Chapter 9
Narcissa Malfoy awoke in strange surroundings and it took a moment to realize where she was, sleeping on a sofa with Pansy Parkinson curled up in her lap. Both had talked and cried long into the night about the situation they now found themselves in.
They had both dutifully stayed by the bodies of their departed and hadn't heard the radio broadcast so neither knew the identity of their new lord. The speculation got wilder as both tried for an explanation to the predicament that they now found themselves in but sleep had eventually overcome their fears.
Narcissa looked down at the young girl and could understand why their lord would put Pansy in such an apartment but her, now that was a mystery. Narcissa knew she was still an attractive woman, the appreciative glances cast by men when she was draped on Lucius arm were the only reason she was allowed to leave the Manor, her husband liked to display his possessions but she could not compete with this young girl.
She sat there deliberating at which exact point her life had turned to shit!
When growing up she had been happy and very close to her sisters Bellatrix and Andromeda but that all started changing when their father began marriage negotiations. Bella was contracted to Rudolphus Lestrange and dutifully complied while Andi refused point blank to become father's bargaining tool. This ended with her being disowned from the family leaving Narcissa to be sold to the Malfoy's!
It wasn't too bad at first, there always seemed to be a function to attend which of course required a new dress but no sooner was she pregnant than Lucius moved her into a self contained apartment inside the mansion or the plush prison as she came to call it. Her husband never entered the marital bed again, Draco was born and the Malfoy family had its heir.
Draco eventually became the biggest disappointment of her life! She had such high hopes for her son in the beginning but his fathers influence gradually strangled any good or decency that was in his body leaving behind a husk filled with arrogance, hate and jealousy - there wasn't room for anything else.
When removing his father's ring the scathing look Draco gave her sent feelings of fear and revulsion down her spine and she knew within herself that had he not been killed she, his mother would've had to do it herself, preferably before he raped her!
Voldemort was another major factor in ruining her life; he murdered cousin Regulus, Sirius was in Azkaban with Bella before escaping while Lucius used gold to buy his freedom but spent the rest of his life waiting on his lord returning.
The conversations with Pansy throughout the night was by far the most contact with another human being she'd had in many years and when totalling up the balance sheet of her life to date the total at the bottom was a big fat zero.
Thinking your life was over was bad enough but what can you do when it never really began!
Pansy stirred on her lap and Narcissa couldn't help but feel the young girl had a lucky escape with her son's death, Lucius had at least treated her with respect while Draco had never learnt the meaning of the word.
As Pansy woke breakfast appeared on the table and the women knew that whoever this new lord was at least they were being cared for.
Harry and Hermione entered Ragnok's office to be met with a rather sheepish looking Emma Granger as she explained her titanic breech of etiquette.
Hermione had seen the twinkle in Ragnok's eye so decided to play along "well mother the only way I see to resolve this issue without causing a major diplomatic incident would be for you to promise Director Ragnok a dance at the wedding!"
Ragnok couldn't remember when he laughed so much as Hermione started him off again, after regaining his composure he stood and bowed "It would be my honour to dance with any of the lovely ladies present and my wish to dance with each of you at least once! Mrs Potter my offer of a job still stands, any job!"
Harry explained the situation with the Aurors and Ginny immediately jumped to her feet and was reaching for her wand when a pair of arms circled her body, pulling her tightly into Harry's chest.
She felt his breath on her neck as he whispered "Ginny, you're a Potter now and we at least try to think before springing into action. You were about to draw your wand, inside Gringotts and in the presence of the goblin leader. Even I couldn't have saved you!"
Any thoughts Ginny had about how good it felt to be in Harry's arms promptly disappeared as the reality of what she so nearly did hit home, the colour drained from her face and the strong arms that encompassed her young body were now necessary for her remaining upright. She felt sick!
Harry was still whispering in her ear "It's Ok Ginny, you didn't do anything, I promised I'd look after you and I always keep my promises"
He then spoke to everyone in the room "if you would excuse us for just a moment Miss Potter is felling a bit under the weather" with that he literally picked Ginny up and carried her out the room.
A second after leaving Ginny held onto Harry and was sobbing "Oh Harry I'm so sorry, a Potter less than five minutes and already an embarrassment! Its not to late Hermione hasn't signed it yet we can stop…"
Harry placed a finger to her lips silencing the self-recriminations
"Listen Ginny, we all make mistakes but the important thing is that we learn from them. You were ready to draw that wand of yours and do battle with Aurors to protect Hermione and I. While I admire your devotion it's you I love and I want to see the spectacular woman that you become! That won't happen if you can't control that temper because it's going to get you into serious trouble. Being a Potter will bring its share of troubles without needlessly creating any more!"
Looking into those green eyes and seeing the love he obviously felt for her melted Ginny's heart.
When she'd screwed up before the resulting screaming match rattled the burrow windows and lasted for hours now here was Harry calmly explaining the situation and asking, yes asking her to try and control her temper.
How could you not love this man! "I'm sorry Harry, I'll try really hard to change for you"
Harry took her face in his hands and kissed her forehead "Ginny you misunderstood, I never want you to change just try and think before you act!"
"Oh you mean like tackling a sixty foot basilisk with a sword? Something like that Harry?" teased Ginny, which earned her a playful swat to the butt as they headed back to join the company.
They all agreed that the Wizengamot would have to be faced sometime and getting dragged in there by some old fart's summons was not the first impression the Potters wished to make.
Winky was going to take Emma and a protesting Ginny back to their apartments in Hogwarts, Harry had to threaten Gin with moving back to her dorm but as both knew the school was emptying today before work began tomorrow she understood Harry wanted her safe so agreed to his plan.
Winky returned with Hermione's armour as the couple hoped they had time for one last piece of business before the Aurors arrived.
Narcissa and Pansy had just finished lunch and were beginning to wonder if they'd been forgotten about when there was a knock at the door, both looked at each other before Narcissa got up to answer. The couple standing there had not even been mentioned in all their hours of guessing!
"May we come in?" asked Harry as they entered the room removing their cloaks before sitting "please excuse the attire, we're expecting trouble later"
The two women were confused but it was Pansy who recovered first "Potter, Granger what the hell are you two doing here?"
Hermione answered "actually Pansy it's Lord and Lady Gryffindor and we're your head of house!"
"Could you please tell us what's going on? Why did my husband and Pansy's father die? What happened to Draco and why have we been brought here?" Narcissa knew she was rambling but couldn't help herself she needed answers!
"Mrs. Malfoy we're here to answer all your questions so please bare with us. Hermione and I killed Voldemort and claimed rights of conquest. This also caused all his marked death eaters to die and all their property pass to us"
Narcissa baulked at Harry's words "Does this mean we're your wives?"
Hermione smiled "no Harry and I are soul bonded so he becomes your head of house, Draco tried to use a killing curse on a goblin in the middle of Gringotts!"
His mother and girlfriend couldn't believe it, there must be a surer way to get yourself killed than pulling a wand on a goblin in Gringotts its just that no one had found it yet.
Harry continued "the families of death eaters spent an unpleasant night in accommodation designed to make them consider their life choices. Pansy you lost a father and boyfriend while Mrs. Malfoy, your husband and sister died from their mark while Draco's temper cost him his life. We felt you both had suffered enough."
