—Dance of Death 36—

In the last chapter, Harry came to Hogwarts and began taking his exams. Harry made subtle threats to Dolores Umbridge resulting in the woman becoming nervous and afraid of what Harry would do when he turned seventeen. Her concern was that Harry would ruin her with the declaration of a Blood Feud. She was determined to prevent this and was looking for an opportunity to get Harry alone. Harry had been taunting her at every opportunity and he planned to seek revenge for Hedwig's death. Keeping her on edge was part of his plan to goad her into making a mistake.

Harry received a Grimoire from Penelope McKinnon, an elderly woman that knew his mother. The Grimoire expanded his knowledge considerably in both Battle magic and Divination. Later, while attending Slughorn's party with the elderly woman, Harry made sure he was overheard by one of the Carrow twins regarding an after-OWL party he was hosting.

He had had a particularly good first week and was certain that he had five OWLs – the requirement for staying in the wizarding world. The second week started exceptionally well with his Potions exam, but he struggled with his Care of Magical Creatures exam. Knowing how to fight and kill creatures was not the same as knowing how to care for them. The Divination exam resulted in a disturbing vision triggered by an old water-damaged journal. Harry experienced the final moments of a wizard investigating the island of Azkaban in the fifteenth century. This is where we pick up.

Important Note: Umbridge suffers a terrible fate and it is quite violent. I have marked the section with a warning in bold lettering so any readers who do not wish to read it can avoid the violence. I referenced the scene so much in Casting Shadows I felt I had to provide enough of the details to close the loop between the stories. I do not plan to write anything like the details of what happens to Umbridge in any of my fictions in the future.

—DoD—

I do not own Harry Potter or any of the characters – they belong to JKRowling.

FASA owns the Earthdawn setting which has influenced many of the ideas in my stories. The Ritual of Thorns and Oakheart are two examples.

—DoD—

Special thanks to my Beta Reader, 'Just William' for the excellent feedback and diligent work in making the story better.

Chapter 35: Comeuppance part 3 – the Finale

—DoD—

Hogwarts Infirmary

June 19 Wednesday

3:30PM

Harry had been checked over by Madam Pomfrey when Andromeda, Mr. Felder, Mr. Oppenheimer, and Albus Dumbledore came into the infirmary. Great. At least he had managed a shower and didn't smell like a fish. Andromeda approached first.

"Harry, what on earth happened?" His guardian was obviously upset. It's not every day a person almost drowns during an examination.

"My divination practical didn't go very well." Looking over at the man who administered his practical, Harry added, "I'm sorry for what I said Mr. Oppenheimer. That was a… traumatic reading."

Dumbledore calmly said, "Perhaps it would help if you started at the beginning."

Harry relayed everything he could remember. He left nothing out. Apparently, when he leapt overboard, he also leapt out of his chair…

Mr. Felder turned to Mr. Oppenheimer. "May I see this book?"

Mr. Oppenheimer shook his head, "I'm afraid that journal is no longer available for public viewing." Turning to Harry, he asked, "Mr. Potter… is there anything you can tell us about the lock that was placed on the ink?"

"The charm only activated it, the ink itself was the source. May I see the book again?"

Mr. Oppenheimer winced. It was clear to everyone that he was suddenly very protective of the journal. "Please be careful, Mr. Potter." With great reluctance, he extracted it from his briefcase.

Harry smirked at him. He reinforced his occlumency and intentionally closed himself off. No repeat performance here… He gently took the book and opened it. He focused all his perception and began scanning the book across multiple levels of magic. Nope. Nothing. This was a unique charm.

"May I please have my wand, Headmaster?" He directed the request to his headmaster. It still irritated him that he had to ask.

Albus Dumbledore produced Harry's wand from his sleeve. Harry felt somewhat violated. Knowing that Dumbledore was carrying around his wand while denying Harry access.

"I took the liberty of retrieving your wand from Madam Marchbanks before coming here, Mr. Potter." Apparently, he had picked up on Harry's irritation.

Harry began trying to replicate the charm from his vision. On the fourth try, something 'clicked'. He peered down and saw threads. They were gossamer thin and transparent, but they were now ever-so-lightly tied to his wand. Harry smiled; it was nice to use old tricks. This was his element… he was a Curse-Breaker again. Doing what he loved most. Revealing the secrets of the past and rescuing them from obscurity.

He began un-weaving the security and opening the ink… He lost the threads twice and had to repeat the process, but on the third try… the pages began to fill back up with text. Harry looked over at Andromeda.

"That's why I love curse-breaking, mum. That's what makes me happiest. Finding and saving lost knowledge from the depths of oblivion… It's like having a time machine." Harry handed the book back to Mr. Oppenheimer. He was so happy he was unable to contain it. He had forgotten how good it felt to solve an arcane puzzle.

Mr. Oppenheimer delicately took the book back. "Mr. Potter, you have performed a great service for Magical Britain. Thank you." He looked at the book. "We assumed it was an empty journal… that the original was lost…"

Harry had other questions, but they didn't really matter. He was reminded that OWLs and NEWTs scores didn't really matter much. He had already begun his career in Curse Breaking. He did have one question he wanted answered.

"Mr. Oppenheimer, can I assume I passed my practical?" It would be a shame if he went through all that and still failed.

"Mr. Potter, you had a Psychometric vision with a manifestation during a Divination exam. You used a vision to solve a riddle that was hundreds of years old. What do you think?" Harry noted the amused look on his face again. Mr. Oppenheimer apparently had a sarcastic sense of humour. Harry kind of liked the man.

Harry looked puzzled. "Manifestation…?"

Mr. Oppenheimer smiled, "You nearly drowned in it."

Harry realised the sea water he was drenched in was from his own magic interacting with his vision… yeah, it was probably impressive. If only he hadn't slipped in his own vomit.

Harry smiled, "Right… well, this has been fun. Unfortunately, I have my Arithmancy exam in twenty minutes."

Harry looked at Andromeda and noticed how happy she suddenly seemed. She was just looking at him so… affectionately? Dumbledore seemed especially 'twinkly' as well. What the hell had he said to cause this? At least Mr. Felder seemed focused and mistrustful. Harry gave him a nod and a smile. Consistency was important.

Harry had Dobby bring him clothes that didn't smell like he had dragged them under a ship and prepared for his Arithmancy exam. Andromeda helped him adjust his bag after he had dressed. She also applied a breath freshener and scented up his hair with a baby powdery charm.

After Harry left, Andromeda realised that Harry had no idea he had called her mum. Everyone else heard it and for a moment, she was exceptionally proud. It fit. Then she noticed Albus twinkling at her.

Dumbledore happily said, "It appears, you've been an incredibly good influence on Mr. Potter. He seems to have quite a future as a Curse-Breaker. I'm happy for both of you Mrs. Tonks. It's not often an opportunity to help heal someone like Harry comes along."

Mr. Oppenheimer wasn't sure what the Headmaster was getting at, but that's the way Dumbledore was. Riddles and hints. "Lady Black. Your son has a gift. I would love to help him develop it over the summer… Think it over and let me know."

Andromeda gave the man a curious glance. "I'm sorry, have we met?"

"Fritz Oppenheimer. I'm one of the ICW certified test evaluators. I'm a specialist in Prophetic Interpretation. He handed her his personal calling card."

