Chapter 7
Hogwarts
Harry sat to the left of the head's chair and said good morning to everyone. Dora put up the privacy charms.
"Headmistress I tried to get Alastor Moody as a Defense teacher but he is more interested in doing what he enjoys the most. But he didn't say no to a year or so from now. It looks like Malfoy, Snape, and Dumbledore are going down hard. The first two will probably be executed. Dumbledore will be ruined financially and his reputation shredded, he may even get some jail time. It seems like child abuse is not taken lightly in the wizard world. Then I got all unpopular with Madam Bones and Croaker. I don't know why, all I said was I'm opening my school up to all magical beings that speak our language in two years." Harry said with a wicked smile.
Dora grinned then said, "Harry it may be the Vampire and Werewolf part, although it could have been the Goblin and elves that got their knickers in a twist."
Harry replied, "You're probably right Dora. Anyway, I had to remind them this is my school and my Earldom and the Ministry has no authority here. I did temper that with a willingness to keep them informed as in the past. Ah yes, Dumbledore wasn't very good at that so better than in the past. But I told them Aurors had no authority here unless I gave it. Long story short, Madam Bones threatened to remove my guard so she now works for me and is in charge of security."
His curiosity showing Harry asked, "Madam Pomfrey how many students do we have in school on the average?"
"Close to 300."
"And you're the only healer on staff, that's bull. You're in charge of the hospital wing find three more healers you trust, I want one on duty 24/7 in eight hour shifts with weekends covered, if that doesn't work out then hire as many as you need. St. Mungo's sent a friggin Death Eater here and that will not happen again. Tonks will hire a security staff to patrol the halls, the prefects need to be studying and acting like teenagers, not policing other students. Have you thought over what I said about Hogsmeade?" Harry said in full owner's mode now.
"There is no real reason we can find, and nothing in the bylaws. Possibly someone decided first and second year students weren't mature enough to be on their own. My input would be to send permission slips with their book lists for the first three years, and then keep the third year one on file." Pomona replied.
"That sounds reasonable Headmistress, any other comments on that subject?" Harry asked and paused for a response but there were none.
"Alright then I have something else for you to think about. Why are we teaching only five hours a day? Muggle students go eight hours a day beginning at age ten, actual instruction is about six hours. In what is our third year, they do eight hours a day plus homework and other activities. My other question is why there is only one Professor for each subject. That puts us in a bind if someone gets sick or has an emergency. If it's a budget problem let me know." Harry took a sip of tea while his statements had a chance to settle in.
"This castle is too large to support just 300 students we could be teaching at least 1000 in the room we have. Headmistress, please pick a day soon after the student leave for a meeting on the facility needs. All of us need to think of some new courses to offer. I'm thinking an introduction to the wizard world for first generation students. This would cover laws, etiquette, methods of travel and so forth. Has anyone thought of offering a Master's program at night for adults? Do we really need to be a boarding school? Let's think outside the box we're in, and forget how things were done in the past, it's gone, we need to think about the future." Harry paused again.
"Our future will be in the hands of those who graduate Hogwarts. For the best future, we need to turn out the best and the brightest possible. From what I've seen we seem to be teaching to the lowest common denominator. That stops at the end of this term, we need to teach to the world standard or above that if we're to be the best. Sorry I'll get down off the soapbox but I want the best for our world. Ah, one other thing, what is the earliest a student can take OWLs and NEWTs and who or what states that criterion?"
Silence.
Harry shook his head and sighed. "Ok I'll check that one out. If possible, I'll have my NEWTs by September. For your info, and this not to be disseminated, Hermione Granger and I are betrothed as of last evening. The houses of Granger and Tonks are under protection of my houses and we are allied. The first part will probably be in the Daily Prophet today or tomorrow but the last had better not be before the next Wizengamot meeting. Who among you knows Augusta Longbottom well?'
"I do Harry." Minerva replied.
"Do me and Neville a favor and let her know that Neville needs a wand that matches him. Frank's wand needs to be placed above the mantle in a place of honor along with Alice's wand. As Ollivander, so aptly states, the wand chooses the wizard. Madam Longbottom should know that. You might suggest there is a chance for a wand to be broken at school as accidents do happen. And thank you Professor McGonagall."
"Now my last item, I would prefer if you all called me Harry rather than lord something or Mr. Potter unless we are in a formal setting outside of this school. If no one has anything else to discuss I'm finished." Harry said with a smile.
Filius looked at Harry and said, "Harry I notified my four wayward students of your meeting after breakfast. They will spend most of their summer writing a 15,000 word essay on why bullying is wrong. Plus they will have to list at least 20 references."
Harry shocked them all when he said, "Thank you Professor Flitwick. Now for the good news, there will be a bit of a salary increase as of the first of the month your salaries increased by 50 percent. And as I told Professor McGonagall, no Professor will hold more than two positions, it just isn't right and I believe it's detrimental to both the students and the teacher."
Harry slipped Pomona a note that said 100 percent increase. Harry noticed the four Ravenclaws were finished eating so he and Dora stopped at the Ravenclaw table.
"Ladies, please follow me and my chief of security, Miss Tonks, we will escort you to my temporary office and get this over with."
Harry led them to his quarters where Dobby was waiting with tea and coffee.
Harry didn't hesitate and said, "I'm not sure what Professor Flitwick has told you, but I'll start from the beginning. In a few words I own Hogwarts and am the Earl of Hogsmeade so I own it also. You four have been bullying Luna Lovegood almost since the day she arrived here. Is this true Lady Hogwarts?"
"Yes my Lord Gryffindor."
"Now I don't know what you four know about Luna, but I will tell you this, two years or so ago that girl watched her mother die in a horrible accident. It happened when a curse Mia was developing went horribly wrong. Her father's mental defense mechanism was to see creatures only he can see, many of which are based in legend from the time of Merlin. With that as an example, like the most nine-year olds she followed her Dad's example. Do you know or care that she is at the top of her year, and has gained more house points than you four combined?" Harry stated in a neutral tone.
"No we didn't know that," answered Cho.
"Do you know my initial reaction was to send you home with the four Slytherins expelled and disgraced?" staying with his neutral tone.
"Yes."
Harry continued, "Well you four are on probation the rest of this year and the next. One toe over the line and you are out of here period. I will not tolerate bullies, I put up with it for years. As you now know Hogwarts watches all student activity and reports to me. You may want to spread that word and save others some trouble. By the way, I also know what goes on in Hogsmeade as well. Do you have any questions?"
"Am I off the Quidditch team?" Cho asked.
Harry changed to a softer tone of voice and replied. "That is your Head of House's decision, not mine Ms. Chang. If you aren't, you'll have a chance to catch the snitch against Gryffindor next year. I'm going into special training and will not be a part of any house."
Cho sat a bit straighter and answered. "Well I'd say it was pleasant flying against you but I'd be lying. You're an animal in the air, but I did learn some things. And you're the best flyer I've seen Harry."
A smiling Harry told the third year girl, "Cho you could be great but you lack the confidence you need. You need to learn your broom's and your own limits. Learn to feel with your magic. I can sense a bludger approaching or a goal post while I'm keep track of the snitch. I know what my broom and I can to together."
