Chapter 9Buckingham Palace
Harry, Hermione, Sirius, the Grangers, and the Tonks used the floo to Madam Bones' office for a briefing, before going to Buckingham Palace.
Amelia briefed the group on the protocol that needed to be followed. "We will be traveling by two limos, with darkened windows and an escort. Harry since yours is the highest mundane rank your vehicle will lead. Remember Harry you're the first out of the vehicle, and the first into the palace. Once inside we will be required to give an oath of fidelity to Her Majesty and to do no harm to her family. This is the norm for first time visiting wizards. Is everyone up on how to greet her and the members of her family? I hope I can keep everyone's titles straight."
"Have you been notified that Lady Hermione is a Countess in her own right? And her name is Lady Hermione Granger-Hufflepuff." Harry asked a shocked Amelia.
"Why me Lord? And no I didn't know that when did it happen?" Amelia asked.
"Yesterday evening before dinner, she is the Countess of Angus," Harry said with a grin.
"Well this should go smooth. Sirius you are a Baron right?" Amelia asked.
"Yes," Sirius said with a grin.
"Have you reinstated Andy?" Amelia asked.
"It wasn't necessary, while mother blew smoke up everyone asses' father refused to disown her. I disowned Bella and Narcissa and dissolved both marriages. So yes, she is a Baroness as is Dora. I'm sorry Ted, but I don't know what title you hold if any," Sirius was smiling from ear to ear.
"Hermione since you're a Countess in your own right you would normally name your father and mother as Baron and Baroness. Do you wish to do this?" Augusta asked.
Hermione said yes, and Augusta told her what needed done.
Amelia generated a list and stated she just may have a snowball's chance in hell of getting it right. The list read:
His Grace Harry James Potter, Duke of Wight, Earl of Hogwarts, Earl of Inverness, Earl of Aberdeen, Earl of Perthshire.
His fiancée, Lady Hermione Jean Granger, Countess of Angus, Countess in her Own Right
Her Father Sir Daniel Michael Granger, Baron of Angus
Her Mother Lady Emma Jean Granger, Baroness of Angus
Lord Sirius Orion Black, Baron of Black Isle, His Grace Lord Harry's Godfather
His Cousin Lady Andromeda Nymphadora Tonks, Baroness of Black Isle
Her Husband Mr. Ted Edward Tonks
Their Daughter Lady Nymphadora Marie Tonks, Baroness of Black Isle
Lady Regent Augusta Matte Longbottom, Countess of Bottomglen
Heir Apparent Lord Neville Franklin Longbottom, Baron of Bottomglen
Mr. James Croaker Director of the Department of Mysteries
Mr. Kingsley Shacklebolt Director of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement
Mr. Alastor John Moody, Chief Auror
Lady Amelia Susan Bones, Countess of Linden and Minister of Magic
"This isn't a group it's a bloody mob." Amelia mumbled.
They somehow made it to Buckingham Palace and took their oaths. Then they were escorted into Her Majesty's private study.
Amelia made it through the introductions, and each shook the Queen's offered hand and was asked to call her Ma'am.
"We will do something we rarely do, but it seems Lord Potter and I am related. Actually, he is my second cousin, so I will consider you either, all members of his family, or his close friends allowing us to bypass protocol a fair amount. Now Harry, please tell us what the hell is going on, and why you took the former Minister prisoner. Not that we think you weren't justified or do not have the right." Her Majesty asked in a way that forced a response.
"I have the ability to show you what happened Ma'am, if you don't mind. However, I will have to use my wand to let us view it." Harry said with a smile.
"We would appreciate that, so you may draw and use your wand," Her Majesty replied.
Harry sat a crystal on the coffee table they sat around, pointed his hand at the floor and shot his wand into his hand. He tapped the crystal three times and slid his wand back in the holster. The crystal showed exactly what happened then to everyone but to Harry's surprise it showed his conversations with Hogwarts during her reports on Fudge and Umbridge.
"We must say you show an inordinate amount of patience. We are not sure we could keep from having both publicly hung by now. Your Grace, you have our backing in whatever action you take. Minister Bones now tell us what has happened to our Chief Warlock," Her Majesty said looking Amelia in the eyes.
"Actually Ma'am, Harry may be better able to do that with Mr. Tonks, his solicitor's, help." Amelia replied with a grin at Harry.
"Thanks Minister I love you too. Where to start, I guess the beginning is always the best place to start a story. Ma'am on 31 October 1981…"
"Harry, may we ask how many crystals did you bring?" Her Majesty asked.
"All 56 Ma'am, I had no idea what you would want to know. And sometime it is easier for me to show than explain."
"Approximately how many hours would they take to view?" Her Majesty was now in a snit at the lack of information she had been supplied by Fudge.
"Two to three hours Ma'am. I can skip and slow things down based on what you would like to see," Harry said softly, aware of her change of demeanor.
"Very good, we will contact Phillip, Charles, and Andrew to see if we can move lunch up by thirty minutes. How large can you make this presentation?" Her Majesty asked.
"With the right-sized area, I can make twice actual size Ma'am."
"Harry enough of the Ma'am at the beginning or end of a sentence. Relax we promise we won't bite. None of my family does, well maybe Andrew used to but Sarah will put him on a short leash. All of you, please relax. So all of you know, my entire family is briefed on your world. Generally, it is done through the Prime Minister by your Minister of Magic. We have known Dumbledore for years but never came to trust him or his words." Her Majesty said shocking them all.
An aide came in and whispered something in her ear then left.
"If you would like, we could magically enlarge this room and create furniture or do it to any other room, then set it right when we are finished. All we need to know is what you would like. It would give Harry and Hermione a chance to show their charms and transfiguration skills," Amelia said while smiling at the shocked teens.
Harry thought, I'll get you for this Amelia. He looked at Hermione and winked. She nodded in return. Moody saw them and smiled, knowing his boss was about to get her knickers knotted.
Croaker said, "Harry, I brought some small blocks of wood if you need them."
"Thanks Croaker but Hermione and I always carry small scraps of paper." Then looking to the Queen he added, "If we may, Hermione and I will give a small demonstration, but we will need to use our wands."
"You have our permission."
Harry asked, "cup and saucer, I'll do the tea service alright."
She nodded, and Harry put four scraps of parchment about one-half inch square on the coffee table. She took one and tore it in half, saying, "Sugar and cream."
Harry waved his wand and a scrap of paper turned into a silver platter. He levitated as second scrap on the tray and waved his wand again. A steaming silver teapot appeared, and the aroma began filling the room. Meanwhile, Hermione had transfigured one large scrap into 16 saucers and other into 16 cups, and the two small ones became a sugar bowl with sugar, spoon, and lid. The other was a creamer with cream. Every item had the House of Windsor's coat of arms on them.
"You may want to check the detail on the coat of arms Ma'am, I've only seen it once." Harry said.
Her Majesty looked at him shocked and asked, "How long will these last?"
"I believe they are permanent. They are my fiancé's and my present to you Your Majesty. However, Croaker can check and tell you for sure," Harry said while smiling at Amelia.
"Yes Mr. Croaker you may use your wand."
Croaker made four passes over the items then said, "They are permanent and with unbreakable charms, anti-theft charms, pressing the sword on the coat of arms on the teapot, sugar bowl, and creamer refills them. There is an ever-fresh charm on those three items plus a charm to keep the cream cool and the tea hot while the teapot remains cool to the touch. Amy this demonstration is more than enough to declare them both with outstanding work for OWL and NEWT levels in charms and transfiguration. The detail work on all pieces is outstanding, well done you two. I am curious what kind of couch you would do," Croaker asked.
"One fit for a Queen of course, what else would you expect?" Harry replied cheekily.
"Mr. Croaker if we understand you, this service is permanent and cannot be stolen or broken. The tea, cream, and sugar are always fresh and hot or cold as required. And by touching the sword on the teapot, creamer, and sugar bowl those items refill." Her Majesty stated.
"You understood perfectly Ma'am."
"Actually Croaker missed a couple of things. If you touch the sword and say 'stay on the kitchen counter' the set will return to that point if removed from your chambers. If you touch the sword on a cup and say 'fill' the cup will fill with tea from the pot. It works like this," Harry touched the sword on a cup, "fill." The cup filled.
"What kind of tea do you prefer Ma'am?"
"Actually it surprises some but I like Greenleaf," Her Majesty replied with a slight smile.
"Please touch the sword on the cup and say fill with Greenleaf."
She did and the cup was filled with steaming tea.
Amelia looked at Croaker, who said, "Don't look at me Amy you tried to put them on the spot, and it bit you. I just missed a couple of Mastery level charms."
