Disclaimer: I do not own wizarding world, JKR does. There are over 800k stories in this FanFiction forum alone. So I'm sure most ideas I have are long done and dusted. As an avid fanfiction reader for almost 10 years, I'm sure to write something influenced by some stories I've read here. I'm a new writer, also have a bad memory of who wrote the story plot. I'm not claiming credit for others work but just claiming that it will be too long a list of writers to mention. If you find my plot similar to what You have written, I offer my thanks to you for the well written plot that has stuck in my brain all these years.
Author's Note: I just need one thing highlighted here, it is AU. This story happens after the end of third year (POA).
Playing by the Rules [One Shot]
Harry closed his eyes and made himself comfortable in the infirmary bed while Hermione explained to Ron about Sirius' escape on Buckbeak. He felt both relieved and guilty at the same time. Relieved that he was able to save Sirius from a fate worse than death and guilty from unable to prevent Peter's escape. If only he had knocked Peter out before bringing him out of the Shrieking shack. He felt his anger rise at the Minister Cornelius Fudge, who summarily dismissed Harry and Hermione's statements about Sirius' innocence. He felt he should do something. Right now he may be famous but being underage puts a big damp cloth on using his fame for some political clout. He may have some money but not rich enough like Malfoy to use for bribes. What if he used his fame as bribe? like support for the Minister on the next election. When is the next election supposed to be? He was grossly ignorant of the Ministry, laws and big players in the political field. 'At the risk of sounding like Hermione, I should check the library for anything.' was Harry's last thought before falling asleep.
With only a week left before leaving for summer vacation, Harry after enlisting the help of Hermione and Ron ( while grumbling about wasting free time by spending it in library), spent most of their time in library. The Ministry of Magic is lead by the Minister Cornelius Fudge and his cabinet comprising of Heads of the various departments, His Undersecretaries and His advisors and were responsible for administration and day-to-day activities. The Wizengamot lead by the Chief Warlock, comprising of Lords of Houses and Clans who first formed a Council long before the Ministry formed, were responsible for the Legislation and Court of Justice. They met four times a year for Legislation and when needed for court of Justice. The Wizengamot seats were hereditary and the only way a commoner can gain a seat is by becoming Head of a Department (non-hereditary) or through a significant contribution to society or research which results in an Order of Merlin award. Currently the Wizengamot is divided into three political factions, the traditionalists (the dark faction), the liberalists (the light faction), and the neutrals. The traditionalists are headed by Lord Lucius Malfoy and biggest supporter of Fudge. The liberalists are headed by Dowager Augusta Longbottom. The Neutrals were headed by two Lords, Lord Damien Greengrass (Dark leaning neutrals) and Lord Tiberius Ogden (Light leaning neutrals). Usually neutrals went with the most profitable path for them.
Harry and Hermione swore about the unfair laws and mostly feudal structure of the Wizengamot. They brainstormed, all the way back to London, various ideas about how to proceed trying to exonerate Sirius. They couldn't come up with anything. Even after getting locked in his room, Harry did not have anything to stop his efforts until the Weasleys arrived to pick him up before the Quidditch World Cup finals. He spent his entire time at the Dursleys and at the Weasleys thinking about a solution to save Sirius but still no idea came to his mind.
After the ruckus at the Quidditch World cup caused by the former Death Eaters, Harry thought what would it be like if the remaining at large DEs had the kiss on sight order. He suddenly got an idea. He wanted to talk to Sirius badly. He ran to the room he shared with Ron and took a parchment and started to write his letter.
Dear Padfoot,
I hope you found yourself a nice spot to relax and hide. If you are currently inside the country then all good but if you are outside the country then, could I trouble you to make your way back? I know it is risky, with you still being the most wanted man in both magical and muggle world, but I just got an idea to screw with the dark faction in the Wizengamot. When you come back, make your way to the Gringotts in Diagon Alley. I know they are open in the night to cater to the less savoury customers from Knockturn. Once you are there try to get the Lordship of the Ancient and Noble House of Black. As the last surviving male member you can use the Wizengamot case of 1743 for Ancient and Noble House of Orpington. When the House of Orpington was on the verge of extinction on male line, the only living heir appealed to the Wizengamot and won the headship of the house even if he was disowned by the parents but not the Head of the Family. I know your father passed away before your mother blasted you off the tapestry. Also I know the Blacks have female lines but My plan's success depends heavily on you acquiring the headship of House of Blacks. Contact me as soon as you find out from Gringotts. Be careful and be safe, no plan is worth you getting caught. So if the situation is not favourable abandon the plan and get to safety.
Harry.
He tied the letter to Hedwig's leg and said, "Hedwig, please deliver this letter to Sirius. Make sure you are not spotted when you deliver the letter. I don't want to trust anyone but you with this letter and my godfather's safety." Hedwig gave a confident hoot and puffed up her chest. She gave an affectionate nibble on Harry's ear to reassure him and flew out the window. He stood watching Hedwig till she was out his sight. With September 1 just a week away, Harry increasingly became impatient from Sirius' lack of response and starting the next phase of his plan. The Weasleys had planned the school supplies purchase trip to Diagon Alley in five days and stay over at Leaky Cauldron and leave to Hogwarts the next day. Two days later, he was roused up from sleep by the arrival of Hedwig. He immediately scrambled up and got to Hedwig and took the letter. He just took a look at Ron's prone self to make sure he was still sleeping and ripped open the letter.
Dear Prongslet,
I don't know what you have planned but I can't wait to see you pranking those inbred bastards. I was indeed out of country but not too far, just on the other side of channel in the country of wine and cheese. I was able to come back easily enough. I went to the Gringotts today before sunrise to check the Lordship status and had a surprise waiting for me. My demented mother thought I had finally come to senses by betraying the Potters, and restored me to the Black family. Your Godfather is now the newly minted Lord of House Black and you are the new Heir Black. I never wanted to be Lord Black. Hope your plan works, as soon as you are seventeen I'm abdicating the Lordship to your hands. I'm moving to a Black family property which is under heavy wards to stay safe, do not worry about me. Looking forward to your plan's fruition.
Padfoot.
Harry had a beaming smile on his face upon reading the letter. Now to proceed with the next step. He took another letter already written and tied it to Hedwig's leg. "This letter is for the Head of DMLE, Madam Bones. Deliver it to her during breakfast. Can you wait and get her reply?" Harry asked. Hedwig nodded her head and with a look back flew out of the window. Harry went to sleep with a smile on his face.
