A/N: Harry Potter and his world belongs to J.K. Rowling, Warner Brothers and anyone that has received licensing rights. I am grateful she gives us the privilege of playing in her world.
My awesome readers, I present another installment that I hope you all enjoy.
-oOo-
Chapter 26
-oOo-
December 22, 1994
London, England
They sat in the gallery of the Wizengamot chambers. Looking around, Harry had the sense that things were much more tense than they had been back in June. He also noticed that the group around them was much larger. Both Abbotts, Davises, Greengrasses were joined by Potter, his ward, Bones, Longbottom, Patil and Bulstrode heirs.
On the floor, Lord Greengrass sat along the central aisle. Amelia sat on the other side. The group around them was clearly the largest group.
In their group, Hermione sat to his left, Daphne to his right. Neville and Tracey next to Hermione. Susan, Hannah and Ernie were before them. Hannah's brother, George, sat with a girl that Harry hadn't met before. Roger sat next to George. Behind them sat the Patil twins and Millie.
Other members of about twenty other Houses sat around them, all the children in the center.
Today, Draco Malfoy, his mother, and those still left in their alliance sat on the far side of the gallery. Out of his normal group, Harry only saw Nott, Parkinson and Moon. There were also less than he remembered from the summer solstice meet.
After the two attempts on him and Daphne, not to mention Neville and Tracey now, Harry was also looking around for any signs of trouble. Hermione was starting to say he was paranoid, constantly looking at the Marauders map a few times a day to make sure there wasn't anyone on the grounds that shouldn't be. Daphne thought he was being prudent. Harry didn't miss that she was looking at most corners with a discerning eye. The looks from half of Slytherin didn't help much either.
As they waited for the session to start, he sat tall next to Daphne, not fidgeting as much as he had before. They would be here for the morning, and then all those attending the ball tonight would be taking a portkey back to Hogsmeade at the noon recess, though many were expecting that to be later with the two pieces of explosive legislation that were to be voted on before new business was to be taken up.
The gavel banged on the tall stone lectern. "The two-hundred and eighty-seventh Winter Solstice meeting of the Wizengamot shall be called to order. Court Scribe, please conduct a roll call and status of all Houses," the Minister said in a tense tone.
It was unmistakable that Minister Fudge was on edge. Eight of his strongest supporters were either missing, in Azkaban or awaiting trial. Nine votes were represented in those eight Houses. As Daphne had put it, many feared the silent coop that had started with their alliance was picking up steam. If the berks hadn't tried to kill them or do other illegal activities, then they would still be on the Wizengamot.
Harry had a much different experience this time, compared to six months ago. He looked at the way people were sitting. Daphne pointed out things about silent interactions or hushed conversations. Harry was pleased to see he picked out about half of it without her indicating what was going on.
As the last of the House rolls were called, Harry was a little surprised by the counts. Eight Houses were missing for the Dark Alliance, but twelve had come out of 'retirement'. Harry and Daphne didn't know where their loyalties would fall, especially where most looked older than Dumbledore... Dumbledore!
Harry was still angry at the old man and wished he would come out of hiding. If anyone deserved a Wizengamot trial, that man did.
"First order of business is to put forward the new legislation," Minister Fudge began.
Five people stood up quickly in protest. "The petitions have to be heard first," Lady Zabini called out over the others.
Fudge made a face and after almost ten minutes of arguing, the man was forced to concede. He simply didn't have enough votes now to overrule those of the Neutral and Moderates. As Harry watched Madam Bones and Lord Greengrass deftly steer many, Harry had the inkling this was what Daphne had truly meant that he would be the leader of their Alliance. It was like watching a battle, one he had never understood. Perhaps he should start playing Ron in chess again to learn how to use strategies and tactics to get what you wanted?
"You seem very interested in this today," Daphne said next to him.
"I didn't understand before," he told her.
She nodded slightly. "Do you still want a book?"
He gave a small smile before leveling his face. "Not right now."
Her hand brushed the back of his, and he let her fingers slide between his. They hid the action between their legs. "Have you noticed Lord Malfoy?"
"You mean the looks he keeps casting towards your father?"
"Yes. I am not sure I am comfortable with that," she told him.
Harry looked up again, seeing the heavy Auror presence in the gallery. "Amelia doesn't think they will do anything in here. A duel or other action with wands could be the dementors kiss," Harry replied.
Neville was looking down at the floor with a hard look. "I know it's Malfoy that has caused this," he said.
Tracey took Neville's hand, pulling it to her lap, not even attempting to hide it like Daphne was between their legs.
"Will you all be quiet? They are trying to discuss the petitions to add more Houses," Hermione told them, looking intently down at the floor.
"The Wizengamot has voted to disband those seats!" Lord Parkinson was yelling over the crowd. They had been told the reintroduction of four houses would probably be contentious.
"Evidence is being presented that it was line-theft that led to those expulsions from the Wizengamot. Per our laws, all such houses are to be presented and allowed a petition to reclaim their seats," Amelia said, looking towards Lord Parkinson.
"Just wait until Gran is well again. She is going to destroy Lord Parkinson and the others," Neville said quietly.
"Neville, they will get their just rewards. I know father already has plans," Tracey spoke up.
"Just wait until Auntie gets the next bill passed," Susan added.
Harry grinned. He was waiting for that. If the fight on the floor about readmitting four Houses was tense, the next would be explosive.
Neville chuckled a little darkly. Harry looked a little worriedly at his friend. Neville had been very angry since Barty Crouch Junior had been found this fall. The near death of his grandmother and Tracey had hardened him. Harry felt that they all needed to have justice served, but Harry was still worried about Neville.
Harry sighed. Daphne increased the pressure of her fingers holding his. "You can still rethink this," she said. They had had many conversations over the last two weeks, both of them arguing for and against. Amelia, Sirius, Susan and him had sat and talked for hours when they had come home earlier in the week.
