Chapter 13
Hogwarts Spring 1994
Sirius, Remus, and the twins came up with a phosphorus grenade that would explode in the air and the small phosphorus balls would explode when encountering any resistance to their path of travel. They really needed to test it on the actual Inferi.
"I know just the place, its overrun with them according to Ragnok. There's a bunch of them in a lake, that's inside of a cave. The trick will be getting enough of them to surface without having to deal with hundreds of them."
"Harry inside a cave with phosphorus is not a good idea since it burns the oxygen out of the air. That will affect us but not the Inferi." Gunny said.
"Shit, it wouldn't have worked anyway, the Goblins sealed the cave." Harry stated.
"Harry the Caribbean island people sometime use Inferi in rituals and for slaves." Gunny replied.
"They probably won't want to part with them then. Hell they may be family members or something." Harry stated showing his irritation.
"Harry quit, now take ten deep breaths, and then let's work this out." Hermione said and rubbed his shoulders.
"Yes dear."
Harry thought then asked, "Gunny what about land mines? Aren't there some that jump up then explode? Are there any that could be remotely triggered?"
"Yes, Mitch and I discussed them earlier, the problem is where to place them Harry." Gunny replied with a faraway look in his eyes.
"Alright let's put ourselves in Voldemort's position and see how he did things before that worked for him. If there is an all out attack let's find it, if not let's look at how Grindlewald used giants and Inferi. I think it is best if we can take Moldyshorts out before he gets a body back. How many Death Eaters haven't been rounded up yet? Where can he go except Little Hangleton? If we double the size of the grenades what are their range from 500 feet up? Is a can shape better than a ball? Where besides the castle can we put snipers with portals to get back to the towers? We already have lightened the M82A1's so one shooter can carry it. We know that it needs two minutes to cool down after every 50 rounds."
It was mid April before they got answers, some of which were good. A can shape was better than a ball. At 500 feet, a flyer only needed to worry about dragons. There were four places sniper teams could hide and cover the gate and the forest. The Centaurs agreed to warn them if anyone tried to enter the forest. There was no word on Moldyshorts and his whereabouts.
2 May 1994
At 02:12, the wards pinged at the Riddle Manor outside of Little Hangleton. By 02:16, thirty men and women in M Team fatigues appeared 800 yards from the Manor and went to predetermined locations. Gunny and Mitchell scanned the old manor with infra binoculars and found four humans one was not much bigger than a baby was. They also found a cold-blooded animal most probably a large snake. When the strike team got within 100 yards, Harry put up antiapparation wards, anti portkey wards. Then he added the Death Eater pain and incapacitating wards. Gunny and Mitchell indicated that three were down, and the small being was the only thing with a warm blood heat signature moving and it was moving slowly. Then they said the large cold-blooded being was most probably a snake. Five men loaded a round in their M4's, and blew the entry door inward. Five 20 round bursts sounded in the night and the snake quit moving. A green curse came out of the upstairs room where small being was. Harry whispered Moldyshorts to the team.
"Hey Tommy boy, how you feeling? Your snake didn't survive muggle bullets throw your wand down the stairs and live to reach a trial." Harry yelled.
"Who dares call the most powerful dark lord ever by that name?" Tom asked in a squeaky voice.
"Come on Ton Marvolo Riddle be proud of your muggle father. Now be a good boy or Harry Potter will come and spank your old ass," Harry said to rile him up.
"Harry Potter I have gone farther down the road to immortality than anyone. I cannot be killed, yes you destroyed my body but I am back you see," Tom stated and didn't like it when Harry laughed at him.
"Oh Tom how wrong you are. Let me count them for you, the diary given by dear Lucky Lucy Malfoy, the Cup in your dear Bella's vault that belongs to my fiancé. That's only two. Oh, yes Slytherin's ring that I now wear, and Rowena's diadem that belongs to her heir, which would be me. Then there is Slytherin's locket stolen by Regulus Black that also belongs to me. That leaves the possibility of your dear familiar that is now mincemeat. Then there was me Tommy boy, did you really mean to make me a horcrux. Well the Goblin curse breakers took care of it also. Guess what Tommy you're mortal and don't sound in the best of shape," Harry paused and listened for a reply.
"Let's see what could you be, a possessed fetus in the ninth month surely not something that needs nourishment four times a day. Snake venom milk must taste awful Tom. Of course, there isn't enough of the head left to get anything. Expelliarmus, Accio Tom Riddle's wand," The wand came to Harry.
"Oh my, a brother to my wand, both with the tail feathers from Fawkes. Now what to do with you, we can't have you coming back so the fact your gone must be provable. I have it, a short trip through the veil so you may join Dumbledore and your Death Eaters. These three will join you. Damn Tom good help is hard to get but really scraping the bottom of the barrel like this is pathetic. Wingardium Leviosa Tom Riddle."
Harry floated Moldyshorts down the stairs then encased him in a sealed glass container. He freed the other three Death Eaters after taking their wands and sending a patronus to Minister Bones. It didn't take long for her, Kinglsey Shacklebolt, Gawain Robards, and Croaker to arrive. They arrived and found Harry pissing on Moldyshorts' enclosure. He finished and zipped up his uniform pants.
"Good morning Minister, we men will leave if you ladies would like the same opportunity. Unfortunately, when what passes for a body dies, he'll be back in spirit form. Unenclosed he may have four to six hours. Enclosed, he has about ten more minutes if he's lucky. His 'flight from death' is over it seems. My suggestion is straight through the veil, and we will give our memories to the Wizengamot and press tomorrow or when we put these three Death Eaters on trial." Harry said with a huge smile on his face.
"Oh, yes. Croaker would you verify the last curse this wand cast and the magical signature of the person or thing that cast the curse." Harry asked and hand Croaker Tom's wand.
"Its Voldemort's magical signature and the Avada Kedavra was the last curse cast," Croaker said dryly but with a smile.
"Thank you the wand is now mine by right of conquest as are these other three belonging to the trash that are bound. I do believe the large one is Grayback so keep him in magical suppression handcuffs if I have to go after the bastard I go after his guards as well," Harry stated firmly.
"Harry James Potter language," Hermione huffed.
"Yes dear."
"Gunny you and your team are rubbing off on my fiancé," Hermione said looking a Gunny.
"Missy and that's a bad thing how? Your future husband is a warrior and we have our own language. As colorful as it may be, it's ours and understood by each of us," Gunny stated in full Sergeant Major mode but smiling at Hermione.
As Gunny and Hermione faced off the three Death Eaters screamed and died. Harry looked at Voldemort, he gasped once, and his chest stopped moving up and down. Tom Marvolo Riddle was meeting his maker he was gone from the earth never to return. There was no glorious final battle. What did happen is that many who would have perished could now live a normal life without the fear that he would return. Thirty-four witches and wizards, plus four bodies apparated into the Ministry atrium, and from there they went to the Department of Mysteries. Croaker led them to the Veil room where the bodies were sent through the veil and on to their next great adventure.
2 May 1994 Great Hall breakfast time
All students were sitting impatiently to eat when Harry and Hermione, Dora, and Gunny stood from the founders table. Harry walked to the front of the staff table and a podium appeared.
"Good morning students and staff it gives me great pleasure to make the following announcement. At 02:12, this morning I was warned that the wizard Tom Marvolo Riddle, known to many of you as Lord Voldemort, arrived in his muggle father's old manor house. Your security team, Lady Granger-Hufflepuff-Galahad, professors Black and Lupin, and I arrived outside the manor four minutes later. After a short battle three Death Eaters including Fenrir Greyback were captured," Harry paused for that to sink in.