Amelia Susan Bones, Regent of House Bones and the Head of DMLE, was an early riser. She was always the first to arrive and the last to leave her department in the Ministry. Susan Bones, niece of Amelia and classmate of Harry Potter, was also an early riser. Unless she woke up early she'll never get to spend time with her aunt. They were surprised to see an owl waiting for them when they reached the dining table. Susan immediately identified the owl and exclaimed, "That is Potter's owl".
"Really?" Amelia's eyebrows rose. "I never knew you were acquainted with Harry Potter?"
"Not really. We have barely spoken 10 words in classes." Susan said and retrieved the letter from Hedwig. "Oh, the letter is for you" She handed the letter to her aunt.
"Hmmm, lets see what Mr. Potter wants with me."
Madam Amelia Bones,
I'm sure you are wondering what does Harry Potter want with the Head of DMLE. I want only one thing, Justice. Justice for an innocent man who was incarcerated in the hell known as Azkaban for 12 years. Justice for my godfather Sirius Black.
Amelia gasped here and Susan wondered what surprised her aunt and looked over the shoulder to read. She too gasped after reading the name of the infamous mass murderer. The letter then went onto explain in detail on what actually happened during the previous year and confronting Peter Petigrew. Then the letter explained about the rivalry between the Marauders and Snape and how in an attempt at petty revenge Snape falsified the story and Fudge's attempt at administering the Dementor's kiss without any trial and dismissing witness accounts.
"So that's what happened at the end of last year." Susan exclaimed.
"Ok. That's enough reading over the shoulder." Amelia chided Susan and read further about the plan thought out by Harry. She felt a cold, calculating smile creep up her face. Susan who was watching her aunt's face felt a shiver, "what did he write?"
"Don't worry about it. You can hear the wireless coverage or read about it in next week's special edition Daily Prophet after the Fall Wizengamot session." Amelia replied and turned to Hedwig and wondered, "with you waiting I'm thinking Mr. Potter expects a reply?" When Hedwig nodded her head she added, "My! aren't you an intelligent companion".
She accio'd a parchment and never-out quill and wrote a reply.
Dear Mr. Potter,
Thanks for informing me about the miscarriage of justice regarding your godfather and blatant violations of laws by the Minister. I agree with your plan and take your advice of target into consideration. You can look forward to wireless coverage of the session or the special edition of Daily Prophet after the Fall Session of Wizengamot.
Amelia Bones.
As soon as she tied the letter to the owl's leg, Hedwig flew out.
"What plan? Can't you give me any hint?" Susan pleaded with her aunt.
"No. You can find out with everyone else." Amelia denied to Susan's pout.
The new school year at Hogwarts began with a bang. The Tri-Wizard Tournament, a tournament which was cancelled for past two centuries due to high death toll was being held this time. Harry, with his track record every year, felt for sure his name will be added to the tournament. This only reinforced his decision about his plan to cut down the dark faction. He thanked the fact that classes started on Monday (September 5th, 1994). This allowed him to listen to the wireless broadcast of Wizengamot fall session during the weekend without any home work. He did not inform his friends about the plan and wanted to see their faces when the plan went into action. He borrowed Seamus' wireless and set it up in one corner of common room and tuned it to correct frequency. Few Gryffindors wondered about Harry's new hobby of listening to wireless. Harry gathered Hermione, Ron, Neville, Fred, George and sat around the radio.
"Whats going on Harrykins?" Fred or George, one of the twin asked.
"Its the Fall session of Wizengamot." Harry replied nonchalantly.
"What? You brought us here to hear that drivel?" Ron asked incredulously.
"Well. Before summer with all our research into how Ministry and Wizengamot works, I got interested and thought if we can follow the session, it'll be helpful in the future. Neville and I both have seats on Wizengamots. And with Hermione, I'm pretty sure she'll invent something or do something to get an Order of Merlin which will get her a seat in the Wizengamot." Harry explained casually. Neville and Hermione nodded at that reasoning.
"But what about Fred and george?" Ron whined.
"You know they want to open a joke shop. I'm guessing that they have to look into many laws while creating products which could be misused. So they must already be learning about the loopholes. If I'm guessing correct, they'll be so successful in their joke shops that they'll have enough money to reclaim the Weasley seat in the Wizengamot." Harry raised an eyebrow at the twins.
The twins just beamed a bright smile and chorused, "You got that right."
"Alright. Why am I here then?" Ron grumbled.
"Well you helped us last year look up stuff in library and I thought you might be interested." Harry asked with a doubt.
"Fine. For the record I'm only here because I don't have anyone to play chess with." Ron said with a sigh.
They all started listening to the wireless when the scribe announced the commencement of the Fall session of Wizengamot.
Similarly Susan was setting up the wireless in Hufflepuff common room. At the looks of others, she just said, "Something monumental is going to happen in today's Wizengamot session. I don't want to wait till Daily Prophet tomorrow to hear the news."
At this most of the members who had relatives in Ministry, Wizengamot and those sixth and seventh years who were looking for a career in Ministry gathered around to listen to the wireless. With Susan being related to the head of DMLE they believed Susan to be a reliable source of information.
Albus Dumbledore opened both his arms wide and said,
"Welcome Lords and Ladies to the Fall session of Wizengamot of the year 1994. We have couple of items on agenda today. Scribe please make the roll call for the Lord's and Ladies in attendance."
The scribe quickly took down the names of those present for the session, recorded it and then called for the first item on agenda. Some groans could be heard from the audience section and a few Lords upon hearing the topic. The Standard for Cauldron bottom thickness. The session went on a dull mood for the next one hour with Percy droning on and on. Some wondered if Percy received special lessons from Professon Binns on how to put everyone to sleep. Finally after the topic was pushed out of discussion, Amelia Bones gave a slip of parchment to the scribe to be read out.
"We have a request for looking into a criminal case by Madam Amelia Bones, Head of DMLE." Scribe announced.
Everyone perked up about hearing something interesting to wake them up after that boring start of the session.
"The Wizengamot recognises Madam Amelia bones, Head of DMLE. Please proceed with the case statement." Dumbledore announced.
"Thank you Chief Warlock. This is not a trial or case hearing in conventional sense, but a carrying out judgement in accordance with the Minister's edict." Amelia announced.
Everyone frowned at this statement. What decree did the Minister pass without consulting the Wizengamot? Was there any announcement recently? When was the proclamation made? These were the questions murmured across the hall. Even Minister Fudge was frowning at this.
