13 Bella's Ranting's 3
For Disclaimer, and how I write money, and time: See Chapter 1
THIS STORY DOES NOT FOLLOW CANON AND MAY BASH SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE CHARACTERS!
Chapter 5: School and Vacation
Potter Manor
Thursday was a quiet day at Potter Manor. Harry and Hermione spent a lot of time holding Luna and talking to her softly. Harry asked her to tell him about the good times she had with her Dad. Luna did that then for some reason she started talking about school and it was quite unpleasant. Inside Harry James Potter was seething and quite ready to do gross damage to several bitches. Outside somehow he kept a calm persona and talked quietly and calmly with his youngest betrothed.
Luna wanted and received a lot of light kisses and hugs from Harry and Hermione. At one point Harry excused himself to go to the loo.
Luna asked, "Hermione how bad will he hurt those bitches? I really didn't mean to tell that but it just started rolling out."
Hermione hugged Luna close, "Actually I think you and I will convince him later to let us handle them ourselves. The hard part will be convincing him to let them back in Hogwarts at all. However, we have four years to convince him it's the right thing to do. We also have four years to practice what we will do to them. By then we'll probably have our NEWTs plus some hand to hand fighting experience."
Harry returned and sat Luna in his lap, "Luna, I've been thinking and the best way to stop that shit is for you and Hermione to handle it. If I step in every time it will make you look weak and you are strong so they need to know that. I could stop them from coming to Hogwarts but that wouldn't solve anything either. If you kick their asses, it may help someone else. The whole thing changes if I hear an insult. Then it becomes an insult to the house as far as I'm concerned. Does that make sense?"
Luna giggled, "Yes love, it makes perfect sense. As head of house you can never appear weak or they'll try to tear the house down."
Harry hugged her close and winked at Hermione who nodded. The day seemed to drag since the funeral was a sunset. The small service grew as Luna's new friends and their families attended to support her. Near the end of the service, Luna sang Amazing Grace and did a beautiful job. At the end, Harry lifted her in his arms and with Hermione's hand on his shoulder disappeared. Sirius, Dan, and Emma soon joined them in the newly named family room.
Harry was cooing to her, "Luna remember love, you'll always have us as family. I know it's not the same but we do love you."
She snuggled into him and cried, "I know and don't know what I would do without you and Hermione."
"That my dear," Harry said, "You'll never have to find out I promise."
While her heart ached for her parents, Luna Lovegood-Potter-Ravenclaw found another comforting feeling of love. While it wouldn't replace what she had for her parents, it was soothing, as she knew she had her mate and he loved her. That night Luna slept in the middle surrounded by the love of Harry and Hermione.
00-00-00
Deep in Gringotts, Draco and Lucius Malfoy thought their intestines were on fire and they couldn't even scream. They heard over and over again in their heads, "this is for Luna and what you bastards would have done to her. I've paid good money to keep your asses alive and alert to the pain, so enjoy it compliments of the Duke of Gryffindor."
00-00-00
Near the English Channel, a snake would have screamed if it was able. The spirit that possessed the snake knew it was weak and hurting like never before. It couldn't understand how it was losing magic but knew it was. Voldemort no longer knew if he could possess anyone and control them. He did know he no longer had a link with Harry Potter. Tom drew just a little more magic from his followers thinking he could always get more followers.
00-00-00
At Hogwarts Minerva was reviewing the day as she sipped her third glass of single malt scotch. She had taken Poppy and Hagrid to Gringotts hoping to prove Harry wrong about Dumbledore. However, Harry was right and now she, Poppy, and Hagrid had their memories back. Hagrid would be in the Gringotts Medical facility over night while the bindings on his magic were removed.
Minerva sent Filius to Xeno Lovegood's funeral since he was Luna' Head of House. He showed her the memory and for a funeral, it was the saddest she had ever seen until Luna sang. Her song seemed to lift the sadness from everyone but her. Luna's voice was that of an angel providing comfort to the others and taking their pain on herself. She thought, hopefully tomorrow will be a better day and a new beginning. With Albus gone perhaps we have a chance to do things right.
00-00-00
The evening of 15 June 1994, had started out nice at the Burrow and ended in a storm. Bill decided to visit and get a home cooked meal that he didn't cook himself. He saw the Daily Prophet with the picture of Harry and the basilisk that announced that Gringotts purchased part of it.
Ron cried, "Why am in not mentioned in the paper I helped kill it. Harry Bloody Potter takes all the credit, gets the fame and money, and I get nothing."
Bill couldn't hold it any longer and stated, "I saw the memory of what happened and you were nowhere in it. Harry killed that thing to save your sister and it almost cost him his life. What did you do besides fuck up and almost get Ginny killed and Voldemort back in a young body? Oh, that's right you couldn't even take care of a brain dead idiot so you went to sleep."
Molly yelled, "Bill that's not true."
Bill's voice was cold when he said, "Well let's look at a certified goblin crystal and see shall we?"
Bill put a memory crystal on the table and tapped it with his wand. This memory was different in that it showed from the time Ginny was discovered missing to finding Ron asleep. When it ended even Percy had tears in his eyes.
Bill wasn't finished, "That diary still has some weak but wicked charms on it. Dad, Ginny needs to see a mind healer and Malfoy will pay for it since he put it in her book."
Molly stated, "She doesn't need a healer she needs the love of her family."
Bill stood and said in an icy voice, "Ginny will see a healer or I'll go in front of the Wizengamot and ask for custody claiming you're abusing her. Dad if you don't take control of this house now I damn sure will. Ron, Harry asked me to tell you that you'll get every Knut you deserve."
Ron smiled dreaming of what he would do with all the gold he got from Harry. The twins shuddered at the coming rant when Ron got nothing.
Finally Arthur spoke, "Bill, take Ginny to St. Mungos please, and ask them to do what's best for Ginny."
"No, I forbid it," Molly yelled.
"Molly your days of forbidding anything are over. You will do as I say or I'll throw you out with nothing but your clothes. If I detect another potion in my food or drink, I'll have you in Azkaban. As I say so shall it be." Arthur stated.
Arthur then turned to his youngest four, "Ginny go with Bill, Ron sit up straight and eat like a human, and I'm beginning to think you need a mind healer also. Fred and George you will get your grades up and quit slacking off or this is your last year in school, and Ron that goes for you also."
After pausing Arthur continued, "You all need to keep in mind so far since the first of this month Harry has taken out Dumbledore, Snape, his relatives, and the Malfoys. I don't want the Weasleys added to that growing list."
Bill interjected, "Dad my team worked with Harry taking out curses at Hogwarts placed by Voldemort. That young man is at least a mage if not a grand mage. He broke through curses my combined team couldn't touch and he did it silently with no wand movement. Rumor at the bank says the High Council is going to give him status equal to a warrior commander. Godric Gryffindor was never given that honor so this is a big thing."
Ron mumbled, "Harry gets even more and we get nothing."
When Bill's magic flared even Ron noticed it. "Ronald Weasley, Harry Potter is getting nothing except what he earned. If you got off your lazy ass, and quit worrying about Quidditch and chess and actually earned something you just might get ahead in this life. With Dumbledore gone and Minerva in charge you may find yourself back in first year with the other eleven year olds."
"Bill…" Molly started and went silent.
"Bill's right," Arthur stated, "Thanks to your coddling him Molly, my youngest is a lazy, jealous git with no manners. That will change over this summer Ronald or I'll wear your ass out."
Bill shook his head wondering what his next words would bring. "Ronald, Hawkclaw, the Potter Account Manager, asked me to advise you that the money Dumbledore paid you to spy on Harry has been recovered and you now have no vault. So far the goblins won't treat you as an accessory to theft. If they do you'll be shoveling dragon shit next to Draco Malfoy."
Bill gave his mother a dirty look adding, "The goblins read Dumbledore's mind and aren't happy with you mother. If I were you, I would walk and talk carefully while in Gringotts. Their form of punishment makes prisoners beg to go to Azkaban. Come Ginny we'll eat at the Leaky Cauldron on our way to St. Mungos."
As they left, Bill and Ginny heard Arthur ask, "Molly what the hell have you done?"
Preparing to attend the National Magical Academy (NAMA)
Potter Manor was alive with people for the first time in years. In addition to Potter, there were several old families under it roof. Names like Abbott, Black, Bones, Davis, Goldstein, Granger, Greengrass, Longbottom, Lupin, and Patil now graced its halls. Ten of its eighteen suites had guests and that was about to change because the girls wanted their own room so they could talk.
