A.N This story is dedicated to The Green Eyed Cat.
For th trial scene, please bear with me, sadly I am not a solicitor and tried to make the scene as realistic as possible, but it will not be accurate to how a real trial would go.
Kingsley walked down the hallway, yawning as quietly as he could so as not to wake Mrs Black. He grimaced a little and rubbed his nose as the lingering ache reminded him of his welcome with Harry Potter's cricket bat the night before. Even though it had been healed the ache and bruise would linger for the rest of the day.
His embarrassment over being taken out by a 15 year old, that was going to last a little while, especially with Tonks around to tease him.
Showing up at the Boy-Who-Lived's house he had not known what to expect. The show house had been sort of what he had been expecting. The bedroom with a half-dressed Slytherin man mountain furiously firing stunners and then Harry Potter himself swinging a cricket bat with force straight at his face had been unexpected.
It had been an interesting night, and he was incredibly glad that he had managed to get the night off to go and get Harry.
Walking into the kitchen it seemed that he had walked into an impasse that had him pausing in the doorway and looking between what seemed to be three different sides.
Molly was sitting at the far end of the kitchen table with her arms crossed and an expression like she was sucking on a lemon. Sitting with her was Ginny, Arthur, Moody, Ron along with another couple of confused uncomfortable looking Order members.
Seated in the middle of the table were Bill, Fleur, Charlie, Hestia and a couple of other Order members who were hunkered down and concentrating on their breakfast.
At the opposite end of the table to Molly was Sirius, Remus, Tonks, Hermione, Fred and George. Standing at the stove cooking what looked like a small mound of pancakes was Harry, and seated in front of Harry with his arms crossed and an impressive scowl on his face was Marcus Flint. His eyes were trained on Harry watching him cook, but when Kingsley stepped into the room his eyes slid to him assessingly before moving back to Harry.
And then at least half the eyes turned to him with expectant expressions, and he realised that he was clearly expected to choose a side. Shrugging his shoulders he decided to go with the most interesting and moved to sit beside Tonks who grinned at him and wiggled her eyebrows. It had clearly been an interesting morning.
He glanced back to the Slytherin in the room, watching him watch Harry. There was something in his expression. He had a perfect Slytherin mask, blank and uncaring, giving nothing away. However, Kingsley was very good at his job, and he was very good at reading people. The Slytherin cared for Harry, and not just as a way to survive, he genuinely cared for Harry. His body language was protective, his eyes were watchful, he enjoyed watching Harry and cared for him.
It was interesting, very interesting, once a Slytherin got attached to someone, they would protect them with everything that they had. Him being so possessive of Harry was definitely going to be interesting.
"What's for breakfast?" He asked as he sat down, ignoring Molly apparently trying to burn a hole in the side of his head.
"Harry is making pancakes, apparently they are amazing," Tonks said brightly.
"So good!" Hermione nodded licking her lips as she watched Harry add another few pancakes to the pile he had already created.
"Amazing!" Fred or George hummed.
"I've never had his cooking before, I am looking forward to it!" Sirius beamed.
"He definitely does not take after James or Lily," Remus said quietly. His eyes were locked onto Marcus, and Kinglsey could see he was torn and confused as to what to think about the...unusual circumstances of the appearance of Flint in Harry's life.
"They were bad at cooking?" Hermione asked curiously.
"Merlin they were awful!" Sirius grimaced.
"Lily made us scrambled eggs once, she followed the recipe exactly, and they came out like rubber!" Remus chuckled.
"Harry is a good cook," Marcus grunted. Everyone turned to look at him, but he was not interested in anything but Harry.
"He should not be cooking, I should be..." Molly drew off at the look Marcus gave her before turning back to watch Harry.
"Ok, and ready," Harry smiled grabbing hold of the plate and placing it down on the table. "Oh, hi Kingsley, how are you feeling?" He added sheepishly seeing the auror there.
"I'm quite fine, thank you, a little tender still, you have a good swing!" Kingsley chuckled. He watched with interest as Harry scooped the top six pancakes from the pile and placed them on Marcus' plate, before taking three for himself. He grinned at Marcus when the Slytherin placed his chair back at the table and sat down, grunting in thanks for the food.
Harry then poured Marcus a cup of coffee and a glass of juice, before pouring a glass of juice for himself while Marcus poured syrup over his pancakes, and then Harry's.
"Thank you," Harry smiled again settling into his seat. The two seemed unaware that every eye on the table was on them, Kingsley reckoned they were quite aware though as they tucked into their food.
"So, you had a good summer so far?" Sirius asked as he grabbed a few pancakes himself.
"Yeah, we have had fun, I taught Marcus about the TV," Harry said brightly.
"Oh Merlin, really?!" Hermione snorted amusedly.
"Yup! He really liked it," Harry said proudly. Marcus let out a grunt they took to be a yes. "We even made a quick trip to the cinema. And Marcus expanded the bedrooms to give us a little more space. He is amazing at transfiguration,"
"That's brilliant, you are looking really good this summer," Marcus' eyes flicked up to Hermione searching her face after she had spoken.
"I reached an understanding with the Dursleys," He grunted.
"Good!" Hermione and Sirius gave near identical smirks. Marcus nodded his head to them before turning back to his food while Harry rolled his eyes before continuing to eat himself.
Kingsley shot Tonks a look, his new partner and he luckily had a great understanding between themselves. Leaning a little to the side she murmured softly.
"Molly tried to pull Harry away from the kitchen after he said that he wanted to cook breakfast for Sirius. Marcus nudged Harry into the kitchen and then plonked himself down there and made it clear he wasn't letting anyone passed,"
"I don't think he is Molly's biggest fan," Kingsley muttered back. "Nor Molly his," He added glancing down the table where the woman was trying to glare a hole into Marcus' head.
"Harry disappeared from the room Molly had placed him in with Ron, and was found in Marcus' room," Tonks muttered.
"I thought it only had a double bed," Kingsley blinked.
"It does," she smirked back.
"Are they..."
"Not yet, yet being the quite operative word," Tonks smirked.
"Oh that is going to go down well," Kingsley snickered. "What happened when they found him in Flint's room?"
"Molly went incredibly red, and Ron seemed seconds away from saying something quite stupid when Sirius came along and mentioned that he had always intended for Harry get the larger room as his heir," Tonks explained.
"Oh, this is going to be a very interesting summer," Kingsley sat back and watched as Harry chattered happily with Hermione and Sirius, laughing and joking, Marcus joining in every now and then but mainly seeming content to eat and listen to Harry chatting.
"What about the trial?" Hermione asked softly when there was a slight lull in the conversation.
"Dumbledore has plans for it, you need not worry," Hestia Jones smiled.
"I'm sorry?" Marcus looked up.
"What?" Hestia blinked at him.
"That is it, Dumbledore has plans? Harry is suspended, he has the potential to be expelled and have his wand snapped, he is facing a Ministry trial! And the very best that you have is, Dumbledore has plans?" Marcus snorted shaking his head.
"Well, I mean, he does!"
"If you are here to join the Order then you must trust Dumbledore," Arthur said softly.
"Now, now, that isn't true," Dumbledore swept into the room. "I heard we had an extra guest, unexpected,"
Marcus looked up and met those blue eyes. The Headmaster's expression was warm and friendly, but there was an underlying tension in him. And Marcus did not miss the fact that Dumbledore refused to look at Harry. He settled back into his seat and watched as the Headmaster moved to sit at the head of the table. McGonagall walked in beside him and took a seat, along with another few Order members.
"Good morning everyone, I hear that you had an eventful night," He smiled.
"It was quite interesting," Kingsley chuckled, waving Harry off when he looked at him sheepishly again.
"So you wish to join the Order Mr Flint," Dumbledore stated rather than asked, however as he opened his mouth to carry on Marcus interupted him.
"No,"
"...we will need a vow to...sorry?" Dumbledore drew to a halt staring a little lost at the Slytherin.
"I have no interest in joining the Order," Marcus shrugged. A muttering started around the table and everyone was looking concerned.
"What do you mean you don't want to join the Order? You can't be here and not be part of the Order," Someone Harry didn't know said from Molly's end of the table.
"I mean, that I have no desire to be part of the Order," Marcus snorted.
"Then why are you here?" Arthur frowned.
"Harry," Marcus said simply, causing a fair amount of blinking from around the table.
"Pardon?" McGonagall asked slowly.
"I'm here for Harry, no other reason," Marcus shrugged.
