Chapter 838 - Ch: 33-34

Chapter 33 - Knock Knock

Cornelius was finishing off his Sunday lunch, sitting at the Professors' table in Hogwarts. He'd arrived early, expecting to find resistance to his plan from the two foreign schools. Instead, they couldn't wait to go home and both would be leaving before dinner tonight. Putting his knife and fork down, it was time to disrupt their lunch. Knowing that cake and ice cream would be served after he finished speaking should help sweeten the impact of what he had to say.

Making his way toward the podium, Cornelius took out his list of points he needed to cover here today. There were rather a lot, and he couldn't afford to miss any. "Good afternoon everyone. I can't remember ever addressing Hogwarts students before like this but, after the events of the other morning, there really was no other option. I wanted you to hear these things from your Minister, rather than read some journalistic interpretation of what I was supposed to say. Firstly, Albus Dumbledore was arrested and is being handed over to the International Confederation of Wizards to face trial for his many, many crimes. He will never return to Hogwarts, which has now been placed under the control of the Ministry of Magic."

This was greeted by stunned silence, so Cornelius pressed on. "The new Headmaster of Hogwarts is Professor Severus Snape. I offer him my congratulations, as well as my promise of aid to wade through the mess Dumbledore has left Hogwarts in." When the Minister of Magic started clapping, the rest of the school joined in on the applause for their new Headmaster.

"I would also like to congratulate Professor Narcissa Snape on being appointed Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts. The school now has a leadership team in place ready to make the changes necessary to take Hogwarts where it needs to be."

Again there was applause at this announcement. "I'm pleased to see Mister Krum up and about once more, after his efforts in the first task resulted in a short stay in Hogwarts infirmary. Miss Delacour was taken to the Potter Institute where Healer Pomfrey is confident she'll make a full recovery, and she too will be up and about in the next day or so."

Cornelius got to experience the difference in his audience's attention even mentioning the Institute's name invoked. "Now, due to the changes we need to make at Hogwarts, we find ourselves unable to host our guests from Beauxbatons and Drumstrang. They will both be leaving for home later on today, and returning on the date of the second task. This also necessitates the moving of our planed Triwizard Tournament Ball, from Yule to summer…"

The Minister had expected a reaction at that news, just not the one he got. Amos Diggory's son shot from his seat and raced to speak with a Gryffindor witch. The discussion seemed to be far more involved, rather than him asking her for a date, but he left the table with a wide grin on his face nevertheless.

Severus knew for a fact Cedric wasn't asking the Gryffindor chaser for a date, but that short conversation had seemed intense - that bore investigation. "Mister Diggory, perhaps you could enlighten us to what you thought important enough to interrupt the Minister's speech?"

Cedric now looked like a badger caught in a searchlight. "Eh, sorry sir. The Yule Ball being moved to summer freed me to do something else at that time. I was just checking that I hadn't missed my chance."

"Pray tell, what this something else is that has you so excited?"

Cedric was left with Snap staring at him, looking for an answer, in front of the entire school. "I'm free to spend the holiday with some friends… abroad…"

The Minister saved Cedric having to say anymore. "I'm going to take a wild guess here and say these friends are currently in Italy?" Watching the boy crumble in front of him, and a number of students heads going down too, convinced Cornelius he was right. It was time to put this distrust in his Ministry - and Hogwarts - to bed.

"Mister Diggory, Lord Potter is not an enemy of my Ministry. His Institute not an enemy of Hogwarts. Albus Dumbledore was the reason Lord Potter left Hogwarts. Albus Dumbledore is the reason the Potter Institute now exists. I cannot fault Lord Potter on any of his decisions, only congratulate him on what a magnificent achievement his Institute clearly is." Seeing the Diggory boy still rooted to the spot, he advised him to sit as the Minister decided to tell them the full story.

"A week or so before the end of last term, Lord Potter, his Betrothed and Healer Pomfrey witnessed Dumbledore obliviate me in the Hogwarts infirmary. As Dumbledore turned his wand on them, they managed to overcome him - and knowing they wouldn't be believed - Pomfrey obliviated Dumbledore and they started to plan their departure right there and then. I've since had my memories returned, and Lord Potter was reaching out to me for help with his innocent godfather that night. With Dumbledore illegally taking that option away from the lad, Lord Potter was left with very few options available to him - other than to get him and his friends as far away from Dumbledore as he could."

They were now hanging on his every word, and Cornelius didn't disappoint. "McGonagall, Vector, Babbling, Clearwater and Weasley - all former Hogwarts Professors who had their minds messed with by Dumbledore. I arrived here today with two healers, and every Professor in the castle has now been examined to ensure they were free of Dumbledore's influence. Here was a man who believed in his own legend, and listened to no one attempting to tell him any different. Is it any wonder then that some of the best Professors at Hogwarts left - and others of the same caliber refused to work under a Headmaster like Dumbledore. When you look at the people who shaped and built the Potter Institute, they were all in this castle last term. All that talent, all those ideas - but Dumbledore didn't want to listen. He obliviated me because I was listening to Lord Potter, and was about to help him - we can all see the consequences Dumbledore's actions that day have led to."

Moving back to the Professor's table, Cornelius lifted his tumbler of juice. He hadn't planned on saying this much and his throat was now dry. Refreshed, and his thoughts reordered, he put his tumbler back down and continued.

"Today is a new beginning for Hogwarts, and we only have to look toward the Institute to see what can be achieved when everyone pulls together - and I do mean everyone. We're looking for your ideas too, your suggestions on how Hogwarts can be improved. It's your school after all, it's time to reclaim it from a person hell bent on keeping our entire society stuck in the last century, instead of preparing the students under his care for the next. You'll see new Professors arriving from tomorrow, your courses are being evaluated with History of Magic and Muggle Studies in line for complete overhauls. My Ministry and you're new Headmaster will be working closely and tirelessly to ensure everyone here gets a Hogwarts education that's second to none. Some of these changes start today and we intend to have most things we want changed in place by the time you return from your Christmas Holidays - wherever your spending them."

The applause started of sporadically but quickly grew, Cornelius had just gone for it and this response was exhilarating. Just standing here and speaking to the students was having such an affect - on him and them. He needed these students to stay in Hogwarts. By their response today, he'd just convinced most of them to do so. Cornelius hadn't had the time to sit down and work out what effect the removal of Dumbledore's influence on him was having, but he certainly felt a lot more decisive.

"I've merely given you a broad outline here today, many more announcements - and a lot more details - will be provided by Hogwarts new leadership team. Thank you for your attention here today."

He shook hands with Severus, kissed Narcissa's knuckles, before saying goodbye to both the visiting heads. One thing a politician learned early on was not to overstay your welcome. He would leave the people at Hogwarts to enjoy their sweet in peace.

-oOoOo-

The atmosphere during lunch at the Institute was a lot more jovial. Ron was taking a right ribbing over his actions yesterday, but nothing seemed able to wipe the wide grin he was wearing from his face.

"You do realise you traumatised poor Colin for life?"

"Apparently he woke up screaming from a nightmare last night."

"Yes, he was dreaming he caught the snitch - and you snogged him."

Harry was rolling with laughter at the twins antics, he was by no means the only one. "Sorry mate, I need to permanently resign from ever playing seeker again. Even Oliver Wood - 'catch the snitch or die trying' - never snogged his seeker."

There wasn't much eating getting done at their table as everyone was too busy laughing. Luna of course didn't help. "Harry, did Oliver at least tell you what to do after you caught the snitch?"

This saw the twins entering the fray again. "Hey Harry, remember how you caught the snitch in your first match?"

"Do you reckon Ron was checking to see if Luna had caught the snitch by the same method."

Hermione was keeping her eye on Joan. The little witch didn't really understand what was happening here, but Luna and Millie were two of her absolute favourite people on the planet. The thought of Ron hurting either would have resulted in a severe ankle kicking. Only the fact both girls were loudly laughing along offered a stay of execution for the boy she'd considered an uncle. Hermione decided to end this, before things got out of hand - and she knew just how to do it.

"Could have been worse, Ron. Imagine if you'd played Ginny at seeker?"

That wiped the grin off Ron's face, he even put his knife and fork down. "That's it, Millie is seeker for our next match!"

This resulted in howls of laughter, with neighbouring tables joining in too.