After breakfast on 17 June, the Hogwarts Knights were sitting in the training room. Harry went from one to the next passing knowledge on Occlumency. Then he passed out books on Occlumency, wandless magic, and Potions. He took Tony aside and gave him a ring explaining what it was and what it did.
After joining the others Harry told them, "I propose that beginning Monday we start the day running to build stamina. The wandless book will tell you a strong body leads to a healthy mind and stronger magic. I think we should also work on our reflexes. The best way to handle an unforgivable curse is to not be where it arrives. I think we should run at 0600h, then shower and have breakfast. So let's vote on that please."
After they voted yes Harry added, "My second proposal is that we study in the morning while our minds are fresh then after lunch we practice for an hour. After practice, we relax by whatever way that suits us. One thing we need to do is get our non-flyers up to speed in the air. The Hogwarts brooms should have been replaced twenty years ago. The Quidditch shed has various models from Cleansweeps for beginners to Firebolts."
Hermione cringed and it wasn't missed by Harry. "Your Occlumency will help you if you suffer from Acrophobia or the fear of heights. The beginner's brooms are charmed so you can't fall or run into anything. For me flying is the ultimate in feeling free. The truth is I don't particularly like Quidditch but I do like flying and it's a way to let me fly. But being able to smash Draco into the turf was a nice bonus."
This discussion set how the next days would be spent. On the weekends, they visited different places both magical and mundane. Hermione suggested attending a theme park or an amusement park. They ended up going to Dobwalls Adventure Park and everyone enjoyed the trip even the adults.
NAMA
On 25 June 1994, the Hogwarts Knights, kissed the adults goodbye and stepped through the portal to Gringotts London. From the London bank, they went to Gringotts Singapore, and they were taken to NAMA. New students arrived the Saturday morning before school started and spent ten days of time compression while they took tests including full physical exams.
At the school, they were met by a tall blonde witch. "Good morning I am Headmistress Sarah Colton, welcome to NAMA. I'm amazed you have heard of us as you are the first British students in almost 80 years."
She then told them the schedule for the next ten days. Mentally they groaned because it was packed with tests and exams. The examinations were both magical and non-magical. The examiners were shocked at the magical scores and disappointed at the non-magical scores. When the test results were read Mrs. Colton suggested that their first year would be spent on Occlumency, wandless magic, and non-magical subjects. They agreed with that since they all tested at sixth year level in the magical subjects including Astoria.
The next thing they did was to be checked by a wand crafter, and obtain two custom wands. One would be a normal wand and the other Mrs. Colton called a battle wand. After being measured and checking out the various materials Mr. Morimoto, the wand crafter, told them their new wands would be ready at the end of their first school year.
They spent the rest of Saturday getting settled in. The medical staff had detected the bond between Harry, Hermione, and Luna so they were assigned their own room. Since there were no houses like at Hogwarts the Knights were housed together on the fifth floor and told, they would meet their floor chaperones tomorrow.
On Sunday morning after their run and showers, they were surprised to see Jason and Olivia Abbott sitting with the Headmistress. After breakfast, the Abbots were introduced as the chaperones for the fourth floor. The fifth floor chaperones were Jake and Shirley Jackson. Everyone but Hermione groaned when they saw their schedules. They had Occlumency, Wandless, World History, English Composition, Math, Science, and Physical Education.
Since it was a down day, they went shopping in the magical district of Singapore. They bought cell phones for them and those back home. Letters would be a waste since one outside day was 43 inside days. The letters with the phones suggested what time those in England should call those in Singapore. The next day was Monday, 27 June and when they woke up, they would be on compressed time.
Fortunately, the campus was large so when the time compression holiday arrived they had things to do besides study. There was four large pools, a lake, flying, football (soccer), baseball, and a small shopping mall that included what was called hawker stands that served great food.
They got to spend most weekends with Jason and Olivia Abbott. The spring term of their first year saw them move ahead a class year in their non-magical studies. The magical studies were changed to History of Magic and Potions/Herbology. Because of the knowledge passed to them by the rings Potions was now easy for them. The fact that they would now grow many of their own ingredients made Herbology a lot more interesting. Neville stood out in Herbology and helped his friends a lot. At the end of the first year, they were promoted to the eleventh grade in their non-magical classes. They took their History, Potions, and Herbology OWLs and thought they did well.
When Hermione started ranting about her history test Luna shoved a sock in her mouth. "Hermione, you can't change the past and reviewing a test is useless since you can't change an answer. So all you are doing is depressing the rest of us."
When the others agreed, Hermione turned red and apologized mumbling that she wasn't as bad a Luna made her out to be. Luna placed a memory crystal on the coffee table, and tapped it with her wand and challenged Hermione to say she was wrong.
Hermione rounded on Harry, "Was I this bad the last three years at Hogwarts?"
Harry replied between chuckles, "No. You were worse."
Neville agreed adding, "Luna stopped you before you reached full steam ahead. I guess you never noticed how the common room cleared when you started your rant. Even Weasley bailed out leaving poor Harry to take the brunt of your rants."
Harry pulled her onto his lap, "Hermione it's only a test not the end of the world, if you don't get a perfect score so what? What's important is what we learned, and how much more we know now than when we started."
Hermione nodded then kissed Harry thanking him for putting her feet back on the ground. Afterwards, she did the same for Luna. When they came out of time compression, they spent the day with Jason and Olivia's shopping. They had seafood at Long Beach Seafood Restaurant on the East Coast and left there stuffed and groaning about eating too much. Their last stop was at the Morimoto Wand Shop where they bought their new wands. The wands cost them a total of ₲150 of Malfoy's money, which Harry was happy to spend. They all carried six wands, one on each thigh and forearm, plus one on the front and back of their belts.
Harry asked Mr. Morimoto if anything could be done to boost the power of his Phoenix feather wand since he liked its feel, and it was his first wand.
The old man inspected the wand and explained, "I could add a basilisk heartstring and Phoenix tears but Mr. Potter it would cost you as much as both of your custom wands together."
"I can live with that Mr. Morimoto, the Phoenix that gave the feather also saved my life." Harry replied and the old man's eye showed his shock. "I was bitten by a basilisk, and he cried on the wound."
Morimoto nodded, "That explains the strange combination. May I ask how large was the basilisk?"
Harry chuckled knowing what was coming, "Right at 72 feet in length, and an average diameter of fourteen feet. The fang that pierced me was nearly two feet long."
Morimoto shuddered and shook his head mumbling, "He's damn lucky to have lived."
Harry agreed to pick the wand up during their next real time break.
Jason and Olivia were replaced by David and Sophie Greengrass to the relief of the Hogwarts Knights, who were now on the fourth floor. English Comp and History were replaced by Chemistry and Physics on the non-magical side. Fifth-year Charms, Defense, and Transfiguration were added on the magical side of their transcripts. They were now taking the five OWL or NEWT level core classes. They all received their OWLs in History, Potions, and Herbology and were sixth year students in those classes. They dropped History and added Runes, which was more work.
Unknown to other students the Hogwarts Knights were doing self-study in Arithmancy, and Warding. This year's Physical Education class focused on Martial Arts. They had purchased "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu for Defense as their book list indicated. They spent as much time with David and Sophie as they could especially on weekends and vacations. At the end of the first term they moved up a year on the non-magical side. They tested their OWLs in Defense, Charms, Transfiguration, Runes, Arithmancy, and Warding.
With the new term, came a change in classes for the Knights. Sue, Hannah, and Daphne dropped Arithmancy and took healing while they all dropped Defense in lieu of Battle Magic. Hermione's fears were put to rest when the Professor said if they passed their first term with an EE they would probably get an O in Defense if they took the NEWT for the class.
On a more personal level, the Potters were doing a lot more deep kissing but going no further than that. Daphne was also being drawn more and more into their family and spending more time with the three. Neville was now going with Susan and Hannah. While Tony, Tracy, and Padma were an item, Astoria (Stori) still thought boys were icky except for her three adopted brothers. The Potters and Daphne thought Stori would end up as Neville's consort to carry on the Greengrass name.
At the end of their second year, they took their NEWTs in Potions, Herbology, and Defense. They wanted more study in Runes, Arithmancy, and warding. They also added curse breaking and enchanting. Hermione eyes lit up when they were told that the first magical televisions (TVs) were a product of Runes and Enchanting mundane TV sets.