"So you are still a Pureblood supremacist then," Ron sneered. Everyone shuffled a little when Hermione coughed.
"Hello, muggleborn here," She waved.
"And?" Ron asked making Harry and Hermione roll their eyes.
"And he has been sitting next to me for an hour having a civilised conversation with me," Hermione said sharply. "Not very Pureblood supremacist,"
"So you are saying that in a matter of days he got rid of those prejudices?" Ginny asked coldly. Her expression was sharp and pinched.
"No, they have not gone away, it is not that simple. I was raised with these beliefs and had them beaten into my head. It is not that easy to let things like that go. However, I had my eyes opened in that graveyard, and I am trying to move passed what I have been taught to think and learning to think for myself. Spending time with Harry and Hermione is a great help for that," Marcus answered.
"Since when did the troll develop a brain?!" Ron sneered.
"Harry!" Marcus grabbed the younger teen and moved to block his view of Ron as the dark haired teen was on his feet with his wand in his hand in a second.
"Don't you dare speak about him like that!" Harry growled out.
"What he is thick!"
"You shouldn't throw stones in glass houses, Ron! Besides that, the Triwizard cup selected Marcus among everyone at Hogwarts, and we were the top two and won it! Do you think someone who is thick could do that?" Harry glared at the redhead.
"Harry, it is fine, it doesn't bother me," Marcus assured him softly.
"It bothers me!" Harry glared up at him.
"Don't kitten glare me, it is fine," Marcus tapped his chin gently.
"My glares are not kitten like," Harry pouted crossing his arms, but the anger was clearly fading fast.
"They kind of are, sorry," Marcus smirked before drawing Harry back to their seats. Harry blushed when he realised everyone's attention was on them, Marcus looked completely unbothered as he sat down, but he placed his arm along the back of Harry's chair this time.
"So, you are not here to join the Order, but for Harry, and that is it?" Remus asked. Harry turned to look at him feeling upset, but he could see a genuine question there.
"I have no interest in joining your Order, aside from anything what I have seen and heard of you has definitely made me sure that I want nothing to do with you. I am here because I care about Harry, and I will protect him. I have no intention of letting him get hurt again, so where he goes, I go," Marcus' expression was blank, his voice was not, and Harry felt goosebumps raising.
"Intense," George giggled.
"If you have no interest in being in the Order, then you should not be in this house," Molly snapped.
"Is this your house?" Marcus asked calmly.
"What...no but..."
"It's Sirius' house, being used for Order work. The only person that can tell me to leave is him," Marcus shrugged. And every eye in the room turned onto where Sirius was sitting.
Harry looked at his godfather and saw an unusually serious expression on his face as he stared at Marcus. The Slytherin looked right back at him, the two of them exchanging something as Harry looked concerned between the two.
"Siri?" Harry asked nervously.
"Marcus will always be welcome in my home," Sirius smiled.
"Thank you," Marcus nodded.
"Sirius, I really must protest, we can not have anyone that is not bound to Order vows in this house, the potential to hear something that could damage us, or for betrayal is too risky. I'm sorry Marcus, it is nothing personal," Dumbledore smiled.
"No, I understand," Marcus nodded after a moment.
"Marcus," Harry frowned turning to the older teen as his heart jolted. He started a little when Marcus turned and gripped Harry's hand.
"I vow that as long as the Order is on Harry Potter's side, I will never reveal any information that could be harmful or damaging to them, anything that is said within these walls will remain secret, I will not reveal the location or names of any of the members of the Order. I also vow to protect Harry Potter," as soon as Marcus uttered the last words of the vow Harry could feel the magic settle and seal around them.
"Marcus," He frowned slightly shaking his head.
"No one can doubt me now, and I have not vowed anything that I did not intend to do anyway," Marcus assured him.
"I'm not happy with you," Harry huffed.
"I know," Marcus smirked. Harry narrowed his eyes before huffing and crossing his arms.
"I'm not making banana bread cupcakes for a week,"
"What! Harry!" Marcus spluttered.
"I stand by what I said last night," Harry turned and looked directly at the Headmaster who was looking more and more lost as the scene played out.
"What was that?" McGonagall asked slowly.
"Where Marcus goes, I go," He said with finality.
"Well, with that vow in place there is no need for concern," Dumbledore laughed weakly. It was startling clear that they had thrown him, and he did not know what to do. "Now the trial you were concerned about, I can assure you I have everything under control, there is no need to worry,"
"You are kidding, right?" Marcus groaned. "That is not good enough!"
"I..."
"I have to agree Dumbledore, Harry is facing being expelled, I want to know how those Dementors got into the muggle world, why Harry is facing a full trial! And what you plan to make sure he is not expelled!" Sirius shook his head.
"It will be fine, I will be there on the day," Dumbledore waved them off, though he was looking more than a little tense.
"That will not be needed," Marcus said sharply.
"Meaning?" Molly snapped.
"Meaning that I have hired a solicitor for Harry," Marcus shrugged calmly.
"You can't just make decisions for him!" Ron scowled.
"Like you lot do you mean?" The silence following Marcus' calm declaration was deafening while Harry sat there blinking at Marcus slightly stunned for having the guts to say what he was thinking.
"Marcus didn't make the decision for me. I had no clue what was happening, if I was going to be expelled from school or not, I had no clue what I was going to do. I'm sorry but..." Harry drew off looking around the table uncertainly. A strong hand covered his on top of the table, squeezing it just right and somehow managing to give him the courage he needed. "...I had no clue if you were going to put something in place or not, this is my future, not yours. I don't even know most of you. Marcus told me that he knew a solicitor and that I had the right to have one,"
"You need to trust me,"
Harry grit his teeth, turning his hand to clench tightly onto Marcus' as anger washed over his system.
"To be fair yours and the other adults track records for being there when I needed you, aren't exactly great,"
"Harry! How dare you speak to the Headmaster like that!" Molly shrieked getting to her feet.
"Every single life or death situation I have ended up in, you have come in at the last minute after I have nearly died. I'm supposed to be safe at Hogwarts, and yet every single year myself, Hermione, Ron even Ginny have nearly ended up dead. You sent me back to the Dursleys who hate my guts and treated me worse than a House elf because I would be safe there, and yet a few days ago I was attacked by Dementors. I'm sorry Headmaster, but I am a little bit too old now for hero worship, reality has set in a little too much now. You have given me no reason to trust you with my ongoing future, never mind my life,"
"But you will trust a Slytherin!?" Ron sneered.
"Oh, I'm sorry, never mind the fact that Marcus took torture charms for me in the Graveyard, that he helped me prep for the third task to make sure that I might survive it. Never mind that he has spent the summer protecting me and looking after me, that he protected me from the Dursleys. No, I shouldn't trust him because he's a Slytherin," Harry snapped.
"Slytherins are..."
"Pettigrew was a Gryffindor! The world isn't black and white Ron! Grow up!" Harry glared.
"Harry, it's ok," Marcus shook his head.
"It's not!" Harry frowned upset.
"I don't care what anyone else thinks," The Slytherin shrugged.
"Oh!" The two of them turned to see Hermione sitting there with a look of recognition on her face. Harry frowned confused when Marcus smirked at her and nodded. "Oh!"
"What?" He asked frustrated.
"Nothing, give it a little more time, he can be a little bit slow sometimes," Hermione grinned at Marcus.
"I may care what she thinks, a little," Marcus shrugged turning back to Harry.
"Thank you," Hermione smiled brightly, and despite his confused Harry smiled happily as well.
"Harry, you don't need a solicitor, I will deal with this," Dumbledore frowned, clearly desperately trying to get control of the situation again.
"Actually I think I do. Blaise's uncle will also be helping me sue the Ministry for the things they have pulled over the last few years, including the smear campaign that they have started against me and Marcus for telling the truth about Voldemort being back," Harry ignored the shudder that went around the group at the sound of Voldemort's name.
"You can't sue the Ministry they..."
"Actually, it's not a bad idea," Kingsley hummed interrupting Moody and getting a death glare in response.
"What?" Hestia frowned.
"The Ministry is making a smear campaign against Harry, Marcus and Dumbledore because they are scared that Vold...Voldemort is back. They are trying to deny he is back, if Harry and Marcus sue them they can take it to court if they demand veritiserum to prove they aren't lying the Ministry won't be able to deny his return," Kingsley pointed out.
"Looks like it is win win for everyone then," Marcus smirked. Harry squeezed his hand where they were still joined on the table.
