Chapter 7 A Different Kind of Dancing
**OO**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
**OO**
Tuesday, June 21st, leaving the Solstice Ball
The minute that Gabrielle's guard noticed they were off course, he activated her emergency portkey. Gabrielle and her nanny were safely gone. And then he loudly swore. He should have included Miss Granger! His shouting alerted the other carriage occupants that something was seriously wrong.
Harry looked to Hermione who was now wearing elbow-length opera gloves for some reason. Sirius had once told him to try not to question witches too much – easier that way.
Harry opened up an 'escape hatch' by blasting a big hole in the roof and promising himself to buy Aunt Calladora a new coach, this one was aging anyway.
The driver looked over at the new gaping hole, and leaned down to see what was going on. Bad mistake.
Shacklebolt yelled "The driver is an imposter! Don't let him in!"
Hermione, clearly aware there was something off, jumped to stand on the bench seat and punched the man with all of her strength, causing him to tumble off the carriage.
The carriage lurched, and she lost her balance, causing her to land on the padded bench with a squeak.
That seemed to be a signal for several riders to show up on either side of the carriage, mounted on black horses, and trying to take control of the conveyance.
No one was casting spells yet, but that could change at any moment.
Padfoot, in his Grim form, jumped to the roof through the hole. Harry right on his tail.
Shacklebolt took the left window, Tonks the right, and the Delacour man was at the rear all firing stunning spells - they wanted them alive to answer tough questions. After all, the ones hit were having a tough landing.
Harry Potter loved to fly, and loved magical creatures. The horses weren't regular horses – they were Abraxans, born and bred to fly. Their wings were naturally disillusioned as part of their magic; but Harry could see them just fine.
He also knew about the harness configuration from having talked to the stable hands at Aunt Calladora's. The horse placements were side by side right now, but the lines could be staggered, allowing them to fly. And he knew how to change it! They needed to get out of here.
The aurors at the two sides were trading spellfire with a couple of people on black horses. But they were only horses. Not brooms. The Delacour security held a pendant and seemed to pray for help for a moment, but after that continued shooting spells from the rear window of the carriage.
Hermione shouted, "Harry! We're nearly to the bad side of Rue Magique! We need to get out of here!"
Like Diagon Alley had Knockturn, Rue Magique had the Street of Thieves. That was no place for her or Harry!
Padfoot leapt into action, landing on the back of first the rear right horse, then leaping to the lead right horse changing back to human form as he landed on the lead mare's back.
Harry watched his dogfather and followed his motions, only going left. Sirius was releasing certain straps from the harness with his wand. Oh! Harry saw what he was doing and started to help.
"We need to free the binding on the harness! We need to fly!"
As Harry landed on the left lead and began aiming his wand at the bindings, he suddenly pictured Hermione's single punch knockout to the driver: Wow! She was some witch! And she was HIS. He wanted to kiss her desperately at that moment, but he needed to focus.
They weren't out of danger yet, as more attackers seemed to pour like rats out of the alleys to either side. His amusement was short lived as, apparently at some earlier signal, several more strangers attempted to stop and/or board the still moving conveyance!
The aurors behind him continued to fight, but the coach was too vulnerable, and Padfoot hadn't had a chance to teach him HOW to make portkeys yet.
Shacklebolt and Tonks were still exchanging spell fire as the coach was now veering off course from what the attackers wanted, but wasn't going in the right direction either.
Looking back, Harry noticed that Hermione had managed to regain her footing and was trying to pull herself through the roof 'ventilation'! Panic seized him. Calling back to the young witch, "We need to fly! Hermione! Get back in!" Harry shouted.
"No! Let me out! Let me…"
But it was too late. Between them, Harry and Sirius were now steering the coach by riding the flying horses.
She again fell from her perch, landing with a bounce followed by another squeak, and they were airborne!
The lights of Paris were beautiful, but this was not the gentle romantic ride home that she and Harry had planned after sharing their first kisses.
Knowing she would be questioned, she scrambled up and into her bag for her handkerchief, putting the 'device' away carefully, but still wearing her gloves in case Tonks noticed.
Harry, who'd only flown twice on a hippogriff, had never been on a horse in his life, much less a winged horse, turned to his godfather for guidance. Sirius seemed if not 'comfortable' on his mount, at least appeared competent, so Harry gladly followed his lead and relaxed slightly allowing him to think.
His panic suddenly returned as he yelled to his godfather, "Padfoot! We have to get down! We're breaking the Statute!"
To his great consternation, Sirius turned to him and calmly asked him, "Have you ever seen, read, or heard of a report of the appearance of a flying horse or horses? Anywhere? Ever?" At Harry's silent shake of his head, the animagus continued, "And you never will! Abraxans, pegasii, thestrals, and other breeds of winged horses have an inbuilt camouflage and thankfully for us, that ability extends to whatever they're hauling! Ask Minister Delacour sometime, about their Abraxan-drawn carriage that Beauxbatons use for 'field trips'! Even so, you're right; we do need to land." Looking down he groaned, "We've overshot Aunt Calladora's house!"
With Harry watching him intently, Sirius directed his horse downward and Harry heard more than felt the clop-clop of hooves striking pavement and then a jolt as gravity settled the horses and the carriage behind onto solid ground.
Checking quickly, as it appeared they'd lost their pursuers, Sirius pulled out his mirror and used it to call Minister Delacour.
While he was talking, two groups joined them. One was made up of French aurors; the other was a small battalion of liveried bodyguards. The French aurors split up; a pair going to the carriage house, and another pair going to the front door.
"When Miss Gabrielle returned home with her minder, she let us know that you were in danger. Good work there, Tomas, aurors. There was at least one attacker captured alive, so that we can gain information."
Kingsley shook his head, "It will be like last time. A low level thug promised a high level reward. We should have known. The security at the palace was top notch. The vulnerability was always the coach."
Lord Black addressed the French Auror 'lead', "You have me at a loss, Sir. Lord Black and my Heir, Harry Potter." He said with a jaunty wave from atop his mount. Harry gave a weak wave as he looked around trying to figure out how to dismount without breaking his leg!
