All Rights reserved for J.K. Rowling and Warner Media/Discovery. I do not own Harry Potter.
Chapter Three
A Feast at the Ministry
"I wanted to meet you on the train, but my mother told me-" Ginny said weakly.
"That I'm not a zoo animal," Harry said with a giggle. "I know, I heard her." Harry saw that she had bushed. "Not that I have a problem with that, I honestly think I need to start getting used to all the stares."
Ginny still blushed. "I'm sorry if I made you feel embarrassed."
"Not really," said Harry. "Honestly, after your mom helping me and your brother, I think I'd prefer your family stares over anyone else."
Again, Ginny blushed, but rather than for embarrassment, her new blush was happy. She seemed to think he had given her this great compliment. Harry could not explain why at the time, but this made him smile genuinely. He could not understand why. He was frankly too young to understand why.
"How do you feel about being a Guardian?" asked Ginny.
"A little overwhelmed," admitted Harry.
"Well, you've got help," she said.
Harry looked at Neville and Ron and strangely agreed with Ginny's statement, especially since he did have Dumbledore by his side.
"Thanks," Harry said.
She gave him another smile without the blush and with a bit of pride. At that point, Ron had walked over and stood before Ginny. He looked slightly annoyed, but mainly towards Ginny.
"No hug from your brother?" he asked.
"I saw you yesterday," she said.
"When Fred and George left, you cried for a day," said Ron, disappointed. "Aren't you gonna congratulate me?"
Ginny decided to give her brother a break and hugged him. Just then, an older, balding man with bright red hair and spectacles approached them and patted Ron on the back, staring at the redheaded boy with pride. Harry correctly guessed this man was Ron's father, Arthur, which was clarified a second later.
"We're all very proud of you, son," said Arthur, causing a small tear to run down Ron's face. The older man then turned his attention to Harry. "You must be Harry Potter," he said. "I didn't know if Molly was being truthful."
"Why would I lie about that, Arthur!" said Molly.
"Well, you must admit, Molly. It was rather surprising to hear Harry Potter ask for help, almost as surprising as hearing our son and three others were named as Guardians of Hogwarts," defended Arthur.
"Yes," said Dumbledore, finally speaking to the whole of the room at large. "I think the past few days' events have been nothing if not surprising for everyone. Nevertheless, we can begin if all of you have a seat."
Even though he said it politely, everyone treated it like an order. Harry wondered if this was out of respect for Dumbledore as a wizard or out of respect for his authority as Headmaster, or both. Nevertheless, Harry joined everyone in sitting, and the Headmaster conjured multiple chairs for every guest. The three Guardians were seated in the center, Harry in the middle, Neville on the left, and Ron on the right. Neville sat next to his grandmother, while Ron sat next to his parents and younger sister. Harry could not see, but Ginny would keep giving the boy glances.
Dumbledore eyes the three boys in front of him. He felt a momentary sprout of sympathy towards young Mr. Potter when he saw how everyone's caretaker and parents, even the Malfoys, reacted positively to news of their children being Guardians. Beyond positively even, they reacted with absolute pride, something Dumbledore doubted the Dursleys ever showed Harry, or will ever show for that matter. Dumbledore was even a bit disappointed that Harry was not upset that his guardians were not present.
"Now," began Dumbledore, "I understand that everyone here has questions, but we should start out simple."
"Is there a chance we can meet the teachers you've assigned to my son?" asked Molly.
"Yes, I was hoping to hear from some of them," inquired Augusta Longbottom.
"Of course, the instructors and teachers to assist with Harry, Neville, and Ron's training which will go towards their N.E.W.T.s and O.W.L.s grades, as well as preparation for any careers outside of Hogwarts, though being a Guardian is a lifelong appointment," explained Dumbledore. "At least until they pass it on."
This was news to Harry. He had been curious about how long he would remain a Guardian, but he did not know he could pass it on. "Pass it on?" asked Harry.