During their break between second and third year, they made their way back to Long Beach Seafood Restaurant, and Harry picked up his Phoenix wand. He must have thanked Morimoto twenty times while bragging about how good it felt. David and Sophie said they couldn't wait for vacation to see more of Singapore and enjoy the different foods available.
Joshua and Megan Davis were the new chaperones from Great Britain. The Hogwarts Knights were now on the third floor. They had their NEWTs in Defense, Potions, and Herbology. Neville and Hannah Abbott were starting on their Masters in Herbology. He wanted to start his own business supplying potions' ingredients. At the end of the first term, they had their NEWTs in everything except Healing, Battle Magic, and Enchanting. They started their Masteries. Hermione took the advanced course in Charms and Arithmancy. Luna did the same in Runes and Defense. Harry took Transfiguration and concentrated on Battle Magic and Enchanting. On the non-magical side, they graduated the USA equivalent of High School. They had Brown Belts in Karate and Tae Kwan Do with no interest to pursue black belts.
Third year ended with the Potters doing some exploring with clothes on and lots of kissing. Daphne was now definitely integrated into the family with David and Sophie agreeing to a betrothal with the Black family. Harry had learned enough in science about a girl's anatomy that he could tell when their monthly started and ended. He grew more sensitive to their feelings and more protective of them without hovering or smothering. Harry also never asked about their girl talks and never hinted at what they did behind closed doors.
When the third year ended, they took Josh and Megan to Long Beach and shopping. Even Hermione got past worrying about their exams. They sniggered about Harry taking on five Aurors during the Battle Magic NEWT and using two patronus charms to take out three while he quickly stunned the other two by shifting behind them. The examiner sat stunned as Harry completed the exam in less than a minute and the Patronus, a Hippogryph and a Griffin were still visible and pinning the Aurors against a wall. With a wave of his hand, Harry canceled the charms.
The head Auror said, "Son you have a job with us anytime you want it."
The examiner stuttered, "Bloody hell I've seen Masters that couldn't do that Mr. Potter. You just earned your NEWT and Mastery in Battle Magic."
Harry thanked the Aurors, and the examiner then faded to Hermione, Luna, and Daphne. He leaned in as said, "Don't hesitate to use parsel magic, silently of course."
Neville set a new record in Herbology and earned his Mastery he was now working on developing hybrids. Sue, Hannah, and Daphne received their NEWTs in Healing and certificates to practice Battle Healing. Sue and Hannah were on their way to obtain Masteries in Mind Healing. Daphne chose to concentrate on Runes and Warding.
At the beginning of the fourth year in time compression, Dan and Emma Granger were now their chaperones. After showing Dan and Emma around the campus and bringing them up to date on their studies, they retired to their common room.
"Luna we have some news for you," Emma stated, "It seems there was an error in recording your birth year at the Department of Records. Your actual birthday is 1 August 1980 not 2 September 1980. This was Dumbledore's doing, for some reason, that don't make sense to Hawkclaw or Ragnok."
"Well pooh, I'm still the youngest, but it does mean we can get married a month early," Luna stated causing Dan to grin and Emma to shake her head. Next loony Lovegood struck, "Alright! We get to party three days in a row for Neville, Harry, and then me. Afterwards, we can celebrate my other birthday and Hermione's. Ha, ha, Hermione you may be the oldest, but I get two birthdays. The Nargles said this would be a good year, and they were right. The only thing I can think of that would be better is dancing naked around a bond fire on my birthday with Harry, Hermione, and Daphne." Luna's face showed glee, and she sold her words to Dan and Emma until she started giggling.
Hermione said, "Luna you minx quit teasing my Mum and Dad they'll think your serious."
"I can't be Sirius he's Harry's godfather," Luna sniggered.
Since it was real time, Harry called Dobby and asked for the betrothal contract. He and Daphne signed the betrothal contract and it turned blue and disappeared. Harry suddenly had his hands full of a blonde who claimed his lips with hers. The next morning Harry woke with Hermione on his right Daphne on his left and their snuggle bunny Luna lying across them snoring softly.
The time compression year four for the Knights seemed to fly by at a speed approaching the speed of sound. Neville was now betrothed to Susan and Hannah with a consort agreement being negotiated with the Greengrasses for Astoria. The Patils, Davises, and Goldsteins were negotiating a betrothal between Padma, Tracy and Tony. Amar wanted to include Parvati but Tony and his parents weren't sure since she was an unknown.
When the year was over Headmistress Colton announced, "Ladies and gentlemen it's my duty to tell you the aging runes were set wrong and you have aged six months for each compressed year instead of three which is normal. I apologize for the error that went undetected since we didn't lose or gain any students it got overlooked."
The day before graduation, the Grangers were joined by Sirius and the other parents. The Knights showed them the campus then took them to Long Beach for dinner.
At graduation the next morning Headmistress Colton announced, "I'm going to save our British cousins for last for what will become obvious reasons at that time." She then called out the students that had received their OWLs and/or NEWTs.
She called forth the British students. "It has been over 80 years since British students have attended NAMA and to be honest the staff and I were hesitant to accept Hogwarts students. This was based on how far Hogwarts has fallen scholastically according to the ICW records. However, these eleven students have set records that will be hard to break. Their accomplishments are many and would take over an hour to do them justice so I will stick to their Masteries."
Mrs. Colton then announced masteries for:
Abbott, Hannah - Masteries in Herbology, Potions, and Battle Magic
Bones, Susan - Mastery in Mental Arts and Battle Magic
Davis, Tracy - Mastery in Mental Arts and Battle Magic
Goldstein, Anthony - Mastery in Potions and Battle Magic
Greengrass, Astoria - Mastery in Charms and Battle Magic
Greengrass, Daphne - Mastery in Runes and Battle Magic
Longbottom, Neville - Mastery in Herbology, Potions, and Battle Magic
Patil, Padma - Mastery in Transfiguration and Battle Magic
Potter, Harry - Mastery in Warding, Enchantment, Defense, Curse Breaking, and Battle Magic
Granger-Potter, Hermione - Mastery in Charms, Transfiguration, Arithmancy, and Battle Magic
Lovergood-Potter, Luna - Mastery in Transfiguration, Runes, Enchantment, Warding, and Battle Magic
Mrs. Colton announced, "These eleven students were tied for the top three spots in every class they took including the non-magical. Either they have individually or collectively, set records in each of their classes. One thing that still has our Chief Auror talking about is Mr. Potter taking down five of his best Aurors in less than one minute. Miss Granger–Potter was second as a minute three seconds and Miss Lovegood-Potter was third at a minute eight seconds. All of British students took down their Aurors in less than a minute thirty seconds. You will always be welcome here to pursue further studies, give seminars, or visit. Thank you for your time ladies and gentlemen this graduation for the summer class of 1994 is over."
Sirius almost yelled, "Pup how the hell did you take out five Aurors in less than a minute?"
Hermione giggled, "He cheated. He sent two patronus to take out three then shifted behind the other two and stunned them. By my watch it took twelve seconds and part of that was the examiner recognizing that the battle was over."
Harry just shrugged and smiled, "You would have the Aurors would remember what's in the Art of War and not have been surprised. The others had it more difficult because I was called first."
David interjected, "Harry, say what you will but the American Aurors have a reputation of being some of the best in the world."
Luna giggled, "We cheated because Harry taught us elf Legilimency and their surface thoughts were easy to read. But I agree they're a tough bunch."
They thanked Mrs. Colton and left NAMA for Potter Villa.
Harry asked, "If I have my head on straight Nev, Luna, and I are about to turn sixteen, and Hermione will be seventeen next month. The others are already sixteen and a couple of months old."
"Close enough pup," Sirius replied.
"Since we have a minimum of three NEWTs we're considered full adults now?" Harry implied.
"Right on," Remus answered.
"Great but how the hell do we prove it?" Harry questioned.
Amelia laughed, "Look at your passport Harry it's automatically updated to show your status."
"Oh," Harry said with a huge grin.
After two days of shopping and seeing the Zoo, taking the Night Safari, and eating the young ones were bored. They went to Gringotts and from there to Maui for two days then to Orlando and Disney World. They stayed on the magical side of the Polynesian Resort south of Magic Kingdom. The Potter Villa was under a Fidelius charm with mundane repelling and notice me not charms to keep non-magicals from seeing them enter or leave the Villa.
They held birthday parties for everyone at the Polynesian Resort in the form of a Luau in Luau Cove. After Singapore, the food was nothing to rave about but the entertainment was awesome. Luna ended up being the star by doing a hula then singing with the group. She got Harry up to hula with her and after starting in his eyes, he did a decent job. She even talked into singing Blue Hawaii and it kind of backfired on her as Harry could sing he just normally didn't. That evening they sat on the sand talking and Luna talked Harry into singing with her. He conjured a guitar and they sang Loving You and Love Me before calling it a night.
