Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or its character, those belong to J.K. Rowling.
Rated M For safe, and mature themes - Unsure Let if will contain 'lemons' since I'd rather not have my story removed. Nor do I know the final pairings let.
"Out loud"
'Thoughts' / internal thinking
Author Note: First of all Happy New Year to all my readers, thank you for your support and feedback, I think the most active reviewer is Coldblue, I would also like to pay tribute to my Betas for helping me get this far. I hope with you assistance I can make this story truly great.
So thank you for your help and support.
On this note, I currently have a massive load of chapters in the middle of the story, like 13 chapters what need to be revised and beta, If anyone of you feel like leaning a hand to do a chapter or two, I'll be most grateful. This way I can focus on moving the story forward. And it helps my overworked Betas...
Midnight Gold, the Rise of the Forgotten Lord
Chapter 25: Chasing Dreams
Posted 7th Jan 2013
Revised and Betad by slicerness
The first month back had been rather uneventful for the most part, and he had finally begun to relax since there, so far, had been no signs of Lord Malfoy plot. Still, there was plenty of time left, the school year had barely started.
He was walking around the grounds, enjoying the chance to enjoy the good weather and be able to walk outside before Autumn changed into Winter forcing him indoors.
Hearing the sound of voices, he turned to find the Gryffindor Quidditch team training, getting ready for their first game. Debating whether he could get close enough to watch so he could gather any insight into their style of play, he quickly dismissed the idea, since there was no way he get across the grounds without being spotted by one of the players.
He made a mental note in his codex to check when the Quidditch pitch was next booked before carrying on with his walk around the grounds. However his walk was interrupted then he heard another group of students off in the distance heading down to pitch.
Watching the group as they closed marched towards the lions he could make out green robes of Slytherin team. He could easily predict what was about to unfold, since the two Quidditch teams rivalry was legendary in its own right. Even before you added Neville and Malfoy to the equation, who themselves were quickly becoming legends.
He decided to move close, using the distraction the Slytherin team would provide to get into spot where he could observer the players. He could use some entertainment since the day had been rather boring so far. Both of the boys seemed to be in constant contest to try to outdo each other, it was almost worthily of a TV drama. He quickly moved into the stands now that attention was diverted.
Reaching the top of the staircase he carefully placed himself in the shadow of the staircase, allowing himself to watch the unfolding drama without being spotted by either side. Smirking from his advantage point, it was like having box seats for a premier game. He threw up an Eavesdropping Charm, allowing him to hear what was going on down below. 'Mental note, thank Daphne for teaching me that charm.'
Much amusement was had by the raven haired boy as the insults started to fly between the squads before Flint finally pulled out a piece of paper. It wasn't too long before he could hear several of moans and groans coming from the Gryffindor players culminating in the Gryffindor Captain, Oliver Wood, explaining the note was from Professor Snape giving Slytherin team permission to train, under the excuse of having a new seeker... Draco.
'Sneaky bastard,' He thought, before suddenly zoning back in on the action as he saw the first wands being drawn after a remark he missed.
The next thing that happened was a full blown seven-on-seven skirmish before his very eyes. He began focusing his mind and magic on recording the memory in detail. He didn't pay much attention to individual fights, more concerned about getting as much detail to memory. Later, he could review the memory and watch individual duels, but for now he just wanted to capture everything.
However, he was more than willing to admit he wanted to watch Longbottom and Draco the most since they were in his year. Plus he wanted to see how advanced Neville's training really was, after the Charms Master's remarks about his advanced tutoring before school.
Longbottom quickly overpowered Draco, catching the Slytherin Seeker off guard with surprisingly fast Stunning Charm. The outcome was kind of expected considering he had already receiving training in duelling. Longbottom then turned his attention towards his teammates battles and helped where he could.
It was surprising that Draco hadn't received any instruction from his parents, or his godfather.
Harry was also amused to note that no one attempted to revive Draco. As the two teams faced off, with Gryffindor working more as a team and Slytherin acting more as individuals duellers. Despite the superior Gryffindor tactics the fight was rather evenly matched, even with Slytherin being one man down. However they had the advantage of most of their players being in their NEWT years, with Wood being the only NEWT student on Gryffindor's side.
Watching the spells fly backwards and forwards, quite a few of which he couldn't recognize, but most of spells appeared to be more about disarming and disabling than harming, based off the regular flashes of orange and red impacting shields. The Twins were surprisingly effective with their combo style fighting, and their usage of pranks spells and jinxs were used to devastating effect as one of their opponent got hit with slug vomiting hex and a laughing jinx at same time.
'Unlucky bugger' He thought with a wince, watching the guy try to cancel the dual ailment, but failing to due to effects of the spells. His suffering only ended when one of the Slytherin Beaters fired a finite spell, cancelling them. In return the Beater was hit by a Hair Growth Jinx for his efforts, blinding him to next barrage of spells from the twins.
