Harry Potter and the Legend of the Shinobi

A/N: Hello! I'm back again. This time with Chapter 7, ah so amazed. I copied the article again from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, again with the proper citation. Please don't sue me. ((begs)) I would like to specially thank several people who inadvertently contributed to the chapter. First of all, Silent-Serpent, shuji, and anyone else who made me realize how little of Naruto there actually was in this fic. I tried to include him more in this chapter. What I'm going to do is finish writing this as is, then I'll go back and edit extensively. That's where a lot of Naruto's scenes will come in. So, forgive me for not focusing on him too much in the past six chapters. Second of all, Yue-neko deserves all the credit for her (oh, please tell me I'm right, pronoun wise. I'm so sorry if I'm wrong.) idea of having Naruto in detention. So this chapter is dedicated to Silent-Serpent, shuji, and Yue-neko for their feedback! And thanks to everyone else for their ideas and comments. I'll try to include as many suggestions as I can, but don't be too offended if I can't. I already have an outline of the story until the end, so I don't have much room for major changes. But little scenes are helpful. Oh, one more thing: Sirius knows that they are ninjas because he lives at the Order of the Phoenix headquarters and I only assumed that he would know how Dumbledore planned on protecting the Golden Trio, as I have heard them called. Thanks again everyone for the reviews! Happy Reading!

Chapter 7

The Hogwarts High Inquisitor

The next morning everyone tiredly dragged themselves down to breakfast. They had been up quite late talking to Sirius so they got very little sleep. Hermione yawned as she opened the morning newspaper, then her eyes suddenly widened as she saw the front page and remembered what Percy had said in his letter.

"Guys." She said simply. The tone of her voice was enough to cause all five of her friends to crowd around her and read the article around her shoulder.

MINISTY SEEKS EDUCATIONAL REFORM

DOLORES UMBRIDGE APPOINTED FIRST-EVER "HIGH INQUISITOR"

In a surprise move last night the Ministry of Magic passed new legislature giving itself an unprecedented level of control at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

"The Minister has been growing uneasy about goings-on at Hogwarts for some time" said Junior Undersecretary to the Minister, Percy Weasley. "He is now responding to concerns voiced by anxious parents, who feel the school may be moving in a direction they do not approve."

This is not the first time in recent weeks Fudge has used new laws to effect improvements at the Wizarding school. As recently as August 30th Educational Decree Twenty-two was passed, to ensure that, in the event of the current headmaster being unable to provide a candidate for a teaching post, the Ministry should select an appropriate person.

"That's how Dolores Umbridge came to be appointed to the teaching staff at Hogwarts," said Weasley last night. "Dumbledore couldn't find anyone so the Ministry put in Umbridge and of course, she's been an immediate success, totally revolutionizing the teaching of Defense Against the Dark Arts and providing the Minister with on-the-ground feedback about what's really happening at Hogwarts."

It is this last function that the Ministry has now formalized with the passing of Educational Degree Twenty-three, which creates the new position of 'Hogwarts High Inquisitor'.

"This is an exciting new phase in the Minister's plan to get to grips with what some are calling the "falling standards" at Hogwarts," said Weasley. "The Inquisitor will have powers to inspect her fellow educators and make sure that they are coming up to scratch. Professor Umbridge has been offered this position in addition to her teaching post, and we are delighted to say that she has accepted."

The Minister's new moves have received enthusiastic support from parents of students at Hogwarts.

"I feel much easier in my mind now that I know that Dumbledore is being subjected to fair and objective evaluation," said Mr. Lucius Malfoy, 41, speaking from his Wiltshire mansion last night. "Many of us with our children's best interests at heart have been concerned about some of Dumbledore's eccentric decisions in the last few years and will be glad to know that the Ministry in keeping an eye on the situation."

Among these 'eccentric decisions' are undoubtedly the controversial staff appointments previously described in this newspaper, which have included the hiring of werewolf Remus Lupin, half giant Rubeus Hagrid, and delusional ex-Auror 'Mad-Eye Moody'.

Rumors abound, of course, that Albus Dumbledore, once Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards, in no longer up to the task of managing the prestigious school of Hogwarts.

"I think the appointment of the Inquisitor is a first step toward ensuring that Hogwarts has a headmaster in whom we can all repose confidence." Said a Ministry insider last night.

Wizengamot elders Griselda Marchbanks and Tiberius Ogden have resigned in protest at the introduction of the post of Inquisitor to Hogwarts.