Pomona really enjoyed the more relaxed atmosphere inside the Institute, she had also recognised exactly what Hermione just did. The atmosphere was again going to take an upturn as Poppy led the three Delacours to a table, with Fluer moving rather gingerly as the quartet sat down to lunch. Spotting them, Joan was quick to grab Hermione's hand and start dragging her over there. Harry soon followed, greeting Fleur as Joan had shot straight to Gabrielle.

"Good afternoon Miss Delacour, I'm delighted to see you up and about. I hope you weren't looking for a quiet lunch though, everyone's still a bit high after the quidditch match yesterday."

Apolline invited the trio to sit with them as Fluer answered Harry. "My bed was pushed over to 'ze window, we got to watch 'ze full match. You and 'Ermione fly fantastique. Krum 'zought next task would be easy win for us, 'e 'as never seen you fly."

Hermione let out a harumph of annoyance. "His teamwork leaves a lot to be desired. Considering he's a professional quidditch player, that's a really bad flaw in his character. I wouldn't trust him as far as I could throw him."

A grinning Harry couldn't help but answer that. "Not really a fair comparison there love. After all, you could probably throw him quite a distance."

Hermione was now smiling too - though it was mainly due to watching Joan and Gabrielle chat - with Apolline acting as interpreter.

"It's great to see 'er again, and so 'appy too. I must 'zank you for your 'ospitality, and inviting 'zem."

That had Harry shaking his head at Fluer. "I keep telling everyone, I'm just a student here. Nobody believes me. I employed two people for the Institute, Professor Sprout and my favourite healer here - the Headmistress took care of the rest. If I went into the infirmary and started telling Poppy what to do, I'd get a smack to the back of my head. Why then does everyone think the Headmistress is going to do what I tell her."

"Too true, Mister Potter. Everything he just said there is correct, Miss Delacour, including Poppy being employed before me. Having experienced her care, you'll perhaps understand why I was delighted with her appointment. With the shenanigans these two got up to at Hogwarts, both were well aware of Poppy's abilities."

A chuckling healer couldn't help but joke back. "Pomona stop - you're making me blush - or should I be asking for a raise?"

It was then the Headmistress's turn to fire the joke right back at Poppy. "Our boss is sitting right next to you, ask him for me too!"

Harry's groan had both witches laughing at him. Fluer had never seen anything like this, Professors sitting beside and joking along with students at lunch. Thinking back to the castle, where the staff sat at a raised table and looked down on everyone, Fluer just had to ask the question that was puzzling her. "'Ow did you stand 'Ogwarts, when everything is so different 'ere?"

Pomona was instantly serious. "We work very hard to keep things like this, the students and staff all enjoy and actually benefit from the more relaxed atmosphere. Things will be changing in Hogwarts now too, Dumbledore was arrested, the school is now being run by the Ministry and Snape's the new Headmaster. Who knows what will happen there next, but we'll just concentrate on keeping on doing what we're doing - following the plans we made and the goals we set ourselves. Seeing you up and about, we must be doing something right."

Poppy nodded in agreement. "She's still a bit sore, and the new skin will need a little time to let her move more freely but overall I'm delighted with her progress." Fluer staring at Poppy in disbelief started Harry laughing.

"You can't fool Poppy, she just knows things."

This left Poppy shaking her head. "I wish I knew what was in those potions? I'm sure Dumbledore was giving them something to keep Frank and Alice in that condition."

Pomona thought so too. "Rosa had to admit defeat, and take the potions to a Ministry lab for better equipment. She says they're like nothing she's ever seen before, and Rosa de Marco is one of the top Potions Mistresses in all of Italy. They are certainly not potions normally handed out in any hospital, which lends credence to our theories that someone else was supplying them. If that turns out to be the case, that's another set of charges that can be laid at Dumbledore's door."

-oOoOo-

The knock on their door was expected by both Snapes, they were certain of just who was on the other side of their door too. Severus opened the door and invited a clearly flustered Charity to come in and take a seat.

She refused all offers of refreshments, wanting to get right down to business. "Severus, I sat at lunch and listened to our Minister of Magic announce to the school that there would be a complete overhaul of the subject I teach here - in the very near future too. My first question would have to be why wasn't I told beforehand?"

It was an apologetic Severus who tried to explain the situation to his Muggle Studies Professor. "If I was in your position, I would be asking the exact same question. Sorry Charity, our meeting with the Minister - where Narcissa and I officially accepted our new roles - ended just before lunch. There wasn't time to tell anyone anything, and then the Minister said a lot more than he was supposed to at that podium. The Ministry are really pushing bringing Muggle Studies up to date, we've no option but to back him. Fudge witnessed Augusta Longbottom pick up a phone and talk with people at the Institute. Telephones were not part of the course when he sat his NEWT, and I don't think the course materials have been updated much since then."

"Severus, how is this possible - I'm going to need lots of training."

"Charity, the experts at the Ministry all learned from the same material you still teach. They're looking for someone not only to teach this new material, but to update and rewrite the entire Muggle Studies course."

You could practically see the cogs whirring in her head, and coming up with an answer the Professor didn't like. "There's no way I could have a new course up and running in the time-scale Fudge was talking about. That can only mean he's already got my replacement in mind - surely he doesn't think a muggle, or even a muggleborn is going to be able to teach this 'updated' course? This isn't Potter's Institute, they simply won't be believed."

Both Severus and Narcissa had known this conversation was inevitable from the moment Fudge had made his announcement in the Great Hall. That had at least given them a little while to prepare.

"Fudge thinks he might have a solution to that problem, we weren't really in a position to argue with him. What I will argue though is that Charity Burbage is an excellent Professor, and Hogwarts needs to hang on to as many of those as we can."

Narcissa now put a much needed cup of tea into the witch's hand. "I can understand that would have been hard to hear at lunch today, but did you happen to pick up on the other course that's getting a complete overhaul too? Changing your subject to History could be a smart career move."

Severus was quick to back his wife on this. "One of the first things the Ministry wants to investigate is when and why Hogwarts broke away from the higher standards of exams sat by students all over Europe. That investigation might lead to all of our courses being revamped. With History though, you will have Ministry experts who would at least be able to set guidelines on what needs covered at what student level and how in-depth that material would need to be taught. In other words, you wouldn't be just thrown in there and left to fend for yourself."

Again Charity's mind was in overdrive, thankful that Severus immediately offered that she didn't need to make her mind up right this minute. While drinking her tea, Charity found herself giving a little chuckle at the situation she found herself in. "I would need to be a pretty poor Professor to be considered worse at teaching History than Binns. I still intend to think about this a lot more but I'm certainly interested. I'm also interested in Fudge's solution for teaching Muggle Studies."

"Charity, the Ministry will be looking at whether a currently unused part of the castle could be outfitted to teach Muggle Studies, or if they have to construct a new building on the edge of our wards. That's how serious the Ministry are taking this, and why we really couldn't say no."

A flabbergasted Charity was left struggling to form words, until her expression hardened. "I approached Dumbledore all the time, you've both heard me at staff meetings, trying to get funds for new teaching materials. Every time the answer was no, no matter what I asked for. Do you think this was deliberate on his part? Keep our world ignorant of muggles to avoid awkward questions like why Wizarding Society seems determined to resist any and all changes."

The three people present could easily see this as something Dumbledore would want, and the whole country would soon learn that Dumbledore had many different and devious ways of achieving what he wanted.

"I think you might be right there, which will make our new History of Magic classes even more important. The rise and fall of both Riddle and Dumbledore will have more far reaching effects on our society than any goblin rebellions from centuries ago. I wonder if that's why Dumbledore left Binn's in place too? No one has learned anything in that class for decades, everyone just studies the materials in their textbooks to pass the exams."

This revelation from her husband actually had Narcissa letting out a loud sigh. "We're going to be double-guessing everything Dumbledore had a hand in for years to come. And since that big nose of his seemed to poke in everyone's business, it's going to take years to sort this all out."

They could see the truth behind her words, and Severus quickly agreed with his wife. "I'm sure that's why the Ministry are concentrating on Hogwarts, and especially the two subjects the Minister mentioned today. We were all watching Hogwarts slowly die before our eyes, Narcissa and I already had new jobs lined up - away from the castle - from summer. If we can't keep Hogwarts open, it will literally mean the beginning of the end for our way of life in Britain. The damage done by Voldemort and Dumbledore is so great, drastic action needs to be done to prevent that demise. That's why we're seeing such a reaction, there's a lot more than our jobs on the line here."