"Ma'am…"
"Harry we think it's time for you and Hermione to call me Liz. We don't like called Cousin Liz so just Liz will do. Now continue please, and Harry that was a hidden command from your Queen." Her Majesty said shocking the adults in the room.
"Liz if you need more than 16 in the setting let us know a duplicating charm is easy." Harry stated.
"We know you didn't mean to Harry, but you've put us in a dilemma. My family is large and these setting being unbreakable means even the small children could be served off the same service as the adults. We know this doesn't sound like a big thing, but to the children it really is."
"Will 48 be enough? This really isn't a big thing to us. We do it to suit our needs daily."
"Actually 48 would be just fine Harry."
Harry looked at Hermione and she shrugged. He waved his hand over the saucers and cups and said, "There are 32 more settings on the counter in your kitchen behind me as well as plates, salad plates, and soup bowl. Oh, I also added desert plates. Hermione what did I miss?"
"I can't think of anything since this is our first meeting with Her Majesty," Hermione replied.
"Liz what else would complete the set for you?"
"That's more than enough Harry it's a complete service that we normally use for family. Now we want to know why you didn't use your wand to do that," Her tone brooked no argument.
"Well Hermione would say I was showing off, but the truth is I need the wand for fine details in the silver or china. However, to duplicate or copy an original, I don't need it. Something like a duplicating charm is easy but curses I haven't learned yet are difficult especially without a wand. I suspect Alastor will work with me learning to do those. It does take more power than if I use my wand," Harry replied with a smile at his betrothed.
"Excuse me Harry but when do you plan to tell us you are Charlus Potter replacement as a battle mage?" Her Majesty asked.
"Well Liz, I hadn't planned on it until I complete my training, and Mad Eye is chomping at the bit to do that as is Dora."
"Mad Eye?"
"Sorry, it's Alastor's nickname, and Miss Tonks prefers Dora to Nymphadora, then we call Sirius Mutt because of how he used to sniff around the ladies."
"Hey, pup its Padfoot not mutt?"
"Pup?"
"See what you started mutt. Yes, he's dog animagus, in other words he can change into a dog. My other pseudo uncle is a werewolf called Mooney for obvious reasons. They sometimes call me Prongslet because my Dad could change into a stag. Mooney is perfectly safe to be around except for the full moon of course." Harry stated.
Her Majesty looked as Sirius and nodded, and after shooting Harry a dirty look, stood and changed into Padfoot then changed back. The rest of the Queen's family arrived, and introductions were made. Harry thought Dianna was more beautiful in person than in the pictures he had seen.
"Liz when did you get this new china and tea setting?"
"Phillip they're a gift from Harry. You'll find them quite unique I believe. We declare this a full family meeting and declare protocol out."
Charles raised his right eyebrow. She had never done that except with Ronald Regan, at least that he knew of.
"Mother…"
"Charles you always call me Mum in private and this is considered private. Harry I believe we need a table for 22."
"Would you like to use the new china?"
"Yes"
Harry stood and waved his wand several times, the room tripled in size. He walked to the far wall, and dropped as slip of paper and said, "Hermione love. I'll do the table if you'll do the chairs. I believe dark mahogany would look better than teak."
The two stood side by side, and transfigure the single slip of paper into a mahogany table and 22 chairs. There was no doubt which chair was for Liz.
"Harry during family dinners I sit in the middle."
A swapping charm later and she nodded. The table seated four on each end and 8 down each side. The china and tea services floated to the table. Harry and Hermione stepped back then waved their wands and three vases of flowers appeared. They contained English roses and Lilies. Harry looked at the shocked family.
"Did we do something wrong?"
Phillip said, "No son we're just shocked at the detail level of the work, and how little time it took. In my opinion, it's perfect, but how long will it last?"
"That depends on how long you would like it to last, sir."
"If it weren't for the fact that so many people know what this chamber normally looks like I say make it permanent."
Harry and Hermione walked back to the original chamber, "Hermione you do the paintings and decoration, and I'll do the wall alright."
They waved their wands and a wall exactly like the original appeared.
"Prince Andrew, please walk through the wall then tell us what you see. Don't hesitate, just walk straight through, it is an illusion, but if you stop or hesitate, it will seem solid. You can actually lean on it if you do that slowly."
They watched as Andrew disappeared through the wall then returned.
"Mum it's just as Harry described, I felt a tingle as I passed through is all."
"Harry, how old are you and Hermione?" Princess Diana asked.
"I'll be 13 the end of July and Hermione will be 14 on 19 September. I like older women like my father did. He chose the smartest witch of his age, and I was lucky enough to be able to do the same."
"I see. It seems to me with ten older wizards in the room, one or more of them would have done what you did."
Amelia admitted, "Princess Diana it's my fault for trying to put Harry on the spot. I must admit he backfired that on me in a spectacular manner. After seeing this, I will drop any retaliation in the way of pranking. As Shakespeare said, discretion is the better part of valor."
"Liz if you'll think of how you want the expansion decorated with couches, chairs, and other furniture, we'll do those after lunch. I'll also show you how to reconfigure the table and add or subtract chairs."
Croaker looked at Amelia and she said, "I agree it's above Mastery level work, but it would be too hard to explain and they would lose an element of surprise," Croaker nodded.
"Too further answer Princess Diana's question none of us old fogies can do this on a permanent basis. I doubt most of us could make it last six months before it reverted to a scrap of paper. Each ancient wizard family has certain family magic known only to them. Harry's great, great-grandfather was the last battle mage, well known for his transfiguration and charms. He descended from Godric Gryffindor a true warrior and one of the four founders of Hogwarts. Apparently, Harry's mother was descended from Rowena Ravenclaw a witch of high intellect and master of Mind Magic, Runes and Arithmancy and second of the four founders of Hogwarts. He just found out he is both the magical and blood heir of Salazar Slytherin the third of the founders of Hogwarts. He was a Parseltongue able to speak to snakes, dragons, and other animals. He also was a potions master and seer. I have no idea what Harry can do, but at age twelve, he is more powerful than Merlin on Merlin's scale.
Hermione is descended from Helga Hufflepuff the fourth founder and a healer with an affinity for plants and potions. That is on her mother's side. She is descended from Sir Galahad on her father's side. Galahad was a wizard but other than what you know about him, we know nothing of his magical powers. It takes a certain level of power to transfigure things. It usually begins with changing a matchstick into a needle and takes years to learn. I hope that answers your question in a more complete manner."
"Thank you, Minister Bones. It did but also led to so many more, perhaps for another time."
"Harry I just thought of something I can't have our staff serving lunch on that table in the expansion."
"How much of the palace is used, and how many know of every room Liz?"
"Less than ten percent is used, and new rooms are still being discovered after all these years."
"So if I was looking at the painting of the seashore and placed my hand next to it and fell through a door into the room would that be acceptable as a possibility?"
"Similar thing has happened in the past, Harry."
"I'll do a china cabinet, and place what isn't being used in it so it will look like we discovered the china in the room. Hermione you need to do some furniture please, and change the paintings and decorations on the back wall. I'll help of course."
When they finished, Her Majesty called the staff and explained what Harry found and said they would be eating in the newly discovered room. After lunch, Harry moved the new furniture around and created a platform to show the crystals projections on.
"This first one is 31 October 1981, and is of my mother dying and me being attacked. It's not very long or pleasant."
After viewing that memory, Harry showed a few on how he was treated and some of the abuse. While everyone was livid, Her Majesty was furious. Before she could speak Minister Bones said, "I want the lot in Azkaban, Kingsley. I think medium security for the adults and minimum for the baby whale."
"Amy placing Harry there is in direct contradiction to James and Lily's wills, and Dumbledore knew that. I'd have them checked for compulsion and other charms before we do anything too rash," Sirius said.
"Sirius Black as a voice of reason, will wonders never cease," Mad Eye snorted.
"Hey, 11 years in that hole changes anyone."
Harry then showed a good portion of his first year, especially his conversations with Dumbledore.
"May we assume that Dumbledore will go to Azkaban, Amelia?"
"Liz I want to destroy him first. I have his available assets, and he still owes me approximately ₤10 million. Now I want his reputation shredded in a very public manner. We start that with the Wizengamot meeting later today when House Longbottom declares blood feud with House Dumbledore."
Harry then showed the last year. The basilisk drew a lot of gasps and cheers when Harry killed it. Harry was asked by Her Majesty to freeze the part when Fawkes flashed in.
"I have never seen a bird like that," Liz said.
