A.N./Disclaimer: Most of the characters and the original plot belong to J.K. Rowling. I do not own them. Neither am I profiting from this nor do I plan to commercialize it. I am writing for fun.
A.N.: Thank you for all the follows, favorites and reviews.
Chapter 6
The following day Harry went down to the Great Hall earlier than usual. He had found it difficult to sleep for too long. He was eager to know what had gone down in the Wizengamot. He had received a small note from Ted stating that their goal was achieved. The note didn't go much into detail though. He sat down for breakfast and looked towards the staff table. Only Professors Flitwick and McGonagall had come down for breakfast. The hall began to fill soon as the students and staff members came in for breakfast. Neville sat down beside Harry. Ron had taken a seat opposite to Harry and begun eating. Harry passed the note to Neville and said, "Sirius is free and taken up my guardianship as well." Neville and he had had a long conversation before dinner last night. They seemed to have gotten a little closer.
Neville took the note and read it. He whispered back, "That's great. It will be all over the Daily Prophet. I will lend you mine."
"Thanks, Nev", replied Harry gratefully. Neville and Harry continued talking about next year's schedule. Ron spoke a few times, but he was very busy eating. Their conversation was broken by the sound of incoming mail owl. An owl headed towards Neville. He untied the paper and paid to the delivery owl. Unfurling the newspaper, they read:
Sirius Black innocent, Peter Pettigrew thrown into Azkaban!
In the emergency Wizengamot session held yesterday, it was revealed that Sirius Black was falsely incarcerated without a trial. The actual culprit, Peter Pettigrew, had framed Sirius Black for his crimes. This writer is surprised that the Wizengamot had falsely imprisoned the then heir and now Lord of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Black. If such an event can happen to such a prominent citizen, this writer would like to know how many more were falsely imprisoned?
Peter Pettigrew, who was thought to have died a heroic death, had been awarded Order of Merlin posthumously. He had been hiding to escape his crimes. The Wizengamot has stripped Peter Pettigrew of his honorific and sentenced him for life.
Read about the trial in detail on page 2.
A brief history of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Black on page 3.
The Potter Wills unsealed; Lord Black handed the guardianship of his blood-adopted son and godson, Heir Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived.
The Wizengamot finally unsealed the Potter Wills yesterday after the criminal trial. Lord Black along with the members of the Potter-Bones-Longbottom alliance threatened to pull out all their resources from Britain if the Wills weren't unsealed. The events took a shocking turn when it was revealed that Lord Black was not only the godfather of our young hero, Harry Potter, by the godparent ritual, but also his blood-adopted father. If these Wills had been unsealed earlier, it would also have been clear that Lord Black couldn't have betrayed the Potters as he would have died due to the godparent ritual. The Wizengamot decided to hand over the guardianship of our young hero to Lord Black according to late Lord and Lady Potter's wishes.
Read about the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter on page 4.
Read about the Potter-Bones-Longbottom alliance on page 5.
Harry and Neville read the entire articles and put down the paper. Neville said, "Congrats Harry! You can now stay with your father."
Ron, not wanting to be left behind, "Yeah, mate. You won't have to stay with those filthy muggles anymore."
Before Harry could reply, he was distracted by a large regal looking owl headed straight towards him. Confused, Harry untied the letter from the owl's leg and gave it some bacon strips and water. Opening the letter, Harry read:
Dear Harry,
Allow me to introduce myself. I am Sirius Orion Black, your godfather and your blood-adopted father. I was told you know the passphrase.
Love,
Sirius.
Harry withdrew his snakewood wand. He tapped on the letter and muttered the passphrase. The words on the parchment were replaced.
Prongslet,
I would like to thank you for your part in my freedom. You might not remember much about me, but I have good memories of when you were a baby. I would like to get to know you better. The Wizengamot handed me your guardianship, though from what Ted informed me, you don't legally need a guardian. It was wise of you to keep everything under the wraps. I have been brought up to speed by Ted and I heartily agree to your plans. I had some suggestions as well that will certainly make your life easier next year onwards. I would have liked to meet you this Sunday when the goblins visit Hogwarts to render the basilisk carcass, but I know that getting Dumbledore and Snape out of the castle is more necessary. Lady Dowager Longbottom will be contacting Dumbledore regarding it during Tuesday's breakfast service. I am very proud of you and your plan for distribution of funds. Your parents would have been very proud as well.
I am currently staying in Black Manor, the ancestral seat of House of Black. I am yet to visit my parents' townhome at 12 Grimmauld Place, London. Ted, Andi and Dora are currently staying with me. Andi is a healer. She is helping me regain my health. Ted and I will go over the information that he learned during his time at the Time Chamber with you. I will see you at King's Cross at end of the term. I will be with Augusta, Amelia and Ted. I like your plan about Lily's Keep.
Love,
Padfoot.
Harry muttered 'Mischief Managed' and the letter changed to the original content. He was smiling like a fool when Neville elbowed him and said, "That's our house's official mail owl." Harry followed Neville's line of sight and saw the owl perched in front of Dumbledore.
Meanwhile at the Staff table
Dumbledore slammed the Daily Prophet in anger. He was cursing inwardly when he saw a large regal looking owl head towards Harry. Oh, this is not good, he thought. That owl is from House of Black. Sirius has already contacted Harry. Dumbledore was cursing his luck. It seemed he couldn't catch a break. First the trial, then the guardianship. The one time he had hoped for the Daily Prophet editors to slack at their work, and they had disappointed him. If that wasn't enough, Sirius had also sent Harry a letter. It was as if everyone had decided to go against him all at once. Little did he know his day was about to get worse when another large owl landed in front of him. One look at it and he knew that it was from House of Longbottom. What could the old witch want now? He untied the letter and began to read:
Headmaster Dumbledore,
As an aftermath to the shocking revelations at yesterday's Wizengamot session, there was a change in the Board of Governors. Lord Black has rightfully taken up the seat of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Black. As he is the proxy of the Most Ancient and Most Noble Houses of Peverell and Potter, and Ancient and Most Noble Houses of Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, he is the de facto chairperson of the Board. However, Lord Black has honored me with the role.
Lord Black wanted to know if the students of Hogwarts had any major complains. Lady Regent Bones and I could not, in good faith, bring ourselves to lie to Lord Black. After a thorough discussion, we found it agreeable to address the issue in person with you and the concerned subject of the complains: Potions Master Severus Snape. Therefore, I would like to schedule a meeting with Potions Master Snape and yourself with the new board this Sunday (June 20, 1993) at 10:00 A.M.. Both of you are required to attend. If you or Potions Master Snape fail to attend, the board will have to proceed with the sacking of Severus Snape. We cannot have a professor teach at Hogwarts who neither respects authority nor has a good standing among the students.
On another note, Lady Regent Bones will be in attendance during Saturday's breakfast service. The petrified victims will be released from the Hospital Wing on Saturday morning. She would be presenting the Award for Special Services to School.
