Chapter 11
Meetings and Mad Matriarchs
Author's Note: This is a very long chapter, but I know some of my readers would be upset if I split it up at all. However, it does end with a nasty cliffhanger. Enjoy!
Edit: The Line-Breaks in this chapter are being silly. If some don't show up, it is not my fault!
Previously...
Madam Bones cleared her throat rather loudly and Harry jumped and turned to her.
"Well, then, Mr. Potter," she said, "It seems you and I have much to discuss."
August 4th, 1991
Harry wasn't sure how to respond. Indeed he had much to discuss with Madam Bones. He didn't even know where to begin. He looked to Holly for guidance, but she only smiled encouragingly. That didn't help much. The way Amelia was looking at him, he knew this was how criminals must have felt when being interrogated by someone like her. A sense of being trapped.
Fortunately, Ragnok seemed to sense Harry's anxiety. "Madam Bones, if you may, I believe I may be of some assistance in this discussion as well. If your young ward can occupy herself for a while we can begin."
"I would suggest Susan get to know Miss Evans," Amelia said, "But something tells me this young lady is as much a part of this discussion as Harry is."
"I brought one of my school books along, Auntie," Susan said, "I will be alright."
"Excellent," Ragnok said; he snapped his fingers, and the table he sat at expanded into a large table. Amelia led Harry and Holly over to it and they sat down.
"I suppose we should begin this discussion with what has already been briefly discussed," Amelia said, "The first being Sirius Black, and the second this business with the false Will and Lord Potter's seemingly illegal guardianship over the past nigh-on ten years. Keeper Ragnok, if I may request some writing material to take notes?"
Ragnok snapped his fingers and parchment, quills and ink appeared on the table.
"These so-called False Wills," Amelia said, "Obviously someone very high up in the ranks of the Ministry created such a travesty. They had enough persuasion in order to cause no doubt amongst the people they talked to."
"I find it quite obvious as to who created the False Wills, Madam Bones," Holly said, "He went so far as to implicate himself in the crime. It is as if he was so confident of himself not getting caught, he didn't see any reason not to give himself the title. Harry's so-called magical guardian..."
"Albus Dumbledore," Amelia muttered, "I can hardly believe it."
"You can hardly believe it, because he has made it so," Holly said, "The world knows him as the Leader of the Light. However, here is proof of a crime he committed. Falsifying a Will."
"There is very little proof as to it being him, young lady," Amelia said. "We need a motive to begin with."
Holly laughed. "We have plenty of motive. The question is... how much will you believe? We'll start with the easiest. Keeper Ragnok, who was the sole witness to both of the Wills of Harry's parents being written?"
"Albus Dumbledore," Ragnok said.
"He knew Harry's parents stated that he shouldn't live with his Muggle relatives," Holly said, "And yet he sent him there anyway. Harry is emancipated, and we have reason to believe Dumbledore wants Harry to go back to his relatives anyway!"
"Lord Potter," Amelia said, "You said you've only known about the magical world for a few days now?"
"Since my birthday," Harry said, "Rubeus Hagrid found me and informed me that I'm a wizard, then he took me to Diagon Alley where I met Holly. We came here to Gringotts, where I opened my parents' Wills and became Emancipated."
"Did you receive any post from our world during your stay with the Muggles?" Amelia asked.
"School letters," Harry said, "A whole bunch of them. I received the first one a week before my birthday, but my relatives took it away from me before I could open it. Then more and more letters came, but I never opened a single one."
"That is very odd," Amelia said, "Only one letter is supposed to be sent to the students. Those letters are on automatic owl post service. Numerous letters – well, that has never been heard of, but obviously whoever did it knew where you lived. And that is where it gets strange. No one questioned your residency with your Muggle guardians. In fact, the only thing anyone knew, Harry – if I may call you such – is that you lived with Muggles. The Ministry had no official address. The reason I asked whether you received post is because – well – frankly, Harry, you are very famous and have been for going on ten years now."
"I don't want to be famous!" Harry said.
"I get that, I do," Amelia said, smiling softly, "To a few of us, those of us who were friends of James and Lily, Halloween is not something to be celebrated when it comes to that particular reason for such celebrations. Most of the wizarding world celebrate the downfall of... Voldemort. Most of them don't remember it as the night that two good people died protecting their child. They only see that night as one in which a baby defeated Voldemort. Which is why you're famous. Now, to my point. I know for a fact that my niece sent you at least three or four letters over the years. Mostly on your birthdays."
Harry blushed and looked at Susan. Thankfully, she was so engrossed with her book she did not hear her Aunt's revelation of her secret.
"She is just one of hundreds of people who sent you letters," Amelia said, "And you received none of them?"
"No, ma'am," Harry said.
"Well, that points to a Post-repelling ward keyed to your name," Amelia said, with a sigh. "However, the school letters would have had to override such a ward. So, that gives more evidence to Dumbledore."
"We also have more damning evidence toward Dumbledore, Madam Bones," Ragnok said. "Over the past nigh-on ten years, G150,000 have been stolen from Lord Potter's Trust Vault."
