Chapter 17
Dumbledore's Bad Day, Day 2
Author's Note: The response to Chapter 16 was amazing! As of publishing this chapter, it has the highest number of reviews, other than the very first chapter. Thank you such a great response to a chapter I thought wasn't up to the standards I hoped it would be. Hopefully this chapter lives up to those same standards!
I feel I need to apologize for Rita Skeeter's use of First Person style whilst writing the article in this chapter. I couldn't figure out a way to word the article without using this style. This is probably the only time I'll ever write an article in First Person like this.
The surname Blishwick is one of the many surnames seen on the various Potter Wiki websites. I've used it in a couple of stories before this one. The name has some importance in this chapter, and perhaps will have more importance in the future of the story.
The Winter Solstice Wizengamot Session is something I've used in a couple of stories as well. It is mentioned in this chapter, and it will be seen in the story. However, in this story, it won't be as dramatic as it was in Ilvermorny Champion. In 1994, the Winter Solstice was on December 21st. So, it takes place time-wise, a week after the events of the previous chapter.
Warning: Dumbledore Bashing
(Tuesday, December 15th, 1994)
Knowing that the Headmaster would likely request their presence – or Harry's at the very least – in his office, and possibly before class, Harry and Hermione decided to get an early breakfast that morning. However, as they stepped into the Great Hall, they found that a lot of students also had the same idea. Perhaps they hoped Rita Skeeter would have another article, maybe a follow-up of yesterday's article about the Second Task. It was known that the Headmaster had spent much of Monday in the Ministry of Magic, likely doing damage control due to Skeeter's article. So it was assumed there would be something just as juicy in the Daily Prophet today.
Harry smiled at that thought, as he and Hermione made their way over to the Ravenclaw Table again. There would definitely be something juicy in the Daily Prophet. But it wasn't just going to be the aftermath of the previous day's article – nor would that article be the most important.
Harry and Hermione found an unexpected additional Gryffindor sitting with Padma and Luna, as they sat down. Neville Longbottom was sitting next to Luna, his date to the Yule Ball.
"Morning girls, Neville," Harry said, as he and Hermione began filling their plates.
"Good morning," Neville said, after the two Ravenclaws greeted the newcomers, "Luna was just telling me about your problems with the Second Task, Harry."
"Yeah, she did mention that I should speak to you," Harry said, "I was planning on coming to you about that, yesterday. But with the exams and everything, Hermione and I have been rather busy."
"Not to mention the rumors about your part in Viktor Krum being banned from the library," Padma said, grinning. "You couldn't tell us whether or not you two did have a part in that, did you?"
"I did not know you were as much into gossip as your sister, Miss Patil!" Hermione commented, with a grin.
Padma rolled her eyes. "I'm going to allow that change of subject. Keep your secrets, Miss Granger!"
Harry cleared his throat. "So, Neville, here's the thing. I need to spend about an hour underwater, while swimming in the Hogwarts Lake for the Second Task. Any ideas you have that can help me? Anything, big or small, could be a lot of help."
"Well, you could always use Gillyweed!" Neville said, his eyes brightening as he grinned.
"Gillyweed?" Harry asked.
"Yeah, you put a clump of it in your mouth and swallow it," Neville said; he rubbed a hand against his throat, "You'll get gills, in your throat, like a fish for about an hour or so. Your hands, legs and feet will transform in some way - similar to Merpeople, though you won't get a tail exactly - to assist you in swimming too. The length of time has been debated, however, when it comes to freshwater versus saltwater…"
"Where can I get this Gillyweed?" Harry asked, before Neville was lost in his thoughts.
"Well, some apothecaries might have some," Neville said, "But it won't be fresh, unfortunately. The fresher, the better. It will guarantee you getting more time to spend underwater. There might be some on the shores of the Hogwarts Lake. I tell you what. I'll do some exploring along the shores and see if I can find anything."
"You don't need to do it anytime soon, mate," Harry said, "Especially if I need it fresh. I just need it by the day of the Second Task."
Neville shrugged. "Doesn't hurt to make sure it is there now, you know. If it isn't, you might need to figure out how to get some fresh samples from somewhere else."
"True," Harry said, "Thanks, Neville. Thanks a lot!"
Neville blushed. "You're welcome, Harry. Oh, look! Post is here!"
Sure enough, the very familiar sound of rushing wings was heard as the flocks of owls once again made their way down from the rafters. Like the previous day, a couple of owls swooped down to Harry and Hermione, dropping two copies of the new edition of the Daily Prophet, which the couple caught before the newspaper landed in their plates.
