Chapter 13: Confrontation on the Train
As promised Sirius went to Gringotts the following day and annulled Narcissa's marriage. While he was at it he did the same with Bellatrix's marriage then proceeding to banish her from the Black Family. This action would cut the Death Eater's ties to the Black Family magic making her much weaker if and when she escaped Azkaban.
Shortly after that Narcissa and Draco moved in with Sirius and Harry, this put Harry, Hermione, and the newly renamed Draco Black under the same roof for the rest of the summer.
The first week or so was slightly uncomfortable for the three of them. Any time Draco entered a room when it was just Hermione and Harry he would give them a courteous bow then immediately make his way out.
Hermione assumed he was trying not to pester them since they had bad blood between them for the last three years.
Finally one day Harry and Hermione came into the kitchen one afternoon to find Draco sitting at the table appearing to be eating a sandwich while reading over one of his homework assignments.
The moment he saw them he stood, "Please excuse me." He said as he start to gather his things.
"Nonsense." Hermione said, "You're a member of this family now Draco…no reason we can't all have lunch together."
Once she finished saying that Draco sat back down, the look on his face saying he was slightly uncomfortable.
Harry sat down as well followed by Hermione and as they did two plates appeared in front of them with finger sandwiches. Dobby stood at the end of the table with a smile, "Dobby gets lunch for Master Harry and Missy Hermione."
"Thank you Dobby." Hermione smiled and rubbed the little elf's head.
"Ya know." Draco spoke, "Cooking at Malfoy Manor plummeted when you freed him." Draco nodded towards Dobby.
Harry chuckled, "Well I have to say since Dobby started working for me I have gained at least ten pounds."
"I'm just glad I can eat his cooking again." Draco said.
"Master Draco was the nicest at Malfoy manor…when his father wasn't around." Dobby said.
"Yeah…well I'm sure Harry can attest to what my father thinks of house elves." Draco said, "If he ever caught me being nice to one…I don't want to even think about what he may have done to me…or the elf."
"You're father is a real piece of work." Hermione said.
"I'm well aware." Draco said as he looked over potions essay again, "Damn…missing about three inches here…"
"Would you like me to go over it for you?" Hermione asked.
"Uh…sure." He passes her the parchment.
Hermione began looking it over Harry smirked, "Careful Black." Harry said, "If you let Hermione work your essays you'll be redoing the entire thing."
"Like you're any better?" Hermione said, "Now those potions are out of your system your essays tend to have five more inches than mine."
"Five more than Granger? What kind of potions did they have you on?" Draco asked, "Last I heard Snape scolded you for missing four inches."
"Yea well without the loyalty potions to Ron making me want be a lazy lout like him it turns out I'm exactly like my mother…a brain." Harry said with a smirk.
"Well guess now I'll have to try harder to keep my spot in the top ten." Draco said, "Now that your jumping up from your spot in the twenties."
The group laughed and from that day on things were much easier between the three of them. Over the last few weeks the three of them would study together and Harry and Hermione helped Draco finish all his summer homework.
When the time came for them to head back to Hogwarts the three of them walked onto platform nine and three quarters side by side ignoring the looks they got from those around them. They were all shocked to see Harry Potter walking side by side with Draco. None more than the Weasley's, Ron's mouth nearly hit the floor.
"Hey guys." Harry said with a smile.
"I'll catch you on the train Harry." Draco said and went to the side boarding the train.
"Harry why the hell are hanging out with Malfoy?" Ron asked.
Harry blinked with a curious expression on his face, "I know you get the Prophet at your house Ron. Draco's mother's marriage got annulled and now they are both Blacks again and currently living with me a Sirius. We've had to get along for the last three weeks and without his father whispering in his ear he's quite tolerable. He's even nice to Hermione."
"Hermione dear did you're parents drop you off at the barrier." Mrs. Weasley asked trying to change the subject.
"Oh no Mrs. Weasley, my parents went to a work conference just before the World Cup. I've been staying with Harry and Sirius ever since." Hermione said with a sweet smile.
"Oh, isn't that nice." Mrs. Weasley said, Harry could swear he saw a vein pop out in her forehead, "Well I do hope the three of you have a good school year together." She said calmly, "Now go on, get on the train."
"Bye Mr. and Mrs. Weasley." Harry and Hermione said over their shoulders. As they headed for the train. Harry watched as Ron stayed behind to speak to his mother off to the side. Harry assumed they were plotting their next scheme.
"Come on Harry," Hermione said, "Luna said she's save us a seat I'm sure Draco is already there." She tugged Harry's arm.
The two of them found Luna and sure enough Draco was sitting with her but surprisingly Ginny was there too. "Oh? So it was a love potion that made you ask me out?" Ginny asked curiously as Harry opened the compartment door.
"Uh yea I'm sorry." Draco said.
"That was actually my fault Ginny." Harry spoke up as he entered the room. "See someone sent me a some sweets laced with love potions and as a prank Sirius and I sent them to Draco…of course that was before his mother annulled her marriage and they moved in with us."
"Wait…" Ginny said holding up her hand, "Who would send you a love potion keyed to me that makes…" she then stopped and her jaw dropped, "Harry…those sweets…did they come from my mother."
"I think you know the answer to that Ginny." Hermione said.
Ginny clapped her hand to her face, "Oh my god…" she grumbled, "Harry I swear I didn't know."
"I know Gin that's not your style you can get any man you want with just your looks and brains, apart from me…" Harry said politely, "You've always been more like a little sister to me."
Ginny blushed a bit, "Look I'll admit I had a thing for you my first year. I mean you got that god awful valentine I sent you. But after the whole Chamber of Secrets thing…well you just seem to attract trouble and well you have Hermione."
Hermione's face got red, "We're not a couple." She said.
Everyone in the room looked at each other then looked back to the two of them, "Yet." They all said in unison.
Hermione rolled her eyes and sat down beside Luna, and Harry sat beside her. The compartment was quiet for a moment then Draco spoke, "Uh Ginny…" everyone looked his way which made his face go a bit red, "So I know the potion is what made me ask you out, but if you're still up for it…I'd like it if we could go to Hogsmead together like we planned. I'm sure I'll have a much better time with you than being dragged around by Pansy all day."
"Oh…" Ginny blushed a bit, "Okay…but our arrangement still stands. No picking on my friends or my family."
"I can promise you, you won't a mean word out of my mouth about Harry, Hermione, or the twins…can't make any promises about Ronald though. I'll try, but if he starts running off at the mouth I'll likely retaliate."
Ginny seemed to ponder that for a moment, "Okay I supposed that's fair."
And as if summoned by his name the compartment door slid open and there stood Ron, "He's sitting with us now, seriously!?"
"Well Ron as I told you he's practically my cousin now and he's trying to distance himself from the other Death Eaters kids." Harry said, "But if you don't like it I'm sure you can go sit with Seamus…" Everyone but Draco, who looked confused as to why that was funny, chuckled at that, "Maybe you can pick up where you left off after the World Cup."
Ron gawked, "Really Harry?"
"Yea…Draco is part of my family now." Harry said, "Learn to deal with it or sit elsewhere."