"Captain Pierre Martín, pleasure to meet you. Well done, all of you, in participating in your own rescue. We hear that the British are sometimes reluctant to use their batons, their wands to aid themselves."
Sirius dismounted as Tonks solved Harry's dilemma by floating the lad up and off.
The Abraxan he'd been riding appreciated his loving pat, and snorted sweet smelling breath into his hand. "Thank you. That was amazing. I'd like to do it again, you know, when our lives aren't in danger." The horse snorted in agreement and mouthed Harry's hair good-naturedly.
"You're only doing that because it looks like a haystack." Harry teased.
The beast's nicker sounded like chuckling to Harry.
Jean-Claude apparated in just then with another pair of dangerous-looking people, as the aurors came out of the carriage house.
"The two footmen are indeed alive, and were left behind. They had an alarm set to wake them to escort Madame Black and her party later. With the security that had accompanied Heir Black, and them so old, they didn't feel it was necessary to go at this time."
No one knew where the driver was, but he was likely stunned and near the palace. Tonks' reasoning was a bit grim, "If they had killed him, they couldn't use his hair for polyjuice."
Harry ran around to the coach. A very grumpy looking Hermione, her hair mussed and her cheeks flushed had her arms crossed and eyes closed.
"We're here, my lady. Thank you?" Harry said more as a question, "May I help you out?"
"I didn't know they were flying animals! I. Don't. Like. Flying."
Harry gathered her up for a warm hug. "Maybe not, but you were brilliant."
In the meantime, Sirius spoke to the Minister, "Jean-Claude, I hate to ask, but is there any way we can possibly keep this incident from the press? It's not for me alone, but Harry hates his fame and the British press would more than likely make it ugly for him."
Clapping Sirius on the shoulder, Jean-Claude winked conspiratorially at the man and said, reassuringly, "Leave it to me!"
**OO**
Kingsley must have been using Aunt Calladora's crystal orb. The captured thugs, one of whom needed several potions to restore his broken face, knew nothing of value. Falling off the coach while on the ground wouldn't have caused all the damage – the coach must have been airborne when he fell.
Except that he knew that it wasn't. The word spread. Hermione Granger was a dangerous, dangerous target. By herself, she could take out dozens of attackers.
After that last contract, no one in the Rue de Voleurs would touch anything that had her or her boyfriend Harry Potter's name on it.
And the name Malfoy was now truly 'bad-faith' with the goblins in France. Lucius Malfoy would lose his head should he ever visit Gringotts Paris again, and unlike Britain, the goblins were listened to when they complained about the theft of gold done in an exchange.
Good nostros for bad leprechaun gold.
**OO**
"Madam Longbottom! Mr Weasley! How fortuitous. Two of the people that I hoped to see tonight."
"Albus" Augusta greeted with a regal nod, sans smile.
"Headmaster." Percy did a good imitation regal nod. In a much colder voice, tamping down the rage he felt at this man's betrayal. After all, Dumbledore was the one who had gotten Penny her first "job" in the Ministry. "Allow me to introduce the friends I'm staying with. Madam Black and Miss Black. Ladies, this is Headmaster Dumbledore. I could list more titles, but is that necessary?"
Dumbledore noted the house ring, the expensive engagement ring, and quickly added two and two to get seven. Percival was told to marry a pureblood girl. So, if he couldn't have love, he could at least have money.
The man bit his tongue to stop expressing his disappointment. However, his disapproval was apparent with his next statement.
"I hear that you will be joining us in the Wizengamot." Dumbledore stated flatly. His moue of disapprobation was clear.
"Which is why I asked my friend to meet us." Aunt Calladora informed brightly, "Madam Longbottom has fought the good fight since before you were granted a seat in that legislative body. Who better to mentor young Mr Weasley here? Not that his father hasn't prepared him."
Dumbledore winced. Augusta was definitely against the Dark, but she was not a member of the Order of the Phoenix, and with the living death of her only son, she likely never would be!
She was a moderate, and would happily rail against any pro-Dark dogma. Just as hard as she was anti-progressive.
Arthur's agenda was rather too pro-muggle for most of the wizards and witches there. What would this boy's view be? He was certainly a stickler for the rules at school. But what new rules would he support?
"Good luck to you. Remember, I am always available for advice should you desire it, my boy. I'm very proud of you, young Percival. Very proud." The elder statesman murmured disingenuously as he patted Percy's shoulder.
"Thank you, sir. If you will excuse us, I need to let some others know of our good news." With that, Percy escorted his bride-to-be to the buffet tables to chat with new friends, and grab needed refreshments.
Augusta had lived her life by a code, and sometimes that code had her act in a way contrary to her personal desires. At least, this time, it should be short and less bloody than the last battle she had been in. There were no medals, honors, or accolades for this next trial.
Madame Longbottom claimed Dumbledore's arm. "Will you please take me for a short spin on the floor? I want to share some interesting news about one of your students with you."
Hermione Granger's bravery was already old news. But the Headmaster was successfully distracted, and would be more concerned with the change in the Wizengamot and the change in young Draco's status.
Lord Black considered Narcissa and Draco as 'not conforming to family standards' so they would not receive their monthly stipend. Worse, the two Blacks by blood and magic were on the verge of being expelled from the family for cause - something that couldn't be refuted by anyone of this generation. It would be nigh impossible to be reinstated from such. Dumbledore hadn't heard that Black had hired a solicitor to prepare the Notice of Intent to Sever as of yet. But, only ninety days to repent wasn't long enough for a witch like Narcissa. This was a situation fraught with danger!
Even Andromeda Black hadn't been Expelled for Cause. Marrying a muggleborn was fine. Even if she had married a muggle, it wasn't enough. Look at Eileen Prince! She had not been Expelled for Cause. Albus made a mental note to look for a powerless pureblood related in some way to take the Prince seat before Snape found out about it.
He'd ask Moody about it before he arrived at school. His pet spy had files on everyone.
