The Virginity Clause
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or any of the characters portrayed in the books or movies.
Summary: AU Story. Harry James Potter was the perfect heir; unfortunately due to a clause in his inheritance contract he is disowned. Alone at fifteen with no one to turn to, Harry decides to show the world and his family what he is worth.
Warnings: Slash and references to rape.
A/N: In no uncertain terms do I condone of rape or nonconsensual sex. Some of the views in this story about this topic do not reflect back on my own opinions and views.
Chapter Two: Responsibilities
A man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of life.
-Charles Darwin
It took a week to be formally disowned and he was now officially Harry Patterson. He thought he might have one last talk with his father, but the proceedings did not occur face to face. Harry had been summoned to Gringotts where he was made to sign several documents noting his awareness of the absolved contract. He was allowed to pick his name, but the options of James and Potter were not available. He kept Harry because his mother had named him and Patterson because it was familiar.
It was hard to focus on his studies when he had so much on his mind, but Harry knew that he would need strong grades for his future. This was OWL year, and he could not falter in his focus. He created a time table of what needed to be accomplished outside of school and worked study time in the remaining periods. He didn't have much time for a social life, but Harry had always been that way. Ravenclaws were friendly, but there was always the competitiveness to be better than others that had Harry shying away from too much intimacy within his house.
He formed a list of things he had to accomplish outside of schoolwork, first, sending letters to all of the businesses he had relations with, asking for meetings during his Christmas Holiday. Most would already be aware of his disowning, but he wrote, wishing that they would meet with him so he could easily transfer his position to his brother and what that would entail.
He visited Madam Pomfrey to get an examination and evidence against his attack. She had been very supportive and sympathetic to his plight, giving him a potion that would heal any lingering pains. She agreed immediately when he asked if she would testify against his attackers when he brought up charges.
The next thing on his list to do was to find out who was now legally responsible over his welfare, and to meet up with him or her. He suspected that Professor Flitwick would take charge since he was Harry's Head of House. The meeting with his professor corrected his assumption that the Headmaster had personally taken over, since he was good friends with the Potters and was especially interested in Harry's life.
Harry was not sure how he felt about the Headmaster taking control. It was obvious from just the other day the Headmaster had favored Michael over Harry in their dispute. The Ravenclaw did not know for sure that Dumbledore would have his best interests in mind.
Their meeting had caused an immediate owl to the Ministry requesting a status of emancipation.
-Flashback-
"Thank you for meeting with me Headmaster, I appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule," Harry stated, seating himself.
"Of course my boy," Dumbledore smiled at him his eyes twinkling, "Although these are grim circumstances, I am happy that I can help you out in your time of need."
"I would like to press charges against my attackers that led to this situation," Harry stated, "It would help my case if you, as my legal guardian, were behind me in my testimony."
"I don't understand my boy," Dumbledore replied, "What attackers are you talking about?"
Harry sighed. "I am sure that you know that I had a Virginity Clause in my inheritance contract which was broken. I did not consensually break the clause, I was raped by two students and I want to press charges."
The Headmaster frowned. "Do you know the identity of these boys?"
"Yes," Harry said, "It was Cormac McLaggen and Roderick Seaton.
Dumbledore's eyes lost their twinkling quality, "I'm afraid you are mistaken. Those two are members of Gryffindor House."
Harry glared at the Headmaster. "I don't see what that has to do with anything."
The Headmaster sighed, "You were obviously confounded before the attack. I'm sorry to say that with no substantial evidence your story will not hold up in court."
Harry gaped at the man before him. He had always known that the man played favorites, but to disregard his attack because the assailants were Gryffindors was going too far.
"I am willing to testify under Veritaserum if necessary," he replied.
"I'm afraid that won't cut it my boy, you could truthfully think that the boys that attacked you were Mr. McLaggen and Mr. Seaton, but due to your befuddlement it would not be conclusive." Dumbledore leaned back in his chair. "I believe that is all that there is to discuss. I'm sorry but you have no proof; I understand this must be troubling, but I am only looking out for you."