"It's a Phoenix and they are said to be immortal. He has disappeared, most probably breaking his familiar bond with Dumbledore." Harry replied then continued the memory.
When he showed Fudge, Umbridge and his conversations with Lady Hogwarts and her telling of their true plans, the Royal Family was solidly behind Harry and his actions.
"The defeat of the basilisk would be reason enough to bestow the Order of the Garter Phillip."
"Please don't Your Majesty, I have enough problems with fame now."
"We will respect that decision for now, but we will do something later. There is no telling how many young lives you saved. We can be patient."
Andrew snorted and got a dirty look from his mother. "Mum you must admit that patience is not your most outstanding virtue. Do the words I want this yesterday, ring any bells within this family?"
"Alright Andrew I'll concede that point."
Harry redid the wall so it could be taken down, and the room opened up. To anyone remodeling it would look like the wall was original and the door was hidden long ago for some reason. After saying goodbye, the wizards and Grangers went back to the Ministry.
Ministry of Magic Courtroom 10 – Wizengamot Meeting
Croaker stepped to the podium and waved his wand then said, "This courtroom is now sealed, and all magic suppressed except for the few I have permitted to use it. You may note we are short a number of members. That is because we have found them to be Death Eaters or supporters of the so-called Lord Voldemort. Those that were stopped in the entry were found out today. Any of you with similar thoughts will be found, and you will be incarcerated."
"We have three members to install or reinstall. The first is Lord Baron Sirius Orion Black, who is hereby reinstalled to his family seat. The next is Lady Countess Hermione Jean Granger-Hufflepuff-Galahad, who now holds the Hufflepuff and Galahad seats. Her named proxy is Lord Black. Last is Lord Earl Harry James Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin. Lord Potter currently holds four seats and has named Lord Black as his proxy, so mote it be.
Augusta stood and said, "Chief Warlock, I seek permission to speak."
"You may speak Lady Longbottom."
"The House of Longbottom declares blood feud against House Dumbledore and its allies, so mote it be."
Sirius stood and said, "The House of Black declares its allegiance with the House of Longbottom in the blood feud against House Dumbledore."
Harry stood and said, "The Houses of Potter, Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin declares its allegiance with the House of Longbottom in the blood feud against House Dumbledore."
Hermione, Augusta, Amelia, Alastor, Kinglsey, and Croaker declared their allegiance to Harry. They were followed by the houses of Greengrass, Davis, Diggory, and ten others Harry didn't know.
Arthur Weasley stood and said, "The House of Weasley breaks its alliance with House Dumbledore because of a life debt owed the House of Potter, so mote it be."
Six other houses broke their alliances, although none tried to ally themselves with the House of Potter.
Croaker gained control of the meeting and stated, "The first order of business is the war Fudge, and Umbridge declared against the Earldom of Hogsmeade. A meeting was held with Her Majesty, and she clearly stated Lord Gryffindor was within his rights to see the former Minister's action as a declaration of war. She has given her blessing to Lord Gryffindor to handle this matter in any way he sees fit. Lord Gryffindor what are your wishes?"
"Chief Warlock, I wish the former Minister and his Undersecretary tried by this body, but I maintain the right to execute them if they are not sufficiently punished for their actions."
The Wizengamot agreed to try Fudge and Umbridge together. Dobby and Tinker brought them into the courtroom. When they started yelling against their treatment, Croaker silenced them.
"Lord Gryffindor has Goblin memory crystals depicting what actually happened. As you all know these are true memories and cannot be faked or modified, their use has several precedents. Lord Gryffindor if you would show the memories in the proper order please."
Harry did as he was asked at the end of the last one Fudge, and Umbitch knew they were screwed, as even their most loyal supporters couldn't believe what they saw. A unamous guilty vote with the recommendation of the kiss followed no discussion by the members. Harry recommended the veil, as there were no reasons he saw to take up space in Azkaban for bodies that at best were husks. His recommendation was followed, and then Fudge and Umbitch were led to the Department of Mysteries and put through the veil.
"Due to the trial of Fudge and Umbridge causing us to be in session this late, the trial of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore is rescheduled for 09:00 tomorrow. This session of the Wizengamot is in recess until 08:45 tomorrow morning." Croaker declared. Amelia Bones smiled there would be multiple raids this night and would continue until the Death Eaters were locked up.
Arthur asked Harry for a word and said, "Lord Potter. I want you to know that I cannot swear allegiance to your house because of the life debt owed."
"I know Mr. Weasley. I was relieved when you broke the alliance with Dumbledore. I don't have to kill Ronald and Percy tonight, but if they continue down the paths they are on, it will happen. My patience is getting very thin when it comes to those two. Ronald was Dumbledore's spy, and Percy is a subtle bully and I do not tolerate either for very long. I have stopped their free tuition and neither like that." Harry paused to let that sink in.
"The twins are working with me on a project, and their tuition is taken care of as long as they maintain good grades. Ginny has or will have money coming from the sale of the basilisk. This money is tied up tight until she turns 30 and there are only certain things it can be used for plus a small stipend of ₲10 per month for school supplies during the term and such. I blame Albus for her being placed in the situation. Hogwarts informed him of the diary and who had it. He took no action and placed the entire school in danger. All Ronald did was to get in the way, and almost got all of us killed. You'll see most of this tomorrow."
Arthur was shocked this is not what he had been told. Perhaps it was time to pull Percy and Ronald out of school to save their lives. From what he saw today Harry was not the lose wand Percy described. He made one more decision that would have a huge effect on House Weasley.
Courtroom 10
After the breakfast meeting with the staff, those going to the Ministry were leaving the Great Hall when Percy Weasley stood and shouted. "Potter I challenge you to a wizard duel to the death."
"Mr. Weasley you cannot do that due to the life debt your family owes me. Anyone with more than two brain cells and a pureblood knows that."
Percy pulled his wand and shouted, "Avada…"
Six stunners and a Reducto hit Percy. The Reducto missed Percy's shoulder but hit his head. Percy's body was flung into the wall behind him leaving a bloody streak as it slid down the wall.
"Shit, I didn't want this to happen. Dobby, inform Shaklebolt I need him and Croaker here immediately."
"Yes Lord Harry," Dobby said and popped away.
"Language, Harry."
"Yes dear. Fred, George, Ginny, I didn't want this to happen."
"Harry we know it was his choice not yours. His magic most probably killed him for attacking you. The git knew of the life debt and its penalties. We're sorry the others had to witness that but all you did was to defend yourselves."
"Harry I agree with George," Ginny said.
"Well I don't and Potter you will pay for killing my brother."
"Hogwarts remove Ronald Weasley from this school before I kill him. Ronald I've had it with you, be prepared to die the next time you speak to me you traitor. And Ronald that is not a threat it is a promise," Harry was nearing battle mode and Hermione hugged him to settle him down.
Ronald found himself outside the gate with his trunk. He hoped he had enough change to use the floo, so he could get home. He didn't expect Harry to do this. They were best mates after all. Harry needed to be more understanding about how things worked. He was only a half blood after all, and I'm the pureblood I should be in command not him. Ronald would find a rude awakening when his father came home.
Croaker and Kingsley arrived and inspected every wand in the group. Harry hadn't cast anything since yesterday. The last thing the others cast was stunners. It was decided that no one from the group cast the Reducto that took Percy's life. One student thought, "Tell me while I'm petrified that you will have me when you desire and you'll get what you deserve you bastard."
When those from Hogwarts arrived, they were escorted to the Minister's conference room. She said, "This will be short and sweet. We got all but three on the list those three now have bounties on their heads, and their assets are frozen. The Goblins are authorized to arrest them and hit wizards have been dispatched to their last known location. These are lesser Death Eaters, and they were recruited just before Moldyshorts was dispatched. They're normally on vacation this time of the year so nothing seems out of the ordinary."
Dumbledore
The group arrived in the courtroom, in a good mood, and took their seats. Croaker called the session to order.
"Today we begin the trial of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore former Headmaster of Hogwarts, former Chief Warlock, and former Chief Mugwump of the ICW. At my request, assisting the prosecution is Lord Potter. Please bring the defendant in and chain him to the chair where the Department of Mysteries truth serum will be administered. Since this is a high-profile case it will be presented according to the charges against the defendant who will be referred to as Dumbledore."
Dumbledore was brought in and chained to the chair he didn't look nearly as over confident and smug as he usually did. Harry thought, the old bastard is trying for sympathy. We will see how that works for him.
After the truth potion was administered, Croaker began:
"State your name."
"Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore."
"Are you a Death Eater?"
"No"
"Did you play a role in the creation of Voldemort?"
