Chapter 18: Eighteen: Fortunes and Disasters
The first weekend in Hogsmeade had finally arrived. Harry had been receiving daily massages in the Hospital wing for the last two weeks, then going to lessons during the day. He was pulling on his trousers rather gingerly when someone cleared their throat behind him. Harry did up the jeans then turned to find Professor McGonagall standing on the other side of his bed.
"How are you, Harry?" She asked, her usual stern look softening.
"I am fine," Harry gave his usual general answer.
"Clearly. Now I wanted to discuss something with you before you went into Hogsmeade," the Deputy Headmistress gestured for Harry to sit, "now as you are fully aware, we never caught who attacked you, but we obviously suspect someone in Gryffindor."
"That is why you have kept me in the Hospital Wing, not because I was still ill," Harry made the connection, his eyes narrowing at his Head of House.
"You are right, but we still felt there was a real danger to you," McGonagall did appear to be upset at deceiving him.
"So, what is your proposal?"
"I would like you to be placed in the Gryffindor married quarters," the deputy replied.
"Married quarters?"
"Up until a hundred years ago, you could get married from the age of thirteen so the school felt married couples should live together," McGonagall explained, "There has not been a married couple in 150 years, but I have taken the liberty of sprucing it up a bit to more modern times."
"What are you going to tell the school population? They will think I have been given preferential treatment," Harry suggested.
"We could tell them it is to keep you safe after the attempt on your life," McGonagall responded, which made sense to Harry.
"Alright, we can get Dobby to move my stuff after dinner tonight."
"You are leaving Gryffindor tower?" Hermione asked, pushing through the doors into the Hospital Ward.
"Mister Black is just moving from the dorms into the married quarters," McGonagall explained.
"But he is not married," Hermione flushed.
"No, but this might protect Harry from further attempts on his life." Hermione did look a little ashamed of herself.
"Are you ready to go?" Hermione asked, turning to her boyfriend. He kissed her lightly on the temple and picked up the standard walking stick Andromeda created for him.
"Will you be OK going down to Hogsmeade?" McGonagall looked him over, concerned.
"Yes, Ma'am, we are meeting Sirius, so I think I should be fine,"
"Good, then have a good day, Mr Black, Miss Granger," the Deputy Headmistress smiled at the pair and left them alone.
"How are you feeling today?" Hermione asked. He looked at his girlfriend, ready to respond with his usual answer but, seeing her frown, decided against it. Harry picked up his coat and hat, shrugging them on. He ground his teeth as Hermione helped him with the coat. He hated not doing things for himself.
"It aches a little, but I will take it easy walking down to the coaches. Did Sirius say he had a surprise for us?" Harry returned truthfully, getting a giggle from Hermione. She slipped her hand into his as they bantered back and forth, taking a slow walk down to the Main Hall where their least favourite teacher, Snape, was glaring at everyone ticking off their names from a piece of parchment.
"Do behave in Hogsmeade, watch you do not run into any problems," Snape warned them as they passed him. The pair shared a look with each other; was the potions master warning them of a possible attack or just being his usual sinister self? Harry stopped once again as they reached the Thestrals pulling the carriages. They were completely fleshless, their black coats clinging to their skeletons, of which every bone was visible. Their heads were dragonish, and their pupil-less eyes white and staring. Wings sprouted from each wither ̶ vast, black leathery wings that looked as they ought to belong to giant bats.
"What do Thestrals look like?" Hermione asked. Harry went on to describe them as she helped him into the carriage. He barely had any strength in his injured thigh. Once they settled in the carriage, Harry looked at the blossoming young woman in front of him.
"Have you thought any more about what I asked you, private tutoring?" Hermione asked, studying the boy in front of her. He had his leg propped up on the chair on her side of the carriage.
"Look, it is Slytherin versus Gryffindor next weekend. Can I let you know after the match once I know how my leg feels?" Harry returned.
"How do you feel about going up against Draco now that he is your best friend?" Hermione asked as Harry began making sputtering noises.
"He is not my best friend!" Harry denied as Hermione grinned at him.
"Alright, but he is your friend and do not deny it. Draco has even gotten quite friendly with Neville," Hermione fired back.
"I do not think it will be too bad. We both play to win," Harry answered thoughtfully, then looked down at his leg. "When do you think I might get the strength back in my leg?"
"Well, the healer says it will never return to full strength, but you should get at least 85% mobility if you keep up the massages. Andromeda has also recommended a bath every night," Hermione responded.
"Do I get your help in the bath at night?" Harry winked at her, stealing a kiss as she blushed prettily.
"What happened to the shy Harry? The innocent one," Hermione harrumphed but with a smile on her face.
"Living with Sirius and spending time with your brother," Harry replied with a shrug.
"Do not bring my brother into this," Hermione laughed.
"Have you seen him? He is a right little ladies-man. Whenever I see him, he has the girls all hanging around him," Harry laughed, then sobered, "how is he?"
"Scared, he was so upset after you were attacked, but has been a little quiet lately," she told him.
"I intend to spend some time with him the next week, maybe helping with his homework." Hermione stared at the boy with an incredulous look.
"You? Homework?"
"Hey, my schoolwork has been up to scratch since the summer," Harry pulled Hermione to him, so she snuggled into his body.
"Well, you have been in the Hospital Ward half that time, with no distractions."
"How has Ron been?" The pair had not spoken about Ron since before school started.
"Like a jealous idiot, the boy has been spouting all sorts of nonsense about you," she told him, careful not to say anything he had been doing.
"Honestly, Mi, I feel like he is not a friend any longer. After what he did in fourth year and the way he reacted to the broomstick in third year," Harry went over his reasoning as Hermione shot up, narrowing her eyes at him.
"What did you call me?"
"Mi!" Harry squeaked as his girlfriend turned into a demon, "I thought I would try it out."
"Well, think again, buddy, only Cepheus ever gets away with calling me that, and that is not that often," she said sternly.
"Yes, Ma'am, besides," Harry grinned, "Hermione is such a beautiful name,"
"Good, thank you," Hermione melted, giving him a kiss on his nose. The thestral-drawn carriages came to a halt outside the village of Hogsmeade. Once again, Hermione helped Harry out of the carriage. They greeted several friends from different houses as they walked to the Three Broomsticks with Harry leaning on his cane. They entered the bustling Inn, which seemed busier than usual. Given that it was a Hogsmeade weekend, Hermione realised why it was so busy. They managed to make their way to the front.