I await your response not later than end of today.
Augusta Longbottom,
Lady Dowager of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Longbottom.
Chairperson of the Board of Governors.
Dumbledore put down the letter and called Snape towards him. He cast a silencing charm and passed the letter to him. Snape's face went through different shades of purple as he screamed, "That bloody bastard, Black. It hasn't been a day since his freedom, and he wants to sack me. It has to be that Potter brat, I tell you!"
"Calm down, Severus", said Dumbledore. "We can't have you doing something foolish. Remember what will happen if you get sacked. You will be sentenced to Azkaban and I won't be able to help you. With Black now free, the Potter-Bones-Longbottom alliance has enough votes to get their favored ruling. You will have to be very careful around Harry and Mr. Longbottom."
"Surely you don't believe in this dragonshite", exhaled Snaped.
"As much as I don't want to, I do", replied Dumbledore. "We will have to be careful and wait for the right time. For now, I want you to keep a low profile and prepare for the defense this Sunday."
Snape nodded meekly and left the old wizard. I think I will call Harry for a talk this afternoon, thought Dumbledore. I will try to get him to see reason and make him accept to stay with his muggle relatives. One way or another. Having made up his mind, he prepared a note for Harry. He would hand it to him on his way out.
Meanwhile at Gryffindor Table
Harry and Neville watched the silent show in amusement. Neville asked, "I wonder what my gran sent him that enraged both?"
"I am not sure, Nev", began Harry, "but whatever it is, it has got to do with the basilisk business."
Neville who had some idea about what was going to happen caught onto it in an instant. He knew that it had something to do with getting Dumbledore and Snape out of the castle on Sunday. Ron who had no clue asked, "What do you mean basilisk business?"
Neville mustered up a face of confusion and turned towards Harry as well. Boy, oh boy, Harry had to come up with a good reply, "Well, think about it. We know that Neville's gran is on the Board of Governors. It probably is a letter about the Chamber of Secrets and how the students were at risk."
Neville, in an attempt to help Harry, said, "I think that you are right. None of the adults would want to be blamed about inaction either."
Ron replied, "Yeah mate. I wouldn't want to be told I didn't do anything. There's nothing much anyone can do. Your gran is a scary witch too."
Neville and Harry looked at each other in amusement and turned to Ron. Neville said, "Yeah Ron, you're right."
Before Harry could reply, Dumbledore tossed a note in front of him while he passed by. Picking up the note, he read:
Harry,
I would like to meet you during lunch today. Please come up to my office. I am currently fascinated by 'sherbet lemon'.
Albus Dumbledore.
"What was that about?", enquired Ron.
"He wants to meet with me today during lunch", replied Harry.
Neville asked, "Do you have an idea why?"
"I am not sure", replied Harry. "I guess he wants to see how I am doing after today's article. It is a big news after all."
"Yeah mate", began Ron, "I bet he is happy for you."
"Yeah", was all Harry could say. Neville and he knew that it couldn't have been further from the truth. For the first time this morning, Harry looked around and saw every eye was fixated on him. He had been so busy reading the newspaper and the letters that he hadn't seen everyone's eyes on him. As he was about to get up and leave, he heard the pathetic voice of the blonde ferret.
"What's the hurry about, Potty?", smirked Malfoy. The two goons standing on either side of Malfoy had the same expression. "I don't understand why Lord Black would adopt you, a half-blood. The Blacks have always been purebloods. Your father was a blood-traitor who married a mudblood. You might be the blood-adopted son of Lord Black, but you can never reach my level."
Everyone in Gryffindor table who had heard the comment stared at Malfoy in rage. Ron huffed, "Shut it, Malfoy. You aren't half the wizard Harry is."
Malfoy replied, "Nobody's talking to you, weasel. I don't even know how a piss-poor family such as yours can manage to pay for Hogwarts." He turned to Harry and grinned, "Are you so ashamed of your own mother that you won't defend her?"
The temperature plummeted as Harry's voice took an icy edge, "Heir Malfoy, I would watch my tongue if I were you. It seems your pathetic, Death Eater of a father hasn't given you a lesson in history of families in Magical Britain. I would recommend you read about it or ask your mother, who was raised a Black. There is one thing I do agree with you about. I can never reach your level for you are an heir to a Noble House and I am an heir to the Most Ancient and Most Noble House. I do not care about such while making friends. However, since that is the only language you seem to understand, so be it." Draco looked pale at Harry's retort. He had not expected a verbal assault from Harry where he'd be beaten this bad. Harry continued in a normal voice, "Now, why don't you take your goons and leave. If Lord Black got the wind of what you just said, your family will pay dearly." Turning to Neville, Harry asked, "Nev, what was it the Daily Prophet had mentioned about the House of Black and revenge?"
Neville replied in a matter-of-fact manner, "The House of Black never forgives a perpetrator against one of their own."
"I believe you understand what that means, Malfoy", replied Harry. Draco whimpered and left with his goons.
"Bloody hell mate", exclaimed Ron. "You out-Malfoyed Malfoy. That was bloody brilliant." Harry smiled at his first friend and left the Great Hall.
Headmaster's office, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Lunch Hour
Dumbledore saw Harry enter the office. He pointed towards the seat opposite to him and said, "Come in Harry, take a seat." As Harry sat down, he pushed the bowl of sweets towards Harry and asked, "Lemon drop?" Harry replied in the negative. Through the enchantments on his glasses, he could see that the candies were laced with some sort of nefarious potion. During his healing, the healers were able to fix his eyesight, but the group had decided that Harry should continue wearing them to keep up appearances. To make the best use of the opportunity, the goblin enchanters had added some very useful enchantments to his glasses. Dumbledore asked again, "Are you sure? I like them. They have the right amount of sweetness and tanginess." Harry replied in the negative again. Dumbledore continued, "I apologize for asking you to finish your lunch soon and spend time with me. You look much better since your outing with Minerva. I hope you had a good time. I couldn't talk to you as much as I would have wanted to due to the incidents this year, Harry. I hope you can forgive me."
Harry, who had anticipated such a thing, replied, "It's alright, professor. You are a busy man. I don't want to keep you from fulfilling your duties." Harry thought to himself, Not that you do much anyway.
"That's very kind of you, Harry", replied Albus. He continued, "How has your second year at Hogwarts been? Are you liking your classes?"
"To be honest, professor", began Harry, "It has been similar to last year. The first couple of months till the Halloween have been uneventful. A life-changing event occurred on Halloween that were followed by numerous other incidents that led to a final showdown with Voldemort at the end of the year. I am adjusting to my classes better with Hermione's help."
"I am sorry I couldn't protect you from everything", replied Dumbledore in his grandfatherly voice. "I would never want you to face such difficulties. I promised your parents to do what's best for you and I have failed miserably. Please forgive me."
Harry thought, Oh, you meddlesome bastard. Playing with my emotions. I might have actually believed your words if it wasn't for all the things I have discovered about you. He replied, "It's nothing, professor. You can't be looking after me all the time. I am sure you have better things to do."