"Yes"
"Was this intentional?"
"Yes"
"Why?"
"I needed a new dark lord to defeat as my popularity was declining."
"Did you organize a group known as the Order of the Phoenix?"
"Yes"
"Why?"
"I needed cannon fodder while looking light."
"Did you intentionally send members of this group on missions that you knew had little chance of success and that some if not all would be killed?"
"Yes, we had to be seen as doing something, the people needed hope."
"Why?"
"It was for the greater good."
"Whose greater good?"
"Mine of course, no one else matters to me."
"Did you steal funds from Lord Potter's trust vault?"
"Yes, he won't need them. He needs to be killed by Tom. The prophecy says, one must die by the hand of the other."
"It certainly does not. It says one cannot live while both survive, and there are many meanings to those words. Did you set the Potter's up to die?"
"Yes it was simple, a compulsion charm on Black, and he suggests Pettigrew as secret keeper. Peter leads Voldemort to the Potters, and I know who is to defeat the dark lord. But which dark lord Tom or me I still don't know."
"So you consider yourself a dark lord?"
"Yes, with the things I've done and will do I'm certainly not light."
The press was going nuts, and the Wizengamot members were seething while Harry revised his plans. When the trial was finished, everyone knew Dumbledore had set Harry up to fail and supervised his abuse casting compulsion charms and wards on the Dursleys to act the way they did. It began when Lily turned 11 and found out she was a witch. Dumbledore freely admitted stealing from Harry and named three accounts the Goblins hadn't discovered. He admitted to knowing of the diary and basilisk, and that he was testing Harry. He also knew Snape spied for Moldyshorts and admitted using him to keep the number of Aurors and healers declining. He let Snape encourage bullying and his students joining Moldyshorts. Dumbledore knew he was going to die but couldn't stop telling the truth. At 10:17 that morning Croaker, Harry, and the others watch as Dumbledore was sent through the veil screaming. Augusta declared the blood feud over and done.
Malfoy - Snape
After Snape and Malfoy were tried, Harry could and would sit the others out. Malfoy was brought in looking all haughty and proud he saw Narcissa and Draco in the audience. Then he saw Harry and Sirius on the Wizengamot.
"Potter, when Fudge lets me out I'm coming for you."
"Lucy, Fudge, Umbitch, and Dumbledore are dead or soon will be, and you are next. Your fortune is mine your marriage is annulled your son is a bastard. Make that a no-name bastard since Narcissa has been disowned. I have your fortune and will soon have your precious manor, and you'll still owe me over a million so set your ass down and take your punishment like a big boy instead of like the coward you are. Your little pretty boy git got his ass kicked, and can't produce children. Hell, he can't even get it up. Your line ends with you, and you're alone, how does that feel Lucy? I think it's the result of the inbreeding don't you?" Harry replied with a sneer that made Snape's look tame.
Under the truth potion, Malfoy admitted being an active Death Eater, and that he was never Imperiused. He admitted trying to kill Harry. It was over quick, and he was sent through the veil screaming about the money that he had given Fudge to keep him free.
Snape entered sneering as usual.
"Potter when Dumbledore gets me out of here I'm coming for you."
"Ah it seemed dear Albus passed away this morning as he was sent screaming through the veil, followed by Lucy. You're next you bastard, good luck if you meet my father on the other side. Actually, if I were you, I would be more concerned with meeting my mother. She truly hates you Snivellus. And Snivelly you're short in tithe by over ₲500,000 as the heir of Salazar Slytherin I called all debts due. I'll see if you left anything good among your possessions, since they're now mine."
Snape's sneer turned to an ashen face and sweaty brow. The poor baby wasn't a happy camper. His trial took less than ten minutes, and he proudly walked through the veil. Somehow, Harry was not surprised it took either a fool or a brave man to be a spy.
Bill and Charlie Weasley approached Harry with open palms facing him as a sign of peace. "Lord Potter I come in father's stead. Ronald told one story, but Ginny and the twins told the truth. Our family holds no malice toward you. However, that doesn't include Ronald. Dad's at his wits end with him, and if he doesn't shut his mouth, he may be the first ever cast from House Weasley. Mum is beside herself but realizes it was an accident, and you never threw a curse at Percy."
"Charlie is here because Dad called a family meeting last night and laid the law down to Mum. None of us has ever seen him this angry. He took today off and went to the school apparently just after you left. The professors, Ginny, Fred, and George said you never issued a curse, and the Aurors don't know who did but are still checking. When he arrived at the Three Broomsticks, he sent Ron home telling him to go straight to his room and stay there until he arrived. When he returned with Percy, he had to shut Mum and Ron up. He lit into Ron and threatened to disown him if he didn't straighten up. I don't know what they'll do about Ron, if he doesn't go to Hogwarts I doubt any other school will accept him." Bill said his eyes downcast and wet.
"Bill as a member of the Gringotts team what I tell you now must stay between us. Your mother is about to receive a rather large windfall because she's the last Prewett, and her brothers were lost in the war. I used an old law and clamed Voldemort's vault by conquest. This led to a windfall that will be split among the victims' families on an equal basis. This won't bring Percy back, but it will relieve her concerns about money. As you may know, I sold the basilisk carcass and shared that with the victims. I explained to your father what Ginny received and how her trust vault is set up. What I didn't tell Arthur is that when she gets married her husband cannot touch a Knut from her vault ever. The way it's invested within 18 years it will probably be worth about ₲5 million. "
"Ronald will be pissed since he got nothing but what he owed me waved. The truth that all he did was to get in my way and nearly got us killed. He let Lockhart get his wand. I didn't want Ronald or Lockhart along. If Ronald's wand had been working properly we would have Voldemort running around with a young body and a 72-foot basilisk to deal with." Harry said quietly after putting up privacy wards.
"Harry our family owes you more than we could ever repay. We probably won't be successful but Charlie, and I will talk to Ron and force him to tell the truth for a change." Bill replied shaking his head at the thought of his youngest brother.
"I wish you luck with that. Dumbledore made him promises he had no right to, and then Dumbledore couldn't come through with. Ronald was promised Hermione, and he can't get it through his thick scull that she and I are engaged. I'm the head of four Ancient and Most Noble Houses, and Hermione is the head of two. Messing with us, or trying to break our betrothal is a one-way ticket to the afterlife. He probably has more to worry about with her than he does with me. If he stays away from us, we'll do the same. But he is out of Hogwarts, and the school won't let him through the wards," Harry stated firmly but without malice.
"Harry did they find out who cast the Reducto?" Charlie asked entering the conversation for the first time.
"No Charlie, it didn't come from us. We had the Ministry check our wands. It was cast silently so there is no voice attached to it. Madam Bones, Croaker, and Mad Eye looked at my memory, and they can't tell where it came from. Their theory is that someone outside our group had it in for Percy and took advantage of the situation. Lady Hogwarts said she didn't see who cast it and was looking forward to absorbing the Killing Curse." Harry replied honestly.
"Thanks for sharing that Harry and thanks for your time," A defeated Bill said.
"No problem Bill," They shook hands, and Harry left.
"Our little brother is a damn fool to mess with him Charlie. His power rating is about 400 above what Dumbledore's was. Ron sure screwed the gnome on his friendship with Harry, although I doubt Ron even knows what being a friend means." Bill told his brother and best friend.
"I don't think he does. I think he's a self-centered little berk who will end up getting himself killed." Charlie replied and shook his head at the stupidity of his youngest brother.
Buckingham Palace – Royal Family meeting
The Royal Family finished breakfast, and Her Majesty asked, "What did you think of those we met yesterday?"
Phillip said, "Madam Bones seems honest and hard-working and was left a nightmare to straighten out. Croaker is quiet and different, but there is power behind his actions. Mad Eye Moody is an old warrior and is a bit paranoid, but that's why he's still alive. Shacklebolt is friendly enough but tough as nails. Augusta Longbottom is a powerful witch, honest and straightforward. Her grandson is shy but coming on his own. The older Tonks are solicitors in both worlds. They're also honest. The young one, Dora, is a fighter and probably a very good one. Sirius Black is or was a rounder, fun loving but dangerous in a fight. He's trying to find his way back from false imprisonment and offers Harry good advice." Phillip sipped his tea while forming his thoughts.
"The Grangers are upper-middle class dentists who have built their own business. They're new to the wizard world. Dan was a SAS Captain, who saw action in the Falklands. Emma supports her husband and daughter and is the glue when the family needs that. Hermione doesn't know her own power yet but has more power than the adults have. Harry is the most powerful, and will be the leader of the wizard world one day, but most probably will stay in the background. He hates his fame because he thinks he didn't earn it. Unfortunately, he has killed and will kill again when necessary. He's still discovering his heritage and power, but he's only 13, although he acts closer to 25. He loves Hermione, and she loves him. They were lucky to have found that so early in life," Phillip finished with a slight smile.