Schooling his expression so as not to reveal how humorous he found the article he knew was on the front page, Harry unrolled the newspaper. The picture on the front page this time was the Goblet of Fire in all its glory, lit with blue flame.
TRIWIZARD TOURNAMENT CONTENDERS REQUIRED TO BE 'OF AGE' TO
QUALIFY FOR CHAMPION. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR HARRY POTTER?
Written by Rita Skeeter, Daily Prophet Star Reporter
In order to get more acquainted with the Triwizard Tournament so as to write
better articles for my readers, I did a lot of research into the Triwizard Tournament,
and the plans which brought the legendary Tournament back after a very long hiatus.
While researching the creation of the Tournament, I came across a few interesting
details that were discussed by the Tournament's officials in the British Ministry of
Magic. These officials are Albus Dumbledore, Bartemius Crouch, and Ludo Bagman.
Minister of Magic Cornelius Fudge is credited with some mentions when it comes to
the details forming the newest Tournament, but was not included in most of the work.
Therefore, I must deduce that Minister Fudge designated Bartemius Crouch, and Ludo
Bagman as the official representatives of the Ministry of Magic. Why is this important?
It will be made clear soon enough.
One of the most important details I found was very interesting, especially when it came
to how it was worded. It was decided that all interested contenders, whose names were
entered into the Goblet of Fire, in hopes of becoming Champion, had to be considered
'of legal age in accordance to the laws set by the British Ministry of Magic'. Interesting
to note that the Ministry of Magic is mentioned, and not the International Confederation
Of Warlocks. Another interesting note was that 'of legal age' was specifically mentioned
and not 'seventeen' as is the age in which 'legal age' is defined by Ministry of Magic
standards.
So what does this mean for the unexpected Fourth Champion, the Boy-Who-Lived Harry
Potter? Harry Potter is fourteen years old, and yet the Goblet of Fire chose him as a
Champion. It is interesting to note that the Goblet of Fire is also referred to by artefact
experts as 'a true representative of Magic'.
It is relatively unknown what happened during the several minutes after Harry Potter's name
came out of the Goblet of Fire. We do know that every single Tournament official, along with
several Hogwarts Staff Members, were present in the antechamber of the Great Hall of
Hogwarts, along with Harry Potter and the other three Champions. It is known that nothing
was done to prevent Harry Potter from competing in the tournament. It is due to this that I
must come to this stunning conclusion.
Albus Dumbledore, the Headmaster of Hogwarts and Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, and
Ludo Bagman and Bartemius Crouch, the representatives of the Ministry of Magic all agreed
that Harry Potter must compete in the Triwizard Tournament. Technically, the Goblet of Fire,
the representative of Magic, also agreed with this decision. Therefore the representatives of
Hogwarts, the British Ministry of Magic, the Wizengamot, and Magic herself all agreed -
whether vocally or not – that Harry Potter was to be considered 'of legal age in accordance
to the laws.'
What does this mean for Harry Potter? Simple answer, readers: Harry Potter should now be
considered an Emancipated Minor. What does that mean? As an Emancipated Minor, the
Boy-Who-Lived now has all the benefits and privileges of being an 'of age' wizard. Harry
Potter is the last living Heir of an Ancient and Most Noble House. Therefore, as an
Emancipated Minor, Harry Potter should now be seen as Lord Potter of the Ancient and
Most Noble House of Potter.
Does the Boy-Who-Lived know about these details? Does he know he is an Emancipated
Minor? If so, has he taken on the title of Lord Potter? If this is true, why hasn't this news
been revealed to the masses yet? The only explanation I can give is that Harry Potter does
not know about this information.
This means that somebody is actively preventing Harry Potter from discovering this
information, which should be considered not only illegal, but also immoral, as being a
Lord of a very important Ancient and Noble House is a privilege in today's society.
The only remaining questions I have are: who is keeping secrets from our hero and savior:
the Boy-Who-Lived, Lord Harry Potter? And why?
Minister Cornelius Fudge: "No Human Hostages Will Be Used In Second Task", Bottom, Front Page
The History of the Ancient of Most Noble House of Potter, Pages 2 and 3
Harry sighed and resisted banging his head in his plate of food. This wasn't exactly how he had hoped this article would go. Obviously Rita Skeeter wasn't happy with having to wait for whatever it was Harry had discovered whilst inside Gringotts on Sunday. She wanted this information soon, and it seemed the best way to do that was to imply that he, Harry, needed to learn this information as soon as possible!
Harry did not dare look at the Headmaster this time. He did not want to risk Dumbledore attempting to use Legilimency on him.