"Then Moldyshorts' familiar was killed using muggle weapons. Tom Riddle chose to cast an Avada Kedavra it turned out to be his last one. I took his wand and encased him so he could not escape in spirit form. At approximately 02:45 Tom Marvolo Riddle passed away. In fighting death, he drew the magic of his marked Death Eaters and the three we captured died. Our Minister, Croaker, the Director of the DLME, and the Chief Auror all were present when this occurred. We all agreed our only option to insure this despicable being never returned was to send his remains through the veil and that's what we did." Harry paused again to let his words sink in.
"Voldemort is truly dead and gone. However, there cannot be light without darkness so sooner or later another will try to rise. Live your lives but do not become complacent or dependant on others to do your fighting for you. The next bit of news is that the Headmistress and I agree that with the first news, classes today would be a waste of time so do your celebrating today because tomorrow is another class day." Harry said then waited for the cheers to die down.
"To our security team I would like to say well done. I found it quite comforting to know such fine people had my back covered as we went to do battle. To my beautiful fiancé, I would like to say congratulations on your 27 OWLs. You have set the bar for others to reach my love. For those who do not know how the ICW counts OWLs to reach a total you get one for an A, E, or O, you get two for an O+ and three for O++. Out of ten tests and a possible 30 OWLs my future wife got 27 I'm so proud of her I could spit, yes Fred and George S.P.I.T." Harry turned the podium over to Hermione.
"What my future husband is too shy to say is that he got 24, himself. Not too bad for a wizard ladies don't you think. Of course no man is as smart as a woman is, better at some things yes, smarter no way. I would also like to thank the M Team for covering our backs. There was no doubt when we arrived that Moldyshorts was there and that he was going down. The real problem was how to do it and not get any of us hurt. Gunny, Mitchell, and Harry came up with a plan and it ran almost as if it was meant to. However, as Gunny so often said a plan is good only until first contact with the enemy. The glitch in our plan turned out to be a highly poisonous 20-foot snake that was Moldyshorts' familiar. Our M Team made short work, well snake hamburger, of the beast and the rest as they say is history. We will only have half of the elves on duty today and the other half will be off tomorrow so please be patient if service is slightly slower than usual. Thank you." She said and joined Harry.
Hermione joined the team as Harry waved them forward to a standing ovation. Around noon, Minister Bones came to the suite. "Harry the press is going nuts wanting an interview with you. They're bitching they can't get in your Earldoms and want to know why." Amelia said in her I expect an answer voice.
"The why is I like my privacy and I don't owe the press a thing. When I choose to I'll sit down with the editor of the Daily Prophet until then my answer is no interview and no statement. Have any of them ended up in the channel yet?" Harry asked with a snigger.
"Oh Lord, I don't know, could that happen?" Amelia asked afraid of the answer.
"It not only could but will the third time they try to cross my wards uninvited. No press means No Press, not maybe, not yes, it means NO PRESS and Amy you can quote me on that. I never thought I would say this but Dumbassadork had one thing right. Someone needed to hide me when I was a baby. The press then must have been real animals," Harry said cheekily with an evil grin.
She patted his cheek and said, "You're such a cute and lovable total asshole Harry James Potter."
"Thanks Amy I love you too. Knowing you, you've already ratted me out to Her Majesty," He said with the same smile.
"You can bet on that, oh great one," She replied showing him she could be cheeky just like him.
"Don't you have a Ministry to run or something to do except harass us poor little boys." Harry asked and sniggered.
"I'll see you at Buckingham Palace tonight, good day Harry," Amy said and stepped through the portal to her office laughing.
"What, damn it! Dora, Gunny front and center! Hermione where are you?" Harry yelled.
"Harry hush I'm talking to Liz," Hermione said holding her hand over the phones transmitter.
"Oh shit where is my frigging pistol I wanna kill something?" Harry mumbled to anyone who would hear him.
"Harry what the hell is the shouting for?" Tonks came running in asking.
"Amy was just here Dora. The press is raising hell and bitching for a fucking interview. If that isn't enough, she ratted me out to Liz, and left saying she'll see me at the palace tonight. Hermione is talking to Liz now. If I'm sucked into this, the whole team, their wives, Sirius, Remus, Ted, Andy, Dan and Emma and everyone. You're all fucking going with me. Why the fuck can't I just relax for a day or so. We have NEWTs in less than two fucking weeks. Where is Tom when I need something to kill? Shit." Harry ranted while the others fell down laughing at him.
Gunny walked to the bar, poured two glasses of firewiskey and handed one to Harry then said. "down the hatch Marine!"
"Yes Sergeant Major," Harry said.
Hermione walked in as Harry and Gunny drained their glasses. "Harry James Potter, are you drinking?"
"Hush Missy his adrenaline is coming down. Its either this or he needs to kill something. A sobering charm in about two hours will do him just fine." Gunny said as Harry passed out, a glass if firewiskey in a fourteen-year-old body hits quick and hard.
"Well I did that after my first action, and then puked it up. This is a lot better than for him to be sulking for months Hermione. Now put him to bed then lay down and hold him. He will appreciate it when he comes to. This has been building up for awhile. He has worried himself almost sick at the thought of how many could be lost if Moldyshorts attacked his school. That suddenly went away and now there is an unfilled void and he doesn't know what to do next. He will need all of us to point him in the right direction. You're his rock Hermione, and for all our sakes take care of him," Gunny said and gave Hermione a hug and a kiss on the forehead.
Harry woke up looking into those beautiful chocolate eyes he loved so much. Then her soft voice said gently, "do you feel better love?"
"Dunno, headache, upset stomach, run over by a lorry all comes to mind. But comfortable and don' wanna move," Harry grumbled all at once.
"Ok, I guess the headache and sobering potions can wait. But I need to use the loo." She kissed his cheek, got out of his bed, and went into the bathroom. He mumbled and drank down the potions then did the breath freshening charm and the teeth cleaning charm. Then it dawned on him Moldyshorts was dead and they hadn't lost anyone on their side.
Hermione returned and hopped back in bed with him then said, "It's hard to believe you did it and everyone is safe."
"No Hermione we did it not me, all of us were there. Each of us had a job and did their duty. I was just in the right place at the right time or wrong place at the wrong time depending on how you look at it. How do we go about being normal teenagers now?" Harry asked in serious voice.
"Harry love, you've never been normal and neither have I really. The nearest we did to normal was the first year with the weasel, and that damn sure wasn't normal. We are the youngest and second youngest to get our OWLs and will be again when we get our NEWTs." Hermione reminded her fiancé and kissed his nose.
"My turn to use the loo love, are you hungry?" Harry said and rand for the bathroom.
"A bit do you want soup and sandwiches?" she asked.
"Vegetable beef soup or stew but no sandwiches will be enough for me. I think I'll wait a few years before trying firewiskey again," Harry admitted with a shudder.
"Good idea Harry our bodies aren't ready for that yet," she said and thought and some other things I'd like us to do damn it.
Harry went to his bathroom and did his business then showered and changed clothes. When he walked into the common room Dora asked, "Chief, you ok now?"
"Yeh thanks Dora I'll make it thanks to you and Gunny." Harry replied seeming to be his normal self whatever that was.
"Harry the battle may not have been a big one but the emotions weren't any less. We can laugh and joke about Moldyshorts all we want, but he was a very dangerous wizard. We didn't lose anyone and got the job done. It's the end result that counts and that result is he's gone and we're here," Dora reminded the two teens.
Gunny came in and set the Daily Prophet down, the headline read:
Headmaster Igor Karkaroff Found Dead.
Durmstrang Institute Deputy Headmaster announced when he went to check why Headmaster Karkaroff didn't come to his scheduled staff meeting the Headmaster was in his bed dead. The school's healer initial autopsy indicates that his magic was drained as he slept and his dark mark had turned red.