As the five minute mark approached neither side appeared willing to back down. He really was attempted to cast his own series of stunners and disarming charms into mix to help break the dead lock into Gryffindor's favour. Since Slytherin were clearly gaining the advantage from having older players despite being two men down, he felt it was only right.
His wand halted as he began deciding whether he could get away with breaking a couple of the Slytherin team's broomsticks without being noticed by either side. After weighing the odds he decided not too; there was just too much risk. Besides, the other three Houses would have new brooms as well, removing Slytherin's advantage in the upcoming matches anyways.
Turning his attention back to Neville he noticed the boy was panting heavily from exhaustion, whether from magical or physical effects, before he was in turn hit by a Banishing Charm after his attempted shield failed to hold. 'Trained and powerful, but lacks endurance.' He surmised.
By the ten minute mark it was clear that Slytherin had the advantage, and the Lions were willing to call it quits before they lost out right. It was now four on five fight in the snakes favour since two of the three Gryffindor chasers had fallen alongside Neville.
He couldn't tell which ones from his position, but he was sure of one them was Katie. As the teams separated he finally saw one of Slytherin chasers get around to awakening their fallen Seeker, who clearly wanted to carry on the fight while the rest of team clearly wanted to sit down. From his advantage point, he just quietly watched, renewing the eavesdropping charm as it started to fizzle out.
"Interesting fight." Someone behind him said.
Recognizing the voice as Daphne's he didn't even bother turning around. "Indeed, the twins were devastating, I actually felt sorry for guy who got hit by the slug vomiting hex and laughing jink at same time." He commented offhandedly.
"I missed that part." She admitted, moving up to stand next to him. "See anything important?"
"Not yet, but learned a bit more of Longbottom's abilities. Draco was dispatched within two spells before he could even cast a shield spell. Neville is powerful, but lacks endurance, he tired very fast." He noted, giving her a summary of the fight.
"Always good to know." She demurred before staring down at Draco. "I'll spread the story of how fast Draco got dispatched, I'm sure by end of week the whole school will know what happened."
Grinning at Daphne statement, looking at her for the first time since she spoke he sent her a grin, "Well, I'll leave it in your capable hands." Which gained him a small smile. "So what brings you out here? I doubt it's to watch the Slytherin team."
Smiling at him sweetly, she replied innocently, "Why wouldn't I? I'm all for supporting my House team. The question is why are you here? Spying on my team?"
"You know why I'm here. Scouting out my competition." He scoffed, waving his hand down at Draco. "As lightly as I can use that term..."
"Besides, you would do the same in my position, knowledge is power after all." He said to the heiress, "Is Pansy still having indigestion problems? After all, bad gas is to be expected when you have a poor diet."
"Well I'm grateful I share my room with Tracy." Daphne admitted.
"Lucky, I wonder how long until the issue is resolved?"
"A couple more days, any more and people will start to suspect some type of prank was involved." She said with mock innocence. "I don't purpose that you happen to know anything for ones skin? She's awfully pale."
"I'm sure I can find something." He said with a grin, "You got anything worked out for the apes?"
"No, I don't see the need for it."
"Alright." He replied, not really wanting to get involved in the Slytherin power struggle any more than was necessary. "Maybe the cat clubs should receive some of their own medicine?" He suggested, referring to the second year Gryffindors.
"Perhaps."
"So what was it you wanted to discuss?" He inquired, moving away from the door because he seriously doubted it was Pansy's gassy condition.
"Oh nothing major, just wondering when whatever scheme you're cooking up recently is going happen." Daphne asked while looking out the door. "After all, in last couple weeks you have regularly met with all three heads of houses, and Madam Hooch, so obviously it's something to do with Quidditch."
"Been spying on me then have you?" He said playfully, showing no concern, but was actually a bit alarmed that she had been monitoring him so closely.
"No, but Draco is." She clarified, looking down onto the field. "He's got a couple other students following you, I know he'd try to bully Tracy too but he got a stinging hex for his trouble, from both of us, last time he tried. Blaise made some comments that Draco was stalking you, which seemed to dampen his enthusiasm."
"Well, that's interesting... and bit disturbing." He said slowly, wondering if Snape or the boy's father had set him the task, "And for the record, I prefer girls, at least as far as I can tell for being 12 years old." trying to lighten the conversation.
"Good to know, otherwise I think half the girls in our year would be disappointed, I think Hannah has a crush on you by the way."
"Abbot? Susan's friend?" He asked, remembering the sly blonde at Susan's birthday party.
"Know any other Hannah's?" She replied, in her 'you're being stupid' tone.
"No." he admitted, unless she was referring to couple mundane ones from his primary school. "Not attending Hogwarts at least."
"You also might want to know I saw Chang following you as well, but I don't think it has anything to do with Draco, he's too arrogant and cocky to believe he would need anyone else, especially someone not Slytherin." She expressed, confirming what their shared opinion of the boy was.
"So I have two stalkers then, just what I needed..." He grumbled, privately wondering what their games were.