"Well, then," Harry muttered, "I think we can bet that the Headmaster is going to want to see me in his office before the end of the day."
"Before our first class, I'd wager," Hermione said.
"We have History of Magic first, Harry," Neville said, "I reckon if the Headmaster wanted to meet with you between now and our first class, you could get away with showing up late, and Binns would likely say nothing about it."
"But what about our exam?" Hermione asked.
"We have another History of Magic class on Friday, Hermione," Neville said, "I don't think we're taking our exam for that class until then. Today is probably either going to be revision or another lecture."
"Lecture," Padma said, "Binns doesn't care about revision."
"Very true," Hermione said, "So you should definitely count on having to meet with the Headmaster between now and class, Harry."
"Will you go with me?" Harry asked.
"If I am allowed, I will," Hermione said.
"Hermione Granger is going to miss class to spend more time with Harry?" Padma asked, with an expression of mock-shock, "You really do got it bad, girl!"
Hermione's blush was epic.
(Meanwhile…)
Albus Dumbledore was inwardly seething. He didn't think Rita Skeeter's article could be any worse than it was yesterday. He had been very, very wrong. He had been worried that the revelation of the Second Task and the plans to use human hostages would be devastating for him. That problem was simple compared to the revelations that Miss Skeeter had wrote about today. When Rita had not written about Harry's possible Emancipation in the week after the Choosing Ceremony, Albus thought he was in the clear of that particular problem. So he had not planned for it to come out any later. He had been focused on other problems, most of which circled around the Triwizard Tournament, Harry Potter, and the signs of Lord Voldemort's probable return before the following summer.
Now, it was coming back to bite him in his pale, wrinkled backside.
Of course, Albus Dumbledore knew that Harry Potter was an Emancipated Minor! It had dawned on him during the post-Choosing meeting in the antechamber. Rita Skeeter, annoying as she was, had been correct. Representatives of Hogwarts, the Ministry of Magic, the Wizengamot, and Magic herself had all decided Harry Potter was to be the Fourth Champion in a tournament which was made for 'of legal age' contestants! On top of that, Albus was a representative of the International Confederation of Warlocks, so the ICW was also a representative in the decision to keep Harry Potter in the tournament! Therefore, the highest authorities of magic had decided that Harry James Potter was an Emancipated Minor.
Albus knew having three important jobs at the same time was going to come back to bite him sooner or later. He just didn't know it would be this bad!
Albus had never planned on informing Harry Potter of the history of his family, and the privileges and benefits that came with it. He was planning on Potter being dead before his seventeenth birthday, so the boy would never become Lord Potter! He never planned on Harry Potter discovering any of this. In fact, he had removed all important tomes and books about the very thing from Hogwarts Library when he realized Harry Potter's friend was a dedicated bookworm who would probably be able to find the correct books quite quickly and inform Potter of what she had discovered!
Even thirteen years later, Albus was still reeling about the fact that James Potter had the gall to refuse Albus Dumbledore the right to proxy the Potter and Peverell seat if he had passed on before his son could take the seats in the Wizengamot. Albus Dumbledore had been sitting feet away from James Potter when he penned the very words in the Will that prevented this! Because Gringotts knew about this declaration, Albus could not claim proxy because he couldn't use the Lord Potter and Peverell rings! Ten votes he could have used in revenge against the Great Alliance for every damnable law had helped create over the two decades prior to James Potter's passing.
He had done everything to prevent Harry Potter from learning about his future titles and the privileges and benefits that came with his Ancient and Most Noble House. Not only had he removed the relevant books, he had also used a rather Dark enchantment to prevent Allies of the Potters, and others, from informing the Heir of any of that information, including anything about the Great Alliance. He had even stopped all communication between Harry Potter and Keeper Ragnok the Sixth, the Potter's Account Manager at Gringotts.
And now, thanks to Rita Skeeter's damnable, infuriating article, Harry Potter was getting all this information for himself. No! He needed to stop this before it could go any further. He needed to meet with the boy as soon as possible and assure him that Rita Skeeter knew nothing about what she was talking about. That she was simply speculating things, and had gotten all the wrong information. Of course, the boy would want to know when he could learn about his House, and know about all the responsibilities he would have to handle as the future Lord of his House. Albus had a ready-made answer for that too!
He also needed to get to the Ministry to see if he could stop Potter's Emancipation now that the information had gotten out. But first, he needed to speak to Harry.
"Minerva," Albus said to his Deputy, "Please inform Harry Potter that I wish to meet him in my office in half-an-hour." After a thought, he added. "Please bring Hermione Granger too. I need to speak to her about a few things regarding the Second Task."