It was Charity who had the last word. "Is it just me, or is a competent Ministry and Minister as big a shock to both of you as well?"

-oOoOo-

After watching them face the Dragon, Joan had become all clingy again for the last few days. The only time they'd been apart since returning from Hogwarts - with Joan naturally needed to stay with them that night - was Friday's classes and Saturday's quidditch match. After dinner on Sunday though, they were all ready for things to go back to normal - with Joan leaving to stay with Dan and Emma.

Sitting snuggling on their sofa, the betrothed couple finally had a chance to 'celebrate' the events that just changed their lives. "I can't believe both of them are gone, so quickly too. It feels too good to be true."

Harry kissed her doubts away. "Riddle is certainly gone for good. Even if Dumbledore pulls something out the bag, he's already finished in Britain and Europe. With all the shit he's pulled for the 'greater good' becoming known, no one will ever trust him again. I think the ICW will throw everything they have at him, Dumbledore has been hoodwinking them for decades too."

More kissing, and less discussion followed - before a knock at their door put an end to their enjoyment for now.

"We could ignore it?"

"As much as I'd like to, mum and dad may be having a problem with Joan."

That was all Harry needed to hear, he was up and answering the door - and received a surprise."

"Hey, pup, glad we caught both of you before you headed off to bed - your own beds of course."

Knowing what he'd just interrupted didn't put Hermione in the mood for Sirius's poor attempts at humour. "Harry, kindly remind your godfather we've dealt with two Dark Lords in the last week. Throwing him out of our rooms won't exactly present a problem. Hi Francesca, you of course are welcome here anytime. Him, not so much."

This had Francesca giggling like a schoolgirl. "Sorry Hermione, but that might cause a problem. You see, I've decided to keep the big mutt." Still giggling away, she held her left hand out so Hermione could see the diamond sparkling away on her brand new engagement ring.

In a flash, Hermione was beside Francesca and offering her congratulations. The two ladies were now sitting on the sofa, leaving Harry to shake Sirius's hand before leading him over to a couple of chairs.

"The only other people who know about this are Francesca's parents."

Hermione was now the one making bad jokes. "I'll bet that was a hard sell. Their daughter, the famous architect, marrying a man who doesn't even have a job. Did they threaten to kick you out too?"

Carrying on as if he hadn't heard her, Sirius continued with what he wanted to ask. "We needed to check with you two first, before announcing the date and venue to everyone else. We know Hermione's really busy on the comedy circuit, and we wanted to book her to do a turn at our wedding - give our guests a good laugh..."

They all tried to hold straight faces, but Harry broke first. Seconds later, they were all laughing away. Sirius recovered, and put his serious face on. "I really wanted to ask if we can get married in the place where Francesca and I first met - your villa."

Francesca had more to add. "Sirius has told me everything, how you two even bent the laws of time to save his life. Hermione might joke about it, but you really did get rid of two Dark Lords in the last few days too."

She smiled before moving on to what else needed to be said. "You might not realise this but you both also changed my life out of all recognition, and not just because you brought Sirius into it. Being the architect of the school that's once more front page on every Italian magical newspaper changed my career forever. Designing the Black Orphanage didn't do me any harm either, but Le Armonia is going to take everything to another level. You two have affected our lives to such a degree, and in so positive a way, we want you both to stand with us on the day we get married…"

Harry immediately turned to his godfather. "I thought you would ask Moony to be your best man?"

"Remus won't mind me asking you, anyone else though would see him get annoyed. There's a day deliberately built in between the changeover of students leaving the Institute for their holidays and the orphanage arriving, that's the day we want to get married."

"Not giving Francesca any time to change her mind there."

"Oh my mind's already made up, your godfather is going to be stuck with me for the rest of his life. What about you two, will you stand with us? Joan would make an adorable flower girl…"

Hermione was beaming a smile measured in gigawatts. "Oh you both knew we would say yes, though Joan is adorable no matter what she does."

As plans were being discussed, Dobby popped in with refreshments - and also offered the couple his congratulations too. Hermione of course had started making a list, and no one said anything because Francesca had her notebook out too.

"This is rather a lot to get done in such a short space of time. You'r planning a wedding in less than three weeks!"

"Don't worry, Hermione. If we can build a school in a couple of months, we'll manage fine with a few weeks to get ready for our wedding. Both Sirius and I have never been busier, and neither of us have ever been happier. Students go home on Friday the eighteenth, we get married on the nineteenth, with the orphanage arriving on the twentieth. We both want to be here for their arrival, then a few days away for a honeymoon, before returning to celebrate Christmas Eve."

"When you say it like that, it sounds doable." Hermione was interrupted by their phone ringing, picking it up Harry quickly answered.

"Yes, he's here. Is anything wrong?" Harry was obviously assured everything was fine before handing the phone over to Sirius. "It's Jillian. Apparently she has a visitor at the orphanage who's desperate to speak with you. They didn't kick them out because this person claims to be family."

"Hi Jillian, it's no bother. Yes, Andromeda is my cousin and I'd be happy to speak with her." Sirius then put his hand over the mouthpiece, as Jillian was calling this cousin into her office. "Andi is the only member of my family I like. She told her father to stick a betrothal contact up his arse before marrying a muggleborn she loved. Got herself kicked out of the family, same as my mother tried to do to me… Andi, is that you? How's Ted, and little Nym? What, she joined the aurors - not so little anymore then. How can I help?"

Sirius listened for a few moments before asking an important question. "Andi, is this something you want to do - or are you being pressured into it?"

"Ok, are you still staying in the same house - and can you get away for the weekend - you can bring Ted along too, if I can swing this. Leave your number with Jillian. I need to talk with some people then I'll contact you. Too late to do anything tonight but I promise you I'll be in touch - probably Tuesday. Take care, and say hi to the family for me."

Sirius took a seat before filling the rest of them in on the other side of the conversation he'd just had. "Andi works at St Mungo's as a medi-witch. This afternoon, she was approached by Fudge, to see if she was interested in teaching Muggle Studies at Hogwarts. She'll double her salary and not have to work any more night shifts, but for that the Ministry want her to design the course she would be teaching. Andi knows she's out of her depth, and is desperate to talk with the people who produced the course taught at the Institute. Since this Friday is December's family visit weekend, I was thinking maybe she and Ted - her husband - could maybe tag along. Andi could see the Modern Studies classes being taught on Friday, before talking Dan and Emma's ears off all weekend."

"Mum and dad would love that, having someone else to talk over their course with. They'll more than likely pick a few things up from Andi too. With their agreement, Pomona would probably approve the visit. Now Dumbledore's gone, helping Hogwarts improve is something we can all get behind. I can't see us losing any staff or students to them, but we shouldn't have a problem helping them keep the ones they've got."

Sirius promised to speak with Pomona in the morning, before saying goodnight and then he and Francesca headed home - to Harry's villa.

As the young couple settled back down on their couch, both were rather blown away by the events of the evening. "Francesca says we've had a big impact on her life, but she's had a huge impact on ours too. We literally wouldn't be sitting here if it wasn't for her. I'm so excited to see what she comes up with for the village, and love the name - Harmony."

She could feel Harry's thoughts whizzing through his head, the conclusions he was reaching totally floored her. "Are you sure?"

"We know the problems they will face, they simply don't - and don't have the time to lose figuring that out either. After a thousand years, there isn't a single piece of stone in the castle that isn't saturated in magic. They will spend ages before realising it can't be converted to what we have here. The Ministry apparently doesn't have any expertise in designing a relevant Muggle Studies course, what chance would they have of designing a building it could be taught in? With Sirius's cousin possibly teaching the course too, this just feels like the right thing to do."

This earned Harry a kiss from his beaming betrothed as she saw his thoughts on the matter. "The Lily Potter Faculty of Modern Studies, designed by Lady Francesca Black, I absolutely love it. Wizards and witches in Britain all think of you as this 'Dark Lord Destroyer' now, and totally fail to see the wonderful, caring man you're growing into. My parents adore you, Joan loves you to bits and I can hardly wait until you become my husband. I love you, Harry, with everything that I am."

Her kisses almost had Harry forgetting his name, never mind what he wanted to ask. "I loved Sirius's idea of celebrating where he and Francesca met by getting married there. I wanted to mark the spot where we met my parents, shared our first kiss and you told me you loved me. Having pureblood witches and wizards learning Modern Studies on the exact same location would seem a fitting way to mark the spot where our lives changed forever. What do you think?"