Director Croaker said in an interview that Voldemort used the dark mark not only to communicate and cause pain but also to drain magic from his followers. This indicates that all Death Eaters who wore the mark are dead thanks to Lord Potter-Gryffindor and his M Team that provide security at Hogwarts. Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin has been unavailable for comments to the press. We all hope our young savior is all right.
"Young savior my ass, I had the best team in the world as backup at least they were mentioned," Harry grumbled and threw the paper down in anger.
"Harry this is normal the grunts do the work and the leader gets the credit," Gunny said from experience of an old time Marine.
"Gunny that's bullshit and we both know it. They want a fucking statement they're about to get one," Harry ranted.
"Later Chief, right now the question is, how do we dress for the meeting with Her Majesty?" Gunny asked to get Harry's mind off of the press.
"We dress just like we went this morning Gunny, less the muggle weapons, so wands only. Phillip, Charles, Andrew, and Edward all served in their Navy I believe. We don't have dress uniforms but we can decide later if that's something that we want to consider. I'll leave that up to the men. I know you'll tell them it gives them an edge with the ladies, but there is no time to worry about it today." Harry stated the obvious.
"Well chief that isn't quite true, you see when we decided on our fatigues we also decided on a mess dress. There just hasn't been an occasion to discuss or use it," Gunny replied with a grin.
"Why am I not surprised, I suppose you have one for me, Hermione, Dora and the others as well." Harry said with a smile.
"Anticipating the old man's needs is a learned skill, chief." Gunny replied cheekily and sniggered.
"Ok that's settled, I need to set the portals and go see where she wants us to determine if we need to expand the room and add seating." Harry told his Top Sergeant.
"Harry, that's already done. Remember the runes we placed?" Hermione replied.
"Yes but what about her staff? They'll see the increase in size." Harry asked knowing she had an answer waiting.
"True, but they won't remember anything different or the number of people in the room as being unusual. I'll activate the runes when we arrive and deactivate them when we leave Harry." She said with a smile.
"Lord I do love a smart woman and my Hermione is the smartest I know."
Buckingham Palace
Harry and team arrived through the portal. Harry handed Her Majesty's chief of staff their written oaths, saying it should save all of them time and suggesting they be kept on file. Harry led his team into the Queen's Chamber and introduced them individually to Her Majesty and the Royal Family. Amelia Bones looked in shock at how they were dressed as Mad Eye, Kingsley, Gawain, and Croaker smiled and shook their heads. Harry had four stars, Hermione one, Dora wore colonel's eagles, Sirius and Remus wore private first class stripes, and the team wore their last ranks.
"Four stars Harry, aren't you a bit young for that rank?" Mad Eye asked but in a pleasant way.
"The team did that, Mad Eye isn't it?" Gunny asked.
"Yes and you're Gunny right?" Mad Eye replied back.
"Yes, anyway the team decided we weren't going to work for no low rank with his head in the sand. We work for either the top dog or no one. Harry, of course, didn't want a rank, being a civilian and all that rot. Once it was explained in four letter Marine language he understood, and went along with us. We wanted a strong leader and since none of us can out duel the young snot, we got our wish in spades," Gunny stated with a grin.
"I believe that's modified Marine mess dress you're wearing?" Prince Andrew asked.
"Yes Your Royal Highness it is," Gunny replied kindly.
"Sergeant Major in here its Ma'am or sir, no titles are necessary," Prince Andrew said
"Thank you sir," Gunny replied with a smile.
"Harry?"
"Yes Liz."
"One of the reasons we asked you here is to determine what to do for you," Her Majesty stated.
"Nothing immediately comes to my mind Liz," Harry replied honestly.
"That's not possible, the papers and electronic news have already broadcast that your group took down a terrorist cell including its leader that has been dormant since 1981. Our switchboard has been lit up constantly and our email system shut down from overload. They all want to know who you are, and what we're going to do to honor you." She said a bit more forcefully.
"My position is simple. I'll accept nothing that doesn't include the entire team. This was not the act of one individual. This was a team effort we've been training for since last August, anything less than that, and we simply fade away. That goes for the Ministry of Magic as well. With over 30 places around the world many of them unplotable and otherwise hidden we have a lot of options. Everyone here did their assigned job without question. I happened to be in the position to take Moldyshorts down and took advantage of that. Anyone of my people could, and would have done the same." Harry said with no malice, but no smile either.
"Harry James Potter you do know not give your Queen conditions right?" Hermione stated showing her shock.
"Hermione love those weren't conditions they were options available so she may make a decision that suits her and our interest. I believe that's what good advisors are paid to do," Harry told his future bride.
"Hermione he's right and we were planning on honoring the entire team anyway. The problem is Harry's age. How do we explain a 14 year old did what no adult could do and leads a team that at least ten years or more his senior. That just doesn't wash out very well." Her Majesty stated.
"Glamour charm Liz," Harry said and waved his hand over his face and aged 20 years. Then he asked, "Is this suitable for what you need?"
"A young looking 41 year old, wearing four stars, leading a special task force of former United States Marines is believable. We don't state your age unless it's necessary, we can say you came from Canada as an orphan and went to a military private school in the U.S.," Liz stated.
Harry then showed the memories of what happened from five different perspectives.
Dan made the comment that was on the princes' mind, "bloody hell I've never seen teamwork approach that level, the SAS couldn't have carried it off that smoothly. Whoops excuse my language Ma'am."
"Dan you only said what we were thinking there is nothing to excuse. But we must say this explains Harry's attitude. Any commander worth being called that would do the same. Tell us Dora how long did it take before he got drunk?" Her Majesty asked the young Auror.
"What?"
"Hush Harry, it took nearly eight hours then Gunny handed him a glass of firewiskey and told him down the hatch. He gulped down and passed out like a light. Two hours later and a headache and sobering potions, and he was almost fit to live with again. Well he's back to his ornery self at least, and no longer wants to kill something," She replied honestly but with an evil grin.
"Liz whatever you do, I'd like it as small and private as possible and put off as long as is feasible, at least until summer. You can leak I'm still looking for stragglers I suspect killed my parents in Canada or some such rot. Minister with the exception of you four I could care less about the Ministry of Magic and those who work there. And this boy-who-lived and savior bull dung will get the opposite of what the sheeple want. If the Wizengamot tries to honor me and not my team, I'll embarrass the hell out of them and the Ministry for going along with it and that's my promise," Harry pause for a moment.
"The Goblins aided us as did the elves and Centaurs and that needs to be made public in other than the letter I wrote to the editor of the Daily Prophet. Be advised tomorrow headline may read Lord Potter threatened to destroy the Daily Prophet. Of course, it belongs to me so I can if I wish. The other possibility is that he will print the letter as I asked him to." Harry said his evil smile showing that he meant what he said.
They ate and made small talk with the Royal Family. Harry wished Andrew was younger or he was older. Because he thought they might be fast friends, but the age difference and experiences were just too great for that to happen.
Liz, Hermione, Emma, Andy, and Dora had their heads together. Harry figured, correctly, they were discussing a wedding that would happen in just over 503 days, not that he was counting mind you. He smiled thinking correctly that Hermione could tell you how many hours or minutes. At 21:00 the team stepped back through the portal.
"Gunny our boss sure has big balls. I mean staring down Her Majesty just isn't done here," Master Sergeant Mitchell said and drank part of his beer.
"Mitch you're not telling me anything I didn't figure out when we first met. Tell our guys that don't have Masteries to get in gear, I think he'll be adding to the security team and some of us will move to teaching. This school is going to grow and we're in at the beginning which is a good thing my friend." Gunny replied and smiled at his old friend.
4 May 1994
Harry smiled as he read the Daily Prophet and ate his breakfast.