"Yes, you are not allowed to pass on the responsibility of being a Guardian while at school, however, you may pass the mantle of Guardian down to a first year you find worthy. Though, this is the least of our concerns," replied Dumbledore. "Now, to answer your question, we have already assigned instructors and teachers to train our Guardians. They can attend regular meals with their peers, in fact it is encouraged, though you are allowed to eat meals in your own suites and while you should still attend the regular classes, afterward said classes, you will spend a section of the day training with these instructors to hone your skills."
"Who are these instructors?" asked Arthur.
"Well, down to business. Ron's instructors for his first years will be our own Filius, as well as Xenophilius Lovegood," said Dumbledore.
"Xenophilius!" said Molly, surprised.
"I can see your shock, but I can assure you, despite his eccentricities, Xenophilius was a gifted student and an expert of potions and charms," said Dumbledore. "As for Filius, he is a dueling prodigy."
Professor Flitwick looked proud, puffing out his chest. This answer seemed to please Molly and Arthur as they nodded approvingly at Dumbledore. The aged professor then turned to the Longbottoms, Neville, and his grandmother.
"As for Neville, his instructors will be two old friends of mine. Theseus Scamander and Remus Lupin," said Dumbledore.
"I remember Lupin, he was close with my son, and Harry's father," said Augusta, taking in the information.
"He knew my father!" said Harry, shocked.
Dumbledore's disappointment in the Dursleys grew. Not only had they reframed from telling Harry about magic, but about anything concerning this world. Dumbledore would have to rectify that at once.
"Remus Lupin was a close and personal friend of your father, and I am sure he would love to see you again. I know this must be a great shock to you, but I'm sure Lupin can explain it better than me," said Dumbledore.
This soothed Harry for the moment, though his mind was still aflutter with questions, and only now was he realizing how little he knew of his parents. He was sure these were all questions he could face sooner or later, but now; he was focused on what was being explained. Harry did not notice, but Molly and Ginny were eyeing him, their eyes concerned.
"As for Theseus Scamander, he seems a bit old for such a task. Isn't he 103," inquired Augusta.
Dumbledore only smiled. "Yes, but if you and I have shown anything, it is that age is never an obstacle."
This satisfied the old woman. "Couldn't agree more. Be sure to listen to everything Mr. Scamander, and Mr. Lupin has to say, Neville."
"Will do, gran," said Neville meekly.
"As for Mr. Potter, your instructors will surprise a few in this room. I have chosen Alastor Moody and Bill Weasley as your instructors," said Dumbledore.
"BILL!" Molly gasped.
"He agreed to this!" said Ron happily.
"What about Gringotts? Surely they'll miss him?" asked Arthur.
"Recent events have pulled Bill back to England sooner and he agreed to act as a Curse Breaker for the many vaults at the bank. The goblins were pretty enthusiastic when I asked Bill if he'd train young Harry, but the goblins have been very enthusiastic about Mr. Potter as of recently."
"You'll love Bill. He is one the coolest guys you'll ever meet," said Ron excitedly.
"He's one of my favorite brothers," said Ginny, excited about this news.
"And I hear Alastor Moody is a legend," added Neville.
"Remember to show respect towards Mr. Lovegood and Professor Flitwick, Ronald," said Molly sternly.
"You too, Neville," said Augusta.
"Professor, I was curious, if possible, could we train together, the three of us?" asked Harry.
After a lifetime of being downright told no all the time, Harry half expected Dumbledore to tell him it was out of the question. However, the aged Headmaster looked positively delighted by this question.
"Yes, Harry, I think that is a great idea. You will be spending much of your time at Hogwarts in the company of your fellow Guardians, though despite your differences, I will ask you to extend this offering to Mr. Malfoy," agreed Dumbledore.
A dark look fell over Arthur's face once that name was mentioned, shared by Augusta Longbottom. "What's to be done about Lucius' son being a Guardian?" the Weasley Patriarch asked gravely.
"Arthur, Draco is still a boy," urged his wife.