"You're going to make an interesting addition kid," Tonks laughed.
"Hey," Sirius smiled running his fingers through Harry's messy hair and kissing his temple. "Where is your shadow?"
"He's talking to Blaise's uncle over the floo and organising a meeting somewhere safe for us under Kingsley's supervision," Harry shrugged.
"Kingsley huh, think he is quite fond of the kid already,"
"He seems decent," Harry nodded. "Even after I hit him in the face," he grimaced.
"Serves them right. Marcus has been looking after you ok?" Sirius asked running his fingers through Harry's hair gently.
"I can look after myself," Harry glared a little.
"I know. But with that guard dog around you don't need to," Sirius laughed. "How are you doing?"
"Doing?" Harry asked confused.
"After everything that happened in the Graveyard. Are you ok? Are you having nightmares?" Sirius asked concerned.
"A few, they're getting better though. We normally get up and have some hot chocolate and talk for a little while," Harry shrugged.
"We?" Sirius grinned despite the concern on his face.
"Shut up," Harry grumbled.
"You have figured it out huh?" Sirius said after a moment of looking intently at Harry.
"I wasn't sure, but after his and Hermione's conversation this morning I am fairly sure I know," Harry nodded.
"And how are you feeling about it? I am fairly sure that you like him as well,"
"I do,"
"But?" Sirius asked softly.
"I don't want to put him in any more danger, and is now really the right time?" Harry frowned at his hands. Sirius reached out and covered them waiting till Harry looked up at him before he answered.
"Harry, Marcus is going to be in a lot of danger anyway, trust me I know where being traitor places you on the hit list. Also, it is Marcus' choice, not yours as to whether he takes that risk, he knows the risks well Harry he isn't stupid and he seems fairly determined that he is going to be at your side, no matter what your relationship is. As to the timing. Harry, life it is short, right now you don't want any regrets. Pup, if you care for each other, don't wait, don't regret things you haven't done," Sirius advised softly.
"I'm kind of scared," Harry admitted.
"Of what?"
"I...I feel a lot for him, and I think he feels a lot for me. This isn't just a crush, I haven't felt this way for anyone before I haven't had a crush on anyone else before!"
"Your dad and mum, they didn't date anyone but each other. Your mum, she couldn't stand James at first, but at the same time, there wasn't anyone else for her either. James, Merlin, he loved Lily from day one. There is nothing wrong with having strong feelings for someone without having done the crush and puppy dog love first,"
"Thank you," Harry smiled moving to hug Sirius.
"And people think you're oblivious," Sirius laughed.
"He isn't exactly subtle," Harry snorted.
"He looks at you quite...intently," Sirius chuckled.
"Tell me about it, I feel like a bug on a pin sometimes,"
"In a good way?"
"Definitely in a good way," Harry laughed.
"It's so good to see you pup, I was so worried," Sirius sighed contently hugging Harry even closer.
"It's really good to see you too," Harry hugged back until Sirius groaned in mock pain.
"Is this a good time?" Marcus asked stepping into the room and pausing.
"Always," Sirius beckoned him in patting the space next to Harry.
The dark haired teen grinned at Marcus as he sat down, the three of them were a little squished on the sofa, but Harry was happy to have the two most important men in his life close.
"So, Blaise's Uncle Xander is practically doing backflips at the thought of taking on this case," Marcus told them.
"Oh thank Merlin, I did not want to have to go crawling back to Dumbledore after the display this morning," Sirius sighed.
"I thought he was about to pop a blood vessel," Harry snickered.
"Wait till he meets Xander," Marcus smirked.
"So he is going to take the case on?" Harry asked.
"Oh yes! I am fairly sure he is skipping off to start the case right now. We arranged for a meet the day after tomorrow, Kingsley agreed to everything so we are good to go," Marcus nodded.
"Thank you," Harry touched his fingers to the back of Marcus' hand.
"You don't have to thank me for this," Marcus grunted. Harry could feel Sirius shaking behind him as he tried to hold in his laughter. "Have any of them bothered you?"
"Molly tried to drag me away, I think to tell me off for how inappropriate my behaviour is. And Ron has been hovering around," Harry shrugged.
"Where is Granger," Marcus frowned, he had expected to find the bushy-haired girl catching up with Harry, he had dragged his feet and spoken a little to the auror to give them time.
"Shouting at Ron, Fred and George put silencing charms up about forty minutes ago on Ron's room, I think even they felt bed for everyone hearing his humiliation," Sirius snickered.
"Remus is in hiding," Harry frowned a little.
Sirius reached out and cupped his forehead gently, pulling his head back so that he could kiss Harry's cheek. "Don't worry about Remus, he will come around. He just...struggles forming his own opinion sometimes,"
"If he upsets Harry again he will be struggling," Marcus scowled.
"Hey now, no one hurts Remus if they want to stay in my house!" Sirius said sharply. Harry squirmed uncomfortably between them. "Remus, so many people have doubted or judged Remus that when someone shows him kindness or understanding he tends to let that run the better of him until he can think it through," Sirius tried to explain seeing Harry's unhappy expression.
"So, because Dumbledore was kind to him and let him come to Hogwarts, he struggles to think that he and his opinion of Slytherins might be wrong?" Harry tried to understand.
"Yes, he did it with us as well," Sirius sighed.
"Us?" Harry questioned.
"You know that Snape and myself have a...difficult relationship?" Sirius asked slowly.
"Yes,"
"When we were in school together, James and I had a relationship with Snape that is not unlike your relationship with Malfoy. Except perhaps a little more vicious, James and I, in particular, could be quite cruel at times. Snape gave as good as he got and instigated things as much as we did. But, in hindsight, as an adult who has had much time to think over things...Snape probably didn't have the best childhood, and we were, well bullies really," Sirius sighed.
"Siri?" Harry frowned. Marcus reached out and linked their fingers together, squeezing gently to show he was there with Harry without interrupting.
"I know it isn't what you really want to hear Harry. And we don't really have any excuse for the way in which we acted beside we were just being arrogant little shits that didn't really think things through. That we were kids is just a small argument. However, we did grow up and grow out of it. Though as you know the enmity with Snape continued," Sirius grimaced.
"Dad was a bully?" Harry asked feeling a little shook up. As those accusations, Snape had thrown at him about James, had been true?
"He could be yes, I won't lie to you, but it isn't as black and white as it sounds. Yes, we could be cruel, and we took things too far sometimes, and the excuse that we were young isn't much of an excuse. However, it was a mutual dislike that we all instigated as much as each other,"
"Harry, I have been cruel to people in the past, and you are giving me a chance to prove that I can change, that I can understand better. Most purebloods, even light, are taught that they are better than others, that they are stronger and...more than anyone else. It creates a certain arrogance, and cruelty that takes time to lose, if we ever do," Marcus interrupted softly.
Harry frowned to himself, holding tighter onto Marcus' hand as he tried to wrap his head around what he was being told. In truth, he knew very little about his parents, and he had idealised them over time, especially knowing that essentially they were good people. They had chosen to fight against Voldemort, they had done their best to help their world, James had sacrificed himself to try and save Lily and Harry, Lily had sacrificed herself to try and protect Harry.
"I'm sorry pup I didn't mean to upset you," Sirius frowned looking upset himself.
"No, it's ok, I want to know who they were, who they really were, but I guess I have idealised them a little. And everyone always paints them to be perfect, its a bit...shocking that's all," Harry smiled weakly.
"They weren't perfect, but they were good people. James was protective of Remus to a fault, and he would never let him think badly about himself. He also looked after the first years in the first couple of months at school when they were getting homesick by telling stories in front of the fire really loudly to keep them entertained. We were kids and we were idiots, to be frank. James felt bad about it, when we were older and he found out Snape had become a Death Eater, he blamed himself and realised how we could have driven him to make the wrong choices with our actions. He tried to make amends before..." Sirius' face grimaced as the pain he obviously still felt over James' death flashed over his face.
"The world isn't black and white, you have said that yourself Harry," Marcus told him gently.
"Thank you for telling me the truth," Harry said softly.
"Are you ok?" Sirius asked concerned.
"Yes, yes I am. Will Remus...will he come around? I don't like arguing with him, but Marcus isn't negotiable," Harry asked Sirius, not seeing the small, happy expression that flashed across Marcus' face. Sirius, however, didn't miss it, neither did he miss the fact that their hands were still joined on Harry's knee.
