Beta's: 5/8/2015
Solo on this one. Did the best I could.
Chapter 14, Hoodwinked
Roland sat at the table drinking a cup of coffee. The local paper sat crumpled on the table in front of him while a Daily Prophet was folded in one hand so he could read it. He didn't know it until early this morning that William was from the UK. Roland was surprised he still took their paper to keep up with current events. International prints usually cost a lot more but hey, it was his money. Roland took the cigarette out of his mouth to ash it into a Coke can still sitting on the table from the previous night before taking a long thoughtful drag.
Their still obsessed with that fight in the Ministry. Not surprised really with the prophecy and all. Seems they caught wind of his running away… Looks like Dumbledore has his own press people explaining it away as a vacation abroad. No mention of the love potion induced kidnapping Hermione was supposed to have masterminded. Hmmmm, lots of attacks on their mundane population with a mix of assassinations against some of their government people. Roland snorted. A massive public call for Dumbledore to bring Harry back so he can deal with Voldemort… Nothing whatsoever on what the government was doing to curb the terrorist… What the fuck… Sheep. They were all sheep. Was there no one with a god damn backbone on that island?
Sighing in disgust he looked at his watch to check the time. They'd been in there for almost a full day now. That's what… three, four years? Roland took a sip from his coffee cup. Normally when Raze trained an apprentice they left after twelve hours or so. Wyarding was something Raze said had to be discovered by one's own self after you learned the basics. He himself spent almost a decade in there exploring and learning the art. Hell, his first daughter Morgan was born in there while Melissa and he were exploring and helping Raze set up a few farms. Try explaining to family why your two oldest kids were so close in age yet born a few years apart. Roland smiled. Good times. Boy was Rick surprised when they picked him up from his Grandmother's house with a sister nearly his own age.
The sound of the cabinet opening up brought him out of his own personal musings to witness two figures stumble out. Both wore a clearly confused look on their faces while they looked around the small room. He couldn't help but smile at how they were dressed. Raze didn't believe in importing modern clothing into the cabinet so style of dress was something from thirteenth century. Despite having spent almost four years inside they didn't look like they aged that much. Raze must have really tweaked the scheme for the cabinet. Roland nodded approvingly to himself at what their body language was telling him.
"Bloody Hell, what now? I didn't say anything when he had us running around doing all those stupid quest things but what's the purpose of this?" asked the dark haired teen.
Roland smiled at seeing the two of them again. They both stood tall and were assessing the situation carefully. Their body language told him they were cautious while at the same time ready to deal with anything. Hermione was staring at him while replying to Harry. "Language Harry. I don't know but I would swear that looks like Roland sitting in front of us."
Harry's wand was already in his hand and pointed at him while he looked around. "That's what Raze wants us to think. Then he pops up somewhere and starts throwing fireballs at us or those damn wild magic spheres. Remember what he did to us when we were escorting that caravan of wheat to Coranx? We saw Roland then too."
Roland asked. "Raze still making his apprentices do the classics?"
Harry frowned at him. Roland was pleased to see his arm was rock steady and his eyes never stopped moving about checking and rechecking everything taking nothing for granted. You're a long way from the half dead kid you were a couple of days ago.
"Classics?"
"Yeah, escort the caravan, save the princess, protect the town from the monster, you know, standard fantasy classics. Raze always loved the classics. Claimed it really brought out the Spirit of Adventure in a person."
Hermione placed her hand on Harry's arm forcing him to lower it. And you have changed as well. A lot more self-confidant than the blushing fidgeting teen of yesterday. Dumbledore and Voldemort have quite the surprise coming to them. "I don't think this is one of Raze's tests Harry. I think we're back in Arx Tutela."
Still smiling Roland held up his cup, "Coffee?
A couple of hours later after they tossed their backpacks down and shared a few pots of coffee Roland was still smiling after listening to their adventures. Raze certainly didn't spare them the lash but it sounded like they learned a lot. "I take it then you both have a pretty solid grasp for Wyarding then?"
Both teens nodded but it was Hermione that answered. "It truly is a fascinating branch of magic. Even more impressive is that he is the sole author of it. I am not entirely convinced of his ideas on Wild Magic being superior to more tried and true methods but Wyarding is truly groundbreaking."
Harry smiled at her comment. Roland knew enough about the brunette before him to understand very well her views on Wild Magic. They matched his own but there was no convincing Raze. By her tone he imagined many were the arguments between them over its effectiveness.
"Personally I like Wild Magic. Granted it's got its moments where it's a massive pain in the bum but you can't deny its effectiveness most of the time."
It sounded like a well-worn conversation between them. More so because Hermione didn't seem inclined to argue with him. "Where do you plan to go from here? Bob can get you guys a Portkey to just about anywhere."
"Haven't really thought that far ahead. Peru love? I know you were interested in the Incan ruins. Or we could hit Mexico and see some of the Aztec stuff before going further?" Harry asked.
Roland picked up a pack that was resting next to his chair while Harry was talking to Hermione. Inside was something he hadn't the time to give to them but was something that belonged to them. "Well, before you decide you might want to have a look at this."