The others agreed as did Her Majesty. She asked. "What can we do for him?"
"Wait Liz, he'll do something that attracts our press if this Voldemort comes back. That creep will start killing, as soon as he is able. Harry will take him down, and then you can do something. In the meantime, we find out more about the connection between the two of you. When you review the peerages, you can discover His Grace the Duke of Wight, hasn't been seen or heard from in years. This concerns you because you're related since the last Dukes wife was your first cousin. Then later we can leak that we found her son is an orphan named Harry James Potter approximately 13 years old. However, the records all lead to dead ends. You could say you've found more than one Potter, but they weren't related."
"Actually that's mostly true or at least close enough to be believable, and can be substantiated by a certain professor at Oxford. Too bad, we're not related close enough to make him a Prince. He seems to enjoy a good prank if it's not the bullying type." Liz stated with a faraway look in her eyes the others recognized.
"Mum, a Prince doesn't have to that closely related just related. Yes, the designation Royal Highness is meant to be straight-line family. But his or her highness includes sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Your grandfather installed several cousins, including third cousins as Prince or Princess. You may also want to remember that in the old days the only Prince was the oldest son but all daughters were Princesses. Also an Earl was the highest peerage under the Prince, who later became a Duke. While not all Dukes can be installed as a Prince, those related can and were regularly. This was done as late as the 1920s."
"Thank you Andrew."
Meanwhile at the Dursleys things were not going well for them at all.
Chapter 10
The Dursleys
The Dursleys sat down to watch television when they heard a knock on the door. Vernon struggled to get his fat out of the lounge chair. He finally got up and waddled to the door, and opened it. He saw the flashing lights of three police cars.
"Yes can I help you?"
"Mr. Vernon Dursley?"
"Yes."
"This is the right place, inside men. Mr. Dursley I have a warrant issued by Her Majesty for your arrest. That means the three of you. Now we can do this the easy way or the hard way it really doesn't matter. Of course, if you consider our preference it will be the hard way, hard on you of course. Now step aside or I will move you." The officer said as a wand appeared in his right hand.
"Petunia, there are freaks here call the police."
"We are the police you idiot," Gawain Robards said, "Wizard police known as Aurors."
Vernon Dursley was hit with a stunner and thrown back about five feet as Gawain Robards entered the room.
"Mrs. Petunia Dursley you and your son are also under arrest by order of Her Majesty and Minister Bones. The charges are child abuse for you, attempted murder for your son and husband. All right men start at the top and work down. If you miss anything, I'll have your head before sending you to Madam Bones. I'll do the cupboard myself. Jessup, please interview these animals."
Jessup body bound them then waved his wand over each one looking for compulsion or other charms and found none and no remnants of any. Jessup knew even if Dumbledore were dead and the charms cancelled there would still be traces of them. He read their minds like open books and wasn't pleased with what he found. These three would go away for a very long time.
Gawain Robards struggled to keep the contents of his stomach in place. For the first time in his long distinguished career, Gawain wondered if he could get by with torturing these three before killing them. He took in every detail then placed the memory in a crystal while it was fresh.
When he finished he waited for Jessup to nod then cancelled the body binds on the three.
"Dursley I want you to read this warrant out loud so the other two animals understand what you're up against." Gawain stated and handed Vernon the warrant.
Her Majesty Elizabeth II
Buckingham Palace
Dear Lady Bones,
As we discussed earlier the situation how His Grace Harry James Potter, Duke of Wight, Earl of Hogwarts, Earl of Inverness, Earl of Aberdeen, and the Earl of Perthshire was raised by his Aunt and Uncle must be solved to our satisfaction.
Please Lady Bones consider this and authorization to issue a Royal Warrant for the relatives of Duke of Wight. Be advised, if we find your form of punishment insufficient, we shall take the matter into our own hands. Please report your findings and the solution to us personally.
Her Majesty,
Elizabeth R
"Lady Bones is the Minister of Magic and told me Her Majesty wants your heads on a pike. However, Lady Bones assured Her Majesty that Azkaban was a more fitting punishment. You three had the richest person on the planet living with you. I've met His Grace and he's the type that would have shared everything with his family. But you three are animals and no family to him. His betrothed had to be physically stopped from coming here with us. She wanted to hex you three into the twenty-second century she said. At nearly fourteen, she has the power to do that. His Grace is already half again more powerful than Merlin," Gawain stated while sneering at the Dursleys."
"But we didn't know any of this," Vernon sputtered.
"Why would that make a difference, that boy was part of your family. Because of his father, you had the job you used to, and a well paid one at that. Now all you will have is a six by eight cell near beings that will force all happiness from your minds and show you the horror you brought on His Grace. The orders are that those creatures are not to allow you descend into madness, and for us to do everything in our power to make sure you have a long unhappy life. Get this trash out of my sight men before I gut them myself," Gawain stated his hate for the Dursleys very evident in his voice.
The three Dursleys were led to the police vehicles in handcuffs as the entire neighborhood watched and some cheered while others sneered. One shouted, "it's about bloody time you lot took those animals into custody." After an hour of viewing Harry's memories, the Wizengamot sentenced the Dursley adults to 25 years, and Dudley to 15 based on Harry's recommendation. At Buckingham Palace, the Royal Family said they could wait to extract their own justice.
The Times, a popular newspaper printed a small article that said the Royal Family was reviewing Peerages as was normally done each five years. It was reported Her Majesty might have discovered she has a missing second cousin. It seemed Edward Duke of Windsor had a daughter that was named Dorea Black and the daughter married into the Potter family. She was known to us as the Duchess of Wight. What happened to the Potter family and the Duchy is unclear.
Dan showed the article to Emma who in turn sent it to Hermione. Hermione read it to Harry who was not a happy camper.
Hogwarts
Things had settled down to the point Harry finally was able to have personal meetings with each of the staff. Minerva decided she wanted to teach and remain as Deputy Headmistress. Flitwick decided Harry and Pomona were right and began meeting with his house three times a week. Aurora Sinistra decided she would stay on has the head of Slytherin. Pomona Sprout would keep her Head of House duties and give up teaching.
The Professors agreed that visits to Hogsmeade should be open to all and be twice a month if grades were maintained. Tonks was giving defense lessons to the fifth and seventh year students. This was done in a new classroom and the class was now titled Defense. Muggle studies would be a requirement for the first two years and for those sixth and seventh who hadn't sat the new class. A two-year course on wizard laws and traditions would be developed. Runes would be introduced as part of Charms and Transfiguration in the first year. The actual class would be open to second year students and above. Arithmancy was made mandatory for the first five years. Potions and Herbology were combined and to be taught by both professors to show how plants reacted with other items in potions. NEWT level subjects would require an Exceeds Expectation on the OWL exam in order to continue a class.
Slytherin house would move out of the dungeon to new quarters. The moving staircases would be locked in place. First year students would receive a map that was charmed to show their current location and the quickest way to their next class. A large common room was opened up so that the houses could intermingle. Weekly dance lessons would be provided on a volunteer basis. Physical education and health studies were offered but not mandatory. All students were required to have a current physical, and immunization against Wizard Flu and Dragon Pox. The idea of Hogwarts becoming a boarding school that allowed the option of living at home and flooing to school was being discussed.
Harry asked, "Other than tradition, why do we require students from Scotland and Ireland to have to travel to London only to take the Express back here? Isn't it rather expensive on muggles parents with first generation witches, and those with large families that can't apparate or use the floo? I am not against traditions that make sense in today's world. But I think tradition for tradition's sake that is a burden that just isn't right. What was a good idea ten years ago may not be a good idea today."
"Lord Gryffindor"
"Yes Lady Hogwarts."
"In the past Godric created portals to the houses when the first visit was made. These were secured so they could be used only at certain times by the student and their immediate family. The family stepped into the portal and stepped out here less than a second later. The families met in the guest wing that has been hidden for 350 years but is available to be used. Families were invited to the opening feast in that wing because the common room or Great Hall is much larger than the one in this wing. Families were encouraged to mix in with the Professors to get to know each other. Seating was by the student's lowest year and not by house. Any Professor can ask me to create a portal once they're inside a home. When the youngest of a family graduates, the portal disappears. Students were told to arrive by 09:00 so they could meet others and their families given a tour of the castle and grounds. For some reason portals fell out of favor and are no longer used."