"Molly is right, while I hold the same suspicion as you, Arthur, Draco is thankfully not yet his father," ensured Dumbledore. "There is still time to sway his views."
Ron saw that Harry looked confused and leaned in and whispered, "I'll explain later."
"That actually leads to our next form of discussion. Dinner tonight. As you are all aware, many Ministry officials should be present, including the Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge," said Dumbledore.
"I remember Hagrid talking about him, sir," said Harry.
"Yes, and he did tell me what he said about the Minister. So, I must warn you boys that Minister Fudge is a man who cares about his image more than anything. Just be weary of him, he might try to fluff you all up," warned Dumbledore, though there was no hint of graveness in his voice. However, his tone shifted to importance when he spoke again. "The same cannot be said about Dolores Umbridge."
Harry noticed something odd happen. Many of the adults present began to adopt more grim and hateful expressions. Arthur Weasley looked like he wanted to punch someone, while Professor McGonagall rolled her eyes in, Professor Snape grunted, and Augusta Longbottom was taking tiny breaths to calm herself.
"Dad told me about her," said Ron worriedly. "She seems," Ron turned to his mother and knew he should pick his words carefully, "a little controlling."
"There's more than control behind her, she is someone who I'd suggest you stay weary of," warned Dumbledore. "What I am trying to advise is to be cautious when dealing with the Ministry, there are more snakes there than a den of serpents. Now, as for the location of the dinner. Minister Fudge was able to convince me to use the Ministry's Banquet Hall, but I was able to convince him to make the dinner private from the press, though at a price."
"What price, Albus?" asked Augusta gravely.
Dumbledore sighed. "I agreed to allow him to take a picture with each of the Guardians," Dumbledore then looked apologetically at the three boys. Already they understood more of the pressure faced against them. It even looked like this was beginning to sink in for Ron. "But you all have the defense and guidance of Hogwarts behind you," reassured Dumbledore.
"Wait a minute," that was when Harry thought of something. "Is this dinner formal? Because I don't have anything to wear."
"Yes, but I'm glad you asked because there is something I wish to give you," smiled Dumbledore.
A second later, Professor McGonagall, Professor Flitwick, and Professor Sprout brought the three batches for each. McGonagall handed Harry a gold and red metal badge. The badge was of a sword, with a lion's head in the background. Ron's was the same but was blue and bronze with an eagle on the ground, and Neville's badge was yellow and black with a badger in the backdrop.
"While it is somewhat formal, you and the other Guardians and students attending are allowed to wear your school robes, under the condition the Guardians wear those, the badges indicate who you are," explained Dumbledore.
"Other students?" said Neville.
"Families are allowed to attend the dinner, and since some of Ron's brothers are still at Hogwarts, they are allowed to attend as well," replied McGonagall.
"Yes," said Molly strictly. "Which reminds me. We should probably talk to Fred and George before we leave."
Professor McGonagall seemed to realize why the Weasley matriarch wished to speak to the twins and nodded, agreeing. "I will fetch them after this meeting."
"Yes, I expect everyone to be on their best behavior, student, staff, and family," Dumbledore said to the entire room. Everyone nodded.
HP
Harry, Ron, and Neville spent another hour in the Headmaster's Office, going over the various requirements of being a Guardian and what the time would be like. At one point, Ron's brothers, Fred and George, were summoned, and in private, Molly told her sons to be on their best behavior or the consequences would be dyer. Judging by their faces, the twins listened. Dumbledore had asked the three to return at five in the afternoon. The three then spent a reasonable amount of time getting to know each other's families.
It almost felt like Molly had instantly adopted both Harry and Neville. She began to fume around the two and even offered for them to stay over the Borrow for the holidays, which Augusta agreed to. At one point before the boys departed, Dumbledore had taken Harry aside and explained that he did not have to return to the Dursleys again.
"What," said Harry. Usually, if a child heard they would never have to return to the place they called home for ten years, they would be upset, but Harry seemed to contain great happiness.