It was the M Team that took down Tom Riddle
By Michael Jason, Editor
Yesterday I received the following letter from Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin. He asked that it be printed as written and then make any comments I wish.
On 3 May 1994 at approximately 02:12, I was notified by alarm wards placed on Tom Riddle Sr.'s home that wizards had entered the home. At about 02:16 the M Team, security force at Hogwarts apparated to within 800 yards of the house. Using muggle technology, we discovered there were four warm-blooded mammals in the house that were shaped like humans. In addition, there was something that was cold blooded, a reptile, or a snake. Estimates indicated the beast was approximately 20 feet long.
The M Team deployed to preplanned stations and trained their muggle weapons on the building covering the windows and doors. A team of five including me closed in on the house and put up wards to keep those inside the house in and other wizard and muggles out of the area. Then we blew open the front door and captured three Death Eaters including Greyback. They were bound and out of the fight. A large snake appeared and the four-team members with me literally blew it into mincemeat.
Moldyshorts or Tom Marvolo Riddle and I had words then he tried a Killing Curse that missed. I took his wand and encased him so he could not escape as a spirit as he did in 1992. When he died, the Death Eaters died as he had drained their magic while struggling to keep himself alive. The mark the Death Eaters were so proud to wear allowed him to draw on their magic to the point it killed them. I have no sympathy for fools, and the Death Eaters were fools following a half blood that was out to destroy our world and tying their magic to his. In my opinion, they got what they deserved. The Minister was notified and when she arrived, we took Moldyshorts and the three dead Death Eaters and sent them through the Veil.
This planned and practiced operation took 31 individual witches and wizards to pull off. I didn't do this alone I had the best help I could ask for. I will not accept individual praise, praise the team not me. I am not the savior my team is. If anyone deserves to be called savior, it is the team. Reporters have been begging for an interview, well you have all I will say. If you fools continue to test my wards, you'll find yourself 1/4th mile out in the channel so you best know how to swim. The team and I want to live in peace, and if we have to leave the United Kingdom to do that, we will. However, if that happens, Hogwarts will close and disappear from your view. Your children are now receiving the best magical education available. If we leave that ends.
Respectfully,
Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin
It is this Editor's belief that Lord Potter means every word he said and any reporter working for the Daily Prophet will remove themselves from anywhere near his Earldoms or be terminated immediately without pay. As you all can see this was not a one-man operation but a team effort and honors given must be given to the team and not a single individual. I for one do not want him and his team leaving these shores and closing Hogwarts. In my opinion, this would be a disaster rivaling the first rise of Moldyshorts or even worse.
"Well Hermione, I sure laid it on thick but they printed word for word what I wrote." Harry said with a smile.
"Do you think it will make a difference Harry?" Hermione asked quietly.
"I hope so love, leaving for vacation is one thing but this was the first place I thought of as home and I don't want to lose that. Did you ladies get our wedding all planned last evening?" Harry asked shocking the women.
"Harry you must be kidding right, we only started a basic plan. But Liz did agree to keep it private and that surprised me. You need to start thinking about choosing a best man." Hermione told him.
"I think Neville would make a good one, it seems that he and Ginny are becoming an item," Harry said with a smile.
"I heard she did the hair penis on the twins for ragging Neville. Fortunately she just did it for one day to let them know she could do it," Hermione said with an evil grin.
"Good for her. Fred and George say Ronald is growing up and has learned what being a friend is all about. They say he's getting fair at charms and never asks to play chess anymore. They have a letter of apology for each of us, but Hermione I just can't get interested in what he has to say. For me, it just has no meaning. I no longer want to kill him, but then he isn't around as a reminder either." Harry said in a flat tone.
"Gin says he will start at the London Academy of Magic in the fall. I feel the same way you do, and decided to let that sleeping dog lay. Harry you're going to enter the tournament next year aren't you?" Hermione asked with a smile.
"You know me too well, but the thought has crossed my mind." Harry admitted with a snigger.
"There is a little known rule that says there can be two champions from each school. However, that rule is in effect only if two names come out of the goblet for one school first. We know the other schools that only those who are considered adults can enter. Knowing Dumbassadork he meant it to be 17 or older, but that was not what was agreed to so you can legally enter. Or you could ensure that two names come out for Durmstrang and insisting each school has two champions." Hermione mused and kissed Harry on the nose.
"There is the woman I love so much misdirecting the attention from us while getting what we want, I like it." Harry said and hugged her tight.
Chapter 14
Hogwarts
On 16 May, Harry and Hermione were back in Paris sitting their NEWTs. They were simply trying to do their best and not worry about numbers. These exams were a lot more difficult than their OWLs but they were happy when they got their scores on Friday 20 May.
Harry had taken Arithmancy O++, Astronomy O, Charms O++, COMC O++, Defense O++, Herbology O, Mundane Studies O++, Potions O++, Runes O++, and Transfiguration O++. Harry had 26 NEWTs.
Hermione had taken Arithmancy O++, Astronomy O+, Charms O++, COMC O+, Defense O++, Healing O++, Herbology O++, Mundane Studies O++, Potions O++, Runes O++, and Transfiguration O++. Hermione had 31 NEWTs.
Harry turned in his thesis for Defense, Charms, Transfiguration, and Runes. Hermione turned in Healing, Charms, Arithmancy, and Runes. They were told they may have to defend their work sometime in January or February.
Harry and Hermione discovered hormones and decided this wasn't necessarily a good thing.
"Harry we need to set limits before we go too far and I'm as bad as or worse than you for wanting to take the next step." Hermione admitted and sighed but with a smile.
"Hermione my limit is simple, when you say no it means no not maybe. If it means cold showers, or taking things in hand, then that's the way it will happen. But sooner or later we need to go on the potion, so if things to get too far gone at least we're safe and didn't get too stupid." Harry replied being more mature about it than Hermione expected to her relief. Deep down she knew she would be the one that did the seducing.
"Well there are some things we can do without going all the way," She said with a sly smile.
"Ahh someone's been reading the Kama Sutra I suspect." Harry said with an evil smile as if he had caught her.
"That's only one of several, love but I want to take it slow alright?" She asked softly.
Harry quickly agreed and hugged her; "I agree love, again you set the pace and I'll follow. It will be hard, pun intended, but we can manage. I'll love you when you say no as much as I do now so don't hesitate to say no when we reach a boundary."
"My sweet man how could I not love you. You always put me first," She purred.
"That's because you are number one and it's where you belong. You are my anchor, and what makes my life worth living, without you, I'm just a drifting shell of what passes for a human." Harry said tenderly but honestly and she knew it.
"Harry James Potter if you keep saying things like that I'm going to throw you down and snog your lights out." She purred again and kissed him.
"Ok I have a lot more I can say, let's see…hmmmm!"
"Oi I thought you two were going to Dan and Emma's." They heard Dora and parted slightly.
"Dora do you have built in radar or something. We leave you and Remus alone you could return the favor." Harry almost cursed her.
"I might if Hermione wasn't about to be 15 and hormones weren't buzzing about like bees producing honey. You two keep that up and you'll be producing a little honey of your own." She replied with a grin and added a giggle.
"Hermione can I kill her just a little," Harry asked politely.
"No dear, it's like being pregnant you are or you aren't, you kill someone or you don't. You can't kill them just a little," Hermione said and giggled.
"Ok how about I make her wish she was dead is that all right?" Harry said firmly giving Dora a foul look that would melt ice.
"Well that could be done but I don't think we should," Hermione said softly.
"Ok, how about I shrink Remus bits to about a half inch long and an eighth inch in diameter." Harry said with an evil smile.
"But, love Remus isn't bothering us."
"True but Dora is shagging Remus so it gets her too." Harry said looking at Dora.
"Harry"
"Go away Dora can't you see we're thinking here," Harry said with no sound of joking.