Albus Dumbledore solemnly looked over his half frame glasses. "You are more than that, Unspeakable Oppenheimer." Letting that sink in, he added, "And there will be no recruitment at Hogwarts."

Mr. Oppenheimer seemed slightly irritated at Dumbledore's comment. "I have no desire to recruit a fifteen-year-old. Mr. Potter deserves a chance of a family before considering a career in research."

Dumbledore was still smiling. "Oh, but you do far more than research… The choice to utilise your tutorial services or not will be left up to Lady Black and her esteemed solicitor. I fear I must attend other duties now." The headmaster then slowly turned and left the Infirmary.

Andromeda had been listening intently. "Mr. Oppenheimer, I'll… consider your offer. We'll be in touch either way."

Harry had no issues with the afternoon Arithmancy exam and felt certain of at least an 'E' and possibly an 'O'. He also had a little down time between the Arithmancy exam and last night's Astronomy practical. Draco heard about the vision and apparently Lavender and Parvati were telling everyone they had 'opened Harry's third eye'. He didn't want to answer any questions, so he and Draco showed up to the Astronomy practical at the last minute. He'd see them tomorrow. Harry was sure of a passing score on the practical, but he knew he didn't perform anywhere near as well as Draco. He had no intention of getting a NEWT in Astronomy, so an 'Acceptable' would suffice. The practical ended at two in the morning and he rushed off. He could tell both Lavender and Parvati wanted to talk to him, but he had another task before he could sleep.

He scouted two abandoned classrooms with sizable cupboards. Both were well positioned and sufficient for his purposes. One was near the Theatre and the other near a sublevel corridor leading away from the theatre.

—DoD—

Hogwarts

June 20, 1996

Thursday 9AM

Harry woke up and prepared for his day after only five hours of sleep. He squirmed out of bed and made sure his Familiar was asleep. Staggering into the bathroom, he began his morning ritual and enjoyed a long hot shower.

The History of Magic exam was today at ten. He wanted to have a leisurely breakfast. Tonight, was the night he planned for the payback. Harry dressed and waited on Draco. He summoned Dobby and left his Familiar in the house elf's able hands. The girls were still sleeping. He knew Dobby could get her away if anyone threatened…

Draco came out dressed and ready. Both teens were tired.

"Ready for breakfast, Draco?"

"Coffee would be nice."

Harry checked the time. "Katie and McLaggen are probably downstairs now."

—DoD—

The Great Hall

June 20 Thursday

9AM

In the Great Hall, Harry was greeted by Lavender and Parvati "Harry! What was it like?" He wasn't sure which had asked, they were both talking. Katie was enjoying this.

"What?"

Parvati was grinning, "You opened your third eye, Harry! We're so proud of you."

Lavender added proudly, "We plan to train others now, too." She was grinning at him as well.

Harry wasn't sure what to say. "Thanks…"

McLaggen had been smirking all morning. He chose that moment to hand Harry today's Prophet.

"Harry Potter has Prophetic Vision"

Details on page 4

Skimming through the article, he noticed that both Parvati and Lavender are mentioned as his tutors. It went on to sensationalise the event with the test lab being flooded and described him with glowing eyes and speaking in strange languages. There were questions around possession and channelling. Typical Prophet… Making a mountain out of a mole hill. Harry then realised that he really didn't know what happened while he was having his vision.

Harry looked at the Divination Duo. "So... You guys were both there. What did it look like?"

Both Lavender and Parvati started talking at the same time. Harry was getting used to this kind of speech. First the Weasley twins, then his Familiar. At least there weren't three of them. Speaking of twins, he saw Padma off to the side. She looked amused.

"Well, first you were kind of struggling…"

"With the cards."

"Cards may not be your thing, Harry…"

"You said 'Ummm' a lot. You can't do that with Tarot cards."

"Everyone will think you're just faking it."

"Were you?"

"Then you picked up that book and your eyes started glowing."

"You started talking, but it was a foreign language."

"Then you leapt out of your chair…"

"When you hit the ground, there was a kind of splash and you were all wet."

"…Salt Water…"

"I even got some on me!"

"But it wasn't as bad as the Prophet said…"

"People tried to help, but the thorns."

"Your test administrator told everyone not to touch you."

"Someone sent for the nurse…"

"You were coughing up water."

"We were all so shocked…"

"Then you started yelling at your test coordinator…"

"I hope he doesn't hold it against you."

"And you left."

"It was amazing."

Harry realised he was getting a number of 'looks' from the different tables. Lavender and Parvati were bubbly and a little flighty, but they were fun and energetic. People might not respect them, but everyone seemed to like them, and it was clear why. They were both full of life and enthusiasm, Harry found it hard to be unhappy in their presence. Parvati was really smart, and Lavender wasn't dumb. They were both nice and… well, pretty. Harry had heard Hermione and Ginny groan about the 'Divination Duo'. They were never overtly cruel, but they didn't seem to think much of the pair. He was beginning to wonder if they might be a little… jealous?

Harry smiled. "Well, I just did what you guys showed me. You really know your Divination."

They beamed with pride.

Harry whispered, "Hey, are you guys coming to my party tonight?"

They looked at each other and smiled. Lavender said, "Absolutely." Both girls were proud.

Harry smiled. "Good. Let's get breakfast before the History of Magic exam. Maybe you guys can help me plan it?"

Parvati liked the idea. "Yes. After lunch we can scout out the theatre."

Lavender smiled and said, "We're experts on Feng Shui."

—DoD—

Dolores Umbridge's Office

June 20 Thursday

11AM

Dolores Umbridge sat calmly in her office. She was looking forward to this evening. The Carrow twins had reported that Harry Potter would be holding a party at 9PM tonight. He might be exempt from the Educational Decrees, but the other party goers were not. Dolores now knew where the party would be and when it would be. She planned to give the students thirty minutes to settle in and then she would lead her Inquisitors to apprehend them all.

After Potter's friends were taken into custody, he would be left alone. Alone with a few of her most favoured Inquisitors. She would bring Greengrass, Pucey, and Bulstrode along to escort the Hogwarts students away, then her loyal Inquisitors would ensure Potter never reached his majority. And this time, there would no stairs involved to slow them down. Compared to the Carrow sisters, the Dementors she had sent would be kind and gentle.

She had planned to sack that damn Hagrid, but Potter was now her primary focus. Perhaps tomorrow…

—DoD—

Hogwarts West Theatre

June 20 Thursday

2PM

After completing his History of Magic examination, Harry was evaluating the old theatre. It had been closed years ago, during his parent's tenure, following a terrible scandal where the leads were cursed and poisoned by their understudies. Over the years, it had gotten so bad that only the most driven actors and actresses would even try out for a desired part. Others would decline for fear of bodily harm. Apparently, aspiring actors and actresses could be quite cutthroat when they were passionate about a part. It unofficially became known as the 'Bezoar Theatre', a nickname the Marauders came up with that seemed to stick.

Pipsey, Winky, and Dobby had been busy preparing the theatre for the party. Lavender and Parvati were deciding where to place the tables and the punch bowl. Katie and McLaggen were just looking around. Harry approached the sixth-year prefects. "So, what do you think?"

Katie looked about a moment, "I like it! Funny how we've never had a play in the six years I've been here." She winked at him as she added, "Watch out for snoggers in the balcony."