"Of course, Albus," Minerva said, "You know, we never did get around to the discussion about the Second Task."
"It is all being handled, Minerva," Albus said, "We will have that discussion once the details are handled. As you can see from today's Daily Prophet, Minister Fudge himself has promised that there will be no human hostages used during the Second Task. Details are being made that will ensure this is handled."
"Very well," Minerva said, "I'll let Mr. Potter and Miss Granger know. I will be there as chaperone again. I have no class first period."
"Will Mr. Potter and Miss Granger need a pass?" Albus asked.
"The Fourth Year Gryffindors have History of Magic first period," Minerva said, "I doubt Cuthbert will even know, or care, if two of his students are late."
Albus chuckled. "I am of the same opinion. Very well. I will see you and your two Lions then."
Albus stood and made his way to the door that led to the same antechamber, ironically the very place that started the journey that led him to his predicament today. He did not want to have to deal with questions from students today like he had to experience yesterday during breakfast. He had deliberately remained at the Ministry for lunch the previous day, and had his dinner in his office, just to prevent all the attention that might come his way from the students.
"If I didn't believe it wouldn't bite me in the arse in the future," Albus said, "I'd offer a bill up to make libel and slander in the media illegal! But I am going to need that libel and slander in the future."
With these and other thoughts going through his exceptionally large mind, Albus made his way to his office to prepare for what would be another very long day.
(Ten minutes later…)
Miraculously, nobody had brought up the article to Harry during breakfast. Not even Padma, Luna and Neville, whom Harry knew now were Allies of his family. He wondered if this was some type of social etiquette thing to not discuss such topics in public areas like a crowded Great Hall. He'd have to bring this up to Hermione or Professor McGonagall later.
Speaking of Professor McGonagall, the Lioness of Gryffindor walked up to Harry and Hermione at the Ravenclaw Table.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Granger," McGonagall said, "The Headmaster would like to see you in his office. He wishes me to assure you that you will receive passes in case you get to class late."
"Both of us, ma'am?" Hermione asked.
"Both of you, Miss Granger," McGonagall said, "Come with me, please."
Harry and Hermione said temporary farewells to Neville, Padma and Luna, then stood up and followed Professor McGonagall out of the Great Hall.
"If you wish to ask me anything, Mr. Potter, Miss Granger," McGonagall said, "Please remember where we are about to walk into."
Harry and Hermione both heard the silent message: do not speak of anything important concerning the truth behind Rita Skeeter's latest article in the Grand Staircase, where there are dozens of portraits who might be used as spies for the Headmaster.
"I forgot to tell you, Harry!" Hermione said, as the three Lions walked onto the Grand Staircase, "Mallory gave me a letter from my parents this morning, a reply to the letter I sent them on Sunday night. I am to formally invite you to spend the shortened Christmas Break at my parents' house. We would meet them on Boxing Day at King's Cross."
"Great!" Harry said, smiling, "Please tell them I would be happy to accept!"
"Of course," Hermione said.
"I will sign the both of you up for the shortened Christmas Break then," McGonagall said.
"Thank you, ma'am," Hermione said.
After that short conversation, the three Lions were silent as they made their way to the Headmaster's Office on the third floor. Like Sunday afternoon, the young couple were practicing their calming manner, in order to keep the Headmaster from discovering their Occlumency Talents.
When they arrived at the gargoyle, Professor McGonagall gave the guardian the password ("Candy Canes!"), and the stone statue nodded its large head and stepped out of the way. The Head of Gryffindor escorted the two students up the stairs and the door automatically opened when they arrived. They stepped into the Headmaster's Office, where Dumbledore was waiting for them at his desk. Like Sunday afternoon, there were three chairs there on the nearest side of the desk.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Granger, Professor McGonagall," Dumbledore greeted them, "Please be seated."
The three Lions did as requested.
"I trust you two have read Miss Skeeter's headlining article in this morning's edition of the Daily Prophet," Dumbledore addressed the two students.
"We have, sir," Harry said, "Is what she said true?"
"Half of it is true," Dumbledore said, with a sigh, "And half of it is Miss Skeeter's usual dramatic flair. When you are seventeen, you will be named Lord Potter, Head of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter. That much is, indeed, true."
"But what about this Emancipation thing?" Harry asked.
