A/N: When ever the muse feels stubborn or I discouraged. I honestly just look at some of the wonderful, thoughtful, encouraging (I could go on) reviews you guys leave this story. It literally keeps me going. Thank you so much.
The Slytherin Reformation
By Spectre4hire
8: The Lion, the Wizard, and the Box
"You want me to stun, Scabbers?"
Neville was standing in Dumbledore's office in front of the Headmaster's desk. He had been quickly summoned after Harry and the headmaster returned from their meeting with Sirius and Remus in the Shrieking Shack.
It was here that Dumbledore explained to Neville what he needed to do.
Harry watched from his seat with mild amusement despite the importance of the matter. Even he had to admit, hearing it back from the Headmaster how strange these instructions or circumstances were.
"Yes," Dumbledore smiled. He rested his hands atop each other on his desk.
"Ron's rat?" Neville asked.
"Yes," Dumbledore was still smiling. He did not look the least bit upset at all these questions or having to repeat himself.
"But he's not actually a rat?"
"No, he is not," Dumbledore answered simply.
Harry saw the confusion in his friend's eyes and the doubt that remained in his expression at what he was being asked to do.
"He's a wizard," Neville repeated.
"He is," Dumbledore confirmed, pleasantly.
"The same wizard who was supposed to be dead the last thirteen years," He sent a look towards Harry, "The one who framed your godfather?"
Harry gave him a tight nod. He had only learned recently the various layers of this story and some of which he had yet to tell his friends about.
"Alright," Neville shrugged, deciding strange or not that he'd help, "Where's the box?"
"Wonderful," Dumbledore's eyes twinkled. "I've enchanted it so once you stun the rat and put him inside," He then revealed the box.
It was small and unassuming. It looked like an old shoe box. It was neither ornate or colorful. It was a bland brown.
"Once you close it," which he then did.
The box immediately changed. The lid and the side facing him became transparent allowing you to look inside to view the contents. Harry blinked, surprised at the unexpected bit of magic.
At the moment, the box was empty, but soon Pettigrew would be inside and that made Harry smile.
Neville didn't hide his surprise. "Okay," He gingerly took the box from a smiling Dumbledore. "And once I have him?"
"We shall meet you at the Hospital Wing," Dumbledore instructed, "And under no circumstances are you to open the box once he's inside, Mister Longbottom."
"I won't," Neville took the words seriously. He held the box a little bit closer, "But sir," He hesitated, "What about Ron?" He asked, "We're sorta stealing his pet."
"We are indeed," Dumbledore sounded more amused at stealing a student's pet than a headmaster should. "However, once this mess is sorted out, I will approach Ronald and purchase him a new pet of his choice," He answered, "as long as it complies with our school rules," Dumbledore's blue eyes shone with mirth behind his glasses and a smile emerged within his white beard.
Satisfied, Neville now looked determined, holding the empty box carefully. He then turned to Harry, "Don't worry, Harry, I'll get him. I won't let you or your godfather down."
"Thanks, Neville," Harry knew that and trusted his friend. "I know you can."
That further boosted his confidence and the Gryffindor then left Dumbledore's office.
Harry had made a suggestion earlier before Neville had arrived that either he or the Headmaster should follow Neville under his invisibility cloak. It was in no way because he didn't trust Neville. No, it was because he could not help, but fear of the possibility no matter how small that Pettigrew could get away.
We can't fail Sirius. His stomach had twisted painfully at just the thought of it.
Dumbledore declined the suggestion. He admitted Harry's cloak was perfect for concealing them from the human eye, but they did not know what success it would have on animals. The headmaster also noted the senses of an animal were usually stronger than humans. So even if it couldn't see them, it may be able to hear or smell them.
"I only wonder what my scent would be," Dumbledore had joked. "I hope its nothing too bothersome."
If the rat could detect them then the plan would be ruined and Pettigrew would flee. So it was decided it was too much of a risk. Scabbers would not suspect Neville, who lived in that dormitory room the last three years.
Sometimes it was the simple plans that proved to be the most successful ones, Dumbledore had observed.
It was still dinner for the students, so they believed Ron would still be in the Great Hall. Harry suspected his friends might be in there too. They were probably wondering where he had gone off to.
Harry was just as curious about Theo and how it went with Hermione. He was hopeful when this was all said and done, he'd have good news for his friends, and Theo would have good news too.