Harry, Neville, Tony, Luna, and Daphne took to Space Mountain like flies to honey. Hermione and the others liked Epcot Center but they managed to have fun at each of the attractions. Like all things, it was soon time for the vacation to come to an end and for them to return to Potter Manor.
00-00-00
Unknown to the Potters, Voldemort had managed to find Barty Crouch Jr. and convince him to do a ritual to move his spirit into a seven month old fetus. Barty grabbed Greg Goyle to assist him and to get Voldemort a wand from Knockturn Alley. Voldemort felt even weaker after the ritual as did Barty and Greg what seemed strange is that their magic wasn't recovering.
Potter Manor
Mattie welcomed Master Harry and his family home. He picked her up and swung her around then kissed her on the cheek telling her how good it was to be home. She was so flustered she couldn't chew him out for not acting like the lord he is. That evening, Sirius told them that the goblins found another of Voldemort soul containers in the London House of Black at 12 Grimmauld Place.
"Harry they detect one more northwest of London. The odd thing is that it seems to move but within a certain area almost like it's alive." Sirius told him.
"If it's not the primary a hundred galleons says it's a snake." Harry replied while thinking.
"Surely he wouldn't choose a live snake to hold his soul," Sirius remarked.
"Ok we have a ring and a locket supposedly connected to Salazar. However, if they are it's from one of his children or grandchildren. His symbol is not a snake it's a basilisk. Of course, a few generations later they may have thought it was a snake. But through a lot of things said about him including his looks, Voldemort is shown to favor snakes and the snake motif is there." Harry reasoned.
Sirius barked a laugh and confided, "That's true, and you can keep your money unless some fool is crazy enough to bet against you. Now the other thing is I got us top box tickets for the Quidditch World Cup. We're sitting with the French Minister for Magic and his family. You'll like André, Apolline, Fleur, and Gabrielle. The three ladies are Veela and gorgeous doesn't begin to describe them."
Harry snorted, "Sirius I have three ladies that no one can hold a candle to. They're all different and very beautiful, smart, and more importantly that have my back. Luna is the smallest and I'd place money on her against Voldy. Knowing her, she'd dance close and hit him in the neck with a Karate chop so she could watch him choke to death. And so help me if you come up with a betrothal with someone I don't know I'll let those three neuter you."
"Are you ready for the meeting tomorrow?" Sirius asked quietly.
Harry sulked for a few seconds, "Yes, and no. I want to get the money to the people but I don't want to see Ron or put up with his shit. Hermione will be in the audience with her parents as a victim, so Luna and Daphne will be with me to quote, keep Harry calm, unquote. It's time to get it over with and get past that part of my life."
Sirius shrugged then sniggered, "There's a strong rumor that say Arthur went through the pantry and threw out Molly's potion ingredients telling her it was no damn wonder they were broke with what she spent on potions. I guess now one of the twins goes shopping with her and pays for the items she buys. Arthur is now checking all of his food for love, lust, and loyalty potions. I guess he's on Ron's ass about his grades and not studying. Ron gets to stay home with his mother while the others come to the Quidditch Cup."
Gringotts 17 August 1994
At 0900h, Harry entered the Gringotts conference room seven with Luna on his left and Daphne on his right. Everyone stood as he entered.
"Good morning ladies and gentlemen, please be seated," Harry stated. "For those who don't know me I am Harry James Potter, Duke of Potter, Duke of Gryffindor, and Earl of Slytherin, heir to the House of Black. While this is a formal meeting, you need not call me Your Grace. Sir or Lord Potter will do. I'm sure you have seen the beast that almost killed either you or a member of your family. However, seeing it in action is different. Chief Ragnok if I may use my wand I would like to show the memory."
Ragnok nodded and Harry sat the cube down and tapped it with his wand. A half sized projection showed from the time Harry found out Ginny had been taken until they met up with Ron and Fawkes offered his tail. Even those who had seen it before had tears in their eyes.
Harry confessed, "I had a hard time figuring out how to distribute the funds from its sale and stay within our current laws. What I came up with is a percentage based on how an individual was harmed and or helped solve what was petrifying students. Hogwarts should have been closed when Mr. Filch's familiar was petrified. Dumbledore knew what had petrified his cat but did nothing. Some of you look like you don't believe me. I wear the Gryffindor and Slytherin ring while two of my betrothed wear the Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw rings. While we were in Hogwarts, the castle told us Dumbledore knew. The paintings, ghost, and even Peeves reports dangers to the Headmaster."
Harry paused and continued, "The person most harmed is Miss Ginevra Molly Weasley. Miss Weasley, please come to the lectern, Bill you may want to accompany her."
Bill and Ginny came to the lectern, "Ginny the amount written on the envelope is what was placed in a secure vault for you. The conditions are in the envelope, they are in place because you are under age."
Ginny looked and the envelope said: one hundred eighty thousand Galleons. Her knees went weak and Bill had to grab her. She was able to mumble thanks through her shock.
"Through the diligent effort of the next person who discovered what the beast was and how it was getting around I was able to find the opening to the Chamber of Secrets. In addition she was petrified by the beast." Harry explained. "Miss Granger, please come to the lectern, Dan you might want to come with her."
Harry told her the amount on the envelope was in her personal vault. She looked and the envelope read: one hundred fifty thousand Galleons. She swayed but maintained her balance and said, "Thanks, we'll talk later."
Harry confided, "The next person is my first friend and still the largest. Fifty years ago, when the Chamber of Secrets was first opened he was blamed for something he didn't do. The one who blamed him was Tom Marvolo Riddle known as Voldemort… Come on people it just a made up name that is French for flight from death. Then a year or so ago our corrupt Minister put this man in Azkaban so Fudge could be seen doing something. Mr. Rebeus Hagrid, please come forward."
"Hagrid the amount on the envelope is what was deposited in your vault. Inside is a prepayment for a customized wand from Ollivander's. That's from the Ministry," Hagrid looked and the envelope said: one hundred twenty thousand galleons. Hagrid wanted to hug Harry but stuck his right hand out instead so Harry hugged the big man.
"To speed thing up the following students were in the wrong place at the wrong time and were petrified by the basilisk. Miss Penelope Clearwater, Mr. Colin Creevey, and Mr. Justin Finch-Fletchley please come forward accompanied by your fathers or head of house." Harry called out.
Harry handed the three student their envelopes, and the fathers theirs and told them, "The amount on the envelope has been placed in your personal vault Penny, Colin, and Justin. If you're not an adult the limitations of what you can do with it is in the envelope. Misters Clearwater, Creevey, and Finch-Fletchley the amount on the envelope has been placed in your vault for pain and suffering that your family suffered."
They thanked Harry and sat back down.
"Would Mr. Arthur Weasleys and Mr. Daniel Granger please come forward?" Harry asked.
Harry handed them envelopes and told them it was for the family's pain and suffering. They both thanked him.
Harry announced, "As I said earlier Mr. Filch's familiar was the first to be petrified. It's hard to quantify pain and suffering for a family member let alone a familiar. So Mr. Filch I had to go by what I would feel like if it were Hedwig in Mrs. Norris' place. Please come forward Mr. Argus Filch."
"The amount on the envelope is what was deposited in your vault. In the envelope is a certificate for a custom wand from Ollivander." Harry told the shocked man.
Argus Filch stuck out his hand and thanked Harry.
"Mr. Ronald Weasley please step forward," Harry said in a flat tone.
Harry almost laughed when he saw his betrothed's eye come full open. Ron almost ran to the front he was going to be rewarded.
"Here's what you're worth, now stay the hell away from me and my betrothed or the Houses of Potter, Gryffindor, and Slytherin will descend on you like the hounds of hell." Harry stated in a low voice but Ron and people in the back could feel the magic rolling off of Harry.
Ron looked at the envelope and it read: THE THIRTY PIECES OF SILVER A TRAITOR DESERVES. Ron was happy with thirty bars of silver but wouldn't be with the thirty Sickles in the envelope. Ron stuck his hand out and Harry looked at it and turned to Luna.
"Luna did I speak English when I told him to stay the hell away from us?" Harry asked.
"Yes, Harry it was clear to me and Daphne maybe his mummy forgot to wash out his ears." Luna replied stifling a giggle.