This happiness ended when he saw the distressed look on the Headmaster's face, a mingled expression of regret and shame. "Harry," he said softly. "I wanted to say…you are welcome to stay at the castle as long as you wish."
Harry nodded. It appeared like the Headmaster wished to say more, but something restrained him, some force of conflict deep within the old wizard Harry could not understand. However, with everything that had and would be happening today, Harry decided to let the matter sit in the back of his mind for the time being.
When the three boys finally exited the Headmaster's Office, they walked back to their suites and were surprised to see Draco close by, chatting with Pansy Parkinson and her friends. When Harry, Ron, and Neville approached, Draco pretended not to notice them. Pansy was too enthralled in her conversation to care, however, Daphne and Millicent did notice.
"Oh, hey guys," said Millicent nicely.
Ron was trying to ignore them, but Harry decided to be polite. "Hello, I don't think we were introduced. Harry Potter."
This amused the girls. "We all know who you are, the Boy Who Lived. Many tales have been spun on you," Daphne said inquiringly.
"I really prefer just Harry," replied Harry modestly.
This only increased Daphne's inquisitive gaze at him. "Strange, most would die to hold the amount of fame befallen on you, so why do you reject it. Odd."
"I never really asked for any of that," said Harry uncomfortably. "Anyway, this is Ron Weasley, and Neville Longbottom."
"Charmed," said Daphne pompously.
"Nice to meet you all," said Millicent, shyly speaking for the first time.
"It's nice to meet you too," said Neville shakily.
"Yeah, nice," said Ron Awkwardly.
"How are you guys enjoying the first day or so?" asked Harry, attempting some type of conversation.
"Oh, it was fine, though the dungeon does seem dark," said Millicent.
"Nothing like the suites you all stay in. Draco had promised to show us around one of these days," replied Daphne.
"Yes, very soon," said Pansy talking for once. "Right?"
"Yes, of course," Draco then turned to the three other Guardians with a somewhat sour look. "Potter, Weasley, Longbottom, you've met Pansy."
Pansy looked at the three with a slight annoyance. "Charmed," she said shortly.
"It's nice to meet you," said Harry.
"Same," replied Pansy, though it seemed to be forced politeness. Neville and Ron only nodded.
"What is it, Potter?" asked Draco.
Harry took from his pocket the Slytherin Guardian Badge Dumbledore asked him to give to Draco. With bright eyes, like a child on Christmas morning, Draco took it. For a second, Harry forgot his initial disliking of the Malfoy boy and took amusement in his expression. The three Slytherin girls seemed impressed as Pansy and Daphne observed it.
"It's magnificent," said Pansy.
"Well, it seems official. You boys have reached a higher class in this school," said Daphne, impressed.
After a few moments, the girls left, though as Pansy was saying a very thoroughly goodbye, Daphne and Millicent gave the other three strange looks none could decipher. Draco smiled as he talked to Pansy, though his smile faded when he turned to Harry.
"Well, see you tonight," Draco said bluntly.
"Wait," Harry said. "Me, Ron, and Neville agreed to train together, and we were wondering if you wanted to join us?"
Draco laughed at this. Not a loud laugh, but a slight chuckle annoyed Harry and Ron. "And why would I wish to join you," scoffed Draco.
"Because if we're all training together, don't you think as a Guardian you should train with us too. We're going to be working together anyway," argued Harry.
"I am the Guardian of Slytherin, so therefore my duties are towards Slytherin House as a whole," retorted Draco.
"Actually, you're a Guardian of Hogwarts, you just represent Slytherin. So wouldn't it make sense to train with the other Guardians," replied Harry, though he figured this was a losing battle.
"All the reason for me to train alone. We are going to be forced to spend way more unnecessary time together, so I will take these moments away from you all as a blessing," said Draco. "Anything else?"
"Yes, we are returning to the Headmaster's Office at five to attend the dinner, so be ready," replied Harry.
Without another word, Draco nodded and left. Ron seemed to think the entire exchange between the Slytherins and themselves was a mistake, though considering how it went, Harry and Neville could not blame him.