Hermione gave a startled gasp as Roland placed a very odd book on the table. What made the book so odd was that it was bound in deer hide with a mix of paper, papyrus, and hide pages. Next to it he placed a rune inscribed human skull. Finally a bone dagger adorned in black and brown feathers. Both teens noticed the bone appeared to be stained in blood. "Jim said these were his fathers. He spent his life amassing this knowledge to help Raven so it was only fitting that Raven should take it with him so it can continue to help him."
"Goodness… he's dead?" Hermione whispered.
Roland nodded solemnly. "Jim said his father was very old and due to pass on at any time. I am sorry but he passed not long after he healed you Harry. He wanted you to have these things.
The skull is some kind of translator or something and should help you with reading the book or talking to people who cannot speak English. Should prove useful if you head into the Andean Mountains. The Incan people weren't literate preferring to pass their knowledge down verbally instead. Jim said that dagger there was a very powerful spirit weapon but wouldn't say more. He specifically asked you carry it on you at all times Harry."
"The Shaman used the skull to talk to me… and that is the book the he used to heal you Harry…" Hermione whispered as she took it in. Her eyes only a moment away from spilling the tears that had gathered there at the news they just received. "It's full of all kinds of healing and defensive magic from all over the world."
"Wow…" Harry sincerely said. He felt cheated that he never had the opportunity to meet the man who saved his life. With great reverence and with Roland's help he tied the bone dagger to his upper arm before pulling his sleeve down to cover it. "Thank you. You know, for everything Roland. We owe you a lot." Harry said.
Roland shook his head as he retook his seat. "Whatever for? I didn't do anything special."
Hermione spent the last few moments getting herself together and snorted at Roland's question. "Yeah right. All you did was take in two complete strangers, take care of them and protect them while they were unconscious and defenseless. You've treated us like family, better than when you consider some things that have happened to us in the last few months. We can only imagine what bringing us to your place in the woods or even here has done to disrupt your personal life, or Ben's, but we are very appreciative of it."
Harry nodded his support of her words. Roland simply shrugged. "Whatever you decide to do keep in mind you both have prices on your heads. I'd lay low for a bit. Maybe even disguise yourselves' some."
At their surprised look Roland smiled. "Yeah I know who you two are and your secrets are safe with me. However you should know that you are being followed. I don't know when he will track you guys here but it wouldn't surprise me if he's already found my place in the sticks. Any half decent tracker won't have much trouble finding out about my connections to Jim's people. Don't know if you know of him but Jim said he's an older guy. Pretty messed up looking. Said he looked like he'd been in more than a few battles in his day."
"Professor Moody." They chorused.
Roland shrugged again while Harry leaned back in his chair with a thoughtful look on his face. Thoughtful turned into a knowing smirk before he asked, "How soon can you get us a Portkey?"
Roland stood up putting out his cigarette by dropping it into the Coke can while letting out a massive cloud of smoke. "Right now. Then we can get your saddlebag from the truck." He smirked at the teens as he straightened. "Tunics, braies, and gowns like yours are fine dress for a Renaissance fair but out here in the real world you'll stand out like an honest man in the White House."
XxXDaRXxX
Her niece asked her once if she enjoyed her job. She told her there were good days and bad days no matter the occupation and depending on which she was going through at the time she would get different answers. The day she presided over Lucius Malfoy's trial was definitely a day she would have told her niece yes, she truly enjoyed her job. The usually stern woman smiled more during his trial than she was attributed to having done in the last six months. It was always rewarding when the bad guys were actually punished for the evil they did.
However then there were days such as she had during most of all last year. Due to a corrupt cowardly Minister they lost a year of preparations for this war. Worse they persecuted the only voices of reason, Albus Dumbledore and Harry Potter. During all those months of slander she was powerless to do anything other than prevent Fudge from using her Aurors as his own personal army. He completely crippled her ability to do her job. It was only very grudgingly, and because the Wizengamot voted for the warrant, did she allow Fudge's attempted arrest of Dumbledore. Even then she made the assignment volunteer. She came the closest she ever had to resigning during that time. It was only the thought of her people being defenseless to Fudge's manipulations she didn't.
Three soft pops announced the arrival of one witch and two wizards to a dark grungy alley. With her leading they exited the alley before turning to a door no one but the three of them could see on the busy muggle street. At this particular moment Amelia Bones was having neither a good day nor a bad day. No, today she was having a weird day.
The middle-aged woman walked with a grace and single minded determination that was at odds with her mind. Through the doors to the Leaky Cauldron she moved to the back where rested the only entrance to Diagon Ally, and her destination, Gringotts. It had been a long time since she personally responded to a disturbance scene but when the Goblins ask for you specifically, even the head of the Magical Law Enforcement and frontrunner hopeful to be the next seated Minister of Magic would find themselves obliged to answer the summons. She taped the bricks briskly when she arrived to the back by habit not paying attention to anything except for her thoughts. Amelia never noticed the patrons of the Cauldron, Tom the owner, nor the smells of the rich foods and ale that seemed to cling to the old tavern the way a drowning man clung to a bit of flotsam.