Right now, the Potions Master thought his mother had been disowned. As if. Marrying a muggle wasn't enough. Not for magic to accept a magical disenfranchisement.
No, it had to be something that was contrary to magic itself. And serving the Dark Lord, doing dark magic, supporting murder of anyone, magical or not, was clearly a violation of the highest order - anathema to magic, as even the poorest muggle had a spark of it.
If Narcissa upset whoever this new Lord was, she would be fully disowned, not only losing Family Magic, but also be subject to having her dowry reclaimed. This would make the Malfoy family nearly homeless and very nearly knutless as much of the Malfoy lands had been turned over to House Black as part of the marriage agreement. And the fine manor would be reattached to the spread of Blackmoor Hall. Most of that family's wealth was formerly and currently dependent upon the Black Stipend.
Dumbledore was concerned, as that sort of action could lead to violence. The grumblings and signs of Voldemort's imminent return had the ancient man planning.
No one was telling him that Harry was wearing the Heir ring. Not yet at least.
It was almost as if the boy had asked people to not mention him being there!
**OO**
The Abraxans were unharnessed and back in their stalls after a nice cool walkdown. Relaxed after a rubdown, abbreviated brushing, and the offering of a feedbag to each of the beauties. The groomsmen gave Harry a small handful of pitted Mirabelles to give them as a treat.
The groomsmen had gone back to their game; if the coach could be repaired, they would hitch up the horses again in a bit.
Harry Potter and Sirius Black were finally alone. Hermione had been asked questions, her wand checked, and she had wished them all good-night before retiring to read in the library for a bit.
She seemed to mostly have forgiven them about the flying part of the night. But there was still some frost in her manner, and hopes of a goodnight kiss had evaporated.
Harry was looking at the ruined coach. Most of the splinters had fallen back into the interior. The black shiny conveyance was a thing of beauty. Shame about the roof.
"You were brilliant, you know. Reacting like that." Sirius shared. "And the flying! I knew you could fly a hippogriff. You're a natural!"
Harry's wand was busy, not realizing that he was casting as he spoke. "You too. You're brilliant. It's great to see you, you know, where we can talk."
"And not have three thousand people listening in or trying to? Yeah."
His wand was busy as well. Harry's intent was to get the coach functional so they could use it to pick up Aunt Calladora. The attackers wouldn't be stupid enough to try and kidnap her!
Another batch of splintered wood flew back into place as their wands danced.
"Look, Harry. Remus is trying very hard to get Blackmoor Hall into shape. When it's done, ready, well, at least safe, I'd like. I mean, I likely can't stay all summer, but I'd like to come and visit. You know, stay together, that is."
"You really meant it? You do want me to live with you?" Harry turned away briefly and Sirius heard a small sniffle and saw his handkerchief flurry for a moment.
Sirius reached out and placed a tentative hand on Harry's shoulder, until the boy turned back around to face him.
Harry surprised him though, and flung his arms around the older man, burying his face in the man's formal robes! All Sirius could hear for a moment were muffled but fervent 'thank you's'!
Finally, slightly embarrassed for his loss of control, Harry pulled back wiping his face and turned back towards the carriage and continued casting and listening to the older man speak.
"You're family! I never should have…I made mistakes. And there are things that I need to tell you that I don't know how to. Painful things about the past. Some of these things I don't understand myself, you see."
Harry nodded, showing he was listening, even as a bigger chunk of roof went back into place.
Lord Black was in a mood as dark as his name, Harry could tell. After the attack, he just had to explain some of the reasons to the boy. He needed to know the very real danger out there!
"It's so bizarre how similar we are. I was raised by abusive, awful people. I am actually getting help, therapy, about my younger years. Then, for a brief shining time, I had a real family. The Potters took me in when I was your age. They loved me, cared for me. I loved them. We were happy.
"Until the Death Eaters came, not only killing Charlus and Dorea, but destroying the home that I had there. Lily was pregnant with you. She and James escaped that time because of living in the cottage at Godric's Hollow."
Should he reveal what happened? He had to do it some time. What if those thugs were after the same thing? Ignorance might be bliss, but the lad needed the truth to stay safe. Safer.
"Look Harry. This isn't right that you're hearing this tonight. I wanted to wait until a better time. But you need to know. They didn't just kill Charlus straight out. They tortured my surrogate father. Tortured him to try and get him to tell where some device was that he had been looking for all his life.
"He apparently told them about his books and notes, his research under veritaserum. But when that didn't work, they thought he had beaten the truth drug, and came after him with a more brutal method."
Sirius turned away to wipe tears, Harry patted his arm awkwardly. This was grim news, but why was he being told this now? There had to be a reason!
The coach was now fully together, but their wands were still dancing, magic flowing.
"Harry. I am very worried that the same faction that was looking for whatever was his obsession will now be coming after you. Not that you actually have this 'holy grail'. I don't even know what it was exactly!
"When I was in Gringotts, I took up a second ring. One that I was allowed as a member of House Potter. The Regent ring for the House of Potter. Your Regent. No one knows it's me. Only that there is one. That is why Elphias Doge was so upset. And yes, I approve of using our Deputy Steward to vote the seat, but I digress.
"While I was there, I went looking, just in case the elves had saved anything from the house. And they had.
"Harry, one of the trunks is full of notes and such on whatever Charlus Potter was looking for, but they're in some kind of code!
"I'm glad that you're taking Runes and Arithmancy. Maybe together, we can solve this. Figure out what they were trying to find."
Harry smiled, "Sounds like an interesting mystery. And I will help you with it, but I want to focus at first on translating that healing book."
"Of course! Of course! I just meant, well. I thought it might be good to work on it together. To have a project, a goal."
Harry interjected, "Besides making the house a safe place from doxies, dust bunnies, and other destructive creatures?"
Sirius gave Harry a real smile, "Yes! But soon. Moony had a very willing and happy crew out yesterday. They apparently made great progress."
They finally noticed that the coach was not only repaired, but back to looking like the craftsmen who made it just finished.