Harry looked up and realised he needed to find a way to block that off. It could ruin everything. He'd have a word with Dobby and see if the area could be filled with old stage props. Yeah, that'd do it. The theatre was perfect. It had a set of moderate Repulsion Wards on it, but they were easy enough to remove. No alarm Ward was attached…

Harry noticed Cormac looking about. "Three exits. I'd feel better with four, but three works."

Harry appreciated the often-arrogant teen's assessment - find the exits first. He must have been paying attention to the notes Harry had sent to Hermione's group. Maybe there was hope for him.

Harry pointed to two areas of the stage. "There are actually five. I chose this site for the hidden trap doors under the stage."

He took Katie and McLaggen to the trap doors. "If we get raided, we use these two trap doors. They each lead to different hallways one level below the theatre. It's a straight shot from either corridor to the stairs leading to the Great Hall. A nice public area."

Harry walked both prefects through the sub-level corridors, clearing cobwebs as he went. He wanted them to be able to guide the students through if Umbridge and her Inquisitors showed up. Well, not 'if', when Umbridge and her Inquisitors show up. The corridors were filthy, but it would work. Thank Merlin for the Marauders map or he never would have found them.

—DoD—

Hogwarts

Near the Theatre

June 20 Thursday

6PM

Harry and Draco snuck out of the Home School dorms and walked the area around the theatre. Harry was under the 'Anonymous' charm and Draco was lookout. He had just enchanted the cupboard in a room at the end of a hall near the theatre. He was using an Ancient Illusionist spell that linked doorways allowing point to point travel. It was like the way a Vanishing Cabinet worked, but with a limited range and duration. The ancient Illusionists designed the foundations of the magic used in vanishing cabinets, Switching charms, and even the Fidelius charm. When he was finished, he borrowed Draco's wand and covered the closet with a glamour.

"There. It's now linked to the classroom cupboard we enchanted earlier. The one near the Great Hall."

Draco took back his wand and asked, "Why didn't you use my wand to link the cupboards?"

"Two reasons. First, the spell hasn't been converted for wand use. I only know how to cast it with a spell matrix. Secondly, I'm sure someone will examine your wand when all the dust settles. If you don't 'clear' it, it will only reinforce our innocence."

Draco realised Harry was right. But he was still nervous. "Are you sure you're up to this? It's a huge risk with no backup."

Harry ran his hand through his hair and cut himself on a thorn. "No one else can do it. Haven't you noticed how nervous people are around those Inquisitors? Especially the witches… Then there's Hedwig."

Draco knew Harry wasn't going to let this go. First his Familiar… then the Dementors. Now they were seeing how nervous people were around Umbridge's thugs. Harry was ready to strike back and Draco didn't blame him. It was the magnitude of the plans that worried him. Harry was a risk taker of epic proportions. Risk aside, one of the most important aspects of the plan was for Harry to have witnesses. But he'd have to swallow his pride for that.

"Harry, can you be civil to the other students at your party? This'll be the first time you've interacted with them since the tournament." Draco hastily added, "You can't do the 'dead face' or everyone will assume you're out to get them."

Harry was quiet for a moment. "I'll just have to fake it. It would a lot be easier if you were there. I'm still pissed. Most of the people at the party…"

"You know I can't be there. It's just not possible. I wish it were, but it's not." Draco knew he'd be on edge all night.

"Yeah, I know. I'll ask Katie and Hermione to help with the people I can't be around without losing it."

"If you have second thoughts, just leave with everyone else. You don't have to be a hero." Even Granger probably wouldn't agree to this dangerous plan. Especially given that someone was going to get hurt.

Harry didn't say anything. He didn't want to admit how nervous he was. So many things could go wrong… but it had to be done. All the pieces were in place.

Harry looked over at his one-time rival turned ally. "Let's head back. I need to talk to Mione."

—DoD—

Hogwarts Library

June 20 Thursday

7PM

Hermione was sitting with Cedric Diggory. The two had become friends over the course of the year working on the Defence curriculum. This was a tough conversation. She knew the entire Defence group planned to attend Harry's party, she just needed to pass on Harry's request. Cedric was easy, but not when the subject was Harry Potter. Especially not when it involved Cedric's girlfriend, Cho Chang. There was a great deal of pain and guilt there.

Hermione had just asked Cedric to talk to Cho, Hannah, and Susan. They needed to be discouraged from approaching Harry. He had confessed at dinner that he just couldn't handle it.

Cedric looked tense. "I get it, alright? Well… not completely. I wish he would swallow his pride and just accept Cho's apology." Cedric then asked, "And what's up with Susan and Hannah? The never did anything to him. Nothing excessive."

Hermione hated putting Cedric through this, but Harry was her first friend. Her best friend. "He thinks Hannah was the one who cursed him in the courtyard last year." Cedric flinched. He remembered that. Hermione continued. "He also thinks Susan convinced her aunt to cover it up. He apparently liked Susan, so it really stung. I don't know if he liked Susan as just a friend or if he liked her more… but he was crushed when she wore the button. And convinced her aunt to look the other way."

Cedric hadn't heard this, but it made sense. Both Hannah and Susan had seemed… off when Harry's name came up. It fit.

Cedric sat back. "I didn't know. But I doubt she intended it to be so bad. Or for the others to join in. Would you really send her to Azkaban over that?"

Cedric asked the question, but he still remembered the way Harry had been cured repeatedly until those younger Slytherins stepped in. He was about to step in himself, but he hesitated. Only for a minute… And three Slytherins did the right thing while a courtyard full of Hufflepuffs looked the other way. It was a defining moment and he had come up lacking. From that day forward, he swore he'd never be that weak again.

Hermione saw her friend was lost in thought. "Harry's trying to re-integrate… Everyone needs to just act casual. Don't overdo it."

"But Hermione, how can he get past Draco making and distributing the buttons, but not the people wearing it? Draco was the worst. Now they're thick as thieves… It goes against all logic."

Hermione had similar thoughts, but she understood how Harry had explained it. "Cedric, it wasn't really the buttons, it was the betrayal. Knowing everyone was against you. All right after he was kicked out of Gryffindor. He expected that of Draco."

Cedric seemed to make the connection. "That… makes a lot of sense. But what about Ron? He was one of the worst betrayals, but Harry seems alright around Ron…"

"Cedric, Harry tolerates Ron because he's dating Ron's sister and is apprenticed to his brother." Sadly, she admitted, "Between you and me, it still eats at him

Cedric sadly confessed, "I wish Harry would just grow up and let it go."

Hermione shared her hopes, "He will, Cedric… He just needs time. Last year was like nothing I've ever seen. It's a lot to ask anyone to get over." She squeezed Cedric's shoulder. "Give it time. If he comes back next year, maybe we can all work it out. But not tonight."

Cedric took a breath and raised his eyebrows. "I'll talk to them."

Hermione decided to throw Cedric a bone. "If it makes any difference, Harry actually doesn't want to exclude anyone. He specifically wanted me to make sure they knew they were invited… but not to seek absolution."

Cedric smiled a bit at that. "That's… actually good to hear."

—DoD—

Hogwarts

West Theatre

June 20 Thursday

9PM

The party in the theatre was going brilliantly. Harry brought a few of the less destructive fireworks and had Hermione cast sound suppression and air filtering charms on the area. Ron helped set them off while the party goers congregated on the stage. Harry wanted to use the mild ones before Umbridge got there. It was odd watching the light show from the stage but fitting for the messed-up year he had been through. Pipsey and Winky were keeping the food on the tables stocked up. Apparently, the word had gotten out and there were a lot of students there. It was most of the non-Slytherin OWL students and over half of the NEWT students. Both Hogwarts and Home-Schooled students. It was amazing how fast word of a party travelled.