Harry turned back to the audience and said, "The money can't bring back the time you lost while petrified or worrying about family or friend. I hope that it will make your life a bit easier in the future. For those who can afford to save or invest some I recommend investing through Gringotts. For the parents of those who are under age there are strict guidelines concerning what can be done with what they received until they reach adulthood."
Harry paused and added, "I'll kick myself later for suggesting this but Mr. Creevey, Colin is an outstanding photographer so I suggest investing in a pensive and a camera to take pictures of memories. Colin with that setup I'll bet you could get some great Quidditch shots at Hogwarts and sell them to the Daily Prophet. However, be sure to get permission first. This concludes the meeting thank you for your time."
Chapter 6: Summer's End
Potter Manor
They were back at Potter Manor, and Harry had his head in Hermione's lap groaning. "I thought that would never get over. I swear I'm going to have to kill Hagrid before he does me in. That man can't give a light hug, he has to bruise ribs."
Hermione gave her opinion, "Actually I thought it went well. I'm glad to see Ginny is getting better. She seemed sincere when she congratulated us."
Luna giggled, "I think the best part was when Bill explained to Ron that the thirty pieces of silver were sickles, and what it meant. I also liked when Bill told Ron, and I quote, 'I told you Harry would give you what you deserved, and he did.'"
Daphne interjected, "I overheard Arthur ask Hawkclaw to put the money in a separate vault that only he, or Bill could access it. All Molly Weasley could do was glare at us."
"Hermione what's on the schedule for tomorrow?" Harry asked the organized one.
"I'm not sure, someone penciled in rings," Hermione replied.
"Ok, I can move that up to now, is there anything else on the schedule or do we really have a free day?" Harry queried his number one.
"We have a day with nothing scheduled," Hermione corrected.
"Good let's go to the Ministry and bug Ludo Bagman just for fun." Harry said with a huge smile.
"Take care of the ring thing first, and we'll have the rest of the day clear," grumbled Hermione.
"Alright, alright, right after I go to the loo," Harry mumbled giving her a look.
In the Master Suite, Harry put the engagement rings that matched the betrothal rings in separate ring boxes. Hermione's had the Potter crest, Luna's the Gryffindor, and Daphne's the Slytherin crest. He put them in his pocket and went back to the family room.
"Ok ladies the Head of House has something to say so couch now please," Harry announced.
Once Hermione, Luna, and Daphne were sitting on the couch Harry turned on his serious look. Then he went down on his knees and asked, "Hermione Jane Granger-Hufflepuff will you marry me and become Duchess Potter-Black-Gryffindor-Hufflepuff?"
"Oh hell yes," Hermione cried and hugged him. When she sat back, he slipped her engagement ring on her finger, and they watched as it seemed to absorb the betrothal ring.
He moved to Luna, "Luna Marie Lovegood-Ravenclaw will you marry me and become Duchess Potter-Black-Gryffindor-Ravenclaw?"
"Of course love, I thought you forgot," Luna replied and hugged then kissed him. Harry slipped her engagement ring on her finger, and it absorbed the betrothal ring.
Harry moved to Daphne, "Daphne Sophia Greengrass will you marry me and become Countess Black-Potter-Gryffindor-Slytherin?"
"Most definitely yes," Daphne replied and followed Luna's action. He watched as her betrothal ring was absorbed by the engagement ring he slipped on her finger.
Harry stood and got serious while explaining, "Ok, that was personal stuff now to the Head of House stuff. Those rings allow you to use the portal and provide limited access to the Potter part of the library. Your access includes the first three of the seven rows. Books cannot be removed, or copied in anyway. Unfortunately, the grimoire is still off limits, but it's on the last row, and you can't get to it until we're married. I'm sure Luna and Daphne will tell you Hermione that you cannot discuss anything you read from those books with anyone not a Potter."
Harry paused then sat in the lotus position in front of his ladies. "I'll check with Sirius on the status of the Black library access for you three. I know for a fact, there is some dark shit in that library. But you three are battle mages, and we're actually two years older than what the charm says so we should be able to handle it. The Art of War says to know thy enemy and know thy self, so we need to become aware of what we may be coming up against. The restricted section at Hogwarts will be open to us as will the Room of Requirements."
Luna interrupted him, "Harry love, Rowena says we can lock everyone else out of that room and stop them from using it. However, the elves will still have access to the storage area."
"Thanks sweetie," Harry said and kissed her tenderly. "I passworded the Chamber of Secrets but we need to go through it. Sal says that his library is in there as is his personal vault. He assures me Tom never even got close to it. Tonight your engagement rings will add power to your cores and provide you with much of the history of both the Potter and Black families. You three are Mistresses of both houses now in almost every way. I'll let Daphne and Luna fill you in on what that entails because I don't have a clue and neither does Sirius."
Harry paused while thinking if he missed anything. His fiancées thought it cute when he scratched his head messing up his hair even more than normal. "Ah, now don't get pissed but I'll be in the Triwizard Tournament as the fourth champion. I'll choose to represent NAMA rather than Hogwarts so it doesn't steal the glory from whoever is chosen for Hogwarts. I'll answer any question I can assuming you have some."
Hermione jumped in which was expected, "Why do this now, not that I don't like it. I'm just curious."
Harry laughed, "Well I've been planning on how to do it before school. I went through a quiet dinner in a room at a restaurant, to doing it in front of family and friends. But I wanted it private between the three of us and wanted to do it together because we are one. Does that make sense?"
Hermione's answer was to jump on him and snog him senseless. Luna levitated Hermione off Harry and took her place. Daphne waited a bit and did the same to Luna. When Daphne came up for air, Harry had a goofy grin on his face.
Luna giggle, "I think we broke him ladies."
"No Luna that will happen tonight. Boyfriends have certain privileges. Betrothed have more privilege and fiancées even more. Husbands get to make love to us. I think a 2 August 1995 wedding next year would be just right. I don't believe in a long engagement. We can't do it on Luna's birthday because she deserves a birthday present and an anniversary present just like the rest of us." Daphne reasoned, and Harry gulped.
James said, "Just agree with her son. A 'Yes dear' right now would be best for you."
Lily added, "Listen to your father Harry it took him ages to figure that out."
Harry gave Daphne a lopsided grin and the puppy-dog eyes while saying, "Yes dear, whatever you want."
Daphne giggled and said, "Look ladies, he learns quickly, and he is already potty trained. We shouldn't have to do a lot with him to polish him up. Of course if he let his hair grow it wouldn't be so messy."
"I'll have you know I haven't had a hair cut in years my dear," Harry confided.
"What?" Five voices asked.
Harry asserted, "Petunia Dursley cut my hair off, except for bangs, when I was not quite six. She did everything but shave it. And the next morning it looked like it hadn't been cut and has been like this ever since."
James said, "Damn, he's at least a partial Metamorphmagus. He probably got that from Mum since that's a Black trait. Harry, at least contact Nymphadora Tonks, as she's a full Metamorph. Sirius will know how to contact her since she's one of his cousins."
"I've heard of her. She's an Auror," Harry replied.
Ministry of Magic
After their run and martial arts workout, they showered together. This was a fiancé privilege according to Daph, and no one was going to argue the point. They went to the Ministry. Their first stop was the DMLE to see if Tonks was in. The secretary called Tonks to the front.
"Auror Tonks, I'm Harry Potter…" Harry started.
"No shit I would have never guessed. It's not like I haven't seen your picture in paper for the last few months. Besides I did let you slobber all over me when you were two months old, cousin. And it's Tonks cousin, just Tonks. Call me by my first name and I may have to kill you." Tonks rattled on like she had known him all her life while her hair cycled through the colors of the rainbow.
Harry smiled sweetly and chided, "Ah yes you are Nymmie. I remember now. You're the one Padfoot held down and licked her face until she peed her knickers. Hello cousin, I've a question about Metamorphs. I haven't had a haircut since I was about six and my mother's sister cut it all off. The next morning it was like it is now. Mum and Dad thought I should talk to you. I guess it's a good thing I didn't listen to Sirius and call you Nymphadora isn't it Nymmie?"
Tonks reached for her wand, and Harry held it up whispering, "Not nice Dora you really don't want to take on a battle mage and get all embarrassed. I took down five of the USA's best Aurors in less than a minute for my Mastery. And Dora I'm the son of Prongs and adopted son and godson of Padfoot and can prank with the best."
She looked at the three witches with Harry, and they all nodded indicating what he said was true.
"Well damn, now what cousin?" Tonks asked.