"Holy Merlin," Amelia gasped. "By whom?"
"G50,000 went to Lord Potter's Muggle guardians," Ragnok said. "Lord Potter informed me that none of that money was spent on him."
Amelia looked at Harry, who nodded his confirmation.
"G50,000 went to Albus Dumbledore and probably his so-called secret Order," Ragnok said, "And the final G50,000 went to Molly Prewett Weasley. A few days after that fateful Halloween, Molly Weasley and Albus Dumbledore put together a Betrothal Contract between Lord Potter and Ginevra Weasley, the latter barely a few months old at the time. The contract is unofficial, due to the fact that Albus Dumbledore falsely signed the contract as being Harry Potter's magical guardian. G50,000 was the bride price for the contract."
"A Bride Price is supposed to go the family of the bride when said bride is old enough to marry!" Amelia said, "Not when she's a baby!"
"Indeed," Ragnok said, "And yet, for the past ten years, Molly Weasley has received G5,000 a year from Harry's trust vault. This money was being removed from the vault by a Goblin we recently discovered to be a traitor."
"That was the reason you closed the bank temporarily," Amelia said, "To deal with the traitor."
"Indeed," Ragnok agreed. "At ten-o-clock, Molly Weasley will be here in the belief that she is supposed to receive Inheritance from a Will Reading. In truth, I am going to meet her to discuss her part in this theft of the money from Lord Potter. If you wish, Madam Bones, you can be a part of the discussion."
"I think I can agree to that," Amelia said.
"Also," Ragnok said, "I wish for you to be of some assistance when it comes to Lord Potter's Muggle guardians. Lord Potter had an appointment with our Healers, and we found some serious signs of abuse toward him."
Amelia looked toward Harry with horror etched on her face, and tears shining in her eyes. Harry could only stare at his lap. Holly took his hand in hers, and he looked up at her with a smile.
"Gringotts believes child abuse deserves hard justice," Ragnok said, "However, due to this being Muggles, it is a touchy subject. Right now, we can only deal with the financial aspect. Admittedly, we need your help with the other half of the investigation."
"It will be done," Amelia said, as she jotted down some notes on her parchment. "So... Albus Dumbledore, Molly Weasley, the Dursleys. The latter two will be fairly easy to deal with. Albus Dumbledore – if you think we can just bring him to justice, you seriously underestimate the man. I'd consider myself lucky if he was removed from the ICW and the Wizengamot. But those two and his role as Headmaster. I'd need to overdose on Luck Potion to become that lucky."
"Harry and I believe we can deal with Dumbledore when it comes to him being a Headmaster," Holly said, "however, we wish to keep that a secret for now. It is a secret weapon of ours we wish to unleash at a later date."
Amelia raised her eyebrows, and looked back and forth between Holly and Harry. Then she sighed and nodded.
"Good luck," she said, "I have enough on my plate to deal with." She sighed deeply, and Harry thought he saw an inkling of tears in her eyes "Which brings us to Sirius Black. I was fairly young and only an apprentice in my department back when Sirius was arrested, but I do not remember there being a trial for him."
"You're saying he never received a trial?" Harry asked, outraged at this serious breach of justice.
"I may be wrong," Amelia said, "I will have to check. However, if there was, he would have never gone to Azkaban. The Godfather Ritual is enough proof to free him of at least the whole Secret Keeper thing. Then they would give him Veritaserum. There seems to be a serious breach of justice here. Rest assured I will be looking into this as soon as possible. I may even bring it to Cornelius Fudge himself! However, Ragnok, I will need a copy of the Will. It needs to be released into the open, at least for the trial, for proof."
Ragnok looked from Amelia to Harry. "It is your decision, Lord Potter."
"Anything to help my godfather, Madam Bones," Harry said.
Amelia smiled. "It will be done. Are there any more revelations that will stop my heart today?"
"I assume you know Alastor Moody fairly well?" Holly asked.
"Quite well," Amelia said, "I was his boss for three years until he retired."
"What would you say if I told you that he is in Diagon Alley right now?" Holly asked. "We believe he is here for Harry. We also believe Albus Dumbledore sent him to track Harry down and bring him back to the Dursleys."
Amelia frowned. "Alastor Moody may be the best Auror the Auror Department ever had. He is a hell of a fighter. He is tough, he never backs down, and he is highly paranoid, thanks to his many years on the job. He and Albus Dumbledore fought together in the Grindelwald War. That made them very good friends. Asking him to leave the Auror force due to fear of him injuring himself beyond repair was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. And you say he is probably waiting for Harry to step outside this bank?"
"Yep," Holly said simply.
"Why don't you just take a Portkey out of here without even stepping foot back into the Alley?" Amelia asked, "I know full well that Goblins can make Portkeys for its favored customers, and the Ministry could do nothing about it, because this is a sovereign nation."
"Because we had plans to do some shopping after we leave Gringotts," Harry said, "And I will not be forced from my plans by some Ministry malcontent!"