The wizards looked at the coach and at each other and laughed and hugged. Family. It was a dream come true for Harry.
"Harry, about your Potter vault. I found out something else, something that would help more people like Penny. You and I both know that Britain right now is rotten to the core. If we ever have a hope to enjoy nights like last night at home, it has to change. And an influx of good people, people dedicated to the Light is just what it needs. I have an idea." His grin was pure Marauder.
Harry smirked. "You want to prank the entire country? We're going to need some help."
Sirius nodded, "Let's have a family meeting tomorrow at breakfast. You, me, your brilliant brunette, and all of the smart people staying here."
Harry hugged him again. Family, and helping others. This wizard understood deeply what Harry wanted, and now Harry wanted to help his godfather even more.
When the time came to prepare the coach to pick up Madame Black, the staff were astonished that Lord Black had managed to buy a new carriage so quickly.
They had never seen the old thing when it was new, after all, and with the blue and gold upholstery back to its original bright colors, it didn't look the same at all. This 'new' one was already polished to a high gloss, even! Wow!
**OO**
Tuesday, June 21, Back to the Solstice Ball
Dumbledore finally saw his chance, and asked for a private word with the Weasley boy. He might work in the International Relations office, but the child was making a mistake. A huge mistake!
"Percy, my boy. First off, I want to say that while I understand why you broke off with Miss Clearwater, I do believe that you are jumping while your heart is still hurting. The Black Family! So dark! So dangerous. And you know that our relations with the French aren't always the best. You think that you are making a smart match just because she shares the same first name. But you are making a huge mistake!
"While it is not wise to mix your very clear pureblood line with a muggleborn, neither is it right to risk the Black madness coming into your house!"
Percy stood there, poleaxed, while Dumbledore spewed this vitriol all over him.
Clearly the man should not have taken a fourth glass of wine. Veritas indeed.
"Headmaster. Your advice will be considered, and while I appreciate your time spent with me, I do wish that my dear Grandmother Cedrella was still with us to consult with her about such things.
"You knew her, sir, didn't you? What advice would she give me? What do you think she would say about the Black family? Or marrying into it?"
Dumbledore looked at the nearly finished glass of fine champagne in his hand as though it betrayed him.
"I wish you everything you deserve, my boy. Everything." Albus tried to stalk off, but stumbled not a step away.
Percy reached out on instinct to catch the man, but the elder statesman pulled his arm out from Percy's grasp without a kind word, and went to find other bigots to talk who were not here to dance or social with others, but were here for the same reasons as Dumbledore was.
Information.
**OO**
The Delacour coach was surrounded by mounted aurors and other security, but when the Black carriage arrived, it had just as much if not more.
"Oh! Splendid!" Madame Black had been told that her carriage had been destroyed, but somehow, Lord Black had obtained a replacement.
No one would believe Harry that they just fixed it. It wasn't possible!
Finding Harry and Lord Black in the carriage was no surprise, nor were the aurors.
"Where is Miss Granger?" Aunt Calladora asked.
Harry winced. "She is now afraid of coaches, ma'am. She was brilliant! She really was. But she would rather walk next time."
Aunt Calladora smirked, well, they could always hire a normal coach next time! "There are horses available in Paris should we need them. Or use public magical transportation. They do not fly."
"Try telling that to Hermione! She's going to have nightmares, I'm sure." Harry stated, then thought to himself. 'So is the guy she hit. That was one wicked punch.'
**OO**
Wednesday, June 22nd
Barty Jr really, really didn't like his father. Didn't like how he treated his mother or him. That was at least one of the reasons he'd joined the Death Eaters. But not the only one.
He loved all of the 'party activities' that the Dark Lord loved to watch.
Sending him to work, the day AFTER the French ball that he had not attended, but that Percy Weasley had, (the Prat); appearing drunk and disorderly would definitely enhance his Pater's reputation.
Well, enhance it in the negative direction that he wanted it to go.
Barty Crouch went to work smelling of cheap firewhiskey, wearing a set of stained dress robes that smelled like they had been unwashed for weeks, and sported a ladies garter hanging out of his pocket.
Director Crouch seemed unable to notice his current state of dishevelment.
The day did not go well for him.
Crouch was called to Fudge's office, as the assistant had a late start that day, as planned. Barty was sent home in disgrace, and told that if he ever showed up for work like that again, Fudge would have to take steps!
Barty Jr met his father at the floo and gloated, removing the cantrips that prevented Sr from seeing himself.
The Death Eater reveled in the pain he caused, and the physical torture hadn't begun.
Not yet at least!
**OO**
Wednesday, June 22nd, Chateau Lumiere
Hermione came down the stairs, her hair still in soft curls from the treatment the day before. She was sporting the latest in pureblood casual fashion. It was just one of many outfits that Appoline had filled her trunk with the previous weekend.
She greeted Harry warmly, all frost from the night before completely gone with the morning light.
Harry and Percy were already at the table talking with the matron of the family when Hermione arrived. Both boys stood at the young witch's entrance.
A large black dog came bounding in for a moment, stopping by Harry's chair for pets. Harry pushed him away laughing as he was given a very sloppy, wet, doggy kiss.
"Padfoot! Bad! Bad dog!"
Percy was poleaxed for a moment, thinking he had seen a grim, but the dog was quickly gone, chased out by Baxter, the elderly house-elf that had more ear hair than head hair.
"Can you please make sure that Heir Black's dog gets a visit to the Scamander's soon? I think that the grandson is practicing veterinary medicine and can arrange to have him neutered." Aunt Calladora stated, hiding her smile.
Harry barked a laugh, and went to save his dogfather, but Lord Black came down the stairs just then.
"Don't worry Harry. I'll rescue your pet from any such mutilation."
Hermione noticed who else was seated at the extra long dining table. Aunt Calladora was at its head, with Harry and Neville on one side at her right. Across from them were Tonks and Auror Shacklebolt. His deep and gentle laugh had drawn her eye.
They were clearly included in the laughter. Tonks as blood family - Shacklebolt as a comrade in arms. Lovely people they were getting to know. And trust.