Harry shook his head. "I have made this decision and I think it the right one."
Daphne nodded. "I do as well."
It was another twenty minutes before four Houses, all stolen by Dumbledore, had been voted to rejoin the rolls. Then, Amelia stood up. "Chief Warlock Doge, I have a petition, signed by a hundred and forty-eight houses, to consider a piece of legislation before the new and old business is reviewed."
The Minister, now having been relieved of his duties with the rolls officially recognized, looked alarmed. As did many other on both the Dark and Light sides. This was highly unusual. Harry grinned. He had a lot to learn from Amelia and Anders. Even with the training from Madam Bulstrode, Daphne had had to explain how unusual this was.
As long as eighty Houses signed such a petition, it had to be considered. If more than a hundred and twenty signed, it had to be voted on this session. The fact more than half had signed it was a sign of a major shift. No such petition had been able to be presented in decades.
"The presentation of a petition is recognized. Would Madam Bones please approach the dais and read the petition," the Chief Warlock indicated the one meant for members of the Wizengamot. There was murmuring all around the hall as Amelia walked up to the dais.
"If it would please the Wizengamot, Chief Warlock Doge and Minister Fudge, House Potter, Bones, Greengrass, Longbottom, Zabini and Davis present a petition to dissolve the protective laws that inhibit the DMLE from performing legal investigations," as she spoke, a half dozen Lords stood up, starting to shout at her. Amelia put her wand to her throat. "To perform such investigations, the unreasonable restrictions of use of veritaserum and Legilimency against those accused of heinous crimes and against other Wizengamot members..."
Her voice was drowned out as the floor broke out into a yelling match, mostly from the Dark or dark leaning Neutrals. Most of the core around Anders was quiet, a smug look on Daphne's father's face. By the time of the lunch recess, at a little after one, the vote had been delayed until after a short break.
They met Amelia and Anders in the Greengrass Offices today, being the closest to the hall. When Anders walked in, he was chuckling. "This is not going the way Fudge and Malfoy thought it would today," he was saying to Amelia.
"No. If Fudge tries to block it one more time, I am going to start proceedings for a vote of no confidence," Amelia stated.
"Why not do it now?" Harry asked as the door closed behind them. The Abbotts had already left to take Hannah back to Hogwarts. The Davises were taking Roger, Tracey and Neville back after a quick lunch. Harry was here with Hermione, Susan, Astoria and Daphne.
"As much as the man is an inept, corrupt jackal, he still has enough support to keep him in power. With the Light Houses leaning towards us at the moment with this bill, another blocking maneuver may be enough to push many of them over the edge," Anders said to him. He looked at Daphne holding his hand and nodded. "I see you and Daphne are growing closer?"
"Yes, sir," Harry said, feeling a little heat in his face and not sure why.
"Anders, leave them be," Iliana said. Harry didn't miss the look she gave him and her daughter. Harry wondered if Daphne had had a talk with her mother last night. Amelia had come to his room before bed. It had been very uncomfortable between them. Harry had never had 'the talk', but he was grateful it had been with Amelia. He feared to know how Sirius would have handled it.
"I agree with Harry though. Do you really think that many will still support Minister Fudge?" Iliana questioned.
Amelia spoke up. "We have had some feelers out for a few months. The Light Alliance still does not have a strong leader with Dumbledore and the Longbottoms gone. There is some infighting that I think will splinter the group, if it hasn't already. We need a sixty-percent majority to have a vote of no confidence, and as of this morning, we could only count on about fifty-two percent."
"Yes, not having Augusta hear today is probably dragging this out more. It will be nice to see her walking around again soon," said Anders.
That made them all quiet for a moment. "We should get you four back to Hogwarts. I am sure the girls would like some time to prepare for tonight," Iliana said to them.
"I wish you all to have a good time and I will be to Hogwarts on Friday a little before lunch to pick you, Hermione and Susan up," she told them.
"Amelia, would it be an imposition for you to take Daphne as well on Friday?" Iliana asked.
"Of course. Daphne is welcome to stay over with Hermione and Susan if she wants that night. The ceremony for their Order of Merlin will be at ten AM on New Year's Eve," Amelia offered.
"Daphne, would you like that?"
"Yes, mother," Daphne replied.
"Oh, we can talk all night. I'm sure Tipsy will let us make some biscuits," Susan said excitedly.
"I was not aware we were done discussing events today," Anders put to them.
Harry saw Amelia's eyebrow raise. "What else would you discuss with our heirs here?"
The man pursed his lips for a second. "What Scion's Potter decision on the blood feuds? They should be declared today if they are to be acknowledged before Lord Goyle's trial."
Amelia gave the man a hard look. He looked to Daphne, then Anders. Harry understood the implications. "I have decided that House Potter will not declare any blood feuds."
"Harry, you do understand what you stand to gain once Lord Goyle is found guilty?" Anders questioned.
Harry shook his head. "I am not going to absorb the lines of the Goyles or be responsible for the downfall of their house. Their line and Wizengamot seat will die with Lord Goyle, once he is convicted. They are dark and have been for generations. I won't accept that taint," he said with determination. "I also won't endanger Hermione."
Anders frowned. "That was not part of my council..."
"Father, Harry and I have talked about this, and I know he has talked about this with his regent and godfather. Would you wish for him to do something he does not wish, or to potentially force me to help him carry on a line that we know has been cursed by magic?" Daphne said, a bright blush on her neck.
Harry tried to keep his own down. The fact that they were intended for each other, and what that would really mean when they were old enough, had been a hard conversation with Amelia this week. Ether Daphne carried on the line or Harry took on a consort. He didn't like either path. It had been embarrassing more so because he was only fourteen and she would only turn fifteen next week. Harry wasn't really thinking of children yet.
Sirius, on the other hand, kept making jokes about him and Daphne that way.
"I agree with you, Harry," Hermione said in a hushed tone to him.
