"
"Please refrain from doing so, Mr. Potter," McGonagall said, softly. "I want to tell the students. You two were the last of the faculty and staff, with the exception of Miss Greengrass and Miss Delacour. I've told everyone else already."
Since there were no classes going on at the moment, all of the professors had been in their quarters or offices wrapping up duties from the day, though some would continue to do so until nightfall.
Even Harry was going to be grading a Charms homework assignment for the third years to help Professor Flitwick with his enormous workload. He also had a stack of Transfiguration assignments for the first year classes to assist Professor Middleton with her classes. All in all, having Apprenticeship duties was difficult to handle most days because of the added requirements to teach or grade papers for the professors in their fields.
After getting his lesson plans, Harry left for their quarters, where Daphne and Fleur would be studying or just chatting.
He reached their quarters a few minutes later.
"Hi Harry. You're here early," Daphne said.
"Madam Pomfrey let me go," Harry said.
"Are you ready for the lesson tonight," Daphne asked, wanting to know, as she was going to assist him.
"It's been cancelled again."
"What happened this time?" It had been cancelled last time due to the lack of a set syllabus, one that McGonagall wanted before she would allow the meeting to proceed.
"Professor Dumbledore died today," Harry said. "McGonagall cancelled classes for tomorrow, and there's going to be a memorial service here at Hogwarts soon. I'm sure it'll be this weekend, though."
The two ladies nodded, and their cheerful demeanors left them. There was nothing to be happy about right now.
On Saturday, the Wizarding World was going to gather at Hogwarts for the funeral service. Dumbledore was going to be buried at Hogwarts because of his long service to the school. The Board of Governors had allowed that since he had been removed for medical reasons. Harry dressed in his formal apprenticeship robes for the first time. Daphne had her formal robes on as well. They would sit with the Hogwarts Faculty since Apprentices were considered Staff when not in regular classes.
The formal robes were black with the Hogwarts Crest on their chest. Their sleeves carried the single golden stripes of their ranks as Apprentices. Their fields were not mentioned on the robes at all. Once they graduated to Journeyman, and they would graduate to that level at the end of the school year, they would begin to carry a thick stripe plus the insignia of their fields, which was an Asclepius for Healing, a wand shooting sparks for Charms, and an animal in the middle of transforming for Transfiguration.
The faculty wore their formal robes with their insignia. Their robes consisted of two thick stripes and the insignia of the field they taught in. A Master in the field would have a third, thin stripe above the two thick stripes. The Headmistress had four thick golden stripes, as well as the insignia of her Mastery Field. The Deputy Headmaster, Flitwick, had three thick and one thin stripes and then his insignia for his master field. A Deputy Headmaster without mastery certification would have two thick and two thin stripes. If there had been assistant professors, they would have a thick stripe and then a thin stripe under the insignia of their field.
The students wore their best school robes, as this was for a former Headmaster. The Ministry Aurors wore their dress robes and were out in force. There were also Aurors patrolling Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, St. Mungos, and the Ministry of Magic, with several strike teams prepared for a Death Eater attack during the funeral service.
When it was time to start, the students gathered in the Great Hall were led to their seats by their Heads of House, who had a cowl in their house colors to show their status as a Head of House.
Of course, for this event, the press was out in force, as was the Ministry. All of the Ministry Department Heads, along with many members of the Wizengamot, were present and seated ahead of the students. The Hogwarts Faculty were on the left, and the Ministry and Wizengamot Members were on the right, along with Dumbledore's last relative, his brother. Members of the Order of the Phoenix sat behind the Hogwarts Faculty at Aberforth's request.
A thin, bearded wizard gave a talk about Dumbledore's life, and then Minister Bones stood to speak. After she spoke about how great Dumbledore's life was, she returned to her seat and the other wizard resumed his duties.
The funeral was short and sweet, with Dumbledore's body going up in magical flames that left a white sarcophagus next to the lake. A statue in front of the sarcophagus had a phoenix rising.