That's what I want you think, Harry. Keep that in mind for the next thing I say, thought Dumbledore. He replied, "You are very kind, Harry, just like your mother." Dumbledore paused and popped a candy into his mouth. He sucked on it and continued, "I am sure you read the article in today's newspaper about your godfather and blood-adopted father, Lord Black. I can't say how happy I am for you. I knew Lord Black when he was in Hogwarts. Your father and he were the best of friends. He couldn't have chosen a better godfather for you."
"Thanks, professor", replied a puzzled Harry. "I look forward to getting to know him. I received a letter from him. He will meet me at King's Cross at end of the term. I am excited." Harry thought to himself, Wasn't he supposed to oppose Sirius' claim of guardianship?
Dumbledore's next words though proved Harry right. "Ah, yes. I am afraid you must decline that Harry. Have you never wondered why I, despite being your former magical guardian, take you away from the Dursleys?"
"To be fair, I didn't know you were my former magical guardian until this very moment, professor", replied Harry. "Now that I think back on it, it sort of makes sense. I couldn't help but notice that you address me by my first name whereas you address the rest of the students by Mr. or Miss followed by their last name. Was it because you were my magical guardian?"
"Forgive me for my slight, Harry. It seems I have much to ask forgiveness for", said Dumbledore. He carried on, "However, as I said, I insist you return to the Dursleys during the summer. The magical world is far too dangerous for you. No place is as safe for you as the Dursleys."
"Forgive me, professor", began Harry, "but I don't see myself returning to the Dursleys. I don't see how that place is safe for me when I am abused and treated worse than a house-elf in that household."
"Be that as it may", replied Dumbledore, "you need to return to the Dursleys. I tell you this for your own good, Harry. There is a set of protective wards that protect you from anyone with an intent to harm you from entering it. This set of wards cannot be recreated as they were made using your mother's blood. They will protect you as long as you call that place your home."
"I am afraid I must decline, professor", replied Harry. He continued, "I will not step into a household with the Dursleys. I have a father who will look after me and I am going to stay with him. If there is nothing you want to speak about my academics, I must leave."
Dumbledore replied with annoyance in his voice, "I must insist, Harry. It is for your own good." He thought to himself, This is not how I had planned this conversation to go. Why can't the brat just accept that I know better?
Harry replied in a flat tone, "You may insist all you want, professor, but I am not stepping a foot in that household. On a further note, as you're no longer my magical guardian and since I don't recall asking you to call me by my first name, I ask you to treat me as any other student. Else, I will take up my matter with the Board of Governors."
Dumbledore went red with anger. This little dipshit thinks he can make demands of me. I am going to show him who's in control here, thought Dumbledore. He reached for the Elder Wand with the thought of confounding Harry and then it all happened in a flash, though it seemed like a lifetime to Dumbledore. As soon as he had grabbed the wand with ill-intent towards Harry, the wand willed itself out of his hands and flew straight to Harry's hand. Dumbledore stared at it with horror. Did the brat just disarm me? With wandless and nonverbal casting? No, that can't be it. Probably just accidental magic, thought Dumbledore. Whatever the case may be, I lost its allegiance. Looking at Harry with wide eyes, Dumbledore asked, "Can you describe what you just did, Harry?"
In the meantime, Harry who had caught the wand, thanks to his amazing seeker-reflexes, recalled Master Sato's words about the wand. He heard Adrian's voice in his head, 'My Lord, Albus intended you harm with a wand infused with your family magic. The Elder Wand, recognizing its true master, willed itself to you to prevent any harm coming to you. He thinks it is accidental magic.'
Harry replied to Adrian, 'Thank you, Adrian. I guess it makes sense. Master Sato told me something would happen if he would try to use the wand on me.' He replied to Dumbledore, "I am not quite sure, professor. I believe it to be accidental magic. The wand feels warm in my hand, just like my wand. Please call me Mr. Potter, professor. As I said, I don't want you to call me by my first name."
Dumbledore eyes widened further at Harry's claim. He muttered, "Forgive me, Har-Mr. Potter. Can you return my wand?"
Oh, this will be quite funny, thought Harry and handed the wand over. As soon as Harry handed the wand, the wand flew back to his hand. They went back and forth a few times before Harry replied, "I guess the wand has chosen its master, professor. I think it wants to be with me."
Dumbledore resigned and said, "Very well, Mr. Potter. I believe it is now yours and wouldn't work for me anyway. Treat it carefully for it is very powerful." I will just have to think of some other way later to get the wand. I should have been careful thought Dumbledore. Harry nodded and placed the wand in his sleeve, where he had placed the empty holster. Dumbledore continued, "Since I don't see a way of changing your mind about your plans for the summer, I believe the meeting has run down its course. Good day, Mr. Potter."
Harry replied, "Good day to you too, Headmaster Dumbledore." He turned around and started walking towards the door. He thought to Adrian, 'Adrian, thank you for your help the other day. Please keep me informed on the old coot's machinations directly or through Lady Hogwarts.'
'I will, my Lord. It was great to see you again', replied the hat.
Harry exited the office and hissed in parsel, §Old Meddlesssssome Bassstard§. He called for Lady Hogwarts, 'Lady Hogwarts, I have a question.'
'Yes, my Lord. How can I help you?'
'I need a place to meet my friends. A place that will be a secret. Something similar to Fidelius.'
'My Lord, there is the Room of Requirement on the seventh floor, but it can be found by anyone who needs a room. The room can turn into anything required by the user. However, for your meetings, I would suggest you use the Tower of Gryffindor Chamber. It was the quarters of Lord Godric Gryffindor. I had the castle elves ready it when you stepped into the castle. It has been looked after well and has two house-elves, Dippy and Larry, to help you out. Only the ones you deem worthy can find the Tower. There are chambers of other founders as well, but they are not currently in a condition to host a meeting. If you wish, I can get those chambers cleaned out as well.'
'Thank you, my Lady. The Tower of Gryffindor Chamber will do. I could see the location as soon as you mentioned the name. How do I invite my friends to it? As for the other founders' chambers, you can get them cleaned out over the summer. I would like to explore them next year.'
'Very well, my Lord. I will have them ready for next year. As for inviting your friends, all you need to do is look into their eyes and say, "I invite you to the Tower of Gryffindor Chamber". Only the person whose eyes you're looking into, their elves and familiars will know the location. People who overhear will only hear buzzing sound. It was enchanted by Lady Rowena Ravenclaw. If you need extra rooms in the tower, you can tell me. I will create them for you.'
'Brilliant. Thank you very much, Lady Hogwarts.'
'You're welcome, my Lord.'