"But Harry, I get the message loud and clear," Dora was almost begging now.
"Too late the mood is broken," Harry said honestly.
"But, it will come back," Dora stated hoping to save Remus.
"Maybe but Gunny says if you miss an opportunity you can never get that one back." Harry said with all honesty.
Hermione's cell phone rang and they left for the Grangers as Dora wiped her brow. She wondered how Harry knew about her and Remus.
May and June flowed into the summer and a vacation in Singapore, New Zealand, and Australia. The Blacks or Potters had manors in each of the places. Even though the food was great, the men thought three days in Singapore was more than enough. The women thought otherwise as there were more shopping malls than time to visit them. They found New Zealand and Cairns, Australia a bit cool for their taste. So they left for Black Island in the Bermuda triangle, and relaxed there a week. From there they went to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France not far from Monaco. Harry had a large villa there not far from a public beach where he was introduced to topless bathing. When he was asked by Gunny why he kept his eyes on Hermione, Harry replied, "Gunny I may be dumb but I'm not stupid."
"Good answer lad. Keep the little misses happy and live a smother and happier life." Gunny said passing on sound advice that many men disregarded and paid the price later.
"Gunny has anyone figured out if they are born knowing the look, the hands on hips with one hip slung to the side, and the saying of a man's first, middle, and last names when they're pissed at us. Of course there's the shaking of the index finger near our nose to keep our attention as well. The look of disgust or that says you're a man and don't have a clue." Harry asked hoping for an answer.
"The guys with sisters say it starts when they first learn to stand on their own. Anne says she has to do it because my attention span is so short. I think that's funny since I can keep track of a target for hours but there are many things, a man is better off not saying. The couch gets cold and lonely no matter how warm it is. That's another thing they do banish us to the couch. If they want to sleep alone, why don't they sleep on the couch? Don't ever ask that either Harry." Gunny paused while thinking.
"As a young Staff Sergeant I worked with this salty old Chief Petty Officer he came to work one morning with his head all bandaged up. When I asked what happened he said, "Well the wife was on a rant and I tuned her out as usual and nodded like a good boy should then continued what I was doing. Powers me boyo that was a big mistake, she smacked me in the head and told me to pay attention you don't put that much salt in a cake mix. He didn't get cake that night, but a trip to the hospital and then the couch. I figured the moral was either listen to the wife or continue what I'm doing out of her sight." Gunny said with a smile.
Harry thought that was good advice. They did the tourist thing and went to Monaco and the Monte Carlo Casino was huge. Sirius said we would have to check our wands on entry so Hermione and Harry didn't enter it. One of the guards started to say something when Gunny told him who Harry was. The guard tipped his hat, and said have a nice day. Harry, Hermione, Gunny, and Anne sat at an outdoor café when the others joined them. The team was not impressed saying there were better casinos in Las Vegas and the food prices were better also.
"Harry before you say let's go, you have to be 21 to enter the gambling area of a casino in Nevada. You could maybe get by with a glamour charm, and a mild mundane repelling ward but it isn't worth it. It's funny you can get married at 16 or 17 with one parent present but you can't play the slot machines in the wedding chapel lobby. At 18 you don't need anyone's permission just a valid ID to marry but still can't enter a casino." Mitch told Harry shaking his head at the stupid laws.
"Hell Mitch, I don't want to gamble, just look around." Harry said honestly.
"Jackpot, that's what the majority say when they get caught. And your chances of getting caught are around 249 of 250 if I remember correctly. It's a $500 fine split between the county, city, and casino. Of course that's after your finger printed, get a mug shot, enter into the police data base, maybe strip searched, and then get arraigned in court before you pay your fine. About the only way you get much of a look is if you have to cross the casino to go to a restaurant. They have a marked path on the floor. But you don't get to see much from it." Mitch told him with a smile that said he had been there and done that.
"Mitch is this experience talking?" Harry asked politely.
"No Harry, I grew up in that fucking dump. Las Vegas is all glitz, glitter, and mostly assholes that make good money, and then blow it trying to hit the big one. Gambling is a sickness like the flu except the flu is easier to get over. The chance of hitting a large jackpot is about 12 million to one. That is a bit better odds than a lottery but not much. There are people that make a good living at gambling mostly poker. But its one hell of a life and reading cards and people isn't easy to learn." Mitch said honestly.
"Gunny is Mitch always this dedicated to teaching the sin of gambling?" Harry asked to see what Mitch would say.
"No he likes a poker game like most of us but don't like weak people who get hooked on it or anything else." Gunny replied.
They talked a bit more then went back to the villa and lay around the pool. They returned to the United Kingdom after three weeks. The Grangers and Tonks went home and the others went to Hogwarts. After a small birthday party for Harry, they made plans for the upcoming tournament. Dora and Gunny hired 12 more former Marines that left the service including a Gunnery Sergeant and a First Sergeant. Most were Corporals or Sergeants. Of the dozen men, half were married, and four had masteries including a healer. The other two also just needed to complete their thesis. The good thing was the former Marines all knew each other and their wives all got along as well.
In late August, the Goblet arrived. It took Harry about an hour to charm it so two names from Durmstrang would come out. On 21 August, the Daily Prophet announced Harry and Hermione's OWL and NEWT scores as well as their four Masteries each. Amy made sure Her Majesty as well as the two young ones knew they were now considered adults.
Hogwarts Owners Rip OWL and NEWT Exams
By Michael Jason, Editor
The International Conference of Wizards Department of Education announced the OWL and NEWT test results of Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin and Lady Granger-Hufflepuff. Lady Granger-Hufflepuff received 27 OWLs and 31 NEWTs. Her fiancé Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin received 24 OWLs and 26 NEWTs. These are the highest number of OWL and NEWTs ever received by two individuals.
In addition, they received four Masteries each. Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin said Hogwarts will once again become the best school of magic in the world. The young Lord just turned 14, and his fiancé will be 15 next month. Their NEWTs make them adults by law and magic. In the future, will these two become the leaders we need to go forward? They are already blending mundane technology with magic. The students now may watch mundane movies for learning about another culture or entertainment. In classes where wands are used a projection of the wand movement and the sounding of the incantation is displayed so the student can practice both several times before trying a spell.
All classes are now taught to ICW testing levels. Meanwhile in our Department of Education Madam Marchbanks is trying to get our own OWLs and NEWTs back up to standard. When asked what happened she replied sharply "Dumbledore and the likes of Malfoy happened. They had the standards dumbed down so the little pureblood princes and princesses didn't have to study or work their little selves too hard. The Hogwarts owners just showed the world that blood doesn't matter it is how you practice and perform magic that's important."
I am a pure blood and proud of it, but that doesn't make me better than a first generation witch or wizard. All it means is that we come from different backgrounds and can learn from each other.
See full test results on page 3
Read the Mastery thesis in the next four editions of your Daily Prophet.
"Mum did you read this about Harry and Hermione?" Ron asked Molly.
"No Ron I haven't read the paper this morning what does it say?" she asked in return.
"They took their OWLs in January and NEWTs in June between them they got 51 OWLs and 57 NEWTs and they each have four Masteries. I really wish I could go back there but I messed up too bad. The school in London is alright but it just isn't Hogwarts." Ron said without his former anger.
"Ron it wouldn't be same since Harry and Hermione won't be attending classes, they may even teach a few. Did you hear what the twins told your father?" Molly asked her son.
"No Mum I was finishing up my history paper." Ron replied.
"Fred and George have a contract with the Ministry to provide some equipment for the Aurors. Minister Bones gave them an exemption to do magic out of school." Molly said proudly.
"Mum you know we could do magic under your supervision anyway," He replied.
