Chapter 26: Twenty-Six: The Darkened Truth
I would also like to take this time to thank my fantastic editor, Night Auditor, who is absolutely incredible, not just at editing but steering me in the right direction and helping me with ideas.
Time seemed to pass quickly, and before Harry knew it, the Easter holidays were upon them. Harry was excited for this holiday, in his five-year career at Hogwarts, except for summer, he had never gone away for the holidays. He chatted to his friends as they walked down to the station; Hermione and Draco were coming home with him while Neville returned to his ancestral home for the first week and then joined them for the second week.
"Well, if it ain't Miss Prissy and his trio of Gryffindorks," Zabini sneered as they approached the station. The tall black boy completely ignored Cepheus. Crabbe and Goyle had latched onto the boy and now followed him around as they once had Draco.
"Get lost, Zabini," Draco drawled.
"I don't know what you did to that Monahan Kid, but you'll never win the war," the boy hissed. Harry noticed Pansy Parkinson giving Draco dreamy looks, maybe hoping he would come back to the fold. Instead, Hermione took Cepheus hand and dragged him away, protesting. Harry took a final look at his quasi-brother and gently led Neville away. Draco stepped up to the taller boy, his eyes glittering with malice.
"Remember who you are talking to. I am a Son of Malfoy and Black. You might think you know what side I am on, but remember, my father used to be the right-hand man of the Dark Lord. So, I have more of a chance of becoming his loyal servant than you do," Draco whispered to the boy, who paled. "I am still the Prince of Slytherin, whether you like it or not."
Draco walked away, none of the four Slytherins seeing the slight grin on his face as he stepped aboard the Hogwarts Express. He moved down the passageway, eventually finding his friends. Harry was staring outside of the window as Neville and Hermione discussed something. Cepheus had already disappeared to find his year-mates.
"Did you miss me?" Draco asked as he entered the compartment.
"Like a Gnome misses Kneazles," Harry drawled in a voice so similar to Draco the other occupants laughed aloud. Draco immediately got a grump on and sat down. Soon the train was underway as the four talked about the O. W. L's and upcoming Quidditch matches. Hermione stretched and looked at her watch.
"Come on, Neville, we had better do our patrol," she told the boy. Neville had become the newest Gryffindor prefect after Ron was removed from the job.
"You might see Daphne," Draco teased the boy, who blushed.
"Leave him alone. I think it is sweet he has a crush on the girl," Hermione mock-admonished, then the pair were gone. Immediately Draco performed several spells for privacy, and Harry sat up, paying attention to the blond.
"What have you found out?" Harry asked curiously.
"Why could we not tell Hermione? The research would go so much faster," Draco whined.
"You know why, I want it to stay between us until I can go to Sirius with proof," Harry returned, "now stop being a baby, and tell me what you found out?"
"Well, according to most records, Gryffindor's sword, though he named it after himself, which I find a bit pretentious, really!" Draco went off on a tangent, so Harry urged him on. "Anyway, what we are taught is that Ragnuk the First forged the sword in the tenth Century and gifted it to the great wizard known as Gryffindor."
"But you still believe Excalibur is Gryffindor's sword?" Harry asked.
"I managed to get Aunt Andi to take me to The British Library a few weekends ago; I told her it was for a research project. So, I spoke to the Magical librarian and got access to their archives. I found a document from the mid-10th century saying that the sword Caliburnhad been presented to Gryffindor by Cadmus Peverell and his wife, Drusilla Black. Before you ask, Caliburn is another name for Excalibur," Draco explained. "Cadmus Peverell was the last of his name in that line; his son disowned his father and took his mother's name. But there are mentions of Caliburn back over three hundred years until we reach the sixth century, wherein the journal by the Duke of Ilfracombe mentions that he hated the name Excalibur, so changed it to Caliburn, the sword's first name.
"I managed to unearth a diary extract from the son of Sir Bedivere Peverell, which tells the story of his father summoned to the death bed of Arthur. He is told to take the three magical items and hide them, so no one like Medraut can ever rise again." Draco finished his tale.
"So, if Excalibur is real, then are the other relics real? The wand and the armour," Harry asked.
"I would assume so, but I would have to do further research into all of them to discover what happened," Draco answered thoughtfully. "Actually, I discovered a second sword; the legend of Excalibur has been mixed up with Clarent, the true sword in the stone."
"So, Arthur had two swords?" Harry asked, fascinated by the tale.
"From snatches of stories written at the time, we know that Uther Pendragon knew that Medraut had a claim to the throne, so to make sure Arthur was crowned, he challenged anyone to pull Clarent from the Stone. Anyone that did would become the rightful king; after many men tried, Arthur pulled the sword from the Stone and declared king.
However, Arthur felt the sword was dark and malevolent, so he handed the sword to Medraut, not knowing this sword would quite literally kill him."
"Do you know what happened to Clarent?" Harry asked, worried it may fall into the wrong hands.
"I did not have the time; I only managed to spend the week in London. But unfortunately, Madam Hooch would not allow me any more time off, and I think Andi was getting suspicious," Draco replied.
"We have time over the Easter Holidays; perhaps we can use Neville as an excuse," Harry answered. Silence descended for a moment as the two boys' thought about King Arthur and the two legendary swords. "So, is this what you want to be as an adult, a historian?"
"I love history and research, but no, I would actually like to teach," Draco admitted.
"Gunning for Professor Binn's job?" Harry grinned at the boy.
"Who wants Binn's job?" Hermione asked as she entered with Neville. They settled into a debate on teaching vs research. Harry watched his future wife and his quasi brother with a smile. He wondered how he had got here, an actual brother and father with two boys he considers brothers in all but blood. He was extremely fortunate.
Lord Voldemort surveyed those in the darkroom, like Harry's vision to Riley; the large hall was worn and old. Once a grand ballroom, it had been neglected for so long the wood was beginning to rot, and the curtains looked moth-eaten, but the Death Eaters would never complain. The man once called Tom Riddle liked the atmosphere, it smelled of death, and he was death incarnate.
"The war is turning, but not in my favour," Voldemort hissed, "I have been unable to reach the prophecy, especially after the attack on Weasley. It seems that Black has started to control the Wizengamot; he has even ousted Dumbledore."