"Miss Skeeter was wrong about that, Mr. Potter," Dumbledore said, "You recall how she suspected that I, and my fellow Tournament officials, decided that the Champion contenders had to be 'of age'? No, we specifically mentioned 'seventeen or older'. Yes, if we had done as Miss Skeeter said, you may have ended up an Emancipated Minor as a technicality. Your placement in the Tournament was an accident, one we could not remedy, but are still investigating who did the deed – as I mentioned to you on Sunday. There were no other unspoken repercussions after your name came out of the Goblet of Fire. If there were, trust me, you would have heard it from me in the week following the Choosing Ceremony."
Harry knew the old man was lying through his teeth. Professor McGonagall had been right when she told Rita Skeeter. Dumbledore was simply saying all this, so he could go to the Ministry to try to overturn Harry's Emancipation, before Harry could do anything to solidify it. Unfortunately for Dumbledore, the old man was already too late.
"I see," Harry said, "When were you going to tell me about this Lord Potter business and what it means for me? Skeeter's article was the first time I ever heard anything about the Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter. Nobody here at Hogwarts ever told me a thing about it."
A white-lie and a stretch of the truth. If Dumbledore could do it, so could Harry.
"I had plans on arranging those types of lessons for you during your sixth year of education here at Hogwarts," Dumbledore said, with a smile. "With these lessons, you will be quite prepared, by the time you turn seventeen, for the role, privileges, benefits, and expectations of becoming one of the Lords of our society, an esteemed position. Until then, you have nothing to worry about, Mr. Potter. Please, if may suggest, focus on your studies, the Triwizard Tournament, and – if I may be so bold – your new relationship with Miss Granger here. Anything more on your plate would make it quite full, and unnecessarily so."
"Yes, sir," Harry said, in the dutiful manner Dumbledore would expect of him.
Not a chance, old man, Harry was really thinking, I am Lord Potter now, and I am going to use it to make sure you have no control in my life anymore.
"Excellent!" Dumbledore said, with what might have been a genuine smile, "I have one more task here for this meeting, and then – well, perhaps we need not have worried Professor Binns on you being late to class today! Miss Granger, on Sunday afternoon, you mentioned your worries about the spectators' part in the Second Task. I am sure you recall this."
"Yes, Headmaster," Hermione said, "Is something wrong? I was most surprised when I saw Miss Skeeter's article about such a thing. I hope you don't believe I told her anything about that."
"No, no, I do not believe you did," Dumbledore said, smiling. "No need to worry about that. When I was at the Ministry yesterday, taking care of the – ahem – unfortunate backlash of Miss Skeeter's headlining article, the spectators issue of the Second Task came up, and I mentioned that you had worried about such a thing as well. Mr. Ludo Bagman and Minister Cornelius Fudge himself were very interested in this.
"We were wondering whether or not you might have some suggestions that might help you and your fellow spectators have a better time during the Second Task. As a Muggleborn, perhaps you have some insights into some – ah – Muggle ideas we might be able to use to solve this problem."
Hermione looked genuinely surprised at this request. "Nothing comes to mind right now, sir. But I am sure I could come up with something before the Second Task comes around."
"If you come up with anything," Dumbledore said, "Please let me know. I can arrange a meeting between yourself, and the Tournament officials and I."
"As long as Miss Granger does not have to travel to the Ministry of Magic, Headmaster," McGonagall said. "Such a meeting would have to take place here, so as to not cause too much interference in her studies and education."
"Of course, Professor," Dumbledore said, "I would not suggest otherwise."
"I would be happy to agree to that," Hermione said, "If I can come up with some ideas. I will try to do so before the end of January."
"That would be wonderful, Miss Granger," Dumbledore said. "I believe that is all I needed to say. Enjoy your day, my students, and good luck with your exams today. You are excused. If you make haste, you should make it to your first class on time."
Harry and Hermione stood, as did McGonagall, and the two students followed the Professor out of the Office. Once again, McGonagall checked the three of them for Tracking Charms. Once again she found them on Harry and Hermione, and she immediately did away with them. They made their way down the corridor, where McGonagall led the pair into an unused classroom. McGonagall cast her wand around the room and used several enchantments.
"I've cast a few anti-eavesdropping and privacy spells," McGonagall said, "And also made sure there are no Portraits or other eavesdropping artifacts here, of which there are not. We may speak freely."
"It happened exactly as you predicted, Professor," Harry said, "Dumbledore tried to make me believe that the Emancipation wasn't real. I assume he is going to the Ministry now to try to prevent my Emancipation from happening?"
"I believe so, as well," McGonagall said, "And like we told Miss Skeeter, I do not believe he will succeed without a lot of trouble."
"Do you believe he will discover anything today?" Hermione asked, "Will he find out Harry is now Lord Potter?"