Ron grimaced, "Fine be that way." He growled and shut the door stomping off down the hall.
"Okay what's the joke with Finnigan?" Draco asked.
"Well." Luna said and explained exactly what happened that night.
"Ron tried to potion Hermione?!" Ginny exclaimed. "Oh my god. Look I want this clear I have had no part in whatever my mother and Ron have been up too."
"Ginny we don't blame you." Hermione said, "But be careful of any treats you mother sends you. She seems dead set on trying to get you and Harry together."
"I'll be writing dad as soon as I get to my room tonight this has to stop." Ginny said, "I can't believe her."
"Well think about it." Draco said, "Your mother was originally a Prewett a very wealthy family. Then she marries your father for love and she has to change her lifestyle to be with him and she's alright with that but she wants the best for you, her daughter and she sees Harry, with his enormous fortune, as the best match for you. I agree she is going about this completely wrong but maybe her judgement is just clouded by her love for you."
"Maybe but still, even if I still liked Harry doping him with love potion to love me? That's not love." Ginny said.
"Well I hope you can get your dad to make her stop." Harry said, "Cause Sirius said the next batch of potioned snacks she sends me he'll be reporting for attempted line theft."
Ginny gasped, "Oh dear god that would land her in Azkaban for five years. Hermione loan me some parchment. Harry can I borrow Hedwig? I can't wait to get to the castle I have to write Daddy now."
The two obliged her and Ginny began writing a very detailed letter to her father. As she worked the other three began to talk amongst themselves when their compartment door slid open, "Draco?!" the screeching voice of Pansy Parkinson called out, "What are doing in here with Potter, Loony, and that mudblood?" the girl stood at the door with Crabbe and Goyle behind her.
Draco sighed and looked up at her, "Alright I've expected this confrontation but I'm going to make this very clear. I'm a Black now and the Black Family is aligned with House Potter. So that means as long as your families still side with old Moldypants. I'm not associating with you."
"Wait…we can be friends with Potter now?" Crabbe asked.
"Vincent?!" Pansy screeched.
"Well I'm not stopping you." Draco said.
"Oh good, I really don't want to be on his bad side anymore, Or Granger's…I saw her slug Draco last year and that did not look pleasant." Goyle said.
"So you've wanted to be friends with me this whole time?" Harry asked.
"Well yea, Draco did too at the end of first year but then second year rolled around and suddenly he hated you with a passion." Goyle said, "Our dads told us to follow Draco, so we did."
"Well guys I can honestly tell you when your dads learn of mine and Harry's new kinship they won't be telling you to follow me anymore." Draco told them.
"Well bugger that!" The both of them said together.
"If dad wants to lick You-Know-Who's feet he can do that on his own." Crabbe said, "I'm not pissing off Potter, he already killed the psychopath once."
"Are you two being serious right now." Pansy screeched.
"No that's Harry's godfather." Hermione piped up jokingly.
"Shut up you dirty mudblood!" The Slytherin girl screeched.
Crabbe and Goyle went wide eyed and stepped back. Harry was about to blast her into the next compartment's door but someone one else beat him to it. Everyone in the compartment whipped their heads around and stared wide eye. Luna Lovegood was now on her feet wand pointing at the now slumped girl, "Don't you ever talk about Hermione like that again!" the Ravenclaw shouted.
Harry and Draco started clapping, "Bloody hell Lovegood." Draco said, "I didn't think you had it in you."
"I was about to do the same." Ginny piped up, "Luna here jumped up first."
"Uh…" Crabbe said, "We're gonna go." He pointed down the hall, "We'll talk to you later Draco, Harry." Crabbe then stepped over the whimpering Pansy and grabbed Goyle's arm leading him away.
Pansy looked up fury in her tear filled eyes, "You gonna regret that Looney." She said struggling to get to her feet before limping down the hall.
The compartment on the opposite side was filled with other Ravenclaw girls and they all stared wide eyed at Luna, "Well Luna I believed you just sorted your bullying problem in your House." Harry said.
"I don't care what people do or say about me." Luna said as she sat down, "But I will not tolerate someone badmouthing one of my few friends. My head is not full of wrackspurts."
"Thank you Luna." Hermione said as she reach over and held her hand.
"Of course." Luna said, "I stand up for my friends."
"Luna, if only everyone was like you." Harry said.
Up Next: Ron blows a fuse when he learns of Harry's new schedule. Molly Weasley learns her husband is not as docile as he appears.
Chapter 14: A Husband's Fury
That night after the feast, where they heard all about the Tri-Wizard Tournament and were introduced to the Fake Moody, the group of friends were bidding each other goodnight when Severus walked up to Harry and the gang, "Miss Lovegood." He said sternly.
Luna who was standing in front of Hermione turned to face him, "Yes Professor Snape?" she asked.
"Miss Parkinson has told me you attacked her on the train," He looked down at her sternly, "Care to explain?"
"Its true Professor but I-" she started to try to explain but Pansy cut her off.
"See Professor I told you!" Pansy whined.
"Silence," Snape ordered.
"Professor Snape," Hermione spoke up, "Luna was defending me."
Snape looked her way, "Explain." He ordered.
"Well sir." Draco spoke up, "I was in the compartment with Harry, Ginny, Hermione, and Luna when Parkinson showed up and began screeching at us. Hermione made a joke in reference to Harry's godfather and Pansy snapped at her and called her the 'M' word. Luna responded with a knockback jinx."
Snape grimaced and rounded on Pansy, "You disgrace Slytherin House before school had even begun?" he snarled. Almost the entirety of the Slytherins were standing behind her, "I see I have been far too lenient with you lot the last few years but that ends tonight! Twenty-five points from Slytherin Miss Parkinson and detention with me for a week." All the Slytherins gasped, "Let this be a lesson to the rest of you as well!" he said to the other Slytherins, "If I hear one word of you disrespecting other students based on their blood status you will face repercussions! Now to bed all of you!"
The Slytherins all filed out and headed for the dungeons many of them whispering about Snape's new attitude. Snape then turned back to Luna, "Miss Lovegood, I understand you were defending your friend but I can not abide you attacking another student. Twenty points from Ravenclaw. You will also serve a weeks worth of detention, however I'll let Professor Flitwick decide on how you will spend it. Is that agreeable to you Filius?" He asked Professor Flitwick who had walked up and was standing beside Luna.
"Yes I'll take care of it Severus," the small wizard said.
"Excellent. Good night then." Snape then turned and walked down out of the Great Hall ignoring the bewildered look Albus Dumbledore was giving him.
"Alright to bed all of you!" Minerva said to her Gryffindors who had stayed to watch the spectacle.
"I'm sorry you got in trouble because of me Luna." Hermione said to her.
"It okay Hermione." The blonde smiled, "I'd happily do it again."
Minerva walked by as she said this, "A wonderful display of friendship and bravery. Forty points to Ravenclaw Miss Lovegood." The head of Gryffindor House said, "But do try to think a bit before you act next time."
"Yes ma'am." Luna said.