Hermione had been offered membership in the House for saving Sirius Black from the dementors several weeks back.
She had declined the honor as it smacked too much of becoming Harry's cousin or something (eww). Sirius did make financial arrangements with her parents. Emma had access to a small vault that would pay for school and an apprenticeship or three. But Calladora Black was very happy with the addition of Penny to the family and thought Hermione would be joining the group as well. Just later and via a different method.
Aunt Calladora didn't care two dirigible plums about either girl's parents. Well… That wasn't exactly true. She was very impressed that Hermione's parents were healers that helped people without magic.
Augusta Longbottom joined them, Harry pulled out her chair, as Percy and Neville stood. She was still in widow's weeds, wearing a black day dress in the same style as Aunt Calladora's own, but his great aunt was in peach today.
Percy shared a little smugly, "Oh, you missed Dumbledore warning me off marrying into the Black family. He rather missed out on the fact that I am already IN the Black family. He didn't enjoy the reminder."
Penny was the last one down. She had had difficulty getting to sleep. The wizards again stood, and Percy kissed her hand in greeting.
"What a whirlwind! I went from Head Girl to graduating and having no decent job prospects to being asked on holiday by the French Minister of Magic."
"And next month we get to host them in your family's box at the Quidditch World Cup. At least they already have a nice wizard's tent. Trying to get one now would be difficult." Percy shared.
Hermione shyly smiled at Harry. "It was nice seeing the Delacours again."
Now that Penny was here, it was time to start. This was important to House Black and other dying Houses.
Lord Black cleared his throat. "I will try to make this brief, but Kingsley has accepted the position as Head of Security for House Black. Miss Tonks will act as his deputy. We were attacked again last night, but I doubt that they will dare try another one. Still. The House is about to sponsor a bold plan. One that I want to present to everyone here. I need to keep Arthur Weasley out of it right now as it could compromise his position at the Ministry. Both Shacklebolt and Tonks are not as vulnerable, but if they ever do have need, they will already have full time positions within the House."
All of the young people were hanging on every word, the two matrons smirking. Calladora may have said something in advance to Augusta. The two were planning on spending time in the Longbottom library later today or tomorrow for certain doing research for this project.
Lord Black and Harry shared a look before the older looking man continued, "The problem is genetics, and the lack of diversity in the current makeup of British purebloods. I know that I would not marry a British witch. Here is my idea to help the issue."
What followed was a brief discussion, with the goals laid out to help others like Penny find not only acceptance, but give them a start at a full life in the wizarding world. The only condition placed upon those to be helped, would be an oath on Magic similar to the House oath. No dark magic, no killing innocents, no attacking others unless in self-defense, etc.
Sirius didn't want anyone benefiting that was secretly a Death Eater in disguise.
Harry had a few moments of panic as details came out, but Aunt Calladora helped by ordering a full breakfast served and the party atmosphere from before returned with a will.
The last item of business was Sirius informing everyone about Penny's status as legal guardian for Harry Potter as registered in France.
Knowing that Penny had accepted the role as Harry's guardian, registered in the muggle world and France, and that she planned on living with Harry anytime he wasn't in Hogwarts had given the boy yet another person to consider part of his true family.
**OO**
A bit of news from MMI6…
Unbeknownst to Dan and Emma Granger, their latest report on Sirius Black was not kept as confidential as it should have been.
An agent planted within MMI6 was concerned with the contents of that report. One of the few active agents raised in the magical world that worked for the government; he thought the world of Dumbledore. And it was to the great wizard that he came with the report.
Dumbledore shared,, "Clearly, the agents, as mere muggles, were bespelled to write this. I think that you know what is best for our world when criminals escape."
"But he was at Hogwarts! He had been captured by Snape hisself." the man stated, dropping into the familiar jargon of his outer world persona.
Aye, and there was the rub. If Dumbledore allowed the wizard to be Kissed, while at Hogwarts and knowing he was innocent, the castle itself would be…peeved. Not to mention losing the binding on his phoenix. There was also Harry to consider should he find out the truth. This way, it appeared that Dumbledore was helping while keeping the animagus far away from his pawn.
Albus shared, "Fudge had the audacity to bring a dementor into a school full of young people. If his undersecretary had lost control of that thing, it would have been a disaster. As it was, it was clearly anxious to find Black, and ignored the students. After seeing Black was gone, I thought it was going to turn on them. How they left the room alive, Fudge and Umbridge, I do not know."
"And wouldn't that have been a shame." The agent chuckled. "Best leave this here." He set the report down on the man's large desk.
The man turned, and never heard the spell to change his memories to just a pleasant visit with his administrator.
In that action, the old man had messed up.
Obliviation left detectable results. And the traitorous agent would be discovered within MMI6. And not eliminated, but… manipulated.
Fair since he clearly reported to the master manipulator in Britain.
**OO**
Wednesday, June 22nd, Chateau Lumiere
Neville was coming out of his shell a bit. He had very much enjoyed dancing last night, and he was looking forward to seeing Fleur again, "Did you know that the garden where Fleur lives has night-blooming organias? Very rare. She has invited us to join you when you come to visit. I am glad that you are already going or it wouldn't be proper for me to go."
Harry smiled. "And you want to visit the flowers there, right?" Hermione got his joke, though it eluded Neville. "The Delacours invited us all to go on holiday to visit them sometime before school starts. That's nice of them. I think Moody is planning on moving to Hogwarts just before the full moon. I think he said August 18th. Something about the wards? I really should have paid more attention. It's great that the Delacours are inviting us then, as we couldn't do lessons with Moody anyway. "
"Neville has enjoyed potions ever so much. He didn't want to intrude before the World Cup, but do you think that it would be alright for him to join you afterwards for your defense lessons? Master Auror Moody taught new recruits for years, including my Frank, Neville's father. It would be such an honor."
Harry turned to Neville. He had already offered lessons, and Neville said that his gran said no. Oh. This was interesting. The boy reddened a bit, clearly caught in a fib, and was worried how Harry would handle this.