Amelia nodded to two groups of aurors stationed along the walls of the Courtroom. One group immediately surrounded Lucius Malfoy and grabbed him. They disarmed him, brought him down to the witness chair and shackled him to chains despite loud cries of protest. The entire dark faction was in an uproar and the Minister along with his Senior undersecretary were shouting at them to release Malfoy. The second group brought a dementor into the courtroom and immediately proceeded to administer the kiss. Only when the kiss was finally administered and the useless husk of Lucius Malfoy lowered to the chair did she order the aurors back to their places and take the dementor outside.
Everyone was shouting over each other. Amelia just stood calmly at the center of the courtroom with her hands crossed with a serene smile on her face. After almost five minutes Dumbledore raised his wand and made a loud bang to get everyone to quiet down. Minister Fudge, his face purple in apoplectic rage, stood up.
"What the hell did you do woman? who gave you the authority to kill my friend? I'll have your head for this." He spat out.
Theodore Nott Sr. the second in command for the dark faction stood up next and shouted, "He was a Lord in the Wizengamot. You have no rights to administer a dementor's kiss without any trial."
Amelia Bones calmly replied looking directly at Nott, "If you want to blame someone, blame Minister Fudge. He gave the orders to administer a dementor's kiss to a Lord of Ancient and Noble House, without any trial. All I need is a suspicion that the person is a Death Eater. This set precedence for the edict." She paused here when every member looked towards the Minister, who was sputtering in his seat incoherently. "Everyone knows or suspects Lucius Malfoy to be a Death Eater and according to Minister's orders, he was given the dementor's kiss without any trial."
"Wh- Wh- What are you talking about woman? Wh- when did I give orders to kill Wizengamot Lords?" Fudge exclaimed, sweating profusely looking here and there towards the Wizengamot members who were looking at him angrily.
"Madam Bones, If you can explain the details about how we came about this situation it will be helpful to understand it. And please refrain from dispensing judgement until the discussion is over." Lord Greengrass commented from his seat. Everyone seemed to accept this and nodded their heads. Even Albus Dumbledore seemed to accept this.
"Of course Lord Greengrass." Amelia nodded her head. "Before this Summer, Minister Fudge gave the orders to summarily execute, through Dementor's kiss, a Lord of Ancient and Noble House without any trial on the basis of being a Death Eater. This order is still in effect and that is what enabled me to administer the dementor's kiss to Lord Malfoy." She explained.
Everyone turned towards the Minister with anger in their eyes.
"B- Bu- But I never gave any such orders." Fudge sputtered out.
"Did you or did you not give the orders to summarily execute Sirius Black, Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Black?" Amelia asked.
Upon hearing Sirius' name there was another uproar in the chamber and it took another five minutes of shouting before Dumbledore let out another loud bang from his wand to quiet them.
"But Sirius Black is a Death Eater and murderer" Umbridge shouted out.
"Did you see any dark mark on his arm?" Amelia asked back.
"Everyone knows Sirius Black is a Death Eater" Fudge also shouted.
"Everyone knowing something doesn't make it true. It just makes them idiots for believing without proof. Answer me Minister, was Sirius Black given a trial when he was arrested 12 years ago? Was he given a trial when he was apprehended at Hogwarts this past summer? Were you not the first person on location when Sirius was apprehended both times? Did you not personally go to fetch the dementors to execute him?" Amelia spat back in disgust. "You may be the Minister today but who gave you the authority to kill a Lord of Most Ancient and Noble House?" She asked in a stony voice.
"Minister is this true?" Lord Ogden asked with irritation in his voice.
"Bu- Bu- But Lucius told me Sirius was disowned and hi- his son is the next in line for the Headship." Fudge stammered.
"I have papers here signed and verified by the Gringotts inheritance department saying otherwise." Amelia gave the document to scribe for the record.
Albus took a look at the record and announced, "according to this document, Sirius was reinstated into the family before the death of Lady Walburga Black and as the last scion of House Black he has been the Head of the House since."
"This just proves you conspired or at least has been an accessory in the plan to kill a Head of The Most Ancient and Noble house and usurp the title." Amelia threw out another charge.
Fudge was sweating a lot. This did not look good for him. He could see the members getting angry and Amelia just named him the culprit. He needed to do some damage control as soon as possible.
"But that document could be forged! I would not put it past the nasty filthy creatures" Umbridge spat out.
Amelia turned towards the Gringotts representative in the audience section, who was invited in case the document verification was needed, and said, "Snarktooth, Representative of Gringotts, I apologise for the remark made by Senior Undersecretary Madam Umbridge and would like to point out it is her personal opinion and does not represent the opinion of Wizengamot. I yield the floor to you for your rebuttal."
Snarktooth made his way down to the center of floor and nodded towards Amelia and said, "Thank you Madam Amelia, I'm happy to see at least one Honorable person today." He then turned towards the toad like woman with a sneer and show of sharp teeth, "Madam Umbridge, are you accusing the Gringotts of forging a document from Department of Inheritence?"
Umbridge had the presence of mind to keep her mouth shut. But she sneered at the Goblin present in front of her as if the existence of the creature was the greatest crime in the world.
"I'll take your facial expression as yes." Snarktooth continued, "I'll list the consequences of your actions in the increasing order of severity,"
"First, Madam Umbridge your accounts are closed for audit until further notice, and you are hereby banned from entering the bank premises for the next month we wouldn't want to inconvenience you by making you interact with, how did you put it?... 'nasty filthy creatures'."
"What? you can't do that. I'm the Senior.."
Snarktooth continued as if he didn't hear it, "Secondly, this is a possibility waiting to happen, if the Wizengamot finds this document from Department of Inheritance as forged then, I call into question every inheritance claimed by the members of this assembly. This will lead to the entire wealth confiscated until further notice and the seats occupied by the members will be removed until their inheritance is verified again."
There was a huge uproar from the members of the Wizengamot. Umbridge's face became pale. It was Fudge's turn to glare angrily at Umbridge.
"Third" Snarktooth continued, "According to the treaty signed between the Goblin nation and the Wizengamot on behalf of the wizards, accusing us of violating one of the clauses in treaty without any proof can lead to breaking of said treaty and Goblin nation has every right to declare a war and confiscate the entire wealth under Gringotts."
Every member knew what a war with Goblin nation can lead to. Their entire wealth is entrusted to them, it could be confiscated immediately which will lead to fighting a war with zero resources and immediate defeat.