"We have to spend most of our time at Hogwarts with him," snapped Ron once Draco was out of sight.
"I have to agree. Things are difficult enough, now we got to deal with him on a constant basis," added Neville.
"Honestly, I think one day or another, he's gonna realize how much responsibility this is," said Harry.
HP
For the remainder of the day, Harry, Ron, and Neville spent it together or in their suites. Harry felt he could use a break from the stares and whispers behind his back. He mainly read through the book Hermione had given him, learning how to form a coven to have some witch sign her name on an enchanted parchment, as well as a drop of blood, then they will share a link between magic. Harry was taking great satisfaction in his setting. He would have sent a picture to the Dursleys to gloat if he were a petty boy.
When the hour drew near to head to Dumbledore's Office, Harry decided to take more comfort. He took an extra shower, dressed in his robes, and placed the Guardian badge in clear view on his right breast pocket. As he left, he saw Neville and Ron waiting for him, both eager but nervous. In no time, Draco emerged from his suite pompously.
"Now you will see how a real gentleman acts," he told the others.
"Will there be someone there who will instruct you on being a gentleman," replied Ron.
"Weasley, I wouldn't-" Harry stopped Draco.
"Guys, remember we're representing the school. Maybe try and act respectable," said Neville.
Harry was surprised and impressed by his clumsy friend's small and brief amount of bravery because Harry decided to agree with him and put aside whatever rivalry he had with the Slytherin Guardian.
"Neville's right. The Headmaster and the Minister for Magic will be attending, whatever we say or do, they will look to Hogwarts as a response. We should try to be civil," said Harry firmly.
Neville, Ron, and Draco all nodded, but Neville did so with eagerness, while Ron and Draco did so reluctantly. As the four walked together, they were met by Professor McGonagall halfway there, who escorted them to the office. She was wearing robes that seemed both formal and casual. All the students were eating their dinners in the Great Hall, meaning the halls were empty. When they arrived at the Office, Professors Dumbledore, Snape, Flitwick, and Sprout were all waiting, and like McGonagall, their attire could be described as formal yet casual, though Dumbledore's robes looked the same.
The aged Headmaster smiled at the four boys as they entered. Snape seemed to groan inwardly. "Let's get this over with," he said.
"Yes, we should head off. Ah, have any of you ever traveled by Floo Powder?" asked Dumbledore. Ron, Neville, and Draco shook their heads while Harry looked confused. You did a great disservice, Dursley, Dumbledore thought. "Well then, Harry, why don't you watch Minerva see how it's done."
"Take notice, Mr. Potter," advised McGonagall. The deputy headmistress walked to the fireplace and took a handful of powder. "Ministry of Magic's Banquet Hall!" she said clearly, dropping the powder as green flames engulfed her. In a second, she was gone.
"Mr. Weasley, how about you go next," suggested Dumbledore, as Harry was too stunned to react.
"Seen you soon," Ron said, walking to the fireplace and copying McGonagall's actions.
"Now you, Mr. Potter," said Dumbledore.
Cautious but calmly, Harry walked to the fireplace, took a handful of powder, and stepped in. "Ministry of Magic Banquet Hall," he said clearly, dropping the powder.
Harry felt a strange sensation as the green flames took him. Yet this feeling was momentary, as with short seconds, he was somewhere else. He was in a large banquet hall with bright white walls and a massive chandelier that hung above. Hall looked to be built for dances and eloquent parties, but in the center of the hall was a large table decorated in fine tablecloths with copious amounts of food.
"Ah, you must be Harry," said a portly man with a green bowler hat, rushing over to greet the boy. "I have been wishing to meet with you, for a while now, but Dumbledore has refused to set up a meeting. Cornelius Fudge, Minister for Magic."
"Harry," he replied.
Now he was seeing why Dumbledore asked them to be weary. This man oozed condescension and false sweetness. Harry was also taken aback by how the Minister for Magic went straight for him, even though Ron was still standing there.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, young man," Fudge's false sweetness was nothing compared to the toad lady in front of him. "Dolores Umbridge, Senior Undersecretary of the Minister."