"Shall we be off, Harry?" Dumbledore had stood from his seat and made his way around the desk, he gestured towards the door.
Harry nodded. He followed the Headmaster out of his office. He was careful not to step on his long robes that were gold and purple with stars emblazoned here and there.
They began the walk to the Hospital Wing where the Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge would be waiting for them as well as Amelia Bones. Harry had met her at Kings Cross station before his second year. She was Susan's Aunt, and whenever she talked about her, his Hufflepuff friend had only glowing things to say about her. It was clear she saw her Aunt as an inspiration.
Harry's shoes hitting the stone floor was the only sound between him and the headmaster. Dumbledore wore purple slippers that seemed incapable of making sound. Harry suspected an enchantment or some charm, in hearing his footsteps he realized what a great advantage it would be if you couldn't be heard.
Seeing the benefits, he made a note to look into it when he had the time.
"Sir?" Harry continued when Dumbledore turned to him, "How did you get them to come?" He did not think it was the blunt truth: that a wizard who was supposed to be dead for the last thirteen years was actually alive and had been a rat. Harry was quite certain that wouldn't go over well.
Dumbledore paused as if to consider his answer, and for a long second, Harry feared that the headmaster would not tell him. That proved to be unfounded.
"The Minister owed me a favor," Dumbledore revealed vaguely. "I do not wish to say more only out of respect for the Minister. I hope you can understand, Harry."
"I do, sir," Harry could tell it was not something he should pry into. What impressed him was that Dumbledore was using it for this, to help Sirius. A favor from the Minister of Magic, Harry couldn't imagine how much of a boon that could be worth. When he said as much to Dumbledore, the Headmaster took it with a sad smile.
"You praise me when you should not," He said gently, "A great injustice was done to Sirius. I played a part in that," He looked down, "I was convinced that he was guilty even when so many of his actions proved him not to be a traitor or heartless murderer. Those really were dark and terrible times, Harry, when we trusted so little and suspected so many," he sighed. "I let the matter rest, and because of my inability to see past my own disappointment and anger an innocent man spent thirteen years in Azkaban Prison." His blue eyes were glistening behind his glasses.
Harry could only nod. He wasn't sure what he could add to the Headmaster's emotional confession. He knew Sirius' imprisonment once his innocence was revealed had heavily affected some including Moony.
"I've always been told, I'm a bright wizard, Harry. The best wizard since Merlin, smart and powerful, and beyond compare," He let out a weak chuckle, "And at times at my worst and in my hubris, I've allowed myself to believe it," He shook his head, "And because of that my mistakes have been costly," He paused, "And the people I could not save weigh heavily on me every second of every day."
He stopped and turned to him. "It is a heavy burden, Harry, some of us have been called to carry," He put a hand on Harry's shoulder, "I fear what will be placed on you in what is to come," He gently squeezed it, "However, I know you will triumph. You are many things that I will never be. You have powers that Voldemort will never understand."
"You not me will be the wizard that the people should turn to for inspiration," He gave him a small smile. "I do not mean to burden you, Harry, nor do I wish to pressure you. I only wish to support you and to let you know you have my utmost confidence and faith."
"Thank you, sir," Harry's throat swelled and his voice was thick. He was honored. Pride filled inside him at the Headmaster's heartfelt words and support. It was a warm and wonderful feeling. There was some dismay there as well at the stalwart belief being placed on him, but Dumbledore's eyes shone with such sincerity that in that moment the dismay could be easily quieted.
"Shall we?"
Still not fully trusting his voice after what the Headmaster said about him, Harry just nodded. Dumbledore didn't seem to mind and they continued their walk towards the Hospital Wing.
"There is a matter that I thought you'd be interested in, Harry. It has been put aside because of Sirius, but it is important and will need to be looked into."
"What is it, sir?"
"I believe I may be close to discovering another," Dumbledore stopped himself, but Harry didn't need him to finish. He knew what he was referring to- another one of Voldemort's horcruxes.
"Really?" He perked up at that exciting news.
"Yes," Dumbledore looked hopeful, "However, the manner of your involvement will need to be discussed," The Hospital Wing door came into view. "I fear what Cyrus and Roxanne will do to me if I have you confront another trial like a basilisk."
Harry chuckled, knowing the headmaster was right. They were very protective and Harry appreciated it.