"I believe he is going to seek out the official record books," McGonagall said. "If I recall, the records will inform him that Mr. Potter is Emancipated, and qualifies for the titles of Lord Potter and Lord Peverell. But I also believe Keeper Ragnok planned for this very thing and has prevented the Headmaster from discovering exactly what happened on Sunday, until you reveal it yourself – either to the Headmaster, or to the public in general. I do not believe Dumbledore will find out today that you are, in fact, Lord Potter."
"I hope you're right, ma'am," Harry said. "But I wonder if we should prepare for the unexpected. Maybe I should write a letter to Keeper Ragnok, for Dobby to deliver at a moment's notice."
"Do so, Mr. Potter," McGonagall said, "Just to be on the safe side. Expect the unexpected. Remember, you're still waiting for the opportunity when the Weasleys reveal their secrets."
"We might have some ideas about that already, ma'am," Hermione said, "We're just working out the kinks."
"Well, if your ideas are anything as good as your prank on getting Champion Krum banned from the Library," McGonagall said, with a rare smile, "I believe you just might succeed."
Harry and Hermione blushed.
"You know about that, ma'am?" Hermione asked.
"Of course I do, Miss Granger!" McGonagall said, "Irma Pince may be a strict taskmaster of the Library, but she is also a gossip. I've heard all about Viktor Krum's unwelcome interest in you, lassie. Getting him banned from the library was a wise idea and will hopefully put him off his inane quest to try to… woo you, or whatever he seems to think he's doing. Now I believe I am taking up much of your time. Be off, with you now. Have a wonderful day."
Harry and Hermione echoed the Professor's statement and left the unused classroom.
(Fifteen minutes later…)
For the second day in a row, Albus Dumbledore found himself on Level 1 of the Ministry of Magic, however the Meeting Rooms were not his intended destination today. He soon found himself standing in front of a door, which had a sign on it reading "Hall of Magical Records."
He pushed open the door and walked into the small room, an entrance room that was an office, mainly for the Secretary of Records. The said witch was sitting at a small desk, reading the Daily Prophet. Behind the desk was another doorway that, Albus knew, led to a warehouse of records dating back centuries. Only high-ranked officials had permission to peruse the records, and as one of the elite members of the Wizengamot, Albus had that permission.
"Yes, what do you need?" the witch said, in a bored tone, her attention still on the newspaper. She looked up and blushed in embarrassment. "Oh, Headmaster Dumbledore! I'm sorry for my rudeness."
"No apology necessary, Lady Brown," Albus said, smiling, "I just need to visit the Hall of Records."
"Of course, Headmaster," Holly Brown, mother of Gryffindor fourth year, Lavender, said, "You have open permission, of course."
A jingling was heard as Lady Brown took out a large, brass keyring from a desk drawer. She stood up, walked over to the door and unlocked it, then opened it. Dumbledore bowed his head in thanks and walked into the room.
The Hall of Records was a large room three-fourths the size of the Great Hall at Hogwarts. Aside from the Atrium, it was one of the biggest rooms in the Ministry. There were several enchantments and runes that made the room larger than it actually should be. When nobody was in the room, it shrunk to the size of any normal room in the Ministry, yet nothing inside the room was harmed.
Albus could have simply asked the witch at the desk to summon the records for him, but he didn't want her to know he was looking for the records for Harry Potter. Much like her daughter, Holly was a known gossip.
Albus whistled a tune as he made his way through the large room. His destination was not toward the 'P' section of the room, but toward a special area for VIP names. It had been decided after the events of that fateful Halloween that Harry Potter, as the Boy-Who-Lived, qualified for having his records in such an area, so that not just anybody could peruse his records. Even though only the elite in the Ministry had permission to enter the room, only the top of the elite, such as Albus, could gain entry into the VIP section of the Hall.
Albus made his way into the VIP section and found Harry Potter's name on a drawer. He placed his hand on the drawer, feeling the magic as it accepted him, and the drawer opened automatically. He took out the first folder in the drawer and opened it up.
Name: Harry James Potter
Date Of Birth: 31 July 1980
Parents: James Charlus Potter (deceased) and Lily Rose Potter 'nee Evans (deceased)
Official Titles of Lineage:
Ancient and Noble Houses:
House Potter – direct descendant - father
House Peverell – direct descendant – father
House Black – second-in-line – father
Minor House:
House Evans – direct descendant – mother – second generation
NOTE: Harry James Potter is an Emancipated Minor as of 31 October 1994, therefore qualifies for titles Lord Potter of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter, and Lord Peverell of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Peverell.