"In the case of the Weasleys could Ronald come through with the rest of the family?"
"No My Lord he has been expelled and cannot enter the grounds or castle unless you give him permission. The Hogwarts wards extend to the portals."
"Thank you my Lady. We may not be able to do this by 1 September but should be able to by the beginning of the January term. That brings up another question, why do we start on 1 September? Why not have the students arrive the last Saturday of August and give them a chance to learn their way around and meet their classmates?" Harry was in full owner mode as was Hermione.
The Professors knew that saying it's always been that way was not a good answer so they said they didn't know. Harry decided that since there needed to be a birthday cutoff for entering school 31 August was as good as any. It was not that much different from muggle schools. Professor Kettleburn then announced his retirement saying he would like to keep his remaining limbs. Harry thought it was too bad Hagrid wasn't qualified and had a thing for dangerous creatures. He thought of Charlie Weasley and decided to voice that to Pomona.
"Headmistress I would like you to consider Charlie Weasley as a possible COMC professor if he is qualified. We will need at least two more and I don't know if he will be interested. I do know he was a great seeker and may even be willing to help train the house seekers. The decision is yours of course," Harry suggested but it was clear the decision was Pomona's.
"Harry I know he received and O++ on his COMC NEWT and was planning to seek a Mastery. But the NEWT score would be enough to get him in the door. Charlie is a good man and was a good student, so I'll ask if he's interested. I know he's happy with his dragons but the new salary structure may lure him here." Harry Headmistress replied with a smile.
When informed that letters had been sent to Sirius Black, and Remus Lupin offering interviews as professors Harry asked, "Are you mental inviting two of the Marauders back in their hunting grounds with the Weasleys twins still attending school?"
"Harry what better way to control budding pranksters than to have masters watching over them?" Minerva asked.
Harry thought then replied, "I hadn't thought of it that way but I can see you're thinking outside the box. I just hope it doesn't backfire if one or both accept."
"Harry there is one other issue we just discovered, Dumbledore negotiated with Beauxbatons and Durmstrang to bring back the Tri-Wizard Tournament to be held at Hogwarts." Pomona stated.
"So you're saying that we have yet another year our students may be placed in danger because of that old bastard. That is not going to happen. I will allow the tournament but I maintain the right to determine the tasks. Let's see thinking the way the old reprobate did the first should be a spectator thing like the Roman Gladiators. Ok that would probably be students facing dragons or some such beastie. Ah, yes then we sent them into the lake in the middle of January or February to find something and fight Grindylows and who knows what else." Harry paused and collected his thoughts.
"Perhaps Beauxbatons will bring a part Veela. She would be at a disadvantage in the water how exciting. Of course, the audience would be looking at the surface not seeing what was happening. I mean we did entertain them with the dragons, so they should appreciate sitting for who knows how long in the cold, watching the lake and wondering what was happening. Then for the last task, we'll do something like a twenty-foot high maze and put the trophy in the middle. Once again, the audience shouldn't mind paying to watch hedges grow while the champions are fighting who knows what in the maze." Harry let that sink in for a minute.
"My rules are simple there will be no dangerous animals brought into this Earldom or the other three. The lake will not be used in any shape or form except as an entry and exit point for the Durmstrang ship. There will be no ground tore up or hedges grown not done as part of the Herbology class by our students. Broom races, duels with stunners, Expelliarmus, and shields only will be allowed. An obstacle course where the audience can see progress will also be allowed, the obstacles may be difficult but not deadly. I'll inform the Minister and Her Majesty of my conditions. If those terms are unacceptable, Hogwarts will not participate or host this abomination." Harry stated firmly and continued.
"Oh one other condition, all who enter must be of age and hand their name to me, and I will place it in the goblet. If any other name comes out of the goblet, the tournament will revert to three rounds of exploding snap the night the names are drawn and the other two schools are free to leave our grounds. The other schools, Durmstrang especially, need notified that the wards kill Death Eaters at their entry." Harry said wrapping up his conditions.
"I doubt the other schools will go along with your conditions Harry," McGonagall stated.
"Good Professor McGonagall, I really hope they don't. I care more for our students than Dumbassadore did and I will not allow them placed in danger at school. I suspect Madam Maxime will be delighted, and the Death Eater Karkaroff will probably withdraw Durmstrang, so sad too bad. What we have here is that currently four Quidditch teams compete in four matches. With the tournament, one student participates and everyone else has an opportunity to watch. Of course, Quidditch will have to be cancelled irritating the students who play and those who watch it. That's so much bull dung if it was anyone but Bumbles I doubt the idea would have received more than a mention." Harry replied with a smile.
After the meeting, Harry wrote a letter explaining his and Hogwarts position on the tournament and his conditions. He made six copies of the letter then addressed and signed each one. One went to Her Majesty, Madam Bones, Madam Maxime, the Headmaster of Durmstrang, the Minister of Magic Bulgaria, and the French Minister of Magic.
Harry and Hermione were relaxing reading an old scroll from her vault when the wards pinged.
"Lord Gryffindor Minister Bones and a Ludo Bagman request to talk with you."
"Let them through my Lady and re-add Amelia Bones to the direct access please." Harry replied.
"Yes my Lord"
"Thanks Lady Hogwarts."
Harry met them at the entry and led them to his common room and office.
"Potter you cannot be making conditions concerning this upcoming tournament…" Bagman started before being cut off.
"Listen and listen well you bag of wind. First, it's Lord Gryffindor to you, and you're in my Earldom so my rules apply not yours. Second, my betrothed and I own this school and we say what will and will not happen here. If you don't like this, don't let the gate hit you in your fat ass on your way out. Third, the letter lists my conditions and nowhere in it does it indicate I am willing to negotiate any of those conditions. Fourth, Her Majesty agrees and says this is my Earldom and I may run it how I choose. My students will not be put at risk so you may get your jollies off trying to live in glory long past. Fifth, Hogwarts wards will maim or kill any Death Eater that attempts to enter, and kill any inside the wards. Do I make myself clear?" Harry was in full owner mode and Hermione nodded her agreement.
"Minister he can't do this can he?" Bagman almost begged for a yes.
"Ludo, as I said in my office he not only can do it he has done it already," Amelia replied and rolled her eyes at the man.
"But Dumbledore agree to hold the tournament here," Bagman huffed in disappointment.
"Dumbassadork is not the Headmaster here, he's dead, and has been replaced by a competent Headmistress who cares for her students, and their safety. I agreed to work with Minister Bones and notify her of potential dangers to the students. I have done that and provided a solution that I deem fair, and Her Majesty agrees so I see no problem. Well that's not true, you have a problem in that you aren't getting what you want which seems to be to put my students in danger. That isn't going to happen. I can imagine Her Majesty's response to the idea dangerous beasts would be brought into her kingdom. It was dragons wasn't it?"
Bagman's face showed Harry was right and he had to admit it would have been the first task.
"Lady Hogwarts throw this idiot from my Earldom in any manner you so choose."
"Thank you my Lord it's a pleasure to serve you and Lady Hermione."
Ludo Bagman disappeared. Amy shook her head then laughed. Then she asked, "Do you have any idea where he went?"
"Yes, he is about a quarter of a mile into the channel off Dover. I'm not sure I hope he can swim or hope he drowns. Amelia if you're alone you can come through the wards again without asking for entry. Lady Hogwarts please add Croaker, Alastor Moody, and Kinglsey Shacklebolt to the entry list," Harry said with a smile.
"It is done my Lord."
"Thank you."
"I'll tell them and thanks Harry," Amelia said with a smile.
"No problem Minister I've been busy and forgot to do it earlier. Is it me or is Bagman an idiot?" Harry asked with a grin.
"He's an idiot, and you pegged him to a 'T'. He didn't like that much. I still think he supports Voldemort. He was found innocent but I believe that's because of his popularity as a Quidditch star." Amelia stated but indicated she thought Bagman was up to something.
"If my conditions are met he's in for a surprise because he cannot come back on any of my lands. I firmly believe Bumbles set this thing up to attract Moldyshorts. At least we have time to plan for that eventuality Minister." Harry said and relaxed.
"I'd tell you to stay out of trouble but that would be a waste of breath Harry. After seeing your memories and those from Robards it's a wonder you're not the next dark lord. I'm beginning to wonder if that was what Dumbledore wanted to happen." Amelia said with a faraway look that was becoming very familiar to those who knew her.
"Personally I wouldn't put anything passed the bastard. He was only concerned about himself and his grand plan for the world. I guess the saying that absolute power corrupts absolutely is true in his case." Harry said shaking his head.