It had been strange and uncomfortable at first. He was not used to it, and he did not know how to behave or react to it. He was so unsure and awkward. The attention and affection made him stiffen because he was always taught to shrink back, to shy away from being the focus. Hard lessons he learned during primary school, but ones he had to learn quickly upon receiving the wrath of either his cousin or his uncle.
So to then be thrust into it and to have someone else care for him. It required a period of adjustment, a slow growth that they thankfully understood. They helped to slowly guide him into understanding and showing what he meant to them.
I'll always be grateful. He did not want to know what his life would have turned out like if he had not encountered the Greengrass family at Kings Cross three years ago.
"Here we are," Dumbledore had opened the hospital wing door for him.
He thanked him before walking in. He was pleased to say that he had only visited the Hospital Wing once so far this year, and that had been technically before the term had truly begun. Harry was thankful for that, not just because it meant he had been relatively unscathed over the school year, but more importantly it meant he hadn't had to visit his friends here.
He would never forget Daphne and Hermione, petrified on their hospital beds. They had visited often and it had been awful. To feel so hopeless and to see your friends in such a state and be powerless to help them.
The Hospital Wing hadn't changed since Harry found himself here right before his third year officially started. There was a row of beds that looked immaculate on both sides of the room upon walking in. The beds were all empty. Most of the privacy screens were folded and tucked away, but one or two remained in their place as Harry and Dumbledore walked through the row of beds.
It wasn't the school matron, Madam Pomfrey waiting for them. It was Amelia Bones and Cornelius Fudge. They seemed to be having their own conversation, and it was the former who noticed their approach.
"Albus," she greeted cordially, before turning her attention towards Harry, and she did not hide her surprise at his inclusion.
"Madam Bones," Harry took her surprise to initiate the greeting. "It is a pleasure to see you again." When he neared he lowered his head out of respect.
Amelia Bones was dressed in dark robes. A golden badge was sewn into the spot on her chest above her heart that signified her as the Head of Magical Law Enforcement. Her sleeves were striped from shoulder down to the cuffs in golden thread, woven amidst them was the Ministry of Magic emblem or initials.
It all looked rather gaudy to Harry's eye, like something Gilderoy Lockhart would wear. However, he knew Madam Bones well enough through her niece that this must be required wearing for either her position or department.
"This is a surprise, Mister Potter," She said, her brown eyes peering down at him. "Susan continues to write well of you and your growing friendship."
Harry smiled, pleased with that and he said as much before adding. "Its been a pleasure to be able to call your niece a friend, Madam Bones."
She returned his smile but then turned her inquisitive eyes towards Dumbledore who had been speaking to Fudge.
"Minister Fudge," Harry took the opportunity to step forward to present himself. He remembered his lessons with Cyrus and Roxanne and despite the nervousness he felt fluttering in his chest, he made sure to look and sound confident. To speak clearly and move smoothly in his interaction with the Minister of Magic. Aware how important first impressions were, Cyrus had cautioned him: pure blooded wizards have a long memory.
"Harry Potter," he looked him over as if thinking Harry's presence was some elaborate and magical ruse.
Minister Fudge was a short man with grey hair. He had a plain face and unremarkable features, but he dressed extravagantly. He was wearing a richly sewn green and black dress robes. Harry was no expert on fashion, but the material and thread looked very expensive. To complete his look he wore a matching bowler hat that rested neatly atop his head.
"It is an honor to finally meet you, sir," Harry stepped forward and offered him his hand in friendship in the way he had seen Cyrus do countless times.
"You as well, Mister Potter," Fudge hesitated only for a second or more before taking Harry's hand. The pause seemed more out of confusion of the situation then any ill feelings in regards to him, or so Harry hoped. "The Magical world owes you a great debt."
"I may have been one of the last names recorded in the war, Minister Fudge," Harry said slowly, knowing he needed to pick his words carefully and say them clearly. "But there were many wizards and witches who came before me in our defense and fought valiantly against the evil that is Lord Voldemort and his followers. We are indebted to their sacrifices and endless courage."
The name brought a flinch from Fudge, but he recovered, "Well said, Mister Potter."
Harry hoped he wasn't being too optimistic when thinking he had impressed the Minister. Some of his worry deflated at how well he thought it was going between him and Fudge. From the corner of his vision, he could see Madam Bones too took his words seriously and looked to have approved of Harry's sentiment.
He knew she lost her brother and his family against Voldemort during the war.