"Hello, Rosemerta,"
"Oh, hello, you two, are you looking for the old dog?" the barmaid laughed.
"Yep, where is he?"
"Ol' high and mighty reserved a room for you to use," Rosemerta explained, leading them down a back passage. She opened the door for the pair allowing them to see Sirius already inside with Amelia Bones. Hermione grinned at Harry, but the boy missed it as he hugged his father.
"How are you? How is the leg?" Sirius asked, looking his son over. Harry answered as he took a seat opposite Madam Bones.
"Not too bad, a little sore and stiff," Harry responded. Hermione was glad he answered truthfully.
"Unfortunately, the investigation has hit a dead-end, we think someone was Imperiused to put the snake in your dorm, but we have not found the wand that did the Imperius curse," Bones admitted though Hermione noticed a slight flicker of her eyes. There was something the woman was not saying, but if it did not harm them Hermione would let it go.
"Did you just come to update us on the investigation?" Hermione asked innocently. Harry looked at his girlfriend, knowing she was never that innocent or sweet.
"Actually, no, we have got an announcement," Sirius replied, taking Amelia's hand. She flushed red but gave him a sweet smile.
"You are dating!" Hermione squealed so un-Hermione like it threw Harry.
"You were right; she is smart," Amelia commented.
"Probably clocked us as soon as she entered," Sirius told the woman proudly like Hermione was his daughter. Though with her dating Harry, she practically was family.
"Hermione is the smartest and most beautiful witch I know," Harry bragged a little bit, making Hermione duck her head, but she had a pleased smile on her face. "So, how long have the pair of you been dating?"
"We have been working together a lot on the Dumbledore case, plus with our history, it was natural to end up being together," Sirius explained, a little anxious. He wanted his eldest to be OK with the witch because he really liked her. He felt like it was time to settle down, maybe have some more children before he got too old, if he could have them.
"Madam Bones," Harry had a solemn look on his face, Sirius' heart plummeted to the ground, "are you able to take care of the mutt? Feed him, water him, and occasionally take him for walks."
"You little bugger," Sirius swiped his head as Hermione and Amelia burst out laughing.
"I am sure I can keep him well trained; they say you cannot teach old dogs' new tricks, but I definitely like to keep my mutts up to scratch," Amelia answered through her laughter.
"I think you will do. Welcome to the family," Harry grinned at his father.
"When are you planning on telling Cepheus?" Hermione asked.
"Well, this is still pretty new, but maybe tell him at Christmas," Sirius replied, "I hope you have dress robes, Hermione?"
"Why do I need dress robes?" Hermione eyed the trickster suspiciously.
"We will be holding the Black annual ball. Everyone important will be there. When I was growing up, they were the highlight of the social year," Sirius responded.
"I thought you could not stand stuff like all that?" the girl asked.
"House of Black needs to return to the political arena. Though these are significant social events to let one's hair down, so to speak, they are also where all deals and alliances are made," Sirius explained.
"Even Ministry balls could not compare to how much backroom dealing got done at a Black Ball," Amelia added, "Many laws and legislations began at Balls such as these,"
"Did your mother and father hold these balls?" Harry asked.
"Not really, Grandfather Arcturus was the real power behind these balls and the family," Sirius returned, before turning darker, "when he got sick, the family got darker, Abraxas Malfoy was leaning on the family to take up with Voldemort. Pollux, Arcturus' cousin, was trying to take over as Head of House Black, and he followed Voldemort religiously.
"Just before Voldemort was banished, Mother tried holding a ball, but none of the neutral side nor the government would come. I hear Pollux tried while I was in Azkaban," Sirius finished.
"He tried, but he was loonier than your mother. Unfortunately, it was a good thing he died before your grandfather," Amelia added. Harry was quite interested to hear about his family history; he drank the information up.
"So, this will be the first one in a few years," Hermione said aloud.
"Yes, we have already had many RSVP's back, including Minister Fudge and several important families, including the Selwyn's, Longbottom and regrettably Lucius Malfoy amongst others," Sirius ticked the names off with his hand.
"He has to invite them even if Sirius does not like them," Amelia tried to explain.
"Will we be safe?"
"Balls have been typically neutral ground. However, Amelia is providing some Aurors to keep everyone safe," Sirius returned.
"Well, it is obvious you are not using Hárasteorra Hall, and Grimmauld Place is disgusting," Hermione found Harry staring at her in surprise, "if you think about it logically, Harry, Sirius does not want many people knowing Hárasteorra' s location so it must mean he is using somewhere else."
"She is correct. That one is a keeper," Sirius winked at Hermione, making her blush as Amelia nudged him with her elbow. "The Black family own a smaller manor in Yorkshire. I was planning to give it to you as a wedding gift."
"Good thing we are not getting married yet." Now it was Harry's turn to blush. "So, when is all this happening?"
"Well, the house-elves are opening and cleaning Gaderscipe Nest, so we plan on you going to the school ball on the twenty-fourth, then I shall pick you up early Christmas day to spend the day with the family. Boxing Day, we will host the ball, then you will return to Hogwarts early January," Sirius answered. Instead of the frown Harry expected, Hermione was giggling.
"Now what?"
"Gaderscipe, it literally means Marriage in Old English," Hermione laughed outright, "so Gaderscipe Nest is a newlywed's nest."
"I think she has lost the plot," Harry suggested, seriously worried about his girlfriend as Sirius looked at his watch.
"Right, it should be time for our appointment at Gringotts," he suggested as Hermione sobered up. Harry realised a fireplace blazed against the far wall as Sirius took a pinch of Floo powder and called out Gringotts. Amelia followed suit, then Hermione followed finally by Harry. Harry emerged into a private room inside of Gringotts Bank.
"Good afternoon," Sirius greeted the stern-looking goblin, "we have an appointment with Account Manager Maglugg and Duggat."
"Come this way," the goblin grunted, leading them through the halls of Gringotts until they reached Maglugg's office. After knocking, the four of them entered to see Maglugg sitting behind his desk with the Potter goblin standing next to the desk.
"Greetings, Maglugg, another fine day out there," Sirius greeted the goblin.