"Harry thanks for not expelling us. We deserve the punishment. Also thanks for telling us about Luna we really didn't know. But we made no effort to find out either," Cho said as the elected spokesperson for the group of Ravenclaws.
"You're welcome unless you have anything else, we're finished."
The girls didn't so they excused themselves and left.
"You probably just saved those girls form a lonely life. Most men don't like bullying women no matter how pretty they are." Dora said with a smile.
Harry told her, "For some reason I'm not sure I reached Edgecombe, but I meant every word I said."
Meeting with the Weasleys
At 09:25, Dora answered a knock on the portrait. It was McGonagall and the Weasley boys.
"Percy asked me to attend this meeting as Head of House Gryffindor," She said.
"No problem, Professor you're more than welcome. Come in and sit please, tea or coffee?"
After getting drinks and taking their seats Harry started, "I'll start with Ron since he has class the next period. First off, Ronald you're on scholastic probation, which means if you fail one class next year, you're out of Hogwarts. You're more interested in chess and Quidditch than learning. Your problem now is that I own Hogwarts and intend to make it the best school in the world. As such, class work comes first, middle, and last period. If you or anyone else can't hack it you're gone to another school, home schooled, or whatever. That's not my personal problem, or Hogwarts as a school's problem, it's yours and your parents to deal with. Do you have any questions so far?"
After a wait Harry continued, "Now you have another issue and that is your table manners. Atrocious is not a strong enough word. Eat like a human in the Great Hall or eat alone in the antechamber. You eat more than any other four students do. Well it's my Galleons you're eating on so that also stops, you will get no more than two helpings. Now for the real kick in the balls, you were not only paid to spy on me you were promised Hermione by Dumbledore. Well that's a promise he can't keep because she is betrothed to me and under the protection of my house. Do you know what that means?"
Silence
"Damn it, answer the fucking question Ronald Weasley do you know what her betrothal to me means a simple yes or no will do!"
"Yes it means you get every fucking thing you want," Ron stated fiercely with hate in his eyes.
"No it means if you or a member of your family mess with either of us in any way you're dead, and a blood feud is called against the House of Weasley and I kill every Weasley. It's that fucking simple Ronald. Lady Hogwarts is what I just said true?" Harry asked the castle as his magic flared to a point it was almost stifling.
"Yes except that since I'm part of your house, declaration of a blood feud puts me into the battle mode and I annihilate all Weasleys present in the Earldom, Lord Gryffindor."
"Thank you for the information My Lady."
Harry drew his magic back to a point that it was still there but not oppressive. "The next statement includes all four of you. Dumbledore has been paying your mother ₲500 a month from my trust account. Most of that has been recovered thus keeping her out of Azkaban. The other thing he did was provide all Weasleys with a free education. Well boys that stops at the end of this term. Your education is not my personal problem it's up to your parents to provide for you. Ronald, I waved what you were paid for your small part in the Chamber of Secrets incident. The truth is all you did was slow me down, then lose your wand to Lockhart which had it not been broken would have got you, Ginny, and me plus others killed and Voldemort returned to a body. I need you like I need a 50 pound stone around my neck. That is to say not at all. As far as I'm concerned, I'm finished with you so you can stay or go it's your choice."
The he turned to Percy. "Now to Mr. Percy Weasley, you are on thin ice with me personally because, in a few words, I see you as a self-serving prick that lords what little power he has over others. That ought to get you a janitorial job at your beloved Ministry. What are you good for except to try and get others in trouble? Oh, yes you do a fair compulsion charm, use it on Miss Clearwater again and Hogwarts will take you down. Do I speak true my Lady?"
"You speak truth Lord Gryffindor."
"You Percy are almost as jealous as Ronald. Use your wand except in the classroom or practice room just once more and you're gone. Do you understand Percy?" Harry said with ice in his voice.
Percy ducked his head and said, "Yes I understand."
With a cold tone of voice Harry said, "Good, take Ronald and get out of my sight."
"You know Professor McGonagall these are things Dumbledore should have been doing not me." Harry said almost as a question.
Here face showed shock as she asked, "Albus knew all of this?"
"Yes you can ask the portraits and ghosts." Harry looked at Fred and George and asked, "Now what the hell am I going to do with you two? I'll not tolerate bullying but want students to have fun as well. When I first looked into the Marauders, I was livid at the way my father bullied certain students. But backing off and seeing a bigger picture I saw that it was a time of war and they only went after teachers, a whole house, or Voldemort supporters."
Harry sipped his tea and continued. "I still don't agree with their methods but they worked with the skills they had. I think their reputation has been blown out of proportion quite a bit. They definitely were good, but also got caught quite a lot. However, the one that changed Professor McGonagall's robes transparent was the one that Dad and Sirius were punished most for. They were innocent and Mum got away clean on that one, Dad and Sirius took the fall laughing because Mum got away clean."
A shocked Minerva asked, "Harry you're saying Lily did that to me."
"Yep, and Professor Flitwick changing colors and singing I'm a Little Teapot was her as well," A grinning Harry replied.
Minerva huffed and said, "Well me being nude wasn't funny, but Filius singing while changing colors darn sure was."
"Professor it's a matter of perspective, ask Professor Flitwick which was funnier and I'm sure he will say what happened to you. Do you see guys where that's a problem? What's funny to one is embarrassing to the other. Most first and second year avoid you two, while sixth and seventh hope you'll try something on them so they can do you bodily harm. Neither group gets much studying done so you're detrimental to their careers and life. Look, Voldemort isn't dead, that's been proven the last two years in a row. You want to start a business, look into providing hats, capes, robes, or something that will shield someone long enough to escape."
"If you want to do jokes, do wands that turn into chickens, ferrets, or something else. But don't do something a Death Eater could use against others. The non-magicals have a weapon that is thrown or launched, it's timed to explode and send out small pieces of metal that can tear a body apart. It's meant to take out small groups in one swoop. I'm sure the Aurors would be interested in something like that, if it can be keyed so the Death Eaters can't use it." Harry paused long enough for that to sink in.
He continued in what would be known as his business mode. "I own shares in several companies that supply muggle armies with weapons, and those stocks are very lucrative making me piles of money. Ronald would think I'm bragging, but I'm trying to point out there is a lot of ways you two can make a fortune. You come to me with the right idea and I'll back you with the money, for a percentage of course. But keep on the path you're on and you're out of here."
"You'd back us for something like that?" The twins asked as one voice.
A smiling Harry replied, "Oh hell yes. Hey, I want you successful, and then I'm successful in my investment. You can ask Dora, I don't throw money around, or give it away. But, I'll damn sure help others. However, keep in mind that you'll have to hit the books hard and be successful in class. The better you do in class the more apt a Professor is to give you extra help."
"George the Boy-Who-Lived makes sense, who would have thunk it?"
"He definitely does brother of mine, I'm in."
"Me too, all right Harrykins you have our attention and we'll put ourselves to work and work hard. We're not going to promise to be at the top of the class, we don't need that sort of attention from Mum. Now tell us more about this exploding device please." Fred stated showing his excitement at things that exploded.