The tears in Hermione's eyes were clearly of the happy variety. Both understood the British Ministry of Magic's reactions to the current situation would determine whether this idea became more than just a discussion between them. She didn't care though, just Harry thinking about helping was enough to make Hermione even prouder of her betrothed.

Her lips once more on Harry's put all other thoughts out of both their heads. With their future now assured, they could actually relax and just enjoy these wonderful moments together.

-oOoOo-

The first thing Albus's senses acknowledged as he slowly awoke was the bitter cold. There were cold iron shackles around his wrists, a slight movement by him was all that was needed to confirm his ankles were shackled by that same cold metal too. Whatever he was lying on was cold as well, so it was time to open his eyes and discover just how much trouble he was actually in.

The room was brightly lit, overly so in his opinion. Having a glance around, Albus realised calling this a room was wishful thinking on his part, this was nothing more than a bare cell. After further examination, Albus had to revise his assumptions again. This was a rather special cell, with its walls, floor and ceiling constructed of cold iron - a substance that reacted to magic like a soaking wet blanket would to being thrown over a campfire. You may still get some smoke but there would be no flames - unless the blanket was removed.

Knowing the Ministry of Magic building held nothing like this just added to the apprehension Albus was feeling - where the hell was he? As a section of the wall opened and a short, balding wizard entered, Albus was certain he was about to get some of those much needed answers.

"Where am I? Why have you brought me here? How long have I been here? Do you know who I am?"

"Oh, Mister Dumbledore, has your memory been affected? Do you not know who you are?"

"Of course I know who I am, I just wondered if you did."

"Since I'm your chief interrogator, you can rest easy on that score - I know exactly who and what you are. As for the rest of your questions, sorry but you didn't give me time to explain - or even introduce myself. My name is John Smith, and the way this works is I ask the questions - you are here to provide answers to them."

"I won't be answering any questions, until all of mine are answered to my satisfaction first."

"You really haven't grasped how this works, have you? If you refuse to answer, we have no choice but to use truth potions on you. Before that though, just in case you have ingested anything to negate our potions, you will be fed a series of purging potions. Now, due to the specific construction of this room, no magic can be cast in here. That means we either leave you lying in your own shit, or turn a hose on you. In a moment, we'll let you experience that phenomenon, fortunately without the purging potions, to help you decide what path you want to choose on our journey to the truth. Oh, the Italian Ministry are really interested in the potions you charmed healers to administer to a pair of aurors for well over a decade - under the guise of treatment. You have a little think about that, before starting to shout about how harsh our treatment is of you."

As the wizard stepped from the cell and the door disappeared, jets of ice cold water shot out of the walls and ceiling. Albus found himself struggling to breathe, not from any water hitting his mouth or nose but rather the shock from being drenched with intensely cold water. It actually took Albus a moment to realise the water had stopped hitting him, though lying there in a soaking robe did nothing to lessen his severe bout of shaking and shivering.

As the water ran into the drain on the floor, the little man entered once more and attached a clockwork timer to a wall of the cell. "I will return in one hour to ask you some questions. Should you not wish to answer, we'll begin you regime of purging potions. We are not deliberately withholding food from you, but just don't see the point of giving you any when your digestive system won't have time to do its work - before that food would be violently expelled from your body. I'll bring a weak cup of tea with me when I return, a couple of sips won't do you any harm. Think carefully on what you want to do next, the choice is entirely up to you."

It took Albus four attempts to say what he wanted to, his teeth were actually chattering with cold. "I'm a Triwizard Champion, you'll lose your magic if I can't compete."

"Who says I've got any magic to loose? Anyway, your Ministry are being very cooperative. After discovering just how many people in the Ministry and Wizengamot you had spelled to do your bidding, they can't do enough to assist us. They'll schedule the second task for whenever we want."

He set the timer to countdown his sixty minutes before leaving an Albus Dumbledore who simply couldn't believe what he was hearing. If they had found all his people, then it really was over for him.

Stepping outside the cell, the interrogator quickly entered the room next to it.

"How's he doing?"

"Cold, more irritated than frightened, certainly confused and stressed out his box. Nothing too worrying at the moment, he's probably lying there trying to figure out who we are, just how we know all you've just told him and how he's going to get out of here."

Looking at all the gauges, and seeing none of the needles were in the red zones, was good enough for him. All the sensors built into the table were connected by cables to the control room that was monitored by a technician twenty-four / seven.

"John Smith?"

"Oh I didn't think the old guy would get Bruce Banner or Peter Parker. I want him to know I'm lying about my name, and didn't want to call myself Godric

Gryffindor."

"You really are a twisted bastard, the old guy has no idea what's coming his way."

"Listen Hugh, compared to that old guy in there - I'm a fucking angel. That is, without doubt, the nastiest piece of shit to ever lay on that table. Our bosses know he's going to be a hard nut to crack but want it done. I feel like I need a shower from just being in the same cell with him, and we haven't even started on the potions yet."

Looking at the old bald guy on the monitor, the technician had to ask a question. "If he's as bad as you say, how the bloody hell did he wangle becoming Headmaster of a boarding school?"

-oOoOo-

A grinning Harry was getting ready to face the new week when loud knocking on their door interrupted his pleasant memories of last evening. With a quick 'I'll get it love' over their rings, Harry headed for the door. This time he found a pair of red headed twins excitedly waiting on him.

Thrusting a letter into his hands, while demanding he read it, they took chances each at telling him exactly what the letter said.

"It's from Angelina, all the people the Headmistress invited said yes."

"Fudge now knows about their visit, but doesn't care."

"Says you and the Institute are not their enemies."

"He actually said he was going to help you, and Dumbledore obliviated him."

"You told us about that, so we know it's true."

"Fudge said Dumbledore's to blame for everything."

Hermione had now joined Harry, and quickly read the note. "There's a mistake here, guys. Why is Lee's name not down as a visitor?"

"We didn't get to pick the names."

"Didn't know who's names were on the list."

"Do you think the Headmistress would add him?"

"I think Lee and Antonio would have great fun commentating on any pick-up games we have - and our little visitors would love it." Hermione handed them their letter back, knowing they would need to take it to Pomona. "Just ask her, one more visitor isn't going to make a great deal of difference."

With that, the excited twins shot off down the corridor.

"I wonder if we're curbing their enthusiasm a little too much, perhaps we could find them a safe outlet to have a bit of fun."

Hermione had an answer for Harry almost instantly. "A fireworks display, New Year's Eve. Set them off on the quidditch pitch and we're practically spoilt for choice of places to watch them from."

"I think it should be Remus who suggests this to Pomona. She'll want him to work with the twins on the project, keep them in hand, and they'll love working on this alongside a Marauder."

This resulted in Harry receiving his morning kiss from Hermione. "Mister 'I'm just a student here' Potter, that was downright devious - and utterly brilliant."

The effortlessly switched to speaking through their rings, while heading out for breakfast. They wanted this to be kept between them for now, with Hermione's thoughts quite clear on the matter. 'Looks like the Ministry are really pulling their finger out with this one. We already know teaching wizards and witches properly about the mundane world will change them forever. There's no going back once they start down that road, you can't put the genie back in the bottle once it's out.'

'I think we wait and see what this cousin of Sirius's is like. Probably more importantly, what your mum and dad think of her - as a person and a potential Professor. If we're all in agreement, we'll break the news to her before she goes back to Britain.'

Hermione also had a wide grin, and not just because of last evening. 'If she returns to the Ministry with not only a Modern Studies course, but a building to teach it in, Fudge will kiss her feet and triple her wages.'

'Ew - could have done without the image of Fudge kissing anyone before my breakfast.' Joan was already seated, and waved madly at them - just in case they didn't spot her.

Hermione waved back as they headed over. If Professor de Marco was still working on the Longbottom potions, they would have a double period of Penny and Percy to start their week off. Knowing Rosa would leave the substitute Professors clear and precise instructions as to what she wanted taught in each class, neither was worried about the quality of their lesson.

Sitting beside Joan, Hermione just had to ask her parents. "Have you seen Sirius this morning?"

Chapter 34 - Bring to Light

Since this was his third time around, Dumbledore was becoming more familiar with the inhumane process they were very deliberately putting his old body through. As the pain of being chemically forced to expel every morsel from his digestive system began to wane, his appreciation of the powerful aroma resulting from these actions became far more pronounced. Just before it became totally overpowering, the jets of ice-cold water would instantly replace the dispelling abdominal pain in refocusing his mind away from the vile stench.