"At least one is a girl." Daphne offered.
"There is that. It won't be too difficult to avoid them I suppose, eventually they'll grow bored." He commented before turning to watch the Slytherin team run drills, his mind mulling over the problem.
The pair of them silently watched the pitch, comfortable in their silence as they both schemed and plotted, before Daphne broke the silence as Draco unleashed the snitch. "Which one are you more concerned about?"
"Chang." He answered after a moment of considering their motives. "I can guess Draco is acting on the behalf of his Father, due to the events of this summer. After all, I took a title from him, a title he believed would have been his come Sirius' death. Then I'm also the one responsible for his family losing quite a bit of its influence. If I was him, I would have an axe to grind. There's also that agreement with Professor Snape, making a rather large fool of him in front of other Head of Houses, and the goblins. So Draco probably has been encouraged by his father and godfather to cause me some grief, just to cause problems and make my life more difficult. Notice how Snape's been lashing out at Ravenclaws in Potions far more this year?" He pointed out casually, like he was discussing the weather for the day.
"Chang? Chang I can guess is after me because I beat her at Quidditch, I just don't know what she wants to achieve beyond seeker position, or her methods, she's a random element."
"And Draco isn't?" his Slytherin friend probed.
"No, his power has always been his name and more importantly his father influence. Both of which means he needs to be more carefully who he starts fights with now. But I doubt he'll consider that, since he's been brought up on the belief that he's at the 'top of the tree'. He has to be shaken a bit before he accepts that he isn't. Snape is currently in disgrace with the other professors, and can't really touch me directly, making that advantage moot. I just have to watch my back for any ambushes in the corridors. As we've just seen, Draco isn't much of a fighter, so he'll fight dirty."
"You make it sound so normal, as if it was a day to day event." Daphne stated.
"I've always had to watch my back." He said, his eyes roaming the pitch, spotting and tracking the snitch it, wondering how long it would take for Draco to locate it.
"I suggest then you do better job, I managed to sneak up on you, Mr I Watch My Back." she said seriously, before smiling a smile that seemed to promise discomfort. "Next time I manage to sneak up on you I'll jinx you for letting your guard down. I'll tell Tracy to do the same."
"Is that really necessary? I was distracted by the entertainment on the pitch," Referring to the fight. Not really wanting to go around school for the foreseeable future watching his back from both Daphne and Tracy.
"Tell that to an assassin." She countered.
"Maybe I will..." He stated before seeing the snitch zipping towards him. "Whilst I remember, you and Tracy may want to mention to Professor Snape, you are both my allies and friends next time you see our beloved potions master," causing her to cock an eyebrow at the statement, before he offered an explanation. "Since under the magical contract he blindly signed, he can't use mind arts on you, if that is the case." He explained before snatching the Snitch as it zoomed by the door on impulse. Feeling the Snitch stiffen in his hand, the magic powering it's wings deactivate in his hand as he did so.
"Merlin! Its good thing I change my bet."
Opening his hand to examine the golden snitch he asked, "So what are the odd then?" Whilst examining the Snitch in his hand. Looking at the date encased on it 1958, the realization hit him, his father had chased and caught this very Snitch during his own time at Hogwarts.
"Well, I have 10-1 on Ravenclaw winning every match. Slytherin is favourite at the moment, with 1-1 odds, with Gryffindor being 3-1 and the Puffs at 5-1." Daphne said, rattling off the odds.
"That bad huh?" He asked, looking over his shoulder her direction, but not getting an answer.
He turned back to watch the pitch as the Chasers rush past, debating whether he should keep it or not, before deciding to do so. It's not like he was stealing, he was simply considering it payment for all the training brooms and Quidditch gear from him and his uncle Hogwarts was about to receive.
Coming up with a makeshift plan he decided to hold onto the snitch until the Quidditch training session had ended, since it would help sabotage and undermine Draco's confidence if he didn't find the snitch. As well as the Slytherin team as whole, if their Seeker went the whole session without catching it. He grinned widely at the idea, as well the chance to rattle his future opposition.
"I know that smile." Daphne said with her own smirk.
"You know me too well." He shot back, playing with the Snitch in his hand.
"Can I have a look?"
"Sure, just don't reactive it." He instructed, handing over the snitch, "I want to hold onto it until Slytherin team decides to call it quits and summons it back."
"Poor Draco," She mocked as she played with the Snitch. "I'll be sure to let the whole Common Room know he failed to catch a simple Snitch as well."
"Trying to get him killed then?" He said off handily, already knowing how serious wizards took their Quidditch, having already received several threats and promises of pain if he messed up.
She answered with a feral smirk, so Harry moved on. "By the way, thanks for teaching me that Eavesdropping Charm, it was most useful." He said, his codex, flashing a reminder message.
Great Hall
Looking around the Great Hall to see if he could spot anyone to hang out with, he ended up spotting only a few possibilities, Tonks being the most appealing.