Albus frowned as he closed the folder and placed it back in the drawer. It was exactly as he had thought. Harry Potter qualified for the two titles, but he hadn't been given the titles automatically after he had been Emancipated. No, he would need to go to Gringotts and meet with his Account Manager to do that.
But there was also a surprise here. Harry was second-in-line for the title of Lord Black, not third-in-line. Draco Malfoy was not Lord Black yet. So this meant…
"Sirius Black did not lose his ability to reproduce due to the affects of Dementor Exposure," Albus said to himself, "It also means that Sirius Black has also already proclaimed that Harry is his current Heir. If he had not made such a proclamation, Draco Malfoy would be second-in-line. That is unexpected, but not too complicating. Lucius Malfoy would be most upset if he learned about this, however. He might even decide to take out such anger on Sirius Black. Hmm…"
A Cheshire smile formed across Albus' face as many ideas crossed his mind. All he needed to do was prove that Harry Potter wasn't qualified, nor ready, for the troubles that come with being a Lord. He could get the Emancipation overturned.
He needed to speak to Cornelius.
(Ten Minutes Later...)
Albus stepped into the welcome area of the Ministerial and Support Staff Offices. He made his way over to the Minister's personal secretary, who was working at her desk. She looked up at Albus, and smiled at him.
"Welcome, Headmaster," the secretary said.
"Good morning, young Isabella," Albus said, "Is Cornelius available to see me?"
"I believe so," Isabella said, "Let me just check."
She stood up and walked over to the door behind her desk, which led into the Minister's Office. She knocked on the door, then opened it slightly and poked her head in. A few words were heard, then she turned around.
"Minister Fudge will see you now, sir," Isabella said, she picked up a vase of flowers on the desk. "Follow me, please. I was just about to deliver these flowers to the Minister anyway."
Albus bowed his head in acknowledgement. "Thank you, my dear."
He walked past the secretary and made his way into the Minister's office. Cornelius was, miraculously, the only person in the room. Albus half-expected Dolores Umbridge to be there, as she usually was when he spoke to the Minister. Umbridge loved butting her head into conversations, adding her own opinion.
"Albus! Good morning!" Cornelius greeted, standing behind his magnificent desk, "Oh, those are beautiful flowers, Isabella. Are these from you, Albus?"
"Not my type, I'm afraid," Albus said, chuckling.
"These are from an anonymous fan, Minister," Isabella said, "But something tells me they are from Widow Widdershins. She's always giving you flowers at least once a week."
"The Widow is still alive?" Cornelius asked, "Dear me, I think she's older than Albus here! Well, put them on the mantle, dear, as per usual. The Widow will tell all her Allies to vote for my opposition next election if she hears I've denied a gift from her!"
Isabella bowed, then walked over to the mantle above the Floo and placed the vase in the center. She bowed again, then walked out of the Office and closed the door.
"I'm going to assume you're here for the same reason you were here yesterday, Albus," Cornelius said, as he sat down, "Rita Skeeter's newest article. Was she right, Albus? Is Harry Potter Emancipated? Is he the new Lord Potter?"
"He is, indeed, Emancipated, Minister," Albus said, with a sigh, "But he has not yet gained the Lord Potter title. Not until he goes to Gringotts and meets with his Account Manager."
"Well, you don't need my permission, Albus!" Cornelius said, "Take the boy and let him meet the Goblin!"
"Do you not think he is too young for such a role, Cornelius?" Albus asked.
"The Goblet of Fire – the representative of Magic – didn't think so, did it?!" Cornelius said, with a deep sigh. "The law is absolute, Albus. The boy is Lord Potter. He will need a Proxy for his seat, of course. But aside from that, he has all the privileges and benefits of such a title now. Two and a half years early, dear me."
"Exactly, Cornelius," Albus said, "I do not believe he is ready for such a burden. Not until he is seventeen. We need to overturn it, Minister."
"I cannot do it myself, Albus!" Cornelius said, "And neither could you! Such a thing would need approval from the Wizengamot!"
"The Winter Solstice Session is next Monday, Cornelius," Albus said, "I believe that would be the right time to get it overturned."
"Well, I wish you the best of luck, Albus," Cornelius sighed. "Once the Great Alliance hears that the Lord Potter seat is about to return to the Wizengamot, they will do everything in their power to make sure it happens. I doubt they would agree with you, when it comes to the fact that Potter isn't ready to take up the mantle."
"At the moment, they're not at their full power," Albus said, "It was the Potter and Peverell seats which gave them their power."
"Yes, well, thank goodness the Peverell seat is forever dark," Cornelius said.