"I am sure it is, but I find myself stuck inside an office with no windows," Maglugg answered, grumpy as ever. He looked at the two women carefully. "Now, before I continue, are you sure you want your associates to hear everything we are going to discuss?"
"Yes. There is no issue with them hearing the whole lot," Sirius responded.
"Right then, we finally finished our audit at the beginning of September of the Potter Account. We have also been working with the Family services Investigation team for the Wizengamot," Maglugg began, then looked to Duggat.
"Lord Rendlesham, you are still the Heir Potter, the holder of the Ancient seat of Potter," Duggat explained, "All assets, land, property, and businesses are to be given to you, sir. When you turn seventeen you assume the Wizengamot seat for Potter, taking on the titles Baron Potter."
"How?" Hermione spoke.
"Magic has strange ways of doing things. Family services did not know why you were still Heir Potter, but in everything; magic, blood, and name you are the recognised Heir," Duggat explained.
"What does this mean? Especially with my being the Heir Black?" Harry asked stumped.
"It means you must take two wives," Sirius joked.
"Be serious," Amelia responded, then added before the Animagus could utter a thing, "I know you are always Sirius."
"It may mean you will have to have a minimum of two children," the Goblin supplied helpfully. Harry stared at Hermione who shrugged. "We were also informed you would need to choose a Regent or Proxy until you come of age to stand in the Wizengamot."
"I have just the person," Harry grinned, a glint in his eye.
"Additionally, James Potter did leave you a letter," Duggat explained, a lot nicer than his colleague. He was also younger than Maglugg. The goblin handed over a letter to the boy, who unsealed it.
4th October 1981
Dear Harry,
I hope you have been told the truth, but you may be incredibly angry with me. When I was in the first year, I met Lily Evans and instantly had a crush on her. I knew my best friend liked her, but he gave up in our fourth year, so I tried to pursue her. When they began dating in the fifth year, I stepped back for the sake of our friendship.
At the beginning of our seventh year, Professor Dumbledore approached Lily and me and said that our world needed something to look forward to in this time of darkness. Lily reluctantly agreed to pretend to date me, although Dumbledore thought we were really dating. I was ecstatic but jealous when Sirius proposed to Lily valentines 1979.
Dumbledore pressured Lily and me to become married; it would be a light in the darkness. I argued with Lily for hours until she agreed, and we had a big wedding, which was broadcast on the Wizarding wireless and across the Prophet and Witch Weekly. By October, I even became bored with being a celebrity while fighting Voldemort's forces. We all escaped to New York.
A few months after our return, Dumbledore approached me about using the Potter money to fund the Order after an Order meeting. My parents had been dead for two years, and I had sole control. I refused, but he threatened me. He knew about Sirius and Lily; knew she was pregnant with his baby. I allowed him access to some of the funds.
We were all called into his office a few days after my meeting, where to my horror, he obliviated Lily and Sirius of their relationship. He planted the idea of Lily and I being fully married, and you were my child. Shamefully I let him continue as I was still in love with your mother.
Dumbledore does not know, but I blood adopted you. So, you would be recognised completely as a Potter. I also have Black blood in me, so hopefully you will be recognised as Heir Potter.
While we were hidden under the Fidelius Charm, Lily fought her obliviating. Somehow, she knew I was not her real soul mate. Still, I did not say anything to her playing the doting father and adoring husband.
I feel something is coming, though I do not know what, so I wanted this letter to tell the truth of who your real father was. If I am dead, I want all my possessions to go to you. I loved you like you were my own son even though you were born of another.
I hope you can forgive me, but I will always love you.
James Potter,
Your adoptive father.
Harry wordlessly handed over the letter to Hermione, unsure what to think of the man he had thought was his father for fifteen years. He wondered if his life would have been different if Sirius and Lily had not been obliviated.
"You cannot think like that, Harry," Hermione told him softly, seemingly knowing what he was thinking, as she handed the letter to Sirius. "For all his thoughts, he still loved you like you were his own."
"How do you know what I was thinking?" Harry shook the thoughts from his mind to look at his girlfriend.
"I can read your mind," she answered mysteriously before hugging him. "But it explains how you are recognised as Heir Potter, if he blood adopted you."
"What does it mean 'blood adopted?'" asked Harry.
"There are many rituals, now outlawed, that were used by pure-blood families to take another child into their family, so they would get the same rights as their own child," Amelia explained.
"James said he was a Black by blood," Harry suggested.
"We are several cousins apart, but James' mother was my own mum's Aunt," Sirius explained.
"What did James' leave Harry?" Hermione asked, getting them back on track.
"Well, your trust fund is down to three thousand Galleons, and the Potter family vaults are worth 6.5 million galleons in liquid assets with another three hundred thousand in various Heirlooms and books. Most of the businesses had been sold, but you now own three properties," Duggat looked through a dark ledger, "a manor in Wiltshire, a holiday home in Cornwall and a beach house in the United States."
"What about the property in Godric's Hollow?" Harry asked, confused.
"We have no records of the Potter owning a property in Godric's Hollow," Duggat answered.
"Because the House belonged to the Dumbledore family," Sirius supplied while scrutinising the goblin. "Why is the Potter portfolio only worth that much? The Potter's should have been an Ancient and Noble family; they were related to the Peverell's. They should be worth a lot more."
"We have come to the crux of the problem," Maglugg stated gravely, "Albus Dumbledore has been stealing from Harry for many years."
"What!" Harry and Sirius cried.
"As Harry's guardian, the man has had access to all his funds; he sold all the businesses for quite a bit of profit." Duggat explained, "and has been providing monthly stipends to the Weasley's, Dursley's, Mundungus Fletcher, Severus Snape and to himself, and Hogwarts."
"Why the hell did you not stop him?" Sirius grabbed the goblin up. Immediately two pointed pikes were at his throat. Harry had not realised there were other goblins in the room. Sirius slowly put the account manager down, holding his hands in the air.
"Gringotts is deeply sorry. The Potter's have been one of our most prominent financiers for thousands of years. However, we were told the same lie as everyone else; Harry Potter approved of the transactions Dumbledore were performing on his behalf," a deep voice spoke, and a wizened goblin stepped from the shadows.
"Director Ragnok, it's been a long time since we last saw each other," Sirius bowed deeply to the newcomer. The other's followed Sirius' example
"Yes, last time we met, you were at your Grandfathers' knee," Director Ragnok had a rich voice though he looked impressive with an air of authority.