"Albus, what is the meaning of all this?"
Dumbledore took the Minister of Magic's demand with a patient smile. "Allow me, first to get us comfortable because there is much to tell," With that, his wand was out and silently he cast the needed spells to have four cushy and cozy large chairs appear in a square formation.
Fudge didn't move to take a seat. If anything, he looked annoyed. "Albus," He began, but stopped when Dumbledore put a hand up.
"Forgive me, Cornelius," He then moved to sit down in one of the seats and let out an agreeable sigh, "Ah, these are comfortable," He then blinked as if remembering they were there. "There are some matters we need to discuss. They are to the benefit of your Ministry and to justice itself."
"Matters?" Fudge repeated, frowning, "What sort of matters?" He looked suspiciously at the headmaster.
Harry had followed Dumbledore's example and took the seat to his left. He also agreed that these chairs were quite comfortable. Soft and cushy, he leaned back and it felt as if he was sitting on a cloud. He, however, decided he didn't have the clout to publicly comment on chairs in the middle of a conversation with the Minister of Magic and the Head of the Department of Law Enforcement so he stayed silent.
"Just a few minutes of your time, Cornelius," Dumbledore said soothingly as if talking to an upset student and not the Minister of Magic. "I promise all will be made clear," He then raised one of his hands towards Madam Bones, "Amelia, did you look into what I asked for?"
"I did."
"What is this?" Fudge looked between them.
Cyrus had told Harry several times that Minister Fudge saw Dumbledore as a rival since everyone knew the Headmaster publicly and famously declined the position of Minister of Magic after the war. It was then eventually given to Fudge.
'Before, he'd write to him often, asking for advice on everything,' Cyrus chuckled,' from what ink to use on the memos to how to reorganize and replenish the Auror department.'
'What happened?' Harry had asked.
Cyrus gave a thin smile, 'what always happens, Harry,' he said simply, 'money and power and with it Fudge began to think more of himself. He filled his staff with sycophants and began to be backed by very rich supporters. He didn't need Dumbledore anymore, so he saw him as an enemy.'
'Why?' Harry had been confused on why anyone could see Dumbledore as an enemy unless they were a dark wizard. He definitely didn't see Fudge as that.
'Because anyone who gains power, Harry, is always afraid to lose it.'
"The trials of Sirius Black," She revealed grimly. "Or should I say I found no evidence that a trial ever took place."
"Because he was guilty," Fudge waved his hand in a dismissive manner.
Harry hid his frown, and tried very hard not to glare in the direction of the Minister of Magic.
"That has been brought into doubt," Dumbledore remarked.
"What?" Fudge scoffed, "Impossible, Dumbledore, I was there in the aftermath of what that monster did," He clicked his tongue. "I saw the bodies."
Harry clenched his hand out of view and bit down the retort he wanted to throw back at him. He had only been around him for a few minutes, but Harry's own impression on the Minister was quickly souring.
"A tragic day," Dumbledore agreed solemnly, "But I have discovered recent evidence that it was not Black who did the deed."
"What are you saying, Albus?" Madam Bones stepped forward, her eyes could not betray her curiosity. "Who else could it be?"
"Peter Pettigrew."
Fudge laughed. "Albus, I must say, I'm disappointed in you," he was smiling and shaking his head. "I thought you'd be more wise in your choice on why you invited me here, but this is the reason?"
Dumbledore returned the Minister's smile, unbothered by the man's chiding tone.
"Pettigrew died, Albus," Madam Bones was neither dismissive or insulting in her response. "They found his finger."
Fudge was nodding, as if the case was now open and shut. "We did, we did, indeed."
"If I may?" Dumbledore addressed himself to Madam Bones and not Fudge. Something the Minister did not miss.
"You have my trust, Albus," She allowed, "And my interest." She then sat down in the seat opposite Albus, and gestured for him to continue. At this point, a frowning Fudge seeing no alternative sat down as well in the seat across Harry.
"Wonderful," Dumbledore was pleased. "It came to my attention awhile back that we may have all been fooled," His face and tone had sobered.
"And how did you come by this information, Albus?" She raised one of her bushy eyebrows. She deduced that something was in the shadows of Dumbledore's revelations that he was hesitant to reveal.