Heading over to the table, ignoring some of the curious looks he was getting, he slipped in next to his cousin, "Hey Tonks, you all right?" He asked, noticing the normally perky and full of life girl seemed almost deflated.
"I'm fine Harry." His cousin succinctly replied.
Grabbing a potato and splitting it down the centre with a knife he pressed, "Well, you don't seem fine. You seem pretty not-fine to me in fact," simultaneously as he sprinkled some shredded cheese from another bowl over his potato.
Out of the corner of his eye he could see other Puffs watching and listing to the unfolding exchange between the two of them. He was half attempted to tell them to go back to their own business, rather than eavesdropping on them, but felt it was a little hypocritical considering what he'd spent the last hour doing.
"I'm fine Harry." She repeated, but it felt forced. Plus he was picking up a negative vibe from his cousin.
"If you say so, but I don't buy it." He stated before taking a bite of his food. Not really paying much attention to the taste, preferring to keep Tonks at the centre of attention. "And don't brother denying it, you know I can tell." Reminding his cousin of one of the by-products of learning mind arts.
A couple minutes passed without comment, and the rest of the table seemed to lose interest in the conversation before he said to his cousin, "Two Dragons walked into a bar, the first dragon says, 'Damn, its hot in here', and the second one replies to the first, 'shut your mouth then'." Grinning slightly at his rubbish joke, getting a flicker of amusement from his cousin.
"Harry that was terrible."
"Yeah I know, but I can't tell sex jokes with all the innocent first years around, so I have to use Sirius' poor jokes instead." He ignored the strange looks and focused on the grin from his cousin, who knew full well what he was saying after being exposed to them so much.
"So are you Harry," She scolded playfully, before seeing a means to turn it back on her playfully.
"Really, He said with mock innocent, "But you spoiled me so much last year." Fighting back the grin as he heard some coughs coming from some of the older, more dirty minded students.
"Besides, what was that position again Tonks? Doggy something?" He said, faking innocence and naivety while getting his cousin to blush red at his statement, getting even more coughs, before hearing a meaty slap.
Finding the source was one of older puffs; a girl slapping the boy next to her on his back, Tonks spoke up, "Paul, you really need to slow down when you're eating. What are you, a first year? Chew your food." She scolded the older boy.
Harry smiled at her mischievously at the chaos he had created between the Puffs, he looked back at his cousin with amusement dancing in his eyes. With a voice full of fake innocent he said, "Did I say something wrong?" Before picking up a plate of sausages, "Want one?"
"Evil!" She hissed under her breath.
"Not my fault all you Puffs are dirty minded." He said offhandedly as he snagged a piece of fruit.
Sometime Later
"That was evil, you know that?" Tonks growled as they walked down the corridor, heading to their normal training room. "God knows what the rumour mill is going to say, let alone the teachers!"
"Meh, I wouldn't worry about the rumour mill too much, no one will believe it. Besides, if any of the teachers ask, or anyone else for that matter, you can say you gave me the birds and bees talk last year, since you didn't know if my guardians had, and you were doing the responsible thing as my cousin. After all, magical puberty is different from mundane puberty, and can happen earlier in some cases. You were just being responsible Adult." He offered in explanation.
"Sounds workable, thanks for that." Tonks sighed in relief.
"I'm grateful; you know that." He offered, "Can you imagine it, if I'd had to listen to my old magical guardian explain about that? Listening to the Headmaster talking about sex? What is he, 150 or something? Or worse, what if he had Professor Snape tell me instead? I'd be permanently scarred from that horrible experience!" He exclaimed, faking horror, getting a chuckle from his cousin for his efforts. "I doubt I could ever look at a girl again!"
"Yea, point taken, just don't do that again, okay?" She said seriously.
"I try to help where I can." Not agreeing to her threat, "Do you know what else is funny?"
"Is this another bad joke? Or prank? If so, I'll skip it thank you."
"Both, but not at your expense this time." He placated as he opened the door to their regular training room. "What do you get that wears green and can't catch a Snitch... the Slytherin Seeker!" He crowed before explaining the events of the afternoon.
"I was down at the pitch, checking out the competition, you know, recon. The whole idea of know your enemy." He offered, getting a nod, "Well, after seeing Slytherin drive the Lions from pitch using a note from Snape under the excuse of having to train their new seeker. I decided to stay behind in the shadows to watch. Frankly I wasn't impressed. With Troy gone their Chasers are nothing, their whole game plan is based on having faster brooms now, not that that will matter soon."
"So when does Sirius bring the new brooms?" She asked.
"Hmm, next week sometime, either Monday or Tuesday, but it could be Wednesday." He offered with shrugged, since it depended on getting Rita to report the event. "So when the Snitch just happens to come near me, I decide to grab it. After all, Draco can't train if he doesn't have a Snitch to catch."
"Well aren't you the rogue today!" Tonks congratulated him, finally smiling for the first time since dinner.