"Picture a ball about three times the size of a snitch filled with a potion that explodes based on the time from when it's thrown. Inside with the potion are small balls that are charmed to increase in size and duplicate themselves every one hundredth of a second after the potion explodes. These small balls are called shrapnel and will go through any magic shield and rip apart what they hit." Harry said watching McGonagall shudder at the thought.
"So I'm on the roof of the Three Broomsticks as an example, and a group of Death Eaters apparate in together. I toss this ball among them and it explodes either killing or severely wounding them. Its small, doesn't weigh much, can be launched with something like a sling shot to get more distance, and tears up Death Eaters. Harry you're a bloody genius, George we have lots of studying to do my brother." George observed.
Fred remarked, "Yes bro, Harry what do we charge for something like that?"
Now Harry went into full business mode with a smile. "Ok, figure it like this. Take the cost of materials and double that. Then add in what you charge for your time plus a small percentage of the time it takes to develop the product. When you arrive at the cost of labor and development multiply that by 1.5 and add the cost of materials. Discount big orders, for example if I buy 100 give me a 5 percent discount. If I buy 500 give me at 10 percent discount and so forth."
"Fred me thinks the lad is part Goblin."
"Yes George but he makes a lot of sense."
"Guys, be sure you get contracts for specific amounts, and delivery times as well as a payment schedule. You may or may not get up-front money from the buyer, but be sure of who you're dealing with. Patent what you develop and shield your charms so no one can steal your idea and sell something similar." Harry advised the twins as Dora nodded her agreement.
"We bow to superior knowledge 'O great one. I guess we'll have to go back and listen to Ron and Percy bitch."
"You're right Fred."
Harry pointed at the coffee table and said, "Guys, take that magazine titled Jane's Guide to Military Weapons. I think you'll find it interesting. If you have nothing else I guess were finished with the meeting. Sad faces and moaning about how horrible I become may be appropriate."
The twins left but Minerva stayed and said, "I think you just may have saved those two Harry."
Harry now relaxed a bit and said, "Then it's five or six for the morning Minerva. Cho Chang and her little group may have turned the corner also. We're concerned about Marietta Edgecombe and not sure she got the point."
"If she didn't Filius and Pomona will have her out of here. The ten Slytherins are gone." Minerva replied with slight smile.
"I'll bet Malfoy was saying 'when my father hears this' over and over."
"That and where is my wand. Potter can't keep it, it's mine, when my father gets his hands on Potter…" Minerva almost giggled and Dora's eyebrows tried to reach her hairline.
"He may be in a bind unless he has a spare. I doubt he can afford a new one. He damn sure couldn't afford next year tuition unless it was already paid." Harry stated with huge grin.
"Harry I thought the Malfoys were rich," said a shocked Minerva.
Harry's smile was almost feral when he replied, "Were, is the operative word, between the two male Malfoy's attacking me I wiped them out, and they still owe me over three million. The six idiots from Slytherin got the same treatment. They still owe me money. Sooner or later the word will get out messing with Harry Potter is detrimental to your health and your bank account."
Minerva seemed lost in thought for a few minutes before saying, "Harry what you said earlier about the castle caused something to click in my memory. When I started here, we had close to 900 students and three teachers for each subject. One did the first three years, another did years four and five, and the third did years six and seven. We rotated every term so the students had access to all the teachers. The emphasis was on the practical until the sixth year."
Harry slipped into his owner's mode seamlessly. "We'll get there again I want this school full of happy students and staff. Are there any egress points in case we're attacked? I know we have strong wards but any ward can be broken, it's just a matter of time. We need a way to get the non-combatants out."
McGonagall replied, "I just don't know. I would think there is because the school was built in perilous times. You wouldn't have to ask if Hogwarts knew so if there are, it must have been done before she became a sentient being."
Minerva was more surprised after Harry told her, "Ragnok found out something very interesting. It seems there are two more Hogwarts vaults, which have never been used. Well three if you count the one Dumbledore was funneling money into apparently to fund his Order of the Phoenix. The interest alone will quadruple our budget that will help us hire the best and pay them a good salary."
"I shouldn't feel this way but I'm beginning to hate Albus more each day." Minerva said with sadness in her voice.
"Professor there is no doubt in my mind he was trying to destroy our world and build one to suit him. I wonder if that's why he and his brother had a falling out." Harry replied.
"My Lord Gryffindor the Minister, his Undersecretary, ten Aurors, and two dementors are at the gate demanding entry."
"Can you fry the dementors as they come through the gate?"
"Yes My Lord"
"Please make it as spectacular as you are able. Let Fudge, the Undersecretary, and the dementors through the gate. Send the Aurors to Hogsmeade but keep them bound to the middle of the village. Dora, are you ready to do something except relax."
Meeting with the Minister.
The entire school heard, "Minister you, your undersecretary, and your dementors may come through the gate. The Aurors will be sent to Hogsmeade, you are trespassing in the Earldom of Hogsmeade."
"Dora, who is the undersecretary?"
"Delores Umbridge or Umbitch as most call her, she is a real piece of shit."
Harry and Dora watched as Fudge, Umbridge, and the dementors crossed the gate. When the dementors reached a certain ward they began howling and screeching until they exploded in fireworks that read "Welcome to the Earldom of Hogsmeade dementors are not allowed."
Fudge and Umbridge tried to go back through the gate and found they could only go forward to the school where Harry and Dora waited.
"Fudge you dare come into my Earldom uninvited with ten Aurors and two dementors, why are you declaring war on me?" Harry said allowing his magic to flare.
Umbridge opened her mouth before Fudge could reply. "Hem Hem, Boy you can't talk to the Minister like that."
"Silence Umbitch you are not the power here I am. Now why are you here?"
"We came to arrest you," Fudge stated sticking his chest out.
A curious Harry asked, "On what charges?"
Fudge smiled and answered, "Maiming pureblood students, underage magic, and several lesser charges."
Harry had him and knew it, "What's the penalty for drawing a wand on a Lord of an Ancient Most Noble House?"
"Death," Fudge replied.
Harry asked, "So I should have killed them, is that what you're saying?"
Fudge went white and said, "Well no, not really."
Harry looked at him with an evil grin and asked, "Then why are you here?"
"I was told you plan to allow Goblins, elves, and other magical creatures attend this school and as Minister I forbid it." Fudge stated proudly not expecting what was to come next.
"Get two things through that fucking thick skull of yours. One, this is my school and my Earldom and you have no authority here. If you want war, you will have one. Two, since you came here uninvited to remove me from what is mine I declare the two of you my prisoners. Your Aurors will be allowed to leave and told to seek an invitation to return or the next time they die at the Earldom's boundary. Now let's get to the truth of the matter, Fudge you're pissed because I cut off your source of bribe money. Umbitch is pissed because I will allow all magicals to have an education. Keep in mind I could have had you killed at the gate. Lady Hogwarts, place these two in the worst cells in the dungeon they may have bread and water as well as a chamber pot and one blanket." Harry was in near battle mode now and his magic kicked up another notch.
"As you say so shall it be, My Lord."
"Harry, Madam Bones will act pissed but I'm betting she'll be laughing her ass off." Dora stated.