The next day Harry sat in the Great hall at the end of the Gryffindor table with Hermione, Ginny, Luna, and Draco. Neville had also joined them although he was nervous about the presence of Draco, but Luna was keeping him distracted with fanciful tales of mythical plants. The Heads of their Houses came by and gave them their schedules, shortly after that Ron turned up. He frowned disdainfully at Draco but said nothing looking to Harry.
"Got your schedule mate?" Ron asked.
"Yea though it's a little different from last years." Harry said.
"Different how?" Ron asked. Harry held up his schedule and Ron snatched it out of his hand reading it over, "Harry there must be some mistake this has you in Ancient Runes instead of Divinations. We need to get McGonagall to change this fast."
"That's not a mistake Ron I changed it on purpose." Harry said taking his schedule back from the gawking Ron.
"Why would you change from Divinations to Ancient Runes?" the red head asked, "Divinations is an easy O."
"Because I was getting tired of Trelawney predicting my death every other class." Harry griped, "And Ancient Runes sounded like a much less wasteful use of my time."
"What has gotten into you Harry?" Ron growled, "First you blow me off on the train ride home, then your getting all cozy with Hermione at the World Cup, then you buddying up to Malfoy, and now this?"
"First off, Ronald," Harry said in an irritated tone, "I believe we've already discussed the fact that Draco is now a Black and practically my cousin. Secondly, whatever Hermione and I do together is really none of your business, but were not 'cozy-ing up'. She fell from the Portkey I helped her up and we just happen to accidently get a little too close to one another. And Finally, its come to my attention that I have been woefully underestimating myself when it comes to my education. I am the son of a former Head Girl and Boy who happened to be in the top of their year, not to mention I am the Heir to an Ancient and Most Noble House and I must conduct myself accordingly that means getting the best marks possible and choosing classes that will actually benefit me in the future. So henceforth I will be putting a lot more effort into my studies rather than goofing off. Now if you don't mind the five of us were discussing our summer homework. I assume since your have time to berate me you must have finished yours. Feel free to join us, or don't either way you're interrupting a useful conversation."
Ron stared at Harry his mouth hanging open. He could not believe Harry just spoke to him like that, "Fine be a ridiculous know-it-all like Hermione see if I hang out with you ever again."
"That is the most sensible thing you've said this morning." Harry chimed, "Why don't you go hang out with Seamus? I'm sure he'd love to entertain you with his tongue again."
Ron face twisted into that of disgust and the others around Harry chuckled quietly. He then turned and stormed off out of the Great Hall. "Wow Potter that was utterly vicious of you." Draco said, "Are you sure you're not supposed to be in Slytherin?"
"Well the Sorting Hat did recommend me for Slytherin at first but I made it place me in Gryffindor." Harry said.
"Wow, you even bossed the Sorting Hat around." Neville said, "I had to beg it to put me in Gryffindor like my parents, even though I'm talent-less."
Harry smiled to Neville, "Nev you are a true Gryffindor through and through you are brave when it counts the most, and your not as talent-less as you think."
"He's right Neville." Luna said, "Truthfully I think its your wand that is holding you back. Its your father's right…I don't think it's a good match for you."
Neville pulled out the wand, "But Gran said if it was good enough for my dad it should be good enough for me."
"Neville." Hermione jumped in, "The first thing Mr. Ollivander told me was the wand chooses the witch…or in your case the wizard. Your father's wand chose your father, but you are not your father. Perhaps you should talk to Professor McGonagall see if she can write to your Gran to convince her you need your own wand."
Neville nodded, "I'll try." He said quietly.
Meanwhile, at the Burrow, Arthur Weasley was stomping up the drive Ginny's letter in hand. The look on his face was utter fury. He burst into the house, "MOLLY!" he shouted as he walked into the kitchen to find her scurrying to hide a potion she was brewing.
"Arthur dear, what are you doing home?" She said as she stood in front of the cauldron as if he wouldn't notice the steam rising up behind her.
"Stand aside!" he barked and gently yet forcefully moved her out of the way. He stared down at the potion and new immediately it was, Amortentia. He flipped the cauldron upside down in a rage, "WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING THROUGH THAT HEAD OF YOURS?! TRYING TO DOSE HARRY POTTER WITH LOVE POTIONS SO HELL FALL IN LOVE WITH GINNY?! AND DOING THE SAME TO HERMIONE SO SHE'LL LOVE RON!? ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?!"
Molly trembled a bit at her husbands rage, all the years they were married he had never shouted like this, "Arthur I was just trying to do what's best for our children. Ginny loves Harry I want her to be happy."
"HAVE YOU EVEN ASKED OUR DAUGHTER HOW SHE FEELS ABOUT HARRY?!" he said as he slapped Ginny's letter onto the table.
Mrs. Weasley gently picked it up and began reading with shaky hands:
Daddy,
Daddy you won't believe what I just found out. Mum and Ron have been trying to dose Harry and Hermione with love potions! They are trying to get Harry to fall in love with me and Hermione to fall in love with Ron! I found out this summer the snacks mum sent Harry for his birthday were laced with Amortentia. Harry's godfather noticed immediately and decided to play a prank by sending the sweets to Draco Malfoy, now Black. Then during the World Cup before the match Draco asked me on a date. But just now on the train Draco apologized and said his mother took him to St. Mungos to have him looked at because he was acting strange and they learned he was dosed with a powerful love potion.
Daddy, Harry nor Hermione have any interest in me or Ron. Harry has told me he only sees me as a little sister and I'm perfectly fine with that. I love being his and Hermione's friend. You have to stop mum from doing this anymore. Harry says his godfather will report it next time any potioned snacks arrive for Harry. That will be considered attempted Line Theft. Mum will get five years in Azkaban for that! Please you have to stop her before she ruins our family name!
Your Daughter,
Ginevra Weasley
Molly Weasley teared up a bit as she read the letter, "Arthur I'm sorry I just wanted the children to be happy, And Dumbledore said…"
"What does Dumbledore have to do with this?!" Arthur asked firmly.
"Well…he…he had me brew loyalty potions…he's been giving them to Harry since his first year. To make Harry loyal to him and to Ron." Molly stammered, "He told me it was for the best that Harry be friends with Ron, and that Harry would be better off with our Ginny rather than with Hermione."
"That not for Dumbledore to decide!" Arthur shouted, "Harry should chose who he loves not be forced to love our Ginny just because Dumbledore thinks its for the best! Do you really want our daughter to be in a sham of love affair rather than a true love?"
"No of course not!" Molly cried. The Weasley matriarch began sobbing, "I thought I was doing what was best for them…Arthur I'm so sorry." She reach out to take his hand but Arthur recoiled from her , this made her cry harder.
"I will be going to see Lord Black today and I'll be begging for his forgiveness, and when the children come home for the holidays we will be having a family meeting…all of us. You will tell them what you've done and why and then if the children forgive you I will do my best to do so as well, but know this, I am seriously considering filing for a divorce and if I do know I will file for full custody of our children I will not have you and Albus playing games with our kids lives do you understand me?!" Arthur bellowed.