Amelia laughed. "You are as stubborn as your father, Harry."
"Thank you, I think," Harry said.
Amelia sighed. "Right. I assume you are taking part in this meeting with Molly Weasley, Harry?"
"I will at least be a secret witness she won't know about, unless I want to be a part of it," Harry said.
"I believe I know what you are referring to, and I volunteer to be a part of it," Amelia said. "Afterward, when you leave Gringotts... well, I believe I have a plan to trap the paranoid old man even he won't see coming. However... I must ask if this is wise."
"You said Moody never backs down," Holly said. "We need to give him a reason to do so. We need to tell him Harry is Emancipated, therefore he no longer is required to live with his guardians, and that is if we ignore the whole 'do not send him to the Dursleys!' part of the Will. Once he realizes Harry has no reason to go back to the Dursleys, he will back down."
"I hope you're correct," Amelia said, "Is that all?"
"One more thing," Harry said, "Do you know the name of a good solicitor? Those damnable Harry Potter books need to disappear... soon!"
Amelia laughed. "I don't blame you. Why anyone, even a child, would believe a toddler can tame a Nundu, which cannot be tamed by the way, is beyond me! Yes, I know a good solicitor. Ted Tonks, of Abernathy, Prewett and Tonks."
"Prewett?" Harry asked with a grimace.
"The Prewett in question is a relation of Molly Weasley," Amelia said, "But he is a Squib, and – well – let's just say Molly probably does her best to avoid him and go with that. Anyway, Ted Tonks is a wonderful man. Muggleborn – in fact if I remember correctly he married one of Sirius Black's cousins. The good cousin, as a matter of fact. Their daughter is enrolling into Brighton Academy – the best Auror Corp in England – in September. Hmm... I might have something to offer Ol' Mad-Eye. Maybe it will keep him busy and stop him from stalking young boys."
Holly snorted, Ragnok chuckled and Harry only rolled his eyes.
"Anyway," Amelia said, "The solicitors in question have a place in Diagon Alley, a few buildings down from Ollivander's Wand shop."
"Sounds like another place we'll be going today," Harry said.
"If that is all for now," Ragnok said, "It is nearly time for Mrs. Weasley to arrive. We need to set you up in the meeting room beforehand. Ah, Madam Bones, here is your Inheritance from James Potter."
Amelia smiled as she picked up the crème colored folders. "I wonder what your father found, Harry. We'll have to see."
"If it helps bring just one of the bad guys in," Harry said, "Then I reckon my father did well with whatever you find."
"I agree," Amelia said. "Let us go then. This day just continues to get better and better!"
Harry laughed, unsure whether she was being sarcastic or serious, and the occupants of the room stood and left, ready for whatever the day brought next.
Meanwhile, Neville Longbottom was currently in another room in Gringotts, sitting at a table beside his Gran. He was nervous about what was going to take place. All he knew, from what his Gran told him, was that he would be taking an Inheritance Test. Apparently the Test had been suggested by the Goblins! From what he knew of the Goblins, they hardly ever cared about the affairs of humans, so to be here on special request of a Goblin was quite surprising!
But this wasn't his first surprise of the day. So much had already happened. He had met Lord Harry Potter, who was apparently his godbrother! How many years had he spent alone in Longbottom Manor wishing for a sibling that would never come? His parents were incapacitated, and probably would never be cured, though Neville was hopeful and would be as long as his parents were alive. But the fact that the famous Harry Potter considered him family was amazing.
Then there was the fact that his godmother, the late Lily Potter, had given him G15,000, all of which belonged to him. He could buy whatever he wanted, maybe even build a new greenhouse in the back of Longbottom Manor, and put some plants he only ever dreamed of in there! Maybe he could also buy himself his own wand. He was grateful for the fact that his Gran had given him something that was once his father's, but the wand just didn't feel right in his hands. He needed his own.
Sure, his Gran would probably tell him to let the money sit and take interest, but this was something that belonged to him. He could do whatever he wanted with it. His godmother had given it to him for that purpose.
His thoughts were interrupted by footsteps and Neville turned to see a familiar Goblin walk into the room. Neville had accompanied his Gran many times over recent years to Gringotts. She said she wanted him to learn about the bank and taking care of finances. The first time she had told him they'd be going to Gringotts, he spent a week in the Longbottom Manor library reading and studying Goblin customs, scared out of his skin that he would offend the Goblins! So, suffice it to say, he knew this Goblin, Keeper Breakfist very well.
"Greetings Madam Longbottom, Heir Neville," Breakfist said, as he sat down across from them, "Apologies for my late arrival. A Keeper's day is very busy."
"Apology accepted," Augusta said. "Keeper Ragnok's letter stated that you requested an Inheritance Test for Neville?"
"Indeed," Breakfist said, "Sadly because Neville's dear parents are incapacitated, Gringotts tradition states that on a wand-wielder's eleventh birthday, or soon after, they are to take an Inheritance Test if their parents are deceased or incapable of being their guardians. Because, Madam Longbottom, your are only a Guardian of Neville, tradition still stands here."