"Neville, did you know that magical plants are attracted to magical people, and will appear even in muggle areas? Even if you aren't interested in training the full way that Hermione and I have been doing, it would be great if you could come and remove all of the magical plants. You know, before the muggle postman gets attacked by a strangle vine, or bitten by a teething tentacula. It would be embarrassing for a Master Auror to be arrested for muggle-baiting. Especially since he has no such intentions!"
Neville smiled shyly, happy that Harry hadn't exposed him. "That sounds great, Harry. And I really should practice DADA. It's just that compared to you and Hermione, I just don't cast very well."
Auror Tonks was one of those that could detect magical power. While not the powerhouse that Harry or Hermione were, Neville was no squib!
"Have you had your wand weighed recently? All aurors have a thorough checkup every three months. We have to."
Neville blushed, and looked down. Augusta answered for him.
Augusta's mein changed dramatically. She spat out forcefully. "Nonsense. My Frank's wand ISN'T the problem!"
Everyone was taken aback for the moment, when the lady shook her head, and sipped tea as though she had lost her train of thought.
Uh, oh. Auror Tonks and Auror Shacklebolt shared that look. The one that Harry had seen before, when the wizard took Harry aside to ask him about his homelife. They were concerned about something!
Was Neville abused? His gran seemed strict, but Harry didn't know that the aurors considered people, with means, who gave their children a purposefully "unmatched" wand, for whatever reason, to be child abusers.
Tonks was trying to be very casual right now, and make plans to get Neville away from his gran for questioning.
"You're going to the World Cup? The family box? I know that Lord Black invited all of the family. Just think, Percy, with you marrying Miss Black, your family will be restored to House Black." Auror Tonks gushed.
The aurors were clearly trying to get the focus off Neville.
Hermione felt it, and chimed in. "The Delacours are truly kind people. They have a lovely home. We met at Xanadu's private beach. Apparently they go there too from time to time. I was sent an invitation to go to it from Lord Black. Sir, thank you so much for that. Do you think that we could all go again while staying with the Delacours?"
Sirius paled. "I will uh, have to check with my Steward, Miss Granger. My memory isn't what it should be. But I don't remember asking him to send you that. How did you receive the talisman?"
"By post owl. I'm sure I still have it at home, but the letter claimed it was for a one-time use."
"Oh, Xanadu. I wonder what kind of talismans they use? I am an enchanter you know. After breakfast, let's look into that. We'll send an elf to your parents. You are still planning on returning to the Weasleys, later today?" Lord Black inquired.
Hermione affirmed an uh-huh and a nod through her toast.
Aunt Calladora caught on that something was amiss here, or maybe a couple of somethings. "Miss Black and I have an appointment in Britain tomorrow. Mr Weasley's family has offered to host me while we are there."
Aunt Calladora turned to the Heir, "Harry, did you and Arthur pick up that tent you wanted? I do believe that Baxter found the old Black tent that the family used to camp in. He's going to take it to the Weasleys. It should be a lot of fun for us to set up. I enjoyed doing so as a girl. It's been in stasis, but you really should check it out before deciding to take it to the game." She added as a small addendum. "Black family, you know. Percy, perhaps your older brother could look at it? You know, first, before the children go in.
"It gives me a chance to air out the family tent and make sure there are no doxies in it. Besides, I've been informed that Harry was looking for a tent. You are welcome to borrow it during your stay at the Weasleys. Plenty of room for you and your friends." Calladora offered.
"Me! I'd be happy to stay in it with Harry as well." Percy offered happily.
"You just want to get away from the twins' pranks."
"And who was purple all day the other day?" Percy prompted.
"Touche. We both do. Thank you, ma'am. I accept your kind offer." Harry nodded.
"As for my older brother checking the tent, are you worried about a dragon infestation perhaps?" Percy tamped down his smile. He rarely had a chance to show that he could be humorous.
Penny lightly hit his arm. "She meant Bill, you prat. As you well know."
Harry winced. "Well, I don't have one yet. I'm waiting for after the game to get one for school. I want my own potions lab to brew ahead of the assignments."
"Nonsense! Once it's been checked, consider the tent yours, Harry. It would be good to see it be used again. They last forever." Aunt Calladora offered with Lord Black's nod of approval.
"Professor Slughorn has offered to tutor me and a few friends at school. It would give us a portable lab that was secure."
Penny laughed softly. "He just wants it known that he helped teach Fred and George so that when those two are famous, he can do that soft brag of his about teaching them when they were still in school."
"Do you think that Fleur would like them? The twins? You know, as friends. They are only a year younger." Percy asked.
He thought that Fred and George could use a bit of polish. She had a special presence about her, and it had nothing to do with her heritage. What better way to re-enforce a few manners than being around a beautiful witch that could cut you off at the knees for any impropriety?
Neville spoke up, the Gryffindor coming out in him, "I don't think that would be a good idea. She's something special. The twins and her? No, she needs a gentleman, someone grounded."
Aunt Calladora and Augusta shared raised eyebrows, but said nothing. Fleur was well connected, well spoken and certainly an appropriate match. And as Lord Black had previously pointed out, not related to Neville seventeen different ways. Hmm.
Before Percy could interject his thoughts on why he thought it was a good idea for the twins to meet Fleur, the matron was speaking.
Aunt Calladora continued, "I do hope the Delacours are coming to the World Cup? It's been so very nice to get to know them better. I have truly only seen them from a distance. Lovely couple. So kind of them to invite you all. August is often used for holidays for families in France."
"I think they want to make sure we all become friends before September first. Fleur has been lonely in school." Penny shared. She and Percy had also been invited during the aforementioned time, though she likely couldn't stay the whole time.
Harry squeezed Hermione's hand as he turned to Madam Longbottom. "You and Neville are going to be joining us at the World Cup, yes?"
"Yes. He didn't want to come for last night's soiree. The British crowd is far less friendly. I am glad you talked him into it. It was a good opportunity for him to socialize. I loved the atmosphere last night. Elegant but relaxed." Augusta smiled.