Harry handed her the wand and asked, "Is it possible I'm a partial morph?"
Tonks thought for a few seconds and replied. "I think you more than likely are based on what you said you should be able to control protein-based body parts. Things like nails, hair, and eye color. With some training, you might be able to alter your cheekbones and chin or nose. It takes work though a lot of work."
Harry smiled and told her, "I can do work with no sweat. Are there any good books on the subject? Dad's portrait thinks I get it from Grandmother Dorea Black."
Tonks hesitated obviously thinking before answering, "I'll have to look through my old notes about the books. There were some in the Black library, and there are few others I've run across. If we weren't up to our ass in alligators here I'd offer to coach you."
Harry hugged her and showed her his floo address, "If you get time off come visit the Manor. If you want to swim, the pool area stays at 82 degrees or so. It just dawned on me that you were a Seventh year Puff when I started school. Sure would have been nice to know I had family then."
Dora teared up and confessed, "Well Pee Bear, it seems Dumbledore was free and easy with compulsion charms that prevented that. Now I'll accept Dora from you, but if you call me Nymmie or my first name again you'll be Pee Bear from now on."
Harry laughed and said, "Deal. Now let me introduce my fiancées before I get both of us killed."
Harry introduced them and Dora said while parting, "Girls I'll tell you some stories about that little shit when he was a baby. I don't know what happened to him. He was so cute then."
Harry laughed saying, "No problem Dora, I'll ask Dad about some of the things you did. Of course, I could always ask Uncle Ted and Aunt Andi. We're going to go drive Bagman nuts about the Triwizard Tournament. Come see us Dora."
"Harry is it me or it Tonks a bit different?" Hermione asked out of curiosity.
"I think she showed her defensive side by going on the attack right away. I'm sure she's put up with a lot of shit through the years being asked to change into something you aren't, must be pretty grating. Imagine if you were a morph, and I asked you to change into Princess Dianna when I picked you up." Harry answered after thinking about it.
"I can see that would shoot your confidence in yourself to hell quickly." Hermione agreed as did the others.
They arrived at Bagman's office, and Harry said, "The owners of Hogwarts to see Ludo Bagman immediately."
The secretary huffed, "Mr. Bagman is busy, and you don't have an appointment."
Harry let some magic flare and icily stated, "Missy when you address me, it had better be as Your Grace the first time we speak for the day. After that you may, at my leave, call me My Lord or sir. Now you tell Ludo the Duke of Gryffindor said to get his fat ass out here to escort me and my ladies into his office, or I'll be taking to his replacement."
"As you wish… Your Grace," she said and knocked on Bagman's door.
"Damn it, I said I wasn't to be disturbed,"
"The Duke of Gryffindor said to tell you to get your fat ass out here and escort him and his ladies into your office, or he would talk to your replacement. You didn't hire me to put up with this shit and I'm headed back to the secretarial pool since I don't work for you." The witch yelled and stalked off mumbling, "I hope the Duke fires his lazy ass."
Ludo poked his head out of the office and said, "Well come on in."
Harry was now pissed, "Bagman what part of what that secretary said did you not understand? Did you take to many bludgers to the head or did you never get trained on proper protocol? For some reason, I thought you were a pureblood wizard. From this point on you may call me Your Grace and my ladies just that My Lady."
Harry, Hermione, Luna, and Daphne stood there waiting, and Bagman stood in office looking like an idiot.
Finally, Harry said in a cold voice, "Screw you Bagman, I'll deal with the Minister. As far as I'm concerned, the Triwizard Tournament just got canceled. You can't seem to get it through your thick head that the Ministry does not control Hogwarts. We do. I wanted to talk budget with you, but you've wasted enough of my time, good day."
Harry turned and started toward the elevators when he heard, "Just a minute Harry."
They kept walking ignoring Bagman calling Harry. Harry felt a hand on his shoulder and reacted by throwing Bagman over his body onto his back. Bagman looked down his nose at the wand pointed at the tip of it and then up at the three wands pointed at his head.
Harry heard Hermione say in a cold voice, "One of you dumb asses get an Auror over here before there's a killing."
Tonks, Shacklebolt, and Bones arrived at about the same time. Amelia asked, "Your Grace what's going on?"
Harry's tone of voice was icy when he answered. "This dumb ass just laid his hands on the Duke of Gryffindor, and he will be offered the choice of dueling me or 25 years in Azkaban but either way I claim 75 percent of his assets and zero of his debt."
Amelia said, "Ludo Bagman, the Duke of Gryffindor just offered you a choice which option do you choose? Will you duel him or go to Azkaban? My advice is for you to choose Azkaban if you want to live."
"I'll kill the little shit then take his ladies as mine," Bagman said.
Hermione yelled, "I have a thousand galleons that say my fiancé takes this trash out in less than thirty seconds. Minimum bet is ten galleons."
Luna stated, "I've got another thousand that say our fiancé takes it out in less than twenty seconds. Minimum bet is fifty galleons."
Daphne said, "I have more faith in our fiancé and say he does it in less than fifteen seconds. The bet is one thousand with one hundred as a minimum I'll accept. Auror Tonks will you hold the money?"
Tonks looked at Bones who nodded, "Yes and I'll take ten Hermione."
Hermione conjured a parchment, quill, and clipboard. She made three lists with names and amounts for her, Luna, and Daphne. Diggory took 300 of Daphne's bet. The Ministry went into lock down and everyone move into Courtroom 10. Bagman was full of bluster and making stupid comments trying to egg Harry on when all he was doing was pissing him off.
Minister Diggory officiated. Harry asked, "Since this is an official duel to the death all curses, including unforgivables are legal right?"
Amos sighed and agreed, "Unfortunately, yes Your Grace."
Harry smiled and said, "Just checking. You can start your count at your pleasure Minister."
Diggory counted down and at one, Bagman threw up a shield, when Diggory said go Harry sent a parsel Reducto through the shield and Bagman's chest. The charm was about one inch in diameter and blew through the shield, Bagman's chest, and put a six inch deep hole in the back wall.
Daphne said, "Pay up I counted four seconds for Lord Potter to take out the braggart whose magic couldn't cover his mouth. That so called pureblood wizard didn't even know the proper form to speak to a Duke and refused when he was told how he should address the Duke of Gryffindor. I would hope everyone in here knows the penalty for laying their hands on the head of a Most Ancient Noble House or any member of his family. Check out the laws you live under and incidents like this need not happen again."
Harry stopped Daphne's rant, "Minister, I came here to talk about the Triwizard Tournament budget and so far have wasted over an hour and still have no one to talk to about it. As I told Bagman over a month ago, the tournament is in danger of being canceled. Now, I will only work with this Ministry through The Earl of Black, Chief Witch Longbottom, Lady Bones, or Lord Greengrass. I will have what Hogwarts is expected to pay for by item on my desk by 1400h or the tournament will not be held at Hogwarts, and no student will be allowed to participate representing our school. Come ladies lets go home."
Hermione stated, "This list will go to Gringotts for collection. They do that for Goblin Friends."
The ladies placed their hands on his shoulder, and the four disappeared.
Amelia rounded on the others, "We are one step closer to being ruled by Her Majesty or her representative. I warned Bagman he was dealing with a peer of the realm, and he ignored my warning. That young man is Her Majesty's third cousin and as far as she is concerned, he might as well be her grandson. Amos this needs fixed within the hour. Kingsley, Tonks, please take out this trash." Amelia said and pointed at Bagman's body.
"Who do you think would make a good replacement for Ludo, Amy?" Diggory asked.
Without hesitation, she replied, "David Greengrass, he has a reputation for being honest and his daughter is betrothed to Lord Potter."
"Good idea, he speaks several languages thanks Amelia," The Minister concurred.
00-00-00
Harry, Hermione, Luna, and Daphne appeared in the Great Hall at Hogwarts and faced at least three wands.
McGonagall said, "Hold! These are the owners. You're a bit early Your Grace."
"Sorry about that but I had to get rid of some trash at the Ministry. It took less time than I thought," replied Harry.
Luna giggled, "Yes, love it took you all of four seconds."
Minerva shook her head and asked, "Dare I ask what you've done this time Harry?"
Harry tone went flat as he answered, "Bagman laid his hands on me and paid the ultimate price. The pureblood bigots put those laws in place to trap first generation witches and wizards but don't seem to like it when I use their laws against them. We came to look at our quarters and ask if you need anything Minerva."
"I need to know what Hogwarts is expected to pay for during this damn tournament," McGonagall complained.