"You may be right but I want the Grangers here ASAP. Hogwarts please lock down the grounds to all but the staff, the Grangers, Sirius Black, the Tonkses, Amelia Bones, Croaker, and Ragnok's people."
"It is done My Lord."
"Thank you."
"Let's go get our families."
Harry and Tonks disappeared then reappeared in the Granger's back garden. A brown haired missile came rushing at Harry. He had to swing her around to keep his balance.
Harry grinned and asked, "Miss me much?"
"Yes, you git," She replied and slapped his chest lightly.
"Come on we need to move to Hogwarts there are things afoot and I don't have time to explain." Harry said seriously.
"It probably has to do with several Aurors being bounced off the wards to who knows where."
"I imagine it does Dora," Harry agreed with his chief of security.
They entered the kitchen and the Tonks' were sitting at the table with the Grangers. Harry quickly explained what happened at Hogwarts then had Tinker pack the Grangers clothes and seal -the house, which was now a fortress. Harry set the wards so the Tonks' could apparate from the kitchen telling them to think of the Hogwarts entry hall. In a matter of minutes, the Granger house disappeared from the eyes and minds of wizards.
Return to Hogwarts
Shortly after arriving, Harry sent Dobby with a letter to the editor of the Daily Prophet.
22 May 1993
Dear Michael,
This is to notify you of the following, which requires a special edition of the Daily Prophet.
Today, at approximately 10:15, the Minister of Magic declared war on the Earldom of Hogsmeade. He brought his Undersecretary, ten Aurors, and two Dementors into my Earldom to arrest me for defending myself. This by definition is a declaration of war. The Dementors were destroyed by the Hogwarts wards, the Aurors were ejected unharmed, and the Minister along with his lackey Madam Umbitch, were arrested and are now political prisoners of the Earldom.
They are currently being interrogated by Lady Hogwarts. Initial findings are that Minister Fudge is unhappy because I cut off his source of bribe money from Death Eaters. Madam Umbitch is unhappy that I plan to allow all magical beings access to an education at Hogwarts. Their plan was to have me kissed by a Dementor, accidently of course. If the Ministry and Wizengamot decide to try these individuals for the crime of attempted murder of a Lord, I will provide them unharmed the day of the trial. If not they will be executed at the end of 72 hours, and their bodies returned to the Ministry. I will take the refusal for a trial as confirmation that the Ministry has declared war on my Earldom. I will deal with only two people from the Ministry, Madam Bones, and/or Croaker.
Harry James Potter
Earl of Hogsmeade
Earl of Inverness
Earl of Aberdeen
Copy to Her Majesty Elizabeth II
"Well that should set the Ministry and wizard world on its ear," stated Ted.
"Did anyone get a Daily Prophet today? I don't remember seeing one." Harry asked.
"Harry it came about an hour late," Hermione replied.
"Tinker bring me the Daily Prophet please."
Harry was interested in three headlines.
Lucius Malfoy charged with attempted murder
Severus Snape confirmed an active Death Eater
Albus Dumbledore charged with multiple counts of theft and child abuse
The stories were pretty much the way things happened with the exception of Malfoy and Snape naming names of Death Eaters. Harry was surprised and pleased there was nothing about his and Hermione's betrothal yet.
Harry suggested the Tonks show Dan and Emma around the castle with Dora providing security that wasn't needed.
"You just want rid of us so you two can snog Harry," Dora said with a smile.
"Shut it Dora. We'll meet in the Great Hall for lunch at 11:30." Harry replied with a silly grin firmly in place.
While they kissed and kissed a lot, Harry and Hermione also had Hogwarts set up the suite so that she, her parents, and the Tonks had nice bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. The common room was expanded and a dining room added that was open to the common room. Harry set the password to 'victory' while Hermione wanted it to be green-eyed seeker.
At lunch, the Grangers were introduced to the staff. Harry stood and got every ones attention.
"Students, a state of war exists between the Ministry and the Earldoms of Aberdeen, Inverness, and Hogsmede. Those Earldoms and this school are in a state of lockdown. This means no one can come or go without my permission except for Madam Bones and Croaker from the Ministry. Feel free to go about your normal activities with the exception of not entering the Forbidden Forest since there are some horrible wards in place there."
Harry paused for effect then added, "For you that have never seen one Hagrid tells me he has a Unicorn that is willing to be viewed. This is a rare event, so please threat the being with respect and follow Professor Kettleburn and Hagrid's instruction on how to view it. One thing, you may not take your wand near a Unicorn so secure it before you go to the Care of Magical Creatures area."
That started quite a buzz throughout the Great Hall.
"Lord Gryffindor, Mr. Sirius Black has entered the Hogwarts gate. And I will insure the Unicorn is protected, any wand taken within the area will be destroyed."
"Thank you my Lady."
Chapter 8Meeting a new Minister and Sirius Black
Harry's group went to the entry doors to meet Sirius.
"Harry?"
"Yes Padfoot, it's me. The lovely lady is my betrothed Hermione Granger, her parents Dan and Emma Granger, the lovely pink haired lady is Dora Tonks, and her parents. Before we go in I want to show all of you something but I'll need your wands."
The wands were handed over and Harry led the group to Hagrid's hut to see the Unicorn.
"Harry it's gorgeous," Hermione gushed and Harry looked at her and smiled.
"Yes, it's almost as gorgeous as you my love. Supposedly only a virgin girl can approach one but it seems she is coming to us as a group." Harry said with a grin.
"She knows you mean no harm my Lord."
"Thank you Lady Hogwarts."
The Unicorn let everyone pet her but she kept nuzzling Harry. Harry patted its cheek and they went back to the Gryffindor suite, which now had one more bedroom. After Sirius ate his lunch, they sat for a talk.
"Sirius you look better than I expected."
"I've spent the last three days in St. Mungos on a potions regimen. I heard my godson caused quite as stir there by exposing a healer as a Death Eater. The Director then had everyone checked by Aurors and they found two more. Then I heard you ticked off Amelia Bones so I made like a shepherd and got the flock out of there to the three broomsticks and from there to here."
"From the frying pan into the fire, we're in a state of war." Harry stated with a smile.
"Harry, start from the beginning and amuse me please," Sirius requested.
Harry did as Sirius wanted causing his godfather to set his jaw several times. At 15:00, three copies of the Daily Prophet special edition arrived. Harry looked at the headline and smiled.
Ministry Declares War on Three Earldoms
Harry's letter was printed exactly how it was written. The Daily Prophet called on all wizards to find out what was going and what the fools at the Ministry were thinking. Another headline startled Harry.
Her Majesty Elizabeth II Responds to Declaration of War by Ministry
Her Majesty states clearly, she has not given permission for a declaration of war. She removes Fudge from office and named Amelia Bones as new Minister. She requests Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin and Minister Bones's presence in her chamber for a working lunch tomorrow. Each party can bring up to six advisors. It is this reporters hope that the parties realize a request from the Queen is a command stated nicely. This is to be a private meeting. The last time a meeting such as this occurred was one her father called at the beginning of what the muggles call World War II.