Thankfully while the severe change in temperature still shocked him every time, Dumbledore couldn't deny the forcible application of the ice cold water was very effective at fulfilling its main objective - cleaning away everything his body had so recently and explosively expelled. As he lay there shivering, listening as the last of the water ran into the drains built into the floor, Dumbledore was already anticipating the next part of the process. A hot cup of tea and a mug of soup might not be much to look forward to but, until he could figure a way to get himself out of here, it was really all he had.

They wouldn't tell him how long the purging program would continue for, but the longer they took the more time he had in hand. Albus was certain once they started to ask him questions under truth serum his goose would be well and truly cooked. Interrogator Smith seemed very competent, he had no illusions that his darkest secrets wouldn't soon spill from his lips.

At that, Smith walked in with a pair of metal cylinders Albus remembered were called 'thermos flasks'. These were muggle devices that kept the tea and soup warm, since no magic would work in his cell - very clever devices that also had their own attached cups.

Pouring tea into the stainless steel cup, Smith held Dumbledore's head up and helped him sip the sweet warm liquid. When the cup was empty he switched flasks and started feeding the old wizard chicken soup.

In a vey light tone, Smith began their chat. "The latest news is you have been disowned by your brother - kicked out of the Dumbledore family. I know this is unusual - since you are the older brother - but there were so many families lining up to declare blood feud on yours. Sorry, that was rather cruel of me, since it's not your family anymore. Discovering that your brother was one of the most heavily spelled of your victims generated Abe a lot of support and sympathy - and saw the unusual motion pass through your Wizengamot unanimously. What possessed you to cast that amount of spells on your own brother - since the time he was a teenager too!"

His first serving of soup finished, Dumbledore's eyes never left the flask as it refilled the cup. He chatted away, as if having a conversation with one of his closest friends.

"Abe was telling anyone who would listen that I had murdered our sister, he didn't believe my story that it was Gellert's wand that cast the fatal blow. Gellert knew it wasn't his wand that killed Ariana and immediately ended our relationship - said I was a dark bastard. Pot, kettle, black."

Taking another welcome sip of soup, Albus continued spilling his secrets. "Abe broke my nose at Ariana's funeral by punching me like a common muggle, it was very public too. Enough people were beginning to listen to him that I had to quickly put a stop to it. He still hates me of course, it would have appeared too suspicious if I took that hatred away as well, but every so often the charms would start to wear off. I finally had to take action to destroy his reputation, annihilate his credibility, create the situation where no one would believe Abe no matter what he said. Would you believe the claims of someone who served time in Azkaban for casting inappropriate charms on goats?"

"Did you force him into life he's led?"

"I couldn't risk anyone getting too close to Abe, they might have figured out he was under so many charms. I also didn't want any Dumbledore offspring running around, possibly outshining their Uncle Albus one day. When people think of the name 'Dumbledore', I want mine to be the only one that comes to their mind."

Smith let the old wizard finish his second cup of soup before changing the subject slightly. "There's teams of wizards and goblins tearing apart your old office and accommodation at Hogwarts. One of the things they discovered was the recipe for the potion you had administered to the Longbottoms. Our experts though are saying there must be a missing step - one you didn't write down."

Albus actually smiled at that. "Yes, I was really proud of that one - such a pity I couldn't actually boast about it to anyone. I infused the potion with my magic, only someone infusing any antidote with stronger magic than mine would release them. The potion will eventually wear out of their systems, but we're talking years for that to happen - rather than months."

Having used this method a number of times - slipping the suspect truth serum while they thought they were undergoing a purging program - something about Dumbledore's demeanour had been niggling away at the experienced interrogator.

"You appear very calm for a wizard whose life and reputation now lies in tatters. Is there a reason behind this?"

"I'm certain an opportunity will present itself for me to escape, and if I don't appear for the second task then those holding me captive will lose their magic. There is also the fact I know for certain Voldemort is not gone from this world. You see, he created soul jars - horcruxes - and will never be gone as long as one of them survives. Since Harry Potter is walking about with one of those in his head, you can perhaps understand why I'm confident Voldemort will return - and the wizarding world will need me once more. Who else is going to stand up to him? After I defeat Voldemort, no one will give a fuck about my little indiscretions… I'll also be sure to secure a full pardon from whoever is in charge of this investigation before I'll even lift my wand against Voldemort."

Taking the auto-injector from his pocket, it was quickly placed against Dumbledore's thigh and the press of a button passed a different potion into the old wizard's body. It not only put Dumbledore to sleep but reacted with the truth serum already present and ensured Albus Dumbledore wouldn't remember a word he'd said today - or that he'd even been questioned at all. He would know that a purge sequence had been carried out, including the tea and soup, but nothing else.

Collecting both thermoses, he headed straight for the control room - after securing Dumbledore's cell of course.

Hugh was on duty, and waiting on him. "All readings are well within acceptable limits. Please tell me he was talking bullshit at the end there? That is without doubt the darkest bastard we've ever had in here, even the thought of him possibly getting a pardon makes me want to vomit!"

"We both know that's a decision for way above our pay scale, let's see what they make of it." Hugh handed over a recording of the interrogation, knowing just how explosive this recording could be.

-oOoOo-

Pomona had grown to love Friday evenings of a visit weekend. Since the extensive Quibbler coverage of the very first visit, families now arrived with a good idea of what awaited them. They were still almost all amazed though, that had become the standard reaction to actually visiting the Institute for the first time. That was why the only glum couple at dinner tonight attracted Pomona's attention like a moth to a flame.

"Good evening, Mr and Mrs Tonks. Is our hospitality not up to standard?"

"Oh no, Headmistress. Your hospitality matches the rest of your wonderful school - top notch. I sat through lessons today where even I learned things, about the subject our Ministry want me to teach. Emma and Dan are wonderful at what they do, and have given me their course objectives for all seven years. They've also given me their lesson plans for the first four - and apologised that they hadn't gotten around to doing the rest yet."

Andi was shaking her head in disbelief at that. "They handed me what could be the most important documents for dragging magical Britain forward into the next millennium, and then apologised for not having lesson plans for lessons they'll eventually teach over the next three years. Those documents are nothing short of remarkable, and I can't say enough about how grateful I am to receive them, but I'm sitting here racking my brains over how I can replicate what they're brilliantly doing here in a thousand year old magical castle…"

This actually had Pomona smiling. "You know, it's amazing what you get used to. For those of us working here, our students too, this very quickly became our new normal. It's hard to imagine that a little over six months ago, we were just starting to put ideas down on paper. Our biggest and best decision was to choose the architect we did to design and get the Institute built. We all decided on a brilliant young lady by the name of Francesca Rossi - though she will become Lady Black before Christmas. She, more than anyone knows the problem you will face. We gave her an extensive list of requirements - which were continually added to - and she surpassed them all when she delivered us the Institute. Dobby…"

The little elf appeared at Pomona's side and she had her question ready. "Is Sirius and Francesca meeting with Harry and Hermione tonight?"

Dobby quickly confirmed they, and the Grangers, were having dinner in their accommodation while discussing tomorrow's wedding shopping trip to Naples.

"Could you ask if they could spare some time to speak with the Tonks?"

Before Ted or Andi could object about disturbing them, Dobby had popped away to ask. It was only a couple of minutes later that Dobby returned, only this time by a different method of transport. Joan was holding his hand and enthusiastically pulling Dobby into the dining area. The little girl headed straight for Pomona, guessing that the people sitting beside the Headmistress were the Tonks.

"Hello, are you Mr and Mrs Tonks? I'm Joan Potter - pleased to meet you. I'm here to take you to our rooms. Uncle Sirius says he has a surprise for you. Uncle Sirius is quite funny, but sometimes his surprises are not ones you would want or like. Harry calls them pranks, I'm not supposed to repeat what mum calls them - or what she calls Uncle Sirius sometimes."

Andi couldn't help but smile at the little girl, who seemed to say all that without taking a breath. Beside her, Ted was chuckling away. Both stood, and ended up with Joan between them. Taking a hand each before leading the way, with Dobby walking a step behind his little Miss.

The Tonks had spent their entire day with Dan and Emma, and also met Harry and Hermione in one of their classes. They of course already knew Sirius, who took great delight in introducing them to his fiancée.