Over the next couple of days, Harry spent most of his free time either exploring and setting up the Tower of Gryffindor Chamber according to his liking or by Hermione's bedside in the Hospital Wing recounting the day's events. The Tower of Gryffindor Chamber was by far the most beautiful thing he had ever seen in the castle. The entire tower was well lit. It had drapes of Gryffindor color. There was a kitchen, a casual common room, a formal sitting room, a formal dining hall, an informal dining area, a master bedroom, six smaller bedrooms, all with bathrooms en suite, a library, a master study and two large study halls. He asked the elves to stock the kitchen. He sent Tony to fetch two of the remaining eight projector pensieves from Potter vaults which he set up in the formal sitting room and the casual common room. He had already set up one each in the trunk's library and sitting room. He asked Tabby to make permanent copies of all the books he had in his Heir's trunk's library and add them to the tower's library and vice-versa. After the copies of the books were made and both libraries were synchronized, he sent the trunk to Director Ragnok for planned modification. He decided that he would place the trunk in the library for any time dilation use that might be needed in the future. He requested Lady Hogwarts to create a combat training area, a potions lab, a couple of small classrooms and eight more bedrooms with en suite bathrooms in the tower. He was finally satisfied on Thursday evening. He thought to himself, Brilliant. I will bring Auntie Min here tomorrow. I will ask for her suggestions to make it better. I will need her help as well to bring Hermione, Neville, Susan and Luna in here. Pleased with himself, Harry left the tower.
On Friday evening, before dinner, Harry made his way to Professor McGonagall's office and knocked at her door. "Come in", came her reply.
Harry entered the office and said, "Good evening, Auntie Min. I hope I didn't disturb you."
Minerva looked up at Harry and said, "Oh, no Harry. I was just going through what Amelia is going to say during tomorrow's breakfast. Are you excited that Miss Granger will be released tomorrow? I have seen you spend quite a lot of time at her bedside."
"Yes, I can't wait for her to be back. I miss her", admitted Harry. "Anyway", continued Harry and looked into her eyes, "I invite you to the Tower of Gryffindor Chamber." He saw a flash of realization hit Minerva's face. He said, "I want you to come with me to the tower. I want to show you something."
Minerva replied, "Of course. However, how is it that I never knew about it before?" Harry answered her question with the explanation that Lady Hogwarts had given him. Minerva said, "That is great, Harry. It will be helpful to us." Harry nodded and they both left for the tower.
Minerva was amazed seeing the tower. She, like Harry before her, admired the beauty and elegance of the tower. Harry gave her a tour of the tower. "I like what you've done with the place", said Minerva taking a seat on the couch in the common room. "It is like a mini-Hogwarts inside Hogwarts. Since nobody can find you in here, it is great as well. I have a couple of suggestions though." When Harry nodded, she continued, "It would be good if you can arrange for another classroom similar to how Professor Flitwick's is set up. I have already spoken to him and he will give you extra lessons for charms, particularly nonverbal casting and Runes. I am guessing you have one classroom set up for Transfiguration and Arithmancy, one for History of Magic and Magical Theory, the combat training room is for DADA and the potions lab is for potions. I would also request you to have a room with dueling arena where you people can practice dueling under our guidance. You may need to add a few more couches, tables and chairs in your library. You have a vast library from all your Houses. I will add more books here from my personal library and Hogwarts' library, including the restricted section. I will encourage your friends to add books from their libraries as well. Of course, a lot of the books will already be present and no Family Grimoires."
Harry heard Lady Hogwarts reply in his head, 'My Lord, it is already done. I have added copies of the books in Hogwarts' library as well, including the ones the Headmaster had removed and placed in his personal library. I have enchanted your library to always contain a copy of the book even if one has been taken by one of your friends to read. The fireplace in the casual common room can be hooked up to the floo. Only people who know of the Tower can use it.' Harry thanked her and relayed the same to Minerva. They took another tour and found everything to be as Lady Hogwarts had mentioned. After they had sat down again, Harry said, "I have been in touch with Director Ragnok about redesigning the trunk. The trunk is already with him. Tony has gone to inform him to model the trunk's apartment similar to the structure in the tower. I plan to place the trunk in the library and key it to the magical signatures of everyone who can access this tower. In that way, if we need to spend more time than possible in real-time, we can use the trunk. Tabby will be making the permanent copies of the books Lady Hogwarts added to the tower's library so that we can add them to the trunk. The goblins will place a similar enchantment as well. The trunk will be here by tomorrow morning. Lily's Keep will have a similar structure, but all the rooms will be of the size of the master bedroom here. Every bedroom will also have en suite bathroom and personal study. The library will be a similar copy. It will have some more specialized rooms that we will discuss about later."
Minerva replied, "That is a great idea, Harry. We can even teach you during the summer. Ask Tabby to meet me tonight after dinner. I will give her the list of books for all seven years of Hogwarts. She can buy them tomorrow and add them to the libraries."
"Thank you", replied Harry. "I need another help. Can you call Susan and Luna to your office tomorrow after lunch? I would like to bring them, Neville and Hermione here tomorrow. If you think we can trust Professors Flitwick and Sprout, you can call them as well. I plan to take everyone into the trunk before the tour to show my memories of the past two years and the information we discussed in the Time Chamber."
"I believe I can do that, Harry", replied Minerva. "I will ask them to meet me at 2 P.M. in my office tomorrow. That should give us enough time to go over everything." With that, Harry and Minerva left the chamber. Minerva returned to her office and asked her elf to create permanent copies of all the books in her library that weren't already in the tower's library and add them to the library.
Saturday, June 19, 1993
Great Hall, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
8:15 A.M.
Dumbledore rose from his chair. Casting a sonorous, he said, "Good morning, dear students. This year has been very trying for each of us. Few of our friends had been petrified by Slytherin's monster. Thanks to heroic deeds of some, the monster was identified and killed, thus ridding our school of the painful misery. Our resident Head of Herbology, Professor Sprout was able to grow Mandrakes which were used by Potions Master Snape to make the Mandrake Restorative Draught. It gives me great pleasure to announce that Madam Pomfrey had successfully administered the potion last night and the victims have been declared healthy this morning."
At this announcement, the doors to the Great Hall flew open and in walked the students who had been petrified. Harry looked towards the door with anticipation. One by one everyone entered. Hermione was the last of them. Hermione looked at Harry and sprinted towards him. Harry saw Hermione sprinting towards him and set off for her himself. They embraced each other. Harry said, "I am glad you're back, Hermione. I missed you so much."
Hermione blushed at Harry's statement. She replied, "I could hear you, you know. You kept me sane." Harry hugged her once again at this. She continued, "You did it. I knew you could do it."
"I couldn't have done it without you, Hermione", replied Harry. Dumbledore cleared his throat and looked at them with twinkling eyes. Harry and Hermione, who were now embarrassed let go of each other and took seats at the table.
Dumbledore continued, "I would also like to welcome our Keeper of Keys and Grounds, Rubeus Hagrid, back to Hogwarts. He was cleared of any wrongdoing by the ministry." The gates opened again, and in walked Hagrid.