Seething with anger, and a fair deal of hurt, Harry saw himself out. It was obvious that the Headmaster was not looking out for him, and it was doubtful he would find anyone better. The thing to do would be to file for emancipation. Hopefully with his grades, and the proof of his experience in the working field, the ministry would recognize his adult like behavior.
-End Flashback-
Harry carefully copied all of his business transactions and notes, filing them in a way that Michael would hopefully understand. Although he was no longer a Potter, the truth of the matter was that he had broken his contract, however unwillingly, and he had no untoward feelings of his family. He wished that the two men were not such hot heads, but he understood their decisions, and still wanted to help all that he could. He supposed he should feel bitter, but he had agreed to the terms of the contract all those years ago, and he would stick by them.
Heading towards Gryffindor Tower, Harry only hoped that he did not run into his two attackers. He was not sure how to handle things outside of court.
Politely asking the portrait of the Fat Lady if she would mind calling for Michael, Harry waited with nervous energy. This would be the first time in days that he saw his brother face to face, and he had not forgotten their last engagement or how physical it had become.
Harry had never been a violent person, and he doubted that he would ever raise a hand against his own flesh and blood. He knew now that Michael had no such restrictions.
A furious face was what met him as the entrance swung open. "What do you want, Patterson?" was sneered hatefully.
Although he had gone all through Hogwarts with that name, the viciousness his brother used was hurtful.
Steeling himself, his face emotionless, Harry replied, "I just had some notes of my business transactions I thought you might find useful. I hope you will get over your anger in light of some training for your post at Potter Industries."
It had been the wrong thing to do, reminding Michael of his new career. The younger boy's sneer became even more hateful, an accomplishment Harry did not think possible, and his face grew red. "I don't need your help, mudblood, and I appreciate that you never speak to me again." The Gryffindor then spit in Harry's face before turning around and climbing back through the doorway.
Harry shrugged feeling hurt. He had seen that going better, but it was no sweat off his back. If Michael didn't want his help then so be it; he only hoped that his brother wouldn't come to regret it. He only wished he could still have a relationship with his ex-brother.
Wiping his face and heading back to his dormitory, Harry thoughts were about his list. His next mission would be to figure out living arrangements. Although he might be stuck at Hogwarts, if his emancipation was declined, he was going to be prepared. Who knew how long the ministry would be conferring over his status, so he had to make prior arrangements.
Harry had always been a man of business, who did not care for much materialistically. The only items that he really treasured and collected were books. His bedroom had always been very sparse, except for the rows and rows of books, neatly stacked on shelves. Sighing, Harry answered the riddle and stepped into the common room, it was unlikely that he would be getting the majority of books that were left at Godric's Hollow.
If only his mother was still alive. He had heard stories that she had been as big a bookworm as he; she would have probably sent his books to him. She might even have argued over his disownment. Harry cleared his thoughts; it was no use to wonder over what could have been.
His vault was no longer accessible, but he always carried a stash of emergency money. The small allowance he received from his father for Hogsmeade trips was also useful, for he had stashed most of it away. He had been known as a Knut pincher around his dorm, never spending his money on anything but books. It served him well now, as this was all he had to live on.
Although he was a genius at investing, Harry knew that he had too small a sum to do anything with at the moment. He had to get a job. The problem was rent and food. He could live with the bare minimum, but rent and food would take a percentage of his wages he could not afford.
With his "new blood status," he would unlikely find a job, even in an entry position, in any substantial business. His grades were fantastic, and he had always been a hard worker, but Harry knew how the Wizarding World operated. There were outstanding muggle-born students who would get their dream jobs, but most of them were forced into menial tasks. Harry knew that with the opposition of the Potter's he might not even have that.
"Stop being pessimistic," he murmured to himself. He had plenty of experience with successful business men that had loved him, and had offered him jobs, knowing full well that he was inheriting the Potter legacy. Hopefully his loss of name did not deter them from their previous offers.