"No, I'm a dashing rogue today, and every day besides, Mondays." He corrected, getting a giggle.
"Fine, you're a dashing rogue, but why not Mondays?"
"Everyone hates Mondays, it's the first day of the school week, and I have to put up with Professor Lockhart first thing." He grumbled.
"Fair point, at least it's not Snape, so what do you fancy working on today?"
"Whatever you want Tonks, what do you fancy doing?"
"Do you mind if we worked on some dodging?"
"I don't mind, but can we wait to the end? We just had dinner..."
"Good point."
Tuesday Evening
"Rita, is everything set for tomorrow?" He inquired, looking into the charmed mirror.
"Yes, my lord. We should be arriving tomorrow lunch time."
"Good, I'll be at the Entrance Hall to meet you. Act naturally as possible, I don't want to raise any suspicion that we are in regular contact with each other, nor that you work for me." He instructed, seeing Rita nod. "You said a couple days ago you were having problems getting the editor to assign you to this story, how did you manage to persuade him in the end?" He wondered, recalling the earlier conversation on Friday night.
"I just told him that since I already had a good prior business relationship with Sirius Black that it made the most sense that I should cover the story rather than Mr. Root... I also just happened to use my womanly powers of persuasion to make the point." The reporter said, clearly not ashamed at her actions.
"Do I want to know?"
"Probably not."
"Well, since that's been settled, anything else I should know?" He asked, wondering if his reporter had managed to find out anything of important.
"Not really, besides the new Minister taken to courting the chief editor here at the Prophet. Not really surprising really, the last couple of Ministers have all done the same." She offered with a shrug of her shoulders, "But I do like the gift, I received."
"Since that's everything for this evening, I'll see you tomorrow."
"Yes, my lord,"
"Rita." He said suddenly, catching Rita's attention, "Wear one of the outfits I picked out for you tomorrow."
"My lord, is that really necessary? Wouldn't I look more normal if I just wore my standard robes, rather than dressing up?"
"Rita," He scolded forcefully, "my decision is final. You're representing me and my family, so you will dress the part." He lectured before smiling evilly, "I can always ban you from wearing any clothes. You know if I order it your magic would be forced to carry it out." Seeing the paling reporter nod at his remark, knowing full well that he could just do that if he desired, and would do it to prove the point, he wrapped up the conversation. "See you tomorrow Rita, sleep well." Before deactivating his mirror.
Inside the Entrance Hall
Waiting by the front doors of the Great Hall, looking down the path for the first sign of his Godfather, Harry couldn't help but feel excited. Another one of his plans was coming together nicely, by end of the hour he was sure that he'd be at the top of the social tree. As well as a confirmed favourite amongst the Head of Houses, expect Slytherin, but that was never going to happen. He would be fooling himself he ever thought Professor Snape would suddenly like him.
At least the Potions Master had backed off since they'd returned for new school year, not that the man could do anything with the current magical contract in place. Instead the Slytherin Head seemed to turn more of a blind eye to his own godson's activities and taken his venom out on the remaining Ravenclaws.
"Oh well." He said aloud, it wasn't his problem. And frankly the other Ravenclaws, if they were half as smart as they claimed to be, should be able to find their own solution. After all, he did!
Time continued to pass as he watched the day go on by. Hearing the 'pop' sound, before seeing a group of individuals appear at the front gate, heading up the path to the school itself. 'So the fun begins.' He thought cheerfully, whilst slipping into character.
"Hey Pup!" His godfather greeted warmly, pulling him into a hug as he attempted to mess up his hair further; failing to make it any more windswept than it already looked. "Grats, I heard you make the Ravenclaw team."
"Thank you, the competition was formidable, and it was a pretty close call," He reported, playing the role of humble student. In truth, the tryout had been rather easy as soon as he was allowed to Seek, rather than doing pointless drills. "Are you going to introduce me to these charming people?" Harry asked, gesturing towards to reporters, noticing Rita was wearing the light blue outfit he'd chosen while shopping.
"Ah, where are my manners, this lovely lady is Miss Skeeter. Miss Skeeter was the journalist from the Prophet that did those excellent articles about the miscarriage of justice that occurred to me. I swear, she could've had old Barty's head with the trouble she stirred up." He announced, smiling fondly at the reporter. "And these two gentlemen are Mr Smith," He gestured to man with a camera, "And Mr Jones, from Quidditch sports magazine." Sirius explained, more for the gathering on lookers rather than his own, since he'd suggested the reporters.
"A pleasure to finally meet you, I thought I recognized you from the trial." Harry said in greeting before giving a short kiss to the knuckles, clearly surprisingly Rita. "Nice to meet you too, Mr. Smith and Mr. Jones." He said shaking their hands.
"Black, what are you doing here?" The resident Potions Master spat as he appeared from the Great Hall, clearly investigating the disturbance and the gathering crowd.
Shooting Sirius a look that said, 'don't take the bait' before he could do anything, Harry relaxed as he saw Sirius give a begrudging nod.