Amelia said in an affected tone, "We have talked about this, Anders."
Amelia didn't get to say anything else when the door flew open and Sirius marched in. There were shouts and a large commotion. "What happened?" Amelia questioned Sirius, immediately going into Head of the DMLE mode.
"Lord Winters called me off to the side. He was trying to bribe me, then reminded me of where the Black loyalties lay for generations," Sirius said angrily. "We got into a shouting match and then he started to grab at his left arm. I think he is having a heart attack. A Healer is already with him."
Amelia and Anders shared a look. "Sirius, I need a copy of the memory. Netters!" she called out. An Auror poked his head into the room. "Find out the condition of Lord Winters and then report back to me."
Susan looked concerned. "Will he be alright?"
Susan had a big heart at times. Sirius not as much. "Does it matter? This might give Malfoy and his cronies an excuse to push off the vote because a recognized Lord on the rolls is incapacitated at the moment."
"I don't care," Anders said. "We will fight that, and this will be voted on today. This makes it even more important for Harry to declare his blood feud and potentially claim regency over the Goyles," Anders pushed.
"No," Harry stated. "The Goyles will die as a Wizengamot House. I will not accept their magic."
"No one is going to force you, or ask again," Amelia said in a hard tone, staring at Anders. Daphne increased the pressure on his hand.
Iliana moved to her husband after a moment. "Is it really worth it to contaminate the Potter and potentially Greengrass blood to gain a vote this way?"
Anders looked away from Amelia to look at his wife. There was some unspoken conversation between them before the man sighed and his shoulders slumped. "No. It is just that they are one of the Twenty-Eight. It is another old bloodline that we are going to lose. Their blood can be cleansed, like ours, but perhaps you are right. My father would come back to haunt me if I was to do that to our blood again."
They both gripped each other's hands equally as hard.
Sirius looked between them. "Did you ask Harry to declare the blood feud?"
Amelia put a hand on his arm. "Sirius, it is taken care of now. Now, I think you all should be more concerned with the Yule Ball tonight."
"Auntie, what about the legislation?" Susan asked.
"Susie, don't worry about that right now. You still have a few years before you can take up your seat. We will handle it. Now, go back to Hogwarts and have a fun night with Ernie and your friends," she moved to hug her niece. A second later, she turned to him and Daphne. "You two stay out of trouble and keep an eye on each other. No fights or anything with the others."
Harry nodded. "I will make sure our friends stay away from the Slytherins that give us issues."
Sirius shook his head. "You are not to start anything either, pup. You sound just like James when he was about to get up to no good."
"Harry will not start anything. Headmistress McGonagall has made it very clear everyone is to be on their best behavior," Daphne said next to him.
Sirius nodded and then grinned. "Well, you don't have to start fights to get up to no good."
Harry narrowed his eyes at Sirius. He had teased Harry relentlessly after Daphne had left yesterday and today. Iliana must have gotten the innuendo as well. "I believe Scion Potter will be on his best behavior with our daughter as well," she said, giving Harry a look.
He stood tall, trying to keep his face blank. "I will not do anything to impinge Heiress Greengrass honour or so anything she says not too."
Iliana's eyes narrowed some this time. Sirius grin was wider. Amelia closed her eyes while her father didn't seem to notice as he looked at some papers on his desk. "Harry will behave," Amelia assured.
Harry would behave... within the bounds Daphne wanted to set, he assured himself. Sirius winked at him as they walked out with Iliana.
-oOo-
The same night...
Hogwarts, Scotland
Hermione was nervous. Parvati and Lavender had helped her get ready. Hermione was not into makeup and beautification like her dormmates. She had relied on Tipsy, Susan and Amelia to help her get ready for the cotillion.
As she looked in the mirror, she had a small smile come onto her face. "You look hot," Lavender told her. "How did you manage to get Blaise as your date anyways? He's almost as good looking as Harry and Neville are now."
Hermione bit her lip. "He asked me," she told Lavender. Over the last few months, she had come to enjoy her walks and conversations with Blaise. Under the cool, almost careless veneer, he was really intelligent and shared many of her views on needing change. More importantly was that he didn't brush her off when she started to talk about equal rights for everyone in the magical world. He also has some good ideas to actually make her plans work in the future.
Parvati came up with her hair lifted over her shoulders. "Can someone put this necklace on."
"Sure," Hermione offered, helping Parvati as Lavender finished slipping her dress on. It was still a half hour before they needed to walk down.
"I hope Ron is a good date tonight," Parvati commented.
"He is different," Hermione said. "I think he's grown up some."
"You and Harry don't hang out with him anymore," Lavender commented.
Hermione moved away from the mirror after tapping Parvati on her shoulder. Hermione thought that a complicated question. No, she did not spend any time with Ron outside their workouts and study groups. Frankly, she didn't want to. None of the people she now considered friends treated her like Ron used too. "No, we don't," she agreed, without giving any other explanation. "I think you will have fun tonight, Parvati."
The girl gave her a smile.
When they left the tower, Harry escorted her down with Neville walking on his other side. Being protected by House Potter meant Harry had the right to see her handed off. She knew he felt a little silly about it, but when required, he was every bit what Madam Bulstrode was instilling in them.
The lobby was crowded when they came down. It wasn't long to find Susan and Hannah with Ernie and Seamus Finnigan. Susan was in a marvelous silver dress that emphasized her red hair. Hannah was in an elegant blue dress that showed her curves were the best of all of them right now. Ernie looked very happy to have Susan on his arm. Seamus, not used to all this, looked like he wasn't sure what to do with Hannah. Luckily, she didn't look offended, holding her hands before her and laughing all the same.
"You look beautiful," Susan complimented her. Hermione bit her lip. "Not as beautiful as you and Hannah."
"Susan is very beautiful," Ernie agreed, causing Susan to flush.
Harry chuckled as she let go of his arm. "Where is everyone else?"