"But he is a boy!" one of the Death Eater's foolishly said. So, Voldemort casually put the man under the Cruciatus curse.
"The child has grown into a man and somehow has managed to stop me from seeing into his mind. It is of no consequence. I have other ways of baiting him," Voldemort batted the concern away casually. "However, he is a danger to some unique artefacts that I had hidden in my first reign. One of which is concealed at Hogwarts, and with my newest recruits, I shall have it once again."
"We shall serve you to our dying breath," the eight robed individuals intoned.
"So, you wish to become Death Eaters?" Voldemort asked the eight before him.
"Yes!" They all answered as one. Hundreds of darkly-clothed Death Eaters lined the Grand Hall for this initiation on the moon-lit night. Only the eight kneeling individuals were lined up in front of their master and lord. Voldemort reached the first one, throwing back the hood to reveal Pansy Parkinson, who looked up with adoration in her eyes,
"Ah, Miss Parkinson, your father and mother have served me well. I see a bright future ahead of you," Voldemort praised the girl, then touched his wand to her upraised arm. The Dark Mark burned brightly on her pale skin. "May you serve me well."
"Yes, My Lord," the girl nodded, taking a step back to join her parents amongst the other Death Eaters. The same ritual happened for Gregory Goyle, Vincent Crabbe and the two Carrow sisters before reaching a tall figure. However, unlike the other five, this initiate stood proud with broad shoulders. As Voldemort reached him, the figure swept its hood away to reveal Blaise Zabini.
"Blaise Zabini, your mother is incredibly loyal to me. She has been accommodating in the Wizengamot," Voldemort praise aloud, "But you are already helping me before you have taken the Dark Mark. Communicating with Bella regularly."
"Yes, my Lord," the dark-coloured boy almost sounded bored. Voldemort observed him carefully, knowing the intelligent Death Eaters were trouble.
"Why?"
"Because, my Lord, Potter-Black and his group are a bunch of fucking pansies. I have a network of spies at my disposal at Hogwarts, including Gryffindor and two within Black's own circle," Zabini spat out, "He is an overhyped jumped-up little shit that should never have been born."
"I applaud your passion, but I am not going to mark you. Your knowledge has proven most welcome with regards to our last few attacks. I want you to keep writing to Bella and inform me of everything. It has been some time since I was last at Hogwarts, so I need to know their defences." Blaise Zabini stepped back into the crowd with a small smile. He knew Voldemort only saw him as a jealous teenager, but a Zabini should never be underestimated.
Finally, Voldemort turned to the last two figures of the line-up, who, like Blaise before them, were both standing tall, but even the other Death Eaters could see the shock of red hair that emerged from the two hoods. The dark lord pushed back the first man's hood.
"My family have no idea of my true loyalties. We could have been an Ancient and Noble Family if they had not squandered the wealth before joining that Muggle-loving fool, Dumbledore. I can give you information from the Ministry."
"I find that acceptable," Voldemort agreed before stepping forward to press his wand against the underarm of Percy Weasley. The Dark Mark appeared glowing Black and smoking, but Percy neither grimaced nor screamed, staring at the Dark Lord the whole time with hard eyes.
"I will serve you well," Percy intoned, then dropped back into the crowd. Finally, the last of the initiates stood before Lord Voldemort. The pale-face man had an evil smile on his face as he pushed back the hood to reveal-
"Ronald Weasley, one-third of the Golden Trio. I was shocked when you approached me at the beginning of the year," Voldemort spoke to the young man. "Then you used a snake to attack Harry Black; that was truly inspired."
"How did you know it was me?" Ron asked, shocked by the Dark Lord.
"I have my ways of knowing, Master Weasley, but you are well placed in Hogwarts to help deliver some revenge," Voldemort stepping forward to press his wand against the underarm of Ronald Weasley. The Dark Mark appeared glowing Black and smoking, unlike his older brother Ron screamed as he felt awful pain. Finally, he moved away, and the Death Eaters watched Voldemort as he turned to the shadows near the door, a figure emerging.
"Master Black, how nice to see that you have come to your senses," Voldemort spoke sarcastically as the figure took off his hood to reveal Draco Black. Everyone heard the gasp of breath in the complete silence, most knowing it came from Lucius Malfoy. "I do wonder, though, about your loyalty to me. You have been seen in the company of Potter, I mean Black, and your mother has completely denounced her husband. So why should I believe you are my subject?"
"Because I have the cunning of Slytherin, when my mother asked for Sanctuary, I ingrained myself in my cousin's good graces and now I am the most important person here."
"You are impertinent," Voldemort snarled, raising his wand, ready to kill this child.
"I am the person that can make everything happen for you, Lord Voldemort," Draco replied, not taking his grey eyes from Voldemort's red ones. Instead, he looked at the snake-like man before him and grinned, "I can hand you, Harry Black!"
"Master Black, you may have just become my favourite person," Voldemort's face morphed into something akin to a smile. "If you can do what you say, then you will take your place as my right-hand."
"I can," Draco promised as Peter Pettigrew and Lucius Malfoy watched the boy angrily as Voldemort welcomed him back into the group with open arms. Voldemort knew not to mark the pale-headed boy, especially if he was hiding in Harry's inner circle.
Harry and his group of friends had enjoyed the first few days back of the Easter holidays though Sirius referred to the holiday as the Vernal equinox or a time of renewal, rebirth, and new beginnings. On Tuesday evening, Sirius was taking them to a Festival to celebrate the Spring equinox.
"Why do you call it the vernal equinox?" Harry had asked.
"Because it is the beginning of new life. Wizards celebrate the old pagan calendar to an extent; Yule or winter solstice you already saw, then the Spring or vernal equinox in March, Beltane or Walpurgis night in May, the summer solstice in June, the autumn equinox and then Samhain in October," Sirius had replied.
"So why does Hogwarts celebrate the typically Catholic or Muggle holidays?" Harry had asked, knowing Christmas and Easter were more from the Catholic religion.
"That would be Dumbledore; around the Nineteen sixties, the old Headmaster thought it would be better to change the holidays to fit in with Muggle pupils, make them feel more at home," Sirius returned with a frown, then he had changed the subject.