"We are attempting to change the wizarding world to end bigotry against everything and everyone who isn't a pure blood male! As members of the Potter house you have options and choices with your life" said Hermione
The fact that Hermione was speaking and Harry nodding with agreement impressed the women almost as much as the words she spoke
"Pansy we spoke to your mother and sister who know your safe, Hogwarts closed today for a massive refit and curriculum review but when it opens new rules will ban bullying in any form from staff or pupils. The choice to return is yours"
Pansy just nodded her agreement to Hermione, what else was she going to do!
One down, one to go thought Harry as he turned his attention onto the blond woman "Mrs. Malfoy I don't know anything about you other than what Sirius has told me and his information is a bit out of date! To be honest he takes great delight in setting me up so why don't you tell us what you want!"
Narcissa had information overload and someone asking her opinion for the first time in years! She got up and got a glass of water to give her brain time to shake off over a decade of slumber. Could this be her second chance at a life?
"You know Sirius? Have you spoken to him?" asked Narcissa
"He's my godfather and broke out of Azkaban to protect me, Sirius has just been pardoned and we're all living at Hogwarts for the moment"
"You asked me what I want but surely as my head of house it's you who should be telling me what to do! My status at the moment is a slave to your house"
"If you want to live by those laws then fine but you are being offered a chance to be what you want to be. You are free to choose, even marry again as long as it's your choice."
"Pansy the first thing I did was dissolve all pending marriage contracts in my house when you want to marry it will be your decision!" said Harry
This was a revelation too far for Narcissa "have we got anything stronger than water in this place?"
Hermione laughed "my parents needed a few brandies to get their heads round this as well. Winky!" the elf appeared wearing her tunic and cloak "could you please get Mrs. Malfoy a brandy Winky"
"Ok Hermione, would anyone else like anything?" asked Winky
"Any news from Amelia yet Winky?"
"No Harry though Ragnok is monitoring the situation" Winky was gone but quickly back with Narcissa's brandy before leaving again
Narcissa took the brandy though seeing an elf looking and behaving like that probably left her needing another.
As the drink made its way into her bloodstream she spoke "I graduated Hogwarts with five NEWT's at O but the minute I was Mrs. Malfoy my opinion didn't count, life consisted of being wheeled out for public appearances then put back in my box! You ask me what I want and I have no idea except to stop calling me Mrs. Malfoy I hate that name!"
Harry knew he had a convert "we have a few positions you might be interested in or recommend someone for Miss Black"
Narcissa replied "if you can do that I'll scrub the floors for you"
Hermione smiled "we can do that easy and there's no need to scrub floors as we've got Mrs. Flint for that"
"That's another story love and we don't have time for it right now. Hogwarts is undergoing huge changes with the aim of graduating students being comfortable in either muggle or magical world. We need someone to teach wizarding culture as a student from muggle upbringing hasn't a clue how the wizarding world operates. From the basics of magical households to how the ministry works."
"The classes will be magical/muggle upbringing so each can help in their better subject. We are not trying to judge one system over the other just show the benefits of each and take away the fear that Voldemort played on. We also need a head of Slytherin as Sirius nearly wet himself laughing when we asked him!"
Hermione took over seamlessly which was something they were doing now without realising "we are also in the process of purchasing the Daily Prophet but we want it to print the truth, not any rubbish they come up with over a few drinks at lunch. We need an editor who will insure the paper prints facts and the job comes with a guarantee we will not interfere. Print what you like even about us as long as it's the truth!"
"Finally we are going to need a private secretary as our days just get crazier but we'll soon be deluged with people wanting us to endorse this or donate to that and attend whatever. We want to promote change but have no intention of running the magical world. What we want is good people in the right jobs and leave them to get on with it so we can live our lives with as much privacy as possible!"
Narcissa wished she hadn't drunk all the brandy; as she needed some now, talk about life changing decisions!
She looked at Pansy who seemed more interested in the couple than their ideas, which she knew, would rock the pureblood society to its very foundations.
They would come out fighting!
"We are not expecting any decisions today Miss Black we just wanted to give you a few options" said Harry
"The pair of you don't do things by half!" laughed Narcissa
"Potters don't do normal is the new family motto" joked Hermione
"When did you two get married?" asked Pansy but they were saved from telling the story by Winky's appearance
"There's a group of twenty Aurors heading towards Gringotts Harry, do you wish me to fetch Dobby?" asked Winky
"Sorry Winky, Hermione and I will handle this. It's our fight"
"Your wrong Harry this is everyone's fight and Dobby would be most upset to miss it. The goblin guards are currently drawing lots as Ragnok has limited their number to four though I believe both him and Griphook drew lots as well."
"She's right Harry, can we get some protection for my father before Dobby leaves Winky?"
"There's three elves on the way and Dobby will be here directly" Winky hardly got the words out when Dobby appeared
"Harry and Hermione weren't going into a battle without their friends were they?"
Hermione laughed and kissed the top of his head "wouldn't dream of it Dobby"
"You can't be the Dobby that used to work for the Malfoy's?" said Narcissa
"I am and I would say I'm sorry to hear about your husband and son but Harry hates when someone lies so I wont!" snarled Dobby who looked ready for a fight so the couple put there cloaks on and left with the elves, there was nothing left to say after Dobby's remark
Three goblin guards and a grinning Griphook were waiting for them "so what have we got Griphook?" asked Harry
"We have twenty Aurors under the leadership of Rufus Scrimgeour in the lobby of Gringotts demanding we hand you over, what's the plan?"
Hermione gave that smile which would have sent a shiver of fear through the goblins if directed at them "we're going to mess with their heads a bit but when the fighting starts lets keep a measured response, try and not injure them too badly but if someone goes down I don't want it to be one of this group understand"
They understood, don't kill just beat them up some but if the other side start throwing lethal curses all bets were off.
The group walked into the lobby with Harry and Hermione in front, Dobby and Winky either side with the goblins covering their backs
An Auror they took to be Rufus Scrimgeour stepped forward a deep loud voice proclaimed, "in the name of the Wizengamot I demand…"
"STOP" yelled Harry "who are you and the Wizengamot can't demand anything, its head is currently in goblin prison where we put him for being a megalomaniacal bastard so tell me who sent you!"
Before he could answer a badge flew from an Auror and landed at the lead Auror's feet
"This is bullshit and you know it Scrimgeour" shouted Tonks walking from the Auror ranks and heading towards Harry "we should be honouring these people not trying to arrest them on some trumped up charge so you can take my badge and stick it up your arse!"
As she got to Harry, wand in hand "I swear allegiance to the House of Potter" as a glow left her wand and entered Harry he bowed then hugged the young ex-Auror.
Scrimgeour looked apoplectic and seemed to develop a facial twitch as he fought for control of his emotions, young upstart he'd show him "my name is Rufus Scrimgeour and I'm head of the Auror Office here on behalf of the Wizengamot to demand…"
"I WANT A NAME RUFUS!" shouted Harry, "who gave you the orders I want to know where to send the body parts"
Scrimgeour continued, " to demand that Harry James Potter and Hermione Jane Granger attend…"
Harry exploded "That's Lord and Lady Gryffindor to you arsehole, you have insulted my wife I demand satisfaction!"
"I accept the challenge," said Scrimgeour stepping forward and assuming a duelling position
Harry stepped forward as the sword of Gryffindor appeared in his hand
"I choose wands!" shouted Rufus Scrimgeour
"I don't have one," said Harry
"Too bad" was the comment as Scrimgeour fired a reducto curse straight at Harry's chest only to see his curse come straight back at him and blow his wand arm clean off just below the shoulder.