"Hogwarts is a school, not an outpost of Cornelius Fudge's office," said Madam Marchbanks. "This is a further attempt to discredit Albus Dumbledore." (For a full account of Madam Marchbanks' alleged links to subversive goblin groups, turn to page 17) (1).

There was yet another stunned silence. The six fifth years just stared at each other for a moment, completely shocked.

"Ah, okay." Naruto finally said, unable to keep the silence up.

"Wow." Hermione said. "I can't believe that the Minister is really taking control of Hogwarts like this."

"I don't really understand why." Sakura said, thinking. "It seems that he really thinks that Dumbledore is attempting a coup."

"Which is completely far fetched." Hermione said, shaking her head. Sasuke frowned.

"Can I talk to you guys? Alone." He whispered. The bell rang for classes, giving the shinobi the perfect opportunity to talk alone. As the rest of the classes pressed by them, the three stood off to the side in the Great Hall and talked about the article.

"I didn't like all the changes outlined in that article." Sasuke said quietly.

"Why? It shouldn't affect us protecting Harry." Naruto asked, confused.

"But Umbridge has already expressed resistance to both to claims that Voldemort has returned and our presence here." Sakura explained to the blond.

"And giving her more power is dangerous." Sasuke concluded.

"Oh," Naruto said. "Okay, now I'm worried."

"There's nothing we can do now, lets just get to class." The three ran off to Charms, having to move at break neck speeds just to make it in time.

That Friday night the genin once again found themselves in Dumbledore's office, explaining the ins and outs of their week to Kakashi. They explained about Sirius Black and voiced their concerns about the Hogwarts High Inquisitor.

"Don't take Sirius's words to seriously. Apparently he's very protective of Harry." Was all he had to say about Sirius. Kakashi had more concerns about the 'High Inquisitor'. "You saw how she was last week. Giving her more power is dangerous for us. You need to be on your best behavior." He said, staring straight at Naruto. When the blond looked around he found even his teammates were staring at him.

"What?!?" He said loudly. The other three immediately looked away. A vein throbbed in Naruto's forehead.

"Like I said, best behavior. I'm looking into Umbridge's background but it will take some time. By next week I'll be able to give you a better reading on how she'll affect our mission. In the meantime, keep your head down and don't do anything…irrational." Kakashi smiled at the three. "Have a good week."

"See you next week, sensei!" Sakura said with a return smile as she and Naruto opened the door and went down the stairs. Sasuke hung back.

"Something wrong?" Kakashi asked him. He sighed and found himself spilling the complete story of his and Sakura's experience with Malfoy. Including his feelings, which was a big thing for Sasuke.

"I know we're supposed to be lying low and I did the right thing by walking away but it still feels like running away." He finished, staring directly at the floor. Kakashi was silent for a moment.

"In our world, running away is looked down on. But the mission is always more important. If you had done what was right by our people, you would have raised suspicion with these people, messing with your ability to do your job. So, you did do the right thing, even by our terms." Sasuke looked at his teacher with skepticism. "I'm serious. This is why you haven't passed the Chuunin exam. You need to learn better leadership qualities." He held up a hand to silence Sasuke's protests. "You're focusing too much on your individual power, getting stronger. Focus on your leadership skills; your talents are developed enough, for now." Sasuke nodded.

"Fine. But that doesn't make me feel any better, just to say." He turned to leave. Kakashi sighed.

"Sasuke." The raven haired boy turned. "Just think-eventually, when the mission ends, you can kick that kid's ass, okay?" Sasuke smiled. "Feel better?"

"Yeah, that's a good image. Thanks sensei." Kakashi followed his student out of the circular office, messing up his dark black hair as he passed.

On Monday, the fifth year Gryffindors had the pleasure of watching Umbridge inspect, or rather torture, Trelawney, who was certainly one of their least favorite teachers. Naruto, Harry, and Ron had very difficult times keeping a straight face, while Sakura looked like she almost pitied the woman and Sasuke read a book under the table.

"You guys should stop laughing." Sakura whispered with a glance at the nervous looking teacher. "I mean, how would you feel if that were you being tortured by that witch?" She glanced at the two boys. "Are you guys even listening to me!?!?" She said in a slightly higher voice. The pair still didn't listen to her. Umbridge was coming closer to their table. "Well I guess you guys are just going to get in trouble since she's coming over here." Sasuke glanced up, swiftly closing his book. They watched with apprehension as Umbridge approached their table with a smug look on her face. They hadn't had much close contact with Umbridge since she came into power. Per Kakashi's instructions, they had stayed silent during classes and had bolted as soon as the bell rang. But now she rapidly approached, staring at them. It was inescapable. They would have to talk to her. Naruto, Harry, and Ron suddenly composed themselves as she approached.