Amelia stepped forward here, "And that is the second time the Fudge's administration directly threatened the members of Wizengamot... no the entire wizarding world with a war by taking decision without thinking about the consequences."
Lord Theodore Nott Sr. Stood up and said, "I call for the motion to repel the decree proclaimed by the Minister."
Lord Greengrass immediately followed up with, "I second the motion"
Albus Dumbledore said, "The motion is seconded. Do we need to have a discussion or shall we proceed to vote?"
"I can safely say we don't need any discussion and we are ready to vote on this." Lord Ogden said to many nods.
"Alright. Please raise your wands if you vote yes to repeal the decree." Dumbledore asked.
Everyone raised their wands lit up. It was unanimous. "By unanimous vote, the decree is hereby repealed." Dumbledore proclaimed.
"We should discuss about steps that needs to be taken to prevent such actions" a light aligned pureblood member, Elphias Doge said warily, "Any one with enough money could bribe to make a short work of his political enemies. We must safe guard ourselves."
Albus Dumbledore interrupted his friend, "why don't we break for 15 mins to stretch our legs and gather our thoughts after that intense part of this Session. Aurors please remove Mr. Malfoy from the floor and inform his family." Seeing the nods of heads all around, he banged his gavel twice on the podium.
Back in Hogwarts the Gryffindors were speechless.
"Man that was..."
"Intense and brilliant" twins said.
"Are you glad to join us to hear this now, Ron?" Neville asked.
"That was bloody brilliant. I can't wait to see Malfoy's face tomorrow" Ron told excitedly.
Only Hermione noticed the smug grin on Harry's face. She narrowed her eyes asked, "What did you do Harry?"
Everyone turned towards Harry on hearing this.
"Oh nothing" Harry simply said with a shrug.
"Come on Harry. You can't fool me. Tell us now." Hermione pressed on.
"Well remember when we were researching Wizengamot and it's laws to help Sirius. I came across few things and thought it might help. But I needed a powerful member of Wizengamot to enact my plan. I found out Susan Bones' aunt Amelia is a well respected authority figure with a grudge against Death Eaters for killing her family." Harry explained.
"When did you come up with the plan? Why didn't you say anything to us?" Hermione asked little hurt to be left out.
"Actually I was pissed off at the Death Eaters after their stunt at the World Cup. I got this idea just before we came back to Hogwarts. I knew Madam Bones was ok with the plan, I did not expect the Goblin help. It must have been Madam Bones' twist to the plan but I do not know how well it will go" Harry told them.
"... how well it will go?" Hermione repeated, "Are you saying your plan is still not complete?" She asked incredulously.
Harry had wide smile on his face. "Just wait and see."
Cornelius Fudge was running from one member to another reassuring what happened was just one big misunderstanding and he did not mean to attack any Wizengamot members. Despite his efforts he could see only few were even accepting his argument. He was dreading the resumption of the session. He was hoping against all odds there will not be a vote of no confidence called.
Amelia Bones was standing near the wall surrounded by Augusta Longbottom, Tiberius Ogden and Damien Greengrass. Some members could be seen walking towards them to have a small chat then move over towards their close allies. But these four stood together and appeared busy with their own discussion. Fudge gave a nervous glance towards them and gulped. If the entire neutral faction joined with light faction then Fudge could kiss his position good bye.
"That was a masterful play Amelia." Augusta said. "We can finally rest a little better knowing slippery tactics of Lucius are over."
"No one in the right mind believed the 'I was under Imperius defence'" Ogden added.
On seeing Damien's stony face, Amelia assured, "You need not worry Lord Greengrass. As long as you remain neutral, I don't care if you are light oriented or dark oriented."
Damien nodded his head and turned towards his faction members and gave a reassuring nod and smile.
The 15 mins break was enough to spread the news to entire Gryffindor dormitory and everyone was assembled in common room. Few people even ran to other common rooms to inform their friends. Some Ravenclaws even informed the Slytherins. When Draco was told about the fate of his father he immediately took a parchment and ran to the Owlery to contact his mother. By the time the Wizengamot session break was over, entire Hogwarts student population was assembled in their respective common rooms tuned to the wireless.
Hufflepuff common room was silent with disbelief. "Well that should put a damp cloth on Malfoy's political power." Cedric Diggory a seventh year with aspirations to follow his father's footsteps in Ministry. They heard a knock on their common room door and a second year went to check it out. He returned back with news that a Gryffindor came by to inform about the Wizengamot session and some insider information about more news will follow. Susan just shook her head.
Dumbledore banged the gavel twice to get the attention of all the members and said, "The Fall meeting of Wizengamot is hereby back in session." Here Albus nodded to the scribe.
The Scribe stood up and called out, "Madam Amelia Bones has requested again for the dispensation of Judgement according to the decree proclaimed by the Minister"
There was again pandemonium in the chamber. It took another 5 minutes of shouting over each other before Dumbledore used his wand to create a loud bang to quiet everyone.
"What are you doing woman? I'm firing you from your job effective immediately. You are not the Head of DMLE and you are not an employee of the ministry from now." Fudge shouted angrily.
"Actually you cannot remove me from the job. According to the law, Minister has the power to only appoint a Head of the DMLE, only the Wizengamot can remove me unless we are at war. You, unfortunately for you if I may add, don't have the power to do so." Amelia replied calmly.
"I thought we agreed not to dispense anymore judgement until the discussion is over?" Lord Greengrass asked dubiously.
"And on the same agreement we are discussing now. If not I would've forcefully taken another member of this chamber for judgement." Amelia maintained her calm.
"Lets step back for a moment. Amelia, we just voted to remove the decree made by the Minister. But you are still using the same decree, why?" Albus asked the question everyone was thinking.
"Simple. This Wizengamot is not a legal entity. The Ministry is the only legal institution available right now." Amelia explained.
Everyone was flabbergasted. "What do you mean The Wizengamot is not legal? This assembly was formed more than 1000 years ago and it predates the Ministry by at least 700 years. Everyone knows this history" Madam Marchbanks, Head of Department of Education said.
"Yes. I know, we even have the charter giving the rights to self govern by the George II in 1707 when the Ministry was formed." Amelia added.
"Then why do you say this assembly is not legal?" Madam Marchbanks.
"Because the charter has not being followed for the past 140 years. Which makes this assembly illegal and all the laws passed since then are also illegal. This gives the ministry to arrest everyone present here on the charges of treason and you know the punishment for treason. Loss of magic for everyone sitting here." Amelia explained.