-Line Break-
It took a week for the ministry to send a response, a surprisingly fast time in Harry's opinion. He was eating breakfast at the Ravenclaw table, two weeks before Christmas Holidays, when the bird swooped down into his bowl of porridge.
The response was also surprising, for they had granted him emancipation; he was now seen as an adult. Harry had thought that Dumbledore would have negated his emancipation attempts, but apparently the old man didn't even know of it.
Smiling slightly, Harry thought things were looking up. He had found an answer to his living arrangements a few days prior, although he had some doubts how long it would last, and now he was considered an adult. He had to subtract twelve Galleons for Apparition lessons, but he had a good sum of money if he swiftly acquired a job. He was going to take on the world and succeed. He might not have the name Potter, but he had been raised as one, and Potters never gave up.
-Line Break-
Now that he no longer had a guardian, it would be up to Harry to find and hire his own solicitor. Harry had known a great many men in the law field, but knew their prices would be much more than he could now afford. Unlike certain CEOs and managers related to his investing deals, Harry was not close to many lawyers, so could not ask any of them for favors. This led him to a small practice in Turnish Alley, off the main road of Diagon, on one of the Hogsmeade weekends. Seventeen year-olds and students that were emancipated were allowed to leave school grounds on Hogsmeade weekends as long as they had permission with their Head of House.
Meeting with Mr. Cresswell had been a pleasant affair, despite the awful circumstances. Harry had explained his situation to the attorney, and had been asked certain details. It had been uncomfortable, but Harry had always been strong in character. Harry had given Madam Pomfrey's report on his injuries, and Mr. Cresswell was positive that they could make a case of the matter, especially if Harry was willing to testify under Veritaserum.
The fee had been higher than what Harry had hoped, but he knew this was something he would have to go after, even with the slightly inexperienced Cresswell. The recommendation had actually been for Mr. Cresswell's mother, but Harry had not been able to afford her fee. Her oldest son, Derek Cresswell, had just finished up his schooling and joined his mother in business.
Although he was young, Harry knew that age wasn't everything and that growing up with the practice would help a great deal. Harry remembered all the years he would watch his father work, and what he acquired in knowledge in the process.
The case had been scheduled in the middle of December, a few days after the start of Winter Holidays.
Harry calmly made his way to the travel store, where he had bought his school trunk while shopping for his first year supplies. Giving a slight nod to the man at the counter, Harry made his way to the tent selection at the back of the store.
At the moment, Harry could not afford a monthly rent, so he decided that he was going to make a onetime purchase for his makeshift home. The only option Harry knew that included all of his needs would be a wizarding tent.
It was slightly embarrassing, knowing that he would be soon living in a tent, but Harry was going to make due. The great thing about wizarding tents is that you could buy one with a kitchen and a bathroom, so he wouldn't have to worry about staying clean or preparing his meals.
He would soon learn how to apparate, so he would just set up camp at some remote site and be able to easily go to work. There would be no rent or mortgage he would have to worry about; he would just have to make sure he took good care of it.
Selecting the most basic tent with the kitchen and bathroom facilities, Harry paid the twenty eight Galleon fee before heading towards the bookstore.
Harry would have to put down wards around his campsite to make sure there were no trespassers, and to keep everything in fair working order. It wouldn't do for him to spend the money and have everything ruined by some animal or weather mishap.
He had already looked through the Hogwarts' library for a book on warding, but he only found a beginner's book on the introduction of the subject. He needed specifics on how to ward a certain area, and hoped that Flourish and Blotts would be able to help him out. He supposed he could have checked the bookstore at Hogsmeade, but Harry was already in London and figured it didn't really make a difference, he wasn't expected back for some time.
He located a book rather quickly. Keeping out the Nosy and Unwanted looked to have everything he needed. He would have spent more time at the store, but Harry knew that he would buy more books and really couldn't afford it at the moment.
Harry had less than four-hundred Galleons to his name before his trip to the Alley, and a chunk of it would be going to his attorney. Although he had been frugal and smart with his money, Harry had always been able to buy whatever he wanted. Budgeting would have to become something familiar to the Ravenclaw.