It was a delicate answer they needed to give. Harry wasn't even sure how they'd address it. They certainly couldn't reveal that they had spoken with Sirius in the Shrieking Shack just an hour or so ago. He wasn't sure that they'd accept the answer that they were first tipped off with Harry's encounter with his parents when he had technically died.
Neville, Harry thought of his friend, this would be a very good time for you to arrive.
As if hearing his thoughts, the door opened, and Neville Longbottom walked in.
That's better and faster than any summoning spell, he wryly observed. He resisted the urge to jump out of his seat and cut the distance between them in order to see the box and the caught rat inside. Harry felt the smile blooming on his lips, thinking soon, Sirius will get his chance at justice. When Neville neared some of Harry's confidence began to slip away.
The gryffindor looked a bit pale and shaken. He was holding the box close to his chest with his arms blocking it from view.
Harry felt his hope plummet sharply. He had gotten away.
"Mister Longbottom?" Dumbledore's voice broke Harry out of his despairing thoughts.
"Sir," He looked up. His eyes then widened when he realized who was in the Hospital Wing. "Minister Fudge," he bowed his head quickly, "Madam Bones," he added with another bow. He didn't wait for them to reply before he spoke in a tone that only spurred on his dread that they had failed Sirius.
"I didn't mean to, sir," Neville began in his apology, "But he snuck up on me and I panicked." He blurted out.
Pettigrew, Harry felt ice go through him. He must have sensed something and fled. He couldn't believe it.
It wasn't fair! He was gone and he was Sirius' easiest and fastest way of securing his freedom. Presenting the Ministry with Pettigrew would have forced them to look into Sirius' crimes and to finally consider that perhaps, they had the wrong man. Now, Peter was gone, and Harry wasn't sure if Sirius would get a better and safer chance at proving his innocence.
"I stunned him," Neville's worried voice pulled Harry back to his friend. "It happened so fast."
"Who, did you stun Neville?"
"Ron," He was unable to hide his panic at being punished for attacking another student.
Dumbledore took Neville's ramblings with a polite smile and did not interrupt him until the Gryffindor paused to take a breath. "Calm yourself," He informed him, the headmaster did not look the least bit rattled or concerned at the incident.
What about the box? Harry tried to get a look at it, but Neville was clutching it tightly. Nev, Harry nearly growled out, pushing down the irritation that he couldn't see what was inside.
Was he inside or was it empty?
"Neville, were you able to do what I asked?"
Fudge squawked before Neville could answer. "He just confessed that he stunned one of your students, Albus!"
Dumbledore never took his eyes off of the Gryffindor. "We do not punish students for accidents, Minister."
Neville stepped forward, and brought the box towards Dumbledore and there due to the transparent charm, Harry saw a stunned rat stored inside.
It's him! Harry jumped out of his seat then and let out a whoop of joy, ignoring the looks from Madam Bones and Minister Fudge. He went to his friend and clapped him on the back, "You did it, Neville!" Harry was grinning, he crouched down so as to be at eye-level to see the slumbering rat inside.
Was there a better sight? He savored it, knowing what it meant for his godfather. He couldn't stop smiling. He's going to be free!
Neville returned Harry's smile and gave him a shaky nod. He still looked to be concerned about any fallout from his accident with Ron.
"Albus?" Madam Bone's voice brushed aside Harry's reaction, reminding him that he wasn't alone to celebrate. "What is happening?"
"I'll show you, Madam Bones," Dumbledore gently took the box from Neville and walked over to the nearest empty bed. Harry and Neville followed, but were behind a curious Madam Bones and Minister Fudge who was holding his bowler hat between his hands.
Without ceremony, Dumbledore opened the box and the rat dropped onto the bed.
"A rat?" Fudge's voice was incredulous. "You brought me here for a rat?"
"Rats are actually quite fascinating, Minister," Dumbledore chided him lightly, "But no, I did not call you here to discuss rats." He was waving his wand with a silent incantation, "I'm here to discuss justice."
There was a flash of light. The crease of the bed was the first noise as it adjusted to the unexpected added weight that it was now holding. When it dissipated the rat was no more, but instead was a stunned wizard.
Harry wanted to see the man responsible for betraying his parents, for sending Sirius to Azkaban, and for serving Voldemort. He had seen him through the pictures the Greengrass family shared countless times. He was a young man, often smiling alongside Moony and his father. While the image of Sirius in the pictures had been blasted or scourged. Peter's face remained, the true traitor, deceiving all of them.