"Did I say I didn't have a wand" said Harry as he walked over to the prone figure of Rufus Scrimgeour and placed the sword at his throat "actually what I meant to say was that I don't need one, now I want that name!"
Rufus Scrimgeour was not a coward but neither was he an idiot and one look at the fire in those green eyes told him that he needed to give the name or take up sword swallowing! "Tim Davis" he croaked.
Harry turned to see the magnificent seven had downed every Auror and Tonks was standing there looking like she just made the best decision of her life.
"Everyone ok" asked Harry and got beaming smiles in return. The goblins had used the flat of their blades to cause headaches, which was better than headless while Hermione and the elves had stunned over half the Aurors in just a few seconds.
Tonks asked, "wont you be in serious trouble for attacking Aurors Harry?"
Harry just laughed "Tonks I would be in more trouble for telling everyone your first name, yes Sirius told me! Hermione and I are friends of the goblin nation, we are in Gringotts so perfectly entitled to defend ourselves and none of our group used wands. We didn't break a single law, as the Aurors have no authority here"
Hermione and the elves had all the Aurors bound while Griphook arranged for a medic to treat Scrimgeour's stump "Ok who's for a trip to the ministry?" asked Harry
The old timers in Diagon Alley thought they had seen it all but today proved them wrong as an unbelievable spectacle made its way down the centre of the street.
Harry and Hermione marched at the front with Dobby and Winky ether side and all four had the cloak action going but even this was only a small part of the parade as line abreast nineteen unconscious and bound Aurors floated behind with goblin guards walking beside them.
By the time they reached the front of the ministry for magic parade was the only term to describe it as witches and wizards had tagged along while they made their very public way to the doors of power in wizarding Britain.
Chapter 10
Emma Granger sat watching the young redhead walk back and forth covering the same piece of carpet again and again.
"Ginny please stop! You wearing out the rug isn't going to help them. Come over here and sit with me."
"Oh Emma I'm just so worried, I know they can take care of themselves but I wanted to help!"
Ginny sat on the sofa with Emma who put her arm comfortingly round the girl.
"Listen Ginny, when Harry and Hermione faced Voldemort Dan and I were with them."
Ginny looked at her with part astonishment and not a little awe.
"Dan and I thought that being there would help and couldn't have been more wrong! We were so far out of our depth I was terrified. Had anything went wrong we would have been liabilities, someone could have been hurt trying to keep us safe while Harry and Hermione wouldn't have been able to concentrate for worrying about us."
Ginny was beginning to understand as Emma continued
"If Harry and Hermione know their loved ones are safe it allows them to concentrate on protecting each other. I can see they both love you and know you love them but this is the best way we can help, by staying safe and letting them do their stuff"
Ginny sighed, "I know your right but I feel so helpless. This is so hard!"
Emma gave a rye smile, "I never said it was easy! That's my only child out there and I don't care what some age spell says she's still my little girl and if anything happens to her…"
"If anyone even looks like harming Hermione then all hell will break lose in the shape of Harry, Dobby and Winky!" said Ginny
The tears were slowly running down Emma's cheeks as the roles reversed and Ginny now comforted the woman who was effectively her grandmother – Potters sure don't do normal!
Sirius was enjoying his newfound freedom; a visit to Gringotts had been followed by a quick trip to the barbers and then onto Madam Malkin's.
It was now a very different Sirius Black that was sitting in Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor drinking coffee while people watching.
Remus sat beside his friend contemplating the changes in his life since last week.
He now had a job, was wearing new robes Sirius had bought him along with the dress robes ordered for Harry and Hermione's wedding and sitting having coffee in public with his friend for the first time in over thirteen years.
Any one of those events, and new robes was an event would qualify as a red letter day in the life of Remus Lupin but all of them together had him slightly worried.
It seemed every time Remus got a break the shit would hit the fan and he'd be back to square one or lower. With a boost of this proportion the relevant downturn would require dragon dung and a propeller!
The Hogwarts professors heard the commotion heading towards them and when they saw the imposing figures leading the procession both men were out of their seats, heading towards their two favourite teens and all thoughts of the planned visit to the Apothecary forgotten.
Hermione saw them first and waved, "Sirius, Remus over here! We're going to have a little chat with the Wizengamot, should be fun if you've nothing better to do!"
Sirius was grinning like a madman while Remus had a distinctly wolfish look of delight on his face as both echoed "Oh we wouldn't miss this for anything!"
By the time they reached the front of the ministry for magic, parade was the only term to describe it as witches and wizards had tagged along while they made their very public way to the doors of power in wizarding Britain.
There were over a hundred people heading for the checkpoint as the wizard on duty bravely stood with his hands out in the universal signal to stop as he shouted over the crowd noise.
"I need your names, nature of business at the Ministry and I need to weigh your wands!"
Harry just smiled, "I am Lord Gryffindor and this lovely young lady is my wife, we have an appointment with the Wizengamot and don't carry wands!"
The guard had no answer especially when Harry gestured over his shoulder to the unconscious Aurors and assembled crowd.
"Oh and they're with us!"
The poor wizard was lamenting the fact that training never covered this scenario
"I'm sorry my Lord but I don't have enough visitor badges!"
Hermione roared with laughter "the angry mob is at the door with pitch forks and torches, only at the ministry would they worry about enough visitor badges!"
Harry just shook his head and started heading towards the Wizengamot, politely asking directions from shocked ministry workers as everyone stopped what they were doing and joined the parade.
They eventually found themselves outside a set of double doors that were being guarded by eight Aurors; reinforcements had been called as the news spread.
Hermione spoke to Remus and Sirius "let us handle this, don't draw your wands unless attacked"
One of the Aurors shouted, "Only Potter and Granger are allowed in, the rest of you go home!"
The same Auror was now looking along the bloody blade of Godric's sword into the deadliest pair of eyes he'd ever seen
"Insult my wife, the Lady Gryffindor again and I will kill you!"
Two Aurors on Harry's left reached for their wands but were stunned by Harry without him even looking, as his gaze never left the wizard at the end of his blade.
Hermione approached and put her hand on his shoulder "I'm so glad you had that chat with Ginny on anger management, she would just have killed him!"
The Auror fainted
"Ok anybody else have anything to say or will we pay our unelected officials a visit"
The doors were open and they marched through only to stop in disbelief at the sight waiting for them.
The members of the Wizengamot sat on raised benches around the room but it was to the centre of the chamber that all eyes were drawn. Two wooden chairs complete with chains awaited occupants while a pair of dementors hovered next to them.
Prongs and his mate immediately shot out of the Potters hands with the doe shepherding each dementor towards a face full of antlers while an enraged Dobby and Winky reduced the chairs to matchsticks.
In less than a minute the whole assembled crowed was presented with a never before seen sight, dead dementors!
The golden stag and doe headed towards their owners where they received a grateful pat on the head before disappearing.
Harry asked Hermione to wake the Aurors, which she did with a casual wave of her hand.
"Tim Davis!" Harry shouted, standing in the centre of the chamber with his sword clearly in view.
Not a word was spoken but every head in the Wizengamot turned towards a balding, middle-aged wizard sitting on the front row of benches.
"Ah, Tim Davis I presume! Could you please explain to the good people here why you would send armed Aurors into Gringotts demanding they hand over two friends of the goblin nation?"
Shocked silence permeated the entire chamber.