Making his way back to the Leaky Cauldron's Floo, Harry thought over his options. It would take time, but he would show his ex-family what he was worth.
-Line Break-
Harry sighed morosely, currently looking at his new home. He had set up camp in Epping Forest located in Essex. He was sure that no one would come looking for him here. It was quite some distance from Wales, and consequently Godric's Hollow.
Harry knew that with the wards he placed he would not be bothered by any person or animal, but the smell of cattle that roamed the area was fairly depressing. He would have to look up scenting charms.
It had been a lack of insight on his part, being the bare minimum; the tent did not contain any furniture. Harry had always been thankful that he had inherited his father's talent for Transfiguration, but the bed he had made out of a rock was pretty lumpy. He had been spoiled, not only by his bed at Godric's Hollow, but also his dorm bed at Hogwarts.
Being independent was turning out to be a bit deal tougher than he had originally thought. Harry had no delusions that his life would be considerably harder now that he was on his own, but he had hoped that it would at least be somewhat comfy. All Harry had to look forward was a soon to be lumpy couch transfigured out of some more rocks.
Harry was glad that he had at least mastered apparition in record time. He had spent the weekends before the holiday at the ministry for his lessons. In all honesty, Harry thought that the twelve sessions were a waste of time, when all you really needed was practice. Harry understood the time restrictions normal students took during the school year, but learning at the ministry was more individually focused. Harry tried arguing that he should be reimbursed the lessons that he didn't need, but the ministry refused.
Harry had a little over an hour left before his trial set at two. He had been in contact with Madam Pomfrey and Mr. Cresswell throughout the school year and break.
Usually confident, Harry was feeling quite nervous. It was nerve-racking, the thought of testifying in a court full of people. What if they didn't believe him? "That's what the Veritaserum is for," he berated himself.
Mr. Cresswell had already gone over the details of what to expect. The court had agreed to the using of the truth serum, not only on Harry, but the Gryffindor boys as well. Harry had mailed Neville Longbottom about testifying, but he had not received a response. It wasn't strictly necessary, so Harry wasn't too worried. He had thought that Neville could be his ace in the hole, but he didn't need it. Harry had known who is assailants were and was going to prove it.
Although he was not doing it for the money, the boys deserved to be brought to justice, Harry knew he could use the extra cash. His funds were roughly three hundred and thirty Galleons, but maybe two hundred of it would be going to Mr. Cresswell.
Taking a calming breath, Harry laid a rock where he wanted his couch to be. Concentrating, Harry quickly transfigured the stone into a two-seater couch. It looked to be cozy, but Harry knew looks could be deceiving when it came to magic. Testing the quality, Harry was surprised; it looked like he would be sleeping here from now on. Hopefully he would be able to transfigure a bigger sofa that was just as comfortable.
Casting a tempus charm, Harry realized he only had thirty minutes until his trial. Quickly changing into his best robes, he apparated to the phone booth outside the ministry. After passing the security check in the ministry atrium, Harry made his way toward Courtroom Four.
Mr. Cresswell was waiting for him, but seemed a little distracted. His expression was a little pinched, and his hands a tad bit shaky. "Don't worry Mr. Cresswell. I know this is very early in your career, but I have the upmost confident that you will be great." Harry said fake cheerfully. He had hoped that Mr. Cresswell would be encouraging him.
"It's not that Mr. Patterson. I-"he hesitated, looking even more nervous than before. "I heard that Mr. Dumbledore would be testifying against you, and I don't know if that will change our expected outcome." Mr. Cresswell sighed, "It's not every day you go against the man who defeated Grindelwald."
It was not shock he was feeling, but a hint of betrayal. No matter what Harry had thought of his Headmaster, he had never believed that he would cross this line. It seemed Gryffindors were put on a pedestal which no other student could reach. At least they still had the Veritaserum.
The courtroom was quite small, with a raised desk for the judge, and rows of seats for the witnesses. There was also a chair in the center of the room, where the testifier would sit, but it was lacking the chains Harry knew to be on the one in Courtroom Ten.