"Harry I'll let the French and Bulgarians know that you won't back off on your conditions. I'll also tell them I agree with you that students safety comes first not entertainment for the masses." Amy said with vigor.
"Amelia, I appreciate that. I might back off on Karkaroff but I doubt it, Death Eaters have no business in this or any other school. I must assume with him as its head, Durmstrang is training future Death Eaters. But then again we had dark lord Bumbledork as Headmaster. You might put a bug in the Bulgarian Minister's ear that pureblood bigotry is not welcome here and is not tolerated by students or guests." Harry suggested and smiled.
"I'll mention that to both them and the French," Amelia Bones said as she left Hogwarts.
Harry and Hermione went back to reading the scroll, kissing, reading the scroll, and kissing some more. Harry found every reason he could to kiss Hermione. She smiled internally, she felt safe and loved with Harry by her side. She expected scathing letters from the Bulgarian Minister and Karkaroff and knew that would set Harry off and neither would like his reply.
"Lord Gryffindor there is a strange elf at the gate with a letter from the Bulgarian Minister."
"Thank you my Lady I'll send Dobby. The elf is declined entry."
"Yes my Lord."
Dobby fetched the letter and Harry read it and handed it to Hermione.
Dear Earl Gryffindor,
Thank you for your informative letter. I find myself in agreement with your conditions. Student safety must always be the first priority for a school. It is good to see someone in your country cares for the safety of all students not just their own.
Again, your conditions are acceptable to this Ministry.
Aleksandar Botev, Count of Silven
Minister for Magic, Bulgaria
Harry replied:
My Dear Count Botev,
Thank you for your letter. Rest assured that Hogwarts will make every effort to ensure the safety of all students, staff, and guests inside our wards. Several wards ensure Death Eaters meet a most horrible but justifiable fate. It is my belief a tiger does not change its stripes nor does a Death Eater change his or her ways. There will be no dangerous beasts allowed in any of my Earldoms. I was informed that the first challenge would have pit a student against a nesting mother dragon. I actually had to laugh at the thought that if the officials tried to bring a dragon here we would all have seen smoked dragon. I do doubt that it would make a tasty meal. I have also put our lake off limits to the tournament because not only are there dangerous creatures it is never warm enough to swim in for more than five minutes even with warming charms.
Personally, if I had my way this whole thing would be cancelled, there are safer ways for schools to interact than the Tri-Wizard tournament. I may be overacting a bit because one of my paternal grand uncles was killed in this abomination.
Respectfully,
Harry James Potter, Earl of Hogsmeade
Three-Fourths Owner of Hogwarts
Hermione read and approved what he wrote. The next day Harry received a similar letter from the French Minister of Magic, André Delacour, and Madam Maxime the Headmistress of Beauxbatons. The wording was slightly different but the intent was the same, safety came first. The letter from Igor Karkaroff was quite different from the others.
Lord Gryffindor,
As Headmaster of the great school of Durmstrang, I demand to be allowed entry into the pig sty of Hogwarts as promised by Headmaster Dumbledore. I consider your letter to be an affront to my honor. I will challenge you to a duel of honor when I arrive. As for your tasks, we will stick to those originally planned there will be no deviation at this date, or any other on this I insist.
Igor Karkaroff
Headmaster, Durmstrang Institute
Mr. Igor Karkaroff,
Your demands are noted and rejected. As the Americans say, come on down shithead. Be warned, trying to cross Hogwarts wards with the dark mark will cause you pain that would make Moldyshorts' Crucio feel like a tickle. After about ten minutes of screaming, you will literally explode into small pieces a sparrow could swallow. Come in your ship into the Black lake and die the same way. Death Eaters are not allowed within my four, surely you can count that high, Earldoms. Feel free to enter at your own peril.
As to a duel, name a neutral site and I will accommodate you, I've already taken down Malfoy, Snape, and Dumbledore. I'm collecting Death Eater wands like some collect chocolate frog cards. Your wand I'll display in a shit house for all to see how I think of you.
Once at Death Eater always a Death Eater and Death Eaters are at the top of my hunting list. What I say goes for any of your marked students. You may want to warn them that a bigoted pureblood attitude will get them thrown into the lake the first time, and into the English Channel the second time. There will be no third time as they will be out of my Earldoms never to return.
Hope to see you try to get into Hogwarts soon, you fucking low life bastard Death Eater son of a bitch.
Lord Gryffindor, Earl of Hogsmeade
Three fourths Owner of Hogwarts
P.S. No one makes demands of me, in my Earldoms. I am the king of the hill here. To me you are lower than dog shit. Make no mistake Death Eater, I will come for you, you may have escaped Azkaban but it's fixed and I can travel. So come on down and make my day, I love seeing Death Eaters fry.
Harry warned Hermione she wouldn't like the language in the letter but he was wrong. As she read, her right eyebrow raised. When she reached the end she smiled and said, "You put that bastard in his place."
"Hermione love, I do believe I'm rubbing off on you and not in a good way. Your language is getting as bad as mine love," Harry said with a smile.
"Hush you, you said bastard in your letter so why shouldn't I say it." She huffed.
"Ah, it's that lady thing again love."
"But were not in public and it's just us here."
"But the more you use those words the more apt you are to slip in public," Harry was now trying to use logic.
"Hush, Harry."
"Yes dear."
"Mum said we sound like an old married couple and even seem to know what the other is thinking." Hermione said with a smile from ear to ear.
"Perhaps we should take care of that in a couple of years. You do know a couple means two don't you?" Harry replied with his own smile.
"How about we get married on my 16th birthday?" she asked timidly.
"If you wish Lady Granger-Hufflepuff it sounds alright with me. In fact I was thinking on my birthday since its sooner but I can wait seven more weeks maybe." Harry replied shocking her.
"I'll tell Mum then all right," Hermione said while doing an Irish jig in her mind.
"Yes but I'm a bit worried about Liz getting into the act Hermione." Harry voiced his biggest worry.
"Maybe we can convince her we like small and private if she gets involved. Besides we have a bit over 27 months but who is counting." Hermione replied trying to put her own fear aside.
"I am," Harry, replied which got him lots of kisses and he loved every one.
"Boss, when you come up for air, there's some one here that wants to meet you. I believe he said his name was mooey or something like that," Tonks said with a grin.
Hermione got off Harry's lap and Harry stood and asked, "Is it Mooney?"
"Well the last time I heard you say it, it was more like mooey but it is Mooney."
Meeting Remus John Lupin
Harry hugged Remus then stepped back and said, "Mooney you look like shit, hasn't Gringotts contacted you yet?"
"No but I've been on the move a lot and just got a letter from Professor Sprout why?" Remus said indicating he wasn't affronted by Harry's words.
"Dad and Mum left you and Sirius each a half-million. Hermione this is my pseudo Uncle Remus John Lupin known as Mooney the brains behind the Marauders. Well until Mum joined, he was the brains. Remus this is my betrothed Lady Hermione Jean Granger-Hufflepuff the smartest witch of our age and perhaps any other as well." Harry said with pride showing in his voice.
Remus kissed her hand and said, "It's a pleasure Ma'am."
"Remus its Hermione, I see you've already met Dora, our Chief of Security," Hermione said shocking Remus.
"Wait a minute you two. I flooed Pomona and told her about my furry problem and she said the owners wouldn't care as they intended to allow werewolves attend school and provide Wolfsbane. She never said who the owners are, and I've been out of contact the last couple of weeks. You two own Hogwarts?" Remus asked as he latterly flopped into a chair.
"It's Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin at your service my good sir. And yes my beautiful, sweet, and extremely kind, and intelligent fiancé and I own this nuthouse." Harry said with a bow and sweep of his right arm.
"Hermione he's trying for a good snogging again," Dora said with a giggle at the end.
"I know Dora but he'll have to wait, business first you know. Huummm… Harry love, get one of Sirius' new robes for Remus and I'll resize it for him. He needs to make a good first impression on Headmistress Sprout," Hermione told her betrothed.
"Wait, where's Dumbledore?" Remus asked now really shocked to the core.
"He ran afoul of Harry James Potter and managed to get himself sent through the veil not long before Lucky Lucy Malfoy, and Snivilus Sally Snape. We'll show you the memories later we need you cleaned up. Lady Hogwarts we need a suite for soon to be Professor Lupin," Hermione replied like this was normal for them.
"As you wish my Lady Hufflepuff, it is next to Lord Black's suite."
"Thank you Lady Hogwarts."