The stern head of Magical Law Enforcement tapped her foot impatiently while the bricks peeled themselves away revealing the ally hidden in front of them. Her tapping foot the only outward sign to her inner turmoil she would allow to show. She was so focused on her thoughts she didn't even pay attention to the two off duty Aurors who had decided to play bodyguard during her foray. A courtesy which her department had extended to her since the attack on her home earlier this summer. She was touched by their concern but she was more than able to take care of herself. Not that they would listen to her.
She could count on one hand how often the Goblins have allowed the Ministry to interfere in any dealings that took place behind the great doors of the bank and could recall only two times since the last rebellion they had ever asked for Ministry intervention. To her knowledge they had never asked for anyone specific before. To say she was surprised they had requested her, of all people, would have been an understatement of massive proportions.
Madam Bones set off through the open portal as soon as it was wide enough to permit passage barely missing someone's tabby feline familiar which sported a curious collar with a rain barrel dangling from its throat. Her eyes missed nothing but immediately dismissed anything non relevant to her current objectives. Vendors called out their wares to hopeful patrons, displays shown with the latest in that store's merchandise, owls flying to and fro, frogs jumping about in the gutter were all ignored.
Amelia nodded to the people who greeted her but spared no time for anything more. Ever since she had thrown her hat into the political ring to be the next Minister she seemed to have overnight become someone important and everyone wanted to talk to her, shake her hand or swarm up to her in hopes she would remember them if she won. Of course having survived a full out assault by He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named's Death Eaters headed by You-Know-Who himself didn't hurt her standing either. Heroes of any kind were in short supply during these dark times and the people counted her as one amongst a very short list who could boast of surviving a direct attack by the self-styled Dark Lord. So far such a list consisted of Dumbledore, Harry Potter, and her. It didn't matter that she didn't do anything worthy of the attention or praise other than survive nor that the enemy had retreated long before she could force them to. Where the Dark Lord was concerned, survival was something not many could boost of. That she had gave the people hope.
None the less she spared them only just enough attention to not feel jilted while she made her way through the sparse crowd. She didn't have much information on what she was walking into except something had happened during the will reading of the recently exonerated Sirius Black and it required her, of all people, to appear and resolve the issue. The missive she received stated only she was to bring everything relevant to handle this issue. Considering the Black family and the fact Harry Potter was Sirius Black's Godson, she could be walking into just about anything. Nothing, she found, was simple where it concerned Harry Potter.
A snicker from one of her self-appointed bodyguards brought her back to reality for the moment. Following his gaze she laid eyes on a building the likes of which she had never seen in Diagon Ally. It was a couple of stories tall painted in eye catching colors proudly proclaiming itself to be Weasley's Wizard Wheezes. What had to have grabbed his attention must have been the modified Ministry Poster that papered one of the windows.
'Why are you worrying about You-Know Who? You should be worrying about U-No-Poo - the Constipation Sensation that's gripping the nation!' Advertisements for a variety of other joke items were plastered all over the wall alongside that one. Madam Bones turned from the spectacle before them to continue moving to Gringotts. Not so much as a twitch of her lips marred her stern image. She didn't have to be a Legilimens to know that most people thought she didn't have a sense of humor. Her close friends knew differently but one did not rise to become Head of the Magical Law Enforcement branch of the Ministry by making friends. No, they worked for it. Even though her House was well respected she was still a woman in a man's field. She had to be better than everyone else to get to where she was without having to be on her knees or lie on her back to get it.
It was strange days like these she often wondered if she should have just been a robe designer like she wanted to when she was young. Her brother had often tried to push her in that direction but after her husband Williams's death, then Edgar her brother died that ended that dream. His wife Lucy and then her parents followed not long after. Well, there wasn't much choice in her opinion after all that. When she first joined the Aurors one of the old-timers named her Joan of Arc after a few raids she was a part of. A fitting title for her considering the dedication she brought to her job. He might have meant it jokingly but it was her crusade to be the best to not only make the Death Eaters pay for what they had done but to ensure Susan's future as the last of House Bones. She knew if she survived and worked hard she could one day make meaningful changes to their society to prevent things like this stupid war from happening ever again. However, she couldn't do much more from where she was at currently. She tried. Now it was time to move forward and effect changes at the top. If Fudge could make so many changes that could hurt their world then being Minister was where she would find the ability to finally do the things she had always wanted to do to help. She assumed that was the main reason why she was targeted in the first place.
Before she realized it she found herself climbing the grand stairs to the bank. As she often did in the quiet of her mind she shoved these thoughts to the side to concentrate on her current duty. A goblin who had obviously been assigned to wait for her motioned impatiently to follow him after she had taken only a single step into the building. Amelia was led through the main hall of the bank to one of the side conference rooms. Standard goblin décor greeted them as they passed through a small waiting room which she assumed was adjacent to the conference room itself. As before she merely nodded to those waiting before moving forward and into the main room and the root of the problem which summoned her.
Amelia took in the conference room as she strode through it. Dusky marble made up the floor, walls and columns. Blood red veins spider webbed through the entire structure actuating the goblin décor which hung from the various surfaces about her. Weapons and arms, tapestries dating from various goblin rebellions marking their victories, with a mingling of several busts or statues of their warrior hero's hung or stood about the room. Four tables cut from the blackest obsidian stood in a typical square within the center of the room surrounding a pedestal which sat a single orb like object. The only sounds to greet her came from the spitting and hissing of the great multitude of torches that hung from the columns and walls and the muted clink of the only seated goblins tea cup. She took note of the people in attendance but paid them no heed yet.