What was Fudge thinking? Why were there Dementors near our children? Thank you Lord Gryffindor, for keeping those abominations called Dementors far from the students. There may have been a feeding frenzy. It seems to this reporter the only one with a brain was Lord Gryffindor. Why does Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin know more about the law than Minister Fudge does? Will the three Earldoms totally split from the Ministry, which is their right? If that happens, will Harry Potter help in the fight when Voldemort returns? The way he has been treated why should he?
For a background on Cornelius Fudge and Dolores Umbridge see pages 3 and 4, background on the treaty between the Earldoms and the Ministry see page 5.
"Lord Gryffindor, Minister Bones, and Mr. Croaker are at the Hogwarts gate."
"Thank you my lady, I will meet them in the entry hall." Harry replied and waited in the entry hall. Then he escorted the two guests to his quarters.
"This room is secured and anything said here stays here unless the individuals talk about it. What can I do for you two?" Harry asked in his business mode.
"I have a letter from the Queen she asked me to deliver. You apparently put the proverbial bee in her bonnet. She was livid Harry, firing Fudge and Umbridge on the spot and making me Minister. She says what happens to Fudge and Umbridge is not her problem, and it's between us. She also let me know you have every right to execute them both with no interference from the Ministry. She wants us in her chambers at 10:00 and as you read, you can take six advisors. I would suggest dress robes of the highest quality for wizards and tuxedos or appropriate gowns for muggles. What the hell happened?"
"Almost exactly what the Daily Prophet said except Umbitch planned a slow death and taking over Hogwarts then driving all first generation and half bloods out. She has several dark objects in her desk and in her safe at her home. Fudge didn't care he just wants his money source back. Both support Moldyshorts but are unmarked. I'll have you list of the others in the Ministry that also support Moldyshorts. Like the fool he is Fudge keeps his money at Gringotts and there should be a paper trail."
Harry took a deep breath and continued. "The clock is still ticking on the Wizengamot and my statement of what is required. I'll listen to Her Majesty but will not back down on that point. If it comes down to it, I will decapitate both of them with the sword of Gryffindor at the Hogwarts gate. We as the British wizard world are in the beginning stages of the next war. It seems like only some of us in this room realize that. I believe the Dementors at Azkaban will turn on you if Moldyshorts asks them, and he will. He will also come after his inner circle. The LeStranges and other need sent through the veil and it needs done soon."
The Minister replied, "I'll be honest Harry I can only do so much with the Wizengamot. But I'm increasing the Aurors budget and going after the Death Eaters on the lists provided by Malfoy and Snape. The Aurors now have the right to use any curse deemed necessary including the unforgivables. I'm going to try Dumbledore first, and drag it out to hopefully keep the Death Eaters eyes on that while we take them out. Her Majesty offered me a company of wizard Marines led by a major I went to school with. That gives us a bit over 200 fully trained combat troops to supplement my Auror force."
Amelia hesitated to let that sink in before adding, "Every Auror has seen Croaker for questioning, and five are under arrest. The Ministry is currently locked down and Croaker's people are interviewing every employee under truth serum. The elves have destroyed over 100 howlers, and they are having fun doing it. Apparently, McNair tried to escape through the floo and ran into an elf. The elf called him a bad wizard and McNair pulled his wand. Big mistake that was, it took three Aurors to get him down from the Atrium's ceiling. It's doubtful he'll be able to walk to the veil with his back broken in three places. The Department of Mysteries healers can't overcome elf magic, and the elves refuse to help the bad wizard."
"Lord Gryffindor there is a Madam Longbottom at the gate requesting entry."
"Please let her enter My Lady, and thank you. Dora, would you escort her in here please?" Harry asked politely.
"Of course chief."
"Dora please don't start that or I will call you by your full name and that is a threat and a promise all wrapped in to one," Harry said with a smirk and a wink.
"Ok, yes boss."
"Harry is it always like this around you?"
"Actually Sirius this is quiet for Harry, no Moldyshorts or basilisks yet. Of course dealing with a reasonable Minister is new," Hermione answered with a smile.
"Croaker pardon me, let me introduce you to this lot." Harry said and introduced him saying no one knew what his Department did, and it really wasn't any of their business.
"Actually I'm here in the capacity of Chief Warlock. Dan, Emma that means I lead the Legislative Body and am the Chief Justice. For the upcoming trials I'll turn those duties over to the Minister and prosecute the cases," Croaker told them.
"Sirius, are you a member of the Wizengamot?" Harry asked hoping for a yes.
"Yes since I'm the new Lord Black." Sirius said with a wicked smile.
"Good. I Harry James Potter give Sirius Orion Black my proxies to vote in my stead on the Wizengamot," Harry said and the magic accepted his vow.
"I, Sirius Orion Black accept Harry James Potter's proxy and will vote them as he would." Sirius promised.
"So mote it be," they said together.
Dora and Augusta entered.
"James… sorry you must be Harry," Augusta said in shock.
"Yes Ma'am may I introduce my betrothed Ms. Hermione Granger, and her parents Daniel and Emma Granger. Do you know everyone else?" Harry asked politely.
"Yes Harry if I may call you that. I don't think hair bear is appropriate at your age. And Sirius you old dog you look surprisingly well," Augusta said nearly gushing.
"It's all thanks to lots of rest, good food, few women, and lots of exercise," Sirius replied with a wicked grin in place.
"Don't ever change Sirius. Harry the reason I came is that Minerva and Poppy informed me that Neville is having trouble with his wand. He was so proud of it I let him use it, but it apparently isn't a good match. I've been told Hogwarts is under lockdown and I need your permission to take Neville to Ollivanders."
"Tinker."
"Yes Lord Gryffindor."
"Please bring Neville Longbottom here."
"Of course sir."
"Augusta would you mind if I join you, mine doesn't work well now," Sirius asked.
"Not at all Sirius."
"Does Ollivander have a floo?"
"Yes Harry."
"Ask him if you can use it. If so you can use the floo in the corner and return the same way."
Tinker brought Neville and the three left via the floo.
"Where were we?" Harry asked, "ah yes Croaker was talking about the upcoming trials."
"Yes. Ted how long can you drag out Dumbledore's testimony. Well we don't normally do this but I will insist each charge be taken care of separately instead of one lump sum. I can even ask for a vote after each charge. Of course this may be detrimental to our case." Croaker asked.
"Then we'll ask Augusta to insist on it. One it don't hurt our case, and two, no one on the Wizengamot is foolish enough to irritate Augusta," Ted replied with a smile.
"Ted is right. I saw her duel Mad Eye and whip him severely then call him a young snot. She's probably taken out as many Death Eaters as any two Aurors." Amelia said.
"She's the one that primarily trained Frank, James, Sirius, and Remus. Pettigrew was too weak to keep up and she had no time for weakness." Croaker stated.
Amelia asked, "Back to why we're here. Harry, may we see Cornelius and Umbitch."
Harry's grin turned pure evil as he answered, "Sure Amelia, Dora would you escort them to the dungeon please? They won't be happy with their conditions or food. However, they can live off the fat of the land for a while longer."
"Harry this suite is busier than King Cross Station during Christmas rush," Dan stated the obvious.