"Yes, but I don't have the time to watch them all day, and I don't like your fathers shed. He stays out of my kitchen except to eat or sit at the table. And I stay out of his shed, which makes both of us happy." She said honestly.
"Mum, do you and Dad approve of Ginny going with Neville?" he asked.
"Normally at her age I wouldn't but with the security they have at Hogwarts about all they can do is hold hands and maybe kiss good night in their common room. They both could do a lot worse than each other, Frank and Alice approve of Ginny and we approve of Neville." She replied neutrally.
"Gin says his grades shot up after his core was unbound and he got his memory straightened out. He sure struggled the first two years. Hogwarts rumor says Harry believes Dumbledore was setting him and Neville up to die when Moldyshorts came back. I wonder what Dumbledore would say about how they handled Moldyshorts." Ron said, remembering that under different circumstances he may have been there to see it.
"Don't tell the others this but Arthur heard Kingsley and Gawain talking about Harry peeing on Moldyshorts when Minister Bones arrived, then he offered all the ladies a chance to do the same saying the men would leave the room. Hermione and Tonks were all for it, but Minister Bones said no they didn't have time to do it right then, or something like that. The rumor is that Harry was the last of his men to relieve himself that way while Hermione and Dora waited in another room. Then they used some products the twins developed to burn the old manor to the ground." Molly said her voice filled with pride in the twins.
"Cool, the twins played a part in the downfall of Moldyshorts. They sure don't talk about a joke shop anymore." Ron said with a half sigh.
"No, they plan on providing Aurors with devices to help them take down dark wizards. George said its less seasonal and more money to be made. But their grades are so much better than before so your Dad and I are happy for them." Molly said and started washing the dishes.
On 27 August 1994 the students began arriving at Hogwarts. After mingling in the enlarged common room Harry and Hermione led the students and parents to the Great Hall. Harry once again stood at the podium to give his talk.
"Students and parents welcome to Hogwarts, for those who do not know me I am Lord Harry Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin. On my left is my fiancée Lady Hermione Granger-Hufflepuff. Together we own Hogwarts but Headmistress Sprout runs the school while Hermione and I do research, on how to improve the school. For returning students our security force or the M Team as we call it has increased by twelve good men. While Moldyshorts is dead, others out there may be a danger. Hermione and I take the safety of our students very seriously. And dark wizards rise and fall once or more a century on average." Harry said then paused a bit.
"In addition, this year Hogwarts will host the Tri-Wizard tournament with Beauxbatons, Durmstrang, and Hogwarts competing. The two guest schools are scheduled to arrive on 28 October. The Halloween ball will be held on 29 October. This ball is open to fourth years and above, although a fourth year may invite a third year with permission of her or his parents. So you young men if you're asking a third year, do it early so she can get her parents written permission to her Head of House. The same thing applies to young witches who ask a third year wizard. A young couple if one is born on 31 August and the other on 1 September may only be hours apart in life but in school they're a year apart. There will also be a Christmas ball on 17 December with the same rules applying. Students having permission to attend the Halloween ball will have permission to attend the Yule ball unless a parent rescinds the permission." Harry said pausing again while sipping from a glass of water.
"Now to the Quidditch fans, the only effect this tournament will have is if the Hogwarts champion plays Quidditch. He or she may choose not to play Quidditch but may do both if he or she wishes. A word of warning there will be duels in this tournament where the only thing disallowed is the unforgivables. I am still trying to limit it to non-harmful spells. The problem is almost every spell can be used in a harmful way. As I told the French and Bulgarians there will be no harmful creatures at Hogwarts. Also the lake is off limits for use in the completion. My last announcement affects you parents. Your students may purchase your tickets at half price and the students are free to watch the tasks. Now my lovely fiancé is indicating that I've been too long winded and it's her turn." Harry said and sat down while the men laughed.
"Thank you Harry it's about time you hushed. In this year's enrollment packets, you received a permission slip for your students to go on several outings to the mundane world. Apparently, the packet was not clear in that this costs nothing and is part of the normal tuition. Each student that goes will receive ₤50 to spend and make change in a mundane store or restaurant. One outing is to a movie theater where they will receive a small stipend to purchase refreshments. The theater ticket will be paid by the school staff." She paused to let that sink in,
"Also for second year students, you need permission to visit Hogsmeade so a new permission slip is required. For third year and above you prior slip is already on file, unless your parents wish us to remove your permission. Students with a class average of A will be able to go once each month for those with Es or above you may go twice per month. Good grades deserve a reward and this is our way of doing that. Obviously if you're in detention on a Hogsmeade weekend, you'll get to watch your friends go, while you stay behind. Thank you all for coming, the sorting and beginning feast will start at 17:00 so please be in your seats by 16:50." Hermione sat next to Harry.
The staff and security team showed the first years how to use their maps. Then they visited the classrooms and the COMC area. A parent asked, if there were still Acromantulas in the Forrest, and were told they were gone. He asked where they had gone, and was told they were gone for good. Even though he would have liked to hear the story, he decided maybe it was best done at another time. The colony had fallen to testing the twins napalm and phosphorus grenades. The theory was if you could take out an Acromantula, you could take out several Inferi.
That evening Harry asked Hermione to both balls.
"Harry you didn't have to ask, you know I'll go with you," She said with a frown.
"So you want me to take you for granted?" Harry asked not masking his disappointment in her words.
"What? No." She replied instantly.
"Well that why I asked. I figured not to ask would be an insult and me taking you for granted." He said softly.
"Harry I appreciate that more than I can tell you, I spoke before thinking." She replied kissing his nose.
"This isn't good Hermione you're supposed to rub off on me not the other way around," Harry said with a grin.
Harry received a long and deep kiss for his thoughtfulness. He returned as good as he got.
The start of term went well, Harry and Hermione spent some evenings in each of the common rooms getting to know the students and asking questions on what could be improved. They were a bit surprised when asked why more things weren't taught about elves and Goblins since they saw and talked to them at school and the bank.
"What would you say if we said next year there would be goblins, elves, and centaurs, coming to Hogwarts. The werewolves will come early to have themselves cured of the disease. Vampires were also invited but declined mostly because our classes are during the daytime, when they normally sleep. However, they are working with us to find a cure for the virus that causes their condition." Harry asked the group in the Gryffindor common room.
"I thought the non humans couldn't use a wand how will that work in class sir," A first year name Carl asked.
"Call me Harry please all of you. To answer your question the centaur asked only to attend the non-wand courses. The Goblins and elves use wandless magic and are more interested in the result than the incantation. With enough practice, you each can do wandless magic. In fact, you already have, only it was called accidental magic. Was it really an accident or did you want it to happen and your magic did what you asked of it." Harry paused as if thinking,
"Most often, what's called accidental magic happens if you're angry or want something a whole lot. When I was around six months old, my favorite toy was a stuffed dog. I used to call the dog to me something like the Accio charm. Then I did it when Paddy was in the laundry and I was in my crib upstairs. Mum followed the dog from the laundry to my bedroom, that night Dad bound my magic worried I might destroy the house. Now after lots and lots of practice I can wandless summon small things. The more you do magic the stronger it get, the more that you're in good physical shape the stronger your magic is and the more reserves you have. That's why the M Team and me workout almost every day. We run, do pushups, sit ups, and lift weights. A healthy body means a healthy mind, and more and stronger magic," Harry told the shocked Gryffindors.
The Tri-Wizard Tournament Begins
Beauxbatons and Durmstrang arrived just after 15:00 on 28 October. Harry, Hermione, and Pomona met the Headmasters and showed the students and staffs into the expanded Great Hall. Harry and Hermione went to the founders table where Harry held Hermione's chair for her then kept standing.