Harry had to swallow his pride and his irritation more than once around the Gryffindor students… and the Hufflepuffs. But he needed them here at the party for his plans to work. Hermione had done her job and neither Cho, Susan, nor Hannah approached him. Cho sent him some annoyingly despondent looks, but he ignored her. Most people tread lightly around him… that made it easier. It was probably guilty conscience on their part, but it could have been the thorns.

Lavender and Parvati, on the other hand, didn't hold back around him at all. They were flittering around him acting like they were his best friends. At first Harry bristled, but they were popular for a reason… They also gave him an 'out' when other students worked up the courage to ask about the vision he had. Harry started referring those people to 'his tutors'. The 'Divination Duo' loved it and he got a break.

Padma cornered him during the fireworks finale. "Hi, Harry. It looks like you're the new master of pyrotechnics." Padma was cool. Far less energetic than her twin, but wittier and more sarcastic… and subtle enough to keep you guessing.

Harry smirked. "Only the smaller ones. The big ones are yet to come… tomorrow, maybe." Harry found he enjoyed her company.

Padma grinned and said, "I can't wait… But for now, I was wondering if you've had any prophetic visions about the punch being spiked."

The fireworks finale died off and students started cheering.

Harry looked at her a moment and chuckled. "My third eye is predicting that many punch drinkers will stagger about and insert their foot into their mouth before the night is over…" He had seen Seamus and Dean spiking the punch twenty minutes ago.

Padma just smiled even brighter, "Nice. See you around, Harry." She then left to get punch with a 'punch'. As Harry watched her leave, he wondered… Was she flirting?

Harry had been glancing at the map every few minutes. Dumbledore had left the castle, most of the other teachers were in their quarters. He was watching Umbridge. He knew Umbridge and her Inquisitors thought the party was beginning at 9PM. He started watching at 8:45 and the fireworks was a good distraction. He was becoming obsessed with watching for Umbridge and her followers - they would show up soon enough.

Five minutes after Padma walked off, he saw activity around Umbridge and her thugs. They were gathering near the Transfiguration classroom. Showtime.

Harry activated a Ward Stone that resulted in the lights suddenly starting to blink for thirty seconds. This was the Alarm he had Hermione set up. A few students ran out the side entrances… Katie and McLaggen immediately began helping students get through the trap doors on the stage floor. They had plenty of time. Slowly, he moved out of the commotion and stood off to the side. Harry activated a spell he had placed in a matrix and disillusioned himself. He saw a few people looking around for him, but after a bit, they assumed he had left. Hermione looked the longest, before climbing down through one of the trap doors. Katie was the last to leave, checking to make sure no one was left behind.

As both trap doors shut, Harry heard the students fading away. He pulled up a chair, cancelled his disillusionment, and carefully sat on it. He didn't want to lose his enchanted mat, so he just let the thorns scrape and tear the upholstery. And he waited… but he didn't have to wait long.

—DoD—

Professor Umbridge entered the Theatre that had been the scene of a party. There were cups and plates scattered about. Four tables held plenty of food which had to have come from the kitchen… She would personally present any elves that supplied food to this party with clothes. Judging by the leftovers and rubbish, this had obviously been a highly successful party. There must have been an advance warning, as there was only one student left at the scene. Harry Potter sat in the centre of the stage, smiling at her as she entered with her Inquisitors.

The boy must have thought he was untouchable… Here was her target, all alone and with a smile on his face. It was like a gift from Merlin. He truly had no idea what was about to happen. And because everyone had left, she didn't even have to separate him from the other students.

"Mr. Potter, it seems you've been quite busy. Have all your friends deserted you?"

The smarmy little Bastard looked at her and shrugged. "Parties always end sometime."

Most of her Inquisitors were climbing up the stairs on either side of the stage, wands in hand. Four had apparently left… good, they were a poor fit for what was to come. That left eight of her most reliable Inquisitors.

Dolores transfigured a few of the chairs into a set of stairs and a small platform about two feet higher than the stage. She refused to look up at Potter. With satisfaction, she climbed the stairs and stood on the platform looking down at Potter. Her platform was directly in front of the boy, about three feet from the stage he was seated on. She wanted to see the look on his face when he realised he was trapped.

Dolores cast a simple 'Homenum Revelio' to ensure no one else was in the theatre. She also scanned it for paintings… none where there. With a smile, she realised she had him right where she wanted him. No witnesses. All alone.

Smiling with a saccharinely sweet smile, she addressed her victim. "Mr. Potter, whatever will we do with you? Do you have any idea what a 'thorn' in my shoe you have become?" Dolores enjoyed her little pun. By all reports, his condition was quite painful.

The boy looked inquisitively at her. "I think there's been a mistake. I'm not Harry Potter."

Dolores chuckled, "And who do you think you are?"

Potter looked up at her and said, "I'm Dolores Umbridge."

The Inquisitors around him started laughing.

Dolores laughed and shook her head. "But how can that be? You see, I'm Dolores Umbridge, and there's only one of me."

The boy suddenly adopted a near panicked look. "No! I'M Dolores Umbridge!" He suddenly looked around at the Inquisitors. They seemed amused.

"Oh, Mr. Potter. Such a fanciful imagination." It was time to end this. "I'm afraid I'll have to leave you with your friends. To see you safely back to your dorm now."

The boy suddenly yelled out, "WAIT!"

He was panicking. She would enjoy this. "Yes, Mr. Potter? Any… final words?"

She stared into his brilliant green eyes. They truly were striking. So entrancing. So full of… something. She could get lost in those eyes…

He called out, "I'm Dolores Umbridge!"

Dolores' world suddenly spun in a violent surge of vertigo. She had the sensation of falling into those eyes… Suddenly, she was sitting on the stage. Her inquisitors were all around her. Staring down at her from the platform she had transfigured was… a mirror image of herself.

"Wait", she cried. "I'm Dolores Umbridge." She raised her wand preparing to cast a 'finite' to end this charade.

One of her Inquisitors shouted, "Expelliarmus", and her wand flew across the stage.

Her mirror image was staring at her. Smiling.

"Well, Dolores", her mirror image said her name mirthfully and mockingly. "I'll bid you adieu. Oh, one last thing… think about… Hedwig." The inquisitors were chuckling.

She now knew exactly who that was.

She began screaming, "I'm Dolores Umbridge!" She pointed at her imposter, "That's Harry Potter! I'm Dolores Umbridge!" She was near panicked. She had to get through to her followers… Harry Potter was in her form and was leaving the Theatre.

One of her Inquisitors said, "Petrificus Totalis!" She was suddenly unable to move or speak. She remembered why she had chosen these students to be her Inquisitors. They were vicious and sadistic. No, not all… a few were chosen for their family connections. If she could get their attention… Greengrass, Parkinson, Pucey, Bulstrode… She could only move her eyes… they weren't here. The four who left… no… oh, please… no…

As the inquisitors moved in, Dolores Umbridge thought of Harry Potters parting words. 'Hedwig'. This was his revenge… He had outmanoeuvred her… Now her nervousness was shifting to terror… She had a good idea of what was to come. For the first time in years, Dolores Umbridge began to pray.