"The wizarding world couldn't deal with a half blood prick like Voldemort so now you want to pick a fight with a noble race of warriors!"
A collective sharp intake of breath at the mention of the evil wizards name was still the only sound
"I want a name Davis and how much you were paid!"
Harry stood, sword ready and radiating power as he fought to control his temper, only Hermione's soothing words through the bond held him together.
Tim Davis sat terrified; the acting chief warlock was getting ready to crawl under the bench in an attempt to reach the exit behind him. It wasn't much of a plan but then Davis wasn't much of a wizard! He suddenly found himself lifted out his seat and floating three meters off the ground in the centre of the room.
"I want some answers!"
Davis was now spinning upside down and as the galleons started to fall from his pockets Harry summoned and then floated the coins over to Griphook who placed them in stacks to be counted.
After a minute with no more gold appearing Griphook gave the figure
Hermione exploded
"Two hundred galleons, you nearly started a war for two hundred galleons! Each Aurors that was sent out today, their life was worth ten galleons!"
Hermione was now seriously angry as people looked for cover from the power escaping the raging witch
Davis shot towards Hermione and was looking into her eyes as she spoke
"NAME, NOW!"
He managed "Gree" before his heart stopped beating and he collapsed to the floor dead from an unbreakable vow.
Hermione was looking for something to blast when she felt her husbands arms pull her into an embrace, which at least stopped the building shaking.
As the Wizengamot members started to poke their heads back up Hermione broke the embrace, she now had an outlet for her temper
"What is wrong with you people? You are members of the most eminent assembly in the wizarding world yet use this position to line your vaults with bribes and vote with commercial self-interest at every turn. Your list of failures is spectacular and our whole world pays the price"
"Why was Voldemort not dealt with? The goblins had all the information you required but nobody bothered to ask them. An innocent man, Sirius Black spent twelve years in Azkaban without a trial! My husband had his parents legal will ignored, the Potter vaults robbed, his magical core bound and memory obliviated by the Chief Bloody Warlock of the Wizengamot!"
Harry's arms again found their way around his wife as he offered his support and love.
Harry took over, "The Wizengamot cannot continue in its present form, Amelia who do you trust?"
Amelia answered, "Griselda Marchbanks is the most honest and trustworthy person I know"
"That's good enough for us, any objections?"
Not a sound was heard
"Congratulations Madam Marchbanks we wish you well with the undertaking of this mammoth task. Our philosophy is put the best people into position then let them do their job that's why our new company Stag Industries has Griphook, Dobby, Winky, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Dan and Emma Granger as well as the Potters as directors. We all have the best interests of the magical world at heart"
The implications of Harry's words combined with the shocking display of magical power from the couple left no room for doubt in anyone's mind, change voluntarily or we'll do it for you!
The composition of his board of directors was not lost on them, a goblin, 2 elves, 2 purebloods, a werewolf, 2 muggles, a halfblood and a muggle born!
Inclusion and equality would be the new ministry buzzwords.
Amelia and Griselda knew the responsibility for changing the magical world was about to fall on their shoulders but that was as it should be, they shouldn't need a couple of teenagers to save their arses at every turn, though it was comforting to know they were available if required! They both turned to the Potters and nodded.
Hermione then threw a hand grenade into the Wizengamot, "Madam Marchbanks you can expect a few resignations as anyone who has excepted bribes in the past has until tomorrow to resign or have the details of said bribes and what they were spent on published in the Daily Prophet!"
There was uproar until Harry held his hand up
"Anyone who feels unfairly treated is welcome to meet with me personally"
From behind him Harry heard Sirius start to laugh and his comment, "like that's going to happen" started the whole crowd containing ministry workers, Aurors and just general wizarding public laughing at the Wizengamot members getting their comeuppance.
Hermione asked, "Amelia, just out of interest what charges were we facing today?"
It was an embarrassed Amelia who replied "underage use of magic"
The crowd turned ugly as they remembered the chairs and dementors
Harry said, "Madam Marchbanks it is our belief that no one is above the law, please can you cast the age verification spell on my wife and I"
She also looked embarrassed but complied and like Poppy cast the charm again to confirm her results "it would appear that an apology is in order as you are both of age"
"Thank you now if our business here is concluded we should be going and allow these good people to return to work. Tomorrows Prophet should be interesting!"
With that they left throwing the two hundred galleons into the fountain on the way out.
They had just left the ministry when Sirius couldn't hold it any longer "take out over twenty aurors, storm the ministry, kill a couple of dementors while forcing the Wizengamot to back down! Not satisfied with that you choose the next Chief Witch and tell half the Wizengamot to resign or else – just a normal day for the Potter's?"
"That was the most awesome display of magic I've ever seen but what's Stag Industries?" asked Remus
"It was on our to-do list but not here, we need to go somewhere private for this discussion," said Harry
"Actually love this might be better in public with a few silencing charms, let the people see the group" said Hermione
"As usual my brilliant wife is correct, Dobby could you get Dan, Winky I think Ginny and Emma will be going nuts about now so we'll all meet in Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor"
The elves popped off to collect the rest of the group as everyone headed for the Parlor
When the girls arrived Ginny hugged Harry while Emma held Hermione at arms length, checking for injuries before following the young witch's example and hugging her daughter.
Florean was delighted to see Harry again and gave the group a large table at the window and taking orders from the ten of them since the three guards had left for Gringotts and Dan had arrived with Dobby.
The elves had a hard time sitting at the table while someone served them but thoroughly enjoyed their ice cream sundaes.
Griphook did the honours with the silencing charm while Harry asked the question
"Did anyone here think what happened at the ministry today will accomplish all our goals?"
No one answered
"Then why did you do it?" asked a confused Remus
"To keep them busy while our real plan gets off the ground, it also doesn't hurt that the ministry and Wizengamot are now behind us" said Hermione
Sirius just shook his head, "I could have sworn you both were in Gryffindor, when did you get so Slytherin?"
"We're just using a bit of misdirection while the real prank takes place unnoticed, wonder where I got that from?" Harry's comments drew a smile from both Marauders
"The only way to change the wizarding world is commercially which is where Stag Industries come in. Our plan will see the best Hogwarts graduates vying to join our company, which will influence every aspect of wizarding life."
Harry continued despite the sceptical looks "We are going to be teaching young witches and wizards to use mobile phones and emails, you think they'll go back to tying a piece of parchment to a birds leg when they can talk to someone in Beauxbatons instantly. The students from the other two schools currently at Hogwarts will have six months use of our muggle studies annex and then be offered the same facilities built at their school for free! What are the chances they're going to say no?"
"At the same time we will be working on magical equivalents to the muggle devices which will be produced and sold under the Stag banner. Ginny, did you enjoy the muggle shopping?"
The change of direction caught everyone out
"It was brilliant Harry, I didn't know so many clothes existed"
"What if I told you that the new annex will have a clothes shop and each student will be given muggle money to help teach them how to shop and pay for their goods!"
"They get to keep the clothes?" asked Ginny
"Yes"
"Hermione your husband is going to be the most loved man in Hogwarts! Hell he already is!"
Hermione just laughed, "There will also be a muggle stationary shop because pens and notebooks are a lot easier to use and cheaper than quills and parchment. We will still use the traditional methods but for reports and homework. Once we have magical equivalent of CD players we can stock the shop with them as well."
Harry continued, "We're pretty sure that the youth will go with our ideas but we need to start changing the adults which will take longer. Remus, what's the position in the werewolf community?"