"Hogwarts students and staff please make welcome the students and staffs of Beauxbatons Academy of Magic and Durmstrang Institute. Before we enjoy dinner, I would like to introduce my fiancé Lady Hermione Granger-Hufflepuff-Galahad part owner of this fine school. I am Lord Harry Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin the other owner. Now please enjoy the food our elves have prepared. At your table, you will find French, Bulgarian, and English cuisine. Oh one thing there are two part Veela in this hall. If I feel you turn up your aura, you will find yourself in the lake to cool off. Lady Hogwarts do I speak truth."
"Yes My Lord if I feel them there will be no hesitation you need say nothing My Lord it will be done."
"Thank you My Lady, now please enjoy your meal."
Harry watched as the two French witches with silver blonde hair looked at each other and shook their heads. Harry sighed this was something he just didn't need. A bunch of horny boys walking into walls and wanting to fight anyone that got close to one of those girls. After dinner and desert, Harry stood again.
"Once again visiting students, and staff welcome. Now for a briefing on Hogwarts wards, the wards are in place for your safety. They do several things. First they kill Death Eaters on contact. Second, they destroy wands that cast a dark curse. Third, they do not allow magic except in authorized places indicated on the maps you were provided. Fourth, they extend beyond the castle and school grounds out past Hogsmeade and other areas about 80 square miles. Fifth, commit certain infractions and they send the offender one fourth mile into the English Channel. The channel is cold this time of year. The wards don't care if you can swim or not, that is your problem not ours. All of this was in the packets we sent to both schools." Harry sipped his tea while watching the reactions.
"As additional security, we have 36 men and women we call the M Team. These people are all former U.S. Marines and all have seen combat. Twenty-five of these men and five others from this school defeated the wizard we call Moldyshorts but probably called him you-know-who or Voldemort. It took us less than two minutes to rid the world of his snake faced ass. He's gone and can't come back. The M Team patrols the halls and other areas they take no prisoners but do collect wands from the dead they kill. This is a school and not a playground, I didn't want this tournament here, but got suckered into it. I said then and I'll say again, I will do my best to insure the safety of each student in this school. Students first, staff second, and the facilities last, are our priorities for providing protection. For us to do that, requires you to follow our rules. Headmistress," Harry said and sat down again.
Pomona briefed the students and guest on who could enter and how it would be done. She also told them the tasks and the schedule and suggested they obtain their families tickets early to be sure to get a seat. After the meeting Harry and Hermione asked Pomona and Madam Maxime for a moment of their time.
"Madam Maxime it is in your Veelas best interest for you to warn them they are on very thin ice already. Hogwarts told me who was sending out the allure as soon as I asked her. I could care less that the bint's father is the French Minister of Magic. This is my Earldom and as such I'm the King and my Queen is Hermione. Hogwarts will throw her in the lake the next time she pulls it and in the channel if she does it again. Then she cannot cross the wards to my Earldom again. I sound hard but I want no trouble in this school," Harry said in English then French surprising Maxime.
"Thank you Lord Potter-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw-Slytherin I'll warn them both. And I'll send them home if they end up in your lake." She stated clearly.
"Madam, call me either Harry or Lord Gryffindor please," He said with a smile.
"Thank you Harry."
In the Beauxbatons carriage, Fleur was raging. Madame Maxime stood outside listening until she had heard enough.
"Miss Delacour go pack your bags and prepare to leave this carriage and Beauxbatons. I will notify your father you have been expelled for conduct unbecoming a Beauxbatons student," Maxime said fiercely.
"But Madame Maxime he insulted us. I will not tolerate that nor should I be expected to," Fleur raged.
"In a word, bullshit Fleur, even I detected your aura crank up. You have no idea who you are messing with or what that young man is. Are you aware that a little over a year ago he killed a 72 foot basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets here at Hogwarts? He then told his fiancé who was petrified he did it because it hurt her. Then Lucius Malfoy tried to kill him and he used an Expelliarmus and threw Malfoy into a wall 20 feet away breaking most of the bones in the man's body. Later he took Dumbledore's wand from him then the Death Eater Severus Snape drew his wand against Lord Potter and found himself thrown 30 feet losing his wand arm with a Reducto and losing his wand."
"Later that evening he put the young Malfoy in the hospital wing with a broken pelvis and crushed bits. A short time later six seventh year students challenged him to a duel and he beat them all at once. I must admit he used 8 spells the last two of which were Expelliarmus and Accio. No Fleur, you have no idea the harm you caused or who that young man is. But he does own this school and is Lord of the three surrounding Earldoms. He is the King here, his fiancé owns the other part of the school, and the other surrounding Earldom, and she is his Queen. I really think it is best for you and France if you leave. I will not expel you but take the floo and return to the school you have fifteen minutes." Maxime stated ending that conversation.
"Now to you Marie DeGaulle your allure and attitude did not go unnoticed either. You may also pack your bags and return to Beauxbatons. You both signed the contract saying that you read and understood the rules. Yet within the first twenty minutes you are breaking the rules. Your father will also be notified of this and your attitude and performance in class has been less than satisfactory if they have not improved by Christmas you will find yourself expelled, am I clear on those points?" Maxime asked with fire in her eyes.
"Yes Madam."
"Very well go now."
In the Gryffindor suite another discussion was going on.
"Harry did we go too far with the Veela?" Hermione asked softly knowing he was still pissed.
"What? I didn't throw them out and should have Hermione. Do you really want a bunch of horny boys dueling each other for their affections? Can you imagine some first year boy getting hurt by a seventh year because those two think it's funny? These are not young Veela, which are still struggling to control themselves and their allure. These young women have to be 17 by tomorrow to be here." Harry reminded her not as soft as she asked but not harsh either.
"You're right and we did do what was necessary to protect the students, which is what was promised. I just wish it could have been handled differently," Hermione said honestly. Harry like the fact she said what was on her mind and he did the same.
"What they did was a public display not private. My response was public also because I needed them and our students to know their actions would not be tolerated. If I were Madame Maxime, they would be on their way home. She recognized the allure and the danger. The real question is what do we do if they ask to return? Nothing really happened so it will be hard to say no," Harry said hoping the issue would not come up.
"Well Lady Hogwarts monitors all students so we will know if they act up again. But we also know from experience if she is concentrating on a potential disaster, she may miss something else. I think it should be left up to Beauxbatons and we monitor those two. But if either of them makes a move on my man, they are going down hard, fast, and hurting." Hermione said moving into her protective mode.
"Don't I even get to laugh at them first love. I have the feeling me and a Mr. Krum will have a discussion about as certain Lady Hermione." Harry said gently kissing her forehead.
'You're going to abuse him in the dueling ring aren't you?" She replied with a giggle.
"Abuse and embarrass is more like it." Harry said with an evil smile.
"His sneer is almost up to Snivelly's standard but not quite," She said then kissed him with passion.
They went to bed tomorrow would be a long day with the ball and the normal problems. The next morning they noticed the Veela were gone. Harry decided to make one more effort to get through to his guests.
"Lady Hogwarts."
"Yes Lord Gryffindor how may I serve."
"Please tell our guests what you do for our school."
"My first priority is the protection of the Lord Gryffindor and Lady Hufflepuff. The second is the protection of students and staff. I do not take these tasks lightly my Lord Gryffindor."
"How many have you banished to the English Channel?"
"Eighteen my Lord."
"Of those how many could swim?"
"I have no idea nor do I care."
"What happened to them?"
"I have no idea and it is not my concern should it be my Lord?"
"No my Lady it should not. I do not care and you should not either. If necessary would you kill to complete your tasks?"
"Yes my Lord I have in the past and most probably will in the future as well."
"Thank you my Lady you do a great job and are much appreciated by me and Lady Hufflepuff."
"Thank you my Lord it is my pleasure to serve."