Now Harry was sat on his bed reading up on the traditional Wizard festivals and rituals while Hermione lay on his stomach reading her own book.
"Are you ready to go?" Sirius asked, popping his head through the door.
"Sure, Dad," Harry responded, both teens leaving their books on the bed as they pulled on their shoes, "Is it just you and Remus taking us?"
"Remus is already there," Sirius returned, then left them alone. By the time they got to the parlour room, Sirius and Remus had already gone leaving Harry alone with Hermione. He stared into the fireplace, mesmerised by the dancing flames.
"Are you alright?" Hermione asked, gently touching his shoulder. He jerked, and she realised he had gone incredibly pale; his eyes were dilated. She had never seen him in a panic, but she had heard about his anxiety attacks when he visited the Mind Healer.
"What if the goblins can't help? What if I have to marry Ginny?" Harry suddenly exclaimed, his speech reverting back to what it was like at the beginning of the summer.
"Harry, I have faith in your father, Remus, and the goblins. So, you will not be marrying that bitch, Ginny Weasley. Only over my dead body will she get her slutty little hands on you," Hermione started off softly, then grew angrier as she spoke. Harry was so shocked by her outburst; he was able to control his breathing and calm himself. He took a few minutes to compose himself, but he felt better already.
"Thank you, my Lady Rendlesham," He slid his arms around her, kissing the woman of dreams thoroughly.
At Gringotts, first Harry, then Hermione emerged into the private waiting room used for the most important Houses. Sirius and Remus were already settled on black leather sofas whispering.
"What took you so long?" Sirius looked at his son, then the fire roared, and Hermione entered. Remus could not contain his laughter as he looked over Harry and Hermione.
"I think they were brushing up on some skills," Remus roared. Harry narrowed his eyes but had never seen his pseudo-uncle so relaxed so let it go.
"Maglugg will see you now," a goblin announced. Remus was still chuckling when they entered the door with Maglugg's name on it. Duggat was in there, of course, standing just to the side of the desk.
"Afternoon, Maglugg, Duggat," Sirius greeted the two goblins casually as he settled in one of the chairs. Remus, Harry, and Hermione took the other three chairs in the room.
"Firstly, let me just congratulate you on your Betrothal; you make a beautiful couple," Maglugg announced. Hermione blushed, but the goblin genuinely liked the pair. After more than six months of dealing with the Black Heir, he had really come to like Harry.
"Thank you," Harry replied, looking at Hermione with a slight grin on his face.
"Secondly, we think we have discovered a way to break the betrothal contract with Miss Weasley," Maglugg suggested.
"Really?" Hermione leant forward on her chair.
"There may be a complication," Harry looked at Remus and Sirius, "During the defence class before Christmas, I noticed Ginny fiddling with something on her finger. I did a check with my skills,finding that there was some kind of light like a line going from the object to my core."
"It is a complication," Maglugg looked suddenly furious. He turned to Duggat, speaking angrily in a language Harry did not understand. They exchanged words, both talking rapidly. Finally, Maglugg looked at the group assembled. "It seems Duggat missed a vital item when he did an inventory of the Potter Vaults; it appears from your description that Miss Weasley has put on the Potter Betrothal Ring."
"Does this change things?" Remus asked. Maglugg shuffled through some parchment papers.
"Ah, -here yes, the contract has updated," the goblin spoke to himself before brandishing the parchment. "We took the liberty of securing copies of the contracts from the Ministry and our own Records. As Harry Black, you have a contract with Miss Hermione Granger to be betrothed though this is not binding until the day you marry. However, the Black Betrothal ring has been activated, which does bind the pair together. As Harry Potter, signed by your legal guardian, you are contracted to Miss Ginevra Weasley, strengthened using the Potter Betrothal ring."
"So, what does it mean?" Harry asked, confused.
"At this time, you have entered into a contract with two young women. Families used to have two or more wives when there were more than two hereditary names involved." Harry looked at Remus, and Sirius bewildered. Hermione was chewing it over in her head.
"Let me explain, Harry, say, for example, a Black was to marry a Longbottom who was the last of their family then the potential heir would take on the Longbottom name to continue the family line. However, the Black family being dominant, would need the first-born son to take over the line, so would write another contract with a family with lots of children, marrying the second-born daughter with the caveat she produces an Heir to the Black Family."
"So, in this case, Ginny is the daughter who would produce an heir for the 'Potter' line as stated in the contract," Hermione held a piece of parchment in her hand, "while I would produce an Heir for the Black line."
"I sort of see. However, I only want one person," Harry looked lovingly at Hermione.
"In legal terms, Miss Weasley's child, if born, could inherit monies and all the titles that come with being the Potter heir. The Blacks are one of the oldest families investing in Gringotts's from the beginning. Still, they take precedence over all other families in law and magic," Maglugg explained, getting to the punchline, "if you were to marry before the eleventh of August nineteen-ninety-six, the magic that binds the Potter contract will be null and void."
"Why the eleventh of August nineteen-ninety-six?" Sirius asked, but Hermione had already figured it out.
"Ginny's fifteen birthday. Until recently, fifteen was the majority age. Even though seventeen is now the majority age in the Wizarding World, I think fifteen is still locked in the laws," Hermione recited from the books she had read. "I'm guessing once she reaches fifteen, the contract will be Ironclad."
"You would be correct, Miss Granger. However, to break the bindings legally and magically, you would need to be wed before the eleventh of August," Maglugg confirmed.
"Well then, we will have to organise a summer wedding," Remus suggested. Harry frowned, then looked at Hermione.
"I love you, Hermione, and want you to be in my life forever, but if it is too soon for you to be married, just say the word," Harry looked earnestly at her.
"I am not letting you come close to getting engaged to that ginger-haired little weasel," Hermione told him, stunning the rest of the group. She saw their faces laughing at their dropped jaws.
"Alright then, the second of June it is then," Sirius announce abruptly.
"Why the second of June?" Harry wondered.
"Because that was the day your mother and I were going to get married," Sirius answered. He got a smile from his son, which turned into a massive grin.
"OK, second of June it is, but that's only three months away," Hermione was looking anxious now.
"Do not worry. Narcissa is the queen of this sort of thing. She will have you organised in no time," Sirius replied smugly.