With the words about loss of magic, pandemonium erupted in the assembly.
"Scribe please fetch the charter from the archive." Albus used the sonorous charm to loudly direct the scribe. This reduced the noise level in the chamber and many nodded at this.
"yes yes we need to make sure this institution is legit." One of the pureblood lords said loudly from top seats.
Everyone was discussing what law was broken for the charter to be not valid.
"While we wait why don't we look into what this charter is. I'm sure most of the members has heard of the Wizengamot charter but we have the session broadcast live on the wireless and people of the wizarding world could use some useful history lesson which doesn't put them to sleep." Madam Marchbanks said, ever the teacher who want the children to learn. "Can you do the honors, Amelia? Since you seem to know the problem"
"Of course, Madam" Amelia nodded and turned towards the audience, "about 100 years before Hogwarts was established, around 850 AD, the magical clans and tribes came together to form the wizards council. In those days there was no separation between the magical world and non-magical world. The Magical council was headed by the Royal Court Magician under the headship of the Monarch. Even though we had a separate council, we were still subjects of the Monarch. After the establishment of International Statute of Secrecy in 1692, King George II gave the permission for self governance and to establish a structured and organized establishment, the Wizengamot and the Ministry were formed in 1707. A charter was created for Wizengamot and Ministry which lay the foundation for the Legislative and Judicial System of the country. All the fifty clan heads who were originally part of Wizard's council were given hereditary seats. In early days the first clan to come into contact with a magical child invites the said child into the clan or tribe. After the establishment of Ministry this practice was stopped and a provision was added to the charter for commoners to rise to noble status based on the contribution to the betterment of the society that is the requirement of Order of Merlin any class. If it is from an established family, then the member is allowed to create a new separate branch family. If the member is from the main branch, then the status of the family is elevated. And we have had bright minds added to this august body based on such awards." She explained expertly.
"That was very well explained Amelia. Well deserved of the O you received in your History NEWTS." Albus Dumbledore praised. "I can see the scribe making his way down the chambers. Let us see what the violation of the charter is."
The scribe handed the charter to Albus Dumbledore, who created copies and floated them to the members with a flick of his wand.
They took 10 mins to glance over the Wizengamot charter and were discussing amongst themselves.
"If everyone is ready, I open the floor for discussion and expect Madam Bones to field the questions." Albus announced.
"Of course, Chief Warlock." Amelia nodded.
"I see standard charter laws. Which part do you say that we violated?" Elphias Doge asked.
"If you can refer the laws governing the new members of the Wizengamot. What does it say about the initiation process before seating of a new member?" Amelia asked. "Scribe if you can read the relevant law."
The scribe stood and read out loud, "Any new member to be seated in the Wizengamot, Member of a returning family or holder of Order of Merlin, must take the following oath. "I, [First Name] [Middle Name] of the House of [Family Name, do swear on my magic that I claim a place among the Wizengamot Council and accept the responsibilities to serve the country and the magical subjects of the realm and uphold the laws of the realm."
"Now please raise your hand if anyone has taken the initiation oath." Amelia challenged.
No one raised their hand and everyone was looking around at others.
"Lord Elphias Doge you are the senior most member of Wizengamot today, being part of this council for almost a century. In your experience has anyone took their oath when you joined?" Albus Dumbledore asked.
Lord Elphias Doge stood slowly and answered, "I don't remember anyone taking any such vows. I do remember something along the line of vows before taking a seat in this chamber. But since no one was following it, I thought it was one of those silly traditions that went out of fashion."
"Let me share the seriousness of that silly tradition which went out of fashion. The Wizengamot has now become an illegal body and the Ministry has unchallenged power. Basically the Ministry is a monarchy with Minister Fudge as the leader. He has the power to arrest everyone assembled here today and make sure he is in power for a very long time." Amelia said and upon glancing at the glee face of Umbridge and her quick whispers to Fudge she added, "Don't even think about it Madam Umbridge and Minister Fudge, every auror placed in this chamber today is hand picked by me and loyal to me. In case you forgot, I too am a part of an Ancient and Noble House and a designated Regent of my House and no you cannot bribe me with anything, be it money or position in your administration."
There was again loud shouting most of it focused on Minister and his senior under secretary, both of whom were scowling at Bones' remarks.
Amelia used her wand to get the attention. "I've a solution to escape our predicament. I'm sure everyone is interested to hear it." Seeing the nods all around she continued, "This chamber is sealed till the session is closed. If we step out of the chamber before we make this council legit, by the look on the face of Minister and his Senior Under-secretary, we will be arrested. So our priority is to make this council legit."
Some of the quick thinking members understood what Madam Bones was trying to say. Madam Marchbanks said out loud for the benefit of others, "So we must take the initiation oath right now and we'll become a legitimized Wizengamot Council."
"Yes", Amelia said with a smile. "Any unchallenged power becomes corrupt. Wizengamot helps keep check of Ministry while Ministry helps keeps check of corruption in Wizengamot. A balance of power. The way it is meant to be."
Noise level rose slowly as everyone started discussing with their faction members. Amelia stood on the floor with a satisfied smile.
Albus banged his gavel to get everyone's attention, "We have a simple solution in our hands. Take the oath according to the charter, claim your seats formally and we'll reform the Wizengamot before proceeding. What do you say my Lords and Ladies?"
"I say we start with senior most members and get this over with quickly. Once we are reformed, I recommend Amelia Bones for Order of Merlin for identifying a serious problem and rectifying it, thereby saving this entire Wizengamot." Lord Ogden proclaimed.
"Hear... Hear..." some members muttered.
Albus called out, "We'll start the oaths from our senior most member, Lord Elphias Doge. Elphias if you would please start with your oath."
Starting with Lord Doge, everyone slowly took their oath when their name was called. When the names started reaching the dark faction members, only Augusta Longbottom and upon pointing out, Madam Marchbanks noticed the calculating smile on Amelia. "She still has something up her sleeve. This is not over so easily." Augusta pointed out. Marchbanks nodded her head wondering what else could it be.
When Lord Rosier came forward and took his oath, he immediately screamed and went down to his knees clutching his heart. Everyone stopped what they were doing and looked at the floor where Lord Rosier was down. Now many members of the council noticed Amelia's smile. "What is going on here Madam Bones? I saw the knowing smirk on your face. You know something."