Getting the Tonks' seated as Dobby provided some refreshments and cake, it was a grinning Harry who got the ball rolling. "Let me guess. You've loved what you've seen here today, but have no idea how to make that work in Hogwarts. You'll have quickly reached the conclusion that it just can't be done inside the castle, there will need to be a new building specifically designed and built to accommodate the running of the course. Bearing in mind the British Ministry couldn't even come up with a course, what do you think the chances are of them being able to manage that?"

Kissing her betrothed on the cheek, Hermione took over. "We're not saying that to score some cheap points here, but we all know it's the truth. The Ministry has looked down on muggles and the muggleborn for so long, they have no idea how to even approach this problem - which is why they approached you. We happen to think this is a wonderful idea though, and want to support it - and you - as much as we can."

Harry seamlessly took over. "We have pureblood students here who are learning to mix with Italian muggles. Learning a dress code, speaking a little of their language and confidentially using their currency to buy what they want in Muggle shops and cafes. They all love learning and doing it, and have no intention of ever giving that activity up. Once you can show the students what's available to them on the Muggle side of the equation, pureblood supremacy holds very little attraction for them whatsoever. My parents died over a decade ago defeating a dark Lord - and nothing inside magical Britain changed. For that institution to survive the drain of witches and wizards abandoning the sinking ship, there needs to be massive changes - and those changes need to happen as soon as possible. Francesca?"

Dobby was beside Francesca, with her required bag, before she could even move to get it. "Thank you Dobby. Andi and Ted, you just got a small taste of how the Institute was able to be built in such a short space of time. These two are very determined, know what they want and quite decisive when they set their minds about something. I have to warn you, these are mere sketches - they only approached me with this brief a few days ago."

Sirius passed the sketches along to Andi, who wasn't exactly sure what she was looking at. Harry soon cleared that confusion up.

"What your looking at there is the first drawings of The Lily Potter Faculty of Modern Studies, to be designed by Lady Francesca Black and built at Hogwarts. I'm willing to fund the costs of designing, building, fitting and furnishing this faculty at the edge of the Hogwarts wards. All the technology you will need would of course be included to. I would advise hiring someone to keep all the tech running, and they could also act as your Assistant Professor. Hogwarts can pick up that wage bill but we'll fund everything else - including an inbuilt contract to keep the technology updated. We have a specific location on the Hogwarts grounds in mind, but the final decision on that would of course be up to the architect - Francesca."

Andi was speechless, currently switching between studying the drawings and starting at this pair of unbelievable teens. It was left to Ted to break their silence. "This is a fantastic offer, that's going to cost you a small fortune. I'm struggling to see what you get out of it though?"

A grinning Harry couldn't help but look at his godfather. "Sirius was asked the exact same question about his sponsorship of the Black Orphanage, his answer that day was outstanding - and could easily also apply here. To be perfectly frank, no one connected with the Institute wants to see Hogwarts close its doors. For it to remain open though, vast improvements in curriculum and attitudes needs to be made. The Lily Potter Faculty of Modern Studies is a massive step in the right direction. If that's not worth investing in, then I don't know what is."

Taking a quick glance at his smiling godfather, Harry continued with what he wanted to say. "The Potter Institute was always intended to be a family legacy. This facility can be one too. Built in honour of a former muggleborn Hogwarts Head Girl who - in a time of terrorism against people like her - shone a spotlight on the pureblood supremacy crowd and showed them for the imbeciles that they are. I've personally seen all types of blood spilt, including my own, and none of it looked any different to me. The only purpose of our blood is so it can continue being pumped around our bodies and keeping its owner alive."

Hermione noticed Joan's nose twitching. She normally just asked when something was bothering her now, but obviously having company left her unsure whether she should here. "Something the matter, sweetie?"

"What's pureblood superman?"

Trying not to laugh at that image, Hermione attempted to explain. "Some witches and wizards, whose parents are also wizards and witches going back a few generations, think that makes them better than everyone else. That their pureblood makes them superior."

Joan's eyes were wide and her mouth was hanging open as she glanced around the room at the people she considered family. "That's just stupid. No one's better than you, Harry - or the rest of our family. No one at the Institute thinks like that!"

It was a smiling Dan who said what everyone else was thinking. "Out of the mouths of babes. If a four year old can see that, how can the British Ministry run a society built on embracing those values?"

Francesca snuggled into Sirius. "It is just all so totally different than what I'm used to. That day in the Wizengamot, they were starting at me like I was an exhibit in a zoo. They will never accept me married to Sirius…"

"Which is why we'll be living in Italy - in a house designed and built by my brilliant wife-to-be. As you can see, since there is a wedding to organise too, this genius next to me is a very busy lady. Even so, she's prepared to have this facility built at Hogwarts - up and running before the end of March."

This rebooted Andi's brain. "How could you possibly have something as complicated as this ready so quickly? Do you know what the weather is like in the Scottish Highlands at this time of year?"

"Oh, that won't be a problem. We'll erect a weather dome, clear and prepare the ground before portkeying the prefabricated sections into the dome and joining them together. If your Ministry and school approve this project, I will go there with a surveyor and be able to firm up the dates for starting and finishing."

Indicating the drawings Andi was drooling over, Francesca went into a little more detail. "A self-contained generator is probably the easiest solution to power the facility but we will need to run telephone and coms lines from wherever the nearest points are. As you can see from the drawings, the facility will have a classroom - similar to the one the Grangers use here. There will also be a computer suite, since laptops are not really a practical solution - they wouldn't function outside the facility."

The Tonks had heard from the Grangers today that each Modern Studies students entering their OWL year would be provided with a laptop for use through to their NEWTs. The Institute was currently investigating the best wireless system to be installed over the coming summer. This was simply not an option available at Hogwarts so the computer suite made sense.

"There is also the equivalent of a muggle flat built into the facility. While fully functioning, it's main use will of course be for demonstration purposes. Both the classroom and computer suite will have projectors fitted, and can easily be used as a version of our cinema…"

This proved too much for Ted. "You have a cinema here too! I should have gone on the tour with the Headmistress, while you stayed in Modern Studies."

This drew a chuckle from Sirius. "I'll see if Minnie can give you a walk round tomorrow, as we're all heading into Naples…." A quick glance at Francesca saw instant agreement for the idea he'd just had. "Would you like to spend the day in Naples with us? We always intended to invite you both and Nymie to our wedding, and plan to do some clothes shopping for that tomorrow. From a professional point of view, a visit to a muggle shopping area is certainly something you should consider building into your course. We've been privileged to watch our lot experience Naples for the first time, it really was a life-changing experience for all of them."

It was a delighted couple who quickly agreed to accompany the group to Naples in the morning. Both already understood their lives had radically changed since the moment they'd stepped inside this wonderful school, with tomorrow now promising to be of a similar magnitude too. It was pretty daunting though to realise that you were being charged with the formidable task of changing the attitudes of magical Britain's students. Looking at these wonderful drawings once again, Andi for the very first time, actually began to believe she just might have a shot at pulling the impossible off.

-oOoOo-

While Harry enjoyed the monthly family visits, he strangely preferred the Monday mornings after - when the Institute returned to normal. That normally didn't last for long though, as Harry found himself being accompanied to Pomona's office by an equally bewildered Professor de Marko - with Penny temporarily taking over their potions class.

Upon arrival, they discovered Pomona had a visitor, the Italian Minister of Magic no less. A clearly agitated Minister barely allowed them to take their seats before starting on the reason he was here.

"Dumbledore's interrogation has thrown up some very disturbing allegations, concerning yourself, Lord Potter, and Voldemort. The Headmistress assured me you wouldn't mind talking about this in front of Professor de Marco, as I also need to speak to her on another matter."

"The Headmistress has full disclosure on this matter, as do the staff and my friends who spent the summer at my home. The matter was dealt with before the Headmistress began appointing staff to the Institute, hence why Professor de Marco wouldn't know anything about it. It's really not something the people who were involved want to talk about, although there was always the chance we would have to."

Nodding in understanding why she wasn't included in this information, the potions Professor was then almost physically sick as her Minister laid out these allegations.

"Dumbledore claims Voldemort made horcruxes, and can't be banished until all of these are dealt with. His most shocking claim though is that you have one in your head…" The Minister didn't need to say anymore, the consequences of that being true didn't require explanation.