Harry laughed, "Funny thing that. It's the reason we went to see Bagman. That man thought he was a lot more important than he was. As far as we're concerned, I think providing food is enough since it's what the hosting schools have done in the past. The Ministry got us into this mess, so they can foot the bill for it. We have threatened to cancel the damn thing, so we'll get our way on that point."
RING, RING
"Pardon me," Harry said and opened his phone. "Lord Potter here… David… We're at the school now… we'll see you at the manor for lunch bring Sophie and Astoria… good-bye."
Minerva and the others showed their questions on their faces. "It's a cell phone and provides instant communications with another person anywhere in the world. David Greengrass is the new head of the Department of Magical Games and Sports and will bring the budget figures at lunch." Harry explained.
"Harry those things are illegal in the United Kingdom," Minerva stated.
"Actually it's only illegal to sell them here, and we got ours in Singapore," Daphne retorted before Hermione could get started on a rant.
Remus came into the Great Hall, and Harry greeted him, "Morning Wolfie."
Remus laughed, "Morning cub. You're raising hell again."
Harry snorted, "Not here. I had a bit of a dust up at the Ministry earlier though."
Remus rolled his eyes, "Who is dead?"
Daphne giggled, "Bagman. It took Harry all of four seconds and one spell. He sent a Reducto through the git's shield, chest, and into a wall."
Remus shuddered, "Damn Harry that had to be messy."
Hermione finally got to say something, "Actually the hole in the wall was only about an inch in diameter. There was no blood so it must have cauterized the wound."
Several voices said, "Damn."
Harry looked at the Deputy Headmaster, "Filius, what is the first thing you're taught by a professional dueler?"
Filius' eyes lit up, "You don't broadcast what you're about to cast. That includes thoughts and wand movements. I always said Bagman took too many bludgers to the head."
Harry nodded and continued, "What's the worst shield to use if you don't know what's being cast?"
A new man entered the conversation, "Pardon me Your Grace. I'm Robert McDonald and will teach the Defense class for the upper years. I suppose this idiot cast Protego. Did he have a second wand?"
Harry laughed, "No, he was going to use Avada Kedavra next. I couldn't take the chance of him hitting a bystander, especially our new Minister. And unless it's a formal thing I prefer Harry or Lord Potter if you must."
"Might I ask where you received training?" Robert asked.
Harry looked at his ladies who nodded, "We did four years at NAMA and came out with a mastery or two."
"You're the one that took out the five best American Aurors. Damn I would have liked to have seen that." Robert exclaimed.
"Show him Harry," Hermione said.
Two wands appeared in Harry's hand, and a Hippogryph and Griffin patronus ran toward the head table as Harry disappeared and appeared behind the head table. Robert felt the tip of a wand at the back of his neck and saw the other one pointed at Filius.
"If anyone wants to, you can pet the patronus they don't mind," Harry joked.
Minerva got up and touched the Griffin then stroked its neck. "Damn it is solid. Amazing but I thought your patronus was a stag."
Harry sniggered, "Funny thing about that Minerva, it depends on the wand I use as well as how I feel. I can still do the stag, but I also get a dragon if I'm angry. Now if you have no further questions, we'll see our new quarters. Then be back for the meet and greet."
Minerva nodded, and the four disappeared.
Septima Vector said, "Minerva, I thought it was impossible to apparate within the Hogwarts wards."
McGonagall shook her head replying, "It is, but they're doing something else that they call shifting or fading. Knowing those four, they might be doing elf popping silently. Just so everyone knows they all have Battle Mage Masteries. We have eleven students coming back that all have their NEWTs and at least two masteries. They'll be associate professors, but their primary function is security."
Hagrid said, "Harry sure has grown up and changed, no thanks to Dumbledore."
Robert chuckled, "I've heard Gringotts is now offering rides to see the dragons and Dumbledore shoveling shit. It costs a galleon and 85 percent goes to St. Mungos and the orphanage. You get to see five or six breeds of Dragons, Dumbledore, the Malfoys, and the Dursleys whoever they are."
Minerva told them, "Robert, the Dursleys were Harry's relatives before he disowned them and threw the out of the family. Harry, Hermione, and Luna want Hogwarts to be number one again and offer mastery level courses. You just saw what might become the magical ruler of the United Kingdom. The house of Windsor's blood runs through his veins, and a strong rumor says Her Majesty is not pleased with us. "
Bathsheba Babbling remarked, "He's still only fourteen."
Remus corrected that, "Actually they're all sixteen and Hermione will be seventeen next month. Four years in time compression aged them two years of outside time. But I agree they're too young to have to shoulder those kinds of responsibilities."
Harry, Hermione, Luna, and Daphne returned and met the new Professors. While Hermione, Luna, and Daphne talked to the others, Harry pulled Hagrid aside.
Harry looked at his first friend, "Hagrid, how would you like to have your mastery by this time next year?"
Without hesitation and a huge smile Hagrid replied, "I'd really like that but don't think it's possible."
Harry sniggered, "Why not we did it? I've got some books, and tutors arranged for you this year. Then next July we'll use Malfoy's money to send you to NAMA for a month. That will be four years in time compression where you'll only age a year out here. The way it works is that you age three months outside for every year inside the time compression wards."
Hagrid had tears in his eyes when he asked, "You'd do that for me?"
"Hagrid you were my first friend and bought me my first ever gift, so hell yes I'll do it. I know this will break your heart, but part of their practical is dragons. I know you don't like them much so you'll just have to suck it up and suffer through that part." Harry explained and laughed at the big man's reaction to the mention of dragons.
Harry was surprised when Hagrid hugged him gently and thanked him profoundly.
Potter Manor
They went back to the Potter Manor and prepared for a working lunch.
The first words out of David's mouth were, "I don't know whether to kiss you or knock you on your ass for killing that git Harry. I agree he had it coming, but Amos stuck me in his old job."
Daphne interrupted, "Suck it up Dad you'll do a good job, and there will be less overtime. Maybe you two can use that time while Astoria and I are in school to give us a brother."
David and Sophie turned red but said nothing.
Harry stopped further comments on that by grumbling, "Could we talk about the tournament budget please."
"There is no budget," David informed them, "There is a note from Dumbledore saying he would take care of it."
Harry sighed, "That's not unexpected. However, Hogwarts will foot the expense for the extra food and nothing else. The Ministry or Wizengamot can foot the expenses for everything else or cancel the tournament. I told Bagman that I would not allow a Death Eater in our school, and Karkaroff is a Death Eater."
David coughed, "Karkaroff is still the Headmaster of Durmstrang, and I've heard nothing about your saying that he couldn't come to Hogwarts."
Hermione said, "You know Harry you might be able to use Karkaroff. You said he ratted out several Death Eaters to escape Azkaban, so he won't be popular with the others or Voldemort."
"That's just one thing I love about you Hermione you're always thinking." Harry replied and kissed her cheek.
When Hermione touched her left cheek Astoria gasped out loud, "That's one hell of an engagement ring Hermione."
The others then had to show their rings and extract a promise to say nothing until it was announced at dinner that night.
"Why Dumbledore wanted this mess to kick off on Halloween is beyond me," Harry mumbled, "But we think the other schools should arrive either on 16 or 23 September. Beauxbatons will come by flying carriage. Durmstrang travels by ship so both schools can still have classes while they travel. That gives them two days to acclimate to the time difference and become familiar with Hogwarts."
Luna said, "We think a Halloween ball is appropriate. Then another ball on New Year's Eve will allow students to spend Christmas with their family. A third ball on Easter Sunday leaves Monday to recover from a late-night and round out the social calendar. Traditionally, the Triwizard Tournament only has a Christmas ball but this tournament hasn't been held in over 350 years, so there is no tradition."
"That sounds good," David agreed, "Letting Karkaroff in gives us leverage with the Ministry and Wizengamot. Oh, before I forget Augusta and Amos struck down the laws about using muggle technology in the United Kingdom claiming they were too vague. Augusta pointed out that everyone who posted mail by owl broke the law."
Hermione laughed, "She sure likes her cell phone she called Neville at least once a week on outside time. Sirius should be ready to open Potter-Black Industries and start selling phones, generators, TVs, and other mundane technology."
Sophie laughed and said, "We will open tomorrow at 1000h to give the Daily Prophet time to announce the Grand Opening with a full-page ad."
Harry shuddered and said, "Hedwig won't like that, she hoots at me when I use my phone now in her presence."