This brought everyone's attention to Madam Bones again. "I may know what is happening but in actuality it has nothing to do with me and everything to do with the oath taken."
"What do you mean it has to do with the oath?" Lord Nott asked angrily.
"It is actually simple. The Oath call for the member to serve the nation and its people. But being part of an terrorist organization like Death Eaters tend to clash with the oath taken and as you can see the punishment for treason is loss of magic." Amelia explained. She thought it was impossible but she could see the entire dark faction paled.
"But... he was pardoned for being under imperious... we all were..." Lord Crabbe shouted.
"Ah... You see Lord McKinnon took his oath without any repercussions. He was also an imperious victim in the past war. He is fine for all I can see. But all of you are forgetting something even more important, something which defines who we are. We are magical and Magic holds ultimate authority over us. You can bribe, falsify proof, intimidate witness to proclaim your innocence, but magic is out of our influence. There is no authority greater than a magical oath which is what the members of Wizengamot are swearing themselves to." Amelia explained calmly to paling faces of the dark faction members.
"Well that is a marvelous plan." Madam Marchbanks whispered to Augusta.
"Its about time these mongrels got what they deserved." Augusta nodded back.
"Well we'll just swear to our seats at later date then." Lord Crabbe proclaimed.
Many of the dark family members turned towards the de facto leader of the dark faction, Lord Nott, but he was seen scowling with a deep thought.
"Ah... You are forgetting something." Amelia said with a smirk and a discrete nod towards the aurors stationed in the chambers.
"What is that?" Lord Crabbe asked with fear in voice.
"This session is a closed session, and anyone who steps outside without taking the oath is getting arrested for treason." Amelia proclaimed.
As soon as she said those word, the death eaters except Nott stood up brandishing their wands to escape the chamber forcefully. But Amelia had anticipated this and had already signaled the aurors who simply stunned, bound and disarmed them. Nott simply surrendered his wand with a scowl, he knew with the likes of Dumbledore and Amelia it was a losing fight.
"check and mate" Ron shouted to loud cheers around the Gryffindor common room.
The entire Slytherin common room was silent. Some had ashen face, some calculating, some scowling, some disbelieving stares, but most of all, they understood the ramifications, changes are coming. Only the heirs who were younger than 16 when the Dark Lord fell were unmarked. Only unmarked heirs will be able to take up their family seats. Finally only one thought was on everyone's mind, "This will be a serious blow to the dark faction's political power".
"Holy Shite." Hannah exclaimed to the nods of other Hufflepuffs.
"Your aunt is a badass" Ernie said to Susan.
Many turned to look at Susan, who was shaking her head.
"Actually it was not aunt Amy who came up with this plan." Susan shook her head.
Everyone looked at Susan now. "What! Who then?" Ernie asked.
"It was Harry Potter and I'll explain the details later". Susan shushed everyone and increased the volume trying to hear the wireless.
After moving the known death eaters to a section near the audience, the aurors erected prisoner wards to contain them. The remaining members went back to taking the oaths to reaffirm the claim to their family seats. Once all the remaining members had taken the oath, Albus banged the gavel again, "Now that the Wizengamot members are formally seated as per the Charter, I formally open the Wizengamot Fall Session again. Now what is the next item on the agenda, unless you have anything more Amelia?"
"Actually I have." A voice shouted from the audience.
Everyone turned towards the audience section to look for the interruption. "I believe as an audience member you cannot interfere with the proceeding unless you are called to the floor as witness." Albus explained.
"Ah but I surrender myself to Madam Bones for the trial I have been denied for all these years." Saying this the middle aged man drank a potion from a small vial and his features morphed to show a smiling Sirius Black. Everyone gasped and the audience near him tried to get as far away from him as possible, screaming and shouting. The aurors went on alert and levelled their wands on him. Fudge stood up and shouted, "Aurors arrest Sirius Black."
Amelia used a sonorous charm, "Aurors, do not attack. Just bring him to the Chamber floor. Minister Fudge do I have to remind you, we are in this bind because of you doing the exact same thing you are doing now. This is a job for DMLE and that person is the Lord of Ancient and Most Noble House of Black." Fudge looked embarrassed and quietly sat down.
A young Lord from dark faction, who escaped getting arrested, asked, "Doesn't the Minister have the authority to order an arrest?"
"Minister may be the head of the Government and my boss but he only has Administrative powers. Only the head of DMLE is responsible for law enforcement. No one other than the aurors can make an arrest. Everyone else can make complaint." Amelia explained.
"But doesn't that give too much power to DMLE?" the same young Lord asked. Fudge and Umbridge nodded their heads.
"Remember what I told about powers to keep each other in check." Amelia asked, "If an employee in ministry is misusing their authority, you can raise the complaint to their superior. If the Department head is the culprit then the complaint is raised to the Minister who brings the issue to Wizengamot. If a member of Wizengamot is the accused, then the DMLE has the power arrest that person. But in all this, anyone who is arrested must be brought before Judicial panel, be it tribunal or full wizengamot, everyone is to get a trial. No one is exempted. Also you need to remember having more power tied to single position will lead to a coup. We don't want that." Amelia explained.
Two aurors were seen escorting Sirius to the floor and sat him in the accused chair and bound his hands and legs in the manacles.
"And with that we are now at the issue at hand. Sirius Black was arrested a day later after the fall of the Dark Lord and summarily sent to Azkaban." Amelia continued.
Barty Crouch Sr. who had been quiet till now said, "But he confessed to killing Potters. He is a death eater."
"How do you know he is a death eater? Where is the interrogation report for the confession? was he produced before the Wizengamot for his sentencing?" Amelia asked continuously.
Amelia walked up to Sirius and pushed up the sleeves on both his arms. "No dark mark to support your claim of death eater. When he was arrested he was in battle with Peter Petigrew. A situation in which he was under duress. He was not interrogated in Ministry. His report was written only on one eyewitness Cornelius Fudge who was working in Magical Reversal Squad at that time. As the heir of an Ancient and Most Noble house he should have been brought before the Wizengamot, but was denied a trial. The Lestranges were given trial, even your son Crouch Jr, was given trial. But why was he the only person to get his rights denied." Amelia asked with anger.
"You, Albus, who always goes on and on about second chances and redemption, why didn't you push for a trial?" Amelia asked Dumbledore who could only lower his head.
"I propose we move straight to interrogation with veritaserum. Do you comply Mr. Black.?" Amelia asked.