"Ah, it's good to see you again Severus, the years appear to have been kind to you, unlike myself. Oh well, how have you been?" His godfather greeted, like he was meeting an old friend.
"What are you doing here?" Snape demanded coldly, ignoring Sirius' warm behaviour.
"Ah, I'm here on official business. After all, I'm a head of house now and everything, hence I need to be responsible and everything. I'm sure you understand, you yourself are a respectable gentlemen now, a world class Potions Master, and a Hogwarts Professor, how very responsible of you. But if you wait for couple minutes I'll tell you what my business is here. After that, we can catch up my old friend, over a butternut beer, what do you say? I'll buy."
Watching the exchange, he was almost cracking up with laughter; he could see Snape would have preferred drinking his own blood than anything Sirius offered.
"I'll decline." Snape growled, barely civil, realizing Sirius game as Rita's quill moved rapidly.
"Lord Black." The deputy Headmistress greeted, clearly concerned about the old foes, facing off against each other.
"Minerva, how good to see you again!" Sirius greeted with real affection, pulling the stern women into hug, getting laughter from the crowd at the older woman being lifted off her feet.
"Sirius Orion Black! Put me down this once or I'll transfigured you into a mouse!" She threaten, getting even more laughter from the gather students.
"Nice to see you too." Sirius smiled happily as he lowered the stern women before turning to the students, "She's been threatening to do that to me since my first year."
Intervening before things went too far off script Harry advised, "Maybe we should get on with the announcements, since lunch will be ending soon?" He got a suspicious look from the Potions Master, clearly sensing something was afoot.
"Thanks Pup, shall we move along Minerva? Rather than keeping the students waiting in expense?"
"Mr Black, while I'm teaching I would prefer you to address me Professor Mcgonagall." She ordered, trying to save some of her reputation amongst the students.
"Of course." His dogfather said, grinning like a madman the whole time.
Entering the Great Hall with the reporters in tow, "Students, Students, please quiet down for a moment, I'm sure you must all interested." The deputy headmistress announced, "Twins, behave yourself, I won't have you embarrassing Gryffindor in front of our guests." She stalked the tables, "Ron Weasley, chew with your mouth closed." She scolded, eyeing up any of her lions for any sign of embarrassment. "10 points from Gryffindor due to bad table manners." She said before Ron could come back with resort, preventing the table from being sprayed with food. Frankly that silenced the entire Hall extremely, making it clear the Deputy Headmistress wasn't messing about!
All too soon the Great Hall was silent as other Head of Houses joined in, quieting their own respective Houses. "Good, now that we have you attention - Ron Weasley, stop eating for one minute and listen, or I'll have you in detention for the rest of the month with Professor Snape!" McGonagall snapped, making Professor Snape's head snap around, his eyes locking on Ron's, a gaze that seemed to promise suffering.
Ron just gulped, clearly not waiting to spend the next couple weeks washing cauldrons.
"Lord Black, the floor is yours." She said after being satisfied, before shooting a final warning look at Ron and the twins.
"Thank you, Deputy Headmistress. First of all, it's nice to be back in the school, but many of you are wondering why I am here, and why these reporters are here from the Prophet, and Quidditch Magazine." He began, gesturing to the group, getting the students interest at word Quidditch. "Many of you have probably read about my wrongful imprisonment over the summer, however, the one thing that kept me going through that hell hole was the fond memories of his place, playing pranks, charming girls, playing Quidditch." He explained, smiling fondly and studiously ignoring Snape's sneering.
"The war and Azkaban stole many of my dreams, one of them was playing Quidditch professionally as a beater, with my Godson's father. However the war denied us this, denied us the chance to chase our dreams."
"So then I heard this summer that my own godson was following in his father footsteps, I rejoiced, happy that Quidditch was an attractive activity as it had always been, bringing people together, but then we, my Godson and I, heard of one House receiving new top of the line brooms, while the rest of Houses did not. This, in my opinion, is not in any way fair. It's ruins the sanctity of Hogwarts Quidditch; how many dreams will be lost because the other students have better brooms, preventing the real talent from shining through?"
Harry's eyes scanned the crowd, noticing the entire Hall, even the teachers and students that didn't care for Quidditch, were watching and listening with interest. All the while the reporters quills skimmed across their note pads. "Frankly, that's despicable. How can one know who's truly the best, when one team as such an advantage?" Sirius asked them.
"So, me and my godson decided give our own set of brooms to reset the balance between the Houses. Not just to our own houses, but all three Houses that have been wrong footed, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw." Whispering broke out amongst the students as they realized what was about to happen; the Slytherin team started to dread what was about to transpire.
"So I'm incredibly proud to announce that 21 new Nimbus 2001 Quidditch Brooms are on their way as we speak to Hogwarts, and have been entrusted into the care of your Heads of House for the use by your house Quidditch teams!" He shouted over the thunderous applause through the Hall. Gesturing with his hands for them to quieten, he continued, "Yes, I know it's exciting, can't wait to watch the games. Of course, these are not your brooms, they are your Head of House's brooms, and it's up to them to decide whether you will be allowed to use them." He said sternly, "This has led to the Potter-Black Quidditch Fund creation." He declared, getting everyone's attention.