"Fenrir Greyback didn't have a dark mark so he's still out there but apart from him most just want to lead as normal a life as possible" answered Remus
Harry glanced at the elves and Griphook who nodded, "right that's him taken care of!"
Cries of "what!" and "how!" came from Sirius and Remus
Harry explained, 'wizards walk about with their superior attitude but Dobby dumped Lucius Malfoy on his arse and that was before he transformed! We took down twenty Aurors today holding back, the goblins are born fighters and I felt very comfortable knowing they had my back. The elves will find Greyback with the goblins taking care of business."
"Can it really be that easy?" asked Sirius
"The reason Voldemort succeeded was because the ministry officials and Wizengamot members all have their own agendas or can be bought. Our world is full of people who've been taught it's their birthright to be better than everyone else and anything they want is theirs for the taking. They weren't above the law, they were the law!"
"The idea that ability and hard work brings success is a totally alien concept, Hermione is incredibly powerful, exceedingly brilliant, stunningly beautiful and filthy rich but to a large part of our society she'll always be just a mudblood and anyone insulting her dies – their rules not mine!"
Hermione leaned over and kissed her husband, "Remus pass the word amongst the community that free wolfsbane potion, jobs and housing for them and their families will soon be available through Stag Industries."
Remus couldn't speak; he was shaking Harry's hand and kissing Hermione's cheek while shedding tears of joy
"Dobby and Winky, can we find out if other elves are being abused then see about getting them out of there! Any legal options available even if we have to go for the financial ruin option, anyone who mistreats an elf is a shit in our eyes and no sleep will be lost over it." Said Harry to some very happy elves
"We actually thought of an Elvin village where you could live rather than lofts or cupboards. Have houses built to your design and form a community some where close to Hogwarts, we already own the land but it's your decision!"
Dobby, like Remus shook Harry's hand and kissed Hermione while Winky kissed everyone though she did seem to kiss Dobby for a lot longer than she did anyone else!
"I take it that's a yes then!" said a beaming Hermione
"Mum, dad we haven't forgotten the non magical folk. Every year children die in this country from illnesses that can be cured in the magical world. We plan to open the Lily Potter Clinic to save as many as we can. It will be a small private clinic and with the goblins help we should be able to get round the non-magical regulations. Even if we have to obliviate to keep our world secret what's losing a tiny piece of your memory compared to losing your child?"
Sirius now had tears in his eyes as well, "Prongs and Lily would have been so proud, hell I'm so proud of you two I could burst!"
Harry turned to Griphook, "I know the goblins want recognition as equals and in our eyes you have that and more my friend but your goals will take the longest to achieve. We had thought having a goblin teach investment and finance at Hogwarts would help but I would now like to add the noble art of fencing to that list after seeing you in action."
"I am honoured by your words and delighted at the suggestion of goblins teaching at Hogwarts. The goblin nation has aligned itself to Lord and Lady Gryffindor and the ideals expressed here today make me proud to have played a small part. It would give me great pleasure to be involved in Stag Industries." Declared Griphook
Sirius placed his right hand on the centre of the table saying, "Count me in!"
Remus immediately followed his actions placing his hand on top of Sirius's
Dan, Emma, Winky, Dobby, Griphook, Ginny and Hermione repeated this before Harry placed his hand on top saying "Stag Industries, for the benefit of all!"
A golden light shot along each of their arms as the strangest brotherhood in history was formed.
Harry was scared as he walked along the garden path arm in arm with Hermione towards the beautiful cottage set in the heart of Kent. Dan and Emma were in front and grinning like Cheshire cats at Harry's discomfort, they were spending way too much time with Sirius!
The cottage door opened and Harry was stunned into silence as Hermione led him into the living room.
"Oh my Hermione how you've grown and on the arm of a handsome young man as well! He's a quiet one I see and they're the worst, sir what are your intentions towards my granddaughter?" asked Amanda Granger
"Excuse me but I was told I was here to meet Hermione's grandmother and when you opened the door I thought you were Dan's sister, his younger sister at that!"
"I like this one Daniel though I notice you never answered my question" said a beaming Amanda
"My apologies Mrs Granger I can assure you my intentions are honourable, in fact we're here to invite you to our wedding this Saturday!" replied a smiling Harry
Amanda Granger had to sit down while Dan supplied a small sherry from the decanter on the sideboard.
Harry was only half joking when he said Amanda could pass for Dan's sister, only the younger part was in jest! She was a beautiful woman in her mid fifties who easily looked ten years younger. Between her and Emma it was obvious where Hermione took her beauty.
Everyone was now seated as Dan carried out the introductions "Mum, this is Harry Potter, otherwise known as Lord Gryffindor!"
Dan had been looking forward to his mother's reaction for days but this was totally unexpected, she sat staring at Hermione while her mind seemed to be elsewhere.
"Mum, are you alright? I know it's a bit short notice…"
"Why didn't you tell me Hermione went to Hogwarts?" asked Amanda to the total astonishment of everyone in the room
"Gran how do you know about Hogwarts?" asked Hermione
"My grandmother was a squib, her mother had attended Hogwarts and was in Gryffindor, and then she married a non magic person who left after finding out she was a witch. When I was little I used to love listening to stories of the castle but my mother always said Gran made them up and they were like bedtime stories. Please tell me it's true!"
A dozen of the reddest roses she'd ever seen appeared in front of the young man and floated into her arms. Here was the proof her beloved grandmother had told her the truth all those years ago.
Hermione conjured a stunning crystal vase as the roses were placed on the centre of the table.
"Oh I'm sorry for being such a bad host but it means so much to know my grandmother was telling the truth! Now what's this I heard about a wedding and my Hermione going to be a Lady no less!" asked Amanda
Emma started laughing "Mum because of magic they're already married but Harry wanted to do it properly for Hermione and is having the old St Mary's church rebuilt as her wedding present. Meet Lady Hermione Jane Potter Gryffindor!"
"I think I could use another small sherry Daniel" Amanda said
Taking her glass to refill it Dan joked "Don't worry mum your taking this better than me, I fainted!"
"I think that was more to do with the golf course dad!" Hermione laughed
"Mrs. Granger Hogwarts is undergoing a lot of rebuilding at the moment but I would be delighted to give you a tour of the castle when it's finished" said Harry
Amanda hopefully asked, "You can do that?"
A laughing Emma said, "Mum Harry and Hermione own Hogwarts!"
"Where's that sherry Daniel?"
It was a different Harry and Hermione who now stood with Ginny clinging to them, dressed in black with the Potter / Gryffindor family crests on their cloaks.
Harry looked around the small group gathered in a quaint private glade in the evening light just behind the castle and saw the five remaining Weasley brothers with their heads lowered as Ron's coffin lay in front of a small podium. The Hogwarts staff were also present.
This was not a religious service rather a gathering of family and friends to share stories and reminisce about the deceased.
Bill spoke first about Ron's preference for running about the burrow without the benefit of clothing, which had a few people blushing until Bill casually mentioned that he was only three at the time!
Charlie then told the tale of Ron's first time on a broom though the scolding that resulted was glossed over.
Percy recalled teaching Ron the rules of chess and how no one had been able to beat him since!
The twins spoke together of the numerous pranks they had pulled on their younger brother, or to give him his full title "test subject'
McGonagall described the scene in a girls toilet containing a certain three first year Gryffindors and a fully grown, thankfully unconscious by the time she got there mountain troll. It was also the day a certain brown haired witch had lied to her head of house!