She looked around, not seeing many Slytherin faces.
"Not sure. Most of the Hufflepuffs came up together a few minutes ago," Hannah replied.
"I only see a few of the ones that were not at the Wizengamot today," Neville supplied.
Hermione saw Harry tense some. She put a hand on his arm. He was still being very tense and protective of everyone still. Neville looked just as tense. "They will be alright," she tried to soothe them.
"If they aren't here in five minutes, I am going to go find them," Harry told her.
"Not without me," Neville put in.
Ernie looked around. "You know I'll have your back, mate."
"Thanks," said Harry. "Nev and I will blast anyone off yours."
The boys all chuckled, and the girls didn't look as amused. Seamus was just standing on the edge of the group. They lollygagged about for a few before Susan nodded. "I don't think you have to look any longer," she said with a smirk.
Hermione chuckled to see both Neville and Harry staring at the stunning girls that had just walked up the stairs. Blaise was escorting Daphne and Tracey. Millicent was pulling up behind them with an older year boy that Hermione knew to be part of the Neutrals. Millicent waved to them and went off to a group with the older boy.
Meanwhile, Daphne walked over to them in a very nice light blue dress. Her hair was up and the way it cinched at her bodice and waist, there was little doubt she was a beautiful girl. Hermione leaned over, "I doubt Daphne will want to kiss you if you catch flies in your mouth."
Harry clamped his mouth tight, and she laughed.
Tracey was in an elegant burgundy dress that had Neville just s slack jawed. Between them stood the regal looking dark skin boy that had been starting to invade her dreams many nights. The way the dress robes fit him, it was obvious he was well built and when his dark eyes found hers, she found herself flushing a little. They walked up to them. Still holding her hand, Harry bowed, while she curtsied. Neville bowed next to them. Tracey, Blaise and Daphne did the same. "Scion Potter. Scion Longbottom," Blaise greeted them.
"Scion Thatcher," Harry responded. Harry was the highest-ranking member of them all, Neville being just slightly lower than him. Thus he was to acknowledge Blaise over Neville.
"May I present your intended, Heiress Greengrass?" Blaise offered, holding her hand out towards Harry.
Daphne looked very regal the way she was holding herself. This wasn't a formal ball, but Madam Bulstrode said they should treat it as such for practice. Harry took Daphne's hand, leaning down to kiss it. "It is an honour, Heiress Greengrass."
"Thank you, Scion Potter." Daphne moved to Harry's right side.
"Scion Longbottom, may I present Miss Davis, your intended?"
Tracey had a very proper face to match Neville's. He took her hand and kissed it. "You look very handsome tonight, Scion Longbottom."
"You... wow," Neville said a little unintelligently. Tracey giggled and Daphne shook her head.
"And here I thought you would be the babbling idiot," Hermione needled Harry and Daphne snorted to hide her laughter. Neville's face reddened and Tracey preened at the way she made Neville react.
Blaise chuckled before standing tall, his arms at his side. Harry knew what he had to do and turned towards Hermione. Taking her hand, she suddenly looked a little flustered. "Scion Thatcher, may I present Miss Granger, ward of House Potter."
Her insides were doing flips to have her hand lightly held in Harry's as he offered her to Blaise. Blaise bowed and she curtsied before he took her hand. "Miss Granger, it is an honour," Blaise said before taking her hand to his mouth. Hermione was very independent. She hated any idea of the loss of freedom of choice, people owning other people or someone not being equal to someone else...
On the other hand, there was something about a handsome young man kissing her hand. It was like the novels her mother had tried to keep from her. Hermione, more on autopilot from their lessons with Madam Bulstrode, than consciously replied. "The honour is mine, Scion Thatcher."
When he stood up, he had a smile on his face for a few seconds before taking on the mask they were all expected to use for times like this.
Susan, Hannah, Ernie, Seamus and Dean Thomas with Lavender Brown joined them as they waited for the doors to open. While they did, Hermione slipped her arm around Blaise's. Daphne and Tracey gave her amused looks and she glared at them for a moment. Hermione Granger could be just as proper as any societal debutante. She was determined to be.
"Where is Ron," Harry asked Dean and Seamus.
"Over with the Ravenclaws. He got a date with Parvati, and they are going to sit with her sister and a few others," Seamus told him.
"We should all get a table together," Hannah was saying.
"Why wouldn't we?" Susan questioned Hannah.
"One towards the Dance floor if we can," Tracey added with some excitement in her voice.
"Harry, will you dance with me at least once tonight?" Susan requested.
"Of course. I'll dance with all of you, if you want," he offered.
"Well, if you want, but I'm not really into boys that way," Blaise said in a flat tone.
Most of them laughed at Harry's face.
None of the other girls took him up on that offer. He was being Harry, but Daphne was sending vibes she wanted him as much as possible. Hermione figured she would get at least one dance with her best mate. Though, looking around, she was friends with most of the people standing around them.
"Would it be selfish of me to keep you to myself for the night?" Blaise whispered to her.
Hermione's heart beat hard against her chest. "I would like at least one dance with Harry," she replied.
He nodded. "I would figure that. I just want to make sure you have a good time."
She smiled broadly at the dark skin boy. "I already am."
He returned her smile.
When the door opened, Daphne and Harry took up the front of the line of their friends. Being the highest ranked in their group, it was their prerogative to go first or last. So many social rules...
Many were not paying attention, just happy to be having a school dance. There was loud talking, laughing and just a good feel to the air. She didn't miss other groups like them, now she knew what to look for. Knots of people, mostly allies or tied by family, were treating this more like an official affair. Those groups stood back as they walked by. Well, most of them. Malfoy made sure he got in line before them, even though he was ranked behind the Davises.
It was a slight she doubted many missed that were paying attention. Harry and Daphne didn't seem to care as they led them in and found a table just on the edge of the dance floor.