—DoD—

Harry made his way to the room at the end of the hall with the linked cupboard. And Draco had practiced the 'Form Exchange' charm until Harry had it down. It was a complex spell and to Harry's knowledge hadn't been used in centuries. With eye contact and focused concentration, the caster switches places with the target in a contest of wills. As they switched, both were then covered with an illusion giving the appearance of the individual they were switching with. Harry didn't enjoy 'falling' into Umbridge's eyes, but worse things have happened.

The spell wasn't fool proof. A simple 'finite' charm would erase the illusion, and Umbridge almost accomplished that… But one of her own Inquisitors took care of the situation. Harry pulled out the Marauder's Map and noted everyone's position. The Inquisitors appeared to be surrounding Umbridge, likely hexing her. The four Inquisitors who left had congregated for a few moments and one split off. Daphne Greengrass was moving quickly toward the Dungeons but had quite a way to go. Parkinson, Pucey, and Bulstrode were heading the same way, but much slower.

The two main groups of students from the party that exited through the trap doors were winding about in the sub level, but not quickly. They were trying to be quiet and unobtrusive. He had perhaps fifteen minutes before they reached the area near his other linked cupboard. Daphne Greengrass was almost certainly going to get Snape… That would take time. The dungeons were far away, and the halls were mostly deserted. He disillusioned himself once more and just watched. Timing was critical.

Harry noted that some of the Inquisitors were gathered around Umbridge, but a few had moved to the food tables. Apparently, they were a bit peckish…

—DoD—

************Violence Warning************

I'm inserting this in so you can skip ahead to the section marked as the end of the violence warning.

Dolores Umbridge was no longer paralysed, but she was stretched out face down on the floor. It was some version of the Incarcerous spell, but it was designed to stretch the victim as if they were on the rack. Her clothes were painfully burned right off her body. She struggled to breathe, let alone scream. Some of the Inquisitors were using minor curses to inflict painful burns and small, but brutal wounds all over her… it was more painful than anything she had ever experienced… and they were just getting started.

One of her Inquisitors said, "We need to work fast. Don't Fuck around. We have fifteen minutes… maybe less." It sounded like Warrington. "No Unforgivable Curses, it might alert Dumbledore. Everything else is fair game… Potter needs to be eliminated, but we can break him first."

CRACK! She felt white hot pain across her back. Someone had conjured a whip. CRACK! Someone who knew how to use it. He skin was being taken off in strips. CRACK... CRACK! Two whips now.

CRACK!... CRACK!... CRACK!... She passed out from the pain, only to be awakened by a 'Rennervate' reviving charm. It sounded like Montague and Warrington.

Dolores was begging…

"I'm not Potter… I'm not Potter…" Her voice was broken and meek… desperate… If only those Dementors had done the job…

—DoD—

Daphne Greengrass had been so used to Umbridge failing to catch Diggory and Granger's study group, she had been shocked to find Potter alone in the old Theatre. Shocked and terrified. She knew Umbridge had it in for him… Daphne didn't want to see anyone victimised by those vicious Inquisitors. Even Potter didn't deserve that. Pansy, Adrian, and Millie didn't want any part of this either. They left quietly, when Umbridge was taunting Potter and the others were getting into position. Down the hall and around a corner, they congregated. Daphne suggested getting Professor Snape, but the others refused, saying they didn't want to be connected to any of this.

After a moment's hesitation, Daphne took off in a run to find her Head of House. She sprinted across the castle and ran toward Professor Snape's office. She didn't know who else to go to. It took her far longer to reach his office than she had hoped… Hopefully she wasn't too late.

When she finally reached his door, she banged loudly on it with both fists. "Professor Snape! Professor Snape!" She was completely out of breath and struggling to breathe. Her side ached from the running.

After a few seconds, Professor Snape threw open the door, he looked both irritated and alarmed. It wasn't every day a student went banging on his door. "What is it, Miss Greengrass?"

"It's Potter, sir... Umbridge and the… Inquisitors have him alone… in the old Theatre… In the west side… of the castle… I think they mean… to hurt him… maybe even... kill him…"

Severus Snape suddenly looked alarmed.

Daphne leant on the doorway and was holding her side, trying to catching her breath. She saw her head of house cast a Corporeal Patronus of a Doe and sent it away with a message. Before he rushed out, he stopped and looked at her.

"Stay here. Don't. Touch. Anything…" He then sprinted off in the direction she had travelled.

—DoD—

After the flogging had shredded her back, someone modified the charm holding Dolores and she was flipped over. Dolores winced as her injured back was lain on the rough floor. Her arms were still stretched painfully above her head. Someone was removing the flesh from her fingers… not just skin, but muscle and tendons… leaving only bone. She was screaming with what little energy she had… until Warrington waved his wand over her mouth and ripped her tongue out.

"Rennervate!" Another reviving charm was used to keep her conscious. She stared up and saw her own intestines. She had been slit open and her insides were levitated up. They were cursed and were withering away into blackened husks. They were then forced back into her and her torso was closed and sealed. It was beyond excruciating.

The Carrow sisters then knelt on either side of her head. Dolores had always liked the twins for their sadistic nature, but now she was terrified. They each had a small jar filled with a clear liquid. One of them touched their wand to her neck and she suddenly couldn't move her head.

Waving their wands over her face, Dolores gurgled as she felt unbelievable pressure behind her eyes… until they popped out of her head. The twins snipped them free of the connecting tissues and veins and levitated the eyes into their jars. They had their souvenirs. Dolores numbly felt her eye sockets being scourgified and packed with salt. "Rennervate!" Another reviving charm was applied. She heard the sisters discussing how pretty Potter's eyes were.

Francine Rowle held her wand over Dolores Umbridge's face and whispered a spell. A tiny pencil thin black mass took shape and surged into the High Inquisitors nose. The woman began thrashing about in horrific pain. Francine's family had perfected this terrible curse long before the Cruciatus had been developed. It would pierce eyes, noses, ears, etc. and cause excruciating pain. Unlike the Cruciatus, it ate away tissue in an unbelievably painful manner. From the inside out.

After Francine cast her spell, the others knew their victim was as good as done. Eager to get the last bits of payback out of the person they thought was Harry Potter, the flogging began on the front of Umbridge's body. CRACK!... CRACK!... CRACK!... Dolores had no strength left and could only whimper and moan. The whips were nothing compared to the curse eating away at her face from the inside out. Mercifully, her sanity finally cracked, and she sunk into the gentle embrace of madness.

Warrington checked the time and realized he had to get on with it. "Turn him over… Alright Potter, it's time for the 'Blood Eagle'*.

Warrington began the process with a few well-placed cutting curses. He noted the lack of resistance as he cut through the ribs attaching to the spine. He surmised that Potter's mind had finally snapped. Peeling back the ribs, he exposed the lungs on one side. He shifted his wand and prepared to repeat the process on the other side. Just then, Potter's image shimmered and shifted… He was now staring down at the mutilated form of Dolores Umbridge…

There was a collective gasp. Everything seemed to slow down. What the hell had just happened?

The door flew open and Severus Snape charged in, wand out. He came to a sudden stop and stared in shock. A mutilated body on the blood-stained floor… Inquisitors standing around it… and a few just partaking from a table filled with snacks. He wondered how on earth he had become the head of a house full of sadistic sociopaths. The he remembered his own initiation into the Deatheaters.