"Great," Harry yelled, grabbing Hermione swinging her around to hear her delightful giggles. Remus and Sirius led on fondly.
"Before you go, not to put water on the fire, but to remind you, should you not get married, then Black/Potter inheritance will be liable for a Bride price of 1 million Galleons," Duggat spoke.
"That is steep," Hermione goggled at the amount.
"It is a certain percentage of the Groom's accounts, and since Lord Rendlesham's is now connected to the Blacks, the magic will take that into account," Duggat explained.
"I bet you that was Mrs Weasley; remember she never liked me in the Fourth Year when the Press ran those articles featuring me as your girlfriend then some kind of harlot," Hermione snarled. Sirius did not know what to say, so he looked at his clock.
"Is everything ready for our meeting?" He tried to turn the subject away to calm down the enraged witch.
"Yes, your Grace."
"What meeting?" Harry looked from his Father to his Uncle.
"We have arranged a meeting with the Selwyn's, hopefully, to arrange an Alliance," Sirius explained. They were led from Maglugg's office through the hallways; goblins in armour watched as they marched past several doorways. They were then shown into what appeared to be a conference room set up with a table and comfortable chairs. On a sideboard were silver goblets and a silver pourer. Remus went over, pouring the drinks for each of the four who immediately came to get one.
"Ahh, elderflower wine, delightful," Sirius praised the drink, settling in at the head of the table. Harry sat to his right while Remus to his left, then Hermione took a seat next to Harry. Five minutes later, the door opened again; Sirius immediately got to his feet, followed by the other three. First to enter was an older man, who could have been anywhere between sixty and a hundred years old. Behind him was the Lady Selwyn, who he met during the summer, followed by two girls. The eldest was the same age as Harry and Hermione but whippet-thin with dark hair and alert blue eyes. The other girl was Danica Selwyn, but she was so utterly different from her older sister.
"Harry, Hermione, Remus, permit me to introduce you to Lord Selwyn, the twelfth Marquess of Gloucester. Lord Selwyn, this my son and heir Harry Black, the Marquess of Rendlesham, his betrothed Hermione Granger and the Steward of House Black, Remus Lupin," Sirius introduced his family to the older man who nodded at them all politely.
"This my daughter and heir, Alwyn, the Countess of Stroud, who I believe you have already met. These are my granddaughters Lady Seraphina and Danica," the man presented his family. Danica was observing Harry.
"Well met," Harry bowed to the older man, then the woman and girls in order.
"I will be perfectly blunt. I have been starting a third side to this war. However, though Dumbledore has disappeared, he still has his followers willing to do his work. He is still communicating with them, I am sure," Sirius laid his cards on the table, metaphorically speaking. "Voldemort also has a large faction of followers, but there are those that do not want to bow down a half-blood maniac, but nor do they want to openly declare for the 'light' side. Therefore, I am proposing an alliance between our families, including trade."
"What makes you think I would want to join an Alliance?" Theodore Selwyn asked, leaning back on the chair he occupied. "How do you know I have not promised my family to the Dark Lord?"
"Voldemort is pressing forward; this time, he will not accept neutrality. Anybody he deems unworthy, whether they are pureblood, half-blood or muggle-born, he will kill without hesitation; my son has already fought him several times and has seen how depraved the man has become," Sirius returned. The old man turned to look at the boy, regarding him as the dark-haired boy squirmed in his seat. Several minutes went by without a word from either party, but just as Sirius went to speak again, the elder Selwyn spoke up.
"I have heard rumours that you have faced the Dark Lord several times. Is it true you faced him after the unfortunate incident as a baby?" Selwyn asked. Sirius looked ready to speak harshly, but Remus put a hand on his arm.
"I have faced him four times, Sir. Once as a baby, the second time I faced his Soul who had possessed a Hogwarts professor, the third time I met his spirit and defeated him. Finally, the last time he was resurrected, yet I came out alive," Harry answered as though reporting the news.
"Before this year, you were seen as mediocre, lucky to win against the Dark Lord. Now with your fathers' backing, I have heard you are both taking the halls of Wizengamot by storm," Selwyn prodded. Remus once again held Sirius back.
"That is the second time you have called Voldemort, The Dark Lord. Are you really one of his arse-kissers, a pure-blood lord on his hands and knees kissing the hem of his robe?" Harry asked, sitting back with a relaxed look. Now Danica looked like she was about to spit feathers as Selwyn's glare suddenly turned to laughter.
"Oh, I like you, boy. So, Danica tells me you are leading the young Alliance at Hogwarts? That you are allied with the former Malfoy Brat," Selwyn spoke fondly. "And for your information, I would never bow down to a monster. Selwyn's have more pride than bending to a wannabe pure-blood sycophant."
"Good. Yes, we have had several meetings to discuss the future. So far, it is only the former Potter Alliance. Still, in the next meeting, we shall be hosting the Greengrass sisters among a few others who have joined the Black-Longbottom Alliance," Harry answered, sounding like the perfect pureblood son. "Draco is a difficult case, he may have joined the alliance, but he has doubts."
"In that case, we can pen a deal today, and I shall join your alliance," Selwyn replied, then looked to Sirius. "I am joining because I believe that young man to be a leader, I shall assist you in any way, but I ask that Danica is taken into the House of Black as a Ward. I know that the practice has been out of date for many years, but I feel it may benefit her and your family,"
"That is interesting; I will be happy to accept. Now that Miss Granger is betrothed to my son, she will need a lady-in-waiting that might assist her in our traditions and ways," Sirius agreed.
They spent a little longer negotiating different deals while Harry soon got bored, though Hermione watched with bright eyes. Finally, after a couple of hours and lunch, they bid each other goodbye, having signed a parchment with the deal firmly in place.
Chapter 27: Twenty-Seven: The Balance between light
AN- Apparently there was an issue with formatting and some names doubled up, I have 'hopefully' fixed this now.
The Spring Equinox ritual was borrowed from Ostara 2018- The Rebirthing Ritual on The Gypsy Thread. Though parts were adapted and added to for the story line.
"Are you ready to go?" Sirius asked, stepping into the room. All the teens and one pre-teen were seated in the room ready to go to this festival that Sirius had told them about. But, of course, Draco and Neville knew all about it, and Hermione had read up everything there was to know in the Black Library.