"Very well then," Augusta said, though Neville could hear something odd in her voice, "Let's get it over with."
Neville shuddered when Breakfist turned to him and smiled. The Goblin always frightened him, though he knew the fear was irrational. He could not help it. Those teeth were scary! Breakfist snapped his fingers, making Neville jump slightly as a piece of parchment and knife appeared in front of him. The parchment seemed to be glowing.
"You are familiar with the Blood Blade, Heir Longbottom?" Breakfist asked.
"Y-yes," Neville said, remembering his studies, "It's – err – only legal on Gringotts Nation soil, and only to be used in tests such as this."
"Very good," Breakfist said. "Take the knife and slice open the palm of the hand you hold a wand with. Then proceed to drip the blood over the parchment. Do not fret, young Neville, it will not hurt, and it will heal good as new afterward."
Neville shivered as he picked up the blade, and tried to steel himself. He carefully sliced open his hand and hovered it palm down over the parchment. The blood dripped onto the parchment, which glowed a golden-red. Neville dropped the blade and felt his hand heal.
"Take a look, young man," Breakfist said, as he motioned to the parchment.
Neville bent over the parchment and began to read:
Inheritance Test – Neville Francis Longbottom
DOB: 30 July 1980
Parents: Francis (Frank) Herbert Longbottom and Alice Caroline Smith
Official Titles of Lineage:
Ancient and Noble Houses:
House Longbottom – direct descendant – father
House Smith – second-in-line – mother
House Hufflepuff – Heir, direct descendant – mother
Below this were the vault numbers Neville now owned, including one of the first five Vaults created in Gringotts over a thousand years ago. Obscene amounts of galleons, as well as other objects, and titles of land and properties – both residential and business, the latter of which had many recognizable names in Diagon and Knockturn Alley were listed.
Neville was shocked – shocked – to find that he was the direct Heir of the House of Hufflepuff, one of the Founders of Hogwarts! Before that moment, he feared to be placed into Hufflepuff, but now it seemed like it was the proper House to be Sorted into! He also found that he was quarter-owner of Hogwarts, the school he was about to attend!
Below this information, there was more to be read.
Status: Emancipated – Suggested Mentor: Augusta Cordella Longbottom
Miscellaneous:
Magical Core: Blocked – currently at twenty-five percent of suggested level.
"Congratulations, Neville Longbottom," Breakfist said, "Or should I say, Heir Hufflepuff."
Neville's Gran gasped softly, and Neville turned to her. She seemed to be looking at him as if she had never seen him before. He couldn't identify the expressions on her face at all. He had never seen her react this way.
"It should be noted that the other three Heirs of the Founders were discovered only recently as well," Breakfist said, "Though the House of Slytherin is right-by-conquest. Coincidentally you met both of the Heirs earlier today: Harry Potter, the Heir of Gryffindor and Heir of Slytherin, right-by-conquest. He is also second-in-line for Heir of Ravenclaw. Holly Evans is direct Heir of Ravenclaw. Combined, the three of you own Hogwarts, and could work wonders with such titles."
"I was under the assumption that the girl is of the Minor House of Evans," Augusta said, "A Muggleborn witch."
"Rowena Ravenclaw had two children – one was a Squib and as such is hardly spoken of in the history books," Breakfist said, "The magical line survived and witches and wizards were born though there were also more Squibs. Squibs mate with Muggles, and their offspring are referred to as Muggle, but the magical line continues, and it produced Lily Evans and the young Holly Evans. Holly is older than Harry and as such direct Heir by right of birth."
"Well then," Augusta said, "It seems a dinner meeting with the two children is much more important now!"
"I am under the assumption that the Founders' Heirs wish to keep their identities secret until the proper time in which they can use their titles wisely," Breakfist said, "As such, I advise you to keep it out of public ears and only discuss it with the Heirs."
"I would never betray such promising young potential Allies," Augusta said, "Now... this says Neville's magical core was blocked?"
"Yes," Breakfist said, "Probably when he was but a child. Healers should have caught this when Neville went to appointments as a young child, but it seems they never did. Our Goblin Healers can supply three potions for Neville, to be drunk once a week over the next three weeks. However, Heir of Hufflepuff, you must exercise daily and practice magic spells weekly during the intake of these potions, otherwise the blockage will harm you."
Neville gulped and nodded. "I want to take the treatment, Gran."
"Very well," Augusta said.
"Madam Longbottom," Breakfist said, "I sense Neville's wand on him, but that it once belonged to his father. This is unacceptable if he is to undergo treatment for his core. He requires a wand of his own, one from perhaps Ollivander."
Augusta frowned and nodded. "It will be done. We will go to Ollivander's when we finish here. Is there anything else?"
"Yes," Breakfist said, then snapped his fingers and a steel briefcase appeared in front of them. "For many years, one of Helga Hufflepuff's ancient artifacts was missing. It has recently been found and I think it is appropriate for the Heir to take ownership of this heirloom, if only to return it to Hogwarts at the proper time. This briefcase has been attuned by Goblin magic to open to a specific bloodline, in this case the House of Hufflepuff. Heir Longbottom, place your wand-hand palm down on top of the briefcase. As direct Heir of Hufflepuff it will only open for you."