Harry shook her hand, but frankly, he was surprised he had met someone he took an instant dislike towards, which reminded him of Aunt Marge. Thankfully, Harry did not need to spend too much time with these two as the others began to arrive.
"Ah, young Malfoy," said Fudge, as if speaking to a longtime friend.
Fudge rushed over to meet Draco. Despite the boost to Draco's already inflated ego, Harry was glad the attention was taken off him as he moved over to Ron and McGonagall, who looked just as annoyed with Fudge. McGonagall could not resist rolling her eyes, and Ron sighed.
"Well, hello, young Guardian," said a stern but kindly figure.
Harry saw two other figures, along with Ron and McGonagall, were present. Both were older, though the woman looked middle-aged. She was lovely, with a kind face and bright gray hair, wearing very professional robes. The tall man next to her wore a suit with a long mane of hair and spectacles.
"Amelia Bones, Mr. Potter, Head of the Magical Law Enforcement," Amelia said.
"Rufus Scrimgeour, Head of the Auror Office," the man said proudly.
"Auror?" asked Harry.
Both Scrimgeour and Bones looked puzzled. "Harry grew up with his muggle relatives," answered Ron.
"Oh, well an Auror is a sort of magical law enforcer, similar to those pleaseman the muggles have," replied Scrimgeour.
"Wait, Bones. Are you related to Susan Bones?" asked Harry.
"My niece, you must have seen her sorted. She was very excited when you and the others were announced as Guardians," said Amelia Bones with a strange smile.
"Oh," said Harry confused.
Modest, I can see why my niece fancies him, Madam Bones thought.
Minister Fudge seemed determined to shake everyone's hand, especially Dumbledore's once they went through. Soon the parents and guardians arrived. While Fudge showed little interest in the Weasleys and Madame Longbottom when they arrived, he acted with familiarity, even admitting to being unsurprised that his son was named Guardian.
Molly and Arthur brought Percy, the twins, and Ginny when they arrived. Enthusiastically, Percy walked over to the Minister for Magic, Umbridge, Madam Bones, and Scrimgeour, confessing what an honor it was to meet them all. His father, Arthur, on the hand, was very cordial with Madam Bones and fair with Scrimgeour. However, Fudge ignored the Weasleys altogether, while Umbridge and Lucius did not even hide their disgust towards them but never acted on it. The twins walked over to Harry, Ron, and Neville and seemed to be restricting themselves, wanting to cause some trouble.
Then Ginny appeared. She was wearing a light green dress that was absolutely lovely. Because of his age, Harry was confused by the feelings of butterflies in his stomach when he saw her and assumed something was wrong with his digestion. Ginny hid her blush when she saw him look at her and a significant smile.
A picture of each with Fudge and then one of all four together was taken. Harry was never photogenic but did his best. Once all that fussing about was done, dinner was ready. Harry, Ron, Neville, and Draco were seated in the center, while Fudge and Dumbledore were at the end. Ginny was able to sit next to Harry, close to her parents. Harry was happy since it meant he was the furthest away from Fudge and Umbridge.
"So how do you feel about your children being named Guardians?" asked Fudge to the room at large.
"Proud. Though not surprised. Me and Narcissa's bloodline both date back to when wizards first came to Europe," boasted Lucius.
"How about you, Wetherbee?" Fudge asked Arthur.
"Weasley," whispered Madam Bones.
"Oh, yes, Weasley," corrected Fudge.
"Well, I'm really excited. After sending so many children on the train, we were hoping for a quiet year," said Arthur.
"So imagine our surprise when Dumbledore sent an owl explaining Ron had been made Guardian, quite amazing, though we were surprised Ron was the Guardian of Ravenclaw, me and Arthur's families have always been Gryffindors," explained Molly.
"That is interesting, though I've heard some family members can try off the path their families took," said Narcissa politely. Lucius briefly shot his wife a look, discouraging her from talking to the Weasleys.