"He will don't worry, I will talk to him if he carries on. Plus Tonks is quite fond of you two already, and she has no problems with Slytherins after being paired with Kingsley for a year already, I'm sure she will talk him around if I can't," Sirius chuckled.
"Tonks?" Harry asked curiously.
"Kingsley was a Slytherin, knew I liked him," Marcus hummed before grunting when Harry elbowed him in the stomach. He grinned at the younger teen at the glare he was receiving. Sirius smiled at the interaction between the two of them.
"Tonks has a little bit of a thing for Remus, and he for her I think, though I will have to give him a warning about not hurting her with her being family," Sirius responded.
"Family?" Harry asked confused.
"She is my second cousin. Her mother Andromeda is Narcissa and Bellatrix's sister. She ran off and married a muggle though, got herself disowned like me. We were quite close growing up, the two white sheep in the black family," Sirius grinned.
"I remember hearing something about that, it was a bit of a scandal wasn't it?" Marcus frowned.
"Yup, she was supposed to marry Rodolphus Lestrange, Narcissa was already betrothed to Lucius by the point Andromeda ran, so they had to settle for Bellatrix," Sirius smirked. "She was nutty as a fruitcake even then,"
"Huh, I thought you were the only special one," Harry teased nudging Sirius.
"I am one on my own!" Sirius huffed puffing out his chest.
"That you are," Marcus said dryly. Sirius and Harry turned to blink at him before they started laughing.
"Hey?" Harry asked once they had calmed down, Marcus sitting looking quite proud of himself. "Do you think Remus might come around easier if I tell him I was nearly in Slytherin?"
He turned to either side of himself curiously when he received nothing but silence, finding both men staring at him with equally incredulous and shocked expressions. "What?"
"What do you mean you were nearly in Slytherin?" Sirius asked slowly.
"Oh, the hate wanted to put me in Slytherin, but at that point all I had heard was that dark wizards came from Slytherin, and I had already had a couple of run ins with Draco who had been sorted into Slytherin, I could think of nothing worse than sharing a dorm with him for the next 7 years, so I asked the hat to put me somewhere else," Harry shrugged. "Did I not mention it before?"
"You were nearly a Slytherin? Oh, Merlin! I would have loved to have seen James' face!" Sirius started laughing.
"Are you kidding?!" Marcus suddenly thundered seeming to get over his shock. Harry turned and saw him looking furious.
"Marcus?" He asked uncertainly.
"You mean...you...you could have been a Slytherin but asked the hat to put you elsewhere?" Marcus scowled. Harry grimaced wondering if they were about to have another argument like the one that had driven him from the house just a week or so ago.
"Yes, but I didn't really know much of anything about the wizarding world back then and I was worried about going into a dark house and sharing with Draco and..."
"You could have been on the Slytherin Quidditch team and I would not have had to put up with that little shit!" Marcus growled. Harry bit his lip to try and keep in his laughter as he realised exactly why Marcus was upset. "No! You don't understand! I had to spend every single Quidditch practice listening to him, bitch about you, and no matter how much I disliked you at the time I could admit that you bested him on pure talent not because you were given any favours, and the whole time he would say 'wait till I tell my father' at least 10 times each practice! Adrian had to hold me back from shoving the quaffle, both bludgers and snitch down the little snots throat!" Marcus whined.
Harry took a breath and leant forward to kiss Marcus' cheek. "There, there, if I had known that I could have been saving you Quidditch related stress I would have gone to Slytherin," He grinned cheekily.
Marcus glared faintly at Sirius who was snickering behind them at the dumbfounded expression on Marcus' cheek, the Slytherin restraining himself from touching the warm patch of skin where Harry's lips had touched.
"Oh, Merlin Hairy wrinkled dangly JAM BAGS!" Hermione growled as she slammed the door open and walked in. Harry grinned and settled against Marcus' shoulder, throwing his legs over Sirius' while the two others gawped at her.
"Is he still alive?" He asked calmly.
"Just!" She snarled throwing herself into a chair and hugging a pillow like she was strangling it.
"Bad?"
"If I heard 'but he's a Slytherin' one more time I was going to hex him so he shit green and silver!" Hermione snarled.
"Oh, that is a good one!" Sirius grinned.
"You're quite vicious," Marcus said appreciatively.
"He drives me mad," Hermione sighed.
"There there, Molly is trying to move me back into a room with him," Harry comforted her. "What?" He turned to Marcus when the other teen grunted.
"Over my dead body," The Slytherin huffed.
"I'm sure they are trying to arrange that right now," Sirius snickered.
"I'm sure it over Harry's dead body as well," Hermione smirked.
"Pft, I wouldn't give them the pleasure. It will be over their stunned bodies, I brought the cricket bat with me!" Harry smirked.
"Merlin, you really are part Slytherin," Sirius blinked.
"Oh, you told them?" Hermione smiled.
"Marcus had a tantrum," Harry nodded.
"It was not a tantrum," Marcus scowled
"Tantrum. He is pissed he could have had me on the Slytherin Quidditch team,"
"Bloody quidditch!" Hermione rolled her eyes.
"Hey!" All three men protested like she had insulted their firstborns.
Harry ignored the dark looks he was being shot from Ginny, Molly and Ron...and the wiggling eyebrows from Fred, George and Tonks, as he stepped into Marcus and his bedroom. Marcus looked up from the bed, placing the book he was reading on dark arts down.
"Ok?" He frowned.
"My head is hurting," Harry groaned.
"We won't do occulamency tonight," Marcus frowned watching Harry slowly strip into his pyjamas as though every movement hurt. "That bad?"
"They decided once you were out the room they could 'convince' me I was being gullible. It turned into a bit of an argument. Hermione lost her temper,"
"Are there any bodies that need disposing of?" Marcus snorted making Harry laugh a little and then grimace. "Scary that girl,"
"Coming from you that is a compliment," Harry smiled faintly as he climbed onto the bed carefully trying to keep his head as still as possible.
"I like her," Marcus shrugged. Harry blinked both at the comment and at the hand that reached out to grip his elbow before he could lay down. He went with Marcus' guiding and placed his head into the Slytherin's lap.
"I'm glad, she means a lot to me, she is like my little sister. No matter what has happened, what everyone else has said about me, she is always there by my side," Harry said before sighing and going limp as clever fingers started massaging his temples.
"Who won?" Marcus asked after a few moments.
"It was a draw I think,"
"I would apologise, but I know you are just going to shout at me. So, I will thank you instead," Marcus said lowly, when Harry opened his eyes there was a serious expression on his face that stopped Harry from saying anything. "Blaise, Adrian and a couple of others are friends, actual friends. But no one has ever stuck up for me, and done something like this for me, not without wanting something from me in return,"
"I just want you in my life," Harry said softly, reaching up to brush his fingers over Marcus' cheek. "You mean a lot to me,"
Harry thought that maybe, Marcus was going to kiss him, his eyes seemed to darken even more, and become even more intense, and there was a hungry expression on his face. But then it passed and he went back to concentrating on massing the headache from Harry's head.
Later as he lay once again with Marcus' big, warm body spooned behind him, his snoring coming softly into his ear, Harry mused that perhaps it wasn't quite the right time yet, no matter how disappointed he had been. There was still something there stopping them.
"Marcus! Merlin you get bigger every time I see you!" Xander smiled as he and Blaise stood when they approached. He reached out and clapped Marcus on the shoulder, his eyes checking over him. There was no doubting that this man was Blaise's uncle, they were very close in looks.
"Xander, good to see you again. Thank you for taking this on," Marcus nodded as he shook Blaise's hand with a small welcoming smile that was echoed by the other Slytherin.
"Oh, no, this is my pleasure," Xander practically purred.
"May I introduce Harry," Marcus pressed his hand a little firmer against the base of Harry's back to draw him forward.
"A pleasure," Xander smiled taking Harry's hand.
"Thank you for your help, sir,"
"None of that, any friend of Marcus' is a friend of mine, please call me Xander," The solicitor waved him off before motioning to a seat. "Will your guards not be joining us?"
"No, they are sitting to keep watch," Harry rolled his eyes a little. He knew they had good reason to guard him, but at the same time, it was a little frustrating. Not to mention the argument that they had had over who would come. Harry had point blank refused Moody, he and the older man were knocking heads a lot over Marcus, and he did not like the way he treated him.
"Good to see you again Potter," Blaise nodded before grunting when Marcus elbowed him. "Harry," He wheezed.