"Yes. Give me Veritaserum. Give me it." Sirius said with a big smile, which earned him points among the light oriented members.
"Auror Shacklebolt please administer the veritaserum." Amelia nodded to the tall black auror.
Once the potion was administered. They waited 30 secs for the potion to take hold and then Amelia started her questioning.
"State your name"
"Sirius Orion Black"
"Tell a lie. What color robes is Albus Dumbledore wearing?"
Sirius struggled to tell a lie but finally relented and said, "Blue"
"For the record, the veritaserum is working fine. Are you a death eater?"
"No"
"Have you now or previously supported the Dark Lord?"
"No"
"Were you the secret keep keeper of Potters?"
"No"
There were murmurings at this.
"Who was the actual secret keeper?"
"Peter Petigrew"
"Why did everyone thought you were the secret keeper? explain what happened"
"Remus who was a werewolf was doing some mission and on the front line, so he was not suited to be the secret keeper. Peter was not strong like James, Remus or me. With my close relation to the Potters, I was the obvious choice. We had the Fidelius charm performed by Lily. To create an additional layer of protection, I suggested to change the secret keeper to Peter while I spread rumors that I was the secret keeper. But what we did not know was Peter had already become a death eater. We always suspected a spy among us but we never suspected Peter. On that fateful Halloween night, I couldn't find Peter in his hiding place. There were no struggles to suggest otherwise. I was having a bad feeling about that and when I reached the Godrics Hollow I saw the Potter's cottage in ruin."
"Why did you chase Peter? You were a trained hit wizard, you could've come in with the facts and take reinforcements when you confronted him."
"I ran away from home after my OWLS and the Potters took me in. My mother immediately disowned me. But the Potters almost immediately adopted me. They were my only family. James was my brother in all but blood. When Dumbledore sent Hagrid to check the Potters, Harry was bleeding from the scar on his forehead. I sent him with Hagrid so that Madam Pomfrey can check him out and with Harry safe in Hogwarts under Dumbledore I was free to get my revenge. I had lost my family. I had lost my brother and sister. I was full of rage and started to track Peter. I finally confronted him in that coffee shop. But he saw me coming far away and shouted loudly how I betrayed James and Lily and used a blasting curse which hit a gas pipe and there was an explosion. In the confusion he cut off his finger and transformed into his rat animagus form to escape into the sewer. I was stunned by the explosion. I honestly thought he was dead. Next thing I knew I was thrown in azkaban without any by your leave."
"What does it mean in the previous arrest report where it is said you confessed to killing the Potters?"
"It was my idea to switch the secret keeper. It was me who suggested Peter. I'm responsible for their death." Despite being under veritaserum, tears were streaming from Sirius' eyes.
"No Sirius it the Dark Lord who killed them. It is Peter who betrayed them. It is us who are responsible for this injustice. Auror Shacklebolt please administer the antidote." Amelia said kindly. She turned to Fudge, "Now what do you say Minister Fudge? are you satisfied with the proof." She spat out. Fudge looked like he ate a fresh lemon.
Albus banged his gavel and called out, "Lets call a vote on acquitting Sirius Black of all crimes. Please raise your wand if you..."
"Sorry to interrupt." Amelia announced. "Sirius was illegally incarcerated without any trial. He was not formally charged. As such we cannot call for any votes to acquit him. All we can do is release him with a formal apology, compensation for his time in Azkaban minus the fine for being an unregistered animagus of course." Amelia nodded here to Sirius who just smiled back.
"Alright. Sirius Black, you are hereby a free citizen. The ministry will provide 2500 Galleons for every year you spent in Azkaban. 500 Galleons will be reduced for the fine for being an unregistered animagus. and 6 months of your incarceration will be counted towards the same. You have 30 days to register your animagus form, failing that you will be formally charged. Since your original wand was snapped, Ministry will pay for a new wand from Ollivander's wand shop. Aurors please get a statement from Sirius about Peter's current whereabouts and how he managed to escape Azkaban. We need to plug that escape route immediately. Congratulations on your freedom Sirius." Albus banged his gavel.
"I know I have to take up my seat in Wizengamot, but first I need to set my affairs in order. I'll be coming in next session to take up my seat formally, until then I nominate my Godson Harry Potter as my legal heir and I also nominate Amelia Bones as Proxy for the House of Black." Sirius announced to the shock of the Wizengamot members. House of Black, historically has been a dark faction member and leader. With the favors other houses owed to House Black, it always held a special place among the chamber. With Sirius Black firmly rooted in light side, this was another huge blow to the dark faction. And no one could do anything about it.
When it was announced Sirius Black was in the audience, everyone in Gryffindor common room gasped out loud.
"What the hell is padfoot doing?" Harry exclaimed loudly.
"I take it this was not in your plans?" Hermione asked Harry who shook his head. "Well he is a marauder after all, creating chaos is his specialty." she said.
"Harrykins.." Gred started.
"We just happened to overhear you calling padfoot..." Forge continued.
"Can we take it that you know who the marauders are?" Gred finished.
"Yes. But I'll tell you after the session closes." Harry sighed to the grins sported by the twins.
Every Gryffindor was rivetted to the wireless and when the Sirius was cleared of all charges Harry started whooping of joy. Gryffindors who did not know the story stared at Harry like he had gone mad. But Hermione and Ron simply said they'll explain later.
"What the hell is happening in Wizengamot today? Its like one after the other..." Ernie exclaimed.
"And you are saying Harry Potter started all this?" Hannah asked for confirmation.
"Yes" Susan confirmed.
When Sirius was declared innocent and Sirius appointed Harry as Heir Black, Cedric whistled appreciatively. When asked what was that about he explained. "As the boy-who-lived Harry already is the most famous wizard in the world, with his Potter seat in the Wizengamot he will be a political power when he comes of age. Blacks have been historically a political power house. If you add that to Harry, he will be the most politically powerful person in the country."
There was a commotion in Slytherin and at the center, it was Draco who was making the noise. "First my father is killed now my inheritance is stolen. I'm supposed to be the future Lord Black. Potter I know you are behind this. You'll pay for this." He screamed. But everyone in the snake pit knew, Draco is now a defanged snake. Every fourth sentence out of the blonde's mouth was "my father is this" and "when my father hears". But with Lucius dead and Lordship of House Black removed, Draco's political power will be significantly reduced. With only Malfoy lordship which is just a Minor Noble house as they had migrated from France few centuries back, within the Slytherin power structure Draco's standings took a deep dive.