Molly nodded vigorously, "I do…I do…"
At that moment an owl swooped in carrying a letter from Dumbledore. Arthur took the letter and tried to open it but it would let him. He then thrust it at his wife, "Read it out loud."
Molly took the letter and open it slowly before she read it word for word:
Molly,
I'm sorry to bother you so early in the year but it looks as if a rift is forming between Harry and Ronald. They got into a very public spat this morning over Harry changing his electives. It seem the loyalty potions are wearing off. I need a new batch as soon as possible. Also I'd like you to make some resentment potions one keyed to Hermione Granger and one to Draco Malfoy. They are getting too friendly with Harry it may be best that Ronald is his only friend. Make them strong. Remember, it is in the children's best interest that we do this.
Thank you for your support,
Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore
Head Master of Hogwarts School of Witch Craft and Wizardry
Order of Merlin: First Class
Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot
Supreme Mugwump
Arthur Weasley slammed his hand on the table, "How dare he play with children's lives!" he shouted then turned with his wand pointing at the cauldron on the floor blasting it to ash, "Don't you even think about responding to this letter." He said as he snatched it out of her hands. "I will respond and I'm also turning this over to Amelia Bones as evidence of his actions! You will give her a testimony and beg for leniency in exchange for your cooperation. Until then you are not to leave this house am I understood?!"
Molly once again nodded vigorously, "Yes Dear I swear."
Arthur walked closer to her his face still full of rage, "Make an Unbreakable Vow."
Molly's eyes widened in shock but she did so. She swore in her oath she would not brew any more potions, nor would she attempt to contact Dumbledore, and she would remain in the house until told otherwise. When she finished Arthur calmed a bit then turned and stormed out of the house leaving his wife sobbing on the floor.
Up Next: Dumbledore's plans start to unravel. Harry and his friends learn of a surprising courtship between two of their new acquaintances.
Chapter 15: Backlash
Amelia Bones marched into the Minister's office once again, startling Fudge who was looking over some documents, "A…Amelia…what can I do for you?" he stammered.
"Cornelius…I have some just received some news." Amelia said glaring down at him, "It appears a certain someone has been trying to potion Heir Potter and one of his friends."
"What? Who? Is it Black?" Cornelius asked.
Amelia looked at Cornelius with a shocked expression, "Cornelius need I remind you Lord Black is bonded to Heir Potter by Godfather ritual…he can not purposely cause Harry harm without forfeiting his own life. So no, it is not Lord Black. However, Albus Dumbledore seems inclined to MAKE Harry Potter do what he think is best by potioning him."
"Amelia…you can't walk in here and accuse Albus Dumbledore of potioning Harry Potter without evidence." Fudge groaned.
"I have evidence and the testimony from his potioneer." Amelia said firmly.
Fudge looked at her wide eyed, "Bloody hell we can't have this go public right now Amelia! Not with the Tri-Wizard Tournament underway…We are being watched by everyone!"
Amelia kept her composure even though she'd like nothing more that to shake sense into this old fool, "If we don't do something Lord Black will retaliate and it won't just be against Albus! Do you really want the money and power of the Black family turned against you?"
Fudge paled at the thought, "We must contain this. Postpone any sort of arrest until after the tournament. Feel free to proceed in your investigation but please do not make any formal announcement until after the tournament ends, if the public hears of this there will be riots."
"Fine but if anything happens to Harry Potter I will see to it the public knows you were the one who stopped me." She warned then turned and stormed out leaving Fudge to ruminate on that.
Back at Hogwarts, Albus Dumbledore was working on some of the tournament's finer details. He worked quietly when suddenly the Weasley's owl, Errol, crashed onto the desk Albus jumped and his eyes widened when he saw the red letter attached to the owls leg. Before he could grab it the letter jumped into the air and began shouting in Arthur Weasley's voice:
"HOW DARE YOU!" the letter shouted, "HOW DARE YOU USE MY FAMILY FOR YOUR SCHEMES! YOU LEAVE MY CHILDREN AND THEIR MOTHER OUT OF WHAT EVER PLANS YOU'RE COOKING UP. AND KNOW THIS I HAVE ALREADY TOLD SIRIUS EVERYTHING! YOU BETTER WATCH YOUR BACK ALBUS. THE WEASLEY FAMILY IS DONE WITH YOU!"
After that the letter burst into flames right before the old man's eyes leaving Albus stunned, "Arthur found out…Molly must have been caught but who tipped him off…Sirius?" the old man stood and began pacing, "Perhaps I can convince Severus?" he mumbled, "No, Severus would never agree to potion Lily's son…perhaps Slughorn…he is hard to get in touch with these days though." He ponders even more.
What Albus didn't know was while he was busy thinking about all this out loud his ramblings were being broadcasted to Severus's office by a eavesdropping charm he created himself. It had be place on one of Dumbledore's numerous trinkets, "So he is going to try to get Slughorn to make them." Severus said as he sat in his office listening to the old man ramble on. He then grabbed a piece of parchment and started writing a letter to Sirius.
The next day Sirius came down and was passed a letter from Severus by Narcissa, "He's marked this as important." Narcissa said smiling.
Sirius took the letter and opened it, "Hmmm." He said as he perused Severus's letter. "It seems Dumbledore is planning to have our old Professor Slughorn try an brew him potions now that he's lost Molly."
"Old Slughorn huh?" Narcissa said with a smirk, "What do we do?"
"You were always one of Slughorn's favorites right?" Sirius asked her.
Narcissa smiled, "Indeed, after Lily of course."
"Good, get to him first." Sirius said, "Advise him what will happen if he chooses to side with Dumbledore. Be sure to put it delicately."
"Of course." She said with a sweet smiled, "I'll take care of it."
"Excellent," Sirius smiled, "I'll write to Harry to let him know what's going on."
That night Harry read over a letter from Sirius and smirked, "Sorry Dumbledore but I won't be joining the Slugclub this time around." He said as he tossed the letter into the fire. He then sat back onto the sofa in the Gryffindor common room and resumed working on his homework.
They had barely been back three days and already he had piles of homework. However with his new desire to learn homework came fairly easily, so did his classes. His first day was spent battling Hermione to answer questions in class, between the two of them Gryffindor jumped into the lead for house points, and by the end of the day they were thirty points ahead of Ravenclaw who had gotten a head start thanks to Luna.
"Blimey Harry when did you become so studious?" Dean Thomas had asked him when they left Charms after Harry earned ten points. Harry joked that he just got tired of being in the bottom of the class rankings. This explanation seemed to satisfy most inquirers however one particular person was furious.
Ron was growing exceedingly more annoyed by the day.
He watched Harry with a glare everywhere he went. He had sent a letter to his mother but had yet to receive a response from her in regards to the potions to get Harry back as his best friend. 'He has to give up this stupid bookish side he's developed and come back to Divinations with me.' He thought to himself. He needed the potions, one to get Harry interested in Ginny so he can get Hermione away from him. He was sure Hermione was the root cause of Harry's sudden interest in books and studying, that had to stop. The loyalty potion would make Harry want to hang out with him again instead of Draco then things could go back to normal.