Rosa though required a drink before they could continue this conversation. Wishing it was something stronger than orange juice - even at this time on a Monday morning. There really was no good time to hear news as bad as this, about a young man her whole family had grown to care for. Rosa tried not to think about the Potter girl her own children had practically adopted as a sibling before nodding she was back under control - and ready to hear more.

"Most of what Dumbledore claims is, or was, true. That he had all that information for over a decade - yet did nothing about it - makes us very suspicious over his claims to be the supposed 'Leader of the Light'. Dumbledore's greater good is exactly that - what's good for him. We have a top Italian Mind Healer visiting the Institute today to routinely check on Ginny - because she came into contact with one of these things. I'm sure he would take time to examine me as well, give you some practical evidence to back up what you're about to hear."

The Minister and Rosa would both be ecstatic just to be told things weren't as disastrous as they thought, although both appreciated corroborating evidence would go further in dismissing these claims.

"Near the end of our last term at Hogwarts, Lord Black, Hermione and myself came closer to death than any of us want to think about. I actually did receive a kiss from a dementor - not one of life's most pleasant experiences. The thing is, it sucked the part of Voldemort right out of me - and released my magic to previously unknown levels. I was able to cast a corporal patronus powerful enough to drive the entire swarm away before they could get their hands on Sirius or Hermione. I'm certain the horcrux is gone, and positive the Mind Healer will be able to confirm that."

The two Italians in the room felt their spirits lift at this news, but Harry wasn't finished yet.

"I destroyed the one that possessed Ginny in Hogwarts, Hermione and I actually found another hidden in the castle before we left. It was destroyed by using the same method that worked on the first. Before we left Britain for Italy, passing news of this evil to Gringotts saw another horcrux being found in one of their customer's vaults. The Goblins hate these things, as any rational being would, and came fully on board with destroying any more this monster had made."

It was Harry's turn to need something to drink, with Dobby instantly appearing with a cold glass of juice. Thanking the little guy, he took a couple of sips before continuing. "Curse Breaker Bill Weasley was assigned to join the team of myself, Hermione, Sirius and Remus who would actually hunt these things. Since they were in Britain, Amelia Bones, who was head of their DMLE at the time, joined the team too. We destroyed another at Voldemort's mother's old shack, and were actively planning on capturing what we knew to be the last remaining horcrux when it accidentally fell into goblin hands. We all really celebrated that news, as Voldemort had protected these monstrosities with lethal wards and deadly traps. He was mortal when the dragon killed him, there's no coming back from that."

The Minister began to relax for the first time since hearing of this, knowing healer evidence and corroboration from both Amelia Bones and Gringotts would satisfy even the most sceptical amongst them. He would be recommending immediately moving Dumbledore to trial, there was already a mountain of evidence that would see him found guilty of a multitude of charges.

"Really glad to hear that, Lord Potter. Now, something else we got out of Dumbledore was that the potion fed to the Longbottoms was infused with his magic. The antidote, that Professor de Marco led the creation of, will need to be infused with even more powerful magic than Dumbledore's to actually be effective. It will eventually wear off, but we could be looking at years for that to happen."

Harry was quiet for a few minutes as he and Hermione searched through Tom's vast knowledge, looking for a solution. "We might have a method to help, but would rather discuss it with Poppy, the mind healer and our potions Professor - before going anywhere near Neville or Augusta with this."

Since this could and would happen today, all quickly agreed to that plan. After discovering Harry didn't have death literally hanging over his head and the Dark Lord really was gone for good, both Italians present were ready to agree to practically anything this young man wanted.

-oOoOo-

Andi was beginning to regret telling the Minister that anyone was welcome to her demonstration lesson tonight. A small conference room at a local hotel had been hired to basically give the Grangers 'Introduction to Modern Studies' lesson to whoever showed up. She didn't bat an eyelash at the Minister arriving with Arthur Weasley, Griselda Marchbanks and another three people she didn't recognise. It was the party from Hogwarts that threw Andi off her stride.

Only having Ted there at her side allowed the witch to cope with the fact her pregnant sister and nephew were in the same room as her. After that, discovering the current Hogwarts Muggle Studies Professor was also in their party hardly bothered Andi at all - which was strange since she was effectively auditioning here to take that witch's job.

With Ted's arm around her, Andi was able to take a deep calming breath and start her lesson.

"Good evening everyone, and thank you for coming along tonight. What I plan to do here is give a basic introduction to the things you see around you - electric lights, the projector and my laptop to name but a few - and how they all work by electricity."

With Ted acting as her assistant, operating the laptop, passing out the samples of wire loaned from the Institute - he even demonstrating fuse blowing on the rig Dan had built - Andi taught her lesson. While playing the short video clips of the Institute's power and communication control cupboards, Andi also explained that the building they were currently sitting in would have something very similar to carry out the exact same functions.

At the end of her lesson, Ted used the laptop to log into a news channel. With the date and time clearly displayed, their guests could easily see this was live. After a few minutes, which Andi needed to gather her thoughts, Ted lowered the sound - which appeared to emphasise the silence in the room. As Arthur had the most experience of the Institute, it was perhaps understandable that it would be him who broke the silence.

"Outstanding Andi, Dan and Emma would be proud of that lesson."

Andi wasn't about to take credit for something that wasn't hers. "That lesson was designed by the Grangers, they've given me their entire course - including all the computer files too. Being there, and watching them teach - it really opened my eyes."

Cornelius had instigated this entire thing, and really couldn't sit here with his mouth hanging open any longer. He'd thought watching Augusta Longbottom using a phone was astonishing, this last hour just blew his mind.

"Mrs Tonks, I think I can speak for all of us when I say that is one of the most profound things we've ever seen. I'm really hoping you can answer my next question though, as I don't think there's another witch or wizard in this room who has the first clue how what we've just witnessed can possibly be taught at Hogwarts."

With a wry smile, Ted switched off the news program as a few pictures were now displayed in a slow loop on the screen by the hotel's projector.

Andi then explained the pictures. "This is the Muggle shopping area in Naples. The Institute's students all get opportunities to visit here, their Modern Studies and Italian languages classes providing the abilities to blend into their surroundings. Dan Granger took me into a shop selling technology and recommended the laptop computer you see there - Harry bought it for me and then Dan loaded all the files they had onto it."

Severus couldn't hold back any longer. "Why would Potter buy that for you? What's in it for him and his Institute?"

"Oh, that's quite simple - no one at the Potter Institute wants Hogwarts to close its doors. Yes they want the school to change, but not close. With that in mind, as well as arranging the hire of these facilities tonight, he's also making the following offer."

As new pictures were now being displayed, Andi once again offered an explanation to what they were seeing. "This is the proposed 'Lily Potter Faculty of Modern Studies'. It would be designed by the same architect who designed and built the Potter Institute, and her work redesigning and refurbishing the Black Orphanage is nothing short of miraculous. This team have the expertise that everyone in this room is sadly lacking, and figured out within minutes such facilities couldn't exist within a castle whose rooms have been bathed in magic for a millennium."

If a voice could be described as 'dusty', then Griselda's was as she asked the questions that cut right to the heart of the matter. "How much would something like this cost? Who would know how to furnish and equip this building? I don't even recognise half the stuff shown on these pictures, far less how they got up on that screen."

"I have no idea of the total cost, but can tell you exactly how much it will cost the Ministry and Hogwarts. Harry intends to pay for everything, including renewing all the electrical equipment as it becomes necessary. He described it to me like top of the range racing brooms - after five years they won't be the best anymore. Incidentally, that laptop sitting there cost more than the new Firebolt - and each of the computers for this faculty will cost about the same."

Severus just had to question Potter's motives again. "What does Potter and his Institute get out of this? Surely he must have a long list of demands? No one throws that amount of gold around for nothing."

"Other than not wanting Hogwarts to close, he has no hidden motives or other agenda here. He has requested the faculty be positioned at a certain part of Hogwarts grounds, but concedes that decision will be made by the architect. Her involvement - as well as the faculty's name - are non-negotiable , to be frank we're very lucky to have Francesca onboard. She's brilliant, and very busy - including getting married to Lord Black just before Christmas. She also thinks this building will be up and in use by the end of March, Francesca will provide firmer dates after visiting the site - if this proposal is accepted by you. One other small point, Ted assisted me greatly tonight. Dan and Emma Granger effortlessly switch roles between teaching and operating the equipment. I would need an assistant professor, preferably one who was more knowledgeable than me on the equipment side - and could keep it all maintained and running. Harry has no intention of paying this person's salary, that will have to be picked up by the Ministry or Hogwarts."