Her guide led her to the seated goblin that looked to have not a care in the world as he sat leaning back in his chair enjoying his 'tea'. The Goblins idea of tea however was exceptionally different from the standard British citizen. She was by far no expert on goblin culture; she wasn't Augusta Longbottom who seemed to know everything about everything that had anything to do with politics, however she had enough dealings with them over the years to know about some of their tea practices. Such knowledge allowed Madam Bones to immediately recognize the style of the goblin tea service. It was only ever used when they severed 'Krakunbrol'. Krakunbrol translated roughly as 'the true pleasure'. The 'tea' smelled like dragon piss and tasted even worse. The goblins believed that only in courting death did one feel truly alive. As a part of their tea ceremonies it exemplified one of their oldest sayings that 'Death was an experience best shared with another.' Krakunbrol was easily toxic enough to kill most humans and had killed more than a few goblins.
"Madam Bones. How good of you to join us. Tea?" Her guide took his place at a respectful distance behind the seated goblin. The goblin who addressed her lazily looked to her giving her a great toothy smile. His voice told her more of his age than his appearance. She privately wondered what the hell one of the elder clansman was doing presiding over a simple will reading.
"Please." She replied. Her shrewd eyes noted the goblins expression shift slightly approvingly. Amelia took the proffered seat next to the elder goblin while he poured her a cup of the foul drink. Her bodyguards took positions behind her and at her flanks. They stood rigidly at attention with their arms behind them quickly becoming nothing more than breathing additions to the goblins décor.
The goblin placed the cup of brackish liquid onto the small plate while placing a bezoar next to it. At her raised eyebrow he once again smiled toothily at her while he slid the plate to her. "Your kind are so delicate. It would be a shame to have to waste a perfectly fine day having to explain to your Ministry why their department head was returned to them in a sack." He answered her unasked question. A veiled insult backed by how most goblins thought of her race. Weak. Amelia took the cup but left the bezoar where it rested. She had never nor will she ever show weakness to anyone. Be they human or goblin.
She raised the cup to respectfully toast her companion before she took her sip. It took all of her self-control to prevent her dislike of the disgusting beverage to show on her face. She noted through her companion's eyes his estimation of her rose considerably as she drank from the cup he provided. His smile changed from one of veiled dislike for her kind to grudging respect for Amelia herself. She forced her gag reflex to relax and her throat to open up enough to talk. "Exactly as it was the last time I had the opportunity to sample it. It is always a pleasure to walk the razor's edge with a worthy companion." She was pleased she sounded completely normal. She was also pleased to note the regime of potions she had started taking after the attack on her manor also included a general poison's antidote. Having survived one assassination attempt she did not want to give her enemy's a chance to kill her in a more subtle way and this enhanced her image amongst those in attendance as well as the goblins.
Per tradition they sat in silence for a few moments giving each of them the chance to die with honor. When neither showed signs of doing so the goblin smacked his lips as he finished the last swallow of his tea. "Shall we get started? I believe your summons included information on what you would need to arbitrate?"
She lowered her cup to its plate while giving a single nod more than happy enough to have an excuse to no longer partake of the tea. "I find myself surprised that Gringotts found itself needing the expertise of our Ministry."
He waved dismissively. "This particular will is froth with difficulties. Sirius Black spent thirteen years wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. No trial worthy of note, no Veritaserum, no confession just imprisonment. Because of that he never had the chance to continue his line to void this contestation of his wishes. I also understand his life was given in defense of the same Ministry that took so much from him. We at Gringotts have no desire to play the maid to the disorder of your house so it is fitting one of your people be called in to clean it up yourselves."
Amelia controlled her facial features to prevent the wince she felt. Sirius Black was definitely a black eye the Ministry would be sporting for some time. "I see. Any particular reason why I specifically was summoned to attend to this bit of housekeeping?"
"Inheritance laws amongst your people are very convoluted and difficult for us to understand as they make little to no sense to any right minded goblin. To put it bluntly, we at Gringotts have no wish to sully our hands on what is quite possibly a very explosive issue. Should your laws dictate these issues go one way or the other and that turns out to be an unpopular decision it will be your Ministry's decision to, as some of you humans say, fuck up. Who better than the Head of the department that is tasked with maintaining and the enforcement of your laws?"
In other words Gringotts wanted no part of any issue that could tarnish their honor or image. This was either going to catapult her into the Minister's seat or get her fired. Explosive was an understatement. Of course the fact this also involved Harry Potter would also guarantee this would be front page news come tomorrow. No wonder Gringotts didn't want anything to do with it. Amelia smiled grimly. And so it was up to her, of all bloody people, to deal with this. Hopefully she could get through this without having to light any fuses herself.
She leaned back in her chair folding her hands before her. Every aspect of her demeanor proclaiming 'business'. "I see. What issues plague this particular will?"
"Draco Malfoy disputes the validity of the Will. The basis of his claim is that Walburga Black, daughter of Pollux and Irma Black and mother to Sirius Black disinherited Sirius Black. Due to his disinherited the Will is void as having no standing over the disbursement of the Black Estate. The first issue is whether the will itself is allowed to be read and whether or not Sirius Black was within his rights to dispense of properties and monies from his ancestral estate.