"What the hell is taking mum so long?!" he grumbled as he sat at the Gryffindor table watching Harry at the very end of the table laughing with Hermione, Ginny, Draco, Luna and Neville. 'I should be the only one hanging out with Harry.' He thought, 'I have been with him for three years. I've put up with so much this last three years, that dog of Hagrid's, those damn spiders, and then his godfather nearly bit off my leg.'
As Ron grumbled about this, owls began flooding in with the morning mail. He sat there continuing his grumbles when something crash landed right in front of him. He was startled and jumped then realized it was his family owl, Errol. He smiled, "Finally." He said as he pulled the letter from Errol's leg and tore it open only to find it wasn't a letter from his mother:
Ronald Bilius Weasley!
I can't believe you have been complicit in potioning your classmates! Your sister and mother told me everything and I am very disappointed in you! I wanted to send a Howler but unlike your mother I'd rather not embarrass you in front of your classmates in the Great Hall, but when you come home for Christmas you will be getting an earful and proper punishment. Fortunately for us yours and your mother's schemes never got very far so Lord Black has forgiven us. Your mother is currently on house arrest and probation by the DMLE so there will be no more potions. You will put this foolishness out of your mind and focus on schoolwork. I have sent word to Fred and George and they will be keeping close tabs on you from now on. If you step one toe out of line I will pull you from Hogwarts and send you to the Ministry's Auror Training Institute. Do I make myself clear? I better not hear a single thing about you causing any trouble.
Arthur Weasley
Ron stared down at the letter shaking with rage, 'Ginny told dad? How did she even find out? And now mum is on house arrest? How are we gonna fix things if mom can't make any potions?!' He then glanced down to Harry's group only to find Harry looking right at him with a smirk on his face. 'He knew…he did this! DAMN YOU POTTER!' he crumpled the letter and stood stomping out of the Great Hall.
"What going on with Ron?" Neville asked from his spot beside Luna as they all turned to watch him storm out.
"I'm certain he just learned that he wouldn't be able to pull off anymore sneaky plans." Harry replied.
"Yea it was probably dad." Ginny said, "He wrote me and the twins telling us to watch him like a hawk from now on and to let him know if Ron pulls something."
"Well then we'll leave your brother to you, Fred, and George." Hermione said with a smile.
"We'll handle him don't worry." Ginny said with a smile.
Over the next two months every time the gang saw Ron he was accompanied by the twins. Fred and George would wait outside their younger brother's classroom after every class and followed him everywhere. This irritated Ron to the point where he blew up at them in the middle of the Entrance Hall while they escorted him to Potions class. The youngest male Weasley shouted absurdities at them about them getting in his way and stopping him from helping their family. Fred and George eventually had to drag him back upstairs before their younger brother said anything that could incriminate himself or their mother in front of half the school.
"Merlin, Ron's really lost it." Harry said as they watched from the entrance to the Dungeons.
"Harry, has he tried anything in the dorms?" Draco asked.
"No, fortunately George switched dorm rooms with me with McGonagall's approval. My bed is next to Fred's and McGonagall's put up some protections around it so no one can mess with me while I'm sleeping." Harry explained as they started down.
"I heard McGonagall is pissed." Draco said as they entered the dungeons.
"From what I heard from some sixth years she nearly blew up Dumbledore's office while yelling at him after Sirius sent her a letter requesting she move me out of the same room as Ron and explained why." Harry said.
"Bloody hell I bet that was a sight." Draco said as they entered the dungeon.
Harry sat down with Draco at his right and Hermione at his left. Crabbe and Goyle sat beside Draco while Neville took the spot by Hermione. Harry noticed the rest of the Slytherins were giving Draco dirty looks.
"Seems you're not popular right now." Hermione whispered.
"Yea, Pansy has turned the whole house against me except Vin and Greg." Draco said.
Harry gave Draco an odd look, "Look at you, getting so chummy you're calling people by their first names." He teased.
"Shut up Potter." Draco said rolling his eyes as Harry and Hermione chuckled a bit.
"He's far nicer now that his father is not drugging him." Greg said.
"Speaking of dads how are your mums handling your fathers' arrests?" Harry asked them.
"Well my mum couldn't be happier." Gregory said, "Her marriage was arranged and she wasn't happy about it. Now that he's locked up she's getting a divorce finalized. Vin's mum…not so much"
Vincent sighed, "She was livid after dad got caught at the World Cup she went bonkers. I had to stay with Greg for the rest of the summer."
"Oh dear," Hermione said, "Sorry you have to deal with that."
"I've known who my parents were from the get go." Vincent said, "Greg and I had been planning on running away before our dads got locked up. Fortunately after our dads got caught Greg's mum welcomed me with open arms. I helped them move out of the Goyle Manor and everything."
"You're always welcome with me and mum." Greg took Vincent's hand and gave it a squeeze causing the shorter boy to blush a bit.
Harry and Hermione saw this and their eyes widened a little, Harry then leaned over to Draco and whispered, "Did you know about that?" he said moving his eyes to the two boys' hands.
"No, and it was right under my nose the whole time. They're more affectionate than Sirius and Snape." Draco whispered back.
"Wow…I wasn't the only one messed up on potions." Harry said as Snape entered and began giving them an in-depth lecture on the Shrinking potion.
Up Next: Again Harry is chosen as a Champion but unlike his last life Harry choses to cause a massive scene in front of everyone.
Chapter 16: A Champion Once Again
October thirtieth rolled around which herald in the arrival of the Durmstrang and Beauxbatons students.
Harry was less than impressed with the whole arrival ceremony, he stood next to Hermione and Neville neither of which were all that excited. Draco however was jumping up and down like an excited little kid at the thought of seeing Victor Krum in person. "Black relax!" Harry grumbled to the blonde, "Look, as a fellow famous person I can guarantee he probably doesn't like it when people overly faun over him. Just give him kind praise and then treat him like a normal guy or you'll annoy him."
"Seriously?" Draco looked to Harry with a slight confused expression, "I figured all famous people liked to be fawned over, you know like Lockhart."
"Drake," Harry said using the new nickname he started calling him by, "Lockhart was a talent-less hack who wanted praise. Anyone with real talent more than likely hates being treated more special than they actually are."
"Oh…well I guess I'll try my best…" Draco said the group then joined their respected houses at the table for the feast. Just as before the Beauxbatons students sat with the Ravenclaw's while Durmstrang sat with the Slytherin's, however this go around Draco did not pester Krum this time. Harry watched and the pair of them seemed to be having a pleasant chat rather than one side conversation Harry witnessed in his last life.
Harry then rolled his eyes and groaned when Dumbledore began his big speech before revealing the Goblet of Fire. He looked to Severus once the reveal was done and nodded.
They had a plan.
They knew Crouch Jr. would be getting Harry's name in the Goblet. Whether he did it himself or Imperius Crouch Sr. to do it they weren't sure, but Severus would be using Harry's cloak tonight to watch the goblet to confirm.
Harry was fairly certain that Moody's magical eye and Dumbledore's glasses could see through his cloak in his last life, this had been curious to him. It made no sense for a gift from THE Death could be seen through by mere magical eye or magical glasses.