It was now Arthur's turn to bombard Andi with questions, without giving her time to answer any. Andi eventually put both her hands in the air to signal her surrender, as an embarrassed Arthur stopped speaking.

"I don't know the answer to most of those questions, Arthur, and I don't have to. Pomona explained to me that they sat down with Francesca and gave her a list of what they wanted, she returned with drawings that explained how that would happen. Everyone had an input before Francesca turned those ideas into the most amazing place I've ever been. We have to be honest here and say none of us would even know what to ask for. We have an expert available, who will take the knowledge she gained from building the Institute to make this faculty the best it can be. Harry only pays for the best, with Francesca Rossi's involvement that's exactly what we would be getting."

Having been happy staying in the background all evening, Ted felt obliged to raise an important point here.

"When Francesca visited the Ministry, she ended up with a wand at her throat. The way squibs are treated in this country is scandalous, certainly worse than myself as a muggle born. Here's the thing though, she's Italian - where that kind of discrimination simply doesn't happen and certainly wouldn't be tolerated - and one of that country's most sought after architects. By the time she comes to start this project, she will also be the Lady Black. Anyone insulting her over blood status - or lack of magic - would not only see the wrath of Houses Black and Potter descend on them but you would have an international incident on your hands too. Without Francesca, this project doesn't even get off the ground. There is no expertise within Magical Britain to even attempt this, and Harry certainly wouldn't pay for something not up to the same standards as the Institute."

While agreeing with every word her husband just said, Andi maybe wouldn't have stated it so bluntly. "Minister Fudge, we all support what you're trying to do here. It's not just the right thing to do, it's the only thing we can do to try and save our society. We only spent one weekend visiting the Institute and Naples but already feel safe in saying the vast majority of the students attending there won't want to return to Britain by the time they graduate. Without change, without this faculty, it's not only Hogwarts days that are numbered."

"Is this Institute really that good?"

Hearing that from Draco made Andi smile. "While the facilities and Professors are world class, the thing that amazed me most was the atmosphere. It was so welcoming, so inclusive. We were there while the monthly family visits were taking place. Those students who had their families visit were understandably ecstatic, but their friends were very happy for them too. Whether it was because their parents had visited before, or were scheduled to visit later in the term, I never saw one bit of jealousy all weekend. Every student is treated exactly the same, a policy that includes the school's owner, and that policy is working incredibly well for them."

Nodding in agreement, Arthur had spent more time at the Institute than anyone else in the room. "That's a great observation, Andi, and one I totally agree with. The change in my own children is nothing short of astonishing. Ginny's coming on by leaps and bounds, Ron has really embraced learning Italian and the twins haven't pulled a prank since leaving Hogwarts. Percy thoroughly enjoys working there, and says he's learning so much. I also agree with your earlier point, Molly and I think we'll need to travel to Italy to visit any grandchildren they have in the future. Amelia's ahead of the game and is already working out there."

This was Cornelius's worst fear happening right in front of him, the haemorrhaging of witches and wizards from the shores of Britain to pastures new. Every single person in the room understood Hogwarts desperately needed this new faculty, and here it was offered at a price and timeline the Minister of Magic couldn't even have dreamed of.

"Mrs Tonks, the Ministry and Hogwarts will be delighted to accept Lord Potter's incredible offer. I would also like to congratulate you on an amazing presentation, the Hogwarts students will be lucky to have you. Congratulations on being appointed Head of the Lily Potter Faculty of Modern Studies."

While Andi appeared delighted, her sister spotted where her eyes had travelled to. These Black sisters spoke for the first time in two decades. "Andi, Charity is retraining to replace Binns - she will be our new History of Magic Professor. That lesson was amazing! Congratulations, and welcome to our new Hogwarts family."

Andi was lost for words, while shedding tears and wearing a massive smile. Charity tried to help out Hogwarts newest Professor. "From where I'm sitting, that looks like a stellar decision on my part. Outstanding lesson, Professor Tonks - and none of what you've shown us here is part of the current Muggle Studies curriculum. You really have torn the book up and written your own."

"Oh no, as I said earlier, the Grangers really have to take the credit for that. They were thinking of books to recommend for coursework, but seem to be leaning towards lists of web addresses." Spotting the blank looks, she went over to her laptop and typed in a web address, while giving a quick explanation of what a web address was. Those looks changed from blank to shocked and astonishment at the information Andi was able to pull up on the screen by pushing some buttons.

They were still sitting stunned when Ted returned with a couple of the hotel staff, who laid out a small buffet and drinks. Ted figured he'd be making a trip to the bar soon, tea, coffee or juice wouldn't be enough for some people here.

Cornelius thanked Ted for the glass of brandy, before he approached Andi. "I really would like to thank Lord Potter personally for such a gift, I'm sure Headmaster Snape would too. Is there any way we could visit the Institute - even over the holidays if it was more convenient for him?"

This had Andi immediately shaking her head. "Certainly not over the holidays. The entire Black Orphanage is spending Christmas at the Institute, planning for this apparently started back in August. Everyone is so looking forward to it, with Sirius and Francesca coming back from their honeymoon to spend Christmas with everyone."

This news had Cornelius puzzled. "I've not heard anything about that?"

A smiling Arthur joined the conversation. "Molly and I will be there to help, we did the same when Harry took the children to his house during summer while their new orphanage was being made ready. You might see some pictures in the Quibbler after the event. I already know what those pictures will show, children having a great time - and Harry won't feature in any of them. I've never met anyone who shuns their fame as much as Harry does."

"There are students from Hogwarts spending Christmas there too, visiting friends and probably lending a helping hand looking after the orphans. Relax, Minister, they're all too old to attend the Institute as students. That was also a very smart move making Professor Tonks a Head of Faculty. She should be on the same salary as a Head of House, and anyone skilled enough to act as her assistant salaried as a full professor. We need good people so have to pay the salaries to attract and keep them there. As my wife has already said, Professor Tonks, that was simply an amazing lesson."

"Thank you, Headmaster. When I phone Harry to tell him this proposal has been accepted, that will put things into motion. Francesca will start on the detailed drawings the builders will need, and try to work a date when she can visit Hogwarts to plot a suitable site for the new faculty. I will of course mention that the Minister and yourself would like to visit the Institute, and am sure he'll pass that request on to Pomona."

"Won't it be Potter who makes that decision?" Andi and Arthur laughed at Severus's question.

"Harry is certainly the owner, but during term time he insists on being treated the same as the other students. He appointed Pomona as Headmistress and expects her to run the school, which she does fantastically well. Nothing happens at the Institute without her approval, she is most definitely in charge." Arthur was still chuckling, now more at the confused expressions on the faces of the Minister and the Snapes.

Nursing her third brandy, Griselda approached with her problem. "I hardly understood any of that tonight. How in the name of Merlin is my department supposed to examine students sitting that course?"

Andi though was having a stellar evening, and was glad the Grangers had already prepared her with an answer to that as well. She really couldn't thank them enough, before thinking it was their future son-in-law who was making this entire thing possible. For Andi, seeing her sister talking with Ted was proof these changes really could work. Once more Harry Potter was stepping in to save Britain, and once more he wouldn't want any credit for his actions.

-oOoOo-

The third Black sister was having a totally different type of evening, Bella was once more ranting at her current lot in life. "Living like a fucking muggle again, if you can call this living! How long is it going to take the bloody Ministry to announce the date of this second task?"

Her three companions were listing with one ear, having heard this many, many times before. There was also the fact that Bella's bloodlust had been somewhat sated when the owners of the last place they'd been hiding out had unexpectedly turned up. Bella had vented her frustration on the middle aged couple for hours, their screams pushing the silencing charms to the very limit.

Since Bella really couldn't use magic to torture the muggles, she'd been forced to get creative. They then had to burn the house down, again using muggle methods so as not to attract the Ministry's attention. Whether the muggle authorities discovered the victims had been tortured before being murdered was neither here nor there to them. With no magic being used, and more than enough psychos in the Muggle world to go around, no one would be looking for four dead Death Eaters.

The three wizards though all recognised this reprieve from Bella's murderous tendencies was only temporary. They needed the Ministry to announce the date of this second task quickly, allowing Bella to focus her dark tendencies on something - and someone - else. What in the name of Merlin was holding them up?