Walking into the Great Hall she was stunned to see the transformation. There were ice sculptures of sprites, dryads, satyrs and nymphs. They were dancing around. Snow was falling from the ceiling but disappearing the second it touched anything. Blue and white banners and tapestries now adorned most of the walls. They depicted Pictish rituals, sleighs through the snow, yeti or other snow creatures... dozens of them with dozens of scenes. It was the celebration of Yule as the wizards did it. She had not seen anything like before.
The hall also seemed wider and longer. Dozens of circular tables, able to seat up to twelve, where all over the hall by the doors. A huge dance floor with a raised stage for a band was at the far side of the hall. A roaring fire was going in a fireplace that was not usually used.
"Wicked," Dean said behind them.
Blaise held out her chair when they went to sit. They had Dean and Lavender on one side of them and Harry and Daphne on the other side. It was her spot, no matter the rank of Blaise, to have the honour of sitting next to Harry. Her honourary rank from Harry put her that high. It was foolish, but important.
Lavender looked at the glass plates with a gold rim. "That is dwarfish crystal," she said with some wonder. Hermione looked closer and realized the plates were not glass, but a finely polished crystal with an elaborate snowflake and holly design on it. She tried to keep her eyes from widening. A set of eight setting was over five-hundred galleons. She had seen it in Diagon Alley last summer and thought it would be something her parents would like until she saw the cost. She easily had the money from the basilisk sale, but her parents would never let her do that.
Blaise chuckled as she looked around. All the plates, glasses and goblets all looked like dwarfish crystal. "They didn't spare any expense, did they?"
"Mum said she used to attend the Yule Ball when she was a girl here. I think she asked Headmaster Dippets about the place settings, and he said an alumni donated them about two hundred years ago," Hannah told them.
Seamus ran his finger on the edge of the plate. "That is a solid gold rim," he said with a whistle.
They didn't get to say anything else as the Headmistress stood. "Quiet down, everyone," she said, her voice magically amplified. "I know you are very excited to get to our later festivities, but before we do that, Head St. Pierre of Magical Cooperation has a few words."
A man with slicked black hair, a mustache and looking rather nice in dress robes, stood up. She noticed that six chairs had not been filled yet at the table. "Thank you, Headmistress McGonagall." He looked around. "I know this is an exciting night. Hogwarts has not hosted a Yule Bal in many years and the Headmistress has expressed her desire for this to become an annual tradition again."
There was some clapping and excited comments. It took a moment for the hall to quiet again. "This year, though, this is as much about celebrating Yule, as it is about our Champions and the inter-school relations we have been trying to bolster. It is our hope that you are all making friends with those from all our schools and enjoying the competitions."
There was more clapping and a few wolf calls. Blaise, Neville and Harry looked like they wanted to laugh. Dean and Seamus did. Most of the girls just rolled their eyes at their dates.
The man gave an indulgent smile to the teens. "I see some have been making friends. Now, to introduce our Champions, the real stars of the night, I would like to invite them to enter."
Everyone turned towards the doors. Fleur Delacour was standing in the front of the line with a tall boy Harry didn't recognize. He must have been some seventh year. They knew Roger had wanted to ask her, but wound up asking a fellow seventh year, Wendy Wendyl from Ravenclaw.
Behind them was Victor Krum with a girl from Beauxbatons. He looked a little uncomfortable in the nice dress robes, but the girl next to him was beaming to be on his arm.
Last was Cedric Diggory with a pleased looking Cho Chang. "So, that is who she wanted," Daphne said quietly.
The girls that were around them understood. "What are you talking about?" Harry asked.
"Never you mind," Daphne softly replied. Blaise gave her a look. She wasn't going to say anything if Daphne wasn't. Hermione had meant it that day. She would stand right next to Daphne and fight anyone they needed too.
Dinner was a fun affair, most of them talking about their short break home and their early Christmas activities, though most of them recognized Yule over Christmas. Hermione was also excited they talked some about the Wizengamot meet. She had found it absolutely riveting though she may have been the only one to be that enthused about it.
After the Champions danced the opening dance, Blaise held a handout to her. "Ms. Granger, would you do me the honour?"
She smiled to see the dashing young man looking so formal and asking her so nicely. "I would be honoured," she said with a slight curtsy before taking his hand. He walked her out and they stood next to Harry and Daphne. Again, being a ward of House Potter put them more towards the center of the floor.
She liked it when his hand touched her waist and he held up her other hand. "If I haven't said it yet, you look absolutely gorgeous tonight," he told her just before the music started. She found herself momentarily shocked and tripped on the first beat before catching up to him.
He had a smirk on his face as he led her into the waltz. She tapped his shoulder. "You berk," she said quietly as they danced.
His smirk looked like he was pretty satisfied with what he had done. "But true."
The way his dark brown eyes danced when he said it had her blushing a little. Two could play at this game and she was determined to win. Tonight, just wouldn't be the night though. The second they stopped dancing and he bowed; she was forced to curtsy. As he came back up, she was about to remark on his dancing when he didn't stop at the proper distance and his mouth was suddenly on hers.
She froze. Her eyes wide.
His lips were soft on hers as he firmly pressed them to her own. He smelt really good, with some type of cologne. He moved her lips on her for a second and she closed her eyes, returning the motion.
When he pulled away, she was just standing there, her eyes closed, her face still tipped up, her lips puckered with a slight uptick on the sides, her heart pounding against her rib cage… until he pulled her along. She opened her eyes as she tripped again, held up by the strong arms of Blaise. He was leading her into the next waltz as she fumbled to keep up, eventually falling into step. The smile on his face was endearing, if not full of the trouble he was trying to make tonight.
She just looked up at him, a bit of shock and wonder on her face. No one had kissed her before. As the dance ended, a small smile was taking over. When he stopped, she was still clinging to the stance they needed for the waltz. He chuckled a little. "Are you well, Ms. Granger?"
She blinked a time or two. Her mouth worked to say something before she said, "I thought my first kiss would be longer."