"As I hope you as our guests can see Hogwarts is a sedient being. What she did not say, because I did not ask, is that we constantly communicate the three of us Lady Hogwarts, Hermione, and me. Do I speak true my Lady?"
"Yes Lord Gryffindor you speak true for it is your way. You are much like Godric was in his prime, but you have traits of Rowena and Salazar as well. For you are a true warrior my lord, and you have gathered other warriors around you much as Godric did also. Your chosen is a warrior as well much like Rowena was for Godric."
"Thank you for your kind words Lady Hogwarts."
"You are welcome Lord Gryffindor."
Harry held his right hand up and the Sword of Gryffindor appeared in it.
"This sword was crafted by Goblins in 952 for Lord Godric Gryffindor. Only a true heir can call it in time of need, but only the Earl of Hogsmeade can call it anytime. This sword represents the fact that in this Earldom that I, and I alone, am the final authority. I am judge, jury, and executioner. In a word, I am King. This fact is recognized by Her Majesty Elizabeth II, Queen of the Commonwealth of Nations."
The magic flared from Harry through the sword to the ceiling then surrounded the great hall as the ceiling flashed lightening the castle seemed to rumble as the magic retreated through the sword and back to Harry.
"Great grandson of my great grandson you have released me from my prison for that I thank you. Place this ring on your left index finger my heir and take your rightful place among the Knights of Arthur for you have earned that right. We shall meet soon grandson for I am Myrddin Ambrosius Emrys known by many as Merlin. My days in stasis are over thanks to you young Harry."
The entire Great Hall heard the ring fall next to Harry's plate. The sword disappeared and Harry placed the ring on his left index finger and the magic flared as Harry seemed in great pain but no one could move. Finally the magic receded and Harry shook his head and said, "Damn that hurt," then he passed out. Gunny, Sirius, Remus, and Dora were at his side instantly, Dobby appeared in his version of combat fatigues, and popped Harry to his bed while the others rushed with Hermione to his side.
Fred stood and said, "Headmistress it seems things are back to normal for our Harry. We were hoping for another quiet year Ma'am."
"You of all people know that's just not possible in the life of Harry Potter. Lady Hogwarts is Lord Gryffindor all right?" Pomona asked,
"Yes Headmistress he received another gift from Merlin, it was just a bit overwhelming. Now I have something to say to an unnamed guest. Keep your thoughts of a certain Lady to yourself, or you will be the first one I kill this term. You know who you are, and now you know I know. The difference is I will not hesitate nor will her man. This tournament was a foul idea from a foul old man. If given the word I would end this tournament without it getting started. Rest assured I am not the only one watching, nor am I the only one who wants your head. You have been warned, listen to the warning, or die."
Victor Krum somehow kept from pissing his pants he now had two goals, getting his NEWTs and getting home alive. After all, there were a lot of girls that liked being associated with a professional seeker. This Lord Gryffindor was not one to mess with and his men kept looking at him as if they were deciding how to kill him slowly. No this Lady Homoninny is best left alone. The Veela were not at breakfast, and had most likely been sent at home in disgrace. Maybe Victor should not enter the tournament at all.
In Gryffindor suite they had heard Lady Hogwarts speak, the whole school had heard it. Hermione had her arms wrapped around Harry when her parents entered the room. Sirius rushed over to them, and led them back to the common room and explained what had happened.
"Merlin is freed and declared Harry his heir is that right?" Dan asked in awe.
"Yes Dan, pretty much spot on," Sirius replied then sipped his firewhiskey.
"What does it mean Sirius?" Dan wanted more information, but the others did also.
"Dan we don't have a clue. Hogwarts says he was hit with too… well a lot of magic all at once. Harry was pissed at the way Victor Krum was eyeing Hermione. He pulled the sword of Gryffindor out of the air and pretty much said he was the King of this Earldom then his magic went wild and Hogwarts shook, and this voice said Harry had earned a seat at Arthur's round table and told him to put the ring on his left index finger. The ring fell to the table. Harry put it on, and the magic went wild again. Harry came to and said, 'damn that hurt', and then he passed out again. Dobby popped in then popped Harry here. We followed with Hermione, and here we are." Sirius said as honestly as he could.
"That young man can't seem to catch a break," Dan stated the obvious that the others were thinking.
"Most probably he just became one hell of a lot more powerful. While you would think that was a good thing but some, in fact many will fear him because of his power. Then the rumors will start that he's the next dark lord because the sheep fear what they don't understand," Sirius said our loud his mind wandering.
"Sirius, how can Merlin be back?" Emma asked bring Sirius back.
"The story goes that Morgana Le Fey imprisoned or trapped Merlin, but didn't kill him and he could be rescued. With magic who really knows what is possible, especially with the old ones and ancient long lost magic. He did say he was in stasis," Sirius said in reply telling the others what he knew.
"Sirius I need a frigging drink." Dan stated.
"Make it two Sirius." Emma added.
Sirius poured Dan and Emma a brandy and himself a glass of wine. They went back in the bedroom and Hermione had lain down next to Harry, spooned against his back, with her arm around his stomach.
"If that wasn't my daughter I may think it was cute," Dan said but without malice in his voice.
"Hush Dan look at what's happening there," Emma said.
Harry and Hermione seemed covered in a cocoon of magic glowing gold.
"Dobby"
"Yes master Sirius."
"Please get Madam Pomfrey and the Headmistress in here as soon as possible."
Dobby popped away and back with a protesting Madam Pomfrey. He popped away and back with a protesting Headmistress.
"Sirius Black what the hell is going on?" Pomona asked not hiding her irritation.
"One of you please tell us what we're seeing," Sirius replied not knowing what to expect.
"I would say we're seeing magic performing a marriage," Poppy stated and put her hand to her mouth.
"What?!" several shouted at once.
"I think Poppy is right at least that is what it looks like when a marriage bond occurs," Pomona said.
"They're too young, this needs to be stopped," Dan said reaching for Hermione.
"Mr. Granger, under any other circumstances I'd tell you to feel free to try but it would most probably get you killed or hurt bad. I have never felt magic like this before, and a marriage bond rarely is more than a flash of a few seconds. Dobby."
"Yes Master Headmistress."
"Can you tell us what is happening to them?" Pomona asked gently.
"No Headmistress Dobby have never seen such."
"Lady Hogwarts."
"They're all right Headmistress they're receiving gifts from the old ones. Minister Bones and Mr. Delacour are at the gate but I told them Harry is indisposed and reminded them where they are."
"Thank you My Lady."
"Who are the old ones?" Emma asked.
There were two flashes of fire and Fawkes appeared with a golden Phoenix no one had seen before.
"I believe that is two of them it is said there were twelve immortals. The only immortals we know of are Phoenix. A golden Phoenix is said to be the anointed leader of the old ones and Merlin's familiar," Pomona answered.
"Poppy are my eyes deceiving me or are they growing?" Emma asked.
"Your eyes are fine Emma but we need to leave this room. It appears they're going though maturation and this room including us could end up in shambles." Poppy said and they took her suggestion.
They didn't have a choice as the magic expanded and forced them out of the room and sealed the door. Dora and Gunny wanted to know what the hell was going on.
"If I didn't know better I'd say Hogwarts was preparing for war. The outer wards are locked down tight, and no one can get in or out. The team is in place and ready for battle but there is no one near the wards," Dora added.
"We think among other things Harry and Hermione are maturing and have bonded. I'm sure you heard what Lady Hogwarts said," Poppy stated.
"Poppy he just turned 14 and she's only 15, it's too early for them to mature." Dora said looking at the healer as if she were mad.
"Yes for others but that's Harry Potter in that room, since when do normal rules apply to him?" Poppy asked leaving the others opening and closing their mouths like carp out of water.