Over the summer Harry summoned the resurrection stone, and as Death promised the moment Harry touched it the soul piece shattered into dust. Sirius, Hermione, Remus, and Severus watched in astonishment when this happened. The stone turned from obsidian black to a crystal clear diamond. Then right in front of everyone's eyes he summoned his parents.
The spectral forms of Lily and James Potter stood in front of them. Sirius and Remus both hit the floor and sobbed at their feet. James and Lily's ghosts tried to calm them down but they weren't able to touch them. Severus just stood before Lily and cried blubbering how sorry he was.
After what felt like forever the trio calmed enough to have a proper conversation.
Harry asked his father about the cloak and why it seemed Dumbledore and Moody were able to see through Death's cloak. James scoffed and told him Dumbledore tampered with the cloak. James showed them a single thread that did not match the silvery silky material.
It was a fine red thread that had been expertly woven into the fabric.
James explained that the thread was soaked in Dumbledore's blood and it caused the magic of the cloak to be hindered. Severus, having the most steady hand, slowly removed the thread. James assured them with that thread gone NO ONE not even Death would be able to see the wearer.
With the cloak returned to its natural state it was once again the ultimate way to hide oneself so Severus would be able to stand right next to the Goblet without being seen by anyone. Harry wanted definitive proof via a memory that he was forced into this tournament. He wasn't going to have anyone try claiming he cheated his way into the tournament this time. He also planned to have witnesses.
He, Hermione, Ginny, and Neville would be in the common room for the entire night under the guise of studying. There, people would be able to see them as the other students come and go from submitting their own names. McGonagall would also be making periodical visits throughout the night.
The following day they intended to remain in the library in clear view of Madam Pince and everyone who came in. No one would be able to say Harry or his friends went anywhere near the Goblet. These measures would in turn block anyone from claiming Harry had himself entered.
When the Champion Ceremony came Harry sat at the far end of the Great Hall closest to the door. Hermione and Draco sat beside him, whilst Ginny, Luna, and Neville were seated behind them on the stadium like seats. Harry hadn't let Ginny, Neville, and Draco in on the fact his name was going to come out of the Goblet.
In his last life he remembered after his name was called he simply walked up in a daze this time though he was prepared. He wasn't about to make it easy for this to all be pinned on him.
The Ceremony began and just like before Victor was the first Champion chosen, followed by Fleur, then lastly Cedric.
The entire hall was applauding believing that was the end of it when the Goblet began acting strange. Harry looked on as well giving his best shocked expression as the Goblet shot out a fourth parchment. Harry knew what was coming next, Dumbledore reached up and plucked the parchment out of the air. After opening it up he called out, "Harry Potter…"
Harry didn't move, he began whispering around to his friends when Dumbledore called his name again only more firmly. Harry then stood, "What this about?" he called loudly.
Dumbledore stood there slightly surprised at Harry's outburst, he hadn't expected Harry to make a scene, "You've been chosen as a participant."
"Uh no!" Harry said firmly this caused everyone to gasp, "I'm fourteen! I'm not doing this crazy tournament!" he shouted.
Dumbledore blinked he could not believe the shy timid boy was openly causing a commotion in front of everyone, "Harry your name came out of the goblet, you have no choice."
Harry gawked, "What do you mean 'no choice'!?" he barked, "I am fourteen years old the rules clearly stated the contestants must be seventeen. I'm not doing it!" Harry said flatly and openly defying Dumbledore in front of everyone. "I'm am the last remaining Heir of the Potter family I'll be damned if I put my family lineage on the line just to compete in some crazy tournament. So I wanna know who did this!"
"I beg your pardon?" Dumbledore asked confused he could not understand where the boys sudden confidence came from.
"I said I want to know who is responsible for my name coming out of that Goblet!" Harry demanded, "As Heir to the Potter family whoever put my name in that Goblet in an attempt to get me to compete in this tournament has committed a grave offense! Forcing me to compete in a tournament that could likely kill me is nearly the same as attempted murder and Line Theft. I want the culprit found immediately!"
Albus stood there practically dumbfounded, the next person to speak up was Igor Kakaroff, "And `ow do we know you did not do it yourself?"
Harry turned his attention to the Durmstrang Headmaster, "Headmaster Kakaroff tell me, what reason would I have to try an enter this tournament?" he asked him, "My family is already extremely wealthy, a mere 100,000 galleons wouldn't even put a dent into the Potter Family fortune. And as far as 'Eternal Glory'…I believe everyone here knows my story so what use would I have for that? I destroyed the most powerful Dark Wizard alive when I was still in diapers? I believe I have plenty of glory already."
The entire hall gasped, "Did he really just say that?" someone whispered.
"But he's got a point." Another said.
"Yea Harry Potter has no need to be in this tournament." Came another voice.
"Monsieur Potter…" Madam Maxime spoke up. The gargantuan woman stepped forward, "Can you confirm your whereabouts during the time names were being put in ze Goblet?" She asked in her French accent.
"Yes I can." Harry said, "Last night after the feast I was in the Gryffindor Common Room with my housemates until about three in the morning then I went to bed."
"Do you `ave witnesses?" the woman asked.
"Many." Harry retorted, "Aside from Neville Longbottom, Ginevra Weasley, and Hermione Granger, Professor McGonagall can also confirm this."
All eyes turned to Minerva McGonagall, "Indeed, I walked numerous sixth and seventh years back to Gryffindor tower that night after they entered their own names. Mister Potter was in the Common Room each time I returned. Except the last time. The only ones remaining was Mister Longbottom and Miss Weasley. They were studying."
"That's right!" Neville shouted standing up, "Harry had gone to bed. Ginny and I stayed down in the Common Room until about six in the morning! Harry never came back down after he went to bed."
"Potter was still in bed when I woke up this morning." Fred stood up tall and spoke loudly in front of everyone.
"And after you woke?" The Beauxbaton's Headmistress asked.
"I spent my day in the library with Hermione, Luna, and Draco. Madam Pince can attest to that." Harry responded.
"He's right." The Hogwarts librarian said, "Mister Potter and his friends were in the library up until the ceremony the five of us came down together."
"As you can see I have had no opportunity to be put my name in the Goblet so I again demand an investigation!" Harry bellowed.
"An' 'ow do we know you didn't `ave someone else put your name in?" Kakaroff barked.
"Need I repeat myself?" Harry snapped, "What purpose would I have to enter this stupid tournament. Not only am I underage with only a fourth year education. I'm already plenty wealthy and famous I do don't need to be in this crazy tournament. If you don't have anything more useful to say kindly shut up."
Everyone gasped, Dumbledore seemed to finally regained his senses and stepped forward, "Harry that is no way to speak to a guest."
"Excuse me," Harry growled back, "but this 'guest' keeps insinuating I wanted to be in this ridiculous tournament. I've had enough of this farce! I'll will personally be holding you responsible for this! Your ridiculous Age Line was ineffective someone clearly found away around it so I blame you for this!"