"I am sorry, Lord Rendlesham, I should have watched over your finances more carefully. Please do what you will of me," Duggat prostrated himself before Harry.
"What happens to the accounts now?" Harry ignored the goblin on the floor to Hermione's horror.
"That depends on you. You have an Heir fund of ten million Galleons that you will not be able to access until you come of age. You also have four million Galleons, sixteen thousand Sickles and eighty Knuts being transferred from the sale of the Basilisk," Maglugg explained.
"Have you taken out the monies for the victims?" Harry asked.
"Yes, each victim will receive five hundred thousand galleons each—" Harry cut the goblin off.
"I would like for you to continue as the Potter Account Manager, when my children are old enough, they will take over. For the moment I would like the remaining money from the Basilisk and the liquid assets to be placed in a new account," Harry told them decisively.
"This is highly unusual," Ragnok suggested, "He should be punished not rewarded."
"Punished for something that was not his fault?" Sirius asked.
"Perhaps Maglugg could oversee him, so nothing like this happens again," Harry suggested, "I want you to invest the other 3.5 million liquid assets in businesses both Muggle and Magical that you think will profit me, you will receive ten per cent of the profit."
"How about twenty-five?" Duggat grinned at the boy.
"I will only go as high as thirty," Harry suggested with a twinkle in his eye.
"Done," Duggat agreed before realising the boy had gone up and not down. Sirius laughed, knowing the goblin had been pranked. Harry knew exactly what he was doing from the very start.
"Now, the other two million galleons with various Knuts and Sickles I want to be donated to the Black Foundation," Harry continued, then changed tack, throwing everyone, "You were saying about the other victims?"
"Yes, Mr Filch will receive the monies for his cat; we have identified relatives of Myrtle Warren and Nicholas De Mimsy-Porpington. The Mind Healer Miss Weasley is seeing has already been paid for. Miss Clearwater, Master Finch-Fletchly and Miss Granger shall be receiving theirs soon as shall Mr Weasley," Maglugg continued.
"Has the monies stopped going to all Dumbledore's recipients?" Sirius asked.
"Since we discovered Lord Rendlesham was your Heir," Duggat responded.
"May I have a copy of the files? We are building a case against Dumbledore, and those would be good evidence," Amelia asked, getting a nod from Ragnok. Maglugg immediately began duplicating the files that had the transactions in.
"Can you retrieve the money?" Sirius asked, looking at the three goblins.
"Not after all this time, though the Weasley's have only begun receiving money in the last six years, they are the most recent, we are still unable to retrieve the monies," Ragnok explained.
"Eh hem, there is one last thing we have to inform you of," Duggat looked at Maglugg uneasily.
"What is it?" Harry asked, unsure if he wanted to know.
"We discovered a Betrothal Contract between Harry Potter and Ginevra Weasley," Maglugg admitted.
"WHAT!" Everyone looked as Hermione exploded.
"It was signed between your magical guardian and Molly Weasley," Duggat continued.
"How were they able to circumvent the Lord's signature?" Amelia asked.
"As Arthur Weasley had not truly taken up the lordship, he had no say, so Mrs Weasley signed on behalf of the Prewitt family." Sirius looked them over; they were not telling him something.
"That bitch is not getting her claws on you," Hermione uttered.
"Hermione!" Harry cried shocked. She looked ashamed, but her face was still defiant.
"However, as Harry is actually Harry Antares Black, that should have negated the contract," Amelia supplied, allowing Harry to sigh in relief. A lightbulb went off in Sirius' mind; the contract was still active.
"The contract is still active. How?" Sirius asked as Harry deflated. Hermione clutched him.
"As the contract was filed away, we have only recently seen it, but the wording and intent are from some ancient contracts, which supersede almost everything. Even though Harry is a Black, the contract is still enforceable because of you being Heir Potter."
"Does Ginny know about it?" Hermione growled angry at James' for another reason, though deep down she knew it was not his fault.
"Unfortunately, we are unaware if any parties except for Mister Dumbledore and Mrs Weasley know of the contract,"
"Is there any way out of the contract?" Amelia now asked.
"We think the contract is ironclad," Hermione sobbed into Harry's chest, "but we may have a way of destroying it; we have to do more research first."
"I will accept that. Remus Lupin will be my Regent for the Potter Family, he will be able to sign anything in my stead," Harry told them.
"If you would have Mr Lupin, come into the bank, we shall sign the contracts for him to take over as your Regent in relation to Gringotts matters," Maglugg informed them.
"We shall do that," Sirius answered, standing.
"Thank you for keeping faith with the bank, Lord Rendlesham, Your Grace," Ragnok bowed, leaving the room. Harry signed the paperwork for Remus becoming his Regent, promising to look at the Potter residence at some point soon.
The four humans were escorted out of the office once their business was completed, back to the private Floo room.
"Harry, are you alright if we head straight to Hárasteorra Hall?" Sirius asked. "Do you want to talk about the Betrothal Contract?"
"To be honest, I do not really want to think about it. I really do not think of Ginny that way," Harry held Hermione to him as they looked at the other pair. "I will talk about it soon once I have processed it."
"All right, I shall inform Remus of his new duties," Sirius replied with a grin. Harry hugged his father, saying goodbye to Amelia. Several minutes later, the two teens were back in the private room in the Three Broomsticks. "Now you can yell at me?"
"What the hell was that? Why am I receiving money from you? I am not a charity case," Hermione exploded, allowed to let her anger out.
"During the summer, we had the goblins render the Basilisk I fought during the second year, but I did not want a single knut from its sale. However, I was talked into taking half, while the second half went to the victims of the Basilisk, including Mrs Norris and Moaning Myrtle," Harry explained, "it was not charity, just what you were owed. Think of it this way, it will pay for the rest of your tuition at Hogwarts with plenty left over for books."
"I am sorry I yelled at you, Harry. I know it was not your fault," Hermione's eyes had lit up at books. He took her in his arms and kissed the girl softly.
"I would never think of you as a charity case, probably because you would kill me if I did," Harry grinned. "Do you want to discuss the betrothal contract?"
"Not really. I really need to go to the library and do some research." That is what Harry loved about the witch when in crisis, go to the library and research.