Amelia Bones was the presiding judge that day; Harry had heard that she was fair in all her proceedings. It was a relief that her opinion would not be swayed by Albus Dumbledore.
After the opening statement by Mr. Cresswell, Harry was made to make his statement. He nervously wiped his hands on his trousers, peaking at the crowd that had shown up. There were the two boys, Cormac McLaggen and Roderick Seaton, and their families, all sneering down at him. The only two, besides the lawyers, were Dumbledore and Madam Pomfrey. Harry let out a sigh of relief; at least this wasn't too public.
"Do you agree to testify under Veritaserum, Mr. Patterson?" asked Mrs. Bones, which Harry nodded his assent.
"I'm afraid I must object," Dumbledore stated, standing up from the bench. "Mr. Patterson was confounded that night, and is confused about the identity of his attackers. I believe that the only truthful way to find what occurred that night would be to administer Veritaserum to the two boys Mr. Patterson is accusing."
"I was not confounded," Harry replied. "That is just the excuse you came up with when we talking in your office."
The Headmaster smiled benignly at him, "Ah, but that is what someone confounded would say. You can't be a hundred percent sure you were not, my boy."
Even with Madam Pomfrey's testimony that Harry had not been confounded, it was determined that if what Harry was saying was true, than the boys would spill the beans after a dose of the truth serum. Harry had no choice but to go with things, but he was suspicious of what the Headmaster was up to. Harry found it odd that Dumbledore would allow Veritaserum in the first place, when he was obviously against anything happening to one of his lions.
To Harry's horror, both boys gave accounts of playing board games in their dormitory the night of the attack. The Veritaserum had not worked, and Harry had a suspicion of who exactly was behind the matter.
"See my boy, you were just mistaken." Dumbledore dared to smile at him, "I am sorry that we could not bring to justice the people that harmed you. Unfortunately, your allegations have brought shame upon the McLaggen and Seaton families. There must be some retribution, don't you agree, Amelia dear?"
Harry could clearly see that Amelia did not want to press charges against him, but felt it was her duty to do so. "I fine Harry Patterson one hundred Galleons to be divided up by the families of the accused, for false accusations. If it is determined who really attacked Mr. Patterson, you can file for another trial. I hope everyone has a good afternoon."
The rest of the day was a blur to the Ravenclaw boy. He remembered going through the motions of signing the court trials, and handing over his money to both the families and his lawyer. Mr. Cresswell had been quite cold in demeanor, obviously thinking that Harry had lied to him, but Harry thought that unfair. Even if he had been confounded, which he knew for certain he had not, it wouldn't be his fault he thought the two boys to be his foes.
He now had twenty eight Galleons to his name. He didn't have food stocked, nor did he have many essentials. He would be able to transfigure a great deal of things, but one was to never transfigure things into food, in case the transformation wore off while in the body.
This was really not his year, Harry thought as he made his way back to his tent. Contemplating his life, Harry felt that he had drawn the short straw of the lot, but he was resourceful, and at this point things could only go up. He had always been persistent, and just because he was down on his luck did not mean that he would be any less determined.
He did not have a job, and he didn't know what he was exactly going to do with his life, but there was one thing that Harry was sure; Dumbledore and his Gryffindors would pay. If it was the last thing he did, Harry would make sure that they were brought to justice.
AN: Slightly longer than the first chapter, so I am pretty happy with it. I know I said that you would have to wait at least once a week for this to be updated, but my weekend plans fell through and I really had nothing better to do. I have gone back and edited the mistakes I found in the last chapter, hopefully I caught them all, but I currently do not have a Beta so I can't promise anything.
I have never been in a rape situation before so I do not know how a victim feels in the aftermath. I can guess that Harry does not display the normal emotional responses of a victim. The truth of the matter is that I am making Harry distanced from his attack. He knows it happened but he is kind of emotionally detached to the matter. I am planning on him having some emotional breakdowns and breakthroughs later in the story, but I can't promise anything.
I hope you enjoyed the chapter. Thank you reading :D
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