He chuckled again and leaned down to peck her. "I was going to wait for the end of the night, but you do look beautiful."
Her face went into a full flush as she went on her toes to peck him. "You will give me a longer kiss later," she told him, a certain heat coming to her eyes.
His eyes seemed to darken as well. "As the lady wishes," he cheekily replied before switching her hand to a different position to take up a couples' dance. She was soon weaving in and out of Harry, Daphne, Neville, Tracey and then back to Blaise.
Tonight was going to be a brilliant night!
-oOo-
December 23, 1994
Hogwarts, Scotland
Tracey was tired. They had all been shuffled out of the Great Hall about midnight. She had dragged Neville off to a private alcove in the upper dungeons where they had snogged for a while.
She was forced to wear a turtleneck today. He had left a few love bites that had felt good at the time but couldn't be seen in public. The cream should make them disappear by tomorrow. What had felt better was Neville's hands exploring more. She had goosepimples remembering the way his hands had gently explored her chest. It was the first time she had allowed him that far and found she wanted him to do it again.
Daphne was the first one to join her in the common room. She had tried to get out before her roommates, so they didn't see the evidence of her fun time with her intended. Daphne sat on the couch next to her and Tracey put her head on Daphne's shoulder, thankful for the pillow.
"What time did you get back in?" Daphne put to her.
"I had to sneak in after the last patrol. It was after two," she replied.
Daphne gave a soft giggle. Her friend almost never did that. "I made it about quarter after one."
Tracey felt a little envious. She knew Harry had an invisibility cloak and that was probably why her best mate had been able to get in earlier. Well... not that Neville and her were quite done by then anyways.
"How about Millie? I didn't see her in bed this morning," Tracey commented.
Daphne clucked her tongue. "I didn't either. You don't think?"
Tracey giggled this time, stopping as some steps announced people coming into the common room. She sat up before they entered. "Should we go check on her?"
"She is fifteen," Daphne said, looking a little concerned as well.
"She was with Eugene. I've never heard of him taking advantage of anyone," Tracey said. As they talked, someone walked into the common room through the entrance door. They turned to see Millie. She was still in her dress, looking a little tired, but had a huge smile on her face.
They both got up and rushed to her. "Millie, you alright," Tracey asked concerned.
Millie sounded pleased. "I am fine. I swear."
Daphne said what was on both their minds. "Do you need to see Madam Pomfrey?"
Millie laughed. "Merlin, no. We didn't go that far. I just fell asleep on his shoulder as we talked... and kissed. Eugene asked me if I wanted a Courtship Contract."
"What did you say?" Tracey couldn't keep her enthusiasm down.
"What do you think I said?" Millie said with an eye roll.
"Poor Eugene," Daphne said in a flat tone.
Tracey laughed as Millie gave Daphne a scathing look. "You hang out with Harry too much."
"Merlin be right," Daphne said with a smile. They calmed as another group came through and headed up towards the great hall. "Do you need help getting ready?"
"Can you help me out of this dress? I want to breathe again," Millie told them.
"Of course. Come on. You have to tell us all about what you did last night," Tracey demanded of Millie.
She had a satisfied smile. "It wasn't much."
"Oh, you were with him all night," Tracey said incredulously, feeling a little jealous that she hadn't thought about that with Neville. They could have found a place to hide for the night…
"And are you going to say what you and Neville got up too? I saw the hickeys from your neck to the line of your dress," Daphne questioned.
"Like the two you tried to hide yesterday morning?" she shot back, liking the way Daphne's neck flushed a little.
Millie laughed as they entered the dorm. Moon and Parkinson were getting ready and gave them a look as they entered. Not caring now, they were in a 'private' area, the three of them ignored the bitches. They helped Millie get out of her dress and brush her hair as the others left.
Millie may not have had any love bites, but she was smiling more than they had seen. Tracey was forced to show the four she had. When Daphne sighed and pulled up her own jumper, there were two, one on each side of her neck. They were almost gone though, having had a day for the balm to work.
Tracey never thought they could bond over something like this. Of course, she had to push it. "So, I'm not sure if I left any on Neville. I think we should get some revenge on our intendeds."
Daphne giggled. "Is it revenge if they are going to like it?"
Tracey gave a sly grin. "I plan to put them in a spot Neville can't hide them. He doesn't have any turtle necks or really high collar clothes."
"You are wicked," Millie commented with a laugh.
Daphne shrugged. "I doubt Harry will mind."
"Oh, I'm sure Neville won't mind either."
Millie laughed at them again. "I couldn't do that to Eugene. Not yet."
"Oh, come on. Join the club," Tracey egged her on.
Daphne laughed this time. "You are horrid."
Tracey's smirk looked evil. "Does that mean I can finally leave a gift in Pansy's trunk?"
"No. I will not start anything until we are certain it was them," Daphne ordered.
Tracey pouted. "Please? I haven't pranked anyone all year."
"Then go after the Weasley's," Daphne told her.
A light lit in her eyes. "Really? I can finally try to prank them?"
Millie gave a nervous chuckle. "Are you sure you want to let her loose like that?"
"If I keep her on a leash anymore, she is liable to do something to poor Neville," Daphne said as though it was the most obvious thing.
"I would not! Neville is a nice guy," Tracey said offended.
Daphne eyed her. "Just leave me and Harry out of it."
"Me too," Millie said.
Tracey wrapped an arm both of them. "I only prank those that annoy me or ask for it."
"That is why I have never tried to get on your bad side," Daphne told her.
Tracey giggled. "I know. I figure one of these days you will give me a reason."
"I will not," Daphne said, sticking her nose up.
"I think I am going to freshen up and then go find Eugene before I cause any issues," Millie said, pulling away towards the shower.
"Coward," Tracey teased.
"I think I know when to run," Millicent told them.