"Nice to see you again Blaise," Harry tried, and failed to hide his laughter.
"Well, business first, why don't we get started, please tell me your side of everything, Marcus sent me the letters you received and gave me a good head start, but I want to hear it specifically from yourself," Xander asked as he pulled out a quill and parchment. Blaise huffed, settling down into a chair and looked attentive.
"I plan on joining Uncle Xander when I finish Hogwarts, he's letting me sit in on this and help," Blaise explained seeing Harry's questioningly look.
"If you do not mind, he has sworn the vows of a solicitor and cannot break your confidence," Xander added.
"Of course, that's fine," Harry waved off.
Marcus ordered for Harry as the younger teen launched into his story, starting from second year until the events of the other day. The solicitor listened attentively, scribbling notes in a shorthand that Harry would never be able to translate. He asked a few questions here and there or asked Harry to clarify, when they reached the events with the Dementors he asked Marcus a few questions as well, but aside from that he just listened.
"Ok, well the first thing is obviously the trial, it is a shambles to be honest so that will be dealt with quickly enough. The law clearly states that underage wizards are allowed to use magic if it is for their own safety and/or the safety of others, the statue of secrecy says the same thing. The fact that no muggles actually witnessed anything either makes the whole thing a farce. With presenting Marcus as a witness, and if you are happy with it suggesting that you would both be more than happy to submit memories of the event, it will be cleared up in an hour," Xander said thoughtfully as he checked over his notes.
"Brilliant," Harry sighed relaxing back into his chair and taking a sip of the smoothie that Marcus had ordered for him with a roll of his eyes while ordering a black coffee that had made Harry roll his. He rested his back comfortably against Marcus' arm which was lying on the back of his chair, grinning cheekily when the Slytherin raised an eyebrow at him.
When he turned back both Zabini's were watching them intently, making Harry flush. Marcus of course just stared straight back at them. He could also feel Remus' eyes burning into them from where he was sitting at the next table.
"The next part is suing the Ministry. I want to do this as a threefold attack. First suing them for defamation of character, for accusing you both of lying and the smear campaign that they are running. For harassment and bullying with this trial and the smear campaign. And lastly for undue stress and upset that they have caused. I mean the two letters that they sent expelling you, then not expelling you will get us far," Xander said nodding to himself.
"We can win?" Harry asked eagerly.
"It is going to be a walk in the park, and when we are done, they will be terrified to even look at you wrong," Xander looked gleeful at the prospect.
"Would you as my solicitor be able to watch what is being said about me and keep on top of it? Full time," Harry asked.
"Y..yes that would is a service I offer," Xander nodded.
"Ok, I trust Marcus' opinion and word, but I want to see what you can do. If you win this trial coming up, I will want to hire you full time. I don't want anything said about me," Harry sighed.
"That sounds fair to me. I like a good challenge. I would not be able to stop anything at all being said about you, unfortunately, the nature of your fame makes this impossible. What I can do is make sure that the bare minimum is said about you. Starting by suing the Daily Prophet now for the things that they have been saying about you, and for the things that they posted last year considering you are still a minor, and they went way beyond reporting on the tournament," Xander nodded.
"That would also make them think twice about reporting this whole trial thing right?" Harry asked.
"Correct," Xander smiled nodding.
"Go for it then!" Harry nodded.
"Wonderful! I will get on this straight away, we will meet two hours before the trial and go over the plans before it," Xander nodded more to himself than anyone else, already scribbling away eagerly.
"Since when were you so Slytherin about things Pot..Harry," Blaise asked. Harry and Marcus shared a look and then Marcus turned back to Blaise with a smirk.
"Well, considering the hat wanted to put him into Slytherin, it's not a shock really,"
"What?!" Blaise gawped losing all Slytherin composure in face of the information.
"Harry, we need to get going," Remus said softly approaching the table. Marcus and Blaise had been chatting and catching up with each other, with Harry adding into the conversation here and there, but happy to allow Marcus time with his friend. He knew that the last couple of months had been hard on Marcus, and no matter how oblivious he seemed the pressure of dislike in Grimmauld had to be uncomfortable for him at the very least.
Harry frowned slightly but Marcus cupped the back of his neck and squeezed gently. "He's right, we have been out in the open long enough,"
Remus looked at Marcus and then gave him a small nod of appreciation.
"We will see you the day after tomorrow," Xander stood to shake their hands, already looking so satisfied and confident that Harry felt a large chunk of the worry he had been feeling about the trial ease.
"Thank you again for your help," Harry said honestly.
"You're more than welcome, don't worry Harry, we will win this one," Xander assured him.
"Absolutely not! He is not going with Harry!" Molly shouted motioning to Marcus.
"He is!" Sirius shouted back.
"The Order is going with him! It is insulting enough that Harry turned down the Headmaster's help, it will do no good for his image to be dragging a Slytherin around with him!" Molly was nearly purple as she shouted at Sirius.
"If I can't go with Harry the only person I trust with my godson is Marcus! He is going whether I have to shove him through the floo myself!" Sirius was bright red and shouting back just as loudly. It seemed the tension between the two adults had finally snapped. And most of the Order was there to stand around gawping to see it.
"It is bad enough that they share a room, never mind a bed! He is inserting himself into Harry's life and making him think that he needs him! This is ridiculous, Harry will be moving into the room he should be in, with Ron, he will stop hanging off of that boy! He..."
"If you don't like what I allow under my roof, then get the fuck out of my house, you nosy, interfering, self-absorbed harridan! You are more concerned that Harry is pulling away from Ronald and so your family, and that the Weasleys are losing the claim of best friend and family to the boy-who-lived, doesn't matter if Harry is happy or not!" Sirius suddenly managed to hit a higher volume, roaring over Molly.
"How dare..."
"How dare you! This is my house! You come in here and think you can take over, that you can order my godson around in this house! Never! Harry can share a bed with 17 Slytherins if he likes, it is my place to tell him no! I like your family well enough, and I like Ron, he is clever and thoughtful when he wants to be, but he needs to get his temper under control. Harry was alone with only Hermione and Marcus showing that they believed he didn't put his name in the cup! My pup was facing a death tournament, knowing someone had to mean him harm by putting his name in that cup, he was scared and alone, and your son, his best friend lost his temper and because of his self-confidence issues he took it out on Harry and called him a liar! He needs to learn to think before he loses his temper and that not all of his actions and words can be undone with a simple sorry! And you trying to force them together shows your hand Molly Weasley. Now Marcus is a welcomed guest in this home, far welcomed over you. Do not try my hand, the blood wards in this place are ancient magic, and I will bar you over Dumbledore's word if you try me!"
Harry gawped at his Godfather who was standing in front of himself and Marcus, radiating fury and magic like an aura. He looked furious, in a way Harry had not seen since Pettigrew was revealed. His words meant more to Harry than he would ever be able to say as well, and a glance at Marcus told him the same went for him.
"Aside from anything else, considering I am being called as a witness, I have not choice but to be there," Marcus added dryly. Molly turned and opened and closed her mouth at him like a cod on dry land. Sirius' grey eyes meanwhile were sparkling in amusement.
Harry could not help but glance at Ron, and saw his once best friend standing there looking serious as he took in what Sirius had said to him. He could see that they had hit home, and he could see that they had hurt. And a large part of him felt a streak of vindictiveness flash through him. He wanted Ron to feel bad, he wanted him to realise how much his words had hurt him.
"We're going to be late if we don't leave now. Harry, Marcus this way," Remus instructed softly. Harry followed Remus, Tonks and Hestia Jones to the drawing room with Hermione, Sirius and Marcus following behind.
"I will have to leave you once we arrive, but Remus and Hestia will stick with you, Arthur will be meeting you there with your solicitor. I'm going on ahead to make sure everything is ok. Good luck!" Tonks bounced forward, nearly poked Harry's eyes out as she went to hug him. He chuckled and hugged her back.
"Pft I don't need luck, I have a Slytherin lawyer, they hate to lose," He grinned. Laughing she nodded and stepped into the fireplace, whooshing away.
"I know you will win so I won't say good luck. See you when you get back," Hermione said firmly hugging him till his ribs ached.
"Go kick their butts!" Sirius grinned pulling him into a warm hug.
"I will go first, Hermione has warned me about your flooing skills," Marcus smirked.
"Traitor!" He heard Harry muttering before he flashed away.