He walked towards the staff table but stopped when he reached near Harry. He looked at Harry and said, "Thank ye, 'arry." Harry got off his seat and hugged the half-giant who squeezed Harry in return. Wiping a tear, Hagrid walked to the staff table and took his seat.
Dumbledore continued, "It is my pleasure to announce that the heroic deeds haven't been forgotten and will be duly rewarded. For that, I would like to welcome Lady Regent Amelia Bones of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Bones. She is here representing the Board of Governors. She is also the head of DMLE. Please give her a round of applause."
The Great Hall broke into a thunderous applause as the monocled witch walked in dressed in formal robes. Her robes had the Ministry emblem and the emblem of House of Bones on the left side of chest. On her right sleeve, there were many smaller emblems of houses, each of them belonging to the allies of House of Bones. She reached the lectern, placed a sheaf of parchment, cast a sonorous and began, "Thank you for the warm welcome. Good morning dear students and staff members. First of all, on behalf of the Board of Governors, I would like to apologize to you for this year's incidents. We want to assure you that we will take better measures from next year to avoid such disastrous incidents. This is a school. You should be able to study without having to worry for a threat to your life. We will do our best from now on."
She paused for a small round of applause. She raised her hand to stop the applause and continued, "Having received all pertinent information regarding the Chamber of Secrets, the Board has decided to award the students responsible for helping out in the events. Each of the student awardees will be presented with an Award for Special Services to the School along with 5,000 galleons. Professors Sprout and Snape, and Madam Pomfrey will be awarded with 5,000 galleons each as well. When I call your name, please come forward to receive your award."
There was a silence. Everyone wanted to know the names of the students. Amelia continued, "We will start with the members of staff first. Professor Sprout. Without her ability to grow Mandrakes, it would have been difficult to cure our petrified students." There was a huge round of applause, the loudest being from Hufflepuff, as Professor Sprout got off her seat and walked up to Amelia to receive her prize. After Professor Sprout had taken her seat, Amelia said, "Professor Snape. Without his abilities as a potions master to create the draught, the cure wouldn't have been possible either." There was a soft round of applause in comparison to the one Professor Sprout received. Snape received his prize and returned to his seat. Amelia continued, "Madam Pomfrey. She had looked after all the petrified students in her care day and night." There was another round of applause as the mediwitch walked across to receive her prize.
The hall had gone silent again in anticipation of the names of the students. Amelia began, "I would like to call Mr. Neville Longbottom. Mr. Longbottom spent most of his free time assisting Professor Sprout to look after and grow Mandrakes, which in itself requires great skill in Herbology." The Gryffindor table erupted in a huge round of applause. Neville sat shocked in his seat, unable to comprehend what had just happened. Harry looked at Neville with pride in his eyes. Dumbledore and Snape stared in disbelief. Harry elbowed Neville who then left his seat and walked up to the lectern to receive his award. The applause died as soon as Neville returned to the table.
"Next, I'd like to call Mr. Ronald Weasley. Mr. Weasley showed great courage in entering the Chamber to save the captured victim despite the fact that he had a broken wand." The Gryffindor table broke into another round of applause as the red-haired wizard left his seat to receive his award. He had a smug look on his face. Albus Dumbledore looked very pleased as well. He had always planned on honoring the youngest Weasley male. Ron retook his seat and Amelia continued.
"The next person I would like to call is Miss Hermione Granger. I was informed from a very reliable source that it was Miss Granger who had identified that the Slytherin's monster was a basilisk. She was petrified trying to save Miss Penelope Clearwater from death." There was a louder applause this time. The entire school but for a handful of Slytherins applauded for her. Harry looked very proud. He prodded Hermione to leave her seat and receive her award. Ron looked jealous. Harry decided to file away the information for later. Hermione left her seat and walked up slowly to receiver her award.
As soon as Hermione had taken her seat, Amelia said, "The last student I'd like to call up is Mr. Harry Potter. Mr. Potter entered the Chamber proper and battled with the basilisk on his own. The battle ended with Mr. Potter slaying the basilisk and saving the captured victim. Had Mr. Potter been slightly late, the captive victim would have been dead. As the Head of DMLE, I can assure you that what Mr. Potter achieved down there is nothing short of miraculous. My best trained aurors might not have been able to do so. Mr. Potter was struck by a fang of the basilisk but survived due to Fawkes the phoenix's tears." At this statement, Hermione grasped Harry's hand with full force. The entire school erupted in a thunderous round of applause.
Harry could feel every pair of eyes on him when he turned to Hermione and said, "I am alright now. I will be back soon. Please calm down." When Hermione's grip wouldn't loosen, Harry called, "Rowena!". With a flash of blue flames, Rowena appeared in the Great Hall. Sensing Harry's need to calm Hermione, Rowena started to trill a calming song. Due to her song, Hermione's grip on Harry loosened. Rowena landed in front of Hermione and nuzzled her beak against Hermione's temple. Harry walked up and received his award. Amelia watched the young wizard walk back to his seat in amazement. As soon as Harry took his seat, Hermione gripped Harry again. Everyone's attention was now on the beautiful blue phoenix that Harry was petting. He whispered to Rowena, "Thanks Rowena. I will call you and Godric later this afternoon." With an affirmative, Rowena disappeared with a flash. Harry looked at Dumbledore who stared at him in horror.
Dumbledore thought, How did he get his hands on that phoenix? Does it mean he has gotten his thunderbird as well? Did it happen over the summer itself? That would explain why the bird looked grown up. What else have you been hiding, Mr. Potter?
Amelia cleared her throat, and everyone turned to her, "Thank you for being patient. That was all from the Board of Governors. You may now have your breakfast in peace." She released her sonorous and stepped down from the raised platform. She walked towards her niece, Susan Bones and had a brief conversation with her. Susan left the Hufflepuff table and followed her aunt to the Gryffindor table. They came at a halt beside Harry, who was seated between Neville and Hermione. Amelia cast a silencing charm around the five and said, "Good morning, Mr. Potter."
Harry smiled at her and said, "Good morning, Lady Regent Bones of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Bones. It is good to see you. Please call me Harry."
"Out with the formalities, Harry. Call me Aunt Amy", chuckled Amelia. She continued, "This is my niece and your godsister, Susan Bones. Your mother was her godmother."
"Hello Susan", began Harry, "I am Harry Potter. Nice to meet you."
"Everyone knows who you are Harry", chuckled Susan. "Nice to meet you as well. However, first of all, I'd like to apologize for my part in the Heir of Slytherin drama."
"It's alright, Susan. You are already forgiven", replied Harry.
"Thank you", smiled Susan. "My auntie says you have something to tell me."
"Ah, yes", replied Harry, "I do. Meet me in Professor McGonagall's office at 2 P.M.. Can you do me a favor?"
"Sure", answered Susan. "What do you need?"
"Can you also bring Luna Lovegood with you?" asked Harry. "She is a first year Ravenclaw."
"Sure", replied Susan.
"Thank you, Susan", said Harry. "Please don't be late."