"True, my niece was sorted into Hufflepuff, while most of the Bones Family have been in Gryffindor," said Madam Bones.
"As for Neville, I have to say I was shocked. He's already making his name proud," said Augusta beamed.
"Yes, I worked with his parents. Fine, fine Aurors," said Scrimgeour, eying the boy.
Suddenly, Neville seemed uncomfortable and upset. Though he did his best to hide it, Augusta also seemed troubled.
"Yes, tragic, though you think trained Aurors would be able to handle such tasks," said Umbridge.
Now, Augusta was angry. Even Molly and Arthur, and the other teachers looked peeved. Harry and Ron were lost, and Draco looked like he was about to speak but was silenced by his mother. Neville was still upset, but even he had a silent rage towards the Undersecretary. Whatever the reason behind her words, Harry and Ron knew they hurt Neville, and from now on, they would hate this Umbridge woman.
Luckily, Percy chimed in, quickly changing the topic. "My brothers were very successful," he said.
"Yeah, Bill was Head Boys," added Fred.
"And Charlie was a Quidditch captain," said George, even though they knew the topic needed to change, though a moment later, the twins looked evilly at Umbridge, planning some foul revenge.
"Interesting," said Fudge.
Throughout the rest of the dinner, Neville looked troubled, while Umbridge looked definite. However, Umbridge was not done making this difficult.
"Where is Mr. Potter's family?" asked Umbridge.
Harry looked intensively. He had known he would not see the Dursleys here. Even if they were still his guardians, they would never set foot in any magical establishment. Still, Harry hoped to keep his former home life separate from his new life. Hell, he'd be happy if he never heard the name Dursley again.
"Harry's relatives had an important dinner to attend and were unable to make it, though they did send their regards," answered Dumbledore calmly.
Harry knew this was a lie. They would never send anyone in the magical world regard but were grateful for Professor Dumbledore's quick thinking. However, this did not stop Umbridge.
"You think their relative being named a Guardian of Hogwarts would be more than important. What is your family like?" asked Umbridge, the wheels in her twisted head turning.
"Yes, you were raised by muggles, yes," there was something in Fudge's tone, the way he said muggles, that gave the other's caution. It almost sounded like a masked disgust.
"Oh, nothing extraordinary. My aunt and uncle raised me, nothing too special," Harry replied.
"Yes, but in the muggle world. Surely it must have been exciting," said Arthur, which caused Umbridge, Percy, and Lucius to stare at him like he had said something inappropriate.
"Not as much as you think. The place I grew up in was pretty boring. Though my aunt and uncle preferred it that way," said Harry.
Luckily, the conversation was able to move away from Harry's old home life, and into the training, they would receive. However, the damage was done. Both Lucius Malfoy and Umbridge looked to be taking in the information and slowly planning something. Dumbledore and McGonagall looked regretful, and Molly looked worried. Why was he alone in a packed train station, to begin with, she thought?
After overcoming some awkwardness, Harry could enjoy the company of Ron, Neville, Ginny, and the twins. Molly smiled at the friends her son had made. The grown-ups talked, with Percy trying to chime in but always being drawn to the younger conversations. Harry found he loved hearing stories about the magical world and what it could have been like growing up in it. He also found he immensely enjoyed the company of Ginny and the twins. Draco pretended not to be listening at first, but by the end, his head, ears, and eyes were on them. Narcissa smiled at this. Maybe there is hope, she thought.
After a few hours, the time had come to return to Hogwarts. The Minister made sure to shake all four of the boys' hands. Rufus Scrimgeour and Madam Bones said their warm goodbyes, while Umbridge gave all of them a curious eye.
"Headmaster, would it trouble you if me and my wife traveled back to Hogwarts briefly. To say goodbye to our son?" asked Lucius.
Professor Dumbledore knew this was not the reason behind this request but decided to grant it, seeing how Molly, Arthur, and Augusta would ask the same question.
"Maybe we come too, professor?" asked Arthur, right on cue.