"Now, Albus Dumbledore has claimed that there are no records of Walburga Black having legally disowned Sirius Black and so the Will stands. As you are aware if the objection of the will is allowed this becomes a simple matter of the closest male blood member ascending to Head of House status and claiming the Black inheritance in total. Currently this is in contestation between Draco Malfoy and Harry Potter. Mr. Malfoy claims his blood status through his mother Narcissa Malfoy nee Black whom is descended from what became a secondary branch of the Black Family which gives him the closest blood tie to this estate. When this was brought to light Harry Potter rebutted to the fact his fraternal grandmother was one Dorea Potter nee Black. Daughter of Cygnus and Violetta Black and sister to Pollux Black. His claim comes from the direct line which strengthens his claim to the estate."
Amelia nodded but internally her stomach was trying to revolt, and not from the tea. Though a pureblood herself she had neither time nor liking for how convoluted family lines could be. If memory served her from her early days when her own mother had forced her to memorize the family tree and trees of other noteworthy houses Pollux Black was Malfoy's Great Grandfather while he was a Great Uncle to Potter. Now Pollux begot Walburga whom despite being a woman was favored by her father to carry on the main line through her marriage to Orion Black who was her second cousin therefor re-purifying the Black Line. If memory served Walburga Black nee Black had made much of being the Head of House Black even if she presided over the death and extinction of the entire House with the death of her son, the imprisonment of her other son, and the death or marriage of side lines into other houses. Technically Malfoy's claim would be closest in blood being that his grandfather was Pollux's son Cygnus. However since Dorea married into the Potters and not into a secondary branch Potters claim could be seen as directly to the main branch even if it was a generation behind Malfoy's claim. She might as well flip a coin to decide since both claims where dated back several generations.
Having had an idea this might be part of why she was called she opened the case she brought with her and began going through the papers that denoted family lines to verify what she remembered. Not that she needed to but it gave the mostly ignored people in attendance the impression she was not making a snap biased judgment. After a few moments her thoughts were confirmed which left her going through the official documents of family lines to verify whether or not Walburga had actually filed the paperwork to have Sirius kicked out of the family. There were a lot of names on the list throughout the Black family lines but Sirius was not one of them. Amelia raised her eyes to the Goblin next to her and pronounced her judgment over this issue.
"Due to lack of evidence regarding the supposed disinheritance I find the case presented by Albus Dumbledore to hold true. The last word of Sirius Black stands for the purpose of disbursement of properties and monies from the Estate of Black." The last things she wanted was for the Malfoy's to get the Black fortune. It would have just ended up in He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Name'd war chest otherwise. So this solution pleased her personally to no end. It also helped that it was completely legal and accurate.
For the first time those in attendance were acknowledged by the goblin sitting next to her. Draco Malfoy's delicate features transformed from the knowing smirk of the victor to a flushed red of anger at having his ploy negated. Dumbledore sat impassively with his hands folded and his eyes twinkling at the pronouncement. "That then settles that. The Ministry has spoken on the matter and Draco Malfoy's claim is invalidated and we can continue to the next order of business." The elder goblin turned to the mostly ignored attendant behind him. "We can continue with the Will Reading. Send in those whom are listed." The attendant bowed before striding to the doors to finally admit those who were waiting admittance.
"If that is all I was required for?" Amelia asked of the goblin to her right.
"Not quite. We may have need for you before everything is done and it would be a bother to resend for you. Please remain." Stated her tablemate. The room filled quietly with only the sounds of shuffling feet mingling with the torches before the doors shut once again and silence reigned.
Amelia was mildly surprised when Molly and Arthur Weasley did not sit together. Molly took her seat at Dumbledore's table while Arthur took his at Potters. Soon joining him at the table was Remus Lupin. She always liked Lupin and still remembered him fondly from their school days together. He looked rather haggard but that was to be expected with his best mate thought of as a traitor, now cleared of all charges, and his condition.
"We seem to be missing someone. A Nymphadora Tonks was supposed to have been in attendance for this reading." The elder goblin stated to his attendant. Before the attendant could respond Lupin spoke up.
"I have a notary here Bank Manager from Ms. Tonks. Due to important previous duties she was unable to attend and asked me to stand in for her." Amelia frowned before she could check herself. Tonks had no such duties with her department that would have prohibited her from attending. If she remembered the schedule correctly she was even off duty today by special request. Her eyes shifted momentarily to Dumbledore who was also frowning. Nor it seemed was she on some assignment for the underground vigilante group Dumbledore ran judging by the frown on his face. As she watched the attendant take the note from Lupin to the elder goblin she wondered why Harry Potter looked so… shifty about this issue. If her sources were correct that was his girlfriend Granger sitting next to him and both had their heads together seemingly at odds about something. She remembered both seemed surprised when she first entered and wondered why their eyes kept shifting to her off and on. It was most curious behavior.
"This is acceptable." The elder goblin mumbled as he finished reading over the notary. "Very well, as per previous arrangements and to quell any and all objections over the validity of his Will, Sirius Black recorded his wishes onto an Impression Sphere which will be played now."