"OK, we should get some lunch before we look around Hogsmeade."
"Only if I get to pay," Hermione demanded as Harry held the door open for her. He limped out behind her, heading back to the hustle and bustle of the Inn's central part when the feeling of utter desperation almost overwhelmed him.
Chapter 19: Nineteen: Ghouls and Toads
Harry's heartbeat thudded in his chest as he began to feel the icy coldness of Dementors starting to overwhelm him. But he fought it; looking at Hermione was like a ray of sunshine on a dark, gloomy day.
"Keep everyone indoors," Harry shouted to Madam Rosmerta as the pair ran out onto the main street of Hogsmeade, utterly confused. They were sure it was only mid-afternoon, but it was so gloomy that the magical lamps had lit themselves.
"There are Dementors here!" Hermione shouted. Screams erupted from the street. Harry dropped his cane, pulling both of his wands out. He limped towards the screams finding the road covered by several Death Eaters in their Black garb with white masks. Harry saw a third year being bitten by one of the Death Eaters. However, Harry had the element of surprise on hand. He transfigured a stick to a crossbow then aimed it at the person biting the boy, firing quickly the arrow embedded itself in the vampire's head, killing it.
"What was that?" Hermione asked.
"Vampire! Confringo." Harry replied, then fired the blasting curse as the Death Eaters took notice of them. Past the group of Death Eaters, Harry saw flashes of light where another battle was taking place.
"Harry, what do you want us to do?" Lee Jordan shouted. He was just about to reply when shouts interrupted him.
"Inferi," came a scream from behind.
"Grab any sixth and seventh years you can, protect the lower years. Use fire on the Inferi," He shouted back as he ducked an attack from one of the death eaters. "Expecto Patronum. Confringo!"
"Watch out," Hermione yelled out as she called out her own spell. His Raven Patronus emerged from one of the wands, larger than anyone had seen, chasing after the dementors. He uttered a blasting curse with the other wand that hit one of the wizards in the leg, taking a large chunk of it. The Death Eater immediately cried out in pain, falling to the ground. His partner looked at him in fear, then instantly Apparated away from Hogsmeade. Harry and Hermione fought back-to-back, sweat trickling down their backs as they took on the remaining Death Eaters.
"Ignis Brynewelm," Harry shouted. A wave of fire erupted from one of his wands, unlike anything Hermione had ever seen. It seemed to take the form of a raven as it swept down over the Death Eaters, burning three of them up instantly. The flame raven then appeared to attack the Dementors who were waiting for the Patronus to disappear. The dark creatures lit up like a pyre, Hermione stared at them. Nothing could kill Dementor, yet two were now dust, and little golden balls were floating away from them. Hermione watched as the last remaining Death Eaters disappeared, Apparating away from Hogsmeade, leaving behind their dead compatriots. Light cut through, and the gloom seemed to lift.
"Amateurs," Draco shouted, hobbling over to the Death Eater, and kicking him. Several pops announced the arrival of newcomers as the Dementors fled. Harry stood, planted to the ground waiting for the next attack.
"Good lad, Constant Vigilance," Alastor Moody barked as he came over to Harry, who lowered his wands slightly but was still wary. "You look very comfortable with two wands."
"I have been practising a lot with them," Harry returned. "Are the Inferi contained?"
"They've been destroyed; the students did really well," Moody gruffly admired the students.
"Is there any dead?" Harry asked as he saw some witches appear wearing the white robes of Healers.
"Four dead from what I'm told. There's another dead over there. Looks like a vampire kill," Moody was watching the body of the young boy be covered up. "So, can you tell me what happened?"
"Hermione and I were in the Three Broomsticks when we felt utter despair; we came out to find there were about a dozen Death Eaters and a couple of Dementors," Harry reported to the Auror as Hermione inspected him. He leaned on her as he began to feel his leg begin to tremble. "Seems a bit of a poor showing for Voldemort."
"I think he was testing you," Captain Proudfoot came overlooking the pair up and down. After Harry's attack, the teen had met with his cousin and the senior Auror several time, liking the man immensely.
"You believe he is back?" Harry asked the thirty-ish Auror.
"Well, this seems to indicate he has returned, even if Fudge is keeping our hands tied," the Auror answered.
"Watch your mouth; he's still the Minister." Moody spoke sternly. Harry wondered if he was here with the Order or as an Auror. The man caught him looking, "I am a consultant with the Auror's now, Her ladyship still thinks I might be of some use."
"Glad she does," Proudfoot muttered, but Harry heard him and gave the Auror a grin.
"Could not stay retired?" Harry asked cheekily.
"I'll give you retired, boy. Let's hope I'm not still training when you become an Auror," the grizzled man told the teen. Rufus Scrimgeour, the head Auror approached them.
"Lord Rendlesham, you seem to have a pretty eventful life," the leonine-like man commented. Then turned to the other Aurors, "Captain, Major."
"Not a Major anymore," Moody muttered.
"We managed to capture on the of the men attacking," Scrimgeour ignored the old warrior.
"Well, what did he say!" Moddy looked impatient.
"Initial questioning from Terrence Crabbe suggests they decided to capture the blood-traitor to try to please the dark lord."
"Crabbe? As in Vincent's father?" Harry asked, curious.
"I wouldn't know the relation," Proudfoot admitted.
"Yes, that was Terrence Crabbe and Demetri Goyle, the fathers of Vincent and Gregory. Not the brightest sparks in the Dark Lord's army," Draco was leaning heavily on Theo Nott.
"Did they think you were an easy target?" Hermione asked.
"I really don't know what they were thinking, but Father and Voldemort are going to be angry."
"Some of the things I've heard suggested you destroyed Dementors," Scrimgeour spoke up peering at the boy sharply. Moody looked at the boy curiously, who just shrugged.
"I just used Expecto Patronum, nothing different," Harry lied.
"I will want a more extensive interview later, head up to the Hospital Wing at Hogwarts and get checked out," the Head Auror told the blond boy who had blood flowing freely from several wounds. Harry looked him over. Scrimgeour walked away with the ex-auror and senior Auror in tow.
"Well, you are not going to die straight away, so we should get a carriage back and get you to Aunt Andi," Harry said, "she's gonna be pissed at you."