Albus banged his gavel to bring the chamber to attention. "Shall we proceed with the session, hopefully without any more interruptions?"
"I don't think my heart could not take anymore surprises." Lord Doge said loudly with a chuckle.
"I propose we adjourn the session and reconvene an emergency session tomorrow to continue." Lord Ogden announced. "Amelia, do you have any more surprises left?" he asked joking.
"Well I do not have anything else. But before we close the session, we should decide about Minister Fudge's overstepping his authority. I do not want to walk into the session tomorrow to hear he has created a new edict which declares everyone to be arrested." She added with a malicious smile towards Fudge and Umbridge who were glaring at her.
Fudge was hoping they would forget about him in the confusion created by Black, but the bint Amelia Bones proved to be a greater adversary and reminded the chamber about him.
"I propose a vote of no confidence in Fudge's administration and call for vote to immediately remove his entire administration from power." Augusta announced.
"I Second the motion." Lord Greengrass announced.
When Lord Greengrass seconded the motion, Fudge knew his goose was cooked. With Neutrals siding with light, they'll have the majority to remove him from power and just as he feared, by majority votes, he was removed from office. Even the dark faction members who escaped the judgement thought he was a bad investment and voted him out. Only the members who were too deep with him voted for him. But few votes couldn't do anything against the overwhelming majority. Fudge decided to get his finance in order and cover his bribe money tracks before the emergency session the next day.
"With the removal of the Minister of Magic, by default, the head of DMLE, Madam Amelia Bones will be appointed as interim Minister. People who wants to throw their hats for the position of Minister may do so in tomorrow's session. We'll have the election next weekend." Albus banged his gavel twice.
"Both of you are under arrest, Cornelius Fudge and Dolores Umbridge for corruption and treason." Amelia and the aurors moved towards them.
Once they were moved to the ministry cells, the session was closed. The reporters who were present in the audience section ran out to their papers for the special edition which they were sure would hit the stands tomorrow.
"Well that was a productive day." Harry said casually and stretched his hands above his head.
"You used their own rules against them..."
"And toppled the entire government..." the twins said before they looked at each other and kneeled before Harry repeatedly bowing and shouting,
"We are not worthy... We are not worthy..."
Harry laughed out loud and said, "Get up you idiots."
When other Gryffindors asked what was happening Neville and Ron quickly explained that everything that happened in Wizengamot was according to Harry's plans. This news quickly spread across the common room and everyone was in awe at Harry. Few could be seen running out of the tower towards the other common rooms.
Before dinner entire Hogwarts population knew everything that happened in Wizengamot Chambers was triggered by Harry Potter's plans. Even the Teachers followed the gossip and were discussing among themselves. Professor Snape as usual was seething in his chair. The chattering volume rose to high levels as students discussed the happenings and ramifications of the changes. Harry arrived in the Great Hall in the midst. Silence descended over the Great Hall. There was a scattered applause from students in Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and a few in Ravenclaw. Most were in awe and stared at him. On the other hand green clad students in Slytherin sneered and gnashed their teeths towards him. Harry quickly strode towards the Gryffindor table and sat down with his friends. He made sure to sit as close to head table in full view of Professor McGonagall. He had a suspicion either Draco or Snape will do something and he needed her to put them in place. As he expected as soon as Draco arrived in the Great Hall, he stomped towards Harry taking out his wand and screaming, "POTTER! YOU ARE GOING TO PAY FOR WHAT YOU DID TO MY FATHER. Diffindo" He sent a cutting curse aiming for Harry's neck. Harry simply raised his wand, "Protego" and shielded from the curse.
To his no astonishment Snape arrived and said, "Potter. For disrupting the meal with your spell casting, that will be 50 points from Gryffindor and a weeks worth of detention with me."
Harry turned towards the head table and could see Prof. McGonagall was already approaching them. "Prof. Snape, Everyone saw it was Mr. Malfoy who attacked Mr. Potter. All Mr. Potter did was to defend himself. As Deputy Headmistress I'm reversing the point loss and the detention. Mr. Malfoy, for your actions that will be fifty points from Slytherin and a week of detention with Mr. Filch."
Both Draco and Snape sneered at McGonagall and turned to go back to their places. Draco sniped at Harry before leaving, "This isn't over Potter."
"Mr. Potter, The Headmaster would like a word in his office after dinner. Password for this week is Everlasting Gobstopper." Prof. McGonagall informed before she returned to her dinner.
Harry turned to Hermione and said thoughtfully, "I'm guessing everyone knows my involvement with today's events. You know I wonder how quick the Hogwarts rumor mill spreads a news. We should do an experiment with that."
"Nah I've stopped thinking about rumor mill long back. I had a thought like that in first year but after seeing gossiping portraits, communication diaries and charms, I've decided to drop it." Hermione replied after finishing a bite of her dinner sandwich.
After dinner Harry bade goodbye to his friends and reached the Headmaster's office.
"Come in Harry" invited Dumbledore's voice before he could knock on the office door.
"You wanted to see me Headmaster." Harry asked.
"Please have a seat. Yes My boy. I heard that we have you to thank for the excitement in the Wizengamot Chambers today."
"It is not entirely my fault. I did not expect Sirius to make an appearance."
Albus nodded and added, "But it is your plan Amelia executed."
Harry sighed and said, "When Minister Fudge refused to accept the testimonies from Hermione and me, I didn't know what to do to help Sirius. We went to the library and researched the laws and Ministry workings. We did not find anything concrete to help him. Then the Quidditch World Cup fiasco happened. We met Malfoy in the nearby woods, and his words gave me hint that the riot was organized by his father. So I used their own rules to play their game. Everything I did is legal. If they have any grievances then it is their own fault they enacted those laws."
"I'm just worried what the retaliation will be, my boy" Albus shook his head.
Harry was getting irritated by this attitude. He hotly replied, "Tell me this Headmaster, if the bad guys can do bad deeds without worrying about consequence, why should good guys care about consequence of doing good deeds?"
There was silence for a moment when Albus pondered that statement and finally dismissed Harry to the dorm.
Harry walked towards the Gryffindor tower, thinking I'm hundred percent sure my name is going to be included in the Triwizard tournament. I wonder how I can screw everyone with the rules again. I should gather my friends and start the research.
Author's Note: I felt this is a good point to stop here. I'll probably add another one shot to continue this AU but it is not in plans right now. If anyone wants to adopt this plot just give me a ping.