Marlene McKinnon was never far from his thoughts...

But these monsters… they were helping themselves to cakes and pastries.

Just then, Albus Dumbledore arrived at the scene via Phoenix fire.

—DoD—

************End Violence Warning************

Moments Earlier

Harry saw Snape rapidly approaching the Theatre. The gig was up. Whatever the Inquisitors had done, it would have to be enough. Likely, there would be broken bones and a few cursed scars… Whatever Umbridge had planned for him had now been done to her. Assuming no one had wised up and cast a 'Finite' on her. It had been about ten minutes… maybe more. A lot could happen in ten minutes. He ended the illusion and stepped into the cupboard. He sat calmly in the cupboard wishing he could see the looks on the faces of the Inquisitors. Maybe now Umbridge would go after them…

He counted to three and opened the cupboard door again. He then stepped out on the other side of the castle… He was now at the cupboard linked classroom in the sub level. Turning, he closed the door and cancelled the connection between the two cupboards. Satisfied, he looked at the map and checked the players. He noted that Dumbledore had suddenly arrived From wherever he had been, and it was sheer chaos in the Theatre.

He then found his current location. One of the groups of students sneaking away from the party had almost reached the entrance of the room he was waiting in. This was the 'Cedric' led group. The hall was dark enough so that he could join them once they passed the room which he was in.

After about two minutes, Harry heard them approaching. He put away the map and prepared himself. The sub level was dark and there were about thirty students in the group. He cast the Anonymous charm from his matrix and waited. After they passed his location, he carefully slipped out into the corridor and caught up with them. After another minute, they came up the stairs and into the Great Hall. Harry ended his 'Anonymous' charm and mingled about with the other students. He was beginning to like Illusionist magic almost as much as he liked Elemental magic. It was less direct, but extremely useful.

A few of the students seemed surprised to see him, but most just assumed he had been there all along. Alibi complete. They then noticed another thirty or forty students entering the Great Hall from the other direction. Harry made a point to wave to Ron and Hermione. Hermione seemed especially relieved to see him. Katie did too. Most of the Gryffindor Quidditch team was there and seemed to group up. Small cliques were forming. Harry suddenly felt alone. Alone in a crowd.

Then the Divination Duo came up to him.

Lavender smiled, "That was an AMAZING party, Harry."

Parvati agreed, "People will talk about it for years. Thanks for letting us help plan it!"

"Thanks guys… I'm glad you liked it." He then smirked and said, "I told you I'd be nicer." They both laughed. If not for the thorns, they probably would have hugged him.

Padma came over and stood beside her sister. They had apparently gotten separated. "Parv, are you alright?"

Parvati hugged her sister. "All good, here. We stuck together." She included Harry in the 'we'. Lavender nodded. Harry just stayed quiet. The four of them found a table and sat down. Hermione and Ron soon joined them. Now Harry just needed to wait.

—DoD—

The Great Hall

10:45 PM

The Great Hall was full of the students that had left Harry's party. Soon, the Hogwarts House Elves began to fear they had missed a dinner, or a party and food started to appear. Lavender stood up on a table and announce the beginning of an 'after party for the after-OWL party'… In a weird way, it made sense.

A few people began filtering back to their dorms, but Harry stayed near the crowd. He wanted to make sure he was remembered as part of the scene. After about twenty minutes, a distressed looking McGonagall came in and abruptly ended the party, sending everyone back to their dorms. She cast a long hard look at Harry. There was suspicion there. Soon Filius Flitwick joined her. He also looked shaken.

McGonagall called harry out. "Mr. Potter, please remain behind."

Lavender and Parvati looked at each other. "We're staying too, Professor. We helped with the party."

Several other students also refused to leave. Harry had expected the students to provide an alibi of his whereabouts, but this was… more than expected. A few students snuck off, but most actually stayed. Katie and Cedric stepped forward looking quite determined.

Cedric said, "Professor, most of us knew he was having a party and we stayed by him. Harry may have planned it, but we're all a part of this."

Katie said, "Professor, If Harry gets punished, so should we all." After a second, she added, "Quite frankly, we're sick of the way things have been going. Between Umbridge and her Inquisitors… I'm not taking it anymore. And I don't think I'm just talking for myself."

Other people were murmuring similar sentiments. Ron said something about fireworks, Hermione was quoting something about OWL and NEWT parties being a tradition. The volume was rising steadily, and both professors seemed nervous. Harry realised this was about to get out of hand. Had there ever been a student riot at Hogwarts before? The strain of the Inquisitors must have really gotten to them all. Even the Hufflepuffs looked ready to throw down. Harry could feel the anger and frustration coming out. He may not have caused it, but he was the catalyst.

This was so much like the Declaration of Eiectio, but in reverse. Harry felt odd knowing that people he could barely look at were standing beside him. For a change. Reaching across his body and clasped his arm. He intentionally pierced his hand on his own thorns. No emotions now. Focus!

Albus Dumbledore came striding in and held his wand to his throat. "SILENCE!" The force of his Sonorous-enhanced voice rattled the room. Harry rolled his eyes. Show Off. Everyone became quiet.

The Headmaster then addressed the crowd. "All students will return to their dorms immediately. Mr. Potter, Miss Bell, Mr. McLaggen… and Mr. Malfoy will remain."

Harry spoke up, "Draco's not here, Professor."

Dumbledore looked right at Harry. This was not the twinkling gaze of 'Grandfather Albus'. "Where is he?"

Harry met his eyes and snapped up his occlumency. "In his dorm." Harry then asked, "Should I summon my Solicitor?" Under his breath, Harry said, "Asshole."

Albus never faltered. "Yes." He held his gaze long enough that Harry knew he heard him. Harry brought up his full Occlumency and stared at the Headmaster. He put every bit of his anger and resentment into the stare.

No one left. It was dead silent. Harry and the Headmaster were still staring at each other, neither willing to break eye contact. McGonagall stepped in front of Dumbledore and whispered something. She effectively ended the stare down.

Harry then approached the people most determined and said. "Thank you all for coming to the Party. I'll see you in the morning." He honestly did not want to incite a riot. Then he added. "Thank you…" He surprised himself by meaning it. Draco's comment about fighting a war alone resonated in the back of his mind. Harry even thanked Cedric.

Hermione was the most reluctant to leave, but he assured her it'd be alright.

—DoD—

Hogwarts

Headmaster's Office

Friday, June 21, 1996

Around 2AM

Harry had summoned his lawyer and Andromeda. Harry gave Mr. Felder the abbreviated version of events and was advised to stay absolutely silent. Andromeda seemed irritated that he had acted out but impressed with how he accomplished it. Narcissa was also present since Draco was somehow included in the request for a statement. Entering the Headmasters office, Harry noted Dumbledore, Snape, McGonagall, and Amelia Bones.

Mr. Felder planned to meet Harry tomorrow to review the events in detail. Dolores Umbridge was high enough at the Ministry to ensure a hearing at the very least. Harry's actions could be considered enough to make him an accessory. Today's meeting would be simple enough, though. Since the will reading, Harry had shared quite a bit about the various parties at Hogwarts, so Mr. Felder felt keenly prepared. The Headmaster and the Potion Master had enough skeletons to ensure their silence. Madam Bones was an ally whether she wanted to be or not.