It was him who betrayed Harry's parents and godfather and to see him with in all those pictures with his father's arm around him made Harry's stomach clench. This was the stain on his father and their friends' lives and there he was, smiling with them. Harry's fingers would twitch wanting to either peel the face off the picture or to use his wand and blast it off.
There lying on the bed was Peter Pettigrew and to Harry, he was a pathetic sight.
He was dressed in shabby robes, that were dark and in tatters in several places, frayed and dirty. Peter was short and hunched back. His hair was brown, long and stringy, and hung limply around his face. He had small eyes and Harry thought his animagus was well picked, since he had a rat-like appearance.
Dumbledore had transfigured ropes to bind the still unconscious Peter to the bed, tying his arms and legs to the bedposts as an extra precaution.
"Merlin's beard!" Fudge gaped, dropping his bowler's hat in the process. He paled and with wide eyes, he looked over a man who minutes ago, he was convinced had been killed.
Harry didn't smile despite the temptation, but he thought Fudge's reaction was well worth the wait. It's only the beginning, he reminded himself, knowing that it was premature to celebrate yet because there was still things needed to be done.
Madam Bones had taken the reveal in stony silence. The only betrayal of her reaction had been the quick, but fleeting look in her eyes. She pursed her lips, examining the body closely. She then carefully picked up his arm to look at his hand, and her monocled eye focused on the distinguishable absence of a finger.
"Is it r-really him?" Fudge had not tried to move forward to see for himself.
"It appears to be," She dropped Pettigrew's arm, it landed back on the bed with a soft thud. Her wand was out and she was doing her own diagnosis' charms. "There appears to be no concealment or illusions present, Minister," She turned back to face them. "This is Peter Pettigrew."
"W-what are you saying?" The Minister sounded more curious and confused then he had before her confirmation.
"That he is alive," She answered plainly, "And this is him." Her eyes were not on the reeling minister but the headmaster. "You know where he is."
Dumbledore responded to her statement with a bland smile. He held out his hands. "Information has come to me very recently," He admitted. "I asked you about the trial transcripts well before I knew he was this close to the school."
She gave the headmaster a stern gaze. "He will need to come in."
Harry knew who they were talking about, and he wanted to protest, but he caught the headmaster's eyes and he understood the look so he stayed quiet.
Dumbledore doesn't want me to betray what I know. He's trying to protect me.
"The Dementor's kiss must be withdrawn," Dumbledore replied. "He must be guaranteed safety and a fair trial," He continued, "And he is under no circumstances allowed to return to Azkaban while his trial is ongoing."
"Done," Madam Bones said without hesitation, "I will conduct the interviews myself, and," She paused, considering her words, "would allow some leniency in letting him keep his present location given certain guarantees on your part, Albus."
"You will have them, Madam," he bowed his head to her.
"What?" Fudge was finally blinking out of his stupor. He pulled his eyes away from the unconscious Pettigrew. "What are you trying to say, Albus? Amelia?" His attention darted between them, "that Sirius Black is innocent?"
"He is innocent," Harry declared before he could stop himself. Damn.
The Minister looked taken aback by Harry's outburst, but a look of sympathy soon replaced it. "Ah," his eyes went back to the headmaster, "Mister Potter's presence now makes more sense, Albus."
"He has a right, Cornelius."
Fudge picked up his bowler hat. "You must understand, Harry. Those were dark times," he tried to explain. "If we suddenly re-investigated Sirius' crimes. Well, it would look very bad for the Ministry. The people may lose faith in our ability to govern."
It took all of Harry's control to remain silent while the Minister gave his pitiful spiel about justice and truth. He didn't care what the Ministry looked like or what the people thought about it. It was Sirius, he cared about. That was what mattered. It was the only thing that mattered.
He needed Fudge, so sadly he couldn't shout at him for trying to explain the horrible handling of justice or lack there of that left Sirius in a cell for thirteen years.
No, I'll do something better than yell at him, he thought, I'll use him. That thought helped calm some of Harry's exasperation towards the man as well as making his smile appear genuine.
"I understand, Minister," Harry lied, giving the man a reassuring nod. "Those are concerns not to be taken lightly," He added, "Were you part of the Minister of Magic's staff when this happened?"
"I wasn't."
Now, its my turn. Neville's done his part. Dumbledore his, and now I must do mine to help Sirius.