"I won't", affirmed Susan.
Amelia said, "Quite a way to introduce Rowena to Hogwarts, Harry."
"Ah, well", Harry began, "Hermione had me in a death grip when you said about the basilisk biting me. She wouldn't calm down. I didn't have any other choice. It wouldn't look good to keep you waiting on the lectern now, would it, Aunt Amy?"
Hermione replied in a sheepish tone, "Sorry, I was just worried." She continued in a normal voice, "However, when did you meet Rowena? And who is Godric? What is going on Harry? I have been petrified for few weeks and it's like thousands of things have changed. For instance, you are more articulate than before, you have a phoenix, you know about the house structure and you seem more confident than before. What happened to you while I was petrified Harry?"
Before Harry could reply, Susan butted in, "I have the same questions. I mean not that I was petrified but I just saw an instant change in you as well."
Neville chuckled at Harry's puzzled look and decided to help him out. "I believe that is what Harry wants to talk about when he said to meet at Professor's McGonagall's office at 2 P.M.." Turning to Hermione, he said, "Yes, Hermione. You are also invited but please don't mention about it to Weasley or Dumbledore. You'll find out everything after the meeting. I am sure whatever Harry and Auntie Min have planned will bring us up to speed. My gran told me a few things, but she told me that Harry planned on telling us everything himself."
"Eh, 'Auntie Min'? Who is she?", asked Susan, puzzled.
Amelia chuckled, "That would be Professor McGonagall. She is James Potter's godmother. That makes her an honorary grandmother to Harry. He calls her Auntie Min when in private. Since Neville is Harry's godbrother, I reckon he's carried on with the tradition as well."
It was the two young witches who guffawed with laughter now. Dumbledore was watching the entire interaction. He was confused. He couldn't hear a single noise from them which meant they had placed a silencing charm. He looked at Ron and was a little enraged. The young redhead was busy eating and talking to the students nearby, oblivious to the fact that he had been left out of a conversation. Dumbledore felt like life wasn't fair to him. He wanted to know everything about Harry and yet everything since Sirius' trial had gone downhill for him. What in the name of Merlin's saggy balls was going on?
"Alright", continued Amelia, "I will see you guys later. It was nice to meet you Miss Granger, Neville."
"Please call me Hermione", said Hermione.
"Only if you call me Aunt Amy/Amelia or Auntie Am/Amelia", replied Amelia.
"Yes, Aunt Amy", chuckled Hermione. "I plan on calling Professor McGonagall Auntie Min as well."
"Good. Minerva will be happy to have a few more honorary grandkids", laughed Amelia. "Just don't go around calling her that in public." Amelia looked at Harry and said, "I happen to know a certain group who'd have done that."
"I believe they did that, auntie", replied Harry without missing a beat. "It was in both their journals." The three students were staring at Harry in confusion. Harry said, "My father and his group of friends, the Marauders, called her Auntie Min from time to time after their third year. Well, everyone but Peter Pettigrew." Everybody but Hermione cursed at that name. When Hermione looked at them in confusion, Harry said, "Neville and I have that day's newspaper. We will show you later." Continuing on his prior comment, he said, "My mother also started calling her Auntie Min later on."
"Alright, I'll leave you kids at it", said Amelia. "I will see you all at King's Cross soon."
"Bye auntie", the four chorused together and giggled. Amelia chuckled as she cancelled the silencing charm and walked away. Susan agreed to meet up with them at 2 P.M. along with Luna and left. Harry, Hermione and Neville sat down for breakfast.
Minerva's office, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
2:00 P.M.
Harry, Neville and Hermione reached Minerva's office and knocked at her door. Having received Minerva's permission to enter, they entered. Neville and Hermione were surprised to find Professors Flitwick and Sprout as well. They turned towards Harry who looked as if he had known all along, which of course he did. Harry took charge as he began, "Good afternoon, Professors McGonagall, Flitwick and Sprout. Thank you for letting me use your office, Auntie Min."
"Aye, lad", chuckled Minerva. "Don't make me regret it."
"You wound me, auntie", said Harry, putting his hand on his chest and faking heartache.
"If I had known you had so much of James in you, I would be assigning you detentions every night", huffed Minerva. Everybody laughed at their antics. "You should get on with it, Harry. We obviously have much to show and tell."
Nodding his head, Harry said, "Yes, yes. Auntie Min and I would like to thank you all of you for being here. I am not sure who knows how much but we intend to make sure that by dinner tonight, everyone in this room is on the same page as Auntie Min and me. There are a few people outside the castle walls who know everything as well." Harry paused for everyone to finish processing what he had said. He continued, "However, we need to move to a secret part of the castle that I have set up already with the help of Lady Hogwarts. As I am an heir to the Houses of Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, I can speak with Lady Hogwarts. I will have to relay the location of our meeting place. I can only do so by looking into the person's eyes and inviting them. It is a form of Fidelius charm that was put into effect by Lady Rowena Ravenclaw. I would like to begin with Professor Sprout." He turned to Professor Flitwick and said, "Professor Flitwick, try your best to listen to what I say to Professor Sprout." Professor Flitwick nodded his head. Harry turned to Professor Sprout, looked into her eyes and said, "Professor Sprout, I invite you to the Tower of Gryffindor Chamber."
"Oh, oh, I know where it is", began Professor Sprout. "I had never thought that there was an entry way there."
"All I heard was Professor Sprout 'buzzzzzzzzzzzzz'", said Flitwick, amused by the enchantment. "This is an amazing bit of magic. No wonder Lady Ravenclaw prized wit above everything else." Everyone chuckled at the miniature professor's enthusiasm. One by one, Harry informed them of the location.
After he had informed them of the location, he said, "Perfect. We will now head there. We will probably be in there for two to three hours. Professors, can you cast disillusionment charms on us?"
Lady Hogwarts replied, 'My Lord, I will shield your party from anyone's eyes. Whenever you or one of your group members want to enter the tower, all they need to do is think about it and I will shield you and them from others' sight.'
Harry replied, 'Thank you, my Lady. It is brilliant piece of magic.'
'You are welcome, my Lord.'
Harry relayed his conversation to the entire group. Professor Flitwick replied, "Astounding. The enchantments in the castle are literally intent based." The group began to leave Minerva's office in batches and headed to the tower. Harry, Hermione and Neville left first, followed by Professor Sprout and Susan. They were followed by Professor Flitwick and Luna. Minerva was the last to leave.