The Headmaster stood up and beckoned Harry, Andromeda, Draco, Narcissa, and Mr. Felder to take a seat. Harry noted the room was now very cramped. Harry looked about and took a good reading of the room. It was unbelievably grim. Even Snape seemed preoccupied.

Mr. Felder did what he was paid for. "Surely we're not here to discuss Heir Potter's party. Let's get on with this. What are you accusing my client of now?"

Amelia looked extremely irritated. "A Ministry official and a part of the Hogwarts Faculty was horrifically assaulted after Mr. Potter's party. We need to understand what happened."

Mr. Felder pleasantly responded with, "My client maintains that he didn't assault anyone. He didn't even have a wand."

Dumbledore looked conflicted, but asked, "May we check Mr. Malfoy's wand?"

Mr. Felder chuckled, "So now you think Mr. Malfoy assaulted your teacher? Perhaps someone should make popcorn, I always enjoy a snack at a Circus."

Snape spat out, "This is no laughing matter! Cease your ignorant prattle!"

Mr Felder looked back at Snape. "Be very careful how you address me, Deatheater." There was no pretense of professionalism.

Amelia Bones stopped the conflict before it could begin. "Mr. Malfoy, will you kindly acquiesce to having your wand checked? We need to rule out all possible… We need to rule out the use of your wand."

Draco quietly handed his wand to the Madam Bones. She cast 'Priori Incantatem' and noted no malicious castings. She also noted it had not been cleared.

Satisfied, she handed the wand back. "Thank you, Mr. Malfoy. There's nothing suspicious on your wand." Harry noted Snape relaxed a bit. GIT. He was willing to accuse him, but not Draco.

Mr. Felder asked, "Can you fill us in on this assault?" His question was directed toward Madam Bones.

Amelia addressed the Solicitor. "Undersecretary Umbridge was assaulted in the West Theatre shortly after the party Mr. Potter hosted had broken up. Her injuries were extensive and horrific."

Mr. Felder knew everything Harry knew, so he knew what to ask. "Were the perpetrators caught?"

Amelia nodded. "They were. But they all have stated your client's involvement."

Mr. Felder asked, "Were their wands checked?"

Normally, Amelia would never allow this much dialogue in an interrogation. But her magic was requiring it. The damn tier one alliance penalties… Where Harry Potter was concerned, she had an Elephant that she could either ride or attempt to carry.

Amelia said, "Yes. There is no doubt their wands were used…"

Mr. Felder slapped the table. "Hold up a moment, you said this occurred after the party… My client was with his friends. Dozens of witnesses will, without a doubt, attest to this."

Snape hissed out, "He. Was. Involved."

Mr. Felder gave a theatrical look of confusion. "So, my client, the Heir of an Ancient and MOST Noble house, somehow managed to run around casting spells from other people's wands. While they stood there and watched. Then he miraculously teleported through anti-Apparition wards and joined his friends in the Great Hall. Friends who were only guilty of attending an after-OWL party. Something that used to be an annual tradition at Hogwarts. Did I miss anything?"

Dumbledore handed the Solicitor a sheet of paper. "This is the list of injuries sustained by Undersecretary Umbridge." Mr. Felder struggled to hide his shock at the list of injuries. Harry had assumed they were only hexing and jinxing the woman.

Harry held out his hand. After a moment's hesitation, Mr. Felder handed it to his client. He had a good idea how the young man would react, and he wanted the others to see Harry's reaction.

Harry looked it over and struggled for breath. He had no idea they would go this far… Did even Dolores Umbridge deserve this? This is what they had planned for him! Did Umbridge or anyone one deserve this? Maybe… but he'd rather not have been the instigator… my god. She's not expected to survive… That might even be a blessing…

When he looked up, the shock was written all over his face. "I… this is awful…"

Dumbledore asked, "Harry, did you have anything to do with this?"

Mr. Felder answered immediately, preventing Harry from giving anything away. "Absolutely NOT! My client left the party and was witnessed by dozens of people. You have your perpetrators and you need to focus on them! Heir Black is being targeted by those animals because his Godfather, Sirius Black, bankrupted numerous families with connections to Voldemort. A few of whom are related to the vicious criminals that attacked Undersecretary Umbridge." Mr. Felder had regurgitated this as fast as he could clearly speak and in a loud enough tone that he was not interrupted.

Amelia Bones stated, "All avenues must be investigated, Mr. Felder." She was not used to dealing with such open contempt and disrespect.

Mr. Felder gave her a cunning look and said, "Maybe you should be investigating Dolores Umbridge and why these students wanted her dead. Starting with her use of a Blood Quill during detentions."

Harry realised the man was pulling out all stops. Harry had shared everything Hermione and Ginny had told him about Umbridge, and Mr. Felder was now using it to shield him. It bought Harry a minute to get himself back together. Had he admitted to having anything to do with the crime, this conversation would now be going very differently. It paid to have a good solicitor on the payroll.

Amelia Bones looked at Dumbledore. "A Blood Quill? Is this true?"

Dumbledore looked off balance… Harry realised the man didn't know…

Mr. Felder shook his head in an exaggerated manner. "Perhaps, Madam Bones, you should broaden your net. Heir Black's friends have reported detentions where students were forced to write lines with a Blood Quill. I have no doubt you took Oaths and Vows when you accepted your position. It would be a shame if anyone came to see you as an… Oath Breaker." There was the threat.

A long and painful silence followed.

Madam Bones took a deep breath. "Perhaps Mr. Potter should head back to his Dorm and prepare for his final examination. If we have any more questions…"

Mr. Felder finished her sentence, "You'll contact me."

Severus Snape had heard enough. Looking at Madam Bones, he exploded. "You can't just dismiss this! There's more here and you know it!"

Mr. Felder ignored Snape and addressed Madam Bones. "Madam Bones. If a person passes on knowledge to a known murderer that results in the deaths of a Noble Heir and an Ancient and Noble Heir, is that a crime?"

Madam Bones cut her eyes at the Solicitor, wondering what he was up to. "Of course it is. Where are you going with this, Felder?" She so desperately wanted to shut him down… But couldn't.

The solicitor smiled and asked, "What if said information came from a Prophesy?"

Amelia Bones was a cunning Witch, she knew the solicitor was sending message. But her magic was directing her to let this play out. "That would be… complicated."

Mr. Felder nodded and noted that both Dumbledore and Snape looked wound tight. "I wonder if Madam Longbottom would think it complicated."

Harry felt like cheering. He had asked Mr. Felder months ago if Snape could be prosecuted. Apparently, prophesies were not admissible, and it would be impossible to prosecute Snape for passing on the prophesy he had overheard to Voldemort. Especially after Dumbledore had spoken for him. But Madam Longbottom was on the Board of Hogwarts. And then there was public opinion to consider.

Amelia had heard enough, "Mr. Felder, if you wish to bring charges, come to the Ministry. Otherwise, stop wasting my time."

Harry noted that the message had been received, and not by Madam Bones. Snape and Dumbledore were now noticeably quiet.

Minerva McGonagall finally spoke up. "Madam Umbridge was a bully and a sadist. If she was using a Blood Quill in detentions… well, I won't be shedding any tears for the repugnant woman. Now. I wish to get a little sleep before sunrise."

The meeting broke up and everyone filtered out.