"So," He paused, pushing away some of the nervousness that felt to be bubbling up in his belly, "How can the people blame you for something you had no part in?"
The Minister's eyes were on his hat which was fidgeting in his hands.
So far so good, he thought, hoping they couldn't see his hands which he had put in his pockets to stop them from shaking, driven by an anxious energy he couldn't control.
He continued, trying to make sure there was no tremor in his tone. "If Sirius is given a fair trial and hearing. You'll be seen as the redeemer," he pointed out, "Correcting a terrible injustice."
That got the Minister to look up and his face could not hide his interest.
It wasn't good enough, Harry needed to hold it and he needed to sweeten it. I can do this, he took a calming breath, this was it.
"You'd also have my appreciation, Minister."
Harry tried to calm his erratic heart and roiling stomach, but thankfully the more he spoke, his own anxiety slowly began to drain away. His fears were unfounded and that relief was a wonderful balm that he quickly welcomed.
"I'd make sure that everyone knew of my gratitude that the Minister of Magic saw to it that my godfather was given the fair trial that he deserves, and the one that was denied to him by those who came before you."
Fudge was trying to act indifferent to what Harry was saying, but his eyes betrayed him. They were shining and he knew no doubt the Minister was projecting all of the possibilities and pictures of him standing side by side with Harry, shaking hands, Harry endorsing him, whatever other trivial stuff he was considering he could get with Harry's support.
More assuredly, and with his confidence having completely stripped away his self doubt, he silently listed the ways he'd help Fudge: I'll smile with you, I'll shake hands, I'll pose in the Prophet, and all the other stuff he didn't like that came with his supposed fame, because it was for Sirius.
Harry turned away from Fudge and saw Dumbledore's smile hidden behind his long, flowing white beard. His blue eyes were sparkling. Madam Bones' look was difficult to read, but Harry liked to think or hope it was respect in her gaze and silence.
Neville patted Harry on the shoulder, "That was impressive," he whispered so only he could hear, "And scary."
Harry smiled. He stopped himself from chuckling. "Thanks, Nev."
"Well," an oblivious Fudge finally found his voice, "Amelia, I can trust you to handle this," he waved a hand in Pettigrew's direction.
"Certainly, Minister."
"Good," Fudge was bobbing his head, "It is important that the people have faith in the Ministry," he continued with what he said earlier, "And what better way than showing true justice being done."
"Well said, Cornelius," Dumbledore's praise was light in tone, but heavy in its importance given Fudge's smirk.
"Albus," he inclined his head, "I thank you for bringing this to my attention," He turned to Madam Bones, "Amelia, I'll give you the autonomy needed in seeing this through, just keep my office informed."
"I shall, Minister."
"Wonderful," Fudge couldn't stop smiling, "Mister Potter, an honor to meet you," He held out his hand.
Harry shook it, but he was certain Fudge was wishing that this handshake was being seen by hundreds and captured by twice as many cameras. "You as well, sir."
"I hope the next time we see each other it'll be under more ideal circumstances."
Meaning in a crowded room with you supporting me, Harry saw through it, but smiled all the same.
I did it, relieved and proud. It worked. He was able to help Sirius.
Now that it was over and he had succeeded he couldn't help but see things differently and that new insight only made him want to look ahead at what else he could possibly do with this apparent importance and influence.
Today, Fudge can get Harry what he wanted, but tomorrow, he paused. Well who knows what tomorrow would bring in regards to possible allies or enemies.
If Fudge thought that this meant that Harry would be on his side for the foreseeable future and beyond, that was on the Minister, not Harry. That's his mistake not mine.
AN:
I went back and skimmed my earlier stuff and I don't think I had Harry meeting Fudge before or him telling his friends about his dad and his friends being an animagus since he learned that recently through Moony when he revealed he was a werewolf. I could be wrong. Hopefully, I'm not.
I'd like to warn the readers that parts of this story are going to be anti-climatic especially surrounding some parts of the plot, because of the new circumstances in this AU world. I started writing this more to explore new friendships and Harry's potential in Slytherin and not to rewrite Rowling's series.
At the heart of this story and this series is that simple goal. So at times the plot will plod or stall or some things may be skimmed over.
I understand those who'd be put off by that or disappointed so that's why I'm giving you a fair warning.
We'll have to wait until the next chapter to see what happened between Theo and Hermione, sorry about that.
Until next time,
-Spectre4hire