When they got up to recall their favourite memory of Ron, Hermione was still blushing at her former head of house knowing she lied.
The told of the giant chess set and their best friend Ron's sacrifice so they both could continue the task of stopping Voldemort reaching the stone.
The irony that a few short years later he would lose his life trying to split them up was not lost on the people assembled.
Ginny was too emotional to speak, she had clung to Harry and Hermione only letting go when they went forward to say their part. She was currently being held by Bill but immediately switched back to the Potters after their speech finished.
As the sun was setting Ron's coffin was lowered into the grave and covered in earth.
Fireworks exploded into the sky but these were unusual in that the multicoloured display normally associated with fireworks had been replaced by bright orange in homage to Ron's favourite Quidittch team.
A simple but beautiful marble headstone appeared bearing a white knight chess piece and the inscription
Ronald Bilius Weasley
Brother and Friend
The three Potters again shared a bed but there was no laughter tonight, just plenty of tears as they hugged drawing whatever comfort they could from each other.
No matter your age or magical maturity losing a brother / best friend hurts like hell.
The name of Molly Weasley was cursed quite a few times that night!
Chapter 11
Harry opened his eyes to a mixture of red and brown hair, what had woke him was the felling of concern coming from his wife.
'What's the matter love?' Harry asked over the bond
'I'm worried Harry'
'I can tell that love but you need to give me a little bit more to work with here!'
'I'm lying in bed with my husband who also has his arm around another girl'
'It was your idea love, you know there's nothing to be jealous about'
'That's just my point Harry, I'm not jealous in the slightest. I woke feeling so at peace yet a few days ago I would have killed Ginny for looking at you! Then there's my parents and how quickly they've accepted this. I've never seen my mum so excited and my dad couldn't wait to show us off to Gran, I know Potters don't do normal but what do you think?'
'When you put all the pieces together like that I see what you mean but what's got you so worried?'
'I'm afraid in case our bond, magic or whatever you want to call it is influencing the people around us!'
This really got Harry's attention as the thought of magically manipulating people, even subconsciously made him feel ill.
Ginny woke up immediately sensing Harry's discomfort, "Ok guys, what's wrong? Don't say nothing because I can feel it."
'Shit! Do you think Ginny's been affected?' Thought Harry, still using the bond.
'She's been with us more than anyone else.'
"Guys you're scaring me here! What have I done?" asked a concerned Ginny.
"It's not you Ginny, it's us. We think there may be a problem with our bond effecting people around us." said Hermione
"Don't you even think of pushing me away! It would kill me, please please!" said a panicking Ginny with tears in her eyes.
Harry and Hermione pulled her close.
Harry spoke to the now weeping Ginny, "calm down Gin, we just need to figure this out to see if there is a problem first before looking for solutions."
Hermione decided to tell Ginny her fears. "That night in the common room you looked so jealous of Harry and I but now we laugh and joke about it. When we discovered the contract I was ready to commit murder yet we're both lying here in Harry's arms! My mum and dad have just meet Harry however they both seem to really like him, I think the bond is influencing the people around us to act differently."
Ginny was quiet for a moment as she carefully considered her answer.
"That night in the common room, it was obvious to everyone but you that Harry was head over heels in love with Hermione Jane Granger and I was so jealous. When I heard you got married I sobbed along with half the other girls in Hogwarts. The minute you both walk into the great hall everyone knew you were made for each other, no girl had ever stood a chance."
Ginny snuggled into Harry for support, she knew the next bit would be the hardest.
"After watching those memories I felt unclean, worthless, violated and a hundred times worse than Riddle's possession. I'd lost my brother, father, mother, best friend and the person I trusted and admired most in the world, my life was over."
Harry and Hermione held her tight.
"When Harry held me in his arms it was like being cleansed, born again even, and when you joined us in the hug I knew I could face the next day. Sleeping in Harry's arms gives a feeling of security I've never known, nothing bad can happen while Harry holds you but asking me to be a Potter was beyond my wildest dreams."
Ginny now looked at Hermione, "I don't think your bond has affected my decisions but I would ask you this, if our positions were reversed and you were given my choices would you have done anything differently?"
Hermione knew if Harry had married someone else she would still want to be part of his life.
"No Ginny, I think your choices were logical and correct. Can I cast a spell on you to confirm something?"
Ginny nodded as Hermione summoned her wand to cast the age determine charm, turning to Harry said, "Exact age she's supposed to be!"
Ginny was puzzled, she could feel the tension flow out of Harry's body but not sure of the reason.
"Why would knowing my body is the correct age please you two so much? Your bodies only aged to…. NO, NO BLOODY CHANCE, I WOULD NEVER…"
She was stopped by a gentle kiss on the lips by Harry, "we know Ginny, but had to make sure our bond wasn't pulling you in as well."
"Harry everyone knows I love you but your married to my best friend and I think that's wonderful. I hope to meet someone, fall in love and get married but until then I plan on getting many hugs, a few kisses and teasing the life out of my handsome relation, with his wife's permission of course. I have no intention of applying for membership to Harry's Harem!"
For some reason this seemed to crack Hermione up and her laughter could be heard throughout the apartments.
When Hermione had eventually stopped laughing Ginny continued.
"Is it so hard to believe that your mum and dad like Harry, I mean what's not to like?"
Harry was actually blushing as Ginny's promised teasing materialised.
"He's very handsome, extremely powerful, immensely wealthy, worships their daughter and makes her deliriously happy. Emma told me that every letter you've sent since starting Hogwarts mentioned Harry and all she heard about during the holidays was Harry Potter, so it's not as big a shock as you think. Have I missed anything out?"
Ginny was now enjoying embarrassing Harry.
"If that's not enough he charms his mother in law with roses, lets her organise the wedding and even gets the church she wants rebuilt. Did you know the whole school thought McGonagall had a beau? She has a dozen red roses in her office and her whole face lights up every time she glances at them."
Harry's face now matched Ginny's hair for colour, with Hermione's only a few shades behind from attempting to contain her laughter.
"Individually you are both special people but together your awesome! You think it's the bond but I just see a couple realizing their potential. You may say I'm biased because I love you both but I also know you better than anyone else. The bond has made you more powerful but you're still Harry and Hermione to me and the rest of your family."
Harry placed a kiss on Ginny's forehead, "that's why we need you in our life Ginny, to kick our butts when we need it. Never change Ginny."
A wicked smile crossed Ginny's face as she replied, "well I don't plan on wearing Hermione's pyjamas forever, but I'll let you choose what you want me to change into later."
With that she got out of bed and headed for the shower, bedecked in Hermione's pyjamas and complete with her impression of a sultry walk.
The "Oh Shit!" from Harry was the signal for both girls to collapse into uncontrollable laughter.
Emma Granger heard the laughter coming from the bedroom and tried to quell her unease, she knew nothing inappropriate was taking place, as Harry was totally devoted to Hermione. Maybe if Hermione had loads of friends over to stay, with the occasional boy in the picture Emma could have had time to build up to this. But no, her daughter went from lonely young girl to this beautiful, confident woman overnight and married to a man who makes her so happy she glows, literally! Emma hoped that after Saturday, seeing Hermione walk down the aisle, say the words and wear the ring, her analytical mind might accept this completely.