"Remus, shower, shave, and whatever men do, Dobby will bring you the robes and he can size them easier than I can." Hermione said to Remus who was trying to get past the shock.
"Tonks is it always like this," Remus sputtered while trying to clear his head.
"No this is quiet and relaxed compared to the norm," Tonks replied with a smile.
"Mooney?"
"Padfoot?"
The two men hugged, stepped back, and hugged again. Hermione told Sirius what she had Harry do and he quickly approved. Remus cleaned up pretty well and went to see Pomona Sprout.
"Well mutt?"
"Well what?"
"Well you're going to get hexed with the hair penis in about one-half second if you don't tell us what you're teaching." Hermione stated and slid her wand into her hand.
"Oh that. Defense for years 3, 4, and 5 assuming she can find two more teachers for years 1 and 2 and 6 and 7. She's thinking whoever teaches the other two classes may assist in Charms or Transfiguration to get their hours up a bit. That will change once the student body numbers increase. She's still in a learning curve and asking for suggestions," Sirius replied while keeping an eye on Hermione's wand.
"Yes I bet. The staff isn't used to being asked what they truly think or for suggestions. I'm thinking we should keep class size to around ten or twelve for most classes. What do you think Hermione?" Harry asked his future wife and co-owner.
"I think that's a good idea but until we get the numbers up we may want to have the Defense and others have at least two Professors in each class especially the first 5 years. NEWT classes tend to be smaller and less dangerous because the students have more control of their magic and need less individual help." Hermione replied and smiled at Harry.
"As usual my lovely fiancé comes through with another great idea. Can anyone here give me a reason we teach Astronomy or Astrology and how it's used after we leave school?" Harry asked in his serious mode.
"Well other than the Astronomy tower being a good make out place I never found a use for it. Of course, the Centaurs would disagree with that. I always wondered why it was taught so late when it gets dark so early this far north most of the school year." Sirius replied.
Remus came back and they all looked at him waiting.
"Defense years 1 and 2, she suggested that Sirius and I teach the first 5 years together to provide a smaller student teacher ratio while the younger ones learn to control their magic. She wants to keep classes at 12 or less for those years at least. She said big changes are coming, this Lord Gryffindor is insisting on making this the best school and she intends to see that happen. She also said that she wants ideas from the staff. Damn she's not the meek quiet Professor Sprout I knew." Remus said indicating he was impressed with his new boss.
"Remus rather than us telling you what's been happening, I'll give you a crystal and let you see for yourself then we'll answer any questions you have. A lot of what you see needs to stay between us. But you'll know what when you see it. Hermione and Dora's parents will be here for dinner. The fireplace is both a secure floo and a secure portal to the Granger and Tonks homes. They'll give you the passwords once they get here. The passwords are under a Fidelius charm. We can eat here or in the Great Hall your choice, but Hermione and I should make an appearance. We usually eat breakfast and lunch at the founders table, then most dinners is in here." Harry stated with a smile.
"Then if it's alright with everyone we'll eat in the Great Hall," Sirius said.
They left the suite and ended up behind Fred and George.
"Oi, devil twins, there's someone I want you two to meet."
"Of course milord Gryffindor," They said as one.
"Alright super gits, best behavior as you are in the presence of two of Hogwarts best. May I present Messer's Mooney and Padfoot, also known as Remus Lupin and Sirius Black?"
"Harrykins you wouldn't put us on about something as serious as that now would you?"
"No George, he's Sirius I'm Harry," Harry said with a snigger.
With hands above their heads, they bowed and said, "Oh great masters of pranks and mayhem we are not worthy to be in your presence."
"Mooney, I think I detect budding pranksters that may need some guidance. What say you, oh thinker of the Marauders," Sirius said with a smile.
"I think you may be right, however based upon the briefing we received perhaps they should be led to the path of knowledge first to see that they are truly worthy. Remember Padfoot we kept our grades in the top ten in all classes. With great knowledge comes power and great pranks," Remus replied with dancing eyes watching the twins. In the Great Hall Pomona, Minerva, and Filius felt like ice water had just been poured down their spines.
"Prongslet, now you see why Mooney was the brains behind the marauders until Tiger Lily joined us with her infinite wisdom," Padfoot said with a grin.
"Fred, George you may want to brief these two old and ancient men on what we three talked about. They may not be up to the high jinks they once were but their brains still work. Well at least one does I'm not sure Padfoot has anything but women on his brain as small as it is," Harry said and Hermione giggled as Dora joined her.
"Hey Pup, eleven years in Azkaban remember?" Padfoot said.
"Yes, I'm too young to fully understand, but I don't like being away from Hermione for very long. I'm not sure your previous ways will get you what you want. The women today seem to want treated as equals and with respect, not as docile creatures to be brought out and displayed like a trophy," Harry said with an evil grin.
"Damn Mutt, he sounds like James but thinks like Lil's," Remus said looking at Harry.
"Yes wolfie I said the same thing," Sirius said with a smile.
"Wolfie, I like that. Mutt and Wolfie what do you think Hermione, Dora?" Harry asked the two ladies.
"I think it fits Harry," Hermione answered.
"It really does, but I still like Chief rather than Boss for Harry, what do you think Hermione?" Dora agreed.
"Well in the old days he would definitely be the clan chief, and he doesn't really like being called by his title so I think Chief is more appropriate. Boss sounds like someone that's hard to approach and doesn't fit my Harry at all. So I like Chief, Dora," Hermione replied while looking at Harry with and evil grin.
"Then Chief it is and he can learn to live with it, I'm sure kisses will get him used to it faster." Tonks said and kissed Harry's cheek while Hermione kissed the other.
Harry's face turned red while Sirius and Remus laughed. They entered the Great Hall and went to the founders table. After lunch, the Headmistress introduced Sirius and Remus telling the students what they would be teaching. To everyone's surprise, Sirius stood and said he and Remus would meet with years one through four to see where they stood in defense. They were also told to prepare themselves for homework over the summer.
After lunch Harry, Hermione and Pomona Sprout met in the Gryffindor suite.
Hermione started by saying, "Headmistress what would you think of showing muggle movies in the new common room next term? These would be free and open to all students. We would also like to add a section of muggle books to the library. These would include both non-fiction and novels from the United Kingdom and the United States. The movies while fiction will give students an idea what the muggle world is really like as far as vehicles and some of their customs go. We can also show television shows, many of which are educational and some are funny."
Harry picked up and continued, "The first generation students and half bloods raised in the muggle world can explain what is true and what is fiction. Hermione and I believe this will help them integrate with pure bloods on a more personal basis."
"I've seen several muggle movies but hadn't thought of the possibility of showing them here. I think it's a great idea Harry but how are we going to do that doesn't it take special equipment?" Pomona asked a valid question.
Hermione replied with a smile. "Headmistress they have what is called a DVD and player that stores a movie that can be shown at home on a television or projection device. These disks, as they're called, store the movies as pulses of light so they should work here once we get electricity. These DVDs can be purchased for less than ₲2 each and they are producing more every day. A good projection unit and sound system is about ₲750 including the DVD player."
"Could these devices be used in class rather than the current blackboards?" Pomona asked now getting quite interested in the potential.
"Yes. Ragnok has a way to convert DVDs to crystals and vice versa. You know if Professor Sinistra used her memories of what she wanted to teach and converted them to DVDs Astronomy could be held during the day. With the right projector, she could zoom in or out to show what she wanted to get across to the students. I still question the usefulness of Astronomy as a required course through OWLs. I have no problem with it as an elective. But spending five years studying something I don't have a use for after school is a bit much in my opinion." Harry answered more honestly than some Professors would have liked.
"What about Divination?" Pomona asked gently, knowing Minerva's opinion on the subject, which mirrored hers.
"From what we know a seer either has the ability or doesn't. I think it's used as a free period or an easy grade. It seems to me, it would be easy to make a bunch of things up that can't be proven and turn those in. Is there and OWL or NEWT exam for that subject. If so how would anyone test it? I've heard the Professor predicts the death of one student each year and none of her prediction have been accurate. I've also heard she likes her sherry and burns incense in class that is so heavy even the most dedicated have fallen asleep." Harry paused to let that sink in a bit.
"Those two things need to stop. I know she's the one that made the prophecy about Harry and Moldyshorts that Dumbassadork believed. It seems he hired her to keep her safe or under his thumb. I would think a check to see if a student has the seer ability then private tutoring would be more effective than a formal class open to all." Hermione continued their answer.
After Pomona agreed, the meeting broke up leaving as many questions as answers. Harry and Hermione went back to reading, kissing, and repeating those two actions until the others returned.
"Chief I have news." Dora said.