"It is not my fault. You will have to defend me, Harry. You are her favourite," Draco looked more scared of Andromeda than his injuries. Harry was exhausted, so his limping was more pronounced as he leaned on Hermione more while Draco used Theo as his crutch.
"So, cousin, anything you want to tell us?" Harry teased the boy looking at the pair who were holding hands. Draco's cheeks flushed a beautiful pink.
"Erm, yeah, erm, Theo and I are a couple," Draco admitted.
"I don't know how you put up with him," Harry drawled in an impression of Draco.
"About the same as Granger puts up with you, I suppose," Theo returned as they reached the carriages.
"Touché," Harry returned as Theo gave Draco a hand up into the carriages and Hermione helped Harry.
"Want to tell me why you lied to the Auror? What was that spell anyway?" Hermione asked as he settled in opposite Draco.
"It is an old Black spell. I did not want the Aurors to know anything as it is potentially a 'dark' spell," Harry responded.
"You used the Flame Wave spell, right?" Draco asked him, getting a nod in return. Harry seemed to analyse Theo then made up his mind. He began telling Draco about his trip to Gringotts, including the Betrothal to Ginny Weasley.
"Can you get out of the betrothal?" Theo asked cautiously.
"Unfortunately, not, somehow despite Harry being a Black, the contract is clad in iron," Hermione answered, her nostrils like slits. Harry knew the girl was angry.
"Is there a way around it?" Draco knew my contracts had a clause in them.
"The Goblins are looking into it, but I am going to do my own research," Hermione's eyes lit up at the thought of going to the library. The carriages jerked to a stop; Harry looked out.
"Uh oh," he said.
"What?" Draco lifted an eyebrow.
"Aunt Andi is out there, and she looks pissed,"
"Oh shit," Draco uttered, sinking further into his seat.
"Well, it is best to get this over with," Harry suggested getting help from Hermione to face Andromeda.
"Are you alright?" she looked him over, noticing minor cuts and injuries. She also took note that his limp was much more evident than usual.
"I am fine; nothing got close to hitting me. Hermione's shields were fabulous," Harry smiled at his girlfriend. "However, I think Draco is injured; looks like he's trying to copy me with his leg."
"Traitor, coward," Draco shouted as Andromeda bustled over to the coach to look over the blond teen. She looked back over at Harry, "Hermione, dear, could you help Harry to the Hospital Wing."
"Damn it," Harry cursed as he heard Draco's laugh floated out of the coaches. Harry had thought he might get away with just returning to the Gryffindor tower. Hermione started leading him into the castle as other students stared at him.
Daily Prophet
Students attacked in Hogsmeade.
Jedwin Robards
Saturday afternoon, Hogsmeade was attacked by a rogue group of domestic terrorist copy-catting Death Eaters. Sources on the ground believe that Draco Black, formerly Malfoy, was the target for unknown reasons. It is understood there were twelve of them with three Dementors and a dozen or so Inferi.
Harry Black, the Marquess of Rendlesham, aged fifteen, arrived and countered the attack. You will remember he was recently attacked at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry by an unknown person. With him stood Hermione Granger and several Sixth and seventh-year students who managed to thwart the attack.
Unfortunately, six students were killed, including Bertie Applebee, a third year Hufflepuff whose little sister had just been born….
Saturday, the week after the fateful Hogsmeade trip, the weather could not have been better for a game of Quidditch. There was no wind to speak of while the sun was high in the sky, burning the crisp chilly air making it pleasant for teachers, students, and players alike. Harry stood at the door to the pitch, just barely making out Seamus Finnegan, who had taken over the commentating.
"Welcome Boys and girls, Ladies and Gentlemen, teachers, to the first match of the season and the year, Gryffindor vs Slytherin. The two teams are the most competitive that have been seen in several years. Still, both seekers are sporting injuries," Seamus commented, "Ravenclaw is leading the House Points now, but if either Gryffindor or Slytherin win, they will leapfrog into first. Hopefully, Gryffindor will smash those Snakes."
"Lee- I mean Seamus," McGonagall shouted. She had hoped he would not be like Lee Jordan, who was sat next to him teaching the Irish boy the finer points of commenting.
"Sorry, miss, now before we start, I have been requested by Professor Dumbledore a two-minute silence for the six students that lost their lives in last week's cowardly attack." Silence filled the stadium. Only the rustling of pennants could be heard until Seamus began again after two minutes. "Right folks, here comes the Gryffindor team; Bell, Johnson, Spinnet, Weasley, Weasley and Weasley. Now, Johnson has put together a good team, especially Katie Bell-ow- OK, and here comes our star seeker, Black," Cheers erupted across three of the houses at Harry's name as the Gryffindor team flew out to the centre of the pitch.
"Who do you think will win?" Theo asked as he sat next to Granger, getting strange looks from the Slytherin's.
"Gryffindor," Hermione said proudly.
"Draco's put together an excellent side," Theo told her.
"This year, new captain Draco Black has actually put together a rather skilled team, introducing the Slytherins; Dearborn, Harper, Pucey, Greengrass, Vaisey, Bletchley and Black," resplendent in their green Quidditch robes they met the Gryffindors in the middle of the field. Madam Hooch flew over, meeting them.
"I want a nice clean match," Madam Hooch pronounced, as Johnson and Draco as the captains shook the others hand. Draco looked at Harry with a grin and saluted him. Madam Hooch flicked a golden Galleon into the air allowing Johnson to win the coin toss, making sure she started with the quaffle, each of the teams facing across from each other.
"This match has been claimed to be epic, Mal- erm, Black and Black have been rivals for years, now they've started a friendship in a bid to get the houses cooperating together," Finnegan announced as the whistle was blown, "oh, there goes Johnson with the quaffle-whew-that bludger nearly hit her as one of the Weasley twins' fires back at the Ice Princess."
Harry floated above the match, looking out for the vaunted Snitch. He looked across at Draco, who, instead of tailing Harry, was searching for the Snitch. During the summer, they had often played seeker matches, and they were equally matched, which Harry found quite surprising. He heard a snatch of Seamus' commentary.
"And it's Johnson, Johnson with the Quaffle, what a player that girl is, I've been saying it for years, but she still will not go out with me —"
"Finnegan!" yelled Professor McGonagall.