He landed smoothly in the Ministry, stepping neatly to the side he turned and waited for Harry. He nodded a quick acknowledgement to Xander and Blaise, who were looking spectacular in their finest robes. Arthur was standing looking quite drab in comparison and more than a little annoyed and put out. Wait till he finds out about the argument, Marcus thought dryly before turning back as the fire flared.
Reaching out he quickly caught and steadied Harry before he could go flying, pulling him close and holding him with an ar around his waist as beautiful green eyes blinked rapidly up at him, clearly trying to regain his balance.
"I hate all wizarding travel but brooms!" Harry grumbled. Marcus' lips twitched earning him a glare from Harry knowing he was thinking about his first taste of apparation.
"Harry, this way, we will have a chat and..." Xander frowned when he spotted a young witch hurrying towards them. If Harry had not been looking closely he would have missed the note that passed between them as the witch 'brushed' passed Xander.
After a beat Xander lifted the file in his hands as though consulting them and opened the note quickly before letting out a soft oath.
"They have changed the bloody time and place of the trial, this way!" He quickly ushered Harry, and so Marcus, forwards and towards the lifts. Harry barely had time to look around the spectacular green tiled Ministry atrium, with the beautiful golden fountain at the centre, before they were standing in the lift.
"How can they change the time and place without letting him know?!" Remus demanded once the lift was closed.
"No doubt they will climb misdirected post, or that Harry is lying after they have charged him with contempt of court. Honestly! When I am finished with them they are going to be...No time for that. Harry this is now being held in a courtroom, an official courtroom with a full Wizengamot..."
"What...for underage magic!" Marcus snapped.
"I know, I know it is ridiculous. Harry it is going to look intimidating, and there are going to be around 40-50 witches and wizards sitting in that room waiting to judge you. Now I don't have time to prepare you any further than I did the other day. But trust me, I will win this, and I am going to use this ridiculousness against them!" Xander snarled. The doors to the lift opened and they hurried out and down a dull, black and grey tiled corridor.
"Ok," Harry nodded feeling his heart thundering in his chest.
"Harry, I know that this is going to be scary and intimidating, and that is exactly what they want. They are looking to intimidate you, and throw you off with all of this," Xander said quickly as they hurried down the corridor. "But I need you to go in there and radiate confidence, you need to show them that they aren't winning. They are going to try and throw you off. Do not lose your temper. Do not get upset. If they interrupt you when you are talking, don't try and carry on, don't stammer, don't get angry. Just stop talking and I will step in and deal with it, understand?"
"Yes," Harry nodded quickly. Marcus hesitated for a moment before he took Harry's arm when they stopped outside of the courtroom door, holding up his hand when Xander went to protest.
"Hey, look at me," Marcus said softly. Harry took a deep breath and met those brown eyes. "There you are. You are going to be fine. Take a deep breath and concentrate on the breathing and meditation exercises that we do for your occulamency. If you feel yourself getting angry or upset, relax your mind. You have faced down dragons, mermaids, sphinxes and spiders, V...Voldemort and Death Eaters by yourself, this, this is nothing and you are not alone this time," Marcus said cupping his cheek gently.
"Thank you," Harry took a deep breath and let it out slowly, feeling himself relaxing and calming.
"Ready?" Marcus smiled.
"Ready," Harry nodded.
Xander smiled at him when they reached them before he opened the door and stepped through, Harry and then Blaise following. The Courtroom was just like the one Harry had seen a few months before in the Headmaster's pensieve of the trials of the Death Eaters. He could understand why everyone was so put out now.
Xander led Harry towards the chair in the centre of the circular room, he eyed the chains hanging off of the chair nervously, remembering how they had imprisoned the person seated on it in the pensieve. Xander motioned him towards it, however, and remembering what he had said about looking confident, he held his head high and moved over to sit down.
When he faced forward and looked at the witches and wizards seated looking down at him he was happy to see the glances being exchanged and the looks being shot at Xander.
"You are late Mr Potter! You are just short of being charged with contempt of court!" Fudge blustered.
"My client was not informed of the change of time or location of the trial," Xander answered.
"The owl was sent out this morning!" Fudge drew himself back. Harry watched as the Wizengamot exchanged looks while Xander smirked like the cat that had the cream.
"Well in that case," He paused for nothing but the dramatic effect as he placed his file down on the table that appeared for him, making a great show of straightening the before looking up. "My first act will be to draw attention to the unfair manner with which my client is treated. Not only is he apparently being tried for underage magic in a courtroom with a full Wizengamot - which should the records be checked I am sure would go down in history as the first case of this happening - he has been treated to undue stress and upset by being informed that he was expelled from Hogwarts and Ministry workers were on their way to snap his wand. His suspension from Hogwarts and the decision for this trial was made without the normal procedure of a member of the Improper Use of Magic Office Ministry of Magic coming out to assess the situation and whether the use of magic was warranted or not, if there was thought that it was not it was then, and only then that that choice should have been made. After all that, he is dragged here, only to find that the time and location of the trial has been changed with less than the official 24-hour notice that should be given before any changes to official appointments," Xander finished and sat in the seat next to where Blaise was sitting smirking.
"Well...this is also a trial for use of magic in a muggle area breaking the statute of secrecy. What has your client to say to that!"
Harry had to employ his occulamency for the first time during the trial, and not because he was angry or upset as he thought it would be, but to stop himself from laughing as Fudge gestured wildly to him, looking more than a little deranged.
"I will be making a case today that my client acted out of concern for his own safety and for that of another wizard, and so acted well within our laws, which allow underaged wizards and witches to use magic in defence of their own lives," Xander said calmly.
"The court will question Harry James Potter first!" Fudge snapped. "Mr Potter! Is it true that you used magic in a muggle area?!"
"Yes, becau..."
"Is it true that you used a spell in an area that any muggle could have witnessed you performing said spell!?"
"Yes, but..."
"Is it true that you were aware you could not use magic outside of Hogwarts?"
"Yes," Harry didn't even bother trying to add anything else this time.
"Is it true you also received a warning when you were 12 about using magic outside of Hogwarts?"
"Yes,"
"Is it true you also used magic outside of Hogwarts when you were 13, performing a spell on your aunt?"
"Yes,"
"Well, then it is quite clear that this young man has played free with our laws and sits here quite calmly admitting to this blatant breaking of our most sacred law..."
"Objection!" Xander stood.
"What?" Fudge blinked at him stunned.
"Objection, as in I object to the statement that you just made," Xander said slowly, as though Fudge was a little slow...which not far from the truth really.
"What are you objecting!?" Fudge said offended. Again Harry had to calm himself as the ridiculous man puffed himself up.
"I am objecting to the fact that you are leading the Wizengamot, I am also objecting to the fact that you have not allowed my client to answer you fully and interrupted him. I am also objecting to the fact that the Minister of Magic is taking part in the trial of a simple act of underage Wizardry and breaking of the statute,"
"I am allowed to take part in any cases I wish," Fudge blustered. Xander nodded to Blaise who scribbled something in the notebook in front of him, Blaise was here Harry knew to observe, but also to note down anything that could be used to add to Harry suing the Ministry.
"May I take my turn with questioning my client?" Xander asked calmly, while Fudge was getting redder and redder,
"Yes!" Fudge snarled.
"Mr Potter, could you please inform the court as to why you felt you had no other choice but to use magic, despite knowing - as you have already stated - that you are not allowed to use magic outside of Hogwarts, and that you already had a warning on your file," Xander asked smoothly.
"Yes, thank you. My friend and I were taking a walk near my home, when we both felt the effects of Dementors washing over us..."
"The boy claims Dementors were the reason he used magic, in a muggle area, in summer! Ha! Any excuse!" Fudge bellowed gesturing at Harry again. Harry and Xander were not the only people that looked at him incredulously.
"Objection, the prosecutor is interrupting the witness. He has had his turn in question my client!" Xander sounded calm, but Harry could see his annoyance at the idiocy of the Minister.
"Sustained...Minister, please refrain from interrupting the suspect," An uncomfortable official looking Witch coughed.
"Mr Potter, please continue," Xander nodded.
"I recognised the feel of the Dementor before it appeared in the tunnel, and had my wand ready..."
"How would a boy recognise the feel of Dementors?!" Fudge snorted.
"Objection!" Xander's eyes widened a little with incredulous exasperation.
"Sustained...Minister please," The witch sighed.
"Mr Potter, would you please answer how you knew the feeling of a dementor though please?" Another witch higher in the room asked.