Dinner that evening turned into a rambunctious affair after Harry announced their engagement. Neville got 'the look' from Susan, Hannah, and Tori while Tony got it from Padma and Tracy. Neville and Tony gave Harry dirty looks and Harry just smiled at them.
Harry pulled Sirius aside, "Why haven't you brought the Tonks here?"
Sirius sighed and admitted, "I'm still pissed that Andi thought I was guilty."
Harry gave Sirius a dirty look, "Pull your head out of your ass, and have her checked for charms and memory modification. Dora had compulsion charms to avoid me. We still don't know everything that old bastard did and going over a hundred years of memories isn't fun or quick. I need this as we suspect I'm at least a partial Metamorph because my hair never grows, hell I don't even have to shave."
Sirius agreed.
The Burrow
After seeing Harry put Bagman down Arthur called a full family meeting for dinner that evening except for Ginny, who was in St. Mungo's. Molly was ecstatic as she had all of her babies together. After a good meal, Arthur stood and thanked Molly for the meal.
"Today I was a witness to an execution in the Wizengamot chamber," Arthur started, "It took the form of a sanctioned duel due to the insult on a head of a Most Ancient Noble House. The duel lasted four seconds and only one curse was used. I bring this to your attention because it was Harry the Duke of Gryffindor, who was insulted by Ludo Bagman."
Arthur paused and held his hand up for silence. "Prior to the duel Lady Hufflepuff offered a bet saying Harry would win in thirty seconds and put up one thousand galleons to back those words up. Lady Ravenclaw said twenty seconds and put up a thousand galleons. Lady Greengrass said she had more faith in Harry, and that it would take less than fifteen seconds for Harry to win. She put up another thousand galleons. Some fools jumped on those bets and lost."
Arthur looked around the table before adding, "The duel lasted exactly four seconds. Harry sent a Reducto through Bagman's shield, his chest, and six inches into the back wall. That curse was only one inch in diameter. I know this because I measured the hole in the wall. I checked the records, and Harry is a Battle Mage with a mastery in Battle Magic. I tell you this because I would prefer not to have to bury any of you."
Arthur continued, "I watched as Harry blew through the Ministry wards like they weren't there. Ron you seem to have a jealousy problem with Harry Potter. You will not speak to him unless spoken to, and his includes his betrothed. You will not insult Lady Luna Ravenclaw by calling her loony. Harry has done more for this family than anyone else including the great Albus Dumbledore has. You all have new clothes, books, and wands because of Harry. Ron fucked up by spying on him, and Harry knows that because he stripped it from Dumbledore's mind. He also knows Molly and Dumbledore planned to use love, lust, and other potions on him."
After sipping his Butterbeer Arthur concluded his talk, "What I don't understand Ron, is how you could be jealous of someone who wore rags and was locked in a room with bars on the window. Yes, Harry's rich but that's because his family was killed, I hope the 5₲ per month was worth it. But then you lost that, Bill what was the original figure Ron was to receive from the basilisk?"
Bill didn't hesitate in saying, "Fifty thousand galleons and he ended up with traitor's silver of thirty sickles. I'm sure Harry came close to calling him Judas in public."
Arthur took over from Bill, "We've all read the materials from Hogwarts. It's becoming a school again, and failure is not an option. If you're expelled your magic will be bound, and you'll end up in the muggle world unless you have your five OWLs and four of my children don't have them. Fred, George, enlighten me as to why you only got three owls apiece."
The twins ducked their head and mumbled, "To piss Mum off and hear her rant at us and get her off of Ginny's ass. We've been studying, and we are ready to retake our OWLs Dad. If you noticed we got OWLs in different subjects, and we did that on purpose."
Arthur turned on Molly, "So you've driven Bill, Charlie, and Percy out and almost got the twins thrown out of school, I hope you're happy with your actions because I'm damn sure not. Percy a bit of advice son, David Greengrass will not put up with an ass kisser, he is not Ludo Bagman. Do your job and learn what you can, leave people being late from break or lunch to the manager. David's a good manager and will probably not make changes for a couple of weeks, but he won't hesitate to bring in all new people."
Charlie asked, "Dad, do we still have World Cup tickets?"
"Yes," Arthur replied, "I picked them up yesterday from Ludo. We have a good tent space not far from water and the arena. The other good news is that Ginny should be home on the twenty fifth. Healer Smythe thinks she may be able to test into third or possibly fourth year. Her core settled down and I took her for a new wand. Ollivander says she is as powerful as most sixteen year olds, and she passed the Statute of Secrecy test. I've had my say does anyone have anything to bring up."
Bill said, "Hawkclaw says that if you leave the ₲125,000 alone it will earn ₲13,000 per year. If you reduce that to ₲100,000 and leave it alone in five years, you'll have over ₲180,000 and in ten years that will grow to ₲330,000. Because of Harry, you're getting Goblin Friend rates that are two percent higher than the regular rate. That means Dad you could retire in five years, and you and Mum could travel if you don't go wild now."
Bill paused to see that he had everyone's attention, "A previous model broom cost less than one fourth of the current model and a rebuilt one even less. I have a rebuilt Nimbus 2000 and it outperforms the original at 20 percent of cost of a 2001. The professional Beaters and Keepers are bitching about the Firebolts not suiting their positions but the teams signed a contract for all positions, and they're stuck with that."
Charlie seeing that Bill was finished speaking, "I may be at Hogwarts either in October or November as part of my job. The dates are yet to be confirmed. Our boss says the castle now gleams and is cleaner than he has ever seen it. Minerva has added several courses and hired several people. Binns is gone so History is no longer nap time as he drones on about goblin wars."
Arthur added, "There will be fewer students as some of the pureblood bigots have pulled their children out of Hogwarts after they read the new policy. The fact that Hogwarts is teaching to ICW standards caused a lot of that. I'm sure you have read, at least you better have, about the standards of conduct, bullying, and pranking my advice is to stop it. Weasley family meeting adjourned."
Bill pulled Arthur aside, "Dad, Hawkclaw says if you put ₲5,000 in a separate vault for Gin-Gin to spend while she's in school when she graduates she'll have over a half million. If you made it one thousand instead of five, she would have even more. Unfortunately, I don't see a bright future for Ron. He bragged how it was him that defeated the basilisk while Harry did nothing. Well, the memory shows that was pure dragon shit. Harry and Hermione were his only friends, and he's lost them.
Bill drew in a breath, "I don't have any answers as how to cure stupidity and greed. However, we've both seen how cruel teenagers can be especially to a liar and a braggart. I'm concerned his mouth may write a bank draft his magic can't cash, and he'll end up hurt or worse. If he mouths off about Hermione, Luna, and Daphne, he will find hell speeding toward him in the form of Harry James Potter. When Sharpaxe says he wouldn't want to fight Harry Potter what chance would Ron have?"
Arthur sighed, "We've heard rumors that Hogwarts speaks to Harry, Hermione, and Luna through the founders' rings."
Bill interrupted, "Dad that is a fact, which makes it more important that Ron keeps his mouth shut about those ladies. Harry doesn't know it but Ragnok, Hawkclaw, Sharpaxe, and I watched Harry take his Defense NEWT and earn a Defense and Battle Magic Masteries. He took out the five top Aurors from the USA in about thirty seconds. He cast two patronus charms that took out three then shifted behind the other two and two stunners later it was over. The patronus charms, a Hippogryph and a Griffin had to be dispelled by Harry because they had the three Aurors pushed against a wall. Dad those things were solid enough to do that."
After a pause, Bill continued, "Harry still took the Battle Magic classes through mastery level and set scoring records. He set a set of wards for his Wards Mastery that still hasn't been broken. My team got bounced out three times before we gave up, and we're the best in Gringotts. The Wards Master plans to use them as an example of what can be accomplished with charms alone, no runes were used."
Arthur didn't want to embarrass his eldest, but he had to ask, "How did he do against your wards since I'm sure that's why you were there?"
Bill laughed, "He didn't even slow down. He took one look, then changed wands and walked into the building as if he was keyed in. Ragnok simply stated 'that is what is expected of a Grand Mage'. When we got back home, Ragnok put the word out that Harry was to be treated the same as Sharpaxe or Hawkclaw by the Goblin Nation. Their law won't let them name him a warrior or guard commander but it doesn't say they can't treat him like one."
Arthur sighed, "Do I need to worry about the twins?"
Bill replied in a calm but serious voice, "I don't think so if they don't prank or insult one of his ladies. But then anyone who screws with the head of a Most Ancient Noble House, or someone who killed a 70-foot basilisk deserves what they get."
To Be Continued