"Are you sure we will not have to get naked?" Harry asked nervously for perhaps the eighteenth time. His uncle used to mutter about weirdo pagans when they appeared on the news and how they liked to dance naked.
"Afraid you will scare the children?" Draco drawled, before joking, "Maybe they will think you are one of them."
"You will be fine; there is no naked dancing," Hermione reassured her fiancée as Neville hit the blond on the arm, who grinned at his friend. Who would have thought he would be friends with Longbottom and Granger? Harry nodded, slightly mollified as he smothered his hand down the white robes they had been given to wear. Next, Remus and Narcissa appeared; the woman looked radiant for being nvearly nine months pregnant.
"We will meet you there," Remus nodded to his best friend, Narcissa took his arm, and they disappeared with a pop. Sirius held out a ratty bit of newspaper, offering it up to the teens in the room. Harry, Hermione, Neville, Draco, and Cepheus each laid a finger on the bit of newspaper. The older man looked at his watch, counting down silently before Harry felt the hook behind his navel, and suddenly he was whirling through a maelstrom before letting go and landing face down on some grass. Harry was not the only one as Hermione, Neville, and Cepheus joined him on the floor. He looked up to see Sirius and Draco looking dignified. The four on the floor got, and Harry had his first chance to look around.
They appeared to be in a field with hundreds of people milling around. A couple of bonfires were lit, but Harry could see what appeared to be a large earthwork mound in the dying sunlight.
"Where are we?" Hermione asked, ever the inquisitive mind.
"Arbor Low and Gib Hill, in the Peak District," spoke a harried voice, "Now, move along; we have someone else coming behind you."
"Rude," Draco muttered quietly as Sirius shepherded them away from the landing zone to one of the bonfires where Remus and Narcissa joined them.
"So, what is this place?" Harry noticed a sign which described the landmarks; at the bottom was The Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission that managed historic buildings and places. Remus noticed where the boy was looking and chuckled.
"That is a Muggle government agency, though we have some of our own people embedded in the organisation, they look after a lot of important historical places. Muggles only see ruins of a Henge, very similar to Stonehenge." Remus explained. "However, there is an actual Henge used by traditional Wizardkind for our rituals."
"It is disdainful how they still allow muggles to roam around some of our sacred sites," an arrogant voice spoke from behind them. They turned around to see a tall, elegant-looking man with meticulous black hair. On his arm was a woman who held her nose in the air liked she smelled something unpleasant. Surprisingly, a cowered looking Theo stood behind them.
"Geoffrey Nott, always a pleasure to see you," Sirius stood up straighter. Harry noticed he had taken on the air of a 'pureblood,' almost sounding smarmy. "You know my son and heir, Harry, with his betrothed Hermione. This is my other son Cepheus. And their friends, the Marquess of Grossmont, Neville and a Son of Black, Draco."
"Yes, this is my wife Drusilla and our son Theodore," Nott introduced his son and wife almost casually. Harry noticed Draco watching Theo, so he turned to look at the boy while his father talked business with Nott Senior. Theo was staring at the ground shuffling his feet, but Harry noticed his hand was shaking. He analysed the lanky dark-haired teen and concluded the boy had been crucio'd recently.
"We shall have to move on, but it was an absolute pleasure," Geoffrey spoke up, every syllable dripping with poison. Then, as the Nott family left, Harry explained what he had seen and why he thought the boy had been under the Cruciatus curse. Finally, Remus, Narcissa and Sirius had to explain they could not interfere with another Lord's business, but they would look at a possible removal of Theo if they could.
As the night wore on, Harry was surprised at how many so-called 'dark-aligned' people were at the festival. Sirius explained this was a sacred space where peace reigned, and fights were forbidden. He was also surprised to find the music was not all folk music, but quite a bit of modern music.
Around Midnight, they were called to the mound, where Harry found himself in a great stone circle similar to Stonehenge. Massive monolithic stone created a solid semi-circle with an altar sat in the centre of the rocks. A ring had been drawn by some kind of white powder; Remus whispered that it was salt. Harry noticed the four candles at varying points in distinct colours: Red, Yellow, Green and Blue. In the circle's centre was a large white candle with three wicks, and behind that stood a woman with bare feet smiling at the crowd, her blonde hair tumbling down around her shoulders. Everyone had crammed in around the edge of the stone circle though Harry had a prime spot for viewing the ritual.
"Quiet, please let us begin as the new day begins, and a fresh dawn brings new life to the world in time for spring," the woman spoke with a deep, fruity voice that drew Harry in and made him feel safe and warm. "Let it be called, let it be cast, this sacred circle with no present, nor past, a meeting place, a spiritual space. Join us as we call the Quarters."
The woman looked to the East and took an incense stick and lighter to the yellow candle. "I call to the great spirits of the East, where the garden of hospitality is found-share with us the great wisdom to help determine how our purpose is meant to serve others."
"Great Wisdom," the crowd murmured as the woman lit the yellow candle. The woman then moved to the lower candle, a red coloured one.
"I call to the great spirits of the South where the garden of inspiration is found-share with us the man gifts of transformation through the healing powers of music, verse, and creativity."
"Great Transformation," the crowd intoned as the woman lit the red candle. She then moved to the left handle candle, which was coloured blue.
"I call to the great spirits of the West, where the garden of knowledge is found-share with us the skill to unlock that which already exists inside of us and also to never cease in our quest to learn,"
"Great Knowledge," even Harry joined in this time as the woman lit the blue candle, then finally moved to the topmost candle, which was green.
"I call to the great spirits of the North, where the garden of being is found-share with us the skills and disciplines necessary to meet life's challenges."
"Great discipline," the crowd intoned finally as the woman lit the green candle.
"Great Goddess, on the night of perfect balance, we call upon you to join and honour us as we gather in fellowship. Tonight, we celebrate the last sunset of winter and the first day of the spring with the understanding that all things are dependent on the turning of the great wheel," The blonde spoke again. "Hail Great Goddess and welcome all who have gathered."
"Hail Great Goddess," the crowd shouted loudly into the night. Harry tried not to giggle, as this seemed like hippie-type nonsense.