Neville did as was requested, placing his hand palm-down on the briefcase. He jumped a bit when two mechanical sounds were heard, and two locks opened on the edge of the briefcase. Neville lifted his hand and the briefcase opened. Inside, set carefully on top of a yellow-and-black foam-like substance was a golden goblet. Etched into the metal of the goblet was a badger, the mascot of Hufflepuff.
"This goblet is rumored to enhance Healing Potions tenfold," Breakfist said, "Helga Hufflepuff was a renowned Healer as well as teacher – in fact she was the part-time Matron during her time at Hogwarts. Her lessons in Healing have been passed down to the present human Healers to this very day."
Neville shivered as a thought ran through his mind. "Would this artifact be capable of – of healing my parents?"
"Neville!" Augusta scolded.
"It is possible," Breakfist said, "Not even Goblin Healers could cure your parents, but an artifact such as this? As I said... perhaps it could be done, but do not put all your hope on such a dream, young Heir."
Neville nodded, but he was still resolute. "My Aunt Smythe is a Healer at St. Mungo's. She has dedicated herself to helping my parents. She may know how to unleash the power from this artifact."
"Breakfist has requested you keep your heritage secret for now, Neville," Augusta said, "I think we should respect that."
"I will discuss it with Lord Potter when he comes for dinner, Gran," Neville said. "I think he would agree with me on this – Mum is his godmother after all."
Augusta frowned, but said nothing.
"I wish to take this artifact home, Keeper Breakfist," Neville said. "If you have something I can carry it in – something that has protective enchantments only I could pass – I wish to purchase it."
Breakfist smiled. "I will have it available after your visit to our Healers."
"Thank you, Keeper Breakfist," Neville said.
"You're welcome, Heir Longbottom," Breakfist said. "One last thing: it is time to claim your Head of House Ring. At the moment, you may only claim the Longbottom ring. When you set foot on Hogwarts soil, your Hufflepuff ring will appear on your hand."
"The Longbottom ring is currently at our Manor," Augusta said, "We will retrieve it then."
"No matter," Breakfist said, "As official Head of House, Neville can summon it as soon as he gives the official vow. Trust your voice, Heir Longbottom, and speak the words."
Neville inhaled and exhaled. "I, Neville Francis Longbottom, Direct descendant of the House of Longbottom, accept the role as Head of the Family in all its glory and whatever trials the title may come with.. So mote it be!"
Neville's eyes widened as a large platinum ring settled on the ring finger of his right hand. In the center of the ring was the family crest – a wolf and two roses.
"Excellent!" Breakfist said, "If you ever hear whispers coming from your ring, listen to them. It is your ancestors giving you advice as Head of House. I believe we are finished with this meeting. Do you wish to visit one of your vaults before your appointment with our Healers. Unfortunately the Hufflepuff Vault only opens with the ring, so you can't visit it at the moment."
"I would like to visit my Trust Vault," Neville said; he wanted to see the new fortune he had been given. He wanted to use his own money to buy his wand.
Very well," Breakfist said, "We are finished here."
Neville nodded, stood and followed his Gran and Breakfist out of the room. He didn't know how, but he somehow felt more confident than he had this morning. Perhaps it was his new titles, or the new possibility he may be able to help his parents. Whatever it was, he felt like a new boy, or rather, young man.. And it felt good!
Molly Weasley was currently sitting in a room at Gringotts, alongside her husband Arthur and eldest son William. It had been many years since she had been at the Will Reading of her late father, but she swore that during that particular Reading, it was held deeper into the confines of Gringotts then this. Also, she knew that Will Readings were attended by several people. Sure, there were a number of empty chairs in the room, but no one else had arrived yet. And it was nigh-on ten-o-clock. The indecency of people not to show up early!
Or maybe... perhaps... this inheritance was only meant for her and her family. Perhaps that meant she would get more than she had assumed? How wonderful! She was worried about her future funds, especially since Dumbledore had stated this would be the final year she'd receive money from the contract she had signed so long ago. Before too long she would have to dig into that money she had saved up over the past ten years or so, though she knew she would have to be careful with such money. Perhaps this inheritance would help her ease the money out of her personal vault without notice from too many suspecting people.
The door of the room opened, and a number of Goblins walked into the room. Molly recognized two of the Goblins – Panhandle, the Prewett Vault Keeper, and Ashwind, the Weasley Vault Keeper. While four of the Goblins sat down across the table from Molly, Arthur and William, the others stood. Molly noticed that the Goblins who were standing looked quite large and brutish.
The Goblins began introducing themselves, and Molly was surprised at the identity of the other two. One introduced himself as the Vault Keeper of the Dumbledore family Was Albus going to be in attendance? The other, however, introduced himself as Ragnok the Sixth. Goblin royalty, the heir to the throne, right there in front of Molly! How exciting!