The entire hall gasped at that statement as Dumbledore stared down at Harry with a shocked looked as Harry looked at him sternly. Dumbledore clenched his fist he couldn't make a scene in front of all these people. "You're right…" the old man bowed slightly, "I'm truly sorry this was my error. I assure you I will find out who did this, but unfortunately Harry you have no choice but to compete. The Goblet of Fire creates a magically binding contract with whomever has their name come out of it."
Harry scoffed when Bagman motioned for him to come join the other competitors. He begrudgingly went with him. Harry stood in the corner of the room with the most annoyed expression on his face. He barely paid attention as the officials gave them their brief and vague explanation of what the first task would entail. When they finished Harry stormed out of the room thoroughly confusing the other competitors. As he walked by his Headmaster Harry shot him a glare before stomping past him.
When he returned to the now empty Great Hall he found Draco, Hermione, Neville, and Luna waiting for him. "Thanks for waiting guys."
"Are you okay Harry?" Hermione asked walking up to him.
"Yea I'm alright." He smiled and pet her head gently.
"Seems someone is trying to killing you Potter." Draco said as he stood at the door his arms crossed, "While your plan was well thought out, please clue me in next time." He said, "The Black family is aligned with the Potter family now. Your problems are my problems same goes for your enemies."
"Thanks," Harry said smiling, "We'll have a detailed discussion later." He smiled.
"Fine…" Draco sighed, "I'm headed to bed." He said as he turned and headed for the dungeons.
As Draco walked down Severus came up, they gave each other polite greetings before Draco continued on, "Potter." Snape called from the entrance to the Dungeon, "My office now."
"You guys head to bed." He said to the other three, "I'll see you soon." Then followed Severus down into the dungeons.
Once they arrived in the Potion master's office Severus sealed the door and cast numerous privacy charms then walked over to the fire throwing some floo powder in. Moments later Sirius stepped through. "Geeze so dusty." The Black Head dusted himself off. He looked up at Harry, "There's my Godson." He smiled and pulled Harry into a hug, "Are you ok?"
"Yea, I just hope everyone believes it wasn't me this time." Harry said quietly.
"I'm sure they do Harry, but that's not the reason I came tonight." Sirius said as he pulled Harry away. "I received this letter about thirty minutes ago. It's from Gringotts." He held it out to Harry.
Harry took the letter and began reading it:
Lord Black,
I am hereby writing to inform you that as of ten thirty this evening your ward Harry James Potter is hereby legally emancipated. After a creation of a magically binding contract through the Goblet of Fire, Harry James Potter in now considered legally of age in the magical community. This means Heir Potter can now take up his Lordships to the Potter and Peverell houses. This also will removed the Trace from Heir Potter as he is now, for all intents and purposes, a legal adult.
Regards,
Ragnok VII
Head Account Manager of Gringotts
Potter Family Account Manager
"What on earth is this about?" Harry said looking at the two adults.
"Its as it says Harry you are now legally an adult." Sirius said.
"But this didn't happen last time?" Harry said confused, "My name came out of the goblet and I still got in trouble the following summer when I used the Patronus charm to fend off some dementors that attacked me.
"Hmmm." Severus seemed to be thinking, "That was probably Dumbledore's meddling again. He was your guardian in your last life. He more than likely secretly disputed your emancipation and pulled strings to get it revoked. However this time Sirius is your guardian so he received the letter."
"So then…I can now use magic outside school without getting in trouble?" Harry asked to confirm.
"That's correct Prongslet. Your legally a grown up." Sirius rubbed his head.
"Holy shit!" Harry said as he sat down in Severus chair, "I need to go claim my Lordships now…oh no, that means I'll be a Lord now."
Sirius laughed heartily, "Yup, you're in the same boat as me now!"
"Shut up dog!" Harry barked, then group of them laughed together.
"You'll do fine Potter," Severus said, "You have Lily's brain and James's cunning you'll be able to handle it."
Harry sighed, "Thanks Professor."
Up Next: Harry goes to Gringotts to claim his Lordships but later learns of another powerful ally he has on his side.
Chapter 17: Lord Potter
The following morning Harry took the letter he received from Sirius to McGonagall and requested she allow him to go to Gringotts that weekend. Minerva McGonagall stared at the letter in utter shock. "You've reached your majority…" she looked up at him.
"Indeed…I have to go to Gringotts to claim my Lordships." He smiled at her, "You're welcome to accompany me if it will put you at ease." Harry smiled.
McGonagall sighed, "Very well I will accompany you to Gringotts this weekend. Albus will be busy with tournament preparations so I will chaperone you."
"About that…as this is a Potter family matter I would appreciate if you would keep this from the Headmaster." Harry looked at her with a smile, "also I was hopping you'd allow Hermione to join us."
Minerva eyes her pupil sternly, "Very well. I will meet you and Miss Granger in the Great Hall at ten Saturday morning. As you request, I will keep this from the Headmaster."
"Thank you Professor." Harry smiled as he stood and headed out of her office, "I'll see you tomorrow morning."
The following morning Harry and Hermione came down the stairs dressed in muggle attire, "Are we really going to Diagon Alley?" she asked.
"Shhhh." He said, "Yes now come on McGonagall is waiting." Harry grabs her hand and pulls her to the door.
McGonagall smirked a little as they approached but that smirk vanished as quickly as it appeared. "Are you ready Potter?"
"Yes ma'am…" Harry looked around, "I assume the Headmaster is busy."
"Indeed, he is currently working with the Tournament staff, we should be off now." The stern woman then led the two of them onto the grounds then down the path to the gate. Once they crossed the gate line, Minerva held out an arm to each of them, "Now grab a hold." She told them.
"Hermione fair warning…you might hurl." Harry said as he took his Head of House's arm.
"What?" Hermione asked alarmed.
"Side-Along Apparition can do that." Harry said, "Personally I prefer portkeys."
Hermione nervously took McGonagall's arm, "Hang on tight." The Professor said and with a CRACK, the three of them were gone.
The moment the three of them touched down Hermione kneeled over and hurled behind a rubbish bin. "`Mione are you okay?" Harry asked as he rubbed her back.
"Ugh…" the girl sat up a bit, "That was the worst."
"I told you." Harry said with a slight chuckle, "Portkeys are much easier."
"I think I'll have to agree with you." She said as McGonagall vanished her students throw up.
"You get used to it after awhile just like with portkey landings." She told her students, "I'm surprised Harry, you seem to have done this before."
Harry smiled nervously, "Yea once or twice."
"Well onward then, Gringotts is up ahead." The stern woman said as she walked towards the marble building. "Come along."
Harry and Hermione followed her into the building. As soon as they entered Harry spotted his Account Manager Ragnok waiting for him in the lobby. "Ah Heir Potter." The sharply dressed goblin said as he walked up to them, "Your Godfather told me you be visiting today I thought to meet you in the lobby, just in case."
"I appreciate it Master Ragnok." Harry gave a polite bow.
The goblin glanced in Minerva's direction, "Heir Potter will Madam McGonagall be joining us to the vaults?"
"Yes, I am emancipated however I'm still a student so she is here as my chaperone." Harry smiled kindly.