"Do you mind if I ask you some questions about this particular class, dears?" Umbridge said in her high, falsely polite voice. The six nodded with grim faces. "Okay. Ms. Haruno." Sakura's green eyes flashed. "How does this class compare to the class at your old school? Since your old school was so advanced." She said in a condescending voice. Sasuke held his breath. Hard question. Sakura would have to make something up on the spot. And it would have to fit with their other stories.

"Well," Sakura said, thinking for a good thing to say. "The level of the class is about the same here as it is there. Or school did not place much importance on Divination." Sakura said, praying that she wouldn't be asked to elaborate. Umbridge almost looked disappointed, as if she wanted Sakura to mess up. She looked to Harry.

"Mr. Potter." She said. "How well would you say your attention holds in this class?" Umbridge obviously had seen them laughing earlier. Harry caught the question perfectly.

"The same as any other class." He said, holding his breath. Umbridge nodded, made a note on her clipboard, and walked away. Before turning to the next table, she glared back at their table, as if angry. Sakura and Sasuke exchanged a glance.

"It's obvious what she wants." Sasuke whispered in Sakura's ear as the three others calmed themselves down after their encounter with what they now call 'The Toad'.

"Definitely," Sakura said, watching her cross the room, interviewing other students. "She wants us gone."

Professor's McGonagall's inspection was far more interesting. It was the equivalent of one of Sakura and Ino's feuds. The tension in the room could be cut with a knife. McGonagall conducted class as usual, being the bigger person and ignoring the rivalry in the room. The class was dismissed after a tense period where they waited impatiently for something, anything to happen. But nothing did. Naruto was especially disappointed as the left the room.

"I can't believe nothing happened." He said mournfully. "It would have been so cool to watch them get into a fight or something." He failed to notice his companion's faces growing horrified. "I would have loved to see McGonagall kick that toad's fat ass." He laughed. "Hey, why aren't you guys laughing?" He asked, turning around and jumping out of his skin. Umbridge was looking at him sternly. "P-professor Umbridge…" Naruto said, smiling overly large. She scowled.

"Don't play with me, Mr. Uzumaki." She said harshly. "I'll see you in my office, tonight at seven o'clock sharp. If you're late, we meet every day for a week. So don't be late." She stalked away, leaving a stunned silence in her wake. Naruto's false smile faded giving way to a look of pure despair.

"Awwwww." He said. Sakura shook her head.

"You brought it on yourself, Naruto." She said. Sasuke nodded in agreement. Harry's eyes were darkening as he recalled his own horrific time in detention with the Toad. Ron was shaking his head in sympathy. Naruto groaned. What had he gotten himself into this time? One thing was certain; there would be no one to buy him ramen after.

Sharply at seven with a proper dejected look, Naruto knocked on Umbridge's door. He groaned as her girlish voice washed over him. He held on to a small hope that she had forgotten his detention and was not there. He opened the door. Umbridge sat smiling at her desk.

"Come in dear." She said overly sweet. Naruto gulped, sitting at a desk directly in front of the Toad.

"So, how long is this thing going to take?" He asked nonchalantly. Umbridge smiled.

"As long as it takes." Her smile was frightening. Naruto knew that anything that made Umbridge happy, spelled nothing good for him. "Nothing…too difficult. Just lines." She said, handing him a special quill and parchment. "'I will mind my mouth.' You can do lines, right?" Her tone was condescending. Naruto felt his temper rise.

"Yes." He said through clenched teeth, snatching up the quill and parchment. He sat down back down at the desk, starting to write in his messy handwriting. The second his pen touched the parchment, bloody furrows traced themselves in the back of his left hand in the same pattern that he wrote on the paper.

"WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT!?!?" Naruto shouted at the marks faded from his hand. Umbridge jumped out of her skin, unused to that kind of reaction. "WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING?!? MAKING ME WRITE IN MY OWN BLOOD! HOW SICK IS THAT?" Umbridge was completely speechless. "That's not detention, THAT'S TORTURE!! And I thought the teachers at the…my old school were mean." He shook his head. "Just wait until I tell Kakashi-sensei about this! He is going to flip out!" Umbridge finally recovered.

"That is quite enough, Mr. Uzumaki!" She shouted back. "There are no rules on how I conduct my detentions! I am Hogwarts High Inquisitor! There is nothing I cannot do!" She practically swelled with her own self-importance. "You will report for the next three weeks to detention for this little outburst. And if you tell anyone, I promise you, there will be even worse repercussions." Naruto glared back into Umbridge's equally furious eyes.