"We come together once again to celebrate the turning of the great wheel and the transition from the cold of winter to the warming renewal of spring. It is a time of balance in the world and marks the time when the light grows, and the darkness shrinks. It is the dawn of new growth in the natural world," the priestess spoke. Everyone seemed enraptured as Harry felt Hermione take his hand. "Green shoots will erupt from the once-frozen ground; the sounds of newly hatched birds and recently birthed animals fills the forests and glens; thawing ice and shifting soil give birth to new streams and rivers, and that which has been dormant now awakens to flourish once again.
Our patron Deity on this night is Eostre. She is the Celtic goddess of Spring and the Dawn. She is a fertility Goddess, and her legacy is symbolised by a hare and an egg, the former a symbol of fertility and the latter of fertile purity. She touches new life every year, including those which have chosen to be reborn. She reminds us that brighter days are on the horizon and that now is the time to embrace spiritual, emotional, and physical growth."
She stopped for a moment as someone began a low steady beat on a drum. Harry looked at Hermione giddily, almost like he was drunk.
"Springtime means many different things to many people, but we all agree that more than anything, it symbolised rebirth and renewal. Tonight, we will open the doorway to growth by experiencing a spiritual rebirthing." She began to sing a soft song as power seemed to well up through the crowd; Harry felt the magic as it began to grow and unfurl around everyone. He wondered if people knew they were renewing the magic of the land with these rituals, as he instinctively knew what was happening.
Today is the time of the Spring Equinox
When Light and Darkness are equal.
Tomorrow, the dark will yield to the light.
The Days shall grow in length.
All that is green will once again be revealed.
Life which has lain dormant shall flourish.
All around we shall see that which is new.
The earth welcomes new beginnings.
Tonight, we too shall be given the opportunity.
To reinvigorate that which has lain dormant.
An opportunity to be reborn.
A chance to step forward and grow.
Harry noticed that all around, every wizard or witch had a small line of gold trailing into the earth. The priestess had a molten circle of gold at her centre with a solid bar travelling into the crowd.
"Now, there are some newcomers amongst us, children and adults wanting to be reborn with spring. Please come forth and kneel before me," the priestess offered. Children from six to twelve were ushered forward by their parents. Then, three or four adults moved forward to kneel as Sirius nudged Harry, Hermione, and Cepheus, who suddenly found themselves at the head of the line kneeling before the priestess in white. She appeared older, closer up, Harry thought as he knelt.
"Do you wish to shift your consciousness from the darkness to the light?" She asked. Silence followed for a few moments until Hermione nudged him.
"Y-yes," Harry responded, there were a few chuckles from the surrounding crowd. Finally, the priestess sprinkled salt over his head.
"With the blessings of the earth, you are given new roots to anchor yourself as you grow," She smiled at the crowd around him before picking something else up, "Do you wish to free yourself from the storms that seek to limit the heights you can achieve?"
"Yes," Harry replied with more confidence. The priestess then smudges incense on his forehead.
"With the blessing of the air, the winds have cleared the path for your spirit," the woman blessed him, then reached for a lit candle. "Do you wish to cleanse all remaining aspects of negativity in your life?"
"Yes," Harry answered. She circled the candle above his head twice.
"With the blessings of fire, all negativity is cleansed and banished, leaving you surrounded with heat, light and warmth," She told Harry, then looked solemnly at him. "Do you wish to be reborn?"
"Yes," Harry spoke up the loudest, his magic falling away into the ground to renew and regrow. The priestess sprinkled water from a chalice over his head.
"With the blessings of this sacred water, sourced from the deepest and most ancient wells of the world, you are given a new life and a new pathway of your own choosing," Harry felt a slight tug in his forehead, which immediately disappeared, so he ignored it as the priestess moved on to Hermione, performing the same four questions and gestures. The priestess moved down the line doing the same ritual with everyone until once again, she was stood in the centre and began to chant.
Rise and Cast off your darkness!
A new light shines in each of you!
Your spirit has been Blessed!
All things are in perfect balance!
As it was in the beginning, so it shall be once again!
Blessed Be!
Harry felt energy flow through him as he returned to his place by his father's side with Hermione holding his hand while his other arm around Ceph's shoulder.
"Now we are going to close the circle," the priestess moved to the green candle, "Great spirits of the north-we know that life will continually challenge each of us in our own way-remind us that the power to overcome exists within each of us!"
"Remind us!" the crowd chanted as she extinguished the green candle. The priestess moved towards the blue candle.
"Great spirits of the West-leave us with the seeds of knowledge planted firmly in our minds and the talent to coax them into being!"
"Stimulate us!" the crowd returned as she doused the blue candle. She then moved towards the red one.
"Great spirits of the South- as the echoes of verse and note still hangs upon the winds, leave us with wide-open avenues to grow and develop our creativity!"
"Inspire us!" Everyone shouted with glee as the woman smothered the blue candle before finally turning to the last of the coloured candles.
"Great spirits of the East- thank you for the gift of purpose so that we may never forget that the greatest good we can achieve is often through our work in helping others!"
"Encourage us!" Harry and the others all called out. The priestess doused the yellow candle before picking up the Goddess candle.
"Great Goddess, we have been blessed in so many ways; the fertile earth that awaits the new seeds; the warmth of the nurturing sun; refreshing cool, clean water; and the fellowship of those around us. Thank you for your wisdom and love. Thank you for sharing this night with us in our sacred space," the priestess slowly extinguished the Goddess candle, then uttered, "The circle is open, but never broken!"
Huzzah," The crowd cheered, and the whole group began to dance as the music picked up from somewhere. Harry thought everyone was a little drunk on the magic of the area as even he felt buzzed. They moved around meeting up with people around the bonfires. Finally, Sirius was talking with Cyrus Greengrass as Neville and Draco were talking to Daphne and her sister. Harry decided to experiment and closed his eyes, quickly finding that 'something' that helped with the Empathy. Opening his eyes, he looked around, seeing the entire site sparkling with light like early morning dew. Then red hair caught his attention, and Harry looked the group over, spotting a slimy black line emanating from one person's arm. After seeing Snape with this, he knew it was the Dark Mark, given to Voldemort's Death Eaters. Knocked out of his ability, he realised his former best friend, Ron, had taken the Dark Mark.