"Just a fun fact, Professor, adds a bit of interest — and she's ducked Dearborn, she's passed Bletchley, she's — ouch — been hit from behind by a Bludger from Vaisey . . . Dearborn catches the Quaffle, Dearborn heading back up the pitch and — nice Bludger there from George Weasley, I think, that's another bludger to the head for Dearborn, he drops the quaffle, caught by Bell, Katie Bell of Gryffindor reverse passes to Alicia Spinnet and Spinnet's away —"
Once again, Harry found himself focussed on the game below him. Score! Spinnet punched the air as another bludger headed her way, but now Harper had the quaffle. Angelina attacked so Katie could once again pick up the quaffle, but Dearborn got in first. He shot off down the field, scoring past Weasley before anyone could do anything.
"That's 10-10 folks; we're on level pegging after fifteen minutes," Finnegan could be heard as Harry began to do his job searching for the elusive Snitch. "Yes, Bell is back in possession of the quaffle. She avoids Pucey and Harper as a Bludger causes her to lose it. Johnson has it, yes that's 20-10 Gryffindor."
"WEASLEY IS OUR KING!" Harry heard from the Slytherins, who seemed to be trying to intimidate the Keeper.
"With Slytherin in possession of the quaffle, Pucey passes to Harper, who heads towards the goal-Ohh that must have hurt as he's carted off by Madame Pomfrey, what's that the two seekers have seen the Snitch?" Harry tried to gain Draco's attention by feinting. Diving from on high, he could feel his cousin behind him, but Harry pulled up hard as he reached the ground. The blond must have realised early as he gave his rival a grin and once again settled by the Slytherin goal posts.
Weasley cannot save a thing,
He cannot block a single ring,
That's why Slytherins all sing:
Weasley is our King.
Weasley was born in a bin,
He always lets the quaffle in,
Weasley will make sure we win,
Weasley is our King.
"— and Spinnet passes back to Johnson!" Finnegan shouted, and as Harry swerved, his insides boiling at what he had just heard, he knew Seamus was trying to drown out the sound of the singing. "Come on now, Angelina — looks like she's just got the Keeper to beat! — SHE SHOOTS — SHE — aaaah . . ."
Bletchley, the Slytherin Keeper, had saved the goal; he threw the quaffle to Dearborn who sped off with it, dodging in between Alicia and Katie; the singing from below grew louder and louder as he drew nearer and nearer Ron —
Weasley is our King,
Weasley is our King,
He always lets the quaffle in,
Weasley is our King.
" —Pucey has got the quaffle and passes it to the reserve chaser, surprisingly, Pansy Parkinson who moves forward diving beneath her opposite Bell and straight into the goal protected by Keeper Weasley," Seamus belted out "With the score of 20-20, the game is beginning to heat up, Johnson with the quaffle but now the lithe Dearborn has got it back and scored yet again.
"Derrick Vaisey hits his bludger at the Keeper Weasley, sending him flying as Spinnet heads for the goal protected by Bletchley," Finnegan screamed. "Oh, she loses the quaffle to Parkinson, who scores again."
Over an hour later, Harry had seen little sign of the Snitch, but Slytherin had gone into the lead sixty-forty.
"Can you tell your lot to knock that song off?" Harry called over to his counterpart.
"I did tell them, but Blaise seems determined to rile them up," Draco answered as Harry finally spotted the Snitch. Slowly to not attract Draco's attention, he inched the Firebolt towards the Snitch. Harry felt, rather than heard, Draco behind him as he shot off towards the Snitch. The dark-haired teen was streaming forward when he heard a hushed gasp, then a scream. Harry turned on a dime to find Draco had been hit by a bludger. Unconscious, the blond was falling from about one hundred feet, killing him if he hit the ground. Harry looked around for options, but there was not any, forcing him to use an unconventional and hazardous move he had been practising with many bruises to show from the practice. The teen swung on the underside of the broom and opened his arms. Without guidance, the broom lost power leaving Harry Black freefalling out of the sky.
"Merlin's Pants Draco Black is falling, possibly unconscious, but what is our golden boy doing? Harry is freefalling. This will be up there with the Wronski feint," Finnegan shouted. Harry kicked away from the Firebolt about ten yards off the ground and caught his cousin in his arms, rolling as he hit the ground. Harry protected his cousin and himself from the worst of it. He lay flat, groaning. Oh god, I should not have done that, he thought, but that was so cool. Below him, he could hear the other boy groaning just as something hard smacked into his back.
"Foul!" the Weasley twins called out. Just as Harry raised his arm, revealing the Snitch and hearing Hooch's whistle blow.
"I never knew you liked it on top," Draco muttered, looking at his cousin.
"Prat," Harry got up, offering the other boy his hand, pulling him up.
"Well, well, well, saved the blood traitor, have we? I am sure the dark lord will be upset," a voice drawled, which almost sounded like Draco. Harry turned to find Blaise Zabini flanked by Draco's usual goons Crabbe and Goyle. Pansy Parkinson watched from nearby but seemed reluctant to join in.
"Ignore him Draco, he is really not worth your time," Harry intoned, turning away from the Slytherin's to meet up with the rest of the team who had descended on him. They were all yelling and punching the air in victory except for Ron, who appeared sullen.
"I was going to make some more lines, but perhaps I should have written about Draco," Zabini, "But I could not think of anything that rhymes with stuck up-"
"If Malfoy can take defeat graciously, why can't he?" Angelina asked, giving the dark-skinned boy a look of utter contempt.
"-I do not think I can fit in pathetic, either, even if your father is a complete coward," Zabini threw out. Draco stiffened, causing Harry to grab his arm, starting to pull him away.
"Look Draco," Katie Bell told him, grabbing his arm, "I'm not your biggest fan, but it took real bravery to go against your beliefs,"
"You have always liked the Weasel family, Potter? Both are blood traitors and lower than scum," the boy continued as Harry tried to grab the Weasley twins as the other boy insulted them. Harry had ignored the fact he called him Potter and not Black.
"Or perhaps," said Zabini, leering as he backed away, "you can remember what your mother's house stank like, Potter and Weasley's pigsty reminds you of it —"
Harry could not remember when he released the Weasley twin he was holding, but suddenly he was racing alongside Draco towards Zabini and the Goon squad. Harry had nothing in his mind but punching that smarmy little snake in the mouth. Instead of grabbing his wand, Harry attacked the boy Muggle-style by putting his fist into the boy's face.