Neville blushed and nodded. "I did have fun last night. Lots of nice witches at Beauxbatons. And I really like Fleur. Growing up interacting with people like Heir Malfoy, Heir Nott, and Heir Pucey left a rather unpleasant taste. That's what made me not want to go."
"Perhaps we can change that over the next few years at home. Now that we have a pattern of what such things can be." Augusta suggested.
Penny and Hermione shared a conspiratorial look. Percy, Neville and Harry exchanged nods.
"Yes ma'am!" The boys said together.
The Monde du Jour newspaper arrived. Unsurprisingly, it had pictures of the ball from the night before, commentary on the beautiful witches, the strange robes from a certain elder statesman, and shared the news that Miss Black was now engaged to be married to a British wizard.
Percy and Penny's engagement picture was perfect, and they would be requesting copies from the photographer.
This should be enough for Percy to be accepted at work. Especially when they found out who some of Miss Black's friends were!
**OO**
After sending the teens to pack, the adults broke off into little groups.
Shacklebolt managed to get some time with just Neville to ask questions about his home life. Augusta was a dragonlady of the old guard no doubt, but other than 'scaring the magic out of him' which could have been a disaster, he seemed well enough. That wand though. He'd take the boy himself for a new one in honor of the Longbottoms. They were aurors who had fought, side by side, with his brother back in the day. Who was to say that Frank hadn't burnt it out in that last battle?
Aurors had to replace wands all the time.
Sirius sent an urgent message to Remus, and really wasn't surprised by the results.
Hermione had indeed been sent a letter from 'Lord Black'. Lots of flowery prose, but the middle had the meat of it.
'You are a true Gyffindor, my dear. Without your bravery, I would have never seen the sun rise again. You and Harry saved me from a terrible death.
I might have to live away from my godson for the rest of my life, but at least I got the chance to meet the girl that meant most to Harry. You, Miss Granger.
At the moment, at least.'
Tears had dripped onto the original letter at that point. 'How cruel could you get to a teenage girl! But Hermione didn't know Sirius well enough to know that he wouldn't say this. Never say this.
The talisman itself was useless for diagnostics. Hermione said that both aurors and Delacour security had cast at it, verifying that it was a valid passkey for the private beach. It was, but the provenance had been obliterated.
The letter had too many private details. Details that only Harry, Hermione, Remus and himself knew. Wait! One other.
Dumbledore.
But why would Dumbledore try to send Hermione to a private beach? It made no sense. Wasn't Gabrielle the target?
Sirius needed to talk to Moody, or have Remus do so. But it would involve sharing too many secrets. Bah!
Sirius didn't want to go back to prison. Or worse, have his soul sucked out.
Sirius looked at the letter, careful not to touch it too much. He needed to send it on to Remus. The warder for the house here in Paris was a very paranoid person, so Remus, even when he wasn't actively Moony, wasn't allowed in the door.
If he tried to force his way, his head would join a few hunting trophies on the wall. Not something that anyone wanted.
Sirius made a copy of the letter, kicking himself for not doing so earlier. He sent both the talisman and original back to Remus to see what his nose could detect.
**OO**
The teens were packed and ready to go. Sirius looked at Harry and Hermione holding hands, laughing.
Was Hermione still in danger? If so, why had she been targeted? Because she helped him? Did it have to do with Harry himself?
Sirius and Harry shared a warm hug in farewell before the animagus whispered in his ear. "I promise I will visit you soon, but it's just too dangerous for me to live there as yet."
Harry nodded in understanding, but looked forward to the day when they could live together.
Sirius had a cold chill run down his back. In knowing those two, Harry and Hermione, did this latest attack get set up this way in order for Harry to get involved? For him to rescue the maiden he loved?
All of it made Sirius very, very edgy. And determined to help both his godson and future bride if Aunt Calladora's crystal ball was accurate.
It usually was.
**OO**
The Burrow, Wednesday, June 22nd
It was surprisingly easy for Lord Black to arrange for Bill Weasley to be hired for warding duty. Far too easy. And the cost was measured not in gold but in snake steaks, aged snake steaks.
Thankfully, Cygnus Greengrass had not yet sold anything to the bank. This was going to be fun.
The day after the ball, they returned to the Burrow en masse. Aunt Calladora, Baxter, Harry, Hermione, Aurors Tonks and Shacklebolt, Percy and Penny, Neville, and Augusta Longbottom. Molly greeted them all warmly, introducing her oldest son, the curse-breaker. A man they needed right now.
Neville stayed put, as he was invited to, with Augusta taking her leave to return home. Neville was heading to Susan's in a bit. Shacklebolt was having Neville's wand tested –today–, and getting him a matched one regardless of the results. Auror Tonks stayed put - she was on orders to stick with Harry until told to do otherwise.
She actually got paid to dance with Kingsley last night. How fun was that! She liked the tall auror with a quirky sense of humor. And he was a great dancer. She'd have done the guard duty for free!
To those present, the young auror suddenly blushed for no discernible reason.
Harry and Bill cautiously set up Aunt Calladora's tent in the back garden of the Burrow, happy there were no muggles around. It looked like a miniature castle!
Aunt Calladora had shooed all of the other children away, just in case. But the elderly witch had her wand out and was ready to lend a hand if needed. Percy insisted on helping as he didn't need to be at work until later.
Bill was definitely the right brother for the job. No dragons, but a few unhappy boggarts that were caught in the stasis field that hadn't been cleaned up.
Suddenly there was a dementor in their midst, but before either adult wizard could react, Harry was casting.
Harry surprised them all with his Patronus that didn't just banish the boggart… it obliterated it.
Bill's mouth was hanging open. Percy just patted his eldest brother's arm and stated firmly. "You should see what Mr Potter did to a hundred dementors. Totally gone. Destroyed. Dark cloaks and bits everywhere. I had to direct the house-elves for cleanup. It was a huge mess! The smell of a hundred burning cloaks. And the goo! It was awful." Percy added cheerfully.