"The Ministry placed Dementors at Hogwarts during my Third year at Hogwarts. I had...two direct run-ins with Dementors during that time. I am also sensitive to them, so I tend to feel them coming before most people do," Harry answered.
"What do you mean by sensitive?" A witch tittered from the crowd. Her tone, however, had Harry's ire rising and he had to take a breath to calm himself before he answered.
"I mean that dementors affect people differently depending on what bad memories they have of their past, someone with a more traumatic past will feel the Dementors before most people," Harry explained as Remus had explained it to him.
"And what traumatic event exactly is it that a boy of 15 would remember?" Fudge sneered. Harry stared at him a little incredulously.
"The murder of my parents," Harry said in a blank tone. A rustle went through the Wizengamot and Xander nodded at Harry.
"Please continue Mr Potter," Xander nodded.
"When the dementor appeared in the tunnel I cast the Patronus spell to push the Dementor away to protect myself and my friend," Harry finished.
"You are claiming that the spell you cast, the spell that most adult wizards struggle to cast, is the Patronus spell? A corporeal Patronus, strong enough to chase off the supposed Dementor?" The witch who had tittered sneered at him.
"Mr Potter, would you have your wand with you?" Xander asked.
"Yes,"
"Would you consent to me casting Priori incantantem on your wand?" Xander asked. They had discussed this, and Xander had warned him that they would cast doubt on the fact that he had cast a Patronus strong enough to chase away a dementor.
"Of course," Harry withdrew his wand and held it out to Xander.
"Priori Incantantem," Xander said as he held their wand tips together. Harry watched with interest as a ghostly version of Prongs burst from his wand and cantered around the courtroom to the gasps of the Wizengamot before he faded. "Even more impressive in reality I am sure," He smirked.
He paused to allow the Court to catch up.
"Now, as has been mentioned you already have a warning on file for underage wizardry outside of school in a muggle area, in front of muggles? And in another case you performed magic on a muggle?" Xander turned back to Harry handing him his wand back as he spoke.
"Yes,"
"The first incident, did any members of the Ministry come out to investigate what had happened?" Xander asked.
"No," Harry answered calmly. He had not been happy when he realised that someone should have come out to investigate.
"Can you tell me in your words what happened?" Xander asked.
"Yes, a house elf came to my home to warn me of the events that were going to happen during my second year of Hogwarts, he came to tell me not to return to Hogwarts because he was worried for my safety. When I told him I had to go back he tried to get me into trouble by using magic to float a cake and drop it on the head of one of the muggles who were visiting my family,"
"A house elf! First a Dementor, next a House-elf, what will be next a unicorn? A Centaur? How about a giant?" Fudge laughed.
"Objection!" Xander said frustrated. "Will the Minister please stop mocking my client, it is wholly unprofessional, and considering the last time he did so we proved him wrong, perhaps he should wait till he has proof or an actual relevant question before interrupting?!"
Fudge went bright red at the scolding, blowing up like a balloon.
"Sustained," The witch was looking more uncomfortable than ever.
"Thank you," Xander nodded. "And the incident with your aunt?"
"It was accidental magic. Marge is my uncle's aunt, she does not like me very much, and whenever we have spent time together, she has not been pleasant, to the point were she would even hit me if she could," Harry took a breath as he watched Xander and Blaise's eyes widening shocked at the revelation he had not spoken in front of Marcus or the Order. Murmuring and shocked gasps started among the Wizengamot. "She was there a week, and during that week she hit me five times, and constantly insulted me. I was drying the dishes when she started insulting me again, then she started insulting my parents. 'If there is something wrong with the bitch there will be something wrong with the pup'. She called my father a drunk waste of space. I tried walking away when I could feel my temper going, and she carried on. In the end I lost my temper and in a fit of accidental magic accidentally cast on her," Harry answered as calmly as he could.
"And have you cast accidental magic in the past?" Xander asked.
"Yes,"
"Is it true you managed to apparate when you were 6?"
"Yes that's right," Harry nodded. A soft, impressed mutter went around the Wizengamot.
"Last question Mr Potter, would you be willing to cast a vow of truth if requested?" The whole court practically held their breaths at the question.
"Yes!" Harry nodded firmly.
"Wonderful. I have no further questions for the suspect," Xander smiled.
"No further questions," Fudge muttered.
"Then I would like to call Mr Marcus Flint as a witness," Xander nodded. A court aid went to the door of the court and poked his head out, motioning Marcus into the court. He walked to the seat he was indicated to, his face the perfect Slytherin mask. Though his eyes shot to Harry and locked on him once he had sat down.
"Mr Flint, were you with Mr Potter on the night in question?" Xander asked.
"Yes, I was,"
"And could you describe please what happened,"
"We had gone for a walk after supper, we were just talking. We went into an underground pass when Harry froze, I inquired what was wrong when I felt it myself. A cold feeling washed over me, and then the feeling that nothing would be right in the world again. Harry told me that was Dementors, as I know he faced them before I didn't doubt he would know them, he has quite a bad reaction to them..."
"And how did you know that at the time?!" Fudge snapped. Marcus turned and blinked at him.
"Objection!" Xander spat out.
"Sustained, but could Mr Flint please answer the question," The witch nodded.
"The Dementors that were around the school during my fifth year invaded the Quidditch pitch during the Gryffindor/Hufflepuff match. We all saw Harry fall from his broom when the effect of the dementors washed over him, he had passed out. If the Headmaster had not managed to slow his fall, he probably would have died," Marcus asked.
"Wonderful, please continue," Xander nodded.
"Thank you. I knew Harry has quite a bad reaction to Dementors, so I trusted his instincts, a few seconds later a dementor came into the underpass. Harry quickly cast his Patronus, and it pushed the Dementor away. I grabbed Harry and dragged him back to the house to keep him safe in case they attacked again," Marcus sat back.
"And you took no action during this time?" Xander asked. Harry frowned a little at the question, but Marcus just inclined his head.
"There was nothing that I could do, I am unable to cast the Patronus charm, I had my wand out, but I was not sure what I could do," Marcus answered.
"Did you feel threatened"
"A Dementor was in the middle of a muggle residence, coming down the underpass straight for us. Yes, I felt very threatened," Marcus answered.
"Did anyone else see this Dementor?" A witch called from the Wizengamot.
"As far as I can remember from my lessons muggles can't see Dementors, so I would presume no as there were no other wizards or witches in the area," Marcus answered dryly.
"So you have no proof of a Dementor being in a muggle area, hundreds of miles from Azkaban?" A wizard called.
"No proof except for my memories," Marcus shrugged.
"You are saying you're willing to provide a memory of the event?" The whole Wizengamot perked up at that. Harry could see that between his offer of a truth vow and Marcus' offer of the memory, the trial was rocketing their way.
"No further questions," Xander stepped back.
"Mr Flint, this is not the first time that you are vouching for a story Harry Potter is telling is it?" Fudge asked.
"Could you be more specific please?" Marcus sat back with a frown.
"Sorry?" Fudge blinked.
"Could you clarify what story I am vouching for Harry in please?" Marcus asked softly, dangerously.
"In the fact that You-know-who has returned!" Fudge bellowed turning an amazing shade of purple. Harry wondered if they were going to have to send for a medi-wizard soon.
"Oh that, yes I was also in the graveyard, I would also be more than willing to provide memory proof of that night as well if you wish to bring it into question here today. I have passed it to many other people to view," Marcus smiled.
"I...I erm...what is the nature of your relationship with Mr Potter?" Fudge scrambled.
"Objection," Xander called.
"Denied, we wish to hear the relationship between Mr Potter and Mr Flint to know how it could impact on the credibility of Mr Flint's witness statement,"
"Harry and I are friends," Marcus answered.
"Friends who are living together?" Fudge asked.
"It has been made more than clear to me that my life would be in danger should I return home. Harry was kind enough to allow me to stay with him. We have been through experiences together that has forged a very strong friendship," Marcus answered.
"The graveyard?" Fudge sneered.
"The graveyard, the tournament itself, even though I volunteered to take part in it, it was a time of stress and experiences that you know only three other people in the world can understand. That mixed with what happened in the graveyard has made us very close," Marcus nodded.
"So, you are only friends?" Fudge pressed.
"Objection, Mr Flint has answered the question," Xander protested.
"Sustained. Minister, is there something more specific that you wish to know?"