"Harry! HARRY! DRACO! NO!" He thought he could hear Hermione's voice, but all he felt was the face beneath his fist and Zabini's cries of pain. Then suddenly, he was flying away from the other boy. He quickly shot to his feet, standing close to Draco when Madam Hooch's voice was heard.
"What is going on here?" the Quidditch instructor looked furious as she took in Draco with a bleeding nose, Harry with blood all on his hand and Zabini lying on the floor holding his face. "I have never seen such behaviour before- I want you to go up to the castle and wait in Professor McGonagall's office."
Harry and Draco trudged up to the castle, both still angry, but neither said a word as they left the Quidditch pitch behind. The sounds faded as they reached nearer the castle.
"I thought Sirius had sorted out the Prophet?" Draco asked.
"What do you mean?" Harry looked at his cousin strangely.
"Well, they refused to acknowledge that it was Death Eaters attacking Hogsmeade in that article last week."
"Oh yes, Fudge is still leaning on them. Apparently, fear of having their license revoked is worse than Dad leaning on them. Besides, they are not bad mouthing me, so he cannot really do anything to them," Harry answered.
"Damn, I was hoping we would get a more truthful paper," Draco lamented as they walked in silence until Harry spoke up.
"What do you think they will do to us?" Harry asked quietly.
"Detention until we leave school next year," Draco mused. Then he looked at Harry. "What made you finally snap?"
"That last comment about my mum, I might have my father now, but I still think of her all the time," Harry answered honestly.
"Sirius is great, though, sometimes I cannot tell if he is being, well, serious or joking," Draco laughed through his bleeding nose. They fell into a comfortable silence as they walked through the school to McGonagall's office. They had been standing outside of her office less than five minutes when the woman arrived alongside Severus Snape, glaring at Harry like it was all his fault.
"In!" Harry was not sure he had ever seen his Head of House so furious. The pair shuffled in, followed by the two teachers.
"You are a Slytherin! How did you allow Black to get you into a brawl?" Snape asked his voice seemingly barely over a whisper.
"Excuse me, are you claiming that Harry coerced Draco into fighting?" McGonagall's face was white, and her hands clenched.
"As a Slytherin, we are taught not to brawl like common mudblood's," Snape released, getting a glare from Harry.
"How dare you use that term in school! I shall be talking to Albus about this," she replied, now livid as she turned on the two boys. "I want you both to explain yourselves now?"
"Zabini provoked us," Harry answered honestly.
"Really?" Professor McGonagall replied sarcastically, "his team had just lost, of course, he wanted to provoke you, child-"
"He insulted my mother and father," Draco drew himself up to his full height staring at the Transfiguration teacher. "Then decided to insult Harry's dead mother."
"Then it is quite alright to fight like a muggle," Snape added sarcastically.
"No, we're sorry-" Harry began staring furiously at the two teachers.
"Hem, hem," they were all surprised to see Dolores Umbridge at the door looking, as always, like an oversized toad.
"Yes?" McGonagall asked in a polite but strained voice.
"May I help, Professor McGonagall?" the Defence teacher asked in her sweetest voice, which grated on Harry's nerves.
"Help?" she repeated in a constricted voice. "What do you mean, 'help'?"
"Why, I thought you might be grateful for a little extra authority." Professor Umbridge moved forward into the office, still smiling her sickly smile. Harry would not have been surprised to see sparks fly from Professor McGonagall's nostrils.
"You thought wrong," she said, turning her back on Umbridge. "Now, you two had better listen closely. I do not care what provocation Zabini offered you. I do not care if he insulted every family member you possess. Your behaviour was disgusting, and I am giving each of you a week's worth of detention! Do not look at me like that, Black; you deserve it! And if either of you ever —"
"Hem, hem." Professor McGonagall closed her eyes as though praying for patience as she turned her face toward Professor Umbridge again.
"Yes?"
"I think they deserve rather more than detentions," said Umbridge, smiling still more broadly.
"Thankfully, only Professor Snape and I have the power to discipline under Educational Decree Twenty-Four," Professor McGonagall reminded the pink-dressed woman.
"Actually, that decree has been revoked by the Minister of Magic," Umbridge told the two surprised teachers with an air of superiority. "Under Article Twenty-five-"
"Not another one," the Scottish woman muttered.
"The Educational Decree Number Twenty-four shall be superseded so that the High Inquisitor will henceforth have supreme authority over all punishments, sanctions, and removal of privileges pertaining to the students of Hogwarts, and the power to alter such penalties, sanctions, and removals of privileges as may have been ordered by other staff members." Umbridge concluded with an evil smile, "So I think that these miscreants really need to learn their lessons with a ban from playing Quidditch ever again."
"Excuse me!" Snape burst out.
"Ban us?" Harry asked, looking at a very shocked Draco. "like…from playing ever again?"
"Yes, Mr Potter, I think a lifelong ban ought to do the trick," replied Umbridge.
"Draco Black is the captain of the house team and as such has put together the team," Snape told the woman.
"Perhaps he should have thought about that before he joined with a nasty little liar," Umbridge began to show her colours. The buzzing stopped in Harry's ears. He straightened up like a true lord, his eyes blazing.
"I have asked you politely to call me Lord Rendlesham, as befits my position," Harry informed the woman with a cold voice. She looked at him strangely.
"You do not deserve that title, in my school, you are just Mr Black," Umbridge finally got his name right.
"Ah, but it is not your school, Madam Umbridge. You are nothing more than the Minister's lapdog."
"Mr Black!" Professor McGonagall looked shocked.
"I am sorry, Professors, but the House of Black will no longer stand for the torture of its Heir nor have the Ministry threaten my betrothed." All three teachers looked at the young lord in shock; even Draco stared at his cousin.
"Torture?" McGonagall asked.
"Betrothed?" Umbridge uttered, gulping.
"For the first two weeks of school, I was subjected to the use of a blood quill. When I warned Madam Umbridge that I would tell my father, she threatened me by offering Miss Granger, my betrothed, to Lucius Malfoy or other dark factions under the Muggle-born act," Harry explained as McGonagall stared at the woman in horror. "Petrificus Totalus."
"What are you doing, Black?" Severus snarled as Harry had pointed his wand at the Defence teacher, causing her to be bound.