"The purpose of this fund, is to ensure in the future that all four Houses always have similar equal quality brooms, hence this fund will replace these Quidditch brooms every 7 years so all students can try out for a position, not just ones who can afford the best brooms." He said, getting another round of applause. "It's also aimed at encouraging our national Quidditch skills to new heights, so the talented can shine! Yes, yes, thank you!" Sirius laughed at the continued applause, in his element. "I also like to announce this morning; England has been confirmed to be hosting the Quidditch world Cup!"
Harry cast a Sound Dampening Charm on himself so he didn't lose his hearing from the applause as well the cries of excitement that lasted several minutes before the Deputy Headmistress finally recovered herself and fired a Cannon Blast Charm to get everyone's attention. The students were buzzing with excitement and energy, despite the noise made by the Gryffindor Head.
"Thank you, both of you, for your generosity." She said to both of them. "Students, can you give one final a round of applause for both Lord Black and Mr. Potter for such a wonderful gift to the school."
Smiling deviously, Harry finally spoke up, "We're not done yet, Professor. May I take over, Sirius?" His announcement surprised every one of the staff aside from Madam Hooch, who was buzzing in excitement for her own moment.
"Of course Pup." Sirius graciously allowed.
Remembering his speech he had planned in advance for this moment, "Yes, now you may be wondering what I might have to add, and I'll admit it's not as exciting, but it's just as important." Harry announced, capturing their attention once more.
"An additional sub-fund has been created as well for the purpose of maintaining the Quidditch pitch and the training brooms for first years, ensuring future students have safe brooms to use to help them learn how to fly. After all, I remember last year how one of brooms failed in midflight, putting a year mate in the hospital wing. I believe something similar happen this year as well. Hence this fund's purpose is to ensure good, safe brooms for students to learn on. This fund will also be used to make sure the players, both starters and reserves can play with working and top of the line pads, to prevent any future accidents and possible deaths." He explained getting a respectable a round of applause.
"Thank you, I hope this will encourage students who've had bad past experiences with flying to reconsider learning with safer model brooms. After all, I was raised with my Muggle relatives following my parents deaths, but I remember that feeling of joy then I first flew on a broom, the freedom it offered, it was magical. I believe that it's an important part of British magical culture, and should be encourage. Not only because it's great fun, but because it's also a part of our history as witches and wizards. I hope this will encourage first generation Magicals to take learning to fly more serious now that they have proper brooms to learn with, not ones from 1930." He eyed Hermione momentarily, since she'd been big critic of the school brooms. She seemed interested in the offer, and he could safely say she would at least give flying another try.
"Once again, thank you for your time." He finished, allowing the Hall to once again slip into wild applause.
"You did good, pup." Sirius whispered, "Rita looks like she wants to eat you up."
"Thanks." He replied, ignoring the comment about Rita for now. "How did you find out about the Quidditch World Cup?" He inquired, since he hadn't heard about it yet.
"Well, since I got out, I've naturally been catching up with friends from school and my days as an Auror, plus from the Order." he said, the last part in near whisper, "One of them just happens to be a part of the team campaigning for the right to host it. Well, there's a party tonight, I just happen to be her escort for it."
"Ah, so you're back in game already, you old dog!" He said cheerfully, quite happy that his Godfather was starting to reach out more. "When do I meet her? Is she the next Mrs Black?
Sirius chuckled nervously, "Hold your horses! I'm just escorting her, it's not a date or anything." He protested.
Snorting at the older man Harry gave him an amused look, "Yeah, right, I know all about your youth. Now I need to talk to Mrs. Skeeter, I think she wants me to do an interview with her." He explained before looking around the Hall, seeing the reporter already talking with groups of students. Mr. Jones himself was talking with the gathered staff, aside from Snape, who appeared to be missing, no doubt reporting in to the Headmaster.
Midnight Gold
Once again reading the Thursday and Friday Prophet articles of the high profile event he'd missed within his own school, He felt awfully bitter over the whole ordeal. Not that it affected his plans, it would just have been a good chance at some good publicity. After several months of being on the negative end of it, after the Professor Quirrell incident and the Lord Black scandal. Even a month later, he was still being hounded by Madam Bones for answers.
Sipping at his tea, he reread the articles over the last couple days events. With Sirius announcing the World Cup to the general public a whole day prior to Ludo Bagman and Barty Crouch's planned announcement, he unintentionally stole their moment in the headlines.
At least the school was in a buzzing mood, filled with excitement that the brooms had arrived. However he would have to talk with the staff this weekend, to reminded them to tell him of such dealings with other lords and ladies in the future.