In the center of the room a ghostly image of Sirius began to manifest and form into a clear image of the ex-con before his voice began echoing throughout the chamber. "December 28th 1995. I Sirius Orion Black do hereby state this to be my Last Will and Testament making any and all prior wills invalid and void in accordance to goblin traditions and rights set down through the Gringotts Charter of Rights established and ratified by the Ministry of Magic July 7th 1903."
The image of Sirius smirked before continuing. "Well, if my voice is actually being heard then so far no attempts to kill my rights as the last Black have succeeded and we can get to the good stuff.
"First I would like to state that the only goodie getters of my Will shall be from the following people. Arthur and Molly Weasley. Dumbledore. Nymphadora Tonks. Heh, can't hex me now cousin." Sirius blew a raspberry into the air mockingly. Amelia again wondered why Potter frowned at the mention of Tonks first name or why it seemed like he winced. Maybe it was a trick of the flickering torchlight. An unpleasant thought started to take root within her however. Surely not…Sirius's voice continued drawing her attention back to the proceedings. "Remus Lupin. Harry Potter. Hermione Granger. Anyone from the Malfoy or the Lestrange families and anyone else not listed are invited to kiss my hairy, pale, dead arse. A reach around would be nice but not expected. Since you're already down there and all. Now get out before your stench causes the remaining decent folk off their lunch."
At this point the image froze and attention was focused on Draco Malfoy. His face was beat red and his whole body was shaking. "This is an outrage! I demand my right to this inheritance be recognized!"
"Your demand is rejected as are you from this reading Mr. Malfoy. As per Ministry ruling the deceased wishes are the final authority. Leave or I shall summon our guards and have you thrown from this building."
Draco sat fuming and sputtering while looking around and finding no support for his case. He stood quickly and stalked through the door slamming it shut with his exit. "Pity. I was actually hoping he would have stayed. I wager Org'et could have thrown him within ten of the final steps. Shame we'll not know now…" Amelia had to bite her tongue to stop herself from laughing at the downcast look on the elder goblins face. With a flick of his hand the image of Sirius restarted.
"Now that that is out of the way we can get to the goodies. To Remus Lupin I give the sum total of ten thousand galleons." Sirius expression softened. "Take care of yourself Moony. Don't think of this as charity. Think of it as a parting gift to my best mate. It's more than enough to get you by for some time with plenty to spare. Get some clothes, a few good meals, and a woman. Time to live Moony old son. You're the last of us now. Protect Harry.
"To Arthur and Molly Weasley. Your family has done a lot since Harry came back to our world to help him. No matter the original reasons why. I gift to you the sum of ten thousand galleons. I know we never saw eye to eye Molly but we both have always had the same goal in mind when it came to Harry. Just don't allow your bias to blind you to the fact Harry is his own man now. He has been for some time. He's not a child. Treat him like the adult he is and help him. Harry will need all the trusty people around him he can get.
"To Nymphadora Tonks." Sirius snickered. Amelia was watching carefully this time and caught Harry wincing. "I so love the fact I can get away with that. I leave a special gift. Your mother and I were pretty close in our youth and I regret I was unable to reconnect with her after my escape. So something special since I got buggered before I could get a pardon and do this proper. I submit the paperwork for Andromeda Tonks nee Black to be reinstated into the Black family. Also, I will a vault to be set aside in your name in the amount of twenty thousand galleons for the purpose of your dowry when the time comes. Hopefully you can find a good strong wolf to help you claim that soon. Let your mother know I also order a similar amount to be gifted to Ted Tonks as dowry for his marriage to Andromeda Tonks nee Black. If nothing else having the two highest dowries' for any marriage in our family's history will be more than enough to cause my mother to roll over and puke in her grave. A good enough legacy to leave behind me if nothing else sticks." Tears trekked down Harry's face at the conclusion of that round. The frown on Amelia's face deepened.
"To Albus Dumbledore. I already know you won't listen to me but you need to. The games you are playing with Harry are going to cost us everything. You need to remember, Harry is not a chess piece in this match you are fighting against Voldemort. Nor is he sacrificial. One day your manipulations are going to come home to roost and everything you have ever done will come to light. You will pay for it one way or the other. If not in this life, then the next where I will be waiting for you. You were not always a bad person Headmaster. Whether you will remain so is the judgment of the ages. To you I leave a collection of journals excerpts from James and myself when we were at school to remind you of who you use to be. For all our sakes I hope you remember.
"Everything else, properties and monies are given over to the one and only Harry James Potter. Harry, I am sorry we won't have the time together either of us would have liked. Between my status as fugitive and Molly running interference when we have a free moment there really hasn't been a lot time for us. I leave you with this advice. Hold on to that feisty brunette Harry and never let her get away. Remember nothing else matters in life except for what she thinks of you. Live Harry. Live."
The image of Sirius had tears of his own but his voice stayed steady. "Well, I guess that does it. Don't mourn the passing of this old dog but remember me fondly. Take your time joining me and I'll keep the ale on ice for you when you get here."