Back in the bedroom Hermione snuggled into her husband, her fears forgotten in the arms of the man she'd spend the rest of her life with. Her thoughts drifted to what the day held in store for them, 'Harry if we can split some of the meetings between us we should get them finished easily by Thursday, leaving Friday to relax and get ready for our wedding.'
She could feel the concern coming over the bond, 'what's the matter?'
Harry knew he was caught so just had to confess, 'there were some wizards in that room I wouldn't want you anywhere near, I almost challenged a few for the way they were ogling my beautiful wife. I know you can take care of yourself but I just cant help the way I feel, I'm pretty sure I'll be even more protective when you're pregnant.'
He was prepared for the backlash, what he was not prepared for was the tender kiss that Hermione used to express her feelings of love, it took his breath away in more ways than the obvious.
Hermione had started to get upset with Harry until she heard the word 'pregnant'. The thought of having Harry's baby filled her with so much emotion she simply had to share it with her husband.
Ginny emerged dressed and, seeing the couple were otherwise engaged, slipped quietly out the room in search of breakfast.
Dan and Emma were already at the table as Ginny sat while her breakfast appeared in front of her.
"Guys, you know Hermione would murder me if I sat and ate this without you!"
Dobby and Winky popped into the room and joined them for breakfast.
"So what was the reason behind this morning's bout of laughter?" asked a smiling Dan.
"Poor Harry was being teased, growing up with the Dursleys left him unsure how to react when shown affection because he basically never got any practice. Hermione is the best thing that ever happened to him. There just so good together." said a smiling Ginny who found Emma's arm round her giving a one armed hug.
Dan asked, "what have we got on the agenda for today? I'll be finished by one so we could try out some dance moves on the youngsters tonight, I understand Neville will be joining us?"
Ginny's smile increased a few watt's, "oh that would be great! Those two have a pretty full day again, Harry's collecting Neville to get robes measured for Saturday, he could come here for lunch and help while they have more meetings to deal with."
Dan had a slight frown, "I thought this was a non-magical wedding, why are they wearing robes?"
Ginny laughed, "Sirius and Remus got measured yesterday, the robes look just a tuxedo though more comfortable to wear. I think Harry was going to ask if you wanted measured as well."
Emma thought that was a great idea, "keep all the wedding party dressed the same style and Neville can help with the invitations."
The day was planned as the bride and groom entered looking exceedingly happy with life.
-oOoOo-
Narcissa had spent another sleepless night, although this one was much more pleasant, while she pondered the opportunities presented to her by the young couple. Each had its merits and would be rewarding but she'd eventually made her choice. The lack of sleep was brought about by an emotion she hadn't felt for many, many year's -excitement!
-oOoOo-
As a beaming Madam Malkin wished them a good day, while calculating how much extra business supplying Harry Potter's wedding robes would bring. They said goodbye to Dan and Dobby while heading for Gringotts.
"I see from today's Prophet that you're keeping busy. The acting Chief Wizard dies and twenty-one members of the Wizengamot resigned, you certainly don't do things by half." said an impressed Neville
"You can't believe everything you read in the prophet, yet! We actually only had details on eighteen so our threat worked better than we thought." Laughed Hermione
As they reached the top of Gringotts steps Neville and Winky departed for Hogwarts, while the Potters continued into the bank for their first meeting of the day.
Narcissa entered the room to find Harry and Hermione sitting having tea, laughing and joking with two goblins, when she heard the identity of the elder goblin she was confident she'd made the right choice. Her life would never be dull or lonesome again.
They were discussing Stag Industries when Hermione jokingly offered Ragnok a job, both knew as a national leader he couldn't accept but it was a little tit-for-tat payback – she was definitely spending too much time with Ginny!
Ragnok left as Harry offered her a seat.
"Take a seat Miss Black, we're hoping you may have some good news for us" he said.
"I'm really Miss Black?" she asked with hope in her voice.
It was Griphook who answered, "the matter is being dealt with as we speak, Lord Black and Lord Gryffindor have signed the paperwork which is currently being processed at the ministry. May I be the first to congratulate you Miss Black on the annulment of your marriage."
Narcissa sat there stunned at how much this young couple had changed her world and came to the conclusion there was only one thing to do, she drew her wand and swore allegiance to the House of Potter.
Harry smiled, "thank you, it's appreciated but not a requirement of the arrangement."
Narcissa bowed formally, "I know my Lord which was all the more reason to carry it out, that and I would like to apply for the position of your private secretary."
"Oh thank Merlin, I might actually get some time alone with my husband!" this was said with such feeling that they couldn't help but laugh at Hermione's predicament.
Hermione handed over her notes and appointments with unconcealed glee while Harry explained a vault would be arranged for any expenses or supplies required. Hermione pointed out that wardrobe would be classed as supplies and they already had an account at Malkin's for Potter use.
She was then informed that their first meeting was now so they left towards another room.
Narcissa was steeling herself all the way down the corridor muttering, "you can do this" under her breath but she walked into the room and immediately burst into tears.
Tonks was a very happy young woman. She'd been asked by Harry Potter to bring her mum and dad to Gringotts today where Sirius Black had met them, the hugs and reminiscing had started immediately. When he announced her mother's reinstatement to the Black family line, she didn't think her mother could get any happier.
That theory was disproved minutes later when Harry and Hermione entered with a blond woman causing her mother to squeal "Cissi!" before enveloping the now crying woman in a hug that must have done some rib damage. She may be out of work but Tonks was certain she had made the right decision when publicly tending her resignation, there were things in life a lot more important than gold.
Sirius approached Harry and Hermione putting an arm round each of them before admitting, "Ok, you were right, this is better than pranking."
The goblins working at Gringotts could never remember when their bank had resounded to the sound of so much laughter as the sound was again filling the corridors where the Lord and Lady Gryffindor held their meeting. They really were the golden couple, loved by everyone except the pureblood elitists who treated the goblins like shit and were now watching terrified as their power base crumbled around them. Yes, it was a good time to work in Gringotts.
They had eventually got everyone calmed down enough to sit round the table but when Harry and Hermione looked towards Narcissa, her bewildered expression nearly started the laughter again.
Hermione saying, "you'll have to excuse our new secretary, it's her first day in the job," proved too much and laughter again filled the room.
Narcissa sheepishly looked through the folder she had been given and was surprised to see documents on her sister, her husband and their daughter. They were also indexed and colour coded which left her thinking, 'shit, I'm really going to have to work for my money' it was only then she realised they'd never even discussed the subject. She wasn't bothered as, like her niece, Narcissa was discovering some things in life were more important than gold.
Harry took the documents and started speaking, "I hope you don't mind but when Tonks introduced herself the night Voldemort was finished, we started asking some questions as family means everything to us. Our motives will become crystal clear before this meeting ends."
This was an important meeting so they had agreed going in that they would 'double-team' the Tonks family, Hermione took over.
"Harry and I are trying to change attitudes in the wizarding world and put an end to the bigotry that causes first generation magic users, like myself, to wonder if it's worth saving. Mrs. Tonks, you refused to obey your father and marry someone he chose for you, an attitude we wholeheartedly support and all arranged marriages in the Potter House have been terminated, and your sister's marriage annulled. You married a first generation wizard and were both so disillusioned with the magical world chose to live as muggles."