"Very well, seeing as Madam McGonagall was one of your potential guardians in your parents Wills I can allow it." The goblin said and started turn away.
"I beg your pardon?" Minerva spoke up, "Sir Goblin, what did you just say?"
Ragnok turned back to her, "It is as I said before, you, Minerva McGonagall, were a potential guardian for Harry Potter. Fourth on the list to be exact after Remus Lupin."
Upon hearing this Minerva put her hands to her temples as if she was experiencing some pain, "Professor?" Hermione took her arm concerned.
"Sir Ragnok…" the stern woman grumbled, "Might I trouble you to direct me to one of your healers…I appear to be experiencing some side affects of memory modification."
"Professor are you sure?" Hermione asked. When their professor nodded she looked to Harry, "What do we do?"
Harry turned to his account manager, "Sir Ragnok is it possible to accommodate her request?"
The goblin snapped his fingers and two other goblins walked up, "Escort Madam McGonagall to the medical wing have our best healers look her over."
The goblins bowed and started escorting Minerva away she stopped a moment, "Please keep and eye on them sir goblin."
"Your charges will be safe in my care." Ragnok bowed his head to her a bit, "No harm shall befall them in goblin territory I guarantee it."
With that their professor was led away, "Will she be okay?" Hermione asked Ragnok.
"She will be fine Madam Granger. Our healers will have her right as rain by the time we get back from the vaults. Now come Heir Potter."
Harry and Hermione followed, and soon they were deep beneath the surface. Harry stood in the center of the Potter family vault as he did when he came to claim the Heir ring. He followed Ragnok's instructions and held out his right hand. The Potter Heir ring suddenly appeared on his hand, "I, Harry James Potter, Heir to the Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter, hereby claim my right as Lord of the Potter House after reaching my majority through magical emancipation."
The room swirled with magic as it had done before only this time much more. The stone pillar rose from the floor as it had before. The spot were the Heir ring once sat now had another hole right next to it. "Return the Heir ring and take the Lord's ring Lord Potter." Ragnok told him.
Harry nodded and did as was told swapping the rings, the Lord's ring was pure white gold the top of the ring was flat and engraved with the Potter family crest with four tiny rubies at the top, bottom, left, and right of the crest. Harry slipped it on to his middle finger where the Heir ring once was. It shrunk to fit his finger perfectly as the magic swirled around the room again. Just then the three large gold doors around the room opened up revealing what was hidden within.
One contained priceless jewels and treasures including the artifacts that had once been Horcruxes. The second room was filled with rare tomes, books, and scrolls, and the final room was filled with mounds upon mounds of gold.
"Oh bloody hell!" Harry gawked at the sight, "I knew I was rich….but not this rich!"
"Lord Potter," Ragnok spoke up, "Do not forget there is still the Peverell family vault as well.
Harry's face paled a bit, "Can I expect a same within that vault?"
"Indeed." The goblin said.
"Oh god…" Harry chuckled nervously, "If Voldemort knew how much money I had he might try to recruit me not kill me."
The group moved over to the Peverell vault and followed the same procedure. The Peverell ring was about the same size as the Potter ring but solid gold, and just like with the Potter ring the top was flat with the Peverell family crest that had four small emerald gems surrounding it. Just like when he slipped on the Potter Ring the golden doors swung open, causing Harry's jaw to drop once again. "How…how can one person be this bloody rich?" he asked himself.
"Harry, when we have more time, I'd love to peruse the books in both vaults." Hermione said looking in the room which was filled with documents, books, and scrolls.
Harry started laughing, "Figures that would be what you'd be most interested in. Though I'm curious to look myself?" he looks to Ragnok, "Is there a catalog or inventory list for both libraries?"
"Seeing as neither have been used in quite sometime those lists have been misplaced. However I will get one of our men to make a new inventory list for both libraries as soon as possible." The goblin bowed.
"I'd appreciate it and I supposed you can temporarily suspend my trust vault and put all my gold back in the Potter family vault." Harry said.
"Very well shall we return to the top?" Ragnok asked.
"Yes lets go." Harry said as he took Hermione's hand, "Come on, once I have that list you can choose however many books you want and read them at your leisure."
"Ugh…fiiine." She grumbled and let herself be pulled away as she continued to look longingly at the books.
Back above ground the two were being led by Ragnok to the Medical wing. Just as they were approaching the room McGonagall was in the two of them heard their head of house scream in a thick Scottish accent, "I'M GOING TO KILL THAT SON OF A BITCH!"
The two looked at one another in utter shock as they heard their prim and proper Head of House curse like a sailor. They entered the room, "Professor McGonagall?" they said in unison.
When Minerva whipped around and spotted Harry she started crying, "Oh Harry." She rushed over and hugged him tightly.
"Um Professor? Are you okay?" Harry asked nervously.
"Oh Harry I'm so sorry." The usually stern woman said as she hugged him closely, "If that bastard hadn't changed my memories I would have never left you on those people's doorstep."
"Professor does this have anything to do with what my parents Wills said about you being my father's Godmother?" Harry asked.
"Yes." She pulled him away from her, "I was in school with your grandmother Dorea. She was a Black at the time and the top of her year. We had become close over the years even though she was two years ahead of me. Though she was a Black she never disparaged me for being a half-blood. After she graduated she married Charles Potter and the two tried for years to have a child. After three miscarriages she nearly gave up hope. We spent lots of time together during those years. I would comfort her after each loss. Years went by and she finally gave birth to your father. I was named his Godmother, your father was a handful even before he went to Hogwarts."
Harry laughed a bit, "I don't doubt you."
"After your grandparents were murdered and your parents went into hiding. Dumbledore saw to it to modify my memories…making me forget about my connection to the Potter Family." She looked down at him with a sad smiled, "Had I had my memories I never would have left you on that doorstep. I'm so sorry."
"I understand Professor." Harry smiled up at her, "and I know you want to take revenge on Dumbledore but we can't have you doing that right now."
The woman's jaw dropped, "I can not allow him to get away with this? Not only did he tamper with my memories, he also left you in that horrid place, then potioned you for 3 years. Your practically my grandson I can not allow this to stand." She said firmly.
"Professor," Harry sighed, "Dumbledore will pay but first we must worry about Voldemort. Once we get rid of Voldypants for good then we will deal with Dumbledore…until then I need you to act as if nothing has changed between you and Dumbledore."
She eyed him curiously, "You're scheming something aren't you?"
Harry simply smiled, "Maaaybe. If you want to know more come to Grimmauld Place after the Yule Ball."
Minerva looked surprised, "How much do you know?"
"I'd say a bit more than you." Harry smiled at her.
"Oh you…you're just like your father cunning, but you have your mother's mind." She cupped Harry's face, "Alright I'll do a you ask and hold back my anger for now."
"Thank you." Harry smiled, "I think we should head back to Hogwarts."
She sighed, "Very well. Let us return." And with that the three of them left the Gringotts and returned to Hogwarts with a new ally on their side.
Up Next: Harry sneaks his friends off to Diagon Alley for a bit of shopping.