The imaged flickered and then faded away leaving the room completely silent but for the torches. "All disbursements have already been seen to. Axefang awaits you to claim keys or to sign the necessary paperwork to finalize everything." Stated the disinterested goblin sitting at the table with her. "There only remains one other item of business and that is with Mister Potter. The rest of you may go."
The Weasley's and Lupin rose to leave however Dumbledore remained seated. This fact was easily noted by the goblin at her table. "You are not invited to stay Chief Warlock."
Dumbledore nodded but remained seated. "As Mr. Potter's Magical Guardian I am obliged to tend to all legal matters until he reaches his majority at seventeen."
Amelia offered no reaction. It was no surprise to her as it was on record that he was Potters Guardian in Default as Headmaster of Hogwarts. A law he fashioned himself and was pushed through the Wizengamot just after the Potters demise back in 81' to help the 'orphaned and unfortunately displaced'.
"Very well. Mr. Potter Sirius Black left behind a decree of Emancipation to take effect at the moment of his death. However, due to his legal status as an escaped prisoner amongst your Ministry it was could never be ratified. Now however it is a simple matter…"
"I am afraid Honored Elder that I must decline Sirius Black's offer on Harry's behalf. It would not be prudent at this juncture." Dumbledore interrupted.
"Really…" Amelia noticed the shrewd look in the goblin's eyes. "Perhaps we should allow our Ministry arbitrator to decide yes? Madam Bones?"
Bollocks. She swore internally. Amelia leaned back in her chair going over everything she knew about these types of laws. It was pretty rare as the need for them almost never came up. "Mr. Potter. As I recall you are due to start your 6th year. Is that correct?"
"Yes Ma'am." Harry confirmed.
"You turn seventeen when?"
"July 31st, next year Ma'am."
Madam Bones dragged the moment out for a few heart beats. "I see no reason why the Emancipation cannot stand. Sirius Black was and remained Mr. Potter's Godfather and guardian even throughout his imprisonment. With his exoneration there is no bar preventing his wishes from being carried out. As you are aware Chief Warlock Parental Guardianship trumps Guardian by Default. However, as per the old laws Dumbledore will have to continue as acting Steward governing the Potter trust until you fully come of age." Amelia didn't have to like it but that was as far as the law would allow her to go on this issue. Potter would be free to exercise his rights as an adult, such as being free of the underage magic laws as well as seeking employment or entering into contracts, but he was too young yet to assume full control over his family's assets. Her eyes shifted to Dumbledore. He sat smugly at her decision. Hopefully this did not blow up in her face later.
"Good good then that is settled." The goblin stated unconcerned at the developments. "This event is now settled. Leave."
With that abrupt dismissal the elder goblin rose from his seat and left the room with his attendant following. She herself rose while putting her paperwork away and followed the others out.
Once in the main hall of Gringotts Amelia raised her voice to call out. "Mr. Potter." Harry stopped suddenly appearing tense. His girlfriend also froze in place. "A word please." She lowered her voice so only her body guards could hear what she said next. "Meet me outside. I'll only be a moment." Her Auror escort nodded before walking past to exit the bank.
Dumbledore stood a distance away but she noted he kept his eyes firmly fixed on Mr. Potter. When the two teens stood before her she made a fuss of situating her paperwork within her valise. Her eyes fixed firmly on her doings she lowered her voice so only the two in front of her could hear. "Nine am tomorrow morning. My office Auror Tonks. You as well Auror Jones. We are going to have a little chat about your futures in the Ministry. Topics to be discussed will revolve around whether you have one and why I shouldn't have you arrested for impersonation and attempted defraudment of an Ancient and Noble House. That is all."
She noted both winced and seemed to shrink into themselves while she was talking. Harry/Tonks shifted his/her sight over to Dumbledore before returning them to her asking sheepishly, "Er, I don't suppose you could help us with Dumbledore could you Boss?"
"You dug your own hole Tonks. Dig yourself out of it. Tomorrow Morning. Do not be late." The stern square jawed department head ordered.
With that Amelia walked past the shape shifted Aurors and exited the Bank. Her body guards fell in step with her once she exited the bank and stayed with her until she was back in the grungy alley that rested next to the Leaky Cauldron where she Apparated.
XxXDaRXxX
Albus Dumbledore stormed back through the Bank doors of Gringotts. Having been deceived by two he trusted had left him in a temper. Once again he lost Harry but this time by a subterfuge perpetrated by one of his own, Nymphadora Tonks. However, the Will reading had left him with an option he didn't have before. As Steward of an Emancipated Minor he was finally granted the ability to enter the Potter Family Vault. There he hoped to reclaim personal effects from both James and Lily Potter, effects he himself placed there shortly after their demise. This would allow him to use Gibson's First Law of Holomorphism. A part is considered a model for the whole. The larger the part the stronger the link. In conjunction with Wilson's Sixth Law of Impressionism which allows that certain objects will develop affinities with living beings. With such effects he very well could craft a tracking device that will finally allow him to find the allusive Mr. Potter.
So focused on his objective Dumbledore didn't even notice they had finally arrived at their destination until the cart goblin spoke. "Vault one hundred and six."
Dumbledore exited the cart and waited for the goblin to open the door but what he saw when he entered left him speechless. It was completely empty save for a single folded bit of parchment which sat underneath two Knuts. He stormed over to where they lay and snatched up the parchment to read what it said not even paying attention to the sounds of the two coins rolling away. There in simple elegant script read three words that comprised a single sentence.