"Are you positive, Lady Bones?" Bill asked, taking his eyes away from the Floo. Bill had set up his office in one of his dad's sheds. His dad's Muggle artefacts littered the room, some broken and others gathering dust on them. A yellow duck-like thing sat in the corner.
"The evidence does not lie; we are just considering whether we will charge your mother as well," Amelia Bones head replied from within the Floo that had been set up.
"Do what you have to, Lady Bones," Bill replied with a sigh. As Amelia bid him goodbye, he sat back in his chair then the Floo flared back into its normal red flames. The tall redhead was not sure what to do? The old customs and traditions dictated what came next, but he had his father to consider. How did it come to this at only twenty-five? Bill heaved a sigh as he got up, stretching his lanky legs. Today was the first day of spring, so his decision seemed to be the right to make to give the Weasley family a rebirth, of sorts. The man took another deep breath before heading back into the burrow.
"Charlie, can you come down? There is a family meeting in the kitchen," Bill called to his younger brother, who had been visiting for the Spring Equinox. Then, as his thoughts turned to Percy, who had turned from them, he shook his head.
"Family Meeting, Family meeting in the Kitchen," Bill called out as he entered the house. Molly was already in the kitchen, and soon after, Arthur had joined them. Bill took a seat at the head of the worn farm table with his father next to him. Not long after, he heard the thundering of several pairs of feet on the stairs. Soon the tall twins, Fred, and George, had joined them, followed closely by the youngest Weasley's, Ron and Ginny. Finally, Charlie came stomping through the house, putting his broomstick at the door. He had a big grin on his weather-beaten face, and his hair was wind-swept.
"What's this all about?" Arthur cleared his throat, concerned.
"For the longest time, our family have not followed the old traditions, and as such, we let our seat on the Wizengamot go, especially after grandfather gambled away the former Weasley fortune," Bill began. "I have recently taken over the headship, as you know, and made some great deals with the Black Alliance."
"Well, if you are going to boast about the Black's, I'm out of here," Ron drawled, scraping his chair back and getting up.
"Sit down!" Bill spoke sharply. Ron was so shocked, he immediately sat down. Molly looked scandalised at her eldest son's behaviour. Arthur had a slight grin on his face. "In a week, Ron faces a trial over the Potioning of Heir of Black's betrothed- "
"That little Muggle-born strumpet was leading him on; Harry deserves better," Molly spoke up, interrupting Bill. Ginny seemed to be hiding her face as her mother clearly meant her. That changed Bill's decision slightly.
"Be quiet, mother!" once again, Bill snapped, astonishing his mother into silence. "I have begun to make amends with the Black Family, but your behaviour was truly reprehensible, especially the use of charms and potions."
"Dumbledore suggested it," Ron whined.
"Well, he will have his day in court, too," Bill returned. "However, your fate is a bit clearer. I have made the decision to cast you from the family. I remember the old ways, which dad taught me, and I believe there is no hope of you changing."
"You cannot do that; he is my baby," Molly whaled. Bill ignored her as he looked at his outraged brother. The Twins looked dumbfounded, Ginny had her mouth hung open, and even Arthur appeared a little surprised. "Arthur, do something!"
"No! William is the head of the house now, so even if I wanted to, I could not do anything," Arthur replied firmly.
"I will be filing the paperwork with the relevant Departments today; you will have until the trial, then you will no longer be a Weasley. After that, your name will revert to Mother's maiden name until you marry, then you can take your other halves name," Bill explained.
"You-you cannot do that to me!" Ron sputtered, outraged.
"I can, and have, Ronald. But, after the meeting, I will ask you to leave the premises. I will arrange to have any items moved to wherever you stay." Bill's tone brooked no argument. Then he ignored his brother and turned to his mother. "Unfortunately, it has come to my attention that many of the potions Ron used were provided by you, mother."
"That's a downright lie," Molly now stuttered, going white.
"We know how good you are potions, especially love potions, so it is not unreasonable. As it is, I was told letters from you to Dumbledore clearly show you conspired with him to remove the Potter wealth from Harry." Bill answered.
"Is it true? You provided the potions to Ron!" Arthur asked. Though he did not really doubt his soon-to-be ex-wife was capable.
"Of course, I did, you ingrate, we could have been rich like the Malfoy's, but no, you like tinkering around with those stupid Muggle toys. I only wanted to get that Mudblood bitch away from Harry so Ginny would be free to marry him." Molly showed her true colours as she let fly at her husband.
"I am immediately dissolving your marriage and kicking you out. I want you the hell out of our home," Bill stood up, glaring at his mother.
"I am not sure I could have taken much more playing the fawning housewife," Molly replied. "Come on, Ginny, let's go."
"Do not move an inch, Gin. I did not say you could take Ginny with you; only you and Ron will be leaving," Bill told her.
"But but Ginny is my daughter. She should be with her mother," Molly suddenly appeared upset.
"She has been influenced by your poison long enough, mother. Now I want the pair of you out before I call the Wards to forcibly eject you," William told her. The redhead woman somehow had her wand in her hand before anyone could blink, but they did not notice Bill also had his wand. "Do not do this, mother. I do not want to hurt you."
"You will never amount to anything. Marrying a common creature. You will never be a worthy Lord," She spat at him before stalking from the house with Ron in tow. Everyone looked at each other, astonished, before Bill approached Ginny.
"I am sorry for what you have been through with our mother. I never realised how deep her poison ran, but I do not honestly think you are in love with Harry. You were a means to an end for her," Bill hugged his little sister as they began to talk over what would happen next.
Easter break or the Spring Equinox has Harry had taken to call it had shot by with Harry having loads of fun with his family and friends. They had played quidditch, even attended a quidditch match. Sirius had even got an international Portkey, and they had gone to Tenerife for the weekend with a day spent at Siam Park, the world's best waterpark.
Now though, he waited in the Black office waiting for the Wizengamot session and trial to begin. His thoughts were interrupted as a knock sounded on the door. Remus went to open it, showing Bill Weasley in black robes, lined with red. He had the Weasley crest over his breast. Bill took in Sirius sitting behind his desk, Remus and Narcissa, before spotting Harry and Hermione.