"Are we the only ones expected here today?" Molly asked, "Usually there is more people in the audience for a Will Reading."
Molly noticed a couple of the Goblins grinning rather oddly. Panhandle's face was etched with a grin. A couple of the larger goblins were snickering.
"I am afraid this is not a Will Reading, Mrs. Weasley," Panhandle said. "We at Gringotts have recently started an investigation into some crimes regarding some of our Vaults."
"Crimes?" Molly asked, "The Daily Prophet said there had been a break-in! Did our Vaults get robbed?"
Molly was confused. Her son, William, had told her she and Arthur were summoned for a Reading!
"There was an attempted break-in," Ragnok stated, "But that has nothing to do with the crimes being discussed in this meeting. This theft has been going on for ten years, and has only been discovered recently! We have already brought swift justice to the traitorous Goblin in question."
"This sounds quite serious," Arthur said, "Has the Ministry been involved with this?"
"A Ministry representative is in the building as we speak," Ragnok said, "If her presence here is needed, we can summon her."
"What does this have to do with us?" Arthur asked.
Ragnok snapped his fingers and a large crème colored folder appeared on the table. The Goblin removed a piece of parchment from the folder and laid it in front of Molly. Molly glanced at it, and her eyes widened in horror. This piece of parchment was supposed to be kept locked up for a few more years! Albus had promised!
Molly was so horrified that she didn't even notice Arthur glance at the parchment until it was too late.
"Molly, what is this?!" Arthur asked, his voice louder than usual, "A Betrothal Contract? Between... Ginny... and... Harry Potter?!"
"You were unaware of this contract, Arthur?" Keeper Ashwind asked.
"I knew nothing of this!" Arthur said, "What is this, Molly?!"
Molly inhaled and exhaled as she thought of what she would do. Then she realized... yes, she could reveal the information she had been hiding. By the end of the day, it would not matter. Arthur would not remember this conversation, nor anything to do with the contract. All it would take was a few steps. She had done it before...
"Ten years ago," Molly said, "Albus Dumbledore came to our house. He told me he was the new magical guardian for Harry Potter. He sat me down and gave me an offer I could hardly refuse. Could you imagine, Arthur? Our daughter marrying Harry Potter? The family name would return to its former glory. Albus promised me that when it came time, we could meet Ginny's future husband, and get to know him. The boy has been raised by Muggles. He needs a good wizarding family! We're all about family."
"A Betrothal?" Arthur asked, "Molly, this was written when Ginny was a baby! These things should be her choice, not ours!"
"Betrothal Contracts have always been the choice of the parents, Arthur!" Molly said, "It is tradition."
"Something you are well informed of, Molly Prewett," Panhandle said. "You were, of course, under a Betrothal Contract with Amos Diggory before it was breached."
"What?" Arthur asked, "You never told me this!"
Molly could scream! She trusted that filthy Goblin who called himself her family's Keeper, and now he reveals this out loud! These were secrets she wanted flushed away never to be spoken of."
"My parents made the contract," Molly said, "I didn't want it. So it was breached."
This was another lie, however. Molly would have loved to marry Amos Diggory. She had known the man since they were children. She had fancied him during their years at Hogwarts. But she had also fancied Arthur. The Betrothal Contract stated that she was to marry Amos a month after she finished her education at Hogwarts. However, she became pregnant with William after a memorable night on the Astronomy Tower on Valentine's Day of that year. Her parents discovered the pregnancy, canceled the contract in danger of breaching it, and demanded she marry Arthur.
"Much like that contract," Panhandle said, "This contract between your daughter and Harry Potter is breached as well. In fact, it was never official to begin with."
"What?!" Molly screeched, "Such rubbish! Albus Dumbledore said -"
"Ah, and that is the gist of it, Mrs. Weasley," Ragnok said. "You see, Albus Dumbledore was never Harry Potter's magical guardian. He falsified Mr. Potter's parents' Wills, and lied to everyone stating he was made Harry's guardian. This was discovered very recently when the Potter's Wills were opened. There is also another issue here, Mrs. Weasley. The bride price labeled here. You seem to be well-informed about Betrothal Contracts, Mr. Weasley. Tell me... when is a bride price supposed to be enacted?"
"Shortly before the contracted pair is to be married," Arthur said.
Molly's eyes widened. Suddenly, pieces begin to click into her mind. Warning signs were going off in her brain. She needed to stop this. She needed to leave. This was a trap!
"Indeed," Ragnok said, "However -"
"Stop!" Molly growled.
"Molly Prewett Weasley," Ragnok growled back, "Calm yourself or you will face more damning consequences then you are facing today."
Molly narrowed her eyes and looked at her husband and son. Arthur was glaring at her, though she would take care of that later. William, however, the look on his face was something she had seen on many of her children over the years when they knew they were in trouble. The look of guilt.
"What did you do, William Arthur Weasley?" Molly demanded, "You informed us this was a Will Reading."
"I am sorry, mother," William said, "This is out of my hands. You stole money from Harry Potter."