On his way to the tower, Harry was a bit anxious. He was about to reveal all his secrets to this group. He knew for sure that things would never be the same after everything was out in the open. He had an intuition that he could trust everyone in the group. He recalled his thoughts about everyone in this group other than Minerva. Hermione and he had been best of friends ever since the Halloween of first year. She had always looked out for him. Whenever he ended up in the Hospital Wing, she stayed right by his side. Whenever he was with her, he could feel her desire to protect him. He was sure that he wasn't wrong about Hermione. Thinking of Neville, he felt good. Ever since Neville had returned after wand shopping, Neville had been talking to him everyday about all the lessons his grandmother had him take for his future Lordship. They would also just sit and talk about their hobbies and their parents. He didn't have an opinion about Susan and Luna yet but as their godbrother, he wanted to do enough for their protection. Even if they couldn't help him much, he would help them out. He had read about Professor Flitwick in his parents' journals. They had enjoyed his classes, especially his mum. According to Auntie Min, he had agreed to train them to duel. There was nobody better to learn dueling from according to them. He didn't have an opinion about Professor Sprout either. Sure, she was a great professor and always helped out her students, but that was all he knew about her.
Hermione was worried. From what little she had heard from Harry and Neville, she could gather quite a lot of things had happened while she was petrified. Apart from the obvious changes she had seen in Harry, she had just discovered that Harry could talk to Lady Hogwarts as a descendant of Gryffindor and Ravenclaw. She could also see that Harry was now surer of himself and didn't mind being in charge of a conversation. She had read about Harry's godfather's false imprisonment a couple of hours ago and raged. Though she didn't know the extent of the abuse, she had an inkling that Harry had been abused. She was happy for Harry, but she was angry at the authorities for what they had done to his blood-adopted father. She couldn't understand how Dumbledore could do this to Harry. Little did she know that by the end of the meeting, she would have lost all trust in Dumbledore.
Neville was determined to stand beside his godbrother. His grandmother had told him about how Longbottoms and Potters had always looked after each other's back. Growing up, his gran had told him about the camaraderie that his father had shared with his godfather. When Neville had joined Hogwarts, he wasn't very sure of himself and had absolute zero self-confidence. He had begun to notice, that ever since he had bought his own wand, he was getting more confident in his magical prowess. He vowed to himself that he would go out of his way for Harry as he was doing for them. He knew he had a big role to play in whatever the future held for them, and he was going to work hard to fulfill his role.
Susan had been told about her godbrother, Harry, right before she had come to Hogwarts for her first year. Her aunt had told her to look out for him and befriend him. In her first year, she had always seen Harry with Ron and Hermione. She didn't want to feel like an outsider which is why she had stayed away. She didn't know much about him, but she knew there had been a change in him since last week. She was surprised that her aunt had known about it. She was more surprised when she came to know that Harry wanted to share it with her. She didn't know what changed, but if her aunt had already given him her permission to share it with her, she wasn't going to back down. Her aunt had also said that she trusted Harry which meant that Susan would trust Harry as well.
Luna was, well, Luna. She had a dreamy look as she walked beside Professor Flitwick. Her daddy had always said that there will soon come a time when her godbrother would turn to her for help and she needed to be ready for it. She had been secretly watching Harry with interest right from her first night at Hogwarts. He always seemed to have nargles till last week but since Sunday dinner she hadn't seen any nargle on him. She had had her first and only conversation with Harry an hour earlier in the Great Hall during lunch when Harry had come over to her to introduce himself and tell her about the meeting. She had silently observed the people in Harry's Auntie Min's office, and she could feel everyone's strong desire to help Harry. She might only be a first year, but she was going to give her absolute best. After all, someone had to warn the group of nargle infestation.
Everyone gathered at the common room of the tower. They were admiring the elegance of the things they had seen in the entry hall and common room when Harry cleared his throat to draw everyone's attention. "We will have a tour later", began Harry. "Since we have a lot to cover, we will be using a time dilation trunk that my parents had commissioned before their deaths. Please follow me into the library." Harry led them into the library. Minerva was at the back to make sure none of them were so busy admiring the chamber that they get left behind. Reaching the library, Harry watched the expressions of his friends and Professors Flitwick and Sprout in amusement. "Yes, yes", said Harry, "all of you have access to these books. Like I said, we have much to discuss after which we will explore this chamber. Auntie Min and I have a few suggestions as well." Everyone was now looking at Harry with anticipation. Harry led them to the area where the most beautiful looking trunk was placed. Harry said, "At the moment, it is keyed only to my magical signature. However, before we enter, I want to add your magical signatures to it."
Harry called them forward one by one. Each of them placed their right over a set of runes that accepted the magical signatures. "Perfect", began Harry, "the time dilation is currently set at one hour on the outside to a day on the inside of the trunk." He tapped on the trunk and it produced a flight of stairs. "Follow me", said Harry and took the stairs. One by one, each of them descended the stairs. They were amazed to see the exact replica of the entry hall they had seen in the tower. "I got it redesigned yesterday", said Harry. "The design now is similar to the tower." He led them into the formal sitting room. Everyone took seats. Harry called for Star who served them snacks, juice, tea and coffee. "Last Friday, June 11, when I was in the Headmaster's office..", began Harry and told them about everything that had happened since. He told them about his conversation with Adrian and the dream about Godric Gryffindor and Rowena Ravenclaw. After he had told them about the dream, he showed them a memory of his dream using the projector pensieve. He also passed around the note that he had found in his pocket when he had woken up.
He followed it up with his conversation with the elves and his letter to Director Ragnok. He showed them the memory of his conversation with the elves. After this, Minerva told everyone about the letter she had received and how she had tricked the Headmaster into letting her take Harry out of the castle. She projected the memory of her conversation with Albus and passed around the note she had received from the Director. Harry followed it up with the memory of their first meeting with Director Ragnok. When they reached the part in the memory when the letters were being read, Harry passed a copy of all the three letters to each of them. He watched everyone's face as it went through various emotions. Hermione left her seat and rushed to Harry. She gave Harry a crushing hug and sobbed. Harry rubbed her back as he tried to calm her down. Everyone was shocked at what they had just read. Minerva called for a ten-minute break. Harry called for Rowena and Godric. Rowena appeared with a flash of blue flames while Godric appeared with a thunder. Harry introduced his familiars to everyone. Rowena, sensing the group's emotions, began to sing a calming song. Everyone's moods changed for the better after a few minutes. Minerva transfigured two pieces of parchment into perches for the birds, who happily took them. Star popped in with assortment of fruits for them.
Harry resumed the memory, and they reached the part where the Wills were read. Harry paused the memory and passed around copies of the Wills. This time the group members were cursing at the top of their lungs. Rowena started with a soothing song. This process went on for every revelation that angered them. The blood test, the money laundering, the secret of horcrux, Harry's trials since joining Hogwarts, his memory of Dumbledore trying to confound him, Minerva's memory of the emergency session where Dumbledore tried to prevent change in Harry's guardianship. There were a few moments of genuine smiles as well. For example, learning about Hermione's possible magical ancestry, Harry's plan of basilisk money and fangs (though Hermione and Neville hesitated a bit), Augusta's plan to get Dumbledore and Snape away from the school, Harry taking over the Elder Wand, their plan for Lily's keep and Harry's Lordships. After they had gone through every memory, Harry began, "Now that everyone knows all that has happened, we can explore the trunk and then explore the tower." Harry showed them around the trunk. Everyone was pleased with the design and the thoughtfulness behind it. Once they had explored the trunk, they left it for the tower. It had been a little more than half an hour since they had entered the trunk. Arriving at the tower's library, Harry took them on a tour of the tower.