Harry's smile changed to more friendly as he replied, "That's true I guess. I have never been there except for the Hogwarts Express on 1 September and at the end of school. I'll bet Ragnok is laughing his butt off as the Death Eaters try to access their vaults."
"Those that come to the bank Harry will be taken prisoner and handed over to the Aurors. When things slow down you should take Dan and Emma to see the dragons," Ted said.
"They have dragons in the bank?" Dan asked.
"Yes, to guard, well to help guard, their high security vaults. Of course they have the best handlers and train the dragons for security work," Ted replied.
Emma was almost bouncing as she asked, "How big are we talking about Ted?"
"Forty or fifty feet Emma, it depends on the breed. The Hungarian Horntail is the biggest and meanest of the lot. A nesting female can throw flames about fifty feet and melt steel in a heartbeat. Harry is it true you're a Parselmouth?" Ted asked changing the subject slightly.
"Yes, Ted." He replied softly.
Ted grinned and continued, "You can most probably speak to a dragon then. Of course, you would want to be very courteous. Legend says Merlin was a speaker and befriended a Horntail. The dragon is said to have helped him in several battles, and is why he took a dragon symbol for his coat of arms. I do know Godric Gryffindor's favorite saying is 'one has to be a fool to wake a sleeping dragon.'"
"In our first year Hermione and I got caught delivering a Norwegian Ridgeback to a group of handlers from Romania that work with Charlie Weasley. Hagrid tried to raise the damn thing from an egg he won playing cards. He lives in a wooden hut for cripes sakes. It bit Ronald Weasley and he spent three days with Madam Pomfrey trying to save his hand. The dumb ass thought he could pat it on the head like a puppy," Harry stated shaking his head when he thought of the weasel.
"Harry, Hagrid is not known for being the brightest of lights. Don't get me wrong, he's a good man with a huge heart. But he has a weakness for bizarre and dangerous creatures." Ted said patting Harry on the arm.
"Tell us about it Ted, he named a Cerebus Fluffy, and the Ridgeback he named Norbert. If I was eight or nine feet tall and weighed 350 pounds, I might think some creatures aren't dangerous. Bloody hell he even raised an Acromantula. For those who don't know, that's a huge poisonous spider. When I say huge, I mean a body about 20 feet in diameter. The damn thing even talks. It wanted to feed Ronald and me to its sons and daughters. We were lucky to get out of the colony alive." Harry shuddered at the memory.
"Follow the spiders Hagrid says, when we're trying to figure out what is petrifying students. Ted please sue Fudge for arresting Hagrid because he needed to be seen doing something. He had no proof Hagrid did anything, he went on the fact Hagrid was implicated in Myrtle's death. Hagrid has been proven innocent and still doesn't have a wand. I need a butterbeer and a headache potion, it seems impossible the Ministry is this screwed up." Harry stated and closed his eyes for a while.
Tinker appeared with both for Harry, and butterbeers for the others.
Amelia Bones and Croaker returned smiling. Amy asked if Harry had a spare Goblin crystal so she could show her memory to everyone. Augusta, Sirius, and Neville got back just in time to see the projected memory.
Amelia Bones' POV
You could see from the memory she was approaching Fudge's cell.
"Amelia, get us out of here right now and arrest that fucking Harry Potter," Fudge huffed like he was in charge.
"You heard the Minister, Bones do it now or be fired," Umbridge screamed.
Amelia was in her full Minister mode now. "Shut up bitch. Fudge, Her Majesty fired you and I am Minister now. She also said your fate is in Lord Gryffindor's hands. Lord Gryffindor has given the Wizengamot 72 hours to try you and Umbitch. One of the many charges against the two of you will be treason that means the veil if you are found guilty. I'm leaning toward letting Harry execute you at Hogwarts Gate. You two started a war. It's an unauthorized war according to Her Majesty. That by definition is treason. If it gets passed to me, I will personally hang you from Gringotts and let your corpses rot for all to see what happens to traitors. I suggest you two climb down off that high horse you both are on, because you both are in deep shit."
"But…but he plans allowing all sorts of magicals into Hogwarts. We cannot allow that to happen, if they get educated, the purebloods will be pushed into the background and lose power. That's just not right Amelia." Fudge said almost crying at the thought.
"Cornelius, does the fact Harry owns this school even try to enter that pea brain of yours. It's his and he can do whatever the fuck he wants to with it. That young man plans on making this the best magical school in the world. You can bet my Susan will attend Hogwarts, and she will associate with all manner of magicals and be better for the experience. You two are so fucking in-bread you can't think straight and couldn't fight your way past a muggle police officer."
Amelia sighed and continued, "Fudge you're pissed because your bribe money from the Death Eaters dried up with Unlucky Lucy gone. I wonder who was a top in that relationship. Dolores you're simply a pureblood in-bread bitch that thinks she is better than everyone else is. Hell woman, you aren't even from a minor house let alone a Most Ancient and Noble House. Trust me your rise to Undersecretary is well documented and will be presented in court. You will also be asked about three murders, now stew on those thoughts bitch."
Amelia paused for her words to sink in, "Harry and I have a meeting with Her Majesty tomorrow, then the Wizengamot meeting in the afternoon to see if they will try and save your asses from Harry's justice. Personally, I hope they don't, as it will give me more time to straighten out your fucking mess and arrest more of Moldyshorts' supporters and Death Eaters you put to work or promoted. The public wants your blood, both of you. I would say good luck, but I wouldn't mean it so I won't."
Croaker took over from Amelia, "In the event the Wizengamot decides to try you two, I will be providing the truth serum, and be prosecuting the case personally. How either of you made it up from the lowest levels in the Ministry is also under investigation. Your Dark Lord may be returning, but you two won't be there to greet him, and neither will be any of his Inner Circle. All convicted Death Eaters past, present, and future, have an appointment in the veil room at the Department of Mysteries. Have fun you two, I understand you have about 68 hours left. If you wish I'll leave a countdown clock here so that you can watch."
"Tell Potter we want something besides bread and water to eat," Fudge whined.
Amelia sneered and said, "Why Cornelius would you like some swill from Azkaban? I'm sure Lord Gryffindor would allow me to arrange that just to accommodate you."
End Madam Bones POV
"My language isn't quite as colorful as Amy's but I do believe they finally got the point." Croaker said.
"I think seeing the looks on their faces is priceless." Harry said then added, "And that folks is our former Minister in full action mode. What a git. He and Ronald Weasley would make quite a pair. Although it would be more like Fudge and Percy vying to see who could be more pompous."
Neville looked shocked and said, "Harry, Ron is saying you two are just having a small disagreement nothing major. That didn't sound like you agree."
"Neville, if Ronald never crosses my path it will be a thousand years too soon. He's a backstabbing, money grubbing, spying bastard. And that's being kind and not stating how I really feel about him. I wouldn't believe Ronald's word if we were standing in a pouring rain and he said it was wet. I don't tell people whom to befriend, but I will say it's quite foolish to trust Ronald Weasley. I don't trust Percy either, Ginny I'm not sure of but she owes me a life debt, actually all the Weasleys do." Harry sipped his butter beer while that sank in.