You've been Hoodwinked!
XxXDaRXxX
When she appeared Amelia immediately began walking to the double doors that guarded the main entrance to the Longbottom Estate. Sprawling meadowlands ran for as far as the eye could see from on top of this hilltop manor. A strong smell of green assaulted her. She always loved coming to Longbottom Manor. The door was opened before she managed to knock by the Longbottom heir.
"Well?" He impatiently asked.
"Tea would be lovely thank you Neville." She replied ignoring his question and reminding him of his manners. The young man had the decency to blush before he held the door open for her and went to retrieve the tea service.
Amelia entered the salon and smiled genteelly at those already seated there. Dame Longbottom sat regally in her accustomed chair while Minerva McGonagall sat next to her. Amelia took the only remaining seat at the table just as Neville rushed in with the tea service and began to serve them.
"Minerva was just telling me that she saw you in Diagon Alley earlier. No difficulties I hope?" asked the oldest lady of the three.
Amelia turned to face the Deputy Headmistress noticing the interesting collar around her neck that sported a small rain barrel. "Not at all. I was asked to arbitrate a couple of disputes that had arisen during the reading."
Both of her companions raised their eyebrows at that remark. "And?" asked Damn Longbottom.
"It is fortunate your grandson and my niece brought this matter to our attention. It was a very near thing. Malfoy had presented a very solid case to have the Will disallowed. Had the goblins not asked for an arbiter it could have easily gone that direction. As it was the Goblins differed to me which allowed for it to be read."
"My word. I was afraid it would be something like that from what Albus had mentioned to me." McGonagall stated.
Amelia nodded. "Sirius recorded his wishes on an Impression Sphere so that neatly negated any attempt to discredit the Will as fraudulent as well as negate any fraudulent Wills either the Malfoy's or Dumbledore had planned on using. Smart on his part. Smarter than I would have given him credit for considering how difficult it would have been for him to sneak into Diagon Alley. Neat trick that. I wonder how he managed it? It would be invaluable information we could use to prevent anything like it happening again considering the state of things."
The others nodded while Amelia took a drink of the tea. It was far superior to what she had earlier and she welcomed the cleansing feeling as she swallowed. "Once the Will was read it was fairly direct. Sirius expressed his wishes and the goblins followed it. The only wrinkle was Sirius Emancipated Potter."
Minerva frowned. "How can that be seen as a wrinkle? This can only help him when he returns to us if not help him now. We also took precautions to cover this eventuality."
It was Augusta who answered. "Because of the old laws involving House Management. Potter would not be allowed to manage his own accounts because of his age. Dumbledore would still hold sway as Steward until he reaches his majority. This will finally give Dumbledore access to the Potter Family Vault. As you stated with our precautions this problem is negated but it will still have far reaching influence should Potter return before he reaches his majority."
Amelia looked to McGonagall. "I assume everything proceeded as we hoped on your end?"
"Yes, Undar of the House of Krill was most helpful. Only Mr. Potter can remove this necklace. The enchantments are almost identical as those they use on Family Vaults in the lower levels and everything bar what you asked me to leave was put inside. I am effectively a courier for Mr. Potter now. When he returns I shall return to him what is rightfully his. The only problem on my end was that while I was transferring Mr. Potter's inheritance Undar was assassinated by Thakthor, the Black Account Manager as per their customs. Thankfully there are no records as to our transactions so this matter rests between the three of us." Neither of the ladies choose to acknowledge the smiling teen who stood by the door. "Undar knew as soon as the Will was read this would be the likely result. He was quite advanced in years for a goblin and was quite aware he did not have the capabilities to triumph over his much younger and stronger competitor. I do believe this was the main reason he choose to help us."
"Excellent." Stated Madam Bones. "Then this matter is done. Mr. Potter receives his inheritance and we prevent You-Know-Who as well as Dumbledore from acquiring any ill-gotten wealth. You did leave the alarms so we will know if or when Dumbledore will enter the vault?"
Minerva nodded sadly. "They are connected to a rune stone in my quarters. I do hope I am wrong about him. However, prior actions he has taken when it has come to Mr. Potter have left me doubting."
"He was a great man once. A real force to be reckoned with and patron to the light. Do you honestly believe he can be redeemed Minerva?"
"I can but hope."
Amelia nodded. "I shall take my leave then ladies. A pleasure as always. Thank you very much for the tea Augusta. Keep me updated on developments." As Amelia left her thoughts turned to whether or not Dumbledore would attempt to enter the Potter Family Vault. Until now he only had control over his trust but with Potter's ascension to adulthood the Steward gained greater privileges on his charges behalf. One thing was sure, if he does we will know and that will tell us if we did the right thing. Amelia smiled for the first time that day. He certainly will be surprised if he does. And people say I have no sense of humor…
Authors Notes:
Okay, Chapter Fourteen revision is done. For those of you interested in the story instead of my drivel, by all means leave a review telling me what you think of this chapter, and then hit that 'Next' button. Enjoy the read. As always thank you to all reviews and readers. You are noticed and appreciated.
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