Harry thought that was an appropriate symbol for Dumbledore. He was now rising from the ashes of his medical problems and the problems of this life for his next Great Adventure. Harry just hoped that he could do the same and rise above his problems and enjoy his life until he was ready for his next Great Adventure.
Once the service was over, the faculty led the students back into the castle, which was then closed to outsiders for security reasons. Daphne, Harry, and Fleur went back into the castle, ignoring the press and their calls to speak with Harry. He didn't feel like talking to the press at the moment.
Daphne couldn't see a reason why he would speak to the press. She had told him to let the politicians and Professor McGonagall take care of that part. Harry didn't want to go against what his wife wanted for something like this. She was the political one. He wasn't.
Back in the castle, Harry and Daphne returned to their quarters for a round of passionate love making, as, oddly enough, attending the funeral had made them want to show their love for the other. And it may have been something to do with the ongoing war and Harry's major role in it.
The following morning, at breakfast, Harry got a package from the Minister. He read the note attached to it while several curious people looked at him.
Dear Mr. Potter,
You and your betrothed gave me much to think about during our discussion a few days ago. I have discussed this issue with Alastor, and he gave me the same thing you have. Not all Dark spells are illegal, and some are modifications of illegal spells. The law is written in such a way that does require each banned spell to be listed individually.
Because of this, I have begun a program of instruction for the Magical Law Enforcement Squad and the prosecutors to carefully consider the charges when we wish to charge someone with using illegal magic. I have issued instructions to detain anyone who is suspected of using Dark Magic until we can interview them. If it is a clear cut of self-defense, then they will be allowed to go free with a warning to carefully consider how they use magic. If it is a clear case of using magic with the intent to harm someone, well, you get the idea.
Because of your argument, and because of the task laid out before, this package contains a few items that will help you with your task. One book is an unabridged copy of the spells, potions, and rituals that have been named illegal through the centuries. The next items are the Hit Wizard and Auror training Guides, as I feel they may contain some magic that you are not familiar with. Finally, I have included two documents. The first document gives you permission to use any spell that you deem necessary as long as you have a clear-cut reason to do so under the rules of engagement supported by law. The second document is a provisional Hit Wizard License, which will allow you to handle things more directly than a civilian is normally allowed to do, such as ambushing an attacking Death Eater force.
Please do not abuse these items, or they will be revoked.
Sincerely,
Amelia Bones,
Minister for Magic
Harry smiled as he read the letter. He had suspected Amelia might do something like this.
"What was in the letter you got with the package," Daphne asked as they left the Great Hall and headed to the hospital wing for a shift.
"Minister Bones sent me a list of illegal spells, and a few other things," Harry said, handing her the note.
Daphne read the note.
"I suspected she might do this after our discussion and her knowledge of what you want to do. I gather this is also a recruiting pitch for the Aurors."
"Probably," Harry said. "She really went out on a limb to get me these things and get a waiver for the age requirements."
"She did," Daphne said. "And she won't do it ever again if she loses trust in you."
"I don't plan on making her lose trust in me, Daphne," Harry said, as he opened the hospital wing door for her.
"I'm glad you made it," Madam Pomfrey said. "I just got word that Death Eaters are attacking Diagon Alley. With St. Mungos filled due to last night's random attacks, and the lack of staff, we're going to be taking casualties again."
Harry and Daphne shared a look before they entered their office to change into their healer apprentice robes, which were cheap and disposable when compared to their normal robes. Fleur was finishing tying her enchanted field healer boots as they entered. She nodded grimly at them and left, wand in hand, ready for the first casualties to come.
Five minutes after entering the hospital wing, Harry and Daphne were dressed in their complete field healer uniforms. The uniforms had the traditional green of a healer, with a red cross on the arm, the symbol of a field healer. The boots were charmed to be impervious to blood and other body fluids and also had climate controlling charms, as well as special soles that would allow them to get good grip on slippery floors.
Neither of them thought about the reason there was a grip charm on their boots as they grimly waited for the first casualties with a similarly dressed Madam Pomfrey.