"Are you threatening me?" He asked. Umbridge frowned. None of the other students she had brought to detention had fought so hard. But none of them were Naruto Uzumaki, aspiring Hokage of the Village Hidden in the Leaves.

"I can't do whatever I well please." She said in a dangerous voice. "I am in control here. You will go back and write until the phrase has made a lasting impression. There will be no more talking." Naruto sensed he had lost this battle and picked up his chair, which he had knocked over sometime during his initial shouting fit. He sat down and began writing. The pain was easy to ignore, Naruto having adapted himself to pain long ago. But as the hours dragged on Naruto sensed something was wrong. He remembered when Harry was in detention. He returned to the Common Room at around ten or eleven. It was now far past midnight. And the bloody wounds disappeared, leaving his skin perfect every time. Umbridge looked very concerned about this.

"Give me your hand." She said, snatching up the completely healed hand. No trace of the wounds was left. "Write again." She demanded. Naruto wrote on the parchment again, Umbridge watching every movement. There! She saw it. Just after the wounds were made and the pen left the parchment a flare of dull red light surrounded the wound, closing it faster and with more efficiency than the quill was supposed to allow. She was furious.

"What's wrong, professor?" Naruto asked with a smirk. Umbridge's lips pursed.

"Get. Out." She hissed.

"What?" Naruto asked, surprised at the woman's answer.

"GET OUT OF MY OFFICE!" She shouted. Naruto scrambled up and out of his chair. "And don't bother coming back!" She called to his retreating back. Naruto paused outside the office, leaning against the office door. He had seen Umbridge's look when she examined his hand. This was dangerous.

At top speed he sped back to the common room, finding Sakura and Sasuke sitting at a table, waiting for him. The wizards were at an adjacent table, having their own conversation.

"Where've you been?" Sakura asked. "Did your detention really take that long?" Naruto's look was serious, for once.

"What's up?" Sasuke said, catching the look.

"I think I just gave something away…"

"Dolores I have to inquire as to why you are demanding a meeting at this late hour." Dumbledore said, suppressing a yawn. "As you can see, I'm not exactly dressed for the occasion." Dumbledore was looking comic in his dark blue pajamas with golden snitches covering them. Umbridge and Kakashi were more appropriately dressed, both in their normal wear.

"I'm also curious as to why you called me to this school in the dead of night." He said watching Umbridge with suspicious eyes, or rather a suspicious eye. Hers were dark, calculating. Something Kakashi definitely didn't like.

"I'm here to ask about one of your students." She said in a pompous voice. "Naruto Uzumaki." Kakashi sighed.

"I figured it as much." Damn it, Naruto. What did you do this time? "I hope he hasn't been causing too much trouble." Dolores smiled.

"Not too much. Normal for a student." She giggled falsely. Dumbledore and Kakashi didn't even break a smile. Her expression faltered. "But I've been noticing some…odd events." Kakashi's eyes narrowed. "Just some odd red energy when he performs spells. It seems to be getting stronger. I think we may have to take him out of classes until it's under control." Dumbledore was looking very serious. But it was Kakashi's turn to laugh, a quieter, colder laugh than Umbridge's false one.

"I assure you, Naruto is in complete control over his power. You have absolutely no cause to worry." Umbridge frowned.

"I think I will be the one to decide that." She said venomously.

"No." Dumbledore said, rising from the desk. "The Ministry still does not have that much control over Hogwarts, as I said several weeks ago. That boy is a student of the school, and you have no right to expel him for no reason. He stays, unless there is evidence he must go." Umbridge almost growled, she was so angry at being defeated again. "Now I would appreciate if you got out of my office. It is nearing one o'clock in the morning, and I would like to get some sleep." Umbridge whirled around, storming out of the office without another look at either of them. Dumbledore chuckled at Kakashi. "This is turning out more trouble than I bargained for."

"My apologies." Kakashi said sarcastically. "But you hired us, remember. You should have known that those kids would be trouble. That woman is becoming a bother. Naruto better watch himself."

"The Kyuubi?" Dumbledore asked. Kakashi nodded. "Is there any danger of it breaking though?"

"Definitely not." Kakashi said immediately. "Even if it does, I didn't lie to Umbridge. He has complete control over it. There is no danger." Dumbledore sighed.

"I hope you're right." He said as Kakashi vanished from sight in the annoying way of shinobis.

(1) Rowling, JK. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. New York: Scholastic Inc, 2003.

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