Mr. Felder pulled his clients into an abandoned conference room and cast a privacy charm.

Mr. Felder wasted no time. "Heir Black. Do not speak of this to anyone. If asked for information, refer them to me. It was clear from your reaction that you had no idea Umbridge's followers would commit such atrocities. Just remember, they would have done it to you. Heir Malfoy, the same need to say nothing applies to you as well."

Harry nodded. "Yes sir." Looking at Andromeda, he faltered a bit. "I'm sorry, Andromeda… I had no idea… I swear I would never…"

Andromeda was understandably shaken at the list of injuries Umbridge had sustained. "Hadrian… Harry… all you did was switch places with a sadistic sociopath. She literally created her own punishment. Hold your head high and know that, had Dolores Umbridge acted as a teacher, nothing would have happened to her."

Harry nodded. "Thank you…"

Andromeda was strong for Harry, but she was shaken. It was starting again… the horrors of the late 1970's. She had to prepare. She had to make sure Harry never faltered or hesitated. No, this was nothing to be proud of, but it felt like justice.

—DoD—

Amelia and Dumbledore were the last occupants in Albus' office. They were both silent for at least a minute. There was a tension in the air. They had both seen crimes like this before… but never perpetrated by students at Hogwarts.

"Albus, did you see Mr. Potter's reaction? He's not capable of faking a reaction like that."

"Yes, Amelia. That was the reaction of someone who had never seen sadistic violence. Violence like we saw in the last war." Grimly, he added, "Harry Potter is a terrible liar, it's one of his best qualities. I must confess that I was relieved."

Amelia gave the Headmaster a quiet stare. "You know there is little hard evidence to pursue here. My Aurors have conducted their interviews with his friends and Mr. Potter has an ironclad alibi. There were no signs of potions or the use of the Imperious curse on the Inquisitors... Pending the interrogations, this appears to be an open and shut case."

Albus Dumbledore agreed, "Mr. Potter seems to be completely innocent. But he knows more than he's saying. I have no doubt he somehow influenced the events. He simply had no idea how far it would go."

Amelia winced; she came to the same conclusion. "Fudge will be alerted in the morning. I expect he will demand action. This will get ugly."

"Then, Amelia, we must be ready for it. While I have suspicions Mr. Potter had some minor part in the events, I also have no doubt he would never have allowed something like this to occur."

Amelia wasn't so sure. Umbridge had harassed him and killed his Familiar. She was also the prime suspect in the investigation of the Godric's Hollow Dementor assassination attempt. Perhaps now, Fudge will let her do her job and investigate the Dementor attack. She needed something to distract the minister. She expected circumstantial evidence to come out of the interrogations of the perpetrators.

"Albus, I'll be looking into the Blood Quill accusations. Immediately." She wanted to gather the evidence before Fudge wakes up and can prevent the investigation.

The Headmaster gave a long and appraising look. "Amelia, if the accusations are true… It could very well ruin Minister Fudge." Albus knew it wouldn't reflect well on him either.

Amelia simply smiled. She was counting on it. Fudge needed to be removed. She would shield Albus as much as possible, but he should have stepped in.

"Headmaster, please take me to Dolores Umbridge's Office."

—DoD—

Hogwarts

Home School Conference Room

5AM

Harry was sitting on his bed whispering to his familiar. She was resting inside 'her' bag. Selene and Hecate were awake, but Artemis was sound asleep. Draco was also awake and was too wound up to sleep. In five hours, the Muggle Studies exam would begin. Draco wasn't taking it, but Harry had planned to. After debating whether to show up, Harry decided to just grab a few hours of sleep, take the exam, and crash afterward.

After reading the things that had been done to Umbridge, Harry was feeling extremely conflicted. He couldn't help but feel guilty… even knowing that she had planned for him to be in her shoes. He had shared the details with Draco and was surprised to find that the other teen had not been shocked. Obviously, Draco had seen or heard of this kind of brutality before. Harry then recalled who had been living at the Malfoy Manor over the Holidays.

Draco tried to reassure him. "Harry, you couldn't have known they'd go that far. I'm only glad you got that switching spell right. Imagine if you hadn't!"

Harry agreed. "I just don't see how they thought they could get away with it…"

Draco already knew. He had seen and heard of similar actions and tactics used by Deatheaters. Used by… his father.

"Harry, they never planned for anyone to know. You would have just… disappeared. Transfiguration can be used to dispose of bodies." Getting Harry's attention, Draco added, "Now we know what we're dealing with. Please, no more stupid risks."

Harry thought for a moment. "Do you think Fudge will come after me?"

Draco debated whether to be honest… "He'll try. But we stick with the story. The evidence is definitely on your side so no one can force a Veritaserum interrogation."

Harry tried not to think about Fudge. For all his oddities, the Minister was savvy. Cunning too. Harry was suddenly realising just how tired he was. Exhausted.

A timid voice then called his name. "Harry?"

Harry looked over and saw Billy Corbin. Draco made an irritated noise.

Harry was in no mood to generate bad Karma. "Hi Billy. Say… how did you get up the stairs?"

Billy shrugged. "Enchanted chair. It's required for Hogwarts… what with all the steps."

Harry suddenly realised how silly his question was. "What's up, Billy? Other than all of us… It's almost morning."

"I just want that autograph." He added, "If you don't mind…"

Harry smiled. The kid was tenacious. His familiar had fallen asleep in his lap.

The book handed Harry a small book and a quill.

Harry asked, "What should I write?" Draco was smirking at him.

"Just your name, please. Thanks Harry." The kid looked embarrassed and kind of sad. Draco's attitude didn't help.

Harry tried to write. It was dry. "Ummm, do you have any ink?"

Billy produced another one, "I think this one's good."

Harry tried… nope. "Draco, do you have a quill?"

Draco laughed obnoxiously. "Get your own quill, glory hound."

Billy pulled out a muggle pen. "Do you mind using a muggle pen?"

Harry took it "Not at all, Billy." It was a retractable pen with a 'clicker' on the back. Harry just wanted to get this over with and maybe get a little sleep.

Harry set the journal open and clicked the pen.

He suddenly felt a pull near his navel and the world began spinning.

Draco bolted upright… Harry was gone.

Billy Corbin just kept saying "I'm sorry… I'm sorry…I'm sorry…"

To be continued.

Next Chapter: Hair of the Dog.

Notes

*The Blood Eagle was a Viking torture where the ribs are cut away from the spine and pulled back, exposing the lungs. It's a brutal way to kill someone and many historians believe it was so horrible it might not have occurred.

I borrowed a few 'Illusionist' spells from the Earthdawn world setting. The first was the 'Best Face' spell which I modified and converted to the 'Anonymous' charm. The second was the 'Form Exchange' spell which allowed an illusionist to switch places with a target and conceal the switch with an illusion. This was what Harry did to Umbridge. Finally, the 'Other Place' spell allowed an illusionist to temporarily link two doorways up to a mile apart. It reminded me of a Vanishing Cabinet, I made use of it as Harry's evacuation and alibi plan.

When Harry took the pen, he was distracted by the day's events, tired from lack of sleep, and annoyed that the first two quills didn't work. He should have sensed he enchantments, but the above factors were enough to make him let down his guard. He's human. Those of you who have read Casting Shadows know how paranoid he is in future years… with good reason.

Next chapter will be combat heavy. It will take me a bit longer than normal to write.