"That Umbridge person that Charlie has complained about before? You know, when the lost Welsh Green dragon was sighted by non-magic knowing squibs and SHE had to help with the cleanup. Her solution was to have it killed outright. Monster. Good thing Charlie and his people got it out safely. She is going to be so very unhappy when the news of the dementors' demise comes out. Sadly, the report from Hogwarts never made it to the Ministry about them. Shame that. My responsibility. I must have forgotten, somehow."
Harry frowned. "Killed them? I Killed this boggart? I thought… I didn't mean to… I'm sorry?" he added in a small voice, trembling with tears.
Bill was an empathetic man for a curse-breaker. "There, there lad. You have done the world a great service if you destroyed even one dark creature. Boggarts feed off of fears. They have no good or useful purpose. Dementors are several orders of magnitude worse. You know, there are countries that would pay bounties to have you come and destroy these things for them."
Harry turned to Percy in sudden realization. "You didn't tell the Ministry what happened to the Dementors? You… You…"
"Yep, my prattish, rule-abiding Perfect Prefect protected you. The Big-Head boy himself." Bill shared, teasing Percy for last year's 'improved' badge courtesy of the twins.
Percy and Harry shared a smile. Harry didn't know about all that, and now, somehow, in a strange twist of fate, Harry had been able to pay him back by restoring Penny to him.
"Thanks, Perce. That's really, really brilliant of you. You know, I have thought of the Weasleys as family, but now, I truly feel like I have a brother." Harry shared.
Bill piped up "Brothers. I heard what you did to save Ginny, what you did for the twins, what you have done for Percy. And Mum. And you've been a good friend to Ron. That deserves a medal! All you need to do is save Dad's life, or rescue one of Charlie's dragons, and you'll have the full set."
Harry nodded, still unhappy, but feeling much better. Aunt Calladora, who was letting Bill take the lead, started clapping.
"Well done, Harry! Well done! A thousand points to Gryffindor!"
Now that the tent was checked, it was time to fly. Harry missed his friend, Ron, and despite what his brothers had just said, he liked him. He really did.
No one saw that Tonks had fallen down in shock watching him cast. She could feel magic, and this was beyond anything she had ever felt. Not even Dumbledore was so powerful.
And she had been dueling Harry over at Moody's!
**OO**
Lucius Malfoy sneered at the goblin in greeting, "Goldrub! You presume to lock down my account until I report to you like a minion. How dare you!"
The meeting was being held in what the goblins called the 'Death Eater' conference room. Plain, scarred table. Uncomfortable wooden chairs. They wanted them in and out of the bank as quickly as possible.
BloodRage was behind the account manager. His mate wanted to be there, but the wizard did not bring his mate, so had no excuse.
It wasn't custom for a male goblin warrior to take out a female. His mate had claimed the Malfoy witch's life the minute she had half a good reason.
Goldrub offered a folder of rent receipts, "I have copies for you to review. You will then be given 72 hours. If repayment of funds is not made, or a payment plan made by that time, then you will be charged with theft. The goblins hold a dim view of that, as you know."
Lucius picked up the folder contemptuously. "I thought that I was acting properly! As Regent for the House!"
Each receipt was signed by himself. Months worth, since the death of Arcturus, Lord Black. All for House Black holdings.
"No, Mr Malfoy, you, how did you put it? Ah, yes, you 'presumed"! You were not invited to the Will reading last month, which should have sent a signal to you as to the state of your son's inheritability of the House Black title! Nor did you approach Gringotts to retrieve the Regent Black signet and sign the parchmentwork to assume that title and neither did you request to be given the keys to and ask to be taken to the vaults to acquire the Heir's ring for your son!"
Ignoring the facts on offer, "I am Lord Malfoy, goblin! You will be respectful! And yes, I made a mistake. It was not theft!"
"And if you had deposited the gold into the House account, we would not be here. Do you think that I am blind? That I don't know how to read a deposit register?
"No, you hoped we wouldn't care or would roll over and allow you to commit fraud during the interim before the actual Lord Black took control or that we'd look the other way, so long as we received our percentage!"
The man spluttered. "I didn't have access to the account!"
"Neither do the people who give Mr Potter birthday and Yule gifts. Yet they are deposited. And I just explained why you should know that you didn't have legitimate access."
Potter's gifts were properly deposited now, but the goblins involved with that…diversion had been dealt with.
Mentioning the Boy-who-Lived seemed to add color to the man's cheeks.
"Surely your wife told you about meeting the Black witches and dependents held here? Your son is not the Heir to the House. You just needed to bring the gold to the counter. And now, you have 71 hours and 53 minutes to do so. Apparently your son did not go through with even one of the threats that he made that day. You know. The one where he says 'wait until my father hears about this?'"
The man's hand went to the cane that hid his wand. One moment he was sitting there by himself. The next, he had a goblin axe at his throat.
"Give me an excuse." BloodRage growled lowly.
Malfoy backed away slowly, leaving the folder on the table. Goldrub wasn't playing that game, and wandlessly floated the reciept copies into Malfoy's hands.
"You now have 71 hours and fifty minutes, Lord Malfoy."
BloodRage followed the wizard out of the door, then whispered to Spurnik, "Be aware. We may have a profit opportunity of buying fine gems soon." Glancing towards the retreating Death Eater, he stated one word, "Malfoy."
Pity that Goldrub forgot the secrecy oath on the meeting before inviting him in. Spurnik was his father-in-law and would be bound to share any profits gained by that transaction with his daughter.
BloodRage went to the front step to watch Malfoy clearly seething. He pulled his axe, hoping for battle, but the Death Eater apparated away, scowling.
**OO**
A/N: Recommended Story: Our friend odonnellzoo99 recommends Hagrid Saves the World BeepKeeper is amazing and would recommend it to anyone. The title may sound like a crack fic, but it is just such a good story.
Another recommendation is Watch by Rorschach's Blot. It is 27 chapters and about 145K words in and updating frequently. I know this may be HP fandom blasphemy, but I'd put up there with Make a Wish. It is that clever.
**OO**
ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language