After a tour, they sat down in the common room. Dippy served them refreshments. Harry began, "Currently, the library in here has all the books from Hogwarts library, all the books from the libraries of Houses of Emrys, Peverell, Potter, Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Slytherin, Hufflepuff and Ross. It also has books from the restricted section of the library and all those books the meddlesome old coot had removed from the library. There are also a few books that were already in the chamber when I began setting it up a couple of days ago. Tabby, another Potter elf, will be adding a copy of all the textbooks and supporting books required for the seven years of schooling at Hogwarts. I am going to add books from House of Black over the summer after I speak to Padfoot. The library is enchanted to always have a copy of the book even if one of us has taken one from the shelf for reading. There are no Family Grimoires as they can be harmful to people not of that family." Harry paused to sip juice. He continued, "The trunk's library also has the same books, and so will the library at Lily's Keep."
"If I am the heiress to the Houses of Dagworth-Granger and Draven, I will add the books from my library as well", said Hermione.
"I will add the books from House of Longbottom", added Neville.
"As will I from House of Bones", said Susan.
"Parts of our library has been lost over the years", began Luna, "however, whatever I can find, I will add."
"That is brilliant", began Minerva. "I was going to request you all to do it anyway."
"Harry, I like what you've done here", said Professor Flitwick. "Since this term is almost at end, I believe it will be better that Minerva, Pomona and I devise a plan to give you five extra lessons next year onwards. Of course, most of our lessons will be scheduled during the weekends in the classrooms of the tower or the trunk, depending on the lesson."
"Thank you, professor", replied Hermione.
"I will be teaching potions to you people", said Pomona. "Herbology and potions are linked with each other."
"Thank you, professor", replied Harry. "I don't mean to be rude, but Snape doesn't teach much. He hates me just because I am my father's son."
"Oh, I would like to see how he copes after tomorrow's meeting with the Board", chuckled Filius.
Minerva said, "The Board has already finalized next year's DADA professor." She turned to Harry and continued, "You'll be happy to know Mr. Lupin will be here as the DADA professor next year. He can teach History of Magic to you people as well."
"Brilliant", exclaimed Harry.
Minerva continued, "I will be giving you extra lessons in Transfiguration, Arithmancy and Magical Theory. Sirius will be assisting me on occasions. He will also give you lessons on combat training along with Amelia and Dora Tonks. Augusta will give you lessons on etiquettes and politics. Ted and Senior Account Manager Ragnok XII will give you lessons on estate management. Remus will give you extra lessons on DADA and History of Magic. He will also assist Filius in dueling. Filius will be in charge of charms and runes. Pomona will help you in potions along with Healer Tonks. I have been in touch with Mr. Lovegood as well. He was very eager to teach you about ritual magic."
"Wow", exclaimed Hermione, "this is much more than what Hogwarts offers."
"Not really", said Harry and everyone looked at him. "During my time in the Time Chamber, I had come across a paragraph while reading about Potter Family History. Hogwarts, since its inception, had all the courses required to train a wizard/witch to lead a proper life after graduation. The magical community doesn't have any other type of school to prepare them for the mundane things. It was taught as a part of Hogwarts' curriculum. It changed over the years, though I don't know when."
"Recently", said Minerva. "After the death of James and Lily. The Board lost its meaning and the curriculum kept getting reduced for unknown reasons, though now I feel it was for some evil misplaced idea."
"It's no use thinking about it, Minerva", said Filius. "We will prepare these as they are the most affected students. Harry comes from the most respectable family lines yet hasn't been taught their ways. Hermione might actually be from a very respected family but as she is mundane-born, she cannot be taught by her parents. Susan, Neville and Luna might have been taught everything growing up, but their childhoods were plagued by war and other events that have affected their growth as well. I would like to teach every student but now that I know that Harry and his friends will be targeted for a stupid prophecy, I want to, at the least, prepare these five to the best of my abilities."
"Thank you, Uncle Fil", chorused the five. Harry continued, "Once the war is over, Albus will no longer be the Headmaster. We will go about making the changes in curriculum. Of course, that doesn't mean we won't pull pranks on the old fool and his pet greasy bastard."
"Minerva, these scoundrels are going to be the death of us", chuckled Filius.
"It's about time Hogwarts had a group of pranksters like the Marauders", mused Minerva.
"Auntie Min", began Luna, "is it possible for me to skip my second year and join these four here?"
"It is possible, Luna", replied Minerva. "I was about to bring that up next. You are the top student in your year. Your grades are only below Hermione's from last year. You can apply to take up an advancement test which will be held in the week of August 16. If you pass them with EEs or higher, you can skip the second year and join them in their third-year classes."
"We will help you preparing for it, Luna", added Hermione.
"Thank you", replied Luna. "In that case, I would like to sit for advancement test."
"Perfect", said Minerva, "Now, we won't be taking up all of your weekends. For example, as you will be third-years, you will have Hogsmeade weekends. We won't schedule classes on Hogsmeade weekends. On other weekends, you'll have two sessions on each day. The morning session will be between breakfast and lunch, and the second will be after lunch. As Filius has already mentioned, depending upon the time requirement for the planned lesson, we will decide between the tower and the trunk. You won't be assigned any assignments from these lessons, but we expect that you five will take up the top five spots in your year. Over this summer, we want you to practice the spells you've already been taught so that you can cast them without any wand movement and incantation. The wards at Lily's Keep will prevent the ministry from detecting any underage magic."
"I was going to make them do that anyway", replied Hermione.
"Auntie Min, do you think Hermione will let us be without practicing and studying over the summer?", chuckled Harry.
"Oh, don't you worry, Harry", retorted Hermione, "I already have a tentative schedule in my mind."
"Good", chuckled Susan, "From all the memories I have watched of his, he needs to be smarter if he plans on courting death every now and then." Everyone laughed at Susan's statement as Harry pouted in fake annoyance.
"Alright", said Minerva and checked the time. "We have been here for more than two hours now. I am leaving. You people, don't be late for dinner."
"We won't", said Hermione.
"Auntie Min, Director Ragnok and his team will be here at 10:15 A.M. tomorrow. Do you think we should take the other victims with us?", asked Harry.
"I don't think it's a good idea to show them the beast. They may get nightmares. They will be told that the basilisk was sold when they receive the gold", replied Minerva.
"I agree with Minerva", added Pomona.
"That settles it", said Harry. "The five of us and you three will head down the Chamber. Lady Hogwarts had told me that there was a private study inside the chamber. We will add those books as well."
Minerva nodded and left with the professors. Harry and his friends stayed behind and chatted. After another hour, they left the tower, each with a book they had decided to read. Harry's friends had taken books on Mind Arts to learn Occlumency while Harry had picked up a book about Legilimency.