"What?!" Arthur asked, "Is he right? Did you steal money?"
"The bride price, Arthur," Molly said.
"That money would have gone to us if Harry Potter agreed with the contract," Arthur said, "and it wouldn't have come for a few years yet. However, the contract was null to begin with, it appears. How much money did she steal?"
"G50,000 – G5,000 a year for ten years," Ragnok said.
"Merlin!" Arthur swore.
"Dumbledore stole it from the Vault!" Molly said, "He gave me the money."
"Seventy-five percent of the stolen funds are still directly accountable, Arthur," Panhandle said, "It is still in the Prewett Vault and will be given back to Lord Potter."
"The other twenty-five percent?" Arthur asked.
"The children needed to go to Hogwarts, Arthur," Molly said, "To walk the same halls we did, to experience the same things, to learn from the greatest educators in Britain! I could not have my children going to a second-hand school learning low-grade education!"
"Tuition money," Arthur muttered. "Stolen money paid for schooling. Our children will be kicked out of Hogwarts –!"
"Not so fast, Arthur," Ragnok said, "A benefactor has made an offer to assist your children with their schooling. He has done it with the goodness of his heart, when he definitely did not need to do this."
"Who?" Arthur said.
"Me," a boy's voice said behind Molly.
Molly, Arthur and William turned around. Molly's eyes widened at whom she saw. The boy looked exactly like the young man she had taken a fancy for, for some years before his tragic death. The boy looked just like his father, James. Harry Potter was standing there in the room. The Boy-Who-Lived! Molly narrowed her eyes when she noticed the boy was holding the hand of a young girl beside him. She reminded Molly somewhat of that tart Lily Evans. She never liked the fact that James Potter had fallen in love and married a Muggleborn. He had tainted his ancient bloodline! How could he, when purebloods were being wiped from the earth little by little!
Molly then noticed the woman standing near them: Madam Amelia Bones, the Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Her presence did not mean good things.
"Mr. Potter," Arthur said, getting to his feet, "An honor it is to meet you. I wasn't aware you had returned to the wizarding world."
"It is Lord Potter, sir," Harry said, "I was recently emancipated and have become the Head of my House."
Emancipated! Head of House! This was something Molly could use against the boy. Albus Dumbledore had been searching for the boy for a few days now. The boy must have met with Amelia Bones and this – this girl he was currently clinging to when he visited Diagon Alley. Molly didn't know who this young tart was, because she was not the daughter of dearly departed Edgar and Sara Bones. Their daughter, Susan, was standing near Amelia.
Molly then noticed the young girl narrow her eyes in her direction.
"Keeper Ragnok?" the girl said.
"Yes, Lady Evans?" Ragnok said.
Lady Evans? Of course! The tart was somehow related to Harry's mother! Probably a Muggleborn, and the Goblin had called her a Lady! What rubbish was this?!
"Could you enact the Goblin's Vow of Secrecy on everyone in this room?" the girl said, "I know Harry wouldn't want certain information getting out of this room and into untrustworthy ears."
Ragnok smiled. "It is done, Lady Evans."
"Now hold on a minute!" Molly growled, "Secrecy Vows are supposed to be verbal! I did not agree to this!"
"Your Wand-wielder Vows are verbal, Mrs. Weasley," Ragnok said, "A Goblin's Vow of Secrecy is Goblin magic, and is an Area Spell. Nothing revealed in here can be given out to someone without the permission of those who give the information.
Molly almost screamed! That Mudblood tart! She must have somehow read her mind! The tart knew what she was thinking, that she wanted to give this information to Albus!
"Can we continue, Keeper Ragnok?" Harry asked, "I do not wish to be here all day."
"Of course, Lord Potter," Ragnok said.
"Mr. Weasley,' Harry said, "I have been watching the current proceedings, and have heard the honest shock in your voice. I know you had nothing to do with the crimes against my Family."
"I would volunteer a Vow of Honor on my word, Lord Potter," Arthur said.
"It is not needed, but thank you just the same," Harry said. "Your children should not suffer for these actions. They had no knowledge that the money used for their education was stolen. I have, out of the goodness of my heart, accepted only the money that is currently accounted for. The rest of the money which had been spent on your children's education can remain as such. I know your two youngest would suffer needlessly from this. As long as they show the same respect to me as you are currently showing, Mr. Weasley, their education tuition will be given as a scholarship. I cannot reveal how this will be done, but I assure you it will be done."
"I could never ask you to do this, Lord Potter," Arthur said, "But I accept it anyway, with my eternal gratitude. I assure you I will get to the bottom of this. As Head of the Minor House of Weasley. I give you my word."
"I accept it, Mr. Weasley," Harry said.
Arthur bowed his head respectfully toward Harry, then looked at Molly with another glare. Molly could only stare silently, but inside she was laughing. Harry Potter had somehow given her children a scholarship! Her daughter was going to fall in love with him all over again. She knew she could use this. She just had to survive this day unharmed.