Harry didn't give them time to think as he continued, "When your daughter started showing metamorphmagus abilities, you were forced back into the magical world so she could learn to control her gift and for her education. Your daughter's actions yesterday, standing up in front of her peers and superior, impressed us greatly. The reason for this meeting is you all possess talents that we badly need and hope to enlist you in the battle against the bigotry."
Hermione kept it going, "Hogwarts is undergoing a major refit and a whole new annex will be built purely to teach muggle studies properly. We need someone to head the facility and take on the task of explaining google to the wizarding world. We hope that Mr. Ted Tonks will be the first head of this facility and help with the design of the courses. Money is not a problem and it will be fully equipped with the latest technology that will function because the new building is outside the Hogwarts wards."
The Tonks were looking shell-shocked as Harry hammered home their points, "we think the students will come around but the parents have to get involved as well, so a visitors centre will be part of the new Hogwarts. Parents, both magical and muggle will be able to come and stay for a few days to see what their children are being taught. We need someone with a foot in both camps that can basically sell what we're trying to achieve without upsetting anyone. Mrs Tonks you are in the unique position of being a pureblood wizard who has been living as a muggle for over twenty years and already have a daughter who came through Hogwarts. We would like you to manage this resource."
The Tonks hadn't uttered a sound so Hermione finished their pitch, "in my years at Hogwarts the only exercise program I was involved in consisted of running away from trouble my husband got us into! This is unacceptable so a full sports program is currently being put together, but again we need someone to run it. Miss Tonks when you were at Hogwarts, a special exercise program was arranged for you to help control the metamorphmagus changes your body was undergoing. At Auror training you excelled at the physical aspect of the job and we would like you to become the fitness instructor for Hogwarts."
The Potters sat back and invited questions
"How did you know about my exercise program at Hogwarts? No-one knows about that!" said Tonks
Hermione just smiled, "Tonks you came with the highest recommendation we can think of, Hogwarts herself requested you. If anyone knows anything about bigotry in the magic world it's you, yet after fighting through Auror training your morals decided that wasn't for you. We want you at Hogwarts so bad but, should you decline we will assist you with any career you choose to pursue."
The discussions continued for another hour with many questions being answered though Harry was stumped when asked the salaries involved until Hermione saved the day.
"Our personal secretary will be looking into the whole salary situation, including her own and making recommendations shortly. I can guarantee it will be more than you earn at the present time."
By the end of the meeting Hogwarts had three new staff members and it was handshakes and hugs all round.
When only Narcissa and the Potters were left she asked, "is it always this intense with you two?"
Harry only half joking replied, "Hey, that was a great meeting! Nobody got killed."
Narcissa recommended Rose Parkinson and Elizabeth Zabini as two women whose minds had been vastly underused in the pureblood society, so they interviewed both women together.
Elizabeth was a pleasant, middle-aged witch who'd raised her children as best she could under the restrictions imposed by a society who basically sold young girls to be old men's playthings for political or social advancement. The fact that a few words were exchanged didn't change what it was and she delighted in the opportunities her daughters now had available. She needed no further incentive to ditch the old ways, but here it was right in front of her. She was being offered a job, and a bloody important one at that! Could she do it? was she capable of being more than she was?
Rose had heard from Pansy the offer that the Potter's had made to Narcissa, she knew which one she's choose and here it was being offered. She didn't hesitate.
"Lord and Lady Gryffindor, I would be honoured to work at the Prophet. It was my dream to be a journalist but being a pureblood, woman dreams tend to stay just that. My husband never asked my opinion on anything, including my daughter's futures. I apologise Narcissa but Draco would not have been my choice for Pansy, he was already looking around for Violet and she's only ten!" Rose had tears in her eyes now.
"Our society was almost exclusively male dominated and I would like to ask if you are deliberately making a statement here? Female Minister of Magic, Head of Wizengamot, Head of Hogwarts, Head of Slytherin and running the Daily Prophet."
Harry just shook his head, "Oh you'll do! That was the most probing question I've ever been asked. The answer to your question is no, we pick the best people or have them recommended by people we trust."
Narcissa seemed to sit just that little bit straighter with the thought that they trusted her, she swore to herself never to betray it.
The deciding factor for Elizabeth Zabini was her four children who would now all be at Hogwarts. She said yes!
They chatted over lunch with ideas flying across the table, Hermione revealed the scoop for the Prophet this weekend, their wedding!
For security, no details would be published until after the event but the Prophet would have discreet access, to which Rose replied "better print double the usual copies then!"
Harry thought. 'yes, she'll do!'
They had decided to split and cover twice as much ground, though Harry had insisted Winky accompany Hermione in the room, she in turn forced Harry to have Dobby there to beat off all the young girls.
The afternoon was proceeding extremely well with a system of handing their notes to the elves for delivery to Narcissa, who compiled and assessed needs for all of Potter House.
Harry was half listening to a simpering fan girl whose mother seemed to think it was only a misunderstanding that he was with Hermione and would be married to her daughter before the day was out.
Harry suddenly felt a spike of concern over the bond and immediately dispatched Dobby as backup, while he got rid of the leach and her mother to get to Hermione.
Hermione was delighted at the process made and looking forward to learning dancing while holding Harry later.
The couple in the room now set all her alarm bells ringing and, though she'd never admit it, she was delighted Winky was in the room with her.
Albert Wadclock had been in a foul temper for days, he courted and then married the mouse beside him to get his hands on the Lestrange vaults, only to find out that bitch Bellatrix had locked the vaults down. Only her release from Azkaban or her death could unlock them.
Ding Dong! The Witch is dead. Which old Witch? The Wicked Witch! So Albert had dragged the mouse, Cassandra to Gringotts to claim the vaults. After countless forms and checking of family trees, he was confirmed as the Heir and promptly arrested, spending the night in Azkaban.
Now the bastard didn't even have the courtesy to meet him, he sent his woman! Well Albert knew how to deal with women, just because they said no didn't mean they meant no.
This guy really is a creep thought Hermione as she wrote down his answers. His wife never opened her mouth and sat as if it hurt to move.
Hermione looked up from her notes to find the creep leaning over her, with his hand now on her shoulder and moving south.
She quickly recovered from the shock that had frozen her momentarily and was just about to blast him when Winky beat her to it. He flew through the air hitting the wall and collapsed holding his groin.
She was just asking Winky what she'd done to the creep when Dobby popped into the room in time to hear her answer, "He will never touch another lady again!" she said in a voice that would freeze nitrogen.
The creep had made a typical pureblood mistake and totally ignored the elves presence.
Hermione asked Dobby to take him to St. Mungo's but was shocked to her core by his answer.
"No Hermione, he doesn't deserve to be helped, if he'd touched Winky he would now be dead." In a tone that matched Winky's.
There was no more debating as Hermione suddenly screamed "HARRY!" and fainted.
Millicent couldn't believe this; Harry had totally ignored and dismissed her. She couldn't fault her mother who'd followed her instructions to the letter and still nothing, he seemed to have his mind on something else.
Harry sent that weird house elf out and was clearly indicating the interview was over, so he'd had his chance the easy way but he was going to belong to her one way or another. She held her hand out to shake.
Harry was desperate to get out of there and see Hermione, so when the too much make-up, too little clothes girl held out her hand, Harry didn't hesitate to shake it.
The ring on Millicent's finger was a very old one, as Harry shook her hand a needle popped out the ring into his palm, injecting the potion contained within before he had time to react.
A kaleidoscope of colours appeared before Harry's eyes but was quickly replaced by just one, black!
He collapsed!