"Now, when did Harry give you those?" Tracey asked her best friend, a wicked smile on her face. "And do we need to get more cream? Or do you plan to have them in places you can hide?"
Daphne flushed again and Tracey giggled at her.
-oOo-
December 26, 1994
Hogwarts, Scotland
Harry stood looking at Victor Krum. In the four and a half years he had been playing Quidditch, Harry had never felt intimidated until today. The boy was about the same height as him and easily had a good stone weight or two on him that looked to be all muscle. His face was stony. The light brown eyes emotionless.
Harry was too much a Gryffindor to show he was being intimidated, so he stood tall, trying to match the steely look of Krum. Harry had seen how he handled the dragon in the first task. The boy had dominated the dragon. He was about to dominate the game.
"Mount your brooms," Madam Hooch called out as Bagman did his announcing around the stadium.
Harry ignored the windbag to focus on the only real competition Harry had ever faced. Krum had easily played and caught the snitch in three or more times the games Harry had himself. When they got to height, Krum looked to get a little quirk to his mouth. "Good luck," Krum told him.
"Same to you," Harry replied.
Krum nodded.
Harry was so intently studying Krum, he almost missed the whistle. Today, Harry was going to shadow the Bulgarian. He didn't doubt the young man was beyond his skill, but Harry wasn't going to just roll over and give up.
Krum took off at close to top speed. Harry shadowed him, his Firebolt just as fast and responsive as Krum's. He never let the Bulgarian get more than three broom lengths ahead. In the world of Seekers that was a mile, but he wasn't going to let the boy get a shot in or two until he was sure they were after the snitch. Harry had seen him do this tactic twice on the Irish Seeker at the World Cup.
After a few minutes, Krum let off and entered a standard search pattern.
Harry wasn't sure if he was being played with or not yet.
"Davies takes it up the field. Passes... it is intercepted! Adder from Durmstrang flies up the field with Zanders... oh, that had to hurt!" Bagman called out. Harry had caught George hit a bludger. The Durmstrang boy, Adder, had dodged it, but missed the one from Fred that was in the path of his duck. Adder dropped the quaffle and came back up with a bloody nose.
"I hear you 're good," Krum said as he focused on the pitch.
"I've heard that too," Harry replied.
Krum cracked a smile. "Let's find out," Krum said, suddenly diving.
Harry couldn't take the chance and followed. He was only a broom length behind. Harry saw no sign of the snitch. His instincts were screaming this was a faint. With a snarl, he cut off and was hit in the side with the quaffle as Durmstrang tried to pass. Harry pulled up before hitting the ground and sped along the side of the stadium. Three times Krum had led the Ireland Seeker to the opposite side of the stadium. Harry hoped he was right and a second later a determined Krum was racing up the other side. Harry caught sight of the snitch and angled towards the goal posts.
Krum pushed the Firebolt as hard as he could. Harry didn't deviate and the Bulgarian looked surprised that Harry didn't pull up as they collided. They were both buffeted and just missed the goal posts. Harry pulled up, having to kick off the side of the wall and sent a few Ravenclaws stumbling into the seat as he just missed the railing.
When he leveled off, Krum was at his side. The look the Bulgarian was giving him was harder. Harry returned the look, his shoulder screaming at him from the impact. They didn't say anything, both concentrating on the game.
Three more times Krum tried to fake him. Three more times Harry didn't fall for it. On the fourth, Krum looked to be pulling off a Wronski Faint. Harry caught sight of the snitch a dozen yards up the pitch. Krum was focusing so hard, Harry wasn't sure if Krum had seen it or not.
He had a second to decide and Harry decided to follow Krum but angled just a little higher. When they both pulled up, Harry hit his twigs into Krum's hands, earning what sounded like a swear in Bulgarian. He leveled out, concentrating on the golden, winged ball that was trying to out race them.
Krum hit Harry's sore arm and he rammed into the larger boy. It was dirty and fast as they both raced after the snitch. "Rogue one," someone called out. Harry did a barrel roll, the bludger just missing him and nailing Krum in the shoulder. Krum swore again.
The action separated them and put the snitch almost directly between them. They both turned as fast as they could and climbed as the snitch tried to hide in the sun. Harry accelerated as fast as he could, squinting to see the small ball. Krum crashed into him again. "Bloody dick," Harry yelled at the boy.
Was that a smile on Krum's face? Krum elbowed him and then was able to cut inside as the snitch took off to the right. Harry knocked his leg. Krum went off course just a little. It wasn't enough though.
Krum kicked out. Harry swore as his fingers were crushed against his broom. He pushed through the pain, but Krum snatched the snitch as it tried to make another hair pin turn.
Harry landed to lots of cheering. Hogwarts had lost 210 to 60. Most of his team looked as beat up as he felt. Davies came over and clapped his shoulder. "You did great, Harry," he said, sounding a little sad.
Harry squeezed his hand, found it wouldn't close all the way and shook it to get rid of the pain. He couldn't really close his fingers and blood was seeping out the open tips of his gloves. "I didn't think I would be so close," he told Davies.
"Come on. Let's go congratulate them and get that hand taken care of," he said.
George limped over. "That was great, Harry!"
"We saw you. If the slimy git..." Fred.
"...hadn't kicked you..." George.
"... you would have gotten it..." Fred.
"He won fair and square," Harry told them.
They lined up, Davies putting him second in line. The gruff boys of Durmstrang squeezed his hurt hand and he had use all his occlumency skills to not show the pain. When he got to Krum, the boy put the snitch in his hand.
"You earned this," Krum told him.
"I lost though," Harry said, confused.
Krum gave him a smile, a broken tooth and some blood showing. Harry hadn't realized he got him in the mouth. Krum put a hand on his shoulder. Where Roger had gotten his good shoulder, Krum got his bad and Harry finally winced. "You are only competition in years," the boy said and limped off. Harry had given as good as he got.