"The twins and I will do some business if they get their act together. I don't know Bill or Charlie, so I have no opinion there. What I do know is within a week of leaving school both left the Burrow and rarely return. Bill is a curse breaker and Ragnok says he is a good one. Charlie is a dragon handler in Romania. Arthur is whipped to the nth degree and hides in his garage. Molly an overbearing, 'I think of Harry as one of my sons after two weeks type woman. Well, that's possible since she was getting ₲500 a month out of my trust vault paid by Dumbassadork, whoops, I mean Dumbledore. Did I miss anything Hermione?" Harry asked with a lopsided grin.
Hermione returned the grin making her parents shudder. "Well other than Molly embarrasses her children with screeching howlers now and then, and adding Bumbledork providing the Weasleys with free tuition, I can't think of anything."
Sirius looked at Augusta and Amy then the three burst out laughing.
"Do you like the Weasleys and Dumbledore much you two?" Sirius asked, "Harry you sounded so much like James that the three of us just couldn't hold it in. He used to get on a tear and Lily would set back then support him at the right time with the right words. That being said while you look like and sound like your father I believe Lily's genes are dominant at least in the brains department. You seem to analyze a lot like she did. She caused far more suffering with words, especially when she got quiet, than she did with hexes. And she knew some really bad hexes, one of which I'll tell you in private." Sirius said with a look telling the others he was remembering the past with his friend.
"Harry, Sirius will tell you that your Mum hexed a boy's bits, and made it so small he wet himself by trying to pull a hair out of his pants because he couldn't find his penis. Apparently he called her a mudblood," Augusta said stating Frank told her the story.
"That would be one Severus Snape, Harry. The real funny part was that it lasted for a month. He actually slept outside the Gryffindor common room door and begged her to forgive him. She said, and I quote, "OH SEVVIE I'LL FORGIVE YOU WHEN HELL FREEZES OVER." I swear they heard her from the Gryffindor Tower to the dungeons. One of these days, I'll show you the memory of that. I guess you heard what she did to McGonagall and turning her robes so she appeared nude from the front. All boys could see was black strips on the top and in the middle, but the girls got the full view. James and I got detention for that. A whole month's worth. The funny thing was Minerva changed robes three times and it didn't matter. Mooney thought it was funny, both what happened to McGonagall and to James an me." Sirius said with a smile.
"Amy I think it's time for us to go back to work, and see if there is a Ministry left." Croaker stated and stood up.
"You're right. I suspect we'll see you all at the Wizengamot meeting." Amelia said as she stood also. Harry let them use the floo
After Amy and Croaker left, the others continued to talk.
Conversations
Harry brought Sirius and Augusta up to date on his life. Sirius threatened to kill Dumbledore while Augusta threatened to castrate him, pull his beard out hair-by-hair, tear his head off, and pee down his neck.
"Gran!" a shocked Neville exclaimed.
"Hush Neville, you two should have been raised together if something happened to one of your parents. You spent so much time in the same crib, playpen, and on Padfoot or Prongs back I can't even measure it. You two should have been raised as first cousins," Augusta stated and her aura flashed indicating she was a witch to be reckoned with.
"Shit!"
"Language Harry"
"Yes dear. Augusta, did Frank or Alice bind Neville's magic?" Harry asked trying to hold his temper and magic in check.
"Not that I know of, why?" Augusta asked afraid of the answer.
Harry sighed and shuddered before continuing. "Well Dad bound mine, and Poppy Pomfrey's was obliviated by Dumbles so she wouldn't take care of my scars and malnutrition. Was Neville alone with Dumbledore when he was young, like maybe right after Frank and Alice was incapacitated?"
"Actually he watched him while I spoke with the healers. Shit, I know where you're going with this. But who do we trust to remove the bindings?" An irritated Augusta asked.
Harry was now in full business mode again. "Ragnok's healers and they can check for other charms and curses including mind charms. Grab my hands, Neville on one side an you on the other."
Augusta and Neville found themselves in Ragnok's outer office. Harry explained what was going on and agreed it should be billed to Dumbledore. They would use the time chamber while Harry talked with Ragnok.
"We're getting close to the end of Dumbledore's fortune and he still owes you well over a million Harry."
"I'm not saying I don't want the rest but if we don't get the money we'll get it some other way. I would really like to nail his hide to my wall. Have you found any more of Tom's horcruxes?"
"Yes, would you like to try Salazar Slytherin's ring?"
"Sure"
Ragnok handed Harry the ring in a box. He slipped it on and it bit him.
"Damn thing bit me."
§Quiet heir I am checking to see if you are worthy as a blood heir. §
"Harry is that ring speaking parsel?"
"Yes Ragnok, it said it's checking to see if I'm worthy," Harry replied.
§I find you worthy, much more worthy than the last three. I will pass you information as you sleep for the next three days. Welcome Lord Slytherin, Earl of Perthshire. §
"Well it accepted me as the Earl of Perthshire. Now I wonder who the heir of Hufflepuff is."
"Harry you need to get your betrothed an heir test as soon as possible."
"I'll be right back, the Longbottoms can floo back to the suite." Harry said and went to the outer office to pop to the suite.
Harry disappeared, and came back with Hermione. When told the heir test was part of a formal betrothal she agreed to it. She was a bit squeamish about spilling her own blood. Ragnok smiled and handed the completed parchment to Hermione.
Hermione Jean Granger
Notable wizards or witches:
Helga Hufflepuff – true heir by blood and magic, one-fourth owner of Hogwarts, Countess of Angus (today known as Countess in her own right)
Sir Galahad – true heir by blood and magic Earl of Angus
"Well Harry we've found the fourth heir. Lady Hufflepuff your vault is now worth approximately ₲557 million. The Galahad vault contains less than one million but has many scrolls you may wish to read. If you wish, we will translate and provide you a copy of them. They cannot be removed from the vault without destroying them. By law you are a pureblood please try on this ring. I suggest the right index finger as Harry wears his. It will aid you in casting spells. I cannot tell you what the ring will provide you. Most rings provide both knowledge and powers, but each is different."
Hermione followed Ragnok's suggestion and when the ring shrank she said, "Eep,… oh my."
"Hermione are you all right?" Harry asked his concern evident in his voice and stature.
"Yes dear never better in fact. I'll tell you more about it later. Ragnok please copy those scroll at your leisure sir," Hermione said with a smile.
"It will be done. Harry we are still finding out things about Dumbledore and his manipulations. It seems the Longbottoms will take a bit longer, you may want to go get your robes for tomorrow." Ragnok stated.
Harry was back in full business mode again. "Hermione that's a good idea, it will cut the time down so we have more time with your parents. Ragnok may I use the floo in your outer office. Shit I just thought of something, Her Majesty invited me plus six, now there's me plus seven with Sirius. I hate to leave anyone out."
"Harry Sirius will get his own invitation, I notified Her Majesty he is with you. Seems she is interested how he sat in jail without a trial for so long."
"Ragnok may I purchase two dozen more memory crystals."
"Of course, standard fee less quantity discount. Perhaps you should pay us to teach you how to charm your own." Ragnok said with what Harry and Hermione knew now as a grin.