"Of course, goodbyes are always difficult though," said Dumbledore. "Minister, friends, it has been a pleasure."
One by one, each of them returned to the Headmaster's Office by Floo. The four Guardians were tired but stayed long enough to say goodbye. Molly not only wished her son luck but Harry and Neville as well. As Harry was preparing to leave, the small figure of Ginny Weasley stopped him. She seemed nervous about what she was about to ask.
"Harry…if it is alright, could I write to you?" she asked.
"Of course, it would be nice to hear from others," said Harry.
Ginny's embarrassment was quickly replaced by joy upon hearing this answer.
"What about me," asked Ron.
"I was already going to write to you," replied Ginny, hugging her brother goodbye.
In the Headmaster's Office, Molly summoned the twins and Percy to stay behind. She quickly adopted the well-known stern gaze, which meant she was about to give an order.
"Boys, I want you to watch over Ron, as well as Harry and Neville," she instructed.
"They have training," said Fred.
"Yes, but Ron is still your brother. This places a lot of pressure on his head, and I want him to know he has support. I mean it, boys. This is serious," she said firmly.
"Your mother is right," said Arthur strictly. "Help him out in any way you can."
The twins knew this was serious when they saw how stern their father looked. Nodding agreeing, the three brothers decided to do all they could to help Ron.
HP
Severus Snape hid his annoyance. Lucius Malfoy had taken him aside while Narcissa said one final goodbye to Draco. They now stood in an abandoned corridor. Snape knew what this was on. Lucius was about to ask him for information of some kind.
"Severus, I'm curious," began Lucius. "As I recall, you were once close with the Potter Boy's mother in school."
Now, Snape was hiding his anger. Being used for information was one thing. Using the information on Lily was a new level of low for Lucius. As far as he knew, Lucius did not even deserve to speak Lily's name.
"Yes, I was," he answered.
Lucius smiled a wicked and pleased grin. "Yes, her last name was Evans, right?"
"Yes," replied dryly.
"What did you know about her sister," Lucius asked.
"Only that her name was Petunia and she and Lily didn't get along," Snape answered.
Strangely, this was much of the truth. While in the earlier days of their friendship, Lily had confessed much to Petunia, Lily mentioned her less and less as the years drew on. Lily and Petunia's falling out seemed to happen quicker than her and Snape's. At this point, for all Snape knew, Petunia could be in the circus or shipped off to a foreign land.
"Nothing else?" asked Lucious curiously. "You were from Cokesworth, right?"
"Yes, but as you know, Lily and I had a falling out, and even then, she barely mentioned her sister," replied Snape. "All I know is she married a muggle."
"Thank, Severus, that is quite enough. Have a pleasant night," said Lucius.
Now Snape knew he would be telling Dumbledore this, though even if Malfoy had not asked him these questions, the ferret would have found other methods of gathering information.
Lucius Malfoy, on the other hand, was gladdened by these facts. Petunia Evans of Cokesworth, that name, and that town were all he needed. The next day, he will contact Sentisra Parkinson. No doubt she would find something in this information.
However, little did Lucius know that someone else was listening. He did not see the rat scurry away, running to get back into his cage before the boy knew he was gone.
Sorry for the wait. I recently started my new job and had a few weddings to do.
If you are all curious as to why Ginny seems more confident, I always figured if she got to know Harry, even for a bit, she'd act cool around him. Also, if some fanfics can alter her personality to fit their bashing views, why can't I alter her personality to make her talk to Harry?
Welp, Lucius, and Umbridge are planning something, but what exactly?
As for the Dursleys, this is not the last time we see them, but it will be the last time we see them for some time. Recently re-read the books and realized they do not play a massive part in the overall story.
Yes, Dumbledore was going to tell Harry the truth about the Blood Wards and maybe other things, but he still wishes for Harry to have some childhood.
Any suggestions and comments are not only welcomed, but I very much encourage them. Until next time.
P.S. Tonks will appear soon. Okay, bye.