He smiled at his team as they congratulated him. When Daphne finally made it to him, she jumped on him and they went down to the ground, biting his lip hard as pain lanced through is right shoulder and left hand.
She got up. "You're hurt!"
"Maybe," he said, wincing as she noticed the blood on his fingertips. She took off his glove and he let out a soft hiss of pain. He clearly had a few broken knuckles and blood as dripping out of them. His hand already was swollen. "Harry! You need Madam Pomfrey!"
"I got you another snitch," he said, holding it up to her, trying to smirk under her glare of concern.
Her lips tightened. "Stupid boys and quidditch."
She took the snitch anyways and put it in her pocket. Harry knew she loved to see him fly, and loved quidditch, but this had been a brutal and skill testing match. Apparently, her nerves had been tested at the stunts he had pulled off with Krum.
George and Fred laughed as she helped him up and dragged him away to find the healer. She was clearly in charge at the moment. They didn't laugh for long when Angelina and Alicia did the same, with Katie laughing at them.
Roger muttered, "Poor sods."
"You need to get that cut on your head fixed," a blonde girl said in no uncertain terms next to him.
He closed his eyes tight, realizing he was in the same position. He had a girlfriend now too. "Did you enjoy the game, Wendy?"
Her blue eyes didn't look impressed he hadn't gone to see the Healer yet.
-oOo-
December 27, 1994
London, England
Amelia walked into the room. Two Aurors stood in the corners on the wall with the door. In the center of the room, ropes bound a man to a table. He had a definite smell to him. After being in Azkaban for the last few weeks, the man still looked to be in decent shape, just unwashed.
The dark eyes glared at her. A beard was starting to really show. His dark hair was messy. None of this bothered her though as a DMLE Healer walked in behind her. The man's eyes looked a little confused.
"You mean to heal me before you torture me yourself? I never thought you got your own hands dirty, Bones," the man said in a disinterested tone.
Amelia took a seat across from the man. "The DMLE does not torture anyone. If you have any complaints of rough handling or mistreatment, I give you my personal promise I will investigate all such claims."
The man gave a small chuckle. "Your personal promise? That is rich. What is the healer here for then?"
"Didn't you receive a copy of the Daily Prophet? I thought I told Head Auror Scrimgeour to put one in here?" she said, looking at the Aurors.
The one to her right looked a little guilty. "I took it off the table, ma'am. I was not told it was meant for the prisoner to read."
She frowned. She would have to have a talk with Scrimgeour later. "Well, Mr. Selwyn, to let you know, the Wizengamot has been rather busy fixing laws and adding new ones. Just two days ago, some laws were changed that allow the DMLE more investigation rights into past and present crimes of those convicted or facing a tribunal."
The man's eyes widened slightly, and he looked to the Healer. "This is illegal. I am the current Lord of House Selwyn and, as such, am protected from the use of Legilimency, veritaserum or other forms to coerce information out of me."
She gave him a small smile. "You were. You are not Lord of House Selwyn any longer. Neither are purebloods of a Wizengamot seat or others immune from such 'coercion' anymore. You have been convicted of smuggling. Some of the items were very deadly in nature. I am allowed to ask about those items, and where they were destined to go. After that, I can petition for follow-up questions. Now, Mr. Selwyn, please cooperate."
The man honestly looked concerned. "I have my oaths to the Unspeakable and my House that you cannot go against."
She shook her head. "You should have read the newspaper. All such oaths can be absolved by a council of ten when there is just cause to investigate severe crimes. Surely you were notified of this and felt it this morning?"
The man swallowed hard. Amelia knew he had been notified. "You are lying. I wish to put in a complaint of torture and attempted slander of a Wizengamot House."
Her smile was unsettling. "You still think you are Head of the Selwyn's and protected under laws that have now been abolished. I do not have all day. There are three others that I must interview today. Aurors, please help the Healer administer the veritaserum."
The man struggled, trying to break out of his bindings and had to have a partial body bind applied before the Healer could administer the three drops. The man fought it, and it took almost three minutes for the serum to finally take effect.
"Now, Mr. Selwyn, you are going to tell me who put you up to importing those items and where they were going," Amelia said in a very hard tone.
Selwyn still looked to be attempting to fight it. "He will kill me..." he said.
"Administer a fourth drop," Amelia ordered.
After a moment, his body slackened, and he relaxed.
"Now, Mr. Selwyn. Who were you importing those items for?"
In a flat tone, the man said, "Lord Lucius Malfoy."
It was like Yule came for a second time this year. "When did he contract you to obtain and transport the items?"
"He didn't contract us. We were to split the proceeds."
That was interesting. "If he did not contract you, why were you helping Lord Malfoy?"
"Lucius needed support when he talked with his dealer in Tunisia. We were there incase anything went south with the deal," Selwyn answered.
"And who was the Dealer?"
"I never saw them, but it sounded like a woman. We were instructed to guard the outside. Only Reginald went into the building with him."
"Who is Reginald," she asked, feeling like she already knew the answer.
"Lord Reginald Crabbe."
She had so many questions and only about thirty more minutes before the antidote had to be administered. Not many knew that the reason why only three drops were given was because that was the poisoning point for most adult wizards. Every other drop strengthened the compulsion but dropped the amount of time it would last by about fifteen minutes. If an antidote was not delivered soon after, then it was a painful death that could last hours.
"What were the dark items going to be used for?"
Selwyn swallowed. "We were not told, but Lucius mentioned something about sabotaging an event."
"Why?"
"Many of the Neutrals and their families would be there," Selwyn replied.
She had a slight shiver of fear go through her. The only event she knew of that would have been public over a month ago was the annual New Year's Eve gala at the Ministry. She had to get through this and then let her other Aurors finish the questioning with the other prisoners. She would wait to question Goyle tomorrow. His trial was the day after.
"What other activities was Lord Malfoy planning," she asked, knowing it might be beyond the current investigation, but sometimes it was better to ask for forgiveness than permission.