"Albus Dumbledore took the money from the Potter Trust Vault and gave it to me," she said, "Had I known it was illegal to do so, had I known the contract was breached, I would have not used the money. I gladly return that which is accounted for in my Vault, and I thank Lord Potter for his gratitude shown toward myself and my family, though I feel I have not earned it. I fear I have been swindled by a man I thought I could trust."
"Be that as it may," Amelia Bones said, "I will be investigating this thoroughly myself. Expect a meeting with me in the future, Mrs. Weasley. I will get to the bottom of this."
Molly could only nod, but inside she was shivering. Amelia was young, but one of the toughest witches she had ever come across. She could only hope she could find a way past this. Dumbledore had to do something! He always knew what to do!
"Very well," Ragnok said, "This meeting is over. The funds accounted for which were stolen from Lord Potter will be returned. Also, the Prewett Vault is to be closed, and any belongings there transferred to the House of Weasley Vault."
Molly harrumphed silently. She knew she could say nothing if she wanted to walk out on her own two feet. She no longer had her personal vault, but as long as she was the matriarch of the Weasleys, she would still have the control. She would take care of this tonight.
"Very well," Harry said, "Thank you, Keeper Ragnok for your services today. We will just be going now. Feel free to contact me if you need anything."
"I will, and I return the sentiments, Lord Potter," Ragnok said.
Molly watched as Harry left hand-in-hand with that red-headed Muggleborn tart. She couldn't be sure, but she thought the Mudblood had a fancy for the boy. A disgrace! It seemed the girl was somehow related to the boy and her knickers probably still twisted at the thought of him. Well, she wouldn't have that. No Muggleborn would marry into the line of Potter again if she had her way. The Potter line needed a pureblood back in the house. Harry Potter needed a motherly figure again, now that his own mother was gone. Molly knew she had many pieces to play on the chessboard, but she would play her part!
"Come Molly, Bill," Arthur said, as he stood, "We have much to discuss at home."
Molly stood, hoping to leave the bank and these horrible creatures as fast as she could. She had things to deal with at home. She had to get things back under her control! She would survive this day with her dignity and secrets intact!
Meanwhile, Harry and Holly were also making their way out of the bank, well intent on beginning their shopping for the day. It had been a very memorable day so far, the most recent event just as memorable as the first.
He had been watching the meeting with the Weasleys taking place, from the secluded room adjoining the meeting room, his mind filled with thoughts. He had been surprised when Arthur Weasley had accompanied his wife, and feared that the man had also had implications into the crimes. But as the meeting progressed, he had heard the man's solemn words and realized he had been a victim too right along with most of his family. He had known nothing of the crimes his wife had done; he had been shocked this his daughter was betrothed, and had been since she was in diapers. Yes, Mr. Weasley was innocent.
Molly Weasley, however, was anything but innocent. Harry could see this. He could almost see the crocodile tears falling from her face when she 'apologized' to him for her crimes. Obviously she was silently plotting things in her mind, while making those apologies. That was why Harry had expressly stated he would help the Weasley children as long as they proved to show the same respect of their father, and not the attitude their mother had shown. Harry feared for the children however. He had faced years of abuse, especially mental and verbal abuse to see the signs of an abuser. Molly Weasley was dealing a heavy-handed education to her children. Harry wondered exactly what he would find when he met some of the Weasley children come September. He knew it might not be good.
He had internally thanked Holly when she requested for the Goblin's Vow of Secrecy. The fact that he had revealed his Emancipation and Head of House status to such a dishonest woman who seemed to be an ally of Albus Dumbledore, that was quite the risk. He knew Holly must have used her Legilimency skills and had seen something dishonest in the woman's mind. Dumbledore would receive no tips from Molly Weasley about Harry's status, that was for sure.
As Harry and Holly stepped outside the bank, they were immediately met by a man. He had scars on his face, hands and arms, and probably elsewhere as well. He also had a fake eye that seemed to move on its own in the man's socket. The man leaned on a staff, owing to his fake leg, but this was not a weakness. He looked mighty confident as he stared at Harry with a lopsided smile.
"You must be Harry Potter," the man said, "You are a tough fellow to track down, but I always find who I am looking for. My name is Alastor Moody. Nice to make your acquaintance."
I warned you there was a cliffhanger coming!
Uh-oh, trouble is brewing. But who is actually in trouble? Nothing is as it seems!
Next chapter: An encounter with Mad-Eye Moody, a visit to the Solicitors, and a bit more shopping.
Also Molly Weasley continues to plot! The Mad Matriarch of the Weasleys will not go down without a fight! This is a woman whom, in another universe, destroyed Bellatrix Lestrange. She must have quite a bit of gusto hidden under those sleeves of her!
Hope you liked this chapter! Many storylines beginning in this chapter! Also, I have absolutely no idea when the kids will get to Hogwarts. August is going to be a pretty long, eventful month! Hogwarts (and in essence Hermione Granger, though she will be a main character soon enough) might not come until chapter 20 or 25! But if you know my usual storytelling, you know this is the norm for me! The first year of Hogwarts will come, don't worry... be patient!