Harry bowed and said, "Ragnok I know how, and would in an emergency, but it's more honorable to purchase them from the inventor. Gringotts deserves a fair profit and I'm not about to deal with you unfairly."
"You never cease to amaze us Lord Potter."
Harry fire called his quarters and the others came through.
"Harry we were told muggles couldn't use the floo," A shocked Dan stated.
"Dan, that was before you were protected by and allied with my houses. Amenity wise you are a pureblood wizard," Harry said with his grin back in place.
Dan smiled from ear to ear and said, "Magic is wonderful but strange Harry."
"I couldn't agree more."
"Prongslet, do you have a multi-compartment trunk with a wardrobe?" Sirius asked seriously (pun intended).
Harry shook his head no.
"Good I'll get you one for your second birthday." Sirius replied with a grin.
"Get Hermione one for me and I'll move the funds to your vault." Harry stated.
"Pup, that's not necessary."
"It is mutt, if the gift is to be from me."
Sirius threw his hands up and said he would meet them at Madam Malkin's. They had been in the robe shop almost an hour when a thunderstorm named Augusta and confident looking Neville arrived.
Augusta kept muttering, "that old son of a whore."
"Augusta may I assume Neville's core was blocked?" Harry said softly not wanting hexed.
Augusta was in full rant mode now a she stated, "Harry that was the easy part, they spent a week straightening out his memory. Hell they even worked around the clock, except when he was eating. I asked Ragnok if he would try to help Frank and Alice. The House of Longbottom is going to declare blood feud on the House of Dumbledore."
Harry stood tall in full Lord mode, "The houses of Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin join the House of Longbottom in the blood feud against the House of Dumbledore and allies itself with the House of Longbottom, so mote it be."
"The House of Black joins the House of Longbottom in the blood feud against the House of Dumbledore and allies itself with the House of Longbottom, so mote it be." Said with the same bearing Harry said.
"The House of Hufflepuff…"
"Hermione that's not necessary since you're my betrothed and our houses are allied." Harry told her.
"That may be but it will show all four founders houses allied against that old bastard." Hermione said not backing down an inch.,
"She has a point Harry, but Hermione when did you find out that bit of untold news." Sirius asked showing his shock at the news.
"About five minutes before we came in here Sirius, the House of Hufflepuff joins the House of Longbottom in the blood feud against the House of Dumbledore and allies itself with the House of Longbottom so mote it be," Hermione stated and the magic flared.
"The House of Tonks joins the House of Longbottom in the blood feud against the House of Dumbledore and allies itself with the House of Longbottom so mote it be," Ted Tonks stated as well.
"The House of Longbottom accepts the alliances of the houses of Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin, Black, Hufflepuff, and Tonks, so mote it be. And thank you all, it's good to have such great friends. This will bring in the houses of Bones, Moody, Diggory, McGonagall, and Lupin. On the other side, we'll have the Dumbledores, Weasleys, and I'm not sure who else. Of course, once the blood feud is posted we may have more join both sides or break alliances," Augusta stated with a feral smile.
"Are we required to kill everyone in a House?" Harry asked Augusta since she was the one who declared the feud.
"No Harry just Dumbledore. However, you can selectively kill any of his allies. It's somewhat like a limited hunting license for both sides. I'll have to check the House of Black's old alliances. To see who else I might drag in this against Dumbledore." Sirius replied before Augusta could respond.
"That means I don't have to kill Ginny, Fred, and George but can kill Percy and Ronald cool," Harry said with a feral grin that made Ragnok proud.
"Harry, be good, what about Bill and Charlie?" Hermione said gently trying to settle her betrothed down.
"Yes dear, we will have to see how they take me killing Percy and Ronald," Harry said with the same grin in place.
"Hermione I think your fiancé has a thing against two Weasleys," Dan stated the obvious.
"He does Dad, but he has to beat me to Ronald, he can have Percy the poncey git. Maybe I should let him have both since Ronald spied on him not me," Hermione replied to her Dad but was in full thinking mode.
"That's all right love, you can have him for all the shit he put you through, just make it painful. I'll teach you that hex Mum used on Snape. Obviously, we shouldn't do this at school unless they attack first. I don't want the school to become a war zone," Harry said and gave Hermione a hug.
"Isn't he sweet Mum?" Hermione asked with a smile.
Emma shuddered and said, "Actually I'm beginning to think he's rubbing off on you Hermione. What happened to the quiet little bookworm that was a background type person?"
With a smile Hermione replied, "She got betrothed to a powerful lord."
"Yep, he's rubbing off on you. Hermione, that's not necessarily a bad thing. Now what's the Hufflepuff stuff?" Emma asked wanting an answer.
"As part of the betrothal I needed to do an heir test. It shows I'm descended from Helga Hufflepuff on your side and Sir Galahad on Dad's side. This means I own one-fourth of Hogwarts and the founder heirs are united for the first time since not long after the school was built nearly a thousand years ago." Hermione said in her lecture mode and Harry sighed
"Hermione it also gives you two Wizengamot seats, you'll need to name a proxy until you turn 17. But it also gives you adult status, but you have that already." Ragnok stated in his neutral voice.
"Sirius, would you be my proxy?" Hermione asked in a tone that said clearly 'do it'.
Sirius agreed and they made their oaths. The ladies finished their shopping, and Harry managed to keep Hermione out of the bookstore. Using the reasoning that she still didn't know what books were in the Hufflepuff vault, and some may be self-updating. She wanted to give her parents debit cards but they refused to hear it.
When they entered the Great Hall, they spotted a table sitting above the head table with enough room and chairs for them and the Longbottoms.
"Welcome to Hogwarts Lady Hufflepuff. Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin it is good to see you are recognized as the true heir of Slytherin."
From the antechamber they heard, "I knew it was him, I doubt Ginny actually controlled the basilisk it was Harry all the while. Maybe Mum and Dad can sue him at I can get some new stuff maybe even a new Firebolt," Ron was almost in full rant mode.
"Hermione can I kill him now please," Harry asked and his demeanor said he was serious as hell.
"No but watch this," She said with a feral smile that made many shudder.
"Lady Hogwarts please see to it Mr. Ronald Weasley only gets one small helping with no desert."
"It shall be done as you request My Lady."
"Thank you My Lady," Hermione replied.
"Awesome love we will keep him to that until the term ends," Harry stood and said to the school, "As you just heard Lady Hermione Granger-Hufflepuff is part owner of Hogwarts. What hasn't been announced is that we are betrothed. I'm sure you all know what that means. I hope you know the penalties for messing with a betrothal. If not please ask your Head of House. If you do anything that is considered as trying to break the betrothal, it means life in Azkaban or death by my hand."
Harry held his right hand up and the Sword of Gryffindor appeared. He continued, "This is the Sword of Gryffindor mess with our betrothal and it is the last thing you feel as I separate your head from your shoulders, so mote it be."
Harry sent the bit reducing hex (milites nec, literally 'hair privates') at Ronald. He told Hermione it would only last two days to give her time to practice it on a training dummy. He explained he added biduum to the hex for two days, septimana would cause it to work for a week, and mensis would cause it to work for a month.
Today had been a long one and tomorrow would be even longer.