"Are you in a romantic relationship with Mr Potter?" Fudge asked. For the first time, Marcus looked uncomfortable, and he glanced at Harry.
"No, I'm not," Marcus answered.
"But you wish to be?" Fudge smirked.
"I have feelings for Harry, yes, strong feelings," Marcus was getting angry, and everyone could see it.
"And what would you do to protect him?" Fudge asked sharply.
"Anything, however, once again I would like to point out that I am..."
"That is all," Fudge snapped.
"Objection!" Xander snapped, looking quite angry himself.
"Please let the witness finish answered a question you have asked Minister,"
"Fine," Fudge waved his hand at Marcus making a vein pop in his head.
"I would like to point out that I am more than happy to supply memories of that night. My feelings for Harry not withstanding, there was a dementor there and we can provide all the proof you could want. If you have concerns about the validity of our testimony, then just say the word and we will supply you with irrefutable evidence," Marcus sat back.
"No further questions," Fudge muttered. Marcus stood and left the courtroom with one last lingering glance at Harry. They were going to have to have a conversation, Marcus had been forced to show his hand, and he knew that Harry would have read a lot more into the short answer he had given Fudge.
"Any further witnesses?" The Wizengamot member asked Xander.
"No," Xander stepped back to Blaise.
"Very well, closing statement Mr Zabini,"
"Myself and Mr Potter had proven without a doubt that a Dementor was at his home residence on the night in question, not only has a witness been provided, but he himself is more than willing to provide magical proof to back up beyond any reasonable doubt his statement. Not only should the incident for Mr Potter and the Dementor be cleared from his records, but also the other two incidents should be wiped from his records as well after the proof that has been given for those incidents," Xander stepped back and sat down with a small wink to Harry.
A bubble went around the Wizengamot and Fudge - which Xander twitched about - and it was like they were on fast forwards as they talked. They were behind the bubble for around 15 minutes which made it probably around half an hour for them.
"The Wizengamot has reached a decision," The forewoman called as soon as the bubble dropped.
Harry stood when Xander motioned to him, he and Blaise doing the same thing.
"Mr Potter is cleared of all charges and all previous incidents have been removed from his records," She called.
Harry let out a breath and smiled when Blaise came to stand next to him. Xander smiled at him before he picked up a file he had set to the side and approached the Wizengamot desk. Harry watched as they exchanged curious glances and confused looks as Xander approached the forewoman.
"Mr Zabini? Is there something else?" She asked.
"Yes, Mr Potter is lodging a lawsuit against the Ministry. Our grounds for lawsuit. This is your official notice," Xander smiled before turning and placed his hand on Harry's shoulder leading him from the courtroom, leaving the stunned Wizengamout behind them.
"Well?" Marcus demanded as they stepped out of the courtroom.
"I am offended, Marcus!" Xander huffed.
"Cleared of all charges, and everything previously on my record has been wiped," Harry smiled.
He took a breath before stepping forwards and wrapping his arms tightly around Marcus. "Harry?" The Slytherin asked confused.
"Thank you," Harry sighed drooping against the Slytherin as all the nerves and worry, the stress and upset washed from him. And he was just left with Marcus.
"Time to go home," Marcus combed his fingers through Harry's hair gently, supporting his weight a little as they walked.
"Thank you for your help," Harry smiled warmly holding his hand out to Xander.
"Thank you for supplying entertainment for me. I will carry on working on the lawsuit, and I will be in contact with you in a few days when I receive their official response," Xander patted his shoulder.
"Thank you for everything," Harry insisted.
"You're more than welcome. Now, off you go," Xander nodded.
"Look after each other," Blaise looked sharply at the two of them, clearly seeing and understanding.
"We will," Harry smiled brightly. He could feel Marcus staring at him, but he focussed on saying goodbye to the Zabini men, and then the trauma of having to floo, again.
Sirius hugged him close chattering away to Kingsley and laughing, it was slightly disturbing watching Sirius flirt and something happy about him moving on with his life as well. He rested his head on Sirius' shoulder and allowed himself to get a little lost in thought.
There had been a nervous group waiting for him when he got back to Headquarters, and they had been anxious about the result of the trial. The moment he told them he had been cleared, the twins and Sirius and Remus waved their wands, and the impromptu party had begun.
The feeling he had had when Sirius and Fred had revealed a brightly coloured sign in Slytherin colours declaring 'Congratulations on getting away with it' was fear, definitely fear.
It seemed for this at least the argument and tension had been put to the side, and everyone was laughing and enjoying themselves. There had been no comments, everyone had been on best behaviour.
"Harry," Remus touched his shoulder pulling him from his thoughts.
"Hi," Harry smiled at the werewolf.
"Marcus just slipped out and went upstairs," Remus said softly.
"Oh...thank you," Harry blinked shocked.
"He looks at you like he would punch anyone that hurts you, even himself. I can't argue with that," Remus kissed his forehead before walking over to Tonks where she smiled happily at him, her hair turning bright pink.
"Siri," Harry turned to his godfather. "I'm heading up,"
"What, but it is your party!" Sirius frowned.
"And I have loved it, but Marcus and I need to talk," Harry smiled. Sirius looked at him intently before nodding and holding him closer for a moment before letting him go. Harry smiled and kissed his cheek before he stood, and slipped from the room quietly, pausing only to grab a big slice of cake and two forks.
"Hi," Harry smiled when Marcus looked up.
"Harry, why are you up here? Your party," Marcus frowned lowering his book.
"I was just sitting with Siri watching him try and flirt with Kingsley, I'm not really a fan of big social gatherings," Harry laughed walking over to the bed and placing the cake in the centre before climbing up himself.
"Kingsley?" Marcus blinked.
"Yup," Harry nodded handing over a fork and settling back.
"How was that going?" Marcus asked curiously before digging into the 'crim' part of the cake that on a whole read 'Glad you're not a criminal'.
"Kind of painful. Rusty is definitely a word," Harry snickered. "I think Kinglsey found that endearing luckily,"
"So you would rather spend your time up here, than downstairs with all your friends," Marcus asked casually. It was adorable really because out of everything that Marcus was, casual was not it.
"I would rather spend time with you than most people," Harry shrugged, cutting a piece himself and popping it into his mouth.
"Harry...about what happened in court, what was said, I..."
"I know Marcus," Harry smiled softly.
"What?" Marcus frowned.
"Marcus, you aren't really subtle," Harry laughed moving the cake out the way. He knelt up and took Marcus' face in his hands as he watched the Slytherin start to withdraw into himself. "I'm not exactly subtle myself,"
"What?" Marcus frowned.
"Apparently more subtle than I thought," Harry sighed. "Marcus," Harry shook his head before pressing their lips together.
Marcus let out a stunned noise and for a few heart-wrenching moments he did nothing, and then his arms wrapped around Harry's waist, yanking him closer.
"Ok, you're kind of going to have to lead here," Harry smiled pulling back.
"What?" Marcus blinked, leaning in after his retreat.
"I've never kissed anyone before. I don't really know what I am doing here," He blushed. "What?" He asked at the look Marcus was giving him.
"No one?" He asked.
"No," Harry blushed even darker.
"No one at all?" Marcus pushed.
"Marcus!" Harry groaned leaning back and covering his face.
"Sorry," Marcus chuckled tugging his hands away. Once he was able to see Marcus, he took in the wide, honest smile on his face. His Slytherin cupped his face, stroking his thumb over Harry's cheek gently before he leant in and brushed their lips together.
It was so new, so new and scary to Harry, and amazing. So amazing. Marcus was patient and gentle, coaxing and leading, and definitely not pushing for anything more than Harry was ready to give.
It felt perfect. Marcus' strong arms were holding him close, and just right, one hand was against the base of his back, the other was in his hair. As far as first kisses went. Definitely perfect.
Leaning back when they parted Harry looked closely at Marcus, tilting his head as he drank in the other man's expression.
"What?" Marcus asked looking at him intently.
"You know this isn't just...fun for me right?"
"Considering the way you have stuck up for me against nearly everyone downstairs, yes, I know it is not just that for you," Marcus smiled.
"You make me feel..." Harry took a breath.
"Me too," Marcus smiled. "You...I'm not good with words. But I feel for you in a way I have never felt for anyone. I have meant every word I have said. I will protect you and make sure that you are ok, I will stay at your side for as long as you want me there, because you are very important to me,"
"I can be very Slytherin as well Marcus. I won't let you be taken from my side, because you're mine,"