"May I come in and speak to you?" He asked, directing his attention to Sirius. Remus allowed the man in before closing the door firmly behind him.
"How can I help, Bill?" Sirius asked.
"I wanted to apologise again for the behaviour of my brother, especially towards your heir and his betrothed," Bill spoke rather formally.
"Water under the bridge; we have discussed this before," Sirius replied.
"Well, I wanted to let you know that Molly and Ronald have been expelled from House Weasley," Bill returned. Sirius immediately sat up and stared at the younger man.
"What does that mean?" Hermione asked.
"It means that they have been stripped of the name Weasley. So, any family magic that Ron might have had will have been stripped by Lady Magic herself," Remus explained.
"Both have reverted to the name Prewett, my mother's maiden name," Bill informed them.
"She was not a Slytherin for nothing," Narcissa muttered.
"I thought Molly Weasley was a Gryffindor," Hermione spoke up.
"Oh no, she was a Slytherin, which was why everyone was surprised when she got with the consummate Gryffindor, Arthur," Narcissa returned.
"He was the heir to the Weasley fortune, a prominent family back then," Sirius said darkly, before shaking himself, "I am sorry, Bill, that was uncalled for."
"I am come to much the same conclusions myself," Bill returned. "But the real reason I have come today is because I have dissolved the marriage contract between Ginny and Harry."
"What?" Hermione and Harry both said at once.
"Mother signed under her married name, so Magic recognised I was the Head of House and could dissolve the contract," Bill explained.
"That is terrific news," Harry exclaimed, hugging his future wife.
"How did Ginny take it?" Hermione asked, concerned for their former friend.
"Upset, but Ginny realised Mother had been manipulating her, her whole life. With the help of the Mind Healer, we will have her acting like a normal teen in no time," Bill said with a smile.
"Thank you, Bill, we are certainly obliged to you. If you need anything, you may call on me, and I will try to help in any way possible," Sirius told the man genuinely and shook his hand. He was about to speak again when a knock on the door stopped him.
"Your Grace, the Wizengamot is getting ready for its session," an unknown voice told them.
"Once again, thank you." Remus opened the door for the redhead as they followed him out. Sirius was the last out closing the door behind himself. Bill went one way down the corridor, followed by Sirius and Harry as Remus, Narcissa, and Hermione went the other way towards the Wizengamot chambers. As Harry walked through the Lord's door, he could tell the chambers were busy. The galleries were filling up, the front half of one reserved and filled with the Press. The rest of the galleries were filled with spectators. He took note that Dumbledore had decided to keep his head down. Harry took his seat at the feet of his father, getting a nod from old man Selwyn. Neville and Daphne were also at the feet of their guardian or parent.
A gavel banged down on the desk, quietening down everyone talking. Tiberius Ogden must have noticed all the Lords were in and settled.
"Good morning, Lords and Ladies, Heads of Departments and the public, welcome to the first session of spring on this day Twenty-seventh of March Nineteen Ninety-six," Tiberius Ogden, the chief Warlock told the packed room. Ogden was at the centre podium with Fudge to his left and Rufus Scrimgeour on his right in Madam Bones stead. Harry noticed Madam Bones was sat with Ted at the 'Prosecution' table. On the one side was the full Wizengamot, the four occupied chairs of the Ancient and Noble Houses with their Heirs sat at their feet.
Behind them were the remaining Ancient houses, which now included the immensely proud Bill Weasley. Behind them were the Noble families. The Order of Merlin members was next (without former Chief Warlock Dumbledore in his seat), then finally the heads of each major department. The rest of the room was made up of the public, with one section dedicated to the Press.
"I will remind you all this is a Wizengamot session. Only those of the Wizengamot or experts invited by Wizengamot members may speak. If the public galleries cannot control themselves, I will make this a closed session," Ogden warned them sternly, "Now, Scribe, do you have any public announcements?"
"Only to say, the Muggle-born Act of 1995 has officially been ratified today so has come into law. The Muggle-born Registration Commission will be contacting the relevant parties over the upcoming weeks," A new scribe read out the note he had been given.
"We will discuss the meaning of that later," Sirius told him quietly, then settled back into the chair.
"Any other notifications?" Tiberius asked.
"No, Sir."
"Good, then we shall move on to the Trial of Ronald Bilius Weasley," Ogden announced.
"Excuse me, Chief Warlock," a voice interrupted the older Warlock.
"Yes, you are?" the old man frowned at the interruption.
"Warren Burke, Sir, I am representing, ah Ronald for the trial," the snake-oil salesman looked like a rat, Harry thought.
"Mr Burke, why did you interrupt me?" the Chief Warlock asked.
"Ronald is no longer called Weasley. He was disinherited and is now called Prewett." Burke explained, as slick as an oil spill.
"Ok, then. Let the trial of Ronald Bilius Prewett commence; bring in the prisoner." Harry watched as Ronald swaggered in, an air of confidence surrounding him. He was wearing orange robes, but his hands were free until he settled in the criminal char. The chains rattled and secured him to the chair. His smile dropped slightly, but he looked around as though he knew he was getting off.
"Mr Scrimgeour, please would you read out the charges," the Chief Warlock asked.
"Ronald Prewett is accused of Line Theft, administering Potions and Charms to a Muggle-born witch, and attempted line theft of an Ancient and Noble house. He is also charged with joining the terrorist organisation known as the Death Eaters," as Scrimgeour read out the charges; a hush filled the room until there were gasps at the Death Eater charge.
"I must protest. I was not informed of the last charge," Burke shouted.
"That was added this morning."
"Then I ask for a continuance, so I may properly defend my client."
"No, once the boy has pleaded, I will give two hours, then we shall resume the trial," Ogden returned, annoyed at the man's interruption.
"Thank you, Sir."
"Now on all the charges, how does he plead?"
"Not guilty, Sir- "Burke began to speak but was disrupted as Ron spoke up.
"I only joined the Death Eaters because Percy dragged me there," the redhead tried to appear sullen, but Harry knew it was all an act.
"Shut up," Burke told his client.
"Avada Kedavra," A voice emerged from the gallery as a green light shot across the Wizengamot.