Not that he could blame them for wanting to readdress the balance on the Quidditch field, he just didn't like finding out about such events by fire place calls. After all, he was the Headmaster, and Hogwarts was his dominion, his realm. He didn't like surprises happening inside his home. Plus it was just good practice, to keep the politicians away from the place so they couldn't influence and corrupt young minds, or pulls them into the political games and dramas before they were old enough to understand the consequences of their actions.
At least this one could be worked to his advantage, he would write a letter of thanks to Sirius and Harry, as well give them a token of gratitude for their support of the school. After all, the funds could last for several decades, and that extra money would free up the schools own funds for other projects, such as maintaining the greenhouses. Maybe an expansion project?
How many centuries had it been since the greenhouses had been properly replaced and redeveloped? Plus, hopefully the Prophet's articles would encourage other families to give donations to the school's maintenance. After all, none of them would want to be outclassed by another family.
"Come in, Severus." He called, his wards triggering and confirming someone was at the door, and since he had summoned the Potion's Professor upon his return, it was easy to guess who it would be.
"Albus." The petty man greeted.
"Severus, do you have a copy of the memory of Wednesday?" He asked.
"Here, just as you requested." He replied, throwing the vial to him, which he caught easily with his off hand.
"Thank you, I would like to review it." He stated before putting the vial down on the desk, safely within sight. "Have you heard any more about Lucius' scheme?"
"Yes, the plot is in play. We just have to wait." The younger man replied. "What are we going to do about Potter and Black? You planned to give new brooms yourself next year to readdress the balance."
"Nothing for moment." He stated, cleaning his glasses, "I need to watch for a bit, and try to understand what's going on. Besides, Lucius is a greater concern, and Sirius is just being Sirius, it just means the teams will be even this year. Even if I planned for Gryffindor to lose this year so my gift would have more of an impact. Besides, this year was all about undermining Neville and showing him that public can and will shift rapidly. Harry gaining some line light achieves this as well, and will help deflate Neville's ego and counter his popularity if there's another 'hero' on the board." He explained sagely, not really sure what to do with the Potter boy.
"Besides from the chat I had with Remus, he and Sirius have gone on a holiday for couple of mouths by now, coming back just before the Christmas break. Just to warn you, I'm thinking of inviting Remus to teach here next year, either as DADA teacher or as the Professor for Magical Creatures, both of which will need replacements come next year. Hopefully, he will be able to help cultivate a relationship with Mr. Potter and Sirius. I am not on the best of terms with them at the moment."
"Really Albus, a werewolf for a teacher? What are you thinking?"
"Neville needs to learn that not all creatures such as werewolves are evil. Dangerous yes, but not Evil. Besides, both of us both know Remus is one of the safest werewolves around; he's never bitten a soul. You worry too much, it will make you go grey before your time." He scolded playfully, "The students also need a capable DADA teacher, and Remus is a safe bet, even with his condition he scored a solid 'O' in the subject, consistently scoring second is his year, only topped by Lily, as well O's in 5 other subjects.
Elsewhere in the Castle
Making his way back to the Ravenclaw Common Room, having spent the last 5 hours hidden way in the Potions Lab so he could get some work done without being harassed by the crowds and groups of students wanting to thank him. It made him feel good, yes, but at same time he'd always preferred his own company rather than having large groups of people following him around all time.
It was distracting.
However the groups did provide an effective shield for any pranks, and provided him with an escort around the school protecting him from direct reprisal from the Slytherin Quidditch team. Draco seemed to be out for blood, now far more concerned with him than Longbottom, but he doubted it last long; as soon as Neville did something or said something, he would be forgotten about.
Seeing a flicker of a shadow out of corner of his eye, he shifted into a ready stance as he continued his journey. He felt his primal sixth sense flare up; that gut feeling telling him that something was wrong, something was watching him, stalking him.
Scanning the shadows, unable to find anything amiss, even the tell-tell signs of a disillusionment charm, he carried on. The feeling persisted, and Harry wondered if it was group of Slytherins attempting to ambush him like Daphne had forewarned.
"Avada Kedavra!"
Chapter of End
Author Note: Yea I'm evil, another cliff hanger for you guys! Can you guess who it is? I said there would be a plot twist, and here it is. I just thought it be good to spice up the second year by adding another element.
Yeah, I know, bad joke but hey, what can you do... I hope you like the prank he played on Tonks.
Addition Note: To the reviewer Coldblue who clearly his my biggest fan, based on the number reviews he leaves, whilst I am grateful for your support and feedback. You have been making the same suggestions since the start of Harry's second year. I'm fine with suggestions, but you left 6 reviews by yourself on suggestions since chapter 23... Yes I have read them and there are interesting points what I have taken into consideration.
So please, cut back on the suggestions, and Pm me them to me instead. Since you posting them on reviews means first anyone could read them, and this leads to possible spoilers if I decide to use them, it also seems I'm stealing your ideas.
I already have my own plans for this year. I've been dropping hints throughout my story to some of your questions.