"Harry Potter would also qualify as Lord Peverell, Cornelius," Albus said.
Cornelius' eyes widened. "Are you sure? Goodness me! That would mean… yes, yes, you're right. The boy's Emancipation must not happen until he is truly ready! You have my support. We'll put this through the Wizengamot during the Winter Solstice Session!"
Albus smiled. "I will voice the Bill myself, Minister. Thank you for your cooperation."
"You just make sure the boy doesn't go to Gringotts before the Solstice Session, Albus!" Cornelius said, "If he obtains the Lord's Rings, you'll never be able to stop him from being Lord Potter and Lord Peverell!"
"Mr. Potter will remain at Hogwarts, Cornelius," Albus said, "Of this, I am sure. At the moment, he doesn't even know he has an Account Manager, or the Potter Vaults. Only a Trust Vault."
Cornelius sighed in relief. "Thank Merlin for small miracles. Thank you for informing me of this. Is there anything else?"
"I have spoken to Hermione Granger about your interest in her assistance for the Second Task," Albus said. "She has promised to consider ideas for the Spectators before January. She would be agreeable to meet you and the Tournament officials at Hogwarts in the near future after she has accomplished her ideas."
"I look forward to it!" Cornelius said, smiling. "Might even give her an Order of Merlin if she helps us! At the very least an award for Services to the School!"
"I am sure she would be happy to hear it," Albus said, "I believe that is all I have for now."
"I will see you on the Solstice if not before then," Cornelius said, "Let us hope Miss Skeeter has no more… interesting revelations."
Albus certainly agreed with that!
(Meanwhile…)
The Minister of Magic's personal secretary, Isabella Blishwick, smirked as she waved her wand around her ears, and cancelled the eavesdropping charm she had placed on the vase of flowers. She may have told a bit of a lie to the Minister. The vase was not from Widow Widdershins, but from her eldest sister, who just so happened to be Illiana Greengrass, the wife of Lord Castor Greengrass, a member of the Great Alliance.
Isabella Blishwick was the youngest daughter of the Noble House of Blishwick. Before James Potter's death in 1981, the House of Blishwick had been in talks with Lord Potter to join the Great Alliance. But such talks were stopped when Lord Potter had died. Well, Isabella and her father Lord Isaac Blishwick had been invited to Greengrass Manor this past Sunday evening for a family dinner. Lord Castor had a special announcement. Sometime late Sunday morning, Lord Castor suddenly and unexpectedly remembered the relevance of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter, and their connection to the House Greengrass and the Great Alliance. Lord Castor had suspected a Dark enchantment had been in play for many years.
He had also suspected that Albus Dumbledore, the Leader of the Light, had been behind this nefarious enchantment. The enchantment had been broken, and Lord Castor had suspected he knew why. He believed that Harry James Potter had gained the title of Lord Potter, and maybe even Lord Peverell.
So Lord Castor had come up with a plan. It was no secret Isabella was the Minister's personal secretary. He had suspected that Albus Dumbledore would soon find out something about Harry Potter and his new Lordship, so he asked Isabella for a great favor. In return, if the plan was successful, Lord Castor would do his best to convince Lord Potter to bring the Noble House of Blishwick into the Great Alliance.
Isabella's father, Lord Blishwick accepted immediately, then demanded to his daughter to go through with the plan as soon as possible.
Which was where the vase of flowers had come in. It had eavesdropping enchantments built into it, as well as a Notice-Me-Not Charm hiding said enchantments. When Albus Dumbledore came to meet with the Minister in his office, Isabella simply needed to deliver the vase as a gift from an anonymous source. Then she would activate the enchantments and listen to the conversation.
She got exactly what her father and Lord Greengrass had been hoping for. Albus Dumbledore knew Harry Potter was Emancipated, but he did not know the young man was now Lord Potter. He was working on trying to overturn the Emancipation, and was planning on doing so at the Winter Solstice Session.
Isabella smiled the same Cheshire smile Albus had done many minutes before. Albus Dumbledore, the so-called Leader of the Light, was going to get quite a surprise next Monday.
Isabella whistled and continued her work, eagerly waiting for her lunch break, where she would write a couple of letters to her father and her eldest sister's husband, to give them the news of her successful mission.
Can you believe that last scene didn't come to my mind until I began this chapter? Isabella might not be an important character in the future of the story, but House Blishwick will be, as a part of the Great Alliance.
So I hope you liked this chapter!
Next Chapter: It is time for the our heroes to discover exactly what the Weasleys are up to! Things are about to get very exciting!